Miss•Elena•Eous

A Lovely Weekend Away

2010-02-23T19:14:00.001-08:00

I've been lost between the blizzard white lines of to-do lists for weeks on end, and while I see another snow storm coming my way, I have thankfully the blinding flurries of stress this past weekend, in exchange for real, sparking snowflakes. A friend of mine whisked me away to Tahoe for three days of non-stop skiing. While I may not have mastered gravity as well as this skier has, I must say that I feel very like some sort of quick, if maybe a bit ungraceful, bird coming down the slopes. While the skiing was amazing, I was most dazzled by the weather. I must say there is certainly nothing nearly as lovely as receiving a morning kiss of snow-stars.

The Perfect Valentine's Breakfast Treat: A Heart-Shaped Doughnut Recipe

2010-02-14T07:06:00.000-08:00

Ingredients:
1 cup water
1/2 cup butter
1 TBSP sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs
vegetable oil
confectioners sugar

Directions:
In a heavy saucepan, combine water, butter and sugar and bring to a boil. Add flour and cook, whisking constantly for 3 minutes. Remove from heat. Cool.
Spoon mix into a bowl. Add eggs, beating at medium speed with an electric mixer.
Turn dough out onto floured surface. Roll to 1/8 inch thickness and cut into 1 inch squares (or any shape you'd like (I did hearts) though cooking time varies with size.)
In a Dutch oven (or on stove top) pour oil to a depth of 1/2 inch. Heat tp 375 degrees. Fry 1 to 2 minutes. Drain on cooling racks lined with paper towels. Sprinkle with confectioners sugar.
Optional toppings:
- berries
- frosting and sprinkles
- chocolate sauce
- jam

"Live simply that others might simply live." ~Elizabeth Seaton

2010-01-26T18:13:00.000-08:00

The wonderful Christina of Soul Aperture has come up with an oh-so-clever, oh-so-sweet, oh-so-very-generous idea... Here are the instructions: write a list, however long you like, of all the simple things that make life so lovely. Then, link your post to her page: here. For every person that participates, a dollar will be donated to help Haiti.

Here goes my list:
- utter quietness
- a room of my own, colored with the essence of 'relax'
- feminine gloves
- the piano
- scrambled eggs
- a knock-the-breath out of you surprise hug
- the sound of a loved one's laughter
- yoga
- jane austen movies (love Keira Knightley or Anne Hathaway)
- clean, freshly cut nails
- a massage
- Dove shampoo
- the shadow hours
- the tops of hills
- knowing there's a hand out there for you to hold, even if you haven't met the body attached to that hand
- the taste of rain water
- flowers
- trees (especially for hugging- have you ever really tried it?)
- libraries
-the sound of water, birds, grass, nature in all its gigabyte-free glory
- feeling "the burn" of a truly taxing exercise
- fruit
- having a place to go home
- vanilla extract
- showers, pillows, clean clothes

I could go on and on, but gratitude and guilt overcome me... Does anyone else feel a sort of... survivor's remorse sometimes? I cannot seem to reach an answer of why I have been given everything when others are ransacked of what little they had constantly? It makes me hurt...

A Sunny and Stormy Stroll Through the Vineyards- Chasing a Rainbow

2010-01-24T10:14:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I ventured off to Napa for a dash of inspiration. The Sky promised lovely things, but she was feeling quite mercurial and rarely let the Sun smile through her clouds... I embraced her mood swings and found beauty in both darkness and light.

Musical Monday No. 9

2010-01-17T06:49:00.000-08:00

She sees blue and red on the crown she wears upon her head.
i love you he said, her husband she recently wed.
she dreams this while she's wide awake.

counting her diamond rings,
she has one for every day of the week.
birds are dancing while she sings
oh her dream life, it is so unique,
and i hope this stops for her own sake.

and if you could make this happen,
i would not be surprised.
make life what i'm dreaming, all in just one night.

then why oh why can't i?

golden yellow skies, an image of her in my eye.
growing trees and firefly's,
and answers to the question "why?"

people twice my size, and all the times for second tries.
we heard you on the radio, oh it feels so good just to let go.
if you could make the oceans, and live above the skies,
wake the sun for morning and light the moon at night.

then why of why can't i?

Inventive Umbrellas

2010-01-15T15:16:00.000-08:00

Snooping around looking for umbrella photos the other day I found these super-umbrellas. They're not just your ordinary umbrellas...

This is for those of you who don't particularly like stormy days...

Perfect for keeping hair and make-up flawless...

More overhead coverage...

So your poor little puppy doesn't come home soaking wet...

Too cute! I want this one...

Turns into a little bag...

And my favorite of all... The tandem umbrella for sweethearts. I mostly love this picture because the boy is quite good-looking and I just ADORE both their senses of fashion.

Anyone else having stormy weather? Which one do you want?

Today I'm Thankful For... Umbrellas

2010-01-14T16:54:00.000-08:00

Such simple, useful items... yet so beautiful in their devotion...
Especially in these photos. Notice the how the different color settings affect the mood?

(If anyone knows where these photos came from, feel free to tell me)

1 Year Anniversary

2010-01-01T10:22:00.000-08:00

Yes- it has been a whole year since I began this blog. I doubt anyone but my mother read that first post of mine... That person that I was at this time one year ago would not believe she could have met so many wonderful people through blogging. She and I are so different now. It is hard to believe we were the same person.

Looking back on past resolutions, I can easily see which ones I have kept and which were forgotten. For three years I have resolved to be more outgoing and spontaneous. Try new things. Defy my character. And I have. Slowly and in small ways I have stepped outside my comfort zone. I am the happier for it. However, last night, in the very last few minutes of the year, I decided to finally take it off my list.

You see, it is a wonderful thing to push yourself. The leap and landing, or the fall in the end- either way, it is a rush and it is rewarding. But I have been pushing and pushing, and it's hard to see where my boundaries are now. I like that- being a limitless person. But sometimes I miss the comfort of my little box. So this year, I will keep in mind and heart and spirit, a sense of spontaneity, a reminiscence of recklessness, and an ounce of outgoing. More importantly though, I will let myself be me. I will stop feeling guilty when I'd rather be at home reading than out with my friends.

It is a wonderful gift to be able to be alone with oneself. Solitude is a disappearing art. Even by themselves most people are never alone; never away from the radio waves of the many electronics in every hand, ear and eyesight. They have forgotten how to be quiet. How to think. How to be alone.

I haven't. So instead of lamenting my seemingly "anti-social" behavior... This year I will try to embrace it.

We all should. Each year may be an accumulation of all the resolutions you've ever had- the better of the worse for them- but sometimes we must remember that our true nature is not entirely corrupted with bad habits.

This year, resolve to be you.

(The Last) Fairy Friday No. 25

2010-01-01T09:03:00.000-08:00

*The fairy pictures are the artwork of Ciceily Barker. The mosaic was created by me.

(This is indeed my last fairy friday. It has been a fun weekly routine of mine, but having made it through a whole year, I think it is time for something new.)

Happy New Year!

2009-12-31T08:58:00.001-08:00

For last year's words belong to last year's language
And next year's words await another voice.
And to make an end is to make a beginning.
~T.S. Eliot, "Little Gidding"

Best Wishes

2009-12-26T08:00:00.001-08:00

Hope everyone had a lovely Christmas... Anyone wake up to snow in the morning?

(Merry) Fairy Friday No. 24

2009-12-24T18:32:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas

2009-12-24T08:11:00.000-08:00

"Christmas - that magic blanket that wraps itself about us, that something so intangible that it is like a fragrance. It may weave a spell of nostalgia. Christmas may be a day of feasting, or of prayer, but always it will be a day of remembrance - a day in which we think of everything we have ever loved." ~Augusta E. Rundel

My Favorite Tradition... Baking Day!

2009-12-23T16:38:00.001-08:00

I've had quite the lovely day... Been baking morning till dusk with my mother and sister to create our gifts for families and friends. Though we plan to make more, we've decided to throw in the dish towel (literally) and call it a day. Those on our nice list will receive these delicous boxes which contain: frosted star sugar cookies, truffles, sprinkled brownie bites, and mini cherry-topped cheesecakes. What are you all baking this year?

Christmas in Switzerland

2009-12-22T06:55:00.000-08:00

“A tinkling of a silver bell heralds the arrival of Christkindli - a white clad angel, with a face veil held in place by a jeweled crown. The tree candles are lit as she enters each house and hands out presents from the basket held by her child helpers.

The week before Christmas, children dress up and visit homes with small gifts. Bell ringing has become a tradition, and each village competes with the next when calling people to midnight mass. After the service, families gather to share huge homemade doughnuts called ringli and hot chocolate.

In Switzerland, the Chlausjagen Festival or Feast of St. Nichohlas is celebrated at dusk on 6 December with a procession of "lifeltrager' wearing gigantic illuminated lanterns in the shape of a Bishop's mitre on their heads.

The Swiss wait for the Christ child called Christkindli, to arrive with gifts for all in his reindeer-drawn sleigh.

In Switzerland, during the holiday season the Star Singers or Sternsingers dressed as the Three Kings parade through the streets of cities and towns singing Christmas songs.

In Zurich, Santa visits in a special fairytale tram and gives the children a ride through the city, singing songs with them and sharing a basket full of sweets.”

Please note: Throughout this week, if anyone finds error in what I post about foreign tradition, please inform me so that I may correct it. I am just finding this information via the internet and hope not to offend anyone.

Christmas in Sweden

2009-12-20T06:48:00.000-08:00

"In Sweden, the Christmas season begins December 13, the feast of Saint Lucia. The youngest/eldest (it varied on it website) daughter in each family poses as the fourth-century Sicilian martyr. Clothed in a red-sashed white dress, an evergreen wreath with seven lighted candles perched upon her head, the young Swedish girl begins the day by carrying coffee and buns to family members in their rooms. Boys dress as "star boys" in long white shirts and pointed hats. Everyone thanks the Queen of Light for bringing hope during the darkest time of the year.

Christmas trees are usually found in Swedish homes two days before Christmas. Decoration may include candles, apples, Swedish flags, small gnomes wearing red tasseled caps, straw ornaments. The houses may filled with red tulips and smell like pepparkakor, which is a heart-star, or goat-shaped gingerbread biscuit.

After Christmas Eve dinner, a friend or family member dresses up as tomte or Christmas gnome. The tomte, unlike Santa Claus is supposed to live under the floorboards of the house or barn and ride a straw goat. The make-believe tomte, wearing a white beard and dressed in red robes, distributes gifts from his sack. Many are given with funny rhyme that hints at the contents."

Please note: Throughout this week, if anyone finds error in what I post about foreign tradition, please inform me so that I may correct it. I am just finding this information via the internet and hope not to offend anyone.

Christmas in Finland

2009-12-19T08:08:00.000-08:00

“Scandinavia is the source for most Yule log traditions that survive today. In Finland, where one-third of the population lives above the Arctic Circle, the dark, cold winters naturally inspired traditions involving warmth and light. Originally the Yule log was an entire tree, carefully selected and brought into the house with grand ritual. Scandinavians would place the tree’s trunk into the fireplace, then slowly feed it though, making it endure until the last day. Today, the Christmas tree is set up on Christmas Eve. Apples and other fruits, candies, paper flags, cotton and tinsel are used as decorations, and candles are used for lighting it.

A sheaf of grain is often tied to a pole, together with nuts and seeds and placed in the garden for the birds. Many of the peasants will not eat their Christmas dinner until the birds have had their dinner.The meal was begun as soon as the first star appeared in the sky. The main dish of the dinner is boiled codfish served snowy white and fluffy, with allspice, boiled potatoes, and cream sauce. Also on the menu is roast suckling pig or a roasted fresh ham, mashed potatoes, and vegetables.

Christmas Day services in the churches begin at six in the morning. It is a day for family visits and reunions. During all these days the people keep wishing each other a "Merry Yule."

Please note: Throughout this week, if anyone finds error in what I post about foreign tradition, please inform me so that I may correct it. I am just finding this information via the internet and hope not to offend anyone.

(Merry) Fairy Friday No. 23

2009-12-18T05:50:00.000-08:00

Christmas in Denmark

2009-12-17T05:45:00.000-08:00

"The icon of Christmas in Denmark, is the mischievous elf called Nisse. He is said to live in the lofts of old farmhouses and enjoys playing jokes. He wears gray woolen clothes, a red bonnet, red stockings and white clogs. Families leave him a bowl of rice pudding or porridge on Christmas Eve to keep his jokes within limits. Usually though he is kind and helpful helping out on the farms and being especially good to the children.

They take much pride making their own decorations with bright paper, bits of wood and straw. The parents secretly decorate the tree, and children are not permitted to see the tree until dinner on Christmas Eve. The tree is then lit up and families gather around to sing carols and hymns.

Each Sunday in Advent, guests are invited to join in the lighting of the candles on the Advent crown. Adults drink a warming mixture of red wine, spices and raisins, and children drink a sweet fruit juice, like strawberry. Everybody eats small cakes of batter which have been cooked over the fire in a special pan, and dusted with icing sugar.

In Denmark Christmas Eve is called Juleaften and is the biggest occasion of the year. Parties go on all night, with traditional prune-stuffed roast goose, red cabbage, fried pastries, and cinnamon-laced rice pudding called Grod."

Please note: Throughout this week, if anyone finds error in what I post about foreign tradition, please inform me so that I may correct it. I am just finding this information via the internet and hope not to offend anyone.

Christmas in Other Countries

2009-12-16T05:33:00.000-08:00

I just love tradition. No matter how small or silly or unique... traditions keep history alive and the world waiting and excited. And that's why I'm devoting a whole week to learning about Christmases in countries beside the USA. Starting with...

Germany!

There, the Christmas season begins four Sundays before Christmas Day when families gather to light the Adventskranz or Advent Wreath. However, the real celebration starts on the 6th of December, St. Nicholas Day, known there as "Nikolaustag". On the night of 5th December children put their shoe or boot outside the door. According to a German legend, the spirit of St. Nicholas, the patron saint of children, goes from house to house on this night carrying a book of sins in which all the actions of the year of all children are written. It is said that St. Nicholas fills the shoes of all good kids with delicious treats and places twigs in the shoes of all naughty children. Germany is also the origin of the Advent Calendar (as I mentioned before) and the Christmas Tree.

Please note: Throughout this week, if anyone finds error in what I post about foreign tradition, please inform me so that I may correct it. I am just finding this information via the internet and hope not to offend anyone.

The Origin of Gingerbread

2009-12-15T06:08:00.000-08:00

I absolutely LOVE gingerbread. Whether it be in the form of a man, house, cake, loaf, cookie... It's all so deliciously warm, spicy and holiday-esque. With this in mind, I set out to learn it's origin and thought I should share it with you...

"The origin of Gingerbread dates back date back to ancient times when the spice, ginger, was known for its medicinal properties, often used for curing stomach aches.

Small gingerbread cakes adorned with symbols of the sun were made to celebrate the Winter Solstice in pre-Christian Europe.

Catholic monks baked gingerbread for special religious celebrations. The cakes were constructed in specific designs depicting saints and religious motifs. The early carvings were made with a large and elaborately carved "cookie board" that impressed the pattern onto a stiff rolled dough.

Gingerbreads slowly became popular across Europe and Britain. The recipe was changing, becoming lighter. In 1573, treacle (molasses) was used instead of honey.Then butter and eggs became popular additions to enrich the mixture.

The first gingerbread man is credited to the court of Queen Elizabeth I, who impressed important visitors with charming gingerbread portraits.

The tradition of baking a Gingerbread house began in Germany after the Brothers Grimm published their collection of German fairy tales in the early 1800s. Among the tales was the story of Hansel and Gretel, who came upon a house made of bread and sugar decorations. It is possible however that brothers Grimm were actually writing about something that may have already existed."

-http://www.kidsturncentral.com/holidays/christmas/gingerbreadtrad.htm

Musical Monday No. 5

2009-12-14T03:57:00.000-08:00

Song: City
Band: Ellington
Because: It is my favorite song at the moment. It's soft and sweet and oh-so romantic. I could marry this boy if he'd promise to sing me to sleep every night...

Christmas Movie Favorites

2009-12-13T08:10:00.000-08:00

Among the shopping and baking and wrapping and decorating, there is such bliss in cozying up on the couch and watching traditional Christmas movies with my family. These are my must-sees every year... What are yours?

Eloise At Christmas Time

Miracle on Thirty-Fourth Street

A Charlie Brown Christmas

Serendipity

The Holiday

The Romance of Rain

2009-12-12T08:24:00.000-08:00

I do not know about you, but the rain seems so very romantic to me. It is soft and sweet and new and fresh... Each pure drop slips from the heavens onto our cheeks in delicate angel kisses... And as I woke up this morning to a lovely downpour, it is my inspiration for today, as it was for all the true romantics in these photos...

(Merry) Fairy Friday No. 22

2009-12-11T05:41:00.000-08:00

Christmas Wreath

2009-12-10T03:29:00.000-08:00

Perhaps the best Yuletide decoration is being wreathed in smiles. ~Author Unknown

Christmas Candle

2009-12-09T03:26:00.000-08:00

A Christmas candle is a lovely thing;
It makes no noise at all,
But softly gives itself away.
~Eva Logue

Gift Wrapping

2009-12-08T03:12:00.000-08:00

"Christmas is the season for kindling the fire of hospitality in the hall, the genial flame of charity in the heart." ~Washington Irving

I've been volunteering with the PACE program in spirit of the Christmas season, holding the job of gift wrapper and I must say I have become quite wonderful at it. But while the gifts at the stores that I do look nice in their shiny papers, I cannot help but feel guilty. Although it may appear anti-christmas, I don't approve of wrapping paper. Think about it- yes the presents look lovely all wrapped up- for about two seconds. Then they're ripped up and on the floor without a second thought. Isn't Christmas about what's on the inside, anyway?
To save trees as I do, here are my suggestions...
1) Newspaper. This is what I use on most gifts. It's free (which is important during this recession) and it doesn't waste any paper.
2) Old sheet music. If you are a musician who has piles of sheet music you don't play anymore, they make lovely wrapping for jewelry and small trinkets.
3) Fabric- old scraps or new fabric. By purchasing a yard of a pretty Christmas fabric you can create a lovely tradition in your family by using it year after year.

Musical Monday No. 4 (Holiday)

2009-12-07T05:51:00.000-08:00

If you like remixed versions of classic holiday music, I recommend...

Album: Let It Snow Baby... Let It Reindeer
Band: Relient K
Because: I think it's the perfect modern version of these old songs. Some are a bit more rock n' roll than the originals, but don't be deterred, there are quite a few slow, pretty ones, such as Sleigh Ride.

(Merry) Fairy Friday No. 21

2009-12-04T02:02:00.000-08:00

My Secret Sweet Tooth

2009-12-03T06:15:00.000-08:00

Now normally I am a very healthy person. I like my veggies and shun prepackaged food... But all the year round I wait in a mixture of desperate want and fear of my holiday weakness... My kryptonite in a pretty paper... And once again, it has arrived and I cannot deny my desire.

Beware:

I'm Dreaming Of A White Christmas

2009-12-02T05:49:00.000-08:00

Advent Calendars

2009-12-01T05:51:00.000-08:00

All year long I wait for the beginning of December so that I may bring out my advent calendar. I love the idea of counting down the days. And we've been counting Decembers for a long time... This tradition began in Germany more than 150 years ago. And it's grown so that there are so many different types of advent calendars... Some are paper, with pictures behind, others hold chocolates behind each door, and some, like mine, have little cupboards for various tiny treasures. Is the Advent Calendar part of your traditions?

Musical Monday No. 3

2009-11-30T05:43:00.000-08:00

Song: We Are Birds
Band: Brighten
Because: It's beautifully romantic and light.

"We're so dark by night, I am lost
directions getting faded
remember what you're taught
she's so bright, i'll use her as light
she's so much more than decoration

She can fly, and shes no angel in the sky
she's a witch but she knows better not to take me when she flys
and i miss how she looks me in the eyes
oh this sounds like desperation

if you're a bird then i'm a bird
but if you cant fly then neither will i
cause then love is not the right time, to die

her wings are spread,
she's stuck here on the ground
she's not heavy, she's my world
i'll carry her around
i hear her breathing, that's my favorite sound

if you're a bird then i'm a bird
but if you cant fly then neither will i
cause then love is not the right time to die
we still have our whole life to be with you and im done
and make this life a good one."

10 Poems To Last A Lifetime (No. 8)

2009-11-29T13:12:00.000-08:00

Glad I finally got around to reading this before the season is over!

John Keats- To Autumn

SEASON of mists and mellow fruitfulness,
Close bosom-friend of the maturing sun;
Conspiring with him how to load and bless
With fruit the vines that round the thatch-eves run;
To bend with apples the moss'd cottage-trees,
And fill all fruit with ripeness to the core;
To swell the gourd, and plump the hazel shells
With a sweet kernel; to set budding more,
And still more, later flowers for the bees,
Until they think warm days will never cease,
For Summer has oe'r-brimm'd their clammy cells.

Who hath not seen thee oft amid thy store?
Sometimes whoever seeks abroad may find
Thee sitting careless on a granary floor,
Thy hair soft-lifted by the winnowing wind;
Or on a half-reap�d furrow sound asleep,
Drows�d with the fume of poppies, while thy hook
Spares the next swath and all its twined flowers:
And sometimes like a gleaner thou dost keep
Steady thy laden head across a brook;
Or by a cyder-press, with patient look,
Thou watchest the last oozings hours by hours.

Where are the songs of Spring? Ay, where are they?
Think not of them, thou hast thy music too,—
While barred clouds bloom the soft-dying day,
And touch the stubble plains with rosy hue;
Then in a wailful choir the small gnats mourn
Among the river sallows, borne aloft
Or sinking as the light wind lives or dies;
And full-grown lambs loud bleat from hilly bourn;
Hedge-crickets sing; and now with treble soft
The red-breast whistles from a garden-croft;
And gathering swallows twitter in the skies.

Fairy Friday No. 20

2009-11-26T08:36:00.000-08:00

The morns are meeker than they were,
The nuts are getting brown;
The berry's cheek is plumper,
The rose is out of town.
The maple wears a gayer scarf,
The field a scarlet gown.
Lest I should be old-fashioned,
I'll put a trinket on.
Emily Dickinson
Nature XXVII, Autumn.

"If the only prayer you said in your whole life was, "thank you," that would suffice.

2009-11-26T08:31:00.000-08:00

I am thankful...

"For each new morning with its light,
For rest and shelter of the night,
For health and food, for love and friends,
For everything Thy goodness sends."

Musical Monday No. 2

2009-11-23T06:44:00.000-08:00

Song: Swim
Band: Jack's Mannequin
Because: It keeps me going when I don't want to.

"You gotta swim
Swim for your life
Swim for the music that saves you
When you're not so sure you'll survive
You gotta swim
And swim when it hurts
The whole world is watching
You haven't come this far to fall off the earth

The currents will pull you
Away from your love
Just keep your head above

I found a tidal wave begging to tear down the dawn
Memories like bullets they fired at me from a gun
A crack in the armor
I swim for brighter days
Despite the absence of sun
Choking on salt water
I'm not giving in
I swim

You've gotta swim
Through nights that wont end
Swim for your families
Your lovers
Your sisters and brothers
And friends
You've gotta swim
Through wars without cause
Swim for the lost politicians
Who don't see their greed as a flaw

You gotta swim
Swim in the dark
There's no shame in drifting
Feel the tide shifting
And wait for the spark
You've gotta swim
Don't let yourself sink
Just find the horizon
I promise you it's not as far as you think..."

Fairy Friday No. 19

2009-11-20T06:13:00.000-08:00

"No Spring nor Summer Beauty hath such grace
As I have seen in one Autumnal face."
John Donne

10 Poems To Last A Lifetime (No. 5)

2009-11-17T17:38:00.000-08:00

I very much relate to this poem at this time... I have been rather stressed lately and it is often those random smiles and niceties that save my day.

For the Sake of Strangers
By: Dorianne Laux

No matter what the grief, its weight,
we are obliged to carry it.
We rise and gather moments, the dull strength
that pushes us through crowds.
And then the young boy gives me directions
so avidly. A woman holds the glass door open,
waits patiently for my empty body to pass through.
All day it continues, each kindness
reaching toward another- a stranger
singing to no one as I pass on the path, trees
offering their blossoms, a retarded child
who lifts his almond eyes and smiles.
Somehow they always find me, seem even
to be waiting, determined to keep me
from myself, from the thing that calls to me
as it must have once called to them –
this temptation to step off the edge
and fall weightless, away from the world.

Musical Monday No. 1

2009-11-16T06:20:00.000-08:00

Mondays have been given a bad rep... And for that reason I've decided to start Musical Mondays. At the beginning of each week I'll post a stanza (of maybe the whole set) of lyrics from some of my favorite songs. These lyrics will be sort of my theme song for the week. They are meant to inspire you... make you smile... or laugh... or think... or sing along.

This week I choose...

Song: One Day I Slowly Floated Away
Band: Eisley
Because: There is something truly special about this song. I can't describe it- you just know when you hear it that it's different and beautiful.

"...One day I slowly floated away
All the war horses wore rubber bands
To hide their hooves from sinking sand
The commander in charge was hoping that
their destiny was not to die

Wake up in the morning
I shall wake up and so shall you
And I wake up, the sun is beautiful
And it is warming you and I
Fragile as we lie

Hard to forsee the future
Our bodies are growing thin
Glimpsing the peeling paint of
The nurse's ivory chin
You got a lot of nerve coming here
Your eyes are beating
Rhythms way
Faster than the speeding bullet
That took the life of your radio...

And in the corner chair, soft and soap-scented
My darling cries apologies
We foresee the mercy
that's been shown my young limbs
Will not go unthanked or unseen..."

Inspiring Video- The Girl Effect

2009-11-15T15:25:00.000-08:00

I saw this video awhile ago at a conference for a community service program I'm in and have been looking for it ever since. It is a simple video... but for some reason it touches me deeply. There is something so inspirational about it... I love that it is called The Girl Effect. The world is in our hands.

Dear Jack

2009-11-14T09:21:00.000-08:00

I posted about a band called Jack's Mannequin a few days ago... Well, I just recently watched a documentary on the lead singer, Andrew McMahon, on his journey with leukemia. The movie made me bawl. He was so positive throughout his sickness. Everyone should check it out for a little reminder on how precious life is. And if you're feeling generous, visit his website for the foundation Dear Jack that donates money to cancer programs and make a contribution. I'm not sure what I'm going to do just yet, but I know I have to be involved. I've never felt so deeply touched.

Oodlekadoodle

2009-11-14T08:24:00.000-08:00

I just entered to win a $25 giveaway at Oodlekadoodle Primitives!
And not just to anywhere... but Target! I could get lost in there. Especially in the new Target Greatland here. If I won I would buy some winter scarfs and gloves. What would you buy?

Fairy Friday No. 18

2009-11-13T04:58:00.000-08:00

"And as the season come and go, here's something you might like to know ... there are fairies everywhere under bushes, in the air, playing games just like you play, singing through their busy day. So listen, touch, and look around -- in the air and on the ground. And if you watch all nature's things, you might just see a fairy's wing."

Cereal

2009-11-12T05:34:00.000-08:00

Like religion, politics, and family planning, cereal is not a topic to be brought up in public. It's too controversial. -Erma Bombeck

I'm always interested to hear what kind of cereal a person favors. Is it a wholesome bran? A sugary flake? I think that the cereal one eats says a lot about them. Like rice krispies. They may appear sort of bland and boring (especially in comparison to their chocolatey or fruity cousins). But undercover of a reliable reputation... Snap. Crackle. Pop. They're a bit on the wild side. Maybe just like their consumers?

I, myself, am Kix addict. I am often teased about rehab... Unable to function without my daily Kix Fix... But can you blame me? Kix is the perfect cereal. Fairly healthy, crunchy little balls, light happy color...

So tell me.

What's your favorite cereal?

10 Poems To Last A Lifetime (No. 4)

2009-11-11T05:08:00.000-08:00

Maybe you noticed that I skipped straight from the first poem to the fourth... Honestly- don't feel like your missing something. The ones in between are not as profound as I hoped. However, this one did strike my fancy- it seemed right for this season in particular. I really love the last stanza especially.

Tell me what you think...

Sunset- By Rainer Maria Rilke

Slowly the west reaches for clothes of new colours
which it passes to a row of ancient trees.
You look, and soon these two worlds both leave you,
one part climbs toward heaven, one sinks to earth,

leaving you, not really belonging to either,
not so helplessly dark as that house that is silent,
not so unswervingly given to the eternal as that thing
that turns to a star each night and climbs —

leaving you (it is impossible to untangle the threads)
your own life, timid and standing high and growing,
so that, sometimes blocked in, sometimes reaching out,
one moment your life is a stone in you, and the next, a star.

Hammers and Strings (A Lullaby) -And A Tribute

2009-11-10T06:19:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I am overcome with emotion thinking of all those who must suffer through pain and tragedy unlike any I have ever experienced... Many of the friends I have made through blogging fight breast cancer. Women like Renee at Circling My Head and Sherry at Everyday Possibilities... They are beautiful people. Hearing the song "Hammers and Strings (A Lullaby)" by the band Jack's Mannequin, though aimed more at a woman with a mental disorder than cancer, always breaks my heart for those who are so strong, despite their bodies' weaknesses.

I urge you to check out the song on iTunes, but for now, here's a video of it live from YouTube and a bit of the lyrics...

Hammer And Strings (A Lullaby)

"...Come on, write me a song
Give me something to trust
Just promise you won't let it be
Just the keys that you touch.

Give me something to believe in,
A breath from the breathing
So write it down,
I don't think that I'll close my eyes
'Cause lately I'm not dreaming
So what's the point in sleeping?
It's just that at night,
I've got nowhere to hide
So I write you a lullaby
A lullaby..."

Hmm.... For some reason the video goes over my About Me... Oh well. I leave it for a bit and then take it off. Sorry! I'm trying to get the hang of this video thing...

Christmas Blog Party

2009-11-09T16:56:00.000-08:00

Just joined in on this party at Bella Dreams! Make sure to come back here in December for a visit! Also- I know it's a few weeks ago, but I'm looking forward to December... Just as I did everyday posts for Halloween, I will be doing a month of Christmas! Can't wait!

10 Poems To Last A Lifetime (No. 1)

2009-11-09T05:42:00.000-08:00

In need of a bit of inspiration and pretty things to float around in my head, I did a wide search for 'poetry' at the library and came across the book "Ten Poems To Last a Lifetime." The title made me feel it as if it were something worth reading. I've been too busy to look at it, until I came across it yesterday and, having some free time, I decided to try it. I'm only on the first poem and I feel better... My creativity has been nurtured and I have thought a little of life as a whole, rather than life RIGHT NOW as I have been lately.
Because I think a petite dose of pondering is healthy...

Here is Poem No. 1

My Life - By Billy Collins

Sometimes I see it as a straight line
drawn with a pencil and a ruler
transecting the circle of the world

or as a finger piercing
a smoke ring, casual, inquisitive,

but then the sun will come out
or the phone will ring
and I will cease to wonder

if it is one thing,
a large ball of air and memory,
or many things,
a string of small farming towns,
a dark road winding through them.

Let us say it is a field
I have been hoeing every day,
hoeing and singing,
then going to sleep in one of its furrows,

or now that it is more than half over,
a partially open door,
rain dripping from the eaves.

Like yours, it could be anything,
a nest with one egg,
a hallway that leads to a thousand rooms—
whatever happens to float into view
when I close my eyes

or look out a window
for more than a few minutes,
so that some days I think
it must be everything and nothing at once.

But this morning, sitting up in bed,
wearing my black sweater and my glasses,
the curtains drawn and the windows up,

I am a lake, my poem is an empty boat,
and my life is the breeze that blows
through the whole scene

stirring everything it touches—
the surface of the water, the limp sail,
even the heavy, leafy trees along the shore.

TOMS Shoes

2009-11-07T14:02:00.000-08:00

I'm in love with TOMS shoes. They're crazy-comfy, super cute, go with everything, and most of all, are shoes with a purpose- and not just a guy-getting purpose. A life-saving purpose. The creator, Blake Mycoskie, is one of my most-esteemed idols. Check out the website to read his story: http://www.tomsshoes.com/content.asp?tid=271

Fairy Friday No. 17

2009-11-06T05:16:00.000-08:00

Farewell gay Summer! now the changing wind
That Autumn brings commands thee to retreat;
It fades the roses which thy temples bind,
And the green sandals which adorn thy feet.

Now flies with thee the walk at eventide,
That favouring hour to rapt enthusiasts dear;
When most they love to seek the mountain side,
And mark the pomp of twilight hastening near.

Then fairy forms around the poet throng,
On every cloud a glowing charm he sees....
Sweet Evening, these delights to thee belong:....
But now, alas! comes Autumn's chilling breeze,
And early Night, attendant on its sway,
Bears in her envious veil sweet Fancy's hour away.

-Amelia Opie

A Secret Garden

2009-11-04T15:08:00.000-08:00

Dickon: The animals tell me all their secrets.
Mary: [pointing to the Robin] He wouldn't tell you my secret, would he?
Dickon: About what, Miss Mary?
Mary: A garden. I've stolen a garden. But it may already be dead, I don't know.
Dickon: I'll know.
Mary: Promise you won't tell anyone?
Dickon: Promise.
Mary: No one?
Dickon: Not a soul.

Lately I've been wishing for a garden... A flower garden, a green garden, a secret garden... It doesn't matter what kind. I just want to sit among the flowers, soak up their color and life... Breathe their freshly exhaled air. It's not so much a need to escape, as much as a desire to be by myself. Do you understand?

A Bit of Leftover Halloween Spirit

2009-11-02T15:36:00.000-08:00

I know it's November now... but I just uploaded my Halloween pictures and wanted to show everyone my pumpkin! (It's the one on the left.) He's sadly beginning to rot, but I still love him, despite the flies...

An Honor

2009-11-01T08:02:00.000-08:00

My dear friend at Madeleine's Wunderkammer has nominated me for this blog award! I feel so honored. Thank you!

Winning this award involves two things:
1) Nominating three blogs for it.
2) Answering a few questions about myself.

The blogs I will be nominating are...
1) Magical Whisper
2) From Another Time
3) Gingerbread Crumbs and Company

And here is the Q&A:

What's your current obsession? Boots- in particular rain boots. I've been on the hunt for a pair of cute ones for a while now. However, I'm also looking for some comfy, cozy brown flats boots.

What's your zodiac sign? Taurus- and I am indeed, quite as bull-headed, stubborn and impatient as it implies.

What's your latest purchase? A loose, tom-boyish black and white thickly-striped shirt. It buttons up at the top with big black buttons, which are also on the mid-length sleeves, and is made of an extremely thin, almost transparent material. It's crazy comfortable and the perfect mix of masculine and feminine.

What do you think about the girl who gave you this award? She's very sweet and leaves such nice comments.

What did you last have for dinner? A homemade spicy shredded-chicken black bean soup, with tomalitos on the side- which is a sweet mashed corn dish that I discovered at the restaurant Chevy's.

What's your favourite decade? Well... I can't pick one in particular... But to be alive any time during Jane Austen's age is a dream of mine.

What are your must haves for summer? A flattering bathing suit and about a thousand books to read- seaside or poolside.

What would you love to be able to do? I'd love to be able to save the world- or just be able to travel around it (preferably on my own private plane).

What is your favourite piece in your closet? Hmm.. What a tough question! It's like a parent trying to pick a favorite child. Well... Dress-wise it would have to be a black dress (one of many) that has little floral prints scattered on it. The top part is sort of heart shaped and like a corset in the front, and is backless. The bottom goes out it layers. It's the most flattering, fun dress I've ever owned. And I can't forget shoes- I own a pair of black kitten heels, made of thin leather all laced together that have a large flower bursting from the woven pattern. They're hard to describe properly.. Maybe I'll post a picture sometime.

What's your dream job? At the moment- A fashion magazine editor. I would get to travel the world, be in control, write, be around fashion and culture.. Everything I want, combined.

What's your favourite magazine? I'd probably have to say Boho. It's an eco-friendly fashion magazine. Expensive, but beautiful.

What do you consider a fashion no-no? While I think that leggings-as-pants can be very cute, it only works on a very select few body sizes, and only paired with the correct clothing items. Otherwise, wearing just leggings often makes the wearer look quite unfortunate.

Describe your personal style: My style is a product of my closet- a bit of this and that and everything I've accumulated over the last few years. I love to dress up. That is my true style- feminine; dresses and leggings and long necklaces and great shoes. However, this sort of style is expensive and not widely excepted in my everyday environment. So, more casually, I am a girl in jeans wearing TOMS shoes and band tees, or loose button-up shirts.

Who is your favourite Beatle? I was not alive during the Beatles reign and am therefore not very acquainted with them individually. I love their music and think they're all quite cute though...

What are you proud of? My body. While I more often hate it than love it, it is healthy and enduring. It loves fruits and veggies and exercise. I take extremely good care of it and know it will last me for a very long time.

Etsy Sale- Free Shipping!

2009-10-31T08:53:00.000-07:00

My entire ETSY SHOP is now on sale- no shipping! Check them out and have a Happy Halloween!

(Scary) Fairy Friday No. 16

2009-10-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

Halloween Facts and Folklore

2009-10-29T05:13:00.000-07:00

For most people Halloween goes no deeper than candy and costumes. However, this holiday dates back thousands of years. Here are a few facts about it Halloween and everything that makes it magical...

-Pumpkins are grown all over the world except Antarctica- even in Alaska.
-Pumpkins seeds are believed to have originated in North America. Seeds in Mexico date back 7000 years.
-The word "pumpkin" comes from the 17th Old French word "pompion" and the Greek word "pepon" meaning "melon."
-The custom of trick-or-treating may have come from a European tradition called "souling." On November 2, All Souls Day, early Christians would walk through villages asking for "soul cakes."
-Orange and black are the colors of Halloween because they are symbols of the ripe harvest and dark magic.
-Black cats are considered bad luck because in the Middle Ages people believed they were witches in disguise and would cast a spell on you.

Candle Superstions

2009-10-28T06:21:00.000-07:00

While I am not terribly superstitious myself, I find reading about why certain things are believed to possess bad luck or good is very interesting. Here's a bit about candles...

"Beware the candle that blows out during a ceremony. It's a warning that evil is near. Three candles in a row bring bad luck. A candle inside a jack-o-lantern on Halloween guards against evil spirits. If you look in the mirror by candlelight you many find the souls of the deceased. Use a pink candle against evil spirits, a red candle to bring love, or a black candle to curse someone."

-From a wonderful book called "The Little Big Book of Chills and Thrills"

Cinderella Skeleton

2009-10-27T06:14:00.000-07:00

"Cinderella Skeleton!
The rarest gem the world has seen!
You make each day a Halloween!"

I love remakes of the classic fairytale stories... Especially creepy Halloween-y ones! This is "Cinderella Skeleton" by Robert D. San Souci.

Pumpkin Cupcake Recipe

2009-10-26T05:56:00.000-07:00

These are super easy- I mean common, they involve a cake mix. Normally I would NEVER use a cake mix, but, you know me, I'm a sucker for all thing pumpkin so I had to try them.

I'm glad I did.

Makes 24 cupcakes
Hands-On Time: 15m
Total Time: 40m

Ingredients

1 18.5-ounce box yellow cake mix (plus the ingredients called for in the package directions)
1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1 15-ounce can pumpkin puree
Your choice of topping. In the picture the cupcake has cream cheese frosting and candy corn, but because I like neither of those and I ADORE butter-cream frosting, so I made that instead.

Directions

Heat oven to 350° F. Line two 12-cup muffin tins with paper liners. Prepare the cake mix as directed but with the following change: Add the pumpkin pie spice and substitute the can of pumpkin puree for the water called for in the package directions.
Divide the batter among the prepared muffin tins and bake until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean, 18 to 22 minutes. Let cool.

A Halloween Moon

2009-10-25T08:16:00.000-07:00

Every year is always an anxious wait to see if there will be a Halloween Moon... This year, it appears that there will be no full, orange moon, but alas, it will still but just as magical.

"There is something haunting in the light of the moon; it has all the dispassionateness of a disembodied soul, and something of its inconceivable mystery." ~Joseph Conrad

"There are nights when the wolves are silent and only the moon howls." ~George Carlin

"A gypsy fire is on the hearth,
Sign of the carnival of mirth;
Through the dun fields and from the glade
Flash merry folk in masquerade,
For this is Hallowe'en!
Stir the fire till it lowe
How like a queen comes forth the lonely Moon
From the slow opening curtains of the clouds
Walking in beauty to her midnight throne!"
~George Croly

"Nothing beats a haunted moonlit night on All Hallows Eve.... And on this fatal night, at this witching time, the starless sky laments black and unmoving. The somber hues of an ominous, dark forest are suddenly illuminated under the emerging face of the full moon."
~Kim Elizabeth

Witches

2009-10-24T08:20:00.000-07:00

There are so many different renditions of witches...

There's the traditional old witch with a black cat...

With a white cat...
A good , kind witch...

A cute little witch...Witches who gather for spells...

And even pretty witches...

But no matter what you believe about a witches appearance, everyone believes that they are always out a All Hallow's Eve...

"Tonight is the night when dead leaves fly,
Like witches on switches across the sky."

"Witch and ghost make merry on this last of dear October’s days."

"Tis now the very witching time of night,
When churchyards yawn and hell itself breathes out
Contagion to this world."
~William Shakespeare

(Scary) Fairy Friday No. 15

2009-10-23T06:36:00.000-07:00

Cute Clownish Costume Kiddies

2009-10-22T06:06:00.000-07:00

I absolutely ADORE these costumes. If I hadn't already figured out mine, I would make one like this... maybe next year. The kids in the last two pictures are just too cute!

A Bit of Black and Orange Fun

2009-10-21T06:03:00.000-07:00

A Bit of Halloween Humor...

2009-10-20T05:53:00.000-07:00

My Favorite Holiday Decoration

2009-10-19T06:04:00.000-07:00

When I was little, I loved the holidays. What child doesn't? And while I loved all the things that the other kiddies loved about Halloween; the candy, the dressing up, the spooky stories; there was one thing I waited all year round for... One thing I couldn't wait to bring from the Halloween boxes in the garage... And that one thing, is this little kitty.

I'm not sure what exactly it is that draws me to my black cat. I mean, he wasn't even meant for playing- he's got sand in his bottom so that he can sit upright. And I'm also allergic to cats, so it's not like I have a thing for them at all... I just love him. Unpacking him from the boxes is like seeing a relative I haven't seen in years, or a friend who moved away and has come back for a visit. His simple black shape and tiny little face... We've been together for as many Halloweens as I can remember... And I know he'll be here for all the ones to come.

Do you have a favorite Halloween decoration?

Halloween Party Giveaway!

2009-10-16T21:19:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my party! I hope you are having a spooktacular time blog-hopping today. I just love visiting everyone's pages, all spirited and decked out for this magically dark holiday. Just two more weeks until Halloween is finally here!

In honor of this wonderful party, put on my the amazing Vanessa at A Fanciful Twist, I will be hosting a giveaway. If you would like to win this little felt pumpkin guy I made, comment on this post. To be entered twice, follow my blog. (If you are already a follower you will automatically be given the second entry.)
The giveaway will be open until around 5:00 on the evening of October 18. The winner will be announced that night.

To purchase others like him, such as this ghost...

Or these little shadow boxes...

Visit my Etsy store:

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5963141

(Scary) Fairy Friday No. 14

2009-10-16T06:02:00.000-07:00

When witches go riding,
and black cats are seen,
the moon laughs and whispers,
‘tis near Halloween.

Halloween Midnight Ball

2009-10-15T20:42:00.001-07:00

Join in on the fun!

http://freakylittledolls.blogspot.com/

Halloween Party On Saturday!

2009-10-15T05:32:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to stop by for a giveaway on Saturday!

A Halloween Guest...

2009-10-14T06:10:00.000-07:00

While I've always kept a soft spot in my heart for Charlie Brown, it is Linus' loving faith that makes the Halloween TV Special about the Great Pumpkin so delightful. And for that reason, I'm dedicating this post to him. Thank you, my darling Linus. If only we all had your trust.

And to bring a smile to your faces, here's a few classic lines from the movie:

Linus: He'll come here because I have the most sincere pumpkin patch and he respects sincerity.
Sally Brown: Do you really think he will come?
Linus: Tonight the Great Pumpkin will rise out of the pumpkin patch. He flies through the air and brings toys to all the children of the world.
Sally Brown: That's a good story.
Linus: You don't believe the story of the Great Pumpkin? I thought little girls always believed everything that was told to them. I thought little girls were innocent and trusting.
Sally Brown: Welcome to the 20th century!

[Lucy scoops out the innards of the pumpkin Linus brought]
Linus: [groans] You didn't tell me you were gonna kill it!

Linus: Never jump into a pile of leaves with a wet sucker.

Sally Brown: Do I get to go trick-or-treating this year, big brother?
Charlie Brown: Sure, Sally.
Sally Brown: Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy! How do we do it?
Lucy Van Pelt: All you have to do is walk up to a house, ring the doorbell and say "Tricks or treats."
Sally Brown: Are you sure it's legal?
Lucy Van Pelt: Of course it's legal.
Sally Brown: I wouldn't want to be accused of taking part in a rumble.

Linus: There are three things I have learned never to discuss with people: religion, politics and the Great Pumpkin.

Linus: [to Charlie Brown ] You've heard of the fury of a woman scorned, haven't you?
Charlie Brown: Yeah, I guess I have.
Linus: Well, that's nothing compared to the fury of a woman who has been cheated out of trick-or-treats.

Linus: Have you come to sing pumpkin carols?

ps- Why don't we have pumpkin carols? I'm sure there has to be Halloween songs out there (and I'll check once I'm finished with this post... but really, why don't we sing like at Christmas? I think it's time for a new tradition...)
pps- If you have any pumpkin carols, please feel free to share :)

Another Fall First- Storms!

2009-10-13T16:06:00.000-07:00

Where I live it has been raining all day- and not just the pitter-patter puddle kind, but the drenching, drumming flooded kind. I LOVE IT. In honor, this post is about umbrellas, because without mine today I would have drowned. However, I found so many lovely pictures that I will have to do a few separate posts...

I've decided that I'm in love with umbrella decor! I want some!

Child of Faerie

2009-10-13T06:21:00.000-07:00

When I was little one of my favorite books was "Child of Faerie, Child of Earth," by Jane Yolen. The pictures are illustrated by the talented Jane Dyer and are absolutely beautiful. Although I know it is technically a children's book, I still find it magical and inspiring and urge you to check it out for yourself.

Here is the beginning...

"He was a child of faerie folk,
A child of sky and air,
And she was a child of humankind,
Of earth and toil and care.

They met in the dusk of Hallow's Eve,
When widows grieve
In widow's weave.
They met in the dark of Hallow's Eve,
She had flowers in her hair."

Fall Firsts- Hot Chocolate

2009-10-12T20:20:00.001-07:00

I just experienced the liquid loveliness of my first cup of hot chocolate this fall... I cannot describe to you the elation this fills me with... It's so special, so wonderful and beautiful; that first cup... Don't laugh- hot cocoa is not a joking matter. I like mine more milky than chocolatey and more warm than hot. I will not stand whipping cream, sprinkles, marshmallows, or water in place of milk... The weatherman forecasts a major storm here tomorrow and I'm praying he prediction is true. Off to do a rain dance!

Wandering in the Wilderness...

2009-10-12T06:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I went on a hike. (In truth, I wouldn't call it a hike, so much as a meandering, but you get the idea...) During the fading sunlight hours, I trumped through the bronze-y knee-length grasses, over the hills and through the woods -just like the song- and then on to a bit of a bank, all the while snapping a picture here and there. Here are a few...

The first bridge to cross...

Some darling little fruits...

This tree had the most interesting black balls in it...

A dandelion and cotton piece that looks like it should be on a bunny...

I also met many friends on my "hike." Here's a spooky Halloween kitty. Doesn't she look a bit evil?

I loooove these birds. They're so whimsical...

Pelicans floating lazily...

Doesn't it look like the bee is wearing a flower hat?

This sweet deer was with her mother and sister and kindly stopped for a photo op.

My Etsy Shop!

2009-10-11T16:52:00.000-07:00

Finally I have uploaded my recent Halloween creations to my ETSY shop! Here is a group photo. They are a set of tiny shadow box Halloween ornaments... Hope you like them!

To view them in my ETSY shop, click here.

Sensational Songs Sunday

2009-10-11T08:50:00.000-07:00

The band this week is... Jupiter Sunrise. Doesn't the name create the loveliest colors in your mind? Just imagine how a beautiful a sunrise on Jupiter would be... And the idea of their band isn't the only beautiful thing. The lead female in the band has a stunning voice, as do the males who sing also. Check out the song This Beauty. In this one it is the girl who sings, accompanied by piano.
Here is a sample of the lyrics...
"When your words come too easily for me to believe and this paint goes on too thinly to peel away.
I will find a silver lining sometime.
Blur my vision and I'll be fine. And I'll be fine

Burn the pages of the magazines,
I hate the way they look at me. With every smile and laugh, there's something I will always lack.
And maybe, just maybe,
an imperfected me will not be seen.

When your words burn forever in my mind and those greens and those blues seem too perfect to be true, I will light a fire every time I think to myself,
I will be fine."

Halloween Happily Ever After?

2009-10-10T09:40:00.000-07:00

When one imagines Halloween folklore, they might think of black cats and witches and vampires... the dark creatures of the night. However, there's a lighter side to its superstitions, too. In fact, there are many different romantic aspects to Halloween...

“Just like a ghost, you've been a-hauntin' my dreams,
So I'll propose on Halloween.
Love is kinda crazy with a spooky little girl like you.”

"True love is like ghosts, which everyone talks about but few have seen."

(Scary) Fairy Friday No. 13

2009-10-09T08:05:00.000-07:00

Pixie, kobold, elf, and sprite,
All are on their rounds tonight;
In the wan moon's silver ray,
Thrives their helter-skelter play.
~Joel Benton

A Halloween Cat

2009-10-08T10:59:00.000-07:00

This cat is a little funny-looking, if you ask me. He has a bit of a pig nose. But, alas, I have a thing for black cats in October and he has such nice things to say...

Pumpkin Fudge Recipe

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

This fudge is terribly dangerous. It's sweet, moist, good-smelling, soft, delicious... and fattening. I recommend baking it up, taking a bite and packaging it off for friends. They'll love you for it, you'll still fit into your skinny jeans, and your house will smell AMAZING.

Or you could just eat the whole thing yourself ;)

Ingredients:

3 cups white sugar
1 cup milk
3 tablespoons light corn syrup
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Directions:

Butter or grease one 8x8 inch pan.
In a 3 quart saucepan, mix together sugar, milk, corn syrup, pumpkin and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring constantly. Reduce heat to medium and continue boiling. Do not stir.
When mixture registers 232 degrees F (110 degrees C) on candy thermometer, or forms a soft ball when dropped into cold water, remove pan from heat. Stir in pumpkin pie spice, vanilla, butter and nuts. Cool to lukewarm (110 degrees F or 43 degrees C on candy thermometer).
Beat mixture until it is very thick and loses some of its gloss. Quickly pour into a greased eight-inch pan. When firm cut into 36 squares.

Bright Star

2009-10-06T17:57:00.001-07:00

I am in Love with the movie Bright Star (almost as much as I am in Love with Ben Wishaw, the man who plays Jon Keats.) I have been waiting for what seems like an ETERNITY for this movie to come out. It has not yet come to my town, but it was worth the hour drive to see it at an obscure little theater with taste enough to show it. Please, I beg of you, see it. It's beautiful.

"A thing of beauty is a joy forever: its loveliness increases; it will never pass into nothingness."

"I am certain of nothing but the holiness of the heart's affections, and the truth of imagination."

"The poetry of the earth is never dead."

"Love is my religion - I could die for it."

"What the imagination seizes as beauty must be truth."

And here they are in present day, just as stunning... I love her dress.

*The quotes are the words of John Keats.

Teacup Tuesday

2009-10-06T07:56:00.000-07:00

"Tea tempers the spirit and harmonizes the mind,
dispels lassitude and relieves fatigue;
awakens thought and prevents drowsiness."

-Lu Yu, 5th Century Chinese Poet

I'd love to drink out of any of these cups... Tell me, which is your favorite?
Also, I'm looking for a new type of tea... any recommendations?

To view the blog this wonderful idea originated click here.

Monday with Mutts

2009-10-05T12:31:00.000-07:00

Saw this when I was reading the newspaper today... I agree.

Mischievous Little Pumpkin Heads

2009-10-04T11:52:00.000-07:00

Pumpkin Scones Recipe

2009-10-03T09:28:00.000-07:00

After my last post about pumpkin ice cream I discovered that I am not alone in my love for all things pumpkin-flavored. Here is a recipe for Pumpkin Scones that are to die for. They are moist and cakey and fluffy... my mouth is watering at the thought. I know you will all enjoy them. Have fun baking!

Ingredients

* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 7 tablespoons sugar
* 1 tablespoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
* 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
* 6 tablespoons cold butter
* 1/2 cup canned pumpkin
* 3 tablespoons half-and-half
* 1 large egg

Powderered Sugar Glazze

* 1 cup powdered sugar
* 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
* 2 tablespoons whole milk

Spiced Glaze

* 1 cup powdered sugar
* 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
* 2 tablespoons whole milk
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1 pinch ginger
* 1 pinch ground cloves

Directions

TO MAKE THE SCONES:.

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Lightly oil a baking sheet or line with parchment paper.
Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and spices in a large bowl. Using a pastry knife, fork, or food processor, cut butter into the dry ingredients until mixture is crumbly and no chunks of butter are obvious. Set aside.
In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin, half and half, and egg. Fold wet ingredients into dry ingredients. Form the dough into a ball.
Pat out dough onto a lightly floured surface and form it into a 1-inch thick rectangle (about 9 inches long and 3 inches wide). Use a large knife or a pizza cutter to slice the dough twice through the width, making three equal portions. Cut those three slices diagonally so that you have 6 triangular slices of dough. Place on prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 14–16 minutes. Scones should begin to turn light brown. Place on wire rack to cool.

TO MAKE THE PLAIN GLAZE:.

Mix the powdered sugar and 2 tbsp milk together until smooth.
When scones are cool, use a brush to paint plain glaze over the top of each scone.

AS THAT WHITE GLAZE FIRMS UP, MAKE THE SPICED ICING:.

Combine the ingredient for the spiced icing together. Drizzle this thicker icing over each scone and allow the icing to dry before serving (at least 1 hour). A squirt bottle works great for this, or you can drizzle with a whisk.

Fall MUST Be Here!

2009-10-02T17:40:00.000-07:00

I've just had my first spoonful of pumpkin ice cream for the season... And I'm in Heaven. If you haven't had it, you are living a sad, deprived life. Pumpkin ice cream is my favorite kind. Well... anything pumpkin is my favorite, but there is just something about the ice cream version... Anyway, the moral is: Eat Pumpkin Ice Cream. It will change your life.

Fairy Friday No. 12

2009-10-02T16:14:00.000-07:00

Seeing as Fairy Rings are at the heart of many folklore tales (both as harbingers of mischief and good luck), I knew I must involve them in Fairy Friday... When I was a little girl they were a particular favorite of mine. I'd spend hours gazing at the few mushrooms that would occasionally sprout up in my backyard... The whole idea of them simply fascinates me. I don't care if scientists say they are a product of science rather than magic- I know the truth.

Giveaway- Pay It Forward

2009-10-01T19:20:00.000-07:00

I have been chosen as a new contender in the Pay It Forward chain by Sherry Lee of everyday possibilities. Anyone who comments on this post will be entered in a chance to be one of five that continue on the chain. If you are chosen, you must Pay It Forward yourself by sending a surprise to the five winners of your Pay It Forward post. Got it? If you don't entirely understand, don't worry. Just leave a comment (or question) and I'll try to explain it more thoroughly.

31 Dark Days of October

2009-09-28T19:59:00.000-07:00

Seeing as October is one of my favorite months, and I am just bursting with excitement at its beginning, I have decided to set out to complete the very daring task of posting every day this month. Recipes, traditions, spooky stories, pictures, giveaways and surprises... For 31 days my blog will be nothing but Halloween-y fun! Check back to make sure you don't miss a thing!

A Spiky Smile

2009-09-27T14:56:00.000-07:00

"All the sorrow and trouble of this world is caused by unhappy people... The Search for contentment is, therefore, not merely a self-benefiting act, but a generous gift to the world."

- Elizabeth Gilbert

So take a hint from this cute little guy and be happy.
Smile.
(It's the one present it's okay to re-gift.)

Sensational Songs Saturday No. 7

2009-09-26T09:26:00.000-07:00

Ellington is an Australian band that I have recently discovered- and fallen head over heals for. The lead's accent is absolutely darling to watch in online recordings and the band's soft melodies are simply soothing and luxuriously lovely for whenever- especially when I am in need of a calm atmosphere.

Fairy Friday No. 11

2009-09-25T05:05:00.000-07:00

"The fey wonders of the world only exist while there are those with the sight to see them."
-Charles de Lint

Eat Your Veggies

2009-09-25T05:00:00.000-07:00

Today is Hug A Vegetarian Day! Now I, myself, am not a vegetarian. Yet. Recently I have decided to slowly go vegetarian, or at least commit to a number of days a week where I will eat no meat. This does not mean I am just eating PopTarts or some junk instead. I am starting to making lentil soups, crisp salads, spicy tofu dishes, etc. to better the diet I have now, in addition to replacing the meat. I'm not forcing my readers to become a herbivore, but try it for a day or at least make a conscious effort to really think about what (who) you're eating at dinner tonight...

Join the Peace Party- Not Just Today, but Everyday

2009-09-21T07:02:00.000-07:00

Twisty Lane

Happy Fall!

2009-09-19T20:20:00.000-07:00

Depending on where you live, today may be the first day of the Fall Equinox. I don't know about you, but where I live it is altogether too hot. Fall is my favorite season, but I like it closer to 60 degrees than 100 (as it has been a few days this past week). I mean, really. When you think of fall you should think: crisp... nippy... crunchy... brown... red... windy... jackets... Not sun and sweat and shorts and air conditioning. Sigh. Guess I'm just going to have to wait. In the meantime, I shall imagine my autumn haven, like the one in this picture. Feel free to give me descriptions of the coming fall where you live to better my imaginary escape, though, I warn you, I'll be jealous.

Sensational Songs Saturday No. 6

2009-09-19T07:15:00.000-07:00

Although their music may not be an universal favorite, you've gotta love their style. The boys are always cute in bow-ties and and other classy yet, funky outfits and their new CD cover looks almost Vogue.

Peeka BOO

2009-09-18T19:48:00.000-07:00

I've just entered to win a darling little bear in a giveaway at:

http://bearbits.blogspot.com/2009/08/silver-anniversary-giveaway-3.html