tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44775626867143281142011-07-08T03:47:44.309-04:00A glimpse into the life and work of an inspired mother and aspiring artistMurrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.comBlogger1361100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-63842583373290834602009-05-06T23:24:00.006-04:002009-05-06T23:38:13.968-04:00

8.29 lbs, 20 1/2 inches long, arrived today via C-section (seems she was rather comfy right where she was, and refused to budge no matter how hard my sister pushed and pleaded). Mother, father and baby are happy, healthy and resting comfortably. My cheeks ache from smiling, she is absolutely gorgeous, crab mustard and all.

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-45045009723686252712009-02-03T09:55:00.009-05:002009-02-06T16:24:48.286-05:00

Good friends of ours were married this afternoon... secret married (my favorite kind of married just so you know!). As luck would have it, Fritz and Tim (the groom) have a client who's a judge and was more than happy to marry them in town. So sweet and simple and romantic.I wanted to give Mary Jo (the bride) a little something personal to commemorate her day, and decided to put together this

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-54471929906698888542009-02-03T09:29:00.003-05:002009-02-03T09:41:49.333-05:00

A special something for a special someone. Putting this together was so EXCITING! I can't wait until Friday when I can post a picture of what's inside! Just what i needed to get me back in the studio I might add. I've had quite a break, so I'm off to dabble and organize. Happy February! (isn't it the loveliest little month?)

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-39482708695680618712009-01-28T23:31:00.003-05:002009-01-28T23:52:48.394-05:00

http://jacksonpollock.org/Thanks Fritz and the uber duber hip Tim.

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-67115223541317307792009-01-28T15:40:00.005-05:002009-01-28T22:32:12.479-05:00

to mention the CPSIA! I first read about this misguided proposition on Kate's blog, and could scarcely believe it. I won't go on and on about the specifics since there are a multitude of sites better able to explain what it is exactly and why it needs to be amended. Suffice to say, it could quite literally bring a screeching halt to the availability of beautiful, affordable, handmade crafts for

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-30293421623489245412009-01-28T11:26:00.012-05:002009-02-03T10:07:55.463-05:00

E and Noel have had nasty colds, the type that make you miss birthday parties and even school.Today they are on the mend, not quite 100%, and blissfully unaware that their mean mommy is not letting them play in the snow after lunch. It's not good snow anyway... we typically get the slushy variety buried under a quarter inch of ice. Pretty for a while, then dirty, then gone.Hopefully we'll watch

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-32287389117529110092009-01-20T12:48:00.000-05:002009-01-20T12:49:06.149-05:00

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-1489077784368487292009-01-09T07:54:00.003-05:002009-01-09T08:00:43.630-05:00

Maybe now 'll finally have the patience to learn how to knit.

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-86722864484729934112009-01-07T23:18:00.005-05:002009-01-07T23:40:51.677-05:00

My darling E turned SIX today, and my heart skipped a beat. We celebrated with soft pretzels for her classmates, a trip in town to the ophthalmologist for Noel and pizza and cupcakes with Mom-Mom. It was a wonderfully exhausting day. We are ever so s-l-o-w-l-y returning to life as usual, another week or two and I think we'll be there.

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-8201350054383536042009-01-05T07:31:00.006-05:002009-01-05T07:56:13.478-05:00

I don't make resolutions, because I CAN NOT keep them- the moment I feel obligated to do something, I refuse. Still, I do hope to start anew- to spend my time more deliberately, to be more prepared and less exacting- that's good enough for now (I think). I have joined a group on Flickr in an attempt to capture a piece of each day for posterity.And now I need to wake up E; school and work (and the

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-53647498175500565072008-11-10T14:29:00.009-05:002008-11-10T15:15:57.296-05:00

Looking forward...and looking back.Of course this is hours after I was horrified by the most repulsive bug I've seen in some time (and I've been to Costa Rica-- I've seen AWFUL bugs!). Fritz was less than thrilled when I awoke him at 6 am to come downstairs and get this "thing". He later investigated (at my insistence, otherwise how would we know if it were a danger to our children, biting them

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-79446882549600680612008-11-06T09:54:00.007-05:002008-11-06T10:50:21.653-05:00

... because it's rainy and I'm bored. And because I woke up yesterday and saw the world in a whole new light, my home included. I'm feeling grateful, fortunate, optimistic, empowered--I've finally stopped crying tears of joy, but can't seem to shake this silly grin. Yesterday I let Evie (who was just named student of the month at school!!) roast marshmallows over the stove, this morning I made

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-25516227964150291522008-11-04T07:22:00.003-05:002008-11-04T07:27:39.107-05:00

I hope you already voted!

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-4934227553496120602008-10-29T22:07:00.005-04:002008-10-29T22:19:59.350-04:00

Guess the curse was broken? Thanks to Comcast and this little guy perhaps?Maybe now that they've actually won the World Series, Evie will stop running around the house chanting "G.O P.H.I.L.L.I.E.S". Thanks Kindergarten, she can't tell the difference between 12 and 20 but she can spell Go Phillies in her sleep.

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-36600795036583964402008-10-29T20:52:00.004-04:002008-10-29T21:30:39.314-04:00

We were greeted by this rather ominous fellow the other day after school. The picture doesn't quite do him justice, but this guy was HUGE, really. While my neighbors stood a bit dumbfounded, I calmly explained to them it was no big deal (albeit slightly out of the ordinary for the suburbs), just a Turkey Buzzard... no need to gather the children and pets and scoot inside. I told everyone they

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-73315207328853962072008-10-26T17:32:00.004-04:002008-10-26T18:16:55.750-04:00

Fritz got an email over the weekend from a close friend asking about baby Rose! Sorry for the confusion, I'm NOT pregnant, my SISTER is! Which is even MORE exciting than being pregnant myself. As much as I adore my children , I loathed being pregnant, and let's just say my birthing experiences were about as atypical as they could possibly be. That being said, my sister's pregnancy has stirred up

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-8661946290090673962008-10-24T13:29:00.011-04:002008-10-26T17:32:35.787-04:00

My 13 Most Beautiful... moments as of late:Nightly homework with E.Fooling with our "new" iMac. Talking with E about baby Rose (arriving in May).A pot of tea in the afternoon.An early morning jog (even if it is on the treadmill).Baking shortbread cookies with raspberry jam.Netflix.Playing the bass with Fritz (while the kids play percussion, poorly and loudly).Rearranging furniture.Collecting

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-69334712387029628572008-09-29T14:50:00.011-04:002008-09-29T16:16:26.629-04:00

I am a bit disgusted these days, what with headlines like this, or this everytime I turn on the computer. Frivolous things, in a most certainly un-frivolous time have a way of wearing on my soul and so, I've found myself with nothing of interest to write... Have a look at Noel's birthday invitation. Not what I had intended (sorry to disappoint, Jen) but as usual, time got away from me.I love this

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-74484399100242780632008-09-15T15:50:00.004-04:002008-09-17T16:43:13.535-04:00

Nearly forgot!I purchased an Etsy Co-Op ad in the next Home Companion magazine, my first actual "advertising". It's the holiday issue, and after much deliberation, I decided to go with something festive. I think it hits newsstands the end of October, so plenty of time to get my shop updated.

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-27462741982353356482008-09-15T15:09:00.005-04:002008-09-15T16:32:02.870-04:00

My life has been a happy blur of activity this past week and I've loved every minute of it, or at least a minute here and there. E is loving school and Noel seems to be loving time alone with me although he frequently hollers, "E, where are you?" and wanders around searching for her. It would be sad if he weren't so stinking sweet.Despite not pausing once whilst passing through my studio this

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-75947611585178816672008-09-04T12:57:00.007-04:002008-09-04T21:34:18.454-04:00

Kissing Noel goodbye at the door.Well, we made it through kindergarten orientation. We met E's teacher, planted a "Hairy Harry", got her first homework assignment, and even met a few friends! No tears. E was nothing but smiles and giggles (so was I). Today I stayed, tomorrow I don't. I think she'll do fine, and I'm getting more and more excited for her to go. She's funny and sweet and clever and

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-52008593843219766202008-09-03T08:53:00.010-04:002008-09-04T13:40:49.983-04:00

Jaime Pitarch "Subject, Abject, Object" 2006Have I mentioned my love of assemblage, installation pieces, or deconstructed/reconstructed sculpture? Readymades and the like are endlessly fascinating to me. I'm currently fawning over the work of Jamie Pitarch (thanks to my sweet husband). I just wish I had more time to enjoy searching out inspiring artists. In college, I worked in the periodical

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-20986827372832861782008-09-03T08:13:00.008-04:002008-09-04T13:26:56.255-04:00

I adore this picture my sister Scotti took over the weekend, hope she doesn't mind me putting it up here. She takes the loveliest photographs (mainly nature shots) and has freelanced as my family photographer for the past five and a half years. We've been discussing light and composition (in the least pretentious way possible) lately, and I think she's really turned a corner. Trying to convince

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-77266043745074704162008-09-02T15:01:00.006-04:002008-09-02T15:23:26.354-04:00

Apparently while we were away, the rest of the world was busy buying shoes to go back to school. Sadly, it seems E will be wearing galoshes or grungy flip flops come Thursday. Oh well, we'll be spending the remainder of our afternoon dancing in the kitchen to one of Evie's favorites: "That's Not My Name" by the Ting Tings.

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-20319948742518971062008-09-02T00:35:00.007-04:002008-09-02T15:24:16.121-04:00

I didn't know crabs could be so tiny,or that watermelon came in yellow,or that life could feel so perfect.Nothing like a six day weekend to freshen your perspective. Not-so-anxiously awaiting the arrival of kindergarten anymore, just relishing my last two days with Evie before the BIG day.

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-83049120507055753262008-08-26T14:51:00.009-04:002008-08-26T16:18:16.443-04:00

I can't remember the exact conversation, but it went something like this:Me (sarcastically): "Aw, they look like mini-Jackson Pollocks."Jen (disgustedly): "I don't get that whole thing, do you?"Me: "Well, he's not my favorite, but I get it, in context."Jen, silent... stares, disapprovingly.Me: "I mean, when you consider the time period he was working in..."Jen: "Uh-huh."Friends since 1985 (

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-10323420100776537662008-08-25T10:05:00.003-04:002008-08-25T12:28:31.852-04:00

My editor informed me my last few posts were heavy on the Domestique and a bit light on the Studio. In an attempt to balance my content, here's a little studio update:Combing through boxes of supplies inspired a few necklaces and adorable little charms which are slowly making their way to the shop. I love my little bits and bobs, scraps and cast offs; they look so lovely grouped together in

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-62692636321621594712008-08-22T11:18:00.012-04:002008-08-22T12:51:47.993-04:00

We are having a grouchy, crabby day. Grouchy days make it easier to think about E starting school. She has already told me twice she "owes me one" which makes me feel sad. But then, she's told me more times than I can count that she "wants Wendy's and is losing her patience with me" which makes me... grouchy. There are other things making me grouchy too:I stepped on the scale and didn't like

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-26009961095017510102008-08-20T10:04:00.008-04:002008-08-20T12:56:55.267-04:00

14 days until the beginning of kindergarten and the end of life as I've known it for five and a half years (yikes!) . No more lazy mornings spent sifting through blueberries and waiting by the kitchen window for our Chip to pop up and say hello. In two short weeks, our routine will change completely.So much to do, so much to relish. Today I think we'll go for a long walk, followed by a picnic in

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-10353978313053386212008-08-19T21:59:00.013-04:002008-08-20T00:12:49.478-04:00

We entertained (and by that I mean I made homemade pizza while we drank beer and watched the Olympics) a bit this weekend. My sister Cait and her friend Mr. McShane came for a brief visit.We went into town yesterday for lunch, milkshakes, shopping, and a walk through the park. It was a lovely visit, especially for the little ones who had a special someone to play with all day long.Evie hung on

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-58608005401767937942008-08-15T15:11:00.009-04:002008-08-15T22:10:27.754-04:00

So my old friend Jaimee tagged me -- six things that make me happy. I've decided to play along since I've had kind of a blah week (sore throats all around and a bit of teething), and just thinking about what makes me happy made me happy. Anyway, here goes:Snow days. Loved them growing up and can't wait till E has her first. I get butterflies in my stomach for days at the prospect of snow!Sea salt

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-15898449442565158292008-08-11T10:23:00.006-04:002008-08-11T10:35:28.965-04:00

Matching (with the exception of the arm rests, but I'm trying to deal with it) lounge chairs for the little ones. $3 at the thrift store and perfect for a cool late summer day like today.Enjoy your Monday!

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-65219718549956170052008-08-08T17:02:00.019-04:002008-08-09T20:59:30.097-04:00

Sun ShowerApparently it's next to impossible for contractors to maintain a schedule. Our 5-10 day project is still incomplete, but at least the bathroom is fully functional. We've spent the week stuck in and around the house; watching, waiting and running downstairs to use the "powder room".I did some shopping (Piperlime), some sewing, recovered my chair again (I think the stripes work better),

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-43981006201897986022008-08-01T16:27:00.005-04:002008-08-01T20:27:56.387-04:00

Proof of progress; with any luck this time next week the bathroom renovation will be a thing of the past (the dirty, stinky, increasingly frustrating past). The boys will be back in the morning to tackle the floor. Next update should be the finished product.

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-23097994069638592652008-07-30T11:34:00.006-04:002008-07-31T09:12:30.955-04:00

I didn't manage a before picture of our butterfly, since I had no idea he was ready to transform into his chrysalis when I tucked him into a jar to show E (incredibly this is what he looked like before, though). Suffice to say, he made it out safe and sound. He hung upside down for nearly three hours before he flew away, just like the Internet predicted! The kids were thrilled, but I was kind of

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-77881454105074762502008-07-25T15:29:00.009-04:002008-07-26T08:17:07.814-04:00

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-21076453312291933582008-07-18T09:02:00.005-04:002008-07-18T10:50:04.426-04:00

I don't even know what to write about this... Illustrator Matthew Woodson was bitten by a spider and nearly died! Medical bills and health insurance for freelancers being what they are, he's taking commissions to help cover his expenses. I've lived in fear (completely rational, I now realize) of a fatal spider encounter for so long, I can't not commission something. Spread the word and think of

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-68400532579738955412008-07-17T08:55:00.007-04:002008-07-18T10:39:25.048-04:00

When I first heard Feist was go to sing on Sesame Street, I was a bit concerned that my son would grow up unaware of the numbers 7 & 8, then I checked out the video. So stinking sweet! How can you not totally love her?!

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-10378573884062247992008-07-14T14:55:00.005-04:002008-07-14T15:57:17.280-04:00

Jeez, Jeez, Jeez Louise. I am heartbroken and devastated... Evie returned from a fair with two goldfish and, well, they just died. Worse yet, it's all my fault, since the water I put them into hadn't been de-chlorinated enough and they just couldn't make it. I feel awful.I have a problem when it comes to pets in "cages". Birds, fish, rodents, hermit crabs, you name it. If it lives in a bowl or a

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-18904017028648424492008-07-09T10:54:00.005-04:002008-07-09T12:35:43.109-04:00

My wonderfully, gloriously fantastic husband just bought me this:I came across Needlequeenette's Etsy shop yesterday and have been obsessed with this picture ever since. It's dark, mysterious, moody, just absolutely perfect. If I could paint (and I most decidedly can not) I'd want to paint just like this. Now I just have to wait for it to get here.Slowly unpacking and quietly absorbing all I

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-49895670596203190732008-07-06T11:26:00.004-04:002008-07-06T11:47:19.264-04:00

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-16730794779326194792008-06-26T23:09:00.020-04:002008-06-27T00:54:01.313-04:00

We've unpacked and recuperated from our last vacation, so I suppose it's only fitting that we head off on another adventure. It is summer after all, and nothing says summer fun like being stuck in the car with two kids for 14 or so hours. Honestly, it's not too bad (just keep your fingers crossed, please). They've cooperated in the past, so we shouldn't have any problems this year. We do a lot of

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-79446601650526193052008-06-24T12:50:00.008-04:002008-06-24T14:36:54.501-04:00

I really envy people who don't have central air. Aside from being totally jealous of living in an area of the country where it's not an absolute necessity, I'm in awe that people can tolerate heat and not be completely miserable. I would die without air conditioning, and probably kill my entire family as well.Today, however, I opened the front door to water my garden and was pleasantly surprised

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-85512804821098845052008-06-21T23:28:00.003-04:002008-06-22T01:24:43.693-04:00

We've been sick. I mean, on vacation. Or rather, sick whilst on vacation. Before you go feeling sorry for me (yet again), I have to tell you, it wasn't all that bad. We still managed to:Play some Crazy Eights Do a little sketching Chat a whole lot (and reminisce, too) Play a couple rounds of Putt-PuttCrab a bit Nap everyday Do a bit of antiquing Walk up and down the rabbit path a dozen or so

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-30150417775118765822008-06-12T13:43:00.008-04:002008-06-12T14:17:43.500-04:00

Looking through my closet, I came across this camera, which my grandfather had given me years ago. With it (at the time) came a brown paper bag containing an additional Polaroid camera. I remember very clearly trashing that bag in the mad panic that was the move from our apartment a half-decade ago. We foolishly thought we'd be able to pack five years worth of living in two days, and needless to

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-45866063579744210132008-06-11T13:08:00.013-04:002008-06-11T16:09:38.308-04:00

We've been tackling a few major (and minor) home projects as of late. The minor being re-covering the seats of my new (old) chairs. Nothing I had in the studio carried quite the punch I'm thinking they needed, graphically-speaking. Then, on a whim, I ordered up some fat quarters from Anna Maria's new home line, not intending to use them for anything in particular, but when they arrived today, I

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-6796547388817931892008-06-09T15:26:00.003-04:002008-06-09T15:32:26.641-04:00

48As a 1930s wife, I amAverageTake the test!(Thanks for sharing Kate, I'll be sure to send a few tips your way.)

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-10338569259139666452008-06-09T08:39:00.004-04:002008-06-09T11:01:47.584-04:00

E has a stomach bug and Noel has a cold. Nothing to do but clean up sick, wipe noses, and play on the laptop while they watch Ratatouille for the billionth time. Perfect excuse to play this Flickr game:1. Steve Zissou, 2. Birdy Bento, 3. Simply White Sands, 4. teatime, 5. Casino Royale 9, 6. Cheers, AnotherSunnyDayInWinter!, 7. Scotland .!Thanks for the scenery......, 8. Vegan Key Lime Tartletes,

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-89696998325714449972008-06-05T10:17:00.007-04:002008-06-05T11:03:24.407-04:00

Really, I do. I even got into an accident a few years back whilst looking for some. Since then, I've kinda laid low, but the other day I drove right by two chairs and couldn't resist (well, one chair and one bench). My children were tickled pink to drive to the train with a chair tucked carefully between their two car seats. E was fascinated by the "spider eggs" clinging to the legs. Off to root

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-31584043543795669132008-05-28T11:54:00.010-04:002008-05-28T14:55:38.659-04:00

The jam is so stinking good. Just like my gram used to make (only with a lot more work on my part and my mom's). There was always homemade strawberry jam in all my family's cupboards. I can remember being young and picking the berries with my gram, Aunt Althea and Miss Pomeroy. Big, mint green 5 gallon buckets... I can't imagine we filled them (that would be a ton of berries), but in my mind we

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-35062740595719394682008-05-27T17:00:00.001-04:002008-05-28T11:35:33.559-04:00

A sunny, early morning drive with Evie and my sister (sans boys!).Strawberries E, my Gram, and my Mom picked that are destined for strawberry jam. (More on that later...)These wonderfully simple "coasters" made by my superbly talented brother-in-law. (Aren't they fabulous? I can't wait to use them out on the back porch!) And of course the gorgeous crimson peony from my sister's garden.All photos

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-34454654807589003422008-05-26T15:58:00.005-04:002008-05-26T16:12:50.023-04:00

Parade - Hoboken, New Jersey (1955)Robert Frank

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-17260320118042666852008-05-24T22:20:00.005-04:002008-05-26T13:10:42.961-04:00

Last night E and I put on our matching pajamas, soaked our feet in hot water, colored in bed and watched Night at the Museum (I wanted to watch Enchanted, but she firmly objected). We were supposed to drink tea and eat something yummy, but we were having so much fun we forgot. The perfect beginning to our holiday weekend. And... if you haven't already, you really need to get this "coloring" book.

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-25476276576098542282008-05-24T12:11:00.002-04:002008-05-24T23:49:07.762-04:00

I've been tagged by the sweet Mare over at Moon and Stars Studio. She's a doll, really, so you should definitely go check her out if you haven't already. The rules of the game are as follows:1. Link back to the person that tagged you.2. Post these rules on your blog.3. Share six unimportant things about yourself.4. Tag six people at the end of your entry.And now for some unimportant bits:I hate

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-41542591031488259062008-05-19T11:04:00.007-04:002008-05-19T13:30:06.942-04:00

I'm sure every family has their own way of celebrating Miracle Monday (not to be confused with Superman's birthday, which is of course celebrated on February 29th). Around here we will be reading from Action Comics #1, feasting on beef bourguignon (Supes' fav), decorating with red and blue streamers and balloons, and enjoying some quality family time.

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-80926259050535370762008-05-17T10:07:00.002-04:002008-05-17T17:01:34.996-04:00

In more family related news... my grandfather passed away. He turned 94 on Monday, golfed on Wednesday, and was rushed to the hospital on Thursday. He was a tough old chap. We were told numerous times over the past two days it would be soon, but it wasn't. We sat with him, held his hand, reminisced over him, and assured him it was alright to let go and find his Betty. Last night at 8 o'clock,

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-9949325576707970142008-05-13T09:31:00.004-04:002008-05-13T09:44:23.614-04:00

The sun is shining. My house is clean. I'm up and dressed and have had my required six cups of coffee. Guess the only thing left to do is head to Terrain to spend my Mother's Day gift card. I'll let you know how I make out.

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-90693351800191485992008-05-12T22:52:00.007-04:002008-05-13T09:30:34.610-04:00

This afternoon, Evie and I made meatballs and gravy from a recipe taught to me by husband's grandmother, taught to her in turn by her husband's mother decades before I was even born. She passed away last week, and although it was not altogether unexpected, it was difficult nonetheless. I spent two hours Friday evening in my studio pressing our clothes for the internment; a shirt for Fritz, a

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-73312420819107809182008-05-07T12:22:00.007-04:002008-05-07T13:34:43.854-04:00

Waking up to the smell of freshly cut grass (hooray for lawn service aka "mow-grassers")Heading to the post office to send a few things to this lovely lady Washing breakfast dishes with a dishcloth hand crocheted by mother (my biggest fan and inspiration)Fritz recovering my sister's lost digital honeymoon pictures from her laptop (have you kissed your computer geek today?) Playing wiffle ball

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-67231378132393098902008-05-05T22:57:00.007-04:002008-05-07T13:35:41.661-04:00

Orange Flower's macro challenge reminded me how much I enjoy taking pictures. Evie and I have been crawling around our yard taking pictures of flowers, bushes, and weeds (Evelyn will correct you should you make the mistake of calling a dandelion a flower), uploaded them, selected a few of our favorites, asked Fritz his opinion, and decided what the heck, why not give it a shot. So, I just

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-53169745784937420862008-05-05T10:18:00.010-04:002008-05-07T13:36:16.398-04:00

Last year around Mother's Day, my sister-in-law hosted another barn sale. One of the things I thought would be adorably cute for an awesome mom, were "You Rock!" pins. Inspired by Evie's love of collecting rocks, we (I) decided to glue some pin backs on rocks we'd collected from our yard to give as gifts/sell. (I used E6000 glue, and did it outside without Evie's help since it smells a bit strong

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-31668693273923262752008-05-05T10:06:00.006-04:002008-05-07T13:36:42.860-04:00

The perfect plates for our Miracle Monday feast. Are you ready? It's only two weeks away!

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-49866592737403929162008-05-01T22:05:00.005-04:002008-05-07T13:37:19.235-04:00

Ignored the computer almost entirely up until an hour and a half agoPut the finishing touches on a LONG overdue swap (I can be a bit of a perfectionist, obviously not of the time management variety)Stained some handles to use for a spring bag pattern Played soccer with the Evie and Noel (Noel didn't know he was playing, or that he lost) Visited my grandfather (who turns 94 in eleven days)Bought

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-267392712393296202008-04-30T13:18:00.004-04:002008-05-07T13:38:22.802-04:00

Found on the ledge outside our bedroom window. Poor egg. I always tell Evie there's no baby bird inside, that's why the mommy bird pushed it out of the nest. It makes me feel better, and she seems to buy it as well. We normally find your typical robin's egg, pretty bluish green. This one is white and a bit bigger. I wonder if it's a Mourning Dove egg. We have a couple of those hanging around

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-48690845020879308052008-04-29T14:37:00.006-04:002008-04-30T08:14:55.433-04:00

I mentioned how I've begun experimenting with my camera a bit more, but I've also begun experimenting more with Photoshop and Fireworks. I used Photoshop in college, but Fritz introduced me to Fireworks, so I've been using that more recently (I find it more forgiving also).I used to take more pictures. 35 mm, that is. Digital had been (until recently) used primarily as a way of documenting the

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-29868242378092539932008-04-28T17:26:00.012-04:002008-04-30T07:53:17.686-04:00

It feels good to be productive, whittling down my to do list finally. Bought a cute little tripod (which E is itching to play with since it resembles some sort of insect with knobby legs) so I'm working on upping the quality of my photos for Etsy. I've been rather dissatisfied with the pictures I've been taking for the most part. Don't get me wrong, I love my new camera, and have thoroughly

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-71332448140756301622008-04-28T17:22:00.002-04:002008-04-30T07:53:40.635-04:00

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-61505724055914797342008-04-26T22:42:00.009-04:002008-04-30T07:54:24.570-04:00

I'm nearly back to my old self, for good or ill. Managed a few moments of sewing, some quick sketches, and I'm putting labels on two bags I'll likely list in Etsy once the sun returns and I'm able to take some proper pictures.A week of rest, a little light yard work, and a visit with a good friend has helped me sort through some of the sludge that's been building up in my head. "Do one thing and

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-2142562195395798442008-04-26T22:33:00.002-04:002008-04-30T07:54:54.354-04:00

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-14253463202650603072008-04-24T23:00:00.004-04:002008-04-30T07:57:34.862-04:00

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-71354705756819237802008-04-23T22:55:00.003-04:002008-05-07T13:39:02.675-04:00

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-41923238781557602812008-04-23T16:44:00.013-04:002008-04-23T22:37:24.335-04:00

So, the wedding is over, and we've nearly recovered. It was BLAST, a super busy, blurry blast. I wish someone would have told me just how fast the actual day was going to go. I felt like I blinked and it was over. I've only been in one other wedding, but I guess it's different when you're the maid (matron, rather) of honor and sister of the bride. My daughter was adorable, my mother beautiful,

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-60228591374170221942008-04-22T11:46:00.003-04:002008-04-22T11:49:24.639-04:00

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-7333109089945886062008-04-21T10:33:00.002-04:002008-04-21T10:34:59.321-04:00

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-62925437673644729552008-04-16T15:41:00.002-04:002008-04-16T15:42:26.122-04:00

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-53074606768192413022008-04-16T09:24:00.004-04:002008-04-16T10:44:47.967-04:00

As if I didn't feel guilty enough about not being able to breastfeed my son.

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-36592993478777470452008-04-15T20:58:00.000-04:002008-04-15T20:59:02.851-04:00

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-11439515508645384142008-04-15T12:12:00.005-04:002008-04-15T13:23:44.547-04:00

The title is a bit of poetry courtesy of E. She has the tendency to speak rather colorfully when she thinks no one is listening.Still attending to last minute wedding details, but at least we managed to sneak away for a few hours last night to see a taping of The Colbert Report. If you saw the show, I was in the middle seat, middle row, up in the balcony, right behind the dude with the funny

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-3395202356376442452008-04-14T14:54:00.002-04:002008-04-14T14:55:17.867-04:00

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-67813245154982025392008-04-14T10:13:00.002-04:002008-04-14T10:15:13.688-04:00

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-50392831583639208732008-04-13T17:55:00.002-04:002008-04-13T17:57:35.176-04:00

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-8459485222585506392008-04-11T23:36:00.007-04:002008-04-12T00:18:10.204-04:00

We are in wedding overload around here... programs, favors, bells, seating charts, up-to-the-minute guest counts, final fittings, etc. Less than a week and life will resume a slightly less frenetic pace. I've been finishing overdue projects when I can steal a moment or two from my children who are just itching to get out and play at the crack of dawn lately.It's my mother's birthday today, smack

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-52776232542972569932008-04-11T23:26:00.004-04:002008-04-11T23:34:09.422-04:00

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-73254880124359179272008-04-10T17:11:00.003-04:002008-04-10T17:13:56.231-04:00

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-91279009944746893352008-04-08T21:45:00.004-04:002008-04-08T21:49:40.200-04:00

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-38561626983275718652008-04-07T11:13:00.002-04:002008-04-07T11:14:08.099-04:00

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-70775463247823900452008-04-06T23:57:00.002-04:002008-04-06T23:58:57.020-04:00

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-52955079146179180452008-04-05T22:43:00.002-04:002008-04-05T22:44:25.168-04:00

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-41651706960648737682008-04-04T12:08:00.001-04:002008-04-04T12:10:14.094-04:00

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-26402724581799639492008-04-04T10:16:00.004-04:002008-04-04T10:28:11.051-04:00

I adore being a Mom. How else would I have come across this song from Yo Gabba Gabba. So dreamy, especially on a gray rainy day.

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-80644420264278698202008-04-03T21:50:00.006-04:002008-04-03T22:00:04.493-04:00

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-89073455664844688812008-04-03T10:53:00.008-04:002008-04-03T22:00:51.683-04:00

Came across Orange Flower's 30 day macro photo challenge, by way of tutti fruiti. Since "macro" is my favorite function on my camera, and this photo a day requires no mailing, deadlines, or letting down of anyone aside from myself (or my faithful readers). I thought I'd give it a shot. An exercise in discipline as well, since it's all to easy for me to put things off till tomorrow. No surprise

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-12707392628579014572008-03-28T21:49:00.008-04:002008-04-03T22:01:46.709-04:00

Our bookshelves are filled with all sorts of books, ranging from Tolkien's complete works to Interior Alchemy, and just about anything you could think of in between (including a 1895 edition of Walker's Rhyming Dictionary, Chuck Dugan is AWOL , The Adventures of Charley Tooth and Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus to name a few of my favorites) . Stacked somewhere between the Maria Callas

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-30218003111405312142008-03-28T16:38:00.011-04:002008-04-03T22:03:09.913-04:00

Alright, so my tutorial is posted. The difficulty and delay I experienced had nothing to do with getting it done; I finished it almost immediately. The problem lay in technical difficulties I was having with Blogger and my new(ish) laptop. The perks of having a tech-savvy husband are too numerous to count, but, how can I put this delicately... the "drawbacks" of having two small children is his

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-84821986904633489342008-03-27T21:51:00.001-04:002008-03-27T21:54:22.249-04:00

Alright... here we go. So, bags themselves are for the most part easy enough to make. For a simple bag, you 1) start with two identically-sized fabrics sewn into (approximately) a pillowcase, 2) leave a small opening on one side of the lining, 3) stitch the right sides together around the top, and 4) pull it all through the opening, and there you have it, a "bag". With a beautiful or even just

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-61894401468016016882008-03-20T14:31:00.011-04:002008-03-22T09:34:24.348-04:00

Sometimes it only takes a bit of rain to get me down, other times it's nothing at all. In an attempt to shake off the mean reds, here are a few things that have me smiling today and lately:The return of our beloved chipmunk "Chip"Forcing forsythia in my living roomThe yummy dinner my mother and I made on Sunday (it's so much nicer to cook with someone)Mail from good friends (especially when it's

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-71621964913581047002008-03-17T09:06:00.015-04:002008-03-22T09:43:21.556-04:00

To quote my daughter, "Is today like Valentine's Day? Or do I get presents like Christmas?". Um... neither, I think.I love this song. I can remember being a little girl, listening to my grandfather talk about the fighting in Belfast: the curfews, laying down in the aisle of the trolley with his mother on top of him. He lived in Belfast during the original partitioning, right near Queen's

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-55074009905268302092008-03-16T11:49:00.006-04:002008-03-22T09:37:55.860-04:00

I finally took a few pictures of the clutch I put together for my sister's wedding. She's somewhat simple and her dress is absolutely gorgeous, so I didn't want anything too frou-frou to compete with her on the big day. Just something sweet and sentimental so this is what I came up with. My mother had given me her wedding gown to deconstruct as I saw fit, but I just couldn't bring myself to cut

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-59808012148839970262008-03-12T16:33:00.006-04:002008-03-17T13:47:27.048-04:00

While I was perusing a fantastic (new to me) blog, I laughed out loud when I read how the author would never again make another diaper bag. Having two children and making myself two diaper bags, I have sworn to never again make one as well. Should I (gulp) or anyone I know become pregnant, I will definitely be purchasing this one instead. That being said, I've been busily working on a bag and

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4477562686714328114.post-84184595323396498812008-03-12T12:40:00.006-04:002008-03-12T15:00:34.760-04:00

Here it is, (gulp) my "studio". I know, it's not much to look at, but it's space belonging to me alone so I think it's divine. It's located just off our "family room", between the "powder room" and "laundry room". In other words, smack dab in the middle of my basement. We are coming up on four years in our home and have tackled nearly every room, saving the most expensive (kitchen and bath) and

Murrayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13943014606698268945noreply@blogger.com6