In many ways. I think it is time for a blog refresh. I've missed writing.
So, with the help of my fancy fiancee, I hope to give this blog a bit more of an update.
Along with my usual crafty and saving tips, I will also be detailing my journey into wedding planning. Yep, you heard it. Wedding planning, its about time. We are looking into planning our fancy party for under $5,000. (Even saying that number seems blasphemous. I can't ever remember a time that I've ever had that amount of money). Our first tutorial will be about gathering supplies and starting early on making photo booths and food showcases.
Let the construction begin!
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
I swear!
I swear, tomorrow. I blog entry.
About Beardaversary and crafts.
Crafts and Anaheim Comic Con plans.
I cross my heart. I swear it.
About Beardaversary and crafts.
Crafts and Anaheim Comic Con plans.
I cross my heart. I swear it.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
CRAFTS!
So I'm working on something new.
Something I'll *hopefully* be done with before Beard-A-Versary.
I want people to come into the bedroom and say, "Wow, Kay, this is amazing. Where did you get that?"
Its a cork board made out of wine and champagne corks, which will hold a display of my jewelry.
I'm not done yet, nor am I half way through (You need a lot more corks than I thought!) but I'm so excited I'm going to give you a little tiny preview.
That's an awl, hammer, box cutter and self healing mat. In the 3 hours I was playing with cutting these corks I kept feeling like a pioneer splitting tiny logs with an ax. My hands kinda ache.
I got the pretty corks from The Long Beach Depot for Creative Reuse, which I'm pretty much in love with. If you've never been to the one in Berkley or the one in Long Beach and your a crafter, well you are missing out. The Depot had a 5 gallon tupperware full of old corks for 5 cents each. (on a side note, where is the cent sign on this keyboard? I don't think there is one) I couldn't believe my luck!
I sent Woody over there for more today since my picture frame, which will serve as the back of the cork board, is about 17X22 inches.
Hopefully I'll be done with this project by Beard-A-Versary and will be able to post a tutorial on it later this week. I'll miss going to school in the summer because I'll have alot less time on my hands at work to do stuff like this.
Something I'll *hopefully* be done with before Beard-A-Versary.
I want people to come into the bedroom and say, "Wow, Kay, this is amazing. Where did you get that?"
Its a cork board made out of wine and champagne corks, which will hold a display of my jewelry.
I'm not done yet, nor am I half way through (You need a lot more corks than I thought!) but I'm so excited I'm going to give you a little tiny preview.
That's an awl, hammer, box cutter and self healing mat. In the 3 hours I was playing with cutting these corks I kept feeling like a pioneer splitting tiny logs with an ax. My hands kinda ache.I got the pretty corks from The Long Beach Depot for Creative Reuse, which I'm pretty much in love with. If you've never been to the one in Berkley or the one in Long Beach and your a crafter, well you are missing out. The Depot had a 5 gallon tupperware full of old corks for 5 cents each. (on a side note, where is the cent sign on this keyboard? I don't think there is one) I couldn't believe my luck!
I sent Woody over there for more today since my picture frame, which will serve as the back of the cork board, is about 17X22 inches.
Hopefully I'll be done with this project by Beard-A-Versary and will be able to post a tutorial on it later this week. I'll miss going to school in the summer because I'll have alot less time on my hands at work to do stuff like this.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Beard-A-Versary food
I love having people over.
If I thought I could stand the 1950 or 60's misogyny, I'd have fit right in as the perfect little hostess housewife. There is nothing I love better than having my house full of people I love (and a few people I just tolerate) with a glass of something bubbly and compliments on my food.
But I really hate cleaning up after it all.
This year for Beard-A-Versary I get to plan the who shebang. Decorations, food and finally get the house in the order it needs to be in. We've got 30 odd people coming and it makes me very excited to be the hostess. But then thinking about cleaning up after everyone makes me wish I didn't like hosting things so much. On the Sunday after Beard-A-Versary, Woody, me and a few friends have planned to go camping in Death Valley. Yep, you got that right, after a night of drinking and mess making I'm going to pack my ass up and drive five hours to camp in the desert. With this in mind I've planned the menu accordingly. Everything can be done in the week preceding the party and I am taking some major shortcuts. The menu you ask?
I honestly am daunted by the idea of rolling my own meatballs. It is entirely too stressful so I'm taking that whole idea out and instead, going to hunt for some frozen meatballs to try instead.
This recipe is SO easy.
Thunder(meat)balls:
1 (2 pound) bag frozen Rosina Home style Meatballs
1 (10 ounce) bag frozen organic tri-colored sweet peppers
1 (14 ounce) can jellied cranberry sauce
1 (12 ounce) jar Chili Sauce
Salt
Freshly ground pepper
Red pepper flakes, optional but recommended
Cooked rice
Instructions
1. Add the cranberry sauce, chili sauce, a pinch of salt, some pepper, and a dash of red pepper flakes to taste to a pot and bring to a simmer. Stir often and turn off heat when the two sauces combine.
2. Place the frozen meatballs, frozen peppers, and sauce mixture into a slow cooker and cook over low heat for about 6 to 7 hours or on high heat for about 4 to 5 hours.
3. Serve over rice if desired.
(Recipe by Laura Flowers)
See how easy? I might just use grape jelly because I've had it prepared with it and its so delicious! All I got to do is toss everything in the slow cooker and, presto, I'm all done.
I am so looking forward to trying this next one. Lady fingers can be bought pre-made and this looks like the only thing I'll actually have to prepare the day of.
Gold(lady)finger toasts with Chambord and Amaretto dip:
LADYFINGER TOASTS:
1 package (3 ounces) ladyfingers
2 to 3 tablespoons Chambord Liqueur (or raspberry extract) or Amaretto Liqueur (or almond extract)
1 tablespoon sugar
1/8 teaspoon allspice
Vegetable cooking spray
Lightly spray baking sheet with vegetable cooking spray; set aside. Split and separate ladyfingers. Place on baking sheet, split sides up. Brush with liqueur or extract. In small bowl combine sugar and spice. Sprinkle over ladyfingers. Bake at 250 degrees for 20 minutes. Turn off heat and continue baking additional 15 minutes. Cool completely. Serve with Chambord and Amaretto Dip if desired (see below). Makes 24 pieces
Octopussy Jello Shots:
Not going to lie, this is what I'm most excited about.
This recipe is so perfect!
Just clear jello, ice cube trays, simple syrup, berries and vodka. Lovely! I like it because they look classy and not like what you get at a kegger. My Partner In Crime had the brilliant idea to put gummy octopus inside the jello shots to make them fit in perfectly with the theme. I may have to twist her arm to get her to use Absolut's Apeach or Pears because I don't like blueberry Stoli.
Last but not least;
From Russia with Love Punch:
Ingredients:
One bottle of a bubbly drink. (a sweet Champagne, ginger ale, lemon lime soda, fizzy water, etc)
1/4 - 1/2 a can of frozen concentrated pink lemonade (or any other pink drink in concentrated form)
8 ounces flavored vodka (I'm going to use my favorite Absolut Apeach)
water to taste.
Add all to a large punch bowl or drink dispenser, mix well. Add water to taste. To serve cold in a drink dispenser, do large pieces of ice. They'll melt slower.
The frozen concentrated drink is what gives this a major kick. The sweetness of the concentrated juice will counteract the alcohol. But, can give drinkers MAJOR heart burn if not watered down properly. I had a ridiculous experience after a breakup where I was dead set on using my new blender in my brand spanking new apartment the evening after I got dumped. So I looked up delicious drinks and found the Pink Panty. Frozen pink lemonade, vodka, ice and cool whip. It was delicious, but it knocked me on my ass and the lemonade gave me excruciating heartburn because it wasn't watered down enough. I guess the four shots of vodka didn't count.
In other news, I got my mustache in the mail. It is lovely, and I'm way excited to wear it. All I have to do now is trim it so it looks more natural. I'm counting down the days till Beard-A-Versary. Its ridiculous how excited I am.
If I thought I could stand the 1950 or 60's misogyny, I'd have fit right in as the perfect little hostess housewife. There is nothing I love better than having my house full of people I love (and a few people I just tolerate) with a glass of something bubbly and compliments on my food.
But I really hate cleaning up after it all.
This year for Beard-A-Versary I get to plan the who shebang. Decorations, food and finally get the house in the order it needs to be in. We've got 30 odd people coming and it makes me very excited to be the hostess. But then thinking about cleaning up after everyone makes me wish I didn't like hosting things so much. On the Sunday after Beard-A-Versary, Woody, me and a few friends have planned to go camping in Death Valley. Yep, you got that right, after a night of drinking and mess making I'm going to pack my ass up and drive five hours to camp in the desert. With this in mind I've planned the menu accordingly. Everything can be done in the week preceding the party and I am taking some major shortcuts. The menu you ask?
I honestly am daunted by the idea of rolling my own meatballs. It is entirely too stressful so I'm taking that whole idea out and instead, going to hunt for some frozen meatballs to try instead.
This recipe is SO easy.
Thunder(meat)balls:
1 (2 pound) bag frozen Rosina Home style Meatballs
1 (10 ounce) bag frozen organic tri-colored sweet peppers
1 (14 ounce) can jellied cranberry sauce
1 (12 ounce) jar Chili Sauce
Salt
Freshly ground pepper
Red pepper flakes, optional but recommended
Cooked rice
Instructions
1. Add the cranberry sauce, chili sauce, a pinch of salt, some pepper, and a dash of red pepper flakes to taste to a pot and bring to a simmer. Stir often and turn off heat when the two sauces combine.
2. Place the frozen meatballs, frozen peppers, and sauce mixture into a slow cooker and cook over low heat for about 6 to 7 hours or on high heat for about 4 to 5 hours.
3. Serve over rice if desired.
(Recipe by Laura Flowers)
See how easy? I might just use grape jelly because I've had it prepared with it and its so delicious! All I got to do is toss everything in the slow cooker and, presto, I'm all done.
I am so looking forward to trying this next one. Lady fingers can be bought pre-made and this looks like the only thing I'll actually have to prepare the day of.
Gold(lady)finger toasts with Chambord and Amaretto dip:
LADYFINGER TOASTS:
1 package (3 ounces) ladyfingers
2 to 3 tablespoons Chambord Liqueur (or raspberry extract) or Amaretto Liqueur (or almond extract)
1 tablespoon sugar
1/8 teaspoon allspice
Vegetable cooking spray
Lightly spray baking sheet with vegetable cooking spray; set aside. Split and separate ladyfingers. Place on baking sheet, split sides up. Brush with liqueur or extract. In small bowl combine sugar and spice. Sprinkle over ladyfingers. Bake at 250 degrees for 20 minutes. Turn off heat and continue baking additional 15 minutes. Cool completely. Serve with Chambord and Amaretto Dip if desired (see below). Makes 24 pieces
CHAMBORD AND AMARETTO DIP:
1 package (3 3/8 ounces) vanilla instant pudding mix
3 cups cold milk
1/4 cup Chambord Liqueur (or 2 teaspoons raspberry extract)
1/4 cup Amaretto Liqueur (or 2 teaspoons almond extract)
2 cups frozen whipped topping (thawed)
Mix pudding and milk on low speed of electric mixer until blended. Continue mixing until smooth and creamy, about two minutes. Divide into 2 bowls. Add Chambord liqueur to one bowl and Amaretto liqueur to the second bowl. Fold 1 cup whipped topping into each bowl. Chill until serving time. Serve with ladyfinger toast and fresh fruit. Note: Chambord or Amaretto can be substituted with any liqueur you desire.
Octopussy Jello Shots:
Not going to lie, this is what I'm most excited about.
This recipe is so perfect!
Just clear jello, ice cube trays, simple syrup, berries and vodka. Lovely! I like it because they look classy and not like what you get at a kegger. My Partner In Crime had the brilliant idea to put gummy octopus inside the jello shots to make them fit in perfectly with the theme. I may have to twist her arm to get her to use Absolut's Apeach or Pears because I don't like blueberry Stoli.
Last but not least;
From Russia with Love Punch:
Ingredients:
One bottle of a bubbly drink. (a sweet Champagne, ginger ale, lemon lime soda, fizzy water, etc)
1/4 - 1/2 a can of frozen concentrated pink lemonade (or any other pink drink in concentrated form)
8 ounces flavored vodka (I'm going to use my favorite Absolut Apeach)
water to taste.
Add all to a large punch bowl or drink dispenser, mix well. Add water to taste. To serve cold in a drink dispenser, do large pieces of ice. They'll melt slower.
The frozen concentrated drink is what gives this a major kick. The sweetness of the concentrated juice will counteract the alcohol. But, can give drinkers MAJOR heart burn if not watered down properly. I had a ridiculous experience after a breakup where I was dead set on using my new blender in my brand spanking new apartment the evening after I got dumped. So I looked up delicious drinks and found the Pink Panty. Frozen pink lemonade, vodka, ice and cool whip. It was delicious, but it knocked me on my ass and the lemonade gave me excruciating heartburn because it wasn't watered down enough. I guess the four shots of vodka didn't count.
In other news, I got my mustache in the mail. It is lovely, and I'm way excited to wear it. All I have to do now is trim it so it looks more natural. I'm counting down the days till Beard-A-Versary. Its ridiculous how excited I am.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Beard-A-Versary, Decorating and Organization.
Remember those pictures I promised of my lovely organized closet? Well Woody's camera is a little bitch and for some reason refuses to load anything to blogger. Why? Who the hell knows. So in the interm, I'm going to try to post more even if I don't have pictures.
On the organizing and decorating front:
Woody and I have been able to put my closet in order, his closet in order, both of our bookshelves in order and my favorite... the "linen closet" in order. "Linen closet" is in quotes because really, there ain't much linen in it. Its this crazy weird triangular shelf space with doors above a place where a washer might have been but is no longer. It didn't really fit anything until we organized it. We've got cleaning supplies, tools of every shape and form, cat toys, dusters, and rags. Sheets and towels take up a measly shelf, which was haphazardly stuffed, which in turn made the closet doors never close. So on a lovely Sunday night we took everything out of the closet ran to Target and spent 30 dollars on Tupperware. Seriously, Tupperware. Woody had the ingenious idea to fold the towels in a triangle shape for easy storage, and I dug around for a stray fabric box to put one of the two sheet sets we have in it. Its a tight fit but who cares! More space for me!
I'm still trying to get the bedroom finished. Woody bought this lovely frame for me for Christmas and is ordering one of the beard pictures from our beard photo shoot from Costco. They do pretty inexpensive poster prints. (I think it might be 15 dollars if that) I plan on putting that above our Ikea bed and hanging smaller frames around it. On another wall we plan on hanging a limited edition print of Zombie Theme Park by Scott C. (Check out Lumberjacks at Work, its so cute!)
We went to The Framestore this week and got it framed. Let me tell you, framing is NOT cheap. We had two coupons and two pieces to frame and each piece was over $100 dollars to frame. I would NOT frame something for that much, but Woody on the other hand isn't a Cheap Bitch On A Budget so I let him do as he pleases. I'd probably make my own frame before spending that much on framing. Its going to look lovely so I guess I can't complain too much.
I tried to keep the bedroom as clutter free as possible. So we have alot of wall space. (I wanted it to be a place where we could really relax since the living room is SO FULL of books and art supplies and movies and rock band equipment and everything else in the world.... AHHHHH!) I love it because in the morning the bedroom is the first room to get sunshine. Its so great! With the weather being as lovely as it has been I like waking up to the sunshine at 7am. I love reading in bed with the window open and not having to turn on a light.
So when I was thinking about decorating the bedroom, I decided to take a look into wall decals. They are so cute and so temporary since we're renting. But the ones I was looking at (even on Etsy.com, which had by far the cheapest and most variety) were entirely too expensive. I wanted a big tree with long branches that I could "hang" pictures from in the branches. Those run like 120 dollars! Its ridiculous! So instead I saw this post about making your own wall silhouettes out of fabric and liquid starch. So the plan is to get Woody to draw a fantastic tree, that has room to grow around our room and then cut it out of fabric. From what I've been able to ascertain is that the fabric must be washed before hand (bleeding happens as does shrinkage) and stretchy fabrics are a no-no. When you get stretchy fabrics wet, they just stretch more and more. Calico or muslin are the best bet. I'm thinking something lightly patterned would look lovey! I plan on doing this after Beard-A-Versary.
On Beard-A-Versary:
What's Beard-A-Versary you say? Oh just when Woody celebrates the growth of his beard. He negotiated with me the chance to let his beard grow from December to the end of March when Beard-A-Versary is happening. Its starting to look like a forest. I was able to put a down feather inside his beard and he couldn't find it. I miss his strong chin under there.
Anyway, the point is, this year Beard-A-Versary is being hosted at our house. We have a teeny, tiny patio out back that we share with the other three apartments. After gaining the consent from our apartment mates we've (well I've) thrown ourselves into planning the best party ever. Since it is the fourth annual Beard-A-Versary the theme is Thunderbeard, after the fourth James Bond movie, Thunderball. That means fancy dresses, bow-ties and my favorite, CHAMPAGNE! Oh, and yeah beards. Everyone has to wear one. I splurged big time this year and ordered one off the internet. Behold! The Piper Mustache!
Yes! I decided to recreate my beard photoshoot with this lovely thing. It might be a LITTLE too dark for my hair color, but I figured the blonde would be too blonde. I'm going to hunt for a retro evening dress this weekend after watching Thunderball. Then I'll have to brainstorm hair and makeup ideas. Finding a tutorial on 1960's makeup and hair is a little difficult. My hair isn't quite long enough to do the rumpled just tumbled in bed look.
But besides my own costume I'm the one brainstorming food and decorations. (I always wonder how Woody would live without me. I think this is the eternal woman in a relationship question.) So far I've decided to serve in theme, Thunder(meat)balls, Gold(lady)fingers with amaretto dipping sauce, Octopussy Jello shots, and for my hoping to be skinny ass... hummus and veggies with a stray selection of cheese and crackers. I'm trying to get Woody to help me recreate the opening gun barrel scene with black paper and paint. But I guess we'll see. I love being hostess so much I always take on the even all by my lonesome because no one is as excited as I am.
Its going to turn out fantastic! I am counting down the days!
On the organizing and decorating front:
Woody and I have been able to put my closet in order, his closet in order, both of our bookshelves in order and my favorite... the "linen closet" in order. "Linen closet" is in quotes because really, there ain't much linen in it. Its this crazy weird triangular shelf space with doors above a place where a washer might have been but is no longer. It didn't really fit anything until we organized it. We've got cleaning supplies, tools of every shape and form, cat toys, dusters, and rags. Sheets and towels take up a measly shelf, which was haphazardly stuffed, which in turn made the closet doors never close. So on a lovely Sunday night we took everything out of the closet ran to Target and spent 30 dollars on Tupperware. Seriously, Tupperware. Woody had the ingenious idea to fold the towels in a triangle shape for easy storage, and I dug around for a stray fabric box to put one of the two sheet sets we have in it. Its a tight fit but who cares! More space for me!
I'm still trying to get the bedroom finished. Woody bought this lovely frame for me for Christmas and is ordering one of the beard pictures from our beard photo shoot from Costco. They do pretty inexpensive poster prints. (I think it might be 15 dollars if that) I plan on putting that above our Ikea bed and hanging smaller frames around it. On another wall we plan on hanging a limited edition print of Zombie Theme Park by Scott C. (Check out Lumberjacks at Work, its so cute!)
We went to The Framestore this week and got it framed. Let me tell you, framing is NOT cheap. We had two coupons and two pieces to frame and each piece was over $100 dollars to frame. I would NOT frame something for that much, but Woody on the other hand isn't a Cheap Bitch On A Budget so I let him do as he pleases. I'd probably make my own frame before spending that much on framing. Its going to look lovely so I guess I can't complain too much.
I tried to keep the bedroom as clutter free as possible. So we have alot of wall space. (I wanted it to be a place where we could really relax since the living room is SO FULL of books and art supplies and movies and rock band equipment and everything else in the world.... AHHHHH!) I love it because in the morning the bedroom is the first room to get sunshine. Its so great! With the weather being as lovely as it has been I like waking up to the sunshine at 7am. I love reading in bed with the window open and not having to turn on a light.
So when I was thinking about decorating the bedroom, I decided to take a look into wall decals. They are so cute and so temporary since we're renting. But the ones I was looking at (even on Etsy.com, which had by far the cheapest and most variety) were entirely too expensive. I wanted a big tree with long branches that I could "hang" pictures from in the branches. Those run like 120 dollars! Its ridiculous! So instead I saw this post about making your own wall silhouettes out of fabric and liquid starch. So the plan is to get Woody to draw a fantastic tree, that has room to grow around our room and then cut it out of fabric. From what I've been able to ascertain is that the fabric must be washed before hand (bleeding happens as does shrinkage) and stretchy fabrics are a no-no. When you get stretchy fabrics wet, they just stretch more and more. Calico or muslin are the best bet. I'm thinking something lightly patterned would look lovey! I plan on doing this after Beard-A-Versary.
On Beard-A-Versary:
What's Beard-A-Versary you say? Oh just when Woody celebrates the growth of his beard. He negotiated with me the chance to let his beard grow from December to the end of March when Beard-A-Versary is happening. Its starting to look like a forest. I was able to put a down feather inside his beard and he couldn't find it. I miss his strong chin under there.
Anyway, the point is, this year Beard-A-Versary is being hosted at our house. We have a teeny, tiny patio out back that we share with the other three apartments. After gaining the consent from our apartment mates we've (well I've) thrown ourselves into planning the best party ever. Since it is the fourth annual Beard-A-Versary the theme is Thunderbeard, after the fourth James Bond movie, Thunderball. That means fancy dresses, bow-ties and my favorite, CHAMPAGNE! Oh, and yeah beards. Everyone has to wear one. I splurged big time this year and ordered one off the internet. Behold! The Piper Mustache!
Yes! I decided to recreate my beard photoshoot with this lovely thing. It might be a LITTLE too dark for my hair color, but I figured the blonde would be too blonde. I'm going to hunt for a retro evening dress this weekend after watching Thunderball. Then I'll have to brainstorm hair and makeup ideas. Finding a tutorial on 1960's makeup and hair is a little difficult. My hair isn't quite long enough to do the rumpled just tumbled in bed look.But besides my own costume I'm the one brainstorming food and decorations. (I always wonder how Woody would live without me. I think this is the eternal woman in a relationship question.) So far I've decided to serve in theme, Thunder(meat)balls, Gold(lady)fingers with amaretto dipping sauce, Octopussy Jello shots, and for my hoping to be skinny ass... hummus and veggies with a stray selection of cheese and crackers. I'm trying to get Woody to help me recreate the opening gun barrel scene with black paper and paint. But I guess we'll see. I love being hostess so much I always take on the even all by my lonesome because no one is as excited as I am.
Its going to turn out fantastic! I am counting down the days!
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Almost Done!
... with no pictures (yet!) to show for it.
Prepare to be wow'ed with a post tomorrow with the following.
My brand spanking new closet space full of organized crafts.
A bookshelf packed to the brim with trashy romance novels
And a picture of what I've STILL got to deal with.
So excited to be done moving for a while!
Prepare to be wow'ed with a post tomorrow with the following.
My brand spanking new closet space full of organized crafts.
A bookshelf packed to the brim with trashy romance novels
And a picture of what I've STILL got to deal with.
So excited to be done moving for a while!
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Oh hey look! I'm packing!
So here is the first installment of: Kay Moves to Woody's.
Lets start by posting a few pictures huh?
This is my room as of Saturday: Wow look at that mess! My mother would probably kill me if she knew I was posting it. She'd think she let me get away with this horrible mess! Now I'll defend myself by saying, I haven't been living here since I've been at Woody's for over a month. It doesn't give me an excuse to live like a hoarder. As you can see I don't have a bed anymore (its in the living room) and hate to disappoint you, but the Rock Band drums are not mine. I scooted these out real fast.
See my dilemma? I've got to squeeze all of this mess into Woody's tiny ass apartment. Now wait! That's not all. We have yet to look at my closet and book shelves.
Here's a picture of that disaster: The other side of the closet is pretty much cleared out thankfully. That top shelf is FULL of my crafts. I do alot of
stenciling, scrapbooking, and sewing. I also cannot bear to throw away my college art history notes. Fail me. As of Saturday I've just had them sitting on top of the top shelf in envelopes and have not utilized any sort of organizational system. This all changed on Sunday.When Woody was looking for apartments in Long Beach I was adamant about two things: space and parking. Space because I've got a trashy romance novel obsession and parking because it is terrible in Long Beach. I got what I wanted. But I didn't factor in Woody's art supplies. Our living room is pretty packed. I don't mind at the moment, but once my stuff is moved in there I am terrified that we are going to be swallowed by newsprint, watercolor, glitter, ribbon and charcoal. I'll be attacked by rampaging crayons and comic books! So we're constantly working on getting our act together to figure out alternative means of storing our belongings.
First order of business for me? Plastic boxes. I pulled down every single crafting supply I had in my room and went through it. I threw out all of my small scraps. I threw out all my old jeans which I had vague plans for. I threw out paper and half used markers and every project that I've been sitting on for months and months and never followed through with. Then after looking at my pile of crafts, went to Target and spent 50 dollars on storage boxes. Now, as a cheap bitch on a budget, I'd tell you Target is the last place to find storage boxes. Big Lots is your best bet. But honestly, I was so overwhelmed by packing, that Target was the most soothing place I could think of to buy plastic containers. Sometimes it's worth it to spend extra money on things when you know spending less is just going to drive you crazy.
Ten Boxes! This is what I've pared my crafts down to. I made a container for cutting things, stencils, drawing implements, glitter, ribbon and yarn, tape and glue, two boxes for sewing projects. (For the life of me I cannot remember what one of the boxes was for. Figures.) I found the perfect plastic sleeves for my scrapbook paper. I hate that it's such an awkward size and was so excited to find these sleeves in the dollar section of the store. I devoted one sleeve to blank card stock, one to themed paper and one to patterned paper. The plastic file bin the accordion is sitting on, is cleared out of all my college crap and now holds all the minutia I use for scrapbooking.I find it so much more fun to save little parts of a really good day to add into my scrapbooks. Bottle caps for epic nights of drinking, movie ticket stubs for that HORRIBLE date you had, wrist bands for amazing concerts and the like. But it just looks so cluttered keeping them in a box. Filing them according to event and time in my life makes it easier to keep track of and SO MUCH easier to scrapbook. I can now take out the next event folder and work on that page without having to dig through a box and getting distracted by other events. Although speaking of getting distracted, I was in such a groove with throwing crap out, I totally threw the top of this file box out. Oops. Got to buy a new one. Having everything packed inside a box ready to be put away was great! I packed my large box and took it to Woody's and had it put away within a half hour. I think that is the real secret to moving, is getting everything put away gradually so you don't get overwhelmed.
I do not have any pictures of the after of my room because honestly, its still covered in crap! I'm going over there again this weekend and weeding through my trashy romance novels and clothes once more.
Boo! I was going to upload a fancy project for all the gamers I know and love. So it will have to be less picture heavy. This lovely project is brought to you by my sexy, handy and innovative boyfriend.
It is a way to store those pesky Rock Band and Guitar Hero Instruments. These guitars were being stored in the close I plan to currently put my life in. The closet was full of guitars and a HUGE drum set. (Still not sure how to store those drums) While I was aware of ways of storing traditional guitars, on the wall I was wary of putting holes in the wall since we are renting. Woody came up with this gem. He mounted them on our Ikea shelving!
You'll Need:
Double headed hook.
Screws or nails.
Velcro.
Cost: under 10 dollars.
Essentially, the double headed utility hook will hold the bottom of the guitar and Velcro, placed in strategic places on the body of the guitar will hold it flush against the wall. It is BEAUTIFUL! I'm so glad I wont be tripping over them any more. We now have plans to mount all of the controllers in individual pockets on the outside of the shelf. If only we could figure out where to put the Rock Band drums.
Much love for all of you moving too!
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Food!
So while thinking about new years resolutions I realized that I wanted to cook more.
I had no idea where to start with this.
But I think I've finally figured it out.
I'll go by type of food. This month I'm going to experiment with Greek yogurt/plain yogurt and see what I can do with it.
First recipe?
Chicken Pita's with a Yogurt Dill Sauce.
7 points.
So excited!
I had no idea where to start with this.
But I think I've finally figured it out.
I'll go by type of food. This month I'm going to experiment with Greek yogurt/plain yogurt and see what I can do with it.
First recipe?
Chicken Pita's with a Yogurt Dill Sauce.
7 points.
So excited!
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
New Project
Oh hey there...
Guess what?
I'm moving again. This time (hopefully) for a while, to Woody's!
I'm going to document this shit from the beginning, (which starts Sunday in cleaning my fucking room) to end.
There will be pictures, and lists and all sorts of tips on how to clean out your shit, and pack it all away.
Things I dread?
Getting rid of shoes. (Boo!)
Getting rid of books. (Double Boo!)
Getting rid of crafting supplies. (a much needed thank god. I hoard them too much)
Thanks for following along on my journey of moves!
Guess what?
I'm moving again. This time (hopefully) for a while, to Woody's!
I'm going to document this shit from the beginning, (which starts Sunday in cleaning my fucking room) to end.
There will be pictures, and lists and all sorts of tips on how to clean out your shit, and pack it all away.
Things I dread?
Getting rid of shoes. (Boo!)
Getting rid of books. (Double Boo!)
Getting rid of crafting supplies. (a much needed thank god. I hoard them too much)
Thanks for following along on my journey of moves!
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Resolutions everywhere!
Hello! Its been quite a while!
I've been motivated to post today because those I love and follow have been posting such great New Year's lists and resolutions. (also my boss is out of the office and I'm on the morning shift yay!) So now it's my turn!
My New Year's resolutions last year consisted of...
1. Working on my fitness.
- Yes, I did work on it. I went to Karate. No, I didn't go as often as I should go, but I never stopped going all together. I'm stronger and fitter now than I was last year. I'm an orange belt and I don't regret the hundreds of dollars I've devoted to United Studios of Self Defense, nor do I regret having to be a cheap slut on a budget to keep doing this. Now I'm quitting for a few months to get my school life together, but I made a decision to still go to my cardio class there two days a week so I'm not tempted to just quit all together. I'm on weight watchers. Yeah, thats ALSO hard. Yes, I've been pretty bad lately. But if I just keep tracking, and holding on to Woody's hand when I want to go overboard, I should be able to loose weight. I just want to change my habits, not become half the person I am. So I'll be keeping this resolution.
2. Working on my debt.
- Tis done! I got all my shit paid. I'm not getting calls from collection agencies, or multi colored notices in the mail. If there's any advice I'd give those cheap sluts in debt I'd say DON'T wait for those pretty notices to come in the mail. Be proactive. Call your collectors explain the situation and get your ass in gear to pay it back. They do want their money, and they DO accept payments. Its not fun being buried under those notices.
Despite having gotten rid of all my crazy ass debt, I do have a credit card that is maxed out. I'd like to get that paid off before the year is out. So this is also staying on the resolution list.
3. Saving for my back tattoo.
- This resolution started out so well! I was saving 20-40 dollars a month for this. Then ace got sick, and bills piled up and it got pushed to the side. Truthfully, I think this might come off my list this year because I've got so much on my plate that is just more important. Ink is fun, expensive and not nearly as much of a priority as getting my life together.
4. Continuing my education.
- This I did! Got my diploma from UCSC, got my last few classes finished, applied to grad school (didn't get in) and now have looked over my options and shall apply again to more grad schools. I've taken that step to quit USSD for a few months so that I can expediate the grad school financial proccess without pulling out all my hair. This one's a keeper!
5. Streamlining my life.
- Not so much. I started this blog as a move to track and give advice to those who are moving. In Feburary I've got plans to move in with my boyfriend. I'm nervous and excited all at once. I'm also stressed knowing that my space in his apartment is so limited, that I am surely not going to fit all my crap. Which means I'm actually going to have to streamline my life for real. This is a must for this year's resolutions.
6. Working on great skin.
-If by working on great skin this year I mean I increased my sunscreen intake then yes, I worked on great skin. Lancome is just so expensive! Even with my Partner In Crime's employee discount. Sunscreen is really the key for the summer (you're future face will thank you), and moisturizer is key for the winter.
7. Writing in my paper journal more.
- Fail. I just need to be doing this or blogging more. I can't decide.
8. Reading more edifying books.
- Fail. Edifying books are sometimes NO FUN! So this is another maybe.
9. Stop being such a crazy ass girlfriend.
- Success! With my 2008 goal (Dont be a fucking doormat. Communicate. Be everything you want in others. Dont be afraid of confrontation.) such a success, I've really been able to open up and not make the same mistakes I've made with past relationships. I've never had such a healthy amazing love life in never!
So it looks like we've got...
1. working on my fitness.
2. work on debt.
3. continue my education
4. streamline my life
these added to...
5. drink more water.
- at least 96 ounces a day. Being hydrated is so important to great skin. I love the fact that I don't have to wear too much foundation at this time in my life. With the amount that everyone my age drinks its even MORE important to hydrate, and I've fallen off the wagon of late with leaving my reusable waterbottle at home. (Slut on a budget hint on where to get a eco bottle cheap? Walgreens!)
6. blog more.
- Because I love this shit!
7. drink less booze.
- Alchoholism runs in my family. My grandfather had it, and my great uncle had it. I realize that yep, I like booze a little too much. So honestly, I'm going to try and cut back on it. (just think about those extra calories saved!)
I think I've got a good amount of work ahead of me.
I'll now admit to you a guilty pleasure, lists. I love them. All kinds! I especially love year end lists. I've found some pretty awesome lists of things this year that I'd like to share with you!
Best Books of 2009
Souless by Gail Carriger - A novel of Vampires, Werewolves and Parasols. Steampunk, romance, paranormal suspense? I'm so in. 181 pages into the book and its already a keeper!
Hunger Games and Catching Fire by Suzzane Collins - by far my new favorite series. This is what I'd rather my kids read than Twilight. Post apocolyptic society pits teens against each other to fight to the death. Heroine is fiesty and flawed. I love her. Not a big fan of the cliffhangers but... I'll forgive Suzzane Collins.
Jo Beverly - for the win all year. I powered through her romance series this year and I regret not one moment. I like historical romance with a high end of sexual tension.
SkippyJohn Jones by Judith Byron Schachner- Red this in Seattle for PAX and FELL IN LOVE with this children's book set. A siamese kitten who thinks he's a chihuahua who journeys into his closet for adventures with his chihuahua friends? Score!
Babar's Musem of Art - something I'm sure to read to my kids.
Bet Me by Jennifer Crusie- I loved this romance so much I read it twice in two weeks. It was that good!
Coraline by Neil Gamien- Errie and powerful. Had nightmares not going to lie.
Pride Prejudice and Zombies - While I cannot condone Sense, Sensibility and Seamonsters, I LOVED this one.
Best Beauty, Health and Food Discoveries of 2009
Smashbox Heartbreaker Liquid Liner Pen (http://www.smashbox.com/HEARTBREAKER-LIQUID-LINER-PEN) - I've been way in love with eyeliner. Especially 1960's era eyeliner. The thicker the better. My eyes love it! This pen is SOOOOO EASY! Its like a felt tipped pen! It goes on smooth and its not messy at all!
Getting your hair professionally dyed - it makes such a difference!
bosu ball - if you havent tried this at the gym you MUST. Its a ball with a flat bottom that helps you work your core. Your core helps your posture, walk and balance. I have a love hate relationship with this thing. Use it whenever you'd be on the floor working out. Crunches, push ups, even weights (when turned over and used as a balance board) are about a million times harder on this thing.
ea sports active - harder than I was expecting. Good for a rainy day but probably not a subsitution for your regular workout.
Honey crisp apples - Mmm. My favorite apples, only in season in the winter time. Perfect for eating whole.
Red lipstick- So I never felt comfortable wearing read lipstick until just recently. I had a dress that just screamed for some red accents and my heels were just not doing it. The trick? Try on every single shade of red you possibly can. I am a fan of Lancome's L'Absolu Rouge in Absolute Rouge and Revlon's Matte Lipstick in Really Red. Both of these are orange based that go great with my skin tone and are matte or not super shiney. The shine makes my lips look thin. Alot of people get nervous about wearing red because they buy the wrong color. Wearing the right shade of red will give you a super great boost of confidence.
Vintage and short wedding dresses - I know, I probably SHOULDN'T be thinking about wedding dresses. Its really quite horrible. BUT, when I give into the impuse I keep coming back to Dolly Couture's and Whirling Turban's wedding dresses. They are just so goddamn cute! And tailored to your size since they are custom made. That might put some people off but... not me!
Best Movies and TVof 2009
Star Trek - the newest movie. Underlying sexual tension between Kirk and Spock? Count me in. I don't care if no one else sees it.
The Office - Old news to some, but this series on Netflix on my computer keeps me sane in the Jesus library late at night
Buffy the Vampire Slayer - Another oldie but goodie. I love wasting time on this show.
Watchmen - Alien penis? Score! And despite the die hard comic lover's hate, I really found it at good adaption.
Coraline - Not in 3D! Just as fucking creepy as the book. Jeeze I'll have nightmares about Terri Hatcher's voice for years. Although I do love her pencil skirt.
1990's xmen on DVD - How can I not indulge (FINALLY) in my childhood love of Rouge and Gambit?
Best Websites of 2009
Souless by Gail Carriger - I already gushed about the book. This promotional website is just as awesome. Victorian paper dolls online? YES! So many times yes!
Tastespotting.com - I love this cooking website so much. So many pretty pictures! So many personal blogs. It makes it easy and accessable to first time cooker, me!
Craftzine.com - Always a win for some crafty gift ideas.
BlazedandConfused on Twitter - So you know those ridiculous Harlequin Blaze romances you see in the market and in the used book store? BlazedandConfused tweets the best lines from whatever they are reading at the moment. Hilarity ensues every time I read their tweets.
Smart Bitches, Trashy Books - I can never ever stop gushing about how much I love this blog. Its everything I could ever want!
Best Events of 2009
Disney's Give a Day Get a Day - Technically, its a 2010 event, but I found out about it in 2009. I always thought the "Celebrate your birthday with Disney" was kinda lame, but this new gimmick is totally awesome! Volunteer and get a free day at Disneyland. You'll what Disneyland? You'll *pay* me to volunteer? Score! Add that to the fact that the Jesus library will allow me to take a day with pay to volunteer and its a double score!
Hockey Games - I don't care which team. But I love them, I need to go to more.
Zombie Walks - Also another thing I need to do more.
The Alternative Press Expo - A beautiful fun, less cracktastic alternative to Comic-Con 2009. Sure you won't get the cast of Twilight, but who wants that at their comic book convention? Not me! Support small press and self published authors!
Demolition Derbys and the OC fair - an epic win all around. I did not expect to enjoy 30 minutes of cars crashing into each other but I was SO wrong.
Grand Torino drinking game - Ok, here are the rules, you can only drink Pabst Blue Ribbon and you have to drink whenever Clint Eastwood: shoots someone with his hand, says something racist, the Grand Torino is shown, he drinks a PBR or growls/grunts. It may not seem like much to go on, but by the end of the movie, you'll be falling down drunk.
Ink and Iron Festival - Such a good night! Tattoo expo on the Queen Mary? Live bands? Booze. So good! So fun!
I've just realized how long this is. Ok, I'll stop now.
I've been motivated to post today because those I love and follow have been posting such great New Year's lists and resolutions. (also my boss is out of the office and I'm on the morning shift yay!) So now it's my turn!
My New Year's resolutions last year consisted of...
1. Working on my fitness.
- Yes, I did work on it. I went to Karate. No, I didn't go as often as I should go, but I never stopped going all together. I'm stronger and fitter now than I was last year. I'm an orange belt and I don't regret the hundreds of dollars I've devoted to United Studios of Self Defense, nor do I regret having to be a cheap slut on a budget to keep doing this. Now I'm quitting for a few months to get my school life together, but I made a decision to still go to my cardio class there two days a week so I'm not tempted to just quit all together. I'm on weight watchers. Yeah, thats ALSO hard. Yes, I've been pretty bad lately. But if I just keep tracking, and holding on to Woody's hand when I want to go overboard, I should be able to loose weight. I just want to change my habits, not become half the person I am. So I'll be keeping this resolution.
2. Working on my debt.
- Tis done! I got all my shit paid. I'm not getting calls from collection agencies, or multi colored notices in the mail. If there's any advice I'd give those cheap sluts in debt I'd say DON'T wait for those pretty notices to come in the mail. Be proactive. Call your collectors explain the situation and get your ass in gear to pay it back. They do want their money, and they DO accept payments. Its not fun being buried under those notices.
Despite having gotten rid of all my crazy ass debt, I do have a credit card that is maxed out. I'd like to get that paid off before the year is out. So this is also staying on the resolution list.
3. Saving for my back tattoo.
- This resolution started out so well! I was saving 20-40 dollars a month for this. Then ace got sick, and bills piled up and it got pushed to the side. Truthfully, I think this might come off my list this year because I've got so much on my plate that is just more important. Ink is fun, expensive and not nearly as much of a priority as getting my life together.
4. Continuing my education.
- This I did! Got my diploma from UCSC, got my last few classes finished, applied to grad school (didn't get in) and now have looked over my options and shall apply again to more grad schools. I've taken that step to quit USSD for a few months so that I can expediate the grad school financial proccess without pulling out all my hair. This one's a keeper!
5. Streamlining my life.
- Not so much. I started this blog as a move to track and give advice to those who are moving. In Feburary I've got plans to move in with my boyfriend. I'm nervous and excited all at once. I'm also stressed knowing that my space in his apartment is so limited, that I am surely not going to fit all my crap. Which means I'm actually going to have to streamline my life for real. This is a must for this year's resolutions.
6. Working on great skin.
-If by working on great skin this year I mean I increased my sunscreen intake then yes, I worked on great skin. Lancome is just so expensive! Even with my Partner In Crime's employee discount. Sunscreen is really the key for the summer (you're future face will thank you), and moisturizer is key for the winter.
7. Writing in my paper journal more.
- Fail. I just need to be doing this or blogging more. I can't decide.
8. Reading more edifying books.
- Fail. Edifying books are sometimes NO FUN! So this is another maybe.
9. Stop being such a crazy ass girlfriend.
- Success! With my 2008 goal (Dont be a fucking doormat. Communicate. Be everything you want in others. Dont be afraid of confrontation.) such a success, I've really been able to open up and not make the same mistakes I've made with past relationships. I've never had such a healthy amazing love life in never!
So it looks like we've got...
1. working on my fitness.
2. work on debt.
3. continue my education
4. streamline my life
these added to...
5. drink more water.
- at least 96 ounces a day. Being hydrated is so important to great skin. I love the fact that I don't have to wear too much foundation at this time in my life. With the amount that everyone my age drinks its even MORE important to hydrate, and I've fallen off the wagon of late with leaving my reusable waterbottle at home. (Slut on a budget hint on where to get a eco bottle cheap? Walgreens!)
6. blog more.
- Because I love this shit!
7. drink less booze.
- Alchoholism runs in my family. My grandfather had it, and my great uncle had it. I realize that yep, I like booze a little too much. So honestly, I'm going to try and cut back on it. (just think about those extra calories saved!)
I think I've got a good amount of work ahead of me.
I'll now admit to you a guilty pleasure, lists. I love them. All kinds! I especially love year end lists. I've found some pretty awesome lists of things this year that I'd like to share with you!
Best Books of 2009
Souless by Gail Carriger - A novel of Vampires, Werewolves and Parasols. Steampunk, romance, paranormal suspense? I'm so in. 181 pages into the book and its already a keeper!
Hunger Games and Catching Fire by Suzzane Collins - by far my new favorite series. This is what I'd rather my kids read than Twilight. Post apocolyptic society pits teens against each other to fight to the death. Heroine is fiesty and flawed. I love her. Not a big fan of the cliffhangers but... I'll forgive Suzzane Collins.
Jo Beverly - for the win all year. I powered through her romance series this year and I regret not one moment. I like historical romance with a high end of sexual tension.
SkippyJohn Jones by Judith Byron Schachner- Red this in Seattle for PAX and FELL IN LOVE with this children's book set. A siamese kitten who thinks he's a chihuahua who journeys into his closet for adventures with his chihuahua friends? Score!
Babar's Musem of Art - something I'm sure to read to my kids.
Bet Me by Jennifer Crusie- I loved this romance so much I read it twice in two weeks. It was that good!
Coraline by Neil Gamien- Errie and powerful. Had nightmares not going to lie.
Pride Prejudice and Zombies - While I cannot condone Sense, Sensibility and Seamonsters, I LOVED this one.
Best Beauty, Health and Food Discoveries of 2009
Smashbox Heartbreaker Liquid Liner Pen (http://www.smashbox.com/HEARTBREAKER-LIQUID-LINER-PEN) - I've been way in love with eyeliner. Especially 1960's era eyeliner. The thicker the better. My eyes love it! This pen is SOOOOO EASY! Its like a felt tipped pen! It goes on smooth and its not messy at all!
Getting your hair professionally dyed - it makes such a difference!
bosu ball - if you havent tried this at the gym you MUST. Its a ball with a flat bottom that helps you work your core. Your core helps your posture, walk and balance. I have a love hate relationship with this thing. Use it whenever you'd be on the floor working out. Crunches, push ups, even weights (when turned over and used as a balance board) are about a million times harder on this thing.
ea sports active - harder than I was expecting. Good for a rainy day but probably not a subsitution for your regular workout.
Honey crisp apples - Mmm. My favorite apples, only in season in the winter time. Perfect for eating whole.
Red lipstick- So I never felt comfortable wearing read lipstick until just recently. I had a dress that just screamed for some red accents and my heels were just not doing it. The trick? Try on every single shade of red you possibly can. I am a fan of Lancome's L'Absolu Rouge in Absolute Rouge and Revlon's Matte Lipstick in Really Red. Both of these are orange based that go great with my skin tone and are matte or not super shiney. The shine makes my lips look thin. Alot of people get nervous about wearing red because they buy the wrong color. Wearing the right shade of red will give you a super great boost of confidence.
Vintage and short wedding dresses - I know, I probably SHOULDN'T be thinking about wedding dresses. Its really quite horrible. BUT, when I give into the impuse I keep coming back to Dolly Couture's and Whirling Turban's wedding dresses. They are just so goddamn cute! And tailored to your size since they are custom made. That might put some people off but... not me!
Best Movies and TVof 2009
Star Trek - the newest movie. Underlying sexual tension between Kirk and Spock? Count me in. I don't care if no one else sees it.
The Office - Old news to some, but this series on Netflix on my computer keeps me sane in the Jesus library late at night
Buffy the Vampire Slayer - Another oldie but goodie. I love wasting time on this show.
Watchmen - Alien penis? Score! And despite the die hard comic lover's hate, I really found it at good adaption.
Coraline - Not in 3D! Just as fucking creepy as the book. Jeeze I'll have nightmares about Terri Hatcher's voice for years. Although I do love her pencil skirt.
1990's xmen on DVD - How can I not indulge (FINALLY) in my childhood love of Rouge and Gambit?
Best Websites of 2009
Souless by Gail Carriger - I already gushed about the book. This promotional website is just as awesome. Victorian paper dolls online? YES! So many times yes!
Tastespotting.com - I love this cooking website so much. So many pretty pictures! So many personal blogs. It makes it easy and accessable to first time cooker, me!
Craftzine.com - Always a win for some crafty gift ideas.
BlazedandConfused on Twitter - So you know those ridiculous Harlequin Blaze romances you see in the market and in the used book store? BlazedandConfused tweets the best lines from whatever they are reading at the moment. Hilarity ensues every time I read their tweets.
Smart Bitches, Trashy Books - I can never ever stop gushing about how much I love this blog. Its everything I could ever want!
Best Events of 2009
Disney's Give a Day Get a Day - Technically, its a 2010 event, but I found out about it in 2009. I always thought the "Celebrate your birthday with Disney" was kinda lame, but this new gimmick is totally awesome! Volunteer and get a free day at Disneyland. You'll what Disneyland? You'll *pay* me to volunteer? Score! Add that to the fact that the Jesus library will allow me to take a day with pay to volunteer and its a double score!
Hockey Games - I don't care which team. But I love them, I need to go to more.
Zombie Walks - Also another thing I need to do more.
The Alternative Press Expo - A beautiful fun, less cracktastic alternative to Comic-Con 2009. Sure you won't get the cast of Twilight, but who wants that at their comic book convention? Not me! Support small press and self published authors!
Demolition Derbys and the OC fair - an epic win all around. I did not expect to enjoy 30 minutes of cars crashing into each other but I was SO wrong.
Grand Torino drinking game - Ok, here are the rules, you can only drink Pabst Blue Ribbon and you have to drink whenever Clint Eastwood: shoots someone with his hand, says something racist, the Grand Torino is shown, he drinks a PBR or growls/grunts. It may not seem like much to go on, but by the end of the movie, you'll be falling down drunk.
Ink and Iron Festival - Such a good night! Tattoo expo on the Queen Mary? Live bands? Booze. So good! So fun!
I've just realized how long this is. Ok, I'll stop now.
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