The Creative Adventures of Sara Ellen

* { I Have Moved! } *

2011-09-08T10:00:00.004-05:00

My home on the web has moved. It has been a LONG time coming, but alas I have finally figured out my ‘move’ to the Tumblr.com platform.

I started my original blog in 2008 and although I do not always write as frequently as I wish I could, I have not given up on it. Started originally as ‘The Creative Adventures of Sara Ellen’, I switched gears in December of 2010, when I purchased the doman of saraellend.com.

Keep following me at www.saraellend.com for more creative adventures! Or to those who use RSS feed or Google Reader. Visit my homepage and then click the RSS button to subscribe.

Thank you to my loyal readers and to any new readers, hello and welcome! :) Have questions or want to say hello, send me an email: hello@saraellend.com

Cheers!

SaraEllenD

{Pardon the mess, please!}

2011-07-12T14:57:00.001-05:00

Perhaps you noticed that I purchased a URL for my blog (www.saraellend.com) a few months ago. After some deliberation, I have decided this weekend to finally move my blog from Blogger to Tumblr. I am currently waiting for my URL to finish propagating and then I will put the re-direct on here as a final post on Blogger and move over to Tumblr.

A few of the reasons I have decided to move include the ease of use of Tumblr amd the fact that I have been waiting for Blogger to come out with a decent app for Android and it just has not happened. So in honor of trying to simplify, I will be moving... so please pardon the mess. I have great things in store to write about and share, as soon as I get settled in to the new home!

Thanks for reading and stay tuned for more adventures! SaraEllenD

{ From then to Now.... }

2011-06-13T14:31:00.002-05:00

It's been a busy few weeks...more soon.

{ It's a Beautiful Day }

2011-05-19T16:18:00.000-05:00

A friend of mine told me about this video during a long conversation we had the other night.
It's all about perspective.

{ Recent Thoughts on Being a Mommy }

2011-05-17T11:28:00.001-05:00

One big lesson I have learned since Drew came in to our lives 2 1/2 years ago is that things sometimes things just don't get done when you want them to. I am the type of person who likes to have everything in order as frequently as possible.

This often means dishes in the sink at bedtime...Sometimes ordering out when you really want to cook...it may mean playing trains or chase instead of folding laundry...and frequently means sleeping instead of getting some early morning exercise.

In the end, the letting go of the 'control' aspect is hard -- but totally worth it. The truth of the matter is God will never give you more than you can handle. Even on the hardest of days and greatest of sacrifices, we are so, so blessed.

Truth be told, this lesson somewhat applies to any stage of life. We have a tendency to get so caught up in what's going on at the time at most stages of our lives. I guess it maybe has just seemed a little more evident when you watch your baby grow in to a more independent 'big boy'.

Whatever the case, I am loving it.

{ Handmade Nation }

2011-05-12T10:54:00.000-05:00

I was lucky enough to get a break a few weekends ago to watch the documentary, Handmade Nation, which recounts the rise of the indie craft movement which has taken shape in the last several years. This topic happens to be what I researched for my thesis project three years ago, so it was of particular interest to me.

Director Faythe Levine traveled to 15 cities and covered more than 19,000 miles to interview artists, crafters, makers, curators and community members. Today’s craft world has emerged as a synthesis of historical technique, punk culture, and the DIY ethos, also influenced by traditional handiwork, modern aesthetics, politics, feminism and art. She visits artists who sell through both websites, blogs, and online stores that connect to the greater public through independent

The film itself is only about an hour long, and was worth the time. It was an interesting reminder that the number of crafters like myself who would love to sell what they make, is more of a hobby than a way of sustainable living. More of a way of connecting with others and sharing their art or craft, than making a big profit. Some can do it, many will not.

"Craft is for people who were creative growing up as kids, and want to incorporate that in to their grown up lives."

{ Homemade Black Bean Burgers }

2011-05-09T10:33:00.001-05:00

{ Made with recipe via Angry Chicken and the help of a Tiny Chef }

{ Belated 30th Celebration Recap }

2011-05-03T16:53:00.009-05:00

I was somewhat unsure about being thirty, even if I didn't want to admit it. Everyone kept asking me what I was going to do to celebrate. I'd just shrug it off and reply that I didn't want to do anything crazy or have a big party. I imagined that it would be best celebrated by seeing some of my favorite people and relaxing. It went a little something like this:

1. A day of fun adventures with my Mom & two of my sisters (Friday, 4/1)
2. Lunch with one of my favorite Chicagoans (Sat, 4/2)
3. Sushi at Seksui & a few pints at Urban Chestnut with Ryan (Sat, 4/2)
4. Brunch at Three Monkeys with my in laws (Sun, 4/3)
5. Pizza and Thirty things of 30 with my best friends (my parents!) (Sun, 4/3)
6. Surprise party thrown by my family a week later! (Sat, 4/10)

You can view more of my thirtieth celebrations here.

The best present is always to have so many wonderful people to celebrate with. Thirty -- maybe you aren't going to be that bad after all!

{ Currents:: 4.14.11 }

2011-04-14T09:38:00.001-05:00

listening:: Jamiriquai

eating:: fresh, homemade berry smoothie

drinking:: plain ole water

feeling:: thankful

weather:: springy

wanting:: to finish scanning the very last 25 pages of my scrapbook & call it a finished project.

needing:: to write a few posts about all the 30th Birthday celebrations I had this month!

thinking:: about the weekend and how the go go go of the weekdays pauses then.

enjoying:: the idea that Ryan will be done with school in THREE weeks. YAY. YAY. YAY.

wondering:: what flowers to plant in all my empty pots for the summer.

craft project in the queue:: finishing up the homemade bunny for Drew this Easter

Artwork by Cody Haltom

{ Six is a SERIOUS Number }

2011-04-05T10:42:00.000-05:00

My sister and brother in law worked on the Mobil on the Run "Six is a Serious Number" Spot recently. It plays at Busch Stadium during every home game and on local TV during Cardinals Games. Caron drew the story boards, choreographed the rappers, and art directed the edit. Bryan was the editor and motion graphic/3D artist.
It also features my giant #1 Cardinals finger that I lent them. Watch for it!

This was the very first 6 is a Serious Number commercial from two years ago that gets stuck in my head all. the time. It's the fingers on your hand plus your thumber.

Good Job, Car and Bry! I can't wait to see it on the screen at the stadium!

{ Thirty }

2011-03-31T14:25:00.000-05:00

{ More In the Cloud }

2011-03-29T09:09:00.001-05:00

Amazon released it's new cloud drive this week in to which you can upload (up to 5G for free) any music, pictures, files or videos that you wish.

They also created a Cloud Player for the web and Android that streams your uploaded music right back to you. Buy one new Amazon MP3 album, and you upgrade to 20 GB. Additional storage space can be purchased on annual fee basis. Following that, any new music you purchase through Amazon.com is automatically sent to your cloud playlist and does not count towards your storage space limit.

I had previously tried an app called MSpot, which uploads music only files to the cloud, but had issues with it syncing properly. Have you used any similar services, such as Windows Live SkyDrive, or Dropbox? What are your reviews for cloud storage services?

{ My Morning Smoothie }

2011-03-25T11:15:00.000-05:00

So it's been a few weeks (and a whole lot more sleep), but I found something tasty to drink in the AM that is not coffee. I have been making mango/banana/berry smoothies!

If you use frozen fruit, you don't have to add ice to the mix. I use 1/2 cup of milk, 1/2 cup plain or vanilla yogurt and whatever fruit your heart desires.

Blend, pour and enjoy!

{ Happy St. Patty's Day }

2011-03-17T16:55:00.000-05:00

On the way to the parade...

Waiting for the parade... bubbles!

A little hurling while still waiting for the parade!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

{ Digitally Archiving My Scrapbooks }

2011-03-16T16:27:00.001-05:00

I am currently undertaking the task of scanning in all my scrapbook pages as a part making a digital archive of ALL my pictures. I guessed (liberally) that I have about 300 scrapbook pages made -- from about 2002 to present. Because our scanner is for an 8.5" by 11" page, I have to scan each 12" x 12" scrapbook page in four times and then digitally 'stitch' them back together. The great news is I am about half way done with the scanning part and am having SO much fun looking through all of them. This one is from our trip to the UK in September 2007.

[ Me Minus Coffee ]

2011-03-15T10:40:00.000-05:00

Last Wednesday was Ash Wednesday. This year for Lent, I decided I should to give up coffee and soda. Truth be told I do go to bed later than I should most days and expect myself to get up early and go the gym still on the weekdays. Then we had the time change this weekend --minus coffee! It has made me realize that I might rely on caffeine more than I should and has made me wonder if I need more sleep than I am getting.

According to the National Sleep Foundation:

Sleep needs vary across ages and are especially impacted by lifestyle and health. Thus, to determine how much sleep you need, it's important to assess not only where you fall on the "sleep needs spectrum," but also to examine what lifestyle factors are affecting the quality and quantity of your sleep such as work schedules and stress. To get the sleep you need, you must look at the big picture.

Though research cannot pinpoint an exact amount of sleep need by people at different ages, the following table identifies the "rule-of-thumb" amounts most experts have agreed upon. Most importantly, make sleep a priority. You must schedule sleep like any other daily activity, so put it on your "to-do list" and cross it off every night. But don’t make it the thing you do only after everything else is done – stop doing other things so you get the sleep you need.

Um, Does this mean I get to tell my boss I need a mid-day nap? Have you ever suffered from caffeine withdrawal? Or have any good tips for avoiding coffee and soda? I am just not a big water drinker!

{ First Bike Outing: 2011}

2011-03-08T15:13:00.002-06:00

About a month ago, the weather was actually warmer than it was today. We were cautiously optimistic that spring would be coming soon. We tuned up our bikes (more like my bike and Drew's carrier, since Ryan bike commutes) and headed to Forest Park -- more importantly the destination being the Forest Park playground. Drew is getting more and more brave about climbing and sliding than he was last year. He did not stop squealing with excitement until we left.

I, myself, am a fair weather biker... but will be ready to roll, or should I say bike, again once spring does 'officially' arrive in 2011.

{ Happiness Project Follow Up: Accountability }

2011-03-07T14:56:00.003-06:00

I am about 4 chapters in to The Happiness Project and enjoying it. Gretchen Rubin writes as if you she were speaking a conscious stream of thoughts to you as she moves through the days and months of the year full of resolutions to make herself happier. I appreciated how she begins by saying that she was not particularly unhappy or depressed, she just wondered if she could appreciate her life more and live in happier fashion. While reading this book, I am not aiming to start my own happiness project in and of itself, but it is making me think more about accountability and making sure that I am appreciating all the blessings in my own life and not forgetting my continuous desire to learn, grow, and create.

One things she speaks about is accountability these goals. Coincidentally last fall this was something that I had decided to focus on myself! Although, I am not always as faithful to keeping up with my daily 'check in' to these goals, I have them there when I can as a reminder. You can download my easy, accountability sheet here. It's a half page, simple list - with days/dates down the left side and things I want to work on/do at the top. When I complete one of those objectives for the day, I put an 'X' in the box. I keep this in my planner and attempt to fill it out as I go along.

My sister, Caron, had also shared with me the Happiness Project Toolbox, a free collection of eight online tools that will help you be happier now. These tools will help you set goals, keep your resolutions, articulate your values, and pull together material that inspires you. Your "happiness project" is supposed to be your own project to take specific steps to boost your happiness, through helping you identify changes in your life that might make you happier. In the Using the Toolbox section, she poses some prompting questions which might make you think a little more.

What helps keep you accountable to your goals and resolutions? Have any tools of your own to share?

{ Shop Updates: Coming Soon }

2011-03-06T13:39:00.002-06:00

I've been working hard, friends! Now I just need to get them all uploaded!! Visit the shop soon. :)

{ Matt & Kim ...Coming to STL! }

2011-03-02T15:30:00.000-06:00

My husband's friend, Mark, has introduced to some cool new music in the last year, one of which was Matt & Kim. We just found out recently they will be playing a show at the Pageant in the Loop and tickets go on sale tomorrow at 12 noon. This news made my day!

Their bio from the Pageant website:

Matt and Kim aren’t a typical band and this isn’t going to read like your average biography. For example, although Matt and Kim know they met while taking classes at Pratt Institute in New York, Kim’s not sure what year she graduated, let alone when they decided to start playing music as a two-piece. What they do know is that when Matt and Kim started out approximately four years ago, they had no idea how to play their respective instruments—a fact that makes the band’s success story almost as unique as their distinctive brand of synth-and-drums dance punk. The result is an album that takes the band’s musicianship and songwriting to the next level and also serves as a glowing representation of how far Matt and Kim have come since their debut. From the anthemic opener “Daylight” to the harmony-rich, atmospheric ballad “Turn This Boat Around” and demented pop of “I Wanna,” Grand is quite literally the sound of the collective discovering their voice. “All of the songs on the last album we wrote the first year we learned how to play our instruments,” Matt acknowledges, “but this one is much more diverse and instead of thinking about the songs we thought of the album as a whole, too.” Then there are the band’s legendary live shows, which look more like dance parties than traditional concerts and blur the line between musician and listener. “I really believe that a band should be honest when they play,” Matt explains. “Kim and I are generally just excited to play; I mean I cannot believe that I can make a living off playing music, which is what I get to do now; it’s just so incredible,” he continues. “We’re excited just to be able to play and we show it, as dorky as that can look.”

{ My Viking Heritage }

2011-03-02T11:00:00.000-06:00

Over the weekend, we watched a few episodes of the NBC Show Who Do You Think You Are?. The show is based off of a British program, where they trace the genealogy and family tree of celebrities.

We watched Season 2 episodes featuring Rosie O'Donnell, Vanessa Williams and Kim Catrall --travelling over the U.S., Britain and Ireland to trace their roots and meet extended family.

While I have a general idea of my family origins, I think this is a project I'd like to work on together with my immediate family on. The show has sponsored product placement for Ancestry.com in each episode. A local story appeared on NewsChannel 5 St. Louis recently about how easy the site is to use.

I remember hearing one time on my Dad's side of the family that we had a tiny bit of Norwegian in us. For this reason, I like to joke about my hardy 'viking heritage'. And until I can really prove that I am not, I will continue to pretend that I've got it!

{ Life is Not a Race...}

2011-02-28T15:06:00.003-06:00

How dare spring to tempt us a couple weeks ago, then turn cold again! I have to admit, I am really ready for spring to arrive -- I'm a springtime kind of gal.

I was having a conversation with a girlfriend the other day and I told her things seemed a little Groundhog Day-ish. (note: I have since learned from Wikipedida that The phrase "Groundhog Day" has entered common use as a reference to an unpleasant situation that continually repeats, or seems to. ) Life has not been unpleasant, so I guess I can't really use the term any more. I should just say I feel sort of in a rut. I don't really like to sit still, or even feel like I'm running in place!

To be honest, I didn't really think it had much with the fact that my 30th birthday was around the corner in a month or so, until this weekend. I have been working on archiving all my digital pictures online (a huge project!) as a back up to our hard drives and CDs they are on. Then it dawned on me! If the first 30 years of my life are any foreshadowing of what the next 30 years or more of my life, God willing, are to be like -- then it's going to be a heck of a lot of fun.

Minus the storms that quickly came through last night, it was a fairly quiet weekend. I know that we do already have all, if not more than we need, now I just need to trust and be patient. Things will come along as they are meant to. Life's not a race. And sometimes, not much going on -- shouldn't be a lot to complain about.

{ Wait a second...}

2011-02-17T09:52:00.001-06:00

Do you ever have those moments when you do a double take and have to stop and ask yourself how you missed something the first time? I have been on a de-cluttering kick and it's always a good feeling.

A few months ago I found this post on Zen Habits about identifying clutter in your life. The age old question of, if the house was on fire, what are the five things you would grab and run out with? I remembered this post about de-cluttering because I had forwarded it to a few people when I initially found it and so I pulled it back up today. Coincidentally the author of the post actually was Gretchen Rubin, author of the book The Happiness Project, which I had just read a sample of with the idea of buying it as my next read.

Have you read The Happiness Project? What did you think?

{ WWF + Mspot }

2011-02-16T09:31:00.003-06:00

Guess what?? Words with Friends is now available on Android. My username is SaraEllenD.

I also discovered a cool app called MSpot that will stream your music on your home PC (up to 2G for free), and then you can access it from the cloud. Very cool!!

{ Happy Valentine's Day - Love! }

2011-02-14T15:46:00.000-06:00

Loving all the extra laughs from Drew's adventures.
Loving the realization of the tiny joys all around us that we fail to see from day to day.

Loving that I've been using our DSLR to capture some memories this year so far.

Loving that we had some snow, but that the cold weather is on it's way out.

Loving that I can make time to send some more cards in the mail. { Sending some Love }

Loving this Valentine wallpaper I found via How About Orange this morning.

Loving that we are all almost finally healthy at my house for the first time in over a month.

Here's to a LOVELY Valentine's Day to you too!

{ Dancers Among Us }

2011-01-26T13:42:00.000-06:00

Pairing my love for dance (as a former dancer) and my love for NYC, this made me smile big. Many thanks to Ryan for sharing this post he found on Design Work Life. The series is titled Dancers Among Us by Jordan Matter.

{ A Trip to Scotland }

2011-01-25T15:24:00.001-06:00

In honor of today being Robert Burn's Day, January 25th, we put out our Scotland flag at home and I posted some pictures to Flickr from our trip to Edinburgh, Scotland in September of 2007. While we were only there for a brief two day stint, it was long enough to make us fall in love with Scotland.

It was the start of fall when we arrived on a misty afternoon bus ride from the airport. We stayed at the Scotsman Hotel which was in between the old town and new town. The pints were fresh and the city was vibrant. We definitely look forward to returning one day in the future to see more of this beautiful country.

While I wish we were making our way to celebrate Robert Burn's Night at the Schlafly Taproom tonight, we will be toasting our pints at home. I may even make some Oatmeal Short Bread if we have time! Slainte!

{ Want to see more of Edinburgh? Samantha Brown did a show on her visit shortly after we were there. Take a peek! }

{ Capsicum }

2011-01-24T11:45:00.003-06:00

Yesterday I prepped for Pulled Pork Tacos to go in the crockery cooker. I completely forgot once again what happened the last time I chopped and seeded the chili peppers to go in to the sauce for the recipe. The palms of my hands were burning! During the previous encounter I had following dicing chili peppers for a recipe I realized it when I took out my contacts before going to bed. That was just great because then not only was capsicum on my hands still, but on my contacts and in my eyes. Not a good feeling!

As a reminder wear rubber gloves when you chop chili peppers or try to use utensils to handle the prep work without coming in to contact with your skin if possible. If you need to neutralize the oils, washing your hands with regular soap and water won't usually cut it! Capsaicinoids are not soluble in water, but they are soluble in fats and alcohol. The solutions involving alcohols do a good job of washing it off. A few other suggestions I found were milk, Crisco, vaseline or hand sanitizer (like Purell). Publish Post

Capsicum is a genus of flowering plants in the nightshade family, Solanaceae. Its species are native to the Americas, where they have been cultivated for thousands of years by the people of the tropical Americas, and are now cultivated worldwide. Some of the members of Capsicum are used as spices, vegetables, and medicines. The fruit of Capsicum plants have a variety of names depending on place and type. They are commonly called chilli pepper, red or green pepper, or sweet pepper in Britain, and typically just capsicum in Australian, New Zealand, and Indian English.

{ Happy Snow Day }

2011-01-20T11:35:00.000-06:00

It cracks me up everytime a snow storm 'might hit' the St. Louis metro area. Earlier this week they said it was going to snow a few inches and it rained. I'd venture to say we accumulated about 4 inches of snow at our house in South City before we left the house this morning, although it was still coming down when we left.

Drew's daycare was off school, since he had a snow day and Grammy was off work -- she said she'd take the little snow bear for the day. And so Ryan and I ventured to work, even if the rest of St. Louis didn't. The roads were not in good shape, so it's no wonder all the schools -- over 900 were out today! It's almost like MoDot stayed home today too. Awesome huh?

Happy Snow Day!

{ trip to the post office }

2011-01-19T15:36:00.002-06:00

Today I was waiting in line at the post office to pick up a package that was attempted to be delivered to our house yesterday and required a signature. The postcard left instead of the package said that it would be at our local post office today after 10 am. Lunchtime may not have been the best time to go, but the task was on my list and I wanted to get the package and be done with it.

Waiting in line in front of me were several interesting people as usual. The particular party waiting in front of me made me smile. There was one Chinese man, and two Chinese ladies with an adorable little girl who I would venture to guess was about a year old. They were filling out and turning in paperwork to request a passport. In genuine form the postal clerk was asking them many interesting questions which took a while for them to process, as their English was not that great. A few of them included if they were married, when they were married, the color of the baby's eyes and how tall she was. The 'blond' eyed baby, which they confused with brown, was then layed out on the counter and all three of them measured her with a ruler. The baby was looking around like 'what the heck is going on', but didn't make a peep.

Soon it was my turn and I stopped gazing at what they were up to. This experience led me to a few conclusions.

How much we take for granted being native speakers of the English language.
How much I love the diversity of the area I live in.
People watching is an interesting pastime.
That if I ever write a book, I might just sit at the post office and observe people. You will be guaranteed find some pretty interesting characters to write about!

{ Today I bought my first Ebook and I'm Starting with Maya }

2011-01-18T15:40:00.003-06:00

Synopsis

Sent by their mother to live with their devout, self-sufficient grandmother in a small Southern town, Maya and her brother, Bailey, endure the ache of abandonment and the prejudice of the local “powhitetrash.” At eight years old and back at her mother’s side in St. Louis, Maya is attacked by a man many times her age–and has to live with the consequences for a lifetime. Years later, in San Francisco, Maya learns about love for herself and the kindness of others, her own strong spirit, and the ideas of great authors (“I met and fell in love with William Shakespeare”) will allow her to be free instead of imprisoned.

Poetic and powerful, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings is a modern American classic that will touch hearts and change minds for as long as people read.

{ Learning how to Eread }

2011-01-14T15:29:00.005-06:00

Two weeks ago I purchased a Nook eReader after looking at them and waiting and waiting and waiting! I finally decided that I didn't really need a color version or a touch screen in order for the ereader to meet my needs. I wanted it to be compatible with our St. Louis Public Library's ebook lending program, as well as to be able to read blogs and PDFs on it without a problem. I learned that I could purchase a certified pre-owned Nook for about $50 cheaper than the new ones with the same guarantee, through BN.com. The hardest part of it all was waiting for it to come in the mail.

So far, so good. So it's been about two weeks now and I have yet to purchase my first ebook because so many are available free online. Another neat fact about ebooks is that you can get a 'sample' of the first 12 to 15 pages of the book to see if you really like it.

I hope to within the next week make it in to a Barnes & Noble store, where they apparently give you some discounts and updates on books just for showing up in their store through their More InStore promotion.

Currently I have downloaded Focus by Leo Babautua, Focus is about finding simplicity in this Age of Distraction. It’s about finding the focus you need to create, to work on what’s important, to reflect, to find peace.

{ Seeking Omelet Insight... }

2011-01-11T10:15:00.005-06:00

This past Sunday I started working on my goal to learn to make a great omelet. I know one of the keys to something like this is practice, practice, practice!

I followed instructions per the Better Homes and Gardens Cookbook, but somehow it was not as 'together' as I think it should be. Any advice or tips to try this weekend?

{ Adventures in Goals - 2011 STYLE }

2011-01-07T16:33:00.002-06:00

If there is one thing I love about the start of a new year, it's the idea to start new with a fresh set of goals. I like to set five goals for a six month period and then see how close I can come to completing them. The past few years I would say I have about a 50% success rate, but the truth is some of those I have actually completed I may not have if I hadn't agreed to attempt them! So while my husband sometimes accuses me of 'overscheduling', it's because I just like to do things + see people and then try to do more that I can on top of that. As Lifehacker says: A personal goals program is a training regimen for your mind: it makes you visualize a finish line in a better place than the one you're in now, and it helps you get there.

{ My FIVE GOALS from January to June 2011 }

1. WRITE MORE frequently... letters. blog. at work. in my journal at home. Just write more!

2. Update my Etsy shop at least once per month. Try to get 10 sales by June 2011.

3. CREATE just because! Scrapbook less. Take more pictures. Write more. Just for a change of pace.

4. Be STILL more often. Seek time for peace + quiet each week. To think. To read. To pray. To not over schedule!

5. Learn to make a great omelet!

Bonus goal: STRETCH more...Work on becoming more flexible again. (Boo. This is what happens when I lift and don't stretch as much as I should!)

What are your newest 5 goals or things you want to do or learn this year?You will be surprised at your ability to do and accomplish things you really would not have considered previously. Lastly, post your list somewhere that you can see it and review every couple days. If you want to be more accountable - share it with others and work together!

{ So Long Farewell...2010 }

2011-01-03T16:40:00.002-06:00

{ Fake NYE 2011 + Auld Lang Syne }

2011-01-02T09:13:00.001-06:00

I was fortunate enough to be off work the whole week between Christmas and New Year's this year. Drew and I spent most of the week playing cars/trains and spent alot of time our pajamas.

I have to admit that this year though, Ryan and I might have created one of my newest favorite traditions...fake holidays! So rather than going out on NYE to celebrate the occasion, we celebrated by going out on Tuesday night for Fake New Year's Eve! We had dinner at Mojo's Tapas on South Grand and then to Bridge Tap House & Wine Bar on Locust. Mojo's was tasty for sure... even better with the Groupon we purchased a while back! Bridge was absolutely awesome. They have 55 beers on tap.. which come in many sizes -- as small as 4 oz. and as large as 64 oz! If you get a chance to go there... do it!

To celebrate the actual day of NYE, I made this Red Wine Beef Stew with potatoes and green beans that we love and we had The New Belgium Brewery Sampler Pack -- with my favorite Belgium style ale -- The Trippel! Drew stayed up until about 10:30 PM and hit the sack after playing cars all evening. Ryan and I found a new show on Hulu called Three Sheets and also watched a bit of Know Your Meme on you You Tube. I recommend both if you are looking for something rather entertaining.

Ryan had voiced his opinion to make it a tradition to sing Auld Lang Syne, so we printed the words expecting it to be on some live TV show. The funnier part was that we couldn't find one, so we looked it up quickly on You Tube and rang in 2011...as a rerun of 2008 in London. ( See words below. ) The timing of the video was almost in sync with Central Standard Time when we pulled it up on the TV!

Speaking of this...did you know that Auld Lang Syne was written by the great Scottish Poet, Robert Burns? Which speaking of if you are in STL and have never attended Burns Night at Schlafly... you have to! This year it's on a Tuesday, always on January 25th. It's always a fun, loose evening, the event encompasses the whole of life's emotions in one evening. There is the serious thought provoking speech (of course laced with humour) along with song, nostalgia, merriment, satire, wit, happiness and sadness.

Auld Lang Syne

Should old acquaintance be forgot,

and never brought to mind ?

Should old acquaintance be forgot,

and old lang syne ?

For auld lang syne, my dear,

for auld lang syne,

we'll take a cup of kindness yet,

for auld lang syne.

And surely you’ll buy your pintcup !

and surely I’ll buy mine !

And we'll take a cup o’ kindness yet,

for auld lang syne.

We two have run about the slopes,

and picked the daisies fine ;

But we’ve wandered many a weary foot,

since auld lang syne.

We two have paddled in the stream, from morning sun till dine;

But seas between us broad have roared

since auld lang syne.

And there’s a hand my trustyfriend ! And give us a hand o’ thine !

And we’ll take a right good-will draught,

for auld lang syne.

Merry & Bright : Christmas 2010 *

2010-12-30T15:27:00.012-06:00

* Hope your Holidays were Merry & Bright! Wishes for a Joy filled 2011 to you. { It's right around the corner. } *

Celebrate like a Sweede *

2010-12-08T14:59:00.000-06:00

Somehow I managed to get on the VisitSweeden.com email list, which makes me laugh everytime they arrive in my inbox. ( That and TourismFiji.com ) Don't get me wrong, both places I would really like to go to someday.

But in the spirit of Christmas and sharing, I thought you might like this resource and another one I found on IKEA, titled Celebrate the Holidays like a Sweede.

Now excuse me while I get back to drinking my Glögg, baking Lucia buns, and writing my rimstugas before Christmas arrives.

December Daily 2010 *

2010-12-03T11:22:00.009-06:00

Last year I attempted something that I am glad I did, called the December Daily. December Daily is a way to celebrate the traditions and everyday blessings during the month of December. And what mine turned out as last year was more of collection of small stories and blurbs about what our Advent & Christmas seasons are all about in our world.

This year I am attempting to run mine in a slightly different fashion. In fact, my scrapbooks this year have been different than in years past under the inspiration of a scrapbook kit called Project Life, but in my own way. I have focused more on just saving items from places we've been and things we've seen and making small collages to fit in pocketed scrapbook pages like this one, than adding pictures and journaling more. I plan to use Big Huge Labs to make 12 x 12 mosaic collage prints of my 2010 Flickr record, then printing them using Persnickity Prints.

So back to the December Daily... I'm using baseball card protector pages! Then stamped the date on these round white stickers and stuck them in their own little pockets, so it is all ready to go. Starting at Thanksgiving and going until New Year's day, I will add pictures, small stories and scraps to them until we reach 2011.

Doing this exercise last year made me realize how much I was missing out on capturing during the busy day to day, real life of what our holiday traditions are. I hope I am able to capture even more of the magic this year with our curious 2 year old. It's over in a blink of an eye, so you have to enjoy it while you can.

So Much to be Thankful For *

2010-11-29T11:17:00.000-06:00

Guest Post: Because who doesn't love the smell of materialism in the morning?

2010-11-24T16:32:00.001-06:00

I came across this and just *had* to share. I feel like every year we all moan about how "Christmas" (the secular, consumer-centric part) keeps starting earlier and earlier and no where is this more prevalent than with Black Friday madness.

And I admit, I kind of enjoy Black Friday-- mostly I like to get a cup of coffee and people watch because when you spend Thanksgiving in a small town (as I am this year) BF is a BIG deal and people come from literally miles around to go to Target/Walmart/Best Buy/ Name-the-big-box-store-here to score some sweet deals. And this makes for MOST excellent people watching. Seriously.

And I am a gift-giver. I love to think about the receiver and what s/he would enjoy and I start shopping for Christmas in, like, July. And I also love to get a good deal (hello, bargain shopping!).

But the line must be drawn somewhere before things spin out of control into a big messy pile of excess and waste and, well, stuff.

And if you don't believe me, watch this:

I mean, seriously? No. Seriously?!?!

The kicker, for me, is that the woman doesn't even know what the sales are yet. She's giving up half of her week to wait for something she may or may not even want. And probably doesn't really "need." Sad, no?

I know times are hard and everyone wants to give their families a "nice Christmas" or at least a gift that means something or that someone wants. I get that desire, I do. But here's the thing: THERE. IS. ENOUGH.

Pardon the mess for a bit*

2010-11-23T13:50:00.001-06:00

I have long since hoped to update the design + focus of my blog, as well as streamline it. So please bear with me here for a day or so, while I get it figured out! To make up for it, I shall wear this pilgrim hat to distract you! ( Did it work? ) xo

A reason to celebrate...*

2010-11-18T13:43:00.000-06:00

HAPPY BEAUJOLAIS NOUVEAU DAY!!!!! Beaujolais Nouveau is a red wine made from Gamay grapes produced in the Beaujolais region of France. It is the most popular vin de primeur, fermented for just a few weeks then officially released for sale on the third Thursday of November....and that day is today!!

I'm hoping to swing by Saint Louis Cellars after my work trip tonight to get some. :)

Currents *

2010-11-15T15:49:00.000-06:00

listening:: Weepies – Hideaway album
eating:: homemade trail mix… thinking of my crockery roast for dinner though!
drinking:: green tea
wearing:: long sleeved red sweater // black pants // t-strap mary jane heels
feeling:: elated Monday work day is almost over
weather:: a little crisp, but sunny before it just is about sunset here in STL.
wanting:: See Drew so I can show him his new shoes that light up!
needing:: Do a little more work here before 5 PM instead of blogging. (Whoops.)
thinking:: About craft projects // House projects // Time off next week to play!
enjoying:: Change in season // Turkey Day upon us // Drew + our family time at home
wondering:: When my first etsy sale will come...

Announcing Digital Photo Cards *

2010-11-10T16:24:00.006-06:00

www.etsy.com/shop/saraellend

Drumroll....*

2010-11-07T17:13:00.002-06:00

Announcing the opening of my Etsy Shop!

More news on this soon...YAY!

Never stop learning *

2010-11-04T15:34:00.001-05:00

My parents have always said 'be a lifelong learner'. Which of course, sometimes sounds not all that exciting. The fact of the matter is that learning is really fun.

I finished my MBA over 2 years ago (which is hard to believe). I have enjoyed the freedom of reading whatever I want, when I want. Since having signed up for this e-course, I have been doing some critical thinking. Some creative writing. Some pondering. And have really, really, really been enjoying it! Learning alot from others. Remembering things I myself forgot. It's a neat feeling when you can find like-minded people along the way.

Never. Stop. Learning!

Needing a weekend to recover from the weekend *

2010-11-01T14:00:00.003-05:00

We started the Halloween festivities on Thursday, with Boo at the Zoo. Friday night we crafted Ryan's 'treasure chest' for the Halloween party at our friends' house on Saturday night. Saturday afternoon Drewman and I ventured to Purina Farms to visit the animals and for Quincy (Rikki's niece)'s birthday. I still cannot believe he actually got a spider painted on his hand... he normally doesn't go for that sort of stuff. Sunday morning we went on the bike tour of Bellefontaine Cemetary, which was awesome! After naps we carved pumpkins, and waited for the 'treaters' (as he calls them). The pirate costume made it on for about an hour... long enough for pictures a good game of chase!

I have a Declaration to Make *

2010-10-28T10:48:00.002-05:00

I have long since wanted to take an e-course through many of the blogs on my Google reader. On one of the blogs, I found something silly about this contest giving away a spot for an e-course called The Declaration of YOU! from two creative bloggers, one a designer and another a creative career coach. While I did not win a free spot in the e-course, I kept getting emails from these two e-course leaders marketing it and would immediately think... no, I don't really have time for this. The course actually started on Sunday. Tuesday morning I received another email with the subject that said OK, You Can STILL Register for The Declaration of You, But Be Snappy About It! I took it as a sign, and now I'm enrolled. I have just about figured out how to use the private class site and can't wait to get caught up on what I am behind on. We need a kick start from time to time. I have to admit, creatively speaking, I have been dragging my feet some. Expect in the next four weeks for there to be a little off-the-wall stuff on here perhaps. And then before thanksgiving... A declaration of ME!

That's a Wrap *

2010-10-25T12:38:00.002-05:00

A few weeks ago I finished reading, No Impact Man, after hearing about it a on a blog I like to read. A book about the adventures of a guilty liberal who attempts to save the planet and discoveries he makes about himself and our way of life in the process.

While I am not quite ready to make the plunge of living without electricity after it gets dark outside or only taking the stairs, the book certainly made me think about what we consume. Just how much packaging is on everything we buy -- not just food. As well as how 'disposable' and auto centric our society has become. So much so that it has changed the way we live as a society and that it has become the norm.

Don't get me wrong, I am not about to only eat what comes out of my own garden, because if that were the case I might starve. But making small conscious changes can make a difference in the end can't it?

Right before I had Drew and was pregnant the BPA scare came about. Not realizing what was in the plastic food containers at our house, we threw out all gladware and stopped using baggies. We have been using Pyrex which works great most of the time. It's getting heavy for Ryan though, who is almost officially biking to work 5 days per week since he can take his MBA class at Webster's downtown campus for the next two sessions. So my next crafty experiment is to try to make some sort of sandwich re-usable wrap similar to these I found on etsy. I think I can make some myself to try. What do I have to loose if I try and it is a fail?

I have been trying to pay closer attention to where the food I buy at the store has come from. I made a recipe from Martha Stewart Food Magazine that required pink lady apples. The pink lady apples from my local Shop N Save had travelled over 12825 kilometers or 7970 miles or 6925 nautical miles according to timeanddate.com.

I have been trying to not let any food go to waste... meaning making all the recipes I say I am going to and if not making something else with the produce before it goes bad. My new food processor has helped with this, of course. I purree just about everything I can these days!

Pumpkin Pancakes *

2010-10-18T13:56:00.004-05:00

Pumpkin Pancakes - 10.18.10 from Sara Dannan on Vimeo.

Looking for Healthy & Fresh Lunch Box Ideas *

2010-09-22T13:07:00.001-05:00

I am in need of new ideas of what to pack in our lunches. We try to avoid pre-packaged items like chips, fruit cups and pudding for the most part. Leftovers from dinner sometimes work. We don't like to do the frozen entree deal either, even though it's quick.

I pack lunches in the morning, the day of. My lunch usually consists of a yogurt, a string cheese, some cut up fruit (apple, orange, peach), a wrap or sandwich (varies) and maybe some trail mix.

I want a healthy and fresh lunch. Any ideas or resources I should check out? I have googled aimlessly and I feel like the answers are redundant and leave me no where. Help!

My old mug *

2010-09-21T08:47:00.002-05:00

My Mom and Dad recently had their kitchen completely rennovated. In the process of going through of the old 'treasures' we stumbled upon this one. It now resides at my office.

Posted via email from Sara Ellen

UPDATED 9/22: The picture originally didn't upload correctly. Thanks to my avid blog reader, Dad, for pointing this out to me. Now it's fixed! Cheers. S

Me: Lately *

2010-09-20T11:28:00.000-05:00

1. In the past month we celebrated a few weddings of dear friends. One local and one in Chicagoland area. It was great to celebrate their day with them, as they both have with us. As well as to visit with some friends who were there as well!

2. Started travelling a bit for work for the next few weeks --all local/regional. My first stop was Mizzou. I also hit UMSL, Truman State, SIUE, SIUC, SLU and Wash U.

3. I got a bit nostalgic at Mizzou… not going to lie. It was one of the first times since graduating I have been there without Ryan or Ryan and Drew or Ryan, Drew and some of my family. First time I visited without rushing in and rushing out of Columbia. It was somewhat surreal to me, to walk around campus. It was where I grew. Grew up. Got homesick. Then called Columbia home. Was awkward at first arriving, to become confident upon leaving. Learned who I was. Became who I wanted to be. Fell in love. Made lifelong friends. Left after realizing how quickly it all happened. It was so much fun. Realized again that life changes you in ways you never expect, then realize you will never be the same.

4. In the past month learned that TWO of my good friends are pregnant, and in the next month another one is due. Just like I had a new found appreciation for weddings once I was married myself, I love love love sharing my perspective on being a mama. So very exciting.

5. Last weekend I learned to successfully bake scones. Chocolate chip, of course! It’s just the basic recipe out of the Better Homes & Gardens cookbook.

6. Broke down and bought some Dansko clogs. My feet have been killing me since taking on this recruiting gig. So far, they are worth every penny!

7. Magic Hat Brewing variety pack is my newest fav. O’fallon’s Weach is just about out of season, but have yet to delve in to the O’fallon Pumpkin Brew. Need to get rid of this 90 degree weather in STL.

8. Friday night we went to the Forest Park Balloon Glow. Saturday was my nephew, Leo’s, 2nd birthday party.

9. Yesterday we went to ride the Open Streets, but the rain kept it from closing. They are all routes we have ridden before. There is another one on October 9th, if you wanted to join in!

10. Dabbled in a few sewing projects this weekend which turned in to a FAIL attempt, because I ran out of thread.

11. Still searching for the right food processor at the right price. Soon hoping to make a purchase while the list of recipes to make is growing at exponential rates.

12. I added a productivity category to my Google Reader. It’s a change of pace and I learning a lot. Thinking about more of less.

13. My sister started blogging again on a regular basis. Check it out.

14. We look forward to checking this place out soon: Handlebar in the Grove.

We are all about beer, bicycles, art, and a good time. Come in to find cleverly named (and tasty!) cocktails, enough local beer to make your head spin, and a welcoming atmosphere that will make you feel like a regular on your very first visit. HandleBar came to life in September of 2010, a locally owned home-bar for all bike riders to take a break and enjoy the celebration of their one true love - the bicycle. While HandleBar caters to urban bikers, we welcome everyone who steps through our door even if you haven't been on a bike for years . . . or ever. Be warned, however, it's hard not to be converted.

15. Lastly, thoroughly enjoying Starbucks Anniversary Blend bean. As it says on their website: We love nothing more than sharing this extraordinary coffee with people who are as mad for the bean as we are.

Happy Monday.

Current:: *

2010-08-26T14:00:00.002-05:00

listening:: Matt & Kim.
eating:: purple grapes.
drinking:: green tea with honey.
wearing:: black pants, cute sandals and a black & white flowy top.
feeling:: ~~content.~~ excited!
weather:: the sun is out -- 80 degrees and not a cloud in the sky!
wanting:: to be at the park & not at my desk.
needing:: to make a target run!
thinking:: happy thoughts.
enjoying:: a lot. too many to mention.
wondering:: how I can find more hours in the day to play or create.

He's TWO now *

2010-08-23T14:04:00.000-05:00

Sneak peek at my Drew's TWO year pictures... More soon.

{ Drew & Ryan at Carondelet Park. Photo credit: Aunt Caron (Arnold) }

Hit the REFRESH button *

2010-07-08T15:51:00.001-05:00

Over the long holiday weekend I was thinking about how here it is July already, which to me meant it was time to re-write my FIVE GOALS for the next six months. I like to set five goals for a six month period and then see how close I can come to completing them. Instead of re-doing my FIVE GOALS... I decided to just refresh and edit them for the next six months. Call it a 'renewal' if you will.

My FIVE GOALS from July to December 2010 -

1. Read at least ~~one~~ two books per month.

     2. Keep working out. ~~try to swim one day per week.~~
     3. Write. Draw. Create. -- Continue to practice creativity in some way each week with Drew.
     4. ~~Get caught up on 2009's scrapbook~~ Journal + scrapbook more.
     5. Do less -~~- try to not to overschedule~~ + go with the flow! ~~(* This is the hardest one for me!!)~~

What are your newest 5 goals or things you wanted to do or learn this year? It's not too late. It's never too late!! You will be surprised at your ability to do and accomplish things you really would not have considered previously. Lastly, post your list somewhere that you can see it and review every couple days. If you want to be more accountable - share it with others and work together!

The Wells Fargo Wagon *

2010-07-03T22:51:00.004-05:00

Today we were in the VP parade downtown with Ryan's work, Wells Fargo Advisors. It was a perfect sunny July day. We interviewed the stage coach driver and there are eleven Wells Fargo wagons that do events for the company across the country. He and his 6 horses are from Iowa. Funny enough -- he used to drive the Budweiser Clysdales! But in all seriousness, we walked behind the Wells Fargo Wagon, and, well, the pooper scoopers today in the VP Parade!

Growing up with my family we went to the parade and some of my old favorites are still in it! Remember the confetti fire brigade, the giant U.S. flag hanging over Market Street at Tucker from the firetruck ladders, the clowns on motorcycles, the old school Disney paper mache costumed characters & as well as the clown that walks on his hands? How fun!

Drew surprisingly didn't want to walk. It was no surprise that he didn't want to be in the stroller. He wanted to be held...but loved waving and loved being in the parade. In the words of my Dad, "Be Safe. Have Fun. In that order!". Happy 3rd of July!

Posted via email from Sara Ellen

Goodbye June, Hello July *

2010-07-02T14:15:00.000-05:00

One of the highlights of the month of June for me was going to visit my sister, brother in law and neices in KC at their Lake house. My parents, Ryan and Drew and I roadtriped it up there Friday afternoon and we had a blast. Last year we went camping at Bennett Springs and floated the Niangua River with my other sister and her family. This year we could not get the dates to work out for everyone -- so we compromised and went to Lake Lotawana.

Drewman had never been on a boat on a lake before and he thought it was great. He was not, however, so fond of the water! Which is funny... because he LOVES swimming. The three kiddos played pretty nicely all weekend, enjoyed playing ice cream stand and blowing bubbles. My brother in law bbq'd and we helped make Girl Scout 'swaps' for Reesie. It was a perfect weekend to go boating and swimming!

All in all June was the start to relaxing summer...and here's to more in July!

Make a Funny Face *

2010-07-01T16:20:00.003-05:00

Posted via email from Creative Adventures of Sara Ellen

I said..ok make a funny face! Here was his answer.

Catching Up *

2010-06-12T13:43:00.000-05:00

May ended and June started quicker than expected! Some of our family came in to town early to visit before my brother in law's wedding on June 5th. We were able to sneak in a bike ride to the Schlafly Taproom downtown, as well as to our new pool at the Carondelet YMCA RecPlex that opened that weekend!

The week of Memorial Day.. flew by with being off work on Monday for the holiday and then Friday... for Ben + Stephanie's rehearsal dinner. Luckily the weather was not as hot as it has been the past week or so.

Ben + Stephanie's wedding was so much fun. I have to admit that I am a sucker for weddings. I don't think I understood how much fun weddings really were until after Ryan and I got married. So much joy. So much family. So much planning. So much fun! And I now cannot refer to myself as the only S. Dannan... because my sister-in-law.. Stephanie Dannan is one too.

My parents watched Drew so that I could go on the party bus with Ryan and the newly weds, and wedding party. We had a fun time with everyone as we travelled downtown to take some pictures at Kiener Plaza, the Arch grounds and Union Station. I am thankful to be able to have done that. The reception was well planned ... as the dancing great! I more or less had to convince Ryan and Drew that it was time to go.. because I was one tired Mama. You can check out more pictures from the festivities here. Congrats Ben + Stephanie!

Back on the Bandwagon *

2010-05-18T09:35:00.000-05:00

It seems that ever since I had the flu a few weeks ago, I haven't been able to get back in the groove of my normal morning schedule. As a person who is a 'schedule' stickler, this is one of my worst nightmares! But alas, I have decided that despite the rainy weather or lack of sleep-- this is the week to get back on the bandwagon.

I realize that when I don't make it to the gym or out for a run, I am less good at just about everything. When I do however, even on the least motivated days, I am closer to being on time, more organized, more positive, have more energy. I do my job better, eat better, am a better wife/mom/friend/daughter/co-worker, manage time better, pray better, and sleep better!

What is it in your life that makes your day? Get back on the bandwagon, friends!

Back from Northern Iowa *

2010-05-10T16:23:00.006-05:00

We ventured to northern Iowa, Charles City to be exact, late last week for Ryan's Grandpa's 88th Birthday celebration. It was about a seven hour car ride, the longest we have taken since Drew has been around.

Luckily he took some good naps, but the sleeping part while we were there was sort of lacking. We had a nice time touring my mother-in-law's hometown, visiting with family, enjoying downtime playing while we were there, as well as chatting in the car and of course -- looking for trucks, buses, and construction equipment along the way.

You can check out more pictures of our trip here. Have a Good Day!

Five Good Things*

2010-05-05T15:05:00.008-05:00

+ I can’t get over how cute these ribbons are! Growing up.. and still today I make a lot of things out of paper just for the fun of it. This totally looks like something I would do!

+ O’Fallon Brewery’s Wheach Beer is in season and I had my first one of the summer last night. Mmmm!

+ I started piecing some custom sized cardboard boxes together for my craft room after reading this post. However, I am attempting to just use paper – not fabric. Cool, nonetheless if they work out. (more soon) Contemplating adding some Japanese masking tape to embellish them and add them to my growing list of craft supplies!

+ Looking forward to the time off during an upcoming roadtrip… to talk, read and relax. Many of my favorite childhood memories involve roadtrips with my family.

+ Lastly, I have been really enjoying a new group of girlfriends I’ve met and our weekly adventures together!

You Should Watch: Food, Inc.

2010-04-27T11:01:00.004-05:00

This past weekend, we watched Food, Inc. If you haven't seen it, I recommend watching it. Then afterwards think about how you might reconsider what it is that you consume on a daily basis. I was certainly surprised at some of things revealed in the documentary and am leaning towards becoming a flexitarian again.

I have written previously about the Slow Food Movement and Flexitarianism. I think if most people lived by the quote of "you are what you eat", they would not like themselves if they knew the truth behind the production and journey of most of their food.

We also recently watched a few episodes of Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution, which shows first hand how Americans do not take issue with some of their eating habits and their ignorance to changing their ways despite seeing the effects of it in real peoples' lives.

Well, That Didn't Take Long.

2010-04-18T10:38:00.003-05:00

If at first you don't succeed, try, try again.

I received this what was once a blooming, green and pink New Guinea Impatient hanging basket for my birthday from my mother in law and managed to kill it in two weeks.

So much for the resolution in my 29th year to not kill plants!

But, lucky for me...I can try, try again -- Thanks to Lowes! This time I read the tag and put it in the shade instead of the sun. I aimed to be sly and swap the old, creepy looking plant out for the new one I purchased while Ryan was out of town. Unfortunately for me, he didn't buy it! Here's to second chances!

Living with INTENTION.

2010-04-13T10:07:00.002-05:00

Every now and then I find myself pausing to ask myself if I am really living with intention. In another sense, asking myself if the way I am living my life, in action and deed, with what I value most.

Not to get on a diatribe with the values I hold, but I challenge you to ask yourself this same question today...Are you really living with intention? Are you really living the life you want to live on purpose?

In my 29th year...

2010-04-07T16:39:00.002-05:00

I am resolving in the 29th year of my life to attempt to not kill plants. Last weekend, I bought basil, lavender and cilantro plants at the Farmer's Market. I already re-potted them and have watered them just about daily since then. I can't put them in the ground because I have a big furry creature (Anue!) who will either destruct or eat them. So on the patio table or front porch they will remain.

I have always failed to either place the plants in the right spot or over watered them. Thus, I have decided to do a little preliminary reading and probably still need to do a little bit more here soon. Basil likes about 6 to 8 hours of sun per day and avoid winds. My cilantro will apparently need to be moved in to a deeper pot because it will get really deep roots when it grows and also needs to be watered a lot. Lastly, my lavender plant, however, loves sun and does not need to be watered as often.

We shall see, wish me luck!

Forest Park Wednesday Evening

2010-03-25T14:56:00.000-05:00

Starting this week Ryan has hurling practice on Wednesday nights at Forest Park. I thought it be a fun evening activity for the two of us to tag along and go for a stroll. Drew decided he did not want to get in his stroller and so instead we spent most of the time on the playground near the Visitor's Center. Then we spent a little time watching hurling practice before going to see the lake in front of Art Hill. We had a fun time on a beautiful evening at Forest Park despite his change in our plans.

Meet My New Friends: Franny + Mama Mirabelle

2010-03-24T13:45:00.002-05:00

Ryan and I vowed to try to not let Drew watch TV all the time and get addicted to it like most kids are. Of course with time we have relaxed some, especially with some of the really cute shows they have on PBS Kids. My two favorites happen to usually be scheduled back to back usually whenever they are on.

The first one is called Franny's Feet. It's a show about a little girl who works at her Grandpa's shoe repair shop and helps him take the incoming shoes and put them in the 'fix it' box. Before she puts them in the box, she puts them on and they take her on all kids of adventures. It's Frantabulous!

The second show is called Mama Mirabelle's Home Movies. It's a show that talks about animals and everyday adventures of animals. A mix of video of real animals -- hence her home movies -- and the animated crew of zebras, cheetahs, monkeys and elephants on the savannah. Everybody gather 'round the bog. So swing, sweep, rattle and hum.. it's time for Mama Mirabelle's big home movie show!

Not to say that every show that is on PBS Kids, I agree with. Drew loves the Raggs Kids Club, which the more I watch the less I like. Berenstein Bears, although a childhood classic, I think has too much of a country bumpkin attitude and doesn't really reflect an accurate world view. George Shrinks is another show I am not fond of, but not really sure why.

Now Sesame Street... that's a whole 'nother league!

{ Five Good Things for Tuesday }

2010-03-23T15:14:00.001-05:00

1. After 3 years of loyal service, my 2nd generation ipod nano is dying a slow death. It was not uploading correctly and not holding it’s charge. Why I didn’t think of this sooner, I am not sure, but I have been using my G1 Android Smart Phone instead. I am in LOVE with the Google Listen app (which is a podcast rss catcher) and Pandora (custom streaming radio online) especially now that I got the converter for my car jack to stream to it. It’s life changing!

2. Spring is here… and I am still in cleaning mode. I have unsubscribed from most junk email advertisements, slimmed down my google reader list, working my way through organizing more at home + work each day.

3. I am still in awe of these Tiny Houses I found through A Guy Named Dave (of the 100 Thing Challenge). Sometimes I wish I had a smaller house.. which I know is one thing most people do not wish for, but these IKEA style houses certainly would limit the amount of things you could own and consume.

4. Looking forward to this weekend’s fun in store. Going to Flamingo Bowl with some girlfriends on Friday night and Celebrating my neice, Sofia’s, third birthday on Saturday. Depending on the weather maybe sneak a bike ride in there.

5. Our bathroom renovations are nearing the final stages of completion. Tile should be going in this week!! The idea that it might be completely done by the end of next week makes me giddy!!

(Image from Rich Inner Life Blog.)

Stop. Rewind. Play.

2010-03-15T15:16:00.002-05:00

Hello. Long time, No hear.. I know! The past few weeks have been a whirlwind to say the least. Not all for bad reasons though… In a nutshell here’s the past month’s synopsis:

• Ryan started his new job after President’s Day then had finals the following two weeks. Just as we thought we had a schedule going.. he started biking to work and it changed again!

• I’ve had days off work here and there to have play days with Drew because our family and sitter were out of town. So out went any idea of a normal week with that too.

• Two weeks ago each had the FLU on different days. Drew first. Then me… then Ryan. Ugh. So glad that’s over with.

• Our bathroom renovation / electrical project / other assorted house construction projects are going on Week 7. I am elated and cannot wait until it is complete – as it is going to be AWESOME!!

• Ryan’s 30th Birthday was February 25th. Lent started the week prior. This year for Lent I am giving up the extra time I waste on the computer at home in the evening (which I spend on Facebook + Google Reader) in addition to doing some extra volunteering.

• I’ve been working on cleaning out my office – closet – and extra things that we just don’t need/want. Donating some of it + attempting to sell some of it. Clearing out feels good!
• Attempting to catch up on scrapbooks and making progress. Certainly makes me excited to keep the creativity of it all up.

• Getting back on track with working out after a few weeks of erratic schedule. For a while there I was swimming one day per week, like I wanted to in my FIVE GOALS. (That’s a whole ‘nother blog post). Somehow I have still managed to lose weight .. and I am happy to report wearing a pair of pants that did not fit previously!

• And finally… in honor of my TWO year Blogiversary, which was February 14th, I decided that the Creative Adventures of Sara Ellen needed a refresh. I am still working on the widgets and messing with the layout so bear with me. (Thanks Steph for finding this awesome template).

Whew. More soon…promise!

Happy Valentine's Day!!

2010-02-12T16:31:00.000-06:00

Soulard Pet Parade - Anue's Favorite Day of the Year!

2010-02-10T15:56:00.000-06:00

My dog's favorite day of the year was this past Sunday -- the Soulard Dog Parade. We keep saying each year that we are going to dress up and dress Anue up... and this year we finally did. I wore butterfly wings -- Ryan and Linda and Anue wore capes and Drew was a dalmation puppy (with a snowsuit on underneath). This year we were well prepared and I had no excuse to pansy out because in 2008 this time of year we had already been to Quebec City for the Winter Carnival. I donned my long underwear, down jacket and warm cozy boots and we were off!

Drew thoroughly enjoyed seeing all the dogs, panting like a dog and strolling and waving at everyone ooo and awww at his costume. He was such a good parade go-er that he even took a nap at the end so we could go visit Aunt Bridget at the Great Grizzly Bear where she was working that afternoon.

Toddlers. Friends + Orchid Adventures

2010-02-09T15:40:00.000-06:00

Saturday morning first thing, Drew and I met Julie and Emily at the Missouri Botanical Gardens to see the Orchid Show. While the flowers were gorgeous and it smelled wonderful in there, the most amusing thing was watching these two follow each other around and their reactions to the flowers and the giant butterfly shaped art that was hanging throughout the display.

We ventured over to the Climatron and enjoyed seeing the fish, the waterfall, the banana tree and climbing up and down all the steps there -- not to mention the warm climate. Needless to say they were both fascinated with the doors that automatically open to the outside when they run past it, as much as they were the flowers and the Climatron itself.

We were having such a nice visit that we decided to have an early lunch at Bread Company (well some of us did, Drew!) and agreed that we need more fun Saturday outings like this one. Especially if it ends with cookies!

Being a Responsible Parent is Hard!

2010-02-03T16:37:00.000-06:00

Never in my life would I have guessed that I would say that Goldfish crackers and yogurt, maybe a few pieces of apple would be considered an acceptable meal for a toddler -- especially my own!

Drew turned 18 months on February 1st and we took him for his check up only to find out that we needed to stop giving him a B-O-T-T-L-E (spell it out so he doesn't hear you say it!). This was a scary task because he loved it so much! And was probably drinking more milk than he should and filling up instead of eating!

So alas, we are attempting to be responsible parents. We packed up all the bottles and put them in storage and several times had to show him they were not in the cabinet even. He is liking the new cups we have bought him and is drinking more juice than previously.

A year and a half sure has flown by quickly. We are all learning how this new family dynamic of parenting works (Drew included), but are enjoying it each step of the way.

Make New Friends, But Keep the Old

2010-01-27T15:37:00.000-06:00

Remember that Girl Scout Song, "Make New Friends" I was randomly thinking about that song the other day when I was thinking about how great it has been in the past couple of weeks to have the opportunity to have several wonderful conversations with different friends of mine, whether it was over the phone, at dinner or coffee. All of these fabulous friends are people that I haven't visited with in some time and certainly have missed seeing and talking to in depth on a regular basis, but am still so thankful to have in my life.

I am constantly amazed at how God puts certain people in our lives when we need it. Then to look at how some people stay in the picture for a while, while some don't and how others continue to travel with us on the journey of life. I do realize just how lucky I am to have so many brillant, talented, insightful, giving and caring friends and mentors. All who are people who let me be myself, speak my mind and do not judge me. Thank you so much for enriching my life and helping me to the best friend/mother/wife/mother/daughter/sister/creative caring loving person I can be.

Adventures to Sesame Street Live ... 1.2.3. Imagine!

2010-01-21T15:28:00.000-06:00

One really cool thing about being a parent is getting to do some of the things you liked to do as a kid... again! My parents and sisters and their kids have all been to the Sesame Street Live show the past few years.. but now that Drew is old enough, we were included too.

This year we even got to meet Elmo and Abbiecaddaby! Drew was not quite sure what to think because he had just woken up from a nap he took in the car because he refused to take one earlier in the day when he should have.

Needless to say, the show was cute and he now loves Sesame Street on tv more than he did before. It's a safe bet to say that we'll go next year when the show comes to town.

FIVE GOALS for 2010.

2010-01-14T14:32:00.001-06:00

If there is one thing I love about the start of a new year, it's the idea to start new with a fresh set of goals. I like to set five goals for a six month period and then see how close I can come to completing them. The past few years I would say I have about a 50% success rate, but the truth is some of those I have actually completed I may not have if I hadn't agreed to attempt them! So while my husband sometimes accuses me of 'overscheduling', it's because I just like to do things + see people and then try to do more that I can on top of that.

My FIVE GOALS from January to June 2010 -

1. Read at least a book per month.
2. Keep working out.. try to swim one day per week.
3. Write. Draw. Create. -- Continue to practice creativity in some way each week.
4. Get caught up on 2009's scrapbook + journal more in my 2010 scrapbook.
5. Do less -- try to not to overschedule! (** This is the hardest one for me!! ** )

What are your newest 5 goals or things you want to do or learn this year?You will be surprised at your ability to do and accomplish things you really would not have considered previously. Lastly, post your list somewhere that you can see it and review every couple days. If you want to be more accountable - share it with others and work together!

It was a Crafty Christmas.

2010-01-10T10:46:00.000-06:00

This year I had decided well in advance that I wanted to try to make something for our neices and nephews for Christmas instead of buying them books like we normally do. For the older kids I made either crayon or colored pencil roll ups and for the younger baby boys I made these fabric block pillows. I think they were all a hit, as the kids started coloring right away! It felt really nice to give a personalized gift for Christmas that encourages creativity. Now on to convincing them to each draw a Valentine's Day pictures for my next project....

Cheers to 2010.

2010-01-06T16:35:00.000-06:00

I had every intention of updating while I had the time off during Christmas + New Year and ended up going the complete opposite direction of the computer. I checked email and updated Twitter, but that was about it!

This was one of my more favorite recent Christmas holidays for many reasons. I had the better part of two weeks off work to play, create, sleep, workout, cook and do whatever we please. This year seemed to have less of an emphasis on stuff and more on being together. I loved it!

The Christmas schedule for the most part was pretty laid back and that made everything so much nicer. We celebrated with my side of the family the weekend prior to Christmas, then with Grammy on Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day at Dad and Barb's house. With squeezing a midnight Mass in between the two!

The Sunday before we had Giving Tree deliveries – which always marks the start of my Christmas holiday when that project is over!

Drew finally somewhat understands how to open gifts and just about every package he opened – he thought was fabulous. I rediscovered how much I love cooking and baking and made a bunch of yummy things to eat + share with others.

We had a wonderful little New Year’s dinner party with some friends and it was a fun quiet way to ring in the New Year. Wishing you and your family a healthy, prosperous, and joyous 2010.

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year....

2009-12-16T12:21:00.000-06:00

The days are flying by and the evenings are jam packed. Christmas is coming and I feel like my to do list is getting longer by the day -- not shorter! Lots more to blog.. but for now a Christmas greeting to share.

Wrapping up November...with { a few good things }

2009-11-30T16:08:00.001-06:00

It's hard for me to believe that today is the last day of November already! But { a few good things } to report following the Turkey Day holiday weekend:

{ 1 } I made my first batch of homemade hot cocoa for the first time with this recipe from Alton Brown.

{ 2 } The new Carondolet Rec Plex has finally opened and I cannot get enough of it. Drew was so overwhelmed when we took him to the pool.. it was simply adorable.

{ 3 } The St. Vincent de Paul Giving Tree project is underway at church. We have more families than we have had in years past and we are doing our best to make this Christmas a little brighter for these families in need. A few people requested larger items (bed, dresser, baby items..etc) and we are going to see what we can get donated off of Craigslist to help them out. We'll see if it works!

{ 4 } Drew got a hair cut (a la Mommy). It's not perfect -- but it was much needed.

{ 5 } Our Christmas tree is up -- but without ornaments so far. We are not sure how it's all going to work out ... but we will decorate it somehow. Like everything else in the house when there is a one year old running all over the place, it's a learning lesson.

{ 6 } My sewing machine is fixed! Which means I can get to work on the Christmas gifts I plan to sew for my neices and nephews... more on that later.

{ 7 } I've been contemplating doing a "December Daily" scrapbook, but I am not sure if I am willing to commit or not yet. December Daily is a way to celebrate the traditions and everyday blessings during the month of December. Some of the albums I have seen on a couple blogs are pretty elaborate -- if I do decide to do one -- I might just keep it simple and try to tell a different story of our Christmas holiday one at a time. Just words and photos.

{ 8 } I forgot how much I like watching 60 Minutes. Two really interesting stories this week to share: Congo's Gold and Great Explorer: Robert Ballard.

Happy Thanksgiving.

2009-11-26T09:49:00.000-06:00

This year we have certainly have a lot to be thankful for. Wonderful family and friends -- all in good health. An adorable 1 year old boy that keeps us on our toes and laughing at all times. A warm cozy house in constant state of updates to call our own. Family in town to share the holiday weekend with... including lots of good food and more.

Wishing you and your family a very happy and safe Thanksgiving!

Tour de Drew of Mizzou

2009-11-20T13:37:00.000-06:00

A couple weekends ago we scored some free tickets to the Mizzou vs. Baylor football game. Who would have guessed that it would be 65 degrees and sunny the first weekend in November!

The previous Mizzou football game (vs. Nebraska) that we made it to this year was a rainy Thursday night quick trip to Columbia. The only time we had taken Drew with us to Mizzou was a basketball game on a weeknight last February (for Ryan's birthday!).

So not only was this Drew's first football game to go to -- it was his first trip to Columbia. Considering that we made it through most of the 4th quarter at the game, we were pretty pleased. Although, I must admit -- this kid loves football and developed quite an impressive tiger growl thanks to the sound effects from the scoreboard.

Following the game we walked all through campus...from Farout Field, through Speaker's Circle, to the Quad and Memorial Union....Our little Tiger felt right at home there.

Our tour ended, of course, at our favorite Mexican restaurant, El Rancho. Drew was pooped after not having a nap all day. We may not have won the game -- but we sure had a fun, nostalgic trip back to Columbia together.

You can see more pictures here and here from our trip! { Ryan shot a bunch of really great photos of campus and the game. }

Life without cable.

2009-11-10T14:46:00.000-06:00

We tossed around the idea of getting rid of cable for a long time. Then finally we cancelled it about a month ago. I thought I would really miss watching HGTV, CNN, ESPN and the Weather Channel. But in all honesty, it has been great!

Now that I am not in school, I am actually free to watch TV in the evenings after dinner. A few of my favorites include Biggest Loser on NBC (thanks to my parents), Modern Family on ABC, the Thursday nights on NBC - Community, Parks and Recreation, and of course, the Office. We also have enjoyed we watched a really interesting episode on Independent Lens about organ donation.

Life without cable has not been so bad because we cancelled it after baseball season was over and thanks to Hulu. Did you know they have workout video clips on Hulu?! Look under channels, then select all, then health and fitness. I have been doing a few of them in the morning before work the past few weeks. Jillian Michaels, one of the Biggest Loser trainers, has some short mini workout clips on there.

I didn't realize before we got rid of cable is there isn't really much good on TV after the late news, so that means it's time to either read a book or go to bed. Do you have cable? Have you considered getting rid of it? You might be surprised how much money you can save and how you won't even miss it!

Now Open: the HOYNE blog

2009-11-04T14:56:00.000-06:00

It's OFFICIAL! My sister Caron and I are attempting to co-write a blog. Visit us at http://hoyne.wordpress.com/

We like to share ideas and links with one another... fun or different things we find on our Google Reader, as well as our creative adventures. Hoyne blog is a space for us to share with you too!

Check it out! S

An extra hour to...

2009-11-02T14:45:00.000-06:00

Our first thought whenever we realize that its time to turn the clock back is "Ahhh... an extra hour of sleep!" I, too, fell in to the trap despite the fact that I have a one year old whose little body doesn't know the difference!

So we spent the extra hour playing with blocks, chasing each other (and the dog) in circles and baking! I made popovers and a carrot cake - both from scratch. They turned out great if I do say so myself. I don't know why my whole life I have avoided baking. It was just never my 'thing'... but I have to admit that my Kitchen Aide mixer we got three years ago makes that so much easier.

How did you spend your 'extra hour' this week?

Scenes from Halloween 2009

2009-10-31T14:42:00.000-05:00

Happy Falltime!

2009-10-21T11:31:00.000-05:00

Me + a black marker + colored pencils = A nice colorful break to admire the colorful changing fall leaves.

Hello again...

2009-10-19T14:02:00.000-05:00

Hello again... somehow last week slipped by quickly and here it is Monday again! And honestly coming back to work didn't seem so bad after a fun weekend which started off with celebrating our friends' wedding and ended with a nice dinner Sunday evening dinner with my in-laws.

I completely forgot how much I LOVE going to weddings too. It had been a while (since last November) that we had been to one, with most of our friends attending too, so that made it EVEN more enjoyable. They rented a photobooth for their guest book and the pictures were available for download afterwards online. Simply hilarious and a ton of fun!

Saturday afternoon we went and got Drew's pictures taken and that was a trip. My funny 14 month old little boy does not like to sit still, nonetheless on the little red dot they expect him to sit on to get the perfect picture. So, it is what is. The only one we got of him with a #1 or the letters ONE is running out of the picture holding the letter N not even looking at the camera, which of course we bought.

The weekend also provided enough downtime for me to get a little more organized and little time to work on my scrapbook + Drew's weekly scrap pages. I once again renewed my personal mission when I get in 'scrapbook mode' to fit everything I want to save in to a 12" x 12" plastic page cover. : ) Hopefully my kids and grandkids will thank me later.

Cheers to hoping your week is off to a great start!

We are a Baseball Family.

2009-10-05T15:45:00.000-05:00

My parents like to joke that my first word was 'Charge!'. They have had season tickets to Cardinals baseball for over 30 years, which in turn provided the opportunity for me to attend many, many games growing up. For this reason, I love baseball. I love Busch Stadium. I love the Cardinals.

When Drew was born in August, we waited only 5 weeks before taking him to his first game. He slept through most of it -- fireworks and all. This past weekend we went to the game (Thanks Mom and Dad!) and took Drew. In fact, we biked down to Busch Stadium and then checked the bike trailer in at Guest Relations. The first bike rack we tried to park at was full and the rack that we ended up parking at was three times as full when we left. It was a fun little adventure.

At any rate, our little Cardinal has grown so much in the past year and has already started with the "Do do do do do do ... CHARGE!", as he puts his arm proudly in the air. Cheers to the start of post-season play! Let's GO Cardinals.

{ Free Friday } DIY Paper Planner

2009-10-02T15:14:00.000-05:00

About this time last year I tried to lighten my daily load of 'stuff' I was carrying around and I attempted to convert myself to being an electronic planner from a paper planner. This worked great until I realized that I was writing and re-writing lists all the time, then unable to find where they were at. You have to admit, there is something very freeing about scratching items off a to do list on paper!

A former classic size Franklin Covery user, I decided to use the tabs + guts of the system I already owned & opted to not buy the refill. I found a site online where I could print out the week at a glance pages, only to realize that they basically just divided the pages in to 4 sections and marked a date on them -- heck I could do that myself with some of the leftover pages that I have. So that's what I have been doing.

Until this week, I decided that perhaps it would be neat to try to make part of it printable, but still partially DIY by filling in the dates. Thus this week's { Free Friday } download is actually two files -- the weekly - daily page and the full month page.

I like them so far because I can use colorful paper to print them on and still fill them in, as needed. I am sure this is the BETA version of these forms, but it saves money (from buying a refill) and keeps me organized. And that makes me happy!

Dear October

2009-10-01T16:19:00.001-05:00

Dear October:

Whoa did you sneak up on us! We knew fall was here, but you made it even more apparent with all the rain and wind you brought today. I don’t mind though, to be honest October, I missed the opportunity to wear my pashmina scarf and new reversible hat I bought last spring. Soon I’ll break out my favorite trench coat too.

It’s quite pleasant to walk barefoot on the cold wood floors in our house in the morning after snuggling in our cozy down bed all night. We’ll do our best to enjoy the ‘in between’ time from having the AC on before we have to turn on the boiler again. But with you comes the great reason to make crockery cooked meals, soups and do some tasty baking in the kitchen without the concern of heating up the house. Mmm… the good things of fall.

But, if I might make a suggestion for you to consider, October, could you please not continue to take so much daylight away from us? Thanks.

Love, Sara

All Play + Maybe Some Work

2009-09-29T16:45:00.000-05:00

Yesterday Drew, Ryan and my Mother in Law, Linda, went to the Zoo. { What perfect fall weather by the way! } Ryan took some really great pictures which I am in love with. Reminds me of a conversation we were having the other night after Drew-man went to bed about how he at the heart of every move he makes, just wants to PLAY! { Even when he does things you don’t want him to do, like throw my hair brush in to the toilet. }

Can you imagine just waking up happy –and just playing all day long every day and finding everything you encounter as being so intriguing even though you don’t understand what it’s for? Where do we lose that creativity in seeing the fun side of it all?

I like my job. It’s not perfect, but they treat me well and I work with a lot of really smart, interesting folks. We spend too much time at work to not at least like the people we work with. Even if it’s all work and no play. Makes me think though… If I could turn my work in to play… how great would that be?

My criteria for my 'All Play + Some Work' job would involve:

- Utilizing my creative skills { preferably with craft supplies }

- Casual dress code {Where pigtail braids + hat or tennis shoes are acceptable}

- Working flex hours

- Short commute { preferably in the CITY or where I could bike to }

- Getting paid bookoo bucks { Why not dream??}

What would be the criteria for your ideal 'All Play + Some Work' job? Life is too short-- let’s PLAY! Now I just have to figure out how to make that plan actually happen.

Family Reunions, Failure, Five K Run + Flags

2009-09-28T11:43:00.000-05:00

This past weekend was nice and relaxing. We headed south about 1.5 hours to Marquand, Missouri for a reunion on my Mom's side of the family -- my grandfather's family. It was a beautiful drive there and luckily we beat the rain. It was fun to see everyone and enjoy some good food! While it did rain on the way home, we saw a gorgeous rainbow.

On a FAIL note, I messed up the baby quilt I was attempting to make for my friend. Lesson learned that I should not attempt more complicated sewing projects than I have the ability for. I hope to unpiece what's salvagable and make it in to something else -- maybe pillows? You can't win them all I guess.

I did complete one of my FIVE goals I set for myself -- to run another 5K before the end of the year. Ryan, Drew and I ran the ROCStar 5K at Forest Park yesterday morning. What a perfect day it was out!

While I failed on one sewing project this weekend, I successfully finished another -- the bunting flags I started a few months back. I strung them across my craft room when I was done last night and Drew noticed them first thing this morning. Now we have to figure out how to hang them in his room.

Enjoy this wonderful Fall weather. Happy Monday!

Five Good Things for Wednesday.

2009-09-23T15:05:00.000-05:00

1. Finished my jeans to jeans skirt project! { Still needs a final hem, but I want to be sure I like the length on it. }

2. Working on finishing a baby quilt for a friend of mine's new arrival. I am excited because it's my first quilt project and I know she's going to love it!

3. Looking forward to a fun roadtrip to a family reunion Saturday.

4. Almost caught up on weeks of backlogged reading on my Google Reader. My craft idea list has grown significantly. Too many fun projects.. not enough time!

5. Enjoying reading Richard Florida's Who's Your City. + Brainstorming co-writing a blog about urban issues with my husband, Ryan.

Cheers.

Adventures in Biking: My First Commute to Work

2009-09-18T14:36:00.000-05:00

Last Friday I finally biked my commute to work. It's about 8 miles (I think) and really was only super busy in about two small sections. My commute by car takes about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic. My commute by bike last week took about 50 minutes, although it would have been about 5 minutes quicker had I not had to wait for the train to pass me in Maplewood.

It made me realize how agressive people really drive during their morning commute. I'll do it again sometime, but I cannot see myself bike commuting everyday. At least until my workplace has a shower! : )

Five Good things for THURSDAY.

2009-09-10T16:37:00.000-05:00

{ 1 } Love this post on raising a family in the city. And this post on the price of american sytle consumerism.

{ 2 } What an exciting idea: Trailnet. Ryan + Drew + I hope to attend next Wednesday, September 16th, as Left Bank Books downtown hosts this event at 7pm.Crank & Click 2: Photo-scavenger hunt on your bike organized by Will Cycle for Charity.

{ 3 } Stumbled upon a neat event called Livable St. Louis: What it Takes to Retain and Attract Creative Individuals in searching for other rides going on this Fall through

Join Next American City, Trailnet and our local partners — STL Style, Great Rivers Greenway, Metropolis St. Louis, Urban Land Institute St. Louis, Left Bank Books and Will Cycle for Charity — as we present a one-night URBANEXUS event this September. As St. Louis transforms into a more vibrant city, how can it maintain a creative population with talents and energy to contribute to the larger community? Chris King, editorial director of the St. Louis American, will moderate the discussion. Panelists include Washington University adjunct professor, Jasmin Aber; Trailnet program coordinator, Jennifer Allen; Alderman, Antonio French; non-profit community developer, Galen Gondolfi; and Vice President of Metropolis St. Louis, Leslie Proud. Admission is free for subscribers. Admission for non-subscribers is $15 and includes a one-year subscription to Next American City magazine, free food and drink.

{ 4 } The event is being hosted by an organization called New American City, which I look forward to subscribing to and learning more about.

{ 5 } I googled the term "Creative Class" because I was not sure exactly what that was defined as. [ Which lead to me ordering a few more library books. ]

Cheers! : )

Happy 09.09.09 day!

2009-09-09T15:31:00.001-05:00

Happy 09.09.09 day!
Originally uploaded by SaraEllen

Did you get your letters out in time today for them to be postmarked? I just dropped mine in the mailbox a few minutes ago.

Oh, how I LOVE sending mail! Cheers.