This Christmas, I had a wonderful time with family and friends, and blessed as I am to come from a split family, the fun continues for me today as my mom and I celebrate our belated Christmas day. But this post is really only about the holidays in a round about way.
You see, this year, my Christmas wish list included an Ipod touch, and as its a fairly expensive gift, it was one that I didn't entirely expect to receive. Needless to say, I was oh, so surprised and grateful when it arrived under the tree in a roofing equipment box [thanks much, Dad! :)].
Since then, Itunes has been a close comrade, primarily due to Ping, which, if you're not aware, allows people to share musical preferences, much like Facebook status updates or Tweets. Generally speaking, I think Itunes is an interesting platform, and a unique way about music sales in the digital age. But in terms of Ping, I'm actually quite pleasantly surprised, as already I've stumbled upon bands I may not have otherwise, via the suggestions of others.
I have been out of my musical loop for the past year or so. Its funny, lyricism has always been close to my heart, and as both an amateur singer and songwriter, I have made it my mission from time to time to "binge song search," so to speak. Not having cable and being rather removed from the mainstream (as somewhat of a personal experiment) in the past year, I've missed a few opportunities to do this, but now I'm back in...wholeheartedly.
All of that in mind, if everyone has already heard and loved my latest find, then "Here here!" to all of you, and my apologies for being last on the bandwagon. If not, I would urge you to check out Mason Jennings' album, The Flood. Most spectacularly, it includes a song titled Between the Lines, which I am happy to say has swept me rather off of my feet. Its been quite some time since I've stumbled on an honest, unassuming love song, and let me tell you, this one has a big, kind heart, with a sweet-home sound. Somewhat reminiscent of older Ben Kweller, but with a bit more depth, its bound to go down in my personal hall of simple love song fame. Kudos, Mason Jennings.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Monday, December 20, 2010
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Cookies in the Bathtub?
I intended to post last night. I baked and baked and had a lovely time! I took photos and thought of all the wonderful commentary I might share with you about the experience and about holidays and tradition. Then, 8:30pm rolled around and I realized I was quite out of time; I had an important ladies night event to attend at my friend and manager's house. So, I bagged up my goodies, set the brownies to cool, and burst through my front door into the frigid night air...blog un-blogged. Alas, my friends, this post is doomed to be a strange one, full of half finished thoughts and yesterday's mental meandering.
BEFORE I can get into the events of days past though, I feel its probably wise to preface with my experiences thus-far today.
2am: Curl up in bed next to an already sleeping Tavi.
2am-5am: Listen to Tavi almost-snore...which is not his norm, and most definitely an annoying occurrence.
8:15am: Wake up to Tavi's alarm as he gets ready to leave for a haircut.
Sometime roughly between 8:15 and 8:45: Hear lots of shuffling and Tavi profess his love to me. I am surly in the mornings and most any circumstance in which my sleep is disturbed, so I said something along the lines of "I asked you to be quiet, and you're telling me you love me?? Go get your haircut and let me sleep for another 15 minutes!" (Apparently I take this sleep stuff WAY too seriously. As an afterthought I feel kinda bad, but the truth is, its just how I roll. I blame my mom. She never woke me as a baby.)
9:05am: Fine. I'll get out of bed. I hate you all.
9:20-9:45: Get ready and for some stupid reason decide to dry my hair since its frickin frackin freezin outside in lieu of eating breakfast. Dumb. But you'll see why soon...wait for it...
10:00am: Arrive at work. Instant crowd. Oh, my dear god, its cold. Why are you people here already? Wow, retail the last Saturday before Christmas, I love you? Heh heh...
Noonish...maybe...I have no concept of time during this point of the day: Tavi arrives, as per my txt request (thank you past self, for thinking ahead on this one), to be my hero in shining armor, baring the sweet sweet gift of Jamba Juice. Yum! Thanks, love, you saved me!
4:00pm: I ask Amanda, my manager, "Hey, Amanda, has anyone had their break yet?" To which she chortles and replies, "No, and its 4:00pm...." She went on about something involving grabbing food if we want but its almost not worth it or something. I tuned out. It was 4:00pm??????????????????? Good, god, when did that happen? Ok, fuck eating, lets just be done with this workday.
4:25pm: This is the slowest goddamn hour in existence.
5:20pm: Leave work. Get in car. Head towards Wendy's for a Spicy Chicken Ceasar Salad (my fast/quasi healthy food of choice these days).
5:50pm: Stop at home to use ladies room and change my coat. Get in Jayney's car with Tav and Jayney to go to Willow Creek for their annual Christmas Eve show (a Tavi and Jayney tradition). Yes, I did pout internally about having to go. I wanted to lay down on my bed and not move all night. My stomach hurt and I was hungry...I did NOT want to sit in church for an hour +. BUT, I went. And it was great. Beautiful music, stunning dance, and a wonderful visual story of what the birth of Jesus might have been like if it had happened in 2010. I nearly cried. For real...tears to the eye...and not just the kind that form when you're yawning and trying to hide it because you're in church and you don't want people to think that you're really crying because the priest is saying something about the economy and hardship and you're ten and all you want to be doing is reading or something, but that's disrespectful...and its not like you don't enjoy the sermon, its just that you're ten...but that's another story. :) ANYwho, Willow was worthwhile. I got to sing loudly and very much in tune (which, I remembered, was one of my very favorite aspects of church, back when I attended regularly...I no longer do, for various reasons, but that too, is another tale for another time), and I was blessed with precious memories with Tav and his mum.
9:30ishpm: We are at Kohls in Wheaton, and Tavi, bless his heart, is agonizing over what coat to get. Long story.
10:15pm: Finally, back at home. Yes, Tavi, dear, we did make it in the time-frame you mentioned. Good job. Here's a cookie. Ooooh, wait...burn! ;)
10:25pm: I shoot the shit with Andrew for a bit, whom had a very physically trying day of recovery, but was able to bond with his bed. I'm jealous.
11:00pm: Tavi returns with Arbys. Yes, more fast food. I'm sick of it, but you know what? I'm starvin, Marvin, and there's NO way I'm making a meal right now. Tav is now downstairs watchin tv, I'm blaggggin, and Andrew is still in bed.
Soooo, all of that said, you have about 10 more minutes of my time. Then I will be retiring to my gloriously comfortable bathtub, which will be filled with epson salt for my aching back and shins, as well as lovely lavender bubbles...because I am a woman, and we, as the fairer sex, have earned the right to aroma therapy (what with centuries of childbirth and all).
I love the holidays, don't get me wrong. I will never be the person who moans and groans about them, no matter how hectic they get. There is something quaint and reassuring about the ebb and flow of tradition and time spent driving family batty, all to the sound of White Christmas, over and over again. This year though, has been a new type of busy for me, and I am proud to say, that in the midst of it, I was able to find calm in baking. I made chocolate/mint chip cookies (which are apparently the rage this year, as Amanda made them too...yes, two people = rage), and yummy Ghirardelli chocolate chip brownies.
Yes, mum, I did get to eat some of my treats...and some of the brownie batter. And I am convinced, beyond all doubt, that I am impervious to salmonella poisoning via egg, simply due to years and years of building raw cookie dough tolerances. I WILL be passing this on to my children.
Here are the pics!
And yes, my spoon is smiling. :)
Ok, bath time. And maybe a cookie. Probably a cookie.
*mmmmnnnummmnuuuumm* *crunch crunch crunch* *ahhhhhhhhHHhhhhhh*
-Jen
BEFORE I can get into the events of days past though, I feel its probably wise to preface with my experiences thus-far today.
2am: Curl up in bed next to an already sleeping Tavi.
2am-5am: Listen to Tavi almost-snore...which is not his norm, and most definitely an annoying occurrence.
8:15am: Wake up to Tavi's alarm as he gets ready to leave for a haircut.
Sometime roughly between 8:15 and 8:45: Hear lots of shuffling and Tavi profess his love to me. I am surly in the mornings and most any circumstance in which my sleep is disturbed, so I said something along the lines of "I asked you to be quiet, and you're telling me you love me?? Go get your haircut and let me sleep for another 15 minutes!" (Apparently I take this sleep stuff WAY too seriously. As an afterthought I feel kinda bad, but the truth is, its just how I roll. I blame my mom. She never woke me as a baby.)
9:05am: Fine. I'll get out of bed. I hate you all.
9:20-9:45: Get ready and for some stupid reason decide to dry my hair since its frickin frackin freezin outside in lieu of eating breakfast. Dumb. But you'll see why soon...wait for it...
10:00am: Arrive at work. Instant crowd. Oh, my dear god, its cold. Why are you people here already? Wow, retail the last Saturday before Christmas, I love you? Heh heh...
Noonish...maybe...I have no concept of time during this point of the day: Tavi arrives, as per my txt request (thank you past self, for thinking ahead on this one), to be my hero in shining armor, baring the sweet sweet gift of Jamba Juice. Yum! Thanks, love, you saved me!
4:00pm: I ask Amanda, my manager, "Hey, Amanda, has anyone had their break yet?" To which she chortles and replies, "No, and its 4:00pm...." She went on about something involving grabbing food if we want but its almost not worth it or something. I tuned out. It was 4:00pm??????????????????? Good, god, when did that happen? Ok, fuck eating, lets just be done with this workday.
4:25pm: This is the slowest goddamn hour in existence.
5:20pm: Leave work. Get in car. Head towards Wendy's for a Spicy Chicken Ceasar Salad (my fast/quasi healthy food of choice these days).
5:50pm: Stop at home to use ladies room and change my coat. Get in Jayney's car with Tav and Jayney to go to Willow Creek for their annual Christmas Eve show (a Tavi and Jayney tradition). Yes, I did pout internally about having to go. I wanted to lay down on my bed and not move all night. My stomach hurt and I was hungry...I did NOT want to sit in church for an hour +. BUT, I went. And it was great. Beautiful music, stunning dance, and a wonderful visual story of what the birth of Jesus might have been like if it had happened in 2010. I nearly cried. For real...tears to the eye...and not just the kind that form when you're yawning and trying to hide it because you're in church and you don't want people to think that you're really crying because the priest is saying something about the economy and hardship and you're ten and all you want to be doing is reading or something, but that's disrespectful...and its not like you don't enjoy the sermon, its just that you're ten...but that's another story. :) ANYwho, Willow was worthwhile. I got to sing loudly and very much in tune (which, I remembered, was one of my very favorite aspects of church, back when I attended regularly...I no longer do, for various reasons, but that too, is another tale for another time), and I was blessed with precious memories with Tav and his mum.
9:30ishpm: We are at Kohls in Wheaton, and Tavi, bless his heart, is agonizing over what coat to get. Long story.
10:15pm: Finally, back at home. Yes, Tavi, dear, we did make it in the time-frame you mentioned. Good job. Here's a cookie. Ooooh, wait...burn! ;)
10:25pm: I shoot the shit with Andrew for a bit, whom had a very physically trying day of recovery, but was able to bond with his bed. I'm jealous.
11:00pm: Tavi returns with Arbys. Yes, more fast food. I'm sick of it, but you know what? I'm starvin, Marvin, and there's NO way I'm making a meal right now. Tav is now downstairs watchin tv, I'm blaggggin, and Andrew is still in bed.
Soooo, all of that said, you have about 10 more minutes of my time. Then I will be retiring to my gloriously comfortable bathtub, which will be filled with epson salt for my aching back and shins, as well as lovely lavender bubbles...because I am a woman, and we, as the fairer sex, have earned the right to aroma therapy (what with centuries of childbirth and all).
I love the holidays, don't get me wrong. I will never be the person who moans and groans about them, no matter how hectic they get. There is something quaint and reassuring about the ebb and flow of tradition and time spent driving family batty, all to the sound of White Christmas, over and over again. This year though, has been a new type of busy for me, and I am proud to say, that in the midst of it, I was able to find calm in baking. I made chocolate/mint chip cookies (which are apparently the rage this year, as Amanda made them too...yes, two people = rage), and yummy Ghirardelli chocolate chip brownies.
Yes, mum, I did get to eat some of my treats...and some of the brownie batter. And I am convinced, beyond all doubt, that I am impervious to salmonella poisoning via egg, simply due to years and years of building raw cookie dough tolerances. I WILL be passing this on to my children.
Here are the pics!
And yes, my spoon is smiling. :)
Ok, bath time. And maybe a cookie. Probably a cookie.
*mmmmnnnummmnuuuumm* *crunch crunch crunch* *ahhhhhhhhHHhhhhhh*
-Jen
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Winter's Lament
The sun is heavy;
Already tired as she moves
Pregnant, full
Across the November sky.
Nay, it is December,
And her weight is born
Of the same cause
As my worn forgetfulness.
It is slowing time.
Molasses, gathers in our blood,
Yet we ignore
This call to hibernate.
Unnatural creatures,
Rarely giving pause
To surmise the design
Making our fellow mammals rest;
Oh soft, how they move,
Shaking their heads,
For they know the pace
To which the race ends.
-JMS
This is an original poem that I penned at the birth of winter last year (2009) and haven't shared with the world until now. I can't say I currently feel quite as introspective as I did at the time I wrote it, but I think that's all the more reason to post it now. I'm quite busy, and happy to be, as most of my free-time work is centered around art and creation, a point for which I am grateful. Freelance projects seem to be knocking at my door regularly now (thank you to those of you who have a hand in that!), and I have the outlines of a plan for my future forming in my head, after many long months of self actualization drought. All of that in mind, it still seems important to remember a slower, more natural pace. For even though my life, as governed by our society, cannot currently rest for the winter months, I can find example in the creatures who wait patiently for their Spring to come.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Tangled
Tangled was superb. Definitely a throw back to Disney's past animated glory. For those of you who would consider some of their more recent flicks a disappointment, rest-assured, this new production lends hope to the theory that they are returning to an era of well written screen adaptations and classic animation styling.
That's my two cents.
I'm dead tired. Sorry to be brief.
Ciao!
That's my two cents.
I'm dead tired. Sorry to be brief.
Ciao!
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Busy Times for Busy Minds...
...And mine is running on overdrive!
So, in about 3 minutes from the time I sit down to write this post, my Blueverve Studio will be featured in the Photography Art section of Etsy. Wooohoo!
Ok, so this is actually a purchased spot, and not actually as cool as it would be if I had been placed up in a featured position because a webmaster at Etsy thought my store was the bomb-diggety, but that's ok. It's a step in the direction of getting noticed, and at this point, that's the best I can do. If you get a chance to stop by today (as yes, it is now past 12:00am on Thursday, December 2nd, 2010), be sure to let me know what you think of the prints I have posted thus far. I'm all ears for suggestions in terms of what you'd like to see more of (print sizes, types of photography, color schemes, multiple prints from a series for sale together at discounted rates, etc.).
Also, on a related note, last night I was able to finish up my first oil on wood, large scale painting. I'm pretty excited...it turned out pretty well for a first go. There's certainly a lot to take in, so give it a few moments to "speak to you." Its been pretty funny, most of the people who have seen it thus far in its various stages of completion have been very vocal about what they've seen hidden in the tree trunks. I'd love to hear what you can see! :)
Thus far we have:
Mother Mary
A baby
A witch
A frog
A duck
A goblin
A lion
A moon
An old man or 3
A man
and my favorite comment so far...a penis with arms? You know who you are! ;)
I've posted quick cell phone shots for now, but once its dried and I figure out the best back mount it will be up for sale at the Etsy shop with detailed photos and description.
Thanks for your time...I hope you're having a happy start to December! (I am! It's been a long day full of physical exhaustion and pain, but man, oh man, there was SNOW!!! Yipee!)
Cheers,
Jen
So, in about 3 minutes from the time I sit down to write this post, my Blueverve Studio will be featured in the Photography Art section of Etsy. Wooohoo!
Ok, so this is actually a purchased spot, and not actually as cool as it would be if I had been placed up in a featured position because a webmaster at Etsy thought my store was the bomb-diggety, but that's ok. It's a step in the direction of getting noticed, and at this point, that's the best I can do. If you get a chance to stop by today (as yes, it is now past 12:00am on Thursday, December 2nd, 2010), be sure to let me know what you think of the prints I have posted thus far. I'm all ears for suggestions in terms of what you'd like to see more of (print sizes, types of photography, color schemes, multiple prints from a series for sale together at discounted rates, etc.).
Also, on a related note, last night I was able to finish up my first oil on wood, large scale painting. I'm pretty excited...it turned out pretty well for a first go. There's certainly a lot to take in, so give it a few moments to "speak to you." Its been pretty funny, most of the people who have seen it thus far in its various stages of completion have been very vocal about what they've seen hidden in the tree trunks. I'd love to hear what you can see! :)
Thus far we have:
Mother Mary
A baby
A witch
A frog
A duck
A goblin
A lion
A moon
An old man or 3
A man
and my favorite comment so far...a penis with arms? You know who you are! ;)
I've posted quick cell phone shots for now, but once its dried and I figure out the best back mount it will be up for sale at the Etsy shop with detailed photos and description.
Thanks for your time...I hope you're having a happy start to December! (I am! It's been a long day full of physical exhaustion and pain, but man, oh man, there was SNOW!!! Yipee!)
Cheers,
Jen
Monday, November 29, 2010
Blueverve Studio Opening!
Its Cyber Monday, a time for excessive online searching and maddening deals, so in the spirit of such wonderment, I'd like to announce the opening of my Etsy store, Blueverve Studio. Visit today and recieve 20% OFF of your order when you enter promo code "CyberMonday2010"!
Recently set up in order to better serve your purchasing needs, my shop will offer a wide range of fine art photography prints, fine art paintings, crafts, and handmade goods (all of which are original creations, of course). Right now there are various photography prints posted, ranging in price from $5.00 to $55.00 (for a set of 3 8x12 prints), so please take some time to peruse the goods! Many are set up to be printed upon order, so if you are looking for holiday gifts, please keep in mind that items listed as such will require an additional 3-5 days to arrive (so, somewhere between 6-12 days with shipping, in the United States).
I'm hoping to have some lovely oil on wood paintings up for purchase within the next week or so, and an additional acrylic painting or two as well, so keep checking in for those, as I'm not sure how long they will be around.
Thanks for your support...and happy shopping! I hope you enjoy Blueverve Studio, as well as all of the other stops along the way on your cyber journey today!
-Jen
Recently set up in order to better serve your purchasing needs, my shop will offer a wide range of fine art photography prints, fine art paintings, crafts, and handmade goods (all of which are original creations, of course). Right now there are various photography prints posted, ranging in price from $5.00 to $55.00 (for a set of 3 8x12 prints), so please take some time to peruse the goods! Many are set up to be printed upon order, so if you are looking for holiday gifts, please keep in mind that items listed as such will require an additional 3-5 days to arrive (so, somewhere between 6-12 days with shipping, in the United States).
I'm hoping to have some lovely oil on wood paintings up for purchase within the next week or so, and an additional acrylic painting or two as well, so keep checking in for those, as I'm not sure how long they will be around.
Thanks for your support...and happy shopping! I hope you enjoy Blueverve Studio, as well as all of the other stops along the way on your cyber journey today!
-Jen
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Not 24, not 26
I wonder what it might be like to have my youthful beauty back
To feel as though the world were easy, expansive and free
Too quickly fled the times of daydreaming and making up
And now I know my right to stand in defiance was more than justified
I wonder how it would feel, to walk around that track again
To feel as if the evening stars were always on my side
Too quickly all those memories fade and leave an empty nothingness
And now I know my arms reach out, wishing they were wings
I wonder what it might be like to dream on solid clouds again
To make reality stand still, in essence, while I write
Too quickly past the date time sped, racing towards tomorrow
And all the while here I stand, knowing I might find
To feel as though the world were easy, expansive and free
Too quickly fled the times of daydreaming and making up
And now I know my right to stand in defiance was more than justified
I wonder how it would feel, to walk around that track again
To feel as if the evening stars were always on my side
Too quickly all those memories fade and leave an empty nothingness
And now I know my arms reach out, wishing they were wings
I wonder what it might be like to dream on solid clouds again
To make reality stand still, in essence, while I write
Too quickly past the date time sped, racing towards tomorrow
And all the while here I stand, knowing I might find
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
The Hippos are Coming!
Never fear, the hippo blog will soon be here!
Its been a pretty busy extended weekend, jam-packed with adventure (Bristol Ren Fair, Key Lime Cove, and Six Flags), and surrounded by planning and decision making, so I'm a tad behind on the hippo post, as requested by Tav. BUT, I did some research this evening, and a post is forming, so hang tight, and there should be something pretty fun headed your way soon.
I hope you all had a lovely weekend and are enjoying a glamtastic week so far. Yup, glamtastic. Fictitious word of the day!
Cheerio!
Jen
Its been a pretty busy extended weekend, jam-packed with adventure (Bristol Ren Fair, Key Lime Cove, and Six Flags), and surrounded by planning and decision making, so I'm a tad behind on the hippo post, as requested by Tav. BUT, I did some research this evening, and a post is forming, so hang tight, and there should be something pretty fun headed your way soon.
I hope you all had a lovely weekend and are enjoying a glamtastic week so far. Yup, glamtastic. Fictitious word of the day!
Cheerio!
Jen
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Back to the World of Technology
So as Tavi begins his tour in the land of website testing and I dive headfirst back into finding something suitable and enjoyable to pursue (the shortfall of my trip's fund raising has lead me to take a step back and reconsider things, yet again), I find both of us encountering the joys of techno-land; the mystical universe in which things randomly reboot, auto-saves fail, and the very tools of your trade make it their daily goal to hate you. Yes, techno-land is a fun place. Surprise awaits you there, behind every string of code, around each browser window. It is a miracle so many of us organically sentient beings traverse this space and make it back to tell the tale.
Malfunctions and hiccups aside, it does feel quite nice to be making friends with my computer-savvy side again. I certainly don't claim to be IT Crowd status (although that show is Grrrrreat!), but the niche I have serves me well and after thousands of clams invested in the training that got me there, it is more than nice to be exercising the skill. AND, its something to write about. Working in techno-land always provides great little bits of inspiration for the Steam punk style screen play that I'm (still) writing.
But, writing is still sticky. It doesn't flow from me as it should...mostly from lack of inspiration these days. I feel I need a change, deep down in my soul. I have felt it for quite some time, and those of you who know me personally are no fool to that fact. So until it comes, I'm going to be open to suggestion. Starting now, until...well, we'll see how it goes...I'd like to try writing this blog based upon reader suggestion. You give me a topic...I'll research (or not, if not necessary) and write. Sound good?
Lets give it a go.
Suggestions, please?
-Jen
Malfunctions and hiccups aside, it does feel quite nice to be making friends with my computer-savvy side again. I certainly don't claim to be IT Crowd status (although that show is Grrrrreat!), but the niche I have serves me well and after thousands of clams invested in the training that got me there, it is more than nice to be exercising the skill. AND, its something to write about. Working in techno-land always provides great little bits of inspiration for the Steam punk style screen play that I'm (still) writing.
But, writing is still sticky. It doesn't flow from me as it should...mostly from lack of inspiration these days. I feel I need a change, deep down in my soul. I have felt it for quite some time, and those of you who know me personally are no fool to that fact. So until it comes, I'm going to be open to suggestion. Starting now, until...well, we'll see how it goes...I'd like to try writing this blog based upon reader suggestion. You give me a topic...I'll research (or not, if not necessary) and write. Sound good?
Lets give it a go.
Suggestions, please?
-Jen
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Shiner!
Big news!
Today I received my very first black eye!
What a rebel, eh??
Well, I wish I could say it was all that interesting. IN fact, the culprit was Tavi's elbow, in cohorts with a silverfish. Yes, a silverfish. Those most disturbing wiggly bugs...long and thin and big fans of eating through precious literature and artwork! One was perched on a roll of tissue on our bed, and as we were laying there talking, taking a break from folding clothes, I spotted it out of the corner of my eye.
Naturally, I jumped.
That's where time sped up, Tavi jerked in response, and before I knew it, I saw his elbow flying quickly towards my right eye!
CONTACT! CRASH! LOUD NOISES!!!!!!!!
Ok, so I overreacted and woke poor Andrew up from what may have been a restful slumber (as he is just recently back from camping up north in WI with Mike), and probably scared Tav half to death. But it HURT!
The result is a happy little lump, just above my eyelid and below the far outer crest of my eyebrow. Its hot and bothered, and determined to swell my eye shut, although luckily at this point it isn't retaining much color. In any case, I am somewhat glad to have it around, because it has always been a small aspiration of mine to have a black eye someday, as odd as that might sound. Just for experience value. :)
Guess tonight is my lucky night.
And following such an odd day! Power outages, weird work day, interesting customers, and a handful of project twists and turns. Here's hoping tomorrow will be a tad more mellow, very productive, and not too swollen.
Sorry, Tav, I couldn't NOT write about it. Not after wanting one for this long ;)
Love you...I know you feel really bad. Lets call it Karmic payback for your fun on the porch! xoxox
For the rest of you, sorry about the above mush :)
Have a great night all, and keep your hopes with The Great American Road Trip - Westward Expansion in its last 7 days of funding!
-Jen
Today I received my very first black eye!
What a rebel, eh??
Well, I wish I could say it was all that interesting. IN fact, the culprit was Tavi's elbow, in cohorts with a silverfish. Yes, a silverfish. Those most disturbing wiggly bugs...long and thin and big fans of eating through precious literature and artwork! One was perched on a roll of tissue on our bed, and as we were laying there talking, taking a break from folding clothes, I spotted it out of the corner of my eye.
Naturally, I jumped.
That's where time sped up, Tavi jerked in response, and before I knew it, I saw his elbow flying quickly towards my right eye!
CONTACT! CRASH! LOUD NOISES!!!!!!!!
Ok, so I overreacted and woke poor Andrew up from what may have been a restful slumber (as he is just recently back from camping up north in WI with Mike), and probably scared Tav half to death. But it HURT!
The result is a happy little lump, just above my eyelid and below the far outer crest of my eyebrow. Its hot and bothered, and determined to swell my eye shut, although luckily at this point it isn't retaining much color. In any case, I am somewhat glad to have it around, because it has always been a small aspiration of mine to have a black eye someday, as odd as that might sound. Just for experience value. :)
Guess tonight is my lucky night.
And following such an odd day! Power outages, weird work day, interesting customers, and a handful of project twists and turns. Here's hoping tomorrow will be a tad more mellow, very productive, and not too swollen.
Sorry, Tav, I couldn't NOT write about it. Not after wanting one for this long ;)
Love you...I know you feel really bad. Lets call it Karmic payback for your fun on the porch! xoxox
For the rest of you, sorry about the above mush :)
Have a great night all, and keep your hopes with The Great American Road Trip - Westward Expansion in its last 7 days of funding!
-Jen
Monday, July 26, 2010
In the delicate balance between planning for what may come and juggling the current day to day, I've found a lot of pleasure flipping through old childhood comforts...especially comics.
In light of that, I would like to share a poem with you from one of my all time favorite authors and artists. Although some would argue him simply a man of sketches and cute comics, those who have read even one of his many collections know him to be both wise and witty. So without further delay, the esteemed Bill Watterson:
“I made a big decision a little while ago.
I don’t remember what it was, which prob’ly goes to show
That many times a simple choice can prove to be essential
Even though it often might appear inconsequential.
I must have been distracted when I left my home because
Left or right I’m sure I went. (I wonder which it was!)
Anyway, I never veered: I walked in that direction
Utterly absorbed, it seems, in quiet introspection.
For no reason I can think of, I’ve wandered far astray.
And that is how I got to where I find myself today.”
Reminiscent of another favorite of mine by Robert Frost, which I'm sure most of you have read, this short poem by Watterson pretty well sums up where the past few months of planning this venture have brought me. I began, with no past experience planning such an extensive endeavor entirely on my own, and have pushed through to the present, learning, introspective all the way. The end result, as I find it today, is that I have never been more motivated, more inspired, more moved, to make something wonderful, not just for myself, but for everyone who believes in like ideas and even for those who have no concept of what I'm/we're doing - yet. I thank you all for that drive, as you have sown it into me, each step of the way.
In light of that, I would like to share a poem with you from one of my all time favorite authors and artists. Although some would argue him simply a man of sketches and cute comics, those who have read even one of his many collections know him to be both wise and witty. So without further delay, the esteemed Bill Watterson:
“I made a big decision a little while ago.
I don’t remember what it was, which prob’ly goes to show
That many times a simple choice can prove to be essential
Even though it often might appear inconsequential.
I must have been distracted when I left my home because
Left or right I’m sure I went. (I wonder which it was!)
Anyway, I never veered: I walked in that direction
Utterly absorbed, it seems, in quiet introspection.
For no reason I can think of, I’ve wandered far astray.
And that is how I got to where I find myself today.”
Reminiscent of another favorite of mine by Robert Frost, which I'm sure most of you have read, this short poem by Watterson pretty well sums up where the past few months of planning this venture have brought me. I began, with no past experience planning such an extensive endeavor entirely on my own, and have pushed through to the present, learning, introspective all the way. The end result, as I find it today, is that I have never been more motivated, more inspired, more moved, to make something wonderful, not just for myself, but for everyone who believes in like ideas and even for those who have no concept of what I'm/we're doing - yet. I thank you all for that drive, as you have sown it into me, each step of the way.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Hello all!
http://www.manifestdestinyink.com/documents/DungenessSpit_Photojournalism.pdf
Please let me know what you think!
Thanks!
Jen
After a rather short and encouraging chat with Tavi this evening, I began putting together a small mock-up of what a typical 1 day location section might end up looking like in the completed book. The pages are below, for all of you to take a peek at. Essentially I've taken some quick shots from our recent trip to Washington, and written up a short run through of the destination. Please, keep in mind this is a few weeks after having been at the location, so it is not quite the level of detail that will be included in the book, description or photo-wise, but it should give you a good idea of what I'm aiming for! There is also a higher resolution .pdf available for you to view here:
http://www.manifestdestinyink.com/documents/DungenessSpit_Photojournalism.pdf
Please let me know what you think!
Thanks!
Jen
Monday, June 14, 2010
Whirlwind of activity!
This is brief...I just wanted to tell everyone that my peas have flowered! By god, they are beautiful. Each bud is unique (yes, I am going to gush over them as though they were special snowflakes, in a most anti-Fight Club manner), ranging from soft lavender hues to bright magenta.
Also, I am a busy bee, getting ready to head out of town.
Funding for GART - West continues...still plenty of time to pledge!
And, now as 24 has come and gone, I can very safely say that I think 25 may be one of my busiest years of life yet.
Also, I stumbled on a facebook group yesterday which said something to the effect of, "can we please use Sarah Palin to plug the oil pipe in the Gulf?" Brilliant, I say! Heroism at its best for her, and a solution beyond my suggestion, which is of course to let it all run out so that we are forced to finally consider alternative options. BUT, a Sarah Palin plug would greatly reduce further damage to our ecosystems in that area and world-wide, so I'm all for it. ;)
Also, I am a busy bee, getting ready to head out of town.
Funding for GART - West continues...still plenty of time to pledge!
And, now as 24 has come and gone, I can very safely say that I think 25 may be one of my busiest years of life yet.
Also, I stumbled on a facebook group yesterday which said something to the effect of, "can we please use Sarah Palin to plug the oil pipe in the Gulf?" Brilliant, I say! Heroism at its best for her, and a solution beyond my suggestion, which is of course to let it all run out so that we are forced to finally consider alternative options. BUT, a Sarah Palin plug would greatly reduce further damage to our ecosystems in that area and world-wide, so I'm all for it. ;)
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Tuesday Tuesday
Hey!
It's been a busy ride! The past week or so has been jam-packed with party planning, party throwing, birthday celebrating, and projects galore!
I have officially launched my book project, The Great American Road Trip - Westward Expansion, which can be found, in its entirety on Kickstarter.com. Kickstarter is a wonderful website which provides people with a platform upon which to place their projects for funding. It is to projects what ebay is to online markets/stores.
In a nutshell, The Great American Road Trip - Westward Expansion, aims to be a hard copy photojournalism/travel guide book, researched, documented, and created essentially on the road, so as to fully embody its title. The book will specifically detail a series of major natural wonders in Western America, in an effort to spark renewed interest in the preservation and enjoyment of American wilderness. In addition to the major attractions that will be showcased in the National Geographic-style photography of the book, GART - West will offer a unique travel guide to local points of interest in the areas which surround the main highlights.
The entire project encompasses a 6 week road trip, during which I, as writer and photographer, will travel a set route, accompanied by a driver/assistant, to photograph the selected natural attractions and create a running manuscript for the book. Upon completion of the road trip, a month’s time will be set for the editing of the book. Once the editing is complete, the book will be printed/published (this will be done by CL Graphics, Inc. in Crystal Lake, IL) and then marketed.
PLEASE, check out our Kickstarter page for further information and to help support the project. The team and I have all sorts of wonderful incentives to make your donation worthwhile.
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1237596120/the-great-american-road-trip-westward-expansion
GART - West aside, I am proud to report that my plants are growing beautifully. I am quite proud, and also consider myself lucky, as I've been blessed with the gift of exceptionally great chives and a classy little tomato plant, supplied by my work buddy, Dave. Dave is nearly a master gardener, and quite frankly, has been a huge inspiration and fantastic source of helpful hints during my foray into deck gardening this year. I would also like to take a moment to thank my landlord, Robin, for although I doubt she will come across my little blog, she has been wonderful about letting my plants take over our railings, and has even offered some space in her garden if I run out of room. Thanks, Robin!
Well, time dwindles, the night grows old, and as I have to work tomorrow, I must bid you all adieu. I leave you with these most recent photos of the gardens, indoor and out...
ciao!
It's been a busy ride! The past week or so has been jam-packed with party planning, party throwing, birthday celebrating, and projects galore!
I have officially launched my book project, The Great American Road Trip - Westward Expansion, which can be found, in its entirety on Kickstarter.com. Kickstarter is a wonderful website which provides people with a platform upon which to place their projects for funding. It is to projects what ebay is to online markets/stores.
In a nutshell, The Great American Road Trip - Westward Expansion, aims to be a hard copy photojournalism/travel guide book, researched, documented, and created essentially on the road, so as to fully embody its title. The book will specifically detail a series of major natural wonders in Western America, in an effort to spark renewed interest in the preservation and enjoyment of American wilderness. In addition to the major attractions that will be showcased in the National Geographic-style photography of the book, GART - West will offer a unique travel guide to local points of interest in the areas which surround the main highlights.
The entire project encompasses a 6 week road trip, during which I, as writer and photographer, will travel a set route, accompanied by a driver/assistant, to photograph the selected natural attractions and create a running manuscript for the book. Upon completion of the road trip, a month’s time will be set for the editing of the book. Once the editing is complete, the book will be printed/published (this will be done by CL Graphics, Inc. in Crystal Lake, IL) and then marketed.
PLEASE, check out our Kickstarter page for further information and to help support the project. The team and I have all sorts of wonderful incentives to make your donation worthwhile.
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1237596120/the-great-american-road-trip-westward-expansion
GART - West aside, I am proud to report that my plants are growing beautifully. I am quite proud, and also consider myself lucky, as I've been blessed with the gift of exceptionally great chives and a classy little tomato plant, supplied by my work buddy, Dave. Dave is nearly a master gardener, and quite frankly, has been a huge inspiration and fantastic source of helpful hints during my foray into deck gardening this year. I would also like to take a moment to thank my landlord, Robin, for although I doubt she will come across my little blog, she has been wonderful about letting my plants take over our railings, and has even offered some space in her garden if I run out of room. Thanks, Robin!
Well, time dwindles, the night grows old, and as I have to work tomorrow, I must bid you all adieu. I leave you with these most recent photos of the gardens, indoor and out...
ciao!
Friday, May 28, 2010
Phew! Shopping at mass markets is exhausting!
Ok, so perhaps mass markets isn't the best term. Maybe its more like, "Welcome to Costco, I love you," if you get the reference.
What a daunting day. Party planning is fun, but feeding 50 + people is certainly a task.
This is just a short update...the big bash to celebrate Tav's graduation is tomorrow, 2pm-7:30pm, and I hardly have time to work on my projects right now, but, I did submit to Kickstarter, so officially, MILESTONE 1 of The Great American Road Trip - Westward Expansion, was reached today! More to come on what that is, exactly. I promise, I will stop being vague just as soon as the timing is right and I have a bit more information posted online for ya'll to read!
In the mean time, happy holidays, America. Enjoy the sunshine, as it should be plentiful (thank god!). Drink many refreshing beverages. Eat good food. Wrap yourselves in a blanket of good company, and relax! But above all, go enjoy nature! Its out there, you just have to look!
Peace out,
Jen
Ok, so perhaps mass markets isn't the best term. Maybe its more like, "Welcome to Costco, I love you," if you get the reference.
What a daunting day. Party planning is fun, but feeding 50 + people is certainly a task.
This is just a short update...the big bash to celebrate Tav's graduation is tomorrow, 2pm-7:30pm, and I hardly have time to work on my projects right now, but, I did submit to Kickstarter, so officially, MILESTONE 1 of The Great American Road Trip - Westward Expansion, was reached today! More to come on what that is, exactly. I promise, I will stop being vague just as soon as the timing is right and I have a bit more information posted online for ya'll to read!
In the mean time, happy holidays, America. Enjoy the sunshine, as it should be plentiful (thank god!). Drink many refreshing beverages. Eat good food. Wrap yourselves in a blanket of good company, and relax! But above all, go enjoy nature! Its out there, you just have to look!
Peace out,
Jen
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Its been far too long, and I apologize.
There are a multitude of projects that I'm in the middle of right now. One large one for myself, two for the Spice House, another small one for me, and planning Tav's upcoming grad party. So the long and short is that I'm swamped. And its cool to be swamped, but its exhausting.
It also makes it a tad difficult to blog regularly. But excuses aside, here's a thought or two:
Harvey Danger, the early 90's one hit wonder-type staple, may actually be somewhat underrated. Certainly, he has a simple, systematic song writing style, but his lyrics are entertaining and paired with what can only be described as a comforting blend of pre-emo (thankfully) pop rock, a combination well loved or at least nostalgically reminisced by the Generation X fringe on most sunny summer days. Check out Where Have All The Merrymakers Gone? for examples.
Tomatoes. And, epic tomatoes, with a reputation, no less. Yes, I am grateful, as they are what I have recently inherited from a good pal at work. And I am excited! I never really took the time to enjoy tomatoes growing up, but now I see quite clearly how much they are to be savored. And actually, its fitting that this would be my first tomato plant, as it is the same pal who gave it to me that introduced me to the sheer glory of an heirloom tomato with nothing adorning its soft smooth skin but a slinky covering of coarse ground black pepper. Yum!
There is nothing more concerning then hearing the sound of explosions coming from your living room. Oh wait, that's just virtual entertainment in the form of Halo.
Wii resort is a blast. Archery, especially. And for those in the mood for something a bit more unique, canoeing is a pretty fun choice as well.
If your heart were a large wave
Breaking over mine
I think I just may be inclined
To lay back and enjoy it
The salty taste of sunshine
And the leftover leftovers
Of a million happy fish
There are a multitude of projects that I'm in the middle of right now. One large one for myself, two for the Spice House, another small one for me, and planning Tav's upcoming grad party. So the long and short is that I'm swamped. And its cool to be swamped, but its exhausting.
It also makes it a tad difficult to blog regularly. But excuses aside, here's a thought or two:
Harvey Danger, the early 90's one hit wonder-type staple, may actually be somewhat underrated. Certainly, he has a simple, systematic song writing style, but his lyrics are entertaining and paired with what can only be described as a comforting blend of pre-emo (thankfully) pop rock, a combination well loved or at least nostalgically reminisced by the Generation X fringe on most sunny summer days. Check out Where Have All The Merrymakers Gone? for examples.
Tomatoes. And, epic tomatoes, with a reputation, no less. Yes, I am grateful, as they are what I have recently inherited from a good pal at work. And I am excited! I never really took the time to enjoy tomatoes growing up, but now I see quite clearly how much they are to be savored. And actually, its fitting that this would be my first tomato plant, as it is the same pal who gave it to me that introduced me to the sheer glory of an heirloom tomato with nothing adorning its soft smooth skin but a slinky covering of coarse ground black pepper. Yum!
There is nothing more concerning then hearing the sound of explosions coming from your living room. Oh wait, that's just virtual entertainment in the form of Halo.
Wii resort is a blast. Archery, especially. And for those in the mood for something a bit more unique, canoeing is a pretty fun choice as well.
If your heart were a large wave
Breaking over mine
I think I just may be inclined
To lay back and enjoy it
The salty taste of sunshine
And the leftover leftovers
Of a million happy fish
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
New Moves on Old Ideas
I'm really excited. A few new possibilities have opened up, which have jump started plans for an idea I had after a road trip to Colorado with Tavi last year. I have to be rather vague for the time being, but rest assured I'll be more than happy to share once the timing is right. For now, I'm in the planning stages, and very much glad to have some possible direction for the future. This is something I'm really hoping will come to fruition, and though it will be a goal with much work involved, I'm sure it will be very rewarding if accomplished.
Anywho, its late at night and I'm trying to calm myself down. The boys are not yet home from their Monday night magic games, so I have the house to myself (which is lovely). I've been increasingly emotionally exhausted as of the past week or so, so its nice to have the space in which I don't have to compromise my personal emotional space due to the needs of others. Yup, that may come across as selfish, but when you live AND work in close quarters with 3 others, its incredibly difficult at times to find enough moments in a day in which you can simply live without feeling as though you're being bombarded by other people's vibes.
So I'm going to curl up with my book of Flower Remedies and decompress.
Bonus Nachos.
Anywho, its late at night and I'm trying to calm myself down. The boys are not yet home from their Monday night magic games, so I have the house to myself (which is lovely). I've been increasingly emotionally exhausted as of the past week or so, so its nice to have the space in which I don't have to compromise my personal emotional space due to the needs of others. Yup, that may come across as selfish, but when you live AND work in close quarters with 3 others, its incredibly difficult at times to find enough moments in a day in which you can simply live without feeling as though you're being bombarded by other people's vibes.
So I'm going to curl up with my book of Flower Remedies and decompress.
Bonus Nachos.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
A beautiful day...
Two of them, actually.
Today was bright and sunny and cheerful, and despite having to work, still very enjoyable. It also marked day one of year three for Tavi and I, which made my heart smile all over.
Yesterday, was also lovely, especially in the evening, on the way back from Tavi's graduation. Which, by the by, took forever. Forever being about four hours. :) I guess four isn't that long, but such a huge period was just a long list of names being called off! Thank god Columbia splits their graduation ceremonies into multiple days!
In any case, it was a pretty lovely event. Wonderful keynote/guest speakers, and a great presentation of video from Manifest and Industry night, both of which Tavi participated in. In fact, his group from the 12 hour game competition at Manifest won. It was a pretty goofy game...the guidelines were for each group to create a game that was their interpretation of transgendered capture the flag.
Transgendered capture the flag, you say? Yes...transgendered capture the flag. And let me tell you, Tavi's artwork was pretty classy. His was the only character design that directly touched on "transgendered" in a literal sense. He took the bull by the horns and put a pink skirt on it, so to speak. But in the end, their game stood strong, and despite lacking a win trigger (so the fun was endless!), theirs was the only game that played without crashing. So success! Yet another great even for the Tavmiester.
As for the graduation ceremony itself, he did have a bit of a time of it, as the woman announcing the students pronounced him as "Tahvis." But you can't win them all, I suppose. I guess that's just what his true official name must be.
I have been putting together plans for a 'frontage roof,' so to speak, for a display at the Spice House, as well as a mockup/prototype spice rack for jar sales. Both displays will be great woodworking projects, and a chance for me to do more wood etching/burning with my new tool (relatively new...a few months now). I'm pretty excited. I love the chance to do hands on projects like this. Making things from nothing is such a satisfying feeling, one that I'm so glad I get to experience a good amount of in this position. Paltronics was a lot of creation, but the problem with creating animations for the casino industry is that you have a very limited scope, creatively speaking, and in the end, you very rarely get the satisfaction of holding your work, tangible in your hands. I know that whatever it is that I do in the future, I need to be able to create things that I can hold and touch when the day is done. Whether that be paintings, or woodwork, or books.
Ah, the sleep of peace. Tavi has slipped into its comforting embrace and is knocked out cold (or quite warm, in all actuality) next to me. Bless his dear sweet heart...I love him so.
Oh, and, sidenote...we now have a Wii. Or I have a Wii, I suppose. My first real console! Woohoo! ;) Oh the games Wii will play! Hopefully Tav will make some Wii games.
That is all for now. Peace out, homies.
Today was bright and sunny and cheerful, and despite having to work, still very enjoyable. It also marked day one of year three for Tavi and I, which made my heart smile all over.
Yesterday, was also lovely, especially in the evening, on the way back from Tavi's graduation. Which, by the by, took forever. Forever being about four hours. :) I guess four isn't that long, but such a huge period was just a long list of names being called off! Thank god Columbia splits their graduation ceremonies into multiple days!
In any case, it was a pretty lovely event. Wonderful keynote/guest speakers, and a great presentation of video from Manifest and Industry night, both of which Tavi participated in. In fact, his group from the 12 hour game competition at Manifest won. It was a pretty goofy game...the guidelines were for each group to create a game that was their interpretation of transgendered capture the flag.
Transgendered capture the flag, you say? Yes...transgendered capture the flag. And let me tell you, Tavi's artwork was pretty classy. His was the only character design that directly touched on "transgendered" in a literal sense. He took the bull by the horns and put a pink skirt on it, so to speak. But in the end, their game stood strong, and despite lacking a win trigger (so the fun was endless!), theirs was the only game that played without crashing. So success! Yet another great even for the Tavmiester.
As for the graduation ceremony itself, he did have a bit of a time of it, as the woman announcing the students pronounced him as "Tahvis." But you can't win them all, I suppose. I guess that's just what his true official name must be.
I have been putting together plans for a 'frontage roof,' so to speak, for a display at the Spice House, as well as a mockup/prototype spice rack for jar sales. Both displays will be great woodworking projects, and a chance for me to do more wood etching/burning with my new tool (relatively new...a few months now). I'm pretty excited. I love the chance to do hands on projects like this. Making things from nothing is such a satisfying feeling, one that I'm so glad I get to experience a good amount of in this position. Paltronics was a lot of creation, but the problem with creating animations for the casino industry is that you have a very limited scope, creatively speaking, and in the end, you very rarely get the satisfaction of holding your work, tangible in your hands. I know that whatever it is that I do in the future, I need to be able to create things that I can hold and touch when the day is done. Whether that be paintings, or woodwork, or books.
Ah, the sleep of peace. Tavi has slipped into its comforting embrace and is knocked out cold (or quite warm, in all actuality) next to me. Bless his dear sweet heart...I love him so.
Oh, and, sidenote...we now have a Wii. Or I have a Wii, I suppose. My first real console! Woohoo! ;) Oh the games Wii will play! Hopefully Tav will make some Wii games.
That is all for now. Peace out, homies.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
The Sprouting
"With a loud thump, Saide was shaken from her reverie. The dark water pooling in small puddles about the road splashed as her heavy tires bore her Jeep Cherokee on through the sodden drizzle of the early April night. Something large, something very large, had landed on the hood of her still forward-bound vehicle. Shaken, she squinted into the black night, straining to bring into focus the massive form perched before her. Gracefully it moved, adjusting with ease to each bump and pothole she maneuvered the Jeep shakily around. Eerily enough, it seemed as though the creature predicted Saide’s every move, always remaining with its massive back turned towards her windshield, as if to mock her efforts to discover its cloaked identity."
Excerpt from an upcoming shorty by yours truly.
Excerpt from an upcoming shorty by yours truly.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Momma's
In honor of all of my mothers and the memory of childhood.
Thanks mum and Julie for all of your love, lessons, and support.
Love you always!
House at Pooh Corner
Kenny Loggins
Christopher Robin and I walked along
Under branches lit up by the moon
Posing our questions to Owl and Eeyore
As our days disappeared all too soon
But I've wandered much further today than I should
And I can't seem to find my way back to the Wood
So help me if you can
I've got to get back
To the House at Pooh Corner by one
You'd be surprised
There's so much to be done
Count all the bees in the hive
Chase all the clouds from the sky
Back to the days of Christopher Robin and Pooh
Winnie the Pooh doesn't know what to do
Got a honey jar stuck on his nose
He came to me asking help and advice
From here no one knows where he goes
So I sent him to ask of the Owl if he's there
How to loosen a jar from the nose of a bear
Help me if you can
I've got to get back
To the House at Pooh Corner by one
You'd be surprised
There's so much to be done
Count all the bees in the hive
Chase all the clouds from the sky
Back to the days of Christopher Robin and Pooh
It's hard to explain how a few precious things
Seem to follow throughout all our lives
After all's said and done I was watching my son
Sleeping there with my bear by his side
So I tucked him in, I kissed him and as I was going
I swear that the old bear whispered "Boy welcome home"
Believe me if you can
I've finally come back
To the House at Pooh Corner by one
What do you know
There's so much to be done
Count all the bees in the hive
Chase all the clouds from the sky
Back to the days of Christopher Robin
Back to the ways of Christopher Robin
Back to the days of Pooh
Thanks mum and Julie for all of your love, lessons, and support.
Love you always!
House at Pooh Corner
Kenny Loggins
Christopher Robin and I walked along
Under branches lit up by the moon
Posing our questions to Owl and Eeyore
As our days disappeared all too soon
But I've wandered much further today than I should
And I can't seem to find my way back to the Wood
So help me if you can
I've got to get back
To the House at Pooh Corner by one
You'd be surprised
There's so much to be done
Count all the bees in the hive
Chase all the clouds from the sky
Back to the days of Christopher Robin and Pooh
Winnie the Pooh doesn't know what to do
Got a honey jar stuck on his nose
He came to me asking help and advice
From here no one knows where he goes
So I sent him to ask of the Owl if he's there
How to loosen a jar from the nose of a bear
Help me if you can
I've got to get back
To the House at Pooh Corner by one
You'd be surprised
There's so much to be done
Count all the bees in the hive
Chase all the clouds from the sky
Back to the days of Christopher Robin and Pooh
It's hard to explain how a few precious things
Seem to follow throughout all our lives
After all's said and done I was watching my son
Sleeping there with my bear by his side
So I tucked him in, I kissed him and as I was going
I swear that the old bear whispered "Boy welcome home"
Believe me if you can
I've finally come back
To the House at Pooh Corner by one
What do you know
There's so much to be done
Count all the bees in the hive
Chase all the clouds from the sky
Back to the days of Christopher Robin
Back to the ways of Christopher Robin
Back to the days of Pooh
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Saturday Night
Well, the plants are doing alright. Everyone is inside, and the beans have taken a new post by our front window. I'm a little bit concerned about getting them on a different growing cycle due to the lighting change out front, but its only until the weather warms up a bit, so I think it'll be alright.
We'll see.
Not much else to report at this point, and I'm a little preoccupied tonight, so this is a short post.
Have a good night, cyberspace.
We'll see.
Not much else to report at this point, and I'm a little preoccupied tonight, so this is a short post.
Have a good night, cyberspace.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Chicken Little
Quick! Run for cover! The sky is falling!
Or, at the very least its turning gray. It seems our cold front has finally made it to town, and oddly enough, I'm somewhat happy about it. Although it means the plants won't be able to hang outside quite as much over the next few days, after the catnap I took in the sun this afternoon, cool air is a rather refreshing change of pace. Not that I'm wishing for this all summer. God, no! But I am relieved at the moment.
I'm starting to notice a lovely fresh plantlike smell all throughout the kitchen. Nearly all of our viable window space is coveted in at least one way or another by something green and growing, and I have to say, I'm loving it. Andrew and I took a stroll through a few gardening centers today. Bless his black soul, he put up with all of my sniffing and giggling and rubbing my face in little herbs (mainly the lavender, catnip, and cilantro). I think he was a little mortified after a while, as he stole my sunglasses and wouldn't return them until we were safely in the car. He said it was because I was hiding behind them, but I know the truth. :)
Man, if I had $5,000, a plot of land, and no bills, I swear I could spend it all on plants. Maybe I should be feeling a bit obsessive, but I think Andrew put it best...its something that puts a real, true, genuine smile on my face. Yes, redundant, but necessary to describe the feeling I get walking through a greenhouse. Its like peace sneaks up on me and steals my worries, leaving them behind by the tomatoes while I dabble with the snapdragons and point cheerfully at the succulents. More than likely its backlash from living away from the country for so long. I miss wide open land with apple orchards and rose bushes aplenty. I wish I could have a greenhouse.
These have been interesting days. Tavi pops in and out of the week like a squirrel. He's constantly on the go, and I can't help but wonder what will happen when he finally has the opportunity to stop for a bit. I'm also wondering quite a bit about where we'll end up. But its to be seen, and since I don't have a solid plan yet, I suppose its all just idle contemplation anyway. Its good though, because that kind of thing breeds yearning and clarity, and leads the way to goals sought out and accomplished. Which, I certainly could use more of.
Cheers for now...I'm off to play around at making a new chicken breast recipe. Thanks again, Spice House for all of the lessons in seasoning!
Or, at the very least its turning gray. It seems our cold front has finally made it to town, and oddly enough, I'm somewhat happy about it. Although it means the plants won't be able to hang outside quite as much over the next few days, after the catnap I took in the sun this afternoon, cool air is a rather refreshing change of pace. Not that I'm wishing for this all summer. God, no! But I am relieved at the moment.
I'm starting to notice a lovely fresh plantlike smell all throughout the kitchen. Nearly all of our viable window space is coveted in at least one way or another by something green and growing, and I have to say, I'm loving it. Andrew and I took a stroll through a few gardening centers today. Bless his black soul, he put up with all of my sniffing and giggling and rubbing my face in little herbs (mainly the lavender, catnip, and cilantro). I think he was a little mortified after a while, as he stole my sunglasses and wouldn't return them until we were safely in the car. He said it was because I was hiding behind them, but I know the truth. :)
Man, if I had $5,000, a plot of land, and no bills, I swear I could spend it all on plants. Maybe I should be feeling a bit obsessive, but I think Andrew put it best...its something that puts a real, true, genuine smile on my face. Yes, redundant, but necessary to describe the feeling I get walking through a greenhouse. Its like peace sneaks up on me and steals my worries, leaving them behind by the tomatoes while I dabble with the snapdragons and point cheerfully at the succulents. More than likely its backlash from living away from the country for so long. I miss wide open land with apple orchards and rose bushes aplenty. I wish I could have a greenhouse.
These have been interesting days. Tavi pops in and out of the week like a squirrel. He's constantly on the go, and I can't help but wonder what will happen when he finally has the opportunity to stop for a bit. I'm also wondering quite a bit about where we'll end up. But its to be seen, and since I don't have a solid plan yet, I suppose its all just idle contemplation anyway. Its good though, because that kind of thing breeds yearning and clarity, and leads the way to goals sought out and accomplished. Which, I certainly could use more of.
Cheers for now...I'm off to play around at making a new chicken breast recipe. Thanks again, Spice House for all of the lessons in seasoning!
Origami
Tavi kills trees.
He says its in the name of origami. He wants me to make him more origami creations.
I think he just hates trees.
He says its in the name of origami. He wants me to make him more origami creations.
I think he just hates trees.
Spiders!
I just found three small dead spiders in the past few hours, all scattered in different areas of the house, and all suspended with their feet touching. Is this an odd omen? I don't know, but it's got me just a tad weirded out.
Anywho, I spent more time with the garden today (no real surprise there!), and may have killed a little broccoli plant. :( I did almost all of the remaining transplanting, so now mom's beans, the broccoli, and some of the basil plants have found new, more spacious homes. I planned poorly though, so I have to run out tomorrow and pick up more potting mix in order to transplant the remaining basil.
The peas are still growing fantastically. It's continued to be windy here, so they have become quite hardy and thick skinned to my delight. Still no sign of the new batch of chives...I've left them outside, and in all honesty, am glad they have not sprouted yet, as we are expecting a frost this weekend, and I'd rather them stay below ground for the event.
(peas, as of about a week ago)
I had to go out and get poles for the beans, as they have had a bit of a hard time bouncing back from their first windy day out on the porch. They needed a more delicate form of support, which I think I've finally found. Below is a picture of their original trellis set up, which has been traded in for bamboo poles (pics of these soon to come).
(beans with old trellis set up)
Today I also had the pleasure of re-potting an aloe plant for Tavi's mom's Mother's Day gift. It seems to be adjusting well, and I'm excited to give it to her. :)
In the realm of indoor plants, my aloe is doing wonderfully, as are my orchids. The Christmas Cactus is still slow going...I don't know how my mom's has gotten to be the size of a rabid spider plant, but it has, and I'm jealous. But, I have an actual rabid spider plant...or at least Andrew and I do, so I guess its ok.
Tav's graduation is coming up and we're preparing to open our house to his dad for a few days. I'm really excited for Tav. I'm also reallllllly hoping he makes his portfolio SOON :)
Then, there's the party.
Then, in the beginning of June, I turn 25.
SO, the next month or so will be pretty busy.
THEN, we head off to the Seattle area for family vacation!!
Lots to look forward to...but for now, a late night snack and then bed.
ciao
Anywho, I spent more time with the garden today (no real surprise there!), and may have killed a little broccoli plant. :( I did almost all of the remaining transplanting, so now mom's beans, the broccoli, and some of the basil plants have found new, more spacious homes. I planned poorly though, so I have to run out tomorrow and pick up more potting mix in order to transplant the remaining basil.
The peas are still growing fantastically. It's continued to be windy here, so they have become quite hardy and thick skinned to my delight. Still no sign of the new batch of chives...I've left them outside, and in all honesty, am glad they have not sprouted yet, as we are expecting a frost this weekend, and I'd rather them stay below ground for the event.
(peas, as of about a week ago)
I had to go out and get poles for the beans, as they have had a bit of a hard time bouncing back from their first windy day out on the porch. They needed a more delicate form of support, which I think I've finally found. Below is a picture of their original trellis set up, which has been traded in for bamboo poles (pics of these soon to come).
(beans with old trellis set up)
Today I also had the pleasure of re-potting an aloe plant for Tavi's mom's Mother's Day gift. It seems to be adjusting well, and I'm excited to give it to her. :)
In the realm of indoor plants, my aloe is doing wonderfully, as are my orchids. The Christmas Cactus is still slow going...I don't know how my mom's has gotten to be the size of a rabid spider plant, but it has, and I'm jealous. But, I have an actual rabid spider plant...or at least Andrew and I do, so I guess its ok.
Tav's graduation is coming up and we're preparing to open our house to his dad for a few days. I'm really excited for Tav. I'm also reallllllly hoping he makes his portfolio SOON :)
Then, there's the party.
Then, in the beginning of June, I turn 25.
SO, the next month or so will be pretty busy.
THEN, we head off to the Seattle area for family vacation!!
Lots to look forward to...but for now, a late night snack and then bed.
ciao
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Quickie
Thanks for the love about the plants, all :) I appreciate it. And yes, the beans are pulling through. The romaine is still having a tough time, but I think at least most of the young sprouts will make it.
Off to enjoy the sunshine!
Well check in soon!
-ciao
Off to enjoy the sunshine!
Well check in soon!
-ciao
Thursday, April 29, 2010
High Winds and High Stress
Ah, transplanting. The last 36 hours or so have been a bit of a roller coaster for the plants and I. The beans transplanted successfully, with the exception of three, which are being kept in safe keeping for mi madre. I tried to transplant the chives, which was apparently a terribly bad plan, as their little roots were not up to the transition. So I had to replant the chives...this time we're trying to for outdoors all the way. I'm fairly confident that they'll make it, as now it is a bit warmer at nights. I trimmed back the romaine and most of the sprouts are doing well, but a few are showing signs of fatigue. Ok, that's putting it lightly. They are laying down and straight out napping. So I'm crossing my fingers for them and giving them just a little extra warmth and light tonight. Their counterparts, the basil and broccoli are doing splendidly, which is a relief.
I feel very much like I should be worried about some plant abuse authorities coming to pick me up, as today, which was the beans first full day outdoors, was WINDY. Yes, winds in excess of 40 to 50 miles an hour at times beat up my poor little newly planted beans. And they are worse for the wear. Some damaged leaves and a few bent stalks. It was pretty bad to come home to. So, their trellis set up has been abandoned for something less invasive. We'll see how they do.
Sigh. I hope my babies pull through.
I feel very much like I should be worried about some plant abuse authorities coming to pick me up, as today, which was the beans first full day outdoors, was WINDY. Yes, winds in excess of 40 to 50 miles an hour at times beat up my poor little newly planted beans. And they are worse for the wear. Some damaged leaves and a few bent stalks. It was pretty bad to come home to. So, their trellis set up has been abandoned for something less invasive. We'll see how they do.
Sigh. I hope my babies pull through.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Time WArP
So, it isn't Tuesday, and I have failed you all. But, since there are little to none of you actually "following" me at this point
(yes. I am the only follower I have listed.
I didn't want to discuss it, but now that its been said and aired and laid out for everyone to see all over the internet I guess I can't avoid it any longer and we'll just have to grin and bear it and face the facts.
My blog is lame and unloved.
Except I love it...
kind of...
so I suppose that's the important part, being as I have to be the one on here every day.
Oh, but I'm not, you say?
Well, yes, technically speaking I suppose I wasn't on yesterday...
but I DID have the best intentions...it just well...life got in the way. Tavi brought home beer and he and Andrew and I ate potato chips and watched The Imaginarium of Dr. Parnasus, which, by the by, is quite compelling.
In any case, I'm here now, nearly before doing anything else with my day [with the exception of eating and other such necessities], so I'm counting this post as Tuesday, and there is very little all of you non-followers can do about it!)
...it's ok.
(these are for you, Andrew)
Moving on. Today is the day of transplants! Woohoo! (or tomorrow, assuming this is Tuesday, but really, today, since its not) The beans are growing like they are being chased by large and in charge ogres, out for their little leaves. I'm so proud! AND, they are working together...I currently don't have a trellis or support system for them in their little jiffy pots, so they are holding each other up by wrapping their vines about. I'm pretty impressed by this actually, as to be honest I thought they may attempt to choke out each other's light. But no, symbiosis was the chosen route. Clearly this says something about human vs. plant attitudes, but I'll leave all of those implications to a preachier sort of day. Right now I'm just happy to report that all is going well and I'm excited for the big transition.
Meanwhile, Tav is nearly finished with school and although its been pretty batty making, I'm super proud of him as well. Just over two weeks left and he will join me in the ranks of the gradgebatated. Yes, it is good to have an edgebacation! Cheers to Tavi!
It's been a pretty strange road this past year or so, and as I'm just about to mark a year's employment at the lovely Geneva Spice House, I'm pretty contemplative about the whole ordeal. Not at all where I expected to be, but I'm incredibly grateful. And as to the future, well that's a bit hard to predict, but I'm hoping I'll figure it out when the time comes (and not a few weeks after). Or at least enough so that I can get myself where and how I need to be.
Here are a few more pics while I'm at it...
(Andrew's little Venus Fly Trap)
(the rose bush Tavi gave me...which has rather curiously turned orange instead of red)
Well, I think that's all for now. I'll let you know how transplantathon goes.
Ciao
(yes. I am the only follower I have listed.
I didn't want to discuss it, but now that its been said and aired and laid out for everyone to see all over the internet I guess I can't avoid it any longer and we'll just have to grin and bear it and face the facts.
My blog is lame and unloved.
Except I love it...
kind of...
so I suppose that's the important part, being as I have to be the one on here every day.
Oh, but I'm not, you say?
Well, yes, technically speaking I suppose I wasn't on yesterday...
but I DID have the best intentions...it just well...life got in the way. Tavi brought home beer and he and Andrew and I ate potato chips and watched The Imaginarium of Dr. Parnasus, which, by the by, is quite compelling.
In any case, I'm here now, nearly before doing anything else with my day [with the exception of eating and other such necessities], so I'm counting this post as Tuesday, and there is very little all of you non-followers can do about it!)
...it's ok.
(these are for you, Andrew)
Moving on. Today is the day of transplants! Woohoo! (or tomorrow, assuming this is Tuesday, but really, today, since its not) The beans are growing like they are being chased by large and in charge ogres, out for their little leaves. I'm so proud! AND, they are working together...I currently don't have a trellis or support system for them in their little jiffy pots, so they are holding each other up by wrapping their vines about. I'm pretty impressed by this actually, as to be honest I thought they may attempt to choke out each other's light. But no, symbiosis was the chosen route. Clearly this says something about human vs. plant attitudes, but I'll leave all of those implications to a preachier sort of day. Right now I'm just happy to report that all is going well and I'm excited for the big transition.
Meanwhile, Tav is nearly finished with school and although its been pretty batty making, I'm super proud of him as well. Just over two weeks left and he will join me in the ranks of the gradgebatated. Yes, it is good to have an edgebacation! Cheers to Tavi!
It's been a pretty strange road this past year or so, and as I'm just about to mark a year's employment at the lovely Geneva Spice House, I'm pretty contemplative about the whole ordeal. Not at all where I expected to be, but I'm incredibly grateful. And as to the future, well that's a bit hard to predict, but I'm hoping I'll figure it out when the time comes (and not a few weeks after). Or at least enough so that I can get myself where and how I need to be.
Here are a few more pics while I'm at it...
(Andrew's little Venus Fly Trap)
(the rose bush Tavi gave me...which has rather curiously turned orange instead of red)
Well, I think that's all for now. I'll let you know how transplantathon goes.
Ciao
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
p.s.
the plants are doing well. romaine is going to have a tough night because she was trimmed, but I have faith.
now that is all.
good. night.
now that is all.
good. night.
The Seasonal Curse
Oh, dear lord, my head is a muffin. An uncomfortable muffin filled with nothing delicious, floating far far above the rest of my body.
Allergies have done me in and I am going to bed.
Glad we could chat.
Allergies have done me in and I am going to bed.
Glad we could chat.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
After the Cut...
Last night trimmings seem to have been successful! Everyone is doing fine, and perhaps even stronger, as was the plan. So in that respect, I'm pretty satisfied. In others perhaps not.
To those of you who know me will know that this blog is undoubtedly also doubling up as a vehicle through which to drive my writing. I don't mean a place to plug myself or any such bs. No, I mean its a place to write. Regularly. Constantly. (yes, Tavi, daily) Because apparently, to make it as a writer it is essential to write. And I have what is known as a constant case of the blockpox. Ok, maybe nobody knows what I have as the blockpox, but that's kind of how I think of it. I have writers block in the way that I had chicken pox as a young child.
Backstory:
When I was just a wee little girl, I had chicken pox a whopping THREE times. Once was a small outbreak (and, dear parents, please correct me if I have these occurrences out of order, and forgive me, because my recall much before the age of 10 is fuzzy at best), followed by a rather large outbreak just after my birthday. I was miserable! Oatmeal baths are the most disgustingly comfortable practice that I have yet to experience. I felt like a little raisin, posed to be scooped out by some giant spoon and eaten by the god of discomfort and childhood trauma. Granted, that's because I was young, and everything is excruciatingly dramatic when you're young and have the type of imagination that I do. Luckily for me, I healed, and it was a full year before I caught chicken pox again. The last time I believe I was also blessed in that I slept nearly through the ordeal.
Long and short:
I get writers block in bursts. I will be happily typing along, loving the feel and flow of a story and then BAM. Nothing. nada.
And I put it down.
And there it sits.
WAITING.
Probably forlorn and a little put out by the fact that I've abandoned it to come to fruition of its own accord. Which, of course, it doesn't.
SO, I am attempting to keep this constant flow of words streaming from my fingers, hoping that maybe then writing will become constant. And despite the form, I will have compositions to call my own.
To those of you who know me will know that this blog is undoubtedly also doubling up as a vehicle through which to drive my writing. I don't mean a place to plug myself or any such bs. No, I mean its a place to write. Regularly. Constantly. (yes, Tavi, daily) Because apparently, to make it as a writer it is essential to write. And I have what is known as a constant case of the blockpox. Ok, maybe nobody knows what I have as the blockpox, but that's kind of how I think of it. I have writers block in the way that I had chicken pox as a young child.
Backstory:
When I was just a wee little girl, I had chicken pox a whopping THREE times. Once was a small outbreak (and, dear parents, please correct me if I have these occurrences out of order, and forgive me, because my recall much before the age of 10 is fuzzy at best), followed by a rather large outbreak just after my birthday. I was miserable! Oatmeal baths are the most disgustingly comfortable practice that I have yet to experience. I felt like a little raisin, posed to be scooped out by some giant spoon and eaten by the god of discomfort and childhood trauma. Granted, that's because I was young, and everything is excruciatingly dramatic when you're young and have the type of imagination that I do. Luckily for me, I healed, and it was a full year before I caught chicken pox again. The last time I believe I was also blessed in that I slept nearly through the ordeal.
Long and short:
I get writers block in bursts. I will be happily typing along, loving the feel and flow of a story and then BAM. Nothing. nada.
And I put it down.
And there it sits.
WAITING.
Probably forlorn and a little put out by the fact that I've abandoned it to come to fruition of its own accord. Which, of course, it doesn't.
SO, I am attempting to keep this constant flow of words streaming from my fingers, hoping that maybe then writing will become constant. And despite the form, I will have compositions to call my own.
Friday, April 23, 2010
Time to die?
Unfortunately, in every gardener's experience comes the sad moment in which it is imperative to pass judgment on your lovingly nurtured seeds. That moment is upon me, and yes, sentimental as it may seem, I am a little bit sad. Tonight I have the task of thinning out my baby broccoli plants, as, they are growing too well and if left to their own devices, would crowd out each others little root systems. Its rough to choose favorites at this point, but in order to ensure the overall health of a few of my heartiest plants, its time to make the cut (no pun intended...ok, maybe a little bit intended). So, wish me luck.
Also, last night I finished my blanket for Project Linus. Project Linus is a fantastic non-profit group that collects blankets for ill and traumatized children, and they will be at the shop tomorrow (Geneva Spice House) with treats from their cookbook, so if you are in the area, by all means, stop in. Customers with blanket or yarn donations will receive 15% off of in store purchases.
There's my little plug for the night. Anywho, the blanket is sweet. Its small and blue with fringes and a baseball theme. I have another small piece of fleece to be dedicated to a blanket, but time was my enemy in the past 48 hours, so it didn't make the cut either. Phew. Between plants and blankets, writing (blog and short stories), and a rather large oil painting, I think I've been a rather busy bee. No wonder the combination of little sleep and Benadryl (yay, allergies!) has my energy running low. Hopefully tonight will be good sleeps.
Cheerio for now!
Also, last night I finished my blanket for Project Linus. Project Linus is a fantastic non-profit group that collects blankets for ill and traumatized children, and they will be at the shop tomorrow (Geneva Spice House) with treats from their cookbook, so if you are in the area, by all means, stop in. Customers with blanket or yarn donations will receive 15% off of in store purchases.
There's my little plug for the night. Anywho, the blanket is sweet. Its small and blue with fringes and a baseball theme. I have another small piece of fleece to be dedicated to a blanket, but time was my enemy in the past 48 hours, so it didn't make the cut either. Phew. Between plants and blankets, writing (blog and short stories), and a rather large oil painting, I think I've been a rather busy bee. No wonder the combination of little sleep and Benadryl (yay, allergies!) has my energy running low. Hopefully tonight will be good sleeps.
Cheerio for now!
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Growth!
Growth seems to be happening left and right here in the St. Charles/Geneva, IL area. Consequently, I've found myself on many occasions of late reminiscing of life in Wisconsin (where I grew up and spent much of my high school and middle school careers), only because it seems that the seasonal changes here are about two months in advance. Now, I've been living here in Illinois, about 4-5 hours south of my previous home in Wisconsin, for just about six years, and in all of that time I have yet to notice such a drastic difference in the seasonal changes. I'm sure you'd guess that I'm gonna imply global warming or some other such culprit at this point, but in all honesty, I know what the reason is. I simply spent far too much time living in more urbanized areas than my current stomping grounds. Schaumburg is primarily a land of copious cement structures, at least in the midst of the city, and although I spent a lot of time out in the local parks, again, the seasons didn't seem that different. Elgin was somewhat the same story. So, somewhere in the combination of my own busy schedules and living on the go in cityscapes, the climate difference really quite escaped me. Here I am, mid-April, and I am absolutely floored by this area's already lush spring growth.
Here's to lilacs outside!
Here's to lilacs outside!
My own garden is doing quite well also.
(romaine)
(beans)
(and guess who finally popped up!? Chives!)
(romaine)
(beans)
(and guess who finally popped up!? Chives!)
Lattuga?
Lattuga the Great (romaine)
17. April 2010 by admin.
Your new lord and master will now be Lattuga.
Andrew wanted you to know.
So, the really funny part of all this is that I meant to attach this blog to my website, but somehow in the process overwrote my entire website. Brilliant, you say? Well, maybe. But after some tweaking there will hopefully be a resolution. So look for that. In the mean time…
My plants are growing like gangbusters! They are mutants! Even the BEANS are coming up! Only the chives have been left behind. They are lagging. I still have confidence. You should too.
(broccoli-soon to look like a cartoon fart-see link below)
Dear Carbs,
I thought about you last night. I couldn’t even sleep!
If you haven’t seen the liamshow yet, check it out on youtube. Its glorious.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-kGvtne2zfo
who wants to eat a parsnip? Nobody!!!
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