Jabbering Jaime

Moving Day!

2009-02-16T18:50:00.003-05:00

I've moved blogs, I don't want to lose you so please follow me over to Gingham Skies. Same me, different location!

Here and There

2009-02-08T23:03:00.003-05:00

My attempts at keeping two blogs alive have been pathetic at best. My plan is to move everything over to Gingham Skies so be prepared to arrive here one day soon to find a big SOLD sign telling you to head on over to Gingham Skies. For the time being I'll share my posts on both blogs... saying goodbye to JJ is going to take some getting used to on my part but I figure it's a smart business move to lead people back to my biz blog. Originally I had planned to keep GS all bizzzzzzzznezzzzzz but I realize that's a silly idea considering I like to yap mostly about my life and useless other bits that make me smile and all I have to say about business is "look what a I made."

I hope you will follow me when I move!! AND I hope that you lovely lurkers will say hello... there are an awful lot of regular international visitors but I rarely hear from you. Hello? Anybody out there?

Gingham Skies New Style

2009-02-07T15:28:00.004-05:00

I'm excited to announce that I have some new vegan designs in the works. Tess will be hitting the shop today:

Anyone planning on working with vinyl? Let me save you a world of frustration: buy a teflon foot for your sewing machine!

Here's Tess in pink. This little lady will be sold in the shop at a significant discount - she was one of my first attempts at Tess therefore she has a few minor issues with less than perfect top stitching and an off-centre interior pocket.

Fab Pick of Last Week

2009-02-07T15:06:00.003-05:00

Artsy Rubbish has an array of glass mixed media mosaic tiles perfect for gift giving and they are reasonably priced to boot. There is the option to order custom tiles as well - what a lovely idea for a wedding gift!

Two Years Today

2009-02-01T16:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Anniversary Baby!

Photolicious

2009-01-29T17:18:00.005-05:00

Another fabulous new-for-me blog that I'm lovin': Color Me Katie. She creates the best photo ops, like these thought bubbles stuck on the streets of NYC.

Feelin It

2009-01-27T09:01:00.000-05:00

I don't know how you could feel anything but love towards MGMT. Jackie included them on her list of favs and seeing their name reminded me of how much I adore their music. I think it's nearly impossible to listen to these tracks and not bop your head and tap your toes. Love it!

MGMT - "Electric Feel" Music Video

What would you classify MGMT as, electro pop maybe?

Mmmm This Week

2009-01-25T22:00:00.000-05:00

Stuck to the menu once again this week, minor changes but nothing that entailed a trip to the grocery store. High five for me.

I skipped Tantalizing Tuesday this week but will try to remember to post a goodie for you this round.

Here's the menu, yum.

Monday: mini pita pizzas
Tuesday: Kim's Nana's Parmesan Chicken chicken recipe along with wee roasties - newbie
Wednesday: broccoli soup with sandwiches on fresh crusty buns - didn't bother with the soup last week so it's a newbie
Thursday: tacos
Friday: Soy Glazed Beef with Green Bean stirfry - so yum!
Saturday: Saturday: Chicken breasts with egg noodles on the side
Sunday: Anniversary dinner - order in

Glub, glub.

Sounds Like Candy

2009-01-25T10:41:00.002-05:00

Soko is simply adorable and has a voice that is so sweet your teeth are liable to ache after consumption.

Listen to her loveliness:

I found Soko thanks to Liss over at Daydream Lily, after watching the interview she posted I was smitten.

Fab Pick of Last Week

2009-01-24T09:40:00.003-05:00

These super sweet vintage zip earrings are right up my alley! I intend to break the primary school teacher trend of tacky holiday sweaters and light up snowmen earrings but still sneak in some kid friendly fashion: these are perfect, don't you think? Choosing a colour will be the difficult part, check out the selection at Amalia Versaci's shop

No Doubt About It

2009-01-23T18:16:00.001-05:00

I might be alone on this one, but this commercial kills me every time I watch it. I was starting to feel blue again today and then I went downstairs and flipped on the tv right as the... well, right as the funny part happened and out popped the belly laugh from my grumpy mug. I can't help it, the immature part of me finds this terribly funny. Enjoy!

Sew Lovely!

2009-01-22T21:00:00.006-05:00

I've found a new medium and I have fallen sew in love. My second mom suggested I create some beach bags for the summer and off I went to hunt for some water resistant material: faux leather was my fab find. I have to hit the sewing shop for some advice - sewing through a few layers of vinyl was not the easiest task so I'm curious to hear what the experts suggest: a teflon foot maybe? I managed okay but my finished edge is a bit wonky on the inside and there was a bit of a drag visible on the inside.

Vegan bags are going to be my focus this spring/summer. Here's the beach bag proto-type: vinyl inside and out for easy cleaning and to keep your goods dry. What do you think?

I wish I could find a little bit of time to sew every day, it's such a great stress reliever and helps to wash the sads away.

Is it really only January?!

2009-01-21T17:30:00.001-05:00

Originally uploaded by sharna.

PMS is a crazy thing. I spent a good chunk of last night crying my eyes out and then wilted once again today but this time it was in front of one of my professors. Nope, I wasn't in her office as one might think, I was standing at the front of the lecture room. Thankfully class was over and my back was turned to the majority of my peers. Oh the joys of hormones.

Of course she said all the right things as I blubbered my shaky embarrassed apology while wiping at the never ending stream of tears: you're tired, you're frustrated, you have a tonne on your plate etc. She then assured me that she would help me with my most major issue and suggested I not stress about handing in a proposal that's due tomorrow. Of course I will get the proposal done but at the time hearing those words was exactly what I needed.

One of my girlfriends assured me that I wasn't alone in the 'weeping in front of the prof department' - nevertheless I'm still pretty embarrassed. I need to get some sleep, wipe a few assignments off my plate, finish up the resumes and cover letters that need to be sent out and drink a glass of wine... then I'll feel much better. Ugh.

I would much prefer to drink the wine, go to bed and wake up in May. I know I'm almost there and that I'll get through it but hell, I'm allowed to have the odd self-pity day, right?!

Mmmmmusique

2009-01-20T09:40:00.001-05:00

I promised more new music and here I am just a few days later delivering, lucky you!

My fab friend Jackie is the Queen of Indie and I've asked her to send me a list of band names so that I can update my collection of tunes. She and her man Ian are always at concerts and listening to the up and coming before they rise to the top so I'll be sure to share my new finds with all of you.

Mother Mother is a band from Vancouver, British Columbia which just happens to be the home of three of my most favourite ladies (Jackie being one of them). The band isn't just fabulous by association of location, they have catchy songs that I intend to listen to over and over again. Check them out...

More Wallpaper

2009-01-19T11:45:00.004-05:00

I change my laptop's wallpaper on a regular basis; being a full-time student and a blog addict - so says Mike, therefore it must be at least a partial truth - I spend a ridiculous amount of time looking at my monitor so I like to mix things up a bit. How About Orange posted a link to PokeStudio where you can find a load of cute wallpapers. Just click on the pic you like the best and choose an appropriate size for your computer, bigger is usually better, right click and save as your desktop background. Ta da!

Keep an Eye Out for Little People

2009-01-18T11:10:00.004-05:00

"They're Not Pets, Susan" by Slinkachu

Mike sent me a link to the coolest blog; some people are just too clever. Slinkachu is an artist who places tiny people alongside other tiny bits in the city of London and then photographs them: little people in a big world. The shots above are found on his blog - pop over to see more of Slinkachu's work or take a chance and buy this book.

Mmmm This Week

2009-01-18T11:00:00.001-05:00

As promised I'm here to post my menu for the week. I know you've been chomping at the bit just dying to hear what we'll be eating this week. Hold onto your hats kids, it's going to be a yummy week with lots of new recipes because I'm crazy like that.

Monday: spaghetti
Tuesday: chicken fajitas
Wednesday: beef and broccoli stir-fry - newbie #1 of the week
Thursday: Gordon Ramsay's broccoli soup & wraps - newbie #2
Friday: rosemary-garlic chicken, Buttered Noodles with Chives - newbie #3
Saturday: chicken caesar salad using Fergie's delish dressing
Sunday: broiled chops, wee roasties

We managed to follow the menu this week, I switched a couple days around but only ate what was on the the plan. The new peanut noodle recipe we tried was yummy but I heated the ingredients in a pan to avoid drenching myself while whisking - sticky peanut butter doesn't whisk well - next time I would use less soy sauce than is called for, it was a little too salty for us.
Oh, and we ate it warm - with the temperature being minus 20 and colder this week we needed all the warmth we could get.

Monday was the one and only shopping day which was certainly a nice change and for once I didn't find myself tossing a bunch of wilted veggies on garbage day. I only bought what we actually intended to use and guess what, we used it: what a simple yet brilliant concept. Any new recipes out there that you want to share? Be sure to leave me a link!

Likey Lykkee Li

2009-01-16T17:03:00.004-05:00

I'm smitten. Thanks to Liss from Daydream Lily I have been introduced to a new artist to obsess over. I can finally set Todd Terje aside (at least temporarily). Listening to this lovely Swede's voice gets my creative juices flowing... watch her video below for Little Bit and check out her myspace page to hear a few more of her songs.

Fab Pick of Last Week

2009-01-16T17:00:00.000-05:00

Buttons and the beach are two of my most favourite things so this soap by HelloCrafty is right up my alley. Not only is the design eye catching, the scent description sounds lovely: "similar to Coppertone suntan lotion and many customers have told me it has a slight lilac fragrance as well." Heavenly!

Brilliant!

2009-01-15T16:52:00.004-05:00

Yesterday I ranted and today I will rave. Last night Mike and I watched a special on the most amazing young man: Stephen Wiltshire. Stephen is a brilliant artist who happens to be autistic; when I say brilliant artist I mean brilliant.

I haven't been able to stop thinking about Stephen's art all day; while out for lunch with Mike I was thinking again about the phenomenal talent Stephen has for drawing from memory (he has been referred to as a human camera) when Mike blurted out: I can't stop thinking about that artist. My point is, this young man is worthy of awe... maybe you have heard of him over the years but Mike and I hadn't.

We have every intention of purchasing a copy of one of Stephen's prints down the road and had no trouble agreeing on the panorama of England which the filming of the documentary circled around.

Grab yourself a glass of vino and be prepared to let your jaw drop. The video is 40 minutes but well worth the time. I think it would be impossible for you to watch this and not be impressed. Let me know what you think!

Ann Coulter: Wicked Witch of the Right-Wing

2009-01-14T18:21:00.007-05:00

We all have those moments where we watch something on TV and wish more than anything that we had access to Jeanie - from I Dream of Jeanie - so that we could pop back in time to the studio where the show being viewed was filmed just long enough to slap someone upside the head. Don't we? Well I don't know about you but it happens to me and when I watched this infuriating woman today I wished I had a lamp. As nasty as it may be I so wished I could hurl some hate Ann Coulter's way; she's throwing enough of it out to the single mothers in our world. See for yourself.

Here we have an ignorant woman who has no children of her own judging all single mothers and suggesting they are selfish women raising rapists and thieves. A chapter in her book titled Victim of a crime? Thank a single mother?! Single mothers must be the root of all problems in the USA; the disgustingly high poverty rates have everything to do with women raising children on their own and nothing to do with Ann's much loved right-wing "give to the rich and take from the poor" approach to running a country. Give me a break.

I should clarify that I don't paint all right-wing conservative women with the same brush, and I assume - please let me be right - that a huge number of republican women would be appalled by Coulter's words. Unfortunately for women sharing the political standpoint of Coulter the two females who are currently hold the spotlight are Coulter and Palin. Certainly not the sort of strong female role models I would want representing me.

Nevermind Sarah Palin, she's dim but relatively harmless, it's Ann Coulter who gets my vote as the wicked witch of the right-wing women.

Sadly, this sneak peek leaves me wanting more. I'm curious to know what else is written in her book, there was just one chapter on single mothers so who else does she condemn? It's sort of like a traffic accident, it's gruesome but you can't help but stare. Of course I won't support this crazy woman by purchasing her book; sharing this video might be seen by some as promotion but more than anything I want to hear what you have to say about this. Feel free to disagree with my opinion.

Why I Love Grade One

2009-01-13T21:41:00.005-05:00

I've moved from the junior division to the primary at my PDS. I'll be teaching six weeks straight in the grade one class after March break, until then I'm at the school one and a half days a week shadowing two phenomenal teachers (grade 1 & grade 2)

Kids kill me. I'm going to post memorable quotes and questions here, figure I may as well share the laughs and my "uh oh" moments with you.

Things that make you go hmmmm....
If Christ was Jesus' last name are there still people over there named Christ?
Why does your nose run when you go outside in the cold?
Do teachers get dressed when they leave school?
Did Jesus have a son?

So serious but so funny.
That monkey worries me.

Brilliant!
Child who struggles with reading, after flipping very quickly through a book responds to my
request that he read the story to me, "I don't want to read it aloud, I read it in my head so now you read it to me and I'll tell you if you're right."

You've gotta love 'em.

Tantalizing Tuesday

2009-01-12T23:50:00.002-05:00

that-crazy-broccoli
Originally uploaded by Dennis Ferry

The only thing healthy about this recipe is the broccoli but it's uber yummy so really, what does it matter?

Creamy Broccoli Salad
this is a dish I bring to every immediate-family meal because they all love it!

What You Need:
2 small broccoli
3/4 cup mayo
1/2 cup sugar
4 tbsp vinegar
chopped red onion
1 cup grated cheese
bacon bits (optional)

What You Do:
Now read this very carefully because it's easy to mess up.
1. Mix.
2. Eat.

In all seriousness, I suggest you mix up the wet bits with the sugar before adding the veggies.
That's all!

insert sarcasm here I Know You're Dying to Know...

2009-01-11T19:45:00.008-05:00

An old pic from a trip to Jamaica 3 years ago: bliss.

I'm back on my organization kick. I went hunting for a post to link to as proof of past attempts at organization and laughed when I realized my disorganization stretches beyond the real world and into my little bit of property in cyberspace. In other words I can't find what I'm looking for so I'll give up and trust that you'll take my word for the fact that every now and then I attempt to get organized.

Now that we are a one car couple I am finding it more important than ever to know what it is I need when I make a trip to the shops; it stinks when I realize I forgot to pick up 'such and such' and then remember I don't have a car available to take a quick trip. I've decided that the way I am going to limit the number of grocery store stops we have to make is by scheduling one visit to the grocer a week: Mondays will be shopping day. The only way I'll actually be able to stick to this is if I start making weekly menus that we actually use. I figure this will not only save us headaches and a ton of time - considering I hit the grocer at least 4 days a week now - it ought to save us a bunch of money. How often do I pick up extra things because I'm hungry when I shop after school? Every visit.

I'm posting my weekly menu here not because I think you actually care to read it but for myself, if I post my menu every Sunday I'm more likely to stick to it. I'm keeping with my other plan of more healthy eating and attempting new recipes each week so I'll be sure to link to any recipes that can be found on-line if I use any.

Alright. Week one of menu planning... GO!
Monday: taco salad
Tuesday: Sesame Peanut Noodles - new yum for the week
Wednesday: balsamic chicken, brown rice, asparagus
Thursday: out
Friday: pork stir fry
Saturday: Steak, baked potatoes, salad
Sunday: salmon and homemade fries

A Terrific Taste of India

2009-01-10T19:58:00.004-05:00

Photo taken and uploaded by Kristian Rasmussen

Tanya left us a box full of lovely edibles when she took off to Russia. One of the treats found in the mix was Gourmantra's boxed Tandoori mix. I followed the simple directions printed on the box and the end result: DELISH. Mike gobbled down his plate of chicken and rice announcing how fantastic the chicken was appx. 8 million times before suggesting this become a weekly meal; it really was fabulous. If you like Indian food you have to give Gourmantra's boxed mixes a shot.

Fab Pick of Last Week

2009-01-10T14:20:00.004-05:00

I fell in love with this design found in Terry Graziano's Etsy shop. The Sweetheart in merlot is sure to turn heads; it's super stylish with an awesome cut that will frame your face perfectly. This isn't Terry's only design so be sure to slip over to etsy to see what else is available. Beautiful!

ME! ME! ME!

2009-01-07T19:44:00.003-05:00

I won! I won! I WON! I rarely win things so when I slipped over to the ultra lovely Daydream Lily this evening to see what pretty post she had to share today, I was thrilled to see that she had oh so generously drawn an extra international name for her giveaway! J-A-I-M-E. That's me!

I won a copy of the Australian magazine Frankie, a magazine I've coveted for some time now thanks to its mention by so many fabulous Aussie bloggers. I literally squealed when I saw my name.

Thank you so sO SO very much!

Keeping Track of the Days

2009-01-07T19:26:00.005-05:00

Just a few of the lovely wallpapers for your desktop available for free over at Smashing Magazine.

February calendars will be posted here later this month so stay tuned; I'll be sure to let you know when they are available.

(found via the Blog Specialist)

Tantalizing Tuesdays are Biggity Back!

2009-01-06T16:52:00.005-05:00

Ceasar Salad
Originally uploaded by sonialena

Tantalizing Tuesdays retired a few months back but it's returning for 2009. One of my 8 thousand plans for the new year is to try at least one new recipe a week, what better way to keep track of my new favs than to post them here for you to try yourselves? If all goes well I'll post more than one recipe each week... we'll see though, that might be pushing things.

I've started a blog link list for food blogs I like down on the right side of this page, feel free to leave links for yummy blogs and/or recipes in the comment section and I'll be sure to check them out.

My first TT post for the year is a recipe for a excellent caesar salad with an amazing vinaigrette dressing. Our friend Fergie brought the salad to our annual Christmas with the Crazies pah-tay and was kind enough to pass the recipe my way. Double yum.

Fergie's Fabulous Caesar Salad

What You Need for the Dressing
6-8 cloves of garlic
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp white vinegar
3-4 splashes of Worcestershire
3-4 splashes Tabasco
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 whole egg
1/2 tsp sugar
(you have free range for the following ingredients - add what you want to taste, the amounts are ranges recommended by the chef)
1/4 - 1/2 tsp tarragon
1/4 - 1/2 tsp mustard
1/4 - 1/2 tsp pepper
1/4 - 1/2 tsp salt

What You Do
Easy peasy: mix it all up

What You Need for the Salad (serves 8)
3 romaine hearts
1/2 lb bacon cooked and crumbled
mozzarella cheese - as much as you like
dressing

What You Do
Tear it, cook it, shred it, pour it, toss it

2009-01-05T20:07:00.001-05:00

Beautiful Paper
Originally uploaded by words & pictures

You know how I love papercutting? Well I'll now add paper twirling (I'm pretty sure that's not the technical name for it) to my list of paper art loves.

Yulia Brodskaya's work is beautiful, don't you think?

Thanks to Black Eiffel (one of my new reads) for sharing these amazing finds.

An Adorable Girl with a Wonderful Mission

2009-01-05T17:39:00.003-05:00

The most adorable French child on earth - not that I know many French children but I think it's safe to guess she would be ranked as one of the all-time cutest if some sort of freakish ranking system was put in place - as seen here, is back. This time she has more than a story to tell, she has a cause. Check out her video and then click here if you want to help out with her 'friends in Mongolia'. Adorable.

Capucine for Edurelief in Mongolia from Capucha on Vimeo.

Soy Good

2009-01-04T14:20:00.000-05:00

Picture from MarthaStewart.com

First new recipe of the year was one I found through Dinner Tonight. Oh Yum Yum Yum. Super easy and really yummy. I served it over rice and used a crazy cheap steak and it was delish. This puppy has been written out and stuffed in my recipe binder, now it's your turn to try it out. Enjoy! p.s. Stay tuned for more recipes with the return of Tantalizing Tuesdays

Soy Glazed Beef with Green Beans
Serves 4

What You Need
3 tablespoons soy sauce
5 teaspoons rice vinegar
1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
1 teaspoon Asian garlic-chili sauce
1 teaspoon olive oil
3 (about 1 1/2 pounds) skirt steaks
Coarse salt and ground pepper
8 ounces green beans, trimmed
4 ounces bean sprouts

What You Do

1. Combine soy sauce, vinegar, sesame oil, and chili sauce in a small bowl; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over high heat; swirl to coat pan. Season steaks with salt and pepper; cook until browned, 3 to 4 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.
3. Pour off fat from pan; add green beans and 1/3 cup water. Reduce heat to medium. Cover; cook until beans are crisp-tender, 4 to 5 minutes (add more water if pan becomes dry).
4. Thinly slice beef. Pour soy mixture into pan; toss. Return beef and any accumulated juices to pan; cook (uncovered) until heated through. Add bean sprouts; toss to combine.

Eat it and love it. Oh and then let me know what you thought of it.

It'll Make You Giggle

2009-01-03T18:08:00.003-05:00

I labeled it 'movies' but technically WEEDS is a TV show. If you haven't seen it you should, it's really funny. I'm not a big comedy girl, I love to laugh but sitcoms and movies rarely do it for me. Maybe it's our warped sense of humor but Mike and I are hooked on Weeds - not the stuff you smoke, the show. A suburban mom turns to dealing to support her two boys, I'll say no more. We're into the second season right now and loving it. Have you seen it? What do you think?

Fab Pick of Last Week

2009-01-03T12:23:00.002-05:00

This funky hanging wall clock in aqua was one of my Etsy fav's and it's now hanging in my studio! Be sure to check out Decoy Lab for more fabulous designs.

Whispered Sweet Nothings

2009-01-03T10:00:00.001-05:00

He sits rubbing my socked feet like a good husband and then comes out with these sweet words.

him: "Is it you with the big toe?"
me: "You mean the extra long toe beside the big toe?"
him: "Yeah, it's freakishly weird."
me: "Thanks babe. And what who else would the toe belong to?"
him: "Anyone with their socks off."

huh?

There you have it, I'm freakishly weird, or at least my toe is. Thanks babe.

ADDITION TO POST: I am surrounded by such sweet men. Here is my brother's response to this post, "Yes you are freakishly wierd and it isn't because of your "Normal" Storozuk big second toe. There is plenty of other things that make you freakishly wierd..."
Thanks bro.

This Makes Me Seriously Consider French Immersion for My Invisible Child

2009-01-02T12:14:00.002-05:00

There is no way you can make it through this video without cracking a grin or twelve. Capucine is too sweet for words and can tell a fabulous story. Listen right through to the end, it's worth it.

Once upon a time... from Capucha on Vimeo.

Rocking In 2009!

2009-01-01T15:01:00.007-05:00

Hard to believe another year has bit the dust. I just read this post which made me laugh, my new years resolution for 2008 was to talk less and listen more. I think I managed to listen more but the talking less bit... well that's just a silly resolution for someone who rarely closes her mouth.

We brought in the new year with some of our closest friends, I have no clue what they were doing in the picture above but it was snapped just after hugs and cheers. Unfortunately a few of our regulars were unable to join us: Moscow, Germany, Vancouver, cruise ships and work commitments kept them from us. Not here in body but certainly here in spirit. We missed you ladies!

That's a post-spaghetti and pre-gin glow you see on our faces here. We filled our bellies with lots of carbs to ensure there was a good base for alcohol absorption - no hangover here thank you very much.

A good deal of our dinner conversation revolved around profanity and the many marvelous ways nasty words can be used in our day to day lives: enlightening.

Of course I brought in the new year with the love of my life at my side.

My new years resolutions for this year:
1) healthy living: be more active and eat more fruits & veggies (I didn't bother with this resolution last year because I knew I would FAIL but I'm serious about it this year so I'm putting it in writing)
2) curse less
3) call/email/skype my out of province girlfriends more often

I'm now part of a girl band with the uber classy name the Magina Vonologues. Don't ask.
Guitar Hero rocks.

How was YOUR New Years Eve? Happy recovering.

P.S. I Loved It

2008-12-31T00:20:00.003-05:00

If you want to watch a movie that will make your heart feel like it's being torn in two you should watch P.S. I Love You. I cried, hard, both times. Maybe I'm just a cheese ball.

Delish Dutch Apple Pie

2008-12-30T17:14:00.004-05:00

Jessy's grandma's apple pie is super yummy and super easy to make. I know, I've made it three times in the last week. This is one of those recipes that everyone at the table requests after eating a piece. DELISH!

What You Need for Filling:
4 cups cooking apples (3-4 apples) peeled and chunked - I recommend Gala apples
2 tbsp lemon juice
1/2 cup sugar
2 tbsp flour
Nutmeg and cinnamon to taste

What You Need for Topping:
1/3 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup flour
1/3 cup butter
2 tbsp cream/milk (optional and I chose not to use it)

Pastry: 9" pie shell

What You Do:
1. Sprinkle apple chunks with lemon juice.
2. Toss with sugar, flour, nutmeg and cinnamon.
3. Place in pie crust.
4. Sprinkle on topping.
5. Cover loosely with foil.
6. Bake at 425 degrees for 45 minutes.
7. Uncover, dribble with cream if using, and bake for 15 minutes more.

Fab Pick of Last Week

2008-12-27T18:29:00.002-05:00

These vintage typewriter keys turned wine tags are super cool. There won't be any question of what glass belongs to what guest if you sling these funky charms on goblets at your next shin dig. Visit QA Create to check out what other unique bits typewriter keys have been turned into.

Happy Holidays!

2008-12-26T22:49:00.005-05:00

Flickr photo thanks to Gizmo_F

I'm hoping all of you have had a stellar Christmas, I certainly did. I've eaten enough turkey to last me a lifetime and although I'm still stuffed (we had Christmas number 2 today) I'm seriously considering crawling to the fridge to snag a slab of stuffing. My second mom makes the best stuffing ever created by human hands. Seriously. Just writing about it is causing my full belly to growl -- stuffing and wine, oh my. The bonus of hosting big dinners is leftovers and I have a massive chunk of stuffing sitting in my fridge waiting to be devoured. Oh and there's the cheesy cauliflower too... oh no.

A big thanks to Sarah for Christmas dinner number one, it was fab. Thankfully the snow stopped falling Christmas eve (our snow banks were 7 feet high after mike dug out the 5 ft of snow at the end of our driveway left by the plow) so Christmas day was perfect for traveling, not that we had very far to go. It was a lovely day with unexpected appearances from Mr. Napkin head and Prince Napkin head. If only someone had snapped a photo of the original Mr. Napkin Head - it's one of those 'had to be there' moments but trust me when I say my dad caught all of us off guard and it was hilarious.

Today we cooked the bird for the other half of our family. Gertrude, affectionately named Gertie, was a pretty turkey and tasted delish.

Mike and I were spoiled rotten by our families: loads of lovely gifts! We slept covered in our new duvet last night and it was heavenly; I'm currently wrapped up in the softest blanket ever and we have enough chocolate around here to last a lifetime. A zillion lovely gifts, far too many to name but I'll definitely share some of them with you over the next couple of weeks. One will be my new fab pick of the week.

I'm chopping the lid tomorrow, I'm desperately in need of a cut considering my last one was in September! Ick, my hair is a mess. I'm going to a new stylist and trying a new cut - not sure if a brand new style is a smart idea with someone I've never been to but I'm going to give it a shot and hope to hell I don't end up with a hack job. I'll report back to you soon, I'm sure you'll think of NOTHING but my hair until you hear from me again.

I can't resist it any longer, stuffing and wine here I come.

Happy Holidays everyone!

Happy Birthday Big Bro!!

2008-12-22T08:00:00.003-05:00

My big brother turns 44 today. Happy Birthday John!

Did I say 44? I meant 34. Seriously, he's 34 going on 14.

On this date many years ago (for MANY years in a row) John would be threatening to tell me what all of my Christmas gifts were if I didn't tell him one or two of his. He couldn't handle not knowing and I loved being surprised. Of course the reality was he would have never told me what my presents were but I was convinced he would ruin it for me so I would always give in and tell him a gift or two.

As if you really needed me to tell you John! You were the master present opener and re-sealer. There was just one year I gave in and looked with you and I totally regretted it on Christmas morning.

Although you ~~are~~ were a total pain in the ass big brother who looked out for me rather than buying me vodka and cigarettes - what nerve!! And even though we could have been aired on UFC on more than one occasion - I so did NOT throw a knife at you, you simply imagined that... or maybe I blocked it out? I have loads of fond memories of us growing up and I love you more than you know John. I am lucky to have you as a big brother and I'm lucky to have you as a friend now that we are ~~bigger kids~~ adults. and I can't begin to tell you how proud I am of you, you are an amazing man and a phenomenal father.

I hope you have a wonderful birthday bro! May all of your birthday wishes come true.

Oh and I made you a little something for your birthday - everyone feel free to check this out and have a good laugh on John's expense. John this is what you will look like if you let yourself go a little... okay, a lot. Go Bro, it's your birthday!

Christmas with the Crazies

2008-12-21T20:29:00.006-05:00

Our annual Christmas with the Crazies took place last night and now it really feels like Christmas is just around the corner. We skipped the typical turkey and trimmings and hosted a pot luck instead this year, it was perfect! Less mess and less stress! EC took care of the tunes.

Jess made the best apple pie I have ever tasted and I intend to replicate it for our family shin digs, a frozen cheesecake or two will be waiting in the wings just in case. I'll share the recipe with you if all goes well.

I spent this morning clearing the wreckage from the pah-tay and the proceeded to procrastinate... eventually I managed to get my butt in gear and a few things were wiped off my TO DO list.

I finally got to Rosie's Christmas gift and I am stoked with the results. How cute is this tiny sundress?

A big thanks goes out to Habitual where I found this super sweet pattern.

I know it's December but I figure she can wear it over a long sleeve shirt and tights or leg warmers. Once Rosie's too big to wear this as a dress it can be work as a little tunic top. Super cute! This pattern is definitely a keeper.

I also whipped up this little crayon roll for my dad; he is stuffing Neve's stocking and was looking for a little something extra to add to it.

Remember to enter the draw for the ZipIt by leaving a comment on this post.

Oh So Sweet Tags

2008-12-21T12:34:00.003-05:00

Abigail Halpin has posted a free downloadable pdf for some super sweet gift tags. I have a zillion tags leftover from last year so as tempting as it is to print these off I'm going to save the pdf to print next Christmas. Enjoy!

Mushrooms and Snails and Tiny Pig Tails

2008-12-19T16:49:00.004-05:00

I had a request for some teeny tiny Lola's for some teeny tiny girls for Christmas and I am really pleased with the results. I found this super cute fabric at Above All Fabric and was thrilled with the super quick delivery and friendly service; be sure to check out the selection at this Etsy shop if you're looking for some fabulous fabric.

I hope the little ladies like this tiny Lola as much as I do!

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE!

2008-12-18T10:41:00.004-05:00

HO HO HO! Time for another givewaway!

Leave me a Christmas related comment: fav memory/tradition/joke WHATEVER on this post and you'll be entered in my draw to win a ZipIt similar to this one.

The contest closes on December 25th. Be sure to leave me some sort of contact info (email or link to your blog) so that I can contact you if you're the lucky winner!

Gamer Love Song

2008-12-18T09:23:00.004-05:00

Mario Kart Love Song (Original)

I found this video over at Oh, Hello Friend and fell head over heels for it. Whether you're a Super Mario Bros. fan or not you're sure to think it's a sweet song - listen closely to the lyrics. A syrupy voice, unique lyrics and an acoustic guitar: this guy has been added to my favs on YouTube.

Easy & Delish = Danger

2008-12-16T20:51:00.005-05:00

Read this post at your own risk.

This is the time of year when I go hunting for new blogs to add to my list of regular reads, I have a hard time sitting down doing nothing so surfing blogdom kingdom while watching tv during Christmas holidays is my way of relaxing.

Tonight I stumbled upon Made by Petchy where I found a pattern for an adorable and simple little peanut dress that I think I might whip up for Rosie for Christmas AND the recipe for this simply ~~deadly~~ delightful chocolate cake in a cup. Seriously. CAKE in a CUP. BRILLIANT. In less than 5 minutes I made one for Mike, when I asked how it tasted and received a chocolate mouth filled "Yum!" I proceeded to make one for myself and I concur: YUM.

Easy peasy. I highly recommend the hot fudge topper along with coconut as suggested by Petchy. Mmm mmm good.

Here's the Recipe:
Dump the following ingredients in a coffee mug and stir
5 tbsp plain flour
2 tbsp cocoa powder
2 tbsp sugar
1/8 tsp baking powder
1/8 tsp salt

Once you've stirred these goodies add the following:
1 tbsp oil
3 tbsp milk (or 1 tbsp milk plus 2 tbsp applesauce)
1/4 tsp white vinegar

Stir it up and place mug in the microwave. Cook on full power for 1-2 minutes, depending on your machine.

One of the ladies who left a comment following Petchy's post suggested that you "watch for the rise and then the beginnings of falling back into the cup (for done-ness) or the signature steaming up of the microwave door, after which (she) count to about 15." I'll try this next round!

When you pull it out of the micro you'll look in the mug and think "ew" or "hmmm I don't think that's done" even when it is. Use your typical cake testing method to see if it's all good and then tip your mug upside down on a plate. Give it a few moments to settle (this would be a good time to melt your hot fudge and/or scoop your ice cream) and then give the mug a shake and THUMP out falls your little cake. Well, in theory you'll get the thump. I had one thump and one that I had to dig out with a spoon.

This is a pretty rich dessert that tastes like a brownie so next time I'll share one with Mike OR I'll be sure to add vanilla ice cream and pineapple to take the edge off. Oh me oh my this cake in a cup might not be a good thing after all.

Santa's Message to My Man

2008-12-16T15:21:00.003-05:00

This is a very cool little tool you can use for your kids (or husband) for Christmas. A personalized video from Santa himself!

Check out the message from Santa to Mike, I'm sure he'll be thrilled when he sees it. Be sure to have your volume turned up and you might have to refresh your screen once or twice before it actually comes up, it will say error but it's LYING!

Oh and one side note, if I was creating one of these for a child I think I would choose one of the options other than "how does Santa know who has been naughty and who has been nice" - how creepy are the elves peering in the window?! That would freak me out if I was wee!

Fab Pick of Last Week.... or was it two weeks ago?

2008-12-16T09:19:00.005-05:00

I'm a sucker for fabulous photographs and then there's my weird obsession with swings... needless to say it was love at first sight when I spotted this beautiful print in Oranje's etsy shop.

Mmmm Buttons

2008-12-15T19:51:00.003-05:00

My favourite woman dropped off a massive ziploc bag of my favourite things this weekend - thanks mom! Yay for Thrift Shops and a mom addicted to scouring them for fabulous goods.

I've decided to finally sort my collection of lovely buttons by colour so that I can display them in my sewing room/office. I started sorting and soaking the little buggers last night and I know I'm a dork but there is something oddly satisfying about the task.

Oh how I love buttons.

And the WINNER is...

2008-12-15T09:28:00.004-05:00

Congratulations to Melanie from Whimsical Creations who is the lucky winner of the alien stocking! With the huge number of entries (all TWO, hee hee) I figured writing names on slips of paper was the easiest way to take care of the draw and Whimsical was the name pulled.

Thanks for entering the contest. I'll be posting another giveaway VERY soon but will be leaving this one open longer to give more people a chance to enter.

A Big One!

2008-12-14T20:58:00.006-05:00

Enter the Oh How Lovely Shops Big Holiday Giveaway!

A big giveaway at Oh! How Lovely! - even if you don't want to enter the contest you should check out this blog, it features loads of awesome goods.

ENTER TO WIN!!

2008-12-13T22:51:00.002-05:00

You have 25 more hours to enter the draw for one of my alien stockings. Click here and leave a comment telling me what your fav Christmas tradition is and you will be entered into the draw. I'll close the contest at 11pm Sunday evening and will contact the winner for mailing info as soon as I have drawn the lucky number. Family and friends feel free to enter as well - the more entries the merrier.

I'll be posting another giveaway this week so be sure to pop by!

A Sticky Star

2008-12-12T21:27:00.005-05:00

I was poking around WhipUp and ended up at A Foothill Home Companion where the tutorial for this fab stick star can be found. As soon as I spotted this decoration I thought of my friend Cara. Cara is one of the most artistic women I know and she comes by her talents honestly, her mom is an amazing potter who creates stunning pieces. Many, many years ago Cara and I were chatting in the car outside of her parents house (just moments before curfew was up I'm sure) when I glanced out the window and spotted a star just like the one shown above hanging from her parent's tree. It looked so pretty dangling from the branches, there was snow sparkling all around lit by the moonlight. I immediately assumed that Cara's mom had created this little piece of heaven but it wasn't Rose at all, it was Cara's dad Ron who had created the stars and hung them up to surprise his lovely wife. So sweet!

I think I might take my little friend Grace out for a walk tomorrow to gather some sticks.

Ania's the New Girl On the Block

2008-12-11T19:56:00.002-05:00

This hot mama was created thanks to a special order. I just love this purple fabric and the black velvet bow is always a winner. I plan to sew a few more Ania's over the holidays... after I get going on the mini-Lola's that have been ordered. If only there were more hours in the day!

ALIEN STOCKING GIVEAWAY!!

2008-12-11T19:32:00.007-05:00

Ho Ho Ho ladies and gentlemen.

I promised to give out goodies in December and although most will likely be links to downloadable fabulousness and links to other blogger's giveaways I will certainly be dolling out a few freebies myself. It's time.

The first little something I have for you is one of my super sweet (if I don't say so myself) alien stockings. I should have done this a couple weeks ago so that the very lucky winner would have the stocking for Christmas (there's a novel idea) but I didn't so oh well, you'll have it to stash away for next near! See, what I'm actually doing is helping you out with your Christmas shopping for 2009. No need to thank me.

The stocking I am putting up for grabs is not the one show in the photo above so the pattern placement will differ slightly. The lining is red cotton and the white trim is crazy soft. This stocking is not listed in my shop because of the fact that I sewed the trim on a little wonky. The seam on the trim doesn't line up with the seam on the stocking, it's one of those things that isn't at all noticeable unless you are looking for an oops. Why did I even bother mentioning it? Well... the winner might examine the stocking closely and if they were to find the oops and I hadn't mentioned it they might just think I'm sloppy and I wouldn't want them to think I sell sloppy goods in my shop. Blah, blah, blah. What was meant to be a short post has turned ridiculous.

If you want this adorable alien stocking what you need to do is post a comment telling me about a fav Christmas memory or a tradition you love. Post your comment by Sunday December 14th so that I can draw a winner late Sunday evening and ship this puppy off on Monday morning. Depending on where you live there's a slight possibility that you might receive the stocking by Christmas.... it's doubtful but possible. Never say never! Remember to leave me some info whether it be an email address or a link to your blog so that I can reach you if you win.

Feel free to let your friends know about the giveaway. It's time for the lurkers to show their pretty selves. There are many regular readers here at JJ who I have yet to 'meet' so this is your opportunity to leave a comment, don't be afraid, I won't bite... hard.

Slap a Stamp On It

2008-12-11T19:15:00.006-05:00

The Christmas cards are in the post. Finally. Yep, I left it late so our family across the ocean will be receiving Christmas wishes after the holidays I'm sure, but at least they'll know we were thinking of them. Better late than never.

I love opening the mailbox and finding mail (not bills) addressed to me so Christmas cards are just one more reason I can't get enough of this season. Our little Christmas card display is slowly filling.

Mom this little link is for you in particular. I stumbled upon this blog and she has posted a pile of links for giveaways for scrapbooking and card making supplies.

Mike & I received one super special card yesterday from a fabulous friend who we won't be seeing this Christmas *insert sad face here* A card from the Stephen Lewis Foundation arrived and to be honest with you I figured it was a 'please donate moolah' request. I was thrilled when I opened it and saw that it was a thank you note from the foundation, money has been donated in our names! What a very cool gift from a very cool and thoughtful friend. Thank you Tanya!!

Christmas Elf

2008-12-07T11:25:00.005-05:00

The majority of our Christmas decorations have been hung at the three foot point and below this year and each was hung accompanied by a very intense look of determination. We had a fun night filled with decorating and dancing. Let the Christmas season begin!

From Me to You!

2008-12-06T16:53:00.004-05:00

I just arrived home from running some errands and it's a winter wonderland out there! Tomorrow morning is guaranteed to be filled with shoveling and I'm kicking myself for not picking up hot chocolate mix when I was at the grocery store earlier. I suppose I'll be hunting for a yummy hot chocolate from scratch recipe later this evening.

My niece is coming over to hang out with her favourite aunt (that would be me) tonight while her mommy and daddy enjoy some grown up fun at a Christmas party. We're going to eat spaghetti, decorate the Christmas tree, bake some cookies and definitely watch High School musical while doing all of the previously mentioned. I'm guessing we'll fit in two viewings and possibly begin the third by the time my brother comes to pick her up. Thankfully I haven't seen the movie yet so it shouldn't be too painful.

While pulling out the decorations for the tree I started thinking that it would be great if I could give all of my readers a gift for Christmas. Then I remembered I'm a student and me giving everyone a gift would actually mean Mike would be giving all of you a gift since he's currently my cash supply and something tells me he might not like the idea as much as I do! Rather than giving you all material gifts I'm going to try to pass along freebies as often as possible during the month of December. The freebie might be a recipe, tutorial, printable or a handmade something to be sent through the post. I'll try to post as often as possible but I'm not promising anything!

My first share of the month is thanks to How About Orange - I know, I know, you're not surprised - who posted the link to this beautiful free printable 2009 calendar at Mibo. Sign up for their newsletter and in return you'll receive the pdf for the calendar. Lovely!

More goodness tomorrow! Stay warm.

One Year Wiser!

2008-12-05T15:24:00.003-05:00

This is a very belated Happy Birthday post for my fabulous husband. No I didn't forget his birthday, I just haven't wished him a happy day publicly. So here I am wishing my Michael a VERY happy 32nd birthday! I love you Miguel! I love you so much in fact that I'm willing to have you plastered all over some bombshell's bod. NOTE: That might sound like an open invitation but it's a once in a lifetime thang and since you're plastered all over the girl below the offer is now null and void.

A birthday post wouldn't be complete without a PhotoFunia pic.

Last Week's Fab Pick

2008-12-05T14:21:00.005-05:00

Alsita has created 4 x 6" prints of some of her breathtaking papercut art. For a crazy low price you can purchase one from her Etsy shop. Beautiful!

PB & Chocolate

2008-11-29T12:12:00.008-05:00

Original Photo Uploaded by Bakerella

My grandma's peanut butter balls are unbelievably yummy. I begged my grandma - okay, all it really took was a "please" - to make 400 balls for our wedding reception and our yummy giveaways were a huge hit. My zillion cousins and I fight over who should have the first ball at every family function; of course Grandma makes enough for all of us but she gets a kick out of us oohing, ahhing and slapping at each other over them.

Since the Christmas season is upon us and Kim has requested my grandma's recipe I figure it is the perfect time to share it with you. Let me know what you think if you end up making them. Mmmmmmmmmmmmmm!

Grandma D's famous Chocolate Peanut Butter Balls

What You Need:
2 cups peanut butter
5 cups sifted icing sugar
8 tbsp butter
2 tbsp wax (I use a little less or it ends up tasting waxy)
1 3/4 cups chocolate chips OR 5 squares bakers chocolate

What You Do:
1. Mix peanut butter, icing sugar and butter together.
2. Form into balls and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.
3. Melt wax and chocolate in a double boiler.
4. Coat balls in chocolate (a fork with a bent handle works well for this job)
5. Set on wax paper or parchment paper and let harden in fridge.

EAT! Be warned, consuming too many of these puppies can leave you with a serious bellyache.

Thanks to Flickr I found the great shot of peanut butter balls shown above which led me to Bakerella's awesome blog! Now I think I might try out her Nutter Butter recipe and there's this Red Velvet Cake Balls recipe that looks delish and oh my god these peanut butter cookies dipped in chocolate. I think I've found heaven on-line.

Weekend SALE!

2008-11-29T11:16:00.004-05:00

If you were considering purchasing yourself a pair of arm warmers by Eterknity (two posts down) this is the weekend to buy them!

Hop on over to their Bargain Shop and receive FREE surface shipping to Canada and the US on all items a FREE pair of fingerless gloves ($25 value) with the purchase of any pair of arm warmers.

That's what I call a deal.

go Go GO!

2008-11-29T10:44:00.000-05:00

Things have been crazy around here for the last few weeks: 8 zillion major assignments and a whole load of lesson plans left me with barely enough time to eat, let alone blog. I'm now officially done all but one of my classes; one more assignment to do and I'll then be finished writing papers until the new year. Yay!

This is a crap picture but it shows you what the state of my sweatshop (named lovingly by Tanya) has been in, in recent weeks. The cat's like, "What the hell is going on in here?"

After this latest stretch of insanity I've come to the conclusion that I need a bean bag chair.

Of course that doesn't mean I'm off the hook for work. I just finished week one of my three weeks of teaching in a grade 5 class and I'm loving it! The kids are funny and really sweet. So far so good with the human body, it's a lot for the little monsters to learn but they're taking it all in stride: two systems down and three to go. I've been getting really great feedback from the classroom teacher and one of my profs came in to observe me last week and had lots of lovely things to say to me which helped boost my confidence. I'm finally feeling confident in my abilities, I can't tell you how good that feels.

An apology to my faithful readers, I've been failing miserably in the posting department lately; I'm going to try to write more often, I promise. Of course the posts will be in between sewing the pile of custom orders through Gingham Skies that I need to get going on and preparing for that little thing called Christmas that is quickly approaching. Argh. I should probably start my Christmas shopping huh?
**note to family: Christmas gift ideas please or tell me to go for it and surprise you.

This is... late

2008-11-17T21:19:00.003-05:00

Better late than never!
This is my favourite thing from nature.

Photo by evaxebra

Flowers, the sky and clouds... what a perfect combo.

Thanks to Cloth and Fodder for this week's "This is..." theme.

New Girl On the Block

2008-11-15T13:03:00.003-05:00

I have a new obsession with the colour purple. If I were to ride on some of purple amusement park swings I could die a happy woman.

This pretty lady can be found in the shop. I'm tempted to keep her for myself.

Can't Get Enough!

2008-11-12T23:19:00.005-05:00

I nearly forgot... again.

Today I am thankful for Kraft Dinner. I am also thankful that Mike doesn't eat the stuff, if he did I would have a serious problem. Thankfully his lack of love for KD means I only eat it when he's traveling.

He's in Boston... guess what I had for dinner? You got it.

Thanks to The Faz for this pic.

I went to the gym after school today - don't look so surprised - so I don't feel too guilty about eating the entire box. YUM!

Last Week's Fab Pick - Cozy Arms

2008-11-12T22:59:00.006-05:00

Eterknity opened up another Etsy shop! Bargain Boutique is the name and my oh my can you find some fab bits for unbelievable prices! I have a pair of these arm warmers in green and I can't get enough of them. Besides being a stranger stopping piece of eye candy they are super comfy and warm. The perfect accessory for the fall and winter.

A couple weeks ago when I posted this as the FAB PICK OF THE WEEK I had one pair of Eterknity's arm warmers but now I have TWO! A pair of the cabled (first pic) in green and a pair of the ribbed in plum (as seen in the second shot). Yay for me!!

Jealous?! Hop on over to BargainBoutique and pick up a pair or two for yourself.

2008-11-11T20:55:00.001-05:00

Poppies fields(2)
Originally uploaded by Zé Eduardo...

I am thankful for those brave men and women who have fought for our freedom.

ANUS!

2008-11-11T17:27:00.004-05:00

Did you laugh? Well I can just about guarantee that if you were in grade 5 surrounded by your friends and you heard the word anus you would laugh. I'll be able to tell you for sure in a couple weeks when I teach my lessons on the human body. The hardest part will be not joining the little buggers in their gigglefest. Yep, the digestive system lessons mean "anus" and "bowel movement" in the same 45 minute period. Lovely. I think I'm going to skip out on "bowel movement" and just go for the ever so popular POO.

I wonder what new Google searches will be bringing visitors to my blog after I publish this post.

More Freebies!

2008-11-10T10:48:00.007-05:00

Another giveaway on How About Orange; pop over to enter for a chance to win two very cool posters of your choice from The Poster List. I haven't purchased a poster since high school but I am tempted to do so now. I want one of these for my office/studio:

Primary Cameras

Sew or Die

Another awesome freebie is being offered over at Make and Takes... you have the chance to win the cutest little print making kit by Jacobella. If you're the winner (and don't you worry, you're all winners in my mind) you can create a little somethin somethin like this:

This is... my favourite quote

2008-11-08T11:04:00.003-05:00

The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart.
~ Helen Keller

Strawberry Kisses suggested the theme for this week's "This Is..."

Special Order

2008-11-07T19:44:00.006-05:00

I had a special order for Christmas stockings, three of which will be heading overseas to Ireland.

I love the pink and silver fabric and that cuff is just too cute.

What little guy wouldn't love an alien stocking?!

I've decided to donate $5.00 from each Christmas stocking purchase to the Make a Wish Foundation. This awesome organization sent my nine year old cousin (who has inoperable brain cancer) along with his brother, sister, mom and dad to Florida's Walt Disney World just last month - they had an amazing time! Make a Wish certainly does make dreams come true.

The stockings listed in the shop right now are reserved but more will be posted there soon.

Oh and before I miss another day...
7) I'm thankful for Indian Summers! Here's hoping this beautiful weather sticks around for a little longer than they're predicting.

Snip It Real Good

2008-11-06T18:30:00.004-05:00

Recently I added the blog The Heart of Papercuts to my Sew Crafty blogroll. I'll be featuring the Etsy shop where you can buy beautiful prints of these phenomenal papercut pieces (for just $7.00) as my Fab Pic of the week (which should maybe be titled Fab pick of the Every Few Weeks) soon, not tonight though because I swore to not procrastinate and am already breaking that promise to myself. Holy run-on-sentence.

I'm in love with these and may have to treat myself to a print sometime soon. What a perfect decoration for my office...

Blech to homework.

I missed my Thankful for 30 yesterday so it's another double shot tonight:
5) I'm thankful that America made the right decision and voted for change! What a relief.
6) I'm thankful for the glass of red wine in my hand which gobbled up my headache and helped me to destress after one hell of a day. Oh, and I'm thankful for this Indian Summer!! I know that's an extra one but I'm allowed to be thankful for more than one thing each day right?!

Pick Me Please!

2008-11-04T23:01:00.006-05:00

Giveaways are always a good thing so before I hit the memory foam I wanted to share a link with you. Pop on over to See Katie Sew and enter to win a package of fabric and then if you really wanted to you could pass it my way.

A girl can dream, can't she?

You could also pass this fabulous giveaway my way if you win. My most fav blog How About Orange is giving away an apron that I have admired on Etsy on many occasions and a super cute bag too.

Puh-lease pick me!

Who Am I?

2008-11-04T22:25:00.005-05:00

Photo credit: Stanco on flickr

I'm so tired I'm not even sure I would know my name if it wasn't for blogger displaying it for me. This teachers college thang is making me very sleepy. Work, work, work, work. It's crunch time and there is an insane amount of work to be completed in the next two weeks. Thankfully I know my limit and don't stress myself out like I used to. No more working past 10pm unless it's to finish one of my 8 billion assigned readings; I'm less likely to whip a textbook at the wall after 10pm if I'm reading it for knowledge sake than I am if I'm reading it for the sake of a research paper. Trust me, I know from experience.

Only two and a half weeks until I begin my second teaching block placement, yep that means three weeks with twenty-seven 1o year olds followed by a three week break for Christmas, I can't wait! It's hard to believe I'm nearly halfway through my program... it seems like just yesterday that I posted this and now I'm only 6 months away from completing my dream. Time flies!

I'm relieved to say that I'm actually looking forward to my block with the grade 5 class, although I requested a grade 5 or 6 class I was nervous about it (which was the reason I went for it, figured I better grab the bull by the horns so to speak) but now that I've spent a few days hanging out with the teacher and the students I'm not worried at all. They're a sweet bunch of kids and the teacher is good, I think I'll survive. I'll be teaching a unit on the human body in Science, that should be interesting... not interesting 'hmmm', more like interesting 'uh-oh'.

Oops, I nearly forgot...
Thankful for 30 thought of the day:
4) I'm thankful for my cozy bed and cushy pillow made of that weird memory foam stuff; it's going to feel sooooooooo good when my lid hits that foam tonight!

Cravings

2008-11-03T21:34:00.004-05:00

Keeping with the Thankful for 30 plan...

3. I'm thankful for chocolate peanut butter ice cream (but would be more thankful if I had some in the freezer), chocolate peanut butter balls (made by my grandma, chocolate bars and hot chocolate with whipped cream. Oh and Swedish Berries and Fuzzy Peaches.

Can you tell I'm craving junk?

What's There to Be Thankful For?

2008-11-02T21:41:00.006-05:00

While ~~procrastinating~~ taking a break from my zillion assignments I stumbled upon this beautiful blog, seriously it is really lovely to look at, you should check it out. Not only is Confessions of a Craft Addict pretty it's a good read too. The most recent post is where the Thankful for 30 pic above came from; what's this all about? Well it's pretty self-explanatory, what are you thankful for? For every day in November, yep there are 30, I'll write down something I'm thankful for. I've found myself whining about school a lot lately so this will force me to be positive for at least 30 seconds of every day.

Okay since it's the second of November I'll think of two things.
~~1. I'm thankful that Mike has shingles and I don't~~. I know, that wasn't very nice. Let's try this again.
1. I'm thankful the police made the creeps (that is putting it VERY nicely) across the street get rid of their KKK jack-o-lantern (No I'm not kidding. Just thinking about it makes my heart start pounding all over again) and I'm thankful that everyone who has heard about it has reacted with utter disgust. I have good peeps in my world.

2. I'm thankful that I have a husband who is as fabulous as Mike, without his support I would not be living my dream of attending teachers college at 30 years old. Three cheers for shingle boy!

This is... a favourite recipe I would like to share

2008-11-01T10:51:00.003-04:00

Mike will be thanking Three Buttons for this weeks "This is..." theme. Typing up this recipe has me craving Pad Thai, guess what we're having for dinner...

Thai It You'll Like It Pad Thai
Recipe from Looneyspoons by Janet and Greta Podleski

What You Need:
12 ounces uncooked fettuccine or linguine
2 cups sliced red bell peppers (colour really doesn’t matter, just slice them in strips)
1 cup snow peas, trimmed and halved
1/3 cup chopped green onion (or whatever you have on hand)
1/2 cup low-sodium low-fat chicken broth
2 teaspoons sesame oil
2 tablespoons reduced-fat peanut butter (or soy nut butter)
1 1/2 tablespoons reduced sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon white vinegar or rice vinegar
1 teaspoon grated gingerroot (I never add this, no ginger fans here)
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 lb cooked chopped cooked chicken breast (or shrimp)

What You Do:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and keep warm.
2. While pasta is cooking, prepare sauce.
3. In a large saucepan, combine all ingredients except shrimp; mix well.
4. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to medium.
5. Cook and stir for 3-4 minutes, until vegetables are crisp-tender and sauce is bubbly and slightly thickened.
6. Stir in chicken (or shrimp) and cook just until heated through, 1-2 minutes; do not overcook if using shrimp or it will be rubbery.
7. Toss hot sauce with pasta and serve immediately.

This is supposed to be a low-fat recipe but it's also supposed to serve four people. You guessed it, we split it in half and devour it with absolutely no problem. DELICIOUS!

Halloween Hangover

2008-11-01T10:26:00.005-04:00

I ate far too many of the little chocolate bars meant for the goblins last night. I have a chocolate hangover. blech.

Of course nephews and niece were definitely the cutest trick or treaters stomping around town.

The Mario Brothers costumes Joanne pulled together turned out phenomenal if you ask me:

They've got the poses down pat.

And of course Princess Belle made an appearance.

Jess and I watched The Exorcist as planned last night. I arrived home at 130 am totally freaked out and planned to sit in the living room until Mike got home; that was until I checked my mail and realized Lola had sold. Her new home is in Savannah, Georgia! Thanks to the sale I was distracted and got over being creeped out.

Mike and I had planned to attend a Halloween party as zombies tonight, unfortunately Mike is really turning into one so we can no longer attend. He found out yesterday that what we thought were some nasty bug bites are actually shingles! Ick and ouch. Thankfully I've had the chicken pox; unfortunately we can't be sure everyone else has so we're skipping the bash.

I hope you had a wonderful Halloween and that you enjoyed my Blogtoberfest run this month, I can't believe October is gone already. I'm going to attempt to stick to the daily posting so be sure to stop on by regularly.

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T18:45:00.001-04:00

I'll be spending Halloween evening watching my all-time fav creepy movie: The Exorcist.

This clip is my way of saying Happy Halloween!

Introducing My New Girl Parker

2008-10-31T17:59:00.006-04:00

A new design can be found in the shop, her name is Parker.

She's belongs to the Clutch family, unlike her sister Elizabeth she closes with a magnetic snap and more of her interior is visible when you open her up.
See what I mean, check out those stars.

Her funky vintage buttons are for fashion not function.

Stop on by the shop for more details.

Gone Green

2008-10-30T17:45:00.002-04:00

Original picture uploaded by Bad Bad

It's about time Waterloo went Green(er). Slowly but surely our region is introducing a residential green bin program which provides residents with bins for organic household materials (food, tissue etc). I was thrilled (no, it doesn't take much these days to excite me) to receive a pamphlet on our doorstep a month ago that explained how our neighbourhood was the next in line to receive the bins. We already recycle but community composting will definitely reduce the amount of trash we end up with on the curb. Our new bin has arrived and has been put to good use already.

Mike and I are also doing our part for the environment by becoming a one car family. Let's be honest, we are doing this to save money, but helping the environment is a definite perk. I handed the keys to Flea, my little Echo, over to the dealership on Tuesday. It was a bitter sweet moment. It's great knowing that I won't have to worry about gas, a monthly lease payment and insurance but I also lose some of my freedom. Mike and I are going to have to learn to share! Oh boy.

Last Week's Pick of the Week

2008-10-30T10:43:00.002-04:00

FaniSong's Glass Photo Pendants

There are some beautiful ECO-friendly pendants to be found at FaniSong. The best part is you can purchase one of the stylish recycled glass pendants with a photo chosen by FaniSong, like the dandelion shown above, or you can request a custom made pendant. Simply email your chosen photo and you'll have yourself a unique gift.

What Lola Wants...

2008-10-28T22:06:00.006-04:00

Thanks Tanya for providing me with inspiration for Lola's desciption found in the shop.

The next Lola will be darker to fit the fall/winter thang.

I can't get enough of these big beautiful buttons!

Lola can be all yours... check out the details here.

Blue Monday

2008-10-27T12:10:00.003-04:00

1. Untitled, 2. Just Clouds and Bright Blue Sky, 3. dandelion blue, 4. Blue Oasis, 5. big blue..., 6. The blue tent, 7. a sky divided, 8. blue and white...2008, 9. dried toluidine blue on a petri dish

It was a grey morning and I needed some blue to brighten my mood.

This is what I'm surprised I like

2008-10-25T20:17:00.005-04:00

I shook my head while grumbling and mumbling about Mike and his mountain biking adventures before August of this year. I thought he was nuts to throw himself down a mountain on a bike... until I tried it myself.

One trip down Whistler Mountain in BC and I was hooked.
I can't wait to go back next year, and the year after that, and the year after that, and the... Yep, I've fallen for biking (literally in the pic above).

Another surprising like of mine:

Thanks photobunny for the sweet onion pic (ha! get it? sweet onion.)

I used to hate onions but love, loVe, LOVE them now. That's probably not all that surprising, I don't think I'm alone on this one. Onions belong in a category along with red wine and fancy cheese, as your tastes mature you learn to love them.

Mmmm now I need a snack. Red wine and onions anyone?

Thanks to Earl and Cookie for the "This is..." theme this week.

I Want One!

2008-10-24T18:56:00.002-04:00

Mike sent this pic my way today knowing I would melt when I saw it. I want one.

It's a CAKE people!

2008-10-22T23:25:00.004-04:00

I have created some extremely distasteful Halloween props in my lifetime. I can't help but cringe when I think of one in particular that did not amuse my mom... I was dressed as the angel of death and left the house on my way to a party carrying a prop that involved a naked doll, fake blood, a knife and a platter - use your imagination.

It takes a lot to gross me out and Halloween is a time when I think the grossest of the gross is expected and applauded. This, my friends takes the cake (no pun intended) for nastiest cake design ever.

Yes it really is edible. YUM YUM! Interested in making one for yourself? Check out the recipe here.

Weird Obsession

2008-10-20T21:05:00.004-04:00

Original Flickr Photos Uploaded By: 1. lets swing :), 2. Two Mills, 3. zero gravity, 4. Morey's Pier, 5. Ride In Action, 6. CNE Swings, 7. Under The Table & Dreaming, 8. Swing in Motion 1, 9. swingtown

I don't know what has gotten into me, for the last month I can't get amusement park swings out of my mind. Bizarre huh? I think I've weirded Mike out by talking about them on multiple occasions.

I haven't been to an amusement park in 8 years (insert sob here) and I didn't even ride the swings the last time I went. What can I do to quench my thirst for a ride on the swings? Will I have to wait until next summer?!

Proud Mama

2008-10-19T17:13:00.003-04:00

I'm so happy with my latest design! The button is fabulous isn't it? Thanks mom. To give you and idea of the size the button is 1 1/4 inches across. This sweet little lady is all mine but I'll definitely be creating more to put in the shop asap! She still needs a name... I'm leaning towards Lola.

This is my favourite film

2008-10-18T12:32:00.005-04:00

I knew someone would eventually choose the topic of favourite film for the "This is..." meme and the day has come. "What's your favourite film?" is one of my lease favourite questions because I don't have a simple answer. I have watched what seems like a million movies in my lifetime and I can't seem to choose a favourite.

Since Hokey has taken the time to pick the topic for the week I'm going to try my best to narrow down my list of loved flicks.

Fav Musical
This one is easy. Some of you may remember my post about the best movie musical ever: Across the Universe. It is by far the best when it comes to musicals. No point in arguing with me because I'm right and anyone who disagrees is wrong with a capital W. If you haven't seen it be sure to rent it and be prepared to fall madly in love with Jim Sturgess.

Hot hot hot!

The story is good, the soundtrack is phenomenal (Beatles all through but sounding better than the originals thanks to these amazing performers) and well, Jim Sturgess.

Horror
I LOVE scary movies. I've loved them since I was a kid. More often than not my evenings filled with scary movies would be followed up by even scarier nightmares. My parents were saints, they would always come in and comfort the maniac child although I'm certain there were many times when they were tempted to smother me with my pillow considering the nightmares were self-inflicted. The nightmares were awful but they were the result of something wonderful: horror flicks.

Choosing one favourite horror movie is not easy so I've narrowed it down to two:

The Exorcist

Poltergeist
I loved the Poltergeist movies when I was a kid, they freaked me out like you wouldn't believe and the clown with the moving head at the end of either the 2nd or 3rd movie caused me to rip the hanging clown on a swing from my bedroom ceiling and worsened my already evident clown issues.

Comedies
Old School is in my top ten for sure

And of course the classic: Ferris Bueller's Day Off

Best Raindy Day Movie
My mom's favourite movie is definitely one of mine too so I can't end this post without including The Goonies

I could go on and on but that's enough for today. What are YOUR favourite movies?

Kanga's AQUA Framed Bracelet

2008-10-18T11:44:00.005-04:00

I'm sure you have noticed the Fab Pick of the Week located on the right hand side of this page. I am going to continue choosing lovely items once a week to feature but in addition I will be creating a post repeating exactly what you see on the sidebar. This way if you have a burning desire to be reminded of a particular artist/shop you can click on the label of Etsy and see all of the previous Fab Picks. Why I feel compelled to explain this to you I don't know, I'm sure you would have figured it out on your own but now that my fingers have gone to all the trouble of typing this out I don't want to insult them by deleting it.

Onto the stunning feature of last week:

I'm a sucker for anything aqua so when I stumbled across this beautiful bracelet by Kanga I was smitten! Be sure to check out the matching earrings and loads of other stunning pieces at Kanga's etsy shop.

Blogtoberfest Fave Friday

2008-10-17T16:40:00.004-04:00

Drewzel at Blog Portion declared today to as Blogtoberfest Fave Friday and suggested that people post one of their all time favourite songs. One of the best songs ever is Eddy Grant's kickass Electric Avenue. Press play and shake your thang people!

Happy Birthday Tanya!

2008-10-16T17:16:00.002-04:00

I'm on a roll of forgetfulness. One of the most fabulous women in my life is living in Russia and it was her 29th birthday on Tuesday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY TANYA! This hottie decided to tattoo your beautiful face on his beautiful body. I tried to wrap him up and ship him to Russia for you but he refused to fold himself into a packing box. How rude.

I hope you had a stupendous birthday Tanya, you deserve only the best darlin!

Make a Difference

2008-10-15T22:56:00.003-04:00

Unless you were just born or have been living under a rock you are aware of the fact that poverty is a serious issue affecting individuals across the globe . It's easy to say that you are concerned but whether you choose to take action to try and make a difference is another story.

I'll admit that I'm guilty of talking the talk and not walking the walk. Yes I want to make a difference but I really don't do much to actually make this happen. I donate food to my local food bank, I donate small amounts of money when people ask for my support for one fundraiser or another, I toss change into an open palm every now and then, and I've talked about volunteering (talked being the key word). I know I should find some time to help out with those less fortunate but I'm greedy when it comes to my free time because I have so little of it.

Basically what I'm sheepishly admitting is that I want to find a way to contribute to change without leaving my couch. It just so happens that I have found one way to do this: Kiva.

"Kiva is the world's first person-to-person micro-lending website, empowering individuals to lend directly to unique entrepreneurs in the developing world." What better way to help people than to help them help themselves.

Please take a moment to visit Kiva's site and consider loaning some cash to someone who needs a little help. You can contribute to change without even leaving your living room.

Bloggers Unite

2008-10-14T07:00:00.000-04:00

Blog Action Day 2008 Poverty from Blog Action Day on Vimeo.

October 15th (that's tomorrow ladies and gentlemen) is Blog Action Day. Watch the video, visit the site and join the world of bloggers in raising awareness about the global issue of poverty.

VOTE!

2008-10-13T16:34:00.005-04:00

originally uploaded by skippyjon

October 14th is election day in Canada so get out there and vote people. You have no right to bitch about Bush-loving Harper unless you cast a vote.

If you haven't registered to vote it's not too late. Head to your nearest polling station tomorrow and bring along government issued photo ID or two pieces of ID (one with your name and address and another with your name and signature), you can register right then and there.

This is...my current reading material.

2008-10-12T09:17:00.005-04:00

Photo credits: 1. Water for Elephants, 2. { ضريبـة النجـاح , !, 3. Love.Twilight., 4. Vintage Munchkin

I'm usually a one-book-at-a-time sort of girl but lately I've been reading multiple books at once; it seems to be working for me.

Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen is a phenomenal read, one of those books you pick up and can't put down. I read it while applying my make-up in the morning (no easy task), eating, and cooking mostly. Awesome read. Thanks to Reebs and her books club for recommending this one.

Textbooks, textbooks and more textbooks. My bachelor of ed. program ~~forces~~ encourages me to read a zillion pages of material on a daily basis: teaching math, literature and science; child psychology; curriculum documents for all eight subjects; how to create an equitable environment; teaching ELL and MORE! Don't get me wrong, it's all good stuff but there is just no way it's all going to stick in my brain. At least I'll know where to locate the info when a time that I need it comes along.

Stephenie Meyer's Twilight series is one that my friend Jackie introduced to me while I was visiting her in August. Vampires and werewolves?! I'm in. I've always had a thing for vampires. I just finished reading the second book in the series and can't wait to get my paws on the third.

Goggles by Ezra Jack Keats is a children's book that I am using this week for shared reading with my 3/4 class. Would I recommend it? Probably not but it works well for my purposes.

In the next couple weeks I intend to read A Venetian Affair by Andrea Di Robilant and the classic Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte. I'll be sure to post my thoughts on both.

Thanks to My Champagne Dreams (a fabulous blog that I had never visited until now; I'll be sure to return) for choosing the theme for "This is..." this week.

Jabbering Jaime

Moving Day!

Here and There

Gingham Skies New Style

Fab Pick of Last Week

Two Years Today

Photolicious

Feelin It

Mmmm This Week

Sounds Like Candy

Fab Pick of Last Week

No Doubt About It

Sew Lovely!

Is it really only January?!

Mmmmmusique

More Wallpaper

Keep an Eye Out for Little People

Mmmm This Week

Likey Lykkee Li

Fab Pick of Last Week

Brilliant!

Ann Coulter: Wicked Witch of the Right-Wing

Why I Love Grade One

Tantalizing Tuesday

*insert sarcasm here* I Know You're Dying to Know...

A Terrific Taste of India

Fab Pick of Last Week

ME! ME! ME!

Keeping Track of the Days

Tantalizing Tuesdays are Biggity Back!

An Adorable Girl with a Wonderful Mission

Soy Good

It'll Make You Giggle

Fab Pick of Last Week

Whispered Sweet Nothings

This Makes Me Seriously Consider French Immersion for My Invisible Child

Rocking In 2009!

P.S. I Loved It

Delish Dutch Apple Pie

Fab Pick of Last Week

Happy Holidays!

Happy Birthday Big Bro!!

Christmas with the Crazies

Oh So Sweet Tags

Mushrooms and Snails and Tiny Pig Tails

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE!

Gamer Love Song

Easy & Delish = Danger

Santa's Message to My Man

Fab Pick of Last Week.... or was it two weeks ago?

Mmmm Buttons

And the WINNER is...

A Big One!

ENTER TO WIN!!

A Sticky Star

Ania's the New Girl On the Block

ALIEN STOCKING GIVEAWAY!!

Slap a Stamp On It

Christmas Elf

From Me to You!

One Year Wiser!

Last Week's Fab Pick

PB & Chocolate

Weekend SALE!

go Go GO!

This is... late

New Girl On the Block

Can't Get Enough!

Last Week's Fab Pick - Cozy Arms

ANUS!

More Freebies!

This is... my favourite quote

Special Order

Snip It Real Good

Pick Me Please!

Who Am I?

Cravings

What's There to Be Thankful For?

This is... a favourite recipe I would like to share

Halloween Hangover

insert sarcasm here I Know You're Dying to Know...