At lunchtime I headed home to help Ryan measure our house for new flooring. On Wednesday I cleaned up the most disgusting mess I've ever seen come out of our dog (twice) and then after that got cleaned up and Ryan got home that night, the puppy got sick AGAIN and made a mess on the floor. Exhasperated, I yelled, 'THAT'S IT! I'm not dealing with this damn carpet and not being able to clean it anymore!'
Ryan said, 'I said you could get new flooring. This is your green light."
I grumbled back something to the effect of, 'fine. I'll look tomorrow."
I ordered $600 of flooring today; a bargain if you really think about it. We only have 420 sqft that we're wanting to replace the carpet for. Not that much.
Also, it's been a REALLY long week. At work, at home. All around. I've sold 4 of my oh-so-cute fingerpuppet bags this week...Which means I need to finish them STAT and get them shipped off to some cute little fingers.
I'm shipping one to Paris! How fun is that?
I'm going to try really hard this weekend to get some major house cleaning and project finishing done. My husband is about to go ballistic from the constant state of mess I leave the house when I'm making things.
Stockings and Glittery ornaments to be added to my shop soon. I'll need to take better pictures of the stockings. They're so much nicer/prettier in person than in the pictures I managed.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Thursday, November 29, 2007
A Few of My Favorite Findings
on etsy. So many talented people, really. These are all things I think I could make by myself, so I just covet them and look at them from afar...sigh...
Except this little toddler doll...I don't think I can make it but I think it's so cute! When I was growing up we'd occasionally get a FingerHut catalog in the mail and I remember little dolls that looked like these...so cute.
Except this little toddler doll...I don't think I can make it but I think it's so cute! When I was growing up we'd occasionally get a FingerHut catalog in the mail and I remember little dolls that looked like these...so cute.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Ornies
These little beauts are 2/3rds of the way done. A new ribbon for hanging perfectly and a cute little tag for them and viola! Glam for the fam.
I'll be making a few more of these for my etsy shop. I found the most gorgeous red glass glitter online and had some shipped to me with these in mind. I have some silver ones coming.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Working Furiously
To get to an update for my Etsy shop later this week and to make some ornaments for my own Christmas decorating. I've found some awesome unfinished ornaments at Michael's and can't wait to get my hands on them with some glass glitter. I love me some glitter. and RED glitter...even better.
Also, I'm hoping to put some STOCKINGS in my Etsy shop! I am stoked about using some of the luscious wool I picked up the other day and start working it into red and green stockings.
I love the holiday season!
Also, I'm hoping to put some STOCKINGS in my Etsy shop! I am stoked about using some of the luscious wool I picked up the other day and start working it into red and green stockings.
I love the holiday season!
Monday, November 26, 2007
It's not over yet
I thought the stressful months of Ryan's grad school apps were finished. I thought wrong. He received an email today from one of the schools saying he's missing the application fee, a transcript, and a letter of recommendation. All of which he thought he had taken care of. So that started him worrying that he was missing other things. He started looking.
The University of Wisconsin decided that since he hadn't accessed his online application since 9/30/07 (not even 2 mos ago!!) that they would delete it. He mailed in part of the application 2 weeks ago, paid the fee...so what's the deal?! All I know is that we were going to start watching Ocean's 13 tonight.
Actually, I need to finish stitching up a puppet bag that was a special order. Finished all the puppets during Heroes, Chuck, and Notes from the Underbelly (LOVE LOVE LOVE this show - so glad it's back) and now it's time to get the bags finished. ta ta for now.
The University of Wisconsin decided that since he hadn't accessed his online application since 9/30/07 (not even 2 mos ago!!) that they would delete it. He mailed in part of the application 2 weeks ago, paid the fee...so what's the deal?! All I know is that we were going to start watching Ocean's 13 tonight.
Actually, I need to finish stitching up a puppet bag that was a special order. Finished all the puppets during Heroes, Chuck, and Notes from the Underbelly (LOVE LOVE LOVE this show - so glad it's back) and now it's time to get the bags finished. ta ta for now.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
It's Official - I'm sick
I'm sick. My first 'winter' cold for the season. It's a tradition in my family that at least one person gets sick during Thanksgiving and one person (or more) gets sick at Christmastime. Well, I think it's a tie for Thanksgiving. Both me and nephew Jack got sick last night (I think his was from eating a pound of chocolate cake and ice cream). I slept terribly last night because I kept rearranging myself on the bed (the mattress was my parents when they got married....time to get rid of it? uh, yes, about 10 years ago - it's rock hard) not only keeping myself awake, but Ryan as well. Both of us are exhausted after driving home but I decided after my Diet Pepsi Max that I had tons of energy and my sniffles had subsided enough to head to Mom and Dad Alexander's house to visit with BIL Nate and his gf April. Cute girl. I think she'll fit right in.
Time for bed. After a 8 hour trip to Orem today and another hour to and from South Jordan, these boots aren't doing anymore walking...it's time to take them off and set them aside for the evening.
I hope everyone had as great of a holiday weekend as we did :)
Time for bed. After a 8 hour trip to Orem today and another hour to and from South Jordan, these boots aren't doing anymore walking...it's time to take them off and set them aside for the evening.
I hope everyone had as great of a holiday weekend as we did :)
Saturday, November 24, 2007
The Sniffles
Wouldn't you know it that I end up getting sick on vacation. I couldn't wait to get back to normal life to have allergies (terrible, I might add) sprung upon me and a head cold of some sort. So ridiculous.
Today started earlier than yesterday. I was at least showered and ready for the day before 1 (the two prior were 3pm and 4pm, respectively). The boys went out and rode 4wheelers for a good 2 hours and then came home and played frisbee golf at the park across the street from our house for another hour. We girls decided we needed to do a bit of shopping and headed to Maurices. I found a few cute things but really decided it is time to get my cute self back into shape and back into my skinnier clothes. I have 70 lbs to lose, STAT. So, I'm not waiting to start my resolution until the new year -- it starts now.
Today started earlier than yesterday. I was at least showered and ready for the day before 1 (the two prior were 3pm and 4pm, respectively). The boys went out and rode 4wheelers for a good 2 hours and then came home and played frisbee golf at the park across the street from our house for another hour. We girls decided we needed to do a bit of shopping and headed to Maurices. I found a few cute things but really decided it is time to get my cute self back into shape and back into my skinnier clothes. I have 70 lbs to lose, STAT. So, I'm not waiting to start my resolution until the new year -- it starts now.
Friday, November 23, 2007
The Day After
Black Friday has always been fun to me, even if I don't wake up at the buttcrack of dawn to stand in line....heck, the last few years you've needed to camp out at the stores the day before if you wanted the hottest deals. This year I didn't find anything of too much note, though, and slept until my sister called to let me know everyone is meeting at Cracker Barrel for breakfast...yummm...love their hamsteaks...delish.
They'd been up since 3:45am to get coveted purses, jackets, tool sets, tvs, xboxes, etc. Ryan and I strolled into Walmart at 8 and picked up the couple of things we were interested in without crowded lines or freezing our asses off in the cold Kingman wind. It was bliss. The best shopping in a long time.
I think Ryan even said something about the awesome customer service at walmart and it being like a scene from a movie. This Walmart was built just a couple of years ago and is super clean, wasn't really crowded...esp for being the day after Thanksgiving...in fact, I think it was less crowded than a normal day at the Orem Walmart.
Overall good day. Mexican food for dinner, sizzling fajitas, and a stop at Sam's Club to pick up some christmas and birthday presents. Another great day under the belt. Tomorrow will be fun as well. We'll have lunch at In and Out, celebrate brother Ken's b-day, and gorge ourselves on leftovers.
G'nite!
They'd been up since 3:45am to get coveted purses, jackets, tool sets, tvs, xboxes, etc. Ryan and I strolled into Walmart at 8 and picked up the couple of things we were interested in without crowded lines or freezing our asses off in the cold Kingman wind. It was bliss. The best shopping in a long time.
I think Ryan even said something about the awesome customer service at walmart and it being like a scene from a movie. This Walmart was built just a couple of years ago and is super clean, wasn't really crowded...esp for being the day after Thanksgiving...in fact, I think it was less crowded than a normal day at the Orem Walmart.
Overall good day. Mexican food for dinner, sizzling fajitas, and a stop at Sam's Club to pick up some christmas and birthday presents. Another great day under the belt. Tomorrow will be fun as well. We'll have lunch at In and Out, celebrate brother Ken's b-day, and gorge ourselves on leftovers.
G'nite!
Thursday, November 22, 2007
A Quickie
I just realized it's really late and I want to get up at a decent hour. I'm a zombie at this point, but not as much as Ryan. He slept 1.5 hrs last night, so technically, he hasn't been to bed since Tuesday night. What a trooper.
Thanksgiving is such a fun holiday. Hillary was drunk on something and didn't make it through the prayer before she started giggling. She was almost as loud as her kids. And then she didn't want the rest of her sweet potatoes, so she plopped them on my plate. I flung them back to hers and decided I'd up the ante by tossing a kernel of corn in her ice water. Apparently that crossed the line. I got mashed potatoes in my ice water in return. Thanksgiving around here isn't a sanctimonious affair. Now that we're older and just get together as our big immediate family instead of with the grandparents, we have a blast and things are so much less stressful. It makes for a happy day. After my turkey induced coma let up we went to Hillary's for pie. yum. Now i'm on a sugar high and plan on falling asleep to last night's episode of Private Practice.
I hope everyone enjoyed themselves and the 5000 calories they each consumed. Burn them off tomorrow in the wee hours of the morning.
Thanksgiving is such a fun holiday. Hillary was drunk on something and didn't make it through the prayer before she started giggling. She was almost as loud as her kids. And then she didn't want the rest of her sweet potatoes, so she plopped them on my plate. I flung them back to hers and decided I'd up the ante by tossing a kernel of corn in her ice water. Apparently that crossed the line. I got mashed potatoes in my ice water in return. Thanksgiving around here isn't a sanctimonious affair. Now that we're older and just get together as our big immediate family instead of with the grandparents, we have a blast and things are so much less stressful. It makes for a happy day. After my turkey induced coma let up we went to Hillary's for pie. yum. Now i'm on a sugar high and plan on falling asleep to last night's episode of Private Practice.
I hope everyone enjoyed themselves and the 5000 calories they each consumed. Burn them off tomorrow in the wee hours of the morning.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Happy Thanksgiving! (almost)
Evonne already posted about our saturday evening last week. And I mentioned some little tidbits about it, but I got my 2nd stocking done this week (3 to go) and wanted to post some pictures. I had grand designs of getting 6 or 7 made and really whipping them out, but I got so flippin frustrated with the darned fabric that I only did one that night...and not even to completion. I ended up sewing on the buttons Sunday and making the other one on Monday. The one with the flower will be mine and Ryan's is the one with the trees. I'm digging the flower, but I think I actually LOVE the Christmas tree buttons I found for Ryan's. I'm not sure if I'll embroider our names on them, either. We'll see. I fell in love with that red cranberry colored wool felt I used, but it was $25/yd...TWENTY-FIVE! If you know me, and you know I'm cheap, I almost fainted when I saw how much it was. I didn't have time to make another stop for a different store and no coupons in hand for this little Quilting Cottage I got it at. The cream pom-pom trim is from Moda and was only $2/yrd. A bargain if you ask me. It adds so much to the overall look.
Yesterday at work we had our monthly company activity. This time we had our First Annual Turkey Shoot (film fest) and filmed a few movies in teams and they rented the theater down the street from us for an hour and had an open concession stand. First time popcorn didn't cost me $5 :)
This was ours: A Napolean Dynamite Trailer/Teaser/Movie in 4 Minutes
Chad is a pretty convincing Napolean. The sound isn't the best, but we had so much fun. I can't get the one that I liked the best to load, but I'll get it.
They had our Film Fest on the marquee at the sticky shoes theater in AF. We work a lot, huh?
Yesterday at work we had our monthly company activity. This time we had our First Annual Turkey Shoot (film fest) and filmed a few movies in teams and they rented the theater down the street from us for an hour and had an open concession stand. First time popcorn didn't cost me $5 :)
This was ours: A Napolean Dynamite Trailer/Teaser/Movie in 4 Minutes
Chad is a pretty convincing Napolean. The sound isn't the best, but we had so much fun. I can't get the one that I liked the best to load, but I'll get it.
They had our Film Fest on the marquee at the sticky shoes theater in AF. We work a lot, huh?
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Snacks for a car ride
Monday, November 19, 2007
I'm it
Not about me...
What is his name? Ryan Marshall
How long have you been married? 18 mos
How long did you date? 2 mos? Oh, I just looked it up. We dated 9 weeks. (BUT - we were engaged for over 7 mos...so that's respectable)
How old is he? 25
Who eats more? He eats more and he eats faster. At lunch on Saturday we were at Costco (of course) and managed to eat a piece of pizza and a polish dog AND finish before I finished my polish dog.
Who is taller? Ryan
Who sings better? Hmm...when it really counts? probably me.
Who is smarter? Ryan is for sure. This boy graduated on scholarship with honors?! who does that?
Whose temper is worse? I am pretty vocal when I'm upset and then get huffy and close off, he just bottles it in till he explodes...I'm not sure which is worse, really.
Who does the laundry? Usually Ryan, unless I need something done or am out of underwears ("I love black underwears" - what movie?)
Who does the dishes? Me
Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? Ryan
Who pays the bills? Me
Who mows the lawn? The HOA guys
Who cooks dinner? Me
Who drives when you are together? Usually Ryan.
Who is more stubborn? We both can be. It depends on the situation, really. I usually give in or feel bad and give in.
Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? Hmmm...depends on who started the argument/fight. I don't have an answer
Whose parents do you see the most? Ryan's, for sure. They live 30 min from our house (door-to-door).
Who proposed? Neither one of us did. We just said something about getting married and kind of agreed on it.
Who has more friends? He does. I like having a few close friends instead of a huge slew of acquaintances.
Who has more siblings? Definitely him.
Who wears the pants in the family? I'd say Ryan, but if you ask him, he'd probably say me.
What is his name? Ryan Marshall
How long have you been married? 18 mos
How long did you date? 2 mos? Oh, I just looked it up. We dated 9 weeks. (BUT - we were engaged for over 7 mos...so that's respectable)
How old is he? 25
Who eats more? He eats more and he eats faster. At lunch on Saturday we were at Costco (of course) and managed to eat a piece of pizza and a polish dog AND finish before I finished my polish dog.
Who is taller? Ryan
Who sings better? Hmm...when it really counts? probably me.
Who is smarter? Ryan is for sure. This boy graduated on scholarship with honors?! who does that?
Whose temper is worse? I am pretty vocal when I'm upset and then get huffy and close off, he just bottles it in till he explodes...I'm not sure which is worse, really.
Who does the laundry? Usually Ryan, unless I need something done or am out of underwears ("I love black underwears" - what movie?)
Who does the dishes? Me
Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? Ryan
Who pays the bills? Me
Who mows the lawn? The HOA guys
Who cooks dinner? Me
Who drives when you are together? Usually Ryan.
Who is more stubborn? We both can be. It depends on the situation, really. I usually give in or feel bad and give in.
Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? Hmmm...depends on who started the argument/fight. I don't have an answer
Whose parents do you see the most? Ryan's, for sure. They live 30 min from our house (door-to-door).
Who proposed? Neither one of us did. We just said something about getting married and kind of agreed on it.
Who has more friends? He does. I like having a few close friends instead of a huge slew of acquaintances.
Who has more siblings? Definitely him.
Who wears the pants in the family? I'd say Ryan, but if you ask him, he'd probably say me.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Early Holiday Baking
A trial run:
1) I'd make the sugar cookies with less flour. To answer a question about the chocolate vs. cocoa, I'd stick with chocolate. It's really foolproof to melt it. With this stuff, you just put it in a glass (or other microwave safe bowl) and microwave for 1 minute, stir, and return to microwave for another 30 seconds if needed. Let cool til ALMOST room temp (do this step ahead of time to speed up actual process.)
2) The royal icing was great for piping, but I should have made a little thinner of a version for flooding (term used when you fill in the little valley you've created with the piped icing). You can see in the pictures that it's not as smooth as royal icing typically is. dang it.
Overall, I'm happy with their turnout, esp. for a first run. I was going to use couplings and icing tips but I don't have enough couplings for all the colors, so I just used a ziplock bag and snipped the tiniest amount from the corner.
my favorite, me thinks
I love this little guy. This is the only one i didn't ruin with over-embellishing
1) I'd make the sugar cookies with less flour. To answer a question about the chocolate vs. cocoa, I'd stick with chocolate. It's really foolproof to melt it. With this stuff, you just put it in a glass (or other microwave safe bowl) and microwave for 1 minute, stir, and return to microwave for another 30 seconds if needed. Let cool til ALMOST room temp (do this step ahead of time to speed up actual process.)
2) The royal icing was great for piping, but I should have made a little thinner of a version for flooding (term used when you fill in the little valley you've created with the piped icing). You can see in the pictures that it's not as smooth as royal icing typically is. dang it.
Overall, I'm happy with their turnout, esp. for a first run. I was going to use couplings and icing tips but I don't have enough couplings for all the colors, so I just used a ziplock bag and snipped the tiniest amount from the corner.
my favorite, me thinks
I love this little guy. This is the only one i didn't ruin with over-embellishing
Saturday, November 17, 2007
A little late
Today was a busy day starting with a windshield replacement at 11(up before 10:30 on a saturday is early. all those with kids, i know, i'm such a baby, but I don't have kids yet so i can relish in it...), lunch with husband @11:30, a baby shower from 1-3, coming home and making a salad for craftnight2 with Evonne and Karen, grabbing my sewing machine and supplies and loading everything up to leave my house by 5:15 to start sewing at 6.
And we got home at 12:15. Long night, involved me swearing a lot and getting really frustrated with the first christmas stocking I was working on, a baby choking and a call to 911, and the other girls whipping out their stuff in no time and totally showing me up.
But today rocked. I love days where I'm so busy that I don't have a chance to be bored.
now...must fit in some gym time. soon. and often. the girls at the baby shower were sticks. they turned sideways and all you could see were their boobs. i hate them.
And we got home at 12:15. Long night, involved me swearing a lot and getting really frustrated with the first christmas stocking I was working on, a baby choking and a call to 911, and the other girls whipping out their stuff in no time and totally showing me up.
But today rocked. I love days where I'm so busy that I don't have a chance to be bored.
now...must fit in some gym time. soon. and often. the girls at the baby shower were sticks. they turned sideways and all you could see were their boobs. i hate them.
Friday, November 16, 2007
Shattered!
Thursday, November 15, 2007
A Recipe for You
I love gingerbread men, but I'm not the biggest fan of gingerbread cookies. My solution? Sugar cookies....chocolate sugar cookies. YUMMMMM. They're dark like gingerbread men cookies, but taste divine. And really, you very well can't have Caucasian gingerbread men.
Chocolate Sugar Cookies
Ingredients:
* 3/4 cup butter or margarine, softened
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 2 eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla
* 3 squares (3 oz.) unsweetened chocolate, melted and cooled
* 3 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
In large mixing bowl, beat together butter and sugar with mixer until light and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla; mix well. Blend in chocolate. Combine flour and baking powder; gradually add to butter mixture, beating until smooth. Cover and chill until firm, about 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 375°F. Roll dough approximately 1/8 in. thick. Dip cutters in flour (I think cocoa powder would be better) cut and transfer cookies to cookie sheet. Bake 8-10 minutes. Remove to rack and cool thoroughly.
Makes 2-2 1/2 dozen cookies.
Chocolate Sugar Cookies
Ingredients:
* 3/4 cup butter or margarine, softened
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 2 eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla
* 3 squares (3 oz.) unsweetened chocolate, melted and cooled
* 3 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
In large mixing bowl, beat together butter and sugar with mixer until light and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla; mix well. Blend in chocolate. Combine flour and baking powder; gradually add to butter mixture, beating until smooth. Cover and chill until firm, about 1 hour.
Preheat oven to 375°F. Roll dough approximately 1/8 in. thick. Dip cutters in flour (I think cocoa powder would be better) cut and transfer cookies to cookie sheet. Bake 8-10 minutes. Remove to rack and cool thoroughly.
Makes 2-2 1/2 dozen cookies.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Hi My Name is Chelsea
and I'm a blog-a-holic. I could spend hours on end reading the lives of others...my 'books' per se. I found some amazingly talent crafting folk today and not only do I covet their time and studios and goods, but their ability to create outstanding craft that will sustain and entertain them for YEARS. One of my new favorite mediums is glass glitter. I found a fantastic source for it that is TONS cheaper than what I have been paying. Shipping is a bitch, but then again, when is it not? cost is cost. But I found this because of my blog reading. Really, people sharing ideas and resources has saved me loads. And we all know how much I love to shop. When I was skinnier it was a new top or pair of pants every week; now it's fabric. I'm a fabric whore. I don't care if I already have 4 under-the-bed storage containers full of delicious fabric waiting for me to cut it to pieces and refashion it into this and that. When I see fabric I LOVE, I weigh my options, evaluate my budget, and usually get it. And I usually get it on sale.
Tonight I watched Pushing Daisies and became jealous of Ned the Pie-maker. No, not because Chuck is super cute and is a mix of Jenny Lewis and Zoey Dasche-something, but he gets to spend his days doing something he loves - making pies.
I want to be my own pie-maker someday.
Tonight I watched Pushing Daisies and became jealous of Ned the Pie-maker. No, not because Chuck is super cute and is a mix of Jenny Lewis and Zoey Dasche-something, but he gets to spend his days doing something he loves - making pies.
I want to be my own pie-maker someday.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Beowulf
One of our friends is a student in the Art Dept at BYU and was emailed an invite. So we scored some great seats to a movie we were going to see after it came out on Friday anyway.
So I have my delicious oh-so-terrible-for-me theater popcorn and gallon of diet coke and settled in. Oh yes, don't forget my 3-D glasses.
I loved this movie. It is definitely adult content. It's mostly cartoonish, well, not really. Think Halo animations and you're on the right track. It was great.
About 3/4 of the way through, after 1 bathroom break, I still had the majority of my soda left. One mishandling of it and before I knew what was happening I was holding only the lid and the straw and the few droplets of diet coke that remained. The rest was on the floor, on my pants, on my husband and, oh yes, COVERING the guy in the seat in front of me. I felt TERRIBLE.
So after the movie I profusely apologized and tried to make light of the situation by telling him it was diet, so at least it won't be sticky. What I got in return was a look of, don't talk to me tinged with utter scorn for movie theater goers that must have a gallon of soda.
So if you hear of anyone who got drenched last night in non-sticky soda, remind him I'm sorry.
So I have my delicious oh-so-terrible-for-me theater popcorn and gallon of diet coke and settled in. Oh yes, don't forget my 3-D glasses.
I loved this movie. It is definitely adult content. It's mostly cartoonish, well, not really. Think Halo animations and you're on the right track. It was great.
About 3/4 of the way through, after 1 bathroom break, I still had the majority of my soda left. One mishandling of it and before I knew what was happening I was holding only the lid and the straw and the few droplets of diet coke that remained. The rest was on the floor, on my pants, on my husband and, oh yes, COVERING the guy in the seat in front of me. I felt TERRIBLE.
So after the movie I profusely apologized and tried to make light of the situation by telling him it was diet, so at least it won't be sticky. What I got in return was a look of, don't talk to me tinged with utter scorn for movie theater goers that must have a gallon of soda.
So if you hear of anyone who got drenched last night in non-sticky soda, remind him I'm sorry.
Monday, November 12, 2007
How many painkillers did you take?
Ryan threw out his back last night at work moving a couch (reinjured an old problem). So after a night of tossing and turning, he called the HR office and asked how to report a work related incident. Ended up going to the dr. there and they basically told him he can't work. So, being well-loved as he is, one of the ladies said he'd be able to do a project and work from home until his back is better and just to take an extra dose of painkillers.
While making dinner, he drifted off to sleep. He woke up when he realized I was taking a picture of him. The funny thing about this is that he hasn't had any bottles of Coke today. Those are floating around from the gazillion he has previously consumed. I love him. He makes me laugh.
Oh! and you can see how well the pillows match my couch!
Also, almost finished:
I'm debating what to put on them to finish off. I have black buttons to consider and/or a scarf. I think I'm going with a scarf for sure. We'll see.
While making dinner, he drifted off to sleep. He woke up when he realized I was taking a picture of him. The funny thing about this is that he hasn't had any bottles of Coke today. Those are floating around from the gazillion he has previously consumed. I love him. He makes me laugh.
Oh! and you can see how well the pillows match my couch!
Also, almost finished:
I'm debating what to put on them to finish off. I have black buttons to consider and/or a scarf. I think I'm going with a scarf for sure. We'll see.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
dang it!
I can't seem to get my snowmen finished. I need to run up to battle creek canyon tomorrow during lunch to find arms for them. And then I'm not certain if I'll make scarves for them and adorn them with buttons or leave them more plain and simple and just add something down at their base...we'll see. I might do a mix of both.
Thank you to both Evonne and Shannon for their help with an embossing heat tool! Shannon was beyond generous and just GAVE hers to me. What a doll! I owe her big time, especially once you see what I used it for:
These are more than likely going to be for coworker/neighbor gifts filled with truffles or english toffee or cookies. Anyone have a fabulous recipe for english toffee? MMM...I've found a few online but want to know if anyone has any tried-and-true recipes.
And then I got this fantastical seasonal thing made tonight:
I ordered the vinyl from an etsy seller and 3 days later got it. I did have to rearrange some words because the board was only a foot wide and 2 feet long and the image was supposed to be 11.75" by 23.25" but alas, it wasn't. It didn't fit on the board as is, so I had to cut and arrange to make it work. But, I love how it turned out. I think Barn Red is my favorite painting color.
Thank you to both Evonne and Shannon for their help with an embossing heat tool! Shannon was beyond generous and just GAVE hers to me. What a doll! I owe her big time, especially once you see what I used it for:
These are more than likely going to be for coworker/neighbor gifts filled with truffles or english toffee or cookies. Anyone have a fabulous recipe for english toffee? MMM...I've found a few online but want to know if anyone has any tried-and-true recipes.
And then I got this fantastical seasonal thing made tonight:
I ordered the vinyl from an etsy seller and 3 days later got it. I did have to rearrange some words because the board was only a foot wide and 2 feet long and the image was supposed to be 11.75" by 23.25" but alas, it wasn't. It didn't fit on the board as is, so I had to cut and arrange to make it work. But, I love how it turned out. I think Barn Red is my favorite painting color.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
fall cleaning
I woke up so nice and rested in a big bed ALL to my self this morning (I love and missed my husband dearly, but I don't miss sharing the bed) and decided it was time to tackle the mess of a craft room Ryan's been getting onto me about.
So I didn't even shower until 8pm. progress? spare room is 85% done (needs a good vacuum and a few more things need homes) and I'm spent.
kronk out.
So I didn't even shower until 8pm. progress? spare room is 85% done (needs a good vacuum and a few more things need homes) and I'm spent.
kronk out.
Friday, November 09, 2007
WIPs
shouldn't really count as a post...
but I'm new to stamping/embossing. Does anyone have an embossing heat tool I could borrow for a few days?
If you do, email me! chelsealexander(@)hotmail(.)com
Thanks a gazillion :)
If you do, email me! chelsealexander(@)hotmail(.)com
Thanks a gazillion :)
Thursday, November 08, 2007
And the Winner Is...
Thank you for all the comments!
So, because of much butt-kissing (which I LOVED, by the way), I decided I wouldn't be able to choose that way and therefore did a random, yet scientific drawing (basically, me putting names in a box and holding it above my head and choosing one...very scientifical) That being said EVONNE will be receiving some greatness from yours truly. I'll get it together soon and drop it in the mail or just make a little trip to you :)
Hooray!
#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*
So this afternoon I came home to an empty house. It's been a LOOOOOOONNNNG day and I'm really ready for bed but wanted to get to my blog.
Remember Ryan's car trouble? Well yesterday afternoon I get a call from him just seething with frustration about a new wretched sound his car is making. So I call the mechanic because he's too upset to even talk about it. Turns out, Ryan takes the car over there and the sound is gone. He picks it up tonight and it starts again while he's driving. He's thinking the cold weather is making things tighter and squeakier. Looks like we need to hit up a costco-sized portion of WD-40 and get that thing lubed (that's what she said!) before it drives him crazy.
Oh yes, I came home to an empty house. Ryan's up in SouthJordan babysitting while his mom and dad are at a company event in Cali for the weekend. In addition to the nightly traffic from American Fork to Orem, we have BYU vs TCU game traffic. It was hell. A coworker I was giving a ride to needed to pick up his car in Orem by 6:30. We left at 5:25 and made it with 5 min to spare. AND, we didn't even take the freeway!!! After 10 min of going ONE mile, we got off at the next exit down and went on back streets, only to be held up there as well. Seriously, probably the most ridiculous 8 mile commute I've ever had.
Since Ryan will be gone tomorrow night as well, I'll be finishing some new crafts (which includes Evonne's gift!) and posting them to my shop.
Okay, it's almost midnight. sweet dreams.
So, because of much butt-kissing (which I LOVED, by the way), I decided I wouldn't be able to choose that way and therefore did a random, yet scientific drawing (basically, me putting names in a box and holding it above my head and choosing one...very scientifical) That being said EVONNE will be receiving some greatness from yours truly. I'll get it together soon and drop it in the mail or just make a little trip to you :)
Hooray!
#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*#*
So this afternoon I came home to an empty house. It's been a LOOOOOOONNNNG day and I'm really ready for bed but wanted to get to my blog.
Remember Ryan's car trouble? Well yesterday afternoon I get a call from him just seething with frustration about a new wretched sound his car is making. So I call the mechanic because he's too upset to even talk about it. Turns out, Ryan takes the car over there and the sound is gone. He picks it up tonight and it starts again while he's driving. He's thinking the cold weather is making things tighter and squeakier. Looks like we need to hit up a costco-sized portion of WD-40 and get that thing lubed (that's what she said!) before it drives him crazy.
Oh yes, I came home to an empty house. Ryan's up in SouthJordan babysitting while his mom and dad are at a company event in Cali for the weekend. In addition to the nightly traffic from American Fork to Orem, we have BYU vs TCU game traffic. It was hell. A coworker I was giving a ride to needed to pick up his car in Orem by 6:30. We left at 5:25 and made it with 5 min to spare. AND, we didn't even take the freeway!!! After 10 min of going ONE mile, we got off at the next exit down and went on back streets, only to be held up there as well. Seriously, probably the most ridiculous 8 mile commute I've ever had.
Since Ryan will be gone tomorrow night as well, I'll be finishing some new crafts (which includes Evonne's gift!) and posting them to my shop.
Okay, it's almost midnight. sweet dreams.
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
Blogiversary Giveaway Time!
It's been a whole year since my first post (well, as of tomorrow) so for the occasion I've decided to give away a prize. I'm not sure exactly what the winner will get...it could be a holiday decoration or something more edible, but either way, I'm sure you'll love it!
So, you have until 11/8 (tomorrow) at 9pm (MDT) to leave me a comment to be entered. I'll post who is drawn (or who leaves the funniest/most-butt-kissery note--I'll see what I feel like) tomorrow night and get something to you!
Also, I have a few new holiday decorations up my sleeve. I was going to post a picture to give a hint, but I didn't remember to take one last night before bed. If I weren't sitting on a baby tonight I'd promise it done by tomorrow. Oh well :)
**This is open for lurkers, too! So come out of the woodworks and you could win**
So, you have until 11/8 (tomorrow) at 9pm (MDT) to leave me a comment to be entered. I'll post who is drawn (or who leaves the funniest/most-butt-kissery note--I'll see what I feel like) tomorrow night and get something to you!
Also, I have a few new holiday decorations up my sleeve. I was going to post a picture to give a hint, but I didn't remember to take one last night before bed. If I weren't sitting on a baby tonight I'd promise it done by tomorrow. Oh well :)
**This is open for lurkers, too! So come out of the woodworks and you could win**
Tuesday, November 06, 2007
Peppermint Swap
I mentioned here that I recently bought some unfinished wood letters from SayItWithLetters. Deb @ Damboise designs is also organizing an ornament swap for the first 10 people that want to participate.
If you are already swamped with christmas tasks, probably not a good thing for you to sign up for, but if not!...well, go to the site, get the details and email her :)
I'm signed up and am thinking I'll get started tonight. I love the holidays!
If you are already swamped with christmas tasks, probably not a good thing for you to sign up for, but if not!...well, go to the site, get the details and email her :)
I'm signed up and am thinking I'll get started tonight. I love the holidays!
Monday, November 05, 2007
My Nose is Broken!
No, not in the cartilage-sense broken. Every little smell is making me sooo flippin' nauseous to the point that I want to throw up.
Anyone have any remedies?
Update! I know for a fact I'm not pregnant...so any other ideas?
Anyone have any remedies?
Update! I know for a fact I'm not pregnant...so any other ideas?
Sunday, November 04, 2007
Deal of the Day
With holiday baking currently the default of my thoughts, I am trying to think of ways (in a list format - to save time in the future) to make life easier.
I've seen Silpats used in many a competition on the Food Network and everyone from Alton (oh how I love thee and your bill-nye-of-food-genii)to Nigella use them. I'm not really wanting to fork out $25+ for a piece of fiberglass and silicon though...who would, right?
But in my last baking adventure I decided I was going to be too lazy to wash the pan after my batch of cookies were baked and I used parchment paper...in and of itself isn't cheap. SO, found a GREAT deal on Amazon for different sizes of Silpat mats.
a smallish one here
and a standard sized one here
And since I bought both I received free shipping. who's the shiz?
oh yeah, that'd be me.
I've seen Silpats used in many a competition on the Food Network and everyone from Alton (oh how I love thee and your bill-nye-of-food-genii)to Nigella use them. I'm not really wanting to fork out $25+ for a piece of fiberglass and silicon though...who would, right?
But in my last baking adventure I decided I was going to be too lazy to wash the pan after my batch of cookies were baked and I used parchment paper...in and of itself isn't cheap. SO, found a GREAT deal on Amazon for different sizes of Silpat mats.
a smallish one here
and a standard sized one here
And since I bought both I received free shipping. who's the shiz?
oh yeah, that'd be me.
Saturday, November 03, 2007
I'm bored. And tired. And while I shouldn't be either bored or tired (I didn't get out of bed until noon), I am.
My little dog smells like tortilla chips, which indicates bath time. Maybe I should do that, but really, I'm cozy on my couch watching this past week's episode of Pushing Daisies (possibly my FAVORITE new show this season) and I'd have to unload the dishwasher and re-load it to clean out the sink first. Ooh, I could use the spare bathroom tub. K, off to bath the puppers.
Oh! I have to share that I found a great resource for wood letters. http://sayitwithletters.blogspot.com/
and this is their pricing and letter styles
Originally I found them on Etsy, but then looked at their blog and realized it's less expensive to order through their blog than it is through Etsy (they have to cover costs of listing and the sale percentage fees), so my letters are on their way! Shipping is a doozy, but I ordered 8 letters/shapes and it was $10...on etsy, it would have been twice that!
I love Christmas crafts.
My little dog smells like tortilla chips, which indicates bath time. Maybe I should do that, but really, I'm cozy on my couch watching this past week's episode of Pushing Daisies (possibly my FAVORITE new show this season) and I'd have to unload the dishwasher and re-load it to clean out the sink first. Ooh, I could use the spare bathroom tub. K, off to bath the puppers.
Oh! I have to share that I found a great resource for wood letters. http://sayitwithletters.blogspot.com/
and this is their pricing and letter styles
Originally I found them on Etsy, but then looked at their blog and realized it's less expensive to order through their blog than it is through Etsy (they have to cover costs of listing and the sale percentage fees), so my letters are on their way! Shipping is a doozy, but I ordered 8 letters/shapes and it was $10...on etsy, it would have been twice that!
I love Christmas crafts.
Friday, November 02, 2007
6 Things of Me (and Day 2)
Tagged by Evonne
The rules of the game should be posted at the beginning of the post. Each player lists 6 facts/habits about themselves. At the end of the post, the player then tags 6 people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know that they have been tagged and asking them to read your blog.
1. I am messy. REALLY messy. Like, to the point where it bothers my husband enough he'll start cleaning. I try...I mean, I really try to clean and maintain picking up the floor and whatnot, but it has to bother me before I do anything about it. It's a WIP.
2. I HATE a dirty kitchen. I can't work in a kitchen that has dirty counters and dishes and I have to clean it up before I can cook or bake. Yes, I know what #1 says...but the rest of the house can be in ruins and the kitchen will be the only clean room.
3. I can't go a day without the internet. I read blogs while the phone is ringing at my office and between calls and during lunch.
4. I love a good deal. Who doesn't, right? But for me it's to the point of being a problem. I can't resist a great deal if it's something I can justify using or gifting within the next 12 months. It drives Ryan nuts!
5. I am a project jumper. If I don't do something start to finish, I have a hard time going back to finish it in a timely manner.
6. I LOVE socializing with food and games and crafts. If someone says, hey, lets get together and craft. I'm already one step ahead and gathering up supplies and planning what I can contribute for snacks. LOVE it.
I tag Hillary, Katie, Leah, Liz, Mandi, and Nat. You're welcome ;)
The rules of the game should be posted at the beginning of the post. Each player lists 6 facts/habits about themselves. At the end of the post, the player then tags 6 people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know that they have been tagged and asking them to read your blog.
1. I am messy. REALLY messy. Like, to the point where it bothers my husband enough he'll start cleaning. I try...I mean, I really try to clean and maintain picking up the floor and whatnot, but it has to bother me before I do anything about it. It's a WIP.
2. I HATE a dirty kitchen. I can't work in a kitchen that has dirty counters and dishes and I have to clean it up before I can cook or bake. Yes, I know what #1 says...but the rest of the house can be in ruins and the kitchen will be the only clean room.
3. I can't go a day without the internet. I read blogs while the phone is ringing at my office and between calls and during lunch.
4. I love a good deal. Who doesn't, right? But for me it's to the point of being a problem. I can't resist a great deal if it's something I can justify using or gifting within the next 12 months. It drives Ryan nuts!
5. I am a project jumper. If I don't do something start to finish, I have a hard time going back to finish it in a timely manner.
6. I LOVE socializing with food and games and crafts. If someone says, hey, lets get together and craft. I'm already one step ahead and gathering up supplies and planning what I can contribute for snacks. LOVE it.
I tag Hillary, Katie, Leah, Liz, Mandi, and Nat. You're welcome ;)
Thursday, November 01, 2007
NaBloPoMo
Or National Blog Posting Month.
This means you'll get a new post from me each day. Don't start high-fiving each other too soon, though. You'll get sick of it after day 4, I'm shore.
But later this month I DO have a giveaway (hooray for you lucky peeps), so you may want to stay tuned. :)
I've been doing various crafty-crafty projects lately, including one VERY late night a couple of weeks ago, and learning new skills.
I learned how to make this:
to which I've also made this, with fabric for another two awaiting their turns patiently.
The blue/brown/cream combo is already reserved for someone special, but the other has been posted to my shop and is looking for a new home. As much as I love these quilts, they are EXPENSIVE to make and very time consuming. I'd say each one involves between 4-6 hours from start to finish. Oh, but aren't they so worth it?! The brown fabric has tons of pills on it...it's like your favorite sweater that you wear so much and starts balling up...the saddest story. It was my favorite material...besides the cream waffle chenille. I think most of the other fabrics in either of these are from the Moda line.
If you'd like a custom order, let me know...although, i can't promise they'll be the same as the ones I've already made...they're one of a kind and i really don't think I could duplicate them exactly.
This means you'll get a new post from me each day. Don't start high-fiving each other too soon, though. You'll get sick of it after day 4, I'm shore.
But later this month I DO have a giveaway (hooray for you lucky peeps), so you may want to stay tuned. :)
I've been doing various crafty-crafty projects lately, including one VERY late night a couple of weeks ago, and learning new skills.
I learned how to make this:
to which I've also made this, with fabric for another two awaiting their turns patiently.
The blue/brown/cream combo is already reserved for someone special, but the other has been posted to my shop and is looking for a new home. As much as I love these quilts, they are EXPENSIVE to make and very time consuming. I'd say each one involves between 4-6 hours from start to finish. Oh, but aren't they so worth it?! The brown fabric has tons of pills on it...it's like your favorite sweater that you wear so much and starts balling up...the saddest story. It was my favorite material...besides the cream waffle chenille. I think most of the other fabrics in either of these are from the Moda line.
If you'd like a custom order, let me know...although, i can't promise they'll be the same as the ones I've already made...they're one of a kind and i really don't think I could duplicate them exactly.
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