Tuesday, December 21, 2010

How Yule got it's name!

THE FIRST SONG
A tale of how Yule got its name
© 1994, Andras Corban Arthen

This is the story of the very first song; it is a true story, as all stories are, if you believe in them. This story begins a long, long time ago, when the Earth and Sun gave birth to the first beings-the very first plants, and animals, and people. It was springtime, and the Sun shone warm and bright from his high perch above, and Earth, proud mother that she was, held and fed her newborns and relished them with tenderness and love. It was a time of joy, it was a time of great delight.

The Moon waxed and waned time and again in the night sky, and the children of the Earth grew well and strong through summertime. They played and danced, and Earth and Sun watched over them.

Then autumn came, and the Earth began to sleep much longer every day. She grew tired and pale, she could no longer feed her children, and had no strength to grow new life. High above, the Sun grew distant, and took longer to return each morn. The nights grew longer, and cold winds blew where none had blown before.

And then, one day, Earth went to sleep and never did wake up. She wrapped herself in a blanket of snow, and rested her tired head on pillows of dried leaves, and she did not wake up, Her children could do nothing to rouse her from her slumber. They prodded her, they called to her, but she would not awaken. In the sky, the Sun was nowhere to be seen, and the children of the Earth felt fear, and also felt despair. This was the longest night that they had ever known.

“What shall become of us?”, they pondered. “Earth Mother sleeps, and Father Sun is oh so far away that we can barely see him in the sky. He is much too far to hear our call. What shall we do?”

So they brought their questions and their fears to the Moon, the sister of the Sun, for they knew not where else to turn. She closed her eyes, and took a slow, deep breath, and looked within herself, and awoke thoughts that had never been awakened until then.

She opened her soft eyes, then said, “When hope is lost, the best way to get it back is with a song. Climb you the tallest trees, the biggest hills, the highest mountains, and yule a song to reach the Sun”. (Now, yule is a word from one of the most ancient tongues. It is related to words like yell or yodel, and it means to call out in a song).

But the first beings had never heard a song, so once again they sought the Moon’s advice. “How shall we yule?”, they asked. “How shall we sing a song?”

“Take the best of what you have”, she said, “the best of what you are. Take what you love, take what you cherish most. Take your joys, your dreams, your fondest hopes, and weave them all together in a sound.”

And so they did. The climbed atop the tallest trees, the mountains and the hills. They stood on all the places that would bring them closest to the Sun. They shut their eyes, and thought and felt the best of thoughts and feelings, and dreamt the finest dreams. And, as they did, their voices rang and made a bridge of song across the sky, to reach the distant Sun.

He heard, and turned, and smiled, and wrapped himself in all his light and warmth, and sped to where the yuling voices called. As he drew near, the sleeping Earth did stir, and dreamed a dream of spring. The wheel of life made its first round, and hope and joy prevailed. And ever since, that time of year has been called Yule, in honor of the song.

But the first song did not end. It had such power, such eldritch allure, that the first beings kept singing it throughout. And then the second beings bom of the Earth took up the song, as did the third. And so it ever since has gone, through seasons and through years, until this very day.

At times the song is very soft, and scarcely can be heard above the din and clatter of our lives. But when Yule comes, it rises and it swells in memory of that night when the Sun heard, and light and life were spared.

And so do we, upon this longest night, gather with those we love and who love us, and stand upon the body of slumbering Earth, and light the log with last year’s coal, and lift our voices soaring to the Sun, and join the song that first was sung so very long ago.

We sing our thanks to those who went before, and sing our fondest wish to those who come behind. We bask in the returning light of reawakened hope, and welcome Yule.
.

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Crafting books

Today I received 3 craft books in the mail! I am so excited by all three of them!
The first is CraftHope, this is inspiring book! Here is a blurb from their website: "Craft Hope is a love inspired project designed to share handmade crafts with those who need them. It is our hope to combine our love for crafting and desire to help others into a project to make a difference around the world."


I highly recommend that you buy this book! Great projects, but also great causes!

Next two books go together: Doodle-Stitching and Doodle-Stitching the Motif collection, both by Aimee Ray I will be doing this with the girls, I am so excited by these books they are truly lovely, and Ray is an amazing artist! She is very natured inspired. I just adore these books!


For me these books represent what I am hoping to do more of in my life, to simplify, and to create, also to share my love for hand embrodery with my girls. I am hoping this will help create memories that they will cherish for a very long time.

Thursday, December 9, 2010

Vegan Apple Cider Cupcakes!

We had these today at the christmas party...OMG! They are amazing!
Apple Cider Cupcakes with "Buttercream" Frosting
From Vegan Cupcakes Take Over the World

Makes 12 cupcakes

2 c apple cider
1 T agar flakes or agar powder
2 cinnamon sticks
1/2 t whole cloves
1/2 t allspice
1/2 c apple butter
1/4 c maple syrup
3/4 c granulated sugar
1/3 c vegetable oil
2 t apple cider vinegar
1 t vanilla extract
1 1/3 c all-purpose flour
1/2 t baking powder
1 t baking soda
1/4 t salt
Cinnamon sugar or ground cinnamon for sprinkles

Preheat oven to 350F. Line muffing tray with cupcake liners. Place apple cider, agar, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and allspice in a small saucepan. If using agar flakes, let soak for 10 minutes. If using powder, proceed.

Sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt.

In a separate bowl, mix together the apple butter, maple syrup, sugar, vegetable oil, apple cider vinegar and vanilla.

Bring the apple cider mixture to a boil, then lower heat to bring it to a low rolling boil, careful not to boil over. Boil for about 15 minutes until the cider is reduced to 1 1/4 cups and the agar is dissolved. (If the cider hasn't reduced enough, boil longer. If reduced too much, add more cider to make up difference.) Stir frequently because the agar tends to stick to the side of the pan.

Strain the apple cider and discard spices. Let cool and add to apple butter mixture and mix well. Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients in small batches. Mix well after each addition.

Spray the cupcake liners with non-stick cooking spray. Fill each liner 3/4 full with batter.

Bake for 22-25 minutes until toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Transfer to cooling rack and let cool completely before frosting.

"BUTTERCREAM" FROSTING

1/2 non-hydrogenated shortening
1/2 non-hydrogenated margarine (Earth Balance)
3 1/2 c confectioner's / powdered sugar, sifted
1 1/2 t vanilla extract
1/4 c plain soy milk or soy creamer

Beat the shortening and margarine together until combined and fluffy. Add sugar and beat for 3 minutes. Add the vanilla and soy milk and beat for 5-7 more minutes.

Makes about 4 cups of frosting

Friday, December 3, 2010

Projects

I have many projects to work on...many I must complete in a manner of weeks. I have things to make for the kids for christmas:
The girls both want an apron, so I making them each on based on a 1930's style. I am also making them waldorf dolls, and clothes to go with them.
Evan is getting a book, made by me. Then after that I just have many general projects to complete, and well I am running short on time!
I also need to get my arts and craft room sorted and ready for the move to Tacoma.
Tacoma...that is a whole other project that I must get ready for, since in three month time, we shall be leaving.
Tomorrow is just a busy day...
First we have the Latter Branch Libary bookfest, then after that the girls have a christmas party at Cafe Du Monde, and the in the evening Aidan and I have to attend his company christmas party at the Hilton. A busy day indeed!

Monday, November 22, 2010

Chloe's birthday!

Today is Chloe's 11th birthday, I am so grateful to have her...she brings me joy every day, and I know that I am lucky to have her.
Happy Birthday Baby girl!

Saturday, November 20, 2010

Days of Gratitude Days: 8-12

I may not be that good at doing this on a daily bases, but I know that I am thinking about it.
This past week has been a time to really reflect on things to be grateful.
We have food, we have working appliances, we have a roof over our heads...BUT, there is always a but in there...on Thursday there was a shooting on our street...exactly where the girls normally play with a neighbor girl.
The person shot was a 19 year old pregnant girl that lives across the street from us.
The area we live in New Orleans is one of the worst places in the city...we did not know this when we moved in, but I had my feelings. The rent is cheap, but now we know why.
This street has seen a lot of blood spilled, and I am now very afraid that it may become even more familiar to our family.
People can say to me that it was not your family, and that you are safe, but those words are hollow, because it can all change in a split second. I have learned this the hard way.
We are now living in a place that I never wanted my children in...the Southerners version of South Central.
All I can think about is one of my favorite songs by Natalie Merchant

Carnival
Album: Tigerlily


Well, I've walked these streets
A virtual stage, it seemed to me
Makeup on their faces
Actors took their places next to me

Well, I've walked these streets
In a carnival, of sights to see
All the cheap thrill seekers vendors and the dealers
They crowded around me

Have I been blind have I been lost
Inside myself and my own mind
Hypnotized, mesmerized by what my eyes have seen?

Well, I've walked these streets
In a spectacle of wealth and poverty
In the diamond markets the scarlet welcome carpet
That they just rolled out for me

And I've walked these streets
In the madhouse asylum they can be
Where a wild-eyed misfit prophet
On a traffic island stopped and he raved of saving me
(rpt 1)

Have I been blind, have I been lost
Have I been blind, have I been mean
Have I been strong

Hypnotized, mesmerized by what my eyes have seen
In that great street carnival, in that carnival?


Yes I still have a lot to be gratful for, but I am still going to want more, and to make it better for them. That is one of the main reasons for us moving back to Tacoma, for me it seems safer, and it is home.

Monday, November 15, 2010

Day of Gratitude: Day 7

Days of Gratitude: Day 7 Working appliances! To be able to bake, and cook how I want too!

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Days of Gratitude: Days 5 and 6

Again have to do two days together!
Days of Gratitude: Day 5 A day spent with my family
Days of Gratitude: Day 6 The smell of clean!

Friday, November 12, 2010

Days of Gratitude: Day three and four

Days of gratitude: Days three and four
Since I missed yesterday...I will do two days in one posting.
Day Three: Friends, having simple fun at the park with friends.
Day four: The smile on my daughter's face when I wake up.



Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Day of Gratitude: Two

Day of Gratitude: Two
Having dinner out with my wonderful husband, who loves me very much, even when I am mean to him.
Have the money to be able to afford said dinner.
The gutter punks, for making me realize that I am lucky to know where my children are sleeping tonight.

Tuesday, November 9, 2010

Days of Gratitude: Day 1

I decided that I wanted to start doing days of gratitude that I have been seeing around on other people's blogs.
I know that I am starting a bit late in the month, but I will just keep it going longer!
Days of Gratitude: Day one
I am grateful for my family. I am thankful for the little things that they bring to my life everyday. A smile, a kiss, a gentle hand on my back. A look of pure love. These are things that I am thankful for everyday.

Aidan: My sweet husband, who does so much for his family.


Isibella: My sweet baby girl, who holds my heart.


Chloe: My wonderfully beautiful daughter, who just has an amazing talent of making me laugh!


Evan: My wonderful boy who is quickly becoming a man. He is just simply brilliant!

This is simple, but it is not really. My family is amazing, and I need to make sure I remember this even when things are hard.
For my family I am grateful.

Shivaya Naturals: Tutorial Tuesday: How to Have The Perfect Marriage

Shivaya Naturals: Tutorial Tuesday: How to Have The Perfect Marriage

Saturday, November 6, 2010

Changes

The girls were taken to their second sleep over today. I know that they will have a really good time, it is hard on me! I love having them with me, this is why we school them the way that we do.
I also know that I need to give them some indepence from me, and this is a safe way to do that. I know that were they are they will be treated well, and with love.
Last weekend was halloween, it seems like everything goes so fast for us now.

Chloe as a Vampire princess

Bella as a Woodland fairy

Wednesday, October 27, 2010

Simple

For some time now I have been thinking of ways to make our life a bit simpler. In this day, everything is done right at this moment, and hardly do we ever just stop and look around.
I have taught my children that everything has to be done right at that moment. So now I am going to let go of some "control" and just let things happen a bit more naturally, and thus a bit more simply.


Yule is coming and I am going more towards hand making more of the gifts that will be placed under the yule tree.
I have been finding so much inspiration:
For an artist book for each of the children
Dolls for the girls
and doll clothes to go with them.
I am not saying that I will not buy them things from the stores, but I would love for them to have things that I make for them...not just junk.
I am also going to take a bunch of their drawings, and embroider them! What a lovely idea.
"I'm living so far beyond my income
that we may almost be said to be living apart."
- E. E. Cummings


I really do think that we can live a bit more simply, and not be some driven for the latest of everything! Money is tight, and with our pending move back to Washington state, we really need to save.
I also want to teach my children that to slow down, and just enjoy the day means that you will get more out of life.

"Be content with what you have, rejoice in the way things are. When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you." – Lao Tzu

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Irish poem about Autumn from The Guesting of Aithirne

A good tranquil season is autumn,
there is occupation then for everyone
throughout the very short days.


Dappled fawns from the sides of the hinds,
the red stalks of the bracken shelter them;
stags run from the mounds
at the belling of the deer herd.


Sweet acorns in the high woods,
corn-stalks about cornfields
over the expanse of the brown earth.


Prickly thorn bushes of the bramble
by the midst of the ruined court;
the hard ground is covered with heavy fruit.
Hazelnuts of good crop fall
from the huge old trees of mounds.



R[aithe] fō foiss fogomur
feidm and [for cech] ōenduine
la tóeb na llā lāngarit.
Lóig brecca [a broin]d osseilt
Dītnit rūadgaiss raithnigi.
Ret[h]it daim a dumachaib
[f]ri dorddān na damgaire.
Derccain suba a ssithchailtib
Slatta etha imm ithgurtu
Ós īath domuin duind.
Draigin drissi delgnacha
fri tóeb in lāir leithlessi,
lān do mess trom tairnith[ ].
Tuittit cnōi cuill cāinmessa
do robilib rāth.


(Original early Middle Irish edited by Kuno Meyer, English translation by Kenneth Jackson)

Saturday, October 16, 2010

Skinned knees and other things

I just had to clean up a boo-boo, Bella fell over some rocks and skinned her knee while playing with some kids outside. She gets hurt like I did as a child...almost daily! I hate to tell her she will most likely be the same way as an adult, like me!I wish that I could protect her from these hurts, but I know that is not possible. She must get these little hurts so she can grow up, and become a stronger person.
My Parents shielded my oldest sister while she was growing up, protecting her from life, and now she is now in her mid 40's and lives with me. She does not work, she has no social life, and she just exists. I do not want that for my children, I know that at times I should be harder on them, and maybe demand more from them, but I also know that they understand there is more in life that requires them to work, and to have dreams, and that those dreams take more than wishing.
We are working towards our goal of moving to Tacoma, I know that it will not be easy, but I am so excited!
I am sewing again, right now I am making purses...I want to work on my advanced projects, but I also want to take it slow.
The school year is going better than ever! The girls are finally getting the reading down, and they are so amazed! Math comes easy for Chloe, Bella would rather do ANY thing else! Evan loves geometry...that he gets from his father. He is also writting comic books, and a novel! He also now says that he is a socialist..hmm Aidan was reborn in Evan!
I also am going to have to deal with the pain in Tacoma...there was a lot of it there. I know that going back also means dealing with things that I ran from four years ago. But I have to deal with it now for me to move on with my life. I have felt in limbo the past four years. The time is now.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Looking forward

I am starting really plan our trip home, we know that we are going to treat some of it like a vacation. We plan on stopping at Disneyland in So Cal. We shall see as it gets closer. But I also know that plans often do not happen as planned.
We know that we are not going to travel through the rockies and like that way, it is "shorter" but you have to much mountain terrain to go through, plus you have snow that we would have to deal with, and I am just not doing that. Stay south, and then head staight up the I-5.
I am so excited about going home, but I know there is so much I will miss here. But I still feel that this is the right thing to do!
Time to go home.

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Dove church and the Qu'ran


I am very angry that Dove church in Fla. will be burning copies of the Qu'ran on 9/11, and I am also very upset that there are American's that are supporting them. I know there in NO way Americans will ever or should never forget what happen on 9/11, BUT it was not the fault of a whole religion. The biggest reason for what happened on 911 was a failure to educate ALL people in this world. Dove is doing THE SAME thing as the terrorist in 9/11, they are bring hate and terror to a group of people for their OWN benefit.
I always thought as a parent you were to do EVERYTHING in your power to raise your children to have compassion, seek the truth, tolerance, and to educate them so they are not always living in fear. I firmly believe that non educated people are more like to live in fear, to be more violent, and to hate all things they do not understand.
Dove is doing THE EXACT same thing as:
Mohamed Atta
Waleed al-Shehri
Wail al-Shehri
Abdulaziz al-Omari
Satam al-Suqami
Marwan al-Shehhi
Fayez Banihammad
Mohand al-Shehri
Hamza al-Ghamdi
Ahmed al-Ghamdi
Hani Hanjour
Khalid al-Mihdhar
Majed Moqed
Nawaf al-Hazmi
Salem al-Hazmi
Ziad Jarrah
Ahmed al-Haznawi
Ahmed al-Nami
Saeed al-Ghamdi
These 19 names, these are the people that the hate need to be directed at...the 9/11 bombers. Did you know many of them were related? That they grew up being told that Americana's were evil, and that they needed to be destroyed? OH and guess what the extremist also burn the Bible, the Torah , and other holy books.
You may call it freedom of speech, freedom of expression to burn the Qu'ran, but then you need to remember that when someone is burning the American flag, a cross and the bible.
I am very upset to find out that I am living in a country that can have as much hate as the 19 terrorist from September 11Th. That in America, we have people that are just as ignorant as the people who killed so many people, and that these same people are raising their children to have the same hate and fear that the extremist like Taliban are raising their children...So America we can continue this cycle for another generation.
Please visit http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2001/memorial/lists/by-name/ to read the list of names of the people that died because of the hate on 9/11

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Moving, friendships...

We know that we will be moving back to Washington in March, and I am so excited...but I know that I am gonna miss many things/people from here in NOLA. I have meet some very wonderful people here, whom I hope I will have in my life for a very long time.
Something about moving that I have learned over the past few years is that you may be removed physically from people, but if the bond is real than it will substain itself.
There is many things/places that I will miss here as well; The quarter, Audubon Park, The Bayou's and swamps. The easy access to amazing food: Po'Boys, Boudin, Gumbo, Jambalaya, Spainsh shrimp, and so on...and I could go on!
Even with all that we are "giving up" I know that we must make this move, I need to be in a place that I feel more secure, and safe for this family. I am sorry NOLA but I have not been able to get that here. The landlords are horrible here, the crime can be REALLY high, there is high level of lead in the soil here, and that is just a few things.
You must also be very strong to live here, I am not that strong.
So in March of 2011, we will be saying goodbye to this city...days after Mardi grais...it is time.

Sunday, September 5, 2010

Home Grown

I just found a blog that I would like to share Home Grown it is a really cool sight, with a lot of helpful tips! Go and check it out!

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

Going home...again

We are starting our school year...exciting time for us. We are still largely still unschooling, but will hopefully be part of a co-op. I have offered to do a lot of the art projects.
I am worried as we have decided to move back to Washington State, writing that makes it more real now. I am scared, the move from Washington to Texas was very hard, but it was a move that we should not have done. We only moved to NOLA as a way to escape Paris Texas...trust me that is what we did ran like hell from there!
The thing is that I do like NOLA, it is a very wonderful city, with amazing people, culture, music, food, etc. BUT it is not home to me, I have tried to make it home, but it just never worked that way. I have met some amazing people, that I hope to keep in my life for a long time, but it still is not home. I always feel in limbo here, and like any minute things will be gone. I know that chances of another Katrina happening in my lifetime would be rare, it is still there. Also NO one can predict the weather, and things in the climate are changing all the time...the artic shelve is melting, the wetland's are disapearing...I mean can ANYONE promise me that it will be okay? No, and they should not. I also know that things can happen anywhere, but for me TO much can happen here.
It is also that I want to go home, NOW!
I know the moving around is not good for the kids, so I hoping that this will be the last move for awhile. I am hoping to make a better life for us there. It is time.
There is a way of life that I hope to get back to...I also do not like living where we live...the area makes places like "Hilltop" in Tacoma look like Beverly Hills! That is scary! So once again we move, and this time I will be living in Washington
untill I leave feet first.

Photo of MT. Rainer by Greg Hewgill 1998

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Gearing up

It is that time again to start gearing up for our year of unschooling/homeschooling. We changing some of what we do, one we are hoping to get a co-op together of others. I am working more on a cross curriculm for the year...but still not very structured.
Today we went swimming with the group.
We now have chickens, a fish, and a new puppy! Busy days!
The house is still a complete mess, but I am not very motivated in getting anything done...it is way to hot, and I am just so uncomfortable! BUT IT HAS TO GET DONE! Maybe this weekend I will be more willing, but I doubt it.

Friday, July 16, 2010

Better

I am a bit better, but who knows how long that will last! Aidan and I are going later today to try and buy a new (used) mini-van...we shall see...I seriously doubt that we will be coming home with anything! I know you only get what you put out, but to be honest I think that is bullshit! I just do, but that is just the mood I am in lately as well. Aidan and I work hard, yet it seems like for every step forward we are taking 10 steps backward. I know that I need to do some positive energy work on myself, and get my shit together...I am so whinny lately, and I hate that! I do not want to be like this!
One good thing is that I am enrolling in college here...what am I going to be when I grow up? A teacher of art! I know I am good at that, and it something I know I can do! So that is my main thing right now. I just have to do something...to make my children's lives better!
Life has got to be better that it has been for us, and I know I have to do something to make it happen.
This is the why I must work harder and do so much better!

Thursday, July 15, 2010

Hello Kitty mini pizzas


Hello Kitty mini pizzas
Originally uploaded by LoveBones
These are so cute! I am totally making them for the girls!

Friday, June 18, 2010

OH Crap!

As you can see I have changed the blog look...I HATE it. I will try and fix it over the next few days! It may take time I think, as it is now a total mess!

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Doctors, and reality hits me between the eyes!

Let's see now I know why you should space medical appointments out...you feel like a horrible mother! LOL The kids had some cavities! All three needed new glasses,and they are all over weight! None of it really surprised me, but it was so much to take in all at once!
So what have I done about you may be asking?
1. I am brushing teeth for them, also they have a new super duper cavitie fighting mouth rinse.
2. I make sure they have their glasses on at the correct times.
3. We are eating much healthier...which means I had to take over more of the cooking again, away from Phyllis!
3a. We are walking for health reasons, not just to get us somewhere.
3b. The kids will be doing a lot of swimming!
3c. Dance classes, yet again!
3d. Finding yoga classes for all of us!
3e. And anything else I can think of!
I have been trying for years for us all to be healthier...but not as hard as I could. So now it is no more games, and I am just doing it.
I just do not want the kids on a "diet" those fail, and often do more damage than good. I want them to make healthier choices, and be healthy!
This is my job, and they can not make healthy choices if I do not push them in that direction. This is what a Mother is, not someone who gives into their wants all the time!
They did love their swim lessons last night, and we go again tonight! They are having a blast!

Saturday, April 24, 2010

Made a new purse



I finshed my first purse...well not my first, but the first one that I used a pattern! LOL It is great! I am very proud of it. I still have a long way to go, but hey it is a start!

Fw: [LAUnschoolers] Free Books online

 

http://en.childrenslibrary.org/ They have many multi-cultural books
 
http://www.childrensbooksonline.org/ They have the largest collection of antique books online
 
 
Most have seen these, but I thought just in case. Also there is something call Tumble, but they charge 399.00 a year!
 
Enjoy,
Melinda
 
 
"You will do foolish things,
but do them with enthusiasm."
  - Colette (1873 - 1954)
 
"The child must know that he is a miracle, that since the beginning of the world there hasn't been, and until the end of the world there will not be, another child like him."
Pablo Casalas

__._,_.___
 
__,_._,___

Friday, April 16, 2010

My Goals, dreams, hopes...

I have read Nicholas Kristof's book "Half the Sky" it made me think in a way that I have not before. One thing I would love to do is go to India, and volunteer there for 3 months....all of us could do this...it would be a great learning experience for the kids, and it would just be an amazing experience for all.

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

This year!

Last year I quit smoking, that was my goal, and I surprisingly actully did it!
I was think what I want to do this year, what I want to change. Quiting smoking has been great, I do not smell anymore, and I guess it is healthier...but the major draw back for me is weight gain, and this is upsetting. I was not a slim woman to start with, so the weight gain is causing even more issues that just gaining a few pounds.
I know that it is my fault, but I still am surprised! we do not have a car, so I walk a LOT! But apprently I need to walk more. I also think that our diet leaves a LOT to be desired.
At first I was thinking that I can not make my family eat healthy, so I was going to just cook small healthy meals for myself, and then make other things for them! NO! I will not do that...we do eat healthy a lot of the time, but there is still issues with the family diet. A lot of red meat, ice cream, sweets...you get the picture!
So my goal this year is to eat better...I know losing weight will simply come with a better diet.
So tonight we are having Salmon with Cuccumber dill sauce...low fat sour cream. Also brown rice, and a salad.
So Now I am on a quest to find good, healthy recipes that my family will like.

Wednesday, March 17, 2010

St. Patrick

Today is St. Patrick's Day, and I know many people that argue that the meaning of the day is when St. Patrick chased the pagan's out of Ireland...but that is not really the story of it all, March 17Th, is when St. Patrick died. The Ironic thing is that St. Patrick was not even Irish! He was English, he was kidnapped, and enslaved in Ireland. It is said that he converted many Pagan's to Christianity(thus chasing the snakes out of Ireland) But as with many holidays, the meaning changes a bit with time. The first St. Paddy's day parade was in the US, not Ireland, and then the Irish government decided to use it as a way to draw tourism...so in many ways St. Patrick is like Santa...a way to make money!
For me Saint Patrick's Day means something different. It is a day to celebrate your Irish heritage, My Great grandmother was an immigrant from Ireland. And think about it so many cool things come from Ireland: Yeats, Guinness beer, U2, The Pogue's, My Left foot, Gerald Butler, Liam Neeson, Irish wool, Kildare, St. Brigid, and the list can go on forever! But that is what today is for me...not a celebrate of a Saint, that died many years ago, nor choose to ignore other people's religion. But it was a very different time, now wasn't it?

Craftzine.com blog : How-To: Plying Yarn

Craftzine.com blog : How-To: Plying Yarn

Sunday, March 7, 2010

A new start, and a re-connection!

I am trying to get the house more together, since it seems to always be a mess, and it is hard to be creative when everything around you is a mess! I am also moving things around so that they just flow better.
I started working on my domino bracelets, I will post pictures soon as I am happy with them. I have also made 2 purses using the "Charlie" pattern from Burda.com. I am still looking for a simple design that I can whip up quick, yet can be a be different-looking with the fabric.
An old friend of mine found me on facebook...it was odd to here from her after so long...she has children now, and is a Mom herself, this just blew my mind. But I am so happy that she found happiness. At one point we were very close friends, we spent almost every weekend together...hanging out in Hollywood. I was alway kinda sad that she was out of my life. So it is nice to be in contact again!
I am happy that we got the membership to the Zoon and Aquarium, we had so much fun at the aquarium on Tuesday...we will be going to the zoo sometime this week.

Saturday, March 6, 2010

Free Pattern - Kokeshi

This is on a website blog called Sublime Stiching! It is the coolest place! http://www.sublimestitching.com
The website is really fun, and some of the designs are simple that I am going to use them to teach the kids embrodery! Go have a look!

Thursday, February 25, 2010

Making

I am getting ready for the Freret Market in a week...I am making a whole bunch of resin pieces, and also domino bracelets, and so on.
I need to get the purses made, and I hope I do not run out of time for those.
I also have to get the garden going...just found out today that I have 6 basil plants! I know I love basil, but....

Thursday, February 18, 2010

Ready, set, create!

I am starting work on Domino pendants, and a bracelet. I need to also get some junk shops for more domino's...cheap ones are the best!

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Rant...Do not use your uterus!

Today I needed to go to Wal Mart on Tchoupitoulas Street, I hate it this one, but it is the only wal mart that I can get to on Street car/bus.
Anyway, there Aidan and I are, and we hear a baby crying...not anything new in a wal-mart, but then we hear a woman start yelling saying "Shut the F%&k up!" and then a smack....okay, then I see that the woman is hitting and screaming at this 9-12 month old baby! WTF!!!! Just because you have a uterus does not mean that you must use it...it is purely optional! That god some woman yelled at the month, but is that really gonna stop it??? Most likely no it will not.
Why would anyone have a baby and be abusive to that child? It does not make sense to me. I just can not grasp this...you have a child, you are so excited, and are filled with love, then the said child comes, and you yell at the baby and say crap like "Shut the f%&k up" This is not even rational!
A baby/child should know nothing but love for as long as possible. The world can be so messed up that they deserve as long as possible to be in a safe, and nurturing place.
So if you choose to use your uterus, and then decide that you choose the wrong thing... please look at all you options...anything is better than treating your child like shit!
Okay that is it for now!

Monday, February 1, 2010

Carnival season and the saints!

My post here have slowed down, and I really do not want that to happen...things have been crazy here...the Saints won the play-off, and let me tell you this town went crazy! It still is, and most likely will be so for sometime. It is also Carnival season, so that makes it crazy anyway.
It is almost time for my very favorite parade Muses, I can not wait! It is so much fun, it is one I will not miss!
We had the ritual for Brigit on Saturday night, that was a lot of fun! I had some issues with Ned, but they will be resolved soon.

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

Plans, things changing, preparing

I have worked out the garden lay-out, the kids and I will be making newspaper seed pots this week...I need over 200! I am excited about this, also almost all of what we are planting can be eaten! This I hope will save us some money, and even more important will help us eat healthier.
Ned became baptize as a Mormon on Sunday! This was sort of a shock, but maybe for him it be good.
I am trying to get the Goddess circle up and going, but with being ill this past weekend, there was just no way to do it. I will be hosting an imbloc, but that will be it until after Mardi Grais, as the world in New Orleans stops during carnival!
I have to start making some king cakes this week. I am hoping to get a few made to take to the mission.
I am going to start Yoga classes soon, there are many studio's within walking distance of where we live! So that will be really good.
I am also going to be taking the girls of a spa day soon, we also live within walking distance of about 20 spa's/beauty shops!
I am working on making purses, I have ordered more fabric...most is vintage reproduced, but some is really from the the 40's. 50's and 60's.
I have to get the Frida Shrine done for the shine swap that I am currently doing on swap-bot.

Sunday, January 10, 2010

Change is good....preparing.

I figure that last year I did good...I quit smoking, I started working more, and so for the 2010 year I am going to try and do more positive things. Here is my list of what I hope to do:
1. Reconnect with family, both my Mom's and Dad's. I hope that I can get to know them, and for them all to know us. I live close to both sides of the family, and I figure why not?
2. To get my garden really going this year...this will go with #3
3. To get healthy, to eat better, to just do more things that are healthy.
4. To get into school.

What I have done so far to acheive the above:
1. I found Aunts, Uncle, and cousins on facebook....I am so excited! My cousin Michelle was like my BEST freind when we were little!
2. I have ordered seeds, plants, and am reading books, catalogs and websites about gardening.
3. Walking more. growing sprouts, and drinking less soda.

I just want more out of life, and more for my kids.
I also have given myself permission to let go of my grief. It is time. I will always love my parents, I will always miss them but I must let go now.

Monday, January 4, 2010

The New Year!

I am amazed that it is already another year...WOW! We moved twice, we re-connected with my Step-son, I quit smoking, and I have meet many new and wonderful people!
I plan on vending more this year, Saturday I will be at the Broad Street Market...I am hoping that the weather warms up, and no rain!

Saturday, January 2, 2010

New year, new decade, new goals/intentions

It is 2010, a whole new decade has come, this has been a very odd 10 years!
I found the following, and thought that it was interesting(it sounds a lot like new age stuff...but It also has a lot of truth):

The Code - Ten Intentions for a Better World

The First Intent ~ Support Life
I refrain from opposing or harming anyone. I allow others to have their own experiences. I see life in all things and honor it as if it were my own. I support life.

The Second Intent ~ Seek Truth
I follow my inner compass and discard any illusions that are no longer serving me. I go to the source. I seek truth.

The Third Intent ~ Set Your Course
I begin the creative process. I give direction to my life. I set my course.

The Fourth Intent ~ Simplify
I let go, so there is room for something better to come in. I learn to trust by lining up with the highest good and knowing that I am guided, guarded and protected at all times. I am open to receive from expected and unexpected sources. I simplify.

The Fifth Intent ~ Stay Positive
I see good, say good and do good. I accept the gifts from all of my experiences. I am living in grace and gratitude. I stay positive.

The Sixth Intent ~ Synchronize
I am in the flow, fulfilling my desires and doing what I came here to do. Allowing beauty to guide me, I step into the present, where great mystery and miracles abide. I synchronize.

The Seventh Intent ~ Serve Others
I practice love in action. I always have enough to spare and enough to share. I am available to help those who need it. I serve others.

The Eighth Intent ~ Shine Your Light
I am a magnificent being, awakening to my highest potential. I express myself with joy, smiling easily and laughing often. I shine my light.

The Ninth Intent ~ Share Your Vision
I create my ideal world by envisioning it and telling others about it. I share my vision.

The Tenth Intent ~ Synergize
I see humanity as one. I enjoy gathering with lighthearted people regularly. When we come together, we set the stage for Great Oneness to reveal itself. We synergize.

Source: Intenders.com

I am going to practice some this though-out the year, and see what happens!