Phineas and Lou

Here we go!!

2010-08-22T15:56:00.000-07:00

Hey friends!! I have a new blog! I'll be changing Phineas and Lou to show more of my art, which I think I will eventually sell (or show as the case may be) in that shop. I've stopped knitting/crocheting as much since my hands were in bad shape with pain and numbness at times and for all that, it is slow to sell. I really want to work from home so I had to keep on moving. Each time I get a little closer to where I'm going I think :)

I started a new blog called Sexy Moments based on a mini-book I wrote some years ago. The blog link is "Sexay Moments" because it's not available though there isn't blog by that name...grrr!! Anyhow, It goes with a new shop that I'll be launching soon...a whole new direction...turning the giant ship...fun will be had!

*Love and evolving hugs*

Jen

Bits and pieces

2010-08-16T13:29:00.001-07:00

Bits and pieces

Originally uploaded by Jennifer4now

Please click to see the non-blurry version of this painting :/ I hurt my back this weekend so I'm hobbling around, but happy otherwise. How are you?

Being bigger...bigger being

2010-08-12T10:36:00.001-07:00

edited, originally uploaded by Jennifer4now.

Part of this says...
....Abandoning, abandoned,

abandon

Letting go

Clinging to life

I'm turning a humongous ship around and determined to have fun!!

I'm here...

2010-08-11T12:36:00.000-07:00

Oh man! I have to apologize for sort of vanishing. It's been hard to be here. But I'm here and I'm about neck deep into some sorta something and so I'm trying to take good care of myself. I'll be bouncing around to check out how everyone is doing soon :)

The Flood

2010-07-19T15:55:00.000-07:00

In the middle of a new project...

Whew, it's been rough to muster up whatever it takes to write something. Sometimes the flood of self-doubt comes rushing in a nothing feels good enough. My hermit tendencies kick in strong and I just want to hide or I feel like I've been so exposed that I need to retreat a while. It would be simple if I would then just chill, but it's the standards I set. It's the expectations I have of myself that I impose on others and then I think I failed them.

The mind is a tricky beautiful place. I'm working to break down my obligations into smaller bites. To stop believing that there are things ~ simple things that I can't do because for whatever reason I fear not doing them perfectly. I get so overwhelmed. Even with this...even with the flood, I feel better now than I ever have because I understand now. I understand when the anxiety comes and the fears get too big to handle, that I'm just trying too hard to be whatever it is I think I'm supposed to be. I understand now that I've just taken too big a bite and that I need to make things smaller. I understand that it's worth it to move forward because standing still would look very much the same. I understand that the flood will pass and yep, every little thing is gonna be alright :)

*love and gentle, understanding hugs* I'll get back when I can :)

Jen

Whew!

2010-07-09T17:38:00.000-07:00

Oh gosh, I'm not sure why I screeched out "peace", but it's done now :/ I'm thinking of doing outtakes on Fridays, but I'll have to censor some of them for language. I get a little saucy when it takes me like 5 tries to get it right enough to put out there, ha!

Have a wonderful weekend great people.

*love and screechy hugs*

Jen

I love my hair!

2010-06-29T02:36:00.000-07:00

Oh gosh, this feels like a real "me-fest" but please indulge me for just a second :) So I have been bursting to talk about my hair and this article on Mom's of Hue was just the motivation I needed to finally do it. I wrote out the story, it's an important story, but for now forget the story. We all have baggage right? So in simplest terms and giving no power to past societal or personal foolishness:

I love it big and free...so true to my heart and spirit.

(Back in the day I wanted gorgeous hair like my mom and all those ladies on Dynasty, lol!)

I love that it is so versatile and springy. Somehow it is my contribution the the lovely tapestry that is us in this world.

(Why yes, that is my hair collage up there.)

I love that my hair whirls and curls like a fine work of art and that when I feel funky...my hair can go there.

I love how my hair looks in hats.

As I've come to know and love my hair with it's possibilities and limitations, I feel so dangerously sexy. It isn't about perfect hair days or getting attention...It's something I don't have words for yet. I feel strong, powerful, lovely, and vulnerable all at the same time (OK, maybe I have a few words).

I love my hair!

*love and love our hair hugs*

Jen

Is it too cheap to use Happy Monday as a title???

2010-06-28T06:28:00.000-07:00

Helloooo! Apparently my photobooth is still a bit off :( Anyhow, I meant to say I hope that is going well with you, not just going or however I said it, lol! I'm also a little distressed that I said this is "Jenniferrrrr". I think I channeled the valley-speak that I learned from watching too many episodes of Square Pegs (a show that really needs to be brought back...if Barney Miller is back then I need some Square Pegs back in my life.) OK, I didn't know I was going to have a mini meltdown...sorry about that :) Have a happy Monday guys!!

Here's the article I mentioned with Team Bacon you should check out the whole blog. Lots of funny, quirky people and killer stuff in their Etsy shops!

*love and sage hugs*

Jen

Fun stuffs!

2010-06-23T13:51:00.000-07:00

Hey guys! Just reporting some fun goings on...

First, the mister has a new blog to showcase his awesomeness. He's a little more shy than I so I don't know that he'll be making appearances, but I am so excited for him. Check him out on L. Brown

I also made a fun Ployvore collection:

Go with it by phineasandlou

I love the cool tank tops...I want them a whole lot! Anyhow, I just love sharing my wild style. Polyvore is great for getting the design inspiration going!

I hope Wednesday's treating you well. My wasn't half bad :)

*lots of love and hugs to match*

Jen

The Tunnel

2010-06-22T10:13:00.000-07:00

I was thinking about stuff and how hard times hit everybody in one way or another...and maybe why...

I didn't figure out why, but I did figure out what everyone already knows. We're all just human and sometimes life is really like a dark tunnel and all you can do is move through it. It's funny how when it's dark, it seems like all things are still, but the truth is, if you're moving, your moving and the nice thing about tunnels is that they tend to take you to the other side and not in a circle back to where you started (based on my extreeeemly limited knowledge of tunnels)!

When I knit it's sort of like practice for life's tunnels. There's often a point of pure, clear uncertainty. My hands get tired, my mind thinks of the next project, I make one false move and have to undo a whole row (or five) to fix it. It isn't because I wasn't careful enough (ok, sometimes), smart enough, creative enough...on and on...it's just the tunnel and I'm just human.

The project up there (sorry about the bad shot) isn't done yet. I'm still fully immersed in the tunnel on this one, but soon, my friends, and argyle something or other...nope not tellin'...will appear!

Happy Tuesday :)

*love and huge hugs*
Jen

A moment of wild inspiration

2010-06-16T09:19:00.000-07:00

Two weeks (or so) ago, I just *had* to knit some shorts. It was in my bones so I had to honor the creative spirit...
Sometimes inspiration is like wild friend who thinks you should dye your hair red..."Yeah you should do it!!" But then, when you've got the color in your hair and 10 minutes have passed, you realize that good idea or not...it's all yours now, ha!
Then committment kicks in...knit, purl, knit, purl, switch colors...several hours and 5" in, only 2" more to go...I can do this...and things start to take shape. Suddenly, "Why did I think this was a good idea" gives way to..."I really do rock, don't I?" Thanks inspiration!

Then suddenly, whatever inspiration planted in your bones becomes something you can touch and feel and you try to find just the right light so that the picture tells the whole truth.

I hope you like my shorts :) I'm so proud of them!

What have you been inspired to create lately? Tell me, tell me :)

*love and giant inspiration-filled hugs*

Jen

Dip baby, Dip!

2010-06-12T16:59:00.001-07:00

Guacamole, originally uploaded by Jennifer4now.

We had an impromptu cook out/family and friendfest today!I I was commissioned to make the guacamole and cole slaw. I'm not as passionate about slaw so I put it together quickly to get it over with, but the guac... I think I could live off of dips. I love making them fresh and lately, I've added cayenne pepper to everything. I love the fire!

Making a good dip, to me, requires such a balance because I like mine that perfect somewhere between chunky and smooth. The garlic and onion have a little wiggle room, but not much, the lemon/lime juice needs to be just right and the pinch of seasonings has to be felt, it's nothing a spoon can really capture. Ahhhh, I love my dip baby dip!

Remember this song from the 90's? It was a staple at parties, though I've never been to good at executing dance crazes, lol!

Happy Saturday :)

*love and dippy hugs*
Jen

Sun hat

2010-06-11T11:52:00.001-07:00

Sun hat
Originally uploaded by Jennifer4now

*Sigh* I made it to Friday and kicked the be-hind of a huge project that needed completion...OK, maybe it wasn't that *huge* as projects go, but for a while, it had me in a choke hold :-)

Soooo, how do you like the sun hat? (See Kim, I'm still in summer mode, lol!) I actually made it for a coworker. I was dying to make a sunhat and for a cloche-style pattern and then creative energies came together with google to produce this pattern! Thank you so much to the woman who put this out there. I used recycled cotton yarn, which I think is perfect for this!

I'm thinking of making a knit pattern so I can knit some mittens to match for fall...oops, me and that "f" word!

Have a great Friday good people :)

*love and sun hatty hugs*
Jen

This much is true

2010-06-08T07:55:00.001-07:00

3
Originally uploaded by Jennifer4now

My new mantra...

It's not about
perfection
it's about
balance.

It's not about
perfection
it's about
health.

It's not about
perfection
it's about
authenticity.

...and so on...It's flexible depending on what I'm in a tizzy about :)

I had a video, but the sound came out too slow and wasn't matching my movements...it never pays to be in a hurry (don't tell my dad I admitted that, OK?)

I wanted to link to Spandau Ballet's version of This Much is True, but apparently they aren't having that embedding stuff so feel free to click for optimal 80's entertainment and marvel at the lead singer's ability to move around in those leather pants...geez!

I hope all is well and I'll try to get a new vid up soon.

*love and hugs*
Jen

Good

2010-06-04T17:00:00.001-07:00

Little fro ~ cross processed
Originally uploaded by Jennifer4now

I had such a good time learning cool stuff for the day job. The conference was in Orlando, FL...pics of palm trees to come soon :) While I was there and sleepless (soft beds, but just not home) I took pictures of my hair in different looks. Here's one right after washing at like midnight and just before twisting. I think it looks pretty good :) The shot is blurry, but I like the feeling. I'm having fun figuring out all I can do with the do :) Fun is gooood!

It's so good to be back! I'm off to see what you in blog world have been up too.

*lurve and good hugs*
Jen

(Did you catch the theme of this post, lol!)

All at once

2010-05-29T19:04:00.000-07:00

It's a rare Saturday post for me, but I think I'll be too tied up with a work conference till the end of the week to post later. Anywho, recently Etsy posted an article about getting Denise Huxtable's style which was so awesome because this is a part of my design direction for the fall. YAY!!

Photo grabbed from a google search.

I think Denise's style embodies what I value and what I feel right now: an interesting concoction of vulnerability and strength.

At any given moment in time, I balance being a full time mom, wife, daughter, sister, and career person. In the significant spaces between I am an entrepreneur, friend, and just me. Each of my roles has a subset of responsibilities (a job description if you will) and require me to be fully present in order for me to feel that I've done them well. Of course I fall short more times than I'd like. I like to get things "right".

Somehow, when I knit or create a piece in other media...I feel like all is right with the world. In some amazing way, the coming together of fiber and colors speaks a truth that isn't, for me, something that can ever be written accurately. Truth that can be written accurately? I'm tired. I'm exhausted really, but what happens if I stop? If I stop, I stop.

I'm excited about this fall and what's to come in my work. I can't wait to share!! *I know that reads like a huge leap, but if we were talking, I would have sighed, taken a deep breath as I thought a few things through, and then you'd see that I came to a little bit of resolution that led me to excitement, ha!)

OK, another really long post, sorry! I'll try to update this week, otherwise later gators! (I heard a guy with a tattoo on his very muscular bicep say that today.)

*love and ginormous hugs*

Jen

Successing

2010-05-26T06:50:00.000-07:00

Happy Wednesday!! What a wild ride these last few weeks *whew* I did wanna share that smoothie recipe and good news that I've lost about 6 and a half lbs so far...7 is guaranteed by the end of the week so I'll tell you how I'm doing that too :)

So the recipe is this: 1c Ice, 1/2c plain soy milk, 1 tbs (or a little less) semi-sweet choc chips, 1 tsp pb, 1 banana, cinnamon till you're happy, blend. It is soooo good. I call it a fauxcha latte (c), (fake mocha latte) lol!! It tastes like an iced coffee drink.

**OK, with the lb situation, I've been torn on sharing because I'm all about loving the bod and I don't want to contribute to negativity in that area. It isn't about becoming someone else, but being healthy and comfy in my skin, right? So I decided to go slow, starting with the diary for one month (that wasn't easy and I got a little off on some days). I try to exercise at least 3 times a week through walking and going to the gym at work (jogging just isn't happening right now). At the end of the first month, I had lost about 5 lbs!

About 2 weeks in to this, I made a real drasticish change in that I started eating small servings every two hours starting from the point that I eat breakfast. So as an example, if I have a smoothie at 8a, I'll have about 6 rice crackers (usually) and a slice of cheese at 10a, at noon I'll have a few more crackers (like 10) with hummus and a fiber one bar or something sweet if I want it, at 2p, I'll have an apple or whatever is left in my bag (like dried cranberries or raisins), then I wait till I get home for dinner and eat whatever we decide (I try to watch the portions, but didn't cut anything out, though I do avoid things that don't make me feel good). I drink water for the most part. Oh, and I actually like this stuff I'm eating. I choose everything based on what I want to eat.

I've noticed that the end of the day is where I get punchy so I try to remember another fruit or something because if I don't I get home and graze!! I'm also now doing this on the weekends. I didn't before because it's harder to schedule, but I'm ready to adjust now. I hate writing super long posts so I'll share more later....there is lots more. I hope this is helpful to anyone interested!! It's tough...not the habit changing (that's why I chose to go slow), but because I feel great and am ready to leap into my goal, but it takes TIME!! I don't look a whole lot different. My clothes do fit a little better and my face shows it, but that's all right now. I've come to be cool with that, finally :) OK, done for real!

*love and super huge hugs*

Jen

**This isn't adivce!! I am not an expert, just sharing what I'm doing.

Unlocked

2010-05-18T12:26:00.000-07:00

ROAR!!! Momma lion has been busy and I think I've found what my little guy needs. It's been hell....pure hell when it comes to math in a lot of ways, but I think I've unlocked what's happening. I'll update when I know for sure.

I'm happy to announce that my creativity has been unlocked and I made a new hat...yay!!! I knew if I'd just wait, it would come...and now, again, I have too many ideas and not enough time.
There was a third thing, but I don't remember, lol! I am listening to Billy Joel...Always a Woman. It's so interesting hearing him as a younger guy versus a more recent version (yes, I listened to both to compare)...you can hear the passion. I think time unlocks
passion...what do you think? Oh yay, three unlocked things!

Happy Tuesday and I have a smoothie recipe to share soon!

*love and hugs*

Jen

Away, always, aw ay (just kidding about that last one, I just like things in 3s)

2010-05-16T19:51:00.000-07:00

I've been away for just over a week, but it feels like years! I have been working on undoing this hair and almost done...the process landed me in the emergency with numbness that eventually spread to most of my body. It wasn't actually numbe so much as I could perceive the feelings I was feeling...make sense? Turns out that I was messing with some important stuff by having my hands up for so many hours over 4 weeks. I'm fine now though. I have a new respect of every little part of this body.

I plan on possibly being away a little longer because I need to read more about making my business a business that can help my family. I've had to be momma lion for my little one @school and if I can, at minimum, work part time to be there for him, then I need to use what I have to make that happen. I want to homeschool if possible. He needs me (more on that later).

And now enjoy one of my all time and forever favs...Always a Woman! *love and hugs* Jen

Rupert Holmes Escape Pina Colada

2010-05-07T14:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday! It's been such a busy day... *whew*

Being there

2010-05-04T06:35:00.000-07:00

Where I am..."showing up" as I've heard it said.
I have learned that it is fully possible to arrive to a place
and never be there.
Living day to day hoping for something different
losing what is.
It's a trick of the mind to believe that change comes
in a new day
when the heart and soul of the hoper (yes I made that up) remain the same.
It's not worth believing that today, no matter how hard, is not good.
I sigh and move
slow, slower, and slower still.
Climb.
Bathe in the sun.
Play in the rain.
Cry.
Whole.

OK, I can't focus on just business or just me or just anything! I try hard to be what I should, but I guess I'm just who I am...and I'm 35 now!! I had a good birthday, thanks Mish!

*love and hugs* Jen

In progress

2010-04-29T13:38:00.001-07:00

Things have slowed a bit so I'm on a streak here right? It's been a while since I painted, but when the mister had to get up for work at 3:30 am I couldn't get back to sleep. This image was swirling around my brain and demanding life...so here it is! I'm not sure if I'm done, though one awesome flick contact person says that I am :-)

I feel like sleeping as I type! Thanks to you guys for letting me vent about blogging...to blog or not to blog...that isn't the question though. I think the real question is feeling valuable. Oh that's another post for another day!

*love and hugs*
Jen!

Slow, slow, slow

2010-04-28T09:54:00.001-07:00

I need to go slower. It's just true :-) I feel like I am emerging from a two and a half week depressionish thing brought on by moving too fast. I love knowing myself because I was able to recognize it and gently get through it by focusing on love and rest. I'm still not sure about blogging. I definitely need a break, but then I use it to express and reflect so then I feel like I'm losing an outlet. I also feel like I'd lose connections to great people and inspiration. What is it supposed to be???? I guess what I make it. I think I make it out to be more than it has to be. Maybe that's the thing...stop looking for the "supposed to" and just enjoy...the story of my life! I'll figure it out...or at least keep blogging about figuring it out, lol!

In other news, I've been combing out my locs (dreads) because I'm ready to move on. I've been planning this for a few months...reading about styling natural African American hair in terms of products and options. After a week and a half, I'm about half way through and I anticipate it will be like two weeks more unless I really kick behind this weekend. It's tough because I have to keep a professional look during the day, so I have to take it slow. Ah, there that slow word goes again. Anyhow it's been fun and it feels really good. I am anxious about the reveal!

Last but not least, I stepped out of a box today. I am shy(ish) by nature. I used to be able to approach people and talk lots, but it was an act. As I get older, I don't have the energy for it and I ended up feeling like a little turtle in a safe, warm shell, ahhh...oh, yeah this is about getting out of that... So anyhow, today I approached a student I worked with and asked how everything was going. Turns out after we worked together, he got an internship in the field he wanted and has another this summer. Score!! He was also jazzed that I remembered him and seemed to really perk up. It does feel good to know people are in your corner, right? Double score!!

OK, I've chatted your eyes off. I'm going to take this slow. I'll try to peak in on my birthday Friday. *love and hugs* :)

And what do you say...?

2010-04-26T20:38:00.000-07:00

Hey guys I'm still here!! I've just been really overwhelmed these days. I need to figure this out...do I blog do I not? I think I need a break...a long long break!

In really happy news, I lost 5 lbs!! The writing (though I really failed through a hectic week last week) really works. Even with messing up last week (in writing not eating) I felt motivated not to repeat the bad habits of the week before. I haven't cut anything out, but I did cut back and got a little more balanced.

OK, I need some sleep! I just wanted to check in and maybe say see you later.

*love and hugs*

Jen

Real Wisdom

2010-04-19T13:44:00.000-07:00

This is my favorite little spot in our house!

I heard this quote recently: The only real wisdom is knowing you know nothing. ~ Socrates.

Recently I have been made aware, time and time again lately that I know nothing. That behind whatever I put out there to the "world", I'm really afraid, unsure, working really hard and often times accomplishing little, while at the same time neglecting the obviously important. I'm beginning to realize that saying "I don't know" and asking for help...even saying "I don't care" when things or foolish people don't deserve my mental energy...are among the most brave and wise things I have ever done.

Happy Monday and I am *so* sorry for beng a crappy blog companion. I'll be visiting this evening.

Dear Diary...

2010-04-15T10:47:00.001-07:00

Hey all! It's been quite a busy week!! I hope all is cool with you :-) In my world, I started a diary to record what I eat. (Do you see my terrible handwriting???) I've heard this was effective, but I wanted no parts of seeming like I needed help, I was out of control, too weak to just do things on my own, being too focused on food *eye rolls, what was I thinking*...See I appreciate the organic and effortless and I have this Super Woman thing goin' on...anywho, I started on Saturday and I highly recommend it. I do have a few rules: 1) no judging. This diary isn't for me to beat myself up, it's to learn and adjust. 2) I need a pen that I like writing with. 3) Write down what I eat after I eat it, not at the end of the day. I want to capture the moment and be aware of my internal stuff in that moment.

The reason I did it is because I couldn't figure out what the heck wasn't working so I wanted to be more conscious of what I am eating including the little tastes of popcorn when I make a snack for the kid, since sometimes what I thought was a little taste turns out to be more like a full serving before I realize it. Let me tell you, I'm learning a lot! I'll keep you updated on how things go, but I have seen a big change in my habits so far. I realized that I do need help, which is fine. Who doesn't need help with something!?!? I've cut down the amount of not great for me stuff simply because I don't want to write down that I ate 5 chocolates, lol! I gave myself control by deciding what I eat and when instead of being at the whim of the food around me and interestingly, I feel less focused on food partially because I just feel more in control overall.

This is just the beginning though. I'm committed to this for a month at least, even if I feel like I have it figured out. I'll check in at least once a week. I think that's good for keeping me accountable and on track!

Have a great Thursday y'all! *love and hugs* Jen

It sure is Monday!

2010-04-12T11:06:00.000-07:00

It sure is...

I hope you all had a great weekend!

*love and hugs* Jen :)

You Skinny Niche! Part 2: Finding the sweet spot

2010-04-09T08:23:00.000-07:00

I had a couple of people express interest in finding their niche after my first skinny niche post, yay! To me, finding your niche is more like finding that sweet spot where what's inside matches what you put out as much as possible. It isn't just about your art or product, it's about the images you use, descriptions, everything. So let's get to it and enjoy the amazing shops who I think have found the sweet spot (click on the images or shop names to visit)!

sustainable wallet by rikrak

Some people are fortunate to just know what their focus is. Others are fortunate to have multiple abilities and passions or be what some called "multipotentialed". Whichever fits you best, I think a few questions can help guide you in your right direction:

Ballerina Girl Dress by whitejupiterdreams

Who am I? This is so important because almost all of the good marketing advice you get will tell you that you can't be all things to all people and that's ok. It's worth it to ask and reask this question. As it becomes clearer imagine the weight of trying to please everyone roll off, while your actual audience cheers you on! Check out olivebites, not only does she give kick butt adivce, but I feel like she really is who she is and I appreciate that!

Candy Earrings (I'm wearing these now, well not *these*, but you know...) by hollygems

What am I trying to communicate? Does what I make and how I present it feel consistent with that? If not keep tweaking. My friend Carolyn has a wonderful blog that shows the work she's putting in to getting her photography where she wants it. (I happen to think it's already amazing and needs no improvement.) I love reading her blog to be inspired to not to give up!

Who are my favorites? Check out your favorites online, magazines, wherever...what are you drawn to? What does your favorites say about you? You don't have to emulate them, but they can give you cluse as to what you value and how to project your unique voice. I strongly suggest you spend a lot of time reading Etsy Success. In the Business section of the forums and the Storque blog, you'll find a crazy amount of helpful info.

OK good people! I hope this is helpful to you! I've had fun :)

Have a great weekend! *love and niche-y hugs* Jen

I think I was a blow fish in my former life...

2010-04-06T07:12:00.000-07:00

I really do, because whatever I eat makes me get all puffy! Hello 35 and trying to shed a few :) I have to laugh. I had this goal of losing 12 lbs by my birthday (4/30, whooo hooo), but as I creep up on that date, I have only lost 3 and struggle to keep them off. The struggle is in my head as much as me belly.

I haven't quit though. I run and walk and think and re-think my strategy. Yesterday as I was running, though, it felt like I was in a huge fight with my whole body, my self asked me..."Why are you running?" I thought, hmmmm, I guess I'm not running to punish myself for not being a skinny mini. I'm not running just to shed a few either because it will return if I quit...I run because it makes me feel amazing. It clears my head. My body seems to enjoy it more than any other thing I could do...I'm running because I love to.

I have to remember this...do what you love and the results will come, right? It is part discipline, yeah, but I love feeling good, I love eating well, so if I just keep doing what I love and kill the bad habits that I don't love (but am attached to)...the results (not skinny mini - that just isn't my body type - but healthy happy) will come!

Happiness!

2010-04-02T11:03:00.000-07:00

Hey guys! So much for updating more often on this vacation, lol! It's been a fun busy week. I hope you love the Happy Family t-shirt. We do :) Christian has really been wanting mail over the past few weeks, so this was a very fun experience for him to get a little package with his name typed on it and everything!

I keep thinking that I wanted to tell you something else. It'll come to me at some random time. Anyhow...

Have a great weekend friends :)

*love and hugs*
Jen

Greek Yogurt: Pleasure and Angst

2010-03-30T15:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Tuesday! I put the chicken breast in the microwave to thaw so all is well here :0) I don't think you can hear Christian that well. He was introducing Bessie and Racer X.

Thanks again for all who hoped with me that my hubs would get the job. It means a lot to us.

See you tomorrow!

P.S. The vis should work even thought it's just a black box. I'm not sure why that's happened.

*love and hugs* Jen

Ramble, ramble, ramble...

2010-03-25T07:54:00.000-07:00

It's been a little while...seems like forever, but I missed blogging this week or so :)

I have great news that I am the proud auntie of a little boy named Price (family last name, now his first name). Price is a 35 week premie so he's getting all sorts of love and care till he can come home. He is so darned cute, but my sister says no on internet pics and she's a lawyer so I'm not messing around with that :0)

In other news, I won a contest on Tea and Honeybread, I was featured on the Tipsy Laundry Blog, *and* I made new mitts (me above...cheeeese)! Each of these gave me a such a boost on an otherwise tough week.

FYI, I'm so in love with knitting I could burst!! I wish my hands could move as fast as my ideas :( Oh well!!

I hope all is well with you! Let me know what's happening!!

*love and gigantic hugs* Jen

Mais oui Monsieur

2010-03-16T10:01:00.000-07:00

Last year I made a green one of these for someone's nephew and my son insisted on having one of his own. He looks very French to me (or like Magnum P.I., lol!) Anyhow, the kid and his buddies were pulling the apple out and pretending that it was the apple guy's brain that he was eating...ew, but ok if it gets him to eat his apples!

One of his friends really loved it and has been asking me for months to make him one. I kept saying ok, but this weekend I finally finished! After months of the highest pitched "When am I gonna get my apple holderrrrr" that I ever heard, the goods were delivered. Word from the kid (my son) was that his buddy was really happy! Apparently he said "Yay!" Success :)

OK, I gotta get moving. I'm sneezing up a storm thanks to a spring transition cold. Must get well because Thursday's a big day!! I'll fill you in :)

*love and hugs* Jen

You skinny niche!

2010-03-15T07:52:00.000-07:00

Sorry, I couldn't help it! On the self-improvement front, I've been working on losing a few pounds and making my business what I dream, hence the title!

Homemade cupcakes by yours truly! (Don't judge me since I did say I was dropping pounds, lol!)

I was thinking about why it's good to choose a niche, at least when starting out. (My husband saying it for like a year didn't hurt!) I hope this is helpful if you're like me and love/are pretty good at doing a bit of everything and want to see your creative business grow:

1) It's economical. Imagine you have $100 to spend on supplies. That cash in a more focused shop could go a long way toward more supplies to build your inventory. In a more scattered shop, bits go here and there, but overall you have less options for a potential buyer of a certain item.

2) A niche gives you a chance to be known for and even a trusted expert in something. From whom do you buy your socks, house paint, or favorite ethnic food? My guess is that for each item it's someplace different (imagine buying socks, paint, and perfect samosas in the same place...)

3) A niche isn't a prison sentence. Within each niche there is a huge range of possibilities. Maybe you paint and sell your originals, you might also add prints, magnets and other objects featuring your art or style...I'd say that that falls into your niche...since I said it, it's so :-D

4) Not to get all yoga-y or anything (though I do love yoga) Before you pounce on the next thing that looks so fun to do, breathe and quiet yourself. Check in with your core to make sure that it's something that really feels right and something you won't regret putting out there as a product offering. There's nothing worse than putting something out there that you'd never want to do again. I have a few butt bruises from kicking myself for not doing this so I swear by it now.

5) Before I got more focused, telling people I did "this and that" was a HUGE conversation killer. It wasn't lack of interest, people just don't know what they should say next. Now that I say "I knit and crochet handmade accessories." even someone who isn't in the market right now gives and emphatic "Oh! I'm going to have to check out your stuff when it gets cold", maybe one day they really will buy or tell a friend who's looking.

OK, five seems like plenty, right? Next time, I'll post on deciding your niche when you can do lots of things because this post is getting long! It's taken me a whole year of processing where I see myself going, so if I can make it easier for you, I will do that!

*love and hugs* Jen

Saturday @ 6am

2010-03-13T03:21:00.000-08:00

Hey guys! I'm making cupcakes this morning for my sis with buttercream frosting from scratch! I'll share photos tomorrow. I am sooo psyched because I love cupcakes and have been wanting to make them from scratch for a while. *cross your fingers*

Working on business stuff too. I plan to post soon on finding your niche, specially when you lurve everything. Can't wait!!

I hope you are well. Let me know what's happening hot stuffs!

Hummmm....

2010-03-12T06:36:00.000-08:00

Is for hummus! I finally found tahini at Fresh Market after looking for a couple of weeks, only to just stumble on it at Whole Foods where I looked at in the beginning. I hate it when that happens, lol! Anyhow, I make mine chunky 1) because it's a pain trying to get it perfect using my hand mixer 2)because I lurve it that way now! You want the recipe?

Here ya go:

1 can of chickpeas drained and rinsed
2 tbsp water (I got this from a book, not sure if it's necessary)
2 tbsp tahini (I do generous spoons)
1/3 cup olive oil
2 cloves garlic (I used minced and fresh with great results)
1 tbsp lemon juice (more or less to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
Paprika (sprinkle on after blended)

I stir mine to get all the stuff mixed in, then blend with the hand mixer till smoothish, but still a few chunks of chickpeas, sprinkle that Paprika yum! You could spoon a little garlic on top for an extra kick too :-)

Voila! The result is plenty to share or eat for lunch with veggies over a couple of days. Sorry this pic is blurry. I was in a hurry to get out the door and get to work. Taking pics of hummus isn't a part of my job description...so sad :o(

I hope all is well with you! *love and hugs* Jen

Your Jen Minute

2010-03-10T04:57:00.000-08:00

Well...Jen 52 seconds, but that isn't as catchy right? Hey y'all! I am so happy to have the day off and be mommy :-D We're going on a nature walk with the little guy's class.

Anyhow, that hand motion after I talked about the delicious, humongous apple was a jazz hand! Did you catch that? "The Boss of You" is really an awesome book. Check their blog out too. I've been working on my business for two years and this is the first book that I've really connected with, asked me the questions I've been asking myself, and helps guide the process. I'm so excited to see what will come of this. I'll be telling you more later!

OK, better get the kid ready for the trip! Husband had an interview yesterday so please send awesome vibes that he lands it!! Sister's due date has been pushed up too...baby and mom are fine!

I hope all is well in your world! Let me know the haps.

*love and hugs* Jen

Boots!

2010-03-09T07:40:00.000-08:00

I got some new ones! I am sure they're made for walking, but I don't have immediate plans to walk over anyone in them.
Yes I took pictures

but I won't bore you with the other two shots, lol!

I'm, also entering this fun contest to win a fortune teller. Remember those!?! The blogger turned 30 this year so we all get to celebrate, YAY! You should go enter too and I promise not to resent you if you win :-P

I hope Tuesday is being kind to you. I had great yogurt and bad grapes so I'm not sure how it's treating me just yet :-D

*love, hugs, and keep your fingers crossed still*

Jen

Should I stay or should I go?

2010-03-02T07:45:00.001-08:00

Well not me, my hair! I've had locs for a few years now...can't remember how many, but somewhere around 4 or 5 and I want a change. Don't want to straighten it since I don't think it fits my personality, don't want it super short (spent most of my 20's with super short and straight for the most part so would like something new, but it is cute short), and growing out my frizzy, kinky and curly (it's each of these in different places) hair promises to add a few extra minutes to my morning routine 0_O!

My husband says "It's just hair". He's a smart man, but that leaves me with no strong advocate in any direction.

I'm closer than ever to having my lip balm formula done and ready for production. Did I tell you I'm making lip balm?

*love and hugs*
Jen

Cover your huevos!

2010-02-28T10:22:00.000-08:00

Hey good people! A message from Christian and I. If they are just black boxes, click and the video should appear:

My impression of 80's drums

and the egg sweaters :)

So sweet!

I strongly recommend cutting the bottoms out of your egg carton if you don't have fancy egg cups (I love saying "egg cups")!

Happy Sunday friends. *love and hugs* Jen

Chartreuse!

2010-02-26T17:01:00.000-08:00

A little inspiration from my favorites. Not all of these are chartreuse, but when I saw them all together it was instant love! Click on the items or shop name to learn more or buy handmade :) Enjoy *hugs* Jen

(In order from left to right)
1. utilemud 2. dyedianadye 3. ModDogShop 4. hopejohnson 5. darkcycleclothing 6. joojoo 7. clayswan 8. SeaOfTales

9. behappynow 10.& 11. drummbellina 12. littleloveblue

13. kissadesign 14. KnitterBag 15. PixelWildChild

16. PetitPlat

*I have since realized that when I favorite something new, the pics change in the post, lol! Please click the pics and shops to check out this cool stuff :)

Happy Thursday!

2010-02-25T03:34:00.000-08:00

Hey all! This vid is sooo random, enjoy :)

*love and hugs*
Jen

Egg cozy outakes:

Apparently cozy spelled with an "s"...cosy...but I can't do it. I just don't like it.

The green one is too little. I'll have to make it longer.

That's all :) Cross your fingers for me too, OK? Tell you why later!

Gray, Yellow, and finally a New Year's Resolution!

2010-02-21T04:30:00.000-08:00

I am completely smitten with gray and yellow. Hopelessly devoted, for now :)

I looked up the meaning of both and decided that for me the two represent a balance of grounded steadiness and sunny flightiness (for lack of better terms). Hmmmm, these describe someone I know...

I made bows. Here's a "little" one constructed from an eco-acrylic blend yarn.

I made a slouchy hat of the same yarn. I love stripes as much as I love gray and yellow!

I made a chunky bow...I know my husband wonders why his wife makes bows, leg warmers and wristbands with hearts. I have wondered this myself. I also wonder why I am itching to paint a lavender and leopard print little painting. I've decided to give myself permission to not have an answer...sounds awesome, not easy. The battle of gray and yellow!

The kid and I finished his Lego Star Wars Republic Attack Shuttle yesterday, lots of gray and yellow, ahhh! *And* my New Year's resolution...move slowly, permit myself to create with my sunny flighty self, with my steady-mindedness, take care of the details. I am an artist and a business women. Let that sink in deeply. Ask for help when I need it. I love this :)

What are you up to?

*love and hugs*

Jen

Crazy for You!

2010-02-19T07:29:00.000-08:00

A little background music...a la Madonna:

..and a few of my Etsy favorites that I'm absolutely crazy for (click on the image to go directly to the shop item. Click on the shop name to see the whole shop):

XOXO Pouch, abreakastudios

Candy Striper Ring, PrettyinPeace (there's a locket too!)

Pretty in Pink Album cover Notebook! BubblePopNotebooks

Have a happy Friday!

*love and hugs*

Jen

Own-er-ship

2010-02-18T09:40:00.000-08:00

Reflecting on this word.
Reflecting on what belongs to me...really belongs to me.
What really belongs to you?
(I'm realy asking, not being rhetorical, lol!)

Star!

2010-02-17T10:19:00.001-08:00

I made a new hat!!

I love it so much that this one is mine and I'm making them to order in my shop.

I'm also gonna change this blog name...to Phineas and Lou (phinandlou for short). I don't wanna start another. I need to focus on the biz more and get out of my head! I hope I don't bore you :0)

*love and hugs*

Jen

Extreme!

2010-02-14T12:19:00.000-08:00

Hey guys! We ventured into the world of extreme sports...We got home, and into our jammies :) Here's a little post-sledding commentary and photos below.

At first we weren't sure what to expect and the husband was very focused because he doesn't like to be late...(We were meeting another family out there.)

The boys went down the hill again and again (that spot to the right is them). Funny...the hill looks harmless in this pic, but it was pretty high. I had butterflies when I went to the top and was really scared going down. It felt awesome to get to the bottom...so what that I dragged my feet the whole way!

After his second tumble off the sled, the little guy said he was ready to go home. We had so much fun. The husband was waiting very "patiently" for us to be able to get out of the parking lot...oh husband!

We're all pooped now. Made Valentine's for grandparents and entertaining a Sunday afternoon nap. Hope you had a great Valentine's Day.

*love and hugs*

Jen

That's just the way it goes

2010-02-11T00:25:00.001-08:00

"That's just the way it goes", she said.

Wishing she had red shoes and was feeling carefree,

but she already knew.

She had already seen...

She could only hope for mercy

and let her heart be big.

Whispering prayers and hoping that, as they

blew in the wind,

they were heard and honored.

Hunbled.

Quiet.

Moving slow.

Bitterness is no protection.

Anger is no shield.

Vulnerability feels like being naked in crowd

even when you're alone.

(For the record, I've never been naked in a crowd nor do I plan on it.)

Trying to find a way to say...being good isn't all that bad.

Vulnerability feels like being naked in a crowd, even when you're alone.

And now we dance:

Morning/Ode to the Handmade Life*

2010-02-09T07:20:00.000-08:00

Morning.

I'm rushing through the cold.

Thankful that the snow waited.

Thinking...

Sirens whine, trucks rumble, horns blow at the idiot trying to turn from the wrong lane.

(What if they're generally capable, just lost?)

Comeovers flap in the wind and bald heads glisten.

Obedient, lovely, normal.

I smell a perfume that must have been her favorite forever.

Heels click, click, click to the door.

Doing this again.

I won't do it much longer, I just know it.

Searching for meaning...

in lip balm and wool.

There's nothing more meaningful than doing
what you were born to do. (Provided that you believe that we are all born to contribute good [which I do].)
To live a gigantic life visiting the market at noon,
being available to those you love, taking a walk and not having to return at a specific time, seeing the sun at 2pm in the afternoon, wearing jeans on a Tuesday and mailing your work (your heart) to someone who believes in what you are doing.
Life without borders.
I see it.

*I've been feeling a little poem-y lately. I'm a terrible poet, so please bear with me through this phase!

I decided to dance

2010-02-04T02:03:00.001-08:00

and exercise to get the endorphins up. It was a good decision :) Enjoy!

Truth

2010-01-30T04:02:00.000-08:00

I was doing a 365 self-portrait thing.

I forgot, lol.

I can't help but laugh...I love to.

It's like breathing...something else I love to do.

I'll start the 365 again 'cause I really wanna do it.

I'm in love.

I'm scared too.

Not sure what words the universe needs.

What actions?

How many tears before something happens?

If tears are required and I don't have time to cry.

I work, I keep going...caught between hope and despair.

Please, whatever powers that be, understand.

I've been told before that I'm too cool, too tough...I'm as fragile as any.

No need to try and break me...I'm broken.

I admit it. I'm just afraid...I don't like to hurt and I'm familiar enough to avoid it.

Humiliation...

How can I want a job for my husband when more than 10% don't have one.

Why would my prayers be answered? I don't know if they qualify as prayers.

I don't know what to say. We need enough.

And Haiti.

Who am I to ask?

Who am I asking?

Will do a fun vid soon.

Always trying to balance what it means to be whole.

All of this is me...all is accurate.

I have humungous dreams (to me at least)

I fear they won't come true.

Fear I'll look back one day and remember what I wished for.

Fear...something else I can't afford.

It isn't easy right now.

Why do things leak and break all at the same time?

Energy!

2010-01-26T07:39:00.000-08:00

So the little person has requested a new blanket (to be named Monkey 2) and above is one of three yarns he has chosen. The other two look really nice together (lichen green and terra cotta orange), not necessarily with this one, so it will be interesting.

In the process, I actually took it a part and started over fearing that it didn't look right. I soon realized that it won't look quite right till it's done. Hmmm, I love it when my work speaks to me about my life. I mean, not that on my death bed things will make sense ~ how depressing would that be!?!? I mean more in the you have to keep going and then at some point things look a little clearer sense. I decided to move forward not knowing how it will look from row to row, but knowing that I have good guidelines, it'll be cool :)

I'd appreciate all positive thoughts/vibes as the Mr. is fully engaged in a job seeking mission!!

*love and hugs*

Jen

Oh...I forgot I called this post "Energy!" You can ignore that, I was going in a totally different direction :D

Full

2010-01-23T18:11:00.001-08:00

full of hope

full of love

full of uncertainty that could stop my heart if I gave it too much thought (ok, maybe a little dramatic, but still...)

full of pizza

full of gratefulness

full of wanting more days like this

full

Thurrrrrsday!

2010-01-21T17:46:00.001-08:00

I appreciate today. I'm grateful for today. (knock wood) I am exhausted today after two days of very little sleep due to waking up at 2am and 3am respectively. I had fun taking my sister to the doctor and spending the afternoon with her. Love.

I am excited about an idea that I have to help my sweet son with math. It involves handmade domino cards and lots of repetition, ok, and some change for his hard work (saving for a toy is a great incentive.) The change isn't really bribery...he counts what we give him, working in yet another skill he's expected to master. He felt happy and proud of himself...ahhh, mission accomplished. More love.

G'night good people (or g'day if you catch this tomorrow, which will then be today)....okay, need sleep now.

*love and hugs*

Jen

Love, love, love!

2010-01-18T13:22:00.000-08:00

Hey friends, happy MLK, Jr. Day! This post was recorded Sunday, but I'm just posting today so ignore the mention of Sunday, oops :D Anyhow, I hope you enjoy Christian's cameo and the Love, wristbands! I'm so excited about my wristbands and one thing I didn't mention is that $10 (50%) of the sale will go to Partners in Health to support Haiti.

Oh, and here is the link to Thomas Moore's blog that I mentioned. Check out the January 15th post. I love it!

Ok good people, I must go. Please send love, light, prayers, and positive vibes for my little nephew-to-be. Everyone's healthy, this has just been challenging!! I hope for health and happiness for you too.

*Love and hugs*

Jen

Phineas and Lou Pheatured!

2010-01-13T07:54:00.000-08:00

OK, first I'd like to apologize to you, my husband, son, mom, dad, sister and the rest of the family I represent for that terrible title, but I couldn't resist, lol!

I had to share that Phineas and Lou has been featured on the uber cool, wish-I-could-be-like-you blog essimar for MY Party Pom Pom headband in cilantro. I made the top 4, but I am on cloud 9! (Sorry about that one too. yesterday I was feeling mischievous and today I am feeling quite cheesy!)

essimar is also a beautiful shop on etsy. Check her out and fall in love with what she does with paper.

Have a fantastic day friends!

*love and hugs*

Jen

What? Again?

2010-01-09T21:45:00.000-08:00

Hey friends! My Etsy shop has been busy, which is fun, and I have been really thinking about life and work. Monday's are hard for me and it isn't about where I go on Monday which isn't so bad. It's about the soul and where it belongs.

I've been asking myself a lot of questions and I want to share them with others who might be in transition too. This feels good because I really want to "give back" and this is something that I have to give right now. It feels good, true to me, and authentic (yesss!) The new blog is called Don't Hate Monday.

I'll be updating this one soon, it's just been a wild week or so!

Talk to y'all soon!

Welcome 2010 and a math metaphor...Delicious!

2010-01-01T16:14:00.001-08:00

So 2010 is here and the goofy side of me feels great that 10 is half of 20 and that the whole number can be divided by two as well 20 and 10 individually (they can be divided by 5 also. I love numbers that can be divided by 2, 3, and 5 for some reason). There are so many possibilities and hopefully that translates into a good year ahead, lol!

In other news, life has been quite busy. Vacation was a whirlwind culminating in my sister's hospitalization (sis and baby are fine) and dancing the night away with little ones. Over the week I've asked myself, who am I? what do I believe, in a spiritual sense? what's my style? Where am I going in life? How do I define loving myself? After much reflection, I bought some black nail polish and painted my toe nails (tres badass, which is so me, ha), then washed my hair in my very favorite brand shampoo and conditioner, and put on eye shadow even though we weren't doing anything fancy...the answers were in the activity...and then the math metaphor...

In algebra it's all about simplifying your answer...boiling down the stuff in the equation to get to the solution. For me...boiling down the questions and just being. I had fun. I saw my sister today and we laughed hard till I cried and was so thankful that she is loved by a really great guy. I listened to my dad's and mom's stories about what the city used to be and felt enriched. Happy New Year friends!!

*love, hugs, and great things ahead*

Jen

2009-12-23T04:12:00.000-08:00

Last day of work till January...so what that January's basically next week, I like saying it this way :D

Today I had an appointment and I was ready to help, but found myself helped just by hearing the person's story. People are amazing...rich and complex. (At least the ones I pay attention to are!) I really envy Oprah and Ellen because they get to hear so many stories. I love hearing life stories. *sigh*

What a great last day at work (*knock on wood*). Here's to hearing and making some wonderful stories of our own!

*love, hugs, and glass clinks*
Jen

A new and honest direction...

2009-12-22T12:31:00.000-08:00

I think I might be too serious. I get intense about things that make other people laugh, but then again I laugh at things that make other people get intense. (Not laugh ha, ha per se...ok, sometimes, but I'd never laugh at another person's expense.)

For this and many other reasons, I feel like I'm often out of touch with the world and wonder if that would cause my demise. Will typing "my demise" cause my demise...and if so, would some radical Chrisitan group find this, add Jesus to it and send it in an email suggesting that mocking Christ (which I am too afraid to do) is what actually caused my demise...and by sending it to 10 other people, you will avoid yours? Probably not because I am not famous :/ (I've actually gotten that email...have you?)

(I secretly feel that typing "my demise" an even number of times will somehow spare my life and so now I'll type it again...my demise. I don't like to think of myself as superstitious though.)

So this is it. More honest...more heart and soul, less of some other stuff...you'll see, just trust me. Happy Tuesday! :)

Soul Searching

2009-12-22T12:27:00.001-08:00

That's what I'm doing :) I'll let you know what I find someday soon.

Happy holidays and humongous hugs!

Jen

So many happy things!

2009-12-19T15:55:00.000-08:00

Hey all! I'm learning to play with the editing tools on my Mac!! There is much work to be done, but a little progress, I think. I even added credits :D

Anyhow, congrats to my husband on his huge accomplishment *sigh of relief* and check Kim's shop and blog out for a dose of pure happiness (see close ups of her work below).

*love and hugs*

Jen

Here is the wonderful card:

and a better view of the littler things:

Hey there!

2009-12-16T12:08:00.000-08:00

Hey y'all. I am up to my ears in final's support mode for the mister :D This is it good people so please send out positive vibes as he has the toughest final tomorrow. We've approached this one like Rock and his trainer whose name escapes me, lol!

I have some fun things to share once this is all over so I can't wait. In the mean time, enjoy the painting I did from way back in the day. I sold at a silent auction last year...too much fun! Hope all is well!

*giant hugs*

Jen

Fascinated

2009-12-10T04:37:00.000-08:00

Happy Thursday good people! I hope that all is well with you :) I has an early start so I could get some projects done so I'll be a mess in 3...2...zzzzzz, lol!

In other news, tonight is my little guys winter concert at the school. He's so excited and has been sings the same two lines and doing the same two dance moves for days...It goes a little something like this "Wrong or right" *thumbs up thumbs down*, "Black or white", *an funky leg thing and a snap*. He's such a little performer...where'd he get that from, hmmmmmm?

OK friends, have a great day and check Kim's blog out...I mentioned it in the video and you'll love it!

*peace*

Jen

Get down

2009-12-07T10:33:00.001-08:00

I've been doing a little research on creative women who inspire me and as I was thinking about it, a song popped into my head. I was a little crumb snatcher when it came out and had no idea that A Taste of Honey was so absolutely badass (officially one word, lol). There are so many things to love about them. They are so talented...check out the guitar playing... I'm about to grab my wannabe Solid Gold Dancer headband and "get down". Enjoy friends!

*love and huge hugs, plus a few hip bumps*
Jen

Monday Stuff

2009-12-07T03:23:00.000-08:00

Hey guys! How's it going? Things are cool here :) I am falling helplessly in love with art, design, and other people's blogs. I spent some time clicking on my favorites favorites and wow! I also deleted one off of my thought-it-was-my-favorites...why do people think it's cool to be cruel to celebrities? I get the argument that they've opened themselves to the public, but shoot, I'd hate it if at my job people started publishing my crap and critiquing the fact that my pants did nothing to hide my thighs, you know? Plus, it's easy to recklessly pick someone else apart, but the real work is turning your own creative energy into something productive and interesting. Not that there isn't room for opinions and such, but just being mean..not cool. Anyhow, it's gone now and I invite you to visit the links to the left (the other left) for some real, quality bloggage :) *slides soap box back to the corner*

Being creative and appreciating creativity is such a blessing and a gift. Enjoy the pic of heart-melting butterscotch yarn balls. Speaking of heart-melting...I've been listening to this song for about 3 days now... Have a wonderful day!

*love and hugs*

Jen

The Boss

2009-11-29T11:32:00.000-08:00

Hey guys! This is one of those times that I am not quite sure why the universe provided me such a little voice to say big things..but it's all good. I really just wanted "The Boss" to sound much bigger and more powerful because that's how I feel it! I'm really excited about the pieces I've created lately...now to work on the pictures. It is no joke communicating to your audience through pictures that they can resonate with. It's a work in progress for me. One that requires lots of patience and lots of shots, lol! Anyhow, I didn't actually talk about that much in the post...maybe the next one.

I hope that all is well in the world with you. My husband graduates in 2 and half weeks so I'm asking for lots of thoughts/positive vibes/prayers as he looks for a job and we continue to chart our course...in charge of our lives and being The Boss(es)!

*love and hugs*

Jen

Listen to this

2009-11-25T10:44:00.001-08:00

I was running a before work errand and happened upon the most sensual description of Thanks Giving dinner ever on NPR! The french accent didn't hurt, but more than that, it was how the chef talked about the food. You could hear her passion for the tastes and texures and I in turn felt like I had truly experienced life in that moment. Bon ecoute!

*love and hugs*
Jen

Show and Tell

2009-11-24T04:22:00.000-08:00

Hello friends! I thought I'd share one of my projects in the works that I'm really excited about. (There are so many reasons why this one is particularly exciting). The others are going well too. I plan to have the bags for the teenagers done this weekend, since the weekends are best for sewing for me. I can't wait to show you...one hint...hand painted pockets!! I also dreamt of the cutest design and so I'm jazzed about that too...in creative block news, I have the most gorgeous butterscotch yarn, but no idea what to do with it...well I do know, but I need to buy more, so that project is on hold. I am fighting with myself to just let me make something, but I'm not happy with anything except the one idea, so I'll wait :/ Does that ever happen to you??

Last but not least, I watched Pride and Prejudice with my husband last night...well, I slept through most of it while he watched, but I love the style. LOVE it. So I think that will heavily influence my spring/summer collection. Think vunterability, lovliness, and strength + soft colors, flow, comfort and sexiness.

OK, time to get moving. I have great news that my husband's aunt is taking her treatment well! This week she has several more and then she'll be monitored for progress. OK, for real this time...have a great day.

*love and hugs*

Jen

Redefine Everything

2009-11-17T04:34:00.000-08:00

Hey good people! I'm back in video :) I love video because it keeps me from getting stuck in my head...my mind is like a Venus Flytrap and no thoughts hovering around are safe from getting trapped in there, lol!

So more about "Who do you think you are?" from the perspective of being an artist. What's a girl like me, in my body, in my skin doing wanting to express things like vulnerability? Isn't that the role of the waif...Isn't sexy, rocker expressed through straight, black, spiky hair? I just don't have that...so what does that mean? Do I accept that I can't occupy those spaces in my skin and in my body, with my little voice wanting to say big things? Or do I redefine everything?

Hmmm....

*love and gigantic hugs*

Jen

Who do you think you are?

2009-11-16T02:52:00.003-08:00

Hey guys! We got some great news that my husband's aunt's cancer is treatable!! The process will not be easy, but to see the look in her eyes, *sigh*. She's ok and ready to face the next step.

Last week, as you could imagine, has been a whirlwind. Before it and in the midst of it, this question has been sort of nudging and bugging me...Who do you think you are? I've heard so many self-helpers say that basically everything starts with your thoughts, and I've said ok, but which thoughts...that's bull...nice way to get rich telling me to fix something intangible... (Clearly I didn't take this line of thinking too well.) But then, in my quest to change and turn the ship that is my life around, something is happening.

As I resist some of my own efforts, I ask myself why. Why do I still make certain choices? Once I boil the answers down, I come up with the same conclusion...this is who I think I am. Then I've asked myself, but is this true? Usually not, usually it's just me *reciting* some old worn out (but comfortable) script or playing the role that I've always played...there is so much here. This is so important because who you think you are shapes who you think you can be, which is so directly related to what you do...oops, who's sounding like those self-helpers, YIKES??? I can't wait to share and maybe get a video up soon and sorry about all these self-portraits! I tried to make them a little less about my mug with these outtakes of adjusting my glasses while trying to be modely :)

*Please keep my friend in your thoughts and prayers too. I am sure that every positive thought for her and her family makes a difference!*

Love, hugs, and who do you think you are?

Jen

What's in a hat?

2009-11-09T07:44:00.001-08:00

Hey there! My video thing was being weird this morning and since I tend toward running late these days (ok, years), you get me still :) I was going to wear the hat pictured here because I absolutely love it. The stitching and that pom pom bring me such joy, lol. (I will be buying a jumbo pom pom maker soon so watch out!) It's also sort of a dream come true in that I imagined it, then I made it and it was all that imagined...I called it "Good Times" because in my mind, this is a hat that you laugh hard in when it's cold and you can see your breath or maybe you kiss your sweetheart on a night lit with white holiday lights and music piped into the street. Maybe you say "I love you" maybe you don't, but either way, you know. It's a hat that you wear in the pictures and looking remember that you are so fortunate to have love. *sigh*

In other news, I'm on day 9 of the 30 Day Shred with Jillian Michaels of "The Biggest Loser" fame. All I can say is WOW! It kicks my butt, but I can feel the progress...I'll update on that tomorrow maybe. I have so much to tell that I just don't know where to start...I feel a blog blitz coming on!

*love and hugs*

Change.

2009-11-02T04:06:00.000-08:00

Hey guys! I'm sort of back :) I had so many thoughts that I wanted to write to accompany this post and can't think of one of them! I did, however remember to thank Mary Anne from Starlight Blog for two lovely awards: One Lovely Blog and the Icing on the Cake...I LOVE icing so this fills my heart with joy :) I'll be following the rules of said awards later in the week. I'm also working on getting the voice and motion to be in synch...one of these days soon I hope!

I hope you had a fun Halloween! We had a blast and my little Darth Vader collected several yummy pieces of candy, until he declared "I think that's enough" and then we went home and passed out treats, lol. He is quite a funny guy.

Have a great day!

When almost counts...

2009-10-28T16:41:00.000-07:00

Hey guys! My voice is almost back. It's really scratchy, but at least sound comes out now, yay!

So many things to tell, but the coolest was that I was feeling a little angsty and thinking about how to deal with that this morning. As I was almost about to delve into deep self examination...something inside me thought *just be grateful*. So I did a mental on 180 and went down a really cool road of being thankful for a wonderful husband, kid, place to lay my head, on and on and guess who felt better?

Not that I'm breaking ground with this insight, but I realized sometimes feeding the angst is like feeding a tapeworm...it'll never be full or satisfied. Feeding gratefulness, you want more, you want to give more, and somehow your heart feels so full, it overflows...I like that better :)

To add to the grateful list: The "Tortilla Soup" hat above was in a treasury the same night I added it to my Etsy shop! I sold two more pair of leg warmers and am completing the other two orders I have. It feels amazing and so right...so right to be creating for happy customers!

I hope all is well with you guys :)

*love and hugs*

The lost voice

2009-10-26T11:00:00.001-07:00

It's official...after days of coughing, I have lost my voice for an undetermined length of time :( I can only whisper, with tiny hints of sound every few hours to remind me that I actually have a voice that will return one day. hmmm...this could so easily be a metaphor. I bet it is, but today my friends, I am too tired. I. am. too. tired.

Enjoy the pic of a little practice swatch before I started the whole sweater that I didn't finish yet :)

Love and hugs!

mir·a·cle.... \ˈmir-i-kəl\

2009-10-24T05:09:00.000-07:00

Hey guys! I'm still coughing terribly so no vids for a while, that's good though, change is good! I just wanted to share a little miracle story...

I went to visit my parents because the little person (pictured above) demanded some time with grandma and papa. As we sat, my dad tells me that, as he was driving the other day, it hit him that he was "in charge of [his] life". My dad's a responsible and conscientious person, he loves to golf and enjoy life with friends and family so what he was saying was bigger than this...it was about letting go of shoulds and feeling responsible to other's in a way that took away a sense of freedom. Bye bye people pleasing and feeling out of control. He sounded so happy and talked about realizing that he has love...he is loved by us and that's all that matters. As he expanded on his thoughts...he changed my life. I love my dad.

I needed to hear this. I like to do things *right* so I sometimes get stuck in crossing t's, dotting i's, checking in with all involved to make sure there's an understanding, blah, blah. On one hand, I tend to be a clear communicator, on the other hand, there is little satisfaction in people and system pleasing as people and systems tend to do whatever they will do regardless of how well I communicated :) This gave me a little sense of freedom to live from the heart...from my values...from my priorities. Yessss! *raises arms in victorious stance*

Happy Saturday guys! I'm off to enjoy this life that I'm in charge of :)

cough, cough and a mind all over the place!

2009-10-21T02:09:00.000-07:00

Thank goodness it isn't the flu, but I've got a bit of a cold forming (so far cough drops have been helping, but for some reason, I can't sleep so well). My little one is feeling better though still tired, which is to be expected. I am so thankful that he has been eating and drinking this whole time...I've been up since 3:50am and commercials before 6 am (heck even after) are hilarious...male enhancement, weight loss, household necessities, and make up that makes you look amazingly younger and less spotty are an insomniac's only comfort. Oh, and let me not forget cash for gold, lol!

OK friends, gonna relax a little and enjoy Reno 911 then knock out some work on orders :) ...I've got three projects working ~ leg warmers, two bags for teenagers, and two ACEOs ~ I love it! ...I thought a picture of the "Yarn Soup" neck warmer (with tough girl face) was in order since the fall/winter sickness season is upon us!

Love and hugs,

Jennifer

Hey guys!

2009-10-19T13:44:00.000-07:00

Hey guys! This flu is a trip...try and stay well, ok? The little person is showing signs of steady improvement, thank goodness!

Here are the pictures of the completed sweater dress. It's 100% wool and 100% happiness! When I started I had a vision for this, but the collar wasn't quite right and the racer back wasn't as pronounced as I wanted, so I had to undo it (sides were already sewn together so that was interesting and sort of fun!)

Like I said, this dress represents more than a dress, it's about moving forward in trusting my creative instincts and love for fashion...not looking for easy ways to appeal to everybody/the end of seeking approval on a whole nother level...

The dress, like living in my skin, is amazingly comfortable. I am amazingly comfortable in my skin, whoo hooo!! That's something to celebrate.

The undoing and redoing were so worth it, I'm happy with the back of the dress, I learned it was about patience and focus...not rushing through and not worrying about when I can't quite see what the end will be. Ahem, do I hear a life lesson in this? I feel so much love and excitement...yarn + tools = ROCKS!!

A creative challenge ~ Go There.

2009-10-08T04:04:00.000-07:00

Hey guys! I came into knitting with a desire for leg warmers and a love for color. I ended up with a passion and a medium that has challenged me in ways I didn't expect. The process isn't one that I can speed through so I'm pushed to be patient. At the same time, I feel a drive to be authentic in my expression through knitting and crochet. It's been interesting, fun and maddening! Where is there for you? What's been challenging you creatively or otherwise? *Hugs* to you ang cheers to going there!

hmmmm...

2009-10-02T04:20:00.000-07:00

Hey guys! Yet another crazy capture, but I'm over it now. You'll notice in the background, my 80's style family monogram. It's my favorite. It reminds me of Cyndi Lauper every time I see it :) I also wanted to give you my email phinandlou@yahoo.com if you want to email me a video of you talking about your passion. I really, really want to see/hear from you. Last, but not least, my so really loves to dance, but he's not supportive yet of "Salsa Man" th dancing hero. I did a few moves in the first video I shot, but the volume didn't work and I didn't want to be late for work. Sorry you missed it. My moves and that headband I have on are quite a pair, lol!

Have a great Friday y'all! *hugs*

Hey there!!

2009-09-28T03:51:00.000-07:00

Hey guys! Don't you love that face I'm making. I don't know why this thing captures the worst possible moment as the opening shot, lol! Sorry I was gone last week. Things got so hectic!! I'm back now and I broke one of my lights so it's a little dark again...we'll get that fixed! Anyhow, here are the links to the awesome things I mentioned in the video

PUREnaturalMinerals on Etsy and Loves Gumbo

Have a great day guys! *Hugs*

Happy Sunday and a Little Cheerleading!

2009-09-20T15:18:00.000-07:00

Hey guys!! Happy Birthday to my dad who is on his way home from golfing down south!! Shout out to Will Ferrell for his genius in Talladega Nights (don't judge me, lol). I hope you all enjoyed a fabulous weekend and please forgive all my moving and that sad bit of cheerleading at the end, remember, it's the thought that counts :)

Have a great Monday!

Accidental Waving

2009-09-16T03:42:00.000-07:00

Hey guys :) Just a little reflection on a big embarrassing problem I have! I'm not running late today, nor am I sleepy, so I predict good things for the day ahead, lol. Oh, I keep forgetting to post pics of the first sweater I did, so I'll do that soon. It's really a fun piece I think! Anyhow, what are you looking forward to today? My hopes for great times :)

Outbursty

2009-09-14T04:17:00.000-07:00

Hey guys! I don't know why the video starts with such an unflattering shot of me and the motion is sort of slowed down, yikes! I have lots to learn... Anyhow, I hope you had a wonderful weekend, I did, but now I'm sleepy. I tried sleeping a little while I walked in to the office, but 3 second naps don't work :(

For this post, I need to provide some references in case you missed the instances I mentioned, so here's Kanye West and Joe Wilson in their outbursty glory! Are you the outbursty type? What would you burst out about?

Sugar Free Me Day and a Little Love Story

2009-09-09T04:05:00.000-07:00

Hey guys!! It's sugar free Wednesday (or salt free mish :)) Just a day to love your body and such. I am incredibly late so I have to apologize for stumbling a bit and I still have to figure out where to look!! Any experts out there...give me a hint, pleeeease. OK, I must go I hope you have an awesome day!

Happy Labor Day!

2009-09-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

Hey guys, I'm out of the basement today and I'm sooo sleepy!! Just wanted to update you on sweater dress progress and upcoming stuff too...like Sugar Free Me this Wednesday!! Hope you're enjoying a wonderful three-day weekend. :)

A Handmade Moment

2009-09-03T03:50:00.000-07:00

Hey guys! Sorry I'm looking to the right, what's up with that?!?!? Anyway, a little confession...I don't really drink coffee, but I LOVE coffee shops, so that part is from the depths of my soul :) Also, just to make life easier, my friend Kim's shop is queenofartsstudio.etsy.com I hope y'all are living la vida wonderful! Hugs :)

A little 80's vibe today :)

2009-09-01T03:55:00.000-07:00

Hey guys :) Hope the lighting is better! (You can get a better sense of the colors of the dress in the blog header.) Have a great day and many smiles to you :)

Jennifer Unravelled!

2009-08-31T03:35:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys! It's me, Jennifer. Here's a little test video of my new vision for my blog :) It's so dark, it looks like I want to keep my identity secret...sorry about that!

Phineas and Lou

Here we go!!

Bits and pieces

Being bigger...bigger being

I'm here...

The Flood

Whew!

I love my hair!

Is it too cheap to use Happy Monday as a title???

Fun stuffs!

The Tunnel

A moment of wild inspiration

Dip baby, Dip!

Sun hat

This much is true

Good

All at once

Successing

Unlocked

Away, always, aw ay (just kidding about that last one, I just like things in 3s)

Rupert Holmes Escape Pina Colada

Being there

In progress

Slow, slow, slow

And what do you say...?

Real Wisdom

Dear Diary...

It sure is Monday!

You Skinny Niche! Part 2: Finding the sweet spot

I think I was a blow fish in my former life...

Happiness!

Greek Yogurt: Pleasure and Angst

Ramble, ramble, ramble...

Mais oui Monsieur

You skinny niche!

Saturday @ 6am

Hummmm....

Your Jen Minute

Boots!

Should I stay or should I go?

Cover your huevos!

Chartreuse!

Happy Thursday!

Gray, Yellow, and finally a New Year's Resolution!

Crazy for You!

Own-er-ship

Star!

Extreme!

That's just the way it goes

Morning/Ode to the Handmade Life*

I decided to dance

Truth

Energy!

Full

Thurrrrrsday!

Love, love, love!

Phineas and Lou Pheatured!

What? Again?

Welcome 2010 and a math metaphor...Delicious!

A new and honest direction...

Soul Searching

So many happy things!

Hey there!

Fascinated

Get down

Monday Stuff

The Boss

Listen to this

Show and Tell

Redefine Everything

Who do you think you are?

What's in a hat?

Change.

When almost counts...

The lost voice

mir·a·cle.... \ˈmir-i-kəl\

*cough, cough* and a mind all over the place!

Hey guys!

A creative challenge ~ Go There.

hmmmm...

cough, cough and a mind all over the place!