tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84265711316708706562024-03-13T15:20:03.942-05:00Adult Life: Take Two--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.comBlogger122125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426571131670870656.post-30512127206789629982010-03-17T20:45:00.014-05:002010-03-17T22:59:49.103-05:00Repeat after me: I am a death metal queen<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 337px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 239px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://crashrecords.co.uk/online/shopimages/sections/thumbnails/maiden.jpg" />I'm going to keep repeating that over and over until I believe it because...today Jason bought two tickets for the June <em>Iron Maiden</em><strong> </strong>show in Denver. Yeah, you heard me. Bruce Dickenson. This girl. <strong>Iron. Maiden.</strong> I need more black to wear. And maybe some AquaNet. It will be a true adventure.<br /><br /><div>In other news the past few weeks have been a whirlwind.<br /></div><div>Last week alone I made some fab chicken and dumplings in my awesome Le Creuset Christmas present from Jason.</div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449790759900180050" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimL1OcYovoCWXCvlr-htLc_L_xgKXb17ha9EpUjTYNeUz5s-V8eGDsFjl3t5Hj2HD9FiSOWFnfusX8JBA2Jee-FUCS6yYgcF-Tq3SQVwVWMpcoD3wr4jtKXeRx2iA45Krx1ecnP2wwftjK/s320/c&d.jpg" /><br /><br /><div>I drove to Arkansas and back in a day for work. Gotta love the free-flowing sweet tea, nice people, and frequency of running across a Chick-fil-a at virtually every turn.</div><div></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449791736460421554" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhutGIXq1WSjmIKkmeqfI-YpUXsqayHuSiYp2R16t3MsD0ChbhcWuFZ_5WR7fV4lCGQTOyEH8cm-wXzczzazJZxGU6_mj7ou6-IpGKjKOLwm2j8jC-wd43ZN-UbI3oAfdyCxwcSC_qBglh1/s320/ark.jpg" /><br />I flew to Colorado and back in two days for work where I slept in this bed after working what felt like the longest day ever (Down. Mattress. Pad. OMG comfy!),<br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449792915712250114" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGVmXkE-itL2pK092wUlg2Rd7OADrDofUPq5falUeRxdcsDVXSkNtNSGfW5cdiyfMntujhjBc07TflucZP8-ii7WC9S3wvWeM083GrhH1N2dp7Q1yN7WfD9iSqCcOQ7Muk4MbEWaDmu_VO/s320/colo2.jpg" /><br />...and woke up to this the next morning (hello, goorgeous!)<br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449793001666525986" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbBFOoWMrIxEnKGhBNQQzoRs7Dq9Fh-uLHEuVFUXEd6wgvmBP-vUZxZD0LCyG2xiU1HL0z8IDkHOPeyqRfmdE9h2ywcie2794MAXIzPIbyLbTZRAK-NQcgZtQVdrxz8P6A0HzMzJ7mDry8/s320/colo1.jpg" /><br />On the way back to the airport I sped through these,<br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449793092885721778" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzt_kb2bd8i9ojeqwqG55IgcFihLlk-rcl7GiuRHVDdVXcJoSUyUYdJ83TodvYbNlNNJkiCPTu45EkV_MWBtV6_IVLUjO6fVcVLMCQ3runyAsLNuBVkqHDjNbORchE93ZCtTFncLj3u8EK/s320/colo3.jpg" />...stopped in a cute area for a quick bite at the amazing <a href="http://www.labaguette-co.com/">La Baguette Bakery</a>,<br /><br /><div></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449793365204771010" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5cDIPPIv2dZMd0-FCzA54tinSrTXsp4ekAnsAIj8Cmq-82BpYbsTDD_rMdzh9Qm-0GzxCABE8mwBt0EvlSb7oRIb8LVnBLUhLnyvXnfJXiP13NvtIFsgOP_aVN2s9-7ughDL5HPWKq2Ts/s320/colo5.jpg" /><br />...saw a Cheeto likeness of Rachel Ray through a shop window, <div><br /></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449793198134953474" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZy8zhGtNquB6Jtcz5XnegHaabaEVcNvu_RGY_khQjIsU4cy0oFG5NjlpoDqMD2vLBg6HII1npQfIE_1L2JLkzBGovY8ZnWC9N8XwXdxe6V4_a5_vT82P2hlRK4xAXW887mdBy9_0HKM9V/s320/colo4.jpg" /><br />...ran into the <a href="http://greenvalleyweavers.com/">yarn shop </a>next door and snagged some awesome hand-dyed, springish yellow sock yarn and new size 1 needles since I broke my last pair,<br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449793468659504626" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP386f7X5uV4Fc045lnBGQAnsPvXFVZc22ERjbHKe6w6lS76uJV6GpiANaxqselZXFSKNH148UI-e_FSFwQaM_cJViDzRDCPN0hyphenhyphenoFe_u9XuBooMevaf4ZzXk_jlJCSclohORR0XfghIpt/s320/colo6.jpg" /><br />...and sped the rest of the way to the airport to catch my flight back home.<br /><div></div><br /><div>I also attended the amazing first annual (I'm hoping?) <a href="http://merciblahblah.blogspot.com/2010/03/ladieth-night.html">Laideth Night Clothing Swap-a-rama-lama-ding-dong</a> courtesy of the ever fabulous <a href="http://merciblahblah.blogspot.com/">Shannan and Amy</a>, where I met <a href="http://www.theconcretecatwalk.com/">lots</a> <a href="http://yourstylescout.blogspot.com/">of</a> <a href="http://myhairisbetterthanyours.blogspot.com/">wonderful</a> <a href="http://anon-desperatehousewife.blogspot.com/">laideth</a>, ate delicious food, and bagged some stellar loot in the form of new clothes, jewelery, and a purse.<br /><br />I also cast on for a new pair of socks. It has become abundantly clear that though I am sure I grabbed the same kind of yarn, and I thought I grabbed the same dye lot, I surely did not, and will now be the proud owner of a pair of slightly different colored pink socks. Meh, what can you do?!<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449801149478447170" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI-rXECNsSIHXIo4hQwXWPJ65Fzxs4ZqUE99RSac9VuEUnO0geWai0rth9osrlqR0SGulKom6Qerl8Zds1o4P5Jwkbu1zJLFZ_Fj8u5dmJrzR_dn9nxcDxp4TZg83K8CZX6jNFRHpP-cfX/s320/socks.jpg" /><br /><div></div></div>--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426571131670870656.post-83962657925172269502010-02-22T12:00:00.005-06:002010-03-03T15:26:48.242-06:00February FlopI remember reading back through my archives a couple of weeks ago and thinking of my previous late February posts, "Wow, what was up with me last year?" I mean, yeah winter is long and kind of boring, but I sounded downright pitiful.<br /><div></div><div></div><div><br />Welcome to the end of February. Once again I find myself tired, cranky, wanting to get some exercise, wanting to start some projects, wanting to deep clean my house, but having exactly a zero motivation to do so. </div><br /><div></div><div>Wanna know what I do have motivation to do? Sit on my couch under a blanket, knit, and watch the Olympics. Watching their superhuman feats and streamlined muscles makes me feel slightly fitter by association. Until, that is, I scuff across the wood floors to grab another sliver of brownie from the kitchen, and immediately back to my preheated spot. My kryptonite? Add a purring cat climbing into my lap and I may as well settle in for a few hours. </div><br /><div></div><div>Uggh. I'm so...blah. </div><br /><div></div><div>Apparently everyone else is too because I've seen a rash of How to Be Happy type articles. Even though I'm not in New York I rather enjoyed the recent <a href="http://nymag.com/health/features/63043/">50 Steps to Simple Happiness </a>article in the Times. Some of the ideas, totally doable. Some of the others, not so much for this KC girl, but the thought of being fabulous in New York did perk me up a bit. </div><br /><div></div><div>In other news, my <a href="http://www.flintknits.com/blog/?p=151">February Lady Sweater </a>is coming along. I'm trying to knit it for the Ravelympics, which means I've got from the Olympic opening ceremony to the closing (6 more days, YIKES!) to complete a project. Must. Keep. Knitting.</div><div></div><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441137808168675874" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBkHM1xkCK8dlJoMLe6Q2Y2C7IweefiFTNNnJATZoQIVrG0LfnKHn54qUPQlKlOFm_yr_NUQPQFydbNCIZVN3z08s4LRrafgdvQnN7R2OD3yBgeEiMYQWiK9uX_IlfSwFVL1o4iLMwQgj3/s320/flsweater.jpg" /></div>--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426571131670870656.post-85212528768391386202010-02-02T08:57:00.004-06:002010-02-02T09:04:13.713-06:00Beer for Bikes<a href="http://www.varietykc.org/images/beer4bikes-invite.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 397px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 308px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://www.varietykc.org/images/beer4bikes-invite.jpg" /></a><br /><div>Any KCers looking for something fun to do this Wednesday night, be sure to check out <a href="http://www.varietykc.org/yv_events.html">Beer for Bikes</a> at <a href="http://www.blvdbeer.com/">Boulevard Brewing Co.</a> $15 gets you delicious local brew, food, door prizes, and live music; and helps provide kids with physical disabilities therapeutic bikes. Win-win!</div>--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426571131670870656.post-47649179987041541092010-01-28T20:02:00.008-06:002010-01-28T22:02:19.789-06:00Welcome HomeTonight I was welcomed home not only by outside kitty waiting for her dinner, but also a package. Inside this package was the best welcome home surprise...<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431976868560715154" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmzttRt1n7C9EVkYyrQU3b_def30F81J3rbvOOgW77IEvTk32DIl2JRH_rElOpBJJzxQ93tP9LO0S1pXdRWPDq54lrtOlxt-jLOjZmdBBYEEPzBFCXlXlX2AIXg5v92oSX9HenjJvwdqG_/s400/cascade.jpg" /> ...a wonderful loot of four, balled skeins of <a href="http://www.cascadeyarns.com/cascade-220.asp">Cascade 220 </a>in Plum. MMMM! When the BF and I were in Lawrence at the <a href="http://www.yarnbarn-ks.com/">Yarn Barn </a>two weeks ago I found this, but they didn't have enough, so they offered to mail me some, with no shipping (!), when it arrived at the store. I'd been waiting patiently, and finally, today was the day.<br /><br />I am a complete yarn nerd. I know this because all I want to do is sit with it in my lap this evening, lookat the fabulous color, and every so often give it a squeeze. Yarn fondler...that's me.<br /><br /><br /><div><div><p>I already know I'm going to make the <a href="http://www.flintknits.com/blog/?p=151">February Lady Sweater</a> with it. I've promised myself I won't start it yet though because I've got so many other projects going on. </p><p>I finally finished my <a href="http://sewmamasew.com/blog2/?p=791">Spring Ruffle Top</a>, and I'm pretty happy with the results. </p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431983194472620562" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5TudX3tEKdEMlIigUGvyj0S5sM19nIA3jeKnXJuOctAyLnCU4YbRvju8hmNJHQ3ZXghbIzt0vL6yL420sWY8Hb3yyMBTgHQpB9Q6XOG1n1esre54y11rJqXBiLqZeBqOYU-XFaOg0HhkG/s400/srt.jpg" /> It took me about 5 days total, working on it after I got home from work. I'm not a super experienced seamstress, and this really didn't give me any problems to speak of. I really liked that there was no paper pattern to cut out (although sometimes those are nice too), and that it was totally customizable. Is that even a word? Anyway, the formulas in the tutorial worked perfectly. I did add the shaping on the sides and I brought the bottom in a bit too, just So it wasn't quite sooo flowy.<br /><p>My fabrics are from <a href="http://sarahsfabrics.com/">Sarah's</a> in Lawrence, and even though they aren't from the same designer, I think they went together really well. <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431985031170888098" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL5ERSPxvdpv40EjHUwJRkqvVBXrQV_1w2mwE2iN1LMUWJBkHU34ur6KUDG1Tv4QgtT1bKxtgqrS1Lg4fNQPpSyzATdkfyT6adxZTQpZbQ2qiOB5XSdqLNYeySe9bexygCev2hbNoxpH05/s400/srt2.jpg" /></p></div></div><p>The polka dots fabric is a little more greenish-brown than is showing up in the photo, and the pattern has a great mix of springy green and a greenish gold. Now I'm just waiting for warmer weather so I can wear it. Do you think anyone will ask if I made it? If they do, umm, is that a good thing or no? :)</p><p>I'm also STILL working on my Owls Sweater. I've got the body and two arms mostly done but it feels like it's going so slooow.<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 445px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 337px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/cee1214/19959464/owls_medium.jpg" /></p><p>I also resolved to knit one pair of socks per month. Easier and less painful than diet and excercise in the new year, no? I started my "January Socks" which are actually the ever popular <a href="http://www.grumperina.com/jaywalkergallery.htm">Jaywalker Socks</a>. I'm using a crazy <a href="http://www.patonsyarns.com/product.php?LGC=kroysocks&SPP=999">Paton's Kroy Sock Yarn</a> in Fern Rose Jacquard, and it's been really fun seeing the stripes develop. </p><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5431999916576952706" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0fc0rc9Y_wDhzuHrYlkLDKfAYbG6Lz2_-QU55raRu0X_3pzEz1Z2NokqqZ-xllzkRI6FXotYuZ0atdzAgXS_b0RdDyQHkTo3K3zy0uEikK0A5dKzTD9j6I8gTt_VCtkhD7Wvr26zqzhZF/s400/sock.jpg" /><br /><p></p><p>At this rate they may be March socks :). Actually, I'm flying to St. Louis and back for work tomorrow, and plane time = knitting time, so maybe they will actually be done within this month. </p><p>On that note, anyone else think it's weird that nail clippers are considered possible weapons on planes by the TSA but knitting needles aren't? Not arguing, and I'd obviously never even have to think about that if it weren't for all the crazy regulations...just sayin'. Come fly the fiber-friendly skies :).</p>--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426571131670870656.post-68327083674043696472010-01-22T11:59:00.008-06:002010-01-28T22:06:00.225-06:00A VisitorAnother week bites the dust! As for the "regular updating" --this week FLEW BY. I've been busy planning my Spring travels for work, trying to finish knitting my <a href="http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://pumpernickelandrye.files.wordpress.com/2009/01/owl-sweater1.jpg&imgrefurl=http://pumpernickelandrye.wordpress.com/2009/01/17/owls-sweater-by-kate-davies/&usg=__L3ndR8giyOXmhuUoPPs2Ufbul3Q=&h=333&w=500&sz=102&hl=en&start=1&sig2=Hlx9v30X-i54fy7pTaG-Qg&um=1&tbnid=wEdTt_Jyc6kTKM:&tbnh=87&tbnw=130&prev=/images%3Fq%3Dowls%2Bsweater%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DN%26um%3D1&ei=TOhZS-TxN6XUNMKqgfwO">Owls Sweater</a>, sewing <a href="http://sewmamasew.com/blog2/?p=791">Made by Rae's Spring Ruffle Top</a>, and planning for Jamie's visit in April!! Couldn't be more excited!<br /><br /><div><div><div>For those of you who may not know, she and I were randomly paired as roommates in college, and it was one of the best things to happen in my life :). We were fast friends, and soon known as Roomie and Roomie Roomerson, as we were that unseperable. Since college, she's migrated back to Portland, Oregon; while I'm in Kansas City, MO. Ususally we're lucky to see one another once per year, but we're actually going to fit in two visits within a six month period. YESSSS!<br /><br />A quick pictoral history of R&R, Inc. You're welcome :)<br /><br /><div>Freshman year dorm room roomies, circa 2001: <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 397px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 256px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v65/101/27/188100177/n188100177_30131431_813.jpg" /></div><br /><p>Toga Roomies, circa 2002ish:<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 391px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 248px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v65/101/27/188100177/n188100177_30131434_1685.jpg" /></p>Lake Trip Roomies, circa 2004:<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 365px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 495px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v16/101/27/188100177/n188100177_30016710_9953.jpg" /></div><div><br />Graduating Roomies, circa 2005: <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 372px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 251px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v11/101/27/188100177/n188100177_30021603_8626.jpg" /><br />St. Louis Meetup Roomies, circa 2006: <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 277px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 455px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v49/101/27/188100177/n188100177_30086611_7195.jpg" /><br /><br />The Great Divide Roomies, circa 2007:<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 390px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 310px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-sf2p/v122/101/27/188100177/n188100177_30192800_2829.jpg" /></div><div><br />Matching Undies and a Meetup Roomies, circa 2008:<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 362px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 283px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/photos-ak-snc1/v1580/180/31/188100393/n188100393_30358420_440.jpg" /></div><div></div><div>Birthday Celebration with Jesus Roomies, circa 2009 (the looks on our faces crack me up every time!):<br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 393px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 288px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs244.ash1/17158_511754040522_188100177_30522715_7712826_n.jpg" /><br />Soon to be....2010!! Countdown. Is. On.</div></div></div>--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426571131670870656.post-24764554199648795812010-01-15T11:09:00.002-06:002010-01-15T11:18:35.113-06:00A little Friday love for all my Lovelies!<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/3eBnlAfvbqE&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/3eBnlAfvbqE&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />(via <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3eBnlAfvbqE">theheartrender</a>)<br /><br />Happy almost weekend. Hopefully you get a three-day like me! :)--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426571131670870656.post-23603981358055071752010-01-14T11:56:00.009-06:002010-01-14T12:15:28.226-06:00Blog Love: Attic 24<a href="http://attic24.typepad.com/.a/6a00e551101c548834012876ccccc6970c-500wi"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 387px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 264px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://attic24.typepad.com/.a/6a00e551101c548834012876ccccc6970c-500wi" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://attic24.typepad.com/.a/6a00e551101c5488340120a6b5e2aa970b-500wi"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 383px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 279px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://attic24.typepad.com/.a/6a00e551101c5488340120a6b5e2aa970b-500wi" /></a><br /><div>Maybe it's the cold, dreary weather or the post-holiday time of year, or my obsession with pretty colors and yarn, but I could not have stumbled upon this cheery blog at a more perfect time. </div><div></div><div><br />Lucy, of <a href="http://www.attic24.typepad.com/">Attic 24</a>, is a stay at home mother of three (one brand new!) who lives in the English countryside and loves bright colors and crocheting among other things. Complete confession: prior to finding this blog I was not the biggest fan of afghans and I was definitely a knitting devotee. My mind has officially been changed by Lucy and her beautifully colored creations. That, and I'm always envious of her yummy looking breakfast sweets and fresh flowers!</div><br /><div>Check out more of Lucy and her cozy life <a href="http://www.attic24.typepad.com/">here</a>.</div><div></div><div></div><div><br />(all photos via <a href="http://attic24.typepad.com/.a/6a00e551101c548834012876ccccc6970c-500wi">Attic 24</a>)</div></div>--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426571131670870656.post-10533679440543489592010-01-11T09:51:00.009-06:002010-03-17T22:48:52.988-05:00I'm back......from a long and unexcusable hiatus. Things got crazy busy. My nasty heartburn got worse and I didn't feel like doing anything. My nasty heartburn got somewhat better, and then a lot better with the help of some new medication. Then I learned to live without coffee and could magically eat chocolate again without feeling like crap, and life was good.<br /><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><br /><div><div><div>I trained for and then ran in a 5K (If you read any of my previous posts I was training for a marathon relay, until 3 of my team of 5 bailed THE DAY BEFORE. Love you Jackie for still running with me!).<br /></div><div>The BF and I took the great American Road trip and saw all kinds of cool stuff...<br /></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449805272161006354" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbV8uyXF9zRCXLiQ1DRXRkpEIHvOF4u27LwR2xzS8SnJLmaswEzUJqUybCEgV1i_oDBA1AzESmea33ZXtO4xjdWAiDT7vIEohPCwXQeTaXQgRFu6na8P6NSD2mutgDeNN6Wtqy3h8SRm-j/s320/DSCN0618.JPG" /> <img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449814035003204194" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_cXzBYJspy7Q/S6Gg_ZBN4mI/AAAAAAAAAMA/ZSHmCVTtAsU/s320/DSCN0658.JPG" /><br /><div>... and ate <a href="http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g44899-d554276-r3288626-Wheel_Inn-Sedalia_Missouri.html">hamburgers with peanut butter</a>.</div><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449809628466140418" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_cXzBYJspy7Q/S6Gc-5Y6VQI/AAAAAAAAALo/1XsY6SJUwFE/s320/DSCN0669.JPG" /><br /><br /><div>Then the knitting started...<br /><br /></div><div></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 375px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 301px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/cee1214/16021541/drifted_pearls_medium.jpg" /><br />...and the knitting...</div><div><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 389px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 273px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/cee1214/18893355/jamieberet_medium.jpg" /><br /><div>...and the Halloweening...<br /><br /></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449806232260079714" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_cXzBYJspy7Q/S6GZ5NiScGI/AAAAAAAAALI/tscnYu7fNWc/s320/DSCN0682.JPG" /><br /><br /><div>...and the knitting of the Christmas gifts...<br /></div><br /><br /><div></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 364px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 277px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/cee1214/17211297/gloves_medium.jpg" /><br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 368px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 294px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/cee1214/17210531/hat4_medium.jpg" /><br /><br /><div>...and the buying of the new couch on which to watch tv, and lounge, and knit (excuse the knitting notions on the floor beneath) ...<br /><br /></div><div></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 399px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 297px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://images4.ravelrycache.com/uploads/cee1214/16021341/scarf_medium.jpg" /><br /><br /><div>...and the sewing...<br /><br /></div><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 382px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 530px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_430xN.79011378.jpg" /><br /><br /><div>...and my first time preparing Thanksgiving dinner for the fam...</div><br /><br /><div><br /></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449806862239082450" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCr4kofwO9bQrfwHv94uhkZ8Vo7kvsxDdF-5wZeaCyOicD67bVXOyvcK-v9vH8cOkU1iHD-vVHvJWERk58KwRM5qujGF9HbWeV9LQ1iKE8RzpbBbumLYmJ6vK7cbIp6sVvU7Bh6c-YCl8q/s320/DSCN0695.JPG" /><br />... and the Christmas Treeing (I love this picture of him).<br /><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 422px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs091.snc3/15842_511328074162_188100393_30505597_7921582_n.jpg" /><br />I went to Portland, Oregon to visit Jamie for my birthday... <div></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449811320682007826" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUe5DHl5YLp-uZdOyo-Z1T2kh-oQM76B-85NeI-poqtx0MBm3Pl11lFog-Tox3tgucB0vDQ9ypAegVCSjQ_nsi2iEmlkFspI09Q9w0aFVjY9nzImzbSzb_cHaWzQjjy8WgHgNT-49HEXS-/s320/DSCN0705.JPG" /><br /><div>...where <a href="http://www.steppingstonecafe.com/">we ate blueberry Mancakes with Jesus</a>...</div><br /><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449812131934745922" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgtAZOqV-v8mGtYrn4mLfB6X264gJGeB0MmfQCbtEMYfqAf5Ktx0ASVktYycrAdaV00Q59rfMIxkTRstEvaLJ9GN5_SgbDxK9cWdbs9UvgXa5g6kvSYI_tSebS3TLmC5LFFTfpDdm-KAwD/s320/DSCN0703.JPG" /></div><br /><br /><div>...and <a href="http://blogs.wweek.com/retailtherapist/2009/12/08/pinky-jewelry-on-nw-23rd/">bought matching rings</a>.</div></div><div><br /></div><div></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 387px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 264px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs144.snc3/17158_511754045512_188100177_30522716_1693196_n.jpg" /><br /><br /><br /><div>Then came the Christmasing...<br /><br /></div><br /><br /><div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 379px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 504px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs148.snc3/17574_511577693922_188100393_30515105_7705813_n.jpg" /><br /><br /><br /><div>...and the doggy houseguests..</div><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449814466856923090" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMTm9TTUxB8khu3VjHlNlLYER1qmERO7schmHW4qRQoKTaw3HPWSxFBLIpgbU0uNthoCkszH98hc8-3TSGl3RU8qo9TRLkqq3fdh4hMaVuOxdSYPnADCjk7jhRBJSqM8Qz2XIrfifasbFQ/s320/harry.jpg" /><br /><div><br />...and the snow. Oh the snow. It started on Christmas Eve, where we weren't quite sure we would make it home from Grandma's and might have to eat the stockpile of chocolate mints for survival. It kept up off and on until last week, at which point every school within a 50 mile radius was closed and we ended up with a cumulative foot or so on the ground.<br /><br /></div><br /><br /><div></div><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 343px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 512px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_kvw7maFwlw1qzw5g9o1_500.jpg" />Pair that with a recent week of temperatures at or below zero, and you've got some really nasty roads and a major case of cabin fever.<br /><br /><div>Today however, we are currently experiencing a balmy 28 degrees with predictions of a meltoff and sunny skies later in the week. Life is good, and I am ready to start new projects, reorganize, and hopefully experience the predicted <a href="http://popwatch.ew.com/2010/01/04/bachelor-scandal-producer-contestant/">Bachelor scandal </a>with Jackie (because it's just more fun that way).<br /></div><br /><div>Onward and upward, and much more blogging to come in the near future.</div><br /><div>Welcome 2010!</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426571131670870656.post-45247023311772290992009-08-11T19:02:00.006-05:002009-08-11T19:37:27.648-05:00Nothing Like August<a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3660/3648590151_ce6cca05dd.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 240px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 363px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3660/3648590151_ce6cca05dd.jpg" /></a> What is it about August that just makes it the guts of Summer? Maybe it's the feeling you got as a kid, knowing that school was just a few days away and you had to live it up while you could, asking your mom to stay outside just ten minutes more when she called you in at night. Maybe it's the balmy buzz of cicada filled trees, garden plants beginning to yellow after their fruit has been picked, and the way the sunlight seems to have a golden tint all day long.<br /><div></div><br /><div>Whatever it is, it's here right now, and I love it.</div><br /><div></div><div>I'm sitting outside this evening, catching up on blogs. The little girl across the street is playing in her inflatable pool, spraying water from a garden hose and yelling things like "HAPPY BIRTHDAY!", "USA!" and "JESSE JAMES!". I'm not sure about the last one, but I remember that <em>feeling</em>. Walking outside is like being wrapped in a blanket, there are grass floaties in the water of your plastic pool, and you're just so unexplainably happy you feel like shouting it to the world. You want to hold on to every second of it you can because it won't be back for another nine months, which may as well be an eternity in kids years.</div><div></div><div></div><div><br />I was reminded of that feeling this weekend while working in the yard. As I sprayed months of grime off the side of the house, I smelled one of summer's unmistakable scents: hose water on hot concrete. That combination, to me, is the essence of August. Though it's exactly the same tap water I drink all year long, it somehow changes to something special in that scenario. The smell is metallic and earthy and humid. It's a respite for burning feet on hot pavement, it's a romp through the sprinkler or helping Dad wash the car in the driveway. </div><br /><div></div><div>The days are already getting a bit shorter, and I really need to get the yard mowed tonight, but I think I'll just sit here and enjoy it... for ten more minutes. </div><div> </div><div></div><div><br />(Photo courtesy <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/cedwardmoran/">tsuacctnt</a>)</div>--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426571131670870656.post-72746116582841798802009-07-29T15:27:00.004-05:002009-07-29T16:12:50.731-05:00101 Salads from Mark BittmanRan across this article, <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/22/dining/22mlist.html">101 Simple Salads for the Season</a>, by food writer and activist Mark Bittman in the NY Times.<br /><br />They all sound AMAZING! Bring on the salad :)<img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 363px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 242px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://graphics8.nytimes.com/images/2009/07/21/dining/22mini600.1a.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />(Photo via <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/22/dining/22mlist.html">NY Times</a>)--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426571131670870656.post-77357842931516802852009-07-22T11:06:00.010-05:002010-03-03T15:39:11.363-06:00Maybe She Wanted a Cookie?<a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3655/3421461791_fd847575a5.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 377px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 234px; CURSOR: hand" border="0" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3655/3421461791_fd847575a5.jpg" /></a><br /><div><br /><br /><div>With all of the reflux nonsense going on, I haven't been sleeping well lately. I'm fairly lucky, as it doesn't often keep me up all night as some people experience, but I find myself waking up uncomfortable and shifting around several times per night. Last night I was up at 2am, tossed and turned for a bit, and eventually drifted off again.<br /><br />At 3:30am I woke up again, but this time it was to the drum of running kitty feet. Ugggh. I was soooo comfy, and my usually quiet cat decided, out of the blue, that this night was good for playing. The dog was even startled awake, and jumped off the bed to go investigate. I settled in, and just as I started to doze, the racket began again. I coaxed the dog back into bed, and realized that he was shaking nervously. My goofy pup has been known to shake like this for no good reason, so I got him to lay back down, and tried to sleep...again.<br /><br />Before I knew it, my cat had dragged one of her toys onto the bed and was alternately pouncing on it, and then kicking it with her back feet. (Actually just guessing on this, since it was pitch black, but this is her typical mode of attack). I sat up, rolled her onto her back, and as sternly as I could at 3:45am told her to "CUT IT OUT AND GO TO SLEEP!"<br /><br />I can't lock her out of the room, because this only provokes the "cat paw under the door/door rattling" reaction, which is exponentially more noisy and annoying than "wild cat on the bed."<br /><br />Mere minutes later we've started the whole cycle again, I'm going nuts, and the dog is still shaking. I decided that taking the toy away is the next best option, so I began blindly sweeping my hand back and forth across the duvet so I didn't have to turn the light on. I found the toy, and as I was lifting it off the bed realized that it was soooo soft...and....squishy. (*gulp*)<br /><br />I dropped it faster than you can blink and sat there in the dark thinking, <em><span style="color:#ffffff;">"Oh my gosh, please don't let that be what I think it is."</span> </em>Slowly I rolled in the opposite direction and flipped on the bedside lamp.<br /><br />There, in the middle of my bed, surrounded by myself, the shaking dog, and the proud cat was A DEAD MOUSE!! <strong>No. Flipping. Way.</strong></div><br /><br /><div></div><br /><div>I've never seen a mouse, or even evidence of a mouse in my place. But there was definitely a (only minutes prior) healthy specimen laying on her back, dead as a doornail. No marks on her. I looked at the dog who seemed to say, "This is what I was TRYYYYING TO TEEEELL YOU." The cat sat across from us, calm as can be, looking like she was queen of the world.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br />I got up, cleaned everything up, scrubbed my hands like craaaaaaazzy, and the three of us FINALLY fell asleep for good.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br />(photo courtesy <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/asinglesparkk/3421461791/">Natasha</a> Sara )</div></div>--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426571131670870656.post-57944696316377770692009-07-17T10:23:00.000-05:002009-07-17T10:24:24.319-05:00Post-It Love<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/zWlQeuMrIEw&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en&feature=player_embedded&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/zWlQeuMrIEw&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en&feature=player_embedded&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br />(<a href="http://joannagoddard.blogspot.com/2009/07/post-it-love.html">via</a>)--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426571131670870656.post-1818525340298813232009-07-16T15:50:00.007-05:002009-07-16T16:14:44.817-05:00Skeeered!Maybe I'm being a giant weenie, but I'm a little scared today. I went to the doctor this morning after having my second round of pretty nasty heartburn. The first time around it lasted about three months, and once I started Nexium it was gone in three days! Awesome, awesome stuff. Anyway, eventually I was able to go off, and stay off the meds for about four months. It came back a couple of months ago, and nothing is really getting rid of it this time.<br /><div></div><br /><div>My doctor told me today that...(gulp)...I need to get an <a href="http://www.gicare.com/Endoscopy-Center/Upper-GI-Endoscopy.aspx">upper GI endoscopy</a> next week.</div><div></div><div></div><div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 374px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 233px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3184/2841757821_3b4c2bab17.jpg?v=0" border="0" /></div><br /><p>For those of you that (like me) don't really know what that means, let me tell you. While you are sedated and numbed up they put a tiny camera in a tube DOWN YOUR THROAT and all the way INTO YOUR STOMACH! Yikes!! Reportedly this doesn't hurt and you really don't remember anything afterward. Did I mention that I have to SWALLOW A CAMERA!! </p><p>Ok, ok, now I am being a weenie. Honestly, I think other than the unknown of what this will feel like (supposedly not uncomfortable) I think I am most scared of is the <em>needles part</em>. </p><p>Uuuugh. I get squirmy just thinking about it. </p><p>I suppose that unless I want to try this without sedation (no thanks) I'm going to have to get over it and be brave. </p><p>Anyway, think happy thoughts for me that they find the cause of all this and it's easily fixable. Oh yeah, and that I don't gag all over myself or <strong>have a total freak out</strong>. Eeeeeeeee..........</p><p>Leave me some love. Please?</p><p>(photo courtesy <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/bredgur/">bredgur</a>)</p>--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426571131670870656.post-35189850508827794462009-07-15T21:28:00.004-05:002009-07-16T10:11:04.154-05:00Back on the...sneakers?<a href="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/29/46324600_221e173f37.jpg?v=0"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 371px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 191px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/29/46324600_221e173f37.jpg?v=0" border="0" /></a><br /><div>I've been procrastinating for months. I know...I'm on a marathon relay team...my team is depending on me. Buuuuut...it's been really hot. I've been doing a lot of other stuff. I'm going to start later in the week. There's <strong>always</strong> later in the week. </div><br /><div></div><div>Today is the day, though, to get back on the horse, or the running shoes. My marathon team is complete. There's no what ifs.</div><br /><div></div><div>I even agreed to do a 5K with my Dad three weeks prior for some additional motivation. I emailed him about it today and he sounds really excited. Not going to lie, I'm pretty excited too. Doing something like this with my Dad, that's good for both of us, that we both have to work for, makes me feel really good.</div><br /><div></div><div>That little extra push got me going. I started small, but I started. It's pretty steamy today, and I didn't get an opportunity until late, but I did it. First half-mile down, and many more to go.</div><br /><div></div><div>(photo courtesy <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/nihonbunka/">timtak</a>)</div>--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426571131670870656.post-16109829421114601012009-07-15T13:29:00.006-05:002009-07-15T13:47:12.812-05:00Missed Connections<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyxQTZx0D59TgdHB1kyonIXJhlu84iQmJcNF7UCXl-ioyTiFtaizP2lDfQhqTPHiHkZATcuLzq3S_LqEX2bG-35MeQIaV-lMiUNRpOvmc1zFBiV8dndfCUi7A4ByAQ-vt8XKTLVWWjRSw/s400/3.12.09.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 297px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyxQTZx0D59TgdHB1kyonIXJhlu84iQmJcNF7UCXl-ioyTiFtaizP2lDfQhqTPHiHkZATcuLzq3S_LqEX2bG-35MeQIaV-lMiUNRpOvmc1zFBiV8dndfCUi7A4ByAQ-vt8XKTLVWWjRSw/s400/3.12.09.jpg" border="0" /></a>Who doesn't love reading the <a href="http://kansascity.craigslist.org/mis/">missed connections </a>on Craigslist? There's a <a href="http://missed-connection.tumblr.com/">great missed connections blog</a> over at Tumblr. Funny, funny stuff. <div><br /><div>Still, today I found the doozy of all doozies, for all things MC. Illustrator, Sophie Blackall, has the most wonderful ILLUSTRATED blog, appropriately titled <a href="http://missedconnectionsny.blogspot.com/">Missed Connections</a>. Her hand drawn ink and watercolor pictures are fantastic and a little dream-like. Check it out. <strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">Blog love of the week!</span></strong></div><br /><div></div><div>(photo courtesy <a href="http://missedconnectionsny.blogspot.com/">Sophie Blackall</a>)</div></div>--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426571131670870656.post-91055210244153683222009-07-12T20:56:00.006-05:002009-07-13T09:27:50.483-05:00BBAC Week #8 - Cinnamon RollsNot gonna lie, I was a little lazy about my baking this week. <a href="http://pinchmysalt.com/the-bba-challenge/">The Bread Baker's Apprentice Challenge</a> recipe this week made either cinnamon rolls or sticky buns. I chose cinnamon rolls and I'd planned on prepping everything up to the actual baking on Friday night. I totally scrapped these plans when given the opportunity to go see the movie <a href="http://disney.go.com/disneypictures/up/">UP</a> with <a href="http://rhapsodyinj.tumblr.com/">J</a>. Such a great movie! The animation blew me away and we laughed so hard we cried for most of the movie.<br /><br /><div><div><div><div>I got home at about 10:30pm and started my dough. Got everything mixed and let it rise once. By that time I was exhausted so I just covered the bowl in plastic and tossed it in the fridge. So tired, in fact, that I completely forgot to take any photos up to that point. Oops!</div><br /><div>The dough risen a bit more overnight in the fridge, but didn't seem over-risen by Saturday morning. I did the poke test (gently poke the dough with your finger: if the indentation fills back in the yeast is still active, if not it has risen for too long) and the dough was surprisingly in perfect shape.</div><br /><div>I rolled he dough into a large rectangle, covered it in cinnamon and sugar, and rolled the whole thing into a big, doughy log. I actually think the overnight refrigeration helped during this step as the cold dough didn't stick to the rolling pin, my hands, or the board.</div><div><br /></div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 382px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 253px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2609/3715324230_909484050b.jpg?v=0" border="0" /><br />I sliced the roll into twelve buns, and placed them on a parchment lined baking sheet. I let them rise for a bit longer than the recommended time since they were still cold from the refrigeration.<br /><br /><br /><div></div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 394px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 238px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2657/3715324840_64e4f4d219.jpg?v=0" border="0" /><br />I popped the rolls into the preheated 350 degree oven and started prepping the rest of breakfast. I ended up baking them for 40 minutes, rather than the 20-30 minutes in the recipe, as they weren't browning very quickly. It was definitely worth the wait.</div><div><br /><br /></div><div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 279px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 350px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2572/3714514835_bcc37e73dc.jpg?v=0" border="0" /><br />The rolls rose a bit more during baking, and the sugar turned into a glaze in between layers, and created a crispy crust on top. By this time I was starving, so I hopped in the shower while they cooled (recipe calls for 10 minutes of cooling before glazing) so as not to dump the whole bowl of fondant on top and start downing them. I think this was more effective than a low flow shower head at conserving water, because I was in and out in record time!</div><div><br /></div><div></div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 398px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 272px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2428/3714515379_6d32bbb899.jpg?v=0" border="0" /></div><div></div><div>Not surprisingly, these were really good. Per the recipe, I added lemon zest (you could also use lemon extract) so they were a bit citrusy. I'm not completely used to lemon in my cinammon rolls, but it was a nice addition. We ate them with good, crispy bacon and a fruit salad of honeydew, orange, grapefruit, and Ranier cherries ( love that they're on in season and on sale right now!). Didn't get any photos of the plated breakfast because it immediately went into our mouths. Sooooo good!</div><div></div><div></div><div><br />Next up: Cinnamon Raisin Walnut Bread</div></div>--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426571131670870656.post-939733004337035462009-07-10T09:08:00.004-05:002009-07-10T10:03:03.061-05:00UHP: Photo Update!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBmogI-Q2xCR-h-4LPV0_ePcVAe6c_E0zP52Vf8p9PSHN3gKWRrBEsleZZAVuqdTH-iAJdXZjlF5g6dqP55wlD4sZ7couwgzyQK9Dukr-nOr7AgmtjGRINyAkyM6ArTKABRqkIDMYFops2/s1600-h/UHP.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5356833449642243858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 396px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBmogI-Q2xCR-h-4LPV0_ePcVAe6c_E0zP52Vf8p9PSHN3gKWRrBEsleZZAVuqdTH-iAJdXZjlF5g6dqP55wlD4sZ7couwgzyQK9Dukr-nOr7AgmtjGRINyAkyM6ArTKABRqkIDMYFops2/s400/UHP.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />I have tomatoes!! They're not quite ready yet, but as of yesterday there were even some turning yellowish/pinkish, so fresh, ripe tomatoes are just around the corner.<br /><br /><div><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 384px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 276px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3615/3634459660_b8babda0dc.jpg?v=0" border="0" /></p><br /><p>There have been lots of blossoms on the butternut squash plants in the garden. I'm a little worried though as instead of forming little nubs where the squash will develop once the flowers shrivel, I can only see that the blossom and the branch for about two inches down the stalk are brown and dry. Not sure what happened??</p><p>The herbs have grown so much that they're looking bushy and really needing to be pruned back. I will definitely miss them this winter. So will the bumble bees who LOVE the lavender and basil blossoms.<img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 351px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3330/3634459228_1a2489b712.jpg?v=0" border="0" /></p></div><div><br />In other interesting news I've seen a number of very smart re-purposing ideas in the blog world this week. Loving <a href="http://www.instructables.com/id/VERTICAL-VEGETABLES-quotGrow-upquot-in-a-smal/">this idea </a>from pippa5 on <a href="http://www.instructables.com/">Instructables</a> to create a vertical garden out of a hanging shoe bag. Perfect for growing herbs, greens, or small fruit or vegetable plants and keeping the beasties out. Also great for apartment or patio gardners, or anyone with limited space.</div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 357px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 451px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.instructables.com/files/deriv/FVZ/4VCT/FW5GYH2M/FVZ4VCTFW5GYH2M.MEDIUM.jpg" border="0" /><br />Another <a href="http://www.instructables.com/id/Recycled-55-Gallon-Barrel-Chair/">great idea</a> from Instructables user Monkeybrad, lawn furniture made from 55 gallon drums. The instructions are pretty simple, and these drums are pretty easy and inexpensive to get your hands on. With the recent influx of spray paint for plastics, you could likely also paint these if you're not a fan of the standard bright blue.<br /><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 316px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 239px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://www.instructables.com/files/deriv/F44/8FU2/FTM73293/F448FU2FTM73293.MEDIUM.jpg" border="0" /></p><br /><br /><p>Finally, while this idea may be out of the realm of DIY for most of us, I still thought it was a great idea worth mentioning. Featured on the <a href="http://www.readymade.com/blogs/readymade/2009/07/07/dumpster-diving/">ReadyMade blog</a>, Jocko Weyland and the folks at <a href="http://macro-sea.com/main.asp">Macro Sea</a> are making urban pools out of dumpsters! They've been hosting Friday Pool Parties in the Brooklyn neighborhood where this one is located. Reusing and bringing the community together --doesn't get much better than that!</p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 384px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 490px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://readymadeblogs.mydevstaging.com/blogs/readymade/files/2009/07/m-s-pools-kids-with-euipment-7-03-09.jpg" border="0" /><br /><p></p>--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426571131670870656.post-82575475498842671632009-07-08T10:36:00.012-05:002009-07-08T11:05:44.862-05:00Cherries and Blog Love<img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 265px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 191px" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3097/2543171151_91c12e36c6.jpg?v=0" border="0" />Two unrelated topics, but both worthy of note.<br /><div></div><br /><div>1.) I am eating the crap out of cherries lately! I bought a 2# bag on Saturday and polished it off today. So good I may get another. </div><div></div><div><br />Let me know if I start turning pink.</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><br />2.) I have found a new blog crush. I ran across <a href="http://mymilktoof.blogspot.com/">My Milk Toof </a>on <a href="http://www.stumbleupon.com/">StumbleUpon</a> (which you should totally try if you haven't). This blog is probably one of the most original ideas I've seen in quite a while. </div><div></div><div>Creator, Inhae Renee, sets it up by saying: <blockquote>"When I was young, I placed my baby teeth under my pillow and when i woke up I'd find a shiny new quarter. But whatever happened to those little teeth? Where did they go? Would I ever see them again? <br /><br />Many years later, a little tooth was standing at my door. It looked familiar. Its name was ickle. Welcome home, my milk toof!"</blockquote></div><div>Check out the antics of the teeth, Ickle and Lardee, if you get a chance. You won't be disappointed.</div><div></div><div>(photo courtesy <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/bensonkua/">bensonkua</a>)</div>--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426571131670870656.post-71846368411847643812009-07-07T08:37:00.010-05:002009-07-07T09:07:01.307-05:00...Stilt-Walking Skills...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5aKMkIs_q7CGqZ7sV6xuZ9rdeE3_aWmbJp-L8-xe0-lrBBcWe2eGEEpg0rtvxBqo3ImGdXW_0UbQq85RCpsWFTf7qxFOLpKMC9WGnSICHUCWM3QCe4qEIbRIPZ_5AozN81ykWuCRXfK6b/s1600-h/DSCN0484[1]"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355714904497565698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5aKMkIs_q7CGqZ7sV6xuZ9rdeE3_aWmbJp-L8-xe0-lrBBcWe2eGEEpg0rtvxBqo3ImGdXW_0UbQq85RCpsWFTf7qxFOLpKMC9WGnSICHUCWM3QCe4qEIbRIPZ_5AozN81ykWuCRXfK6b/s320/DSCN0484%5B1%5D" border="0" /></a>The BF and I had a very fun three-day break this past weekend. Among other things I got the opportunity to show off my stellar stilt-walking skills.<br /><br /><div>What? You say you can't walk on stilts at all?</div><br /><div>That's too bad because I AM AWESOME AT IT.</div><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355716110699713970" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwY9I54GYzlXmisRky3u364AR_35OhwLKA2teu-aArSBZJ7bl1J4kb3jq0U5t8wrDhn8yaTut67X70qV4lIcQPwgahPKWshmGkZL7trFkXIEWv3oIHN8g5x24X4TxwBXe2g2roVZIT7Y9a/s320/DSCN0485.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355716430870022306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB1nGlX81pYsfnXekmKMvF5czes-9THMMGcJguJTN3m6rNCNofIsyVBZt8m7KlYhOzky7b5v_AiPNZp9oL2QkVJWaJr1AxenG7pNNnFWmVpFGz2s1aFX6GuSRWJCwPvV7USYa7GsY6VTSv/s320/DSCN0483%5B1%5D" border="0" /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355716625816270594" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCJB5ZnAEtfH_ERBLN5GaOwt8sXbVZ53mipNaeOxyoB5pNiIRQgl8lxH-rcLuco6A0YsNrXHwZ8uIy4t1TF2suRfdF-zKbxYDtWQSw2kGnpkOpWoK2UCPtLx_Wuu82yxRGcDfElheLZIiA/s320/DSCN0482.jpg" border="0" /><br />The BF, being the stilt newbie that he is, gave a valiant effort. He was up...<br /><br /><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355717398850599794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_cXzBYJspy7Q/SlNUmTPee3I/AAAAAAAAAHw/btoCCXE8Pb4/s320/DSCN0479.jpg" border="0" /><br />...and then he was down.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5355717689023608706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_cXzBYJspy7Q/SlNU3MOHN4I/AAAAAAAAAH4/4ReaDVYMFdE/s320/DSCN0480.jpg" border="0" /><br />Don't worry BF, THEEEZ SKILLZ are years in the making. Stilt-walking like this does not happen overnight. Also, I'm naturally gifted with the ability to balance on tiny wooden platforms...in flip flops, nonetheless...pssssh.<br /><br /><div>(**note: I can only gloat like this because the dear BF has skills superior to mine in virtually every other arena. But not stilts, because I am the winner.**)</div>--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426571131670870656.post-63167702668772806462009-07-05T22:53:00.008-05:002009-07-12T22:06:44.498-05:00BBAC Week #7 - CiabattaOnward and upward to week #7 (my second) of the <a href="http://pinchmysalt.com/the-bba-challenge/">Bread Baker's Apprentice Challenge </a>with Ciabatta. This bread was first made in Italy, and should have a crisp crust with a porous, soft interior.<br /><div><div><br /><div><div><div>The dough was much stickier than the <a href="http://www.adultlifetaketwo.blogspot.com/2009/06/bread-bakers-apprentice-challenge.html">Challah from last week</a>. I made the poolish variety, rather than the biga, but both involve starting the fermentation process a few hours, or even up to three days, before making the actual dough. For the poolish, I mixed the flour, yeast, and water together to make a sticky, thick pancake batter-like texture. I let it ferment for four hours on the counter, and then stuck it in the fridge overnight. </div><br /><div></div><div>This morning I added the poolish to more flour, salt, yeast, and water in the mixer, and mixed for about 7 minutes total using the paddle and then the dough hook. It was a bit dry at first, so I added water by the tablespoon until I got the stickier texture I was looking for. </div><br /><div></div><div>After the first 30 minute rising, I added some fresh rosemary and thyme and did the first stretch/fold, and let it raise for another 45 minutes.</div><br /><div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 392px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 234px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2425/3692211862_b62d75d3a8.jpg?v=0" border="0" /></div></div></div></div></div><br /><p>It was looking pretty puffy by then, so I decided to go ahead and divide it up into loaves. The loaves sat in a makeshift couche (one of my kitchen towels) to keep them seperate during the final raising.</p><br /><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 394px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 238px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2587/3691407045_3ffa149f52.jpg?v=0" border="0" /></p><br /><p>To get the crispy crust I was looking for I had to add steam to the oven. I did this by pouring hot water into a preheated pan on the top rack as I added the dough to the bottom rack. I also misted the walls of the oven every thirty seconds for the first two minutes of baking.</p><br /><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 383px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 249px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2591/3692213916_359028c19e.jpg?v=0" border="0" /></p><br /><p>The recipe made enough dough for two small loaves and two buns. Since I don't have a baking stone or even a huge pan I decided to bake them individually. The recipe called for a bake time of approximately 22 minutes, but I had to bake each for closer to thirty to get the caramel colored crust I was looking for. </p><br /><p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 349px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 452px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2605/3692212978_42cb65c873.jpg?v=1246851568" border="0" /></p><p>The loaves looked great. I didn't take a photo of the inside this time, though, because I was a little disappointed with how mine turned out. Ciabatta is known for it's light crumb filled with tons of big air pockets. Mine was sadly missing those big holes. The only thing I can figure out is that the house was a little cooler today, and the recipe called for a final stretching ( but no folding) of the dough as it was going into the couche. I think that last stretch probably flattened any air holes that might have formed. </p><p>Despite that, the bread tastes great, and looks nice. I'm still going to chalk this one up to success since the buns played an important role in tonight's dinner. </p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 339px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 223px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2429/3691407941_e27c982999.jpg?v=0" border="0" />Mmmm...salmon burgers (grilled by the BF) with avocado aioli and leaf lettuce. Pretty excellent way to end the three day weekend.<br /><p>Next up: Cinnamon Rolls</p>--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426571131670870656.post-4459462636279083092009-06-30T09:04:00.004-05:002009-06-30T09:40:44.751-05:00Monday Night<a href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2533/3675447172_049c6938f2.jpg?v=0"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 353px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2533/3675447172_049c6938f2.jpg?v=0" border="0" /></a><br />Look at those bully butts!<br /><br />Charlie and I got to hang out with <a href="http://rhapsodyinj.tumblr.com/">J</a> and Bella last night for some Bachelorette action. Fun times were had by all.<br /><br />Thoughts from last night's episode:<br /><br />*Why is Wes still around?<br />*How did Michael suddenly get so impossibly cute? (whispers) "I'll miss you." And now he's gone!<br />*Kiptyn is without a shirt approximately 1/3 to 1/2 of the time.<br />*Jesse's family has a winery AND a rock band. NICE!<br />*Wes is a tool.<br />*Hotel confrontations make for good tv.<br />*Balcony crying scenes two seasons in a row...way to go ABC.<br />*Ed is back. <strong>Go Team Ed!!</strong> You've got some making up to do, buddy.<br />*Reid has nice glasses that he should wear more often.<br />*Wes is a giant tool.--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426571131670870656.post-55918540427697465042009-06-27T16:05:00.011-05:002009-07-12T22:07:24.018-05:00Bread Baker's Apprentice Challenge - ChallahI've been wanting to perfect (or really get started on) my bread baking skills. It seems like my dough never rises right, or the crust browns before the inside is done. I heard about <a href="http://pinchmysalt.com/the-bba-challenge/">The Bread Baker's Apprentice Challenge</a> over at <a href="http://pinchmysalt.com/">Pinch My Salt</a> and decided to go for it. The rules are simple:<br /><br /><div><div><div><div>1.) <a href="http://www.blogger.com/" creative="390957&creativeASIN=" linkcode="as2&camp=" ie="UTF8&tag=">BUY</a> Peter Reinhart's awesome book The Bread Baker's Apprentice</div><br /><div>2.) <a href="http://pinchmysalt.com/the-bba-challenge/bba-breads/">FOLLOW</a> along with the group by baking one recipe per week</div><br /><div></div><div>3.) <a href="http://www.flickr.com/groups/bbac/pool/">SHARE</a> your successes, failures, tips, photos, etc</div><br /><div>4.) ENJOY the fruits of your labor..mmmm...</div><br /><div>So I FINALLY got my book in the mail and started today with Week #6 - Challah. It was a good, fairly simple recipe to begin with. </div><br /><div>Challah is a traditional Jewish yeast bread made with eggs. The dough turned out beautifully and the color was awesome with the addition of 2 eggs/2 egg yolks.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5352120579951523010" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDGc-ymZT2CCpywa9-W7eHhm0HbzH4Q3vTku31AQK0OpZ3W6wyyUIjrPFwgZ2SqfvRN3I91voGHb58KVIPKqYWV1_lS6b4YmgBmVSl7Yvdz6yEWRxNGCSAOtDtt0Sijf0Enorz8cYLarQS/s320/DSCN0001.JPG" border="0" /></div></div><br /><div>Two rounds of kneading meant the dough was silky smooth by the time it came around to forming the loaf.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5352121411364452354" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguao6-JvKeeNjChTSHGyKWESltNLmZliSVU1eYEYmehFp-oek7kFl-UpGQHmUQRpmTm6NLnhEvMM56XJRRXtPUhpZpxH-IyT0Y0jBPB_DOGsBRR5xStw6UezcQVjxtU3_a48Ji3oMh4E2V/s320/DSCN0002.JPG" border="0" /></div><br /><div>It took right at an hour to rise during the first fermentation period. The second went a bit quicker, and I knew it was working when the big bubbles started to form during the second rising. One reason for me to not curse this heat wave: bread dough loves heat and humidity.</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5352122414159369202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje44wh8swMZFOvux8dsY1D_DaEz7h8JDYcD4bfP7xsBjPfu56MIJ85yWms8ZOw9U43QPurMv1czNbyT_F3OJnblqy2VwZ3AanB2mGU322r2xSeCts0Ku5J0T59c8uNs_k3OnnD0LdVFgej/s320/DSCN0457.JPG" border="0" /> After separating the risen dough into six sections I rolled and braided. It's harder than I thought to roll springy, risen dough. It worked best to start in the middle of each section and move my hands away from one another at the same time while rolling.<br /><br /><div></div><div>I made one big and one small braid, and placed the smaller on top of the bigger to make the Celebration Loaf. Brushed the entire thing with an egg wash to make the crust crispy and golden and let it proof for a little longer. Traditionally, just before baking, you would sprinkle the top with seeds to symbolize manna from heaven. I was fresh out of poppy and sesame seeds thought, so I used a little bit of kosher salt to give the crust a nice flavor and a little sparkly texture.</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5352125630346917106" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5SesUObr5-vEWJGqXXvkgjlE5tx3PTNKkRsC1GBMEiPZ1-neaRlUpQl00aR_AtiMHACxZ1phrY19g5KPzJrh2xTOxdsi7AV8UvK8eSfwck1CkRDgpyLPlI4Ou201K20HGjTg7eHSAQXIf/s320/DSCN0461.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div>I was surprised at how much bigger it got during baking! It smelled wonderful and luckily I pulled it out at just the right time. The recipe said bake 20 minutes, rotate the loaf, and continue baking 20 to 40 additional minutes. I pulled mine after approximately 27 minutes total. Really need to get an instant read thermometer, but I just took a guess at it's doneness by the look of the crust, and it was perfect!</div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5352126417100872434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCyY8ixQ1wyIWsO7PzzCTRjUeAZsCbk_0Ap8hZLzt8UZToyqpVLyCDZgBChjzz9Cg4ebl_gYqxrFuMWt0mxwUva5JLgveiUlbaphOihCFpRRG_2RcT5xTWdjlL6MgBINeuEoQ_JRF2XcaE/s320/DSCN0463.JPG" border="0" /><br />The crumb turned out really well too. Very soft and springy with good uniformity and no gigantic air-pocket holes.<br /></div><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5352128107753411650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrWZGQ3EPHDFpBdvIK5vt6_N8-u_yAiDEjPe5CCjIici7wMQgONbH_9VnNVf5oYyJ_Cceraz0I69IYbaSVtSyrYjQQWoEto9YI74zaMrRMDwlvm82BzI8s4Z5fvgGUJNJtOWwBWjczaVXw/s320/DSCN0468.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div></div><div>The BF and I slathered it with butter (and a bit of honey on our second pieces). For my first venture, I'd call it a success! </div><div> </div><div>Next up: Ciabatta</div></div>--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426571131670870656.post-33710928505199024452009-06-25T08:42:00.006-05:002009-06-25T08:57:10.159-05:00Finding Your Glasses<a href="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/86/234477170_7fabb0f552.jpg?v=0"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 197px" alt="" src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/86/234477170_7fabb0f552.jpg?v=0" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><p>How much do I love Regina Spektor? This much <---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------> ...and more. </p><p>She just released a new album titled Far, and like her previous, it is magical. I can definitely hear a little influence from her recent work with Ben Folds. </p><p>I heard a great interview with Regina on NPR's Morning Edition this morning, in which she talks about singing in the shower, forgetting the lyrics, and finding "glasses" at an early age that opened up Beatles songs to her in an entirely new way.</p><p>Listen to the interview in it's entirety <a href="http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=105823657">here</a>. Her new song Eet will give you chills.</p><p>(photo courtesy <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/stuartleech/">Stuart Leech</a>)</p>--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426571131670870656.post-83434739364192843292009-06-18T16:06:00.005-05:002009-06-18T16:53:13.772-05:00Summer (Etsy) Lovin'It's been a while since I've made an <a href="http://www.etsy.com/">Etsy</a> wishlist, so I figure it's about time. The following are some of my summer favs...too bad my birthday isn't until December.<br /><div><div><div><div><br /><div>First, I need these awesome Boylan Soda Bottle Glasses from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=vt_related_1&listing_id=23005064">YAVA Glass</a>. Perfect for sipping cold drinks on the porch.<img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 368px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 230px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_430xN.63874350.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><p>Charlie dog needs this summer-citrusy collar from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=26661174">Lucky Fiona</a>.</p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 387px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 214px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_430xN.76127248.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br /><div>This beachy little "Heather" oil painting from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=26192953">thisisalliknow</a> reminds me of lazy days at the lake.<img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 381px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 505px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_430xN.74566329.jpg" border="0" /></div></div></div></div><br /><br /><p>I could pack picnic food or some road trip snacks in these eco-friendly and cute reusable snack bags from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=26365403">Waste Not Saks</a>. (Full disclosure: I already bought a couple of these and love them!)<img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 386px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 356px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_430xN.75141445.jpg" border="0" /></p></div><br /><p></p><p>And finally, this breezy, casual toadstool skirt from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=23533778">Made With Love By Hannah </a>would be perfect with a tank top and flip-flops on a hot day.<img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 399px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 384px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_430xN.65645611.jpg" border="0" /></p>--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8426571131670870656.post-66473577564040324352009-06-17T08:13:00.006-05:002009-06-17T08:26:11.640-05:00Hello, handsome.<a href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2473/3634454832_365ee3694c.jpg?v=0"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 380px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 278px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2473/3634454832_365ee3694c.jpg?v=0" border="0" /></a> This is my new bike that the BF so sweetly gifted me last weekend. Love, love, LOVE IT! It's a vintage Huffy that even came with the original sales paperwork from 1982. We found it at a crazy antique mall off I-70 and he was convinced that I needed it. He was right.<br /><br /><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 391px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 275px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3610/3633643659_133c286964.jpg?v=0" border="0" /> It's all original, and in really good condition, including tires, seat....<br /><br /><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 375px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 500px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3392/3634457568_18b1e730cf.jpg?v=1245202548" border="0" /><br /><div>...and this sweet sticker on the fender. I'll probably change a few things out just for the sake of updates and having tires younger than me on it.</div><br /><div></div><br /><div><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 388px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 278px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3313/3633642447_6c92ff7013.jpg?v=0" border="0" /></div><br /><p>Have taken him for a couple of spins around the block though and everything seems to be in excellent working order. I'm guessing it's been garaged for all this time.</p><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 375px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 500px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3541/3634458842_25a5e746ef.jpg?v=1245202509" border="0" />Oh new bike, you and I have some good times ahead.<br /><p></p>--Chttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05269483364133126110noreply@blogger.com0