Peanut's Page

Pssst!!

2011-11-17T11:31:00.000-08:00

It was time for a fresh start. Something new.

I've moved!

Will you come and visit me?

http://www.dandelionsonthewall.com

Look for tons of gluten, dairy, and soy-free recipes, craft projects, and... life!

So... what DO you eat?

2011-02-22T14:10:00.001-08:00

Do you remember that I've gone through some pretty major diet changes lately? I think I first talked about it in October.

I cannot believe what a difference these changes have made to my overall health. What I also cannot believe is how often I am asked about going free. Free of... anything! Dairy, gluten... maybe two or three things. Seems there are SO many people out there battling food issues, and figuring out where to begin can be a very daunting task.

While I LOVE to have one-on-one conversations with everyone who asks, I also think a 'starting point' might be helpful. So my plan is to create a short series of posts filled with useful, but easily understood, information.

To start? The most common topic... what I eat.

These things are all free of gluten, dairy and soy. Many of them are also vegan.

Most important? Fruit! Veggies!! It hasn't been easy, because I've got a terrible sweet tooth, but I try to always reach for some sort of fruit or a vegetable when I'm looking for a snack. Do I even need to explain why??

I also eat a ton of rice, and we go through potatoes like crazy. I realize it may not be *the* healthiest thing out there, but almost every morning I make home-cooked breakfast potatoes and scrambled eggs. They're filling, yummy, and they make the little guy happier than his favorite cartoon on repeat play.

Easy-to-find stuff... Rice Chex, tortilla chips (check the label! vegetable oil is made from soy!) with salsa, pico de gallo or hummus (check the label if not homemade!), air-pop popcorn.

More specific items...

Breads, pastas, etc:

Udi's Brand sandwich read, bagels, pizza crusts, muffins and granola. I LOVE all of these products, and you don't have to look far to find them in our kitchen. Their granola is more like 'regular' granola than any other I've found.

Ancient Harvest Quinoa pastas. Their polenta is great too, though I've found that I prefer to make homemade polenta these days.

Enjoy Life cookies, snack bars (love these! I have them stashed in my purse, car, etc.. My favorite is the sunbutter crunch variety.) and chocolate chips. Their chocolate bars are a yummy treat too!

Milk, 'cheese,' and other 'dairy' items:

So Delicious! coconut milk yogurt. This is a great snack... I like to mix in Udi's granola. (Side note, not all So Delicious! products are soy free, so it's important to read their labels...)

Daiya Cheddar and Mozzerella Style Shreds. The first time I tried this product, I had been 'dairy free' for all of 48 hours. I was horrified at the taste. I tried them again recently, and hey! my tastes have changed! (Side note about this... at the bottom of my post.)

Almond Breeze milk. Original is my favorite, but Vanilla is also a yummy treat.

Coconut Bliss 'ice cream.' Yum, yum, yummmm! My favorite is Cappucino. (Side note here, the package recommends letting your ice cream sit out for about ten minutes before digging in. Do it. It changes the flavor somehow, and makes it that much tastier.)

Sauces, baking items, etc.

Worth noting... I make my own spaghetti sauce and sloppy joe 'sauce,' because the jarred and canned varieties typically contain soy as a stabilizer. The book, "Cooking for Isaiah" features a great, simple sloppy joe recipe as well as a TON of other yummy stuff.

Also worth noting... worcestershire sauce is a great thing to have on hand, but read the label first. Many varieties contain soy. Lea & Perrins does no.

Coconut Aminos, made by Coconut Secret. This is my 'soy' sauce. It tastes different... almost a combination between soy and teriyaki sauce. But it's great in stiry-fry, and I love it on a bowl of rice.

Spectrum Organic Shortening is helpful to have on hand for baking.

Natural Jif Peanut Butter is safe, but I've also had fun trying things like Sunbutter and almond butter.

Earth Balance spread. Love, love, love this stuff! It's similar in taste to margarine which was a bit of a change for me. I was a BUTTER girl. But I'm happy to have this product available to me. Look for the red soy-free carton if need be!

Now... that side-note I mentioned. When I started on this adventure, my main goal after feeling better was to find an exact replacement for each food I felt I was 'giving up.' I now know that not only is that not possible, it's not practical either. In order to be happy and content with what is out there, I've found that it is best not to seek a replacement. Instead, try to keep an open mind... just like you would if you were trying a new cut of meat, or a new flavor of ice-cream. I don't expect my package of Daiya Cheddar Shreds to taste like freshly grated Tillamook. But they do make a yummy toasted sandwich!

Whew! Are you tired of reading yet? Because I feel a bit overwhelmed and these are things I routinely shop for. I've undoubtedly left items out, so if you're looking for something specific or have any questions please leave a comment and ask me. Or--do you have a product you want to suggest? I'd love to hear your ideas :)

30 Things

2011-01-20T11:01:00.000-08:00

This is a copy/paste from my personal Facebook page, and so some of you have probably already seen it. Maybe I'm the only one, but I absolutely love to read about other people... and so I thought maybe you'd like to learn a little bit about me as well. So often my posts are about Camden, I thought it might be fun to change it up a bit!

1. I've lost count of how many times I have navigated away from this tab. Each time I start to type, I erase my thought. Nothing I have to say feels anywhere near interesting enough for a list.
2. I often talk to myself. Probably too often, in fact.
3.The 'p' word that refers to women's underwear? I refuse to say (or type!) it. It grosses me out. Big time.
4. I have an insane fear of throwing up and being sick in general. Camden catching a bug or hearing that a friend is sick sends me into panic mode for days on end.
5. I sanitize my hands frequently. Camden's too.
6. This shouldn't come as any surprise, but I love photography. When I look at every day objects, I often picture what they might look like in a photo rather than what they look like just sitting in front of me. Same thing goes for people.
7. I dream in black and white. No color. Ever.
8. Everyone told me I'd forget pregnancy, labor and delivery as soon as my little boy was in my arms. He's creeping up on two and a half, and I still remember every last detail. This does NOTHING for my desire to have another child.
9. I love old stuff. Probably more than is healthy.
10. Eating in a restaurant terrifies me. Partially because of the throwing up thing, partially because of the weird stuff I can no longer eat.
11. I clean when I'm angry.
12. Spokane gives me the creeps. I lock my doors when I'm in the car, and I look over my shoulder often. I don't know if I'll ever feel "at home" here.
13. I eat chocolate every day.
14. I get horribly car sick unless I'm behind the wheel, but Ryan almost always drives when we go somewhere together.
15. At one point, I was wearing 12? 13? different piercings, the first two of which were put in my ears when I was four. The only thing you'll see now is a tiny little ring in an uncommon spot on my ear.
16. I own more than 20 pair of jeans. One pair fits, and the rest are too big.
17. I'm a homebody. It isn't uncommon to hear that I've gone all week without leaving our apartment complex.
18. I find it nearly impossible to leave Target without having made some sort of impulse purchase.
19. I could do this SAHM/wife/homemaker thing for a lot of years to come. A 9-5 job scares me to death, actually.
20. I love to organize and clean, but I'm hopelessly messy. Especially when it comes to my car.
21. My mind never stops wandering. I sometimes lay in bed at night for hours imaging how I might overhaul a room in our house, what I might do differently as I 'start over' with photography here in Spokane, or what our back yard would look like... if we had one.
22. I can be a bit obsessive with the wandering mind thing. Give me an idea, and I'll run with it for DAYS.
23. I can't really swim. And I detest putting my face under water.
24. My least favorite chore is putting away clean laundry. Sometimes it sits on the couch for a week until Ryan finally bails me out and puts it away.
25. We eat a home-cooked breakfast every morning. More often than not, 'fried' potatoes and scrambled eggs.
26. Fear of failing often keeps me from trying new things.
27. I can almost always find something to be nervous or worried about. Not my favorite character trait.
28. I want to learn to knit and crochet.
29. I find cooked broccoli to be incredibly disgusting.
30. This was hard to do! Coming up with 30 things (ok, 29 because this one doesn't count) pertaining to ME more than Camden or Ryan? Not so easy...

If you'd like to list your own 30 Things, please do! Leave a comment and include a link to your post so I can come and read about YOU, too.

{this moment}

2011-01-14T13:16:00.000-08:00

Inspired, as always, by Amanda. I'd love to see your special moment too. Leave a link so that I can visit!

This is a big one!

2011-01-12T13:50:00.000-08:00

Oh, hello!

Were you looking for me?

Somewhere between Christmas, the beginning of a new year, trying to find--and purchase--a home, and occupying a busy toddler, I've been a bit distant.

Wait--WHAT?

Buying a home?

Yup.

*gulp*

We're on the hunt for a house. OUR house. Where we'll be able to paint! and have a garden! and gut the kitchen for a new one if we want to! and pay a MORTGAGE!

Oh.

That last one isn't so exciting, is it??

But it is exciting. A mortgage payment, for me, will feel far more rewarding than a monthly rent payment. There is no return when you're paying rent. There IS a return when you buy at the bottom of the market, make timely payments, improve your home while you're there... and then one day sell in favor of something different, or a move, or... whatever.

This is a new process for us, but we're finding our way. And I cannot wait for the end--where we'll sign (and sign... and sign...) all those papers and then receive the keys to OUR home.

Are you looking forward to anything BIG in the new year??

We wish you a...

2010-12-23T10:37:00.000-08:00

...and a Happy New Year!

The next few days will be busy and filled with adventure for our family. Where are your plans taking you? How will you celebrate?

I can't wait to come back here post-Christmas to share what I've been up to.

...and if you're here visiting from Rhythm of the Home, welcome! I hope you'll make yourself comfortable and stay a while. I'd sure love it if you did.

{this moment}

2010-12-17T09:21:00.000-08:00

A SouleMama inspired Friday ritual. Feel free to leave your link in the comments section so that I can come and take a peek!

Gnomes

2010-12-13T14:27:00.000-08:00

I'm quite certain that my current favorite to-do list project is gnome-making.

On a whim, and with inspiration from Salt & Chocolate, I started making these little cuties the other day. Camden loves them, and lights up with each new friend he receives.

The tiny family of three is growing, so I'm sure you'll see them again soon.

{this moment}

2010-12-10T07:49:00.000-08:00

Inspired by Soule Mama's Friday ritual :)

Slowly...

2010-12-04T15:20:00.000-08:00

We're making progress. Bits and pieces of our new life are coming together one at a time. This morning, our bedroom finally felt... real. I walked in simply to put something away, but had to stop instead to take a couple of pictures.

It's a space we all share. Camden spends some nights in his bed, tucked in along side our own... and some nights--like last--nestled in between his mama and daddy. We wouldn't have it any other way.

The evidence of a shared bed was there this morning... his little friend, Parker, and his blankie having been left behind.

Best of all, though, if you're a toddler seeking entertainment or a moment alone are those books! Oh--the books. When the house is too quiet, I almost always know where to find my little guy.

{this moment}

2010-11-19T15:04:00.000-08:00

Inspired by SouleMama.

Sweet Slumber

2010-11-18T08:09:00.000-08:00

I started this post earlier this morning. I wrote, thoughtfully, about Camden and the fact that he's been co-sleeping for nearly two years now. Two years--where has the time gone??

But I deleted what I had written. Because really? I felt as though my words were turning out to sound more like an argument for co-sleeping. And that wasn't the plan.

No--the plan was to share these phots from the other day. I took them with the intention of having several of them printed onto canvas. They'll hang above our bed when they arrive.

Inspired by another photographer, I set this 'scene' in our bedroom before putting Camden to sleep at nap time the other day. I love the simple white and cream combination, and I love that I was able to capture such a busy, active little boy in his most peaceful state.

I'll save the co-sleeping arguments for another day, and just cherish the little boy I wake up smiling at every morning.

Play!

2010-11-11T11:21:00.000-08:00

I've got a little play corner set up for Camden in the living room. It has been rearranged a couple of times as I watch how he uses the space... and I think we've settled on our final arrangement. That means it was safe to hang something on the wall!

Nothing in my stash seemed right for the spot above his table, so I decided I'd let him do the decorating. I think the photos say it all, so take a look:

He's pretty darned proud of himself for this one. I put it on the wall after he went to bed last night, and he was sure to point it out to me this morning.

Progress

2010-11-09T09:42:00.001-08:00

As long as we've been together, Ryan and I have moved from one spot to another... an apartment, duplex... a year in a house... and I always wind up with spaces that are never quite finished. Maybe that's because we move so often, but I also blame a lack of funds, and heck--a busy, baby-raising life!

I'm really feeling motivated this time, for whatever reason, and I'm trying to make the most of that motivation. My goal is to have our entire apartment photo-ready before Christmas. It's coming along, our little space, and I'm so excited with the results.

Crafting and decorating on a budget are important to me, because I know I'm capable and it seems silly to spend so much when I can do it myself. And who am I kidding? It's also important because we're ON A BUDGET! (Who isn't??)

Anyway, my focus right now is on the common area that includes our dining room, living room and kitchen.

...have you wondered why I'm telling you all of this? Are you scrolling to the bottom of the post yet, hoping I'll just.spit.it.OUT! already!?

Here it is:

A peek at my current favorite DIY! I'm really happy with the results, but the project isn't finished yet either. More soon!

Finding new uses...

2010-11-08T09:18:00.000-08:00

...for old things! Maybe that sounds cliche by now, but that's ok. Because really, that's exactly what I did when this idea came to mind.

Camden really loves to color. He won't let me *call* it coloring anymore, because he's apparently too big to color. Nope--this little guy draws. But whatever.

Enter the big, left-over package of wrapping paper from our move. I bought a second box of paper when the first one had been used up, but didn't wind up using the entire second box.

When I happened upon Camden's crayons the other day, but wasn't able to find his drawing pad, I remembed the box of wrapping paper I'd stashed into the U-Haul just in case.

Whaddya know?! It's perfect for coloring! I mean... drawing.

I taped the edges to the table because it's a bit on the thin side and I knew he'd wind up frustrated if it were to move around too much. He loved it! When dinner time rolled around, and the paper was still on the table, I served his meal right on top. AND! I was pretty darned proud of myself when I rounded the corner after dinner and spotted Ryan folding the paper--and the dinner mess--into a little bundle to toss into the trash.

Even if you were to stop by your local U-Haul spot just for a big package of paper, at $10 for 140 BIG sheets, you can't go wrong.

{this moment}

2010-11-05T08:06:00.000-07:00

Inspired by Soule Mama, a single photo, capturing a moment from our week. Hop over to her site to participate!

Rice... for breakfast?

2010-11-04T08:38:00.000-07:00

Certainly! A girl has to get creative, y'know!

So this morning, I pulled the leftover dinner rice from the fridge and put this together:

I warmed a couple of cups of (brown, pre-cooked) rice on the stove in some almond milk.

Next, I mixed in nearly a whole diced apple, a few good shakes of cinnamon (I love cinnamon! use a lighter hand if you don't love it as much as me.), a sprinkle of salt, and some agave nectar to taste.

I love hot breakfast cereals, but most of them aren't something I'm able to eat any longer. Yes, there are gluten-free oats available, but I haven't gotten brave enough to try them yet. I understand there are some people who still cannot tolerate them. All this to say, I'm glad I gave my idea a try! It was warm and filling, and I loved the texture. Yum!

Mama's Little Bumble Bee

2010-11-02T18:55:00.000-07:00

I love this photo. It's rare that I am spotted in a photo, and they often don't happen unless I shove my camera into Ryan's (capable) hands and say, "here! take a picture!"

He probably does an internal eye roll every time, but that doesn't stop me.

This one was taken by yours truly. Lurking around, trying to catch my little bumble bee in action. Such a perfect costume for a little boy who never, ever sits still.

I sure do love him, busy (buzzy?! yes--pun intended) boy that he is!

GF/DF Pumpkin Spice Pancakes with Apple Compote

2010-11-01T13:49:00.000-07:00

Alright then--if nobody wants to choose a recipe (ehem! is this thing on??), I'll choose. And I choose Pumpkin Spice Pancakes with yummy Apple Compote, because they were fabulous. And I'm still thinking about them.

Here they are, the little beauties!

I've got to be honest and tell you that this was a make-it-up-as-you-go sort of experiment, and no, I didn't precisely measure much of anything. But really, do pancakes require perfect measurement? Not in my kitchen! Feel free to wing it on the compote too!

Pancake Ingredients:

1.5 cups Bob's Red Mill GF Pancake Mix
1 egg
3/4 (plus) cup milk (I used soy, almond would be great too)
1 Tbsp. oil
2 Tbsp. brown sugar
A healthy sprinkle each of cinnamon, allspice and nutmeg
1 cup canned pumpkin (plain--not pie filling)
1 Tbsp. (maybe more?) vanilla

Pancake Directions:

The non-italicized ingredients are taken straight from the BRM Mix package. The other stuff? That was a combination of what I had on-hand, and what I knew, from poking around online, would create a pumpkin-y, fall-ish stack of pancakes. Just like any other pancake recipe, you'll want to combine the dry ingredients, combine the wet ingredients, then blend them together. I have a (plus) after the 3/4 cup milk because I found the consistency to be a bit too thick once I stirred in the pumpkin, so I improvised by adding a bit more soy milk.

Apple Compote Ingredients:

2 apples, peeled and diced
1/4 cup sugar
A healthy sprinkle of cinnamon
1 Tbsp. cornstarch
1 cup water

Apple Compote Directions:

Place the diced apples in a small sauce pan, and add the sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch. Stir over medium as the apples begin to soften. You'll notice a thick, glaze-like coating forming on the sides of the pan and the apples. When the apples are cooked through (doesn't take long!), slowly add the water a few Tbsp. at a time, allowing the sauce to thicken before adding more water. The final consistency is up to you, but you'll want to be able to pour it over the top of your pancakes. I left my sauce to simmer, lightly, on the stove while the pancakes cooked.

These were a hit all around, and I was pretty disappointed when, later in the day, Ryan beat me to the one leftover pancake and small cup of leftover compote. Even Camden gobbled up almost an entire pancake, 'bopples' and all.

Veg-a-WHAT?!

2010-10-31T13:04:00.000-07:00

For quite some time now, I've been battling food issues. I knew things were making me sick, and I've fallen prey to the you-probably-just-have-IBS routine far more times than I care to count. Tests have been run, and trials made... but they all came back free of any big issues. So, over and over, I've been told that I "probably just have IBS."

That's not a very settling answer when you've reached the point that your symptoms leave you feeling scared of food and what it might do to your body. So I recently made the decision to take matters into my own hands. I've completely overhauled my diet, and I'm going on four weeks gluten and dairy free.

Let me tell ya, eliminating gluten and dairy is *not* for the faint of heart. It's been a challenge, and tears have been shed over the whole debacle. More than once. Heck--more than twice! But I'm succeeding, and I feel so much better than I have in ages! Yaheee!!

Ryan panicked a bit when I started tossing around words like soy, xanthum, and--gasp!--VEGAN. But he's had fun trying new recipes with me, and we're discovering how much we both love incoporating more and more veggies into our diets. And let me be clear--I am NOT going vegan, but it is a simple term I can use to help identify things that are safe to eat.

Anyway, my point for sharing this? I guess it somewhat serves as an introduction. I'm excited about this new way of life, and I'm having a great time expirimenting in the (new! and pretty!) kitchen. I've got a few recipes--and photos--that I'd love to share.

What would you like to see first? A dessert, yummy weekend breakfast, or dinner??

The little things...

2010-10-29T08:35:00.000-07:00

While I was cooking dinner the other day, I looked up and realized our entire living room was glowing red. Why? This pretty sunset! I had forgotten how much prettier the sunsets are over here... I see more photos like this one in my future!

First Impressions

2010-10-27T18:01:00.000-07:00

So, we're here. As of last Thursday, Spokane is our new home.

I'm not feeling overly poetic today (and if you're wondering why I chose today to come back here, it's because today is the day we finally had our internet service connected), so all I've got for you is a list. Of first impressions.

1. Spokane is cold. Really, really cold.
2. Drivers here are frightening.
3. Don't get me started on parking.
4. Stores are strangely small and not very busy. It's odd.
5. There are *far* too many road-side signs, billboards, etc.

...and because those are all negative, how about some positives?

6. Ryan seems incredibly happy in his new job.
7. Our apartment ROCKS.
8. The sunsets are fantastic!

So there you go. Spokane at a glance.

It's been a while...

2010-10-18T07:59:00.001-07:00

Wow--it really has been a while, hasn't it??

But here's the thing. I finally feel as though I've got something to talk about again.

For example, I'm experimenting with a gluten-free, dairy-free diet. I'm pretty sure I'm intolerant of both, and quite honestly, I'm tired of feeling sick all the time! I've been at it for nine days now... and it has been, well? intimidating.

...there's also the fact that, in less than a week, we'll be loading up the U-Haul and moving six hours away from 'home.' If that doesn't give me something worth writing about, nothing will!

So if you'll have me, I think I'd like to try my hand at being back in this space again.

Growing...

2010-06-15T15:17:00.000-07:00

...by leaps and bounds.

Yup--my little guy. He's growing again.

I can't believe he's already 18 months old. Can you? Where does the time go?

Physically, he is:

34 inches, and 26 pounds.
A walking, running, jumping, dancing machine.
Fair-skinned, with the most beautiful, sparkling blue eyes.
A good eater.

Intellectually, he is:

Capable of identifying a whole herd of animals, colors, objects, and a few letters.
Learning new words and signs every day.
Learning to be polite by saying please and thank you.

...and he's obsessed with Wi-Wo's.

Also known as, The Wiggles.

One of these days...

2010-06-09T13:19:00.000-07:00

...I hope to be back in this space, writing and sharing. Because I like it here. I really, really do. Right now, there are some things holding me back. What, exactly, is not important enough to warrant mention right now. But I hope you'll all be here when I return.

In the mean-time (that's one of those phrases that looks funny written down, isn't it?), can I ask for your help?

We're cloth diapering full-time these days, and the budget for our diaper stash is pretty limited. As a result, I'm washing every day and trying to get by with what we have. I'm also trying some other methods to fill our need. My most recent attempt? A photo contest!

One of our favorite brands, FuzziBunz, is hosting a Facebook photo contest. The winner will bring home TWELVE (wow!) new, one-size diapers. I cannot imagine adding twelve new diapers to our little stash. Imaging the possibilities! No more daily laundry! I could go two whole days, maybe three!

Anyway. I'm asking for your help. Camden's photo made it into the top ten. Those photos are currently posted on the FuzziBunz Facebook Page, where fans are voting for their favorite by clicking 'like' on the photo they most adore.

Voting is as simple as:

Logging into Facebook.
Visiting the FuzziBunz Fan Page and becoming a fan.
Visiting the photo of Camden and clicking 'like' under his photo.

Yes--you must be a fan of FuzziBunz in order to vote. Not a cloth diaper fan? That's ok! Just un-like the fan page when the contest is done.

We're currently in third place, and to be honest, I'm starting to wonder if we'll ever pull ahead of those other two photos. But a mama can try, right??

So go on--vote! Please?? :) ...and thank you!

Slowly, but Surely...

2010-05-01T11:39:00.000-07:00

In case you don't follow along with me on Facebook, you probably aren't aware that I've been making progress in my photography endeavor. You know--because I never seem to make it over here to blog anymore.

See my new, all-photos, all-the-time site or find me on Facebook. It probably goes without saying, but I do adore fans and followers! In the future, I can see myself offering special discounts and things via Facebook.

I'll leave you with this today, but will try to return soon.

Once upone a time...

2010-04-16T13:41:00.000-07:00

...in a land far, far away, there lived a...

Oh--forget it.

I disappeared again, didn't I? Life has an uncanny way of getting away from me these days. Sure, I've got stuff to say. But when do I say it?

So, today, I bring you...

My return!

With this:

The most depressing excuse I've ever seen for a chocolate croissant. It comes from our local 'European' bakery. And it sure does make me long for one of those Europen breakfasts I've craved since the day we flew home from London. You know--almost four years ago.

The coffee. Those croissants (the real ones). Easily, one of my fondest memories of our honeymoon.

I'm serious.

SouleMama-Inspired: {This Moment}

2010-03-26T13:32:00.000-07:00

Camden fell asleep before we made it home.
I didn't have the heart to bother him with removing his shoes.

SouleMama has started something new on her blog in recent weeks, and invites readers to play along. A simple, generally wordless post every Friday. The post contains an image from that week, and features, in her words, "A moment I want to pause, savor and remember."

We're on the Move!

2010-03-25T13:35:00.001-07:00

I'm here.

We moved. Did you know? No, no. You didn't. Because I didn't tell you. I know, I know, I've kept pretty quiet about our change of surroundings. Don't worry though, I'll give you some peeks around our new space as it begins to come together.

Boxes abound, as do missed bed times and precarious situations for the curious little toddler who now calls this (big!) apartment home.

The apartment? It's on the edge of town in a small non-complex. There are two (two!) bedrooms (bedrooms!) for us to spread ourselves out in... a space for our table... a separate kitchen. Ah, yes, this is going to be good.

We're still moving and settling, but that hasn't kept me from other, more interesting activities.

I photographed two birthday parties almost two weeks ago now, and promise to share some of my favorites here.

Ok--fine. One now, more later:

This little cutie has some of the most amazing eyes I think I've ever seen. She was exhausted when this picture was taken, but her eyes were still twinkling.

And look! My logo as a watermark! Do you love it? Because I do.

...and I've been satisfying Camden's new-found love for coloring with some homemade, chunky, hold-able crayons.

More on those in the days to come. They're so quick to make, and so much easier for Camden to hold in his hands.

I've missed this place. Seriously. And I want to come back and be more of a regular. Perhaps once we're a bit more settled? I've sure got a lot to talk about...

It's the little things...

2010-03-15T09:01:00.000-07:00

...that make life so happy.

Right?
Do you remember licking the beaters from mama's mixer when you were little?
I do.

Ok, fine.
I still lick the beaters. But that's not the point.

Soon to be Mr. & Mrs... {Olympia Engagement Photographer}

2010-03-09T19:48:00.000-08:00

Meet Shara & Isaiah.

I've known Shara since the third grade. We started talking when we sat together on the school bus, and never quit.

Hearing the news of her engagement to Isaiah was pretty darned exciting. Weddings make me happy, especially when a friend is involved.

Oddly enough, Ryan has known Isaiah since elementary school as well. They attended school together for a year or so. What are the odds?!

Anyway.

I was fortunate enough to be able to take some engagement photos for them over the weekend. As promised, you're looking at a few of my favorites from our walk at Tumwater Falls.

The weather was absolutely delightful, and I was so excited to put my new lens to the test. I haven't felt an ounce of regret over that new lens. It's amazing!!

Thanks for putting up with me, Shara & Isaiah!!

Quite possibly...

2010-03-04T10:38:00.000-08:00

...the most random post you'll ever see me write.

I'm still here. Just... busy. Let's call it busy.

More on that later. I promise to let you in on my secret eventually.

Every time I log in to my blog lately, there are 'anonymous' comments advertising dirty websites, preparation for the year 2012, or... other junk. What is UP with that? Please ignore them. I do my best to delete that stuff, but don't always find them right away.

This post has absolutely nothing to do with these two photos, but I like them. And if I didn't post the photos, it might be a little difficult to brag about my new lens. It was my birthday gift, along with a new external flash.

New camera goodies make me swoon.

I've got an engagement session coming up on Saturday... check back later next week for some photos!

Thoughts... on re-doing.

2010-02-26T12:54:00.000-08:00

Remember my mirror?

I can't tell you how positively giddy it made me to find this one over at High-Heeled Foot in the Door. Looks like I'm not the only one who thinks they're fabulous! SO THERE! Ha!

*ehem*

Aaaanyway.

I must confess, I'm not totally thrilled with the current color of my little find. I want to change it, somehow. But some *major* redecorating is on the horizon, so we'll just have to see where my imagination takes me.

I must also confess that I really had no clue how popular these mirrors are (are? are becoming? is this a new thing? I'm not sure...) I just knew it was cute and had potential.

Also fueling my ever-present urge to re-do? Better After. If you've never seen this site, you should take a look. It's so inspiring!

Take that, you old groundhog!

2010-02-18T10:26:00.001-08:00

It is a most delightful shade of sunny here today. I honestly can't remember a time when I was so happy to see Spring making its way out of hibernation. Perhaps it's the little boy who rules our days? His curiosity, his love of the outdoors, and--let's face it--his need to get outside and run.

The orchid is happy...

...and so are the little kitty feet being warmed by the sun.

I know Spring hasn't yet made its appearance in other parts of the country, and oh, how I wish it were possible to bottle some of ours and send it your way. Because it is wonderful.

This morning:

2010-02-16T10:41:00.000-08:00

Why play with your own toys?? They're not nearly as exciting as mama's little kiwi-bird-turned-car, you know...

I love his colorful imagination.

Progress...

2010-02-11T19:58:00.000-08:00

If this doesn't scream progress, I don't know what does! I absolutely love the logo Becca helped me put together. And by put together, I mean she did all the work while I spouted ideas. Lots and lots of ideas. That may not have always made sense.

...and yes, I went with my name. It just seemed like the best fit.

Anyway. If you're in the market for party or wedding invitations, logos, banners... you know, digitally designed pretties?? Visit her shop on Etsy! You'll be glad you did. Promise.

Baby J. {Olympia Newborn Photographer}

2010-02-03T08:57:00.000-08:00

I could really, really get used to these newborn shoots. Seriously. I'm absolutely, totally smitten for 'em.

The little sweethearts hardly talk back. They stay right where you ask them to.

...and they're just so.darned.cute.

Aren't they?

It's all fun and games...

2010-02-01T10:18:00.000-08:00

...until your husband winds up with a raging case of Shingles!

The bulk of our days were spent at home while Ryan recuperated--and, if we're being honest, he was a little too, ehem, medicated for much else--and tried not to scratch.

The good news is that Shingles aren't contagious. The bad news is that it is an incredibly painful condition.

But it was so nice to have daddy home with us more than usual! Mind you, I wouldn't wish Shingles on anyone. But it was still nice to be in his company. Camden was purely delighted to wake, every morning, and see that daddy hadn't already left for work.

Things are returning back to normal, though... and hopefully that means I'll be blogging a bit more too. Hopefully. Because there are some exciting things on the horizon, and I'm excited to share them with you!

Why Ryan Makes Me Laugh, Reason #296

2010-01-21T12:26:00.001-08:00

Three nights ago, somewhere in the wee hours of the morning, I woke up out of a dead sleep to a crash!, *thump* and a splash. Even in my stupor, I knew it was something cat-related.

Camden shot straight up in bed. "Stheee! Sthee!!" He pointed.

Ryan snored.

I poked at him.

He hadn't heard the noise, but surprisingly followed my directions to "...find the spill and clean it up while I get Camden back to sleep."

As he walked away, I cuddled Camden in my arms and quieted him back down. And then Ryan came back to get into bed. Not even a full 60 seconds after leaving.

When I asked him if he'd gotten all of the water sopped up, he said, "...some of it..." and proceeded to climb back into bed.

When I explained to him that he'd need to clean up the entire spill, he looked at me like I'd just sawed off his right arm and handed it back to him. Horrified, he slumped out of bed, stomped to the spill location and proceeded to SLAM things around, grumbling and griping the entire time.

No--I'm not kidding.

Why am I telling you this?

You'll see.

Still griping, he stomped back over to the bed and huffed the weight of his body back into the sheets.

(Camden is completely awake at this point and still exclaiming, "Stheee!" and now "dada!! dada!!")

"What is your problem??" I shrieked. (Being nice is not my forte at three o'clock in the morning.)

His reply?

This is good.

"We'll discuss that LATER." and he huffed and puffed again, rolled in the opposite direction and started to snore.

Me? Well. Once Camden finally went back to sleep, I was left to lay there and ponder exactly what it was I had 'done' and why he was so darned crabby with me. I was not a happy camper.

The next morning, because he'd gone to work before we got up, I sent Ryan a text.

"Soooo... do I get to find out why you were so mad last night?"

His reply?

This is also good.

"huh?"

We exchanged a couple of messages after that one, where it was decided he'd been asleep for the entire duration of our 'fight' and had no recollection of the incident. He didn't even remember cleaning up a spilled glass of water.

I still don't believe these exchanges could possibly be normal... could they??

Newborn Photography {Shelton, Washington}

2010-01-19T12:33:00.001-08:00

I could be operating under an enormous bias here, but I think this photo is pretty darned awesome. I love the light. Love his sweet little lips, and that furrowed brow. Babies have the cutest little wrinkly foreheads, don't they?

This is one of the newborn photos I hinted about the other day, and then completely forgot to post about. Life has a way, lately, of really running away with me.

Here's the full photo, without the square crop. Do you like it better? Or do you prefer the square?

...and one more from that day. He wasn't very fond of me pulling his feet up under his belly, so I didn't come away with as many 'scrunchy' poses as I had hoped for. But that's ok!

Show me your...

2010-01-14T08:44:00.000-08:00

...pineapple face? Ten bucks says it isn't as cute as Camden's...

You know you're a mom when...

2010-01-13T09:05:00.000-08:00

...this happens. I couldn't help but smile when I found a little surprise waiting for me in my morning coffee.

Books

2010-01-07T19:45:00.000-08:00

This is a scene that repeats itself every night now. Camden is head-over-heels in love with books. He looks through them all day long, touches the pictures, points at things he spots on the pages... and every couple of hours, he brings me something to read. At night, before bed, it isn't uncommon to spend an hour flipping through a big stack of books together.

Happy to oblige, I turn through the pages with him while we snuggle on the couch together.

Because I'm so thrilled over his love of books, I want to encourage him however I can. This means we've been doing a ton of book browsing when we're out and about. They're all so fun to look at! Bright, pretty pictures... rhymes and silly riddles...

...but how do I choose?

Will you help? I'm curious to learn the titles of your favorite books, and those of your kiddos.

My current favorite is near the bottom of the stack in the photo. It's called I Love You Through and Through.

What's in a Name?

2010-01-05T07:58:00.000-08:00

I took another round of newborn photos yesterday. More on that later, though. But in the interest of full disclosure... I did it!

Moving along.

I'm a thinker.

...and a planner.

I cannot tell you how often I've found myself deep in though over this photography endeavor lately. Developing my fun hobby into a profession... finding a way to support our little family financially while still staying at home... but something has been bothering me.

A name.

When I think about what might come in the months (years?) ahead, I want to be able to put a title on it!

Originally, I wanted to go with a cute name... but have since decided that just doesn't feel right, for me. This leaves me with MY name.

Christina Weedon.

Hm. What do you think?

To me, it almost feels like a mouth full of words. Christina Weedon Photography.

So that lead me to wonder about using my middle name. Leanne.

Christina Leanne Photography.

or...

Photography by Christina Leanne? by Christina Weedon?

What sounds the best? Should I ditch my name and go with something else?

I'm really anxious to hear your opinions... what better 'test market' than here??

Eight Days

2010-01-01T20:39:00.001-08:00

That's how long it has been since my last post here.

...and really? I don't even have a good reason.

It certainly isn't for lack of trying. I open my blogger account, I click the options that get me to a fresh, blank slate...

...and then nothing.

I tap my fingers on the keys, I think, trying to recall something funny or at least mildly entertaining.

And then in a fit of frustration, I give up. I close the window, shut my laptop and walk away.

It's as if my mind has been sucked completely dry by... well? a mind-sucker. A big, lumpy, hairy one. And again, if we're being honest, I often find that I just don't feel like I have anything worth sharing. Who wants to see *another* photo of my blue-eyed baby as we run through the motions of our day? Because sometimes I feel as though that's all I've got to contribute.

All this to say that I haven't gone anywhere. I haven't left Peanut's Page for greener pastures. I'm here, just feeling briefly contemplative. And quiet. Really, really quiet.

Keep with me, will you? While I collect my thoughts and try to get the ball rolling again.

I've got some ideas up my sleeve... a challenge to make some positive, 'green' changes to our lifestyle, some self-imposed changes for the new year for our little family, and the continuing saga of my photography habit. Oh--and more on my serious obsession with toys. Of the vintage, handmade, and wooden variety. Because they're so much more fun than what's available at Target!

'Twas the Night Before Christmas...

2009-12-24T22:29:00.000-08:00

...and we've already opened some gifts! Camden was a pro, having just learned the art of paper-ripping and bow-plucking at his Birthday party.

I can't get over how big he looked in his Christmas outfit. He's losing the 'baby' and growing into such a darling little boy.

...and those eyes. Oh, those eyes.

Merry Christmas, everyone!

Learning to Trust Myself

2009-12-18T19:50:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I surprise myself. I wish I were more... daring. Or adventurous, if you will. Or, no--scratch that.

I wish I knew how to have more confidence in myself.

I didn't write about today because I wanted to know that I wouldn't fail. I didn't trust myself enough to *know* I wouldn't fail.

...and if we're being honest? That makes me a little bit sad. Because I should have more faith in my ability to do something I've been practicing and practicing. and practicing.

It's all about putting one foot in front of the other, right? Take baby steps until you reach your goal.

I took another baby step today.

...and you know what? I succeeded! I took pictures of this darling brother and sister. I'm thrilled with how they turned out, and I didn't panic. Not even once.

So this is me telling you that I should have told you before I told you.

Are you with me?

What I meant to say is, I should trust myself a little more.

Signing with Baby

2009-12-16T10:51:00.000-08:00

Camden is getting a new (to us) set of chairs for Christmas.

Yes--I know. Christmas isn't happening for another nine days. But he'll never know the difference, right? ...and besides, where in the heck was I going to stash chairs?

Anyway.

These little cuties came from Etsy. I love them.

I couldn't *wait* to have Camden try them on for size. They're a bit tall for him yet, so a little assistance was required.

He seemed baffled as to why he was being required to sit on a chair as opposed to the floor. But never mind that.

A toy to nom on is enough to keep him seated.

But wait! Where'd the toy go?

This isn't good.

Wait. What's that he's trying to tell me?

Ah, yep! There it is again!

Do you know what he's saying?

"All done!!"

The decision to teach him to sign was such a good one. Do you sign with your munchkins?

Recipe: Chicken & Black Bean Salad

2009-12-15T15:21:00.000-08:00

What is it about the winter season that makes me feel as if I've been overeating for six months straight? No matter what I do, I just feel... blah. So I opted to make big, yummy salads for dinner the other day when I was in search of something not-so-heavy and likely to induce a coma.

I love this recipe for Chicken & Black Bean Salad, which is almost identical to the one found in a Taste of Home Chicken Cookbook.

Ingredients:

1/3 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lime juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
1-1/2 teaspoons sugar
1 garlic clove, minced
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
1/4 teaspoon pepper

1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups frozen corn
1 medium red pepper, chopped
1/2 cup green onions, sliced
2 cups chicken, cooked and diced

2-3 heads of romaine, washed and chopped

Directions:

Combine the oil, lime juice, cilantro, sugar, garlic, chili powder, salt and pepper to make a dressing. Mix beans, corn, red pepper, green onions and chicken together in a bowl and then coat with the oil mixture. Serve over lettuce.

Couldn't be much simpler... and it's so tasty!

A couple of thoughts:

My measurements aren't very exact when I make this. We really love cilantro, so I add more than is called for. Same with the garlic.

You can make the topping ahead and stash it in the fridge, putting it over your lettuce when you're ready to eat.

I like to use rotisserie chicken because it's easy and fast. Or, when we're grilling chicken, I make sure there will be leftovers to use for a big batch of salad.

...and? We decided the other day that it might make a tasty chip dip (sans chicken), or a yummy topping for grilled chicken in the summer.

Smartie Pants in the Making...

2009-12-10T12:07:00.000-08:00

I'm not a big fan of the TV. Sure, there are a couple of shows I thoroughly enjoy watching every week... but we watch them on Hulu when it's convenient for us.

I won't pass judgment on you if you ARE a TV nut, but I just don't care to listen to the constant drone of a turned-on, forgotten-about television.

But in a desperate attempt to get dinner in the crock pot and the dishes washed the other day, I flipped the channel to Nick Jr. for Camden. He was almost instantly engrossed in another riveting episode of Max and Ruby, and I was free to scrub and chop to my hearts content.

When I realized, a few minutes later, that he had become mysteriously quiet (mamas, you all know that feeling, right? baby is quiet... he must be up.to.no.good.) I turned toward the TV. I didn't see him and turned back around the other direction.

You know what I saw?

He makes me a proud mama, that little boy!! His back was to the TV and there were books, well, everywhere!

The decorations.

2009-12-04T19:18:00.000-08:00

I'm a little bit behind.

Again.

As usual.

But I'm finally collecting my thoughts following Camden's birthday party, and it seems logical to share some of my favorite details and moments with you, my bloggie friends.

So I'm starting with the decorations.

I was really proud of myself, when everything was said and done, for having made the majority Camden's decorations. We can hardly wait to pull out his birthday bunting again next year, and that makes me, well? proud! and happy!

Anyway.

I also made these big, fluffy-looking tissue paper balls. They hung in different corners of the room... and, if I'm being honest? I loved them too much to crumple up and throw away.

So they're hanging above our bed.

...and Ryan thinks I've lost my mind. He won't admit to it. But I can tell.

Moving along.

The bunting and the tissue paper balls made up the majority of the decorations, but I also put up a few crepe paper streamers and we made a last-minute decision to buy twenty red and blue balloons to be used as a back-drop for Camden's cake pictures.

I cannot tell you how glad I am that we made that decision. It just... I don't know... added something to the pictures?

So there you have it. I like to think I managed to keep the decorating simple enough to be pleasant and not in-your-face obnoxious. It was exactly what I was going for.

...and if you were there and it was obnoxious? Please do not tell me. Just let me live out my fantasy. Thank you.

He's One!

2009-11-29T20:00:00.001-08:00

Camden's party this evening was an, ehem, smashing success!

I'm one tired mama, but couldn't resist posting at least one picture. More to come--I promise.

Happy Birthday, sweet Camden! Mama loves you!

Hooked.

2009-11-25T14:56:00.000-08:00

We all know I've got a major case of ADD when it comes to crafty things, right?

So should it come as any surprise that I've picked up something new? Again?

Of course not.

I like to sew, you see. Living in a one-room abode, however, does not lend itself easily to late-night sewing jags... or to nap time projects.

So I needed something quiet.

Something... relaxing. And happy.

Enter a new crochet hook, some basic online directions and some pretty yarn. The color says 'aquarium,' and a dreamy color it is.

Surprisingly enough, I'm not half bad, either! I'm just playing around and trying to figure out how not to make a mess right now... but I think I may be hooked!

Yea--that was bad.

Anyway.

Aren't the kitty-tooshies in the background fitting?? I think so.

Bunting

2009-11-24T08:25:00.000-08:00

Remember the fabric we picked out a couple of weeks ago?

It was for Camden's party, of course. To be made into Birthday Bunting. My hope is that we can pull it out every year in the week leading up to his birthday. Kids like tradition, don't they?

I've got visions of hanging it over our kitchen table... the one that resides in the sunny, cozy breakfast nook in the cute little house in my head.

Anyway.

Here's the finished product:

I thought about writing up a tutorial for you, but there are so many of them already available. Instead, I'll share the link to my favorite tutorial.

I'll make sure to take photos once it's been put up for the party, too, because I'm absolutely in love with how it turned out!

Up to my eyeballs.

2009-11-22T20:21:00.000-08:00

Yep, that title sums up the current state of affairs. I'm up to my eyeballs in birthday bunting, coordinating napkins and plates, decorations and dinner plans. But I'm here!

The week in review?

...a 24-hour power outage.
...wind. Lots and lots of wind.
...and rain. Buckets of rain.
...an obscene amount of money spent on one very important (and delicious!) cake for one very important little boy.
...gift shopping.
...rain. Have I mentioned it's been raining? Scratch that. Pouring.
...multiple trips to the party store, the craft store and Target.
...five days off for Ryan. I wish he could be around like this *all* the time.
...and this little guy:

He's learning to trust those legs he stands on. Slowly, but surely, he's getting to be more and more brave. Tell me though. Have you ever seen a tiny one who stands up in the middle of the room and starts off walking as opposed to letting go of a piece of furniture somewhere?? I haven't. But it's stinkin' cute!

I can't believe he'll be an official toddler this time next week.

Decisions, DIY Projects and Growing Up...

2009-11-18T09:22:00.000-08:00

I feel as though it's been ages since I managed to post two days in a row. The hours slip by so quickly, and then it's time to get up and start all over again. I feel as though an update is in order... perhaps I'll find my motivation along the way?

We've been busy around here. Really busy.

Party plans are swirling around in my head, some of the ideas making their way on to paper--some of them lost before I even have a chance to jot them down. Invitations are in the mail, and believe me when I say that felt like a *huge* accomplishment. More on the party later.

Ryan spent the weekend away. He drove the five hours across our state to visit our old college town. It was cold. Really cold. But he had a good time anyway. Boys are funny that way.

While he was gone, my mom helped me pull a sneaky stunt and we tiled the backsplash area in our kitchen. White subway tile... and man, am I ever in love. This picture is almost embarrassing it's so... ugh... but it gives you an idea.

Camden has decided he no longer requires assistance where spoons are concerned. He's all about feeding himself. I had no idea it was possible to clean a floor so often.

Messy or not, he sure is cute.

Eating on his own isn't his only new trick. Yesterday, I watched as he took five big steps all on his own. I wonder, will we have a toddling baby at the party??

Everyone tells me I'll be sorry when he finally discovers his ability to walk. Truly though? I'm just excited. Nothing makes me happier than seeing him learn and grow... and if we're being honest? I'm a little bit excited to be able to put him down in public from time to time without him instantly crawling all over a yucky floor.

There--do you feel up to speed? I do. Sort of. I also feel wildly awkward posting an "update" to my blog... but hey, a mama has to do what a mama has to do.

Look for me. Hold me accountable. I'll be back.

Blocks.

2009-11-13T07:42:00.000-08:00

I've been busy this week turning these:

...into these:

I've been searching for a nice set of wooden blocks for Camden, and just hadn't come across anything that really jumped out at me. Instead, I thought I might make him a set all his own.

It's slow going, trimming the little pieces of paper to fit each side, and then applying so many coats of Mod Podge while he naps, but definitely worth the outcome.

They're not all patterned, but you'll just have to wait and see what else I've got in store!

Why I Love Craig's List

2009-11-11T10:01:00.000-08:00

...because you can score a super-awesome, egg-shaped spinning chair that will entertain your almost-toddler for ages while you do ten different crafty projects all at once.

The crafty projects? Those are coming. Soon.

The chair? $30. Sold by Ikea.

Bowled Over.

2009-11-06T01:15:00.000-08:00

I spent yesterday afternoon taking pictures for my grandpa. He's a wood turner, and quite a talented one at that.

I love how the pieces stand out against the stark white background. What do you think??

Ruffles have r-r-r-ridges!

2009-11-05T09:22:00.000-08:00

Remember that commercial?? For potato chips?

I don't think the Ruffles slogan is the same anymore, but I still think of that phrase when I see a bag of chips.

Anyway.

This post has nothing to do with chips. There's a surprise.

It has everything to do with a couple of has-been shirts, though, that hang in the 'dead zone' of our closet.

A couple of things you should know about me: I'm obsessed with t-shirts. and I'm obsessed with gray and brown clothing.

What do those all add up to?? ...a wardrobe that makes me yaaaawn.

But between the recent refashions and the ruffle tee tutorial over at Homemade by Jill, and the ruffle tank on Samster Mommy, I've been cooking up an idea. I think my plain {gray} tee's might have potential!

J.Crew offers a selection of ruffled tees and tanks, but I think I'll keep my $29.95 and try my DIY version instead.

What do you think? Try it? ...or will I risk looking like a washed-out (washed up??) pinata??

The Party.

2009-11-04T08:56:00.000-08:00

My last post hinted about plans for a party. A party for a certain little boy who will turn one at the end of this month. Can you believe it??

The red and turquoise goodies are the beginnings of a theme, and the fabrics and binding are, indeed, waiting to be made into a cheery string of bunting.

It is my goal to make as many of the decorations and goodies as I can. The themed birthday supplies at the party store really just don't appeal to me, so what better way to get what I've been looking for??

The picture above is my trial-run invitation. I'm so happy with the way it turned out!!

Plans.

2009-11-02T14:40:00.000-08:00

We took daddy shopping today. The party store and Joann's. He was so brave... and even took a number for us at the fabric cutting counter. Perhaps the promised trip to the Olive Garden, his pot of gold at the end of the errand rainbow, was what kept him going.

Anyway. Here's our loot:

Any guesses what I've got up my sleeve this time??

Only at Grandma and Grandpa's...

2009-11-01T07:20:00.000-08:00

...would Camden get away with making such a big mess!

We had dinner with my grandparents, parents, aunt and uncle last night before Trick-or-Treating. After dinner, we all watched as Camden wreaked havoc on my grandma's tupperware cabinet.

How can someone so tiny and cute make such a big mess??

...and because it wouldn't be an after-Halloween post without a picture of the little guy, here he is all dressed up and ready to go.

He had so much fun choosing candy from the bowls and dropping his selections into his bucket. Apparently the bright orange Reese's packages were most appealing to him. Way to go, baby! That's mama's favorite!

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T07:12:00.000-07:00

We'll be spending the day with our little frog prince... what are your plans??

Mirror Image

2009-10-30T16:30:00.000-07:00

Apparently I'm going to have to stop making promises I can't keep. Because believe me, while I had the best intentions of promptly posting photos of my projects, it just didn't happen...

Baby needs, mama needs, daddy needs, messes and dirty dishes... all things that have gotten in my way over the last couple of days. The list is a lot longer than that, but I won't bore you. At least not intentionally.

Anyway. Here's that ugly mirror...

What do you think? It's ok if you hate it, because I love it. And it lives on my wall--not yours!

I wish Ryan were equally impressed with the transformation, but no such luck.

The frame? Well, that'll have to come another day. It's painted, and I'm sure you can guess which color, but not in place yet. Like I said--another day.

A new coat of paint...

2009-10-27T10:06:00.000-07:00

My overwhelming urge to be crafty is still here, and with daddy home today, I was free to go outside and put two fresh, new cans of paint to use during nap time.

The lucky recipients of a new coat of paint are this mirror, a Goodwill find that my entire family finds to be beyond hideous:

(Yes, it's a mirror. I got too excited and taped it up before the photo.)

...and this frame. It's going to, uh, frame... a project I'm working on for Camden.

There you go! A peek into my day... what do you think? Is the mirror truly horrible? Any guesses what the frame will hold?

I'll post the finished projects tomorrow morning.

Honestly.

2009-10-24T11:27:00.000-07:00

I'll be honest. I've got nothin' of my own for you. My mind is mush--perhaps flooded from all of the rain we've experienced in the last week.

But! I've had a major crafting bug lately, and so I've been doing a lot of nap time surfing. Want to see some of my newest favorites? Maybe they'll spark your creativity too.

I love Samster Mommy's quick crafts. I'm having visions of adding some waffle sleeves to baby's onesies just in time for the colder months? Adding some ruffles to a boring tee is sitting on my list too. How cute!

This playhouse from Homemade by Jill would be absolutely *perfect* for us, considering our, ehem, spacial... issues. I'd love to make one for Camden, but I've got to get over my fear of giant sewing projects first. While you're there, take a look at her handmade birthday decorations for her little guy. We've got a birthday coming up, you know! ...and I'd love to make one of these cute butterfly 'specimin cases' too.

This advent calendar from Pottery Barn Kids caught my eye a while back. But I cough and sputter every time I look at the price tag. So I'm making my own. More on that later... and would you like to see the whole process? or just the final result?

What's on your crafty, creative list?

Thursday already??

2009-10-22T09:15:00.000-07:00

Oh man... is it really Thursday already? Where has this week gone?

I've spent my days buried amongst laundry piles, birthday ideas and plans, a bit of tummy trouble for the little one, visits with grandparents, and a little boy who has decided he might like to try napping only once a day.

Just in case you find yourself anxious for a peek into our world this week, here it is.

He's discovered his ability to climb in and out of his inflatable duck, and so he routinely removes all of the toys and climbs in.

Orchids...

2009-10-18T10:27:00.000-07:00

We're plant people. Did you know that?

We're also orchid people. Did you know that?

Orchids are a bit tricky, though, and quite finicky. They like certain temperatures, certain amounts of water, just the right light... unless you're lucky, and you find a lazy orchid.

We brought that little yellow guy up there home a few years ago, and he has treated us to amazing, tiny yellow flowers about once a year. They last quite a while, and they always come during the cooler months. Last time it was in bloom, we were bringing Camden home from the hospital.

Ryan has been begging me to take a picture of it this year, and I finally did. He's also been begging me to tell all of you about his prized plant... so, babe, here you go! They know all about your orchid now.

You can see a larger version of the photo on Flickr.

How I Botched the Perfect Proposal

2009-10-16T08:25:00.000-07:00

I did. I ruined Ryan's surprise. It took approximately one sentence. Maybe two, if we're being generous.

September 8th, 2005:

Ryan suggests we go camping at Palouse Falls the following day. There are several things wrong with this suggestion... the most important of which is the fact that I do not particularly enjoy dirt, bugs, peeing in bushes, sleeping on the ground, or anything else related to camping.

Ok--fine. I like the s'mores.

...and hot dogs.

Fine. The fire is kind of pretty too.

I was trying to be a trooper, though, and I said we could go. We started to talk about the food we'd take, when we would leave... you know. The usual.

At least I think that's the usual. Like I said--just say no to camping. That's my policy.

September 9th, 2005:

I panic. I'm reading weather reports and seeing lots of cold and rain. All weekend. Visions of blue-tarp camping are dancing in my head... and then I realize something. We do not OWN a blue tarp.

So I call Ryan, who is at work, and tell him I do not wish to go camping.

"It'll be cold," I moaned, "...and wet."

How was I supposed to know he wanted to take me down to the base of the falls and propose amongst the rocks and, uh... other... nature-y things?

...and the bugs. BUGS, I tell you.

So we didn't go. Because I didn't know. It's not like he could say, "Oh no, hunny, we must go. If we don't go, I won't be able to propose to you!"

I think he was already nervous, at that point. Naturally. Proposals equal nervous men, do they not? He's nervous, and then I go and mess with his carefully laid plans.

So that evening, right there in the living room of our cute, blue rental house, he asked me to marry him.

And it was perfect. For us. Because I didn't need anything out of the ordinary for that memory to be a special one.

I gave him a big hug and a kiss, and then he handed me the phone.

"Go on, call your mom." ...and he was serious.

It's important to know your bride before you propose to her, you know? Even down to the details. Like the fact that she'll need to call her mother immediately after the occurrence of an event so big as a proposal.

I know lots of you have been proposed to... tell me the story!

Framed.

2009-10-15T10:27:00.000-07:00

I know, I know. We already talked about the pumpkin patch. But I love this picture. In my highly biased opinion, it should be framed.

Perhaps I'll do just that.

I'm more in love with the story behind the picture... the people IN the picture... the activity, the memory. I'm not just full of myself. Promise.

Pumpkin Pickin'

2009-10-14T10:53:00.000-07:00

We went to the pumpkin patch on Monday.

Walking toward the row of wheel barrows, I spotted a lonely, orange wagon. I knew it would be the perfect addition to our pumpkin pictures, so I panicked a bit when I saw some kids coming from the opposite direction.

"Wagon, Ryan! Get the wagon! RUUUNNN!" I hissed.

...and he did just that. And the wagon was OURS.

I'm going to be a great influence on Camden when he's a bit older, aren't I??

...but isn't the wagon cuuuute?

And this little boy is pretty darned cute too, if I do say so myself. And that hat. Oooh, that hat. It makes me grin and giggle.

Feelin' Buggy

2009-10-12T09:52:00.000-07:00

From time to time, I come across a bug that doesn't give me a major case of the heebie-jeebies. Take caterpillars, for instance. They're cute, they're furry... relatively innocent.

And they don't scurry. I think that's a big part of it.

Someone should tell this little guy, though, that it's never fashionable to wear brown with black.

Anyway--since caterpillars don't result in screeching and running, I scooped him up so Camden could see too.

(no--those aren't my man-hands up there. They're Ryan's. I was busy taking pictures.)

It's always fun to show him something new.

Now--how to tell a ten-month-old that caterpillars don't make a good snack? ...and that we must be gentle, or he might squirt some sort of nasty bug juice on us?

Dating.

2009-10-09T19:02:00.000-07:00

I ran over a possum once.

Wait. Would that be an opossum? Or a possum?

Where's an English Major when you need one?

Oh--there we go. According to Opossum.org, it's got an O.

Aaaanyway.

I ran over one of them-thar creatons. I mean--creatures.

I was in high school. It was the fourth of July, and I was not alone. I was driving my tiny, white Hyundai Accent. My boyfriend, with whom I was completely enamored, was in the passenger seat. In the back seat, Shannon. We spent that entire summer together. I'm talking toothbrushes at the opposite houses, clothes left behind, ate all our meals together... spent-the-entire-summer-together.

Shannon--not the boyfriend. I would later find out he was disposable. But never mind that.

So we were driving to our destiny (ok, fine, the park....and we may or may not have had bottle rockets stashed in the trunk), and out came the (o)possum, in all of his beady-eyed glory. He was HUGE. So big he was waddling.

And before I could react, I was running over him. No attempts to swerve, no brakes... just... tha-thump-a-bump!

...that wasn't all, either.

tha-thump-a-bump! went the back tire too.

I don't know what came over me at that moment, but I started to laugh. I laughed hysterically. I laughed until my stomach ached and tears ran down my face. And so did my disposable boyfriend.

...but when I looked in the rear-view mirror, I saw a completely different expression across Shannon's face. She was one part mortified, one part sad. Not just sad--downright up.set. over the demise of the (o)possum.

Shannon is that way, you see. She's a gentle, kind soul. She loves like there's no tomorrow. Even (o)possums.

Why am I telling you this? It's my way-too-long-to-be-an-introduction, um, introduction. All of this to tell you Camden had a date yesterday afternoon. With Shannon's daughter.

Could they be any cuter?

I think not.

Camden.

2009-10-08T10:36:00.001-07:00

I've said a lot about him lately... but he's been on my mind. I know, I know, when is he not?? But truly--more now than the usual. I'm not sure what it is.

Every day, there is something new. Standing unassisted, attempting to walk... and I catch a glimpse of him sometimes, and he isn't my tiny baby anymore. Yes--he's still a baby, he stills falls into the category, but where have the chubby cheeks gone? and the gummy, toothless smile? Those cheeks have made way for what I can now identify as his 'little boy' face... and where there was once only a pink, smooth surface, I can spot six teeth.

He is social. He is intelligent. He's opinionated--and doesn't hesitate to let me know about it! When he is excited, he grins and claps. If he doesn't like his meal, he shakes his head no and waves bye-bye.

We're starting to consider what his first birthday will be like. Gifts, certainly, but understated. A party, yes... but nothing big or overdone. We'll save those for the future.

Mama's... tell me. What should I skip? What's a fun, memorable way to celebrate? Do you wish you had done something differently... or treasure the memories of that day?

(truly) Wordless Wednesday

2009-10-07T09:46:00.000-07:00

I've got a new hobby...

2009-10-06T10:06:00.002-07:00

...and so does Camden!!

I can't believe how this new push-toy has given him a major dose of confidence. He's the proud owner of two different push-toys, but the other one just isn't... effective. We bought this yesterday, and he's already making great strides (literally!) toward becoming a walker.

Anyway. That's where MY new hobby comes in. I've discovered consignment and second-hand baby stores as a place to find fun, exciting new toys. They're almost always in brand-new condition, and for pennies. That new toy yesterday was $9.

Before he plays with our finds, I bring them home and give them a good scrub with the Clorox Wipes because you just never know what might be lurking... but I love the fact that, because things aren't packaged up in boxes and plastic, he can test them out before we leave the store. This way, I'm more confident that he's going to like what we buy.

I've got a feeling I'm going to be chasing after that cute little tooshie in the weeks to come...

Toys.

2009-10-05T09:59:00.000-07:00

On any given day, this is what you would see if you were to talk through our door. Camden takes great (and I do mean great) delight in emptying things of their contents. He doesn't discriminate, either. Baskets, cabinets, drawers, boxes... nothing is spared.

But you know? I don't mind, for some reason.

You're going to laugh at me...

2009-10-03T10:52:00.000-07:00

...but it's true! I've got photographic evidence!

It's no secret that we live in one room, right? It makes for some interesting evenings. Don't want to turn the TV up to watch, say, The Biggest Loser, because then baby wakes up and we ALL lose. Sleep, that is.

So what do we do?

...we spread a bunch of blankets on the floor, look up our favorite shows on hulu.com, and watch 'em with Ryan's cute, blue ear-buds in. We each get one, as we've only got one pair.

How's that for being creative and cheap?!

Spider! Spider! Spiiiiiiiider!

2009-10-01T10:13:00.000-07:00

We've all established the fact that I do not care for spiders, yes??

So imagine my horror when, late Saturday evening, I heard a scuttling noise and spied a kitty crouched and ready to pounce. Before she could make her move, I darted over to investigate.

Sure thing. A spider. A really, really big spider.

Undaunted, I did what any rational adult would:

I trapped the sucker under a glass, propped a flashlight on top so I could SEE that he wasn't going anywhere, took a picture, and then sent Ryan an urgent text message.

He was laughing when he came through the door a few minutes later, but even he cringed at the loud 'pop!' we heard when he squished the beast.

Any bigger, and we might have put a leash on him and named him Jimmy.

(almost) Wordless Wednesday

2009-09-30T07:59:00.000-07:00

Sometimes we just need a nap... y'know?

I inadvertently fell asleep while putting Camden into bed for his afternoon nap the other day. When we woke up, I could hear the faintest little snore coming from Daddy's chair.

So we crept out of bed and over to where he sat to investigate. This is what we found.

I'm here. Sort of.

2009-09-29T07:35:00.000-07:00

Seriously--I'll get back into my groove one of these days, right? Because my blogging groove, as of late, feels more like a blogging black hole.

We're currently recovering from round three (I think?) of the sickness that never ends, and boy, am I ever sick of being sick. I didn't think I'd ever say this, but I'm almost tired of wearing pajamas and lounging so much.

Meanwhile, fall is settling in around us and I couldn't be happier. This year, I've discovered I'm really, really looking forward to everything fall brings. Warmer clothes, trips to the pumpkin patch, a certain little one and his first birthday...

How about you? What's your favorite thing about fall? or do you detest the cooler months?

Creativity.

2009-09-26T10:01:00.000-07:00

I discovered this man being all artsy during our visit to the lighthouse. I watched him for quite some time, as he put his vision on canvas. He was using oil pastels... and boy, was I ever impressed.

I don't know a darned thing about him, but I imagined his life to be so peaceful and happy. I imagined him waking up, walking out his front door and down the street to stand above the ocean and do nothing but, well, draw.

But it was so much more than drawing. It was almost magical, the feeling I had while I watched him.

...and then I got sick.

2009-09-25T10:33:00.000-07:00

We just can't catch a break this week! Camden came down with a nasty bug mere hours before boarding our first flight home, and then promptly shared it with the *entire* family.

I was the first time catch it from him, naturally, and I'm finally starting to feel human again, but our week has consisted mostly of napping. and tissues. lots and lots of tissues.

Does anyone have a quick, efficient method for de-germifying all of these darned toys??

Pemaquid Point

2009-09-23T09:25:00.000-07:00

While the trip to Maine was mostly about visiting friends, we took some time to sight-see as well. The lighthouse at Pemaquid Point was probably my favorite.

It was a beautiful, warm, sunny day. The weather really couldn't have been better--and doesn't the weather just make an experience?

I especially loved the details--the character--of the lighthouse and its surroundings. Oh, what I would have given to get that place all to myself. I could have taken pictures for hours.

Ok--maybe not entirely to myself. I'd keep these girls around. More on them later.

I've hit a wall.

2009-09-21T14:29:00.000-07:00

Ok, fine. Not really.

Well, sort of.

I've been absent for nearly a week now, as I'm sure the majority of you have noticed. Thank you so much for continuing to poke your head in and look for me.

Do you recall that I took a trip to Maine??

It was an amazing get-away. Filled with friends, laughter, and a beautiful part of the country I had never seen before.

While I was away, I intended to keep everyone up-to-date on our adventures, but I simply found myself too tired at the end of the day to even consider blogging.

Please forgive me?

I'm back now, and with a little luck, this jet-lag will remedy itself and I'll once again be a coherent, functioning part of society.

Come back over the course of this week to see more photos from Maine. I'm so excited to share them!!

Did the Puyallup!

2009-09-15T10:36:00.000-07:00

We learned about chicks...

...of the avian variety, of course.

We learned about squishing our nose and lips against plastic...

...and making everyone laugh at you. And then laughing with everyone laughing at you.

We nommed an ear...

...of the elephant variety, of course.

We napped...

...well, Camden did.

You're there for us every September, Mr. Fair. We can't wait to see you again next year!

Do the Puyallup!

2009-09-14T09:37:00.000-07:00

Today, we will "do the Puyallup!" The fair, that is!!

Need I tell you there will be pictures to follow? Because, well, duh!

P.S., major bonus points if you're not from 'round these parts and you can successfully pronounce the name of the city. Puyallup.

Another first...

2009-09-13T12:46:00.000-07:00

I have a tendency to disappear on the weekends lately, don't I?? This weekend, I have a good reason. I promise.

Yesterday, our whole day was gobbled up with Camden's first football game. He surprised us all and didn't have a single melt-down all day long. What a kid!!

He especially loved the chance to sit in his own seat with a snack and his blanket. Notice the improvised leg-as-a-barricade plan!

Also on the list of highlights...

...tasting daddy's root beer... (tsk, tsk!!)

...and a pretty sunset over the water as we were leaving.

Piled: My Dirty Little Secret

2009-09-11T06:51:00.000-07:00

I can't help it. I'm a pile-er.

What does this mean, exactly??

It means that I stack. I sort. I pile.

At any given time, you might look around this place and find five different piles. Ten, on a bad day. Diapers (clean, of course) are stacked just so. Blankets, folded one on top of the other.

But where this talent of mine isn't so useful is with paper. You know the kind. Mail, bills, magazines, receipts, recipes you printed but never made, a note from the last doctor's visit... are you with me?

What do you DO with all of these things, but stack them up (neatly, for sure... I wouldn't dream of a messy pile!) until you've produced a stack worth doing something with.

I typically cannot be bothered to sort on the fly, therefore, piles.

My habit isn't something Ryan is a fan of, I don't imagine. Once in a while, push comes to shove (literally) and the pile winds up toppling over. It's not pretty when that happens. I watch in horror as it goes... the last receipt fluttering so gracefully to the ground.

While he was in Reno, I sorted The Pile and put away every last scrap of paper. I'll admit, the majority was trash. You should see how I sort the pile, by the way. It involves a series of smaller piles. The file-pile, the trash pile and the recycle pile... and then there's the recipe-book pile, the picture pile... oh, I could go on for ever. And risk boring you to tears.

But the kicker? I've already got a new pile started. It's a never ending battle, me and my piles.

I don't understand. Why can't I just throw.it.away. on the spot? I need some sort of super-fabulous organizational system, I think. Or just a little space, maybe.

What about you? Are you a pile-er? Or a toss-er?

Photography: a project.

2009-09-10T06:43:00.000-07:00

I've come to a decision on the photography project. I think.

I tend to change my mind more than my shoes, but maybe this one will stick.

Ok, fine. Bad example. I've worn the same brown flip-flops all.summer.long. What did you want me to say? underwear??

This 100 Strangers thing really, really intimidates me. I'm a social person. I'm outgoing, and I talk. a lot. But walking up to someone and asking, point blank, if I might stick a camera in their face? That's a different level of self-confidence, and I'm just not sure I'm there yet. If I'm going to do it, I want to be successful, ya know?

So, to start, I'm going to try the alphabet idea. I honestly don't know yet if I'll search for particular letters in my surroundings, by finding interesting letters on signs and what-not, or if I'll do the "a is for apple" routine. Hopefully that will come to me.

I'd love to put everything together to make a book--and you guys are right. What a fun treasure for Camden!

When I've finished this project (or maybe before I'm finished, who knows??) I may try to re-visit the 100 Strangers idea. I really, really want to do it, but I need to work up the nerve.

My next question: do you guys want to see the alphabet as it progresses??

A Rolling Stone...

2009-09-09T06:53:00.000-07:00

...gathers no moss. But fence posts do!

We went for a walk Monday morning. The sun was shining for the first time in a few days, drying away the last of the torrential rains we've had.

Ryan laughed at me when I stopped to take these pictures. In fact, I do belive he called me weird. I loved the lumpy, bumpy moss on top of the old fence post though.

When we got home and I loaded them to my computer, even Ryan was interested. He's decided he'd like to have one of those giggle-worthy moss photos as his computer background.

So, there!

One of these days, he'll stop passing judgement on the silly things I take pictures of.

The Best Chocolate Chip Cookies. I promise.

2009-09-08T07:02:00.000-07:00

This is, by far, my favorite recipe for chocolate chip cookies. I promise you won't be disappointed, and I promise they're worth the longer-than-average list of ingredients. The original recipe can be found over at allrecipes.com, but I've made a few changes and added a few things here and there.

The Ingredients:

4 1/2 cups of flour
2 tsp. baking soda
2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt
2 cups of butter
1 1/2 cups of brown sugar
1/2 cup white sugar
2 (3.4 oz.) packages instant vanilla pudding mix
4 eggs
2 tsp. vanilla extract
One bag of milk chocolate chips

The Directions:

Mix the flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt together in a small bowl. Set aside. Bonus points if you sift the mixture together instead of just stirring.

Cream together the butter (no--I do not want to talk about the fact that this recipe calls for four sticks of butter.), and both sugars. Make sure they're really, really well mixed. Walk away from the mixer for a minute or two if you have to.

Slowly add the two pudding mixes to the butter/sugar mixture. Again, mix very well, and only add a little at a time.

Add the eggs and vanilla next, and don't be afraid to add even a bit more vanilla. I promise, you won't do anything but good. Oh--and please, please do yourself a favor. Buy *real* vanilla, and not that imitation stuff.

When all of the 'wet' ingredients are combined, slowly add the flour mixture. Only about 1/2 cup at a time, taking care to mix very, very well.

(...are you tired of me telling you this yet? Trust me--it's worth it, and it WILL make a difference.)

Finally, fold in the chocolate chips. Add some chopped walnuts if that's your thing. It's not my thing.

Refrigerate the dough for at least 45 minutes, preferably longer, and then scoop cute, round cookie dough balls onto ungreased cookie sheets. Bake at 350 degrees for about ten minutes.

If you have a melon baller or a small scoop, get it out. It's much easier to scoop round, even cookies if you aren't using a spoon.

Hints:

Let the butter come to room temperature before use. Don't WARM it, but let it come to temperature on its own.

While you're at it, let the eggs warm to room temperature too.

Use milk chocolate chips, not semi-sweet.

Cold dough will make nicer, slightly "puffier" cookies than warm dough.

Cool your cookie sheets between each batch. If you don't have enough to rotate them, run them under cold water. Putting them outside will do the trick too.

Remember, you're only adding the powdered pudding mix. Don't MAKE the pudding.

Try a different pudding flavor for variety.

Take the cookies out of the oven when the edges are only slightly golden brown. The top of the cookies WILL look undercooked. Pleased trust me. Please take them out of the oven before they appear to be completely done. They'll finish cooking on the pan, because you're going to be patient and allow them to sit for a few minutes before scooping them off and putting them on a rack to cool.

Speaking of pans, you'll have better luck with a dark, coated pan. Not a shiny pan.

Remember not to grease your pans.

Oh--and one last step. It's extremely important that you pose your cookies for a photo shoot while your husband sits on the couch and rolls his eyes at you. And teases you. Trust me, it's all a part of the process.

Considering a new project...

2009-09-05T19:45:00.000-07:00

I'm always looking for a new project. Something to capture my attention--and stuff that gets results! Something new has come across my radar, as is the usual, and I'm in search of an opinion. Or ten. So, please, be opinionated!

Here's what I want:

A daily/weekly/etc. photo challenge.
An, um, challenge. (duh!)
Something that might take me outside of my comfort zone.
To use my camera. A lot.

My original thought:

A '100 Strangers' challenge. My mission would be to meet, and photograph, 100 strangers. People on the street, at the mall, whatever. I would talk to them and ask their permission to take their picture, maybe find out a bit of background... and then, of course, write a blog post! I took a peek online this evening and came across an eerily similar suggestion over at DPS.

I'm terrible about talking to strangers, in a sense. Maybe this would help me break out of that shell? Or maybe I'd be horrified and never finish my project. Baby steps, right?

Other thoughts... a picture of my surroundings every day, a 'numbers' challenge... finding a certain number of objects in the world around me... or... something? (ok--this last one is a little half-baked.)

Where you come in:

Help! You people are creative. I just know you are. Do you have an idea?? My main objectives are to continue to learn about photography and to do something... just a little different.

I can't wait to read your ideas. Don't let me down!

Mama's Little Cutie

2009-09-04T09:07:00.000-07:00

We're going to Maine in two weeks, just my baby and me. The trip has really managed to sneak up on me, and I'm feeling absolutely, completely panicked.

I'm also absolutely, completely panicked over flying across the country, alone, with Camden. Anyone have any tips to share??

Anyway, as a part of our preparations, we're working on Camden's Fall wardrobe. Naturally, he'll need a hat for Maine, no?

I present, Maine Hat:

...of course, getting him to leave it on is a battle all in itself, but it's sure cute, isn't it?

Also on the list, a new pair of shoes, courtesy of his Grammie. He's had them for a while, but they're finally a good fit. Yippee!! Doesn't he look cute in his tiny little Chuck's?

I've discovered something lately. The selection for not-so-tiny but not-a-big-boy clothes really stinks. Is there a hidden gem I don't know about? Where do you boy mama's shop?

I'm done!

2009-09-03T07:44:00.000-07:00

I've learned something about myself in the last 48 hours.

I am, without a doubt, not a fan of tying quilts. Not sure what it was... perhaps the fact that I stabbed myself with the needle? In.my.lip. (don't ask. I don't know.) ...or perhaps the fact that I BROKE a needle?

Anyway. It's done.

Please excuse this second photo. I've had visions of hanging the quilt out on an old clothesline, wheat field in the background, soft breeze blowing... but that's just not happening. The kitchen floor will have to do.

The Ice Cream Man??

2009-09-02T08:32:00.000-07:00

Ryan worked an overnight shift on Sunday night, to fill in for his missing and/or mortally wounded crew. Being unaccustomed to the night shift, he had a hard time sleeping on Sunday, and by 'hard time,' I mean he didn't, which resulted in an over-tired, goofy husband come Monday.

I left the room Monday evening to put in a load of laundry, and when I came back he was hovering over the kitchen sink, head cocked to the side, listening to the DRAIN.

"What are you doing?" I asked, amused.

No reply.

"Babe. WHAT are you doing?" ...this time, amused and a bit annoyed.

His reply was a bit curt. "Shhhhh!! If you'd STOP TALKING, you'd hear it."

So, I did what any loving wife would do, and I leaned in next to him to listen for 'it.' Never mind I was stifling my laughter.

No sound.

"Ryan. I can't hear a thing. You're just tired."

"No... I hear music. But it stopped."

Doing my best not to just roll my eyes and laugh at him, I decided I'd help him find "the music" and I crossed my fingers that it wasn't just in his head.

"Wait, there it is again!!" he observed.

I chose logic over, uh, whatever it was Ryan was doing, and started looking for musical toys that had been left on.

Without warning, he darted across the room.

*GASP!!*

"Is it the ICE CREAM MAN???" He was already half way out the door.

As he ran out the door, I found the music. It was coming from a small, blue seahorse wedged under the edge of the couch.

Definitely not the ice cream man. Which makes me wonder, if the ice cream man in his childhood neighborhood played lullabies, how did he ever drum up any business??

Oops.

2009-08-31T21:24:00.000-07:00

This might contradict what I was saying the other day about unfinished projects, but when I get an idea in my head, and I'm excited about that idea, I have a tendency to shove everything else to the back burner until I've finished my mission. You know... unimportant things. Like the bills, grocery shopping, blogging... er. um.

Anyway. I cut out 80 6.5-inch flannel squares on Saturday. I had a decent stash of kid-prints and solid colors going, and I wanted to put them all to good use. I also wanted to make a new blanket for Camden.

Yesterday, I sewed all 80 squares into a quilt top. I ironed, I snipped threads, I pinned and I stitched. All afternoon.

Today, I went off in search of the backing, and found a spunky, sports-themed bed sheet. The perfect back for a quilt, as there are no seams required! Yippeee!!

I washed, I sewed, and I pinned some more.

Tomorrow, the finishing touches where sewing is concerned... and then I've got a date with a big, fat needle and some embroidery floss. I'm going to tie the quilt as opposed to, well, quilting it.

Does that mean I'm making a tie?

Pictures to follow.

Editing.

2009-08-29T10:18:00.001-07:00

I'm always amazed at the difference a little editing can make in a photo. I'm really taking a liking to my newest editing software, called Lightroom.

Take this picture, for example:

This is the SOOC (straight-out-of-camera) shot.

This black & white version was achieved with a pre-set in Lightroom. Similar to a Photoshop Action, it's a series of tweaks that all happen with a single click.

Another pre-set, this one focuses on color.

...and another. This time, the pre-set was called 'fantasy island,' and make the photo look, well, a little "dreamy," dontcha think? I'm not partial to this option. Maybe that's because I haven't quite figured out how to tone it down yet.

This time, I chose a 'wedding styling' pre-set. I like this. It adds depth, no?

Branching out on my own... I warmed the photo up a bit, took out some of the 'harshness' in Camden's skin-tone, and added a vignette--the darkness around the edges of the photo.

Do you have a favorite?

Family Photography??

2009-08-28T06:23:00.000-07:00

I've got the photography bug somethin' fierce this week. Can you tell??

When I was making Ryan's tiny little photo album for his trip to Reno, it became glaringly obvious that we really don't have any pictures of the three of us together.

I wish this photo could convey Camden's laughter as Ryan
flipped him over. He was purely delighted!

So, what's a girl to do? Rush off to the nearest photographer? Oh, no, no... I think not. Instead, I broke out the tripod and spent thirty minutes dashing between the camera and my 'mark.' I learned a few things while we were out:

1. I need a remote-thingy for my camera.
2. It's much more difficult to get baby to smile and look at the camera when you're not behind said camera.
3. Tripods rock.
4. It was h.o.t. out yesterday!

Because I wouldn't want to overwhelm, I limited myself to posting three pictures. What do you think? Should I scrap the tripod and fork over the cold, hard cash? or would practice make... well... would it do?