Sunday, December 21, 2008
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
So Many Little Things...
So little time left! I know I have been a bit neglectful lately. I have three little ones, and we have just been hit hard this season with back to back illnesses... Just when one starts to feel better, another one will have a fever... UGH! I hate being sick myself, and it's just miserable to watch your kids struggle through a fever or stomach virus. Yikes!
Anyway, not to be a little ray of sunshine, but I thought I was actually going to be ORGANIZED this holiday season, well, one big HA_HA on me. We decided to give homemade preserves for Christmas this year to some of our lucky friends and family, this was done by my hubby back at summer's end, so I thought- wow- I can actually coast now... AND here's how the trouble always begins right? You know you have one less thing to do, you take it for granted now that you have that extra bit of time now and you get lackadaisical about everything, then BOOM- you suddenly realize that there are only 9 shopping days left until Christmas... and the panic sets in! Did I mail a card to cousin Eddie, why didn't I buy that scarf for Granny when it was on sale, will my brother really appreciate that gift certificate to the "man spa"... and it goes on like this until the tree is trimmed, all the presents are wrapped, stockings stuffed, and Christmas dinner is on the table...
I have found that now more than ever this year, I am really trying to shop local for gifts, or buy homemade crafty gift items online. I have been surfing Etsy like crazy for unique treasures and awe-inspiring baubles at an amazingly affordable price. I am even going to *Gasp* crochet a hat for my sister (at her request!) I think that this year, in light of the economic situation we are facing, it is so important that instead of just arbitrarily buying gifts just to be giving something to a person, that we really take a moment to think about the person that will be receiving this gift. I have found that just by going to Etsy and browsing all of the wonderful and creative items up for sale, that inevitably I see something that reminds me of someone, or that inspires my direction somehow. This is really an incredible site that you should visit when you have the time to sit down and really browse. Another great blog for crafts and ideas is Jessica Jones' How About Orange.
Another feeling that I have, which I mentioned before, is that I wanted to try to support local artisans and the community by buying things made locally here in Tennessee or even just made the USA... Do you know how hard this concept is becoming?! Commercially, you can forget it with the big stores, I read that four out of five toys sold here in the US are made in China. I know that kids are always going to want that fabulous toy they've seen on tv. However, for the adults in your life, there are a few local shops that will pride themselves on supporting local arts and crafts. In Oak Ridge, you can start by perusing the shops at Jackson Square, where you can always stop for a yummy snack and well-earned hot cuppa coffee at Moondollars Cafe (where I actually bought one of my Christmas gifts - a print by the artist & mathematician Stacey Kite,) and then perhaps make your over to the Corner Gallery at Grove Center. Believe me- compared to battling the mob in Wal-Mart, it's a much nicer way to spend an afternoon of shopping.
Anyway, not to be a little ray of sunshine, but I thought I was actually going to be ORGANIZED this holiday season, well, one big HA_HA on me. We decided to give homemade preserves for Christmas this year to some of our lucky friends and family, this was done by my hubby back at summer's end, so I thought- wow- I can actually coast now... AND here's how the trouble always begins right? You know you have one less thing to do, you take it for granted now that you have that extra bit of time now and you get lackadaisical about everything, then BOOM- you suddenly realize that there are only 9 shopping days left until Christmas... and the panic sets in! Did I mail a card to cousin Eddie, why didn't I buy that scarf for Granny when it was on sale, will my brother really appreciate that gift certificate to the "man spa"... and it goes on like this until the tree is trimmed, all the presents are wrapped, stockings stuffed, and Christmas dinner is on the table...
I have found that now more than ever this year, I am really trying to shop local for gifts, or buy homemade crafty gift items online. I have been surfing Etsy like crazy for unique treasures and awe-inspiring baubles at an amazingly affordable price. I am even going to *Gasp* crochet a hat for my sister (at her request!) I think that this year, in light of the economic situation we are facing, it is so important that instead of just arbitrarily buying gifts just to be giving something to a person, that we really take a moment to think about the person that will be receiving this gift. I have found that just by going to Etsy and browsing all of the wonderful and creative items up for sale, that inevitably I see something that reminds me of someone, or that inspires my direction somehow. This is really an incredible site that you should visit when you have the time to sit down and really browse. Another great blog for crafts and ideas is Jessica Jones' How About Orange.
Another feeling that I have, which I mentioned before, is that I wanted to try to support local artisans and the community by buying things made locally here in Tennessee or even just made the USA... Do you know how hard this concept is becoming?! Commercially, you can forget it with the big stores, I read that four out of five toys sold here in the US are made in China. I know that kids are always going to want that fabulous toy they've seen on tv. However, for the adults in your life, there are a few local shops that will pride themselves on supporting local arts and crafts. In Oak Ridge, you can start by perusing the shops at Jackson Square, where you can always stop for a yummy snack and well-earned hot cuppa coffee at Moondollars Cafe (where I actually bought one of my Christmas gifts - a print by the artist & mathematician Stacey Kite,) and then perhaps make your over to the Corner Gallery at Grove Center. Believe me- compared to battling the mob in Wal-Mart, it's a much nicer way to spend an afternoon of shopping.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
In the spirit of Thanksgiving.... A Love Letter
I know I have been delinquent in my posts as of late. There has been a whirlwind of activity on this end, and I have been negligent, so for that I am deeply sorry.
As of late, with leaves turning color and winter setting snugly in, I have been in a bit of a romantic, yet somber mood. So, instead of reading any thoughtless banter I might come up with for this Thanksgiving, I thought you might consider reflecting on the last words of love of Major Sullivan Ballou (March 28, 1829 – July 28, 1861) of the 2nd Rhode Island Infantry, written to his adoring wife Sarah just before he lost his life in the Battle of Bull Run. I can remember the first time I heard this beautiful letter, some years ago, I was driving in the car listening to a radio program about the Civil War.
His letter, his words, still stand so relevant to this country today. I guess being the wife of a former Marine, these words really struck a chord. I am dedicating this post to all of you, my friends and family - any of you who are missing a loved one's dearest presence this Thanksgiving. Let us all reflect on the many forms of love in our lives. Especially that love of your beloved spouse, and family, of country, and of our own duties in this life as Americans...
July the 14th, 1861
Washington D.C.
My very dear Sarah:
The indications are very strong that we shall move in a few days -- perhaps tomorrow. Lest I should not be able to write you again, I feel impelled to write lines that may fall under your eye when I shall be no more.
Our movement may be one of a few days duration and full of pleasure -- and it may be one of severe conflict and death to me. Not my will, but thine 0 God, be done. If it is necessary that I should fall on the battlefield for my country, I am ready. I have no misgivings about, or lack of confidence in, the cause in which I am engaged, and my courage does not halt or falter. I know how strongly American Civilization now leans upon the triumph of the Government, and how great a debt we owe to those who went before us through the blood and suffering of the Revolution. And I am willing -- perfectly willing -- to lay down all my joys in this life, to help maintain this Government, and to pay that debt.
But, my dear wife, when I know that with my own joys I lay down nearly all of yours, and replace them in this life with cares and sorrows -- when, after having eaten for long years the bitter fruit of orphanage myself, I must offer it as their only sustenance to my dear little children -- is it weak or dishonorable, while the banner of my purpose floats calmly and proudly in the breeze, that my unbounded love for you, my darling wife and children, should struggle in fierce, though useless, contest with my love of country?
I cannot describe to you my feelings on this calm summer night, when two thousand men are sleeping around me, many of them enjoying the last, perhaps, before that of death -- and I, suspicious that Death is creeping behind me with his fatal dart, am communing with God, my country, and thee.
I have sought most closely and diligently, and often in my breast, for a wrong motive in thus hazarding the happiness of those I loved and I could not find one. A pure love of my country and of the principles have often advocated before the people and "the name of honor that I love more than I fear death" have called upon me, and I have obeyed.
Sarah, my love for you is deathless, it seems to bind me to you with mighty cables that nothing but Omnipotence could break; and yet my love of Country comes over me like a strong wind and bears me irresistibly on with all these chains to the battlefield.
The memories of the blissful moments I have spent with you come creeping over me, and I feel most gratified to God and to you that I have enjoyed them so long. And hard it is for me to give them up and burn to ashes the hopes of future years, when God willing, we might still have lived and loved together and seen our sons grow up to honorable manhood around us. I have, I know, but few and small claims upon Divine Providence, but something whispers to me -- perhaps it is the wafted prayer of my little Edgar -- that I shall return to my loved ones unharmed. If I do not, my dear Sarah, never forget how much I love you, and when my last breath escapes me on the battlefield, it will whisper your name.
Forgive my many faults, and the many pains I have caused you. How thoughtless and foolish I have oftentimes been! How gladly would I wash out with my tears every little spot upon your happiness, and struggle with all the misfortune of this world, to shield you and my children from harm. But I cannot. I must watch you from the spirit land and hover near you, while you buffet the storms with your precious little freight, and wait with sad patience till we meet to part no more.
But, O Sarah! If the dead can come back to this earth and flit unseen around those they loved, I shall always be near you; in the garish day and in the darkest night -- amidst your happiest scenes and gloomiest hours -- always, always; and if there be a soft breeze upon your cheek, it shall be my breath; or the cool air fans your throbbing temple, it shall be my spirit passing by.
Sarah, do not mourn me dead; think I am gone and wait for thee, for we shall meet again.
As for my little boys, they will grow as I have done, and never know a father's love and care. Little Willie is too young to remember me long, and my blue-eyed Edgar will keep my frolics with him among the dimmest memories of his childhood. Sarah, I have unlimited confidence in your maternal care and your development of their characters. Tell my two mothers his and hers I call God's blessing upon them. O Sarah, I wait for you there! Come to me, and lead thither my children.
Sullivan
As of late, with leaves turning color and winter setting snugly in, I have been in a bit of a romantic, yet somber mood. So, instead of reading any thoughtless banter I might come up with for this Thanksgiving, I thought you might consider reflecting on the last words of love of Major Sullivan Ballou (March 28, 1829 – July 28, 1861) of the 2nd Rhode Island Infantry, written to his adoring wife Sarah just before he lost his life in the Battle of Bull Run. I can remember the first time I heard this beautiful letter, some years ago, I was driving in the car listening to a radio program about the Civil War.
His letter, his words, still stand so relevant to this country today. I guess being the wife of a former Marine, these words really struck a chord. I am dedicating this post to all of you, my friends and family - any of you who are missing a loved one's dearest presence this Thanksgiving. Let us all reflect on the many forms of love in our lives. Especially that love of your beloved spouse, and family, of country, and of our own duties in this life as Americans...
July the 14th, 1861
Washington D.C.
My very dear Sarah:
The indications are very strong that we shall move in a few days -- perhaps tomorrow. Lest I should not be able to write you again, I feel impelled to write lines that may fall under your eye when I shall be no more.
Our movement may be one of a few days duration and full of pleasure -- and it may be one of severe conflict and death to me. Not my will, but thine 0 God, be done. If it is necessary that I should fall on the battlefield for my country, I am ready. I have no misgivings about, or lack of confidence in, the cause in which I am engaged, and my courage does not halt or falter. I know how strongly American Civilization now leans upon the triumph of the Government, and how great a debt we owe to those who went before us through the blood and suffering of the Revolution. And I am willing -- perfectly willing -- to lay down all my joys in this life, to help maintain this Government, and to pay that debt.
But, my dear wife, when I know that with my own joys I lay down nearly all of yours, and replace them in this life with cares and sorrows -- when, after having eaten for long years the bitter fruit of orphanage myself, I must offer it as their only sustenance to my dear little children -- is it weak or dishonorable, while the banner of my purpose floats calmly and proudly in the breeze, that my unbounded love for you, my darling wife and children, should struggle in fierce, though useless, contest with my love of country?
I cannot describe to you my feelings on this calm summer night, when two thousand men are sleeping around me, many of them enjoying the last, perhaps, before that of death -- and I, suspicious that Death is creeping behind me with his fatal dart, am communing with God, my country, and thee.
I have sought most closely and diligently, and often in my breast, for a wrong motive in thus hazarding the happiness of those I loved and I could not find one. A pure love of my country and of the principles have often advocated before the people and "the name of honor that I love more than I fear death" have called upon me, and I have obeyed.
Sarah, my love for you is deathless, it seems to bind me to you with mighty cables that nothing but Omnipotence could break; and yet my love of Country comes over me like a strong wind and bears me irresistibly on with all these chains to the battlefield.
The memories of the blissful moments I have spent with you come creeping over me, and I feel most gratified to God and to you that I have enjoyed them so long. And hard it is for me to give them up and burn to ashes the hopes of future years, when God willing, we might still have lived and loved together and seen our sons grow up to honorable manhood around us. I have, I know, but few and small claims upon Divine Providence, but something whispers to me -- perhaps it is the wafted prayer of my little Edgar -- that I shall return to my loved ones unharmed. If I do not, my dear Sarah, never forget how much I love you, and when my last breath escapes me on the battlefield, it will whisper your name.
Forgive my many faults, and the many pains I have caused you. How thoughtless and foolish I have oftentimes been! How gladly would I wash out with my tears every little spot upon your happiness, and struggle with all the misfortune of this world, to shield you and my children from harm. But I cannot. I must watch you from the spirit land and hover near you, while you buffet the storms with your precious little freight, and wait with sad patience till we meet to part no more.
But, O Sarah! If the dead can come back to this earth and flit unseen around those they loved, I shall always be near you; in the garish day and in the darkest night -- amidst your happiest scenes and gloomiest hours -- always, always; and if there be a soft breeze upon your cheek, it shall be my breath; or the cool air fans your throbbing temple, it shall be my spirit passing by.
Sarah, do not mourn me dead; think I am gone and wait for thee, for we shall meet again.
As for my little boys, they will grow as I have done, and never know a father's love and care. Little Willie is too young to remember me long, and my blue-eyed Edgar will keep my frolics with him among the dimmest memories of his childhood. Sarah, I have unlimited confidence in your maternal care and your development of their characters. Tell my two mothers his and hers I call God's blessing upon them. O Sarah, I wait for you there! Come to me, and lead thither my children.
Sullivan
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Spend All Hallows Eve at Moondollars Cafe
Hey fellow Oak Ridgers- at the Moondollar Cafe tonight they are featuring tarot readings by Victoria and you can settle in and watch the Rocky Horror Picture Show! I stopped by today, and got a sneak peek of tonight's menu and it looks fabulous! My stomach is growling just thinking of pumpkin sweet potato soup... it sounds so good! All hail all things pumpkin!
Speaking of pumpkins, my husband's carving skills will be on display outside in the form of a carved beauty he donated to Moondollars today. It's our favorite one that he's done this year. It's a scene he did from the animated Hayao Miyazaki movie "Our Neighbor Totoro." Go on down and see it in the flesh- or check out his new blog The Psycho Carver for more wicked pumpkin carving masterpieces!
Thursday, October 23, 2008
In the Beginning, There Was A Pumpkin...
Did my husband out-do himself this year or what? I told you we take Halloween seriously in this household! In this line up you can see a dragon, Pinhead from Hellraiser, and Jack Skellington! He usually does one pumpkin for each member of the family... the kids really like picking out the pictures they want him to do. I believe the dragon came from one of those pumpkin carving kits you can buy at Target that comes with all the little tools. The patterns for Pinhead and Jack Skellington were found on The Pumpkin Wizard although my husband adapted them to suit his own pumpkin carving strategy.
This one is really this year's masterpiece... For all of you Hayao Miyazaki fans, this one's for you! It's from My Neighbor Totoro and this is our all-time favorite so far!
My husband actually drew this by hand looking at a scene from the movie and adapting it to create his own pattern. Isn't it adorable! If you haven't seen a Miyazaki movie, you should really be bonked on the head. No, really, all of his movies are absolutely wonderful, stunning illustrations, great story lines, your kids will LOVE these movies! Although I recommend his movies, be aware that not all of his movies are appropriate for all age groups. Even though these are animated features, some of the movies have content that is not appropriate for young viewers. This is especially true for one called Graveyard of the Fireflies... it deals with really sad subject matter, and after watching this my hubby and I were glum for days. Make sure to screen it, or ask someone before you show it to the kiddies! I recommend Totoro and Spirited Away, Kiki's Delivery Service would be a fun one for Halloween, but Howl's Moving Castle is my favorite.Here's A Little Reminder- PumpkinFest 2008 is going on this Saturday at Grove Center from 11am-5pm. Here is info. from their Facebook page.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Have a Tiki... or Two
I told you folks I that I am absolutely crazy MAD about Halloween! I hope you enjoy my little Halloween tikis design I've been working on... and yes, the flowers are supposed to be made of candy corn! In case you don't already know, I also like Hawaiiana. My 3 year old is a big fan of the surprised one. She was totally hovering over my shoulder while I was draw-ring them. I am still tinkering around with them, I can't stop myself! I have a whole page of this design that I am considering posting as Halloween wallpaper... wha-da-ya-think- trick or treat?!
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
"You didn't tell me you were going to KILL it!"
Well, Folks, I have been up to no good this week- learning new stuff, doing school stuff, just all kinds of stuff involving parental and kid things... So my post will be short and sweet- forget the presidential debates- ARE YOU READY FOR HALLOWEEN? The nostalgic in me needs to get in tune with my childhood and dig up my copy of "It's the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown," so that I can force my kids to watch it as some sort of parent-child bonding ritual. Here's a little treat for all you Linuses out there!
Speaking of killing the pumpkin- here is a pic of last year's Great Pumpkin courtesy of my husband's mad carving skills... We'll see if he can out-do himself this year!
Speaking of killing the pumpkin- here is a pic of last year's Great Pumpkin courtesy of my husband's mad carving skills... We'll see if he can out-do himself this year!
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