ReadThisAndTellMeWhatItSays

I'm Moving!!!

2010-01-16T08:30:00.002-06:00

Well, I am not actually moving but my blog is. I have dreamed of learning how to program my own site that would give me freedom to blog, write, display art, and connect with other creative people. I have researched html, Wordpress, Typepage, etc. Finally, I have done it. I have a fully functioning blog and I plan to add more to the site each month in 2010, so I hope you will join me. You can find me and my antics at:

Drum Roll Please.......

www.readandtellme.com

Enjoy and thanks for you loyal support!

Ummmmmmm! A Yummy Lifestyle Change

2010-01-13T13:40:00.003-06:00

Turkey wrap with lettuce and low-fat wasabi mayo = 250 calories
Harvest Chicken Chowder = 340 Calories

Welcoming In 2010!

2010-01-13T13:28:00.003-06:00

Something Painted, Something Knit,
Something Written.....Time to Sit

I have been thinking a lot about my goals/priorities for 2010. I am not huge on "resolutions". However, I do think every year what I want to achieve. Here are a few of my thoughts:

Be less self-deprecating
Create More
Yell Less and Cry More
Enjoy Life
Cook and Eat more healthfully
Work Out
Take more pictures
Work on my photography
Develop a website
Create a Peaceful environment for my children

So, I have taken the first few days of this new year to think about how to make this a simple statement. This is what I came up with, "Something Painted, Something Knit, Something Written.....Time to Sit."
Each month I want to do at least one painting, one thing knitted, one thing written and plenty of time to just sit and enjoy my children. As far as the work out/eat healthier, etc.....I have implemented a new "lifestyle change" to get myself in the physical condition I want to be in for my sisters wedding, my 10th anniversary, and just life in general. I will be featuring a little of the recipes and workout plans on my blog too.

So, faithful readers, sit back....enjoy life....and tell me what IT says to you!

How is your mom doing?

2010-01-12T10:37:00.002-06:00

I was asked today, "How is your mom doing?"

I smiled and said, "she died." What kind of answer is that? The kind that makes me think my heart has shriveled up and died with my mother. Maybe it froze in the past ice storm. I don't know, but it surprised me!

Then, to make it worse, I giggled. Not the "funny joke" giggle, but the "someone just pulled off my swimsuit bottoms" giggle. That makes a little more sense to me. It is embarrassing. Why couldn't my mom have developed cancer from her drinking like Patrick Swayze or overdose like many others? Instead she slowly killed herself one little drink at a time. I am dreading the question that I know is coming as this year progresses, "How did your mom die?" I have been saying "she was sick for a while". I guess that is true, but it feels like I am hiding from the complete truth.

I have not been to an Al Anon meeting since a year or so before she died. I feel like that is not really the place for me. Those people have alcoholics in their life that are still alive. Do they really want to hear my story of how my mom died, nothing worked, she gave up?

I went to a grieving class at my church....that did not go very well. I did not get to tell my mom goodbye or spend days with family thinking of all the good times we had. I spent the days after her death dealing with the medical examiner, cleaning out her filthy apartment and trying to keep her car from being repossessed. There was a little "thinking about the good times", but it was tainted with the underlying anger and frustration we all felt toward one another for "not doing enough"...."not saving her".

I wish I knew one other person who lost a parent to plain, simple alcoholism. I want to know them and I want them to know me. It feels like a very lonely existence.

Recently, I was at the grocery store buying some cleaning supplies and snacks. I asked that they put it all in one bag. (I forgot my reusable bags, so I only wanted one plastic bag.)

The man replied, "I just didn't want to mix the food and chemicals."

I said, with very little thought, "Oh, we all die eventually."

"Do you consider yourself as a realist or a pessimist?" he asked.

"A realist," I replied, "but good question."

I guess that is where I am right now. I am very optimistic about 2010 and the future with my family, my art, and life in general. But, this is my path. I have to face the difficult questions that have come up over the past year or ten.

Naughty is the New Nice

2010-01-04T16:01:00.004-06:00

Here is a little look at our Christmas card from this year. I love Christmas cards, but I am ALWAYS a little late getting them out. So, I have gone to the generic holiday card just in case. I do think everyone received their cards BEFORE Christmas.

I try to do something creative that reflects our past year. Well.....2009 was the year of two 3 year old's....Adam from Jan-July and Nate from December 14th and on. This WILL NEVER happen again. Thank goodness! I tell you three year old boys are a challenge. Now, I can just sit back and wait until my friends with girls have prepubescent daughters....then, maybe they will begin understand the sass! (Now if I can just survive until Nate is 4!) That is my resolution for this year...survive three!

I love this face!

2009-12-31T14:01:00.002-06:00

Preparing for Christmas

2009-12-22T22:15:00.004-06:00

I really want to teach my children to be good stewards of their things and that we don't need six of everything to function. :) This has been much more difficult than I ever thought it would be. I believe that play is how kids learn and I want my kids to have toys that teach...not just entertain.

I spent a few days playing with the boys trying to evaluate what needed to happen. I realized that we had so much stuff they couldn't maintain the room themselves. We were missing pieces to at least half of our favorite toys.....which I did end up finding. The boys were not all that innovative with their play...i.e. The Little One just liked dumping out all of the toys looking for missing pieces. He was doing this last week and I ran over to him after he dumped over six baskets and pushed every toy off the window ledge.....I said, "WHAT ARE YOU DOING?"

His response, "looking for my friend Nemo!" and he held up a little orange fish.

So, I sat some parameters for the BIG CLEAN.

Keep
1. Does the toy have all the parts?
2. Is it something that develops an age appropriate skill?
3. Is it something they love or the giver had special meaning?

Give Away
1. Are most of the parts there?
2. Is it something others would enjoy?
3. Is it a toy that I would approve of in a childcare area my children attend?

If the answer was yes we kept it or gave it away accordingly.

Before I do not buy the boys toys for anything other than birthday and Christmas, but this is where our playroom was last week. Note: I pick it up everyday and this is really not even "that bad". I have seen worse, much worse.

Before

During (I filled six tubs of give away toys).

After

What I learned:

1. We have done a pretty good job keeping pieces together. I only had to throw away a small bag of toys that were too broken or too few pieces.
2. The boys can pick up their own playroom if it is not too overwhelming.
3. They get along better when the toys are organized in a way that encourages cooperation and learning.
4. They have not noticed anything missing!!!!

Where did the toys go?
1. To a local community group that allows kids that participate to bring can goods in exchange for Christmas gifts to give their parents and siblings.
2. My sisters daycare that is in need of some fresh toys.

Other ideas:
Infant Crisis Services
Local Church Nurseries
YMCA/YWCA Programs

I almost forgot....

2009-12-21T15:22:00.004-06:00

Here are some pictures from the cookies and punch after Big Boy's Christmas Program. Precious!

Our Baby is THREE

2009-12-14T07:59:00.002-06:00

Happy Birthday Little Nate!

picture of ME, Monday

2009-12-07T20:44:00.004-06:00

I bet you think I forgot! I didn't, I am just now sitting down for the day. This has been a Monday for sure. Ironically, my sister in law wrote a little about her distaste of pictures of her last week too. I guess I am not alone. Well, I said if you sent me pictures I would show them. So here we go!This one is from my aunt Cindy. It is a sweet picture although the uncropped version is a little risque for this blog. This is a picture of me and my parents my first Christmas. My uncle (mom's oldest brother) sent it to me.....along with some others that will make an appearance at some point. I think my mom looks beautiful in this picture. Dad isn't too shabby either.

Here is a picture off my camera from the past week!

Me, Mary, and Tracy at Mary's fabulous engagement party!

The Cobbler's Children -- A Christmas Lament

2009-12-03T13:34:00.003-06:00

This has been a week of deep thought and contemplation. I have laid awake, more than once, thinking about what I am supposed to be doing with this very valuable time of staying home with my young children. I am not one to sit back and just relish the moments as they happen, although I wish I had a little more of this in me. However, I do realize on a daily basis that each moment with my children at this formative age is so important and PRICELESS. (Even the moment yesterday when the youngest batted the glass ball ornament across the church bookstore in front of a good dozen people.)

I have filled my time with some blogging, painting, knitting, and playing with the boys. But, a good chunk of my time has been spent serving on some mission oriented boards, and doing church work. This week was frustrating to say the least. I realized that I had spent hours of time cutting out ornaments that went unused and the board that I sit on has canceled a program (well, not just any program, but my first baby....Project Transformation) for one of two reasons....perhaps both.
1. They can't find anyone to commit to be the Site Coordinator
2. They don't feel like PT understands their African American culture

What is particularly upsetting to me about both of these situations is the lack of cooperative work at the detriment to people in our community who really need the services and ministry offered by each group. Communication is hard. It is hard for everyone, but for some reason it seems particularly challenging when we deal with social and spiritual matters. I guess people are just too afraid they are going to hurt someone's feelings. Well, my feelings have been hurt. I am at a point in my life where my time is my most valuable commodity and it is being misused.

Fast forward to this morning. I am working out, listening to the CMP and the following quote comes up in her opening monologue.

"The cobbler's children have no shoes."

I have been so busy working on these projects/causes and losing sleep thinking about the children that will not have the literacy program their parents have come to count on that I didn't realize all of the time I was taking from my own children. It has been months since we went to the library, weeks since we went to the zoo, and days since I last sat down just to read a book outside of bedtime.

So, where am I now. I am not rethinking my participation in these groups, but I am realigning my priorities. I am going to spend the next few weeks thinking about how I can help facilitate better communication and a mutual understanding with the groups that I am currently working with...starting with helping people understand that when I am not with my children my time is precious and it will be respected or they will need to find someone else to do what they need.

I also have some big ideas about how to use the skills and interest I have developed with blogging and podcasting. I think it is going to involve some revamping an old site. Stay tuned. Now.....off to pick up my wild little men.

Blessings and thanks for listening to me ramble.

TURKEY Crafting

2009-12-01T08:51:00.003-06:00

The last two years my sisters and our children have gotten together Thanksgiving morning to eat breakfast, watch the Macy's Day Parade and do a little craft. Last year we did Turkey Hats with paper feathers. This year we made Turkey Sculptures. I got the idea from one of my friend's blogs, Laugh, Paint, Create. The boys loved it, but I think my sister enjoyed it just as much. I am really going to miss these crazy days when my boys are older and might even sleep through the parade like I used to do. What was I thinking?

Nate hard at work.

The oldest one concentrating!

Aunt 'Chelle helping a nephew.

Aunt Tracy helping out too.

Ummmmmm! Pumpkin Bread Pudding.

Pictures of Me

2009-11-30T08:12:00.003-06:00

I have a HUGE phobia of pictures of myself. This might seem a little crazy with all of the pictures I take, but I think it is probably the reason I always find myself behind the camera. I have noticed the increasing lack of photos of myself since I had the babies. I have always been a little shy with pictures, but now I all out hide.

This camera fear might have something to do with the dream of that first picture holding my baby.....it was crushed when I went through three rounds of epidural and gallons of saline to have my first child at 9 pounds 10 ounces. The picture......well, there was not enough room in the room to back up enough to capture my entire face. It was the size of a city block. I nearly died when I saw it for the first time.

This "little issue" came up again when I received a phone call from my mother in law asking for me to send her a picture of myself. In all the pictures taken at the hubby's grandmother's 80th birthday, there was not one of me. I pretended to be surprised, but I am certain there were at least three or four. Where are they now? Deleted.....Bad Hair Day!

So, here is my attempt to break my fear of photos. I will post pictures of me right here on this blog every Monday. Not to be vain, but in attempt to get over this crazy issue with looking at myself. Why? Because I don't want to look back and miss pictures like this with me and my children. Plus, when I look at pictures of myself more than a year old, I usually think they are pretty good.

Challenge to my readers: If you have or take a picture of me, send it this way and I will be sure to post it.

Blessings!!!

Christmas is UP

2009-11-29T22:29:00.002-06:00

Thanksgiving CAMEand WENT.
Then it was time to bust out the Christmas decs......
Now, they are up and.....
we even have lights on the house. I know, it is not much but for us, Nov. 29th. It is a Christmas Miracle!

A Little Holiday "Fist Bump"

2009-11-23T07:59:00.004-06:00

I know that the holidays will be difficult this year without my mom, but with so much to be thankful for, it is sure to be a great season in spite of all of life's challenges. Yesterday, as I sat in church, I was thinking about some of the stresses of the holidays, when I began to listen to the sermon about being thankful. It was in that moment that I realized that God had prepared me for this very holiday season over the last few years with a couple of "little fist bumps."

It was Thanksgiving Day, 2004 when we found out we were expecting our first baby. This is a picture of me and JDC a little excited and very "freaked out." We had tried to have a baby for more than 9 months, I am not sure why we were surprised but we were!!!!Just a few months later we also invited our second baby into our home. I don't have pictures of finding out that piece of golden news, but I guarentee you surprised does not fully express the emotions we felt. Baby two was due on December 23, 2006. Sixteen months after we had son number 1 we had son number 2, two weeks early, December 14, 2006.

This is our family on Christmas Eve with our 16 month old and our two week old. With memories like this, the holidays will always be sacred time for me and my family!!!
Happy Thanksgiving!!!!

Parties, Parties Everywhere

2009-11-18T13:01:00.005-06:00

I am running around like a mad woman trying to get geared up for the holidays. I look at my calendar and FREAK.....why did I think it was a good idea to have so many parties, get-togethers, etc? Well, that is just who I am.

Rules I live and entertain by:
1. Have way too much food and then eat it ALL!!!
2. Always be ready for unexpected guests....the more the merrier.
3. Take a lot of pictures of the food
4. No mess = a bad day/party
5. Last minute planning works every time.....well, most every time. Vomiting child at the SS Ugly Sweater Party last year threw me a little off my game, but that is the only exception.

But, here is why I do it.

I love to just, "hang out" with my family.
I LOVE to Cook

(turkey from last Thanksgiving....that is my "helper")
Apple Sauce for recent Pork Wellington
Pork Wellington....ummmmmm!
The burnt...very broken two are mine....not the best baker.

I love to make things (especially food) pretty!

Friends, neighbors, friends, friends, friends.....Everyone is always welcome at the Curran House.

(pics from the Ugly Sweater Party last year)

I am getting excited already!!!!!

Happy Birthday Mom

2009-11-13T11:10:00.002-06:00

My mom would be 58 today. She was born November 13, 1952. It was not unusual for her birthday to fall on a Friday....Friday the 13th, none the less. She always joked about Friday the 13th being her birthday. I also remember my mom always being pleased that all three of her children were born on a Friday. I figured that this was just a convenient day of the week for two very busy parents. I never really checked this little fun fact out, but today....in honor of my mother, I did. I used this birthday calculator. Sure enough, we were all born on Friday. I thought there was a chance she was born on a Friday, but no....my mom came into this world on a Thursday.

She always loved this little poem. In fact, when she had my youngest sister, someone gave her a little porcelain box with these words on it.

Monday's Child is fair of face,Tuesday's Child is full of grace,Wednesday's Child is full of woe,Thursday's Child has far to go,Friday's Child is loving and giving,Saturday's Child works hard for a living,But the Child that is born on the Sabbath Day,Is witty and wise and good and gay!
58 Things that Remind Me of My MomYellow RosesSoup TerrinesMy SistersPot RoastMy HandsDishesTable SettingsOU FootballFaberge EggsNCAA BasketballMy Boys (Sons and Nephews)NeedlepointingMy Living Room ChairsTulsaBirthday PartiesHerend ChinaMy Wedding RingCross NecklacesBedlamNew York CityGardeningBirkenstocksUtica SquareHomeworkTuna CasseroleDaffodilsCataloguesHarry ChapinLittle "yippy" dogsa good mealChristmas StockingsAntique StoresBooksSpringMy UnclesAwesome Kitchen'sFresh FlowersLaliqueNote CardsPolishing SilverSapulpaDiet CokeHer Maroon Leather BriefcaseLittle League BaseballCrane ScissorsLadybugsWilliams SonomaItalian GardensBirthday LunchesSkipping BreakfastRed ShoesSouther Living CookbooksNew MexicoSilent NightStaffordshire DogsApril 14October 5January 29

Hey Kids.....the Grand Canyon

2009-11-10T10:48:00.002-06:00

I was so excited to sit by the window on the airplane flying out of Las Vegas. I looked up from my knitting and this is what I saw. I think this is just the edge....but, I am pretty sure it is the Grand Canyon. The boys were very impressed!!!!

Curran Craziness

2009-11-02T19:40:00.003-06:00

Last week was full of Halloween activities. So, I started the week in a mad dash to finish the 2 year old art work for the school carnival and auction. It turned out awesome, but it took 4 different shoots and a little photoshop to complete. I love how it turned out and it was a hot item at the auction.
I also had my supper organized aunt came to help me organize my home....we started with the basement. Her initial comment, "Oh My!" Really? I thought I was doing pretty good. Here is a picture of the entrance to my basement. What do you think?
Wednesday night the nephews joined us for the church carnival. It was a lot of fun, but Jesse thought it was a little loud. Nathan ate sucker after sucker and Adam is still looking for a place to bob for apples. I guess he took the Charlie Brown special to heart.
Thursday night was the school carnival. It was awesome. All of the mom's and teachers did a great job. The kids loved it and I loved shopping the auction.
And, I WON this!!!!!........... The artwork from the Stingray class. Adam's flower is the orange and red one in the middle. I call it the "Ode to Bedlam". I love it!!!!
Saturday morning the sisters and I went wedding dress shopping. I loved the "bird cages". Mary, not so much. However, she has promised me one to go with my Matron of Honor dress. :)
The boys and I Boo'd a few neighbors!
And then we went Trick-or-Treating!!!!

Nate was just along for a ride........and some candy.All in all it was a great week and weekend. I hope you all had a great Halloween!!!!

A ghost story

2009-10-28T22:22:00.001-05:00

No, I don't think so. I have seen lights, heard sounds and seen things move, but I have never actually seen a ghost. However, I once interviewed for a job as the youth minister for a church. One of the church staff members asked..."what will you do when you are on a youth trip and a youth member believes the place you are staying is haunted by ghosts?" Now, I am not even going into the assumptions with this statement, but really? I think this was an attempt at a "liberal" question. You know, to get an idea of my theology...and she was "liberal". This is the crap you get in the Bible belt. :)

A New Piece

2009-10-28T17:06:00.002-05:00

I have really been enjoying everything Marci has taught me with Watercolors. One of the best afternoons in New Mexico I spent in front of the cabin working on a piece for someone for Christmas. (Don't worry readers....the person it is going to does not read my blog.) Anyway, it was so much fun to set time a side to notice the intricacies of the cracks and shadows. I loved it and I love how it turned out.

My New Toy

2009-10-13T08:30:00.003-05:00

I was walking the dog a couple of Saturday's ago and noticed a yard sale at a house at the end of my block. I decided I needed to stop in mainly just to see the house up close. I was quickly checking things out as I heard one of the owners say, "I wish we knew a sewing guild to get a hold of." I stopped, dead in my tracks and asked what type of sewing materials they had. FOUR sewing machines and an assortment of notions. All of the machines were in awesome condition....books, presser feet, and everything. I crossed my fingers for a Singer Featherweight, but no such luck. However they did have a Singer 330A (I think) and a 1951 Singer Centennial Model that belonged to the late owners' mother. It was in a beautiful wooden case and appeared to be in working order. Now, I am the proud owner of my first vintage machine. I cleaned it up, but I am having a little trouble getting it to sew. I think it is user error, because everything appears to be in working order. Here are some more pictures of my little beauty!

Such a Joiner

2009-09-23T10:32:00.003-05:00

I have always been a joiner. I love to meet with other people and chat, knit, create, whatever. I come by it naturally. Here is and article about my paternal grandmother....Patsy Brown is my "Grandma Brown". FYI...she still calls this "study club" and when I ask what she studies she tells me they talk about raising their children. Now that is a committed mother. We should take notes.

Chi Beta marks 60 years with celebration

By Kasey Fowler, Staff Writer
Enid News and Eagle

Chi Beta, a former child study club, met Monday afternoon to honor charter members of the now social club at its 60th anniversary celebration.

Three of the nine charter members of Chi Beta, Peggy Scheffe, Pasty Brown and Dottie Shockly, came to the meeting and discussed the early days of the club. Chi Beta started in September 1949.

“I was in one in Sand Springs, Oklahoma,” Scheffe said. “When I moved here we decided to organize one here. It started as a child study group to learn about how to raise children.”

Chi Beta always had 30 members. The only requirement to be considered for membership was a woman had to be pregnant or have a baby.

“My rabbit died, so they let me join,” Brown said.

She explained in that day when a woman was thought to be pregnant, the doctor injected a rabbit with fluid from the woman. If the rabbit died, the woman was pregnant.

When the club was first formed they met twice a month at a member’s home.

“We met two times a month. We had babies, and we were happy to get away,” Brown said.

“And, our husbands learned to baby-sit,” Shockly added.

The Chi Betas also did volunteer work.

“All the Chi Betas worked on the telethon for the Vision and Hearing Clinic. We do Meals on Wheels,” Brown said. “We took a lot of toys and clothes to the YWCA. We always had a project.”

Chi Beta now is a social club that meets in the afternoon once a month.

My Boy Makes Me Proud

2009-09-15T12:40:00.002-05:00

This week I asked my oldest what he wanted to get his Papa John for his birthday. He threw out a few ideas, a trampoline, a pet (you are welcome Grandma...I nixed that idea), a new cat cage....I don't know why. Finally, he suggested a telescope for him and Papa to use. I asked where we might find one of those and this is what he said.

"Well, we can go to the junk yard and find a big, big, big metal tube. Then we can collect some glass and take it to be recycled. We can use the glass to make a telescope glass and then we can give it to Papa."

I thought this was so creative and I love that he wants to reuse and recycle. Precious.

Summer Knitting Project Complete

2009-09-09T07:35:00.002-05:00

I began some special hats for some special boys.....twins born May 18th. Their mom is a great knitter so I decided to do a little more complicated pattern. Well, lets just say these were the two most difficult baby hats I have ever made. I must have frogged them a dozen times. I like to make baby items after the baby(s) is(are) born so I can think about and pray for the little one. Last night I was thinking, I guess these little guys needed some extra prayers since they were born a little early. There mom got a few prayers as well! :) I will post pictures of the hats once I give them away.

Natural Rhythm

2009-09-08T11:14:00.002-05:00

I was recently talking with my aunt....b@#ching is more accurate. She made a comment that really added some perspective to the situation. She said, “you know, this season too will pass.” It was made in reference to my feelings of a strained relationship with a family member, but it also made me think about the time that I have right now with my children and as a stay at home mom. I have spent so much time sulking around this house this summer. It is time to get up and get going. Do something I love! Enjoy my children.

I have decided to go back to the natural rhythm that I discovered while on maternity leave with both of my children. I had my list of things I had to do: eat, feed baby, change baby, bathe, sleep. That was pretty much it. I just resigned myself to do this in whatever order felt natural and run over the list every evening to make sure all had been accomplished. Life was so simple yet also difficult, but I found as I listened to my body and did what felt like was what needed to be done at that moment, everything was completed. My list is longer now and includes things like laundry, picking up bedrooms, walking the dog, preparing meals, definitely a work out, and even blogging. I am going to revisit this pan and try to find a more natural rhythm and one that leaves time and energy for the things I want to do, reading, writing, and knitting. This season too will pass and I want to enjoy every moment along the way....well, maybe not every moment, but most of them.

Cousin Fun

2009-09-04T13:15:00.004-05:00

Three years ago, August 30 2006, my precious nephews were born. I don't think my sister has slowed down sense. They were 8 weeks early and teeny tiny. Now.....
They are little balls of energy. We celebrated their birthday at Chuck E Cheese. The had a good time but Jesse thought that there were, "too many people." He was a little nervous.

The actual day of their birthday we enjoyed a beautiful day at the zoo and a cookout at their house. Then, on Tuesday we got to hang out with Finley while her mom and dad went out for Michelle's birthday dinner. We all had a really great time. Especially Fin. We are so blessed.

It's A Date!

2009-09-02T16:35:00.007-05:00

A couple of friends and I, recognizing that we are all home alone a lot in the evenings, decided to start our own Art Club. I am so blessed to have so many talented friends that are willing to share their gifts with a major armature like myself. We decided to pick a medium and then work on it for a month or so and then pick something different.

Watercolor was up first. I have had some watercolor's that I had no idea what to do with. That is where Marcy came in. She was awesome. I selected a picture that I took in New Mexico of the bird that kept me company when mom died. Here are the results. What do you think?

I am pleased with it, but most of all I am thankful for the loving, talented friends that I have that are into the same things I am. This is therapy for all of us and I know that friendships will grow with every stroke of the brush.

As for the rest of my life, things are getting more and more back to normal. The boys are back in school and loving it. I have started working out again and I continue to write and blog. There are never enough hours in the day, but Life is Good.

Comic Fun

2009-08-27T10:00:00.004-05:00

Last Halloween my oldest wanted to be Spiderman. We went out early and looked for a costume and found the perfect one. He was soooooo cute. One of our many celebrations involved going to Aunt Linda's for an afternoon party. I was taking random pictures and came away with this pose. (He had no idea this was what Spiderman did.....I think he had lost his balance.) I have been trying to figure out with to do with the picture.
Here is what I came up with!!!!
I love it! What do you think?

Dancing in the Rain

2009-08-24T14:36:00.011-05:00

I have been joking back and forth with a cousin recently. She posted something on Twitter about with every rain their is a rainbow and I told her (after the summer I have had) there still is no sign of a rainbow. She commented that I should pray for sunshine. Well, heck, here in Oklahoma in August I am SICK of sunshine and there is still no rainbow in sight. Then I went to church on Sunday, and found the answer I had been looking for.

Our minister preached a sermon entitled "Learn to Dance in the Rain." In a nutshell, it was about how there will be storms in our lives and the gift that God gives us is the ability to not be afraid to dance in the rain. This got me thinking. I do know how to dance in the rain. This was much easier when I was a child and had less inhibition, but I still remember.....I think. Dancing in the rain as an adult is a little different.

1. I know people may talk. Why is she so happy today? Wasn't she crying her eyes out yesterday?

2. I feel guilty. How can I have a party for my child and invite all of our friends and my dad's new wife? What would mom think? Should I take her picture down for the party so people don't feel uncomfortable?

3. Eventually you are going to have to clean up. Not just dry off, but really clean up and get things back to "normal".

On the other hand, things are not all that different now.

It feels good to think about nothing but the fun you are having in the moment.

This is what I did this weekend as I had my son's 4th birthday party. I had been dreading in for weeks. How can I be in charge of such a fun event when I still feel so sad? God gives us the ability to dance in the rain. I was dancing and I didn't even realize it. I sent out e-mail invitations a couple of weeks in advance, but the preparation for the party did not start until the day before. It all worked out and now I know why.
We turned the backyard playground into a superhero hideout.
We made capes for all of the kids....24 to be exact.
We strung flags to wave over head.
We invited all of my favorite superhero's!

The cake was a bit of a disaster. I can cook, I can knit, I can design invitations, I can sew. I CANNOT Bake!!! But, it worked out. I just wrote, "we've been attacked!"

A perfect way to celebrate the best day of my entire life.....when I became a mom. Two days later he started preschool. What a big boy.

I am Back!

2009-08-13T10:11:00.002-05:00

It has been two months, two weeks and two days since we found my mom. She died alone in her apartment at 57. This time has been a complete fog. I remember few of the details of everyday life but the memories of planning my mom's funeral and working out the business details post-mortem are forever going over and over in my head.

Well, life must go on and I am back. I am back from my three week hiatus in New Mexico and I am back to life as it is "after my mom died". Finally, I am back to blogging. This blog has been so cathartic over the past couple of years. I kept this as a sacred place where I talked about all of the wonderful things going on in my life.....outside of the hospital visits, sleepless nights, family arguments, and deep desperation of caring for a parent dealing with addiction. I was not sure I could or should continue after she died. Things are different now. I know how her story ends. There is no more hope that somehow she will pull out of the tailspin.

So, here is what I have decided. I will take it one day at a time (thanks AlAnon for the slogan). I will continue this blog and see how it goes. One of my favorite books to read with my children is We're Going on a Bear Hunt, by Michael Rosen. I love the part in each section that says, "you can't go over it, you can't go under it, we must go through it." This line has gone over and over in my head over the past several years and it is the approach I have decided to take in dealing with the overwhelming grief of losing my beautiful mother.

I'm Not Afraid!!!!

Menu For New Mexico Trip

2009-07-20T18:23:00.002-05:00

I just finished the tentative menu for our time out at the Cabin. It features everything from Pork Wellington to Hamburgers. Also included.......Mexican Night (enchilada's and pasole), Chicken Salad, Steak Night, Fluffy Omlets, Tacos, BBQ Sandwiches, Chicken Lombardi to name a few. I am hungry already.

Back in the Studio

2009-07-17T17:05:00.005-05:00

I finally got back into the studio today after a several week hiatus. I finally got all of my mom's paperwork out of the boxes and sorted and today was the first day I really enjoyed my studio. It was good to be back. I didn't do very much, but I got some new fabric ironed and my linen napkins ironed. Some of the fabric I ironed is for this Anna Maria Horner pattern that I recently purchased. And it is AMY BUTLER. I am so excited.

The fabric I chose is for the main outside and for the contrast.

Long, Hot Summer

2009-07-14T15:57:00.003-05:00

I have missed my time posting, but every time I sit down to write I am overcome with emotion. When mom was still alive, things were so tough. We never knew what to expect or how a day would begin or end. Now, I know.....and I don't feel any better. I used to write for therapy. I started this blog as a place to create my own hopeful world at a time in my life that seemed so hopeless. I committed to only write about happy and upbeat things. My art, my children, photography, cooking.....all of the things that made me smile. Since then, mom has died and a huge part of me is missing. It just doesn't seem right to only post about the happy things. The things that seem happy to me probably don't seem so sacred to the readers.....if I have any readers left after this crazy time.

Here are the things that make me smile:

nights without the phone ringing off the hook

my children TALKING about Grandma P. not ASKING about Grandma P.

Fewer Nightmares

People telling me they are thinking about me instead of asking how mom is doing

knowing that my mom is finally enjoying some peace

The smiles still come through a vail of tears, but it is there. I am going to move on.....we are going to move on, but I will forever think of my mother at every turn. One day the good will outweigh the bad, but that is not going to happen on my time.

I can fight these feelings or trust that this is all a part of grief. I was listening to an interview with Elizabeth Edwards the other day. She said something that made a lot of sense to me. "You look at death differently when you have placed a child in the ground." I pray that I will never know that pain, but I know the sentiment. Things are just not so scary.

I have been listening to Joshua Kadison a lot lately. Every song on his Album, The Complete Venice Beach Sessions seem to tell a little more of my life's story right now. But, my favorite is Gratitude. I am grateful.....grateful for everyone for being so understanding when I am late or just mentally absent, grateful for my children, thankful for some quiet.

GRATITUDE
I hope you find what you're looking for
I hope you get all you desire
I hope that all your dreams come true
I hope they all lift you higher
Now all the visions I once had
of the way our lives would be
I can offer up at last
to the beauty that I see
So please forgive me, please forgive me
for thinking that I ever had
the secret to your holy mystery
please forgive me, please forgive me
for thinking that I ever had
the secret to your holy mystery
And can you feel my gratitude.....
can you feel my gratitude for you
can you feel my gratitude
feel it running deep
feel it running true
can you feel my gratitude....
feel my gratitude for you
can you feel my gratitude for you
It's such an esoteric work
the way you finally said goodbye
took so long for me to hear
through the noise of wondering why
'til I had no place left to run
and I finally had to face
what was really only me
imagining my fall from grace
So please forgive me, please forgive me
for thinking that I ever had the secret to your holy mystery
So please forgive me, please forgive me
for thinking that I ever had the secret to your holy mystery
And can you feel my gratitude.....
can you feel my gratitude for you
can you feel my gratitude
feel it running deep
feel it running true
can you feel my gratitude....
feel my gratitude for you

BTW....it is HOT. 106 degrees HOT!!!......for the second day in a row. I am ready for New Mexico and then Fall.

La Fiesta Parade

2009-07-08T10:29:00.004-05:00

You don't get more 4th of July than a small town parade and Las Vegas, NM knows how to do it right. They have an annual 4th of July celebration that is awesome. I have not been in a few years and this year did not disappoint. They had everything....loud music, candy in the streets, great floats, music, etc. View the whole set here then sit back and imagine the smell of a carnival and enchiladas mixed together. ;)

Making Cakes with Mom

2009-06-17T11:04:00.004-05:00

There are a lot of challenges in caring for someone who struggles deeply with addiction. One of the more painful are the unfulfilled promises. Over the past four years it has made me so angry when mom would promise my children something that I knew would never happen. Somehow it had become okay with me when she did this to me, but NOT my children. The last year was particularly difficult with the oldest. We would see her just out of the hospital or as we took her to the store and every time she would promise my boys to make little cakes with them....a train at Christmas, Eggs for Easter, Bugs for the spring and summer. Each time I knew this would not happen. We drove by her apartment everyday and the oldest would ask if we could stop and make these cakes with Grandma Patti. "Another time," I would say.

When mom died I realized that the saddest thing about these unfulfilled promises was that Mom so wanted them to come true....probably even more than my boys did. So, as a way to share my sweet mom with my children and my nephews my aunt baked the bug cakes and we let them decorate them. We told them that they were from Grandma Patti. They loved every second of it. Now, my boys tell me all the time how much they love Grandma Patti.

THANKS!!!! Aunt Claudia

Thinking of Mom

2009-06-17T10:56:00.004-05:00

Grief is such a strange thing. I have moments of normal and then hours of contemplation. Mom had been sick for so long and some of the better memories of her had faded. It was strange when she died...it was like all of these old memories flooded back into my head. Here are some pictures that remind me of those times.

Home Sweet Home

2009-06-16T22:41:00.003-05:00

This summer has obviously not gone exactly as planned, but I can't say it has been bad. I have always been very social.....OUT and ABOUT. That is my style. Instead, lately I have stayed close to home. It has led to some much needed private/family time. Today we made Green Eggs and Ham for no reason other than it seemed like a good idea. We also made freshly squeezed lemonade. The oldest wanted pink....a little food coloring and voila. I have also been enjoying these lovelies out of my flowerbed....fresh every couple of days. I really need to freshen the current ones.
This lifestyle is sure to be short lived, but right now it is being sustained by my precious friends who stop by with food. Not just any food, but this.....

and this!

Sweet Little Bird

2009-06-09T11:44:00.003-05:00

We called my maternal grandfather Papa. My sisters and I visited him often and he loved to joke around and tease us. I remember sitting with him for hours watching old movies and game shows on hot summer days. The only rule was, “don’t sit in Papa’s chair.” The punishment for such an offense, he would sit on YOU.

I was in high school when we learned Papa had developed lung cancer. It had never really occurred to me that the grandparents I had loved so much would not be with us forever. I was heartbroken. The lung cancer eventually went into remission but when it came back, it came back with a vengeance. Cancer traveled into his bones and later into his brain. The sweet, loving grandfather I had once known was now stern and angry. The only thing that made him smile was sitting in his living room looking at the birds that frequented his bird feeders. He specifically pointed one out to me one day. It was a sweet little brown bird with a yellow breast.

A week or so later I sat in my creative writing class and wrote a poem about a little yellow bird that finally found his way. In my mind this little bird was my Papa and he had found a place to be free from pain and fear of death and leaving his family. I was so proud of this poem, but not confident enough to do anything with it other than leave it in my blue and white striped journal.

I thought of this poem often in the months leading up to his death. I thought of it especially when I sat on the curb in the front of his house as the firemen volunteered to come and move him from his bed to the hospital bed that had been delivered. He winced in pain and the agony could be heard and felt a couple of houses down. I thought of this poem when I sat with him the last two weeks of his life as his body got weaker and weaker and each breath more shallow. I thought of this poem the morning that we woke up before dawn and realized that the first night we all went to sleep Papa took his last breath.

The thought of the peace and hope that came from this bird I had imagined in my head has brought me comfort in the 10 years since my Papa’s death. I would think of its innocence and sweet song when I would imagine what my grandfather would say about my mom and all of her struggles.

Days, weeks, years passed and the memories of this bird and the pain of the loss of my Papa became more and more faint. But the pain of what to do for my mother, how do I help her, how do I tell her I love her grew heavier on my heart. The place I found solace was our summer home in New Mexico. There I could go and feel close to God and Creation. It was here, the week of Mom’s death, the bird came to see me again.

I arrived at the cabin Monday afternoon. It was a beautiful day and I was surprisingly energetic after an 8 hour car ride with two toddlers. I walked in and looked out the window and there was this little bird looking back at me. I smiled, walked away and went on with our unpacking. I went in to check on dinner a little while later….there the bird sat still looking at us. Later, I gave the boys a bath to calm them down and ease them into bedtime. I looked out the window at Hermit’s Peak and was distracted by that bird that was watching our nighttime routine. I walked in and commented to my aunt, “I think that bird just wants to watch us.”

The next day my aunt and I laughed each time we would notice the bird sitting on the fence watching us as we went about our day. At one point she commented that she might take some food to that side of the cabin, “maybe he is frightened to go to the front.” I looked out at her sweet face and said, “no, I think she just likes watching us.”

Wednesday morning the bird watched us make breakfast and I said, I think that bird has a name. In my head it was Lucy, but my aunt said she had been calling her Lucille. We laughed and went about our business of sewing and tending to the kids. I told the bird goodnight when I saw her as the sun was setting knowing I would see her again in the morning.

I woke up Thursday morning to a spectacular day. We decided to go on a picnic up at Johnson’s Mesa. I made sandwiches and we gathered the boys. I went into brush my teeth as the phone rang. It was my husband, “Your mom is dead,” he said. I took a deep breath, it was like I had been punched in the stomach. We spoke briefly about details and I told him I was on my way home. I hung up the phone and walked to the kitchen window. I looked out and saw the bird peering in….it wasn’t until then that I realized that the bird had a yellow breast and made the connection that my Papa’s wife’s given name was Lucye, we called her Nanny. My mom had found peace and was with her parents now. That was what the bird was trying to tell me all week.

Where have I been?

2009-06-03T14:36:00.002-05:00

Patti Powell Brown

1951-2009

My mother died on May 21st. This has been a very difficult time for me and my family. We are deep in the middle of grieving and healing, but I have a lot of wonderful memories of my mother that I look forward to sharing with you all.

The funeral service for Patti Brown, 57, of Oklahoma City, formerly of Enid, will be 3 p.m. Tuesday, May 26, 2009, at St. Luke's United Methodist Church, Watchhorn Chapel, Oklahoma City, with Revs. Wendy Lambert and Linda Brinkworth officiating. Burial will be in South Heights Cemetery, Sapulpa. Service is under the direction of Brown-Cummings Funeral Home. A register book is available at Brown-Cummings Funeral Home for friends to sign.Patti was born on Nov. 13, 1951, in Tulsa to Jesse and Lucye Maxey Powell, and died Thursday, May 21, 2009, in Oklahoma City.Patti was raised in Sapulpa and graduated from Sapulpa High School. She graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a bachelor's degree in accounting. At the University of Oklahoma, Patti was a member of Chi Omega Sorority and Beta Gamma Sigma. In 1974, Patti married Gary L. Brown in Sapulpa. Patti was a certified public accountant and worked in the Tulsa office of Arthur Andersen and Co. She later moved to Enid, where she was in private practice until four years ago. Patti was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Enid and served on the board of deacons. She was a member of PEO, Chapter Q, and served as president. She also was a member of Junior Welfare League, served on the board of directors of Enid Public School Foundation and was treasurer of Enid Food 4 Kids.Patti is survived by three daughters, Amy and husband, Dillon Curran, of Oklahoma City, Tracy and husband, Tim Dowell, of Oklahoma City and Mary Brown and fiance, Joel Siria, of Norman; grandchildren, John Adam, Nathan, Jesse and Charlie; and two brothers, Steve Powell of Tulsa and Bill Powell of Sapulpa. Patti was preceded in death by her parents.Memorials may be made to the deacons fund of First Presbyterian Church with Brown-Cummings Funeral Home serving as custodian of the funds.Condolences may be made to the family online at brown-cummings.com.(Paid Obit 5-25-1)

Published in The Enid News & Eagle from 5/24/2009 - 5/26/2009

Too Much of a Good Thing

2009-05-06T10:11:00.004-05:00

I have always liked roller coasters....but, this is a starting to get old.

I remember when I was a kid, I went to Bell's Amusement Park with a friend's church group. (Bells..........does anyone even remember that place?.....I am aging myself.) Anyway, we had wristbands that allowed us to get on the rides for free, all day, as often as we wanted. This was in the last years of the park so NO ONE was there and we rode the same rides over and over. We would ride the roller coasters and not even have to get off, we just flashed our wrists and we were off again, and again, and again. This was AWESOME and then it got old....really OLD. Finally, I jumped off saying, "I need a break."

Now that I am a parent of two sweet, sweet boys, this memory keeps popping up in my mind. The beauty of being a mom is that the sunny days are even more beautiful...the down side, the rainy days seem to last longer and be a little darker. (Have I mentioned it has rained for almost a week here in OKC?) The spouses long work days used to be rough, but now they seem to dictate our lives. I MISS my sisters.....we have always been together....now the four Boys (between the three of us) 7 if you count husbands, make "girl time" RARE to say the least. Not to mention I "STRUGGLE" with over-commiting myself. Somehow I think getting the boys out of the house should only take a third of the time it actually takes.

I am in desperate need of a break and I think it is coming. 12 days until the boys and I leave for our first of many trips out to New Mexico this summer......I can't wait. I am going with my aunt and mother in law so girl time will happen too. BONUS!

Check out my home away from home....HERE

Earth Day 2009

2009-04-27T20:58:00.002-05:00

Earth Day 2009
Originally uploaded by UpNAdam

Life here in OKC is nothing if it is not hectic and I am feeling bad that I never did post my Earth Day pictures.

The mosaic is not my favorite, but it does feature several of my favorite places. I stopped by some front yard gardens in Central Park, then I hit the Red Cup.....one of my favorite local restaurant's, then I went by CYO's community Garden's...I love the red dirt.

All in all we are very blessed to have so many great people and places that love the Earth and do what they can to enrich our community.

Here are a couple of great local blogs that discuss Sustainability Issues.

FreshGreens

OKCherbivore

A Great Apartment

2009-04-27T20:42:00.002-05:00

One of my contacts on Flickr is a photographer here in town. I love her work. I most enjoy her use of color. She was recently featured in Apartment Therapy. I was really inspired....her apartment really reflects her great use of color. Check out Beth Jansen's Photostream HERE.

I just got an Awesome tour of Tower Theater

2009-04-25T13:03:00.002-05:00

The Tower Theatre, built in 1937, originally was a 1500 seat, ornate auditorium had a complete working stage, pipe organ, and billowing, scarlet waterfall stage curtains. It was also one of the first suburban theaters in Oklahoma City and one of the largest suburban theaters in the region. In the early sixties the theatre was given a deluxe renovation---70mm, rocking chair seats, very plush and very comfortable. Roadshow attractions were the staple with "Sound of Music" running at the Tower on a reserved seat basis for almost two years. "The Sand Pebbles" and "Cleopatra" also played at the Tower during those roadshow- reserved seat days.

Today the HHNA hosted a tour for neighbors to get a look at the Theater and the plans for its renovation. It was super cool and I absolutely loved looking at the old building and great treasures throughout. The best part was the projector room.....it looks like someone just walked out and left it frozen in time. Here are the pictures I took. I look forward to seeing what comes out of this project.

My Tiny Vegas IS BACK

2009-04-15T10:08:00.005-05:00

The blog documenting my ABSOLUTE FAVORITE corner of America, Las Vegas, New Mexico, is back and better than ever. I am thrilled that Birdie is on Twitter and therefore, I found she has "come home" to her original blog.....or at least the one where I first discovered her.

I cannot tell you how excited I was a couple of years ago when I discovered this blog. In fact, it is one of the first blogs that I followed regularly (now I am up to at least 50). Birdie is very well written, a professional writer, in fact. And, she loves New Mexico, specifically the Las Vegas area. For those of you who do not know, this is the town where my home away from home sits out side. It is like going on an exotic vacation every time I visit. The town, the people, the culture, the green chilies are BEAUTIFUL. Birdie is also a great photographer. I love how she documents with words and photos the everyday. That is what I miss the most. Last night when I was reading her blog I learned that the Ladybug Migration occurs in the Spring, not just the Fall. I have made special effort to be up there in the Fall, but who knew. It is absolutly amazing.

I could go on and on, but I have to do some laundry or I am going to get fired from my SAHM gig. If you get a chance, check out mytinyvegas.com and drop Birdie a note of what you think. Don't worry, I am sure she is already aware that I stalk her. :)

What is Easter without the MESS

2009-04-14T14:08:00.002-05:00

We celebrated Easter "cousin style" at Aunt Tracy's the night before. We decorated cookies, dyed eggs, did the egg hunt, ate some ribs..yummmmmmm. It was a great time, but not without mess. Too bad I didn't get a picture of my older one spilling egg dye on the little white Maltese and the dog running to an open area to shake the blue water off.

Pictures of Sunday are still to come. It was a great weekend packed with lots of family fun.

I finished my Homework

2009-04-07T14:10:00.003-05:00

I knew I loved school. I finished the homework assignment from my quilting class wayyyyyyyy early. I am pleased with how it is coming together, but it is just one block of four....so I have a ways to go. We were instructed to stop at this point. I have no idea how we are going to get this quilt made in three weeks, but I am patient. I have a feeling my "homework" will be more intense next week. This is reminding me of college. The first week you think you are money and then they hit you with the midterm. The picture is not the best....it was taken with my iPhone because that was all I had on me at the time.

Off to pick up the boys and run by CYO.

A New Brother

2009-04-06T11:22:00.002-05:00

I am very lucky to have another great guy to add to my list of Brother In Law's. Yes, that is right, Mary, my much younger sister is getting married. Congratulations to the Happy Couple.

By the way, Joel did great on the Ring. The diamond was given to Mary by my grandmother. It was my great grandmother's, Mary's namesake.

Here we are celebrating....yes, I am the older, wiser, bigger one of the bunch!

My Locovorous Habits

2009-04-02T13:42:00.003-05:00

I learned a new word today thanks to Kelly Petkun of the KnitPicks Podcast.

Locovor: the practice of eating food that is grown locally.
Origin: Almaden, San Jose, Santa Cruz, SFO
Being a locovore decreases the amount of greenhouse gases, as the food consumed is sourced locally, instead of being trucked in to my city.

ummmmmmm! I can't wait until the first harvest. My habit if fed primarily by Kam at the Guilford Garden's here in OKC.

Have No Fear!

2009-03-26T11:04:00.002-05:00

"Speak your truths boldly on journaled surfaces others can see, and the truth will set you all free. Journal a Lazy Susan with your frustrations about running in circles and getting nowhere. Let your napkin holder extol the joys of getting food all over your face. Your flower pots can announce what wishes grow inside. This type of journaling will spark conversation, laughter and closer relationships." -- Journal Revolution, Linda Woods and Karen Dinino

I used to journal and I take it back up here and there. I never get very far but I often think of this blog as my Journal. It is not as private as the words I write in a carefully selected book, but it is a Journal none the less. I often hit a wall when trying to get a post started. I love to have a picture or illustration at the top of each entry. I read this quote this morning and it made me think about getting out of my comfort zone and using illustrations or photographs of something less glamorous than what I have done in the past and us this as insight into my mind.

A Great Deal on A Good Book

2009-03-25T11:03:00.003-05:00

I almost bought this book at Barnes and Noble for the listed $40.00 and then I found it on Amazon for $26.00. I think it is a Birthday Must Have! I love Annie Leibovitz.

Spring is in Bloom

2009-03-24T12:21:00.003-05:00

It is a beautiful day here in OKC and I am enjoying a quiet lunch listening to the birds out back. I am thrilled that it is really spring. This is the time of the year that I feel most inspired. I love the newness of everything. I am getting ready to go to Dallas to do some fabric shopping and I have an unending queue of knitting projects. I am also inspired by my bloglist of friends and family.....I realized today that it went from three to 19. You all are awesome! Thanks for your words of inspiration.

Time to get my head out of the clouds and get some housework done.

Later!

The Madness Begins

2009-03-19T13:33:00.005-05:00

I am two for two in my NCAA Bracket! I rock.....now, don't get to excited....it is usually about this time that things go south, but it is fun for now. Thank you LSU and Texas A&M. I am a little nervous about my Arizona and American picks. I just have a feeling.

I am soooooooo behind on my blogging, knitting, etc. Spring Break has been hard on these endeavors. Look on the bright side, I made it to the OKC Zoo not once, but twice. I had a record number of people at Church Knitting last night!!! 26, I can hardly believe it. I guess knitters don't go on Spring Break. Then, we had a very successful SWAP at SNB. I didn't win, but Jenny did and she is getting married on Friday, so Congratulations on both accounts.

The big guy just woke up.....I don't think he ever really even napped. So, I must go, but here are a couple of pics from our week. Back to my ART next week.

The ticket line at the OKC Zoo on St. Patrick's Day....Really?
Thank goodness the boys were amazed by the bats. We were stuck in this spot for at least 15 minutes due to the massive crowds. Note: they have not turned the air on in the barn yet.

Some of my knitting buddies.
A crocheted throw in progress. Beautiful.
Sweet Virginia is always teaching.
Items in the SWAP
Basket up for the drawing.
And the winner is!!!!!!!JENNY

I am now three for three......THANK YOU Memphis!

TOO SWEET

2009-03-06T13:55:00.003-06:00

This is a gift I knit for a friend's little girl's first birthday. I love how it turned out. I am not sure if I like the hat or the packaging more.

A Litte Craft.......BEER

2009-03-06T13:05:00.006-06:00

A good friend opened a local microbrewery here in OKC. The ribbon cutting was this past Tuesday. So, what can a girl do but get childcare and go drink a beer at two in the afternoon. This is a project that was worth celebrating. JD Merryweather has been working on this for three years now. They have developed everything from the business plan, the recipes, the art, and even an environmental sustainability plan.

I have become very happy in the niche I have found in Oklahoma City. It is full of creative, politically aware people who are dedicated to making this part of the world a place of innovation that is uniquely Oklahoman. JD does this with passion and COOP Ale Works is a product of this dedication.

Check out some pictures of the Ribbon Cutting and a Tour from my night at the Brewery (tour pics taken with my iphone, forgive the quality).

There is also a great article on BeerNews.org.

Relief for Baby Fever

2009-02-24T17:01:00.004-06:00

Can I tell you that the last thing I need to add to my crazy life is another baby? I don't know why but for some reason, friends having babies makes me think I need one. NO, NO, NO. So, I have started doing all I know......knitting. I bought A LOT of Cotton Classic (only natural fibers will do) and I am making hats and booties. Hat number one is almost finished. It has a Dr. Seuss theme. I can't say who it is being made for just yet, but the theme may give it away. Here is some of the yarn that will be adorning the heads of my friends little angel's.
Here are the invitations, thank you's and gift cards I made for a friend. I was pleased with how they turned out. However, the invites came back with my logo upside down. Of course, the one with a time restraint is the one that is messed up. So, I did the best I could and took them to Kinko's and said I wanted them reproduced as close to the ones printed as possible. They wouldn't do it because of copyright. I guess it looked too professional. Are you kidding me? I finally had to go home, get my computer, take it up there, and prove that I had created the document and that the logo was mine. This stuff only happens to me. :)

The Amazing Faiths Project

2009-02-23T10:59:00.006-06:00

I rarely talk explicitly about my faith on this blog. If you know me, you can probably tell that my faith is not absent....it is just not out in the way many from the Bible Belt share it with quotes, italics, and scripture verses. I don't really have a problem with this type of openness, but I have always been a little more discreet. My issue with this began when I skimmed through the 2007
Oklahoma Blog Awards last year. Nearly every blog was drowning in Religious Cliche. I couldn't decide if this is just what makes and Oklahoma Blog an Oklahoma Blog or if you could only receive a nomination if you wore your faith on your sleeve. Not to mention the views shared were all strangely similar. Last week I found the link to the 2008 Okie Blog Awards.....same thing....REALLY? I read a lot of blogs written by people across the country. Many, many of them are people of faith, but few of them fill their posts with scripture and personal testimony's the way they do in Oklahoma.

Let me digress a moment. Last week I went to an event hosted here in Oklahoma City called The Amazing Faiths Project. It was publicized to the community as an Interfaith Event to bring people of all faiths together to share their experience with faith. We walked in, filled out name tags, and received pieces of of paper. The paper was color coded and represented our faith tradition. The Rabbi talked about the sanctuary and a little about the Jewish tradition. Then we had the opportunity to go into the next room and form small groups. The idea was to get in groups with various faith tradition. We set a date to meet for dinner and answer questions based on our personal experience with our faith. I found this event to be eye opening. Although there were not a lot of people there, a fair number of faiths were represented. This is something that does not happen very often here in Oklahoma. What I found especially refreshing, was the openness everyone was with one another. People seemed very open to deepen their faith by learning about the traditions of others.

Here is where these two situations collide and it hit me.....I need this type of environment for MY faith to be strengthened. I don't mean strengthened in the "now I feel closer to God or Jesus" kind of way. More the "I have a clearer sense of God and the many facets of God's love, and compassion through history." This is where a small piece of clarity came. It is comfortable for me to share my life through the lens of my faith as long as it focuses on what is generally acceptable around here. Unfortunately, this story is only part of my story. I suppose you want me to tell you what I believe. Well, I am not comfortable with that now. I hope that eventually I will be at a point where I can be more open, but for now....if you want to know, lets do lunch.

FINALLY......Some Art

2009-02-18T10:39:00.005-06:00

One of my "New Year's Resolutions" was to get on top of some organizing before I got back into the "studio". This is an easy escape for me, and I found some of my "chores" were being neglected. I planned on this taking about a week, but since I always underestimate the time things take and then I started two new mini-jobs.....I am just now at a good place.

I have really missed this time. So, yesterday I played with an idea I had of making a bird pillow. You all know I have an obsession with birds. I had been looking for a pattern, but never found one, so I made it up. It turned out okay. I am thinking about perfecting it a little and making it for a promised baby gift. The one I will make will be pink and brown with green stitching.

I also made a list of baby gifts I would like to make......really. I need 9, 3 boys, 3 girls, and 3 TBA.

Today I played with some oil pastels. Again, another bird. I really need to move on, but birds or so cute and they remind me of spring. I loved playing with the colors.....mixing and blending. I think I can improve my skills, but if not....it was a lot of fun. By the way....my favorite part of art is making a mess. Crazy....I know for my type A personality, but it doesn't seem creative without a mess.

I also did some creative shopping. I love vintage fabric....especially when I find it on sale for CHEAP. And, I decided to start a collection of vintage/antique spools and spindles. I found one for $6.00. LOVE IT!

I was also commissioned to do some birthday invitations, thank you's and gift tags for a friend. Lot's of fun.

Enjoy and more to come.

Inspi(RED)

2009-02-13T14:17:00.002-06:00

I have been inspired by the girls I have come to know at Emerson School over the past few years. They are all going through so much and are working very hard to make a better life for themselves and their children. It has been an honor to get to know them. Thursday we had our annual Valentine's Day party for the girls. It was so much fun. I really enjoyed hearing about their lives and thinking about how different all of our experiences are as mothers.

We are also working on a knitting project. The girls each started a Traveling Scarf and we are all knitting on them. As we knit, we journal. We can journal about whatever, but it has to be true and give detail on something in our life while each particular scarf is in our possession. I can not wait to find out how it turns out.

Is it really just February?

2009-02-13T14:02:00.004-06:00

Tuesday was a fairly nice day here in the metropolis of Oklahoma City. I got a lot done and just before I picked up the boys I ran out to pick up the "supplies" the oldest had asked for to make Valentine cards. I pulled onto the highway to head to their school and the Tornado Siren started to go off. Really? It is February. The radio starts telling people to get out of their cars....this is the last thing I am going to do. I have lived in Oklahoma all my life, and I still a little unnerving when you hear those words. Now that I have kids, it is really upsetting. I have no confidence that anyone but me can protect them from danger.....I know, this is why I am going gray. So, I make it to school, rush in, rush out, and we get home. It is not until I turn on the TV that I realize the storms are way north of me. So, we watch the weather and made our Valentine's. It was a great time. I even let them use glitter....by themselves. This is BIG for a Type A like me. They turned out great. The little one worked and worked on his first card. The older one plowed on through and made several. I kept trying to take the little one's card and get him started on another. This was to no avail. Finally, after four or five attempts he said, "here Mama." I guess he was finished. Precious.

We will Survive

2009-01-28T09:20:00.003-06:00

I cannot stand to be cooped up in the house. I know no one likes it, but I really despise it. I started getting nervous about the ice storm last Sunday....by the time the ice began to fall, I was completely crazy. BUT, the good news is with the help of my "charming" children and a little creativity, we will survive. Here is how we have been passing the time.
The boys were looking at the "snow". They wanted to go make snow angels, but I told them that would be a little difficult since it was not snow...just a lot of ice. They were not convinced. Then the older one asked if they were going to get more presents.....of course, since Santa comes every time it snows.

I decided to make my Nanny's Dumplin's. I have her recipe box and the Chicken 'n Dumplin card, but there are a few things you have to do by memory. They turned out delicious. Ummmmmm.

While I was looking for the equipment, the boys decided to play "pots and pans". They got this idea from the Sandra Boynton song. I gave each of them a jello mold and a wooden spoon. They loved it and paraded all over the house. Then......Adam said, we need more bigger, louder pots and pans.

Today, school is out again, but the sun is out!!!! We are going to make it.

How about a little Oklahoma Weather?

2009-01-26T12:51:00.002-06:00

Here in Oklahoma we have a variety of weather issues. In short, when it's hot, it's hot and when it's cold, its cold! I left the house a little before nine this morning and it was a little cold. Two hours later my car was iced over and the roads were SLICK. Now I am home bound and knitting. This would really be a bummer if I had to be out, but for now I am enjoying a COLD day.

Blogging Barack

2009-01-21T13:43:00.008-06:00

Yesterday was truly and inspiring day. I was so excited that I woke up at 5 am and planned out my day so I could see and listen to as much of the inauguration as possible. It was great to see so many people attending and tuned in to the future of our country.

I am so excited that the future of our country, although in turmoil, seems so hopeful for my little guys. I am so proud to raise them in a country of diversity and freedom.

I kept meaning to sit down and blog, but everytime I had the opportunity I became distracted by all of the happenings. Finally, I fell asleep to commentary at Ball #4. I think I even had a little inauguration hang over this morning because I was still a little distracted. So, I started looking for other bloggers that were not so easily distracted.

A picture of my little guy earlier in the fall.

Halloween Costume from Soule Mama

Cupcakes from Design Mom

These two fabric swatches from True Up

Old Yarn -- New Pattern

2009-01-15T11:15:00.003-06:00

I guess it is not really "old yarn", but I have had it since my fall trip to New Mexico. I ran into Tapetes de Lana in Mora with the boys (husband and all) in the car. I planned just to take a quick look, but when I saw this yarn and then read the story behind the sheep from which it came, I had to buy some. I had just decided not to buy anymore yarn without a specific pattern. So, already breaking my promise......I bought 5 hanks.

The yarn that I picked out is a blueish green color. It is made from the wool of Ramouillett Sheep. The Ramouillett Sheep originated among the Moors of North Africa during the 14th century. Their distan ancestors accompanied Moorish Conquerers to Spain. The result "The legacy of the Spanish Merino". The Merino sheep were protected by the King of Spain and their fine wool dominated the European trade until 1786 when the King sent a small flock to his cousin at the Ramouillett farm in France. Thus, the breed began.

I have been trying to figure out what to make. I really don't have enough for a sweater, but I have more than enough for a scarf. Then, while working at SWAK a couple of weeks ago, someone asked if we had a pattern for a hooded scarf. I eventually found this in the Winter 2008, Interweave Knits. So, as soon as I finish the scarf I am making with the awesome hand dyed Misti Alpaca my sister in law gave me for Christmas and the Central Park hoodie I have been working on for months now. I am going to start this:

Here is a picture of the great scarf. It is a free pattern we got out at Victory Ranch, Mora, NM. I made it a little thinner so that it would turn out longer. I really like how it is turning out.

Born to Knit

2008-12-30T08:55:00.003-06:00

If you read this blog at all, you know I love to knit. I have had a few knitting ah-ha moments this week that caused pause. The first was Christmas morning. My family has been in transition in the last few years. My parents recently divorced, my sisters and I have fully entered into adulthood and two of us into parenthood. So, there have been some traditions that have been blown from here to there. Imagine my surprise when my childhood Christmas stocking ended up as one of my sisters dogs stocking.......REALLY?! Toward the end of the morning my sister asked me if I would like to keep this stocking. Sure, I replied. Then and only then did I notice what was pictured on it....a lady knitting. I have looked at this so many times and for some reason, I never really thought about it. I was so excited. I was truly born to knit.

Then we were in Sunday school talking about New Year's Resolutions. I have never been big on resolutions, but last year was different. I decided to make a couple. One successful.......one, not so much. The less successful of the two was to Blog everyday. You of all people know this was a struggle to say the least. The other resolution was to only knit with patterns.......this was a result of the boredom I was feeling from almost two years of garter stitch. I am happy to say I have kept this one and this is the result.I made this shawl to wear at the one formal Holiday Party we go to every year. It made my night. I love how it turned out. I even learned to crochet the border.With that, I leave you with this from Lime N Violet....

Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the house,

Not a creature was stirring, except for my spouse.

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care,

“They’ll have toes by morning!” was all she’d declare.

The children were all snuggled with afghans in their beds,

While visions of amigurumi danced in their heads.

Mama knit Sara’s kerchief, and then Bob’s cap,

While I exhorted her to take a nap.

When down from the basement, there arose such a clatter,

I jumped from the sofa, to see what was the matter.

Away to the door, I flew like a flash,

I knew it was the cats, and I’d settle their hash.

The light under the stairs gave off such a glow,

And the noise that arose, caused me a gasket to blow.

What to my wondering eyes should appear,

But three Brother knitting machines, all going in full gear!

There Grandma stood, so lively and fast,

I knew in a moment, all gift worries were past.

As I watched in amazement, her fingers did fly,

and was jerked from my trance with a rousing cry!

“Now Lion Brand! Now Koigu! Now Fleece Artist and Louet!

On Yarn Pirate! On Mimknits! On Noro and Scout!

To the end of the row, now shape that shoulder!

Faster, and faster, those colors need to be bolder!”

As tangles arose like cobwebs in fall,

Grandma twitched each yarn, and saved them all.

Down she dipt in her basket, and snatched up a ball,

Nary a stitch was missed, she’d finish them all!

As I watched in amazement, I heard a metallic “tink.”

And watched as Grandma plucked her crochet hook from the floor with a wink.

She set to binding off everything with such flair,

I thought the sweaters were appearing out of air!

Grandma sewed, and seamed,

Wove ends in and steamed.

Found buttons and zippers, and grafted those toes,

And came out from all of it, smelling like a rose.

The gifts were all wrapped, and under the tree,

So Grandma turned, and blew a kiss to me.

The words drifted down to me, as she went up the stairs and out of sight:

“Merry Knitmas to all, and to all a good night!”

Take a Deep Breath

2008-12-26T11:28:00.003-06:00

The holiday season is coming to an end and I am ready to take a deep breath. Many of you know that one of the many reasons I blog is to have a place to report on all of the beauty and blessings in my life. This is important to me because I spend a good part of most of my days dealing with a family member who is very sick. This Christmas season was not much different than the ones I remember as a child. Up and down, in and out, around and around. The difference this year is that I think this might be the last roller coaster Christmas. I rarely share this part of my life on this blog, but I feel like I owe a bit of an explanation to those of you who read with such loyalty this and have questioned my absence. I am still here. I am taking a deep breath and I will be back with a lot of great creative stuff in 2009. With that.......Merry Christmas.

By the way.....my awesome Sister In Law gave me Anna Maria Horner's new book, Seams to Me. It is as wonderful as I thought it would be. She also made me a great bag....but that is for a future post. Thanks Michelle.

Merry Little Christmas

2008-12-10T10:00:00.004-06:00

We hosted our annual Sunday school Christmas party. This year, being the good Methodist I have become :), I thought we should have more than just food and drink. So, the youth director in me said.....GAMES. I know, cheesy, but it was a lot of fun. Everyone wore their ugliest sweater and we gave awards to the top three. We played dirty Santa with ornaments and we played the bell game. All in all a great night.

An Awesome Giveaway

2008-12-08T11:49:00.002-06:00

I have a couple of dozen blogs that I frequently read....and try to comment on. One of my favorites is Confessions of a Craft Addict. She has such wonderful ideas and has provided me with a lot of inspiration. She is currently hosting a HUGE GIVEAWAY. Check it out! Let me know if you sign up.....I am curious how many I send her way.

Really?

2008-12-02T16:22:00.003-06:00

I just led a lesson at Mom's Group on Hurry Less Worry Less at Christmas and this is all I have done of the boy's handmade Christmas. I can't believe it is December 2nd.

Giving Thanks

2008-12-01T15:40:00.004-06:00

Playdates is having a Sale

2008-11-26T07:30:00.003-06:00

A few years ago I decided that I would get all of my mall Christmas shopping before Thanksgiving. This, along with making many of my gifts, has changed the feel of the Holiday season for the better. I have never really liked crowds and I really don't like being pushed around or "fighting" over the last whatever. So, you can see why the mall around Christmas is not for me.....even with the great sales. (Lucky for me many of the sales begin around Halloween.)

For those of you who will be avoiding the mall on Black Friday, I have a deal for you. EVERYTHING at Playdates Without Pigtails will be 40% off. (Midnight to Midnight, Central Time) Shop, enjoy and I will mail out these orders on Saturday so you should have them by the next week.

Time to get going....I have one more trip to the mall before tomorrow.

Happy Thanksgiving!

The Preparations Have Begun

2008-11-25T20:31:00.001-06:00

Lunch with Carol

2008-11-24T10:44:00.003-06:00

I was talking with a friend yesterday and it came up that a mutual friend had died. This was not a huge surprise because she had been very ill for quite some time. The surprise for me was that I had not found out until almost a month after the fact.

I met Carol at the church where I served as the Children and Youth Minister. I had a lot of experience with youth and hardly any with children. Carol's son was in the 5 year old class. She was intriguing to me for several reasons but most of all I was impressed with her love for her child and her commitment to surround him with the love of a church family. It was several months before I realized that Carol was married. Her husband did not usually attend church with them. This was surprising to me because she was so involved....I don't remember a time that I worshiped when she was not singing in the choir.

Carol and I became very close after she shared with me the struggles she had with her "family of origin" much like the ones I was experiencing. She was the person who helped me see that I could be whole again and that I could be a good mother if I decided to have children. We met several times and discussed these issues at length. I remember confiding in her the trouble I was having getting pregnant and wondering if this was God telling me I would not be a good mother. She basically laughed...........somehow this assured me that things would be okay. I remember meeting up with her for lunch, sitting in the window at Cheevers, telling her I was expecting. I think I was more excited to tell her than my own family because I knew how excited she would be. I remember sitting in the same restaurant several months later with my oldest, just a few weeks old, tucked away at our feet while we ate and admired him. She gave me the confidence I needed to know that I would be a good mother.

I loved to hear stories about her son. He was in elementary school by now and it made me realize how fast time flies. She told me stories of her husband and the highs and lows of starting his own business. It was so obvious how much she loved her family. It was also obvious to me what a strong figure she was in that family. Strong but not over-bearing. This struck me I am sure because I tend to have a strong presence in most situations and not always for the better. Carole also helped me figure out the role I wanted my career to play in my life. She was a brillient attorney that had experience all over the country, but she did not want to be identified as such. She wanted to be a mom. Law was what she did but not who she was. At the end of the day she was a mom and a wife.

Our relationship grew and eventually became very comfortable although I never took it for granted. I knew that much of the happiness and wholeness I felt with my own family came from these meetings with her. Three years ago this New Year's Eve I saw Carol and her husband. It was a beautiful evening...not too cold. We had taken our oldest to the OKC downtown celebration. I saw her from a distance and ran up to say "Happy New Year!" When she turned around, I knew something was wrong. She told me that she had been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. There were not words to express my sorrow and saddness. We hugged, went on, and she spent the next three years fighting for every minute she had with her family.

I will never forget Carol, her smile, her laugh, her voice in the choir. I truly believe God puts certain people in our lives to show us how to love and to be more like the person God created us to be. Carol is one of these people for me.

The Girlie Show was SUCCESSFUL

2008-11-10T21:03:00.004-06:00

Friday night I volunteered and then attended the Girlie Show. It was awesome. I found numerous things to buy, but being a "good girl" I narrowed it down and bought my favorite....a robot clutch by RINK Frivolous Accessories.

There were several vendors that I LOVED....here are a few:
Curly Q Mosaics
Samantha Lamb
Robot Lizz
The HyperBunny
Harrilu

My First Order and a New Hat

2008-11-08T10:02:00.003-06:00

What a great week. I sold and filled my first big order. I did not realize how rewarding it would be not just to sell some items that I created from nothing, but to hear all of the positive feedback. Thank you to all of you who have visited my Etsy shop and left me such kind words.

I have also been enjoying the hat I knit for myself on vacation. I love it. It is hand dyed and hand spun yarn from Madelinetosh. I love her stuff. Check it out.

Election Results from a Mom

2008-11-05T17:33:00.002-06:00

November 5th is here and it seems like yesterday that I thought that this day would never get here. We now know the next leader of our country. I went in to tell my children goodnight one last time before I went to bed and it hit me. We are in for a change. I am not sure how that change will be received or how it will effect my family, but change is coming. I hope the new leadership can serve as an example to my children of what it means to be compassionate and value life.

It is strange to be a parent during such a big election. My perspective has changed so drastically. I no longer take it for granted that things will just work themselves out. I know how formative each year is for these little guys and now we have a new leader for the next four.

Last night I watched CNN and ABC (national and local) coverage. I also live blogged on Gather with a group led by Birdie. That was so much fun. A lot has changed since I used to vote in my elementary school. I voted for Regan.

Signs Around My Neighborhood

2008-11-04T13:11:00.004-06:00

If you have pictures of signs around your neighborhood, leave the link in the comments!

For Whom to Vote?

2008-11-04T12:55:00.002-06:00

I often am conflicted…..not necessarily for what candidate for whom to vote, but from whose perspective to vote. I used to believe that if everyone looked at the issues and voted for the candidate who most met their individual needs, we would have "the best candidate" for our country. Now, as a white middle class 30 year old stay at home mom living in middle America with a Master's degree and an equally educated, professional husband, things do not seem so black and white. Do I vote for the candidate who would be best for me or for my children? Is this the same candidate? Does it even matter?

I have also been raised in the Bible Belt and I have my Master's Degree in Religion. What role does my faith play? Do I vote for the candidate that most meets my needs or do I vote for the candidate that most meets the needs of my "neighbor"?

Here are a few things for which I am certain:
It does matter!
It is not black and white!
We are all children of God!
We are called by God to serve God's people.
It cannot be just about me and my children!

Best Laid Plans

2008-11-04T12:42:00.000-06:00

I am sitting here at my first stop, The Red Cup. This is by far my favorite Coffee Shop in OKC, but today, of all days, it is not going well. The floor has been rotting in the bathrooms ever since I started to frequent this place and apparently they picked today to replace it. All I can hear is the sound of hammering and drilling.

To make matters worse their internet connection is down. I feel like I might as well be on Mars. No campaign talk or news. As soon as I scarf down my favorite, the #2, I am out of here…..skillet cookie and all.

Go Vote

2008-11-04T11:06:00.003-06:00

Today is Election Day. It almost feels like Christmas to me. I love that so many people are thinking about the future of our children. These are issues that plague my mind everyday. It is a little discouraging, to me, that Oklahoma has been left off the list of swing states.....here is my crazy optimism speaking......but, I want to give a little credit to the people who live in the heart of Oklahoma who are working hard for a change that will impact the lives of my children and grandchildren. I live just north of downtown OKC....my neighborhood is littered with campaign signs. The good news is.....this year it is mixed Red and Blue.

So, inspired by Birdie, I am planning to sit in a couple of coffee shops and live blog the thoughts and discussions taking place. My hope is that some of my out of state readers will see that Oklahoma is in this election too. Enjoy!

Grand Opening -- Playdates Without Pigtails

2008-10-31T08:21:00.004-05:00

I am excited to announce that I have opened an Etsy Shop. This is something I have been dreaming of for quite a while. I have always appreciated art, but never saw myself as all that creative. Wow have things changed! In the past 5 years I have been dealing with the illness of my mother and had two children. I found myself looking inward and needing a vehicle to express myself outwardly. It didn't hurt that I lived on the most creative street in OKC. Erin is one of the founders of the Girlie Show, and the other Erin volunteers with OVAC, works with the annual 12X12 art show and teaches art classes at the Oklahoma City Art Museum. JD is a wonderful photographer. This was enough inspiration to even get me going.

I have also been inspired by the Creative Mom Podcast. Amy Cowen is a talented artist and also a mom to two little boys. She motivated me to "do art" in a way that would enhance the lives of my children. I love the CMP because it has a great community of people from across the country who share their work and encourage everyone else.

I began this journey knitting. I signed up for a knitting class and the rest is history. Then, I was inspired by one of the Erin's to design birthday invitations for the boys that reflect their individuality. Meanwhile I had been sketching. At first my sketches were rough.....I hesitate to call them sketches or even doodles, but I kept going and before I knew it I was getting better.

Last Christmas was emotionally challenging due to the side effects of my mother's illness, so I decided to do an experiment. I made almost all of the gifts I gave. This was the best thing I have ever done. I got so much joy from coming up with the ideas and seeing them come to fruition. It helped my knitting too. (I knit four hours a night for about 6 weeks.) The gifts turned out awesome and everyone loved them....even my sister's boyfriend who received a halfway finished gift.

I turned the corner with my art this summer when I began designing a robot card for the oldest's birthday invitation. I couldn't find a robot I liked so I drew one. I loved it.

This began my dream of an Etsy shop, Playdates Without Pigtails, to share these items with others. Right now I only have some paper goods. All of the illustrations are original and digitally colored. I hope to have some knitted items, fabric gifts, and original art.....that will all come. I am very excited and I look forward to sharing this adventure with all of my readers.

The name, Playdates Without Pigtails, came from the fact that I have two boys and two nephew's....I have since had a niece. Anyway, it often seems that all of my friends have boys and there are rarely girls at our playdates. I wanted a general name so I would not have to focus on just one thing. What is important to me, is to create handmade items to share with all of our children with the hope that they will inspire the creativity that lies in all of us. Enjoy!

Missional Extreme Makeover

2008-10-29T12:25:00.003-05:00

Rev. Edward Paup began as the new top executive of the United Methodist General Board of Global Ministries. He officially started his new position September after serving as a Global Ministries director for the past four years.

During the board's October annual meeting, Paup said, "we have the responsibility to work toward the kind of world where poverty can be eliminated."

Like other United Methodist agencies, the General Board of Global ministries will be guided by the denomination's four areas of ministry focus -- leadership development, church growth, global health and ministry with the poor -- over the next four years.

Making the most of "The Studio"

2008-10-29T12:15:00.001-05:00

How I Roll
Originally uploaded by UpNAdam

One of the best things about moving to a new house is that I have a studio above the garage. I love it, but I have not been utilizing it like I thought I would. So, yesterday I got organized and I am LOVING it. It is awesome to spread out and I feel so productive.

Big Boy begs to come out here. That has not worked out.....for every minute he spends "doing art" I spend 10 cleaning up. I need to work on that.

Finley Ela

2008-10-25T11:24:00.004-05:00

I am thrilled to announce the arrival of my first and only niece, Finley Ela. She was born October 23rd at 7:13 am weighing 6 pounds 10 ounces and 20 inches long. She is just adorable. Recognize the hat? I am here to see she has only hand knit garments on that sweet head of hers. Congratulations to her mom and dad! We love you.

Sunday

2008-10-12T15:19:00.003-05:00

I love coming into town on Sunday's when I am here in Las Vegas. It is so peaceful. Almost everyone is with their family enjoying the day. For some reason it just doesn't feel this way in OKC. The hustle and bustle never ends. Sundays are one of the busiest days of the week for us. I love sitting here at the Spic and Span, drinking my coffee, and listening to the unforgettable voices of all the people. Life seems simple.

I am sure this says more about me and my crazy life than it does the locals.

Loving Las Vegas

2008-10-12T14:50:00.003-05:00

We are finally here. Our annual family vacation in the mountains outside of Las Vegas, New Mexico. That is not to say it was easy, but we are here. The little guy was sick last week with some kind of stomach bug and surprise, surprise.....it followed us here via the big boy. This was only discovered after we spent one day in the car and the next in Santa Fe (our usualy OU/Texas venue). He was acting a little fussy on the way back to the cabin, but it was storming and hailing and he had limited sleep. On I-35 almost halfway back, we hear a noise followed by projectile YUCK...really it hit the windshield and everything and everyone in between. Lovely.

We made it back to the cabin, gave the boys a bath, fed them dinner and put them down. Just as I was about to sit down and pull out my knitting....the lights flickered.....then I hear the boys wail. The power was out. Did I mention that the highlight of our Santa Fe trip was not the yarn shop but Whole Foods where I spent quite a chunk of change on meat and produce. Now we have no power. The boys joined us in the portel and fell asleep while we ate in front of the fire place. We finally went to bed....all of us in the master bedroom......stomach flu and all. We slept in the dark until one of the children would wake up scared of the dark and then we would rush to turn on the one remaining flashlight we could find. Adam would get sick. We would clean everything up and then back to sleep for a couple of hours. Luckily, the power did come on along with every light in the cabin sometime in the middle of the night.

I will never have to worry if the boys will remember our family vacations. Stomach ailments and bad wiring tend to follow us wherever we go. It is just a matter of keeping them all straight.

The up side is that it is BEAUTIFUL here. Last year our lives brought us here in September. It was still warm, but we got to see the Ladybugs up on Johnson's Mesa. This year is the latest we have been here as a family. The aspen are beautiful. It is a little warm for me and a little overcast, but generally it is awesome. Here are a few teasers:

FALLing for Oklahoma

2008-10-07T09:51:00.004-05:00

What a great weekend! Friday afternoon we went out to the Parkhurst Pumpkin Patch in Arcadia. It was beautiful. It reminded me of time I spent out at the Frantz ranch growing up. It was open and flat and vast.....well, vast for a 8 year old. The weather in Oklahoma has been absolutely beautiful. It has been sunny and cool. Some years we don't get much more than one or two cool days before the blustering winter takes over. This year is a treasure. It looks like we may have a few more good weeks. Oklahoma is known for going from 100's to 50's in a matter of days. The boys got to run around and play on the hay bales.

We got lost in the corn maze....there should really be a warning sign for mothers with young children who decide to do the maze alone.
As evening approached....a little early I might add, we headed down the road to meet up with some friends at Pops. It was perfect. We sat outside so the kids could run around and we enjoyed our burgers. Of course, I had a diet coke....I know, 300 to choose from and I get the Diet
Coke, but it was good. Adam had his first pop....Grape Soda.
The next morning we woke up bright and early do do the Race for a Cure. More awesome weather and it was so much fun to see the entire city come out for such a great cause. Our family raised over $150.

We had brunch at the Skirvin Hotel. Also great and the boys did so well.

Finally, we headed out to the Head of the Oklahoma, the OCU Regatta.

What a great weekend!

It's Hard to Believe

2008-10-03T09:03:00.003-05:00

Last night I went to my oldest son's first school Open House. The whole family attended.....mom, dad, grandma, grandpa, and even little brother. We walked in to a lot of overwhelmed three year olds, but my son held his head high and took us to the "pool," an area where he had been telling me he napped. When I looked around, I realized why he was drawn to this spot.....it was the reading area. He has always loved books.

Next, we did a scavenger hunt that led us through all of the things he has been learning. I was very impressed. He showed me the life cycle of a catepillar, some yoga poses, sign language, and how he could find specific letters and count. I was most impressed when he took me over to a book and read it to me...with a little help. I almost cried. The idea that he can read at all and some day will be able to enjoy the written word as much as I do. It was amazing.

Pretty in Pink

2008-10-02T13:53:00.002-05:00

In just a few short weeks I will have two sweet boys, two nephews and a brand new NEICE. Can you tell I am excited? I can't wait. I am not really a "girly girl", but let's face it...I grew up in a house of girls and it is just what I know. My sweet sister in law is due November 5th, but I think she will be here on the first. Last weekend we had a baby shower. These are a couple of the gifts I was so excited to give the little sweetie. The dress was my great grandmother Mary's. We found several as we were going through my parent's house in preparation to sell. This was one of my favorites. I love the lace and ruffles and, of course, the eyelet flowers. I think it is precious. I framed it with Pink Polka Dots to match the nursery.

I also made a few little knitted items. The coordinating hat and booties are made from baby alpaca. They turned out so sweet. I also mad the little pink hat as one of many for her tiny little head.
The only thing that even comes close to as wonderful as having two precious boys is having a NEICE.

Let the Countdown Begin

2008-10-01T11:20:00.002-05:00

I am excited to announce that my inconsistent blogging is not in vain. I have been spending every available minute working on a new project. Yes, there is another one. I was a crazy work-a-holic before kids....so, I figure why not do that as a SAHM. I have had this dream since I had the boys that someday I would contribute to the wonderful handmade art and craft that I have found so refreshing. I have spent hours looking at blogs and Etsy looking for handmade items to surround my children in with the idea that the less commercial the better.

I was first inspired by a friend that threw the most wonderful birthday parties for her boys. From the invitation to the thank you notes and everything in between, you could see the personality of the individual child and the family that loved him. I began this tradition with my boys and......well...the rest is history. The more I created, the more inspired I became. One thing led to another and now we are collaborating to open an Etsy Shop. Playdates Without Pigtails will be open in one month, November 1st. We plan to use this venue as a way to share our little inspirations (4 boys between us) and encourage others to think creative and unique when mailing out cards, invitations, announcements, gifts, and much more.

I look forward to sharing this shop with all of my readers.

Oklahoma Live

2008-09-16T09:13:00.001-05:00

I have a confession to make. I am a little ashamed to say this, but I went to the State Fair. I have to say I have watched Martha Stewart enough to say that I fantasize about going to the Fair. People gathered from all over the state to celebrate each others craft, livestock, produce, and even eccentricities. But, for some reason when I go to the fair all I see are the machine made stuffed animals. You too can win these commercial goodies if you spend upwards of $100 on a pop the balloon game. Then you get to the fried everything booths.....yuck! Finally, still looking for the City Arts Building I pass the vendors that sell the T-Shirts and car decals that I always wondered where one would buy such a thing. By now I feel like a total elitist and my interest in all things handmade and home grown is slipping away with the smell of the stale beer at 10:00 in the morning. Not to mention as sure as the sun comes up each morning when the Fair moves into Oklahoma, so does the rain and this day the weather did not disappoint.
Nevertheless, I finally found what I was looking for and stayed long enough to forget the adventure getting there. First I checked out the children and hobby artists exhibition in the City Arts Building. It was really wonderful. I was inspired not just by the wonderful art, but the teachers who inspired many of these young artists. I loved the variety of mediums and the simplicity of many of the pieces.

Next, I headed over to find the fiber goods. I was a little disappointed to find them behind glass, but there were some wonderful pieces. My favorite was this little girl set. There were many pieces that reminded me of pieces my grandmother had around her house growing up. I loved it. Then I found some hand dyed yarn....also lovely. I never found any hand spun although I think some of the hand dyed was also hand spun. Finally, I checked out the canned goods. I did not know you could can such a variety of food. All in all a pretty good day to the trip. Unfortunately as I walked out among the "eccentricities" I quickly forgot the beauty of the handmade. Luckily I took pictures.

19 to Go

2008-09-09T11:15:00.001-05:00

I am very excited that I have been asked to lead the Knitting Group, Knit 1 Give 2 (K1,G2) at my church. One of the projects we work on in the fall is a gift for each of the 70+ homebound members at our church. This year, I am trying to make 10 sets of patterned dishcloths/washcloths. These are a favorite among many and a nice little luxury. I have made one and now I have 19 to go to give 10 sets of 2. I will post more about K1,G2 as the weeks go on. Happy Wednesday!

A Spider and a New Sweater

2008-09-09T10:52:00.000-05:00

Last night I sat and watched this little lady spin her web and the wonder of how she does it was more amazing than ever. The more I knit the more I am amazed at how things are created. When Mr. C called me to the door to see something.....I almost didn't get up. But, I am so glad I did.....when I rushed down the stairs this morning to see if she was still there, she was gone. Not a trace of her art.
Here is the ribbing to my new sweater. Not as perfect as Mrs. Spider's, but it will do.

February Ladies Sweater

2008-09-05T08:22:00.001-05:00

A few weeks ago.....well, maybe months......heck, I can't remember, my Wednesday night SnB group decided to do a sweater. I had pretty much convinced myself that I would not knit garments that I would actually wear out in public, but when I looked at the pattern I couldn't pass it up. So, I bought some O-Wool at Keely's Birthday Sale and got started. (By the way, I LOVE the O-Wool). I am hooked. I love knitting it and it is actually looking fairly wearable. The dove lace pattern is a little messed up in parts, but it still looks pretty good. I am finishing up the edging today and I will do the sleeves next week.

This sweater holds a lot of memories other than being my first. It saw me through the Olympics......there is a huge chunk dedicated to Michael Phelps. It was with me through the DNC, Hurricane Gustav, the nomination of Sarah Palin and a few football games. Now, I am ready to start the Central Park Hoodie. That will be on the needles soon

New Beginnings

2008-09-02T22:00:00.001-05:00

Baby Alpaca's First Milk -- We got to witness this little miracle on our annual trip to Victory Ranch in Mora, NM this past June.

I am here......barely, but here. I am anxiously anticipating fall. So many new paths intersecting here with me and my family.

Today, the older of the "little guys" had his first swimming lesson. It was so precious. He was so excited.....his biggest accomplishment you might ask?....splashing his teacher, Mr. Hong. Eventually, I will have to break his little heart and tell him that they don't promote you for splashing.

I had a full day working on some possible grants and making new contacts for my little business. It is so exciting, but a little overwhelming. When I woke up this morning, I questioned if I would have enough time and energy to pull through. I am thrilled to say, "I did it."

Lately, I have had some discord among some family members who seem to think I am crazy to think that I can have it all, work and serve my community while still raising my children one dirty diaper at a time. I am here to say, I can do it and I am doing.....oh yeah, I will continue to do it.

One more first.....between the Olympics and the Political Conventions I am about to finish my FIRST sweater. So exciting!

Mi Viva Loca

2008-08-29T07:47:00.000-05:00

What a summer! I took an extended hiatus. It was a little unexpected but much needed. So much has happened this summer. We moved, my sweet grandmother died, my mom has needed some special care, my in-laws have purchased a home and are planning to move to town, my dad has sold the house I grew up in, and I started my own business. A lot of change and I don't do change well, but it has all inspired tons of creativity and this is how I have survived.

I can't wait to catch everyone up on my crazy life. It has had its ups and downs, but I have come out it renewed and inspired. For those of you who I read your blogs and listen to your podcasts....I have stayed pretty up to date and I look forward to getting back in touch. Have a great Labor Day Weekend and I will be back on Tuesday....if not before.

I LOVE Oklahoma in the Summer

2008-07-02T15:45:00.001-05:00

Back and Better Than Ever

2008-06-27T13:15:00.000-05:00

So, this is how I left my old house. I small gesture to the new owner to enjoy. We are finally moved into our new house. Things are starting to get back to normal and we are really enjoying life. I have so many plans for this new home. First, I have been working on my "studio." I love it. The boys and I spent some time out their this morning..."letting the creative juices flow". I think they will enjoy it almost as much as I do. I purchased some great mid-century furniture from a good friend. I think we will move it in tomorrow. Anyway, I can't wait to get everything set up. I am recommitting myself to this blog. I have so much to share that I think I will have to take it slow so I do not get overwhelmed. Those of you who have asked where I have been....thanks. It is nice to know people are reading this.

Won't You Be My Neighbor?

2008-05-13T13:25:00.002-05:00

An Era is coming to an end. We are getting ready to move from our first home to a new home. This is a very exciting time, but also a time of sadness. We moved into this house in January of 2004, I think. I know it was January. We had heard great things about our neighborhood, but no one could have prepared me for the wonderful people who surrounded us. They have become more like family than neighbors. We have numerous annual parties like a lot of great streets, but we also have Friday Night Cocktail Hour and countless impromptu nights of advice, venting, and simple laughter. I brought both of my babies home to this house and would not survived new-motherhood had it not been to the love and support and presence of my street. Today our neighbors across the street, know to most of us as "the boys", are closing on the sale of their house. We close at the end of the month. I will never forget this time or these people and since they are more family than neighbor's, I am expecting many more memories in the future.

Better Late than Never

2008-05-13T13:25:00.001-05:00

I was tagged by Knitterista and Living to Tell the Tale to list seven random facts about myself. So, here goes....
1. I do not like waiting in line for food. It makes me feel like cattle. I will wait and wait for a line to go down before I get up at a buffet. This has always been a small issue for me, but lately I just can't stand it. I really don't like to wait on a table, but for a really good meal I will make an exception.
2. I have several (well, how do I put this....most people call them hobbies) that I treat like career's. It makes me happy so....whatever. Knitting. Writing. Photography. Design. Just to name a few.
3. I have anxiety attacks with the slightest bit of change in my life.....Did I mention we are moving?
4. I am obsessed with downtown/urban living. Ask any of my friends....I drive them crazy telling them how much I love living downtown and I will never, never, never move out......I am sure someday I will eat my words. :) And, yes, I live in Oklahoma City......not New York, but it is still urban.
5. I never forward on chain e-mails and I have yet to have anything really bad happen to me as a result.
6. I have a recent obsession with road runners....I don't know why, but I do.
7. Well.....I am really struggling here.....I don't ever wear pantyhose. Yuck... they make me itch. (They make my legs itch....get your mind out of the gutter.)

It is my turn to say TAG to a few bloggers I keep up with:
Aaaaaaaaaaaaaanyhoo
Owen's World
Voice of an Angel
The Edmison Adoption Adventure
Ocean of Creativity
Threaded Thoughts
Madelinetosh