the jackson house

I'm moving the blog...

2009-11-07T19:50:00.003-05:00

So I've decided to move the blog over to wordpress.com. When I first started this blog, I had all these grand ideas of both Phil & I contributing and sharing our life with all of you. I don't think Phil has posted a blog ever! He's really just not interested and doesn't ever think that he has anything worth saying on here. I've finally decided that it's ok that this is MY blog. However, blogger just isn't doing what I want it to do for me. SO, over to wordpress I go! I've imported all of these entries over and now I'm in the process of adding all those little bits to it that I've wanted all along. With wordpress you can add tabs and pages. So there will be different pages for me to share ALL the different aspects of my world with you. Of course there will still be A LOT of Phil and Boz (and Miko) and our every-day adventures. But there'll also be way more of ME there: my crafting and my photography, my life philosophies, my goals and ambitions, the world through MY eyes. So, if you'd like to still join me, please remember this address:: donlyn.wordpress.com. I can't wait to see you all over at wordpress!

apple picking in the rain

2009-09-28T15:36:00.005-04:00

our sunday

2009-08-17T08:18:00.004-04:00

2nd ever pedicure

2009-08-13T11:20:00.006-04:00

Anyone who knows me really well, knows I have an aversion to feet. Ok, maybe not an aversion per se, more like a fear of. That's right ... I don't touch feet, I don't want feet near me, if I never had to look at feet I'd be ok with that. I don't even like touching socks that have been on feet. And if I could ensure that I wore the same sock on the same foot every time, I would. It took me three years to be able to pick Phil's socks up so I could wash them. Even now, I touch as little of the sock as humanly possible, pinching it between my thumb and finger at the cuff.

I don't give foot rubs. I will allow Phil to rub my feet, but only if I have my socks on. It took four years of dating for that one to happen.

It's a sad state of affairs, I know. But this being said, you can understand that I've never had a professional pedicure. Not once. Imagine my surprise when I felt the need for a pedicure to go along with my beautiful wedding dress a few weeks ago. I wasn't thinking anything crazy. I was going to give myself a pedicure. I read up on it, got the supplies, and LOVED it!

So now I've decided that once a month or so, I'm going to pamper myself and indulge in an at-home-pedicure. Maybe such rebellion will one day lead to a professional one!

we're back, kinda, sort of....

2009-08-11T11:54:00.000-04:00

Phil, the boz, and I spent the night Sunday and all day Monday at the lake. When we first arrived we had no electricity, due to a car accident several miles away, and had to scrounge for some candles to see by. Monday, we had a great time introducing Boz to the water and traveling across the lake by kayak. At one point, we had to leave Boz inside while we were out on the water because he wouldn't stop jumping out of the kayaks and into the water. I think we've created a monster!

trip to the big city

2009-06-15T11:03:00.003-04:00

Phil & I made the long journey to Boston yesterday. And then kept going. We went through the infamous "Big Dig" and over the really awesome bridge there (that I didn't manage to get a picture of :o( ) And on the other side we saw this sight ::

Very cool to see a giant windmill in the middle of a city.

Our final destination was Stoughton, Mass, home to Ikea!

I just love that place! We went with the hopes of finding the rest of our wedding decorations. And boy were we successful. We only have a few more items to get and we are done! YAY!

After waiting in traffic for a few minutets, we realized that we weren't going to find any parking where we were headed. So to roof we went. There was a ton of parking up there, but Phil chose this of all spots. Very funny, dear.... How about we wait until AFTER the wedding ??

our little tv watcher

2009-06-12T22:21:00.006-04:00

Phil & I typically watch one of two channels when we watch tv: the history channel and the discovery channel. tonight's choice was discovery. they were showing part of a series that shows what happens after humans. In the pictures above, you can see boz watching tv with daddy. they are both very hard to distract when this happens. below, though, you'll see what happens when an animal of any kind comes on... I hope you get as big a kick out of it as we do.

2009-06-09T11:04:00.002-04:00

Yesterday was the first day spent entirely at home in months! There was a lot of sewing, laundry, and invitation making happening. The pattern for the shirt comes from Weekend Sewing by Heather Ross. I am totally loving this book right now! You can see, as usual, how helpful Boz was. I couldn't seem to get a picture of my new shirt without him in it.

The invitations are the second round. We got half of them printed and our computer crashed. I've been trying for two weeks to get the old ones back but with no luck. So I finally had to go ahead and redo each page. The majority are ready to send out today. The rest will go out tomorrow. So, if you know an invite is on its way but you haven't seen it yet ... no worries. It's coming!

I also found the time yesterday to go on a nice long walk. It was absolutely beautiful out! Today it's back to nothing but rain ... makes for a good excuse to spend another wonderful day at home doesn't it? I'm sure the day will be filled with more sewing and invitations. And maybe some housework and cooking, too ?...

a borrowed camera

2009-05-16T19:09:00.003-04:00

Phil took mine with him to South America. So I borrowed Alyson's the other day. Enjoy!

and what post would be complete without a picture of The Boz...

out to ... sea?

2009-05-08T22:04:00.004-04:00

Yup. Phil is out to sea this month. I took him to the airport last wednesday for a flight to Miami. From there he took a military flight to the Dominican Republic so he could be choppered out to the waiting ship. He's playing nurse in the pre-op department of the ship. They call it the Hotel. Natives of each port will enter the ship and be directed to the Hotel where Phil and his chums will get them ready for surgery.

The only contact we are able to have is through email. So far, I've received an email daily from him. Tonight's email was very, very short. He wrote to tell me he has a sinus infection and was headed to bed. The poor man is in open-bay barracks (250 plus men sleeping in the same room). And in South America, just the other side of the equator. Can you imagine how HOT it is there? Sick, no privacy, and sweltering ... not my idea of a fun time. Keep him in your thoughts? I'm sure he'd appreciate it.

On the home front, Bozley, Miko & I are enjoying the company of my little sister. She's staying with us while Phil is away. Except on weekends (she helps run the family's motorcycle course) so it's just me and Boz (and the kitten, of course). Speaking of, I think it's time for a visit outside.

Thanks for visiting. Enjoy your weekend.

room with a view

2009-04-20T11:47:00.002-04:00

mum and I went to portland yesterday to visit aunt peg. she's at maine med on the cardiac floor. she seems to be doing pretty well. she had her fourth stint put in on friday and they're going in to replace her pacemaker batteries on tuesday. they say that the batteries in those things are only supposed to last five years, tops. aunt peg has had her pacemaker for over six so she's well over-due for some new ones.

being on the ninth floor and having a west-facing room, she has some pretty awesome views! and her bed is right next to the window so she doesn't even have to get up to enjoy them. this is right outside her window ... the brand new (by a couple of years, now) helicopter pad that sits atop the new parking garage.

in the farthest distance you can see mount washington, still snow-covered. unfortunately, I couldn't get a decent picture of it. but just east of the white mountain range you can see westbrook's sappi paper mill. I was shocked at how big it is. driving past it, it obviously looks rather large. But we were a good 10 miles or more from it and still, it loomed over everything!

Also right outside the window was the Portland Seadogs home field. too bad they weren't playing yesterday because it was the perfect view.

right next to the seadogs field is the deering highschool football/soccer/track field. When you're traveling on the interstate at night and you see lots of bright lights ahead of you, it's usually either the Seadogs or Deering Highschool playing or both. I can't imagine what their power bills must look like with all those lights!

well, i'm off to do some work on my book. that's right, I'm writing my first ever craft book! and I'm very excited! I'm sure there will be snippets to show you soon, so stay tuned...

2009-04-19T13:08:00.000-04:00

sewing help

2009-03-27T11:04:00.003-04:00

I finally got around to cleaning off my sewing table yesterday. with a clean slate to work with, i got busy sewing. and what sewing project wouldn't be complete without bozley's help? here he is, scoping out the scene, trying to decide what he can do to help mama...

with much frustration, he finally lighted behind my sewing machine. it was here that he found some inspiration.

"here, mama, let me lube that thread for you. everything works better when i chew on it a bit..."

after, of course, he had to inspect his work. i think he approved as he finally settled on chasing miko as his source of entertainment for the afternoon.

tonight starts the last weekend of my show. it's been a blast, but honestly, i'll be glad when it's over. a lot of time and energy has gone into it and i'm anxious to put all of that attention into planning our wedding. til next time...

some much needed scrubs

2009-03-25T17:54:00.003-04:00

those of you familiar with men and scrubs know how ridiculously difficult it is to find ones that fit properly. i have made many attempts at making scrubs but none were quite right ... they were all made from bought patterns that were usually labeled 'unisex.' well let me tell you. there is nothing unisex about 'unisex' scrubs. really, they're all made to fit women. but finally, FINALLY, i have made a pair that are a success! and the best part? i made the pattern myself. right from that crafty brain up there.

the second best part? (or maybe the tie for best best part) i got to use my brand new serger on them!!! i have wanted a serger for so long!!! i was browsing craig's list the other day and i found one for sale for crazy cheap. it's an older model (early 1990's) but the lady only used it one Christmas season for making fleece scarves. that's it! it is in such perfect condition. what a steal! it's definitely my very favorite new toy!!

stay tuned for some more serging excitement...

playing with Picnik

2009-03-12T14:59:00.003-04:00

(no worries, not my real dress! but I do love the idea of this collage)

a show worth seeing

2009-03-12T00:24:00.003-04:00

the show I've been working so hard on these last two months is finally ready for it's first showing on Friday. We had a dress rehearsal last night and we'll be having one today as well. I thought I would share a few photos with you; perhaps entice you to come check it out! I hope everyone is enjoying their week so far...

are you enticed yet??

2009-03-12T00:15:00.000-04:00

a touch of spring for this dreary day

2009-03-11T17:00:00.002-04:00

a quiet evening at home

2009-03-07T05:26:00.003-05:00

much needed after so many long nights of play practice and in the middle of an extra-long work week...

Phil played a PS3 game with friends in New Zealand,

while I contentedly knit. (I'm working on an adorable sweater for summer!)

Miko and Boz were happy to just hang out

and sleep...

it was a nice break for all of us. But, alas, it's back to reality and the demands of this world... enjoy your weekend!

the shop is open!

2009-02-16T14:12:00.002-05:00

That's right, folks. The shop over at twistedweave.etsy.com is finally up and running. I know, it's about time, right? I've uploaded a few items to the shop for now. And more will be added soon (i promise this time). For now, though, my eyes need a computer break and my belly needs some food!!

Oh, the wedding plans...

2009-02-03T10:19:00.006-05:00

Let's catch you up to speed...

After the last post, I spent the week getting Phil ready for his three week trip to New Zealand. I took him to the airport for a 7.30 am flight Thursday morning. Then Miko, Boz, and I went north to my parents house to stay.

The first order of business there? My wedding dress! Now, you know I can't show you a picture here because of 'someone' having access to the blog. But I will say, it is going to be gorgeous! Simple but elegant. I can't wait to see the finished product...

I spent the remainder of the week making calls to get pricing and reservations for all those important pieces of any wedding. Saturday, my sister and maid of honor, Alyson and my sister-in-law and bridesmaid, Kim went dress shopping and flower hunting. We found THE perfect bridesmaid dress! You can see it here.

After visiting a few craft stores and looking at all the fake flowers available to us, (don't worry, there will be nothing but real flowers at the wedding!) we put together this bouquet for me.

I know the pictures are a little unclear, and they definitely don't do it justice, but trust me ... it's going to be awesome!

So what's left? Well, everything! You see, I have to wait for Phil to return so I can clear everything through him. There are only two things that we've discussed and agree on :: colors and photographer. The colors are clover and moss. And the Photographer? None other than Caitlyn Barker! Caitlyn and I went to high school together. I am so excited for her to be doing my wedding! Thanks, Caitlyn!

Well, Phil will be calling this afternoon. and we'll talk a little wedding. I'll let you know if any other decisions are made...

Keep checking in for updates and wedding preperation pictures. It's going to be an exciting few months!!

2009-01-16T11:14:00.003-05:00

This week happened to be the sale that I always wait for. Simplicity patterns for 99 cents each. These patterns are usually $15.95 and up. So when the sale comes around I make sure to add to my pattern collection.

This time I had a few patterns in mind that I wanted to get. I realized that I don't have any dress clothes that fit and I'll need some for the show's production. I ended up finding a really cute top pattern and some beautiful plum-colored material.

Of course, bozley couldn't handle not having all of mama's attention so I picked him up and set him on my table. He loves to get up there and help me with whatever project I happen to be working on.

ok ... so he thinks he's helping. But really, I think I spend more time moving him than I do actually working. But how can you not love that face!?

And he was so good to stay right there, even when I walked away to check on the laundry. He didn't offer to jump off, like he usually does. And he posed for me for several different pictures without my prompting. He is definitely the smartest dog I know. It's like there's a little human soul peering out from those eyes. All he needs is to learn how to talk!

Thank you for enduring my Bozley stories ... I hope everyone stays warm out there. Be sure to bundle up and watch that nose for frostbite! 'Til next time...

twisted weave is on blogger!

2009-01-09T11:08:00.003-05:00

With a bookstore siesta coming up, I've been putting a lot of time into twisted weave. One of the biggies :: yesterday I started a blog here for just the business. You can also access it on the right-hand side of this blog under 'friends and inspirations.' There are going to be some really exciting new things happening over there throughout the next few months so be sure to check in and leave your comments. I really do appreciate them!

On a different note, some more exciting news :: I've been asked to stage manage the Freeport Community Players' upcoming show!! I'm very excited about this! I have a minor in theatre from USM and most of that work was done in the stage-management area along with dance and costuming. But for my first time out in the real-world-post-college theatre experience, stage managing a show is definitely an honor for me. Let us hope I don't forget everything I learned ... I'll keep you posted on how that's going along with show dates, if you're interested.

For now, it's off to pick up my new glasses and then head to work to cover lunches. Then I'm sure they will send me home for a nap. Phil thought it would be nice to bring home a few viruses with him from work. I've been sick since Christmas. Hopefully this latest round of craziness will be over soon! 'Til next time...

getting ready for christmas

2008-12-09T09:51:00.002-05:00

we had our first snow fall here in the central part of maine on sunday. I always forget how beautiful everything is covered in a layer of white. It never fails to get me in the holiday spirit. I went in to work for a few hours to cover lunches and managed this great shot of one of the local hot spots for ethnic foods.

yesterday was spent in front of the sewing machine, working on those gifts that somehow get saved for the very last minute. as always, bozley was very helpful!

He was my official product tester for the day. i would say they are boz tested and approved, wouldn't you?

inspired by project 365

2008-11-28T19:17:00.004-05:00

as the title suggests, i have recently been inspired by a few people to do Project 365. For those of you who aren't familiar, Project 365 involves taking pictures on a daily basis and posting the best one for that day (usually on a site like flickr) so that others can comment on them and possibly give you advise on how to improve the photo. The goal is to continually improve on your skills as a photographer.

My dilemma is this: I have a very short attention span. Tackling a project that is an entire year long is beyond my capabilities. So, I've decided to modify project 365 into a project 30 of sorts that I've deemed "30 days." The first set: 30 days of holiday. Feel free to head on over there and leave some comments if you wish.

I hope you all are enjoying your holiday season. Stay safe!

Sorry

2008-11-10T08:55:00.005-05:00

about being MIA for so long. We have been really busy around here. But let me catch you up.

The middle of October saw Phil & I at our very first craft fair. The weeks leading up to it proved to be quite stressful but it was well worth it. We learned a lot about what to do, what not to do, and what people want in general. We even made a little money! When all was said and done, it was a great experience and I will definitely be at it again next fall.

To add to our stress level, Phil & I are in the middle of buying a house. Our offer was accepted just a few days before the above craft fair. So we have been busy ever since with the inspections and the bank and the other realtor. What a process! I'm glad that Phil has taken care of the majority of it. We actually have an appointment with our realtors tonight to talk about the next steps. Wish us luck...

In the meantime, we have a teething puppy on our hands and I am attempting to get Christmas gifts made. The goal is to make all our gifts this year, excepting the nieces and nephews (what 5 year old wants a hat and mittens?!?) so they are getting toys of some sort.

Here's Bozley enjoying his first ice cube. It's amazing how calm he was once I gave it to him ... that is until he finished it. Then he was back to chewing on my chair. And yes. That's my cutting mat he's on. He just loves to help mama when she's working!

Speaking of helping the next couple show just how helpful he was...

This morning, when I got out of the shower, I found this:

Bozley is laying on top of the clothes I just took off in order to get in the shower. Apparently, they were warmer than the floor, so he just helped himself!

Well, it's off to the realtor's for now. I will do my best to update more frequently, especially as we head into the holiday season. Have a great week everyone! We'll be seeing you soon...

ahh the joy that is bozley...

2008-10-03T08:27:00.002-04:00

Phil & I met last night after work for dinner. After, I had to run an errand, so Phil headed home to check on Miko and Bozley. When I got home, I opened the front door to this:

Oh yes. Bozley managed to find some rolls of paper towel to shred while we were gone. That's right. Rolls plural. There were at least two partial rolls all over the living room, kitchen, and bathroom. When Phil brought Boz back in from going to the bathroom (which he didn't do) he attempted to tell him how naughty he had been.

This of course had no impact on Bozley. He just looked up at daddy and thought he was playing. When we finally made it into the kitchen we found another disaster, which I did not get a picture of. Replace all that paper towel with pee & poop and you get the idea (no wonder he wouldn't go when Phil took him out!). It took us at least an hour to get the place cleaned up. I made sure to clean up the spots in the kitchen with vinegar water but it wasn't enough. So Phil got out the mop and ended up mopping the entire apartment while I held Bozley in order to keep him from attacking the mop.

After we finally got into bed, Phil & I couldn't help but laugh. Who can be mad at a face like this?

one week later

2008-09-15T22:15:00.004-04:00

the poor puppy still does not have a name. he's doing very well, though. as you can see above, he's definitely made himself at home! He and Miko seem to have reached an agreement as well. It took the puppy a few times to get it, but Miko had no problem putting him in his place. Now you'd think they've always lived together...

On a different note, my website is now up and running! My Fall 2008 Collection of earrings is all up and ready for purchase. My two current bags are being put up as they are finished (which will hopefully be at least every other day). Thanks to everyone for all of your support in this ... I wouldn't be doing without your encouragement. I'll keep you posted.

Hope everyone had a good weekend!

our newest addition!

2008-09-09T17:46:00.003-04:00

We've been very busy in the Jackson household. Between working 40 hours a week and starting my own business, I seem to have very little time these days to blog. I do, however, want to introduce you to our newest member of the family!

How can you not love a face like that!! Unfortunately he doesn't have a name yet :o( this is only the second day we've had him. But he'll have one soon. He's already a mama's boy, following me around the house and whining to be held at every possible moment.

He soon discovered that he likes our bed better than his own and when I brought him to bed with me this morning at 6am, he slept sounder than he has his whole life, I think! His favorite spot: right in the middle of daddy's pillow!

A new favorite spot was discovered today. I was on the computer trying to make an order for twisted weave and he whined to be picked up. I put him in my lap and about 5 seconds later, here he was...

...on the pullout keyboard drawer. Another 5 seconds he was out like a light!

As I write this now, he's in the same spot, sleeping soundly, happy and content to be near his mama. I'm sure many more blogs will follow, showing the cuteness that is my poopy dog. Stay tuned...

it's been forever,

2008-08-15T23:12:00.003-04:00

i know. things have just been crazy busy around here. It seems as though I'm being pulled in a million different directions lately. SO, sorry for the lack of posting!

I am currently in the middle of getting things ready for the opening of the Olsen's Orchard. (thanks Emily!) I am super excited about showing and selling my work at the orchard this season. What an opportunity for one who creates for no one but themselves! To think that others look at my work and want a piece of it ... a piece of me, really. It's huge! I'm still quite shocked.

On a different note, this summer has completely flown by! Can you believe September is just around the corner!? In an attempt to savor it a little longer, I thought I'd share some of my favorite photos of the summer. I hope you enjoy them. Have a great weekend!

The Shop is Open!!

2008-07-28T20:06:00.002-04:00

That's right! My shop is finally open. I've only been able to post 4 different pair of earrings, so far. But it's a start! You can check it out here. Hope everyone is enjoying their week so far!

morning in the big city

2008-07-16T20:54:00.003-04:00

I had to be in Portland this morning at 8am. This means that I had to leave the house no later than 7am. I wasn't entirely sure what traffic would be like so early, so I left a little early. This gave me plenty of time to snap a few photos of the big city just as it was waking for the day. To my surprise, Monument square was turning into a farmers market. Everything was so beautiful, and looked so yummy! I was limited on time so I wasn't able to get any more than one photo of the market. Maybe I'll give myself more time on my next trip.

You'll notice that all of the photos have been altered except for the market photo. I've recently discovered Picnik.com and I am LOVING it. Check it out, but make sure you have time to play ... it's addicting!

What a long day

2008-07-15T20:09:00.003-04:00

As the title suggests, I had quite the day today. For some reason, I was running about five minutes late this morning. I was supposed to make a couple appointments for Phil this morning before I left but I ran out of time and so had to do on my way to work. So I got to work late, was there for two hours, and then had to travel up to our mother-ship store in Boothbay Harbor to drop off orders and "shop" their inventory for our store in Freeport.

The Boothbay store is THREE floors. The Boothbay store has NO air conditioner! Can you guess what floor inventory is on?? That's right ... the third floor. It was so hot up there. I spent about three hours going through product and selecting things for restocking. Needless to say, I left there with an enormous headache.

I did take a few minutes to go down by the water and was able to snap these photos:

It really was beautiful there and I wish I'd had more time to explore. Maybe I'll go back for a visit on my own time instead of company time. Although I started the day rushed, and am ending the day with a headache, I'm definitely glad I took the time to enjoy some of the beauty of the day. I hope everyone had a good day. Take time to enjoy the week!

Tumbledown

2008-07-14T16:08:00.010-04:00

Phil & I took Alyson and Kelby to Tumbledown yesterday. We had a great time, although you wouldn't know it by this picture:

We made a few pit-stops along the way up:

And Kelby practiced his rock-climbing skills:

It was such a beautiful day, we were able to get these pictures at the top:

After the long, hard climb it was nice to sit by the lake at the top and enjoy lunch.

Our lunch was ended quickly by some torrential down pours that lasted all the way down the mountain. By the time we reached the car, we were all soaked through, underwear included! Unfortunately, I don't have any pictures of this as we didn't want to get the cameras wet. But take my word for it, wet doesn't even begin to describe it! I'll leave you with this tikki man we saw along the trail. Enjoy your week!

I know, I know!

2008-07-13T17:31:00.004-04:00

It's been forever! I'm sorry. Things have been crazy around here since Phil got back from his trip on the Comfort. It seems like we have been going non-stop yet I'm not sure what we've done. Weird, I know.

Let's get you back up to speed! I had to work the 4th but Phil was able to visit his family up in Farmington. Here you'll see a few pictures of Fred's blueberry bushes and a picture of our nephew, Jonathan.

I joined up with the crew for fireworks in Augusta. And then back to Chris and Wendy's for some fun with Mason and the rest.

I'll post a little later about our hike up Tumbledown. For now, Phil needs the computer. Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

I couldn't resist...

2008-06-10T20:45:00.002-04:00

...stopping on the way home to capture these shots!

Phil is out to sea for two weeks. He's spending some time on the USNS Comfort. His, and my, hope is that when he gets deployed again, his services will be needed on the Comfort instead of overseas in the middle of combat zones.

While Phil is away, my sister Alyson is staying with me. We're managing quite well, watching TV and playing Wii.

I'll leave you with another picture from today, taken on my lunch break:

Mmmm ... cookies ...

2008-05-30T10:25:00.003-04:00

This morning I didn't have to be to work unitl 12.30! We've started our summer hours at Sherman's and are open until 9pm every day excepting Sunday. This being our first week of the late hours, Josh and I decided it would be nice if we spent the morning of our late shift making something for the crew. So today is my day to make something.

I asked Josh what he wanted for goodies and he suggested, "cookies or something worthy of snacking on." Claudette then piped up with, "oh yeah! You could make some chocolate chip cookies and save some for Rachel and I when we come back from our weekend!"

So chocolate chip cookies it is! I just hope they turn out well...

On an arsty note, I decided to try something new with the camera today. I got out the tripod and used the timer to capture me in action. For the first try, I think they came out pretty well!

Have a great weekend!

The new nightly routine...

2008-05-18T22:33:00.005-04:00

...does not make our kitten very happy. (she can be seen here completely ignoring us)

I know this isn't a very clear picture but our camera does not do action very well.

And the reason for said action:

That's right .. we have a Wii. And Phil and I have been ending our evenings playing tennis. It really is quite fun and takes a bit of energy. And by a bit I mean A LOT. By the end of the match we're usually removing clothes...

It's definitely a good time but Miko is sure to let us know when bedtime is approaching. She is not a happy camper when her schedule gets interrupted.

Not an exciting post by any means, but this is life at the Jackson house lately. With me now working full-time again and Phil pulling extra shifts, this is just about all we have energy for. If anyone out there is managing more excitement we'd love to hear about it so we can live vicariously through you... :o)

Hope everyone had a good weekend!

We're still here...

2008-05-16T08:21:00.005-04:00

So we haven't fallen off the face of the earth. We've just been super busy this week. This was my first week at my new job (2 more days to go!) and adjusting to a new schedule has been interesting. I'm used to sleeping until 10 or 11 am. But this week I've been up at 7.30 or earlier every morning. I am completely exhausted! But it's getting better. And the job is very good so far. Phil has been busy, too. He picked up a shift on his day off plus has Reserves this weekend. Ten days of work without a break. I don't know how he does it!

On a different note, we picked a wedding date last night! So mark it in your calendars ... June 13, 2009!! We are both very excited!! Now the planning can begin!

I'll leave you with a few pictures of Phil's Mother's Day adventures...

Hope everyone has a great weekend!

Craziness!

2008-04-30T23:09:00.003-04:00

Wow! Where to start! There is so much going on here. Friday I was offered, and accepted, a job with Sherman's Book & Stationery in Freeport. I am so, so excited. I start on Monday! There are just so many really great things about this job, like it being full time and having benefits, there's too many to list!

Saturday morning Phil and I met with a lender about a mortgage. We got pre-qualified for an amount that is higher than we wanted to spend, so things are looking great! We're working on saving for the down payment/closing costs. And we'll soon (within a few months) start some serious house hunting! Very exciting!!

Also this weekend, Phil and I decided to take a big leap and open our own shop! We're currently going to be listing at Etsy.com and see how things go from there. You can check us out at twistedweave.etsy.com. The official name: twisted weave::creation by design. We don't have anything listed yet as I'm still working on some designs and getting the photoposts just right. But I'll keep you posted as to when I update the site.

In the meantime, here's my first-ever completed design!! I'm calling it "whimsical" . There's a little bit of tweaking that needs to happen to the next one, but overall I'm very happy with the results. You know your design & sewing has hit a new level when things come out pretty great the first time around. This purse happened on the first try with no problems at all. This is very, very exciting!

The details:
A side pocket on both sides. Convenient for your cell phone, keys, and anything else you want to keep handy.

The inside is FULL of pockets! I hate digging around trying to find things, so there are 6 pockets to help keep things organized!

The dimensions: 12 in long X 8 in high X 6 in deep

Any and all feedback is welcome! I look forward to it, in fact!

Well, everyone enjoy the rest of the week, and try to stay dry...

2008-04-28T14:06:00.007-04:00

That's right! We went to Jasper Beach this weekend! All the way to Machiasport and back. I visited when I was younger with my family and the Humphreys. I remember it being the most amazing place. And to my surprise it was just as I remembered! (a note of warning: this blog will contain a TON of pictures)

So, Jasper Beach is not exactly a beach as one would think of it. There's no sand at all. It is entirely rocks. But these rocks are all smooth, like from a tumbler.

We had a blast just picking up unique rocks and taking pictures. We were hoping for some artsy shots and think we succeeded. Your opinion may differ, and that's ok. But we hope you enjoy the glimpses of one of nature's finest...

We just couldn't resist the setting sun! I hope nature touches everyone else in such a way that they too feel inspired. Enjoy your week...

Bailey Island

2008-04-24T21:06:00.007-04:00

Phil & I and Bailey went to Bailey Island on Wednesday. It was rediculously beautiful out and we both had the day off. We had never been to Bailey or Orr's Islands so decided to make the short trip. Our Bailey had a good time, too. OK, so, he's not our Bailey, but we've had him since Saturday while mum, Dennis, and Kelby are on vacation. Poor Alyson is home with the five puppies and mumma puppy. Anyway, I don't really have much to report. Bailey has been such a good boy all week and I've enjoyed having him. I'll leave you with a few pictures of our week and maybe a few captions to go along with them. Hope all is enjoying this weather!

Bailey found the windiest spot in the car but then decided it was more important to help Phil drive. We were headed to his island, after all.

At one point, he got banished to the backseat because he just wouldn't settle down. He wasn't very happy with me...

Bailey and I enjoying the view...

All that fresh air really tuckered Bailey out.

He was so tired he couldn't keep himself from almost falling on the floor.

Another beautiful day

2008-04-18T21:29:00.005-04:00

Today was absolutely gorgeous! I had to be to work at 1pm so decided I'd better get in as much sun as possible. After checking the temperature, Miko and I headed out to the back deck.

It's not very big, but at least it's outside and semi-private. I've started a new project; I'm re-finishing our patio furniture. This is the third season we've used it, and it was pretty cheap to start with. The only thing really 'wrong' with it is the seats have completely given out. Also, the white paint has been exposed to so much UV that when you touch it your hands come away white and chalky feeling.

So I've decided to repaint it with some Rustoleum in 'Anodized Bronze'. The table and one chair that I've started look great already!

And the fabric I picked out to re-do the chairs looks amazing with the bronze. I'm very impressed with it! Now I just have to figure out how to attach the fabric to the chairs. Our neighbor, Andy, seems to think he's got it figured out. I guess we'll see when I get that far. Another week of work and they should be done.

I hope everyone has had the opportunity to get outside and enjoy at least a little of the warm sun we've been having. Just remember the sunscreen!

Championship Volleyball Match

2008-04-17T10:40:00.003-04:00

Last night was Phil's championship game. He plays every Wednesday night in Saco. I usually don't go because I have to work, but last night I didn't, so I tagged along and thought it would be fun to get some really great action shots.

Little did I know how difficult that would be. You see, our digital camera doesn't DO action shots. The shutter is so unbelievably slow that it's just not possible unless you get the timing of the shot perfect.

This one, not so perfect. Have I mentioned I can't WAIT to get a new camera! Anyway, it was nice to see all of Phil's volleyball buddies again. And especially nice that there were other wives there watching as well. There was even a team mascot in the stands!

Needless to say, Em was not all that interested in the game. She was just trying to avoid being hit by the ball and being caught by the manager of the sport center. (she really wasn't supposed to be there) After a bit, though, she decided it would be nice to watch the game, and I even made a new friend out of the deal. :o)

Things were touch-and-go most of the night. The two teams ended up playing five matches to get to the ultimate champion. There were a lot of time-outs and group huddles.

And LOTS of chatter and encouragement on the court in between plays. Phil and Ed are the main blockers on the team. It's quite humorous considering how tiny Phil is comparatively. Ed is one big guy!

In the end, the hard work and encouragement paid off. Phil's team walked away winning 3 of the 5 matches to hold the seasons champion title.

Everyone was ridiculously tired but decided to go out for drinks after to celebrate the long awaited victory. We didn't get home until midnight. And after winding down from the evenings activities, it was 2am before we made it into bed. Phil was up a 6am for work and I can imagine he'll be one cranky man when he gets home. I guess I better get going on the house work so Phil can just relax tonight! I hope everyone is enjoying the beautiful weather!

Spring is in the air!

2008-04-09T23:06:00.008-04:00

Phil and I had a very busy afternoon at his parent's house today. We helped Fred throw in the last of the wood that had been buried for a good part of the winter.

A lot of it still needed to be dug out of the snow bank. But it was fairly easy considering it was 64 degrees in Farmington today!

While the boys were busy with the wood, I took the time to venture out around the house and fields. Let me tell you, the signs of spring were everywhere!

There were bulbs breaking ground...

...green grass showing...

... lillies starting their spring adventure...

And the river was open! Not a single sign of floating ice!

Before we left, Fred had Phil find his parsnips. What a chore that ended up being!

But it was well worth it!

Hope everyone is enjoying the beautiful weather!

button stash search...

2008-04-07T22:52:00.004-04:00

Phil said we wouldn't keep up with this blog. He was right. Although, in my defense (because I'm the only one blogging so far), I have been very sick for about a week and a half. It has not been pretty. Today is the first day I've started to feel well. In light of this turn-around, Phil and I went to Bath this afternoon. I wanted to see if there were any thrift stores downtown. I've been looking for a stash of buttons. Would you believe that there are no thrift stores in Bath!? Everyone I talked with only knew of "the Goodwill up Route 1 by Shaw's." Ummm...no. I'm talking, little rinky-dink, eclectic, hole-in-the-wall thrift store. Nope. Not in Bath. I ended up going to JoAnn Fabrics. (can you say 'desperate for buttons!') Anyway, I did find some rather interesting ones. I tried to photograph them, but our camera does not do closeups. (I can't wait to get a new camera!) So instead I leave you with my first-ever completed sweater (finished just tonight!) and a couple pictures of my 'button box.'

I hope everyone had a great Monday!

Yesterday's fun

2008-04-03T12:40:00.004-04:00

Phil took the camera with him yesterday to his parents and his volleyball game but didn't manage to take any pictures. So, this morning I took pictures of yesterday's projects to share.

Phil and I have decided that we want to be as self-sufficient as we possibly can. To this end, I've started to work again on some of my patterns. In college I designed a lot of 'costumes' for the University's Theatre department. It was a ton of fun but over the years I've let it slip away. Yesterday I picked it back up and had a blast!

My first project was finishing up the doll I started to make a few days ago. With this new self-sufficient attitude, I think it's important that our future children's toys be handmade. For the first doll I've ever made, and no pattern to go by, I would say this one came out pretty well. I definitely learned a lot in its making and the next one will be better, I'm sure.

My next project involved those patterns I was telling you about. I've been pretty sick this past week, fighting off some kind of virus, so I opted for the easiest one to work on. Amazingly, this was the first try. No re-cutting, no seam ripping, none of that. It does need a little tweaking (longer in the sleeves, longer bottom length, and a little thinner throughout) but it works. And boy is it comfortable!

Next project: I will be working on finishing the sweater I've been knitting and also on a skirt to go with the new shirt. Stay tuned...

Crazy dough...

2008-04-01T15:19:00.011-04:00

Today was a perfect day for baking!

As you can see, I managed to get my bum in gear and do just that. I got a bread maker for Christmas this year and have made all kinds of bread in it already. But today I decided to try something different. Instead of using a recipe from one of my 'bread machine recipe' books, I chose to use a recipe that I use when I make dinner rolls. That's right. I put together a recipe that has no business being in a bread maker into none other than my brand new bread maker. Word to the wise ... don't do this. I had the craziest mess of sticky dough like you read about! It was pouring out over the sides of the bread pan into the bottom of the bread maker where it's not supposed to be. I wish I had gotten a picture of this. It truly was priceless. By the time I thought of it, though, I was up to my elbows in the dough and I didn't think Phil would appreciate it all over his camera. Sigh...

I finally got it all onto a floured board and realized I had enough to make at least two loaves of bread. And so attempted to play with one and see if I could manage to braid it (as one would for challah). I, of course, have no idea how to do this. But I tried.

Here are the two loaves, ready to go into the oven. I'm pretty sure I should have cooked them separately....

AND ... drum roll please ... the finished product! How yummy does that look! I was right, of course, I should have cooked them separately. But they'll taste good just the same.

Our blogging adventure...

2008-04-01T14:39:00.001-04:00

So, I've decided to start a blog of our life. Phil's and mine. And whom ever else decides to join our little piece of the world in the future. Phil & I have recently agreed on the kind of life we want to build for ourselves and so I thought it would be fun to document and share the steps we take along our way to our future. Sometimes, it may only be our day-to-day happenings, but be assured that our day-to-day events will certainly contribute to our world as a whole. I hope you all enjoy keeping up-to-date with the Jackson Clan.