Mix Tape Mondays: Music Makes Everything Better

It was a drippy, dreary day...chilly, but not really cold. Damp for most of the day, then downright wet and miserable once night fell. But, as many of you know, and the rest of you are now finding out, music is playing pretty much constantly wherever I happen to be, whatever I happen to be doing. Working, crafting, painting, writing...whatever...it's generally got a soundtrack.

I love sharing music with my friends, family and random strangers. LOL. Today I thought I'd share some tracks that seem to fit the mood of the day and the weather that set that mood.

This one isn't a video, but the song is good enough that you should just listen. It's moody and somber, kinda scary even.



This one's always great when you're feeling a bit pensive, or a little melancholy.



Another one without a video, but it pretty effectively embodies the mood the weather brings to many at this time of year.



I've been playing this one on repeat a lot. Not just that I love her voice. There's something about this track. The mixture of sadness and hope. Maybe. Maybe I you won't hear the same thing I do.



That will do it for today's selections. Hope you'll like this regular weekly installment. Hope your drippy and dreary night gets a little warmer with a song or something else that brings you joy.

Cohabitation Chronicles - The Oatmeal Bowl

I have a wonderful boyfriend...but, like any couple, we have spats, arguments and even knock-down, drag-out fights. I would, of course, never betray him by going tell all on items of a very personal nature here on the blog. But I have his permission to start on this segment of the blog, the Cohabitation Chronicles, where I'll discuss the day to day sort of peeves that we mostly laugh over, but sometimes result in a small squabble.

The Oatmeal Bowl

So, this is something I find all too often on the counter next to the sink. No, not in the sink...up on the counter beside it. Why he can't soak it in the sink, I have no idea. And because it's hanging out on the counter, he can't fill it to the brim, for fear of spillage. Thus, any oatmeal remnants around the top of the bowl harden to a cement-like consistency. I end up washing these bowls, along with coffee cups, beer mugs and more way more than I'd like.

Why he doesn't just squirt a dollop of soap into the bowl, scrub, rinse and put in the drainer...I'll never know. It wouldn't take that much longer than the precarious soak and balance routine you see above. For now, I grumble, laugh and wash the offending dishes. But I have threatened to put them all under his pillow. We'll see.

Next time, I promise, we'll talk about one of my foibles. Happy Sunday.

No Sleep 'Til...Tucker

I'm not generally a night owl. In fact, I'm generally a true early bird. I wake up fully awake and functional, able to complete sentences and hold conversations, bright-eyed and generally quite happy. Sleeping in has come to mean MAYBE 7:00 AM, perhaps even 8:00 during a really decadent snooze-fest. I'm generally yawning and rubbing my eyes around 9:30 PM and nearing a comatose state by 10:30 (if I make it up even close to that late).

When the moon is out, I tend to be ready for a snooze...

But lately, as I prepare and agonize and plot and scheme for this move from Warner Robins to Atlanta (Tucker to be exact), I'm burning the midnight oil. Actually, I'm burning the candle at both ends, because I'm not sleeping any later. I'm just sleeping less, consuming more coffee and getting more and more tired.

But, I AM getting stuff done (I just fear I'm not getting it done quite fast enough). I'm sorting through clothing and books, craft supplies and bike apparel. I'm getting ready to Craigslist and yard sale a lot of items that are NOT going to make the move.

I AM NOT reading, biking or crafting much. And those are the things that generally keep me on an even keel. I'm not TOO worried, yet, as there are only a couple weeks left until my big move takes place. Then I'll begin the worrying over D's big move about a month later. While we're apart for about a month I'm assuming I'll make plenty of time for crafting, biking and reading, in order not to miss him too much.

Until I get back on track and turn back into my early bird, morning gal self...I'll hope to enjoy my brief tenure as a night owl. I don't see it lasting much past my imminent arrival in Tucker.

Ten Gorgeous Things Tuesday: Dirty Birdies Vintage...

Oh if only I had all the extra cash I could possibly imagine on hand so I could get all these fantastic vintage lovelies from Dirty Birdies Vintage Etsy shop!

#10. This coat is calling out my name...it would definitely meet one of my Forty For 40 goals and get me looking a bit more girlie on 2011!

#9. I'm on an all things red kick of late, and this certainly goes along with that kick. I love the buttons, too.

#8. I want to pair these up with some cute navy tights and a long skirt and cute cardigan. Add some cute glasses and soft cosmetics and I'd look like a sassy librarian, right?

#7. Kinda sad I already ordered a new bag to use as my work tote/briefcase, as this one is just too cool looking! Maybe I need two?

#6. I'm thinking this would dress up and girl up any pair of jeans!

#5. I'm thinking this jacket would look pretty great over just about anything. Jeans and a sweater, simple dress, skirt and blouse! Love it.

#4. This makes me want to go on lots of trips...

#3. This would look splendiferous gracing my neck. It would dress up a simple button-up nicely.

#2. This would probably keep me organized...but I'll leave it for someone else to scoop up (it's a steal), as I've got some ideas of my own for organizing!

#1. Why, oh why, oh WHY weren't these listed before Christmas. I would have begged everyone to add them to their "for me" list. Too perfect for peeking out from a long skirt or accenting leggings!

That wraps up this week's installment. If you like anything here...please check out the shop (linked above, too). Buying handmade and vintage is a great way to ensure talented and creative people continue to craft and thrift.

Monday Musical Inspiration: Andrew Bird

Some days I need driving tempo and exceeding energy, while other days I want to listen to something a bit calmer, more reflective and soothing. Today's one of those days. My to-do list is long and just keeps getting longer. My roommates are snowed in, and not being self-employed that means they are playing while I'm working. I needed to listen to something both energizing and soothing. Andrew Bird fit the bill this morning and on through the day.

The man of my Monday music listening hour...

This is one of my absolute favorite. Hope you enjoy the listen and also enjoy the day, snowed in or not, whether you're working at the computer or in your favorite craft corner.

What I'm Listening To This Wednesday: Carissa's Weird

While I'm working diligently at the computer or at the craft center, I'd say that 99.9% of the time I've got music playing. With an iTunes library currently housing more than 23,500 songs and a slowly growing vinyl collection, I've got plenty of listening options. I thought I'd share them with you on a regular basis and see if I spark any interest in any of you!

I like the girl/boy dual vocals and sad sweetness that pervades Carissa's Weird sound. It's multi-layered and dense, while at the same time maintaining a sense of simplicity. The songs on this album are long and dreamy, allowing me to work along without have to listen too closely to the music. It's not just background noise, it's music that allows you to accomplish tasks rather than detracting from them. I don't own this on vinyl yet, but I will...I promise. Check it out on Amazon.

Favorite Tracks on the Album: Some Days Are Better Than Others

10 Gorgeous Things Tuesday: Felted Jewelry

Every Tuesday I'm going to comb the online shops, blogs and tutorials for things that I find beautiful and show you what some fantastic artists and crafters around the country and around the world are doing. You don't have to agree with me. If we all loved the same things the world would be a very dull place! (Note...these are not my designs...click the links if you like it and show the artist your appreciation with a purchase.)

#10: Felted Wool & Beaded Cuff Bracelet | Buy On Etsy

#9: Earth Brown Trio Felted Bead Necklage | Buy On Etsy

#8: Felted Wool Choker | Buy On Etsy

#7: Grey Felt Earrings | Buy on Etsy

#6. Crochet Multiple Strand Felt Bead Necklace | Buy on Etsy

#5: Triple Mocha Latte Felted Silver Ring | Buy On Etsy

#4: Spanish Wool Felt Ring |  Buy On Etsy

#3: Blue/Grey Felted Bracelet | Buy On Etsy

#2: Byzantium In Blue Felted Ring | Buy On Etsy

#1: Sterling Silver & Green Wool Felt Earrings : Buy On Etsy

I love felted jewelry, and each and every one of these pieces would make a lovely addition to my own jewelery box. As an avid crocheter, felter and newish jewelery crafter...all of these are incredibly inspiring.

Taking Part in Project ReStyle

I read a lot of crafty blogs, artist blogs, creative people blogs...along with all the cycling, running, and music blogs that most of you already know about. A couple of friends and co-workers that write two of those blogs have set up a year-long project called "Project ReStyle". I decided I am going to take part.

The premise? Take something unused, unwanted or perhaps leftover, maybe merely forgotten and make it into something new and useful, new and pretty, new and worthy.

I have three projects in mind for January. Maybe I should hold one for February, but that wouldn't be any fun since the projects are on my and I'm itching to start. They involve the following three things:

These boring, utilitarian cork boards are going to get a makeover
worthy of the new life we're about to embark upon in the ATL.

My good friend Jake drew these for me, Derek matted them...now I just need
to do some sprucing and get them ready for their new home.

No, not the boxes, that large piece of scrap lumber. Probably my most
ambitious redesign plan for the month, so I better get started.

It shouldn't shock anyone that I'm excited about this task. I'm the girl that got excited about making trophies out of old, dirty, grease covered bike parts. Maybe one month some of those bike parts will make a comeback in a project. I love to thrift, to scavenge...this just gives that love a purpose.

How am I going to fit this in amongst all the other things I need to do before we move to Atlanta? I'll make time. Sleep is overrated. And I can sleep more during the month I'm apart from Derek. It will make that month pass faster.

(de)Clutter and Collections

As the days tick slowly by, the time for me to make my move to Atlanta, and the time for Derek to follow me up are drawing ever closer and near. And per usual, I'm both freaking out and colossally excited at the same time. I'll be ready, and I'll make sure Derek is too, but that doesn't mean it won't be a bit frantic and frenetic around here in the coming weeks.

Right now our bedroom is a nightmare of piles: piles to be donated to the Rescue Mission, piles to potentially be sold in a yard sale, piles to go to the used book sale, etc. Right now I'm trying to get those piles organized and moved into the art room (there might not be much art going on in there for a couple days) in order for there to be enough space for us to sleep and for me to work (my office is about three steps from the bed).

Just some of my very messy yarn collection...

We're both making a concerted effort to minimize and economize in order to start fresh when we get up there. A lot of our stuff came from our previous marriages, and while there are no bad feelings or ill will, we're excited about the opportunity to start fresh and acquire furnishings and accessories that are ours, stuff we've chosen together. And since we're both creative and artsy, this way we can start to put together the sort of look/aesthetic we've never been able to pull together before.

Furniture is the biggie...we'll be staying with my sister and brother-in-law for a year while we save up and build up..so we can't take a lot with us (not that we want to...read above). Couches, love seats, chairs, tables, etc. will be sold. Some may be posted here or on FB if anyone local is interested or looking. I'll probably be making a temporary page here, and might post a photo gallery on FB, if anyone's interested. I'll do that sometime next week.

Part of the prized collection...Christmas additions, too!

In the midst of all the decluttering and minimizing, there are two things I realize we will probably never be able to (nor want to) minimize or economize. That would be art/craft supplies and our slowly growing vinyl collection. To have found someone who is as big a nut about both is amazing, so we're going to be thinking about some creative ways to house all of our goodies in our smaller space, which will also move to whatever new space we move into together in/around 2012.

Just a few things I "resolve" to do in 2011...

I know a lot of folks don't think you can successfully make and keep resolutions. I don't think that's the case. I think you have to be realistic and you have to really want to make the change or to put the time toward a specific resolution. I want to do so, and I'm willing to put in the hard work, the time, and the effort.

2011 is going to be a big year for me anyway. On June 19th, 2011...I hit the big 40. YIKES. I don't feel old, most people would say I don't look old, and I don't intend to act old. I think you can be a mature adult while at the same time hanging on to the wonder and excitement that many old-before-their-time individuals seem to think can only apply to children.

2011 is my year. The second half of 2009 and much of 2010 were spent in transition. 2011 will call for more change, more adventure and more transition, but this time they will all be in my terms on my timetable. And I'm excited about it!

So, here...in no particular order, are some of the resolutions I have for 2011...

• I resolve to take more photos, digital and hard copies on 2011. I love photography...but it has been the  hobby/artistic pursuit that I have put off or pushed to the back burner more than any other. I want to creatively archive my life moving forward...that is my resolution.
• I resolve to work toward small purchase/treats that will act as the rewards for the hard work that I intend to put in to my resolutions and my goals for 2011 (goals and resolutions are not necessarily the same thing...but in 2011 I will strive to allow them to co-exist and work together). The image above goes with both of these resolution.
• I resolve to revamp and rethink my entire wardrobe. I've never really allowed myself to dress the way I want, a mixture of vintage and classic pieces with just enough fun and funky mixed in to make the look all my own. I'll be paring down, donating, giving away and selling the bulk of my current wardrobe in order to allow myself to rebuild it slowly in a way that reflects the me I want to be in 2011 and beyond.
• I resolve that I will ride my bike more in 2011 than in any other year. I will take it for short and easy rides on errands. To the bank, the grocery store, the coffee shop, etc. It will provide a little extra exercise, on top of the training rides I also plan to get in.
• I resolve to practice a more truly handmade, DIY lifestyle as much as possible. From crafts and gift-giving to cooking and more. 
• I resolve that 2011 is the year I really go big, all out, bang-on with the development of the new businesses I decided to start once I l;eft the television station. I've been plotting and planning in my head for months, eking by...as I couldn't toot my own horn (market myself) until I knew exactly what it was I wanted to do and was truly good at! I think I'm there. So the business plans shall be put into effect and I shall keep anyone interested informed.

That's not everything, but it's what I can put a handle on right now. I'll be discussing each in more detail in future blogs, and I'm sure they'll keep me busy throughout 2011 and beyond.

I hope you all have an incredibly fun, but safe at the same time, New Year. I'm looking forward to spending it with my guy and some really good friends.

So...here it is...my new blog for 2011 and beyond!

A week or so ago, I posted...FINALLY, that I really wanted to continue blogging, but wanted to do so in a more all encompassing way. With a blog that somehow managed to cohesively pull together my many interests and pursuits, without being so skewed and helter skelter that absolutely no one would want to read it.

So, with a little play on words, while a certain Beastie Boys tune rang through my melon...I came up with crafDIY. I'm crafty, I enjoy the little bit of DIY I've embraced (and in 2011 I vow/pledge/resolve to embrace an even greater DIY ethic), and I've got lots to say (some meaningful, some meh) on a variety of subjects and topics.

This seemed the way to go. And I'm revved, pumped, jazzed, hyped to blog again. I've got ideas aplenty, topics galore and a year of more adventure than I'd ever imagined just a-waiting to be chronicled.

So, let's let the journal that this blog is meant to be, start rolling out one post at a time. 2011 is almost here. 40, YIKES, is around the corner...and I've got so much to tell you all! Hope you're looking forward, even a little bit....just a tiny, itty-bitty, bit to what might show up in the days that pass.