Lylou Design

Working In Wine Is Hard

2010-07-17T16:32:00.000-07:00

Brian and I spent our week on Seneca Lake NY at a wine conference. We drove up, so that we could spend a couple of days in the city after meetings. The first day we were busy with tours of local wineries. The rest of the week was lectures and ceremonies. The week was full of vino rojo, blanco y rose. Needless to say, it was marvelous.

The two days in the city were interesting. The first night we spent with our close friend Jason and had a fabulous time. It made it worth the extra 5 hour drive. The next day we visited the MET and went to our favorite restaurant. By the next morning we were ready to leave. I guess we have had our fill of NYC over the years. Now that I am so heavily involved in wines I don’t really care to be any further than 1 hour away from a vineyard.

Because of our new direction in life we have already planned our trip next summer to SF for the Ring Cycle and a week in wine country. We are both very excited about it and having our close friend from Charlotte, Dan, join us for touring ads to the joy of experiencing wine. Life is good.

My next trip is somewhere without wine, but it is full of temples, which is my second love. I am taking my mother and my close friend Mark to the Yucatan for 2 weeks. It is going to be full of climbing, hiking and relaxing on the beach. A good break before hitting my third semester of school.

2010-06-02T06:03:00.000-07:00

Guest Room Before

Brian and I bought a second house in Elkin, NC. It is close to my school and only 10 minutes from Raffaldini, where I work. It is a little fixer-upper in the heart of wine alley and is our little slice of heaven (well, will be once we are finished renovating). We are 30 minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway, 5 hours from the beach, an hour from Charlotte and 30 minutes from Winston-Salem. We are surrounded by 33 wineries and vineyards...and the buen teimpo.

I am in my second year of school and truly happy. I have found my calling in wine and have decided to focus on wine making. I was able to work a judging with the HEAD of Enology from the University of Bordeau and have decided to work towards becoming a certified sommelier. It is going to be a long journey, but well worth the travel.

I have taken on my first class in Spanish and have my first test today. I think I am going to enjoy these classes, but they might not come as easy as the other classes. If I can keep up with at least a B-C in the class, I intend on taking at least 4 classes and possibly double majoring in Spanish Translation and Enology and Viti. Whew, it makes me tired just typing it.

Guest Room After

Holidays Are Over

2010-02-03T19:14:00.000-08:00

I made it though the first semester with flying colors. I managed to get myself on the Dean's List. This is the first time in my life that I can say "I am a good student." I am running full speed ahead with my second semester. I feel confident that I will do just as good, if not better, this semester.

This is Matloch (AKA: Matlochness Monster). Street turned House Cat. Yes, he spends his evenings at Raves, so he sleeps his day away on the bed. Cats. You can't live with them, you can't live without them.

Brian and I are closing on a house in North Carolina on the 12th. This is just in time for my birthday on the 13th. He told me a couple of weeks ago, that he wants to move up here and leave with me. We are going to do a little work on the new house and move our other home up here by the end up March. The plan is to have a rental company take care of our Athens place. It will be nice to have a little income coming in from the rental. It is hard to think about moving from Athens, but the journey is continually moving forward and Athens isn't in the picture.

I have a new line of accessories and this little hat is an example of them. I make them from recycled sweaters. They are all handmade and unique. This was the first kiddo accessory I have done and I think it turned out great. The women's are just as sassy (for the little girl in all of us). I have also been making scarves, but they are so time consuming that I am not sure they will be worth anything other than gifts for friends (but the women are loving them).

Winter and Wine Holiday Market

2009-12-04T05:45:00.000-08:00

The past couple of months I have been trying to put together a Winter and Wine Holiday Market. Since this is the first year for my NC Holiday Market I started small, with hopes that next year it will be as big as my GA Holiday Market. One challenge was being new to the area and not yet networked, but I managed to pull together a few (11) artist and 5 vineyards. I think it will be a great market at Round Peak Vineyards and I am already looking for next year’s venue. I was able to start a blog...a little late in the game, but it is ready for next year (and possibly a spring market).

I am doing my first vineyard pruning this weekend. We are meeting up at 8am, rain or shine. It is suppose to be snowing by then. I think I am the only one that isn't worried about it. I guess all the winters on my bike in Denver have hardened me up to snow.

Finals are right around the corner and I am nervous. It is strange being a good student, you worry about grades. Who knew I had it in me? That being said, I will be spending the next 2 weeks studying for all of my comprehensive finals. I am also a little nervous about the 21 credit hours I have registered for next semester. WHEW…that and two jobs (hopefully three).

Yesterday I met Sean from McRitchie Vineyards. It was such a great experience. He is one of the most well-known winemakers in NC. He is definitely on my list of winemakers I want to work with, or should I say volunteer to work with. My list seems to grow every month.

I have been taking care of myself. Even though I can’t run, or even walk (doctor still hasn’t released me) I have been able to do yoga and pilates. I almost snuck out for a run yesterday, but was able to hold myself back. The fear of damaging my legs more and the possible of never being able to run was stronger than my desire to run. I just keep telling myself, “all in good time.” Speaking of yoga…off to the gym.

Thanksgiving...

2009-11-27T18:11:00.000-08:00

It is wonderful being home. Brian created a delightful Thanksgiving dinner for me and the family. After dinner we celebrated Lee's 30th birthday, but having friends over for cocktails. It gave me the chance to catch up with friends, while in town.

Tonight I am enjoying a movie with Brian. It is a little down time before getting back to work. It is the final weeks of classes and I will be busy studying for tests, as well as working on presentations and papers.

I have started my second winery job and have a call in for a third. If I am lucky I will have three part-time winery jobs by the end of Dec. The more time I spend working with winemakers the better chance I have of actually getting my hands sticky. Wish me luck.

Great Grapes

2009-11-19T17:58:00.000-08:00

Lauren at Elkin Creek

I found out tonight that we are doing a doing a secondary harvest on the Shelton Cab Sauv on Tuesday. This isn't unusual, but what is unusual is that the Brix are at 21.5. Who knew? It is going to be a crazy morning, but the good news it that I can hit the road for home at noon. This means home by 4-5pm and kickin' with the dogs...Brian will make it home from work around 10ish. It will be a great night sleep!

Blaine and the family (all three kids) won't be able to make it to Thanksgiving dinner, so it is just Mom, Dad, Brian, Lee and I. It will be a nice relaxed afternoon, but what Lee doesn't know is that we are having a surprise birthday party for his 30th that evening (no, he doesn't read my blog).

2009-11-18T05:33:00.000-08:00

Elkin Creek Vineyard

So much has been going on in Mount Airy. Let's see if I can catch you up. School is going well. As far as I know I am getting straight As, for the first time in my life. I am very excited about being in the program and have found direction in a long time passion. Next semester I will begin my winemaking programs, as well as vineyard establishment. It feels great to be a good student, but I am a little nervous about taking 18 credit hours next semester. WHAT WAS I THINKING? For some reason I think I can...I think I can. I have decided that I will be getting an associates degree, just to have the feeling of accomplishment. I am looking into Cornell University in Ithica, NY for continuing my education. From my understanding they have a great Classics Program, so it might fit well for both Brian and myself.

I have been hired at two wineries. The first is Round Peak Vineyards, as a event planner and tasting room assistant (part-time). I have hosted two functions to day, a Skull Camp Out! and a Holiday Pairing. My other job is at Brushy Mountain Winery, as a bookkeeping and a winemaker's assistant (part-time). I start the second on Saturday. I am very excited to have the opportunity to work with a winemaker! It gets me more step closer to the end result. I have my resume into a third vineyard/winery, so fingers crossed I can add one more day of tasting room assistant to that list, so I can network even more!

Tiger Mountain Vineyard (GA)

Brian and Mom made it to town a month ago and I took them to my favorite vineyard/winery, Elkin Creek Vineyard. If you have the opportunity to order a bottle it should be the 2007 Family Reserve. It will make you want to bake bread! It is just that good. A couple of weeks later my friend, Lauren, and I returned for an interview with the owner and were talked into (no arms were twisted) become a wine club memeber. SO WORTH IT! I think I will be volunteering for the owner, Mark, next summer. I want to learn how to make wine from him. He is third generation winemaker.

Elkin Creek Vineyard (NC)

I have fallen in love with this area, so Brian and I are thinking about buying a holiday home for me to spend the next 2 years. Mount Airy is close to the Blue Ridge Mountains and since the economy has hit the area so hard it is a great time to buy. I figured I could drop my monthly expenses by buying a home...who knew! It is kind of weird being a broke college student, living month to month (10$ an hour doesn't go far). I had my eye on a crappy fixer-upper lake mountain house, but someone swept it up from under me before I had a chance to look at it. Don't fear, I will find another crappy mountain house, just not with a lake. POOP! teehee. I am heading out before work today to look at a few.

Tiger Mountain Vineyard (GA)

Home Again

2009-09-27T20:47:00.001-07:00

I was able to return to Athens for an enjoyable weekend with friends and family. Friday Brian and I met artist, Ruth Allen, for oysters and bubbly. Then over to the Dallings for great conversation and wine. After sharing a couple of bottles of my recent North Carolina finds, Raffildini and Laurel Gray, Brian and I went home to spend some quality time listening to Queen.

Saturday we had Lee up for a nice quiet dinner at home. We split a beautiful gamay while eating a top notch bolognese and other goodies Brian spent the day preparing. While Georgia fans were weathering the heavy rain, we were cuddled away on the sofa having boy talk.

Sunday, Brian and I took mom to Tiger Mountain Vineyards (photos to come). The weather was perfect, sunny and cool. It was the perfect road trip for a Sunday afternoon. We caught up with Dad later and had our standing (use to be standing) dinner with the parents.

Monday...well, Monday was full of reading and writing. Then dinner at Mark's, which was EXCELLENT! I have to admit that I sure do miss my close friends and family when I start reminiscing about them.

Spent the rest of the evening watching

Ken Burns' National Parks.

Day Off

2009-09-10T06:33:00.000-07:00

I have the day off. Well, maybe not. I have to spend my day reading an eighty page article on grape berry development and wine grape quality. Hopefully this article will be easier for me to read and retain, since I am back in the swing of reading technical science writing. Wish me luck.

Rain storms are on the way to Mount Airy, so I best get out and buy a slicker and boots. It seems that the theme of autumn in Mount Airy is "RAIN". I can't complain, because it sure is pretty. It just won't be so much fun taking estimations tonight.

I am beginning to think that Brian and I might have to have a small intimate gathering to celebrate our marriage. I have been getting a little heat from both families (call them old fashion) and it is hard not to give in. There are some beautiful wineries in the area that allow gatherings. How perfect would that be? I have a live in chef, so.....-grin

Grape Science

2009-09-09T10:55:00.000-07:00

The next three free days are going to be filled with studying for my upcoming grape science class. Thursday I will be helping out Shelton Vineyards to a crop estimation with my class, after harvest. Who said technical writing and crop estimation is boring? NOT ME!

Newbie

2009-09-08T06:59:00.000-07:00

The past couple of weeks I have been running with the bulls. I knew that the industry was saturated with men, but I had NO idea. They are, for the most part, wonderful men and have been helping me every step of the way. Most of my classmates have been in the department for at least a few semesters, but there are a few of us newbie (like the new vines planted above).

The program is wonderful. I knew it would be great, but I had NO idea. The grape science class is kicking my butt, but I am crossing my fingers that he grades on a curve. I took my first take home quiz and realized how little I know. -grin Since then, I have been all study and no play. I am starting to get the hang of the viticulture thing.

I have spent a couple of days in the vineyards harvesting. It is very romantic getting up at 4am to pick grapes. Other then that I have been out tasting, tasting my nose, and relearning scientific terms.

I have made an executive decision. I don't want to wait tables, even if it is at a popular vineyard. I just don't want to do it...so, I am out looking for employment in anything BUT waiting tables. I figure this is just a part time job, so I can work as a bakery clerk if need be.

Brian is coming up this weekend. We plan to hit the Blue Ridge Parkway and have lunch at Chateau Morrisette on Saturday. Sunday, I think I will take him down to Mount Pilot and then to a friends vineyard, Round Peak.

Chateau Morrisette

2009-08-22T15:57:00.000-07:00

Friday I spent my day driving up the Blue Ridge Parkway and visiting Chateau Morrisette. It was a very delightful and relaxing trip. I was very impressed with Morrisette's wines, particularly the 2007 Chambourcin. Highly recommend it to anyone who loves a good red.

After a wonderful sensory evaluation I hit the road to Roanoke to visit my BFF and her family. Roanoke is beautiful this time of year, everything is green and in bloom. I always love my visits with Allison is this was no exception. We spent happy hour outside on a patio of a local downtown eatery and then off to see live music.

Today I am back in Mount Airy watching a movie and then hitting the books. I have TONS of reading due for my grape science class. Yes, it is as exciting as it sounds. I am a bit overwhelmed by it, this first week of class, but I will get the hang of it. I am also taking a Ag Econ, Wines of the World, and Intro to Viticulture class.

I started my job search last week and I have a good feeling about a waitress job at Shelton Vineyards. It isn't nessacarily my thing...waiting tables, but I am willing to take anything at a vineyard just to get my foot in the door. I plan on putting in my resume to Chateau Morrisette, as well. It is an hour away, but I figure I can commute for a couple times a week.

Bibbi Forsman: it's up in Lidköping

2009-08-15T20:30:00.000-07:00

Bibbi has finished her wall.
She never ceases to amaze me with her work.

Bibbi Forsman: it's up in Lidköping

The Mr.

2009-08-15T20:17:00.000-07:00

Brian and I went up to Mount Airy this past week, so that he could get a taste of where I will be living for the next 2 years. The day before we left he asked me to marry him, so when we arrived on Monday we hit the court house and tied the knot. Above is a photo of Brian spreading the word to the parents.

I am back until Monday and then I am heading back up to Airy for my first day of class on Tuesday. I have signed up for http://www.audible.com/ , so that I can have some fun books on tape for my 5 hour drives. Of course my first book is all about wine.

Caged In

2009-07-22T16:33:00.000-07:00

Brian almost has the railing on the new deck done. We just have to add stairs and BAM it is done. Then we can focus on the back yard and remodeling the kitchen. Two very small projects. NOT~

I finally found an apartment in Mount Airy and I start moving up there a week from tomorrow. I am taking my first truck loads up with mom and dad for a weekend. When I am up there I can measure out the space and make a list of things i need to move up the next weekend. I learned last night that it is harder to pack for a move of two year then a permanent move. Who would have known?

To avoid packing I am heading to the beach with Janine this weekend. The perfect end to the month of July. It is the calm before the storm.

Double Trouble

2009-07-18T08:31:00.000-07:00

I spent my morning at the most wonderful cross country 5K for Giffin. I was joined by a few other boot campers, which made it a real delight. This 5K Saturday has become a habit.

I was able to spend some quality time with my godson, Spike, this past week. We had a hell of a time...swimming, dinning, shopping, laughing and catching up.

My niece gave birth to two twin boys this week. I am now an auntie for the 3rd time!

Canjun Crazy

2009-07-09T09:41:00.000-07:00

One thing I realized this week is how hard it is going to be living away from Brian for the next two years. I had a small taste of it durning my recent holiday. For the next month I am going to soak in every moment I have with him.

Progress report:

I finalized my budget for the upcoming school year and I will be working with the school to figure out the amount of my student loan.

I got all the classes I wanted and am now a full time student at SCC! I registered for 20 hours.

Brian bought me a KIA sportage for school. It is such a great feeling to know I will have reliable and safe transportation to drive to and from Athens in.

I am still looking for housing. I have my eye on a very small one bedroom apartment in a old home. It isn't much, but I think I could work my magic in interior design. The size doesn't make for a sewing room, but I figure the living room could be more like 'creative room'...reading chair, sewing table.

Twin Powers

2009-07-05T12:37:00.000-07:00

I spent my last week in AL with family. This is the first vacation in 10 years that our family (mom, dad, Gwen and I) have been together at the same time. It was a wonderful trip filled with plenty of swimming, sun, good cooking and laughter.

My niece is having twins in August, so taking Nolen off her hands for a week gave her much needed rest. On the other hand, it gave me the much needed spirit/energy boost I needed to get out there and keep busy.

More photos of come...

Mount Airy

2009-06-14T14:24:00.000-07:00

Mom and I made a quick trip up to NC wine country this past week. I was able to visit the school I will be attending in August and things seem to be moving along smoothy. I located housing and put myself on a waiting list. We also spent one afternoon visiting local vineyards. It was a wonderful and productive trip.

2009-06-05T12:49:00.000-07:00

I spent 3 hours in the salon to achieve this wonderful new hair style. Kuddos to Lolo at Honey.

I am spending my afternoon at the National for a rose tasting and then off to Mark's for a visit with his son and father. I am looking forward to a low key night with good wine and good friends.

Craft Markets

2009-06-03T13:42:00.000-07:00

Souldier Belts

Last weekend Jasey and I spent all of our time working the ICE show. It was a slow show, but we still had a wonderful time. We met lots of great crafters and artists, so not all was lost. We will not be doing another show until fall. I am looking into a big one in VA Beach. That could be a nice time. Otherwise, I will wait until the holidays.

I am making plans to head to NC to check out rentals, employment and the school. Something seems to come up every week and I end up postponing it, but if all goes as planned I should be heading up there the last week in June.

I have to quit running for a spell, which is going to drive me crazy. It is all part of the healing process. I guess I jumped back into the exercise ring too quickly and now I am paying for it. I am off tonight, but returning to boot camp tomorrow. I was told to 'take it easy'....meaning no running. DARN IT! I have been doing great, other then that. Lost 1/2 inch in my thighs, 1/4 in my waist and I decreased my time mile by 55 seconds...30 more and I will be back to where I was before the accident. YIPPY!

2009-05-26T04:53:00.000-07:00

I have been busy spending most of my time researching the area/town which I will be relocating to for school. I have determined that if I work my butt off I might be able to finish up the degree in 1.5 years. I am going to try my best.

I walk/ran my first 5K since my accident yesterday. My time wasn't the 'best', but I still finished and am very proud of my accomplishment. I have come a long way in the past few months with a lot of hard work and discipline and it is beginning to show. I have 4 days of boot camp this week, so by the time the weekend rolls around I should be really tired.

I go in this Thursday for my second bio-op for the tumor on my leg. Wish me luck!

My free time will be spent sewing for the upcoming ICE show this weekend. It is going to be a lot of work, but wonderful to be around so many wonderful crafters. I have been getting some great feed back on my bags, so hopefully they will be a big hit with the LowDow women of Atlanta.

I have been asked to be a blogger for Skirt.com for Athens, which launches in June. What a delightful surprise. I have excepted and will be finding out the details in the near future.

My knee 1.5 months after the accident

Changes

2009-05-20T13:21:00.000-07:00

Brian and I have been busy on a number of projects. The yard, the back patio, cleaning...all kinds of good stuff.

I have been super busy for the past couple of weeks making arrangements for my relocation in August. I have finally decided on Surry Community College for viticulture and enology. I will be in school for another 2 years and living away from my beloved, which makes me very anxious, but I am very excited about my studies. So far I have qualified for $3100 in Pell Grants, so now I am getting started on scholarships and finacial aid loans. Today I began the housing search. It is very hard finding housing from 5 hours away.

21 Weeks

2009-05-11T09:13:00.000-07:00

My niece is 21 weeks preggie with twins! We were all excited to find out she is having boys and can't wait to find out the final decision on names. I have already started shopping for the pipsqueaks. COME ON ALREADY...don't keep me waiting. -grin

I have been going through a lot of changes and goal setting this week. I made decided that I will not be partisipating in the NYC holiday markets. It is just too much for me to take on over the summer in my condition. I am going to focus on what to do next for long term. It is so hard going through such a huge accident, b/c it always sets your head in a spin and you want to do EVERYTHING you had on your want list to do. I am trying to settle down and focus.

Wish me luck!

Family Visits

2009-05-07T04:17:00.000-07:00

I spent my weekend visiting my friends in Roanoke, VA. It was an much overdue visit and all my time was well spent with the Allison and her family. As you can tell we didn't let the rain get us down. I think I will go up for a visit again over the summer.

While on holiday we stop at in a vineyard valley on our way home. I came up with my Aug-Oct job....PICKING GRAPES! I am going to contact my favorite vineyards in Napa this week and then continue the search through next week. So here is the way it will play out. Sew from today until the end of July. Aug-Oct picking grapes...home for Nov. Thanks Giving to Xmas in NYC for the Union Square Holiday Market. then to Boulder for Rolfing School. YIKES...it is kind of scary to see in writing.

Remains...

2009-04-24T18:10:00.000-07:00

The photo above is one of many piles of trees remaining around the hood left over from the March snow storm we had here in Athens. It is hard to believe that a little over a month ago we had 18 inches of snow. Today we had a high of 90.

This week I made the decision to apply for to the Rolfing Institute for January courses. I also spent an hour on the phone with the woman from Urban Spaces in NYC and things sound promising that I will be a vendor at this years Holiday Market in Union Square. This means I will be a New Yorker for a month. It will be a good taste of the city and enable me to see if I really would like to be back in a city someday. It is all very exciting!

ICE ice baby...

2009-04-23T06:31:00.000-07:00

Today I recieved my acceptance email from ICE in Atlanta. This will be my first large market and I am very excited. This is one of the largest markets in the south and host some of the most well known artist throughout the south. It is going to be two days of hard work and lots of fun!

On other news, I am back at boot camp! My first class was yesterday and it was the most fun (and once again, hard work) that I have had in MONTHS! It is so good to be back.

Days at the Pool

2009-04-21T11:29:00.000-07:00

Faith opened her pool this past weekend and it is finally warm enough to join her and the girls for a day at the pool. I am excited to meet up with her new daughter-in-law, b/c I have some left over swimsuit from last summer I can't wait to see her in. Only a young sassy Latino can pull these off. RED HOT!

Last night was entertaining, but I should know better. I am just not a 'show' girl anymore. Late nights and drinking are just not my game. Next time I will just say 'no'.

Still waiting on the application for the Union Square Holiday Market in NYC, but I have been sewing my ass off. In hopes of getting excepted. Soon I will have to take a break and start photographing the 60 bags I will have made.

WILCO

2009-04-20T12:14:00.000-07:00

Tonight Janine and I have plans to attend Wilco.

I have to miss my opening day at boot camp because of the show, but I will make up for it Friday. I am so excited to return and it breaks my heart that I have to miss today. I will make up for it! You can count on that. -wink

I am back at sewing and it is going to be crazy. I have so much work to do, but all fun work.

I have also decided to seriously concider applying to the Rolfing Institute in Boulder .

Spring Saturdays

2009-04-19T09:08:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I spent the entire day outside working in the yard and planting for spring, while Brian worked on our new deck. Even though I set myself back from on the healing front, it was worth every moment. The sun and hard work in the outdoors raised my spirits and set me on the path towards happiness.

Tomorrow I rejoin my friends at Boot Camp. I feel like the first day I ever joined...scared and nervous. You would think I would have grown out of that. I hate to see how far I have been set back in boot camp, but it will be good for me to get back in the game. It is worse then starting over, this is like starting in the red. Wish me luck.

My Canadian

2009-04-07T11:30:00.000-07:00

Tonight is the viewing for Jay's mother. I have decided to stay back home and head to Atlanta for the funeral tomorrow. I think it best to leave the boys alone, so they can really focus on supporting Jay through this hard time.

I figure I can sew a few more bags tonight. I am starting to get excited about applying for the NYC Holiday Market. I really think I will get in, but I keep telling myself not to get my hopes up. It will be a huge disappointment if I don't, but I will find other markets to apply for.

Uneaten Dinners...

2009-04-04T09:03:00.000-07:00

Thursday was one of the rainiest days yet. I spent it running around town and cleaning the house. Brian and I had plans to make salmon for dinner. I love being in the kitchen with him. What a wonderful meal we created!! What a shame it didn't get eaten. After plating the food we found out that Jay's mother found out she has a week left and so I packed up a bag for Brian and he headed to Atlanta.

At this point I am so full of anger that I feel as if I am going to explode...so I got on the phone and asked Lee to come to Athens to baby set me tonight. We are ordering pizza and playing Wii.

While writing this I recieved a call from Brian saying that Jay's mother isn't going to make it through the day. I think it is time to put up the computer and cry.

Dog Walks

2009-04-02T12:03:00.000-07:00

These are a couple of the cuties I visit on my daily walks around the hood. As you can tell they are both vicious. I fear that the little whitie or as I like to call him, Honkey Dog, is going to be hitting the road this summer. I see the RV being packed up and prepped for traveling. He will be missed this summer.

We had our first meeting for next years empty bowl. It is great to get a start on things early, b/c we are really going to stir things up next year. I am once again in charge of the art auction and organization of the art opening/show. Oh, by the way the last auction went smashingly! We raised more then last year! GIDDY UP!

Spring Showers

2009-04-01T09:12:00.000-07:00

I was unable to walk today, due to rain. For some reason I am going through a big anger stage in my recovery and think I will spend the day in bed to avoid any challenges with others.

Team Work

2009-03-31T12:19:00.000-07:00

Today I joined a team of handbag designers on etsy. I am excited to be involved in the etsy handbag community. Check out our blog at Carried Away Team. As I always say, 'team work makes the dream work!'

I am becoming more and more motivated to be in shows this year and come spring I am going to start researching shows around the nation that happen in spring/summer (for next year). I know that up in the northeast there are great shows, so I think I will lay my focus up there. No reason not to get a little traveling in while making some money.

Still walking with Brian on a daily basis. I tried to do a little jog yesterday, but realize why the doc told me 'NO RUNNING'....ouchie. Back to speed walking and waiting on the day I can jog again.

I am spending a lot of time in the kitchen cooking. It has been very relaxing and fun. There is nothing like a healthy home cooked meal with loved ones to keep spirits up. I am blessed!

Walks

2009-03-30T15:50:00.000-07:00

The doc is telling me to walk twice a day for 30 minutes. It is a wonderful opportunity for me to watch spring gracefully move into Athens. Other then the walk, it seems like I spent the rest of my time right here in front of the computer doing taxes. At least it is over and I can enjoy the rest of my year.

Daily Reminders

2009-03-29T14:44:00.000-07:00

This artist was featured on the front page of etsy today. This wasn't the item, but to me it should have been. The minute I saw the feather it reminded me of my good friend Ruth. I found this feather for Ruth today. I wonder if it is a sign.

Sassafrass...

2009-03-29T06:48:00.000-07:00

Brian's Brithday (Lee, Brian, Janine)

I have had a wonderful weekend. I was able to make a trip to Atlanta to see Lee (above on left). I was delighted that he took me to a delish Italian hot spot and then we returned to his place to gossip and play Wii.

I have been able to spend many hours in the studio cutting fabric and hope to start sewing by Tuesday. Things are stacking up! It is scary and exciting to think I might have to sew over 2000 bags in only 8 months. I know I can do it, but it will take me hours a week and I will have to call in the troops that so kindly offered to help me cut. I am trying to update my etsy account daily (for the most part), so check out my new bags online at Lylou's Etsy.

Other news: I am getting around really well. I still am having some rib and knee issues, but the walking is helping keeping my spirits up. Today I am actually going to get on my stationary bike and see how well my knees can take it. Baby steps to getting back to WOW bootcamp.

Spring Walks

2009-03-25T08:08:00.000-07:00

I have been taking 2 30 minute walks a day...doctors orders. Today was the first day it rained durning my morning walk and it was WONDERFUL! The chill in the air, the light drops of spring rain, the CRAZY loud chirps of the birds...pure heaven! This evenings walk probably wont be as pleasant, b/c it is suppose to be pouring down. I wish I could substitute riding my stationary bike.

Candy...

2009-03-24T16:45:00.000-07:00

It feels so good to be back in the sewing room. After spending a month 1/2 in bed I am able to see the colors of life in a new way...brilliant, bright, beautiful. I am not only in the sewing room, but I am back in the kitchen with Brian. Dinners haven't tasted so good. Other then that, I am doing what the doctors tell me...walking, drinking lots of water, not letting the injuries/accident get me down.

I'm Back!

2009-03-23T16:40:00.000-07:00

It has been a long 6 weeks, but I have begun the slow journey to the final months of recovery. The best part of my world these days is that I am back in the sewing room. Since I can't reopen the boutique anytime soon, I have decided to put all my energy into sending out applications for some of the nationals top craft markets. ICE, RENEGADE and NYC Union Square Holiday Market. I am excited. I have always wanted to try, but never had the time or money to commit to such large shows. Wish me luck!

Broken Wings

2009-02-14T15:15:00.000-08:00

Aquarius by Jasey Jones

I will be taking a break from blogging due to injuries caused when a SUV hit me on my Vespa.

Dinner

2009-01-28T11:21:00.000-08:00

This have been a bit crazy lately and dinners out are happening a bit more often. I enjoy the time out, but I can't wait to get back to a calmer time and cooking at home.

I will be spending the next few weeks working on a new business plan for the boutique. I think I am going to relocate to a bigger and better place in Watkinsville. It is an exciting time, but I have to admit I am a bit scared. This is going to mean more hours and actually 'investing'. Wish me luck!

Northeast Georgia Food Bank

2009-01-20T08:55:00.000-08:00

This year I am working on the committee for the Empty Bowl. This is a luncheon open to the public that helps raise awareness about the Food Bank and what it does for the community. I am so excited to be part of it this year and have collected some of the finest pieces around for the art auction. It will only host 12 pieces of pottery from some of the best regional potters. This photo by Josh Payne is a beautiful bowl that was donated by Kelly King. It is definately something to show up and bid for...

9 Degrees

2009-01-17T10:42:00.000-08:00

The end of the week is so cold that Jenn and I had to meet up for a warm coffee and steamy conversation. It was great to get a day off and spend it willy nilly. I had lunch with Brian, met up with Jenn for a drink and then hung out with Mark and Christain until 6pm.

Durning the evening we had a wonderful importo party at the house...nothing big, just a few close friends for drinks. It is wonderful having a space that makes things easy to entertain. Speaking of housing, I think I have sold my house! It will be good to have that behind me. I am not making much money off it, but I could care less, since I didn't purchase it for an investment. I am getting what I paid for it, which will put a little cash in my pockets.

Rocket Man

2009-01-15T09:35:00.000-08:00

Harper, Brian's nephew, was a Rocket Man for Halloween this year. Doesn't that custom make you wanna scream?

Yesterday I was able to leave the boutique in the capable hands of my intern, while I drove out to Watkinsville to check out a prospective place to move Nourish. Mom went with me and after checking out the space we jumped next door for a manicure. It had been ages since I treated myself. It was a delight.

To top off the day Janine took Brian and I out for sushi. YUMMY! It was a perfect ending to a great day.

Growing Pains

2009-01-13T12:27:00.000-08:00

What a great holiday season! It was full of makets and great fun. As tired I as was by the end of the Flicker Holiday Market, it was all worth it. I spent so much time laughing and carrying on that the cold hardly effected me.

Jasey and I are thinking about pushing the limit and applying for next years Union Square Holiday Market in NYC. ARE WE SERIOUS? REALLY? ARE WE CRAZY? Yes, we are. I have started the ball in motion and contacted the Urban Spaces for information. I will be spending ALL of my free time sewing this next year.

NYC

2009-01-09T02:08:00.000-08:00

Brian and I just returned from a wonderful trip to New York. It was full of good food, art and relaxation. It was a wonderful break from the craziness of the holidays. We were able to stay in a hotel in the city, two blocks off Central Park, so we were close to the sites we love...the MET, MOMA, food (-grin). It was a good changed to be able to spend all of our time in the city. The thing I didn't release is that at anytime I could go back to the hotel and rest. Who would have thought...

Happy New Year Friends!

Last Minute

2008-12-30T13:21:00.000-08:00

Tonight we are celebrating Xmas with my parents. Tomorrow we are spending the evening getting ready for our trip to NYC. Laundry, cleaning, packing, shopping...things I normally would have had done WEEKS ago. Boy have times changed. Where does all my time go?

I am looking forward to time away from Athens with long walks and great art.

Family Units

2008-12-29T14:46:00.000-08:00

Christmas Morning...getting ready to cook.

The holidays are going GREAT! I closed the boutique on the eve and will be returning to work for two days as of tomorrow. I have spent the time off entertaining friends at the lodge, watching TV, playing Wii, cooking and staying up late. I figure this is a good time to do it, since as of the 5th I will be back in the grind of getting up at 4.30am. I am living the good life.

Steve Gray and Family (LOVE IT!)

Say TREEEES!

2008-12-24T08:54:00.000-08:00

Today is the last day of the shopping holiday season, so once again I am at the boutique ready and waiting for those last minute shoppers.

Brian is in Atl, so Lee is picking me up from work and we are making dinner at the house. Jasey will be joining us after he wraps up work at his studio. Let the Wii begin! I have a feeling the evening will be filled with laughter.

Grass in Winter?

2008-12-23T13:54:00.000-08:00

What is new: I am down to a 10.08 minute mile. I am still in boot camp and loving it. I have been spending my holidays working my butt off. Days at the boutique, weekends at holiday markets and evenings sewing or drinking. 'Tis the season for celebration.

Lee is coming into town on Xmas Eve and we are gathering around the table to gossip, while Brian is at his mother's for dinner. It will be good to spend QT with my boy. It has been too long.

I am heading to NYC on the 1st of January, where I have lined up a 7K run at 8.30am on Saturday morning. I look forward a great holiday in the city. We plan to spend our days walking the MET, sipping coffee, hitting MOMA and definitely make a trip to Rudy's. Other then that I have nothing planned and love it. Relaxing and low stress is on the menu.

Happy Camper

2008-12-13T11:14:00.000-08:00

I have an old friend that has ventured out on his own. After being head brewmeister at the Wynkoop Brewery for years, Kyle has finally opened his own micro-brew pub in Denver.

CONGRATS ON A JOB WELL DONE!

Check out Kyle's new place NorthStar.

Fun on Facebook

2008-12-10T08:50:00.000-08:00

Isn't it wonderful who you reconnect with on facebook? This is a photo of one of my favorite men in the whole wide world. We spent many hours over the years laughing together. For some reason we lost track of one another, but now we are once again FOUND!

Best Sunday

2008-12-08T11:10:00.000-08:00

I had the best Sunday in many months! Brian and I spent the morning tracking down holiday gifts for the family and right around noon we wrapped it up and went out for a beer. It has been close to a year or more since I have had the time to enjoy a nice Sunday brew with friends. Janine was able to join us, so the conversation was full of laughter. Perfect way to end a week.

Sweet and Tangy

2008-12-04T13:35:00.000-08:00

Tonight Brian is staying at his mother's in Atlanta. It will be strange to have the house to myself. Dogs on the bed, long hot showers, ice cream for dinner, bad tv! unfortunately, I will not be doing any of these things, b/c I will have to be working on Nourish stuff tonight. If I am good I might treat myself to a bowl of soup and crackers, but that will most likely be the extent of it. --4.30am bootcamp, so I will have to be good. (will I be taking off any more lbs this month....it is a mystery)

Isqk

2008-11-29T09:51:00.000-08:00

Talk about buck wild! Isqk has been enjoying the freakishly warm weather. We, the dogs and I, spent the holiday sitting on the back patio ready, while the brisket was cooking. Once Lee arrived it was time for a little eating and CSI: NY. After Ruth arrived we were down with the new Mariokart we purchased for the Wii. Talk about a holiday! -grin

Cold...

2008-11-19T13:22:00.000-08:00

Today is was 20 degrees at boot camp. I layered up and come to find out we spent the entire class in the gym. My legs felt like someone laid concrete in them after an hour workout. I can't tell if it is because I was sick or if I am just out of shape (again). I need to make up a class, so I am hitting camp again tonight. It will be good for me, since I am doing another 5K this weekend. I will need all the help I can get to make it through. What doesn't kill you only makes you stronger.

Back at it....

2008-11-12T14:01:00.000-08:00

So, I show up at UGA ready to speak to a classroom of 100 students and find out the class is TONGIHT. Soooo, I called Brian and we met for a drink at the National, which turned to dinner and then desert. I made it home in time to watch RHA and catch a very small glimpse of Nicacelly's dress and then off to bed.

After not doing anything (except a 4 mile walk) since last Friday, due to a bad stomach, I got up and worked my ass off at bootcamp. I can really see improvement in my performance.

jogged, the entire class today! This would make me REALLY happy, if I could see results in my body as well....DAMN IT, will I ever change?

Tearful

2008-11-11T12:49:00.000-08:00

For the first time in over two years of dating I was a bitch and yelled at Brian. I don't know what got into me. I think it is the stress of the boutique being slow, trying to wrap up things at the cottage and dealing with the upcoming holidays. I feel terrible. Terrible in a way that I have never felt before. On the verge of crying, yet I know things will be ok. Shit like that is something you can never take back. I had forgotten what it felt like and now that I have experienced it again...it will never happen again.

Saturday Fun...

2008-11-10T13:59:00.000-08:00

Brian and I took the day and went to Atlanta to do a little shopping. He hit lunch over in Norcross located a short walk from Trader Joes. This area of town is known for its 'money'. I couldn't help but notice the line of over sized gas guzzling cars in the parking area...only in America.

Anyway, the trip was fun, but we didn't accomplish much...no fabric for the curtains I want to sew and no chair for the 'great' room, but I did get this KICKASS scratch on my forehead (below). I put it there with my own fingernail. That is just how talented I can be.

Morning Coffee

2008-11-07T10:07:00.000-08:00

Yes, you read right...I have started drinking coffee. After 20 years of being caffeine free I am swimming the a pool of gourmet coffee and the water is fine...jump in! I have one mug a day and it is the perfect amount to get that lazy brain of my moving at full speed. I never knew life could be so sweet...CNN Morning Express and coffee from Healthy Gourmet.

One Example

2008-11-06T09:31:00.000-08:00

This is just one example of how bad the dogs have it these days. While Brian is hard at work building them a beautiful stone floored dog run, they are sun bathing. THE HORROR! The horror.

Working Sunday

2008-11-05T09:29:00.000-08:00

Sunday I started a big project for the boutique. It sounds terrible for someone to work 7 days a week, but it was a really fun project, so I didn't mind. Of course, the dogs spent most of the day sleeping at my feet. It was all Iskq had in her to stand for the photo. -grin

Art in Life

2008-11-01T10:01:00.000-07:00

There are times in life when I find that even most mondain object can become exquisite.

End of the Month

2008-10-31T08:51:00.000-07:00

Today's Photo

So my assesment was a bust...no really change except I GAINED 5lbs. Talk about a doggie downer. I have been grumpy ever since I found out on Tuesday. April was very surprised, b/c she has noticed a change in my body (and so has everyone else). Maybe I am just building muscle. Who knows?

The results of my monthly timings
Timed Mile: 14.38 - 13.16 - 10.43
Minute Sit-ups: not timed today

Minute Push-Ups: not timed today

1st Photo

Count Down

2008-10-30T16:05:00.000-07:00

Owen

Tonight I organized my studio to the point I can work in it. I am starting our Halloween customs tonight and I need all the space I can get. Wish me luck. This is my first attempt at apparel.

Brrrr....

2008-10-25T11:28:00.000-07:00

Winter is taking over! The mornings are cold, icy and rainy. both make for a challenging boot camp, but I seem to be hanging in there.

I walk/ran my first 5K today in 39.30 minutes and it was ROCKIN! It was on the UGA campus and if you have never been I can tell you that there are some hills that at 24 I had a hard time capping on a bike. Today I walked up them, but I did it with all I had and during moments of desperation (teehee) I could hear April's voice in my head saying, "keep those arms moving. they will get you up that hill.' and low and behold...THEY DID!

In celebration of the completion (Brian did as well) I hit Bulldog Sporting goods immediately after for a new sports bra, warming socks, a winter workout vest and a pair of Nike running gloves. I love my new gloves so much that I am calling them 'driving gloves' today, so that I can wear them even though it is 60 degrees outside. Brian got a bag of gourmet coffee from Ron at Healthy Gourmet.

Hats

2008-10-24T10:00:00.000-07:00

When packing up the closets I ran across my old cowgirl hats, so I decided that I need to start wearing them again. I began with a trip to Jasey's studio, which lead to putting on my boots, which lead to dinner at the National all 'Western' and shit...very 'tomboy' of me.

I am doing my first 5K tomorrow. It is a run/walk, so I am not that scared of it. Brian is joining me, along with a girl from the evening WOW camp. I am excited to see how it feels. I will mostly be walking, but I do hope to run at least 2.5 of the 5.

Hair

2008-10-23T13:32:00.000-07:00

The weather is wonderful around Athens these days. I have been spending time in the new back yard admiring the new fence and chasing the dogs around the yard. It is so much fun to play with them these days. Like me, they have lost weight and it shows in their spirits. I tried to take a photo of them, but they wouldn't/couldn't sit still long enough for the photo.

1/2 and no change....

2008-10-15T10:01:00.000-07:00

Person Goals for the month:

increase my time line by 1.22 minutes

increase my push ups by 1 regular

increase my sit ups by 1 regular

decrease my body fat by .3%

decrease my wieght by 3 lbs

This month has been a hard one for me. I have been to everyday of boot camp, but my days off haven't been spent wisely. I fear that at the end of the month I will see no change. I still have 15 days, so I better get my ass in gear and make it happen.

Today I sent off to the boutique is this wonderful workout gear (NOT), b/c I knew I would be busy all morning reworking the boutique after a big trunk show I had at the Phi Mu house. I am also planning on making up boot camp at 6pm, b/c I couldn't get my lazy ass out of bed after watching a movie until 11 pm.

Torta Loca!

2008-10-04T11:56:00.000-07:00

Well, today I went a little crazy and shared a torta with Brian. I will just have to put in a harder mile or more after work. Just to let you know how crazy I have become for W.O.W., I have written the leader to find out how much more it would be for me to attend sessions 5 mornings a week for one month. WHAT AM I THINKING!? I spent the end of my mile jogging last Friday and now that I have had a taste I can't wait to get better. I want it NOW and I figure 5 days a week would really kick start me.

Timed Mile

2008-10-03T08:54:00.000-07:00

The results of my monthly timings

Timed Mile: 14.38 - 13.16

Minute Sit-ups: 17 reg - 18 reg and 15 crunch

Minute Push-Ups: 20 modified - 2 reg and 24 modified

Moderate Aerobic Exercise for 30 Minutes a Day, 5 Days a Week·

A minimum of 30 minutes a day. The 30 minutes can be in 10 minute increments.

At least 5 days a week. ·

What Does Moderate Feel Like? A moderate level of activity noticeably increases your heart rate and breathing rate. You may sweat, but you are still able to carry on a conversation. ·

Kinds of Exercise: Brisk walking, easy jogging, treadmilling, elliptical trainer, bike riding, swimming, dancing. ·

What Doesn't Count: An easy walk of under 10 minutes doesn't count as aerobic activity.

You can build moderate activity by walking briskly for at least 10 minutes to the bus, etc. But just adding steps on your pedometer doesn't count.

-9.2

2008-09-30T11:36:00.000-07:00

the RESULTS!

9/6/08 9/30/08

BMI: 26.70-25.20

Weight: 170.60-161.40

Body Fat: 33.3%-32.7%

Neck: 13.50-13.00

Chest: 37.75-37.00

Waist: 33.90-32.75

Hips: 43.50-42.50
R Bicep: 12.00-12.00

R Thigh: 25.75-24.90

For the Birds

2008-09-19T12:39:00.001-07:00

This was a great weekend. Ruth stop by on Friday to show me some of her new paintings. All of which I loved. She was in a market at the Lyndon House Saturday morning, so I had a sneak preview.

Saturday Brian and I got up early so we could be one of the first to walk into the market. It paid off because Brian was able to have his pick of all the wonderful art around us and we went home with absolute treasures. It was wonderful seeing him excited about purchasing art. We are now going to have one of the coolest homes in Athens. -wink

I was able to take Saturday off. My niece-in-law was in town and said she would work for me. It was wonderful to have it off and I ended up spending it with her son, my great nephew, running around town.

Sunday Brian and I went to Atlanta and bought our new sofa and a bed for the master bedroom. We converted back to a futon and I think it will really make a difference on my back. I can't wait to get it set up and ready to use.

Monday I didn't know how to act after having two days off, so I milled around the boutique.

WEEKEND!

2008-09-19T12:39:00.000-07:00

painting by Ruth Allen

Tonight Brian is arriving home. It has taken me all week to adjust to the fact that he will not be leaving for Atlanta on Monday morning and I imagine it really won't hit me until Sunday night. Tonight after work we are entertaining at the new house, just 6 people, but it should be nice. We will all have to sit on the patio, b/c there is not interior furniture over there. That will happen over the course of the next week. You will be happy to know that I am taking my camera with me tonight, so that I can show you the progress that has been made over the course of the last month...still some work to be done, but it is a start.

AWESOME!

2008-09-18T12:04:00.000-07:00

April, on the left in the blue dress, is the leader of WOW! She is a tiny spunky woman that is ready to go the minute she walks in the door. Behind her is Marti, the friend of mine that actually encourage me to join WOW. Thank you Marti!

BARF!!!

2008-09-16T12:28:00.000-07:00

Today is Brian and my anniversary. It has been 2 years to the day that we romantically met on the busy streets of Athens GA. Him walking to his car and me peeing off a bumper. Oh the memories. To be young again. -grin

He is coming to town and taking me to the Five and Ten for oysters. YUMMY! I bought him a book George Washington on Leadership. How romantic is that?

BEFORE

2008-09-15T10:38:00.000-07:00

I got my act together today and took a 'before' photo...one week in, but I imagine not much has changed in a week. The plan is to take off 30lbs in the next year. Do you think I should take a photo at the end of each month or at the end of my 6 month session?

HOLY WOW!

2008-09-11T09:30:00.000-07:00

Monday I started WOW and it is life changing. I thought it would be a battle for me to quit smoking and drinking, but this boot camp doesn't stop at 6.45am...it is an everyday all day thing. They continually encourage us to eat and live well, while running our ass into the ground. -grin The entire thing makes me feel younger and happier. It is like PE class from jr. high, but at 41 years old...and my body isn't used to this much fun. Waking up at 4.30am isn't a challenge either. It is easy when you know you are on your way to a better heart.

Yesterday we were divided into groups of 7 to accomplish our workout. It was wonderful for me to work closely with 6 other women and get to know them and their abilities. They were encouraging and happy to have me on board. I feel more like the group after only 2 classes. It is so wonderful to have the support of other women around me and I look forward to the next 6 months of training.

You never know...I might be running the Peachtree next year.

Lunch Time

2008-09-03T11:41:00.000-07:00

Monday I start boot camp and this week I am working towards a better Lylou. I am going to the store this afternoon to buy gum to stop smoking (in case I am too weak to quit on my own). I knocked off the sauce. I am getting up at 6am...working my way to 4.30am by Sunday. I am getting on my bike tonight to start working on lung capacity. Last but not lease, I am getting the diet rolling tomorrow (today I am having my last burger and baked potato) with my bi-annual cleanse. It is going to be such a life changing experience that ya'll may not recognise this woman by next August. I will be as clean and healthy as the rest of you.

Besides all the fun and games I will be balancing the bank statements tonight, cleaning up around the 'rental' (as it is now called), and hanging with the pups.

Prrrrr.

2008-09-02T13:00:00.000-07:00

What the hell?! I don't know whether to laugh or cry.
Kitty Wigs

Whew...

2008-08-28T11:22:00.000-07:00

My life has been so crazy lately that Ii don't know where to shit or go blind. I feel as if I am being pulled in a million different directions at every moment. There are times that I feel as if I am going to break down and cry, but I hold myself together and push through. I just keep telling myself that it will calm down soon and I wont have to deal with all of these things on my own in FIVE more weeks.

Things I have taken care of this week.

1. meet 4 landscapers to get estimates on putting up a retaining wall

2. worked with the floor man to get the ball rolling on carpet at the boutique

3. had an interview with Athens Magazine about a holiday article on Nourish

4. meet with 3 designers about placing product in Nourish (outside of hours)

5. started an issue with the landlord over the heating and cooling of the building

6. packed 8 boxes to transport to the lodge

7. watched an hour of the democratic convention

8. started, but haven't finished, laundry

9. worked 8 hours at my part-time job

10. dealt with the removal of an old washer and dryer from the lodge

On the brink

2008-08-26T09:00:00.000-07:00

As you can see by my rough appearance I am a little worn down. I had to laugh when viewed this photo because the camera has played tricks...no, that isn't a black eye it is a shadow caused by my glasses. I also do not have peripheral neuropathy.

A Life

2008-08-10T14:14:00.000-07:00

Sahar last February

I have decided to make some fun changes in my life this upcoming month. I am joining WOW and get back in shape over the next year. I have decided to set down and make some personal goals for myself for the next 12 months. It is going to be a busy year and after loosing track of my life the past 8 months it is time to refocus attention on Lylou. I have six weeks alone and it will be a great time for reflection and goal setting. It is exciting and scary.

Bathrooms

2008-08-05T12:03:00.000-07:00

OMG...it is totally 60's. The bathrooms haven't been remodled since they were installed in 1968. They are not much to look at, but they are clean. Mark my words, in the next 12 months i will be taking on the project of upgrading the bathrooms. There is no room in my life for carpet in a bathroom.

COME ON!

Sunlight

2008-08-04T10:27:00.000-07:00

(dinning room)

The dinning room is large enough for us to put a dinner table that seats 10-12 people in it. It will be nice to start entertaining again. 1st party: House Warming.

(living room)

On Saturday I decided that I am going to start calling the new house 'the lodge'. I went so far as to purchase invitations with an elk on them.

Cigar Anyone?

2008-08-01T12:46:00.000-07:00

This is a photo of the family room. The fireplace has NEVER been used and is capped, so you know what I will be doing this winter while Brian is cooking. I can sit it now, the dogs curled up on the floor, me wrapped in a blanket reading a good book. Oh who am I kidding? I will most likely be in my sewing room. -grin

The Loft

2008-07-31T10:49:00.001-07:00

(view from the family room)

(the loft - this will be Brian's reading room)

(view from the loft into the family room)

The Kitchen

2008-07-30T09:01:00.001-07:00

(entering from the dinning room)

The kitchen is outdated, but it is clean and functional. To hold us over until we decide to embark on updating it, we are just going to remove the paper and paint it. It will be fine for a year or two in this shape.

(entering from the garage)

The L-shape is interesting, but going from a closet sized kitchen to this is going to be wonderful! Brian and will be able to cook together comfortably.

(the kitchen nook)

East Side

2008-07-29T09:54:00.000-07:00

(looking to the east lot from the front of the house)

( Looking down the east lot from the street)

Brian and I got up early to meet a landscaper over at the house to discuss clearing the land in the back of the house to make a yard. At first glace it doesn't look like it would be that much of a deal, but after going around and marking trees to be cut down you realize that it is a couple days of full work from a complete crew and a couple of bobcats.

The surveyor will be out the begining of this week to mark our property. We don't intend on clearing the entire property in the back of the house to make the yard, but it will be nice to know exactly where ours begins and ends. It hasn't been surveyed since 1968. I guess the one owner that had it already knew, so there was no need.

(looking back at the house 1/2 in the east lot)

New Place

2008-07-28T11:04:00.000-07:00

(from the drive and street)

We took the old folks over to see the exterior of the house on Friday. It was a surprise for them and they were so excited that they treated us to dinner. The sizes of the lots are amazing, but there is a lot of work to be done. Old trees that either need removed or nurtured, Clearing land, grading, planting (building a pool...teehee. a girl can dream).

(from the drive leading to the front door)

We have dogwoods, magnolias, maple, azaleas, and more!

I only have time to show the home and the west side yard. I will post the east side yard and back yard at a later date.

(from across the street on the west side of the house)

(from the end of our lot on the west side)

Rental

2008-07-28T10:46:00.000-07:00

Brian and I spent Saturday, before I headed to work, cutting down the overgrown pines in the front yard and landscaping for turning the place into a rental. It is just a start, but it already looks better. Put in some monkey grass for a boarder along the drive and some decorative pine straw and BAM! the exterior will be finished.

We ordered the french doors and windows for the back patio yesterday and will install them saturday/sunday. We are prepping all of the walls for painting the entire house a beautiful soothing white that will make the home warm and comfy. It is the same white that we will be painting our home to be. We will toss in a wall with closets between the studios to make them back into bedrooms...put in some trundle windows to allow light through and after a a door replacements they will be finished. When all is said and done I think we have a 4 day job ahead of us.

I-I-IKEA

2008-07-24T11:24:00.000-07:00

Dad let us use his truck to pick up shelving from the LARGEST Ikea store I have ever stepped foot in. It is always stressful for me to walk into such large shopping venues, but we managed to pick out shelves, load them on the cart and pay for them in under 45 minutes. We are waiting on putting them together, b/c on the way home Brian and I decided to buy a bigger house and rent mine out. The next day we were checking listings and looking at houses and by golly I think we may have found one.

Spike

2008-07-23T11:38:00.000-07:00

Spike and I had a wonderful visit on his last trip to Athens. We spent all day at the pool and drank Root Beer Floats for dinner. Perfect way to live!

Nephews

2008-07-22T09:03:00.000-07:00

Here is a photo of all three of my nephews. The two older (Brandon top and Blaine bottom) are the little dumplings I would babysit and the little tike is my great nephew. What cuties! I was able to spend a week with them over the 4th of July and it felt so good to be around family. I can't remember the last time my sister and her family, along with mom, dad and I were all together. It was superfly fun.

Say Cheese!

2008-07-19T13:38:00.000-07:00

Jayne, Brian and I went out for wine and cheese. I think I will start calling it fika! There was a slight breeze in the air that made it seem like spring. We sipped red wine, ate goat cheese and laughter. After we cleaned the plate we headed to The Go Bar for a little karaoke and YES I did sing. I broke out a little Queen, Men at Work and Hall and Oats. BRING IT ON!

Tomorrow Brian and I are heading to Atlanta to buy shelving for his den and a set for the tv room. We have started renovation beginning with his den. after it is complete I think we will move into the tv room and make it more functional and comfortable. By the time we are finished guest will we able to enjoy a comfortable new guest room/tv room. I will take before and after photos.

Swimming

2008-07-10T14:26:00.000-07:00

Nothing like a bag of Sun Chips and french onion dip after a day at the pool. Nolan, my great nephew, has kept all of us on the run. We have spent three days at the pool and have love every one of them. I hope to have some photos from the rest of the week, but you will have to wait on my sister.

Side Car

2008-07-08T03:28:00.001-07:00

The boutique has been closed since last Friday and I have been having the time of my life. I went shopping for dressers in Atlanta yesterday. The weather has been rainy, but we have still managed to enjoy every moment. My entire family is in town for a reunion and we have fit in hours of QT. Today I think I will take them by the boutique and then swimming. Hopefully I will get photos today.

YUMMY YUMMY

2008-07-02T14:43:00.000-07:00

The best thing about getting out of work on a sunny day is visiting Ron at Healthy Gourmet. He always has out delicious samples and wine to taste and you can't leave without buying something yummy for your tummy. On the last visit I had to buy capers, a delish goat cheese and a bottle of wine. We ate it for dinner that night with Lee.