tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85215448389205028732024-03-14T01:12:46.044-07:00BrazenMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.comBlogger158125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8521544838920502873.post-90545991969629495712013-02-18T15:39:00.001-08:002013-02-18T15:39:24.619-08:00Sewn - Tunic In the fall I was gifted some amazing fabrics. Like designer fabrics. Wools, alpaca and camel. Yum. I have them all paired up with patterns - coat and jacket for me, a dress <a href="http://www.colettepatterns.com/shop/negroni">shirt</a> for the Mister, a shirt for Lil'G and a tunic for her as well.<br />
The tunic is made from a <a href="http://figgyspatterns.com/patterns/sunki/">pattern</a> by Figgy's from Portland, OR. and was a delight to work with. Holy stylish details! The fabric was another story entirely. It all began with laying out the pattern, as it usually does. The fabric is a tweed from Chanel (!!!) and is absolutely stunning. The colour leaves something to be desired....<br />
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Now, this fabric has a very definite plaid pattern. I tried laying this out in a single layer hoping that I would have nice straight vertical lines that matched up. Nope. I tried again with it doubled up. Nope. This fabric had a mind of its own, shimmying and slithering all over the place. You wouldn't think a wool could do that but yes, it can. I finally got the pieces cut out and went to begin sewing. Not only does this fabric wiggle all over the place, the pieces were completely stretching out of shape. Argh! I almost decided to say forget it and find some new fabric. Almost. <br />
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The tunic is unlined. The fabric is <strike>a nightmare</strike> woven loosely and really needs a lining. I ended up interlining it with a pink cotton I had and saved this tunic from the garbage. The pattern says a wool can be used but I found that with the interlining the seams became very bulky. I ended up serging the allowances wherever I could. For the hems I was to turn under 1/4" then turn under 1" and stitch. Too bulky so I just serged the edge, turned under the inch and stitched the hem. It isn't the nicest finish but I did what I had to. <br />
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I am especially fond of the side panels that I cut on the bias....</div>
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The plaid does not match up at the back seam and is nowhere near straight but Lil'G loves it. In the end that is all that matters to me. She is especially smitten with the pockets.<br />
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I ended up making the size 4/5 for the width and using the 6/7 for the length since Lil'G is so tall and skinny. <br />
It is a dress on her right now but the way she has been growing it will be a tunic in no time. <br />
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Cutie. <br />
xo<br />
<br />Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8521544838920502873.post-37523178783960029712013-02-14T13:10:00.001-08:002013-02-14T13:10:59.636-08:00blargh.Lil' G has the stomach flu, hence the blargh. She was complaining about a weird stomach this morning but she will often do this to avoid eating her breakfast. So I sent her to school. In all fairness, she didn't want to miss school because they had all sorts of fun Valentine's Day activities planned. Well, about 10am I got a call from the school. Blarf. And more more blarf. Poor kid is crushed to be missing all the fun. I gently explained to her that it really is just another day and there will be other fun days at school. Still crushed. <br />
At least she got her pouch full of Valentine's to bring home. <br />
She is quietly reading in bed, sipping on tea. Hopefully napping.<br />
I was going to make a fancy schmancy dinner tonight because it is also our anniversary. I always make us a nice dinner and this is how we celebrate us.* This was also upsetting to Lil'G. I assured her I would still make us a fancy dinner. It would just be when she was feeling better. <br />
Poor kid.<br />
Do I dare write more on food and cooking now?<br />
I have to since I am so excited about this new cookbook I got about a month ago. <a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/book/"> The Smitten Kitchen Cookbook by Deb Perelman</a>. It is fantastic! I have been cooking from it a lot - the short ribs are amazing! Truthfully, everything I have made from this book has been amazing. I wanted to make something for my sister-in-law because she is awesome. Also she was giving me a free haircut yesterday and I like to bring her something that she wouldn't normally get/make for herself (she doesn't bake). Aaaaaand she loves chocolate so the brownie roll out cookies were a must. <br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">The hearts were just too perfect. </span></div>
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They are scrumptious. Chocolatey without being too sweet, crispy and still moist in the center. Perfect for dunking. Yum! <br />
I hope you all get to do something you love today!<br />
xo <br />
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* Our anniversary isn't actually on Valentine's day. We don't really know when it is since we aren't legally married. We just know that we started dating around this time in February. One year we decided to pick a day to be our Anniversary. We grabbed a calendar, closed our eyes and randomly pointed to a spot on said calendar. My finger was pointing to the 14th. So be it. Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8521544838920502873.post-25125362276398908022013-02-13T10:37:00.002-08:002013-02-13T12:48:47.016-08:00Making...<div style="text-align: center;">
I have been finding time to sew where ever I can. I find that if I can get a half hour here and a half hour there projects will get finished. Yay! Admittedly they have been small and straight-forward projects. Mostly pjs. For kids. Just before Christmas I managed to get not one but two pairs made for my cousin's little guys. I used <a href="http://www.simplicity.com/p-2433-child-sleepwear.aspx">this pattern</a> and some really awesome flannel and came up with these:</div>
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They were a huge hit!<br />
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My daughter gets a pair of mommy made pjs to open on Christmas eve and this year was no different. She used to be into pink and purple and sparkly and floofy but this year she declared that she no longer liked those things. Well, except for the sparkly. So I searched for the perfect fabric for her pjs and when I found this cream flannel with owls, deer and squirrels I knew she would love it.<br />
I used the same pattern as I did for my cousin's boys but made the girly variation. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2HECDWXYLOqKp9JZWUYFGonPJh8IExtHcABawMHV-yLLWP82y2gNmfAOl8fvExlrpJ4LLvuRvrMeYW-br6r882ICo4_4ATZYcBWWAVa6RmreMfdGn0rlvSu_95c-_YAcF12FeqU7GWtlf/s1600/IMG_8173.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2HECDWXYLOqKp9JZWUYFGonPJh8IExtHcABawMHV-yLLWP82y2gNmfAOl8fvExlrpJ4LLvuRvrMeYW-br6r882ICo4_4ATZYcBWWAVa6RmreMfdGn0rlvSu_95c-_YAcF12FeqU7GWtlf/s320/IMG_8173.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Her pajamas came out quite large. She is pretty teeny but holy huge. I usually have her around to measure but she was visiting her grandparents and there were only 2 days left until Christmas so I just followed the pattern cause you know, it seemed in the ball park.... Oh well, at least they will still fit her next winter. And maybe even the winter after that. <br />
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I also made a pair of awesome kimono pajamas for an awesome two year old girl<u>:</u><br />
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I am completely in love with the cuteness...<br />
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<a href="http://oliverands.com/oliver-and-s-patterns/OLV-OS008BT.html">This</a> is hands down my favourite pattern for kids. So well written and you come up with a really beautiful garment. <br />
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Now I am working on a cute jumper/tunic for Lil'G. So far, it is driving me a bit mad. More on that soon. <br />
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Life has been crazy and exhausting but I am so happy when I can find that little bit of time to create something lovely. Especially something so warm and cozy for the little one's in my life. <br />
xo<br />
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<br />Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8521544838920502873.post-60901871171757697152012-09-20T17:20:00.001-07:002012-09-20T21:30:03.719-07:00Right Now:: I am drowning in laundry.<br />
: And cucumbers. I have made regular dill pickles and bread and butter pickles. They are <i>so</i> good! I am loving the bread and butter pickles on burgers. Yum!<br />
: The flowers in the garden are beautiful. <br />
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<br />
: The Little Man is developing such a personality! He is such a happy boy. He is chatty and has started grasping for toys and shoving them in his mouth. <br />
: We are already talking about all the Halooween costume possibilities! Ninja, tiger, and ninja princess are at the top of said list. <br />
: The summer sunshine has decided to stay for a little while longer.<br />
xoMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8521544838920502873.post-90333179912298181572012-08-30T16:15:00.000-07:002012-08-30T16:25:01.223-07:00Right Now:<div style="text-align: center;">
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<br />
:I am feeling the end of summer. The nights are getting cooler and the days are not quite so sweltering.<br />
:We are getting ready for school. Grade One!<br />
:We celebrated a 6th birthday. I cannot believe she is already six. <br />
:We are finding our rhythm as a family of four. Its a crazy off kilter rhythm but it is ours.<br />
:I am enjoying my little boy and his sweet personality and gorgeous grins. <br />
:I
am struggling to keep my house clean and laundry done and meals
cooked. I am also learning to take a breath and let it go. This is
hard for me. <br />
:I am so excited to sew some flannel pjs for my cousin's little boys!<br />
:We are picking so many cucumbers from the garden. Hello pickles!<br />
:I am finishing up a sweater for myself, a hat for a special someone and planning a whole lot more knitting projects.<br />
:I am breastfeeding all day long. This boy likes to eat!<br />
:I am so grateful for all I have in my life.<br />
xoMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8521544838920502873.post-65837053196417224742012-06-20T11:13:00.000-07:002012-06-20T11:31:50.026-07:00Introducing...Cole Jack Thomas.<br />
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He was born on the third of June after a fairly short labour. I was induced three weeks early because my blood pressure suddenly went haywire and as it turns out I was quite ill. So it was better for me and the baby to be "less pregnant". I didn't get to have the home birth that I wanted but I am okay with that. <br />
Cole is tiny but healthy. We have been having some weight gaining issues so I have been nursing and pumping pretty much non-stop for two and a half weeks. <br />
G. is over the moon to be a big sister and I have been so impressed with how she has taken this major life change in stride. She continues to amaze and inspire me every day. I love that little girl.<br />
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I will try to post a little bit here and there but bear with me. Life is crazy right now. I am lucky if I find time for a shower most days.<br />
Off to smooch some baby cheeks!<br />
xoMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8521544838920502873.post-89844746379316633702012-05-28T13:51:00.001-07:002012-05-28T13:51:50.034-07:00MadeWe had a barbeque last night and I made this amazing salad to have as a side. I found <a href="http://www.bonappetit.com/recipes/2012/06/quinoa-broccoli-and-feta-salad" style="color: blue;">this recipe</a> on Bon Appetit's website and modified it heavily. Gosh, it was so delicious I couldn't stop eating it!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Quinoa Broccoli Salad</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 1/2 cups uncooked quinoa</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">2 1/4 cups water </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 head broccoli, cut into small florets, lightly steamed and cooled</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">3 green onions, chopped</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">1/4 cup parsley, minced</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">1/4 cup fresh mint, minced</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">6 Tbsp. olive oil</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">juice of one lemon, about 1/4 cup</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">2-3 Tbsp. rice vinegar</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">1/3 cup toasted pumpkin seeds</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">salt and pepper</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Rinse the quinoa well and drain. Put in a pot with the water, bring to a boil, cover and turn heat down to low. Cook for 15 min. Turn off heat and let sit another 5-10 min., covered. Transfer cooked quinoa to a bowl and fluff with a fork. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Add remaining ingredients and season to your taste. Enjoy!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">*We had this alongside tamari and garlic marinated strip loin, grilled to a perfect medium rare and grilled asparagus. It was fabulous! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><b> </b></span></div>
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<br />Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8521544838920502873.post-41652801924589478432012-05-26T11:46:00.001-07:002012-05-26T11:46:39.088-07:00Good day...The sun is back! I hope you all get to go outside and enjoy it!<br />
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Happy weekend! xoMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8521544838920502873.post-72056824896686697872012-05-22T16:16:00.001-07:002012-05-22T16:16:36.036-07:00Baaa!I work with some really fantastic people. Julia is one of the lovelies. She and her husband have a farm on the North Shore of Kootenay lake. They were gracious enough to take us for a tour and introduce us to all their fantastic animals. <br />
Lil'G was smitten with the chicks. They were a mix of heritage breeds and they were so cute.G got quite good at wrangling them and wanted to show us every single one. <br />
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I loved the alpacas. Their hairdo's cracked me up! Did you know that they are related to camels?<br />
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The Icelandic sheep were very sweet and gentle and their babies were gorgeous. <br />
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There were also two cows but they were very protective of their babies so we didn't get too close. <br />
And of course there were the requisite farm dogs. Sweet and goofy and always up for a game of fetch. <br />
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Thank you, Julia, for your hospitality. It really made our day!Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8521544838920502873.post-76645880960619176002012-05-19T18:26:00.000-07:002012-05-19T18:26:41.742-07:00MakingI did a little sewing today. It has been <i>way </i>too long since I sat down in front of my machine and made something. I cannot let that much time pass again! <br />
I made a simple little summer skirt for Lil'G. <br />
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The fabric is from a thrifted men's dress shirt that I had originally intended to turn into a maternity shirt. Who was I kidding? I never wear collared shirts and so it went into the to-do pile. I pulled it out today and started cutting. <br />
I didn't use a pattern and I didn't take any pictures of the process - sorry. First I cut off the sleeves. Then I just cut the shirt under the arms, straight across the chest. I sewed a simple casing at the waist for the elastic, inserted the elastic and hemmed the bottom. I used an existing skirt to eyeball the length. I also stitched closed the button band because it gaped a little. Then I made some pockets with the fabric from one of the sleeves.<br />
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They are self lined, have a little pleat and a little band at the top. Again I just eyeballed placement. No one is ever going to notice if they aren't perfectly centered when the five year old wearing it goes whizzing past and wants to show you how her skirt twirls. Not bad for $2. I can't wait for her to see it!<br />
I also finally took some pictures of another little sweater I made for the Wee Babe. <br />
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It is the <a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/attis/little-coffee-bean-cardigan">Coffee Bean cardigan </a>by Elizabeth Smith. I cannot say enough good things about this pattern. It was so fun to knit with all the stripes! It was so easy! It wasn't boring even though it was all stockinette! It was so well written! <br />
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It turned out really sweet and I love the buttons. I am hoping it will fit the baby in the fall. <br />
Have you been making anything?<br />
xoMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8521544838920502873.post-498433721419896252012-05-11T16:44:00.000-07:002012-05-11T16:44:52.062-07:00Some days.......you just need a cookie. Today we made these.<br />
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Chocolate chip cookies with dried apricots from the <a href="http://www.amazon.ca/Rebar-Modern-Cookbook-Audrey-Alsterburg/dp/0968862306" style="color: blue;">Rebar Cookbook</a>.<br />
So good.<br />
xoMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8521544838920502873.post-28708725328768216592012-05-02T15:25:00.000-07:002012-05-02T15:25:12.343-07:00We went to......the fair. <br />
A fabulous time was had by all. Thanks to Miss D for keeping me company while The Wee Beast and the Mister went on the rides!<br />
xo<br />
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<br />Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8521544838920502873.post-29300914298190781452012-04-27T13:57:00.001-07:002012-04-27T13:57:30.917-07:00These days......I have been trying to take it easy. Truth be told, I find it difficult. I like to be up and about doing things. But I have been getting some cramping and some pretty brutal round ligament pain so I have been told to do a little less. So...I have finished work ( Woohoo!), have been slowly organizing my sewing area (the Mister built me some new shelves!) and getting everything ready for the Wee Babe set to join us. This has meant sorting through the things I kept from my first baby, trying to figure out if we need anything. Turns out, thankfully, we don't. I have also been gathering the supplies needed for the home birth we are planning. That has been finished too!<br />
And of course, the knitting has continued. I just sewed the buttons on this today:<br />
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<span style="color: blue;"> </span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/attis/puerperium-cardigan"><span style="color: blue;">Rav notes</span></a></span></div>
And because we cloth diaper, I have made some wool soakers:<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">I can't get this picture to flip! </span></div>
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<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/attis/curly-purly-soaker-pattern-2"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Rav notes</span></a></div>
Cute, huh!<br />
I haven't shared very many pictures of my pregnant self, mostly because I feel huge. Here I am at almost 32 weeks. Seeing the picture, I don't look as massive as I feel. <br />
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I am off to go do some more organizing and knitting. I think a cup of tea may be in order as well! Have a lovely weekend! xo<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYREl205vhSlpOwCrgpfmu_8PpsI8mphMpt5ErLMQyCYzTf58lxBRymp-cBKaYW3OfYQKQhxVGW4HfNlccvyABtQYNl1j1Ck0lsSFbgmnQi7wpxbm4IYjf794URko6FQp1wvYEROydETUP/s1600/IMG_6643.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8521544838920502873.post-14826910261658954142012-04-21T18:02:00.001-07:002012-04-21T18:02:44.528-07:00So far......in this pregnancy I have had no terribly weird cravings. I have really been enjoying oranges even though I am generally not a huge fan. A lot of expecting mamas I have talked to have experienced this very same thing. The other thing I have been wanting to eat is meat. Lots of meat. <br />
I am normally a meat eater and eat it several times a week but I want to eat it every day, with every meal. I would be perfectly happy to sit down to a perfectly grilled steak. And nothing else. <br />
Also, I have been craving bacon. <br />
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I made a bacon, broccoli, and mushroom quiche the other day. I had a pizza with pancetta, mushrooms, spinach and roasted peppers for dinner on Tuesday. I made <a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/2012/02/fried-egg-sandwich-with-bacon-and-blue-cheese/">this sandwich</a> minus the blue cheese for lunch a while back. I have been contemplating what I could possibly eat with <a href="http://gasstronomy.blogspot.ca/2010/12/bacon-jam.html">this</a>. I made spaghetti carbonara. And <a href="http://joythebaker.com/2012/03/coffee-bacon-sandwiches/">this sandwich</a> has been making my mouth water. Don't even get me started on bacon wrapped dates. <br />
I think I may have a problem. <br />
xoMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8521544838920502873.post-46894472298965483512012-04-02T16:43:00.000-07:002012-04-02T16:43:29.115-07:00Knitting: BeaniesI have finished a couple of little newborn beanies. They are so fun to make! I may have a problem. Maybe some charity knitting is in my future.....<br />
The first one is a little cabled owl beanie in a cotton wool blend. I modified the pattern slightly (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/attis/owlie-hat" style="color: blue;">Rav notes</a>) and love how it turned out. I think I will only sew on one set of eyes.<br />
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The second is a sweet little Leafy beanie in a leaf green cotton. <br />
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The colour just refuses to photograph. I followed the pattern exactly (<a href="http://www.ravelry.com/projects/attis/leafy-newborn-beanie" style="color: blue;">Rav notes</a>). I think it came out beautifully. Isn't the little leaf detail sweet?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0KhYrybN-I2PaYiJ-Qc2SYnJrH98xm2DlwmrjWYAbPRmz0cCiQXt4GXEAsg8NrJUmlYO5Czi9aGjbn23eO4YxNIfRtDxcOKNRQG1eZ9aN8cfjpmV-_lL1Lar1rg5euIIMiici_iYYWkcr/s1600/IMG_6624.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0KhYrybN-I2PaYiJ-Qc2SYnJrH98xm2DlwmrjWYAbPRmz0cCiQXt4GXEAsg8NrJUmlYO5Czi9aGjbn23eO4YxNIfRtDxcOKNRQG1eZ9aN8cfjpmV-_lL1Lar1rg5euIIMiici_iYYWkcr/s320/IMG_6624.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Baby knitting is so much fun and is almost instant gratification since everything is so tiny.<br />
I'm off to peruse some more patterns and then must get on making dinner. Tonight I am making Pasta Carbonara with spring peas. Mmmmmm!<br />
xoMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8521544838920502873.post-83031155739266133112012-03-26T10:51:00.000-07:002012-03-26T10:51:24.663-07:00My favourite dessertI love dessert. It is the reason I learned how to bake. I can still remember my first batch of cookies - how I didn't measure the flour properly and they just turned into one big cookie. But I was 7 or 8 and at that age what is better than one giant cookie?<br />
Since that time I have made a lot of cookies and contrary to the title of this post I would be hard pressed to come up with a favourite dessert. This one would surely make my Top Ten.<br />
Lemon Meringue Pie. What's not to love? Lemon-y filling that's not too sweet. Fluffy as a cloud meringue. Flaky buttery crust. Mmmmmm!<br />
I had the good luck of finding some Meyer lemons at the store the other day. If you can't find these, regular lemons will do. <br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Lemon Meringue Pie</span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFrQZb4By6uQ-CVJ6gs826LFD0B5Lxrya-thNjSP5yz-M7yK_5vxWSNB30A28xwxtUWwpEJqMsaK6EdNOnQmQ-rs7bnBvzvxezR-E_pPZ1Gu2VkkPfR1yk9paVYUXaKsiSqa4Dzm5ZNl-N/s1600/IMG_6592.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFrQZb4By6uQ-CVJ6gs826LFD0B5Lxrya-thNjSP5yz-M7yK_5vxWSNB30A28xwxtUWwpEJqMsaK6EdNOnQmQ-rs7bnBvzvxezR-E_pPZ1Gu2VkkPfR1yk9paVYUXaKsiSqa4Dzm5ZNl-N/s320/IMG_6592.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Crust:</b></div>
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1 1/2 c. all purpose flour</div>
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1 Tbsp. sugar</div>
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1/2 tsp. salt</div>
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2/3 c. cold unsalted butter, diced</div>
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1 egg</div>
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1 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar</div>
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Put dry ingredients into food processor. Pulse to blend. Add cold butter chunks and process until its a rough crumbly texture and you can still see bits of butter. Add egg and vinegar and process just until dough starts to come together. Shape dough into a disc, wrap and refrigerate for an hour. </div>
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Preheat oven to 400 F. On lightly floured surface roll out dough until its about a 1/4-inch thick. Line a 9-inch pie plate with dough. Tuck in the rough edges and crimp with your fingers. Line pastry with aluminum foil and weigh down with pie weights, dry beans or rice. (This is calle<span style="color: blue;">d </span><a href="http://www.wikihow.com/Blind-Bake" style="color: blue;">blind baking</a>. I have a jar of mixed dry beans in my cupboard that I use for this. If you are planning on keeping the beans for re-use, make sure you label them!) Bake for 10 min, reduce heat to 375F and bake 15 min. more. Remove foil and weights and bake 10 min. more, until center of pie shell has dried out. </div>
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Cool completely before filling. </div>
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<b>Filling:</b></div>
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1 1/4 c. sugar</div>
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1 1/2 c. cold water</div>
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5 Tbsp. cornstarch</div>
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5 egg yolks, reserve those whites </div>
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pinch of salt</div>
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zest of 1 lemon</div>
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1/2 c. fresh lemon juice, about 2 lemons</div>
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2 Tbsp. unsalted butter</div>
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Whisk sugar, water and cornstarch in a heavy bottomed saucepan. Whisk in egg yolks and salt and cook over low heat for 5 min., whisking constantly. Increase heat to medium and, still whisking, cook until filling is glossy and very thick. Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest and juice and butter. Pour into cooled crust and refrigerate until set, about 4 hours. </div>
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<b>Meringue:</b></div>
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5 egg whites</div>
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1/2 tsp. cream of tartar</div>
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1 Tbsp. cornstarch ( I don't always add this)</div>
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1/3 c. sugar</div>
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Turn on your broiler. </div>
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Whip egg whites with cream of tartar and cornstarch until foamy. While whipping, gradually add sugar. Continue beating until whites hold a stiff peak. Dollop meringue over lemon filling. Using upward sweeping motions make pretty little peaks that will get nice and browned. </div>
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Stick whole pie under broiler and watch carefully. You don't want that meringue to burn! It should just brown lightly, like the outside of a perfectly toasted marshmallow. Chill pie or eat right away. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm_C5v66Gt5zSshhnBg1Io9bfqygYOOXaX6zmE4aYIYNQnTZQUmDDS_jSwtzH5tbjaIDk1NeTIGFOj-aqMFMK04k9vuwu1vGkhgkZqPHbgHC1QJTvpZIi3SjVIm0HlTUU4FOINswy3nhEA/s1600/IMG_6594.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm_C5v66Gt5zSshhnBg1Io9bfqygYOOXaX6zmE4aYIYNQnTZQUmDDS_jSwtzH5tbjaIDk1NeTIGFOj-aqMFMK04k9vuwu1vGkhgkZqPHbgHC1QJTvpZIi3SjVIm0HlTUU4FOINswy3nhEA/s320/IMG_6594.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Hope you enjoy this pie! xo</div>
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<br /></div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8521544838920502873.post-84887474225382039322012-03-25T18:31:00.001-07:002012-03-25T18:31:46.384-07:00Right now I'm loving.......that the sun is finally shining! It felt like spring today!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgilS8BfDPNupmgnV6M4YIRLHyAtZkbJiyct9N0O2BaKIwstnGCa7zQE7llKRfIHNji2-WYCdQiMconuSSfvg9x_XRDfK6f_e-Knhnf0pjLgM3pyUZlOuMpZICiNK_en93P71D2HZvIeUzt/s1600/IMG_6596.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgilS8BfDPNupmgnV6M4YIRLHyAtZkbJiyct9N0O2BaKIwstnGCa7zQE7llKRfIHNji2-WYCdQiMconuSSfvg9x_XRDfK6f_e-Knhnf0pjLgM3pyUZlOuMpZICiNK_en93P71D2HZvIeUzt/s320/IMG_6596.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
....the sound of the Mister playing <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ogxTQXAgY3Q" style="color: blue;">'<i>Sleepwalk'</i></a> on the ukelele. I love that song. <br />
....the tiredness in my legs from a long walk in the sun.<br />
....the little lacy bonnet I just finished for a sweet little soon-to-be-one-year old.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIwkE-MPYdqcu_7KXscXNM_PteGPghRgLu-5Penu8xbJ8w7yOxftrlhlzOi9gSBlvHpHUB9l5fKuEAQn2S-L7JCXcqjjRM7LpvUGkYxyF4vyVDNTsQttphkNyHnZs893KWtBd5WW5xgKyz/s1600/IMG_6607.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIwkE-MPYdqcu_7KXscXNM_PteGPghRgLu-5Penu8xbJ8w7yOxftrlhlzOi9gSBlvHpHUB9l5fKuEAQn2S-L7JCXcqjjRM7LpvUGkYxyF4vyVDNTsQttphkNyHnZs893KWtBd5WW5xgKyz/s320/IMG_6607.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
....the smell of chicken roasting in the oven.<br />
....this <a href="http://joythebaker.com/" style="color: blue;">blog</a>. Joy is hilarious and her recipes are amazing!<br />
....my littlest bean bouncing around in my belly. <br />
xoMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8521544838920502873.post-16304489011803079572012-03-05T17:04:00.000-08:002012-03-05T17:04:14.452-08:00Its almost done....finally!Some of you may know that we <a href="http://brazenbags.blogspot.com/2009/09/destruct-o-matic.html" style="color: blue;">renovated</a> our <a href="http://brazenbags.blogspot.com/2009/09/fall-is-in-air.html" style="color: blue;">house</a> a couple of years back. We have been living in it because, well....its liveable. The only things left to do were lay the hardwood floors and finish the bathroom. The sink and toilet worked but our beautiful tub sat in the corner, un-plumbed and un-tiled. We had all the tiles but neither the Mister or I know the first thing about tiling. And we were unrealistically optimistic in thinking we would have the time to do it ourselves. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR9QFy-XEV_0wPw-fihc3NOBl6IjlmyJYKD4joG2y2g_RDS19WYqTuUSVLHCrcsiUT-vNayhxcXSvERek-msFMqNId4FL2bg6qhMbWGg0IMTO_qY_03RSNAIwuvdAaB5XcxXBUirXOnmPo/s1600/IMG_6530.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR9QFy-XEV_0wPw-fihc3NOBl6IjlmyJYKD4joG2y2g_RDS19WYqTuUSVLHCrcsiUT-vNayhxcXSvERek-msFMqNId4FL2bg6qhMbWGg0IMTO_qY_03RSNAIwuvdAaB5XcxXBUirXOnmPo/s320/IMG_6530.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Enter my awesome brother. He really is one of the most fantastic people I know. He owns his own<span style="color: blue;"> </span><a href="http://www.yellowpages.ca/search/re/1/2505510418" style="color: blue;">drywall company</a> and in his day to day he meets a lot of different people. A lot of these people work in the trades as well. So he hooks us up with a bloke who is a stone mason by trade ( The guy used to work in England restoring old stone churches!) but also knows a heck of a lot about tiling a bathroom. <br />
He has been tiling our bathroom. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC-utAeXZ5mpwtQV23tZ1pVr1s6HIYLGLvJGP864e3qDuMqwJFDxYEgH-9IV4EMpK4Ev6_1Ybl4CtvrWKoOftjXnaaWYGlPPYu5Eb2eQVjKgb2iLqOVxdZk4pHuQwAcMpZQ05147x6ZnIw/s1600/IMG_6536.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC-utAeXZ5mpwtQV23tZ1pVr1s6HIYLGLvJGP864e3qDuMqwJFDxYEgH-9IV4EMpK4Ev6_1Ybl4CtvrWKoOftjXnaaWYGlPPYu5Eb2eQVjKgb2iLqOVxdZk4pHuQwAcMpZQ05147x6ZnIw/s320/IMG_6536.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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It is beautiful. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqDw6F2sJG8Hx9P7bGkbKAqQQ8qmxk4bv1oQR-frwRJamZKMYvmgbgFoAkRD-7D5icn9VdV2df1fc_r-NK9dibV_a0FK7-qX0YMfJ0reTcklYVwq1ixfHby6RKsouMMkcd3bRlsbk65aDn/s1600/IMG_6540.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqDw6F2sJG8Hx9P7bGkbKAqQQ8qmxk4bv1oQR-frwRJamZKMYvmgbgFoAkRD-7D5icn9VdV2df1fc_r-NK9dibV_a0FK7-qX0YMfJ0reTcklYVwq1ixfHby6RKsouMMkcd3bRlsbk65aDn/s320/IMG_6540.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0iNANQuSsn3Hs8VI9blqvYnHxJz5RbDj5mg_jTvDLZMwSt-DY0nxyolFVu47ImNQlbPDMmyB2v6ca-E0Z_kc2aXEz0R7qqgUoNLBkuvgsRCwr2T77C_-M6Z-ry7szBrjr9QOFXVOGIjdK/s1600/IMG_6545.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0iNANQuSsn3Hs8VI9blqvYnHxJz5RbDj5mg_jTvDLZMwSt-DY0nxyolFVu47ImNQlbPDMmyB2v6ca-E0Z_kc2aXEz0R7qqgUoNLBkuvgsRCwr2T77C_-M6Z-ry7szBrjr9QOFXVOGIjdK/s320/IMG_6545.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
Tomorrow there is a bit of touch up to be done and then it is on to grouting. It is almost done! I will share more photos once its all done. <br />
I can hardly wait to have a hot-water-tank-draining-soak in my new bath. xoMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8521544838920502873.post-90284913271841438932012-03-02T12:06:00.000-08:002012-03-02T12:06:09.303-08:00A Finished Item!I finished knitting my first baby item! It is a little wool vest made from a vintage <a href="http://www.vintagepurls.co.nz/Downloads/SirdarVestandPants.pdf">Sirdar pattern</a>. The knitting was really mindless ( An entire sweater in 3x1 rib?! On #3 needles? What was I thinking?!?!) and turned out really cute. The picture makes it look really wonky for some reason but it doesn't look like that in real life. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOOQ1m3Bbep2Wcio3ZguWDxfUG6AWI8EgBzvtN4_NXG67iPNIaMUyVvV-LrmLWtQqV_pKhBJOG-Q7bdkdtpqYO3x2wXIWimYSj5IS2h7HDFdDVpQtfbNa-6NBJteEw2-RjLC0mK77LWpDx/s1600/IMG_6526.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOOQ1m3Bbep2Wcio3ZguWDxfUG6AWI8EgBzvtN4_NXG67iPNIaMUyVvV-LrmLWtQqV_pKhBJOG-Q7bdkdtpqYO3x2wXIWimYSj5IS2h7HDFdDVpQtfbNa-6NBJteEw2-RjLC0mK77LWpDx/s320/IMG_6526.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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It is sooooo tiny! I have forgotten how little babies are!<br />
I seamed up the vest and immediately started on the next item. Can you guess what it is? Here is a hint: Its a Surprise. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP_po23T_NU4eLw084SBZpQbSDNDFP3mLnF4xp3RMVmv6uY-Tnv9qQgXHBK7l3GqGuQ9ff_6YwDR4I-tXW2HGVX1Xy9SPr-9jHb-BwEkRFB-cm7sOVu8IDkSCkEIC0l2f_FVeR1muVgpPg/s1600/IMG_6535.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP_po23T_NU4eLw084SBZpQbSDNDFP3mLnF4xp3RMVmv6uY-Tnv9qQgXHBK7l3GqGuQ9ff_6YwDR4I-tXW2HGVX1Xy9SPr-9jHb-BwEkRFB-cm7sOVu8IDkSCkEIC0l2f_FVeR1muVgpPg/s320/IMG_6535.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
The yarn is luscious hand dyed merino in a worsted weight from <a href="http://www.lornaslaces.net/">Lorna's Laces</a>. I cannot believe how soft it is! I want to knit a blanket out of it for myself!<br />
Off to feed my kiddo who is home sick today. Hope you all have a lovely weekend! xoMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8521544838920502873.post-79109859790103989332012-03-01T12:05:00.002-08:002012-03-01T12:05:27.413-08:00SushiAt my daughter's school they have Sushi Day every Friday. She had to miss school one Friday and was very upset about missing Sushi Day. So we had our own sushi day at home - it was amazing! I used to be a cook at a Japanese restaurant and the girls who rolled sushi taught me so many invaluable things about making rolls. The smell of the vinegar-y <a href="http://www.justhungry.com/2003/11/japanese_basics_1.html" style="color: blue;">rice</a><span style="color: blue;"> </span>and the nori is one of my favourite smells and oddly nostalgic. <br />
We made some veggie rolls with omelet, cucumber, carrot and avocado. <br />
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We also had some hot smoked salmon and black sesame. Lil'G was in charge of filling the rolls and I would roll them up. <br />
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We absolutely pigged out! </div>
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Such a super fun day! xo</div>Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8521544838920502873.post-74347755420733112622012-02-13T12:29:00.000-08:002012-02-13T12:29:14.802-08:00News....I told you the other day that I had some news to share. People who I know in real life already know this. Our family will be getting a little bigger in June. We are expecting a baby around the middle of the month! This is why I have been very absent from this space. I am feeling really good right now. I have to take it a little easy because if I don't my back really bothers me. My job keeps me on my feet for long hours so when I have days off they are spent quietly, usually knitting or reading. The first few months were very rough with constant nausea and exhaustion. <br />
I have begun digging out all the baby things I kept from Lil'G and seeing what may be needed. We are not going to find out if we are having a boy or a girl. The surprise is half the fun! We are also planning a home birth so I have been talking to lots of my friends who have had successful home births and getting to know my midwives. They are so awesome! I feel like I am in very good hands with these three ladies!<br />
As I mentioned, I have been doing some knitting. I have just started on the wee knitting. A bunch of wool is on order (Thanks, Hazel!) and a bunch of projects are in the works. I thought that in the months to come I would share the things I am making, both for the baby and me. <br />
We are all so very excited around here! My five year old is over the moon that she is going to be a big sister. <br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Knock knock!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span> </div>
She likes to kiss my belly and talk to the baby. It makes my heart just swell with joy. <br />
Hope you are all enjoying the lovely weather!<br />
xoMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8521544838920502873.post-79972767070426219102012-02-10T18:09:00.000-08:002012-02-10T18:09:15.656-08:00Hi there!Oh my...I have been gone for far too long! Life has been a gong show.<br />
Today I wanted to share a little Valentine's Day craft with you. I just made the cutest little Valentine for my daughter. It took me maybe a half an hour. The results are absolutely adorable!<br />
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It is a little knitted heart (pattern <i><a href="http://nzwools.co.uk/index.php?main_page=page&id=14&chapter=1" style="color: blue;">here</a></i>) that I glued onto a piece of drawing paper. The knitting needles are just toothpicks. Simplest thing ever, providing you know how to knit. <br />
This is going to be a huge hit. I think I will even make one for the Mister. <br />
I have a bit of news to share with you all so stay tuned....<br />
xoMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8521544838920502873.post-1452740182725657972011-12-24T13:42:00.000-08:002011-12-24T13:42:19.035-08:00Happy Holidays!<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BkA2et_8gLU/TvZFFhXq5zI/AAAAAAAAA2E/uhAk-3AnZq0/s1600/IMG_6293.JPG" style="clear: left; color: #cc0000; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BkA2et_8gLU/TvZFFhXq5zI/AAAAAAAAA2E/uhAk-3AnZq0/s400/IMG_6293.JPG" width="300" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o9hAD3Ehwxk/TvZE1c-IjiI/AAAAAAAAA18/QZXUQz-j4sY/s1600/IMG_6303.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o9hAD3Ehwxk/TvZE1c-IjiI/AAAAAAAAA18/QZXUQz-j4sY/s400/IMG_6303.JPG" width="300" /></a><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="color: black;">I would like to wish you all a </span>happy holiday<span style="color: black;"> and hope you get to spend it with the people you love!</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">xo</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">P.S. </span></span>Here is my last Christmas treat <a href="http://orangette.blogspot.com/2008/12/look-at-that.html"><span style="color: #cc0000;">recipe</span></a>. It was so simple and so delicious!<br />
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<br />Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8521544838920502873.post-45493379092804052972011-12-19T19:33:00.000-08:002011-12-19T19:35:51.707-08:00Holiday Treats - Day 3Let me just start this post out by saying I have never been a fan of fruitcake. I actually find it kind of gross. And then I found this recipe. I read through it sceptically and almost didn't try it. But then I thought, "Something with that much booze in it couldn't possibly be that bad...." So I made it. And it was delicious.<br />
The recipe is from an Everyday Food magazine (thank you, Martha!). A very simple recipe to make. You don't like fruitcake? Give it a go, you might change your mind. <br />
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<i><b>Fruitcake Bars</b></i><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Recipe from Martha Stewart's Everyday Food magazine</span></b></i><br />
<i><b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Soundtrack - Hank Williams</span></b></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 c. brandy</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">5 c. dried fruit, coarsely chopped (I used apricots, cranberries, dates, golden raisins and pineapple)</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">2 c. all purpose flour</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 c. butter, room temperature</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">2 c. brown sugar</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">3 eggs</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">1 tsp. vanilla</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Preheat oven to 350F and grease a 13x9 pan. Line with parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang on two sides. Grease the parchment and set aside. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> *One year I neglected to do this. I was sorry I didn't. Even though I had greased the pan very well, I still couldn't get the bars out of the pan. Don't skip this step. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">In a medium saucepan, heat the brandy until simmering. Remove from heat and stir in fruit; cool to room temp. Stir 1 c. of flour into the brandied fruit mixture; set aside. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in vanilla. Add remaining flour and mix until just combined. Fold in fruit mixture; transfer batter to prepared pan and smooth top. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Bake for 45-50min. or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in pan for 1 hour. Using paper overhang, lift out of pan; transfer to a wire rack to cool completely (still on paper). Invert fruitcake, peel off paper and with a serrated knife cut into 24 pieces. Dust with icing sugar if desired. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkP0uNKk0rdubp8Z8Z3C1fJ18gC9McumaX8QWyFl4Igy96sdhrqavf8hKTDYlb8cOuKJjlja2UuI6DcJcXEQDn3Q6Mc1MKaReA976f4cCQ3AHBmq3_T6EtsSKRlvxkH76KKvTeOmg6-rrW/s1600/IMG_6394.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkP0uNKk0rdubp8Z8Z3C1fJ18gC9McumaX8QWyFl4Igy96sdhrqavf8hKTDYlb8cOuKJjlja2UuI6DcJcXEQDn3Q6Mc1MKaReA976f4cCQ3AHBmq3_T6EtsSKRlvxkH76KKvTeOmg6-rrW/s320/IMG_6394.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<i><b><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span> </span> </b></i>Hope you enjoy these! xoMelaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8521544838920502873.post-63513790289863000152011-12-18T15:32:00.000-08:002011-12-18T15:32:57.403-08:00Holiday Baking - Day 2<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPsGH52f9LRCOcUE_e7x8Kc4N2wCmcFxPSMSmMLkEhyphenhypheneUSBtNUNCsuSc3eQ6WAPBausAYBc27nfPGBrO4R7JXZOFuXicOAPj2SA-0Qqycq4QkE6eSk2phZjZ16Hwbk2oe-kJuB_8rzs-9g/s1600/IMG_6375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>Today I am sharing a recipe that I found via a fabulous food blog, <a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/2011/12/nutmeg-maple-butter-cookies/">Smitten Kitchen</a>. These cookies are absolute heaven! I normally do not bake sugar type cookies because I find them so bland. These are anything but bland with their maple-y buttery lusciousness. The dough rolls out beautifully and is so very tender. This recipe makes <i>a lot</i> of cookies. I didn't count but let's just leave it at dozens. <br />
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<i>N<b>utmeg Maple Butter Cookies</b></i><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Adapted, just a smidge, from the late great <a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Maple-Leaf-Butter-Cookies-10106">Gourmet Magazine</a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>Soundtrack - Bonobo</i></span><br />
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1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature<br />
1 cup granulated sugar<br />
1/2 cup maple syrup (Grade B is ideal here, but the original
recipe suggested that Grade A with a few drops of maple extract would
also work)<br />
1 large egg yolk<br />
3 cups all-purpose flour<br />
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg or 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (because it packs more tightly)<br />
1 1/4 teaspoon flaky salt or 1 teaspoon table salt<br />
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Using an electric mixer, beat butter and sugar together until light
and fluffy. With mixer running, add yolk and slowly drizzle in maple
syrup. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, nutmeg and salt. Add to
butter mixture and mix until just combined. The dough will be in loose
clumps. Gather them together into a tight packet with a large piece of
plastic wrap and chill dough for at least two hours (and up to four
days) until firm.<br />
Preheat oven to 350 F degrees and line a few baking sheets with
parchment paper. I like to roll out a quarter to half the dough at a
time, leaving the rest in the fridge. On a floured counter, roll dough
to 1/8-inch thickness and cut into desired shapes.<br />
Arrange cookies on baking sheets and bake for 8 to 11 minutes each,
or until lightly golden at the edges. Transfer to racks to cool.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPsGH52f9LRCOcUE_e7x8Kc4N2wCmcFxPSMSmMLkEhyphenhypheneUSBtNUNCsuSc3eQ6WAPBausAYBc27nfPGBrO4R7JXZOFuXicOAPj2SA-0Qqycq4QkE6eSk2phZjZ16Hwbk2oe-kJuB_8rzs-9g/s1600/IMG_6375.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPsGH52f9LRCOcUE_e7x8Kc4N2wCmcFxPSMSmMLkEhyphenhypheneUSBtNUNCsuSc3eQ6WAPBausAYBc27nfPGBrO4R7JXZOFuXicOAPj2SA-0Qqycq4QkE6eSk2phZjZ16Hwbk2oe-kJuB_8rzs-9g/s320/IMG_6375.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-gTDIVfZjd0jvBhpHWQagIrXBpq87BcXJeM1NUvDO8naG7dDJjMtvn8r1w0iz43438VJwIuBl2K3srWKH5iG1T6UxeNGPVfAIgcMPcBbZ4HK7ULzQ5tB_xmusA-EUoNVm0kc4LRMbieXV/s1600/IMG_6376.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-gTDIVfZjd0jvBhpHWQagIrXBpq87BcXJeM1NUvDO8naG7dDJjMtvn8r1w0iz43438VJwIuBl2K3srWKH5iG1T6UxeNGPVfAIgcMPcBbZ4HK7ULzQ5tB_xmusA-EUoNVm0kc4LRMbieXV/s320/IMG_6376.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
* I used No.1 maple syrup (Grade A) because that's what I had and did not add any maple flavouring. I can definitely tell there is maple syrup in these. Melaniehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11148542475270723885noreply@blogger.com0