Splatter

A Collection of Treats

2012-01-29T18:55:00.000-08:00

I made another Valentine.

Then I lost inspiration.

I will try to get working again this week.

But I am pretty happy that I've gotten this far ahead!

I ordered myself some tea.

I get a discount through Real Simple,

first heard about the company from the Plume,

and couldn't help myself.

I got a collection of sweet tea that I can't wait to start sampling,

they all smell so good!

This past Saturday was Hartman Creek State Park's candlelight ski/hike.

My parents went last year and by all account had a wonderful time.

While my dad was busy, my mom was glad for the company.

If you get a chance to get to a candlelit even in your area it is completely worth it!

I especially loved it because I knew how much work Fred put into it.

Congratulations to all who helped make the event the absolute success that it was!

Finally, my flowers.

Over break I forgot to remind my roomies

(Jerry)

to water my plants and they didn't make it.

I've been missing them!

So when mom offered me a flower for my room I jumped at the chance!

Now I have to work on getting some rosemary and basil replacements.

I hope you had a beautiful weekend!

Change of Pace

2012-01-21T00:33:00.000-08:00

Cards!

Not just cards,

but Valentines!

Getting to the Bottom

2012-01-20T15:10:00.000-08:00

I'm loosing just a bit of steam,

especially concerning old memories on back order.

Therefore, I offer two more pages before I take a card break.

First up, the Judicial debate mom and I went to last year.

It was a once in a lifetime opportunity as well as a thought provoking experience.

To round everything off I made a page from not so long ago.

Homecoming 2011,

spent in Eau Claire.

A Few More . . .

2012-01-20T08:58:00.000-08:00

I'm so glad I finally got to use this paper.

It's a patterned tissue paper cut into a scrapbook page.

But I love the way the paper speaks for itself

because it's always hard to scrapbook musicals

(this is Thoroughly Modern Millie).

More colorful hockey!

It was cancer awareness night at the rink,

which means different colors-always a good change.

Finally Easter egg dying with the girls.

I tried to capture the ridiculous mood with bright colors and random paint blotches.

Thanks for looking!

There should be Valentine cards coming fairly soon.

To Start With

2012-01-19T00:17:00.000-08:00

I made another goals list.

This time Twenty Things to do Before I'm Twenty-one.

Last years page.

I really like this page because not only does it get me excited about the next year,

but it will also be a testament to how I've grown.

Every year the page will look different,

even if the idea behind it is the same.

I also finished up my page on Tim Minchin.

The End of Florida and a Promise

2012-01-18T15:08:00.000-08:00

Most of the time I spent in Florida reading.

I started and finished The Fault in Our Stars,

then moved on to The Beekeeper's Apprentice.

They were both AWESOME!

And the best part was the sun under which I read them.

Katie tried to show me the best parts of town,

and by that I mean the best places to eat.

On the last day I had a greasy-burger lunch with Kylie and Katie.

Then I found a flower-still weird-right?

I flew back to spend a bit of time in Chicago.

As always I had a great time.

I did have some issues.

I got lost.

And I only took one picture.

This:

I don't know why I didn't try to document other things.

But I really liked the wall . . . .

***

The promise part comes NOW!

I have been working on some new pages to get myself caught up on my scrapbooking.

I figure I'll share them a little at a time.

So look out for the next few days for scrapbook pages galore!

I've Been Around

2012-01-09T09:43:00.000-08:00

It's been a while!

Let me fill you in:

I made an appearance at the first (annual?) Stevens Point Tuba Christmas.

Dad and Claire played and it was nice to see all of the regulars from Waupaca.

When the weekend came there was a party to be had and I did my best to look like a girl.

A big thank you to Claire for all of her help!

(It takes a lot sometimes.)

I had a great time with my room mates and friends

This is Fred-on the left

Have you met my room mate, Caity?

After the party it was back to the grindstone for finals week.

Then home for Christmas.

Being home gave me more time to myself.

I was able to walk both in Hartman Creek State Park with mom,

and across the road with Rube.

It's easy to forget sometimes how lovely winter can be.

Then things started to speed up once again.

I'm in Florida as I write this!

I got here on the forth and I'm heading out again on the eleventh.

All for this girl:

But I have had some time to myself.

In which I have taken full advantage of the sun and I've gotten a lot of reading done.

I finished John Green's newest book The Fault in Our Stars.

It doesn't technically come out until the tenth,

however Barns and Noble sent out some pre-orders early.

I can only say that it was amazing.

Read it.

Have I mentioned how beautiful it is here?

Cause I kind of love it.

While here there has been life changing sauce of last night's supper

(I didn't get a picture-sad panda).

And there have been meals* of frosting and graham crackers.

*And by meals I mean snack-of coarse I didn't eat just that for a lunch . . . DON'T JUDGE!

We also road-tripped over to Jacksonville's MOCA.

They had an interactive insulation.

I'm going to end this post

(there will be more)

with the best thing.

EVER.

Frozen yogurt like Cold Stone-but all self serve.

And it's frozen yogurt so I can eat more!

I hope you're having a great new year!

Bits of a Monday

2011-12-12T12:43:00.000-08:00

I realized I hadn't blogged in a while,

and I thought I should rectify that situation.

So here it is . . .

My life,

right before finals week.

I've locked myself in my room,

and the only reason you're hearing from me now is because

I FINISHED that essay!

Not only did I finish it though,

I OWNED IT!

Anyway, this is my life.

In my room.

Cause I couldn't leave it.

This is my drawer,

that hold my goodies.

I have candy,

but I also have (had would be a more accurate statement)

oatmeal scotchies that I made last night

with a really cool person,

before we watched White Christmas.

(Love that movie!)

This is one of two packages that came today.

This is a gift for a really classy girl.

The other was scrapbooking things.

(Opps indulgence!)

This was breakfast on top of the book I had to write an essay about.

Did I mention I FINISHED that?!?

I'm still pretty excited!

Here is my window sill.

It's pretty neat.

I have rosemary and moustaches right next to the picture in a frame (my daddy!)

This is my dog,

a long time ago.

And my second sock.

(An update for the knitters:

I turned the heel

and I might actually finish a pair by the end of the year!

Go me right!

Never thought this could actually happen!)

This is my wrapping.

Cause it's completely free.

I hope you have a good Monday!

I'm going to get back to homework.

What Made Me Happy Today

2011-12-01T16:39:00.000-08:00

Waking up to a light snowfall

Long names (hypens-included!)

My new(ish) boots

Exciting adventures planned (and also not) for this weekend

Blueberry bagels & raspberry tea

Plane tickets*

Ben & Jerry's finest

*that means an epic reunion, complete with running, squealing, hugs, and quite possibly tears

Black Friday Madness

2011-11-25T16:50:00.000-08:00

I might have stayed up late,

but I got up late too.

Then . . .

I scrapbooked!

I finally scraped some of the long lost memories of Eau Claire!

I even made a card with some scraps I had lying around on my desk!

Throughly Modern Millie!

2011-11-22T07:12:00.000-08:00

The show was nothing short of AMAZING!

I just wanted to share this picture from Saturday.

Four gorgious ladies,

thanks for a great night!

From Left to Right: Me, Jess, Emily, and Jessica.

This week is Thanksgiving!

I'll try to pop in and say something,

share some pictures,

between essays I procrastinated on.

= )

Lazy Saturday

2011-11-19T12:26:00.000-08:00

November is getting busy,

and December is just around the corner!

Are you ready?

I'm so not.

I have some Christmas gifts,

but I don't even have ideas for some others!

Today though, I woke and my roommates made breakfast!

I put on my slippers and started my English project.

I got quite a bit done and decided it was time for a break.

I got drank some more tea and nibbled on fresh rye bread I got yesterday.

(I am in love with Amherst!)

Then I got started on my Christmas cards!

Here are a few:

Tonight I'm going to Throughly Modern Millie again tonight!

(I went last week too-it's just that good!)

If you live near by and you haven't seen it yet GO!

It's closing so get your tickets fast!

Ready

2011-11-10T07:42:00.000-08:00

We had our first snow fall yesterday.

After my day was done and the snow took a break I went for a walk with a new friend.

I had to stop at this point to take a picture,

the colors were beautiful,

the seasons,

for once,

were all together.

It was a perfect moment to hold on to,

to breathe with,

and to remember.

Yesterday was a good day.

Snow always makes me feel like a little kid again!

I stomped around in my new boots,

ate some Greek food like it was going out of style,

and painted my self a soup bowl for colder times.

I'm ready for this winter.

I'm ready for fun times,

and serious conversations.

For movie marathons,

and cookie baking.

I'm ready for ice skating,

hot chocolate,

and skiing.

I'm ready.

Hope you didn't get too angry at the snow.

I Made Robot Cupcakes!

2011-11-04T12:57:00.000-07:00

A huge thanks to Dorrie for making this happen!

I LOVE them!

A Perfect Fall Weekend: Part 2!

2011-10-30T19:25:00.000-07:00

Bet you didn't see this one coming!

To be honest I didn't either.

But here it is:

I made a litter cake.

Then I dressed up as a crazy cat lady.

Claire helped but Sneakers really made it work,

you know-pulled the whole thing together.

Yup.

Random.

A Perfect Fall Weekend

2011-10-29T18:54:00.000-07:00

I went home this weekend to see an old friend (and second father),

and to take care of my aunt's cat.

My sister had to work and I had some time to kill,

I decided that today was the perfect day for a nature walk.

I took advantage of the Ice Age Trail that meanders through Waupaca.

It was perfect,

calming,

meditative,

and just what I needed this week.

Also,

Claire, Caity and I carved pumpkins this week.

Mine is winking!

Have a great Halloween!

I'm Joinin' Up

2011-10-26T08:12:00.000-07:00

So, I have this ancestor . . .

he's pretty neat.

He fought in the Revolutionary War.

Because he did, I am eligible to join some of the coolest ladies around!

They're in the DAR

(Daughters of the American Revolution).

I'll be joining my aunt's chapter Ah-Dah-Wa-Gam.

This is the official paper signing before I sent my application off to be reviewed.

I'm really excited to join these ladies.

It'll be a ton of fun!

My aunt is on the far left, me in the middle, and the chapter regent, Diana, on the right.

This is the chapter registrar, Char, and I going over the papers one last time.

I just wanted to share this with you.

I'm really excited about all of it!

Thanks to member Cindy for the photos!

Cards on Friday!

2011-10-15T13:45:00.000-07:00

This post is just for the eyes.

Enjoy.

Oh, also I finally scraped our trip to Florida last winter.

Inspiration and the Final Card

2011-10-14T09:20:00.000-07:00

When moving all of my scrapbooking/card supplies into my Point house

I started playing with some different papers.

This is what the playing turned up.

A few days later I realized that I needed a birthday card for a good friend of mine.

This is the final product.

Have a good weekend

Eau Claire Visit

2011-10-09T14:52:00.000-07:00

I made a road trip over to the UW in Eau Claire.

I saw some familiar faces,

met a few new people,

and watched a homecoming game that wasn't mine.

(Though mine was at the same time.)

I started my weekend downtown,

slurping tea and running my fingers across used book spines.

(My wallet was not having as much fun as I was.)

Then we all headed over to my ex-RA's new place.

It was a full out girl-party over there.

She was holding an Arbonne party and we all had a nice relaxing time.

Face masks and foot baths are the best way to end a Friday!

You round it all off with good friends and silly chat,

I couldn't have asked for a better time.

After a completely girly sleep-over it was time for the homecoming festivities to begin.

Starting with the parade.

Eau Claire played the UW-Oshkosh Titans.

The theme was "Sink the Titans"

There was a general lack of cloths in the warm mid-day collage town celebration.

No complaints here. =)

After a caf lunch-

in which I remembered how glad I am that I don't have to eat in a place like that anymore,

and that even if I did I truly believe that Point's food is generally better than Eau Claire's is/was-

we went to the game.

I don't actually have any photos of football but my friends and the band is more important.

Eau Claire lost by seven points.

So did Point (to Stout).

But the game was pretty intense,

and if our QB had remembered to drink water in the unseasonal heat,

and he hadn't gotten sick as a result,

he might have been able to throw the ball a little better,

therefore giving Eau Claire another touch-down,

and a homecoming win.

I don't know what Point's problem was.

It was probably as inexcusable.

So that was my weekend.

I'm making some stew now and I'm excited that fall is underway

even though it is so warm-

it means I can have stew and ice cream without feeling weird.

I just call it seasonal!

This One is for Apple.

2011-10-06T15:31:00.000-07:00

Here's to the crazy ones.

The misfits.

The rebels

The troublemakers.

The round pegs in the square hole.

The ones who see things differently.

They're not fond of rules.

And they have no respect for the status quo.

You can quote them,

disagree with them,

glorify or vilify them.

About the only thing you can't do is ignore them.

Because they change things.

They push the human race forward.

And while some may see them as the crazy ones,

we see genius.

Because the people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world,

are the ones who do.

RIP Steve Jobs.

I know I will miss you.

Epiphany!

2011-10-06T08:26:00.000-07:00

Did you know that apple desserts were not created equal?

I didn't.

But then I made an apple crisp.

SO much easier than an apple pie!

AND so much better!

From now on this is a crisp-only-house

Unless, you know, it's necessary to make pie on like a special occasion or something cause pie is still old fashioned, rustic and what not so I don't want to just eliminate it. Just minimize it a little I guess.

Anyway.

I have fallen for the crisp.

In a big way.

Pear-Almost-Pie-Thing

2011-10-05T08:03:00.000-07:00

Jerry brought home pears last week.

This means I have to do something with them.

(At least that's my interpretation and no one has stopped me yet!)

I wanted to try the almost-pie dessert I've been seeing all over the food blogs I follow.

Presenting the Honey Pear Galette:

I'm not going to share the recipe because,

while it worked out in the end,

the recipe was flawed.

Beyond that I don't know if I'll ever make this again.

I wasn't mind-blowingly-amazing or anything like that.

It wasn't bad and I'm glad I tried it,

but I don't see me using this recipe again.

The concept . . .

maybe.

The recipe . . .

probably not.

In other news

I have so much to share!

So stay tuned

this blog is going to be hoppin' in the next few days!

Have a nice cup of tea this morning and enjoy the turning of seasons

(if your seasons are turning).

Kokie

Sundays are Best for Breathing

2011-09-18T19:36:00.000-07:00

Today I woke to finish an English essay.

I went off to work

only to return home to plan suppers for this week.

In between planing and Hulu

I wrote some letters,

readied a package,

and generally prepared myself for the week ahead.

I like the feel of Sundays,

especially when it's raining.

It's calm,

breathing in

and out.

I'm ready week-

bring it on.

Today is a Day for Making

2011-09-13T14:31:00.000-07:00

Today is a Tuesday.

A rather cold one in these part.

There was a lot of convincing to be done so that a 8AM Spanish class would be attended

and the warm bed would become abandoned.

Fall is really upon us.

And I have apple!

Courtesy of my mother and her broken car I got a whole bag full of crab apples.

That is when I decided a pie must be made.

I started with a Martha Stewart crust:

Mixed my fruit with some cinnamon and sugar.

This is the best part of apple pie.

Eating the sugary spiced apples.

Is that not the best pie you've seen all day?

I know right!

In other news I found that the BBC's Sherlock is pretty FREAKIN' AWESOME!

(To be honest I think all of the BBC is awesome. Their accents, their programing, their news. I love it all.)

And also that I can knit quite well while watching is on Netfix.

(I really like to multitask.)

So as one thing leads to another,

I would like to announce that I have finally finished my sock.

That's right,

just the one I've been working on all summer.

So time for the next one . . .

. . . I'll let you know how that goes . . .

Movin' In

2011-09-05T10:07:00.000-07:00

I mentioned briefly that I was going to UW Stevens Point instead of Eau Claire in the fall.

Well that happened.

I'm in and settled as of yesterday's blackberry cobbler.

In the three short days I've been here I've done a lot.

I adopted this cute couple for my very own.

Yesterday I went to a chilly Jazz fest with these beautiful people.

When the cold got the better of us we abandoned the park for the kitchen

and Tony and I went to work.

All in all it's already been a pretty crazy time.

I can't wait for more of the same!

I almost forgot!

I made today my baking day.

I made zucchini bread from the foot and a half long beast my mother bestowed on me.

Jerry (my roomy/landlord) had some blue berries he didn't know what to do with so I made muffins.

They're a little anemic, but super tasty!

Have a bright day!

Peach Scones

2011-08-31T19:43:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is my last day of work at the schools for the summer.

In honor of leaving Sandy I made scones for tomorrow.

I found the recipe on TasteSpotting,

like I find all of them really.

For more fun check out this recipe.

Peach cobbler for one!

Iceland

2011-08-29T22:47:00.000-07:00

I have fallen in love with Iceland.

It only took one video in the dark of the night and I was hooked.

Here it is.

I hope you enjoy as much as I did.

It's defiantly on my bucket list now!

Crossing Things Off the List

2011-08-12T12:42:00.000-07:00

About a year ago I made a list.

Eating sushi was one of the things I wanted to do before I was twenty.

I didn't make the deadline but I had a great time with the girls.

It's a new favorite food!

After sushi we met up with Robbie (Katie's brother) and ate ice cream.

Lots of ice cream.

Misadventures

2011-08-10T19:14:00.000-07:00

Sometimes my baking is a disaster.

I haven't blogged about these moment much,

but I'm sure there will come a day when you will see all of my wrongs.

Until then I present you with this.

One of my besties telling her side of a cake that fell to pieces when I tried to take it out of the pan.

Enjoy,

Kokie

Thank Yous and Baked Goods

2011-08-09T15:42:00.000-07:00

It's been over a week now since closing night of Sweeny Todd

and I still don't seem to have my free time back.

I've been so busy I forgot to post my cards and treats for closing night.

Playing a little catch up here they are:

This is my favorite I think.

Sparkly but not too girly!

Oh, but then there is this one.

I love the simplicity of the card.

I liked this one so much I made two.

This card is the first hint of fall in my crafting.

The pumpkin ribbon

(it really is pumpkin in real life)

reminds me of fall harvest and rich fall colors.

On to the baking:

These are lemon cupcakes with a lemon buttercream frosting.

Per Jess' request.

They were amazing and a definite do again.

I got the recipe here, via tastespotting.

These are specially packaged thank yous for people I didn't make cards for.

When I say I have no time I really mean it.

I made literally five cards this go around.

I felt bad because this year there were so many wonderful people who helped out

and I didn't make enough cards for everyone.

This is a strawberry white chocolate chip cake from The Cake Keepers Cake.

It is so moist and yummy it was hard to simply give it up.

Good Ol' Wisconsin Tavern

2011-08-07T19:58:00.000-07:00

This friday my parents took my sister and I out to eat.

A Wisconsin Friday fish fry.

Side-note:

If you have ever been in Wisconsin on a Friday

and not gone out for fish

you missed an opportunity of a life time

and you simply must come back to give it a try.

On the same line of thinking . . .

Squeaky cheese curds

-direct from the dairy!-

are also a big must for this area.

Any-who.

My parents wanted to try out a new place just around the corner.

We walked in and were met by Packer paraphernalia all over,

in and amongst the deer heads.

We sat down and and ordered.

There was beer on tap

and the bar was the most prominent aspect of the place.

Everyone was friendly

and I could have talked to anyone,

staff or patrons,

about whatever for quite sometime.

It is Wisconsin.

Today I was listening to a Joy the Baker Podcast.

(One of my new favorites!)

And they were talking about red flags.

The tavern we ate at qualified for just about everyone.

But it, and places like it, still have a place in my heart.

Maybe it's because I'm still young

and therefore I'm still up for the adventure

rather than ensuring an excellent experience every meal.

Whatever the case,

I love me some back country taverns.

Thanks for letting me share.

Kokie

Also-I'm not saying their advice isn't sound.

It is.

Don't go to places with ten page menus,

that't too much.

But I encourage you to adventure.

Cause that's what life is all about.

Milwaukee Monday

2011-08-03T15:23:00.000-07:00

Monday was an adventure day.

I picked Emily up in Waupaca and made the trek to Milwaukee

(with a quick stop for Jess on the way)

We ended up in the Milwaukee county zoo,

with the elephants.

(Brittany is in back and Lucy in the foreground)

(Lucy)

The giraffe-who really likes the wall,

and the large cats.

This jaguar was not happy with the tiger below.

It was pretty interesting . . .

the tiger and jaguar were roaring,

and getting closer.

All while the lion around the corner watched with disinterest.

We had a fabulous time!

Then we hit up the butterfly house!

Jess got one to land on her finger.

I got one to land on my knee.

It was really peaceful to sit with the humidifiers and the light beating wings.

The bright flowers, and blurred colors fling by.

I recommend a greenhouse full of butterflies to anyone who is in need of a vacation.

After getting out of the zoo

and finding a Walmart for all of our grilling needs

we made it to Miller Park.

To tailgate of coarse!

While we missed the first pitch,

and Cincinnati's first two points,

we had great seats,

and a wonderful time!

The Brewers won too!

6-2

All together a great day and I can't wait until my next adventure!

Until then, thanks for reading.

Getting Old

2011-07-29T21:34:00.000-07:00

It's not the end of July yet so I can say this.

My birthday was earlier this month,

I'm in my twenties now!

So I wanted to let you all know,

I'm taking the next decade of my life super seriously.

As you can see:

Plans?

2011-07-21T12:38:00.000-07:00

What are you doing this weekend?

What about next weekend?

You should be making your way to Waupaca.

Why you ask?

For the Waupaca Community Theatre's

2011 Production of Sweeny Todd of course!

I'm stage managing again this year.

But it'll be a little different.

You'll see me!

EEEKKK!

They put me in a costume and I get to go ANYWHERE I want!

(Like that ever stopped me before.)

It's shaping up to be a great performance.

The cast and crew is great, and I love working with everyone!

Also there is blood, guts, and dropping dead people though secret holes in the floor.

So come on down!

Enjoy the show!

Friday Ritual

2011-07-15T20:35:00.000-07:00

Every Friday my mom and I (and sometimes Claire) sit on the square downtown

and listen to The Waupaca City Band from 7 to 8.

It's a nice relaxing concert for the end of the week.

(Dad is the one on the far left.)

My Life Right Now.

2011-07-13T20:58:00.000-07:00

Is in my bag.

Which is this:

I am prepared for anything.

Sweeny Todd

(opens next Friday)

here I come!

Breakfast of Scones

2011-07-09T10:16:00.000-07:00

I had the day off today.

So after some well needed sleep I woke to make breakfast.

Yesterday we served scones at the Inn.

I was inspired to try my hand at them.

I have made berry and sweet scones before, but the savory is a new experience.

I love this recipe!

It was pretty simple and I had all the ingredients handy.

(By handy I mean I used my mom's half and half that she uses for her coffee in place of heavy cream)

They turned out great.

This was originally a King Arthur Flour recipe that I found through TasteSpotting.

Pita Chips

2011-07-02T18:36:00.000-07:00

Take some tortillas, butter, and garlic.

Mix the butter and garlic.

(Other spices would work just as well-or omit them all together)

Spread this garlic packed bit of awesome on a tortilla.

Bake at 350 for 5-7 minutes until golden and crispy.

Enjoy.

Cookies. Super Chocolaty Ones!

2011-06-28T20:51:00.000-07:00

Tuesday is my new baking day,

it being the day before knitting club

(sooner or later I'll remember to take some pictures and show you what I'm up to).

These cookies come from a blog I found on TasteSpotting.

I haven't tasted them yet.

But they were easy to make,

and the batter tasted good-

so they have to be semi-awesome at the very least.

Peace, love, and cookies,

Kokie

Be-Bop Boo-Bob Rhubarb Cupcakes!

2011-06-22T20:13:00.000-07:00

I've made Rhubarb crisp, heard of Rhubarb jam and even Rhubarb pie,

but never have I ever imagined a Rhubarb cupcake.

It happened though.

It was one of those recipes you try because you have to.

By knowing the recipe exists the gauntlet has been cast down.

I had no choice.

For those who don't know when someone-or in this case

-something-

throws down the gauntlet the challenge must be accepted.

There is no turning back.

The gauntlet throwing is like a double-dog-dare,

on steroids!

Scary stuff man.

Scary stuff.

I whipped this together last night

doing my cooking dance around the kitchen

while listening to NCIS from the other room.

Then magic happened.

Magic always happens when I bake,

but especially so when making Rhubarb.

Turning something that is rather (SUPER-DUBPER!) tart

into a dessert seems unnatural.

The kind of thing only magic (of the Harry Potter variety) can achieve.

They were good.

A do-again for sure.

May the force be with you.

Kokie

PS: In case you noticed, which you probably did because you are, of coarse, very astute (being one of my blog readers you must be-also you're beautiful-thought you should know), I capitalized Rhubarb. Because it is a regal fruit(?).

As noted to make it into things requires magic (and sugar-lots of it.)

But it also requires respect-as all ingredients do-so they will work together for me.

Thats why I capitalize Rhubarb, just in case you were interested/worried about me/puzzled/intrigued.

PPS: This post with all of its silliness is what happens when a tired girl gets a hold of the world wide web to explain how magical baking can be.

I've Been Rather Busy

2011-06-16T19:55:00.000-07:00

I went fishing with my dad and a good friend.

I baked Allie french toast.

And whipped up a quiche for Claire.

I also made rhubarb crisp

and blueberry muffins but I have no photo evidence.

I'll try and be better about posts and whatnot-really!

Today

2011-06-05T18:36:00.000-07:00

I cuddled with an oak tree.

Starting the Process

2011-06-01T14:47:00.000-07:00

I've got a lot to scrap.

But I've got a whole summer to do it.

In between work and sleep I'll try to bob in and show you what I've been working on.

[Protesting in Madison]

[Claire's Graduation Picture]

[Jackson's Birthday card]

Saying Good-Bye

2011-05-31T06:46:00.000-07:00

There are so many things to say,

but I loose the words.

What can I say that really means something?

I miss her.

But together we will still have adventures,

inside jokes,

and awkward moments.

Girl,

you know.

Also- I love you.

Two Day Celebration

2011-05-23T16:31:00.000-07:00

Sunday started and ended with cookies.

Dad is getting older.

(Today actually-one year older!)

And he needed ten dozen cookies for students and faculty.

Katie and I took the challenge.

In between the batches of chocolaty goodness there was a choir concert and tornado scare.

There was also a supper of jambalaya and cheesecake

Then tonight I grilled chicken, sautéed some asparagus, and make a salad.

Fresh, and simply delicious.

Crafty Friday

2011-05-20T13:59:00.000-07:00

Breakfast!

2011-05-17T19:33:00.000-07:00

Horse Play

2011-05-15T19:08:00.000-07:00

Sometime last week,

when the weather was really nice we took advantage.

We played Ninja!

The rules are pretty simple.

1. Stand in a circle.

2. You have one continuous move to hit, and one continuous move to dodge.

3. The goal is to hit someone's hand with your hand to get them out.

4. Turns for moving go clockwise, but you can hit anyone around you.

5. Move out of turn and you're out.

It can get pretty intense.

(Like camping!)

After a while we got board and I tried to learn how to do a cart wheel.

It didn't go well.

People laughed

And occupied themselves with lifts.

(Yeah, my friends are that cool.)

But we tried again.

This time in sync.

She made it happen.

I wasn't as good.

The teaching continued . . .

Then we gave up.

I love Putnam in the spring!

Winner!

2011-05-03T07:23:00.000-07:00

Guess which lucky girl won this beauty last night?!?

[Source]

That's right THIS girl!

I was chillin' at my desk last night,

ignoring the world and winding down with a little Monk on Netflix,

(Best thing EVER!)

When I got a phone call.

My dad.

Who said to me "Go to the Plume."

I obliged, but was pretty confused

until he qualified that mom was pulling the stings on this operation.

The site loaded and I scrolled, and I scrolled . . .

Then . . . I SCREAMED!

Then . . . I JUMPED!

I am SO happy right now.

I love Mrs. Plume and all of her creations.

Her life is one that I look to.

It's beautiful in all ways!

Now I have another (I have a pair of Old Soul Earrings) part of her,

and her work to keep with me.

My Corner

2011-04-28T09:34:00.000-07:00

A cup of earl grey and a John Green live show.

So much for homework.

At least it's Thursday.

Easter Weekend

2011-04-26T16:30:00.000-07:00

Thursday

School

Parents

Norske Nook

Home

Friday

Claire & Katie

Orientation

Emily

Six Bunny Pan

Lava Cake

Midwest Teen Sex

Disney Scene it

Noodles

The Fringe

Mike

Home

(Sabres Win)

Saturday

Eggs, TIME, and Katie

Rice Crispy Bunny

The Che

Balloon puzzle

Spanish colors (anna-ran-hot-o)

Allie

Blowing eggs

Supper

Dying Eggs

Tape contraptions

Soulmates

Water for Elephants

Hugs, goodbyes

Home

Sunday

Family

Lunch

Recital

(Beautiful piano music!)

(Sabres loose)

Mike

Ice Cream

Home

Monday

Pack

Drive

Norske Nook

School

Tales From a Tuesday

2011-04-26T10:48:00.000-07:00

Today it's back to real life.

Back to school,

homework,

essays,

and procrastination.

I had a long Easter weekend!

I got to go home on Thursday evening

and I came back yesterday afternoon.

It was extra long because I had to attend orientation at UW-Stevens Point.

I'm going there-I don't think I told you.

Then there were Easter activities to partake in.

What's Happenin'?

2011-04-19T07:20:00.000-07:00

I always enter giveaways,

but I never expect much.

This time was different.

I entered for sparkly moustaches.

Wouldn't you?!?

And this time,

I won.

Happy Birthday to Today's Letters!

I hope the years to come will be as fun as the last.

In other news

. . .

The Sabres have made it to the Stanley Cup playoffs.

We have game three of our six game series tomorrow.

We won the first game,

but lost the last two.

It's okay though.

Gerbe scored last night!

[Source]

VOTE!

2011-04-05T07:12:00.000-07:00

If you live in Wisconsin today is Supreme Court Election Day!

I went to the debate in Madison over Spring Break.

Look up the candidates.

Educate yourself.

Then vote.

We all know what happened last time people didn't go out to drop a ballot in a box.

*Cough* Walker *Cough*

So go.

Make your voice heard.

Dreaming

2011-04-04T17:51:00.000-07:00

I took a little walk today.

I let the wind whip around me and bring the rose to my cheeks.

All day I have been admiring the blue of the sky from the wrong side of my window,

afraid of the chilling winds that had whipped me around the few times I went out.

I braved it after I went to supper to find the breeze had died down.

...

I was sketching out some randomness yesterday during a lower campus blackout.

The hearts came from a Valentine card from my grandpa.

I figure I'll use them on a page sometime soon.

(Look for them.)

The more my mind wandered the more I thought about all the things I would love to bake.

I am so excited to have six weeks left!

Six weeks and I can have a kitchen on a regular basis once again.

I'm excited to see what I can cook up with all of the fresh ingredients Nature will provide!

...

I can see the end of the hockey season.

It is approaching fast and I don't want to see it end.

But I think it's fun to see how the standings are shaking out,

and which players are starting to shine.

(I want it known that I had faith in Gerbe and Enroth from the start!)

~Always an Adventure~

Kokie

PS Check out Claire's new blog!

Thoughts From a Thursday . . .

2011-03-31T14:51:00.000-07:00

Yesterday started like most Wednesdays.

At somewhere between 7 and 7:30 depending on the motivation.
A cup of tea and some cold wind add to the bad attitude to the two hour class I have in store.
I finished up with classes for the day though, and I released something.
I had no pressing homework.
I could take it all at a leisurely pace and at the end of the day
(6 o'clock on the dot)

I could stop and watch what was to be an exciting hockey game.
Then I got a voicemail.
I was on babysitting duty for some friends.

A few hours later I was sword fighting and running around with 3 boys.
I had the time of my life.
I was a little reluctant.
The Sabres were playing the Rangers!
(You would be too-really.)
But I made it happen.
I danced to Baby Mozart,
raced a video game car
(crashed would be a more accurate statement),
won a pillow fight,
lost another one,
and loved every minute of it.

I didn't grow up with boys.
They're gross and have coodies.
But I guess there are the occasional few
who put Clone War decals on their wall,
know the finesse it takes to jump up and down to classical music,
and understand the finer points of sword play,
and those guys are the ones that are all right in my book.

Thanks for a great night.

~Always an Adventure~
Kokie

PS Sabres won and we're tied for 7th!

[Source]

Way to steal my heart Enroth.

Scrapbooking Break

2011-03-23T11:21:00.000-07:00

The Buffalo Sabres game two-page-spread.

Not the most artsy,

but defiantly the most fun!

Jambalaya and a Cookie Feeling

2011-03-22T21:40:00.000-07:00

Supper tonight was Brown Rice Jambalaya

(via Big Girls Small Kitchen).

This was the first time I've made it,

also the first time I've ever had it.

Mark my words-

It will NOT be the last.

I love it.

I love my people.

We decided over supper that Katie and I will take vacations together.

We will go to places like

Paris,

Ireland,

New Orleans,

pretty much the world.

Super excited!

Also, while setting the mood for the meal I put on The Princess and the Frog soundtrack.

If you haven't seen this yet, do.

Rent it,

stream it,

whatever you must do.

It's awesome!

Claire came home after work and I fixed her a second supper.

Off the cuff buttered noodles with tomatoes and parmesan.

I also got the cookie feeling.

I love that making chocolate chip cookies is no longer an activity.

It's a feeling,

an emotion.

I looked at Katie,

both of us still full from supper and said,

"I feel like we should make cookies."

Her reply was the best ever,

"YEAH!"

And that's why I made cookies.

No other reason.

Just a feeling.

Chocolate and Banana Love

2011-03-22T07:46:00.000-07:00

Another TasteSpotting recipe.

This one was much easier.

Chocolate Chip Banana Muffins.

YUM!

Let the Adventures Begin!

2011-03-21T13:44:00.000-07:00

I'm home.

Which means I'm baking!

I found this really cool website

and I've been stock piling recipes in preparation for this week.

First up,

Earl Grey Cupcakes with Citrus Swiss Meringue Buttercream Frosting.

They

were

DECADENT!

The cupcakes weren't too sweet and were a little dry just on their own.

Paired with the frosting and it was perfect!

The frosting wasn't thick,

often a problem I have with cake toppings.

(Thank goodness for meringue!)

I picked the recipe thinking it would be interesting to try.

They were quite a lot of work,

and introduced me to the art of meringue making,

but it was all worth it!

Next up, dinner.

I made the one-dish chicken that you might remember me swearing against.

I tried it again.

This time under more guidance and with a better oven.

Much better results!

I've got to attend to the Chocolate Chip Banana Muffins in the oven.

Have a great Monday evening!

Noisy Weekend Part II

2011-03-07T08:39:00.000-08:00

I woke up on Sunday morning too excited to be tired.

Mom dropped me off in Point,

the first stop in this journey,

and I got all suited up.

I wore #16 Pat Lafontaine.

(I think it was a sign, my birthday being the 16th and all.)

I got in another car and drove 3 hours straight to St. Paul MN.

The second capitol in as many days.

After a little get-to-know-you chat and dinner,

it was hockey time!

The Buffalo Sabres took on the Minnesota Wilds.

It was a super exciting game-

and I saw it LIVE!

We got up by one right away,

thanks to Pominville

with a beautiful set up courtesy of Vanek, and Montador.

It was the second period that the miracles were worked.

Rob Niedermayer got his first goal of the season!

I have faith that he'll finish off the season with a least one hat trick.

The Wilds made a comeback before the period ended though,

so we came into the third tied at two.

Without a goal, I still spent the third period on the edge of my seat.

There was shot after shot that should have gone in on either end of the ice.

McCormick got into a fight, and beat the guy.

So while not statistically impressive, I was excited!

Finally we ended the third tied.

With the one point ensured to the Sabres we had just pulled ourselves into 8th place in the Eastern Conference.

You know what that means?

The official "Sabres-are-in-the-playoffs" dance took up the third intermission.

We celebrated with the other Buffalo fans around us,

and then settled back in to bite our nails for the overtime period.

Stafford made my night.

Single-handedly throwing the puck back where it belonged.

And in the words of Adam,

"We all have a Stafford infection!"

So we won.

We're going to the playoffs.

And I'm defiantly going back.

I still have to see a Gerbe goal,

and Miller in the net!

I'm in love.

PS: This is a really good read, props to Adam (again).

Noisy Weekend Part I

2011-03-07T08:18:00.000-08:00

There was a lot of driving this weekend.

I started by going home.

On Saturday I ventured down to Madison with my family

We walked around the capitol a few times,

chanted,

held signs,

and tried to get into the building.

We were first in line when the clock struck four, and we were out of luck.

When our thighs were substantially numb we decided it was time for some grub.

After dinner we went to a Lou & Peter concert.

The concert benefited the Madison teacher union and was all around fun.

If you live in Wisconsin,

or Minnesota and Illinois for that matter,

I encourage you to stop by Madison.

Walk a few laps around the capitol.

It's a beautiful feeling.

Meeting people you'll probably never see again,

and feeling a brotherhood.

Standing together,

agreeing,

politely gathering asking to be heard.

So if you haven't been down, go.

If you have, thank you!

Start the Weekend Off Right

2011-02-19T10:39:00.000-08:00

This week has been CRAZY!

I had a Bio test,

and in week four of the second semester school is really starting to pick up.

Then there was this, and this, also this.

If you don't live in or around WI,

or if you have been living under a rock lately,

this is what you've missed.

I walked out of class on Thursday to be part of a rally on campus.

[Not my Picture]

It has been ridiculous,

personal,

and stressful

to watch all of this happening in my state,

and my home.

I'm so proud of Wisconsinites!

At the same time

I'm angry that Walker was elected in the first place.

On a lighter note.

I made it to a grocery store and made crab rangoons yesterday.

I'm so excited for when this baking/cooking thing can be an everyday thing,

rather than a special occasion thing.

I hope you're weekend is great!

Quick, Enjoy!

2011-02-16T16:58:00.000-08:00

I have to post this quick,

before the warm weather goes away!

I wore just this outside,

at night,

in February,

in Wisconsin!

I had a nice dinner in my room tonight watching the Sabre's opening period.

Then I decided I would walk up the hill and treat my self to some Ben and Jerry's.

This is the plan for the rest of the night!

Sorry about the grumpy face in the first photo,

I don't know why I decided I needed to be serious . . .

Details about the outfit:

The scarf is all the way from Ecuador from my beautiful sister!

The iPod is my favorite accessory,

today it was playing BBC and Sabres podcasts.

(I'm a sucker for the BBC.

The news doesn't seem as depressing

when the guy telling you about it has an English accent.)

Izze

2011-02-10T11:03:00.000-08:00

Today is almost the weekend,

so I treated myself to an Izze

while I read about animal rights

and wait for my laundry to finish.

Did I mention I'm listening to Classical music?

It was on my list of 19 things to do before I'm 20

and I'm thoroughly enjoying the violins.

When I was little I fancied myself playing one,

but left handed.

I don't really know why.

But I play my air guitar left handed.

(By bass too.)

It's a Trap!

2011-02-09T07:57:00.000-08:00

Watch out!

It must be.

It's already Wednesday and its been an incredible week so far!
Let's start at the beginning . . .

Sunday:

I am a Packers fan,

not a devout one,

but if it's a good game-I'll watch.

So Sunday there was this game.

It was scary,

exhilarating,

in a word:

AWESOME!

Monday:

My roommate has some chair issues.

We attempted to fix it.

And by "we" I mean I handed over the duct-tape,

then sat back and laughed a lot.

It's still a little broken.

Tuesday:

Getting in touch with our girlie sides

my roomie and I painted our nails.

And watched the Bachelor.

Don't judge.

Also, I got another Etsy package.

Another shirt I've been looking at for a long time.

Finally a reality!

Week Overall:

This whole week is bitter cold!

But that just gives me an excuse to wrap up in my warmest scarf.

A gift from this past Christmas from my lovely Florida friends.

AND

I'm sporting my new Yoda pin.

Another gift, this time from a library buddy.

Hope your week is just as good

(if not better!)

Snacking On

2011-02-04T17:14:00.000-08:00

I was in the organic store on campus this week,

I was there quite a bit actually,

my money doesn't roll over into next semester so

I've been experimenting in natural and organic foods.

I did this back home too, but this is more fun.

Everything I buy I get to eat!

I don't have to worry about someone else snacking on something

before I get a chance to try it.

So while I was in there I found natural Yogurt Pretzels.

They are my new obsession.

I love them.

They are sweet,

salty,

smooth,

and just enough crisp-crunch.

I might spend the rest of my "food dollars" on this new addiction!

Okay, so the Izzys, burritos, and Silk are good too.

Hockey Weekend

2011-01-30T11:08:00.000-08:00

I love hockey.

Last weekend I went to a game,

and as soon as I get those pictures from Katie the story will be told.

In the meantime let's just say I had a fantabulous time!

So much so that I made the 2 1/2 hour drive this past Friday

to catch another game with the girls.

It was cancer night at the K. B. Willet Arena so I,

along with a conglomeration of Pointers blacked out the Eau Claire Blugolds.

(Did you catch the irony?)

The Pointers were sporting a flashy pink lined jersey,

and let me tell you, they looked good.

Damn good.

Point beat Eau Claire with a final score of 6-1.

Did I mention:

You have a hole in your goalie

Eau Claire

A hole in your goalie . . .

I digress.

(Full recap here if you feel the need-make sure to check out the pictures)

The rest of the weekend was ridiculous fun.

No really, I don't know how it happened,

and I don't remember what I did really,

I just remember laughing a lot.

Also, I made pizza.

And cookies.

Because really, what is life without cookies?

Oh, right.

Not as cool.

I hope you enjoyed your weekend.

I know I did.

I realized how lucky I am when I walked out of a friends house

just before 11 last night

and looked up past the street light to admire the snow fall.

This weekend was beautiful and I couldn't have asked for a better one.

Let's hope the week follows suit.

A True Nerdfighter

2011-01-27T14:04:00.000-08:00

Today I received two T's from dftba.com.

I am now a true, full-fledged, nerdfighter!

Now on to reducing world suck . . .

Bake Week

2011-01-23T12:09:00.000-08:00

I made things, and I forgot to tell you about them!

First, I made cookies!

Imagine that.

Second, I made scones.

They are lemon and crystalized ginger.

Finally, I made a chocolate chip cheesecake.

But I didn't have anymore chocolate chips so I had to cut up bars.

(I think it looks prettier that way.)

I made it back to school today.

I'll have to tell you about my adventures yesterday

when I get the picture proof.

An Experiment in Baguettes

2011-01-12T15:58:00.001-08:00

This is the first meeting between myself and Artisan bread.

I used a King Arthur Flour recipe.

I loved it!

The recipe not only had detailed instructions but a step-by-step video.

Also, the bread rocked!

We had it tonight for supper to compliment Mr. David Hipschman's Caesar Salad.

YUM!

19 Things to do Before I'm 20

2011-01-10T18:55:00.000-08:00

I got the inspiration from Elsie.

I have been sketching out this page for a while,

but I made the final design this morning

and started hammering it out this afternoon.

I'm proud of how it turned out.

I'm excited to do all 19 things,

and to see what I come up with next year!

Good Ol' Chocolate Chip Cookies

2011-01-08T21:49:00.000-08:00

No matter what day (or what time for that matter) making a batch of chocolate chip cookies can make me feel better. By now I should have the recipe memorized, but it’s too easy to get lazy and just read it off the back of the package, also it's really easy to half make up after the ingredients are gathered.

There are a number of things I love about these cookies:

They don’t require extraneous ingredients, so you can make them almost all the time! (Just double check the status of the chocolate chips, they tend to run out fast.)
If I feel adventurous I can add nuts, or change up the type of chips, i.e. peanut butter or white chocolate rather than semi-sweet.
They are no brainers, (though I have been known to mess up a few batches in my time) so I can multitask. I can whip up a batch and gossip, or dance a little. They are perfect for when friends come over-expected or no.

There are two important stages to keep in mind when making this treat. There is the dough, then the finished cookie. Taste testing needs to occur on both stages. Take spoonfuls and munch while the cookies bake, and cool. Once the cookies sit for a few minutes try one. Make sure it’s not over baked though. They need to be a bit undercooked on the inside, still warm, with just a little crisp around the edges. The perfect cookie would fold in half if it was held straight up for too long, but can hold it’s shape for the several seconds (or less) it takes to get a cookie into a mouth.

So bake some cookies. For no real reason. It's a good idea, really.

Rum Cake

2011-01-05T15:05:00.000-08:00

Today I tried my hand at a rum cake.

From Booze Cakes.

Judging from the small morsel that was still clutching to the pan,

this is one good cake.

A "do again" if you will.

But only with strict parental guidance for the next few years.

The whole process was pretty simple,

until the glaze

DUN!

It wasn't really that bad.

Just a little messy.

But not to worry mom-the kitchen is al-

Oh, spoke too soon.

Dad's making supper.

I'll rephrase that:

The kitchen will be all clean in just a few minutes.

I promise!

Enjoy the rest of your day!

(Especially if it's snowing where you are too!)

Cake and a New Years Page

2011-01-04T12:45:00.000-08:00

Sour cream and lemon cake.

From this book.

I haven't had a piece yet,

but judging from the smell,

this is going to be a delectable treat!

Another treat for you is my new years resolution page.

Resolutions being as follows:

1. Eliminate awkward.

2. Listen to more classical music.

3. Dream bigger.

Have a wonderful Tuesday!

(And have your own piece of cake!)

Playing with Scraps

2011-01-04T12:36:00.001-08:00

I have been playing with scraps of paper and making a lot of cards.

Here's a sample:

I really love the owl stamp!

This last one is my favorite.

I'll be back later with a sour cream and lemon cake

that's set to come out of the oven in 5 minutes.

Hello.

2011-01-02T09:14:00.000-08:00

It's been a while.

But the time away was productively spent.

really . . .

I went to Florida!

That was productive.

Also to start 2011 off right I scrapbooked as soon as I got home.

(More on that later)

This morning we broke in mom's new waffle maker.

They were super good!

So . . . back to Florida.

The first night we were their Claire and I stayed with friends.

Then mom and dad moved us to the bed & breakfast they were staying at.

This was my first night at a b&b and I completely loved it!

Claire and I found a deck of cards on the first night and became pretty competitive at speed.

We made a day trip to St. Augustine

so Claire could meet with a friend she knew through exchange.

Katie, my parents, and I wondered around the historic district.

We found a fort and didn't go in.

We walked to the fountain of youth, but didn't go in.

And we walked up and down the touristy shops and didn't buy a thing.

We did have a good time though.

People watching and taking funny pictures next to monuments.

Later we found a beach.

It was a little chilly for swimming,

but we walked barefoot on the sand

It was a little chilly for that too,

but we're from Wisconsin and we managed.

(And by managed I mean

when we were done with the beach we ran back to Victor

the van

and stuck our feet back in our socks.)

The great adventure of the trip was the Kennedy Space Center.

I learned a lot and got to see were the shuttles take off and whatnot.

It was really interesting

and I would recommend it to anyone traveling to Florida in the near future.

And I almost forgot!

We saw Chihuly!

But we couldn't take pictures inside.

Take my word for it though,

it's was breathtaking.

Back on the home front.

I made cards.

A lot of cards.

Here are a few!

Then I made some pages.

I finally finished scrapbooking Colorado!

Happy New Year.

Have a great January!

Makin' Cookies

2010-12-23T11:35:00.000-08:00

Today I made cookies.

The traditional Christmas cut-outs.

In all sorts of fun shapes and sizes!

Before the cookies I made myself some scones for breakfast,

and Katie decided chocolate chip cookies were needed as well.

So far it's been a good baking day.

I'm thinking I'll get down to scrap some things later.

Also, if you haven't seen Alex read Twilight, you should.

Whether you like the book or not

(but especially if you don't)

he has an interesting (and honest) take on the first of the saga.

Operation: Squeaky Potato

2010-12-22T20:26:00.000-08:00

There is not much I can share about this mission,

but we made a mess.

A really really BIG mess!

We also jammed out a little.

That's right, dancin' it out while scrapbooking-

that's how I roll!

Some random thoughts to end the evening.

I (with the help of Adam) have been thinking about sports.

Specifically the future of the Sabres.

Also, I love Grier!

Stand Tall

2010-12-22T10:57:00.001-08:00

I'm already in love with my new camera!

Can you tell?

In other news,

I'm very behind in scrapbooking.

I have stacks of pictures and

pages of sketches

that just need the time

and inspiration to make them come together.

Slowly I'm chipping away at them.

Slowly.

It's also really fun to be this far behind.

To look back and remember what I've done in the past year.

Makes me really think about what's around the corner for next year!

*Note to self!*

Get through December first.

So here's one page for today.

"Standing Tall"

When I was hiking in Colorado.

Other things that make me especially smily this week:

Christmas cookies are ready to be rolled when I get to them,

John Green was on Jeopardy,

I made a trip to Archives today,

and Chapbooks are on the horizon.

college kids on beer, and ex-girlfriends,

the Sabres won last night,

I had coffee with a kid I haven't seen in forever,

(a welcome surprise)

I'm HOME!

(in case you haven't noticed)

Oh yeah, and I'm going ice skating later today!

New Camera, Cake, and Pages

2010-12-21T18:46:00.000-08:00

It was my mom's 29th birthday today,

again.

I made a chocolate cake!

Grandma's recipe:

(not really a secret though)

1 cup milk

2 cups flour

2 cups sugar

3/4 cup cocoa

1/2 cup vegetable oil

2 teaspoons baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

2 eggs

1 cup hot coffee

Heat oven to 350.

Put all ingredients into large bowl and use electric mixer to blend.

Pout into 9x12 cake pan and bake for 35-40 minutes.

It's good stuff.

Rich, and very moist!

And now . . .

for your consideration . . .

pages courtesy of my new Christmas camera!

Care Package

2010-12-08T15:46:00.001-08:00

Next week is finals week.

The above picture is the care package from my mother.

THANKS!

So instead of stressing,

I finished my homework and decided to sit down with a cup of mint tea

and write you a blog about how beautiful this season is.

It's been snowing,

and more snow is in the forecast,

that makes me really happy.

I have nine days and then I'm home for breakfast making and stew simmering.

Also!

On a completely unrelated note:

Operation Smile so Wide it Hurts

is in final stages.

This epic long distance adventure started with this cupcake.

It ended

(or will later tonight)

with a

(hopefully)

huge smile on a special someone's face.

I mention this because the surprise has kept a smile on my face all week,

and the people of SinnersSaintsSweets deserve a shout out for how awesome they are!

Have a great hump day!

Welcoming December with Open Arms

2010-12-01T15:59:00.000-08:00

We made snowflakes.

Drank hot dranks.

Made a Christmas Pandora channel.

Forgot about the stress of college.

Said hello to December the best way we know how.

Hope your first day was as good as the girls at Putnam.

Thanksgiving Weekend

2010-11-28T11:35:00.000-08:00

This weekend started with a quick trip down to Chicago.

I went with the high school to go see Billy Elliot.

[Google Images]

I saw the show on Broadway in 2009,

but I like Chicago,

and I liked Billy Elliot,

so I went again.

We hit up a lot of the same spot we did the last time I went down with the school

so I didn't take a lot of pictures.

But this was in the Art Institute, on the stairs at the main entrance.

Can't really tell from the picture, but all the colored blobs are words.

After the excitement of Chicago I had a great feast with my family.

Then I got down to the business of SCRAPBOOKING!

Here are a few pages for your consideration.

Some go Waaaaaaaaaaaaay back,

but still fun to remember.

On to December!

Intrigued With Purple

2010-11-08T10:13:00.000-08:00

[Snippet and Ink]

I said before that I sat down and worked out some cards this weekend,

while now I can't get it out of my head.

I just want to make, make, make!

All of my supplies are at home though,

so to make up for it I'm examining

color combination ideas,

layouts,

and stamps.

[Snippet and Ink]

The color that right now I'm pondering is purple.

I always associate this color with my younger years, when it was my favorite.

I'm figuring out that it's a color to be reckoned with.

It's more complicated than I originally figured.

There are so many different shades,

different feelings.

However, no matter what the shade it pops out.

Purple will not be put in a corner,

will not follow simple directions.

It follows its own drum, and I guess that could be frustrating.

I think that's why I've never really used it.

[Snippet and Ink]

But today I challenged myself.

I told myself to sit down and talk it out with this special color and make it work.

[Snippet and Ink]

It's fun!

I Still Got It!

2010-11-07T20:56:00.001-08:00

I went home this weekend to see my sister in The Pajama Game.

(Great job by the way! It was awesome and made me smile big smiles.)

While at home I found some time to make a few cards.

This is the first one.

Whipped it up in about five minutes,

without a real plan to start with.

So . . .

I think it's safe to say:

I STILL GOT IT!

I can make cards!

Fun Times on the Home Front

2010-10-18T19:27:00.000-07:00

I went home this weekend to spend some time with some of my favorite people.

The girls

(Katie, Claire, and I)

had a Chick Flick Movie night Friday night.

It was a little off cause the lava cake wasn't really lava-y,

and I was missing Allie and McCaulley.

(Some of the original chicks in CFMN)

The next day was a little off as well.

I drove to Point, made scones,

(that didn't hold together)

and cupcakes

(with lumpy frosting)

On the brighter side!

I learned how to throw, catch, pitch, and hit a softball.

Surprisingly enough

(not really if you know me)

I made it to the age of 19 and had never hit a ball without the use of a tee.

A big thanks to Adam for helping me out with that,

no matter how much he laughed at me in the process.

Saturday evening was spent with Katie.

On a date.

We went to the Stevens Point Concert Choir's Pop Concert.

It was AWESOME!

This is Adam after his Sammy Davis Jr. medley.

And the men in their grass skirts singing The Lion Sleeps Tonight.

After the concert Katie and I got some Cold Stone shakes,

and after doing two different ice cream dances,

we sipped up our chocolate goodness in Adam's breakfast nook.

Thank you to Katie for all of the pictures!

Thanks to those who made me laugh so much it hurt.

It was great fun.

Let's do it again sometime.

Chalking it Up as Another Good Weekend!

2010-10-10T20:50:00.000-07:00

I headed to Hudson this weekend for some family fun!

I went to a Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) meeting.

We made Christmas 48 trees for soldiers.

It was a pot luck and I got to make cheesecake!

After the meeting I got some time to hang out with resident young-one; Jax!

We drew with chalk . . .

made and frosted cupcakes,

(that I, sadly didn't get a picture of.) =(

played Monopoly,

and watched Toy Story 2.

Another fun filled wonderful weekend!

Apple Fun Time

2010-10-05T18:19:00.000-07:00

I went home for the first time this past weekend.

It was super busy.

First, there was John Green.

[All Stolen off Facebook]

I almost didn't make it,

but I did miss out on the dinner.

However,

here are some pictures,

of John Green, in my library!

This is John Rick Rolling his audience (myself included) on Saturday.

And this is my (Awesome) sister getting our books signed.

(I was with my mom checking out another author.

After my excited time with John Green

(did I mention I shook his hand?!?!?!)

I got to hang out with my friends.

I took Katie out for lunch for her birthday

and then spent a super long time with Adam.

I made apple pie,

and watched Iron Man (one and two)

(really good movies!).

I played Taboo,

made tacos,

and didn't take ANY pictures.

Then I headed back to Putnam.

Now it's Tuesday,

and I made apple crisp.

Then I made Sponge Bob mac and cheese!

Have a great week!