The Lo Down

In a Snap...Kinda

2010-06-03T21:56:00.000-07:00

Well it took me 3 weeks and 1 day but I finished my Sahara sweater. I really wanted a quick knit after finishing my Central Park Hoodie. I guess I kind of jinxed myself with that. Even though Sahara was a top down, and knit in one piece it was a COTTON BEAST.

I wanted to knit something light and cool that I could wear this summer. The woman in the yarn shop directed me to this yarn. I loved it. Shiny, pretty colors, soft and reasonably priced. Covington by Plymouth Yarns. 100% cotton. I don't blame her-but I wish she had warned me; if I never see another skein of cotton it will be too soon. Cotton is hard to work with. No stretch and no memory. After the first few days of working with this yarn I had to wear a wrist brace at night.

I hated this yarn. HATED it. It was stiff, splitty, and showed every mistake or change in tension. It kind of feels like wearing chain mail. Chain mail that shows every imperfection of my body.

I liked the pattern though. Cute, flattering...But that's all the positive comments I have to say about this project.

xoxo,
Lo

Brimfield Antiques

2010-05-19T16:27:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday we went to the Brimfield Antiques Show. It was a very warm day and extremely overwhelming. According to my research there are over 6,000 dealers on 23 different fields. We went on the last day and I think many of the sellers had already left. We saw a couple fields full of tables-completely empty and abandon. I usually love flea markets; but this time it was just exhausting. I felt like I spent countless hours stumbling around the rocky paths seeing the same overpriced, underwhelming antiques. I was very excited about the carnival food though, and I snatched up a few political buttons for my collection.
I only managed to snap a few photos to share with you. There was just too much to capture.

A gorgeous Tiffany style lamp. This thing was pretty huge. I could have used it as a beach umbrella.
This dealer had a scary amount of colorful toys.

Some of the booths were gorgeously laid out and designed. The style of these sofas with the painted canvas seems to have become very popular. I've seen it alot on Heather Bullard's blog.

There were some bizarre things too. Believe it or not this guy had a giant SOLD sign on it. Who goes to an antiques market looking for a giant pink dino?

I found Brimfield to be totally overwhelming and not really exciting at the same time. I'd recommend driving along the main drag of the market-just to see how humongous it is.

xoxo,
Lo

Saturday Pioneers

2010-05-17T17:48:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday we hadn't planned much in the way of excitement. However, it ended up being a really fantastic day.

A few weekends ago we had discovered a wonderful microbrewery in Fiskdale, MA. We had no idea that just up the road from us was such a cool place, right outside Sturbridge. The Hyland Orchard and Brewery is home to Pioneer Brewery since 2004. So this Saturday we went back with a friend to spend some time at the brewery.

It was a really gorgeous afternoon. Practically perfect. Hyland is a gorgeous spread. In addition to the indoor bar and the microbrewery there is a great outdoor space to explore.

There were tons of animals. Including lots of goats, a rather surely llama, and a mini horse. Nothing says a fun Saturday like a few beers combined with a petting zoo.

The bar was great. Rustic, comfortable. With a friendly bartender that let me sample the homemade brews before selecting one.

I enjoyed the Belgan Whit. While the boys sampled just about every one of the others.

Here is our friend Steeve enjoying the Dark Harvest Imperial Porter while wearing his special new t shirt.

The Pioneer Brewery is a really fantastic find. A nice place to hang out on a warm afternoon, and pretty darn good brewski. It seemed to have a nice little following as well. Growlers are available for only $12.00 The guys took a couple home.

-Lo

A Wish List

2010-05-06T18:53:00.000-07:00

No birthdays or other gifting occasions are in the near future. But I've been lusting after quiet a few things lately and with cash being so tight I can't spend much. So instead I've been book marking things I love and keeping lists on stickies.

Here is a list of the things I really want. In case you wanted to treat your favorite blogger.

Lo's Lust List.
-These new Ikea Curtains in bright blue. They would go perfectly in my living room.

Ikea Stockholm Blad Curtains

-Adorable Spice Jars from Anthropologie. Would be perfect on a black floating shelf over my kitchen table.

-Some vintage milk glass pieces
-Love Wreath Print by Yumiyumi. I've been a fan of this shop for a while; but this print is particularly lovely.

Love Wreath by yumiyumi on Etsy

-Ball winder & swift. I'm currently trying to lose a few big LBS. If I can reach my goal of losing 9 by the end of May I'm treating myself to a ball winder.
-A fun enamel tea kettle in a bright popping color.

xoxo,
Lo

I did it!

2010-05-04T19:40:00.000-07:00

Sorry-but these pictures were so terribly awkward that I had to crop my own face out of the picture. But you get to see the goods-my finished Central Park Hoodie. A pattern by Interweaves knit in Cascade 220 in a lovely royal purple. It is the second sweater I've made and I started this sweater in February right before moving from Washington. It took about two months to make. I finished the pieces after about a month but it took me another month to have the courage to sew it together.

I LOVE this sweater. It fits well and it looks pretty great. The sleeves are a little long but I don't mind rolling them. The buttons are black leather woven buttons.

Unfortunately, it is way to warm in Connecticut now for this sweater so I'll have to wait until next fall to wear it. (I was sweating and complaining while taking these photos!) I can't wait to start my next sweater. I purchased five skeins of celery green pure cotton from the yarn shop in Sturbridge this past weekend. I think it's a new yarn; it's called Covington by Plymouth Yarns. Lovely colors and so affordable.
After finishing this beast of a sweater I'm going to make a simple top down summer shell. I'm thinking of Sahara by Stitch Diva. I think it would be so pretty in the summer with a flowy skirt.

Life lessons in socks.

2010-04-28T20:50:00.000-07:00

Recently I finished reading "How to Knit a Love Song" by Rachael Herron. It was a really sweet love story, but with knitting. I'm rather enjoying the new genre of knit lit.

Before each chapter was a little bit of knitting advice. Funny how knitting advice can be applied to life. I'm a pretty high strung person and therefore a pretty tense knitter. Lately, I've been trying to take things more in stride. First in knitting...then hopefully then hopefully in my life.

These socks aren't perfect. The stripes don't match. At all. But...they are purple striped socks. And if I'm going to be the kind of girl who wears purple striped socks, I probably can't be the kind of girl who worries about them matching. Right?

Oh. And as I write this I'm wearing my finished Central Park Hoodie! I'll post pictures as soon as I can.

Sheep and Wool Festival: Ya Herd?

2010-04-25T07:11:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I attended the annual Connecticut Sheep and Wool Festival. The weather was perfect; it was a gorgeous day. I had such a good time with Anthony of Grocery Stores & Fancy Things and his boyfriend, Dave. They were delightful company.

All day fun things were happening like ox cart rides, and sheep herding. And there were tons of vendors selling fiber, sheep fleece, and yarn. I went a little crazy; it was over stimulation. My current financial state made me set a pretty low budget for myself. I stuck to it. Scooping up only a vibrant sock yarn for myself made by Mocha's Fiber Connection and two large skeins of super soft alpaca by Prime Alpaca. I could have filled a truckload with the yummy local yarns.

Unfortunately my camera has been behaving badly so I have limited, and poor quality photos to share with you. But here they are:

These oxen were HUGE. I can't even tell you how massive they were, except to say that that gentleman next to them was not slight in stature.
They were sheep herding with dogs. I didn't capture the dog though-he was a little bolt of lightening all over that field.

Tons of vendors were selling fleeces and roving. I am not a spinner (yet) and the whole process of making your own yarn still seems magical to me.

Anthony is a beginner spinner. He took a class recently, and purchased a bag of fleece made from a sheep named Tony!

A whole guild was there, I believe for a Spinning Bee.

And me! I liked seeing the lambies. And I couldn't stop opening my bag to peak at all my new fibers. I even picked up a gift for Carolyn of Cover to Cover. Looking forward to my next fiber festival (this was my first). Sadly Stitches East will be the weekend before the election and I will be too busy working to attend.

xo,
Lo

Waiting

2010-04-15T18:00:00.000-07:00

Prints. Waiting to be hung.

Blockers. Waiting for the socks I've almost finished.

Seedlings. Waiting to be grow big enough to be planted.

I've been gone for a little while now. I have no excuse other than I have been settling into my new place. Soon I'll be so busy I won't have time to breathe, so I just wanted to take time just to BE. Be extremely lazy, watch tv all day, go to long lunches with my bf. It's been really pleasant. I can say with confidence that nothing makes being unemployed more enjoyable then knowing you have a job right around the corner. I only wish everyone was just as lucky.

xo,
Lo

Déjà vu

2010-03-12T18:51:00.001-08:00

I've posted about this pattern twice before. But I'm doing it again.

I LOVE this pattern. It is the Fisherman's Wife. It's a fairly new pattern (available on Ravelry, of course) and I am obsessed with it.

It all started with my friend's mother admiring a similar scarf a Macy's. Since then I've made four of these. One for me, one as a thank you gift, and two others. I can now whip these out during a movie. (Think more Lifetime, less Gone with the Wind). I'm planning a mocha colored one for my Mother.

No I am NOT being paid to rave about this pattern. (I WISH!) I just genuinely love an easy, well written pattern with fabulous results. Frankly, I'm very jealous I didn't come up with this one on my own.

xoxo,
Lo

Welcome Spring

2010-03-07T12:42:00.000-08:00

You can blame me for jinxing it. I don't care. This weather is wonderful. Little buds of green starting to show, everyone full of energy. Had a really lovely day today taking the pup for a walk by the Blackstone River. Lots of people and sunshine.

Some little buds appearing in the front yard. This may be my last weekend at home. I may be signing a lease this week and moved into my new Connecticut apartment next weekend! Alot sooner then expected-but that's a good thing!

1 back, 2 sleeves, and 1 1/2 front panels of a sweater completed. I don't even want to think about sewing this BEAST together. It gives me hives just thinking about it. Hopefully I will have it completed before the chill is totally gone so I'll actually get to wear it.

xoxo,
Lo

Happy March...not

2010-03-04T13:01:00.000-08:00

I'd love to be able to post a Spring-time photo for you all, but alas New England would not have it so. I just got back from taking the puppers for a walk in the snow. Truth be told I'm still comfortable with sitting by the fire and wearing my woolies.

One of the best things about blogging is the community. I've made connections with some truely terrific people. It's so nice to get to get so much support, love, and inspiration from people whom you haven't even met. So I just wanted to pop by and give a shout out to two nice girls who gave me shoutouts on their blogs today.

First to Linnea. After a bit of a break she's back in the blogging world. I couldn't be more thrilled. I have to say I missed her terribly! Her blog is one of the most beautiful and inspirational (in my professional opinion.) I was nagging her for months to blog again because I missed her pretty pictures and tasty recipes.

The 2nd shout out goes to someone I know personally; Carolyn over at Cover to Cover. I've known Carolyn for about 8 years now. (YIPES!) But we've recently realized how alike we are, and a casual acquaintance has blossomed into a pretty stellar friendship.

So please stop by and say hello to Linnea & Carolyn, they are great girls. Their blogs are prettier then mine too.

xoxo,
Lo

You heard it here first people...

2010-02-18T17:41:00.000-08:00

This week was NYC's Fashion week. Making a BIG comeback on the runway this season were legwarmers. They appeared in the shows of icons such as Michael Kors, Nicole Miller, and Alexander Wang.

There were also shown in the Lo Down's Spring Collection:
I cast on these babies two weeks ago; way ahead of the fashion week curve.

For me-they never went out of style. I have what you might call an affinity for legwarmers.
The Lulu leggings by Spud & Chloe.

xoxo,
Lo

A day late...

2010-02-15T19:35:00.000-08:00

So I missed Valentine's Day this year. I have good reason though; moving from DC back to New England.

I have to say; none of this was possible without my boyfriend Paul.

If you want to know how much someone loves you; have a long distance relationship for 8 months, then double park a sixteen-foot moving van in the middle a city, two days after being hit by two blizzards, load it with all of your possessions, and then spend 8 hours bouncing along 95 together while exhausted, hungry, and crabby. For extra fun make it on Valentine's day.

If you're still speaking, chances are this guy likes you alot.

Happy Belated Valentines Day; To my guy.

xoxo,
Lo

Snowpocalypse 2.0

2010-02-05T19:54:00.000-08:00

For those of you beyond the mid Atlantic states I thought I'd share a little picture of the snow we've been receiving. Just a few flurries, really.

They are predicting 20-30 inches in the DC area. Now, I've spend my entire life up until this point in New England. I have braved storms the likes of which Washington has never seen. But there is something about everyone being in a tizzy that makes my heart start pumping too.

I worked until 5:30 today and then trudged home in the snow, it had just started to accumulate. I spent a lovely evening on the couch, finishing two long over due knitting projects, and drinking one long over due glass of vino.

I am looking forward to continuing all of this tomorrow. This storm is going to be a long haul-but I got flannel pjs and no place to go. :-)

Birthday; A year in Review

2010-02-04T20:27:00.000-08:00

So folks. I celebrated a Birthday yesterday. Not a particularly special one, least of all a major milestone. Simply the anniversary of which I was born.
Generally I try to stay away from blogging when feeling sorry for myself. Finding a reader who would willingly read a blog entry full of self pity is unlikely. But it's hard to feel like putting on a party hat to celebrate getting another year older without your loved ones. I loved the phone calls and the special deliveries. But I really just wanted to sit down and have cake with my parents and boyfriend, and it feels pretty miserable that I couldn't.

At first I thought "Another year gone, what did I do as a 22 year old?"
I don't want to bore you with a long poetic entry about personal growth. (Ick.)

BUT I did do a couple pretty cool things I'd like to call your attention too.
1. I graduated college. Simple, but yet so many people don't. I also graduated with semi decent grades, two majors, zero failed classes, and did not get arrested or pregnant. Go me.
2. I got a job. And we all know how that turned out don't we? (whomp whomp.) But still the point is that I-was-EMPLOY-ed-people! At a big kid job. Where you go and sit at a desk from 9-5 (ish) and you wear uncomfortable shoes and you have fancy luxuries like an extension. Although that job didn't work out for me, it lead to something more important; my next job. And so on and so forth, until hopefully someday I have a job I enjoy.
3. I moved to DC. A big city, far away from the comforts of codling parents and high school buddies. I paid bills. Took public transportation. Got robbed. I survived.
4. I got a dog. Well I didn't. My parents did. But she's the BEST. That's all.

So this year wasn't a total bust. I think I did ok.
Thoughts?

xoxo,
Lo

Stuck in the middle

2010-01-20T19:11:00.001-08:00

At a time when I have been so looking forward to the future; a new place, new job, and being with old friends and family I found myself today thinking of the past.

Specifically: one year ago today.
I like so many other people, was in Washington DC for the Inauguration of President Obama. After working on his campaign for 18 months I went with my boyfriend to celebrate and take part in this great event in history.
I had spent the previous summer working and living in DC, and I was so excited to be back. That day I told myself I would be back in Washington as soon as possible.
Well, I made it. In July of this year I moved to DC and started a job on Capitol Hill. In less than a month I will be leaving Washington. I will be packing of all of my things and leaving the Nation's capitol for good. I am returning to CT and will be working for a candidate I am truly passionate about.

I had so much hope and optimism for our Country on 1/20/09 and I have that same hope for myself now. My goals are much smaller then they were last year, but I know I am becoming closer to realizing what I truly want.

I am so excited for my next new adventure. And grateful for the last six months, no matter how difficult they have been.

xoxo,
Lo

2009-12-25T13:17:00.000-08:00

White House Christmas Tour

2009-12-22T08:35:00.000-08:00

So a great perk of where I work is that from time to time, I have a sweet hook up for going-ons in Washington, DC. Because of this I was able to cross a very big thing off my bucket list yesterday. I got to attend the White House Christmas and tour the decorations in the East Wing.

Thanks to my brother in law (my fabulous Plus One to this event) I have some wonderful snap shots and I couldn't wait to share them all with you here. So come along as I give you the Lo Down on the Official White House Christmas.

Here I am entering through the East Wing.

After entering the wing, you arrive in a Foyer that has a cardboard tree. It is a concept created by the first lady this year and it is a Wishing Tree. Every visitor to the White House has the opportunity to write out a wish and place it in the tree. The First lady will read some of the wishes.

Here I am placing my wish on the tree! Maybe Michelle will read it!

Next you walk throught the East Colonnade corridor. Those wreathes were enormous and covered in Bay leaves that were covered with a red lacquer.

After entering through the corridor you enter the actual structure of the White House, in the basement of the East Wing. Here is a photograph of the tree in the Vermeil room. The photograph on the wall in the background is of First Lady Jackie Kennedy. The room was used as a social reception room.
This is the White House library (see placard on the ground, duh.) It was originally the laundry room.

Here is the East room, it is the largest room in the White House and also where they hold all of those fancy-pants state dinners. Dolly Madison used to dry her laundry here, and Teddy Roosevelt used to hold wrestling matches. The only parts of the White House that are original are the walls. The rest was completely destroyed when the White House burned during the War of 1812.

Here is one of the four working fireplaces in the East room. The decorations used alot of earthy yet vibrant colors. As well as many green touches such as pine cones.

Here is the Green Room. Jefferson used this room as his dining room.

Here is a mantel in the green room. It was decorated with velvet ribbons and pomegranates.

Ah at last. The Blue Room. Home to the Official White House Christmas Tree. The idea behind the decorations and the theme are at the descretion of the first lady. This year the ornaments were balls from previous administrations that were sent all of the country to Community Organizations to be decorated.
The colors of the tree were so vivid and beautiful. It really was entrancing.
Yours truely.
And just one more. In case you haven't gotten enough of the Offical White House Christmas Tree.
Guess which room this is? I probably don't have to tell you, it's the Red Room. Home of the traditional Cranberry tree.

Except this year. It was replaced with a Cranberry Garland. For the first time in 50 years the White House abandon the tradition of the Cranberry Tree and did a garland instead. I was not pleased. I was really looking forward to seeing it. I don't think the Secret Service guy I questioned was very happy either.

Conversation went something like this:
Me: Excuse me, Mr. Secret Service. Where is the traditional cranberry tree?
Mr.SS: It's been replaced by the cranberry garland.
Me: WHAT!? But I've waited my whole life to see the cranberry tree.
Mr. SS: It's the first time in 50 years there hasn't been one.
Me: That's outrageous! Aren't you upset?
Mr. SS: I have no official comment regarding that. But if you're upset I'd HIGHLY suggest you go to whitehouse.gov and write a letter expressing your feelings. I'd HIGHLY recommend it. *winkwinknudgenudge*

The State Room

The White House made out of Gingerbread and White chocolate. Can you spot the First Family Dog? Bo? He's in the front.

The Presidential Seal Portrait of JFK.

A Chorus singing Christmas Carols in the Main Foyer.

Who wouldn't want to sneak up those stairs? I've seen them in so many movies!

I had such an amazing morning at the White House. It really was a dream come true. My jaw was agape the whole time-it was so beautiful. I'm so glad that I got to share it with my coworkers, my brother in law, and all of my readers here at the Lo Down.

Looking forward to many more exciting adventures in the year 2010.

xoxo,
Lo

Thanks to Ryan for all of the wonderful photos.

Snowpocalypse

2009-12-19T18:46:00.000-08:00

Unless you've been in a coma or under a rock for the past 48 hours, you may have heard that DC had some flurries today. By that I mean we were completely pummeled with a record breaking 20 inches of snow.
Being snowed-in is always enjoyable, when you don't have any responsibilities or anywhere to be. I even had my Christmas shopping finished, so I was stress free So I snuggled up on the couch and watched every holiday chick flick you can think of and busied my fingers with a few projects.

This Christmas, I participated in Mrs. Southern Belle's Ornament swap. I was paired with Amy from The Un-Wife Housewife Life. You can check out Amy's blog and see pictures of the Snowman ornament I sent to her.
My favorite part of Christmas is angels. Here is a picture of the angel ornament Amy made for me on my tree.

She also made me two beaded snowflakes.

I've finished a ton of projects lately; I've been a knitting machine. Here is my favorite project I've completed recently. It's the Fisherman's Wife Scarf, which is available on Ravelry. I was commissioned by my best friend to make this for her mother. Modeled after this one she saw at Macy's.

It was a great pattern. So much fun to knit and so fast. I finished it in only a few hours. I wish I had more time before Christmas so I could whip up a few more for presents!

Like the wind...

2009-12-15T18:20:00.000-08:00

Today I want to my local yarn shop, Stitch DC. To get some wool to start a new scarf; I've been bored with all of my other projects.
Marie; the owner showed me how to use the yarn swift. I've always seen it done-never done it my self.
It was very satisfying.

Whelp-that was the most exciting part of my day.

Happy Christmas to me!

2009-12-12T16:42:00.001-08:00

Exciting news -I now have a new computer! Now I will be able to contact the word outside the hours of my 9-6 job. I have been with out a personal computer for almost 6 weeks now. I have survived-but it has been difficult when it comes to reading blogs and updating the Lo Down.

I am happy to say now that I have a brand new mac book (again) so I will be around here alot more often.

I spent alot of time tonight updating my ravelry with pictures of new projects. I thought I would share a little with you here. Here is a scarf I am working on called the Fisherman's Wife. My best friend is comissioning me to make this for her mother for Christmas. The yarn is Thick & Quick and with size 13 needles it is whipipng up faster than you can imagine-I started it last night!

It's grown so fast! I bet I will be able to finish it tonight. I am a little nervous about the button holes at the end. It will be good to learn a new skill though!

Don't you love those giant cables?

This past Sunday-I took a Holiday Felting Work Shop at Fibre Space in Alexandria. It was taught by the wonderful Betz White of Warm Fuzzies. I had a wonderful time and made some adorable felted things. I also got to spend the evening with some really lovely ladies. Make sure you swing by Betz's blog and check out pictures from the workshop.

xoxo,
Lo

Fake it till ya make it.

2009-12-01T11:00:00.000-08:00

As far as knitting skills go I am kind of lacking. As non-knitters, most of my friends will dispute this. But when I look at Ravelry and other blogs in the knitting community I feel like I'm all thumbs. I look at everyone else's projects with their fancy fair isles and luxurious laces and I feel like I'm the last kid getting picked in gym class. My skills have improved tremendously since this time last year. I learned to knit socks which was a huge feat for me. But still my skills pretty much come to a screeching halt at increasing and decreasing.

Eventually I'd love to knit intricate laces. However, I decided to start small with a color work project. I chose the Fake Isle hat. It looks impressive, but only uses two yarns.
I have to admit: Color work is so satisfying.

Seeing the pattern work up before your eyes is completely rewarding. This was also my first charted pattern. It was not difficult. I am a visual person so it helped me picture the construction of the hat before I created it.

I absolutely loved this pattern. Especially when knit with the Noro as the main color. I used Noro Kureyon in color 188. The secondary color is a really nice Oatmeal colored Cascade wool. I never would have picked it to match but the nice woman at Stitch DC suggested it and I am in LOVE!

Be warned: This pattern is really small. It would only fit a very small head. I gave it to my boyfriend's sister and I hope she really liked it.

xoxo,
Lo

Happy Holidays.

2009-11-27T12:10:00.000-08:00

Wishing you great comforts and joy on this Holiday weekend.

Happy Thanksgiving from the Lo Down.

MIA

2009-11-18T09:04:00.000-08:00

I know my tens of followers are very concerned about my whereabouts. I apologize for disappearing. I do have a totally legitimate reason for my lack of appearance on the web these days. About two weeks ago my apartment was broken into and I was robbed.

Personal positions were stolen, but mostly I was just shaken up and scared. My beautiful little macbook is gone (and my hair straighter too!) So if you see someone in the DC metro area blogging, with FABULOUS hair-make sure to give them a high five to the FACE for me.

Miraculously my camera was not stolen but I have no where to upload the photos. I plan on buying a new computer very soon. It's just so hard when already on a tight budget and around the holidays as well.

Hopefully I will be back up and blogging by the beginning of December! I am reachable though because I do have a computer at work.

Hope you are all doing well!

The Green Monster Socks

2009-11-04T17:22:00.000-08:00

Or for my New England readers...Green MONSTAHS!

These bigguns were whipped over the past two weeks for my boyfriend. Or about as fast as one can whip up men's knee socks that as thick and heavy as a wet blanket.
You see, next week my boyfriend will be engaging in his annual hunting trip with his Dad. Where the men retreat to the woods of Maine and separate themselves from the boys. Where they drink beer, chop wood, and swap manly stories. It's quiet the affair.

Of course this is all done in an unheated cabin with no running water. Not my cup of tea, but the bf loves it. So I made these to keep him warm and fuzzy on those long, cold nights. (If thoughts of me just won't do it!)

A deep olivey/hunter green which he selected himself in Patons Merino wool. My usual sock pattern, and completed in a week in a half. I was impressed with my speed, I thought I was a very slow knitter. Amazing what a deadline will do for the speed of your work. I always do best under pressure.

Happy trails to you!

xoxo,
Lo

Ya heard?

2009-10-26T13:16:00.000-07:00

I had to rush here and post...
Anna Maria Horner has a new line of fabric out and it is TO DIE!
Her fabrics are gorgeous and wonderful and so full of life.

Check out here new line Little Folks on her blog.

It's defiantly on my Holiday Wish List!
*wink wink nudge nudge*

Irish Hiking Scarf

2009-10-12T16:43:00.000-07:00

You may not remember but I started this scarf in April. It's Hello Yarn's Irish Hiking scarf. I changed the pattern to make it wider, with an extra cable.
I bought this yarn on a day trip to Sturbridge with my boyfriend. It's a lovely looking yarn, though not the easiest to work with. It's very prone to splitting.

It's a very large scarf and is very warm. Hopefully it gets cool enough in DC this winter to actually wear it. So far it's barely gone below 70 degrees.

The yarn has a slight variegation in the color. Which I didn't realize when I purchased it. It has huges of a dusty purple and a cranberry color. It is called Gedifra Fashion Trend Fino Onda. Long name for a little fiber. I think the change in color looks pretty with the cables.

Happy Fall!
xoxo,
Lo

Autumn Adventures

2009-10-07T17:07:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I went home to RI and I went to the Big E with my boyfriend. The Big E is the Eastern States Exposition. I'm not sure how to describe it. It is a festival full of tons of food, beer, farm animals, crafts, every kind of as seen on tv product, and mostly just LOTS of food. We ate our way through the Big E.

I thought I'd post some pictures of our adventure. It really was a great day.

Me at the Sam Adam's beer garden; where we enjoyed a few Octoberfests.

The Big E has a mansion dedicated to each of the New England States. Inside there is stalls dedicated to local foods, fair, and companies.

In the RI one was a Venda Ravioli stand! A delicious Ravioli place on Federal Hill in Providence.
There were several petting zoos with animals. There also were tents where you could pay $1 and see "The World's Smallest Horse" or "The World's Biggest Snake"

There was a whole expo center where people entered crafts. There were also hundreds of farm animals that people showed and entered in to competitions.
There were rides and carnival games too.

We "horsed" around and had a great time all weekend. I really miss New England in the Fall and I defiantly did NOT want to leave.

xoxo,
Lo

Sorry all...

2009-10-05T09:10:00.000-07:00

My goal for this weekend was to make a new banner and post about my trip home to New England. But I was stuck down by a bad chest cold this weekend. I was unable to blog or leave my house. I missed two craft festivals; Arts on the Avenue and Crafty Bastards! Totally devastating. To make matters worse blogista Betz White was at Crafty Bastards.

I totally missed out this weekend.
But I am back at work today-sniffling my way through the day and dreaming of my bed...

A Dream Fulfilled

2009-10-01T11:32:00.000-07:00

A cheesy title. But that's exactly what this morning was. I can cross one very big thing off my bucket list.
Today I was let behind those wrought iron gates, and for the first time I visited the White House. I was able to coo over the China room, have moon eyes for the East room, and go gaga for the red room.
Entrance to the White House has become increasingly difficult to gain in a the post 9/11 world we live in. Particularly, with the new administration. And I couldn't be more happy that the first time I visited was when President Obama resided in those white walls.

It was more beautiful then I ever imagined. Ever detail, full of history and grace.

Basically I completely geeked out and embarrassed myself.

A picture of me at the front steps, snapped by a coworker. This one made Mom proud.

Signed, Sealed, Delievered.

2009-09-29T16:36:00.000-07:00

Today was probably one of the hardest and worst I've had in a while. From the moment I stepped out my front door it seemed things were just against me. In the middle of my afternoon I returned to my desk to a package sitting next to my keyboard!

To my delight it was a yarn delievery from Royal Yarns. Only two skeins-half my order was back ordered. But none the less exciting. The bottom skein is to finish one project I started so long ago.

I apologize for the shotty photography. I snapped it with my bb camera right after opening!

Another bright spot: DC is weather is finally cold enough to be considered Fall! Hot damn am I thrilled. After surviving two DC summers, but never a winter I have been grilling my coworkers about what I am to expect in the months to come. Not quiet a New England winter but cool enough I can wear my woolie boolies and enjoy a cocoa.

Looking forward to it.
-Lo

Nightstand Redo: One little nightstand gets a new lease on life.

2009-09-22T17:30:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things about reading other blogs is seeing other bloggers redo furniture. Well here is the tale of my first furniture makeover.

I picked up this little nightstand (and one second one) from Craig's list. Both of them for $30 from a nice couple who just moved to the city from North Carolina.
This is the cute little vintage number they purchased from a church sale. It was their first project as a couple and here is what it looks like for my before:

Hot damn! That is some 70s wood.

And is here is the after!

The process was fairly simple. I sanded the whole thing down with 100 sandpaper until none of the shinny finish was left. (I honestly could have done this more.) Then I put on two coats of white primer, letting it dry and sanding it in between coats.
I then painted it with two coats of Decorator's white, letting it dry and sanding it between coats. And finally I gave it a light sand all over with 320 sand paper and attached new knobs.

Here is what she looks like in my new bedroom of my apartment:

Like what you see? Check out more pictures of my new Washington apt on my flickr account.

xoxo,
Lo

Cannot wait...

2009-09-21T13:58:00.000-07:00

...For this pattern to be posted.

I will run out to my little yarn shop and buy some Spud and Chloe yarn and whip up that gorgeous scarf. And I haven't even completed the cable scarf I've been working on since last April.

Also...
Totally not digging this DC weather. I'm used to wearing cozy sweaters and enjoying a crisp fall morning in September. Not sweating it out on the way to work, and flipping on the AC when I get there. This is NONSENSE!

xoxo,
Lo
p.s. Camera cord missing in action. Will post again soon.

Never Forget

2009-09-11T20:09:00.000-07:00

We all remember where we were. I was 14 years old and just started high school. I was in Mr. Taylor's band class. The french horn player, Rachel came in and told us. We didn't understand at first. Not until we crowded around a tiny black and white tv which the school used for bingo.

Although I don't think I fully grasped that magnitude of what was unfolding at such a young age I know what I felt. More then anything, I was filled with an immense sense of pride to be an American. I can remember hearing the Stars Spangled Banner at my high school football game a few weeks later. I wanted to burst because of the sense of community I had felt in our country at that time.

There are many reasons why I do the work I do. Foremost, because I have a deep love of our country. I may not always be loud and proud about this, but it is a huge part of my soul. There are many times when I wish our country could have some how maintain the feeling of togetherness that we felt in the days following 9/11. When grieving it is natural to become acutely aware of what is important and what is petty. But it is impossible to maintain. We often forget that we have so much more in common as Americans, then we are different as liberal, conservatives, or whatever. I hope that in the midst of all of the debate in Washington this anniversary will help us move forward with a common goal. I hope this could be a reminder that we should work with one common goal.

I certainly don't mean to use a national tragedy for any sort of political stand point. Rather that on this important day we should remember what it truly means to live together as Americans.

God Bless-
Laur

How I Spend my Wednesdays...

2009-09-10T14:13:00.000-07:00

In an effort to make new friends in my new city I joined a Kickball league. If you knew me, you would know this is pretty laughable as I am not athletic. It was necessary to be proactive about making friends.
After an easy game we head to a neighborhood bar. My teammates are nice; mostly first year teachers.
Oh and the view's not that bad either. That's the Washington Monument and the Smithsonian in the distance, with a sunset.

Finished!

2009-08-28T17:15:00.000-07:00

And quiet some time ago too.
Computer trouble and a missing computer cord have kept me from posting pictures of the socks! But they are finished! Ta-da!
I do love the yarn: I used Painter's Palette by Koigu. It was very delicious to work with. It did pool alot. Normally my perfectionist personality would get the best of me. I pushed through though and love the socks despite the pooling.

OH those are some happy feet!

It's true - there really is now way to make your legs look flattering while take pictures of yourself wearing your homemade socks!

I am currently subletting in the city but I will be moving into my permanent apartment on Tuesday. My life is completely unorganized right now but hopefully I will be settling soon-with more regular updating of this blog to come!

My next projects will be a nice pair of mitts for the winter. I'll be knitting fetching in a luxurious yarn by J. Knits. The color is a cherry blossom pink called "Washington D.C." It will be a perfect project to embark on for my first fall in this new city.

No time for blogging because...

2009-07-28T18:47:00.000-07:00

...I'm like Joe Biden. Riding the train too and from Washington every day.

Sorry about that. But a 9 hour work day with a 2 hour commute (each way, every single day) has left me little time for anything other then commuting, working, sleeping. Looks like it may be this way for a while-but I'll be sure to touch base soon friends in blogland!

The Most Expensive Socks Ever

2009-07-18T17:19:00.000-07:00

After making one pair...I am addicted to sock making. I took a trip today to Woolstock. Which really should be renamed Yarn Mecca. Because that's what it is.

So after about 30 minutes of utter insanity in the Woolstock I some how walked away with 3 skeins of yarn that cost me a pretty penny. And the intention to make socks. The most lovely and expensive socks ever.

Some of the nice ladies at Woolstock told me that this was some of the nicest sock yarn. There were so many kinds I really couldn't decide. But this was just outrageous and beautiful! It's Painter's Palette Primium Merino by Koigu. The needles are a size two and it is strange getting used to them! Like knitting with toothpicks.

These socks are going to take a while; but it will allow me to savor that yarn. I'm going to follow the pattern in Silver's sock class. But do some kind of my own variation. I'm not a pattern person-I just figure it out as I go.

SUCCESS!

2009-07-15T18:35:00.001-07:00

I completed my first pair of socks! Though basic and some what unimpressive they actually look like socks!

VERY exciting.
I'm not sure if I should give these to my (poor, unsuspecting) mother. Or try and make her some nicer ones...
An actual finished project. Very unusual.

Now I'll be back to working on my Purple Cable knit Scarf. Though a trip to Woolstock is in order for this weekend.

xoxo,
Lo

Interstingly Enough...

2009-07-15T11:18:00.000-07:00

When I walk to work today I walk down 1st ave and I pass many important buildings in the Capitol. Capitol building, Supreme Court, etc. Well on my walk this morning I passed a group of people wearing tshirts that said "Shark Attack Survivors for Conservation."

um. What?

I see alot of bizarre people amd protests because of where I work. But this really peaked my interests. The sheer irony of it is just overwhelming. They were attacked by sharks and now they want to save them. These people are clearly greater environmentalists then I could ever bee. A shark bites me? No way am I launching a campaign to save his ass.

Check out more here.

Funny thing-this isn't even the strangest thing I saw today. I won't even get into the Acapella group singing by the Metro that had a giant poster of Obama, flying and playing a violin while wearing a toga-as the Capitol burned in the background.
Seriously people? Your going to have to be a little more relevant if you want me to understand your cause.

What do you think? Save the sharks or eye for an eye?

Reporting Live from the Capitol

2009-07-13T11:28:00.003-07:00

I've been busy with move to a brand new city-Washington. As well as with my new job on Capitol Hill. I will not be mentioning where I am working (confidentiality) nor will I be talking about anything specific about my job duties. HOWEVER I will try and give you a scoop about what is going on around the Hill.
Today is hoppin' on the hill with the Senate Hearings that started this morning to confirm Sotomayor as the first Hispanic Supreme Court Justice, and only the 3rd woman. Tons of news crews and protesters. I am trying to follow on CNN.com because I can't see the tv from my desk. Just being here on the Hill is a blessing because I get to witness these exciting events with my own eyes every day. I walk by the Supreme court every single day and I don't believe I can truely grasp the ground breaking and historical happenings that have taken place there. I don't think any person could.

That being said-I am trying desperately to find a place in the city but it has been difficult! I am currently enduring a 2 hour commute each way! The upside is that I am very close to finishing my first real pair of socks!

I will let you all know the moment I finish!

xoxo,
Lo

Happiness + The Best Summer Dessert

2009-07-02T18:11:00.001-07:00

Happiness = getting a pedicure and having my toes painted coral pink despite terrible thunder storms all day.

The Best Summer Dessert - Strawberry Delight

I'm telling you-this is the best summer dessert. Bring this baby to a cookout and you will be loved by all. It's the best because it's so delicious, so simple, and so inexpensive. It's a crowd pleaser and it totally wows. Especially when made in a gorgeous trifle dish.

I got this recipe from my mother who has made it for years.

Strawberry Delight
1 container of strawberries, sliced.
1 container of strawberry glaze (available in the grocery store by the produce)
1 container of cool whip
1 box of Jello Vanilla pudding, prepared.
1 angel food cake, torn into bite size pieces.

Mix the vanilla pudding and cool whip together to create a delicious custard like filling.
(Try to resist eating the ingredients.)

Layer the ingredients in the following order:

Angel food cake
Pudding-cool whip mixture.
Strawberry glaze
sliced strawberries
Repeat.
End with pudding-cool whip mixture. Then decorate with glaze:

Enjoy at a 4th of July BBQ!

xoxo,
Lo

My life in travels

2009-07-01T19:34:00.000-07:00

My life lately has been a bit all over the place lately. In preparation for my move to Washington DC this Sunday I have been dashing here and there. I've been trying to wrap up the loose ends (not a knitting pun!) in here my RI/CT life. I've also been trying to see as many loved ones as possible. Who knows when I will get to see them all again. My usual quiet lifestyle of reading and crafts has been filled with visiting friends, late nights out to restaurants and bars, birthday and graduation parties, and past times that were forgotten since high school (Like bowling).

These were taken from the T train on the way back from Boston, visiting my best friend for her 22nd birthday.

I have been getting my sock knitting up to par. I seemed to have managed the basic shop structure. I started knitting these autumn colored socks just because I liked the wool. They may be gifted to my mother. Only a mother would appreciate a crazy pair of socks knitted by her daughter. It is equal to a macaroni necklace.

xoxo,
Lo

Nothing But Rain

2009-06-21T17:32:00.000-07:00

I believe the last sunny day we had was two weeks ago. It's supposed to rain through the entire week. Fortunately I've had enough projects to keep me occupied and from developing full blown cabin fever.

Including a little patch work bag to carry my craft projects in.

Originally I wanted it to be for putting my knitting in my purse. (It always seems to catch on my keys) but it ended up being smaller than intended. It was perfect and pretty for holding my finished yo yos.

The rainy days have made me churn out dozens of yo yos much faster then I could have imagined. However, it is a project that I am quickly loosing interest in.

I am tempted to start something new, especially since I recently learned to knit socks! I made one semi-successful very lumpy sock. I am now tempted to run out and buy all sorts of yummy sock yarns and teeny little needles. I am trying to resist until I make a few more less lumpy ones with the yarn and double pointed needles I have. I also need to make some more progress on this yo yo quilt.

In other news. I am no longer unemployed! My one day trip to DC was not fruitless nor was it a waste of time! I got the job I interviewed for and I am moving to Washington in two weeks to start an exciting job on Capitol Hill! A little excited...very nervous...Wish me luck.

Until then. I have two weeks to fill with crafting and readying myself.

xoxo,
Lo

Chick-chicky boom

2009-06-16T16:24:00.000-07:00

I've gone crazy for chick peas!

I don't know why. I never really liked them before, and they don't have a taste that particularly appeals to me (aka not chocolate or ice cream). They are kind of bland; but they are an excellent source or protein.

When I saw this recipe for Summer Chickpea Salad on Linnea Paulina's blog I knew I had to make it. It looked so refreshing and inviting. I've made it three times the past two weeks. I ate it tonight for dinner with scallops, and for lunch with pita bread.

Here is the recipe for Summer Chickpea Salad from Jamie Oliver's summer cookbook. I make it without the mint. The second time I tried goat cheese but it was just to soft and ended up getting mushy. Also-go easy on the feta it has such an overpowering taste!

Well I'm off to the craft store to help a friend pick out some fabrics for her own Yo-yo quilt. I'll be sure to show you all the lovely little rosies I've made over the past few weeks!

xoxo,
Lo

One day in the sun...

2009-06-14T05:29:00.000-07:00

This picture was taken yesterday, when the sun actually managed to show himself for the first time in a long while. Today we're back to the miserable rain and it seems worse than ever.

In an attempt to try new things I made roasted chickpeas yesterday afternoon. I searched through recipes on Tastespotting (per usual) and compiled my own recipe.
They were delicious- a bit of a crunch with a bite from the lemon juice. The Greek yogurt cooled it all down and made it a delicious summer snack.

Roasted Chickpeas:
Coat chickpeas with:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon cumin
A dash of onion powder
A dash of Emeril's essence (I use it on everything)
Salt

Place on a cookie sheet (Use parchment or tin foil if you don't want to be scrubbing all night!) and bake at 425 for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Drizzle with more oil, several tablespoons of lemon juice, fresh parsley. S&P to taste. Or anything else your little heart desires. Dollop with Greek Yogurt.

Chickpeas are a great canvass for flavors-so try new combination's! They were so tasty.

Here is a picture of the Jane Market bag I made from Alicia Paulson's pattern. It was easy- I drafted the pattern on graft paper and the bag came together quickly. I made a 2nd sans the pocket in a lemon printed calico. You can see both my bags and tons made by others on the Jane Market Bag Flickr group! I think these would be great to whip up to wrap a present in instead of the usual paper gift bag.

12 Hours in 1 City

2009-06-11T18:38:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I hoped a plane to DC for a job interview. I flew out at 7:50 and arrived in DC via the commuter train at 10. My return flight was at 9:30. It was a crazy day, jammed packed and busy. I managed to squeeze in a few things though. I walk around the mall, a trip to the botanical gardens, the American history museum, and a few of my favorite DC foodie joints.

I managed to get a few pictures though mostly I just stalked around, scoffing at the groups of middle schoolers, sweated profusely, and ate my way through the city.

The First Lady's exhibit at the Smithsonian American History Museum. I was excited to go because it has been closed for the past two years.

Dolly Madison's dressing gown. Definitely trumps my tattered pink bathrobe from Land's End.

If you are ever in DC eat at Good Stuff Eatery. Owned by Spike from top chef and they are the best burgers in the city. I used to go once a week when I lived in DC last summer.

The Botanical Gardens are one of my favorite places to go. Many tourists pass it right buy because it's right at the base of Capitol Hill. It's worth the time to go inside- if for the orchid room alone!

It's so tranquil inside and gorgeous. I wish you could SMELL the way it smells inside the conservatory. The perfume of the flowers is overwhelming it's a total oasis.

Being a lonely tourist and snapping some cheesy shots of myself on Capitol Hill.
In front of the Supreme Court.
I want to know who rides this bike to work every day on the hill! Do you think they ride off with important pieces of legislation in that basket?

All in all the trip was good-though very long and exhausting. I wasn't use to all the heat and the walking and it made me realize how out of shape I've gotten since last summer! I forgot to take pictures of my dining experiences at Oyamel and Tangysweet! Both were delicious and I recommend them to everyone.

xoxo
Lo

Flea Market Fun

2009-06-08T06:45:00.000-07:00

I've been dying to go to a flea market by my school for months. I finally convinced my boyfriend to go with me yesterday, despite a late night before with celebrating at his Graduation Party.

Boy am I sorry I waited so long. The flea market was fan-tastic. It was enormous. Like pretty much any flea market-alot of junk. But also so many treasurers-I helped myself to a few.

Some awesome retro glasses. They had an ET one too, a little freaky though.

This dealer had just tables full of stuff with no rhyme or reason. I don't think he even knew what he had. I scored a gorgeous hand embroidered table runner. When I raised it over my head and asked it how much he just shrugged and said "I dunno...$1?" I screamed "SOLD!" with total glee and ran over to him-much to the embarrassment of my boyfriend. He doesn't understand my passion for vintage linens-why I would want someones' old hankie or napkin. I just think they're pretty.
BINS full of crazy cookie cutters. I didn't even look through this because I was too distracted by the following....
HUNDREDS of vintage knitting needles. I remember Martha Stewart Living had a spread in one issue of dozens of brightly colored vintage knitting needles, and ever since then it has been in the back of my mind to start collecting them. The vibrant colors look so gorgeous together. So I scored 6 pairs for $5 and couldn't be happier to start a new collection!

I'll post some pics later of the other linens I bought. I wish I had been to this flea market sooner-I can't wait to go back.

xoxo,
Lo

When turkeys fly.

2009-06-04T18:31:00.000-07:00

This morning as I stumbled to the bathroom, bleary eyed and still full of sleeps I saw this site from my window.

Wild Turkeys perched on the neighbors swingset. We've had wild turkeys for years but I've never seen them so excited to play!
So I went outside to sneak in close for a picture.

And it flew away! So long turkey, come back and play soon.

xoxo,
Lo

As promised...if a little late

2009-05-28T13:17:00.000-07:00

So I said I would post about Antiquing Mecca. A little later then anticipated but here it is. If you ever find yourself passing through Louisville, Kentucky with a hankering for some exclusive antique shopping I suggest you stop here. Even if you aren't in the area traveling to Kentucky exclusively for this reason would be worth it. (Plus then you could stop at the Creation Museum)

Here are our pictures of our trip to Joe Ley antiques. The building is a school house from 1890 and contains 2 acres of top of the line antiques that could keep a shopper like myself entertained for weeks!

The outside of the building. Joe Ley is located on East Market Street in Louisville, CT. It's in an up and coming part of town that is full of artists studios and shops.
This is a lap my father and I purchased for my Mom. She loves the craftsman style. Another cool thing about Joe Ley is that the prices are listed in secret code. You're given a key to help you decode the prices when you first enter the front door of this palace! It takes a little extra brain power (Or alot, if you're terrible at math like me!) However it adds to the sense of adventure and makes you feel like a real treasurer hunter!
Dad goofed around with some of the more unusual pieces like this Egyptian sarcophagus.

One of the many hallways in Joe Ley-there were four floors full of little nooks and crannys like this. Who knows what priceless antiques are waiting to be found!
All of the windows are filled with stained glass pieces.

There were HUNDRED'S of gorgeous chandeliers in Joe Ley. Some where more modern and others were huge, traditional, and crystal. The author of The Nesting Place would have a field day here.
A massive organ was tucked into the back of the warehouse waiting for someone to rescue it. I think that if someone could reassemble that thing they deserve to get it for free! It must have had hundreds of pieces!
There where tons of old advertisements and display.

Joe Ley would be a builder's paradise because it has so many architectual pieces such as this fountain.

This was one of the saddest things I saw. There were tons of handmade quilts in piles around the whole shop. It made me wonder who made these quilts and didn't have any family who cared enough to keep them. I can't imagine how terrible I would feel if I worked so hard on something only to have it end up in a shop, not loved and treasured by my family. The quilts were gorgeous though and it inspired me to take on my next big project.
A quilt like this:

I was in LOVE with this Yo-yo quilt. However at $200 I had a common crafter thought: "I could make this!" The colors were also a little to bright for my taste and it would mean more if I could hand make my own. So despite having dozens of projects going on right now (typical of me) I have decided to start a Yo-Yo quilt!

I hope the pictures of Joe Ley were interesting and inspiring. If you do happen to venture that way for the fine antique shopping also make sure you dine at the Mayan Cafe. It is my favorite restaurant and we've been going there since I was in 7th grade. We went on our most recent trip and it was even more decadent then I remembered.

xoxo,
Lo

Back in Action

2009-05-22T18:53:00.000-07:00

I returned from my trip south on Monday evening. However a foray to Connecticut yesterday and today prevented me from updating and letting you all know about my trip. The trip was long and exhausting, with 18 hours in the car each way and two days of working in between. The show was the best it has ever gone. Often, when the economy goes down craft industries such as resin models grow because unemployed people have more time on their hands to enjoy their pastimes... Or at least that is how someone explained it to me...and I buy it.

Rather then tell you all about the show I'll just give you some pictures and let them speak for themselves. Trust me they don't disappoint.

Conventions are a great opportunity for enthusiasts to travel all across the galaxy and meet with their allies.

Sometimes they even capture some hostages. This is me with a few of the strapping men I met at this convention.
The original robot from Lost in Space.
A company selling Godzilla kits. If your interests are star wars, star trek, monster flicks, obscure horror movies, or fantasy; Wonderfest has it ALL.
A display... I didn't really understand this. If it's from something it is much to obscure for a novice like me to reference.
A giant space bug hanging from the ceiling of the convention.
This is a life size figurine: not a guy in a suit. I walked by several times to make sure.
I forget which movie this was from, but this guy forgot to put air vents in his costume and almost passed out on the convention floor. Can you see how his helmet is all clouded up from his breath?

I hope that all satisfies your curiosity as to why I go to Kentucky every year for five days. I'll be sure to update tomorrow about one of the coolest antique places i have ever visited.

xoxo,
Lo

Long gone...

2009-05-13T19:13:00.000-07:00

Yes. I have been absent since my finals and college graduation taking place all last week.
I will also be gone the next 5 days as I will be going on a business road trip with my father to a strange and foreign land...Kentucky. It will be an adventure to a convention of the science fiction/horror movie genre. I am desperatelyy hoping for a pit stop at the Creationist Museum. Oh yeah it's real and after reading about it in "A Year of Living Biblically" by AJ Jacobs I desperately want to go.

I will attempt to blog from my (new!!!) blackberry. If it doesn't work because I am slightly lacking in the technology skills department I will catch you up to speed upon my return.

xoxo,
Lo
(College Graduate with an elevated coolness factor due to her new blackberry)

Study break

2009-05-05T12:54:00.000-07:00

I probably haven't been working hard enough to merit a study break. But nonetheless...

I have a final on Yeats tomorrow. That's right, William Butler Yeats. An entire class on the works of Yeats. (English major) It's difficult-not going to lie. This time tomorrow I will be done with Yeats.

Happy Cinco De Mayo! I won't be indulging in any Mexican food today. It's sad because Mexican is my favorite food. I went a little crazy this past semester so now I'm a "diet." I hate that word. It is true to form: DIE is in it. Because they make you want to DIE. I used to know a woman who called it a "live-it."She'd pump her firsts and say "LIVE-IT" So obnoxious. NO ONE enjoys dieting that much.

Lets just say I'm on a healthy living kick...
So I went to the grocery store today and loaded up on fresh foods for my "healthy living kick." It really isn't that bad. Fresh fruits, veggies, fish and shellfish. I just miss icecream though. I could eat icecream after every meal...

Back to Yeats. Oh and my boyfriend bought me those lovely tulips at the grocery store. What a gem.

xoxo,
Lo

One can dream....

2009-05-04T18:29:00.000-07:00

I need a craft studio like this.
Seriously, this woman is organized. She's my hero. And everything is pink and green. Her style is Fabulous with a capital F.

xoxo,
Lo

Study break

2009-05-04T12:04:00.001-07:00

I took a break from studying to go to the mail room. TWO packages were waiting for me. Unexpected and delightful. One was my graduation dress that at first I was unsure of but as i wore it I liked it more and more. It does need some tailoring though, but that will be easy enough for me to handle.
The other was a necklace I ordered from Classic Designs by Theresa Mink on Etsy.
You don't Etsy?
Oh I suggest you start.It's gold and perfect and delicate. You really can't beat the price either.

Off to a study group!
xoxo,
Lo

Sunday Best

2009-05-03T16:53:00.000-07:00

If you're looking for a recipe to impress. I highly recommend this. A Triple Decker Chocolate Coffee Toffee Cheesecake. Both of my parents had their birthdays this week and they came down to my school to visit and celebrate. We went to pizza at our favorite pizza place. My dad is obsessed with their pizza and he is a very picky eater.

Dad suggested that he'd really LOVE a cheesecake for his birthday. He's not so good being subtle. I knew this one would be perfect. For my Dad: a Tough Critic, and my Mom: Chocolate lover.

My advice if your going to make this cheesecake: follow the recipe. I am totally impatient and get stressed out about things. Making this cheesecake made me anxious and I tried to fudge the directions. Trust me-don't. Patience is SO KEY with cheesecake. I learned that with the one I made on Valentines Day.

With this cheesecake you pour each layer, bake 20 minutes and pour the next. I couldn't stand to wait so I did it all at once. Although the cheesecake still turned out DIVINE. The top two layers were swirled together, totally destroying the integrity of the "triple decker" look.

I also overcooked the top just the teensiest bit! So I covered it with homemade whipped cream and chocolate shavings-no one knew. Not even my picky Father. This was a hit. It is extremely rich though. This is not a light and airy cheesecake by any means!

xoxo,

Face Lift!

2009-04-29T19:32:00.000-07:00

The Lo Down just got a makeover!

Thanks to Andrew for the new header. I loved my old one. I was very proud because I made it myself. But this way has much more panache. The bright colors are very me!

It also gave me a great distraction when I should be writing my final english paper!

What do you all think?

xoxo,

Economy Got You Down?

2009-04-27T20:08:00.001-07:00

I know it's got me down. I'm about to graduate with my undergrad degree and the job search has got me way down. I've applied to over 40 jobs over the past month and I have had one response for a phone interview.

It's bleak people. As bad as people say it is-it's worse. And I'm still in the bubble known as a college campus. It can make you feel pretty poorly about yourself. Going from working on Capitol Hill last summer to being an unemployed college graduate hurts. Actually it down right sucks.

Don't tell me that everyone is going through the same thing. It does not help one bit.
What does help though is treating yourself at a flower sale. An on campus flower sale in the beautiful sunny weather. You should have seen how beautiful the flowers all looking in the sunshine. So...I bought two orchids.

The nice sales man telling me I was prettier then the flowers may have sealed the deal.

Even if it obviously wasn't true because just LOOK at how gorgeous these are!

So. Wall street execs...my advice to you. Buy some flowers: It'll make you feel a whole lot cheerier.

xoxo,
Lo

Oh yes...Oh my.

2009-04-24T13:21:00.000-07:00

Moments after finishing my ripple afghan my fingers started itching for a new project. I just can't sit still, it's my nervous personality. I love making big blankets, I've done two in a row. I decided to take on a project I could actually wear.

In light of Spring Weekend and the gorgeous weather today my boyfriend and I decided to take a drive and wound up in Sturbridge, MA. It's only about a half hour away from our school. We wanted to see some of the cute shops and restaurants. Imagine my delight when we drove right by a yarn shop. We stopped and I bought these four skeins of GORGEOUS purple yarn. I also bought some long bamboo needles.

I haven't picked a pattern yet. I think I might make my own. I want to do a really wide cable knit scarf that's long and warm. I know we're heading into summer...but lets face it I'll probably finish it around next fall.

Seriously though...don't those skeins look gorgeous enough to eat? Luxury yarns are so stimulating...My boyfriend was a fan of the baby alpaca yarn.

xoxo,
Lo

Hurray for finishing something!

2009-04-18T16:51:00.003-07:00

SO. I said I would tell you about that soup I make. My mom made it first and I love it. It's a typical chicken soup but it's just so yummy I make it in huge batches and eat it for weeks. (Ahh the life of a college student). It's adapted and perfected from a recipe from Fine Cooking.

Lo's Mom's Chicken Tortillini Soup:
Take and chop up as much leeks, onions, celery, and carrots. (Scallions too if you like!)
Cook in a huge pot with butter and salt and pepper until soft.
Add chicken broth.
Bring to a boil.
Add peas and simmer.
In a separate pot. Cook tortellini.
Combine and enjoy!!! So much more than mmm mmm good.
*Crucial to store soup and tortellini separately if you don't want a soggy mess!

It's a great way to eat tons of veggies and really only the tortellini is a splurge.

Oh and I finally finished my afghan! I used the soft waves pattern from Jan Eat's 200 Ripple Stitch Patterns book. And all of the yarn is "Simply Vanna." It was a great yarn to work with and the colors are so gorgeous! Look at how that blanket pops off my navy couch!

xoxo,
Lo

No...I don't wanna...can't make me do it.

2009-04-17T13:51:00.001-07:00

Why would I want to clean my room on a beautiful day? Even the neat freak in me is saying I should just take a breather...take a load off.

I'd much rather stare at craftblogs such as http://rosylittlethings.typepad.com/ and imagine a life in a little shabby chic bungalow...and now a college apartment. A life far more full of whimsy then that of a soon to be college grad who is job searching and stressing over finals.
So instead I will eat this afternoon snack and blogstalk.

I know what you're thinking. That can't be MY afternoon snack. Not the Lo you know...

mmm...that's much better. And yes, its a strawberry cupcake. Perfect for an spent at Mansfield hollow with old girlfriends.

xoxo,
Lo

p.s. I'll tell you more about the soup I made last night...later. Right now I need to drool over other peoples houses and projects.

Love Day!

2009-02-18T10:15:00.000-08:00

Happy belated Valentines Day!

I know I’ve been missing for quiet a while. It was difficult getting back into the swing of things this semester because I’m a second semester senior. It’s been difficult getting back into my school schedule.
I’ve also been distracted from blogging because I am constantly reading others food blogs. It’s completely addicting and a little intimidating because I know my blog could never be as good.

Here are some of the blogs I’ve been loving lately:
www.tastespotting.com
www.foodgawker.com
www.noblepig.com

Another awesome craft blog that I love is by artist Anna Maria Horner. Here photographs are awesome and she designs some truly amazing fabrics.
www.blogspot.annamariahorner.com

I hope you all had as wonderful a Valentine’s day as I did. I’ve always been a complete Valentine fiend. I love the holiday, despite always being single at this time of year. It hasn’t bothered me much and I’ve always focused on baking and hand making valentines for friends and family. This year I DID have a Valentine for the first time. My fantastic boyfriend I celebrated together Saturday night. We stayed in to avoid the crowds and we had a wonderful time. I cooked a delicious dinner and a cheesecake. I’ve never made a cheesecake before and I was extremely intimidated because you need to use a water bath. It came out perfect though!
I used Alton Brown’s recipe from “I’m Just Here for More Food.” He recommends buttering and lining your spring form for extra insurance to prevent your cheesecake from sticking. I certainly know what it’s like to spend hours on a dessert only to have it stick and have the pan upside down on the counter wacking it vain in an attempt to free you prized cake.

And of course nothing accents a perfect cheesecake like come chocolate covered strawberries!

xoxo,
Lo

Oh by gosh by golly...

2008-12-15T13:57:00.000-08:00

It's time for mistletoe and holly!

I'm home in Rhode Island for winter break and enjoying a vacation from school. One of things first things I always have to do when I get home from school is decorate for Christmas. I usually do most of it myself. My mother hangs a few ornaments while my father directs from his lazy boy, taking credit for my festive work later.

This Year's Tree

I think it's interesting how people develop a preference for styles of Christmas trees. I've always enjoyed discussing this with people because people seem so fervent in their views. Blue spruce vs. fir tree. Tall and thin vs. a short and fat, or somewhere in the middle. White lights vs. Colored. Twinkling vs. not twinkling. Angel or star on top. Most people seem to garner their preferences from their childhood. This is sure to create a few spats with blended families or newly weds.

I personally like an obese blue spruce. One that is comically fat with alot of personality. It should always have white lights are required, as is an angel.

I love nutcrackers. So traditional and old world. Now I just have to wait for the Nutcracker to air on TV and I will be totally ready for the holidays.

-Lo

Final exams and a delightful crisp

2008-12-07T18:39:00.000-08:00

It was a pleasant surprise this morning to wake up to the first sprinkling of snow this winter. It was the morning after the holiday party my roommates and I hosted. We all made a big breakfast to soak up the drinks in our bellies and prepare us for studying for finals. I spent the rest of the day curled up in a blanket, watching the snow, and typing study guide. It would have been a wonderful, wintry afternoon if it wasn't for the three communication science exams I have coming up this week.

I am on a quest this week to use up all of the perishable foods I have in my apartment this week. I'm trying to think up creative ways to use even the most random ingredients I have.

I don't have a meal plan at school but occasionally I have a friend swipe me in. When I have that opportunity I try to take as much fresh fruit as I can. Today I found myself with five apples that were starting to get mealy so I decided to make a crisp.

It turned out to be the best one I've made thus far.

Here is the recipe I used:

For the Apple Filling:
4-5 apples ( I used Macintosh)
1/2 tsp cinnamon
3 tbsp sugar
3 tbsp flour

Crispy part:
1 cup flour
1 cup oats
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup butter.

Slice the apples into a pan. (The firmer the apple the thinner the slices should be). Mix with flour, sugar, and cinnamon and pour into a 9x9 pan.

In a separate bowl mix flour, oats, and brown sugar. Slice butter into the bowl, in tiny pieces. Spread evenly over apples.

Bake 45 minutes at 350.

It was one of the easiest crisp recipes I've used and it was by far the most delicious. It will definitely make a hearty breakfast before my exams.

My sleepy roommate, taking a study break to enjoy some delicious crisp!

-Lo

Hello All!

2008-12-05T22:00:00.000-08:00

I've been meaning to start blogging for quite a while. I read about a dozen different blogs daily, in a wide range of topics. Politics, Celebrity Gossip, Crafts, Cooking, and some other random ones. My sister has a hysterical blog, and if I could write sounding half as hysterical as she does I'll consider it a success.
I have a variety of interests so I'm sure my blog will be a random, quirky smattering of all the things I love; American politics, arts and crafts, cooking, and all things pretty and silly.

My first adventure I'd like to post on is the continuing saga of Lauren vs. the art of bread making. A showdown of epic proportions went down in my college apartment today. Needless to say, I failed. Epically.
My father is a wonderful cook. I have always loved the breads he's made over the years. Savory focaccias, and fluffy white bread. There is nothing I enjoy as much as a homemade bread. But I've never tried to make it myself before.
I decided to tackle a fairly easy country white so I could have some bread for my week of finals. My dad wrote the directions out for me, like you would for a four year old.
On Sunday was the first attempt but the yeast didn't activate and the bread didn't rise. I still made it anyway and it looked like chibatta bread but it weighted ten pounds. My roommates took to smacking each other with it and giggling over my failure.

Today I decided to try to again and I was convinced things would go better today. Unfortunately the same thing happened again. I was really upset and I haven't a clue what went wrong. I followed the directions to a T.
I managed to salvage the project. I spread the dough out on a cookie sheet and brushed it with some olive oil. I sprinkled it with some thyme and rosemary and baked it until it was crispy. It made for a crunchy, savory breadstick type thing that we ate with olive oil. It was delicious but not quiet the soft country white i was hoping for.

I'm going to wait before I attempt to bake bread again. My dad said he'd help me over Christmas break and hopefully i can learn some sweet bread making skills that will definately impress.

My very chrispy, unexpected focaccia (?)

- Lo