the daily ramen

Facebook Timeline

2012-01-28T16:49:00.007-05:00

So, the new timeline feature has you freaked out? No worries- a couple changes to your privacy settings should lock-down your timeline to be shared with your chosen few.

Here is what to do;

In the privacy settings, there is a "limit the audience for past posts" in the last section. If you change this to friends, it will universally change all of your past posts to be viewable by friends only (duh.)

THEN if you want to get more selective and knock out bosses, co-workers, snoopy great-aunts; go to "manage blocking" and edit the "restricted list" (first option). Once the window opens, you'll need to change the top-left drop down from "on this list" to "friends". Anyone you select here will be able to see Public Posts only (which shouldn't exist at this point). The goal being to hide your party days without being a jerk and un-friending before-mentioned people.

To be sure that you don't inadvertently share posts as public, you should be sure to change the default setting to friends.

If you're unsure how secure your profile is at this point, go to your profile, select the drop down options under the cover photo and select "view as..." This feature lets you view your profile as the public, a specific person, or friends see it.

Another thing to keep in mind... while you can't control what people post, you can review how they tag you.

And please, let me know if I'm misunderstanding any of this.

odds & ends from Paris

2012-01-27T18:04:00.003-05:00

Last post... a few more of my favorites... (notre dame, cafes, jardin des tuileries, etc.)

Eiffel Tower

2012-01-25T22:44:00.002-05:00

One of the my favorite memories in Paris happened one night just after dusk, while staring at the Eiffel tower from the Trocadero's steps. We were hungry and had started walking towards the Metro to go off in search of dinner when I heard a collective gasp from behind. We turned and the Eiffel Tower was sparkling! I'm a sucker for sparkles. Such a treat when I thought they only did it once a night at 10pm!

Palace of Versailles

2012-01-18T21:28:00.003-05:00

We had a beautiful day in Versailles.

Louvre, Paris

2012-01-10T12:36:00.003-05:00

Boy am I behind in posting this... gotta love the Christmas busyness! I had promised to share photos of our trip, so here is the first part!

We opted in on the Museum Pass for four days. This saved us a little money, and gave us added incentive to hit the major sites, as well as some smaller we probably wouldn't have gone to had they not been included (Archaeological Dig & Tower CLIMB at Notre Dame, Musee de l'Orangerie). We went to the Louvre twice, once during the day and again at night right before closing. It's an incredible museum- the architecture alone is worth a visit, then add in the history and art... I recommend the cafeteria at the Louvre for lunch, worth your money for a tasty lunch and break from the art!

Don't you love traveling alone as a couple? You get so many solo shots... ;)

Happy New Year!

2012-01-04T21:13:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year! We just got home from visiting Luke's family in NE Georgia. It's always a wild and crazy Christmas when the Clay family gets together... 30 of us total!

After a fun week with family, we headed back to the coast for a quick New Year's respite. The weather was gorgeous and we enjoyed ringing in the new year with friends in Corolla.

PS- look what we found!

home again

2011-11-29T07:02:00.002-05:00

We're back from Paris! I woke before the sun as Luke left for work. My body was saying it was noon and time for lunch, and I took advantage of being wide awake at dawn. It's a good thing since I have so much to catch up on. Of course I need to add stories and more pictures, but for now, I'll just share a couple of my favorite shots!

day one sans job

2011-10-24T20:16:00.005-04:00

yesterday was my first day out of work (by choice- don't want anyone thinking I was fired :). I spent the majority of it cleaning and catching up on laundry, but also enjoyed sleeping in a bit, enjoying a cup of coffee, reading blogs and yes watching a little desperate housewives. It felt good, but it still hasn't sunk in yet. I catch my thoughts wondering back to the office. I guess habits are hard to break.

any who, I mentioned I had a list of things I wanted to accomplish while not working. My first project is bread baking. I ordered "The Bread Bible" by Rose Levy Beranbaum. The plan is to bake my way through the book, and blog about one recipe a week as I go (I don't think my backside could handle anymore bread in the house...) I've always dreamed of owning a bakery/coffee house and while I seriously doubt I could handle the hours, I figured this was a good first step in finding what I love to do. It's supposed to be delivered today!

labor day

2011-10-09T13:57:00.002-04:00

Totally random moments from our 3 day weekend at the lake...

Maine Mushrooms

2011-10-08T17:00:00.001-04:00

Rainy Maine hikes... lots of Mushrooms.

Camping with the cousins

2011-10-06T17:00:00.001-04:00

Marshall Island

2011-10-04T17:00:00.000-04:00

One of my absolute favorite things about our trips to Maine is our trip to Marshall Island and our Lobster Feast! We all load up on the lobster boat, taxi over to the island, light a bonfire and wait.

The Otter Ponds Revisited

2011-10-03T20:53:00.003-04:00

Back to my Maine recap (albeit much later):

Remember this little hide-away? I first posted about it in 2009. It's been cleaned out since our last visit and is now on the market. One of the hunting cabins has fallen over since our last visit, a couple windows busted out, water damage to the wood floors. But on the up-side, a road has been cleared down to the cabins, and the view is absolutely phenomenal.

The clincher? If you buy it, you have to let me have an annual picnic.

Upcoming changes...

2011-10-02T10:05:00.003-04:00

Life has been a bit of a whirlwind in the last few weeks. Back on September 6th, I gave my notice that I'd be leaving my job. In hopes of not screwing my co-workers, I gave 6 weeks to provide an opportunity to train and transition while I was still there.

Three weeks later my boss has been fired, my department has been completely overhauled, and my co-worker whom all departmental responsibilities are left to is struggling with medical issues. It's not reassuring. I struggled with the responsibility of causing my boss's position "reduction." Thankfully she found a wonderful new job in 3 days! A non-corporate, less stressful job in a new industry which will save her sanity and bring her new happiness. Looking back, I sheepishly realize I NEVER should have questioned God's provisions. I admit I didn't spend time in prayer before taking this plunge. I spent time crunching numbers and analyzing our spending. Pinching and squeezing pennies and dimes to see if we can squeak by on one salary. Not the best way to make a decision but nonetheless how ours was made.

I realized that I wasn't growing or happy, and although I could shift focus all day long, I couldn't escape the pain and fear that is being experienced in the work place due to down-sizing and over-worked co-workers. I tend to be a sponge for stress. I don't help the situation or re-moralize others but instead mirror the frustration. Not beneficial or healthy- but true. Because of this, I know it is time for me to be removed from that environment so that I may be a blessing and not a curse to the people around me. I can bless my husband with being more pleasant to be around, my family with new energy and less snide comments, strangers with a smile I couldn't muster before. I already feel a change in my heart- like scales falling off. I haven't yet shook the tight muscles in my neck & back, but I trust that will come with time.

This said, I'm tremendously excited that I have 15 work days left. 3 weeks until I have a new life. It hit me all at once- to think I'm going to have 9 hours a day I've never been able to cash in... 45 a week... And all this energy that had been devoted to the company will be mine to divvy out however I choose.

Don't get me wrong; I wholly understand this isn't going to be a walk in the park. Half of this new found time will be devoted to keeping house in a way never before experienced by us. Complete, thought out meals, couponing, dusting, not running out of socks and boxers before laundry day... these are a few of the details to incorporate. Money is going to be tight. My pay wasn't our bread and butter, but the end crusts and jam. Comfort and immediate gratification will be a thing of the past. Hopefully the before-mentioned coupons will help, as well as a budget to limit frivolities.

I hope to fill in the rest of the days with life enhancements; daily devotions, working out, learning, starting new ventures... things I personally couldn't find the energy for after a 9-5. I've got a list of things to accomplish, which I'll save for later...

I'm not posting this to encourage others to follow me, to be irrational or rush into things. I'm merely taking a snapshot of my heart, so that in 3 months whether I'm happy or disappointed with our new life, I'll remember why I chose it and continue to be determined to seek better. To remember to live without regrets, with my head up and my heart open to new things.

Wharf Hill

2011-09-17T09:48:00.003-04:00

These were taken inside a very interesting home decor & antique store located in Smithfield VA. I adore their style, and would love to take these displays home with me...

seashells

sponges in wired basket

blue crab tea towells

Irene in the flesh

2011-08-28T18:09:00.002-04:00

"Storm of the Century"? I wouldn't go that far- Isabel made a much bigger impression. But Irene definitely made an impact. She rolled in early Saturday morning with some heavy winds, then made herself known around 9am. There's a couple trees near our house that were making us nervous, particularly a large pine in the front yard. Throughout the morning we kept watch.

Around 11:30, we heard a crack and BOOM. The power went out, no flickers, just out. Wide-eyed, looking at each other, it took about 2 seconds before we were off the couch looking out the bedroom windows. Branches peeked over the azaleas. We ran upstairs and looking down, realized the entire backyard was full of tree. Yes, a tree had fallen, taking the power lines off the house along with it. BUT the tree laid down without hitting the neighbor's garage, our garage, the house or the the other neighbor's hot tub. It is right down the middle of all. Such an answer to prayer.

I called the power company and they a report, but we're not holding our breath. At the end of the power line and with the wires ripped off the house, we're not a high priority when 3 mil are out of power in Va. My parents neighbor, a power co. retiree, said we're gonna be out of power 'til November, so I'm guessing 2 weeks at least... Luckily my parents are nearby and have an extra bed, so we're making camp here 'til we're up and running. And we are going to have a LOAD of oak firewood! Here's to looking on the bright side!

Irene

2011-08-26T20:54:00.004-04:00

Hampton Roads has been in a bit of panic this week with the "Storm of the Century" bearing down on us. I'm surprised by how many are evacuating, boarding up, closing shop...

Luke and I are spending tonight watching Lord of the Rings, waiting for the rains to roll in. I'm hoping the power stays on, but after a wind storm back in May knocked power out for 3 days, I'm not holding my breath! I'm not too worried, with friends in the neighborhood and family nearby to stay with if needed, we'll be just fine.

Looking at radar maps kinda blows my mind; It IS a rather big storm...

rain in maine

2011-08-24T22:16:00.003-04:00

Our first full day back on Swan's Island was rainy. We woke up and joined the joy clan at the church of God, had Ruthie's Freaking AAmazing lasagna (seriously, I'd think she was Italian if I didn't know better). Then joined Seth for some trekking around the island. Our first stop was the dump.

Seth took us to an abandoned cabin, then along the water line from the harbor, past the light house, along the newly blazed trail on the ocean side, and back to his truck. Dripping wet we took a quick ride up the road to check out a cave nearby. I waited at the mouth while the guys checked it out. Even on a chilly rainy day the island is enchanting, maybe more so. Mists and fog, fern and moss, tall evergreens and soft rushes. It was idyllic, primordial.

Bar Harbor to Swan's Island

2011-08-21T19:39:00.000-04:00

A couple weeks ago, we headed up to Maine. My husband's aunt, uncle, 10 cousins & their families live up on an island off the coast of Acadia, called Swan's Island. Luke has been going each summer since he was a little'un. Swan's Island has affectionately become part of his idea of home- the one constant place in a childhood full of moves. We flew with my parents, shaving 13+ hours off the trip if we had driven.

We arrived in Bar Harbor around 3 pm. We had planned to meet Luke's family in the harbor, but they had been delayed on the island. Mom and I walked up the hill to the shops: the scrimshaw store, country store, ice cream shop.

We brought back ice cream to the men- Black raspberry for Luke, mint chocolate chip for dad. Around 5 we saw Josh's boat, Atonement, pull in. We said our cheerful hellos and headed up the hill again, this time for dinner.

The ride back to Swan's Island on the lobster boat was chilly and damp. Mists rolled in and slowly the stars faded overhead. We sat watching the wakes and listening to the engines.

Paris: Flights & Lodging booked

2011-08-21T09:01:00.004-04:00

Last night we booked roundtrip flights to Paris for $665 (totally floored me when she gave us the cost- $400 less than the online price?!) Add in the $575 voucher from when they overbooked our flight home from Puerto Rico, and we only pay $90 each out of pocket!

We've been toying around with a return trip since we got home from the last in 2008. I am stoked, over the moon excited. Big thanks to StephModo for recommending AirBNB. We found a gem in Le Marais; A studio apartment for only $127 a night! So far Claire has been a dream to work with, and from reading her 50 reviews, it seems none can find anything bad to say about her.

SAILBOATS

2011-08-16T22:26:00.002-04:00

2011-07-22T23:01:00.003-04:00

I'm so sorry to those who read my blog... I've been using pinterest for keeping track of ideas/inspiration I find online and instagram for sharing photos from my iPhone! Feel free to follow me on either if you've got a hankering for intimate details ;)

I'm looking forward to a trip to Swan's Island next month and I'm sure I'll post about that when I return. It's really been rather ho-hum as far as new and exciting things around here. We did finish some big projects like the porch (big thanks to my parents) & garage (definitely recommend HML roofing!) so perhaps I'll share some pictures from that as well soon.

Hope you're all enjoying your summers!!!!!

veg fest

2011-07-07T20:36:00.002-04:00

After a wonderful weekend at the lake enjoying sun, family, and fourth of July food, we found ourselves craving healthier fare. Then, Checking out at the grocery store, I had a funny conversation with the woman behind me- she couldn't believe how many vegetables I had in the cart and was at a loss of what I was going to do with them! I offered to give her the printed recipes I had with me, but she was totally satisfied with her purchase of frozen meals. Her loss!

This weeks line-up was mostly found at fresh365.

Fresh baked salmon, steamed squash, and creamed avocado and lime chilled pasta. The fillet of salmon was a bit thick on Luke's serving at half in inch think in places, so he couldn't really taste the seasoning as well. But my piece was very good- the sweet bit of honey and the nuts really went well with the salmon. The avocado pasta was a bit bland, but ok for a side.

An asian inspired salad which we ate alongside Sushi takeout. I originally planned to serve with pot stickers, but couldn't find wonton wrappers at Farm Fresh! I've got an excellent recipe to try once I find some though.

Tonight's dinner was Tortilla Salad with chicken and cheese added. We've often made our own in the past, but this dressing was awesome!

So while the week has been full of salads, my belly's happy.

#5

2011-06-10T16:16:00.001-04:00

Five years into it and I gotta admit, he's still the bee's knees.

Powellsville NC

2011-05-29T14:58:00.004-04:00

Took a drive down to Bertie County for a Hoggard reunion of my great-great-grandparent's children's children. About a hundred or so family members, quite a few of which I'd never met. Detoured to my great Uncle's cabin... very neat. I almost asked if I could move in, but no indoor plumbing was a deal breaker.

so small

2011-04-30T16:26:00.003-04:00

Staring at the cranes and lifts at the shipyard as we crossed the four mile long James River Bridge, I remembered just how small we are in the scope of His creation. But yet we are his and he loves us.

creative lounge

2011-04-28T16:24:00.004-04:00

I hadn't made an effort until lately to sit down and create. Not that I'm an artist; but I do have the drive to create. As in I explode in a mess that sometimes turns out as I planned, or evolves into something unexpected and good, or just leaves me covered in paint saying, "well, at least it was interesting."

What was our 2nd guest room now has a workspace and my sewing machine. The walls are still pepto and have drywall showing through here and there where paint was ripped by the prior owners, but I'm ok with that! I'm free to nail and paste where ever I get the urge without worrying about damage. I've got to fill and paint anyways- might as well figure out where things go first! And when we do get around to painting (what color?!) I'll know where and how I want wall art. I was able to get the sweet panorama using the Photosynth app that Microsoft just released. All four walls splay out below- pretty crazy, huh?

Leaving La Florista

2011-04-19T16:43:00.004-04:00

There are more than five million people in Columbia forced from their homes and land due to Columbia's internal conflicts and the US war on drugs. A friend's company, Whisper Productions, has began working alongside Give Us Names to document the plight of the internally displaced of Columbia.

Whisper depends heavily on contributions to tell the stories of the oppressed, the voiceless, and the desolate. I'll leave the widget in the right column for anyone interested in donating to their cause. Please seriously consider donating; I can attest that the guys at Whisper are 100% committed to the project. I can't wait to see the final cut.

Orange Slices- Take one

2011-04-14T16:50:00.004-04:00

I am haunted by Cafe Grether in Badenweiler, Germany. Champagne truffles, candied orange slices, rich pies. I have been ruined for life.

I am however attempting to recreate the orange slices. My goal is to have a candied slice that is firm, sweet, and not sticky. Try one didn't go so hot. I think my first mistake was cooking limes and lemons along with the oranges- which brought a bitterness to the oranges. The recipe I used as a reference point said bring the oranges to a simmer (syrup was one part water/two parts sugar), cook until translucent, then set aside to cool on a rack. The lemons reached the point first, then the oranges, and the limes did not.

I also mimicked a recipe for crystallized ginger (which works with ginger!) I attempted to bring the oranges to the point where the liquid had cooked off and the sugars re-chrystalize on the fruit. The problem here was that the citrus fruits are so high in water content that even after draining most of the liquid off and adding sugar to what was left, the syrup reappeared! I did this twice before giving up and setting them on a rack to cool overnight.

The next day I gave them a try. Like i said, the oranges were bitter and just rinds were left, the lemons ok in flavor but soft and gooey, and the lime's peel hard as a rock.

I think part of my problem was adding too many slices at once- which left me turning more often, and thus destroyed the pulp of the oranges. Next time I'll keep it to one layer at a time. And I won't cook to the point of the liquid cooking off, I'll stop at the first hint of translucency and hopefully we'll have a slice instead of a rind ring.

Any advise would be appreciated!

Dinner & a Movie

2011-04-05T22:15:00.002-04:00

Tonight was spent enjoying a tasty meal with good friends. Grilled chicken marinated in soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey and dijon mustard. Brussels sprouts roasted and glazed in honey with parmesan (usually served with almonds.) Red lentil salad (recipe from Fresh365). Topher & Maria brought along amazing potstickers and brownies for dessert. Oh it was all so good!

Then we watched "Winter's Bone" which was incredibly dark and heart wrenching. The acting was phenomenal and the story line was one of the most unique and interesting I've seen lately. The downside? Topher said it well; you'll need a hot shower and pizza to pick you up afterwards...

Boy with a Coin

2011-04-03T22:24:00.000-04:00

Iron and Wine will be at The National in Richmond April 27th, $25

Look Out the Window

2011-04-03T17:33:00.003-04:00

Of the four ladies who went Saturday, we spent a combined fifty cents! I was the big spender with a book purchase. While the story line is "eh," the illustrations grabbed my attention. I'll share...

Look Out the Window by Joan Walsh Anglund

Sigh

2011-04-01T16:56:00.004-04:00

I nearly had a panic attack this afternoon when I second-guessed whether it was Friday or not (Luckily it is.) The sun is peeking out off and on, and I'm pretty sure a dose of Nyquil KO'd my cold last night.

Tomorrow, the plan is to head into P-town with the gals and check out a spiffy little market in the parking garage downtown. Fingers are crossed that we find something awesome. If not, the company + bagels and coffee will be enough to make the trek worth it. Then we will help some friends move out to a farm, then dinner with some other friends. Busy but exciting for sure.

I have no pictures to share since I haven't done much other than sniffle and sleep this week. Maybe tomorrow...

Oh, last year my prank was poking holes in the cups at the water cooler... This year I nearly fell for an email stating my office closed at noon! Any good April fools jokes today?

Peek in the garden

2011-03-29T18:50:00.004-04:00

Spent the weekend before last working in the flower beds, placing mulch and planting a few flowers. The garden beside the patio looks much better. A slate stepping stone path leads to the patio, which runs the length of the house and is bricked in herringbone fashion. It's a shady spot with a tall oak growing high over and a holly bush, tulip tree, and camilla bushes which provide us ample privacy. Once we get the screen fixed and the weather stays warm, I have a feeling we'll spend quite a bit more time out there.

homemade pasta sauce

2011-03-22T12:33:00.002-04:00

We got a load of tomatoes from work, so I decided to make homemade pasta sauce. Cooked 2 cloves of garlic and 1/2 a white onion in butter, about 4 roma's and 8 or so cherry tomatoes, plus good tablespoonfuls of dried basil, thyme, oregano, salt and simmered for an hour or so. Stirred in about a quarter of a cup ricotta cheese and topped with Parmesan & cracked pepper.

It smelled amazing as it cooked, but the flavor wasn't punchy enough. I'm going to see how it tastes tomorrow. Next time I'll be pro-active about finding a tried and true italian pasta sauce recipe to start with. I'm just not a recipe person... Any suggestions? Any Italian g-mas out there?

I still have a good bag full of Romas and the cherry's pictured below. Homemade salsa is still on the list- One of my favorites!

Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa

2011-03-20T20:55:00.003-04:00

Last night I tried recreating fish tacos Luke had in California. He'd gotten fish tacos at a market, and came home raving. I of course didn't take pictures- but here's the run down of ingredients...

Salsa- Mango, 1/2 Lime's juice, bunch of cilantro, Jalapeno, red onion
Sauce- Sour Cream, Chili Powder, Cumin, lime juice, salt

We used corn tortillas and left over fried fish from an amazing fish place downtown.

They were so good! I'll definitely be having them again.

Nature @ Chippokes Plantation

2011-03-16T20:16:00.003-04:00

Butterflies

Yponomeutidae

Turkey Feathers

Critter skulls

All photographed inside the visitor's center at Chippokes Plantation State Park

River Walk

2011-03-15T21:14:00.003-04:00

Sleepy Hole Park, photos courtesy of Luke

Chippokes Plantation State Park

2011-03-14T19:21:00.004-04:00

I love this place, and enjoyed sharing it with family today...

beach day

2011-03-14T12:08:00.002-04:00

I must say, these are some crazy kids! Swimming at the beach in March... brr...

2011-03-12T08:36:00.002-05:00

Family arrived last night. Looking toward checking out Colonial Williamsburg or the ocean front. Either/or, the weather is supposed to be phenomenal. I think I'll get dressed and explore the flower beds for new buds....

French Eclectic

2011-03-10T19:12:00.002-05:00

Hattie over at The little Red Roost posted a neat decor quiz on Sproost... thought I'd share my results which were very spot on.

French Eclectic

Parlez-vous français? Even if the answer is no, you can confidently say your home does! French Country, like its name, somehow manages to both be formal and casual, classy and unassuming at the same time. You like your spaces to feel inviting from the moment you (or your guest) opens the front door and this feeling should continue even after you've entered your most formal room. Even though there are French antiques here and gold details there, the rustic elements provide a balance and warmth that seems to say, "come in, relax and stay a while." Your love of antiques leads you to flea markets, garage sales and hours of eBay hunting.

March gusto

2011-03-10T18:48:00.006-05:00

After such a rainy windy day, a bowl of asparagus soup and garlic toast tasted amazing. Now we're watching MICMAC, which is by the same guy who did Amelie.

It's been a slow week, and I'm looking forward to our family coming in town Friday. The house will be busy, five kids running amok. I'll be taking two half days - cannot wait!

Lent

2011-03-09T18:33:00.003-05:00

I give up candy and facebook stalking.

Silly, that I specifically am avoiding the facebook feed? No, I find myself opening up the facebook page without even realizing what I've done. That is sad. I have no problem with using the phone to respond to messages and what not, because I can avoid the newsfeed... but oh the wasted hours perusing pictures and comments and gossip. It's depressing really... Tonight I've opened facebook twice without thinking. As soon as it loads I shut it down but still! That shows how habitual it has become for me!

So that is why I have decided to give up specifically the facebook feed.

Candy was just tacked on because I want to lose weight and need a reason to not eat it at work ;)

Bringing home Honey

2011-03-09T18:28:00.001-05:00

Centerpieces & Hydrangeas

2011-02-28T23:55:00.003-05:00

Still haven't figured out how to blog on the iphone, but uploading to flickr throughout the day has sped the process up tremendously...

I forgot to take photos of the centerpieces in all the hoopla of Saturday's banquet, but here is a shot of the flowers I brought home... It sure was nice to be creative in my job for once!

playing florist

2011-02-25T23:05:00.004-05:00

Went by the wholesale florist downtown to pick up flowers for our employee meeting tomorrow night... couldn't help but buy some for myself as well... adore ranunculus

It's great but...

2011-02-21T23:17:00.002-05:00

Remember how I said the ceiling would be done today...? Well, the contractor decided the plaster had been put up shoddy, and had it redone this afternoon.... The funny thing is, the man doing it decided (without asking us) to in his words, "give us his Sunday Best" which was a fan finish. I'm sure it was pretty and probably takes quite a bit of extra effort, however not what we wanted. Doesn't that make you feel awful? I felt pretty bad when Luke told me... But all we wanted was the ceiling to match the rest of the house.

Sorry Mr. Plaster man... your work looks good even if it is plain!

daffodils

2011-02-20T18:27:00.001-05:00

side note of the day

2011-02-19T22:46:00.003-05:00

ceiling will be fixed Monday! Plaster and insulation is already done...

Got to see this pretty little face tonight...

and a bit of this for breakfast...

overall a good day.

first bit of spring sun

2011-02-19T09:38:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was beautiful. The kind of day that takes any bit of stress or frustration and vaporizes it. Smithereens. so intoxicating: i'm still floating.

I'm enjoying the iphone. Lots of shots are being uploaded to Flickr as the day passes... and I'm shooting a bit of video here and there, but nothing to write home about yet

This was the sun through dewy windows this morning. I think today will rival yesterday...

New phone

2011-02-13T17:11:00.004-05:00

I finally parted ways with my old omnia touch screen. Bought an iPhone and the difference feels like this

Soufrière, St. Lucia

2011-02-02T22:32:00.001-05:00

I had my heart set on Soufrière. While researching, I had read there was bit of French flare lingering from having been the french capital, and that we would find tropical paradise: the Pitons, botanical gardens, waterfalls, black sand beaches, rain forests...

We booked a tour through the cruise line hoping to avoid a repeat of Barbados. South we went in our air conditioned tour bus, stopping at vantage points, hopping out to take pictures, then piling back in.

We stopped in the small fishing village of Anse La Raye. The tour guide warned us not to leave the street we were on because of drugs, robbers, lewd women, but we walked along the beach and found pockets full of sea glass.

Soon after we got back in the van, the bus pulled over again and our tour guide hopped off, saying she'd just be a minute. Assuming she was attending to personal business, we were happily surprised when she returned with gifts: warm buttered crusty bread. Definitely added a star to my trip since finding a tasty bakery was on my to-dos list (refer to the french culture bit).

We passed several places where landslides had taken lives. Whole mountain sides were bare, and crosses were affixed in the dirt where homes had stood. I'm not sure which hurricane caused it, but the effects are definitely being felt in their community still.

In Soufrière we visited the Diamond Falls botanical gardens, felt the mineral springs water, experienced rain in the (rain) forest, had a local Creole lunch at The Mill, and then boarded a catamaran to travel north back to Castries.

The boat's captain stopped by a cave where we could hear bats, then a black sand beach where we swam a bit before heading back. This was the busiest we were, but I thoroughly enjoyed it.

how to not flood your house

2011-01-30T23:06:00.005-05:00

Most of you are either a. smart or b. have hindsight enough to ensure that your washer's drainage hose is secured. We on the other hand, were not. After having our washer and dryer installed, I ran the machine through a regular wash cycle (you know that excitement from a new appliance that makes chores fun?). While I was out getting dinner, the hose came loose, spewing a few gallons of water into my laundry room, which ran under the wall, into the attic, and down into our bedroom below via the light fixture and a crack in the ceiling. Thankfully Luke had stayed home and heard the running water and was able to intervene before the rinse cycle.

48 hours later, post-emergency cleanup:

We now have the hose secured with wire into the drain so this cannot happen again... They're coming Monday to pick up the dehumidifiers and then repair the ceiling. On the brightside (I'm getting good at seeing the bright side), we're getting a new light in the bedroom and fresh insulation.

frustrations

2011-01-28T19:59:00.005-05:00

I was going to write about the island of St. Lucia and our explorations, which are worth sharing, but I'm listening to the plink plink of water drip from the light fixture in my bedroom. It kind of ruins the mood of recollecting on my vacay.

The good news is I have a new washer and dryer. The bad news is it wasn't hooked up to expel the water properly. ah, what a horrible month. I'm ready for a new one.

Oh yeah, our heater is working again. 69 degrees. it's awesome.

bridgetown, barbados

2011-01-25T21:21:00.003-05:00

#1 memory of Barbados; the smell of molasses.

After a day at sea traveling south, we woke up in the port of bridgetown, barbados. Breakfast was served in bed, and then we slowly made our way down to disembark. There was a large building with souvenir stores that opened to a sea of cab drivers there to convince us to take a tour of the island. We were at a loss. I hadn't found much in barbados that I had wanted to do, and so we grabbed a taxi into town. Again, more cab drivers.

We walked down Broad Street, popped in a couple stores, crossed over a canal, walked through a locals market area/bus stop, and then made our way back to the cruise ship.

a bit tickled

2011-01-23T22:41:00.002-05:00

well, I must commend Ch*ar*ter for their PR.... they're quick to respond to a negative post by little ol' me. And while I am a bit amazed at their response time to my post, I'm a tad creeped out that they choose this venue to try and correct the error. Crazy. (in case you're wondering about the asterisks, I'm afraid they'll find my slander and comment again)

prep for the cruise.

2011-01-23T21:28:00.007-05:00

Preparing for our cruise, I focused on two things- sights & eats. I didn't know much of our destinations, and relied heavily on tripadvisor, a review driven travel site that I've used since our Europe trip.

I found that every island had three things: an old sugar plantation, a fort, and a distillery. And while I had wanted to visit at least one of each, we found our days in port to be over too quick. tack on 5 additional opinions and you find yourself standing on a street corner discussing what to do next. On day 3, I successfully suggested a tour of St. Lucia, which covered the top three to-dos for me, so I was a satisfied tourist...

If anyone knows of a site that reviews cruises/ports, please do share! While I don't think I'll be going on another cruise (not my travel preference) I feel that I would have gotten more out of ours if I'd had insight on the to-dos and to don'ts.

Additional links to be added as I post island specifics...

January in a nutshell...

2011-01-22T10:11:00.005-05:00

My excuse for no posts? no internet from January 2 til January 19th courtesy of Mr. Squirrel chewing through wires and the ~~dimwits~~ slightly mistaken employees at Charter Communications who repeatedly blamed network outages. lack of internet plus having a furnace on the fritz (think Christmas Story) equals a very frustrated household. My apologies to all those whose bums ache from the edge of their seat... hehe...

On a brighter, sunnier note; we just got home from a vacation in the caribbean Monday!! We soaked up the sun like it was going out of style and ate enough for a small horse, but that's what you do on cruises, right? It was our first, and we went with the flow. Aside from a couple hiccups (cough #US Airways), it was a great time. In port, we saw the Pitons in St Lucia, braved Bridgetown Barbados cab drivers, enjoyed an amazing ginger beer at the Hemingway bar in Antigua, snorkled/collected sea glass in St. Croix, shopped St Maarten...

resort beach, Antigua

the Pitons, St. Lucia

view at Hotel on the Cay, Christiansted, St. Croix

More details coming...

Snow Day

2010-12-26T17:27:00.002-05:00

We had a quiet Christmas with my parents; spent the day watching Christmas movies and hanging out by the fire. I really liked my gifts- a new pair of boots, essential oils (to try my hand at perfume making- send suggestions!) and a new wide angle lens. I gave Luke a pair of LL Bean slippers, and the Zelda game through gamefly (it's like netflix for games). I was really excited when I found gamefly, because I knew if I bought him the game, he would spend a day or two playing until he beat it, then never play again. This way he gets to play, and I only spent $6! If you are interested, you can try it free for a month using this link.

We were really bummed that we didn't get to see Luke's family in Georgia, however in exchange we have had a very relaxing Christmas weekend.

I have to say, rarely do we have a good snow around here. Currently, we're at around 10 inches...? We weren't expecting a blizzard ;) Luckily, I had all the necessities, and we had the forethought to bring a wheelbarrow of wood up by the house to keep covered. The fire's been burning since around noon... We've had baked eggs for breakfast, tortellini soup, and we're about to eat cornish hen with an orange bourbon marinade. I'm rather hungry to say the least, so while I probably won't be taking any pictures, I'll let you know how it turns out.

How is your Christmas weekend going? Has it extended into a 4-day break?

Winter wonderland surprise

2010-12-14T20:46:00.002-05:00

Snowed most of yesterday. I love when it takes us by surprise- no anticipation, no crazed grocery stores, no manic weatherman. Just a calm, quiet morning and the delight of a fresh blanket of snow.

On another note, I've really been having a blast using Ebates to score cash while Christmas shopping. I'm up to about $20 in rebates! I first heard about the site on Freebies4mom.com and I'm completely hooked!

color palette

2010-11-17T17:15:00.001-05:00

loving this: http://fromme-toyou.tumblr.com

goodbye friend

2010-11-01T20:48:00.003-04:00

i am so thankful that sad days are far and few between. But it's sadness that contrasts the happiness, and today was one of the days that happiness was the memory that shaped my outlook.

It's hard to say goodbye without tears. For the most part I've done ok. Until I sat down and started remembering. But it's ok...

He made up for his quirks in loyalty and love. I'll miss his little head peeking over pillows, his prancing, hide and seek, and how he was always there when you needed a good cry. I could use that right now.

sigh

2010-10-17T22:26:00.004-04:00

been busy this week with delaney and friends. to make up for my absence, please enjoy.

Living Incredibly

2010-09-29T08:31:00.001-04:00

Have you heard about the Ryders? Theirs is a story of Hope. Humanity. Faith. Love.

Her blog delves into life with cancer. Real life, with it's ups and downs. She's open about her pain, her challenges, her frustrations, but she also praises the beauty of her situation, the renewal brought to her marriage, the strength found in her family, the love shown by strangers, and the innocence of her daughter.

"Don't Waste Your Cancer" written by Libby Ryder

sandy monarch

2010-09-28T17:20:00.000-04:00

"new" shoes

2010-09-27T19:01:00.002-04:00

Cappagallo

Scott Delaney's blog

2010-09-24T11:54:00.002-04:00

To amend my first post about the Delaney's travels, I have to add that there is now a second blog that is much more in depth on the dynamics and reasoning behind their setting out. Please read on here for more.

Thanks guys!

July 4th 2010

2010-09-22T22:30:00.004-04:00

You know those gaps all summer where I didn't post? Well, here's my attempt to fill them in a bit ;)

We took a whirlwind trip to Luke's parents home for fourth of July. My dad, who's got his pilots license, flew us down cutting travel time by over half. We spent the weekend with Luke's family, and then my mom and dad came down to pick us up and stayed for dinner. Of course, all of our nieces and nephews were excited to see the plane, and even had the opportunity to go for a ride! Look at these faces....

Living Incredibly

2010-09-20T22:39:00.004-04:00

Lately I've been finding myself following blogs about personal journeys. Over the next couple of weeks I'll be sharing these blogs, and hopefully you guys can share with me your inspiring reads.

My first recommendation? The story of 5 self appointed vagabonds being written at Organic Emery

Our dear friends Scott & Kharissa Delaney have taken to the highway along with their son, Emery, and two friends. Their journey is going to lead them around the Eastern US through the next six months, with the Western US leg commencing sometime next year. To start reading from day one, begin here. (9/24: found out there is a second wordier blog that will be updated weekly. "ThingsThingsThings") What is so inspiring about these people? They desire above anything else to experience God's creation through simple living. They invest in others, develop relationships, and live more fully then most. Albeit in a much more localized setting, they inspire me to get off my rear and do the same.

blue and yellow

2010-09-20T20:15:00.000-04:00

honey

2010-09-10T16:30:00.002-04:00

found the best surprise on my way to check the mail yesterday! a little birdie must have dropped by while I was working, and left me a jar of local honey on my front door knob.

I have to admit, I love the idea of having your own hive. And having friends with one is the next best thing!

Delmar DE

2010-09-09T16:53:00.005-04:00

Remember our trip to Richmond (Maymont Park / Carytown) when Tim showed us his ol' haunts? Well, last weekend we took a whirlwind tour of our good friend Jana's home town. It involved lots of food, driving, and fellowship. The weather was beautiful- sunny but cool and crisp. I'd introduce everyone, but Tracy has already done that on her blog ;)

Here are a couple shots from an all you can eat crab house, and then one from Ocean City MD.

D

Painted Lady

2010-08-20T19:57:00.002-04:00

I don't know how many of my pals like to eat at the painted lady in Norfolk, but I wanted to let everyone know that they have a deal going on groupon:
$10 for $20 worth of lunch or brunch fare
$17 for afternoon tea for two (a $34 value)
$25 for $50 worth of dinner fare

Anyone up for a tea party? :) The Painted Lady's website.

Polenta

2010-06-30T22:42:00.003-04:00

I never mentioned I tried to make Polenta. It turned out like thick grits, which accroding to everyone I talked to about it, means it turned out right. I did try to cool it some before we ate it, but I think next time I'll make it the day before so it can firm.

I used this recipe for Polenta With Fontina, Parmesan And Thyme

from Fresh365 (amazing seasonal vegetarian recipes/photos)

Red Skinned Potato Salad

2010-06-06T19:21:00.006-04:00

I've found my go to potluck dish. It's time consuming to prepare, but easy and tasty. I found it on All Recipes. Most reviewers raved about not having to make any changes, and I'm sure it is tasty as is, but I made some adjustments to suit my taste. Here is the link to the original. Sorry I didn't take more pictures... Maybe next time ;)

Ingredients

Half a cup mayo
Half a cup sour cream
1 Tablespoon yellow mustard
1 Teaspoon dill
1 Tablespoon sweet relish
salt and pepper to taste
2 pounds chopped new red potatoes
4 eggs
1 pound bacon (make it crispy!)
1 bunch green onions, thinly sliced

Directions

Mix mayonnaise, sour cream, salt, pepper, dill, relish and mustard.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add potatoes and cook until tender but still firm. Drain and set in the refrigerator to cool.
Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring water to a boil and immediately remove from heat. Cover and let eggs stand in hot water for 10 to 12 minutes. Remove from hot water, cool, peel and chop.
Place bacon in a large, deep skillet. Cook over medium high heat until evenly brown. Drain, crumble and set aside. (I microwaved mine on an old browning plate)
Place potatoes in bowl and gently mix-in the eggs, bacon, onion and celery. Add mayonnaise sauce. Chill for an hour before serving.

Swan's Island, ME

2010-05-26T22:37:00.000-04:00

A couple of shots from our trip & flight home. 5/21-5/23

lazy bones

2010-05-23T22:06:00.003-04:00

We just got home from a weekend trip to Maine. I'm dieing to upload our photos and share what we did, but I'm tired and that would require me getting up. So I'll share a funny story instead.

Thursday I came home from work and headed out to string some yarn for the beans to climb. It had rained for about three days straight last week, so the ground was soggy. I managed to get the beans strung, but between the Okra and Tomatoes was another matter. I sunk to my ankles in mud while trying to transplant an Okra seedling. Lucky for me I was wearing my flip flops and just kept working barefoot in the mud. I took a shower and while drying off, heard the hose squeaking. It turned out he had also come home and checked out the garden. He didn't see the holes I left and sunk up to his ankles also. In his good shoes... we're perfect for each other.

Okra sprouted

2010-05-12T20:24:00.002-04:00

Okra is peeking out. Still waiting on the pepper and tomato seeds to germinate...

I spread some Columbine seed yesterday. I didn't realize the blooms went to seed and I think my plants were suffering because of it. But I've dead-headed them and hopefully they'll start blooming more.

We finally have gotten some rain tonight. Hopefully it will get things jumpstarted! I feel like the garden is kinda lagging.

San Diego

2010-05-12T20:02:00.004-04:00

Luke spent last week in sunny California. Again.

I'm not jealous or anything...

Humidity

2010-05-04T18:58:00.002-04:00

I've never had luck with Orchids. I've read people put them in trays, with water and pebbles to create a humid environment. I never tried... I do have a bell jar that I've been playing with lately.

I've discovered that hen & chick plants don't like humidity; they send off shoots and eventually die. Elfin Thyme grows like it's on steroids, and suddenly, the Orchid from the office that I decided to take a shot at saving, is sprouting leaves! Crazy.

We'll see if it blooms again... I have a hunch it just might.

Seed Journal IV

2010-05-03T22:22:00.000-04:00

Planted seeds for:

Okra (Long Pod Green) g 7-14, h 55 days

Sweet Canary Bells g 10-25, h 72 days

Brandywine & Black Krim g 5-10, h 70/80 days

American Flag Leeks g 10-15, h 150 days

Radishes Cherry bell & Champion g 4-7, h 22/28 days

Last Saturday (5/1)

TRANSPLANTED

Store Bought Big Boy Tomatoes, Sweet Banana Peppers, Jalapenos & home-grown Pole Beans

We also planted the Celeste Fig. 2x2x2 hole lined with ceramic tiles that we found in the garage. Supposedly semi-bound roots = better yield.... worked for mom's brown turkey fig, let us see how the Celeste does.

The blackberry plants looking kinda rough... I have it soaking in some water today, we'll see how it's fairing in the morning. Completely my fault. Had it behind the shed to be planted, then never did... paired with no rain makes for one wilted plant... sad day.

Azaleas

2010-04-26T17:55:00.002-04:00

When we moved into our house, the yard was filled with tall, overgrown Azalea bushes. My first order of business became their eradication and we tore out the bushes on the backside of the property to make room for a garden. I just couldn't understand why anyone would want to be surrounded by this;

But then April came, and those scrubby bushes bloomed into this...

and while they are still probably going, I sure have enjoyed being surrounded by flowers for a couple weeks. And I have to admit, after seeing them in their full beauty, I'm thinking about letting a couple bushes remain. After a severe clipping that is...

Seed Journal III

2010-04-22T23:34:00.001-04:00

Pole Beans are starting to sprout. Radishes are about an inch high. Dahlias sprouted about 4 days ago, but still small.

Easter Hunt

2010-04-16T21:43:00.004-04:00

I failed to post about the Smithfield Gardens annual easter egg hunt! Every year they hide coupons in eggs around the nursery! Some our for a bag of bulbs, a geranium, but others are discounts off your entire purchase, 15%, 20%, 25%, and even a couple 50% off! These 50% off coupons are hidden in golden eggs, and the first time we went, I found one! Of course that was the year we were staying with my parents and couldn't really use it, but they did!

This year we found a 25% off coupon, and I used it for the following:

(bear with me, this is a long list for my benefit, not yours ;)

Stevia, Sweet Basil, Patchouli, Chives x3, Sweet Fennel, Cilantro x2, Provence Lavender, Elfin Thyme, Pineapple Sage, Curry, Purple Sage, Golden Marjoram, Roman & German Chamomile

Hyssop, Butter & Sugar Siberian Iris, two different Blanket Flowers, Columbine x2, Red Pillar Salvia, Empire White Salvia, Hydrangea

Seed Journal II

2010-04-16T21:35:00.003-04:00

Radishes have sprouted!

Planted...

pole tomatoes: Black Krim & Brandywine (5-10 day germination, 70 & 80 day harvests respectively)

Cosmic Purple Carrots... didn't plant many as I think it's too late for these. I'll save the rest for the fall (10-25 day germination, 70 day harvest)

Thai Hot Chile Peppers (10-25 day germination, 90 day harvest)

Sweet Canary Bell Peppers (10-25 day germination, 72 day harvest)

Maybe I'll start a calendar of prospective harvests... Something to look forward to?

Spring blooms

2010-04-14T21:44:00.002-04:00

some of the action in the garden...

The mystery plant blooms

Pole Beans planted 4/12

Chinese Lanterns protected under glass.

Also planted 4/12... won't see these again until at least May 1st...

English, French & Elfin Thyme

& a peak into my terrarium, which is usually covered by my bell jar...

Seed Journal

2010-04-12T21:50:00.004-04:00

Planted seeds today...

Chinese Lanterns (20-30 days to germination, 60-90 day bloom)

Mammoth Sunflowers (14-21 days germination, 75-90 day bloom)

Evening Sun Sunflowers (7-14 days germination, 80-90 day bloom)

Unwin's Dwarf Dahlia (5-10 days germination, 49-77 day bloom)

Radishes: Champion & Cherry Belle (4-7 days germination, 28/22 day harvest)

Stringless Blue Lake Pole Beans (6-8 days germination, 62 day harvest)

Asparagus Soup

2010-03-17T22:35:00.004-04:00

Did I mention how much I like Jamie Oliver yet? Tonight he helped us celebrate St. Patrick's Day with his Creamy Asparagus Soup. Definitely interesting, Definitely tasty.

To make this dish...

Saute a white onion, leek, and celery in olive oil until sweet, but not brown.

Cut the asparagus' woody ends off and roughly chop, keeping the spear heads aside.

Add along with 1 pint chicken or vegetable broth to the pot, and let simmer 20 minutes, covered.

Blend the soup until creamy, and then add back to the pot. Season with salt & pepper to taste. Add the spear heads, bring to a boil, and then simmer until tender.

When ready to serve- Toast your ciabatta, and poach 2-4 eggs.

Serve with eggs resting on toast in the soup.

raised beds

2010-03-16T23:18:00.003-04:00

I'm daydreaming of raised beds for our garden.

This photostream at Gardening in a Minute has me inspired...

2010-03-13T10:21:00.004-05:00

I'm about to head out for lunch at Tracy's. We're planning a shower for the lovely Lydia, and I'm in charge of decorating :) However my true love lies in Jana's department, and she has so graciously agreed to let me help her with the cuisine. So, I'm thinking chocolate Fondue, sweet baby blocks, and other goodies.

Oh, and we have not been able to make a good pot of coffee since we moved in. I think I'm going to make the coffee maker disappear when Luke's not looking... I've had my eye on this one lately...

Anyone want have advice to share?

landscaping 101

2010-03-10T22:12:00.002-05:00

Before:

After:

I'm guessing you think these are backwards? I'd guess that too, BUT it's not. The first photo was taken while the previous owners were still living here in November. The second was taken today after we used my dad's jeep to yank up 10+Azaleas from the back yard. This was to make space for my garden! Right now the finished product is definitely not up to par, but I have big plans for this space.

The only problem is we still have another set of bushes on the back side of the house that we have to tackle.

Macarons

2010-03-09T18:04:00.003-05:00

I think I may have said this before... but I'm going to try my hand at Macarons. This week.

I have egg whites, almond flour, egg white powder, and vanilla sugar. I'm going to separate the egg whites tonight. There is nothing standing in my way :)

I'm planning to use the recipe here at Cannelle et Vanille for Vanilla Bean Macarons.

Beaufont

2010-03-08T21:53:00.002-05:00

We had the windows open today! Could this be spring?

spring ahead

2010-03-04T07:15:00.003-05:00

Today is beautiful. I'm so excited for spring; warm weather, longer days, sweet blossoms. I'm ready to dig my hands into cold, moist dirt and start our garden in the back yard. I snapped a photo of the above plant peeking from the leaves in the flower bed. What might it be? Narcissus maybe? something else? I'm looking forward to seeing what else is hidden in the winter ground.

Plans for the garden:
berries- blackberries, raspberries, blueberries & strawberries.
roma & heritage tomatos, cucumbers, radishes, squash, bell peppers, jalapenos, banana peppers, okra, eggplant
butterfly bush, sunflowers, any other flower that catches my eye...
cilantro, basil, rosemary, oregano, thyme, lavender
trees- fig, pomegranate, peach

Last year's garden was wild. Crazy. Jungle-like to say the least.

This year's goal is to use the same plants for the most part and better plan the lay-out. Larger squash mounds, larger aisles, more space for tomatos and cucumber...

I'd also like to plan for the height of plants... jalapeno's, peppers, radishes etc on the southern side, with the tomatos and okra on the northern side so that as they grow, the taller plants don't block out the sunlight.

Any other suggestions?

Ghirardelli Cupcakes

2010-03-03T22:06:00.005-05:00

Tonight I made cupcakes using the Ghirardelli brownie mix. They were delish, but a bit on the rich side.

Baked approximately 30 minutes at 325'F.

Butter cream frosting:

1/2 cup butter,

1/2 cup shortening

5 cups powdered sugar

1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla

1/4 cup cream

Next time I think I'll add mint to the frosting for a grasshopper twist!

Any advice on getting that perfect dollop of frosting?

to dos

2010-02-22T20:08:00.002-05:00

March goals:

Install a door at the bottom of the staircase. We currently have a sheet of plastic taped into the doorway to stop the heat from escaping. I think the door will be much classier, no?

Raise our dining room table. When we moved in we found two wonderful surprises in the garage; an old farm table and a wooden tool box. We've moved them both into the house and adore them. How could they have left them?!

Finish painting...

Reclaim our back yard from the sprawling Azaleas.

Prep for a garden where the Azaleas were. :)

Find bedroom furniture.
And a lamp for the den...

Wish me luck!

#99

2010-02-18T22:21:00.002-05:00

Wow, I can't believe I'm on the cusp of triple digit posts. Kinda cool? Overstock.com delivered our rugs yesterday. exactly three days after I placed the order- I couldn't believe it! $1 for shipping too. Pictures to follow. Time for bed now ;)

2010-02-14T23:29:00.002-05:00

I'm back! I haven't blogged in three (maybe four) weeks. Mainly because my computer, and husband, had left me for sunny days and warmer weather on the west coast for three weeks! But he's home, and I'm in a blogger state of mind. I've been busy trying to get the new place cozy, and will soon be posting about a new favorite home store, and some great finds that Tracy turned me on to. So for now, here's a picture from Cali that Luke took.

California!

2010-01-22T17:29:00.002-05:00

I just booked tickets to California for a 5 day/4 night stay. Round trip - less than $300! I'm am beyond excited :) Any idea's on what we should do? We'll be in Ventura, but day trips to surrounding areas are good too!

the daily ramen

Facebook Timeline

odds & ends from Paris

Eiffel Tower

Palace of Versailles

Louvre, Paris

Happy New Year!

home again

day one sans job

labor day

Maine Mushrooms

Camping with the cousins

Marshall Island

The Otter Ponds Revisited

Upcoming changes...

Wharf Hill

Irene in the flesh

Irene

rain in maine

Bar Harbor to Swan's Island

Paris: Flights & Lodging booked

SAILBOATS

Pinterest

veg fest

#5

Powellsville NC

so small

creative lounge

Leaving La Florista

Orange Slices- Take one

Dinner & a Movie

Boy with a Coin

Look Out the Window

Sigh

Peek in the garden

homemade pasta sauce

Fish Tacos with Mango Salsa

Nature @ Chippokes Plantation

River Walk

Chippokes Plantation State Park

beach day

French Eclectic

French Eclectic

March gusto

Lent

Bringing home Honey

Centerpieces & Hydrangeas

playing florist

It's great but...

daffodils

side note of the day

first bit of spring sun

New phone

Soufrière, St. Lucia

how to not flood your house

frustrations

bridgetown, barbados

a bit tickled

prep for the cruise.

January in a nutshell...

Snow Day

Winter wonderland surprise

color palette

goodbye friend

sigh

Living Incredibly

sandy monarch

"new" shoes

Scott Delaney's blog

July 4th 2010

Living Incredibly

blue and yellow

honey

Delmar DE

Painted Lady

Polenta

Red Skinned Potato Salad

Swan's Island, ME

lazy bones

Okra sprouted