my week

This week was a busy one. I have still been spending nearly all my extra time building Heartbeat Artistry's online presence. But, to get out of the house, the girls and I met up with a few friends and saw the new Studio Ghibli film, The Secret World of Arrietty, which is based on one of our favorite children's books, the 1953 novel The Borrowers by Mary Norton.

The telltale imagination of a Studio Ghibli film was perfectly captured in this story, which follows the life of the tiny people who live hidden from "human beans" beneath the floorboards of a quiet country house. The daughter, Arrietty, is seen by one of the "beans," which leads to an exciting and suspenseful adventure. The movie was just as delightful and fantastical as the book.

Yesterday, I was quite under the weather. I took a nice long nap in the morning, but it did not help that I awoke to the shock of finding the kid's play room a complete wreck. A disaster. Debris everywhere. I could barely even get the door open. In fact, it was so far gone, that I had to take a picture. You likely would not have believed me otherwise.

I recruited Esme to help me tidy. She even boxed up a handful toys to pass along to someone else. We will be moving rooms around soon so that we can paint and repurpose a room or two. I will try to post before and after photos of the remodel for your viewing pleasure. The rest of the morning was spent on a few chores around the house to catch up on things--laundry, dishes, and straightening up my desk. As for the afternoon, I spent most of the day parked on the couch to revive my good health. Two of my kitties cuddled with me to help move my recovery along, first fluffy Butler, then sweet Midnight.

My knitting also kept me company today. I worked on a hat for my dear cousin's new baby to wear after her birth. The first one I made turned out to be too large for a newborn, so I adjusted the pattern very slightly. I will post photos as soon as the hat is gifted.

I have a handful of goals for the next few days. First of all, this cold needs to go. Next, I need to clear the toy room of furniture and toys and prepare to paint the walls. Finally, I need to figure out another knitting project to keep me going in the evenings during story time.

But in the meantime? I have my happy girls to read to me and my dear husband to brew hot tea for me to sip as I get better.

heartbeat artistry

About a year ago, my husband began stepping away from the corporate world and integrating himself into an artist lifestyle. He now spends many of his days in his studio or office, creating more and more artwork. As he has began building up quite an inventory these last few months, I have been spending most of my spare time developing an online presence for his artwork.

David's artistic experience goes back quite a few years. In 2001, David established his business, Heartbeat Artistry, primarily focusing on drum making and professional drumming. Between 2001 and 2008, David's drums were featured in our shop at the Bristol Renaissance Fair in Kenosha, WI. Other businesses began carrying his drums, as well, including WardBrodt Music in Madison, WI, Lakeshore Music Conservatory in Racine, WI, Schmitt Music in Racine, WI, Astor Street Dance Studio in Milwaukee, WI, Absolute Music in Fairborne, OH, Sheepish in Racine, WI, and Parana Gaming and Mega Bites in Racine, WI.

David's drums are incredibly unique. With a ceramic body and fixed tuning, the drums have a full, rich, resonant bass tone, called the "doum," and a crisp, clear, solid high tone, called the "tek." The colors are vibrant and fresh, not only the body of the drum, but also often in the tie-dyed heads. 

Why ceramic? Ceramic has a clarity and distinction that tends to be absorbed in wooden drums and a depth that is lacking in metal drums. The sheer enormity of the sound of a ceramic drum is quite unlike anything else you will find. Over the last decade, David has further developed and refined his drum-making techniques to maximize the natural properties of ceramic and skins, and perfected the art of selecting the exact perfect skin for each drum.

David's drums are based on traditional hand-drums from the Mediterranean, North African, Eastern Europe and the Middle East. His best-selling styles are based on the goblet-shaped doumbek, the larger djembe, and the Persian zarb.

Having taken piano lessons starting at three years old, and playing trumpet once he turned seven, David has always had an ear for music. He went on to study Jazz Theory, taught instrumental music, and performed trumpet and percussion at events across the country. Once David got into drum making, other artistic mediums just began rolling. David has expanded his artistic repertoire to include sculpture, watercolor and ink, and woodworking. Much of his artwork is featured in studios, galleries, homes, and restaurants around the country.

In 2011, combining his love of wood-turning with his long-time hobby of whip-cracking, David took up whip making. As they are made of nylon paracord, David's whips can be cracked in adverse weather conditions without being damaged. His preferred style of whip to work with is based on the Florida Cow Whip because of the unique inserted thong allows for a variety of handle sizes and styles. David hand-turns his handles on a lathe in a variety of exotic woods.

All of David's artwork is handmade, from start to finish, at our indoor-outdoor home studio. While much of his works are sold online in Heartbeat Artistry's Etsy store and through our ebay store, David often attends events across the country, whether it be as a guest instructor, a performer, or a vendor. As for the business end of things... well, that is where I step in. As I said before, much of my spare time lately has been dedicated to developing an online presence for Heartbeat Artistry. Weekly blog updates, ebay auctions, and Etsy listings are a few tasks I have taken on. It makes me feel like I can be a part of my husband's work when I advertise it for him. And hopefully it shows him that I support him and his creativity.

Running a family business is difficult and challenging, but it also gives us so much. The children love going to events and helping out in the studio. They are more than happy to dive right in to a bucket of clay, get covered in paint and glaze, and pick out colors for the next whip. They are proud of the work they do and boast about the projects they had a hand in. Running a family business has helped to bring us closer together.

Visit Heartbeat Artistry at our blog:  http://heartbeatartistry.blogspot.com

Visit our Etsy shop:  http://www.etsy.com/shop/HeartbeatArtistry

Visit our ebay store:  http://myworld.ebay.com/heartbeatartistry/

In addition, we are offering readers free shipping on all orders in our Etsy shop placed by February 28th. Use code SHIPME at checkout.

unplugged... and plugging into the family

This month, I have been focusing much of my time on family life. We have done everything together, from visiting the amusement park, the beach, to traveling to Wisconsin to enjoy the company of family there, thrifting and stopping in local restaurants and specialty shops, from re-purposing much of our living space to re-purposing our time to focus more on things that matter most to us.

I have had a good solid 10 days off work, during which we took a four-day vacation, reorganized (and scrubbed down) the kitchen to make it an eat-in space, re-purposed the dining room to hold all of our paints and family art and craft supplies, and built movable displays for David's artwork. I am tired from all the hard work and long days, but encouraged by the progress we have made and the time we have spent together.

There are several things that I really wanted to get done during my time off that will have to wait, but I am happy with how everything has turned out so far. The house is beautiful and comfortable, and is in good shape for moving our lives back indoors as summer comes to a close.

before and after

a hell of a shawl

My father was born and raised in Germany, and his side of the family still lives over there. We make a trip or two every year or so to visit. This Easter, my parents are making a visit. I always like to make something special for my Oma (grandmother) and she has really gotten used to getting knitting from me. Well, two weeks before they left for their vacation, my Dad called Oma and asked her what she wanted them to bring for her. She said that she wanted me to knit a blue and white shawl for her.

When he told me, I was hesitant--I was not sure I would have time to complete such a major project in two weeks. But I figured I couldn’t give up without a fight! I went to the yarn shop and picked up three skeins of my favorite yarn, Malabrigo Merino Worsted, in a lovely blueish color. I couldn’t get my hands on any white (my Oma is very particular about her whites--anything even remotely off-white and she is convinced it is “dirty”--LOL), so I figured I would stick with solid blue. The following is a photo of the yarn, which is Jewel Blue:

I wanted to do lace, but since I would be hurrying to complete the project on time, I did not want anything too complex. The pattern that I settled on, Julianne Nyberg's Little Black Stole, is lovely and I am very pleased with it.

For this particular shawl, I cast on a total of 90 stitches to make the final project a bit wider then what the pattern called for--more substantial. I went with Malabrigo so that my grandmother would stay warm and cozy! After knitting approxamitely three feet, I blocked and stretched, blocked and stretched, until the shawl was over five feet long. I added a good eight inches of fringe on every other ridge.
 

This is project 43/52.

my 52 project challenge

With the turn of the New Year, I decided I needed some official inspiration for finishing craft and knitting projects. Browsing through posts in the arts and crafts forum on Mothering, I discovered this thread, 52 Project Challenge and I immediately fell in love! Essentially, the idea is to complete a total of 52 art and craft projects in the year 2010. In 2009, I got a huge number of projects done, including a ton of hand-made gifts. I hope this year will be even more fruitful!

To keep track of my goals, the projects I begin, and my to-do list, I will post pretty often here. I will also rely heavily on my Ravelry queue as well as my projects list. I must say that Ravelry is the most wonderful thing EVER! I also found a fantastic site: Swap-bot, an online site that organizes group swaps and a community of creative individuals. I hope to participate in at least one swap a month, some just for fun, and some for unique gifts, especially as the holidays approach.

My immediate to-do list includes:

• Hand-dying wool yarn
• Valentines for Evelyn to give away at school and for close friends
• Knit headbands for the girls for Valentine's Day
  
• Esme's birthday gift--a knit kitty or Totoro
• Stenciled t-shirts
• Knit DS case for a friend
  

So here is how I stand as of this moment: 47/52, which means I have completed a total of five projects already this year. So far, all of my finished projects are knitted.

Project 52/52

My first project of the new year is a knit shrug. I used a few different patterns as a basis for this project, but I changed various aspects here and there for my own purposes and to accommodate the yarn I used, which was a miscellaneous wool blend that my Oma sent me for Christmas a few years back. I gave it to my friend as a belated Christmas-early birthday gift, and she loved it!

Project 51/52

I knit made a lovely little neck warmer for David, complete with button. This pattern took only an hour or two to finish. I used the pattern Mini-Scarf with Button by Melissa Rotert posted on Craftster.

Project 50/52

Another project I made was a little striped lace scarf which I knit long-ways with a fluffy acrylic yarn for my cousin's daughter's 8th birthday. Unfortunately, I failed to get a picture (Esme puked all over me before they opened gifts at the party, so we cut out early), but it was a fast-knit, fun project. David made two beaded bookmarks for her and we also included a Bare Book and markers. She apparently loved everything.

Project 49/52

I made a knit strawberry from Pezdiv's pattern for the girls. This project took only a little less than two hours to finish! I plan to eventually do more of these before Valentine's Day as fun little gifts. They will make perfect editions to our little wooden play-food set!

Project 48/52

The project I finished most recently is a headband/ear-warmer for myself. I decided I needed to make something for me, and since I am tired of stuffing my hair in hats, an ear-warmer would be perfect. I altered Kathryn Schoendorf's pattern Calorimetry from Knitty to work the yarn in the appropriate gague. I am in love with this Noro-like yarn! It's soft and pretty and I have quite a bit left over. Maybe I can knit a complimentary scarf.

Upcoming projects

Right now, I am in the middle of three knitting projects, including that Log-Cabin blanket for Evelyn (which I have been in the middle of for four months now), a felted mini-backpack for myself, and a baby hat for our friends, who are expecting their first child in about three weeks.

I am really enjoying this personal challenge! Sometimes I need some ground rules and guidelines to keep me going. I also vow to keep track of my projects in 2010 and hand-make most gifts! Let me know what projects you complete this year--I am always up for swapping, if you are interested!

secret pal questionnaire

What is/are your favorite yarn/s to knit with?

I absolutely love to knit with soft wools and natural fibers, marino, bamboo, alpaca, angora, silk... In my younger days, I liked blends a lot, and I still enjoy the occasional blend--they do have their place, after all. I do not particularly care for strictly synthetic fibers, though.


What do you use to store your needles/hooks in?
I store my straight needles in a cloth paintbrush roll. Here is a picture:

I store my circular needles in a bag especially designed for circular needles:

How long have you been knitting and how did you learn? Would you consider your skill level to be beginner, intermediate or advanced?

I started knitting in late summer/early fall 2004. Inspired by Molly Weasley's knit creations in the Harry Potter books, I enrolled in a beginner knitting class at a local craft store. In that class, I learned cast on, the knit stitch, bind off, and how to read a yarn label; the project was a simple garter knit scarf. I have come a long way since then--and besides that beginner class, I consider myself basically self-taught, using various books and online tutorials. I know enough about patterns and techniques that I would consider myself at an intermediate skill level. I still enjoy simple projects, though, because my youngest daughter has pulled my knitting of the needles on multiple occasions. Once my children are grown, I figure I will have plenty of time to spend on advanced techniques and more complex projects.

Do you have an Amazon or other online wish list?
I have an Etsy favorites list.
And an extremely outdated Amazon wish list.

What’s your favorite scent?
Vanilla, lavender, peppermint

Do you have a sweet tooth? Favorite candy?
I have a very tempted sweet tooth. I love dark chocolate. 

What other crafts or Do-It-Yourself things do you like to do? Do you spin?
I have a running list of crafts that I have done and that I want to do. On a regular basis, I do beading, scrapbooking, decoupage, collage, ceramics, painting, re-purposing-crafts, soap-making, and altered art. I like yarn dying and yarn painting, as well as tie-dye. I would love to learn needle-felting and spinning, above all else. And even though I love sewing, my sewing machine and I have severe tension problems, so I have abandoned all hopes of ever mastering that art form. I really like knitting best of all because of it's portability and the meditative nature of the craft.

What kind of music do you like? Can your computer/stereo play MP3s? (if your buddy wants to make you a CD)
While I am not up on all the trends of music these days, I like a variety of music in general. I am always open to listening to new things. My favorite musicians and groups are: The Bird and the Bee, Israel Kamakawiwo'ole, Craig of Farrington, Rush, Miles Davis, Randy Newman, The Minstrels of Mayhem, Elton John, Harry Connick Jr, Sidecar Steph & the 7-10 Split, Aerosmith, Bob Marley, Ella Fitzgerald, Jake Shimabukuro, Erik Satie, Supertramp, Queen, Huey Lewis and the News, The Beach Boys, Django Reinhardt. 

What’s your favorite color(s)? Any colors you just can’t stand?
My favorite colors really depend on my mood, and they change frequently. Much of the time, I enjoy particular color combination more than single colors themselves. I love natural, earthy colors, greens, oranges, reds. I also love cornflower blue. There is no color I cannot stand as every color has its place and can look good in the right context.

What is your family situation? Do you have any pets?
I am married and we have two daughters, three dogs, a snake, and a hermit crab.

Do you wear scarves, hats, mittens or ponchos?
I live for scarves! I would wear hats a lot more often if I ever made one for myself. I have a couple pairs of mittens that I made for myself, and as an avid babywearer, I love ponchos!

What is/are your favorite item/s to knit?
I never tire of knitting scarves. There are so many techniques and colors and styles and patterns that can make scarves absolutely unique and beautiful. Scarves also make wonderful, personal, welcomed gifts. I also love knitting mittens and bags.

What are you knitting right now?
Right now, I am knitting a log cabin blanket for Evelyn, a mini-backpack that will eventually be felted for myself, and finishing a tiny handbag to list on Etsy. Next up is a baby hat for an expecting friend and a headband and scarf set.

Do you like to receive handmade gifts?
I LOVE handmade gifts! Giving them, receiving them! Handmade items are always #1 on any of my wish lists! 

Do you prefer straight or circular needles? Bamboo, aluminum, plastic?
Depending on the project, I usually go with straight needles, but circulars are definitely growing on me! My first choice is bamboo, but aluminum is ok, too. 

Do you own a yarn winder and/or swift?
No, though I would love it if I did. 

How old is your oldest UFO?
Five years. It is embarrassing. I can never do the finishing on a project--I leave most of that to my hubby.

What is your favorite holiday? What winter holiday do you observe?
We celebrate the seasons, though we celebrate winter on Christmas Day instead of the Solstice.  My favorite holiday….I really like Thanksgiving, New Year's Day, and my birthday.  

Is there anything that you collect?
Besides yarn, you mean? I collect pressed pennies and beads. I figure they are small and easy to store. 

Any books, yarns, needles or patterns out there you are dying to get your hands on? What knitting magazine subscriptions do you have?
I am dying to get my hands on Robin Hansen's book Favorite Mittens. I love how you can browse finished projects from books, magazines, and individual designers; the site supplies all the information you need to find or buy the pattern. There are a ton of projects I have found on Ravelry that I want to make that I need to eventually round up. I also cannot wait to get my hands on some Malabrigo and Mama Blue yarn. I do not subscribe to any knitting magazines, but I do pick them up from work when they come in. 

Are there any new techniques you’d like to learn?
I would like to get more experience in cable knitting, but that's really it. The mini backpack I am knitting uses the domino technique, which I have never done before.

Are you a sock knitter? What are your foot measurements?
Ugh, not at the moment. I love knitting and I love socks, but I cannot say I love knitting socks. Maybe once my children are older and do not need as much hands on attention, I will be able to tackle more sock projects!

When is your birthday?
April 21 

Are you on Ravelry? If so, what’s your ID?
I am addicted to Ravelry. I am evermore82 there.

my reading list 2009, part ii

This is a continuation of my reading list for this year. Don't forget to read My Reading List 2009, Part I!

Finished reading:

The Twilight Saga by Stephanie Meyer, including New Moon, Eclipse, and Breaking Dawn.
I enjoyed the series emensely, especially the character of Jacob Black. It was a fun read, relatively fluffy. However, I find myself embarrassed when customers are gung-ho about reading it and ask for it at work. I sooo want to take them by the shoulders and shake them and yell, "Make sure you think about the negative themes of codependency, abuse, and control that are the predominent themes in these books! They are absolutely glamorized by the author! Talk to your daughters! Read the series with them! Please!" So, yeah, if a customer asks what I think, I tell them. Uh-huh.

Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (reread) by Jo Rowling AND
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (reread) by Jo Rowling AND
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (reread) by Jo Rowling
In order to prepare for the release of the movie, I decided it would be a good idea to refresh my memory by rereading several books in the series. They are just as enjoyable as they were the first time around and Jim Dale is a wonderful reader!

Fool by Christopher Moore
Remember all the Shakespeare you read in high school and college? Well, it will all come to good use as you read Fool, the vulgar and darkly humorous version of King Lear. Fool is one of the most outrageous books I have ever read. Think Rosenkrantz and Gildestern are Dead, only full of bawdy sex jokes and laugh out loud comedy. Not my favorite Moore novel, but an enjoyable releif, nonetheless. 

Mason-Dixon Knitting by Kay Gardiner and Ann Meador
The patterns in this book are straight forward but still somewhat challenging. I love knitting with natural fibers, so the the patterns in this book fit right in--cotton, cotton, cotton! It is easy to adapt many of the patterns to your own personal style and budget. Not only do the patterns rock, but the stories and asides are entertaining, heartfelt, and funny and the photography is colorful and inspirational!

The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory, abridged (oops!)
I have been waiting for ages for this to come around on audio--and when it finally did, I was already one entire disk in when I realized that it was the abridged version. I was so hooked on the story by then that I did not want to stop, so, in less than three days, I got the gist of the novel. I would love to listen to the entire book one of these days, or another one of her books.

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
This short novel was an inspirational fable and coming to age story of a young shepherd who decides to sell his flock in order to find his personal legend. The story is rich in spiritual knowledge; I see a lot of The Secret in the development of the main character on his journey (think Rhonda Byrnes, Oprah book club pick). Read by Jeremy Irons, the story telling was unbelievable!

Mother Plays with Dolls...And Finds an Important Key to Unlocking Creativity by Elinor Peace Bailey
Bailey's profound writing and beautiful poetry hits a particular inspirational note, helping many creative doll makers realize the natural therapy of creating, not only dolls, but through the unique gifts we, as women, can discover within ourselves. A fantastic book for those who need to rediscover their inner artist!

The Alchemist: The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel by Michael Scott AND
The Magician: The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel by Michael Scott
This six book series is a fantastic find! Michael Scott takes an original story and flies with it, taking history and twisting it with mythology into a fast-paced, action-packed, suspenseful modern-day fantasy. The characters are lovable and legendary at the same time. The cliffhangers are atrociously suspenseful, and as only the first three books have been released--the fourth book, The Necromancer, is due out in May 2010--I have temporarily put the series on hold. David let slip that the third book, The Sorceress, has a cliffhanger far worse than The Empire Strikes Back and any of the Harry Potters. I just cannot take that kind of torture.

Chronicles of Ancient Darkness: Wolf Brother by Michelle Paver and Geoff Taylor
Read by Ian McKellen, this is one of the most wonderful storytelling experiences I have ever had. Set over 6000 years ago, the story is undeniably original. My favorite parts revolve around Wolf's point of view, but the descriptions are appropriately rich (I say appropriate as the book is written for those in the 12-14 age group). Torak's adventure is epic in nature, and I fell in love with it not only because Ian McKellen reads it, but because it is an extraordinary coming-of-age story in its own right.

Up Next:

The Sorceress: The Secrets of the Immortal Nicholas Flamel by Michael Scott

Hot, Flat, and Crowded: Why We Need a Green Revolution--and How It Can Renew America by Thomas Friedman

Lamb by Christopher Moore

Hoot and Scat by Carl Hiassen

Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies by Jared Diamond

my reading list 2009

Every year, I write out which books I have read, am reading, and which ones I want to read. Here's this year's list so far:

Finished reading:

The Stupidest Angel: A Heartwarming Tale of Christmas Terror by Christopher Moore I started off the New Year with a post-Winter Solstice celebration of the Christmas holiday with this energized horror-spoof satire. With familiar characters from his other novels, this is a fast, hilarious, sometimes vulgar, read that will make you question who the hero of the novel really is.

Skinny Dip by Carl Hiassen

Gripping from page one, Skinny Dip is a funny, fast-paced, exciting environmental message on wheels, full of colorful characters who you completely love or just plain love-to-hate. Perfect summer reading, complete with a reminder of the importance of Everglade conservation.

Birth: The Surprising History of How We Are Born by Tina Cassidy Factual, well researched, and, yes, extremely surprising, Birth takes us on an engaging tour of the graphic, and often horrific, history of the birth industry, primarily in America, with a few brief multi-cultural exceptions. As I am partial to the natural birth experience, I appreciate the slant Cassidy has toward normal, physiological birth and its place (and re-emergence!) in our society.

A Dirty Job by Christopher Moore A madly imaginative, often hilarious world of Death that somehow proves to be poignant at the same time. Another fun, fast read by Christopher Moore, that touches the human spirit. I could not stop listening to this book! I love the Hellhounds!

Saving Fish from Drowning by Amy Tan My first experience with Amy Tan's writing, I was pleasantly surprised to find that it was not nearly as dark as I was expecting. I enjoyed the characterization, their innocence--or perhaps naiveté is a better suited description--their stereotypes as "ugly" Americans, the dark humor. A very engaging read, and I look forward to The Joy Luck Club and The Bonesetters Daughter.

Nature Girl by Carl Hiassen

A fast, enjoyable suspense with a perfectly neurotic heroine--with another welcome side order of Everglades preservation.

From the Hips: A Comprehensive, Open-Minded, Uncensored, Totally Honest Guide to Pregnancy, Birth, and Becoming a Parent by Rebecca Odes and Ceridwen Morris

A lovely, comprehensive, unbiased look at pregnancy and birth in a trendy package. I love the light tone of this legitimately honest guide, which provides the basis for INFORMED CONSENT (which is often missing in pregnancy guides), especially by discussing the facts without a preachy tone. Includes a wonderful focus on birth options--hospital, birth center, homebirth; midwife vs. OB. I highly recommend this book for mothers-to-be!

Dreams from My Father by Barack Obama I listened to the Grammy Award Winning recording of Dreams from My Father, read by Barack Obama himself, and I was absolutely blown away by the insightful, often painfully honest appraisal of the beginning of his life. A memoir, written shortly after graduating law school, Obama's perspective is unique as a bi-racial man growing up in both white and black America.

It is astounding that, unlike most memoirs which are written after great accomplishments, the voice of this story is at the beginning of what may be greatness, not the end, and is yet so compelling and intuitive.

Don't Look Down by Jennifer Crusie and Bob Mayer In my younger days, Crusie was one of my favorite Chick-Lit authors, but I fell away, until I saw this collaboration of Crusie and Mayer. I enjoyed this well-written, non-formulaic, funny blend of genres and voices, as well as the unpredictable ending and the Wonder Woman nuances.

The Frugal Gardener: How to Have More Garden for Less Money by Catriona Tudor Erler Not only is The Frugal Gardener a practical resource for gardening on a budget, it is a great introduction to gardening for the novice, and a fantastic resource for the basics of organic gardening. I really enjoyed the chapter organization and layout of the book--it made for a good read (rather than being a heavy reference book). Even if you are not simply looking for ways to garden on a budget, The Frugal Gardener offers many great gardening tips.

Airman by Eoin Colfer I LOVE the originality and complexity of Eoin Colfer's novels, and Airman does not disappoint. The coming of age story of Conor Broekhart, a young scientist who has a passion to be the first man to fly, is full of adventure, romance, and suspense. I was hooked with the first chapter and could not stop listening! In contrast with Colfer's Artemis Fowl series, Airman delves into more complex themes with violent overtones that make it better suited for a more mature young adult reader--though no doubt adults will fall into this adventure novel just as easily! No kidding, it reminds me quite a bit of William Goldman's The Princess Bride. Ricochet by Sandra Brown My first Sandra Brown, I enjoyed this romantic suspense while I was listening to it, though I was thoroughly disappointed when I realized I had picked up the abridged version... Interesting, fast-paced, what I call "Travel Reading" for it's light nature. Not at all memorable; as I write this, I find myself rereading the synopsis to remember the characters and what the story was about! It's All Too Much: An Easy Plan for Living a Richer Life with Less Stuff by Peter Walsch A clean, honest, blunt, step-by-step guide to de-cluttering that focuses on how Americans are bombarded by advertising and marketing, and how we, as a society, have lost focus on what it means to live a happy life--how we do not need "stuff" to live full, genuine lives. The Art of Mindful Living by Tich Nhat Hanh I enjoy Tich Nhat Hanh's works, especially this one, as he explains the basics of Zen Buddhism and how to really apply it to a Western lifestyle. While this is not a guided meditation, the audio does however explain the basis of meditation and provides the reader with the tools to apply it to one's own life. I love how, throughout the audio, there is a simple reminder of the present moment with the single toll of a bell, a constant reminder of the importance of being fully aware of the present moment. The approach is extremely powerful and affective. Twilight by Stephanie Meyer After months of being the #1 bestselling series at work, and after seeing the movie, I decided it was time to pick up this young adult series. I enjoyed the first book, though it seemed to drag on-- like if you put all four novels together (and I have yet to read any of the sequals), they may equal one complete plot, but, for instance, that one plot and all of it's development was too lengthy for one book, so the publisher had Meyer lengthen it out to better fit multiple books. Perhaps they will pick up. Twilight is a classic Shakespearen love story transformed for the modern young paranormal romance reader, though it may be appealing to a male audience, as well. There is an important focus on familial connections in the first book. I will wait to add more after I finish subsequent books. Now reading: New Moon by Stephanie Meyer The line-up: Eclipse and Breaking Dawn by Stephanie Meyer--maybe The Host by Stephanie Meyer (David got it from the library for me) Hot, Flat, and Crowded: Why We Need a Green Revolution--and How It Can Renew America by Thomas Friedman A Member of the Family: Cesar Millan's Guide to a Lifetime of Fulfillment with Your Dog by Cesar Millan and Melissa Jo Peltier Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies by Jared Diamond Something written by Bill Bryson Audacity of Hope by Barack Obama Fool by Christopher Moore Hoot by Carl Hiassen

stockpiling for catastrophe

I was sorting through some papers on my desk, and I flipped to a list of the Top 100 Items to Disappear First During a National Emergency. I don't remember where I found the list, but it is circulating.

Top 100 Items to Disappear First During a National Emergency
1. Generators (Good ones cost dearly. Gas storage, risky. Noisy...target of thieves; maintenance etc.)
2. Water Filters/Purifiers
3. Portable Toilets
4. Seasoned Firewood. Wood takes about 6 - 12 months to become dried, for home uses.
5. Lamp Oil, Wicks, Lamps (First Choice: Buy CLEAR oil. If scarce, stockpile ANY!)
6. Coleman Fuel. Impossible to stockpile too much.
7. Guns, Ammunition, Pepper Spray, Knives, Clubs, Bats & Slingshots.
8. Hand-can openers, & hand egg beaters, whisks.
9. Honey/Syrups/white, brown sugar
10. Rice - Beans - Wheat
11. Vegetable Oil (for cooking) Without it food burns/must be boiled etc.,)
12. Charcoal, Lighter Fluid (Will become scarce suddenly)
13. Water Containers (Urgent Item to obtain.) Any size. Small: HARD CLEAR PLASTIC ONLY - note - food grade if for drinking.
16. Propane Cylinders (Urgent: Definite shortages will occur.)
17. Survival Guide Book.
18. Mantles: Aladdin, Coleman, etc. (Without this item, longer-term lighting is difficult.)
19. Baby Supplies: Diapers/formula. ointments/aspirin, etc.
20. Washboards, Mop Bucket w/wringer (for Laundry)
21. Cookstoves (Propane, Coleman & Kerosene)
22. Vitamins
23. Propane Cylinder Handle-Holder (Urgent: Small canister use is dangerous without this item)
24. Feminine Hygiene/Haircare/Skin products.
25. Thermal underwear (Tops & Bottoms)
26. Bow saws, axes and hatchets, Wedges (also, honing oil)
27. Aluminum Foil Reg. & Heavy Duty (Great Cooking and Barter Item)
28. Gasoline Containers (Plastic & Metal)
29. Garbage Bags (Impossible To Have Too Many).
30. Toilet Paper, Kleenex, Paper Towels
31. Milk - Powdered & Condensed (Shake Liquid every 3 to 4 months)
32. Garden Seeds (Non-Hybrid) (A MUST)
33. Clothes pins/line/hangers (A MUST)
34. Coleman's Pump Repair Kit
35. Tuna Fish (in oil)
36. Fire Extinguishers (or..large box of Baking Soda in every room)
37. First aid kits
38. Batteries (all sizes...buy furthest-out for Expiration Dates)
39. Garlic, spices & vinegar, baking supplies
40. Big Dogs (and plenty of dog food)
41. Flour, yeast & salt
42. Matches. {"Strike Anywhere" preferred.) Boxed, wooden matches will go first
43. Writing paper/pads/pencils, solar calculators
44. Insulated ice chests (good for keeping items from freezing in Wintertime.)
45. Workboots, belts, Levis & durable shirts
46. Flashlights/LIGHTSTICKS & torches, "No. 76 Dietz" Lanterns
47. Journals, Diaries & Scrapbooks (jot down ideas, feelings, experience; Historic Times)
48. Garbage cans Plastic (great for storage, water, transporting - if with wheels)
49. Men's Hygiene: Shampoo, Toothbrush/paste, Mouthwash/floss, nail clippers, etc
50. Cast iron cookware (sturdy, efficient)
51. Fishing supplies/tools
52. Mosquito coils/repellent, sprays/creams
53. Duct Tape
54. Tarps/stakes/twine/nails/rope/spikes
55. Candles
56. Laundry Detergent (liquid)
57. Backpacks, Duffel Bags
58. Garden tools & supplies
59. Scissors, fabrics & sewing supplies
60. Canned Fruits, Veggies, Soups, stews, etc.
61. Bleach (plain, NOT scented: 4 to 6% sodium hypochlorite)
62. Canning supplies, (Jars/lids/wax)
63. Knives & Sharpening tools: files, stones, steel
64. Bicycles...Tires/tubes/pumps/chains, etc
65. Sleeping Bags & blankets/pillows/mats
66. Carbon Monoxide Alarm (battery powered)
67. Board Games, Cards, Dice
68. d-con Rat poison, MOUSE PRUFE II, Roach Killer
69. Mousetraps, Ant traps & cockroach magnets
70. Paper plates/cups/utensils (stock up, folks)
71. Baby wipes, oils, waterless & Antibacterial soap (saves a lot of water)
72. Rain gear, rubberized boots, etc.
73. Shaving supplies (razors & creams, talc, after shave)
74. Hand pumps & siphons (for water and for fuels)
75. Soysauce, vinegar, bullions/gravy/soupbase
76. Reading glasses
77. Chocolate/Cocoa/Tang/Punch (water enhancers)
78. "Survival-in-a-Can"
79. Woolen clothing, scarves/ear-muffs/mittens
80. Boy Scout Handbook, / also Leaders Catalog
81. Roll-on Window Insulation Kit (MANCO)
82. Graham crackers, saltines, pretzels, Trail mix/Jerky
83. Popcorn, Peanut Butter, Nuts
84. Socks, Underwear, T-shirts, etc. (extras)
85. Lumber (all types)
86. Wagons & carts (for transport to and from)
87. Cots & Inflatable mattress's
88. Gloves: Work/warming/gardening, etc.
89. Lantern Hangers
90. Screen Patches, glue, nails, screws,, nuts & bolts
91. Teas
92. Coffee
93. Cigarettes
94. Wine/Liquors (for bribes, medicinal, etc,)
95. Paraffin wax
96. Glue, nails, nuts, bolts, screws, etc.
97. Chewing gum/candies
98. Atomizers (for cooling/bathing)
99. Hats & cotton neckerchiefs
100. Livestock

With unemployment and recession hitting us at home, we were happy to have stockpiled some of our basic necessities, including grains and beans, flour, frozen and jarred veggies and fruit, olive oil, paper products, batteries, borax and baking soda, vinegar, and a number of reusable (versus disposable) products. We have put a dent in our stockpile, and need to boost it up again. I would ideally have 3 months supply of food to fall back on, if needed.

Here are a couple of useful links:

Basic food storage guide lines http://www.trackmyfoodstorage.com/ar...eid=4&zoneid=1
Prepping guide http://athagan.members.atlantic.net/Index.html

My '101 Things in 1001 Days' Challenge

I first heard of the 101 Things to Do in 1001 Days challenge back in the summer of 2007, and, shortly after, I made my own list of goals to complete. Here are the rules of the challenge:

The Mission
Complete 101 present tasks in a period of 1001 days.

The Criteria
Tasks must be specific (ie. no ambiguity in the wording) with a result that is either measurable or clearly defined. Tasks must also be realistic and stretching (ie. represent some amount of work on my part.

Why 1001 Days?
Many people have created lists in the past--frequently simple goals such as New Year's resolutions. The key to beating procrastination is to set a deadline that is realistic. 1001 Days (about 2.75 years) is a better period of time than a year, because it allows you several seasons to complete the tasks, which is better for organizing and timing some tasks such as overseas trips or outdoor activities.

Some common goal setting tips
- Be decisive. Know exactly what you want, why you want it, and how you plan to achieve it.
- Stay focused. Any goal requires sustained focus from beginning to end. Constantly evaluate your progress.
- Welcome failure. Frequently, very little is learned from a venture that didi not experience failure in some form. Failure presents the opportunity to learn and makes the success more worthy.
- Write down your goals. It clarifies your thinking and reinforces your commitment.
- Keep your goals in sight. Review them frequently, and ensure that they are always at the forefront of your thinking.
_____

Now, about 2 1/2 years into my challenge, I am taking a look again to see which of my goals I have completed, which I need to focus on, and which ones I need to re-evaluate and tweak to meet my current life situation.

And, here is my mission. As I began to make progress on my list, I started crossing off the items as I completed them and writing explainations, if necessary...

Start date: July 25, 2007
End date: April 21, 2010 (my 28th birthday!)

Shana's 101 Things:

Reading
1. Reread the entire Harry Potter series, start to finish
2. Read six new novels in six months (6+/6) Rhett Butler's People, Mr. Monday, Flush, Fluke, Skinny Dip, The Stupidest Angel
3. Read 300 new books aloud to the girls (100+/100)
4. Read five books at the same time as David and discuss them with him (5/5) The Secret, Flush, Fluke, Nature Girl, A Dirty Job
5. Read all my unread books
6. Read the postpartum doula reading list (10/11)
7. Read the childbirth educator reading list
8. Read the birth doula reading list (6/6)

Writing
9. Write a letter to the editor
10. Publish an article or book
11. Create a real blog
12. Write a "To be read" letter for each David, Eva & Esme
13. Write in my journal at least twice a week for three months
14. Complete three of my many journals (3/3)
15. Write David three new love letters (3/3)

Arts & Crafts
16. Knit a blanket I knit one for Eva, one for Esme, one for a wedding gift...
17. Paint something Whirligig ornaments
18. Sculpt something I sculpted a dolphin and a mama & baby
19. Create a custom t-shirt I made several, one for David with Sonny on it, and a couple natural parenting/activism shirts.
20. Design a logo for a birth services company
21. Make all baby gifts for showers and new arrivals in advance I'm keeping on this one so far!
22. Learn to crochet
23. Teach Evelyn to knit
24. Take a bookbinding class

Photography
25. Document an entire day with pictures
26. Enter a photography contest
27. Buy a new digital camera
28. Create mini-albums for parents and grandparents twice a year

Home/Garden
29. Buy a piece of original artwork
30. Repot an orchid
31. Keep the TV off during meals for a full month
32. Keep the TV covered when not in use I'm good at this, but David is not.
33. Organize our office space
34. Make environmentally friendly cleaning projects and use them instead of alternatives
35. Spend a weekend preparing ten meals and freezing them
36. Clean out any junk and trash that accumulates in my car whenever I fill up
37. Plan and make a full meal that I've never eaten before Falafels in pita bread with fresh veggies and cucumber yogurt sauce
38. Donate a piece of clothing for every new piece of clothing I buy/get
39. Plant Spring bulbs Daffodils
40. Plant vegetables with the family Tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, peppers, collards, kale, cabbage
41. Pick apples or other fruit strawberries and tomatoes

Education/Vocation
42. Become Certified Postpartum Doula Thanks to CAPPA!
43. Become a Certified Childbirth Educator
44. Get my German back up to fluency
45. Teach Eva to read
46. Update my resume
47. Hold at least one childbirth preparation class
48. Educate myself on the pros/cons of circumcision
49. Educate my mother on the pros/cons of vaccinations

Travel
50. Travel to three states I've never been to (0/3)
51. Tour a winery or brewery
52. Visit a historical reenactment (not ren faire)
53. Visit another country
54. Take three day trips with the family (3/3) Madison, WI; Columbus, OH; Indianapolis, IN
55. Visit Kat & Chris once a year (1/3)
56. Do three letterboxing activities (1/3)
57. Walk along the sandy beach with my feet in the water I did this in Wisconsin in Lake Michigan and again in Daytona Beach, FL

Family
58. Play in the snow with the kids (winter)
59. Get pregnant with child 3
60. Go on a major family vacation We went to Florida: Disney World and Daytona Beach
61. Spend three complete days with just Eva and document with pictures and a diary/scrapbook (0/3)
62. Spend three complete days with just Esme and document with pictures and a diary/scrapbook (0/3)
63. Spend three complete days with just David and document with pictures and a diary/scrapbook (0/3)
64. Plan a large family celebration just because
65. Plan a surprise party for a loved one
66. Plan and have weekly game night
67. Go putt-putting

Finances
68. Put $100 extra a month toward paying off the rest of our debts
69. Put 50 cents in a jar everyday for 1001 days and buy something special for myself
70. Start a savings account for the girls
71. Save 50 cents a day for Christmas presents
72. Save all bonuses, tax returns, and rolled coins for a full year
73. After debts are paid off, $100 extra a month into savings
74. Increase my 401K
75. Establish a 12 month emergency fund

Health/Beauty
76. Take Tai-Chi with the family twice a week for a month
77. Floss everyday for a month (30/30) And I'm still doing this!!
78. Henna my hair
79. Eat nothing but fruit and veggies for 10 days
80. Take my supplements everyday for 10 days
81. Get henna done three times and photograph the design (0/3)
82. Get one full body massage a month for three months
83. Find an ND or an MD who practices natural medicine for the girls He's a homeopathic family doctor.
84. Find and buy the perfect purse Garage sale, 50 cents!
85. Try wearing contacts

Activate
86. Find a religious community to attend
87. Meditate at least once a day for a week
88. Take part in a protest for a cause I believe in Can you say Applebee's Nurse In??
89. Buy no new items for a month (excluding health & safety items, food, underwear)
90. Do a random act of kindness once a day for two weeks
91. Establish a childbirth services company
92. Attend three LaLache League meetings (3/3)
93. Establish a "mothering" group/circle
94. Have a serious discussion on breastfeeding with someone I normally would not talk about it with

Misc.
95. Pack my lunch for an entire month
96. Find a drive-in and see a movie
97. Draft and get notarized a living will
98. Be more mindful
99. Compile a book of recipes
100. Watch the sun set
101. Watch the sun rise