Melancholy Smile

Style For Less

2012-01-27T03:30:00.000-07:00

As the weekend approaches, I can't help having my head turned by all the fabulous sales out there. If I were at liberty to go shopping, this is what I'd be spending {and saving!} money on:

The Dotline Boatneck T is just $29 at Anthropologie. The brass geometric elements of the necklace would set it off nicely {$39 at Madewell}. Add a pop of color with green denim jeans, a bit of polish with leopard print ballet flats {a steal at $12!} and finish it off with a messy bun and some bright lipstick. Voila! A sassy outfit for less than the price of a pair of jeans.

Happy Weekend, all!

Something New

2012-01-20T10:34:00.000-07:00

So often, I dress to feel thin. I avoid certain styles, hair do's, trends, all because I don't feel 'thin enough' to pull them off. When I'm depressed, my thoughts become consumed with how much happier I'd be if I could just lose 10, 20, a million pounds. It seems as though it's my mind's default for avoiding any other emotion or problem I may be facing in life.

I'm sick of it.

This year, I vow to live in that uncomfortable space where excitement and uncertainty dwell. I want to drown out that voice that tells me to put off my life until I achieve some unattainable ideal. I want to be joyful in my own skin instead of wishing I could slough it off like the grime of a filthy cell I'm caged within.

And I'm starting today.

I'm putting my hair up, though I'm certain it leaves me entirely too exposed {with my pointy nose and turkey waddle.} I'm wearing skinny jeans even though the mirror reflects only my hips and thighs. I'm sweeping on bright lipstick and stepping out of the house scared but exhilarated-- because today feels like the beginning of something new.

A more contented me.

Mt. Alton

2012-01-18T08:54:00.003-07:00

In the hours before Grandpa Alton died, talking became an effort. He would nod or shake his head in reply to questions, but forming words required too much exertion. However, when he was asked, "Can I get you anything?" he managed a last request: ice cream. He was tenderly spooned a bowlful. Shortly afterwards, he looked into the distance, waved at someone we could not see, and took his last breath.

The fact that his final words were 'ice cream' struck us all as entirely fitting. Fosters are devout when it comes to their love for this particular desert. For years, they've had a tradition of making homemade ice cream every Sunday afternoon; they've frequented the local Nielsens so often that they are on first-name basis with the owners; and when it comes to flavor, texture and consistency, they can be opinionated snobs. :)

I believe Thury was the one to suggest that if we truly wished to honor Grandpa, we'd buy ice cream instead of flowers for the funeral. He and Lance took that idea and ran with it, stopping at the grocery store and buying as many flavors as they could find. We then gathered after the viewing for the largest ice cream sundae anyone had ever seen!

It was a lighthearted, fond way of saying goodbye. And in true Foster fashion, the brothers are all practicing what their final words will be: "Shrimp!" "Steak!" "Peanut Butter!" "Lasagna!"

I love being a part of this family, and am proud of the legacy that Grandpa Alton has left for us. :)

Tasty Clothes

2012-01-16T13:36:00.000-07:00

Last week was a doozy. We had Grandpa's funeral {which was emotional and wonderful all at the same time}, a trip to urgent care for Baby R to get stitches {poor boy!} and E turned 7 years old, all as I balanced on the precipice of depression. While I do have thoughts and personal struggles I want to record at some point, for now I feel that some lightness is in order. Thus, I start the week off talking about clothes. :)

This is my new favorite outfit. Not only because I finally {!!} fit into the pencil skirt, but because the blush colored silk of the blouse paired with the soft peacock blue of the cardigan makes my mouth water. I could eat that color combination. Add a subtle grid pattern from the pencil skirt, some chain and stone texture from the necklace, and that my friends, is an outfit I could gorge myself on.

That delicious necklace is from Target, which is where I {and most everyone else, it seems} finds the best, inexpensive little luxuries. As you've likely heard, the Jason Wu for Target collection is set to release Feb 5th, and I've already composed a little lust list...

I'm crossing my fingers that it won't be crazytown like when Missoni released their Target collection, especially since I could really use a clearance price on some of those dresses.... A girl can dream, right?

p.s. Thanks for all of your kind words on my last post. You're the best. :) I'm feeling a bit better and hope to get back to posting regularly this week.

My body is a cage.

2012-01-09T10:45:00.001-07:00

This weekend I fell,

slow motion,

into a fog of depression the likes of which I haven't faced in a while.

Each morning I'd wake to a day that stretched endlessly in front of me, void of anything interesting or meaningful,

like all the light had been sucked from the world.

After a brief search for distractions-- something to read, something to watch, something to think about-- I'd inevitably end up back in bed, buried beneath the covers

sinking in to oblivion

sleeping until my head and my body both ached.

J was unable to rouse me, try as he might to push me out the door.

"Go running," he'd plead. "You'll feel better."

but I couldn't seem to get my limbs to cooperate.

Or my mind to quiet

its endless chant,

"Useless, useless, useless."

{At times like these, my bed has a gravitational force

far greater than my willpower.}

I never seem to know what triggers it.

Likewise, when I hit bottom and am finally able to look up,

and squint at the watery sun,

I am equally unable to vocalize what has ended it.

but I'm relieved.

Now I run {though my legs feel like they move through molasses} and pray

that the depression stays away. That this really is

the end.

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Today, I will...

2012-01-05T10:46:00.000-07:00

...party like it's my birthday. Because it is. :) Happy Birthday to meeeeee!

PS- Want to see another amazing New Year's Bash? Check this out.

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Goodbye, Grandpa Alton

2012-01-04T22:03:00.001-07:00

Great-Grandpa Alton died Monday night, just a month shy of his 95th birthday. Despite our efforts to prepare the kids for this eventuality {he had been bed ridden and in declining health over the last 9 months} Little Miss C took the news pretty hard. She cried for an hour as we talked about what we believe happens after death, then cried more after we put her to bed.

She's such a sensitive girl, I really dread having to take her to the funeral. And I have to. I always begrudged my mother for not allowing me to attend my Grandma's funeral {I was only four!} but now I'm absolutely flummoxed about how to handle this with Little Miss C. Do I let her go to the viewing? Does she need that for closure? Does E? Aren't they too young?

I was sixteen when I attended my Grandpa's funeral, and I fell apart when I saw him in the casket.

I'm thinking they can go to the funeral, but not the viewing. They may hold a grudge against me, but I think they'll understand someday when faced with the same situation. Life is nice and cyclical that way. :)

In the meantime, we miss Grandpa Alton and treasure the many hand-fashioned heirlooms he left us-- especially the rocking horse.

Mad Men Party

2012-01-02T16:09:00.001-07:00

In the course of a single month, friends, neighbors and strangers alike filled our cupboards, stockings and hearts. Full of gratitude and love {but unable to thank most who helped anonymously} I channeled all my joy into throwing a Mad Men New Year's Party.

I started by making and delivering invitations {here}, then stocked up our mocktail bar. I made a menu of optional drinks {I found a lot of them here} and purchased a martini shaker, which I was ridiculously pleased with. :)

Next: plenty of juices, sodas, mixers, mineral water and garnishes so people could experiment and create their own. Luckily, we already had an inexplicably large selection of martini, wine, highball and lowball glasses-- and if I'd thought about it more, I could have been authentically Mad Men and had Little Miss C serving us drinks all night. {kidding!!}

J and I bought a few LIFE magazines from the 1960's, and tore out most of the ads to use as decorations {even the bathroom was full of them!}. I had fun putting little references to Mad Men all over the place, like Don Draper's "Why I'm Quitting Tobacco" letter and a bunch of Lucky Strike ads.

Even though we were the only couple amid our group of friends that actually watches the show {we're evil, I know}, they all came decked out and rocked 1960's fashion. I was very impressed, especially with the elaborate hairstyles! We have the most awesome friends.

For the centerpiece: I painted one of those 3D puzzles of the Empire State Building, and hung glittery stars and tinsel everywhere. We had J's parents' high school yearbooks to flip through and J put together an amazing playlist of both music and youtube clips {vintage ads, super 8 films, and oddities} that set the mood perfectly. {Also, I wanted to pass out these bubble gum cigarettes as party favors, but it cost too much for last minute shipping. Drat!}

My mom was a little girl in the 60's and remembers her parents throwing cocktail parties {as well as finishing off their drinks when they weren't looking...} I asked what I should serve and she said, "Definitely fudge and Chex Mix!" Grandma used to make fudge in a round pan, then let mom and her sister eat the scraps after she'd cut out the squares.

I used this 3 minute fudge recipe and added walnuts and marshmallows to half the batch. Despite how easy it was to make, it was very good. We also had deviled eggs, mini toast with sour cream, chives and caviar {a surprise hit! Everyone ate it-- even the pregnant ladies!} and meatballs marinated in apple butter. Oh, and jello in a jello mold, of course!!

Once everyone had a drink in hand and had talked a while, we took a short quiz on ad slogans from the 1960's and tried to match them up with the products they sold. {I found the quiz here} Our winner walked away the proud owner of Mad Men paper dolls:

After a quick outfit change {baby R got sick... My dress is off to the dry cleaner}, we spent the rest of the night playing cards, gawking at the baffling ads J found {Fred Flintstone smoking Winston cigarettes!} and playing with sparklers.

We didn't go to bed until 3 a.m. but it was well worth it!

Thanks to all who came-- it was so fun, I only wish I'd thrown a soiree sooner! {Next up: an Oscar Night Party?}

Happy New Year everyone!

Mad Men Theme

2011-12-28T11:59:00.003-07:00

I'm busy preparing for our Mad Men New Year's Party and this song has been stuck in my head all day. {It's awesome!!}

We found a martini shaker and some lowball glasses at out favorite antique store last night on our date, then borrowed a few 'props' from J's parents. They were Seniors in High School back in 1962, so you can imagine the goodies we dug up...

Can you believe it's Wednesday? This week has felt like a perpetual Saturday! Not that I'm complaining. ;) Hope your week has been equally relaxing!

Happy Christmas!

2011-12-25T10:50:00.001-07:00

Is it too soon to declare this the best Christmas ever? J and I both woke at 6 a.m., giddy and unable to sleep. We drank hot cocoa and waited for the kids to wake up, silly grins plastered across our faces.

Posting will be spotty this week, but you can catch me on Instagram under the name melancholysmile. As you can see, I'm a bit addicted...

We're off to church, then Grandma's house for a ham dinner and board games. This year, having Christmas land on a Sunday feels particularly meaningful and appropriate. We have so much to be grateful for.

Happy Christmas to you and yours! Hope it's merry and bright. :)

Done!

2011-12-23T16:34:00.001-07:00

It's been a crazy couple of days, but I finished the play stove {it's rough-- we really could have used a table saw, but made do with what we had. It ended up costing us less than $20!}, the teepee for the boys {photos unfortunately unavailable until after Christmas} and Little Miss C's paper doll Nutcracker Ballet.

Now the stockings are hung, lights are up, the house is filled with the smell of baking and I'm ready to call it a weekend. :)

Thank you again to all of you Santas out there. I stayed up 'til midnight wrapping presents that did not come from J or I. Some of you I know, but many of you I do not, and I am staggered by your generosity! We've kept the many letters of encouragement and selfless love that have been sent, and plan to share them with the children on Christmas morning-- to me they are the most valuable thing we've been given this year.

Thank you for reading and thank you for your friendship! Merry Christmas to all, and to all a goodnight. :)

Counting Down

2011-12-21T13:26:00.001-07:00

Just a few days left! Is anyone else in a frenzy of crafting, wrapping and receiving amazing surprises in the mail? {It's kind of magical, really!} We finished up the children's gifts for their cousins and now they're pretty packages all tied up with strings.

We used plain rolls of craft paper from Ikea and accented it with washi tape, baker's twine, these free printable gift tags and a few mini clothespins I had in my stash. It was fun trying to use what we had, and discovering that it could all look quite nice.

I've also been making and delivering invitations to our New Year's Party. J says we're too broke to be hosting anything, but I think we've been so blessed, we need to spread the joy a bit. Besides, I make a resolution every single year that I'm going to be more social and host something, but I never do. This may be checking it off my list at the very last minute, but I'm determined {and excited} to accomplish it this year!

We're going Mad Men themed-- skinny ties, cocktail dresses, vintage games, retro hors d'oeuvres, mocktails-- I figure if I can dress a set for less than $10, I can throw a party for at twice that. I made the invites myself using my meager photoshop skills. {If I'd thought ahead a bit more, I'd have purchased these from Etsy}. I love how they turned out, especially the typeface silhouettes. :)

Now, back to teepee making!

Ducking In...

2011-12-19T21:06:00.003-07:00

Is it really only 6 days 'til Christmas? This month is certainly whipping by!

I'll be back soon with a real post, but I've been meaning to share this video with you for ages-- it was made the same year we filmed our first Christmas video and we watch it annually. It still cracks me up. :)

Enjoy!

Merry, Merry

2011-12-16T13:53:00.001-07:00

I'm exhausted.

I've been staying up every night making gifts, which I find simultaneously wonderful and unfortunately all-consuming. My fingers are cramped, my manicure is paint spattered, and my kitchen is a wreck as dishes go ignored. {and don't even ask when it was that I last showered!}

I was lamenting to J this week that I only seem to be able to do two things well per day and everything else falls by the wayside: If I'm creating and cooking, then you can bet I haven't cleaned the house or worked out. Alternately, if I go for a great run and my living room is spotless, I'm probably behind on gift-making and dinner time is sure to find me unprepared!

On Wednesday, I worked feverishly while the Little Miss and E were at school. I barely managed to brush on the finishing touches of paint to E's Angry Birds game before dashing out the door to get to their Christmas performance. I walked in just as the 6th grade was finishing their number-- somehow, I though the program started at 3:15 when it actually began an hour earlier!! I'd missed seeing Little Miss C on the hand chimes and E dancing around with a candy cane singing his Santa song. Both kids were crying when I found them, and I felt like the worst mother EVER.

I wish arriving on time had been one of the two things I did well that day. :(

This weekend, I'm dropping Little Miss C off at her Grandma's for a cousins' sleepover and real gingerbread house making. {she's thrilled!} J's hoping to finally get the Christmas lights up outside {we've been rained out for days!} while I'll be cutting out some teeny-tiny paper dolls, sewing a teepee, and {hopefully!} showering.

Happy weekend, all!

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Run, run, Rudolph!

2011-12-14T07:10:00.000-07:00

I ran the 12K's of Christmas race on Saturday and had such a great time! It was HUGE. So many people, most dressed up as Santa or Christmas trees or elves. There were carolers at every mile and the entire course smelled like kettle corn. :) While I felt like I felt like I really pushed myself, I still finished with a slower time than I'd hoped for {1:27:59}. I think after the half marathon {London's Run in January}, I'm going to start working on speed. I've run enough races now that I can try and beat my own time in each one.

In other news,Nicole featured our video on Making It Lovely! I'm a bit star struck:

Also, check out this awesome Christmas video made by the Slade Family {they're friends of J's brother}. I'm glad they made it, because I'd never have been able to! I hate water on my face. :)

Full

2011-12-12T11:31:00.001-07:00

You know that scene in It's a Wonderful Life where all the townspeople come together to save George from the brink of destruction? {Who doesn't?} That's what it feels like around here!

Just a week ago, I was baking bread every day just so we'd have something to eat. This is what our refrigerator looked like:

Today, it looks like this:

We've had help pour in from all directions. We've been invited over to dinner {then handed all the leftovers!}, given bags of groceries from a neighbor's personal food storage, received packages in the mail and anonymous donations, and even had a whole ham {from The Pork Shop, ohmygoodness it is sooo good} delivered to our door.

It has been a feast, both literally and spiritually.

J commented last night, "The interesting thing about being on the receiving end is how much I feel the spirit-- How much I feel loved and watched over rather than awkward or embarrassed."

For him, this is an entirely new experience. Never in our marriage has our situation been this precarious; and while I grew up in a household that was no stranger to dire financial straits, it's been completely different experiencing it from an adult perspective. I expected to feel that familiar fear. Instead, I feel comforted.

I've cried several times this past week, awed at the generosity of friends and strangers, but even more awed at the hand of the Lord in our life. I thought I knew that security in this life is an illusion-- that we rely on the Lord for everything. But having it become so obvious has been both touching and eye opening for me.

My heart is full, my refrigerator is full, and soon my children's stockings will be full. I cannot send up enough prayers of thanks for all of you!

God bless you, every one.

Santa's Workshop

2011-12-09T11:30:00.001-07:00

We're in full Create-Mode around here, busily sewing, painting and glittering as we make gifts for friends and family.

E is so excited to be making an Angry Birds game for one of his cousins. I love to see him put so much effort into it even though he's DYING to keep it for himself. {Little does he know that he'll be getting one as well!}

Meanwhile, making gifts for the kids is quite challenging when they're constantly underfoot and annoyingly inquisitive. We've made great progress on the play kitchen...

It's actually starting to look like something now that I've covered it in primer! You can hardly tell it's made out of scraps from our garage. :) Now to figure out how to sew a teepee without the boys stumbling upon it...

Our weekend is busy-- we have several holiday parties and I'll be running in the 12k's of Christmas race on Saturday {luckily, I registered for all my races months ago, back when we had money!}.

Happy weekend, all!

Happy Birthday!

2011-12-08T08:49:00.001-07:00

Dear hAha-

Hope you have a swingin' good time on your birthday! May the coming year bring you joy {and killer heels!}

Much love-

Me

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Dream

2011-12-07T14:39:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was my dad's birthday. I thought about him as I went running on a dirt road that cut through nearby equestrian properties and passed a row of ash trees with leaves that are only now beginning to turn yellow and gold. The air was crisp and carried the scent of dry leaves, damp earth and distant storms... It was much like a day more than a year ago, when the sun was low, the shadows long, and my surroundings so unlike the typical that it triggered a memory deep inside of a dream I'd had.

In the dream, I was shopping at a farmers market. As I filled a basket with items for a my holiday dinner, I turned the corner and found my dad standing right in front of me. Without saying a word, I knew he'd built his plane and flew in to take me home. I was so surprised, I let out an involuntary exclamation before throwing my arms around his neck, bursting into tears and waking up.

As I ran that day, the memory came back to me so vividly that I was overwhelmed with longing for my dad. I wanted to be home with my parents. I wanted the life I'd pictured when I was young-- that I'd grow up, get married, and live next door to them. Mom and I would bake together every holiday. My dad would let my kids work alongside him, teaching and teasing the whole time. We'd be close and comfortable and happy.

Instead, I've spent nearly 13 years living hundreds of miles away. While I love our life, and feel we've been blessed to have opportunities to cross paths often, I've never given up that longing. "Living in one another's pocket" as my mom likes to say.

And now it may happen! As of last night, the plan is to have my parents move in with us shortly after Christmas while they get their bearings, save some money and look for a place {hopefully within biking distance}. While combining our resources stands to benefit us all, what I'm really looking forward to is daily walks with my mom, casually trading books with my dad, and all the tiny interactions that only happen when one lives close together. I'm so happy, I could cry!

It's a Christmas miracle. :)

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Thanks!

2011-12-06T12:19:00.001-07:00

Many thanks to Gabby at Design Mom for featuring our Christmas video again this year...

... as well as Ohdeedoh, who had such lovely things to say about our work!

And if you can't get enough of the Foster family, you can watch an interview we had with a local news show yesterday. {Little Miss C thinks she's famous, E acts like he's too cool to care, and L says "I on tv like The Wonder Pets?!"}

Thanks for your support!

Behind the Scenes

2011-12-05T22:15:00.001-07:00

We first started making these Christmas videos back when Jared was working for a local tv show. He put in long hours and used state of the art equipment, but became frustrated by how little creativity was valued in that particular corporate world. Craving artistic expression, we decided to collaborate and allow his talents to benefit our own family.

Ever since then, our main goal has been to make the family video a tradition that the children look back on with fondness. We want it to be fun, not a chore. We ask them for ideas, have them help set up {they helped string nearly all of those cotton balls} and most of all, let the camera roll to capture the spontaneous moments that inevitably end up better than our planned shots.

Using our living room as a studio helps greatly with this. When the kids are fed, rested and happy, we let the cameras roll. The minute they become bored or cranky, they're allowed to take a break for a while {like eating a snack at the kitchen table shoved into a corner of the room!}

They've actually become quite the helpers! They toss snow, move lights, make the baby smile, run the music or push 'record' on the camera.

Much of the time, our scenes are actually shot amid typical family chaos. In the above photo, Jared's doing a lib-dub while the baby clings to his feet and the other children shout and laugh over an episode of Wizards of Waverly place. {There's a reason our videos don't feature live audio!}

Jared is king of the camera, but I love the art direction. I couldn't wait to set a wintery scene with cotton balls and twinkle lights. We used 800 cotton balls strung on thread {though I'm sure fishing line would have worked as well} then taped to the ceiling. I was up until 1:30 a.m. stringing and taping. They were EXTREMELY easy to tangle, and we were terrified that the baby would run through the whole set and tear it down before we'd even begun to film!

We used a large canvas drop cloth from Home Depot {originally intended for the play teepee I'm making for Christmas} as the backdrop, then dug out every set of twinkle lights we had and stapled them to the ceiling. One or two strands placed right in front of the camera gave it a nice bokeh.

It took one day to set up, two days to film, and three days to edit. While most people were out shopping on Black Friday, we were occupied with costume changes and lighting. I know it's not for everyone, but for our family, it's the perfect tradition and it makes me happy to know that so many love the results.

PS While the cost of hiring Jared to make a video like this {several thousands of dollars} would be cost-prohibitive for most families, he IS a freelance videographer for hire. If your corporation or small business would like a creative video for television or internet, you can contact him at www.jaredfosterfilms.com

Heartwarming

2011-12-02T10:37:00.001-07:00

Since talking about our recent financial... difficulties? Crisis? Whatever one calls it when the bank account is overdrawn, bills are piling up and work is scarce--

{typical, is what I call it judging by how many people are facing the same struggles right now.}

-- we've experienced an outpouring of love and encouragement. One reader even offered to send money so I could buy apples to make Thanksgiving pies {but then I found that stash of quarters}!

Earlier this week, a surprise arrived in the mail from a dear friend:

Isn't that clever? And moving? And seriously impressive? {Just check out those mad origami skills!} It totally made my day.

I get teary-eyed thinking about how wonderful people are, especially considering that those who reach out to us are, by no means, immune to hardship themselves.

Thank you! I wish I could reach thru the computer and give all of you a hug. {and trust me-- I'm not a hugger, so that's saying a lot. }

PS- We put up the tree this week and Baby R can't keep his hands off of it. Luckily, our ornaments consist of spray-painted pine cones, which he can't break. He can, however, throw them like baseballs at unsuspecting passer-bys. :)

Let the Season Begin!!

2011-12-01T07:12:00.001-07:00

Happy December 1st! To kick off the holiday season, I offer you this: the eagerly anticipated 4th annual Foster Family Christmas Video!

Once again, in lieu of Christmas cards, we spent Thanksgiving weekend creating a family video 'greeting' instead. It's become one of our favorite traditions. In fact, I'm not sure it would feel like Christmas if we didn't spend at least one day vacuuming fake snow out of the rug! Check in next week for some behind-the-scenes photos. ;)

Merry Christmas!

{For past years see the sidebar, or click here for 2008, 2009, 2010 and a Tetris Christmas}

Handmade Gifts Under $5

2011-11-29T10:24:00.001-07:00

It's no secret that money is tight-- but I firmly believe that finances do not have the power to ruin Christmas! For the last several months, I've been gathering clever, yet inexpensive gift ideas. Not only will they go under our own tree this year, but once again, the children will help make a few handmade presents for the cousin gift-exchange! All of these can be made for under $5, using items you probably already have around the house:

No.1 Wooden Disk Memory Game; No.2 Paper Mache Puppets; No.3 Box of Super-heros {or princesses}; No.4 Play Forest; No.5 Button Monogram

No.6 Baked Marble Necklaces; No.7 Bean Bag Toss; No.8 Freezer Paper Stencil Shirt; No.9 Angry Birds Bowling

Remember that often, the key to keeping costs down is to select something you already have supplies for, or choose an idea or two and make it in bulk {for neighbors, cousins, friends, etc}. Happy creating!

For past Christmas ideas, see A Gift Guide: Little Luxuries, A Gift Guide: Handmade Gifts, A Gift Guide: Zero Cost, and A Gift Guide: For the Kids.

Thanksgiving Weekend

2011-11-28T09:05:00.001-07:00

Good morning! Did you have a good Thanksgiving? Ours was wonderful-- plenty of food, family, and relaxing while grandparents took our kids to The Muppet Movie {they've been quoting it ever since}. Then we hunkered down and spent the weekend living off of turkey and stuffing while filming our 4th annual Christmas Video.

Nothing ushers in the holidays like blanketing the living room in fake snow, cotton balls and tinsel, even if I will be digging it out of the crevices of the sofa for the next five weeks. :)

What about you? Did you put up the tree this weekend? Participate in Black Friday madness? Or simply relax and eat pie for breakfast? {If so, good call!}

Making Do

2011-11-23T20:08:00.001-07:00

This morning, I noticed Little Miss C's backpack on the counter. The bottom was ripped across the entire length, rendering it useless. I asked, "How long has it been like this? How do you carry your stuff to school?" She shrugged and replied, "I wear it upside down!" That girl! She brings new meaning to the phrase, "Make do or do without."

So I dug out my old bag from college and emptied it for her to use. Among the contact sheets, photo paper, mechanical pencils and half filled binders was a stash of quarters I had hoarded for use on vending machines. Almost $10 worth! Several pounds of apples later and we're back in pie business-- just in the nick of time!

Even more cheering than fresh baked apple pie was the two-hour skype chat I had with my mom. Something about this time of year always makes me long for all the women in my life to gather for baking, movie watching, and talking while wearing high heels and aprons.

I mentioned that I switched out some of my art to make it more seasonal. Here's you're visual, mom. :)

I love the little christmas tree in a red rowboat.

And the little sailboat one reminds J of a picture he took in Nova Scotia where he's looking out at the ocean full of chunks of ice and a gigantic iceburg.

Oh, and my distraction for the day? I painted the boys room blue. A few weeks ago, I saw that Martha Stewart paint was being discontinued at Home Depot, so I snatched two gallons of Enamelware blue at a rock bottom price. It's similar to the blue on my front door {Martha Stewart's Artisan Well} but with a touch more green in it. {and that chalkboard used to be in the bathroom, but is now hiding the huge hole that J kicked in the door. Yup, still haven't gotten around to replacing it...}

Then I hung the laminated map I bought {I went with a different seller after the original admitted they couldn't/wouldn't send it in a tube}, had J help me change the twin beds into bunk beds, rearranged the furniture and gave them a mini reveal this afternoon.

It was hilarious how excited they were! Though I still have drapes to sew, pictures to hang, and {someday} carpet to rip out and replace with wood flooring, a simple paint job completely changed the look and feel of the room. {Real photos to come. This is just an iphone teaser.}

Now to tend to the rest of the house {ever notice how the entire place falls apart if you take your attention away for even a single day? I swear, laundry has overtaken the entire living room!} and then paint my mangled nails for Thanksgiving.

Have a Happy Holiday, everyone!

Thankful for Distractions

2011-11-22T08:58:00.001-07:00

Things are quite stressed financially right now. {As in, we're digging quarters out of the sofa in order to buy apples for the pie I have to make for Thanksgiving. True story.} And it's funny, because J and I both have our coping mechanisms: J takes deep breaths and gets to work. I either become paralyzed {sleeping in later and later to avoid the day} or busy myself with creative little tasks in between baking bread and making soup out of leftovers. Anything to distract the mind.

Fortunately, I have a whole box of little projects I've been meaning to get to. First up: refurbishing this nasty tray I found at Ross for $3. Can you believe Little Miss C was appalled when she heard I was going to sand and paint over the flowers and butterfly? Sweet girl.

After sanding, priming and painting, I decided to try my hand at a few stripes for visual interest. In the past, painters tape and I have not been the best of friends. I've learned to do most projects without it, hating the cleanup involved when the paint bleeds thru. But luckily, this time it worked out well.

Now I have a tray {still unstyled-- don't judge} to corral wallets, sunglasses, candles and all that spare change we no longer have. :)

Last night J said, "Besides not being able to pay bills or buy anything, it's not like I feel poor." And I had to agree. We're not poor. I've been poor before-- it's chronic, stressful, fighting-to-survive-day-to-day living. We're just broke.

I heard once that the majority of the nation is 2 missed paychecks away from being homeless. I get that. Life is precarious. It could all change at the drop of a hat.

But being broke is not the worst thing in the world, and as Thanksgiving approaches, I'm reminded that the pilgrims found room in their hearts for gratitude despite poverty, illness and death.

Being broke doesn't negate the fact that I have healthy, happy children. I have a husband that I love fiercely. I can run {slowly} and not be weary. I have friends and family I can talk to and lean on. I live in a free country, never have to shovel snow, and have the gospel to give me comfort and guidance.

Even without an awesome new tray, I am lucky, lucky.

Gilbert Days 5k

2011-11-21T10:44:00.001-07:00

I first ran the Gilbert Days 5k back in 2000, before we even had any children. At the time, we lived in a tiny apartment just down the road where the sounds of the Gilbert Days Parade would wake us from our lazy Saturday slumber. We'd watch from our balcony, then walk to The Farmhouse for omelets and waffles.

Nowadays, the 5k is my official holiday season kickoff. Despite the fact that I'm not a fast runner {and was completely smoked by a 10 year old in a sprint for the finish!} I find the race enormously fun and satisfying. The free Jamba Juice doesn't hurt, either.

Next year, Little Miss C and E want to join in for the 1 mile Fun Run. See you there?

{Shout out to Evelyn-- she's the first blog-reader to recognize me and introduce herself, and ran a great race as well!}

Indulgence

2011-11-17T12:15:00.001-07:00

What do you do to reward yourself? {or as Tom & Donna would say, Treat Yo Self!} Snuggle up with a carton of Ben & Jerry? Watch guilty-pleasure television? Buy clothes? I have to admit, I love all those things. But lately, my favorite way to treat myself is with new nail polish.

Last week, I bought a bottle of Essie's Master Plan {a nice grey similar to Chinchilly, but with less of a purple undertone} It feels neutral and edgy at the same time. Love it. For Thanksgiving, I think I'll brush on a bit of gold glitter, like so:

Other nail trends I'm loving: a glittery french manicure...

A gradient grey manicure:

And these awesome {but expensive} chevron printed nails:

On a side note, sometime this year I officially released my death grip on silver and began to embrace gold, glitter and brass. What the what? I thought warm metals would be forever banned from my home and wardrobe! What can I say? I blame peer pressure. :)

Tandem!

2011-11-14T11:37:00.001-07:00

On Friday, J and I borrowed his parent's tandem bike and went for a long ride. In part, we recreated our very first date; riding through the same intersections to the same park, and reminiscing about our first picnic lunch on our way to our favorite gelato shop. The weather was perfect, the air was crisp and the stars were bright. Fresh air + physical activity + ice cream = romantic, invigorating date. :)

Unfortunately, we had to come home a bit early when the babysitter called to tell us Miss C was sick and throwing up. :( Poor girl was ill all weekend, and I ended up staying home from church on Sunday to nurse her back to health. Ironically, the fact that we devoted a large portion of our weekend to the kids made our brief date all the more valuable!

How on earth did we ever survive without Friday night dates?

{image via}

Weekend

2011-11-11T12:35:00.001-07:00

It's Friday once again!

Currently, I'm making bread, nursing my sore muscles {running 10 miles is on the agenda for tomorrow}, enjoying overcast skies, and looking forward to our date tonight {I'm thinking a gourmet bakery, window shopping and brainstorming ideas for this year's Christmas video.}

What about you? Any grand plans for {or superstitions regarding} 11-11-11? Have a happy weekend, all!

PS- I bought the Darth Vader costume for $4 on clearance, and E hasn't taken it off since. It makes me laugh to see Lord Vader lounging on my sofa whining about being bored. :)

Thanksgiving Tree

2011-11-10T09:23:00.001-07:00

For the last week or so, E has been increasingly distressed by the fact that Christmas decorations have made an appearance in stores even though Thanksgiving has yet to be checked off the calendar. "Why is everyone skipping Thanksgiving?" he implores. "Why are we skipping Thanksgiving?" When I tried to convince him that we are not, in fact, skipping Thanksgiving, he demanded to see our Thanksgiving decorations. Apparently, a holiday isn't actually being celebrated unless decorations accompany it.

So I took him with me on some back roads and we gathered dry branches and leaves to make a Thanksgiving tree. We painted all the leaves silver, wrote things we were thankful for, and hung them on the branches to remind us for the rest of the month.

I know this isn't a new concept {My sister-in-law has been doing this for years, and I've seen it all over the blogosphere} but it was new to our household and satisfied E. {and yes, I know I misspelled binoculars. Ooops.}

How do you decorate for Thanksgiving?

Signs of Autumn

2011-11-09T10:06:00.000-07:00

While the rest of the country is seeing signs of approaching winter, we're finally feeling the shift to Autumn. The cotton fields are ready to harvest...

The bursting seeds of fluffy whiteness make me happy.

Mornings are chill enough for me to eat steel cut oats for breakfast...

...and for the children to wear jackets when they play outside.

I won't lie: it's pretty wonderful.

PS Look where I found L sleeping the other night:

I'm just glad the toilet was clean!!

Phoenix Art Museum

2011-11-08T10:38:00.001-07:00

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For our Friday night date last weekend, J and I participated in First Friday. During the first Friday of every month, many of the museums in the valley are free, with a large scale Art Walk downtown that includes closed off streets, local artists, and trolleys that shuttle people to and from all the smaller art galleries.

In all the years that we've lived here, I'm ashamed to say that I've never been to the Phoenix Art Museum, so it became our number one stop on First Friday, and I was pleasantly surprised. {I loved the huge sputnik chandelier in the lobby.}

While this is a terrible photo, the installation was stunning in person. Wood from a burned out building was suspended by clear thread. The pieces would rotate slowly with drafts-- it was like standing in the midst of a Matrix-like explosion.

The Diving Lady, via

J was particularly pleased to see that the iconic Diving Lady sign from Mesa's Starlight Hotel had been restored and put on display {after crashing to the ground last year in a microburst.}

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One of my favorite exhibits was called You Who Are Getting Obliterated in the Dancing Swarm of Fireflys. It was a darkened, mirrored room with tiny, shifting LED lights suspended from the ceiling. Walking into it was like becoming weightless. It was disorienting and thrilling at the same time.

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And when we accidentally ended up downstairs, we stumbled upon a room full of pieces that examined the life of a Sister Wife. I thought the bonnets made out of needles were beautiful and complex.

It was an exhilarating night, made more so by the rain that chased us away from the outdoor venues and into a local ice cream shop at the end of the evening. {I swear, ice cream is a Mormon couple's wine.}

One thing is certain: I'm loving our Friday night dates. :)

Ch-ch-changes

2011-11-04T11:41:00.001-07:00

I'm so proud of E lately. He's trying so hard to control his temper, be nicer to L, and serve as a good example. It's not easy for him-- he's a perfectionist, easily gets aggravated, and often reacts with anger in order to avoid crying.

{He's really just a big marshmallow at heart. Case in point: we were watching Labyrinth with the kids. During the scene where Baby Toby is crying in the Goblin King's castle, E became very distressed. "He wants his teddy bear!" he'd say, tears welling up in his eyes. It bothered him to no end that they would allow a baby to cry, even if it was just for a movie.}

In the last few months I've watched him come inside while his friends play football out front. He took deep breaths and explained to me that he didn't understand the rules and wanted the boys to play his way. When they refused, he came inside to 'cool down'. Just a few weeks earlier, he would have yelled and hit someone.

A while ago, he got sent to the Principal's office at school again, but this time instead of kicking and screaming uncontrollably, he seethed and proclaimed, "I can't finish my project because I'm just so fust-rated!" He was allowed to sit until his anger subsided, and then he hopped up and declared he was ready to go back to class.

After Nana gave him a dollar for going an entire day without hurting anyone, he proudly came to me after every 24 hours completed without hitting. "I got really mad today, but I didn't hurt even though it was really, really hard," he'd report.

And right now, he and L are upstairs playing some made up game involving a cribbage board and Monopoly money. They haven't yelled, teased, or exchanged insults all morning. It's so nice, that I don't even mind that they're playing instead of cleaning their room.

J and I were quite worried about our temperamental boy, but all this progress reminds me that we're here to learn, grow and develop new skills. None of us are set in stone. Change is possible. He's certainly doing that, and I find it inspiring. I wonder how much I'm capable of change if I'd just put my mind to it?

Run For Your Lives!

2011-11-03T09:25:00.003-07:00

While researching and registering for the races I want to run in the next few months, I stumbled upon this rad run; Advertised as one part 5k, one part obstacle course, one part escaping the clutches of zombies-- and all parts awesome. I am psyched!

The closest one is scheduled for next October in San Diego. I foresee a special trip to California in order to participate. {You in, Pip?}

In the meantime, I'm feeling strong. I'm halfway through training for the 1/2 marathon in January, and I have a race every month leading up to it. {I'm planning on running in the 12k's of Christmas race for the first time, and am pretty happy about it.}

Anyone else ever run in an unusual or themed race? Do you have a favorite? I'm usually such a loner of a runner that races are kind of a new, social aspect of fitness that I'm really digging. :)

Date night

2011-11-02T07:43:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago, J and I decided that our marriage was in dire need of some courtship. We were in parent/provider mode all the time, and by the end of the day I was so exhausted by kids, I had no energy or inclination to connect as a couple. We hired a babysitter {no small expense on our tight budget!} and took off.

The first time, we had no idea where we were going or what we would do. We just wanted to get 'away'. We ended up at Tempe Town Lake and spontaneously rented a paddle boat for an hour. We drifted out under the lights, made out, then walked through the park to buy ice cream. It was terrific. ;)

Last Friday, we went to the Pumpkin and Chili Festival at Schnepf Farms. We went on a hayride, walked through a corn maze in the dark {and scared a bunch of teenagers by sneaking up on them}, ate chili, roasted corn and apple pie; watched the fireworks and rode a haunted train. The weather was perfectly crisp {I finally got to wear boots and a scarf!} and by the end of the night, I felt young again!

Having a regular date night feels like such a luxury and a necessity at the same time. I look forward to it all week, giddy with anticipation. However, it can get expensive. Paying a babysitter means that ideally, the date itself has to cost next to nothing in order to stay in budget.

Do you have a regular date night? Any ideas for low/no cost dates that don't involve movies?

Halloween 2011

2011-11-01T10:21:00.001-07:00

We had a lot of fun with our costumes this year. The children started watching classic episodes of The Addams Family last year, which prompted E to ask if we could please be The Addams family this year so he could "crash model trains."

I made my gown out of two thrifted dresses torn apart and sewn together. J had a plain black suit that we drew lines on with chalk. {Needless to say, it'll need a good dry cleaning!}

Little Miss C really got into character. We joked that for such a sunny, princess-y type of girl, we're always forcing her into quite the macabre roles. {I also made her outfit-- out of a woman's shirtdress from Goodwill and the collar of an old boy's dress shirt. I'm quite proud of how it turned out.}

E was originally going to be Pugsley, but changed his mind when we bought the trick lightbulb. He's actually quite fond of his newly bald head. He looks like J's mini-me. :)

L didn't care who he was dressed as. All he wanted was lots and lots of candy. Mission accomplished.

I had an awesome Cousin It outfit for Baby R, but he freaked out when we put him in it. So he became Baby Addams at the last minute and thoroughly enjoyed himself-- especially when given a sword or a sucker.

That's it! Adieu until next year!

Happy Halloween & Costume Reveal!

2011-10-31T09:47:00.000-07:00

Our neighborhood had a big Halloween Spooktacular on Saturday, so we were able to premier our costumes. Instead of pictures, J put together this little video for you all. :) We also won Best Ensemble, which the kids found very exciting. Happy Halloween!

PS Yes, we really did shave his head. The horror! :)

Happy Weekend!

2011-10-28T08:10:00.002-07:00

This week it finally --finally-- feels like fall. The air is crisp, the shadows long, and the days short. Perfect for a Halloween weekend!

Plans: putting the finishing touches on our costumes {tune in Monday for the reveal!}, going on a hayride with my honey {sweaters and cuddling will be required}, and watching classic Halloween cartoons with the kids {it's just not Halloween without that Trick or Treat song!}.

Now, if only we had autumn leaves!

Happy Weekend, all!

{image by Nico}

Caramel Apples

2011-10-27T14:17:00.000-07:00

J and I have a running disagreement over apples. I prefer mine tart {a la Granny Smith} he prefers his Red and Delicious. Yesterday, I saw a bag of Honeycrisp apples and knew that they could be the answer to all of our {apple related} problems.

Satisfyingly crunchy, slightly sweet, and with just a hint of tartness-- they are the quintessential autumn apple. In celebration over our discovery, we made caramel apples-- the quintessential autumn treat.

In the past, I've had difficulties with caramel apples. The caramel tends to slowly slide off the apple until it's left standing in a sticky, scrumptious puddle. This time, I made sure to wash and dry the apples thoroughly and I didn't add any water to the Kraft caramels {still my favorite!} as I melted them on the stovetop.

The result? Shiny, sweet awesomeness. If you happen to come over {and promise to say carmel instead of caramel} I may even share. :)

Never Again

2011-10-24T09:09:00.000-07:00

This weekend, I got rid of the very last of my maternity clothes. I've sold all the baby toys, passed on teeny-tiny newborn outfits and cleared my drawers of nursing paraphernalia.

I am done.

I'm sure it comes as no surprise that I feel a monumental sense of relief at the thought of never being pregnant again. Pregnancy was never easy for me. It pushed me to the absolute limits mentally and physically, driving me into the depths of depression and testing the strength of all my relationships. Not once was it embarked on without first having to steel my determination and faith. And while it was obviously worth ever second, I can't downplay the hardship of it. In fact, I'm sort of surprised that I actually went through it four times.

I couldn't do it again. And if, for some reason, I thought that I could-- J would point out that our marriage probably couldn't go through it again.

So I'm done. And for the most part, I'm glad. I'll still finger the ruffly, little baby-girl dresses a bit wistfully, but I'm happy with our rambunctious brood.

I'll buy the dresses for my grandbabies. :)

Happy weekend!

2011-10-21T09:28:00.003-07:00

It's Friday! I'm planning on cleaning the house, finishing the sewing of Halloween costumes, and getting prepped for a hot date with my husband. How about you?

Have a happy weekend, all!

PS- Little L dressed himself this morning. He really enjoys being nekkid. :)

The Great Pumpkin

2011-10-20T07:26:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we saw a huge pumpkin at the entrance to the grocery. Little Miss C was rather dramatic about it.

They each insisted on being photographed with it, and dubbed it The Great Pumpkin.

To be honest, I'm not certain we'll even carve pumpkins this year. They're expensive {$5 each!}, time consuming {they have to be carved the night before, since the heat makes them shrivel up so fast}, and somehow I always end up finishing them all up myself while the family watches Halloween cartoons. Maybe we'll just skip it.

Do you plan on carving pumpkins? Do you get one for each member of the family? Do you use Funkins {the fake ones bought at craft stores}? Do tell.

Test Tube Obsession

2011-10-19T08:50:00.004-07:00

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Science has always been chic in my book, but lately I'm in love with test tube racks. They're surprisingly expensive-- even the new, plastic ones sell for quite a bit-- but I keep my eye out for a nice vintage wire or wooden rack with a nice patina. I dream of finding one in a forgotten corner of a garage sale for $5.

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Of course, with Halloween on its way, test tube racks enjoy an added appeal. Fill them with mysterious contents, label them with scientific hang tags and cover with cobwebs. Done!

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If I don't find something suitable soon, I may attempt to go the DIY route. I like the above rack that's made to look aged-- It's simple and streamlined and completely doable.

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But then there is this-- test tubes all strung together, allowing them to be arranged in all kinds of formations. It figures that my favorite is completely non-DIY friendly, not to mention the most expensive. {I saw it at Dree's in Olympia for over $100.}

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If I get desperate, there's always the z-rack. I've found it as cheap as $17 online, and it would look cool as a pencil holder.

Still, I dream of that perfectly aged test tube rack sitting neglected in a thrift store....

Polka Dot Love

2011-10-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

Every time I wear polka dots, I get this little twinge of sadness thinking that someday, I'm going to be too old to pull them off. Right now they're on trend {thank you Kate Spade} but in about a decade, I'll probably have to retire them in favor or something more sober. {Seriously, can you imagine Nina Garcia or Meryle Streep wearing them? Polka dots can so easily skew precious.}

This particular dress is vintage and recently enjoyed a re-introduction to my wardrobe {after a two-year hiatus!} thanks to a sturdy pair of Spanx and the removal of the annoying ruffle around the neckline.

You know, on second thought, forget retiring the polka dots. Since when have I dressed my age anyway? I'm going to be one of those Grandma's with a closet full of jewels, {fake} furs and high heels. I'm going to wear lipstick to check the mail and introduce my granddaughters to expensive dresses, sparkling water and really good chocolate. And every once in a while, I'll yell out "I'm ready for my close up!" amid a crowd of strangers just to drive home the point that I'm eccentric.

It's all going to start by wearing polka dots whenever I want, and it's going to be awesome.

Beach Glass at Glass Beach

2011-10-17T06:00:00.000-07:00

My mom collects beach glass. {We always make a point of bringing her some from every beach we visit-- she has pieces from all around the world.} I've always loved the look of it, but haven't been able to figure out what I'd do with it... until now! I love the ombre effect in this photo by Jennifer Steen Booher and feel that to jump start my own collection, a trip to Glass Beach in California may be in order:

Apparently, it used to be a local dumping ground, but after a few years the junk was tumbled into beautiful, smooth beach glass. I want to go to there. ;)

{found via Liz}

Mid-Century Bullet Light

2011-10-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

You see what I was hopeless to resist? That's right-- the mid century bullet light came home with me. If you follow me on Pinterest, then you've probably seen my search for a replacement porch light. I've hated the builder-standard one we've been stuck with, despite spray painting it silver.

And upgrading the light allowed me to finally install our new house numbers without feeling like they clashed too much with the rest of our exterior. {The picture shows J doing the drilling, but trust me- I did my fair share of work.}

Et voila! It's a simple change, but one that makes me very happy.

I still have to do a little bit of paint touch-up, {I was too excited-- I had to take pictures before waiting for the caulk to dry} but otherwise, it's all good. Maybe someday I'll get a new doorbell button?

Happy weekend, all!

Treasures at the Antique Trove

2011-10-13T07:39:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, J took two of the kids with him while he went off-roading and train-filming. Anytime I'm left with only half the kids, I feel liberated and take on things I wouldn't normally-- like antique shopping.

Usually, my method when shopping is to load things I like into the cart, then take a final assessment before checking out, weeding things out until I'm left with only one or two items that really speak to me. That's hard to do when antiquing, so I take pictures instead. I loved these black and white gloves for $16. And they actually fit! {Is it just me or did ladies in the past have freakishly small hands?}

These sets of children's books give me warm and fuzzy memories of reading similar volumes on the steps of my grandmother's house. Plus, the colors and illustrations are awesome. $10 each. Ack!

Don't they look like they would appeal to my boys? Stories of adventure! Brave deeds! Famous explorers!

What's this? A Herman Miller chair? $250 but surprisingly comfortable even without a pad.

And a hairpin leg coffee table! I've been eyeing hairpin legs on ebay because I'm dead set on making something similar for our house. Another high-ticket item. I believe it was $150.

Oooh-- here's a lovely typesetters tray. I can imaging using it as an advent calendar-- all those beautiful compartments would be perfect for tiny wrapped packages or simple little candies and ornaments. $25.00 isn't cheap, but it's better than paying the shipping on ebay or etsy....

A mid-century bullet light sconce! I die. Seriously.

Two pinecone shaped taper holders. I seem to remember them being $7 each, but that tag says $2. Too early to be thinking about Christmas?

I saw a bunch of vintage floral frogs, but this copper one was especially pretty. I like the bowl shape, and the patina on the copper is kind of intriguing.

Enamel pendant light for $25. I'm a total sucker for pendant lights and enamel, so this really caught my eye. Where would I put it?

A completely amazing Danish planter. Seriously so beautiful and would fit right in with the mid-century backyard I'm designing. Dang that $149 price tag! Dang my empty wallet!!

And can I get a collective gasp of nostalgia? My brothers and I were obsessed with He-Man and She-Ra and the Masters of the Universe. I think we even had one of these play castles. {Mom? Any idea where they went?} Look at the prices! $66.00! That's amazing to me.

Though I had vowed not to actually purchase anything, one of these items came home with me and tomorrow I'll show you what it was and what I did with it. Hint: it wasn't Scull Mountain. :)

Where do you find your treasures?

Planning for Christmas...

2011-10-12T09:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I was at a thrift store and snagged a few toys for about $2 a piece. As I stashed them in the closet to save for Christmas, I started to think more seriously about what we'll give each of the kids this year. We're pretty broke, but I'd still like to make a big impact.

The easiest solution is to gift things I've already had in mind as DIY projects. For the E and L, I'm thinking of making a play teepee. They're cute, they're impressive, and they're inexpensive if you use drop cloths instead of designer fabric. {I like this tutorial.}

For Baby R, I'd like to make a play stove out of one of our old nightstands. I like the style of the above kitchen, but will probably use this tutorial. And I'm toying with buying some stainless steel contact paper, like on the {amazing!} play kitchen below...

Now for the conundrum. What to do for Little Miss C? She's 10 years old now, and on the verge of outgrowing little girl things, but at the moment is obsessed with American Girl, bird watching, art and sewing. Any ideas?

What are you planning for your kids?

Dear Mrs. Looking...

2011-10-11T06:30:00.000-07:00

You said you wanted to see an example of the outfits I've been dreaming up for you, so here are two. I purposely haven't included sources, because in the beginning stages of building a wardrobe and exploring different styles, it's more fun if you're oblivious to price tags. :)

Would you wear these or are they missing the mark? I'll have to get your input. Love ya!

PS- Thanks to everyone for the sweet comments yesterday! You're too kind. :)

Refashionista

2011-10-10T09:25:00.003-07:00

For someone who feels fat lately {I ran out of antidepressants a few days ago which makes me view those extra 10 pounds as soooo much more weight than it actually is} I'm about to post a LOT pictures of myself. :)

After sewing like a madwoman, I was able to enjoy the fruits of my refashioning labors while traveling around town in the beautiful fall weather this weekend. First up-- a Converse dress that I bought on clearance for just $7. I love the ikat stripes, but the pre-teen sundress shape on my womanly body always made me look pregnant. So I turned it into a skirt:

Much better! The a-line shape is super flattering.

Next is a dip-dyed linen dress from the Gap that I bought while I was in Washington for $5. {They were having a sale on the clearance items.} I could see its potential, despite the fact that it was a size 14 and I was swimming in it. After chopping off a bunch of fabric and taking it in, I felt ladylike and ready for a harvest-time picnic:

Last is a dress I bought from the custom-clothing online boutique, eShakti {I had a $20 off coupon}. I ordered this dress with 3/4 sleeves and a deep neckline, but didn't like any of the color choices. So I opted for white and then dyed it with two boxes of RIT dye in Kelly Green and Dark Green.

I'll be honest-- it's a whole lotta dress. I'm used to the pencil-skirt silhouette, and this full dress is a bit much. But I'm embracing the 50's housewife in me and vowing to dye it black when I get tired of the green.

What about you? Any favorite refashioning tricks?

Sick

2011-10-06T09:21:00.000-07:00

All that late-night sewing caught up to me and now I'm sick. Again. But it's raining outside and I've got movies to watch and soup to eat. I may even do some more sewing...

This photo really doesn't have anything to do with anything, but I just like the way my 'city' art has evolved. I've got my NY painting, Seattle letterpress card, map of Paris and an old promotional yardstick from Phoenix. Silly things like these make me happy.

Oh, and since I'm sick:

BAM! Another picture of a bed. Because that's the way I roll.

The Latest

2011-10-05T09:09:00.000-07:00

Despite staying up til 2 a.m. last night, I woke up happy this morning. The early morning breeze wafting through the windows carry a hint of coolness {finally!} and I feel energized to take on projects. Good timing-- the older kids are at 'school' today, and the two younger ones are content {Baby R is grinning even though his sister put bows in his hair}. With a little luck, I just might get a few things accomplished.

I bought this navy blue lamp at an Antique store for $5. It's HUGE. I'm updating it with a drum shade, which I plan on covering with one of these fabrics. {The one draped over the shade is my favorite, but I may not have enough.}

I'm sewing up a storm {which is why I was up so late last night} and hope to finish a skirt and a dress today. I really wish I'd use an actual pattern one of these days. Making it up as I go along results in some interesting products, often revealing how much I'm NOT Project Runway material.

I bought this laminated wall map online, and the dang company keeps sending it in a plastic bag. No cardboard tube or anything! Naturally, it keeps arriving creased and wrinkled. Even the UPS man was flabbergasted and apologetic. I'm going to try ironing it this afternoon, otherwise it's going back. AGAIN.

Perhaps I spoke too soon regarding getting things done... Baby R is already starting to fuss and cling to my skirt. Perhaps I'll just give him his favorite bottle of hooch-- maple syrup. He's a sugar addict, that one. :)

Conference Weekend

2011-10-01T16:48:00.001-07:00

Has it really been six months already? Apparently so. Thanks to the advent of streaming video, we've spent the day watching conference while folding laundry and -ahem- napping. :) Happy Weekend.

This is Halloween

2011-09-30T09:39:00.000-07:00

I know. It's not even October {yet!} but the kids and I couldn't wait. We dug out all the Halloween decorations and started getting the house decked out for the holidays. Can you blame us? We're just so ready for it to be fall, even if the scorching temperatures outside say otherwise.

Our newest addition to our Halloween arsenal: bats flying across the garage door. Finally, a good use for vinyl decals! And the ghosts were made out of old IKEA curtains and some florist wire.

Now, to put our old costumes on Ebay and start sewing the new ones.... are you ready for Halloween?

DIY Under-bed Storage

2011-09-29T12:56:00.000-07:00

I've been meaning {for years!} to buy some storage drawers to slide under the boy's beds, but most options seemed to be either prohibitively expensive, unsightly, or both. So when I saw this DIY idea from Better Homes and Gardens, I had to give it a try. I purchased a few mismatched drawers from my local ReStore, slapped some paint, casters and fresh knobs on them, and voila! Rolling under-bed storage!

Here's the cost breakdown:

Drawers: $2 each

Rolling Casters: $3 each {for 8, this was the most expensive part of the project}

Knobs: $1 each {except for the Anthro one I already had}

Paint: already had on hand

Cork Shelf Liner: left-over from organizing the pantry

Total: $32 for both.

I love them. They roll smoothly, look expensive, and work perfectly. I plan to make some for Little Miss C's bed as well. :)

DIY Glitter Shoes

2011-09-23T11:32:00.001-07:00

It doesn't even feel like Autumn around here, {despite the fact that today is officially the first day of fall. Hooray!} but I find myself daydreaming about upcoming winter holidays.

To satisfy my cravings for glitz, I decided to refurbish a pair of beloved-but-damaged-beyond-repair heels {last seen here}. There are countless tutorials out there for glittering a pair of shoes {this is a good one} but basically all it takes is glitter, Modpodge, and sandpaper. It took me a single evening, and though the results are a little, um, gold, I'm finding that they're growing on me.

Here's a bit more glittery goodness to get you inspired:

via

There now, aren't you in the mood for a cute dress and a party to go to? Me too! Happy Weekend!

$1 Well Spent

2011-09-21T06:16:00.002-07:00

Most of the time, the selection in the dollar bin is rather.... cheap looking. But yesterday, I stumbled across these Alice in Wonderland inspired drawer knobs in the dollar section of Michaels and was pleasantly surprised. Wouldn't they look great mounted all in a row to hang necklaces and such? I bought a few for a project I have in mind. Stay tuned. :).

Chore Drudgery

2011-09-20T16:27:00.002-07:00

Last night, I asked Little Miss C to load the dishwasher. Thinking she was being helpful, she also started it {without finishing with the loading, I might add}. Moments later, J walked into the room to find suds pouring onto the floor.

Yep, she'd filled it with dish soap instead of dishwashing detergent.

Luckily, generous amounts of vinegar, salt and a few rounds of the rinse cycle solved the problem.

*Sigh*

Isn't this always a risk when teaching children to do chores? Often the work they create is more than the work they complete. As I sweep the floor {after it's supposedly already been swept} and watch the children shove newly folded laundry into a sloppy pile within their drawers, I have to tell myself that it all pays off in the long run.

Even if the only one who will enjoy the fruits of my labors is Little Miss C's future spouse. :)

Someone please buy these!

2011-09-19T19:32:00.001-07:00

Are you a size 6 1/2? If so, right now is your Cinderella moment! Try as I might, I could not squeeze my {ugly step-sister} size 7 feet into them, but these glittered Kate Spade beauties are just $39 at the TJ Maxx on Gilbert Rd and the 202.

Pair them with a little black dress and a golden manicure and you'll be ahead of the game for all of the Christmas and New Year's Eve parties coming up this holiday season.

Your welcome. Now go!

My Mother's House

2011-09-16T17:23:00.001-07:00

My parents have lived in a lot of houses in their lifetime; whether it's an apartment, tent, or grand log cabin, my mother always knows how to make it a home. This is a talent I largely took for granted growing up, and then as an adult, I expected I would naturally inherit the ability to do the same. As it turns out, it's not that simple. To this day, I love going home just to bask in the curated coziness of her home. As of this week, they've moved on to yet another house, so I'm glad I snapped a few shots of their tiny {truly! it was tiny!} cottage in Olympia, WA. Here's a peek:

I love all the white-- it really opened up the space and made it feel light and spacious despite it's location in the Olympic Rainforest. {I've since vowed that I will have white sofas someday!} My dad built that amazing cabinet against the far wall and it's always served as a perfect surface for photos and collections.

A slim entry table lines the wall as you walk in. It's topped by Rear Window posters {a slight inside joke, as they've taken to calling the place their 'Rear Window' house because dad pays so much attention to the goings-on in the neighborhood}. An elegant bowl accepts keys and loose change while a wooden hand {which E named Thing} stands ready to hold the mail.

Unhindered by the small space, my mother is bold with large scale art. One of my favorites is this large piece of plywood painted in oceanic tones and topped with the equation for the atomic bomb done in silver leaf.

On the opposite wall, a huge map hangs above the desk and serves as a backdrop for numerous collections. I love that their house is filled with objects that they find beautiful or interesting. I always feel I have to have a purpose for owning something, but have found that display alone is purpose enough. {Above: collection of sea glass from beaches all around the world; vintage metal seedling planter filled with perfumes.}

The objects displayed always have a story or sentiment attached. My dad actually attended the Worlds Fair in '61 and the cameras are quintessentially mom. {part of the reason I found J so attractive was because my mother shares the same passion for the art of film and photography.}

Everywhere I looked, a story was being told. The entry table {which also served as toy storage} was lined with all kinds of beautiful images of vintage alphabet cards and storybook pages. A large frame on one wall was filled with movie ticket stubs collected from years of Friday-night dates together, and what could have been an ugly door to the fuse box was covered in magnetic poetry.

I wish I'd taken a more pulled-back shot of the kitchen, but this shows a bit of how white and bright it was. Tiny pops of red livened it up a bit, and she managed to have open shelving without it looking cluttered.

There was so much more I should have taken photos of, but I'll sum up with this seemingly simple arrangement of art. I found it so touching that after all this time, I could come home and find art on the wall that I remember her carefully selecting, saving, framing and displaying over the years. I can remember where and when each was found, and that history is beautiful to me.

In fact, I think one of the reasons I love her house so much is that it's infused with personality and history in a way that expensive-but-decorated-in-a-week-on-television homes never are. After a summer spent there, I'm inspired to attempt the same for my own home.

Goodbye lovely house! I can't wait to see the newest incarnation. :)

Dreaming

2011-09-13T15:50:00.002-07:00

L, the baby and I are sick. So what do I do with my lounging-on-the-sofa-in-my-pajamas time? Watch Doc Martin and sketch plans for a new chicken coop, of course.

The easiest way to get J excited about {and thus totally on board with} any home project is to mention mid-century architecture. This is no different. After all, my dad was able to build an awesome coop after I sent them a few photos of modern ones for sale. Behold:

Who says I can't have a mid century chicken coop? I Googled a few images...

...and came up with this:

{I know, a bit hard to read. Wait til I get the Adobe Illustrator version finished...} Then, while we were focusing on the backyard anyway, J suggested we build a fire pit:

We could even put in a half-moon bench as pictured in this Elle Decor photo...

...and add a few of these chairs to complete the area.

While we're at it, why don't we reduce the size of the coop and put in a sandbox for the kids? Like so:

Why yes, I DO think a mobile would look great hanging from a tree branch above!

And the porch? Well, I think two of these chairs and a small side table would suffice for those early morning breakfasts as we watch the sun rise...

Cost? Oh,..... right. Well, that's why this post is entitled 'Dreaming'. :)

What do you daydream about?

Excuses, excuses.

2011-09-12T13:39:00.000-07:00

I owe you an apology. I promised a post on Fashion for Less last week, but it never materialized. Partly because I still have some sewing to do {spoiler!} and partly because we decided to hold a yard sale/lemonade stand at the last minute...

... which, by the way, was a grand success. The kids squeezed all the lemons for the lemonade and Little Miss C proved to be the ray of sunshine that persuaded even the toughest construction worker to stop and buy a drink or brownie. They made $97.00 {!!!} which we then had them deduct overhead costs from and divide the profits between them {80/20 since Little Miss did most of the work}. Best math class ever.

I spent the rest of the weekend {finally!} getting organized. I made brand new chore charts, gave the house a good cleaning, and took all our unsold yard-sale stuff to Goodwill.

And now I can start sewing {while watching Project Runway, naturally}. Hopefully I'll have a fashion post up for you this week, m'kay?

{image, image}

You know you want some!

2011-09-09T09:25:00.001-07:00

If you're near Pecan Creek {Ironwood & Ocotillo} stop by the neighborhood yard sales today and tomorrow from 7 til noon. And buy some lemonade while you're at it. :)

Books and lemonade

2011-09-08T09:57:00.001-07:00

I went to the library yesterday and am eager to nestle into a comfy chair and slip onto a book-coma, but alas-- I'm busy getting ready for the neighborhood yard sale that starts tomorrow. We've never really held a yard sale before, but I have items hanging around the house that I keep meaning to craigslist, and we could really use the money. We're broke. {It turns out that taking a month off of work to road-trip has that effect. Who knew, right?}

The kids want to have a lemonade stand/bake sale. I think we're all in denial about the end of summer {the triple digit temperatures aren't helping!}

If you happen to be in the neighborhood tomorrow, stop by! We'd love to see you. And sell you overpriced {but beautifully presented!} lemonade. :)

Cabela's

2011-09-06T10:05:00.003-07:00

Wow, I'm having a really hard time being home. Instead of slipping into a healthy routine, diving back into my responsibilities or even thinking of fun and distracting things to do here, I spend a lot of time reminiscing and missing people.

I mean, it's not like I didn't have off days in Washington. Like this-- no one felt up to anything big, but the kids had cabin fever so we took them to Cabela's. {And now that you mention it, yes, that is Baby R in Spiderman pajamas. Some days, that's just the way I roll.}

But it was awesome! The kids spent hours there and were enthusiastic the whole time. L was obsessed with this huge catfish and would tug at my shirt every time it made the smallest movement, exclaiming "He waking up! He moving! He waking up!"

And don't even get me started on all the taxidermy. It was better than a zoo, seeing all the animals up close. As you can see, L particularly liked the elephant.

Even things we hadn't expected the kids to gravitate towards turned out to be entertaining. They ran in and out of hunting blinds as though they were clubhouses, and E loved to put on camouflage hat & gloves, stand in front of more camouflage and ask, "Can you see me?"

I know I can go to Cabela's here, but what I'm really missing is the camaraderie of sharing the daily joys and frustrations of raising my children.

It was so nice to have people who love my kids and rejoice in all their quirky personalities, but then also heave a sigh of relief when they're finally in bed and we can settle in to watch a movie and eat ice cream. To have adult conversations in the middle of the afternoon with, or have someone who can look you in the eye and reaffirm that yes, this is a really hard job and don't worry, you don't suck at it.

sigh.

I just miss my family, and today it's making me all, "Modern suburbia is stupid!" and "Why don't we have villages to raise our children anymore?" and "I can't remember why we even live here" kind of pouty.

Next summer can't come soon enough.

Labor Day

2011-09-05T10:26:00.000-07:00

Last night, Little Miss C asked what the word 'labor' meant. J told her it meant work. "So tomorrow is Work Day?" she replied skeptically, "how is that a holiday?"

"Oh, it's a great holiday!" J reassured her. "All children learn the value of work as they labor in the backyard. You guys can mow the lawn and pull the weeds and trim the hedges..."

At this point, Little Miss was sure he was joking and looked to me for confirmation, but I simply shrugged and said, "Why else do you think all the hardware stores have Labor Day sales? And when you're done you can come inside and fold laundry!"

"But that's not a holiday!" she wailed indignantly.

J and I just grinned, "Well, it is for us!"

Parenting has its perks, and freaking your kids out with misinformation is one of them. Happy Labor Day. :)

Weekend poll

2011-09-03T10:32:00.003-07:00

These shoes are undoubtably sexy-- the question is are they trampy-sexy or sophisticated-sexy? I can't decide {and don't want to spend $30 if they're in poor taste}. Vote in the comments!

$5 or less

2011-09-02T11:02:00.001-07:00

One of the ways that my mom and I coped with being constantly around children during our two months together was rather cliche but very effective-- we shopped. Neither one of us were/are rolling in the dough, so to speak, so our retail therapy consisted largely of bargain hunting at Goodwill and the like. Here are some of my inexpensive {$5 or under!} finds and a few tips on how you can do the same.

Brand new Converse sneakers for Baby R: $4.99 at Goodwill. August is a great month to look for clothes and shoes at thrift stores-- all the big retailers start donating unsold clearance items to make way for the Fall lines, meaning you can find items with tags still attached but pay only a fraction of the cost!

Wooden Pirate Puzzle $4.49 at World Market. I always check the clearance section at this store-- they have cute toys that work perfectly as stocking stuffers, Easter basket fillers or small birthday gifts.

Mirrored Pound-a-Ball Toy $4.99 at Goodwill. Another item I found brand new in its box at a fraction of the original price. A tip with thrift stores-- find one or two locations that cater to high-income neighborhoods and then visit it once a week. Usually, the best deals I've found have only been on the sales floor for a day or two, so it pays to visit often.

Diggin' Car Boxset. This is one of those brilliantly designed toys that I love and would usually splurge on come Christmas, but I found it at Goodwill for $3.99. It was missing a few pieces, so I emailed Diggin' about buying replacement parts and they sent them to me for free. Sweet!

Build and Grow Projects at Lowes- FREE! Sign up early and your kids get to build anything from a tow truck to wooden binoculars that really work! The toys are unique, of good quality, plus the kids get an apron, goggles, and ofttimes a snack-- all at no cost to you.

Striped Espadrille Shoes-$4.97 at Old Navy. Though I get frustrated with the 'disposable' clothing found at Old Navy, things like shoes and accessories can be had for a song, especially if you haunt the clearance section.

Mason Jar Drink Dispenser $4.99 at World Market. Did you know that if you join their Explorers Club, World Market will send you {really good!} coupons as well as a $10 gift certificate on your birthday? I signed up every member of the family {even the baby!} so that 6 months out of the year, I have $10 to spend! This drink dispenser was under $5 thanks to Little Miss C's birthday credit. :)

Remember how much E loved the Rush Hour Jr game? Since then, I've found the full sized version as well as the Railroad version of the game {both in box!} for under $5 at thrift stores! I'm saving them as Christmas gifts....

Lastly, this wasn't $5. It was $19. But it's a Stokke Tripp Trapp Highchair, which normally sells for well over $200. I couldn't believe it when I saw it sitting amongst a bunch of junk at Goodwill! My initial plan was to turn around and sell it for a quick profit, but it turns out that it really is well designed... I think I'll use it til baby R outgrows it and then I'll sell it. Perhaps a paint job is in order? :)

Next week: fashion for less! Happy weekend all, and happy bargain hunting!

Little Miss Turns 10!

2011-08-31T11:00:00.002-07:00

Can it be? Has it really been an entire decade since I first became a mother and this little ray of sunshine entered our lives? The calendar proclaims it is so, but I can hardly believe it.

Happy birthday, darling girl. You're growing up far too quickly. :)

Vintage Pendant Light

2011-08-30T17:54:00.001-07:00

J and I went thrift/vintage store shopping last week and among the many treasures we discovered was this pendant light:

It reminds me of Jonathan Adler's Parker Light, which I've been coveting for a few years:

But since it's not a flush-mount like the Jonathan Adler light, I declined to get it. Still, I can't help being tempted.... What do you think? Is $100 a good deal? Could I make it a flush-mount? I can't help but picture it in the powder room. :)

Decisions, decisions...

E Gets A Pirate Tooth

2011-08-30T17:41:00.000-07:00

The day we left on our trip to Washington, E began complaining that his tooth hurt. It shortly became clear that he had a pretty severe cavity, but without the insurance or funds to get it fixed out-of-state, we were forced to give him periodic doses of painkillers and have him wait until we got home.

E was terrified that the dentist was going to give him a bunch of painful shots in his mouth {a fear that, admittedly, we cultivated years ago by telling him that that would be the result if he didn't brush his teeth} and consequently, I had to promise him that the dentist would give him laughing gas instead. The idea of this was somehow hilarious to him, and the day he went to get his 'pirate' tooth, he was excited and happy. Though he didn't laugh and giggle after the nitrous was administered, he did get all mellow. He flashed us a bunch of thumbs up and once burst into a rendition of It's A Pirate's Life For Me. :)

Now he's all fixed up and pain free. I took a picture of his tooth for the blog, but staring into the cavern of his mouth was grossing even me out, so I'll leave you with his sno-cone face instead.

You're welcome.

All Dressed Up

2011-08-29T13:35:00.000-07:00

We had considered extending our trip several times {the lure of the coast was so enticing!} but at the last minute, J's sister announced her wedding date as August 26th, so we had to hurry home in order to attend. Plus side? The perfect excuse to go shopping and get all dressed up!

Though the couple declined to have any bridesmaids or groomsmen, they asked the guests to dress in the wedding colors- black, white and red. Once again, I experimented with pin-curling my hair {it worked this time!} and tried on Mad Men dresses...

The heat was horrendous {it was an outdoor reception... in August... in Arizona. Enough said.} but we had a great time and felt all fancy.

PS My husband looks so dashing in a suit! This just reinforces my opinion that I'd be perfectly content to dress as though it was still 1959.

Chatterbug

2011-08-26T08:03:00.003-07:00

L is our little chatterbug. On the way back from Laguna Beach, he was about two seconds away from falling asleep, yet he would not. stop. talking.

Little Miss C and E had been snipping at each other and arguing so much that as punishment, I told them they were forbidden from saying a word and instead had to listen to the sweet sound of their younger brother's voice.

He was happy to fill the silence with an endless stream of observations. "There a bus! It blue! Not green. Honk! No! It not a tunnel! Honk in a tunnel. Mountain! Hey mommy! Red car! You missed it! Look, I bigger! Not smaller. I not miss it. Mini Cooper!"

On and on he jabbered until J and I were giggling and he finally passed out in exhaustion.

Best punishment ever.

Laguna Beach

2011-08-26T07:58:00.001-07:00

After Disneyland, we conformed to tradition and spent the following day relaxing and playing on Laguna Beach. Baby R, however, did not spend the entire day sleeping the way that baby L had done 3 years ago. He was far too interested in eating sand, digging with a shovel and chasing seagulls.

At this point, I discovered that I'd become completely acclimated to Washington weather. California felt HOT, and Arizona was only going to feel hotter. We enjoyed the water and salty breeze while we could.

Isn't Little Miss C growing up to be gorgeous? I love her freckles and surfer hair.

In typical fashion, E spent most of his time making sand structures. He also took a little nap on a beach towel-- we really wore him out at Disneyland! L made sandcastles as well, but kept his creations a few feet down the beach from E's. They can play NEAR each other, just not WITH each other. I can't wait for them to outgrow this and become friends.

Little Miss C, ever the social butterfly, made a few friends. They captured hermit crabs, made skirts out of kelp, and buried each other in the sand.

And me? I spent my day on the beach the way I always do-- lounging, dozing, and snapping photos of the little ones. :)

Disneyland

2011-08-25T15:17:00.001-07:00

After Yosemite, we drove to Anaheim and surprised the kids by announcing that we were going to Disneyland. {Squeals all around}! J's sister is getting married to an awesome guy who also happens to work at the Magical Kingdom. He was able to get us into the park for free AND hook us up with all kinds of passes to get us to the front of the lines.

What a difference that made! We were able to go on twice as many rides as we did 3 years ago, and half of the kids were big enough to go on some of the more intense rides, so J and I tag-teamed it and took turns staying with the baby. We had a blast. {We should have made friends with a park employee years ago! It's the best way to do Disneyland, hands down.}

It was a hot day, but we spent most of it indoors {thanks to avoiding long lines!} and consequently, felt energetic enough that we stayed from the opening of the gates until the last of the fireworks died off. It was a long, full, memorable day. We even tried out California Adventure, but concluded that it felt too much like a prettied up carnival, lacking some of the fantastical charm that Disneyland embodies. {However, we did enjoy the Toy Story Midway Mania game.}

Baby R took a few naps in the stroller, but the one we really wore out was E. By dinner time, he ignored the fireworks, put his face on the table and fell soundly asleep. We were unable to wake him for the rest of the night!

{Best ride? Star Tours got my vote, J loved Indiana Jones, and as always, the Finding Nemo submarine, the Haunted Mansion and the Pirates of the Caribbean were high on the list.}

And so we say farewell to the Happiest Place on Earth-- at least until we go back in another 3 years.

*We did actually take tons of pictures on the "real" camera, but I haven't downloaded them yet. These are my iphone pics.

Yosemite

2011-08-24T20:25:00.000-07:00

My mom keeps saying that she doesn't know what the appeal of Yosemite is-- that given the choice, she wouldn't visit, because it lacks the grandeur of someplace like the Grand Canyon. While I understand her concern that it's 'just nature' and 'boring', I think she'd change her mind if she saw it.

We drove in just as the sun was setting. Campfire smoke was settling in the valley between mountain peaks like a grey river, and breathtaking cliff faces were bathed in red light. We'd driven like mad to try and reach the park in daylight-- taking the snaking roads and switchbacks at such speed that we'd made Baby R carsick and he'd thrown up in protest. But the light disappeared as we approached, leaving us with just a glimpse of purple mountains and thundering waterfalls.

Luckily, we'd paid for a tent in Housekeeper Camp and didn't have to set up in the dark. I was impressed with the accommodations-- a screened cooking and dining area, three beds and electricity. No more sleeping on the ground! Though it was strange to be so closely quartered with other campers. It was like one of those old Donald Duck cartoons where everyone rushes to spend time in the 'great outdoors' only to become more intimately acquainted with their neighbor than they would back in suburbia. It was basically tent city in there, complete with frustrations over finding a parking space.

But we were warm and comfortable, and as long as no one teased Little Miss C by making bear noises {she was a little paranoid after having the purpose of the bear locker explained to her} and we had a pleasant evening.

The next morning we went to see the upper and lower Yosemite Falls and the giant sequoia trees. I wanted to drive thru one the way I remember seeing in old movies, but apparently that one fell down back in the 60's {apparently sequoia roots are shallow and driving on them wasn't a good idea.}

We took pictures {L even took one of us-- I love his 3-year-old perspective} then had a picnic and hit the road once more. Someday when the kids are older, I'd like to go back and do some hiking, climbing and tubing. I could spend a week there, easily...

PS- When we first saw the amazing cliff faces, I couldn't help but start reciting lines from Star Trek V. J poked fun at my nerdiness, but then said he should have recorded it. "I'd post it on youtube and call it 'Hot Girl quotes Spock in Yosemite.' It'd totally go viral." Next time, babe. Next time.

It hardly feels like home.

2011-08-23T18:18:00.003-07:00

I'll get back to my travelogue tomorrow {there's still SO much to document!} but right now I have to take a moment to acknowledge how bitter-sweet it is to be home.

To be honest, I'm having a hard time of it. It's hot. J hates watching Midsomer Murders and Project Runway. My house seems huge, under-decorated and empty. I keep turning around, expecting to see my parents or one of my sisters-in-law. And it's HOT.

I established patterns, routines and inside jokes that now carry over into my Arizona life, but constantly remind me of the people I left behind. So suddenly, even a Gloworm is loaded with enough emotion and memories to make me teary-eyed! I find myself carrying on, making steel cut oats, shopping at Goodwill, and buying Dove ice cream bars, but it's as if an arm has been amputated. Something's missing. It's not the same.

But it's early days. We're slowly unpacking, tackling mountains of laundry and reacquainting ourselves with chore charts and task lists.

*sigh* And dreaming of our next family reunion.

Sacramento, California

2011-08-22T09:47:00.000-07:00

We left the coast and headed inland towards Sacramento. Jared was eager to tour the California Railway Museum, which is one of the largest and most well done museum of its kind.

After picking up a nasty cold while camping, I was eager to sleep in a soft bed, do some laundry and enjoy access to wifi.

Unfortunately, the next leg of our journey was a long haul to Yosemite, which meant J and the kids were literally running through the museum so we could hit the road at a decent hour.

They could have used an entire afternoon to read about exhibits, explore, and play with the model trains. But they made the best of it and we started driving once more....

Home

2011-08-20T22:00:00.004-07:00

We drove in just as the sun was setting. J says that even with all the sunsets he's watched all across the US this summer, an Arizona sunset never fails to make him smile.

It's nice to be home. After downtown Los Angeles, Arizona feels very clean and unpolluted, but after Washington and Oregon, it feels almost unbearably hot

We have lots of unpacking, cleaning and laundry to do, but I'm not ready for vacation to be over. I plan on soaking in the tub, watching movies and ignoring responsibilities for just one more day...

Redwoods

2011-08-20T21:56:00.004-07:00

Outside of Crescent City, we went camping in the Redwood National Forest. Just before dark, we went on a quick ride thru the giant trees.

Pictures really do no justice to the scale. It was like living in a scifi movie. When E found out that portions of Jurassic Park had been filmed there, he insisted on acting like a hunting Velociraptor.

Our little campsite was surrounded by massive tree stumps, verdant moss and lush ferns. We couldn't see anyone else around us and felt like we were in the middle of a remote island wilderness.

L discovered a huge spotted slug while we were cooking dinner over the fire. He kept expecting to find a few Ewoks in the bushes as well.

Baby R was content to play with sticks and logs. Anything was heaven compared to being strapped in a carseat!

This was our third night sleeping on the ground. The children didn't seem to mind, but J and I were positively bruised. I guess we're getting too old to skip the padding...

It was over far too quickly. We only stay in each spot for a single night, trying to cram as much sight-seeing and memory-making into our trip home as possible. This area was certainly a favorite.

Newport, Oregon

2011-08-16T11:45:00.004-07:00

On our Honeymoon twelve years ago, we stayed in a B&B right on the Newport shore {and took pictures in front of lighthouses!}.

So as we drove thru on way to our camping spot by the sand dunes, I had a fit of nostalgia and asked J to stop so we could eat at the same fish and chips place where we had dinner together all those years ago.

We had no recollection of the name of the place, just a vague memory of it being across the street from a large mural and my impression that it "felt like eating in a kitchen"

After mistakenly driving across the bridge, we found Old Town Newport and walked down main street until we found the famous Mo's Chowder House. It was across from the mural and had a line out the door, but it just didn't look right....

So we kept on walking until I spotted large windows and a checkered floor-- this was it!

Success! We had our meal, gazed lovingly into each others eyes, and marveled at how different the experience was with four cute-but-oft-times-fighting little ones in tow.

We'll have to visit again in another twelve years-- by then, we'll likely reminisce about having children small enough to split two kids meals, be entertained by the tank of live crabs, and be talked out of dessert by being told that they only serve fish-eyeball ice cream at seafood restaurants. :)

101 Coast

2011-08-15T22:52:00.002-07:00

When J and I were married twelve years ago, we spent our honeymoon driving down Highway 101 following the west coast shoreline. It was so scenic {and romantic, in an old-fashioned way} that we were eager to repeat the experience on our way home from Washington.

Except this time, we have four kids and a budget that hasn't grown with our waistlines, so we've been doing a lot of camping and having daily picnics on the beach.

It's been so beautiful. Washington and Oregon really don't get enough credit for their beaches.

Sure, the water is cold, but so is the water in California! I'm loving the soft sand, grey driftwood and hulking rocks jutting out of the surf.

Alas, there have also been a few reality checks. Twelve years ago, I learned that the scene in From Here To Eternity doesn't survive the transition to real life. This time I've learned that seaside picnics, while lovely and photogenic, also involve eating sandy food and searching for a place for your three-year-old to use the bathroom.

Still, it's been a once-in-a-lifetime trip. Um, or twice-in-lifetime, if you want to get technical. :)

Goodbye Hirrrry

2011-08-15T22:24:00.002-07:00

I ended up spending a fair amount of time with miss hAha while in Washington. She has a reserved nature that hides a wealth of creativity and thoughtfulness. I found myself enjoying her company immensely.

We had a Girl Day at Hot Toddy and both fell in love with the same perfect green skirt in the window.

Drooled over shoes {and decor} at Yolly Shoes, finishing up with a snack at Thai Palace {hAha's such a foodie!} and some thrift store shopping.

Our kids played in the park, museum, and Nana's house together.

And on one of our final days there, we had a last hurrah in Seattle, where we tried on and fell in love with the same Mad Men dress. {sensing a theme? I have to hurry and lose 10 pounds so we can share a wardrobe!}

Ate goodies at Pike Place...

And introduced the kids to flying fish and the golden pig.

That evening when we hugged goodbye, L cried all the way home because he wanted Hirrry, whom he'd fallen completely in love with.

Today, hAha and her dear SBug embark on their move to Motor City. I know it shouldn't feel like much of a difference to me from thousands of miles away, but I miss her already.

Good luck, brave girl. My brother married well. :)

Gig Harbor

2011-08-10T15:39:00.000-07:00

I purposely didn't tell the children when J would be coming home, so that when he arrived at the train station, I'd be able to pick him up and have some alone time before they swamped him with their love and affection. I found that I loved the idea of meeting in a train station-- like something out of a movie from the 1940's.

After 40 days {and nights!} away from each other, we were both eager for a reunion. As I made my way downtown, I nervously checked and re-checked my reflection. I had so many butterflies in my stomach! But all that evaporated when I saw him-- it was like when we first met. Being with him puts me at ease.

My parents generously agreed to watch the kids and J secretly booked us a bed & breakfast in Gig Harbor. We had a lovely room with doors that opened right up to a view of the water.

We walked to a restaurant for dinner and enjoyed the perfect weather while eating outdoors on the deck. It was gorgeous-- we could see a hint of Mt Rainier in the distance, the food was excellent, and I grinned at J so much that my face hurt.

In the morning, we ate breakfast in bed, then went kayaking. We had the harbor to ourselves, as most people were avoiding the fine, misty rain that had been falling since the early hours of the day.

We rowed out to the tiny lighthouse that stood at the mouth of the harbor and combed the beach for beach glass and seashells to take back to the kids. It was nastolgic to take a photo next to it-- our honeymoon was spent along the Pacific Coast Highway 101, and our albums are full of photos of us next to lighthouses. :)

After a hot shower {it was chilly out there!} we enjoyed seeing a movie in an actual theater-- something that is rare treat for us nowadays. Then we ate lunch and reluctantly headed home. It was a good thing we had four very excited faces to come home too, or we may never have left our little retreat.

Oh, Gig Harbor, I will forevermore have a soft spot in my heart for you!

He's home!

2011-08-06T18:07:00.002-07:00

And we couldn't be more thrilled. I have stories and pictures to help elaborate, but that will have to wait-- right now I can't get enough of my man. Happy weekend, everybody!

The Long Way Home

2011-08-03T09:51:00.000-07:00

J decided to take the train home. It's a four-day trip cross-country, but it's something he's always wanted to do. As eager as I am to see him, it's been fun recieving his daily updates on where he is and what he's seeing.

He started out from Penn Station in NYC.

The next day he was in Chicago, enjoying deep dish pizza and taking photos of the fabulous train station.

He had a few hours, so he went to the top of the Sears Tower.

This morning he sent photos of the sunrise from North Dakota.

We were worried about delays from flooding on the tracks, but the waters have receded and all looks well.

By this time tomorrow, I'll be standing on a train platform in lipstick and heels, waiting to kiss the man I haven't seen in forty long days!

Travel swift and safe, love!

Touch-a-Truck

2011-08-02T10:28:00.000-07:00

This trip has been different from those in the past, due in large part to the fact that I have the kids with me this time. For the last few years, I've flown to see my parents for a week or so by myself or with J. Mom and I spend hours talking, shopping and lazing about, pouring over design magazines and eating chocolate. I slip into the role of daughter, allowing myself to be taken care of and indulged, forgetting {briefly} my responsibilities as wife, mother and adult.

On trips where my parents come to visit me in Arizona, I tend to launch into hostess mode with zeal. I'm eager to provide comfort and entertainment, display my skills as wife and mother {"Look how much I've grown up!"} and give them all the pleasure and relaxation I feel they need-- even if invariably my dad ends up building or installing something for me around the house. {So relaxing for him, I'm sure.}

So it's been interesting to have those two types of trips collide and merge. On the one hand, I'm in my parents house, so I can't help but feel at ease as I'm cared and provided for. On the other, I'm hyper-aware of how loud and chaotic my children are and feel the need to keep them entertained and quiet in order to minimize the upheaval to my parents lives. But then I get a little resentful, because all that time and energy Nana and I spend on the kids? That's time that could have been spent on me, me, me!

All of this is a long-winded way of saying that as I sat down to post about the Touch-a-Truck event, part of me said, Blah blah blah, they were excited and cute but how come all my vacation pictures are of the kids? And then I had to laugh at myself, because I suddenly had a vision of myself stomping my foot and pouting the way E is wont to do. I suppose that my resistance to sharing my parents affections with my own children makes me a bit of an overly-entitled child myself.

So: we went to Touch-a-Truck. They got to climb into an Army helicopter, a fire engine, a garbage truck, a city bus, a tractor, a limousine, a Hummer and honk the horn of a semi-truck. They were excited and cute {just look at E's face in the helicopter photo!} and at the end of the day, they got free ice cream which L shared with Baby R.

Now, as I look at that ice-cream covered face, I hope that someday I'm a Nana and my kids are so in love with me that they don't even want to divide my time and adoration between themselves and their own children. Which means I'd better start being less selfish so they fall in love with me now. :)

Mad Men for Banana Republic

2011-08-01T08:01:00.000-07:00

How is it that I'm only now hearing about this? Banana Republic is releasing a Mad Men inspired collection this month and even though I'm sure it will be overly expensive, I'm dying to get my hands on quite a few items!

Chief among them is this coral and grey dress, though I have a feeling the LBD may prove to be infinitely useful and worth every penny...

I'm particularly excited about the men's accessories. Skinny ties! Hats! That hint of a striped vest under a suit coat! J would look amazing in all of it.

You may see the full collection at The Fashionista. Available in stores and online August 11th. {I wasn't paid or perked for this post, unfortunately. I just really love clothes.}

Park Day

2011-07-28T18:04:00.001-07:00

Lately, constantly having children underfoot has begun to drive us all a little crazy. Conversations with my mom, shopping with the girls, dreaming up projects around the house and generally lazing about has become much more difficult with four little ones demanding {more than}their fair share of attention.

To stave off cabin fever {and minimize the number of messes we have to clean up!} we follow a schedule {breakfast, chores, outside play, lunch, quiet time, clean up, dinner and bed} and make it a point to go someplace at least every other day. Yesterday, it was the park with cousin Finner. :)

Finn, a mere handful of months older than Baby R, stole the show with his happy running around, dexterous climbing of stairs, possessive clutching of chalk and hilarious attempts at holding three balls at once.

The change of scenery combined with the novelty of having an adorable new playmate did the trick-- the kids were rosy-cheeked and grinning by evening and we were able to swiftly whisk them off to bed.

As wonderful as the day at the park was, I have to admit that the hour or two after the children have fallen asleep was the best part of my day.

Little Worlds

2011-07-27T06:00:00.001-07:00

My mom has saved so many toys from when my brothers and I were young. The other day, E took all the Cowboys and Indians {full of holes from being pierced with needle 'arrows' and covered with remnants of painted 'blood'}and created his own forest amid Grandpa's corn.

I can totally remember being a kid and having that narrow focus that allows you to disappear into your own little world for hours at a time. As a child you're so intimate with your belongings. As I went through some of my old toys, I was amazed at my detailed recall of the textures, scents and even where each little ding or scar came from. It was such a nostalgic experience, I've become inspired to save some of my own kid's toys for my future grandchildren.

Boston Harbor

2011-07-26T09:00:00.002-07:00

Sometimes I forget that my children have grown up in the desert. Mountains, forests, and the ocean were all part of my childhood landscape, but for my kids they are strange and exotic discoveries.While the sun was shining {briefly} over the weekend, we took them to Boston Harbor to see the boats and play on the beach.

They scavenged along the shore, gathering driftwood, coils of rope and old pallets to construct a raft.

The water along the pier was full of jellyfish, and before we could stop him, E caught one. I'm amazed he wasn't stung. Either it wasn't a stinging variety or perhaps it was dead. Either way, he got off easy. {J was stung by a jellyfish in Mexico once, and still says it was the worst pain he's ever felt.}

E wanted to take home rusty chains, broken seashells, dead shrimp and crab pieces, and buckets of sand. He was successful where sand was concerned-- I was washing it out of his hair and clothes for days.

Boston Harbor is a perfect spot for small children. The beach is tiny and full of sand instead of rocks. The water is calm and mostly shallow.

We didn't bring swimsuits because I was convinced that the water {mostly snow and glacier run-off} would be entirely too cold for my Arizona kids. But all got soaked.

After a picnic lunch, we walked along the pier to admire the boats. L was in awe over a 'real' pirate ship, and all of the kids wished we could hop in and go for a sail around the harbor.

By late afternoon, we had to tempt them away with ice cream cones before going home and collapsing on sofas for sun-drugged naps. Nana and Grandpa are certainly giving them a summer to remember.

Sky High

2011-07-25T10:25:00.000-07:00

I bought two great dresses at a used store this week and as luck would have it, found a killer pair of nude peep-toe heels at Ross to complete the ensembles. At Church yesterday, haHa arrived wearing the same heels! If that isn't confirmation of my good taste, I don't know what is. {haHa is legend in my mind for her awesome wedding shoes.}Now, if I could just make myself grow out my hair, we might have a shot at being twinners...

{first image via}

Sunny day

2011-07-24T10:40:00.000-07:00

After a week of chilly, overcast weather, we finally had a bright and sunny day. We ushered the children out the door for an entire day spent in the fresh air.

I love my mom's striped picnic blanket. :)

The boys created a Lightning-McQueen inspired race track in the sandbox. They LOVE the sandbox, spending so much time in it that I've started to consider the logistics of building our own.

One thing to note, however-- lollypops and sandboxes don't mix.

Baby R joined in, complete with little "vrrrrom" noises. *sigh* I love Washington in the summer!

E's Glass House

2011-07-24T10:33:00.000-07:00

One of the exhibits at the Glass Museum involved children's drawings that were turned into three-dimensional glass sculptures. E was so inspired, he came home and drew his own masterpiece. According to him, it would be 100 feet tall and take 100 years to complete. :)

Tacoma Glass Museum

2011-07-22T23:14:00.001-07:00

On Thursday, the Tacoma Glass Museum was offering free admission after 5pm, so we packed up the kids, met with haHa and Finner and went to explore!

The huge, metal, cone-shaped building houses the hot room, which is where one can watch glass artists melt, shape and blow red-hot glass into all kinds of objects. While we were there, they were working on a Sea Turtle.

I think the structure itself is just as fascinating as what goes on inside of it. Isn't that vaulted ceiling beautiful?

Inside, the icy glass forest stole the show in the Glimmering Gone exhibit. This was the only photo I managed to get before I was told that no photography was allowed. :) It'd difficult to see, but the various textures and layers of glass created such an enchanting atmosphere. I especially loved the finely spun 'mist' near the back.

Outside, the children splashed amid the fountains...

... despite the crisp breeze that left us all feeling chilly.

Then we admired the boats...

... watched trains go by and fire trucks pull up-- at the same time! What a dream come true for E!

It was a long day, but one that left us all feeling satisfied and invigorated. I'm really loving all these free events that Mom keeps finding!

Moss and Loam

2011-07-21T15:44:00.000-07:00

Even though I grew up here in Washington, I've lived in the desert for so long that everything I used to take for granted is novel once more. The mountains, the architecture, the sea, the trees, and green green green everywhere I look.

I've been using my daily runs to explore the area, and this building keeps catching my eye. I love the moss that grows on every surface, the rust and lime and weathered wood window frames.

This morning I ran through a rain so fine it could only be described as a mist. Wild raspberry bushes lined the path, and if I ventured even a few feet away from the manicured residential areas, untamed overgrowth grew thick as a jungle.

It's easy to fall in love with everything in the summer. I have to remind myself that in the winter, it's so wet and cold that I'd likely be mildewing myself. But for now, I delight in every verdant detail, marvel in the breath that condenses the moment it escapes my mouth, and thrill at the smell of dark earth, moss and loam.

J's Adventures

2011-07-20T17:52:00.004-07:00

Every summer for the past few years, J has been hired to film Summer Camps back east for promotional and marketing purposes.

The camps are primarily in New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Connecticut, New Hampshire, and Maine. Usually, J gets at least one free day in NYC, for which I am always a bit envious.

We still have more than 2 weeks left until J joins us here in Washington, but he's been really good about sending us iPhone pics of all creative ways he's mounting cameras and filming. He jumped off the diving board with a waterproofed GoPro camera...

... Used the ladder of a fire truck as a crane...

... Mounted cameras to dirt bikes...

... and a radio-controlled helicopter...

And even spent some time in a cherry-picker. :)

Each camp is different and offers a view of lifestyles we've never imagined. Before, "Camp" was only something I saw kids in the movies do.

Now I know that there are Day Camps and Sleep-Away Camps; Relaxed, artistic camps and intensely competitive sports camps; Camps where kids are immersed in nature and camps where every minute of the day is scheduled. Last year, J even spent time at a camp that taught trapeze arts!

{With the children and I in Washington for the summer, it rather feels as though we've all 'gone to camp'!}

What about you? Did you go to camp as a child? Do you send your child to one?

Sick boy and some pictures

2011-07-19T19:12:00.002-07:00

Well, I finally bought an iPhone.

{Actually, I meant to buy an iPod Touch, but apparently I'm incredibly naive when it comes to purchasing electronics on craigslist. My new iPhone 4 is beautiful, does everything but make phone calls, and was had for such a low price it is most certainly "hot". Ah well.}

It's been rainy and gray here in Washington. It makes for lovely, long runs but is terrible for un-acclimated children. L has been deathly ill-- he didn't leave that chair for three days-- and now that he's on the mend, I'm determined to fatten him back up. {aren't his frail legs so sad looking?}

While I miss J terribly, it's been such an enjoyable vacation. Watching my parents with my children is one of my great joys.

The other day, I overheard my dad reprimanding E. {We don't put things in people's ears! That's just a rule!} His stern tone was so familiar, I instinctively cringed before realizing he wasn't talking to me. In fact, that tone hasn't been directed towards me in years..

Yes, it's official. I'm now an adult. :)

- Posted from my iPhone