home[made]

My Man Jeeves

2012-01-26T11:18:00.000-06:00

Meet Jeeves.

Isn't he beautiful? Thanks Mom and Dad!

That's right. I named my KitchenAid mixer after the amazingly brilliant and reliable butler from the delightful P.D. Wodehouse books. This name suits my new mixer because he truly can do anything. Today he did something quite amazing. He whipped up a batch of body butter so light and fluffy it looked like butter cream icing. It's just the thing for Duncan's dry winter skin (and my dry hands)!

Ingredients:

11 oz Shea Butter

2 oz Jojoba Oil

2 oz Coconut Oil

2 Tablespoons Corn Starch

Directions:

Melt shea butter in microwave safe bowl, ~ for 2 minutes. A few smallish lumps may remain, stir to melt.

Stir in coconut oil, melted shea butter should melt the coconut oil, but can microwave ~ 10 second increments if necessary. Stir in jojoba oil.

Dump into mixer bowl and add corn starch.

Whip for 15-20 minutes. Texture and shade should start to change.

Rest for 5 minutes.

Whip 15 minutes, it should stick to the edge of the bowl, and be cooling/hardening.

Put in the fridge for 10 minutes.

Scrape down the sides of the bowl, whip for 10 minutes.

Scrape down the sides of the bowl, whip for 10 minutes.

Repeat as necessary until you like the consistency.

Thanks Amy for posting this recipe on Facebook!

The result was a lovely and fluffy lotion! I tried it on my hands, and it soaked in quickly and left them feeling soft. I was able to fill up two empty lotion containers with the whipped shea butter! Here's to saving money and getting rid of dry skin! Thank You, Jeeves!

life lately

2012-01-24T15:16:00.002-06:00

Winter finally arrived in Chicago. We've tried not to completely hide indoors and have gotten out and played since Duncan enjoys it so much.

Last week, we spent the day at Ikea. I bought some frames and added a gallery wall in my living room. I also added a chair saved from the garbage!

And of course I've been doing lots of cooking and Starbucks visiting!

today

2012-01-11T12:24:00.001-06:00

I'm amazed that we haven't had more than a dusting of snow and that it's already January. The forty-eight degree weather called to us and we headed down to the park today.

Sometimes I still feel the need to pinch myself when I walk around our neighborhood. I can't believe that I can see the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears) when I walk a block from our apartment.

In the midst of winter, it is a wonderful blessing to be reminded of the beauty around me and how thankful I am to be in Chicago!

I hope you enjoy your today as much as we are!

Reading Recap

2012-01-05T17:05:00.000-06:00

I love Goodreads. I use it to keep track of what I've read and also find suggestions for new things to read. I wish I had more friends who used it (hint, hint)! If you do, please add me as your friend! Last year, I set a personal goal for myself to read 40 books in a year. It seemed like a crazy goal since I had a new toddler running around, but I decided to try my best to reach it. Not only did I reach it, I passed it and ended up reading 44 books last year! This year, I'm pushing myself even more by trying to read 50 books in 2012. If you follow me, you will notice that I read broadly. Last year I read gardening and cooking memoirs, biographies and history, classics, and young adult fiction. Here are a few of my favorites from 2011:

The Hunger Games Trilogy

I couldn't put this series down (much to the dismay of Duncan)! I would recommend reading this before the first movie comes out in March. I haven't met anyone who doesn't love these books, and if they don't, then you might need to question their taste in reading material (joking..somewhat)! If you've read The Hunger Games Triology, then I would recommend Divergent or Legend as good books to read next.

The Kitchen Counter Cooking School

I love cooking and especially enjoy reading memoirs of chefs and foodies. Reading Kathleen Flinn's book gave me new inspiration and encouragement for my own cooking adventures, and she had some great (and simple) recipes in her book. I've already tried her Alfredo sauce which was quick and delicious! I would also recommend her other book The Sharper Your Knife, the Less You Cry which is about her studies at Le Cordon Bleu cooking school in Paris.

At Home

I've never met a Bryson book I didn't like. Who else but Bryson could make a book about the history of bathrooms, utensils, and wallpaper interesting?

Jane Eyre

I adore all Jane Austen novels, so I wasn't sure how Bronte's novel would stack up against Ms. Austen's works. This story doesn't have the wit of Austen's books, but it has a strong female character with the odds stacked against her. The story is compelling, and I stayed up way too late finishing this book!

Church Planting is for Wimps

Mike McKinley wrote an honest and funny account of his experience revitalizing a dying church. Regardless of whether or not you plan on church planting, this book would be encouraging for any pastor or pastor's wife who is involved in the ins and outs of church life!

If you would like to see what else I read in 2011 and follow along with me in my quest to read 50 books in 2012, click below.

Check out my books on Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/172481-toria

Do you have any suggestions for my 2012 reading list?

Scenes from Christmas

2012-01-03T09:46:00.001-06:00

The past week and a half has been filled with family visiting us in Chicago and a road trip to Tennessee to see my family. It also involved good food, zoo visits, and hot chocolate. Don't think it gets much better than that!

Hot Chocolate with Daddy

opening presents Christmas morning

pork tenderloin, mashed potatoes, and cornbread

dolphin show at Brookfield Zoo

two little joeys

face painting fun

enjoying his new tent with Bebe

banjo pickin' with Tay

Cumberland River at Fort Donelson

PDub's Cinnamon Rolls

enjoying Pop's steaks

road trip to Patti's Restaurant in Grand Rivers, KY

mile high chocolate meringue pie at Patti's

Hope you had a blessed and merry Christmas! I'm eagerly anticipating the new year before us and excited about all the Lord has planned for my family!

oh, by the way...

2011-12-23T08:53:00.000-06:00

This summer, our agency approached us about a possible birthmom and asked if we would consider creating a profile book that would be shown to her. The birthmom chose to keep the baby, but it did prompt us to begin the process of officially applying for the domestic program with our agency. Kyle and I are both very eager to add children to our family, and our agency always needs families who want to adopt African American babies. At this point, we are done with everything and simply waiting to be picked by a birthmom. Our profile is actually being shown very soon so I will keep you posted on what we hear.

Amazingly enough, domestic adoptions aren't any cheaper than international adoptions! We are thankfully going to receive the adoption tax credit for D's adoption this next year, but we still thought it would be good to fundraise a bit more to help cover the cost of this second adoption. So, if you would like to support adoption #2 you can buy coffee from our store or click on the paypal button on the side of our blog and make a donation! Most importantly, we would appreciate your prayers during this time. Adopting is never a clear cut process. Pray that we would have patience during this waiting time and great love for the birthmom that will eventually choose us!

Thanks for joining us on this crazy ride!

Little Drummer Boy

2011-12-18T16:48:00.001-06:00

This weekend, our dear friends Jeff and Annie came over from Michigan and shared their singing gifts with us at Intersection Cafe. During one of the last songs, Annie graciously let Duncan play the drums with them. Needless to say, he enjoyed being in the band immensely! I'm going to have to enroll my baby in music lessons!

bits of happy

2011-12-07T15:19:00.001-06:00

the lights adorning every tree around the city

a pile of library books

an impromptu game of father/son catch

the hodgepodge of ornaments adorning my (first ever) real Christmas tree

[p]inspiration

2011-11-28T19:59:00.001-06:00

Like many of you, I'm addicted to Pinterest. In the last week, I finally got around to completing a few DIY projects I'd pinned and thought I'd share them with you. I've included a link to my Pinterest inspiration under each picture. And if you are not yet on Pinterest, you should be, and if you are, let's be Pinterest friends! I'm always looking for new craft ideas!

Yarn Wreath

Felt Dot Garland

Embroidery Hoops with Fabric

thankful

2011-11-27T17:25:00.001-06:00

For the past few days, we were graced with the presence of my lovely sister, funny brother-in-law, and their dog Grover. We spent a lovely Thanksgiving with them lazying around in our pjs, watching the Macy's Day Parade, and eating delicious food.

Friday and Saturday were filled with Starbucks runs (to see our favorite barista at work), playing at a park in the West Loop, football (roll tide!), shopping, and enjoying dinner and fun with friends.

What a fun-filled Thanksgiving weekend! Thanks CJ and Tay Tay for spending your break with us. We miss you guys already!

baking

2011-11-22T07:59:00.001-06:00

Yesterday, my young apprentice and I began the process of baking in preparation for my sis, brother-in-law, and their pooch's visit! We can't wait for them to arrive! While we are waiting, we are going to make granola, cinnamon rolls, chocolate chip cookies, and blueberry pie! Good thing I have such an eager assistant!

instructing a toddler's heart

2011-11-11T14:58:00.001-06:00

Almost every morning, Duncan and I sit down on the couch and read a chapter from The Big Picture Story Bible. We've already read through this once and are now on our second reading. Duncan loves the pictures and is beginning to remember some of the stories and general themes. After we read the story, we review his First Catechism booklet which is a children's version of the Westminster Shorter Catechism. Duncan has memorized eight questions so far. After reviewing his questions, we pray together, recite the Lord's prayer, and sing the Doxology. Sometimes we also recite The Apostles Creed together as well. I've been struck lately with the importance of sitting down and spending time in God's word with Duncan. By making this a priority, I hope I'm demonstrating the importance of prayer and Bible study to him. At this point, Duncan definitely doesn't understand much of what he has memorized, but I pray that the Lord will use this knowledge that Duncan has in his head and move it into his heart!

Because I want to always remember his little voice reciting the catechism and Lord's prayer, I couldn't resist capturing him on my flip!

family time

2011-11-02T17:08:00.001-05:00

The past few days have been fun-filled in our home. We had Kyle's parents and brother and sister-in-law up for a visit. We packed in a lot of fun (and a lot of people) into our little place and loved every minute of it! Here are a few highlights of our time with the Edwards' clan:

Bebe, Kyle, and Poppa at the Lincoln Park Zoo

Kiki, Duncan, and Lukie with downtown views at the Lincoln Park prairie.

beautiful Chicago

Duncan running to his Bebe!

We have a new barista in our house!

Playing at the park

Bike ride on the Lakeshore path!

Brothers taking in the views on the trail.

Heading back to the car

Tennessee Time

2011-10-25T20:27:00.000-05:00

Last week, Duncan and I flew down south for a few days of fun with my family. My sister even flew in from NYC to join us. We packed a lot into a few days which meant a lot of driving - Manila (in Arkansas), Paris, and Nashville. Thankfully Duncan is an excellent traveler! A highlight of the trip was enjoying the beautiful weather and playing at Centennial Park in Nashville. Needless to say, Duncan and I were both thoroughly spoiled over the weekend!

Thanks Dad and Mom for flying us down for a visit!

does it have to end?

2011-10-23T19:47:00.001-05:00

It was a gorgeous Chicago day. We couldn't resist a family bike ride this afternoon to a nearby park. With winter looming ever closer, we have to enjoy every last bit of beautiful fall weather that we have left.

remembering one of the happiest days of my life

2011-10-21T11:59:00.001-05:00

It's hard to believe that it has been a year since I saw these beautiful faces waiting for me at the Birmingham airport.

I was jet-lagged and definitely not looking my best, but oh so happy to be home with Duncan.

I will never forget the relief I felt when we landed in Birmingham. The waiting for him to come home was over. Duncan was on the same continent with me!

The love and support of our family and friends was amazing. They prayed with us, supported us financially, and cheered us along on our adoption journey. As I remember that day, I smile and thank God for putting all of these wonderful people in my life!

Happy one year anniversary of being stateside Duncan!

* Special thanks to Laura Rowe who took all of the beautiful pictures of our homecoming!

i heart her

2011-10-14T20:57:00.002-05:00

I'm having a great time in Tennessee. Tonight I had the chance to see my sweet college roommate Lacey. Tomorrow, more fun with family - including my sis! Stay posted. More pictures to come soon.

Apple Pickin'

2011-10-11T21:55:00.000-05:00

Today our moms and tots group ventured to the country for a little apple picking fun. Duncan loved ~~picking~~ eating the apples.

After I finished picking 25 pounds of Keepsake, Melrose, and Enterprise apples (and Duncan finished eating four apples), we headed over to the petting zoo and play area for a bit of fun before our trip back to Chicago.

I can't look at this picture without laughing!

20.3

2011-10-10T21:58:00.000-05:00

Today we decided to take advantage of the gorgeous weather and Kyle's day off and took a bike ride. A LONG bike ride - 20.3 miles to be exact. Thankfully we took a break at Promontory Point and enjoyed a picnic lunch and a chance to stretch our legs.

lunch time

our faithful steeds

running laps

stretching their legs

beautiful Chicago

Finally...a picture proving I was on the adventure too!

Biking around the city is our favorite family activity. I'm dreading the fast approaching winter months that will prevent us from getting out and exploring on two wheels.

'tis the season

2011-10-05T19:53:00.002-05:00

Now that fall is upon us, it's the perfect time to enjoy recipes with pumpkin puree. Last year, I roasted a pumpkin and made my own pumpkin puree. I used some last year and then froze the rest. Today, I finally retrieved that mason jar of frozen pumpkin from the back of my freezer. It's time to put it to good use! This led me to search for a some great pumpkin recipes. First up, chocolate chip pumpkin bread. I found this recipe from the Tasty Kitchen blog and it is so good. Give this a try if you've got some pumpkin on hand.

Did I mention there are chocolate chips in this bread?

After some begging on my part, I convinced Duncan to give it a try?

It's safe to say, this bread is Duncan approved!

I still have about three cups of puree left. Stay tuned for more pumpkin recipes!

Orphan No More

2011-10-04T15:01:00.000-05:00

Last year, I stood before a judge with shaky knees holding a sleeping baby. Her windows were open to let in a (hot) breeze. Outside I could hear jackhammers which meant I couldn't hear anything the judge was saying. She spoke very softly and the jackhammers completely droned our her voice. I stared at her and attempted to read her lips praying that her answer would be yes. I prayed that she would allow the heavy bundle in my arms to come home to become a part of a forever family. At one point, she looked up at me and smiled and I knew it was a yes. I knew that from this point forward my life would never be the same. When I left that the judge's chambers and found my friend Michelle I couldn't stop smiling. Every tear shed, every prayer cried, every roadblock had led to this beautiful moment. Michelle kindly offered to text Kyle the news, and when she asked what I wanted her to say, the first thought in my head was 'orphan no more'.

celebrating after the judge's ruling at a French restaurant in Kampala

Happy Gotcha Day Duncan! We are so thankful that the Lord gave us such an incredible son!

Sous-Chef

2011-10-03T21:36:00.001-05:00

I have a new helper in my kitchen. His desire to help in the kitchen meant he needed his very own apron (made from leftover scrap fabric). One day this guy may open his very own restaurant. When the chef is this good looking, who wouldn't want to eat there?

Happy Birthday Sis!

2011-09-27T20:41:00.000-05:00

Today is my beautiful sister's 26th birthday! For the past few months, I've been working tirelessly trying to convince her to leave her NYC home and move to Chicagoland. Thus far, I've had no luck convincing her. I've pulled out all of my best tricks - sending her Craigslist apartments that are bigger (and cheaper) than NYC apartments, having Duncan say "Please move to Chicago CJ" on her voicemail, and sending her job possibilities. She's been unrelenting (but patient) in her refusals, and I hope she knows my pleading has been out of a deep seated desire to have her nearby because I miss her daily presence in my life. Phone calls and Skype are great, but not as great as seeing her face to face. All that to say, I love you sis and hope you have a blessed birthday. And IF you decide to move to Chicago, we have several places for rent down the block!

what a difference a year makes

2011-09-16T07:33:00.000-05:00

A year ago today, we met our son for the first time.

I can't imagine life without this little guy. It's amazing to see how much he has grown and changed over this past year. But come to think of it, it's amazing how much I've grown and changed too.

Thanking the Lord today for his gift!

our week according to hubby's [new] smartphone

2011-09-02T12:00:00.000-05:00

Legoland

Chicago River near Trump Tower

garden full of peppers, basil, and tomatoes

children's museum at Navy Pier

day at the beach

my feet will serve as proof that I was actually present during this fun-filled week