going shopping

Check out MY etsy store!

I have cards and burp cloths for sale.

It's Christmas at the Calhoun's

The tree is up, the inside is festive with decorations, and the bright lights outside add the extra touch of the Holidays!  


It has always been a tradition to go as a family during Thanksgiving weekend to hunt for the perfect tree for the house.  This year we met at David and Abby's and ventured out to a tree farm out near Boring.  We have been there the last few years and have always left with the perfect tree.  It's funny how each year we can say.... "That's the perfect one" or "This is the best tree ever".  Today we had three trees to hunt for... my mom's house, Abby and David, and Scott and Holly!  We found three perfect (for this year) trees!

(holiday)playlist

My HOLIDAY playlist:
1.  It Came Upon A Midnight Clear- MercyMe
2.  N'SYNC - Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays
3.  New Kids on the Block- Funky Funky Christmas
4.  Carrie Underwood- Last Christmas
5.  Mariah Carey- All I Want For Christmas
6.  Denetria Champ - O Holy Night
7.  Chris Brown- This Christmas
8.  Kelly Willard- O Come All Ye Faithful
9.  Colbie Caillat - Mistletoe
10. Christian Aguilera- Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

giving thanks

I could not be more thankful for such an amazing family.  It seems that each year we grow closer together and our relationships with one another become more special and personalized.

My mom is the strongest, most helpful and inspirational women I know.  There is not a day that goes by that she does not say "I love you" or ask me "How I am doing".  She gets me through the toughest times and supports me in every decision I make.

My sister, Abby, is my best friend.  Growing up she was who I wanted to be.  Abby has never let me down and always offers advice and guidance when I am stuck in a hole.  Without her I am not sure where I would be.  She kept my in style with upcoming fashion and gave me advice as I made my way through college.  Now as we have gotten older we rely on each other for just about everything.

My brother, Scott, is the humor and comedy that makes each of us laugh.  Growing up Scott was the man of the house, we had our fights; however, I knew that he was my security and protection.  To this day, Scott creates excitement, chaos, and laughter every time he enters a room.  His personality makes him so enjoyable to be around.

My brother-in-law, David, is the go-to-guy.  There is not a problem David can't solve.  Every year that David and Abby spend together, David and I grow closer together.  We spend time together, have good conversation and I know that David would do anything for me to help, keep my safe, and take care of every problem that I have.

Holly, my sister-in-law, has been a great addition to the family.  Holly creates a positive vibe and energy as she walks into a room, sincerely cares about individuals, and loves and respects my brother deeply.

James, my nephew, has been the best part about my year.  I could not be more thankful for him.  Being an aunt is everything and more than I could expect and I enjoy spending each and every day with James.  Watching him every moment grow and develop into a human has been so special.  I remember being with him when he was two weeks old and all he did was sleep and lay around.  Now at 5 months (almost), he giggles, is more stable on his own, and is aware of what is going on around him.  I look forward to being able to watch him grow as baby to a toodler and than onto a big boy.  He means the world to me.

Pistachio Cheese Log

It's that time of the week... RECIPE WEDNESDAY.

Pistachio Covered Cheese Log

1 bar cream cheese, room temperature

1 cup coarsely chopped white cheddar cheese

1 tablespoon dijon mustard

1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce

Salt and Pepper

1 cup pistachio nuts, coarsely chopped

In a medium bowl, using an electric mixer, beat cream cheese, cheddar, Dijon, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined; season with salt and pepper.  Cover and refrigerate until slightly firm, 1 to 2 hours.

Transfer cheese mixture to a piece of waxed paper; using paper, shape into a 6-in log.  Cover with pistachios, pressing to adhere.  Wrap log in a fresh piece of waxed paper; chill until firm, 1-2 hours (or overnight).

Serve with crackers.

(my)own: craft corner

I have created my own craft corner at my house.  It is not exactly what I would picture for the future craft room but it will do for now.  I love having everything there... ready for every crafty minute!

Cupcakes

For sale on Etsy at MY SHOP!

JT

Ooo.... how I love thee....

A Brisk Morning

Sausage and Spinach Soup

Sausage and Spinach Soup

10 oz  sweet turkey Italian sausage


1  c   prechopped onion

2  t   bottled minced garlic


4  oz  water

1  (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained


1  (14.5-ounce) can organic stewed tomatoes, undrained 

1  (14-ounce) can fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth

2  c   baby spinach


1  T   chopped fresh basil

2  t   chopped fresh oregano

2  T   grated fresh Romano cheese

Remove casings from sausage. Cook sausage in a large saucepan coated with cooking spray over high heat until browned, stirring to crumble. Add onion and 2 teaspoons garlic to pan; cook for 2 minutes. Stir in 1/2 cup water, beans, tomatoes, and broth. Cover and bring to a boil. Uncover and cook for 3 minutes or until slightly thick. Remove from heat, and stir in spinach, basil, and oregano. Ladle 1 1/2 cups soup into each of 4 bowls, and sprinkle each serving with 1 1/2 teaspoons cheese.

For more good soup recipes check out Cooking Light

CuttleBug

My next purchase is The CuttleBug.  I am so excited.... it can add so much look to a handmade card!

{MY} etsy store

5-pack, Holiday Greeting Cards

It's my very own store on Etsy.com
Check it out.... so excited!!! 

Oh Happy Day

a friend's in town

My best friend is coming to visit me.  I can't wait.  I have been looking forward to this all week and it's finally here.  It's kind of funny.... you know when you were really young and you are looking forward to something so bad, counting down the days and hours.... well that's find of how I have felt all week.  We get to spend the day together, are going to a card making class tonight (Holiday Cards), and having a sleep over just like we did in college on a daily basis.  We have the best time together and I am looking forward to doing what we love together!

Grocery Totes

The Craft Pantry

Sandbag Design

HeatherInk

Holiday Planner

I found this Holiday Planner on Etsy.  It is such a great way to stay organized throughout the Holiday season.  With this 12 page planner you are able to record gifts bought and for whom, plan meals, make shopping lists, and also make note of parties, outings, and events on the calendars during the holiday season.

Here are the 12 pages included in the Holiday notebook...

Cover, November Calendar, December Calendar, Holiday Budget

Christmas Cards List, Gift List, Meal Planner, and Holiday Recipes

Shopping List, To Do List, Party Guest List, and Notes

Slipper Season

PDX: 5 great eateries

Casa Del Matador

Recommendations: Texas Style Nachos, Rex-Mex Spring Rolls, Roasted Tomato Chicken Soup

Laurelwood Brewpub

Recommendations: House-made Flatbread, Garlic Fries, House-made Veggie Burger, Zet Sandwich

The Observatory

Recommendations: Tomato-Red Pepper Bisque, Oregano Fry Bread, Garlic-Parmesan Rosemary Fries, Roasted Red Pepper and Parmesan Salad 

McMenamins

Recommendations: Ruby Ale, Turkey Sandwich, Secret Garden Veggie Pizza, Fresh-Cut Fries

Serrato
Recommendations: Hand-Cut Pommes Frites, Pizza Del Giorno, Simple Baby Greens

Portland has a huge selection of places to din and most have delicious, tasty food.  Prices are affordable, most restaurants offer a happy hour, and the atmosphere is enjoyable and relaxing.  I have been out to a lot of places in Portland and these are some of my favorite.  If you haven't been yet, check them out!  Every place is unique in it's own way making each outing different and fun.

a{GOOD}friend

Sometimes it's hard to come across a sincere friendship.  I have a few friends that are "always count on me" friends.... they leave my side.  Last night I got the opportunity to spend some quality time with a great friend.  We have been friends since freshman year of high school and our relationship continues to strengthen each and every day.  We make a point to see each other often, have accountability among each other, serve together, and have committed to one another to be truthful, honest, and open.  It has been so exciting to watch our friendship continue to strengthen at every outing and get together.  I continue to look forward to this relationship and the growth it has.

Girl's (And James) Weekend

Off to the beach with my sister, mom, and James!  Looking forward to a relaxing weekend with them.  We always have a great time together and enjoy eachother's company.  

Spiced Cake

I love Smitten Kitchen.  Recently there was a post for a Spiced Applesauce Cake.  What a perfect fall treat.  It is light enough to be served at brunch.  I will definitely be trying this cake soon!

Countdown

It's time to get into the holiday spirit.  It will be approaching faster than we know it!  I am looking forward to this time of year, as always.  Soon the stores are filled with holiday decor, u-cut tree farms open, homes are lit with strings of colorful lights, and the aroma of peppermint and cinnamon fill the air. It is a wonderful time of year to spend with family and friends.

A Good Book

I am currently reading The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson.  It took me a while to get started because the book didn't grab me right away.  However, I think it's about to get real good!  

This time of year is the best time to find a good read and cozy up on the couch with a warm blanket. 

{2011}calendars

In less than (TWO) months we will be starting a new year.  I am in need of new calendar.... I found a ton on Etsy.  Here are a few of them...