stacey winters

a little procrastination

2012-02-01T22:46:00.000-08:00

In 2012 I have decide to make twelve pies, pies I've never made before, maybe pies made up by me!
So with the last day of January looming over me yesterday I scrambled together a pie. It turned out so delicious that it just might be the best pie I've ever made...which makes me excited for the next 11!

Last Minute Apple Pear Pie

5 pink lady apples
2 asian pears
3/4 cup sugar
1 t cinnamon
1/4 t salt
1 t orange peel zest
juice from 1 lemon
2 T unsalted butter chilled, cut into tiny pieces
1 egg yolk

classic pie crust, I always make Martha's

crumble top, again I used Martha's expertise...I loved the idea of folding up about 2 inches of crust then having crumble in the middle

I prepared the apples and pears as I would for a regular apple pie but cut the pear slices thinner and smaller because I read they may take longer to bake through than apple slices. Stir in lemon juice as needed while cutting to keep the fruit from browning.

Mix together all of the dry ingredients then toss with apples and pears.

Lastly, stir in orange zest. Pile the mixture into the single pie shell, dotting with butter pieces. Mix the egg yolk with 2 T of water and brush onto the pie crust folded up on the edges.

Bake at 375 degrees for 45 minutes. Then sprinkle crumb topping in center and bake for another 30 minutes. You may want to cut a circle out of the middle of a folded piece of foil to lay over the outer crust while it bakes for the additional 30 minutes so you don't overbake your beautiful crust.

Be patient and let it cool for at least six hours before cutting into it!! Enjoy.

Leading up to the pie making day I spent a night in Las Vegas, finally got my slippers that were an exchange from Christmas and backordered (but worth the wait!) and cuddled Hermie a little extra since I was gone for those 38 some hours in Vegas.

1.28 to 2.1
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pssst...

2012-01-27T06:47:00.000-08:00

a couple new garlands in the shop

...and the daffodils are blooming!

1.26 to 1.27

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pop!

2012-01-25T23:07:00.000-08:00

This is brown paper bag popcorn that is super duper easy to make and very delicious.

A friend recently told me about it, and now that I have tried it I've made it for four days straight.

Just put a 1/4 cup of kernels in an opened brown paper bag. Fold and crunch the bag closed at the top, leaving plenty of room for your corn to pop. Lay it sideways in the microwave for 2 minutes on high. Take it out and dress it however you like and EAT!!

Then make some more tomorrow.
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outside my door

2012-01-24T21:11:00.000-08:00

Little everyday beauties that looked even prettier after the rain and in the evening light.

On another pretty note, this morning I read a post on Erin's lovely blog, Reading My Tea Leaves, and thought about it later wishing I could come upon those sparkly steps myself.

1.23 to 1.24

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found

2012-01-22T20:14:00.000-08:00

whiskers...in my bed

a sleeping Tiny Dancer
raindrops

flavored olive oils and balsamics (from Santa Fe, a souvenir that was shipped home)

one snuggled up Hermie and a new favorite Chuao bar (my other favorite is the Firecracker one)

comfort.

It is always nice to go away but even better to come home.

1.19 to 1.22
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enchant me

2012-01-18T23:26:00.000-08:00

a little self reflection

Case and I headed to New Mexico this weekend for work and play. Our first night was in Las Cruces where we stayed with friends and were treated to homemade pizza, games, frozen custard and warm memories. (Thank You Kenneys!!) From there it was off to Santa Fe.

A light drifting of snow welcomed us in Santa Fe. It was perfect sweater big furry coat warm by the fire later weather... which I enjoyed every second of. The shops were abundant with beautiful jewelry, blankets, art and more jewelry. Our bellies were soon full from The Shed and Pasqual's. A little history exploration at the New Mexico History Museum and then crepes and a nap (for me, Case had conference meetings).

As I rode to the airport this morning the sunrise was like no other I have ever seen. One side of the sky was bursting with bright yellows and oranges while the other was glowing a soft pink and lavender. I didn't even take a single photograph, I just took in the beauty and wanted to remember it forever.

So yes, I was easily enchanted by the snow, colors, shapes, people, history, pueblo architecture, food and art all around me in this land just a quick plane ride away.

1.13 to 1.18

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good morning

2012-01-12T19:42:00.000-08:00

muffins

chocolate chip espresso ones

A delicious recipe tucked in the back of a recent Cooking Light. I didn't have plain old coffee granules so I substituted espresso ones and they are (I ate three today) quite good!

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ugh.

2012-01-11T20:59:00.000-08:00

migraine all day...

with this little face, it wasn't so bad

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lately...

2012-01-10T21:02:00.000-08:00

I've been eating berries + freshly picked oranges, reading a new book, drinking salted caramel hot chocolates in my pjs, organizing new ideas for the shop, making a custom onesie for a four day old (only took two tries), finding monkeys in the bed, brushing Ladybug's fluffy fur, running in the morning chill, eating rice noodles, planning 2012, discovering the sweetness of the delicata squash and wanting to stay in bed just a little longer.

How about you?

1.6 to 1.10

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hello

2012-01-05T18:27:00.000-08:00

Resolutions, goals, things to get done, things to feel proud of, places to see, people to love...I'm ready.

Since it is 2012 I thought it'd be fun to have a "twelve" themed goal. I had planned on having more but kept scratching all but one, so this is it and I can't wait to bake all twelve (or more) of 'em!

* bake twelve new pies I've never baked before in 2012 *

Feeling as if I've failed before I've even started by a list of "things to do" for the year I'm just trying out some for the month of January then I'll see what I want to accomplish in February and so on...

* do yoga once a week, bonus if I make time for more

* read a book...I miss all the reading I used to do

* make album of Italy trip from August (oh dear, has it really been that long!)

1.2 to 1.5

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on holiday

2012-01-01T20:32:00.000-08:00

Waking up to a new year this morning did not feel like a new year at all.

I'm not quite ready to cheerfully greet 2012.

Along with all of the wonderfulness of the holiday, and it was amazingly full of family, love, warmth, laughter, pajama days and Disneyland all wrapped up in a bow under twinkly lights...

Our family has lost one kitty, dear Kiki who was nineteen years old and quite the little lady. Then just yesterday we found out heartbreaking news about sweet Wheetie...Mom's love, her orange and white
boy who was dreamed of long before we heard his purr and Mom nuzzled his pink nose.

So 2012 is here, and with quivering hearts we begin.

12.24 to 1.1.12
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pom poms + peppermint

2011-12-23T17:20:00.000-08:00

pom poms for everyone. once you start pompoming you don't want to stop.

peppermint frosted sugar cookies, eaten up while wrapping away... (thank you Carrie!)

12.22 to 12.23
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a taste

2011-12-21T10:01:00.000-08:00

of Italy

Some very good friends are on an airplane right now headed to Italy for Christmas. Before departing on
their holiday adventure they treated us to homemade pizelles, raspberry linzer cookies and hazelnut linzer cookies. Kadee and I will happily be munching away on these as we knit all day long....

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knittin'

2011-12-20T23:38:00.000-08:00

pretty

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monday

2011-12-19T13:57:00.000-08:00

Morning at Mom's...snowmen, squirrels, bulbs and sparkles aplenty!

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lately

2011-12-18T23:01:00.000-08:00

brisk wintery walks in the evenings
cookies baked...and eaten
packages arriving at my doorstep
a swedish gingerbread house was built
ornaments unpacked and put upon the tree
movies enjoyed
sleeping in has been relished
cozy socks fill the laundry
layers of colorful scarves piled up to wear
lists written and checked off
cards still to address
...and the week begins

12.12 to 12.18

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all I want

2011-12-11T11:43:00.000-08:00

cuteness from jbOx

homemade salted caramels (practice run) and easy-to-make-treats that taste super good

something pretty for the tree from Barb at Knack, my new faraway friend
You can enter to win one in The Good Life's Great Ornament Giveaway!

little houses I made a long time ago from a tutorial in a Martha Stewart magazine

for Christmas.

Time.

Hours to lay around watching Elf with my family, eating plain cheese pizza made from Kadee's hands, peeling oranges fresh from the tree, drinking eggnog and enjoying Pam's coconut baby cakes.

Rainy afternoons warmed by the fireplace Dad built, wrapping presents with Mom and watching Elf, again.

One whole evening with nothing else to do but decorate the tree, then fall asleep next to Case with the glow of Christmas lights softly illuminating the night.

Endless days of Sundays when places like the Post Office are closed and everyone knows the day is to rest.

Minutes that seamlessly pass into hours of knitting for no reason than just the satisfaction of the knit-knit-purl-knit-knit-purl.

The time to hibernate with Hermie like a wooly bear and her bear cub, to replenish, find new inspiration and catch up on all the sleep I missed this year.

12.07 to 12.11

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bestest

2011-12-06T23:01:00.000-08:00

Each year a new poster is chosen for this frame, a fresh mantra thanks to The Poster List!

My hard work and late nights were greatly rewarded on Saturday and Sunday at Unique LA.
As you can see I sought out Jambas, pies, green tea and cookies for sustenance. Thank you to everyone who helped me (I owe you!) and everyone who visited my table and purchased items from me. It warms my heart when someone asks if I am the artist, is excited about seeing my work for the first time or tells me they come each year just to seek out my creations. There is something extra special about the Holiday Unique LA, although I'm getting more sleep this week I kinda miss all the late night preparations.

Zzzzzzzzz.....

12.01 to 12.06

'tis the season

2011-11-30T16:32:00.000-08:00

...working away like one of Santa's elves for the big show

Unique LA is this weekend! There will be over 300 vendors selling their Made in America items and food for every single taste bud. I Heart Pies is one of my very favorites, I've been craving a chicken pot pie from them since Spring. I will be at Table 49 with glittered acorns, prints, cards, garlands, jewelry and ornaments.

11.28 to 11.30

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long

2011-11-27T17:18:00.000-08:00

weekend.

A beautiful family photo shoot on Friday and Unique LA preparations the other minutes, hours and days. Hope to see you there! Purchase your tickets early and get in right away to get the goods.

11.25 to 11.27

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so very

2011-11-24T11:40:00.000-08:00

new cards to be added to the shop this weekend

thankful.
today and everyday.

11.22 to 11.24

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november

2011-11-21T23:32:00.000-08:00

beauty

11.19 to 11.21

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new!

2011-11-18T13:47:00.000-08:00

sweet cozy banners in the shop now

The "sleep in" one is my personal favorite, I'll be hanging one for the better part of December.

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november

2011-11-17T21:56:00.000-08:00

chilly bright mornings that go by too fast and an unbelievable amount (for november!) of holiday
commercials to hear and see while I work away on the shop and show preparations...

11.14 to 11.17

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weekend

2011-11-13T20:40:00.000-08:00

A nice surprise for me when I attended the vendor meeting for the upcoming Unique LA holiday show...my new deer cards are featured on the promotional postcard! And that was in addition to being inspired by Sonja's talk and getting a delicious glazed donut while waiting in the lobby of the Grammy museum. If you are in the LA area or within a couple hours driving distance this show is very much worth it. The focus is quality unique handmade in America items! I do most all of my own holiday shopping just at this one event and sometimes you see celebrities, too! Spread the word....

Today Hermie and I snuggled and watched Big and then later E.T. which pretty much made it a perfect day...Hermie snuggles and good movies.

11.12 to 11.13

turnips!

2011-11-11T23:29:00.000-08:00

...they look as if they've been watercolored in shades of fuchsia, almost too pretty to eat

This was my first time growing turnips. I learned that their leaves get very large and even if you think you thinned them out enough early on you may not have. Some had room to grow very big and round but for
the most part they were tiny and all those big leaves shaded the garden bed too much. Onto beets...

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thursday night

2011-11-10T23:13:00.000-08:00

Yes, that's Grace Bonney from Design Sponge!

A few scans of me and Pam at the Smilebooth!

My craft from the night.

Tonight Pam and I went to the Design Sponge event at West Elm. Grace was perfectly adorable from her black heeled booties to her lovely smile...just as you'd expect. I've been a fan of her work for many years, what a treat to get to see her in San Diego on her Design Sponge Book Tour. We made a craft, ate tiny cupcakes, met fellow Design Sponge fans, smiled in the Smilebooth and chatted with Grace while she signed our books.

Going to bed inspired and happy from such a wonderful evening.

...

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home

2011-11-09T09:17:00.000-08:00

Sweet holiday tags for baked goods or any item, I was thinking "from our home to yours."

charming house stamps from Stamps for Life

charcoal, maraschino and peapod twine from The Twinery

For more holiday projects with The Twinery twine + Stamps for Life stamps hop over to Understand Blue
and leave comments along the way to win an Ultimate Color Sampler Pack of twine or 2 stamp sets of your choice. Oh my, November is zooming by fast...

good old fashioned oatmeal from Quaker, maple and brown sugar...yes please

warm tea in the morning, something I don't do often enough but so glad when I do

**Today is the last day to enter my print giveaway over at Knack!! Good luck.**

11.07 to 11.09

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hello

2011-11-06T23:24:00.000-08:00

rainy days.

Visit me over at Knack, a place of frabjous furniture and found goodness to see my guest post with
my favorite photography tips, a photograph giveaway and of course all of Barb's beautiful and inspiring creations. She breathes new life into furniture and wood of all shapes and sizes...I love these new
ornaments that she dreamed up.

11.03 to 11.06

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autumn

2011-11-02T16:26:00.000-07:00

she's a beauty.

Enter Little Gray Pixel's Birthday Bash giveaway...win glittered acorns and holiday cards from my shop!! Details are all right here.

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hip hip

2011-11-01T22:50:00.000-07:00

hooray!

Ladybug took a bath.
A basket of fall veggies (from the grocery store) made me feel like a real gardener.
I made my 600th Etsy sale.

Good times.

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pretty

2011-10-31T18:59:00.000-07:00

creepy.

Happy Halloween to you!

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hoo

2011-10-30T23:34:00.000-07:00

vintage owl bookends and other goodies photographed for Mom's shop...she'll be listing items this week

I found this link among my tweets today, what a beautiful way to anticipate the holiday season...enjoy.

10.29 to 10.30

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yep.

2011-10-28T19:28:00.000-07:00

I'll be sleeping in this puff of cozy flannel goodness tonight.

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pear

2011-10-27T22:33:00.000-07:00

tart.

This was my first experience using phyllo dough. I learned it really does need to thaw properly. My tarts weren't as pretty as the ones featured in my October Cooking Light, but they tasted delicious. I made one change from the recipe, instead of almonds I used toasted pecans. There is still some dough in the freezer
and a mixed bag of two types of wonderful pears...looks like I'll give it another go this weekend.

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for another day

2011-10-26T22:39:00.000-07:00

I am not a furniture refinisher in any way but am so excited about a little table that has been given to me to do what I please. It may have to wait until well after the holiday season, but that's okay, gives me time to think it over and seek inspiration from Barb at knack.

As I was photographing it today I was taken by how beautiful it is in its well-loved state.

In several weeks, after some apple pie and eggnog, after the busy-ness of my shop, photo shoots and shows I will revisit this little beauty and see what happens...

10.25 to 10.26

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found

2011-10-24T22:05:00.000-07:00

fall.

10.20 to 10.24
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new

2011-10-19T22:29:00.000-07:00

shop update through the weekend...
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not homemade

2011-10-18T21:16:00.000-07:00

A little baby bird told me about the salted caramel mocha at Starbucks. I'm a sucker for anything salted caramel. This morning was perfect. Foggy. Chilly. Fall. It was just as good as the baby bird said. The very
last sip is a strong shot of salty chocolate deliciousness. Getting another one tomorrow.

Oh how I have been wanting some pumpkin pie. In my heart I wanted to make one myself but have
not had a moment to do so. Good thing you can get one at the store. It was delicious.

10.17 to 10.18

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perpetual

2011-10-16T22:56:00.000-07:00

motion.

I haven't been away.
I've been right here.
Eating donuts, packing orders, growing beets, listening to Cut Copy, cleaning, sleeping, organizing images, running in mud, making pumpkin pudding, taking photographs, catching up and falling behind.
See you tomorrow.

10.11 to 10.16

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buckle

2011-10-10T18:40:00.000-07:00

blueberries, cinnamon crumbles and juicy nectarines...one of my very favorite bites in the whole world

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mother of mine

2011-10-09T23:09:00.000-07:00

The most important thing this weekend was celebrating Mom's birthday. Celebrating Mom...who takes care of all of us and doesn't ask for anything in return only to delight in seeing us happy. In her sixty two years so far she has finally let us look out for her a bit and doesn't seem to mind having three daughters who act like three mothers sometimes. This year she had quite a scare with her skin cancer and I'm so grateful I got to take her to her appointments and support her when she was frightened by what could go wrong. Luckily it all went right.

Mom is truly my best friend, having a uniquely special relationship with each one of her girls. I can share any secret with her. She knows if I have a headache or if something is wrong within two words of a conversation, this always amazes me. She encourages me to create and continue to grow. I am me because of her.

Mom lets me know every single day how much I am loved and that is a gift I hold tightly to my heart.
Happy Birthday Mom! xo

10.07 to 10.09

the good stuff

2011-10-06T21:31:00.000-07:00

Yesterday.
It was a rainy chocolate chip cookie create art sort of day. I loved it.

Today.
The bulbs from Holland arrived.

Hooray!

10.05 to 10.06

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for joelle

2011-10-04T23:58:00.000-07:00

I've never met Joelle. Someone who loves her very much ordered a custom piece. I heard Joelle is sweet with bright blonde hair just like her mom's, she looks out for her little sister and her heart belongs to the color pink and cute animals. (Plus she has that adorable name!)

I love it when I get the opportunity to freely create a custom piece with a few clues to go by. This is listed in the shop if you'd like a custom necklace with personalized packaging, too.
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sunday to monday

2011-10-03T18:10:00.000-07:00

This little guy planted himself between a brick step and the driveway...he is just too pretty to take away and from the hummingbirds even if we do have to step over him.

A second cup of tea. The first one was forgotten about and got so hot it bubbled right out of the pot all over the stove. Ugh.

10.02 to 10.03
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stolen

2011-10-01T11:58:00.000-07:00

Hermie has taken my devilish rubber duckie for himself, the past few days he has carried it everywhere.
This morning after breakfast he placed it on my side of the bed before tucking himself back in.

And yes, that used to be my sleep mask that Case is wearing.
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grow!

2011-09-30T17:15:00.000-07:00

...and don't get eaten up!!

I've recently taken on guiding elementary school children through the planting of their garden and have successfully planted an array of seeds that should do well during a Southern California fall and winter.

Now that radish sprouts are sprouting my next challenge is to keep pests away without using poisons and
not having to build anything too difficult...if you have any secrets please share!!
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2011-09-29T10:36:00.000-07:00

September has vanished right before my eyes, I hope October takes its time.

9.26 to 9.29

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week's end

2011-09-25T23:05:00.000-07:00

cake toppers in the shop

little bits brought home from a walk

9.24 to 9.25

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celebrate

2011-09-23T23:47:00.000-07:00

The last few days the sky has been painted in streaks of pink before the sun sets and bursts of raindrops have visited throughout the afternoons.

As I was icing Case's birthday cake today I could hear bursts of thunder in the distance. It felt perfect. I couldn't imagine anything else I would rather be doing in that moment.

We saw a quote the other day, "If you love me let me know." I wrote it down, it was so simple and beautiful. We know and I hope we always let each other know. Happy Birthday Case! xo

9.22 to 9.23
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yay!

2011-09-21T19:59:00.000-07:00

new items completed and in progress...

9.20 to 9.21

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two loves

2011-09-19T22:33:00.000-07:00

Instagram + Hermie . . . even better, instagrams of Hermie!

9.18 to 9.19
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home again

2011-09-17T08:48:00.000-07:00

I really can't photograph this praying mantis enough, I think I'm a little obsessed and Hermie is clearly jealous. He was gone from his front door post for several days, then reappeared yesterday with one less limb. This morning I did a little mantis research and learned this is a male and since he has wings already his limb most likely will not grow back. I hope he can survive with just the one!
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bursts

2011-09-16T09:31:00.000-07:00

of color.

{9.15 to 9.16}

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hearts + hermies

2011-09-14T23:45:00.000-07:00

43 years ago today Mom and Dad eloped to North Carolina...so happy they did!

Happy Anniversary!!! love you.

last night watching the season premiere of Parenthood,

I'd like to live in one of the Braverman's homes and eat at a

communal table with my family and twinkly lights above

{9.13 to 9.14}

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riceflourcakes

2011-09-12T16:16:00.000-07:00

oops.

I accidentally used rice flour instead of buckwheat flour in the banana pancakes I made this morning. It
wasn't until the delicate little cakes crumbled when I flipped them that I realized my mistake.

Rather than waste the perfectly sweetened bananas that were already mixed in, I made the next ones smaller for easier flipping and they turned out quite good. The rice flour makes them light and dainty...I just might
do a half and half next time with the buckwheat flour.

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ten years ago

2011-09-11T22:57:00.000-07:00

today and yesterday...

On September 10, 2001 I was at Disneyland with the man I was to marry four years later. Just last night we talked about that last September 10th and how much we appreciate that we spent that last day of innocence at the happiest place on Earth. We had decided to stay over and spend the next morning at Downtown Disney, to soak in more happiness.

On September 11, 2001 we woke up to the news. Case and I packed in shock, ate breakfast at a diner filled with confusion, sadness and fear, drove home to be close to our families and watched as the events unfolded throughout the coming days and weeks.

There will always be a division in our lives...the time before and the time after. It was beautiful to hear the words and and see the images throughout the day today of the loved ones lost and the ones who wake up each day and keep their memories alive. ♥

{9.10 to 9.11}

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friday

2011-09-09T17:43:00.000-07:00

homemade warm puffy salted pretzels

scented pens and pencils, yay!

love.

Have a sweet smelling weekend!

{9.8 to 9.9}
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hello there

2011-09-07T23:20:00.000-07:00

A few days ago one praying mantis moved into the light that illuminates the front door, then yesterday a second one arrived. They move about the fixture throughout the day and if I get close they turn their heads and look right back at me with their bulging curious preying eyes. I love finding both of them when I leave or come home. Possibly if they find mates (as I think these are females) we will have mantis nymphs running around in late spring!

{9.6 to 9.7}
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outside

2011-09-05T14:56:00.000-07:00

Today it rained in spurts, tiny drops and gigantic drops, drops that brought the scent of fall...a chill and a touch of humidity at the same time, drops that tapped through the gutters long after the gray cloud had moved on, drops that spelled out tea and slippers (soon!)...it was an unexpected treat atop the already beautiful weekend.

Amidst the news of hurricanes and the aftermath I felt grateful for the light touch of weather in San Diego.

{9.3 to 9.5}
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oh Ladybug

2011-09-02T08:50:00.000-07:00

How do you say thank you when your Mom stopped by to do a quick errand and ended up cleaning up
celery puke from Ladybug who stole the celery top out of the compost bucket...?

You make Mom the best chocolate chip cookies ever and write a sweet note.

Thank you Mom! Ladybug says she's done with celery. xo
...

found

2011-09-01T07:41:00.000-07:00

my house wrapped up in a blanket of fog, an early morning walk, the tapping of Hermie's feet heading for breakfast, half a banana with peanut butter for me, kitty purrs and fur brushing . . . September

2011-08-31T17:54:00.000-07:00

Working away on new items for the fall season...

{8.29 to 8.30}

summer days

2011-08-28T20:04:00.000-07:00

So fluffy! So very hot. Poor Ladybug. Summer has officially arrived.

Out early this morning with four red balloons and my camera for a sweet family photo shoot...

it overflowed with pure happiness and playfulness despite the heat and a
few grumpy "four and a half year-old" moments.

{8.27 to 8.28}
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so happy

2011-08-26T17:56:00.000-07:00

that minco makes these pretty bracelets and that I have one of my very own and since receiving it from
Mom have worn it every day...xo

and that i love doodle came up with this clever art and now it is hanging in my home, in a room that doesn't need to be mentioned on the blog...ever...ha ha

to do . . .

2011-08-25T23:46:00.000-07:00

. . . paint the front door in sweet tea, you'll love it even if you did only choose the paint for its name

. . . hand wash the polka dots and florals you brought home from Florence

. . . sort supplies, begin all those projects on your list and add the new ideas you've been dreaming up

{8.23 to 8.25}
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hooray!

2011-08-22T19:37:00.000-07:00

I got an iPhone.
Please tell me your favorite apps, right now I only have instagram.

(Thank you Mom + Dad. Not only am I another year older but my whole world was different when I woke up this morning. xo)

...

2011-08-21T17:54:00.000-07:00

...that's me!

tiny stars...

2011-08-20T14:59:00.000-07:00

...a blue balloon, many cupcakes, a sparkling clean car, movie night, pajamas well after noon and my birthday isn't even until tomorrow, yay!

{8.18 to 8.20}
...

xoxo

2011-08-17T21:19:00.000-07:00

Aunt Chris, Uncle Tim, cousins Timmy and Missy 1973

at Campbell's Pottery 2006

Kadee and Aunt Chris on our moving day 1981

Today is my sweet and beautiful Aunt Chris' birthday. Just to hear her voice and giggle makes my heart sing. Her love is generous and warm, if you are lucky enough to be in her life you know you are loved. When we travel to Pennsylvania we sleep in her home and it feels like home. She even has Little Debbies and Hank's peanut butter frozen custard for you if you let her know you are coming for a visit.

Happy Birthday Aunt Chris, I hope you had a wonderful day! I love and miss you oh so very much! xo

steal my sunshine

2011-08-16T19:45:00.000-07:00

When my mom was a little girl growing up in Pennsylvania she would spend many summers in Florida soaking in the sunshine, a lot of sun. As she grew up she didn't seek out the sun, but rather was wary of the harsh rays due to the terrible sunburns she got on her fair skin as a newlywed laying out on her apartment building rooftop watching airplanes fly into the San Diego Airport.

She raised her girls to wear sunscreen and hats. We do. We try. No suntanning around here.

A little while ago a tiny pearly white bump appeared beneath her right eye. The dermatologist identified it as basal cell carcinoma. This type of cancer can grow roots beneath the skin and cause much damage, being so close to her eye it was scary.

After several appointments, one to get the cancer completely removed and to see if it had spread (it had not!) and then to get it stitched up just right so that once the scar healed it wouldn't cause her lower lid to droop.

I am happy to say that today we finally saw the eye that had been hidden beneath a half a potato sized patch and it is bruised from all it has been through, and I could only find one single lower lash left, but there isn't a droop and the doctor said it should continue to heal just fine.

Tears of happiness and relief from her perfectly fine tear duct, too.

She will have to be watchful for more, as will I for my fair skin, blue eyes and light hair.

Funny how much you learn and appreciate about the amazing human body when something like this comes along. How very grateful I was to see both of Mom's eyes looking at me today, I could see that she will rest much easier tonight, the whole family will...we just love her so much. xo

{8.15 to 8.16}
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happiness...

2011-08-14T23:30:00.000-07:00

fresh green beans for dinner from an amazing garden (not mine!)

building lego houses with my nephews

our sixth anniversary

{8.12 to 8.14}
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drinking espressos in...

2011-08-11T15:32:00.000-07:00

Italy is more beautiful and warm and full of art and life than anyone can tell you. From the moment we
flew into Italy I felt as if Case and I had entered a real-life postcard.

The art and churches are plentiful here, we soaked it all in, climbed all the steps and marveled at Michelangelo's David and Botticelli's The Birth of Venus...truly magnificent.

Gelato in every color and flavor was enjoyed daily, one day we had it twice!

the view from Piazzo Michelangelo

sunset and people watching on the Ponte Vecchio

Within Siena's medieval walls is a world of tiny passageways, brickwork, pizza with french fries on top, history, contrada pride, leather wallets, ricciarelli cookies and music late into the night.

Oh to have a picture of our faces when we first saw glimpses of Cinque Terre from the train!

custard filled pastries, sunshine, raviolis, wild berries, stairs (lots of 'em), duomos, late night dinners

bruschetta, grape orchards, giant ants, shady woods, tiny bridges, olive oil, breathtaking views...Tuscany

A perfectly lovely day trip to lovely Lucca.

A cappuccino from Il Ciocco before seeing the leaning tower from the train and flying home.

Stones and sea glass collected from the Mediterranean Sea and a leather purse as soft as butter and as pretty on the inside as it is on the outside, little bits of Italy that I took home with me...then I'll know it wasn't only a dream...

{7.24 to 8.11}

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home

2011-08-07T11:16:00.000-07:00

waking up to blueberry pancakes from Case this morning

Home sweet home after two weeks away! I flew for over twelve hours, got my passport stamped and had a different gelato flavor almost everyday, can't wait to share the images...
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lately...

2011-07-23T08:06:00.000-07:00

morning

kitty drawings

my dad

Three days.

Summer lovin'...warm humid morning air, then it feels like summer for real.

Dad's three birthday celebrations... (since we couldn't all get together on one day). This year it was with a mocha ice cream cake, an afternoon walk, Five Guys and lots of love. Dad is truly the very best dad, he could be celebrated every single day. When Dad was little he dreamed of raising baby skunks. I think if he could he would have an owl, skunk, crow and Hermie farm today. xo

Comic Con...it has grown way beyond the comics, we are so lucky to have it in San Diego. I saw stars (yay!) and costumes, parades, art, and people everywhere, too many really...by the end of the day they are just annoying, ha ha.

{7.21 to 7.23}

2011-07-20T17:48:00.000-07:00

hermie monster

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tuesday

2011-07-19T23:11:00.000-07:00

I was invited to display my work at the San Diego Association of Bridal Consultants meeting. Erin Hall
of Hall Events was organizing it and had a great idea to showcase local Etsians.

Amidst the sunshine, lavender and gorgeous surroundings sat my table and wares.

It was a lovely event, I met so many people and am looking forward to working with them on future projects.

It was an early start this morning...a little honey mint freshness for a pick me up and a nap later!
...

sloppy bun

2011-07-18T19:48:00.000-07:00

L O V E

...a little something I ordered from this clever shop, when not in your hair they are cute on your wrist!
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week's end

2011-07-17T20:08:00.000-07:00

morning run, Hermie kisses, family bbq, fresh plums plucked from the tree, sunday walk, new pendants, brushed kitties, world cup!, homegrown tomatoes with dinner, couch lounging, trip plannning, and olive oil rosemary cake...a deliciously relaxing weekend

{7.16 to 7.17}

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pamela stephanie

2011-07-15T23:05:00.000-07:00

german chocolate birthday cake

This morning I took a walk with Dad and Hermie. I asked Dad about today, the day my older sister, the firstborn came into the world...her birthday!

Dad was in the Navy at the time and heard by telegram. He said he was so happy and excited to meet her
and shared his news with his Navy buddies. I like imagining Dad the day he found out he was a father. He would have to wait several months before he met his redheaded sweet perfectly beautiful baby.

Luckily Mom had dear friends to be with her while she settled into being a new mom. Most of Pam's early baby photos have sweet notes and dates written on the back from Mom to Dad. She would take pictures of Pam napping, stretching, napping some more...and send them to Dad.

Thinking about Mom capturing sweet newborn moments and tucking them into envelopes sealed with love makes me happy and teary-eyed at the same time.

Tonight all of us were under one roof, just as we once lived so long ago. I took a few polaroids and as they developed Mom wondered aloud where the time had gone, how did it go by so fast...

I don't know, but it just keeps going faster and faster.
Sometimes I just need it to slow down so I can soak it all in, before it is gone.

Happy Birthday Pam!!! xoxo

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summer days

2011-07-14T18:13:00.000-07:00

a tiny souvenir from a day at the shore

{7.12 to 7.14}
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sending you

2011-07-11T23:33:00.000-07:00

Moonlight Beach

Balboa Park

evening with friends + Balboa Park trails

postcards from home...

...

{7.09 to 7.11}

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happy

2011-07-08T16:47:00.000-07:00

my strawberry popsicle

friday

...

snickerlicious

2011-07-07T19:33:00.000-07:00

little snicker pieces atop caramel ice cream with a graham cracker crust...yum

I found this recipe on the Real Simple website while Googling "snickers ice cream pie." It is very simple as the magazine indicates and a perfectly wonderful treat in the heat...more please.

A few notes: Line up the Snickers pieces so it will slice easily once frozen, I did two layers. Put the ice cream on, then line up pieces of graham cracker to be the bottom. I think chocolate cookies would be good here, too.
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i spy

2011-07-06T22:27:00.000-07:00

new cards and images to be added to the shop soon...

ice cream bars dipped in chocolate and sprinkles

shells, driftwood and views from the shore

open windows and doors...

a hot dog sleeping in the the summer heat, a long weekend, ripe tomatoes, fireworks, family and Jaws.

{7.02 to 7.06}
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field day

2011-07-01T22:00:00.000-07:00

I've been looking for this dreamy place to photograph for quite some time . . . and then there it was.

With three willing participants (their beautiful mom was there, too) we ventured out into the unknown
in our socks, sneakers and boots. No wild beasts or tiny ticks were found (thank goodness) and when
I came home I was literally smiling the whole time as I did the initial browsing of the day's images.

These two cuties have been my subjects for many years...I think the year I officially decided to start my business she was only crawling, I remember because there was an amazing one with her in a purple
sunhat at the beach.

My best friend from fifth grade is the lucky mom, she gets to tuck them in, listen to their secrets, hold frightened hands, remember what they may forget, breathe in their sweetness and see herself in them.
That's my dear friend's smile in the hugging one, I saw it the second I snapped it.

It is an amazing gift to photograph someone's heart...

Whilst in the field I felt inspired to find a big flowery well-loved quilt for shoots, the plaid one I have is
good for fall and winter, but it is time to get a spring summer one.

Which led me to have a few ideas working around quilts...still figuring those out but in the meantime I spent some time with these ones at my Mom's. The square patched one was made by Mom's grandma, some of the pieces are from my mom's childhood clothing.

Bummie...a little cross-eyed and a lot cute, Dad's kitty

This afternoon in the sunlight soaked room she pointed out the purple and blue ones, those were hers.
We remembered all the kitties who've slept on this quilt and how wonderful it is in its tattered condition.

{6.30 to 7.01}
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made

2011-06-29T04:30:00.000-07:00

As part of the Twinery Design Team I get to create simple projects using a rainbow of beautiful twine.
This is a sweet fabric garland that would be perfectly pretty blowing in the summer breeze across a sunny window. The full post on how I made it is over on the The Twinery Blog today!

I'm also featuring a how-to on a mini recipe album that I designed as part of a team of fellow bloggers.
We joined our creative forces to put together tutorials on each of our blogs that will all be put into an
ebook that will be available for purchase at the end of the series. My tutorial for the recipe album with
all the details is here.

Happy Handmaking!

{6.28 to 6.29}
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found

2011-06-27T22:26:00.000-07:00

a splash of pinkish yellowy orange

saltwater, sand and sunshine

matching dresses and giggles

the past

{6.24 to 6.27}
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cheesecake

2011-06-23T21:01:00.000-07:00

from a sweet family owned homemade bakery

. . . for two
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lunchtime

2011-06-22T17:34:00.000-07:00

New prints in the shop today! Super cute photographs of vintage wedding cake toppers that can also be customized for anniversary or wedding gifts.

Enter the code "justmarried" to receive a 15% discount on any item in the shop through Friday, June 24th.
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tea please

2011-06-21T17:25:00.000-07:00

My sister Kadee will be taking her big exam tomorrow. The one a future doctor takes between second and third year, it only determines mostly your whole future as a doctor.

In the family we have each gotten the privilege to assist her with food, cleaning, and kitty entertainment
during her long days of studying. In exchange we are promised personal medical advice and care forever.

My final job for this leg is to pack a healthy filling nontiring energizing lunch to be eaten on a break. Amidst the grapes, carrot, bit 'o honeys, trail mix and chicken and avocado sandwich will be her Tazo Iced Green Tea. It is a new obsession for us. Ever since the lady in front of me at the grocery store raved about it so much so that I had to go back the next day to get some to try for myself...the lady was right.

Tucked inside is a card I made for good luck and love and you are brilliant and you are enough and rest now...all in one. By tomorrow evening she will begin her long weekend of "summer break" before third
year begins on Monday.

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sunshine tuna

2011-06-20T17:36:00.000-07:00

Tuna will fight all the others to get this place in the afternoon.

Things I like that you might like, too...

firstly, a pretty giveaway from Marie Bee
then there is this new tutorial ebook series I'm taking part in
also, an etsy shop with an abundance of style

. . . and tomorrow is the first day of summer!!!

Happy Monday!
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for dad

2011-06-19T14:35:00.000-07:00

an apricot pie made from fresh fallen fruit, sugar, butter and lots of love

Happy Father's Day Dad!! xo
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toppers

2011-06-18T20:47:00.000-07:00

These ones on the right were my favorites, notice the groom has no pants!
...

My mom's friend Elaine collects vintage wedding cake toppers along with vintage wall pockets, pottery and candy jars. Pam and I were treated to apple fritters (thanks to Elaine's sweet husband) and an afternoon of photographs and stories. Looking forward to adding some lovey dovey prints to the shop.
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bittersweet

2011-06-17T12:50:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I watched my nephew walk across the stage with his fellow eighth graders as he went through the ceremony of being promoted to high school. He was fresh faced and just as sweet as ever with newly pierced ears and a shy smile.

He'll be playing at the local fair in a few weeks with his band and practicing lacrosse all summer long. If only he knew how very special this time is between middle school and high school, if only one could capture in a jar the carefreeness and confidence that radiates from a fourteen year old.

There is no hurry to grow up, be patient, savor the comfort of your family and friends. It is a brief moment and you'll have plenty of time to drive, go to college, work and become who you always dreamt you'd be.

chocolate peanut butter surprise cookies

Later I thought my own eighth grade promotion, I remember the adorable blue Guess dress I wore, the carnations each of us received from the principal, how happy I felt and having lunch with my family at a
local Italian restaurant. Oh to have that summer back...three months when time stopped.

{6.16 to 6.17}
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r o a r !

2011-06-15T22:03:00.000-07:00

a dinosaur arrived in the mail today

he was ferocious and bumpy

a prehistoric plant grew from his back...

he jumped out of a cloud from inside a box...packaged with perfect care

Kadee's birthday gift arrived!! These little guys are in such high demand that she had to wait until after the big day and Plaid Pigeon is taking a tiny break to catch up on their monstrous amount of fabulous dinosaur orders.
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made

2011-06-14T16:54:00.000-07:00

new packaging for custom pendants, sending off two sweet ones today...

chocolate chip muffins, little itty bitty chocolate chips that is and lots of 'em

{6.13 to 6.14}
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have yourself . . .

2011-06-12T12:08:00.000-07:00

. . . a lazy little sunday

yawn.

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pam

2011-06-11T20:18:00.000-07:00

My sister Pam asked me to take some portraits for her website and future situations when someone asks
for a photo of her. She is an artist in every single way from hand drawn sketches to web design (<---a site she recently designed) and it was quite nice to have such a relaxing shoot. It doesn't get any easier than your very own sister who photographs beautifully and laughs and chats with you the whole time. I loved it, we could've been there all day. xo
...

achoo

2011-06-10T16:25:00.000-07:00

Jell-O made with orange juice, Case told me that's how his mom used to make it for him. He caught a bug
and stayed home from work so I indulged him with Jell-O, chicken soup and his Star Wars pillowcase.

Remember those old bananas I had? I tried out this Martha recipe in a pie dish instead of a rectangular one,
and renamed it Brown Sugar Banana Cake it just looked and sounded prettier that way.

sneak peek of a project I'm working on with fellow Etsians...

{6.09 to 6.10}
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