Breaking New Ground

I know that it may seem cliche and a little overplayed to be focused on new things at the start of the year. So be it. I have decided that even though I may not be able t actually open my own embroidery shop/tea bar this year, there is no harm in going through some of the processes and perhaps even start an online store by the end of the year.

Besides taking some business planning and financial courses, I definitely need to brush up on my drawing skills in order to design patterns. A great friend who has an illustration background will be giving me lessons and this summer, I plan on taking a class. 

In  the meantime, the internet and various wikis are my friend.

This is first completed sketch that could be converted to a pattern. 

A little rough, but ya have to start somewhere.

Simple yet identifiable.

Also, still plugging way on my blue squares. I am looking forward to having this lovely piece on our bed but also can't wait to start making multi-colored fun squares.

Side note: a great brunch of focaccia, goat cheese, and grape chutney =awesome. Add a mystery novel, and you have bliss.

Lastly, but most importantly, I would not be able to do any of this today without my new glasses. I waited for the optician to call like most girls wait for their crush. Some adjusting will be necessary, but I am back in the making game!

It's about time

No, really. It's about time. I have realized that that is my major stressor. It isn't actually what I have to get done that stresses me out, but rather the time I have to do it in. I will admit to taking on more than I should. But can't that be said for nearly everyone?

I find myself becoming more stingy with my time and sometimes, even resenting my obligations. I freely agreed to work on all three plays at my school this year--directing, designing, and building two and just designing and building the musical. I spend three nights a week in the auditorium working with my students. And sadly, those are nine hours that I want back at the moment.

I love it, but it takes so much time!

Between working a full-time job, the plays, maintaining a healthy relationship, going to the gym, housework and creating, I am feeling a little pulled thin. I struggle with the resentment and the moods that can create. I have resolved to maintain a more positive outlook, but want to be honest with myself and with those that depend upon me.  

How do you all manage these pulls on your time?

We DID make time to make brunch together and spend some one-on-one time...absolutely vital!

Foodie Friday: Pumpkin French Toast

Fall is a wonderful time to gather with friends and share your blessings. Brunch is one of my favorite ways to get together--it feels fancy without all the stress of a dinner party.  This seasonal french toast is easy to prepare but easily impresses all. It is a great party items or perhaps as a holiday breakfast.

Sunday Funday: Winding Down

Summer is sadly winding to a close. I am trying to hold on with all my might and wring out the very essence of summer before it slips away. Our time together on the weekends is even more precious as the semester has begun and it is nearly time for school and rehearsals. Our time no longer will be our own.

This weekend we have an almost perfect balance of frenzied activity and restful repose.

Friday evening, we went to a local town fair and soaked

up some ambiance.  The view from the ferris wheel was humbling.

Afterward, we went to a local creamery and sampled some

handmade ice cream. Delightful!

Saturday was a day that summer dreams of being: a morning

at the Community Garden, followed by the Farmer's Market. 

An afternoon of swimming and innertubing at a local waterfall.

A locavore feast on the deck followed by a moonlit stroll. In short, bliss.

Sunday low-key and relaxing: Brunch under the morning sun, 

running through the sprinkler, reading, napping, cleaning up, 

Vietnamese take-out, now to sack out in from of Blue Planet and

rejuvenate for the week ahead.

Good luck to you as you start another adventure!

Foodie Friday: Dutch Baby with Blueberry Sauce

No, I am not advocating munching on infants from the Netherlands, but rather brunching on a delicious puffy oven pancake. It is super easy to make and even easier to enjoy. It would be a great easy dish to serve when you have company over for breakfast or brunch...looks impressive, but SO simple.