The (other) Kennedy Compound

The Knuckleheads This Morning

2012-01-19T10:12:00.000-08:00

Divers #5 and #6

2012-01-15T07:16:00.000-08:00

I will be the first to admit that this will all stop being fun if anyone gets hurt. That's something I do not want to happen or see. I was nervous yesterday when #5 tried to drive their way out of the ditch. The girl was standing on the far side of the vehicle as it was precariously tipped and looking like it could roll over at any time. I wanted to shout out there "be smart!" but didn't.

Ditch Diver #5

Diver #5 drove their way along the ditch and got out. The man and woman were fighting about who could/should drive it out, clearly SHE was doing it wrong (eye roll).... I was almost positive that it was going to roll over, but it didn't. I've seen a van roll over then bounce back straight. Luckily no one was hurt in that dive (last year, I think).

Ditch Diver #6 - time unknown.

High fives and hugs!

2012 STATS
Diver #1 - unknown vehicle, male driver, bald tires
Diver #2 - white pick up truck, male driver, 360 ballet move, 3:40pm 1/13
Diver #3 - Blue pickup truck, male driver in camo, going too fast around corner, 1/13 4:40 pm
Diver #4 - Beige sedan, male driver, barely over the edge, 1/13 5:05 pm
Diver #5 - Silver SUV, female driver, Slid off the side of the road. Argument with a guy passenger about who can drive it back on the road. 1/14 4:05pm
Diver #6 - Black SUV, male driver, cause unknown. 1/14, time unknown. Four men popped it out.

Yesterday I switched lenses on my SLR and now have my handy dandy mega zoom on stand by for more detailed pics. Woot!

Divers #3 and #4

2012-01-13T14:10:00.000-08:00

Ditch Diver #3

Ditch Diver #4

Nothing too spectacular about these dives.
All male drivers so far...

Ditch Diving

2012-01-13T12:37:00.000-08:00

OK, the season has officially begun. We had someone dive the other day (#1 of 2012) - sadly I did not snap a photo.


2012 - Diver #2

TODAY, however, just as I got settled down to my computer to work (yes I DO work)...this kind gentleman honored me with the pleasure of watching him do a 360 and then land in the ditch. It was a thing of beauty. Like a ballet, actually. As he came in front of the house, I knew - even before he rounded the corner - that he was going to bite it. I could just tell.

I wish I could capture them on video and then put together a high light reel at the end of the season. Wouldn't that be something?

STATS
2012 Diver #1 - unknown vehicle, male driver, bald tires
2012 Diver #2 - white pick up truck, male driver, 360 ballet move, 3:40pm 1/13

Down Memory Lane - circa 1997?

2012-01-08T11:15:00.000-08:00

Back in the day.

In the blink of an eye

2012-01-02T09:04:00.000-08:00

Xmas supplies turn into Valentine inspiration

NY Day 2012

2012-01-01T18:02:00.000-08:00

Comfort Food. Sunday Supper. NY Day 2012.

Brew ha ha Moments

2011-10-28T09:14:00.000-07:00

A little darker than usual

Peeps on a stick

Mocha Toffee Cupcakes

First Time Caramel Apples

Dessert Bar

I like corners.

Watermelon Lemonade Pop

2011-08-08T11:05:00.000-07:00

Take 1 seedless watermelon, cut and blend. Add 1 packet of Crystal Light lemonade and 1/2 cup of water. Mix. Drink as is or with Vodka. For a cool treat pour into Popsicle molds, freeze and enjoy the summery, fruity goodness!

PS: Thanks to my Sister Ann for this awesome idea.

Last week at the compound

2011-06-28T05:27:00.000-07:00

Lots of Project Work

Wonderful Brown Sugar Blueberry Cookies

Always checking things out

Robin with lunch

Sunday dinner - fresh

It's been a while...

2011-06-27T12:24:00.000-07:00

As we lapse into summer, I think I will share images from The (other) Kennedy Compound in all it's glory and crazy shenanigan's.

The Rules.

Spring Bounty

What's Up?

Happy 40th to a Very Special Friend

Details.

Food Adventures

2011-03-28T11:13:00.000-07:00

Thai ingredients, red curry paste + fish sauce = YUM!

Friday night we had the most amazing meal! I love the recipes on Skinnytaste.com. I decided that we are going to try to eat more fish and seafood, and for me to start learning different ways to cook shrimp was the first step. And OMGoodness these Thai Curry Coconut shrimp are sooooo good. The flavors meld perfectly, don't change a thing.

One pan, 2 servings = no left overs!

I made Coconut Lime Rice to put under the shrimp - fabulous match. A new go-to recipe for us.
We also tried Indian-inspired Okra that I was not really all that thrilled about. Kinda slimy.


Will do again, sans the Okra (ehhh.)

Yesterday, in pictures...

2011-03-20T07:40:00.000-07:00


Picnic lunch on the back porch.

Borrowed succulents for a touch of Spring indoors.

Burning the branches and brambles we cleaned up.

Willow - Outside ALL DAY and loving it!

The 21st Birthday Party

2011-03-12T10:33:00.000-08:00

Our Daughter, KC, turned 21 on March 25th. Time flies! It seems like it was only a little while ago that this little girl with a jazillion blond curls came into my life and won a place in my heart.

We had a little shindig for her at a local bar. Nothing fancy, pizza, salad, drinks. Friends and relatives buying her shots (!!??). And this little birthday shrine that I put together for her in honor of her special night.

Butter pecan cupcakes, mini cheesecakes, peeps for color.

My Corner of Spring

2011-03-03T06:41:00.000-08:00

It's March. Spring IS around the corner. I bought myself a bundle of flowers at Whole Foods yesterday and peppered them around the house in little vases. My private reminder.

Beautiful Breakfasts

2011-02-05T16:46:00.000-08:00

Friday Morning Fuel

Work is Good!

2011-02-04T05:34:00.000-08:00

A little present Jane left for me on my work area.

I've been lucky to have scored an awesome project to work on for the past couple of weeks. I am in the best situation possible, a cool project with an awesomely cool person. She's in Cali, I'm in snowy Michigan and the time difference is the biggest blessing for us. I firmly believe this has saved my brain from turning to mush while waiting for some bigger projects to come to fruition.

One Fine Day at the Kennedy Compound

2011-01-31T08:13:00.000-08:00

We had TEN turkey vultures visit the compound for a couple of days. I was a little perplexed as to why they would want to hang around our property when 1) we have a dog that would not stop barking, and 2) we live adjacent to a nature preserve with miles and miles and miles of lovely wooded areas with lots of other (non-barking) critters to hang with or eat.

Illustration: Ktoons.

It's the small things

2011-01-17T09:46:00.000-08:00

Three things to celebrate on this sunny winter Monday.

1) I lost another pound
2) Realized today we did not eat out once last week
3) This awesome yummy "soup" that totally makes me warm and fuzzy

You don't need an official recipe do you? No? Good! Here is how it is made.

Take 4-6 strips of bacon and cut them into pieces. Fry them in a pan (I use my dutch oven) until brown. Remove the bacon, set aside and discard all but about 1T of the bacon grease. Saute 1/2 and onion and some garlic in the pan. Toss in about 2 cups of baby spinach and saute until wilted. Add chicken broth (2-3 cups depending on how brothy you want it), about 2T of ketchup, salt, pepper and red pepper flakes to taste. Stir while this simmers, getting all the good yummy bits off the bottom of the pan. Add in a can of diced tomatoes (the garlic flavored ones work well) and beans (I use 3 kinds, cannellini, dark kidney and light kidney). Let this simmer to perfection.

This is such a great meal to make at the beginning of the week so that you have leftovers for lunch &/or to share. I add a little cheese on top, Parmesan is really delish. My biggest challenge right now is to forgo the crusty bread that I would so love to dip into this. Ahhhh, bread.

Oh, and if you DO need an official recipe check out the back of the Bush's Cannellini bean can. It's called Cannellini Florentine. Or click here for the recipe.

Yesterday's Creativity Break

2011-01-13T07:30:00.001-08:00

I finally gave myself permission to spend an entire afternoon creating. It's been a very long time since I've actually done that without feeling guilty about not doing something else. I've had the idea of these cards in the back of my mind for a while now, and I'm delighted to see them become real. These are going to be sent to a special someone. You know, just a little something to let them know I am thinking about them.

In the Preserve

2011-01-12T08:59:00.001-08:00

The Quest for Healthy Living

2011-01-07T09:08:00.000-08:00

I'm on a mission. Over the past few months I have really been changing the way we eat. I joined Weight Watchers and have lost 13 pounds so far. It's come off really really slow, but I'm so ok with that. A pound a week, heck yeah I'll take that. If it means I can eat things and not deprive myself so that I go over the edge, then that's a good thing, right?

It's a lot simpler than I would have thought. It's about understanding portion size. It's about understanding your body chemistry and what you put in it. It's about moderation. Duh.

But I can still cook, I can still invent, I can still experiment and find new favorites. Like:

Yesterday we went for a walk in the preserve and came home and shoveled the entire drive and back yard. I came in and made myself cup of cocoa with 25 calorie cocoa, fat free Cool Whip and...(wait for it)...a small shot of Amaretto. YUM! 2 WW points, well worth it!

Working from home I get to make myself something fresh and tasty each day. I try to get creative and make new things. This is a taco (not new) but I used canned chicken from Costco which is very easy, healthy and remarkably delish. 1 serving (1/3 of the can) is only 1 WW point. Slap that on a Carb smart tortilla with some lowfat hot cheese, reduced fat sour cream, fresh lettuce and cilantro and VOILA. Instant new fav. I had 2 of these babies for 9 points overall and am completely satisfied (with my mouth still burning from that cheese).

NY Wishes

2011-01-05T06:49:00.001-08:00

Just a little something I made for a few friends to wish them a happy new year.

It was a VERY merry Christmas

2010-12-26T10:16:00.001-08:00

We (ok, I) survived! Five cats, two dogs, four kids, me and the hubs. Yes, you read right, 5 cats. KC has two adorable kittens that came for a couple of days and Keenan brought his dog Ranger. There was a ton of commotion and activity, but overall it was a very lovely holiday.

Christmas Eve - around 1am. When all the wrapping was done and the visiting Pablo (aka Hot Mess) finally fell asleep. (The cat's nickname is hot mess, not K's)

They wanted a family photo in their red jammies. This one was my favorite because it captures the father/daughter/daughter/son dynamic so well.

Activity based holidays seem to work well for us. Everyone loved the fondue.

Even Mr. Picky.

Recently at the compound

2010-12-21T07:54:00.001-08:00

My first cookie exchange - ever. Now I know why. It's mass production, yuck! 7 dozen (4 batches because the recipe I chose only made 2 dozen each!).

Homemade gifts for great friends. Loving the Japanese washi tape as decor. And you can't go wrong with the kitchen twine.

A different kind of Palette

2010-12-13T12:50:00.001-08:00

My kitchen is one of my very favorite places to be right now.
Warm, cozy, cooking, baking bliss.

Today it was Mocha orange brownies and Coffee-and-cream sandwich cookies.

I get to hang out with the cats, watch the birds, and do what I love (create things) in a different way with a different palette. I'm beginning to think I may have many.

Palette

2010-12-11T10:54:00.000-08:00

I'm wondering if anyone else works like this. When I'm working on a "big" project, I like to gather as many things as I can to choose from. This then becomes my palette - colors, textures, metals, ink, etc... Honestly, sometimes I just like looking at it as a little piece of art in itself that resides in my studio while I work. I can't wait to share the final project with you - but it's a xmas gift, so it's going to have to wait.

I had to bring Jane's basket in so she could hang with me while I work. It was this or my having to deal with her bugging me to lay on my lap or arms. So now she's happy and I'm happy and work can continue to get done.

Hope everyone is doing well, and taking time to enjoy the pre-holiday activities. I have to thank my friend Wakako for (re)inspiring me to go with my plan of many homemade presents this year. I look forward to sharing the final gifts with you.

Peace.

Xmas Tag Samples

2010-12-05T06:47:00.001-08:00

Potential "workshop" at the (other) Kennedy Compound. Xmas tags with friends.

Yesterday Afternoon Sunlight

2010-11-29T18:15:00.000-08:00

Sunday. Football. Computer Roaming. No where to go. No one coming over. Sunshine. Bliss.

Happy Birthday

2010-11-28T08:19:00.000-08:00

We had a major birthday bash for my Mom, aunt and niece yesterday. All of my siblings + spouses (minus John, we missed him!) were there. 17 in all. Thank you Buca di Peppo...great food, no dishes!

We made our way back to The (other) Kennedy Compound for dessert and presents. I had a ton of fun making Butter Pecan Cupcakes, sugar cookies and caramel thumbprints. My sister brought a cranberry orange cake and I served leftover pumpkin cheesecake. Though everyone was stuffed from turkey day and the pasta, the desserts were a big hit!

I love using my antique linens and cake plates. I also think I am in love with making cupcakes...they are so showy!

THINGS

2010-11-22T14:19:00.001-08:00

is happening at the (other) Kennedy Compound. We've been busy re-purposing, moving, getting rid of and organizing THINGS. It feels like a direction shift in our lives, at least to me.

My studio is getting another purposeful overhaul. Closets have been cleaned and are ready for new shelves and order. We moved the futon and replaced it with drawers that are helping to have more of my craft/business supplies close at hand. As it continues to take shape I realize how lucky I am to have this. Seriously lucky, I know!

Look for more pics to come + updates on other areas of the house.

I must have this chair.

2010-11-08T17:27:00.000-08:00

I have been looking and looking and looking for the perfect chair for the corner of my bedroom. This is it. It's from Target - of all places! And it's on sale. And shipping is free. Wanna bet I get it?!?

Looking forward to...

2010-10-20T09:46:00.000-07:00

My exciting new healthy lifestyle
Cooking in my super clean kitchen
Everything fall - leaves, baking, pumpkins, cider
Walks in the nature preserve with the pooch
Making new friends at the craft workshop tonight
Continued costume planning for a Halloween Party
Getting further with items for my store
Spending time with the hubs in front of the fireplace

A Fine Fall Day

2010-10-10T13:10:00.001-07:00

The weather was perfect for a walk in the woods. We walked to the bridge, looked to see if the Fairy's were home in their magic tree, learned a new trick from Clara, and had a good morning. The light was beautiful. The colors spectacular and the opportunities for capturing the memories fast and furious.

Raspberry Picking

2010-10-09T11:12:00.000-07:00

Raspberry picking was a ton of fun. We'd just gotten to the "good" part of the bushes when Mr. Snake decided to come visit me in my row. I decided I was done. When the other pickers said "Just think of it is a lizard without legs," I pretty much shivered harder and high tailed it to my car.

These babies are frozen and ready for the freezer. So sweet and fresh! I'd love to get more, but am not too keen on picking them myself. Any volunteers? I'll make the jam/crumble/ice cream...you choose.

Happy Fall

2010-10-04T08:13:00.000-07:00

Spent a quiet weekend at home. After spending 16 days in Cali it was nice to be in my own home, cooking for the family and spending some creative time in my studio.

Cali was excellent! You can see the photos here. So inspiring. So relaxed. So colorful, comfortable and care-free.

I was lucky to have K come and spend a few days with me. We experienced so much - Venice Beach, Santa Monica, the Pub with my cousin, Sunday football in Malibu, and 115 degree weather!

I adored spending so much time with my good friends and was sad to say goodbye to little Roo. Spending almost 3 weeks with her and her mama was incredible. She grew up so much during those few days, I can't wait to see her again (hopefully in a few more weeks?).

I'm glad to be home. I love Fall. Cool weather, fires, baking, comfort food, pumpkins, apples, long walks in the preserve. Life is good.

The Future Shop

2010-09-08T11:18:00.001-07:00

I have been talking for a long time about opening an online shop to sell some of my creations. The end of this summer was extremely busy, but I feel like I might now be able to get back to that dream. I set some time aside today to create a few things. It's been months and months and months since I have crafted.

This is one of many little gift cards that I created. They are small little cards that you can tuck into a bag or attach to a present. I think they will go nicely with simple wrap (like craft paper) or solid color wrap.

Stay tuned, hopefully I will be up and running soon!

Ch ch ch changes...

2010-09-06T18:20:00.000-07:00

"But that was my favorite tree," she said with a genuinely sad face as she watched them take the tree down. She was not comforted that it would be replaced "with something better". I know how she feels.

Another Adventure

2010-08-02T07:56:00.000-07:00

I am making the food for my friend's luau party this weekend. 50 people! I've been testing recipes and making dishes to get acquainted with things and to make sure everything is just right. So far only one dish needs to be revamped.

Appetizers: Hawaiian Pie and Aloha Pie - which is a sweet and salty chicken pizza

Finger foods and salads: Chicken and Pineapple Skewers, Spicy Shrimp, Smoky Pork, Coconut Lime Rice, Orange & Avacado Salad, Tropical Salsa/Bruchetta, Kings Hawaiian Rolls

Dessert table: Fruit platter and dip, Hawaiian Island Cupcakes, Sugar Cookies, Pineapple Anginetta Cream Puffs, Macadamia Lemon Bars

More details and pics to come!
Wish me luck.

Early Summer

2010-07-18T19:15:00.000-07:00

It has been good. Very good, indeed.
Willow (and the rest of us!) had an excellent weekend up at the cottage.

The boyz played rock basketball at the lake.

Birthday presents, work and beer. But not in that order.

A very very happy Boo in the sun on the drying quilt.

Scenes from My New Life

2010-06-30T19:23:00.000-07:00

My "goodie" box for Up North, soon to be seen on Etsy
Birthday present from my sister...Oil and Vinegars
Organized Living...linen cabinet baskets

Quote of the Day

2010-06-28T08:20:00.000-07:00

I like her because she smiles at me and means it.

~Anonymous

Last Thursday

2010-06-27T13:00:00.000-07:00

Was a beautiful summer night.
Za on the patio. Perfect lighting.

Inside looking out. Lush green with a side of rainbow.

A Perfect Day for a Picnic

2010-06-20T09:24:00.000-07:00

Special treats for special people.

2010-06-18T06:33:00.000-07:00

Muffins & flowers for my sister and BIL's visit.

"Treats" for the birthday girls - CD and KW.

The Ballerina

2010-05-12T19:13:00.001-07:00

She was the littlest of the group, but had a big attitude. Sooo cute. Sooo full of energy. So independent.

Haircut

2010-05-11T09:55:00.001-07:00

Going to get my hair cut for the first time in about 8 or 9 months. This is the before, let's hope the after looks good.

In my studio this week

2010-05-04T14:45:00.000-07:00

Using vertical space.
Showcasing my recent favorite pictures (and new camera bag).
Working on paper first.
K left his sketchbook behind.

Old dog, new tricks

2010-04-24T16:21:00.000-07:00

Kent trying to get Willow to like her new dog house.

Potting Bench Revisited

2010-04-24T05:19:00.000-07:00

I spent some time in the shed yesterday while the sun was still out. It was awesome to just organize and get things ready for spring. I think we forget how early it still is, the nice weather is deceiving. But now I'm ready...my greenhouse is out and I've planted some seeds. Check out all the pics here on Flickr.

Last Night's Shabu

2010-04-18T06:34:00.000-07:00

Oh it was so good. Added 2 cloves garlic to the stock when boiling. Sliced onion in with the veggies. The little brown mushrooms tasted like butter! Ginger as a condiment. We missed the diakon radish (I couldn't find at local market). Did not get to rice level...need more people, I think.

Daisy and Donald

2010-04-13T10:36:00.000-07:00

It's a good day to be a duck at the Kennedy Compound.

In a year from now...

2010-04-09T09:45:00.000-07:00

I wonder how many of my new adventures will become real. Right now I have a bunch of new ideas in the air and would really like to make each of them come true.

An Etsy store.
An Online business (can't share details yet, but this could be BIG)
Specializing in helping to shape the future of libraries
K2+ research and brainstorming facilitation

Over a year ago I created a post about what I wanted to be/do when I grew up. Remarkably everything in that post came to fruition. I became a teacher at CCS, a design school, nonetheless. I got involved with my public library, met an amazing group of people and continue to look for opportunities to connect and be involved. My consulting company K2+ is doing well. Three straight years of steady work and income. And I've been able to stay true to my vision of Cool Projects, Cool People.

So on to life's next adventures. Tapping into my creative side, with a desire for having a couple different, unique businesses. Working with people I enjoy and who inspire me each and every day. Stretching myself to seek new opportunities that I could never have imagined when I worked in a big organization.

My BFF Wakako sent me this link on Zen Habits and I think it summarizes everything up nicely.

Stay agile and enjoy the benefits of living in a world that’s full of diverse possibilities by remaining curious and open to noticing the changes in the opportunities around you and your emotional responses to them.

I am looking forward to Stumbling Upon Happiness.

Spoiled

2010-04-09T07:42:00.000-07:00

Thought I would share this, just because I haven't shared any pet pics lately. Not that I haven't taken them...

Caramelized Onion Bread Pudding

2010-03-30T05:52:00.000-07:00

Couldn't be easier. You may even have the ingredients in the house *right now*.

Bread (french, old/er, cubed), milk (2 cups, whatever type you have), eggs (2), cheese (1 cup, I used gruyere, but any would be good), thyme, salt, pepper, and onions (caramelized, I used 1 yellow, 2 red).

Beat wet ingredients, reserve 1/4. Add bread + 1/2 onions + 1/2 cheese to mixture. Pour in greased casserole dish, top with remaining cheese, onions and milk mix. 425 degrees until golden brown, approx 30 minutes.

Baking to stay (semi) sane

2010-03-21T08:20:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I needed to do something to take my mind off things. So I decided to bake. I used to be an incredible baker, but not so much anymore. I prefer to cook vs. bake. But I knew I had some mixes that I had bought to try so I did just that. An eclectic mix of peanut butter cookies (from Target Market Pantry mix, oh so good and easy), Mocha orange cupcakes (using Trader Joe's chocolate orange cake mix + espresso powder) and Beer, garlic, cheddar bread (concocted from a mix as well).

Saturday Brunch

2010-03-13T10:09:00.000-08:00

We always seem to attract at least one furry visitor when we sit down in the kitchen to eat. This morning it was Bella, looking for bacon scraps.

Skip to my lou

2010-03-08T08:19:00.001-08:00

Skip to my lou, originally uploaded by skturbokitty.

We had an awesomely sunny day yesterday and found ourselves hanging outside. I took the opportunity to snap some photos. I've found myself avoiding my camera lately and want to get back into it. Luckily I had some willing participants to play along with me. Check out my favorites here.

Sunny Sunday Morning

2010-03-07T10:23:00.000-08:00

Spent the night last night at my mom's and we had a breakfast adventure this AM. It was so fun. I always go to be before her...I usually think she's right behind me but she's obviously a night owl. When I woke up in the morning and went in the kitchen to start the coffee, the kitchen was all cleaned and set up for breakfast. She used all her super cute plates and cups and placemats. It was like Christmas when I was a kid, we went to bed to one thing and woke up to magic! She bought me this new pan that we've both been eyeballing and we experimented with Aebleskiver. We made raspberry, apricot and then each had a nutella filled one. My favorite was the apricot, it went well with the Whole Wheat pancake batter I used.

Can't wait to keep trying this, I think it just may be the next big thing!

Say I Am

2010-03-02T06:16:00.000-08:00

A fellow Unraveller shared this wonderful song and video and I absolutely LOVE it.

Comfortaboo

2010-03-01T06:42:00.001-08:00

A very happy, snuggly, satisfied Bella (aka Boo). Sleeping on K's legs while he sleeps through the Olympic Closing Ceremony.

Playing in the snow.

2010-02-27T14:54:00.001-08:00

Vacationing in the D

2010-02-19T11:53:00.000-08:00

I convinced Kent to take yesterday and today off and planned for us to spend a day downtown. We occasionally go to Detroit but not as much as we could. The city really is interesting and has a lot to offer. I used Yelp to help me plan the day and we hit a bunch of places neither of us had been.

We started the morning off at Avalon International Breads which truly was as wonderful as all of the reviews stated! It's a small place, but jam packed filled with wonderful sights and smells. The best part is that I learned that it is about 5 minutes away from CCS! I can go there and grab lunch or baked goodies before or after class, pretty exciting.

After that we went to Eastern Market, but we only went into one store. I'm gonna have to go back with a more willing and interested shopper.

From there I dropped K off at the DIA and I went to teach. I picked him up a few hours later and we headed to Motor City Brewing where he enjoyed the Pale Ale and I enjoyed a glass (or two) of a Michigan Pinot Grigio. Food was good. It's a small place, but I'd definitely recommend it. Friendly staff.

I had also plotted to check out Foran's Grand Trunk Pub, which I also learned about on Yelp. K enjoyed the fact that they had sooooo many Michigan beers. We had a delightful conversation with a gentleman who was a regular (a lawyer that worked just around the corner) who came in for one rum and coke and a small bowl of potato chips - I assume every day. I have a feeling that K will return there with a friend to enjoy more Michigan beer adventures.

We decided to head home and park ourselves in front of the Olympics for the rest of the evening. I was able to stay awake and enjoy the US take Gold in the Men's skating and K was out like a light.

All and all it was a great day. It has made me realize that we need to do more exploring in our own area and to frequent the D more often.

This is what bored dog looks like.

2010-02-12T11:07:00.001-08:00

We've been going out to play everyday in the snow, but in between outings she is bored. I wish she had someone else that would take her and play with her. Today she was kinda pathetic just laying in the studio like this. We went out to play in the snow and it made her happy (for a short while).

Pancakes for dinner

2010-01-17T09:40:00.000-08:00

It's been nice being home, settling in. Classes started last week and I think I have some really great students. Not having a morning class will also help, more awakeness and participation (by them as well as me!).

One night last weekend I decided to make pancakes for dinner. I can't remember ever doing this before. We weren't crazy hungry and when I mentioned it to K he said "sounds good". It was simple, delicious, warm and filling. I highly suggest trying it - don't complicate it with anything else. Just whip up a batch, serve with butter and warm syrup and enjoy!

I leave next Wednesday to go back east for a while...but it's all good. I feel at home there and will look forward to being back home here and finishing out the winter months.

Outside my Studio

2010-01-08T06:02:00.000-08:00

This is what it looks like outside my studio this AM. The snow is beautiful, stuck to all the branches and left over leaves. Today I will spend the day working on a project, gazing out at the snow and watching the birds on the feeders. I'm lucky to have this.

Dork

2010-01-06T08:11:00.000-08:00

Sometimes you just have to laugh at yourself for being such a dork.

My 2010 Word

2010-01-03T15:42:00.001-08:00

ENERGY.

And I'm pretty damn excited about it. Just choosing it last night and waking it up with it on my mind made a world of difference.

As you may or may not know, I spent the last 2.5 weeks in Maryland with my sister helping her and my brother-in-law through some tough times. I was away from my husband and the kids for the holidays, and missing the knuckleheads tremendously. However I learned so much about myself. I learned a ton from my sister.

That woman has the most incredible energy...she hardly ever stops, even when for all intensive purposes she should have just collapsed. Just by being around her I found myself energized and so much more effective and efficient. She said she didn't know what she would have done without me, but I need to tell HER how much she's impacted my outlook for the next year.

On the plane ride home I decided that I was going to change my perspective of the new year ahead. She has inspired me to, no matter what, look for ENERGY to accomplish whatever needs to be accomplished.

This word for the year makes a whole lot of sense to me... so much more than written resolutions or a list of things I want to accomplish. I just need to focus and put ENERGY behind whatever faces me each and every day. And it WILL be a GOOD YEAR.

Thistle Beauty

2009-12-12T09:36:00.001-08:00

Thistle Beauty, originally uploaded by skturbokitty.

We took a walk today through "our" nature preserve. We've been doing that more and more and the dawg loves it. When we walk I think of Wakako and her canyon and how I hope that wherever she lands next she will have a little piece of this that she can enjoy.

19 degrees, but sunny. I like it that way.

This ain't no ordinary turkey.

2009-12-06T16:29:00.000-08:00

Smooch

2009-12-05T19:31:00.000-08:00

There are those that don't read this blog...namely my sisters. So be it. Well, we are well here at The Other Kennedy Compound, thankyouverymuchforasking. Willow is still somewhat in her puppydom. She doesn't like being left alone as she has been in the past few weeks. That is up to me to get her to daycare and run some of that energy off. She's a chewer....a talker.... a mooch.... but all and all she is a good dawg. I love her.

Quite a weekend.

2009-11-22T19:40:00.000-08:00

Friday = made nibble mix to send East. A great non-TV night Friday introducing K to Facebook...who knew? We'll see.

Saturday's surprise visitor kept me busy... lunch, finding old xmas decor, and shopping. So happy to share with friends. It was a great day!

Sunday was date day, Recipe for breakfast! (yum), to mom's to help with a craft and then to the Lion's game - which THEY WON! After that we went to Loui's for dinner. The best pizza evah!

Got news that nephews are coming for Turkey day... yahoo. So the cooking/baking commences.

Weekend = win.

All she wants to do is snuggle

2009-11-16T16:58:00.000-08:00

Jane is constantly looking to snuggle these days. Especially in my studio while I am trying to work. She used to do this as a kitten, grew up, and now that she's getting older (12!) she's back at it. I'm not complaining, mind you. Who wouldn't want a purring, warm, snuggly fur ball asking for attention?

Weekend Crafting - Thanks CD!

2009-11-09T08:33:00.000-08:00

Easy, fun and uses supplies on hand. Win win win.

The Kiss

2009-11-01T17:55:00.001-08:00

The kiss, originally uploaded by skturbokitty.

Yeah, it was like that....

Ummmm...

2009-10-21T17:28:00.000-07:00

K just pointed out that my pics are of the back-side of the tile. That they are actually smooth. I kinda liked the texture side. He now likes this much better. Either way I guess it's a go.

Total goof-ball moment for me.

What do you think?

2009-10-21T13:50:00.001-07:00

I've been eyeing these custom Mod-Walls blenders for at least 2 years now. I ordered a sample to see what the custom blend would be like, and lo & behold they are actually cooler in person than I imagined. We'll make these into a back splash in the laundry room, and not sure where else. We have to order 20 sq. feet if we custom choose colors. Perhaps a coffee table for the breakfast nook when I re-do the kitchen?

Halloween Party Songs!

2009-10-17T09:58:00.000-07:00

Made this for a swap I was sending. It totally rocks, IMHO. Favorites include Dead Man's Party, Addams Groove, Welcome to My Nightmare and of course, Thriller. All songs available on iTunes - or comment if you want me to send a CD.

Old Enough to Know Better (?)

2009-10-13T09:47:00.000-07:00

September 28th was her 1 year birthday. We celebrated with an eventful trip to the vet, consisting of me being utterly embarrassed by her non-stop "talking" and her being taken into the back to get blood drawn because I couldn't hold her still. She's a handful, and yet she completes my life. She has destroyed a ton of things around this house, including multiple rugs, carpet, shoes and most recently the guest room quilt. From what I've read, chewing is from boredom, but she does it at the oddest times and even after we've spent a ton of time with her and purposely given her play dates. Shouldn't she be over this by now? She has plenty of toys, attention and exercise.

It's frustrating. Really frustrating. She tends to act up when I am gone for the weekend or any amount of time, which is just like a kid, isn't it? I have to say she is damn lucky she is so cute, otherwise I know she'd be out on her ear.

Za (ala Bistro Bella Vita)

2009-10-12T17:42:00.000-07:00

Goat cheese, gorganzola, parmesan, roasted asparagus, mushrooms, garlic oil and rosemary. $1.99 dough from Holiday Market = YUM!

Ridiculously excited

2009-10-08T15:22:00.000-07:00

I have this awesome opportunity that fell into my lap to not only help COOK for a small wedding party with my friend Nic, but to help with decor as well.

Originally inspired by (who else?) Wakako, we've taken the Michigan, fall, nature theme to heart. Today I went "shopping" in my yard and cut grass, chocolate joe pyeweed, and sweet potato vine. Kent also cut up branches that we will use as trivets, place cards and menu holders.

On top of the cuteness you will not believe the menu. Nic is AMAZING and I am so excited to cook with her again! We are talking salad with roasted pears, gruyere/parm shavings and a ginger vinaigrette, roast vegetable terrine, apple celeriac potato gratin and cider glazed chicken.

Here is just a sneak peek of some of my crafts. Tune back in for more photos after Saturday.

Monday Night Eats

2009-10-05T17:43:00.000-07:00

Tried a new recipe tonight - Chicken with 40 Cloves of Garlic. I've always wanted to try this and it was as good as what I'd heard. I did not use 40 cloves however, I decided to take others advice and use 20 cloves, smashed - it actually gives it more flavor. The garlic roasts and mellows in the bottom of the dutch oven while the chicken gets flavored through the aromatic steam. It was so moist, falling off the bone. I've kept the drippings/broth to use later this week.

I have to admit, there was another star of the meal tonight - Trader Joe's Arancini Bites (breaded rice balls filled with fontina cheese) with Puttanesca Sauce. If you have a TJ's near you, run out and buy this to have on hand. They are soooooo good and easy. Two thumbs up.

Sunset at the Compound

2009-09-30T09:10:00.001-07:00

The Guest Room is Ready For YOU.

2009-09-26T12:15:00.000-07:00

When are you going to come?

Postmarked: Black Rock City

2009-09-18T07:34:00.000-07:00

Last night when I got home from all the drama at the vets (Jane's surgery + Willow's first visit = stress!) I didn't go into the studio and see the mail. So this AM I found this awesome postcard from (the previously mentioned, Ms. Awesomeness) Wakako!

Too cool. I love the burn burn burn on the stamp.

Wakako went to Burning Man this year, and I got a postcard! It's the little things that make me happy, and this was one of them. Check out W's pics of Burning Man - and I'm sure they will be showing up as art at some point in her store: Story Of.

PS: The front of the postcard was just as special. It was this one, available in her store, as well. One of my favorites - how did she know?

This is why I adore her!

2009-09-16T07:16:00.000-07:00

This is my good friend Wakako (taken last summer at the cottage, yes she is walking a cat).

She is amazing. How amazing you ask? Check out this amazing interview she recently did with Paper 'n Stitch.

Can she really be "all that" you ask? I will tell you YES. Yes she is. And I am one damn lucky person to have her in my life and to be able to call her my friend.

W - Yay you!

Like Clockwork.

2009-09-09T16:34:00.000-07:00

We have a momma dear and her two babies (quite grown up now) visit us every night at dusk. Somehow Willow senses them - how does she do it? I missed them all summer...kept hearing how everyone else saw them & never got to witness them myself. Until this weekend and then today. Right through the yard, nibbling on grapes. Our own little Nature Preserve - how awesome.

Amazing Food!

2009-09-06T18:29:00.000-07:00

We have had some amazing food this weekend. It was what I wanted to do this weekend...nest & cook. Friday I made a copy of a pizza I had in Grand Rapids at Bistro Bella Vita that had goat cheese, gorganzola, roasted asparagus, wild mushrooms and topped with fried garlic oil. It was amazing!
I paired it with roasted shrimp cocktail (Barefood Contessa Recipe) with spicy mayo and bread crumbs. My own little version of happy hour for the hubs and I.

On Saturday we had a little impromptu get together, which allowed me to cook most of the day for some really great friends. I made my favorite white bean dip w/ toasted bread and veggies, BBQ Braised Country Spare Ribs with Mustard Beer Glaze (freakin' amazing!), garlic smashed red potatoes and oven roasted corn. Sorry no pics! We were too busy eating, chatting, laughing, and enjoying some really really good wine. I strongly suggest the Coppola Director's Cut Pinot Noir. The gang enjoyed a homemade blueberry cobbler with vanilla ice cream. Pics would have been cool.... oh well.
Tonight the kids were here and we had Shabu Shabu. It's silly how excited they get over having it. I finally found World Market in Novi that carries the Shabu meat, at it was delicious. Even Alex, our picky eater, ate round after round. To honor the person that introduced this to me, we did a little fighting over the meat!
Not sure what is on the menu for tomorrow - but it will be something good, I'm sure. I still have brussell sprouts to roast, spinach salad makings, potatoes to bake, different peppers to play with and tons of fresh herbs in the garden. I love cooking this time of year.

Mom's Amazing Artisan Bread

2009-08-25T17:27:00.000-07:00

My mom made this when we were at the cottage - a crusty, rosemary, lemon artisan bread. I can't stop thinking about it. When things settle down I think I will attempt making it myself.

Summer Moments

2009-07-26T14:17:00.001-07:00

Up North

2009-06-13T17:19:00.000-07:00

The sounds:

The waves
The sprinkler
The doves (huuuuu huuu huuuuuuuu)
The birds: gulls, jays, sparrows, and others... letting us know they are there
Neighbors mower

The smells:

Sunscreen
Freshly cut grass
Lake water
Freshly bake spice cake

The sights:

Seashells, pinecones, robins eggs, rocks, shells, drift wood - on the beach
Fresh planted gardens, waiting to grow and take bloom
Boats, tubers, beach walkers
Sunset
Neighbors... who were dearly missed last year!

WELCOME SUMMER 2009!

Spring Dessert

2009-05-07T05:57:00.000-07:00

Butter pound cake cubes, vanilla pudding, strawberries & blue berries tossed in sugar and a little almond extract, cool whip and toasted cake crumbs.

Herbs & Decor

2009-05-04T17:46:00.000-07:00

I planted my little herb corner yesterday. 3 kinds of basil, dill, thyme, sage, marjoram, rosemary, curly parsley, and flat parsley. Happiness is watching them grow and using them throughout the season. I just realized that I forgot tarragon. I'll have to add that to the mix.

Bottom right is a planter with sedum and hens & chicks. It's my go-to table top planter that I move around throughout the summer, depending on what needs a little greenery.

Picture of the day.

2009-05-01T14:58:00.000-07:00

Picture of the pictures on my desk.
Me and my Dad.

She's Baaaaaack!

2009-04-30T15:17:00.001-07:00

We are so happy she is safe and sound at home. She's quite the eater, she'll be putting back on the pounds she lost "out in the wild" in no time...earning her back her Missus Big Bottom nickname.

Photography and Photoshop.

2009-04-29T06:35:00.001-07:00

My stellar photography with K's expert Photoshop skills. Good for a laugh either way.

Picture of the day.

2009-04-27T09:15:00.000-07:00

I finally got my new camera lens & I'm pretty excited about using it.
Look for more bird stories to come.

Class Assignment

2009-04-23T18:30:00.000-07:00

We had a field trip to downtown Northville for our Capture The Moment class. At first I didn't feel like going. Then I got there and I really didn't feel the vibe. Then, all of a sudden, I'm like...OK, this I can do. These are a few of my favorite shots.

The Flood

2009-04-23T07:24:00.000-07:00

Bad news - we found 3 feet of water in our crawl space on Monday night.
Good news - we supported Earth Week by not running the furnace all week (toasted from flood).

Life happens.

Easter 2009

2009-04-12T19:22:00.000-07:00

It was a pretty laid back day. I got up, finished frosting the Longanbach cookies, woke K up (around NOON!) and we got ready to go to my Brother's for dinner. We picked up my Aunt along the way, as well as Alex and my Mom. We spent the day with my SIL's parents, who were my parents BF's when we were growing up. It was a nice day.

Biggest thing that happened today was that Willow totally shredded the pillow in her cage while we were gone. I called it. Knew it would happen. It looks like she created a flippin' birds nest with filler. Good thing I thought twice about buying her that new bed!