Mayfly

We're back from a Spring Break roadtrip to Taos, NM with my parents. It's so much easier travelling with older children. There are no tantrums and few fights, and we're LOVING it.

Taos is beautiful in a "let it be" sort of way. Peeling paint, old adobe, rambling sage bushes. They don't seem to strive for perfection in the way that we midwesterners do with our McMansions and manicured green lawns. Plus there's art everywhere. It felt good there.

We spent lots of time outdoors- skiing and hiking, sitting in the hot tub, and rambling about town. The kids were rock-stars at the skiing. Seriously. We cooked most of our meals in the condo, but had a few nice meals out too. Old Martina's Hall was our favorite- beautiful rehabbed building and amazing food. The toy store in town was adorable.

There was yet another snow storm here while we were gone. It's melted now. And we're back into the groove again at home. I'm getting ready for the upcoming shop weekend, Brian is working on the bathroom, and the kids are enjoying just a little bit of warmer weather.

Happy Easter, friends!

Posted by Alicia at 3:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

We've got a lot going on here- here are the highlights:

It's a First Friday weekend! See the little painted table and chairs up above? Brocante Bliss - 1222 W. 12th Street. Visit the Brocante Bliss facebook page for details.

The kids both had birthdays. 12 and 8. There was a sleepover, a family party, and a luau with 13 little ladies. I'm going to show you the luau cake tomorrow.

Someone got a cell phone. (NOT an iphone. The kid is NOT getting an iphone before I do. I forbid it.)

Brian decided it was time to (finally) remodel our upstairs bathroom, so he ripped out much of it Sunday. There's all kinds of messy going on in there as we figure out how to do this on the cheap, but nice. I don't want to sacrifice the nice. We're all going to be sharing one bathroom for awhile, but it will be worth it... it will be worth it... it will be worth it... right?

We're planning a couple of vacations. Good places with family. And trying to figure out when we can squeeze a little camping trip in too.

J is playing on a tournament baseball team this Spring/Summer. It's pretty low key, but it means several weekends will be occupied with baseball.

The weather has been crazy (Monday- balmy 75 degrees. Tues- dropping temps and rain. Today- blowing snow. Thurs- frigid cold.)

Well, I'll be working Friday and Sunday this weekend- come down and see if you'd like!

xo.

Posted by Alicia at 1:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

I'm having trouble with the blogging. Yes, I'm busy lately, but also, I just don't want to do it. One of the reasons that I've been having a hard time with the internet world I used to love is that it's unrealistic. And hard to live up to. And somewhat elitist. So in my own little attempt to keep it real, here goes:

I don't think I've ever seen a Woody Allen movie. I've watched the Hangover about 20 times.

I like listening to pop music with N. It makes me feel peppy.

I don't know if this shop thing is going to be worth it. Two months in and I'm leaning towards no. (Sigh.) It's great fun, don't get me wrong! But it's an awful lot of work for very. little. return. And by return, I mean money.

I haven't been feeling all that well lately. I'm pretty sure it's a lack of exercise. I have never been a fitness-y kind of gal, but this is possibly the laziest (exercise-wise) I've ever felt in my life. I need to change that. NOW.

I drastically reduced my feed subscriptions and flickr contacts this morning. It was time.

I haven't been sticking with my headache diet AT ALL lately and I can really tell. I need to try harder.

I haven't taken a film photo in over a year? Really? I bet that's right.

I hate those competition shows like American Idol and The Voice. SO boring.

But I secretly love watching that terrible Kardashian show. I justify it by saying that they are a tight-knit family and all work really hard. Well, except for Rob...

I am a judgmental person. My one resolution for this year is to try to be more empathetic and understanding.

I get really jealous of STUFF. I try not to, but I do. Everyone I know has an iPhone and/or an iPad. And we don't. And their kids are decked out in NorthFace this or that. And they drive nice cars- the kind that don't break down while driving in Western Kansas. And they go on all kinds of fancy trips. For us there's always more pressing stuff to spend money on. You know, like groceries. Deep down I know I'm silly to feel bad. How on earth will I teach my children that stuff is not that important, if it bothers me so much?! My strategy so far is I just try to hide it.

I eat pretty well- lots of fruits and veggies. But I also eat WAY too much butter. And I have NO willpower when it comes to carbs.

We primarily shop at Walmart grocery store. GASP!

I loved the Twilight books. I held off reading them forever, but then when I started I couldn't put them down for like two weeks straight and then finally, I emerged to clean up the house and cook dinner. Also, this series. Entertaining sci-fi smut. But I was OBSESSED.

So there. I hope I can think of something to come back here and talk about soon.

Posted by Alicia at 12:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (28)

(Just a few photos I like together.)

Hello!

Summer has ended, officially even. School started long before that, and the kids have accepted the routine pretty gracefully.

On our vacation to Colorado this summer, we listened to a young man talk about his life of guiding river rafters there six months of the year and then in New Zealand the other six. I thought about how buttoned up our life is. Back in my teen years I imagined myself in California becoming a surfer girl by day, my husband waiting for me in the Volkswagen Vanagon to go off hiking in the mountains in the evening. Have I ever surfed a day in my life? No. I've never even been to California. For a moment I was sad for what wasn't. But as soon as it came, that thought passed. What we have is so much better (for us), and it IS oh-so buttoned up. These children of ours thrive on our boring and stable life. They seem happy, and so are we.

There is always talk in this crafty/mommy blogging world of rhythm and connection, living mindfully and fully in the moment. As my kids get older I find for me these words are impossible to live up to. Life is busy. It does simplify things to say NO to a lot, and we try. But we also have to say YES a lot too. YES means schlepping to baseball and gymnastics and Junior Master Gardeners, friends' houses and birthday parties. We still eat dinner together, but it may be early or late, or even (gasp!) in the car. Life changes, and it's okay.

Of course it's silly to be wishing for the next activity, day, season, phase of life. But it happens- especially when today was crappy. Living in the past is stupid too. That's common sense. We must wade through the crappy days and the happy ones. It's important to soak up the laughter and tickling fights, because soon enough they will turn into tears. And as my husband says, never say no to a game of catch or a push on the swing, because soon enough they won't ask anymore.

But looking ahead is a necessary part of life. We have to prepare ourselves and our kids for the future. That's our job as parents. We have to work and find a way to save money because these kids will want to go to college. And looking back is just as inevitable. Memories are one of the sweetest things we have as humans. I was picking through some old photos and was marveling at my kids' bald baby heads and round toddler cheeks. They looked like different people then, people I used to know but don't anymore. Seeing those faces takes me right back, and I'm so glad to go once in awhile.

So really where am I going with all of this? I don't know. Nowhere really. I'm just popping in to explain why I don't have the time to pop in more. I don't have time to visit all the blogs I use to, and even when I do, I often don't relate as well. I miss my old blogging friends. I miss taking photos just for fun. But life is busy. We're busy doing our best as parents and humans and for now, we are good.

Posted by Alicia at 8:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)

Are you a crocheter? I am not. But I'm trying! I've decided to try Blair's Granny Square Sampler Afghan this summer. Blair is such a great organizer and cheerleader. I think it will be great fun, we'll end up with a gorgeous blanket!

I had a tiny bit of the wrong kind of yarn on hand, so I gave a couple of squares a try. I ordered some new stuff (from here), and it arrived while we were off camping. Blair posts a new assignment each Friday. I'm working to catch up now, but we have a house full of out-of-town family, so it may take a little time. There's no pressure- I've got all summer and a lot of swim team practice to get caught up.

Posted by Alicia at 3:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

...or as N said, "Wanka, wanka!"

We went to the Wakarusa Music Festival at Mulberry Mountain, Arkansas, and yes, we took the kids with us. And although the weather was weird the whole time, it was really great fun. Here are our observations:

•The children LOVED. IT.
•Hippies are pretty dirty- thus the nickname dirty hippies. (I'm just being honest, I'm sorry.)
•We are a little bit hippyish ourselves, so we do not find dirty offensive. But we do love a nice hot shower.
•Just as expected, the people watching was stellar.
•Many hippies with children do not supervise their children. At. All. (just saying.)
•We had long talks about over-drinking and grown-up language, but really with so much action and fresh air and wind and music, it all went right over their heads.
•We skipped the drug-use discussion all together, which was fine. (again, over their heads.)
•The camping was too tight and crowded and loud even in the "family section" to be enjoyable. After two nights, we packed up and moved to a beautiful, nearby, little national park campground on the river with a nice swimming hole.
•The music was great. Really wonderful. All types.
•The Avett Brothers are AMAZING. They're even better live than I imagined.
•The Ozark Mountains are always gorgeous, but storms come on hot and heavy. And fast.

The kids are already talking about going back next year. We'll just have to wait and see if my Avett Brothers return...

Posted by Alicia at 3:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

Posted by Alicia at 11:17 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Well hello there! I hope you're having a good day.

About a month ago, it popped into my head that we'd had a pretty healthy school year so far. And then I cringed. Did I jinx it?! Surely you know where this is headed. I promptly got the stomach flu, and then we all got a cold which we passed on to Maw Maw (aka Brian's mom.) And then Brian got the stomach flu. Then I got another cold? I don't know. I felt better for several days and then backslid.

But now, I'm vowing to get over it. I read somewhere you should eat extra protein when trying to fight an infection. I don't really think I have an infection, but it was a nice excuse this morning for a couple of eggs instead of my usual granola or steel cut oatmeal. And I'm going to have a green smoothy at lunch.

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I'm in a creative slump. Big time. I'm not the only one.

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See that knitting back there? I've been working on it for years. Seriously. I knit for several days and then take months off. I'm going to unravel it, start over on something quick and easy. A really plain scarf perhaps on great big needles? Maybe if there's some faster gratification, I'll stick with it longer and really learn. BUT I can't remember how to cast on. I'm looking for advice. I did a quick youtube search and a bajillion knitting videos came up. Any recommendations? Or a book? Would I be better off with a book?

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I'm getting a haircut tomorrow. And I'm going shorter. I think. Here's my Pinterest collection of cute cuts that have inspired me! Whatcha think?

(What's up with Pinterest? Crazy slow this morning.)

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The weather has been almost spring-like here nearly all winter. I'm not complaining, but it has been odd. I have a big family photoshoot this weekend, and wouldn't you know it. Cold. And possibly rainy. Phooey.

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It's almost Valentine's Day! You should buy this print for a friend. Or this scarf. Or BOTH!

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I'm still over at Flickr, with my 366 (it's like blogging lite) project. Visit me there.

Take good care!

Posted by Alicia at 10:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)

I'm taking part in a 366 project this year: a photo a day all year long. It feels a little like old times. I'm trying to make a few notes about the day or photo on each as well. If you'd like to see them, visit me over at Flickr.

We're all well. I hope your new year has started smoothly.

xo.

Posted by Alicia at 11:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

My sweetie took a vacation day yesterday. After we wrangled the kids off to school, I made him a bowl of steel cut oats with apples and cinnamon.

But this morning I ate pie for breakfast. It was Bumbleberry from here- a little pie shop in downtown Overland Park. Possible the best piece of pie I've ever eaten. (Sorry, Dad!) Go there today.

Posted by Alicia at 9:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)

... here it comes.

Are you ready? I feel ready.

The kids in our extended family are growing up, and really, they just want money or a gift card to help them with that next big thing they're saving for. So there's just not much shopping to do. (Hallelujah.)

I've already started on some handmade gifts. I'll flickr them if you're at all interested.
Are you?
Is anyone even still reading here?
Hello?
I'll pretend that you're still there.

(Crickets.)

Anyway... where was I? Shopping's nearly done. Hot cocoa is at the ready. Our little advent socks are up, although #24 has mysteriously vanished. Some simple holiday activities are underway. We're getting our tree tomorrow too.

Tonight was cozy. It's rainy, and we discovered Words with Friends, and we all (my mom at her house, my sister and niece at theirs, Brian, J, and I- with N as my helper- here at home) played each other on our iPods and phones. This could be a problem. A big problem.

I'm really going to try to be here a little more this month. I don't know why- or what I'll write about even. But I miss it. Will you stop in and say 'hello' once in awhile?

(Crickets.)

Yawn. Okay then. Nighty night.

Posted by Alicia at 10:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (23)

The girl-child has wholeheartedly embraced knee socks, which I love. But daddy doesn't. I think it makes him think of this.

The ladies at habit have opened the flickr group again. What do your days look like lately?

Did you see Rachel's makeup for Halloween? Um, wow.

On repeat: Falling Through, Darkness Between the Fireflies, Naked as We Came, Blame the Vain, Chinese Translation, A Girl in the War, Winter Birds (crushing on Ray big time).

I have so many of Tara's photographs in my flickr favorites. She just has it going on.

I think I'm going to make a flan tonight. I've been thinking about it for days.

Heather's journal moved.

Happy Wednesday.

Posted by Alicia at 9:38 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)

Hey. What's up?

These are a couple of critters we've seen in our yard lately. My kids always insist I take photos. : )

This has nothing to do with wildlife, but I recently read Blood, Bones, and Butter. I loved it. LOVED it. I also just finished The Host. It was addictive, soap-opera-ish fluff, but it got me thinking, so that's good.

What shall I read next? Any suggestions?

Posted by Alicia at 1:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

Posted by Alicia at 9:33 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I had a girls' weekend away with some of my besties at a sweet little lake house that belongs to my friend's mom. It's sandwiched between a perfectly tiny lake, Legge Lake- hence the legs, and a river. We took one short boat ride, and then the cool, damp weather kept us inside the rest of the time. We flopped around on big pillows by the roaring fire watching Sixteen Candles and eating too many snacks. Jake Ryan, you handsome devil, where have you gone? Apparently to Pennsylvania to make furniture. Sigh. Love that.

A few (too many?!) beers and glasses of wine (and something resembling an adult cherry limeade) were consumed which in turn produced much laughing, dancing, old story telling, and other such merriment.

It was really, really fun. It's good to have these sorts of friends. And then Sunday, feeling all thankful, I came home to read this. So...

Girls? Are you reading?
I love you guys.

Posted by Alicia at 10:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)

I took both of these photos just before dinner, and then noticed they were color coordinated.

While I cut up the squash for breading and frying (our favorite way to eat squash) she sat on the couch and tried out her brother's new trombone. She swore she played a little bit of the National Anthem.

Her brother told her not to puff out her cheeks. "That's bad form," he said.

Posted by Alicia at 11:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

But I'll tell you about it anyway, just so I have something to post about.

Around here we set the table for the four of us the same way each time. Two big plates and two small plates. Two big forks, two small. And even though the kids often eat just as large a portion as we adults do, they still prefer it that way.

I've been so busy. I had a mural job for a client whose playroom I painted several years ago. I did three kids' rooms in her new house and had a great time working during the day like a normal person! I am very excited about drumming up some more mural business now.

Family photo shoot season has indeed begun, which means I am spending a lot more time sitting at the computer editing photos. I have discovered Spotify and it's genious.

The weather has cooled off. Today I wore jeans. I was happy and sad about it. This morning was also the first time I've wanted a hot beverage in quite awhile. Actually, I might go make a cup of rooibos right now.

Sometimes I really miss coffee.

We went our friends' wedding in Lawrence Saturday night, and I learned a few things:
I am happy that there are people like these friends in this world. Look at this cake.
N is a dancing fool. And loves cake.
J is self-conscious when he dances.
But he looks handsome in a tie.
Cucumber gin rickeys sound odd, but taste amazing.

J is singing in his school choir. He has also decided to try out playing the trombone in the band. The choice has me giggling a little- it's a big instrument for a such a small guy. But really, I'm excited for him. I hope he likes it.

I can't stop singing "seventy-six trombones in the big parade..." in my head.

I got an email about student council at the kids' school. I asked N if she'd like to do it. She said, "Sure!" (silence) "What's student council?"

She's had a serious fear of bitewing x-rays at the dentist. But today she overcame it and did it. So to celebrate, we went to the Target dollar section and bought cheap, packaged cotton candy. Good mom, huh?

Our dog Jerry is a serious runner-awayer. I mean the second he's off the leash or loose he takes off. And FAST! But we took him hiking this weekend bravely let him off leash. He stayed right by our sides. It was so nice.

Well, I'll stop. I could go on forever with worthless little tidbits.

Take good care,
A

Posted by Alicia at 9:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (9)

A weekly wall calendar for the kids.

They have a hard time remembering which days they need to wear tennis shoes for p.e. and which days they have soccer. I hung it in the breakfast room, so each morning they can look up while they're eating breakfast to see what the day holds.

Inspired by this one and this one, I made this much simpler (and easy) version.

Well, easy except for the little wooden letters. I cut them out of balsa wood with my exacto knife. My finger tips may never be the same.

Posted by Alicia at 10:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (9)

Well...

School started Monday and today is the first day that both of my babies will be away all day long. I can't deny I'm having mixed emotions; I waffle between sheer joy and aching sadness.

I am hoping I can find some ways to grow my little business, so that I can keep working from home a few more years. On my list: it's almost time for family photo season. That will keep me busy for awhile. Next, advertising. Real (but cheap) advertising. Ideas? And re-opening my etsy shop. I really want to make that happen too. Cuff bracelets, anyone?

First things first, though. This old mom and young dog need a brisk head-clearing walk.

Happy Wednesday to you!

Posted by Alicia at 8:39 AM | Permalink | Comments (10)

Last night Heather and I (+ families) had a little going away dinner for Rachel and David and the girls. It was bittersweet, but I held it together pretty well until the very end when it was late and dark and we were all hugging goodnight (+ farewell for now), and then the lump in my throat got the best of me.

All that's left today is a dishwasher to unload and wax-drippy candles. And that lump in my throat, it's still there.

They are a good family full of great people and I wish them only the best. (+ I'm already planning a trip to Houston/Galveston for spring break next year.)

Posted by Alicia at 11:18 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)

Summer vacation has officially begun. And I plan on being around here a lot more.

I miss you. And this lil ole website.

See you soon.

xo,
Alicia

Posted by Alicia at 11:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)

I've been plagued with brutal headaches all week. I thought the problem was all the chocolate I sneaked from the kids' Easter baskets, but they persist even days after I stopped. Hmmmm.

But end-of-the-week strawberry milkshakes are a good cure for pretty much everything. (Milk, strawberries, vanilla ice cream) Yum! This weekend I'm looking forward to:

• getting back to the shred (the headaches kept me away the last three days)
• a girls' night on a friend's patio this evening
• a long hike and a picnic with a lively group of 6 yr old girls
• a soccer game
• a 40th birthday party
• a couple of long walks with the dog
• testing out the newly repaired (again) sewing machine!

Have a great weekend, friends!

Posted by Alicia at 5:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)

Flowers are blooming.
Buds are budding.
Our park is hopping.

The dog barks at the door presumably to go potty,
then is found sitting still in the grass face turned towards the sun, eyes closed.

Alfermans are hiking and chasing and pedaling,
leaving bikes and scooters and balls strewn across the yard.

Friends are calling with grills warming.
Burgers are patted out and salads are tossed
and conversations on the back patio last for hours.

Kids are playing ghost in the graveyard and capture the flag
(or capture your sister's sandal when a flag is hard to come by.)

Shoes and knees and elbows are muddy,
and showers before bed are a necessity.

Kids are going to school with highly encouraged cases of
Spring Fever.

There will be more cold days and rainy days and even some snow flurries?
But for now we taste a little warmth
And decide (again) we've never been happier that Spring has arrived.

Posted by Alicia at 10:13 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)

Hello, friends! I came and said I'd be here a little more, and then I up and disappeared again! Sorry. We've been hanging out at home. I had a bad cold last week (so did Brian) that sapped all of my energy. Staying upright was a feat in itself. And now poor N has the cold but is recovering more quickly than I did. It's pretty much the first time any of us have been sick since before Thanksgiving; it's been a nice, healthy winter for us.

:: knock on wood ::

I've been working on my VQB quilt. Remember that? I know- so long ago. I was short a few squares, so I made a couple more myself and assembled the top. It's all sandwiched up and ready to quilt, but my sewing machine is acting up. Again. I'll try to limp through it and get it quilted this weekend, so I can take the machine in on Monday. While I'm hand sewing the binding next week, I plan to watch Downton Abbey. All my internet buddies are raving- gotta see what the fuss is about.

So... all I'm really saying is that I'm hoping to finish a quilt in the next few days. I'll share it soon.

Happy Weekend!

Posted by Alicia at 12:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)

Back in early January some very special friends came to town for a visit. It was the weekend of Heather's book signing. I knew we would all get along just fine, and we did. It was a most wonderful way to start the new year.

(photo by Rachel Saldana)

I've known these women for several years- through their websites and their photos, the beautiful things they create, the inspiring projects they work on- but we had never met in person. So many times during the weekend we would be talking or eating, or looking at artwork, or taking photos of each other taking photos, and we would burst with laughter, tears in our eyes, like old friends, old friends who have known each other for years. Because, really, we are. And we have.

(photo by Rachel Saldana)

We lounged around. We ate Rachel's stew. We thrifted. We talked art, architecture, families, cameras. We went out to eat. We went to the opening and were thrilled for Heather and Rachel to sign our books. We meandered at the Nelson. We hugged and said goodbye and had tears in our eyes again.

I was afraid going into the weekend that it would pass too quickly (and of course it did) but I was also keenly aware the entire time just how wonderful it was that we were really together and that I was having a great time.

I had to type this up before I get back to writing about what I'm working on or things my family has been up to. I wanted this for my own memory and also as a thank-you card to these ladies. Thank you, Martha. Thank you, Erin. Thank you, Emily. Thank you for making this happen. I am lucky to count you as friends, and I can't wait to see you all again!

Posted by Alicia at 1:16 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)

Good morning! How have you been? It's a cold and sunny day here, but the I've heard rumor of 50 degrees for the weekend. My fabric waits patiently. I've been working on a quilt but had to take my sewing machine in for repair, thank goodness, while still under warranty.

I think I'm ready to come back here once in awhile. I've written some ideas for posts into my little notebook, and hopefully I'm not too rusty to peck them out. I've been feeling pretty good this month (I fully admit I am usually Mean and Crabby in February). The key has been to keep busy. Busy with visitors, birthdays, parties, school events and more.

I'll be back soon with some details about some very special visitors. I feel like I can't talk about anything else until I get to that.

Have a great Thursday!

Posted by Alicia at 8:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (9)

Hi there. It's been awhile, huh?

I've been pondering why that is. I've been making stuff and doing fun things and cooking and celebrating the holidays, but I just can't get the oomph to post about any of it here. And honestly, I've taken so many family photos this year (I'm not complaining- no way! It's been great.) that I'm not quite as interested in taking photos just for fun. Wait. That's not completely true. I'd love to take tons of film photos. But it's too expensive. Every time I go drop $20 at the processing place, it makes me feel guilty. And guilt feels like a waste of energy. I do like to visit with everyone over at Flickr often, but that seems different. I call it blogging lite- lots of photos, less words, no pressure.

So here's what I'm thinking: I don't want to give up this blog completely. I think I just need a break. A good long break. I'm going to give myself permission to not come up with anything clever or crafty or exciting to say here for awhile- not that I have been anyway. I may come back in February. Maybe. We'll see how it goes.

So, HAPPY HOLIDAYS, everyone! I hope you're enjoying every minute.

(Come over here and say 'hi' once in awhile, ok?)

xo.

Posted by Alicia at 7:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (10)

Good morning! The dog and I are getting ready to go out for our morning constitutional, but I thought I'd pop in and say hello. I'm much more caught up with work stuff, so now maybe I can start a few fun projects. I have two little birthday gifts to stitch up. (I think I'll be forever known as the aunt who made cool but late birthday gifts.) I have some plaid to make myself a scarf, and a couple of clothing patterns to ponder. I also have a quilt to piece and two birdie paintings to start for a swap.

When I type it out it seems like an awful lot to do. So what am I sitting here at the computer for?! I better get crackin'.

Wait. First things first. Our walk. Bye- see you later!

Posted by Alicia at 8:29 AM | Permalink | Comments (8)

The Habitat for Humanity Kansas City ReStore opened its second location this morning! Brian (my sweetie), Don and the gang have been working their tails off for quite awhile to get it ready, and it looks good. Really, really good. This location will be selling (and accepting) gently used furniture along with the usual building supplies and materials. Local friends- go check it out! It's in Waldo, on 79th Street, one block east of Wornall.

Breakfast this morning was catered by a gorgeous mother/daughter duo (ahem. my mom and me), and we stuck around to witness the crowd pouring in. It was exciting. I'm taking the kids over after school for the ribbon cutting ceremony and so they can give their daddy a giant hug. He deserves it. They all do.

Way to go, guys!

Posted by Alicia at 12:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (11)

and the signs were all around.

the corn has been harvested.

the tobacco is hanging to dry.

the hay has been baled.

and we filled our bellies with the most heavenly apple dumplings.

now it's fall.

xo.

Posted by Alicia at 7:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)

I love playing with film; this roll was much cheaper than the summer one, so I wasn't nearly as stingy. There were some pleasant surprises and some not so, but I was still happy. When I'm looking through a stack of photos, I often find myself automatically grouping the pictures by color or composition, sort of in the same way I sometimes find myself unconsciously counting stairs as I go up a long flight. What does that say about me and my brain? I'm a little ocd? Probably.

Our weekend was full and fun, although I did have a cold. (It's already much better.) We had quick house guests, and the kids had two separate sleep-overs. It's wonderful to start the week with a clean house. This week feels slower and easier already. As I was pondering what to make for dinner tonight, my mom called and invited us for chicken and noodles. Score. I'm going to offer up an apple crisp. I think tomorrow I'll make pear butter. I made it a few years ago and it was really yummy. I need to hunt up that recipe.

I hope you've got some good stuff in store this week too. Happy Monday!

Posted by Alicia at 11:52 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)

Hello. Hello from Kansas City on the evening of the first day of fall where it still feels like summer. I'm just going to pretend I don't notice and enjoy what the season has to offer. Meanwhile maybe fall will sneak up on me and I won't even realize I'm not faking it any more. That's the last you'll hear of it from me. : )

We picked apples at Red Barn Farm recently with good friends and it was such a nice day. We came back here for a dinner of chili dogs and fruit and cold beers and a cookie cake and a fire outside. I'm glad I took film photographs that day. The graininess and that little something that makes film so timeless- they are making the memory even sweeter.

Well, good night and have a good day tomorrow!

Posted by Alicia at 9:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)

Tomorrow is the first day of Fall? Are we sure about that? I love this time of year, but I am not feeling it. Everything seems to be going according to schedule: the kids are settled into school (first quarter progress reports are in), we picked apples (in shorts and t-shirts), they've decided what they want to be for Halloween (a soldier and Dorothy), there are pumpkins and gourds covering the grocery stores' front sidewalks. I get it. I know what the calendar says.

But the weather is telling me something completely different. It's 90 degrees and humid. N asked to go to the pool yesterday. I've only worn jeans once or twice. After walking the dog this morning, you could have wrung me out. I turned the a/c back on the other day for Pete's sake! What I'd like to be doing is making soup and baking cinnamon bread- feeling that tug back into the kitchen. There are pears for pear butter. There are comforters ready for swapping out. I want to cheer for my little soccer players on a cool Saturday morning. Grab a sweater for a walk around the park in the evening.

I'm in no hurry for Winter. No sir. But Fall is still coming, right? We won't skip over it all together, will we?!

Maybe I should just play dumb and start getting things ready anyway. It'll be hard, though.

Posted by Alicia at 1:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)

It was one of those days.

A little too rushed.
A trip to the dentist.
A little whining.
A dog with a belly ache.
Where is my backpack, mom?
An expensive back pack full of soccer gear gone missing.
A fuming mad mom.
Late, late, late to soccer practice.
An overheard conversation: the coach, stern words, too many excuses from the player (my player).
Mom gets even more angry.
Dad makes a quick dinner.
More whining.
Dad lectures.
Dog does NOT want to go in the kennel again.
A long drive to a lost and found.
The dog goes for along for the ride.
The door is locked.
A wait for the key.

Backpack found.
Gear retrieved.

The mood lifts. A little time on the playground. Dad stops lecturing. Mom apologizes. The boy jokes. He smiles. He promises to work harder at the next practice and keep better track of his stuff. A beautiful sunset. A discussion about sun rays. and cameras.

A few minutes to spare before bedtime.
The dog gets his walk.

(and the photos are unrelated to any of it. Nighty-night.)

Posted by Alicia at 11:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (13)

Hello there. Brian and I are having a little bit of a hard time today. Food poisoning, maybe? We're not sure. Whatever it is, we've both had exactly the same intense but short-lived stomach bug on exactly the same time frame. Knock on wood, so far the kids are fine.

So, I'm going to let any stragglers enter today for the leather cuff bracelet. I'll be back tomorrow with the winner, and for the rest of you, the (very easy) directions for making one yourself, since lots of you asked so nicely.

: )

See you tomorrow!

Posted by Alicia at 3:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)

When I saw Hannah's leather bracelet in this photo, I wanted one. I figured I could make one, but the end of the summer was just too full for frivolous accessory making. So this morning I headed to the thrift store for a couple of nicely worn leather belts and to Hobby Lobby for a snap kit (hello, 40% off coupon) and lickity-split I've got a leather cuff factory going on over here.

So it turns out a waist is much bigger than a wrist. Do you want one too? If you leave me a comment on this post, I'll pick a name on Wednesday (8/25) and send you one. I'll even make it custom for your wrist size. OK? OK.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The other thing I want is my friend Heather Smith Jones's book. Have you pre-ordered your copy? I have. This woman has been pouring her heart into this project for a year, and I'm guessing it will be nothing short of amazing, especially since my other friend Rachel Saldana took all the photos. I. cannot. wait.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .


I feel a storm of making stuff rumbling around now that I've actually got a few minutes of quiet time to think. I hope it pans out, because it is long overdue.

Posted by Alicia at 4:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (86)

We went to the lake last weekend with good friends, and it was a nice, little mini vacation. We returned Sunday ready to take on this week: Back to School.

Back soon. xo.

Posted by Alicia at 10:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

It always seems this time of year there's just so much. So much of everything.

Kitchen counters fill with squash. Cucumbers stack up. The farmers market is bursting at the seams with food and people. Mom makes jars of pickles. I repay her with homemade blueberry jelly. Picking peaches and freezing tomatoes. Even the grocery stores are selling off produce cheap.

The last of the summer activities overlap with the start of the fall ones. We squeeze in a few more trips to the pool but soccer practice starts. We take one last weekend to the lake right after we buy school supplies. Calls are made to friends to see who has which teacher. End of the summer pool parties. Last minute sleep-overs.

I love summer and hate to see it go. But fall is exciting, full of fresh possibilities. It's enough to make an already-sentimental girl melt into a puddle. A tired and thankful puddle.

Posted by Alicia at 9:55 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)

I have discovered the secret to successful vacation prep: leave the second day Brian is off. That way he is around to help load the car and run errands and corral kids and tidy the house. I spent most of my day leisurely catching up on laundry and packing the suitcases. Also noted: it pays to be the closest family to the lake of choice. We were sent home with a cooler packed solid with tasty left-overs!

So, we came back home to a clean house (what a good feeling.) and after about an hour's worth of unpacking and starting of the laundry, we were out back on the patio, eating said left-overs, lounging around, making smores over a fire.

Oh, yeah...

Posted by Alicia at 10:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)

Well.

I kind of fizzled out there on Color Week. Dang.

But I am going to join in on the habit party this month- when we're not vacationing. : )

Our good friend Scott and my sweetie channeled their inner lumberjacks this morning and tackled a crazy-hard job we've been pondering for years. With minor incidents only. I'm glad it's done, and even more glad they didn't get hurt.

And that's just one limb that had to come down. The rest of the tree is fine. Huge but fine.

Posted by Alicia at 8:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)

N's day camp at her preschool was last week. J's soccer camp and tryouts are over. We've already gotten an excellent camping weekend and several patio/driveway get-togethers under our belts. And now we're looking at our first few really free, unstructured weeks of summer. Hooray!

I've assigned each kid a few little chores to complete every morning before they turn on any sort of screen or head outside. I'm making a list of things they might like to do and outings they'd like to take (like Martha made for her boys).

Inspired by my mom's neighbor, N and I started a little fairy garden in an old cracked birdbath top today. We'll show you the results at Cindy's Craft Camp later this month. She's collecting a month's worth of great easy crafts to keep the kids busy. I'm already planning several of them for my munchkins.

And of course there are many unplanned delights to discover. Tonight we made happy hour milkshakes. Heck yeah! It's summer time, baby!

Posted by Alicia at 5:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

Summer vacation has begun. In all reality, we've been in summer mode for about a week. The last few days of school were only a technicality. To firm this up we've been doing all sorts of summer activities: grilling dinner, working and gardening into the evening, spending time with friends, picking berries, eating ice cream cones (to celebrate an excellent report card!), driving around with the windows down and music blaring. You know, important stuff like that.

And tonight the boys have a baseball game. There's nothing quite like watching the sun sink over the outfield wall, and as the warm sunlight fades, the tall lights buzz and flood the fields with a cool blue glow. Oh, stop. Quit rolling your eyes at that sentence. It is that good, and I am not being over-dramatic. (If you're in a baseball family, you know exactly what I mean.)

Anyway...

I hope you have a wonderful weekend! Ours is packed full of more perfectly summery activities.

Posted by Alicia at 4:58 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)

More rain. Ugh.

(click the photo to see it larger.)

Took a long, leisurely trip to the grocery store(s) with N today. Whole Foods makes me feel good. I like to walk around, knowing all those people- shopping and working- think quality food is really important. I wish I could get all our groceries there, but it's just too expensive.

I made shrimp and brown rice enchiladas this evening for dinner. I winged the recipe, but wrote most of it down just in case they were good. And they were good. They're even headache approved. I'll post the recipe soon.

I'm dreaming of strawberry shortcakes and trying to figure out when to go. It's a long drive.

The rabbit nest was too exposed right in the middle of our neighbors yard. J was so sad this morning when he thought she had abandoned two wee bunnies. They were soaking wet and shivering all alone. And now they're gone. We've nearly convinced him she moved them all to a better nest. Now if only we could convince ourselves.

I have a busy day tomorrow involving 70-some third graders, a school bus, and lots of historical Kansas City locations. The weather forecast looks much better, thank goodness. It actually looks quite grand into the weekend too. Woo hoo!

Posted by Alicia at 9:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)

(click on the image to view it larger)

Heather has been putting together diptychs this week, and I thought I'd join her. Getting this one ready just now makes me realize how much I miss the Noticing Project.

Spring (especially since sun came back out today) is slipping into summer at breakneck speed as it always does here in the middle of the country. N is already on summer vacation. It's J's last full week of school, but she's already informed them they're done with homework. Lucky devil. Remember how fun and free those last few days before break felt?!

In the last couple of days, I repainted the kitchen- white with a very light tan color wash. I was tired of the yellow. Now I need to find about ten yards of fabulous yet extremely affordable fabric to make cushion covers for a little danish couch we moved into the breakfast room.

We went to the zoo with a few of N's little friends today. The weather was perfect. She rode the carousel. We had a picnic. The geese pestered us. We watched the sea lion show. For my local friends, here's a coupon for the zoo that doesn't expire until October.

I am reading The Lacuna and loving it. It was last month's book club book and I didn't get it done in time. This month is Middlesex, which I hear is really good but "heartbreaking."

I think I'm beginning to have some shutter issues with my trusty Canon. It has frozen up quite a bit lately, and I have to take the battery out to get it to wake up. During a recent photo shoot even! I think it's time to start a camera upgrade savings account. Ouch.

Oh lordy! I hear The Hangover on the television in there. Gotta go, that's one seriously funny movie...

I'll be back soon. xo.

Posted by Alicia at 9:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)

Already it's been the perfect amount of relaxing and just the right amount of busy and fun.

Last night we went out for a quick dinner*, ran into some friends, ran into the kids' dentist**, poked around Half Price Books, came home and built a fire outside.

This morning we all slept in, and then N and I made these delicious doughnuts while Brian helped J with his book report.

This afternoon we have plans with friends, and this evening J has a soccer game (on the turf under the lights at the fancy new soccer complex- so fun!).

Happy Weekending to you too!

* With the constraints of my headache diet, fast food is pretty much out for us. We've discovered that Jason's Deli is quick and cheap and has many healthy options for all.*

** It's always so funny for the kids to run into someone out of context. You should have seen their faces when they saw their dentist eating next to us! They even felt too shy to say hello.**

Posted by Alicia at 11:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (6)

First let me explain the photos. My mom just called me and said, "Jump in the car and bring your camera. You have to see this wisteria." A little annoyed, I did as I was told. Oh. My. It all twisty and tangled around a BIG pine tree- maybe 40 feet tall? And blooming all the way to the tippy top! Thanks, Mom. You were right. : )

* * * * * * * *
Next I wanted to tell you I did a Show and Tell Home Tour over at The Stir. I was so flattered to be asked and a bit nervous, but it really was fun to toot our horns a little about all the work we've done around here.

* * * * * * * *
Heather made a big announcement today. Did you see?! It's very, very exciting. She'll have more to share about it soon!

* * * * * * * *
Martha and Jen are back at it again.

* * * * * * * *
My little J has taken a quick overnight trip to St. Louis with his Grandma, aka Maw Maw, for a photo shoot tomorrow! Maw Maw is a Red Cross volunteer and J donates part of his allowance each week to the Red Cross ($1 a week, every little bit helps). They called to see if they'd be willing to have some publicity photos taken together. He's really excited about it. We all are.

Posted by Alicia at 5:45 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)

Today is the day that the red buds are blooming. The day that the plum still has a few flowers left, and the viburnum is bursting with fragrance. It is the day that the lilacs are beginning to open and the tulips have not yet wilted.

The day that the lettuces in the garden are beginning to look like lettuces, the spinach like spinach. The day to finally see a few broccoli sprouts coming up.

It's the day to eat a piece of pumpkin cake with our breakfast. The day to make long list of to-dos and hopefully complete a few of them. The day to do a little computer work on the patio.

The day for soccer practice- red faces, foot skills, water breaks, hard work. And the day that the girl might do cartwheels and make chains out of dandelions during practice.

So far, it's a good day.

And tomorrow is my mom's birthday. : )

Posted by Alicia at 9:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (7)

Good morning to you!

I've been busy (as a bee) sprucing up our patio. We've got a beeeeea-utiful weekend ahead of us, and our living is shifting toward outdoors as much as in. I'm hoping we'll be patio ready by this evening. What shall we grill?

I woke up today with a craving for pumpkin cake with cream cheese frosting. Good thing I have some pumpkin puree in the freezer!

We're at peak flowering tree season too, and it's downright amazing. It must be hard on the allergy sufferers though. I've even had to take a Claritin the last couple of days, and my allergies aren't that bad.
. . . . . . . . . . . . .

Have you seen the newest set at What Remains Inside?

Have you visited book scout?

I'm planning a bottle cutting session sometime soon. (found via Martha.) Are those not perfect for the patio?

Go look at Brian Ferry's newest set of photographs! Good golly that man is good.

. . . . . . . . . . .

Gotta go. A paintbrush and a can of outdoor stain are calling.

Have a super weekend!

Posted by Alicia at 9:35 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)

Hello! We're having the most amazing weather this week. It's gusty and sunny and warm.

We (N and I) have been raking up leaves, picking up sticks, digging, planting seeds, finding pots, planning. Well... she did for a little while, and then she mostly practiced her cartwheels.

It's really starting to come to life out there, and I'm thrilled about it.

Happy Tuesday!

Posted by Alicia at 3:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Hi there! I'm back to tell you about this book that seems to help me: Heal Your Headache, The 1-2-3 Program for Taking Charge of Your Pain by David Buchholz, M.D.

Please, please don't take any of this as me preaching to you. I am simply sharing this theory because it seems to work... for me. Everyone must make their own decisions and conclusions when dealing with any health issue. Right? Right.

This is a simplified explanation of this particular neurologist's approach to migraine control. It isn't easy, and it involves drastically altering your diet for at least awhile. If your headaches are currently manageable and you are feeling good about how you deal with them, I'm so glad. If not and (like me) you're reaching a point that they are honestly negatively affecting your life, at least give this book a look-through. I checked mine out from the library, but ended up buying a copy.

First, his basic theory of migraines:

He feels that all headaches, with very few rare exceptions, are the same. Headaches occur when the blood vessels in your brain inflame and cause pain and a myriad of other symptoms. Things like tension and sinus irritation can cause the migraine process to begin; they are not a kind of headache on their own. Everyone has certain triggers that may start this process- some of us more triggers than others. Also some of us have a lower tolerance level for the amount of triggers we can handle before something tells our brains to fully activate the migraine process, leading to, as I called it, A Bad One.

Ding, ding, ding! That was it! That was the key for me, why I liked his approach. I have always told doctors that no matter what kind of headache it was- a slight hangover, tension related, allergies- if I let it go on too long, it would become a migraine! Could they all be migraines to start with?! Finally. Someone backed up my theory. And so I read on.

Step #1: Avoid quick fixes.

The reason coffee and Excedrin make headaches go away is that caffeine constricts your blood vessels thus reducing the inflammation and pain. Of course we use caffeine to manage our pain. It works really well. Triptans like Maxalt (my miracle drug) and Imitrex are powerful vasoconstrictors and in a complicated way trick your brain into shrinking the blood vessels quickly. Ahhhh... relief in minutes. There are several other drugs in this section, but these are the ones that I use.

BUT you see, there is a problem with these drugs. They can cause rebound headaches. Your blood vessels overcompensate after the drug wears off and can, over time and use of the drug, make your headaches worse. (Drastically oversimplified- he explains this all very well.) This, I think, is where I'd been trapped for several months. I'd gotten myself into a nasty rebound cycle and couldn't get out.

Coffee is also a double edged sword- not only is caffeine a drug that can cause some dependency, coffee and tea also contain some other substances that can be migraine triggers. I'd drink the coffee because I needed it to stave off a headache, and then it actually caused me more headaches. Oy.

Step #2: Reduce Your Triggers

This is the doozy. So again, simplifying his theory. Everyone has triggers they cannot control like weather changes, hormonal fluctuations, odors, unavoidable stress, etc. But add to those very common medication and dietary triggers and we can quickly find ourselves in that fully activated migraine state. Ouch.

I know, I know. This is the tough one. He gives you a list of the most common trigger foods and recommends removing them all for a few months to see if you really feel a difference. The lists in his book are very detailed and specific. Here's the short version:

Caffeine, caffeine, caffeine (coffee, tea, soda)
Chocolate
MSG (this one is SUPER tricky and what makes this diet most difficult for me)
Processed meats (often full of MSG and nitrates)
Cheese and dairy products (milk, cream, ice cream, ricotta, cream cheese are ok.)
Nuts (seeds are ok.)
Alcohol and vinegar (except white vinegars)
Certain fruits and their juices (citrus, pineapple, raspberries, fruits dried with sulfites)
Certain veggies especially onions (certain beans are out. green onions, shallots, leeks and garlic are ok.)
Fresh yeast risen breads (they need to be a day old. this is a weird one.)
Aspartame (NutraSweet)
Any others you suspect affect you.

You take these items out of your diet as best you can, trying hard not to drive those around you crazy, for a few months and hopefully see some dramatic improvement. You probably won't have to keep them ALL out for good- he explains how to liberalize the diet later on.

This brings us to where I am in the plan. I've been on the diet for six weeks. At first it was REALLY. HARD. It's easier now. It sounds like a lot, but you get used to it fast. Eating out is still difficult, but I'm navigating that as best I can.

This diet is helping greatly. I am hoping it's not onions that bother me- that one makes it hard to eat out as does MSG. I thought I'd miss chocolate terribly, but I don't. Same with cheese. I do miss coffee and I'm hoping down the line I'll be able to handle a cup of decaf. I'd also like to be able to enjoy a vodka tonic now and then on the patio this summer. Could I live on this diet forever? Absolutely. Do I think I'll be able to reintroduce a few items? Of course.

And that's the thing about this diet. It is a TOOL, not a life sentence. If you start cheating too much, and the headaches start to creep back in, you can pull out the tool and tighten it back up. I'm also thinking at some point I'll be able to judge a few of my uncontrollable triggers better and decide if a little cheat is doable now and then.

Step #3: Raise your tolerance

Certain preventative medications can raise your tolerance for your particular triggers. Dr. Buccholz lists many good and proven options and I've discussed one with my doctor. (It's a tricyclic antidepressant.) He wrote me a prescription and I'm waiting. I was hoping with the diet and a little more exercise, I could avoid that step all together. My headaches are better, but they certainly aren't gone. But I have to say for the first time in a long time, I feel in control. I'm not just waiting for these headaches to happen.

I've been pondering the medication. If I could raise my tolerance just a little, so that a cocktail on the patio or a piece of chocolate cake at a party didn't throw me into a tailspin, wouldn't it be worth a try? If it improved my enjoyment of life? Surely. I'm trying to stay open minded. I'll make a decision in the next couple of weeks.

. . . . . . . . . . .

So there you go. That's it in a (big) nutshell. Like I said before, this is a "last resort" sort of plan. The diet is a pain in the butt. Yes. But it's helping. If you're feeling at your last straw, go to the library and find it. You never know.

And finally I'm done. I'll hush about it now. : )

Wishing for many headache-free days for us all.

Posted by Alicia at 12:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (23)

Get ready. This is a long one. I'm breaking it down into two posts, and then I'll shut up about it. I promise! Feel free to move along if you're not a sufferer or don't really give a flying fig. You certainly won't hurt my feelings. : )

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

So. About the headaches. Please understand that I am NO expert, but I have found something that seems to help me. Whenever I mention here that I get migraines, I get lots of commiseration and suggestions, which tells me there are lots of us who suffer. That is why I post this today.

My history: My mom and my sister both get migraines. My dad used to get them, and his sister did too- hers were strongly connected to anxiety attacks. I started getting problematic headaches as a teen. My family doctor labeled them tension headaches and gave me some muscle relaxers to try. They didn't particularly help- I remember them making me sleepy.

Mine manifest in this way: one sided pain- but not always the same side- in my sinuses, behind an eye, across my face into my temple, and in the muscle behind my ear and down my neck and shoulder. Sensitivity to light. Nausea. All classic migraine pain. I yawn a lot when they're coming on.

Just after I graduated from college, I tried one of my mom's Maxalt. It was like a miracle. That drug changed my life, until well, it just didn't anymore.

They have always been hormonal, alcohol will trigger one but not always, and the only food trigger I have successfully pinpointed is Brie cheese. My headaches are always worse in the winter (connected with seasonal depression, too little exercise and fresh air) and improve in the summer (lots of sun and free time, plenty of physical activity outdoors.)

Excedrin and I became good friends. Coffee too. Caffeine always helped, until well, it just didn't anymore. (Seeing a pattern?) Until recently I have had a low grade headache at some point in every day. I got used to them. If I didn't find something to nip it early, any headache would progress into what I call a Bad One which might lead to a headache pill (Maxalt or Imitrex.) Most days I could stop them no problem. Occasionally I couldn't. I've been to urgent care three times in the last couple of years with a Bad One that even the headache pills wouldn't knock. This is called a break-through migraine. Let me tell you, those SUCK.

I've done loads of research and have come to discover that migraines are tricky territory. Doctors admit they don't fully understand them, although there is proof migraine brains are physiologically different than the "normal" brain. Many things can trigger them including food, stress, hormones, odors, weather changes, even such minimal things as wearing a tight ponytail or bright sunlight. There are just so many triggers and ways the headaches manifest themselves, and as many approaches and treatments as there are doctors in the phone book.

The months of January and February were particularly bad for me. I took NINE headache pills in a 4 week period. They cost me about $20 each! One particular headache spell lasted 6 days. I nearly lost my marbles. I was at my wits' end. The rest of my family's too.

I called around for a good neurologist to visit. I couldn't get an appointment until May or June. I worriedly emailed friends. Dearest Emily recommended a book by a neurologist from Johns Hopkins that had really helped her friend. I checked it out from the library and started reading.

**Click**

It just clicked. I don't know this doctor. But so much of his approach makes sense to me. I relate perfectly to many of his case study examples. I made an appointment with my regular doctor to discuss it, and he was very supportive of my plan. And already, six weeks later, it is helping me immensely. I only have hope that it will continue to improve.

. . . . . . . . . . . . .

Sheesh! Enough for today. I'll be back with how his approach works and where I am in the process.

Thank you so much for reading. I'll see you tomorrow.

Posted by Alicia at 2:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (19)

Hi. Things are looking up around here.

I'll be back soon. xo.

Posted by Alicia at 5:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (11)

this winter has been kickin' my butt.

Nothing is wrong. Everyone is fine. But as anyone who suffers from even a little bit of seasonal depression knows, it is never logical. My migraines have been unusually bad this winter (they are always worse in the winter) which of course makes me more depressed. It's a bad cycle. But this too shall pass.

I'm working on it, in all the ways I know how, but I just wanted to take myself off the hook here at this space. Someday I'll be back with art I've made and things I've sewn to show you. But for now, I'm backing off. I may stop in now and then with a few words or a photo.

I need to give myself the freedom to step away from the internet when I feel that bad pressure (not the good, hopeful, inspirational kind) sneaking up on me. The kind that makes me feel like I can't keep up. Right now I need that freedom.

So now you know.

Take good care,
Alicia

Posted by Alicia at 2:23 PM | Permalink

The Daddy Daughter Valentine dance, a perfect little dinner party last night, fancy breakfast with my valentines, dinner at my folks' tonight, and an extra day off school tomorrow.

The little house was a most fitting little gift for my sweetie. He works for Habitat for Humanity, you know.

Happy ♥ day!

Posted by Alicia at 4:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (8)

Brian and little N have plans. There is a Daddy-Daughter Valentine's Ball to attend. There will be dancing and snacks and little girls in fancy dresses. When we explained it to her, I thought she might burst. Every morning she asks if it's the day of the dance. And then sometime later in the day she hollers, "NO! I will NOT _______!" (fill in the blank with any small request from us) and slams a door. Then we threaten to take the dance away. (Bad, bad parents.) But who are we kidding? You know she'll get to go.

I have sprung into action in my way- styling the outfit. It's a Christmas dress from her cousins. I think I'll change it up just a little- maybe a pink ribbon sash instead of the tulle, remove the flower from the dress, and perhaps make a flower for her hair or her wrist. I started hunting for fabric flower ideas found some great stuff:

• I LOVE everything in this store, including that adorable Emerson.

• These have a nice tailored feel. I think N might need a headband in navy blue. And then I need to make her a little natural linen sundress to wear it with, yes?

• I've been admiring one of these for myself for quite awhile. It could hide a hole in a little cashmere cardigan I have.

• Pretty.

And speaking of links, these two have nothing to do with any of that but make me smile:

• This photo. Ahhhhh. I may be responsible at least half of it's 1200+ views.

• OK. This one is cheesy, but SO funny. If you were into grunge at all (we were), watch this *song*. Ohmygod. Brian and I watch every once in awhile to cheer up the day.

Have a great weekend.

Posted by Alicia at 9:52 AM | Permalink | Comments (7)

20-10. Twenty ten? No, I prefer the long way. I wanted to set down a few things l'd like to do this year, personal wishes to fulfill (love that Rach). I'm not really a resolution maker, but I do love a good list, so here's where the twain shall meet.

I will try to...

Get involved with the arts again- go to the Nelson for lectures, attend openings, First Fridays, go to some more of these events, reconnect with artsy folks I use to know.

Find my film mojo. Oh, mojo... where are you???

Frequent estate sales in hopes of finding a dusty, forgotten old etching press that no one knows what to do with, buy it for a steal, give it some tlc and get going. (What? Yes it could. It could happen.)

Explore my city.

Take the cameras along.

For everything I buy at the thrift store, send something out of the house.

Wear more skirts.

Grow something. (other than tomatoes.)

Can something. (maybe tomatoes.)

Teach the girl to read. She is oh-so-close.

Help the boy learn to organize and be more responsible for himself.

Start to get a hold on my one big health issue- persistent migraine headaches.

Stay focused. Keep it simple.

Follow through. Finish old projects to free up space (physically and mentally) for new ones.

There. That's plenty.
Until soon.

Posted by Alicia at 8:01 AM | Permalink | Comments (14)

I'm stir crazy.

It's our second snow day in a row. It's deadly cold out there. My car is in the shop (for something minor) but I doubt we want to brave the frigid temps anyway. I have been feeling that old February fatigue creeping in early, so I'm making a strong effort to stay positive. I should be working, but my office/studio is the coldest room in our old house. When we turn on the space heater and any one of the following: tv, the space heater downstairs, the other tv, the iron, etc., it trips a breaker. I'm getting a little behind on some work projects, but oh well.

To fight it off the funk today I have:
slept late
cuddled my little people
built an icicle sculpture
danced and sang with N
read a book

and now I do believe it is time. Time to bake a chocolate cake. Indeed.

Stay cozy.

Posted by Alicia at 12:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (10)

I'm feeling cold and scatter-brained today:

We posted our very last entry at the Noticing Project this morning. It's been such a nice little project- I see the world around me a little differently because of it. I'm sad to see it end, but mostly feeling good and proud.

The habit reunion is over, and they've got new guests for January.

Shanna and Julia made a new desktop calendar.

The kids are back to school. The holiday break was cozy and fun, but enough togetherness is enough, if you know what I mean.

I've been thinking up a list of things I'd like to do in this new year, little and big. I might post them here if I get them organized instead of watching them swirl around in my mind. Maybe later in the week.

In order to finish up home projects I've started, I'm tackling one room at a time. I started with our bedroom. Saturday I repaired our headboard and sewed new pillow cases. Yesterday I reupholstered a little chair that's been in progress for only, oh, maybe about ten years! Next I'm framing and hanging artwork and making a little artsy throw pillow. Perhaps I'll post a short tour of each room as I go. We've done a lot of remodeling, updating, and decorating to this old house on the cheap and we're pretty proud.

January is birthday extravaganza month here at our house, so I'll show you all that too. These children are getting impossibly old. How does that happen?

Well, that's about it. Happy Monday! (Stay warm.)

Posted by Alicia at 1:49 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)

Happy Winter Solstice! Thank goodness we're on the upswing with good old sun.

I'm officially calling it winter vacation here at the blog now that both of my kids are home. It's time to relax and enjoy. I'll still post a few handmade gifts I'm finishing up over at flickr, and Heather and I will of course be posting at the Noticing Project until the end of the year.

No matter your persuasion, I hope these winter holidays are treating you well and you have plenty of time to eat, drink and be merry. Much love to you and yours.

Take good care,
Alicia

Posted by Alicia at 7:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)

Oh well hello there! It sure has been awhile since I visited this place. How are you?

We took a trip to St. Louis for an extended Thanksgiving vacation and soaked up plenty of family time. And the phrase "family time" here means children running amok while the adults eat, drink and laugh about things they find on various internet-phone handheld devices. (We're enjoying Lemony Snicket lately, can you tell?)

A side note: when we were leaving St. Louis, J whispered to his grandpa, "I liked waking up early and doing the crossword with you, Da." Isn't that boy a peach? It wasn't the zoo or the ice skating or the carriage ride through the lights or even running around with his teenage cousins. It was a snuggle and a crossword puzzle with one of his favorite people. Melt.

But being away for a week, even when the visit is just about perfect, makes us very thankful for home. We human animals do love that sense of place we make for ourselves, don't we? J was so happy to sleep in his own bed and N was glad to see her own toys. They have played so well together the last day and a half and everyone has been sleeping like rocks. Rocks on sleeping pills. I was so happy yesterday to drink coffee out of my favorite mug with my best creamer; it was extra delicious.

I finished these little lap quilts in a hurry to deliver in person and avoid the shipping. I was really happy with them. My nieces requested I do something with their outgrown beloved pjs. You can see the finished quilts better HERE and HERE. They were little, maybe 2 1/2 by 3 feet, but quilted crinkly on the front and soft flannel on the back. My mom gave me a helpful hint. If you want to work knit fabrics into a quilt, all you have to do is iron on a little thin interfacing to the back and the stretch/no stretch issue is solved. Thanks, Mom!

So we're already done with presents for that side of the family. Teenage boys just want a little cash in a funny card, and Brian's parents had a long list of around-the-house repairs that they wanted done. Ahhhh. The gift of a super-handy son. The gift that keeps on giving.

So now we're settled at home for the season and happy to be thinking about Christmas decorations and activities.

- - - - - - -

p.s. I'll be back tomorrow with some cooking questions for you, so please be ready to dig through your recipe boxes for me.

Posted by Alicia at 9:31 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)

Hello! How are you? I'm enjoying a little breakfast chocolate cake this morning. I don't have much to share, but I've been missing stopping into this space once in awhile.

We're all just fine- still too busy- but that will slow down soon. Of course I didn't get the stuff ready for my shop, but there's always hope for this week. : )

I have begun thinking and planning and making for holiday gifts. Maybe if I start early it will help keep our holiday season more peaceful.

Brian and I have decided that we have hit critical stuff level. He's taking the day off tomorrow and we're having Great Clean-Out Day 2009. I'm making assignments and writing lists. We're borrowing my dad's truck. There will be trips to the ReStore and Goodwill to make donations. I am giddy! (I'm really easy to please.)

Well, take care. I hope to start squeezing out some time to post again once in awhile. See you soon!

Posted by Alicia at 9:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (10)

Fall is flying by here. There are still lots of beautiful trees out there, but there are lots of brown ones as well and falling crunchy leaves everywhere.

I am feeling utterly overwhelmed with the number of things I need to get done in the next week or two, so I will be stepping away from the computer for a little while (except for the Noticing Project.) I intended to get a couple of very fun little things into my shop for the first week of November, so maybe I can get those done too. I'm spending most of my time these days taking portrait photographs and editing, editing, editing...

Have a safe and terrific Halloween this weekend! I'll see you soon.

Posted by Alicia at 8:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)

I couldn't leave up yesterday's crabby post for another minute. So here is one about walnuts:

It doesn't get cheaper than free or more local than in the front yard, and you know how I am about the cheap and the local. BUT none of us like walnuts, not a one. This year we've got a bumper crop.

Brian told the kids he'd pay them a dollar for every (5 gallon) bucket they'd fill. I think they got up to something like $15 before they lost interest in the money. And these three here aren't included in that. And there are so many more still on the ground or clinging to the tree. And they turn your hands brown. And twist your ankles and then laugh at you. Ok, maybe they don't laugh. But they definitely taunt.

One year a nice little fellow stopped and asked if he could take them. YES! But he hasn't come by this year. Anyone have any ideas? Anyone? Anyone?

Bueller?

Posted by Alicia at 2:28 PM | Permalink | Comments (33)

It's cold today, and I can't seem to warm up.

Apparently, I'm feeling crabby.

Today is my alone/studio day.

I've started about 5 things but finished nothing.

I'm having trouble focusing. (duh.)

Our school officially has the h1n1 flu. One of our 1st grade classes had 4 people in it yesterday. A couple of Kindergarten classes had barely a few more than that. It seems to be minor in most of the kids, but one of J's best friends had to be hospitalized. He's ok now. My kids have had the vaccine. I hope it helps. I've just about decided to get it myself when it becomes available.

It has been rainy for days.

Our furnace is acting up. Shall I send it to time out?

It's book club night, so that will cheer me up. We read this book. It was a little worthless but suspenseful and really very good. It was just what I needed to read.

I have lots and lots of portrait photo shoots coming up, so that is good too.

I'm going now. I need something warm to drink.

Posted by Alicia at 2:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)

We are watching a couple extra kiddos for a few days. They are great kids and my own kids love them like family. It is going really well, but they are all off to school this morning and I am really enjoying the quiet.

We have big, exciting plans tonight: homemade pizza and milkshakes at the bar, popcorn and a movie. Fun!

Have a great weekend, everybody. See you next week.

Posted by Alicia at 10:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (6)

I usually don't share stuff like this, but I think you should know this quirky little band. I bumped into them on youtube today, and I love them.

Their music is awesome (I think) and they are hilarious and tongue-in-cheek (which I love) and they record the music in someone's den (or bedroom?) and it sounds really good. Her voice is amazing and they are adorable. You can download their covers for free and their original songs for a buck (at myspace).

Be sure to watch "September" and see his Grandma shake her thang.

Rock on.
That is all.

Posted by Alicia at 12:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (20)

Do you remember the basement remodel? It's nearly finished, but not quite. I'll do some proper "after" photos one of these days.

The look I'm going for down there is kind of Palm Springs cocktail hour meets Gauguin's Tahiti, but I am a notorious under decorator. I have trouble accessorizing; I don't do clutter well. At least the clock has the feel I'm looking for- I made it myself. I cut a circle out of 3/4 inch mdf and drilled holes for the dowels around the edge, taped off the leaves, spray painted the whole thing, and added the clock works (from Hobby Lobby). Tada!

Pull a stool up to the red bar. It's time for a cocktail.

Posted by Alicia at 3:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (13)

I missed the last day of Autumn Color Week so I thought I'd pop in with some colorful photos from the Weston Applefest today- we go every year and it always feels like the official beginning of Fall for our little family.

We are really happy this weekend. I hope you are too!

Posted by Alicia at 10:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)

Where-oh-where did September go?! At least someone has been enjoying the falling leaves. Her daddy gets a little tired of cleaning out the gutters.

Today: slow morning, another cup of coffee, hope for the rain to clear- I've got something I need to work on outside, flu shot for the mom, bake a chicken and some taters, muddy soccer practice.

Have a great Thursday!

Posted by Alicia at 8:53 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

The leaves are turning yellow and orange, falling and getting crunchy underfoot. Is it early this year? It seems early to me.

Then again, I think I say that every year.

Posted by Alicia at 8:17 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)

Green today- dew on the grass. It's the coolest morning yet, and I seem to be fine with it.

I'm working on a little project but we're out of wood glue. I'm also still planning some new items for my shop, but I'm waiting for something to arrive in the mail.

Soup for dinner would be nice. Maybe we'll bake something to go with it.

Posted by Alicia at 8:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)

I'm going with the flow. Savoring my coffee a little longer in the morning. Staying calm about wearing a little sweater today. Not stressing over putting the comforter back on the bed. Taking it easy with Autumn Color Week photos here at the blog. And this weekend it our official start of the season, the Apple Fest. I hope it stays cool. (Did I just say that?!)

Posted by Alicia at 4:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)

Yesterday was the little one's first day of extended preschool. From 9 am until 3 pm I was all alone. Instead of working (I'll work next Wednesday- I already have a mural scheduled.) I planned a day out on the town.

I went to the Nelson-Atkins. I rarely go. I'm not sure why. That's not true. Two small, squirrelly, squealing children. That's why. But yesterday for two and a half hours I walked around and soaked it in. Alone and unrushed it was a completely different experience.

•It was a misty, foggy day and it made the time feel more important. The air was thick and still. It was quieter than usual outside.
•Walking around inside I realized there is a complete lack of odor which somehow helped me sink into each artwork. But when someone would walk by me, I would be flooded with their fabric softener and perfume smells, and it would snap me right back. It was an interesting sensation.
•Even the busload of rowdy teens that arrived calmed and quieted entering the Bloch building. Where they warned ahead of time? Or is there something about entering a space like that just makes them feel a reverence for the artwork, their surroundings, the experience itself. I prefer to think the latter.
•I left feeling refreshed and inspired- to make art, to look at more art, to find a way to attend some of the programs and events they offer.

I may have found a first-day-of-school tradition!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Next was a lunch date with my sweetie. We ate at The Filling Station. I asked him how long until we can move to the city. Fourteen years he said. Ah yes.

I stopped at my favorite thrift store and got a pair of navy chinos for $1.50.

Then I went and met Rachel at Panera for an iced tea (she had coffee) and we talked and laughed until time to pick up our kids. I think we scared away at least one little old guy. Sorry, little old guy!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

I hope you can find a day similar to this soon. It was most rewarding.

Posted by Alicia at 7:49 AM | Permalink | Comments (13)

and numerous showers. That is the weather forecast I just read. It's perfect for the day after our annual apple pilferage. We unknowingly picked the exact same day as last year- September 3rd.

I am thinking a (renegade) crisp for dessert tonight and then some (renegade) muffins with a crunchy top to take along camping tomorrow.

Happy Friday!

p.s. The light is changing. Can you feel it?

Posted by Alicia at 9:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)

Over the weekend N and I went with some good friends to the lake- unfortunately our boys had to stay home.

We ate well and swam off the dock. We took it easy. There was a third birthday to celebrate and another with a three followed by a larger number. ; )

The sun was warm but the breeze was cool. The beach was fun until the lips turned blue. At night we put on sweatshirts and took sunset boat rides. The kids passed out tired and the grownups built a fire. It felt like a fitting end to the summer.

* * * * *
The little one started preschool yesterday and the boy voluntarily wore jeans today. He declared as he was getting dressed that he smelled the Apple Fest.

The season is turning for sure.

Posted by Alicia at 8:20 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)

I am not a gardener. Brian has forced me to say these words aloud this year. But every year I have grand plans and every year I try and every year something goes awry- my seedlings drown (last year), or I forget to build a little fence and my plants become gourmet salad for the neighborhood bunnies (this year). This summer I gave up on everything except for my tomato plants and they actually, knock on wood, are good.

But guess what?! I'll be damned if a few things didn't survive and aren't growing out there! So far we're watching one bell pepper, a few tiny little jalapenos and a bunch of baby cucumbers. There were even a couple green beans. And I mean two beans. Not two bean plants. But it's a start, right?!

I don't really have a black thumb! It's sort of greyish-green!

I have a couple questions:

Can I pick my pink tomatoes a little early and let them ripen on the counter so they don't get swiped by squirrels like they usually do? Will it affect the flavor?
And does anyone local know if we've got much late blight around here?

**********************

Oh, and I have one unrelated question for you. Is there such thing as a custom die punch? I've seen cute little punches at the hobby store in the scrapbooking section, but I want one made of something very specific. I can't find it online. Any ideas?

***********************

Thanks!

Posted by Alicia at 2:36 PM | Permalink | Comments (10)

So these babies go up so fast. So fast. Off he goes, off to the third grade.

Ok, cut him some slack on the yawn. It was early. It started storming (again) as soon as they drove off for school. Fairly fitting I thought.

Yesterday should have been jam-packed with sports activities, but everything was rained out. We took the opportunity to eat a leisurely breakfast and then get to work. We cleaned and sorted and put some stuff up on Craigslist and took stuff to Goodwill. And this morning I am just so glad we did it. It feels darn good to start off on the right foot.

My studio is clean too, which is great. I am making big plans (and long lists.)

Happy Monday!

Posted by Alicia at 9:16 AM | Permalink | Comments (6)

Tended to an injury. That's nine stitches if you're counting. Well, Maw Maw (Brian's mom) did lots of the tending- I mostly marveled at how fast kids heal.

Hung out with friends and ate their yummy food and ice cream made by my sweetie.

Went to the lake with just grown-ups. Drank some beers. Played in the water.

Picked peaches. TONS of peaches. (Note to self: if you let your children pick over a bushel and a half of peaches, it will be expensive.)

Ate peaches. TONS of peaches. Baked two cobblers and a pie for a guest.

Said goodbye to habit. Realized what a wonderful place those ladies have created. Felt thankful to be a part of it.

Hosted lots of out-of-town family for a weekend, and then the girl and I headed to St. Louis with them. Did lots of fun St. Louis-y things.

Rode the train home and found ALL of the laundry done. (Thanks again, sweetie.)

Bought school supplies, ordered a new backpack, got the teacher letter. Listened to the boy call everyone he knows to figure out who got who. Dried a few tears. (His two best friends are in another class.)

Spent a long afternoon at the pool. Slathered on sunscreen but realized they are still getting awfully tan. Came home and made smoothies. Added rum to the second batch for the grown-ups.

Decided wrap-up posts like this make me really think about all of the good things in my life and forget all the mundane and frustrating things. Hooray!

HAPPY WEEKEND!

Posted by Alicia at 6:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (12)

Hello, friends!

Before I talk about the lists, I want to mention one thing. Please go over to Echoes for a visit. Today we asked Martha to be our special guest. You just HAVE to go over and see what she created. It is amazing. She talks a little more in depth about it at her journal. I'm going to try to talk her into selling me a print. Think it'll work? : )

Now, back to my lists. We are getting ready to take a little camping trip and I decided to make a master list to print out each time we go. It took me awhile to think of all the stuff we usually take, but it will be good to have in the long run. And maybe we'll avoid a few of those last minute impulse buys once we get there! (ie: "Oh, crap! Where's my jacket... my swimsuit... my flashlight... the lantern fuel... ?! Come on, I think I saw a Walmart back in town.")

While I was at it, I went over to Erin's site to download her adorable packing list for kids. But I decided we needed something just a little more specific to my kids. So I took a bit of time and drew them up a list of our own. J is definitely old enough to pack his bag, and N and I can do hers together. I think this idea is just brilliant!

I am a list maker. Lists everywhere and for everything. I know some of you are too. Lists really help keep a creative mind more organized.

So for your downloading pleasure:

Erin's smarty-pants packing list- it's in her sidebar!
Rachel's most excellent hivework list.
No nonsense Action list at supafine.
The Project Girl: daily planner, weekly chore schedule, menu planning forms.
Awesome "freakin to do list" (with "dreamy blog topics list") from Vale Design. Ha!
Not to mention MANY at Etsy! I especially love the owls.

Bye bye now!

Posted by Alicia at 2:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (10)

Goodbye, June. You treated us very well. Thank you kindly.

Hello, July. Let's play nice, shall we?

They're blooming again.

I'm completely honored to be a guest over at habit this month.

Please don't forget to get out your art supplies and submit something to the echoes summer is... flickr pool.

You only have a few days left to download the Fanfarlo album for $1. I did. And I love it.

Have a terrific Wednesday! I'm headed back out to the back patio with my sketch book now.

Posted by Alicia at 1:50 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

I wish we had a pool: night swimming.

There are so many reasons not to want a pool, but after a relaxing float in the glowing water, chatting, sipping margaritas, watching the bats dip down for a drink, it's hard to remember them.

Posted by Alicia at 4:20 PM | Permalink | Comments (9)

of the house.

Right now we're choosing to ignore the front side of the house, where there scene resembles this:

and we're hanging out on the back patio- where there are no hidden structural problems, nails to step on, and ginormous holes in the new roof.

On the back side of the house there are grilled chicken legs, pasta salad, a sputnik fire and marshmallows, and plenty of cheap, cold beer. And if you squint and hang over the fence, you can catch a glimpse of this wondrous rose bush.

Have a great weekend!

(Three posts in one week doesn't exactly seem like an blogging break. Hmmmm.)

Posted by Alicia at 7:32 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)

A quick trip to St. Lou for a wedding...

and an impromptu zoo visit.

Have a great week!

Posted by Alicia at 10:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)

If this long weekend was any indication of things to come, this may be one fabulous summer.

.............................................................................................................

I'm going to go with the idea of weekly posts- heavy on imagery, light on words- for awhile. But if I miss a week, don't worry about me. We're just busy having fun.

Happy Summer!

Posted by Alicia at 9:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (6)

HELLO, my name is Alicia. Remember me?

I got a little Holga for Mother's Day, and I'm smitten. Here are a few of the photos from the first roll, because all posts must have pictures.

Surely you have noticed I've sort of lost my oomph here at the blog. I'm still around- working, taking tons of photos, and making stuff. I just often feel like I don't have much to say. School is about to end for the summer, which means even less time for staring at screens (which is a good, good thing.) So I have a few things to run past you.

Agenda item 1: I'm contemplating taking the summer off blogging. Or cutting way back. Maybe post weekly photo recaps. Would you all be completely bored I made it a word-free zone around here for a couple months? Would you click that dreaded unsubscribe button?

I, of course, am still a full-fledged Flickr junkie. And here's why: It's like blogging on speed. My friends are there! There's inspiration galore! Less words! More images! And there are conversations! I tell you, peeps. It's the place to be. Anyway, no matter what I decide, I'm always over there if you want to check in.

Agenda item 2: I want to restock my neglected shop, but I have found in the past if I bust my butt to get sew up a bunch of stuff and then it just sits there, it is very discouraging. SO, my question for you is- What shall I put in it? I've thought about making it all custom orders, perhaps personalized pillows, artist totes, work aprons, etc. But if the item isn't sitting there ready to go, is it still appealing? And how long is a customary length of time to wait for an order? Two weeks?

Agenda item 3: A shameless plea: Please don't forget us over at the Noticing Project. We miss you. Our stats feel tragically low and comments are too. We'll keep snapping whether anyone looks or not, but we'd really love for you to come along for the ride.

So that's it. The weather is perfect today; I must get back to putting laundry on my line. Thanks in advance for your advice!

xo.

Posted by Alicia at 12:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (23)

for carnivals : last days of school : end of year picnics : end of year shows : field day : first dinner on the patio : first breakfast on the patio : first romp in the sprinkler : first day to wear shorts to school : last game of the soccer season : baseball season in full force : icees : smoothies : homemade popsicles : farmers markets : big salads : fires on the patio : waiting for fireflies : sleeping with the windows open : hearing owls in the night : new flip flops : swimsuit anxiety : claritin : the smell of sunscreen: the smell of bug spray : sandy toes : dirty, dirty feet : spilled bubbles : everyday baths : tired kids : tired mom

::

I was trying to explain to them that it is so fun to have children, because it means you get to relive all the thrills of being a kid. They looked at me like I was crazy. Someday I bet they'll understand.

Posted by Alicia at 1:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)

6 years of dating + 12 years of marriage = half of our lives. Wonderful and impossible and true. I love you, sweetie.

My brilliant husband sent the kids to my mom and dad's so we could go out to brunch together yesterday for our anniversary.

After brunch, we drove by the location of our wedding and poked around.

Then we visited our old hood, talked with a neighbor, stopping along the way for a couple of photo ops. Really, could you have passed these poppies?! I didn't think so.

So today I'm feeling mushy and happy.
and hoping your day is good!

Posted by Alicia at 8:38 AM | Permalink | Comments (24)

We had a really good day together. She can always make me laugh.

Posted by Alicia at 10:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)

The lilac and the viburnum. It makes me crazy happy.

Too bad the computer screen isn't scratch and sniff!

Happy Earthday!

Posted by Alicia at 6:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (13)

even the coffee was a little gift from Heather. (The brownies are long gone!)

I love my girls.

Posted by Alicia at 9:59 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)

I'm in a creative rut, it seems. This month has been super busy with the return of some mural jobs, photo shoots, and the overlap of soccer and baseball for the boy. Apparently in my free time I'd rather read or sleep and not do much creating (or blogging) which is strange for me. It will return I'm sure. I'll just plug along and wait it out.

I think I'll show you some photos of things that are making me happy for a few days.

Today's spotlight: the return of patio fires. Hooray!

Have a good week. xo.

Posted by Alicia at 9:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

May your eggs be chocolaty and easy to find.

May your meals be big and loud and joyful and together.

May your little ones stay out of the mud for just a photo or two.

May your cascarones be festive. and soft-ish.

May your rolls be sticky and sweet.

Have a wonderful weekend!

p.s. I think I've solved most of my technical problems. If you see anything weird, please let me know.

Posted by Alicia at 11:38 AM | Permalink | Comments (10)

Hey there! How's your Monday morning treating you?

We did indeed get ice and snow, but not as much as they originally predicted. The temps never dropped below 32º F and everything is already nearly melted. I dare say all of the flowering and budding trees are a-ok!

What a nice weekend- I had a mural job, we had dinner with new friends, and we're dangerously close to some basement "after" photos. Oh, and there was a very melty snowman too.

I thought while I'm here, I'd show you this other quick thing. Last week I made these two little clips for N and her best friend. Ten minutes and two happy little ones.

These two little girlies. They warm my heart. They are like peas and carrots.

Posted by Alicia at 8:32 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)

Hello. Yesterday I was sick in bed all day long with something fast and furious. Food poisoning maybe? I just can't think of much questionable I could have eaten. But just so you know, I have the absolute BEST husband in the whole world. I feel bad for the rest of you. Wink.

I'm MUCH better today, but I have that weak feeling. Sort of hungry, mostly not. Very thirsty and in a daze.

Brian told me this morning that it is supposed to snow tomorrow. I just checked the weather forecast and their saying 8-11 inches?!?! Seriously?! I've been frantically cutting all the daffodils in our yard and putting them in vases. It is very cheerful in here. I'm hoping the best for the flowering trees and our lilacs and raspberries. Please come back Spring.

(Have a great weekend!)

Posted by Alicia at 11:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (14)

I just wanted to pop in and say that I'll be taking a little internet break since my kiddos are on Spring Break. Well, I'll still be over at the Noticing Project daily. Don't forget to keep playing along over there while I'm gone.

I just can't post without a photo, so here are some cupcakes to look at.

xo,

Alicia

Posted by Alicia at 9:53 PM | Permalink

Thank goodness! The daffs are happy too, I do believe.

Happy Tuesday!

p.s. Don't forget to keep playing along at the Noticing Project. You can notice (enter) every day if you fancy.

Posted by Alicia at 10:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (6)

This makes me laugh every time I look at it.

• • • • • • •

We woke up to a good 4 or 5 inches of snow this morning. And it's supposed to be 70º F by the end of the week. Both of these things make me very happy.

• • • • • • •

We're starting a little something new at the Noticing Project next week. Please come play along.

• • • • • • •

It's the last day of February. Hallelujah!

Posted by Alicia at 11:55 AM | Permalink | Comments (6)

My mom and dad got the kids the BEST, happiest yellow ceramic mugs for Valentine's Day. They love them. (I do too.) When I washed them, the faces slid right off. So I had to paint them back on with ceramic paint I had in the craft closet. They're not as perfect as they were, but they're still pretty darn happy. The kids don't seem to care.

Happy Monday.

Happy Yellow Week. We can all use a little sunny yellow in February.

Posted by Alicia at 9:41 AM | Permalink | Comments (12)

Warm and sunny, cold and stormy, warm and sunny, cold and stormy. Crazy early spring weather! (Although it's not really spring yet.) I peeked out a minute ago because the sun was shining, but I heard raindrops. The low warm sun was making the Sweetgum balls glow orange against an approaching storm.

Very pretty! And already with only a few sprinkles, the storm clouds blew away and out came the sun.

Happy Friday to you.

Posted by Alicia at 9:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)

One child is back at school, but one child is still under the weather. One mama is stir-crazy, browsing through cookbooks and surfing the net, folding laundry and administering medication.

And here is my (mixed) message for today. Don't buy too much stuff. And don't let anyone make you think you need more stuff. BUT if you have the money to spend, please buy from the little guy, the independent artist. We're having a rough go of it lately. Wouldn't something from one of these folks make a better, more meaningful valentine's gift for one of your sweeties?

•Heather's "finding winter, drawing spring" collection. Heather personifies talent and dedication.
•Rachel's amazing valentines cards and photographs. Love.
•Heather's mantra quilts. Meaningful and personalizable.
•Book of Days. The gift that keeps on giving.
•Anything from Abby. What an eye. She'll be back soon.
•My cousin (in-law) makes fabulous funky jewelry. I'm coveting this pendant.
•Sara+h's photos are wonderful too.
•You know how I love Veronica's birdies.

Really I could go on and on...

Stay healthy, ok?

Posted by Alicia at 11:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (13)

You guys. You're just the best. Thank you for all the sweet messages! I really hated to leave such a sour-puss post holding my place for the next week or so. I thought I'd leave you with this message from my appletini last night instead:

NOW, I'm taking a little break. Until soon...

xo.

Posted by Alicia at 6:59 PM | Permalink

Hello. Feeling funny. Feeling too wanty and jealous and inadequate. (My photos will never be as good as ________. My paintings will never compare to __________. My house will never look like _________. Why can't I have ________ too?) I hate feeling like this. I need to snap out of it. I think need a break. Off Bloglines. Off Flickr. Off Facebook. Except for my NP photos and Echoes next Tuesday.

Yesterday was sunny and 60 and we went to the park for a long time. We have dinner plans with friends tonight. And a houseful expected for the second birthday extravaganza weekend. All steps in the right direction.

See you soon- it's almost time again. I'm pondering coming back in February with a vengeance, hopefully feeling better.

Hug, hug. Kiss, kiss.

Posted by Alicia at 12:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (40)

With eyes half-closed I shuffled down this morning to let out the dog and make the coffee, just like I always do. I was greeted by the most surprising, beautiful blanket of snow. It actually made me gasp.

I figure if it's really going to be something like 12º F today, we might as well have snow.

There was one short trip to fetch and deliver birthday doughnuts to school. (Another surprise. This one for J's teacher- oh she looked just thrilled with the prospect of indoor recess AND Krispy Kremes. Hee hee.) Now N and I are home to stay, to watch the snow and bake something. Maybe bread though I know she'll vote cookies.

You stay safe and warm this weekend.

Posted by Alicia at 10:03 AM | Permalink | Comments (14)

for today.

a chance of snow.
a little painting.
a trip to a dentist (or two.)
something soft for dinner- for the little girl with a sore tooth. mashed potatoes?
keeping an eye on an old dog with a sick tummy.

Posted by Alicia at 9:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)

Even though I'm home during the day, I still do love a good Friday.

I caught up on my Virtual Quilting Bee squares yesterday. Hooray! I was feeling pretty guilty about them. September people. That's how far behind I was. You can click through to Flickr to see details about the squares and the group if you'd like.

The house is still clean which makes the livin' eas(ier). It was one of my big goals last year to keep the house more "drop in" ready. And we did well. Some of my friends (you know who you are) will say our home is always clean, but oh how wrong you are. I'm a SLOB at heart. I kid you not. Ask my mom. Ask my college roommates. But we have found the secret to keeping it clean. I swear. Are you ready?

It's the 20 minute power tidy at the end of every day. After the kids are in bed but before we plop down on the couch, we BOTH (and that's an important part) spend 15-20 minutes putting all the stuff away that found its way out during the day: toys, dishes, laundry, papers, books, mail, the list goes on and on. If we work together, it's so much quicker and makes life more peaceful. It even makes the next morning go more smoothly. And I can handle the vacuuming, dusting, mopping more quickly if there's not so much stuff to pick up. If, for whatever reason we don't do it, the next day always starts off badly. So that's it. That's the big secret! I am just positive that we are the first people ever to discover this. ; )

Anyway, it's Friday and we have some fun plans for the weekend plus we're getting further on the basement project all the time.

Happy happy Friday, friends.

Posted by Alicia at 10:51 AM | Permalink | Comments (16)

Hello there, brand new year. And hello, friends.

I have a long list of personal goals for the year, but I think I'll keep them where they are- inside my head. Maybe I'll write them down, but I won't bore you. Last year treated me pretty well, but I do love a nice clean sheet of paper, don't you? Ooooo... with a newly sharpened pencil.

I will tell you my biggest resolution: to let go. Let go of the things that weigh me down and try to feel lighter. Speak more softly to my children. Worry less. Float along and smile more.

Wish me luck.

........................................................................................................................................

If you visited the Noticing Project this last year, thank you. We had a great time, and we're so happy you shared it with us. Honestly I'm quite proud of the accomplishment. I keep looking at the archive page and grinning from ear to ear.

We're excited to continue on another year! Noticing Project {2009} has moved and has a different format, but the intent is the same. We won't be sharing all the diptychs at Flickr, so we hope you'll join us at the new site.

........................................................................................................................................

Happy New Year!

Posted by Alicia at 9:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (16)

Yes I am. I'm done- done as I'm going to be. No holiday cards this year, oh well. Perhaps valentines will be better anyway. My girlfriend gifts will have to wait for a bit too. I've made as much as I'm going to make, bought as much as I can buy.

It's time to breathe deeply and soak it all in. I'm ready for a bit of travel, some time at home, good food and family. The shop is closed up. The blog will be quiet. I'll still be posting my NP photos, but other than that, I'll see you in the new year!

Much love and peace to you all this holiday season!

Posted by Alicia at 2:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (25)

Here's what I've been up to:

Discounting items in my shop- 20% off until December 19th! And I pulled the dolls- there's just no way I could get them finished and shipped before the holidays- sorry.

Doing a little Christmas shopping- I (ahem) talked to Santa on the phone to make sure he and the elves could make (ahem) a remote control aircraft carrier that really floats. By golly, he can. I know for certain he can make an ironing board with an iron. ; )

Making some gifts- still designing the teepee in my head. It's going to be quite a challenge to construct that on the sly.

Doggy sitting-

Digging out the holiday decorations- found the advent calendar one day late. Oh, well. We'll do two fun things one day.

Playing Monopoly- known here as Ponopoly. The game that never ends. He sure does love it, though.

I hope you're up to something fun today!

Posted by Alicia at 10:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (8)

It was a wonderful day- hectic while getting ready, loud during (21 of us in all) and calm after.

Just exactly as it should be. I am feeling very grateful.

A pleasant side effect of hosting: the house is clean and there are plenty of left-overs to enjoy!

Posted by Alicia at 11:15 AM | Permalink | Comments (6)

Poof! Where'd Monday go?
It's a brisk but sunny Tuesday morning here. How is it where you are?

I am making a list as always. It's a little bit pitiful when two of my list items are to make more lists (grocery and christmas lists). Hmmmm. At least these lists help me feel more organized even if I'm not.

The basement is moving along slowly but surely. We're painting now. There was more construction and prep work than expected, which is of course to be expected. You'd think- 11 years and two houses later- we'd have learned that lesson.

I'm hosting Thanksgiving so today's list includes brining the turkey and making my grocery list. And making pumpkin muffins, but that's just a treat for us this afternoon. : )

I always make something for my kids for one of their Christmas gifts. J wants a tee pee. I have big plans, but I'm wondering how to transport 7' dowels to St. Louis for Christmas without giving it away. N wants a crown. At least that one is pretty easy.

I think this may be all you see of me this week here- it's cooking and cleaning and kids out of school time.

Happy Thanksgiving to you! (Eat a bunch, k?)

Posted by Alicia at 8:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (13)

art will take you places.

I love it- thanks go to a flickr friend for that one. Hope you're having a nice weekend!

Posted by Alicia at 4:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)

Well then. Hello there. That was a good day!

Thank you SO MUCH for all the wonderful birthday wishes. As we were climbing into bed last night, I told Bri, "It makes me really really happy to have so many friends and family tell me happy birthday." It makes me feel loved. That is a great feeling.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

Here is my list for today:

1. Fried eggs are so yummy. I ate two this morning. (and that's really unlike me.)
2. I have really good friends.
3. A few of my best ones are coming over tonight for homemade pizza.
4. I'm starting on my handmade Christmas gifts.
a. making will increase.
b. sharing will decrease. (hello, peekers. you know who you are.)
5. I vow to make this skirt for myself for the holidays. Time to hunt down that magazine.
6. I hope to make this dress for N for the holidays thanks to another good friend.
7. N says really cute things:
a. "look mom. those leaves are waving goodbye to the sky."
b. "now there's something you don't see everyday."
c. to her teachers- "guess what. my brother is allergic to me." (huh?!)
d. "mommy. you are my best."
8. Brian is taking next week off and we're starting in earnest on the basement. This means:
a. some minor-ish construction.
b. A LOT of painting.
c. some tile work.
d. finding and installing a new bar sink and faucet.
e. more painting.
f. laying carpet tiles. (local peeps- the ReStore has really high quality, good looking FLOR-ish carpet tiles right now.)
g. a couple of cool art projects.
h. driving around town entering every contest for a flat screen t.v. we can find. We (Brian) really wants a "big-ass" television down there and we for sure don't have the money. Think that will work?
9. I won't be around much next week because of list items 8 a-h.
10. If I find time, I might try to submit a couple of photos to the s t i l l : body challenge over here.

11. Be good and have a great weekend!

Posted by Alicia at 11:17 AM | Permalink | Comments (12)

AGAIN.

Wink, wink. I do believe I'll just stay put, thankyouverymuch. The pendulum is tipping just a bit too much towards forty.

Me? Big dork. Being goofy keeps you young, right?

Posted by Alicia at 11:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (35)

It's grey actually- cold and grey, but here's a little green to brighten things up:

•a gift from my mom. A super-groovy fondue pot. I love it.

•working on Melissa's square for the VQB. It is real, real bad. Now don't start saying it isn't- this picture is flattering. It. is. UGly.
Back to the sketch pad.

And speaking of brightening, (knock, knock) the sun might peek through this afternoon!

Posted by Alicia at 9:52 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)

We voted early. Did you vote yet? Well, go get in line then. ; )

I'm feeling a little anxious and a lot hopeful.

How are you feeling?

Posted by Alicia at 10:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (13)

and I love it. It's one of my favorite nights of the year.

The weather was perfect. I mean perfect. There were friends and beers and big pots of soup and a fire pit and tricking and treating and a certain ladybug and ship captain who ate too much candy and an outdoor movie and really, it was all just perfect.

I mean perfect.

Posted by Alicia at 4:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (11)

Every stitch of laundry in the house is done and put away- and I didn't do it!

My library fine magically disappeared.

Nine(!) sets of holiday card photos have been taken for friends, edited, mailed or delivered.

The holiday shopping season is nearly upon us.

There are some new items in my shop. (see how I worked those things in together?! wink.)

My wrists are toasty warm in my new fingerless glove/wrist warmers from Erin. (she sent TWO sets. thanks, Erin!)

One extra artist apron is on its way to Erin and another to Lisa.

Maw Maw, Brian's mom, was here for several days, but now she's gone home. (now you see how all these things above happened, don't you?!)

Chicken soup is simmering on the stove.

Halloween costumes are hanging upstairs in the hallway, almost ready.

The very last collection has been posted at echoes.

Echoes is on hiatus until the new year.

These things are on my list next: catch up on VQB squares. an overdue birthday gift for my niece.

Sheeesh! Did I mention Maw Maw was here?! It's amazing what difference a little babysitting can make.

Posted by Alicia at 1:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (13)

* autumn findings in my father's bowl by Heather Smith Jones (now in her shop!)
** my target tote
*** my coffee and the book.

...........................

* Can this dark blue-green be my Fall color, please? It was Heather's photo that did it. I decided when I first laid my eyes on that bowl, it should be my color for the season.

** I've been wanting a larger tote to hold my stuff which usually includes two cameras, so when I ran across this bag on super clearance at Target I took it as a sign that it was okay to break our newly imposed No Unnecessary Spending Rule. I'm calling it a business expense.

*** It's a wonderful book indeed and a wonderful gesture from a dear friend.

...........................

It's Tuesday and that means a new set of collections will be up at Echoes later today!

Posted by Alicia at 10:44 PM | Permalink | Comments (18)

Happy Friday to you!

Yesterday I was feeling oddly weepy. Then someone did something sweet for me, and it made me weepier- for totally different reasons.

But today is a new day! I had a good night's sleep and a tasty breakfast with hot coffee. It's Friday. I have a stack of things I'm working on. I have that sweet surprise to look forward to. The weather is amazing. Friends are good; life is good.

I had this crazy friend in high school named Merrill. Every Friday he would hop up on the table in the ceramics studio and holler, "Woooooo Hoooooo! It's Friday!" And then he'd dance around up there to this song. It was the best, complete with that "we're young and invincible and it's nearly the weekend" feeling.

I have just a bit of that feeling today.

I'm off now to dig out my old scratched up Steve Miller Band cd. Happy Weekend!

Posted by Alicia at 10:12 AM | Permalink | Comments (15)

about which you may or may not care to hear. ; )

A long-time mural client asked me to girlie up this sweet little table and chairs. Of course N wanted to test its tea party compatibility. Her verdict? It's good. Real good.

I've got the Fall cleaning bug. We cleaned out the garage Saturday. My car fits in there again! I cleaned out the pantries yesterday only to discover a lot of my rice and pasta was infested with tiny little black bugs. Ick. So now I need to go to the grocery store too.

The station wagon is full of Goodwill items, which means a quick stop inside that store as well. BUT the financial guy was here yesterday which always prompts me to tighten things up the purse strings even more, so I must be careful. Yes. VERY careful.

The bathrooms are gross. They need a good cleaning. And what to make for dinner- always problematic. Although yesterday I made a big batch of biscuits and gravy and cut up some fruit. Now that was a nice, easy comfort meal.

Good thing that pesky cold and lethargy is gone. My to do list keeps growing and growing!

____________________

Yesterday was Echoes day. I think it's a good one- go see.

And don't miss this interview with Heather. She is the sweetest, most hardworking artist (friend) I know.

Posted by Alicia at 11:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (9)

just feeling a little blah and bored. I think it's the weather- too much rain. I've done fun stuff and have good plans, but I'm having trouble feeling very excited. All I really want to do is stay home, bake brownies and clean out closets. SO weird.

I owe a few emails, but my computer is freaking out. The dashboard keeps frantically appearing on its own, rapid-fire style, open close open close, dink dink dink dink. It makes that noise when it does it. I gave up this morning and made an appointment at the genius bar and poof! the problem stopped. Kind of like when I was 8 days overdue with J and just scheduling the induction made me go into labor.

Well not at all the same, really.

Posted by Alicia at 11:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (12)

except that she loves her too-big sparkly shoes. and also that I still love film.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

SO... we were planning a quick nearby camping trip for the weekend. But the weather has suddenly turned very Fallish. This morning it was 49 when we woke up, and there's a chance of rain all weekend. To perk up their disappointed and drooping faces, we may instead watch a dvd on the the side of my mom and dad's garage, eat take-out in front of the fire pit, and sleep in the tent in their big back yard. At least if it does rain or gets too cold, we can make the speedy dash home. (Have I told you we live two blocks from my mom and dad? We do.)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Also unrelated, I didn't mention here that we're switching things up at Echoes for the Fall. Go check it out. We're excited!

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

I am hoping to add some items to my shop over the next few weeks- artist aprons maybe, a couple of paintings, maybe even some small works on paper inspired by the original idea at Echoes. I won't set a date- that's too much pressure- but I'll let you know if I've added anything.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Can anyone teach me how to knit those cool fingerless glove wrist warmers? I want some. Are they difficult? Would they be an awful first knitting project for me? I was thinking a large scarf/wrap/shawl thing might be easier, but I can't find a pattern for what I'm looking for. I want simple, plain, like a large rectangle with a strategically placed button or two. My friend Penny wears a similar one that I've got stuck in my head. Any suggestions? Leslie? Jen? Anyone?

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Well, it's taken me all morning in little bits to write this mostly worthless post. I better call it quits.

Happy Weekend!!

Posted by Alicia at 10:14 AM | Permalink | Comments (11)

A sudden storm rolled through yesterday evening with a heavy downpour and thunder and lightening. (And a rogue overhead crack of thunder at about 9 pm that sent Brian and me both scrambling off the couch away from the big speech to check our trees!) And there was cool air on the other side. In August. Who'd a thunk it? The grass here is still green green not the usual crinkly lifeless brown we see this time of year. Strange and all together fabulous.

I am so very much looking forward to this long weekend. The week kind of got away from me, so I have a long list today to accomplish. Things to wrap up and ship off. A bit of cleaning. A couple of errands. Maybe some baking. This household has a hankering for sitting outside and relaxin'. (Yo, Rach. If you find yourself bored, hungry and/or lonely, head over.)

But first, I am going in for another cup of coffee and to sneak some peach cobbler for breakfast. If you have kids, you know what I mean.

HAPPY WEEKEND!

Posted by Alicia at 8:33 AM | Permalink | Comments (17)

good morning chickadees!

Wow! Thank you all so much for entering the give-away!! You sure know how to flatter a girl.

I had a small assistant pick the winner. Can you see it? This particular assistant often has a hard time holding still. It reads: Bluebirdbaby. Erin, email me your address. I'll send the bag right away.

Of course there is one more tote in the shop, discounted quite a bit. I'll leave it in there for a few more days.

My other good news is that I'm guest blogging at Uncommon Grace today! I'm so tickled to be a part of the guest line-up (pun intended) she's hosting. You ought to go read all the 'Summer Is' series- lovely women with lovely pictures and words to make you appreciate these last fleeting days of summer. Fall is on deck, my friends. (pun intended again. hee hee.) Soak it up.

HAVE A GREAT DAY!

Posted by Alicia at 9:17 AM | Permalink | Comments (6)

I'll tell you about a project involving this book.

. . . . . . . . .

And I'm having a little give-away.
(that doesn't involve the book.)

Come back, ok?

Posted by Alicia at 2:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (10)

I'm breaking my no-kid-faces rule, just for today. Our little friend Zoe has been coming to our house every Wednesday for years. She's the daughter of one of my best friends in the world. This photo was one of the first times she stayed. For a while if you asked her who her brother was, she'd say J. They really are the best of friends- all three of them. When we go out and about, people often comment how much "all" my kids look alike and how cute they are together. Instead of explaining the whole thing, I often just say, "Yes. Thanks!"

But time flies, people. It really does. Heading off to all-day kindergarten next week, today is her last day here with us. We had a little lunch party in the backyard with friends, grilled hot-dogs, cake, chips, cookies, and water play. I told her she was our guest of honor. She said "Oh, Leeshie, I'm not a guest here." Of course not, sweetie.

They are in there now, watching "Night at the Museum" and playing and bickering like siblings.

We do love her so.

Posted by Alicia at 3:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (16)

My local bloggy friends know how I feel about "look what I got posts" and I'll explain that** in a minute. But hey, girls, forget that for a sec because, um, look at this!

This necklace is from Lisa Leonard. Isn't it just beautiful? I wanted something sort of peaceful, something to remind me to live in the moment. And Brian suggested the word 'today' as a nice reminder to not fuss over the rest. I've been wearing it almost constantly since it arrived. It is perfect.

Lisa is a talented jewelry artist and everything in her shop is pretty much amazing. Her blog is so pretty and yet honest; she seems like a genuinely sweet person. I really am honored to own one of her necklaces. I may have to order my sister a little belated birthday gift.

** So, now about the my statement above, I really don't want to offend anyone and get all negative. I love new stuff as much as the next gal. But we live pretty darn well on a smallish income and that means very few fun extras. If I read too many posts in a day about fancy camera lenses and sewing machines and big bundles of Japanese fabrics and fancy shoes and bags, I feel myself getting all annoyed and wanty and jealous. Usually it just means it's time to shut off the computer for awhile.

BUT I do see the huge value of reciprocal advertising for hardworking artists and small-time designers. After all, isn't that one of the benefits of this little community? And I love it when folks post a little bit about something I've made!

I didn't mean to turn this post into a discussion on consumerism, so that's all I have to say about that. ; )**

ANYWAY, I love my new necklace and it makes me very happy. Thanks, Lisa.

Posted by Alicia at 10:48 AM | Permalink | Comments (36)

Hello, all. I just realized that I haven't posted a thing here since Monday. Sorry about that- we've been awfully busy trying to soak up every last bit of summer.

J and I made the lemon bars. They were yummy. Now they're gone. Just a bit too tart for her, N declared them "not really very tasty", but that just left more for the rest of us. I am sorry I really couldn't sit down and have one with all of you. Wouldn't that be fun?!

And now we're planning a little bit of extended put-up-our-feet time. I'll still be posting at the NP but probably not at Echoes. So I'll see you in a week or so.

Take good care, friends!

Posted by Alicia at 5:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (7)

was it ever... sigh.

We had a wonderful trip. We camped with friends the first few days then by ourselves in a very quiet campground a few days more. We don't exactly rough-it, but we're not afraid to get dirty (and a little stinky!). It was perfect.

We swam every day. We saw bugs and a turtle and raccoons and bald eagles (oh my!) We hiked. Mid-week we ate a nice meal with Heather, Matt and Rachel in town. We hung around in the hammock. We stayed up late laughing. We went to bed early yawning. We cooked over the fire. We hated to leave.

Home for several days now, we've been moving in vacation time. It's been so nice. I love my little family.

The camping photos are all film, but I'm thrilled that my digital camera is finally home. The Noticing Project will now return to regularly scheduled programming. And I'll be back posting journal entries at Echoes.

Happy Monday, my good friends. Have a great week!

Posted by Alicia at 12:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (14)

We're almost all packed up for a camping trip, so you won't hear from me for a bit. I can't wait to unplug and unwind. It's been a hectic week.

We're taking next week off at the Noticing Project. Gasp! I know. We'll be back the week after.

My camera will be home soon. All fixed up for free! Gotta love Canon.

Thank you for being so enthusiastic about Echoes. And thanks for playing along!

I work so hard at eating healthy and pesticide free and live in an environmentally friendly manner. So I feel really conflicted because today I've scheduled to have our home sprayed with poison. Alas, we can't let these critters take over now can we? Ick. They're bad.

Hey, do me a favor. Go over and wish Heather and Matt a happy anniversary. OK? They are about the sweetest couple ever.

It's Friday! Have a great weekend, folks.

Posted by Alicia at 9:53 AM | Permalink | Comments (11)

Grace and her family came and stayed with us for a few days on their way through town.

We introduced them to fireflies! (and mosquitoes and chiggers.) They introduced us to some fairies who left behind magic dust.

We relaxed and talked. We traded baby dolls. The kids all became instant best buddies.

I also introduced her to some local friends. We laughed. and laughed. and laughed.

(Sweet Chris took this photo. I borrowed it. I had to. Look at Laura - that's how we felt all evening.)

And then they were gone. Have a safe and wonderful adventure, my good friends.

Posted by Alicia at 10:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (14)

tulips (in pots) that my dad brought me.
beautiful, springtime weather predicted all weekend.
fluffy little white clouds floating by.
little girl back to herself again. *sigh of relief*
many errands done, clean car, oil changed.
long lists of outdoor tasks.
long list of studio tasks.
(today, both somehow make me feel invigorated not overwhelmed.)
grilling tonight. and a fire of course!
thinking about a camping trip.

MUCH to smile about today.
I hope you find something to smile about too.
(next week: just photos from me, and a shop update Tuesday.)

Posted by Alicia at 12:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (11)

Well, then. I didn't think things could get much worse on the illness front. Lordy, I was wrong. I felt sure I had dodged the stomach flu bullet, you know taking care of and cleaning up for the sicklies the last two weeks without getting it. But I awoke early yesterday morning, and I had it. Did I ever. And the aches? The aching pain in my hip sockets was almost unbearable. I found myself doing this low-in-the-throat humming thing that I involuntarily did when I was in labor. as in childbirth. Man-oh-man.

NOW, things are looking up. The evidence: At about 8:45 a.m., just as I was pondering what I might be able to eat, there was a knock at the door. It was my friend, Penny. She handed me a box of fruit-juice popsicles and blew me a kiss. An angel from heaven, that's what she is. And at nap time I found this. Heather! All of you! Thank you. I am so thankful for you all. Lastly I am thankful for my dearest friend of all- Brian. Not a word was said yesterday. He just knew. He stayed home from work, entertained Miss N, ran about 100 errands to keep the house quiet, delivered gatorade with a bendy straw, tylenol, back rubs.

Thank you. I mean it.

(Speaking of friends- that's N's bunny buddy up there at the top. Isn't he sweet?! He's pretty tame too.)

Posted by Alicia at 2:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (12)

So last week was really strange. Poor little N was not herself. A bad cold + the stomach flu + a wheezing cough + a prednisone intolerance = one crabby kid. There seems to be a twinkle in her eye this morning and a tiny bit of cereal in her tummy, so we're hoping for a better week.

(she's trying to feed a baby bunny.)

I had more than a minor meltdown on Friday. My mom swooped in with a plate of spring rolls and a shoulder to cry on. Then my in-laws arrived and dear Maw Maw lovingly took over a great deal of the cuddling, nose wiping, and coaxing to eat of the sickly girl. Moms are so good. Thanks, my moms, for rescuing me, another very fatigued mom. I love you both.

Lifting my funk further were a lovely evening at the carnival and a Mother's Day brunch with the whole family here at our house. And the rolls. Of course, a big batch of cinnamon rolls never hurt anyone. Things are on the upswing.

(waiting to be frosted. yum.)

I'm still planning my shop update, but I'm going to put it off until Tuesday, the 20th. I have several things in various stages of completion, but I really don't want to stress over it this week. I just want a nice quiet week to regain our mental and physical health.

You guys take care of yourselves!

Posted by Alicia at 9:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (23)

on a friday afternoon:

nice weather is much less scary than stormy weather.

no flower in the world is better than a lilac. i'm sure of that.

the Noticing Project is officially 33.33% finished. some days I just sit and look at the archive page. it makes me happy.

your Guest Week photographs are amazing. THANK YOU.

my sweetie is sick. home from work sick. head in the toilet sick. poor thing.

and tomorrow is our eleven year anniversary. bummer. (the sick part not the eleven years part.)

tuesday's Shop Mayfly update is still on. it will be sewn items this time- artist totes and a few new things too.

george w. sent me a check. so i'll be stimulating some old-camera-repair-guy economy now. yippee!

i'm hoping each of you has a wonderful weekend!

Posted by Alicia at 5:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (12)

like poking a nesting goose in the butt with a stick. Or wasting a big batch of homemade yogurt, which were two things that happened. (don't worry- we told the boys to stop poking!)

Thankfully, I don't have bad seasonal allergies, but yesterday I woke up with itchy eyes and the sneezles, so I took a Claritin. I was in a sleepy fog all day. I made a batch of yogurt from my favorite local milk and left it on the counter to cool... all night long. I'm blaming it on the allergy. I'm not feeling at all sniffley today. Perhaps I'll attempt another batch.

We're planning something special over at the Noticing Project next week. Heather and I want you to Be Our Guest. We're betting you are noticing some fantastic things these days. Please share them with us!

And lastly, we (especially N) was thinking about you yesterday, our favorite little Earth Day baby. You're really not much of a baby anymore, huh? Hope you had a wonderful birthday! Maybe we'll Skype you later.

Take care, friends!

Posted by Alicia at 8:23 AM | Permalink | Comments (7)

Hello, friends! We're fine here, how are you? My dad will call soon and say, "You haven't updated your blog in awhile." I know. There's so much to see and do and make and not quite enough hours in a day. I'm sorry if I seem quiet.

We've been busy playing soccer, cooking, reading, enjoying the slow unfolding of Spring, taking photographs (always!), studying spelling words, building a fancy closet (more on this soon), helping out at school, working in the yard. You know- making lists. And checking things off lists. All the while watching children grow at lightening speed. Good stuff- Exhausting stuff.

I still have several long overdue baby gifts to share and some ideas to bounce around. I'm planning a shop update soon, maybe around the 21st, if I can eek out time to work on some of these new ideas.

I hope you're all doing well. Take care, my little cabbages.

Posted by Alicia at 10:10 AM | Permalink | Comments (9)

We're having a little bit of a hard time. Poor little N is still sick. She's been up in the night for several nights. She feels unwell. I feel tired and crabby. I feel guilty for being crabby. Brian is tired too, and I get mad at him for saying he has a meeting. Yeah. I wish I had a meeting. The washer broke, so I'm up to my ears in dirty sheets and clothes (that special kind of dirty that is such a treat for the mother of a three year old with the stomach flu.) Brian fixed the machine last night so I'm trying to catch up. J is bored and tired of scrambled eggs and leftovers for dinner. The weather is lovely, so I hear. N and I are missing it. We really haven't been outside since Saturday.

Everything is on hold. These canvases have been patiently basking in the sunlight for days. We'll catch up soon, paints and brushes.

I think I'm going to take a few days off here as well while we all recover. I hope to catch up with all of you soon too.

Until then, STAY WELL.

Posted by Alicia at 9:33 AM | Permalink | Comments (32)

sticky sweet hugs and kisses to you.

may you get a little taste of something special today!

p.s. I forgot to mention that the basic idea for these lolly flowers came from here. If you're ever at a loss for ideas for ANY holiday, Cindy is where it's at.

Posted by Alicia at 10:13 AM | Permalink | Comments (11)

Ba dum bum. It's a bouquet of baby doll arms. Get it? Ok, sorry.

A few baby dolls ship in a day or two, and one blond will head to the shop after all- maybe next week. I'll let you know.

I got tons of paperwork and accounting done this weekend. It always surprises me that my (very!) small business can be so complicated to keep straight. But it is done, and a huge weight has lifted off my shoulders. Now we tackle the taxes, which of course, is not a complicated proposition at all. (wink.) The rest of the weekend was filled with exactly what we all needed: french toast, tickle fights, smoked ribs and pasta salad, a little painting, some sewing, pancakes, a little Rufus Wainwright. Maybe more than a little. Brian is sick of him, but I'm addicted.

We have a busy week ahead of us- good busy- but words from me may still be scant.

Happy Monday Morning!!

Posted by Alicia at 9:22 AM | Permalink | Comments (11)

Surely by now you've seen Six One Way. It's a heartfelt little photographic collaboration, and now we can all play along. Thanks, ladies. You're both pretty cool.

Here's our first contribution:

The newest round of colds (the kids) and a quick but painful bout of food poisoning (the mom) has left me feeling a little behind and without much to say. I'm going to take a few days off here, ok? But of course I'll still be posting photos over at the Noticing Project.

Have a great week, guys!

Posted by Alicia at 8:48 AM | Permalink | Comments (11)

I promised handmade somethings to share, but the plan was foiled. Feverish and coughing his way around the house, the boy was home from school for two days. He's better now, though the cough still sounds low in his chest. And this morning a certain someone else, tinier and in pink pj's, is coughing. Winter. Blah. February first. Cold and gray. Here we go again (except I'm not going to post everyday.)

I have several paintings in beginning stages, ideas for some shop surprises, a mural painting job this weekend. I'm working on six custom ordered baby dolls: three blonds, two brunettes, and a red head. And always taking the photographs. Always. Oooo... and the quilting bee starts this month. I'm trying to head off the sinking winter feeling by keeping busy. Think it'll work?

To get your mind off my annoying whining and lack of fun things to show you, here are seven random things about me (tagged by Lauren and Heather, way back when.) I did this one once before. I'm not that interesting. This is hard.

1. I love bacon. A LOT.

2. I hate laundry. A LOT! I bet there are 10 loads down there to be done right now. At our old house when he was still a baby, J rolled right down the stairs to our basement. It was scary, but I swear the giant pile of laundry on the bottom landing saved him. ; )

3. I love wine and coffee. But I don't know a thing about either. Cheap wine tastes fine to me, and we borrowed a French press from my mom to try it out. It was annoying. I gave it back.

4. I have a poetry phobia. I try. I really do. It just makes me feel dumb. (Any suggestions? Mary Oliver is lovely, but she tends to lean towards the religious, which intimidates me even more.)

5. We are very environmental, but I really cannot limit my hot shower. I don't have the will power in the morning.

6. I don't bite my nails, but I pick at my cuticles all of the time.

7. Things I aspire to be but probably never will: a runner. a Buddhist. an organic farmer. an architect. a neat freak. stylish.

Enough about me. How are you all doing this February first?

Posted by Alicia at 8:58 AM | Permalink | Comments (27)

Good morning, everyone! Photo-less posts depress me, so here are a few pretty pictures from others. Please click through to Flickr to see the credits. And while you're enjoying their neutral-palleted loveliness, I have a few quick things to mention.

First, please let me say how happy we BOTH are with your response to our Noticing Project. We are having great fun, and it is so gratifying that you are responding so positively. It's thrilling actually. Links and mentions have been popping up all over our little bloggy-world. Thank you from the bottom of my extremely happy heart.

Second, it appears that Shari is leading a winter whites photography/arts week next week and I'm all over that one. Therefore you may just be seeing double the photos from me all week. I'm terribly behind, and ideas are bursting out of the top of my head, which makes it all the more difficult to concentrate on the tasks at hand: Laundry. Making the bed. Preparing birthday party treats. So this challenge is very timely. If I comment less on your sites too, forgive me. I REALLY need to keep myself on task. OK?

Third, to my local peeps, stay warm and cozy this weekend!!! Yikes! 3 degrees is not enough.

Posted by Alicia at 9:34 AM | Permalink | Comments (14)

for us and for the birds.

I'll be taking a break from this website for the holidays, but you know I can't resist the Flickr. If you think you might be the recipient of a little handmade treat from me, don't go snooping around over there! Unless you've got your heart set on ruining the surprise.

I'll be back in January. May the next few weeks be filled with peace and warmth, love and laughter for us all. And may this magic linger throughout the new year...

Cheers!

Posted by Alicia at 4:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (15)

I love these deer. They're old. Probably as old as I am. Their plastic-y dime store glory pleases me a lot. I swiped them from my parent's Christmas box last weekend. Thanks, Mom.

It's officially winter break. J climbed in bed with me this morning and said, "Thursday is N's day at school, and I'm supposed to be at school, so if we were both at school, you'd have some quiet time, wouldn't you?" Uh huh. No quiet time for me. It's ok. I'm ready for some holiday fun with my family. They seem to be adjusting to this down time quite well already.

Thanks for all the advice on the camera. I *think* after your help and a call to the Canon help line, that I have narrowed it down to the card reader. Thankfully, that's the cheapest problem to remedy. Woo hoo!

After tomorrow I'll be signing off for the holidays. (It appears that I changed my mind about keeping quiet this week...)

Posted by Alicia at 9:32 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)

I am remembering this from yesterday:
____________________________________________

It's eerily quiet. The power has been off for a couple hours and the house is as still as it's ever been. I'm under a blanket on the couch, and I finish up as much of the crossword puzzle as I'm going to finish. I get up to look for something to eat. Not even bothering with a plate, I lean over the sink and eat a cold, leftover cheese and chicken quesadilla. It tastes really good. I stare out the window at the ice. It is so amazing. The icicles hang down off the trees like tinsel, off the power lines like party decorations. I cut a piece of gingerbread and eat it too. I look at the crumbs in the sink. Pouring some not-quite-cold milk, I realize there's a hum to home that disappears when the electricity goes off. I can hear the milk slosh into the glass. I can hear myself think.

I go upstairs to wake up my daughter. She's a light sleeper and usually sits straight up when I open her door. But the silence and the warmth of her down comforter has gotten the better of her. She's out. I sit on the edge of the bed for several minutes, studying the tiny veins in her closed eyelids, listening to the her rhythmic breathing. Suddenly she's a baby again. I see it in her face. I stroke her cheek and she opens her eyes and smiles. Hello, sweetheart. I carry her downstairs with her head on my shoulder and quietly get her ready to go pickup the big kids. We open the garage door and the noise and cold flood in.

____________________________________________

Do you ever have little bits of time like this? Everyday moments that are intensely enjoyable. Time slowed down and I could feel each second pass. We've been so busy fussing over things like auto loans, interest rates and origination fees. Power outages, food spoilage, tree limbs. Yet these few minutes of total calm were meaningful to me. I felt content.

I know you've got to be tired of seeing ice photos, but I couldn't help it. The sun came out and made everything sparkly. Yet when I lifted up the camera to capture what I saw, I couldn't! It's like taking pictures of the Grand Canyon. Sometimes you just can't get the scale and beauty of nature on film. (or cf card in this case.)

Tonight I'm making a special St. Lucia dinner- something I'm inventing as I go. We're going to eat by candlelight. The power was only out for a few hours, so candlelight has not worn out its welcome here. I hope to be able to share with you tomorrow.

Take good care.

Posted by Alicia at 10:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (25)

It's ice storming here. Our temps have been hovering just above 32º F, so for us it's been mostly rain. Some of our neighbors to the north have not been as lucky. Stay home, local friends. Feels like a good day to "call in tired" to me.

I had a bad day yesterday filled with nasty things like multiple furnace repair men, a cut knuckle and several band-aids, a demanding toddler, a mechanic who utters the forbidden T word about my dead station wagon. Sigh.

BUT school has been canceled today. We're all still in our jammies, except for poor daddy- be careful, Brian. We love you- and we've made plans to paint gift tags and bake gingerbread. And sit at the window to listen for the smoosh of big chunks of slushy ice falling and not the much scarier crack of tree limbs. (knock, knock, knock on this pressed wood substance that is the top of my desk.) Today may just redeem yesterday.

Stay safe and warm. Please.

Posted by Alicia at 8:17 AM | Permalink | Comments (16)

It is warm and cozy in here. One kid is off at school (feeling fine but with a secret stash of cough drops in his pocket.) The other is at nursery school. I have an egg and sharp cheddar cheese sandwich, a hot cup of coffee, baby doll hand-sewing in front of me.

and it's snowing.

I'm calling it good for the week. Happy weekend, my friends.

Posted by Alicia at 10:17 AM | Permalink | Comments (12)

I hope you all have a great week. We're off for a little Thanksgiving vacation.

May your turkey be moist, your mashed potatoes lumpy, and your belts loose. (seems like I said something very similar last year...)

See you next week! Take good care.

Posted by Alicia at 4:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (10)

I'm messing around this morning trying to take another self portrait. The weather is weird. It's cool and windy. One minute the sun is shining like crazy, the next it looks like it's thinking about storming.

Thank you all SO much for all the wonderful birthday wishes! Alas, there was no cake. But there were very yummy birthday cinnamon rolls and fresh squeezed orange juice for breakfast. And for dinner there was a little bit of fun out at a restaurant. Brian is in trouble.

Posted by Alicia at 10:24 AM | Permalink | Comments (11)

Doesn't thirty-five sound so much older than thirty- four?

I'm not complaining. My life couldn't be much more blessed than it is right now. I am exactly where I want to be.

Posted by Alicia at 1:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (49)

I always say Fall when speaking, but when I write I use Autumn. It's much more romantic.

Things that have pleased me in the last week:
The trees are turning for real now.
We had some good rain and now it's cool and crisp.
Soup season has begun.
I dug out some gloves for my morning walk.
I'm craving cinnamon in everything.

Autumn-y photos make me happy:
disappearing
a walk
friday

A few inspirational projects:
This vest. The entire outfit really. But in my size.
Lauren's in-progress Post-It Note quilt. Such perfect colors.

Not particularly Autumnal but worth visiting:
Rachel's new Etsy Shop. I hope she adds some of these soon. Eeeek!

Big plans for an Autumn day (with no school):
Sweet rolls and hot coffee.
Mail a package or two.
A little hike with cameras. Mine and his.
Snooping around a book store.

I'm putting together a requested tutorial for Monday. Then the rest of the week it'll just be photographs. I'm in need of a little break to make some art.

Have a great weekend!

Posted by Alicia at 10:39 PM | Permalink | Comments (14)

Oh, Internet. No, we're not breaking up. I just have been too busy to hang out. What's so important that I've neglected you so? Well. Let's see...

Painting the inside of a playhouse. Here's a peek. I've been there every free minute for a few weeks. Good things these clients live close. I have a feeling photos aren't going to do this little room justice. It might just end up pretty darn cute.

Redesigning this website. You like? (please say yes. please say yes.) I used to work for that company way back when. Now I maintain their website.

Reading this book. I'm hosting book club next week. The book is GREAT, and I do love my book club ladies.

Starting to get ready for my shop opening. The canvases are just about stretched. Time to gesso.

And the usual suspects: kids, toys, messes, meals with family, appointments, Cub Scout meetings, soccer practice, playing outside. Life.

I'd have to say, Internet, it feels healthy to take this little break from each other. I've needed it. I'll be back. I promise. I just need a little space.

{You know I still love you.}

Posted by Alicia at 4:47 PM | Permalink | Comments (13)

** the good **
Friday night pizza with friends and a quick walk through the art fair.
A sudden downpour that makes us run for the car, whooping and laughing the whole way.
(fun for us, but maybe not so much for the artists.)
Painting Saturday for the sweetest clients ever- I'm working on the inside of a playhouse. It's going to be SO cute! I'll post pictures when it's done.
A little yard work before dinner.
A sputnik fire to celebrate the last day of summer.

** the bad **
Little N gets tangled in her tiny lawn chair, does a face plant onto the patio, develops a huge goose egg on her forehead and scares us all royally. (she's just fine now.)
Waking up early Sunday with ANOTHER raging migraine, which is unscathed by a fancy migraine pill.
Packing up the family to take Mom to urgent care.
A shot in the butt of something that doesn't help much, but that makes me sleepy enough to keep more fancy migraine medicine down.
Missing valuable mural painting time sick in bed.
(It's been an unusually bad migraine month for me.)

This is the one I really hate: I'm going to have to push back the shop opening. The new date is Thursday, October 18. As soon as I committed myself to the first date, my time filled up with painting jobs. (Yay and Oy!) I have realized after studying my calendar that there is just no way to finish it all in time. I can't pass the murals by when they appear; they're too unpredictable. That's the beauty of being in control of your own online shop, right?

** and to end with more good **

When I squatted down to take the photo, I half expected a little elf to scurry off.

Happy Autumn, everyone! Well, or Spring- depending on where you are. ; ) Here's to the good outweighing the bad!

Posted by Alicia at 8:32 AM | Permalink | Comments (23)

Hello and happy Monday, friends! We had a good weekend, worked some and played some, and the weather turned cool. We broke out the jackets and a blanket for the couch and baked banana bread. It's warm again today, balmy but the wind is strong and feels different. Autumn is coming.

I was tagged by Ali for this nosy meme. It's really interesting to me to learn this information about other bloggers, so here's the scoop on me:

1. Do you promote your blog?
Yes. Sort of. I'll explain. I always had a link to my murals on my weblog but not the other way around. I felt like there was no need for my clients to know so much about me. But recently I've consciously been taking a turn toward more assertive self-promotion as an artist, which is SO HARD for me. I feel strongly that life is the core of my art and photography. All of it is who I am. So when I reworked my main web page, I bit the bullet and linked to it all. Lately I've been spreading the word about my main site more among my friends too as a way of advertising my services, therefore more of them are finding out about the blog.

2. How often do you check hits?
At least once a day. Usually at the end of the day before I go to bed. If there's an unusually high number of hits, I'll look into who came from where. This can be totally addictive and at times a little spooky, so I really try to limit myself.

3. Do you stick to one topic?
Of course! Me. And my art and craft and photography. And my life and family. Boring stuff like that. ; )

4. Who knows that you have a blog?
Pretty much everyone now. I went to a mural estimate recently and the client asked me all about my Etsy shop. (Excellent.)

5. How many blogs do you read?
Too many. I subscribe to 74 feeds in Bloglines, but some of them are foodie sites and some are sites like Whip Up, which are just impossible to read everyday.

6. Are you a fast reader?
Yes, thankfully. But the thing that has made it all much more speedy lately is that I'm commenting less. It is so freeing to just pipe up about things that really strike a chord with me instead of feeling so obligated to comment on each entry I read.

7. Do you customize your blog or do anything technical?
Why yes, yes I do. I build it all by hand using the free version of Moveable Type for the weblog and the free software Nvu for the main website. And I am darn-tootin' proud of myself even though html makes my head ache and my eyes bug out.

8. Do you blog anonymously?
No. I use my my real name, just not my last name. I use the kids' first initials instead of their names just to make myself feel a bit safer, though I doubt it would make much difference if someone really wanted to hunt us down. Really, I think it is terribly easy to find out anything you want about anyone you want to so the small things I do to protect them are probably all just for my peace of mind.

9. To what extent do you censor yourself?
Um, quite a bit. I try to keep this place positive. No one's life is as pretty and happy as they make it seem on their website; I just don't like to bitch and moan here. Usually. I struggle with a touch of depression especially in the winter months, so this is a good way for me to find some beauty and happiness in the everyday. I also don't like to talk politics or religion here. We have different views on these things as even some of our close friends and family, so what's the point. Let's embrace the differences, people. We're all really our own brand of crazy, aren't we?!

10. The best thing about blogging?
The part I just said about finding beauty in my everyday life, and OF COURSE all of the real life friends I have made. (Hey girlies, how are you, sweeties?)

So that's it. If you made it this far, you are nosy. Wink, wink. I won't officially tag anyone, but feel free if it floats your boat too.

Posted by Alicia at 4:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (17)

We'll be away from the computer all weekend, so publishing comments will have to wait until I return. And I'll share my news with you next week. It may be much more exciting to me than to you.

(It has nothing to do with moving, babies, or grand life events, but you may find a hint if you snoop around at the changes I've been making here on the weblog.)

Have a wonderful long weekend, friends. Love to you all!

Posted by Alicia at 4:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (13)

School started yesterday. My son will now be gone all day. I find myself swinging between sheer excitement over more free time and sadness over not seeing him enough. We're looking for our footing with the new routine and I really want to make our home as tidy and streamlined as possible, which just isn't always possible with two small children. But I sure am trying! Life feels like one unsteady marathon of finding your footing sometimes, doesn't it?

It's still very hot outside- and humid too. When we go outside we move in slow motion. But inside I'm stuck on fast-forward. Cleaning and purging once again. How does all this make its way here? And I'm making lists like mad. Lists of books to read. Lists of errands to run. Lists of things to research. Projects to start. Projects to finish. Goals to accomplish. Sheesh. There's always so much to think about. It gets exhausting.

I've got some computer projects to work on and little gifts to make. I'll be posting just photos next week so I can concentrate on them and finally call them done. The photos will be inspired by the idea behind this book I saw over at Shari's. It looks so beautiful. I requested it via interlibrary loan yesterday. I hope it comes quickly.

Life IS art. Yes. That's the thing right there, isn't it? I SWEAR I will find some of it under all this clutter. : )

Have a wonderful weekend, everyone!

Posted by Alicia at 10:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (19)

We had another bloggy ladies get-together yesterday afternoon. Our group of local crafty bloggers is growing quickly! Jenny and Laura used the opportunity to organize a little baby shower for Amy. Oh, you should have seen the wonderful baby goodness- and a lot of it handmade. This is a lovely group of smart, funny, talented women. I even remembered to take a few photos of them all this time.

(L: Jenny's cake from Andre's. R: My gift to the baby, a linen smock with matching bloomers.)

Thank you, Jenny for hosting us all! I had a wonderful time, girls. Let's do it again soon.

Posted by Alicia at 9:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (21)

I'm missing it terribly.

I am trying to add some CAPTCHA code to my comment fields here on the weblog. Please excuse the bumpy ride. It's down there, but it isn't working. I hope it isn't keeping any real comments from coming through.

Why? When I got back from vacation I had over 1200 junk comments to wade through. In the hour and a half this morning that I spent trying to add a free plug-in and code I downloaded, I got 18. It's terribly annoying and I know nothing about html. I'm bumbling through it all with only the help of my fabulous web hosting company- ICDSoft. They're nothing but helpful but it's not exactly their job to write code for me. Sigh. I think now I have to go and undo all I've done this morning. And call a friend who knows about this stuff. Michael? Are you out there?

Right now though, I'm packing us up and going to the pool, where I can pretend I'm still looking out at the sea.

** I undid what I did earlier and everything should be back to normal. Please forgive me while I figure this all out. **

Posted by Alicia at 11:59 AM | Permalink | Comments (14)

J and I in our last-minute-thrifted sunny hats.

We're ready. The wagon is gassed up. The oil's been changed. She is freshly washed and vacuumed and so well organized. There's the correct amount of air in each tire. Our auto club membership is up-to-date. All that's left to do is paint honky lips on the side and listen to this song as we pull out of the driveway. Hee hee!

We're off now for a beach holiday. I'll be offline (thankfully- it's time for a break) for a few weeks, so once again I won't be able to publish comments. PLEASE feel free to leave them anyway. I'll put them up as soon as I get back.

Love to you all. Take good care!

Posted by Alicia at 2:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (15)

As requested by Emily, 7 Random Things about me:

One: I had never eaten (thanks to my dear mom) a Pop Tart when I went away to college. So of course I lived on them for a couple of years. And now if I even see one, it makes me gag a little.

Two: I once wore Paul Newman's nightshirt. I worked at a dry cleaners in high school for a little bit and he was in town filming a movie. His assistant brought in his laundry and I put on the nightshirt. Over my clothes, of course! I was unprofessional, but not THAT unprofessional.

Three: I love all kind of rodents and bugs. Ants, worms, bats, spiders, caterpillars, mice, etc- I find them all very fascinating. But if I see a cockroach it sends me running and squealing like a little girl.

Four: We had a car accident (just a fender bender) on the way home from our wedding. When we got out of the car still in our formal wear, a sweet lady came out of a nearby store to see if we were alright. She asked, "Awww... are you on your way to prom?!" Um, we looked just a little young.

Five: When I was 15, I spent two weeks with a friend sailing around the Virgin Islands on a 45 ft. sailboat with a friend of her dad's and his girlfriend. It was The Trip of a Lifetime. I still think about it often.

Six: What's my ultimate favorite junk food? Funyuns. No doubt about it.

Seven: I wear my emotions on my sleeve. I'll cry at the drop of a hat and when I'm happy, I'm really happy. And I think because it is so hard for me to hide how I feel, I am a terrible liar. My children are exactly the same way.

** the top is made from a thrifted straight skirt that I stole was given to me by my mom. I thought it would be cuter as a little halter shirt using the same method as the pillow case pj's. I do believe it's downright beachy.**

Posted by Alicia at 11:23 AM | Permalink | Comments (20)

to those of you here in the states. Sorry no yellow photograph- we're neck deep in red, white and blue today.

We spent the evening at a get-together in a neighboring county in which the firecrackers aren't illegal. Crazy fun- burned my finger on a sparkler, but it was totally worth it.

Posted by Alicia at 11:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)

quite literally!

We're off for a little family lake time. Please don't feel offended if you leave a comment and it doesn't appear on the website for a week or so. If I didn't get about 127 junk comments a day, I could turn this all on auto-pilot.

But I do, so I can't.

Take good care, friends!

(I know- this photograph has nothing to do with fishing. I'm sure I'll have plenty of those when we get back.)

Posted by Alicia at 11:48 PM | Permalink

I pulled over and took pictures of this trellis/arbor/entry gate on the back way to the grocery. Amazing! Gardening friends, is this wisteria? Whatever it is, I LOVE it and want some.

Abrupt topic change:

It feels good to have a weekend with NOTHING planned. No ball games or practices. No parties. The only possibilities looming on the horizon include gardening but only if the weather is good. Fishing with Papa but only if the weather is good. Vodka tonics on the patio... but only if the weather is good!

So what happens if the weather isn't good? Sleeping in. Coffee. Cinnamon rolls. Crossword puzzles. Sewing. (J has a project he's been working on too.) Teacher gift making. Reading. Vodka tonics in the family room.

So some of these things may happen. Or not. Fine by me. (Except for the little teacher gifts- they have to get done.) For the next few days we're just going to play it by ear and relax.

Oh, yes. One last thing, WOO HOO for summer!

Posted by Alicia at 8:39 AM | Permalink | Comments (16)

to all you fantastic moms out there. I'm wishing for a mild sunny day, breakfast on the patio with a big mug of coffee and a crossword puzzle.

I'm also wishing for a peaceful day for all of you too.
(Especially you, Grace. I'm thinking of you, my dear.)

Posted by Alicia at 2:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (9)

Yesterday was warm and mostly sunny.
The basement is still dry as a bone.
The weather people have revised the forecast.
There's still a chance of thunderstorms,
but not torrential rain like earlier predicted.
I switched the camera back into its regular color mode.
Tonight is book club.
Friday is J and Coach Daddy's first baseball practice.
I get to put up a clothesline this weekend.
The garden is ok- waterlogged but alive.
The Siberian Iris are blooming.

I'm feeling better already.

Posted by Alicia at 10:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (15)

Here's J hitting the world's strongest piñata at his Cinco de Mayo party. After about ten minutes of each of them patiently taking turns, the teachers resorted to unmasking them and letting them beat the stuffing out of it on the gym floor. You should have seen those kids, normally so well behaved and calm, all wild-eyed and wack-wack-wacking that stubborn thing. I've never laughed so hard in my life! I couldn't even hold up the camera- I was completely in tears! Oh, it makes me start up again just thinking about it...

breathe. calming deep breaths.

Anyway, we're on our own this weekend. Brian is off on his annual boys weekend. I'm not bitter at all that he left on the day of our ten year anniversary. (Ok, maybe just a little. In the grand scheme of things, I really lucked out in the husband department, so I'll get over it.) The three of us have nice calm plans for the weekend, hanging out together playing, maybe baking some sweet rolls and tending to our garden.

You go have some fun yourselves, you hear?! Take good care, friends.

Posted by Alicia at 11:42 AM | Permalink | Comments (16)

(I swiped this photo from his MySpace page. I hope he doesn't mind. Go there and you can listen to a few songs. I took my camera, but felt dorky and locked it in the trunk at the last minute. I wish I hadn't.)

I just HAD to pop in and say how much Andrew Bird rocks. We went to see him (+ Martin Dosh and Jeremy Ylvisaker) last night at the Blue Note in Columbia, MO. Now I have some of his music on cd and on the computer, and he's very good. But live he's surprising, amazing and totally rockin'. Totally. It's like nothing you've ever heard. Plus I really dig that geeky, intellectual songwriter vibe.

Enough. Give me a few more days and I'll be back. xo.

Posted by Alicia at 2:27 PM | Permalink | Comments (9)

• Find pleasure in the small moments
• Be grateful for my loved ones
• Get going on our veggie patch
• Hang a clothesline somewhere
• Enjoy the weather; Spring is back!
• Make a spinach quiche
• Knit something. Wish me luck.
• Finish several baby gifts
• and a birthday gift
• Barbecue with good friends
• Go see this guy in concert- yay!
• Celebrate Earth Day

I'll be back in a week or two. Take care of yourselves, friends.

Posted by Alicia at 8:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (20)

Hello, friends! I hope you're doing well.

We had a wonderful trip to Texas. It was so relaxing and the three girls, my two nieces and little N, played splendidly together. Splendid. The new word of choice thanks to my (almost) three year old niece. I took about 125 pictures and that didn't include the ones I deleted on the spot. I've put just a few up over at Flickr. And IKEA? All I can say is we need one in Kansas City. Or in St. Louis. I could live with that.

The photograph above is one of my favorites from the trip. I took the girls on a short walk to the neighborhood park one morning. It had recently rained, and the sky was sort of bright but overcast and oooo, the flowers looked so vibrant and well, splendid.

I'm ready to get back to this site now. I've got a few small swaps to finish up and a couple of gifts to work on, so I may even have few arty things to share. And our yard is waking up. I think I'll spend the day tomorrow raking and digging and sprucing. It's time to get my hands dirty. Maybe I'll share a little of that too.

We'll visit soon, my friends. Take good care!

Posted by Alicia at 12:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (10)

Is it too early for this? Are we supposed to wait until after Memorial Day or something? Well, I don't care. I'm so anxious for Spring, that I dressed us both in crops for today's 60-ish degree day.

We have planned an impromptu girls-only trip to Texas to see my sister-in-law and her family. Little N, Maw Maw and I are hitting the road next week, which means my blog break may last longer than planned. If you don't hear from me again before we leave, visit me over at Flickr. I'm having a GRAND time with the new camera and just as I suspected I would, I'm uploading way too many photos. It's already full-blown Springtime in Dallas, so there will be plenty to photograph (yipee!), and they live near an IKEA. Trouble, I tell you. Trouble.

I hope this entry finds everyone in good spirits and health. Take care, everybody!

Posted by Alicia at 12:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (24)

Today? Today was a nice day. Amy and Laura came over with their kiddos for a little visit this morning. They played together nicely, and the moms gabbed and drank coffee. Well, Laura sipped her tea. She also brought gluten-free Madeleines. Very very tasty. I wish Amy lived here. We seem to have a lot in common. Hear that, Amy? If you ever get a hankering to move back to Kansas City, you just pack up and do it. Ok? And speaking of Amy (and all the Smocket love) don't forget to go visit her and tell her thanks. It's her pattern after all. : ) Thanks, Amy. For the pattern, for the visit, for the little fabric coaster. All three lovely.

Here are Bea and Darwin hanging out in the living room. Aren't they cute? N spent most of the morning glued to my hip. Later in the day she kept telling me her mouth hurt. I got to thinking maybe she was getting a sore throat. Great. Invite some friends over and infect them. That's a little too friendly. But after a huge crabby fit with Grandma I got to poking around in her mouth. All four two year molars are just barely poking through. Awwwwww- Baby N. I'm sorry, my love.

One more day, folks. Then I'm taking a break. But do come back tomorrow to see MY new Smocket.

Goodnight!

Posted by Alicia at 10:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (14)

Waiting this afternoon for J to finish his Spanish class at school, N and I explored his school's garden.

At first glance it seemed not much was going on, but as we walked around we saw and heard otherwise. We enjoyed looking up at the winter blue sky, feeling the wind in our hair, watching two mice dart in and out of the ivy, examining the compost, squishing in the mud, looking at the goldfish in the pond, and listening to the chattering birds.

There really is no greater teacher than nature, and there's little as amazing as planting a seed and watching it grow. I'm looking forward to J becoming a part of this school garden and for them both to help with the little vegetable patch we're planning here at home. Not long now.

Posted by Alicia at 5:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (9)

the boy is all better.
the girl is finally on the mend.
mommy is at about 90%.
the laundry is almost caught up.
the house is clean.
the studio is organized.
the weather is SO much better (sunny and 50's today.)
a painting job is in the works.
some creative projects are planned.

thank goodness.

Posted by Alicia at 8:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (15)

Hey, Erin! Check me out!

(my mom is trying to teach me how to knit.)

Posted by Alicia at 4:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (15)

The weather cooperated this time around, and all these ladies came over this evening: Estea, Laura, Jenny, Amy, Lori, and Michelle. The food was all super, the company even better. We talked and ate and LAUGHED and traded fabric ( Jenny brought tons- We scored BIG time!) and ate some more and laughed some more. Oh, these ladies. I swear we could all be friends anyway, but isn't it strange and fun that our little crafty websites brought us together? At the very last minute as we were all hanging out by the door and Jenny had already gone, we realized we didn't take any pictures! A few were quickly snapped, but this is all I got. I'm hoping one of the other ladies got some good ones.

Thanks, girls. I had such a nice evening. You are all so fun and sweet and we need to do it again soon. SOON. And thanks for the fabric, especially you, Jenny. That was seriously generous. With all this I'll be busy for months. The ideas are already rattling around in my head.

Have a wonderful week, everyone. Joining in with Amanda and company, I'll just be posting photos for a few days. Take care.

Posted by Alicia at 9:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (15)

You guys... you warm a girl's heart. And with cold days like these, I can use all the warmth I can get.

Thank you so much for all of the amazingly sweet comments about J's birthday and his pillow.
You're too much.

Posted by Alicia at 9:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (6)

Sadly, I postponed the get-together on account of bad weather,
which ended up bad but not that bad.

Sorry ladies- We'll do it in a few weeks.
Enjoy the tasty treats with your families!

Posted by Alicia at 7:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (10)

I have always loved a nice egg sandwich with cheese (this time muenster) and a sprinkling of pepper on whole wheat toast.

I also love short work weeks- oooo, if only they all were this short.
and play dates. at their houses.

My energy for cleaning is fizzling out, but we're on our fourth car load to Goodwill. I love donating to and buying from second-hand stores. What could be better, really?!

I ADORE this new site. So far it's eerily beautiful and peaceful. Shari's set of black and white photographs is peaceful too. Simply perfect.

Generous people are the BEST. Have you seen how much money the auction is raising? Everything is way out of my price range, but that is quite alright!

I'll be back next week with the last of my handmade gifts and the first tiny baby steps of my new More Art Plan. Happy weekending, everyone! May you all discover, or visit, or do, or create something you love too.

Posted by Alicia at 12:25 PM | Permalink | Comments (10)

It's a new day, a new year. The prospect of a fresh start has us positively in a frenzy. After a couple of weeks of overindulgence and lazing around, something has snapped. Buzzing like bees I tell you. In the last two days we've put away the holiday decorations, cleaned, organized, pared down. It feels so good. The rushed gift making is over, and it is time to clean up the studio. That's my goal for today. Studio and laundry room. And maybe the pantry.

As we all seem to be doing, I've also been pondering resolutions. The usuals are contenders: staying organized, eating healthy, more exercise, yadda yadda yadda. But what I really want to do this year is start making more art. Since I've gotten interested in this art and craft blogging world, I have really expanded my definition of art (which is a long rambling post for another day.) But even with that said, I'm missing the basics. Painting. Drawing. Oh, how I miss printmaking. There's no reason I can't do hand-printed linocuts and woodcuts and maybe some small scale screen printing here in my studio. It's time. It's been too long. And photography. I love taking pictures. I need to take a class. Hmmm... much to think about. Actually, I may be over-thinking. Alicia, just jump in and start creating. Yes. yes.

But all of this creating will have to wait another day or two. I want to ride this cleaning wave while it lasts, because around here they don't roll by too often.

Best wishes to you all in the new year!

Posted by Alicia at 8:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (15)

Happy Winter Solstice everyone!

Isn't this garland with the dragonflies nice? It's from our local Ten Thousand Villages. I love it. It's "all year worthy" I do believe.

Deep breath. The dolls are done. almost. The gifts are purchased. The errands are finished. The bags are nearly packed. It's our year for Christmas in St. Louis and we're off this afternoon. It's time for rich food, sweets and more sweets, family ruckus, quiet time after the kids crash, gifts all around and love. I am READY.

I'll be taking a break from this site too, maybe until the new year has arrived and my head is cleared. (Just in time for the Kim Family Auction. Have you seen the wonderful things that have been donated? Wow. Save your Christmas pennies!) I'm sure I'll still be puttering around at Flickr, posting pictures of the kids and their cousins getting into trouble together.

Happy Holidays, friends. Warm and snuggly wishes to you and yours.

Posted by Alicia at 9:18 AM | Permalink | Comments (9)

This Santa and I seem to have similar expressions. Frazzled yet dazed. Totally fried.

The baby dolls are almost done, but still naked. As soon as I crank the dresses out, I'm calling it quits. I've scratched some of the list; I'm running out tonight to buy some little things instead. And I have a game to get ready for J's party at school tomorrow. Well, and there's something for my mom, but we're not doing gifts until New Year's Eve morning, so I'll have a day at the end of next week to finish that.

not long now... not long now...

Posted by Alicia at 2:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (11)

Hello!

I struggled (and I mean Struggled) through Friday alone with the kids, collapsing into a heap as soon as Brian got home. Several times during the day J said, "Mom, I think I want Daddy to come home now." I decided if I didn't feel better when I got up the next morning, I'd go to the doctor. Sure enough, after dragging myself up there Saturday, I had Strep Throat. I've never had it before and man, that's miserable. They gave me a prescription for the wonderful and magical gift of modern medicine, a "Z-Pack." By Sunday, I was once again functioning, with a migraine from all of the dehydration, but functioning.

And yesterday, I was myself- hollering at kiddos, sewing faces on baby dolls, decorating the house, but worrying terribly about a little family that I don't know. I have been slightly obsessed with this story. As soon as I heard they found Kati Kim and her children, I cried like a baby. I think it's just seems way too familiar. So many times we've been off on some camping adventure, with our little ones strapped in our wagon, on some winding highway, semi-lost, no cell phone service. We could be them. I desperately want this to have happy ending.

Please find him soon.

Posted by Alicia at 1:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (12)

Yesterday the high was a balmy 65º F. (or something like that.)

Today the mercury is dropping all day, and they're predicting freezing rain and maybe a little snow. Time for a big pot of soup. Too bad we finally finished all of the turkey. (Did I really just say that?) A nice bowl of turkey and homemade noodles would have been nice. Any suggestions?

Posted by Alicia at 8:23 AM | Permalink | Comments (12)

We had a great Thanksgiving filled with friends, family, love, good food and and gratitude. One low spot though. News came that an old friend passed away after a rough battle with cancer. One of the sweetest humans to ever walk the earth. Sigh. Makes me even more thankful, but breaks my heart for his sweet wife. He was way too young.

I did get my dominoes game in. Many actually. Many, many.

He loves it. And is good. Watch out.

Guess what?! I met Amy and her family last week. We ran into each other at a nearby park. They were here visiting for a quick holiday. And sweet Bea, all strapped in her seat in the car, smiled at me and said "hi." She really is a cutie. Next time, dear Amy, we MUST get together.

This week I'm planning a Blogging Lite® week. (term inspired by a friend.) I'm getting serious with the gift making and don't want to get sidetracked. Maybe I'll just post a few photos here and there. Katherine... are you out there? I'm almost done with the baby doll. And if you're expecting a package from me? They'll be out soon. I promise.

Have a great new week, everyone. Take good care please.

Posted by Alicia at 9:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (8)

Well, all. All has not been well here. My sweet J had a rotten day Friday, which quickly evolved into a nasty fever, which has left in its wake a puzzling case of night terrors. Completely new territory. And wee N had a head cold and poor mommy hasn't gotten a thing done. Except rub tummies and wipe noses and administer meds. At least it's good to be needed. They're both feeling better, and we're hoping J's night terrors wind down now. Mommy and Daddy are tired. Thankfully, he remembers nothing.

Tomorrow I need to prepare for our Thanksgiving meal here with friends and family- a nice day of children running crazy in the yard, an enormous meal and maybe even a dominoes tournament. In fact, I'm going to take a long blogging break into the weekend to enjoy the holiday and catch myself up.

May all of your turkey (or tofurkey) be juicy, your cranberries tart, and your belts loose.
Love to all.

Posted by Alicia at 4:23 PM | Permalink | Comments (14)

{{ starting two long overdue orders, same bear different outfit, and a baby doll based on the same design }}

{{ tackling the self-portrait }}

{{ facing my fear of change, one that I didn't realize was quite so strong }}

{{ concentrating on the task at hand, the beautiful day, my children's faces }}

Posted by Alicia at 12:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (9)

** Added 10/10/06- Well, I'm done making the changes and I've settled down. Thankfully, everyone in their family is safe and sound. But the mere thought of something scary happening made my head spin. I guess it has been on your minds too judging by the comments.

Enough said. Now let us move on to something much more pleasant. **

Hi everyone. Feeling a little blue this morning (and maybe a bit paranoid) but Stephanie has removed her old blog from circulation and will no longer be talking about her children. I hope something bad didn't happen.

I have been contemplating this for awhile, and I wonder why I didn't do it from the start, but I'm going to be referring to the kids as J and N from now on. And I'm going to go back and change all my old entries. It is a strange world we live in and unfortunately there are creepy people out there. I thought when I started this that only a few people were reading, most of them family, but as more people have started reading, I'm feeling a little weird about putting the kids so "out there." A little too vulnerable. For now I will still be including them here. How can I not? They are such a part of who I am. I'm just going to be making some small changes to my sites that might make it just a bit harder to track them/us down. I know, it's not much, and bad people have their ways of finding stuff out, but at least I might feel a little better.

Thanks for understanding and please ignore all the old entries that may pop up in Bloglines as I make all of these changes. Better safe than sorry.

Posted by Alicia at 8:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (15)

Well, my little blog break became longer than I intended, and there's still not much new to say. Brian had a ReStore convention in Denver at the beginning of last week, then the end of the end of the week was spent getting ready for a quick trip to St. Louis for some family time and a Cardinals game with good friends. We're back now and I'm working on a few custom sewing orders, so hopefully soon I'll have a few pretties to show you.

While in St. Louis we picked up my old digital camera from Brian's mom. I totally forgot I gave it to her to play with, but then we all pitched in and got her a new one for Christmas. So now it is J's. Enthusiastically snapping shots out in the yard, he has already this morning filled the memory card three times. (No school today.) I've picked out a few to add to his Flickr set. I wonder if there are photography classes for tiny kids. Here's a lovely little portrait of N that he took.

Happy Monday, friends!

Posted by Alicia at 11:03 AM | Permalink | Comments (7)

I spent my limited computer time this evening making a few site changes: new banner for the season, updated colors, cleaned-up sidebar. I was looking at my "blogroll" over there and realized it was hopelessly out of date. But adding the gazillion blogs I really read is unrealistic, so I'm taking the route of a rotating list- a few places I'm particularly enjoying right now.

We took a nice, short trip to pick apples today after school with some neighborhood/kindergarten friends. The apple picking was a tad pitiful as they tell us it wasn't the best year for apples, but I think we got enough for The Pie. J and his friend had a ball jumping around in a haystack.

Brian is out of town for a conference, so I think I'm going to have to take a break for a few days to jump to a few things myself. See you soon!

Posted by Alicia at 9:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (13)

This is the new bathroom floor. The whole house feels like this to me right now. Half-done. A mess. I decided this morning the sun room looks great, but the rest of the house seems to be crumbling around it. My simplifying and organizing campaign was suddenly sidelined by the couch project. So I think I'll be taking a small blogging break to regroup, clean up, restock the fridge and start some new projects. I'll be back sometime next week.

But before I go, I'd to thank Teresa at Maggie Grace Creates for the sweet little package she sent. All kinds of fabric scraps, vintage buttons, tags, doo-dads, and the sweetest, tiny crocheted "granny square." Hmmm... what to do with all this great stuff?

Oh, wait. Clean first. Right. Organize. Yes.

Have a wonderful weekend, everyone!

Posted by Alicia at 8:23 AM | Permalink | Comments (11)

A lime green photo this morning for Amy and her Year of Color group.

A weekend full of thunderstorms has perked up my plants. We used to fantasize about cuddling up in bed at night while a storm rolls through. But now I tend to lie there waiting, waiting for a little one to cry out frightened by the noise. I'm not really complaining. It's still a lovely way to spend a few hours awake. And the babes made it through without incident.

________________________________________________

I'm plugging away on the slipcover. It's progressing nicely, although it is hard to sew very quickly when you work like this.

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Please visit Shari's Compound Word Project. Shari has such a talent for finding beauty and peace in everyday life. And this new project of hers has that same relaxed, earthy feel. My photo is in the middle set. Can you figure out the word?

________________________________________________

Have a wonderful Monday, friends. I'll be back tomorrow to say some belated thank you's...

Posted by Alicia at 8:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (7)

One of the real joys of staying at home with my kids is sharing meals with them. But every once in awhile it is just so good to wait. With one stashed away in her crib for a nap, and the other cuddled up watching the Polar Express for the 437th time, it is such a pleasure to eat lunch alone. In silence. With a book.

Posted by Alicia at 1:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (10)

Celebrating with rootb eer floats (so cute!); the root beer was brewed with this kit. Brian and J timed it perfectly. Ten days later, it was ready to drink after the first day of school.

What are we celebrating?

•A fun first day of Kindergarten- truth be told, he was more excited about getting to try the root beer.
•Mommy keeping her composure through it all- one of my goals. (Actually, it was much easier than I anticipated.)
•Finally, a little rain over the weekend and a small break in the heat this week allowing a dinner on the patio.
•N and Mommy getting a little quiet, alone time every morning.

Posted by Alicia at 8:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (10)

Well, we're off in a few hours for a girls' weekend at the lake. (Hopefully a new annual tradition!) No husbands. No kids. Just swimsuits, sunscreen, a few rafts to float around on, and some fruity beverages.

I'll be back next week relaxed and refreshed, hopefully with some projects to show you. Have safe and happy weekend!

Posted by Alicia at 12:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (12)

Blogger is still haunting me.

A few days ago I clicked on an old post, one of the ones I transferred over from my old weblog on Blogger. The pictures that Blogger hosts wouldn't load. After a little investigation, I found that some of them loaded sporadically, and some not at all. And now, none of them load. I emailed Blogger's support team and they said they now block their hosted pictures when accessed from a non-Blogger site. Good grief. Hmmmm... too many people leaving, transferring files just like I did, are they? I wonder why?!

The old entries are just weird without pictures, so as of today I'm going to delete those old transferred posts. Is that confusing? If you're at all interested in what I was up to before April, please feel free to check out the old site. But I apologize now if Blogger is acting all wacky.

Posted by Alicia at 12:55 PM | Permalink

When I got back from our trip a little package was waiting for me! A few months ago, I made a smock for Tie One On, and Molly commented and said she wished she had one. So I told her I'd make her one if she'd send me one of her pretty stoneware pendants. It is so perfect for me. Even better in person, it's minimalist modern, a little hippy, very cool. I look good.

She also sent a few little extra bits of fabric and some yummy chocolates. Don't the fabrics looks pretty together? What should they become?

Here is my problem. I've been having that feeling lately, the one where you just can't keep all your thoughts straight. I have lots projects going on at once and I have a few "orders" for specific items with real deadlines. I bet you money I have my anxiety dream soon. I always dream the same dream when I feel a bit frazzled. It goes like this: I'm in high school and I don't know my schedule. I go to ask for a copy, but I can't even remember where the office is. When I find my way to class, I haven't been there in months, so I'm completely unprepared for the test we're about to take. Do you know this dream?

For WIP Friday, here is a picture of a few of the things I'm working on and contemplating working on:

1. The rocker: sand, paint, sew a little cushion
2. The craft apron: box up to mail to ms. vegasandvenice
3. Molly's smock: pack up and mail
4. Girlie fabric: make bonnets for baby and big sis gifts
5. Canvas: paint a little bird for a swap with Foffie
6. Flower fabric: sew a skirt for myself- I deserve it!
7. Pattern from Babybug and fabric: sew a dress for N
8. Cake tin: personalize for my dad, I've been sitting on this forever!
9. Horse and gingham fabric: sew an apron for a horse loving girl
Not pictured: my apron for the Apron Swap, a softie my friend ordered for a shower gift, a stool for a little girl who is potty training.

Huh. I thought writing it all out might make me feel better. It sure didn't.

Posted by Alicia at 2:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (13)

Some of my non-blogging friends just don't understand. They say, "Uh, geez, you sure have put a lot of work into your blog." And when they do, I am secretly proud. It is work, especially keeping up with all of my friends' blogs. And that's just what I consider you guys. Friends. So in celebration I'll tell you 100 things I like about blogging.

Just kidding. How about 5?

•Inspiration
The beautiful things my fellow bloggers create take my breath away. Knitted things, sewn things, painted and drawn things. Photographs. Your homes. Your families. Wow. I was in a bit of a creative slump, but through your creativity, I am rediscovering my own. Thank you.

•Motivation
I'm prouder than ever of my creative skills. I haven't sewn this much in ages. There's a little pressure to put new things up on the site, and I like that. Instead of watching worthless TV in the evenings, I spend much more time being creative.

And when I'm immersed in such beautiful things, places, and people, it really makes me want to live a more artful life. When I set the table, plan a meal, take the kids on outings, make something new, arrange a room, I try to stand back and think, "If I took a picture right now, would this be blog worthy?" It sounds a little frivolous, but I'm hoping it is something that will make a difference in our lives.

•Community
This crafting community is just amazing. I feel like I have made friends with a lot of you. It's like having pen pals with similar interests all over the world. We get to visit each day and we don't have to wait by the mailbox for weeks. Through blogging I have become closer with old friends and made tons of new friends. And swaps are just incredible- oh, the generosity out there!

•Intellectual stimulation
I'm a work from home mom. I miss co-workers. You all have become my co-workers. Saying things to Brian like, "My blogging friend so and so, just did such and such" used to get me some funny looks, but now he gets it. I know I may not be as eloquent as some, but having the task of writing a little everyday is good for me. I want my posts to be interesting, or at least not too boring, and you can only say "lovely" so many times in one post!

•Record keeping
I don't know how long I'll be blogging, and although I really enjoy it now, I know there will come a day when it becomes a chore. So until then this blog is a nice record of my family's days. Already, when I look back at the early posts, N looks so tiny- and bald.

So now, the give-away. I'm hoping I have enough readers to pull this off, but last night I made this craft apron. It was inspired by Courtney's craft apron, which is marvelous. I made my version a little longer around, not knowing who it will need to fit. It's thick and has pockets, and I prewashed everything together so hopefully it's done all the bleeding it needs to do. What? You're not the crafty type? Use it for a work apron, a gardening apron, or for cooking. All you need to do is leave a comment and include your email address in the appropriate field. I'll draw a name in a week or so and it will be yours. It doesn't matter if you live across the planet or a few blocks away. Please enter!

It's my way of saying: THANK YOU!!

And I do.

Posted by Alicia at 10:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (42)

Thank you so much, everybody, for humoring my shameless plea for comments! It really does make my day! [keep it up, please]

Remember the new house thing? It fell through. We were really going to do it. It would have meant a monster "bridge loan" so we could afford two houses for a few months, but before we could make an offer, the owner signed a contract. I was a little sad. Oh well- it wasn't meant to be. But now it has really given us incentive to get working on this house, just in case something like this comes up again. Cleaning out the basement of all the junk is priority number one, and this is going to help: www.kcfreecycle.org. Why haven't I ever used this before?!

I made a few of the Mailorder Club bonnets this weekend. So very cute, fast and easy. Photos to come soon.

Have a great Monday, nice blogging buddies!

Posted by Alicia at 8:01 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

I'm off tomorrow on a business trip. I'm painting a mural in Brian's Aunt Sharon's new sun room. She has picked an Italian countryside scene, and hopefully I'll be able to do it justice. I'll take lots of photos. The kids and I are taking the train to St. Louis tomorrow, and Maw Maw and Da will be watching them while I paint Thursday and maybe Friday. I'm also going to sew my friend Katherine some of the very easy draft stoppers. Then we'll be making a long weekend of it, barbecuing with old friends, eating at the family-favorite Serra's pizza, and relaxing.

Obviously I'll be on another short blogging break, but I will be checking email. When I get back I am going to have to really get crackin' on two projects, my Tie One On smock and a little a softie for a swap with Tracy.

We've just been having the grandest weather lately, although it is supposed to warm up this weekend. But I don't mind at all. Just like my new friend, Hannah (who I met in person last week - she's just the sweetest little thing ever!), I too am a summer girl. I like the shorts and flip flops, the pool and sun, the smell of sunscreen, long balmy evenings, sweaty little shirtless kids. It's my favourite and my best, to borrow the words from Lola.

So, until I get back, take care. Have a safe and lovely holiday weekend!

Posted by Alicia at 9:46 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)

... I love the Spring.

My dad called us over and said to hurry and bring the camera. (He's been on the lookout for "blog content".) These are in the plum tree. There's three of them, if you can't see them well. The whole time we were looking at them the mama Robin was yelling at us from atop the fence. I'm hoping to get a few more shots of them as they grow.

And wee N seems to have inherited a trait from me. She knows the most inappropriate times to get sick. We finally got her over the sinus goo, with the help of two different antibiotics. She was snot-free for about five days. Yesterday she started running a fever and today she's feverish and Crabby. With a capital C.

Just perfect- We have a houseful of family coming tomorrow from St. Louis for the Royals vs. Cardinals baseball game plus a weekend of all-around family fun. So hopefully she'll be better in time for the merriment.

Also, Bag-O-Rama continues: I made one more bag, but I won't show pics until Brian's sister Kim sees it this weekend.

And then I am taking a bag break.

Posted by Alicia at 9:53 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Thank you, dear Jamilyn, for the cute little pad of paper that says "Compost happens."
You are so thoughtful. Do you know me or what?!

Thank you, Mother Nature, for making peonies smell so sweet, even if your little pollinator friends follow them into the house.
I'm trying my best to do right by you.

Thank you, Mom, for teaching me so much about parenting.
Really, you are the best.

Thank you, J and N, for making me a mom so I can try it all out.

Thank you, J, for doing so well at your baseball and soccer games on Saturday.
May this be the only weekend for awhile that two sport seasons overlap. Too busy.

Thank you, Brian, for taking two days to prepare and smoke the ribs for our Mother's Day Feast.
Yum. It really was a feast.

Thank you, Peggy and Terri, for being the two best preschool teachers ever.
You have made J's introduction to the world of formal education joyous and not so formal. Enjoy the little bags.

Thank you, Blair, for the instructions for the fabric flower pins.
So fast and easy, and the perfect finishing touch for the bags.

Thank you, bloggers and blog readers, for providing me with much-needed creative inspiration and encouragement.
You have taught me how different and yet alike we all are. Wonderful.

Thank YOU for bearing with me through all these thank you's...

Posted by Alicia at 12:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Posted by Alicia at 8:50 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)

See the capital letters up there? That's my way of typing sarcasm.

Brian is gone on a road trip this weekend to here. There are about ten guys that go together every year and they are all good guys, don't get me wrong. But they all squeeze into a few hotel rooms, and I'm guessing the activity list includes belching and farting and scratching, way too much beer drinking and eating of the greasy fried foods, crude jokes, rumpus and laughing, not so much showering and hygiene, and other typical male pastimes. Needless to say, the girls are not invited, nor do we want* to go.

*see the activities listed above.

Once the kiddies are in bed this house is ahhhh... quiet. Here are my big plans for the weekend.

So right now I'm still in the "oooo... it's nice and quiet around here" phase. Please check back Monday to hear about the "oh my lord, you kids are driving me batty, when does your $#@*!*% father get back?!" phase and see the results of my freezer paper printing attempts.

Have a great weekend!

Posted by Alicia at 11:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)

1. Pete's cold wet nose. (um, he's the dog.)

2. making money doing something fun.

3. saving the LAST cookie for naptime- all mine!

4. waking up late (well, 8 am) to a thunderstorm.

5. a new home for my apron.

6. a child's sense of style. why do we have to lose this?

7. hearing the kids laughing together.

8. meeting daddy at a park for lunch.

9. whole wheat toast with butter and honey.

10. sweet N not fussing with the hair clip.

Posted by Alicia at 11:53 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)

We've been on an emotional roller coaster this week. Soon, maybe I'll talk about it. I thought this would be a calm, reflective way to wind it up.

SIGHT:

skinny little legs with knobby knees in tall black soccer socks

my pretty new necklace

yellow and white and maybe a little green, for my last minute Tie One On apron

puddles on the black driveway

SOUND:

my new favorite, pandora.com

baby N cough, cough, coughing in the night

my dear mom's voice over the phone

rain tapping on the roof

TASTE:

homemade Italian sausage pizza

tart dried cranberries in the sweet oatmeal cookies

breakfast for dinner: cheesy scrambled eggs, waffles, fruit

a semi-sweet riesling chosen for the label alone

SMELL:

those oatmeal cookies in the oven

clean kiddo hair

j's bed- smells just like him

wet dog- blick!

TOUCH:

a big hug from my mom

snuggling N- she's only cuddly when she's ill

soft little boy hair- "How long do you want to grow it, J?" "Three years." :)

wet shoes, hands, pant cuffs

Noticing the trend? They are predicting rain ALL. WEEKEND. LONG.

Thanks go to Shari for this nice idea.

Posted by Alicia at 1:46 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

I bought myself something pretty yesterday and played a joke on Brian.

I acted all sheepish and said, "I bought myself something online today."

B: "Oh really, what?"

Me: No answer. I just looked at him.

B: "The camera?!"

Me: Again with the blank look.

B: All the blood drained from his face and he said "You bought that $700 camera?!"

Me: Blank look, then I chuckled. "No!" (I have a really hard time playing jokes because I am a terrible liar.)

Here's what I bought:

Isn't it charming? (Get it? CHARMing?) It's from Jenny's etsy shop. Everything she makes is gorgeous and reasonably priced too! I'm not much of a fancy jewelry person, but I loved this, so I'm thinking of changin' my ways.

Posted by Alicia at 8:58 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)

Meet the new blog: www.themayfly.com/weblog

Be sure to change your Bookmarks/Favorites to my new address and if you have been kind enough to link to me on your page, you can change that too. Thank you!

I know, I know. It really looks about the same, but nod your head and smile and tell me it looks nice. I have been working on it FOREVER. And I am tired. There are still a few things to be tweaked, like learning how to handle comments, so please leave me one. I can categorize now- very cool, and I do not have to wade through uploading and picture problems- woo hoo! I couldn't have done this without my great friend, Michael. THANK YOU- I owe you and Tobi dinner! My webhosting company, ICD Soft, went way above and beyond the call of duty for a webhosting company and gave me much needed technical support. Thank you, Brian, for bearing with me through all my cussing this week. Now you'll see more than the back of my head staring into the computer screen. Believe it or not, I did this to save time. Ha!

And now we move on... back to real life. Thank goodness. I have a lot of catching up to do. I need to make my niece a little cookbook to go with her apron and mail it off. I need to make someone sweet a baby gift and mail it off. I need to spend time with my kids and eat candy. Oh, and so much more to do.

We had a great weekend. The kids went egg hunting in our yard this morning, and then we had a relaxing Easter picnic with my family.

Posted by Alicia at 11:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (9)