Focus On Your Craft!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2008-12-31T11:10:00.002-05:00

One last project to finish out the 2008 craft cycle. For Christmas, I received the awesome knitting book Pretty In Punk. I didn't do much knitting in '08, but now I'm totally inspired!

The hat came together in an instant. It's the "Lucky 13" pattern and marked the first time that I felted a project. I love it! Now if we could just have some wintry weather, I might get a chance to wear it.

From Sewing Project 2008

I love the Union Jack mohawk hat ... but what do you think about using the Norwegian flag instead? That's what I'M talkin' 'bout!!

Have a wonderful 2009!!!

X-mas Gifts 2008!

2008-12-31T11:02:00.002-05:00

Now for the moment you've all been waiting for - the annual holiday craft recap! The anticipation was positively killing you, wasn't it?

Took it much easier this year than last and only made stuff for the niece and nephew. Perhaps I would have been a bit more ambitious, but Rock Band 2 has me on a short leash. I can't decide if that's pathetic or TOTALLY AWESOME. At any rate, here be-eth the gifts:

Graham is 5 and totally into dinosaurs and art. Needless to say, I plan to encourage him in these pursuits. He received a dino art smock to take to Kindergarten on painting days. Found the pattern here.

From Xmas 2008

Keaton is 2-and-a-half and has discovered her inner princess. She received a Cinderella apron and a purple & pink striped scarf. Super soft!

From Xmas 2008

Yeah ... they're kinda too adorable for their own good. :)
Merry Christmas, Zemke family!!!

... And Then Some

2008-11-15T15:23:00.002-05:00

What good is being in a band if you can't make yourself some crazy clothes? While shopping at Jo-Ann today, I came across their "Dark Visions" fabric collection, which seemed absolutely tailor-made for Roxcetera. Here's the palate I chose:

Yeah, it's basically your standard purple sparkle stretch knit, green leopard print chiffon, black crushed stretch velvet and something they called "Caviar Silver Crushed Foil."

(*PUMPED!*)

Oh, Jo-Ann Fabric - is there anything you can't do? Well, besides having enough staff (I've stopped hoping that they might also be knowledgeable), being organized, having prices clearly marked, being well-stocked, and offering the absolute bare minimum of customer service ... beyond that, you're AMAZING!

It's On

2008-10-29T17:36:00.002-04:00

My brand spankin' new Brother 1034D serger arrived yesterday. Check this bad boy out!

Remember how, like, over a month ago I was talking about all those knit clothes I was going to make? Well, buckle up. While I'm at it, I just might *finish* all those hems that look like sh!t on some of my old sewing projects. ROCK!

She's Done It Again!

2008-09-21T15:35:00.002-04:00

That Wendy Mullin! I just finished reading Sew U: Home Stretch and am completely ready to transform my t-shirt drawer. Too bad I hadn't read this book before dropping a good amount of money on vintage patterns. I'm all for the styles of the '60s and '70s, but they're not things I wear every day. T-shirts, sister. That's what I wear every day.

Just like the first Sew U book, this one contains 3 patterns and several ideas for customizing each. I've got so many t-shirts that are too small or too tattered, but are also too sentimental to part with. Now I'm armed with ideas and raw materials. Scissors, here I come!

Even More ROXCETERA!

2008-09-17T10:48:00.002-04:00

This Thursday! September 18th! ROXCETERA, PISTIL and TIN STAR!
CCB Plaza (Downtown) -- 5:30-7:30pm

We were rained-out last time, but it looks like tomorrow's skies will be clear and sunny. We're really excited to be performing with Pistil and Tin Star. Why don't you come on out and enjoy a perfectly beautiful afternoon outdoors ... and get your keister rocked off while you're at it! You know you want to.

Fall Garden

2008-09-13T10:04:00.002-04:00

Yesterday, we embarked on another garden "first" - the fall/winter garden. It's still hard to wrap my Minnesota brain around the fact that green things can grow during the winter, but I'm prepared to give it a shot.

I pulled most of our now-raggedy tomatoes (many of them volunteers from last year) to make room for the fall/winter crop. Our SunGold has seen better days, but that thing refuses to die so I couldn't rip it out. As per usual, I went a little overboard at our friendly, local garden store.

Romaine & red leaf lettuce, spinach, collards & carrots - oh my!

We'd still like to plant some garlic & onions, but will have to wait until the rest of the summer crop fades. I'm double-pumped! Now if I can just make them grow ...

Sex, Drugs, ROXCETERA!

2008-09-05T10:45:00.002-04:00

This Saturday - September 6 - Roxcetera will join the cast of "Sex, Drugs, Rock & Roll" for a special performance at Common Ground Theatre in Durham. The play features several monologues and Roxcetera will perform live throughout the show. It's gonna rock, y'all - and the Indy thinks so, too. Check out the feature in "8 Days A Week!"

Visit the Common Ground website for more details and ticket information. Several other local bands will be featured on subsequent nights, so even if you can't make Roxcetera's show (and you'll be kicking yourselves, fo' sho'), try to support one of the other great local acts!

Join us on Saturday for THE ROCK!

Adios, Perros

2008-08-24T10:28:00.002-04:00

Just saying so might invite a deathly September to my door, but I think the dog days of the NC summer are behind us. Temps have been cooling down into the 60s at night, and highs in the 90s are rarer and rarer. All this translates into a happy Mara - a Mara who suddenly becomes motivated to get back in the garden and get rid of those weeds that flourished in July.

The cucumbers were great while they lasted, and we'll definitely make their trellis a permanent fixture. They succumbed to the high heat - which spells yellowy ultra-bitter cukes - and I ripped them out. Since we have ample growing season yet, I started some new seeds. Good thing, too, because we're on our last jar of this summer's pickles. The best yet!

New cukes, and a second chance at yellow squash

The tomatoes have been a capital-D Disappointment this year. Last year I made tons of sauce, and they kept really well indoors. This year, we're lucky to get one or two ripe ones that haven't split on the vine (I'm lookin' at you, Cherokee Purples!). Then, once we bring them in, they seem to rot overnight. Luckily, the Sun Gold and the volunteer Juliets have ensured our summer isn't salsa-free.

We also planted a second crop of yellow squash and zucchini. Crossing my fingers!

Carmen Peppers! Carmen Peppers! I'll say it again - Carmen Peppers!
Try these bad boys out next summer.

Updates from Flower Land

The moral is: Don't be afraid of and/or Don't forget to fertilize.

Figaro Mix Dahlias
I'm proud of how these rebounded considering deer ate them into oblivion earlier this summer.

I replaced all but the moss roses in this bed with some $0.50 annuals (vinca and dianthus) from Durham Garden Center. And I started fertilizing it. Duh, MT! It's much happier now.

Dianthus have replaced the abysmal blue petunias that I got for this bed. The original vinca and moss roses are now healthy, green and blooming - as opposed to stressed out and yellow.

I love moss roses. Do I ever.

2 Pink Wave replacements - again, $0.50 each - have added lots of life to a formerly dying pot. What the hell was up with those blue petunias I bought? Spindly and didn't respond at all to being pinched back. I'm sure my lack of fertilizing didn't help.

A Friend Visits The Rosemary

Hello, Mr/Ms Praying Mantis!
Is summer over yet?

One Of These Days

2008-08-24T10:10:00.002-04:00

Oh, the skeletons in the closet. The dust bunnies under the bed. Those projects you expected to finish - and by all accounts easily *could* have finished - 4 months ago. These shirts have been hanging in my kitchen/sewing area since May. I was all whipped up in a froth to finish them in one weekend. And then came the last step - sewing on 2 buttons. Have I done it yet? Haaail no.

"Place Button Here." I was actually pleased with how the epaulets turned out, after a less-than successful attempt with my "Janie" shirt.

Part of my less-than-fervent desire to finish these has to stem from the fact that I'm unhappy with their fit. They are based off this pattern (on the right), which I bought way back when - before I learned how to read a pattern.

Once again, sized way too big for the likes of me and I'm not yet adept enough to easily customize the fit. Plus, as much as I like these two colors together, the two fabrics don't mesh very well. the pink is really soft (a light cotton blend), and the turquoise is a stiffer linen-y fabric. So, on the pink shirt especially, the stiff bust-area piece just accentuates the fact that there's nothing happening upstairs. Whaddya gonna do /shrug/ .

I still like these pieces conceptually, and if I ever opened a diner you'd better believe the wait staff would all be wearing these shirts.

Zebrawood Shelf!

2008-08-13T13:24:00.002-04:00

Later this month, Rob and I will celebrate the 2-year anniversary of becoming homeowners. If you think that means that we've completed all those tasks we planned to do before we moved in, you're wrong. If you think that means that we still don't have unpacked boxes, you're wrong again. As is the case, or so we've found, one project typically begets another, and our To Do lists tend only to grow.

When we moved in, we joined the ranks of *those* people who own one of *those* TVs. We initially didn't plan to put anything on the wall behind it, lest we detract from the HD awesomeosity. Over time, we decided that we were ready for something to complement the TV and not take away/distract from it.

Originally, we planned to make a simple canvas out of printed fabric. We liked the pattern in the store, but nixed it when we got home (and it became a curtain - see below). Then we got the idea to make a floating shelf for plants. And just like that, another project was born.

Closeups of the Zebrawood. Handcrafted by Rob!

Finished! We can cross something off the list!

Crazy Sewing Fool

2008-08-12T13:40:00.003-04:00

The hot weather has given me a good opportunity to organize my sewing space and my fabric. I came across this pattern that we had intended to stretch across a frame as a piece of wall art. I ended up not being wild about that idea, but instead decided to make a curtain out of it. It's in our computer room, which is just a big hodge podge of books and National Geographic posters (i.e. absolutely no design aesthetic/defined style). I love it!

In my organizing frenzy, I came across some old pairs of Rob's work jeans that badly needed patching. I have to say that I'm rather proud with the end result. The first project that got me back into sewing last year was attempting to patch these by hand. Conceptually, this job came so much easier to me now. It just made more sense - and that made me feel good.

I'll keep the soapbox-ing short, but I really encourage you all to take a moment to consider the stuff you throw away that could easily be repaired or transformed into something else. Patching pants is NOT rocket science. I'm not saying you need to make haute couture out of it, but maybe a few simple touches will give it another year of life and save you from buying something you don't need. Or send it to me! Free Time is my middle name these days!

Congratulations!

2008-08-12T13:32:00.002-04:00

In the "Better Late Than Never" category, I finally got around to sewing some onesies for friends who recently had babies. Hopefully the little ones haven't gotten too big yet! I recently found out that a few new friends are expecting, too, so I'll definitely have more in the works.

Sewing the onesies was fun, but if you're looking at it from a cost perspective, it's probably better to get one at the mega-store. However, there's something to be said for a custom-made outfit, even for a 6-month old! As another option, you can always take hand-me-downs and sew a cool swatch of fabric or a pirate applique over the glittery "Princess" on the front.

Good Eats

2008-08-12T13:23:00.002-04:00

Even though it's hard for me to be outside this time of the year, I can find ample solace in the delicious food that the garden provides. Our Carmen peppers have been amazing this year. We've even allowed them to go red on the vine, which added additional sweetness. This one starred in a Wheat Berry & Red Lentil salad that I made recently.

Behind the fresh veg is the ice cream maker. I hadn't used this bad boy since college. A recent trip to Rob's grandma's house yielded a gigantic bowl of fresh blueberries (that we picked!). I've frozen a bunch of them for future use and made the rest into blueberry puree. So far we've made two batches of blueberry ice cream, and I'd still like to try the blueberry brulee recipe in Mark Bittman's "How to Cook Everything Vegetarian." Delicious!

Summer Dresses

2008-07-30T15:48:00.002-04:00

Here are the matching mother-daughter dresses I made for my sister-in-law Ayme and niece Keaton! Hopefully they had a great time on their Mississippi River trip!

What to Get For The Zombie-Loving Gardener Who Has Everything

2008-07-19T09:42:00.004-04:00

I have the greatest friends. Truly, truly, truly. Today is my birthday and I received a very unexpected gift from the incomparable Alysha & Cory. My very own, personal Garden Zombie. It's basically the zombie lover's answer to garden gnomes and gazing balls.

I've named him "Bill." Bill's purpose in the undead life is to counterbalance the scary people down the block who have a giant cross in their front yard. As long as I've got Bill watching over my marigolds and lilies, I have no doubt they'll flourish. He's f-ing *loaded* with organic matter, after all.

Next time you're in the neighborhood, c'mon over and say Hi to Bill!

The Garden In July

2008-07-11T11:34:00.003-04:00

We just returned from a week-long trip to Minnesota where the weather was absolutely beautiful. Highs barely in the 80s, cool evenings - a dream! Now we've returned to the amazing humidity of North Carolina in July. Thankfully, we're in the midst of a rainy spell. At least the plants can enjoy it - and maybe they get a laugh out of my afro-like hair.

The lilies have begun to bloom! They make a lovely addition in July - thank you, previous house owners, for planting them!

Thank you for the cannas, too!

The "sink" flower garden - it's a jungle in there! We need to do something about the lamb's ears before they devour everything in their path.

Our hen has its first chick!

Marigolds are totally rockin'.

Butterfly bush in bloom.

The zinnias are unstoppable. To think I almost didn't buy them, and now they're easily my favorite flower (and most prolific AND longest lasting) of the summer.

The dahlias are making a triumphant comeback after being eaten by deer early in the season.

We had some unwelcome visitors while we were away - deer tracks right in the flower bed! Not uncommon, unfortunately. We might have to put some fencing back up as they're eating the tomatoes (something they didn't do last year) as well as the beans.

Carmen peppers (sweet peppers). Trying to let them go red on the vine.

Yep - I think the cucumber trellis was a good idea.

Cherokee purple heirloom tomato

Bring on the juliet tomatoes!! We just got a dehydrator, so my sundried tomato dream will now become a reality.

Our backyard is home to some amazing mushrooms. Check this guy out!

The Backwaits In Action!

2008-07-11T11:23:00.002-04:00

Here are some shots from our recent performances at CCB Plaza and Mark & Sandi's wedding reception. Coming soon to the YouTubes! Cheers!!

CCB Plaza - with The Midnight Gladness band and The Dry Heathens!!
Thanks to Reese & Justin for the pics - you guys rock!

Mark & Sandi's Wedding
(I promise - we'll play "Cruel Summer" next time!)

Acting - Without Multicolor Spandex This Time

2008-06-25T10:35:00.002-04:00

I've been focusing on my craft so much these past 6 weeks it hurts. Between keytars, random sewing projects, and the garden I've been keeping busy. In addition, I've been taking a fantastic acting class at Manbites Dog in Durham. Tonight is our final class, and my partner and I will be performing our scene from The Beauty Queen of Leenane by Matthew McDonagh. We play an Irish mother and daughter and, according to the internetz, we look like this:

So, it's a far cry from the full-body zentai suit that I wore last year for Balzac. Every actor has his/her crutch - perhaps Spandex is mine. At any rate, any interested parties should definitely check out the next performance at Manbites Dog: Goin' A Buffalo, by Ed Bullins. If their last show, the amazing Fistful of Love, was any indication, Goin' A Buffalo should be on your must-see list. Support your local theater! Or "theatre," if you must.

The Backwaits! This Friday!!

2008-06-18T10:16:00.004-04:00

What's that? The Backwaits are playing downtown this Friday? Right by my anatomically correct bronzeness?

That's right, fine friends. Everyone's favorite keytar cover band duo will be helping you beat this heat this Friday at 6pm. Rob and I have been working on what might be our best set list yet. We're playing in conjunction with Durham's Third Friday Art Walk & Culture Crawl, and will be opening for Midnight Gladness and The Dry Heathens!

The Bull's Balls (aka CCB Plaza) will host lots of great local rock this summer. In particular, you won't want to miss

Dom Casual & Shipwrecker - June 26
Fontana & Malt Swagger - July 10
Fire In The Woods, Roxcetera & The Beloved Binge - July 31

C'mon down and check it out!! Durham Rocks!

Pickle Time!

2008-06-18T10:04:00.004-04:00

Used the first batch of pickling cucumbers to make ... well, pickles! What else? We also used our home-grown dill. I'm looking forward to trying lots of recipes in The Complete Book of Year-Round Small-Batch Preserving (x-mas gift from Ayme & Scott!). As the name implies, the recipes are small scale. Since I canned about 10 quarts of pickles that turned out terrible last year, I'm eager to do 3-4 pints of things to find out what I like and what works. For this batch, I used the basic "Favorite Garlic Dills" recipe. I think some Bread & Butters might be next.

Garden 2.0

2008-06-18T09:49:00.002-04:00

June has not been especially kind to the garden. After our leisurely spring, we slammed headfirst into 100+ degree days with no rain. Some of the Garden 1.0 items (lettuce, cabbage, cauliflower, and soon the broccoli) have retired to that great compost bin in the sky. I've been planting lots of green beans and volunteer tomatoes to take their place. Here are the latest pics.

Cabbage harvest!

Zucchini/Squash bed. I'm going to call hubris on my former zucchini/squash posts. For whatever reason, these plants have not been very prolific. Not sure if it's due to lack of pollination, change in location, too hot too quick, or what. Lots of them have been dying on the vine. Disappointing! I played bumblebee over the weekend a pollinated some myself. It seemed to help a bit. Unfortunately, I know we're in a race against time before the squash borer bugs claim these plants for good.

Sungold Tomato - this guy is doing fine. It's over 6 feet tall, and we had our first taste the other day.

Knock on pile of wood, our Carmen pepper plants are thriving. We had lots of problems with our peppers last year due to Japanese beetles and deer. The deterrents seem to be working so far this year!

The cucumbers love the trellis. I heartily recommend growing cucumbers this way.

Won't be long before we'll have some Celebrities.

And I think I can safely say we'll be up to our ears in Juliets. We bought two plants, and have transplanted at least 3 volunteer Juliets from last year. Fine by me - they're great! Hopefully this year I can try making sundrieds out of them.

Stokes Aster. My flowers haven't been thriving like I hoped they would. Again, I'm blaming the intense heat. Luckily we have a long growing season ahead of us.

Summertime Threads

2008-06-03T12:53:00.002-04:00

I hate summer. There's really no sugar-coating it. When it gets hot, all I want to do is stay inside - yet I still feel the need to be productive. Thank goodness for sewing.

Here's the latest from my cache of '70s patterns. These collars are flippin' HUGE. Jeez. The name of this fabric is "Mod Circles." Now I just need a bouffant hairdo, some white boots, and I'll be set like Jell-o.

We were in the midst of a crazy downpour when these photos were taken. This picture cracks me up.

The original pattern (on the right). I decided to go sleeveless - though I do love the sleeves here:

Man About Garden

2008-06-03T12:46:00.002-04:00

The peas are almost as high as Rob's eye!

Eat those aphids, ladybug!

Golden Cauliflower peeks out at us.

Cucumbers are going nuts. Beans keep their distance.

Juliet tomatoes are on their way.

Celebrities, too.

The light is a bit harsh in this photo, but the rhubarb leaves are enormous!

Cauliflower, We Hardly Knew Ye

2008-06-03T12:36:00.002-04:00

When you're ready to categorize your cauliflower harvest as "a big event," maybe it's a sign you should get out more. I'm going to try to take my own advice. Nonetheless, we harvested our first-ever head of cauliflower last night. And, dude! It was, like, totally awesome!

Moments before - resting in its leafy bed.

"OMG - she's got a knife!"

"This lady is sick. Smiling while she's holding my decapitated head!"

Yep. That's some cauliflower, all right.

Since neither Rob nor I particularly *likes* cauliflower, we decided to pickle it. I finagled the pickled veggies recipe from [restaurant name withheld to create intrigue]. Turns out it is super easy. This mix contains cauliflower, carrots & red onion.

Look out cabbage - you're next!!

Early Summer Blossoms

2008-06-03T12:26:00.003-04:00

Summer has officially arrived in NC. The 90-degree temps look like they're here to stay for awhile. Luckily, we have some hot weather loving flowers around the yard. Here are some of the latest blooms.

Magnolia Tree
Rob has decided he doesn't like the Magnolia. I told him he was a boil on the butt of humanity. Then we had a good cry and realized that laughter through tears was our favorite emotion.

Alas, there's not a movie called "Steel Zinnias" that I can quote from for this caption.

Cleome makes up for its thorns and its cat pee scent by producing really funky flowers.

Sugar Snap Peas

Cucumber

I Cannot Tell A Lie - I Canned Some Cherries

2008-05-28T13:52:00.002-04:00

Tuesday was the first summer-like day in NC: hot and humid. What better way to beat the heat than by canning? (*rimshot) Our fabulous neighbors have an incredible cherry tree laden with fruit. Lucky devils that we are, they gave us free reign to pick to our hearts' content. The first project - "Spirited Cherries."

My oh my. That's a lot of cherries.

Welcome back, canning apparatus!!

Cherries going into the boiling sugar/water.

Ahhh... An enormous vat of boiling hot water on an 85 degree, humid day.

Natural born canner.

Bee-you-tiful! Now we have boozy cherries for Manhattans and the like. Next up - sour cherry preserves.

The Harvest Looms

2008-05-28T13:39:00.002-04:00

We've been tapping into the lettuce, chard and broccoli for quite some time now. Now the green beans have entered the picture. Before too long, we'll be in sugar snap, cucumber, and zucchini heaven. Here are some updated pictures!

Yellow Squash - nonstop blooms these days

"Where do baby squashes come from?"

The first SunGold Tomatoes of the year.

The peas have totally shot up the trellis. Note 2nd crop down below. The white dust you see is Dipel - a natural "insecticide" that we use on all our tender-leafed plants. It works really well and is inexpensive and non-toxic.

Cabbages are reaching the "head" state. Maybe later this week!

Cucumber is climbing its trellis like a champ and is currently ablaze in yellow flowers.

Had our first bean harvest last night! Delicious!!

The rhubarb has been *loving* the cool, extended spring we've had. Hopefully it will tough it out when the temps & humidity increase.

Dwarf iris blossom

Harvest time! Chard, broccoli and green beans

Happy Syttende Mai!

2008-05-17T11:46:00.002-04:00

For all you non-Norwegians, Syttende Mai is Norwegian Independence Day. Can't think of a more appropriate backdrop against which to showcase my latest design.

It's another mod from Sew U. I purchased the Janie patch at The Gay Dolphin (greatest store ever?) a few years ago - and it might be the only worthwhile thing ever to come out of Myrtle Beach, SC. What a hole.

But I digress. Decided to go with the contrast thread and the star-shaped buttons. It has a nice baseball-shirt-meets-gas-station-uniform look. And it's a bit of a tribute to one of my favorite Janies of all time. I'm in love with a-rock & roll woah!

"They've Gone To Plaid!"

2008-05-13T11:14:00.002-04:00

Spaceballs, anyone? Nevermind.

Rob liked his birthday shirt so much that I thought he should have another one. I absolutely love this fabric! And, on a personal level, this shirt really marks a step up the sewing growth chart for me. I didn't cut any corners - I finished all the seams (because this type of material will ravel away into nothingness if you don't). It's one of the most professional-looking things I've made and I'm confident that it will hold together after lots of washing/wearing.

Rockin' Some New Duds

2008-05-13T10:35:00.003-04:00

I am notoriously bad about buying clothes. The older I get, the more I absolutely cannot stand shopping. And, as much as I love Built By Wendy, I am not about to drop $160 on a goddamn button-down shirt. Luckily, Wendy stuck a few easy-to-modify patterns in her book Sew U. I can debate the merits of the actual sewing instruction in her book, but it is a great source of inspiration for customizing. As she says, she's mostly there to serve as a "launching pad for your own creativity." Here's what I did with that advice.

"Western" style button-down plaid shirt with contrast yoke.

But wait - there's more!

Yeah. That's right. I sewed myself some jeans. I've had this material since my first trip to JoAnn about a year and a half ago. Red tag denim - some built in Spandex (Denim + Spandex = greatest invention ever??), and a little on the shiny side. Figure I'll beat it up a little and take off some of the sheen. I am really proud of these things! They turned out! And they actually fit!

Well, they'll fit once I take in the waist a bit and get a more permanent closure device. Maybe paper clips are the new safety pins ...

You're welcome.

New Garden Additions

2008-05-13T10:01:00.002-04:00

To paraphrase The A-Team, I love it when hobbies come together. On Friday, I decided to plant some flowers around the front of the house. A known enabler, Rob (aka Murdoch) constructed two planter boxes for me. Here are the Hannibal-approved results.

Vinca, petunias, alyssum & moss roses

Celosia, alyssum, moss roses, zinnia & gazania

Little known fact: Bosco "B.A." ("Bad Attitude") Baracus was an avid collector of Victorian-era seed catalogs.

Impatiens and lobelia for the shady spots
I'll post more pictures later, as the new plantlings are competing with the dying remains of the daffodils. Not exactly a breathtaking picture at this point.

The vegetables have benefited from equal parts spring rain and bright sunny days. Just a few more weeks before they start producing in earnest.

It's starting to sink in how up-to-our-ears in zucchini we're going to be. Already looking up recipes in the canning books. Good thing you can pickle anything!

PEAS

Cauliflower ... any day now (?)

We've harvested the chard a few times. Delicious and colorful!

So, salad tonight then?

Cabbage - personally, I think this is every bit as pretty as a rose.

Broccoli keep on a-comin'.

Cucumber has a firm grip on the trellis. They won't take over the yard this year! And hopefully they won't topple the trellis ...

Beans in bloom

The unsung heroes of the garden - the herbs. The rosemary is flourishing. AND delicious.

Oregano and thyme also survived the winter and seem to be doing rather well. Not pictured: the volunteer mint patch and the new dill plant.

Rob's GOLDEN Birthday

2008-04-30T10:44:00.002-04:00

Rob had his golden birthday yesterday, and as part of his gift I sewed him a shirt. I bought 6 yards of the fabric and decided that I'd make one for myself, too! By a stroke of luck, two of the vintage patterns I bought were the correct size. I had a sewing frenzy last weekend and constructed the his & hers golden birthday outfits.

The inspirado.

The results!
(Would it kill me to smile? Sheesh!)

(OK - that's a *little* better)

"Action Jackson is my naaaaame!"

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!

Growing!

2008-04-30T10:27:00.002-04:00

The garden has begun to make its way from the backyard to the dinner table. The lettuce plants are productive, with broccoli not far behind. The garden extension '08 is complete, and the entire first crop has been planted. I'm psyched! Speaking to my grandma recently, she told me, "We'll keep in touch through our gardens." What a wonderful way to think about it.

Lettuce!

The bush beans are taking off.

Broccoli pre-harvest. New shoots are already coming up.

Chard and cauliflower are truckin' along.

The complete garden: 6 raised beds. Tomatoes in the foreground - Cherokee Purple, Celebrity and Juliet (2 plants each).

Gerberas are blooming! I'm thrilled that they are perennial down here. They bloom all summer.

Snapdragons and pansies that survived the winter! Take that, Minnesota!

The irises are big and beautiful once a year.

Happy Birthday Keaton!!

2008-04-28T10:43:00.002-04:00

My niece Keaton turned 2 over the weekend and I made her a birthday present! This was from a Kwik-Sew pattern that I got at the Scrap Exchange, and also includes options for an elephant or sheep, and a pillow. Got a little kiddo and need a gift idea? This was a snap - and reminded me of my early days of sewing circa 8th grade. Anyone else make the polyester fiber-fill pillow in the shape of a pencil?

The Fuzzy Green Dog (with Murray)

Hippie Shirt Goes To The Bar

2008-04-22T15:59:00.003-04:00

The Hippie Shirt made its debut at the Silent Auction Fund Raiser for Girls Rock NC. It was perfect for the pleasant, breezy night we had.

Button Detail

Showing off my auction prize - the Rock Lobster bag!

I Actually Sewed Something!

2008-04-18T11:13:00.004-04:00

I hadn't been motivated to sew in several months, but had a feeling that the changing weather would inspire a new wardrobe addition. I got into a complete zone on Sunday and sewed 90% of this shirt. From a McCalls pattern I got at the Scrap Exchange for $0.25. Just need to find some buttons (I'm thinking toggles) and it'll be complete!

I definitely know how to slipstitch now. OY!
Yes, yes I know ... I'll save you the trouble:
"GET A JOB, HIPPIE!"

One Month In!

2008-04-18T11:04:00.002-04:00

Things are coming along right nicely in the garden. Here are some of the latest shots.

Little Red Riding Hood tulips, marigolds, and a heliotrope in the prime sink location.

Cauliflower and Chard

Lettuce has already yielded a mixed salad

I spy some broccoli!

Trellis for peas - courtesy of Rob

RHUBARB!!! In the south! If I can make this grow, it will be a life-fulfilling achievement.

2 Week Check-up

2008-04-03T17:06:00.002-04:00

There is noticeable progress in the garden. The lettuce plants are definitely rocking, and the broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower are looking sturdy and strong.

A few of the lettuce plants (ignore weeds pls thx)

Mr. Cauliflower says, "How YOU doin'?"

Seedlings have arrived. As has the rain, thank goodness!

The beans take their sweet time.

Peas (foreground) and pickling cucumbers (background) are getting ready for the trellis.

3 green zucchini and 3 yellow squash. These plants are going to be huge. The nightly low just needs to warm up a bit and these babies can get in the ground.

What Kind Of Flower I Am

2008-04-03T16:46:00.001-04:00

I am a
Snapdragon

What Flower
Are You?

"Mischief is your middle name, but your first is friend. You are quite the prankster that loves to make other people laugh."

And it just so happens to be my favorite flower - how y'like that?

Vegetables, Too!

2008-03-19T21:55:00.003-04:00

We're branching out this year. Last year was our first attempt at a vegetable garden and we had great success with a few tomato plants, cucumbers, zucchini and peppers. Already we've filled 2 beds with new-to-us varieties. We'll be expanding to 6 raised beds this year.

Mixed varieties of lettuce

Broccoli and Cabbage

Swiss Chard and Multi-colored Cauliflower

My flat-leafed parsley survived the winter and it's bushier than ever. Here's hoping the green fence will stave off the deer. They love our backyard.

Garden Time!

2008-03-19T21:49:00.002-04:00

The first blossoms of 2008

Daffodils from Katie

Forsythia and the Kitchen Sink

Really excited to see how these "Little Red Riding Hood" tulips turn out. I'm crazy about the foliage!

Blather, She Wrote

2008-03-19T09:22:00.006-04:00

When the crafter is ready, the project appears. Though I did get inspired to knit myself a replica of The Pinball Wizard hat, as seen in the movie Tommy, this project will not be textile in nature. As a past participant in National Novel Writing Month, I have also made my way onto the mailing list of National Script Writing Month. Hmm. Yes. A script. Why the hell not, right? That's the whole point of this ridiculous blog, isn't it?

I have no plot ideas, character sketches, or plans of any kind. Much like the NaNoWriMo novel that preceded it, I expect this to be 100 pages of absolute write-off-the-top-of-my-head nonsense. Any and all suggestions are welcome. Rob and I have been toying with the idea of a '80s-inspired movie-musical for quite some time now. Maybe it's time for "Rude Attitude" to see the light of day.

+ = ?

The PJs Get Famous

2008-03-05T12:51:00.002-05:00

Thanks go out to the inimitable Alysha for sending along a pic of PJs in action. Recently she spent the weekend at the completely unspoiled former pad of a one Frank A. Sinatra. Here our model, Ant Boy (with co-model BOG), captures the essence of Frankie's poolside loungitude. Fight To Survive meets Ring-A-Ding-Ding!

Back From The Dead

2008-03-05T12:39:00.003-05:00

Greetings, all! I've been suffering a bit from craft hibernation these days. It happens to the best of us. To paraphrase the D yet again, crafting comes from a stillness, a quietude. My stillness and quietude of late tends to be courtesy of the wine fridge rather than the sewing machine. Heart Of Glass had a V-day show. I've done a few sewing repairs - Rob has a pair of "work pants" that are starting to resemble modern art - and a few kitchen triumphs - risotto, anyone? - but that's about it. Spring is springin' on out now, though, so I suspect the temperature shifts will inspire a wardrobe addition or two. Plus, the garden is about to kick it in full effect. Look at that - I just psyched myself up!

"Will Anything Happen"

2008-01-22T10:04:00.000-05:00

Some more footage of the Heart Of Glass performance on 1/4/08. The sound quality is better than the footage on my Picasa page. Plus, we're all up on the YouTubes!

First Project of '08

2008-01-14T10:19:00.000-05:00

After spending Nov-Dec making holiday gifts, I wanted to put myself on the project list in the New Year. Here is my first offering - a wrap shirt designed from a Vogue pattern that I bought for $0.25 at the Scrap Exchange. It came together very easily, despite me not quite understanding the mechanics of the wrap part at first.

"And You Don't Stop"

2008-01-14T09:31:00.000-05:00

Oh, "Rapture." Timeless as ever! Heart Of Glass had two shows this month, and I'm hoping more down the line. My bandmates totally rock! If you missed it (a) I feel sorry for you but (b) you can click on any picture to go to my Picasa album with some video footage of the show at the Local 506. Beware - the sound quality is poor and the volume defaults to 11.

LOCAL 506 - January 4th

Hillsborough St - January 12th

Debbie (aka Abby) rockin' the one-sleeve ensemble

Lefse - The Process (Day Two)

2008-01-11T11:32:00.000-05:00

Step 4. Divide mashed potatoes. Mix in flour.

Step 5. Create little balls of potatoes - these will become the lefse. An ice cream scoop is handy for this.

Mmmm. Potato Ice Cream.
4 cups of potatoes - approximately half of the 5 pounds - yields 20-25 balls.

Step 6. Preheat lefse griddle

Step 7. Using a corrugated rolling pin equipped with a lefse sock, roll out the balls on a very well-floured pastry cloth.

When you can read the writing underneath, it's thin enough.

Step 8. Transfer to griddle using lefse stick.

Step 9. Cook until brown spots begin to form. Flip. Cook other side.

Step 9. Transfer to cooling rack, where your "little helper" will brush off the excess flour.

Step 10. Apply butter & sugar. Roll. Eat.

Lefse - The Process (Day One)

2008-01-11T11:30:00.001-05:00

Step 1. Peel and boil 5 pounds of potatoes. My preference: Kennebecks

Step 2. Mash the potatoes with cream, a good amount of salt, and butter/margarine. Grandma uses Fleischmann's, so I use Fleischmann's.

Step 3. Cool potatoes overnight.

Lefse - The Equipment

2008-01-11T10:55:00.000-05:00

LEFSE GRIDDLE AND POTATOES

Bethany Homes certainly has the market on lefse accessories. Side note: there is a very noticeable difference between MN potatoes and NC potatoes, the latter being much more dry and producing much drier lefse.

Top: Corrugated Lefse Rolling Pin

Below: Lefse Sock (covers rolling pin) and Pastry Cloth - again, note Bethany Homes branding and the inclusion of "lefse" as one of the stipulated items

Left: Lefse Stick - these are always, always, painted in the same manner. If you're Swedish, you have a blue & yellow one. Grandma also used a yardstick with a tapered end.

GRIDDLE

Showing signs of use. I recommend placing a heatproof cutting board underneath, because this baby runs at full power (500 degrees) at all times. Just ask Rob's mom's counter top ...

COOLING RACK AND BRUSH

APRON

The OFFICIAL Barnesville, MN Potato Days Lefse Cook-off Apron. Please try to contain your jealousy.

A Few Words About Lefse

2008-01-09T12:07:00.000-05:00

I wouldn't be able to live with myself if I didn't blog about lefse. For you non-Minnesotans/Norwegians, lefse is traditional Thanksgiving and Holiday fare. I can't call it a "dish" or "dessert" or "bread," because it's none of those things. Some call it a potato tortilla. My grandma calls it a "treat," so that's what I'm going with. A purist applies butter and sugar, rolls it up, and eats it. It also makes a good vehicle for leftover turkey dinner and various jams/fruit butters. The sky is the limit with lefse!

I was fortunate enough to learn how to make lefse from a seasoned pro - my grandma. Every year, around the middle of November, she would retreat to her basement kitchen and make lefse. All day. Where was my grandma when she heard JFK was shot? Making lefse. There was never a Thanksgiving or Christmas without lefse, so much so that I definitely took it for granted. Only after I moved away and contemplated her advancing age, along with the fact that no one else in the family knows how to make it, did I realize that the future of holiday lefse might depend on me.

(Incidentally, in addition to Lefse HQ, Grandma's basement housed her sewing and knitting machines and larder filled with home-canned goods - I'm merely the proverbial apple that fell from her amazing tree.)

Here I am, three years and several batches later. After a few flops early on, MANY 5lb bags of potatoes, and a truckload of flour, I think it does my grandma's recipe justice. Lefse-making has become part of the Christmas Eve tradition with Rob's family, and I think this year's vintage was the best yet! Hmmm ... All this thinking about lefse has made me VERY hungry for it. Perhaps it's not too late for more.

PJ Pants Part 3

2008-01-05T09:49:00.000-05:00

Kathy: harnessing her chi in some comfy cat pants.

Fabric detail - Audrey Hepburn meets cats! I knew this was the right choice.

Light switch cover in action in the "Pepto Lounge," home of The Copycats!

Happy New Year!

2008-01-05T09:46:00.000-05:00

We might have to get dressed up again to recreate the New Year's Eve outfits, as this is the only photographic evidence I have of them. Jackets from goodwill, spiced up with a little flavor from The Prisoner.

Here's to a great 2008! May we all find some time to focus on our respective crafts.

PJ Pants Part 2

2007-12-29T11:53:00.000-05:00

I had decided to make some PJ Pants for Scott this year, but I had no idea how many pairs I would end up making. I found a great pattern and used it over ... and over ... and over. I did embellish them with pockets (not in the pattern). At this point, the Snuggle Flannel aisle of Jo-Ann has become like a second home to me.

For Scott ... Scott who loves Wii Bowling.

(and Wii Tennis)

Lighter weight pair for the summer (and allegedly the pockets stretch almost to the ankles ... hey, I'm learning, here!).

Zig Zag Scarf!

2007-12-29T11:47:00.000-05:00

Why simply knit when you can knit a zig-zag? Found this yarn at Cozy in Durham. It's double-stranded: white wool with a thin black stretchy something. Should help stave off the Minnesota wind chill!

PJ Pants Part 1

2007-12-29T11:44:00.000-05:00

Graham had picked out this material back in September. Unfortunately (for me), he grew so much that they were too small by the time December rolled around. Note to self: always *always* make kids' clothes way bigger than you think they should be!!

Wondering What To Do With Scraps?

2007-12-29T11:36:00.000-05:00

Lightswitch Covers! Why not, right?
If you're friends with me, you run the danger of receiving one of these as a gift.

One Size Fits Most

2007-12-29T11:31:00.000-05:00

Graham sporting his snuggle flannel robe - also a "patternless project." I had so much fun making this!

Keaton was cracking us up!

Napkins!

2007-12-29T11:27:00.000-05:00

I absolutely love making napkins. It's a fun opportunity to play around with different stitches and contrasting thread colors. Plus, it's excellent for beginners because it's relatively simple and hones the basic sewing skills (sewing a straight line and ironing, ironing, ironing). Save a tree! Make yourself some cloth napkins!

For Ayme

Here Beginneth the Holiday Gift Recap!!

2007-12-29T11:16:00.000-05:00

Annual Gift-Giving Time has come and gone, and now I present some of the handicrafts that were tied up with a bow this year.

I'm considering making this thing a permanent part of my wardrobe.

If The Dress Fits ...

2007-12-04T16:20:00.000-05:00

After languishing unfinished on the hanger for a few months, I finally did the piddly hand-sewing around the zipper that was required to finish my fall-inspired dress. The inspiration? Kathy's annual dress-up holiday party. Here we are, modeling our finery!

When Crafts Collide

2007-12-04T16:15:00.000-05:00

Thumbing through Stitch & Bitch recently, I re-remembered their handy dandy sewing pattern for a knitting needle case - something that could be rolled up and tucked away easily. If you're like me, your knitting needles probably reside in a bag (or several different bags) and finding a matching set can be a chore. Problem of the past, dearies! This is a great starter sewing project, too - lots of straight lines, and it can be made with whatever scrap fabric you have laying around.

The One Thing I've Always Wanted To Make

2007-12-04T16:11:00.001-05:00

I'm a person who enjoys total darkness when sleeping. With the impending trans-Pacific flight looming, I knew I had to take protective measures lest I be seated next to one of those perpetual reading light haver-onners. My heartfelt emotion comes across in the fabric design - King Kong fighting a T-Rex. Oh, and it worked like a charm, I might add.

More Pillow Shams!

2007-12-04T16:08:00.001-05:00

The lovely Kathy entrusted me to create some pillow shams for one side of her dual fireplace. The fabric and buttons were all of her choosing, and I think they look perfect! Here they are in situ.

Travel Hiatus

2007-11-15T08:20:00.000-05:00

If you judged by my postings, November has been a slow month. Au contrere, friends! Lots of gifts are in progress, an exciting new cabinet project will begin soon, and there were two things I completed for myself last weekend that I just haven't uploaded. However, now I'm taking a real break. I fly to Auckland, NZ this afternoon to meet up with my globetrotting BFF Katie. I've got her blog linked over here ---> so check in for some amazing kiwi updates!

I'm really excited about all the LOTR reenactment photos I'm going to stage. Katie seems less excited about this. Probably because she knows I'm going to say "What about second breakfast?" about 55 times.

New Year's Eve!

2007-11-05T13:25:00.000-05:00

THIS JUST IN!

The Backwaits (a.k.a. Rob and me) are confirmed as the New Year's Eve talent at The Piedmont! We're already scheming about our look/uniform/costume and set list. You won't want to miss this! If you need us, we will be focusing earnestly on our craft in here:

Trust Me - I've Been Busy

2007-11-05T13:22:00.000-05:00

Focus On Your Craft HQ has been churning out crafts/garments aplenty in recent days & weeks ... but you'll have to wait until after the holidays to see photographic evidence! Can't have any of these from-the-heart gifts being spoiled, now can we? I'd like to make some kind of custom tag for the clothes I'm making - I'm open to suggestions for the name of my burgeoning product line!

Happy Halloween - So Say We All

2007-11-01T09:40:00.000-04:00

The crew of the Battlestar Galactica wishes you a happy Halloween! Rob created the dog tags with some supplies we bought last weekend. There's something to be said for a comfortable costume! The only thing we were missing was a Roomba modded to look like a Cylon Raider. There's always next year. And here's my Rayman Raving Rabbids-inspired jack-o-lantern!

"JoAnn Fabric Is Having A Sale?!"

2007-10-28T10:41:00.000-04:00

Like the sport itself, baseball shirts rock my world. Pink, though? What has gotten into me? Nonetheless, I expect I'll be making many more of these ... even though I already have about 4.

The Loungewear Collection

2007-10-28T10:24:00.000-04:00

Picking the right fabric for pajama pants takes careful consideration. In the era of Fantasy Sports, team allegiances come and go. And who wants to be stuck with last year's trendy flannel? Not these kids! Never fear - Rob's love of Waffle House shines morning, noon, and night. Scattered, smothered and covered - pick it up!!

Confession

2007-10-24T10:39:00.000-04:00

I've let you down, dear readers. Not only did I brick it and NOT enter any jams in the state fair (for no good reason either), I also neglected to make it to the Education Building and check out my would-be competition! My meager excuse is that we were caught in (well, "readily wandered through" might be more apt) a torrential downpour. And we were dismayed that the Pig Races were called off due to rain. And we were likely in a sugar coma. I mean, look at this thing!

Long story short - I paid for my jam apathy. Next year I will make it right.

Crafting For The Future

2007-10-24T09:50:00.000-04:00

NC State Fair: A Crafter's View - October 2007

This year, my faithful fair companion Kathy and I decided to start our day with a spin around the Village Of Yesteryear, rather than speed around it at closing time while all the lawn trolls, wood carvings, and colonial teddy bears are being put away for the night. This year we saw it in its full glory, but with a touch of underlying sadness.

No need to dance around it - The Village Of Yesteryear is in danger of dying out. There are some young-ish (read: middle aged) booth operators, but even that is telling. The "Whippersnappers" are older than my parents. In the not-too-distant future, who is going to wear the bonnet and extol the virtues of braided rag rugs? Wooden spoons? Hell, even corn shuck dolls?

Perhaps I should seek out an apprenticeship with the knitter. Or the rag rug maker. The real money is in goat's milk soap, though. Those people had a line! I wonder if my grandma's lard based unscented soap would draw a similar crowd ... it's WAY more yesteryear than that rose hips-chamomile stuff.

Attitude Sold Separately

2007-10-19T17:27:00.000-04:00

Kathy and I went to the Scrap Exchange last Friday and I first saw these. I thought about them every day, and finally went back to the store on Wednesday and bought them all. I think there are 10 total, almost all are Joan Collins related. Some are bona fide bad ass. Some are just frightening. But they are ALL awesome. I present to you a small selection from McCall's DYNASTY collection.

Only $0.25 - How Can I Resist?

2007-10-19T17:25:00.000-04:00

I'm kind of in love with the white pants, white kerchief outfit.

Pillow Shams!

2007-10-19T17:21:00.001-04:00

These were a cinch. The designs were inspired by a recent trip to my favorite tiki bar. Fun stuff! Now when I sit on the couch I will feel much more inclined to sip a fruity drink out of a giant fishbowl. But only if it's also on fire.

Instant Inspirado

2007-10-13T16:09:00.000-04:00

Found these at a local recycled junk store for $0.25 each. I bought a few patterns there several months ago, before I had actually created anything with my machine. Now, it's like there's a whole new world open to me - combining my favorite things: Craftiness and Thriftiness. Does your mom or grandma still have old patterns laying around? Find them!!

Pet Sweater Update!

2007-10-12T14:32:00.000-04:00

Here is Zoe in all of her glory! Pretty damn cute!

The Yard Is Done!

2007-10-08T15:43:00.000-04:00

After a solid month's worth of weekends, we have completed our front yard renovations! This was basically an unplanned project that we worked on when we felt like it - which sort of makes it more satisfying. It was never a chore or unpleasant. By the way, Rob totally rocks! Always with the good attitude and clever ideas. He has another trick up his sleeve which I'll post when he's finished. Now I guess the only thing that's left to do is to sew our year's worth of decorative, seasonal flags! My Ides Of March flag is going to be the envy of the neighborhood. United Nations Day? Totally covered.

So Far, So Good

2007-10-08T15:41:00.000-04:00

Just need to add the zipper and hem it. Am about to try it on to see if it will even be worth it - but at least it looks nice on the hanger, if nothing else!

Patterns 101

2007-10-05T23:21:00.000-04:00

Dude. Patterns. Totally a foreign language. I can't tell you how many times I have to re-read the steps before I actually move forward. I'm at a good place with this project, though. About to move into uncharted territory with the sleeves ... we shall see ...

My New Favorite Pants

2007-10-05T23:18:00.000-04:00

I really can't get over how comfortable these things are. I made them out of stretchy material, which was the total saving grace. I'd make another pair in a heartbeat!

Sanctioned Pet Attire - Apocalypse Now?

2007-10-01T10:21:00.000-04:00

Never thought I'd see the day where I would put clothes on my pets. Or make clothes for pets. Or get really excited about having done both these things. Here it is. The "Casey's Coat" dog sweater from Stitch N' Bitch Nation, customized for the Philadelphia Eagles-loving Chihuahua, Zoe. Modeled here by the unsuspecting Murray.

Just Like A Classic Car

2007-09-25T15:50:00.001-04:00

Check out this sewing machine! I was commissioned to sew a new blankie for Rob's nephew Graham over the weekend. I knew his mom had a sewing machine, but I didn't know it was one like this! We put our heads together and figured out how everything needed to be set up. Sure enough, it ran like a charm.

Here's Graham with the finished product!
Side note: the Apple Valley Jo-Ann Fabric Etc. puts the Durham one to SHAME! I am so jealous. Clearly Minnesotans take their craftiwork seriously.

The Pants Are Up Now!

2007-09-20T13:15:00.000-04:00

(A little Kochalka humor for the 3 people who will get it.)

I finished my pants! It was the first time I had to install a zipper. Like most of my completed projects, they wouldn't pass Grandma Thompson's scrutiny but they are in a wearable condition. I wore the pants to work and they're totally comfy and the seams don't feel like they're about to bust open. All good things! I'll post some pics after we return from MN this weekend.

Hooray for fall!

Obsession Seems Like Such a Strong Word

2007-09-12T10:54:00.000-04:00

It is 8am. Why do I feel compelled to sew these pockets now?! I have to go to work!

The Wardrobe Grows

2007-09-12T10:48:00.000-04:00

My darling friends who are fans of pink can take this as a personal victory. You've converted me. Well, kinda-sorta. This is the first article of actual pink clothing in my wardrobe. It's made from French terry (very stretchy) and it's perfect for a walk, or going out or whatever! From Sew U. Again, I wimped out on the zipper, but it's terry cloth for cripe's sakes! It's like one step up from a bathrobe!

Good Grief

2007-09-07T16:21:00.000-04:00

I'll be seeing my brother in 2 weeks and told him that I would make a robe for him. He requested a robe that would "impress people." Yikes. Perhaps this will do the trick.

I Might Wear This In Public!

2007-09-06T20:15:00.000-04:00

Hip Hip Hooray! I completed the Built By Wendy shirt pattern (sans sleeves) from Sew U! It's my first fully-completed project using a pattern. Not perfect by any means, but it has definitely given me confidence to keep going. The design is ultra-customizable (that's a word, right?), so I definitely intend to make more.

Labor Day Laborings

2007-09-04T13:48:00.000-04:00

We took advantage of the nice weather over Labor Day weekend and did a bunch of outdoor work. Pulled lots of weeds, hauled away lots of old pine straw, and built some new planter boxes. Gotta say I love having a handy guy around - Rob worked so hard. Power tools!

Front Garden: Before - can't exactly see the rock border, can you?

And After! We found a home for the old cast iron sink from the bathroom.

Side of the deck: Before (with brick "edging")

After!

Back Garden Before (ew!!)

Halfway there!

Once we get some rain I'd like to plant some shrubs and fall flowers. We also have ideas for the front yard. More on that at a later date! Someone alert TLC!

I Will Officially Be an 80-Year-Old Woman If I Do This

2007-08-31T08:10:00.000-04:00

I'm thinking about entering one or two of my jams in the NC State Fair. A blue ribbon nets me a $10 cash prize!! That could subsidize my caramel apple (with nuts) and deep fried Moon Pie. Plus, my blog would have SO much cred! :D

Baby Gifts

2007-08-31T08:06:00.000-04:00

My friend and former co-worker is due to have a baby girl very soon. I had started this hat many months ago, but when I decided to make the outfit I knew I might as well finish the hat, too. Infants are too young to dislike homemade clothes, right?

Our Gas Is SO Classical

2007-08-29T08:17:00.000-04:00

Rockin' out at Bull McCabe's! Allow me to take a moment to say how TOTALLY proud I am of Rob. He singlehandedly set everything up and programmed everything that needed programming - and it was his first time ever playing a rock show! Too awesome! And now he can scratch "Playing 'Classical Gas' solely on synthesizers" off his life list.

Presenting - The Backwaits!

2007-08-29T08:05:00.000-04:00

The Piedmont All-Stars Talent Show was a smashing success! Like most restaurants, The Piedmont is filled with awesome musicians and last night they put together a special showcase for them to strut their stuff. Graciously, they also let Rob and I play. We work there very part-time, as backwaits (i.e. food runners/bussers) on Saturday nights. The name and the modified work uniform were no-brainers.

Music! Tomorrow Night! 8/28!!

2007-08-27T15:48:00.000-04:00

After a long hiatus from the musical arena, I'll be playing tomorrow night with Rob! Other musicians who work at the Piedmont will also be playing - it's at Bull McCabe's (formerly Jo & Joe's) in Durham. 8:30 or so. It's sure to be a good time!

Here's a teaser of something I'll be wearing for the performance. You folks are going to be in for some ROCK. That's all I'm sayin' ...

A-HEM...

2007-08-24T11:52:00.001-04:00

Totally amazed at the fact that I can sew a straight line.

But Wait! There's More!

2007-08-24T11:50:00.000-04:00

Matching separates?! Why not!

Behold!

2007-08-24T11:39:00.000-04:00

I purchased this Halloween fabric on the cheap in January, figuring it would serve as my practice fabric. But then I got to thinking - why not make it the signature pattern of my new HalloWear line? "Fun and functional clothes for those of us who wish it was Halloween EVERY DAY." Let's be honest - fugly patterns worked for Vera Bradley! UGH!!

It All Started Last Friday

2007-08-24T11:31:00.001-04:00

For X-mas '06, I received a sewing machine and two very cool sewing books - Sew U by Wendy Mullin of Built By Wendy fame and Simplicity's Simply The Best Sewing Book. After the initial test run, and a started-but-never-completed attempt at a skirt in January, the machine and books have sat untouched. Last Friday, I picked up the Simplicity book and noticed the "Patternless Project" section. It contained a skirt that had no pleats, no darts, no zipper. None of that intimidating stuff. It is basically a rectangle with some elastic and a hem. I was inspired ...

Endorsed By The King

2007-08-24T10:49:00.000-04:00

Perfect with Peanut Butter-Banana Sandwiches!

Top row: Blueberry-Peach (or is that Blueberry-Rhubarb?), Sparkling Hot Pepper, Cranberry-Hot Pepper, Jalepeno-Mint. Any good ideas for using the Jalepeno-Mint? It's actually quite tasty, but I realize it's an odd combo.