XOXO KAE

For the one I love

2011-02-12T12:16:00.000-08:00

This is what I made for Dave for Valentine's Day. A quote from his favorite song, or at least the one he sings most. I was inspired by this. It only took me a year to get around to it. They will eventually hang over our bed... but we're waiting until we're no longer renting. So, for now, on the computer desk they will stay. Happy Heart Day, my love!

Resolution 2011 and the Resulting Wanting

2011-02-02T10:03:00.000-08:00

2011 is the year I will buy nothing new for myself. The whole year. Nothing new. I'll thrift it or make it. My friend Shona had the best reaction, "that just sounds punitive." Of course, that's not my intent. I'm trying to enjoy what I have, be creative in how I use it, and be a lot less of a wanting consumer. We'll see how that works out.

Of course, it's two minutes into February and I already have a list of things I'll buy come 1/1/2012. This tops the list. No way I'm trying to make a leather bag. But, I would love to try to recreate the dress below. Because, let's face it, even without my purchasing moratorium in effect, I'd never spend the $478.

However, first on my list of things to make is a version of the J Brand twill pants below. I did actually buy these for myself for my birthday (2010) but had to return them due to fit issues (too much a** fabric and tight calves).

After seeing the plans of this inventive new blogger, I've decided to give it a go. She's making the Cargo Skinny Pants from a Burda pattern. I'm going to try using Simplicity 2315 in a navy stretch twill (unless I can find some black or deep charcoal first), but I plan to use her knee chevrons, very cool. I might skip the welt pockets and zippers, at least the first time around. Wish me luck!

World's Greatest Cookies

2011-02-01T10:59:00.000-08:00

We can't stop making these. I, too, am sold. Okay, they aren't health food, but using whole wheat flour makes my heart smile.

When making, definitely use the cold butter. When you first mix the cold butter and sugar together, they won't really cream. I still have marble-sized butter lumps until I add the the first egg. Then it all starts to cream together.

No matter how little time you let these puppies bake, you'll get a hard cookie once they cool. We cook them at 16 minutes, eight on the top rack and eight on the bottom, just as Molly suggests. But, honestly, these are best just a bit over done. Something kind of caramelizes and the flavor is fabulous. Try and enjoy!

Jenny says water and a timer

2010-10-07T18:57:00.000-07:00

We'll see if it works.

Operation Procrastination officially ends!

2010-04-30T12:11:00.000-07:00

The State Fair Frock Grosgrain Giveaway
has inspired me. I'm not likely to win it, but damn if I won't find a way to make it. Too flippin' cute!

Thefted Valentine's Day Idea

2010-02-13T13:06:00.000-08:00

Heart bracelets for the girls.

And arrow bracelets for the boys! Thank you, Katie.

Best French Toast, EVER.

2009-08-25T14:18:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I made Molly Wizenburg's French Toast recipe from her book, A Homemade Life. (Tania as my witness.) It was the best. Make some. Now.

Hello, blog.

2009-06-09T08:54:00.001-07:00

I had the best lunch today. It was also the least healthy. I love you, Heidelburg Bakery! (and Tania!)