Becoming Smitten

For Today

2011-06-29T11:22:00.000-07:00

Outside my window I hope for rain for the garden.

I am wishing desperately to go to the Decemberists concert in Vancouver this August.

I am thankful for quiet moments.

I am learning to reprioritize.

I am sipping a cup of Rat tea from tea farm and wondering if anyone I know is year of the rat.

I am being inspired by fairy tales and the Fables graphic novels.

I am going to Tall Tales Bookshop to get a monthly book membership with the hope the store won’t have to close.

I am smiling at the most beautiful wee girl in the whole wide world.

I am hearing the call of chickens announcing eggs have been laid.

Around the house lay ruins of what once was tidy.

One of my favourite things is my new mug from the market!

A few moments from my week:

And then there were three

2011-01-10T11:50:00.000-08:00

This is our daughter Penelope D. She stumbled into our life last year and sure, she had a rough time getting here (perhaps more rough for her Mama) but she’s thrilled to be around now! We weren’t as prepared as we thought, pre-baby you hear a lot about how you’ll never sleep again and how your lives will change and in your head you think yeah yeah I get it… and then you’re thrown into this whole new world and suddenly watching Fringe just isn’t something you want to do, and you go to bed at 7 and wish you could go to bed at 3 in the afternoon… only then do you get it. There’s this little person who needs you to do nothing but be there for her, and as a reward she starts to smile and your day is made.

She is now 2 months old and no longer cries non-stop, we are no longer afraid of her and life before her is just a hazy memory. Life is getting back on track, the sewing machine has been brought out and dusted off. We have high hopes for this year and we’re looking forward to telling you all about it!

Somethings Missing

2010-11-02T17:10:00.000-07:00

Our nursery is mostly ready, just waiting on the wee whippersnapper to come greet the world. We tried for mostly gender neutral, it's all my favorite colours.

Oh No, It's Not for Me It's For the Baby!

2010-09-08T08:40:00.000-07:00

The baby’s arrival is looming and bed rest is holding back some projects for the baby room so I’ve been forced to spend a few minutes (cough, hours, cough) on Etsy looking for the perfect pieces that, sure, the babe probably won’t give a damn about, but would bring me joy every moment I spent in their room. Now all we need is a winning lottery ticket.

Love it! When the babe isn't looking I could smuggle it into my room! Bunny Rabbit Feltidermy by Girl Savage.

Maple and Walnut Polkadot Rattle made by Little Sappling Toys.

The Duke Of NY Riding His Bike print by Matte Stephens.

Organic Cloth Diapers by Sarahs Vine. I don't think I'll be able to make all the cloth diapers we'll need, but we'll see.

Reupholstry

2010-09-07T10:28:00.000-07:00

Wishing I could do this. Found at Sycamore Street Press, made by Freshly Picked. Two new blogs I found while I could be washing dishes at putter speed.

Considering breaking out of my house arrest and hitchhiking to town to do some thrift shopping.

Go Crazy? Don't Mind If I Do!

2010-09-04T12:16:00.000-07:00

Let me tell ya, bed rest is not as fun as one may first be led to believe. There are only so many movies you can watch over and over again before it gets old. I’ve considered using this time to write my first great novel, but somehow all I seem to type is ‘All work and no play makes Becky…’ well you get the idea.

I have been writing out many many lists, furniture to be rearranged, clothes to sew, how to optimize our storage spaces, canning to try, what to do with the garden, recipes to try, furniture to refinish, projects for next year, colour schemes for each room, and these are just a few not even touching on baby or business lists. Of course when you’re trying to stay calm and keep your blood pressure down it thinking of all the things you can’t do doesn’t help.

So, what have I been up to? I am allowed to slowly putter so I’ve starter a few projects for the baby room. I’ve been hand sewing a flying pig mobile, choosing fabric for some old couch cushions we’re going to use as floor pillows in anticipation of all the time we will soon be spending on the hard wood floor. I sit at the table and prep vegetables for Matt as he fills up our freezer for the winter and tells me to sit back down and stop doing things. I gaze out the window at our chickens digging up bugs in the yard. Most of all? I sit and find beautiful things on the internet and think hey, I want that.
Right now I want this poster and I want it to be my lifestyle. Sigh. So bored.

What a Blur

2010-08-24T12:54:00.000-07:00

Where did I go? What has become of me? These are all legitimate questions, with simple answers. Long story short, we finally got the basement finished and rented out, though it did take a bit longer than we thought, we finished in May. Let me tell you I thought we would never be done with it.

But you may ask if it has been finished all this time, why have I not found the time to blog? Well, even longer story short, Matt and I are having a baby! We found out around April, before the suite was done (talk about extra pressure) and it has been a whirlwind ever since. We've got about 2 and a half months to go and I've been suffering bed rest these last few day and after twiddling my thumbs for hours on end, thought of my blog and how I missed it.

Yes, we have been doing the market this year, however my energy is not what it once was. Bread by Matt has been more of the focus for us, and Matt and I did start up a second blog for our joint business, called Taste and Texture (get it he's all about food, and I'm all about fabric...). Other news? We have 4 wonderful chickens squawking about in the back yard, who are encouraging me for childbirth. If these ladies can lay and egg every day, how hard can it be? GULP.

So, I promise to blog once a week, at least until the baby comes. And I am sorry it's been so long.

Oh Beaker!

2010-02-16T11:09:00.000-08:00

Something From the Store: Lentils

2010-01-29T18:56:00.000-08:00

These Cote D'Azur Lentils are one of the may things I've brought home from Plenty. I like their simple no nonsence black and white lable. Lentils du Puy are green french lentils, they were originally grown in the volcanic soils of Puy in France...thus the name. These babies are a product of Canada and I have no idea where they're grown. What did we do with them? We've cooked these twice now and mostly just winged it.

1 1/2 Cups Lentils du Puy
1/2 Cup Each Chopped Onion, Cellery and Carrots
3-4 Garlic Cloves
Red Wine of Choice
3-4 Cups (ish) Veg Stock
3 Bay Leaves
4 Cloves

Saute the carrots, cellery, onions and garlic in olice oil until they are cooked and soft and then pour in a rather generous glass of red wine. Once the veg is mixed up with the wine dump in the lentils. We didn't pre-rinse or anything, however I did search them for stones and such but these were great quality. Stir to coat them and then pour in some veg stock until everything is under the stock but not drowning in it. Toss in a few bay leaves and cloves and leave to a simmer. Season to taste with salt and pepper while it's cooking. Watch the liquid level and as it becomes absorbed pour in a little more as needed until the lentils are soft but not mush. Make sure to pull out the bay and cloves before serving.Beautiful color to them, hey?We served ours with hazelnut brocolli and cauliflower, sauteed beets and roast yams, as this was what was in the cupboards at the time. I have since made this with without having stock in the house or wine, I justed used water and added dried orange peel, fennel seeds, and cinnimon sticks, but I got to tell you, the stock and wine really give the lentils that extra umph.

Plentiful

2010-01-19T12:15:00.000-08:00

I haven't really mentioned yet that I have a part time job. Right around the time we were house hunting I saw that one of my favorite shops was hiring and I thought, what the hell, I could use some more stress in my life.
Plenty is "an eclectic emporium of fine foods and other goods." Pretty much you name it Plenty has it, crafts, books, tea, coffee, magazines, cardboard sculptures, pottery, random awesomeness... it never ends. And now for the last few months I have been lucky enough to be a part of it.
I thought it was going to be an added stress, but given the chaos the our lives have been in, it has been a glowing haven, a calm in the storm if you will. Sure I spend way more money than I'm making there, and yes I have gained an unhealthy addiction to the best brownies ever to grace the earth, but it's worth it.
And coming soon, I'll be doing posts about some of the foo I'm bringing home and how we've been cooking it. First up French Lentils, later today...

19 Days Too Late

2010-01-19T11:49:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!
Here I am 19 days after the fact, but here none the less and with one bag up resolution! I resolve to blog. Yes that's right fans (um, Dad and hmmm, Anna?) you once again have a window into my life.

Other resolutions?
To finish this darned basement and never think of it again.
To take more pictures. (and then I dropped the camera in the cats water dish...)
To hanker back down at the sewing machine and make some pretty things.
To make our new house our home, rearranging furniture, painting, flea market hunting, over and over until it's perfect. Poor Matt.

Also I have decided that I could right one hell of a Sci-Fi novel if I have the attention span to do so... I mean anyone could write Sci-Fi, right? And so I have resolved to consider doing such a thing, maybe.

And Back Again

2009-12-23T08:24:00.000-08:00

What happened to me? Where did I go for the last two months?
Well, we moved into our very first home. We are the proud owners of a 1959 bungalow with cove ceilings and curved corners (perfect for the clumsy) and a lovely backyard. In our first week we started tearing down walls in the unfinished basement to finish it, we had a big dirty thirties carnival night in honor of Matt turning 30, I got a part time job at Plenty (Pretty much the best store in Victoria), we tore down more walls, I did 2 Christmas craft shows, we had plumber nightmares (plumber on a drinking binge anyone?), I threw my back out, we learned the art of cement laying, and we became proud owners of a cardboard safari moose head.
And that about sums it up. I do have some pictures to show and they will come in the next few days, but I just thought I should give a little hello to the world as I had a few seconds.

Old and Beautiful

2009-10-19T09:14:00.000-07:00

I'm going through more of the pictures we took in France and could probably publish one of those jumbo coffee table books just with the pictures I took of old, withered cracking signs.

Procrastinating

2009-10-18T09:37:00.000-07:00

Today marks the start of what I have dubbed packing week and what do I find myself doing? Drinking tea and pouring over old desiretoinspire posts, dreaming of future projects for our first home. Sure none o these projects will happen for years to come, but I like to be prepared.

In other news I'm going to be in this month Poppytalk Handmade Market starting Monday. Wish me luck and go check it out!

Remember?

2009-10-15T10:22:00.000-07:00

Oh, I remember when we went to France for 2 months and had nothing to think about except what wine to drink that day... It all feels like a long, long time ago.

For Today

2009-10-14T15:38:00.000-07:00

Outside my window are beautiful fall leaves blowing about the road.
I am thinking about going for a stomp through some crisp fall leaves.
I am thankful for our new house that we move into October 30th.
From the kitchen we’ve been having delicious Thanksgiving leftovers… mmm gravy.
I am wearing favourite old knee socks with HUGE holes… how embarrassing.
I am creating prizes for Matt’s 30th birthday party, you can never be too old for goodie bags.
I am going CRAZY with all these things you must think of when buying a house. Building permits, plumbers, mortgage rates, packing, cleaning…
I am reading an Idiots Guide to Remodelling Your Home.
I am hoping to have everything ready for the looming craft shows coming up for Christmas.
I am hearing A Fine Frenzy’s Bomb in a Bird Cage.
Around the house are piles and piles of things I should be doing, boxes to be filled, fabric to be cut, animals to have faces sewn on, tags to be made, clothes to be folded, forms to fill out… oh dear.
One of my favorite things right now is the new show community.

Foo For Thought

2009-09-28T11:01:00.000-07:00

There's a new restaurant in town and it is glorious. Foo, focusing on asian street food, was recently opened by Stirling Grice, the sweetest server at Brasserie l'Ecole, and I am addicted to their potstickers. Totally afforable and ever so delicious go on down and have a taste, 769 Yates Street, accross from the movie theatres. Good on ya Stirling!

Gettin' It Done

2009-09-28T09:45:00.000-07:00

With just over a month before we move my to do list is through the roof, and let me tell you the roof is on fire (hehehe). Lots of furniture first aid, clothes to mend, clothes to make, becoming smitten to manage... the list goes on and on. I find the more there is to do the less I do, however I have been posting some goodies on etsy lately and have great plans to do it more often.

Meanwhile my list grows on. Anyone know an inexpensive plumber?

New Goods for Becoming Smitten?

2009-09-23T21:58:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's true! I'm still truckin along with Becoming Smitten and have even found the time to create a few new little badges. No two are alike each is a different organic shape and a fine addition to a jacket, bag or stuffed best friend.

Post 100

2009-09-23T16:09:00.001-07:00

Where did I go you may be asking yourselves? Well as a girl who doesn't cope with change I had a big change present itself and I was unsure how to proceed. What is this big change? My husband and I are now home owners. Yes, it's time to join the world of grown ups once and for all. After a week or so to process all the changes to come (mostly leaving our apartment of 4 and a half years that I LOVE) I have decided that the only way to feel is stoked. Do people still say stoked, if not they should.

So here it is blog post 100 no where to go but up. I'll be posting pictures of our new home and of all the renos that are in our immediate future soon, but in the mean time let me tell you, 'our house is a very very very fine house!

PS. Anyone in the Victoria area looking for a beautiful apartment with hardwood floors, fireplace, and a gas oven in an old charecter home on Moss Street?

The Pit of Despair

2009-09-13T10:13:00.000-07:00

I seem to have tripped and stumbled into a pit of despair. So many things happening all at once pulling in all directions and so this is me resolving to pick myself up, dust myself off and charge head on to all that beckons. And what better way to start that with the Princess Bride. Nothing can cheer up a gloomy face like Andre the Giant as Fezzik.

Here Comes Fall

2009-09-08T09:03:00.000-07:00

I have really been enjoying this rainy, windy weather that Victoria has been having. There is nothing better than sitting by a fire drinking warm tea and listening to rain hit the window. Good bye summer.

Fur Pile

2009-09-05T07:33:00.000-07:00

Look at all the work being done at the Becoming Smitten homestead. I've got my nose to the grindstone. Etsy won't even know what hit it!

A Vantasy Picnic

2009-09-04T08:25:00.001-07:00

We were lucky enough to be invited on a late summer vantasy picnic by the seaside the other day. Oh, and what fun was had by all. In the small confines of this van a delicious meal was prepared and served and eaten and most of all enjoyed. Some of our favourite people will be taking this van down the coast to the wilds of California and hopefully back again (please come back...). I envy the sights they will see, the food they will eat and the people they will meet. I don't envy the world’s smallest bathroom/shower they will be using for the next month. Follow their blog if you are interested in the sort of intrigue and excitement that, sadly my blog doesn't offer.

The Whistling Pig

2009-09-01T16:26:00.000-07:00

Come on, do you really want to live in a world that is without the Vancouver Island Marmot?

Be My Pen Pal

2009-08-31T11:07:00.000-07:00

After learning about the Mysterious Letters that were written in the small Irish village of Cushendall I have come to the realization that life would be better with a pen pal. These two people handwrote 467 personalized letters to each and every person who lived in the town. Some even got gifts! Each letter was a beautiful piece of art and now I have been inspired to write some letters.

There is a magical store over in Vancouver called The Regional Assembly of Text that is devoted to text in all forms. The best part is that once a month they offer a letter writers club! These ladies have all these typewriters you can use and supply everything you could need all you have to have is a love of letter writing.
No, I don’t have a cool typewriter, and no I don’t think I have it in me to write 500 people, but perhaps one person multiple times. I have atrocious handwriting but have lots of little goodies that I would love to send off to a special someone. Anyone in the market for a new pen pal?

For Today

2009-08-30T10:57:00.000-07:00

FOR TODAY August 30, 2009
Outside my window there’s not a cloud in the sky.
I am thinking of having an animal give away for September.
I am thankful for friends that let you drag them to an outdoor picture show in the dark and cold that none of you really want to see.
From the kitchen we will be making a tart today.
I am wearing my polka dot red and white skirt I made for my first day at the market.
I am creating 10 new animals for my etsy shop.
I am going to a picnic party in a van at the beach tonight… FUN!!!
I am reading River Cottage Handbook #2… Preserves.
I am hoping to make some pickles soon.
I am hearing Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young.

Around the house are lovely flowers my sweetheart brought home for me.
One of my favourite things would be warm bread smothered with butter.
A few plans for the rest of the week:
Make a few traveling companions for Late Summer Vantasy
Start a new Becoming Smitten project involving wood
Have a photo session with animals for etsy.
Here is a picture of a custom fox I am sharing...

Party Down

2009-08-30T07:30:00.000-07:00

I would like to have more themed dinner parties. Although more would imply that currently we have themed parties which is not the case. What sort of themes you inquire? Well, perhaps an 80’s birthday party for no ones birthday but with big poofy dresses, party hats and a birthday cake, or maybe a circus party with a kissing booth, bearded lady, caramel popcorn and lots of stripes, or perhaps a French party and we can view all 5678 photos we took in France with commentary for each pic (although that probably would only be fun for me…)

How to be Intersting?

2009-08-29T17:25:00.000-07:00

Today I googled ‘how to be an interesting person’. Does this make me a little odd and exceptionally sad? I’d say so. However I feel encouraged because it all sounds very simple.
The first link up there was a fellow named Russ, and what does Russ suggest, you ask? Well it’s 10 simple steps:
1. Take at least one picture everyday.
2. Start a blog. Write at least one sentence every week.
3. Keep a scrapbook
4. Every week, read a magazine you’ve never read before
5. Once a month interview someone for 20 minutes, work out how to make them interesting.
6. Collect something
7. Once a week sit in a coffee-shop or cafe for an hour and listen to other people’s conversations.
8. Every month write 50 words about one piece of visual art, one piece of writing, one piece of music and one piece of film or TV. Do other art forms if you can. Blog about it
9. Make something
10. Read.

Hmmm I said to myself, that doesn’t sound too hard, but will someone back up his claims? I clicked the next link and met Ernest, Ernest Goodman and he had a list of 7 things…
get a hobby, start a campaign, go camping, teach yourself something new, read a book, go geek (In this he suggests starting sentences with basically…,actually…or technically…) and volunteer.

By the third link I was getting bored and didn’t read the whole thing but Essential life skills.net said that one can become an interesting person by cultivating a variety of interests, taking a genuine interest in others, reading more, staying on top of current events, and expressing your informed opinions. They also have a list of how to improve your personality, but I didn’t feel the need to click the link.

Moral of the Story

Should you run into me in the near future and I keep going on and on about how actually I was just camping, and basically I’ve started a new collection and how technically it’s not eavesdropping if they’re shouting their conversation in a coffee shop, make sure to tell me how interesting it all sound.

Kitty Daisy & Lewis

2009-08-29T16:30:00.000-07:00

Nice 'after the market' music...

Sad Song

2009-08-27T12:22:00.000-07:00

Such a great music video, I would like to be best friends with all three of these girls and we could bake cookies and have dance parties every day.

My Hero.

2009-08-26T10:22:00.000-07:00

I justed watched this Handmade Portrait on Etsy and I am in awe. Mimi Kirchner is my idol. Her strong man dolls? Awesome. I am in awe.

For Today...

2009-08-23T09:56:00.000-07:00

For today, August 23, 2009:

Outside my window is a lovely wind and a not too hot not too cold summer day.

I am thinking of new projects waiting to be started.

I am thankful for yummy bread for breakfast.

In the kitchen a hot pot of tea is steeping for me.

I am wearing hand me down jeans and messy hair.

I am creating a new dress, if all goes well.

I am going to Prima Strada for a lunch date with my sweetheart and then... Inglourious Basterds.

I am reading the calendar… fall’s almost here!

I am hoping to go shopping this week.I am hearing the RENT soundtrack, Light my Candle.

Around the house is a mess from yesterdays market.

A few plans for the rest of the week:
Puppet Show for Anna.
Dinner with friends.
Silk Road tea.

Here is picture I am sharing that I took in Saussignac, can't wait to go back.

The Red Dress Shoppe

2009-08-23T07:00:00.000-07:00

Things I love:
Dresses check.
Vintage anythings check.
Shop spelt with the extra pe at the end check.

This looks like the place for me, my check list is full. I wish these were mine. This online boutique, the Red Dress Shoppe, is fantastic. They specialize in new retro clothing with vintage inspired styling. These dresses even have lovely names there's the Memphis Blue, the Bella Swing, the Sugar Crystal, the Clover and my personal favourite, the Metroliner Stewardess Doll.

The Feel of August

2009-08-22T18:51:00.000-07:00

Flickr is one of the greatest things out there in the world of the internet. It’s an unending source of inspiration. Here are a few pics I've loved lately. 1. English Summer 2. the mad tea party 3. cats 4. dream bedroom 5. shine like the stars 6. happy bike 7. Chaise de jardin

Dream Home?

2009-08-22T08:25:00.000-07:00

This re-vammped pigeonnier built in 1750 is the cutest little guest house ever! Would I be the happiest girl EVER if this was mine?? Yes. Would I stand by the top window calling my while pigeon friends? Yes. Would Matt want to live in a tiny castle with no kitchen? No, probably not, but I bet Maurice our cat would love it. Would I be willing to move down to Louisiana to have it? Unfortunately not likely. I suppose it is simply not meant to be... maybe I can visit. Thank you Apartment Therapy for finding such lovely thins for me to spend my hours gazing at.

Lost that Lovin' Feeling

2009-08-21T16:54:00.000-07:00

Okay, don't judge me but I have recently become quite tired of all our music, it all sounds the same and I simply needed a break. So my solution was to get something awesome to listen to. Now my ears are enjoying the soundtracks of Grease, Dirty Dancing, Top Gun and, to make me feel better about myself, Amelie. The urge to re-watch all these movies and all others like them is very strong and I am weak. Oh Tom, I would have gone to the ends of the Earth for you... sigh... I'll always have Maverick.

Animalia

2009-08-21T13:26:00.001-07:00

Love this! Animalia has been around for ages, but I still love it as much as the day I saw it. Mikel Uribetxeberria created this series by mixing pictures of animals found in internet with photos of places he's taken. This gorilla is by far my fave!

For Today

2009-08-20T09:12:00.000-07:00

I found this awesome daybook prompter in the wilds of the internet from the Simple Woman's Daybook Blog. I love it and I shall use it hence forth and life shall be simple. It's a sort of fill in the blanks finish the sentence sort of thing.

FOR TODAY August 20, 2009

Outside my window our neighbours house is being raised and built upon.

I am thinking of having a nap already… is 9 am too early for napping?

I am thankful for the cup of tea Matt made me.

From the kitchen are the sounds of Bread by Matt in action.

I am wearing oops, the same thing I wore yesterday… my new hand me down summer dress from Anna.

I am creating 7 new big animals and several new minis for the market this week.

I am going... well, today I don't think I'll be leaving the house but tomorrow is bread baking day at Cafe Brio.

I am reading Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell by Susanna Clarke.

I am hoping this hot hot weather goes away and I can break out my boots and scarves soon.

I am hearing drilling next door and Minisnap.

Around the house are reminders we haven’t quite finished rearranging the furniture and reorganizing.

One of my favourite things right now is the peach tart Matt made last night that we are going to have for breakfast.

A few plans for the rest of the week:
Finish reorganizing.
Assist Bread by Matt in his bread making
Work on these animals
Think about bettering my market display.
Here is picture thought I am sharing of my favorite #2 guy, Maurice, who hates the hot summer days asmuch as me. Don't worry I'm not going to be one of those blogges who's all about their pet, I just like that h's glowing in the morning sun...

Sights of the Market

2009-08-19T07:47:00.000-07:00

I love Saturdays. I love waking up early and rolling out breadsticks and baking off croissants with Bread by Matt. I love wheeling down with our displays and seeing everyone slowly set up. I love listening to all the musicians that come and play and help the time pass. I love Cutie Pie's pies and cupcakes that she shares with us. But most of all? I love all the supportive market goers that are so encouraging each week. If you’re in Victoria or on the Island and have yet to come down to the Moss Street Market, you are really missing out! Come on down and don’t be shy.

Lost Mojo

2009-08-17T09:40:00.000-07:00

I threw my back out a month and a half ago. Spent a lot of time weeping in pain on the floor, and have since found out it was from working. When hunched forward focused on the sewing machine apparently you are doing damage to your body. I've been mobile for a while again now, however every morning I have to ice my shoulder and neck and once a week I have started seeing Victor, the massage therapist.
Is there a point to my whining? Yes, I feel as though I've lost my mojo. I'm finding so many excuses not to work... So I ask myself, as most people do when in a conundrum, what sage advice would Julie Andrews sing to me if she was my mentor? Would she say be like the robin and sing while you work? Would she say find your own spoonful of sugar and make it a treat to work?
Would she sing my workroom clean for me? I guess she'd tell me to stop moping about and work through it. I like to think that Julie is a tough sort of mentor... I wish she was nicer to me.

My Favorite Thing.

2009-08-15T20:47:00.000-07:00

Been spending a lot of time doing my favourite thing... eating. The Moss Street market just happens to be filled with some of the most amazing farmers and the best pie maker known to man, we have been eating well this summer. It makes it even easier to eat well is having two fantastic cooks at your finger tips. My loving husband of Bread by Matt fame and Anna's husband Grant from Brasserie L'ecole who I believe may be the most passionate man about food that ever graced this earth, cooked up a storm last weekend... it was heavenly. Then finally my sweetheart treated me with a date night at Brasserie L'Ecole either the best or second best restaurant in Victoria... and it was all we could have hoped for. Olives, frites, good wine, great atmosphere, what else is there in life?

An Elephant, a Rabbit and a Wolf Walk into a Bar...

2009-08-14T21:18:00.000-07:00

We rented a movie last night and I'm pretty sure the video guy judged us because of our late fine of $40 for Repo a Genetic Opera. Don't bother watching it if you haven't; just becaue a movie has Giles from Buffy the Vampire Slayer does not mean it will be gold. Hey lesson learned video guy! In an effort to not be judged a second time I thought it sensible to return our movie on time.

So, with the moral support of Minto the wolf, Oscar the Rabbit, Chester the Elephant and of course Anna, I set out to return my, yes unwatched movie OTTO, with a few stops along the way...
First Minto needed to take a rest as it is hard work being carried around all the time so he took a time out with Anna, then Chester had some calls to make to Asia, and boy did those rack up, let me tell ya, and finally one must never pass a playground with out a few turns on the monkey bars..

Jailhouse Rock

2009-08-14T14:34:00.000-07:00

Don't you ever get in the mood for classic Elvis? I sure do.

The Conversation

2009-08-13T11:42:00.000-07:00

Customer: The last time I bought something from you I got your business card and have been reading your blog.

Me: Oh! That's fantastic. Which animal did you get?

Customer: A rabbit with black and white ears, but what I wanted to tell you was there's no more posts on it.

Me: On the rabbit?

Customer: Your blog. I'd like to read your blog but you haven’t written anything for quite a while. Why put it on your cards if you don't use it?

Me: (Speechless) Ummm... you are right.... ummm, I'll start posting I promise...

So consider me told! I am a bad blogger no more. I'm getting organized, I'm writhing lists, I'm preparing to be the best darn blogger I can be. Starting now...
ish.

Where did I go for so long?

2009-07-31T15:36:00.000-07:00

We went to Vancouver to see the Decemberists at the Vogue. The concert was spectacular. They put on such a great show and left me feeling like we should really go to the Treasure Island Music Festival. What did I learn you ask?
1. To begin with I am pretty sure that the band and I could be best friends if we ever got to know each other. I’m not one of those fans who says things like that, I just know in my case it would be true… right…
2. My life would be better if I too was in a band.
3. I need to learn to play the Xylophone. It is an oft overlooked instrument and I believe it may be my soul instrument.
4. People that listen to the Decemberists have great fashion sense. At least the women. It’s unique and colourful and lovely.
5. The Decemberists sound even better (if possible) when they’re load and live.

Yes, I have become even more smitten.

Well It's About Time!

2009-07-31T15:19:00.000-07:00

I have finally found what has been missing in my life, someone to sit in my home and harass me until I have accomplished something. The end product? Five, that's right 5 new items in my etsy shop. I'm really happy with my photos; I upended our table and shoved our old dresser against it then threw in a pinecone for good measure. I even got my hands on a natural lamp for the perfect lighting. It just takes so long, but no my loyal friend sat behind me (doing the dishes and making smitten buttons no less) until there was an end result. Yep, lazy procrastinators all across the land should all have such a friend.

Paper Cranes Bring Joy

2009-07-21T09:24:00.000-07:00

I've decided to take the week off sewing as it turns out sewing is ruining my neck, making it hard to move (not fun). So I'm making a paper crane mobile out of old maps. This way when I'm bedridden I can gaze up at these little guys and they will bring me joy.

A Post-It Love Story

2009-07-19T12:58:00.000-07:00

Seriously. I love post-its.

Art Collecting

2009-07-16T10:51:00.000-07:00

Yes, even the poor can have beautiful things surrounding them. Some art doesn't cost thousands of dollars. Lately I have been blessed to have Vil beside me at the Moss Street Market. Her art is quirky, colourful and amazing. This is the most talented artist EVER!!! So we're pretty much buying one every week as it is all under priced. And she is just as awesome as her art is! Example... you my have seen my sweetheart biking around sporting a new bike trailer which she graciously gave us as she is *sob sob* leaving the province. Anyway, check it out, Disco Bunnies and Pelican (which I've been calling Pelicant because I'm so very very funny)

Now I can't brag about my beautiful art painted by beautiful people without mentioning Rachel Ann Austin. I was beside her at the One of a Kind Vancouver show this last November and felt like I was meeting a celebrity as I stocked her online every chance I got... not that I do that sort of thing...

It worked out well as Matt loves anything map related and I love anything pretty so we scored and every day it brings me joy.

Moral of this story boys and girls, find yourselves some local artist to support and to bring you joy.

I wish I wish I wish

2009-07-15T18:39:00.000-07:00

I wish I had an extra $230 US kicking around because how amazing would this music festival be. I suppose I could go without my husband, cut that cost in half...

Oh No!

2009-07-14T13:03:00.000-07:00

Yes, you may have noticed the new link to the side, it has finally happened...

I joined facebook.

All I can say for myself is it seemed like a good idea at the time. Now my newest and shiney-est friend has created a Becoming Smitten fan page. And I have 9 fans. Yep, already addicted to facebook. What will my husband say when he gets home to find me glued to the computer.

On another note I managed to take some time off from making things to sell to design 2 new animals for some dear friends. I made a penguin in the wedding colors offriends who got married July 4th and a panda for my shiney friend who comes and helps me cut out fabric and make smitten buttons.

Focus Focus Focus

2009-07-13T11:30:00.000-07:00

I have ever so much to do but all I seem capable of today is daydreaming out the window. The sun is coming out and the wind is nice and breezy… perfect for kicking off the shoes and gazing up into trees at the park.

Old Time's

2009-07-13T11:16:00.000-07:00

This music video is from Whispertown 2000's latest album, "Swim". I find it just charming o a day like today.

All I want for Christmas

2009-07-09T15:12:00.000-07:00

Found this video on a new favorite time wasting blog. They call it printing porn. I call it all that I am now living for. Is it too soon to start writing Santa?

Shame and Blame!

2009-07-07T21:08:00.000-07:00

Well, it’s been exactly 2 months since we got back from France and about the same amount of time since I last blogged, SHAMEFUL!!! So sorry for abandoning you. But it hasn’t been all fun and games for me, as 3 days after I got back, I started again at the Moss Street Market. I’ve been busy trying to get my stock back up and the market-goers haven’t made it easy on me, as they are buying almost as fast as I can sew. Yes it's a burden I can live with. It has been really nice to see the familiar faces on Saturday, and if you haven’t made it to the market yet this year, be sure to stop by and say hi when you do.

If you have stopped by my booth in the last few weeks, you may have noticed the handsome gentleman taking up half of my space. My husband Matt has been selling his delicious bread on Saturdays, and luckily the market coordinators didn’t have a problem with us sharing the same space! So now market time is also quality husband and wife time too.

I sill have a few thousand pictures to go through from the trip so as I will be posting the odd 'wish I was still there' blog in the weeks, months... years to follow.

Depressed

2009-05-01T12:46:00.000-07:00

Spent the day packing up, getting ready to come home. We leave for Bordeaux tomorrow morning, then for home in 5 days. Yes, right now I am in a pit of dispare. Its a hard life we live.

A Chefs Garden

2009-05-01T12:21:00.000-07:00

There is no garden I prefer more than a wild garden and everything here is just that... wild. And ever so beautiful.

Rain Day

2009-04-28T09:47:00.000-07:00

Getting caught up with putting pictures on my Flickr page, don't forget to go have a peek!

Bliss

2009-04-28T08:13:00.000-07:00

We have fallen into bliss.

The gitè we are staying in has been filled with the wines of the vineyards and we have been told to help ourselves (and pay for it later). Trouble is the wines are so good. We didn’t even know when we booked that Saussignac was an appellation for dessert wines, which is of course my weakness in wine.

The dangers here are many; surprised peckings from disgruntled chickens, lizards lurking around every corner, and Dora, the 6 month old puppy still being trained not to jump on those wearing white.

Grand Cru

2009-04-26T04:25:00.000-07:00

In 1855 Napoleon III decided that those wines in Bordeaux that were most sought after and obviously the best should be classified as such. These wines were called the French Grand Cru and all of the red wines that made it on the list came from the Médoc region. And it was Mèdoc that we traveled to with our host Coaroline to taste the best of the best. The two vineyards we stopped at were Chateau Palmer, in the third class of Grand Cru, and Château Pichon Longueville Baron, in the second class of the Grand Cru.

At our first stop we tasted a 1996 Chateau Palmer (a bottle of which would set you back 165 Euros, and it would be worth every penny) as well as their secondary wine a 2006 Alter Ego de Palmer (only running at 55 Euros). Both were amazing.

At Château Pichon, we tried all three of their 2004 wines. But before the tasting we were taken on a fantastic tour of their grounds. It was like we were in a James Bond movie. The Chateau guide was so passionate and the wine was so mindblowingly good, we were quickly convinced we needed to bring home a bottle of their wine. Don’t worry, we only have to 10 more years or so before we can have some.

Sticks and Stones: The Beauty of French Homes

2009-04-26T04:07:00.000-07:00

I have become somewhat obsessed with the old stone walls, painted shutters and worn wood. I’ve managed to create a whole series all the doors, windows and walls we have seen.

Walks to Remember

2009-04-24T06:25:00.000-07:00

We're in Saussignac, France. It's almost the most perfect place I've ever been. Our home for two weeks is a 25 acre organic vineyard. We're surrounded by walking routes linking up all the vineyards, and boy are there lots of vineyards. It's heartbreaking to think that we have almost reached the end of our adventure.

Zombie Invasion

2009-04-19T07:30:00.000-07:00

Yes, this is where I would chose to be in the event of a Zombie attack. Those of you who have read World War Z or The Walking Dead will know about the importance of strong walls and high ground.
From the window of our place we could see 3 other castles on the surrounding hillsides, all overlooking the valley. We did tear ourselves away from our fortress to go and wander around the 19th fairy ale gardens of Chateau Marqueyssac. 150,000 sculptured boxwoods surround the Chateau, whose grounds are populated with Peacocks, lizards, pigeons and one wandering goat. In the middle of the maze you feel like you’re in Alice in Wonderland.

Stone Walls

2009-04-19T07:12:00.000-07:00

The apartment was a great change from Paris. We stayed in an old stone house with an old worn patio overlooking the river, stone walls, steam shower, and best of all no futon (not that the futon was all that bad, there’s just something to be said for a mattress).
Spent the whole week reading and wandering thru the town, beside the river and in the castle. Our host, Madame Portier, was a wonderful lady; she was short and stout with white honey hair. She didn’t speak any English, so I got some good French practice. Most days we would walk to the local charcuterie shop and try some of his wares. My favourite was his dried sausage called Rosette. The only downside of the week was when I lost my newly purchased Parisian scarf. I am convinced that the older gentleman who served us lunch noticed its beauty and claimed it as his own.

Beynac, France

2009-04-18T09:52:00.000-07:00

I fell off the grid for a week in Beynac, the tiny medieval town on a cliff. Everything is the colour of honey, from the cobblestone streets, the old stone houses and even our fat fluffy flat mate Julie. Although we had no car the castles were well within wandering distance of each other. Crazy to think that during the hundred years war some of the castles were controlled by the French, some by the English and yet they were all close enough to pop next door to borrow a cup of sugar and some eggs. The Dordogne River was full of swans and river rat tour boats like Johnny Depp’s in Chocolate.
You can see why we fell away from reality for a while.

Goodbye Paris, Hello Bordeaux

2009-04-10T13:46:00.000-07:00

Paris Photo Day 29
Our train was early so no time to do much but remake our futon bed that was our home for 29 days and say goodbye Paris. Next up Bordeaux, hopefully our sleeping arrangements will be more comfortable than our Paris futon.

Not so Mini Tower

2009-04-10T13:43:00.000-07:00

Paris Photo Day 28
Our last full day in Paris was spent with me packing and cleaning our apartment while my poor husband lay on his deathbed with what turned out to be just a cold and a sore throat. We did of course manage a walk to the Eiffel Tower to watch it sparkle. Yes, it really sparkles! I really love this tower, I even bought one of those tacky (but not that tacky) mini Eiffel Towers.

The Fabric District

2009-04-10T13:37:00.001-07:00

Paris Photo Day 27
To try to work off all the croissants and brioche, we climbed the Sacre Coeur steps twice a day and it was always such a spectacular view every time. From here you can see the highlight of the fabric district, that lovely blue building which is the same blue as our kitchen back home.

Princess for a Day

2009-04-10T13:35:00.001-07:00

Paris Photo Day 26
One of my shameful, shameful secrets is I love Disneyland. So how could we not leave Paris for a day and seek joy and adventure in Euro Disney? It was crowded for a Monday, and we had to wait in line for 2 hours just to get obscenely expensive tickets, but it was worth it. Disneyland is marvellous!

Golden Green

2009-04-10T13:32:00.001-07:00

Paris Photo Day 25
The trees lining the Seine are an amazing golden green that wasn’t turning up for any day time pics I took. Luckily on an evening stroll a riverboat came by with annoyingly bright high beams on which backlit them perfectly.

Smile and Nod

2009-04-10T13:28:00.001-07:00

Paris Photo Day 24
On the top of the hill overlooking all of Paris both locals and tourists unite every night to gaze at the city. As long as we didn’t speak, we were thought to be locals.

Protector of Pigeons

2009-04-10T13:23:00.000-07:00

Paris Photo Day 23
So we’re strolling down a ramp to walk beside the river and there in our path is a menacing group of pigeons. Instantly we know what must be done. We had to run as fast as we could thru them, so we did. Little did we know that these pigeons were guarded by one of the many crazy drunk frenchmen of Paris, who came out of his cubby in the wall to chase us with his cane cursing loudly. So, we snuck back around to take his picture.

The Golden Snail

2009-04-10T13:02:00.000-07:00

Paris Photo Day 22
Found a great street market near les halles metro stop, and this golden beauty above l’Escargot Montorgueil really reminded me of the snail from the second or third Never-ending Story that pals around with the rock man. Those movies are such good times!

Cyclops

2009-04-07T11:41:00.000-07:00

This stunner is in the Luxembourg Gardens and is perched atop a fountain. The Luxembourg Gardens have over 80 sculptures but this guy was by far my favourite. Paris Photo of Day 21.

Graveyard #2

2009-04-07T11:29:00.000-07:00

There are three big graveyards in Paris, and this is graveyard #2, the name has just escaped me. No, it's not the one with Van Morrison. This particular grave had lost its name due to the fact that a huge tree was now growing out of it. Up close it was beautiful, and so it's my Paris Photo of the Day for day 20.

Splash!

2009-04-07T11:20:00.000-07:00

The bad news is that I left my camera at home for day 18 in Paris, the good news is that it won't happen again!
This is my pick of the day for day 19 in Paris.
We went for an evening stroll along the river and when the sunset hit the water it looked like gold. This was the night that we decided to take a romantic boat cruise. It's the only really tourist thing we'd done so far (since this was taken we did hit up Euro Disney, more to come later), and our romantic cruise ended up being shared with a few dozen tourists, so not as romantic as you'd hope. Never the less, it really is a lovely river.

Fit For a King

2009-04-02T12:30:00.000-07:00

Paris Photo of Day 17
We went to Versailles with our last day of our 6 day museum pass, which happened to be the coldest day of the week. We had been blessed with blue skies for the most part, but the one day we needed the weather to be on its best behaviour we were full of disappointment. We braved the random storms in a golf cart to zip around the grounds, became soaking wet, and I'm pretty sure I caught hypothermia, but it really was lovely.

All a Blur

2009-04-02T12:25:00.000-07:00

Photo of the Day 16
I don't know what it is but they really love their stairs here. I love this picture ever so much! We were at the top of the Arc du Triumph on a blustery, cold sort of night, and were more than exhausted after a long day of museums, yet some how found the energy to climb all 370ish stairs up there. Sure I took a lot of clear shots of the city, but this one... it's my favourite.

Picassos Museam

2009-04-02T12:00:00.000-07:00

Pic of Day 15
I know this may not be the most exciting picture in the world, but I was quickly scolded for taking pictures in this museum and forced to put my camera away after sneaking a handful of blurry pics. The Picasso Museum renewed my respect for him, everything looks so different up close.

Meanwhile Back at the Ranch

2009-04-02T11:49:00.000-07:00

The bright lights in the big city have caused to to temporarily forget all my excitement back home. Anyone in the Victoria region should be sure to pop in to the two local stores that are now carrying my animals! The Good Planet Baby Company on 1005 Broad Street ordered some just the week before we flew off. They we kind enough to send me a few pictures of my little guys out for all to love them.
As well, one of my husband favorite shops Plenty, on Fort Street, are displaying a few animals for their Easter window display. They even went so far as to do up the press release below. My favorite part? Rebecca Glynn (currently in Paris).
If you manage to stop into either shop drop me a line and let me know how the look!

Press Release: March 25th, 2009

FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY

Vancouver Island Marmot featured at Local Specialty Food Store!

WHERE: Plenty Epicurean Pantry, 1034 Fort Street

WHEN: March 15th – April 15th 2009

WHAT: Plenty epicurean pantry welcomes a collection of finely crafted stuffed animals. Each animal is handmade in Victoria, B.C. by Rebecca Glynn of Smitten Studio and represents an endangered species.

CONTACTS: Trevor Walker, Plenty Epicurean Pantry, 380-7654, trevor@epicureanpantry.ca;

Rebecca Glynn (currently in Paris): http://www.becomingsmitten.blogspot.com/ COST: $55 each, includes a description, smitten pin, and tote bag.

Smitten Studio: All of the animals in Smitten are made with organic linen and recycled fabrics.

Each animal created is based on one listed on the IUCN endangered species Red List. Rebecca started out by featuring animals found close to home in British Columbia and she has since expanded her focus to include endangered animals from around the world.

We are very pleased at Plenty to be caring for some wonderful animals while their creator, Rebecca Glynn of Smitten Studio, explores Paris for the month. Rebecca uses organic or recycled fabrics and she hand-dyes and prints everything herself. She has created an eclectic array of stuffed animals representing endangered creatures from around the world including; the Western Harvest Mouse, Grizzly Bear, Northern Leopard Frog, Woodland Caribou, Nuttal’s Cottontail Rabbit, American Badger, Red Wolf, Asian Elephant, Wild Water Buffalo, and Vancouver Island Marmot. We feel very fortunate to have these wonderful creations in our midst - thanks to Rebecca for sharing them!

Vancouver Island Marmot: I am based on the Vancouver Island Marmot and am endangered in British Columbia, Canada. I am herbivorous and hibernate throughout the winter. I have been handmade with organic linen and lovely recycled velvet and have a hand printed patch on my back. Plumply stuffed with recycled polyfil.

Frenchmen and Wine, Days 8-10

2009-03-27T05:19:00.001-07:00

I loved that the wine was all just tossed in random baskets. Day 8

Day 9 the amazing piller by the Ritz.
Day 10, tres french! Adorable old frenchmen stolling by Napoleans Tomb while we had a picnic lunch

Photos of Day 4, 5, 6, 7

2009-03-27T04:41:00.001-07:00

Summing up the first week,

Day 5 the street where we live

Day 6 Light dancing on the walls of Notre Dame

Day 7 My own frenchman, on the streets of Montmartre.

***Sorry, some trouble with Day 4 Pic of the day, it will be coming soon.

A Few of my Favorite Things

2009-03-27T04:31:00.000-07:00

After two weeks in Paris I am officially Smitten. A hard lesson learned is that no one should have buttery warm crissonts, brioche and 2 bagettes everyday, its jut not healthy. Yet it's just so good.

Going to be posting my chosen photos of the day for our time in Paris. Below is Paris day 1 , our first glance of the tower, Paris day 2 the tower glowing at night, and Paris day 3 inside Sacre Coeur.

Wish You Were Here

2009-03-24T12:42:00.001-07:00

We're having such a wonderful time theres hardly a second to spare to edit photos. I just put a few new ones on flickr. Click the side bar link and go have a look!

If Only She Had a Monkey

2009-03-18T12:07:00.000-07:00

Just by Sacre Coeur we stumbled upon this performer. It made our day.

Technical Difficulty

2009-03-14T11:59:00.000-07:00

Having some trouble with all of my pictures getting from the computer to the blog... coming soon, beautiful photos that match all the posts. In the mean time be sure to click the side bar link to my flickr page to see whats up there!

Montmartre

2009-03-14T11:58:00.000-07:00

Took ourselves on a tour of our new neighborhood today. With a the stairs and hills we will be in such good shape! We had our first glimpse of the Eiffle Tower and listened to an amazing street performer. And for lunch? Baguettes, sliced pork tureen, brie de meux, sliced apple, white wine, cornichons, and for desert? Ice cream.

Welcome to Paris

2009-03-14T11:57:00.000-07:00

Our first day in Paris was spent search for a bank, then searching for wifi, then going to bed very, very early. We were spent from the late night in London and the early morning on the train. But we have big plans for the rest of the month. We have a small Bachelor flat half a block from Sacre Coeur. I already know I'll never want to leave.

How Wicked

2009-03-14T11:56:00.000-07:00

We spent the morning looking around town, we walked through the National Gallery and it was a bit over whelming so much to see. And think of how much more the Louvre will be.
I found a few artists I'd never heard of and loved; George Stubbs painted a life sized racing horse called Whistlejacket. It could have leaped off the canvas, from a meter away it could have been a full taxidermist horse. The other was, and I love this name, Hans Holbein the Younger who painted 'A Lady with a Squirrel and a Starling' , just a girl hanging out with her pet squirrel. Love it!
Went to see the Buckingham Palace and was disappointed. There was no changing of the guards, the few that were there were dressed in faded navy, not the bright red you see in pictures and there were far too many people. Considering how beautiful all the other buildings were, it was just alright and a bit small, we didn't stay long. The evening held our first London musical! We went to see Wicked and it was splendid. Sort of a twist on the Wizard of Oz. The sets and costumes were full of colour, the music was so much fun and the whole show was fantastic. We splurged and sat front and centre, perfect view.
And tomorrow we head to Paris.

Best Meal Ever!

2009-03-14T11:53:00.000-07:00

We ate at the best restaurant I have ever walked into. Cousin Peter is a good fellow to know. We were dining with all the important people of London, among them Margaret Thatcher's right hand man, whose name I can't remember. Peter knew the chef so we were spoiled! The moment we sat down were we brought 5 plates of AMAZING tasting dishes, parma ham, buffalo mozzarella with olives, tuna carpaccio with capers, zucchini frites, scallops in beautiful dishes like shells... and that was before we even saw the menu! By then I was full. We had a first course of pasta veal ragout and jumped to desert, as there is always room for desert.
When we dragged our over stuffed selves out we went walking the River Thames while everything was lit up and music was playing. Yes, I do like London.
Tomorrow we'll see it all by day light.

London

2009-03-14T11:44:00.000-07:00

Granted I was quite ill for the first night in London, we spent the first morning and afternoon walking around Notting Hill and Portobello Road. We're lucky enough to be staying with a lovely cousin of Matts, Peter, he's an up and coming director who happens to live near the area. We did find the Travel Bookshop thay Hugh Grant worked at in the movie Notting Hill..."I'm just a girl, standing in front of a boy, asking him to love her." Just a little cheese...
We also found some other lovely shops, full of beautiful and expensive dresses, jams, flowers, lovely non travel related bookshops and ended up having lunch in the Organic Kitchen. It was just what we needed, rustic, delicious food, just like home.
What a lovely day, and it's not quite done.

And They're Off

2009-03-02T10:19:00.001-08:00

The ferry ride went well, we watch Quarantine on our computer until the battery died, right in the middle of the movie at a very frightening and tense part. C' est la vie as the french say. Matt's very excited, I'm pretty anxious for the flight to come and go smoothly, but under all my tenseness is a bundle of excitement.

Here we are, jet setters on the ferry to Vancouver... next stop, Manchester!

This is ivy league

2009-02-15T16:48:00.000-08:00

I wish I had a little bunny hood to wear in Paris while my hubby rowed us romantically down the river singing to me... but somehow I just don't see that ever happening. This is Ivy League is one of my band on repeat of late. This was the only music vid I could find, but my favorite song of theirs is 'till the day'. It's feel good music, and feel good music makes me feel swell!

Paper Art

2009-02-07T14:21:00.000-08:00

My dearest spends most of his internet time finding the most random of things,but this time I think he struck gold! Anything paper art is good, anything stop motion is good, but put them togther and add a 3D glasses wearing, keyboard playing paper dog... and there is nothing better!

Oh Dear...What to Wear

2009-02-05T22:22:00.000-08:00

Been spending a lot of time thinking about the trip. Now with only 24 days to go I've turned my attentions to packing. If I win the lottery before we go I would get this oh so romantic outfit the stroll the streets in (all Anthro, no surprise). I suppose I'll have to suffer through in my thrift store finds, I'm sure I'll look only slightly less glamorous.

28 Days Later

2009-02-02T08:52:00.000-08:00

Yes I know it's been a few weeks but it has been a busy life I've been living. Top of the list is that in 28 days I will be over seas! First England for a few days to visit my husbands long lost relatives and then to France for 2 months. Although neither of us have more that grade school French under our belts, we've been reading our lonely planet phrase book and more importantly been listening to this song on repeat. My only regret in life is that I am not as brilliant a song writer as Jermaine or Bret. ...Volia mon passporte!

Herman Dune

2009-01-10T20:46:00.000-08:00

This Music video is a bit random but I love it when the angels sing. And I adore the way he dances. Herman Dune is pretty fantastic!

I Drink Tea: How I Made a Tea Cozy

2009-01-06T09:10:00.000-08:00

1. The way to begin any project is to gather your materials. To make my tea cozy I chose linen(of course), grey tweed, a red patterned left over and olive green ribbon. You will also need cotton batting, matching thread and fabric paint if you're going to print on it.

2. As I have two different sized tea pots I made two different patterns based on the same shape. To decide how big to make your tea cozy measure around it (roughly) and add 2 or 3 inches it width and 1 or 2 in height. My pattern for my largest tea pot was 15" across and 13" high. Just to make sure that it's the right size cut out your batting first, pin it together and fit it on your tea pot.

3. Cut out your fabrics. You will need 2 pieces for lining, and 2 for the outer shell. This is when you can do any embellishments you'd like to your shell fabrics. I wanted my shell to have multiple fabrics so before I could cut out my shell fabrics I had to sew my patchwork together. After I cut out my fabric I stamped my tree image onto the outside and set it aside to dry.

4. As batting needs to be attached to something, quilt the lining with the right side out to the batting. I chose to do this one in a spiral, while my other cosy I did in a grid pattern.

5. Once both pieces of batting have been attached to the lining, sew these pieces together to create a pocket making sure to leave a small hole in the top to flip right side out further down the road.

6. Cut your ribbon to approx. 3" and iron in half to create a tag and pin it between the tops of the shell fabrics good sides together and sew pieces together making another pocket.

7. Now is where it all comes together, flip your shell piece right side out and press the seams flat, make sure everything looks good and fit it inside the lining, good sides together. Match up the side seams and sew them together.

8. Trim your excess and flip it all right side out using that hole you left in the lining. Press everything nice and flat and either hand sew or use your machine and stitch that hole up.

9. As a finishing I used a matching olive thread and made a seam 1 inch up from the bottom to hold everything in place and highlight my green ribbon and green tree prints.

10. Make a pot of tea, put your new cozy on it and keep it warm twice as long. It's magic!

I Love Paris in the Spring Time

2009-01-06T09:08:00.001-08:00

5 to 1, originally uploaded by Cyril BRETON.

We booked our flights last night. Very, very exciting...