stinkpot studio

Sparkly Gems

2011-10-12T17:52:00.000-07:00

This week has been full of chilly mornings.

22 above

Fall is here - and maybe winter if we're lucky.

The Secret's In The Sauce

2011-10-05T15:40:00.000-07:00

This recipe was introduced to me by a friend about 7 years ago.

I have been making it every since.

If you try it . . . I hope you like it too!

Thai Yummy

1/2 cup chicken broth

1/4 cup peanut butter

1/4 cup soy sauce

2 tsp grated ginger

3 tbsp brown sugar

2 tbsp rice vinegar

2 tsp chilli paste with garlic

4 cloves minced garlic

Combine all in small pot over medium heat for 5 min.

Cut up 1 lb. of tofu into small cubes.

Shred 1 cup carrots.

Slice up 1 bunch green onions.

Cook 8 oz. of fettuccine.

Toss the fettuccine, carrots & green onions together.

Sprinkle tofu on top.

Spoon sauce over top, like spaghetti sauce.

Alterations can be made: Chicken, or even no protein instead of tofu. Change up your veggies - I used broccoli in my version because that was what I had on hand. Anything goes.

Tip: sauce is a little runny when it's cooking, but if you make it ahead of time (45 min.) then cool down, it starts to thicken up again.

YUMMY STUFF!

Nesting Bowls

2011-10-04T18:25:00.000-07:00

I made these bowls for a woman who bought some of my bowls at an auction and wanted MORE!

It made me feel so supported and appreciated.

Fresh Paint

2011-09-30T11:56:00.000-07:00

The ENTIRE house has been painted.

A project that has been weighing on me for quite some time.

I painted every single room and hallway minus the guest room.

However, this room (with it's high ceilings) was the most daunting.

We hired a professional for it, and it was worth EVERY penny.

He did a terrific job!

And the project is complete.

Yeah!

Fall Is Upon Us

2011-09-28T12:51:00.000-07:00

Fall is my favorite season.

It's been around 28 degrees at night.

Frosty mornings with your breath that lingers in the air.

The cranberries are ripe for the pickin'.

My only wish is that it lasted a lot L-O-N-G-E-R.

Lavender Is Growing

2011-09-20T12:48:00.000-07:00

Her eyes have changed color, and she is getting so big.

She is curious about EVERYTHING.

Wants to be with you, but will try to bite you if she gets the chance.

Visitors

2011-09-08T12:39:00.000-07:00

My sister and her friend - what lovely visitors.

Another visitor . . . on the bank of the river.

This bear had no idea that he/she made their trip.

We had so much fun with them.

Fishing for rainbows on the Kenai, glacier/bear viewing, lunch in Talkeetna, dinner at Saltry's in Halibut Cove,and finally a dinner party with 12 people and 9 doggies.

Wrangell St. Elias

2011-08-20T19:40:00.000-07:00

Gregg, Guinness and I flew to Wrangell St. Elias National Preserve this week.

We landed at May Creek (unfortunately I don't have ANY pictures of it).

Made camp in the public use cabin.

Totally cute!

Explored the area in search of water.

Then made a fire and sat around it with our wine and tall tales.

The next morning, we flew into McCarthy for breakfast.

After eating, we ran into a new friend at the airport.

He invited us to his house (yurt) for dinner.

How could we pass it up?

We flew in that evening and had a LOVELY dinner and enjoyed a rainbow over his house.

Took off after dinner and stayed one more evening at May creek.

Anyone play Farkle (dice game)?

It's totally addictive and a great game for camping.

Fairbanks Adventure

2011-07-24T13:45:00.000-07:00

Friday afternoon we flew to Fairbanks in our new Cessna 185.

83 degrees!!!!!!!

Parked at the airport campground - which by the way was AWESOME.

Then took a cab to the downtown for a little Thai food at Thai House.

Fairbanks Ice Museum

Fairbanks is very serious about their ice sculpting.
There are world sculpting events that happen in the dead of winter there.

"I'd like my drinks on the rocks!"

We also got to see the World Eskimo Indian Games while visiting for the night.
Very COOOOL!

Diamond in the Ruff

2011-07-20T13:38:00.000-07:00

Ellen, Jan and I camped at Diamond Ridge Beach - Homer, Alaska with a dog per person.

After setting up our camp, but before our beautiful beach walk.

Around 10 o'clock we heard an airplane.

Ellen knew by the engine sound that it was Gregg.

Sure enough, the ultimate "drop-in". After a couple of fly by's he landed and said "hello". What a nice way to spend a couple of beautiful days.

McCarthy Alaska

2011-07-12T11:47:00.000-07:00

Gregg and I met a friend, Pierre, in Gulkana and flew to McCarthy.

Set up our camp (under our wings at the airport).

Gregg in the foreground and Pierre 2 airplanes down.

Then, walked a few miles into town for a late dinner.

The next morning we walked back into town (this is "downtown" McCarthy).

There was a pancake breakfast for the entire community.

And an old car gathering.

This 27 model T driving through the dirt streets looked quite authentic.

Kennecott Alaska

A mining town only 5 miles from McCarthy.

It was a copper mine and a honest to goodness town in it's hayday.

Unfortunately it was a "dry" town, that's where McCarthy came in.

One of dozens of old cars that made a trek from Fairbanks Alaska.

Most of the drivers looked about as old, and as cute.

A lot of the cars were driven from Fairbanks because there is an amazing museum that the cars are displayed typically.

If you are an avid antique car junkie and have the opportunity to get there it is SO worth it!

Smitten

2011-07-06T10:09:00.000-07:00

This is a kitten that came into the shelter 2 weeks ago.
Less than a pound.
No mother.
No siblings.
Scared.
Hungry.
Imminent fate.

I took her home to "foster her".

Her name is Lavender Joon.

I'm already smitten.

It's Raining Kittens!

2011-07-02T13:15:00.000-07:00

(Flickr photo)

Thanks to my dear friend Ellen, we shipped 5 kittens today to better homes (hopefully).

They are currently in Anchorage awaiting a flight to Fairbanks where they will reside.

Can I say SPAY and NEUTER enough?????

One cat can potentially create 73,000 cats in it's lifetime.

It is just so much easier to have your pet spayed and neutered.

Wish the kitties luck for me!

Oh, and by the way, Scooches did get adopted . . . YAY!!!

Scooches

2011-06-26T10:59:00.000-07:00

As most folks know (who know me, or who read my blog) I volunteer at the local animal shelter once a week.

That is REALLY all I can handle.

I've decided to post (once a week) an animal who I deem

sweet/interesting/unusual

enough to find a loving home.

I'm just going to stick it out there and see if anyone out there in blog-land has any interest.

You never know.

So here's my first pet-of-the-week:

This little sweetie is Scooches.

She is 3 years old and is obviously missing her right eye.

Believe it or not, I tried to get a better picture of this girl, but she was loving me and my camera so much I couldn't get her far enough from me.

She is SUPER DUPER loving.

It was my understanding that her owner passed away and she has unfortunately ended up at the animal shelter.

If anyone has any interest in this girl . . . leave a comment or contact the Kenai Animal Shelter. Do it quickly, this sweetheart doesn't have much time.

907-283-7353 or

animal@ci.kenai.ak.us

Love You Mom!

2011-05-08T09:38:00.001-07:00

This is one of my favorite pictures.

It makes me remember how loved I have always felt.

I am lucky to have such a warm and loving mother in my life.

Yesterday

2011-04-29T08:49:00.000-07:00

Doesn't it seem like just yesterday that we watched Diana and Charles wed?

Drinking tea and eating scones and crumpets.

Pretending that we were somehow part of the wedding?

Flash forward to 2011

A new beautiful couple sharing their intimate partnership with the world (again).

Good luck sweet couple.

Odds and Ends

2011-04-23T10:23:00.000-07:00

Here's a tour of the odd or cute shops in our town.

These are just places that make me smile, because they are unique to the area.

This little log cabin is a formal dress shop.

Not your ordinary formal store!

This is a mish mash of restaurant and barber shop.

One of our best gift shops in town.
She has the best entry I've seen - love the mosaics.

A very hoppin' place in the summer!

This is next to a wood carving area next to the road.

This business is located at an area called Disfunction Junction.

You can see their cache in front.

This place makes me giggle.
The sign says it all doesn't it?

It's a cute little building.

Lastly, the local brew joint.

Thankful

2011-04-22T17:39:00.000-07:00

for each new morning with its light,

for rest and shelter of the night,

for health and food, for love and friends,

for everything thy goodness sends.

~Ralph Waldo Emerson

A Re-Do of a Re-Do

2011-04-21T08:48:00.000-07:00

So here is our dining room taken in February of 2010.

It is from my post here.

However, I got a bee in my bonnet and wanted another change.

I am never happy I tell you.

And it all started with this trestle table that I found at Sally's (Salvation Army) for a mere $65!
It needed some help, but I was up for the job!

I had a vision for the dining room to look more open and airy.

New (lighter) paint Woodsmoke by Glidden covers all of the walls.

So I hung curtains and took down the artwork (repositioned in another room).

Painted the table and Voila!

I am very happy with the results!

It has absorbed some time, but I have enjoyed creating and imagining.

Here is a shot of the detail of the legs.

I think they are cool!

Have A Seat

2011-04-20T18:57:00.000-07:00

I went to the Salvation Army today and found 2 chippy little chairs!

The vinyl was looking a little rough though.

So, I decided to re-cover with some left over linen fabric I had on hand.

Here it is after.

Still chippy

not perfect

I like.

Inhale

2011-04-18T14:48:00.000-07:00

A little reminder to take it all in.

Brunch

2011-04-17T14:44:00.000-07:00

Gregg and I flew to Girdwood for brunch.

Gorgeous day!

Mountains had a iridescent quality, very sparkly.

We had eggs benedict at

Jack Sprats

Delicious!

A memorable and delightful day

indeed!

Seldovia

2011-04-16T09:59:00.000-07:00

We flew to Seldovia for lunch with friends.

(over Kachemak Bay)

Had lunch at a quaint little restaurant

(the only restaurant).

It was a little cold out still,

so we had to eat inside.

Called The Tidepool . . . cute huh?

Then strolled around the town.

Colorful houses,

colorful people.

Captain Cook Beach

2011-04-15T09:53:00.000-07:00

This is my lovely friend.

She is a hunter.

I know what you're all thinking!

A hunter?

You . . friends with a hunter?

Well I could be.

She is a bonafide agate hunter

To her core.

She can't stop until her pockets are weighing her down.

And even then . . .

She keeps hunting!

Here's another rock hound.

This is Buckwheat.

Friend to all . . . except bunnies.

The Audacity Of Hope

2011-04-09T14:52:00.001-07:00

backyard - today April 9th 2011

front yard - today April 9th 2011

That's right I said TODAY!!!!!

As you can see (from the pics) that the sun is shining.

************

However, is it too much to ask for the snow to finally be gone?

Too hopeful?

************

That's alright . . .

I just came home from an awesome beach walk with friends and dogs.

Whales came right next to the shore and were feeding!

The mountains were completely unobstructed.

No breeze.

Beautiful!

My Little Star

2011-04-08T10:18:00.000-07:00

Guinness is one of 7 animals in our family.

We got him when he was 4 months old from the shelter.

He is a strange combination of several breeds of dogs -

we're always seeing a dog that reminds us of him.

For the last 3 months he and I have been working hard.

He did the Canine Good Citizen class,

and now he is an agility/rally class.

I am so proud of him (and me).

We are bonding more,

and learning about better communication.

The class is more about my mistakes than his.

Crazy.

I love this guy.

Cute On Top Of Cute

2011-04-03T21:02:00.000-07:00

snap

Did I put a smile on your face?

I hope so.

(all the credits/snaps to the pink loving photographers)

Decoration Inspiration

2011-04-02T21:48:00.000-07:00

All of these images came from here.

I really enjoy looking at this woman's website!

And feeling inspired.

I'm Dreaming Of A White . . . Kitchen

2011-03-31T09:03:00.000-07:00

My mom re-modeled our kitchen in the house I grew up in.

I have always admired her talent for interior design.

Anyway, she decided on dark wood cabinets and printed wall paper.

The wall paper was a white background with brown illustrations of dogs and cats.

It sounds odd . . . but I would LOVE LOVE LOVE this wall paper in my kitchen today.

Very cutting edge, my mom.

We also had a Ma Bell phone in chocolate brown, but I digress.

Until I can find THAT wall paper, I am going to stick with clean white in my kitchen.

But only until I find it.

Melts In Your Mouth

2011-03-27T21:56:00.000-07:00

Not in your hand!

We got some of these

COCONUT M&M'S in Hawaii last time!

Then, a friend brought back more!

My friends in Alaska thought I was joking . . .

COCONUT M&M'S!

They do exist.

And I'm here to tell you,

they are as good as they sound!

It's A Beautiful Day

2011-03-26T21:51:00.000-07:00

Anchorage and the Kenai Peninsula are

connected solely by this glorious road.

This is a pseudo-panoramic of our drive.

And on our left were dahl sheep!

Eat Strawberries

2011-03-25T16:13:00.000-07:00

These are luscious spring strawberries

(I am doing the Snoopy "happy dance")

on a plate that I made.

I made an eat, chew, nosh, nibble and sip series.

They make me smile.

As for the berries . . . they're gone!

Tiny Tumbleweeds

2011-03-24T09:40:00.000-07:00

This company: Tiny Tumbleweeds are absolutely brilliant!

You can click on the link to see ALL of the fabulous little or tiny houses and plans.

It is a little fantasy of mine to have one of these.

Hook it onto your car . . . drive off into the sunset.

Sorry the images are small and pixelated but I got them from the website to show examples.

I am in love!

also

See this link: Artisan Shepherd Huts

I'm thinking that we ALL need one of these in our backyards for a little getaway.

Too cute!

Movie Inspirations

2011-03-23T09:34:00.000-07:00

The kitchen from the movie It's Complicated.

Garden to drool over from It's Complicated.

Living room from the movie Something's Got To Give.

I love these two movies JUST to see the decor/sets.

Acting, plot, story . . . who cares?

Are the sets and locations beautiful?

Well Red Salmon Cake Consortium

2011-03-19T17:12:00.000-07:00

Members of The Well Read Salmon Cake Consortium Book Club

met at Engineer Lake on a sunny Friday afternoon.

(even the 4 legged ones!)

This is our book club minus 2.

(left to right)

Ellen a.k.a. Shifty Eyes

Jan a.k.a. Back to Front

Suz a.k.a. Speed Reader

We are very serious about discussing the book

(can't you tell?)

Book . . . what book?

First a hike.
Smallest to biggest in formation.

This is our sweet little cabin.
We walked about 30 minutes across the lake to access it.

Just us . . . some fabulous wine, awesome food,
great friends, lots and lots of laughter, dogs, hikes
and, oh yeah, a book.

After the dine and discuss Shifty Eyes
made a camp fire and we enjoyed the
lunar perigee (or the supermoon).
The point in which the moon’s orbit is closest to the earth.

It was clear and a spectular sight to behold.

The fog rolled in on the lake and it was enchanting!

Loved it!

Thank you all for making it

such a wonderful experience.

In case you're wondering what we read.

Wench
By Dolen Perkins-Valdez

Sorry Ladies . . . He's Taken

2011-03-17T23:29:00.000-07:00

Gregg and the pan of his home-made sticky buns!!!!

One of his BEAUTIFUL loaves of bread!

Fresh ground wheat with a natural levain (that he created!).

Aren't these gorgeous?

He made these goodies for my book club for tomorrow night's "meeting".

We are camping out at a cabin on a frozen lake

(after an afternoon of hiking with our dogs).

We are basically a wine club that reads books once in a while.

Anyway, he made these beautiful loaves of bread last night.

I took one to a neighbor and one was planned for our get-away.

Except our dog ate one that was left on the counter!

Unbelievable.

I am so glad I got pictures of them.

Happy St. Patricks Day

2011-03-17T09:15:00.001-07:00

I Fell

2011-03-16T09:20:00.000-07:00

flicker

The Eiffel Tower . . . what is it about it?

I see it, and I get weak in the knees!

My Life Sucks

2011-03-15T09:10:00.000-07:00

Ta- -Da!

Here she is! Yes it's a she.

I checked.

I am sick.

To be so excited over a vacuum is a sickness.

But here's the problem with vacuums . . .

I have to use them every day.

That's basically it.

I am actually thrilled to use it. Sick.

This purple beauty was Made In The USA!

Find out more at: Riccar Vacuums

Read a more comprehensive and articulate view on the madness of vacuuming at my Mom's blog.

You'll understand where my sucking sensibilities come from.

It's A Sign

2011-03-13T22:03:00.000-07:00

Our new sign from
Sugar Boo Designs

And a few more that I love

Thanks to Kelly McGuill for use of her photo

Thanks to Linda Banks for the use of this photo

Japan

2011-03-11T19:41:00.000-08:00

During this horrifically devastating time,

all of my positive thoughts and wishes are with the Japanese people.

The Great Wave off Kanagawa is a famous woodblock printing by the Japanese artist Hokusai.

Warm Up

2011-02-11T10:47:00.000-08:00

Gregg and I flew on Blue Hawaii Helicopter Tours in Maui.

It was awesome seeing the whales from above

(after we kayaked with them on the surface).

We also visited Surfing Goat Cheese,

a Lavender farm,

zip lined, kayaked, snorkeled, BBQ'd with friends,

walked by Oprah's house, ate amazing food

and watched the sunset EVERY NIGHT!

Then we headed over to the big island of Hawaii.

There we visited both sets of parents.

Enjoying everyone and taking in their unique and opposite sides of the island.

Both sides of the island however, had the same amazing night sky.

(you can click on the pics if you want a little bigger view)

Focal Point

2011-01-11T11:34:00.000-08:00

The mantle/fireplace when we bought the house.

Three and a half years later . . . the demolition begins!

Fireplace CENTERED!!!!! and hole filled.

Panelling up!

Painted!

Beautiful new mantle up, rock grouted in!

Voilà!

The semi-finished product.

In this photo the frame is still holding the rock while it dries.

and I haven't decorated yet . . .

but I LOVE THE OUTCOME!

Thank you Phil !

Next, the floors. :)

Buttercup

2011-01-05T18:22:00.000-08:00

Introducing (drum roll please) Buttercup!

She went to the vet yesterday and got a big check up.

And the groomer tomorrow.

Then she will feel thoroughly terrorized.

Poor thing.

She is a dream doggie.

Happy New Year

2011-01-01T17:21:00.000-08:00

I went to the Animal Shelter today and brought home this cutie old lady.

She is stone cold deaf.

Has arthritis.

Her hair is so matted that I'm wondering what I will find when I cut the mats out.

Small house? Child?

And is supposedly 13 years old.

An owner turn in.

Not sure why.

So far she is a gem.

Gets along with the other cats and dogs.

We are "fostering" her.

But, if she works out she will be one of ours.

Keep your paws crossed.

Oh, by the way . . .

Her name was Precious.

That will be changed.

She is deaf, she won't know.

I'm thinking Uno

It is after all 1/1/11.

Any other thoughts for names?

I really like "old lady" names too.

Let me know if you come up with something.

Judith Mountain Cabin

2010-12-31T10:32:00.001-08:00

Are you asking yourself . . .

Why did she post this?

What's it all about?

Is this all the same place?

To answer these and other questions:

First, these images ARE all of the same little building.

Inside and out.

The reason for this post is that we bought 40 acres of luscious Alaska forest last year.

We have walked the entire property, picked berries, and met neighbors.

So far I have been very content to basically use it as an "animal sanctuary".

Free of traps and other hazards.

However, in the back of my mind I have had an image of a simple life there.

The image that I had matched the one I found on this website.

This little cabin speaks to me.

Doesn't it feel like a tree house?

Just wanted to let you in on my day dreams.

The Hungry Visitor

2010-12-27T15:22:00.000-08:00

So, I just came back from buying a NEW birdfeeder at Fred Meyers today.

Filled it up for the birds and squirrels.

And just like clockwork, this guy comes out of nowhere.

And wrecked my new feeder.

But, I got some beautiful shots of him anyway.

Kitchen Of The Year

2010-12-03T09:50:00.001-08:00

These images are from House Beautiful

They are pictures of Ina Garten's kitchen.

I am so inspired by the space, light, and feel of this room.

It makes me want to cook something right now.

Her kitchen won "Kitchen of the Year"

So, they built a duplicate of this space

in Rockafeller Center in NYC.

A Little Skate

2010-11-21T19:43:00.000-08:00

It was a BEAUTIFUL day here.

20 or so degrees

The lake was pristine!

A couple of friends floating around a glorious lake on skates with dogs.

Could life get any better?

Wyoming

2010-11-17T17:51:00.000-08:00

Last week I flew to Wyoming to visit my parents.

My mom is Pinecones & Roses.
And my stepdad is Sagebrush Slim.
Check out their unique
perspective on life through their photos.

We went out on a photo
excursion one evening of the visit.

Buffalo, deer, and cows were
on the list of animals seen.

It is so fun to be with your parents
who enjoy doing what you love to do!

Enjoying each other
Taking pictures
Driving down country roads
Slowing down for nature

Aren't they cute?
We had just had one of two dinners
at a local restaurant.

Lastly, I got in a quick visit
with my 88 year old grandmother.

She's sharp as a TACK!
And her beautiful blue eyes
are still shiny.

What a great visit!
Thank you Pinecones and Roses
and Sagebrush Slim

for a great visit
but more importantly
for making me feel loved
unconditionally

California Dreamin'

2010-11-02T12:21:00.001-07:00

Gregg hhmmm, I mean Mavrick on USS Midway

Swimming pools, movie stars.

High Tea at the Crown and Crumpet.

Gregg was scared.
You can see it in this picture.
Once he realized the wait staff were BOTH men

(in striped and polka-dotted aprons) he calmed a bit.

A view from Ridge winery.
Amazing winery, amazing wine!

Don't you love the coastline?
I'd rather fly it than drive it though.

San Francisco - nuf said.

Good sports . . . all of them!

Pics are not all in this order . . .
but we went on vacation to California the last two weeks.

We went to San Diego (it rained the 3 days we were there).
However, we did get to go tour the aircarrier Midway.
Totally cool!

We sang the Top Gun song all day.

badadadada - high way to the danger zone

(that's where I forgot the words).

Then on to San Francisco (by now I had a full fledged cold).
We promptly found some Vietnamese soup (Phở) in Chinatown.

YUM - it has magical healing properties.

The cheapest and best meal we had on the trip!

We took a ferry over to Sausilito.
To anyone going to San Fran -
I would highly recommend going to the Ferry Building on the waterfront.
Shop til you drop in the fabuloso gourmet food shops in the building!
Oh MY!!
Then take a ferry to Sausilito.
It is so fun to see the city from the water.
Alcatraz etc.

Oh yes, and PLEASE do yourself a favor and go to Crown & Crumpet for high tea.
It is located in the Ghirradelli Square on the waterfront.
It was LOVELY!

After day 3 in the bay area we rented a car and headed over to Antioch
to see my sister, her fur babies and her new home.

We now have house envy.
She made a dinner to die for (MY SISTER!)

and we enjoyed a day of thrifting and gabbing.

Then we drove on to Placerville to view some airplanes that Gregg was drooling over.

And on to Petaluma for a week of noshing, drinking and soaking in the wine country.
I think we went to 11 wineries. Which is about 7 more than the guide book told us that and our livers should. Oh well. We had a ball and managed to gain some pounds. The food was fresh and beautiful and the wine was . . . well the wine was an experience to remenber.
(I think).

A highlight of our trip was when our friend Pierre flew up from his home in Santa Ynez to have lunch with us in Petaluma (at the airport TwoNiner Diner).
Then flew us down to Half Moon Bay for an ice cream cone.
Pierre is a man after my own heart.
He loves dessert, and so do I.

In a nutshell, we had a great time.
Always wonderful to be back home though.

What We Do On A Rainy Day

2010-10-02T20:34:00.000-07:00

Murray is studying the rain drops

on the windowsill and the mobs

of robins infiltrating our garden.

My mom wanted me to post a picture of Alaska.

Unfortunately, it's been rainy and windy.

This view shows my weeks of labor in the garden

(which used to be ALL grass).

Here Kitty Kitty Kitty

2010-10-01T08:54:00.000-07:00

(photo by Flicker)

Isn't this kitty sweet?

I love this picture and wanted to share it.

I've been volunteering at the local Animal Shelter

since the beginning of July.

It's been the most challenging and yet

the most rewarding work

I've ever done in my life.

How sad is that?

Every week I have to have restraint.

I'm a saver.

This has been a very good exercise for me.

Bord & Butik had a birthday

2010-09-24T13:17:00.000-07:00

Yes it's true.

Our dear friend Heidi (bord & butik)

had her 35th birthday again.

She is the sexy mama in the middle.

Her bookends are Veronica (on the left) and Mary (on the right).

We took her to Homer for ladies day yesterday.

These photos were taken at Two Sisters Bakery.

We hit Northwind Gallery, Homers Jeans, Blackberry Bog,

The Fringe, and Fat Olives.

To name a few.

I hope the three of you had as much fun as I did!

You are ALL beautiful women I feel fortunate to call my friends.

Peonies

2010-09-17T21:45:00.000-07:00

The sweet long days of summer are ending.

And the brisk darkness is upon us.

It's hard not to become melancholy when the sunshine fades.

This is a picture of a bouquet of peonies that I took this summer.

Ahhhhh summer.

What A Trip

2010-08-21T09:17:00.000-07:00

Summit, AK

Manley Hot Springs, AK

Yukon River

Bettles, AK

Denali, AK

Going home . . . Denali, AK

Gregg and I went on a little trip up to the gates of the artic.

We spent time in our tent, under our airplane wing,

in Manley Roadhouse and The Bettles Lodge.

It was relaxing and our big summer adventure.

Playing With A Full Deck

2010-08-04T18:37:00.000-07:00

Before

During

After

It has been 3 years of dreaming and scheming about how to best serve our purposes with our yard.

We wanted to see the wild life as it moved around us.

We wanted the "kids" to be safe and have a large area to lounge and play.

Though we have an acre, we didn't want to put a chainlink fence around the entire lot.

I had a deep distain for the green fence in the before and during pics. - It had to go!

The brick patio was beautiful in it's hey day, but now it was heaving and bulging in all of the wrong places.

My only regret is that we didn't do it 3 years ago!

Leave A Tender Moment Alone

2010-07-11T18:49:00.000-07:00

Django and Gregg relaxing and basking in sweetness.

Siskel & Ebert

2010-07-09T10:34:00.000-07:00

The Movie: Moose and the Midnight Sun

Rated G for grass

Siskel & Ebert gave it

an antler up - and an antler down . . .

What do you think?

This guy was in our backyard this morning.

I'm not sure what is wrong with his antler?

It looks swollen and funky.

7 Year Bliss

2010-07-04T09:13:00.000-07:00

July 4, 2003

Gregg and I celebrated our 7 year wedding anniversary.

It keeps getting better and better - sometimes I have to pinch myself.

This photo was taken a couple of weeks ago when we went razor clamming.

Fortunately, we didn't clam or fish on our anniversary.

We spent the time in Girdwood Alaska - eating, drinking, and being married.

My First Fish

2010-06-30T20:17:00.000-07:00

Gregg and I flew out to a remote location, landed on a beach and cast our lines.

A part (a large part) of me really didn't WANT to catch a fish.

I was enjoying the scenery and wildlife and surprisingly the rhythm of casting.

But with every cast, my odds of getting a fish increased.

And this made me terrified.

Ultimately, I did get this 31 lb. guy.

Yes it's a guy . . . I checked.

And a king (or also called chinook) at that.

I felt conflicted about taking a life - my first intentional "kill" aside from clamming for the first time this year.

I'm sure for so many people reading this they don't consider this "killing".

But I do.

I said a little thank you to the fish while we reeled him to shore and we intend on eating ALL of his meat.

Oiy, I'm such a chicken . . . but that's a whole other post.

40

2010-06-10T08:39:00.001-07:00

My lovely friends took me for a birthday hike on Tuesday.

We hiked up Skilak Lake Overlook trail.

It took 4 women . . . 6 dogs . . . . and one bottle of champagne to wish me a happy birthday!

(From left to right Deb, me, Ellen and Soledad)

Thanks for the beautiful day ladies.

Glacial Skilak Lake in the background.

(From left to right Soledad, Deb, me, and Carolyn)

New Chapter

2010-05-30T13:51:00.001-07:00

This is a photo of my niece Hannah with my sister Catherine.

This was taken about 6 years ago.

I love this photo.

It shows her deep love for her mother.

Hannah graduates from high school today!

The world is so big and boundless for her.

I wish her the absolute best and love her so much.

My Happy Place

2010-05-29T13:22:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my sunny creative space.

My inspiration in this space . . .
is a BEAUTIFUL handmade wallpaper print from my good friend at bord & butik.

It's SO LOVELY.
I can't get enough of it!

The thin bookshelf holds EVERY Country Home and Country Living from the last 10 years. Some Victorias and Martha's fill the space too.

I am obsessed with keeping them in order.

I must have been a librarian in a past life.

This mirror is aching for a makeover.

I've toyed with so many ways to doll it up.

But, it still sits there with it's boring frame happily reflecting the light.

My miniature Eiffel Tower collection.

With mon amour in the picture behind.

Sweet Tea

2010-05-28T13:38:00.000-07:00

A friend gave me flowers in a teapot she scored at the thrift store.

What a lovely idea and a thoughtful gift.

Thank you!

Seattle

2010-04-26T19:32:00.001-07:00

We took a quick trip (3 days) to Seattle to visit friends and family.

Seattle was our stomping grounds in the 90's.

It's been 10 years since I've REALLY walked the same streets and perused our old haunts.

Visiting old friends at work was special.

-And Gregg and I surprised his grandma!

It was fun to see the look on her face.

We bought flowers at Pike Place Market and took them to his aunts house.

Pictured is Grandma (left), Aunt Clara (middle), and Gregg (right).

Teabagger

2010-04-16T10:24:00.000-07:00

I enjoy Good Earth Tea.

They have beautiful quotes and sayings.

Sometimes they say JUST what I needed to hear.

Living Room Re-Do

2010-04-05T20:03:00.000-07:00

The back living room

BEFORE

The back living room

AFTER

A little dining area with the living area.

I spent the entire day Friday repainting this back living area.
I was exhausted but in a good way.
Now the floors HAVE to go.

Musings

2010-04-03T19:55:00.000-07:00

Chandelier made by a raven.

All found items (keys, strainers, toys, necklaces, etc)

Are you looking at this Heidi . . .

I'm thinking CRAFT DAY!

Paper rolled up and covering sconces.

Amazing!

Recycled plastic bottles cut into flower form and hung on string.

These are all taken at the Anthropologie in Carmel CA.

Snaps to the art department - these were all so awesome.

California

2010-03-29T17:45:00.000-07:00

We're back from our week long trip to California to visit my sister (me on the left, her on the right).

Gregg and me on Pebble Beach (17 mile drive).

We spent a couple of hours in Napa. This is the winery we toured. It's called Sterling Vineyards - and I would highly recommend it.

Rocks on Pebble Beach. I tried to bring one back to Alaska (as a souvenir for a friend) and it was confiscated by the TSA! What has the world come to?

The Restless Sea - 17 Mile Drive

Point Joe - 17 Mile Drive . . .

The Lone Cypress - 17 Mile Drive

18th Hole at Pebble Beach - 17 Mile Drive

Maybe next time Gregg can fulfill a dream and golf here!

A pooch at Carmel.

My new favorite place!

Hearst Castle - San Simeon

We spent 4 hours in San Francisco . . . not long enough.

However we did eat lunch at this ADORABLE diner.

Napa and Sonoma were all I expected and more.

My only regret . . . not spending more time there.

Murmalade

2010-03-16T13:20:00.000-07:00

We got Murray aka Murmalade (also known as The Terrorist) in November.

Since then he has completely turned our house UPSIDE DOWN!

He is smart and full of energy (a bad combination).

Murray deep in thought . . . "who should I attack first?"

Don't let his cute factor fool you!
He is never relaxed - always considering what to get into or who to punish.

We laugh a lot at his antics and enjoy him to no end.

HAPPY

2010-03-13T11:21:00.000-08:00

It's a beautiful day and the sun is shining into our bedroom.

I'm sitting in bed with my husband and three of our seven pets.

My coffee is almost gone . . .

(have no fear there's more downstairs in the pot).

I'm very happy.

-I hope you are too!

Gray

2010-03-11T18:37:00.000-08:00

This fabulous blog!

I'm not sure where this photo came from? Sorry.

Same great blog.

and again . . .

velvet and linen blog

anthropologie

anthropologie

These are just a few photos I've collected - I like them ALL!!!

Avalanche

2010-03-09T14:22:00.000-08:00

This morning at 8:00 we were ready to head home.

The car had about 3 feet of snow packed on and around it.

After clearing it, clearing the driveway, and loading the car it was about 9:00.

Checking the weather and road conditions we found out that there was an avalanche from Girdwood to Anchorage this morning.

Feeling unaffected and glad we were going the other way, we jumped on the highway and got a few yards down the road just to find a road block.

ANOTHER avalanche towards Portage (our direction).

RATS!!!

So we came back into town and decided to have a sweet roll at The Bake Shop.

When someone in the parking lot told us about another avalanche at the day lodge!!!

Basically AT the ski resort. Crazy.

We're hoping they'll clear the road by tonight.

We're chomping at the bit to get home.

Caught in a Blizzard

2010-03-08T12:55:00.000-08:00

Not that kind of blizzard unfortunately!

We had planned on being back to our animals and the comfort of our familiar little life today.

But mother nature had other ideas.

The snow is coming down SO HARD.

The mountain pass that we would be traveling through is considered dangerous right now.

So we're sitting in the lobby of the Alyeska Resort watching the snow fall.

Trying to relax and just enjoy the beauty of it all.

Alaskan Fashion

2010-03-07T14:37:00.000-08:00

Introducing the latest in winter fashion.

Straight from Sweden.

The Skhoop skirt. All cold fashionistas are wearing them.

Preferably with wool long johns underneath. Too cute!

Another must have . . . the Patagonia nano-puff jacket.

For the cold little footsies a little quilting on the feet.

UGG

Then to top it off . . .

Dale of Norway - Harmony/Peace hat

I've become extremely conservative with color in the last few years.

My gray temples and mood only support my gray phase.

A little white snow and some black, white and gray fashion.

What do you wear when it's cold?

It's Friday!!!

2010-03-05T09:04:00.000-08:00

We're headed out of town this weekend!

Just a long weekend in Anchorage,

but we're going to catch a live acoustic guitar show downtown

and have dinner at Saks.

Woohoo!!!

Maybe we'll hit Nordies, REI, Tidal Wave Books,

and Summit Tea and Spice.

Can you tell that I'm excited?

And somewhere in there we're going to see . . .

These are our friends Peter and Rosey.

Their son was born February 19th.

We still haven't seen the new family.

So I'm sure we'll have to stop and say "hi".

The snow is coming down hard but it's not going to stop us!!!

Classics

2010-03-03T15:20:00.000-08:00

The classic white shirt.

I have 6 . . . all different.

The black turtleneck . . . preferably cashmere.

And a lovely pair of black slacks.

The perfect pair of jeans.
Denim is really a favorite!

Chinos

White t-shirt.

If it was good enough for James Dean it's good enough for me.

In a past life I must have been a fisherman.

I'm always attracted to this sweater.

Yeah for classics!!!

Some pearls and/or diamond earrings and you're set!

Designers Style

2010-03-02T15:06:00.000-08:00

Ralph Lauren

Have you ever thought . . .

Coco Chanel

Why fashion designers wear timeless, classic pieces?

Georgio Armani

And look refined . . .

Liz Claiborne

And sophisticated . . .

While we struggle to keep up with the trends that THEY create?
Why not take a cue from them?
Why not wear classics with a few trendy accessories?
Why do we keep falling for the brainwashing messages that the fashion world tells us?
Just because they need to sell more clothes . . .

Betsey Johnson

Except Betsey . . .

The girl has a style of her own.

She walks the walk,

and talks the talk.

As for me, I will probably always question society's affects on me.

I will forever be conflicted and confused.

I will try to enjoy fashion, buy quality items and take good care of what I do have.

The Real Ultimate

2010-03-01T09:28:00.000-08:00

This would be THE PERFECT outcome

(however, I would really like my fireplace made out of round rocks that we have collected).

I really like this look though.

I wonder if I could persuade Gregg?

When what he REALLY wants is this!

Back Room Re-Do

2010-02-26T18:26:00.000-08:00

As the room currently exists.

Fireplace off center. HUH???

Mantel goes all the way across the wall. HUH???

The folks who built this house had a TV that fit perfectly in the big hole in the wall.

Gregg's idea . . .

Take off the mantel completely and frame the fireplace.

Build more "shelves" into the built in wall.

A completely different idea.

Work with the bizarre off-center fireplace.

Build shelves that can accomodate books and artwork.

Bead board the entire wall - covering the existing "hole".

Shelves (probably book shelves more than the picture of cabinets).

This would be the ideal.

The fireplace moved (crazy as it sounds apparently it wouldn't be that difficult).

Symetrical shelves next to the fireplace.

And, bead board background.

If you read this and have an opinion about which one looks best, please leave a comment.

I am interested in everyone's opinion.

Thumbs up or down?

2010-02-25T20:56:00.000-08:00

This was the first movie I saw Kate Beckinsale in.

I loved each and every character in this movie.

It's a smart, funny, English movie.

If you haven't seen this movie . . . see it!

Debbie Reynolds plays Molly Brown. She is pure energy and entertainment.

One of my favorite scenes is when Molly wants to go to France.

And she sings "I want to learn how to read and write . . . in FRENCH"

"I want to see what there is to see . . . in FRANCE"!

My husband and I quote that scene daily.

This film was better than we expected.

Any "stink-factor" was off-set by the Seattle scenes.

Oh how I miss Seattle.

Anyway, Jennifer Aniston is adorable, as usual.

I don't know if I'd necessarily recommend it to everyone - but I just wanted to share.

If You Must Smoke . . .

2010-02-15T11:24:00.000-08:00

I almost forgot to post what Gregg received on Valentines Day!

The Hospice Auction was on February 13th. Gregg and I went, however, he was called into work shortly after we got there. So for a good portion of the auction it was just me, my number, and a glass of champagne. Not a good combination.

We had discussed getting a Traeger grill for a while,

and there just so happened to be one at the auction!!!

These grills are amazing, they smoke (wood pellets) and grill.

So me being me . . . I spent some money.

It was perfect timing for a Valentines gift that I wanted to get,

but couldn't justify.

So far, we have baked a take-and-bake pizza and grilled bacon.

Gregg is pimping it up.

Yesterday he bought a cover, more pellets, a salmon smoking rack and a new thermostat (which is even more accurate than the current one).

What is it about a grill that unlocks the primal needs of a man?

I can't say . . . but if it makes him happy - so be it!

SO-WEET!

2010-02-14T18:49:00.000-08:00

Valentines Day gifts from my one-and-only.

The shoes were hand painted by a nurse at G's work - Denise Rosin.

Such a talented woman!!! They blew me a way.

And the Chanel 5 . . . hello. Love it!

Dining Room Do-Over

2010-02-13T18:39:00.000-08:00

The dining room - BEFORE

During . . .

Taking a lunch break!

My unpaid helper Murray aka Murmalade.

A calendar my mom bought for me in 2000 - this poor thing. It has seen MANY moving boxes in the last decade, somehow it is still intact.
My goal was that one day I would frame each month because they are SO BEAUTIFUL! This calendar was the inspiration for this re-do.

After

Hospice

2010-02-12T18:52:00.000-08:00

I made these bowls for a hospice auction that we attended last night. I'm not sure how much they went for . . . but I hope it was alot. Hospice is such a great cause.

Bill Campbell Pottery

2010-01-31T22:50:00.000-08:00

Bill Campbell is my inspiration for pottery. He is my "standard" of what beautiful functional pottery should look and feel like. We own a few of his pieces, and I find myself standing in the kitchen holding them, studying them mesmerized in the enchanting handmade glazes.

You can see more of this gorgeous pottery here.

In Another Life . . .

2010-01-08T09:08:00.000-08:00

I would be living in this gorgeous little apartment in Sweden.

Even better if it were in Paris.

Courtesy of these lovely people.

Saturday Morning

2010-01-02T21:46:00.001-08:00

We flew up to Willow area (Crystal Lake) to have brunch at a friends new cabin.

Pancakes and maple syrup, English muffins, bacon, eggs, potatoes, oranges, good coffee and great friends.

The mountains were glorious and shining.

The air was crisp (-24 below to 10 above) depending what altititude we were.

Our friends were AWESOME. We had a blast.

Once In A Blue Moon

2010-01-01T21:39:00.000-08:00

2 Full Moons
in One Month!

This picture was taken at the Kenai Beach.

It was about -4 and the wind was blowing - even the dogs HAD IT!

When do you get this opportunity though?

Resolution

2010-01-01T18:32:00.000-08:00

I'm going to try to grow my hair out this year

this picture is my goal.

I doubt I will look like her when it's grown out

unfortunately I'll still look like me.

And the shiny golden brown will be gray/white/ and ashy brown.

Oh Well!

Scary Christmas

2009-12-26T11:49:00.000-08:00

Wishing all of my friends, family and fellow bloggers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. These images came from here I think they are a riot.

Give Me A Bud

2009-12-17T18:03:00.000-08:00

These are 4 of the 12 bud vases that I made for the holidays. I liked them with this red tiger lilly zen-ly poking out.

Yummy

2009-12-16T10:32:00.000-08:00

I love the feel of this room!

Hardwood floors, gorgeous light, and bright kilim rugs.

YUMMY!

Old Timers

2009-12-05T09:09:00.000-08:00

Django - the "Lady Di" of the dog world

Brutus - the law enforcement

Just as people post picture after picture of their children - I am just as guilty of being enamored by my animals. I'm sure it's strange to many - but, I am in constant admiration of their loyalty, companionship, and unconditional love. Looking through all of my favorite blogs (mostly decorating) I wish I could come up with some inspiring decorating pictures or ideas for future projects. Or even better . . . some fabulous pottery. But, my animals seem to be front and center in my consciousness.

"Yesterday I was a dog. Today I'm a dog. Tomorrow I'll probably still be a dog. Sigh! There's so little hope for advancement" -Snoopy

Snow Angel

2009-11-23T13:02:00.001-08:00

While I was walking around in our backyard I came across this doggie snow angel! I thought it was so sweet that I wanted to share. It's Brutus (of that I'm sure). He loves to "breakdance" outside in the cold. It must feel invigorating to him!

The Bomb

2009-11-22T13:50:00.001-08:00

This recipe was written out by our favorite waitress. She happily disclosed the classified ingredients of one of our best loved deserts "the pumpkin bomb". The restaurant is the finest in town. It's called The Fine Thyme (we always have a fine time there). If you're ever in Soldotna AK, stop in and get a Grilled Cheese Our Way. It's the best! Thanks for the recipe Bobby!!!

PARIS

2009-11-20T14:44:00.000-08:00

I am addicted to Harney & Sons PARIS tea. The tea is a black tea that has a floral and citrus-y flavor. Much like an Earl Grey. I just bought some lemon marmalade at a craft fair last weekend. I had it on English muffin bread, with a cup of Paris tea (with cream and sugar of course). What a treat.

And, I have an ever-growing Eiffel Tower collection. The one in this picture is from my friend Heidi's fabulous little shop. See her blog at: http://bordandbutik.blogspot.com/

She's a good friend - and is always looking out for Paris finds for me.

Back To Good

2009-11-18T08:38:00.000-08:00

Everyone (the cat and dog) are on the mend - thanks to everyone's well wishes. Guinness was treated with some antacid medication, that apparently worked. And the cat (whom we still haven't named) is bright eyed and bushy tailed. WHEW!

This is a picture of my cat Coffee and I on our neighbor's walkway. Animals have been a part of my family's life for as long as I can remember. A compassionate and empathetic spirit is in my DNA. I struggle daily, feeling conflicted about tyrany and inhumane treatment to the vulnerable. Whether that be animals, children, elderly, or the challenged. I wouldn't change my sensitivity for callousness . . . but I have to imagine that life would be easier.

Bloody Monday

2009-11-16T14:21:00.000-08:00

Guinness woke up this morning sick. After going outside (-5) and going to the bathroom, he vomited blood. Four times!!! I knew he was sick when he refused his food, and went back up into bed. He is so pathetic when he's sick! Dog only knows what he got into . . . but we're going to the vet to figure it out this afternoon.

And, the newest member has been confiscated to our guest bathroom. When I opened up the door to the bathroom this morning it looked like the Godfather set. There was blood on the floor, the walls, and the door. He didn't look bad (as you can see above). Happy, hungry, thirsty, and loving. The vet thought maybe he had a bloody nose and sneezed alot.

OIY!!!

I can't wait for this day to wrap up and get everyone well again!