The Peony and The Bee

psst!

2011-01-03T11:26:00.000-05:00

Pssst! Come and see me over here.

nesting?

2010-09-13T15:57:00.002-04:00

Yes, yes, I'm alive.

I apologize for being such a blog slacker as of late, but I've been busier than I ever thought I would be now that I'm home full time. Things are starting to slow down a bit and I'm hoping to find some sense of a routine now that all of my house projects are almost finished (I never realized how fast little projects add up!). In all honesty, I think I've spent a grand total of five minutes online since leaving the shop. I'm taking a wee little break, but I promise to resume my job of being a bitter old blogger soon. Very soon. I miss you all and have lots to tell you about! Hope you're all well!

farewell

2010-08-27T10:57:00.003-04:00

"I had never before, nor have I since, been so happy to have no idea what I was doing with my life."

- Molly Wizenberg, A Homemade Life

I really loved this book as a whole, but the above quote grabbed me at first read (so much so that I underlined it and dog-eared the page) and I haven't stopped thinking about it since. Maybe the timing made it special with the closing of the business and my life in full upheaval and all. But whatever the reason, it means a lot to me. I really do love not knowing what's coming next for me. It's liberating, to say the very least.

Anyway, I just wanted to post a little something to let the local folks know what's going on tonight. This will be my very last Troy Night Out and my very last day at the shop. We'll be closed tomorrow while I remove the remainder of my things and turn the keys over to the new owner. So, it's time to clean house. I don't want to take the rest of my merchandise home with me, so we're marking it all down and EVERYTHING MUST GO!

Here's the scoop:

50% off baby apparel (onesies, shorts and bibs only...some hats included)
50% off select winter scarves and hats
50% off most jewelry
50% off all handbags
50% off select plush items and teddy bears

There are a few more deals there too, but my mind is slipping. Stop by and see if you can find a little something for yourself. And hey, Christmas is coming faster than you think. Time to buy gifts!!! Wine, dips and munchies will be served in the gallery.

I hope to see you there! So bittersweet!

P.S. There are two artists represented in the rear gallery TONIGHT ONLY! Their work is fantastic and the prices are superb. Come show them your support!

yard stuffs

2010-08-25T00:00:00.004-04:00

just playin' around out back.

done, son.

2010-08-21T10:22:00.004-04:00

Okay, so now I can talk about what's been going on here these days. I had to hold off until the paperwork was finalized, meetings happened, everyone was on the same page and the logistics were all figured out.

Sooooo, with that said, I'd like to announce here and now that The Paper Sparrow has been sold.

My original plan was to stick it out until my lease expired (March 31st of 2011), sell off the remaining merchandise and fixtures, and just close my doors completely. But then someone saw this post and gave me a call. The timing couldn't have been better, the deal was right on and we both want to see the business go on instead of shutting down. So folks, effective September 1st, the business will be in new hands. My official last day will be Friday, August 27th, which just so happens to be a Troy Night Out, and the following day the shop will be closed while I remove some of my personal belongings, have a little party for those folks who have helped out along the way and say goodbye to the other business owners down here. It's bittersweet, that's for sure, but I'm happy. It's time for me to move on and try something new, but I still plan to support the businesses and restaurants in Troy as often and as much as I possibly can.

So stop by sometime between now and Friday and say hello (or goodbye), and please continue to support this business. The new owner is sweet and has many big plans for the space. The name will change and she's planning a new look for the store. She's keeping many of the same consignors my customers have loved since I opened, but bringing in lots of new ones too. I like to think of it as a breath of fresh air in the space, and that means so much more to me than leaving this place vacant.

I'll miss my customers, my neighbors, and the new friends I've made since opening these doors two and a half years ago. Troy is an amazing place, one that I'd given up on years ago, but it has come a very long way. It's so nice to be a part of such a fantastic community with great people and a friendly, welcoming environment. I hope to always be a part of it.

Thanks to all of you for everything. Oh, and please check in at thepapersparrow.com from time to time because I'll keep it updated with a list of places where you can find the merchandise I make, plus an announcement of the new venture I'm considering jumping into. Stay tuned!!!

wishful thinking?

2010-08-20T10:02:00.009-04:00

I'm not sure what the conditions are like in your neck of the woods, and perhaps this is just a matter of wishful thinking, but I'm noticing little hints of autumn popping up all over the place.

Leaves are changing (and falling!) here and there, the weather is cooling down and the air has that crisp, clean smell about it, sweaters and jackets are making their appearance in stores (eeeee! velvet blazers!), the moon is starting to get that golden glow, and, most importantly, my toad lilies are starting to bud and bloom!

I find this to be slightly alarming because, let's face it, it's still only August.

Signs of autumn only start to show up here in late September, so something is a bit off, but I'm enjoying it so much!

How will I celebrate this?

* A trip here for sure for lunch and shopping.

* A trip here with The Lo for pumpkins, apples and the like.

* Two words: Garlic. Festival.

* A day spent making a humongous batch of tomato jam (I make something similar but couldn't find the exact recipe online...my recipe coming soon!)

* Wearing these entirely too much, along with something very similar to this and this found at a thrift store for a fraction of the cost.

* Far too many nights taking shots of the moon.

* Long walks. More walks. And more walks just about anywhere.

* More soups and stews than we'll know what to do with. You're crazy not to make that stew, by the way.

* Baking, baking....oh, and baking.

Bring on the tights and pumpkins!!!

I'm more than ready.

I miss Oz

2010-08-19T10:24:00.001-04:00

I used to be a huge fan of the show Oz. Ever watch it? Anyway, Dean Winters was my favorite actor on that show, and while I was bit weirded out when I noticed him doing Allstate commercials, this one takes the cake.

"I'm all, OMG!, Becky's not even hot!"

Great stuff.

Cinnamon Chicken

2010-08-18T04:33:00.001-04:00

I haven't the slightest clue as to why I didn't know about this sooner, but after reading this post I realize that I MUST have this book. I'm adding it to my birthday wish list, along with these. Yeah.

uh oh...

2010-08-17T10:46:00.003-04:00

I'm almost afraid to post this...

I've been dreading this drawing for the past few days. Not because of the roller derby thing. Not because of the margaritas. Shit, even the "Good Girls" tattoo wasn't freaking me out. But the one dare I was really hoping wouldn't pop up...uh...popped up.

So, my darling husband dared me to eat not one, but two Double Downs from KFC, and I'm nauseous just thinking about it. Stay tuned. Photos to come, and hopefully there will be no shots of me spewing chunks. I don't know. Mike has big plans for this one. We'll see.

Thanks for playing!...I think.

dare me

2010-08-12T10:53:00.005-04:00

Do you know what today is???

It's my 3 year blog birthday!!! While I find it hard to believe that I've actually stayed committed to anything for three years, it's true! I've been a diligent blogger and a lax blogger at the same time, but I'm just proud of myself for sticking with this for so long. Posts are hard to come up with sometimes because, well, life can be pretty monotonous, and some days I'm just not feeling clever. So, after thinking long and hard for a way to celebrate this occasion, Mike and I put our heads together and came up with a plan.

Ready for this?

I want you to strap your thinking caps on and come up with a dare for me. This can't be anything illegal, obviously. I don't want to do something that will land my ass in jail. But let's have some fun with this. Send me on a mission, give me something to do. Want me to stand in a public place with a crazy sign? Build a spaceship? Film myself changing a poopy diaper? Be creative and clever. I plan to photo document this and post it here. You have four days to complete this mission. The winner's name will be drawn at random from a hat on Tuesday, August 17th, and I'll get to work on completing the task. Ready? Set? GO!

Who steals a basil plant anyway?

2010-08-11T13:51:00.004-04:00

Poor Bianca did such a gorgeous job on her window boxes this year (fresh herbs! what could be better???) and someone keeps stealing her plants.

Who does something like this? Is this a random destructive act or was someone seriously in such desperate need for pesto that they'd resort to stealing?

From the looks of it, someone reached down to the base of the stem and yanked the plant right out of the box.

I'll never understand people.

why kids can sometimes rock

2010-08-07T17:27:00.003-04:00

Me: "Hey, Lo, what's your mermaid's name?"

Lola: "Ummm....Sushi."

breathin'

2010-08-06T13:22:00.002-04:00

Yes, yes, I'm alive. I'm busy, but I'm alive. Lots of HUGE things going down around here lately. Good things, but not things I can talk about quite yet. No, I'm not pregnant. More to come, I promise! Hang in there.

I'd also like to take a moment to wish one of my very favorite people in the world a very happy birthday! Keith, I adore you more than words can say. Have a great birthday, killer!

36 years young

2010-08-01T17:45:00.005-04:00

So Kate had the brilliant idea to throw a Sesame Street themed birthday party (and preferably a "pre-Elmo" Sesame Street party since we're all super nostalgic children of the 70's) for Dave this year. We headed down to Peebles Island for a nice picnic lunch, some volleyball (found out the hard way that my volleyball "skills" have miraculously disappeared since high school) and an overall great time. Happy Birthday, Dave! I know the actual date is a few days away, but it's never too soon.
More photos here.

P.S. Thanks for the get well wishes yesterday. I'm feeling much better today.

I'll be on the couch if you need me.

2010-07-31T11:03:00.003-04:00

Food poisoning can blow me...

but at least I have my co-pilot by my side.

french

2010-07-29T19:57:00.000-04:00

I've decided recently that I'd like to learn to speak French.

Growing up I soaked up the Spanish language, mostly because I figured I'd use it more, I liked the teacher more, and my dad is pretty fluent in Portuguese (the two languages are pretty similar) and I figured he could help me through the learning process. I loved the language and enjoyed taking classes, but I've lost most of what I've learned since graduating high school. Rather than freshening up on what I've already learned, I want to dive into something new. I never really cared either way about the French language or French culture, but now I'm suddenly interested. Must be all of those food books I've been reading.

What's the best way to learn? I've heard marvelous things about the Rosetta Stone software, but I don't know if I can commit to sitting at a computer to learn a language. I've thought about taking actual classes, but would rather not do something like that alone (who would I practice with???). Do you have any suggestions? Have you learned a language outside of a classroom? Any pointers for me?

just a thought.

2010-07-28T10:30:00.006-04:00

Thanks for the skirt love yesterday, kids! I successfully wore it the entire day, rolled around with the dog while wearing it, grilled burgers for the boys in it, and walked home from work through very windy conditions, and nary a soul had to witness my naughty bits. Ahem. As much as I complained about how large the skirt is (and how far it wraps around my bod), it certainly makes for a confident strut when my hands are full and the wind is blowing half of my skirt over my head.

Anyway...

I had an interesting conversation with a business owner this morning. She and I discussed the economy and the financial mess this country has gotten itself into, and yet business is still pretty good for the both of us. People are out buying, and while they might be buying less, or being selective about the things they DO spend their money on, they're still spending.

But I've noticed something lately...

and I'm sure someone somewhere can and will come along and whip the numbers out of their ass to prove me wrong....

and maybe this is only happening here in this part of the country, or maybe I'm simply imagining it completely...

but it seems as though folks are starting to think about the kind of impact their money has in this world and may be spending it in places that count...small businesses, farmers' markets, craft fairs. I've had customers come into the shop and explain that they stay away from chain stores and big box stores ever since the economy took a nosedive, because they feel the only way to fix the problems we're dealing with now is to start at the bottom and work with the little people. A "redistribution of wealth", as one customer put it. That makes a lot of sense. The old way wasn't working, so let's go back to where we were when it DID work. I like that.

And like I said, I'm sure I'm wrong and there are numbers floating out there to prove it (I know I can't compete with Walmart's prices), but I like to live for just a while in this fantasy world of mine where people really do care, really do pay attention to where their money goes and the impact it has on all of us. I like to think that the number of people shopping at our local farmers' market has doubled (some even say the number has tripled) because people want to do something good for others, something good with their lives, and maybe even improve their health at the same time. It has to start small, and it has to start somewhere. I read the statistics recently on the drastic increase of people growing their own food, not only to save money but to teach their children and their peers that food doesn't always have to come in a box or a can, no matter how convenient. There's always a choice out there. It's just a matter of looking for it and choosing the right option for you and your family.

I'd like to think that maybe we're collectively starting to move into a whole new way of thinking and living, and I can only hope that we'll be a more responsible people when we get there.

The cynical part of me wants to erase this post completely for sounding like such a dreamer, but I know that as people, we're all capable of real change.

Go here to find out how your money can directly benefit your community instead of disappearing overseas.

trial run

2010-07-27T12:15:00.003-04:00

So, I finally made one complete skirt. I managed to squeeze it out in less than an hour and I'm pretty happy with this version. I went with the dimensions meant for a size medium, but added a bit of length and a few darts in the back to cinch in the waist a bit. I also ditched the idea of using quilt binding to finish the bottom hem and just opted for a basic rolled edge. I love it.

Of course, I'm a paranoid mess today...a normal reaction for me on days when wearing a homemade piece of clothing out in public for the first time. What if the hem gives out? What if the ties come loose and my skirt falls off? What if I just look like an asshole walking around in this thing? Either way, the skirt is comfy and cute. If I can make it through an entire day with little to no problem, I'll be making more tonight. A new collection of skirts for little money? Yes please!

So what do you think? I need to shorten the ties for sure. I didn't realize until looking at the photos. Aside from that, though, any suggestions?

for you cold hearted folks

2010-07-26T17:04:00.006-04:00

Loved this movie. Loved it. I'm feeling like poo today and decided to slob around the house and catch up on some movies. I'm thrilled that I decided to go with this one. The perfect romantic movie that wasn't really all that romantic. Just like the tagline says, "This is not a love story. This is a story about love". Very Annie Hall. And hey, Joseph Gordon-Levitt really grew up into a scrumptious little man, didn't he? Yum. Check it:

have you seen this???

2010-07-24T11:49:00.003-04:00

Somehow, "lucky to be alive" doesn't quite cover it, right??? Crazy stuff.

big softy

2010-07-23T02:48:00.003-04:00

I have a soft spot for teacher movies and documentaries. You know, Dead Poets Society, Mr. Holland's Opus, Lean on Me, etc. A big part of me wanted to be a teacher from the time I was old enough to even consider such things (Laura Ingalls Wilder had a lot to do with that), until I was a junior in college. I finally switched majors once concerns of not knowing enough about art myself to teach it to other people plagued me on a daily basis. I went through with a very long student teaching process and enjoyed it, but it just didn't feel right and I never went back. I don't consider it to be a regret at all, but sometimes I wonder what life would be like now had I stayed on the same path. Anyway, yeah, teacher movies.

I just spent the last two hours watching this documentary and it was fantastic. If you're interested in this sort of thing, I must say that it was one of the better movies I've seen in a while, and I even shed a few tears at the end. Imagine that.

on the agenda

2010-07-21T14:20:00.007-04:00

Well hey there, folks!

Ever have one of those blog days where you have lots to talk about, but nothing you really can talk about? I'm in the middle one of those days, so if this post seems scattered it's because my brain is working a million different ways all at the same time.

Let's see...what's been going on here? I've tested out the skirt pattern and I love it. I had a slight problem with the sizing, but that's something that's easily fixed. I automatically went with the dimensions to make a size large (the skirt pattern can be made as a small, medium or large) and the large was WAY too large. So I cut it down to a medium and thought I had a winner, but I guess the medium is a bit too big also. So I'm going to attempt a small despite the fact that I can't remember a time when I ever wore a small anything. We shall see. I plan to make some skirts for Randi (who is suffering through the extreme heat and humidity in Florida) but if I wear a small, what the hell will I make for her? The skirt is adorable, though, and I got compliments on the medium, saggy baggy and all. Super cute. The photo above features the fabrics up next in line for skirty goodness. Can you tell I'm going through a gold/brown phase?

My wonderful father turned another year older today. He hates it when people make a big deal out of it, so I figure I'll just hide this mid-post to avoid the lecture later on. But yes, today is the big day, so I now have an excuse to make the "Chocolate Death" cake. This cake is, by far, the most amazing chocolate cake ever to cross your lips, but it's so rich and decadent you just have to have an excuse to make it. This isn't your average bake sale cake, or something you make when you have your girls over for tea and gossip. This is a serious cake. My dad loves it, so I'm making it for him. He deserves such a luxury. Happy Birthday, Pop!

Dug out a small ton of Columbine from my garden. I randomly planted some seeds around the beds a few years back assuming that it's Columbine so therefore I'd automatically love it. Not so. This is that white Columbine (Aquilegia vulgaris) that looks more like a weed than anything else and it just takes over everything. So I dug it out, bagged it up and gave it to my mom who wanted it for her back yard. The huge gaps left behind in my front beds just screamed out (in their best Evil Dead voices) "hey crazy, go to Faddegons and buy something new...fill us...fill us!!!", so I went. Folks, I know I've said it before and I'll say it a million times over, I love that place. The selection, the gift shop, the staff, the general vibe of the place...it's all just so fantastic. Got a great deal on some black eyed susans, some tick weed, and some bee balm and it just looks so great. I re-mulched with a nice, chunky pine that looks more like rusty driftwood than anything else, and everything is just so neat and tidy now. Our house looks like someone lives there! Hooray! I have some work to do on the front porch, painting and re-screening and then our house will really look lived in. I can't wait. I love projects.

Oh! How could I forget? I made Mexican Chocolate Ice Cream. How marvelous! I've made lots of homemade ice cream before, and I prefer a cooked base over an instant one by far. I was really shocked at how quickly the custard set up for this recipe. Super thick, very rich, and just the right amount of cayenne pepper and cinnamon. Delicious. If you own an ice cream maker, you must make this. You'll thank me for it. By the way, I use Simply Recipes to find most of my ice cream recipes. Something about the recipes there offer so much more than other recipes I've tested. Lots to choose from!

I think that's about it. Aside from these things I've been stressing a bit, watching too much television, balancing the tv out with lots of reading and crossword puzzles, and making plans. Lots to think about these days.

skirt fix

2010-07-19T01:48:00.000-04:00

The last skirt pattern worked well last year, but I wasn't completely satisfied. I'm currently living in skirts and t-shirts (with a smattering of light weight dresses mixed in for the super hot days) this summer, and plan to keep the skirt wearing going straight through fall and winter.

I wanted something a little more polished and little more complex than a basic tube-with-elastic skirt. So, I searched around and decided on this pattern here. In one word, LOVE. I've only made one so far, but have enough fabric chosen to make six more. Wrap skirts are my new fave and with a pattern this simple, why not make an entire new wardrobe? A yard and a half of fabric will be more than enough. The pattern calls for two prints, one for the main body and one for the trim and ties, but I've chosen to take the cheater way out and use a double fold bias tape to finish off the bottom and add ties to the top.

Photos of my own skirts to come as I make more...maybe this weekend. Photos shown here are courtesy of the Make It Perfect website.

T.G.I.F.

2010-07-18T01:31:00.004-04:00

I know, I know, it's not Friday. But it's my Friday and I'm so happy it finally arrived. So, what did I do with my night?

Cherry Cobbler, baby.

weekend planzzzzzzz

2010-07-16T11:02:00.005-04:00

If you live in the area, you must make a pilgrimage to the Troy area for the annual Troy Pig Out! It's particularly evil, in my humble opinion, to force the business owners to stay put in their shops while the smells of barbecue waft in from the streets, but we manage...barely. Saturday features several chef demonstrations, live music, more food than you'll know what to do with, fireworks, and the rib competition. If you're a rib connoisseur like I am (ribs are tied with nachos as my all time favorite food), and want to get in on the madness, here's how it works:

Tickets go on sale at 4:00
$1.00 a ticket, one ticket gets you one rib
Buy 5 tickets, get a "voting ticket"
Try them all (lots to choose from)
Cast your vote
Ticket sales will raise money for the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure

Tickets are limited to 8,000 this year, so act fast. If you're not interested in voting in the rib contest, just stuff your face at any of the other food vendors there, no tickets needed. You'll thank yourself, but wear your fat pants!

Sunday features more chef demos, live music, and the main event, Best in Show for chicken, pork ribs, pork butt/shoulder and beef brisket. Awards will be given out at 4:00.

This is such a good time, folks. I've gone the last two years now and it's really fantastic. Great food, a great environment, and the smells...ooh the smells. Hot damn!

Oh, and FYI: For those of you who come to Troy on Saturdays for our farmers' market, please be advised that the market will be moved to River Street this week only. Pop by the shop and say hello!

AND (I promise I'm almost done), if you're looking for a bit of fun this evening, be sure to head on over to Cohoes and hit up Bread and Jam for some delicious food and the music of one of my local faves, Sean Rowe. Mmmmm, paninis and that voice. Heaven, I tell you.

Hope to see you at both events!!!

pumpkins and shoe porn

2010-07-15T02:16:00.000-04:00

Wow! I haven't made it through the entire month of July yet and I'm already fantasizing about autumn. Normally I can make it through mid-August (at least!) before even thinking about it, but how can one ever resist the dreamy ideal of cardigan sweaters, tights, pumpkins, dry crisp air, leaves, and most importantly, not sweating? It's been one hell of a hot summer thus far here in the northeast, something we haven't had to deal with in many years. Anyway, since I can't do a thing about the heat, at least I can start preparing myself for a cooler time of year, right? I'm due for a new pair of shoes for fall/winter/spring and this year I think I'm going to be breaking my Keen buying habit and opt for something different. Last winter I tried on my first pair of Dansko clogs and the salesman nearly had to tear them off of my feet before I left. I didn't want to take them off! They also didn't have my size, so I've been pouting about it ever since. If you own a pair you know what I'm talking about. And if you don't...well, fix that, would you??? Holy hell, they're so rad. I want a pair of black Dansko professionals in the worst way, and plan to snag myself a pair if the birthday fairy leaves behind some birthday loot for yours truly.Do you own a pair? Should I stay away from this particular model? I want the type of clog with the back on it...not a fan of the open back. I tried a pair of the red wine colored leather and they were pretty amazing, but I think black is versatile enough for just about everything. I've also been told by fellow clog lovers that you should never buy clogs online. Always try them on first. They're all made by hand and three different pairs of size 9s are each going to fit differently. So, before I take the plunge, any comments or suggestions for me?

"Unconstitutionally vague"

2010-07-14T09:39:00.003-04:00

This just totally made my day. Glad to know they're not all morons.

splurge

2010-07-13T14:48:00.004-04:00

(photo courtesy of spicestation.etsy.com)

Ben and I are trying to be a bit more frugal with our money these days, but this gal has her weaknesses, and vanilla is at the top of the weakness list. Just ask my mom. I drove her all the way to Brunswick to search for the very best vanilla extract ever (scroll down to the Madagascar Bourbon Pure Vanilla, although I've tried many of these and they're all lovely), only to find that they were sold out. So, you can imagine the squeal that escaped my lips this morning when I happened to stumble upon this little gem hidden inside the "plants and edibles" category on Etsy. Bliss.

People think I'm nuts for spending good money on things like vanilla beans/extract/paste, but it makes all the difference when I'm baking (or wearing it) and I simply can't accept that there isn't something comparable in everyone's lives. What do you splurge on?

a little too late

2010-07-11T01:26:00.002-04:00

I spent a majority of 1994-1998 in art school, and unlike some of my peers, I have no regrets. It's hard to get a job, yes, but hey, at this point it's hard to get a job anywhere! Some days, though, I wonder if I made the right choice. I sometimes wonder how different my life would be had I skipped art school and did something else entirely. The only other thing in life that has held my attention as long as the art world has is the culinary world. I sometimes fantasize about where I'd be right now had I chosen a career in the food industry instead of learning about perspective, arc welding, hues, gallery maintenance and the importance of opting for Turpenoid over Turpentine in a closed space.

And that's not to say I want to be a chef. I fear that if I ever got involved in the food industry, I'd regret it and eventually lose the peace and zen that cooking brings me. I can be pissed off, miserable and ready to take a swan dive off of a tall building and yet one step into my kitchen brings me back to normal. I love that. I love losing myself in a recipe, testing out new methods, tasting new or rare foods, shopping for ingredients, while the rest of the world just melts away. I'd like to think it's what keeps me sane. But there's always that "what if" bouncing around in the background. There's a "what if" for everyone, I guess. For me, my only regret is not learning technique. Culinary school would have taught me the necessary techniques, and therefore, made me a better cook. I've learned a lot from watching the Food Network (my knife skills have improved drastically, for example), but the two just don't compare.

Anyway, talk about bad timing. I just read about the Ballymaloe Cookery School in Ireland and I'm seriously kicking myself in the ass for not knowing about this sooner. Why didn't I know about this back when I was trying to decide what to do with my life? This would have trounced art school by far. No degrees to work for. No pressure. A short-term commitment. And an excuse to travel??? Ah yes, such is life. Anyway, a twelve week course costs over $15,000 (still significantly less than four years of art school), so this little dream of mine will have to stay on the back burner until we hit the lotto, or some long lost relative kicks the bucket and dumps their fortune in our laps. I'd say, though, for the money you spend, you walk away knowing everything from the bare bones basics to pretty advanced topics of farm-to-table cuisine. I don't know about you, but I'd love to learn the ins and outs of smoking mackerel, beekeeping, curing bacon, and making yogurt and butter. This class also covers topics such as preparing wild game and the cooking styles of France, India, Mexico, Japan, Italy, and let's not forget Ireland.

For now I'll stick with the book. This was written by Darina Allen, the founder of the Ballymaloe school, and I have a feeling I'm not going to want to put this baby down.

So, yes, I love food. No brainer, right? I love talking about food, I love reading about food, I love being around food, and well, duh, I love eating food. Lately I've been sucked into several books about food. A Homemade Life rocks, for those of you who love little stories that always go hand in hand with a good recipe. And, if you're a fan of Orangette, one of my fave blogs, you'll certainly love this book. Up next, a book recommended by Stanley at the Market Block Bookstore, Heat, by Bill Buford, and another I found while poking around the cooking section, The Hunger by John Delucie. I'll keep you posted on how these turn out. I trust Stanley's judgement, so I'm sure they'll be great!

Do you have any other faves you can recommend? I'm getting in lots of reading time on the bus every day. Keeps the crazy people from bugging me.

We Live in Public

2010-07-10T09:53:00.003-04:00

This has officially made its way to the "must see" list in my book. Caught this little gem of a documentary last night with friends and I really don't know what to think about it. It was compelling, intense, mind boggling and quite disturbing. The only other thing I can think of to say is...check it!

open question

2010-07-09T13:47:00.004-04:00

So, I'm curious about something. Maybe you can help.

I eat at Subway every day, at least once a day. It's cheap, I can easily count my points, eat a solid meal and never get bored. But Subway isn't the issue I'm trying to get into here and it's beside the point...

You see, the Subway in downtown Troy just so happens to be located in the same building as the local Planned Parenthood. Yeah, I know. Now, I'm not going to turn this post into an abortion debate because I really don't give a damn about what anyone wants or does not want to do with their own bodies. Most days there's a slew of abortion protester folks across the street carrying signs and kicking and screaming for the cause. That's fine. They have just as much right to stand there and scream as I do to walk through those doors and have the procedure done. I do, however, have to walk by them, witness the disgusting posters of graphic material and listen to them berate the escorts standing outside the door, and all I want is my damn veggie footlong!!!

So what I want to know is...why are they all crusty old men? Where are the women? I think I've seen one woman there over the last three years. What's this all about? Is this a geographical thing or does this go on where you live too? I hope you have the answer because frankly I'm more than just a bit puzzled.

loaf

2010-07-08T14:03:00.002-04:00

I know those of you who read this blog regularly probably roll your eyes back into your skulls when the obligatory Eric Bachmann / Crooked Fingers post pops up, but hey, it's that time of year I guess. Mr. Bachmann recently released another cover album, Reservoir Songs II, and it rocks. With any new album comes a tour, so here's hoping this fall tour includes a New York stop, and maybe even a Florida stop while I'm down there in November. Fingers crossed. I need a fix.

Oh, and for those old Verizon coworkers of mine who read this blog...yes, I do still do this. After 16 years it's a little hard to stop.

congrats

2010-07-07T14:22:00.003-04:00

I think congrats are in order for my friend Alex and his wife Therese now that they've officially welcomed their new (and first) baby, Mary Jane, into the family. Best wishes, you two! Better you than me! Heh.

P.S. Photo credit goes to Mr. Alex himself. I snagged this from him like the sneaky bee that I am.

at last!

2010-07-05T01:14:00.000-04:00

Hooray! IFC is now showing all episodes of Freaks and Geeks!!! Happened to stumble upon the pilot episode on Friday night and literally squealed until the dog came to see what my deal was. I have no clue why I was so excited...I own the box set of DVDs, but something about seeing it on cable makes it so much better. If you haven't had the opportunity to check this show out, please do. IFC, Friday nights at 11:00. I've also heard that IFC will follow this up with episodes of Undeclared as well, but I'm not sure yet. Check it!

long story short

2010-07-02T03:17:00.001-04:00

So, I've been going back and forth about when the right time would be to post this, and you know, I'm just going to go for it. I thought if I posted it too early I'd do nothing more than add more grief to my day, but if I waited too long I might pass up an opportunity that might make this whole thing a little bit easier to swallow. So here goes...

My lease here at the shop is up on March 31st of 2011 and I'm not re-signing. There, it's out. The Paper Sparrow will close by April 1st at the very latest.

This little shop was such a delight to run and maintain over the last three years and I'm so glad I actually took the plunge and dove in head first. I knew nothing about running a business before I first opened my doors, and honestly, I can't say that I know everything there is to know about running a business now. But I've learned so much, met a ton of amazing people and experienced something that many people have told me they've always wanted to do but never had the guts. That said, if you're considering opening a business and don't think you can do it or don't know where to begin, get those wheels rolling. You CAN do it! If you can balance a checkbook, you can run a business.

Over the past two and a half years I've grown a bit weary of being here. When I first opened my doors the economy was in full swing and people were out and spending money left and right. Everything ran smoothly and the future looked bright. Then the economy took a nosedive and people were afraid to spend a cent, and yet somehow we still persevered. Locals were more than willing to spend their hard earned money in Troy, especially in our little store here, and I can't thank everyone enough for supporting us, even when your wallet contained nothing but cobwebs. Yes, there's always stress in owning a new business. Yes, there are always hurdles to overcome to keep moving. And yes, there have been way more good times here than bad. But I'm burned out and I'm looking to get out before I simply hate this whole thing. Plus, closing means a part time job for me and a little money in my pocket to help pay the mortgage...this is a good thing. Poor Ben has been supporting me and Olive for close to three years now and he's working his tail off on his own. I want to help out (I have a few plans up my sleeve and I'll fill you in on those soon enough). We all know that you don't make any money in your first three years of business, so I'm basically working for free here. I'm not complaining, it's worth it. I'm just ready to try something new.

So that puts me right here, right now. I wasted ten years of my life working for Verizon and hating everything about the job, my life, my attitude. I was miserable. And when I left I promised myself that I'd keep moving forward and never let a job that made me unhappy hold me back. I'm starting to get that same day-to-day blah feeling all over again and I refuse to let that happen here. So I'm calling it quits. I know this is going to upset a lot of people, and I know that bailing on a community that is struggling so hard to pull itself up doesn't help things, but this is the best thing I can do for myself right now. Does that make sense? I feel selfish even writing that out.

I'm fully prepared to hear all about how I'm making a mistake, or maybe making a smart move, or just being an asshole. I've heard it all before when I left my job with corporate America, and I'm braced and ready to deal with it all over again. Just please understand that this is something I not only have to do, but I want to do.

That said, I'm in a position where I'm willing to sell this business. The name, the logo, the wholesale and resale contacts, the names of consignors willing to stay here under new management, the merchandise, etc. I'm willing to talk with serious buyers as candidly as I possibly can. I'll be totally honest with you when you ask me questions about the good, the bad and the ugly. If I don't find the right opportunity to sell, you'll see some pretty serious in-store sales going on between January and March, and a kick-ass "Goodbye Troy" party on our last Troy Night Out. Stay tuned, folks. It's going to be a bumpy ride. And please be patient with me because this project was my baby for three years and it's going to be hard to let it go. With eight months left to go, it's starting to hit me.

For questions or inquiries about the sale of the business, please contact me at peonyandbee@gmail.com.

R.I.P. and WTF

2010-07-01T12:59:00.004-04:00

R.I.P. Gretchen! She was a good little truck while she lasted. I bought her used and abused and then drove her into the ground. Hell, despite the recall way back when, I risked my life to drive her, broken, rusted frame and all and she was good to me no matter what. But all good little 1996 Toyota Tacomas have to eventually make their way to the big shiny Tacoma heaven up in the sky, and Gretchen made her slow ascent there yesterday. Sooooooooo, now I get to take the bus. I loathe the bus. If you see me hoofing it to/from work/bus stop, please take pity on me and give me a ride. I'm old.

Also, way to go New York State for taxing us yet again!!! $10 for a pack of cigarettes. Thank goodness Patterson's days are numbered. Lets hope his replacement just so happens to be a smoker with the cojones to undo all of this rigamarole. And before you go on lecturing me about the dangers of smoking, just let me vent here. I know smoking is bad for you. My two year old niece can tell you that. This is just insane. Raising the price isn't going to solve the budget crisis. It's also not going to get people to quit smoking.

But let's give them the benefit of the doubt. Let's assume that people are going to quit smoking because of the tax. Let's take a look at this process a little closer:

Step 1. Raise the tax on already overpriced luxury items to astronomical levels.

Step 2. People quit smoking, not because it's a healthy choice and they really should anyway, but because they're broke and have to choose between their cocaine and hooker habit and the cigarettes. No brainer. Cigarettes lose.

Step 3. People quit buying tobacco and therefore don't pay the tax.

What do these steps add up to???

No money made for the state! And a whole lot of pressure on one of the biggest industries we rely on in this already financially strapped country. Idiots. Does this make sense to you???

If you MUST tax something (I'm against taxes in general, but that's another post completely) increase the tax on alcohol or legalize weed and tax the living shit out of that. Problem solved.

P.S. For any of you smokers out there who are feeling the pinch, roll your own. Easy, inexpensive (for now...and it's still way less expensive than buying the big names), and a quiet way to (slightly) screw The Man. If you decide to take my advice on the DIY cigarette option, buy finely cut pipe tobacco instead of cigarette tobacco. Prices haven't increased on that yet, but they will within the next three months. Hey, who loves ya, baby?

no apologies, but I did get a tattoo!

2010-06-29T11:54:00.006-04:00

So, I was all prepared to write out this long explanation about where I've been, why I haven't been blogging, etc. Then I decided not to bore you with the details. The truth is, I've been busy. Quite busy. But was any of that activity blog worthy? I don't think so. The buildup to River Fest, and then Troy Night Out a few days later had me busy with sewing, jewelry making, cooking, adding new inventory, cleaning and so on. Nothing worth writing about, really. But on top of that, I've been pretty quiet outside of work too. I've stayed close to home, watching movies, reading a bit and nursing my new two-crossword-puzzle-a-day habit. Ben and I both fell off the diet bandwagon BIG TIME in the last two weeks, so I haven't had any cooking adventures to discuss (we're both back on the wagon again, though). I'm ashamed to admit that I have very little in terms of a garden this year. The flowers in the front beds are happy, though a bit overgrown with weeds, but we slacked off with the veggies this year. Not sure if we feel a bit defeated from last years blight, or if we just ran out of time, but no veggies and no herbs to speak of this year. So yeah, I'm especially boring lately...I just figured I wouldn't drag you down to my level.

One thing I have been itching to tell you about, though, are my new tattoos! I finally got around to seeing Kara last week to work out the design, dropped off a dozen photos or so of Queen Anne's Lace, and prepared myself for a three to six month wait. Lucky for me, she had a cancellation and I was there at 5:00 on Monday night to get it done! One of the things I love the most about Kara is the trust I have with her designs and her ability to carry them out. In my past tattoo experiences, I've presented the artist with a very clear, specific design and I asked that the artist follow the design as closely as possible. But with Kara, I find a few examples of what I'm looking for, give her some verbal details, talk with her a bit to make sure we're on the same page and then let her work her magic. I've never been disappointed, and I couldn't be more thrilled with how these came out. They are so much better than anything I could have ever imagined. If you live in the area and are considering some body art of your own, please, please, PLEASE consider her. Lark Street, baby. The only complaint I have is the location of the tattoos because I can't stare at them all day, and I look like a total ass bending my legs in awkward positions to gawk at them.

Oh, and please let me apologize not only for my pasty white Godzilla calves (they're my least favorite body part) but also for these awkward photos. Do you have any idea how hard it is to take pictures of the backs of your legs? Try it sometime.

Anyway, I'm hoping to return to my normal blogging schedule now that things have relaxed a bit. I know I've said that before, but I mean it this time. I've got lots to tell you about!

for your pleasure

2010-06-10T10:01:00.004-04:00

My dearest darling sister has decided to put her skills to use here at the shop! And no, I'm not talking about free labor. You see, my sister is one of the best massage therapists on the face of the planet, and I'm not just saying that out of obligation. She has those little needle fingers that find their way into the cracks and crevices in your muscles you never knew you had, backed up by the brute force necessary to get in there and get the job done. I refuse to see anyone else for massage. She's that good.

Anyway, she'll be here on Saturdays for a majority of the 10am - 4pm time slot. Keep in mind that she has a two year old to contend with, so there may be days when she's a little late, or leaves a little early. It's cool. Walk-ins are welcome, and you can always call ahead to book something in advance (518-272-7227). Ahhh yes, just imagine a splendid day at the farmers market, a visit to the local craft market just around the corner and then a nice, relaxing ten minute chair massage to close up your morning. I can't think of anything better.

$1.00 a minute. You choose how long you'd like to be worked on. It's that simple.

boooooring!

2010-06-09T11:13:00.005-04:00

I don't know why I get so surprised and/or confused at this time of year in blog world. I get this sudden and almost immediate recoil when it comes to blogging. I have nothing to talk about. I don't know what the change of seasons and the reappearance of decent weather has to do with it, but I'm less inspired and less chatty. And, it's clear to me that the rest of blog world goes through this yearly spring/summer slow down too, because after perusing the mountainous blog roll I run through on a regular basis, I've noticed that everyone else is posting at the same speed as I am...little to no.

So, again, nothing of significance to discuss here. Slow and steady at home. Haven't been cooking much, gardening much, or doing much more than nursing my sudden crossword puzzle addiction (I'm convinced I'm getting smarter). Things are plugging along at the shop. We're all getting ready for RiverFest next weekend. Gosh, can you believe it's that time again?!?!?!? We're planning some really great buys here, including lots of great handmade goodies for $10.00 or less. If you're in the area, stop by the downtown Troy area on the 19th from 10a-6p. More info here if you need it. And don't worry, no parking meters on Saturdays, thank goodness.

birthday lurve

2010-06-06T02:20:00.001-04:00

Just a quick shout out to wish my dearest Kate a very happy birthday! You rock my world, yo. May we gossip, plan weddings and act like jerks for many, many years to come.

P.S. I stole this photo from her Flickr page.

deny, deny, deny

2010-06-04T11:01:00.005-04:00

I really have no idea why, but this news story has been stuck in my mind for the last few days. I'll honestly do just about anything to keep myself from dwelling on this oil spill mess, so this little news item is juuuuust enough to keep me enthralled. Back when the Natalie Holloway case was in the news (and for a good solid year afterward), I couldn't stop reading/watching/listening for details. Something about it really caught my attention and held it there. With no real resolution to the story aside from this Van der Sloot scumbag's admittance on hidden camera that Holloway was, in fact, dead, everything in the media died out and the world moved on. When I read about this most recent ordeal, all of those thoughts and emotions came back and now it's all I can think about. I'll be watching for new news coming up soon, but I really hope they fry this bastard. His father, the man responsible for saving Joran's ass the first time around, is dead and gone and no longer able to save him again. Let's hope the Peruvian government tries him fairly and finds him guilty. Karma's gonna getcha, pal. Just ask OJ.

Prunus serotina

2010-06-03T11:13:00.000-04:00

The local market had black cherries on sale yesterday and I've proceeded to eat an entire five pound bag in less than 24 hours. I live for this time of year. Thank goodness they're diet friendly!

epic saga

2010-06-02T10:22:00.003-04:00

I'm a slacker. I know.

The last week has been a whirlwind of activity and I can count on one hand the number of minutes I've been at a computer. Whew! It was fun, but I'm glad things are heading back to normal.

How was your holiday weekend? We spent a good chunk of last week preparing for our art show here at The Paper Sparrow. My grandmother, my mother, my niece Lola and I all had a collaborative show, "Four", in the rear gallery on Troy Night Out and it was a success! We all sold several pieces with The Lo selling more than anyone else! It was such a great idea and I'm so glad we all followed through. The show is up through June 22nd, so if you're in the area, stop by and check it out!

Ben and I hosted a barbecue picnic in the yard for family and friends on Sunday, which was great. It could have been even better had I not received a phone call from ADT Security at the very beginning of the afternoon, letting me know that my burglar alarm had gone off at the shop. I headed down to Troy immediately only to find that someone certainly had tried to break into the store. The deadbolt was busted on the front door, but fortunately for us, the asshole heard my alarm beeping and took off. Nothing was stolen and the only damage done was to the lock. Good for us, bad for the thief. I'm not expecting this dude to turn himself in, and the cops even told us that the chances of him being caught is slim, but I just wish this nonsense would stop! My store is the second in two weeks to have this happen. What kills me is that the crime is happening during the day in broad daylight. In my case, it happened around 1:45 in the afternoon on a Sunday. Guess these things don't keep the crooks away anymore. Desperate times, I tell you.

Anyway, the rest of the party was a success and I hope everyone had a great time. I've spent the last two days unwinding and just trying to relax as much as possible. There's a lot of drama going on in the background and I'm trying to keep my cool as best as I can. Hope you all had a marvelous holiday! I'm doing my best to catch up on your blog posts, and hopefully now I can resume a normal blog posting routine once again. I've missed you guys!

well?

2010-05-24T00:07:00.003-04:00

What did you think? Just finished watching it a short while ago and had some time to think things through. I'm more than pleased. Curious to know what the rest of you think. I took a peek online to see what other folks have to say about it and overall it sounds like most loved it, but some had a hard time grasping what it meant.

I have to say that while I haven't spent the last six years of my life watching, the last few months of soaking it all in was well worth the time, effort and brain cramps. So glad you guys talked me into this. Thank you.

a dollar an hour just doesn't work for me

2010-05-21T12:14:00.003-04:00

Ha ha, I was interviewed by the local paper about the parking situation here in Troy. Several people heard about my...uh...outburst at City Hall the other day and confronted me about it yesterday. Apparently the reporters heard too. Good times. I sound like a dick.

moving on

2010-05-20T10:35:00.002-04:00

Yesterday was a really crappy day.

Not only did I infuriate myself by eating that muffin, but I also went apeshit on the clerks down at Troy City Hall. You see, good old Troy decided to go ahead and install parking meters in very hidden places and then leave the old "2 Hour Parking" signs right where they've always been. A little misleading, eh? I had no idea the meters were there and parked in my usual spot. Someone came in and told me that my truck was overloaded with tickets, and sure enough it was. So, I closed the shop and went down to City Hall (which just so happens to be in the same building as my old Verizon office, so you can imagine how badly my skin was crawling) and went totally berserk. I probably should have calmed down before entering the building, but, as I mentioned, yesterday was a crappy day so whatever.

::just as a side note here, it just dawned on me that I'm posting a lot about going crazy on people lately, and I don't want anyone to think I'm a total lunatic here. I just fly off the handle quickly. I'm working on it.::

Anyway, I was told to "get used to it", and the fact that customers have to pay to shop in our stores and employees and owners of said stores have to close their shops up to pay the meters or move their cars every hour or two, is part of "the NEW Troy". Makes you want to come right down here to shop, doesn't it? I'm fed up. I'm also not renewing my lease when it's up early next year. More on that soon.

So, I've moved on to a new day. I'm parking in the next town over which gives me the opportunity to get some exercise in the morning. It's a brisk walk over a bridge with gorgeous scenery, so things could be worse. I'm not allowing myself to think about what I'm going to do in the winter...just enjoying the new routine as much as I can. I'm trying to think positively about life as of late. I've had a few realizations that have changed my outlook on things, and I'm trying to savor them before my mood sours again. I've also decided to up my exercise intake in addition to the morning walk because I think this will help to pull me out of my slump and maybe make me not hate myself so much the next time I indulge in a chocolate muffin. God those things are fantastic.

I'm sorry for being such a crab here lately. I hope you guys don't blow me off for not being all roses and daisies all the time. There are an awful lot of those perky, happy, cheery blogs out there and I wonder how these women live lives like that day in and day out. Life isn't all roses and daisies all the time and bad days happen. Thank you for sticking with me through times like these. Things are looking up and big changes are ahead!

guilty

2010-05-19T12:43:00.003-04:00

I just ate a chocolate muffin from the coffee shop next door and feel incredibly guilty about it. I hate being like this.

all hail the queen

2010-05-18T11:45:00.003-04:00

Anyone have any great photos of Queen Anne's Lace they'd be willing to share with me? It just dawned on me that I have a $100 gift certificate to Lark Tattoo and that means I can FINALLY get my calves tattooed. I'm on the hunt for some good shots...found a few via Flickr, but would love to get some other inspirational pictures to work from. I haven't decided if I want this to look super realistic, or painterly, or if I want to just leave it up to Kara to decide. I trust her judgment, especially after seeing how she pulled off the sparrows on my chest. Either way, I'm itching to give her a call to set up an appointment. Eeeeeeeee! I've been waiting for this for a loooooong time. Thanks!

murderer

2010-05-14T20:56:00.003-04:00

I hate mosquitoes.

In fact, I hate any of those nasty little bloodsuckers...fleas, ticks, etc. They're just about the only things I willingly kill with my own bare hands. This guy was massive and gnawing on my leg when he met his maker.

mmmm, chemicals

2010-05-12T20:45:00.007-04:00

So the evil bastard love children over at the Wonka candy company have created a monster. For real.

With flavors like Cloud Berry, Raspberry, Blueberry and Goji Berry, you can't lose. AND, they'll fool you because they feature an ultra chewy gummy shell on the outside, but hiding inside its delicious, fruit flavored goodness is a gooey jam-like gel. Magnificent, I say!

But, ladies and gentlemen, act fast because they're already discontinued. Built up a stockpile here at the house thanks to our local Target store.

If you dare, and you better think twice before diving in because these little buggers are addictive, I highly recommend that you go for it. Here, Mike will illustrate just how good they are...

Before:
After:

tempers, cell phone hate and even a little art

2010-05-12T09:56:00.006-04:00

I need to develop a better scowl, I think, just so people will learn not to mess with me. I almost got into a fist fight with a full grown man this morning because he intentionally stole my parking spot. If you're not from this area, I should explain that parking spots in downtown Troy are so few and far between that people actually fight for them. Anyway, there's a pretty consistent flow of construction going on down here at all times, limiting the parking spot availability even more, and making my mornings very difficult these days.

After driving in circles for twenty minutes this morning, I pulled in front of a spot that was about to open up, put the truck in reverse and had my blinker on. I couldn't pull back behind the spot to wait because of even more construction, so I waited. The guy in the spot knew I was waiting for it and even gestured to wait a second while he put his cell phone down (lord I hate cell phones) and buckled his seat belt. He pulls out of the spot just in time for some other asshole to pull his gigantic van in. I put my truck in park (in the middle of the street, mind you) and got out. I start yelling at this guy (nasty, crude Cohoes girl speak) and he just shrugs his shoulders, laughs and gets on his cell phone. Let me just tell you, it took everything I had to not pull him out of the van and kick his flabby butt. I'm trying to keep my temper down these days, improving myself mentally as well as physically, and fighting is something that just doesn't agree with me. I fly off the handle way too easily and I'm trying to keep it in check. Don't mess with Cohoes girls, people. Like poking a bear at the zoo...not a good idea.

Anyway....deep breath.

So, I wasn't planning on talking about this here, but I figure maybe it'll bring some people out. At the end of this month, we're featuring paintings by my grandmother, paintings by my mom and my own mixed media stuff in the rear gallery of the shop. It's a generational thing I guess you could say, and it should be pretty sweet! My grandmother's and mother's paintings are amazing and look like this:

I love my grandmother's birds and my mother's trees. Can't get enough. I'm working out a photo project on canvas with embroidery and embroidery hoops. I'd explain more but I just don't know what the hell I'm talking about today. Photos to come. I'll need you crazy kids to help me out with pricing, too. If you can make it to the show, the reception is on Troy Night Out, May 28th, from 5-9pm. The show will be up until mid-June. Yes, there will be dip. Hope to see you there!

feels like fall

2010-05-10T17:33:00.008-04:00

Last I checked, we were currently in the month of May. Not sure what the weather is like in your neck of the woods, but it's damn cold out there lately! Feels like fall to me. Not quite the shivery, damp November kind of fall we all quickly grow to hate, but chilly, brisk October fall maybe. Gotta love the northeast. We all know better than to put our sweaters and snow shovels away too quickly.

So you're probably wondering who won the giveaway, eh? First, I'd like to say that I loved your answers, and thank you for playing along. I love doing these and I really should do them more often. Anyway, congratulations goes to...

Laura from Metalsgirl!

Wow, you squeaked in at the last minute and took the whole thing by storm! Congrats!!! If you folks aren't familiar with Laura's blog, please check it out. This woman is a miracle worker for many, many rescue dogs. Fantastic work, and an amazing jewelry maker, too!

Laura, I have your address already, but would you please e-mail me at peonyandbee@gmail.com and include a little note with your favorite color and a description of a fabric print that suits you (are you a floral person? Plaid? Paisley? Solids? You get the idea.) I'll make a bag for you if you'd like.

Nothing new to report here. I'm both baffled and awestruck by this beaver dam they discovered via satellite. Can you believe this thing?

Picked some lily of the valley I found hiding along side my house (more photos here in the stream). I hate to pick them (it kills me, really), but they're out of sight and would just wither and die there. Bringing them indoors means enjoying them while they're around, and even just a few stems give off this amazing scent that just melts my icy cold heart.

Other than that, I spent the weekend taking photos with Mike and laying low. I'm really tired these days and can't seem to get enough rest. Oh, and in case you smartasses out there were thinking it...no, I'm not pregnant.

givin' my stuff away

2010-05-07T16:48:00.007-04:00

I think it's time for another giveaway, don't you? It's been a while.
I will reward the winner of this contest a bag similar to the one shown here (I may even customize it for you if I have the means). All you have to do is leave a comment with your answer to the question below and your name will be drawn out of a hat. Well, maybe not out of a hat, but some sort of vessel anyway.

So here goes (question chosen at random from the If book...we're big on the If books here at chez Eggleston):

If you could be one article of clothing, what would you be and who would you want to belong to?

Winner will be chosen on Tuesday, May 11th.

Ready, set, GO!

tuneage

2010-05-07T16:27:00.004-04:00

Matthew yet again pointed me in the right direction musically. Love this. I'm going to rip him off and repost here to share with you.

I'm not a huge fan of female vocalists, but something about this woman's voice reminds me of old PJ Harvey/Throwing Muses/Patti Smith. Soaking up the album a lot lately. Great stuff. And the video is just creepy enough to keep my attention.

P.S. Stay tuned this weekend for a giveaway I'm working on.

sausage boob

2010-05-05T23:28:00.005-04:00

Can any of you ladies recommend a decent jog bra? I have a rather, uh, large top half and a standard jog bra does nothing for me. I'd like to give jogging a try, but I'd prefer to do so without pain, thank you very much. I need as much support as I can get. At this point, if no one can help me I'm fully prepared to head to CVS for an ace bandage.

Gracias!

the best

2010-05-03T23:20:00.003-04:00

I have the greatest husband in the world.

Not only did he spend his hard-earned weekend at Pottery Fest (my request) but he also treated me to a trip to Faddegon's (my favorite nursery) to look at plants. Amazing, right? I got to come home with a brand new Columbine plant and a gorgeous new variety of Coral Bells. And to top it all off, he joined me on a mini trip to the local park to play on the swings. Ahh yes, love is grand. I'm one lucky gal.

My love, if you're reading this, thank you for choosing to spend the rest of your life with me. You'll have my heart forever.

anybody wanna head to Philly?

2010-05-01T15:49:00.005-04:00

Because I'd love to see this:

"Take a look at this picture. Not much to see here, right, just a plank of octagon-shaped wood with a few metal straps and some sort of contraption on top? Look closer. This is precisely what they (whoever coined this maxim) had in mind when they urged us not to judge a book by its cover.

This lumber, you see, serves an actual purpose, an artistic one. What you see here is a collaboration between Eric Bachmann, onetime Denverite of Crooked Fingers/Archers of Loaf fame, and local artist Patrick Marold.

Evidently, the sculpture, which responds to sunlight in some way sonically, is part of the Elemental Energy: Art Powered by Nature exhibit at Philadelphia's Schuylkill Center. From what we understand, an entire collection of these types of sculptures is slated to be assembled and will reportedly perform an entire piece of music."

-article from Denver Westword Blogs

Brilliant, I say!

2010-04-30T09:52:00.003-04:00

If you don't care to watch the whole thing and want to skip to the best part, watch part two for Alton's homemade popcorn device and ideas for seasonings. I highly recommend the entire thing, though. Just watch it!

The lilacs are blooming! The lilacs are blooming!

2010-04-28T14:08:00.004-04:00

They're probably blooming or have already bloomed where you are, but my little sapling takes her sweet time.

All of my Columbine is back this year, and with it come the new varieties planted late last season and at the beginning of this one. This is the first of them to bloom...my favorite, wild Columbine (Aquilegia canadensis).

There are all sorts of new things popping up that I planted last year. Can't remember what half of them are, but that's the fun part. One of these days I'll start a garden journal and keep track. One of these days.

thank you

2010-04-27T14:08:00.003-04:00

Just wanted to thank everyone for their kind words. It's been really hard to grasp that she's gone and the support from everyone really helps a lot. So thanks.

Not much to say here today, but mostly I just wanted to bump that last post down. I get hysterical every time I sign in and see her fuzzy little face sitting there at the top. I just can't accept it yet.

The next post will be much cheerier, I promise.

Isabelle

2010-04-25T21:46:00.003-04:00

Our sweet little velveteen cat left us today. She died late this afternoon and luckily we were able to say goodbye to her as she passed. I adopted her from a shelter when I got my first apartment and she's been at my side ever since. Not sure how old she was when I took her home, but she lived with me for fourteen years. Feels like something is missing from our house already. She will be missed.

Little A

2010-04-25T08:24:00.003-04:00

(photo courtesy of Kate's Flickr stream)

I had the chance to spend a little quality time with Miss Amelia last night at my house. Had a bunch of company over for dinner (steak, burgers, shrimp, roasted potatoes and cupcakes), some relaxin' time, a sit around the fire pit in the back yard, and just good old fashioned catching up. Kate and Dave brought the baby with them and she's just such a delight to have around. It got me thinking...I have no regrets whatsoever about not having kids of my own, but maybe other people's kids aren't so bad after all. Especially this little lady. How adorable is she???

Someone else's giveaway!

2010-04-24T11:50:00.004-04:00

(photo courtesy of Hartwood Roses)

So, I've been a loyal reader of Christina's blog, The Oak Leaves, for a while now. Love her photos, love her stories, love the blog overall. Popped in there today to see what was new and her most recent post linked to her friend's blog where a fantastic giveaway is going on. I want to win this climbing rose so badly I can taste it. To enter, simply leave a comment on her blog. And for an extra added bonus, if you link to the giveaway on your own blog, she'll enter your name for a second chance at winning. Yes! I'm feeling lucky. I've been fantasizing about some sort of climbing plant growing up the side of my little brick bungalow lately, and this would be perfect! Head on over and check it out. And be sure to check in on The Oak Leaves, too. Great stuff.

it could happen to you

2010-04-22T07:40:00.000-04:00

I have the worst luck.

A customer stopped by yesterday to ask if I’d be interested in taking her old sewing machine. It still works, is in great condition, and I’m certainly not one to turn down a backup machine for those all-too-common times when mine decides it’s too good to work for me anymore. The customer asked if I wouldn’t mind getting the machine out of her car (she had recently suffered from a back injury and couldn’t lift it herself), and walked with me to show me where she was parked. I grabbed the machine out of the back seat, thanked her thoroughly, and made my way back to the shop, smiling the entire way.

And that’s when it happened.

My underwear fell off.

And I was wearing a skirt.

I swear these things only happen to me. I’m pretty sure no one saw it happen, but as I was standing at the sink last night washing the dinner dishes, I had an awfully vivid image in my head of the one solitary person who witnessed the event telling his entire family the story, all while choking on a full-bellied laugh.

Yeah. I’ll never understand life. But I still swear by Weight Watchers.

complete?

2010-04-21T11:06:00.006-04:00

So, here's the completed room...or at least I think it's completed. The only goal I didn't accomplish was the painting of the fireplace, and I'm okay with that for right now. With the new, brighter paint color and the much brighter, lighter curtains, the room just pops now where it just kind of drifted off into darkness before. I love it. The fireplace can wait. If I get sick of the brick all over again, one Sunday with a paintbrush should do the trick. What do you think? Any pointers for me? Anything you can't stand? I love how much the paint color changes with the time of day. In the morning the paint has a green tone to it and yet it's very blue at night.

Oh, and yes, my floors are dirty. Don't judge me. We're in the process of buying a new vacuum after our old one bit the dust. Meh.

More photos here.

new room

2010-04-20T11:49:00.004-04:00

Does my mantle look too crowded to you? It's a crappy picture, I know. I could seriously fuss with the arrangement of this thing for hours and hours. I'm starting to go a bit mad, I think. I don't want it to look too cluttered. I've added a lot and then taken it away. I just don't know when to stop. Is this too much?

Anyway, I'm putting the finishing touches on that room now and I expect to be finished within the next few days. As you can see I haven't touched the fireplace yet and I may not...more on that later. Stay tuned for shots of the finished product.

2010-04-17T22:27:00.009-04:00

Once upon a time, in a town called Troy,

A group of men gathered together on a dark and stormy day,

To show the world

How much they love and respect women.

They all agreed to walk one mile in women's shoes,

No matter how awkward

Or painful that might be.

Some shoes were fancy.

Some plain.

Some had buckles.

And some were too sassy for words.

But no matter how fancy or plain, buckled or sassy,

The men walked happily,

To show that violence against women is wrong,

And all was right with the world.

From this year's Walk A Mile event, Samaritan Hospital, Troy NY...

We had a blast this year, guys. Thanks to all of you who showed up to walk!

for you*

2010-04-15T21:19:00.003-04:00

*you know who you are.

And another one of my faves, just because:

floral beer

2010-04-14T16:38:00.005-04:00

I love beer as much as the next person, but with the diet and all, well, it's not exactly on my list of easily consumable foods. After reading this month's issue of Food Network magazine, though, I may have to allow myself to cheat a bit.

From the magazine:

Heather:

"Scotland's Williams Bros. Brewing Co. is celebrating its 20th birthday with a special edition of its Fraoch Ale (fraoch is Scottish Gaelic for "heather"). Brewers add fresh heather flowers to boiling malt to give the beer a spicy, herbal flavor. $16 for 750ml."

Chamomile:

"Tart, Cuvee de Fleurs beer, from Long Island's Southampton brewery, might as well be made in a meadow: It's infused with a blend of chamomile, rose hips, marigold and lavender. $12 for 750ml."

Chrysanthemums:

"Chateau Jiahu, a sweet, complex brew from Delaware's Dogfish Head brewery, is a reinterpretation of a 9,000-year-old beverage from China, made with mum buds and wildflower honey. $12 for 750ml."

Seeing as how Dogfish Head is a beer staple in this house (Ben loves the 90min IPA), I think the Chateau Jiahu may be the first I try, but man, that chamomile beer really sounds like the one to really knock my socks off. Have you tried any of these???

KFC

2010-04-12T22:27:00.005-04:00

What the hell is wrong with these people???

sunday

2010-04-11T17:16:00.007-04:00

This very well may be the first Sunday I've waded through where I actually enjoyed myself and embraced every single second. This is also the first Sunday in a long, long time where nothing was scheduled, nothing seemed urgent.

I had planned on taking the morning to sleep in and get some much needed rest, and instead awoke a little after 8 to a sleepy faced, smiling husband, and a grunting (yet smiling) squirmy black dog. We stumbled out of bed and Ben made breakfast, something that never happens often enough, but something I've adored since the day we met so many years ago.

I found myself grinning while puttering around the house...washing dishes, straightening rooms, doing laundry. Simple chores that normally find themselves crammed amidst the daily clutter of life were little blessings today, and I found myself enjoying life for the first time in far too long. I planted seeds and tended to the garden. Daydreamed and schemed up ideas for Randi's wedding...candles in canning jars and vintage tea-colored doilies, ocean colors and twinkly white lights.

We walked, my two loves and I, one on a leash, one at my side, and breathed in the spring air. A bit of love must have been mixed in with the pollen because we noted several amorous couples along the way, tucked in on park benches and walking hand in hand along the paths.

I sprawled out in the sunlight this afternoon, soaking in the warmth and taking in little bits of this book, slowly, so that it didn't end too quickly...not before I find myself ready to turn the last page. Snippets of stories from one woman who decided to leave the hustle and bustle of city life and all of its conveniences, replacing it with the wild forests and coastlines of Maine and bare-bones living. I envy such a life change, and long for it most times. But it dawned on me, while I was listening to the wind blowing through the trees and the birds chirping on our quiet, dead-end street, that life is what you make it, and perhaps it's possible for me to live that same simple life right here, where I am, and where I already call home.

Tonight we'll feast on roasted shrimp, mushrooms with a balsamic glaze, and the remainder of last years fiddleheads, and enjoy each other's company. For now, I'll embrace what I have and be grateful for this day, and the peace it brought me.

paper, scissors, glue

2010-04-10T10:35:00.005-04:00

Working on the spring/summer window for the shop. The winter window was filled with flying paper geese and an illuminated moon, and boy was it pretty. But seeing as how the geese have gone and come back already, I figured it was time to change things up. Paper Sparrows, paper leaves and yarn nests this time around (all assembled on real branches). You likey? I can't get a decent picture of the finished product no matter how hard I try. This is the best I can do.

it's the end of the world as we know it...

2010-04-09T12:58:00.007-04:00

...and I feel fine!

Watched this documentary today after reading a rather long Etsy forum post about the topic. Fascinating. Take the 40 (or so) minutes and please check it out. If you can't get the player to work here, you can watch it here or here. I'd like to think that there are far more issues contributing to the decline of male fertility and the declining numbers of baby boys born, than just plastics and petrochemicals (like, hmmm, when they tell you to flush unused medications down the toilet), but hey, you never know. Amazing stuff. Makes me want to become a hermit in the woods somewhere and live off the land.

Heh.

I'd last five seconds.

wedding bells, brain mush and a cry for help

2010-04-07T20:14:00.007-04:00

So, I've finally been given permission to pass along the following info:

Randi and Keith are getting married!

Eeeeeeee! I'm sure those of you who know them have heard already, especially in this Facebook saturated world of ours (::cringe::), but I'm holding out hope that not all of you are glued to your Facebook page and maybe this is all a big surprise to you. So there you have it. After ten years together they've finally decided to tie the knot. And guess who gets to plan it? Yours truly and Mrs. Kate Geurin. Kate and I spend our time passing photos and wedding/party planning ideas back and forth anyway (yes, it's true, we really do this), so we were both thrilled and honored to be given the role of wedding planners for such a close friend. Heh. This is gonna be fun. And, any wedding where I'm not forced into a dress or heels, well, I'm a fan. Although, I think I'll be wearing a (comfortable and non-frilly) dress to this one anyway.

Please excuse the random and totally pointless posts I've been cranking out recently and possibly may be over the next few days. I'm finally getting close to filing my taxes, and folks, if you've never owned a business, let me just tell you that business taxes are brutal. Damn the man! Anyway, if I'm quiet here, or if you notice a long string of photo posts or something mundane like that, I'm not sick or dying or trying to give you the cold shoulder. I'm rotting in tax hell.

Also, Andy, an old coworker of mine, called me yesterday asking me for a bit of help. He has a young friend who just found out she has breast cancer and has to have both breasts removed. While this is simply tragic, she's chosen to look on the bright side of things and celebrate the fact that she's going to live. So, she's hosting a "Farewell To My Breasts" party and is looking for a cake made in the shape of a nice pair of boobs. Andy has asked me to take on the task of making said cake, and I agreed. But I have no clue what I'm doing. So I ask you, dear readers, do you know how I should go about doing this? Stacking three round cakes for each breast and carving them to shape is the route I'm thinking of taking, but I don't know if this is even wise. Is there an easier way of doing it? I've googled "breast cake" already and saw some pretty amazing cakes, but no one is sharing their technique. I'm waiting to find out how many people this cake has to feed and that will determine how big I'll have to make it. I guess I could always slap the boobs on top of a sheet cake if the guest number is high. Who knows. If you've done any of these weird shaped cakes and have some advice to offer, I'm all ears. I've never done something like this before. I'm afraid, and I think I should be. Eek!

Let's try this again...

2010-04-07T09:55:00.005-04:00

The last time I did this, someone must have been on my side because Eric Bachmann announced a mini solo tour a few days later. Coincidence? Absolutely. But perhaps there's someone or something out there listening to my plea. So, if someone IS listening, I sure could use a fix.

bought myself...

2010-04-06T17:24:00.004-04:00

...some flowers,

and a new haircut.

The big E

2010-04-03T12:33:00.005-04:00

Happy Easter, kids!

Hope the day is filled with fun, family and...who am I kidding...candy!

We're heading to my grandmother and grandfather's house for an egg hunt (for the littles), a scavenger hunt (for the older littles) and loads of food. My grandfather insists on a Polish brunch every year, so we'll dine on pierogies, kielbasa, and a plethora of other pot-luck goodies. I always feel the need to balance out the Polish food with food from the other half of our heritage, Irish, so I make a big batch of Ina's scones every year. I'm taking the traditional route this year and making currant scones at Sandy's request. I found a recipe for a vanilla spice butter that I think I'll make for the scones, too. Mmmmm, vanilla spice butter on a warm, hot-out-of-the-oven scone. Heaven. Add to that a shrimp fritatta (with caramelized onions and mushrooms, loads of garlic, scallions, fresh herbs and muenster cheese) and a lemon cheese pie (just imagine a cross between a lemon custard and a lemon cheesecake in a graham cracker crust). Yum.

Are you cooking up anything interesting?

Bravo, Metroland!

2010-04-01T15:42:00.004-04:00

I went out of my way to ask Kate about the cover of this week's Metroland. Saw it first thing this morning and it absolutely made my day. Those of you who don't live in New York state probably don't care, but for us New Yorkers being bent over regularly by this guy, well, how perfect is this??? Bravo, Metrolanders. You guys are all winners in my book!

spring's arrival means...

2010-04-01T02:06:00.000-04:00

...Pottery Fest!

I haven't kept track of how many years I've been attending, but last year's trip was my first with Ben. He's joining me again this year, and I'm hoping to include Dave, Kate and Amelia this time around! If you live in the area, please check it out. Amazing work, great music, lots of demonstrations, and always fantastic buys. Besides, I'll never pass up a trip to visit the Shaker Historic Site. Such a beautiful place.

Anyway, $1 of every admission goes to the Empty Bowls Project (another event I can't wait for this year), and with an admission of only $5 (kids under 12 get in free), you have to admit it's worth it. More info should be posted here soon.

May 1st and 2nd, 10am - 4pm each day

so lovely I could cry

2010-03-31T13:35:00.001-04:00

:: Note: Here's the part where all of you non-gardening types sigh deeply and shake your heads at me because I'm going to ramble on about Columbine. Again. ::

I'm drooling on my keyboard again, folks.

To say that I want these for my shade gardens in the front of my house is a drastic understatement. I need them. I crave them. I live for them.

Dramatic? You betcha.

(blue butterflies)

(dorothy rose)

(goldfinch)

From White Flower Farm, a drool-worthy place indeed. Someday I will make a pilgrimage there. Someday. There are more varieties here. The ones not listed in this post thrive and spread year after year in my garden. Need seeds? E-mail me. These are fool proof, kids. All of you black-thumbed people need not worry. Simple, easy to grow, little to no maintenance. Score!

disappointed

2010-03-31T13:09:00.004-04:00

I haven't been this disappointed in a U.S. president in a very long time. And considering where we were just a short while ago, that's saying a lot.

science

2010-03-30T20:08:00.001-04:00

It doesn't get any more fascinating than this. And yes, I'm still obsessed with the Hadron Collider.

Lost, mentally

2010-03-29T20:42:00.007-04:00

I'm going to make this quick because I know I'm starting to annoy those of you who aren't LOST fans.

I'm completely caught up. Seriously.

In (give or take) 42 days, I managed to watch approximately 4,704 minutes (that's 78.4 hours) worth of oddly compelling material. This can only mean that I'm either a completely devoted individual or incredibly indifferent about how I waste my life away. Either way, that's a shitload of time. And somehow I can't imagine my life without it.

I'm in love...

2010-03-29T00:11:00.002-04:00

...with this movie.

I have no idea what took me so long to watch it. In fact, the book has been gathering dust on the bookshelf for over a year now and I haven't even cracked the spine. But I'm in love. With Julia. With the sets. With the dialogue. With the relationship between Julia and Paul. With Meryl Streep.

Fantastic. Simply fantastic.

update

2010-03-26T14:32:00.005-04:00

Just wanted to give everyone an update about my dad. He's doing much better, thankfully, but he's still in the hospital. I want to thank everyone for their kind words, thoughts and prayers. You guys are all amazing. If you're waiting for a phone call or an e-mail back from me, I'm so sorry it's taking me so long, but thank you for your patience. Life is extremely hectic lately and I haven't had time to do much more than bounce from home to work to Albany Med (officially THE best hospital on the face of the planet) and back again. As soon as normalcy returns, I promise to get back to you. Yikes. My house is filthy and torn to shreds (the living room redo happened right before my dad's emergency, so that room looks like a tornado blew through it), Olive keeps giving me dirty looks and poor Ben has been living on frozen dinners and ramen noodles. Hopefully regular old day-to-day life returns to all of us soon, especially my mom and dad.

I'd also like to formally apologize to my Troy Night Out customers who come in monthly looking for food and refreshments. We will have wine and a few munchies tonight, but I didn't get a chance to make dip this month (dun dun DUN!!!), and I'm already starting to apologize to people who pop their heads in wondering what's on the menu for tonight. Next month, I promise.

So, yes, thanks to you all. I hope to be back soon!!!

well wishes

2010-03-22T08:43:00.000-04:00

My dad was rushed to the emergency room late last night. Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers. Thanks.

almost there

2010-03-21T21:30:00.001-04:00

The walls are just about painted and I'm totally at peace with the color. Oh, and I keep telling myself that I'm completely fine with the fact that I'm covered in paint, dog/cat hair and little dead spider bodies, and it's okay to relax.

Tomorrow, I'll paint the fireplace, make some new curtains and put the room back together.

What a weekend. Well worth the effort.

vernal

2010-03-20T01:00:00.009-04:00

Happy Spring, Kids! Thought it was never gonna get here.

No significance to the song other than the fact that it's one of my all time faves and it feels all spring-like to me. Have a great weekend!

hack job

2010-03-19T01:18:00.001-04:00

I think I'm going to hack my hair off again.

I always do this.

I cut it all off and then promise myself that I'm going to grow it out. I get bored with it quickly and chop it all off again. Spring does a lot of weird things to me and this is one of those things.

Months ago I was flipping through a magazine at the salon while Ben got his monthly shearing. I found an ad for some hipster girly beauty products by Marcia Kilgore. I couldn't care less about the products, but her hair really appealed to me. I tore the page out and stuck it on the fridge at home, just to give myself some time to think about it. Months have gone by and I still love it. I think I'm gonna go for it. I'm not one of those girls who freaks out over a drastic hair change because, as we all know, it grows back. And my hair, well, it grows like a weed. My only concern here is that my face is too round for this style. I've gone this short in the past. Even shorter, actually. I'm not afraid.

Comments? Suggestions?

Oh, and P.S., after another trip to the hardware store, and after testing out two more paint samples, I think I may have found the right shade for the room. I had the poor dude at Home Depot match a Ralph Lauren color called Cathedral Grey (go here and you'll find it in the seventh row down, second one in from the left) to a Behr base and I think it's a winner. I was entirely too overwhelmed by the orange colors (I love orange, but I don't want it to compete with the orange hallway at the other end of the house), and the one I tested out on the walls tonight just wasn't for me. So, I'm going to give the grey a day to grow on me, and if I still like it tomorrow, I'll have my plate full for this weekend! I painted the grey over part of the Wheat Bread swatch from last night and the colors look nice together. So, perhaps Cathedral Grey on the walls and Wheat Bread on the fireplace. Updates to come!

fifteen million shades of white

2010-03-18T01:58:00.002-04:00

Thank god for paint samples.

Okay, I'm in interior design hell. I know what you're thinking: you've done this to yourself, jerk!...The room was fine the way it was! And you're right, the room was fine. But I have a nasty case of spring fever and this room must be changed quickly or my sanity will drift away, never to be seen or heard from again. Dramatic much?

Anyway, so I hit up good old Home Depot, not once, but twice today. Thank god the same girl wasn't at the paint counter both times or I'd have some explaining to do. Here's the back story:

See, on my way home from work yesterday I stopped by The Spinning Seed to drop something off and there I found the most amazing thrifted cardigan sweater in the most amazing shade of blue. Amazing, I tell you! The second I laid eyes on it, I knew this would be the perfect shade for my living room. So, today I went to the Depot, sweater in hand, to match this perfect shade of blue with some eggshell-finish goodness. The sweater itself is one of those "in-between shades" deals, so it was tricky, but I found two colors that seemed perfect. Bought the samples, got them home, put them up on the walls and...

hated both of them.

Yes, that's right. I couldn't stand them. This room is not meant to be blue. Not one bit. So, I decided to go with my original instinct and try out a nice linen color. Went back to the Depot and snagged two more samples, one called Wheat Bread (I already know I love this color because I use it in the gallery at the shop), a grayish beigy white, and one called Gobi Desert, a yellowey beigy white.  Bought the samples, got them home, put them up on the walls and...

I'm not sold.

And now you know why I said "thank god for paint samples".  Ben would have filed for divorce before I even closed up the paint cans had I bought gallons instead of samples. Yeesh.

I don't know. What do you think? I like Gobi Desert, I guess, and I'm waiting to see what it looks like in natural daylight because I'm sure it's going to look completely different. It's also possible that I'm being indecisive because I'm just not used to something this stark in this room.  Afterall, it's been this dark green shade for five years now. But I don't think that's it. I'm very particular when it comes to color. I know what I like and I know what I feel comfortable with when it comes to painting my walls.

Plus, (and I hate to even admit this) on my way home the second time I had this vision of a persimmon color in that room with a Wheat Bread fireplace and black accents, and it came pretty damn close to melting my heart. My god, I need valium. I plan to inspect Wheat Bread and Gobi Desert tomorrow morning and maybe, juuuuuust maybe I'll stop back at the Depot to see what they have to offer in persimmon. Maybe I'll keep the Wheat Bread on three walls and just do one accent wall, the one with the fireplace and windows, in persimmon. Or, maybe I'll just dive head first off the Cohoes falls and call it a day. Either way, I'll keep you crazy kids posted.

Two things I learned today:

* Lowes told Martha Stewart to take a flying leap, so Martha and her crap are moving on over to Home Depot. Eco-friendly cleaning products are there already, followed by a new line of paint coming in May. The paint lady mentioned that Glidden is providing the base for her line (booo! I'm a Behr fan all the way), and thank goodness for that because the crap she called paint over at Lowes was a complete and total embarrassment to her dynasty. Someone finally woke up.

* There is a specific kind of paint recommended for painting fireplace brick, even if you're only painting the outside. "Masonry, Stucco and Brick" paint is the way to go and it comes in a plethora of colors. Ahhh, you think I'm having a hard time choosing a shade for the walls now? Wait till it's time to paint the brick.

made

2010-03-17T02:01:00.001-04:00

I'm a total tool and never take pictures of the things I make. I need to work on this, I know, and I'm trying. But for now, I rely on friends to help me out. Aaaaaand that's why I owe Kate my life for sharing these shots. I made this quilt for Amelia before she was born, and it makes me so happy to know that they're using it. Hooray for functional gifts!

please vote!

2010-03-15T17:59:00.001-04:00

Okay, folks, I need your help again.

I'm in the process of making a major change in my house and I can't make a decision to save my life. I plan on doing the work this weekend so I'm running out of time. Interested in voting?

I've been dying to paint the outside of my fireplace ever since we bought this house. I've been hesitant to do so only because it seems like such a sin. I love the look of brick, but this particular brick just makes me skin crawl. Very 1960s. I'm also hesitant to re-paint the walls in the same room because they're currently my most favorite shade in the world and I'm reluctant to let go.

Unfortunately, we suffer from dungeonitis in this house. There are so few windows and therefore very, very little natural light, and that just kills me. The color of the walls now, a dark olive green, doesn't help in adding light to the room, so it needs to go. I'm going to go with a linen color for the walls, but I'm stuck with where to go with the fireplace brick. I'm torn between a nice ivory and a high-gloss black. Any suggestions? I'm open to other colors, too, so if you can suggest something, I'm all ears! I realize that this is going to be a drastic change, but one I'm not afraid of one bit. If anything, I look forward to it.

The photo above is the most recent shot I have of this room, and it's not very recent at all. This room looks nothing like this anymore (new furniture, bookcases moved, etc), but you get an idea of the brick and wall colors. I'm keeping the mantle the same...I highly doubt I'll ever change it. All of the woodwork throughout the house is the same cherry color and I love it. Eventually I would love to replace that brass facing with something a little less, uh, tacky, but I can't afford it right now. Basically, I'm looking for a color that will match the walls, match the wood mantle and match the nasty brass facing. Please help.

Cast your vote on the sidebar if you're interested. I'll leave it open for a solid day or two. If you have any additional comments, please leave them. I'd love to hear what you have to say. Thanks!

local and abroad

2010-03-14T11:54:00.001-04:00

Today I:

am making bread from locally grown/harvested/ground whole wheat flour purchased at yesterday's farmers' market. I'll keep you posted on how it turns out!

am dousing myself in a healthy dose of the new Frightened Rabbit album. I've been waiting so long for this and it was worth every second. They're making the long trip from Scotland to the states and making an appearance in NYC next month. I must go. Anyone wanna come with me? April 28th!

having kids without having kids

2010-03-12T10:12:00.005-05:00

I'm not a fan of kids.

I'm sure you know this already if you've been reading this blog for a while. So, yeah, I said it. I obviously love the kids in my family, and my friends' kids are fantastic, so I shouldn't say I don't like kids. I'm just glad I don't have kids of my own. I adore my niece, Lola, as I'm sure you've also probably noticed after reading this blog. She owns the starring role in many posts. It's great to have the ability to have a kid in my life that I can hang with and spoil rotten, and then send home to her mom and dad. Heh.

Anyway, I was sick recently and my little bean, The Lo, left me this message on my machine at home.

If you can't understand her, she says:

Kate, are you better?
Get better, please.
I wub you.
Goodbye.

Gotta love this kid. She rocks my socks off.

giving the old brain a break...

2010-03-11T03:29:00.001-05:00

...or a workout, depending on how you look at it.

I'll admit, I let Lost take over my life for a long time there. I won't go into what's going on in that world right now because I know most of you couldn't care less, nor will I embarrass myself by admitting how far along I am...already. Holy moly, man. That show is nuts!

Anyway...

So, after soaking my brain in Lost brine for the last...I don't know...we'll just call it a long time, I've decided to give it a break, or at least limit my intake to two (or three, or four) episodes a day, and start reading for once. I know what you're thinking..."OH MY GOD! The Wonder

Of It All!" As you can see in the photo above, things are starting to sprout up here (finally!) and I'm biding my time before it's warm enough to go outside and savor the longer days. I'm taking my sweet time getting through this book, and that's intentional because I want to absorb every single word of it. So good. In addition, I'm reading new blogs. I love blogs. I live for blogs. I've probably read your blog. Any of the blogs you see on the side bar over there have been read from the first post to the most current one, and I'm hooked. I love nothing more than to find a new blog, start at the beginning and work my way to the present. And that's what I've been up to.

I just finished three. Well, not just finished, but here's what I've been working on recently:

1. Bread and Honey.
This is the most recent blog I've devoured. I was so sad when I finished it, like reading the perfect book and never wanting to turn that last page. Eek. I know she's not a frequent poster, so I'm going to have to get my fix when I can, but something tells me it's never going to be enough. This is mainly a food blog, but so much more. Alicia talks about her life from time to time, but in a sharp, cutting manner that makes me love her even more. If you're not a fan of sarcasm, don't bother clicking over, but if you want a good laugh, great stories, and cynicism at its finest, check it out.

2. Secret Tongues.

Love me some Emily. I honestly can't remember how I found her, but I know it was over in Flickr-land. Loved her photos and even tracked back to her first upload, making my way to the most recent ones (Emily, I'm not stalking you, I swear!!!). I happened to notice that she had a blog while reading her profile (again, not stalking) and clicked my way into happy times. This is, by far, one of the most honest blogs I've read in a long time. The girl has a way with words, and boy does she have fantastic taste in music. Great photos, great content, even better wit and wisdom. I'm a daily reader. Hear that, Em? Keep posting!

3. My Morning Walk.

I've been a reader of the LittleByrd blog for quite some time and find myself at LittleByrdVintage every day. As one of her customers pointed out, it's "straight from the pages of Anthropologie, but the real thing". I couldn't agree more. She recently started a new blog called My Morning Walk and I'm in love. Her photos are so soft and pretty, the stories simple and meaningful, and if I believed in fairies, I know they'd live in her back yard. This is a nice opportunity to relax and unwind, and indulge in lots of great eye candy, folks. So if you're into that sort of thing, go there. It's worth it.

If you have a blog you think I'd enjoy, say the word! I'll gobble it up!

"If you're so depressed, how come you're eating pizza?"

2010-03-10T10:23:00.003-05:00

So sad.

I'm so sick of all these young celebrity drug-related deaths.

He was only 38.
R.I.P. Corey Haim.

it's about time!

2010-03-09T13:02:00.004-05:00

So, after putting it off for what seems like forever, I've opened an Etsy shop.

I'll be listing more over the course of the day today, but it's slow going. I'm sick as a dog today (hailing the porcelain gods) and moving at a snail's pace. Once my sewing machine is repaired (yes, again!), I'll add some handbags and some of my little pinafores, but for now it's just jewelry.

I'm totally open for comments and suggestions here. I'd love to hear your input. I should also mention that the postal service is moving extra slow lately and though I'm sending all packages as priority mail, it's still taking ages to arrive. I apologize in advance. If you're interested in something and need it shipped quickly, please let me know and I'll do my best!

Thanks!

the inevitable

2010-03-05T03:32:00.000-05:00

the inevitable has happened...

I'm starting to grow a turkey neck.

take a load off

2010-03-04T03:11:00.002-05:00

(photo taken by Carly)

The Lo got bored (and maybe a little bit tired) at Home Depot, so she decided to take a load off. Gotta love how kids think!

Doodle...Draw and a Dollar

2010-03-03T10:04:00.003-05:00

I came into the shop this morning and found two little pieces of paper that someone had slipped under my door. Normally I find pieces of advertising and general junk mail shoved through the small space, but today I was oddly compelled by these colorful cards and thrilled that someone took the time to share them with us here. I have no idea who dropped them off, and if the person responsible for putting them there is reading this, please contact me because I'd love to help out with such a wonderful opportunity.

Doodle...Draw and a Dollar is an event sponsored by the Let Hope Live campaign, a foundation working to eliminate brain cancer in children. The foundation works to provide "hope, encouragement and financial support so that children undergoing treatment can maintain as much normality in their lives as possible". How's that for amazing? Anyway, this particular event sounds like a lot of fun, and I hope some of you, if not all of you, will want to participate.

From their site:

Doodle....Draw and a Dollar!

Just create an animal that is shaped into one letter in our slogan, “LET HOPE LIVE!” Send with $1 dollar entry fee. Chose from 11 letters & an explanation point!

Winner’s creature will be transformed into a puppet. Winning puppet & tees will be distributed to Albany Med Children’s Hospital & Ronald McDonald House. Twelve runners up will have their 'creature' (Letter) on the 2010 Official limited edition tee.

Make up an animal! Let Dr Seuss, your pet, or friend inspire you! Include a story or name your creature in honor of someone. (Not necessary to win) Most of all, have fun as you let hope live!

LET HOPE LIVE & THE ARTS CENTER of the Capital Region will have RENOWNED, ROLLING STONE, GOLF MAGAZINE political artist VICTOR JUHASZ & STEVEN ALCORN offering tips to all with a creature doodle and dollar Friday March 26 5-9 TROY NIGHT OUT (265 River Street Troy, NY) Finalist's ceremony and press conference TROY NIGHT OUT 5 pm. April 30, 2010. Limited edition puppet and tees will be sold beginning Holiday season 2010
Sending drawing provides your acknowledgement drawing may be used to promote the foundation in any way. The Andrew Christian Bryce Foundation is not responsible for lost and misdirected mail. No further notice or compensation due.

Thank you for helping us let hope live in the lives of seriously ill children.

Size no larger than 8 1/2 x 11

Mail yours to:"Let Hope Live!" 9 Duncan Lane Troy, NY 12180Entries without $1 entry do not qualify.

All entries entered in drawing for 1 of 5 puppets and other special items.

DEADLINE WEDNESDAY MARCH 31, 2010

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If you decide to participate, please share your doodles! I'd love to see what you come up with!