what carly did

Today in France

2010-07-18T15:58:00.000-07:00

Today was the day I caught up on my sleep. I wasn't feeling well and I think it has been all the planes, trains and car rides through the French mountains, along with jet lag, along with constantly being on the go with 5 hours (or less) sleep each night. I didn't wake up until quite late and then took a nap this afternoon. It was much needed.

Tonight we did travel about an hour to the town of Rodez to go cheer on Team Japan in the FIBA tournament. Random, I know. The family I am with here in France has a daughter who plays on the team. In fact, she is the captain of the team. I don't even really like basketball, but this was the funnest game I have ever been to! Japan won by like 20 points. I think my favorite part were the cheerleaders/dancers. They were such a hot mess. It was very entertaining, yet so painful to watch!

So, once again, no pictures. Sorry. But I will tomorrow. We are going to visit some cheese caves...?

Traveling Day

2010-07-17T14:32:00.000-07:00

Today we flew from Madrid to Lyon, France and from Lyon we drove to Millau, France. Our rental car came with navigation, so we were able to select the "senic" route over the "easier-less-complicated-boring" route. We wound our way through the mountains and into little villages that were so charming you wanted to die! At times the road wasn't any bigger than a golf cart path! It was incredible! The mountains were beautiful and the air was very refreshing!

Our castle sits atop a hill over looking the town of Millau. Our view to the right is the Millau Viaduct, "an enormous cable-stayed road-bridge that spans the valley of the river Tarn near Millau in southern France." And then our view to the left is the charming town of Millau set down in the valley. I can't wait to go get lost there! Tonight for dinner we found a small pizzaria and I had a pizza with stinky cheese, potatoes and ham. It was the employee's favorite kind so I thought I would give it a try. It tasted like funeral potatoes! Haha!

Spain Part Duex

2010-07-16T16:08:00.001-07:00

me, the tour guide, Ashley and Fabiola on a street in Segovia.

We went to a incredibly charming and beautiful city about an hour from Madrid called Segovia. It is here that the ruins of the aqueducts the Romans built in the 1st and/or 2nd century. No one knows for sure when they were built.

Amazing.

These aren't little either.

Simply amazing to see that kind of history.

Just a cute building in Segovia.

The streets were very tight and small. We had to step into doorways to let cars pass.

I want to live here. Right here. And swim in that pool.

The Castle in Segovia. One of the coolest structures I have ever been in. With fabulous views. But who am I kidding. Every which way you turn is a fabulous view.

It was breathtaking!

Street art in Madrid. I have seen a lot of really cool graffiti and street art here.

Plaza D Toros de Las Ventas. Translation: where the bull fighting takes place.

Me and the matador statue.

Me and Fabiola at the Prado museum in Madrid. Beautiful, classical paintings. Our guide took us through and pointed out important paintings from different artists with different styles and from different time periods. It was very edifying.

Spain Day 1

2010-07-16T15:21:00.000-07:00

My new BFF Fabiola! She is a girl that Ashley Wilkey-Packer converted while on her mission here to Madrid. She is Peruvian and living in Madrid. She is fluent in Spanish, English, French, Italian and German. And just about the cutest, sweetest thing EVER! I have had so much fun with her!

Plaza Mayor. Very charming and traditional. And all the cafes were exceptionally expensive.

Palacio Real

Me and my roomie! She has been a blast! Here at the gates of the Palacio Real (some palace).

One of my favorite attractions! The gourmet grocery store! It was like Spain's version of a Dean & DeLuca! Everything was beautiful and unique!

I bought the best nectarine ever!

Just a very charming street near the hotel. I love the cobblestone streets!

Maybe a real Matador? I don't know. I'm pretty sure he just wears the costume hoping tourists will give him money for a picture. I didn't pay him hahah!

Puerta Del Sol. A famous plaza near our hotel.

In Madrid

2010-07-15T05:52:00.000-07:00

We made it to Madrid. I absolutely love it here! More pictures to come:)

I see London

2010-07-14T16:15:00.000-07:00

It's true. I saw a quick version of London today. And I love it. So many things remind me of New York. I know I could live here easily. We got in just before noon and went to check into our hotel to freshen up after our flight on Virgin Atlantic. Virgin is a good one. I was impressed.

First thing we did was hop on the double decker bus. Cheesy, but really the best way to get a quick overview of the city. It hasn't been too humid and actually a little cold. We did have to get off the bus in the shopping district so I could go buy a jacket. Just my luck there was an Anthropologie right in front of the bus stop. Darn:) I'm glad I got it especially when it started to rain. A lot of rain.

Anyway, all my pics are from the top of the bus. And none of them have me in it. Sorry mom.

After our bus tour, we made our way back towards Victoria Station (our main hub) because we went to Wicked which was so conveniently located right around the corner. I have never seen this show (sad, I know) and I absolutely loved it! The story, the music, the staging and costumes! Amazing! I know I sound like a broken record because that is what everyone thinks of it, but it is so true! The story is so clever and SO funny and so sweet! I was in tears during the number "For Good" (you can listen to it here. maybe) Really an incredible show! I had tried reading the book and hated the book, but really, the two are different.

Today was really great! I love it here! My feet are blistered. I am tired, jet-lagged and sore, but I will worry about those things when I get home and back to reality:)

Tomorrow, we get up early and head down to Madrid! Amazing, right!?!

I miss you guys! Give Maggie a kiss:)

Let's Give it Another Go!

2010-07-12T11:02:00.000-07:00

Ok, my last attempt at blogging. If I stop again, that's it. I'm done. The revival is coming so I have somewhere to post my pictures from my upcoming trip for my family, friends and anyone else who stops by.

Tomorrow, I leave for Europe! I am so excited! I've never been across the big blue ocean that way. London, Madrid and the South of France. I don't know which location I am more excited for! London because... well, it's London. Madrid, since I have always had a small obsession with Spain. But more importantly since Spain just won the World Cup! Madrid is going to be out of control! And France *sigh*. It'll be a dream! We will be staying in a beautiful chateau dating back to the 12th century.

This trip is all so-last minute! I will be helping in the kitchen in France, going to the local market, and preparing meals for the group! Literally my dream!

You can hate me. I would hate me too! Check back when you can since I will try to upload pics everyday.

Bonjour!

The Art of Racing in the Rain

2010-01-06T15:55:00.001-08:00

Stop whatever it is that you are doing. You must read this book! It is fabulous and oh so delightful! Go. You can thank me later. And, if you want to borrow my copy, you have to wait until I finish it... again.

Business Card/Gift Card Holders

2010-01-04T20:06:00.000-08:00

Maybe this post would have come handy.... oh I don't know... maybe before Christmas:) Oh well! When I got my cards made, I wanted a cute little case to carry them in. I found a couple of cute little tutorials before just buying a silver metal one. Anyway, these would be great to use when gifting a gift card.

Martha Stewart Business Card Cases

Amy Butler Business Card Keeper

very cute!

Phew!

2010-01-01T21:31:00.000-08:00

Ok. It's all over. Now I can get back to posting! So much to show & tell:)

Real quick... The nephew is in Hawaii visiting his other grandparents. I wanted to die when my sister sent this picture! Look at those curls!

Jayson's hair + humidity = aDorAbLe!!!!

Happy New Year to all! And thank you to everyone for their Holiday wishes! I love getting cards in the mail with pictures to see all the changes that have taken place in the year!

Thread Sketching

2009-12-22T23:51:00.000-08:00

While surfing the blogosphere looking for ideas on what to make for those last minute gifts, I came across thread sketching on clutterplunk via sew, mama, sew. I don't know anything about it, but it looks self-explanatory. And I doubt there is a right way or a wrong way to do it.

This is right up my alley. I am totally going to give it a go tomorrow! I am going to be strapped to my machine trying to get it all done in time. Oh procrastination... there is nothing to push you like a deadline:)

Homemade Marshmallows

2009-12-20T20:59:00.000-08:00

I made homemade marshmallows a couple of Christmases ago. It was really fun, easy and super yummy. I want to try it again after seeing these chocolate dipped ones!

Help!!

2009-12-14T20:43:00.000-08:00

I think I am a little bored with my blog and layout and computer-y stuff. Does anyone out there want to spruce it up for me? I'm not exactly computer savvy. I'll trade you a sewing project for a blog face-lift.

Doesn't this fat-so scream "Merry Christmas!!"?

{image}

As Requested

2009-12-14T20:39:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, Maggie wouldn't come when I was calling to her, so I started searching all her "hiding places". I found her under the bed asleep:) And yes, she is wearing a snowman outfit.

And....

2009-12-14T19:26:00.000-08:00

I'm not really sure what I have been doing these past few weeks. I've been a little discouraged with my sewing... some of the last few projects I have attempted have not turned out the way I wanted {frowny face}. As in, the scrunchy-gathered scarf. The tutorial says it takes about 10 minutes and after 2 1/2 hours, I gave up. I thought about it all that night and came up with some ideas on why it wasn't working for me (thread tension who-ha) and gave it another go the next day and again gave up after about an hour. It's too bad because I have alot of knit fabric and elastic thread right now.

Then again, a lot of projects have turned out darling. I did some work for a friend when her daughter had a birthday almost 2 weeks ago. Turned out super cute! After seeing the pics, I'm pretty sure that it was the raddest cake ever!

This is the banner I made for the occasion. I used a new-to-me font as the inspiration for the lettering. Also, I hand-beaded(?) the flower on the end, just to give it a little sparkle.

And the cupcake shirt turned out great, too. A lot of hand-sewn tulle and detailed stitching on the applique and we were ready to party!

And also, I just got a little part-time job working at a quilting shop. Let's Quilt is a place where you bring in your quilt tops and bottoms and use our Innova Long Arm Quilting Machines to machine quilt your quilt. I am having so much fun! I get so excited to go to "work"! I have never been a quilter, but I have just started my first piecing project. I hope to get it done and in the mail before Christmas. I have quilted 3 quilts in the last 2 weeks... It seems that everyone's unfinished quilts are being pawned off to me to finish. I totally don't mind...I need the practice. I want to get really, really good:) Seriously, you should come in and give it a try. You can rent the machine for $15 an hour and get instant satisfaction with your skills of quilting. It is so fun and totally addicting!! Plus, you would get the added bonus of hanging out with me!

So, if you have any cool quilting-related anything, please send it my way! I want to learn as much about this new obsession as I can!

Please send to:

carlykillpack{at}gmail{dot}com.

Totally Busy

2009-12-02T21:20:00.000-08:00

I'm totally busy. Are you? WTF...? These shoes scare me. These are ankle-breakers fo sho!

I Want It!

2009-11-23T19:39:00.000-08:00

Because I am about as mature as a 12 year old boy, you can garuntee this marshmallow gun will be on my Santa list! Awesome.

Great Inventions

2009-11-19T02:38:00.000-08:00

I was in the store the other day and wandered into the toy aisle to start getting excited about all the toys I want to get baby J for Christmas. Awesomest re-design of a classic toy: The Self-Inflating Whoopee Cushion!!!! No longer do you have to stop your prankster ways and fill the balloon up with air! We all know how annoying that is. Having to do so can make or break the joke. I surprised myself by not buying it on the spot.

The bastards at Snuggie have now "invented" a Snuggie for Dogs. I want to hurt those idiots. And what is with the picture of the poodle just chillin in front of the TV like it's normal for a dog to be holding a remote and eating popcorn! Why not do the picture right and put a bottle of beer in the animal's empty paw!? Seriously? Seriously.

p.s. I know my dog wears clothes, but for a real reason.

So Sweet:Magpie Lovely

2009-11-16T09:44:00.000-08:00

Bird with Cream Berries

Happy Hedgehog Berries

Ivory Cowl

Such sweet gift ideas from Magpie Lovely. I want to make them all:)

I Need to Live Here

2009-11-16T09:33:00.001-08:00

Thank you Alana for this link for Pumpkin Pasta! Sounds delish!! But more important than that... I probably need to move so I can live in these photos! This place is a dream!

Images found here

Yes, Please

2009-11-15T18:51:00.000-08:00

Why didn't I think of this? I love Snickers. and chocolate and caramel and apples....

Cranberry Pumpkin Cookies

2009-11-15T18:32:00.000-08:00

We cooked down our pumpkins and now have a freezer full of puree. The first thing I made were these Cranberry Pumpkin Cookies. I've never used fresh cranberry in a cookie before, it's always been craisins for me. The cranberry is nice and tart next to the pumpkin flavor. I melted down some chocolate chips and drizzled it over the cookies. Very yummy!

The next item up to be baked is the most delicious pumpkin bread EVER! Downeast Maine Pumpkin Bread. Try it. It doesn't disappoint. Do you have any pumpkin recipes I have to try? I want to try a pasta with pumpkin...

Ethiopian Airlines

2009-11-15T08:25:00.000-08:00

I got an email from Ethiopian Airlines today. I know what you are thinking, because I thought it too... Ethiopia has an airline? When you were a kid and you didn't want to finish your dinner, didn't your mom say, " There are starving children in Ethiopia that would be grateful for this food."? Didn't those comments paint a picture of what Ethiopia must be like? A poverty-stricken, third world country? I had those same thoughts (judgements) when some friends wanted to go out to an Ethiopian restaurant in NYC. We joked that we didn't know Ethiopia even had food to call their own. So thoughtless! BTW, the food was delicious (going in)! It was basically a large platter with several different hummus-like pastes you ate with pita. All vegan. Pat and I both had the hershey squirts for a few days after.

Anyway, I learned from my email that Ethiopian Olympian, Derartu Tulu, became the first woman from Ethiopia to win the New York City Marathon when she crossed the finish line with a time of 2 hours, 28 minutes and 52 seconds. Wow and wow.

Food, Inc.

2009-11-12T16:31:00.001-08:00

Check out the trailer for Food, Inc.

My Thoughts Lately

2009-11-10T16:27:00.000-08:00

A couple of nights ago, Patrick and I watched Food, Inc. About 15 minutes in, I was in tears. I was so angry I was crying! Let's just say that ignorance is NOT always bliss. Knowledge is power and I want to know more! I am disgusted and infuriated with the corporations who are disrespecting animals, farmers & workers, the environment and ME. I've come to the conclusion that in order to protect my family, I am going to have to become a farmer. I don't want my children eating all the disgusting things that are so common in the grocery store. What a dream it would be if everything that I put on my table was the result of my own labor, literally! While that isn't exactly feesible at the moment, I plan to plant a small backyard garden, shop farmer's markets, and buy organic on all I can.

So, my question... Do any of you know anyone who raises cows, pigs, chickens naturally and respectfully, that sells the meats, milk and eggs. I want to support local farmers or gardeners and am willing to pay the little extra it takes.

Hungry for Change has a blog and a suggested reading list. I have been wanting to read Michael Pollan's In Defense of Food for some time now and just ordered it from Amazon. Have you read it? Mr. Pollan is interviewed throughout the movie giving insight into how we can change our eating habits and health.

Please watch this movie! "You will never look at dinner the same again!" Oh, so true!!

Deer Strategy

2009-11-10T00:36:00.000-08:00

Who actually takes the time to stitch this!!!!!! I'm LOLing! Seen on Zoetropa.

The Nutcracker

2009-11-07T15:01:00.000-08:00

I had a friend recently email me with questions about what to do and see when she goes to New York in December. Oh the jealousy!! December is a magical time in the city! There are so many lovely and beautiful things to do and see!

As I got thinking about what to tell her, I had memories of going to The New York City Ballet's performance of The Nutcracker. Sigh. That night was truly one of my most favorite nights in the city. Although, I am a sucka for ballet. The dancing was incredible, the costumes and set were fabulous and the music was phenomenal. But, I think it was the theater itself that really did it for me. To be sitting up on the first balcony in such a famous building, surrounded by red velvet, staring down at all the formal gowns, jewels and tuxedos of the rich was delightful eye candy! And all the children in their best dresses. I swear it was so cliche! I tried to avert my eyes from the tennis-shoe, fanny-pack, camera-happy, tired tourists so they couldn't ruin the general splendor.

Anyway, George Balanchine's The Nutcracker should be on everyone's "see before I die" list. I think.

Book Wreath

2009-11-07T11:04:00.000-08:00

Seen on Craftig: this darling book wreath. I love this idea and totally want to make one. Unfortunately I don't really have anywhere to put it at the time being. And I am totally NOT a wreath kinda gal. But I could be.

The tutorial comes from Living with Lindsay. You could totally use this idea with sheet music, too. That would be kinda cool.

Beauty

2009-11-03T13:10:00.000-08:00

Around my 25th birthday, I found my first wrinkle. It's on my chin and you would never be able to see it, unless I pointed it out to you. The point is, I felt totally cheated. I (think I) take really good care of my skin. I wash morning and night, wear a spf 15 everyday, exfoliate once a week or so, use a separate eye cream, night cream, toner blah, blah, blah. The point is, I am not old enough to have wrinkles! And I can only do so much to prolong the inevitable.

I bought Bobbi Brown's Living Beauty a few years ago and reread it today. (p.s. I love Bobbi Brown's make-up! I love that she is all about natural beauty) I love Chapter 1: Role Models... words of wisdom from women who have come of age beautifully. And then Chapter 9: Beautiful Inside and Out... women who get it. The famous women in this book help me realize that my beauty doesn't have much to do with how other's perceive me, but how I feel about me.

I love what Susan Sarandon says, "When I was a kid I sought beauty in perfection. As I got older I began to value the imperfect for it is there that the unique, the authentic, is manifest. It is there that we see that which makes an individual unique. I am moved by anything that reminds me of the vulnerability of life and the courage it takes to live."

And I love what Ann Curry says, "Beauty once seemed to me to be an accident of nature... But now that I can see my life on my face-the suffering in my brow, the joy in the tiny crow's feet, the confidence in my eyes-I realize we earn the way we end up looking. Time, it seems, gives us all a chance to really be beautiful."

One more. Marcia Gay Harden says, "I try to be beautiful in action and word-it can transform not just the physical (my face or body) but the energy between two people. Part of beauty is being open to change."

I know I have a whole lot of aging still to come. In the meantime, I love reminders and wisdom from older women to embrace who I am and to be comfortable with who I will become and to be happy, always.

My darling husband often tells me he loves my crow's feet around my eyes when I smile. He thinks my wrinkles are sexy.

via Postcards from Yo Momma

2009-10-31T21:46:00.000-07:00

Maybe you already saw this one, maybe not... I thought it was a good one. Go here for more goodies.

Love Story

I will seek and find you.

I shall take you to bed and have my way with you.

I will make you ache, shake & sweat until you moan & groan.

I will make you beg for mercy, beg for me to stop.

I will exhaust you to the point that you will be relieved when I’m finished with you.

And, when I am finished, you will be weak for days.

All my love,

The Flu

Now get your mind out of the gutter and go get your flu shot!

Best Stuff. EVER.

2009-10-31T00:34:00.000-07:00

This is my very most favorite hand soap and lotion. Of.all.time. Winter Forest by Williams Sonoma. It smells amazing. It's so winter-y. Time to stock up!

When Was the Last Time You...

2009-10-30T16:34:00.000-07:00

Watched Jurassic Park? It's Jayson's latest favorite movie! Silly, huh! He loves all the scary parts, especially when the T-Rex is on. When he gets scared he runs to the nearest adult and snuggles, but won't take his eyes of the TV. And, he throws a fit if you try to turn it off.

Seriously, who is this kid? What 19-month-old loves scary dinosaur movies?

He is RAD!!

2 Books

2009-10-29T15:39:00.000-07:00

2 books that will be making their way to my mailbox soon! I won a giveaway on sugar city journal for Carefree Clothes for Girls and Felting for Baby. I am thrilled with my luck as I have been eyeing these books for awhile now. I first read about Carefree here and have since seen it other places. And, as we all know, I am a sucker for Japanese anything.

I have been working on several projects and am excited to post pictures once they are finished. And with the holidays coming up, my sewing machine is going to be smoking! But, I love it!

Cashmere Elephant

2009-10-27T08:12:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I was invited to a baby shower for an old family friend. The cute mom and dad have decided to wait until the baby is born to find out the gender. I love that! I don't know if I could wait that long, the suspense would kill me, but I love it when people do. It's got to be the ultimate surprise in the delivery room.

Anyway, I had an old cashmere sweater that someone (whose name starts with a "P" and ends with "atrick") had put through the laundry, more importantly, the dryer, (allegedly) and shrunk the poor thing. You would think my sweet husband would learn after he put my leather & wool jacket through the dryer a few years ago. Love him.

So what was once this sweater....

became this elephant....

He was so much cuter in real-life. And so cuddly, too. The brown was corduroy and you can't see it, but the back of the ears was a texture different from the rest. The mom was so excited because she said it matched the nursery perfect.

Also, that picture of Patrick and I was taken at a rooftop restaurant in NYC where he took me to dinner for our 4th wedding anniversary. It was a lovely surprise.

Kolob

2009-10-26T15:35:00.001-07:00

It's really pretty where I live. I am very lucky to be surrounded by this...

Malory, Jessica (my sisters), Mom and me

Christmas Wishes #1

2009-10-21T20:27:00.000-07:00

With only 65 more days before Christmas, I decided to help Patrick out and do a little "window shopping" for him. Yes please, I will take one (or more) of the following...

Tiffany & Co. bangle

Frye Dorado Riding boot (ok, tiny picture)

Valencia Bottles, set of 3

Mark Jacobs Lola fragrance

That's all for today. I'm sure the list will continue to grow in the coming weeks:)

Old Eyeliner

2009-10-20T18:54:00.000-07:00

This is gross.

I was cleaning out my 2 old make-up bags today so that I can put the bags to better use and found a really, really, really old eyeliner. Old as in before-I-was-married old. Why I still had it is beyond me. I haven't used that pencil since it was new. Who keeps the same unused eye pencil for almost a decade?

Anyway, I popped the lid off to look at it and instantly regretted it. There was mold growing on it!!! Yes, M-O-L-D!!

I almost ralphed.

Happy Pumpkins

2009-10-20T11:14:00.001-07:00

Yeah for Fall! This made me giggle and I had to take a photo!

Long Time

2009-10-15T20:44:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since I've posted. I haven't been on any fabulous vacation (unfortunately) or actually done anything creative for a few weeks now. I haven't touched my sewing machine since the end of September and now October is halfway gone. I'm not exactly sure why. I just haven't felt the creative motivation to make anything. What have I been doing...? I really can't say! Although, I have read 5 books in the last 10 days... hhhmmm...

I did find a few things around blogland that have got me ready to get back on track though...

Crafthope has a new project that I want to contribute to. Quilts for homeless children in Michigan. I love these ladies that organize these opportunities to give. Thank you crafthope!!

Isn't this take-along quilt super cute! Crafthope has the pattern here.

A new-to-me site Frenchie & Flea is full of beautiful and inspiring everythings!! They are currently offering a giveaway of their services of Creative Consultation and Custom Design for Etsy and/or bloggers. One of the F&F authors just got married... go watch the trailer for her wedding video. You will be in awe at the beauty of this wedding! I watched it back-to-back like 5 times!

Off Frenchie & Flea, I came across UntamedPetals, an Etsy shop full of lovely and romantic things! I love her use of pearls and rhinestones, like in this UntamedFascinator.

Isn't that beautiful!?

From say YES! to hoboken, I found these great paper goods from paperwink. I have really been loving all the vintage airmail stuff out there right now.

the Airmail personalized notecard

custom rubber stamps

and the Telegram notecard.

And finally, just go to this site, The Best Part. You will like it.

Ok, one more. Are you familiar with the musician Philip Glass? He composes beautiful music and has done work on many movies, including The Hours, The Illusionist and No Reservations and many other notable works. I especially like the music from The Hours. It's a little haunting, just like the movie. On his site you can listen to selected music.

And Kate! I went to the post office on Monday to mail your package, but it was Columbus day. duh!! Look for it soon though:)

Quote D'Jour

2009-10-08T21:30:00.000-07:00

"Your Greatness is not what you have. It's what you Give."

image found here

Alice In Wonderland

2009-10-07T22:48:00.001-07:00

Who else is excited for this!?

Cotton Friend

2009-10-06T20:25:00.000-07:00

My parents got home from a trip to Japan last week and they brought home all kinds of goodies. I am so excited they brought me a copy of Japan's Cotton Friend, a popular crafting/sewing magazine that comes out quarterly. There is a flickr page here where you can see photos of past volumes and crafts people have made. And yes, it is completely written in Japanese, but lucky for me a know a guy that can read it:)

Cold Sores

2009-10-06T02:04:00.000-07:00

Let's talk about 'em. I hate them.so.much. I have one right now and they make me cranky. They throb, I can't smile or laugh, eat or drink without feeling the pain. They blister over and I wake up with little spots of blood on my pillowcase. I have to throw out all my lip glosses and chapsticks and get a new toothbrush. It's one of the lovely gifts my husband gave to me:) I get these bad boys about 2-3 times a year, usually when I am really stressed or really sick. In the past 10 months I have had 3 already. Not cool. Meet my friend Valtrex that helps the pain (and humiliation) slowly subside. And it costs a pretty penny, too. Try $15 a pill! But, worth it.

And, I can not believe I am going to post pictures of the dreaded event, but here goes...

It's like Botox gone wrong

Please don't have nightmares from the picture!

I have not a spot of make up on and that thing growing on my face is terrible!!

These pictures are from my first attack. It was in April 2006 after living in NYC for a few months. I woke up one Saturday morning with my upper lip the size of a golf ball and freaked out! This was my face we are talking about and I had NO IDEA what had happened! Patrick thought it might be a cold sore, but he had never seen one so swollen. He had to leave to go to school, so I decided to go have it checked out and hopefully get something to help it. Remember, it is a Saturday, I am somewhat new to the city and have not established a doctor.

I put on my jacket and walk down to 3rd Avenue to hail a cab uptown to the nearest ER. Once I get through with the novel of paperwork, I am taken back and put in a tiny closet of a room and wait for the doctor to come in. After an eternity, the doctor makes her way and spends all of point 3 seconds with me. She takes one look at my lip, rolls her eyes (not really) scribbles something on a prescription pad and explains that I have a cold sore before she walks out. My mind is screaming at her! "WHERE ARE YOU GOING!!!??? This is my face! It is deformed and I have no idea why!"

Defeated, I grab a cab towards the pharmacy by my apartment and set myself up for another embarrassment. At the pharmacy counter, I hand the technician my prescription and step aside to wait. After a few minutes the tech calls my name. ("Wow. That was fast.") She then explains to me that the doctor has prescribed Abreva, an OTC cream. Embarrassed, I buy the cream and go home to lock myself up for a week.

As you can imagine, the Abreva didn't do a thing and I had to ride this one out. I couldn't work and I didn't really leave the apartment. My face hurt so much!

Damn you cold sores!

"Love, Loss, and What I Wore"

2009-10-06T01:24:00.000-07:00

If I were in New York today, I would make my way to the Westside Theatre to see Nora & Delia Ephron's new show "Love, Loss, and What I Wore" based on the book by Ilene Beckerman.

First off, let's talk about how much I love Nora Ephron's work. All of it. This woman wrote, produced and/or directed three fabulous movies (among many other fine works) that I love... When Harry Met Sally, Sleepless in Seattle and You've Got Mail. Come on! Those are three quintessential chick-flicks that should be in every woman's collection! As well as her most recent book I Feel Bad About My Neck: And Other Thoughts About Being a Woman that I haven't actually read, but want to. I already know I like it.

Anyway, originally scheduled to run through December 13, the show has extended the dates for sometime in 2010. I hope I make it to NYC before it's over:)

Read reviews here and here.

Mustache Mania

2009-09-30T00:28:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry, but mustaches are hilarious! I love them! Note this. My husband always makes fun of me because I think Tom Selleck is hot! LOL!! Nothing better than a good nose mane!

For a my friend's daughter's 9th bday, I made her this "Mustache Mania" box with 9 different styles of staches! Once she opened it, we were all laughing so hard it hurt! Take a peek at these hilarious pictures...

The Stache Fam

Ms. W wearing the "Clark Gable"

S-man as "Charlie Chaplin" (not "Hitler")

Pat and S-man. So cute!

I was thinking of using this pic for our Christmas card... what do you think?

I had to do a little research to make sure I get all the right styles and came across a few wonderful sites/photos! So funny! Remember these...?

Ron Burgandy. I feel like I have STDs from just looking at him!

Sam Elliot. Now that's a cowboy!

El Nacho Libre. So creepy.

And this rad guy!

Here are a few good sites, too. Do you know of any I would love?

Top 10 Celebrity mustaches. I can't believe Magnum is only #3. Number 3!

awesomemustache.com actually doesn't have anything to do with awesome mustaches. lame.

And Movember is just around the corner! Can't wait! (Month of the mustache).

Have an iPhone? Go here now and download the Stachetastic app. Oh so awesome!

And I can't forget my favorite waiter at my favorite Italian restaurant in NYC. He was rockin his hairy upper lip!

Apple Picking

2009-09-29T00:56:00.000-07:00

While we lived in NYC, Patrick and I joined Zipcar, a car sharing program that is really big in cities. I can't remember all the details, but I think we paid a one-time set up fee and then anytime we wanted to rent a car we paid for the miles, or something. I can't really remember the money part of it. But, what was convienient was that there would be a small amount of cars parked in different garages all throughout the city. We could rent a car that was just a few blocks from our apartment instead of on the other side of the city. It was so fun to rent a little Mini and take weekend trips! But we also would rent a car for a few hours and go into Brooklyn to hit up Costco. (It was not fun trying to get home all of our purchases from Costco the first time we went.)

Maggie, Renee & me

Our first excursion was to upstate New York to go apple-picking in early October. It was something I have never done. My friend Renee went with us and I think between the 3 of us we picked 3 huge bags worth of apples. Over the next week, we peeled, chopped, baked and ate more apples than a person should. But, I love apple pie. It's in the Top 5 of pies. Do you have a delicious recipe that I need to try?

We've got a bunch of apples that I am going to use in a pie tomorrow. A couple of years ago, I came across a really yummy pie recipe that has a really sharp cheddar in the crust. It was amazing. I found a similar one here on Epicurious.

typical Renee

The Sartorialist

2009-09-24T12:16:00.000-07:00

I got a call from my brother yesterday. It went a little something like this...

(brinnnggg, brinnnggg) lol!

me: Hey! What's up?

Nick: Hi! I need your address.

me: Ok. Why?

Nick: To send you that book.

me: .....what book.....?

Nick: I went to the book signing you asked me to go to and I got you a signed copy.

me: WHAT!!!!???? YOU WENT????!!!!! I never heard back from you so I didn't think you went!!! OH MY GOSH!!! I am so jealous you went!!!!

Nick: Yeah, it was fun. There were a lot of industry people there.

me: I CAN'T BELIEVE IT!!! You are the BEST!!!

Nick: So....can I get your address?

That's right. I shall soon be receiving my own copy, autographed to me, that I can swoon and salivate over! It pays to have an awesome big brother who lives in an awesome city!

Thanks Nick!!

Good Hair ft. Chris Rock

2009-09-22T20:49:00.001-07:00

I read a review about Chris Rock's new movie Good Hair this weekend and I can not wait! Since Patrick went to hair school in NYC, he had plenty of opportunities to hear all the African American girls at his school talk about their hair and how intense it was. Those girls would obsess about their locks. I had no idea how much time and money they would put into their hair. It's nuts. He and I are both way excited to see this movie! Plus, it's Chris Rock and I think he is hilarious.

Oh, and I guess this premiered at Sundance... has anybody seen it yet?

Lady in Red

2009-09-22T14:31:00.000-07:00

Saturday was my baby sister, Kate's, homecoming dance. I told you she looked smokin' hot in her dress! I can't take all the credit for making the dress...I was super sick and my mom did a lot of it. But, I handstitched that ruffle around the neck and the damn thing took nearly 4 hours. I guess that is what happens when you are a perfectionist. Will I make this dress again?... I absolutely hope so! Maybe longer with a printed fabric... I thought it turned out so cute!

I didn't get any great pictures of her hair, but Patrick did a lovely french twist. It looked so elegant and simple. He didn't want her hair competing with her dress. Smart man. I love that I married a man who "gets" those kind of things:)

Oh, and I busted out this clutch in like point 2 seconds using this idea from lil blue boo. Love that blog! Although I didn't use a placemat, I just lined the silver fabric with really thick interfacing and went from there. Turned out cute enough:)

Rock Crayons

2009-09-20T22:47:00.001-07:00

I think these crayons would look so cute being used by stubby little fingers!

Zoetropa

2009-09-19T16:12:00.000-07:00

Horray for me! I won a giveaway from zoetropa! Lucky me, I will be receiving and using the following:1 red&orange leaves moleskine journal with grid lines
1 cabin design kraft note card + envelope
1 red canoe kraft note card + envelope
1 red canoe white note card + envelope
4 wooden magnets: bird, arrows, bird, shoes
1 wooden pony magnet

Thank you Pam!!!

Winn Claybaugh

2009-09-18T13:21:00.000-07:00

Finally, I am starting to feel a little better, other than a nagging cough. I better be done being sick for awhile. I am so sick of having to stay in my bed. Although, I did get some knitting and embroidery worked on:) I have had a busy last couple of days, too. I am making my sister Kate's dress for her semi-formal prom which is tomorrow. I'll have pics later because it is the cutest thing ever! She is smokin hot in it! She is so cute, a burlap sack would look totally hot on her! And I had another order for some bean bags that I forgot to take pics of and wish I would have because the bag I made for all of them turned out darling! It's a keeper for sure!

Almost 2 weeks ago, Bon-dawg (mi madre), Patrick, Kate and I went to a seminar/book signing for Winn Claybaugh's new book Be Nice (Or Else!). Mr. Claybaugh is the founder and co-owner of hair care giant Paul Mitchell’s school division, with more than 90 locations throughout the United States. He gave his seminar to the students of Paul Mitchell The School and since Kate just become a student (taking classes at night since she is still in HS), we were all invited (I think it was open to the public, too). With Patrick being the crazy-talented, super sexy hairstylist that he is, meeting Winn Claybaugh was so motivating for him. Winn is just the kind of mentor to help Patrick get to his goals of becoming a more prestigious stylist.

What a motivating, captivating, inspirational, sincere, funny man!! I certainly left his seminar a much better person! He gives one the desire to be kind, always, to everyone. There were many sub-themes throughout his speech, but the core of his message was being nice. Alot of what he talked about had to do with our professional lives, particularly in the hair/fashion industry, but certainly can and should apply in all the areas of our lives.

I took 4 pages of notes (in my darling new note book, lol!) and really have tried to apply things I learned. I especially liked his "Code of Conduct"...

1. Be on time. Always.
2. Always be in a great mood. (Fake it when necessary)
3. Come to work prepared.
4. Be informed. (Read all memos and information)
5. Gossip is not allowed.
6. Hold each other accountable.
7. Resolve all personal challenges with love.
8. Go to the decision maker with any apparent unsolvable challenges. Use the "Go in Asking" rule.
9. Be knowledgeable, literate and articulate.
10. Always "look the part" of an impeccable professional.
11. Be professional always.
12. Do not get personally involved with clients.
13. Personal lives remain personal.

He taught that as important it is to be nice to others, it starts with how nice we are to ourselves. He told us to "fall madly in love with yourself." To love yourself enough to stay away from people, places, ideas and thoughts that are toxic. Which is hard, especially if those people are family or those places are where you work. And while you can't always stay away from those people, it is so important to love yourself so their negativity doesn't engage you. And to remember that gossip is a form of verbal violence. Ouch.

I heard and learned things I certainly needed to hear. I love Mr. Claybaugh's attitude and philosophies. One of the last things I have written down is his advice to find people who want to play with you! Love it!

I'm Sick

2009-09-12T00:04:00.001-07:00

Dear Aveda Tea,

I love you. You soothe my sore throat and calm my body aches. You and DayQuil/NyQuil and SmartWater are the trinity of my current love and need. Please don't ever leave me.

Your biggest fan,
Carly

September 11th

2009-09-11T22:26:00.000-07:00

Every summer growing up, my dad would take a group of Japanese students to Washington D.C., New York City and Princeton, New Jersey. Princeton being the "reason" for the trip and D.C. and NY were just bonuses. Princeton University has a Plasma Physics Laboratory that was the highlight for the Japanese group. I believe the majority of the group were aspiring scientists. I remember taking a tour of the facility and knowing that I would never be that smart! LOL! It was way over my head. I was there to take in the beautiful campus. Such a charming place!

My dad would take one or two of us every time he would go and the first time I went, my cousin came with us. I think we were going into the 9th grade. We were classic tourists. I'm sure we embodied every stereotype of an obnoxious tourist there is! Today I searched for the photos from that trip and found a few, but not the one I was looking for. I have some of us riding the Circle Line cruise to The Statue of Liberty with the skyline including the Twin Towers behind us. We went to the top/observation deck of The Towers and saw the view. I remember being scared up so high. (I have a fear of falling)

The next time I went to NYC with my dad, my sister Malory went, too. It was the summer before I went into the 11th grade. It was Malory's first time and I remember she almost got ran over! She just walked out into the street without waiting for the "walk" to appear. My dad pulled her back just.in.time. And he was not a happy camper with her. I think he felt bad he got so mad at her because he then took us for ice cream:) And New York in July calls for ice cream! I hate humidity!

I don't remember if we went to The Towers that trip or not. I do remember being so happy to be back in NYC and not so much of a tourist this time around. From this trip, I remember more about D.C. and visiting the museums and falling in love with all the history there. I came home obsessing about J. Edgar Hoover and Einstein.

My third trip to NYC happened in August 2001. I was there just a few weeks before the terrorist attacks. This time we went to the observation level of The Twin Towers. I remember it being late at night and thinking the city looked so romantic all lit up. Yet, I emphatically remember feeling a sense of fear, for the buildings were too close together. That night I said, "if something were to happen to one of these buildings, there would be a domino effect."

September 11, 2001, I was still living with my parents and my mom came in my room woke me up and turned on my TV. We sat on my bed and watched over and over all the footage. I was transfixed by the TV. I was in a state of shock and felt nothing the whole day. It wasn't until that night, trying to sleep that I was consumed with emotion. I sobbed. I felt so vulnerable. I felt deep empathy for those who lost their family members. I cried for all the children who would never see their mom or dad again. I imagined what it must have felt like for the wife who was never to kiss her husband again. I felt the horror and ugliness of what had happened that day.

My first time back to New York after 9/11/01 was in May 2005 a few months before we moved there. I was married by this time and it was my husband's first time there. Lucky for us, my brother was already living there, so we were able to visit NY not as tourists, but as travelers. I did, however, insist that Patrick and I visit Ground Zero. In my memory the Financial District looked like one thing and I wanted to see it now for what it had become. I was sick with emotion at the thought of the loss of life and love at that spot and we didn't stay long. To make it worse, a man was playing Amazing Grace on his flute and since my grandfather's funeral, that song undoubtedly brings tears to my eyes.

My husband and I moved to NYC in November of 2005 and fell in love with and cursed the city immediately. We didn't venture down to Ground Zero unless we had family or friends visiting that would want to see it. I would get so angry while we were there to see people trying to sell photos and memorabilia to the tourists for their own personal gain. I believe that besides from being immoral and insensitive that it is actually illegal. I could be wrong, however, I did into more than one argument with one of these "salesmen" that Patrick had to pull me away from.

As a NYC resident, I was always so curious to hear how that day unfolded for others. It not an easy subject to talk about with some... often they knew someone who lost their life or a loved one. Certainly it is a day any of us who were alive will ever forget. Where were you?

Each year on this date, I am reminded of how beautifully lucky and well-taken care of I am. I am surrounded by those I love. We have more than enough. And while the reasons for the attacks and conspiracy theories will be constant, we will always have this opportunity to remember how fragile life is and the importance of love. Always love. Only love.

Shelves

2009-09-09T22:20:00.000-07:00

I am in desperate need of some new bookcases. I have piles of books and even more in boxes that need to be put out to show off. I haven't been able to find what I want UNTIL THIS!!! I AM IN LOVE!! Who wants to build this for me? No, nevermind, I want to build this.

found on for me, for you

The Worlds Biggest Zit.

2009-09-09T20:34:00.001-07:00

Have you seen this yet? And you thought your zits were bad.

I think I am going to have nightmares.

Labor Day Weekend

2009-09-08T22:30:00.000-07:00

We stayed home this past holiday weekend with no big plans. It was nice. We did have a big BBQ on Monday with the world's best potato salad present. It is amazingly delicious. I'll have to post the recipe. There is a special ingredient in this recipe that I have never had in potato salad or would have ever thought to include. Check back later for that one:)

I started (and finished) a few projects that have been on my list of things to try...

This off-set square wrist pincushion came in handy as I worked on

this elephant. Isn't he cute!!

And I spent some quality time with these two babes.

This is Jayson's only cousin, Kailo. Kailo is the sweetest little guy. I get to babysit him once a week or so and I love it! He is so darling and adorable. He is 6 months old and learning how to crawl! Don't you love what his shirt says:) Lock up your daughters! For real because this guy is going to break some hearts! He was too interested in the camera so I couldn't get him to give me a smile with his dimples. He has the cutest dimples!

Bean Bags

2009-09-04T00:02:00.000-07:00

I got an idea for some bean bags from a blog I am loving. Ashley from Lil Blue Boo is a crazy-talented superlady! She makes some really adorable stuff!

I did not stencil & paint the letters on like she did (although she does give an excellent tutorial of how to do it here), I just drew letters on the fabric with a pencil and then cut them out and appliqued them to the bean bags before filling them up. Meet my friend Stitch Witchery, who helps me keep appliques in place while I sew them on.

Anyway, I started out making a set for Jayson, my nephew, and he loves them.

Patrick and I were invited to a birthday party for our friend's daughter and so I made a set for her.

Tatum's mom loved them so much, she had me make a set to give as a gift to a friend of hers. With Avia's set, I made a cute little bag to keep them in.

Love my labels:)

Grace and Hitchcock

2009-09-03T21:26:00.000-07:00

Once I finished reading Grace Kelly's biography, I was curious to see some of her movies she filmed before she was married.

We rented Dial M for Murder first. One of the 3 movies Grace Kelly and Alfred Hitchcock worked on together. Let me just say that my husband does not care for old movies (and musicals)... he was not too excited to watch it. I promised him that if it sucked we could turn it off. But we loved it! It was engaging, interesting, beautifully shot, and (somewhat) suspenseful. Patrick like it so much next time we went to the video store we rented To Catch a Thief, another Hitchcock show.

I didn't like the plot as much on this one as on the last, but I did love the setting, the coast of the South of France, and Grace Kelly's character's wardrobe! Her clothing was perfect and made her look so stunning! I appreciated that Grace was able to play such a dazzling woman. Yes, I totally have a girl-crush on her:)

We still want to catch Rear Window. Hope I love it just as much as the others.

Fish Bib

2009-09-02T20:08:00.000-07:00

I need to learn to crochet so I can make this.

Today on Today

2009-09-02T18:22:00.000-07:00

Did you happen to watch The Today Show this morning? I rarely watch it, but for some reason I put it on while I was eating my cereal. I realize that I was suppose to watch it for the segment they did on miscarriage. I suffered my third miscarriage back in February/March at 9 weeks. My first two miscarriages, I learned later, are known as chemical pregnancies. Chemical miscarriages are indeed a conception and is actually a very early miscarriage. So while those two don't really count (they are not on my medical record) my most recent one does count. The whole experience was a nightmare that still gets to me every once in a while.

What I heard today helped me process more of my feelings of anger and guilt. I know in my brain it's not my fault, but I feel differntly in my heart. I know that it is for the best that I lost the baby while still in my first trimester, but my baby still died. I still had to deliver him. I still held him. I still lost him. And I still love him.

One thing that really hit home for me was the response I would get from others. People would say to me, "you are lucky you weren't very far along" or "at least you can get pregnant" or "you can always adopt." (Note: I have absolutely nothing against adoption, but I'm just not there yet..) And while I know all these things, the fact is there is no comfort in these words. The dream of being a mother and experiencing pregnancy and delivering a baby get pulverized with each loss. It's a hard subject to talk about sometimes and maybe even a little taboo, but I think there needs to be more awareness so we can all help one another during such a difficult and heartwrenching time.

On a different note, I got some test results back from some hormone testing I had done with a Natural Doctor and found out my progesterone is crazy low. Duh. Progesterone is totally important for pregnancy. Why my OB never checked that is beyond me. Knowing this gives me much hope and I am excited to see the results from the treatment:)

NYC Skyline

2009-09-02T00:21:00.000-07:00

New York's skyline has got to be the world's most famous skyline. I miss it:( The views of the city are always incredible from all angles. Flying into LaGuardia, the view from Hoboken, NJ, the top of the Met or just about the top of any other building. (Nicole, remember the view from your balcony? Amazing.)

Came across this ring on Etsy today and am putting it on the top of my Christmas list:)

Good Reads Win

2009-09-01T18:08:00.001-07:00

If you are a reader and haven't signed up for Good Reads, stop reading this and go here now. Besides, you can enter to win all kinds of books like I did and win one. Like I did.

I shall be receiving a copy of The Lost Child: A Mother's Story shortly and have mixed emotions about it. This review from The New York Times Books makes me wonder if I will like it.

Wasting Time

2009-08-31T06:15:00.001-07:00

In case you run out of things to amuse yourself with, please check out the following. They are hilarious.

Postcards From Yo Mamma

My Very Worst Date

My Favorite and My Best

Awkward Family Photos

Texts from Last Night

You are welcome.

A Handwritten Note (+Cute Bag)

2009-08-31T03:01:00.000-07:00

I am that person that loves to receive letters, postcards, packages and such in the mail. Especially when it comes as a surprise. I like to send them out, too. I recently received a thank you note for a package I had sent to a friend who has been dealing with some serious stress in her life. It made me feel good to know that 1. my package made it to her safely (the USPS is not always the most reliable and trustworthy source for delivery. Most of my problems of expectant letters/packages that have mysteriously been "lost" have happened with the USPS, particularly in NYC.) and 2. I know that she knows that she has been in my thoughts and prayers lately and that she is a kind and special lady.

I just came across this book The Art of the Handwritten Note on Kate's Paperie (such a glorious and drool-worthy site) and I could completely relate to what the opening paragraph says...

"Writing by hand makes you look good on paper and feel good inside. Even an ordinary handwritten note is better than the best email, and a good handwritten note on the right occasion is a work of art. It says to the reader, 'You matter to me, I thought of you, I took the trouble on your behalf, here's who I am, I have been thinking of you in the days since this was mailed, I want to share with you the textures and colors and images that I like.' And that's just the unspoken messages..."

Awe. So now it's time to restock the cards and stationary:)

This purse was the surprise I sent up to my friend. I used the (free) buttercup bag pattern from Made by Rae and just enlarged it a bit. I found the original pattern to be make quite a small bag. More like a clutch. I added a zipper and one of my new labels. Yeah:) I love them!

*When I hung up our wedding photos I totally mis-measured and have a random nail between two of the pics that I don't want to pull out for fear that the empty hole will look worse than the nail. And I kinda don't care, but am happy it made for a good place to hang the purse for a photo op.

New From Sephora

2009-08-26T11:59:00.000-07:00

Twilight Venom. And I quote... "A shimmering, crimson lip stain suspended in a venom-laced liquid lip conditioner. Twilight Venom should be shaken before use (to represent the blending of the human and vampire worlds). With a customizable ruby stain that captures the blood red lips sported by fashionable vampires, Twilight Venom can let you play the part!"

Awesome.

This and That from Japan

2009-08-25T23:44:00.000-07:00

My blogging buddy over at Lil Blue Boo is doing a giveaway for the most darling fabrics from This and That from Japan etsy shop.

It was love at first sight. Naturally.

The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind

2009-08-24T15:06:00.000-07:00

I recieved an email today from the online marketing director of Harper Collins asking if I would like to review a new book out September 29th. I'm sorry, did he say "read a new book that isn't even out yet, for free?" Yes, please. Here is some info on The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind from William Kamkwamba's website...

"William Kamkwamba was born in Malawi, Africa, a country plagued by AIDS and poverty. Like most people in his village, his family subsisted on the meager crops they could grow, living without the luxuries—consider necessities in the West—of electricity or running water. Already living on the edge, the situation became dire when, in 2002, Malawi experienced the worst famine in 50 years. Struggling to survive, 14-year-old William was forced to drop out of school because his family could not afford the $80-a-year tuition.

Though he was not in a classroom, William continued to think, learn—and dream. Armed with curiosity, determination, and a library book he discovered in a nearby library, he embarked on a daring plan—to build a windmill that could bring his family the electricity only two percent of Malawians could afford. Using scrap metal, tractor parts, and blue-gum trees, William forged a crude yet working windmill, an unlikely hand-built contraption that would successfully power four light bulbs and two radios in his family’s compound. Soon, news of his invention spread, attracting interest and offers of help from around the world. Not only did William return to school but he and was offered the opportunity to visit wind farms in the United States, much like the ones he hopes to build across Africa.

A moving tale of one boy’s struggle to create a better life, The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind is William’s amazing story—a journey that offers hope for the lives of other Africans—and the whole world, irrefutably demonstrating that one individual can make a difference."

The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind has already won ringing praise from former Vice President and Nobel Laureate Al Gore as well as Paolo Coelho, internationally bestselling author of The Alchemist. And is being compared to Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson, both of which I have read and loved.

I love books on real-life heros and philanthropists. I am humbled and driven to do my part to help those less fortunate than I. I'll let you know how the book is when I'm done:)

Il Grande Prato

2009-08-23T17:07:00.000-07:00

Today for Sunday dinner, my baby sister brought two new friends over for dinner. They are both exchange students spending a year in America. One was from Norway and one from Italy. Nicco, the student from Italy comes from a town in Tuscany and get this...! His parents own a beautiful B&B where he lives and grew up. Il Grande Prato is the name of their home. Go right now to their website and see all the gorgeous pictures.

This place has got to be too beautiful to be real! It would be like living in a dream. They have olive trees where they make a small quantity of olive oils and a small vineyard for wines. My, oh my!! I told Nicco to hook me up with some olive oil from their olives:)

I am determined to go! The rates are really decent...like $55 for the night and breakfast.

Book-Cut Sculpture

2009-08-22T23:57:00.000-07:00

I came across Su Blackwell's sculptures (via handmade charlotte and curled up with a book) and was in awe! I love what she does with the old books she finds in second hand stores. This interview tells how one scultpure can take her two months! Miss Blackwell finds inspiration for each model from the book title or a paragraph or picture inside. She only uses the pages she delicately cuts or removes from the book itself. The models look as if they 'grow' naturally from the spine and pages of the book.

Wow and wow. I am impressed.

Now, if I only had a couple grand hanging around....

Nice Interruptions

2009-08-18T21:34:00.000-07:00

This is what happens when I try to blog and Jayson sees my Mac out. It is his favorite toy. And let's just say that this soon-to-be 18 month old is not exactly gentle with things. But I adore him anyway!

Amy Butler Bag

2009-08-18T20:42:00.001-07:00

I gave a sewing lesson last week to a friends 12 year-old daughter. She had never really sewn before, but she picked it up like a champ! We made Amy Butler's Birdie Sling bag over two days. In all, it took us about 6 hours give or take. I thought that was pretty good after reading reviews (here and here and here) that said that bag takes 10 hours! I took the pattern home the first night and made a bag in about 3 hours. However, I used mid-weight fabric (denim for the main panel and a home decor fabric for the handle) and did not interface it, so it didn't take me as long. I used fabric that I already had on hand, so my bag cost me nada! Yeah for free! My mom called dibs on the bag, but I think one of my sisters stole it for her diaper bag!

Here is a pic of the little lady's bag. Not a great pic (it was taken with a camera phone) but the colors were too cute!

This is my bag.

Up-close and person with the pleats.

For the lining, I used a darling Hawaiian print that I have been "saving" for that special project. I love this print!

It was so fun to hang out with the little lady and share my passion for sewing. And I love this bag! Can't wait to make more:)

Little Man

2009-08-16T19:49:00.000-07:00

This guy is too cute for words!!! Seriously, why is he not in BabyGap ads?

Dresses

2009-08-16T19:34:00.001-07:00

Finally. Here are a few pictures of some of the dresses I recently made and sold.

Black & White Apron Dress, size 2T

Primary Colors Apron Dress, size 2T

Japanese Pink Ruffle Dress, size 2T. I found this fabric in my mom's stash of Japanese fabrics. I love this fabric...it has a little stretch to it.

These last two dresses were made for sisters. Pink Apron Dress, size 2T. Brown Apron Dress, size 6.

I sell these custom dresses for $25-$30 depending on the size. Email me if you have any questions or would like to order carlykillpack{at}gmail.com.

Prisoner

2009-08-14T07:32:00.000-07:00

This made me giggle this morning:)

Sunshine Kisses

2009-08-13T09:53:00.000-07:00

(see flickr for more photos)

No, not freckles. I have plenty of those:) After reading this post on Boston Mamas about drying your clothes outside, I decided to give it a try.

When I was little, my mom always used our old clothesline that was out by the trees. I remember "helping" her by hiding behind the towels:) I know my mom loved using that clothesline and now I can understand why. Yesterday I used my drying rack outside. I didn't go out in the middle of the day, too hot...I waited until the day started to think about cooling off. When I gathered the clothes, the sun had set and the crickets were starting to chirp. It was just me, feeling content with being domestic:) I find so much satisfaction in cleaning, cooking, laundry...is that weird? Do you? But really, folding my fresh laundry outside was very relaxing. I didn't have the nagging worries that usually occupy my thoughts. Instead, I let my mind wander...don't ask me where it went, I don't remember. But I know I came inside more calm than when I went out.

Give it a try. Besides, it's better for the environment.

On another note, while searching for an image of clotheslines, I came across Simple Sparrow. While I don't know much about photography, I know what touches me and her work certainly did. Unfortunately (for me) Simple Sparrow is being closed, but Toni, the author will soon be starting a new blog about her family's adventures in Germany when they move in a few weeks. I will most certainly be following...

The Lost Recipe for Happiness

2009-08-11T00:09:00.000-07:00

I finished this book the other day...I couldn't put it down! I'm pretty sure Barbara O'Neal wrote it with me in mind. She knew I would devour the book and want to reread it as soon as it was finished. There was the whole cooking/food part and a lovely, steamy romance:) This is one not to miss.

I don't know if it is from all my experience working in restaurants, but I totally 'got' this book. The sights, sounds, smells of the kitchen, the pressure to please mixed with all the personalities and egos of the staff. I do miss the energy and pace of a busy restaurant, but certainly not the hours:)

I also loved the O'Neal added several recipes in the book. I am going to try this one tomorrow...

Abuela Maria Elena's Posole

2 cups dried posole (dried whole hominy)
2-3 lbs. boneless pork shoulder
3 cloves garlic, sliced thin
1 onion, chopped
1/2 cup mild fresh green chiles, resevring a handful of thin strips for garnish
1-2 peeled, seeded, chopped tomatoes (about 1 cup)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
salt to taste

Rinse posole in cold water until water runs clear. Soak over night.

To cook pork, put it in a heavy pan on the stove with a little water, salt and pepper, and let it cook real slow until it's falling to pieces, about 2-3 hours. Remove the pork, leaving the fat in the pan, add the posole and enough water to cover it all, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, till posole pops, about 1 hour. Meanwhile roast the chile peppers (if fresh) in a paper bag in a 400-degree oven for about 10 minutes, remove, cool, peel (skin slips off easily), and chop. Add the chiles to the pot after the posole has popped. Simmer, covered 4 more hours. Taste for seasoning, add salt to taste. Simmer, covered, 1 more hour. Garnish with cilantro and thin coils of pepper and finely chopped tomatoes.

Sounds a incredible, right!? A little time-consuming, but worth it! I am a total sucker for hominy! I love the texture of it! If you concure, go to armelle right now to get the recipe for this soup. It might be the very best soup I have ever eaten. OK, probably not THE best, but certainly in the top 5.

I'm making some of Alana's fresh salsa, too. Her recipe is to die for! She gave me the recipe almost a decade ago and it will impress! Everybody loves it! I'll let you know how it goes:)

They are Here!!!

2009-08-08T19:07:00.001-07:00

My calling cards came in the mail today! I am so excited! I have been sewing a bunch of stuff lately... and I haven't posted any pics of my stuff. Sorry. Coming soon, I promise! I Certainly need to! I have been selling some of my goods, so I ordered some labels to sew into my stuff as well as these cards. Yeah!

happygirlgreetings made my cards. She has beautiful ideas and creations! And she was a delight to work with:) And JennifersJewels made my labels. Also a delight to work with. I love supporting others on etsy! What a great site for all goods handmade!

I'll be posting more pics of all this fun stuff soon!

In Love....

2009-08-07T10:15:00.000-07:00

...with these curtains! I can't stop thinking about them! In fact, I love this whole room. alot.

Blog Giveaway

2009-08-05T17:17:00.000-07:00

The ALWAYS hilarious Mindi of Word to your Mother is doing a giveaway and so that I can have 2 entries, I am shouting it out!

I so want that little bag!!

Clutch Purses

2009-08-03T23:46:00.000-07:00

I love these clutch purses. And, naturally, I want to make one of my own. I have this (sometimes annoying) habit of not wanting to buy something that I think I can make myself. So, after a little research I found this site where you can buy the metal clutch purse frames.

JCrew

2009-08-03T13:34:00.000-07:00

I love all the pretty, new arrivals from JCrew.

Gardens....

2009-08-02T15:03:00.000-07:00

I wish I didn't live in the desert so that I could have a plentiful garden. Like a REAL garden like those you see in Better Homes and Gardens. I would grow so much yummy and beautiful stuff!

I just came across these adorable garden-related items! The spoon markers!!! Seriously!! Could there be anything cuter?!!!

Vintage Spoon Markers. I SO want these! My mom has a bunch of old spoons...wonder if she would borrow me a few:)

And I love this quote from Audrey Hepburn. So simple, true and hopeful!

Found via Going Home to Roost.

Documentaries

2009-07-30T22:25:00.000-07:00

Last time Pat and I went to rent a movie, we left with 2 documentaries. They were completely different and I loved them both.

The first one we watched was 10 Questions for the Dalai Lama. What an incredible, inspiring and humble man! The movie is about how the His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama became the leader of Tibet, his daily life in exile and his teachings of life, both spiritual and temporal. Just watch it to listen to him laugh! He has the most infectious laugh!

I didn't know that Buddhists consider the Dalai Lama to be the reincarnation of Buddha and that he is their spiritual and political leader. The narrator of the movie explained it as if in America, we believed the reincarnated being of Jesus Christ to be sitting in the White House. A comparision like that is hard for me to wrap my brain around. I learned so much about Tibet, the Dalai Lama and Buddhism from this movie. Go here to read more about it.

The other one we rented was Man on Wire. Here is the synopsis from IMDB...

"On August 7th 1974, a young Frenchman named Philippe Petit stepped out on a wire illegally rigged between New York's twin towers, then the worlds tallest buildings. After nearly an hour dancing on the wire, he was arrested, taken for psychological evaluation, and brought to jail before he was finally released. Following six and a half years of dreaming of the towers, Petit spent eight months in New York City planning the execution of the coup. Aided by a team of friends and accomplices, Petit was faced with numerous extraordinary challenges: he had to find a way to bypass the WTCs security; smuggle the heavy steel cable and rigging equipment into the towers; pass the wire between the two rooftops; anchor the wire and tension it to withstand the winds and the swaying of the buildings. The rigging was done by night in complete secrecy. At 7:15 AM, Philippe took his first step on the high wire 1,350 feet above the sidewalks of Manhattan James Marshs documentary brings Petits extraordinary adventure to life through the testimony of Philippe himself, and some of the co-conspirators who helped him create the unique and magnificent spectacle that became known as the artistic crime of the century."

What a NUT! Those buildings were so high!!! I was scared when I was on the observation floor and it was enclosed! Who walks between the two building on a wire!!?

I Won...Again

2009-07-30T09:52:00.000-07:00

Wow! I won another giveaway! Lucky me:) This one was a pillow from enhabiten via scoutie girl.

I requested the 'forgiven' pillow. I am totally drawn to the beauty of the simplicity as well as the reminder to always forgive. This will make an excellent throw pillow for the bed.

Viva Las Vegas

2009-07-29T20:34:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Patrick and I drove my sister Kate and a friend down to the airport for their trip to New York. Lucky girls. I was never able to go school clothes shopping in Manhattan when I was in high school!

Anyway, after we dropped them off and made sure they got through security ok (it was the first time either of them have flown without an adult. Good thing it was a direct flight and they are staying with my brother...) Patrick and I hit the Town Square Las Vegas mostly to check out the eleven spa that Ken Paves is a part of.

We were greeted by a very, very nice woman who offered to take us on a tour of the salon and spa. It was interesting to us that in a 20,000 square foot spa, we did not see a single client. hhhmmm.... While there were plenty of things about the salon that we liked (the hand treatment sink, the various wallpapers, the manicure bar) overall we disliked more. They used fake grass in the relaxation room and waiting room. Why? And I didn't care for the oversized white furniture and lack of color. The whole place just felt stiff...it was unsettling. Overall, not a fan.

Since neither of us had been to Lake Las Vegas, we decided to head out that way before going home. After a small detour (aka 'we got lost') we finally found it. That place is incredible!! It is absolutely gorgeous! It really is an oasis in the middle of the desert. I had no idea it was as big as it is. And there is a Ritz Carlton out there, too. Who knew. There wasn't much going on there...too hot. Although, Pat was salvating over the golf course! He kept commenting on how beautiful it was:) cute. There were some enormous and gorgeous homes there as well. I really want to stay there sometime!

Watermelons

2009-07-27T22:45:00.001-07:00

Seriously. Besides the fact that almost anything the Japanese do thrills me, this one just doesn't seem right. We were eating watermelon the other night and my dad started talking about square melons in Japan. Of course we didn't believe him, but alas, the internet proved us wrong. Dad 1, everyone else 0.

This website says...

"A fat, round watermelon can take up a lot of room in a refrigerator, and the usually round fruit often sits awkwardly on refrigerator shelves.

But clever Japanese farmers have solved this dilemma by forcing their watermelons to grow into a square shape. Farmers insert the melons into square, tempered glass cases while the fruit is still growing on the vine.

The square boxes are the exact dimensions of Japanese refrigerators, allowing full-grown watermelons to fit conveniently and precisely onto refrigerator shelves."

Yikes!

Tutorials

2009-07-24T13:55:00.000-07:00

I have found so, so many cute tutorials of things I want to make. I am starting to forget where I find them, so I am going to put them all on my blog for my own reference. All I can say is WOW! There are so many talented and creative people out in blogland!

The Market Skirt

The Gathered Pocket

Bobble Scarf/Shawl

Reading is Sexy

2009-07-22T20:54:00.000-07:00

The library causes me anxiety. I go in there and the place has wall-to-wall books. It's too overwhelming...how do I choose the perfect books to absorb myself in for the follwing 2 weeks. How to narrow it down... Without fail, 2 hours later, I leave with at least 7 books (after whitling that number down from 16).

In March/April-ish I made a new goal. I am going to try to read 100 books a year. Every year. Broken down, that is really only like 2 books a week. That is totally doable. So, I bought a "book journal" called Book Lust (which, I think, is a very clever name!) where I can keep track of all my reads. There is space for the title, author, date and thoughts on the read. The only thing that makes me mad is that I haven't been doing this my whole life!!

In the forward of the journal, it is suggested to give a book at least 50 pages before giving up on it. If, after 50 pages you can't get into it, don't finish it. I thought about that for like 3 days since I always feel obligation to finish a book once I start it. But, as with all goals, there needs to be a little wriggle room, so I decided I would adapt this idea. So far this year I have only given up on 2 reads...

The Poisonwood Bible

The Emperor's Children

Have you read either of these? I just can't get into them. Should I feel bad about that?

ANYWAY, I am reading the biography of Princess Grace Kelly. I find her life fascinating. Academy Award winning actress who gave it all up to marry a real-life prince! Although it certainly was no fairy tale. I think she is just lovely. And I totally have a crush on her and her style!

Craft Hope

2009-07-13T12:48:00.000-07:00

So while surfing blogs today, I came across a really fantastic one. Craft Hope is a blog that gives crafters a chance to use our talents to benefit those less fortunate. I love her mission... "Spreading seed of hope one stitch at a time."

There is a project right now that closes on July 25th that will be providing blankets, beanies and booties to new borns in India. I signed up. You should too! Just leave a comment on this post and she will email you the address of where to send your goods.

I WON ON DESIGN MOM!!!

2009-07-07T00:19:00.000-07:00

OH MY GOODNESS!!! Imagine my surprise when I checked my email today and saw that I won the Mayflower Giveaway on Design Mom! $150 bucks to Home Depot!!! Me! I won! Out of 1226 entries, this girl takes the cake!!

Yeah for free money!!! Thank you Design Mom, Mayflower and Home Depot!!

Fruit Shape Sticky Notes

2009-07-02T01:22:00.001-07:00

Ok Seriously! How adorable are these! I wouldn't dare use them. I would just want to look at them. The Japanese always have the coolest stuff!

From D-BROS, the Kudamemo fruit shaped sticky notes. You can buy them individually or in crates of six!

via MoCo Loco

Beach Hair

2009-07-01T23:46:00.000-07:00

I love the way my hair goes after spending the day at the beach. I try so vainly to recreate the look at home. I just found this new product that I am dying to try.

Sachajuan Ocean Mist from a Stockholm based product line. Kinda spendy but I would buy it once to try...

I've tried the Bumble & Bumble surf spray, but found that it takes at least half the bottle to achieve the look once. Not so great on the wallet.

But, lately my sister and I have been making our own. I originally found this recipe in Cosmo, but I like how Modern Girl Style explains it... Go and try it. You probably already have everything you need on hand! Instant beach-in-a-bottle!

And it especially makes me happy because Patrick is besties with the Creative Director of Frederic Fekkai Soho, Fabrice Gili's assistant Lindsay. And Fabrice is the creator of this recipe:)

British Invasion

2009-06-30T21:43:00.000-07:00

So, the BIL is coming home from his mission on Thursday!!! Can you believe it because I can not!! He has been serving in the Leeds, England mission. Patrick is so excited! He and his little bro and besties! It's borderline ridiculous how obnoxious they can be together.

Anyway, I almost fell off my chair when I saw this little fabric book on ex libris via diary of a quilter. A British words cloth book! Really, could there be anything more adorable!!?? This is very exciting! And, it can also be purchased on her etsy shop!

Dusty will most definately be getting one of these from me... eventually. (like when he has a kid)

The Time Traveler's Wife

2009-06-29T23:03:00.001-07:00

My friend Renee keeps telling me to read this book because I remind her of the girl. She has me curious now:) Better read it before the movie comes out in August.

And I can't decide who I have a bigger crush on... Rachel McAdams or Eric Bana...

The Hangover

2009-06-29T21:59:00.000-07:00

This movie is funny with a capital F!!! I laughed really, really, really, really hard! Probably I want to see it again.

Twig & Thistle

2009-06-29T15:19:00.000-07:00

Have I been under a rock? Why is it just now that I am introduced to this amazing blog? So many beautiful pictures and lovely things... Twig & Thistle

I love this idea for a clock. It is sweet and simple.

Then, go to Creature Comforts to download this darling stationary! There are more freebies and downloads here!

At Uncommon Goods there are these super-cute postcards that I would love to get!

Yeah for new-to-me sites! Go browse these sites and you will be in love, too!

Brida

2009-06-29T14:46:00.001-07:00

I don't know what Paulo Coelho was thinking when he wrote this book. It is terrible! Witches, time travel, reincarnation, soul mates...I just couldn't get into it.

I've loved the other books of his that I have read. You might have heard of a little book called The Alchemist... It's been a good 10 years since I've read it, but I remember liking it. And then there was The Devil and Miss Prym that was really good, too.

I am still really dissapointed in this latest book of his. I can't believe I actually finished it:(

I'm Bored...

2009-06-28T02:41:00.000-07:00

This summer is BoRinG! I want to be here again...

And, yes, I am sad that MJ died... but enough of his music already!

the end

Nicholas Sparks

2009-06-24T15:31:00.000-07:00

How does he do it? I am a total sap for his chick-lit. When I read The Notebook, I devoured it. I just finished two other books of his just this week. I couldn't put them down. Sad, I know. A Bend in the Road and Three Weeks with my Brother.