tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58451673289633669572024-02-19T21:53:17.245-05:00things alauna makesalaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.comBlogger170125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845167328963366957.post-73941063856148503452010-06-30T21:56:00.006-04:002010-07-01T00:03:33.609-04:0030 days: final week<span style="font-size:85%;">i finished my 30 days of consecutive creativity (with only 1 missed day. but i was with one of my most creative friends that day, so it evens out.) it was fairly easy to be creative at home, but we traveled multiple times and hosted a number of guests during june, so pairing my creativity with housework, baby care, photography (which wasn't always creative) and entertaining and i'll admit there were difficult days. here's the final run down:<br /><br />june 22/last day of ballet for the summer<br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCwK66aRNMI/AAAAAAAACU4/1SMxfcP0m7A/s800/ballet.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 350px; height: 233px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCwK66aRNMI/AAAAAAAACU4/1SMxfcP0m7A/s800/ballet.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />june 23/</span><span style="font-size:85%;">read all my brand new patterns and got thuper excited to sew </span><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCwLyHCnBDI/AAAAAAAACVM/9SPk6rxbyx8/s800/patterns.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 349px; height: 232px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCwLyHCnBDI/AAAAAAAACVM/9SPk6rxbyx8/s800/patterns.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />june 24/</span><span style="font-size:85%;">post storm photo (missed the rainbow by <span style="font-style: italic;">thismuch</span>)<br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCwK7rH9s9I/AAAAAAAACU8/PI51Gte8G8Y/s800/storm.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 350px; height: 234px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCwK7rH9s9I/AAAAAAAACU8/PI51Gte8G8Y/s800/storm.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;">june 25/made chicken, veggies, and a mix of noodles into stir fry (no photo here. but no fail, as i had to get creative with my ingredients and then we ate it.)<br /><br />june 26/floral "macro" (50 mm 1.8 as i didn't have my 100mm macro along)<br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCwS8UPC5_I/AAAAAAAACVo/WVbM-SDDgM0/s512/macro%20floral1.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 310px; height: 453px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCwS8UPC5_I/AAAAAAAACVo/WVbM-SDDgM0/s512/macro%20floral1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />june 27/trifold brochure help for my aunt ("designed" in word[!])<br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCwMy8CFQnI/AAAAAAAACVU/ByXT5BDT0I8/s800/golf%20trifold.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 528px; height: 172px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCwMy8CFQnI/AAAAAAAACVU/ByXT5BDT0I8/s800/golf%20trifold.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />june 28/worked on yarn hanging lamp<br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCwK7032REI/AAAAAAAACVA/AoUgDR0MqY4/s800/yarn%20lamp.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 349px; height: 232px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCwK7032REI/AAAAAAAACVA/AoUgDR0MqY4/s800/yarn%20lamp.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />june 29/i hate comic sans<br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCwLCxsa_XI/AAAAAAAACVI/gTYhfxfXzEg/s800/comic%20sans.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 356px; height: 138px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCwLCxsa_XI/AAAAAAAACVI/gTYhfxfXzEg/s800/comic%20sans.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />june 30/30days survival badge</span><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCwLCp4_9nI/AAAAAAAACVE/cvKZoX36PxY/s800/30%20days.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 351px; height: 132px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCwLCp4_9nI/AAAAAAAACVE/cvKZoX36PxY/s800/30%20days.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></div>alaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845167328963366957.post-59122699123870544882010-06-23T21:34:00.007-04:002010-06-25T01:00:42.090-04:00creativity: week 3<span style="font-size:85%;">week three of creativity and i found it a bit harder due to travel. this week had a few less creative days paired with some pretty goods ones, so i definitely don't feel as great about it.<br /><br />june 15/laid out invitations for print<br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCLGM0isn9I/AAAAAAAACUA/9fXDgO6qs5M/s512/peterson%2050th%20postcard%20front.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 350px; height: 508px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCLGM0isn9I/AAAAAAAACUA/9fXDgO6qs5M/s512/peterson%2050th%20postcard%20front.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />june 16/took photo of finn plus basic edit (catch lights in eyes!)<br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCLHpxZ6rxI/AAAAAAAACUM/4M5yW8ySPvs/s800/6.16%20changing%20table1.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 350px; height: 233px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCLHpxZ6rxI/AAAAAAAACUM/4M5yW8ySPvs/s800/6.16%20changing%20table1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />june 17/collected fabric samples for table runner<br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCLHdC4QvTI/AAAAAAAACUI/p-ZSRWngD04/fabric.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 352px; height: 537px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCLHdC4QvTI/AAAAAAAACUI/p-ZSRWngD04/fabric.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />june 18/met with a creative friend? for real, this day i can't think of a specific thing because i was busy and then we drove 6 hours. i fail...<br /><br />june 19/took photos of finn and his grandpa<br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCLPjfQysaI/AAAAAAAACUg/9Y78ixpSSXA/s800/finn%20gpa%20golf%20bw.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 352px; height: 235px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCLPjfQysaI/AAAAAAAACUg/9Y78ixpSSXA/s800/finn%20gpa%20golf%20bw.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />june 20/took photos of finn and his grandma (also got some of him and his daddy)<br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCLPknqzEaI/AAAAAAAACUk/_sqFoW-ly7Q/s800/gma%20finn.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 349px; height: 239px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCLPknqzEaI/AAAAAAAACUk/_sqFoW-ly7Q/s800/gma%20finn.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />june 21/milkshake graphic print for fun<br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCLGMK8ujkI/AAAAAAAACT8/e2NvgKEZ3qk/s800/MILKSHAKE.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 350px; height: 222px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TCLGMK8ujkI/AAAAAAAACT8/e2NvgKEZ3qk/s800/MILKSHAKE.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />i vow to be better this week!</span> <span style="font-size:85%;">andplusalso, i still owe you some ice cream/sorbet recipes and some sewing info. soon!</span>alaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845167328963366957.post-55946096067204674412010-06-16T20:57:00.004-04:002010-06-16T22:01:37.243-04:0030 days: week 2<span style="font-size:85%;">i am only slightly late here...but my weeks of creativity in june continue to go well. and yes, i promise to blog separately about the ice creams and crafts and such that can be replicated by others. it's just that finding time to be creative is hard on it's own when you have a 15 week old, a house to keep semi-livable, and a busy summer and getting in these creativity recaps is time consuming!<br /><br />june 8/working on a photobook (lol, screen shot of my desktop)<br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TBl8d59HnhI/AAAAAAAACTU/VYGuebnBZpk/s800/photobook.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 350px; height: 219px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TBl8d59HnhI/AAAAAAAACTU/VYGuebnBZpk/s800/photobook.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />june 9/</span><span style="font-size:85%;">edited a photo i took (bw conversion)<br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TBl8ZLjySUI/AAAAAAAACTQ/GIOpJQpMRaQ/s512/IMG_7743.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 234px; height: 352px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TBl8ZLjySUI/AAAAAAAACTQ/GIOpJQpMRaQ/s512/IMG_7743.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a></span><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />june 10/made oreo and chocolate chip cookie dough truffle balls<br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TBl70AUXFZI/AAAAAAAACTI/gOrtEbxtHOk/s512/truffles%20choc%20chip%202.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 234px; height: 351px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TBl70AUXFZI/AAAAAAAACTI/gOrtEbxtHOk/s512/truffles%20choc%20chip%202.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />june 11/painted toes and creatively added (heat backed...) rhinestones and white dots<br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TBl7n-NEDBI/AAAAAAAACTE/XQIaPZnDIqY/s800/toes.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 350px; height: 233px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TBl7n-NEDBI/AAAAAAAACTE/XQIaPZnDIqY/s800/toes.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />june 12/coconut cachaca sorbet<br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TBl70RP8eaI/AAAAAAAACTM/sY0FIgr74YA/s800/coconut%20cachaca%20sorbet.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 350px; height: 233px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TBl70RP8eaI/AAAAAAAACTM/sY0FIgr74YA/s800/coconut%20cachaca%20sorbet.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />june 13/revised invitations for an anniversary party</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">&</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">june 14/finished anniversary invites </span><span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />(they're ready for print, so i added in the off-white background for visual effect for the .jpg file - the lace holes will match in real life)</span></span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TBl-WzIghCI/AAAAAAAACTc/UJRbWbQGc-E/s512/peterson%2050th%20invite.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 191px; height: 466px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TBl-WzIghCI/AAAAAAAACTc/UJRbWbQGc-E/s512/peterson%2050th%20invite.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div></span>alaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845167328963366957.post-33699955815133913432010-06-07T23:10:00.007-04:002010-06-08T23:12:10.527-04:0030 days of creativity: week 1week one of my <a href="http://alaunamakes.blogspot.com/2010/06/30-days-of-creativity.html">30 days of creativity</a> is complete! i had no trouble being creative. here's the roundup:<br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br />june 1/birth announcement poster for finn (outline added for white background)<br /><div style="text-align: center;"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 350px; height: 350px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TA24IF7izsI/AAAAAAAACRQ/J694wgZV34A/s512/finn%20birth%20poster.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br />june 2/birthday card for someone special (maybe she's not reading...)<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TA263hrohvI/AAAAAAAACSU/_jeEK-B-wDE/june-bday.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 351px; height: 356px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TA263hrohvI/AAAAAAAACSU/_jeEK-B-wDE/june-bday.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br />june 3/long exposure photos using finn's baby monitor</span><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TA8FkFakanI/AAAAAAAACSw/GFFm77oxNpA/s800/finley%20lights.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 496px; height: 119px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TA8FkFakanI/AAAAAAAACSw/GFFm77oxNpA/s800/finley%20lights.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><br />june 4/edited photos (black & white conversions of my friends little girls)<br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TA24v_kmmWI/AAAAAAAACR4/KBgqXMYaTWU/s512/isa%20bw.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 225px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TA24v_kmmWI/AAAAAAAACR4/KBgqXMYaTWU/s512/isa%20bw.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TA24vSzT1eI/AAAAAAAACR0/pRGamOrVjsI/s720/gabby4.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 338px; height: 225px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TA24vSzT1eI/AAAAAAAACR0/pRGamOrVjsI/s720/gabby4.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;">june 5/coconut saffron ice cream<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TA24JReaYkI/AAAAAAAACRc/uHEv5VdElhY/coconut%20saffron.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 425px; height: 284px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TA24JReaYkI/AAAAAAAACRc/uHEv5VdElhY/coconut%20saffron.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />june 6/photo of my umbrella on the beach<br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:small;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TA24wF83Z4I/AAAAAAAACR8/qOwnOGJH1fM/s800/umbrella.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 425px; height: 284px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TA24wF83Z4I/AAAAAAAACR8/qOwnOGJH1fM/s800/umbrella.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span><br />june 7/polka dot baby gear (paci leash, toy leash, burp cloth)<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TA24IjBgKQI/AAAAAAAACRU/3A155ovXIrU/s800/baby%20gear.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 425px; height: 284px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TA24IjBgKQI/AAAAAAAACRU/3A155ovXIrU/s800/baby%20gear.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />i'll blog about the goods in future posts, but i wanted to be sure to post this week's creative endeavors all in one.</span>alaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845167328963366957.post-35922369047006522112010-06-07T19:35:00.002-04:002010-06-07T23:10:05.525-04:00custom address stamp<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TARMN-QH6MI/AAAAAAAACQs/aWlHkU2VS8w/address%20label.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 348px; height: 174px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TARMN-QH6MI/AAAAAAAACQs/aWlHkU2VS8w/address%20label.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">upon moving to our current condo, which we plan to stay in for a little while, i decided to design<br />a custom address stamp. with all of the recent thank you cards and upcoming events, i knew i'd be writing my return address quite a few times, otherwise. i had designed a custom monogram stamp for my wedding so i already knew i would use </span><a href="http://rubberstamps.net/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">rubberstamps.net</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">. (they are not paying me anything to recommend them, but their turnaround time, prices, and customer service can't be beat, so i certainly don't mind giving them business!)<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TARMNOzLl0I/AAAAAAAACQg/lsMokgolplg/s912/address%20stamp3.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 190px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TARMNOzLl0I/AAAAAAAACQg/lsMokgolplg/s912/address%20stamp3.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></span></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TARMNTaPuKI/AAAAAAAACQk/CdOa8h_sse4/s912/address%20stamp1.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 190px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TARMNTaPuKI/AAAAAAAACQk/CdOa8h_sse4/s912/address%20stamp1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />i wanted a simple, modern design, so i used the same little dachshund silhouette from the baby onesie thank you card. i am fond of lowercase, so of course i use tiny letters to spell out our last name and full address. i have (hopefully) blurred it out enough on the images so you don't come and stalk me at my home, but rest assured the stamp produces a perfect image.<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TARMM5EgsuI/AAAAAAAACQc/C7ZHrzE4ouw/s912/address%20stamp4.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 190px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TARMM5EgsuI/AAAAAAAACQc/C7ZHrzE4ouw/s912/address%20stamp4.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></span></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TARMNkUh6pI/AAAAAAAACQo/RHvEndqtKTY/s912/address%20stamp2.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 190px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TARMNkUh6pI/AAAAAAAACQo/RHvEndqtKTY/s912/address%20stamp2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />to send to rubberstamps.net, you need to upload a .jpg file at 300 dpi so they can get a clean image to create the stamp from. i chose the size of my stamp, sent my image, and had my custom return address stamp in less than a week. plus, i paid less than $10 for it. love!</span>alaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845167328963366957.post-9370394316984425452010-06-05T12:02:00.002-04:002010-06-07T23:10:34.179-04:00fennel, onion, and pea risotto<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQakK-7bfI/AAAAAAAACP4/aAujFdbAV4s/s912/risotto.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 425px; height: 283px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQakK-7bfI/AAAAAAAACP4/aAujFdbAV4s/s912/risotto.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">just a few days before we had finn, we celebrated our last valentine's day as a duo. you might remember the little </span><a href="http://alaunamakes.blogspot.com/2010/02/chocolate-cheesecake-tarts.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">chocolate cheescake tarts</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> we enjoyed for dessert. but before that, we made and ate a meal of italian risotto and crab legs. having never made risotto, i left the stirring and watching to husband after i prepped the ingredients. we used a pretty basic recipe found </span><a href="http://www.newitalianrecipes.com/fennel-and-onion-risotto.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">here</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQagp_poyI/AAAAAAAACPY/PYDAWbwsojc/s912/risotto7.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 199px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQagp_poyI/AAAAAAAACPY/PYDAWbwsojc/s912/risotto7.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></span></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQahKKX7RI/AAAAAAAACPc/WRJskmI9ka4/s912/risotto6.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 199px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQahKKX7RI/AAAAAAAACPc/WRJskmI9ka4/s912/risotto6.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQaikEzzTI/AAAAAAAACPo/91CRxhFQvh0/s912/risotto3.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 199px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQaikEzzTI/AAAAAAAACPo/91CRxhFQvh0/s912/risotto3.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></span></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQahVzqBwI/AAAAAAAACPg/cre2TLzGUZQ/s912/risotto5.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 199px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQahVzqBwI/AAAAAAAACPg/cre2TLzGUZQ/s912/risotto5.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">uploading images to picasa causes them to appear even more underexposed than they are...<br /></span></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">fennel, onion, and pea risotto </span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">(adapted from new italian recipes)<br />1 c arborio rice<br />3 + 3 tbsp e.v. olive oil<br />1 large onion, coarsely chopped<br />1 large fennel bulb, white part chopped coarsely, plus a few pieces of greens<br />1 1/2 c peas<br />1/4 c fresh basil, finely chopped<br />1/2 c dry white wine (chardonnay, sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio)<br />6 c chicken stock<br />1/2 c pecorino romano cheese<br />2 tbsp butter<br />1/4 c fresh parsley, finely chopped<br />1/4 c grated parmigiano-reggiano</span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />1. bring chicken stock to a slow simmer in a large sauce pan or soup pan, add in basil and fennel greens<br />2. in a large skillet, heat 3 tbsp olive oil to medium low, then add onions and fennel and cover<br />3. let the vegetables soften and release their juices for at least ten minutes then remove to a separate bowl<br />4. add the other 3 tbsp of olive oil to the same pan for 30 seconds, then add arborio rice, tossing in oil<br /></span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">5. add the onions and fennel back in<br />6. add white wine and let reduce by about 3/4<br />7.</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> add a ladle or two of the barely simmering stock, stir a little, make sure risotto is completely covered with juices and simmer over low heat<br />8. when the liquid is absorbed and just below the top of the rice, add more stock<br />9. repeat these steps for about fifteen minutes, stirring occasionally<br />10. add peas and let simmer until liquid is reduce by half<br />11. test for tenderness; when rice reaches a "soft with a small bite" state, add cheese and butter and stir<br />12. allow to cook until almost all liquid is absorbed, then remove from heat</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />13. let the dish stand for about 5 minutes, then serve topped with a bit more grated parmigiano-reggiano and chopped parsley </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQahvlLJ4I/AAAAAAAACPk/WN6CoY5fplE/s912/risotto4.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 199px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQahvlLJ4I/AAAAAAAACPk/WN6CoY5fplE/s912/risotto4.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></span></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQajX896iI/AAAAAAAACPs/HEhMqung6Hk/s912/risotto2.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 200px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQajX896iI/AAAAAAAACPs/HEhMqung6Hk/s912/risotto2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />and so we prepared the risotto and in the last few minutes, we steamed the crab legs. we don't, however, have a proper pot in which to steam and the result of our efforts was hilarious. once finished, they barely fit on the serving platter. the one thing we do have for crab legs are tiny little forks. we used knives rather than crackers and because i am a semi-professional crab leg eater, i can get large chunks of meat out in this fashion.</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQajnmkCeI/AAAAAAAACPw/sJcMEZD8znY/s912/risotto%20crab%20legs.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 199px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQajnmkCeI/AAAAAAAACPw/sJcMEZD8znY/s912/risotto%20crab%20legs.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></span></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.blogger.com/%20http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQakSBHxzI/AAAAAAAACP8/2ENTONY0_Fg/s912/risotto%20vday.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 199px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQakSBHxzI/AAAAAAAACP8/2ENTONY0_Fg/s912/risotto%20vday.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">attack of the crab!</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">back to the risotto. fab.u.lous. the flavors were perfectly mellow, the herbs and vegetables cooked down and blended with the soft rice. and when you add cheese and butter to a slowly simmered dish, you simply cannot go wrong. we both ate large portions for dinner (mixed with warm crab meat) and were able to have fancy leftovers the next day.<br /><br />i thought risotto was time consuming with constant stirring and lots of effort, but i was wrong. i can't wait to try more! i recently had lobster risotto at a local italian restaurant and can imagine myself making that in the future...and there are plenty of other flavors to test out :)</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQaj3ZfwkI/AAAAAAAACP0/vWaEb7vobhk/s912/risotto1.jpg"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 425px; height: 283px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQaj3ZfwkI/AAAAAAAACP0/vWaEb7vobhk/s912/risotto1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></span></a><br /></div>alaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845167328963366957.post-81375061436722805032010-06-02T23:34:00.004-04:002010-06-07T23:10:13.899-04:0030 days of creativity<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">i came across </span><a href="http://30daysofcreativity.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">this website</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> announcing a challenge for 30 days of creativity during the month of june. i decided i could commit to that (baby and all) and am going to try and blog at the end of each week with pictures of the things i made.</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">i've already gotten started (since yesterday was june 1) and have got ideas ready for the next few days. i'm not participating for real, i guess, because i abhor twitter. i don't write @anyone and using the #hashtagwhateveritis bugs the hashtag right out of me. but, i'll share here and maybe inspire someone else to be creative in their daily life. feel free to join in!</span></div>alaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845167328963366957.post-43701163420181869322010-06-02T12:56:00.001-04:002010-06-02T12:56:00.054-04:00baby thank yous<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQG5iaMtMI/AAAAAAAACO8/HoPdIkTbNyk/s912/baby%20thankyou1.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 425px; height: 283px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQG5iaMtMI/AAAAAAAACO8/HoPdIkTbNyk/s912/baby%20thankyou1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">i promise not to turn this into a baby only blog, but i can't help but post a few baby-related items because, well, having a baby is rather consuming.<br /><br />i made these thank you cards for shower gifts and other wonderful items we received along the way. finn has been so lucky and is spoiled beyond belief. i made 50 thank you cards and have one left (and it's ready to be written in and sent)!</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQG4-YFO8I/AAAAAAAACO0/N6_tY0bXUIA/s576/baby%20thank%20you%20doxie1.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 173px; height: 260px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQG4-YFO8I/AAAAAAAACO0/N6_tY0bXUIA/s576/baby%20thank%20you%20doxie1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQG5dO7H2I/AAAAAAAACO4/glR_u8AFT1s/s912/baby%20thankyou%20doxie2.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 392px; height: 260px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQG5dO7H2I/AAAAAAAACO4/glR_u8AFT1s/s912/baby%20thankyou%20doxie2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">in honor of the first born dogsons, i made a card with a simple dachshund onesie. i designed it in illustrator and used my gocco to print in aqua ink on white cardstock. while the ink was till wet i coated it with clear embossing powder and used my heat gun to emboss.</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQG4XpySUI/AAAAAAAACOw/m3-gxOIQToM/s912/baby%20thank%20safety%20pin1.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 424px; height: 283px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/TAQG4XpySUI/AAAAAAAACOw/m3-gxOIQToM/s912/baby%20thank%20safety%20pin1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;">for the safety pin card, i drew a quick classic diaper pin. i again used my gocco and printed in silver ink. i embossed in the same way as the aqua ink, but the silver didn't raise as smooth and glossy. they were still adorable!<br /><br />i hope the folks that received these thank you cards were pleased to see the little details. a card can hardly express how thoughtful they are and how thankful we are, but the gesture is the least we can do.</span><br /></div></div>alaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845167328963366957.post-43917659373291285552010-05-31T14:47:00.005-04:002010-05-31T14:55:22.113-04:00i'm baaaack/mobile tutorial<span style="font-size:85%;">oh hai. i have been busy :) my baby just turned 3 months and i've had requests (demands?) to get my butt in gear and resume blogging. so i will do my best but i make no promises. before i continue, i'm sure you want to see finn, right?<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://alauna.smugmug.com/Baby/finley-months-3/bubble-shorts2/883114802_TWsK3-M.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 425px; height: 283px;" src="http://alauna.smugmug.com/Baby/finley-months-3/bubble-shorts2/883114802_TWsK3-M.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></span></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />and since we're talking about finn, i'm going to share a diy mobile i made for above his crib. if you haven't seen, this is what it looks like:<br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="http://alauna.smugmug.com/Baby/nursery/crib-and-mobile/837874082_xM239-L.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://alauna.smugmug.com/Baby/nursery/crib-and-mobile/837874082_xM239-L.jpg" border="0" height="400" width="272" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />the mobile is based off of a beautiful piece i found at <a href="http://www.fawnandforest.com/categories/16-mobiles/products/2083-frazier-wing-sunshine-mobile">fawn & forest</a>. but i was on a budget for decor items and couldn't spend quite that much on a mobile. this was an experiment and i did it without measuring or planning ahead. as a warning, keep away from baby as there is a risk of tangling from the craft line (i have mine securely hung quite far above the crib).</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><a href="http://alauna.smugmug.com/Baby/nursery/mobile-combo/837874140_a2Git-M.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://alauna.smugmug.com/Baby/nursery/mobile-combo/837874140_a2Git-M.jpg" border="0" height="292" width="400" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><i>materials:</i><br />colored cardstock (about 5 sheets)<br />circle punch<br />paperboard disc (i spray painted mine yellow)<br />clear craft line<br />needle<br /><br />this mobile has 7 strands with 9 circle discs on each strand<br /><br />1. make circles out of cardstock using punch, 63 in total (more for mistakes)<br />2. punch a needle hole through the center of each disc<br />3. cut 7 long strands of craft line and tie a small knot at one end of each<br />4. thread a disc along the craft line (the knot keeps it in place)<br />5. about 2 inches up, tie another knot, thread another disc<br />6. repeat process of knot + disc 9 times per strand<br />7. repeat threading process for all 7 strands<br />8. punch 7 holes into edge of paperboard disc, evenly spaced around the perimeter<br />9. thread each strand through a hole from the bottom and tie a knot in each at the top<br />10. punch 4 holes into paperboard disc at 12, 3, 6, and 9 (as on a clock)<br />11. cut 2 long strands of craft line of equal length and tie a knot at the end of each<br />12. from the bottom, thread a strand up from hole "12" and down into "6", tie a knot to secure<br />13. repeat from "3" to "9" (these strands should fold in half and cross over at the peak)<br />14. cut a strand of craft line, tie at the cross point of the two crossed hanging strands<br />15. hang (i used a 3m command hook to hang from the ceiling)<br /><br />confused? here's a simple diagram:</span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><a href="http://i692.photobucket.com/albums/vv283/babyh3b/mobilediagram.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://i692.photobucket.com/albums/vv283/babyh3b/mobilediagram.jpg" border="0" height="640" width="372" /></a></div><br /><br />as you can see, this is an inexpensive alternative. it took a while to complete because punching 60+ discs (thanks husband!) and needles holes and tying a ton of knots does require some time. but it looks great hanging in the nursery and finley loves to watch it as the air from the ceiling fan blows the discs gently.alaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845167328963366957.post-43300936022936897322010-03-04T19:08:00.004-05:002010-03-04T19:12:44.464-05:00the baby has arrived!<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://i692.photobucket.com/albums/vv283/babyh3b/finleyholden.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 550px; height: 261px;" src="http://i692.photobucket.com/albums/vv283/babyh3b/finleyholden.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">my baby boy arrived exactly one month early at 36 weeks. finley holden was born last friday on 2.26.10, 5lb 14oz and 20 inches. he is the sweetest, most precious being and we are more in love than i ever thought possible. husband and i have spent most of the time since his birth watching him do amazing baby things, just in awe.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">as such, posts about crafts and food are on hold. i simply cannot tear myself away for more than this post ;) see you soon!</span>alaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845167328963366957.post-85602972536453278252010-02-25T10:34:00.000-05:002010-02-25T10:34:00.163-05:00empty frame wall art<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SQt4XNK2I/AAAAAAAACOI/jmz8CcDR35Y/s576/frames7.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 337px; height: 505px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SQt4XNK2I/AAAAAAAACOI/jmz8CcDR35Y/s576/frames7.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;">since we moved into our new condo, we've started to actually decorate our space. some of that comes from big purchases like new living room furniture (and an entire nursery...), but lots of it has come from reusing our old decor and making it new, or searching for budget friendly options to spruce up the walls and surfaces.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">i edited my favorite photos into black and white and filled some old frames to display them in the entryway. we've purchased some glassware to decorate the mantle, which now also holds an old mirror that looks so much better there than where we used to use it. obviously, i did the curtains and pin up prints for one of the bathrooms. our guest bath is vintage style too, but mostly because it had royal blue floral wall paper and a shabby chic white shower curtain when we moved it - so i've been finding hobnail milk glass to accent the small but adorable space.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">my latest project has been this affordable and fun frame wall.</span><br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SQsLLwk_I/AAAAAAAACNw/vRgfL8rARjg/s912/frames1.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 265px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SQsLLwk_I/AAAAAAAACNw/vRgfL8rARjg/s912/frames1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;">i found these frames at a thrift store and was so lucky that they were without backing and priced between 50 cents and two dollars. i scooped up a whole bunch and found a matching mirror for a whopping three dollars. i bought a small can of white paint on sale, some picture wire, and a few eye screws.</span><br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SQs0_EKoI/AAAAAAAACN4/ITJze4hH4sg/s912/frames3.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 190px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SQs0_EKoI/AAAAAAAACN4/ITJze4hH4sg/s912/frames3.jpg" alt="" border="0" /> </a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SQsnbtiyI/AAAAAAAACN0/PB_bZxISVlA/s912/frames2.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 190px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SQsnbtiyI/AAAAAAAACN0/PB_bZxISVlA/s912/frames2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;">i skipped the initial sanding step (because i am lazy) and went straight into two coats of paint. i used fine sand paper to clean up the edges and to rub in some wear to various parts of each frame. husband used his strength to screw in the eyes and i strung some picture wire along the back.</span><br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SQtCgMdMI/AAAAAAAACN8/LIeTyYXjWOs/s912/frames4.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SQtCgMdMI/AAAAAAAACN8/LIeTyYXjWOs/s912/frames4.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;">the hardest part was deciding on the layout and moving it from the floor version to the wall. i gave up on the measure/math portion and let husband figure that part out.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">we hung them in a small hallway where the mirror really brings in some light and the whole arrangement fits perfectly. in a last minute decision, we chose to include the door buzzer within the "art" because ew can't very well take it down.</span><br /></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SQtcFSMxI/AAAAAAAACOA/KjbIHQFjKl4/s576/frames5.jpg"> </a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SQtmWwEVI/AAAAAAAACOE/Da1scrtNjT0/s576/frames6.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 399px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SQtmWwEVI/AAAAAAAACOE/Da1scrtNjT0/s576/frames6.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SQtcFSMxI/AAAAAAAACOA/KjbIHQFjKl4/s576/frames5.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 399px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SQtcFSMxI/AAAAAAAACOA/KjbIHQFjKl4/s576/frames5.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SQtcFSMxI/AAAAAAAACOA/KjbIHQFjKl4/s576/frames5.jpg"> </a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SQtcFSMxI/AAAAAAAACOA/KjbIHQFjKl4/s576/frames5.jpg"> </a></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />i love this. it was cheap, easy, and i think it looks fantastic. a perfect way to re-purpose old frames you might have - the more variety and wear and tear, the better it looks.</span>alaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845167328963366957.post-18281366485733477842010-02-23T21:45:00.004-05:002010-02-23T22:22:43.301-05:00chocolate cheesecake tarts<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SN1GdJz5I/AAAAAAAACNk/yK0B5-zHQWM/s912/choc%20cheesecake%20tarts7.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 491px; height: 326px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SN1GdJz5I/AAAAAAAACNk/yK0B5-zHQWM/s912/choc%20cheesecake%20tarts7.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">our last valentine's day as a couple without children was spent at home, relaxing and cooking. we decided to do dinner in, similar to last year but without the multi-course meal. i can't stand for that long and can't fit that much food in my already stretched to capacity belly. (as a recap, i am 35 weeks pregnant)<br /><br />the dinner post is coming after the dessert post because these little tarts are too cute not to share right now. (and already they are late, since valentine's day was over a week ago) i knew i wanted something chocolate and i really wanted to use my tart pans for the first time. i figured little fudgey cheesecakes with chocolate crusts and berries on top fit the festive theme.</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SNzVNjakI/AAAAAAAACNM/TF6xXoxPN_M/s912/choc%20cheesecake%20tarts1.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 234px; height: 155px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SNzVNjakI/AAAAAAAACNM/TF6xXoxPN_M/s912/choc%20cheesecake%20tarts1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SNzkZ9bvI/AAAAAAAACNQ/XA5Tm8Z5Vt0/s912/choc%20cheesecake%20tarts2.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 234px; height: 155px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SNzkZ9bvI/AAAAAAAACNQ/XA5Tm8Z5Vt0/s912/choc%20cheesecake%20tarts2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SNz2S7F4I/AAAAAAAACNU/X-QdgoBdONQ/s912/choc%20cheesecake%20tarts3.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 473px; height: 312px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SNz2S7F4I/AAAAAAAACNU/X-QdgoBdONQ/s912/choc%20cheesecake%20tarts3.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;">(poor teddy graham had no idea what was coming...)</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;">i wasn't concerned about the crust. chocolate grahams, butter, and a touch of sugar. to be honest, i didn't fully measure. plus, the grocery store carries no chocolate graham crackers, so i was forced to chop up teddy grahams for the cause.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">chocolate graham crust </span>(for 8-10 mini tart pans)<br />1 c chocolate grahams, pulsed to crumbs in a food processor<br />1/8 c melted butter (give or take)<br />1 tbsp sugar<br /><br />1. mix together - should stick together slightly and hold shaped when pressed (adjust graham and butter ratios to reach this consistency)<br />2. scoop into tart pans and press around bottom and up sides<br />3. bake at 350F for about 5 minutes, cool</span><br /></div></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SN0lrKN-I/AAAAAAAACNc/C5km5aNUGtU/s912/choc%20cheesecake%20tarts4.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 473px; height: 312.5px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SN0lrKN-I/AAAAAAAACNc/C5km5aNUGtU/s912/choc%20cheesecake%20tarts4.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:78%;" ><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SN0VulmQI/AAAAAAAACNY/_4UinZseuWs/s912/choc%20cheesecake%20tars5.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 236px; height: 155px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SN0VulmQI/AAAAAAAACNY/_4UinZseuWs/s912/choc%20cheesecake%20tars5.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SN09YeimI/AAAAAAAACNg/eTr-FOYOapk/s912/choc%20cheesecake%20tarts6.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 237px; height: 155px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SN09YeimI/AAAAAAAACNg/eTr-FOYOapk/s912/choc%20cheesecake%20tarts6.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />for the filling, i found a basic cheesecake recipe on <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Rich-Chocolate-Cheesecake/Detail.aspx">allrecipes.com</a> and adjusted to fit my smaller servings. i used about 1/3 of the original recipe and skipped the sour cream topping.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">chocolate cheesecake filling</span> (adapted from mary walker on all recipes)<br />1 8 oz package cream cheese, softened<br />1/4 c sugar<br />1 egg<br />1 tbsp strong brewed coffee<br />1/2 tsp vanilla extract<br />1/4 c baking cocoa<br />1/3 c semisweet chocolate chips<br /><br />1. beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth<br />2. add eggs; beat on low speed just until combined<br />3. stir in coffee and vanilla then beat in cocoa just until blended<br />4. stir in chocolate chips<br />5. using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop filling into prepared tart pans <br />6. place on a baking sheet and bake at 375F for 12-15 minutes or until center is almost set<br />7. cool on a wire rack, then transfer to the refrigerator to chill<br />8. best served with berries<br /></span><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SN1_4dEBI/AAAAAAAACNs/-2o9aoICAqg/s912/choc%20cheesecake%20tarts8.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 299px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S4SN1_4dEBI/AAAAAAAACNs/-2o9aoICAqg/s912/choc%20cheesecake%20tarts8.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;">this is an extremely rich little dessert. it really was like cheesecake fudge with a crumbly chocolate crust. it's so rich that the berries were a must - a bit of fresh flavor to cut the chocolate. but oh so good! and everything is better when cutely packaged - these tart pans (the round are from william's sonoma and the ovals are from a local antique shop) are perfect for individual desserts.<br /><br />as a note, they were best after being in the fridge overnight (day 2), but by day 3 they had hit their max. i can't imagine anyone making it longer than that ;)</span><br /></div></div>alaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845167328963366957.post-6401021657930580552010-02-18T16:24:00.003-05:002010-02-18T17:07:10.403-05:00blueberry malt pancakes<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mWeK40lrI/AAAAAAAACKs/Cvh2Skb8TdU/s912/pancakes4.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mWeK40lrI/AAAAAAAACKs/Cvh2Skb8TdU/s912/pancakes4.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;">in a breakfast for dinner mood, i planned my weekly grocery trip with that in mind. how lucky was i when blueberries were 99 cents a container (vs. $3.99). i bought three packages on the spot and decided blueberry pancakes with breakfast sausage would fit the bill. when i got home, i set out to find a new pancake recipe to try. if you're doing easy dinner, it's always nice to try something new.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">i was fresh off a cook's illustrated pancake recipe that is divine, so my expectations were high. when i came across a "<a href="http://www.kingarthurflour.com/recipes/simply-perfect-pancakes-recipe">simply perfect pancake</a>" recipe from king arthur flour that listed malt powder as an ingredient, i was more than intrigued. apparently the malt replaces the sugar which makes for fluffy, diner-like pancakes.</span><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mWcVuuVeI/AAAAAAAACKU/93NoLOC8YiY/s912/pancakes1.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 190px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mWcVuuVeI/AAAAAAAACKU/93NoLOC8YiY/s912/pancakes1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mWc3SdbcI/AAAAAAAACKc/a3Iz8kOlDLc/s912/pancakes5.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 190px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mWc3SdbcI/AAAAAAAACKc/a3Iz8kOlDLc/s912/pancakes5.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;">obviously, i adapted these to make blueberry pancakes, but the recipe stays the same until the berries.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">blueberry malt pancakes</span> (adapted from perfect pancakes by king arthur flour)</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">2 large eggs</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">1 1/4 c milk</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">3 tbsp melted butter or vegetable oil</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">1 1/2 c flour</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">3/4 tsp salt</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">2 tsp baking powder</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">1/4 c malted milk powder</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">1 pint blueberries</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">1. beat eggs and milk until foamy</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">2. stir in butter or vegetable oil</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">3. whisk dry ingredients and gently combine with egg and milk mixture</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">4. let batter rest while griddle or non-stick pan* heats up</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">5. pour 1/4-1/3 cupfuls of batter onto hot surface, then drop in a few blueberries to each</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">6. cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook the other side until brown</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">7. always serve with butter and syrup, side of sausages optional</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mWdSyP6vI/AAAAAAAACKg/WXaKvWtKRSE/s912/pancakes2.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 190px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mWdSyP6vI/AAAAAAAACKg/WXaKvWtKRSE/s912/pancakes2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mWdnYklTI/AAAAAAAACKk/m005DTS3LSo/s912/pancakes3.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 190px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mWdnYklTI/AAAAAAAACKk/m005DTS3LSo/s912/pancakes3.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></span><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">*just a shout out to my new non-stick pan, the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Cuisinart-GreenGourmet-Eco-Friendly-8-Inch-Skillet/dp/B0019KKMFS/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=home-garden&qid=1266529291&sr=8-1">cuisinart green gourmet</a> 10" eco-friendly skillet. and no, this was not free, no one gave me anything to write this little review (but if cuisinart reads this, i'm open for testing!). this is a fabulous pan - things glide right out with no greasing and it's good for the earth. i got the 10" because it's perfect for omelets and small jobs, but honestly it was too small for circular pancakes. i have other non-stick options but i love this pan so much i was ok with crescent shapes. i want to keep it nice, so i have not put it in the dishwasher, instead i promptly hand wash after each use, plus NO metal utensils near the surface.</span><br /></span></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mWd3oWWbI/AAAAAAAACKo/Z6Nsz2ohJTY/s912/pancakes7.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mWd3oWWbI/AAAAAAAACKo/Z6Nsz2ohJTY/s912/pancakes7.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;">back to the pancakes. yum! fluffy and diner-like, indeed. and you can't go wrong when adding blueberries. they were super easy to prepare (almost as easy as a box mix) and if you're from the midwest, you already have malt powder in your pantry. i will definitely keep this recipe in my pancake arsenal. </span><span style="font-size:85%;">(we ate them so quick i didn't even get a good "stack" shot)</span>alaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845167328963366957.post-61579465084782204602010-02-17T14:18:00.003-05:002010-02-17T15:22:31.883-05:00vintage ladies<span style="font-size:85%;">i've had some requests to show the vintage pin up girls i framed in my bathroom. please note that these are NOT my designs. i have found them from sources around the web and <a href="http://www.noseart.ch/gallery.html">you can, too</a>. </span><span style="font-size:85%;">to give credit where credit is due, they are from esquire calendars designed by alberto vargas. (some nudity will be found when searching his work) i came across them in my friend's dining room, where she has an original calendar, all 12 months, hanging on her wall. i am very jealous.</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3xC3ji4y6I/AAAAAAAACLo/oR1tOCIOi60/pinup_vargas_1947_january.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 390px; height: 283px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3xC3ji4y6I/AAAAAAAACLo/oR1tOCIOi60/pinup_vargas_1947_january.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3xC3atGASI/AAAAAAAACLk/NPPFIGY6LPc/pinup_vargas_1946_june.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 190px; height: 261px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3xC3atGASI/AAAAAAAACLk/NPPFIGY6LPc/pinup_vargas_1946_june.jpg" alt="" border="0" /> </a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3xC3WMdvxI/AAAAAAAACLg/O4bPn98Mag4/pinup_vargas_1946_july.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 190px; height: 261px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3xC3WMdvxI/AAAAAAAACLg/O4bPn98Mag4/pinup_vargas_1946_july.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">here are three ladies that now hang in my bathroom. i love them! june and july from 1946 and january 1947.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">my favorite calendar as a whole is the 1945 one. i have it in 19x27, which is just large enough for the small space. i put the images together into one large poster and had it printed at kinkos. </span><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3xDuXTMqxI/AAAAAAAACLs/6RVj_6REWRs/s576/vargas1945.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 378px; height: 525px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3xDuXTMqxI/AAAAAAAACLs/6RVj_6REWRs/s576/vargas1945.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;">lots of yellow tones to match the bathroom walls, some green to tie in the curtains, and soft pastels to pull in light purple towels. plus, pretty budget friendly. it's a bathroom, after all...</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3xPhGI1K-I/AAAAAAAACMQ/g9NPkP3O-9c/s576/IMG_1877.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 141px; height: 212px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3xPhGI1K-I/AAAAAAAACMQ/g9NPkP3O-9c/s576/IMG_1877.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3xPhgMLz9I/AAAAAAAACMU/FcPRBnTHHvo/s912/IMG_1879.JPG"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 212px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3xPhgMLz9I/AAAAAAAACMU/FcPRBnTHHvo/s912/IMG_1879.JPG" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div></div></div>alaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845167328963366957.post-9951802364544005362010-02-15T20:37:00.005-05:002010-02-15T21:06:16.737-05:00quick and easy curtains<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mTRueBNjI/AAAAAAAACJw/1JdLnQsLfaw/s512/curtains5.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 298px; height: 448px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mTRueBNjI/AAAAAAAACJw/1JdLnQsLfaw/s512/curtains5.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;">super simple curtains</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;">our main bathroom in the condo is painted a buttery, slightly sunny yellow. since we didn't feel like repainting, i decided to design around the color. i put up these fantastic vintage vargas calendar prints of pin up ladies (which i fell in love with thanks to my friend amelia...you may remember we made button lollipops in the god awful heat of summer). i found a little white saucer with gold trim to match the gold fixtures in the space (also already there) to use as a hand soap dish. it's full on girly vintage (but the ladies are hot enough to keep it man friendly) and it needed some curtains.<br /><br />i knew i'd want to make my own out of some floral fabric, so i found some from <a href="http://www.amybutlerdesign.com/products/fabrics_display.php?fabric=midwest-modern-2&cid=43&flid=15">amy butler</a> and set out to make something simple for the window.</span><br /></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mTQgLw1YI/AAAAAAAACJg/jsbpoFKvDwk/s720/curtains1.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 545px; height: 363px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mTQgLw1YI/AAAAAAAACJg/jsbpoFKvDwk/s720/curtains1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;">midwest modern 2 sky fresh poppies<br /></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mTQ2q0OLI/AAAAAAAACJk/fSKdy3Vdl0c/s720/curtains2.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 190px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mTQ2q0OLI/AAAAAAAACJk/fSKdy3Vdl0c/s720/curtains2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mTRNELNTI/AAAAAAAACJo/WgD3yfROaSw/s720/curtains3.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 190px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mTRNELNTI/AAAAAAAACJo/WgD3yfROaSw/s720/curtains3.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />i bought 2 yards online from <a href="http://hawthornethreads.com/">hawthorne threads</a> and cut the piece in half vertically. i sewed the selvages and cut sides with a simple straight stitch, top to bottom, on each piece. to make a rod pocket, i sewed a large fold at the top, then made another seam about an inch above that, just large enough to allow the rod to fit. i measured for the hem and stitched the final bottom edges to finish. i used the scraps from the hem cut to create tie backs (tubes sewn, turned, and pressed).</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mTR4JkZKI/AAAAAAAACJ0/kb3_LX--pX8/s720/curtains7.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 190px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mTR4JkZKI/AAAAAAAACJ0/kb3_LX--pX8/s720/curtains7.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mTSW3vRuI/AAAAAAAACJ4/CuLZMw_DBQ4/s720/curtains8.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 285px; height: 190px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mTSW3vRuI/AAAAAAAACJ4/CuLZMw_DBQ4/s720/curtains8.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">the project took about an hour and probably would have been faster had i made any plans in advance. instead, i just started cutting and sewing until i got what i wanted. having a degree in clothing design makes you confident enough to sew a rectangle without a pattern, i guess ;)</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mTRRevuhI/AAAAAAAACJs/PFp13ICOZiE/s720/curtains6.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 410px; height: 274px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3mTRRevuhI/AAAAAAAACJs/PFp13ICOZiE/s720/curtains6.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;">i really enjoy these curtains. i like the green and the pattern, which plays nicely with our light purple towels and vintage girls on the walls. they are just feminine enough for the small space. a cheap, easy way to dress up an boring wall and textured window.</span><br /></div></div>alaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845167328963366957.post-58020706636745482332010-02-11T11:48:00.002-05:002010-02-11T12:19:30.779-05:00sausage, spinach, and ricotta stuffed shells<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3BqjxTRN5I/AAAAAAAACIk/nkkQVYZumZQ/s912/stuffed%20shells8.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 405px; height: 270px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3BqjxTRN5I/AAAAAAAACIk/nkkQVYZumZQ/s912/stuffed%20shells8.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">these photos are blegh. i'm sorry.</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;">i don't bake a lot of dinners. we don't eat very many casseroles, pasta bakes, etc., because i tend to prefer using the stove top for dinners. this might also be because i don't typically enjoy my dinner mixed into one giant pan. of course there are exception, and stuffed shells is one (right up there with lasagna).<br /><br />the other day, a craving for a warm, pasta based dish hit. not lasagna this time, but shells or rolls, or something. my search led to me to <a href="http://simplyrecipes.com/recipes/sausage_spinach_ricotta_stuffed_pasta_shells/">this</a>, and i promptly added the items i didn't already have to my grocery list.</span><br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3BqWejV_FI/AAAAAAAACIU/lwlQFQaqHRo/s912/stuffed%20shells1.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 190px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3BqWejV_FI/AAAAAAAACIU/lwlQFQaqHRo/s912/stuffed%20shells1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3BqWN6FocI/AAAAAAAACIQ/La3bXqslPlg/s912/stuffed%20shells2.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 190px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3BqWN6FocI/AAAAAAAACIQ/La3bXqslPlg/s912/stuffed%20shells2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">sausage, spinach, and ricotta stuffed shells</span> (adapted from elise at simplyrecipes.com)<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;">1 12 oz package jumbo pasta shells<br />1 tbsp olive oil<br />1 c finely chopped yellow onion<br />1 lb sweet italian sausage (i found this without casings)<br />1 tbsp minced garlic<br />1 egg<br />15 oz ricotta cheese (small tub)<br />10 oz chopped frozen spinach, thawed, squeezed dry, chopped further<br />1 c grated parmesan cheese<br />1 tsp dried basil<br />1/4 c unseasoned bread crumbs<br />1/2 tsp salt<br />1/2 tsp ground black pepper<br />3 14.5 oz cans tomatoes (herbs, celery/onions, plain, whatever), including the liquid, tomatoes broken up<br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;">9x13 and 9x9 pans (1 each)<br /><br />1. cook pasta shells according to directions, then drain, rinse in cold water, and cool.<br />2. heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat<br />3. add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes<br />4. add sausage, breaking up into smaller bits and cook until cooked through<br />5. add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds, then remove pan from heat<br />6. beat egg in a large bowl, then mix in ricotta, chopped spinach, 1/2 c parmesan, basil, bread crumbs, salt, and pepper<br />7. add slightly cooled sausage mixture<br />8. cover bottom of 9x13 and 9x9 pans with a thin layer of tomatoes and liquid<br />9. fill each cooked pasta shell with some of the ricotta, spinach, sausage mixture, then arrange shells into dishes<br />10. spread remaining tomatoes and liquid over shells<br />11. cover pans with foil and bake at 375F for 30 minutes<br />12. remove foil, cover with remaining 1/2 c parmesan and bake for 10 more minutes uncovered</span><br /></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3BqXMZs94I/AAAAAAAACIY/X4g4Td_T0ro/s912/stuffed%20shells3.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 403px; height: 270px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3BqXMZs94I/AAAAAAAACIY/X4g4Td_T0ro/s912/stuffed%20shells3.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">i had 3-4 shells left without filling when all was said and done, but i like to generously fill the pasta. the original recipe calls for two large pans, but i arranged my shells neatly in rows and was able to fit everything in one large and one small pan.</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3BqXXNHlCI/AAAAAAAACIc/2PMU4mgvwsM/s912/stuffed%20shells4.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 190px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3BqXXNHlCI/AAAAAAAACIc/2PMU4mgvwsM/s912/stuffed%20shells4.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3Bqe8kuVAI/AAAAAAAACIg/korWEbqXV_c/s912/stuffed%20shells5.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 285px; height: 190px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3Bqe8kuVAI/AAAAAAAACIg/korWEbqXV_c/s912/stuffed%20shells5.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">because we are just two people who enjoy leftovers only once after a meal is served, i froze my small pan of shells (before baking). wrapped in foil, then cling wrap, this will stay for about 4 months. i've got a plan to freeze a number of upcoming dishes before the baby arrives so i have a little less to do around the house those first few weeks.</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3BqkY1aqWI/AAAAAAAACIo/yqlvXKrbP9s/s912/stuffed%20shells6.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 405px; height: 270px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S3BqkY1aqWI/AAAAAAAACIo/yqlvXKrbP9s/s912/stuffed%20shells6.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">sorry about the pink/warm plate</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;">this was perfect comfort food. i wasn't sure about the canned tomatoes (rather than sauce), but it was much lighter than typical baked pastas and i enjoyed that. just enough cheese to satisfy and excellent flavors in the filling. i'm looking forward to having my next batch in just a few weeks!</span><br /></div></div>alaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845167328963366957.post-75833154021953373092010-02-05T16:54:00.004-05:002010-02-05T16:56:56.052-05:00it's february?!<span style="font-size:85%;">how did this happen? oh, it happened while i was busy working on the nursery and a variety of projects for the house. i believe they call this "nesting". it leaves little time for blogging with pictures and stories of food and crafts. of course, right when i almost hit a stride!<br /><br />i've got a few things ready for next week, though. i'm out of town at a baby shower this weekend, so check back on monday!</span>alaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845167328963366957.post-136218893104546302010-01-22T12:35:00.001-05:002010-01-22T23:51:40.430-05:00grapefruit and pomegranate in white tea jelly<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol6_SzAzI/AAAAAAAACEU/CqY5feX1r1U/s800/white%20tea%20jelly6.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 420px; height: 279px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol6_SzAzI/AAAAAAAACEU/CqY5feX1r1U/s800/white%20tea%20jelly6.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;">i have loved the blog <a href="http://www.mytartelette.com/">tartelette</a> for a long time. she makes gorgeous food and takes insanely beautiful photos. when i see her blog, and others of her caliber, i know that my little old thing is just for fun and that i have years of practice (and possibly some schooling and maybe some time, like a childhood's worth, in france...) before i reach that level of either of her talents.<br /><br />that being said, for as much admiring as i do, i've never once tried a recipe. many because i just don't want to be let down when mine doesn't come out looking like hers. many others because i would be 200 pounds bigger (she posts a lot of delicious desserts and i don't have many people around me with which to share...).<br /><br />so this white tea jelly appealed to me. it's easy to make with very few steps and i happened to have all ingredients on hand when i read the post.<br /></span></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol5rK1whI/AAAAAAAACEE/NE8jPeaVmDg/s800/white%20tea%20jelly1.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 285px; height: 190px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol5rK1whI/AAAAAAAACEE/NE8jPeaVmDg/s800/white%20tea%20jelly1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol55Egf9I/AAAAAAAACEI/HjQEjyt4SmI/s800/white%20tea%20jelly3.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 285px; height: 190px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol55Egf9I/AAAAAAAACEI/HjQEjyt4SmI/s800/white%20tea%20jelly3.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol6O6zH5I/AAAAAAAACEM/kpW5U82NB40/s800/white%20tea%20jelly2.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 190px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol6O6zH5I/AAAAAAAACEM/kpW5U82NB40/s800/white%20tea%20jelly2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol6ivQjSI/AAAAAAAACEQ/1FRQ8YbYX9U/s800/white%20tea%20jelly4.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 285px; height: 190px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol6ivQjSI/AAAAAAAACEQ/1FRQ8YbYX9U/s800/white%20tea%20jelly4.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">for the recipe, here is the <a href="http://www.mytartelette.com/2009/11/recipe-grapefruit-and-pomegranate-in.html">direct link</a>. i had less grapefruit than she used, but i think the fruit part is a general idea rather than specific amounts. i just layered as much as i had into the little white bowls (more than the picture on the bottom left shows).</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol7LRJSaI/AAAAAAAACEY/tlpWqAFg6Wk/s800/white%20tea%20jelly5.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 420px; height: 279px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol7LRJSaI/AAAAAAAACEY/tlpWqAFg6Wk/s800/white%20tea%20jelly5.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />this was so refreshing. a perfect, light dessert that i enjoyed at midnight the day i made it. it was so good, in fact, that i made it again while i was home for christmas. my family was pleasantly surprised by this grown-up version of "fruit and jello salad".<br /><br />and speaking of jello "salad", stay tuned. i have more gelatin up my sleeve...though the next one uses j-e-l-l-o right from the box ;)</span>alaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845167328963366957.post-3450707629528925992010-01-20T21:56:00.003-05:002010-01-20T22:39:15.382-05:00salmon with cucumber salad and dill sauce<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S1fCDwo9tBI/AAAAAAAACGM/vUCJ8Y40uSc/s800/cucumber%20salmon1.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 401px; height: 267px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S1fCDwo9tBI/AAAAAAAACGM/vUCJ8Y40uSc/s800/cucumber%20salmon1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /><br /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;">my palate has been a bit limited during pregnancy. i haven't really been into chicken lately and i can't stand most asian foods with sweet/sour/spicy sauces. in fact, i pretty much only want beef. but i can't have that everyday, so i've been on a mission to find new recipes to mix into my meal planning that don't include chicken (thats hard to do, you know). i also try to find a few healthy options, as i'm on no diet and eat treats far too often. fish usually seems to come to mind and husband loves it. we've had scallops and salmon and shrimp (no, not all fish) in the past week or so and this recipe topped the pack.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">salmon with cucumber salad and dill sauce</span> (adapted from cooking light august 2007)<br /> 3 tbsp fat-free sour cream<br /> 1 tbsp plus 1 tsp finely chopped fresh dill, divided<br /> 2 tbsp rice vinegar, divided<br /> 3/4 tbsp finely chopped shallots<br /> 1/4 tsp grated lemon rind<br /> 1 tsp fresh lemon juice<br /> 1 garlic clove, minced<br /> 1-2 (6-ounce) salmon fillets<br />salt and pepper<br />1/4 cc dry white wine<br /> 1 english cucumber<br /><br />1. combine sour cream, 1 tbsp dill, 1 tbsp vinegar, shallots, rind, juice, and garlic in a bowl, stirring well; cover and chill<br />2. season fish with salt and pepper<br />3. heat a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat and add fish to pan, cooking for 3 minutes<br />4. turn fish and cook 1 additional minute<br />5. remove from heat, add wine, and cover<br />6. let stand for 3 minutes or until desired doneness<br />7. using a vegetable peeler, shave cucumber lengthwise into ribbons<br />8. combine cucumber, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1 tsp dill in a bowl; toss gently<br />9. to serve, place cucumber mixture on plates and top with fish and dill sauce<br /></span></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S1fCDmb6EoI/AAAAAAAACGI/mJuEpAI-0n4/s800/cucumber%20salmon2.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S1fCDmb6EoI/AAAAAAAACGI/mJuEpAI-0n4/s800/cucumber%20salmon2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">mm, so tasty! it's very summery and fresh. i love the tangy dill sauce (dill and salmon are a match made in heaven and i really don't eat the fish without it) and the crunchy cucumber salad. i didn't even take pictures of the process because it's so fast and easy there just wasn't time between start to finish (eating).<br /><br />i don't have new year's resolutions this year, but if healthy eating is one of yours, try this easy dinner. or, if you already ate a bag of candy by yourself and you'd like to level the playing field (salads cancel out sweet calories, fyi), this is a great option. </span>alaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845167328963366957.post-76090258091421701552010-01-13T23:30:00.002-05:002010-01-14T13:55:01.401-05:00oatmeal cinnamon chip cookies<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol4nR1g7I/AAAAAAAACDw/8rPzzDYTjUE/s800/cin%20chip%20cookies5.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 368px; height: 245px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol4nR1g7I/AAAAAAAACDw/8rPzzDYTjUE/s800/cin%20chip%20cookies5.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol45y9qgI/AAAAAAAACD0/PJDe39R9vXU/s576/cin%20chip%20cookies6.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 164px; height: 245px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol45y9qgI/AAAAAAAACD0/PJDe39R9vXU/s576/cin%20chip%20cookies6.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;">i've been searching for these elusive hershey's cinnamon chips for nearly 6 months. i never found any in pittsburgh and i hadn't found any in evanston (3 chain stores checked). but i went to appleton, wi for thanksgiving and wouldn't you know it, a random grocery store had more cinnamon chips than i could ever use. i bought two bags (and not on sale) and practically peed my pants in excitement.<br /><br />if you haven't heard of them, please go out, find them, and put them in your cart. they aren't spicy cinnamon, more like cinnamon white chocolate, but also not like white chocolate. if you can't find the hershey's brand, i did see that king arthur flower sells <a href="http://www.kingarthurflour.com/shop/items/cinnamon-mini-baking-chips-16-oz">mini cinnamon chips</a> - i can't vouch for them, but it might be worth a try. and hello, they have cappuccino baking chips there, too. </span><br /></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol3c9vhaI/AAAAAAAACDk/D2uXqHsOMl8/s800/cin%20chip%20cookies2.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 186px; height: 128px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol3c9vhaI/AAAAAAAACDk/D2uXqHsOMl8/s800/cin%20chip%20cookies2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol3zRV6UI/AAAAAAAACDo/USHc_9-B1pg/s800/cin%20chip%20cookies3.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 193px; height: 128px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol3zRV6UI/AAAAAAAACDo/USHc_9-B1pg/s800/cin%20chip%20cookies3.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol3c9vhaI/AAAAAAAACDk/D2uXqHsOMl8/s800/cin%20chip%20cookies2.jpg"> </a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol4C9uGVI/AAAAAAAACDs/7iDLtz8RGEE/s800/cin%20chip%20cookies4.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 192px; height: 128px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol4C9uGVI/AAAAAAAACDs/7iDLtz8RGEE/s800/cin%20chip%20cookies4.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />i made the cookies from the back of the hershey's bag. i'll include it here in case you get the online kind and don't have access to this basic recipe.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">oatmeal cinnamon chip cookies</span> (hershey's)<br />1 c butter, softened (2 sticks)<br />1 c packed light brown sugar<br />1/3 c sugar<br />2 eggs<br />1 1/2 tsp vanilla<br />1 1/2 c flour<br />1 tsp baking soda<br />2 1/2 c quick cook oats<br />1 2/3 c cinnamon chips<br />3/4 c raisins (i had, like, 13 raisins and threw them in - more would be better, but they are fine without)</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />1. beat butter, brown sugar, and sugar until creamy<br />2. add eggs and vanilla and combine<br />3. add flour and baking soda to butter mixture, beating well<br />4. stir in oats, chips, and raisins<br />5. drop spoonfuls of batter onto cookie sheet (i used a small cookie scoop), a few inches apart<br />6. bake at 350F for 10-12 minutes, until lightly browned<br />7. cool 1 minutes, transfer from cookie sheet to wire rack<br />8. eat 4 dozen</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol5F9OMXI/AAAAAAAACD4/8XE6tZiINd4/s576/cin%20chip%20cookies7.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 164px; height: 245px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol5F9OMXI/AAAAAAAACD4/8XE6tZiINd4/s576/cin%20chip%20cookies7.jpg" alt="" border="0" /> </a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol5as8NJI/AAAAAAAACEA/hZZffOsytbU/s800/cin%20chip%20cookies8.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 368px; height: 245px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol5as8NJI/AAAAAAAACEA/hZZffOsytbU/s800/cin%20chip%20cookies8.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">seeeriously. cinnamon chips in oatmeal raisin cookies are amazing. i am pretty sure i had 4 right out of the oven. at once. husband shared with his coworkers and they also raved about them. people like cinnamon chips! you hear that, dominick's...jewel-osco? stock the chips!!</span>alaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845167328963366957.post-85985858391708491452010-01-11T17:00:00.003-05:002010-01-11T17:00:00.573-05:00flower hair clips<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ozTtJu_nI/AAAAAAAACFc/PobWxFzzmNA/s800/flower%20hair%20pin3.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 405px; height: 270px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ozTtJu_nI/AAAAAAAACFc/PobWxFzzmNA/s800/flower%20hair%20pin3.jpg" alt="" border="0" /> </a><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />while browsing a few stores recently, my friend kristin and i spotted some adorable flower pouf headbands and hair clips. upon checking the price tag, something like $12 for adult version and $8 for the childrens', we decided it was a no go. i told her i'd make some for a fraction of the price. i know you can find these at teen stores for less, but why not just try your hand at it?<br /><br />supplies:<br />pack of clips (i found 12 for $2 at walmart)<br />tulle (1/4 yd for about $1 at joann's)<br />needle and embroidery thread<br />hot glue or super glue<br />flower shapes (free hand or use my templates - after directions)<br /><br />(sorry i don't have pictures to demonstrate)<br /><br />1. fold tulle repeatedly in half until it is about 3 inches wide (like making paper dolls)<br />2. cut to create a stack of 3x3" squares, connected at folds<br />3. pin in place and cut out a flower shape through all layers of tulle<br />4. knot thread and sew a few stitches through center of flower, connecting layers<br />5. bunch flower tips in hand and randomly sew through layers (near center stitches) to create a more 3d shape<br />6. tie off thread and cut<br />7. place paper or card stock between hair clip and add a dab of glue to hinged end<br />8. affix flower to clip at underside stitches, arranging petals to create a uniform pouf</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">9. allow to dry, then remove paper from clip (tearing off any pieces glued to metal)</span><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0pAdcysGfI/AAAAAAAACFk/Qg4oofb_FN4/pointy-flower.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 229px; height: 224px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0pAdcysGfI/AAAAAAAACFk/Qg4oofb_FN4/pointy-flower.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0pAdfo7TqI/AAAAAAAACFo/H4nF0Dds2Uc/round-flower.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 216px; height: 216px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0pAdfo7TqI/AAAAAAAACFo/H4nF0Dds2Uc/round-flower.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />the directions make it sound confusing, but i promise i made four of these in about 30 minutes once i figured out the first one. </span><span style="font-size:85%;">i free handed my flowers as i cut, so each one i made was individual, but using the template takes any guess work out of the process.<br /><br />in the first photo, you can see i added a small pearl to the center of the flower. you could try other beads of findings in the center, especially if you need to hide stitches (mine matched the purple and brown tulle i used). i imagine drawing a thin line in glitter on the edges of some of the petals would also be cute (though, your hair would be covered in sparkles). layering more tulle or a variety of colors could also change the look. imagine the possibilities!</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ozTHLu9GI/AAAAAAAACFY/EtYXiFiy9k8/s576/flower%20hair%20pin1.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 164px; height: 245px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ozTHLu9GI/AAAAAAAACFY/EtYXiFiy9k8/s576/flower%20hair%20pin1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ozSwyETyI/AAAAAAAACFU/q7yARjxrgFU/s800/flower%20hair%20pin2.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 368px; height: 245px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ozSwyETyI/AAAAAAAACFU/q7yARjxrgFU/s800/flower%20hair%20pin2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /> </a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;">here's me modeling a brown round flower clip. small enough to wear during the day, but pretty enough to dress up with, too. i liked these so much i gave one each to kristin and my sisters for christmas, just for fun.</span><br /></div></div>alaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845167328963366957.post-22600072427459131972010-01-10T14:13:00.004-05:002010-01-10T17:01:17.575-05:00peppermint meringues<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol8wY8zBI/AAAAAAAACEs/mimIMsKtTC0/s576/peppermint%20meringues6.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 165px; height: 245px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol8wY8zBI/AAAAAAAACEs/mimIMsKtTC0/s576/peppermint%20meringues6.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol9UBbLHI/AAAAAAAACEw/2VnIxOVXx88/s800/peppermint%20meringues5.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 371px; height: 245px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol9UBbLHI/AAAAAAAACEw/2VnIxOVXx88/s800/peppermint%20meringues5.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />happy new year! it's not too late to blog about peppermint things, right? still winter...at least it is here.<br /><br />and speaking of here, i'm in my new place! after a move at 28 weeks pregnant, across town, i live in my "home" for now, a condo on lake michigan. and after a week without internet, i am connected again and can resume blogging. for once, i've got posts ready to go and am starting the new year fresh. my biggest change, besides actually blogging on a regular basis, is no more rounded corners. did you notice? it just takes too much time to edit every photo and then go in and do the 5 step process of rounding the corners on each one. i have had so many people email me about them so i felt like i had to keep doing it, but it got to be too much...and isn't this interesting? this topic of rounded or square corners? more so than meringues? no.</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol7XmX7PI/AAAAAAAACEc/o7xXnau3UNk/s800/peppermint%20meringues1.jpg"> </a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol71ZwIZI/AAAAAAAACEg/gKRu5Wm3yJ8/s800/peppermint%20meringues2.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 285px; height: 190px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol71ZwIZI/AAAAAAAACEg/gKRu5Wm3yJ8/s800/peppermint%20meringues2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol8XvOBZI/AAAAAAAACEk/Za5hB2BI8Qw/s800/peppermint%20meringues3.jpg"> <img style="cursor: pointer; width: 286px; height: 190px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol8XvOBZI/AAAAAAAACEk/Za5hB2BI8Qw/s800/peppermint%20meringues3.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">i love meringues and i make them every december. i wanted peppermint this year and found this <a href="http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Peppermint-Meringues/Detail.aspx">simple recipe</a> to try out.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">peppermint meringues</span> (slightly adapted from allrecipes.com)<br /> 2 egg whites<br /> 1/8 tsp salt<br /> 1/8 tsp cream of tartar<br /> 1/2 c white sugar<br /> 2 peppermint candy canes, crushed<br /><br />1. <span>preheat oven to 225F and line 2 cookie sheets with foil </span><br /><span> 2. in a glass or metal mixing bowl, beat egg whites, salt, and cream of tartar to soft peaks<br />3. gradually add sugar, continuing to beat until whites form stiff peaks<br />4. fold in crushed candy canes<br />5. fill a piping bag (or ziplock bag) with mixture and pipe 3-swirl dollops 1 inch apart onto cookie sheets </span><br />6.</span><span><span style="font-size:85%;"> bake for 1 1/2 hours, until meringues are completely dry on the inside<br />*do not allow them to brown*<br />7. turn off oven, keep door ajar, and let meringues sit in the oven until completely cool</span><br /></span><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol8vPxAII/AAAAAAAACEo/bxXisALbyZA/s800/peppermint%20meringues4.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/S0ol8vPxAII/AAAAAAAACEo/bxXisALbyZA/s800/peppermint%20meringues4.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">yum! these were just as i had hoped. crunchy, light, and airy and full of peppermint flavor. you do need to make sure they are completely cooked, so test one (by peeling it off the foil and checking the under/inside) before shutting off the heat. they'll continue to dry out in the cooling oven, but sometimes the insides stay sticky and you don't want that.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">husband brought some of these into work and it seems his coworkers enjoyed them. many had not had meringues before, so it's nice to introduce new foods to people. </span>alaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845167328963366957.post-43188105099493582522009-12-24T10:00:00.000-05:002009-12-24T10:00:03.927-05:00happy holidays!<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/Sy7VbpuB-eI/AAAAAAAACB0/PE9h8dCFy1g/s512/IMG_0651.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 341px; height: 512px;" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/Sy7VbpuB-eI/AAAAAAAACB0/PE9h8dCFy1g/s512/IMG_0651.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;">one project of recent was my holiday cards, which i've been making for a few years now. this year i wanted to gocco again and while i was interested in a multi-color, possible multi-screen design...i decided against it because i like simple and i don't want to waste precious, limited supplies.</span><br /></div></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/Sy7VdAFBFQI/AAAAAAAACB4/URWTASy10KQ/s512/IMG_0654.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 227px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/Sy7VdAFBFQI/AAAAAAAACB4/URWTASy10KQ/s512/IMG_0654.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/Sy7VfMtyajI/AAAAAAAACB8/3fmvB2nd5Rw/s720/IMG_0660.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 339px; height: 225px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/Sy7VfMtyajI/AAAAAAAACB8/3fmvB2nd5Rw/s720/IMG_0660.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">outside and inside (sorry for the shallow depth of field)</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;">i created this tree and hanging ornaments design in illustrator using basic shapes and some intricate snowflake cutouts (from my favorite snowflake website, <a href="http://snowflakes.barkleyus.com/">make-a-flake</a>). i flashed the front screen and made a separate inside greeting screen (i made the most of this screen by flashing a few additional design, soon to come). i printed with white ink on moss <a href="http://www.paper-source.com/cgi-bin/paper/color/A6-folded-cards/2505.030/302.html">folded A6 cards</a> and sent them in glass <a href="http://www.paper-source.com/cgi-bin/paper/color/A6-envelopes/2506.001/104.html">luxe envelopes</a>.</span><br /></div></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/Sy7Vh9XipPI/AAAAAAAACCE/Ahxh1cwZIFI/s720/IMG_0672.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 407px; height: 271px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/Sy7Vh9XipPI/AAAAAAAACCE/Ahxh1cwZIFI/s720/IMG_0672.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">raised print</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;">the color is off in the above photo, but i just had to show off the embossing i did on a few of them. i learned this quick trick from my friend kim: dust super fine, clear embossing powder to the wet gocco ink, tap it off, and heat using an embossing gun. the design will emboss, slightly raised and shiny, and looks so adorable.</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><br />unfortunately, these prints were not without some hiccups. for whatever reason, my screen was missing some print areas in the tree and a number of the prints had blank areas. i still got about 50 good prints and was able to send all of my holiday cards to family and friends. i sincerely hope i didn't miss anyone!<br /><br />happy holidays, season's greetings, merry chirstmas 2009. enjoy this lovely time of year!</span><br /></div></div>alaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845167328963366957.post-30292351080360054422009-12-22T09:49:00.002-05:002009-12-22T11:56:36.789-05:00shaped bokeh<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/Sy7XRVOI8sI/AAAAAAAACCk/nvYf9H86uRM/s720/IMG_0623.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 415px; height: 276px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/Sy7XRVOI8sI/AAAAAAAACCk/nvYf9H86uRM/s720/IMG_0623.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;">i was on a photography board and came across a link with a unique way of manipulating bokeh (the blurry, often background, parts of a photo). here is the <a href="http://www.diyphotography.net/diy_create_your_own_bokeh">tutorial</a>.<br /><br />after seeing the instructions, i decided to whip up a lens hood and see if it would work. i chose a 1 inch gingerbread man hole punch and made a hood out of black construction paper to fit over my 50 mm 1.8 lens. it took me a bit to figure out how to shoot with it on, but i aimed it at my christmas tree and tested the technique. as long as the subject appears blurry in the viewfinder, the bokeh will work. the lights look like little gingerbread men!<br /><br />i'd show you a picture of my lens hood but it is one shoddy piece of work. instead, check out my sample images and those in the link. i'm sure there a few random uses for something like this. either way, i found it interesting and am still a bit confused as to how it works.</span><br /></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/Sy7XQmKGegI/AAAAAAAACCg/gKUqlXbHvCA/s720/gingerbreadmen.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 401px; height: 267px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/Sy7XQmKGegI/AAAAAAAACCg/gKUqlXbHvCA/s720/gingerbreadmen.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div>alaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5845167328963366957.post-35964788457711657282009-12-20T21:22:00.004-05:002009-12-20T21:49:09.351-05:00pork chops and apple slaw<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/Sy7VY7jLFAI/AAAAAAAACBs/rPZxbhm95KM/s720/IMG_0691.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 415px; height: 276px;" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/Sy7VY7jLFAI/AAAAAAAACBs/rPZxbhm95KM/s720/IMG_0691.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">i know, i've been away. i just haven't had it in me to blog. i make dinner almost every night, but the idea of blogging, with the pictures and editing and writing...i don't know. maybe a new year's resolution for me will be to find something that works for me and blogging. it might help now that we have somewhere to live in january (not a house, but a condo for a year) and that i can focus on the baby and all of the things that are soon to change my life.<br /><br />but before all of that, there are basics. like simple, good food. that's what i try to make everyday to balance some of the pregnancy cravings and indulgences. this pork chop and slaw recipe is perfect. i've never liked applesauce on my chops, but this is a nice, fresh variation of apples and pork.</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/Sy7VVu2Cj2I/AAAAAAAACBg/c7ikQPixSPQ/s720/IMG_0675.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 186px; height: 130px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/Sy7VVu2Cj2I/AAAAAAAACBg/c7ikQPixSPQ/s720/IMG_0675.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/Sy7VWw56EhI/AAAAAAAACBk/8HLav5zCSC8/s720/IMG_0678.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 195px; height: 130px;" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/Sy7VWw56EhI/AAAAAAAACBk/8HLav5zCSC8/s720/IMG_0678.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/Sy7VX2iFfiI/AAAAAAAACBo/4a0QnETu-gA/s720/IMG_0686.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 196px; height: 130px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/Sy7VX2iFfiI/AAAAAAAACBo/4a0QnETu-gA/s720/IMG_0686.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">pork chops with honey-mustard sauce and apple slaw</span> (adapted from rachelraymag.com)<br />1 green apple, sliced into matchsticks <br /> juice of 1/2 lemon <br /> 4 c shredded red cabbage<br /> 4 scallions, thinly sliced on an angle <br /> 4 boneless pork loin chops, pounded 1 inch thick<br /> 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil<br /> 1 c chicken stock <br /> 1/4 c whole grain mustard <br /> 1/4 c honey <br /> 2 tbsp cider vinegar or white wine vinegar <br /> salt and pepper<br /><br />1. toss the apple with the lemon juice, then add cabbage and scallions<br />2. in a large nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat<br />3. season the pork chops with salt and pepper and add to pan<br />4. cook, turning once, until browned, about 8 minutes<br />5. remove from pan and allow to rest<br />6. add chicken stock, mustard, honey, and vinegar to the skillet and bring to a boil<br />7. cook until reduced, about 1 minute; season with salt and pepper<br />8. place a pork chop atop some slaw and pour on sauce</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/Sy7VaGf4h-I/AAAAAAAACBw/kOXK0Ep4W-s/s720/IMG_0699.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 405px; height: 270px;" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_WxtDT20ldEw/Sy7VaGf4h-I/AAAAAAAACBw/kOXK0Ep4W-s/s720/IMG_0699.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">yum! the slaw was tangy and crisp, the pork perfectly cooked, and the sauce sweet and mustard filled. it was a hit with both husband and me and i imagine this would be nice to serve at a throw-together dinner party. it's got great color for a winter meal and was a nice break to all the beef i've been consuming.</span>alaunahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02346422768621632920noreply@blogger.com0