Elliott Crafty Creations

Tasty Tuesday: Fall Favorites

2013-11-05T23:33:00.001-06:00

Fall is here and a change of season means a change of favorite recipes in my kitchen. It's time to enjoy the last of what's in season at your local farmer's market and start serving heartier recipes. My family is starting to feel the cold here as the Midwest starts to get prepared for the coming winter. For this week's Tasty Tuesday I thought I would share a few of my favorite fall recipes that I have pinned in my Culinary Inspiration board on Pinterest that I can't wait to try. Enjoy!

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Iowa Girl Eats has a 15 minute tomato basil soup with cheese tortellini that I can't wait to make for my kids. We can't get enough tortellini around here.

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Miriam at Eat Good 4 Life shares this recipe for Creamy Pumpkin Pasta . I am a fan of pumpkin but usually in sweeter recipes. I think this fall is the time to start experimenting in the savory direction.

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Chickpea Tomato Minestrone Soup at Vegetarian Adventures just looks amazing for starters. I am a big fan of chunky tomato based soups and this one definitely fits that bill. It also might actually get me to eat more greens.

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Sweet Potato and Edamame Shepherd's Pie from Veg Kitchen is a great twist on a family favorite. I would never have thought to add edamame to this dish. Shepherd's pie is on the top of my comfort food list so I knew I just had to give this a try.

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Crock pot Quinoa Chili from Everyday Reading is a recipe that makes a casual dinner at home so easy. It's a set it in the slow cooker and forget it for 6 - 8 hours kind of meal that the whole family would love. Quinoa also makes it hearty and full of healthy protein.

What are some of your favorite fall recipes you can wait to whip up for your family this month?

Our hosts for Tasty Tuesday are

Nap Time Creations, Anyonita Nibbles, and Full Time Mama

Our host for Two Cup Tuesday is Pint Sized Baker

Our host for Handmade Tuesdays is Lady Bug Blessings
Our Host for Anti-Procrastination Tuesday is New Nostalgia

November Unique and Bizarre Monthly Holidays

2013-11-05T13:59:00.000-06:00

November is...

Aviation History Month

Child Safety Protection Month

International Drum Month

National Adoption Awareness Month

National Model Railroad Month

National Novel Writing Month

Native American Heritage Month

Peanut Butter Lovers Month

National Sleep Comfort Month

Special Days in November

1 All Saint's Day
2 Book Lovers Day - Deviled Egg Day - Look for Circles Day

3 Housewife's Day - Sandwich Day
4 King Tut Day
5 Gunpowder Day
6 Marooned without a Compass Day - Saxophone Day
7 Bittersweet Chocolate with Almonds Day
8 Cook Something Bold Day - Dunce Day
9 Chaos Never Dies Day

10 Forget-Me-Not Day - USMC Day
11 Veteran's Day
12 Chicken Soup for the Soul Day - Young Readers Day
13 National Indian Pudding Day - Sadie Hawkins Day - World Kindness Day
14 Operating Room Nurse Day
15 Clean Your Refrigerator Day - America Recycles Day - National Philanthropy Day
16 Button Day - Have a Party With Your Bear Day

17 Homemade Bread Day - Take A Hike Day - World Peace Day
19 Have a Bad Day Day
20 Absurdity Day - Beautiful Day - Universal Children's Day
21 False Confession Day - Great American Smokeout - World Hello Day
22 Go For a Ride Day
23 Eat a Cranberry Day - National Cashew Day - National Adoption Day

25 National Parfait Day
26 Shopping Reminder Day
27 Pins and Needles Day
28 Make Your Own Head Day - Red Planet Day - Thanksgiving - Eat, drink, and be thankful.
29 Black Friday - Square Dance Day - You're Welcome Day
30 Stay At Home Because You Are Well Day

Mosaic Monday: Hey There Gorgeous!

2013-11-05T00:03:00.004-06:00

I was feeling pretty good about my gorgeous self this past weekend so I decided to snap a few pictures. I have wanted to play around with head shots so I have a few pictures in the line-up ready to go to update my social media profiles. All of these were taken with my digital camera and me looking into my bedroom mirror while setting up each photo looking at the digital screen on my camera for placement.

I had a little too much fun making faces and clicking away. I am so glad I was inspired to bring out my sunglasses. I think that is my favorite shot of all of them. Enjoy!

Mary of Little Red House is our hostess for Mosaic Monday

Each mosaic is unique and has it's own story to tell.

Mosaic Monday: Fall Afghan Inspiration

2013-10-28T07:00:00.000-05:00

Fall is definitely here and the weather in the Midwest has started to get pretty chilly at night. It's time to pull out your favorite afghan or start working on a new one. Today's Mosaic Monday is a little fall afghan inspiration from my Grandma Harvey's collection that I mentioned last week here. I love the warm colors and neat textures. Enjoy!

Mary of Little Red House is our hostess for Mosaic Monday

Each mosaic is unique and has it's own story to tell.

Tasty Tuesday: Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic Tomato Shrimp

2013-10-22T07:00:00.000-05:00

I love the combination of shrimp and pasta together. It's just heaven in a bowl to me. I have recently begun experimenting with this combination in my own kitchen. I don't understand why I waited so long. I guess I was a little intimidated so I shied away from even attempting this delicious dish.

Well, that is a thing of the past. This is so easy and takes so few ingredients. Most of it comes from your pantry and freezer which makes last minute meal preparations a snap. I have pulled this out several times in the last few months and haven't been disappointed yet.

Once you master the basics there are so many creative ways to spice up this recipe. You could add pesto, garden vegetables, lemon, a little butter and more garlic for something that resembles more of a scampi. The sky's the limit.

Recipe: Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic Tomato Shrimp

Ingredients:
1 lb Angel Hair Pasta - more or less, depending on who's coming to dinner
2 Tbs of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
A dash of Red Pepper flakes
6 -8 Garlic cloves, minced
1 lb Medium Shrimp, deveined and tails removed
1 can of Chopped Tomatoes
1 Tbs Italian Seasoning
Parsley, fresh minced or dry
Fresh Ground Pepper and Salt to taste

Directions:
1. Cook the angel hair pasta according to the package directions. Save 1 cup of the pasta water for later and drain the pasta.

2. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and cook, stirring, for 1 minute.

3. Now add the shrimp, chopped tomatoes, and Italian seasoning to the skillet, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp is all pink and opaque throughout. That will take approximately 3 to 5 minutes.

4. Add the angel hair pasta to the shrimp mixture. Sprinkle with the parsley and add the salt and pepper to taste. Toss everything so the sauce evenly coats the pasta and gets a chance to soak in. Here is where you can add your reserve pasta liquid a little at a time if the sauce is coming out a bit dryer than your liking.

Serve with generous gratings of Parmesan cheese, a nice salad and a little french bread. Yum!

Our hosts for Tasty Tuesday are

Nap Time Creations, Anyonita Nibbles, and Full Time Mama

Our host for Two Cup Tuesday is Pint Sized Baker

Our host for Handmade Tuesdays is Lady Bug Blessings
Our Host for Anti-Procrastination Tuesday is New Nostalgia

Mosaic Monday: Thrifted Granny

2013-10-21T13:57:00.002-05:00

My Grandma Harvey has an amazing afghan collection. She has been collecting afghans mostly from thrift stores for decades. The last time I visited I made sure that I snapped a few pictures of these yarn beauties.

Today's mosaic is of a thrifted granny square afghan that has every color in the rainbow represented. the granny square is such a versatile pattern. It's a great way to use up yarn leftovers to make something both functional and beautiful for your home.

I have to be honest here and say that I have never actually attempted to make a granny square. For an active crocheter that's pretty embarrassing I will admit. I do have it on my list of patterns to work on in the future though. I have been saving up those left over yarn balls that come after so many finished projects. I know there is a granny square in my future.

Mary of Little Red House is our hostess for Mosaic Monday

Each mosaic is unique and has it's own story to tell.

Tasty Tuesday: Slow Cooker Enchilada Sauce

2013-10-16T09:48:00.002-05:00

One of my signature dishes is my Black Bean Enchiladas. It was one of the very first vegetarian recipes that I ever tried and it has been a staple of my kitchen for years. I have continued to work on that recipe and make it my own but one thing I have never done is attempt an enchilada sauce from scratch.

I didn't want to make a sauce that I had to babysit too much so using my slow cooker was a natural option. You really do just dump in all the ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work for you all day long. I also love the fact that this recipe has real ingredients and no fillers, high fructose corn syrup or unnecessary sodium. We should be eating real food that tastes good and is good for us. I am amazed at the stuff that gets added to our food these days. It's kinda scary.

So, the next time you reach for a can enchilada sauce at your local grocery store consider making this recipe instead. You won't regret it!

Recipe: Slow Cooker Enchilada Sauce

Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1/4 cup chili powder
2 tablespoons ground cumin
1 (32 once) can crushed tomatoes
1 cup vegetable stock
1 teaspoon each of salt & pepper

Directions:
1. Add all the ingredients into your slow cooker and stir to combine. Cook 8 hours on low or 4 - 5 hours on high.

2. Pour the fully cooked sauce into a blender or food processor. Process until smooth.

Slow Cooker Enchilada Sauce stays fresh for up to 2 weeks in a jar in the fridge or can be frozen. Freeze sauce in a freezer bag and thaw in the refrigerator to use in your favorite enchilada recipe.

Our hosts for Tasty Tuesday are

Nap Time Creations, Leah Says Views, Anyonita Nibbles, and Full Time Mama

Our host for Two Cup Tuesday is Pint Sized Baker

Our host for Handmade Tuesdays is Lady Bug Blessings

October Unique and Bizarre Monthly Holidays

2013-10-14T12:00:00.000-05:00

October is...

Adopt a Shelter Dog Month

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Clergy Appreciation Month

Computer Learning Month

Cookie Month

Domestic Violence Awareness Month

International Drum Month

National Diabetes Month

National Pizza Month

National Vegetarian Month

National Popcorn Popping Month

Sarcastic Month

Seafood Month

Special Days in October

1 World Vegetarian Day
2 Name Your Car Day
3 Techies Day
3 Virus Appreciation Day
4 National Frappe Day
4 World Smile Day
5 Do Something Nice Day
5 International Frugal Fun Day
5 World Teacher's Day

6 Mad Hatter Day
7 Bald and Free Day
8 American Touch Tag Day
9 Curious Events Day
9 Fire Prevention Day
9 Moldy Cheese Day
10 National Angel Food Cake Day
11 It's My Party Day
11 Take Your Teddy Bear to Work Day
11 World Egg Day
12 Moment of Frustration Day

13 International Skeptics Day
14 Be Bald and Free Day
16 Bosses Day
16 Dictionary Day
17 Wear Something Gaudy Day
18 No Beard Day
19 Evaluate Your Life Day
19 International Newspaper Carrier Day
19 Sweetest Day Third Saturday of month

20 Brandied Fruit Day
21 Count Your Buttons Day
21 National Pumpkin Cheesecake Day find a recipe, too.
22 National Nut Day
24 National Bologna Day
24 United Nations Day
19 Sweetest Day Third Saturday of month
25 Punk for a Day Day
25 World Pasta Day
25 Frankenstein Friday
26 Make a Difference Day
26 National Mincemeat Day

29 Hermit Day
29 National Frankenstein Day
30 National Candy Corn Day
30 Mischief Night
31 Carve a Pumpkin Day
31 Halloween
31 Increase Your Psychic Powers Day

"Bittersweet October. The mellow, messy, leaf-kicking, perfect pause between the opposing miseries of summer and winter."

~Carol Bishop Hipps, "October,"In a Southern Garden, 1995

Mosaic Monday: Bras Across the Kaw

2013-10-14T10:20:00.000-05:00

Hundreds of bras line the bridge over the Kaw river in Lawrence, KS each October in an installation entitled, "Bras Across the Kaw". Last year I was able to snap a few photos of some of the many hundred bras that were donated to promote breast cancer awareness month and women's health.

Read more here: http://www.kansascity.com/2013/10/07/4538629/hundreds-of-bras-line-kansas-river.html#storylink=cpy

Read more here: http://www.kansascity.com/2013/10/07/4538629/hundreds-of-bras-line-kansas-river.html#storylink=cp

Health Care Access Clinic of Lawrence, KS serves low-income Douglas County residents and provides much needed health care to the many uninsured that would otherwise go without. Shelly Wakeman, the clinic director was quoted in a recent Kansas City Star article promoting the 2013 installation.

"The whole purpose is to catch people's attention and, if they're a woman, hopefully get them to schedule their mammogram. Or, if they're a man who loves a woman, to get them to encourage her to schedule one."

We have all been touched by cancer in some way either personally or we have a family member or friend that has been effected. It's so important that we rally together and support those battling cancer and those who are fighting along side their loved ones. I have a grandmother that is a breast cancer survivor. She is fighting a different cancer battle know like so many people and could use your prayers of healing and strength during this time.

Mary of Little Red House is our hostess for Mosaic Monday

Each mosaic is unique and has it's own story to tell.

Mosaic Monday: String Theory

2013-09-30T07:00:00.000-05:00

This summer at the Lawrence Arts Center there was a fascinating display inspired by string theory. I am not a particle physicist so I couldn't even being to fully explain what string theory so I will let Wikipedia take a crack at it. Each of these pieces was created by a different artist or group of artists. Each piece represented to them the essence of string theory. I loved all the colors and each unique take on a complicated subject.

Mary of Little Red House is our hostess for Mosaic Monday

Each mosaic is unique and has it's own story to tell.

Mosaic Monday: Fairy Retreat on the Water's Edge

2013-09-23T07:00:00.000-05:00

I so wish I was small enough to enjoy this little retreat I found while visiting Water's Edge in Lawrence a couple months ago. They have the cutest collection of fairy and gypsy furniture and accessories that I have ever seen. The stories we could share while sitting by the water and tending to the plants...

Mary of Little Red House is our hostess for Mosaic Monday

Each mosaic is unique and has it's own story to tell.

Crafty Goodness: Yarn Blessings Fellowship

2013-09-18T13:54:00.001-05:00

Several years ago I was looking for a way to get out of the house and spend some time yarn crafting. I needed the people and I needed the relaxation. I also wanted to give back to my local community. Out of all of that Yarn Blessings was born. Yarn Blessings has evolved to be an ecumenical outreach ministry with a focus on fellowship and giving to our local community.

Initially we focused on prayer shawls but we soon expanded to include lap robes, baby blankets, hats and scarves for local community giving. Each person is encouraged to make whatever project they are the most comfortable with but I do like to give us a project focus each month so we can have a plan for community giving.

**Monthly Project Focus**

January - Scarves & Hats, Shawls & Lap Robes

February - Scarves & Hats, Shawls & Lap Robes

March - Shawls & Lap Robes

April - Shawls & Lap Robes

May - Shawls & Lap Robes

June, July, August & September - Baby Blankets and Sweaters

October, November & December - Warm Hats, Scarves & Gloves for service organizations

Do you knit or crochet? Would you like to learn? Yarn Blessings would like to invite you to participate in an ongoing ecumenical outreach ministry through the creation of prayer shawls, lap blankets, hats & scarves and baby sweaters & blankets. These items will then be given to persons who are ill, have suffered a loss, are in the midst of a life change or crisis or who could use the warmth of our prayers.

Our local fellowship group meets the 1st, 3rd and 5th Saturdays of every month at 10 am at Signs of Life coffee shop in downtown Lawrence, KS.

For more information please contact us at Yarnblessings@gmail.com

Join us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/YarnBlessings

"We always thank God for you, mentioning you in our prayers."

1 Thessalonians 1:2

Our Hosts for Hooking on Hump Day are Merry Messy Life and Moogly
Our Host for Whatever goes Wednesday is Some Day Crafts
Our Host for Create and Share is The Trendy Tree House
Our of Host for We Did It Wednesday is Sew Much Ado
Our Host for Whimsy Wednesday is The NY Melrose Family
Our Host for Wonderful Wednesday is Ducks 'n a Row

Tasty Tuesday: Elliott Crafty Creations Top Five Favorite Recipes

2013-09-18T11:26:00.004-05:00

This week I have been looking back at Elliott Crafty Creations. It snuck up on me that I have posted 121 posts since I started writing here in December of 2010. So for this week's Tasty Tuesday I thought I would share a list of my top five favorite recipes that I have posted over the last 3 years. Enjoy!

What to do with all that Almond Bark - Part 2

Pizza Just the Way You Like It

Mexican Quiche

Crock Pot Ravioli Lasagna

Elliott Birthday Cake

Do you have a favorite recipe?

Let us know your favorites in the comments.

Make sure to share links so we can bookmark our favorites, too.

Our hosts for Tasty Tuesday are

Nap Time Creations, Leah Says Views, Anyonita Nibbles, and Full Time Mama

Our host for Two Cup Tuesday is
Pint Sized Baker

Mosaic Monday: Exploring Water's Edge

2013-09-17T07:00:00.000-05:00

Water's Edge in Lawrence, KS is one of my mother's favorite spots to spend an afternoon. She took the kids and I along on one of her recent visits and I was able to take a few pictures of the many beautiful gardens. I just love the ceramic toad stools. Enjoy!

Mary of Little Red House is our hostess for Mosaic Monday

Each mosaic is unique and has it's own story to tell.

The Simple Woman's Daybook - Friday, September 13, 2013

2013-09-14T02:22:00.004-05:00

Outside my window...Things are green outside from the little bit of rain we received earlier in the week. It's been pretty warm here which makes me wish for fall just a little. I do realize that when fall and winter are in full swing I will probably be missing summer. I will enjoy these warm temperatures while I can.

I am thinking...about the lovely conversations that I had in Target today of all places. I went in to get my glasses adjusted and while I waited a nice gentleman and I made small talk about glasses and it grew from there. It was surprising to me how easy it was to spark a quality conversation. I later spoke with two different Target staff members that were genuinely nice and interesting.

I am thankful for...Friday night dinner and a movie time with my kids. I couldn't get enough of the good food and cuddles.

I am wearing...A black cotton 1950's inspired dress with a raspberry tank peaking through. It's time to do laundry around here so I thank God that this was clean.

I am remembering...old friends and good times.

I am currently reading...I just finished Jim Gaffigan's new book called "Dad is Fat". I loved every page of it. I have seen both of his stand-up specials and couldn't get enough of them. I can't wait to see hear about his next project.

I am hoping...for new opportunities and connections.

On my mind...Exercise and the fact that I don't do enough of it. I need to get moving. I miss yoga and I have always wanted to start walking in the evenings but never seem to figure out how to make it work in my evening schedule. Now is the time to create those good habits and make exercise a priority. Who's with me?

Noticing that...I really should probably make my bed. Sleeping with sheets is a good thing. I have been so busy I haven't had the gumption to get my bed put back together after washing everything. I promise I will get it done this weekend.

Pondering these words...

"A true soul mate is probably the most important person you'll ever meet, because they tear down your walls and smack you awake. But to live with a soul mate forever? Nah. Too painful. Soul mates, they come into your life just to reveal another layer of yourself to you, and then leave."

—Elizabeth Gilbert

From the kitchen...Not a terrible amount of cooking has been going on. To be quite honest I don't like cooking when it's just for me. I should start planning simple left overs that I can reheat for when the kids are with their Dad and I don't have to worry about getting them dinner. Otherwise I just reach for a frozen dinner and that is not exactly the best choice. I did make an entire loaf of oat bread into french toast this week. It was so yummy.

Around the house...We are thinking about Halloween costumes, continuing to work on organization and slaying home improvement dragons. I now have a new ceiling fan in my bedroom with a light that works thanks to my Mom who installed it for me.

One of my favorite things...Burt's Bees has a new lip gloss out that has become my new favorite thing. I decided to pick up one to try today while visiting Target. A big plus is that it is not sticky and goes on smoothly. I give it a big thumbs up!

From my camera...I made sure to snap a few photos to send to all the grandparents in my kids lives last week. I created a collage and sent it off so everyone could see how much my kids have grown in the last year. It's amazing really. This is my favorite pic that I took with my smart phone. Enjoy!

Would you like to linger on the simple things...then join me and many others at "The Simple Woman's Daybook" in taking a little look into the days plans and thoughts of those who are focusing on simplicity...beauty of the 'everyday moments'. I will be posting a weekly update using this unique and simple format.

Creating a Better Morning Routine

2013-09-12T08:00:00.000-05:00

It all started Sunday night as my kids and I were getting everything ready for the start of another week of school. We couldn't have another week like we had this past week. Not getting up on time, fighting over what to wear, running out the door getting only a granola bar for breakfast and constant bickering about why our morning routine needed an overhaul.

So I decided to try something new this week with my Daughter and our morning routine. A few days later I read this post on the Art of Non-Conformity blog where Chris Guillebeau writes about saving your every day choices for the big ideas so you can improve your focus. Creating a routine for yourself where all the basic choices have been made already. You know what you are going to have for breakfast and your clothes are all ready laid out the night before, etc. Save your personal energy for the larger decisions in life. The decisions that can make the most impact. I had a feeling that I was on the right track.

We had already been making strides with getting to bed earlier and are closer to my goal bed time of lights out at 8:30 PM. We are still a little sleepy getting up in the morning but I have seen real improvement. My daughter has finally got the idea that getting more sleep equals feeling more rested and that has helped tremendously. Night time is also when I read aloud from whatever chapter book we are currently working on. We get in two chapters usually if we get in bed on time.

To cut down on the bickering and the fighting in the morning I realized we had to trim down our morning routine and make it simpler. I walked through the morning in my mind and listed all the things that we need to do before we headed out for school. If we planned ahead each of the things listed could go a lot smoother and make our mornings so much more pleasant.

Wake -up
Get Dressed
Eat Breakfast
Brush Teeth
Pack Lunch
Get Back Pack
Walk to School

Waking up has been quite difficult since school started so getting to bed early has been a priority. I also gave Madi an alarm clock of her very own. I figured that at 7 years old she could start getting herself up on her own. That hasn't happened yet but a mom can dream right?

Towards the end of last year I had started laying out a weeks worth of outfits and hanging them up together so all we had to do was pull one down and put it on. It seemed to work pretty well so we decided to try it again. I started to make outfits on my daughter's bed and pulled things from her drawers that she might not have worn for awhile. Madi gave me some input as to what she wanted to wear and we compromised pretty well. We created five outfits including underwear and hung each one up individually and then put them toward the front of her closet. All I had to do in the morning was to take a complete outfit down, grab a pair of socks from her chest of drawers, and place it all on her bed. No arguing and I felt brilliant!

To make a better breakfast possible and pack decent lunches with more fresh fruits and veggies it was a no brainer to work on setting this out the night before. I am even looking into preparing lunches for the whole week on Sunday night so all I have to do is grab a few containers and warm up some soup occasionally. This is still a work in progress but I feel like this is completely doable.

I am ashamed to admit that we fail when it comes to brushing teeth before school. Half the time we are already at school when I realize we forgot, again! One idea I had was to put an extra tooth brush and tooth paste in Madi's bag so she could do it right before class if she had to or she could brush sometime after school if we forgot. I have heard that a check list might help with this. We shall see.

I make it a point to check her bag and get it ready for the next day as soon as we get home and before dinner. That way homework is checked and I have some time to read important papers. I also clean out the lunch box from the night before. Having a consistent place to put my daughter's back pack is a must. Last year we wasted so much time in the morning looking for her bag it was ridiculous.

Getting all of these systems in place make walking to school a much more pleasant activity and we don't feel so rushed. By Friday of this week I was feeling quite a bit better and we were all out the door ready to meet the world before the weekend.

What I learned this week, is don't burn your creative spark out while you are trying to decide what to have for breakfast. Make your first choice of the day a creative one.

Do you have any tips for simplifying your morning routine? Make sure you share in the comments!

The September List

2013-09-06T10:25:00.000-05:00

An August Recap:

Back to School || Finally Shared a Simple Woman's Daybook Post
Explored what it would be like to be a bug || Made a To-Do List for the End of Summer

My personal goals for September:

Complete my Fall Etsy Collection for an October 1st Grand Opening

Read two books

Carve out some daily exercise time

Implement a 10 PM personal bedtime

A few blog posts + pins I've loved lately:

New Worsted Twist Seed Stitch Scarf on The Purl Bee - I love the colors and I think I can recreate this using crochet.

Marions Cozy Cup Warmer - I have read a ton of pattern ideas for cup cozies and have fallen in love with this one.

5 Creative Ways to Reach Your Goals on The Frisky

A few handmade items I've had my eye on:

POP Jewelry Studio: Etsy

Vessels and Wares: Etsy

Name Design Studio: Etsy

Miniature Rhino: Etsy

linking up with rouge & whimsy and the goad abode for THE LIST, first friday of each month

Can You Make Yourself Better With Yarn?

2013-09-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

How can Knitting and Crochet make us better? That was the question that Lion Brand Yarn asked it's loyal followers in 2010 and were overwhelmed by the responses. The video below shares just a few of the amazing responses they were able to collect on the Lion Brand Notebook. To see all of the responses, see the first post here and the follow-up here. Enjoy!

Lately crocheting has been bittersweet for me. A person that I loved with my whole heart taught me how to crochet when we were getting to know each other. We are no longer together but I still have those memories and they make me smile. Crochet has opened up a whole new world for me. I have met some amazing people and continued to sharpen and learn new skills.

Now I know enough to share this gift with others. My daughter has shown a real interest. I bought some new hooks with her in mind. One day soon this year we will sit down and I will start to explain just how to make her first chain. My son is a little young yet but I know he appreciates the art involved. He is so proud of the blanket I make for him as a baby. He sleeps with it every night.

I know that yarn can make us better. It helps me to focus and reach a calm place after a hectic day. It helps me to express myself in ways I hadn't been able to do before with color and texture. It is a worthy craft.

How Knitting and Crocheting Make Us Better

I commented in July on a Yarn Craft podcast about ways that knitting can complement crochet and vice versa. We were asked to share what new technique we would like to try. My comment is below:

"Lately I have been rather interested in trying my hand at Tunisian Crochet. It intrigues me. I currently crochet and loom knit. I have always said that when I become really comfortable with both of those methods I would branch out and try knitting. Now that I have been introduced to Tunisian crochet I have to add it to my list as well."

I'm excited to announce that I won the book giveaway! I received the following book in the mail a couple weeks later: "Just Like Me Knits: Matching Patterns for Kids and Their Favorite Dolls" by Brandy Fortune. I have never knit before but I have already been inspired by the patterns and ideas in this book. Who knew?

September Unique & Bizarre Monthly Holidays

2013-09-03T16:14:00.004-05:00

September is...

Hispanic Heritage Month
International Square Dancing Month
National Blueberry Popsicle Month
National Courtesy Month
Little League Month
Honey Month
Self Improvement Month
Better Breakfast Month

Special Days in September

2 Labor Day First Monday of month
3 Skyscraper Day
4 Newspaper Carrier Day
5 Be Late for Something Day and Cheese Pizza Day
6 Fight Procrastination Day and Read a Book Day
7 Neither Rain nor Snow Day

8 Grandparent's Day - first Sunday after Labor Day, International Literacy Day and National Pet Memorial Day -second Sunday in September
9 Teddy Bear Day
10 Sewing Machine Day and Swap Ideas Day
11 Make Your Bed Day and No News is Good News Day
12 Chocolate Milk Shake Day
13 Defy Superstition Day, Fortune Cookie Day, and Positive Thinking Day
14 National Cream-Filled Donut Day

15 Make a Hat Day and National Women's Friendship Day - third Sunday in September
16 Collect Rocks Day, Mayflower Day, National Play Doh Day and Working Parents Day
17 National Apple Dumpling Day, Citizenship Day and Constitution Day
18 National Cheeseburger Day
19 International Talk Like A Pirate Day and National Butterscotch Pudding Day
21 International Peace Day, Miniature Golf Day and World Gratitude Day

22 Business Women's Day and Elephant Appreciation Day
23 Checkers Day
24 National Cherries Jubilee Day
25 National Comic Book Day
26 Johnny Appleseed Day
27 Crush a Can Day
28 Ask a Stupid Question Day and National Good Neighbor Day

"I don't need a holiday or a feast to feel grateful for my children, the sun, the moon, the roof over my head, music, and laughter, but I like to take this time to take the path of thanks less traveled."

-Paula Poundstone

Tasty Tuesday: Great Aunt Susie's and Grandma's Pea Salad

2013-09-03T15:10:00.004-05:00

The Happy Couple!

This past June was a busy month as we celebrated the marriage of my sister Sarah Parker and her partner Molly. We started out the festivities with a combined wedding shower and engagement party for all of our family that lived in Kansas. For some people it was the first time they were to meet Molly since the couple resides in Iowa.

I took on the task of putting together a party that would reflect the couple's style and give them ample time to connect with family and friends. We wanted something casual and we knew that we would serve dinner. Our friend Terry and my Dad graciously opened up their home for the evening and let me take over their kitchen. I designed the invitations and with Sarah Parker's help put together the guest list.

Decorations were kept simple. I chose to use yellow because it was the accent color for their wedding and orange because it compliments so well and it is one of my favorites. I took a trip to my local thrift store and found mason jars, orange and yellow serving items, a couple baskets, raffia and a white table cloth. I went to a craft store and found bandannas for .99 and bought several to use as table decorations. I went to my local grocery store the day of the party and picked up yellow, red and orange gerber daisies for flowers. I also shopped my house for items that would work in our color scheme.

A Little Bit of John Deere

The last decorating touch was the additional of John Deere tractors and accessories that our Dad brought over from our grandma's house. Our grandpa had passed away a few years ago and liked to decorated with John Deere memorabilia. As a nice tie in Molly is a mechanic that just so happens to work for John Deere. It was a nice finishing touch.

Sarah Parker requested something barbecue and asked that we serve deviled eggs and Aunt Susie's and Grandma Chaney's Pea Salad. The more we talked about the menu the more I realized that we were starting to collect a list of family recipes that we both loved and wanted to share. As we have gotten older we both have been thinking about traditions and passing on things that we don't want forgotten. One of those important legacies starts in the kitchen. Here's the menu we came up with:

Dad's Pulled Pork with Buns and Barbecue Sauce

Our Family's Favorite Cheesy Potato Casserole

Crock Pot Mac n' Cheese

Aunt Susie's and Grandma Chaney's Pea Salad

Carrots, Celery, Cucumbers, Cherry Tomatoes & Ranch for dippin'

Great Grandpa Hill's Fruit Salad

Mom's Deviled Eggs

Hummingbird Sheet Cake

Emily's Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream

Lemonade, Iced Tea and Water

My Mom and Dad made their recipes and I recruited my daughter to help me in the kitchen with the rest of the menu. She also busied herself by creating table tent labels for each of the dishes so we could share who gave the recipe. She has such an artist eye and they turned out beautifully.

My first job was to get the pea salad recipe from my Grandmother. I had never made it before and didn't even realize that it had made Sarah Parker's favorite foods list. Grandma was able to give it to me over the phone from memory and convinced me it was pretty easy to put together. I had a church potluck coming up and decided to test it then.

As you can see from the picture below our pea salad was a big hit. The recipe isn't amazingly difficult but it doesn't disappoint. So, for this week's Tasty Tuesday I encourage you to whip up your own batch of Aunt Susie and Grandma Chaney's Pea Salad and start a new tradition.

Aunt Susie and Grandma Chaney's Pea Salad

Ingredients:

2 cans of peas drained

2 stalks of celery chopped

1 medium onion diced

3 hard boiled eggs chopped

1/2 cup of mayonnaise

salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Place the peas, celery, onion, eggs and mayonnaise in a large bowl and mix to combine. Add in salt and pepper to taste. Once all of the ingredients are combined cover the salad and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight to let the flavors meld.

This recipe serves 4 - 6 people. It can easily be doubled to feed a larger crowd.

Our hosts for Tasty Tuesday are

Nap Time Creations, Leah Says Views, Anyonita Nibbles,

Healthful Mind Body and Soul, and Full Time Mama

Our host for Two Cup Tuesday is
Pint Sized Baker

Mosaic Monday: Back to School

2013-08-26T07:30:00.000-05:00

We have survived the first full week of school in the Elliott house. My daughter is starting to enjoy being a second grader and I am getting back into the routine of backpack checks, homework and making lunches. I have attended my first PTO meeting and had a meeting with the principal (Not what you think. They wanted a parents perspective on the school). I am looking forward to another exciting year!

Mary of Little Red House is our hostess for Mosaic Monday

Each mosaic is unique and has it's own story to tell.

The Simple Woman's Daybook - Friday, August 23, 2013

2013-08-23T23:30:00.000-05:00

Outside my window...it was a sunny day in Lawrence, KS. We are wrapping up summer with warmer temperatures. There's still time to hit the swimming pool before it gets cold again.

I am thinking...about all the things I haven't checked off my to-do list due to a yucky upper respiratory virus I got a couple weeks ago. I have been to the doctor twice and I'm taking an antibiotic finally. I've tried a cough suppressant and that doesn't seem to be helping that much. I also have tried Zyrtec to rule out allergies and that just knocked me out the next day and made me feel like a zombie. I am hopeful about the antibiotic. Keeping my fingers crossed.

I am thankful for...my Mom. Even though we get on each other's nerves and know just how to push each other's buttons she is my biggest supporter. I love you Mom!

I am wearing...A cute knit dress in gray, navy, yellow and orange color blocking. It is so comfortable. I just throw on a pair of sandals and a couple jewelry accessories and I am good to go.

I am remembering...my years in elementary school. My daughter started second grade this month. I was reminded of my second grade teacher. She shared a little bit about herself that first week on an About Me board that we all got to do sometime before the year ended. She had a black belt in karate, a dog or cat named taco and loved to read books. I also remember her special chalk holder that she used when writing on the black board. We read "The Velveteen Rabbit" that year and counted to 100 on paper.

I am currently reading...I have done a ton of reading this summer both personally and with my kids. Both kids and I finished the Lawrence Public Library's reading program in July with one more month to go in the summer. I usually have a few books going at once. Here's what I am currently reading:

Craft Inc. Business Planner

by Meg Mateo Ilasco

Craft, Inc. Revised Edition: The Ultimate Guide to Turning Your Creative Hobby into a Successful Business

by Meg Mateo Ilasco

The Complete Worship Service: Creating a Taste of Heaven on Earth

by Kevin J. Navarro

L. Frank Baum's OZ: The Marvelous Land of Oz

by L. Frank Baum

For the past couple years I have signed up for the Reading Challenge that goodreads offer. I decided to double my reading goal this year so I could also start tracking the many children's books that I have been reading with my kids. We read a minimum of two chapters a night together right before bed and I thought I should be getting credit for that, too. Here's my progress:

2013 Reading Challenge

Emily has read 31 books toward her goal of 48 books.

hide

31 of 48 (64%)

view books

I am hoping...for less stress in my life. It has been a crazy couple years and I need some relief. One great big thing that has finally happened is my divorce. I will still have to co-parent with this person for the time being but otherwise this has been a much needed change that I welcome. I also hope to control more of my earning potential in the coming months by expanding my blogs and looking for more income opportunities. I lost my 8 - 5 job last spring and it hasn't been easy finding a new one.

On my mind...When I read food labels it saddens me when things are added that really have no business being added to the product. I recently went to buy canned beans because I didn't have time to soak my own for a recipe and the third ingredient was corn syrup. Why would a form of sugar be added to a can of beans that will just be put in a casserole and eaten? I have enough problems with sugar in my diet. I don't need it added secretly for me. It also drives me nuts that if I want to buy the product that does not have sugar added it costs me twice as much. That just doesn't make any sense to me. I refuse to buy these products.

Noticing that...I have way too many tabs open on my web browser at the moment. So many things I want to read that I can't bare to close any of them right now. I would bookmark for later but my bookmarks are extremely unorganized right now. I imported my bookmarks into my new browser but haven't added them to my folders. That could take most of an afternoon and I have just been putting it off.

Pondering these words...

All Inspirational Pics

From the kitchen...I have been focusing on 100% real food as much as I can and trying new recipes. My personal goal would be to by an 100% real food family but I know that might not be always practical. I have worked on staples like vegetable stock, soaking and cooking my own beans, and breads. I have relied heavily on my slow cooker and my bread machine. I really want to get another slow cooker and another bread machine so I can have them both working for me at once. It never fails that I want to make stock and spaghetti sauce at the same time but only one slow cooker. I also have been making dough and really could use two batches at once especially when we are using the dough for pizza night. I will be keeping my eyes open at thrift stores and yard sales to see what I can find.

Around the house...We are getting ready for my daughter's 7th birthday party tomorrow. We are finally heading to the neighborhood pool and inviting all of her classmates to join us. Last year we tried this and the birthday girl was sick so we had to cancel. This year we are bound and determined to have this party!

I am behind on a lot of things due to illness so the house has suffered a bit. My room in particular that also serves as my office has seen better days. I got down most of my yarn storage to go through it and prepare new projects for fall right before I caught this nasty virus. The last thing I have wanted to do is put it all away just yet. I will get there though, I promise.

One of my favorite things...Dark chocolate truffles have won me over recently. Just heavenly!

From my camera...We have enjoyed getting outside this summer and taking advantage of some great programs in our community. My first picture high lights a visit to the Carnegie Library building after a Kidapaloosa event for elementary aged kids. The bottom two pictures are of the front garden we have at home that has just grown like gangbusters. The butterflies have sure enjoyed it.

Mosaic Monday: Stigmeric

2013-08-05T07:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday!

Have you ever wondered what you would look like with your head put on an insect body? I got a unique opportunity to try it out with a hand printed art piece. I took a printing class last fall at the Lawrence Arts Center and met the artist, Patrick Vincent. Patrick has an on-going collaborative project where you submit a photo of your face and a bug suggestion and he creates an image on linoleum. He is inviting us to connect with a part of the natural world that is often ignored.

Before Patrick concluded his artist in residence at the Lawrence Arts Center he shared his recent works in a gallery show called Stigmeric. It was so exciting to see not only my face on an insect but the faces of my two kids as well. Enjoy!

Mary of Little Red House is our hostess for Mosaic Monday.

Each mosaic is unique and has it's own story to tell.

10 Things To Do Before Summer Ends

2013-08-01T07:00:00.000-05:00

1. Go to the movies and take advantage of the free air conditioning.

2. Visit a local park you have always wanted to try and take a picnic along. Don't forget some nice, juicy watermelon.

3. Attend an outdoor concert and enjoy some live music.

4. Get a Tad's Snow Cone. A Lawrence, KS favorite!

5. Get to your farmers market and try some local produce. Create a salad your whole family will enjoy.

6. Hit a few Yard Sales and find a few treasures.

7. Spend some time in nature. Take a trail walk or find a local garden you want to explore.

8. Take a few photos of you and your family to remember great summer memories

9. Go for a swim

10. Find a hammock or comfy chair outdoors and take the time to enjoy a good book.

What's on your summer's must do list?

Mosaic Monday: Summer Concert Experience

2013-07-31T00:13:00.000-05:00

For this post let's pretend this is Monday and I am not late in posting. Thanks so much!

One of my personal goals for the last couple years is to take in as much live music as I can. It has been slow going but I am still keeping this goal high on my list. Catching a free summer concert in the park makes meeting this goal a piece of cake.

Bring your favorite lawn chair and join me!

Mary of Little Red House is our hostess for Mosaic Monday.

Each mosaic is unique and has it's own story to tell.