Pass the Cereal

Movie Playlist

2012-01-27T06:00:00.075-06:00

Source: lylaandblu.com via Josephine on Pinterest

Do you hear a song and think immediately of a certain movie? I'm not talking about theme songs, just those that always make you think of the movie they played a part in. This mix is filled with my "movie songs" (and therefore is certainly dated), but I'd love to hear which songs make you think of movies!

Movie Song Mix
American Girl Tom Petty
Bittersweet Symphony The Verve
Kids In America Kim Wilde
People Are Strange The Doors
Son of a Preacher Man Dusty Springfield
Fight The Power Public Enemy
Time After Time Cyndi Lauper
Everyday Buddy Holly
In Your Eyes Peter Gabriel
Mess Around Ray Charles
My Sharona The Knack
If You Leave O.M.D
Stuck In The Middle With You Stealers Wheels

Have you guessed which movies these songs make me think of? I'll leave the answers in the comments sometime this weekend.

Origami Heart Bookmarks

2012-01-26T06:00:00.029-06:00

There are heart projects all over the blog-world these days, but I can't say that I've been feeling ambitious enough to try them out. However, this heart bookmark tutorial caught my eye. Jack & I tried our hands at creating origami yodas just last week (inspired by reading this book) and I figured if I could do that, I could definitely manage these beauties. I snuck the one shown above into Jack's book when he wasn't looking and that inspired him to try his hand at it too.

{sorry about the yellow pics...it was dark outside!}

It is a really nice tutorial and easy enough for both of us! One tip if you are using one-sided paper...start with the pretty side down and your heart will end up colorful!

Work-in-Progress Wednesday 18

2012-01-25T06:00:00.039-06:00

I started Livie's shrug for the wedding this weekend. It's actually a cardigan and I've never made one before, so I thought I may have some trouble. But it was going pretty well and I took this pic of Liv on Sunday. In hindsight, I can already see the trouble in this photo, but I didn't realize it then. See, I still had 3 more rows around the outsides and it's already well over her shoulder. Ooops! In full disclosure, I am using a different yarn than is recommended (as I wanted to use the same yarn I used for EJ's shrug) and I was working the 3-4 year old sizing on the pattern.

I didn't get a photo of her wearing it, but this is the point I was at when I needed to add the sleeves. Based on the photo in the pattern I thought this part was part of the sleeves. Again, in hindsight, this part is supposed to fit the kid's body only and the sleeves are completely separate. As you can imagine, the last four rows went down half of Liv's arm. Not going to work!

And so the work above became this...

And now it is this...

I started over with the same yarn, one size smaller hook, and the smaller-sized pattern (I will either do the 12-24 mo or the 2-3 year depending on how it fits Liv...so far they have been the same pattern). I have also decided not to work on it late in the evening (as I did the first time), so that I can regularly have Liv try it on to make sure I'm still on track!

Joining up with Yarn Along at Small Things & WIP Wednesday at Tami's Amis.

Ask A Silly Question...

2012-01-24T06:00:00.079-06:00

Perhaps a question like...what is that thing? (By the way, it's a dragon the Livie made for Chinese New Year at her school) Or it could be many questions, like for the kids' yearly questionnaire, which we completed last week. For the most part, I feel I could answer the questionnaires before they do (Newlywed Game style) and get most of our answers to match. But often they surprise me, or at least make me laugh, with their answers and it has been fun to go back and look at their past answers too.

I found one set of questions super interesting this year though. We always ask them to tell something they love about each person in their family.
About Me -
Jack - she always has crafts for us to do
EJ - she has fun stuff for us to do
Liv - we go everywhere...like the swimming pool...we just go everywhere

About Matt -
Jack - he plays games with us
EJ - he plays with us a lot
Liv - he makes all kinds of stuff with me, like we cook pancakes

Clearly we have pretty defined roles with the big kids and honestly, it is what I'd expect them to say. However, after looking at Olivia's responses, I found it curious how different their experiences with us are and I think I know why that is. When Liv was born, Jack was in half-day kindergarten and EJ was two. I stuck towards home with my new baby, where I could have some control of the situation, and so we made lots of crafts to fill our days. As Liv has grown, she's been the one who runs errands with me and gets to do the fun outings, while the big kids are in school (or morning summer school). Again, the big kids are doing projects with me during naptime or in the evenings at home. I know it's just the way it goes, but I find it very interesting how I'm the same mom, but seen two very different ways.

So yesterday, while Livie was making that dragon, Jack & EJ & I headed to the museum (they had the day off of school). It was an extremely quick trip, but they had a great time visiting the dinosaurs and the butterflies. And I had a great time making a memory with them "going somewhere" ... finally!

Santa Doesn't Tune Guitars

2012-01-23T06:00:00.035-06:00

Since Christmas, Jack has picked up his guitar to play it a little and it has been out of tune. Painful to listen to out of tune actually. So during Sunday naptime, we went to the internet for a little help.

With the help of this site, I got his guitar sounding much better. I can't say it's completely in tune, but it's the best I can do (I haven't tuned an instrument in probably 15 years or so) and it sounded a lot better.

Then we found this chord helper and spent the afternoon playing around trying to match the finger patterns and sounds. Who knew that you could do so much with a guitar and a mouse?

We've got to get this kid into guitar lessons though. He is loving playing around with the guitar, but I know how much more he would love it if he actually got the chance to learn a song or something! He's also pressuring us to let him join the orchestra at school. I figure if we're going to head into music lessons, we should start with an instrument we already own right?

The Hat Project

2012-01-20T06:00:00.001-06:00

As a Christmas gift from the kids to their Grandmothers, Godparents, teachers and VIPeeps, we collaborated on a hat project. The gift portion was the photo tag (shown above) attached to a kid-made winter hat ornament (click the link to see the tutorial from Goodknits).

{I didn't get a photo of any of their finished ornaments, so the pic on the right is from the Goodknits tutorial}

The mom-made portion of the gift was to crochet hats to donate to our area homeless shelter. I decided to make a number of sizes and patterns to make it more fun (and to fit more people too).

First up is the Ribbed Wrapped Cap For Kids. I really liked this pattern and it was an easy one to do in front of the tv or while other things were going on. The hat is pretty thick, so I think it will be nice and warm. I made one a little bigger than the pattern to fit my own head, so three kid-size and one mom-sized in this pattern.

Another pattern I tried out was the Men's Ribbed Hat. This one is the warmest hat by far and Matt really wants one of his own (it's that cozy). The folded brim makes it super adjustable for any head size and it seems to have a good stretch too. The pattern is a little monotonous, but it was a great one to work on while I listened to my first audiobook. The blue blob on the right is in progress here, but eventually became a finished hat.

The Easy Peasy Woman's Winter Hat is a great basic hat pattern, but it can be kind of hole-y when worn. I feel like it's more of a fashion hat than a keep someone warm outside in sub-zero temperatures hat. It was a simple pattern though, so I made one woman's sized hat and then three kid-sized hats (using EJ as a sizing guide).

With my last few skeins of yarn, I wanted to try some new patterns. The top two hats are from the Basic Guy Hat Pattern. The top left is similar to the Ribbed Wrapped Cap but in a much larger size. The top right is simple in that it is mostly just single crochet. Both patterns made very thick and warm hats. The bottom hat is the Crocheted Ribbed Hat. Again it is similar to the Ribbed Wrapped Cap but with a very different brim. It was fun to try each of these patterns to mix it up a bit.

In the end, fifteen crocheted hats are heading to the shelter next week (along with a crocheted scarf and several store-bought hats and gloves). This was a really fun project to do together (the kids worked on their hat ornaments while I crocheted) and it was fun to do a gift this year where we donated something we made (in the past we've done a monetary donation as part of the kids' gifts). Clearly, I need to collaborate with my kids more often!

Work-in-Progress Wednesday 17

2012-01-18T06:00:00.018-06:00

My brother is getting married in a few months and the kids are getting to play special roles on the big day. I found really cute dresses for the girls, but they are both sleeveless. I don't think that is going to work, especially given our late Winter this year, in early April. So, I figured that instead of trying to find them sweaters, I would make them instead. This is the start of EJ's shrug (I made it as written in the pattern and it's a perfect fit). It still needs edging and more sleeves, bit this is the basic shape. I did it in cotton (which just happened to be on sale) and the cost for the entire shrug will be under $2! It's a quick pattern too, so next week I'll move on to Liv's wedding sweater

Joining up with Yarn Along at Small Things & WIP Wednesday at Tami's Amis.

Quick Change

2012-01-17T06:00:00.000-06:00

{before photo (red) courtesy of accessory addiction}

I bought this vintage gumball machine over a year ago, but finally did the quick change I had planned for it just last week. A little disassembling, some spray paint, and a little soap & water gave quite the transformation. I'm loving the fresh new look in our dining room and the pop of turquoise.

Sledding

2012-01-16T06:00:00.025-06:00

As expected, the snow hit at the end of last week and so this weekend we went sledding. It is not my favorite thing in the world (I hate being cold), but we all had a good time. We left exhausted after lots of sledding, hill climbing, snow mold playing and snow angel making. Thank goodness for slippers and lots of hot chocolate!

Spring Green

2012-01-13T06:00:00.045-06:00

Two more friend birthdays...two more scarves/cowls. Apparently it's my signature gift (yes, that is me trying to make it sound better)? There are just so many great patterns out there and I can't resist them! In fact, I haven't hooked the same pattern twice.

So, last month I showed my two different (but very similar) skeins of green yarn and today I thought I'd show you what became of them. EJ is modeling the Queen Anne's Lace Scarf above and below is the finished Cardiff Cowl.

I didn't get a chance to have one of my models try it out, so was thrilled when Karri posted this pic for me to steal...hee, hee. I think it looks great on her...especially with the navy stripes.

I'm thinking I need to make myself a cowl (or start selling them given that I can't seem to stop making them). I am still building my list of cowls I love, but haven't made yet...1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6...

Seasons Change

2012-01-12T06:00:00.051-06:00

I have not been doing so great with Livie off at school most mornings. The house is too quiet, I have no one to talk to when running errands...it's kind of lonely. Yes, I know most of you just called me insane...out loud! I get that and I know that things will change before I know it. However, I realize now that even though I never, ever, ever planned to be a stay-at-home mom, clearly I was meant to be one. I've never been home alone (I've dreamed of it, but it doesn't usually happen) and I miss my goofy girl.

Luckily for me, the weather has been awesome the last couple weeks, so whenever the kitchen work crews have not been here to keep me company, I've been trying to get outside for a walk. I am also really lucky to live in a city with an amazing park system. I mean, I live in a city (not a huge one, but not small either) and yet I get to take walks with these kinds of views! What is also very cool is that these paths are super accessible to the city. There are busy streets right behind where I was standing to take both of these pics, but if you plug in your headphones and focus on the pretty stuff, you can easily forget where you are.

As you read this, we are supposed to be getting a bunch of snow. I am not happy about saying goodbye to these warm days (or as my friend dubbed it...January Spring), but real Spring will be here soon, right?

P.S. I tried to make a little joke with my post title there, but all it did was make me sing this the entire time I was writing...ugh!

Work-in-Progress Wednesday 16

2012-01-11T06:00:00.073-06:00

My work in progress this week if actually the beginning of a project in progress. I was inspired by this post from Hazel's Crochet and am going to start using up my little balls of leftover yarn for a very good cause. I'll be hooking them into 8" squares and sending them off to South Africa. The amazing organization knit a square then stitches them together into blankets and gives them to orphans (most who either have HIV/AIDS or have lost their parents to the disease) to provide warmth and comfort.

My goal is 4 squares each month (well actually probably 50 total for the year would be nicer). I'm not sure how often I will be sending them (whether I'll send in small envelopes or do larger shipments), but I'd be more than willing to add squares from other people if you are looking for something to do with your yarn stash. Each square should be 8" and can be knit or crocheted.

This week I completed four squares (using up 3 balls of Bamboo Ewe yarn in Snapdragon, Beach Glass and Mercury).

Creeping Trebles Square

Julie's Lady Square

Shell Block Square

Chophook Square

These are all probably fancier (and with too many holes) than they need to be and I plan to do more basic squares in the future, but this is a great way to play with some new stitches too. So far, I've found a couple great places to find patterns.

Hooked on Handmade - hooked a square for a month and listed/linked them all
Things to Make and Do - hooked a square per day for an entire year (she also made a wallpaper pic of her squares which I love & use on my desktop)
Crochet Pattern Central - a nice roundup where I found the patterns I used this week

I also ordered this book (can you believe there were no crochet block books at the library?) for some inspiration. I can't wait to try out some new patterns and the best part about this project is that squares really take no time at all, so they should be easy to do in between projects or as a break from big projects!

Joining up with Yarn Along at Small Things & WIP Wednesday at Tami's Amis.

Reading List Summary, December

2012-01-10T10:30:00.000-06:00

Family List
The Biggest, Best Snowman (Margery Cuyler)
Leaves! Leaves! Leaves! (Nancy Elizabeth Wallace)
Pumpkin Cat (Anne Mortimer)

Jack's List
Dinosaur Cove: Stampede of the Edmontosaurus (Rex Stone)
Bunnicula (Deborah and James Howe)
Mystery Fish: Secrets of the Coelacanth (Sally M. Walker)
Ballpark: The Story of America's Baseball Fields (Lynn Curlee)
Dinosaur Cove: Flight of the Quetzalcoatlus (Rex Stone)
The Boxcar Children #10: Schoolhouse Mystery (Gertrude Chandler Warner)
Soccer Longshot (C.J. Renner)
Army Ant Parade (April Pulley Sayre)
Score! The Action and Artistry of Hockey's Magnificent Moment (Mark Stewart)
The Boxcar Children #13: Snowbound Mystery (Gertrude Chandler Warner)
The Boxcar Children #5: Mike's Mystery (Gertrude Chandler Warner)
Kickers Book 1: The Ball Hogs (Rich Wallace)

Mom's List
My Life as a Furry Red Monster (Kevin Clash)
Blue Nights (Joan Didion)

Reading List Dump

2012-01-10T06:00:00.008-06:00

Just wanted to give a little warning that I will be catching up on Reading List Summary posts, so those who read through Reader may have a lot of posts backed up today (sorry, I got way behind). I am back dating the posts, so those who visit the blog itself should only see December.

I also wanted to show off my new library bag. Because it might just be my favorite thing ever. I can't say for sure (although it is right up there), but I do know I got super spoiled this Christmas!

Test Your Movie Smarts

2012-01-09T06:00:00.038-06:00

Matt and I played a fun game we found this weekend online called Famous Objects From Classic Movies...super fun! You are shown a silhouette pic like the one above and you have to guess the movie. Some are pretty obvious (although we both had a couple we were embarrassed to have missed) and some are more difficult, but it is set up Wheel of Fortune style so there is a chance to fill in letters and take a guess as well if you're stumped. The more questions you answer correctly, the more rounds you get to play.

The other movie challenge we did last week was the 80s and 90s movie alphabets. We got some help from friends and I think we've finally figured out the answer to each picture. One hint is that the letter of the alphabet is the first letter in the movie title.

I'm sad that they would pass up a classic 80s flick like Quicksilver, but still fun nonetheless. Enjoy!

Reading Goal

2012-01-05T06:00:00.040-06:00

Source: weheartit.com via heather on Pinterest

In 2011, I read 48 books. Some were kid books (pre-reading to see if they'd be good for Jack), some were classics, some were recommended by friends, some were old favorites and some were celebrity trash novels. So, while it might not have all been worthwhile reading, it was beyond worthwhile to me to be making time to read again. There is magic in books and I missed reading and discovering.

This year I would like to keep up the reading (of course) and I have a little goal too. I'd like to read a few (maybe 10) biographies of women who have shaped or are shaping American history. These can't be scholarly biographies as I know I don't have the time/concentration to devote to that type of writing, but I'd love a book that has substance and can teach me more about each woman's history. Any suggestions?

Oh, and if you have any other must-read books you'd like to recommend, I'll gladly take those suggestions too. I'm finishing up my current book now (before I get more library fines) and have one more in the queue, but then I have no idea what is next...

Cooking with Pinterest

2012-01-04T06:00:00.056-06:00

Over the holidays, I tried out some of my recipe pins and thought I'd share the wins and epic fails! All photos included are from the original pins, because, let's face it, that is going to be the prettier option.

Source: Uploaded by user via Karri on Pinterest

Champagne Jello Jigglers = Win (but I'd make changes next time)

Mine were not this pretty as I could not find white grape jello so ended up using purple grape jello (not quite as elegant). Also, I made these during the afternoon, then cut, sugared (I used white sanding sugar) & plated them but didn't serve them until evening at a friend's house. So...the sugar melted into the jello and the plate got a bit soupy. Other than those issues though, these were good!

The recipe/formula I used was:
2 - 3oz boxes jello
1 cup boiling water
Mix until dissolved and then cool to room temperature.
Add 1/2 cup champagne
Cool in refrigerator for a few hours.

Source: penniesonaplatter.com via heather on Pinterest

Queso Blanco Dip = Epic Fail

I am not sure what my trouble is with this recipe, as there are no comments about it not working anywhere on the recipe post, but when I tried to melt this in the microwave it was half congealed mess and half water. I had some extra ingredients, so I tried it again a few days later on the stovetop and it melted a little better but still had a lot of extra liquid. The taste was good, but the dip was not.

Source: kitchenfunwithmy3sons.blogspot.com via Christina on Pinterest

Christmas Tree Fruit Tray = Win

Due to our kitchen renovation mess, I only brought fruit to my Mom's house for Christmas Eve. I thought I could at least make it pretty, so when I saw this pin I thought I should give it a try. We did not have a tree pan at our disposal, so Matt pulled some MacGyver action on a disposable rectangular pan I bought. We did the tree in green grapes, maraschino cherries for the garland and mandarin oranges for the star. It was cute and a big hit with my kids, so I consider it a win.

Source: dineanddish.net via heather on Pinterest

Ice Cream Cone Snack Mix = Huge Win

I pinned this idea ages ago as Olivia loves ice cream cones (she's grown to love the ice cream, but she has always loved the cone). These ended up being a big hit at our friends' family New Year's Eve gathering. The cones were a perfect cup and it turns out that Olivia wasn't the only one who enjoyed snacking on the cone too. I made our snack mix with chocolate cheerios, yogurt raisins, peanuts, chocolate chip teddy grahams, and licorice bites.

Source: the-girl-who-ate-everything.com via heather on Pinterest

Peanut Butter "Cheese Ball" = Huge Win

Although technically, I did not make this, I did enjoy it! I have had this pinned for some time and so I was thrilled when I saw that my friend Jackie had made it. It did not disappoint...yum!!!

She's out of here!

2012-01-03T09:00:00.001-06:00

This is not pretend-time my friends! This is Miss Olivia getting ready for her first day of school today. She has waited and waited for it to be her turn (see her ugly pout back in September) and she couldn't be more thrilled to start her own school adventures. I've never seen her get ready faster and she waved goodbye to us from the door of her school with a big smile. I can't wait to go pick her up (and I'm very glad that she is only gone a couple of mornings each week too)!

She did it again!

2011-12-30T06:00:00.029-06:00

Last September, EJ cut her long hair to a super cute bob. She loved her new look but immediately decided that she wanted to start growing it out to donate again to Pantene Beautiful Lengths. She made it a year and then this Fall has asked almost daily if her hair was long enough to donate. She really wanted to donate again, but she really wanted her short hair back too. So we measured and estimated, and I promised that she could cut her hair again during Christmas break. She made it! Her ponytails measured in at just over the minimum 8-inch length and on their way to Ohio.

She absolutely loves her new look!

Let's face it though, the glitter spray and jingle bell hair clip certainly sealed the deal!

Gifts We Are Loving

2011-12-29T06:00:00.093-06:00

{products & images via One Up Designs and Earmark}
Maybe it's just the office supply geek in me, but I love pencils. Make those pencils fun (with awesome references) and I'm completely hooked! I gifted each of the pencil sets above for Christmas and I think they were pretty well-received. My favorite was Matt's Reservoir Dogs set.

{photos courtesy of Patch Products and Spin Master Games}
We are always on the look out for games we can play as a family. Usually that means that each of the adults need to pair up with a girl, but we received these games at Christmas and they are the ultimate family games. Olivia (who is 2 and a half) can play with just a little help from us, but is her own team and does great. These are simple games, but interesting enough to keep the kids attention and, best of all, really portable (and compact) making them nice travel or "restaurant waiting time" games. Toss Up reminds me of Farkle, but is color-based so minimal addition is needed (and adults can easily advise). Left Center Right reminds us of a game we used to play with Matt's Grandma (3 quarters each and dice or cards were involved). Anyone know of that game?

{First Big Book of Animals, Every Day on Earth, Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?, The Strange Case of Origami Yoda}
This house is full of book-lovers and so it goes without saying that the number one gifted item in this house was books...way too many to count or include all of our favorites here. I thought I would include a couple intriguing titles. Animal pics and facts, a story of a fortune-telling origami yoda, a gazillion facts about the world around us for Jack to memorize and a book by a very funny lady (one whose name Matt pretended not to recognize when I said she wrote The Office Christmas episode even though he had already purchased her book for me).

{similar case can be purchased here}

But my favorite gift was my new iphone cassette tape cover. LOVE IT! I wonder if Matt has been checking out my i love the 80s Pinterest board?

What were your favorite gifts this December?

Christmas Photo Bomb

2011-12-28T06:00:00.056-06:00

I didn't take a lot of photos this Christmas, but I still have a bunch I'd like to share. Most are of present opening as that was my "downtime" of the weekend. This year was a great one and it was fun to watch Jack receive big kid presents and help his sisters. It was fun to watch EJ being a big girl so full of love and thanks. And it was super fun to watch Livie "get" opening presents. She was the most fun to watch at my Mom's where she repeatedly exclaimed, "Oh my goodness! I love it! It's just what I wanted!!!" One of the rare times that I wished I had been taking video. While they got some amazing gifts and Santa was good to them, rest assured that their favorite gifts are the ones above...a new blanket & stuffed animal. We could have saved a lot of shopping time!

Hope your Christmas was as magical as ours!

Christmas Mix

2011-12-22T06:00:00.055-06:00

Source: flickr.com via heather on Pinterest

Our Family Christmas Mix
White Christmas The Drifters
Little Drummer Boy Harry Simeone Chorale
Jingle Bells Bing Crosby
Children Go Where I Send Thee Natalie Merchant
The Christmas Song Ella Fitzgerald
Cool Yule Louis Armstrong
Let It Snow Dean Martin
Skating Vince Guaraldi Trio
I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm Billie Holiday
Santa Claus Is Coming to Town Jackson 5

Our favorite holiday tunes in a little mix to help you get into the spirit of the season. Do you have any "must listen" songs for this time of year? Please share (especially newer songs...clearly, we are old-school in our picks)!

Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah! I'm going to take some time away from the blog to celebrate with my family (and organize our crazy house too)! Hope you have a wonderful holiday!

Work-in-Progress Wednesday 15

2011-12-21T06:00:00.020-06:00

Well, my big work-in-progress this week was finishing up Jack's soccer ball and baseball (click links for patterns). The soccer ball turned out so large that I had to run to the store for another bag of stuffing! Here is the ball next to EJ's head for scale.

Now, I am working on two super secret birthday gifts. I realized today I was making both in very similar greens, but different yarns. Guess I was feeling extra Christmas-ey? Or wishing for a little Spring perhaps?

Joining up with Yarn Along at Small Things & WIP Wednesday at Tami's Amis.

Sending a Rainbow...

2011-12-20T09:00:00.017-06:00

Source: easymakesmehappy.blogspot.com via heather on Pinterest

to those that could use a bright spot on this tough day! Love you!

Santa Time

2011-12-19T06:00:00.020-06:00

The kids visited the man himself...and Liv wasn't even scared this year.
Gift requests:
Jack - Wii game
EJ - doll house
Olivia - a kitty...you know, a real one!

We wrote and mailed our yearly letters at the Make-A-Wish mailbox.

And we watched The Grinch. This is EJ comforting Livie (even though she was the one that was scared).

The big day is getting closer and we are trying to make a little magic this week...finally!

Fav Foto Friday, Joy

2011-12-16T06:00:00.030-06:00

Holiday Sing was yesterday and I love this event. Every year we pack into the gym like sardines, we fight with the other parents and their crazy recording devices, and usually we juggle ten tons of winter gear with the puddles all over the floor (not their year though...yay!). Yet in the end, we love every second of watching these awesome kids perform. It's always a blast!

And any other week, the sight of my dining room looking like this would not bring me any joy...

However right now, it means I'm one step closer to having cabinets IN my kitchen, so I'm thrilled! I'm really hoping that by the time you are reading this, my kitchen has been painted and a bunch of guys are installing like crazy people! Appliances come tomorrow (then the long wait for countertops, tile, and all the other fun details).

Oh, and on top of everything, yesterday was Jack's birthday. Okay not really, but we definitely celebrated it last night. Three months ago (when it actually was his birthday), he choose this restaurant for his birthday dinner, but they were closed. So we promised a make-up dinner and last night was it! It was kind of nice to add some fun to our crazy week...definitely felt the joy!

Linking up with Nora - see more joy at Fav Foto Friday!

Hey Girl

2011-12-15T06:00:00.041-06:00

Last weekend, Matt & I watched Crazy, Stupid, Love and really liked it. We realized that neither of us had ever seen a Ryan Gosling movie before. In fact, we had to look up what he had been in before to even make that determination. But as the movie went on, I put two and two together and realized I had seen him around the internet/pinterest in some fun posts from Feminist Ryan Gosling and Handmade Ryan Gosling. Enjoy!

Work-in-Progress Wednesday 14

2011-12-14T06:00:00.004-06:00

Working away on my Christmas gifts to the kids. Somehow they all ended up with surprise portions to their gifts anyway, so a lot of naptime and evening work for sure. Here are some sneak peeks (phone camera quality)...one from each group.

Back to work for me!
P.S. We have no kitchen and I couldn't be more thrilled! Well, let's be honest, I'm a little concerned, but if you saw my ripped apart walls you'd scared too.

Joining up with Yarn Along at Small Things & WIP Wednesday at Tami's Amis.

Still shopping...

2011-12-13T06:00:00.069-06:00

I've got some great shops for you to check out (and some uber-talented friends)!

1) Green D Designs -
Gorgeous necklaces, fun appliqued shirts and lots more to come (grand opening)!

3) Emilee Rose -
Calendars, greeting cards, paper dolls and custom art...all drawn by a fabulous girl!

3) Let It Unwind -

Art prints and canvases of some incredible photographs (Waterlilies is my fav).

4) Nellie*Design -
Stationery, party invites/decor, announcements, cards, custom design...Nellie makes everything paper much cooler with her fresh designs. And don't miss her blog where she shares her work and often shares freebies, like these great gift tags!

All photos are courtesy of their respective shops. Do not copy without permission from their owner.

Take three

2011-12-12T10:30:00.000-06:00

{our kitchen circa false alarm number 2}

You might be wondering what our kitchen looks like now since I announced two weeks ago that it was set to be demo'ed the next day. Well, it pretty much looks just like the photo above. Yep, the cabinets didn't make the truck on week one and then our crew was busy on week two. So we've spent two weeks getting dishes from the dining room, pots & pans from the basement, and appliances (quesadilla maker anyone) from Jack's room. Inconvenient, but honestly, okay. We had water and a sink and a fridge and all our things accessible...not too bad (but very drafty with those cabinet fronts removed).

So, against my better judgement, I'm going to announce the current plan which hopefully will go off without a hitch! Tomorrow is demo, Wednesday is drywall, Thursday I paint walls (Jack's holiday sing is early afternoon, so if I'm covered in paint, please don't judge), Friday is cabinet install, and Saturday appliances arrive. I'm honestly not sure at all about the smaller projects (like tiling and sink installation, etc.), but I'm thrilled that we're looking at only one week without a kitchen!

Our countertops will take awhile though (like 4 weeks or so) as they won't order until the cabinets are in and they can measure accurately. So we'll we rocking plywood counters for Christmas. Does anyone know where I can find vinyl tablecloths? Thought it might make the wood a little safer and easier to clean up.

Everybody cross your fingers, okay? I really want a big mess in my kitchen tomorrow!

Fav Foto Friday, Prepare

2011-12-09T06:00:00.028-06:00

There has been a lot of preparing going on in our house this week...some Christmas related, some just fun!

Preparing to truly "get it" this year! (she has been a blast to watch so far)

Beginning to celebrate all the wonderful lights and decorations

Getting fancy new specs

Getting ready for dance class

Getting rid of a mullet (this is post-mullet with a sassy face)

Being extra grateful for the little things...her for the Tigress pez dispenser, me for that gorgeous little girl (and her dimples)!

Linking up with Nora - see more preparacion at Fav Foto Friday!

A tale of two cowls

2011-12-08T06:00:00.064-06:00

Two great friends with November birthdays meant I wanted to craft up something cute and functional for both these awesome ladies. I have been loving all the infinity scarf patterns popping up on blogs and pinterest, so I picked two and got to work. Same yarn, same idea...very different patterns!

The first cowl (soft stitch cowl) was gifted for a birthday on 11-11-11. Cool right?

{Yes, I tried them on and took pics of myself to share...I have no shame.}

It is warm, but feels light, and was super comfy doubled up, but I liked how it looked single too.

The second cowl (chunky circle scarf) will definitely keep you warm. It is made with two skeins of yarn, so it's bulky, but the pattern is so pretty that it could definitely be an indoor scarf as well. Of course I sent this one to a friend in a semi-warm climate. I might not have planned that out so well, but I really hope she's still able to wear it.

I was super pleased with how both scarves came out and would make them again. I think the soft stitch cowl may be a go-to gift item...right after I make one for myself!

Work-in-Progress Wednesday 12

2011-12-07T06:00:00.015-06:00

I'm still plugging along on the soccer ball pillow. I've got all the pieces stitched with their ends woven in and started the joining process yesterday. Right now it just looks like a giant flower, but I laid out the next couple joins to give you an idea of where it is headed. I am guessing it is going to be much bigger than I anticipated. I can't wait to see for sure!

Joining up with Yarn Along at Small Things & WIP Wednesday at Tami's Amis.

MKEfoodies Holiday Bake Sale

2011-12-06T06:00:00.071-06:00

We are doing the upcoming holidays without an oven/kitchen, so I am beyond excited to fill our house with yummy treats from this wonderful event. I get to bring home lots of goodies and support an amazing cause at the same time!

MKEfoodies Holiday Bake Sale
Saturday, December 10, 2011
12 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Best Place at the Historic Pabst Brewery
901 W. Juneau Avenue

The bake sale will feature a wide variety of holiday treats and eats made by local area food bloggers, bakers, and businesses. FoodFightMKE will be sponsoring a cookie decorating table for kids of all ages. All guests will be invited to enjoy coffee from Stone Creek Coffee and tea provided by Rishi tea.

More info: www.mkefoodies.com

Facebook invite: https://www.facebook.com/events/261680797206606/

Donation page: http://cookiesforkidscancer.kintera.org/mkefoodies

Cookies for Kids’ Cancer: www.cookiesforkidscancer.org

All proceeds will go to Cookies for Kids' Cancer, a 501(c)3 non profit founded by parents inspired by their son Liam's battle with cancer. They were shocked to learn that the main reason over 25% of kids diagnosed with cancer do not survive is because of a lack of effective therapies. And the reason for the lack of therapies was very simple: lack of funding. They pledged to support the development of new and better treatments by giving people a simple way to get involved.

Decking the Halls

2011-12-05T06:00:00.040-06:00

Our new tree is out of the box, decorated and dazzling! Seriously though, we couldn't be more thrilled. We went with a bargain-priced internet-only tree from a national home improvement store (free shipping) after our in-person shopping was a bit of a bust. I was so apprehensive, but the tree is really nice...a little thinner than our old one, but super tall (and having the lights on already was really nice).

Decorating was a family effort and everything went smoothly until we got to the star. All three of them wanted to put that star up and everyone had a reason as to why they were worthy of the honor. We told them we needed to think about it overnight and when they got up the next day...someone had already done the job for them!

This weekend also brought a visit to our village tree lighting, some gift crafting and shopping for our giving tree gifts. In full disclosure, we also spent a good amount of time removing cabinet hardware & doors and working with Jack on his science presentation prep, but overall this weekend was about building Christmas spirit. I'd say we're ready for St. Nick to pop by tonight!

Chistmas is coming...

2011-12-02T06:00:00.055-06:00

He's back!!! Actually Christmas fun is popping up all over the house this week, but the elf appeared yesterday morning on top of our newly delivered Christmas tree (hopefully this weekend the tree will get out of the box).

Advent calendars appeared yesterday too. I got chocolate calendars for the kids (they've never had this kind before, so they are pretty excited) and the Santa's beard printable is available right here (just add cotton balls).

World Market has the best shaped pastas. You wouldn't think the shape of the pasta would change my kids eating habits, but it does. If the green noodle is shaped like Santa, they actually eat it!

Grandma S turned them on to the Santa Tracker channel this week. They are loving all the holiday read-a-long stories (and so am I because it gave me time to both cook and clean up dinner last night).

I brought out all the Christmas books and put them in a bin in the living room for easy access. I didn't remember us having so many, but given the amount of books they read the first night, I'm certainly glad we do!

Jack left a note for the elf along with a book he had written for Santa. It looks as if the Christmas magic is still alive in my big-hearted, big kid...yay!

Reading List Summary, November

2011-12-01T06:00:00.089-06:00

Family List
Have You Seen Duck? (Janet Holmes)
Animals Come Home (Loes Riphagen)

Traffic Pups (Michelle Meadows)
Me and You (Anthony Browne)
Ferret Fun (Karen Rostoker-Gruber)
The Ocean Story (John Seven)
Charlie the Ranch Dog (Ree Drummond)

Twenty-Six Princesses (Dave Horowitz)
Poindexter Makes a Friend (Mike Twohy)
Clifford's Kitten (Norman Bridwell)
Thanksgiving (David F. Marx)
Clementine (Sebastian Loth)

First Garden: The White House Garden and How It Grew (Robbin Gourley)
Clifford the Small Red Puppy (Norman Bridwell)

Jack's List

The Phantom Tollbooth (Norton Juster)
Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers: Super Bowl XLV (Michael Sandler)
The Spy Game (created by Gertrude Chandler Warner)

Face to Face with Polar Bears (Norbert Rosing)
The Time Warp Trio: Oh Say, I Can't See (Jon Scieszka)

Mom's List
Hoot (Carl Hiaasen)
A Little Bit Wicked (Kristin Chenoweth)

Dark at the Roots (Sarah Thyre)

Who Loves Owls?

2011-12-01T06:00:00.059-06:00

Remember this Work-in-Progress? Back then it looked a lot like a bag, but it turned into this little owl pillow. The pattern is from the book Little Crochet by Linda Permann, but I spied it originally on Pinterest. I didn't stray far from the original color scheme, but added a little magenta to brighten it up.

{photo from Little Crochet}

{my version- I also stuffed mine with a prefab pillow and did not include the top zipper}

The only issue I had with the pattern was the size. When I started the base, it seemed much too small, as I had intended it to be a comfy pillow to lean on while reading. I ripped it apart and doubled the pattern, but after 5 rows realized it might end up body pillow-size and would take a long time to finish. So I ripped it apart once more and followed the pattern as written. As you can see, it came out just right (although Livie was not happy that the owl was flying off to a new home)!

Work-in-Progress Wednesday 11

2011-11-30T06:00:00.040-06:00

It's a different kind of WIP Wednesday today. Sure I've finished a couple small projects and I'm still plugging along at the soccer ball pieces, but the main work I've done this week is emptying out our kitchen (and the basement, but I am not going to show you that).

Yes, you may have noticed that the kitchen is still two different colors. I was always planning to finish up the grey, but it never quite happened. It looks as if the kitchen will be demolished later this week (nothing is positive, but emptying the kitchen in a manner that still allowed me to find things took some time) and then I'll be painting it a brand-new color. I'm really excited!

Today I need to work on emptying the pantry spaces, removing the hardware & my radio, and determining if I need to find a new home for the food in our fridge (or if we can possibly disconnect the water line and move it into the dining room).

We may or may not have a new kitchen finished for Christmas, but I'm pretty happy we're starting on the project (seven years after we moved in & agreed that it was the first thing we needed to change)!

UPDATE: Looks like it's a good thing I packed the kitchen so things were accessible. Our cabinets did not make the truck this week, so demolition is moving to the end of next week.

Doll Hair

2011-11-29T06:00:00.074-06:00

A few months ago I asked for some advice on taming the hair on the girls' Dora vanity table. I bought a wig brush, but I couldn't even begin to get it through her hair. Then I stupidly left it with the table and the girls gave it a shot. Do you see the brush in the photo on the right? It was stuck! Clearly, the hair was much worse and so I gave up and kind of forgot about it.

Last week I saw friend's pin to this tutorial on taming doll hair. It involved the wig brush (which I already had once I pried/ripped it from the knotted locks) and a spray bottle filled with a fabric softener/water mix. It took a lot of spray, a lot of patience, and a few lost "spokes" from the wig brush, but eventually it started working. Can you tell which half is brushed?

Dora lost some hair in the process too, but look at the snarls and craziness I was up against!

A friend of mine recently told me about how his niece's AG doll was checked into the "hospital" due to hair issues. In the end, they sent her doll back with a new head because the hair was too far gone. Oh, how I longed for that to be an option during this process. It took a really long time!

Her hair is super damaged, as you can see in the photo below. All of this hair is combed through, but the back suffered less & so returned to a semi-straight look. The sides were not so lucky!

In the end, this process was worth it. Dora's hair has no knots (or things stuck within) and you can run a brush through it. On the downside, it is greasy to the touch and will apparently always be styled a la Diana Ross. It's not exactly "new head" condition, but it's much closer than before!

An easier Christmas

2011-11-28T06:00:00.059-06:00

Source: rageagainsttheminivan.com via nora on Pinterest

I saw this a couple times on Pinterest this weekend and thought it should be seen even more! It's all good advice and we try to follow these ideas as much as possible! Shopping local, buying experiences as gifts, supporting artists (local or through etsy), giving donations as gifts, and making things for others are amazing & easy ways to gift for the holidays (as well as the rest of the year).

We got started with some gift-making this weekend and the coffee table became craft central (I'm not sharing what we're working on because they are gifts for blog readers).

Our motto is...

Source: joyshope.com via heather on Pinterest

Need ideas for handmade gifts? Check out the Projects page!

Work-in-Progress Wednesday 10

2011-11-23T06:00:00.046-06:00

These are my current stacks of works-in-progress...library books and African flower pentagons and hexagons. Last Christmas, I worked during every naptime & late into the evening on secret amigurumi animals for the kids. I was a little tired and finished just before I needed to gift them! So this year, I decided to still do a handmade gift, but let the kids each pick out a pattern. Jack couldn't decide what he wanted, so he still gets a surprise gift.

Luckily for me, stacks of these white hexagons and black pentagons really don't give away what they will be in the end...a soccer ball pillow. Cute, right? I'm currently at 8 black & 7 white (of a needed 12 and 20)...and then I'll have to go into hiding to sew them together.

Joining up with Yarn Along at Small Things & WIP Wednesday at Tami's Amis.

A Different Kind of Black Friday Shopping

2011-11-22T08:00:00.031-06:00

{our tree, circa 2009}

After over 15 years of loyal service, our tree is going to need to be replaced. It's such a good tree (whether they were being kind or not, many people have said they thought it was real), but it has literally been falling apart the past few years, so the time has come.

We are planning to go with a pre-lit tree because, let's face it, putting on Christmas tree lights is a special kind of torture. I'm hoping that is a good choice.

But my biggest problem right now is where to find an affordable tree (remember, we are a super cheap family) that you can't see through (I saw several at Target with about 15" between branches). We bought our last one at a garden store in Illinois. I'm wondering if that is where we need to go again...the garden centers around here?

I guess the plus side is that there shouldn't be any Black Friday craziness at the garden store. At least I hope not!

Turkey Ticker

2011-11-21T06:00:00.026-06:00

If you're a local friend, click here to donate a turkey to a family in need this Thanksgiving. Rexnord is partnering with the Hunger Task Force and doubling every donation! Currently the count is at 624 turkeys but there are so many families in need that we need to help this number grow before Thanksgiving. You can click here for the current totals or if you happen to be on I-94 (near Miller Park) check out the Hunger Task Force's electronic billboard.

Fav Foto Friday, Grateful 2

2011-11-18T09:00:00.000-06:00

Very thankful for 3 extra peanuts in our house last night! I'm pretty sure all the girls (including their moms) stayed up too late talking (and will pay for the lack of sleep today), but that is what family is all about, right?

Linking up with Nora - see more reasons for thanks at Fav Foto Friday!

Funny Pages

2011-11-17T06:00:00.011-06:00

My big kid is sitting next to me reading comics from the newspaper. He told me he loves comics. It made me think of a comic I used to love. How old do you think you need to be to "get" Calvin & Hobbes? What other comics do you think you I could get Jack hooked on? I really think he could use some of this (and some extra laughs) in his life!

Work-in-Progress Wednesday 9

2011-11-16T06:00:00.050-06:00

This is what became of my WIP last week...a little frog. He was really easy to do and came out super cute (and tiny). If you'd like to make one, the pattern is here. I may make another as this guy is on his way to becoming a Christmas gift.

I did try my hand at blocking this week. I was super glad I hadn't purged the old alphabet block tiles in my basement clean-up efforts as they are perfect for this process. It went much better than I thought it would, but if I'm going to need to block again, I'm going to need straight pins (safety pins were kind of a pain to use).

The lovely Miss EJ modeling the finished scarf. This was a really quick and easy pattern...so much so that I never had time to put it in a WIP post. The yarn is Vanna's Choice Silver Heather (2 skeins needed) which gives a somewhat heathered, somewhat shiny look. Love how it came out and can't wait to send it to its new owner!

The real work in progress this week is the haul I got at the yarn sale! Each of these skeins was just $1.50! This batch is for hats, scarves, and mittens to donate to the homeless (1 hat & 1 scarf are completed to date).

And this batch is needed for my Christmas projects for the kids (the 2 gray on the bottom right were for the scarf shown above).

Pretty sure I need to get hooking! Joining up with Yarn Along at Small Things & WIP Wednesday at Tami's Amis.

Granny Square Cowl

2011-11-15T06:00:00.031-06:00

This gift has been delivered so I can show the final result (it was a secret WIP in this post). It is a granny square cowl that I made for a friend's birthday. Liv is modeling the doubled-up way to wear it and here I am wearing it as a single loop.

In hindsight, I think I made it a little smaller than I would have liked (I did just six granny squares), but it fit (tightly) doubled over my neck too, so hopefully my friend will get some use out of it. I went with a neutral color scheme with some brights mixed in to make it more fun. I think you could easily make this cowl look a million different ways.

This is the original color scheme that Alice at Crochet with Raymond chose...love it! You can find her pattern for the Granny Cowl here.

{photo courtesy of Crochet with Raymond}

Simple Pleasures

2011-11-14T06:00:00.029-06:00

I know this photo is technically terrible, but it is my current absolute favorite! This was also my absolute favorite part of the weekend...watching my daughter dance and laugh and play with kids that look a lot like her, that were born in the same place she was, and who now are a part of mixed families just like ours. There is nothing like their joy and there is no replacement for a network like this...for the kids and for the parents. We are beyond blessed to have such an amazing Latin American Adoptive Families group in our community and are thrilled to be a part of it!

This weekend was our annual Fiesta, which is always so much fun! You'd think EJ would have been excited to see her friends (she was) and that she may have chosen an "extra fancy" outfit for the occasion (she did), but the thing she was waiting and waiting and waiting for cracks me up. We did a workshop with a local chef to learn how to make guacamole. She could not wait...and she did a great job making, and tasting, our guac!

One last simple pleasure from the weekend was watching the annual pumpkin smash. I try to just be the documentarian of the operation but Matt and the kids are extremely hands-on! I have a ton of photos of the destruction, but I thought this one was pretty darn awesome.

Have a great week everybody!

Fav Foto Friday, Grateful

2011-11-11T06:00:00.072-06:00

This week we are thankful for...

1. The art easel coming out of hiding and joining the fun in the playroom. The girls have been busting out crayon masterpieces one after the other!

2. The catalogs have arrived and, just like Mom used to, the kids are choosing all kinds of awesome things from their pages. Jack has had a couple lessons on deciding if he truly likes something once he see the price, so that has been good too.

3. Date night with the big kids - They were deemed too germ-y to be around their cousins, so I took them out for dinner & we picked up a redbox. No offense to Miss Livie, but wow the night was easy without a 2-year-old in tow.

4. Fish face - Seriously, this girl cracks me up every day with the things she does and says. This is good because it balances out her ugly 2-year-old fits (yet another thing I've blocked out of my memory, like childbirth & potty-training).

5. A new notebook to start my Christmas gift list - Say Anything was full but then I remembered I had Sixteen Candles waiting in the wings. It's truly the little things in my world and VHS notebooks are a big one!

6. And speaking of the holidays, fun to see our pics from last year on this super cute card design from Nellie*Design. She has many more incredible designs right here if you need to start work on your holiday cards, and she is incredible to work with too! In fact, I'm also very thankful that she did a custom design for our cards this year...I can't wait to send them out!

{card design by nellie*design}

7. All of you...MWAH!

Linking up with Nora - see more reasons for thanks at Fav Foto Friday!

Here Comes the Rain Again...

2011-11-10T06:00:00.087-06:00

This week started out so beautifully weather-wise. And then I finally got both big kids back in school (after extended sick days) and the weather went from September to November overnight! The girls were not happy walking to dance class in the rain & cold, but at least they got to look cute doing it right? Well, that is if you ignore their faces...EJ is freezing so she's mad that I'm making her stop for a pic and Livie had some challenges holding her new cat umbrella (so I carried it most of the way to school).

In other news this week:
-I know it's Fall, but every day I see at least 3 projects involving burlap. And every time I see one, I think of Karri & smile.
-I'm cleaning the basement again (I blame Cyndi for cleaning hers and inspiring me). I decided to take a different approach this time (so far it's actually working) and am hoping for the best. You wouldn't believe the treasures (not really) I'm finding down there!
-I did find a bag of sample-size shampoos & conditioners we were "gifted" while visiting hotels. We've taken them to women's shelters before, but this time around we're donating them to an organization that helps the homeless in our area. If you travel, this is a really easy (and free) way to help others.
-Movember is here again. This year Matt is growing a goatee. It's still weird and annoying, but I realized (in the middle of a meeting at school) that it is less embarrassing than just the stache. I feel like Matt should wear a button announcing that he is embracing the 70s for a good cause...for my sake.
-Saw this trailer for the new film about Kevin Clash (aka Elmo) and really hope it comes to our area sometime soon. Looks like a great story about following your heart, passion and dreams that I would love to share with my kids.

Work-in-Progress Wednesday 8

2011-11-09T06:00:00.077-06:00

This could possibly be the worst WIP photo ever. Sorry...the nuts and bolts of the week is I started a new memoir, I moved on to season 5 and I've started a frog. I've also completed two other projects, but they are gifts so they are top secret for a bit (but I really like both of them).

The big news of this week is that there is a major yarn sale happening at a certain national retailer this week and on Friday I will be able to purchase skeins of Vanna's Choice for about $1.50 each. So, of course, I'm making a list of gift projects for birthdays and Christmas.

I'm also planning to buy a bunch to make scarves, hats and mittens to donate to a few charity organizations in our area for homeless adults and kids in need. So I'm looking for simple patterns that I can hook up quickly but that will be warm and cozy too. Here is my starting list...

Source: jennozkan.com via heather on Pinterest

Source: eatingoutloud.com via heather on Pinterest

Source: crochetme.com via heather on Pinterest

I have one more day before the sale to make final decisions so I really need your help! What are your favorite simple and quick patterns for cold weather gear (hats, scarves, mittens)?

Joining up with Yarn Along at Small Things & WIP Wednesday at Tami's Amis.

There's an app for that!

2011-11-08T06:00:00.139-06:00

Recently (not really), I posted about beginning a recipe book project (still not started) and asked for your advice. You guys had so many great suggestions, but I was most intrigued by my friend Angie's suggestion to check out an app called Pepperplate (and yet I still didn't do it). Then Angie's hubby Jamie (who is also my friend and super smart just like his wife) tweeted that he was heading to the grocery store using the shopping list function of Pepperplate...again intrigued (but still no actual checking out the app). And then, Pepperplate sent me a tweet asking if I liked the app...it was clearly time to get busy.

{image from Pepperplate.com}

I downloaded the free app and typed in a few recipes (easily done via the web or app). I asked (via twitter) if it is possible to print my recipes (for when I finally make that binder) and got a response right away that I could...yay! As I cooked for the family, I'd enter those recipes and I thought it was pretty cool to have such fancy versions of my recipes (most of my paper versions have not held up well as I tend to make a mess when I cook).

{screenshot from the Pepperplate app on my phone}

It was all good, but I wasn't sure how long Pepperplate and I were going to be dating. But then one day...I fell in love! It was a morning like any other...I had arrived at the grocery store with a 2-year-old, no list and not much food back at our house. I had to get the basics and I really needed to plan out some dinner options too. Usually this means I buy any meals that I can remember the ingredients too (you know exciting options like pizza, quesadillas and breakfast for dinner), but not this time. I had our favorite recipes in my phone (the app syncs between all your devices & your web account), so I menu-planned in the car. It's as simple as picking a recipe and clicking the Add to Shopping List button.

{screenshot from the Pepperplate app on my phone}

You have the option to scale the recipe and the quantities are adjusted on your shopping list (super helpful if you're cooking for a crowd).

{screenshot from the Pepperplate app on my phone}

Once you've added all your recipes, your list appears with ingredients listed by aisle. You can mark items you already have (I marked off the spices right away), add additional items (milk and Diet Coke), and easily edit in which aisles items are listed. You mark off items as you shop just as you would on a paper list, but this way your list actually gets smaller as you go.

{screenshot from the Pepperplate app on my phone}

That trip was awesome! Honestly, even if I don't use the shopping list option, it is incredible to have my recipes at hand. I don't have to try to keep all the ingredients and quantities in my head, because I can always look them up. I've also referenced my Pepperplate recipes in the kitchen and there is a multi-timer option I haven't taken advantage of yet, but I think it would be a wonderful addition to pulling together a big event like Thanksgiving dinner. I just need to find a spill-proof easel or hanger to make it safe for my ipad to join me in the kitchen!

This post contains my own opinion of (and love for) Pepperplate. It is not a sponsored post.

Pop Culture

2011-11-04T09:00:00.003-05:00

{image from So Bad So Good}

Being home with sick kids this week has left me needing to stretch my brain a bit. Given that my brain is full of pop culture randomness, I thought this design was a lot of fun! How many can you name?

Play Makeup Project

2011-11-03T06:00:00.150-05:00

A few years ago, back when EJ was still a baby, my SIL put play makeup on her daughter's Christmas list. I went to the store and bought the biggest set I could find (because I'm a spoiler Auntie like that) and then got in trouble because the "play makeup" set had actual makeup in it. The thing is, that was the only option. There wasn't any pretend makeup, only makeup packaged for kids, so when I saw this tutorial I knew I had to give it a try!

I made sets for my girls and a couple friends this summer and it was so simple. So this week, I decided to make a few more kits for my nieces (to maybe make up for my mistake) and I thought I'd share the process. They make a perfect gift and the holidays are on their way.

So, the first step is shopping! I bought cheapo makeup from Target and most of the items are just $1 so it is pretty cost-effective. Don't shop based on the color of the makeup as that won't matter, but make sure you like the makeup cases. For instance, the elf blush compacts have a mirror in the cover of the case, so that's a little bonus. Once you have picked out the makeup cases, you need to purchase nail polish to make the "faux makeup" (clever right?). The nail polish shrinks as it dries so you should plan about one bottle of nail polish for each powder or blush compact. The eye shadow uses a lot less but it will depend on the brand/style of compact. I also picked up a couple brushes for each set. Everything fits perfectly (in other words a really nice place to tuck everything away) in these cute personalized pencil cases too!

Once you're home, the first step is to remove all the actual makeup from the compact. I use a plastic fork (I'm so fancy) to break it up and get into the corners easily. Then I wash the remaining makeup out with dish soap and let the compacts dry overnight.

Next, you fill them back up with nail polish and let dry. A small trick I figured out was to use a magazine to prop the compacts on so they lie flat. Line the hinge up with the spine of the magazine whichever way works the best for that particular compact and line them up in a row so that you can move easily between them (less spills). If the nail polish isn't going to the edges/corners, you can use the brush to move it or tipping the compact slightly works as well.

After the nail polish has dried (in 8-12 hours it will be dry but tacky) it will shrink up quite a bit. You will need to "top off" each compact with nail polish (you may want to do this a third time, but remember that the makeup doesn't need to look full to the brim either). The best part of needing to add additional nail polish is that if you do accidentally spill the wrong color, you can fix it when you top off that section.

When you are happy with the compacts, you can choose some nail polish bottles that are almost empty (make sure you choose fun colors) and leave the tops off so they dry out as well. This takes a little longer (maybe 48 hours) than the compacts, but is worth it as it makes a fun addition to the set.

The makeup set is one of the girls' favorite toys. They just love it (and I'm certainly not setting the "primping" example or usually encouraging this type of gender-specific play). In fact, they could sit at the vanity (thanks again for this much-loved toy Leslie) for hours and play makeup and do nails...everyone's nails.

Work-in-Progress Wednesday 7

2011-11-02T06:00:00.069-05:00

Here is what happens when I'm stuck in the house for three days with a sick kid. I finish a couple big projects and then...I start trouble!

In poking around for a project to work on, I find this poncho pattern I had marked to make for Liv.

{photo courtesy of Lion Brand Yarn}

But I'm trapped so of course I can't go buy yarn for the project, so I start looking through my stash and come upon these...

I had purchased these because they were on sale (and also because it's pink & green yarn and I couldn't pass that up) and I didn't really have a project for them, but I started on a simple baby blanket pattern thinking I could gift it.

But then everyone I know having babies lately has had boys and I came up with a much better project for the one baby girl in my life, so I put it on the side (the pic shows about half of the width of the blanket). So, I decided to frog it!

And after the girls finished marveling/laughing at my huge mess, I got to work. There were several comments on the pattern that it ran small. I did a test of getting the beginning chain over Liv's head and agreed. So I doubled the pattern as one commenter suggested. I worked during naptime and when the girls got up, I did a test.

Yeah, that didn't work out so well, huh? There is a small addition of the collar at the end, but I'm doubtful that would be enough. So I frogged it again and tried a new approach with a beginning chain of 52 (the pattern chain is 36).

Success!!! Now the only issue is that I had thought I might make ponchos for the girls as Christmas gifts (different pattern for EJ), but both girls have already seen this start. Although I'm still not sure I like how this yarn is looking in this pattern. Maybe I'll try to find a different yarn (or combo of yarns) once I'm sprung from the house & can shop again. Has anyone used this type of yarn in a crochet pattern & liked how it turned out? My mom says it looks nicer in knit vs. crochet, so I'm not sure I should keep attempting using it in things.

The other things keeping me busy during lockdown are these...

I just finished Season 4 of West Wing and the last two episodes nearly gave me a heart attack. Loved them! I've read Kristin Chenoweth's book before, but am rereading due to my current interest in all things Aaron Sorkin. I can't decide if I should keep going on WW (given that Sorkin left the show for season 5) or rewatch my Sports Night DVDs first (because I love that show and it's been awhile). And last, but not least, I'm reading a kid's book called Hoot. It was a pre-read to make sure it was appropriate for Jack and I really like it, so I need to finish it up and pass it on!

Joining up with Yarn Along at Small Things & WIP Wednesday at Tami's Amis.

Reading List Summary, October

2011-11-01T06:00:00.111-05:00

Family List
Shaggy Dogs, Waggy Dogs (Patricia Hubbell)
Ten Little Caterpillars (Bill Martin, Jr.)
Farmyard Beat (Lindsey Craig)
Let's Count Goats! (Mem Fox)
The Big Wish (Carolyn Conahan)

Chew, Chew, Gulp! (Lauren Thompson)
Lettice, The Flower Girl (Mandy Stanley)
Ben Over Night (Sarah Ellis)
Goldilocks and the Three Bears (Caralyn Buehner)
Cat Secrets (Jef Czekaj)
Oliver's Vegetables (Vivan French)
Double Pink (Kate Feiffer)
Ebb & Flo and the Baby Seal (Jane Simmons)
Mahjong All Day Long (Ginnie Lo)
Enrico Starts School (Charlotte Middleton)
Mary Had a Little Lamb (Mary Ann Hoberman)
Halloween (David F. Marx)
The Velveteen Rabbit (Lou Fancher)
A Family From Guatemala (Julia Waterlow)
Jessica (Kevin Henkes)
Chinese New Year (Nancy Dickman)
Guatemala (Michael Dahl)
The Day Tiger Rose Said Goodbye (Jane Yolen)

The Princess and the Frog (Margaret Nash)

Jack's List
Brett Farve: Leader of the Pack (Bill Gutman)

Clementine (Sara Pennypacker)
Clementine and the Family Meeting (Sara Pennypacker)
See You Later, Gladiator (Jon Scieszka)
Oceans Alive: Clown Fish (Colleen Sexton)
Oceans Alive: Stingrays (Martha E.H. Rustad)

Choose Your Own Nightmare...The Halloween Party (E. A. M. Jakab)

Mom's List
Return to Sender (Kevin Henkes)

Olive's Ocean (Kevin Henkes)

Family Day 2011

2011-11-01T06:00:00.069-05:00

Four years ago today, we arrived home with our daughter EJ (the cute, smiley baby sitting next to her proud big bro). Every year since, on November 1st, we have our family day. It is a day to honor our awesome girl and to celebrate what a special and amazing family we have...our forever family (I am such a lucky Momma)!

This year we will not be together on family day, so we were planning an evening out for last night. Unfortunately, EJ has been pretty sick the past few days and so we had to delay our celebration for later this week. Yesterday, EJ was hanging out on her sick bed on the couch and I realized that I had another pic of her hanging out in Halloween jammies on this same day four years ago. She wasn't thrilled about smiling for a photo, but I am so glad she did. When did she grow up on me?

I love this girl to the moon and back! Happy Family Day EJ!

Trick or Treat 2011

2011-10-31T09:00:00.032-05:00

I know that I've already shared the kids costumes (girls and jack), but that was when it was warm outside. They look a little different with 5 layers underneath (especially poor Livie who looked super bulky) and it was very interesting to get elbow gloves over 2 long-sleeved shirts. Let's just say they were not pleased with having to take photos inside as they were boiling hot!

All ready to head out...

Ej and her buddy Abbie at the beginning of the night...

And EJ on the way home...I think she only trick-or-treated for about 30 minutes and then she rode in the wagon and felt terrible. Poor kiddo!

Luckily for her, Olivia really "got" trick-or-treating this year and had a blast doing it! She came home with the most candy of all three kids and is willing to share. She walked almost the entire time and had a great time. She was super fun to watch. She did need a lift the last couple blocks to home though...

Fav Foto Friday, Halloween

2011-10-28T08:30:00.001-05:00

This week's theme is Halloween, and while we don't trick-or-treat until tomorrow, there have been plenty of celebrations already. So here is a peek at the week in iphone photos...

"Costume Day" at dance class - we went with something festive, yet danceable

Matt and the kids came up with a plan to spray paint our pumpkins. The thought was that is would be somewhat easy, and also maybe deter some squirrels. It didn't quite work out as planned.

Jack had mismatch day at school. It's not as easy for boys to pull this off (jeans go with everything), but he did rock the two different shoes look.

The girls delayed nap and got all bundled up for the school parade (only a couple Livie breakdowns, so I consider it a win).

Agent P in the parade...along with his friends the shark, President Obama, and the witch. So much fun to see all the cool costumes at our school...we've got some creative parents!

Linking up with Nora - see more Halloween fun at Fav Foto Friday!

Calm at the end of the crazy

2011-10-27T06:00:00.052-05:00

Our Wednesdays are always kind of crazy, but yesterday seemed especially so. Busy...all of us overtired...dinner at 7pm (which is pretty late when you're 2). I expected a really rough bedtime, but they actually worked together to clean up their playroom and then I found them like this. So cute I had to go get my camera. Now to figure out how to make this happen every night!

In other news from the day:
-The Rolo McFlurry is no more. This is good news given that candy season is upon us!
-Finding only one glove in the lost & found bin is almost worse than having both gloves MIA.
-I am loving the sneak peek tracks on this upcoming album. Shocking, I know.
-Jack is not a fan of choose-your-own-adventure books for the same reason I never liked them. You don't get to read a lot of the book!
-In a last minute moment of sanity, I stopped myself from buying the exact same jacket I bought both of the girls this week. I mean, seriously what was I thinking? I blame sleep-deprivation...and the fact that they seem really warm and cozy.
-This makes me laugh every time I watch it...love Parks & Rec!

Work-in-Progress Wednesday 6

2011-10-26T06:00:00.035-05:00

This week my works-in-progress are all also secret gift projects. So basically I can't tell you a thing about what they will become, but I can show you these photos of them before you can even guess what they might become!

I'm excited to finish these 3 gifts up and I will share them again once they are all complete & in their new homes!

Joining up with Yarn Along at Small Things & WIP Wednesday at Tami's Amis.

Happy Birthday Mom!

2011-10-25T06:00:00.006-05:00

Happy Birthday Mom! We love you!

Help from a Friend

2011-10-24T07:00:00.019-05:00

As much as I'd like to believe I have things together, I know that I screw up at least once a day. Sometimes in small ways, but sometimes the screw ups are big and involve lots of tears (mine and the hurt kid's) and just feel terrible. And when those kind of screw-ups happen, it's pretty awesome to have a great friend who helps you make everything right again and puts smiles like these on your kiddo's face! Thank you Auntie Sandy for giving Jack his special day!

Dance Bag

2011-10-21T08:00:00.012-05:00

EJ's dance bag/backpack is finished (WIP here) and she is thrilled! It's a little big (I think if you are looking for a child-size bag making this pattern as written in worsted weight will probably come out perfect) but I adjusted the straps inside of the bag to fit her now but be adjustable in the future as she grows. Love that this was a quick project and that it was such a hit with EJ!

Agent P

2011-10-20T06:00:00.087-05:00

Determining what Jack wanted to be for Halloween this year was much more complicated than the actual construction of the costume (although for an easy costume, there was a lot of busy work). He finally decided on Agent P, AKA Perry the Platypus when he transforms into his secret agent persona (click here to see him in cartoon form). We did some searching and got the inspiration for Jack's costume here at Dabbled.

I love that it will be a warm costume, that it's easy to wear (kickball ready is important around here), and that it's cute in an 8-year-old boy kind of way (in other words, not super too cutesy). Best of all, he'll have a new set of sweats after Halloween as everything is detachable!

Supplies:
Sweat suit - Augusta Sportswear
Gloves - Greatlookz
Fedora - Target
Shoes - Saucony (luckily Jack picked orange school shoes this year)
Tail and bill - orange craft foam sheet
Eyes - ping pong balls

How to:
Fedora - I removed the crazy feathers from the side and the brown ribbon, then attached 1 1/2" black grosgrain ribbon with hot glue.

Eyes - Matt punctured ping pong balls with large safety pins and attached them to the front of the sweatshirt hood near Jack's eyes. I used Sharpie to make the black eyes on the ping pong balls.

Bill - I free-handed a bill shape on the craft foam sheet and cut it out with scissors. We tried a few different ways to attach the bill (using a foam visor, string) but ended up hot gluing small pieces of ribbon to the inside of the bill and then attaching them with small safety pins to the inside of the sweatshirt hood. There is no bottom portion to the bill which makes it easier for Jack to breathe.

Tail - Again, I free-handed a tail shape on the craft foam sheet and cut it out with scissors. Using a straight-edge and a black Sharpie, I made the criss-cross pattern on both sides. The tail is attached with large safety pins to the top of the sweatpants (which are hidden by the sweatshirt).

Work-in-Progress Wednesday 5

2011-10-19T06:00:00.023-05:00

This WIP will be a bag for EJ later today (fingers crossed). She started dance class again this Fall, but this time around she needs to take ballet and tap shoes each week. Between her shoes and things to keep Livie busy during class, it's getting a little crowded in my purse. I decided to add a dance bag to her Christmas list, so I started looking for a cute one and just didn't find one I liked (or thought she would like). I also realized that Christmas is a lot of weeks away when you're dealing with dance shoes and snow clothes.

So I decided to make one for in the meantime (although if it turns out, it might be for good). I'm using this pattern from Lion Brand Yarn but am using a much lighter yarn (worsted #4), so am adding some rows as I go to make the bag large enough for EJ.

And now back to work for me...class starts in a few hours and EJ is set on taking this bag with her!

Check out more WIPs at Tami's Amis and Ambassador Crochet.

Candy Corn Round-Up

2011-10-18T06:00:00.081-05:00

{made by me; pattern here; face inspiration here}

What is more Fall than candy corn? That waxy little candy just has to be eaten this time of year. I made the guys above (they are tiny...only about 3" tall) last week and I love the little faces!

I also made these treats with actual candy corn...salty, sweet, and needing to get them out of my house immediately! So good and more than a little addicting!

{photo and recipe courtesy of This Mommy Cooks}

I've seen so many cute candy corn crafts and treats that I thought I'd share just a few here in a littel candy corn round-up.

{image via Confessions of a Posh Mommy}

{image via My Baking Addiction}

{image via The Swell Life}

{image via Best Friends for Frosting}

{image via Woman's Day}

Pumpkin Farm

2011-10-17T06:00:00.025-05:00

What a difference a week makes weather-wise around here! But given that sundresses don't really scream pumpkin farm to me, I guess it worked out just fine. We tried out a new farm this year that is much smaller than our usual pumpkin patch. It was fun, but Jack and I were disappointed that we couldn't do our usual stock-up of banana bread. The kids loved the hay ride and the corn maze though. I'll wait to share their pumpkin decorating, but I think their creations will surprise you.

Pumpkins

2011-10-14T15:00:00.001-05:00

We're heading out to pick out our own pumpkins this weekend, but today I thought I'd share my finished crochet pumpkins (WIP here). These puff stitch pumpkins headed over to Jackie's house this week as an early birthday gift. As you can see the big pumpkin really did end up much bigger than the other two, but it is a cute, floppy one on it's own. If you'd like to give them a try, the pattern is here (and I'm happy to say that my hand has recovered from the puff stitch claw too!).

The other set came from a pattern I found on Planet June (the small version & then I improvised making that pattern bigger for the large pumpkin). They headed over to my Mom's house this morning as an early birthday gift too. Well, I did keep one of the little guys for our house. They were too cute to say good-bye to all of them!

The Princess and the Frog

2011-10-13T07:00:00.118-05:00

Around here, it tends to be freezing cold for our trick-or-treat each year, so we do our best with long underwear under, and hats & gloves over, our costumes. I tend to go the other route which is bundle up each kid in a costume that is also warm (last year is a good example of this...and they still all had long underwear hiding under their costumes). This year the girls really wanted "pretty" costumes. The asked to be a princess and a fairy. I came up with the idea for a princess and a frog, but promised a pretty frog!

{tiana and tomboy}

I knew they'd jump at the idea because they read Tiana's story every day (I wish I was exaggerating). But given that they're favorite line is when she says, "I'm green and I'm slimy!", they were fighting about who got to be the frog. It's pretty obvious that my girls and one part princess, one part tomboy.

This week we have been having incredibly warm temperatures, and the girls hadn't tried on their costumes yet. So I thought we could have a little fashion show and I could share the costumes the way they are intended to be (I promise I'll still share the bundled up versions later this month).

The princess:
Dress & headband - Rubie's Costume Co.
Gloves - So Sweet Boutique
Necklace & bracelets - dress-up closet stash
Wand - $1 section at Target
Shoes - Target (similar)

The frog:
Hat - Over the Rainbow Design
Tutu - I Love Lucy's Tutus
Leg warmers - made by mom
Shirt & leggings - Liv's closet
Shoes - Target

The shoes are their favorite part! I really love these costumes and I love the way the girls beamed yesterday when they got to play in them for awhile. The girls are happy that they got new fancy shoes for Fall and after trick-or-treat they will have some great new things to add to the dress-up collection. I know the long gloves will be played with every day.

But most of all, I love the magic!

Work-in-Progress Wednesday 4

2011-10-12T06:00:00.068-05:00

I'm feeling the Fall vibe this week (even though it's been pretty summer-like around here), so I decided to break out the cozy, chunky yarn and make this lovely wreath. The pattern & photo tutorial make it super easy to crochet. I finished the first one in about an hour...while the kids were awake. Yes, I said the first one. I decided this week that I needed to add a little something extra to two upcoming birthday gifts and thought this would be a fun addition (didn't hurt that I pinned it a few weeks ago and have been dying to make it).

Here is my current progress on wreath #2 (given that the photo above is more of a before and after shot)...

And the finished wreath #1 - Photo is darkened to protect the identity of the wreath from its future owner (definitely not just a bad photo on a cloudy day).

Check out more WIPs at Tami's Amis and Ambassador Crochet.

A New Addition

2011-10-10T11:00:00.054-05:00

I finished the bear (WIP progress here and the same project in a different colorway here) and I really like how he came together (even if my MIL did think he was a monkey). He was a present for a new little man in my life. Although, clearly, some other people are big fans too!

{my kiddos with my nephews Miles and Will}

In addition to becoming an Auntie again, I also became a Godmother to Will this weekend too (Matt is his Godfather). I'm a pretty lucky Auntie! I just wish they didn't live so far away.

I also took the opportunity to take a pic of my three kids after church. I don't know if it will ever be possible to wear sundresses in October in Minnesota again. It was a really nice weekend (just wish we could have spent more than 24 hours there...in fact, we weren't even there for 24 hours including sleeping time)!

Fav Foto Friday, Fall

2011-10-07T11:00:00.001-05:00

I didn't think I had anything to post for today's Fall theme, because we have been having Summer-like weather this week. It is pretty awesome! But on our walk home from volunteering this morning, Olivia decided to "fly" home and I had to snap a pic with my phone (even if she is wearing shorts).

Linking up with Nora - see more at Fav Foto Friday!

Reading List Summary, August

2011-10-07T06:00:00.048-05:00

Family List
The Voyage of Turtle Rex (Kurt Cyrus)
The Jellybeans and the Big Camp Kickoff (Laura Numeroff)

Bug Babies (Charlotte Guillain)
Watch Peas Grow (Therese Shea)
Animal 123: One to Ten and Back Again
Bug Food (Charlotte Guillain)
Tacky and the Emperor (Helen Lester)
Kitten's Summer (Eugenie Fernandes)
Sort It Out! (Barbara Mariconda)
Jump! (Steve Lavis)

The Little Little Girl with the Big Big Voice (Kristen Balouch)
Cinderella Penguin Or, The Little Glass Flipper (Janet Perlman)
Please, Puppy, Please (Spike Lee)
Melvin and the Boy (Lauren Castillo)
Hey Diddle Diddle (Eve Bunting)
Helicopters (Darlene Stille)

Soccer Hour (Carol Nevius)
How Do Our Eyes See? (Carol Ballard)
Eddie's Toolbox (Sarah Garland)
Piggy Pie Po (Audrey & Don Wood)
My Farm Friends (Wendell Minor)
Waddles (David McPhail)
Blimps (Darlene Stille)
Harriet's Had Enough (Elissa Haden Guest)
Bunny Cakes (Rosemary Wells)

Meeow and the Little Chairs (Sebastien Braun)
Freckle Juice (Judy Blume)
Hunter's Best Friend at School (Laura Malone Elliott)
First Day of School (Nicola Barber)

Jack's List

Babe & Me (Dan Gutman)
Snowboard Showdown (Matt Christopher)
National Geographic Kids Weird But True! 3: 300 Outrageous Facts

Summer According to Humphrey (Betty G. Birney)
The Buddy Files: The Case of the Library Monster (Dori Hillestad Butler)

Mom's List
The Year of Magical Thinking (Joan Didion)

Stories I Only Tell My Friends (Rob Lowe)

Join the Fight

2011-10-06T06:00:00.021-05:00

Poverty is the worst form of violence. -Mahatma Gandhi

Act now - ONE.org

Work-in-Progress Wednesday 3

2011-10-05T06:00:00.049-05:00

This week I've been making some pumpkins! I started making this pattern at a friend's request (she has a birthday this month & really wanted them). The pattern has three sizes and the smaller two were pretty quick to make, but then I started on the larger of the 3 and...well, it's barely started in the pic below.

Here it is a little while later, but still not even close to done. Let's just say, I won't be tackling puff stitch again anytime soon. I felt like a had a claw hand by the time I finished these, but they are all done.

I had more orange yarn after the puff stitch pumpkins were done, so I decided to move on to this pattern. Much easier on the wrist, but perhaps that is because the pattern is for the little guys shown below. I decided to wing it and enlarge the pattern to make the bigger pumpkin and was pleased with the results.

Next up...stems for all the pumpkins. But for that I need to wait for daylight so I can see the stitches in the dark brown yarn I'm planning to use. I also picked up some yarn for a mystery project (i.e. gift). Do you like these colors together?

Oh, and I have to stitch up another gift (the bear) asap as he is set to go to his new home this weekend. Guess I had better get to it!

Check out more WIPs at Tami's Amis and Ambassador Crochet.

Fingers Crossed...

2011-10-04T06:00:00.001-05:00

{image via pinterest}

Have you heard the news? It's looking more likely that the chicken dance will soon be back (Lindsay's is my favorite) and I can't wait! I wonder if Franklin will make an appearance?

{image via pinterest}

Fall Means Apples

2011-10-03T10:00:00.001-05:00

It is really starting to feel like Fall around here. Sweatshirts & hats at cold Saturday morning soccer games, rain boots, and of course, kids home sick with super sore throats. Boo! So before we head off to the doctor, I thought I'd share some yummy looking recipes perfect for enjoying all the awesome apples that accompany this colder weather. I find dreaming about Fall goodies helps me stay warm!

{Apple Cake via Taste of Home}

{Apple Butter via Simply Recipes}

{Caramel Apple Dip via Tasty Kitchen}

{Honeycrisp Apple Sangria via Nutmeg Nanny}

{Caramel Apple Sundae via Brand Eating/McDonald's}

Reading List Summary, September

2011-10-01T06:00:00.011-05:00

Family List
Monday Is One Day (Arthur A. Levine)

It's a Book (Lane Smith)
Shapes in Sports (Rebecca Rissman)
Ernest, the Moose Who Doesn't Fit (Catherine Rayner)
I Must Have Bobo! (Eileen Rosenthal)
It Could Still Be a Cat (Allan Fowler)
The Loud Book! (Deborah Underwood)
When Will I Read? (Miriam Cohen)
Noisy Nora (Rosemary Wells)
Librarian on the Roof! A True Story (M.G. King)

My Princess Boy (Cheryl Kilodavis)
Lisa in New York (Anne Gutman)
My Big Sister (Valorie Fisher)
That's How! (Christoph Niemann)

Lola at the Library (Anna McQuinn)

Jack's List
Junie B. Jones Has a Monster Under Her Bed (Barbara Park)
Junie B. Jones Is Not a Crook (Barbara Park)
Junie B. Jones Has a Peep in Her Pocket (Barbara Park)

Fantastic Mr. Fox (Roald Dahl)
Brett Favre (Terri Dougherty)
Brett Favre: Leader of the Pack (Mark Stewart)

Harriet the Spy (Louise Fitzhugh)
Clementine's Letter (Sara Pennypacker)

Mom's List

Between Light and Shadow: A Guatemalan Girl's Journey through Adoption (Jacob Wheeler)
Prairie Tale (Melissa Gilbert)

Fav Foto Friday, Fun Run

2011-09-30T10:00:00.024-05:00

Today is Jack annual school fundraiser, the Fun Run. He did really well and although he did not make his personal goal, we think he did the best job he could do (and that is really all we ask for). We are very proud of him (and hope he is proud of himself too)! It was really a lot of fun to watch Jack and his friends run their hearts out.

Unfortunately, I only had one cheerleader with me this year (last year I had 3), but she certainly was fun to watch. Now to warm the two of us up again.

Linking up with Nora - see more at Fav Foto Friday!

The King of Paper Plates

2011-09-29T06:00:00.038-05:00

I saw this awesome board while browsing Pinterest and immediately thought of Matt. I tease him all the time about the millions of things he has the kids do with paper plates. I feel like he has an idea up his sleeve anytime the kids ask to do a project with him.

Last month, he and the kids constructed these...

Paper Plate Crowns!

Couldn't be simpler right? And look at that smile. He seriously can make their day with a paper plate & the craft supplies. Totally impressive!

I really wish I had documented more of their creations on the blog, but apparently I'm no stranger to paper plate crafting either.
Valentine's Day Shakers
Rainbow Decorations
Sun Dials
Balloon Tennis

Work-in-Progress Wednesday 2

2011-09-28T06:00:00.080-05:00

I took the photo above thinking that it was as far as I was going to get on my project before posting this week. But you know how it goes, and once I took this pic, I thought I might as well finish the first half and maybe even get started on the second...

I really didn't like how it was turning out though, so I tore out what I had done on the second one and started with a new idea. According to the pattern, you work in rows and then slip stitch together when completed (right side), but I made the second one (left side) by working in the round while still working from different sides for each row so the look would be the same.

They look very different on the seam side, but you can't tell the difference on the other side.

These legwamers are part of Olivia's Halloween costume, so I needed her to try on my (not quite finished) new version. It was just before bedtime, so the lighting is not great, but the legwarmer fit perfectly (and I had to beg her to take it back off). After bedtime, I added the top ribbing (in green this time), wove all the ends in and whip-stitched both ribbed borders. I love how it came out! Now I just need to make a match for Liv's other leg before trick-or-treat.

Check out more WIPs at Tami's Amis and Ambassador Crochet.

Recipe Book Project

2011-09-27T06:33:00.000-05:00

{photo courtesy of Flamingo Toes}

Recently I realized that I desperately need to get my recipes organized into a binder of some sort. It's an overwhelming project that has been in the back of my mind since two Christmases ago when my friend received her recipes all organized and pretty as a gift from her sister. Super cool, right? But lately, I've realized that my system of 5000 sizes of mismatched papers/recipes in a big stack that I need to sort through each time I'm looking for a particular recipe (or even crazier, attempting to menu plan) just ain't working out!

{photo courtesy of rbt bags}

Obviously it will need to be easy to clean like these oilcloth covered binders or a plastic-covered binder with a cute patterned cover insert.

{photo courtesy of Prudent Baby}

It's the organization inside of the binder that scares me though...and I am the queen of organizing things darn it! I love the look of these tabs (I mean who doesn't love Dymotape labels?) and creating categories and picking the recipes to go behind each tab...yeah, that actually sounds kind of fun to me.

{photo courtesy of Prudent Baby}

Here's what scares me...typing in every single recipe. It scares me as much as it scares Matt to have to do a series of basic math problems without being able to create some macro to do it for him. We're talking tedious and mind-numbing stuff. At the very least, I need a basic template so that I don't have to worry about the formatting and can just enter the recipes quickly. Can anyone recommend something I could use? Please! Because without it, I may never finish (or start) this little project.

Birthday at the ballpark

2011-09-26T06:00:00.037-05:00

Jack turned 8 yesterday (although I teased him all day that he wouldn't actually be 8 until he woke up this morning given his 10:30pm arrival time), so we celebrated on Saturday with a family party and visiting a lot of great sites through Doors Open Milwaukee (loved this event). Jack's favorite part of the day though (well, besides his first visit to the Safe House) was touring Miller Park.

It was our second tour and just as fun as the first time. The last time we went Jack was 3 1/2 so for him this was a brand-new experience, but Matt & I still learned a lot about the park despite it being a repeat. Speaking of repeats, I remembered that we had taken a pic at the 400 sign in the outfield last time we visited, so I had Jack pose for the same pic. I knew it would be a little different because of the new scoreboard, but I didn't expect this result.

Not just a little different, right? So instead, I'll have to show you this photo of the three of us from the last tour to prove how much Jack has aged (please don't take note of how much Matt & I have aged, okay?).

One last great thing happened to Jack this weekend...he got this new toy (and he hasn't put it down for very long since).

Happy 8th Birthday Jack!

Fav Foto Friday, Upside Down

2011-09-23T06:00:00.026-05:00

I might have has to beg to get this photo of EJ to fit this week's theme. We have been busy peeps around here so other than our little world being a little upside down, not too much else is. Hope everyone has a great weekend! We've got a birthday to celebrate, so I know that our weekend will involve yummy food and cake...yay!

Linking up with Fav Foto Friday - check out more upside down fun there!

Kids in the Kitchen

2011-09-22T06:00:00.064-05:00

{So sorry for the awful phone pics of my tv on this post, but I needed visuals!}

This is a story of being in the right place at the right time. Towards the end of the summer we went to an event at our public library. You were supposed to register for it, I didn't know that so didn't...thankfully they fit us in. It was about healthy eating, and the kids loved the games and demos and making their own healthy treats.

At the end of the event we went up to thank the presenter and Jack mentioned that he liked watching her on tv. She asked if he liked to cook and of course he answered yes! Turns out that she was about to start taping the newest Kids in the Kitchen segments for our local public broadcasting station and a kid Jack's age had backed out.

I told you...right place at the right time...and of course, he was all in! So much so, that he got home and quickly emailed everyone in his address book "I'm going to be on TV!" And then his awesome Dad drove him home in the middle of this trip to do the taping. There was no way he was going to miss this cool opportunity!

{I promise that he had a blast despite his serious look here.}

Starting next week you can catch Jack's segment between the kids programs on the weekdays. The recipe (and a still photo of Jack in the studio) can be found here. We are thankful to Darlyne for including Jack and I can't wait to see his segment in between our favorite afternoon shows!

Work-in-Progress Wednesday 1

2011-09-21T05:30:00.003-05:00

I've been doing a lot of crocheting the last few weeks and have quite a few projects on my to do list, so I thought I would start linking up with WIP Wednesdays to keep myself on track. I think it's also fun on weeks like this one where the in-progress stage is kind of odd.

Any ideas what this will be?

I'll give you a hint (well really the answer)...it will look a lot like this in a different colorway. I will definitely post when it's all finished and looks like something.

Check out more WIPs at Tami's Amis and Ambassador Crochet.

Good Reads

2011-09-20T06:15:00.015-05:00

Are you on GoodReads? I saw it described as a social network for book lovers/readers and thought that was kind of perfect. I'm kind of loving it as a way to not only keep track of what I'm reading but what I should be reading next (based on my friends reviews & to read lists). Love it!

If you are on, please add me as a friend (my profile is here) so I can check out what you're reading too!

Reading List Summary, July

2011-09-20T06:00:00.001-05:00

Family List
Firehouse (Mark Teague)
Miss Nelson Has A Field Day (James Marshall)

"I'm not sleepy!" (Jonathan Allen)
Henry in Love (Peter McCarty)
Miles To Go (Jamie Harper)
Mad at Mommy (Komako Sakai)
My Best Friend is as Sharp as a Pencil (Hanoch Piven)

I don't want a cool cat! (Emma Dodd)
Library Mouse: A World to Explore (Daniel Kirk)
Arthur's TV Trouble (Marc Brown)
I Love The Alphabet (Dar Hosta)
Starfish (Lloyd Douglas)
Your Senses (Helen Frost)
The Wonder of a Waterfall (Allan Fowler)
Colorado (Cynthia Walker)
South America (Allan Fowler)

For The Love of Soccer (Pele)
Ready, Steady, Grow! (Sophie Piper)
Ocean Counting: Odd Numbers (Jerry Pallotta)
The Hospital (Daphne Butler)
Going to the Hospital (Fred Rogers)
Thoughts and Feelings: Afraid (Susan Riley)
When I Feel Scared (Cornelia Maude Spelman)
One Little Ladybug (Tami Salzano)

Pete the Cat, I Love My White Shoes (Eric Litwin)
Interrupting Chicken (David Ezra Stein)
Captain Duck (Jez Alborough)
Job Site (Nathan Clement)
The Dot (Peter H. Reynolds)
Showdown at the Food Pyramid (Rex Baron)
So Close (Natalia Colombo)
Rain Brings Frogs: A Little Book of Hope (Maryann Cocca-Leffler)
The Wonder of a Waterfall (Allan Fowler)
Meeow and the Pots and Pans (Sebastien Braun)
Are You Awake? (Sophie Blackall)
A Penguin's World (Caroline Arnold)

The Pink Refrigerator (Tim Egan)
Dear Tyrannosaurus Rex (Lisa McClatchy)

Jack's List
Clementine, Friend of the Week (Sara Pennypacker)

Shoeless Joe & Me (Dan Gutman)
Amazing Magic Tricks: Master Level (Norm Barnhart)

Green Bay Packers (Aaron Frisch)
Crystals (Richard Spilsbury)
State Flags (Sue R. Brandt)
The Boxcar Children #104: The Game Store Mystery (Gertrude Chandler Warner)

Mom's List
Sport (Mick Cochrane)
All That Is Bitter & Sweet (Ashley Judd)

The Year We Left Home (Jean Thompson)
Bossypants (Tina Fey)

A Long Walk To Water (Linda Sue Park)

In the Blink of An Eye...

2011-09-19T06:00:00.037-05:00

This weekend we celebrated the birthdays of 3 very special boys! Nick (who is now 8), Jack (who will be 8 much to soon, or next weekend if you aren't dramatic like his mom), and Nathan (who will turn 14 early next month) are all growing up much too fast. These boys were the first three grandchildren and Nathan was all alone for 6 years (he was 8 months old at our wedding & is our Godchild)...it's really hard to watch him growing up. Then add in my own first baby and his cousin getting older...it's not pretty!

If you don't mind, I'm going to go back and freeze time (can you tell which baby is which?)...

I guess they are pretty cute grown-up too. Happy Birthday boys!

Fav Foto Friday, Fast

2011-09-16T06:00:00.018-05:00

I took my camera to soccer practice this week to capture my oldest running his heart out on the field. Instead, I found that the littlest one fit the theme just a little more this week. Between her bravery to try the tallest slide (and the rock climbing wall and whatever else she sees someone else try) and her constant running (little legs pumping, arms flailing) to catch up to her siblings, this girl is the epitome of FAST (at least in her own mind)!

Linking up with Nora - see more fast action at Fav Foto Friday!

What Crazy Project Is Going on Here?

2011-09-15T06:00:00.073-05:00

That is what Matt said when he arrived home last night...and by then it was just cabinet doors open & things rearranged (school night for Matt). Although, I think in the last 20 years, he has gotten very used to my crazy projects. You see last week, I was cleaning the house and I got done and realized how gross our house had gotten this summer. So this week, I set to "deep cleaning" the dining room (I'm hoping to do a room per week). Lots of unpacking, cleaning, putting stuff in the donation pile, and reorganizing has been done this week. Yesterday I spent the entire day (when not carting kids about) working on the glass cabinets (3 small like in the pic above & 2 tall on the opposite wall). This part of the project added a degree of difficulty...washing dishes! Ugh, how I hate that job! It was an exhausting day and there was a point where I wondered why I am such a nut, but I am thrilled with the reorganization and I love knowing that the cabinets, as well as the things inside them, are all clean.

What I do not love is knowing what I am NOT doing while I'm cleaning. For one, I need to get a family get-together planned for this weekend (cleaning the entire house, menu planning, errands, etc. are on the agenda for today). Also, I have lost any "me time" I have in a day. This week has also marked my return to exercising (way overdue), so any free time I have has been spent on a treadmill or yoga mat. Good for me, but not as fun as adding to this work-in-progress (although I did spend some time on it while watching Empire with Jack this weekend)...

And I would really love to keep watching my newest show obsession or read one of my many library books. Maybe I can smuggle a book to the soccer fields this weekend?

I guess the best part of the Fall cleaning obsession is that by the time it gets unbearable to be outside, your house is perfect to snuggle up in and just hang out doing your favorite things. If only I have enough time to finish that blanket!

Pete the Cat

2011-09-14T06:00:00.045-05:00

We read first read Pete the Cat in July. It was an instant hit...one of those books that the kids fight with you about when it's time to return it to the library. That being said, I had no idea that Pete was a phenomena outside our house too...he's everywhere!

Recently Julie at Happy Home Fairy posted this video and we have watched it too many times to count (even more than their previous favorite). He walks along singing his song all the time in this office.

Be sure to check out Julie's post if you are a fan of Pete or if you liked the video. She has lots of great Pete-themed activities and games you might enjoy.

I just saw that there is a new book about Pete going to school. I can't wait to check it out, because if I have to read a book about cats (and trust me, we read them all), it may as well be about a positive cat like Pete.