PrairieVisionDesign : Handmade

Herbert Hoover

2010-02-14T09:36:00.003-05:00

Herbert gets a bit of sewing trim that makes him adorable (and allows us to check off the "create a portrait of your president" part of an assignment). We would've loved to have kept decorating the poor man but worksheets, a written report and an oral report were calling.

Sewing fabric over the plate was easy for Sarah and when we're done with our homework, we'd like to return to other creations fashioned this way. I hope to turn her loose with scraps and a stack of plates. And lots of time to play.

Stitching One's Life

2010-02-02T19:48:00.001-05:00

A very interesting idea indeed.

Josefina Day

2010-01-30T20:37:00.005-05:00

Today we attended Josefina Day at the Eiteljorg Museum, the Native American museum in Indianapolis. While the Josefina events were geared toward tweens toting their American Girl dolls, we found there was something for each of us.

Sarah chose Kit to go with us.

Sarah tried her hand at metal tooling...

and grinding corn with a mortar and pestle.

There was Mexican folkloric dancing.

The boys had some time together.

Both kids took in the history, including this wigwam.

My favorite single item was this fiber piece by contemporary artist Marie K. Watt.

I also couldn't get enough of the color, beading and embroidery shown in the clothing pieces (some details shown above).

Headband and Messenger Bag

2010-01-10T15:40:00.005-05:00

The Bernina's been exercised lately. This tutorial was easy to follow for Sarah's headband. We have more in the works.

And, I finally put something in the etsy shop. It's a take on my longtime favorite patchwork bag, sized slightly larger so it can hold more (and function as a messenger bag). The patchwork and decorative topstitching are time-consuming and I'm hoping someone likes it (soon) as much as I do. Like the headband, I was able to use scrap fabric I had on hand which was a fun part of the creative process.

Loving Snow

2010-01-07T18:41:00.004-05:00

No matter that more snow got stomped back onto the shoveled driveway or that the wind made little cherries of our cheeks. There was much brightness to be had by all.

Cirque du Squirrel

2010-01-02T09:55:00.004-05:00

[This photo courtesy of my husband who has taken up ~~bird~~ squirrel watching this winter.]

Christmas Spirit

2010-01-01T21:33:00.007-05:00

The new year began today but I'm still hanging onto Christmas. We've been home as a family, having some much-needed time together. I'm reluctant to step back into the windy stream of living. For me, the slow place with family has been the real gift of the season.

We've had time for play...

and more play...
laughter...
baking...
and sweet treats...

(for all, of course...)
reading together...

and gifts of color and light. Peace on earth.

Life

2009-12-31T16:53:00.001-05:00

"Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans." – John Lennon

Singing

2009-11-29T17:32:00.003-05:00

How Can I Keep from Singing (Bruce Springsteen/Pete Seeger variation)

My life flows on in endless song
Above earth's lamentation.
I hear the real, thought far off hymn
That hails the new creation
Above the tumult and the strife,
I hear the music ringing;
It sounds an echo in my soul
How can I keep from singing?

What through the tempest loudly roars,
I hear the truth, it liveth.
What through the darkness round me close,
Songs in the night it giveth.
No storm can shake my inmost calm
While to that rock I'm clinging.
Since love is lord of Heaven and earth
How can I keep from singing?

When tyrants tremble, sick with fear,
And hear their death-knell ringing,
When friends rejoice both far and near,
How can I keep from singing?
In prison cell and dungeon vile
Our thoughts to them are winging.
When friends by shame are undefiled,
How can I keep from singing?

Table Runner

2009-11-19T21:56:00.004-05:00

Sometimes the hardest part of a project is not...being...able...to...talk...about...it. I'm glad this reached my friend for her birthday today.

[I like this composite image, made from 2 photos, even though it distorts the rectangular shape of the runner.]

Crescent Rolls

2009-11-08T14:16:00.007-05:00

Originally I intended only to email this photo to E who is on a business trip and missing homemade cooking (sorry, Love). But this recipe is too good not to share.

Today I am making rolls for Thanksgiving. The last time E and I hosted Thanksgiving was 9 years ago - there were only six of us but I ate like it was the end of the world as I was 40 weeks pregnant and couldn't have cared less about an extra pound or two. [it really was the end of the world, as I knew it, anyway.]

Cooking for 16 this year will be a learning experience and I'm determined to make it easy. While I'm a bit nervous about the turkey, I can bake bread in my sleep and I'm happy to have an excuse to make my long-time favorite roll recipe. These can be made small or large. They are perfect with jam or sliced for sandwiches.

Basic Yeast Dough / Crescent Rolls (adapted from Southern Living)

Ingredients
1 package yeast, active dry
1 cup water warm (105-115 degrees)
3 tablespoons sugar
2 tablespoons vegetable shortening
1 each egg
1/2 teaspoon salt
3+ cups flour, all-purpose flour

Dissolve yeast in warm water in a large mixing bowl; let stand 5 minutes. Add sugar, shortening, egg, salt, and half of flour; beat at low speed of an electric mixer until smooth. Gradually stir in enough remaining flour to make a soft dough. Place dough in a well-greased bowl, turning to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place (85 degrees), free from drafts, 1 hour or until doubled in bulk, or cover and refrigerate up to 5 days. [note: my experience is that refrigeration is best. The dough is less sticky and dividing the task keeps it from taking most of your day]

(If refrigerated, let return to room temperature before proceeding.)

Punch dough down; turn out onto a lightly floured surface, and knead 4 or 5 times. Divide dough into two balls. Roll each to a 12-inch diameter circle, rub with softened butter, cut into 12 wedges, and roll each tightly, sealing points underneath each roll. Cover and let rise until doubled. Then bake for 375 degrees for 12 minutes.

Try not to eat immediately but wrap well and freeze until Thanksgiving.

[I took this picture of Sam at the same time as the rolls...is it just me or doesn't he look like a roll himself?]

St. Theresa's Textile Trove

2009-10-28T17:27:00.003-04:00

I received a sad email just now - St. Theresa's Textile Trove is closing. I've written before about what a treasure the store is - funky fabric, Japanese fabric, African fabric, Balinese fabric, Aboriginal fabric, batiks. And then there are buttons. And beads, feathers, bones and anything else you might want to sew with.

I first read about the Trove in Kaye England's book, Quilt Inspirations from Africa. Although their fabric is available online, I read about how folks drove an entire day as a sort of pilgrimage to the store. They said there was no place like it. So on a cold February day I played hooky, packed up the kids, and we drove to Cincinnati. After browsing like mad, we ate lunch in a smokey bar adjacent to the store. I couldn't care less - I had amazing fabric for a new quilt. The quilt for my Japanese quilt also came from there.

The fabric stores of my childhood are gone. I am sorry to see St. Theresa's go as I can think of no other resource nationally in its niche. St. T's is not crafty or cute. It is an art quilter's paradise and I need to think about fitting in a trip soon.

If you are interested, here is the hours and sale information offered in the email:

Now through Nov 14: 30% off

Nov 17 - Dec 15: 40% off
Dec 16 - Dec 23 (closed Dec 24 and 25): 50% off
Dec 26- Jan 31 (closed Dec 31 and Jan 1): 60% off

Now that the days are getting darker earlier, our new (and final) store hours will be 11am-5pm, Tuesday-Saturday, effective Tuesday, November 3. We will still be closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Sewing a Book Cover

2009-10-13T21:57:00.013-04:00

I've been feeding the sewing muse lately. Reading the new Stitch magazine. Playing with shapes (like the enlarged garden patch coasters below). Proceeding to sandwich my Japanese quilt. Staring sessions with my Butler brown-blue squares and then sewing them into different configurations (will they make a quilt? a table runner? a bag?). I want to learn more about free motion, adding dimension to items, and dyeing my own fabric. Some weeks I'm pressed for time and just want to feel fabric in my fingers. And it's true--the stash starts talking to you if you leave it alone for too long.

Last night my play turned into something. I started out making a birthday card and ended up with a book cover (I'm sure the recipient will be much happier!). It was so easy that I did it without a pattern or instructions. It took under an hour which is a happy thing for quick-gratification-loving me.

Here's how:

1. Take a blank book and lay it flat over a piece of fabric. I used a piece I had previously quilted. Cut fabric around book adding a 3/4 inch margin. This is for the book cover.

[here's the front of my quilted fabric cover]

2. Cut another piece of fabric at the same size. This is for the lining.

3. Cut two pieces for the flaps. They should be the same height as the cover and lining. Fold each over so they're two-ply. See how they look when placed.

4. Make a sandwich: first the cover, then the two flaps (folded in half so the right side of the fabric shows), and then the lining. Right sides together for the cover and lining.

5. Sew all around it, leaving a 4-inch opening. I used a quarter-inch stitch.

6. Remove pins and pull right sides out. Poke out corners.

7. Top stitch, catching the open part. I also zig-zagged the perimeter to match the free-motion, sketchy stitching I did on the quilted cover.

8. Ta-da. It's done. Doing this makes me think of other applications–maybe a checkbook cover, billfold or photo album.

Small Thing of the Day

2009-10-13T10:01:00.001-04:00

Foodies and Fabric

2009-10-08T13:10:00.005-04:00

I generally don't watch tv but I've gotten hooked on two tv programs that I tape and watch during lunch. One is Diary of a Foodie (I'm crossing my fingers and hoping the now-defunct Gourmet doesn't ax the show). It is produced extremely well. Each episode is a sensory delight showcasing travel, people, ideas and techniques. My leftovers pale in comparison to whatever they're showing but then, I'm generally so absorbed in the show I'm hardly aware of what I'm eating. All episodes can be downloaded for free online. This grilled cheese recipe was amazing. Seeing Ruth Reichl is also fun since I loved her three memoirs.

The other show is Quilting Arts TV. I've purchased the magazine a few times but really dig the show. Each episode is equal parts inspiration and technique, showing me how to apply often-innovative methods step-by-step. Apparently individuals can create a login and view episodes online but QA seems to have issues with their site (there's a lot of resources online but they're hard to find and the login doesn't seem to work). Anyhow, the show is great and it would be appealing to both artists and crafters. The episode I watched today featured Jamie Fingal's "Heavy Metal Aprons" and Julie Fei-Fan Balzer's scrappy, quilted scarves (omg, look at this.)

After watching either show, it's no wonder I have a hard time jumping back into work. I do need to fit in some sewing time--I've been dreaming at night about fabric stores.

Readings...

2009-10-07T20:29:00.006-04:00

Currently Reading:

Housekeeping (Marilynn Robinson)

The Informant (Kurt Eichenwald)

[both are engrossing and hard to put down so you can imagine I'm not getting much done...]

Read Recently:

Black Boy (Richard Wright)

Wise Blood (Flannery O'Connor)

Franny and Zooey (J.D. Salinger)

The Sparrow (Mary Doria Russell)

[Housekeeping and the Wright, Salinger and Flannery O'Connor are on the reading list for a Open Yale course which is FREE online...I am making my way through the sessions slowly but surely]

Different Hotel ZeeZoy

2009-10-04T16:24:00.008-04:00

Summer has quickly slipped away and my little boy seems to be, too. He's growing taller. His face is fuller. He tells me things like, "I want to do this by myself and that means you go away." Before it's too late, I want to remember who he is in this time.

Favorite words and phrases:

Grown-uppy - acting like or being a grownup; as in "I will be a fireman when I am grownuppy."

Boobay - a word expressing 4-year-old frustration; as in "You are a boobay and I will not clean my room."

Beet-an-boss - unknown meaning and can substitute for several words (it is fun to say)

Favorite imaginary - second favorite; as in "My favorite color is red. My imaginary favorite color is blue."

When I am a fireman - during the summer Matt told us dozens of times each day what life will be like when he grows up and becomes a fireman. They were generally glorious, wonderful things. He also wanted to make sure I would bring food to the firehouse and we played a game called "Mom, please tell me what food you'll bring me when I am a fireman." Mac and cheese was first in the list.

Favorite friends:

Donny - Donny joined our family in the spring; Matt said he is 5. His father is a postman. So we've learned.

DeeDoy - DeeDoy arrived this summer. Once Matt said in the car, "Look! DeeDoy is out the window!" We all looked.

ZeeZoy - ZeeZoy, or "Different Hotel ZeeZoy," showed up at the hotel we stayed in during the canoe race. They apparently met by the garage elevator.

The Son - Matt calls his favorite stuffed animal his "son." His son is a green mouse with a purple anorak and striped shorts.

Favorite book:

Monkey with a Tool Belt - Judging from the library's copy, this is one popular book. Matt told his teacher he was wearing a tool belt, just like Chico Bon Bon, the monkey.

A Happy Birthday

2009-10-02T09:31:00.004-04:00

That it will never come again is what makes life so
sweet. - Emily Dickinson

I awoke to find a ruptured water header but no mind, it was still a lovely day. E stayed home with the plumber, making a cake, while I biked 36 miles under a cool October sky. Tuna melt and homemade potato soup for lunch and then curling up with a novel (before a nap). No work. No computer. No kids. And two large pieces of yummy carrot cake.

Hawk

2009-09-21T12:13:00.005-04:00

Just as Sarah and I were about to sit down for lunch today, we saw a hawk with the same idea. He was on the swing set, 60 feet from the kitchen window. E's good lens allowed us to not only capture the moment but see his magnificent body in more detail. If you click the image, you'll view a 1000-pixel version.

King Tut and the Honey Farm

2009-09-20T13:36:00.008-04:00

Now Matt is out of diapers, the choices for weekend fun seem endless. In the last 4 weeks we've visited: Eagle Creek Park for canoeing, a street art fair, an unusually cool farmer's market and the circus. On Friday night Sarah and I attended the celebrated King Tut exhibit (much thanks for the tickets, Stacy!). On Saturday, the kids and I took in a fall festival at a local honey farm.

Tut was more interesting than I expected. I'm not a huge Egyptian history buff but seeing the artifacts in person was dramatic. The gold and inlaid artistry was amazingly beautiful. What I appreciated most about the exhibit was how simple it was organized. It was easy to read all boards and the information was both fascinating to me, as an adult, and attainable by Sarah (age 8). While I loved the hands-on opportunity to educate Sarah about the ancient culture, she seemed most absorbed in the "spooky" aspect. Recipients of a special pass, we viewed the exhibit after the museum closed. This was very exciting to a child who's seen Night at the Museum too many times. However, she didn't seem disappointed that a mummy didn't chase us back to the parking lot.

Getting to Hunter's Honey Farm was half the fun. The trees were starting to turn and we saw a lot of them––we essentially had an hour's worth of back, snaky, hilly country roads to reach the Farm's annual Festival. It was worth it though. The farm owner (a teacher/beekeeper who is the son of a teacher/beekeeper who was the son of a teacher/beekeeper) first gave us a very informative demonstration of the hive. The 30-minute bottling tour was also fascinating. We saw honey removed from the hive, clarified, and packed for distribution. I often bake with honey and was disappointed to learn that baking depletes all nutritional benefits BUT I learned about additional by-products like pollen and tincture which we may try some time. [Pollen has 96 nutrients and is the most "perfect" food; it has more antioxidants than any other food.]

At the Honey Farm, Sarah and I remarked how different the Tut trip was from the trip to rural Martinsville. What a funny coincidence though––5 minutes after we said this, the Honey Farm tour guide said, "Anyone heard of King Tut?" He proceeded to tell us how honey never spoils and how archaeologists discovered edible honey in his tomb. Go figure.

Little People

2009-09-13T21:31:00.004-04:00

Our house is into "little people" lately. Matt can't get enough of his Fisher Price Little People. Once I showed him the Playmobil and Lego websites. Now he thinks my laptop exists for the purpose of showing him "the sets." Good thing his imagination is more abundant than my pocketbook and he also loves using blocks and cardboard boxes with his Little People.

Sarah's imagination has been stirred lately with The Borrowers. We've been reading it together. The vocabulary is more expansive than I remembered, the characters more complex. The story must be in Sarah's head a lot as she's always pointing out small household items that would work well for Pod, Homily and Arrietty. [Does anyone remember the British film version from the 1970s?]

Little people books would not be complete without mention of Mary and the Mouse, a charm of a book we discovered this year (from the words to the illustrations it's total candy) and Beatrix Potter's Tale of Two Bad Mice. The latter was a childhood gift from special family friends. I loved that book although I remember being absolutely horrified when the mice broke items in the dollhouse. I need to find it soon and read it again to both kids.

Apple-Oatmeal Crumb Cake

2009-09-09T09:14:00.011-04:00

I have two notebooks overflowing with recipes collected over 30 years. The thing is, I ignore many of them––I seem to stick to my favorites. Here's one we tried recently. I cut it from Cooking Light years ago. The recipe makes a small cake––good for a day or two of snacking before moving on to another new-old recipe.

Apple-Oatmeal Crumb Cake

Ingredients
1 c. all-purpose flour
1/3 c. regular oats
1/3 c. granulated sugar
1/3 c. packed dark brown sugar
1/8 tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. ground nutmeg
1/4 c. chilled stick margarine or butter, cut into small pieces
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/3 c. apple juice
1 tsp. vanilla extract
1 large egg (or egg substitute)
1 1/2 c. coarsely chopped peeled McIntosh apple (about 2 apples)
Cooking spray

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350º.

2. Lightly spoon flour into a dry measuring cup, and level with a knife. Combine the flour and next 5 ingredients (flour through nutmeg) in a bowl, and cut in the margarine with a pastry blender or 2 knives until the mixture resembles coarse meal. Reserve 1/2 cup flour mixture for topping; set aside.

3. Combine the remaining flour mixture, baking powder, and baking soda, and add the apple juice, vanilla extract, and egg. Beat the mixture at medium speed of a mixer until blended, and fold in the chopped apple.

4. Spoon the batter into an 8-inch round cake pan coated with cooking spray, and sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup flour mixture over the batter. Bake at 350º for 30 minutes or until cake springs back when touched lightly in center. Cool the cake on a wire rack.

Abraham Lincoln

2009-09-08T10:34:00.008-04:00

I have a weakness for children's books with pencil illustrations. Since my own childhood, I've adored the work of Garth Williams and Lois Lenski. Last year Sarah and I enjoyed discovering the books of Wanda Gág and learning about her life. This summer, while at the Abraham Lincoln Museum in IL, we discovered the partnership of Ingri and Edgar Parin d'Aulaire. Right now we are reading their book on Abraham Lincoln. The pencil drawings are fascinating and approachable and the book, which focuses on Lincoln's childhood and personality, would appeal to children age 4 and up. We are looking for more by these authors.

And, Happy International Literacy Day!

For $ale – Used Jogger

2009-08-31T12:03:00.008-04:00

It’s the end of an era and I can’t stop thinking about it. No, it’s not the end of summer or Sarah in 3rd grade or even Matt starting full-time preschool. It’s the baby jogger––I am selling it.

The jogger has gathered a few cobwebs this summer but thoughts of an impending sale have me out running with Matt. Pushing a wiggling 4 ½ year old boy is akin to running with a shopping cart (with the milk hopping around). But, while others may be nostalgic about baby clothes or cribs, I’ve realized I am sentimental about running with my children.

A friend once told me my children will have memories of being “whooshed” through their world. She told me this on a February walk with the kids. I don’t remember which child was in the jogger but I remember the snow was slushy.

The story of the jogger really feels like my story of motherhood. It was nearly nine years ago when I zipped 5-week-old Sarah into a snowsuit to run with me. It’d been a difficult birth but I was eager to get back to my design business and running. We both found joy in seeing the creek, bridges, birds, trees, and more in our neighborhood park. A bushy-tailed Sam always ran to the left of the jogger. On Saturdays we three ran with a running club. There was another new mom running with a jogger as well as two other golden retrievers. Life was good in Rolling Meadows, IL.

We then moved to Indianapolis, IN. The roads got bumpy for a while––I lost a friend and my father. I put my business on ice to work 3 days/week in an office. Sarah went in daycare and I ran early in the morning, in the dark, by myself. It took a while for life to even out. It took years before I discovered good routes for running. And just about when Sarah learned to ride her bike beside me on runs, there was 5-week-old Matt. For a long while there were 4 of us––Sarah on the bike, Sam to my left, and Matt in the jogger. I felt like Cecil B. DeMille directing way too many extras but we all had fun and it definitely was good exercise.

Now Sam’s eleven years old, too arthritic to run. Sarah’s way fast on her bike and I expect Matt to be on two wheels soon, too. What can I say? I have Empty Jogger Syndrome.

Like my work, the jogger has been my way to get out the house and join the world. I’ve wanted my children to see that grit and determination don’t have to stop when motherhood starts. I hope they are the kind of people who fight their way up hills––mentally, spiritually and physically––all through their lives. I hope we are always able to run together as a family.

There are not so sentimental aspects to the jogger, too. My doctor says I weigh the exact same as I did before I became pregnant with Sarah. [hmm…tell me why then have I outgrown my first running shorts?].

The jogger won’t fetch much cash, perhaps just enough for a running shirt or two. What else do I need? I have my memories.

Back to School

2009-08-16T17:45:00.005-04:00

This school year seems to have started without our consent. Between a reunion, family visits, and the mr340, we've been gone much of the last month. Where did the summer go? And, can this be the same girl? Third grade here we come, ready or not.

Monarch

2009-08-13T20:21:00.000-04:00

Lewis and Clark: I

2009-07-24T10:24:00.008-04:00

In Erik's family, "vacation" is synonymous with "adventure." And, the bigger the adventure, the better the yarn.

I should've known it would be that way with Erik. This year our adventure is Erik's participation in the MR340 River Race. In short, he and his best friend (from first grade) will be in a canoe for 4 days and 3 nights, racing from Kansas City to St. Louis on the Missouri River. For 340 miles. We will have yarns, for sure.

This summer race preparation has been a big activity in our house. Unlike many racers, Erik and his friend aren't canoeing hobbyists. Except for a Miller Lite canoe won in a bar 15 years ago, neither had any gear (or knowledge, I'll add). There were practice trips, books to read, the brains of outdoor enthusiasts to tap, and, of course, money to be spent. The kids screamed with delight when a shiny new canoe showed up in the garage.

Around June I was sucked into the mix. Back in January when I thought the whole thing would fall through, I'd agreed to be the boys' support crew. Now I had to put my project management skills to a real-life test. I dug my heels into schedules, topographical maps, and meal planning (with all the constraints of life lived out of a mini-van). Soon I will get friendly with a GPS.

The boys' goal is to finish on time. My goal is to successfully feed, hydrate, clothe, and medicate the crew. We all hope to survive the demands of the week while having a lot of fun.

We are down to days now. When we get down to hours, I'll start filling the car. Now that Erik has a new craft he doesn't want to lose down the river, he's concentrating on knots. Watching him last night, I was struck with the beauty of his hands turning the rope over and under. I laughed - it looked just like hand quilting or knitting! Pattern in one hand and rope in another, I realized Erik has discovered his handicraft! It was impressive and (I dare say) sexy. I'm wondering if there's a market on etsy for pre-made knots...

We may be obsessing but we've also revisited the journals of Lewis and Clark. Last night Sarah watched the Ken Burns documentary with us. For all she knows Dad is precisely revisiting the historical trip, complete with run-ins with the Teton-Sioux.

Maybe there won't be Native Americans, but there will be mosquitoes and who knows what else. Oh, I know what else - a BIG family story.

4H 2009

2009-07-13T14:51:00.005-04:00

We're having a very good summer. I'm keeping things as simple as possible. Most days the kids play from sunup to sundown. Most days I'm working in my home office. We meet up to play in the backyard, take walks, read together, and eat snacks. Everyone is happy.

The summer has gone fast. This morning we bought school supplies for Sarah who is leaving for her grandmother's soon and won't be back until school starts on August 11.

It may feel weird to fill her backpack in July but it does feel like Fair time. The kids have grown so much since last year. Sarah finished her two 4H projects this afternoon. For Clothing, she is exhibiting a pillow. Since she did Level 1 last year, she was Level 2 this year. I'll vouch that teaching machine sewing is easier than teaching hand stitches. The pillow was a breeze.

The Foods entry was surprisingly harder. She chose to make breakfast cookies. It took an HOUR AND A HALF to mix them (my Type-A self nearly had an aneurysm). They taste delicious though. All of us are now counting down to the Fair. I think next year I'll do a pie––I still can't bring myself to part with one!

Chocolate Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies

2009-06-17T13:40:00.005-04:00

I confess to having a bit of a sweet tooth this summer. For better or worse, I'm sure I've eaten my weight in cookies and pies.

I've had this recipe for years but it's lately grown into a family favorite. They're hearty and sweet but not overwhelmingly so. I like to make them large so they fit perfectly in the palm of my hand.

Chocolate Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Cookies

INGREDIENTS:
1 cup all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons baking cocoa
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon cinnamon
½ cup butter
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 cup rolled oats [sometimes I used old-fashioned, sometimes quick]
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

[note: double everything above, you'll love them!]

INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a small bowl, combine flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, salt and cinnamon. In a large bowl, combine butter and sugars with mixer until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla.

Stir in flour mixture and mix well. Stir in oats and chocolate chips. Drop by tablespoon onto baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between cookies. Bake for 12 minutes or until very lightly browned.

Japanese Quilt Piecing - DONE!

2009-05-30T20:27:00.007-04:00

Here's the new quilt top. The Japanese fabric was a real treat––besides the vibrant color and subtle designs, the different prints have different weights and textures. Some are loose or nubby or striated. It seems to work for me to choose fabric in a hurry. I bought this grouping in Cincy in August on vacation with the kids (Erik will tell you we were in the store all day but in my memory it was more like 3 minutes!). The Bento Box pattern is so gratifying and flexible I can see why it's so popular. Mine is the wall size which was would be great for a gift although I'm not sure I can let go of this one.

Next I need to finish piecing the bed quilt. There's another quilt percolating and of course I need to quilt the Japanese quilt...

Chalk on the Walk

2009-05-29T14:17:00.007-04:00

Our summer officially starts with Chalk on the Walk at the local library. We first gorge ourselves on reading material and then the kids draw madly on the sidewalk. And drink lemonade.

During check out, I was elated. I kept thinking, not even a $1000 Nordstrom gift certificate would make me this happy. All this reading––for free! And I can come back for more!

I'm in a reading phase right now and just finished Running After Antelope. I sucked it down in two days (witty, smart, dry humor, bizarre human portraits). Carrier is a long-time NPR and This American Life contributor. The book make me laugh out loud several times (this takes skill). Stay tuned for more book recommendations.

It's been a quieter week for me. Memorial Weekend was bliss––literally one day I gardened, one day I cycled in the country, and one day I sewed. Absolutely no computer, phones, lists, lines, driving, bill-paying, cleaning, work. I don't know the last YEAR I got to do something (let alone 3 things) for HOURS at a time without having to stop and switch to some sort of other task. I did finish the Japanese quilt top and love it but haven't yet photographed it. I also made traction on the other quilt in progress but as I'm not crazy about it and am considering using the blocks for bags to sell (it DOES look great in the bedroom, though).

My sugar-deprived children think the lemonade is divine!
Both kids were into drawing treehouses as we watched the Swiss Family Robinson last week.

Meet Alfonso

2009-05-25T20:52:00.004-04:00

On ONE occasion, I told Matt a story about "Hugo the Frog." He was sitting on the toilet (Matt, not Hugo) and I was desperate to keep him there. Frankly I don't remember much about the life of Hugo but Matt has asked a hundred times since about Hugo's livelihood and current status.

Saturday we met Alfonso the Toad. Apparently he is Hugo's cousin. Alfonso has chosen a cool and discriminating location under our Henry Lauder Walking Stick tree. Aloof as he is, he allowed Sarah's squealing and stroking. He seemed to enjoy Matt's tickling him with a leaf. He felt soft through my gardening gloves (I had to repeatedly take him home as Sarah kept abducting him).

It felt fitting to finish up our Beatrix Potter Treasury tonight with the story of Jeremy Fisher. I hope you don't lose your galoshes, tonight, Mr. Alfonso.

What We're Reading...

2009-05-19T08:33:00.004-04:00

Me: Where the Pavement Ends: One Woman's Bicycle Trip Through Mongolia, China & Vietnam (this is a good read, much living vicariously on my part)

E: Complete Book of Knots; Introduction to Paddling; Essentials of River Kayaking (do you see a trend? E is paddling across Missouri this summer)

Me + Kids: Welcome to Kaya's World, 1764: Growing up in a Native American Homeland (we've read all the others in the series and I cannot recommend them enough); James Herriot's Treasury for Children (we've been watching the tv series and reading the books...the kids have been playing "vet"); Giant Treasury of Peter Rabbit (Matt's eyes were wide as we read about Peter last night...Matt's been taking care of pretend rabbits lately and so it was good timing)

Iris

2009-05-09T20:08:00.005-04:00

The older I get, the more I hold dear objects I received from friends. The heavy white ceramic mixing bowl I received as a wedding present from my parents' neighbors, Dave and Beth. The teeny blue French medicine bottle from Amy. The fish plate from Marcia. The shapely blue vase from Suzanne. The thick afghan from Beckie. The kerosene candle from Claire. The Anne Sexton book from Maryfrances. The Debra Wald teacup from Jamie. I could make a long list... The objects are marked with a 13-year marriage of memories as well as memories with that friend.

I feel the same way about plants from friends. In Chicago, neighbors and I traded plants regularly. It doesn't seem to happen here very often. This morning I was delighted to see this iris open. It's from my friend Jen who shared some bulbs with me last year. I need to drive and see her flowers blooming, as well.

A Big "Mini" (Go Daddy!)

2009-05-03T17:48:00.003-04:00

Congrats to my husband who ran his first half marathon yesterday with an 8:43 average mile!

Hand Riding

2009-05-03T17:09:00.007-04:00

This is the writing on the hand that gripped the handlebars of the bike going south then west bumping over train tracks and gliding by mansions, running streams, leafy woods, inky black cows chewing at the fence, lurching up hills, zipping past a family reunion taking a group photo in front of a red barn at a historic farm next to more farms and even more farmland down to a vineyard which was kinda close to a road (marked on the hand) that was supposed to turn into another road but didn't to end up by houses with POW flags and rusty grain elevators and shiny fire engines and a big man who shook his head (and probably rolled his eyes) and penciled directions leading east past the flea market and the old school and then north up to the pond with the boat and pulley where I knew where I was and sighed and decided to toss the directions and get lost again east past tractors and sodden fields under undecided grayness and flowing with juicy legs finishing the 26 miles at home with a peanut butter sandwich.

Quote

2009-04-27T12:58:00.001-04:00

"One of the greatest discoveries a man makes, one of his great surprises, is to find he can do what he was afraid he couldn't do."

- Henry Ford

Little Quilts

2009-04-26T16:28:00.005-04:00

I am not very good at "playing around" as an artist. Maybe it's the time of my life––work, husband, kids, house, exercise––I'm torn in different directions. When I do create something, I want it to amount to something.

I am aware, however, that always planning out a project directs me away from the "happy accident." And that, of course, is where artists grow (and have the most fun!).

Today I gave myself some "play" time. I've been wanting to sew on paper. These are on Strathmore card stock (4 x 6). It only took a few scraps of fabric.

Sewing on paper was trickier than I expected. The fabric flowed over the stiff paper making tension work differently. The needle made a funny snapping noise on the paper. I had to be aware of not overworking areas and making holes.

This would be fun to try with kids or anyone with little sewing experience.

I want to do more with layering.

This one (above) may be my favorite.
This looks like the larger quilt I've got on the back burner.
Even a simple design can have a lot of energy.

Summer in a Day

2009-04-25T21:52:00.007-04:00

There's a short film based on Ray Bradbury's story "All Summer in a Day" that was done in the early 80s. In the story, children who live on a rainy, essentially sunless planet experience the sun for a few remarkable minutes.

I think of this film every year when spring turns warm. Everyone seizes the first sunny day as if there will never be another day like it. People pour out of houses into yards or parks or hop onto bikes or motorcycles. It's inevitably noisy with power tools and vehicle motors. Shouting children. Sizzling grills. There is a smell of grass. The sun is wide. Kites are flown for the first time.

Today was abundant in that way. After breakfast, the kids and I went full force in the garden. Weeding, planting, surveying. There was sunscreen and shorts. Sam-the-Dog (happy to have lived to another spring) stayed in the shade. We hoisted out the deck umbrella. Terra cotta pots. Swept. Arranged. I straightened up my plants like lining children up for a photo. Welcoming summer into our backyard is a tradition for me and my family.

Lunch was chicken sandwiches, pickles, chips and cookies on the deck. We moved to the front yard. The kids rode their bikes. Drew chalky figures on the driveway.

On a day like this nothing can keep me inside. We tried some downtime but after supper rode our bikes on a trail and then ate dipped cones before it turned dark. Driving back I noticed Matt's skin was multicolored: brown (both dirt and chocolate), green (grass stain), red (blood from a first summer skinned knee), as well as a variety of pastels (chalk).

To many more days of summer.

What's New

2009-04-23T17:50:00.007-04:00

What's new? What have we been doing? Let's see...

A visit from in-laws. A visit from Mom. A piano recital (and a duet with Sarah). A visit to a dairy farm. Solitary cycling on country roads (many more farms). Reading every single one of the American Girl period books with Sarah. A flight, a funeral. A fish dinner. Warm walks with Sam. New running shoes. A first sleep-over. Dozens of tulips in the front yard (I love seeing the light through the color of the petals). A choral concert. Spring cleaning. A day walking in nature with kids. Crazy busy weeks...then a breather. Reading every word of A Death in the Family (James Agee) as slowly as possible. Picking up my Japanese quilt again. Rain, sleet, sun, warmth, wind, cold (and sometimes all in one day). Freelance design work in Chinese (both Simplified and Traditional). Taking the houseplants outside to visit the sun. Obsessed with a crossword or two. Obsessed with New York Magazine. Chocolate-chocolate oatmeal chip cookies. Emails from old friends. Seeing old friends in person. Seeing old places in person. Traction on a new portfolio website (stay tuned). Watching Season One of All Creatures Great and Small as a family. A much-thumbed stack of landscaping books (new plans for the backyard). Removing the slipcovers on a couch and chair after ten years. Summer planning. Two birthdays. A new fire station. Getting things done. Keeping things simple.

Discovering Blocks

2009-03-14T17:15:00.011-04:00

My dad taught high school woodworking. The "shop," as he called it, was his haven. Dad spent many Saturdays creating fine cabinets as well as tinkering (away from Mom). If it was his element, it was my playground.

For my sister and me, there were many options in the shop. With the concrete floors it was big enough for roller skating. The labyrinth of bulky machinery was perfect for hide and seek. We spread out with markers and paper on the butcher block tables. The storeroom was a treasure trove of color and texture––I walked slowly inside, sliding my hands over rare woods, inhaling each kind. We drew on the chalk board. We arranged tools––vises, hammers, screwdrivers, nails. With help I used the jig saw and learned to turn a vase on the lathe. We marveled at the dust collector.

But, for us kids, the epicenter of the room was the gargantuan box of wood scraps. Jamie and I scooped out heaps. We glued them together. We drew on them. Nailed into them. They become odd sculptures or objects for our dolls. My dad was proud of this and keep the box full, maybe for nearly the same reason I keep my family fridge stocked with milk, bread and peanut butter. Dad also gifted blocks to parents, teachers, and schools. For him, there was no better gift than blocks for a child. It was like giving her keys to a universe of creation. Montessori teachers agree with him now and call this kind of play "loose parts." Sometimes folks weren't as amazed when Dad gave their kids a dusty box of wood (like he, somehow, had "loose parts").

I would be grateful for one of those boxes (or better yet, more than one) as Matt has discovered blocks recently in a big way. He plays for hours, creating houses, bridges, roads. It seems to be the only thing he does now that is quiet and focused, intent.

And, for my dad, the real gift would be seeing Matt discover blocks.

Hello, Spring

2009-03-04T13:23:00.002-05:00

Seeing Green

2009-02-28T12:31:00.004-05:00

This may sound funny, but sometimes when you work as a designer, the last thing you want to do in your off time is be creative. You've had the juice on all week and being fallow sounds pleasant, relaxing. Ambient. I've felt like this for a couple of months. While I can think of work challenges that have happily stretched my mind, I haven't done much sewing or taking pictures or strayed much from the routine (in my defense, I've been working very long hours). And I've missed these things. It just seems like I haven't had as much fun.

A certain creative someone must've felt the tremor in the force and tagged me and others in her blog, encouraging us to share a little of what we are seeing.

So today, while stirring some soup, I realized I needed some green and a little time with my camera. This is what we found. The creative energy must've spread because I hear Sarah clicking around, capturing all things purple.

Lent

2009-02-24T09:23:00.004-05:00

To be honest, I've never participated in Lent. I've wanted to but each year bleak February/March is more than enough struggle for me. In other words - I need all the chocolate I can get to survive until spring.

I also think we should be mindful in all seasons. The poem below is popular in Lent but worth reading and practicing all year.

Fast from judging others; feast on the Christ indwelling them.
Fast from emphasis on differences; feast on the unity of all life.
Fast from apparent darkness; feast on the reality of light.
Fast from thoughts of illness; feast on the healing power of God.
Fast from words that pollute; feast on phrases that purify.
Fast from discontent; feast on gratitude.
Fast from anger; feast on patience.
Fast from pessimism; feast on optimism.
Fast from worry; feast on divine order.
Fast from complaining; feast on appreciation.
Fast from negatives; feast on affirmatives.
Fast from unrelenting pressures; feast on unceasing prayer.
Fast from hostility; feast on non-resistance.
Fast from bitterness; feast on forgiveness.
Fast from self-concern; feast on compassion for others.
Fast from personal anxiety; feast on eternal Truth.
Fast from discouragement; feast on hope.
Fast from facts that depress; feast on truths that uplift.
Fast from lethargy; feast on enthusiasm.
Fast from suspicion; feast on truth.
Fast from thoughts that weaken; feast on promises that inspire.
Fast from shadows of sorrow; feast on the sunlight of serenity.
Fast from idle gossip; feast on purposeful silence.
Fast from problems that overwhelm; feast on prayer that undergirds.

- William Arthur Ward
(American author, teacher and pastor, 1921-1994.)

Small Thing of the Day

2009-02-04T13:26:00.001-05:00

25 Things

2009-01-29T10:13:00.000-05:00

1. I wear a sweatshirt at some point nearly every day that I received in 1989. It is gray and says "WJC" on it.

2. I have synesthesia.

3. I find the taste/smell of peppermint really offensive.

4. I love my work and have known almost exactly what I wanted to do since 2nd grade.

5. My favorite cookie is one I've made since 3rd grade. I have terrible cravings for it and make the recipe 1-2x/week.

6. In 7th grade I thought that although my parents couldn't afford ice skating lessons, I could still make the Olympics. I took a stack of library books (on skating) to the rink to teach myself.

7. I bake something for my family's breakfast nearly every day. Although I love these things (scones, muffins, biscuits, breakfast cookies, pancakes), I always eat granola (also homemade).

8. I am frugal and consider a life of simplicity a spiritual ideal.

9. Growing up, I was always picked last for games like kickball. I fell in love with running in my mid twenties and thoroughly enjoy being outside running, cycling, hiking and swimming.

10. I have loved fiber and fabric my entire life. In college I wove my own fabric and had looms in my dorm room (my roommate was very tolerant of the late-night clacking). I create quilts and sew handbags I design myself. I am terrible at sewing clothes which is really disappointing.

11. My golden retriever Sam is my soulmate. He's been with me for over ten years and until recently (when his arthritis worsened) was my running partner. He and I talk all day long.

12. I can't decide whether my dream house would be some primitive cabin in the woods or a loft in Manhattan.

13. I am not very girly when it comes to clothes. I love the kind of clothing sold in stores that also sell kayaks.

14. Erik calls me a shark, saying I would die if I were still. Even on a Sunday afternoon I am criss-crossing the house "annihilating" (his word) things off a list. If I'm not busy, I'm asleep.

15. I imagine I was the only 16-year-old subscribing to "Theology Today" (Princeton University's ecumenical journal). All my life I've enjoyed reading about religion and wondering about the why and how of faith.

16. Some people have a bucket of things they want to do in their life. My goals are more inner than outer, like being more kind, patient, wise, etc. I am sorely behind and would hate to meet someone less patient than myself.

17. I find the role of motherhood very challenging.

18. I feel like I'm ten again when I bicycle the country roads in my county.

19. There is a Luddite aspect to my personality. I despise cell phones and despite working in technology, find many gadgets "middling."

20. I find business thrilling and enjoy working on teams. My mentors are people who lead by practicing kindness, courtesy, dignity and respect - at the same time they are strategic, critical thinkers. I attempt to practice integrity in every moment with my work.

21. In the summer I make the best pie with fresh strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries.

22. I enjoy gardening and love the smell of fresh mulch.

23. One of my favorite things is attending the Indiana State Fair each August. I love the animals and am partial to the sheep. I hate fried foods and am the only one at the Fair looking for a salad.

24. I love reading children's books and want to hear the story and see the pictures as much as my kids. I am an absolute glut at the library and stagger out once or twice a week (most are children's books).

25. I took piano for 14 years and might've been a classical pianist were it not for excruciating stage fright. I own a piano and still love to play.

Optimism

2009-01-23T09:03:00.001-05:00

"One of the things I learned the hard way was that it doesn't pay to get discouraged. Keeping busy and making optimism a way of life can restore your faith in yourself."

- Lucille Ball

Writing Letters

2009-01-22T13:43:00.003-05:00

Sarah is writing letters.

For weeks she has been reading voraciously - the kind of "do we have to eat now?" reading. She reads in bed with her knees drawn up, her nose literally stuck down in the book. Apparently she got the idea of a pen pal from one of her books.

One evening (right at bedtime, of course) she told me she wanted a pen pal - and now. She had a vision - no cousins or existing friends. She wanted to find a new friend and learn about her completely from the letters. After some head scratching, I mentioned an 8-year old daughter of a high school friend of mine. Sarah decided S. was a good fit - only after learning she also has braces and reviewing her photos on Facebook. I put Sarah in bed and smiled to myself as I shut off her light. I understood her desire as I had had a childhood pen pal or two.

Apparently Sarah's light didn't stay off because the next day at breakfast Sarah bolted into the kitchen flashing a good-sized letter. I couldn't get mad - she bounced keen with purpose. She was on a Mission. We tucked the letter in an envelope and west it traveled, to Missouri. A return letter is rumored to be coming this way and let's hope it comes soon - she asks every day.

The second letter happened after she and I read a book one evening about a girl in the 1800s. The girl in the book had demands foreign to Sarah. "Abbie" couldn't attend the same school as her brothers and was expected to marry and not pursue her own career. This information was not as interesting to Sarah as the fact that girls had to wear dresses all the time. She decided to write Great-Grandmother right then and there so she could learn what Great-Grandmother wore when she was a little girl on the farm. "Did you ever get to wear pants?" a concerned Sarah began. Sarah wrote a similar (but shorter) letter to Great-Granddad "so he wouldn't feel left out." On both letters she drew pictures of them, holding onto their walkers, and her at their side. We don't get to see my grandparents every year so I'm sure my grandparents will treasure the notes.

The inauguration spawned the third letter of the week. This girl inherited her father's obsession to know everything about politics. She was absolutely thrilled to have seen the inaugural ceremonies at school and wanted me to play her made-up presidential trivia game (no, I really don't care that Obama used to own pet crocodiles...). Like I'm sure many girls right now Sarah has fallen in love with the First Family. After the evening news (with more about the First Family), she sat down to write Sasha. "How is your new bedroom?" she began. She identifies with the girls in the same way I'm sure many Americans identify with Barack. Sarah wasn't swayed in the least when I said casually, "you know, Sasha might not be able to write you back." That was okay, she said. It was her own way of well-wishing and welcoming her to the White House. Of being part of that very grand and historical moment.

What I find interesting about Sarah's letter writing is her intention. She has a ritual - at the desk, with certain pens, her favorite paper. It is evening. She is reflective. Her words are true - she asks what she really wants to know. Her words show that she is thinking about the other person reading and answering, and how they feel doing so. The process is not something she has to do (like how I feel when I write thank you's and perhaps the occasional blog entry!). Sarah is relishing the moment as she considers her words and attempts to spell them with her 2nd grade vocabulary. She is hopeful about the person and not just the letter. With the pictures she draws in the margins, she is picturing the person, seeing them.

What she tells me is that it is (still) important that we write people. That our words matter. That taking time to write is not "taking" time, that letters are a treat on both ends of the mail route. That letters can connect all ages and connect us to family and new friends.

What I like most is that she is loving the person as much as the activity. I wonder what it would be like if we all wrote something each day, to someone.

Nighty Night-gown

2009-01-11T20:17:00.008-05:00

Hello again. It's been good to take a break. I've been trying to keep things as simple as possible. It was work and family over the holidays. Both, so nothing else, if you understand. Saturday I finally got a real break from both. I was a real sloth, watching movies all day. It was delightful. I remembered how I need to slow down - completely - from time to time.

As you might guess, I haven't sewn in a while. I completed several quick projects for holiday gifts. My plan was to not start anything new. Then Sarah and I (how did we end up in Jo-Ann?) bought some fun flannel in an ice skating print and I promised a nightshirt. And a project was born. And, Sarah loved the fabric so how could I refuse?

Of Joy and Light

2008-12-24T09:51:00.003-05:00

Cranberry Scones

2008-12-23T15:29:00.002-05:00

With their tart red berries and sparkling sugar on top, to me these look like Christmas as much as they taste like it. We like that these are just sweet enough.

Cranberry Scones

2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for work surface
5 tablespoons sugar, plus 1 tablespoon for topping
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
6 tablespoons chilled unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
2/3 cup (plus 1 tablespoon) lowfat buttermilk
1/2 cup halved cranberries, drained on paper towels

Preheat oven to 425 degrees. In a bowl, whisk together flour, 5 tablespoons sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in butter with a pastry blender or two knives until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in 2/3 cup buttermilk until just moistened. Gently fold in cranberries.

On a lightly floured surface, knead dough gently, 5 to 10 times. Pat into a 1-inch-thick round. Cut into 8 wedges; place on a baking sheet, 2 inches apart. Brush tops with remaining tablespoon half-and-half; sprinkle with remaining tablespoon sugar. Bake until golden brown, 12 to 15 minutes. Let cool on a wire rack.

Delicious Reads

2008-12-22T07:40:00.006-05:00

Cooking was not my highest priority in 2008. I do make most meals from scratch but, working more, this year my motto has been "the meal that makes itself." We've stuck to what's simple and old favorites.

Now I'm sick of eating the same things and craving something new. So lately I've been thumbing my way through old cookbooks and some new ones too. I have these two checked out from the library and am reluctant to return them, they're so good.

I'm finding the Splendid Table's How to Eat Supper a reading pleasure, as much as a culinary one. It's chock full of facts and quotes. The book's typography is a treat, too.
Grow It Cook It is deceptively in the children's section of the library. Ha––this is one I want for myself. Each recipe shows how to grow something in the garden and then make something from it. The recipes are amazing. We tried the carrot muffins. They were fairly time-intensive but may have been the best muffins I have ever eaten. The book's illustrations and photography is well-done, with easy-to-understand recipes for kids (and grownups, too).

Middle Street

2008-12-20T19:45:00.005-05:00

In Chicago we complained about living next to a crazy lady who had 50-some lawn ornaments at Christmas. My years as a Hoosier must've changed me––I now seek out such low-brow delights. One place we visit each year is "Middle Street." Several farm houses go crazy with literally hundreds of glowing pieces. Tonight Santa was even present. All of it was tasty, even the candy canes we took home with us.

This girl believes.

Go See

2008-12-14T13:40:00.004-05:00

I am taking a break from the blog for a while. This should tide you over until I return. Have fun exploring!

http://explorer.quiltstudy.org

Cafe´ Aprons

2008-12-08T13:57:00.008-05:00

I love how Christmas gives me a good excuse to thank people who mean so much to me––especially the folks who have no idea that they do. These cafe´ aprons are on their way to three who have enriched our family in ways they can't imagine. I love the way the aprons look bundled up. I hope they will, too.

First Day of Christmas

2008-12-07T20:57:00.003-05:00

For my husband, who rekindles Christmas joy in me each and every year. Thank you.

Overheard

2008-12-05T09:25:00.005-05:00

Sometimes family conversation sounds bizarre, even in context. Here's a sampling (out of context) from the last few days. [Don't ask...]

"Did a monster fall in the toilet?"

"Peeing is good, but pooping is better."

"Do not poop in your bed."

"Don't yell at my poop!"

"I've seen bigger nipples on a cat."

"Is it Christmastime? Now? Now? Now?"

Small Thing of the Day

2008-12-04T10:47:00.001-05:00

Pears

2008-12-02T10:44:00.002-05:00

Pears have recently become the kids' favorite fruit (no small feat). These beauties are spending their days ripening, waiting for the moment I bake them into a pear crisp with spiced struedel.

Going to Kansas City

2008-12-01T20:33:00.013-05:00

Actually we've come and gone.

I fared better on the killer drive this time, sandwiched between a Julia Glass novel and issues of the New Yorker. We put Sarah on dramamine this time––without going into details, that worked out much better, too.

Each time we visit Kansas City, we think of moving back. After living in Chicago and Indianapolis, we discuss whether we still consider KC "home." What would it be like to move back? Would we feel like we'd gone "full circle"? Or, would it feel like a completely different place, like an awkward meeting with an old friend who had changed?

Anyway...here are pics from one of my favorite places in KC, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. My mom, sister and I took the kids Friday.

Sunshine on a Cloudy Day

2008-11-14T08:23:00.001-05:00

Unsung Heroes

2008-11-10T17:34:00.005-05:00

Every working mother treasures them. They are the unsung heroes, humble in their mission, elegant in their execution. We rarely speak of them––for they are sacred.

Like a crockpot, they do one thing while we do another. They are the underwire of the bra of our lives. The Zamboni of our journey. They are different for every mom, but we salute all of them.

Here are 5 things I could not do without:

Laundry Room Cubbies - Every single day this room is worth what I paid California Closets. It created a beautiful absolute––shoes? backpack? school papers? gloves? They all reside here and nowhere else. No excuses. Because Mr. Rogers taught us all so much about hanging our sweaters and removing our sneakers.

Quicken - Take my food and water, my clean underwear and put me in a Turkish prison. But don't delete my Quicken file.

Grocery List - Recipe for sanity: Mix one "what's out" list to one menu and one shopping list (arranged in shopping order). Stir, bake overnight ("did I forget anything?") and, voila, all week meals unfold like magic (except that Mexican pizza last week that refused to bake...). After all, isn't the holy grail of motherhood the meal that makes itself?

Franklin Planner, Classic - My head might write web 2.0 code all day but my heart is written in my Planner (on paper). I have kept one for fifteen years. Do you know where you were on November 15, 1997? I do––I was hiking in snowy woods (lost, actually, but that is a story for another time).

Dyson Vacuum - Don't tell Mr. Dyson, but I would've paid twice as much for this handsome hulking hunk of purple suction. If I do nothing else, a quick vacuum saves the house from evil and doom. Fur, fabric, lint, erasers, dirty socks, Polly Pocket dolls, leaves, raisins, small whiney neighbor kids? What more can I say?

I want to know, what is the wind beneath YOUR wings?

More Fun with Blocks

2008-11-09T22:27:00.004-05:00

Freelancing is great when you want to work barefoot; it's terrible when you need to turn off work. Even when I shut the office doors, it's still here, at home with me. And when I'm swamped, on the weekends it whispers, "Don't you need to invoice So-And-So? How can you be doing That when you need to be doing This? Wouldn't you love to jump into that new project?"

Yesterday I drowned out the noise by cracking open the stash box, and starting the Bento Box quilt. This one promises to be a treat--it's small, simple, and the fabric––oh my. Gratification through and through. I can recommend this popular pattern–it's flexible for both novice/expert and it is well-written. It's also perfect for fat quarters. Yes, I am planning future projects with it.

I completed two blocks before the kids found me. This is the fabric I got in Cincy. I tell you––once you start using rich, beautiful fabric, there is no going back. The delight for me with these Japanese fabrics is not only the design and color (which is exquisite), but the texture. Each fabric has a different weave and texture. I admit to being a true junkie.

My little colorful corner of the world, as it looks tonight.

Playing with Blocks

2008-11-06T11:56:00.007-05:00

I am making Very Slow Progress on my bedroom quilt. I figure I am now halfway through the piecing. Not finding much time to quilt or sew––I've been working long hours and have had strep throat this week. Making Christmas gifts will become a priority soon. No matter. I am happy when I can do little bits here and there. On Saturday I completed two blocks and was trying to figure out whether I wanted sashing or not between the blocks (still undecided, welcome opinions). I wanted to go willy nilly scrappy-crazy, with each block very different but decided to go for more consistency and faster completion. Blocks are 15 inches square which I hope makes a bold statement in a large room.

It's a long day, a long way into your arms...

2008-11-05T10:54:00.004-05:00

I've enjoyed The Innocence Mission since 1989. This video, of 5th graders singing "There," is beautiful and touching.

Going Boating

2008-11-04T16:25:00.003-05:00

Today I told Matt that we were going to go vote together.

"Boating?" he asked.

"Voting," I said.

"I can't wait to get in the water!" he said.

New Bag

2008-11-02T15:54:00.007-05:00

I practically threw myself on Cami last week, so happy to be in the store and see fantastic new fabrics. I haven't sewn for weeks (months?). Friday night I made this bag for a certain someone's 35th birthday. She says she never reads my blog (we'll see if this is true). It's in the same colorway as my quilt so now I'm psyched about doing more quilt blocks. I also have quite a few ideas for Christmas, if I can fit them in. Coming your way, Sis.

Pumpkin Carving

2008-10-30T22:04:00.001-04:00

Days of Grace

2008-10-30T11:33:00.004-04:00

"This is what you shall do: Love the earth and sun and the animals, despise riches, give alms to every one that asks, stand up for the stupid and crazy, devote your income and labor to others, hate tyrants, argue not concerning God, have patience and indulgence toward the people, take off your hat to nothing known or unknown or to any man or number of men, go freely with powerful uneducated persons and with the young and with the mothers of families, read these leaves in the open air every season of every year of your life, re-examine all you have been told at school or church or in any book, dismiss whatever insults your own soul; and your very flesh shall be a great poem..." - Walt Whitman, Preface to Leaves of Grass

This week we have colds and it is cold outside. My thoughts go to last week when we spent warmer days outside, in the leaves. Sarah and I cut plants back for winter. Matt jumped in the leaves or dug in the dirt. Sam, who is becoming achy and arthritic, barked and ran in circles. Readying the garden for winter - can we call it work?

Even on cool fall days, there is a sense of endings, of needing to things finish up. Like a squirrel with nuts, I become obsessed with completing my projects. Of needing to live life fully, and eat up, before winter comes.

Matt now seems to understand the concept of seasons. Waiting for the bus this morning, he crouched down to touch the grass, coated with crystals of our first hard frost. He tilted his head, "Is it winter now?" Last week, he stood in utter amazement, realizing the leaves were falling from the trees.

I am hoping for a few more warm days. Plants in the front yard need cutting back. Each year I hope for an Indian Summer, warm days I can open the doors and hear the leaves rustle.

Even with all the busy-ness, the colds, and my current bag of worries, these days feel like a poem.

Cheese Bread

2008-10-24T12:45:00.000-04:00

It's dark, rainy and cold. The kids are doing puzzles, reading, and coloring. I made cheese bread. Nothing in the world smells and tastes as good as this bread. Nothing.

Cheese Bread

2 packages dry yeast

1 cup water (105-115 degrees)

1 cup milk

2 tablespoons sugar

2 tablespoons shortening

2 teaspoons salt

1 egg, slightly beaten

6 to 7 cups all-purpose flour, divided

2 cups (8 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese

Dissolve yeast in warm water in a large bowl; let stand 5 minutes. Combine milk, sugar, shortening, and salt in a saucepan; heat until shortening melts. Cool mixture to 105-115 degrees. Add milk mixture, egg, and 2 cups flour to yeast mixture; stir until smooth. Stir in cheese; gradually stir in enough remaining flour to make a soft dough.

Turn dough out onto a floured surface; cover and let rest 10-15 minutes. Knead dough until smooth and elastic (about 8 to 10 minutes). Place in a well-greased bowl, turning to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place (85 degrees), free from drafts, 1 hour or until doubled in bulk.

Punch dough down, and divide in half; shape each portion into a loaf. Place in two greased 9 x 5 x 3 inch loafpans. Cover and let rise in a warm place, free from drafts, 45 minutes or until doubled in bulk. Bake at 375 degrees for 30 minutes or until loaves sound hollow when tapped. Remove from pans and let cool. Yield: 2 loaves

A Turned Brain

2008-10-23T20:05:00.000-04:00

"She is too fond of books, and it has turned her brain."
- Louisa May Alcott

It's great fun to see your kids take flight. This one may have inherited her father's penchant for reading for long stretches. Tonight she read Marvin Redpost for an hour and a half, not moving. I have never seen her still (and quiet) for that long. She got her own library card this week and is very, very proud. Her teacher said Sarah told her about the card 4 separate times.

Sarah's library card was a result of us hitting the limit the last few times we've gone. The kids and I are marauders, shrieking and flailing our way to the stacks (some hyberbole here). Books! CDs! Magazines! Learning kits! It's all too exciting. In the summer we visit at least twice a week. Hitting the limit is a little embarrassing, like we've overdrawn an account. The librarians (do I imagine this?) snivvle, like they sense our gimme-the-goods attitude. Aren't we supposed to do this? The library plies its patrons with "Support Your Library" swag. Aren't we just obeying? They are firm: we can't check everything out. We stagger out with our bags. At home we shiver, delighted with all the choices.

A Walk in the Woods

2008-10-19T19:02:00.000-04:00

The day started innocently enough. The promise: a fall family hike in beautiful Brown County State Park.

We started on the trail at 11:30. "Let's make the kids exercise a little before lunch," Erik said. Sure, why not--we'd had a late breakfast. "Are you happy?" asked Matt. Yes, we were all happy.

Matt was rearing to go. Right away he found a walking stick.
"Sacajawea" on the trail. She was both a fast walker and a curious collector. By the end of the hike her pockets bulged with acorns. Her braids bounced with her.
While the trees are still in the process of turning, there was stunning color in surprising places.
Most of the time these two were way ahead of Matt and me.
We looked for deer and other animals but only saw a bunny. We were probably too noisy. We clattered through leaves. We heard leaves falling to the ground.
After one hour we found our trail was correctly labeled "rugged" on the map. The map? Who left the map in the car? The same person who said we didn't need a map? Where was the trail? Matt was starting to cry. Apparently he thought we were only taking a short hike to a picnic table (he had seen me packing the lunch). There were steep ravines. Large logs to go over and under, thickets, thorny thrashing branches...
It was beautiful, though. We hadn't yet panicked. That happened after we walked back and forth three times along the horse path (according to one rider, "waaaay far away from the road and any trail"). Either we had gone off the trail or the trail was missmarked. A 2.2 mile trail shouldn't take two hours. Right?
Or three hours. Thankfully lunch can be where you make it. Matt perked up. Here, Sarah is still traumatized from seeing her mother squat behind a tree. It didn't seem to hamper her appetite, however. Erik's thinking hard: do we continue on the horse path? Or turn around, again? We see more people on horses who keep saying to us, "we never see people walking in these parts." Where are we?
I am carrying Matt who is so tired he doesn't try to hang on. This view makes me almost glad we are lost, though.
Finally, we hear voices. Cars. Erik leaves me and the kids at a playground, then literally runs up up up a steep ridge road--for an hour and 15 minutes--to find the car.

The kids play but tire after an hour. Sarah: "What if Dad never returns?" I remember the book I have at home on edible forest plants.

At almost 4:00 we see Erik in the car, happily listening to the Colts. We are happy to be together. Going home. The fall color in my own backyard has never looked so lovely.

Heaven on Earth

2008-10-18T21:00:00.000-04:00

It must be the end of the world--I bought doughnuts for my family. Erik did not believe I did, at first. He had to see the box.

I'm a wheat-granola-sticks-twigs sort of girl. My children are generally brainwashed. Matt will do anything for a dried apricot. Sarah will whine and cry for an apple.

I never would've considered it except Erik has been talking for weeks about doughnuts. Dunkin Donuts is building in Greenwood and he's all but parked his car at the worksite.

Since DD is still a pile of rubble, Target was happy to oblige.

It was worth it for the incredulous looks.

Matt was shaking as I handed one to him. Sarah all but snatched one from my hand. Erik shut his eyes when he chewed. They were happy. And, so was I.

Wonder of Trees

2008-10-15T08:37:00.000-04:00

Each Fall I am reminded of Gustav Klimt's "Birch Wood" series. Don't you think it looks like my backyard? Some time I would like to make a quilt with a similar composition, with the trees made of striated fabric pieces.

Having His Say

2008-10-11T20:55:00.000-04:00

Someone new is living in our house. He is small. He has a big personality. He talks all the time.

Actually, it is Matt. At age 3 1/2, he has started talking. In a big way.

We have been praying for this. We have been working on it, with therapists and teachers. It has been a long time coming.

At age two, Matt only said "uhh." Since it was all he said, Sarah even wrote "uhh" in pictures she drew of him. We attended the "Twos" reading group at the library; my heart broke each week when each child clearly said his name as well as his parent's. We were trying hard just to get Matt to nod "yes" and "no."

At age three Matt learned to say his name. This was good. You could see him working so hard. I kept a notebook of every word he said.

Then there were more words. He was much happier (no more biting at preschool). There were fewer tantrums at home. We could take him more places and do more things. He even slept better. All summer he repeated everything we said. He didn't initiate any sentences himself but we could understand his words.

And in August, he started saying sentences (I tossed the notebook). When he started preschool in September, Matt started asking questions. He was saying what he wanted to say, instead of parroting everything we said. He said "I love you."

This week, amidst family stomach flu (can you believe even the dog threw up?), bathroom flooding, and a dip in the family savings (that made me nearly throw up), he made an even bigger leap. He said "Sarah."

He laughed when he said it. The two of us were at Target by the deli counter. He said it over and over.

Matt has always called his sister (and best friend) "Doo-dah." Both the S and R sounds made the word impossible for him. The two sounds are still hard for him but he can approximate it so closely; it is like a lock almost ready to snap in place.

Home from Target, he burst through the door to run to her. Matt being able to say her name was a gift to Sarah (who barely tolerated "Doo-Dah").

It's been a few days now and he is still giddy when he says it. All of us smile when he does.

That's not all he's learned to say this week. He's had all kinds of sentences. They are like little pieces of pretty fabric in my head.

"Look at the engine in my truck." [I was so excited to hear that we went outside to open my car hood to peer in.]

"I don't want to be called Mattie." My name is Matt."

"Don't get near me - I want you to stay away."

"Do you have mac and cheese? I really want to eat mac and cheese."

"I want to watch the dog movie now. You know, the movie with the white dog?"

"Can I take a lunch in the bag tomorrow to Miss Dana's school?"

Each day there are more sentences, connected words. All the words.

Besides saying "Sarah," my favorite one this week is "Mommy, are you mine?"

Yes, Matt. I am all yours. I am here sitting by you, listening to you, waiting with you, as you do everything in your very own time.

Mediterranean Soup

2008-10-09T10:35:00.000-04:00

It is soup season. This is my very favorite - I love the mix of flavors cumin and cinnamon. It is a perfect soup to serve friends or yourself. The peppy broth always seems to help me when I have a cold, too.

Mediterranean Chickpea, Tomato and Pasta Soup

2 teaspoons olive oil
1 cup diced onion
1-1/2 cups water
1 (16-ounce) can fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 (15-1/2-ounce) can chickpeas (garbanzo beans), drained
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1/2 cup uncooked ditalini (very short tube-shaped macaroni)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion, and saute 3 minutes or until tender. Add the water and next 6 ingredients (water through tomatoes). Bring mixture to a boil; cover, reduce heat, and simmer 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add pasta, and cook 9 minutes or until pasta is tender. Stir in chopped parsley.

Little Rain

2008-10-08T13:55:00.001-04:00

We've finally gotten some rain. I rushed out to get Matt off the bus and brushed against this ornamental grass - soaking the leg of my pants. Then I saw all the droplets.

Emperor of the World

2008-10-07T14:14:00.001-04:00

"I had rather be on my farm than be emperor of the world." - George Washington

Trouble in a Fur Suit

2008-10-03T16:52:00.000-04:00

Favorite Thing to Say "Take me on a walk--NOWNOWNOWBOWWOW!"
Currently Reading Advanced Humping Techniques
Working On Exasperating cry for 4:00 treat ["if the kids get a snack, shouldn't I?"]
Ideal Day Crisp fall day with Mom home with me, treats, a walk, and a nap in the sun (with lots of stroking)
What's New Celebrating ten-year anniversary with parents on Oct 2
Current Toy Tomatoes growing in backyard
Latest, Greatest Feat Back to longer walks (and a spring in step) after a summer of rehabilitation
Big Love Mama
Cookie of Choice Peanut butter

Warm Gloves

2008-10-02T11:51:00.000-04:00

It's chilly in the house today so I'm working with gloves on. A friend made these for me some years ago and I don't wear them as much as I should. I'm finding the colors inspiring.

Happy, happy birthday

2008-10-01T20:49:00.000-04:00

Light Subtracts Itself

2008-09-28T18:23:00.000-04:00

"When someone dies, you don't get over it by forgetting; you get over it by remembering, and you are aware that no person is ever truly lost or gone once they have been in our life and have loved us, as we have loved them." - Leslie Marmon Silko

My long-time friend Maryfrances Wagner has a new book of poetry: Light Subtracts Itself. I got it Friday and have been gulping it down since. During the time she wrote the book, she lost fourteen close friends and family members. The book is not only a perspective on loss, but on rejuvenation and rebirth.

Maryfrances' book is very well written. It is endorsed by poets Gary Gildner, Denise Low and William Trowbridge.

Of course I'm also savoring the book because I have known Maryfrances since 1986. She has been both friend and mentor, in writing and in life. She was the first person I called when I heard my father had died of cancer.

It takes so much time and effort to write our lives down, in any form. But it is worth it. We need to remember.

Field Trip to AppleWorks

2008-09-23T16:37:00.001-04:00

At some time, every kid in Johnson County takes a field trip to AppleWorks. Matt got his turn this morning. It was a good time, for both of us, and the rest of Matt's preschool. The weather was perfect. We learned lots about apple farming; sampled apples, cider and baked goods; and got a tour both of the facility and of the fields. Matt was happy to pick two apples from a tree on the wagon ride. After the kitchen tour (did I say it had become more commercial?), I had to purchase cider and dumplings to take home. We've had their dumplings before and nothing compares (I'm counting down until dinner).
No one could've pried that bag from Matt's hand.
Matt loved the play area (with petting zoo and slide). That was one helluva slide. Too scary for me.
Matt's is still in his "bus" phase. He would've been happy sitting here all morning.

American Girl

2008-09-21T15:47:00.000-04:00

Favorite Thing to Say "Is it snack time?"
Currently Reading Clementine
Working On Making brother Matt scream; first cross-stitch
Ideal Day Waking up with a hundred American Girl dolls, and friends to share them with
What's New Brown leather boots
Current Toy Box of erasers (that have names)
Latest, Greatest Feat Making pizzas Friday night
Big Love Playing with friends
Cookie of Choice Oreo

Grilling Pizza

2008-09-19T18:46:00.001-04:00

We have been experimenting with grilled pizzas. It's cheaper than Papa John's (Erik's Friday night habit) and just as fast. I like how the crust is crispy on the bottom. We brush on olive oil (on top) before the toppings. Baking them on the pan makes them super easy. We made three "thin crust" tonight with a doubled batch of dough.

Sarah had a great time making hers and Erik's. Aunt Amy, she wants to know if this picture qualifies her for a job?

Here's my dough recipe. No joke––I clipped this in 1980 from a World magazine.

Pizza Dough

1 package of dry yeast

1 cup of warm water

1 teaspoon of salt

1 teaspoon of sugar

2 tablespoons of salad oil

2 1/2 cups of flour

Dissolve the yeast and sugar in water. Wait 5-10 minutes. Add the salt and salad oil before the flour.

We Are Having A Baby

2008-09-19T18:46:00.000-04:00

After all those seeds and dozens of blooms––one small (but growing) pumpkin. He must be very special.

Small Things

2008-09-18T15:05:00.000-04:00

Here are the (little things) I'm enjoying and/or thankful for today:

seeing the shed being painted--and crossing it off my "to do" list
knowing that although I've been working very hard (and very late at night) this week, I am working at home (and that I have work)
the smell of lemon on my fingers (I made a marinade for chicken this morning)
the lovely warm-yet-cool September sunny-ness
happy, healthy kids
good hair today
halfway clean house (being positive--there are dirt clods on the kitchen floor but the bathrooms are clean)
knowing tomorrow is Friday

Who Stole the Cookie from the Cookie Jar?

2008-09-14T20:29:00.000-04:00

This proves moms not only have eyes on the back of their heads, they have cameras, too.

Sugar Daddy

2008-09-13T21:29:00.000-04:00

Favorite Thing to Say Singing annoying songs in the morning to wake up the kids
Currently Reading Exit Music; ESPN Magazine; Strand Magazine; Atlantic Monthly; Shibumi; Five Families; Illicit; Best American Crime Reporting of 2007; Sports Illustrated
Working On Teaching Sarah spelling
Ideal Day Cool fall day, reading at home
What's New "It's Classified"
Current Toy Surprisingly, nothing to speak of
Latest, Greatest Feat Making dinner tonight for the kids
Big Love Hometown of Maryville, MO (and a Pagliai's Pizza)
Cookie of Choice Fig Newton

"Christmas is Coming"

2008-09-11T13:11:00.000-04:00

What's with the barrage of Christmas catalogs? Is it my imagination or do they come earlier and earlier each year? I will try to think of them as a reminder to get handmade gifts moving (yeah, right!). I will spare you one of the red-velvet Christmas wreath photos I looked at, sitting here in my shorts. One of the things I liked about living in England was that Christmas happened at, well, Christmas.

Did you know...Bob Hope amassed an 85,000-page joke file, digitally scanned and broken down into categories, which he stored in file cabinets in a theft- and fire-proof walk-in vault in the office next to his North Hollywood home?

This is the best I can muster today. Next week I start a series of projects for a new client so this week has been crazy. I've been wrapping up both home and work projects. It's always like this before something new and big––it's like I'm gathering everything under the roof before a storm. The air feels static-y with change and transition. The kids are thriving at their respective schools which is wonderful. It's good to know the chicks are fine while the hen runs whilly-nilly.

Today I launched a new site for a client: http://www.inphysics.net - INphysics is a group of nuclear physicists in Indy. The only thing better than having a project completed is having a happy, satisfied client.

Smithy of my Soul

2008-09-10T14:20:00.001-04:00

"Welcome, O life! I go to encounter for the millionth time the reality of experience and to forge in the smithy of my soul the uncreated conscience of my race." - James Joyce, Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man

Miss Spider

2008-09-05T17:00:00.001-04:00

I spotted this lady in the garden today. Given her size, she not only lives in the house, she has ingested any prior inhabitants.

About A Boy

2008-09-04T20:53:00.001-04:00

Favorite Thing to Say "Maybe later?"

Currently Reading Block City

Working On Potty Training (according to my parents, anyway)

Ideal Day Playing with "Doo-dah" (sister) all day at home

What's New Sandbox at preschool

Current Toy Dump truck full of cars

Latest, Greatest Feat Carrying heavy dump truck up and down stairs; saying lots of new words

Big Love Green Blanket

Cookie of Choice Goldfish

Raindrops on Roses

2008-09-04T19:31:00.000-04:00

What a relief, to see some rain. Not much, but it's some. The plants are parched. The grass is so yellow it breaks when I walk on it. The water on the deck looks novel, I can't remember the last time it was wet. I am inclined to go sit, barefoot, outside.

Denim Pocket Bag

2008-09-04T19:25:00.001-04:00

I felt a little sneaky, taking a picture of this bag. It belongs to Sarah's best friend and yes, I snapped it while the girls were outside playing. I thought it was such a cute quick (cheap) craft idea I had to seize the moment. The friend made it from an old pair of men's jeans.

Katydid

2008-09-04T19:22:00.001-04:00

What's Important

2008-09-01T13:48:00.001-04:00

Poverty

Ah you don't want to,
you're scared
of poverty,
you don't want
to go to the market with worn-out shoes
and come back with the same old dress.

My love, we are not fond,
as the rich would like us to be,
of misery. We
shall extract it like an evil tooth
that up to now has bitten the heart of man.

But I don't want
you to fear it.
If through my fault it comes to your dwelling,
if poverty drives away
your golden shoes,
let it not drive away your laughter which is my life's bread.
If you can't pay the rent
go off to work with a proud step,
and remember, my love, that I am watching you
and together we are the greatest wealth
that was ever gathered upon the earth.

Pablo Neruda

Small Thing of the Day

2008-09-01T13:47:00.001-04:00

Bike Ride

2008-08-31T18:15:00.000-04:00

If you fall out the back of my subdivision, you land, give or take a few feet, in cornfields. I don't normally run the country rides because the 60-mile-hour cars make me nervous. On a bike I feel bolder. The last two days I've felt especially bold, on one of Erik's bikes and, on a closed road. Movement has always made me feel free.Gravel is great fun with fat tires.
Go on, ride like a Girl.
I rode down the gravel road, close to the silos, but turned around. The road was a little secluded for me...

Another reminder I'm in Indiana.
Corn is beautiful, and not just visually. If you close your eyes, the swishing leaves sound like water.

The road ahead. Despite a very sore rump, I think I'll go farther tomorrow.

Black and White

2008-08-31T12:49:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I watched the American Masters episode on Annie Leibovitz and was really affected by it. If you haven't seen it, the documentary covers Leibovitz' creative vision, within the context of her personal journey. The program was written, directed and produced by her sister which created an art in and of itself, raw and real, like Annie's photos.

"A lot can be told from what happens between the main moments..." - AL

"This is truth...right here." - AL