Life...as we know it

Making Mozzarella

2012-01-24T12:48:00.000-05:00

Curtis, going to school and working where he does, has access to lots of things that normal people wouldn't. Namely, all the supplies to make mozzarella cheese. So, this weekend we decided to make some! It was quite fun and exciting, and the resulting cheese was ridiculously good.

We used lots of milk... non-homogenized whole milk...yack! for drinking but perfect for making cheese! We warmed the milk to a certain temperature, kept it there for a while and then added the magic ingredients.

After adding the ingredients and waiting a little while, we had cheese curds! Lots of cheese curds. We let those sit too.

Then we dumped out all the whey and just had the curds left. Did you know that if you cook mozzarella whey you can make ricotta cheese? We want to try it out next time.

Then we hung up the curds in some cheese cloth to let the rest of the whey drain out. After a couple of hours we put the curds in the fridge because it was past midnight and we decided to finish the process the next day.

To turn the curds into mozzarella, we just cut up the curds into small pieces and then added really hot, salty water to them. This cooks to curd and adds salt and flavor.

As the curds cook, you are able to pull and stretch them, making mozzarella cheese. This was really fun to do even though the curds were pretty hot.

And that's all there was to it! We ended up with delicious, fresh mozzarella that we used in lasagna. And we have some left over that we plan on using for pizza soon. Talk about yummy!

Contact paper cover: a tutorial

2012-01-12T14:08:00.000-05:00

I had this pink trunk that I got when I still liked the color pink. Needless to say, my tastes have changed over the years and pink has fallen out of favor with me. So, I had trying to think of easy ways to fix up this trunk. While I was with my mom over Christmas, she gave me the great idea to cover it with contact paper. So she got me some contact paper at her local pharmacy and when I got home, I got to work.

It was pretty simple to cover the trunk. There were some trouble spots, but mostly it was easy, just time consuming.

The supplies I used were contact paper, of course, scissors, a scrapper, a measuring tape and an x-acto knife.

Then I just measured the trunk and then the contact paper, cut it and then put it on the trunk. I started in the middle and smoothed the contact paper out towards the edges to avoid air bubbles.

Then, I just cut around the metal parts of the trunk with the x-acto knife and that's all that was to it!

Cutting around the metal parts took some practice and I messed up a few times but overall, the trunk looks pretty good and I am so happy with how it turned out.

And then, to top it all off, we decided it would make a great coffee table! I have been wanting a new coffee table for ages and the new and improved trunk fits the bill perfectly and is totally our style.
What do you think? Do you have anything you could cover with contact paper? It's an easy and inexpensive solution to covering up something you don't like, don't you think?

PS: We're heading to Ikea this weekend....so excited!!! Any fun weekend plans ahead for you?

Virginia is for Lovers

2012-01-10T10:15:00.000-05:00

We spent our Christmas break at my parents's house up in Virginia. We had such a good time and I had so much fun I stayed an extra week without Curtis!
Besides doing the Christmas/New Years stuff (which was a blast) we also spent a day doing some history stuff. Virginia has so much history and I love going to places and doing things like this and I was super excited to go. We went to Yorktown and Jamestown. I had never been to Yorktown before so it was really fun to see it, and Curtis hadn't been to either so I hope it was fun for him too. And after feeding the seagulls while waiting for the ferry to cross the James River, I knew we were in for some fun!

Curtis and I thought we were all ready for war...

That is until they found out that Curtis was a plunderer and I was a gambler....

Giving George Washington bunnies ears didn't help our case either. That's okay though because those guns they used were really heavy. Doubt I would have been much good in the Revolution.

And now to go back even more in history---

Chief Powhatan set Curtis to work grinding up some meal while I just looked on. It was nice to have him do all the cooking.

Then the Virginia Company decided to show up! "In 1607, we sailed the open sea..." And trust me, sailing across the Atlantic in these boats wouldn't have been as glamours as it looked in Pocahontas. They are a lot smaller than you'd think.

Curtis would have been too tall for everything, even the beds!

But we did try some armor on and I was all set to go. Curtis's however was a little small. I guess that's what happens when the dress-up stuff is meant for kids.

And of course Curtis managed to find some form of bowling. He can do that anywhere, even in Jamestown.

I like Pocahontas the best though, so I decided to go "Just around the river bend!" Just like she would...

Replacements

2012-01-09T11:49:00.000-05:00

Shortly after moving to North Carolina, my bike got stolen. It was really my fault, since I never got another lock just for my bike. So, when Curtis went to school, it was left unlocked. Living where we do, unlocked things obviously get stolen. Sadly, so do locked things. About a month or so later, Curtis's locked up bike got stolen. Since then, we had been bike-less and sad about it.
However, we are bike-less no more! My parents got both of us new bikes for Christmas and we are loving them! I love having a girl's bike instead of a boy one and Curtis likes being able to ride to school again.

We did quite a bit of riding in VA and are looking forward to being able to bike places instead of drive. Hopefully the rain will stop soon so we can...

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-22T09:23:00.003-05:00

Merry Christmas, friends! I hope you are as excited about this weekend as I am, and I hope your day is as wonderful as can possibly be!

Christmas Cat

2011-12-16T10:20:00.000-05:00

The other day, Curtis and I were wrapping gifts to send off to family and, of course, Scarlet wanted to help. She just loves when we start curling the ribbon, and is oh-so "helpful" when she starts playing with it..... After she had carted off some of the ribbon, I decided to decorate her myself. Scarlet needs to be festive too, right?

PS: It's kind of hard to take a picture of a cat while she's playing...ha ha. I thought this was a cool picture anyway.

She was a really good sport about it, surprisingly. As long as she couldn't see the ribbon, she left it alone. It was only when the curly part fell in front of her that she tried to chew it off. I thought she was extremely cute but had to cut it off because we didn't want her eating it.

Are you all ready for Christmas? I'm almost done with my gifts. Just have a few more to make and a birthday present to get for Curtis...

Handmade Gift Exchange: the result

2011-12-08T13:57:00.001-05:00

I don't know if you remember when I suggested signing up for the handmade gift exchange hosted by Linda over at Craftaholics Anonymous, but I did and I signed up for it myself. And, crazy enough, it turns out that not only did I get paired up with a married student at BYU but Linda who puts this exchange together is actually in my parents's Branch...how crazy is that?

Crazy stuff aside, here's what my partner sent me---

It's too bad I don't have pierced ears, but I'm more than sure I can find someone who will love these earrings. I love this pins though. I put pins on pretty much every sweater I wear and so it's nice to have some more to add to the collection.

And here is what I made for her---

I hope she likes it!
This was a fun thing to do and I just might have to make a tradition out of it.

Christmastime is here

2011-12-07T13:14:00.000-05:00

Raise your hand if you're excited for Christmas (my hand is raised...way up high). Honestly, I haven't been this excited for Christmas in years, and I mean years. Maybe it's because I don't have to get through finals before I can actually get excited about the holiday. It's the first time that has happened in 5 years.

And before I had finals to worry about, Christmas meant Carol Grams with the Music Masters. Carol Grams=singing the same songs over and over, everyday to earn money for our Hawaii trip. I got to do this one for 3 years. And seriously, it has taken me until now to get over it. Yes, I finally like Christmas music again.

Maybe I'm also excited for Christmas because we got our very first real tree. I like smelling it everyday and turning the lights on every night. Every home needs a live tree. They just make this time of year feel like Christmas.

Perhaps I'm excited because A Charlie Brown Christmas came on TV on Monday and that movie always make me feel like a kid again.
Or maybe because Christmas is on Sunday this year and that just makes me so excited and happy. Christmas should always be on Sunday, don't you think?

Many of our decorations are homemade...I never had many so last year I decided to make some.

Yes, this was yesterday.

Whatever the reason though, I am thoroughly excited for Christmas. We have decorated and gifts are starting to be bought and made. True, the chances of snow here in North Carolina are pretty much zero, but I am still dreaming of a white Christmas and counting down the days.

Duckpin bowling?...Ya, that's right...

2011-12-06T10:30:00.000-05:00

I'm really bad at taking pictures, let's just be honest here. So, I have no pictures from Thanksgiving. To sum it up though, my mom and I did the cooking. It was fun and funny and we laughed...a lot. I was also sick, as usual, but we managed to pull together a scrumptious dinner. Way to go, Mom!

A couple of days after Thanksgiving, we all went duckpin bowling. Now this, I did get pictures of. It was so much fun and surprisingly hard. Oh, and don't worry, I'm as bad at this type of bowling as I am at regular bowling. The only perk to duckpin bowling is that no one does really well. That way I didn't feel too bad when I got the lowest score every game.

The lane is the normal bowling length, but ya, the pins are that small.

And, ya, the balls are that small too...see the challenge? At least you get 3 rolls in this game...

Woot! Woot! Go Curtis!

My sister was hilarious to watch. She just chucked it down the lane as hard as she could. It worked...some of the time...

Ya, it's a challenging game, duckpin bowling but it's a lot of fun. Plus, the alley is super old school. You have to keep track of your own score and clear your own pins with a button...awesome! Curtis and I plan on making duckpin bowling a must every time we go to VA. They don't have any down here in NC, sadly.

PS: Remember the wishbone last year? Ya, well, take that Curtis! No more good luck for you! Boo-ya!!

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-23T12:59:00.000-05:00

We'll be heading up to Virginia in just a couple of hours for our Turkey Day fun! What are your plans? Are you hosting? Cooking? Travelling? Eating...wait a sec, I think we'll all be doing that one! Whatever your plans are, I hope you have a fabulous day!

Sweater: Target, Christmas gift
Shirt: Gap, on sale $6
Pants: Aeropostale, on sale, $12

And I hope Scarlet does okay with us being gone...I'm sure glad we found someone who has cats to watch her for us. I'm nervous about leaving her all alone. She'll be fine, right?

Have a Happy Turkey Day!!

Silhouette Portraits: a tutorial

2011-11-22T13:13:00.000-05:00

I love silhouette portraits. I think they are cute, simple and beautiful. So, yesterday I decided to make my own. I've been wanting to do this for a while now, but I've had other craft things to do lately. I was excited to finally be able to get around to doing it.
It's really easy to make your own silhouette portraits. Here's how I did it---

First, I looked for some pictures to use on the computer. I'm no artist and I figured tracing would be the easiest way to draw our faces. It took me a while to find some good side profile pictures (you could always just take some pictures for this purpose), but I eventually did. I simply magnified them to the size I wanted and then traced right off of the computer screen...without pressing too hard, of course.

Then I used these patterns to cut out the silhouettes onto black paper. I just taped my patterns to the black paper and cut them both at the same time (just like you would with a sewing pattern and fabric)...it's a lot easier to be more exact that way.

Then, I cut some white paper to fit into my frames and taped the silhouettes onto it.

I spray painted my inexpensive Ikea frames black and put the silhouettes into them after the frames had dried.
And that's it! That's all it takes to make your very own, personalized silhouette portraits! I even made one of Scarlet...as of now she's our only child...ha ha ha.

I hung them up on our wall this morning. Don't they look great? I'm really excited they turned out so well.

Sweater: H&M, sister hand-me-down, free
Shirt: Target, on sale, $5
Pants: Aeropostale, on sale, $12

Oh man, who is excited for Thanksgiving?!? I sure am. We head up to VA tomorrow...woot! woot! I talked to my mom last night and she said she had gotten a big bird...bring on the turkey!

Crunchy leaves=fun, right?

2011-11-21T13:25:00.000-05:00

It definitely doesn't feel like late November today. In fact, it feels more like late August. It's kind of wonderful but at the same time confusing because I'm used to it being pretty cold, if not snowing, by this time of year.

So, I didn't get even half of what I wanted to get done this weekend done. Is that a surprise? No, not really. That's okay though. As long as everything ends up clean before we leave on Wednesday, I'm all good. Because seriously, is there anything worse than coming home to a messy house? Maybe wet socks, but not much else.

Sweater: American Eagle, sister hand-me-down, free
Shirt: Gap, clearance
Pants: Gap, clearance, $8
Shoes: TOMS, gift
Flower pin, J.Crew, clearance, $2

I do have some fun craft projects/decorating ideas that I want to work on today. If they turn out, I'll share them with you, so keep your eyes out for some crafty fun in the future!

PS: Do you ever have those days where you just can't help cutting your head off every time you try to take pictures of yourself with the timer? Ya, today was definitely one of those days for me.

A little bit of this and that

2011-11-18T15:24:00.000-05:00

Oh man, I'm super excited for Thanksgiving. I'm looking up some recipes to make (old and new), as we speak! Funny that I'm so excited since I only realized Thanksgiving was next week, like, two days ago. What can I say though, it is one of my favorite holidays (besides Halloween, of course).

Sweater: Gap, free, sister hand-me-down
Shirt: Gap, clearance, $6
Pants: Aeropostale, on sale, $12

So it looks like I've got a weekend of chores ahead of me...oh boy. I get to start off the "fun-filled" weekend with a trip to Walmart. Scarlet is out of food and so are we. I don't like the Walmart closest to us though. It's always disorganized and they never have everything in stock. What's with stores these days, I mean seriously?!?

While I was taking pictures today, Scarlet decided to check it out outside. Sometimes I feel bad when she does this because it is like she's just longing to go outside. Then I remember how crazy drivers are in this state and I know we're only doing her good by keeping her inside.
She's gotten so big though! I think she's more of a big girl cat than a kitten now. That makes me a little sad but she is oh-so beautiful.

Penguin Pillow: a turtorial

2011-11-17T16:21:00.000-05:00

If you haven't noticed, I really like making pillows. They are an easy and inexpensive way to change up your decor. As such, I make them often.
I also have a thing for penguins. It's a long story why, so we'll just leave it at I love penguins and got an idea to try and make a little pillow putting applique-like penguins on it. You can do this with absolutely any animal you like. Here's how I did it---

First I drew some penguin patterns. Tip for ya, I just looked up some pictures up online and pretty much traced them right off the computer. I'm no artists and this worked best for me.

Then, I used the patterns to cut out the fabric and the felt that I used as a backing for the penguins so they stick out from the pillow (this is totally optional but since I had two different fabrics for the penguins this made it easier to sew as well as added some dimension).

Then I sewed the penguins onto some plain white fabric for background. I did this really slow to make sure I followed the outline of the penguin. The back shows how well, or not, that I succeeded in doing this.

Then I cut some fabric strips for a border and to make the pillow bigger. I sewed these on, sewing the shorter side first.

After getting all the sides sewn on, I cut a piece of fabric for the back and finished the pillow just like I did this one... easy peasy!

When it's all stuffed and done, it looks like this! Isn't it cute? Honestly, I was happily surprised at the outcome of this craft project. I always have these ideas, and just wing-it when I make them, never knowing it they will turn out. I've been very lucky so far and they have!

Sweater: American Eagle, on sale, gift
Shirt: H&M, too old to remember
Pants: Aeropostale, on sale, $12

Today was a gloomy day, perfect for crafting. I think I might make more of these pillows with other animals or letters. They are kind of fun and the perfect personalized touch to any decor.
Scarlet was glad when I was done...she doesn't like when I sew because I don't pay attention to her...ha ha ha...what a silly cat.

When did that happen?

2011-11-16T14:23:00.001-05:00

I've had a surprisingly busy week so far...hence the lack of posting. Mostly I've been working on sewing projects and cleaning. Isn't it amazing how quickly a little apartment can get dirty? Honestly, it always surprises me. Well, I guess that happens when I get behind on the dishes because the garbage disposal is clogged...any suggestions on how to fix that?

So did you realize that Thanksgiving is next week? Ya, that one totally snuck up on me...I realized on, like, Tuesday that it is next week. Don't get me wrong, I'm totally excited. I just can't believe it is here already!
What are your Thanksgiving plans? We are heading up to VA to my parents's place where I'll probably do most of the cooking and I'm totally okay with that. I love cooking, especially Thanksgiving food...bring on the turkey!

Sweater: American Eagle, sister hand-me-down
Shirt: Gap, clearance
Pants: Gap, clearance, $12
Horse pin: gift

So last Friday the last Harry Potter movie came out on DVD and to celebrate such a wonderful event, Curtis and I are having a HP movie marathon. We just watched Order of the Phoenix last night and I'm uber excited to watch the new one again when we get to it (since I've only seen it once).
Mind you, watching the movies just isn't as amazing as reading all the books like I did this summer, but it's still fun and I love getting me a HP fix.

PS: I finally exercised today...woot woot! It felt good but I think I'm going to be sore tomorrow...ha ha ha

11.11.11---How cool is that?

2011-11-11T14:48:00.000-05:00

Sweater: Target, Christmas gift
Shirt: Gap, clearance, $7ish
Pants: Aeropostale, on sale, $12

Tonight Curt and I are going on a date...woot woot! It's been a while since we went out to dinner (low date night funds) but I feel like splurging to I'm making him take me out...ha ha ha.

Seriously though, I'm excited! I told him to pick where we go because I could honestly eat anything, as long as I'm not cooking.

I tried to look extra nice today though I'm not sure I did a very good job...oh well, I like this shirt and sweater combo. Do you have any fun Friday night/weekend plans?

PS: When the wind blows, it looks like it's raining leaves...so pretty.

PPS: Happy 11.11.11!

Growing pains

2011-11-10T14:19:00.000-05:00

This is me and my hair about a year ago. Obviously this was on Thanksgiving, so not quite a year. But, I had my hair this short and even shorter for several months until December and then I started growing it out.

This is my hair now, after close to a year of zero haircuts. It's kind of weird to have hair again and sometimes I really miss the ease of short hair. I mean, I have to fix my hair like everyday because of course, it is neither straight nor curly. I am excited to have long hair again though (yes, I'm growing it long). While I loved having uber short hair, I really missed being able to play with long hair and french braiding it. Also, short hair is a lot colder than long hair is...let me tell ya...beanies became my friends last year.

I look at the pictures from last year though and really miss it. But, having short hair, while being a lot less maintenance, does have its drawbacks. I had to get my hair cut every 4-5 weeks when it was that short and well, that gets expensive. Plus, sometimes little kids thought I was a boy. And while they were just little, it still wasn't fun having a kid wonder about my gender.

Shirt: Gap, clearance, $5ish
Undershirt: got from when I was a bridesmaid at my best friend's wedding
Pants: Gap, clearance

So while I have a serious love/hate relationship with my hair and some days just want to cut it all off I'm going to grit my teeth and deal with it because I'm excited to have long hair again...someday. Seriously, it takes a long time to grow when it was only like an inch long!

Which do you prefer to have...long or short hair? To be honest, I can't decide which I like better...

We've got one crazy cat...

2011-11-09T14:41:00.000-05:00

Sweater: Target, Christmas gift
Shirt: H&M, on sale, $5ish
Pants: Gap, clearance, $8

Guess who decided to join me again today? Yup, Scarlet. She's taken to following me around all day and sitting on my lap. Sometimes it makes it difficult to get stuff done, but she is sure good at keeping me warm!

Have a mentioned that she is pretty much a crazy cat? Not only can she chase a shoelace around me endlessly, but she also plays with our "mirror cat" that I've named Jane and her own tail. Ya, she like to visit Jane in the mirror we have in our bedroom and she'll go behind the mirror, see her tail coming out the other end and attack it. I think she forgets it actually belongs to her. Maybe she thinks it's Jane's?

I just can't seem to find the motivation

2011-11-08T15:39:00.001-05:00

Sweater: Gap, clearance, $10
Shirt: Chelsea Sky brand, other than that...no idea
Skirt: Target, Christmas gift
Tights: kind of super old
Shoes: TOMS, gift
Necklace: My sister made it!

Every morning I plan on exercising and every morning I succeed in not exercising. I seem to be lacking some serious motivation when it comes to the exercising category. What do you do to get yourself willing to exercise? What do you like to do for exercise? I like to do this workout, but maybe I need to try something new?

PS: I love when Scarlet comes and takes pictures with me and gives me kisses. She's not too shabby at posing either, is she?

It's only a matter of time

2011-11-07T15:29:00.000-05:00

Does switching on and off day light savings time ever leave you feeling confused? It sure does for me! I mean, I have no problems adjusting to the hour change, it's the light change that just makes me feel so disoriented. Honestly, I feel like I don't know what time it is for like two weeks! I think we should just stick to one time...really, what's the point of changing these days? I think they (yes, the almighty "they") are just trying to play mind tricks on us...

Sweater: Gap, clearance, like $3
Shirt: Target, on sale+tax free, $4
Pants: Aeorpostale, on sale, $12

At least the weather is super nice today so I can actually open the windows and try to warm up our icebox of an apartment. Seriously though, it feels more like September than November...and I'm totally okay with that.

PS: If you're interested, don't forget to sign up for the handmade gift exchange today.

Sign up today!

2011-11-07T10:27:00.002-05:00

Linda over at Craftaholics Anonymous is hosting a handmade gift exchange. How cool is that?!? I just signed up for it because it sounds like so much fun and thought I would share the idea with you.
Today (Nov. 7) is the last day to sign up, so if your interested, head over there all quick-like and sign up!

Handmade gift exchange sign up

I think I need a nap

2011-11-04T14:25:00.000-04:00

My goodness, it has certainly been a long week for me and I am sure glad it is Friday. Scarlet has taken to crying and scratching outside our bedroom door in the mornings. She has done this for a while, but this week she decided to get going at it around 5:30 every morning and not giving up until someone got up. Days are a lot longer when they start at 5:30. And if this is just a precursor for what kids are going to be like, I'm so not ready for children!

The leaves are changing colors with full force here and it is so beautiful. Since there are trees, like, everywhere, the colors are fantastic. Just driving on the highway gives the chance for a pretty view. There are some crazy red trees across the street from our apartment...they are gorgeous!

Sweater: Target, $15
Shirt: Target, on sale, $5
Pants: Aeropostale, on sale, $12
Shoes: slippers, stocking stuffer (woot, woot!)

It's raining like crazy today, seriously. I don't think it is going to stop any time soon...even more reason to take a nap, right?!?

Can you believe it's November?

2011-11-01T14:41:00.000-04:00

So, just in case you were wondering, yesterday I was an Archaeologist. I worked with what I had and I guess I'm really just an Archaeologist at heart!

It's sunny outside today, thank goodness! Yesterday was a gloomy and rainy Halloween and I was cold pretty much all day long. Today, Scarlet and I decided to take advantage of the sun and sunbathe together by our back door.

What kind of person are you when it comes to clothes? Do you get knew clothes every season? Or, do you, like me, wear your clothes until they fall apart? Seriously, I have some clothes that I got back when I was in High School...not very many but I do have some. Most of my older clothes come from my first few years of college and boy am I glad I keep them. Ya know, when you don't have much money to spend on clothes it's nice to find some old stuff that you haven't worn in a long time. That, and it's nice to know that clothes sometimes last for what seems like forever...seriously!

Sweater: Gap, clearance, gift
Shirt: J.Crew, sister hand-me-down
Pants: Gap, clearance, $12
Shoes: Gap, clearance, $5

I like to get good use out of my clothes and to me, buying a whole new wardrobe ever season is so not worth it. I wear what I like, regardless of current "fashions" and supplement what I've got with things I need as the occasion arises. And when I do get new clothes, I buy clearance (as I'm sure you've noticed). Honestly, can't remember the last time I bought something full price. It really just makes more sense to wait for something to go on sale than to buy it full price. I guarantee you, that sweater or shirt or whatever you want will go on sale in the next month. Trust me, it's worth the wait!

PS: Have you listened to Coldplay's Mylo Xyloto yet? I'm listening to it now. It's pretty amazing...you should check it out!

Happy Halloween! + Can you guess?

2011-10-31T10:45:00.000-04:00

Today is Halloween...Yay! Halloween is one of my favorite holidays. Not really sure why, but I love it. I love the decorations, I love the candy...it's just an all-around good holiday that makes anybody feel like a kid again, right?
On Friday we had a Church Ward party that Curtis and I dressed up for. I used only things from my wardrobe so I thought I would post about it to show that you really can come up with a costume from what you've already got.

Scarf: etsy,com, around $1
Shirt: Forever 21, on sale, $8??
Pants: Gap, clearance, $12
Belt: Gap, clearance, gift
Boots: Target, clearance, $8

Can you guess what I am? Nothing too creative but I worked with what I had and managed to come up with a costume, all for free! So if you need a last minute costume, rummage around in your closet...you never know what you'll be able to come up with!

PS: Scarlet makes the perfect Halloween accessory, doesn't she?

A Two-fer

2011-10-27T14:46:00.001-04:00

Sweater: Sister hand-me-down
Shirt: H&M, clearance, $5
Pants: Gap, clearance, $8

Do you like the pillow I made? It was my latest quick sewing project to go with the awesome retro green chair I'm sitting on. My mom got it for us when they went on sale at Lowes. And yes, it is an outdoor chair. That's beside the point though...making pillows is easy-peasy and today I'll show you how!

First, you need to gather your supplies...some fabric, matching thread, yo-yo's and stuffing.

***I didn't make my yo-yo's, they came courtesy of my oldest sister. If you need to make your own, click here for an easy step-by-step tutorial on how to make them.

After you have your supplies, simply cut your fabric to the desired size (mine was 20x20).

Then, pin your yo-yo's to wherever you want them on your pillow. You can put them anywhere and use as many as you want, really. After placing them, sew those yo-yo's on making sure you only sew through the backside of the yo-yo.

Then, you put the right sides of the fabric together and sew around all 4 sides, making sure to leave a 2-3 inch opening so you can flip it right-side-out and stuff it.

***If you use a pillow form and not stuff, you might want a bigger hole. I'm poor and can't afford pillow forms so I only use stuffing.

Then, you trim the corners, turn it right-side-out and stuff away! You can stuff as much or as little as you want. I had limited stuffing so I kind of ended up with a flatter pillow.

Finally, you sew up the hole by hand or on a sewing machine, and make sure the pillow isn't too lumpy by flattening out the stuffing as needed.

And voila! You are done. Easy, huh? I love making pillows. They add character and a personal touch to your couch or chair. Plus, they are cheap to make because you can really use whatever fabric you have around. This pillow probably cost me around $3. The fabric was from my favorite scraps section at the store, stuffing is pretty affordable and the yo-yo's were free. Way better than buying one of those expensive store pillows, right?!?

My awesome, outdoor, metal chair looks so much more inviting now, doesn't it? Yay!

Ticket to ride

2011-10-26T14:58:00.000-04:00

A couple of Saturdays ago, Curtis and I went out on a pedal boat at Lake Johnson. We had been wanting to do this for quite some time but we always came up with a reason not to. The weather was too hot...I was tired...we didn't have the money.....something always stopped us from going.
We went to the lake just to feed the ducks, and randomly and unexpectedly ended up having a blast out on the pedal boat. The weather was perfect and it was so much fun. Yay! for spontaneity!

Some of the leaves were changing colors...it was pretty.

Shirt: J.Crew, sister hand-me-down
Pants: Gap, clearance, $12
Shoes: TOMS, gift

We quickly realized that we did a whole lot of pedaling for a little amount of slow movement. It was cool though, there is a part of the lake that goes under the road and we totally did it even though we had to duck to make it under...ha ha.

It sure was beautiful. I definitely want to go again and maybe rent a different boat like a canoe. And I really want to take the sailing classes they do in the summer. Wouldn't that be awesome; learning how to sail? There was a guy out the same day, sailing, and he was totally legit...seriously...

PS: Any good ideas for a cheap/free, last minute Halloween costume? Both Curtis and I are on the search for one before Friday...eek!

"Be your best self, but be yourself."

2011-10-25T13:02:00.000-04:00

There's a quote that I heard at the Time Out for Women this past weekend for you. It was originally said by Sister Hinckley and was relayed to us by her daughter, who was one of the speakers. Isn't it an awesome quote? I think it just might be my new theme for life...ha ha.

One of the perks about going home is I can get all sorts of free stuff that either my mom or sister don't want anymore. I got some food storage stuff as well as an amazing new kitty pooper-scooper and lots of new clothes...all for free!

My sister had 2 bags full of clothes that she was getting rid of and I went shopping in them! Aren't hand-me-downs just the greatest? I know as kids we all hated them, but now that I am older and a whole lot poorer, I gladly and excitedly welcome the hand-me-downs.

Sweater: Gap, free, sister hand-me-down
Shirt: Gap, clearance, around $5
Jeans: Gap, clearance, gift
Shoes: TOMS, gift
Headband: H&M, super old, gift

It's also nice that my sister buys lots of nice clothes, wears them once and then never again. Seriously, some of the clothes I took were pretty much brand new...one even still had the tag on it! I got me a nice stack of pretty new clothes and now I'm totally set; probably until Christmas. Yay! for sisters and their hand-me-downs!

"Curse you tiny toilet!"

2011-10-24T12:17:00.000-04:00

Can you name that movie that my title comes from? It is one of Curtis's favorites and one we quote a lot around here.
I was absent for a week...sorry. I went up to VA to visit with my mom and sister and to go to Time Out for Women that was going on in Richmond this past weekend. I had a great week and ended up being too busy to blog even though I intended to. We did all sorts of fun things like seeing movies, shopping, picking out a wedding dress and, of course, being spiritually uplifted at the Time Out for Women.

There were some awesome speakers that we got to listen to, and Jenny Oaks Baker performed on Friday. She is such an amazing violinist and has a cool background and story. I was very inspired this weekend and hope to try to be better and to become more of what I want to be (that was the theme).

Skirt: Target, really old, gift
Sweater: Target, $15
Shirt: Target, on sale, $4

I'm back home now and have some blog catching up to do! I'm also phone-less because I always forget things when I travel and, of course, I left my phone at my parents's house in VA. So I guess I'll just be a little disconnected from the world until I get it back. And you know what, I'm totally okay with that.

PS: Coldplay's new album Mylo Xyloto came out today! I'm listening to it now and it's a good one folks! I love me some Coldplay.

Fried Goodness

2011-10-14T15:19:00.000-04:00

Oh my goodness! Did you catch The Chew today? It was a fried foods special and Mario Batali made these Fried Zeppoles that look positively delicious! I think I just might want to try them out sometime soon. I always like me some good friend food. That just might explain why I want to eat at Bojangles, like, everyday...hmmmmm....it is all making sense now. I guess I am officially a true Southern girl!

I love watching The Chew everyday. It lets me get a little taste of the Food Network without having to pay for cable. Though I still miss HGTV and often wish I could watch it and be inspired with new ways to decorate our apartment. Dear Genevieve how I miss you!!!

Sweater: Roxy, gift
Shirt: Target, on sale, $5
Pants: Gap, clearance, $12??

Man, I am so excited it's Friday. I don't really have any weekend plans but the weather is supposed to be fantastic this weekend and the State Fair is in town (speaking of fried food...) so good things could happen. Do you have any fun weekend plans?

Sad, but true

2011-10-13T15:55:00.000-04:00

Betcha can't guess what I did on this lovely, sunny afternoon?......

Yup, that's right, the dishes. Sadly, the ever-growing pile of dirty dishes could no longer be ignored. Usually, I'm really good at staying on top of them and doing the dishes daily but not this week.

Shirt: Gap, clearance, gift.
Pants: Target, clearance, $8

At least Curtis had done half of them last night so I only had another half to do...thank goodness! Sometimes I really miss having a dishwasher.....

30 days later

2011-10-10T13:18:00.000-04:00

I did it! I made it through the 30 for 30 challenge. To be honest, I really didn't think I was going to be able to come up with 30 different outfits from only 30 pieces of clothing but I did and it has really changed my outlook on my wardrobe and how I dress. Here are a few things I learned from this challenge...

1. I really don't need all the clothes that I have. It is really amazing how many different ways you can mix and match just 30 articles of clothing.
2. I also realized what few clothing items I would like to add to my wardrobe. Since I went no-shop for the past 30 days, I've actually realized what clothing items I would get good use out of. For example, I could really use some nice blouses. I have plenty of t-shirts but very few blouses.
3. Accessories are amazing and can add so much to an outfit! I love tights and scarves and bows and flowers and really whatever else you can think to accessorize with.
4. Finally, and I think the biggest thing that I "learned" from doing this challenge is that I actually really enjoy the clothes I have. Doing this challenge made me open up my eyes to the options I have with my clothes. I've learned to think, "What could I do today with the clothes I have," instead of, "Oh no, not these lame clothes again/I have nothing to wear." This challenge helped me to see the opportunities in clothing rather than the set-backs.

I'm really glad I tried this out because not only has it been budget-friendly but I actually like my clothes again and that is also helpful when you don't want to spend a lot of money on clothes. I really would recommend you try out the 30 for 30 challenge. If you are tired of your clothes or think that they are boring, try this out. It will really change your perspective on what you were. Honestly, I used to dread getting dressed everyday and now I look forward to it!

One last thought...I've been thinking about what I'll do, as far as blogging goes, now that I'm done with the challenge. I've been thinking about keeping up the "fashion blog" idea. I mean, I know squat about fashion but I do know what I like and I know how to find good deals on clothes and I think it could make for a fun blog. Plus, I like blogging regularly and talking about the nonsense that is my life. So here's the question, what do you think? Should I give it a try?

The end.

2011-10-08T21:23:00.001-04:00

Day 30

I did it! I made it to the end of my 30 days. I'm not going to talk about how it went in today's post; I'll save that for Monday. For now, I just want to celebrate being done and enjoy the fact that I can wear whatever clothes I want to tomorrow!

Today, Curtis and I cut and vacuum-packed the cheese he made yesterday. Yes, he made more cheese...we really have more cheese than we know what to do with, but that's okay with me, it's free! Anyway, I went with Curtis to finish it up and it was pretty cool to see where they make the cheese and the little dairy plant they have there on campus. And now I can say that I have helped make cheese! Well, sort of...if you count cutting and vacuum-packing as part of the cheese making process.

We also watched Star Wars tonight. Can I just say that those movies are awesome? We watch Episode IV: A New Hope and even though it was made back when computer graphics and special effects were like nil, it is still an amazing movie. And the music...what could be better?!? We've decided we're going to watch them all, because it's really just necessary after watching one. I'm excited. I feel like this just might bring back the old tradition my brother started of watching a Star Wars movie every Sunday and justifying it by applying to to the Gospel. It totally works, people!

I should be outside

2011-10-07T15:38:00.000-04:00

Day 29

Today is one of those days that you just can't spend inside. It's gorgeous; it's perfect, it's so beautiful I'm gonna die! (Can you name the movie I stole that from and modified just a bit?) I'm just itching for Curtis to get home so we can go lounge in the sun, maybe play some croquet and perhaps even visit the Farmer's Market.

Today while sitting out, soaking up some sun and in the process drying my hair I decided to read my Southern Living magazine. While perusing, I came across this quote:

"Fall is a Southerner's reward for having survived summer."

I read it, smiled, laughed and then said to myself, that's totally true! I have been loving this Fall season and weather more than I could imagine. I think it is the perfect reward to the summers we have to live through here in the South.

Oh man, I've worn tights twice this week and have loved it! I am finally getting to wear the tights I got for $0.97 at Gap this summer...woot, woot! I love tights, especially when they are uber cheap!

Do you have any fun plans for the weekend? We are thinking about taking a paddle boat out at Lake Johnson but nothing is for sure yet. Other than that I've got nothing planned. Maybe I'll do the cleaning I was supposed to do today. Then again, with weather like this, maybe I won't.....

An afternoon at the Lake

2011-10-06T17:32:00.000-04:00

Day 28

Today Curtis came home a little early and so we spent the afternoon at Lake Johnson. We love going to the lake and the weather was so beautiful today that it made for a wonderful afternoon! We had some uber stale Cheerios that we took to feed the ducks/geese and it was madness! There are a lot of birds at this lake and when you start feeding them, they pretty much go crazy, seriously.

There were ducks and geese everywhere and we just couldn't feed them fast enough. Some even got really close and I'm sure you can tell from that guy in the top left. We also found a Aflac duck! We were looking for turtles too but none came.

I love me some trees!

We also walked around a bit and just enjoyed the afternoon sunshine being outside. I soaked me up lots of Vitamin D and even stored some up for future cloudy days...that is if you can store it up...

On a funnier note, yesterday after going grocery shopping we had to get some gas. Our car was grossly dirty due to the large number of squirrels that live and are currently gathering in the tree that we park under. We have been a little embarrassed about this but can't really afford a car wash (not too mention it probably wouldn't even really clean the car). So, being the poor people that we are, we used the squee-gee to pretty much clean our entire car. Ya, we're awesome like that. Hey, at least our car doesn't look like a squirrel poo target now.

I feel silly, oh so silly...

2011-10-05T14:31:00.001-04:00

Day 27

So I took a nice bunch of pictures today, only to realize that I didn't have the memory card in my camera. To top it all off, I no longer have the cord that directly connects my camera to the computer. Needless to say, I was bummed when I had to take pictures all over again. I mean, I feel silly enough doing it once and today I had to do it twice!

That almost beats yesterday, when I was sitting and "posing" for the camera, not realizing that I had changed it from interval shooting and it wasn't actually taking any pictures of myself...ha ha. Man, I'm on a role lately.

So one of the things I've noticed since moving here to Raleigh is that we get a lot of free stuff. We got free gas last month and we get free food pretty often from the lab Curtis works in. Plus, Curtis makes us cheese so we get free cheese and sometimes he even gets gift cards! And then on Monday, when we went to Chipotle, we got free Push-Pops from some Target people. We have gotten a lot of free stuff since moving here. Don't you just love free stuff?!?

I have to go grocery shopping today...boo. That involves driving out to Walmart only to be disappointed in the extremely disorganized store. At least I'll be getting stuff to try out a new soup recipe. I'm excited for it...I'll let you know how it goes!

Another plus, the weather is still nice. That makes any day better. And, Modern Family is on tonight...woot, woot!

PS: Today is my mom's birthday. She's pretty much the best Mom ever, so Happy Birthday, Mama!

PPS: I love dry weather. I actually think my hair looks nice...it's a miracle!

Long Conversation

2011-10-04T16:03:00.001-04:00

Day 26

Oh my goodness, today is so beautiful outside! It is in the lows 70s with low humidity and sunny as can be. My hair is sure appreciating this dry weather. It feels smooth and straightens so nicely. My lips, however, are not. I haven't used this much chapstick since we lived in Utah!

While I haven't spent much time outside, sadly, I have enjoyed having the doors opened and lounged in the sun in the kitchen for 3 hours while I talked to my sister. Yup...three hours (that's why I'm posting so late)! This is the sister I'm closest in age to and we had a lot to talk about because she was recently engaged! I am so excited for her and it was so much fun to talk about how he proposed and all the planning and excitement that comes with a wedding.

I think I got pretty lucky when I got married because it was pretty low-key and low-stress. I often hear about people saying they would never want to get married again, but I think it would be great! Our wedding was simple and perhaps that is why it ended up being so much fun and so perfect for us.

I'm just so excited for my sister! It has been an exciting week in our family...a birth and an engagement!

"I'm going back to the start"

2011-10-03T14:27:00.002-04:00

Day 24

After such a wonderful weekend, it is sometimes hard to come back to reality on Monday, isn't it? Today has still been a pretty good day despite the fact. Although I haven't done the dishes or cleaned out the litter box, Scarlet has sat on my lap most of the morning trying to keep warm. It gets pretty cold in our apartment with cold nightly lows; even when we have the windows closed.

Day 25

So while I may still have to do my chores, I have this evening to look forward to. I finished the last Anne book I plan on reading, so Curtis and I are going to return the book to the NC State library. Lucky for us, a Chipotle recently opened on Hillsborough Street pretty much right across from the library. I bet you can't guess what our dinner is going to be?!?....Yummmm!

As for what I'll do between now and then...well, I guess I'll do the dishes and clean out the litter box...what fun.

After I took my pictures today, Scarlet decided to jump up on the stool and do some posing of her own. I couldn't miss out on the chance to take some pictures of her, and I thought I'd share them with you because she is just too cute and very beautiful.

Have a happy Monday!

Happy October!

2011-10-01T20:07:00.000-04:00

Day 23

Today has been what I would call a glorious day. Why?...you may ask...well there are several reasons, each one making the day more and more glorious. Isn't it nice to have a glorious day when you weren't really looking for it? I guess that is when they usually happen.

To start off the glorious-ness of today, it is Conference weekend, which can really make any weekend a perfect weekend.

Second, Curtis and I made cinnamon rolls this morning and they were pretty much to die for. Seriously, make these, like, tomorrow...they will change your world, I promise.

Third, it is a real genuine Fall day. It feels, smells, looks and just is perfectly fall-like outside. It makes me so happy, I could just shout. There is just something so magical about Fall, I can't even describe it. All I know is that the way Fall feels is happiness to me.

Fourth, Scarlet has been snuggling with us all day because of the cooler, fall-like weather. Snuggling with a kitty can make any day better! She is so sweet and so perfect for our little family.

Fifth, we ate a delicious dinner of roast beef sandwiches on sour dough bread with the ever-amazing Cheetos. Really, is there anything that goes better with a roast beef sandwich than Cheetos? I think not!

Sixth, I am listening to the Pride and Prejudice album as I type this blog. This music fills my soul and can make any day a better day.

Seventh, it's October! October is my favorite month of the year! I love the changing seasons, the cool crispness that comes to the air, the shifting light and mostly the awesome holiday.

Eighth, speaking of that awesome holiday, we put up Halloween decorations today. I love Halloween and it is really the only holiday I have lots of decorations for. So, we decorated away.

Ninth, the sun shined all day. After a week of clouds and rain the sun is so beautiful to see.

Tenth, tomorrow is Sunday and brings two more sessions of Conference to be heard and another Fall day to be lived. Isn't life wonderful to bless us with such days?

"For the beauty of the Earth..."

2011-09-30T14:35:00.001-04:00

Day 22

Today is such a beautiful day and, to top it all off, it's Friday! It's such a nice day out and hopefully Curtis and I will have some time to take advantage of it. Maybe we'll go for a walk or play croquet on the grassy area across the street from our apartment...that could be lots of fun.

You know, oddly enough, Friday usually isn't my favorite day of the week? For me, it's all about Thursdays. This started back in college, even more oddly. More often than not though, I didn't have many classes on Friday and so my roommates and I would start our "weekend" on Thursday nights. We'd stay up late and watch movies and begin neglecting homework, a day early. Yesterday, however, I kept thinking it was Friday which kind of ruined any Thursday-ness that might have existed. It also made me very excited for today, the real Friday.

I'm uber excited for this weekend! Tomorrow is the start of General Conference and I'm very excited. What could be better than a weekend of listening to the Prophets and Apostles? Maybe perhaps listening to them while eating cinnamon rolls? Yup, I'm taking a leaf out of my sister's book and starting a Conference cinnamon roll tradition. If you want to join in the fun and make some too, you can find my favorite recipe here or here. They are to die for and I can't wait to have some! Yum!

Hope you have some fun weekend plans too!?!

Trees are the soul of the earth

2011-09-29T14:38:00.000-04:00

Day 21

We have a beautiful Oak tree right out in front of our apartment. I love this tree. I love most trees but I especially like this one because it is so hugely huge. And, it isn't perfect; it has a scar from where a branch recently must have broken off. But, it is still beautiful and strong...I love it.

Trees are so beautiful. They are just like people, with unique characteristics and overwhelming wonder and beauty. Isn't it amazing to think that a tree as big as this came from a little seed? Trees are full of potential. They are my friends. It's a good thing we now live somewhere where there are trees a-plenty.

The squirrels are also rather fond of this tree as well as all the ones behind our apartment. They are busily gathering food for the winter and a day doesn't go by where I don't hear them nibbling away at the acorns and seeds. Not to mention our front porch is littered with acorn outsides (would they be called husks?).

It's not so humid today, thank goodness. And a cold front is coming in this weekend...yay! for Fall and Fall-like weather...finally. Isn't the world such a beautiful place?

"I've been nonsensical..."

2011-09-28T14:13:00.001-04:00

Day 20

I know these pictures are a little dark but it's actually nice today and not crazy humid (though it is still kind of humid), as such, I wanted to be by the door. That being said, it has been crazy humid lately and I've just given up on trying to keep my hair straight. Despite the fact that I have straightened my bangs everyday this week they have gone back to wavy in about 20 minutes or less. So today, I am embracing the s-curl because I just don't know what else to do.

It is official, I am addicted to Bojangles. We went there, again, for dinner last night. Seriously, I just can't get me enough of that fried chicken. I think I am going to start a Bojangles Anonymous program for the sake of our budget and most importantly for my arteries...Hello, my name is Chelsea Park and I am addicted to Bojangles...

Another problem though, now that I've admitted my Bojangles addiction...I'm also addicted to Goodberrys. Why is unhealthy food always the best? Though Curtis would say the frozen custard is not totally unhealthy, because it is a good source of calcium and other such things that come from dairy products. I like his philosophy on food...everything has some nutritional value...

PS: Name that movie of my title post?!?

Libraries

2011-09-27T14:22:00.000-04:00

Day 19

A couple of weeks ago we visited our regional library over in Cameron Village. You know I've been reading the Anne of Green Gables books and while I was able to find the first two at the rather ghetto library on NC State campus, we have had to look elsewhere for the rest of the series. Luckily we have a library nice and close that has the entire series. Another perk of having a library at Cameron Village, Goodberrys is there and we can get some yummy frozen custard after checking out books. Sorry to all you who don't live in North Carolina and can't have Goodberrys. :(

Isn't there just something totally exciting about going to a new library and getting a library card? I feel uber important with my key chain library card now. I just love libraries and books; they smell nice and provide endless hours of enjoyment.

The library at Cameron Village is a little small, but it is fancy. I have to confess though, going to these libraries really makes me miss BYU's library. I mean, it is like the top ranked university library in the nation. What could be better?

I had a special bond with that library. Not that I ever actually studied in it...no, I did that at my spot in the JFSB. But, I did spend a lot of time in there looking for books.

I don't know how I would survive without books. I'll be finishing the Anne books soon, so if you have read anything good lately, let me know...I'm going to need something to read soon.

Rearranging "The Chew-y" hairballs...Curtis named this post

2011-09-26T22:24:00.000-04:00

Day 17...I haven't been wanting to fix my hair lately

Day 18

It looks like I'm scowling in that picture. I promise I'm not. I was just smiling without my teeth. Apparently that looks like a scowl for me. Maybe I should work on that. I finally decided to fix my hair today. It did look good but now it's curling again because it was so humid today. Can it just be dry already?

The Chew started today on ABC. It's a pretty decent show though I think I need to watch a few more episodes before I have a definitive opinion. The nice thing is it brings some of my old cable friends (Michael Symon and Clinton Kelly) to regular TV, which is nice. I miss Iron Chef and What Not to Wear and especially HGTV.

I rearranged our apartment a little bit today. Nothing too big but maybe I'll take some pictures tomorrow to share. I'm still not sure how I feel about it, but the change is nice. Scarlet, however, isn't taking to it too well. I think she feels lost.

Man, I'm just all scowly in these pictures. I'll work on that tomorrow. I was going to say about Scarlet, I think she has a hairball that she's trying to get up. All I got to say is that it sounds painful. I hope it comes up soon and I'm glad we don't lick ourselves and get hairballs...gross.

"You are never poor as long as you have something to love."

2011-09-24T16:32:00.000-04:00

Day 16

As I mentioned yesterday, Curtis and I made pumpkin bread. It turned out delicious and made our entire apartment smell like Fall. It was wonderful! There's nothing quite like the sweet smell of spices filling up your apartment as it rains outside. It made for quite the enjoyable date night.

Speaking of date nights, we watched the newest Jane Eyre a couple of nights ago. We got it as our last Netflix movie. I thoroughly enjoyed it, naturally. After all, Jane Eyre is one of my all-time favorite books.

Today we went to the mall to buy some Lindt chocolates. Yes, we have a Lindt chocolate store in our mall and yes, we went there just to get some candy. The store is bliss and tempting and dangerous because we go and buy chocolate and it isn't the cheapest stuff around. But, we felt like splurging today and wanted to get out of the house. Seriously, Lindt chocolate is the chocolate that made Curtis, the self-claimed chocolate disliker, love chocolate. You should try some if you never have. Curtis told me to think about eating chocolate when he took this picture...hence the look of dreamy happiness.

I like having Curtis take the pictures for me because I can snap up cute ones of both of us, like this...just like I do with Scarlet.

PS: the title of this post is from Anne of Windy Poplars, the book I'm currently reading. It's so full of wonderful quotes.

Happy Fall!!

2011-09-23T13:20:00.000-04:00

Day 14-- Yes, this is yesterday and yes that is what happens to my hair when I don't fix it...eek!

Day 15--I'm half way through the challenge!

It's a rainy dreary sort of day today. But, I'm still excited because it is officially Fall. I guess it's fitting that we have rain? Honestly, it's been raining pretty much since I woke up this morning...kind of crazy.
It being the first day of Fall, not only will I put up the few non-Halloween related Fall decorations I have, but, I will also be making celebratory Pumpkin Bread that I am sooo excited for! If you want to make some to celebrate the first day of Fall too, you can find the recipe here. There are also other pumpkin related recipes there you can check out.

Sorry for the poor quality pictures. It's really dark outside and I had to rely on inside light. That is just no good, oh well.

On to more exciting news though...my sister gave birth to a beautiful baby boy early yesterday! Yay! I'm so excited for her and now have a nephew.

Have a wonderful first day of Fall and a Happy Friday! Any fun weekend plans out there? At the rate this rain is going, we'll either be swimming or spending the weekend keeping dry inside. Though, it's so humid you still feel wet even when inside...ha ha...gotta love the South.

Not doing what I should be doing

2011-09-21T13:25:00.000-04:00

Day 13

You know those surveys you get on receipts? The ones where if you do them you are entered to win a big bucks gift card? Ya, those ones...do you ever actually do them? Let me tell you a secret, I do. In fact I'm doing one right now. I think I've done over 20 for Walmart but have I won the glorious $1000 gift card? Of course not! I'm really hoping to win the $5000 gift card to Target that I did the survey for last week. I've wondered how many people actually take the time to do them and if somebody really does win those gift cards. I'm jealous of the person who does.

I have things I should be doing today, like vacuuming and dishes and the bathroom is a hopeless mess. Do I want to do them though?....No. I think my allergies are starting to take a toll because I could really just sleep all day and still be tired.

It's a cloudy day and I'd rather just curl up on the couch with Scarlet and Anne of Windy Poplars and read for the rest of the day (that is until The Middle and Modern Family come on tonight...so excited!). Who really wants to do chores anyway? Have you got any good plans for the day?

I'm still looking for some good craft ideas, so if you've got one let me know. I have some Halloween decorations I want to make but I need to get some stuff for them first. I'll get around to it soon though because Halloween is just around the corner...yay!

What's on my mind

2011-09-20T14:43:00.000-04:00

Day 12

To Me

Joy flows through my soul,

my fingers tingle-- I touch the

simple letters of my name, and

my heart begins to soar with the hopes

of what awaits me inside. I feel

like a child on Halloween, eyeing

heaps of candy-- wrapped in crazy

bright colors of orange, yellow, purple.

My smile shines, bright as the

sun on a spring morning-- I hold the

paper close to my heart, for today

when the mail came, a letter was

addressed to me.

I wrote this back when I was in high school and it fits my current thoughts. I've been thinking about the mail today, oddly enough. Perhaps it's because I have a letter to friend I need to finish or because we won't be getting Netflix movies in the mail anymore after this week and the mail we get will decrease to like zero. Or maybe because I heard on the news that the USPS isn't making much money and they are trying to come up with solutions to prevent mail stopping all together. Whatever it is, I've got mail on the brain today.

Don't you just love getting mail? I sure do! It's so exciting to get a letter from a friend or family member. Mail is so much more fun than emails. I mean seriously, what could be better than good mail? So in order to support the mail system, start writing letters to someone. Sure, it may cost a little money to mail a letter but they are so much more personal and meaningful than emails. Really, what makes a day like getting a letter in the mail? I can't think of anything quite like it.

Monday Monday...

2011-09-19T15:15:00.001-04:00

Day 10

Yesterday, I actually wore tights to church! How exciting is that? You see, I have this secret obsession with tights...guess it's not a secret anymore. While the inside of our church building has been cold enough for tights (I swear it's a fridge in there) the outside weather hasn't been. But yesterday it was still cool so, I busted out me some tights and it made me happy as can be.

On the weekends I have Curtis take my pictures for me. It's nice to have someone else do it so I don't have to be inside. I still feel silly, regardless, having pictures taken of myself. By the way, I got that dress for $7 at Target! Total steal, huh?

Day 11

Today is another lovely Monday. I'm trying to like Monday's more. Now that I'm not in school it should really be just another day, right? I think Mondays will permanently have a bad rap though, no matter how nice Mondays can be...poor Mondays.

I currently have a cat grooming herself on my lap...I don't know how I feel about that...

Did you by any chance catch the Primetime Emmys last night? How cool that the Masterpiece Classic series Downton Abby won so many? I mean, seriously, that is one awesome show. If you haven't seen it, buy it and watch it. If you have Netflix you can watch it instantly through their services as well. It is an 8-episode mini series and is so worth every minute. The second part is supposed to air sometime early next year on PBS...keep your eyes out for it.

I don't know if you've noticed but I am in the process of growing out my hair. Right now, it is in a super ugly phase. I think it has been in this phase for the past 4 months. It's days like these that I wish I had never chopped it all off to about 2 inches last December. But, it was fun having short hair so then I don't feel so bad. I just want it to be long enough to braid. I miss french braids. Grow hair, grow!

It's a grey day

2011-09-17T16:20:00.000-04:00

Day 9

Yes, it's still cold outside and rather grey. It's a nice change though and we are enjoying it, even if our apartment is a little chilly. It's also very quiet in here with no fans buzzing and no windows open. It'll take some getting used to when it gets cold for reals.

We slept in this morning. Usually we're both up before 8; Curtis for work and me because a kitty comes in and jumps on the bed when Curtis wakes up. It sure did feel nice to sleep in this morning; it was definitely needed.

Speaking of things needed...we got Curtis some socks today! We had a $10 gift card for Khols that we got in the mail and sadly we decided to be practical and get Curtis some socks. There was a beautiful Fiestaware bowl that we thought about getting but, we got socks. I'm getting tired of folding his holey grey ones.

We also got Scarlet a new toy. We went to Petsmart to look at the chameleon (my dream pet) and we found a nice toy for her. She absolutely loves it and has been playing with it since we got home. Lots of good exercise for the kitty and entertainment for us.

I think we've got another cold night in store...soup for dinner (cold weather is good for something).

Did I get transported to another state?

2011-09-16T15:37:00.000-04:00

Day 8

Honestly, I don't feel like I'm living in the same place that I did yesterday. This time yesterday it was warm and 90 degrees...today we're at 60. That's a 30 degree difference that my body is just not handling too well. Don't get me wrong, I'm loving it. I have long pants and a sweater on, which I have greatly missed, but still, it's quite the drastic change.

Speaking of my pants, no, they are not part of my 30 items but I wasn't planning on this cold of weather when I selected clothing. I'm not cheating; this is just an emergency...right?

Do you have any fun plans for the weekend? Here in Raleigh we've got a Greek Festival going on at the fairgrounds and a Bug Fest and the Natural Sciences Museum. We just might have to hit one of those up.

Right now though, I'm just craving me some Bojangles. Honestly, best fast-food and maybe even just plain old best fried chicken I've ever had. Maybe I'll take Curtis there for a date. Nothing says "I love you" like Bojangles fried chicken (and yes, I'm being completely honest with that statement)!

Kitty Kisses

2011-09-15T13:48:00.000-04:00

Day 7

Kitty Scarlet likes to take pictures with me. She always comes up and checks out what I'm doing everyday during picture time. It's probably because she's curious and likes/wants to do anything that we do.

Speaking of her doing anything we do... We leave the bathroom door slightly ajar when we shower because we have no fan and well, Scarlet likes to come in and get in between the liner shower curtain and the outer shower curtain and sit there while someone showers. Sometimes she gets too curious, starts walking around and falls in the bathtub, too. The water doesn't deter her though; nope, she gets right back up there the next time someone showers. She is just too curious for her own good.

I also think she has ADD or at lease some serious focus issues. When Curtis plays with her in the evening, she has a hard time focusing on whatever toy he's trying to distract her with. She gets too interested in everything else and just kind of goes crazy. Sometimes she has too much energy for her own good (and my furniture's good) too. But that's okay; we still love her.

One thing I absolutely love about her is her "kisses." I've been trying to teach her to give kisses and so far it is working. At least with me it is. Her kisses are really just touching her nose to my nose but it's still so cute. I would say that about 75-80% of the time, if I stick my nose out close to hers, she'll close the gap and touch her nose to mine. Honestly, it melts my heart every time and makes Curtis jealous because she'll only do it with me.

I don't really know what to do with the rest of my day. I should vacuum, but that just doesn't sound like fun. I feel like be crafty but don't know what to craft. Any suggestions?

I just want to enjoy "The View"

2011-09-14T13:06:00.000-04:00

Day 6

I have a question...... Is it really necessary to interrupt regular programming on television to show the President getting off of an airplane? The President is speaking at NC State today and so naturally, he had to fly here. However, the news people seem to think that it is important enough to show him getting off the plane when my favorite morning show The View is on. I just really don't think anybody getting off a plane is important enough to interrupt regular broadcasting. I mean, I expect interruptions when something serious happens but is getting off a plane serious? I mean, come on news people...what are you thinking? The View is way more important than that...in my humble opinion.

That's enough of my ranting though...on to more important things. Scarlet visited the vet for the last time yesterday. We have to keep giving her drops until Monday and hopefully it will all be cleared up by then! We're keeping our fingers crossed.

Also, we are currently in possession of a $20 Target gift card and a $10 Khols gift card. I know, I'm not buying clothes for this 30 day period but I'm thinking I might need me some nice Halloween decorations. Because I don't have enough as it is...(Halloween is really the only holiday I have decorations for, ha ha).

And last, but certainly not least in exciting news for the day, Coldplay's new album Mylo Xyloto is now available for pre-order. I have full plans to pre-order it on iTunes like right now. If you want to check out the latest single from the album you can go here. There are some other singles too which you can find and listen to if you feel like it. I'm so excited for the new album...I love me some Coldplay!

Ask me if I like....cheese...

2011-09-13T12:53:00.001-04:00

Name that movie, folks? It's a funny one that I fell absolutely in love with my freshman year of college.

Scarlet decided to join me for picture taking again today. She likes to be around us, like a lot. She follows me around most of the day while I do stuff. But, I've deemed today a lazy day and am planning on watching a movie or reading after this. I was productive this morning...well, kind of...

Two weeks ago now Curtis made some cheese in his lab. You see, the people in his lab, Curtis included, start the cheese making process in order to get the whey so they can study it. After getting the whey, apparently they just throw out the curds (unless they actually need them). So, Curtis decided to put those curds to use and made us a whole-lota cheese! We have over 10 pounds in our fridge and have gone through almost an entire 2.5 pound block in 2 weeks! We love cheese around here and Curtis is really helping us lower our grocery bill which is also great.

Day 5

Speaking of lowering costs, we got free gas last Friday. Apparently some girl won some contest sponsored by Ford and Shell and won the entire city free gas. Good thing we were on empty! We got an entire tank of gas...for free! Talk about budget-saving; we are so on a roll this month.

Pumpkins and "Anne-isms"

2011-09-12T13:42:00.000-04:00

Day 4

I currently have a kitty on my lap who is trying to help my type and it smells like cut grass outside. I think I might start having an allergy attack. At least it smells a little bit like Fall too!

Speaking of Fall, my sister came down from VA to visit last week and brought some pumpkins from my parents's garden. It made me so excited! I love pumpkins and Fall and Halloween and pretty much everything about this time of year!

I started reading the Anne of Green Gables books about a week ago. I know, I only read them all a year ago but I just couldn't help myself! I just felt the need to lose myself in the world of Anne and her non-stop talking and imagination. I find myself thinking like she does the further I get along in the books. Don't you just love how books can do that to you sometimes? That you can get so lost in them and get to know the characters like they are your best friends? I love it!

I feel like I'm all legs with these shorts on! Oh, and I promise, they totally go to me knees when I'm standing. They just like to ride up when I sit. And, since I'm incapable of taking a picture of myself, head included, while standing, I sit...sorry.

PS: Kitty Scarlet update...she's loosing her baby teeth...it's so cute! She licks a lot to try to get them out, but really it just makes the teeth lay flat and forward so she kind of looks like a vampire kitty.

Sad little goopy-eyed kitty

2011-09-10T18:19:00.001-04:00

Day 3

Our little Miss Scarlet decided to join me in my second go-around of picture taking so, I decided to snap up a picture of her because you can never have too many. And yes, I accidentally deleted some of my pictures so I had to take them again...hence the post-nap hair.

Anyway, Scarlet has a mild upper respiratory infection. She caught it back at the SPCA; one of the only real downers of getting a shelter animal. Luckily, it's only in her eyes because it's basically like a kitty cold/flu and can spread to the sinuses, nose and lungs. Unlucky for us, we have to put 2 different types of drops in her eyes 2 times a day. Have you ever tried putting drops in a squirming, non-obliging, sad and goopy kitty's eyes?...Not fun my friends, not fun at all. At least they're kind of working...I think...

30 for 30

2011-09-09T12:48:00.000-04:00

I've decided to try out Kendi's 30 for 30 Remix. I've seen people do this challenge on some of the blogs I follow, and have decided to give it a try myself. More often than not, I find myself sad and upset and bored with my wardrobe; always wishing I could buy new things. Naturally, we don't really have the money for me to go out and shop every day or week or month for that matter. So, in order to rekindle interest in my wardrobe I have taken 30 items from what I have and will create 30 different outfits for the next 30 days. Also, I have decided to make it a no-spend 30 days. I'm still working out the details of my 30 items but as of yesterday, here is what I had picked out.

12 tops

3 pants/shorts

6 skirts/dresses

5 sweaters

And 4 shoes

It's a little challenging since we're kind of in between seasons and I really never know what the weather will be like, but, I think I've got something for everything. Also, I've decided to not include accessories in my 30 items because well, they're accessories. They aren't included in this challenge at all, meaning I can buy new ones...ha ha.

Anyway, I started yesterday so here is outfit 1....

And here is today's outfit number 2 (I'm bad at taking pictures of myself and cut my head off, oh well)...

I know I'm no fashion blogger by any means, but I really want to try this out and actually blogging about it will keep me responsible for doing it. So please bare with me and these posts over the next 30 days of what I'm wearing. I hope this inspires you to take a second look at your clothes though and maybe realize the potential that is there. I'm hoping it happens for me!

Miss Scarlet

2011-08-30T13:29:00.000-04:00

On Saturday, Curtis and I braved the hurricane (which wasn't bad here in Raleigh) to adopt ourselves a kitty from the SPCA. We had gone on Friday to look and adopt but didn't have enough time to actually adopt the sweet Miss Scarlet that we fell in love with. So we woke up and drove through the wind and rain to pick her up on Saturday before anyone else to steal her from us.

She is such a sweet, beautiful and loving kitty and keeps us company and on our toes all day. She is about 4 months old and is an all black cat with a few random white hairs. Black cats take longer to get adopted from the SPCA and though that isn't why we picked her it made me feel good for falling in love with her.

I think she has fallen in love with us as well. She loves to snuggle most of the day with me and follows me around and at night she loves to jump and play around with Curtis in between snuggle sessions. She is, so far, well behaved. She eats her food, uses the litter box and only scratches the cardboard scratcher we made for her...it's amazing!

It's nice to have a friend around with me all day and I look forward to watching her grow and getting to know her more. She can be very calm and very crazy, and is really just all-around fun. Curtis and I had been thinking about adopting a kitten for a few months and of course, we decided to act on it during a hurricane. What can we say...she's our little hurricane kitty!

Love me some HP

2011-08-29T16:23:00.000-04:00

I did it! Seven books in one day shy of four weeks! I decided to reread the Harry Potter series not too long after the last movie came out and so I started them 4 weeks ago and finished today. It's really cool reading all 7 in a row. I would highly recommend it if you haven't read the books lately or even if you have. Seriously, you can never have too much HP.

Lake Johnson

2011-08-18T12:11:00.000-04:00

One of our favorite places to visit in Lake Johnson park. It's close to our apartment and has, not only a fantastic lake but a really nice trail to walk around. The weather has been really, really nice this week and since all our summer shows have ended we have been visiting the lake more.
On Monday, we happened across a whole bunch of baby turtles eating in the shallows of the lake and we went back yesterday to find them. And find them we did, along with some big turtles and lots of ducks and geese (they're always around).

This was our favorite little guy to watch. He was nice and close to the shore and didn't move around too much...he was hungry!

Some more of our little turtle friends. At one point there was like 6 of them eating around where we were watching.

This big guy was a little farther out. Sorry if you can't see him well, the water is murky.

These geese were kind enough to pose for me! We didn't have anything to feed them with but some other people came that did and it was honestly a mad house...there are a lot of ducks and geese here.

We even got out ducks/geese in a row!

This was Curtis's favorite guy. We're pretty sure it's a Blue Heron of some sort. He is one big bird!

Curtis took this picture...it's a lot of ducks and that isn't even half of all the birds that live here!

We have been so glad that the weather has been nice this week so we can go to the lake. It's a great way to spend our evenings, walking around and looking at all the crazy animals. You can also rent boats to take out and we plan on renting and taking out a paddle boat soon!

Pencils, Pens, Notebooks and...Shells?

2011-08-17T09:42:00.000-04:00

Today is back to school day for all NC State students. That means Curtis has his first class today and is officially going back to school....without me.
Don't get me wrong here, when I think about the fact that I don't have to worry about homework and papers and tests I'm so glad I'm not going back to school. At the same time, this is the first time 18 years that I haven't gone back to school.
Even though I know that I normally wouldn't be going back to school right now (BYU didn't start classes until later) it still makes me a little sad knowing that I will not be joining in the institutional education experience this year. I know I can still learn new things but there is something about going to class and taking notes until you are bored out of your mind that I think I will miss. I'm really missing all my Art History classes right now and I think I would even tackle the papers and tests to be taking one this semester while Curtis is off in school without me joining him. Perhaps I'm being a little to nostalgic but I feel incomplete knowing that I will most likely no longer be going to school. What am I supposed to do now?

Now onto more exciting things! You remember this jar o' shells from yesterday's post, right? Well, I mentioned that we had gone to the beach this past weekend and that is where I collected this mighty fine collection of shells!

Now some of you might find shell collecting a little childish, but let me tell you, I love it! It gives you something to do while standing in the water and it is so cool to see what you can find. Shells come in all shapes and colors and it's neat to think about the creatures that one inhabited them.

But, yes, we went to Wrightsville Beach this weekend and we had a blast!!! So much so that I hope we go back very soon! Yes, it may have been overcast and windy but the water was probably at least 80 degrees and we played in it to our hearts content! Naturally, we forgot to take a camera but I did take a couple of pictures of the sandcastle and fortress that we built with my phone.

We included a moat and a fortress for protection against any evil foes! It was supposed to be more of a castle ruins, and that's why some of the tops are crumbling. Really we just didn't get the knack of the bucket dumping until we did the fortress (which I only made to pass the time while Curtis went and fed the meter).

We had so much fun at the beach! Yes, we got a little sunburned but at least I look like I have seen some sun this summer now...ha ha. I really hope we go back very soon!

Summer Sewing

2011-08-16T13:16:00.000-04:00

This summer while Curtis has been off working everyday to bring home the bacon I have been reading a lot (books like Sense and Sensibility, The Help, and currently The Harry Potter Series plus a whole lot more!) and I have been sewing a lot. You have already seen some of the crafts and small sewing projects I have done here, here, here and here. However, that is far from all that I have done this summer! Ever since getting my sewing machine for Christmas I have wanted to try making all sorts of things. So, I have tried my hand at sewing this summer and found I love it! Here's a little taste of the things I have made so far...

I made these pillows for my mom shortly after we moved to North Carolina. They were both inspired by blogs but done without any pattern. I like making pillows...they don't take much time.

I made this skirt for my sister. I had made me one for myself when we were still living in Utah and she saw it and wanted one. Yes, this was done with a pattern and includes pockets! I still have some material to make her another one. I haven't gotten around to it though...oops.

Then, while in Virginia and covered with an allergic reaction rash, I made this pillow case with my mom. I gave it to Curtis as an anniversary present. We went to Seattle on our honeymoon.

After a break from big projects I got back to it a couple of weeks ago with these PJ/comfy shorts for Curtis and I. It's been hot here lately and we've needed something cool to relax in. Yes, these were done with a pattern.

Last week I made me this bag with some material I got while in VA. I had seen a cinch bag in some stores and decided to try making one. I was so excited when it turned out just how I wanted!

And finally, yesterday, I made this skirt. I had had this idea for a skirt in my head for some time and decided to give it a try yesterday. I was so surprised it turned out. It even has pockets!

I have a few crafty projects I'm still working on including some sandal embellishing and a jar of shells that I collected when we went to the beach this weekend.

All in all, I feel I have had a lot of success with sewing so far and since it has been way to hot too bake it's nice to have a new hobby to keep me busy. Plus it's great to see something I like in a store or have an idea of something I'd like or want and realize that I can actually make it!

Our Apartment

2011-07-27T14:01:00.000-04:00

Finally, after living here in Raleigh for almost 4 months I finished unpacked and decorating. As such, I have pictures to share! It's a good thing I took these pictures when I did because a big storm is passing by right now (seriously, probably 30 minutes after I took these pictures) and it's pretty dark in our apartment. But anyway, this is our humble abode here in Raleigh.

The front of our apartment.

The view across the street. Campus is right across the street which is nice. That big tower thing in the left corner likes to get struck by lightening. Not so nice, very loud.

This is what you see when you walk in the front door.

These are all the front room from various angles, leading into the kitchen which is well, part of the front room, as I'm sure you noticed.

Then we got the kitchen. It is by far the nicest kitchen I've ever had though it doesn't have a dish washer. It's okay though gives me something to do everyday while Curtis is at work.

This is where our washer and dryer are supposed to go...under the air conditioner/heating unit. Unfortunately we can't afford one so we use a laundry room at a close apartment complex that is owned by the same company that owns ours.

And this is the little dinning nook.

Then we have a little hallway leading to the bathroom and bedroom. It has a nice linen closet.

The bathroom...oh boy. It's small but it serves it's purpose. And it has a window...that's a first for us.

Then there's the bedroom. It's a good size, fits all our stuff, has two closets and is finally decorated!

Out the back door which is in the kitchen is this--

There is also a little patio/porch area but it was raining so I took these pictures quickly.

This is the lovely dirt parking lot and forest behind our apartment...ha ha.

And this is the walk of death that we have to take from our car to our apartment. It's kind of steep, especially right at the stairs. But that's okay...I guess.

So there it be, this is where we live now. We really like this apartment. Ya, it might be a little older and not have a dishwasher or washer/dryer but it is definitely one of the bigger places we have lived and the most functional. Plus, we are really close to campus and most other places we like to go.

So far, we love living in Raleigh. Yes, it has be WAY too grossly hot lately but, this is a really cool place to live with a lot of stuff to do. We are really liking it.

Shoe Embellishments

2011-06-22T14:06:00.000-04:00

Last week my mom came down for a visit and for what I think should become a tradition...craft week! I think we more talked and laughed about the crafts than actually crafted but it was still fun and I hope we do it again. This is one of the crafts I did (finally finishing it today) and I thought I would share.

I saw this idea not too long ago and knew I wanted to do it. For starters, I love shoes. Also, I love bows...so why not combine them? Plus, it's really easy!

All you need is some shoes, some matching vinyl, some fabric (can easily be scraps) and E-6000 glue.

Then, you simply cut some small strips of the vinyl, loop them and use the E-6000 to glue it to your shoes. Just make sure you make the loop big enough that you'll be able to get your fabric through it. Mine is a tight squeeze, but I can manage.

And yes, I intended to do this with a pair of black shoes (hence the black vinyl) but it turns out I got rid of them before we moved...go figure.

After the glue has dried for a few hours, or while it's drying, you cut four squares/rectangles of whatever size you desire from your fabric.

Simply sew the rectangles together inside-out, leaving a small hole to turn them back right-side-out so your sewing doesn't show.

Then, when you're sure the glue has dried on the vinyl, you just pull the fabric squares through the vinyl loop and there you have it...bows! And, they are interchangeable! So you can make as many squares as you want in whatever shape, size and fabric and switch up the bows any time!

This is such a great idea for the summer, don't you think? I love me a comfortable pair of flats and what could be more fun than having bows to mix and match with whatever you are wearing?

Containing the Keys

2011-06-07T15:59:00.000-04:00

For the past few years, this is what I have used to make my keys more accessible in the bottomless pits of my purses.

Today I decided it had long past reached it's prime in not only color but use. So, I made a replacement. I just took some scraps of fabric, some felt, my handy-dandy iron and sewing machine and went to work.

The result was better than I expected which is always a plus, isn't it? I love when you have an idea that you're sure won't work out and then it works out great! What do you think?

It was really quite simple. I just cut some strips of fabric and a strip of felt. I then ironed the fabric around the felt, pinned it in place and sewed it up. I added a spare button I had on hand and then folded it in half and sewed around the top and that was it. Seriously, took me like 15 minutes! I used a different fabric on the inside to add some spice...in case you were wondering.

I think it suits my keys just fine and is a little more durable than my previous attempt.

All in all I like it. I might try tweaking with the design if I make more but for now I like the nice loop at the bottom that I can put around my wrist and I think the size is perfect! What a great way to use up some scraps of fabric and a long and hot afternoon!

Headbands

2011-06-01T14:44:00.000-04:00

I LOVE headbands!! They make life so much better...don't you think? They can add a little pazzazz to an outfit that makes it perfect and turn a bad hair day into a great one! Needless to say, I love them and am always looking for new headbands to make that will be cute and comfortable. I just couldn't resist making these headbands. Especially since my hair has a mind of its own here in the South where it is hot and humid. I seem to have bad hair days everyday since I'm growing it out and it's humid.
So, today I decided to whip up a couple of headbands so I can hide that bad hair that never seems to want to cooperate. Honestly, these headbands can be done no-sew. All you need is a glue gun, fabric and some headbands.

These are easy-peasy. Just take some fabric and cut it into 4 strips longer than the headband, the 4th being almost twice the length of the headband.

Braid the three that are the same length. I glued them together to make braiding easier and to hold it all in place. Then take the longest strip and wrap it around the headband.

I didn't cut enough but it was not big deal...just cut another strip and continued on my way.

Then you just take the braided piece and glue it on with fabric glue or a hot blue gun and there you go! You just made yourself a headband!

I love how simple this is and that you can just use scraps of fabric or an old shirt and just an old headband. And now I have a cute and casual way to pull my hair out of my face and hide the bad hair day blues.

Sometimes headbands hurt my head, so I made this one without using a headband. I braided some fabric and then attached a little bit of elastic that I had leftover from another project and voila!

I did sew the elastic on but if you've got some good fabric glue or you really trust your hot glue gun, just glue it on. And if you don't have elastic just use ribbon and tie it around your head! Or if your strips of fabric are really long you can just sew the ends together and there you go...headband. The possibilities are endless!

I love simple craft projects like this that end up being super useful. I'm always keeping my eyes out for things like this!

Memorial Day

2011-05-31T12:33:00.000-04:00

It's hot...let's just leave it at that. We are quickly learning how much humidity can make a difference. While both Curtis and I have lived in humid environments, we've been in Utah for a while and getting used to it again after all the dry is taking some time.
So yesterday was Memorial Day and though Curtis had to work, he got off early and we wanted to do something fun. We thought about going to the beach or the Lake Johnson but, like I said, it's hot and well, we were hesitant to venture outside. So, we decided to grill...and yes, this was probably the hottest choice of them all. We did wait until 6 to get started, but we both did ample sweating and enjoyed getting back into our air conditioned apartment as quickly as possible.
We had to buy a new grill since the one we got for our wedding kind of rusted out last winter since we accidentally left it out. But that's okay, we found an affordable small replacement grill at the wonderful Target.

We love grilling pizza and decided to do it again because it is so delicious. Seriously, you should try it out! First we had to grill the chicken for our pizza. We made our favorite grilled chicken, mashed potato pizza. I let Curtis take care of that one, since he claims to be the master griller of the house. In all reality it was just hot so I was more than obliging in letting him grill.

After the chicken cooked, we formed the pizza dough into rounds and put it on the grill. Making pizza on this grill, though it may be hot outside sure beats turning on the oven inside when it is in the high 90s and humid. This way we can enjoy homemade pizza without making our apartment crazy hot! That and there's a nice crispiness to grilled pizza that you just don't get in your at-home oven. Really, if you haven't tried grilling pizza, try it. Just remember that you don't want to cook the dough over really hot coals or else the outside will burn before the middle cooks. This is why we opted for personal sized pizzas this time...easier cooking.

When the first side of the dough starts to brown, just flip it over, add the toppings cover the grill and let the magic work.

Curtis and I thoroughly enjoyed our pizza but what I really wanted to do for Memorial Day was make s'mores. I really don't know why I was craving them so, but I was so we made them. We roasted up our marshmallows...

...used my favorite Cabury chocolate and made some ooey, gooey and oh-so-yummy s'mores for dessert!

So though it was hot and we didn't go to the beach like my family usually does for Memorial Day, we did have lots of fun and made some delicious food. Most holidays involve good cooking for us...I think we're just cooking people. That and we love food!

Market and Craft Time!

2011-05-18T13:57:00.001-04:00

This weekend Curtis and I went to the Farmer's Market and the Flea Market that they have here in Raleigh. They were both a lot of fun and let me tell ya, I'm excited to go back sometime soon!
The Farmer's Market is big and it's open everyday which makes it even more exciting! And not only do they sell fresh produce but also flowers and bread and candies and meats and all sorts of things. While there, we picked up some veggies and some ridiculously good bread and also a poblano pepper plant!

I was so excited when I saw that people were selling pepper plants. I have been wanting to grow them for a while now and figured they'd work well in a pot. Plus, they were like $1.70 so I just couldn't resist!

At the Flea Market there was a lot of interesting stuff. Some was cool and some was just junk really but I did end up finding this little number here.

The minute I saw it, I knew I had to have it! It took a little while to get Curtis to see my vision but after some convincing he got it for me. It was only $7 after all.

As soon as I saw this window, I knew I wanted to make a headboard of sorts out of it. I've seen this done with salvaged doors, so why not a salvaged window? When we got it home I was thinking of painting it and then hanging it up. But, I decided I really liked the worn look of the window and knew that painting it would take that away. So I threw that idea out the window (no pun intended). But, since our walls are just white I didn't want to just hang it up and see boring old white walls through the windows. That's when I came up with this idea....

I decided to get me some scrapbooking paper that was all pretty like...

...and some Mod Podge, of course...

and then I went to work! I cut the paper down to size and put some Mod Podge (I LOVE this stuff!) right on the window. I then put the piece of paper on top of that; used my handy kitchen scrapper to get any bubbles out and that was it!

I had created me a colorful window display that wouldn't be as boring as the white walls.

After that we just had to hang it up. Boy, that was fun. First we had to find the studs (I turned out to be surprisingly good at this). Though the window isn't that heavy, we don't really want it falling down on us during the night so after quite a while we found the studs and got it all hung up right and straight. It really wasn't that bad but I don't think we'll be hanging up anything else bug for a while. However, I think the end result was fabulous...what do you think?!?

Perhaps I should have hung it a little lower so it looks more like a headboard, but oh well. I really like it and am glad what I envisioned all worked out. In fact, it really turned out better than I was imagining in my head. It's always fun when that happens! I am sure excited for more Flea Market finds that I can get creative with!

One Long Drive....

2011-05-10T11:16:00.000-04:00

Almost two weeks ago now, Curtis and I started out on our adventure and moved East. We ate at Bombay House one last time, packed up our apartment into a rather small relo-cube, turned in our keys, said our goodbyes and left early in the morning...due east.

It was sad to leave and even as I think about it now, I miss BYU and all the memories and places that were special to us in Provo. But I am so excited to be here now and looking forward to all the Raleigh has to offer.

Back to the story though...since we used a relo-cube we only had to drive our car across the country (thank goodness!) and we planned to do so in three days because we really only had enough money for that. So, the first day was killer but we somehow managed to make it to Lincoln, NE. It was a long day...like 13 hours plus long. You want to know why we really made it to Lincoln? Many people did not think we could make it that far in one day...that it was too long and Curtis, wanting to prove them wrong, made sure we did make it. Don't get me wrong, I'm glad we did.

The second day we started out from Lincoln and traveled through a little bit of Iowa and on into Missouri. We were really lucky to be able to stop and the Liberty Jail in Missouri. This was a really neat experience and I am so glad we did make it Lincoln so that we could make stops on the second day. We lunched in Independence, MO and then continued on our way. In St. Louis we just had to stop to see the Gateway Arch. I mean, honestly...how can you not stop at places you have read and heard about all your life?

It was really cool and bigger than I thought...with how close we were to it, I couldn't take a picture of the entire structure.

But we could touch it! I thought this was a cool angle.

Curtis was excited...yes, it started to rain right as we left.

I liked it too!

We even happened on a flooded Mississippi. Yes, the river is covering up a walkway and some stairs. Apparently it is even worse now.

After playing the tourist, we crossed the Mississippi and officially entered the east. Strange to think that a place in St. Louis, Missouri is called the "Gateway to the West," isn't it? As we drove through Illinois and Indiana we saw even more flooding. In some places the water was only five or so feet from reaching the interstate...it was pretty crazy. That night we rolled into Louisville (Lou-a-vull), KY. It was pretty dark so we didn't see too much, but it seemed cool to me and I couldn't stop thinking of the movie Elizabethtown.

The next morning we headed out again, through the rest of Kentucky and on into West Virginia, which was surprisingly beautiful. And though the scenery was nice, at this point both Curtis and I were done and were very grateful for the books on CD that my mom got us! We learned all about President Hinckley in his biography and it made the last day go by so fast. At this point we knew we would be stopping at my parents's house in Windsor, VA because our relo-cube was a ways behind us. Finally, with very sore bums and legs, we got out of the car in Windsor and enjoyed a weekend there of absolutely no sitting! The next Tuesday we finally made the drive down to Raleigh and started the unpacking.

And here we are, a week later, still unpacking! In all fairness, we did go up to Windsor again for Mother's Day, so we haven't even been here for a week. We have, however, already been to Walmart twice. Curtis started working this week and I have only had one real panic attack so far. I'm adjusting though and I know it will only get better from here.

A New Home

2011-03-29T17:34:00.000-04:00

So last week, after much searching and even some disappointment, Curtis and I found out that we got the apartment we have been applying for for a few weeks now! It was some very exciting news and I guess I should have posted about it earlier. We haven't paid our deposit yet or anything like that, but they said it is ours so they better not go back on us...ha ha ha.
Anyway, if you are interested, here is a link to some photos we got of the place----

http://s1195.photobucket.com/albums/aa399/sydkia/

Raleigh, here we come (well, in about a month)!!!

Musings on an upcoming graduation

2011-03-02T15:45:00.000-05:00

So I've been thinking a lot today and needed to get some thoughts out. I should probably write this in my journal. But, I think I need to send this out hoping that some of you just might know how I feel and can offer come words of wisdom.
I'm graduating from college in April. I feel no sense of accomplishment about this. I know, I should...this is college I'm graduating from, not High School. Sadly though, I don't. I feel more like I cut corners and just got by to graduate. Maybe I don't feel qualified enough to be a college graduate. But what is being a college graduate? I sure hope it doesn't mean that I should know everything because I sometimes feel like I know even less than I did when I sat down in my first class on my first day. Now, I know this isn't the case, but sometimes I feel that way.
Perhaps the problem is that I don't feel like I have a passion. Isn't this the time in my life when I'm supposed to discover myself and what I love or some crap like that? Don't get me wrong, I love the things I do and am interested in, but I don't know if I can say I have a passion. Maybe I could say that I am passionate in learning about the wonderful world and cultures that exist beyond the little bubble of my world but I don't know. I feel more like a wandering soul than I did when I first ventured on to the then "scary" world of BYU campus. Though, I've recently decided that I am just destined to be a wandering soul. Like I said, I have no real passion--I just wander, eventually discovering new and exciting things. Is it okay to be a wanderer? I feel like I'm interested in nothing because I am interested in everything. Do I need to pick one thing that I love or is it okay to just love learning?
I wouldn't say I am scared to graduate, more worried. I don't know what to do with myself outside of school. I've been doing it too long to know who I am without it. And then I'm going to a new city in a new state on the other side of the country. Perhaps this clean slate is an opportunity for me. The only problem is I have no idea what to do with it. I know I should feel like my options are limitless but instead I feel like they are incredibly limited.
I just don't feel like I have accomplished anything during my five years of college. And I'm coming out of this experience confused and worried with what I should do with my life next.

Quick and easy Valentine's day craft

2011-01-31T19:03:00.000-05:00

I only have one decoration for Valentine's Day. And though in my family we like to call it the Black Holiday, I still thought it might be nice to do a little decorating for the day. So while perusing some of my favorite blogs, I came across this idea. And well, it looked easy enough so I decided to give it a try.

All you'll need for this cute idea is--- crayons, wax paper, an iron a pencil sharpener and some towels. Yup, that's it! You probably have all those things right now.

Once you get all your supplies you can get started on the crafting. I made sure I looked over the directions a few times before I got started and it was really as easy as it sounds.

You'll just use the pencil sharpener to get crayon shavings to put on the wax paper. I would recommend just shaving the crayon over the wax paper and then break down the shavings so they are smaller. Spread the shavings over 1/2 of the wax paper.

Then fold the wax paper over and fold in the other three sides to prevent any wax leaking. Make sure you have some towels on the bottom and put another one on top before ironing. The crayon color will leak through so make sure you just use some rags you don't care about, especially since the crayon on mine didn't actually wash out (don't worry...I used some old rags).

Iron the wax paper and crayon shavings until all the shavings have melted. Use a medium high-high heat and make sure you use the dry setting. Any steam will make the wax paper wet and bubble.

Once all the crayon shavings are melted, let it cool and then you can cut out shapes. You could really do this for any holiday but since it's almost Valentine's Day, I did hearts.

Our front door is a huge window, so I decided to hang mine up in the window. I just used some thread and strung the hearts with the thread using an needle. With a little bit of tape they were ready to hang. Here's the end result---

I like it! It's Valentine's Day-y without being too cheesy or over-the-top. Just simple and colorful and they look great in the sun (when it actually shines).

North Carolina...here we come!

2011-01-19T14:14:00.001-05:00

Yup, that's right...we are going to North Carolina!
Both Curtis and I are graduating in April, well, that is as long as I survive the semester, and we now know where we will be going after we're done here at BYU. Curtis was hoping to get an assistantship at North Carolina State University and well, he has. He will also be doing some internship/preparatory-like work this summer and we will be heading out to North Carolina in May.
There were a lot of places we thought about going and that I would have loved to go. NC State, though, is really the perfect fit. Not only is Curtis going to be doing something he is really interested in under a great professor but I am only going to be 3 hours away from my parents and away from the dry dessert so my skin won't fall off anymore! I'll probably have the opposite problem now. I wanted to end up on the East because I love it and because it is where my parents live but I got even luckier when Curtis chose NC State.
It is weird having some actual plans and being able to tell people where we will be in the next 4 months. It is exciting and a little scary but we are definitely ready for this adventure.
I'm sure I will miss Provo a lot, especially Bombay House but I am so ready to be done with school and to head out East. Though honestly, I have no idea what I will do when we get out there...ha ha ha. Guess we don't have quite everything figured out.

Last First Day

2011-01-07T16:30:00.000-05:00

This week I was rather excited to celebrate my last first day of school. I mean, I have had many first days in my life and with expecting to graduate from BYU in April, this past Tuesday was to be my last first day.
However, on Sunday I woke up not feeling that great and by Tuesday, I felt a little something like this.....

So I missed my last first day, in fact, I missed my entire last first week. Yes, I have felt awful enough that I have stayed home and slept a lot. I even managed to use an entire box of these....

in three days! And now I'm all out and I so desperately need another box because Puffs Plus with lotion are much nicer to my poor nose than toilet paper is.

So, I have missed my last first day, but I'm hoping to be in good enough shape to go to school on Monday and have my last first day a little late.

Thankfully I have had Curtis this week. He has been really nice and has made dinner for me and is always making sure I'm okay. There really isn't much he can do to help me, but it's nice to not have to do everything around the house when having a bad day (that's my code for sick).

The Wishbone

2010-12-03T23:46:00.001-05:00

The wishbone...

And the break...

Hope Curtis enjoys his good luck.........

Turkey Time!

2010-11-26T13:27:00.000-05:00

Our grand feast! We had turkey (naturally), homemade rolls and stuffing, green bean casserole, and pie!

I love Thanksgiving. It's another one of my favorite holidays. I love the food and family; the parade and dog show; and of course the break from school. ;)
This year it was just Curtis and me celebrating Thanksgiving at our place. I thought it would be a little sad a lonely but we really ended up having a great time. We watched the Macy's parade and the dog show. I don't really know why we watch the dog show but it has become a tradition and well, I guess that's why.
Cooking was a lot of fun. I even made up my own stuffing recipe. I added a touch too much broth, but it still tasted good...that's probably because I used sourdough bread. All in all, Thanksgiving went well this year. Though, I think I really understand now what my mom said when sh complained that you cook for 5 hours for only 20 minutes of eating! But, we do have weeks of leftovers....

My attempt at setting the table nicely. I love setting the table all pretty and fancy-like for holidays!

The turkey and me...it was so pretty!

Curtis carving the bird.

Yummy goodness!

Harry Potter

2010-11-18T13:04:00.000-05:00

Tonight, at midnight, Curtis and I are going to see the first installment of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. And just to come out in the open here, I LOVE the Harry Potter books. I would probably consider myself a super-fan. I mean, I've read every book over 5 times a piece and I still can read them over and over.
Curtis and I went and saw the 6th movie at midnight as well. It was so much fun. We even dressed up, see...

I'm sure we'll do the same tonight. Dressing up is always fun and seeing everyone's costumes at the theater is even more fun. Seeing Harry Potter at midnight is a pretty big deal here. I mean, when I bought tickets several times were already sold out (I got 12:07) and there were showings for 3:30 am!! It's pretty crazy but a lot of fun.

So to get ready for seeing the movie tonight, we have watched all the other movies throughout the past month. I have also started re-reading the 7th book and I found some fun quizzes online today. This quiz is a long one, but it is also a very good one. Even I didn't know some of the answers, I think I got 88% right. So, if you want to test your HP knowledge, try it out and see how many you know. You can also get sorted if you want. I was sorted into Hufflepuff...no real surprises there.

The Harry Potter books have been a part of my life for such a long time now, that I just love all things Harry Potter. I started reading them before I was in 6th grade, probably about a year before they got really popular. I remember my mom taking the books away from me so I wouldn't stay up all night reading them. So much for that when I got older. I read most of the later books in one day, reading way too late into the night. The characters of Harry Potter became my friends as I grew up and reading the last book, though exciting, was a sad thing for me. I'm excited to see how well they'll portray this book in a movie and hope you are all planning on seeing it too!

Halloween...a little late

2010-11-06T14:01:00.000-04:00

Halloween is honestly one of my favorite holidays and I was very excited for it this year. I decorated with all my fun decorations (it's the only holiday I really have decorations for) and made some fun Halloween treats which you can look for here. I also watched some scary movies and interesting shows about the origins of Halloween on the History Channel. And, this year (about a week before Halloween) I decided to have a party.
I have been wanting to throw a party for a while now and Halloween presented a perfect opportunity. I made cake pops and Halloween calzones as well as other yummy treats and eats. It was fun. And though I had a melt-down that afternoon while making food and almost cancelled it, I'm glad everything turned out and we went through with it.
Curtis and I also dressed up because it was a costume-optional party. We were also going to carve pumpkins, but of course it rained. That's okay though. Here are our costumes...can you guess what we were?

Homecoming

2010-10-16T21:17:00.001-04:00

Last week was homecoming here at BYU and since it will most likely be the last one for Curtis and me, we decided to participate in as many activities possible. And while the weather didn't allow us to do everything we wanted to, we still had a great time.

Of course we did Hike and Light the Y. It was the first thing I ever asked Curtis to do with me when I was first interested in him and we have kept it a tradition these past 2 years.

This little light of mine...I'm gonna let it shine!

Curtis was excited to turn on his light!

It was cold up there this year, but I had a blast and will miss doing Hike and Light the Y

We also went to the football game. And BYU finally won! Curtis says it was because I was there. You see, I've never attended a football game that BYU has lost. Thank goodness I can still say that.

Curtis sure was excited to go to the game and he was rather jealous of my vintage BYU shirt that was my mom's.

After the game, we went to one of the Homecoming dances on campus. I had never been to a dance before and since I had a for sure date, I made him take me this year. It was lots of fun and I am glad we went.

It was a good Homecoming year and though we couldn't do True Blue because it was too cold that day, we still had a lot of fun.

Finally

2010-10-04T20:58:00.002-04:00

Guess what?!? It's finally Fall! And today it finally felt like Fall. After weeks of Summer-like weather (seriously, it was in the 90s) it's nice for it to be nice, cool and even rainy. Fall is my favorite season and I just love everything about it. Well, except maybe school. I love the leaves.

I absolutely love Halloween! It is the holiday that makes me feel like a kid again and putting up my Halloween decorations this weekend just made me smile.

I love eating warm soups and foods that always make me think of Fall and seriously, what could be better than treats made with pumpkin?

Fall is just a wonderful season and I am happy that it has finally decided to come. Hopefully we'll have no more days of hot weather...bring on the cool mornings, rainy days and sweaters!

Fishy Friend

2010-09-17T12:13:00.002-04:00

It has been almost a year, I think, since our last fish died. I have missed having a fishy friend, even if I always hated cleaning the bowl. In my single days I had had a fish for two years and this past year has been lonely without one.

So I solved the problem by going to Petsmart with Curtis and picking out a new friend. At first I thought about just getting a goldfish but I know that they don't live as long in bowls. I had one once and it surprisingly lived over a year. But that's unusual because they like lots of air and a bowl doesn't provide that. So we looked at our options and ending up picking a sturdy and beautiful Betta. And we splurged this time and got a Crowntail. I thought about getting a female but this little guy we picked out was the one for us. We named him Duke Ellington and I am loving having a fish again. It's really the only pet we can afford and probably the only one I can handle...ha ha ha.

At the store they did have a Chameleon though and I really wanted it. I've put it on my Christmas list, along with the many other rather expensive things I would like.

Duke Ellington! He likes to hide in the shell we put in the bowl...it's his secret alcove.

He's very colorful. And beautiful.

Once Again

2010-09-14T16:24:00.000-04:00

We have once again reached the dreaded third week slump! While most days I just feel like doing this--

I really know that I should be doing this---

Why is it that the third week of school is so difficult? Is it because it's when we realize what we've really gotten ourselves into? Perhaps it's because the add/drop deadline occurs and we can no longer escape our classes without paying a fee. Maybe it's because the rigor of going to school finally hits and all we really want to do is sleep. It goes beyond being tired though. Our mentality changes and we no longer feel that school is important. Why is it that we are so gung-ho about classes for only two weeks? Let's be honest, folks, reality has to sink in at some point. And apparently it does after three weeks. So for those of you out there facing the third week of whatever--school, work, etc, you can do it! The third week is only five days and we have almost survived two of them.

In My Windowsill

2010-09-11T18:52:00.000-04:00

Today while sitting at my desk, getting ready to blog instead of doing homework, I found me a friend that looked a little like this.

He was just looking through the screen asking if we could be friends and of course I said yes! I am a fan of Praying Mantises and think they are pretty much the coolest bug around. So since we are now friends I decided to snap a few pictures of him when the sun wasn't so bright.

He's a pretty cute little guy, isn't it? I think I'll call him Inigo Montoya. I once had a Praying Mantis in my window in Virginia that I had named Inigo Montoya. He just disappeared one day and I think he has now come back to me; much larger and wiser.