a lovely roast

I've finally put my new butchering skills to good (edible) use. I feel surprisingly comfortable shoving my hand in the cavity of a bird, but actually know very little when it comes to seasoning, slicing, and meat thermometers. Next to a couple of baked potatoes, this chicken was very good. Simple, but good.

image & recipe from whipped

Walter the Hound

I think we're officially a family!

crazy fast

A huge congratulations to my brother-in-law for winning the Portland Marathon last week. He never ceases to amaze me. And, I am equally proud of him and my sister for celebrating 10 years of marriage together!!!! I think a large celebration is in order.

marathon photos here

an abundant life

One of my favorite artists/bloggers over at Treasuring, also hosts a nice little blog focused on abundance, called Pecannoot. And she posted my gourd drawing!!! I am so inspired by her artwork (see amazing painting above) and also by the positive, uplifting nature of her creative blogs. I've had such an amazing and yes, abundant year, that sometimes it's difficult to express. I think her artwork pretty much sums up how I would like to live my abundant life.

peruse or purchase her artwork via etsy.

gourdy art

I am beginning to notice a trend here in my studio. The beginning of each new season makes me a little crazy and I start to draw.

So far, I think these gourds are my favorite. My sister accidentally grew a patch of renegade gourds and she's got hundreds! My front steps, table, and studio are adorned with the cute little guys and I can't stop sketching them.

AND, I just got my computer fixed. It was broken for the last two months (which was okay with me). But, I am glad its back. I've been itching to play with Adobe Illustrator lately.

pumpkins

We love fall!!! Especially in our new neighborhood! Nick and I decided that a pumpkin party was in order so we are busy planning a big carving shindig in a couple of weeks. I can't wait!!

Details here - Hope to see you!

hooked on hulu

It's about time I got into a show. Nick and I went sans TV when we lost our free cable last spring and our busy summer has left our set collecting dust in the spare bedroom. Luckily, there is Hulu. On demand doses of The Daily Show and our newest favorite, Glee. The teacher nerd in me is loving the high school based drama revolving around the glee club. If you loooove 90's throwback tunes (think Bel Biv Devoe & Color Me Badd) this show is for you. Even if you don't spend 12 hours a day in a public education setting you can appreciate its charm and its sometimes cheesy, but always awesome song and dance numbers. Watch the pilot here.