The Life of Coco

30 Days of Vegan

2011-12-07T06:45:00.001-06:00

Well, it's day 30 of my vegan challenge! I really feel great (except for the brief stomach flu incident that had NOTHING to do with being vegan...Mom!) and I am going to choose to be vegan, for now on...maybe not forever but I am so pleased with the choices I have been making everyday that I want to continue. I will definitely make better choices through the holidays than I have in the past...I have been known to eat a lot of Grandma Brown's shortbread in one sitting!!!

Some discoveries over the past couple weeks have been:
I attempted a pine nut "cheese" it was a wee bit too onion-y (I used an onion instead of the shallot the recipe called for) but it was a great snack in celery with chia seeds on top for extra nutrition points!

Stella's veggie burgers are vegan...without the cilantro sauce! I just added guacamole and presto...instant YUM! (well not instant...the guys do have to cook them...but I don't cook them so it's zero effort for me!)

After my stomach flu I was craving some macaroni and "cheese" I learned that "Mac & Chreese" is NOT a great substitute for Kraft Dinner!! I have also decided that I should just make noodles with Daiya "cheddar shards" ( I LOVE the names they come up with for substitutes!!) if I have this craving again as the amount of preservatives in KD or the like is horrendous!

So AMAZING for special coffee treats!!!

I topped our Saturday morning fruit salads with this coconut milk yogurt substitute! It was amazing! I have to say out everything I miss yogurt only! This is a PERFECT substitute! The fruit salad was amazing too...it was holiday inspired with fresh organic raspberries, kiwi, grapefruit and pomegranate. Even though it looked like a crime scene in my kitchen after getting into that pomegranate...I highly recommend adding this to your next fruit salad...it was really yummy to have all those juicy seeds...and it made the fruit salad festive...if you are into that sort of thing!

Remember my $2 find at the thrift store a few weeks back? YUP here it is!! I LOVE it...it reminds me of being 10 and I like that! hee hee

This Saturday G and I are taking our nephew out to find a tree! I'm hoping for the above type tree! I hope the weather is nice as it would be nice to have alot of the family out with us looking for trees...I am getting really excited! I haven't done this in years! I usually feel bad about "killing" a tree but this year I will have a special blessing for the tree before we take it and have faith that a new sappling will be planted in his place in the spring...(I know, I know...but that is how I roll!)

http://www.pickyourownchristmastree.org/XMT.php?URL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.timbertrails.ca%2F

Really excited to make some precious memories this weekend! I am also going to work on gratefulness and read the following quote everyday.

"Every day, think as you wake up, today I am fortunate to be alive, I have a precious human life, I am not going to waste it. I am going to use all my energies to develop myself, to expand my heart out to others; to achieve enlightenment for the benefit of all beings. I am going to have kind thoughts towards others, I am not going to get angry or think badly about others. I am going to benefit others as much as I can."

-- Dalai Lama

I am looking forward to sharing my new experiences in the days to come with you!

LOVE

2011-11-19T08:40:00.001-06:00

http://issuu.com/splendidlyhomemade/docs/winter2011/46

https://www.jossandmain.com/Octopus-Candleholders---Set-of-2~VZK1017~E80.html

http://sweetpaul.typepad.com/my_weblog/2011/10/cr.html

http://alostfeather.blogspot.com/2011/10/diy-moss-terrarium.html

http://www.purlbee.com/big-snowy-owl/

Day 13 Vegan

2011-11-19T06:05:00.001-06:00

crafted from fabric & cork

Well...it's been a long stressful week and I got myself a touch of the flu (viral or stress...I'm not sure) For you non-believers, I'm fairly certain it is NOT because I haven't eaten animal protein in 13 days!

Sunday night dinner at my mom's was awesome! I have to say I was pleasantly surprised! Considering Mom told me to F-Off when I told her about wanting to try the 30 day Vegan Challenge, I really hadn't expected her to cook us a full vegan dinner! She made a Vegetable Paella (if you run into Mom...ask her to say PAELLA...it makes me giggle everytime!) that was delicious with corn and coleslaw, vegan bread and margarine, followed with this amazing bunt cake...banana chocolate! YUM!! In the midst of this family dinner, my husband somehow convinced my Step-Dad to try the 30 day Vegan Challenge...Mom is super thrilled about this!!! LOL Last I heard she was making Seitan and he has been vegan 5 days!!!!

Murphy is not vegan

I have discovered a new blog http://mynewroots.blogspot.com/ It is so inspiring! Her creations are beautiful. I think I will try the Black Bean Chili Chocolate cookies this weekend! I am also going to make a Red Lentil Pate http://www.food.com/recipeprint.do?rid=89298 to go with http://stellas.ca baguettes to share with friends. I have discovered two quick delicious dinners this week:

1. steam potato, carrot, swiss chard, edamam beans tossed with margarine (vegan of course) dill and salt...super fast easy dinner for when you are tired from a stressful day at work and cannot call and order pizza because you are on the 30 day Vegan Challenge!

2. Saute onions in a soup pot, add 1 carton of veggie stalk, a bag of frozen veggies, a can of white kidney beans (or whatever beans/lentils you have in your pantry) and rice pasta...viola...instant vegan soup!!!

This week has been challenging for me. Not because I'm craving any cheese or eggs...or whatever I thought I would be freaking out about, by now, but because choosing to eat this way takes preparation and organization...two things I am VERY bad at. I'm super happy I've discovered some Vegan Fast Food! But really want to cook some new dishes this week so I'd better get organized!

I have managed to knit out a dish cloth, a cowl and a penis sock....OK, it's really going to be a head band thingy (official name) I will post pictures when it's done as I have big plans for the HBT! I also spent a whole $6 at the local thrift store and got the most awesome 2 items!!!

This Picasso cost $4 and albeit a print (LOL) is priceless and so inspiring to me! My remaining $2 spent will be in my next post...CLIFF HANGER...hee hee

Hope everyone has an amazing weekend!
xoxo coco

Lazy solitary weekend

2011-11-13T11:28:00.001-06:00

I have just made myself some double love tea! It's been a fairly quiet weekend for me as G has worked all weekend and is currently there again as I type...sigh

Thank Goddess for girlfriends and wine! Friday night was super fun and has kept me out of a funk for the rest of the weekend.

Day 5 & 6 of the vegan challenge have been awesome! Still no cravings for cheese! I really thought this would be the one thing that would be making me go crazy by now...but nope...all good!

We have been eating this http://familyhw.com/2011/10/african-sweet-potato-and-peanut-stew/

since Friday night! It's super delish! I will, however, next time add more heat (cayenne) and add some greens (kale, Swiss chard or spinach) I made basmatti rice and don't forget the cilantro (which I did for this picture!) it really helps to layer the symphony of tastes perfectly.

I'm also excited to report my weight loss tomorrow after a full week being vegan. I'm not exactly sure how much I've lost but I sure feel good...stay tuned...

A little know fact about me...I'm a wool hoarder! I cannot help myself. I see wool, I must have it. Then I start simple projects and rarely finish them. Almost every one of my needles have a half finished something on them! So today, I vow to finish SOMETHING in my knitting basket (ok, I may have more than one knitting basket, I am also a basket collector and wool looks really nice in baskets...I'm just saying).

So bottoms up "le double thé d'amour" and a knitting I will go!

Feelin' great!

2011-11-11T07:22:00.001-06:00

(on the burner today Body Shop's Silver Fir)

Day 3 and 4 are behind me on my 30 Day vegan challange and I feel amazing! I really am finding it almost unbelievable how much energy I have. This is so huge considering I find this time of year super hard. Since being diagnosed with being crazy...(not the exact medical diagnosis) I have struggled with the medication prescribed to me. I decided a couple of months ago to try to treat myself (not the best idea...I know what my doctor will say about this!) with diet and excersise. I just didn't like how the meds made me feel. I just feel so especially awesome this week! I could chalk it up to coincedence, I suppose, but it has been quite grey here and that would normally have me in bed with the duvet over my head while all my work piles up around me, I really think this is helping. I actually am looking forward to cleaning my house today...if you know me, you know this is HUGE! I also am going to tackle my little studio as I have been wanting to start making art again!? YAY!

So...as you can see this diet of plant-based foods, is pretty much a miracle to me! I have looked forward to my workouts all week, which NEVER happens!

Jewel is loving my new verve for morning workouts too! Here she is vigorously rubbing herself on my runners while I'm doing my stretches...might I also note she drooled all over my yoga mat! She is so happy, I'm happy!

I have been sticking to the same breakfast all week of quinoa and a Vega shake and ate at Boon Burger again for lunch on Wednesday to support them for the TV filming. I ate left over lemony potatoes on Wednesday night. Last night I made our favourite cassorole from my favorite vegan blog http://blog.fatfreevegan.com/2010/09/asparagus-and-chickpea-casserole.html It is such a yummy comfort food!

I am looking forward to trying some new recipes this weekend as well as getting together with my most favorite girls tonight...thank goddess wine is vegan!

"To cut two carrots with one knife"

2011-11-09T07:06:00.000-06:00

Today I started off my day with yoga practice at a Sunrise Yoga class here in town (at 6AM!) , lead by a good friend...such a lovely way to start the day! It is difficult for me lately to get up that early with the shortened days...but I have to remember how good I feel when I do...

Day 2 - Vegan: I ate the same breakfast as yesterday and snacked on a handful of cashews and an apple.

For lunch we went to Boon Burger http://www.boonburger.ca/
Our friend owns this awesome vegan restaurant and a film crew is in this week from "You Gotta Eat Here" so we went to show our support! We are going back tomorrow as well...good thing the food is amazing...I have no problem eating here two days in a row! I will, however, venture from my Salsa Burger (which I have EVERY time)!

I snacked on a banana and an orange and made a dish that I didn't take a picture of...
I steamed potato, carrot, kale and tossed with margarine, juice from half a lemon, fresh dill, dry thyme and salt. I loved the flavor! The lemon was nice to cut the bitterness of the kale and it was super easy to make.

I really feel great...I am surprised at how great I feel so quickly! I love feeling proud of my choices. In my copy of "Vegan's Daily Companion" it is recommended to use "compassionate alternatives" for expressions such as kill two birds with one stone! She suggests to cut two carrots with one knife! I can't say it falls off the tongue very easily but I'll give it a shot! Though my family will really think I've taken flight over the cuckoo's nest...I think that expression is still OK, isn't it?

Day 1 Vegan

2011-11-08T07:42:00.000-06:00

Well, I have to say that my first day as a Vegan was awesome!! I never once felt deprived and I will share my day meals with you...
Breakfast is the picture above...Quinoa with raisins and cinnoman and a glass of Soy mixed with Vega powder http://myvega.com/ (chai vanilla flavor...yum) See how the sheepie 1 & 2 love the quinoa too!

I had a snack of a banana mid morning at work then....

for lunch I ordered cabbage soup, house salad and sourdough toast (unbuttered of course) from http://stellas.ca I am very lucky to work at Stella's Cafe where we have a number of Vegan options.
I had a mid afternoon snack of an apple and came home and made this...

Basmati rice with sauted Kale and tofu...it was amazing!!! I just used a tablespoon of Coconut oil, ginger, garlic and Bragg's and sauted up the tofu and kale...yummmmmy!! (the photography choice wasn't smart...live and learn)

Anyone else doing the challange?
Looking forward to Day 2!

Vegan for 30 days

2011-11-07T06:41:00.000-06:00

Has anyone watched Forks over Knives? http://www.forksoverknives.com/
Grant and I were blown away by the information in this film...so we and our friend/boss are taking the challenge...
http://www.compassionatecooks.com/

This book will be my every morning read and inspiration! The picture on the cover of her hugging a cow and the fact that her name is Colleen led me to believe this was for me!

So for the next 30 days we are going to live and eat Vegan! I have looked up a lot of resources and plan on making delicious meals with the help of Vegan's Daily Companion book as well as the awesome blog I follow
http://blog.fatfreevegan.com/

I love her recipes!! So today's focus (according to my new bible) is Kale!

I love Kale!!! So I will buy some on my way home and share how I used this in my dinner for tonight!

For the next 30 days I plan on blogging about my experiences and hope some of you will join me as I really feel so passionate about this decision! For my health and for the planet!
So who's in???? I know you want to!!!

YUM

2010-07-08T06:22:00.000-05:00

for a good time add ice!

Please go to the above link to find out what you need to create some "good times"! YUM!

Flower sash

2010-07-07T05:58:00.000-05:00

How to make right here!

So super cute!

Danita Art

2010-07-06T06:02:00.001-05:00

My Danita art arrived! I'm so excited! I haven't ordered anything from her since her sheepdog art (she doesn't do it anymore *boo-hoo*) I managed to find a couple...this one is titled Happy Old English sheepdog.

Danita sheepies

I just love how the emotions of her girls show through her art and her use of color is enviable!

shop.danitaart.com

Now I am on the lookout for the perfect picture frames.

Canine Epilipsy

2010-07-06T05:42:00.000-05:00

My poor Goo, it seems his seizures are becoming more frequent again. I hate seeing him like that. I have upped his phenobarbital again, just last week, but he had a seizure again last night. I will wait again to see when the next one is before I up the meds again.
I think I really try to figure out triggers, and maybe electrical storms make him more likely to have one. I might be reaching. He definitely has to remain calm, because stress is one of those triggers.
I will remain positive that this is not the beginning of...well...I don't want to talk about that. I will just give him extra love and hope Murph doesn't get too jealous.

Need a webcam

2010-07-05T05:46:00.001-05:00

http://laphotocabine.com/

this looks like super fun! but you need a web cam, I don't have one, but need one especially if i ever plan on skyping (is that a word? hee hee).

Crocheting sort of?

2010-06-25T06:13:00.002-05:00

what a mess. my hands were cramping from this foreign way I had to hold the yarn. the stitches are uneven. the yarn is tangled. the book does not explain what a turning stitch really is and it keeps saying to turn my work! what does it all mean? all I want in life is to make a granny square and/or pretty flower like all my fellow crafty friends. why does this elude me? how will I ever make RVA Summer Camp's cute little rug if I can't accomplish crochet?

it's easy! they say...do you knit? well it's easier than knitting...they say...they being those crocheters...I want to be one so bad!

super cute hangers!

2010-06-24T06:27:00.003-05:00

http://angiemayhandmade.blogspot.com/2010/06/cute-custom-coat-hangers.html?showComment=1277378839070_AIe9_BEG6ibFZqptHDv95jh1qZXuftt8G4iVS0e-1auXxNPkX0uINPp3Fv7iH9cW-PhYULTjdxNbwcMNa8AB9XRHC0tgs_HCzGz8og9WkukQfSqUoeNIC6Mhhcb39eZuFVCaYD-zYLc2IsjN3mMSNuDtb_8o6n4vUS6UgWoieBeZMW--cJBIFh8AKKOSSxXBsOEwKdb67ojaGSbpG9EFxYdv_aduSfPxmoR-b-H4VlVB_IpDzzW0INw#c462650330271272413
Angie made the cutest hangers.

I was just thinking of this hanger project my grandma and I used to do in the '70's (yup, that is not a typo...yikes) we used three strands of this polyester type wool, I have not seen this stuff forever, and kind of braided it on to the hanger. I spent a lot of time doing this to every hanger I could find in the house!

http://www.allfreecrafts.com/recycling-crafts/braided-hanger.shtml

This project is exactly what we used to do, but uses old plastic bags instead...AWESOME!!

Mosquitoes are ruining my life (or less dramatic ruined my evening)

2010-06-24T05:26:00.002-05:00

We tried to finish building the deck last night, me and G, but the mosquitoes were so bad we couldn't continue!

Here is Murph-Murph looking longingly from the existing deck to where the new extension will some day be!

The whole reason to build the extension was to have a place for the gazebo we were given for free (<~not including the $ to build the new deck, so pretty much NOT free AT ALL). It is too big to fit on our existing deck.

I personally believe that in order to have any enjoyment of Manitoba summers you must have some sort of screened in room. That way you still feel like you are sort of outside but the mosquitoes can't get you...unless someone leaves the door open too long.

Strong childhood memory: I'm at the lake, sitting in the porch and hearing over and over, "SHUT THE DOOR, YOU ARE LETTING THE MOSQUITOES IN!!!!" LOL

I guess G and I will try again...hoping it doesn't rain...which has been making it super impossible to build the deck AND the rain keeps growing mosquitoes.

I just want to sit and have a glass of wine in our gazebo, maybe even do some art or RVA Summer Camp projects in there. That's all I ask...

2010-06-23T05:17:00.002-05:00

Holy!!! This book is crazy awesome.
I am vegetarian mostly, but do still eat some fish and seafood, eggs, milk, cheese. But after reading this book, I'm pretty sure my only option is to become vegan. The chapter where they have quotes and stories from slaughterhouse workers is enough to give me nightmares for eternity. I won't even repeat them because I feel everyone should choose on their own to read about such horrors.

I am sitting here with my organic herbal tea this morning (instead of coffee...yikes) thinking I really want to make these changes. I am worried to read more on the subject of factory produced meat and poultry mostly because I'm not sure how you couldn't become all preachy! I really know there is a reason I have kept myself uneducated on this topic, especially when I was eating meat still.

Anyway, the book was good in the sense that it just pretty much told me I'm a fat pig that needs to use my head, think about what I put in my body and get off my fat ass and exercise. Sounds pretty logical to me!

So today I am telling myself I can do this, I do NOT need refined sugar to sweeten myself, I DON'T! lol This tea is way better than coffee...YES IT IS! I can already feel the weight melting from my thighs.

Prompt 2

2010-06-20T07:55:00.002-05:00

Here is Prompt #2 of the 30 day Journal challenge. I'm a bit behind. If only the sheepdogs walked behind me so obediently, but this is a dreamy journal and I can draw what I want! LOL

DIY Thursday: Recycled T-shirt Necklace

2010-06-18T18:45:00.000-05:00

DIY Thursday: Recycled T-shirt Necklace

I have been eying these on etsy and in certain stores...yay I'm going to make my own with some of the t-shirts I have grown out of since not smoking. I'm not giving up on the fact that I'll never fit into them again I'm just saying I will want to buy new ones when I reach that goal, so until then I can hide some rolls with this gorgeous scarf! LMAO

Day 1 - 30 day Journal Challange

2010-06-16T05:18:00.002-05:00

Day 1 prompt for the 30 Day Journal Challange.

Need more Bling!

2010-06-16T05:03:00.003-05:00

Here is my first project for RVA Summer Camp!!

I feel like I want to add more to it...ribbon, buttons, sparkle...lol. I wonder why I have such a hard time with simplicity? I want my little journal to be done...but I cannot stop thinking of things to add to it. Good grief.
I ran out of tape runner glue half way thru my project so I switched to ModgePodge...my fabric is a little lumpy. Maybe some ribbon will squish the bubbles out! lol

Anyway...Ta-Da...a journal!
Today some embroidery! YAY!!!

super cute pots!

2010-06-15T05:49:00.002-05:00

http://livingwithlindsay.com/2010/06/teach-me-tuesday-perfectly-proportioned-polka-dots.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+LivingWithLindsay+%28Living+with+Lindsay%29

Oh, oh I just love these pots!!! How great and gorgeous and my mind is flying...I wonder if anyone else in this house hold will agree that we have to turn all our existing pots into these gorgeous polka dot cuties! I'll just do it and see if anyone notices...;) Pink and green???? YES

want want!

2010-06-13T20:49:00.001-05:00

http://www.purlbee.com/the-purl-bee/2010/6/13/whits-knits-woven-flower-necklace.html

Oh, this might be the answer to my non-crochet ways!! AWESOME PRETTY!!

2010-06-13T10:23:00.001-05:00

http://www.thirtyhandmadedays.com/2010/06/zippy-pouch-from-polkadot-chair.html

This is so cute! Using a shower curtain...such an awesome idea.

Niverville Fair 2010

2010-06-13T07:34:00.003-05:00

Niverville Fair is over for another year...whew! I find it so tiring with all the kids...hats off to all with children. They all had fun but it wasn't for as long as I would have liked due to some kids needed a nap, etc. (this is me and our friend Jack)

We met up with our only other childless couple friends and went to the concert at the fair. Road Hammers is the band and I'm not really a big Country fan, but they were pretty good. My friend Stef LOVES them, so that was super entertaining. We were right up front and she kept reaching on stage trying to touch the singers boots and telling him to take his shirt off...like I said...entertaining! LOL Did I mention we drank some wine before the concert? I think we should consider ourselves lucky she didn't take of HER shirt! hee hee

G and I managed to give one of the town counsellors a hard time at the concert about how our town needs to be more business friendly, blah, blah, on and on. I think at the end of the chat he might of suggested we run for office...a polite way to tell us to shut up I think! LOL

I have a wee headache from the festivities but all and all had a great time this year.

Crochet lessons anyone?

2010-06-12T07:14:00.003-05:00

http://dottieangel.blogspot.com/2010/06/ordinarily-extraordinary-blanket-how-to.html

I seriously need to learn how to crochet! I see blankets like this and I just HAVE to make...except for the fact that I don't crochet. How is it that I learned how to knit, embroider, sew, crosstitch, etc but didn't ever learn to crochet? My grandma brown taught me all the above but was unable to teach me to use that pesky hook because she is ambidextrous...and she crochets as a lefty and we could never translate it to right handedness for me...perhaps we should have used a mirror??? I think I will suggest that next time I see grandma, it could work right??

Or else I will be doomed to a life of crochet envy...don't even get me started on the cute crochet flowers I see everywhere!!! AHHHHHHH

I'm going to research a crochet class and stop my complaining!

iphone Love

2010-06-11T22:06:00.003-05:00

I finally got my iPhone. I'm super excited. The camera app is awesome and I am worried this will be a new addiction. I apologise in advance for all the 1970's esque pictures of the sheepies and kitties that are about to come! hee hee

2010-06-11T08:05:00.001-05:00

I'm looking to get the sheepies another toy...they had one of these tongues but it now looks like swiss cheese! And the turtles are so awesome! It looks like they know they are coming to a sheepies house though. The little ones do look a little worried but the big guy will take care of it. LOL

Sock Monkies

2010-06-06T06:28:00.001-05:00

http://good.net.nz/magazine/4/features/monkey-business

OHHHHHH I love sock monkies! I have wanted to make some for a long time and this is an awesome how-to! YIPPPPPEEEE

It's working!

2010-06-04T06:17:00.003-05:00

Every Friday I have to weigh in and take my measurements...I was pretty nervous this morning to do so. I have been following the diet to the calorie and doing my workouts and starting to feel pretty good BUT I was worried to actually step on the scale. It has happened before that I am feeling good, gained some confidence and the BLAM gone, all because I stepped on the scale and found out I haven't lost any weight or gained a pound.

So...I did it anyway! And I lost 6lbs!!!! YIPPPPPEEEEE!!! and 2 inches off my waist and a quarter inch off my hips! CRAZY AWESOME!!!

I feel this is exactly the news I needed to carry on...I might even enjoy my workout this morning...OK that is getting a little crazy!!!! Does anyone actually like working out???

Supply list!

2010-06-02T06:02:00.003-05:00

So super excited! Got my supply list for RVA Summer Camp !!!http://abeautifulmess.typepad.com/my_weblog/2010/05/summer-camp-registration-rva-update.html

I cannot stop thinking of all the cute projects and how some of them would be so super cute for Summer Solstice party!! Especially the pup tent! I think the kids (and sheepies) would get a kick out of it! Ok, I would like the tent too! It reminds me of backyard summer sleepovers when I was little with my girlfriends! AHHHHH memories!

2010-06-02T05:50:00.002-05:00

Jillian Michaels is going to kick my ass!! Well, she kind of has already as I did her first circuit training workout yesterday and I have no idea how I'm going to get down stairs today! Which is a wee problem considering my office is up 3 flights of stairs with no elevator option.

Holy crap, I think I just heard her in my head laughing, saying "good, you should never take the elevator, fatty!!"

OK the low cal diet may be making me a wee bit nuts...it's only day 3!

Will I survive? Will I end up with Jillian Michaels body? Doubtful. But I'm going to try my best to at least lose the 35Lbs I gained when I quit smoking.

Well at least she couldn't yell at me for being a smoker! LMAO

http://www.jillianmichaels.com/ is where I'm at...wish me luck.

What's in the jar???

2010-05-30T07:27:00.003-05:00

http://getcraftee.com/diy/warning-cupcakes-ahead/

Holy Cupcake!!! This is the best idea EVER!!! I could eat these driving the car, walking the dogs, reading in bed...the possibilities are endless! Oh, I guess I could make them for other people too...LOL!

Sex in the City 2

2010-05-29T06:22:00.003-05:00

Wow, I was really disappointed. I loved all the outfits and luxury but I cannot get over the fit Samantha has in a market. All I could think of was how horribly disrespectful to be in another country and blatantly disregard their laws and customs. This scene has clouded all the others and really made me dislike the movie. *sigh*

Thunder

2010-05-28T06:32:00.003-05:00

Image from flicker

We are having a crasher boomer...poor Murph-Murph! He hates thunder.

And Goo had a seizure in the night...this morning is starting off AWESOME! lol I guess we all will miss our morning walk before I go to work...boooooo!

I am so excited that I'm all registered for Summer camp!

It's going to be super awesome!

I'm going to Sex in the City 2 tonight with some girls. I'm pretty pumped to see all the clothes...the setting seems dreamy...all flowy, and hot! lol

so cute

2010-05-27T06:07:00.002-05:00

http://www.etsy.com/listing/47560001/an-apple-a-day

I love, love this mouse pad. I think it would inspire me to clean my desk...maybe.

I am definately lacking inspiration and motivation to create my perfect crafty/art space. I think that it has become so cluttered and I have become over-whelmed. This happens a lot with me. I really want to forge through this and just make it happen. I always have ideas and motivation in the morning, then by the time I get home from work...it is all lost.

The colors on the mouse pad are EXACTLY what I want for my room. I'm going to order it right now and hope it kicks me in the ass to get going!

Super cute!

2010-05-26T06:23:00.003-05:00

http://livingwithlindsay.com/2010/05/teach-me-tuesday-handmade-barrettes.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+LivingWithLindsay+%28Living+with+Lindsay%29

This DIY is for little girls...hmmmm I think that they would look AWESOME in my 40 year old hair! Besides, I love ribbon and I have a whack of it and now I know what to do with it!

I want to go to camp!

2010-05-26T05:58:00.003-05:00

http://racheldenbow.blogspot.com/2010/05/rva-summer-camp-registration.html

I really think this would be tonnes of fun! I think I would like to treat myself to this camp but I feel like I will need to get my play space in order and I really need a laptop! I would love to be able to blog, read blogs and create anywhere I want! There are some web books for $239 at Future shop...I wonder if that is all I really need?

Anyways, I'm going to seriously consider taking this. It makes me laugh because a few years ago a friend (who doesn't talk to me anymore...:( ) and I wanted so badly to bring back earning badges, like in brownies. This reminds me of the fun we used to have in dreaming together. Perhaps I could meet some girls that like the same things I do, even if they live far away. I do not seem to have much luck with meeting new, like-minded ladies in person, so this might be awesome for me!

I wish my old friend was talking to me...she would have LOVED this class, and I would have loved taking it with her...*sigh*.

2010-05-24T06:35:00.002-05:00

http://www.lisaleonardonline.com/inspired-designs/beautiful-necklace.htmlhttp://

This is BEAUTIFUL. It is interesting that I imagine everyone, all the women in my life wearing this, except me. Why is it I find such beauty in everyone else EXCEPT me? It is frustrating. I'm sure that no one else looks at me and judges like I do to myself. I would like to someday get to the point where I could get this for myself and wear it proudly!

It would help if I hadn't gone out on Saturday night and drank too much! I am still feeling the effects of the alcohol and the over-eating this morning...it's Monday! I am afraid to get on the scale for my WII fitness and see exactly what damage has been done.

Well...I will soldier on...

2010-05-18T06:26:00.002-05:00

http://www.designspongeonline.com/2010/05/sneak-peek-kirsten-voortman.html

This entire house is DREAMY!!! I wonder if I will be able to get G to agree to any of this? I especially LOVE the pink ladder on her patio...*sigh*...

Get Sewing!

2010-05-14T06:12:00.002-05:00

http://howaboutorangeblogspot.com/2010/05/12-free-bag-and-purse-tutorials.html

Time to GET SEWING!!!

2010-05-14T05:57:00.000-05:00

http://www.flickr.com/photos/15683948@N00/1380120449/in/set-72157602003927800/

2010-05-13T06:08:00.001-05:00

http://www.etsy.com/storque/how-to/how-tuesday-rose-petal-tee-from-applique-your-way-5925/

So Pretty!

2010-05-12T05:30:00.001-05:00

http://experienceparisienne.com/blog/ooh-la-la-how-to-get-a-perfectly-messy-bun/

Ooh La La! How To Get that Perfectly Messy Bun

2010-05-12T05:27:00.001-05:00

Ooh La La! How To Get that Perfectly Messy Bun

Posted using ShareThis

How to Make a Turban-Style Headband

2010-05-11T05:42:00.001-05:00

How to Make a Turban-Style Headband

This is AWESOME. I imagine it will take care of any bad hair days! I think I will use one of the million too small t-shirts I have around!

2010-05-08T08:37:00.001-05:00

http://howaboutorange.blogspot.com/2009/06/recycled-magazine-coasters.html

What a super fun idea...and a GREAT way to do something about the piles of magazines I have going on!

2010-05-08T06:58:00.002-05:00

http://www.purlbee.com/the-twenty-minute-tote/

I MUST make these!!! I have some awesome fabric waiting for an awesome project! I will go on the hunt for the handles today!

2010-05-08T05:08:00.003-05:00

It's been so frustrating lately. I've gained so much weight. I can barely stand looking at myself in the mirror, I don't recognise myself. It's like I see myself inside and surrounded by a body that isn't mine! I have been exercising every morning. I have changed my diet, become a vegetarian (fish and seafood still as well) but I still keep putting on the pounds, 1 or 2 pounds a week!!! Is this all because I quit smoking? I just find that hard to believe. It's been 6 months without a cigarette, I don't even really miss smoking, except if I think it will make me lose weight, then I wonder why I stopped. Then I remember the chronic coughing, the alienation I felt being a smoker, the horrible smell, the yellow fingers...ETC. I could go on and on but I think I've made the point.

So, I will keep up my relationship with my mat. And force a smile in the morning and keep at it. I have to gain strength in both body and mind. I want to feel beautiful again.

Vegetarian meal plan

2010-04-29T05:59:00.000-05:00

Vegetarian meal plan

Keith and Renée

2010-04-23T16:08:00.000-05:00

Keith and Renée

2010-04-10T07:57:00.000-05:00

I NEED this wallpaper!!! How cool is that?

This is what I need!

2010-04-10T07:45:00.004-05:00

This is exactly what I need to do for MY bathroom!!! Yeah...Thanks Rachel!http://racheldenbow.blogspot.com/2010/04/itty-bitty-bathroom-solution_09.html

awesome embroidery!

2010-04-02T05:46:00.003-05:00

http://www.flickr.com/photos/patapri/
SO COOL!!! All made with french knots!!! I want to try! I just love this look.

Sock bunnies

2010-04-02T05:09:00.004-05:00

I made these cuties last night! I got the inspiration from http://myhouseiscuterthanyours.blogspot.com We named them too, from left to right, Rocky, Leroy, Telulah, Petunia. They were so easy to make and I will whip up some more today to give to all the kids at Easter dinner. How cute will a basket of these guys be???

I got the socks from the dollar store as I was reluctant to upcycle old socks for kids...maybe I will experiment for myself. It sure would great to do something with that pile of single socks expecting to find their match, that lives on my dresser! hee hee

wish

2010-03-27T06:54:00.004-05:00

I've been dreaming. I have been lurking on other's awesome blogs, becoming overwhelmed, paralyzed and end up not putting anything on my own! No more. I will put what I love and not stress that someone will see this and think I suck!!!

I LOVE these poodles...I don't care who knows it! I'm not sure why, but I do! I will learn to add pictures better than what I've done here...someday!

Today I will start documenting my life. I will post pictures and words. This will make me happy!

Hope I find a pink poodle today.

2009-04-04T07:27:00.002-05:00

This weeks assignment for enCouraging bliss from Christine http://www.blisschick.net/ is Return to Your Garden of Eden.

It is warm, a little humid, NO mosquitoes or wind.

Starting from my toes (that are painted perfectly) nestled in a pair of favorite "flips" (pink sparkles of course) attached to my slightly tanned legs, that are are hidden, unless I'm standing behind the sun. In which case you would see their silhouette under my light cotton, white, "flowy" skirt. I am wearing a matching tank top and my hair is pulled back in a loose bun on top of my head. All I feel on my face is the sun and a smile. I feel beautiful.

It is morning. I walk on my path, collecting the dew from the grass. My sheepdogs and pussycats meander behind me, looking for a place to nap. There are tall trees along my path that whisper wisdom to me. I pet their bark in thanks. I feel their energy. Happy.

I come to my place. A comfy green wicker chair with colorful cotton cushions to sink into. It sits behind a large wood table that is piled high with any supply needed. This is where I create. This is where I dream. I don't mind if family or friends visit me here. We dream and create together, in the sunshine, listening to the trees. Bliss.

Watercolour Class

2009-04-03T08:03:00.002-05:00

Lovely. That's how I would describe my day yesterday.
My Dad and my Grandma (who I would like to mention is 93) talked me into taking a watercolour class with them. As much as I relish the time spent with the two of them, there were a few hurdles to overcome. Firstly, I am terrified of any art class since my first attempt (she told me my painting was WRONG, and I never returned). Second, any art class that involves "real" artistic talent freaks me out. Especially since my grandma is an incredible oil painter and my dad is an amazing charcoal sketcher, then there is me, never one for the landscape realism type art, I don't even consider myself an artist of any kind! And lastly, watercolour. Seriously, all the cards were stacked against me.
But I enjoyed myself! The artist putting on the class Sylvia Russell, a local artist (sing Manitoba praises) and a real gentle soul. I instantly was comfortable with her. She never once stood behind me and "instructed". I loved this. I was free to play, I especially like to "splatter", and just have fun. I was there to spend time creating with my family. Three generations, as my dad announced proudly to the full class, creating together. I found it so interesting how different our techniques were (or lack of in my case) but how all our work turned out beautifully.
My theory is it's because it all came from love. Love of time spent together. I forget how old my grandma is. She is still so spry, lives on her own, walks everywhere and is very involved with her community church. Keeping busy, as she says is the most important thing at her age. I take yesterday afternoon as a gift. I also will relish in the lesson. I will make more time for afternoons like this as life is short, well not in grandma's case, but I want to know when the time comes for her that I have no regrets in lost time. This is why I moved back home. To spend time with my family and create beautiful memories together. I wish you beautiful memories today.

Why do I suck so bad at housekeeping?

2009-03-28T07:46:00.002-05:00

http://www.flickr.com/photos/superjunk/

I have no idea why I am the worst housekeeper in the world. I have no idea why I do not have a care about the dust bunnies rolling by me or that my bathroom is messy with stuff everywhere. I am so envious of those people that have neat and tidy houses! The only time my house is "sort" of like that is when we know people are coming over...especially my parents. But even for those times I half-ass do it. It is an illusion. You know, throwing "stuff" in closets, spare bedrooms, where ever I KNOW they won't go! I so desperately want to care. I am so ready to change!
I keep thinking how lovely it would be to have a neat and tidy and clean house. I have the image in my head, this is why I really think I can do it! But then the overwhelming feeling of not knowing where to start kicks in. I get frustrated. Discouraged. And my house remains the same!
Why, does it seem, I am the only one with all this clutter? Am I going to be one of those women in their 70's that have stacks of newspapers and 14 cats? I fear this may happen! At least my wonderful husband is excellent at organization. He organizes my art area. It makes me crazy! Is this a condition I should speak to my doctor about? Perhaps someone could shed some light on why I have to have every single thing I own out on display for the world to see. Why is it so hard to put the toothpaste IN the drawer? Why do I have to keep it on the counter? Do I have a fear of drawers and cupboards? Am I afraid if it is put away I won't find it ever again? Like socks in the dryer?
What has sparked this craziness this morning...my dad is coming over for coffee at 10AM!
What am I doing? Writing this INSTEAD of pushing the vacuum around or placing the stuff in cupboards and drawers.
Wow, I think I am crazy! I wonder if all my friends are doing Saturday morning cleaning as I write this? If so...any tips or encouragement would be helpful!
Here I go...I'm going to do my best to make some sparkles!

Three overplayed songs I love anyway

2009-03-26T20:14:00.001-05:00

Fergielicious by Fergie

I feel like I have a whole Broadway musical chorigraphed. I enjoy sharing MY interpretation to this song with friends that have had a couple of cocktails.

Roxanne by The Police

I cannot help pretending I am holding a microphone and BELTING out this song with my boyfriend Sting!

Shutup by The Black Eyed Peas

Life as a 6 year old Coco.

2009-03-26T09:17:00.002-05:00

What was life like when I was 6 years old?

Waking up early (I've always been an early riser) wearing my favorite baby doll pajama's, I would go outside (still in my pj's) and sit under my best friends bedroom window until she would wake up (she was a late sleeper) or until my mom called me for breakfast. Amazing how trusting parents were back then? A six year old would probably not be allowed to roam their neighborhoods a) in their pj's, b) by themselves.

My best friend and I would play with barbies for hours. Making up their little barbie lives as we went, we even sometimes would discuss a plot ahead of time and make-believe our way to the intended outcome. Such wonderful imaginations!

I remember loving dance class. I can still remember the steps for the final recital; polka-step, polka-step, step..toe, step..toe....so funny! I also remember screaming my head off come recital night because they wanted to draw freckles on my face, I felt I had enough already. So I was the only one without the "painted" on kind for the dance.

I remember sitting on my Great-Grandfather's lap (I lovingly called him Bumpa...even when I was 16) and we would read together for hours. He would test my spelling. He thought I was the smartest little girl in the whole world. And I was, because Bumpa said so..."for the love of Pete", one of his famous sayings. If I was so smart, I would have figured out by now who "Pete" was.

I loved exploring my Bumpa's house. Old pictures, boxes of dusty old fashioned clothes, making house in the big, under-the-stairs closet, swinging on the wood swing tied to the enormous Crab Apple tree in the back yard.

I was always a performer. Singing; always with a make shift microphone, and usually a blanket on my head? I think Cher was pretty popular, perhaps I wanted that hair? I also would make-up elaborate plays, that I would teach my cousins for hours and then put on the show for the family after dinner. I remember being too excited to eat, then usually mad, because my cousins and brother didn't do the play right!

The picture above, shows the general idea of my favorite outfit when I was 6. It was a green Winnie the Pooh, jumper dress. It had big pockets and I would have worn it everyday if my mom had allowed it. My best friend had the EXACT same one...in red. Oh, how I loved that dress! Then tragedy came. My mom washed it and discovered she could not get out a mystery sticky substance that had welded the polyester pocket shut and stained the front of the dress. I had put my half chewed gum in my pocket to be enjoyed at a later time and I guess I forgot about it. I was devastated. My mom was furious.

My mother will tell you I was always "slobby". The toes on my shoes were always scuffed. I always was half tucked in and wrinkled (this seems like a wee fib considering the popularity of polyester back then) dirt on some part of me and she claims that no matter how tight she tied my pig tails, they would be lopsided and messy by the time I got home from anywhere. Truthfully, I think this is still true today. I have never been one of those polished, put together women. I think that is what makes me...ME. Not sure it's the exact legacy I would like to have, but it is what it is!

I need to tap more into that 6 year old child. She was so self confident, a little bossy, just so sure of herself. I am none of those things now. Interesting.

Snow? Just what we need!

2009-03-25T16:02:00.002-05:00

What a difference a day makes! We are in the middle of a snow storm. Our "lake" in the front yard has frozen over and the roads look like they have been polished to a perfect ice skating rink! I just got word that Ottawa is 11 degrees C today. Why did we move back home? I'm starting to go stir crazy, I've been house bound for 2 days and I cannot even muster up some creative thoughts for art today. I think the gray weather is starting to suck me in! HELP! I hope I wake up tomorrow and this is all a dream/nightmare. But I fear it is not! So I will try to make the most of it. Maybe I will have a nice hot bath, put on my favorite pj's, and create a place where it IS spring.
Yup...good idea.

Spring + Manitoba = Flood

2009-03-24T13:40:00.003-05:00

This is the view from our front window. Normally you wouldn't have to canoe to the park! They are saying that this flooding will be comparable to the 1997 "Flood of the Century" which was the last spring that Grant and I were living here! So it would seem that the Red River just waits until the Anderson's are in the vicinity, then SPLOOOSH! I had forgotten about the constant speculation of the size of the crest by the media. I do believe that Manitoban's and North Dakotan's do have the right to get nervous, we don't have a great track record in the flood department.

I think we will be just fine in Niverville, but it looks like I won't be able to get to work during the peak. Wow, that "sucks"! hee hee

I just hope that all the farm animals will be safe. I found that most difficult to handle last flood!

I will send all positive energy and it should be alright for all! Here's to not being able to get to work and having all days to draw and paint and play with the furkids!

An Environmental Hurdle

2009-03-14T14:13:00.004-05:00

It's a beautiful Sunday afternoon. The sun is shining. The birds are singing. Spring is finally here!
All her winter planning to become more environmentally conscious is about to be put to action!
She gets her bicycle. It was purchased from a yard sale (of course! No new, manufactured items for Coco!). This bike has been cleaned (with vinegar) and repainted (with low-toxin paint) a flashy red! Not everything "green" has to be green! She thought, that was just showing off! A basket, that once held geraniums (a gift from a friend) was tied to the handle bars. It will NOW hold her beloved pussycat, who, Coco is positive, will love to ride on the bicycle too! She puts on her helmet (made from recycled plastic) and her goggles, which she found in the bottom of her closet. These were from the days she dreamed of being a downhill skier, not a realistic dream considering her home was on the prairies and practicing was difficult given the terrain.
She is all set! She grabs Lucy-cat and places her in the basket and starts to peddle through her town. She smiles and waves at all the town folk, who are coming out of their church service on the glorious Sunday afternoon.
She peddles...and peddles...and peddles some more. While she is peddling she starts thinking. How great a feeling this is to be kind to the environment. The horses in their pastures seem to smile and thank her for being so awesome as she peddles by them. The birds in the trees are singing, just to her for being so awesome. She is so proud of herself.
Coco thinks she will make it to work for Monday morning on time. She starts to ponder that perhaps living in the country and working elsewhere is a difficult hurdle on her path to environmental awesomeness.
Perhaps a career change is just what the environment ordered.

Winter Go Away!

2009-03-11T15:45:00.003-05:00

I was e-mailed this today...how appropriate to how I'm feeling. It is -40C today...I must remind myself that this is March, not January! I made it to work only to get a migraine about an hour in. I feel like I'm going crazy! I really need to figure out why I am getting so many headaches, then fix it! Then I look at the art challenge this week and it's "SMILE"...good grief, you have got to be kidding! So I've taken some meds to get rid of my ache and I hear it is supposed to go up to +5C by the weekend, so maybe...just maybe I can try to create something for "smile"!
I started a little piece for my grandma for St Patrick's Day. I hope it turns out!
I also have been struggling with how to affix my ribbon to my wooden birds for my Three Little Birds...so it's not finished yet. I went to use my glue gun, only to discover that my glue sticks are too big for my gun! Wow, not much has gone super great so far this week!
I will survive. I will get better. It will warm up.
It always does!

My Blue & Yellow creation!

2009-03-05T16:49:00.004-06:00

Well...here it is...

My blue and yellow combo!

The picture doesn't show how the entire page is yellow and the happy, little blue birds are a wee fuzzy...I have no idea how other people get there pictures so clear??? Maybe it is time to invest in a scanner?

Anyway, I decided to do it in my art journal. I have anxiety about committing to a large art piece, on canvas or board. It's like the pressure is so entirely overwhelming for it to be PERFECT that in most cases I become completely blocked and cannot even start! When I "play" in my art journal, I feel more free.

Does this make sense? I sometimes do not make sense!

Well, I enjoyed the creativity prompt a lot! Can hardly wait until next Tuesday to find out what the next one is!!! http://artygirlzchallengeblog.blogspot.com/

I am working on a small piece, inspired by a song, by Corrine Bailey Rae.

ahem...Coco starts to sing...

"Three little birds sat on my window, and they told me I don't need to worry."

I just love that song, it helped me through a tough choice that had to be made a while back, over a year ago already...how time flies...no pun intended.

Anyway, I will post my piece as soon as it is ready...which might be a while, since it isn't in my art journal, which means the whole struggle with perfection. And for crying out loud, how does anyone KNOW when a piece is FINISHED??? Someday I want to just know when a piece of my art is done. Completed. Nothing else could possibly make it any better. This is a huge goal!

I can do it...I can do it!

Time to get going!

2009-03-04T16:36:00.002-06:00

Holy Cow...I just really need spring to come already!

I have been feeling really tired and the migranes are coming more frequently, I still am wondering if this is due to my work environment, but I can not change that...right now. It's my "fake job" and someday my real job will present itself!

I have really tried to motivate myself to:

a) Eat more healthfully

b) Excersise (walk the poor sheepies and Yoga)

Is this what every person has a goals?

I just do NOT want to go back to Ottawa for Kimmy's wedding in July looking all pale and unhealthy and chubby! I want my husband to look at me and say "That is MY sexy wife!" and most of all, I (with a capital and bold I) want to feel sexy, healthy and glowing!

I have decided that trying to live creatively HAS to include being healthy and feeling GREAT! I just feel I will accomplish more this way!

ps. Someday I WILL address the smoking...not today...baby steps!

I am going to work on my Arty Girlz Challange now and will post when done!

This week it is a blue and yellow colour combo....hmmmmm what will it be? SUPER FUN!!!

Ahhhhh Life....

2008-11-12T19:48:00.005-06:00

I just talked to my friend Lele...it was so good to hear her voice! It's been hard for the past 6 months being away from my Ottawa Nunas! I have never met a better group of girls in my whole life, and we all be friends forever. Since I've moved home, I haven't even tried to make or rekindle any friendships, no other girls "get" me! I am pretty content with that though. I do miss them a lot; thank-goddess for internet, it would be way more painful otherwise. I am going back for "Nuna Christmas" in a few weeks...and I can hardly wait! Kiki is picking me up from the airport and it will begin! I have to remember to treasure that weekend...every minute...the joy these women bring me is indescribable. Maybe living away makes these moments that more treasured? Anyway, it is going to be so super fun...I cannot even stand how excited I'm getting!

I wish Shanny was coming though and Kimmy...but I cannot have EVERYTHING! Hopefully we will all be together this summer...wish...hope...dream!

I am trying hard to keep my anxiety in check though. Since coming out of my depression I have gained some weight and am not feeling as gorgeous as I'd like...there goes my inner voice again...I am so critical of myself...and there is going to be a party at Lele's with non-Nunas, and that's when my anxiety starts to sky rocket. Why do I worry so much about what others think of me? It drives me nuts, especially since these are all really good people who probably are not saying how I've gained weight but are really genuinely happy to see me. I am insane. Of course after saying all this, I could actually DO something about it, instead of just hoping I'll wake up one day back in the body I had when I was 21. I guess that would be my brutal procrastination problem rearing it's ugly head again! Goddess...is anyone else this crazy?

Well, I must keep my positivity going...I so much enjoy this feeling...I must savor it. I never want to go back to that black, lonely place I was last year...YUCK!

"I am going to go make so art with love for my Lele now!" coco says fighting the urge to keep staring at her computer instead. A psychic told me recently that I have to embrace my inner child. I am translating this to being able to PLAY again. I am not going to worry that a almost 39 year old shouldn't be wearing flannel pj's with Scottie dogs on them, at 8PM on a Wednesday thinking about drawing and colors and puppies and bff's! Hee hee I am also not going to worry that someone could read this and judge me! SO THERE!

Here I gooooo.....!

It's Time!

2008-11-10T17:06:00.002-06:00

That's it...I really have to stop over-analysing EVERYTHING and just start....ANYTHING! I have the worst habit of wanting to do everything and starting nothing! It really is driving me crazy! Why am I like this? I am so completly jealous of "go-getters"! You know people who play guitar, paint, jog everyday, go to yoga class, have beautifully groomed animals and always look so put together! How the rippn' hell do people do it?

So today, I'm just going to make myself do something...anything. Perhaps start one of the many crosstitch patterns I have collected for up coming Yule. Or actually start knitting those cute slippers I keep meaning to get to. Or finally start the art class on line that I'm dying to take. But really...I'm again just typing about all this and doing it again...procrastination!

I really miss my friend Keelsta! We could procastinate together like no one else, but it was fun and I would make her laugh (she has the best laugh in the whole world!) But I moved away and am in a different province now, and though I thought the distance wouldn't make a difference, it seems to have. I wonder what she is doing now? Maybe procrastinating just like me?

Well, I've made myself a big pot of coffee, just got home from work, which I really find so completely unfullfilling and horrible, but we all need to bring home a paycheque I guess. I spend the day dreaming about all the things I'd rather be doing, or what I will do when I get home, then by the time I get here...I'm too tired to do anything! HORRIBLE. I need help! Seriously, I need the go-getters to chime in and tell me EXACTLY how they do it! Step-by-step!

I am really going to sign up for this art class...right now...I'm going to do it! Just watch me! I will tell you all about it later!