[wool and sticks]

2011-09-15T17:49:00.002-04:00

Things have been quiet here, because I moved here.

Rock and Roll San Diego

2011-06-07T00:34:00.000-04:00

Around 4 months, semi on a whim, I signed up for a half marathon. I was not really a runner at the time and my longest run was a 6 miler that was a bit of a fluke. Prior to that, I had only run 2 miles.

Fast forward 4 months, and yesterday was race day. Running my first half marathon was amazing. It was inspiring and difficult. I learned so much about myself in those 13.1 (13.43 according to my garmin) miles and I had some moments where it was nearly impossible to imagine taking one more step but in the end I did it, I crossed the finish line.

There were so many awe inspiring moments, seeing one man with 2 prosthetic arms and a leg running the full, seeing a runner pulling another runner to the finish, seeing people of all ages and sizes running and following in the footsteps of some amazing elite runners.

The day was so amazing, and I am already considering what I will do differently next time. In case you are wondering, next time is 10/16/11.

Start Line

Going strong at mile 8

A Love Affair

2011-06-02T15:34:00.000-04:00

Some time ago Jacob casually asked what I thought about moving to California. There was a very promising job opportunity for him here and well, it is California.

While we had (have) friends and family we love in Buffalo, it no longer felt like home without my parents and I almost always feel the loss of them hanging over my shoulder. While we were excited to move, I was pretty nervous. I had not been to San Diego in 17 years, we were signing a lease for a house sight unseen, and I basically knew no one (I do have some family here but we were not moving to an area very close to them) and we had no time to visit before our move.

We bid our old house farewell

Got on a plane

and said hello to this...

this...

and this...

It has been 1 year since our our move and in some ways it feels like we have always been here. Other times I look around and feel lucky and amazed that I get to live here.

San Diego has been wonderful to us, I immediately made some amazing friends, these women inspire me and welcomed my family and I into their lives with wide open, loving arms.

We are in such a wonderful place.

It's Been Awhile....again

2011-05-25T17:20:00.000-04:00

I am not doing so well with this blogging thing, am I?

We have been busy and I do have many things to share, I (to often) find myself not spending the time I should be productive doing things that are time wasters. I have been trying to remedy this with a slick new to-do list (Remember the Milk, found via Jenna) that works on my laptop, syncs to my phone and will also sync to my awesome new iPad (if it ever arrives...) I was a very loyal paper to-do list girl but RTM is changing all that.

I have also not been eating as well as I should be and that is a huge contributing factor to my laziness. That is slowly changing though.

I also have hit the taper phase of race training which is proving to be its own challenge.

On that note, maybe I should be do something productive.

Some Photos

2011-04-22T16:14:00.000-04:00

This week has been very low-key. K got over her illness just in time for me to get sick. Luckily, it was just a cold but still, when you are home with a toddler, a cold is pretty miserable. K was wonderful all week, pretty content to read stories and lay low. I really appreciated that.

Some photos from our week:

Train Run

2011-04-17T20:21:00.000-04:00

This has not been a stellar weekend. We have a sick toddler on our hands, which is bad enough, but we were also supposed to travel east to see family and friends and spend Passover with them. We really tried to make things work and did not officially call things off until we were in the security line at the airport. We went to the airport with a toddler who was clearly sick (and vomiting) which was, in retrospect, maybe not the best parenting, but we were so hoping for a miraculous recovery. It did not happen. To say we were disappointed was an understatement and letting everyone know was also very sad.

We have laid low the past few days, and while a fever is lingering, K is acting like herself again.

There was one, small consolation to remaining in sunny SoCal this weekend...the train run. For those who do not know, I am training for my first half-marathon. (For anyone who would like to donate toward my fundraising goal, you can do so here.) With training groups, it seems to be a rite of passage to do a train run. Yesterday, I woke up very early and headed out of the house to the train station.

See, really early...

We boarded the train to Oceanside and well, when we got off the train, it was time to run back. For my half marathon, I ran 11 miles (I did not start my garmin at the start) while those training for the full ran a full 16. This has been my longest run to date and it was quite hot out (about 87 when we finished.) What a great experience, while not the same as spending time with our loved ones, it was a great way to spend a morning.

Drive By Update

2011-04-10T10:40:00.000-04:00

Ok, ok, I have been a total slacker. I also let my domain expire but it should be fixed now.

Anyways, things are going well down here. I have been knitting, cooking and baking some new things, enjoying the gorgeous weather and spending time with friends. Oh, and running. I owe everyone (and myself a better update) and I will do so this week. In the meantime, in the spirit of spring cleaning, take a look at this list.

Where to Donate Your Stuff: 101 Places Your Clutter Can Do Good

Meals for the Week

2011-01-12T09:56:00.000-05:00

Well, we never got around to that salmon last week (and I didn't buy it) so I think that will be appearing again this week.

This is also a short week of meal plans since we are headed to Colorado for a long weekend on Saturday. Our old neighbors moved to Colorado this summer and we are headed for a visit. I am so excited!

Big Batch Veggie Soup
Turkey Tacos
Slow Roasted Salmon
Pancakes

No Poo

2011-01-11T15:21:00.000-05:00

Some time ago, I went shampoo free, instead using baking soda to "wash" my hair and apple cider vinegar to condition it. There are many reasons to give up shampoo and I was on board to give things a try. I gave it a shot for awhile but things were not working well and I went back to shampoo.

For awhile I used Lush's solid shampoo bars and I really like the solid part of them. I liked how easy they were for traveling, that they lasted a lot longer than regular shampoo and that they were zero waste. I also did not like how they contain SLS, which bugs me a little bit. I always felt Lush tried to promote themselves as a green company (you can search for vegan products and they always emphasize no waste) and it annoyed me so many things still have SLS. Anyways...after some time I also felt like my hair never looked or felt clean. I tried a bunch of other shampoos and I was dissatisfied. I also tried to avoid conventional shampoos and stuck with more natural alternatives.

Then last week I was asking around for shampoo suggestions and no poo came up. I was also directed to a video that I watched. I watched some other similar videos (I really liked this one) as well and realized I had been doing things wrong (more baking soda, less vinegar and only on the ends) and decided to try it again. In the shower, I sectioned my hair when applying the baking soda and when I rinsed my hair felt really clean. When my hair dried, I was pretty surprised, it was soft, shiny and my waves dried perfectly. My hair also had almost no tangles when combing after showering (tangles were always an issue before, even with expensive conditioner.) Jacob even commented on how nice my hair looked that night and he asked what I did differently.

So there you go, I think I am set on this no shampoo thing.

Loving...

2011-01-07T11:36:00.000-05:00

image found via soulemama

This recipe for homemade cleaning spray. (I plan to make soak inexpensive washcloths in the solution to make DIY cleaning wipes) and this recipe for homemade veggie wash.

My favorite lentil soup recipe (I also like the article this recipe was included in about makeup guru Bobbi Brown and how she keeps her life healthy)

This idea on avoiding the grocery store. I would love to implement more of this into our daily lives.

This water bottle, what a way to keep great inspiration nearby.

Confession

2011-01-06T11:22:00.000-05:00

Confession time: I have a problem with toothpaste. I am incapable of squeezing a toothpaste tube without making a gigantic mess all over the tube. Jacob and I do not share toothpaste as a result of this (well this and because we prefer different brands.) It does not matter what kind of tube it is, flip top, screw top, whatever, it always results in a mess.

Now I have a new toothpaste problem. I was doing pretty well keeping the top clean (I could even get the top back on!) but somehow, the tube has sprung a leak in the middle and toothpaste is leaking out the side. It leaks when I squeeze the tube but I have noticed that it also oozes out on its own. The tube is a mess and I really just cannot use it without be covered in toothpaste.

Not the best photo but see the toothpaste coming out!

Guess I need to buy more toothpaste.

Meals for the Week

2011-01-05T09:36:00.000-05:00

I usually do my meal plans Wednesday-Wednesday since I grocery shop and our CSA box is delivered on Wednesdays.

This week we have:
Sweet Potato Quesadillas
Turkey Cabbage Cups
Chicken Veggie Rice Soup
Roasted Veggie Hummus Wraps
Couscous with lentils, fennel and olives
Slow Roasted Salmon

2011 Goals

2011-01-01T07:42:00.002-05:00

image via lobotome

(fun fact, I also have a post card of this print on my fridge)

New Years is right around the corner (hey did you know on January 1st, it will be 1/1/11) so it is time to get down to business with my goals for the year.

[Sweating]

Run some 5k's
Do an unassisted pullup
Complete the 200 sit up and 100 pushup challenges (oh wow, there is a 25 pull up program starting too, I will be all over that!)
More yoga

[Spending]

Stick with my spending plan (I have been really good about tracking my spending, but I would really like to trim things. For this I will be using You Need a Budget. I was using a self-created excel file which worked, but YNAB is a bit more sophisticated and it allows me to track various account without creating a ton of spreadsheets. While YNAB is slightly spendy, I found it was worth it after playing around with the trial.)
Save an additional $700 this year (on top of what we are already saving)
Pay off my student loan (it is small and annoying)
Complete 1 spending hiatus

[Simplify]

Continue to get rid of things we do not need/use
Continue using meal plans to cut down on random take out
Join a new CSA (already selected, and this one delivers to my house!)

Checking In

2010-12-29T19:42:00.000-05:00

The last of our holiday visitors departed today and now the house seems very, very quiet. We really enjoyed having our first San Diego visitors and loved showing off our new city. We only did a small fraction of the things we wanted to but that gives us a lot to look forward to next time.

It was great to spend time with family and see how much Kennedy enjoyed having both her grandparents and her aunt here ready to play all the time.

We took it easy today, it is rainy and it was a good day to rest and catch up before transitioning back to our regular routine.

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and has a happy (and safe!) New Years!

Snack Day

2010-12-21T15:56:00.000-05:00

image found here

It is raining in Southern California, it is raining a lot. I guess all this rain is the east coast equivalent of snow. Yesterday I heard reports of 68 accidents on the freeways. All this rain has made me really want rainboots, even more than I did previously.

Anyways, there is not a ton to do here when it rains. We do have memberships to various museums but we are having out of town visitors at the end of the week and we need to save those activities for fun rainy day backups (the weather is looking great for the week's end but I still want indoor backups, you never know!) so I do not want to burn through that stuff now.

Instead, Kennedy and I got to work this morning making some (healthy) snacks. I am inspired by all the bloggers out there putting forth the effort to really make homemade snacks for their families. I also feel so much better when I really limit the processed food I eat. This morning Kennedy and I made crackers from my friend Holly's recipe. For this recipe, I used water instead of milk and they turned out amazing. Next time I want to triple the recipe. I love how they came out with the pasta maker but I think for a huge batch, rolling them by hand may be faster. I also want to make them again without cheese since dairy and I do not get along well. I plan to make some hummus to go with these.

We also made 3 sorbets (mango, strawberry and blueberry) to have for our guests. I used my breakfast sorbet recipe and Kennedy ate a good amount of the blueberry on a waffle for lunch.

We also made a huge batch of homemade Lara bars. My friend Sarah gave me some great recipes and I pulled them from there. We made cherry almond and pb&j. I think the pb&j came out better (I processed them a lot longer in the food processor and they clumped together much better) but both tasted great. I wanted to smoosh them into a pan and cut them but Kennedy was eager to help so we rolled them into balls. She had a blast helping me and this was something she could be involved with every step of the way. While this is not the same recipe I used, it is pretty much the same. I tripled all the batches and got all my ingredients at Trader Joes. Even with tripling the batches, I had ingredients left over.

Making all these snacks was so simple and a good way to spend a rainy morning!

New Year Goals

2010-12-20T15:19:00.001-05:00

image via Ink and Wit

I like New Years resolutions (well, goals) mostly because I like a fresh start and there is nothing better than the start of a new year for a clean slate.

I have a few goals for myself for the year. This year I'd like to run some 5k's, trim the excess fat from my budget (now that I am in the habit of using one and tracking things) go vegetarian, make and eat healthier snacks for Kennedy and I and eliminate single use plastic bags and snack items (like those yogurt tubes) from our life.

In the interest of trying something new, I also purchased the book "Be the Change You Want to See in the World" which has an idea a day of different things you can do to improve yourself and the world at large. I have resisted flipping through the book so I can be surprised about what is ahead.

In the effort of getting ahead and working toward my goal of trimming my budget, I unsubscribed from a bunch of email lists this morning that always try to lure people in with sales (um, The Gap!) so I no longer need to see them.

Does anyone else make new years resolutions?

Breakfast Sorbet + Links

2010-12-15T00:26:00.000-05:00

We have reached a bit of a stalemate in this house when it comes to mealtimes. Kennedy just does not want to eat. Previous favorites will not be consumed and she tends to eat her meals as snacks and most of her snack requests are bordering on not so healthy choices and I knew we reached a breaking point when yesterday, upon waking, she declared she wanted ice cream for breakfast.

Not all her requests are bad, tonight she wanted a fruitgrape (grapefruit) but she refused to eat dinner in order to be hungry and get a grapefruit snack. She does do well eating veggies and I do wash and cut a ton of them at once for easy snacking, but she also loves fruit leather and will plow through them. The chocolate chips used as a potty reward have been abused lately and we have since switched to stickers. I admit to being somewhat at fault, because it is important for her to eat but I do need to make more of an effort to have better snacks on hand.

Anyways, back to the matter at hand, ice cream for breakfast. While that idea got vetoed, I did look for some alternatives and found a recipe for a yogurt sorbet that only contained yogurt, strawberries and sugar. I eliminated the sugar and whipped this up. I dumped a fairly large amount a top a whole grain waffle and Kennedy devoured it. The leftovers froze really well, with no graininess at all and she ate some more of it this morning. Waffle+yogurt+strawberries, win-win-win. She thinks she is getting some sort of frozen sugary treat and I know she is eating some good stuff.

To make it I used a half cup plain nonfat yogurt and half a pound frozen strawberries. I put them in the blender and blended until thoroughly blended. **Disclaimer, I have a vitamix and this is a vitamix recipe so I am not sure how it will do in another blender**

Toddler Approved

Some things to share:

Here is a good tutorial on gift wrapping

An amazing granola recipe

Babysitter info forms for when you are out

How to reduce plastic in children's dinnerware

A Bad Run

2010-12-08T18:06:00.000-05:00

image via lululemon

I had a terrible run today. I was ready to go, excited for my workout and the moment I got going everything felt off. I could not find my stride, my legs and muscles hurt, my music was wrong (I listen to the same 9 songs when I run, this morning I tried something new and it didn't work for me) and my inner critic was being a real asshole.

I tried really hard to push through but in the end, I called it quits early. I am pretty disappointed which is silly, bad runs and workouts happen. I am trying to step back and learn from this so next time I have a better run.

It's Been Awhile

2010-12-08T00:12:00.000-05:00

Hello out there, it has been awhile and I have totally slacked off on blogging. Inspired by a few friends, I really want to get back to it.

Let's do a brief catch up, shall we? The biggest news (that I have shared) was our big cross country move from New York to California about 6 months ago. San Diego has been quite good to us and we have settled in, it really feels like home.

Other things keeping me busy:

Various activities with K, music, swim, park days, and just generally enjoying being able to be outside anytime we want.
Reading! I was gifted a Kindle for Hanukkah and I have been reading like mad. That also means I have not been knitting much. I do have a few things on the needles but I will talk about them another time. I also knit a bunch of baby items for my good friend Cindy (who is due so so soon!)
Running (and exercise in general.) Unlike my gym in Buffalo, my gym here has both morning and afternoon babysitting hours and I love it. I have really gotten back into lifting weights which feels great. I feel so much stronger and healthier. I also started running again and have been following Couch to 5k. I was doing great and then we had to make an emergency trip to the East Coast and then K and I got sick which totally derailed me. I started over and I am at the end of week 3. I have been taking things a bit slower than my first go at it since I increased my speed by a full MPH this time around.

So that's that, thanks for sticking by while I was busy elsewhere. I really want to be back posting on a more regular basis. See you all soon!

2010-08-20T19:17:00.000-04:00

It's been awhile. Since moving, my knitting has scaled itself back quite a bit and my free time has been taken up by other things.

That said, I am starting a different blog at a new address. As soon as it is up and running and I will let everyone know.

It will be a few weeks since I am recovering from salmonella poisoning.

Thanks for sticking around.

Off/On

2010-07-06T16:10:00.000-04:00

After moving, and being surrounded by new stores with new items, my healthy eating got a bit derailed. My daily activity has been kicked up a notch because of the weather and how easy it is to be outside and active so that offset my less than stellar eating habits. Last week, I did a sample personal training session at the gym and it went terribly. I felt the trainer pushed way to hard and set my concerns and discomfort aside (and I had been seeing a trainer 2x a week before moving so I am used to being pushed but this was way to much to fast) and I ended up ending the session early. I was so sore that night that walking was difficult and the next 2 days were almost unbearable. Even now, 5 days later, I am still not feeling 100%.

While my weight has remained steady, I have just not been feeling 100% and my energy and body could use a little tweaking. So with that, I am pulling myself back onto the wagon and holding on. I am ready for the ride.

Happy Weekend

2010-07-03T10:52:00.000-04:00

Trying New Things

2010-06-24T23:15:00.000-04:00

One thing I really love about having moved is that it is a good time to try new things. I am going to a book club next month and today, inspired by a conversation with a new friend decided to look into something I have been interested in but never did. Before our move, it was easy to fall into a rut but now everything is new, and different. While I always felt comfortable doing things on my own, it does make it a bit easier when I can declare "Oh, I just moved!"

More on these things later...

Quickly

2010-06-20T17:05:00.000-04:00

Received my package of LobotoMe notepads, I am seriously loving them. Expect a review soon.
I have been signing K and I up for various classes...music, swimming, and I am looking into yoga for her and I.
I am finally back into a gym routine and I am feeling good. I went to spinning this morning and was pleased to make it through the entire class. The only issue is that my SPD shoes are way to small and I need new ones.
I seriously love these earrings. They are just my style too.
Speaking of style, I just did another closet purge. I noticed all my clothes are black, gray or beige. I used to try to fight it but this is just what seems to work for me. San Diego is good for my style as I can wear my favorite clothes year round. I can also wear flats all the time, summer, winter, whenever.
Next week I take my license exam for my California drivers license. Wish me luck.
And finally, a great big Happy Fathers Day to all the dad's out there! We will be celebrating poolside at my aunt and uncle's this evening.

On The Move

2010-06-17T00:29:00.000-04:00

One thing about having totally uprooted and moved is the chance to start over. To really start over, to clean house of all those bad habits and all the clutter and stuff no longer needed. While you do not need to move to do this, it does seem a lot easier.

Our current house is alot smaller than the one we left behind so as I unpack, I am trying to (again) scrutinize everything and see if it is needed or not. In our current home, it is very important for everything to have a place and if I cannot find a place for it, we probably do not need it. While this challenge is a bit daunting, I am happy with it. Right now, our spaces are clean, organized and (in the unpacked and organized areas) I do know where everything is and all items have a home.

Other things about our house I am loving...the ice maker+water filter/the water softener (who knew I could love soft water, my skin feels better, our clothes are cleaner and our diapers, well I could go on about them for a long time)/the sunshine that pours in through the windows/the kitchen made for cooking/the proximity to Trader Joes.

Other random bits:

I ordered a MomMe kit and I am quite excited for it to arrive.
Speaking of lists, I have modified my to-do list making to that of the GSD method.
When we moved, we got a new bed, and it is heavenly. We also got new sheets and bedding, and it matches, and it makes me feel so adult. Nice sheets do make a difference.

A Return

2010-06-14T16:52:00.000-04:00

I miss blogging and I have been terrible at making time for it.

Lately:

We have been getting settled from the move and exploring San Diego
I have been very slowly getting back into a steady exercise routine (and tonight I am going to spinning, cannot wait!)
I have been eating quite well, though it is hard not to here. The produce is inexpensive and delicious.
I am loving having a Trader Joes and their trail mix is my new favorite thing.

What has everyone else been doing?

Today

2010-06-07T23:50:00.000-04:00

unpacking/awesome cousin time/furniture assembly/in n out burger/trader joes/awesome turkey+havarti w. dill/my chemex/a lovely housewarming gift/cats arrival/sunshine/warm days/cool nights/green juice

This/That

2010-05-30T14:50:00.000-04:00

81+packing+no ac sucks!
We got a huge bag of m&m's in the mail for referring someone to Angies List.
My Lush shampoo came.
We are in great shape packing wise
I kicked ass at the gym and then canceled our membership but they gave me enough passes for the rest of the time we are here.
I have a trainer apt on June 1, we leave June 3, wishful thinking?
I had a lovely afternoon with my mother in law and a friend of hers to see Babies.
I ~~need to order~~ ordered change of address cards.
I have also been coveting one of these for like 2 years. Now I have 20% off coupon for the store + paypal so happy housewarming to me (it is getting shipped to the new house)
Ikea delivers, so we can go pick out all our furniture Thursday and have it delivered Friday....yay.
I called Southwest to ~~bug~~ ~~ask them~~ make them reassure me that our layover is sufficient time (35 minutes) for our stuff to get transferred and if it is not that it will arrive on a later flight that day (we arrive in SD at 10:30 am) and to find out about being met at the gate and driven to the new one. Toddler+many carryons+diaper changes, etc+35 minute layover scares me. The woman was so reassuring and now I can stop stressing.
I recently found the best skincare for my skin (also, if you fill out their skin eval, they send you all the recommended products as samples) and the best makeup. The makeup makes you look like you are wearing none, it is weightless and just amazing. I love the dream tint.

I just cannot believe I am moving. I have lived here my whole life. (Speaking of which, Southwest nicely emailed me to remind me our flight is coming up, how thoughtful of them)

I am ready to go in some odd ways. My carry on bag is set to go along with my plane outfit. I am wearing my all time favorite pants and a tank. I tend to be cold and these pants are nice and light. They also do not stretch out in the knees. Seriously, they worth every single penny.

Excited+Sad+Moments of sheer terror.

Moving

2010-05-24T21:05:00.000-04:00

So, is anyone still out there? Our move has kept me quite busy =, between packing, donating stuff, selling stuff and our normal day to day activities, I am quite tired at the end of the day. We are only taking about 1/3 of the stuff we have in this house and getting rid of things and culling our stuff down to things we love and use has been great. Lately I keep thinking a lot about my clothing and wardrobe and I am considering another edit before the final packing. I also want to make a list of what may be missing so when I am out shopping, I am buying less but better quality.

During this whole process, I have been trying to stick to my normal routine (wakeup, gym, errands, lunch, nap for K and sometimes me, focused packing for 2 hours or so, dinner, nighttime stuff) and that includes the gym and normal meals. It is really making a difference. I am also antsy about joining a gym right away when we get to SD, I am very nervous about breaking my routine. I am not worried about going back to the gym more that our stuff won't arrive for some time and well, I need something to do.

I have some new favorite things I have found and I am just obsessing like mad over but I will save that for another time.

An Announcement

2010-05-10T14:30:00.000-04:00

I have been a terrible blogger but it is not without reason. In less than a month, we will be moving to sunny southern California. My days have been filled with boxes and bags and countless hours on the phone getting estimates for shipping cars, moving companies and pet relocation services. At the end of the day I am just so tired I can't bring myself to sit in front of the computer for any reason.

My house has been a total disaster and I took some time today to vacuum and clean things up a little bit. I feel better when I look around and see some clean areas and not sure piles of stuff all over the place.

So my posts will be spotty over the next month or so but I promise to try and pop in to say hello.

Habits and Inspiration

2010-04-22T13:56:00.000-04:00

I have been pretty quiet lately. I would love to be a blogger that posts daily but I have, at times, felt that it felt forced, like I was searching for anything to post just to have posted daily. It feels a bit fake.

Moving along, I have been having some dental issues and after a second opinion on the matter it seems like things may be resolved. I hope. I also found out that I have a pretty bad oral infection from said dental matter so that may explain my random and unexplained feeling of tired and general worn-downness.

I have really stepped up my fitness game lately and I am seeing some major gains. I have been working on a dietary overhaul, especially increasing my protein, and I have been feeling great. I have been making this amazing higher protein smoothie for breakfast and I really look forward to it post workout. This is also my other current breakfast/snack/whenever fav.

Other things inspiring me lately are:
This post from LobotoME which is a bit of a mish mosh of things and there are some great links. I can really relate to needing to pull back and focus on other things not internet/technology related. I have been pulled into the computer looking mindlessly for far to long and it is coming at the expense of things I'd rather be doing. Like knitting. Or reading. Or watching lame tv.

This post on habits. It has really made me think about what things I would like to make habitual, more engrained. More on that another time.

I have also been loving the Lululemon manifesto. Words to live by.

Cravings...

2010-04-16T16:32:00.000-04:00

Some things I am currently craving...

This necklace (via Nordstrom)

Perfection in a carry on (via Valhallabrooklyn)

Also, I could really go for some fluer de sel caramels. I think I am going to make some tomorrow.

Anything you are craving right now?

2010-04-15T20:19:00.000-04:00

I have been quiet, I know. I have been pretty cranky between all the bank issues and the dentist issues. I feel like it is just better to be silent than moody.

Anyways, check out my guest post on my friend Lindsey's blog, High Heeled Mom.

I had a photo to share of some inspiring and amazingly styled bookcases but I can't find where I pulled it from so tomorrow.

I also (finally) finished a sweater for K so I need to get that photographed and share it. First I need to block it since the hem is curling and she likes to play with it so it ends up rolled past her belly button. Good thing she is 2, and cute.

Lastly, I am looking for some guest bloggers. If interested, drop me a line at sarah@woolandsticks.com

2010-04-12T21:49:00.000-04:00

Today was not a very good day for me and at the end of it I feel pretty frustrated. Basically, my debit card number was stolen, the card (and money) replaced and it happened again, in less than 2 weeks. I am trying not to dwell on things but I am pretty happy today is over.

I hope everyone else had a great day!

A List

2010-04-08T21:52:00.000-04:00

I really don't have much to say...so a list...of totally random things

I am really enjoying my new sneakers.
K is adorable lately and even more helpful than usual. She is also very difficult when tired lately. She also loves balloons and asks for one each time we are at the grocery store.
I spent a small fortune on yogurt today.
I would love to win this.
My mouth is pretty sore after a frustrating visit to the dentist.

2010-04-06T21:37:00.000-04:00

This new layout is pretty snazzy, right?

Tonight I (finally) went and bought new running shoes. My old shoes, are quite old, I bought them when pregnant and K is now 2 so you do the math. That's bad, right. It is also a big no-no for a serious runner. I am not a serious runner but I want to be. I am using the c25k program and I am quite happy with it, it also has a nifty app that tells you when to walk and run and all that.

Lately my runs have been pretty miserable and I ~~am thinking~~ know it has to do with the terrible condition of my sneakers.

I am so excited to get my new ones on and go...we will see how tomorrow goes!

This and That

2010-04-05T21:16:00.000-04:00

I went to Target today and walked out spending less than $25.00. Impressive, no?

I also went grocery shopping this evening sans toddler. While I love her, and she does make an entertaining shopping buddy, it is difficult to really look at items and I tend to throw stuff in the cart, and I always forget something. I also tend to overspend because I am in a rush. Basically my plan is to get out alive.

It was so nice out today and I wanted to spend the afternoon playing so tonight we ate dinner at Wegmans (seriously, their cafe is fabulous) and then Jacob and Kennedy went home. It was enjoyable. I got some great deals and came home spending a record (low) amount. Fabulous.

I think I may need to return to solo grocery shopping.

_________________________________________

Keep an eye out for my new layout, coming soon!
I used a bit of my Anthro gift card to get this, I am hoping it is the cure for my matta obsession. (At least until winter)
If you are looking for a moisturizer for your face, this stuff is made of amazing. I could go on and on about it...

Menu for the Week

2010-04-04T18:25:00.000-04:00

I think I am going to start posting weekly menus again.

Monday
Sandwiches + Salad

Tuesday
Grilled Flank Steak + Smashed Potatoes + Asparagus

Wednesday
Pizza + Salad

Thursday
Lasagna + Bread + Salada

Friday
(homemade) Gnocchi with Sage Butter + Broccoli

Saturday
Leftover Pizza

Sunday
Leftover Lasagna

(tonight we had asparagus truffle risotto, bread and salad)

No Desser till...Mother's Day

2010-04-02T20:54:00.000-04:00

These lemon bars started it all...these lemon bars are also fantastic. By the way, if you make them, I was able to get the 1/4 cup of lemon juice out of 1 lemon with a reamer.

Anyways, tonight my husband ~~accused~~ kindly mentioned I have a bit of a dessert problem, and well, it is true. I love sweets, maybe a little to much and lately I have been a baking machine. It seems baking fills the downtime for K and I during the day but all these yummy treats are having a negative impact.

You see, I pay good money every month to see a trainer at the gym. I exercise during the week and all these desserts are making it hard to knock off the few excess pounds I want to shed. Baking and I are not getting along.

On Sunday we are saying goodbye to sweets and desserts...until Mothers' Day, with J's birthday being an exception. He also declared a moratorium on (unnecessary) baking for 3 months. Unless there is an event, no baking.

Sigh, I just saw a recipe I really wanted to make too. 3 months will go fast, right?

This and That

2010-04-01T09:02:00.001-04:00

You know those women in airports, who always look amazing. You know the ones I mean, bonus points if they have a kid or two.

I do not travel well. I always overpack and I always pack the wrong things. At home, I am generally a jeans a t-shirt girl but when I travel, I get all these grand illusions about fabulous outfits and I tend to pack things I just do not wear at home. It always turns out badly, I am almost always uncomfortable and self-conscious.

I really want to change my travel style (and no, I do not travel a lot, but I feel like traveling well is a good skill to have) and that means upgrades to some basic things (like moving beyond my Vera Bradley travel accessories.) The other day I saw this, and promptly fell in love. That is something a woman who travels well has.

I still need to post about K's second party, in the meantime, there are a few photos here. K got an owl purse for her birthday and she has been carrying it non-stop, it is quite adorable.

I am also dying for some skinny jeans, I think I may need to try these. (Jeans were not in the budget but I wore a hole in my favorite pair and well, that only leaves me with one other pair of jeans...)

I think I found the perfect moisturizer, well, ever.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-03-31T13:41:00.000-04:00

Weekend Snapshots: 2nd Birthday Party Edition

2010-03-29T09:31:00.001-04:00

Chocolate Chip Cookies...Upgraded

2010-03-26T09:00:00.000-04:00

I made these cookies the other day and wow, just wow. The best part about this recipe is that it has a secret ingredient. Or it did, since the secret is out.

This recipe was a great way to try out my homemade vanilla and homemade brown sugar.

I loved using my homemade ingredients and I'd like to believe they made a difference in the taste. I mean, don't these cookies look amazing?

(Destri's recipe can be found here, via My Favorite Things)

Bedtime and Bags

2010-03-25T22:37:00.000-04:00

Bedtime and has been really difficult lately. Then I ate way to many of those peanut butter swirl chips, my stomach hurts.

I don't think I ever mentioned my birthday gift on here and I really feel the need to gush over it. Jake bought me a new bag for my birthday, and I just adore it.

Larch Bag

The quality is amazing and the leather is buttery soft. Karin who is the designer is amazing to work with and I love that my bag is more of a one of a kind than a mass produced item. The crossbody strap is also great for those times that require toddler chasing.

I also purchased a clutch from the shop which is another piece I love.

Vigga Clutch

The sizing on this is pretty generous, I can easily fit my phone, cards, lipstick, pen, etc in there. It is great to thrown in a larger bag (or a diaper bag to pull out and feel more put together!) and it works great as a clutch/wallet combo.

Karin also sells bags sized for travel and I am debating one in the near future. I always admire those women who look pulled together when traveling (especially with children in tow) and I feel like a quality piece of luggage is a good place to start.

Be sure to check out Karin's shop, Valhallabrooklyn. Her work is impeccable and she is a dream to work with. If you don't see what you like, be sure to convo her as she is open to customs.

All images courtesy of Valhallabrooklyn

WIP Wednesday

2010-03-24T13:27:00.000-04:00

I have not talked about my knitting to much because I have been so bored with it. I have 2 projects in the works.

This is the beginning of a second sock...to match this one...

The yarn is by Selah in the colorway Beautiful Earth. I love watching the color changes.

I am also working on a shawl...

I cannot recommend this shawl pattern enough. It is Andrea's Shawl by Through the Loops. The construction is very interesting and it is knit from the bottom up so each row is decreased rather than increased. I am knitting it in Blue Moon Fiber Arts Socks that Rock Lightweight and it may be my new favorite sock yarn.

How to: Homemade Vanilla

2010-03-23T14:03:00.001-04:00

Homemade vanilla is so easy and much less expensive than commercial vanilla.

What you need:

Vodka (or rum) and a jar. I prefer mason jars and I have a lot of them hanging out in the basement.

and vanilla beans. You want to buy Madagascar vanilla beans to get the best vanilla. While they are pricier than other beans, the result is worth it and you can get 3-4 times the number of bottles of extract out of them for the same price as one commercial bottle of extract. If you are unable to locate vanilla beans locally, Penzey's has great beans.

Using a knife, split the beans in half lengthwise and put in a jar. Cover with vodka. I use 1 cup vodka to 3 beans. I also like to turn the jar on its' side so the beans are covered with the alcohol. Let sit for 6-8 weeks.

Then you have vanilla!

I use a funnel to bottle the extract. I get 3 bottles from 1 soaking of beans. I also reuse the same beans for a second batch of extract.

Label and get baking!

New Favorite Breakfast

2010-03-22T09:30:00.000-04:00

I have found breakfast nirvana...2 soft boiled eggs* pita and hummus.

I have had a lot of trouble getting my eggs boiled properly. I think I finally found the best method. Boil water, and then reduce to a simmer. Add eggs and cook for 5 minutes...perfect.

Hello...Goodbye

2010-03-19T21:24:00.000-04:00

Hello Spring (a day early)

Goodbye Winter

Quiet

2010-03-18T20:49:00.000-04:00

Lately, I just don't have much to say.

So a list...

I love this girl. All her posts are so happy and colorful. Love, love, love.
I have been coveting this lovely sweater for month's now. Months. But how many sweaters do I need in that style?
I am itching to make this, and this, and this too.
I need to make a lot of pancakes this weekend. More on this later.

The Spending Hiatus: Week 3

2010-03-17T15:17:00.000-04:00

Full disclosure here folks...things are not going well. Not at all. I am failing with this hiatus and feeling like a bit of a fool.

I need to start over, to recommit myself for the rest of this month and next month. This month only has, what 13 days left in it. I can do it....

How is everyone else doing?

A Letter

2010-03-16T12:57:00.000-04:00

Dear Anthropologie,
Please stop coming out with such amazing things. My wallet cannot handle it.

~Me

I may need to buy this or this. And I am giving serious consideration to this.

Mindful Consumption

2010-03-15T14:33:00.000-04:00

I am feeling a bit overwhelmed by stuff. The physical stuff, the toys are the floor that are neglected, the stuff in the basement just sitting there unused. You know what I mean, right?

I have been trying to follow the idea of only bringing what I love into our home, of being a mindful consumer and of buying quality over quantity.

I want to be surrounded by things that make me feel uplifted, fulfilled and make me happy, be it an object, an article of clothing, a relationship. After time, to much of this other stuff becomes toxic, it weighs you down. (Our basement is weighing me down!)

I think the beginning of a new season is a great time to start a renewal in our home. Out with the old and no longer needed and in with the new, but only the new that we need and love.

Just Had to Share This

2010-03-12T09:05:00.000-05:00

image via the sweeterie

Spending Hiatus: Week 1

2010-03-08T21:18:00.000-05:00

This week went ok. I did make a purchase today and I did a bit of shopping with some birthday money. I can totally justify my non-birthday money purchase though. Chico bag is having a great promo for their reusable bags, 5 for $15.

That makes the bags $3 each though it is grab bag style and you do not get to pick your bags. I like to keep these everywhere. I have 1 in my purse, and 2 in the diaper bag. I also like to "wrap" gifts in them and make them part of the gift. It has really helped cut down on the plastic bag habit.

How is everyone else doing?

(I am sure you are wondering about those birthday money purchases, aren't you. Well, I got a cute pair of gladiator style sandals and a cardi from UO)

Birthday Weekend

2010-03-07T17:26:00.000-05:00

I love birthday weekend. Only 2 days separate my birthday from my daughters and I love being able to share that with her. In order to feel like my birthday is not dedicated to her birthday party, we are holding it a few weeks from now and I am so excited for it!

I spent the morning making pancakes (for her party) and just well, doing nothing and it was perfect.

The rest of the weekend was jammed packed, looking at schools, a museum trip birthday celebrations with friends and family. Perfect.

Jacob also got it just right in the gift department. He got me the bag I have been coveting for months now and surprised me with a chest freezer. While not so glamorous I have really been wanting a freezer. I also got socks (a tradition and one that I love) and a gift certificate to Anthro which was a huge surprise. I am crippled with the choices.

I have been eying this for some time now but now I am not so sure. I want an everyday piece and I am not sure this is it. What do you think?

As for the rest of the day...Thai takeout for dinner, popcorn and the Oscars.

Does it really get any better?

Two

2010-03-05T12:35:00.003-05:00

My Little Big Girl

WIP Wednesday

2010-03-03T17:30:00.000-05:00

I think I may put my WIP Wednesday posts aside for a bit. I find myself dragging to update on projects on Wednesdays only and I would prefer to do it whenever I feel inspired to do so.
That being said, I do have 2 project photos to share but details about what they are and for whom are going to have to wait.

The first...

and the second...

Bits of random

2010-03-02T16:15:00.000-05:00

I have been seeing a trainer for about a month now and while I usually love it and look forward to the mild soreness the next day, I am feeling miserable today. I am so sore. It hurts to walk, to sit, to think.

The spending hiatus began yesterday and I um...spent money. I bought one of those wheely crate things that teachers use. Glamorous purchase, huh? You see, I lead these meetings once a month and I have a lot of stuff I need to carry and I have a toddler and well, this makes my life so much easier. I hope yesterday is not indicative of the rest of the hiatus.

Some friends of mine just found out they are having a boy and I could not be more excited for them. I predicted a boy since we only have one set of friends with a girl. It just seemed like a boy would fit that pattern.

I have been totally uninspired to cook dinner lately. I think it is because I am just tired of winter, and snow and gray skies. Seriously, where is spring?

Weekend Snapshots

2010-03-01T10:00:00.002-05:00

Spending Hiatus: Getting Ready

2010-02-25T08:32:00.000-05:00

March 1 is around the corner and I am going to do it, the spending hiatus. Now to set some ground rules for myself.

So no spending on non-essential items. (That includes magazines at the grocery store too.) Birthday gifts are ok and I have selected and budgeted for those gifts so I feel ok about it. I can also purchase anything else needed for K's party but that is not much.

We have memberships to a few museums and the zoo and I want to make better use of those in the next 2 months.

So that seems to be it....60 days and no non-essentials. Who is with me? Leave a comment below and if you have a blog, a link and I will get a list together, after all strength in numbers, right?

WIP Wednesday: Ravelympics Version

2010-02-24T13:35:00.000-05:00

I know it doesn't look like much more than a blob but I am only 2 rows from completion!

Somewhere Else...

2010-02-23T13:16:00.000-05:00

I don't have much to say here today but I have plenty to say over at Hip Mountain Mama. Check it out, won't you!

Spending Hiatus

2010-02-22T13:06:00.000-05:00

Joslyn over at Simple Lovely has me thinking...every year she engages in a spending hiatus and it has me thinking. I think I want to start my own spending hiatus. I have a few things holding me back from picking a date, mostly that the next few months will be a bit spendier than usual. March and April are birthday months, we have 2 in March and 3 in April. I have been on top of budgeting out the little lady's 2nd birthday party needs and I am setting aside money each week for Jacob's gift. So that spending is planned and already accounted for.

Of course I am free to set the rules as I see it and it seems that I could take part in a hiatus with the exception of what is already planned. So no non-essentials besides already planned for birthday items (and for the little lady I already have invites, and a good portion of her gift bags. I may even be able to swing the rest this month)

Anyways, that is what I am thinking.

So who is interested in joining me? I am thinking March 1.

(and yes, coffee beans count as essentials)

Friday Blog Roundup + Internet Loves

2010-02-19T16:23:00.000-05:00

This week I am loving...

This project for handmade Fabric Dolls and Magnets
homemade oreo cookies(even if some of mine burned)
my Valentines gift...

an insulated Klean Kanteen...it keeps my coffee hot for hours, even when in an ice cold car.

The new pattern from Pixie Purls...Milk. I know a few people who may be needing this in the next few months...(have I also mentioned my love of secret knitting?)

The Makings of a Second Birthday

2010-02-18T07:34:00.001-05:00

My little girl is going to be 2. I cannot believe it...sometimes when I look at her I wonder where the time went. When I look at her now, all those lingering traces of baby are no where to be seen.

Then

and now.

See what I mean? She is all big kid.

Having a birthday in March is tough. Celebrations must take place indoors and it can get difficult to find ideas year after year. Don't get me wrong, we are not close to hitting that wall but I do want K's second birthday to be extra special since she was sick on her first and that meant canceling her birthday party.

We do have something special up our sleeves...follow along over the next 6 weeks while we slowly prepare. That's right, 8 weeks (while her birthday is in early March, her party is in late March so some special out of town friends and family can attend.) It seems like a long time but I have lots of baking/freezing to do and it is never to early to start. (Besides my birthday is 2 days after K's, I want to enjoy our birthdays too!)

WIP Wednesday: Ravelympics Version

2010-02-17T13:21:00.000-05:00

When I started...

and 6 days in...

While I am making progress, I still have a ways to go...

Friday Bonus Post

2010-02-12T14:35:00.000-05:00

The countdown to the Olympics is on and I am so excited. I love the Olympics and it will be on non-stop in my house for the next 17 days.

This year I am taking part in the Knitting Olympics. In summery, you must cast on when the torch is lit and finish by the time it is extinguished. The project also must be a challenge to complete.

I chose the Abalone sweater and I am using yarn dyed by the pattern designer. It is a silk cashmere blend I bought a year ago. It has been sitting waiting for the perfect project and I think this is it.

This sweater is fairly easy and has a simple construction (aka no seaming) but I have a toddler and my knitting time is limited so I am taking those things into consideration as well. As excited as I am to cast on, I am a bit sad to set aside my current shawl project (which is not the Ulmus shawl I talked about on Wednesday, that was a disaster! I found another project that complements my yarn and I am loving it!)

Can I knit myself a sweater in 2.5 weeks? Stay tuned...

Friday Blog Roundup

2010-02-12T07:53:00.005-05:00

Internet Love for the Week:

These bibs via knitbot
This post on colorful balloons in the morning
This thought-provoking post on happiness.

Making Lunch for the Week

2010-02-11T07:55:00.012-05:00

I mentioned the other day that on Sundays, I make my lunch for the week.

My lunch making tends to take on 2 different forms and I will explain both. Before I begin, I should let you know that I tend to eat the same thing for lunch everyday, switching it up every few weeks or so and I tend to not eat meat for lunch (and yes, I am in the process of transitioning to a vegetarian diet.)

My lunch always consists of a grain, veggies and a bean (you can substitute tofu or another protein here.) If I make my lunch in "bowl" form, I prepackage everything into one bowl and make a separate container of sauce. I do burrito bowls (quinoa, corn, peppers and onions, black beans, cilantro) with sour cream. I do asian bowls (quinioa, edamame, veggies of choice) with some sort of peanut/soy/citrus sauce. You really can do any variation you like. I try to stick to a ratio of 1/2-3/4 cup grain, 1/2 cup beans and as many veggies as I can pack in.

If it is a light week and I don't have much going on, I will prep ingredients but not assemble them. I almost always have a large pot of a cooked grain available (brown rice, quinoa, barley, etc) and I can start with that base and add to it. I also wash, clean and cut up veggies to use during the week on Sundays. It makes it a lot easier to put a healthy meal together when all the heavy lifting is done.

So tell me, what is your go to lunch?

WIP Wednesday

2010-02-10T07:53:00.002-05:00

I have been quite a busy knitter and I have quite a few finished objects to share with you. I also have a work in progress.

First up are my Cat Colorwork mittens. I am have one complete minus the thumb. I am pleased how it turned out, especially for my first colorwork but to be honest, I think these may remain unfinished least for the time being.

I also finished K's valentines pants and her birthday sweater. I am going to hold off on talking about her sweater for a bit since I will make that part of the birthday chit chat.

Her Valentines pants were knit out of stash yarn I have had for some time and was setting aside specifically for a Valentine's related project. I think they turned out great and they are soft and comfy for her.

Last night I (finally) cast on my Ulmus Rectangle. I have been wanting to knit this shawl for a long time and I am pleased to get moving on it. I had some trouble deciding on colors. I wanted to knit it in identical colors to the photo but when I looked at the Blue Moon Fiber Arts site, I was overwhelmed with the beautiful color. In the end, I went with Lettuce Knit and Motley Hue. I was a little nervous how well they would match but they look incredible together (and they seem even better matched in their yarn cakes) see...

I am gearing up to begin one more project but you will have to wait for next week for that. It is my Ravelypmics 2010 project...

Oh, and there is this mysterious project...

as always, more details here.

Meal Planning II

2010-02-09T11:12:00.000-05:00

Last week I talked about meal planning as a time saver. Today I am going to discuss how I organize my meal planning and recipes.

I found this technique while reading Simple Mom and it is brilliant.

I use google for all meal planning. I created a calendar only for meals and I put everything for the month, meal wise on it. When I create a meal, I set it to repeat in 2 weeks which fills in the second half of the month.

In the description section of the event, I link the URL of the recipe I need for the meal or the location of (a magazine or cookbook for example) the recipe, if I am using one.

I also set an email reminder for the night before so I get the recipe I need emailed to me. Seriously, the system is brilliant.

For organizing my recipes, and all my bookmarks, I use del.ici.ous. The tagging system is incredible and very intuitive. For meals, I tag all recipes with the generic term of cookbook. I then break that down into breakfast, lunch and dinner. I also include one last tag with the main ingredient of the meal. I also have a tag for recipes I have found and want to try. When I make one, I change the tags if it is a keeper and if not, it gets deleted.

When I cut recipes out of magazines, I enter them into delicious once a week or so and it keeps me from feeling overrun with clippings and random pages.

The last meal related organizing I do is making my lunches for the week on Sunday. I had not planned to talk about that but if you are interested, let me know.

In the Past Week...

2010-02-08T07:35:00.000-05:00

At the Apple Spa

2010-02-02T08:14:00.001-05:00

Just a quick heads up that I won't be posting anymore this week. I am having some issues with my computer so it is off to the Apple Spa for the week.

Have a great week!

One Small Change Check In

2010-02-01T11:13:00.000-05:00

Does anyone else feel like January flew by? Seriously, where did this month go? With January over, it is time to select a new goal for the One Small Change project. Before I get to that, I want to do another check in for January.

Since my last post, I have been pretty diligent about not accepting plastic bags. I even remembered to bring the produce bags I have to the store so I could minimize my plastic bag use for produce.

Overall, I think I ended the month using 5 or so plastic bags. I think that is a good start.

For February, I am going to continue with my no plastic bag theme as well as adding a goal to reduce the number of plastic bags we use at home. I kept a tally of how many plastic bags we use currently, so I can set a goal to lower that number.

Next week I will be back with some ways we have lowered our plastic bag usage.

How are your small changes going?

Friday Blog Roundup

2010-01-29T15:07:00.000-05:00

I always seem to mark blog posts that I love and that I intend to share with others, but I never do.

On Fridays, I am going to start sharing posts from the week that I have found and love. I hope you enjoy as much as I do.

This project and this project both by Heather over at Shivaya Naturals.
Pillow Case Dresses for Haiti going on over at Freshly Picked (updated information on the drive can be found here)
This travel seat for babies posted by Petit Elefant
Handmade Valentines Day cards for little ones over at The Mother Huddle.

Knitting for Other: Help for Hospice

2010-01-28T14:13:00.000-05:00

I am partnering with my local Hospice to knit hats for Hospice patients who are children and I am looking for those interested in helping out. You can knit (or crochet) 1 hat or a few, it is up to you.

Please comment below and I can get the info out to you as soon as it is all organized.

Music for Children

2010-01-28T07:33:00.000-05:00

We love music but I have to admit not loving the "typical" children's music. How many times can a sane parent listen to the Wiggles before becoming unsane? (Jacob probably feels that way about how much I listen to the Indigo Girls but that is a separate issue)

We have 3 solid favorites when it comes to music for children in our house. All of them are parent approved and will still be enjoyable after repeated listening.

Snacktime by the Barenaked Ladies

Not Just for Kids Only by David Grisman and Jerry Garcia

Victor Vito by Laurie Berkner

(all images via amazon)

What music is tops in your home?

WIP Wednesday

2010-01-27T15:09:00.001-05:00

I said this was the year I was going to learn to knit colorwork. I look at colorwork patterns and feel very humbled by them. They just look so...involved. Oh and most colorwork, or at least all the patterns I want to knit are knit with fingering weight yarn. A yarn weight I tend to avoid (you would never know that by looking at my stash though.)

After seeing the colorwork mittens knit by Melynda I emailed her to share my love of them and my jealousy. I want some colorwork mittens! She encouraged me to jump in, and so I did.

I found a pattern I loved and gave it a shot. I am loving this. Every row brings new excitement and I compelled to knit just one more row. Even the fingering weight yarn is not so bad.

I think this is a great beginning, what do you think?

ps-I am purposefully not sharing the pattern because I want the effect of no one knowing what the mitts are supposed to look like until I am done.

Meal Planning

2010-01-26T08:32:00.000-05:00

The old way: every Sunday I would sit down and try to plan meals out for the week. I would make an attempt and we were 50/50 in our success in following the plan. I found the chore tedious and annoying and my menus always lacked inspiration.

After reading various blog posts on meal planning, I decided I needed to change my approach. The first thing I did was changing my meal planning from a week at a time to a month at a time. Yes, an entire month of meal planning. It seemed a bit daunting to me at first as well. I decided the best way to make it work for me was to add a meal or 2 every other day or so to my menu and before I knew it, I had the month complete. I also repeat meals every 2 weeks so really, I am just planning 2 weeks at a time. I do not repeat every meal, and some meals I plan to cook in large batches and freeze half for another time. I also plan no weekend meals as I am cooking enough so the weekends can be for leftovers or meal out if we want. So far, this has not been a problem.

So how do I do this? First, I use Google Calendar. I created a calendar only for menu planning and under the event details for location, I put where the recipe (if I am using one) is located. This could be a URL or a magazine reference. I have all my recipe bookmarks organized online (but more on that next week) so it is pretty painless to find what I want.

Curious to see what our menu looks like? Take a peek at our menu here.

Next week I will talk about organizing recipes for easy access.

Technology Day

2010-01-25T15:19:00.001-05:00

On Saturday we had Technology Day. What is Technology Day you ask? Recently, Jacob and I entered the 21st century and got ourselves a flat screen HD tv to replace the old, very bulky tv we had from our college days. Since we had bought the new tv, it sat in the kitchen in its' box because we needed to have the cable moved and get a new HD tivo.

We had also made the decision to upgrade our phones that were 2 years old and since the contract we had ended it seemed like a good time to upgrade to blackberries.

We spent yesterday morning out getting the various devices to upgrade our technology.

I bet you are wondering how we fared, aren't you.

While obtaining the actual blackberries was pretty painless, the real fun began when we came home. I am 24 hours in and I still have almost no clue how to use it. It took me about 4 hours to just get my contacts to sync properly. Let's not even get started on my email, and this whole blackberry messenger thing is pretty confusing too. Seriously, the device makes me wonder how I was able to make it through college.

As for our new tv and tivo, it works, at about 50%. We are missing channels, not getting the HD, and are not sure why. The installer was barely able to install the cable card we needed for our tivo.

All in all technology was day was tiring and frustrating, and it does not look like a quick fix is in store in the near future.

WIP Wednesday

2010-01-20T11:20:00.000-05:00

I finally finished my mini Mara shawl. I am in love with it. I knit it smaller than the pattern suggested and I think the sizing is perfect.

As usual, details on my ravelry page.

Routines

2010-01-19T07:04:00.000-05:00

Sunday: change/wash the sheets/make lunches for the week
Monday: grocery shopping
Tuesday: clean the bathroom/wash towels
Wednesday: clean the kitchen
Thursday: vacumn
Friday: catch up day

(yes, this is generally what my week looks like)

I like routines, I find our days and weeks run smoother with a general routine in place. Things are never set in stone, and like most, some weeks are busier than others and things may get pushed aside. In the interest of full disclosure, my house is not immaculate. My general cleaning chores on any given day do not take very long, I'd say they average 30-40 minutes and this seems to work well for us.

I find that focusing on one main chore a day keeps the house in relatively good shape and does not make me feel burnt out or like I need to get it all done in one day. I do laundry when there is a full load and I will admit to doing at least 1 load of laundry pretty much every day. Since we cloth diaper, this creates more laundry for us.

In my day to day activities, I make it a point to sweep the kitchen after each meal as well as wipe down the counters. I also wipe down the bathroom sink each night. I try to wash our dishes after each meal and I pick up toys, etc. before naptime (even when I know they will all come right back out later.)

I never set out to write out a routine, it just seemed to evolve. I kept note of what I liked to do when, and how our days naturally took shape. We tend to sleep a little later in the mornings (up somewhere between 7:30-8:00) and I am more productive in the mornings.

Since becoming a mother, I have loosened my standards quite a bit from how they used to be. I no longer stress over things being perfect, instead I have learned to live with things being good enough. After all, I would rather be enjoying my days with K than stressing if everything is dusted.

Next week...meal planning.

One Small Change Check In

2010-01-18T10:46:00.000-05:00

We are a little more than halfway through January and I am wondering how everyone is doing with their One Small Change for January? If you remember, I am eschewing plastic bags for the month.

So how am I doing? Well, I am doing so so. I have come home with a total of 3 plastic bags so far and in some ways, it is frustrating. 2 out of the 3 times I had my own bag with me. The first bag "incident" was at the mall with Kennedy, I had my bag out on the counter but in trying to corral a crazy toddler, I forgot to tell the girl working and left with a bag. I stood there debating whether or not I should take the purchase out of the plastic bag and put it in my own bag and I am sad to admit I just took the entire purchase, plastic bag and all and put it into my bag and left.

The second incident was similar. I was at the grocery store where, I am always good about bringing bags, and the check out girl put 1 item into each bag and of course, I ran out of bags. Had I been paying attention better this would have been avoided but Kennedy was in the middle of an epic meltdown over the contents of my wallet and I just wanted to get out of there.

I have 2 weeks left in the month, I think I can make without any more plastic bags.

How is everyone else doing?

Help For Haiti

2010-01-14T06:24:00.001-05:00

The Knit Signal has been thrown

(reposted from the Yarn Harlot)

As I'm sure most of you know by now, yesterday, while we knit, ate, drank and slept - a massive earthquake struck Haiti, largely effecting the city of Port au Prince. Haiti itself is a very poor country with other problems - and that means two things. (Well. It means a lot of things actually, but lets only dwell on two of them at the moment.) First, it means that they entirely lack the ability to respond to this emergency without a lot of help, and secondly, it means that when the quake struck, Doctors Without Borders/ Médecins Sans Frontières was already there.

While you and I knit and we (or at least me) considered problems that now seem rather trivial, there are suddenly dead people, hurt people, trapped people, lost people and hundreds of thousands of homeless - all struggling to figure out what comes next. I spoke briefly on the phone this morning with the MSF office here in Toronto, and they confirmed several things.

Things are bad.

The MSF Hospital has sustained damage that means it isn't functioning as a hospital right now. Staff have moved to the courtyard and set up tents and what materials they could retrieve from the building and are doing their best to help people as they can. Doctors who were providing maternity care are now running a trauma centre.

They, and their sister offices in other countries spent all night figuring out who could go and how to get them there, and staff is packing as we read this to get there as fast as they can. They'll be taking inflatable surgery suites with them so they can use that instead of their damaged buildings.

They believe that some of their staff are among the casualties.

They recognize the power of Knitters Without Borders and the force that we can marshal in a pinch, and they are grateful that you've been able to help them in the past, and they would very much like your help now, and right away.

There are directed donation sites set up for Haiti on all of their websites, but I'd like to take a moment to ask you to please make your donation "undirected". Money given to a specific fund can only be used for that area and making sure your donation is undirected helps them a lot. It lets them keep serving other crises that continue to happen while the world watches Haiti, and more importantly, it allows them to be first responders.

On their websites (Canada here, USA here, Other countries can find their site here) when you give there is a drop-down menu that you'll see called "I would like my gift to be directed to..." and you'll see a lot of choices. Please consider selecting "Greatest Needs" or "Emergency Relief" so that they can have the flexibility that they need to do their best work.

I'm going right now to give my share, and I know from my inbox that many of you have already done the same. Really, it's pretty hard to sit here with a Bohus, a pot of coffee, a laptop and this much sock yarn and do otherwise. I hope you feel the same way. They need you knitters, I hope you can help, even if it's only a few dollars of your yarn money.

I'm going to go and keep the Knitters without borders tally running, since it's a tangible way to see how donations, even little ones, add up like stitches on a sweater, and people are already offering karmic balancing gifts for any draw I might do... though I know that really, nobody cares about that right now. If you're like me, you're too busy being grateful that you're not a mother in Port au Prince right now.

Boldly go, Knitters.

While this is just one of the many ways to help out Haiti, I encourage everyone to give what they can, even small change can make a big impact.

WIP Wednesday

2010-01-13T11:19:00.001-05:00

Here are the rest of the gifts I knit for Hanukkah....

The super fun French Press Knits Felted Slippers for my mother in law

Fetching Mitts and Hat for my sister in law

As usual, details on my ravelry page.

Organizing my Life

2010-01-12T07:59:00.000-05:00

image via Russel + Hazel

A few weeks ago, I came across the Simple Mom blog and I started to read. And read. After a lot of reading, I got very interested in the idea of a home management notebook. I am great at making lists, I have them all over the place; my personal calendar, on my computer, on random scraps of paper...but I never thought about compiling everything into one place.

A few people have been asking me about the systems I use for organizing so I am going to write it all up. When I thought about the best way to do this, I decided I will do these posts as a weekly series so I can dedicate each post to a specific topic and not overwhelm everyone with long, wordy posts.

My first post will come next week, with the series falling on Tuesdays.

I plan to cover:

Home management notebooks and why you need one
Meal planning and grocery shopping
Weekly chores
General routines

Am I missing anything? Is there any other topic people want to hear me babble about?

I want to knit...

2010-01-07T08:43:00.000-05:00

Ulmus Rectangle

Deep in the Forest Mitts

(but I will probably knit these first...)

Endpaper Mitt

WIP Wednesday

2010-01-06T08:12:00.000-05:00

Since they have all been wrapped, gifted, opened and enjoyed I thought I would share 2 of the holiday gifts I knit this year. Next week, I will share the rest. I had a hand knit gift for everyone in our family and it was worth the effort.

Hat and matching scarf in the Danica pattern for my father in law

A beret with a flower/star pattern for one of the grandmas

I also recently finished the Simple Pleasures hat I was working on. I did not enjoy knitting it at all but I have to admit, the hat is sheer perfection. Soft and warm and so soft (thanks 100% cashmere!) and it looks incredible on. It has just the perfect amount of slouch.

This is the progress I have made on my secret project. You can tell it is growing but I cannot give anymore information until it has been gifted.

One Small Change

2010-01-04T07:18:00.000-05:00

Over at the Hip Mountain Mama blog there are doing a series on One Small Change from now until Earth Day.

In a nutshell, for each month from now until Earth Day (4.22.10) you commit to making one small change with a positive green impact. You could change to CFL lightbulbs, buy recycled napkins (or better yet, invest in cloth napkins) recycle more, etc.

For January, I am committing to not using any plastic bags. I have a wonderful set of cloth grocery bags and I am diligent about using them. My real issue is those bags when I run errands. Some time ago, I received a few Chico bags (you know, the little ones that stuff inside themselves) and put one in my purse, one in the glove box and one in the diaper bag and I did a semi-consistent job at using them. Now, when I think about it, I have no idea where the bags are. I need to do some digging around the house. I need to to run some errands today so my challenge begins then.

Does anyone want to join me? What is your small change for the month?

Sarah 2010

2010-01-01T07:53:00.000-05:00

I am not normally a New Year's resolution type of person. I generally feel that if you really want to change something about yourself, then you should seize the moment and do it, when the inspiration strikes.

I have been thinking a lot about this year and how I can improve upon myself for next year and 2 words come to mind, preparation and efficiency. In general, I would like to be more efficient and use my time more wisely. Less facebook, more calling people and actually talking. I would like to work on streamlining routines to save time and get the things I do not enjoy doing, done faster, and when making a decision about doing something, or not doing something, I would really like to take a moment and consider if it is a good choice for me and my family.

I have taken steps this year to be more prepared. I began assembling a wrapping area for gifts in the house. I bought supplies (gift boxes, tissue paper, generic craft paper that I use for wrapping) in bulk and keep them together in one area. I never have to run out at the last minute for paper or tape and I have boxes for all manner of gifts.

Another area where I can benefit from some extra preparation is lunch time. I usually eat a decent breakfast and dinner but my lunches are pretty sorry. Taking a cue from a friend, I'd like to make lunches ahead of time and have them ready to go. I love simple "bowl" dishes, a grain, some beans, veggies and some sort of dressing so I plan to take some time on Sundays and make some for myself for the week. I may even take it a step further and expand my current dinner planning to include lunch as well.

I will admit to have a short list of other goals I would like to check off my personal to-do list in 2010:

Learn to take better pictures
Run a 5k
Knit a colorwork pattern (and maybe a pair of socks)
And maybe, just maybe, make that final transition to vegetarianism, something I have had in my head for a very long time now.

Marshmallow Tutorial

2009-12-31T06:34:00.000-05:00

How to Make Marshmallows

Find a willing helper, still in pajamas is not a problem. Have some chocolate for breakfast and grab an apron!

Prep your dish for the marshmallow mixture

Soften the gelatin with water

Heat sugar, water and corn syrup until boiling

Slowly pour the hot mixture into the gelatin

Turn your mixer on the lowest setting. Gradually (every minute or so) increase the speed by 1 setting until you reach the fastest speed. The mixture will thicken as it cools.

Keep beating until the mixture gets very stiff. It will be a while color like in the photo.

It will be stiff and sticky to the touch and should stick to the beaters. This can take up to 25 minutes but I have found it reaches proper thickness in 10 minutes (this will depend on how powerful your mixer is)

Pour into the prepared pan. Allow to set 10-12 hours but I find it sets best when left for 24 hours.

[complete recipe after the jump]

4 envelopes unflavored gelatin
1-1/2 cups water
3 cups sugar
1-1/4 cups light corn syrup
1/4 teaspon salt
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1-1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar, plus addn. for rolling

Oil a 3 quart Pyrex baking dish with vegetable oil. Line the dish with lightweight aluminum foil, and lightly coat the foil with more oil. (I only lightly spray the foil instead of the dish and foil.)
In the bowl of an electric mixer (I think it should really be a KitchenAid or you’ll burn the motor) soften the gelatin with 3/4 cup water.
Place the sugar, corn syrup, 3/4 cup water, and the salt in a heavy saucepan. Bring to a boil and cook over high heat until the syrup reaches 234 to 240F., or the soft-ball stage, on a candy thermometer.
With the whisk attachment of the mixer at slow speed add the vanilla (maybe peppermint would be fun to try too?) gradually increase to full speed, beat the hot syrup slowling into the gelatin until mixture is very stiff, about 15 minutes. Pour the mixture into the foil-lined dish and smooth the top with an oiled spatula. Allow the mixture to rest, uncovered, at room temperature 10-12 hours.
Using a fine sieve, sprinkle the confectioner’s sugar onto a cutting board. Turn the stiffened marshmallow mixture out onto the sugar, and using a lightly oiled cookie cutter, cut into shapes. Be sure to dip the cut edges of the marshmallows into confectioners’ sugar to prevent sticking.
They must be kept in a sealed container, and are best eaten within two days of their making.

*recipe from the Fiber in the Forest forum on ravelry via the KIPing It Real podcast.

WIP Wednesday

2009-12-30T08:45:00.000-05:00

I have a few FO to share and 1 new project. These are gifts for our cousin who has 2 boys and is expecting a third.

These are matching hats for all the kids. The yellow is for the new one (due to arrive mid-late February and the trim is yellow since the gender is going to be a surprise.

Along the lines of unknown genders, we have the following:

This is Frenchpress Knits Bring Me Home Hat. It is knit in organic cotton and includes two braids one in blue and one in pink. This hat is actual newborn size and my hope is that the new one will wear it at the hospital and there will be no need for those little stretchy things they stick on the heads of babies.

I was having some fun so I decided to make some vellum envelopes to put the braids in. I thought it added a nice touch.

This is for my next (secret project.) It is madelinetosh worsted in the colorway Ivy and so soft.

Glimpse

2009-12-29T09:00:00.000-05:00

[Knitting] Year in Review

2009-12-28T07:51:00.000-05:00

2009 was really my year of knitting. While I learned to knit years ago, it was really just over a year ago that I picked it up and got serious.

This was the first pair of longies and the first serious project I knit a year go (these were completed at the end of November 08)

I thought they were great, until I realized I only did short rows on half of the back...opps.

Since then, my knitting has grown by leaps in bounds. In the past year, my finished projects include:

5 adult sweaters
4 baby sweaters
2 pairs of shorties
4 pairs of longies
3 soakers
2 cowls
2 scarves
6 pairs of mitts/mittens
15 hats
1 pair felted slippers

I also have mastered some new techniques:

Short rows
Kitchner Stitch
Cable cast on
Provisional cast on
Duplicate Stitches
Tubular cast on
Tubular bind off
Cables
Seaming

What will 2010 bring to my knitting life? There are a few projects I feel are must knits for the upcoming year for me namely, the Featherweight Cardigan and the Tea Leaves Cardigan. I'd also like to finish a small shawl and I am on my way to achieving that with my Mara shawl.

I'd also like to learn colorwork. I have a few mitt patterns in my rav queue that are perfect beginning patterns.

I think my overall goal for 2010 is to just knit better. I realize how broad that sounds but I'd like to work on making my knitting more consistent, not rush through things when they are hard or I feel bored, and maybe read through the pattern before I begin to prevent random, preventable mistakes halfway through the project.

Oh, and I want to knit a pair of socks.

Weekend Breakfast

2009-12-26T10:10:00.000-05:00

2009-12-25T10:37:00.001-05:00

WIP Wednesday

2009-12-23T09:34:00.000-05:00

I have a few projects to share this week. I also (still) have a bunch of FO's not yet gifted so not yet ready for sharing.

I cannot remember if I mentioned it but I am working on the Mara shawl. It is going fairly slow since I put it down and work on it here and there but I like using worsted weight yarn for it, it goes so much faster.

I also just cast on something I have been wanting to knit for some time now, the Simple Pleasures Hat. I am knitting it in the colors shown on Purl Bee. When I get the yarn, I was surprised it is a bit purple but I love it. The Jade Sapphire yarn is also heavenly to knit with.

Lastly, I just received some very special yarn in the mail.

Aren't these colors amazing? This yarn is being knit for a gift for someone special so I, sadly, cannot say much else.

I also finished a project this week (actually I finished 3, but 2 are etsy orders) that is also a special gift.

This is a thank you gift for someone special. I will give more details when they receive it (it is shipping today) so as not to spoil the surprise.

Random Acts of Kindness

2009-12-22T09:39:00.000-05:00

On Sunday, Holly of Savory & Sweet and I were talking and somehow matzah ball soup came up. Since Sunday I had been craving some soup so yesterday after my eye doctor appointment I decided to take myself out to lunch to this little sandwich place with great soup. Well, I could not find it. Despite having been there multiple times and driving up and down the street 3 times. In the end, I went to a new place, a kind of cafe/coffeeshop.

While waiting for my lunch, I was chatting with an older man who was talking about his children and asking about my knitting and other random things. Joe seemed to be a regular at the coffee shop and I had enjoyed talking with him so I decided to pay for his coffee for the next day.

I will be honest, I hear about "random acts of kindness" but have never done something like this. Sure, at the grocery store I donate change to the foodbank and things like that but I have never engaged in a deliberate action like that before. It made my day. Honestly, I felt happy and warm for the rest of the day. Maybe this needs to become a new habit.

Have you ever done a random act of kindness?

Remants

2009-12-21T10:50:00.000-05:00

This weekend I went through and did a complete overhaul of my yarn stash. I pulled out all the leftovers and figured out yardages. I have some gorgeous yarn in amazing colorways perfect for baby hats and mitten sets. I also have some yarn great for adult hats, mittens and fingerless gloves. I am getting ready to knit things up and list them in the shop.

If you are interested in some custom knits, I am offering a grand opening special. Using remnant yarn, I will knit your hat, mittens or fingerless gloves at a special grand opening rate. The catch is that you only get to select girl/boy/gender neutral as a color preference not the specific colorway. Trust me, it is worth it, all my yarn is gorgeous.

Want to see some colorway example? Here are some recent FO's with examples.

If you are interested in a custom knit, send me an email or convo me through the shop.

Yummy Goodness

2009-12-18T14:36:00.000-05:00

I meant to do my marshmallow post today but time got away from me. Instead, here are some recent stash enhancements.

Dream in Color Smooshy in Petal Falling

Jade Sapphire Mongolian Cashmere in Tea Leaves

Rowan Kidsilk Haze

Malabrigo Twist in Peluna

Yak Yarn in Natural