tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31710076955229939332024-03-05T21:31:21.703-08:00Sew Chaos, Sew Crazy, Sew WonderfulKristinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08187220747818298665noreply@blogger.comBlogger191125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171007695522993933.post-82597684395444744532014-01-07T09:09:00.001-08:002014-01-07T09:09:27.087-08:00FinishesI actually got to do some sewing this weekend. Actually, I am making a point to spend 15 sewing. Sewing makes me happy, and seems to be an escape from reality for me. Here's what I've been up to:<br />
<br />
I joined Cotton Robin. I participated in the first round of this swap a couple years ago and loved it. I finished my center block, just need to pack it up and send it to the organizer. No picture, because it's supposed to be a surprise. <br />
<br />
Finished an Orca Bay:<br />
<br />
Orca Bay was the <a href="http://quiltville.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Quiltville</a> Mystery 2 years ago. I made all the blocks, split them in half and finished a lap sized one. I've got the blocks to make a second, which is good, because this one was a gift for a friend. I ADORE scrap quilts, and the itty-bitty pieces. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Og0qN0cZALzSOuVy-ze23-XXxrOi9eV5hQfuXigJWCFPCPSF_h9kaCx9XoCPl94p3ZzQxh_4s7n8GlrGoNRqyMtPztN6YAEzIRg0W8I9zaP0lGPoh45z2Xw10BMrd94R9aROJcXhny0/s1600/IMG_5427.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Og0qN0cZALzSOuVy-ze23-XXxrOi9eV5hQfuXigJWCFPCPSF_h9kaCx9XoCPl94p3ZzQxh_4s7n8GlrGoNRqyMtPztN6YAEzIRg0W8I9zaP0lGPoh45z2Xw10BMrd94R9aROJcXhny0/s1600/IMG_5427.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvURbKKTifIVfGeiBEuCA4pjJNtZAs1loWoQJKn4sO9quK_FbOi8OsL0076KmRB7I5CjaH-CKCn59kqsEyl1KqxTdQ6DOi3YT14z9lFh0iDJweMCqB8vFoN-K9qWawMKbE3UqPEOKlUqo/s1600/IMG_5432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvURbKKTifIVfGeiBEuCA4pjJNtZAs1loWoQJKn4sO9quK_FbOi8OsL0076KmRB7I5CjaH-CKCn59kqsEyl1KqxTdQ6DOi3YT14z9lFh0iDJweMCqB8vFoN-K9qWawMKbE3UqPEOKlUqo/s1600/IMG_5432.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I also made 3 blocks for the Block Lotto. I've been following even though I haven't been participating for a couple years. My favorite colors and shapes. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGnV4pTa0gxTLIw-50kTfc092Et5ZWt_rluqspnn3xo6rURuR8gD-rlDWPTvfw8w_v-gvXvGPlRIHUj-_usSHYQxOpBHybtbwm77jFVY8QdMVac5bBJ6iTB69Zef7fnJiiH0cSWwL_LfE/s1600/20140104_223116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGnV4pTa0gxTLIw-50kTfc092Et5ZWt_rluqspnn3xo6rURuR8gD-rlDWPTvfw8w_v-gvXvGPlRIHUj-_usSHYQxOpBHybtbwm77jFVY8QdMVac5bBJ6iTB69Zef7fnJiiH0cSWwL_LfE/s1600/20140104_223116.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171007695522993933.post-1077254250508385312013-11-19T01:48:00.001-08:002013-11-19T01:48:28.291-08:00Distilling the Chaos<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name" style="color: #6d6d6d; font-family: 'Reenie Beanie'; font-size: 24px; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px; position: relative;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">After much thought, I've decided to limit Sew Chaos to sewing and cooking. All of my "writing" will be moved and posted to the sister site, <a href="http://distilledchaos.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Distilled Chaos</a>.</span></h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name" style="color: #6d6d6d; font-family: 'Reenie Beanie'; font-size: 24px; font-weight: normal; margin: 0px; position: relative;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">More than a few people have commented (in person) that they enjoyed reading it, and also more than a few commented that the "sew" part of the title no longer described the content of the blog.</span></h3>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">So, if you like the writing, click the link, that's where it will be from now on. If you prefer the crafty stuff, it will still get posted here, on the rare opportunities I have to sew and craft.</span></div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-6158949770905653582" itemprop="description articleBody" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; width: 580px;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br />In the next few weeks I'll be moving the relevant posts from the old blog to the new one.</span></div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-6158949770905653582" itemprop="description articleBody" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; width: 580px;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="post-body entry-content" id="post-body-6158949770905653582" itemprop="description articleBody" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px; width: 580px;">
<span style="background-color: white;">See you there!</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171007695522993933.post-41402766145771664972013-11-18T15:32:00.002-08:002013-11-19T13:39:58.901-08:00Blankets, Fries and a Rainbow<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 18px;">***Post Moved To<a href="http://distilledchaos.blogspot.com/2013/11/blankets-fries-and-rainbow.html"> Distilled Chaos</a>***</span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171007695522993933.post-39359225492004647522013-11-04T01:46:00.001-08:002013-11-19T13:39:19.590-08:00Getting Lost***Post Moved To <a href="http://distilledchaos.blogspot.com/2013/11/getting-lost.html">Distilled Chaos</a>***Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171007695522993933.post-74509434683871546492013-10-29T13:00:00.002-07:002013-11-19T13:38:36.127-08:00Christmas<div class="MsoNormal">
***Post Moved To <a href="http://distilledchaos.blogspot.com/2013/11/christmas.html">Distilled Chaos</a>***</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171007695522993933.post-12175969272885071092013-10-22T08:19:00.000-07:002013-10-22T08:19:59.605-07:00Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Pudding (Gluten Free and Low Fructose)It's been f.o.r.e.v.e.r since I posted a recipe.<br />
<br />
We went to the pumpkin patch this weekend. My favorite part of going? The apples. <br />
<br />
I know, apples? at a pumpkin patch?<br />
<br />
Yup. We went to <a href="http://www.deteringorchards.com/" target="_blank">Detering's Orchard</a>. It is becoming my favorite place to get pumpkins. Josh and I took the kids out. They have hayrides and an apple toss, but those cost money, so we didn't partake.<br />
<br />
We did pet cows, wander around, search for the perfect pumpkins, play in a hay maze and a corn maze. <br />
<br />
We also got a box of apples. Yum. <br />
<br />
I wanted baked apples, which means I needed to make something for Tessa. It needed to fit two needs:<br />
<br />
1. Easy to make (didn't want to have to figure out a bunch of substitutions)<br />
2. "Healthy" enough to eat for breakfast.<br />
<br />
What did I make? Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Pudding. I found the recipe online, but didn't write down where.<br />
<br />
Tessa approved - she devoured a bowl this morning for breakfast.<br />
<br />
Slow Cooker Pumpkin Pie Pudding<br />
<br />
Ingredients:<br />
1 can of pumpkin puree (15 oz)<br />
1 can evaporated milk (12 oz)<br />
3/4 cup evaporated cane juice<br />
1/4 cup powdered dextrose<br />
1/2 cup <a href="http://sewchaos.blogspot.com/2012/10/tess-quik-aka-gluten-free-fructose-free.html" target="_blank">Tess-Quik</a> (GF baking mix)<br />
2 eggs<br />
2 TBSP butter, melted<br />
1 1/4 tsp cinnamon<br />
1/2 tsp nutmeg<br />
pinch cloves<br />
pinch ground ginger<br />
2 tsp vanilla extract (make sure it's GF and has NO corn syrup)<br />
<br />
Coat the inside the slow-cooker with GF cooking spray. Set aside.<br />
<br />
In a mixing bowl, combine all of the ingredients. Whisk until fully blended.<br />
<br />
Pour batter into the prepared slow cooker. Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours, or on low for 6 hours. Check the pudding after 2 hours (high) or 3 hours (low), then check every 30 minutes.<br />
<br />
The pudding is done when it looks like a pumpkin pie - pulling away from the edges and set in the center. It may crack, that's perfectly fine.<br />
<br />
Remove the slow-cooker from the base and let it sit until cooled to room temperature. Serve with sweetened whipped cream. (I sweeten the whipped cream with equal parts powdered sugar and powdered dextrose)<br />
<br />
She loved it.<br />
and oh so super easy.<br />
<br />
One bowl, no mixer. perfect. If you don't need it to be low-fructose, simply eliminate the powdered dextrose, and replace the evaporated cane juice with white sugar.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171007695522993933.post-20070965253937329772013-10-21T21:40:00.001-07:002013-11-19T13:37:49.715-08:00Age***Post Moved To <a href="http://distilledchaos.blogspot.com/2013/11/age.html">Distilled Chaos</a>***Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171007695522993933.post-8132695162717414552013-10-03T22:47:00.001-07:002013-11-19T13:37:07.309-08:00Titles, Family and... Guitars?<div class="MsoNormal">
***Post Moved to <a href="http://distilledchaos.blogspot.com/2013/11/titles-family-and-guitars.html">DISTILLED CHAOS</a>***</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171007695522993933.post-44808634442732968242013-09-29T23:45:00.003-07:002013-11-19T13:36:16.968-08:00A Little Bird<div class="MsoNormal">
***POST MOVED TO <a href="http://distilledchaos.blogspot.com/2013/11/a-little-bird.html" target="_blank">DISTILLED CHAOS</a>***</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171007695522993933.post-60135395117713904882013-09-17T22:30:00.002-07:002013-11-19T13:35:24.543-08:00Forgive Me<div class="MsoNormal">
***Post Moved to <a href="http://distilledchaos.blogspot.com/2013/11/forgive-me.html" target="_blank">Distilled Chaos</a>***</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171007695522993933.post-45146813197054491752013-09-09T21:28:00.000-07:002013-11-19T13:34:30.652-08:00Changes. and Gratitude.<div class="MsoNormal">
I haven’t blogged in ages.
Mostly because I haven’t done any real sewing or quilting in ages. And if I did, I didn't have the time or
energy to take pictures and write about it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So the focus and format of my blog is changing. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Change is good, right?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’d still like to share my creative-ness when
I have time, but I will be writing more and show-and-telling
less. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The past 12 months have turned my world upside-down, inside-out and sideways. I got thrown one curve after another. Barely recovering before the next one flew at me. All life altering events. every. single. one. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And I got them all in 12 months. Lucky me.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But you know what? I survived.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t want to write a big long post about all
the crap that’s happened in the last year.
Pieces will come up when I’m thinking about them, but I'm not up for a long story of my
woes.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As I work through the different changes,
struggles and successes I will write about them.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have half a dozen blog topics pop into my head throughout
the course of a day. The usual conversation in my head goes something like this: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“wow, that's a great topic, I have an opinion on that I should write
it.” or "Huh. I figured that out. Someone else may benefit from my experience" </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
then</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“who’d
read it?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Today there was a third
response</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“does it matter if anyone reads it?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
That one kinda stopped me in my tracks.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
No, it really doesn't matter if anyone reads it. Not if I want to write it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, welcome to the new Sew Chaos, Sew Crazy, Sew
Wonderful. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Less crafty-crap and more
thinking and words. I’m not saying there
won’t be crafty, cooking, baking stuff – I still do that, but it’s certainly not
my focus right now.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Without further adieu, I present</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
***Post Moved to <a href="http://distilledchaos.blogspot.com/2013/11/gratitude.html" target="_blank">Distilled Chaos</a>***</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171007695522993933.post-91467430142695886982012-10-22T18:25:00.000-07:002012-10-22T18:25:00.963-07:00Tess-Quik aka Gluten Free, Fructose Free Baking MixI love this stuff. Period. I found the recipe at <a href="http://gingerlemongirl.com/">Gingerlemongirl.com</a>. I originally found her new updated super healthy version, but was quickly put off by all the "not normal" ingredients. The link below will take you to the version of the mix I make. Below are the changes I've made to it, to make it fructose free, and Tess-approved.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://gingerlemongirl.blogspot.com/2008/02/successful-gluten-free-master-baking.html">Gluten Free All Purpose/Master Baking Mix</a><br />
<br />
Ingredients that I've subbed out and their replacements:<br />
<br />
<strike>brown rice flour</strike> white rice flour<br />
<strike>oat flour - or - millet flour</strike> sorghum flour<br />
<strike>tapioca flour</strike> - equal parts corn starch and arrowroot starch<br />
<br />
This is now a staple in our pantry, which we have affectionately named "Tess-Quik"<br />
<br />
Ginger Lemon Girl has a bunch of recipes posted on her blog that you can use this mix for. I bought her e-book Gluten Free Baking *101* and it has been invaluable. It also has a bunch of recipes using the mix. It's the only cookbook I've paid for since we switched to the gluten free, low fructose diet. It has a nice bit of information about the different flours and starches along with recipes.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171007695522993933.post-74806563930466778002012-10-15T17:58:00.000-07:002012-10-15T18:00:16.046-07:00Ready, Set, Bake!<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
In an effort to make my days easier, I've been packaging up baking
mixes in mason jars. It is super easy to grab a jar of mix to take when Tess spends
the night at grandma’s or to make for potlucks. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I stumbled across a master muffin mix online at
<a href="http://themakeyourownzone.com/">themakeyourownzone.com</a>. I've changed it
to be gluten-free and low fructose.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This mix is amazing.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It doesn't taste gritty or slimy like some gluten-free foods. People don’t even realize it’s gluten free
and low fructose unless I tell them.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As always, my goal with my recipes is to create/adapt quick and
easy gluten-free and low-fructose recipes that are taste approved by my 6-year-old and that have lower cost, easier
to find ingredients.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Gluten
Free Low Fructose Muffin Mix<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ingredients <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->2 2/3 cups sorghum flour<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->2 2/3 cups white rice flour<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->1 1/3 cups arrowroot starch<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->1 1/3 cups corn starch<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->4 tsp xanthan gum<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->2 cups evaporated cane juice<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->1 1/3 cups powdered dextrose<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->3 TBSP baking powder<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->2 tsp salt<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->1 TBSP ground cinnamon<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->1 TBSP ground nutmeg<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Combine all ingredients in an extra large bowl, whisking and stirring
until thoroughly combined.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Keep it all in an airtight container or divide it into single
batch jars. A single batch (2 ¾ cups)
should just fit into a pint size mason jar.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
The recipe makes just over 5 batches of muffins. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>2 ¾ cups
mix should make 12-18 muffins.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Substitutions –<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->The evaporated cane juice and dextrose can be
swapped out for whatever dry sweetener you prefer, as long as it is the equivalent
of 3 cups of granulated sugar.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Millet flour can be used instead of the
sorghum flour.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Arrowroot starch, Tapioca starch/flour or
potato starch can be used instead of corn starch.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>To make muffins:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ingredients<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->1 Jar muffin mix (2 ¾ cups)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->1 egg<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->1 cup milk<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->½ cup butter (melted)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->1 cup “add-In”
(see below)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Preheat oven to 400F. Put
paper liners in a muffin tin, or grease REALLY well.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mix egg, milk & butter in a small bowl until well combined.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dump dry mix into a mixing bowl.
Make a well in the center. Add
wet ingredients. Stir until just
moistened. Stir in add in.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Bake at 400F for about 20 minutes.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Add In ideas: Berries, Mashed
banana, Pumpkin puree, Chocolate chips, etc…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So far I've made blueberry, chocolate chip, and bittersweet almond
muffins. If you try it and I’d love to
hear about it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171007695522993933.post-61776230264813970542012-09-14T13:52:00.002-07:002012-09-14T13:52:44.779-07:00deal.depression sucks.<br />
not the my-cat-just-died depressed.<br />
the mind-numbing, bone-aching, unending-grey-swirling-mess depression.<br />
<br />
it sucks.<br />
<br />
deal.<br />
<br />
admit it. look yourself in the mirror.<br />
say, yes, I am depressed. I am having a hard time functioning on a day to day basis. I will make an appointment to see a health care professional. i will go to said appointment.<br />
<br />
giving in and sleeping all day is easier.<br />
easier for whom?<br />
<br />
you? sure, probably.<br />
your family?<br />
nope. not a chance.<br />
<br />
deal. get up. function.<br />
<br />
you don't have to like it, it will probably hurt and totally suck. <br />
you'll get frustrated that you can barely manage to switch the loads of laundry before you're exhausted.<br />
<br />
it doesn't matter.<br />
get up. do it.<br />
grit your teeth and deal with it.<br />
<br />
switch the laundry.<br />
someone is counting on you. someone needs you to switch the loads.<br />
<br />
what you do is more important than how you feel.<br />
<br />
great. now there are clothes in the dryer so everyone will have clean clothes in the morning.<br />
<br />
what's next?<br />
<br />
food. yup. kids will want to eat. spouses want to eat. pets, they want to eat too.<br />
believe it or not, you need to eat, even if the thought of food makes you sick to your stomach.<br />
<br />
deal with it. eat. something.<br />
<br />
Ramen. mac and cheese. easy dinner. feed your family.<br />
<br />
now they are fed and clothed. the basics. sit at the table and listen.<br />
don't put your head down.<br />
<br />
sit.<br />
up.<br />
<br />
listen to your family, talk with them, love them.<br />
<br />
even if you aren't worth the effort, don't be selfish.<br />
they are. live for them. deal with it for them.<br />
don't lay on the couch and whine.<br />
<br />
just deal with it.<br />
<br />
overwhelmed yet?<br />
<br />
deal.<br />
<br />
deal with it everyday until you realize you are no longer dealing, but living. figure it out.<br />
<br />
but don't, <i>don't</i>, tell me you can't do something, or you're too tired.<br />
it's a cop out. <br />
<br />
been there. done that.<br />
<br />
I dealt. I functioned. it sucked.<br />
<br />
and now it doesn't.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171007695522993933.post-42381400291713204402012-09-09T10:06:00.001-07:002012-09-09T10:06:21.559-07:00Easy-Peasy Homemade Greek Yogurt<span style="font-family: inherit;">Tess loves flavored yogurt, but all the sugar-free ones in the store taste like aspartame. Blech. So I looked online for a method of making yogurt that didn't require a yogurt maker...or a bunch of effort... and I found one.</span><div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It sounded way too easy to actually work, so I kept looking. and I found another recipe almost identical to the first. hmm. could I really make greek yogurt in my crockpot???</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I can. and it is delicious. I shall strive to remember to take pictures of the steps next time I make a batch. until then, here's the basic recipe.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvdcMkepB4Ji9XTXEb8fCl7f04v-DyITGQrxzWgRNiqKf8TTGNd3afn2RI615sUpO22PjDw9mfYdOjYZEiBI12TFOniRXX5eagFxK-n8JlRbtTqfmcNJ8ErcdV4LlGjq5Uhn-qwbknaGQ/s1600/greek+yogurt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvdcMkepB4Ji9XTXEb8fCl7f04v-DyITGQrxzWgRNiqKf8TTGNd3afn2RI615sUpO22PjDw9mfYdOjYZEiBI12TFOniRXX5eagFxK-n8JlRbtTqfmcNJ8ErcdV4LlGjq5Uhn-qwbknaGQ/s320/greek+yogurt.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Homemade Greek Yogurt</span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b style="font-size: 14pt;">makes: </b>about 32 oz</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">ingredients </span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->½ gallon (8 cups) milk<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->½ cup (6 oz) plain yogurt (with live cultures)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>directions</b> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;">1.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Pour
milk into slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 2 -2½ hours, or until temperature is 180 ºF.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;">2.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span>Turn
off slow cooker and unplug it. Let milk
cool in slow cooker on counter for 3 hours, or until temperature is between 105
ºF and 110 ºF.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;">3.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span>Pour
1 (ish) cup of warmed milk into a small bowl.
Add yogurt. Whisk to
combine. Pour milk and yogurt mixture
back into slow cooker. Whisk to combine.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;">4.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Put
lid back on slow cooker. Wrap entire
bowl and lid with a towel and place in oven with light on. Let sit in oven for 7-8 hours.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;">5.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Remove
from oven. Place in refrigerator for 3
hours, or until yogurt is cooled.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">at this point you have "normal" yogurt. to make it </span>Greek<span style="font-family: inherit;">:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;">6.<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span>Line
a strainer with multiple layers of damp cheesecloth or a layer of damp cotton (muslin).
Place strainer over a bowl. Pour
yogurt into strainer. Return to
refrigerator for 1 hour. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;">7.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Pour
off liquid in bowl and return to refrigerator to strain for 1 more hour.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: inherit;">8.<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Sweeten
yogurt to taste if desired and store in refrigerator in sealed containers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<b>notes:</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">~I usually scoop out 1/2 cup of unsweetened yogurt and save it in the fridge as the "starter" for the next batch.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .25in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">~unsweetened it can be used as a sour cream </span>substitute<span style="font-family: inherit;">. (I used it in a bean dip this weekend and no one could tell it was yogurt)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">~I've used both whole milk and 1%. I liked the 1% better, it tastes less fatty.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">~The liquid that is strained off is whey. It can be used in cooking or fed to tomato
plants. Personally, I soak a bunch of oatmeal in it overnight and feed it to my chickens in the morning. They love it.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>costs:</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
a 1/2 gallon of milk cost me $1.44, and the initial yogurt purchase was ~$1.00, so that first batch cost me $2.44 for about 32 oz of yogurt. Since then, I've been using my own starter, so now, it's about $1.44 for 32 oz, which is less than $0.30 a serving. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I've been making about a batch a week, and then turning most of it into Low-Fructose Fruit-at-the-Bottom yogurt cups.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Perhaps you'd like to see how I do that?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171007695522993933.post-10670260569684282032012-09-06T18:48:00.001-07:002012-09-06T18:48:27.698-07:00Well, there you go.<div><p>In case you hadn't noticed, I've not been sewing much around here.  When we figured out that Tessa's tummy couldn't process fructose, I did a bunch of research and am now re-learning how to cook and bake gluten-free (GF) and no/low fructose (LF).  So the few extra minutes I had been sewing, I am now trying to find food that taste good and Tess can eat.  </p>
<p>Since I really don't want to make two of everything - blackberry cobbler, cupcakes, cookies - I've been making our sweeet treats Tessa-safe. </p>
<p>Trying to find a balance between the effort expended in preparing meals that everyone can eat and the additional cost of making enough GF/LF foods for the entire family has been tricky.  GF flours are stupidly expensive.  So, we've limited our cakes and cookies at the house because I'm too lazy to make a batch GF/LF, wash everything and clean up, then make a second "normal" batch.</p>
<p>I'd rather spend my time elsewhere, thank you very much.  One of my least favorite chores is cleaning the kitchen, why on earth would I subject my self to doing that twice as often?</p>
<p>Tonight I whipped up a batch of brownies using a master baking mix recipe I modified.  Josh gave it the name "Tess-Quik" and it stuck.</p>
<p>No recipe tonight, we haven't tasted them yet.   But they sure smell promising!</p>
<p>I miss blogging, mostly because I felt like it was an outlet for the random thoughts and happenings I want to share.  So, perhaps I will be back more often, but there will be little to no craft-sewing going on here.</p>
<p>Instead, I'd like to use this as a platform to share with my friends and family, who I don't see/talk to much.  Mostly because I dislike "chatting" on the phone.  </p>
<p>I'm also using the Blogger app on my tablet, so be prepared for not-perfect posts.</p>
<br/><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTGsG1RA6_6KrPpxV-kgt2MnVDXhk8hqkzm3I5SgLcIVwTH8YQxf_kx09wJ34fCEU6dmI41Wdccq8Wb213M2u_AwrxgTsske8GgIfjfsxk8lRRNUicYssZTK1LCHP2MxbBcJzxljSBck4/' /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171007695522993933.post-49070010479541490552012-06-20T15:00:00.002-07:002012-06-20T15:00:58.222-07:00GF, FF Peanut Butter Cookies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Super Simple, Extraordinary Cookies. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Can't even tell they're gluten & sugar free.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmDh7YawS4qo3AbjbWbSxgfHKGmvNPHmGH2CJAnVhrh-8Pu2hjW9heVwP6gDTAKBFfWWxmOrC8KyoVhXDlZ4lChM6IPtggPzPGylg-Hf5EMkpCDsNWpKsbhPdmX4EcwanJ2bKY_9ZAer4/s1600/cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmDh7YawS4qo3AbjbWbSxgfHKGmvNPHmGH2CJAnVhrh-8Pu2hjW9heVwP6gDTAKBFfWWxmOrC8KyoVhXDlZ4lChM6IPtggPzPGylg-Hf5EMkpCDsNWpKsbhPdmX4EcwanJ2bKY_9ZAer4/s320/cookies.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<div class="recipe-card" id="card1" style="line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #333333;">Adapted from: </span><a href="http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/recipes/2054" target="_blank">Whole Foods Market Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies</a> </span><br />
<h4 style="color: #333333; line-height: 16px; margin: 0.75em 0px 0.25em; padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Makes about 18 cookies</span></h4>
<div class="headnote" style="color: #333333; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em; padding: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 16px;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Ingredients</span></b></span></div>
<div class="ingredients" style="color: #333333; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em; padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">1 large egg <br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />1 cup powdered dextrose <br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />1 teaspoon baking soda <br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />1 cup (9 1/2 oz) unsweetened peanut butter <br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />1/2 teaspoon gluten-free vanilla extract </span></div>
</div>
<div class="recipe-card" id="card2" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Method</span></b><br />
<div class="method" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em; padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Preheat oven to 350°F. </span></span><br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Beat together egg, sugar, baking soda and vanilla in a standing mixer. Beat well, until thoroughly mixed and slightly fluffy. Beat in the peanut butter. </span></span></span></div>
<div class="method" style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em; padding: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Drop dough by teaspoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet, pressing lightly with the back of a fork. </span></span></div>
<div class="method" style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em; padding: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Bake for 8-10 minutes, until browned. Don't be tempted to take them out early, they need to be set all the way through.</span></span></div>
<div class="method" style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em; padding: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Transfer to a paper-towel covered wire rack to finish cooling.</span></span></div>
<div class="method" style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em; padding: 0px;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Enjoy!</span></span></div>
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171007695522993933.post-55113485188167096462012-06-20T14:47:00.000-07:002012-06-20T14:47:10.449-07:00Fructose MalabsorptionDid you know that fructose is in everything?!?! Well, almost everything. We finally got up to see a specialist for my littlest's tummy problems. She suggested we try a fructose-free diet for a month and see if that helped.<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white;">It did. Within 4 days she was a completely different child. No tummy-aches, no constipation. For awhile I was completely overwhelmed by the lifestyle change I was confronted with. Now, we're slowing building up the food choices available. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">She can have corn tortillas, refried beans and cheese, so she's completely happy.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">I have complied a list of foods that are okay, as well as those that aren't. Basically you start with a gluten-free diet and eliminate most sweeteners, fruits and veggies.</span><br />
<br />
Long story short - my family has asked for a list of foods and recipes that Tessa can enjoy. Since I already have this blog, I figured this would be the best place to post such things.<br />
<br />
In my research I haven't been able to find many recipes. I will post mine, as I create them, to help others in search of kid-friendly fructose free foods.<br />
<br />
Needless to say, sewing has taken a backseat for the time being. Such is life.<br />
<br />
Tessa-safe foods are listed<a href="http://sewchaos.blogspot.com/p/fructose-free-low-fructose-diet.html"> here</a>.<br />
<br />
When I create them, recipes will be<a href="http://sewchaos.blogspot.com/p/low-fructose-fructose-free-recipes.html"> here</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171007695522993933.post-53491121251008797712012-04-10T20:29:00.000-07:002012-04-10T20:29:04.358-07:00Ow. My brain hurts.<div style="text-align: center;">
Whew. Right now I barely have time to breathe, let alone blog. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My list of priorities goes like this:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mom-ing</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Schooling</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Housework</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Laundry</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sewing</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Blogging.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sorry - bottom of the list, but that's how it is at the moment.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm carving out these few minutes while I listen to my kiddos argue about, well, who-knows-what. I can tell you they are not doing what they are supposed to be doing, which is getting their jammies on and hopping into bed for book-time.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Utterly frustrating.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Please don't get me wrong. I love my children. I adore them. I even like them.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Always have, always will. But by golly they can be so utterly frustrating.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And wow, have I had a month.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My littlest is 6. She's very smart and tested into 1st grade in November. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUQTZwdFukRBLFWmjIRvXbaKkhSOU8DrtRLZUO2U38iPWmTtjvBZouZhJWdxT8a0AnGhV44RGquv0xi8LvU0Ke4K1WF_toEyQaYRpeTdCgXRYM1up549-ISr2s6yXqIgdHPR1UdRD2Ll0/s1600/tess.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUQTZwdFukRBLFWmjIRvXbaKkhSOU8DrtRLZUO2U38iPWmTtjvBZouZhJWdxT8a0AnGhV44RGquv0xi8LvU0Ke4K1WF_toEyQaYRpeTdCgXRYM1up549-ISr2s6yXqIgdHPR1UdRD2Ll0/s320/tess.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>This picture was taken about a month ago. Goof-ball.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Very intelligent. She's also only 6 years old. So, I struggle with our expectations of her. Is it unrealistic to expect her to wash her own hair? How about putting her clothes away in the CORRECT drawer?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I try to think back to when the other two were six and its not really apples to apples, ya know? </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
She has been struggling with tummy pain.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We finally have an appointment to see a pediatric "tummy doctor" but not until May 1.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I know there are days when she hurts and doesn't tell me, and then there are the days when it hurts too much for her to go to school. Hopefully, will will get it all figured out soon.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My middle one, my BOY. and wow is he a boy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi01PwDrRaFwpWIvSc4a5ahlpVyZph4Wlu4ihbUPYw1u_HXiTSevI1x1YXCc-ZUx4_h-8CybGISjzC91TrskXGC5YYMXDOISCKwhXFhQuYia38TULsWrF9nOx55DYs0QU4X00eYBdIlBOQ/s1600/jack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi01PwDrRaFwpWIvSc4a5ahlpVyZph4Wlu4ihbUPYw1u_HXiTSevI1x1YXCc-ZUx4_h-8CybGISjzC91TrskXGC5YYMXDOISCKwhXFhQuYia38TULsWrF9nOx55DYs0QU4X00eYBdIlBOQ/s320/jack.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">taken at Christmas, my boy is on the right, his cousin on the left.</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He totally reminds me of pigpen in the Peanuts cartoons. He just steps outside and he's covered in dirt. He's growing out his hair, which adds to the shaggy messy look.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He also constantly is making noise - either sound effects or talking.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
c-o-n-s-t-a-n-t-l-y. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I try really hard to not let it drive me batty. But man, wow.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
an hour in the car with him feels like, well, an hour. in a car. with constant noises behind my seat.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Other than that he's pretty easy right now, but being the middle child and the only boy, we do try to make sure he feels special too. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My eldest.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuQrcOOIcKRq8A3ttv7r7QPaR4W9wmSiEMqYAFF7sjr541z9MOgY66lftY23hxil3Uw9mgBlDYPu3NvB_NQ7dq3XsqkkNcpfI7iMhocHH5eDi-ViLgUEVaLAVrqJLlE32mglgpmdlhYAA/s1600/hannah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuQrcOOIcKRq8A3ttv7r7QPaR4W9wmSiEMqYAFF7sjr541z9MOgY66lftY23hxil3Uw9mgBlDYPu3NvB_NQ7dq3XsqkkNcpfI7iMhocHH5eDi-ViLgUEVaLAVrqJLlE32mglgpmdlhYAA/s320/hannah.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>chopped off all her hair, in February.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Man oh man. She will be ten at the end of the month. And the attitude has begun. Snarky comments and back talking. Currently, we're simply calling her on the attitude, telling her flat out when she's being disrespectful and rude. We're working on ways to treat her like she's 10 and not younger, like her sibs. Tonight she made dinner - Mac & Cheese with Hot Dogs.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So totally normal family life, right?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Parenting seems to be taking more "time" lately. For some reason they're rather high-maintenance at the moment. But, I love being a mom.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I love being<i> their</i> mom. Bring it on.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I love it more than fabric.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Add to that - I'm back to school. I made it through my first term, yeah!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This new term is kicking my tail-feathers. I'm taking Math, Chemistry and Soil Science. Who's brilliant plan is was this? So much left-brain use and little time for creativity.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
- wait - </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
our home computer decided it was done. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Blue screen of death and everything.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Km6ppUj5jtNQDb_OGJAawznnu17mNc8OOhnoPf5CPDFLd4dsqw7OyCZr3oOAh0H5w-JQvktwq3wdQ8xt7SufRnEe7Y12EnOEvarHEW799F7NVrh-S6ldT57E6XeaLUCgtk82iGyPCgI/s1600/2012-04-05+16.42.54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0Km6ppUj5jtNQDb_OGJAawznnu17mNc8OOhnoPf5CPDFLd4dsqw7OyCZr3oOAh0H5w-JQvktwq3wdQ8xt7SufRnEe7Y12EnOEvarHEW799F7NVrh-S6ldT57E6XeaLUCgtk82iGyPCgI/s320/2012-04-05+16.42.54.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So, after weighing the pros and cons we got a slick new laptop. Which is great, except I spent the last 3 days getting all the software, programs and files on the new one. Getting new technology is not fun and exciting when it is unplannned.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
On the plus side - I did get the new photoshop elements. I'd been using 2.0 and now I've got 10. Whoo hoo, wow, totally awesome - if I could find time to play with it. I also got a new-to-me "real" camera, on loan from a photographer friend, for me to try out. Again, gotta find time to play with it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Another plus - </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6-8JTE_pa4GQFuxzD_JHlVXvJXMn5SKIRQceEUm2YGy6_IigiB2XEauwX3XoNEfp2hK4BByFa61CQLx-zPZ54BzB24nmj08hf16weHKSHGm8-RFo8Qtalb2uCrQC0_pD1irieMa-u3wY/s1600/chick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6-8JTE_pa4GQFuxzD_JHlVXvJXMn5SKIRQceEUm2YGy6_IigiB2XEauwX3XoNEfp2hK4BByFa61CQLx-zPZ54BzB24nmj08hf16weHKSHGm8-RFo8Qtalb2uCrQC0_pD1irieMa-u3wY/s320/chick.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I got my chickens! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Or at least the first of them. We ended up at the Farm Store on Free Chick Day.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Free! How could I not bring some home? </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm expecting more chicks to arrive in a couple of weeks. tee-hee!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
About a month ago I did manage to finish my Carolina Christmas.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I gave up finding the perfect binding and went with what I had.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOuWo0fNCFTj8NOvlHOQr3kt6eaWqBiMkPO-HzYUAfchhAI1kZQqMVDlNn1IfqrOlRvX5hrfQPTyxCvZhBh-1lfXRdtnfup1_EsJTas9BG7En4l8Dnrg5HiRUz18J4I6GDXqiHbJ76l0A/s1600/carolina+christmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOuWo0fNCFTj8NOvlHOQr3kt6eaWqBiMkPO-HzYUAfchhAI1kZQqMVDlNn1IfqrOlRvX5hrfQPTyxCvZhBh-1lfXRdtnfup1_EsJTas9BG7En4l8Dnrg5HiRUz18J4I6GDXqiHbJ76l0A/s320/carolina+christmas.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So, chicks on quilts!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ0CgBeufKgYvxAuI9nHYbF68OZw8H30i7EbhrTkRa3dZhhjN-7eJ-dT_1oaNuuNphiCaKP2SiBMbUqozx1u1QtN3CESMdwFLb46O68DMBDdrgJFCZXok-cU6f1S75amvrpqpTJqpMAYI/s1600/chick+on+quilt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ0CgBeufKgYvxAuI9nHYbF68OZw8H30i7EbhrTkRa3dZhhjN-7eJ-dT_1oaNuuNphiCaKP2SiBMbUqozx1u1QtN3CESMdwFLb46O68DMBDdrgJFCZXok-cU6f1S75amvrpqpTJqpMAYI/s320/chick+on+quilt.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Now I need to go figure out "Sine & Cosine and Their Functions"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
All really want it a nice tumbler of Irish Whiskey,* </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtwrRYJeWZWInbzzvbMdJOrY5xErXwhOnXCgemkl29_lFpfksXtRRkJQbl9iWAxYWRezAHudEe7RMymnMwbTR06_1qr_lXDREqI1iESnmiifcJaja-pvO4Om6f1A5XOGo-ijeRPgUeT8A/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtwrRYJeWZWInbzzvbMdJOrY5xErXwhOnXCgemkl29_lFpfksXtRRkJQbl9iWAxYWRezAHudEe7RMymnMwbTR06_1qr_lXDREqI1iESnmiifcJaja-pvO4Om6f1A5XOGo-ijeRPgUeT8A/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #228822; font-family: arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">whiskyla.com</span>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #228822; font-family: arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #228822; font-family: arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Some cheesy chips, and an evening of NCIS.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm0_lSzEGdlZTQKkN7fLhQNaE96pJ7h6R2LDHjxyfiiWcfO-zlhBf7ftfM30VsVS4RcjrlzZURxZYPqOsKoHPuQ2fzwSlD_c92uaMl05Qv3OlnOFigU-cfFYRW5bH6G0XmgbNPBxf6Ong/s1600/NCIS-cast605i.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm0_lSzEGdlZTQKkN7fLhQNaE96pJ7h6R2LDHjxyfiiWcfO-zlhBf7ftfM30VsVS4RcjrlzZURxZYPqOsKoHPuQ2fzwSlD_c92uaMl05Qv3OlnOFigU-cfFYRW5bH6G0XmgbNPBxf6Ong/s320/NCIS-cast605i.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #228822; font-family: arial; font-size: 13px; line-height: 15px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">tvbreakroom.com</span>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">*disclaimer - I rarely indulge, usually when I'm feeling like I need a nice treat.</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Kinda like chocolate - only not really the same at all.</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171007695522993933.post-40666429720429649172012-03-13T12:49:00.001-07:002012-03-13T13:33:16.495-07:00Family<div><p>I struggled for a while before writing this post. Do I share? Do I not?</p>
<p>I write this from my perspective. This week has affected many, what I share is what I feel, no one else.</p>
<p>My maternal grandmother passed away this week. It was not overly unexpected, she had alzheimer's, got pnuemonia and just couldn't recover. My sister and I took turns at her bedside, supporting our mom.  </p>
<p>I didn't really have a relatonship with my grandmother, we lived too far away to visit much,and when she moved closer, it was because of the alzheimers, and the woman my cousins knew was already disappearing.  </p>
<p>So, truly I feel very little loss. I don't regret not knowing her her either.</p>
<p>Supporting my mom and helping her was my main focus.  Yes, it was emotional comforting and watching my grandmother progress to the end.</p>
<p>It was incredibly hard for me, but not nearly as hard it was on my mom and her siblings who couldn't be here all week.  Slowly they trickled in, coming as soon as they could.  My mom's family has never been close, and family gatherings have been few and far between.  </p>
<p>Putting it mildly, it has been an emotionally exhausing week.  The service is planned for tomorrow and then they will all scatter across the country, back to their own lives and families.</p>
<p>This is not a sad post.</p>
<p>Last night, in the midst of wind storm that knocked out power at my house and dumped snow overnight, they came to my house.  I warned them all, my aunts and cousins, before they came out, I have no power! <br>
But still they came.  <br>
Luckily the power was restored before too long.</p>
<p>I reconnected with cousins that I never realized I had things in common with.  My kids and theirs played together almost instantly, even though they'd never met. Yes, there were tears and reactions that were fueled more by lack of sleep and stess than any rational thoughts. But there was also laughter, hugs and chocolate covered pretzels.</p>
<p>My mom and two of her sisters went home just after midnight.</p>
<p>These next two days will be just as exhausting. </p>
<p>But you know, if this wasn't happening at this particular time, I wouldn't have had the opportunity to know my extended family and lend my strength and support to a situation that I feel uniquely qualified to help with. More than likely, I wouldn't even know anything was happening, nor would they be aware of my experiences or would take my offers seriously.</p>
<p>My heart aches for those around me struggling to process the events of the last week, but personally I wonder at the timing of it all. <br>
So, please, don't feel sorry for my loss. </p>
<p>I have lost little but gained much.</p>
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171007695522993933.post-67470574518555814162012-03-06T07:16:00.001-08:002012-03-12T13:56:41.374-07:00Guest Posting Today!!<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm guest poster today over at <a href="http://www.sewwequilt.com/2012/03/its-runner-month-and-here-is-kristine.html" target="_blank">Sew We Quilt</a>!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/antiqueroses/6796000616/" title="IMG_4880 by Sew Chaos {Kristin}, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_4880" height="180" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7047/6796000616_192a85a8b7_m.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The second installment of the Choose Your Own Adventure Projects!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Go look! I'm so excited, my first guest post anywhere!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171007695522993933.post-59923254607667336392012-02-27T08:36:00.000-08:002012-02-27T08:36:46.882-08:00February SewingThe month is almost over! I'd actually been sewing a bit - mostly in 15 minute increments when I need a break from school-work. I actually set a timer, I have to - otherwise I'd get lost in fabric and lose time.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Would you like to see what I've been working on?<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/antiqueroses/6789290798/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" title="BL 2012-02 by Sew Chaos {Kristin}, on Flickr"><img alt="BL 2012-02" height="123" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7198/6789290798_90aa8a010d_m.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<a href="http://blocklotto.com/" target="_blank">Block Lotto</a> for <a href="http://www.blocklotto.com/2012/02/lets-play-hearts/" target="_blank">February</a></div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
Quilter's choice of Heart Block is "winter sunset" colors. Lovely blocks. I made two and donated them.</div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/antiqueroses/6935352617/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Orca Bay by Sew Chaos {Kristin}, on Flickr"><img alt="Orca Bay" height="240" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7205/6935352617_ebc9467f7f_m.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="http://quiltville.blogspot.com/p/orca-bay-mystery.html" target="_blank">Orca Bay</a><br />
a mystery quilt by Bonnie Hunter of <a href="http://quiltville.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Quiltville</a>. The mystery's done now, but I'm still plugging away at the steps. I love her quilts, but my-oh-my all the tiny pieces.<br />
<br />
I even made up a song - sung to the melody of the chorus of "Elenor Rigby" by the Beatles. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>Ahhhh</i></div>
<div>
<i>look at all the tiny pieces, </i></div>
<div>
<i>do-do-do-do-do -do -do</i></div>
<div>
<i>ah, look at all the tiny pieces,</i></div>
<div>
<i>where do they all belong?</i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
yes, I know, I'm weird.</div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
back to sewing</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/antiqueroses/6935351137/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="Liz Sneak by Sew Chaos {Kristin}, on Flickr"><img alt="Liz Sneak" height="180" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7062/6935351137_d569981efe_m.jpg" width="240" /></a>Liz's Baby<br />
<br />
A quilt for my sister-in-law, who expecting her first baby. She wanted a uninex (they're waiting to find out) quilt in grays, greens, yellows, blues... It <i>supposed</i> to be a surprise, but here's a sneak peek.</div>
<div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/antiqueroses/6935334579/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" title="CYOA by Sew Chaos {Kristin}, on Flickr"><img alt="CYOA" height="180" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7194/6935334579_f3cc35417c_m.jpg" width="240" /></a>
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<a href="http://www.sewwequilt.com/" target="_blank">Sew We Quilt tutorial -</a> I'm totally excited! I'm going to be guest posting on Friday with a new Choose Your Own Adventure pattern. I've never guest posted anywhere! </div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://cottonrobin.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Cotton Robin</a> - No pictures, since it's a surprise. I had a plan for the border I need to put on the block I was sent - drew it out, built a test mini-block and then realized that the math wasn't going to work without the block being bigger than it's supposed to be. So, on to plan B. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br />
So, that's my month of sewing.<br />
Looks like I accomplished quite a bit when I put it all together in one month.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1Cottage Grove, OR 97424, USA43.797623 -123.059524643.774701 -123.09900660000001 43.820545 -123.0200426tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171007695522993933.post-74433935002042365002012-02-24T13:57:00.000-08:002012-02-24T13:57:40.873-08:00Cultural NightYup, I'm still here. Not a lot of crafting/sewing going on.<br />
I'm pushing through my first term back at school and spending lots of time being a mom.<br />
<br />
Last night was cultural night at the kids' school. The whole family went and had a great time.<br />
<br />
a few observations:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>paper bag crafts <i>during</i> a presentation are a bad idea.</li>
<li>the later the evening gets, the less patient the parents get.</li>
<li>When having a musical guest perform, preview their presentation. (we watched ten minutes of powerpoint slides on the different places he'd lived, complete with old pictures.)</li>
<li>Middle-schoolers are obnoxious where ever they are, you just don't notice as much when there are only 15 in a school of 100.</li>
<li>It bugs me to <i>no-end</i> when performers don't know their lyrics. </li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Tonight I get to get all dressed up and help out at a fundraiser for the Eugene Ballet.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Whoo hoo - adults to talk to!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Have a good weekend! </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171007695522993933.post-89669693370172391662012-01-16T11:08:00.000-08:002012-01-16T11:08:39.683-08:00Whirlwind of a Week!<div style="text-align: center;">
I survived my first week of school!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I managed to self-manage my time and get through the first week of classes. Math won't be easy, but I don't think I'll struggle too much. <a href="http://sewinginthewendycity.blogspot.com/">Wendy</a> offered to help me if I need it, and she already help me a bit! Thanks Wendy!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Not too much happened<i> during</i> the week, sewing wise - Before the week started I finished a few things -</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/antiqueroses/6638897331/" title="boyscout by Sew Chaos {Kristin}, on Flickr"><img alt="boyscout" height="180" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7161/6638897331_520306597a_m.jpg" width="240" /></a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I added a sleeve to the back of this beauty, which was a gift to my father-in-law for Christmas. He's huge into scouts - and he loved his gift. He asked for a sleeve on the back so he could show it off properly at the next scouting event. It's a variation of the <a href="http://sewchaos.blogspot.com/2011/10/choose-your-own-adventure-whole-new.html">A Whole New World Tutorial</a>, up-sized to a layer cake with an added skinny sashing. I think adding the sashing turned it into a "grown-up" quilt.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/antiqueroses/6664445651/" title="IMG_4697 by Sew Chaos {Kristin}, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_4697" height="180" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7018/6664445651_2643d18243_m.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I also whipped up two baby blankies - My nieces turned two and are at the stage were they love playing with babies and wrapping them up. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/antiqueroses/6664382141/" title="eclipse blankie by Sew Chaos {Kristin}, on Flickr"><img alt="eclipse blankie" height="180" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7168/6664382141_fd2e61c649_m.jpg" width="240" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/antiqueroses/6664408155/" title="pieced pinwheel blankie by Sew Chaos {Kristin}, on Flickr"><img alt="pieced pinwheel blankie" height="180" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7168/6664408155_c24c205623_m.jpg" width="240" /></a>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I added a bit of Velcro to two of the corners, so that they can wrap up their babies all by themselves.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/antiqueroses/6664424745/" title="IMG_4694 by Sew Chaos {Kristin}, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_4694" height="180" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7008/6664424745_83c41f3a52_m.jpg" width="240" /></a>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They were a big hit. Since they're two and really don't care if it's not perfect, I played with the <a href="http://www.blocklotto.blogspot.com/">Lotto</a> pattern for <a href="http://www.blocklotto.blogspot.com/2011/12/are-you-ready-for-little-challenge.html">the month</a>, but pieced the arch. I like how it turned out. With the second one I played with building triangle units from pieced squares of fabric. The fabric is from <a href="http://www.connectingthreads.com/Quilting.cfm">Connecting Threads</a>. I found a super sale and picked up the strips and a bit of yardage. They washed beautifully - no bleeding at all.<br />
<br />
I also put away all my works-in-progress. I want to be able to focus on school. The only "quilty things" I have going on is a round robin - <a href="http://cottonrobin.blogspot.com/">The Cotton Robin</a>, and the Block Lotto - I've actually turned down the opportunity to do swaps and challenges. Can you believe it??</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This year I'm limiting my fabric purchasing - I got a bit out of hand over the holidays - ordering fabric from just about everywhere. I've told my Mr. Wonderful that I'm going to try not to have any fabric purchases show up on our account - which means - no credit/debit card purchases. If I save my quarters and find a bit of fabric wonderfulness in town - I can buy it - cash only. To help with that goal, before the start of the new year I ordered fabric to restock what I've used over the past year.<br />
<br />
I ordered another<a href="http://sewchaos.blogspot.com/2011/02/twelve-pounds-of-fabric.html"> 12 lb box of fabric</a> from the <a href="http://www.fatquartershop.com/">Fat Quarter Shop</a> and a bunch of clearance yardage from <a href="http://www.connectingthreads.com/Quilting.cfm">Connecting Threads.</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/antiqueroses/6664197521/" title="12lb by length (2) by Sew Chaos {Kristin}, on Flickr"><img alt="12lb by length (2)" height="180" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7142/6664197521_8d215b25e5_m.jpg" width="240" /></a> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/antiqueroses/6709397211/" title="2012-01-08 14.25.22 by Sew Chaos {Kristin}, on Flickr"><img alt="2012-01-08 14.25.22" height="180" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7032/6709397211_bec5a4c940_m.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I was able to sort through, measure and pet all that fabric before the week started. I'll do a more detailed post about the contents of the fabric boxes, later.<br />
<br />
Saturday I got to go fabric shopping, picking out baby fabrics for my SIL - Liz - she's expecting her first in April - AND they've decided to be surpised, so my Mom-in-law and I had fun looking for unisex fabrics. That's the only "project" I've got going right now. I'm really trying to make this attempt at school work.<br />
<br />
One final note - Winter finally came to the Pacific Northwest!<br />
Over the weekend we recieved over 4 inches of snow! It's so pretty, 29 degrees - cold!, and the kids are having a blast playing in it. <br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/antiqueroses/6709478927/" title="2012-01-16 07.55.15 by Sew Chaos {Kristin}, on Flickr"><img alt="2012-01-16 07.55.15" height="180" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7007/6709478927_934705a275_m.jpg" width="240" /></a>
<br />
<br />
I'm hoping they will get to go to school tomorrow - I know I need the time to work!</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3171007695522993933.post-17426082350314088882012-01-04T12:49:00.000-08:002012-01-04T12:49:00.787-08:00Pre-Washing Fabrics<div style="text-align: center;">
Do you pre-wash?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I used to faithfully wash all my fabric before I folded them and put them away.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then I stopped.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I washed a few finished quilts that hadn't been pre-washed and saw no differences.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So why bother with the extra laundry?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I do wash any fabric that I receive secondhand, as well as my solid reds - if I'm using a lot of it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
While I don't pre-wash as a matter of course, I <b>completely </b>support/understand the desire to have fabrics pre-washed, especially in a swap or at the <a href="http://blocklotto.blogspot.com/">Lotto</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Open of the reasons I love the Lotto is the scrappiness of it. But washing scraps?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It can be done, and its easy. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My secret?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I use delicates bags.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
- those mesh bags that you can put tights and what-not in, so they don't get stretched in the wash.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's really simple - </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I unfold all the fabric scraps to be washed and plop them in the bag. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I do make sure they're larger than I actually need. </i> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then the bag gets tossed in the next load of laundry to go in the washer - this one was washed with shirts, socks and jersey things, but I've washed fabric like this with everything from Jeans and towels to sheets.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkIe-e_I_MicyswuG1eULYjX2jC3i-cSeGO04BuLZzARPQ-bxmQng63R6A-502Lmg22VvNoKiP4usCEIf9qWOdZ0oxzXzBwISYuKi7WWTQfAbh6mOQXXJ6QqX64UFRTOsPbnYAeXs1Zj4/s1600/prewashed+in+bag.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkIe-e_I_MicyswuG1eULYjX2jC3i-cSeGO04BuLZzARPQ-bxmQng63R6A-502Lmg22VvNoKiP4usCEIf9qWOdZ0oxzXzBwISYuKi7WWTQfAbh6mOQXXJ6QqX64UFRTOsPbnYAeXs1Zj4/s320/prewashed+in+bag.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Usually when the dryer's done, they're not completely dry, which is just dandy, cause I like ironing damp fabric.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They do come out ridiculously wrinkled.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2L6r-3-cP_OX4d5BPm-eE7yQRMdhIbUbAMUdg5Rizyz3dQ6-g9oDGa_pnToCC21MjSKU9qM2CdIaHJS5cfSQyXUZ2bMOW0IwqFfC5mBK-DhCE9mY6hZnkrGDQ3dsJJmoauXd-6SydsHk/s1600/IMG_4662.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2L6r-3-cP_OX4d5BPm-eE7yQRMdhIbUbAMUdg5Rizyz3dQ6-g9oDGa_pnToCC21MjSKU9qM2CdIaHJS5cfSQyXUZ2bMOW0IwqFfC5mBK-DhCE9mY6hZnkrGDQ3dsJJmoauXd-6SydsHk/s320/IMG_4662.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(<i>this is after ironing without spraying it with water</i>)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I use a hot iron and a spray bottle of water and that works.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Surprisingly there is very little shrinkage.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Just to see, I threw a left-over pre-cut charm in the bag with the rest.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I didn't measure it before, and I can't assume it was actually 5" square -</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>(the last pack of pre-cuts that I used weren't actually 5" square - which I didn't realize until I tried line up 4-patches, but that is another story) </i> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
- but it was roughly 5"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
After ironing:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MObd5obqUMI/TwS3Y-Q-TUI/AAAAAAAAAqE/2ND12O_pyz8/s1600/prewash+shrinkage.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MObd5obqUMI/TwS3Y-Q-TUI/AAAAAAAAAqE/2ND12O_pyz8/s320/prewash+shrinkage.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It lost about 1/4" and that doesn't count the fuzzy edge.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I like the fuzzy edge. I try to leave it uncut if I'm not using the whole piece of fabric.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ocadh9Ztl-k/TwS37ZL4LAI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/9LtZRWEKl9Y/s1600/prewash+fuzz+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ocadh9Ztl-k/TwS37ZL4LAI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/9LtZRWEKl9Y/s320/prewash+fuzz+%25282%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That's how I can tell it's been pre-washed!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1