Scribbles and Snapshots

It's been a hard day and night and I've been working like a dog...

2010-08-26T12:50:00.000-07:00

Although it took six months, I'm happy to link to my tutorial. A knitting pattern for new born leg warmers. Please click on the link below!

http://hippiestitch.blogspot.com/2010/08/newborn-warm-leggers-leg-warmers.html

#26 Share

2010-02-22T09:43:00.000-08:00

I saw the angel in the marble and carved until I set him free.
-Michelangelo

Create a tutorial that can be posted on the blog for others to use. You can choose your subject and format of choice (video, pdf, photos...)

#25 - A Compassionate Heart

2010-02-21T12:33:00.000-08:00

During my growing-up years, my father always purchased a bouquet of flowers for my mom on Valentine's Day and a smaller bouquet for each of his daughters.

Last weekend when I was at my brother's home, I learned that he now does the same thing for his wife and daughters. During the first few minutes of my visit Abbey, age 10, took me to her room to show me her bouquet. I told her how lovely it was and how lucky she was to have a dad who loves her so much.

Later in my visit, Abbey came and presented me with one of the flowers from her bouquet. She had realized that I didn't have anyone to give me a bouquet of flowers and didn't want me to feel left out. I was deeply touched by the empathy that this young girl felt and by her very kind act. My lone Valentine's flower means a great deal to me because it was given by one with a very compassionate heart.

25 Heart Break

2010-02-18T11:23:00.000-08:00

com⋅pas⋅sion –noun

1.	a feeling of deep sympathy and sorrow for another who is stricken by misfortune, accompanied by a strong desire to alleviate the suffering.

My sister-in-law is a loving compassionate person, whom I admire. Recently she went to help a friend who is fighting cancer. Her plan was to arrive, with another mutual friend and do what ever needed to be done to help this family heal. What she found breaks my heart, I'm not sure I even know how to react to it.

A mother depressed and having severe side effects to chemo manifesting as a traumatic brain injury. At times she doesn't know who you are or have any short term memory. Two beautiful girls, one 3 and desperately wanting her mother, not understanding why she is different and one 3 months old being passed from care giver to care giver who's mother doesn't have the capacity to mother her now. And finally a husband just trying to keep it together.

My sister-in-law and her friend jumped in with both feet and calling themselves "fairy god mothers" took care of their friends children to the best of their ability. Loving them as fierce and hard as they could for a short time frame. When it was time to leave and return to their own children they were both heart broken and devastated to leave them.

Wanting their love and energy to remain with the girls she opened an opportunity for me to help this beautiful family heal. She asked if I would make fairy god mother dolls of her and her friend for the girls, similar to the 'Aunt Julie & Uncle Cary' dolls I made for my nephews.

I'm waiting for head shots from my sister-in-law. When they are finished I will post a photo.

It's a small contribution, hopefully it helps.

In the mean time I am loving on my son as much as possible and being grateful for my health every second of the day.

25 - Compassion is the Key

2010-02-10T21:08:00.000-08:00

Human compassion, or what I sometimes call “human affection,”
is the key factor for all human business.
-XIV Dalai Lama, The Art of Living

This week look for examples of human compassion and perform at least one yourself. Share an observation you make or something you experiences as a result.

#24 - Dream Big!

2010-02-10T21:05:00.001-08:00

For a long time I have dreamed about being financially independent/able to retire by the time I’m 55. This year I decided that I ought to see if that dream would ever be possible. I knew I needed to learn more about money in order to live that dream so I enrolled in a money management class and started tracking the money I’m spending, saving, and paying out for my debts.

Over the past few weeks, I have learned that by tweaking a few things in my spending patterns, paying down my debt faster, and investing more aggressively, I should be able to reach my goal – and still have a good life now. That excites me! I’m super motivated to make those changes and put my dream within reach.

#24 Do I dare?

2010-02-09T11:38:00.000-08:00

This weeks challenge was a brain bender. What parts of my life do I love, what do I dream would be added or different, where am I sleep walking through life? I thought and thought, made lists, surfed online. Then narrowed it down to a few 'action items' for lack of a better term.

The life I dream of is a life with spirit. It's creative, open, warm, grounded, fun and flows.

Three areas kept coming up in my musing: Keenan and/or parenting, Cary and/or relationships and spirituality. oh, and food, sounds weird but it's important for me.

- Tuesday art projects for me and Keenan (see photo above from today's first art day!)
- Mindful food preparation with blessing (As I prepare this life force for those I love...)
- Gratitude sharing before family dinner
- Saturday night date night with Cary (can just be time spent together after Keenan goes to bed, as we can't afford a babysitter every week)
- Creating a home that better embraces our life, tastes and talents. Starting with decorating, cleansing and organization.

In the scope of the quote for this week, my lists seems small and not very daring. I'm trying to remember that small change adds up!

Dare to live it!

2010-02-01T12:46:00.000-08:00

life takes care of those who dare to live it
Maya Angelou

This week trust in the quote above and dare to live some part of the life you dream about.

#23 Ho Ho HO!

2009-11-30T09:49:00.000-08:00

Almost finished with Christmas, woohoo! Here are the projects thus far:

Purses for a couple of tweens on my list

Uncle Cary and Aunt Julie dolls for a few of the little guys (hilarious!)

A plain plain hat for my man (local Alpaca yarn!)

Hand Knit dish cloth for my dad

#23 Jump Start

2009-10-16T13:51:00.000-07:00

Forget not that the earth delights to
feel your bare feet and the winds
long to play with your hair.
-Khalil Gibran

Let's get a jump start on the holidays by making one of our Christmas gifts this week.

#22 Old to New

2009-10-16T12:34:00.000-07:00

Until recently I stored all my craft and sewing supplies in a couple of plastic storage containers. My 1 1/2 year old son soon discovered how to open these and find all sorts or fun treasures to play with (scissors, pins, razor blades, small objects just the size for chocking). I needed a way to lock my supplies.

I looked around the house and found an un-used filing cabinet with locking drawers. I then went to thrift stores and purchased all sorts of containers to hold my supplies inside of the cabinet drawers.

The locking filing cabinet

An old suitcase and picnic basket for pattern storage

All sorts of kitchen tins and baskets to organize my supplies

My favorite is the copper cake mold for buttons, this one my son gets to play with and loves.

One helpful tip: remember to write down the measurements of the drawers you are trying to organize and bring your tape measure to the thrift store. I measured out a mock drawer in the store and set the items I was thinking of buying in that space to make sure it worked.

Challenge #22 - Seeing Old Things in a New Light

2009-10-05T22:14:00.000-07:00

Each day presents the possibility of a miracle. Be realistic. Plan for one.

We often look at objects and only see one possible utility - the one we've always known. The following web pages show hundreds of innovative ways we can use (and re-use) objects we have around us: New Uses for Old Things and the 50 All-Time Favorite New Uses

(for example, use a traveling soap dish as a camera case)

This week look around for new ways you can use old things you have. Post a couple of your favorite innovations along with photos by next Monday.

Sharing the Love in SLC

2009-10-05T22:02:00.000-07:00

I didn't make anything for a specific charity, but I did try sharing the love with others. One way was to give lots of loaves of zucchini bread this past week to people who I thought needed a lift.

I also ran the last few miles of my sister's marathon with her this past Saturday so she'd know that I loved her and supported her. It was awesome to see her cross the finish line within her desired timeframe!

Hats Hats Hats

2009-09-28T11:00:00.000-07:00

#21 Share the love

2009-09-21T08:59:00.000-07:00

Let us be poised, and wise, and our own, today.
- Ralph Waldo Emerson

Use your creative talents this week to make something for a charity. If you need an idea or inspiration join me knitting hats for "Warming families".

http://hippiestitch.blogspot.com/

#20 Life Rythmn

2009-09-21T08:54:00.000-07:00

As I have been knitting this week...

Knit 2, Purl 2, Knit 2, Purl 2
Mother 2, Clean 2, Wife 2, Work 2
Knit 2, Purl 2, Knit 2, Purl 2
Cook 2, Sew 2, Outside 2, Sleep 1
The rythmn of my life, weaving together stitch by stitch
Knit 2, Purl 2, Knit 2, Purl 2

Response to #20 - A Brief Poem

2009-09-15T21:17:00.000-07:00

Seeking Satiation

Parched, I carefully scour shelves
Seeking for just the right source of rejuvenation
Finally, my hand rests on the perfect refreshment
Hours later, text devoured, my soul is satiated.

#15 Photos

2009-09-02T14:30:00.000-07:00

Waaaaaay back in July we had a challenge to try something new. I chose to make a pair of jeans, something I had never attempted before. When I finished them my camera was broken. Here they are a few months late

I'm also requesting another week for last weeks challenge, as it's a holiday this week and all. You up for that Steph?

Challenge #20 - Words as Art

2009-08-25T22:34:00.000-07:00

Some words for all artists to consider:
"Fear not the voice of the critic,
for no man ever erected a status in honour of a critic."
- Finnish composer

Create a poem or a word picture this week. Share your offering by next Monday.

#19 Introspection on Creativity

2009-08-25T22:25:00.000-07:00

1. What is the first creative moment you remember?
Cooking with my mother, playing dress up, coloring, making up my own stories
2. Was anyone there to witness or appreciate it?
My parents
3. What is the best idea you've ever had?
To never let “hard things” hold me back
4. What made it great in your mind?
It gave me courage and confidence that I can accomplish almost anything if I’m willing to work for it
5. What is the dumbest idea?
Worrying more about what others think than what you think for yourself
6. What made it stupid?
You live in a constant worry of not being accepted
7. Can you connect the dots that led you to this idea?
I got tired of wondering what others thought of me, wanted me to do; I got more courageous and confident
8. What is your creative ambition?
To live more freely, less restrained, more boldly
9. What are the obstacles to this ambition?
Myself, perceived rules and social conventions
10. What are the vital steps to achieving this ambition?
Letting go of things; daring to live with less restraint
11. How do you begin your day?
With a prayer of thanks and an early-morning run
12. What are your habits? What patterns do you repeat?
I am a creature of habit – I often eat the same things for meals, I pray every day, walk to work along pretty much the same route daily, read scriptures daily, workout daily, write a short note in my journal each night, church weekly, listen to music whenever possible, travel frequently
13. Describe your first successful creative act?
Not sure this is the first or second, but these are two early ones: sewed a pillow and blanket for my dolls
14. Describe your second successful creative act?
Made cookies
15. Compare them.
Home based, simple pleasures, combination of materials
16. What are your attitudes toward: money, power, praise, rivals, work, play?
I think of money as a tool. I like internal power, but not power than harms others. I love praise and think it is underutilized. I wish people would compete against themselves rather than others. I love work (all sorts) and am comfortable doing it. I have a hard time playing.
17. Which artists do you admire most?
Painters, dancers, writers
18. Why are they your role models?
I love artists’ discipline and ability to tell stories and express emotions with their bodies, words, and/or paintings. I also love the way they can affect others who witness their art.
19. What do you and your role models have in common?
The intense desire to express ourselves through art and delight others
20. Does anyone in your life regularly inspire you?
Yes, many – good people all around who serve others; dedicated parents; prophets
21. Who is your muse?
I don’t believe I have just one – lots of people
22. Define muse.
A motivator; someone who compels me to do more, or be creative, or be more than I currently am
23. When confronted with superior intelligence or talent, how do you respond?
I am impressed.
24. When faced with stupidity, hostility, intransigence, laziness, or indifference in others, how do you respond?
I often feel badly for the person; sometimes I am frustrated with him or her.
25. When faced with impending success or the threat of failure, how do you respond?
Work hard to succeed
26. When you work, do you love the process or result?
Both – I love the process because that’s where the learning takes place. I love the result because you can see the output of your and others’ efforts.
27. At what moments do you feel your reach exceeds your grasp?
Yes
28. What is your ideal creative activity?
No one answer - reading (because it spawns my thinking, writing, baking, sewing, teaching
29. What is your greatest fear?
Being with someone in person, but not connecting completely with them mentally, spiritually, or emotionally
30. What is the likelihood of your above answer happening?
Hopefully, not very likely
31. Which of your answers would you most like to change?
Being able to identify a specific creative ambition to pursure
32. What is your idea of mastery?
Attainment of perfection
33. What is your greatest dream?
Traveling everywhere in the world I want to go

#19 crazy hard to do

2009-08-24T19:12:00.000-07:00

1. What is the first creative moment you remember?

I can think of many, not sure which was the first. Making a wooden shelf for my collection of plastic animals, playing with my mom’s sewing supplies, painting a picture of cats for my mom, rearranging my bedroom furniture.

2. Was anyone there to witness or appreciate it?

My parents

3. What is the best idea you've ever had?

To come back to life after my divorce

4. What made it great in your mind?

I found myself again

5. What is the dumbest idea?

To live for someone else

6. What made it stupid?

I lost years

7. Can you connect the dots that led you to this idea?

It was slow and subtle changes, not taking time to evaluate or take care of myself

8. What is your creative ambition?

To break through my creative blocks around rules and structure. To live the creative life I visualize for myself

9. What are the obstacles to this ambition?

Habits, Fears, Other commitments

10. What are the vital steps to achieving this ambition?

Accepting imperfection, spending more time creating, setting goals, visualizing, changing habits

11. How do you begin your day?

Nurse my son, throw on clothes, make breakfast for my son and myself, feed the cats, pack up for the day, leave for work

12. What are your habits? What patterns do you repeat?

Personal care routine, putting my son to sleep by singing (same songs, same order), Process for designing landscapes always the same (site visit, photos, layout, site visit, planting, revisions), when creating my habit is to clean the space first, then be super messy creating, leave the mess for later.

13. Describe your first successful creative act?

‘Make it yourself with wool’ competition

14. Describe your second successful creative act?

Growing a strawberry garden

15. Compare them.

Both were systematic, both included help from my mother, both I was fiercely proud of

16. What are your attitudes toward: money, power, praise, rivals, work, play?

Money: Don’t care, wish it didn’t exist

Power: I like to be in control of myself and situations

Praise: thrive on it, work for it

Rivals: try to make them friends, jealousy, ignore

Work: don’t mind hard work if I enjoy or believe in what I’m doing. Work harder on projects for other people then for myself

Play: Big priority, important part of my life and beliefs

17. Which artist do you admire most?

Matisse, T.S. Eliot, Wolfgang Oehme & James Van Sweden

18. Why are they your role models?

Vision, breaking rules, use of color, understanding of texture

19. What do you and your role models have in common?

Vision, style

20. Does anyone in your life regularly inspire you?

Tonja, Wendy, Steph, Patty, Keenan, Lisa Marie,

21. Who is your muse?

Always changing

22. Define muse.

Someone/something who/that gets me thinking and prompts me to act

23. When confronted with superior intelligence or talent, how do you respond?

I’m confronted. I feel jealous and try to prove to them that I am just as intelligent or talented.

24. When faced with stupidity, hostility, intransigence, laziness, or indifference in others, how do you respond?

Usually complain to someone else about it. It makes me irritated and sad.

25. When faced with impending success or the threat of failure, how do you respond?

I push through to succeed

26. When you work, do you love the process or result?

Process, this is why I never make things more than once, I’m bored once I figure it out

27. At what moments do you feel your reach exceeds your grasp?

Time always creates these moments for me. I usually have too many projects for the amount of time available and usually procrastinate until the last minute.

28. What is your ideal creative activity?

I think I have a few: teaching, sewing, systemizing, design

29. What is your greatest fear?

I won’t live the life I want to.

30. What is the likelihood of your above answer happening?

Not sure

31. Which of your answers would you most like to change?

#23

32. What is your idea of mastery?

Having enough skill to teach others, but knowing you’ve only scratched the surface and need to continually keep learning, trying, exploring

33. What is your greatest dream?

To feel complete and at ease with myself and life.

#17 Celebrate - a little late

2009-08-20T12:36:00.000-07:00

The traditional 2nd anniversary gift is 'cloth'. Although we said no gifts, how could I pass that one up. So, just a quick small laptop cover for my honey. I even bypassed all my fun fabrics for these really manly picks! I used a tutorial from the 'sew mama sew' blog

#19 Your Creative Autobiography

2009-08-18T11:41:00.000-07:00

Take a breath
Say how you feel
Walk away
Ask for help
(I was taken by this conflict resolution mantra this week)

I am currently reading 'The Creative Habit, learn it and use it for life' by Twyla Tharp. The book is a work book for creativity. As the challenge this week complete Twyla's 'Creative Autobiography'.

1. What is the first creative moment you remember?
2. Was anyone there to witness or appreciate it?
3. What is the best idea you've ever had?
4. What made it great in your mind?
5. What is the dumbest idea?
6. What made it stupid?
7. Can you connect the dots that led you to this idea?
8. What is your creative ambition?
9. What are the obstacles to this ambition?
10. What are the vital steps to achieving this ambition?
11. How do you begin your day?
12. What are your habits? What patterns do you repeat?
13. Describe your first successful creative act?
14. Describe your second successful creative act?
15. Compare them.
16. What are your attitudes toward: money, power, praise, rivals, work, play?
17. Which artist do you admire most?
18. Why are they your role models?
19. What do you and your role models have in common?
20. Does anyone in your life regularly inspire you?
21. Who is your muse?
22. Define muse.
23. When confronted with superior intelligence or talent, how do you respond?
24. When faced with stupidity, hostility, intransigence, laziness, or indifference in others, how do you respond?
25. When faced with impending success or the threat of failure, how do you resond?
26. When you work, do you love the process or result?
27. At what moments do you feel your reach exceeds your grasp?
28. What is your ideal creative activity?
29. What is your greatest fear?
30. What is the likelihood of your above answer happening?
31. Which of your answers would you most like to change?
32. What is your idea of mastery?
33. What is your greatest dream?

Once you post your answers to the above questions also post what you took away from the exercise.

#18 Giving

2009-08-18T11:30:00.001-07:00

Great article. I sent the link to a few of my friends working in the 'not for profit' world, who are dependent on the generosity of others to continue the amazing work they do.

Two things really came to me in reading the article. First, to start thinking about how to involve my son in our volunteering and financial giving in the future.

Second, it solidified my desire to continue our support of Colorado Youth at Risk monetarily. Particularly in this financial climate when writing the check each quarter becomes more difficult.

www.coloradoyouthatrisk.org

Challenge 18 - Giving Is Good

2009-08-02T10:25:00.000-07:00

This week read or listen to an address about giving by Dr. Arthur C. Brooks, president of the American Enterprise Institute, in February of 2009 at a BYU forum. You can either listen to it or read it. Write your thoughts about the address and one thing you're going to do differently because of reading and/or listening to it.

Celebration Creation

2009-07-28T21:10:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I went on my first camping trip of the summer. In honor of that celebration and to make it easier and faster to go on other camping trips in the future, I created a camping kit. The camping kit is a large tote that houses most things you need on a camping trip so you don't have to round them all up every time you want to head out on an outdoor adventure.

The kit contents include:
-matches
-paper products for meals
-a bottle of watered down dish detergent for hand washing
-a container of cooking utinsels (like spatulas, a wire whisk, etc.)
-an assortment of plastic bags (all sizes and varieties)
-hot pads
-dish towels
-toilet paper
-a tablecloth
-salt and pepper shakers
-durable plastic glasses and utinsels for eating (so they can be washed and reused)

Eventually, I want to add several other things to my kit like:
-string for a clothes line
-newspaper for starting fires

Now that I'm ready for camping, I hope that the outdoor overnight excursions continue through the rest of the summer!

#17 Celebrate

2009-07-23T10:55:00.000-07:00

Today is a very exciting time in my life.
I am on a wonderful adventure and will never
go through this particular experience again.

As it is my 2nd wedding anniversary this week, I'm in a celebratory mood. So this short weeks challenge (sorry for the late post) is to create something for a celebration. Be it food, cards, crafts or whatever you dream up. Photos and post on monday!

#16 New Friend?

2009-07-22T08:48:00.001-07:00

I'm not sure if I would qualify Tom as a "new friend" but it was an interesting evening.

I was out watering my front yard when Tom walked up. He was obviously 'tripping' on something but jovial enough. He proceeded to walk up and down our block talking with me and pulling weeds from my neighbors yards. At one point he even watered my neighbors plants. He was super chatty until he noticed Cary sitting on the front porch. Embarrassed he asked if that was my husband. When I responded "yes" he left to garden elsewhere.

#15 JEANS

2009-07-22T08:46:00.000-07:00

My "try something new" turned into a much longer project then expected. I made a pair of jeans. They turned out great and I would love to show you BUT our camera is not working. So, you will have to wait until it is fixed. For now I'm just happy to be finished with the challenge from June 25th. Whew!

New Friend Jana

2009-07-20T21:30:00.000-07:00

Jana Chapman is a summer intern in our offices. Last week I took Jana to lunch and made a new friend out of her.

Three things I learned about Jana:
1. She grew up in Virginia
2. She thinks deeply
3. She has been the recipient of unexpected miracles

One thing Jana and I have in common:
1. We both love learning and designing instructional materials

Challenge #16 - Make a New Friend

2009-07-13T23:02:00.000-07:00

This week, make a new friend by talking to someone you don't know (or know by name only) at your office, in your neighborhood, or when you're out and about. Learn at least three things about them and find one thing you have in common. Document your experience by next Monday.

A New Connection Point

2009-07-13T22:59:00.001-07:00

During the last week I, with the input of a cousin, created a family blog for the extended Allen family. Our goal is to keep better connected and to strengthen our somewhat waning relationships as we continue to spread out around the country. Happily, "Proud to Be Allen" is off to a great start!

#15 New & Fresh Challenge

2009-06-25T10:19:00.000-07:00

Stay Inspired!

This week, create something new. Try something you have never attempted before. Document and post next Monday.

#14 What's a garlic scape?

2009-06-24T14:10:00.000-07:00

This was a perfectly timed challenge as our CSA (community supported agriculture) delivered our first box of veggies for the year this week - Hurray!!!

Spinach
Red Leaf Lettuce
Green Leaf Lettuce
Tuscan Kale
Curly leaf Kale
Rhubarb
Radishes
Beets
Garlic Scapes

To celebrate we fixed a feast with our neighbors who we split our farm share with.

The menu was:
Pasta primavera (Kale)
Green Salad (Radishes, Spinach, Lettuce)
Roasted Beets with feta
Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp

We also juiced Kale, Beet Greens, Carrots and a few apples!

The surprise in our box was garlic scapes. This little green is a bit like a green onion, but with a mild garlic flavor. They are part of the garlic plant which needs to be removed when growing garlic to help form big juicy bulbs. So its a win, win. Great bulbs later, yummy garlic scapes now. Lightly sauted they add a bit of garlic to any dish or a kick when chopped fresh sprinkled on any dish.

New Peas and Potatoes

2009-06-22T20:44:00.000-07:00

We've definitely had enough rain to water our gardens in Utah this year. Our only concern is getting enough sunshine between rainstorms to help the plants grow. Luckily, the sun has been out enough to yield new red potatoes and peas locally so I made a summertime favorite this week - new peas and potatoes.

The dish is very easy to fix. You quarter and boil the new potatoes (leaving the skins on) and shell and boil the peas separately. While the peas and potatoes are boiling, make a white sauce out of milk, flour, salt, and butter. When the white sauce is thick and the potatoes and peas are ready, combine them together and serve them immediately. The resulting meal is light and absolutely delicious - perfect for a summer evening!

Challenge 14 - Garden Fresh

2009-06-16T22:25:00.000-07:00

This week create a dish with garden fresh vegetables and/or fruits. Summer's on and so is fresh produce - hooray! Share your recipe and/or photos of your creation by Monday of next week.

Cards on the way...

2009-06-16T22:24:00.001-07:00

My cards are works in progress right now. I'll finish off this post when they're complete.

#13 How does your garden grow

2009-06-15T19:12:00.001-07:00

Gardening note cards for my beautiful neighbor Charlene, whom I love to share my gardening with. I loved this periwinkle tissue paper and thought it paired nicely with the buttons and extra green envelopes I had sitting around. Thanks to Charlene for the photos as my camera is broken!

The Future is Indeed Bright!

2009-06-10T22:36:00.000-07:00

I have faith that great things (even miracles) are brought about by small and simple acts.
I have faith in sunshine - it brings out the best in people.
I have faith in children - they are our bright hope for the future.
I have faith that God exists and watches over all of His children on earth.
I have faith in the power of the human spirit to overcome great odds.
I have faith in exercise, good nutrition, and healthy living.
I have faith in using natural means to cure illnesses and heal the body and soul.

#13 Write it down

2009-06-09T09:23:00.001-07:00

When I find myself fading, I close my eyes and realize my friends are my energy

This week create two sets of note cards. One for you and one for a friend. You can use any medium you would like. Post photos of the finished product next week.

#12 Faith

2009-06-09T08:24:00.000-07:00

Farmer John

I did not record daily those things that I have faith in, but I did think about it often this week. Most of my musing were about those things that scare me in this world and what kind of faith I have in the world, people and myself to change them.

I watched two documentaries this week that focused on one of those subjects that keep me up at night, food. That seems funny to type but I think it is one of the scariest subjects in the world today. I watched 'The Real Dirt on Farmer John' and 'The future of food'. These movies focus on the rise of chemical and industrial farming industry, the environmental degradation, health concerns and loss of small family farms.

While I watch movies like these, my heart aches and I think how will we survive, are we setting our civilization up for failure. I wallow without seeing an out, my faith is temporarily put to the side. Luckily as I wallow the movies change and talk about those who are fighting, changing and turning the tide. My faith is sparked and I think about the 2000 acre organic farm I am a member of and how my choice to only buy organic produce that is produced locally really is fighting and can make a difference.

So today I have faith in consumer power, organic farmers and my son. I often wonder if bringing a child into the world today is a good idea. Then I spend time with him and take in all his light and goodness and I know that the world needs more light like him and that he will help repair the damage we have done.

To learn more about CSA's (Community Supported Agriculture) in your area contact www.localharvest.org or in Colorado www.grantfarms.com

#11 Gorilla Gardening

2009-06-09T08:19:00.001-07:00

My surprise warm fuzzy came in the form of gorilla gardening. I live very urban and often times the very small front yard landscapes are forgotten and become overgrown. Last week I would slip out of the house after 9:00pm and secretly pull weeds. One advantage to living urban is we have lots of street lights that make moonlight gardening easy to accomplish. I received many compliments from passerby's as I frantically worked trying not to get caught.

Challenge #12 - A Bright Future

2009-05-31T20:41:00.001-07:00

“The future is as bright as your faith.” - Thomas S. Monson

This week strive to act based on and be filled with faith. Create a list of things in which you have faith by writing down at least one thing you have faith in every day. Post your list by the end of day next Monday.

Smile Away

2009-05-31T20:33:00.001-07:00

This week the challenge caused me to try to connect with more strangers than normal. As I did so, I found that the tried and true method of simply smiling worked best. (I guess that's why it is the "tried and true" method, right?!) :) No wonder my mother always counseled me to smile when I was small. Smile engage almost everyone and even disarm most people if they're uptight or not happy.

I also found that commenting on people's children or pets (especially when hiking or walking) works great to make a connection and sometimes even start a brief or extended conversation.

#11 Surprise!

2009-05-27T08:57:00.001-07:00

Follow Your Bliss!

Who doesn't love an unexpected smile or laugh, especially when it comes from a stranger or anonymous donor. This week come up with a creative way to give strangers the gift of a surprise warm fuzzy. Record your efforts and results for next weeks posting.

Steph's Unique Jewelry Piece

2009-05-26T21:47:00.000-07:00

This week I made myself a new bracelet out of various shaped blue and clear beads and fun silver bangles. I strung the beads and bangles on an elastic line so it would be easy to take off and put on. The bead/bangle pattern is fairly systematic, typical of my unique style. The color and textures are more bright and rich than much of my jewelry of the past.

#10 Unique Jewlery Piece by Julie

2009-05-24T20:42:00.001-07:00

For my unique Jewlery piece I choose to try making a fabric cuff. I used the instruction from Anna Marie Horners book 'Seams to Me'. These were really fun to make and came together quickly. I'm thinking they would make great gifts.

I used fabric left over from a quilt lining. I loved the fabric and was a little disappointed I was only using it for a quilt backing. This gave me a chance to have something that would display and highlight this fabric.

I made both a plain and ruffled version

The button loops as explained in the book, work fantastic and are very easy to make. These were a new skill for me.

I personally like the non-ruffle version for this print, although I did love that the buttons had a checked texture to match the ruffle.

Uniquely You

2009-05-18T22:27:00.000-07:00

“Do not let anyone rob you of your personal power and creativity. Always, always, always be you and revel in and stand up for your uniqueness.... Sculpt yourself into a multi-dimensional, fully-empowered, fun-loving human being.”
-Gary Lee Price, sculptor, January 2004

This week design and create a piece of jewelry that is uniquely you. Explain how it represents you and/or any symbolism behind the jewelry in your blog posting next Monday and, of course, provide a picture of the beautiful finished piece.

Shine

2009-05-18T21:02:00.000-07:00

The words" Like the moon, come out from behind the clouds! Shine" most spoke to me this week. Ever since January I have been training for the Ogden Marathon with my younger sister, Laura. Two weeks ago, Laura sustained an injury and didn't know if she'd be able to run the race on May 16 or not. Last Wednesday, May 13, she decided she wouldn't run. I was terrified to run the race alone. I told her and the rest of my family that I wasn't going to do it. Finally, on Friday, they convinced me to run the race without Laura. Both of my sisters said to me, "This is your chance to get out there and run hard. You're a fast runner. You could run a really fast race because you won't have either of us to slow you down."

Saturday morning, I intended to run the race alone, but then my pacing watch that I had borrowed from Laura was dead and I had no way of keeping track of time. Thus, I started running the race with Laura's friend and neighbor, Jen who had a pacing watch. I felt really good and had to hold myself back a bit to run with Jen, but I was still so fearful of running alone that I stayed with her until mile 18. At that time, she said to me "You can run faster than this. Go ahead." So, I mustered up courage and started running at the pace my body felt natural to do. I did that for the last eight miles. To put it in the words of the quote, I finally allowed myself to"come out from behind the clouds." Amazingly, I did "shine." I ran the last eight miles at a sub eight-minute mile pace and finished strong at 3 hours 28 minutes and 24 seconds. Ironically, though the finish time was good, it doesn't really matter to me. What matters most is that I was finally had the courage to run on my own.

Meditate

2009-05-18T20:29:00.000-07:00

I have always wanted to be a person that meditates. I've set goals about it, I've attended guided meditation, I've created a meditation alter in my home. But alas I have never had a meditation practice. Hence, this week the word meditate has stuck with me. I've been thinking about it as I water my yard, practice yoga, sew at night, cook...then I came to my realization. I am a person who meditates. I meditate while doing.

Once I had this realization I put it more into practice. I feel best when I practice yoga, just stepping on my mat is a meditation for me. I know that fitting in a full daily practice right now is an unreasonable and unattainable goal. So, I am setting one that I feel is within my reach. Each day I will step foot on my mat, get grounded and take a deep breath. Hopefully this ritual and the lure of the meditation will inspire me to do a small portion of my practice.

(this is a really weird angle, my feet look very small, they are actually very big! :))

Lucky number 9

2009-05-14T12:10:00.000-07:00

Meditate
Live purely. Be quiet.
Do your work with mastery.
Like the moon, come out from behind the clouds!
Shine
-Buddha

As I am late in posting our challenge this week, I will make it simple. Take something from the quote above the speaks to you and put it into action in your life. Whatever that looks like for you this week. Post your outcome Monday (I think I can post on time, I think I can post on time)

Random Acts of Kindness

2009-05-14T07:42:00.000-07:00

I apologize for the delay, here they are my three random acts of kindness.

#1 - My neighbor hates all things having to do with gardening. I love all things having to do with gardening, so I planted his parking strip and have committed to its care this summer.

#2 - My girlfriend works for Delta and often lets me fly for free on buddy passes. I recently used one of her buddy passes. As a thank you I made her these wool felt coasters.

#3 - Another neighbor just brought home there granddaughter and her preemie baby boy. I put together a care package of gently used items of my sons for them on mothers day.

Acts of Kindness Report

2009-05-11T22:20:00.000-07:00

As I completed the good deed challenge this past week, I learned that one of my best creative gifts and/or talents is to assemble or orchestrate the coming together of things. This is evident in the three "acts of kindness" I have chosen to report on.

1. When I learned that my parents were coming home and would be staying at my Grandma's house for a few weeks, I decided to assemble a food basket with their favorite edible items so things they like to eat would be readily available to them. It was fun to shop for and arrange all the items in the basket.

2. I bought and assembled a bouquet of flowers for my mom for Mother's Day. Arranging the flowers so the colors, textures, and sizes worked well together was fairly intriguing.

3. I took my sister-in-law's and mother's wedding rings into the jeweler to have their crowns replaced and to be cleaned for my dad and brother this past week. When I got the rings back, I wanted them to be wrapped beautiful without expending any money, so I used the plastic wrap and ribbon from the flower packaging I had purchased earlier as wrapping paper and the bow.

Challenge #8 - Good Deeds

2009-05-05T22:21:00.000-07:00

I shall pass this way but once; any good, therefore, that I can do or any kindness that I can show to any human being, let me do it now. Let me not defer nor neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again. – Henry Drummond

Do three acts of kindness for others using your creative talents and gifts. Explain what you did in photos and words by next Monday night.

Dandelions by Julie #7

2009-05-05T10:51:00.000-07:00

On my walks I collected photographs of Dandelions. I had 30, but I liked the layout of 5 x 5. Dandelions scream spring to me and make me feel carefree. Collecting these photos I became even more found of the plant for all the textures and variations it produces. These photos have my creative juices flowing, I'm thinking of all sorts of things I could use these images on and designs to make inspired by them!

Objects from the Sea

2009-05-03T09:08:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I traveled to the Oregon coast with a few friends, seeking rejuvenation and solace. Walking on the beach daily brought peace to my soul and joy to my heart. My finds for this week come from my walks along the beach - rocks of all shapes, compositions, and textures worn and weathered by the sea. I didn't make any permanent configuration of these rocks because I like to take them out of the bowl regularly and arrange them in various patterns on my desk.

Daily Walk Challenge #7

2009-04-21T10:11:00.001-07:00

Every morning when we wake up,
we have twenty-four brand new hours to live.
What a precious gift!
- Thich Nhat Hanh

Daily Walk: Collect objects on a walk everyday this week. Try to collect thirty. Create something with the objects. Document with photos and words next Monday!

Dinner Challenge #6

2009-04-21T09:56:00.000-07:00

Delectable Dinner using

- Walnuts
- Asparagus
- Pasta
- Apples
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Blueberries
- Yogurt

Interestingly I had just downloaded a new recipe from Orangette for roasted asparagus with a walnut crema sauce to try the day Steph's ingredient list was posted. So I felt like I was starting off ahead of the game with three of the key ingredients used. Next I did a search on Epicurious for a pasta using apples and blueberries. I found one using apples and garlic, so we went with that. Topping of the recipe search with a simple fruit salad using yogurt.

Keenan and I then headed out shopping, en route we invited the neighbors to join us for our 'challenge dinner'. We couldn't find any organic blueberries at the store, so we substituted strawberries. Otherwise we stuck with the original list. My only changes: I didn't make the chutney as we had fruit salad and I didn't add the crab meat. I also grilled the asparugus instead of roasting it.

Our neighbors Charlene and Josh come over to participate. Charlene helped in the kitchen and Josh kept Keenan entertained so I could cook. Overall we give all three recipes a thumbs up, we particularly loved the Walnut Crema.

http://orangette.blogspot.com/2009/04/truth-is.html

Roasted Asparagus with Walnut Crema and Pecorino
Adapted from A16: Food + Wine

The original version of this recipe calls for Pecorino Tartufo, a sheep’s milk cheese with black truffle, but barring that, any aged pecorino works nicely. I used Pecorino Romano. The original recipe also calls for finishing the dish with some toasted walnuts, but I skipped that part. The walnut crema carried plenty of nut flavor for me, and I thought that anything more was overkill. Maybe I’m weird. Either way, I finished mine with a squeeze of lemon, and it was a nice counterbalance to the richness of the crema.

This recipe is intended to serve six, and even if you don’t need to feed that many, I would go ahead and make the full amount of crema. It will keep in the fridge for a few days, and you can roast the asparagus as needed. (One bunch is perfect for two people.) Also, Brandon has a hunch that leftover crema would make a terrific sauce for pasta, tossed with fresh garlic, lemon, and a little Italian parsley.

For walnut crema:
Kosher salt
1 ½ cups raw walnuts
½ cup plus 1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
1 small red onion, diced (about 1 cup)

For asparagus:
3 bunches fat asparagus (about 30 spears, total)
Extra virgin olive oil
Kosher salt
1 block Pecorino Romano or Pecorino Tartufo
Lemon wedges, optional

To make the walnut crema, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the walnuts, and blanch for 8 to 10 minutes, or until tender in the middle. (I pulled mine out after 8 minutes, thinking that they seemed tender enough, but I should have left them for the full 10 minutes. My finished crema was slightly grainy, probably meaning that my walnuts weren’t soft enough.) Drain the walnuts, reserving ¼ cup of the cooking water. Set aside separately.

In a small skillet, warm 1 Tbsp. olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and a generous pinch of salt, and sweat for about 7 minutes, or until golden brown and softened. Remove from the heat.

In the bowl of a food processor, combine the walnuts, the reserved cooking water, and the onion, and process until creamy. Taste for seasoning: it will probably need a decent amount of salt. With the motor running, slowly add ½ cup olive oil, processing until blended. The crema should have the consistency of a creamy hummus. If it seems too thick, add a little water. Taste again for seasoning, and then transfer to a bowl or other container. Cover, and hold at room temperature. (Crema can be stored, tightly covered, in the refrigerator for a few days. Bring to room temperature before serving.)

Preheat the oven to 500°F. Line two baking sheets with aluminum foil.

Snap the tough ends from the asparagus spears. Rinse them, and then dry them well. Spread them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheets. Drizzle them lightly with olive oil, and roll them around, smearing the oil with your hands, to coat evenly. Season with kosher salt. Bake for about 8 minutes, shaking the pan once or twice, until blistered, slightly charred, and tender.

To serve, spoon the crema evenly across the bottom of a platter. Arrange the asparagus spears on top. Working quickly, while the asparagus is still hot, shave Pecorino generously over the platter. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil, and serve immediately, with a squeeze of lemon, if you like.

Yield: 6 (first-course) servings

Thai Curry Penne with Ginger-Tomato Chutney
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup chopped onion
1 large Granny Smith apple, peeled, cored, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons curry powder
1/2 cup dry Marsala
1 cup chicken stock or canned low-salt chicken broth
2 teaspoons fish sauce*
1 teaspoon Thai red curry paste*
1 1/2 cups canned unsweetened coconut milk*

1/2 pound penne pasta

1/2 pound crabmeat, flaked
3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Ginger-Tomato Chutney

*Available at Asian markets and in the Asian foods section of many supermarkets.

Melt butter in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, apple and garlic; sauté until onion is soft, about 6 minutes. Stir in curry powder. Add Marsala. Boil until liquid is slightly reduced, about 2 minutes. Add stock, fish sauce and curry paste. Simmer until liquid is slightly reduced, about 5 minutes. Add coconut milk. Simmer until slightly thickened, about 3 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook pasta in large pot of boiling salted water, stirring occasionally, until tender but still firm to bite. Drain well. Return pasta to pot.

Pour sauce over pasta. Stir in crabmeat. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Transfer pasta to large bowl. Sprinkle with basil. Serve with chutney.

Bon Appétit
March 1999

Fruit Salad - Julie & Charlene on the fly!

1 Pint Sliced Strawberries
2 Granny Smith Apples, cored, peeled and sliced
1 C. Plain yogurt

Delectable Dining

2009-04-20T23:58:00.000-07:00

When I mentioned this week's challenge to my sister, Laura, she indicated that she had a new pasta recipe with several of the key ingredients listed (walnuts, pasta, olive oil, garlic). So Friday night, her family came to my house and we attempted the recipe with delicious results. The recipe follows:

Fettuccine with Parsley Pesto and Walnuts and Spinach
Laura Elggren

coarse salt & ground pepper
3/4 pound fettuccine
2 cups packed fresh parsley
1/4 cup walnuts, plus more chopped for serving
1/4 cup grated Parmesan, plus more for serving
1 garlic clove
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup olive oil
5 ounces baby spinach

Method:
1)In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water; drain pasta, and return to pot.

2)In a food processor, puree parsley, walnuts, Parmesan, garlic, lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons water until a paste forms. With machine running, add oil in a thin stream; process until very smooth, about 1 minute. Season pesto with salt and pepper.

3)To pasta in pot, add pesto, 1/4 cup pasta water, and spinach; toss to combine. Thin with pasta water as needed. Serve sprinkled with walnuts and Parmesan.

We added broiled chicken to the meal and steamed green and orange vegetables to make it complete. The pasta was alive with pleasure.

I didn't use the berries and yogurt in the same meal, but I ate them earlier in the day so I hope that counts. :)

Here are a few pictures of us enjoying our delectable dining experience.

Shorter is Better

2009-04-13T23:16:00.000-07:00

Several years ago I inherited a darling skirt that was wrinkle free and easy to care for. Unfortunately, it went nearly to my toes in length. Thus, I never wore it. This week I shortened the skirt about eight inches so it is now knee length. Hooray for a new functional addition to my wardrobe.

Creative Meal Composition - Challenge #6

2009-04-13T22:58:00.000-07:00

Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions. – The 14th Dali Lama

This week compose a delectable meal incorporating the following key ingredients:
- Walnuts
- Asparagus
- Pasta of some sort
- Apples
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Blueberries
-Yogurt

Share your meal with one or more people with whom you enjoy spending time. Post pictures of your finished product(s) and the creation process if you'd like to the blog by next Monday, April 20th.

#5 - Old memories

2009-04-13T21:13:00.001-07:00

Memories of my sister making and modeling this jacket for 'Make it Yourself with Wool' the nemesis of my youth and the genius of my sewing skill.

Memories of college working as a tailor for the department store Z.C.M.I. I loved many things about that job. The repetition of mens clothing alterations that left much time to think and the challenge of women's clothing. Figuring out how to alter each and every garment.

My biggest challenge on this update was figuring out how to embelish the jacket. My original flower design once cut out was way to large for the jacket. This idea was hatched when looking at a pattern on a dish towel.

I wasn't up for modeling after a tough day with a teething toddler, I'll post photos the first chance I get to wear it.

Becoming Whole - Challenge #5

2009-04-07T18:17:00.000-07:00

Look with all your eyes, Look.
Jules Vern

We all have them uncompleted projects lying around, stashed in closets or molding in our brains. This week get a fresh perspective on an uncompleted project. Breathe new life into something. What does it need to give it that extra umph that will get you to complete it. Maybe it's a new layout or possibly a different medium. Maybe it needs to become something altogether different. Choose one uncompleted project and finish it by next Monday. Document both the finished project and where it started from.

A day late and a dollar short - Julies' #4

2009-04-07T11:09:00.000-07:00

Steph and I are following similar travels this month as last week took me and my family to Washington DC for a wedding. As I would not be home to create a fabulous spring table display. I improvised.

The wedding had fabulous spring table displays. So I used materials I could 'freely access' and drew a picture of their spring table center pieces. I borrowed a pen from the grooms uncle and took apart the wedding program to find a blank piece of paper.

The centerpiece consisted of: a metal bucket filled with branches bursting with cherry blossoms, a second metal bucket filled with pink standard tulips, a small square glass vase with white parrot tulips and three votive candles in small glasses with a middle eastern pattern. All of this was sitting on a square mirror. Simple, elegant and stunning!

Sorry for the delayed post, we were en-route home. Arriving in Denver at 11:35 pm. Because I love the idea of the spring centerpiece, Keenan and I will be creating one this week at home, we will post photos as soon as it is completed!

Steph's Spring Centerpiece

2009-04-06T21:43:00.000-07:00

I love forsythia bushes in the spring. Thus, I knew I wanted to use them in my spring centerpiece. Luckily, I found a forsythia bush on my condo property so I was able to cut off an armful of limbs in short order.

I knew that I wanted a multi-container and multi-level arrangement so I pulled about eight books out of my bookshelf and arranged them in different size stacks on my table. Next, I found an old gingham tablecloth that matched the yellow flowers to throw over the books and create additional texture. Finally, I placed a tall vase and two wide-mouth jars of varying heights on the stacks of books and filled them with the limbs. I am pleased with simple, light, and energy-giving finished product.

"Topping Off" my Bedroom

2009-03-31T22:10:00.000-07:00

I bought my fabric for my "spring top" last week. However, in place of sewing it, I made a blackout curtain for my bedroom instead. I've successfully slept in my bedroom for over two years, but recently the security light beaming through the window over my bed started keeping me up at night. Neither wearing an airplane eye cover nor pulling my sheets over my head helped me get to sleep. Thus, I decided that I must block the light source.

I found blackout fabric at the fabric store and could hardly wait test its capabilities. Since I didn't want to cover my wood blinds with a curtain, I purchased a pocket curtain rod that fit inside the window casing and sewed a straight curtain that is just a bit bigger than my window so it can reach all the edges.

After installing my curtain last night, I was excited to jump in bed and assess its effectiveness. I'm happy to report that my room was dark for the first time ever and I was asleep in minutes. Oh joy!

Maybe I'll work on my "spring top" as my unfinished project this week.

Challenge #4 - Spring Fling

2009-03-31T21:02:00.000-07:00

Live with enthusiasm, years wrinkle the skin, but to give up enthusiasm wrinkles the soul.
-General Douglas McArthur, U. S. General

In celebration of the recent vernal equinox, make a spring table centerpiece from materials you can freely access or have gathered from "nature." Chronicle both the process and your final masterpiece by next Monday.

Smashing Spring Top by Julie

2009-03-29T20:54:00.000-07:00

After weeks of 70 degree spring weather. I embarked on this weeks 'spring top' challenge looking out my window at 10" of snow. The biggest storm of the season. I couldn't resist wearing the new top even with the snow.
I tried Anna Maria Horner's 'Smashing Smock' pattern from her new book 'Seams to Me, 24 new reasons to love sewing'. I picked this book and pattern because I love, love, love her fabric designs and color combinations. If you haven't seen her work I suggest you check out her blog. annamariahorner.blogspot.com .

The patterns in the book are for mediums and she gives instructions for making them larger or smaller. I'm usually a medium so I went for it. Dug through my stash for a great fabric combo. Stayed up late sewing. It didn't fit, too small. I couldn't believe it.

First Top, too small

Once I came to terms with the fact that I would need to make another, larger version and that my 11 year old twin nieces would look smashing in the smock, I once again headed into my stash. I found a great base piece but didn't have the right coordinating piece for the yolk. After far to much fabric fun at Fancy Tiger, and extra fabric for Horner's 'Little Bo Peep' skirt. I settled on a piece by Rowan Fabrics. After adding two inches to each pattern piece the final top is roomy and comfortable. Can't wait for the next 70 degree day to give it a spin.

Second Top, just right!

My favorite part is the pale blue lining fabric!

Pale Blue Lining Fabric

Challenge #3

2009-03-23T19:57:00.000-07:00

"Amateur: one who has a taste for something, one who does something solely for the love of it without attachment to outcome." Keri Smith

This week participate in the Made by Rae "Spring Top Week - you know you want to".

http://madebyrae.blogspot.com/2009/03/spring-top-week-you-know-you-want-to.html

Please document your sewing adventure in photos and blogging! I will document our entries on the 'Made by Rae' website and flickr pool, once they are posted to our blog.

Julie's New & Old Experience

2009-03-23T19:24:00.000-07:00

My original new experience was dinner at Arada Ethiopian Restaurant on Santa Fe Street in Denver. I went with my friend Jenny who was wearing mysterious sunglasses as her eyes were dilated from an eye exam. I was taking lots of notes, I can only imagine who or what the wait staff thought we were. The vegetarian combination plate was great, I would recommend it. I also plan on eating there again. But, this new experience was not where I found my inspiration this week.

My inspiration this week came from a walk with my one year old son Keenan. Keenan is new to walking just a few weeks and very excited about it. He wants to walk everywhere especially outside. So, Sunday morning he took my finger and lead me slowly around our block. I have walked this block hundreds or times. The new experience was doing so at one year old speed. It was delightful!

Keenan helped me see details that I have never noticed before. The rock mulch in my neighbors parking strip IS very pretty and it IS hard to choose which rock you want to carry until you find something cooler. The apartment building on the corner has colored sprinkler heads, you should touch each color just to make sure they feel the same, on that same note you should touch everything and try every set of stairs you pass. Something about climbing a strangers steps with a one year old made it feel ok and not wierd. By climbing these steps we found a magnolia tree in bloom and no one seems to have missed the one blossom we picked to carry with us, stopping to smell it every so often. In the end tucking it behind my ear.

The ideas I came away with:

1. Touch everything, you will be surprised by the textures you find. Make rubbings of these textures for future projects like note cards. How could you transfer some of these textures to fabric?

2. Open your eyes to inspiration in the everyday. That night after rinsing henna from my hair I found this pattern in the bath tub. Normally I would have shrugged at the mess and cleaned the tub. That day I hurried for my camera to capture the image. Tree? Watershed?

3. Color, what differences does color make in something. Before you start your next project, consider a couple of different color schemes.

Looking forward to my next exploration in my neighborhood with Keenan!

Ideas A-Grundle

2009-03-23T18:09:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I spent time with my sister in Washington, DC. Our adventures naturally took us to places I'd never visited before so I had lots of opportunities to come up with three ideas I can implement in my work and life. Here are a few of my favorites:

1. Blueberry buckwheat pancakes are served fresh every Saturday morning at Eastern Market, close to the Capitol in DC. Though I've made thousands of pancakes in my life, I've never made any with blueberries or buckwheat in them. That definitely will change going forward. Yum!

2. We went to lots of museums, particularly those in the Smithsonian family of museums. This was great from a personal enrichment/educational perspective and from a work perspective because my team creates kiosks and exhibits located in LDS Church visitor centers around the world. The Museum of American History had a cool area for kids that I particularly liked because it contained many interactive exhibits. One exhibit highlighted American inventors and gave kids lots of opportunities to create things out of various materials. The Sparks lab was one of those invention/creation stations where kids could literally conduct their own experiments. Another station provided a place for kids to create their own pinball "obstacle course" out of regular household utinsels. My sister and I thought the "obstacle course" we created was pretty cool. My takeaway from that experience is to work with my team to devise ways to incorporate more interactive elements within our exhibits as a result of my DC museum experiences.

3. Another great idea I learned from my sister was to create novel stir fry compilations. One night we had a stir fry medley of eggplant, green beans, asparagus, green olives, and baby tomatoes sautéed in olive oil and a little apple juice concentrate and lime juice. The, to me, unusual combination turned out to be entirely delicious. I'm definitely going to be more creative in my vegetable compilations in the future.

The Second Challenge

2009-03-16T20:05:00.000-07:00

Learning is not obtained by chance, it must be sought for with ardor and attended to with diligence. -Abigail Adams

Challenge #2:
Visit a place you've never been before and look for things you can learn from the experience and place. Come away from the experience with three ideas you can implement into your work or personal life/space. Post your three ideas (and any resulting applications) by next Monday.

Julie's Display Board

2009-03-16T20:01:00.000-07:00

I was very excited to start on our first challenge/project. Tuesday night after my son Keenan was asleep I went looking for materials around our house. I started in the basement looking for some kind of base material. The first thing I considered was a big piece of soft foam that had come as packaging with a laptop computer. It was very squishy and although I thought it would work I wondered how you would attach things to it securely. Next I found left over foam insulation from installing our window air conditioning units. I decided this was perfect.

I then headed for my fabric stash which turned out to be a bit tricky as it is all stored in cloth boxes with Velcro closures in my son's room. So I had to carry each bin out of the room individually to open it and look for the right background fabric. I came upon this piece of fabric which oddly enough my ex-husbands great grandmother had given me around ten years ago. Normally I would have gone with something brighter and funkier, but it was going to be hanging in our bedroom (my current sewing area) and I needed it to be something my husband wouldn't mind. This was the perfect fit.

Watching online TV while working on the project (my guilty pleasure)

Ready to add the ribbon

The foam insulation proved to be very easy to work with. First I cut it to size with a utility knife (leaving little foam pellets on the floor for the cats to play in). Next I wrapped the foam with the fabric and stapled it to the back. Then I pulled the velvet ribbon pieces tightly and stapled to the back. Almost too easy. I was finished in about an hour. Since the fabric has a "map" theme I thought attaching things with stick pins would look like marking a map with places you have been or I can tuck things behind one of the ribbon bands.

Finished project ready for inspirations!

I was excited to finish so quickly and my husband even loved the final product. My only disappointment was that I finished the project so quickly and would have to wait until Monday to see Stephanie's version.

Stephanie's "Board Adaptation"

2009-03-16T19:50:00.000-07:00

While I loved the idea of the "create an idea board" challenge, I knew early in the week that this was going to be more difficult than probably expected for two reasons: 1) I had few raw materials to utilize and 2) I have little wall space in my work room where I wanted the board to be located.

I stewed over and over the possibilities most of the week. Nothing seemed to be "the right solution." Mid week I had the idea to stray from the "board" concept, but returned to it quickly because I felt I needed to stick more closely to the assignment.

Finally, I returned to the "non-board" idea. Here's the final outcome, which, by the way, I love! I decided to use the front of my food storage shelves as idea-posting places. I particularly like this solution because I have lots and lots of space to post creative ideas (four full-length shelves full of space) and the creative ideas are literally right in front of my face whenever I walk into the room.

First Challenge

2009-03-09T09:39:00.000-07:00

We shall not cease from exploration
and at the end of all our exploring
will be to arrive where we started
and know the place for the first time.
-T.S. Eliot, "The Four Quartets"

Challenge #1
Using only materials you can source for free, be that already owned, begged, borrowed or found. Make a display board for your ideas and things that inspire you to create. Please document your process and the final piece for posting by next Monday.