Forget Everything I've Ever Said About Food

I kind of give up.

Alright, I only give up a little bit. But still. I'm throwing in the towel, hanging up my apron, and setting aside my fancy shmancy ideas about food.

It's summer and I don't want to cook. Or measure. Or stand over a hot stove. I don't seem to want to be within five feet of the kitchen. Yet I still have the inconvenient desire to eat something (and--incidentally--so does my family). Not just *any* something, mind you. I have discriminating tastes. I want to eat fresh, flavorful food that tastes complicated and luscious and takes me less than 10 minutes of prep time.

Am I asking too much?

This past week I've had to entirely toss the raw vegan dream for the summer as I can't seem to juggle raw vegan food prep with writing/knitting pattern designs, writing a book, and working on freelance articles (all while still being a reasonably sane wife and mother). Something's gotta give, and apparently it's food.

Needless to say... I'm kind of hungry.

I start hallucinating when I'm stuck at the computer for a four hour stretch, and find myself dreaming of having a personal chef to do all the work for me. I have obviously grown too fond of The Food Network (and this coming from a woman who has been without television for over 5 years!).

I mean, really. Throw a little brussel sprout hash in front of me (sans bacon and chicken broth, of course) and I'm yours forever.

So I'm on a new mission. I want decadent, scrumptious, gourmet vegetarian flavors that can come together FAST, and that are family friendly and filling (I am the mother of teenage boys, remember). And they have to be generally gluten-free (you can see my problem, can't you?).

What to do. What to do.

Do you have a favorite FAST and delicious vegetarian recipe to share? Gluten-free is great, but as long as bread isn't the main event I can probably adapt it.

Help me, Rhonda. Help, help me Rhonda!

Marie-Jolie

Pay it Forward: Crafties to the People

Because I'm not silly enough, I thought I'd participate in the latest little blog frenzy: Craft it Forward. I can't help it. I'm sort of a sucker for sharing homemade things. AND I just super love all of you who hang out with me here in my little cyberspace "pad". What better way to show the love than to share a little homemade goodness?

CRAFT IT FORWARD

Here's how it works:
1. The first THREE fabulous comments to this post who agree to the Craft it Forward Pledge will get a little something made by my two hands. I make no promises as to size or awesomeness, but--being the perfectionist that I am--I think you'll enjoy what you receive. My goal will be to put a smile on your face and brighten your day when you open your little parcel.

2. Craft it Forward Pledge: In order to be fully eligible you must a) Post something similar to this on your blog that tells what you're up to b) Agree to send THREE little handmade "somethings" to commenters on your blog. It doesn't have to be anything major- even a homemade card will do the trick! Just a little something.

3. I won't guarantee how soon your little gift will be shipped out to you... sometime in the next few weeks. It wouldn't be a surprise if you knew when to expect it!

Would you love to Craft it Forward? The first three lucky commenters who take the Craft it Forward pledge are in like Flynn!

Marie-Jolie

p.s. Thank you to "Handmade by Jess" for sharing this great idea!

Things You Learn About Yourself by Taking Facebook Quizzes

Since joining Facebook about six months ago I've learned quite a lot about myself. It's not every day that I dig deep enough to ask the hard questions: like which Harry Potter character I am, or which dessert best describes my personality.

Today I learned that--if I were a 1980's toy--I would be a Lite-Brite.

Other mind-numbingly deep insights I've gained through the scientifically defunct and chronically misspelled series of Facebook quizzes:

• My birthday--though actually being in February--indicates that my birth month is September. (Which apparently means that I'm compromising, critical and organized.)
  
• If I were a character on The Office, I would be Jim.
• The decade that best describes me is the 1960's.
  
• If I were a TV mother, I would be June Cleaver.
• Where should I be living? Paris.
• In Dr. Phil's Personality Test, I am the Lively Center of Attention
• If I were a mysterious character, I would be Miss Marple.
• In terms of 1980's rock bands, I would be Journey.
• In tarot cards, I am The Queen of Swords
• As musical leading ladies go, I would be Tracy Turnblad
• If I were an element, I would be water.
• How old is my soul? According to Facebook: Very old.
• If I were a Marvel superhero, I would be Storm.
• What is the song to describe my life? Unwritten by Natasha Bedingfield.
• What color is my aura? Orange.
• What Barbie doll am I? Vintage Barbie, of course.
• Which decade am I? 70's Groovy Hippie. (But wait... I thought they said I was the 1960's? I'm so confused.)
• If I were a character in Steel Magnolias, I'd be Clairee Belcher.
• As writers go, I'm Jack Kerouac.
• Which sexy lady am I? Audrey Hepburn. (I disagree- Katherine Hepburn all the way!)
• Which lady from the Bible am I? Mary Magdalene. (Is it just me, or am I a walking contradiction?)
  

I scored 100% on Facebook's Ultimate Grammar test, but only 85% on the Napoleon Dynamite trivia test.

Obviously I'm a very complicated person.

I feel so self-aware. Thank you, Facebook. If it weren't for you, I would never have known that if I were a Smurf, I'd be Brainy.

Pardon my identity crisis. I hardly know myself anymore.

*wink*

Sometimes it Helps to Get Out of Your Head

Please ignore the fact that my legs have a strange resemblance to a set of pirate peglegs in this bizarre snapshot, as they usually look pretty normal. In spite of that: I have to brag that I have the cutest house slippers in the world. They were a gift from my sister, B. She knows me pretty well. Sheep on my feet. Yep, totally something I would wear.

I thought I'd draw your attention to the new pdf file for the little knitalong Midsummer Afternoon Dream Pillow/Bag. I've added it to the sidebar as well. It's really just a quick knit project--no frills to speak of--but it makes a great little gift or relaxing treat for yourself. I didn't bother to snazz it up much as I'm up to my eyeballs in writing these days (and some that I'm actually getting paid for, which is a plus!). If I want to even remotely entertain the idea of keeping up with my blog while writing a book and doing freelance work on the side, I have to let go of a little perfectionism where I can. And I say this while wearing my sheep slippers and thinking about how long it's been since I had a haircut.

In other news:

1. I have no desire to cook lately. I still have the desire to eat, inconveniently enough, but not the urge to actually make something to eat. And yet, I gained back the two pounds I lost last week and I have no explanation for that fact (seeing that I don't feel like cooking, and all).

2. I had to frog a good portion of my latest design for the book because it had quickly become a project that I dreaded, despised, and did just about anything to avoid. I figure if I were up to that level of loathing, then it was doubtful that anyone else would have the slightest interest in knitting it either. It looked like a million bucks, but looks aren't everything. I can say that with convinction, now that I've seen how the other half live (the half with gorgeous but insanely stupid sweaters).

3. I realized this week that I have a tendency to get lost in my head a little bit (as a result of my insanely ambitious mission to accomplish ten million things before I die), and it's always good to come out for a breather and see what's going on in the real world once in awhile. It's much easier to climb back into the creative cycle with a little fresh perspective.

4. I also realized that frogging is a metaphor for life. But I'm going to save that thought for tomorrow as I think I've rattled on long enough for today!

Marie-Jolie

Winner, Winner Tofu Dinner!

The winner of the Tea Party giveaway is:
True Random Number Generator Result: 22

Comment #22 was: Runako Designs

Congratulations!

For the rest of you sweet visitors, I will be uploading the snazzier pdf file of the knitalong project for you to easily print and download. You'll likely see that added tomorrow.

Did you all enjoy your tea parties, by the way? I certainly did. (But I made quite a mess in my tiny kitchen, if you want to know the honest truth!)

And for those who have asked about photos of my tiny galley kitchen: My handsome hubby (also sometimes referred to as Captain Procrastinator) has yet to finish my ceiling or range hood over the stove. He means well, bless his heart. But summer time means more outdoor projects and less indoor ones. I haven't forgotten you, my curious readers. I promise. I'm just waiting until it's all nice and purty before I share. Soon, I hope!

Marie-Jolie

Tea Party & Knitalong (& Giveaway!)

I shared my tea party today with my mom, and between the two of us we somehow managed not to have a single tea cup. How is that possible? Mugs, glasses, cups... yes. Tea cups? No.

Instead we used a set of vintage 1950's picnic ware. Surprisingly, the food tastes the same whether it's on china plates or plastic. Betcha didn't know that!

We had tea steeped in the sunshine... mmm.

Have you ever had peach tea steeped in the sunshine for a few hours? It's a favorite memory from my childhood. To make your own single size sun tea (any flavor or style of tea) add 2 tea bags to a 12 ounce jar (approximately) along with cold water. Steep in the sunshine for at least two hours, and sweeten as desired. 8 Tea bags in a large pickle jar will make enough for guests.

Could it be any easier?

~*~

No tea party is complete without pretty. little. foods.

Herbed Triangle Finger Sandwiches
My vegan variation on a lightly savory tea biscuit sandwich. This is a dense but soft little biscuit, and it holds the filling well. It's quick to make, has a mild flavor that works well with your favorite filling, and makes a tea party feel extra special.

2 c. whole wheat flour
1 c. all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cream of tartar
2 Tbsp minced sun dried tomatoes
1/2 tsp onion powder
dash garlic powder
1/4 c. margarine
splash olive oil
1 Tbsp minced dried rosemary
1 c. soy milk (any milk will work)
1 Tbsp sesame seeds (for topping)
1/2 tsp salt

Preheat oven to 425. Combine all dry ingredients, including spices, in a mixing bowl and cut in margarine with a pastry blender. When margarine is evenly disbursed, add soy milk and tomatoes. Mix gently into a soft dough. Turn onto a lightly floured surface. Form very lightly into a ball, but do not work too much or the dough will become very tough. Coat your hands lightly with olive oil and gently pat around dough ball. Roll dough out to a 9 inch circle. Cut into 8 equal wedges (like pizza slices), brush lightly with olive oil, sprinkle with sesame seeds and bake on a cookie sheet for 15 to 20 minutes. Serve warm or cold.

Slice each wedge in half like a sandwich bun and fill with your favorite sandwich additions. Mine have fresh spinach, cucumber slices, a slice of tomato, red onion, a light drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette.. and a sprinkle of feta cheese for those who don't mind the dairy.

Vegan Toasted Coconut Cupcakes
Vegan Cupcakes Take Over the World

1 c. flour
1/3 c. cocoa powder
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 c. coconut oil
1 c. coconut milk
3/4 c. sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tsp coconut extract
1/2 c. unsweetened shredded coconut
---------
Toasted coconut
Buttercream frosting

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line miniature muffin tin with cupcake liners. Sift together dry ingredients. Melt coconut oil in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, turn the heat off but leave it in the pan on the stove so that it stays warm and doesn't solidify. In a separate bowl mix together coconut milk, sugar, vanilla and coconut extract. Stir in the melted coconut oil. Add the flour mixture in batches, beating well after each addition. Mix until smooth, then fold in the shredded coconut. Fill cupcake liners 2/3 full and bake until the tops spring back when touched.

Top with homemade buttercream frosting (I make mine vegan style), and toasted coconut. To toast your coconut, pour coconut into a small preheated frying pan and stir with a spatula over medium heat--tossing constantly--until honey brown and uniformly toasted. Spread out and let cool before placing on frosted cupcakes.

~*~

A Tea Party Knit-a-long
also known as "A Midsummer Afternoon's Dream Pillow" (with three options!)

by Marie-Jolie
You will need:
1 skein/ball soft cotton worsted weight yarn (I'm using Knit Picks' Comfy Worsted)
1 set of size 7 straight needles
Dried lavender flowers and flax seeds to fill the pillow

Cast on 28 stitches.
1. K1, (P1, K1) repeat across row
2. P1, (K1, P1) repeat across row
3. K2 tog, (YO, K2tog) repeat across row (ending with 27 stitches)
4. Purl across row
5. K1, (P1, K1) repeat across row.
6. Purl across row
7. (RS) P1, K2, P2, K3, P2, K2, P1, K1, P1, K2, P2, K3, P2, K2, P1 (27 stitches)
8. (WS) K2, P2, K2, P1, K2, P2, K2, P1, K2, P2, K2, P1, K2, P2, K2
9. (RS) K1, P2, K2, P1, K1, P1, K2, P2, K3, P2, K2, P1, K1, P1, K2, P2, K1
10. (WS) P2, K2, P5, K2, P5, K2, P5, K2, P2

Repeat rows 7-10 until your dream pillow reaches approximately 7-8 inches long. End at row 10.

Next row: (RS) Knit across row
Next: K1, (P1, K1) repeat across row
Next: (RS) Knit across row
Next: P2 tog, (YO, P2tog), repeat across row. (End with P1 instead of P2tog)
Next: (RS) K1, P1, K1 (Repeat across row)
Next: (WS) Bind off in K1, P1, K1 repeat across row.

Option 1: For a Wide Dream Pillow

Make two (one for the front, one for the back).

Place wrong sides together and stitch together along three sides (with yarn or sewing machine) and run ribbons through the eyelets along the top and bottom (but do not pull tight). I believe it will work best to make a little rectangle shaped muslin pillow form to pour your lavender and flax into, then stitch closed along the top and slide down into your Dream Pillow. Just sew a simple piece that fits the size of your knitting project- nothing fancy (as you won't be seeing it).
Slide your cotton pillow into the knitted bag, and then draw the top ribbons together and tie off at the sides.

Option 2: For a Quicker Narrow Dream Pillow (this is the one I am giving away!)
Knit only one piece, and fold it in half lengthwise. Stitch the skinny "bag" together along one short side and the length of the bag. Then fill with a thin cloth bag full of flax and lavender, and thread ribbon through the eyelets along the open edge to close.

Credit where credit is due: I adapted the stitch design from a sweater pattern in Debbie Bliss' Family Knits.

Another Option: Knit one piece and fold it half width-wise. Stitch along both side edges and run ribbons through the top eyelets to create a little jewelry bag.
Make your own Midsummer Afternoon's Dream Pillow, or win one here by leaving a comment to this post!

Are you knitting with me?

I think I will write up the knitalong as its own separate pdf file and attach it here when I have it finished. :)

Marie-Jolie

I Can Knit When It's Sticky

I rewarded myself this week with an order from Amazon. It's been months--literally months--since I bought myself a book. Weird. I'll review them both for you once I've had the chance to read through them.

The first is:

French Girl Knits: Innovative Techniques, Romantic Details, and Feminine Designs

(I happened to find this very interesting link which lead me to this very interesting link while searching the book title online. Knitting retreat in France, anyone? I might just have to start saving up!)

And also:

Mommy Millionaire: How I Turned My Kitchen Table Idea into a Million Dollars and How You Can, Too!

I've already heard very good things about Mommy Millionaire from my friend Gabrielle, who suggested that I buy it ASAP.

In other news, it's about a million wet degrees here. The earth has apparently fallen of its axis, because the freakishly DRY midwestern state of Nebraska is now getting a nightly thunderstorm of ginormous magnitude. Earth-shattering thunder. Pelting rain. Hail. Weeks and weeks. Months, even.

Major wet + Major hot= Major muggy.
And no air conditioning, but I'm not fussing about it. I'm just stating the facts.

I like it hot. I even like it muggy. I do notice, however, that my knitting sort of sticks on the needles.

I can handle it. I'm knitting anyway.

I also rearranged my furniture today.
...Vacuumed the corners.
...Weighed myself and lost 2.4 pounds since last week, but still can't fit my little bitty pants yet.
...Wrote several articles for my new *paying* freelance job, which thrills me utterly and completely (not even so much writing them, but knowing that I will actually get paid for them!)
...And tomorrow I'm making preparations for Friday's tea party. You will come, won't you? There will be goodies and prizes...

See you soon!
Marie-Jolie

It's a Tea Party You Won't Want to Miss!

As if knitting and writing weren't enough (almost, but not quite), I want to entice you to join me for a lovely Mad Hatter's Tea Party on Saturday, June 27th. Right here at PTU (and be sure to visit all the other blogs participating, as I'm sure you'll find more goodies than just one!). It will be a LOVELY event; one that you will most certainly not want to sleep through.

What you can expect:

1. A most delicious recipe for tea & cakes
2. A delightful tea cozy giveaway (which you can only find here)
3. A wee knit-a-long project that you can finish in just one day. (Because tea and knitting go hand-in-hand if you ask me.)

I hope you'll join me on Saturday. Wear your party clothes and pin curls and we'll surely be in stitches before the day is over.

Swing by!
Marie-Jolie

... and then I had dinner with The Yarn Harlot

I am simultaneously working on my third design for the book (which you don't get to see until the publisher of my dreams takes it off my hands and gives it back in book form- if wishes have wings and all of that) and also knitting myself this:

Why? Because it's fast, and because I can.

It would make more sense to devote my time solely to the projects which are intended for the book (which might be what real writers and designers do, but not THIS hack job). That would be really insanely boring (if you want to know the truth). I'm all for keeping things fresh and lively, and I do this by knitting far too many things at once and loving them all. Multiple projects keep the juices flowing.

This newest cardigan is called "Juliet" (which you can find online here), and of course I've messed around with the pattern in just about every possible way that a knitter could defile a pattern and yet still have it look something like the real thing. It's what I do.

This photo is just one day's worth of work, if that's any indication as to how quickly this will knit up. In the mood for a quick, freakishly easy, fashionable knit? This might be the one.

As always you can see my tweaks on Ravelry.

On a random side note, I had a dream last night that I had dinner with The Yarn Harlot (Stephanie Pearl-McPhee) and that we were very good friends. I don't know about you, but I think she and I would get along swimmingly in the real world. All day today I had to keep reminding myself that I don't actually know her (but I'd like to!), and we're not actually friends (but we could be!). Darn it.

If you could have dinner with a crafty celebrity, who would it be?

Marie-Jolie

PTU Tutorials

In case you've missed one or more of these fun patterns, projects, and/or tutorials, I thought I'd share a master list of some of the highlights here at PTU (Permission to Unwind).

Rugged Camper Cookset
Knit a Mug Cozy
Recycled Produce Bag into Beach Bag
Placemat Tote Bag
Recycled Canister Gift Basket
Beginner's Sock Knitting Tutorial & Pattern
Recycled Sample Jar for Bath Oil
Quick Neighbor Treat Tray
Knit an Easy Baby Hat
Recycled Cardboard Postcards
Flannel Pear Doorstop
Knit a Retro Dishcloth
Quick Sew Bread Gift Bag
Quick Coaster & Fabric Drawer Sachets
Natural Dye for Fiber
Quick Recycled Cookie Carrier
Doorknob Sachet Case (Sewing)
Knit a Scarf Bookmark
Repurpose Candle Jars
Recycled Shortening Bucket (one of my favorite projects!)
Sew a Card-Keeper
Sew an Oilcloth Zipper Pouch
Sew Darling Strawberry Scissor Fobs
Sew a Sweet Wonky Potholder
Re-Purpose a Jelly Jar!
Printable Booklet for Natural Face Scrubs
How to Make Your Own Soap

Enjoy!
Marie-Jolie

Something Finished

It's always nice to finish something (and quickly too!). I love the way this little camisole fits and has just the right drape. It's the perfect color that matches absolutely everything, and how can you get better than that? If you're a Raveler, I have it in my project file so you can look up the particulars.

Today is a busy day, so I'm off again. :)

Have a good one!

marie-jolie

Recipe: Oven Baked Sopes (gluten-free!)

The recent issue of Vegetarian Times magazine (May/June 2009) had a gluten-free recipe that I was excited to try. I made them for dinner tonight and have proven once again that success at mealtime is all about the presentation. These cute little "sopes" put a unique spin on familiar tastes, and my boys raved! I could serve this same thing in a casserole, and I know for a fact it would not have been as well received. A little "cute" goes a long way!

I'm including the recipe with my adjustments (as I didn't have all the ingredients on hand and made a few substitutions). I thought this was quite tasty and quick, and it will be easy to save the leftovers (separately) to reheat for lunch tomorrow. Thanks to the masa these are quite filling, but I made a double batch anyway, just in case.

Oven-Baked Sopes

3 c. masa harina
1/4 c. Parmesan cheese (optional- I omitted it)
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp salt
1 large egg, lightly beaten
3 Tbsp olive oil
1 c. grated Monterey Jack Cheese (I omitted this)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper (I didn't have parchment, so I just well-floured my pan with masa and no problema!). Mix together masa, salt, baking powder, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Then add 2 1/2 c. warm water, oil, and beaten egg. Stir until mixture forms a soft dough and let sit for five minutes.

Using 1/4 c. size pieces, roll mixture into balls and flatten slightly (using extra masa to prevent sticking). Flatten onto the cookie sheet, pressing outward and then turning up the sides evenly all the way around. The recipe says to use a glass and press it into the center and flute the edges up around it. I found it to be just as easy to do it by hand.

Bake for approximately 10 minutes, or until sopes look dry and crackly.

The recipe suggests sprinkling each sope center with a bit of grated Monterey Jack Cheese and returning to the oven for a few minutes to let it melt, but I omitted this step.

To serve: Place one sope on each plate and fill with a helping of Zucchini-Corn Filling and sprinkle with feta cheese (if desired). Serve immediately.

Zucchini-Corn Filling
(with a few of my changes)

3 Tbsp vegetable oil
1 small onion, diced
6 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium zucchini, cubed
1/2 c. fresh or frozen corn kernels
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1/4 c. chopped fresh cilantro
2 Tbsp lime juice
Chili powder, for sprinkling
(I also added leftover chili-seasoned TVP from the tacos that we had for lunch, but this isn't necessary... but it was yummy!)

Heat oil in skillet over med-high heat. Add onion and garlic and saute for a few minutes, until they begin to soften. Add zucchini and corn and saute for a few minutes more. Then stir in the beans, seasoned TVP (if you want to add it), and heat through. Then stir in the lime juice and cilantro and sprinkle with chili powder (if desired). To serve, scoop into Oven Baked Sopes and sprinkle with Feta cheese. Enjoy!

marie-jolie

Musings on an Ordinary Day

Photo by Dries Knapen

Today I

... Made my bed.

...Watched the clouds roll by as I floated on my back at the swimming pool.

...Saw my boys jump off the diving board, gaze longingly at pretty girls, and yet still reach for my hand on our evening walk together.

...Played a board game with my boys.

...Kissed my husband.

...Finished knitting a sweater.

...Hung my laundry on the clothesline.

...Decided not to eat anything after 7pm so that I can fit back into my skinny jeans before August.

...Talked with a friend.

...Talked with my sister.

...Drank plenty of water.

...Wore my fuzzy slippers that look like sheep.

...Sat on a wet toilet seat :(

...Noticed a new age spot.

...Smiled. A lot.

What did you do today?

marie-jolie

Morning Walk in Paris, Among Other Things

(Your walk begins by taking the metro to the Pont Neuf stop.)

It's been a quiet start of the week. The sun graced us with her presence just long enough that I could hang four baskets of laundry on the line...

(Head east along the Seine River.)

(Turn to your right and cross the bridge.)

I have been knitting rather intently on this lovely camisole project, sneaking it in between the "have-to's" and the "should's". It's coming together so quickly I'm almost sorry to see it nearing the end. Don't you love those little pleats under the waist band?
(On the other side of the Pont-au-Change is the boulevard du Palais.)

And, as you can see... I set aside my knitting for a moment to flip through my Open Road's Best of Paris tour book to think about what I might be doing if I were in Paris this morning. This morning's mental "walk" is heading in the direction of Notre-Dame, Ste-Chapelle, and Ile St-Louis.

Maybe I'll stop at a little cafe and have breakfast while I'm here. :)

marie-jolie

Nifty Thrifty: Affordable Purse/Bag Handles & Pattern Links

If you knit or sew, then chances are you've had occasion to consider making a purse. And if you've been in the market at all for purse handles, then you've probably noticed that something as simple as wooden (or plastic) handles can cost $5-$8 like these or these. Even on sale, handles seem a bit overpriced.

My nifty solution is to stop by your friendly neighborhood thrift store and discover the great deals on handles in the form of old bags and purses. The bags pictured above may not be gorgeous, but the handles are every bit as good as what I'd be able to buy locally for 4-5 times the price! The bags cost just over $1 each. That's what I call Nifty Thrifty!
I was also able to reclaim a zipper from one of the bags, making this project extra nifty. It took me roughly 15 minutes to remove the two handles and one zipper from the bags, but I saved an estimated $15-$18 that it would have cost to buy new materials.

A few free patterns that you could make to go with your thrifty new handles:

Wood Handle Tote by Lion Brand (Knit)
Wood Handle Tote by Lion Brand (Crochet)
Felted Purse with Wood Handles (Crochet)
Placemat Tote Bag (easy pattern here on PTU)
Buttercup Bag (This one doesn't have wood handles, but it's a cute free sewing pattern)
Twin Cable Purse (Knit)
Funky Knit Purse
Felted Knit Purse (pdf file from Joanne's Fabric & Crafts)
Knit or Crochet Purse from Coats & Clark
Berroco Knitting Tote
Sweet Trees Clutch Purse (sewing)

I'll share pics when I eventually get around to using these. I have plans for them for Christmas gifts, so it will probably be awhile.

Enjoy your Nifty Thrifty adventures in purse making!
~marie

A Winner, Summer Inspiration & Thanks

First, thank you to all who participated in my clothespin (peg) giveaway! The random lucky winner of the vintage bag is.... Comment #1 Sally! (Hey, the first one almost never wins! Woo hoo, Sally! You must be lucky!) Sally, please email me your snail mail address to leafygreenes at gmail dot com. Congrats!

Today I have several tidbits I want to share, and then later today I will post the Nifty Thrifty. I actually have it all written and ready to post, but I didn't want to bombard you with too much at once. So I'll wait until after lunch and then post it.

Tidbits:

1. I want to draw your attention to Jenny's Line Dried Challenge 2009, which I think is a fabulous idea. I'm all for promoting a more natural and planet-friendly way of living.

2. My friend Gabrielle has inspired me to participate in two really fun summer challenges: The first is Shrinking Days of Summer

And next is this lovely Jam Swap, which is more like a "jam blog" than a swap (which is far easier than mailing each other jars of jam!). If you're planning to make jam this summer and feel like blogging about it, then join us!

And last, but not least- I want to say a GREAT BIG THANK YOU to TexasWren, who sent me the most darling prize from the Sew, Mama, Sew contest. She filled the box to the brim with goodies! I am so very thankful for all of the time she put into make all of these delightful presents. I am already sleeping on my lovely new pillowcases (do pillowcases make your dreams sweeter? I think so!), as well as enjoying the lovely homegrown rosemary, the handmade keychain, bookmark, and the sweetest little good luck charm that I've hung in the hallway near my kitchen- and it makes me smile every time I pass by. And a few fabric goodies, too! It was such a lovely surprise to receive it, and I'm so very grateful.

Come back this afternoon for my latest thrifty tip :)

~marie

Clothespin "Dress" Bag Giveaway! - Contest Closed

The sun is shining today... it's been weeks since we've had a dry sunny day. What a perfect day to celebrate a giveaway!

I've listed three different clothespin bags in my Etsy shop, and I hope you'll stop by and visit (two of the three are made with vintage fabrics!). But lucky you... to celebrate that I *finally* put something new in my shop, I'm giving one away!

By leaving a comment to this post you can have a chance to win this sweet little Clothespin Dress Bag; either to use for your clothespins and hanging clothes out in the sunshine on the clothesline, or else as a multipurpose bag for storing other knick-knacks in a pretty way (like spools of thread, or fabric softener sheets, or whatever strikes your fancy!). In your comment, tell me if you've ever used a clothesline before, or if you have a memory of hanging clothes on the line from childhood.

This bag that you can win (pictured above) was made from a vintage pillowcase, which means it's one-of-a-kind!

And on that note of hanging clothes on the line, I'd love to challenge you to hang out at least one load a week if you can this summer. It will save you oodles on your electric bill, and our planet will love you for it! (And have you ever slept on sheets that have been dried in the sun? It's dreamy!)

~marie

Little Adjustments.... & Giveaway!

Oh my goodness... the stamp came. I love it! This is for the tags for my Etsy items, and I'm so excited to start using it! (Sorry for the rampant enthusiasm, but truly- this is my favoritest thing ever!)

Today I just wanted to draw your attention to a few little tweaks here at PTU.

1. Leaving a comment here at PTU just got easier! I removed the word verification to make it faster and easier (because honestly, aren't those word verifications the pits?). This makes it quicker for you, and I've opted to just moderate comments instead :) Yay!

2. I condensed the Sock-a-Long into one pdf file -so much easier- that you can download in the sidebar. (Look under the Knitty Bitties tab.)

3. I uploaded the Rugged Camper Cookset as a pdf file (also in the sidebar) for those who don't want to sign up for an account at FaveCrafts . You can just download it and start knitting!

4. I'm putting a couple of cute things in my Etsy shop on Friday (tomorrow) and I wanted to celebrate by doing a giveaway! Come back for tomorrow's post and leave a comment for your chance to win! (I'm not tell you yet what the prize is... it's a secret!)

That's all for today folks! Just a few tiny updates. We're having yet another day of torrential rain here, which means it's a good day for knitting. Then again... every day is a good day for knitting, right?

~marie

A Lovely Little Stamp

Isn't that the stinking cutest stamp you ever saw in your whole entire life? It's pretty much the cutest. I won this little darling (the Marie-Jolie stamp) during the Sew Mama Sew Giveaway Day contest, and I'm itching to receive it (it's still in the Netherlands at the moment). You can find the talented carver of these stamps right here at vlitig. How could you even resist such a sweet little token? We should all have our very own, don't you think?

~marie

Fun, Stinky & Tasty

Fun:
Working my little fingers to the bone on a crazy deluge of creative projects.

Stinky:
Having to keep secrets about what I'm working on, because they are for THE book (which is now the BOOKS, since there are two in progress... what am I, psycho?). It's really really hard for me not to tell you, which is why you only get wee peeks instead of full photos. Phooey. Is it mean of me to tease you like that? I am the world's WORST secret keeper (unless the secret is important, but if the secret is about what I'm giving you for Christmas... just be prepared that I will probably spill the beans).

Tasty:

These veggie burgers that we LOVE at my house. Have I already shared this recipe? I was just thinking how yummy these are, and that I should share the love.

Black Bean Burgers

1 15oz can black beans, drain & rinse
1 sm can green chilies
1 c. dried bread crumbs (I use ground oats, because we can't use gluten)
1 egg (or equivalent flax egg mixture)
1 Tbsp chili powder- or to taste
2 tsp cumin- a couple of shakes
Small handful fresh cilantro, minced
I add a shake of chipotle seasoning (chipotle is the king of spices, IMHO)
1/2 tsp salt
2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
cornmeal
lettuce, tomatoes, onions, Vegenaise (or mayo)

Combine beans, green chilies, garlic, cilantro, spices, and egg or flax "eggs" in food processor. Stir in bread crumbs or ground oats by hand. Form into patties and dip in cornmeal on both sides. Fry on a griddle in just a bit of oil on both sides for about ten minutes per side. I let them sit until nice and browned. We eat these on buns with lettuce, tomatoes and onions. Or they are great by themselves!

That's your Fun, Stinky & Tasty update for today!

~marie

3 Random Things I Learned Last Week

1. Never, and I repeat NEVER, attempt to use brass grommets on a knitted item. This action results in giant holes being "punched" right through the yarn, and major repairs are then necessary. Let me spare you the headache, lest you are ever dumb enough to try this (like some people I know, *ahem*). Contrary to popular belief, grommets will not neatly work themselves in between the stitches. FYI.2. Toilet Cleaning Gel is a fabulous revelation for people with teenage boys. The toilet smells fresh ALL the time. Glory be! You do have to be clever enough to figure out how to use it, but otherwise- it's brilliant!

3. Sometimes you just need a break. Last week I got stuck in a creative rut, and after butting my head up against the wall of creative flow, I finally stepped out of the box and took a break. Instead of writing, working on my book proposal, or even knitting... I borrowed my Mom's sewing machine and stitched for a few days (as my sewing machine is still broken). It's amazing what a little change of pace can do. I came back to my other projects with gusto (but then I tried out the whole grommet wizardry and ended up with a big fat hole in my knitting project... so a creative break doesn't solve utter stupidity, but it can help get you out of a rut).

What did YOU learn last week?

~marie

Nifty Thrifty: Make a Suet Feeder for the Birds

I'm a bird lover. Let's just say that right up front.

We're always looking for new ways to attract birds into our yard, and what better way to bring a new variety of birds than to offer a new variety of food? My good friend and expert birder Gloria taught me about making my own suet, and today I'm offering up a recipe for vegetarian suet that you can try at home.

As for how to present this delightful kitchen creation, suet feeders run anywhere from $8-$50 depending on how ornate they are. I found this perfect little mesh wire basket at the thrift store for $1 (which was fairly overpriced in my opinion, but still cheaper than buying a suet feeder). I merely lined my feeder basket with plastic wrap and poured the slightly warm (but not hot... I let it cool a bit before I did this) mixture into the plastic wrap and then let it finish cooling in the fridge. The high quantity of fats in this mixture make it harden nicely. I let it cool overnight and then removed the plastic wrap, returned the suet to my feeder basket, added twine and hung it in my favorite tree!

Vegetarian Suet for Birds

1lb vegetable shortening
1 cup crunchy peanut butter
2 cups rolled oats
2 cups cornmeal
1 cup flour
1/3 cup sugar

1. Melt the peanut butter and shortening over low heat (they melt very quickly). Turn off the heat.

2. Add remaining ingredients to the pan.

3. Spoon into your molds. (Remember that I lined my mold with plastic wrap, and so I let the mixture cool for about an hour before I poured it into the mold.)

4. Refrigerate until firm.

My little basket mold used only about half of the mixture, so I am keeping the remainder in the refrigerator until it's needed.

Another great mold for suet is to use an old small log. Drill large holes in several places on the log (about 1" deep), and fill the holes with your suet. Hang the log from a tree branch, and voila! Cheaper than cheap! (Or cheaper than cheep?)

I have more cute things to show you soon...

~marie-jolie

Much Ado About Something

Wow... a few days without blogging. It's just plain weird. I'm trying to get used to the idea but I fear that getting out of the blogging habit will just result in finding it harder to blog when the time actually comes. I have several fun projects to share with you, but I'm a little bit behind on whipping everything up to make it blog-ready, so I will post again tomorrow (I promise) and I'll share a great Nifty Thrifty project for your favorite birds, as well as another little tidbit that I've been working on. Come back tomorrow and see, ok?

I have been quite a lucky girl this last week, with FOUR Giveaway Day prizes won, and another from a totally different blog contest, resulting in FIVE wins in one week. I'm thinking I ought to start entering every contest I can get my hands on, seeing that I'm on a winning streak and all. :) Not all of my spoils have arrived just yet, so I thought I'd shower cyberspace with gratitude as they come my way.

First, I want to say merci beaucoup to Claire from Panhandler for the lovely Spring Cherries Apron (photo at top) that I won on her Giveaway Day contest. She also sent me a darling little handmade tissue holder. The cutest! The apron fits perfectly, and it's oh-so-cheerful. Don't you think?

Next, I say merci beaucoup to Britt from Sneezerville who sent me the lovely knitter's grab bag with three skeins of scrumptious yarn, and a copy of the book Domiknitrix. How fun to win a prize from one of my very own blog readers! That takes the cake!

More tomorrow....
~marie-jolie

Knit: Quick Father's Day Cook Set

Today I wanted to share a new project I designed for the feature over at FaveCrafts that I've been hinting about for a few weeks. It's free to join FaveCrafts, and you can access hundreds of free crafty projects and patterns of all kinds- including this great one of mine! They have my project featured today on their blog, as well as on the website.

Or if you'd like to, you can download the project directly from my site here.

~marie-jolie

Rainy Day

Rainy day, happy day.

When's the last time you stood outside in the rain?

~marie-jolie

p.s. I added watermarks only to keep from having my images used elsewhere on the internet. I am noticing that this is happening often. Sorry if it seems pretentious, as that would be an entirely foreign thing coming from me (the down-to-earth dorky hermit girl) :)

Quick Summer Drink: Iced Cocoa

Our family loves hot chocolate. For years we used the excuse of even a slightly cool summer evening to have a cup of cocoa, so as not to limit our favorite beverage to winter only. Then one day the heavens parted and we discovered Iced Cocoa!

I knew there must be a reason that hot chocolate mix stays on the store shelves all year. Sneaky little buggers!

So when you've had more than your share of pink lemonade, give this refreshing and yummy drink a try...

Iced Cocoa

Ingredients:

• 20 ounces of cold water

• 1 heaping cup of hot chocolate mix (you can make your own like this tasty recipe or use the regular kind from the store)

• Several handfuls of ice

Blend on high speed in your blender until ice is crushed and mixture is frothy on top. Pour into tall glasses and add extra ice and enjoy!

Stay tuned tomorrow for a great Father's Day knitting project!

~marie-jolie

p.s. Did you notice the new feature "What's New" in the side bar? If you don't visit every day, that's a good spot to see the highlights of recent posts. The "What's New" section is updated every few days with the latest and greatest, so if you're in a pinch for time, be sure to look there first. :)