Citified Country Girl

Crossroads

2011-09-05T17:18:00.001-07:00

Hi there. It’s been awhile! I’m not going to lie things are a little hectic, I have a lot on my plate right now. I don’t see things straitening out until the holidays.

As for ol’ CCG – I’ve hit a crossroad and it’s probably time to start the next chapter. I contemplated ending my blogging career per say, however its one of my favorite pastimes. Plus I’ve met so many inspiring people around here it would be too hard to leave. But I’m starting to question what this blog is about…my life? I guess you could say it’s a digital diary. However, up until Everett was born I had no problem sharing little pieces of my life through the blogosphere. But now, I’m a mother and my protective instincts have set in.

For now I’ll be lingering in the corner until I get my head back on my shoulders. Enjoy the rest of your summer, I wont be gone for long.

Starting to hit our stride…

2011-08-11T16:00:00.001-07:00

Our life has been completely turned upside down, and it’s just beginning to turn right side up again. Many, many things have been neglected…like this blog for instance. But all for good reason!

Spending every waking and sleeping moment with this little guy has been amazing. I couldn’t begin to describe the feeling I get when he looks up at me.

Andrew and I have been homebodies, barely leaving the house despite a few visits to see our pediatrician. Yet, time feels as if it’s flying by me. Baby Everett has gained almost 3 pounds since birth 3 weeks ago! He’s even started to flash his gummy smile.

I’m feeling almost 100%, which is a huge relief. I was prepared for a natural birth, however I was not prepared to handle the aftermath! It felt like a truck hit me, I was practically bed ridden for two solid weeks.

Like I said, things are gradually starting to turn right side up. A daily schedule is forming (which I’m sure will and have already had a few hiccups), and my body is starting to feel like its self again.

Nevertheless, life has been blissful around here!

Everett

2011-07-22T19:40:00.001-07:00

Everett’s here! 13 days late, but he’s here. Andrew and I are both smitten about our precious little one. Words could not describe the experience or joy that we share.

Right after the birth of our son, Andrew purposed (after 8 years)! There couldn’t have been a more perfect time.

Overdue!

2011-07-05T11:13:00.001-07:00

Just popping in to let everyone know I’m still pregnant, 1 day overdue! Irregular contractions have woken me up the past two mornings but then faded away. Hopefully we’ll have a baby by the end of the week.

Hope you enjoyed your holiday weekend!

Garden Tour

2011-06-28T21:22:00.001-07:00

Hi friends!

We’re on baby count down, only 6 days left until my due date. I wonder if he’ll make an appearance this week! In other news Andrew and I went on a garden tour a few days ago. And to think we did all this walking and no baby, some wives tale that is.

Maple Rock Gardens is a beautiful 30 acre ranch located in Northern California. The homeowners have spent many years landscaping and tending to their lovely garden. Once a year they open their home to the public to view their oasis in the foothills.

I’ll let the pictures tell the story.

Handcrafted birdhouses were sold and proceeds were donated to a local breast cancer foundation.

Miniature trains ran through their landscaped property.

We sipped on freshly squeezed lemonade.

Many pathways lead to hidden meadows of grass and sitting areas.

Pictures simply can’t do this garden its justice, it was far more amazing in person.

Produce and Farming

2011-06-24T14:15:00.001-07:00

If you’ve been following along you’d know Andrew and I eat organic and clean our home using organic homemade products. Along with anything else to keep unwanted, unnecessary chemicals out. We’ve been going strong for about a year now and its been one of the greatest decisions we’ve made.

Our eating and grocery shopping habits went from night to day in just a short period of time. We stopped eating all fast food, we then started reading labels in the grocery store and purchasing grass-feed beef and free range chicken. Over the past 9 months we both have become more knowledgeable in exactly what we’re feeding our bodies.

This summer we started looking outside the grocery store, by starting our own organic garden. Its been difficult due to our lack of space. Majority of our plants are in containers and get limited sunlight a day.

This tomato plant has been our shining star, we started him from seed and he now tops 5 feet tall! Our lemon tree is also thriving along with a bell pepper or two. Before summer is over I’d like to get an herb garden started.

Soon our tomatoes, lemons and herbs will find their way into my kitchen. But its not enough to keep me out of the produce section at the grocery store.

Andrew and I started asking ourselves, how organic is our produce from the grocery store? I don’t know the farmer, plus and many fruits and vegetables are from other countries. We started talking about other options, such as farmers markets and local farmers that practice growing organic fruits and vegetables.

We stumbled upon a farmer named “Organic Jack”, who has a farm less than 30 minutes from our home. Not only is he local but his team efforts with another farmer have the ability to keep their customers away from the super market. If you’ve been to your local grocery store lately and looked at their organic section I’m sure you wouldn’t find a wide selection of organic produce.

Andrew talked to organic Jack over the phone and a few days later we were scheduled for a tour of his farm. Long story short, we signed up with him to have our produce delivered every two weeks.

Monday we received our first produce box of goodies along with an order form for the next box in two weeks.

Last night I made a spinach salad, the same spinach salad I’ve been eating for the past 3 months but last night it was completely different. A whole new taste. That’s how I knew organic produce from the grocery store and organic produce from my farmer are absolutely different.

Its nice to know you’ve shook the hand of your farmer! Next we’d like to find ourselves a local butcher.

Have you stared a garden this summer?

Nesting

2011-06-20T18:04:00.001-07:00

I’m still here, still pregnant and officially on maternity leave as of 3 weeks ago! These past three weeks have gone by so fast, I’ve barely had time to relax. However now that I’m 2 weeks away from my due date I’m ready to enjoy these last few days Andrew and I have together before baby E arrives.

When I saw my midwife last I was already 1 centimeter dilated. I’m looking forward to my water birth if its anything like relaxing in the pool.

In other news, both baby showers are over – Andrew and I were given many many wonderful things from family and friends. Then left to sort through it all, it took us a good week to get things figured out and put away. Now I just have to wash all the little clothes!

It seems like everyday I’m adding more items to our to-do list! I guess you could say I’m already nesting by all the cleaning and organizing I’ve done. However no harsh chemicals here! Being that I’m pregnant Clorox and other cleaning agents have found themselves kicked to the curb. We’ve even had our carpets professionally cleaned with a complete green organic company and its made a world of a difference.

I’ve found that vinegar, lemon juice, baking soda equal the best cleaning solutions for just about anything! Along with a few magic erasers.

Mix 1 part vinegar to 2 parts hot water plus juice of one lemon and your tile floors will look beautiful along with your baseboards.
Equal parts Water and vinegar plus baking soda will clean your sinks, toilets, microwave, and shower. Mix the three ingredients to the same consistency as a thick frosting.
Want a clean cook top? Mix 1 cup baking soda, water, and liquid soap to the consistency of a thick frosting or paste. Scrub with a sponge and rinse with water.

You can find other recipes here.

Yes that’s my hospital/diaper bag that’s semi packed. A few more things need to be added, but its sitting on my dresser ready to roll. That’s also a copy of The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding, I strongly recommend reading this once or twice if your going that route. Although I haven’t been able to use the information I’ve read, it seems very thorough and helpful.

Now I can’t leave you without a baby room update. The dresser is 95% finished and in baby E’s room, Andrew has worked hard sanding and painting.

Here’s a small peek along with the fabric I’m using for the crib skirt. As you can see the dresser did not end up getting painted blue!

B is for Blue Dresser

2011-05-30T04:57:00.001-07:00

Good morning friends, happy Memorial Day! I’m sad to say these past three days haven’t been our traditional Memorial day weekend. Any other year you’d find Andrew and I camping – surrounded by family and friends. However this year I’m 35 weeks pregnant and I’m pretty sure my midwife would be upset if she learned I went camping this weekend. Instead we’re going to fire up our barbeque and have burgers and corn on the cobb for dinner!

Other than our low key weekend activities, we have been determined garage sellers and craigslist seekers. I’ve been watching craigslist day in and day out for a new dresser to put in the baby’s room, but nothing really caught my eye.

I found this for $60, all drawers included at a garage sale. The dresser is in really good condition and almost matches our coordinating crib dresser perfectly except the price tag.

After we unloaded our inexpensive dresser I went and looked up this one and saw they’re similar in style. Not that it was my intension!

Although my new found dresser is in excellent condition despite a few dings, I’ve decided to give it a coat of color. I’m a new found member of pinterest, and I’ve been pinning all blue dressers insight.

Unlike the china cabinet I’m on an overly packed schedule to get this dresser done in a week. That’s sanded, primed and painted in 7 days. Wish me luck! Happy Memorial Day.

Scramble

2011-05-19T12:09:00.001-07:00

I love spinach – plain and simple! I’ve had my healthy dose of spinach lately – kind of an odd pregnancy craving you could say. I’ve even started substituting the lettuce on my burger for this leafy green.

However this morning we’re going to talk breakfast!

Happy scrambling!

Shopping Bag.

2011-05-18T02:23:00.001-07:00

Over the past few months my addiction to Etsy has grown. I’m all for supporting small businesses – in hopes one day, when I can start my own people will support me too.

Here’s a look into my shopping bag…

Yellow topaz earrings from Pretty Petal. Purchased these pretty earrings for a wedding next month!

Antique fishing lures from Vickie's Beach House. These are for the baby’s room, that’s still a work in progress. However maternity leave has been confirmed to start next month, so maybe I’ll get a start on my to-do list.

Vintage cast iron brackets from Assemblage. Yet another project on my to-do list, soon these vintage brackets will be used to support a shelf in my living room.

So what’s in your shopping bag?

Hanging Art–Baby Mobiles

2011-04-29T23:05:00.001-07:00

Hi friends. As these last few weeks of my pregnancy come to a close my mind is consumed by everything baby and preparing our nest for this life changing adventure. So please bare with me as this blog takes a turn for everything baby related.

I’m gradually getting the baby room started (I wish I could say I’m gradually getting the baby room finished, but it’s just not the case). When I first started planning the baby’s room I was anti-mobile. Until recently, when I started looking on Etsy and other boutique baby stores. I just fell in love with the unique handmade “hanging art.”

1 : 2 : 3 : 4

So far I’ve gathered fabric in coordinating colors and figured out a general concept, now I just need to find the time to put everything together. Pictures of the mobile soon, enjoy your weekend!

These Last Few Weeks

2011-04-11T04:49:00.001-07:00

I’ve made it to my third trimester, 28 weeks today!

Boy oh boy has this little guy been growing fast these last few weeks. I have heartburn to show for it along with restless nights. However I found some dream cream at a local maternity boutique, mambino organic belly butter and it’s heaven. The cream hydrates my growing belly perfectly and it doesn’t leave an oily residue, plus the lavender and orange scent is wonderful. I definitely recommend the mambino skin care line to any momma’s to be.

Andrew and I have been on the fence about a birthing center and a hospital throughout my entire pregnancy, and I’m happy to report we’re staying with the hospital. The hospital we chose has midwives, which is something I strongly wanted along with a natural birth experience. Plus they have birthing tubs, from what I hear water is like a natural epidural.

Well that’s my baby update! I’m working on a few projects for baby and some changes around the house, I can’t wait to share them with you. Enjoy your week!

The Best Pizza I’ve Ever Had

2011-04-06T10:20:00.001-07:00

And it came from my kitchen!

You could say I’m a picky pizza eater. Very rarely I’ll make a pizza at home because it seems I can never mask the talents of pizza pro’s. Until I decided to try making a pizza with white sauce and using fresh dough from Nugget Market. I’m happy to say my local pizza joint on the corner just lost their most loyal customer.

White Pizza

Pizza:
Sweet or spicy Italian sausage, uncooked
Baby portabella mushrooms, sliced
Sliced black olives
Mozzarella cheese
Green onion, chopped
Fresh basil, finally sliced
Italian seasoning
Freshly made pizza dough

Garlic White Sauce:
4 garlic cloves, pressed
1 tablespoon butter
½ – ¾ cup heavy whipping cream
1 teaspoon all-purpose flour
¼ cup parmesan cheese, finely grated
Black pepper
Italian seasoning
Salt
Garlic powder

1. Preheat oven to 500°. Insert pizza stone.
2. Remove casings from sausage, add to a skillet over medium heat. With spatula break into small pieces. Once sausage is thoroughly cooked, discard grease and set sausage aside on a plate. In the same skillet sauté sliced mushrooms, over low heat cook until soft.
3. Meanwhile roll out dough on a floured surface, set aside.
4. In a saucepan over low heat combine butter and flour to make a roux. Add cream starting with ½ cup and pressed garlic. Whisk together. Next add black pepper, salt, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder to taste. (Sorry I don’t have exact measurements, gradually add the seasonings until your taste buds are satisfied.) Continue whisking over low heat until all ingredients are combined. Add remaining cream if the sauce becomes too thick.
3. Remove hot pizza stone from oven. Place dough directly onto the stone then ladle white sauce onto the surface. Add ½ of the mozzarella cheese, then sausage, cooked mushrooms, and olives. Then add remaining cheese. Next top with green onion and fresh basil. Sprinkle lightly with Italian seasoning.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted. Allow pizza to cool for 5-8 minutes before cutting.

PSSST! Here are some of my homemade pizza tips and tricks:
1. Use a pizza stone to cook your pizza. Heat the stone inside your oven as it preheats.
2. Mozzarella! Gourmet 100% whole milk mozzarella is the only way to go.
3. If your toppings include mushrooms, try precooking them in a skillet prior to topping on your fresh pizza. Mushrooms hold a lot of moisture! Unless you want a watery soggy pizza, try precooking them first.

So tell me, what are your homemade pizza cooking tips and tricks?

Simple Baby Quilt

2011-03-31T14:13:00.001-07:00

Hey there. I’ve been knee deep in baby stuff, my pile is sure getting bigger and bigger each week. The other day I was in the middle of making this beach inspired baby quilt when I thought, maybe I should take some pictures and share them with you! So here it is.

I think it turned out great. I used Cloud 9 organic cotton, with a layer of cotton batting then enclosed the back with light gray.

After I hemmed the edges I used a fabric marker to make straight lines for quilting.

For the quilting step I used a double needle with white and teal thread.

After a few hours it as finished, I can’t wait to use this quilt for the baby’s first beach trip this summer! Anyways enjoy your day, its actually starting to feel like spring.

Blueberry Bliss

2011-02-15T11:11:00.001-08:00

I love the fact that spring is right around the corner. But I love even more that a majority of our garden is planted and growing like a weed in our little greenhouse, I can’t wait to cook and eat my own veggies and fruit.

Speaking of fruit I have a yummy recipe from Smitten Kitchen.

Blueberry Crumb Bars

1 ½ cups white granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 sticks of cold butter, cubed
1 egg
¼ teaspoon salt
Zest and juice of one large lemon
4 cups of fresh or frozen blueberries (I used frozen)
4 teaspoons of cornstarch

1. Preheat oven to 375°. Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, stir together 1 cup of white sugar, baking powder and flour. Mix the salt and lemon zest in a small bowl then add to the flour mixture. Using a fork or pastry cutter blend in the butter and egg. Dough should be crumbly. Pat half of the dough into the prepared pan.
3. In another bowl combine; sugar, cornstarch (I was out of cornstarch and used flour), and lemon juice. Gently mix in the blueberries. Sprinkle the blueberries evenly over the crust. Crumble remaining dough over the berry layer.
4. Bake in preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until top is slightly golden brown. Cool to room temperature then cover and refrigerate for 1-2 hours before cutting into squares.

Recipe from: Smitten Kitchen

I’ve been eating these for breakfast and dessert with a little vanilla ice cream, they’re so good! Now go make some already.

Spring?

2011-02-12T12:12:00.001-08:00

Hi. I’m popping in for a brief moment to share some Spring wishes. Are all my friends in California loving this warm, almost Spring like weather?

a : b : c : d : e : f : g : h : i : j : k

Anyone else have a few wishes? Enjoy the weather :)

The Nursery Chapter

2011-01-04T16:16:00.001-08:00

Hey there. Happy New Year!

While I had a moment I wanted to share my nursery idea’s with you. The sex is unknown, but I’ve been working hard designing some nursery boards for both a boy and a girl.

So here’s a sneak peek of the fabric’s.

Here is a girls fabric board. Clockwise from the top left: P. Kaufmann Hip Dove, Fretwork Aqua, Jefferson Sky Blue, and Soiree Leaf.

Girl board number 2. Clockwise from top left: P. Kaufmann Hip Berry, Abyla Olive, Prissy Rose, and Milano Blush.

And for a boy. Clockwise from top left: Chip Cameo, Jefferson Sky Blue, Bocce Bonfire, and Jefferson Antique White.

Still a work in progress but I’m happy with how they’re all turning out. However I’m leaning toward the blue girls room rather than the traditional pink more and more. But we’ll see!

We won’t find out the sex until February. But I am happy to say we found a doctor/midwife we like (finally!) It’s a drive to the hospital and for check ups, but well worth it.

Have a great day!

Hello?

2010-12-23T11:13:00.001-08:00

I’m out from under my rock! Are you still reading?

These past three months I’ve gone from shocked, scared, stressed to excited…and I’m finally ready to share what has been going on.

I’m pregnant!

We had a chance to see our baby for the first time yesterday! The ultrasound was amazing, he or she was moving all over the place. Grabbing their legs and playing with their hands.

Oh and get this…my due date is July 4th. Before my visit yesterday I was under the impression I wasn’t be due until the later part of July even early August. It was shocking to see that I’m further along than I thought because I haven’t gained much weight. I was waiting for the doctor to say “oh you’ve gained 10 lbs” by how hungry I’ve been these last couple of weeks. I can even out eat Andrew at the dinner table. But you didn’t hear that from me.

I hope everyone enjoys their Christmas, I can’t believe its already here.

PS. I promise, promise to try and post more.

Organic – Plain and Simple

2010-11-16T06:01:00.001-08:00

Good morning! Miss me?

See anything in common here? Let me clue you in…everything is organic. For the past two months I’ve been eating organically. And I do have to say I’m very proud of myself. Have you ever considered eating strictly organic food? Sometimes I slip, but for the most part I stick to my plan.

I was hooked after I watched a documentary called food inc. It completely changed me and how I view food.

Many people ask me if my groceries are outrageously expensive, but I have yet to notice a big difference. Do you know how hard it is to find a restaurant that’s organic? Pretty much our eating out days are obsolete, except for rare occasions. So I save money there. I’m no longer buying processed foods, everything is usually fresh produce, grains, or dairy. The only place I splurge is meat! Grass fed beef and free range chicken are expensive but well worth the price.

Have you ever done something completely drastic in your life and thought, ‘how can I ever go back?’.

Enjoy your Tuesday folks!

Winner, Winner!

2010-11-08T16:17:00.001-08:00

Congratulations to…

Lex Loci Lori

Lori, you’re the winner of the pillow giveaway. Yippy! Please contact me by email with your address information.

Have a lovely week!

Friday.

2010-11-05T15:44:00.001-07:00

Hi. I’m alive! I’ve been busy the past week relaxing. Darn, I’m caught! I have a good reason, I’ve been enjoying this fall weather and I hope you have too!

Also, I have a little reminder. Today is the last day for the pillow giveaway. See you Monday for the results.

Enjoy your weekend!

Halloweekend

2010-10-29T14:35:00.001-07:00

Have a great Halloween and a spooktacular weekend! Don’t forget about the giveaway, ends November 5th.

Soup

2010-10-25T05:03:00.001-07:00

Mornin’. How was your weekend? The weather was dark and rainy all three days, I didn’t leave the house once. It felt good to lounge around in my PJ’s all weekend, another reason why I love the rain.

Yesterday was a much needed day for a warm bowl of soup. Using ingredients on hand I whipped up a simple but satisfying bowl of goodness.

There are so many possibilities; add zucchini, peas, squash, even substitute the pasta for rice or barley…below is my exact recipe.

Vegetable Soup with Orzo Pasta
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 medium white onion, chopped
1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
2 celery stocks, diced
5 baby portabella mushrooms, chopped
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ cup basil leaves, chopped
¼ cup Italian parsley, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14 ounces) Italian style diced tomatoes
1 cup pinto grigio
10 cups chicken stock
¾ of a pound of orzo
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper
Fresh grated parmesan cheese
Croutons

1. In a large stock pot heat olive oil then add; onion, carrot, celery, mushrooms, rosemary, garlic powder, onion powder, basil, parsley and garlic. Cook vegetables until tender approximately 8-10 minutes on medium to low heat, covered.
2. Add tomatoes and their juices along with the white wine. Continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes with lid removed.
3. Stir in chicken stock, orzo and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until orzo is completely cooked. Season with salt and pepper. (Keep extra chicken stock on hand just, you may need to add more broth.)
4. Ladle into bowls, top with croutons and freshly grated parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your Monday.

This recipe has been linked to Funky Junk Interiors Saturday Nite Special

A Poem for Halloween

2010-10-22T14:56:00.001-07:00

Halloween is just around the corner, it crept up on me very fast this year.

We all know the love of chalkboard paint around here is huge (yes I’m speaking for all you ladies). So get your paint cans ready…

I found some scrap sheet metal laying around, trimmed it down to size then spray painted with chalkboard paint. I was worried about my lines not being perfect or some what perfect so I used a ruler and a black sharpie to make lines on the board. The lines turned out well and you hardly notice them.

Haunted House
There’s a house upon the hilltop
We will not go inside
For that is where the witches live,
Where the ghosts and goblins hide
Tonight they have their party
All the lights are burning bright,
But oh we will not go inside
The haunted house tonight
The demons there are whirling
And the spirits swirl about.
They sing their song to Halloween.
“Come join the fun” they shout.
But we do not want to go there
So we run with all our might
And oh we will not go inside
The haunted house tonight.
-Jack Prelutsky

I’m happy with everything that came together even though I wasn’t going for the black and white theme. The night of our Halloween party I’ll use the buffet as a bar…that way our guests can read the poem as their waiting for drinks.

Enjoy your weekend!

This project is linked to: DIY Show Off – Fall Festival, Saturday Nite Special at Funky Junk, and debbiedoos

Fall Pillow [Giveaway]

2010-10-21T21:52:00.001-07:00

Hi there everyone. Guess what? I have a special giveaway, come and enter to win!

Remember my leaf print pillows I recently made for my living room? Well, I have one pillow cover left…and its perfect for a giveaway.

18x18 100% cotton leaf print fabric by Calico Corners.

How to enter:
1. Comment in the section below – one entry
2. Mention the giveaway on Twitter – for a second entry

Entry deadline: November 5th at Midnight. Winner announced: November 8th.

Giveaway restricted to contestants within the USA and Canada only.
This is not a sponsored giveaway.

Good luck!

Fall Favorites – Questions & Answers

2010-10-17T00:26:00.001-07:00

Who doesn’t love this time of year. The weather here is just now starting to feel like fall. I even heard a chance of rain before the weekend is over, how exciting is that?

So tell me, what are your Autumn favorites?
1. Favorite drink of choice?
2. Scent, you know the one you can’t get enough of?
3. Family activity?
4. Most adored holiday?
5. Essential clothing item, the one you can’t leave the house without?
6. Living room must have?
7. Favorite grub, food, or chow?
8. Time of day?

1. Drink: Hot apple cider! Especially when its straight from a local apple orchard. When visiting Apple Hill during the fall months I must stop for a hot cup of cider. Mmm, I can taste it now!

2. Scent: Cinnamon! There’s something about the aroma of cinnamon that makes me feel warm and cozy.

3. Activity: An afternoon at the park with the dogs and my man. I’m a fan of spending the afternoon in the park, bundled up in warm clothes playing fetch with the dogs. I know the dogs love it too, especially when they can run through the leaves and those darn muddy puddles.

4. Holiday: Thanksgiving. Amazing home cooked food with never ending variety of side dishes, and don’t even get me started on the desserts…along with the company of family and friends! What more do you need?

5. Clothing: Cuddly (sometimes oversized) soft sweaters. I can never have enough!

6. Living room: Candles. We unfortunately don’t have a fireplace in our home so candles are a must. I just love the ambience of a wood burning fireplace, however for now candles must do.

7. Food: I’m a devoted soup lover. I enjoy making homemade soup on a regular basis during the fall and winter months. Sometimes I’ll get a wild hair in July!

8. Time: Dusk. The sunsets are truly beautiful this time of year.

Now its your turn, answer the 8 questions in the comment section below!

Halloween Lanterns & Art

2010-10-14T14:15:00.001-07:00

First off, thank you for all the lovely comments about the pillows from last week. Since then I’ve been a busy bee getting this house ready for our Halloween Party.

Halloween is vastly approaching, and I’m scrambling to get the house ready for the Holiday parties, I’ve been a little behind this year!

I made these cheap and easy Halloween lanterns to light up the entrance, but later decided they turned out cute enough to use inside. So I’m sure I’ll make more!

This tin-can lantern project is from Martha Stewart.

They were so fun and simple I used tin-cans from all my canned goods in the pantry! Just wash them and peel the labels off, fill with water and freeze.

Lay the frozen can on a bag of rice, then using a nail and hammer make faces or letters on the side.

Aren’t these little guys cute? I definitely plan to make more and line my walkway with them, they are especially spook-tacular at night when the candle is flickering.

Now did you see that dictionary art hung on my wall? I found free clipart online and printed Halloween inspired pictures onto the dictionary pages.

I bought the frames from the thrift store for a buck, then painted them white!

Alright, I need to get back to cleaning house and decorating! Enjoy your week.

These projects have been linked to: The DIY show off project parade and Saturday Nite Special

Sit, and stay awhile…

2010-10-06T09:32:00.001-07:00

Hi friends! I’m so happy to share these pictures with you today. Actually I’m thrilled, these pillows have been on my mind for months. I was hesitant to start them once the fabric arrived. But, now they’re finished.

However, no tutorial here! I couldn’t have made these without Janell from Isabella and Max Rooms, her tutorials are so helpful and easy to follow.

I even attached a zipper to the three pillows I made, you never know with a man in the house along with three dogs.

The leaf print is Calico Corners – Noisette in Autumn, and the velvet stripe is Myriad in spice.

The porcelain bowl is from Anthropologie, eyeglasses are Fendi.

Those vintage match boxes are another story…they’re from the 1900’s and I have a whole box full of trinkets and history to share on a rainy day.

The corner of my living room, a place to sit and stay awhile.

Our living room is finally coming together…pumpkins just in time for fall, my rustic mirror and the geometric wall.

Have a lovely week.

This project is linked to: Today's Creative Blog, DIY Show Off Fall Festival and Tea Rose Home

Whimsical Mummies

2010-10-04T10:33:00.001-07:00

Ready to get your hands sticky? Its October and I’m ready to pull out my Halloween & Autumn décor along with some crafts.

I tend to like my Halloween and Autumn decor to blend in with my soundings. My living room colors are rust red and blues, I’ll simply use darker jewel tones of blue and orangie reds.

Recently I made these little guys!

These paper mache mummy heads are so simple and cheap to make, as long as you don’t mind getting your fingers a little sticky.

Start by making the paste.

Its only flour and water, mix the two until there's a consistency of pancake batter.

Cut cheese cloth into random strips and lay on the skull. I purchased these premade cardboard heads from the craft store for $2! Generously brush on paste to secure the cheese cloth.

Layer the cheese cloth over and over until the skull is completely covered.

Allow to dry for a few hours.

Remember those candle sticks? You probably can’t tell from the pictures but I painted them again. This time, a darker brownish red, the Tuscan red from the crackle paint was a little off.

These mummy heads are almost done, they just need a whimsical touch.

That’s where glitter comes in!

He’s much happier now!

How do you decorate for Halloween and Autumn?

This project is linked to The DIY Showoff - Project Parade & Thrifty Decor Chick

Room to Inspire Showcase

2010-09-29T12:33:00.001-07:00

Today my lovely rustic starburst mirror is featured over at Room to Inspire.

So hop on over and check it out. While your visiting take a look at Chelsea’s blog, she is so talented and her home is just beautiful.

Thank you Chelsea for featuring my mirror.

Pumpkin & Walnuts

2010-09-27T11:36:00.001-07:00

Who loves pumpkin bread? A slice lightly toasted with butter and a cup of hot tea is the perfect way to start off a fall morning!

Pumpkin Bread with Walnuts
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground ginger
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon baking powder
5 tablespoons of milk or water
½ teaspoon vanilla
½ cup coarsely chopped walnuts
2 eggs
1 cup pumpkin puree
1 1/3 sugar
6 tablespoons butter

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a loaf pan.
2. Whisk together the dry ingredients thoroughly; flour, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and baking powder. In a large bowl combine milk or water and vanilla. In a separate bowl add butter, beat until creamy. Gradually add sugar to the butter and beat until lightened in color, about 3-4 minutes. Then add one egg at a time to the butter mixture. Next add the pumpkin puree.
3. Gradually add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk mixture in 2 parts. Beat on low or stirring with rubber spatula until smooth. Fold in walnuts, scrape the batter into the pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle with extra walnuts and sugar for the top.
4. Place in oven for approximately 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool on wire rack for 5-10 minutes.

Recipe courtesy of: Joy of Cooking

Special Delivery

2010-09-24T10:31:00.001-07:00

Its really here! My fabric from the lovely Calico Corners has arrived.

Noisette in Autumn. I found this fabric 4 months ago and knew right away I had to have it! I was bold for a change and purchased a few yards without taking home a sample. (I was biting my nails the entire time, waiting for the fabric to arrive.)

I do have to say I’m quite happy I trusted myself, the fabric looks perfect in my living room. Now, its time to get started because it has been sitting beside my sewing machine long enough. But I’m terribly nervous to take that first cut. Wish me luck!

Enjoy your weekend.

Hello Autumn

2010-09-22T09:31:00.001-07:00

Its the first day of fall! Isn’t just wonderful? I’m ready for cashmere scarves, warm soup and the cool weather. And…we can’t forget Halloween.

What are you looking forward to this fall?

Taste of Fall

2010-09-20T10:08:00.001-07:00

Good morning! How was your weekend? Ours was perfect, we had our first taste of fall. It rained early morning, just enough to dampen the patio. I love this time of year!

We spent the lovely afternoon in the Apple Hill area.

I even picked up some dried corn stalks, I can’t wait to decorate with these!

A doe was spotted in the apple orchard.

The rest of the day was spent indulging by eating caramel apples and homemade truffles.

Rustic Starburst Mirror

2010-09-15T17:36:00.001-07:00

Hey there. I’ve been working on a project and guess what? Its finished, so I’m here to share.

Remember our camping trip? Well I gathered some twigs and sticks for a rustic starburst mirror that weekend. At the time I was playing the layout of sticks over and over in my head, I gathered all types about 1” to ½” in diameter.

Once I arrived home I scrubbed each stick with soap and water, then lightly sanded with a fine grit sand paper. (My neighbors must really think I’m crazy – who is this girl outside on this nice afternoon scrubbing dirty wood sticks?)

The placement of sticks was a little difficult. A usual starburst mirror has even spears or at least even staggered spears that are identical. I wanted the mirror to be balanced but not perfect.

So I played with sticks for awhile, once they found their happy home I headed craft store.

A round piece of wood, 7” mirror and hanging hardware were on my list.

First I tried gluing then clamping one twig at a time. The glue didn’t dry quick enough for me. So I resulted to hot glue, then using wood glue to secure the twigs and sticks better after the hot glue was dry.

Later I found out you can buy hot glue sticks for wood! Wish I would have known.

Its finished and exactly what I wanted.

Its hung above my couch in the family room. It makes me smile every time I walk into the room, has a project of yours ever made you just grin?

So my next project is also in the family room/living room, it just arrived in the mail! I can’t wait to show you.

Have a lovely afternoon.

This project is linked up to Fresh Coat Friday and Funky Junk Interiors Saturday Nite Special

seven.

2010-09-13T10:02:00.001-07:00

Seven years today. With my high school sweetheart that is!

We celebrated yesterday, with a daytrip to Lake Tahoe.

But, tonight I plan to make a special dinner for us at home. All for my loving high school sweetheart. I love you Andrew.

This Past Weekend

2010-09-07T16:35:00.001-07:00

Guess where my man and I went? Camping, luxury camping that is.

Here is a little glimpse into our labor day weekend.

We walked in the shallow river bed.

Gauge our black lab loves the water, while our Siberian Husky Bodie wouldn’t set a paw even on a damp rock.

Beautiful wild flowers of all kinds surrounded our camp along with ferns. I snipped a few for a project.

We ate yummy food and drank bottles of wine around the camp fire. Yes, I said “bottles”.

Citronella candles were made to keep the mosquito’s away.

After three days our puppy dogs were filthy, and I needed a manicure…so we headed home!

Luxury Camping Check List

2010-09-02T12:37:00.001-07:00

Yes. I said luxury camping, those two words together do exist.

My kind of luxury camping consists of: 3 meals a day along with snacks and wine, a warm comfortable place to sleep (in a tent), water source near by, along with games. Most important, friends and family to share the fun.

Rules of luxury camping: Absolutely, not allowed to pay for a camp site or parking. No off leash doggie rules, running stream/river or lake within a few feet, no water spickets, no porta-potties!

To harsh? Try backpacking.

I’ve put together a luxury camping list for all you campers out there just in time for the Labor day weekend…am I missing anything? Do you have any trips planned?

Camping Check List:
Firewood
Axe
Rake
Shovel
Gasoline
Tent
Sun shade
Sleeping bags
Extra blanket
Pillows
Tarp
Air mattress & pump, cots, or pads
Chairs
Table
Table cloth
Ice chest
Food, snacks, drinks and water
Hammock
Propane
Matches/lighter
Magnesium strip
Cooking stove
Griddle
Ice chest
Frying pan
Pots and pans
Bowls and plates
Water bottle
French press
Cups, mugs, thermos
Can opener
Pet bed
Pet toys

Pet food + food and water bowl
Spatula
Egg holder (highly recommended)
Utensils
Bottle opener
Roasting sticks
Cutting board
Towels
Toilet paper
Sponge
Soap
Trash bags
Batteries
Flashlight
Headlamp
Lantern
Food storage
Sunscreen
Chap stick
First aid kit
Insect Repellant
Bear spray
Mirror
Brush/comb
Map
GPS
Daypacks
Books
Binoculars
Camera
Playing cards
Board games
Fishing pole and tackle box

I’m signing off early to enjoy the weekend. Have a great Labor day!

(Disclaimer: The above “rules” are my own views of luxury camping. Luxury camping can be as glamorous or simple as you like as long as you have great good and laughter.)

Afternoon Snack

2010-09-01T11:34:00.001-07:00

Hungry? I have the most delicious snack you could ever ask for. That is if you love marinated artichokes as much as I do. Its even better than a snack, it could be a delicious appetizer.

If you decide to make this lunch, like me – you may have to double the recipe!

Artichoke-Lemon Pesto with Crostini
1 small jar marinated artichoke hearts, roughly chopped
1-2 teaspoons olive oil
¼ cup Italian parsley, minced
2 cloves of garlic, pressed
1 tablespoon fresh parmesan cheese, grated
Juice of ½ a lemon
1-2 dashes of cayenne red pepper
Salt and pepper
3-4 slices of French bread or baguette

1. In a medium size bowl combine, artichoke hearts, olive oil, parsley, garlic, parmesan cheese, lemon juice, red pepper, salt and pepper. Mix well.
2. Drizzle bread slices with olive oil season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle lightly with parmesan cheese. Broil bread until golden brown.
3. Top golden brown bread with pesto mixture.
Enjoy!

Tuscan Red

2010-08-31T10:00:00.001-07:00

My candle sticks are in a dyer need of a makeover.

I bought them when I moved into my first apartment. I’ve always found a place for them in my previous homes, but I’m growing tired of them. So lets see if some paint can fix the problem, because I’d really like to keep them!

Originally I was going to paint them a pale blue, but decided a nice Tuscan red would look great.

Plus Tuscan and rust red along with blue are the colors that make up my living room redesign.

This rug has been my biggest inspiration, the Greek scroll is now painted on my accent wall and the rust red is being used throughout the room.

I never tried DecoArt crackle paint before, the results turned out ok. I wish it would have cracked a little more but that’s probably my fault because I didn’t buy the special primer.

One Year

2010-08-27T10:22:00.001-07:00

Its really been one year since I started Citified Country Girl. Well, really La Dolce Vita – The Sweet Life then Sarah Kate, Living La Dolce Vita to Citified Country Girl!

A big thanks to my group of readers following me along, I appreciate and love reading all your comments.

I’m ready to see what the next year of blogging will bring me! Have a wonderful weekend.

August Peaches

2010-08-25T09:07:00.001-07:00

I can hardly believe summer is almost over! I do have to say I'm ok with it, the fall and winter months happen to be my favorite time of the year.

So do you have any end of summer plans? I’m thinking end of summer dinner party, I have the perfect dessert. Peach Crostata!

I started making the dough first (in the directions below the it tells you to roll the dough into 1, 12” diameter disk. Instead I cut the dough in half and had two 6-7” diameter disks of pastry, its your choice). Then I mixed the peach mixture. You can’t really go wrong with peaches, sugar, and cinnamon. Yum!

Wrap those peaches up in their little blanket and pop them into the oven!

Less than an hour you’ll have this.

Happy baking!

Peach Crostata
¼ cup granulated sugar
4 teaspoons all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg, or cinnamon
2 cups sliced peaches
Juice from ½ of a fresh lemon
1 tablespoon sliced almonds
Milk
Granulated sugar
Pie crust (see below)

1. Preheat oven to 375°. Line large baking sheet with parchment paper; sprinkle lightly with flour. Prepare pastry for single pie crust or two smaller pie crusts, roll into a circle and set aside.
2. For filling, in a large bowl, stir together ¼ cup sugar, flour, and cinnamon or nutmeg. Add peaches and lemon juice, toss gently to coat. Mound the filling in the center of the pastry, leaving the outer 2 inches uncovered. Fold uncovered pastry over the filling, pleating will be necessary to keep the pastry flat against the fruit.
3. Lightly brush top and sides of pastry with milk. Sprinkle with almonds and additional sugar.
4. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until pastry is golden brown and filling is bubbly. If necessary cover pastry with foil during the last 5 to 10 minutes to prevent overbrowning. Cool on baking rack for 30 minutes.
Serve warm with ice cream.

Pie Crust
1½ cup all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup shortening
2-3 tablespoons cold water

1. Combine the flour and salt in a mixing bowl and toss together. Add the shortening. With your fingertips, 2 knives or a pastry blender, blend the ingredients together, working quickly, until you have a mixture of tiny, irregular flakes and bits about the size of coarse bread crumbs. Sprinkle on the water, 1 tablespoon at a time, stirring gently with a fork after each addition. Add just enough water for the dough to form a rough mass.
2. With floured hands, pat the dough into a smooth disk (or into 2 disks, one just slightly larger than the other, if you are making a double-crust pie). The dough is now ready to use. It is not necessary to refrigerate the dough before rolling out (unless you included some butter), although for convenience it may be covered with plastic wrap and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface (using the larger piece for the bottom of a double-crust pie) until it is about 12 inches in diameter and 1/8 inch thick, or about 2 inches wider than the top of the pie dish. Try to keep the dough as round as possible.
4. Transfer the rolled-out pastry to the pie dish. Pat the pastry in around the edges to fit the shape of the dish. If you are making a double-crust pie, roll out the remaining pastry for the top crust and set it aside on waxed paper.

Recipes from: Better Homes and Gardens and Williams Sonoma

Privacy Please

2010-08-11T10:40:00.001-07:00

Living in the city has it advantages and disadvantages. One of the disadvantages is privacy. Growing up in the country there were no neighbors, therefore no need for window treatments.

Curtains, drapes and blinds are a must in suburbia. So, here is my first simple faux roman shade DIY. I’m starting in the most private place of all - the bathroom.

My fabric was found from the remnants pile at the fabric store. Which is a good place to find fabric for small projects, because the prices are unbeatable.

The slate blue looks great and adds some color to my dark gray powder room. First I cut the fabric and then hemmed the edges all the way around.

Afterwards I taped the fabric to the wall, so I could get an idea of where I wanted it to start and stop on the window.

Next I folded the fabric then pinned it in place. Once both sides were pinned, I sewed a few knots to hold the folds.

I attached the fabric to a small piece of wood with a staple gun, then use a few nails to hold it all in place.

Now I just need some new lighting in this dark little powder room!

This project has been linked to The Shabby Next Frugal Friday & Be Inspired at Room to Inspire

A Peek Inside the China Cabinet

2010-08-03T13:34:00.001-07:00

The china cabinet has happily made it inside the dining room, now its time to fill the inside with china and treasures.

Time to start unpacking, I don’t think my Noritake china has seen the light of day in many many years.

After a few hours or arranging and rearranging, the china is now on display! Anthropologie has some beautiful aqua and teal bowls and plates that I might try to incorporate, and maybe a few vintage trinkets from some local antique stores.

Its getting there, remember what it used to look like? Its about 95% finished just need a light bulb and hardware!

Beach

2010-07-26T10:46:00.001-07:00

I’ve been gone for awhile, enjoying the summer at the beach!

I’ll be back to blogging soon. How are your summer vacations going?

Lamp Redo (Good and Bad)

2010-07-13T16:32:00.001-07:00

A few months ago I bought a lamp at my local thrift store. It was semi livable so I didn’t paint or touch it for months. Until recently!

I’m going to start off with the good and ease into the bad.

I started with the base, primed it then painted a glossy pure white.

The base came out perfect, just how I pictured.

Now on to the shade…

I found this fabric in the remnants section at the fabric store, 2 ½ yards for only 88¢. So far everything is coming together.

I cut the fabric to match the existing shade, and glued it all together. I used a hot glue gun, do not do this. Instead use fabric glue like Janell says.

At this point I was very happy with how the new shade was coming out. So I decided to place it next to the lamp to see how it was all coming together.

Something was just off! Not what I pictured, so I left it for a few hours to see if it would start to grow on me.

It didn’t grow on me, so I ripped it apart. At least I tried to, but that damn hot glue was not on my side.

Plan B) Keep the beautiful white lamp base, remove or try to remove the glued on fabric. Recover the shade again with pure white fabric.

Plan B worked, and will work until I find a new white lamp shade altogether. Once I removed a majority of the first fabric I was wishing I never would have done this. But I wanted this done and over with, so I recovered the shade in plain white linen.

I ended up having to double up the fabric because the lumps from the hot glue gun and old fabric pieces were showing through.

And guess what? You can still see the lumps. The lamp shade is a flop and I wont be doing this anytime real soon.

But I’m going to end this on a positive note and leave you to admire my lovely lamp base!

Have a great week!

Wedding Chicken

2010-07-10T18:01:00.001-07:00

My favorite and very easy chicken recipe. I don’t know what its original name used to be, or if it even had one. Its been known as wedding chicken all my life! My grandma once made this dish for a wedding, totaling over 100 baking dishes…so ever since it’s been known as ‘Wedding Chicken’.

Lets get started!

Don’t skimp on the butter now!

Add the wine, but be sure to save a glass (or two) for you.

The chicken is seasoned and ready for the oven. Oh, and your house will smell wonderful once it starts baking!

Remove after the first hour of baking, marry the potatoes with chicken. Halfway done.

Bake one more hour.

Remove from the oven and enjoy!

Wedding Chicken
1 package each, chicken thighs and drumsticks
2 potatoes diced, red or brown (your choice) with skin on
5 tablespoons (approximately) butter
1 bottle of Chardonnay
1 cup soy sauce
Salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder

1. Heat oven to 350°
2. In a large baking dish (you may need two) place clean washed chicken spaced out. Add slices of butter to each chicken piece then season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Add wine to baking dish until approximately ½” deep, then pour in soy sauce.
4. Cover with tin foil and place in oven for 1 hour.
5. Remove baking dish from oven, discard the foil. Add chunks of potatoes around the chicken. Lower oven temperature to 325°, cook chicken uncovered for 1 additional hour.
6. Remove chicken from the oven, serve hot!

China Cabinet Inspiration

2010-07-06T09:29:00.001-07:00

The journey of the china cabinet has been a long one, and I’m happy to say its almost finished! You can see the progress here and here. My vision of the china cabinet has completely changed since it was purchased off Craigslist many months ago.

Originally I was going to stain the oak a dark ebony, but once I stained the door I didn’t like how it turned out. So I moved on to plan B, and I’ll reveal that plan later.

Now that its about to make a home in my dining room I need to fill it with something, oh and what about hardware?

Somerset Bay

John Jacob Interiors

I feel so inspired! How does your china cabinet look inside, strictly china or do you have other personal artifacts?

I’m also replacing the hardware on my china cabinet I want something fun and unique. I’ve been eyeing Anthropologies collection, along with many others. Its so difficult to choose!

Anthropologie hardware

So what do you think? Have a great week! xo

Love, Grandpa

2010-06-29T14:19:00.001-07:00

I few months ago I had asked my grandfather to paint a picture for my new house. I wanted the painting to be of the countryside, just something I could look at and be reminded where I grew up. After months of sketching, and painting, the piece was finished.

Today, I went to their home to see the painting for the first time since it was a sketch!

Isn’t it just beautiful, my grandpa is truly an amazing artist. I’m glad I inherited his artistic traits.

My grandparents home is filled with his paintings and amazing crafts.

Like this Christmas painting. Every year my grandfather paints a Christmas-like art, then has the painting printed on canvas to go along with his Christmas card for the family. I stole a sneak peak!

These beautiful Birch trees along the hill has been my grandmothers favorite for years. He painted this one in 1977!

Elegant blue and purple flowers in a vase.

Not only does he paint lovely art, but he carves objects out of wood and then paints them. Like this fish!

Aren’t these little wild flowers cute? He painted them with inspiration right from his yard.

I just love the art he painted for me, it reminds me of home and my childhood! Do you have anything in your home that reminds you of your childhood?

The Italian Sandwich

2010-06-25T09:49:00.001-07:00

Yo! You want some meat-a-balls? Your in luck, I’m sharing my Italian families recipe. But shh…don’t tell grandma!

Ok, this is a pretty simple Italian meatball recipe. Plus you’ll have extra sauce and meatballs left over for spaghetti tomorrow night.

Start by chopping and dicing. Have a bowl ready for the meat balls, and a Dutch oven for the sauce.

They’re almost ready to go in their tomato sauce bath.

Pop them in the oven, and in about an hour you’ll have a tasty sandwich.

Italian Meatball Sandwiches
Meatballs:
1 lb ground meat
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
¼ cup fresh parsley, diced or ½ tablespoon dried parsley
1 medium white onion, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
¼ cup fresh parmesan cheese, grated
1 egg
salt & pepper

Sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, diced or ½ tablespoon dried parsley
1 medium white onion, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 (1lb 13oz) can tomato sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (oregano, rosemary, basil)
3-4 shakes of Worcestershire sauce
1 beef bouillon cube
1 cups water
1 bay leaf

White rolls
Swiss cheese, sliced
Cayenne pepper (if desired)

1. Preheat oven to 350°.
2. In a large bowl combine all meatball ingredients. Using your hand mix for 1-2 minutes. Then form round balls, about the size of golf balls. Then set them aside.
3. In a medium size Dutch oven combine all sauce ingredients and stir.
4. Add the meat balls to the sauce, then place in the oven. Cook for 1 ½ hours. Uncovered.
5. Remove pot from the oven. Place a few meat balls on a plate and slice with a sharp knife. Add a spoon full of tomato sauce onto the white roll, then add the slices of meatball. Top with cayenne pepper (if desired) and Swiss cheese. Buon appetito!

Have a great weekend!

182 Geometric Squared

2010-06-22T11:53:00.001-07:00

Finally its finished! I can’t recall how many hours I spent painting this wall, I lost count after 12 hours.

So you want to know how I did it? Are you sure…because I don’t think anyone in their right mind should even try this. Just kidding! I love it (now that its finished).

The geometric square pattern came from my rug. First I sketched out the design on graph paper.

Originally the scale was much smaller, I placed it on the wall and it was too tiny to see what was going on. So I doubled the size.

Once the drawing was what I wanted I took stencil paper I bought at the craft store and laid it on top. Using a very sharp razor blade I cut through the design.

My walls are a light tan color so I wanted the pattern to stick out, but I didn’t want stark white. We had some left over paint when our house was built, so I mixed colors. I mixed 3 parts white and 1 part tan, it was exactly what I wanted…the same tint of tan but in a lighter color.

With the paint mixed I started in the top left corner.

After applying the paint to the stencil, I filled in the gaps with a brush. I found a brush that was the same width of the design, that seemed to help a lot.

The paint dried pretty fast, so I didn’t loose any time waiting for paint to dry. The longest part was filling in the gaps.

Also I learned early on, was to keep the stencil clean. After 10-12 squares I’d soak the stencil in warm water and remove the paint build up. It kept the lines very precise.

182 squares later and I am finished!

I need a little something to hang on the wall now. I was thinking deer antlers or even a long horn, you know to off set the urban wall design with a little country. Any suggestions?

This project is linked up to The DIY Show Off - Project Parade and Tea Rose Home

Iced Tea and Little Ladies

2010-06-15T11:20:00.001-07:00

I’m an iced tea kind of girl! Especially as summer arrives, its my favorite drink on these hot summer days. And its made right on my patio under the warm sun (just like my mom used to make when I was a little girl).

The only problem is this new Lipton “cold brew”. Yea, you have iced tea in a matter of minutes, but what's the fun in that? I want mine to steep in the hot sun all day.

I looked high and low at the grocery store for the original Lipton iced tea bags and found nothing! Regardless of what the directions said, my tea brewed in the sun.

4-5 hours later, I had a cold glass of iced tea waiting for me in my ladybug garden.

Speaking of which, do you have pest control problems in your garden? My garden is infested with those irritating white flies! They’re small little flies that live under your plants leaves and cause problems. Plus they multiply over night!

Andrew and I tried many different pest controls last year, however this year I’m growing herbs and vegetables…so I want to be more organic. That’s where cute little ladybugs come in.

My garden is swarming with them, approximately 1500 little ladies. I picked them up from my local nursery. They’re supposed to eat white flies and many other insects lurking in the garden. I hope they work!

Do you have a cold beverage of choice that you make just for the summer? Or an organic pest control remedy? Please share!

Have a lovely afternoon.

Living Room Redesign – Sneak Peek

2010-06-08T16:50:00.001-07:00

Ready to jump into a living room redesign with me? This is the first of many posts and long nights. I started this morning, my first stop was Calico Corners…my favorite fabric store.

I found two prints I just fell in love with, the leaf pattern is going to be perfect (I think it was made for me).

Currently, I’m painting a geometric pattern on an accent wall. So far I’ve completed a small corner (its taken me all day) I have a feeling this will take me many hours. But, I can’t wait to see the end result.

When the wall is finished I’ll show you how I did it.

Alright, my much needed break is up. Time for more painting.

A Friends & Family Weekend

2010-06-03T09:50:00.001-07:00

I’m kicking off the outdoor edition of Citified Country Girl with the first camping trip of the season. Andrew and I spent this past Memorial day weekend enjoying the outdoors with friends and family. Despite the earlier snow storm in the beginning of the week.

Andrew and I packed his truck to the brim with our camping gear then headed for the mountains.

Fair warning, we are not campsite campers! No offence to anyone that is because camping in a designated campsite is just as much fun and very convenient for many people. But not for us, we like to go off the beaten path…wonder into desolation wilderness.

By midmorning we settled on a sandy beach, feet from an ice cold stream.

The afternoon rolled around, my dad arrived and for some reason he couldn’t decide what side of the beach he wanted to call home.

The remainder of the weekend consisted of digging, chewing, and snacking on food and treats.

And some sleeping too!

How did you spend your extended weekend?

Heaven in a Jar

2010-05-21T16:31:00.001-07:00

Chocolate Crème Brûlée.

This was my first time making crème brûlée, and I’m in love. Sorry Andrew!

Now come on, you don’t have to spend triple the price in a 5-star restaurant for this rich velvety dessert. You’d never imagine simple everyday ingredients combined make this treat!

Start with chocolate.

Mix with heavy cream…

Now add eggs and sugar!

Pour chocolate custard into ramekins. This recipe is perfect for two medium size ramekins or four smaller ones. Place inside a baking dish and add boiling water. Then bake!

The classic crème brûlée calls for a sprinkle of white sugar, however I used brown sugar for a caramel glaze. Usually you would use a normal kitchen torch to heat the sugar, Andrew and I used his “manly” torch from the garage.

It worked just fine and he was much happier that way!

Pretty simple, huh? (Of course I’ll post the exact recipe below.) Just think, this jar of heaven could be waiting for you once you get home from the office or running errands and cleaning house.

Chocolate Crème Brûlée
2 cups heavy cream
3 oz. bittersweet chocolate, chopped
3 egg yolks
6 tbsp. granulated sugar
1 tsp. vanilla extract

1. Preheat oven to 325°, and have a medium size pot of boiling water ready.
2. Heat heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat, just until the sides start to bubble. About 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in chocolate. Mix until chocolate is blended.
3. In a medium bowl, add egg yolks and sugar. Whisk until the mixture is pale yellow and forms thick ribbons, about 5 minutes. Then slowly stir in the chocolate cream and vanilla. Strain through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl.
4. Divide chocolate custard into ramekins and place into a 3-inch deep baking pan. Add the boiling water to fill the pan, about halfway up the sides of the ramekins. Cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set. The center will be soft. Remove ramekins from hot water bath and allow to cool on wire rack until room temperature. Cover with foil and refrigerate minimum of 4 hours.
6. Prior to serving, sprinkle top evenly with brown sugar. Using a kitchen torch, move the flame in small circles over the surface until sugar caramelizes. About 30 seconds and serve immediately.

Recipe from: Joy of Cooking Cook Book

The Little Blue Table

2010-05-17T14:10:00.001-07:00

Not just any blue table, this little blue table changed everything. Well, everything design wise in my living room that is.

I was given this small accent table a few years back, from my “future” mother in-law. I painted it black and added a compass design on the top, and I was satisfied.

Until recently! I got my hands on a bottle of paint stripper and got right to work.

Before you know it, the black paint was gone and the little table was sanded. Oh, how I wish the china cabinet could be this easy!

While at the hardware store looking for paint colors I noticed there is a section of their “oops paint”. I scored a bottle of blue for only $0.50! Then I bought some small wooden appliqués to add on the sides.

Now for the fun part, painting! I didn’t want a solid blue table so I gave it some old world charm.

You probably can’t see the detail in the pictures, but…when I painted the coat of blue I watered down the paint slightly so the wood would show through in some places. I also buffed out the blue when it was still wet with a damp lent free rag.

After the blue was dry I mixed mushroom brown with a translucent faux glaze. Then applied the brown using a drying brushing effect. I wiped the excess with a damp lent free rag.

I’m extremely happy with it. I have so many new idea’s for my living room now…so I’m making a design board to show you soon!

PS. Now I can say I added a colorful piece of furniture to my home, one goal I wanted to complete this year. Yippy!

This project is linked up at Room to Inspire's Be Inspired Link Party and at The DIY Show Off

Spring Soup

2010-05-14T11:27:00.001-07:00

I’ve been going against doctors orders to have my wisdom teeth taken out due to the countless horror stories from friends (thanks guys)!

Until a few days ago, when I had all four yanked out. It was a ~~walk in the park~~ dream in la la land, I can honestly tell you I don’t remember a thing. While I was waking up from the anesthesia, all I was concerned about was wither or not I could eat cupcakes. Or so I was told.

Its been a few days, and no I have not had a single bite of a cupcake. However, before my surgery I made a lentil soup and I wanted to share my recipe.

Lentil Soup
1 package Italian sausage (sweet, mild or spicy)
1 tsp. olive oil
1 cup (medium size) white onion, diced
1 cup parsley, chopped
1 cup carrots, diced
1 cup celery, diced
4 cloves of garlic, minced
½ of (12 oz) jar roasted red bell peppers, roughly chopped
1½ cups green or brown lentils
4 cups water
salt and pepper
2 cans (14 oz.) vegetable broth
1 can (14 oz.) diced tomatoes with garlic & oregano
2 bay leaves

1. Heat large stock pot over medium-low heat, meanwhile remove casings from sausage and add to pot. Once browned add; oil, onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until vegetables are soft, about 10 minutes.
2. Add roasted peppers, lentils, water, salt and pepper, broth, parsley and bay leaves to the meat and vegetables in the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
3. Cook for 1½ to 2 hours or until lentils are soft. Serve with French bread!

Wild Flowers in the Country

2010-05-05T19:31:00.001-07:00

Aren’t the wild flowers just beautiful? My other half, Andrew and I spent a recent spring afternoon at my grandparents secluded haven.

This is the amazing view they have! The beautiful ranch is where I grew up, and a place I will inherit. Its just about the perfect place to have a family.

At the tree line there is a small stream, and just beyond that is the South Fork of the American River, with world renown rapids.

The trail down to the river is about 1 mile, once you see this view at the top if the trail its worth the trek. Driving is also an option, however it was one beautiful spring day! (At the end I wasn’t saying “its a beautiful spring day” more like “its a really hot spring day”.)

Wild flowers at the river bed.

More wild flowers along the trail.

After a hike back up the trail, I was ready to kick my feet up! It had been a long time since I’ve visited the river on foot.

But you know grandparents, and there they were at the door welcoming us once again with cold water and a bowl of ice cream.

Spring in the Sierra

2010-04-22T16:35:00.001-07:00

We had our first spring heat wave, and the city was entirely too warm so we headed east! I’m probably being a little dramatic about the weather, but Andrew and I couldn’t let a beautiful day in the mountains go to waste. (Plus the rain is already back again.)

I was Andrew’s dedicated photographer for the day while he snowboarded.

I submitted this picture to Clif Bar & Company

The snow is beautiful, but I’m ready for the warm summer sunshine. Check back soon because I’m taking a trip home to my roots…the country!

China Cabinet Update

2010-04-14T13:17:00.001-07:00

As you may know I’ve been working on my china cabinet for some time now. This is the biggest re-do I’ve ever attempted (I think) and its taking longer than I expected.

My first attempt was sanding by hand. After one day, I was in dyer need of a manicure! After a week in recovery I purchased the snazziest detail sander there is from the hardware store. I finished a small amount, but the wood detail still required sanding by hand.

So I purchased this, and tried it on the cabinet door.

Stripper + old stained wood = an easy fix?

It worked well, but I guess you could say I was expecting a miracle.

And this is just the sanding process, I don’t even want to think about re-staining the wood. Oh well, this is a project I’m determined to finish!

Have a lovely week.

Instant Fleece Blanket

2010-04-07T10:52:00.001-07:00

Maybe not instant, but the process only took me a little over an hour from start to finish. You can’t beat that!

Start off by choosing two different colors of fleece, usually a print and a coordinating solid. I recommend 2.5 yards of each, the one I’m going to show you I only used 2 yards of fabric, big enough to cover your lap while watching TV.

Find an area or table in your home large enough to lay the fabric out flat. Lay the solid out first, I’m using a light pink. Next lay the printed fabric on top. Try your best to line all the edges up, most likely some trimming will be needed. It doesn’t have to be perfect!

Once all the trimming is finished, at each corner cut out a 5x5 inch square. If you’d like more fringe on the ends cut out a 8x8 inch square or larger instead.

Once all 4 corners are cut, discard the square pieces (or save for another project).

Now the fringe! Cut strips about 1 inch or less thick and 5 inches into the blanket (or 8 inches depending on how big the corners are), starting at the cut out corner. Make sure you cut through both layers of fleece. Once the first side is finished you can start tying them off.

Take a strip, both layers of fabric and it off like your tying a balloon.

Its that simple, once all 4 sides are finished you have a warm blanket!

I found an easy to follow demo here.

*Find this project linked on Be Inspired at Room to Inspire.

Finches & Flowers

2010-04-01T09:38:00.001-07:00

My boyfriend and I have been tending to our courtyard garden this past weekend. The beautiful California sunshine is wonderful here (despite these early April showers this week), everything has sprouted and blooming.

I hope the rain doesn’t ruin these early potato vine flowers!

Lavender from the front yard

Late summer last year, we made one last stop over at Bushnell Gardens and picked up some major deals. Like this hydrangea, soon it will bloom large pale green flowers!

Annabelle Hydrangea

I’m so happy with our garden this year although, my potato vine is infested with aphids snacking away on the vines. I’ve tried just about everything, from cinnamon (yes, the cinnamon in your pantry), bug sprays, and more sprays!

Until I found a more natural approach. This little guy glided into the garden, and started devouring the aphids.

Wahoo, now I won’t have to waste money on expensive pesticides. So I headed over to the hardware store and invested in some finch feeders. Bring on the birds, hopefully I won’t regret this. :)

New to the Pack

2010-03-18T14:31:00.001-07:00

Isn’t he just adorable, Andrew and I adopted him a few days ago. He’s a 10 month old purebred Siberian Husky…and a ball of fun! The past few days have been pretty easy, just trying to make sure all the fur-babies get along.

Plus, “he” needs a new name. Not to offend anyone with a dog named Max, but it just doesn’t suit him. He needs something unique to go along with his quirky personality!

So, for the moment all unfinished projects are on hold…probably not for long because I have many idea’s. Until then enjoy the warm sunny afternoon everyone! :)

The Classic Cane Chair

2010-03-14T12:48:00.001-07:00

I just love a classic cane chair! I recently bought one off the wonderful craigslist to reupholster.

Here are the idea’s I found to get me started, being this is my first chair redo :)

Horchow

Apartment Therapy

Julie Charbonneau

Aren’t all of these great? Does anyone have a cane chair in their home? Well, I’m of to the fabric store. Enjoy your beautiful day :)

Thelma the Trunk

2010-03-09T09:34:00.001-08:00

I’m still here, buried in projects and sewing. But I had to stop and take a minute to show off my new craigslist treasure!

For a month or so I’ve had a list of wanted craigslist finds… 1) china hutch / dining room storage… 2) coffee table replacement… 3) desk. So far two of the three have been found, yippee!

I’m unhappy to say that the china cabinet is still in the garage. I’ve sanded the cabinet however all of the detailed work takes some time. So, I’m thinking I might head over to the hardware store and fine something to strip the moldings. Has anyone tired to remove a light stain off oak?

I am happy to say…a coffee table replacement has been successfully found, purchased, and refinished.

For only $20 and a 25 minute car ride I am the new owner of the “Thelma” trunk. She received her new/old name from the yellow stamp. I searched the web to find out just who Thelma was, but found nothing.

The trunk its self dates back to the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. Being near as a century old the inside was in somewhat decent condition. (I forgot to take before pictures) The paper lining was stained and smelly but still very glued on. After a few hours of peeling, picking and sanding every piece was removed.

Then the interior was sealed with a clear gloss and left open to dry, and air out the lingering smell with the help of dryer sheets.

Thelma is now inside sitting in the living room. While I re-do our family room with new pillows, drapes, and accessories.

Have you ever inherited, or purchased an antique and wondered what its previous life was like?

Sew Domestic

2010-02-25T11:29:00.001-08:00

As if I’m not already living “the domestic life” (which I’m very satisfied with), Andrew finally made things a little more domesticated!

No there isn't a big sparkly ring on my left hand, but I am a proud owner of a new sewing machine. A Brother innov-is 80 to be exact! Isn’t it wonderful?

I’m thinking “who’s this girl?” while driving to the store. I’m not going to lie – five years ago I never pictured myself all giddy over a sewing machine.

Being that neither of us ever set foot in a sewing machine store, we were both wide eyed at how much these things cost. I went there with one budget and left after I nearly paid triple my budget. But worth every penny!

I do have to say its been keeping me away from my china cabinet project. I have a running tab of all the sewing projects I’d like to attempt (attempt being the key word).

Does anyone else own a sewing machine or a new “crafty toy” and absolutely love it?

Have a beautiful day and before I forget, thank you thank you for all of the lovely comments about my upholstered footstool revamp, you all are very sweet!

Upholstered Footstool Revamp

2010-02-22T10:32:00.001-08:00

Ta-da! Its finally finished, after a week. I knew exactly what fabric I wanted when I saw it in the fabric store at the beginning of last week. Then there was the paint choice, black or white?

But its finished and happily sitting in the corner of my dining room!

Before

During…

To give my $3 foot stool a little something extra, I lined the inside with black velvet. Adhered the velvet with spray on adhesive and trimmed the top.

After!

I’m so happy its finished! Now, I can start the china cabinet re-do. That will probably take a little longer than a week, so I’m off to Home Depot to invest in a ~~good~~ great sander. Because sanding by hand is not an option. Oh, and did I mention picking out new hardware is very tuff! There are so many different kinds to choose from.

Have a great week!

Cleaning & Salvaging

2010-02-16T22:42:00.001-08:00

I’m still here, up to my neck in cleaning. Remember what I said…I might get distracted. I’m halfway done so I’m glad I got this far.

But, I got side tracked for a good reason!

Yesterday we started cleaning our downstairs, finished everything but steam cleaning the carpet. Anyway, over to the good stuff…last night while scouring the ads on craigslist, Andrew found a rustic metal trunk. In the free ads, the bad is the part of town that was in. The owners said it would be left in front of the house and in bold caps “do not disturb the occupants”. Besides the fact of the unwelcoming ad we jumped up and drove about an hour outside of our house. By the time we arrived, it was dusk. So we locked the doors and did a drive by. And nothing!

That’s the problem with craigslist, good things go quick!

So the next morning when I stumbled upon a china cabinet for $40, I was excited.

And I picked it up this afternoon, and got in home safely in one piece.

Now what to do? I plan on either darkening or painting and replacing the hardware. I can’t wait to add this to my dining room.

Plus, the day before I went to a garage sale and estate sales. If you we’re following me on Twitter you’d know that I found a small foot stool and a few yards of fabric. Maybe even enough for some new drapes.

As you can see I’m going to have many projects on my hands in the next couple of days. I’ll try and post as I go along.

Have a great week! Oh, and did I mention the weather is beautiful, it feels like spring already.

Spring & Cleaning

2010-02-11T15:53:00.001-08:00

Who is ready for Spring? I know I am! All this rain is driving me crazy, everything is so beautiful and green though.

I’ve taken a week off from work and I have many things planned, from (early) spring cleaning and organizing to spring decorating and DIY’s. I’m very excited, because do you see all that filth behind those raindrops?

Plus the weather is supposed to be sunny. Hopefully I wont get distracted and wonder outside.

To motivate myself I’ve been searching for organizing ideas.

photos curtsey of: Martha Stewart and Better Homes and Gardens

I’m about a month early for spring cleaning, but I’m ready to get started! When do you start cleaning / decorating for spring?

Have a great rest of your week ladies!

Recipe Book

2010-02-06T13:31:00.001-08:00

As you can tell, my shelf full of recipe books and clippings was starting to get out of control.

I’m a little embarrassed I’m showing this but I figured I can’t be the only one. I’m the kind of person who makes copies and rips out recipes in magazines then shoves them in my cabinet and forgets about them.

Until now!

It took a long time, and I realized I have more recipes then I actually do…but I typed each one by hand on word. Printed them on some nice card stock, then cut to my preferred size. Next, I made a cover and a back cover out of thick card stock, and bound all of the pages together with binding rings. The two in the below picture are a little big for my liking, so I’ll probably replace them with some smaller ones and use the larger rings when I add even more pages.

I think I'll be more prone to using the recipes now, plus I also included a majority of family recipes that I know by heart. Now I’ll never forget them and my mom and grandmother wont be getting those random phone calls from me… “I can’t remember do I use ziti or penne?”.

Oh! And I almost forgot, I wanted to share my red velvet cupcake recipe from the other day.

Red Velvet Cupcakes

1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
¾ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon baking soda and salt
½ cup (1 stick) butter, softened
¾ cup sugar
2 large eggs
½ cup buttermilk
1 tablespoon liquid red food coloring
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon vinegar

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line muffin pan with paper liners.

In a small bowl, whisk flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a large bowl, with an electric mixer on medium speed, beat butter and sugar until light and creamy. Add eggs one at a time. In a glass combine buttermilk, food coloring, vanilla, and vinegar. With mixer on low beat the liquid into the large bowl, alternating with flour mixture. While scraping bowl occasionally.

Divide batter into muffin cups. Bake for 18-22 minutes. Let cool on wire rack before icing.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend, stay warm!

L is for Love

2010-02-03T11:29:00.001-08:00

Is it already February? Guess I’m a day or so behind with the kick off of Valentines goodies. The stores are filled with beautiful bouquets and treats, I went grocery shopping yesterday and just couldn’t help myself.

I’ve never really decorated for Valentines day, so this is all very new to me. I’m not a huge fan of red and/or pink in my home. I usually keep everything neutral, with some added blues and greens. A little here and there couldn’t hurt for the next 14 …err 12 days I suppose.

With some left over paper and letters from another project I decorated my tin vase, and added some bright red tulips!

And I just had to make some red velvet cupcakes with cream cheese frosting!

Well, this is my Valentines Day decor! Can’t say I’ll do much more decorating, maybe some baking here and there.

How do you decorate for Valentines day?

A Day Around the Lake

2010-01-30T11:15:00.001-08:00

Living in Northern California definitely has its perks! Beautiful Lake Tahoe is less than 1 hour away from my house, so Andrew and I travel there at least once a week or more.

Its something about the atmosphere there, everyone is so happy…maybe because everyone is on vacation. During the winter months streets are lined with snowboarders and skiers getting of the mountain, and during the summer the beaches are packed!

Zephyr Cove, NV

M.S. Dixie II

Highways and roads hug the shores around the entire lake, during the winter majority of the west slope is closed due to the snow. Causing people to drive through the Nevada side if you want to get to North Shore or vise versa.

So what some people would say is a pain, and completely out of their way…we enjoy driving the extra hour to North shore. Although we tacked on an extra 30 minutes by taking the wrong route.

If your trying to get from South Shore to North and your traveling through Nevada, stay away from the Highway 50 turn off or as the locals call it, Spooner Pass. Spooner pass is a 15 minute down hill grade with no turn offs or turnarounds. So your pretty much stuck until you hit Carson City, NV (beginning of the desert).

Lets just say we’ve learned our lesson, and we promise to visit North shore more often.

Once we arrived, we played in the fresh snow!

We ended our day around the lake with some hot soup from the Evergreen Restaurant in Tahoe City.

Getting Our Jamba On

2010-01-27T18:31:00.000-08:00

Have you tried the new(ish) Ideal Meals at Jamba Juice lately? They're delicious and worth the $5. Well, I kind of have an addiction to them now...so those $5 are adding up. Quickly!

How hard can it be to make these little things? So I pulled out the blender and headed to the store, I purchased all the ingredients for under $15. (See recipe below.)

Plus next week Andrew and I are starting our fitness training. Now we'll have a healthy morning snack before our run or bicycle ride.

Our training was supposed to start last week, err...or the week before, but its been non-stop rain here for the past 9 days. So today is the first sunny day...and guess where I am? Work for the next 4 days. Yuck!

When the training starts it will go on for the next couple of months, I'm going to be training and exercising with Andrew. He needs to be in tip top shape for his (possibly) new job in law enforcement. So I'll be his motivator, plus there might be a wedding soon, so I might as well get in shape and eat healthy too.

Berry and Banana Smoothie with Granola*
1 cup frozen mix berries, or fresh
¼ cup soy milk
1 banana, sliced
1 to 1 ½ cups plain or vanilla yogurt
1 handful of your favorite granola (I used Kashi and it was great!)
Honey for some added sweetness (optional)

Toss mixed berries, soy milk, yogurt, and half the banana into the blender. Liquify. Pour into a glass and top with granola, remaining banana, and honey.

*I honestly just eyeballed these measurements, its a smoothie...how much can you really get wrong? :)

Have a beautiful day!

Apples & Snow

2010-01-24T22:31:00.000-08:00

Andrew and I went for a drive the other day up to Lake Tahoe (more on that later), and long the way we stopped at a friends.

I've taken pictures of their apple orchard in the fall, and pick some off the trees in the summer. They're delicious little things. But there was something peaceful about the rows of apple trees covered in the snow. So I thought I'd share them with you!

Enjoy the week ahead!

Here's to 2010

2010-01-01T05:31:00.000-08:00

...and the next decade.

Its really here! 2009 seems like it was here and gone. I'm very excited for 2010, 2009 was just a so-so year for me. I feel like things are really going to turn around and start heading in the direction I want. I hope this year will have many interesting and great adventures ahead, I wish you all the best in 2010.

photo courtsey of: The Associated Press

Please Meet...

2009-12-30T00:34:00.000-08:00

Wow. I am behind schedule. I forgot to introduce my readers to my ~~newest~~ gadget. If you haven’t already noticed some improved changes around here.

My Nikon L100!

I bought her last month, and I’m very excited. It’s a big step up from my iphone camera, which surprisingly takes a decent photo for a phone.

I’ve taken it just about everywhere in the past month, and it’s become really easy to use. I bought it at Walmart just before Thanksgiving for under $250, now I’m sure it could be found for a lot less.

I was interested in a SLR, but decided to go with an advanced digital camera. Although I’m very happy, my next camera will defiantly be an SLR so I can have more control.

Alright, back to packing up Christmas décor!

Happy New Year!

Felt Glasses Case

2009-12-22T00:04:00.000-08:00

Design*Sponge has an amazing and very clearly written DIY section. While visiting the blog the other day I found felt glasses case do it yourself. I mimicked everything but the leaf design on the front.

I added my own touches with a flower design. The flowers are very simple, I hand drew a flower on the felt and cut it out, then repeated with a smaller scale flower. With a different color felt I cut a circle and snipped the edges almost to the center. To secure the layers, I attached clear beads with some thread…and viola!

A nice Christmas gift for friends or family. From start to finish in about 30 minutes.

Merry Christmas!

Snow days of December

2009-12-20T04:12:00.000-08:00

Talk about behind on posting! To get you up to speed this is what’s been going on.

Snow in the city. Yes I said it! It was the second week in December, when I woke up at 5:00am to a sheer blanket of snow outside. A little chaotic around town and even more up the hill where it snowed 2-3 feet in some places (overnight).

After the roadways were cleared and everyone’s power was restored it was time to celebrate my little brothers 17th birthday. Along with some homemade chopino and polenta!

Passing down the family’s secret recipe to the younger generation.

My dad and grandma adding the final touches.

Chris and Jason, soon these toughies will pledge to the Italian Mafia. :) Do the show any resemblance to our relatives (New York, 1942)?

Christmas is in just a few days and New Years thereafter. Merry Christmas!

The Secret Christmas Competition

2009-12-02T03:48:00.000-08:00

So sorry for the lack of posting! But you have to forgive me…its December 1st after all.

My rubber maids and cardboard boxes made it down from the attic within the last few days. The house has been a little bit of a wreck with my entire down stairs filled of boxes. Today is the first day it actually feels like Christmas around here. Despite not having a tree, which is a sore subject in our household at the moment. We finished the outdoor décor (for the most part), next week I’m sure the inside will be finished too.

Our house is the razzle dazzle of not just the block, but our entire gated community. (We have a secret decorating contest going on amongst our neighbors…but I don’t think they know about it yet).

Last year Christmas was just weeks after we moved in, so we barley hung lights. Even then we out did the neighbors. There wasn’t one wreath on a front door, nor a strand of glistening lights. This year we figured there might be some competition, so we planned for a month straight to get everything just right! The exterior is amazing and I still have many other decorations to add. And the neighbors around here, let’s just say they may have a wreath on their door…maybe even a “Happy Holidays” doormat. But before I get a head of myself I guess I can give my neighbors this…it’s only December 1st.

Happy Holidays everyone!

Something Other Than Apple Pie

2009-11-25T20:10:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share my very easy and creamy cheese cake recipe before the holiday tomorrow.

Graham cracker pie crust
2 bars of cream cheese
1 can of Eagle Brand sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
½ tablespoon of lemon juice

In a large mixing bowl combine cream cheese, condensed milk, vanilla, and lemon juice. Blend with an electric mixer until smooth. Next, spoon the batter into the pie crust and make sure everything is even. Place in the refrigerator, and the cheese cake will be ready in 6-8 hours. Enjoy plain or top with fresh fruit…or even chocolate.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Sweet, Savory and Very Chocolaty Hot Cocoa

2009-11-11T21:27:00.000-08:00

The other night, I had the craving for something sweet before bed. Cookies and ice cream was what I had in mind, but no eggs and no chocolate chips. Next best thing, hot cocoa, perfect on those fall and winter chilly nights.

Recipe:

2 cups whole milk
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
3 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
Cinnamon
Pinch of salt

Add milk to a saucepan, heat on low (careful, if heat is too high the milk can burn). Add all ingredients, and whisk together. A shake of cinnamon is all it takes, I use just under ¼ teaspoon. Whisk until all lumps are dissolved, pour into your favorite mug and enjoy!

See that new runner on my table, stay tuned and I show you how I made it!

Dressing up the Unstylish

2009-11-06T04:12:00.000-08:00

Since the day Andrew and I have moved into our new home I’ve hated our dining room chandelier. Regardless of the wall color or my art that hangs on the wall, that thing called a chandelier stuck out like a sore thumb. The transparent peach and cream glass light cover matched with the iron frame isn’t the look I’m really going for here.

It’s been a year now and that dreadful thing is still hanging there in the center of the room. I’ve always wanted to replace it with something sparkly and new, but everything I dream about is currently out of my price range.

Moving on to plan b. I discovered the glass light covers could be removed once the light bulbs were detached. I spent a few hours googling, looking for ideas and inspiration. I found many revamped chandeliers that turned out amazing. However, I wanted to keep my chandelier revamp cheap and simple.

With that in mind, Andrew and I headed over to Lowe's to scout out some new shades. We were a little disappointed; Lowe's didn’t have quite the selection as they do online. But it was 8:00pm and I wasn’t walking out of there empty handed.

So we found this!

And some of these…

A few minutes later, and the unstylish chandelier is now dressed up with its new shades. I suppose now I can live with it for another year!

Have a great weekend everyone.

Eager for Christmas

2009-11-03T22:18:00.000-08:00

With Halloween over, I’m jumping in gear for Christmas and completely bypassing Thanksgiving (just not the food). I’ve had my harvest decorations up since the end of September…so I’m ready to take them down. I used to get upset with stores displaying Christmas décor and playing the holiday music right after Halloween. I felt like companies were trying to rush the Christmas holiday.

This year is a little different; I already know where I want to hang every velvet bow and exact location to hang the lights outside, centerpiece and table linens I want to display…even down to the wrapping paper. I think this is because the past 3 years I’ve been moving around Christmas time. I hate packing and unpacking, then having to decorate for Christmas. We moved into our house this time last year, so we ended up buying a tree, hanging a few ordainments and that was that.

This year is a new year, and I’m very eager to kick off the Christmas season. Here is some of my Christmas inspiration.

Photos courtsey of: Country Living

Photos courtsey of: Better Homes and Gardens

Photos courtsey of: Country Living

Photos courtsey of: Martha Stewart and Country Living

And don’t worry, you wont find my house lit with Christmas lights, or see a big wreath on my door in the middle of November. But, I’m not saying I wont be out there Thanksgiving night after dinner.

Colors of Autumn

2009-10-27T21:37:00.000-07:00

…Darn, I’m caught! So I decided to put off some projects for a beautiful (cold) day in the Sierra Mountains. With a mug of hot coffee in hand and extra warm socks on my feet Mr. SK and I hit the road.

The Sierra Mountains this time of year are gorgeous, with the trees turning red, orange and gold...the pictures below don’t even need an explanation.

Bridal Veil. A small waterfall off highway 50 near Fresh Pond

Next stop, Echo Lake! A 30 minute drive took 1 hour thanks to a tree laying across the highway.

Echo Lake Boat Dock

It was freezing cold (34°) and extremely windy. I wasn’t expecting it to be this chilly; luckily I had Mr. Survivor Man by my side to provide me with some much-needed layers.

We filled out our day use permit and hit the trails.

Once we were moving on the trail we started to warm up…sort of!

We tried to keep our mind off the cold by looking at our amazing view. And some pinecone collecting helped too!

Ultimately we wanted to hike all the way to Upper Echo Lake. My family used to own a cabin at Echo Lake when I was a little girl. I remember hiking with my dad to find that perfect fishing spot during the summer. For some reason today Upper Echo Lake seemed farther than I remembered. Maybe because it wasn’t a hot summer day or because my hands were full of sappy pinecones.

More than half way there we decided to turn back. The thought of a warm car sounded quite nice.

After a warm lunch by the fireplace at Tahoe Brewery in South Lake Tahoe we hit the road once again. Fallen Leaf Lake was next on our list of to do’s. The lake is a few minuets outside of the city, and it's surrounded by cabins and even a rustic mountain chapel.

This time we stayed in the car and took pictures by rolling down the window. It was getting very cold and cloudy outside so we decided to head back to our fur babies at home.

But not before driving down Angora Ridge Road. The golden birch trees lining the road caught my eye!

We kept driving and found this untouched meadow.

10 minutes up the road and we reached to top of Angora Ridge. We found a lookout with some pretty spectacular views.

The lake below is Fallen Leaf.

Fallen Leaf is the first lake, the furthest is Lake Tahoe

The Sierra Mountains

Before we finally left, I spotted some snow flurries. The low temperature tonight is supposed to be 15°…I’m glad we’re back in our warm, cozy home! I hope you enjoyed!

PS: Those pinecones I found…I’ll be sure to add them to my growing project list.

Good Things Come in Three’s

2009-10-26T02:44:00.000-07:00

It’s been a while but I’m still here! I’ve got some exciting, inexpensive projects lined up this week. Since I’ve been MIA for a while…I have some ground to cover.

Here’s a little teaser of what’s in store, hope this will hold everyone over until later on this week.

#1

#2

#3

Happy Monday everyone!

Magnetic Chalkboard

2009-10-21T17:25:00.000-07:00

Another rainy day in California, time for a project! No, I’m not going to be gallivanting through the Sierra Mountains today. While visiting Design*Sponge I found a DIY I just had to replicate, a magnetic chalkboard. Perfect for my newly organized closet!

Here are some other idea’s I found just before I started from Flickr.

Some materials I used:
→ Frame of your choice
→ Chalkboard Paint
→ Sheet metal
→ Dremel
→ Hooks
→ Lock nuts
→ Fine grit sandpaper
→ Thread Locker
→ Drill

I also painted my frame with a glossy white spray paint, so you can add that to the list above if you don’t already like your frame color. To get started I painted one coat of white on the frame…3 coats later and it is glossy white like I want!

Next, I scuffed up the sheet metal with some fine grit sandpaper (it helps the primer adhere to the smooth surface). Don’t worry about the scratches, they wont show through. Let the primer dry according the instructions on the bottle, then go back over with the sandpaper. Be sure to wipe clean, then add one more coat of primer. You don’t have to do 2 coats of primer, but I want the blackboard to hold up well.

After the primer was dry I outlined the size I needed with the original glass from the frame. Next I had Mr. SK (Andrew) attempt to cut the metal with our new dremel. All didn’t go as well. Ultimately I ended up driving over to Ace Hardware and having them cut it for me (free of charge).

Then I figured out where I wanted to drill my holes for the hooks. Once finished, I spray painted the sheet metal with the chalkboard paint. I also gave the metal hooks a coat of primer and the blackboard paint too. After, I attached the hooks with the nuts and secured with thread locker. The backs were a little long on the hook backings, so I had Andrew cut them flush with the nut. (There are probably easier way of doing this, but it was a fun challenge)

One more coat of blackboard paint and the new chalkboard was ready to be placed in its frame. It fit very snug, I didn’t even need staples or nails to secure it to the frame.

Next just some chalk and car keys and its ready to go, and some magnetics of course!

My Morning Place

2009-10-16T05:49:00.000-07:00

Caffé Santoro, a place where I find more than great coffee in the morning. A cozy, family atmosphere makes this my favorite morning spot.

Every morning bright and early you will find Mr. Personality himself (and owner) Ken. Who knows all of his regular customers by name and even their drink of choice.

Caffé Santoro crew, they will make you feel part of their little Italian family.

The Italian-esque caffé has walls lined with family photos and local made pastries. Owner Ken traveled to Italy himself to try and replicate the Italian café experience, truly a great spot and a local favorite.

Where does everyone else spend their wee morning hours? ...At home, a favorite bakery or coffee house?

(All photos curtsey of Caffé Santoro - Eikon Photography)

The First Storm

2009-10-13T15:56:00.000-07:00

It has been raining non-stop today, and I’m not talking on and off again showers. The wind is whipping (per weather.com 39mph)…I actually had to move my potted plants into the garage. The lights inside have been flickering and my patio is drenched with water (its probably seeping into the garage as I write)!

You’d think I would want to stay inside today and work on some crafts or make a warm homemade soup for dinner. Instead Mr. SK and I went for a drive up to the mountains.

It was very cold out. I’m surprised it wasn’t snowing. We stopped by a friend’s house to get warm by the fire, and then we were off again, traveling through the mountains. The roads were slick and covered in debris, just how I like it.

While traveling through Apple Hill area (a great area in Northern California that has 56 different ranches. From winery’s, orchards, Christmas tree farms, pumpkin patches and craft fairs.) we stopped at Boa Vista Orchard. You’re truly not in the apple hill spirit unless you have a cup of hot apple cider and an apple turn over in hand.

Visit Boa Vista Orchard #3 Online.

And the beautiful flower fields at Bill's Apples #35

So that was our glorious, raining, yucky, wet day. And I loved every minute of it. But sadly Miss Mia did not!

She hates water. Mr. SK and I can barley get her outside to go to the bathroom.

Well happy raining season everyone…up next SNOW!

40 Minutes

2009-10-13T00:26:00.000-07:00

I finally got my butt into gear and organized my closest under the stairs. So many small appliances and knick-knacks I’ve forgotten about. And seriously…how many phone books does one household really need? I pulled three out of there, two of which were still in plastic wrapping.

Here is the before mess I was living with. Yuck!

During…

And after!

40 minutes later and I can say I am satisfied, I should have done this sooner. Now every time I open that door I see a lot less clutter and a more organized closet. Now lets see how long I can keep it that way.

*PS: Despite my closet being clean, I’m frustrated…my one and only camera has broke. Time for a new one! Until then I will be using my iphone camera, as you can tell it’s not the best. But it works!

Working Behind the Scene

2009-10-07T23:21:00.000-07:00

It’s still me behind this new layout. I know this is my…what? Third layout change in the past month. Well, not really but it seems like it. Hopefully this one will stick. I can never find anything I absolutely love and can live with for a while. Maybe the simplicity and neutral colors wont bore me.

So, how does my seldom and select few readers like the new change? I’ve been MIA for a whole week trying to get this just perfect.

And wow! Tell me its not really October yet. Have I really been in hiding that long? I am in no way prepared for fall birthdays, dinner parties, and Halloween.

Happy Wednesday everyone. The workweek is almost over!

Fall Has Officially Arrived

2009-09-30T12:06:00.000-07:00

Fall is in the air. We’re finally out of the triple digits and according to the weatherman yesterday morning there were chances of “spritzles”. All morning I was looking for raindrops on my patio but didn’t find a single one. (Sigh)

Since the raindrops were a no show, Mr. SK and I decided to go on a bike ride…a 5-mile bike ride down to the river. And we weren’t the only ones with the bright idea!

How is everyone else enjoying the fall weather?

Stuck in a Blogging Rut

2009-09-25T09:42:00.000-07:00

I’ve been stuck in this blogging rut since I’ve started about 2 months ago. I’m following a few blogs, but I feel like I don’t have the potential they have. I’ve been reading on the internet how to get blog traffic to your site, such as commenting and doing guest blogs. I can’t say the information hasn’t helped, guess I’m just expecting a little more. I’ve been commenting on blogs that inspire me, and pondering about good post ideas. And the whole guest blogging is just intimidating to me. So, I must be doing something wrong!

With that said, I know everyone has been in my place at one time or another, so how did you start? Any recommendations? How long until you start to see comments? Any and all information will be appreciated.

Some blogs that inspire me, just to name a few: Centsational Girl, Velvet and Linen and Adventures in Renovating a Brooklyn Limestone

Goodbye Summer, Hello Autumn!

2009-09-24T09:52:00.000-07:00

For some reason I can’t get in the decorating mood for autumn this year, maybe because my hometown high today is 97°. Or because my backyard is still lush with hydrangeas, azaleas, and petunia’s. Whatever the reason my house is still full of summer finds.

So this weekend I plan to pull out the fall and Halloween décor, with a little help from Martha and Better Homes and Gardens.

I hope these pictures get me into the fall and Halloween spirit, and you too!

7 Years

2009-09-13T21:32:00.001-07:00

Wow! It’s been seven years with my other half today.

Andrew wanted to take a drive down to Santa Cruz for the weekend. I couldn’t have asked for anything better. The weather was perfect, the beach was crowded but fun, and we found some of the best little restaurants.

For our anniversary dinner we went to the award winning Shadowbrook Restaurant in Capitola. If you’re ever in town and willing to spend $120 plus on dinner for two I strongly recommend it.

Before we left we went to The Buttery Corner Bakery in downtown Santa Cruz for breakfast. Another place we both will visit again.

Other than the great food we spent time at the beach and shopping. I couldn’t have asked for more!

Starting at the top left corner: Dillon’s Beach in 2003, Camp Pendleton 2004, Avila Beach in 2005, Cruising in 2006, Echo Lake in 2007 and Avila Beach in 2008.

Santa Cruz 2009

I am so grateful to have Andrew in my life. We’re perfect for each other, and I look forward to sharing another seven years with him.

Dining Room Inspiration Board (Revamped)

2009-09-10T23:50:00.000-07:00

Here it is…the new dining room. I’m very excited to start putting the pieces together. Plus I decided to include the inherited Noritake china from the Noritake Debate. Instead of actually using the china I’ll just have the china on display in the glass cabinet.

This took me awhile to make everything work, but I think all the pieces compliment each other. Let me know what you think!

(Images courtesy of: Pottery Barn, Restoration Hardware,Barn Light Electric, Neiman Marcus, All Posters, Ann Sacks, Macy’s and Horchow)

Nip and Tucks

2009-09-05T23:43:00.000-07:00

I’ve done a few changes around here. I haven’t found a layout that really explains what I’m about, until now (I hope)! The layout before was ok for the time being, but a little plain…I want to grab my readers attention.

The pink peony shows my love for gardens and the outdoors, while the pear equals food and how I enjoy cooking. Then there is the crystal chandelier that represents my interior design portion of this blog.

Old Banner

New Banner

Please leave comments and tell me what you think!

Courtyard Dinner for 2

2009-09-04T03:50:00.000-07:00

One day last week I spent most of the day planning a nice dinner for my hunny. It seems like we don’t share enough of these together. Usually our dinners consist of great food (that is never an exception) on a plastic plate, in front of our TV!

So I decided to change some things for one night. We have a stone patio that we rarely use because our backyard is a developing project. And it’s taking longer than I would like. But it was a nice night and I figured why not?

Yes. I do realize my table decorating skills for this one isn't very pretty. But I had to make due, cooking the dinner was taking up most of my time. Plus he's a man; his eye was on the food.

Menu:

Beef Tenderloin with Bordelaise Sauce
For the bordelaise sauce:
1 1/2 Tbs. unsalted butter
2 shallots, chopped
1 Tbs. freshly cracked pepper
1 bay leaf
6 to 8 fresh thyme sprigs
1 bottle (375ml) Cabernet Sauvignon (about
1 1/3 cups)
2 cups unsalted veal or beef stock

3 Tbs. unsalted butter
2 beef filets (preferably prime), each 6 oz., well trimmed
Salt, to taste
Freshly cracked pepper, to taste, plus 1/8 tsp.
1 carrot, cut into 1/4-inch dice (about 1 cup)
2 shallots, cut into 1/4-inch dice (about 1 cup)
1 fresh thyme sprig
1 bay leaf
1 Tbs. chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Directions:
To make the bordelaise sauce, in a 3-quart saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the shallots and sauté, stirring occasionally, until tender and lightly golden, 6 to 8 minutes. Add the pepper, bay leaf and thyme and stir to mix. Add the wine, bring to a boil and cook, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is reduced to 1/2 cup, 15 to 20 minutes. Add the stock and bring to a simmer, skimming off any excess fat, and cook for 15 minutes. Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean saucepan and keep warm over very low heat.

In a 10-inch fry pan over medium-high heat, melt 1 Tbs. of the butter. Season the filets with salt and pepper. When the butter is hot, add the filets and sear until golden underneath, about 2 minutes. Using a pair of tongs, turn the filets, and add the carrot, shallots, the 1/8 tsp. pepper, the thyme and bay leaf. Cover and cook for 3 minutes for medium-rare, or until done to your liking. Transfer the filets to warmed individual plates.

Continue cooking the vegetables, uncovered, until just tender, 1 minute more. Add the sauce, bring to a boil and stir in the remaining 2 Tbs. butter. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens, 7 to 10 minutes. Remove the thyme sprig and bay leaf and discard. Stir in the parsley. Spoon the sauce and vegetables around the filets and serve immediately and enjoy!

Garlic Mashed Potatoes
6 garlic cloves, unpeeled
2 Tbs. olive oil
1 Tbs. finely chopped fresh rosemary or thyme
3 baking potatoes, about 1 1/2 lb. total, peeled
or unpeeled, cut into 2-inch chunks
4 Tbs. (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
1/2 cup milk
Salt and freshly ground white or black pepper,
to taste
1/4 cup snipped fresh chives (optional)

Directions:
Preheat an oven to 325°F.

Place the garlic cloves in a small baking dish. Drizzle with the olive oil and sprinkle with the rosemary. Cover with aluminum foil and bake until very soft, 35 to 40 minutes. Remove from the oven and, when cool enough to handle, squeeze the garlic from the skins into a small bowl. Mash with a fork. Strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve held over the garlic and mix well.

Meanwhile, place the potatoes in a saucepan and add water to cover by 1 inch. Bring to a boil and cook, uncovered, until tender, about 20 minutes.

Just before the potatoes are ready, in a small saucepan over low heat, combine the butter and milk and heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is hot. Drain the potatoes, transfer to a warmed bowl, and mash well with a fork or potato masher. Alternatively, push them through a ricer or food mill placed over a warmed bowl.

Add the butter mixture to the potatoes and stir until smooth. Mix in the garlic and season with salt and pepper. Stir in the chives and serve immediately.

It was a good time; we stayed out there, cozy by the fire. Even though we're in California at the end of August. It just makes me want to finish our backyard so we can enjoy it even more.

Noritake Debate

2009-09-03T22:07:00.000-07:00

I'm at a stand still with my inherited Noritake China. Should keep or sell? Right now it is sitting in a cabinet above my fridge, it isn’t a style I’m going for in my dining room. Not that my dining room is completely finish, but if you read my Dining Room Inspiration Board post you would understand. Not saying I couldn’t redo my dining room, it would just be a pain (sigh)!

Plus the china is bad luck I guess you could say. It was a wedding gift from my grandfather to my parents. My parents have divorced after twenty years of marriage, a few years back. But some reason it still holds a sentimental value to me, I just can’t bare to sell it. The reason I’m having a hard time parting with it is because the china was a gift from my grandfather, who is now ill with Parkinson’s.

Now I have to ask my self, is it something I want to hold on to. Of course I could sell it on ebay for a couple hundred dollars…maybe go buy that new coffee table I’ve been eyeing. But would that coffee table hold that same sentimental value in a few years? Probably not! Every time I look at the china I get mixed emotions. I see my grandfather fighting the war in Japan many years ago and bringing home a priceless heirloom. But I also see my parents and their ruthless divorce, the strain its caused on our family. (So, I think I just answered my own question!)

To be continued…

Sweet Dreams

2009-09-03T06:21:00.001-07:00

Good morning! As everyone is getting up to start his or her day, I’m looking forward to the end of mine. I currently work graveyard at my job, and it has really made me appreciate my bedroom. I don’t get off until 7 am, so going home to an amazing bedroom is key and something that I look forward to. Like this bedroom by Sherrill Canet.

I just love the metallic dresser against the mushroom colored walls.

Happy Thursday everyone, the weekend is almost here!

10 Things for September

2009-09-02T02:20:00.000-07:00

Wow! It's September already, where do I begin?

1. New fall wreath for my front door.
2. Find an antique accent chair to reupholster in blue (for my living room).
3. Invite my hunny's parents over for a home cooked dinner.
4. Get out the fall decor, YAY bring on the holidays.
5. Find a way to quit my day job. That should be number one, actually!
6. New hair cut, I'm way over due.
7. Greys Anatomy, Desperate Housewives, and Private Practice...do I need to say more?
8. My six year anniversary. I wonder what the mister is going to do, this should be interesting...be sure to stay tuned.
9. Sell at least two things.
10. Start making new Christmas stockings for my family.