Freebie Friday: Upcycled T-shirt Tote Tutorial

My sister and I love, love, LOVE to brainstorm. Whether it's a new little something to sew, products to source, or packaging, she has the eye for design, an ear to listen, and one heck of a contributing voice! Out of one of those sessions comes this fun, cheap, and easy DIY project. Turn any old t-shirt into an easy tote bag - perfect for the beach, playground, or park. I don't have much experience in pattern making, so I'll do my best to walk you through the tutorial...please ask questions if something's unclear. Enjoy :o)





Above, you'll see the basic instructions for my t-shirt tote bag. Below, I've listed a few extra details I've done to jazz up my finished tote (top image.)


Have you used this tute to make a tote of your own? I'd love to see your finished product! Email me at reevetobe{at}gmail{dot}com and I'll happily share your photos with the world!

xo,
Evelyn

p.s. This tutorial + pattern are for your personal use only, please. Share and share alike, but please give me credit when reposting!

It Whispers...So Listen Closely.

{CLICK HERE TO MAKE A DONATION}

Sorry folks. No Good Morning Ohio post today...instead, I'm going to talk about something a lot more serious and a lot more personal. Yesterday, my family found out that my step-mom has ovarian cancer. She had surgery yesterday and is recovering now. She had a full hysterectomy, had most of her large intestine and some of her small intestine removed. She's going to need chemo, but we won't know what kind or for how long or any of the details until her results come back from the Pathologist. She'll be there at least a week.

All of this...this bullshit cancer affecting another amazing person in my life. It makes me so angry and sad and scared. Honestly, I didn't know very much about ovarian cancer until yesterday. In my attempt to understand the disease my step-mom is fighting, I did what any technologically-savvy person would do. I Googled it. Did you know that there are signs to look for? Signs of early detection?

So today, for yourself and for every woman you love, I'm going to share those early warning signs with you. Please take the time to read this + share it -- email it, tweet it, whatever. If we can arm ourselves with knowledge, maybe we can prevent more women from having to go through what my step-mom is going through right now. 

The most important thing to know about ovarian cancer is that there are signs...but they aren't obvious. They say ovarian cancer whispers...so we need to listen very closely. There is no annual screening test and it's the most deadly of the female cancers. The only way it can be detected is through an annual Gynecological exam -- I implore you to make an appointment NOW if you haven't been in the last year. 

As taken from the Lilies of the Valley Ovarian Support & Awareness Group in Tennessee:

There is NO SCREENING TEST for ovarian cancer. 
The best tool we have for early diagnosis is awareness of symptoms.  Symptoms represent a significant change in the body, and they are persistent, lasting almost daily for more than a few weeks. 

---

Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

(Gynecologic Cancer Foundation Consensus Statement)

Historically ovarian cancer was called the "silent killer" because symptoms were not thought to develop until the chance of cure was poor. However, recent studies have shown this term is untrue and that the following symptoms are much more likely to occur in women with ovarian cancer than women in the general population^1,2.

These symptoms include:

• Bloating
• Pelvic or abdominal pain
• Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
  
• Urinary symptoms (urgency or frequency)

Women with ovarian cancer report that symptoms are persistent and represent a change from normal for their bodies. The frequency and/or number of such symptoms are key factors in the diagnosis of ovarian cancer³. Several studies show that even early stage ovarian cancer can produce these symptoms^2-6.

Women who have these symptoms almost daily for more than a few weeks should see their doctor, preferably a gynecologist. Prompt medical evaluation may lead to detection at the earliest possible stage of the disease. Early stage diagnosis is associated with an improved prognosis.

Several other symptoms have been commonly reported by women with ovarian cancer^2-5. These symptoms include fatigue, indigestion, back pain, pain with intercourse, constipation and menstrual irregularities. However, these other symptoms are not as useful in identifying ovarian cancer because they are also found in equal frequency in women in the general population who do not have ovarian cancer¹.

 
References

1. Goff BA, Mandel LS, Melancon CH, Muntz HG. Frequency of symptoms of ovarian cancer in women presenting to primary care. JAMA 2004;291:2705-12. Level II-2
2. Olson SH, Mignone L, Nakaraseive C,, Caputo TA, Barakat RR, Harlap S. Symptoms of ovarian cancer. Obstet Gynecol 2001;98:212-7. Level II-2
3. Goff BA, Mandel L, Muntz HG, Melancon CH. Ovarian carcinoma diagnosis: results of a national ovarian cancer survey. Cancer 2000;89:2068-75. Level III
4. Vine MF, Ness RB, Calingaert B, Schildkraut JM, Berchuck A. Types and duration of symptoms prior to diagnosis of invasive or borderline ovarian tumor. Gynecol Oncol 2001;83:466-71. Level III
5. Yawn BP, Barrette, BA, Wollan, PC. Ovarian cancer: the neglected diagnosis. Mayo Clin Proc 2004;79:1277-1282. Level III
6. Goff BA, Mandel L, Drescher CW, Urban N, Gough S, Schurman K, Patras J. Mahony BS, Anderson M. Development of an ovarian cancer symptom index. Cancer 2007;109:221-7. Level II-2

---

THERE IS NO SCREENING TEST FOR OVARIAN CANCER; THEREFORE THE BEST TOOL WE HAVE FOR EARLY DETECTION IS AWARENESS OF SYMPTOMS.

---

RISK FACTORS INCLUDE:

• Increasing age
• Family history of ovarian, breast, colon, prostate, endometrial or pancreatic cancer (consider genetic counseling)
• Infertility/low number of children
• Personal cancer history
  

Again, please share this information with a woman today, whether it be family, friend, co-worker or stranger. Rise above your ordinary interactions with the Internet today. Do something great. Sharing this information might help someone. It might save someone's life.


Thank you,
Evelyn

Wanted on Wednesday: Let There Be (Mason Jar) Light!

{top images: Martha Stewart; bottom left: Re-Nest; bottom right HGTV}

Words cannot explain how much I adore DIY mason jar lanterns. I especially love the look of tiny glass jars hanging low from a patio umbrella -- that could be a great way to upcycle old jam jars, don't you think?

Guest Blogger...Jen of Little Bean Embroidery!

{little bean embroidery}

Jen and I met through the wonderful world of blogging and I knew right away that she'd have great things to share with us on what it's like to be a mom, a blogger, crafter, and business owner...trust me, she's cut from the same cloth as so many of us! Without further ado, please welcome Jen of Little Bean Embroidery!

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When Evelyn asked me to be a guest blogger… my response?

Oh My Word!   How exciting ;)

It’s so nice when people are interested in you and your story.

I’m Jen.  I live in central Ohio (born & raised!)  I just turned 31. I sew. I embroider. I craft. I take pictures. I scrapbook. I cook. I bake. (I’m obsessed with decorated sugar cookies at the moment.) I jog. I blog. I listen to music. I have been married to my high school sweetheart for almost 9 years now.  We have 2 little ones… who maybe shouldn’t be called little anymore. Lilly is newly 6, and Cohen is even newer to being 3.

When people ask me what I do, you know… as in “Do you work?”, I always struggle with my answer.  “Well… I used to teach, before Lilly (whose full name is Lillian) was born. I’ve been home since. And I have a little embroidery business.  So I don’t really work…but I do.”

So, the answer is yes.  I do work.

I’m a mom and CEO of Little Bean Embroidery.

CEO sounds so fancy doesn’t it? 

Balance is tricky.  I don’t even know if I call it balance as much as…‘this little creative outlet that keeps me somewhat sane and feeling important’. While I am a mommy first and 24/7, I use my nights and weekends to work on embroidery orders for customers. I don’t have an ‘order’ form or instant ‘add to cart’ buttons on my site. This is partially because I built LBE’s website on my own (and I don’t know how to add it) and mostly because I love having the interaction with each individual customer via email. I want the colors, fonts, designs… everything, to be just what the customer wants! Sometimes it only takes 2 emails, sometimes 10.  I’ve even been called a perfectionist by some (I’d use other words, but ‘perfectionist’ sounds so pleasant.)   

I want each order to be custom made with love. I handwrite my receipts. I tie a little business card on each order. I can wrap your gift, attach a gift card (if you’d like), and even mail it right to the recipient (if you wish). I strive to give the boutique experience, but from the comfort of your home. Each order is as if I were gifting it myself…and remember, I am picky.  I love seeing all the great names, classic and unique, come through on orders.  I’m a little infatuated with names and would have 10 kids just to name them all. Well, not really, but maybe someone will let me name some of their kids?

Speaking of kids. I’m tired. At the end of the day, sometimes I’m excited to work on some embroidery!  Some days I look forward to my ‘alone’ time with my machine, a spool (or 3) of fun colored thread, and some cute baby items (or a tote and an apron). Sometimes I’m just looking forward to sitting on the couch with my hubby, our favorite show, and some ice cream. 

Motivation. Getting to embroider adorable little creations that become memorable gifts is really all the motivation I need. Each time I get an email, it’s like opening a present to see what I get to make next! Then, to get compliments…that’s the best. Who doesn’t need a warm fuzzy now and then? And it’s nice to have that extra LBE checkbook…you know…the one that pays for soccer, and a ($16!) kindergarten (!) yearbook, and the occasional phone bill, or trip to the grocery store if (or rather, when) the personal funds are low. 

LBE has a blog. Nothing over the top, just enough to keep Little Beaners up to speed with new items, designs, etc… And I very recently just jumped on the Facebook and Twitter bandwagon all for the sake of networking. Affordable networking. I have a personal blog as well (which I enjoy writing on very much!) and I follow over 500 blogs (via bloglines). Did I just admit that? Yes, I did. 

Little Bean holds an occasional raffle or drawing directly on the blog itself, so those who follow the LBE blog and/or FB will be in the loop of any fun things going on.  Besides that, Little Bean helps to support our community (and beyond) by donating gift certificates to help raise money for numerous causes, such as the local pre-school program, families dealing with cancer, CureDuchenne, Haitian relief and more.

Evelyn, thank you so much for asking me to be part of your amazing blog. I am honored.  I look forward to meeting more guest bloggers, reading more Good Morning Ohio!, and enjoying all the other amazing inspiring things you share with us!

Jen



website: www.littlebeanembroidery.com
LBE blog: littlebeanembroidery.blogspot.com
personal blog: itsmejen.blogspot.com
twitter & facebook

{Jen: You're so very welcome! Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to share some special insights with the OMW! readers. I wish you nothing but the best! O-H!}

list fourteen: weaknesses

{fairchild art via weblog boredom}

It's been crazy busy around here with the launch of my online shop Hello Magpie last Thursday, and what a grand opening it was! A resounding first impression made upon so many folks. Thanks for talking the time to give me your feedback + suggestions. I appreciate it all so much. Can't wait to see what the future holds!

Boy, do I have a treat for you tomorrow, folks...my first guest blogger! She's an Ohio gal + a small business owner, so please do pop on over and show her a warm welcome! I won't say any more...you'll just have to come and learn all about her tomorrow. How exciting!!

Also up on the agenda for the week...recaulking the bathtub! Boo! This should be an adventure...I think I may even post the 'before' photos, if you promise not to laugh. It's disgusting. Why I've lived with it for this long is beyond me. There's just something about the layout of the bathroom that doesn't prevent the best air flow and it takes ages to dry (hence the crazy-disgusting moldering caulk.) Super Eve to the rescue! It's the least I can do for our happy household...Bubs has weeded the entire yard, front + back, without so much as a peep, bless him. So, anyway, you have all that to look forward to (maybe next week? Hard to say how long it'll take me!)

And now for today's list no. fourteen: the weaknesses. This list is all about my favorite indulgences and those things which make my knees weak. The list is small, but mighty. How does your list compare to mine?

1. Shoe shopping. Even if I don't actually buy anything, just trying on shoes makes me ridiculously happy.

2. Sun-kissed skin. Fake or real, I like a healthy sun-kissed glow to skin in general, but especially on my skin. Fair just doesn't fare. It pales in comparison. OK, I'll stop...

3. Sweets. Any kind will do. Gummy anything, Swedish Fish, lollies, popsicles, ice cream, cakes, cookies, chocolate. Nothing, not even maple-flavored doughnuts, are safe around me. How I'd love to be one of those people who thinks that fruit is "sweet enough". Sure, it's sweet enough to be a topping on something really awesome, but it's hard to hold a candle to a Rice Krispies treat!

4. A well-groomed man. Throw a spritz or two of cologne into the mix and my heart goes a-flutter. I'm not saying uber groomed, however. I love a bit of stubble. Not too much, not too little. A fresh hair cut, trimmed nails and pearly whites are par for the course, but when you take the time to put on some (non-floral scented) lotion? A man after my own heart.

5. Blended iced coffee drinks. It doesn't have to be Starbucks for me to want to indulge in the frothy, creamy deliciousness that is a blended iced coffee drink. Caramel, mocha, vanilla, hazelnut? Yes, please.

6. Animals. I love animals, but especially love little fuzzy pet-type critters like cats + dogs. Visiting the animal shelter and the occasional pet store to give some cuddles to a kitty or mutt makes me happier than I can explain. I do draw the line at squirrels who dig up my plants and eat my veggies and my neighbors' dog, who should be classified as some otherworldly creature it is so ill-tempered. Poor thing, it's not even the dog's fault...I should say instead that I despise bad pet parents of all varieties. Just walk your dog every day and don't let it out to bark incessantly at 4 a.m...(yes, we notice.)

7. Old junk. Books, wood spools, baubles, tchotchkes, trinkets, art work...I love sifting and scouring through antique shops, estate auctions, and garage sales. I find items from other eras endlessly fascinating. Ancient books with hand-gilded leather covers, metal wire baskets, and milk glass anything are tried-and-true favies.

8. Miniature food. This has to have a separate category than sweets, but of course, it's colossal when a treat is both bite-sized AND sweet. I don't know where it comes from, but I absolutely adore bite-sized foodstuffs. Raiding my mom's kitchen after one of her tea parties makes for a great day -- teeny tiny salad sandwiches, petit fours, miniature fruit tarts, soup shooters, and even baby carrots in Chinese take-away. Love 'em all!

Freebie Friday: Yogurt + Berry Ice Pops

{martha stewart}

I need to come clean about something...and that something is my insatiable sweet tooth. This month, I've single-handedly polished off two containers of Edy's Slow Churned and now I'm onto a pint of Haagen Dasz peach fro yo. Seriously, I'm out of control! For the sake of argument, I'm blaming stress...ahem.

The point of it is this: I need a healthier (not to mention cheaper) substitution and fast! (Sure, I could just give it up, but where's the fun in that?!) Somewhere in a recent issue of Body + Soul magazine, they showed perfectly delectable homemade berry fro yo pops. Alas, I can't track down that exact recipe, but I did find two pretty rockin' replacements. I don't have a mold, though, so I may have to get a little creative in that department whilst keeping eyes peeled at the thrift store. I can't wait to give these a try!

1. Tie Dye Pops

2. Raspberry Yogurt Ice Pops

Anyone ever made something like these frozen yogurt pops before? Any advice? I'm also on the look-out for old-fashioned frozen pudding pops recipe a la Bill Cosby. Hook a girl up if you know a good one!

Good Morning Ohio: Hello Magpie

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Good morning Columbus's (and my) own,

Hello Magpie!

Today's the day...I am officially releasing Hello Magpie to the world! It's been an amazing journey up to this point and it's only the beginning. Thank you to all of you who have encouraged me to lose fear, pursue my dreams, and enthusiastically encouraged my passions. From my heart, my sincerest thanks.


What started years ago as a simple dream of entrepreneurship has grown into Hello Magpie, an online retail shop specializing in functional, practical, durable and beautiful products for every day. Each product is carefully chosen to become part of our growing collection, each with a purpose. For some, it is the material choice, like organic cotton. For others, it's durability, which will extend a product's life cycle (or prolong how long it may take to get to a land fill.) Let's call it getting back to good, old-fashioned basics (and then some.) Some of our products, like our hand-crank rotary beater, have a classic vintage-meets-modern design. Others, like our recycled cotton lunch totes are fashion-forward and endlessly customizable (colorful permanent markers + doodles = a one-of-a-kind lunch tote!)

Alongside our shop is our Hello Magpie Etsy shop, which features handmade items (like the best darn cotton + jute dish scrubbie you'll ever use) and a hand-picked selection of vintage pieces chock full o' character. Looking for a little "spoil me" gift? How about organic bath fizzy bombs? Look no further than our organic Spring Mix Bath Bonbons, which are handmade in small batches with essential oils and homegrown + dried flower petals. The Etsy shop is ever-changing so check back often for all the latest + greatest.

Personally, I believe that we each have the opportunity to redefine the norm by which we live. I challenge and encourage you all to put conscious thought into every purchase, every product. Ask yourself how it can benefit your life. Will it help support ecologically-responsible living? Is it reusable? Safe? Practical? Local? National? Handmade? It's my goal for Hello Magpie to help find the answer to some of those questions and make living as a conscious consumer a little easier (and a bit more fun.)

Here's to the future + HAPPY 40th EARTH DAY!

xo,
Evelyn

P.S. Click here to subscribe to the Hello Magpie newsletter!

Wanted on Wednesday: Plantation Shutters

 Oh how I miss the plantation shutters we had in our room in Jamaica. Even before then, I had nothing short of a huge obsession with plantation shutters. They are just so...classic. And functional. And cool. To me,shutters are the perfect window covering. I want them everywhere -- living room? Definitely. Bedroom? Of course. Dining room over the sliding glass doors? Well duh! The faux wood blinds + drapery combos we have now are sufficient (and look pretty snazzy, all things considered), but bright white plantation shutters are the stuff of dreams...but I'd take them in this soft driftwood gray, too. Aren't they gorgeous?

{1.mine, 2. shutterfly fabulous, 3. country living, 4. niche blinds}

A Beautiful Life

{flickr}

Today's pretty special for me, as you get to take a peek at my beautiful life over at Behind the Red Door. Toni was kind enough to share a few very special photos of mine with the whole world, as part of her Beautiful Life photo mash-up. I implore you to take a few minutes out of  your day to visit the series photos, read their notes, and see beauty through the eyes of strangers.

list thirteen: if I were a...

 {Save the Sea Turtles}

· If I were a season I would be Spring - full of renewal, growth, and sunshine.

· If I were a month, I'd be September - warm, comfortable, and relaxed.

· If I were a day of the week, I’d be Sunday.

· If I were a time of day, I'd be twilight - it's what I call "blue" outside. It's my favorite.

· If I were a planet, I'd be the sun.

· If I were a sea animal, I'd be a sea turtle.

· If I were a bird, I'd be a cardinal - for their  beautiful song.

· If I were a direction, I’d be east - where the sun rises and new days begin.

· If I were a piece of furniture, I’d be an old, loved farmhouse table.

· If I were a liquid, I’d be iced tea - classic & refreshing.

· If I were a gemstone, I’d be citrine - yellow-gold and unique.

· If I were a tree, I’d be a mighty oak.

· If I were a tool, I’d be Aleen's Craft Glue (my kinda tool.)

· If I were a flower, I’d be magnolia.

· If I were a kind of weather, I’d be blue-skied.

· If I were a musical instrument, I’d be an acoustic guitar.

· If I were a color, I’d be glasz.

· If I were a fruit, I’d be a ruby red grapefruit - a little sweet and a little tart.

· If I were a sound, I’d be a giggle.

· If I were a food, I’d be bruschetta.

· If I were a dessert, I'd be English Summer Pudding.

· If I were a place, I’d be an island.

· If I were a material, I'd be wool - durable, practical & versatile.

· If I were a taste, I’d be balanced.

· If I were a scent, I’d be clean.

· If I were an object, I'd be treasured.

· If I were a body part, I’d be the heart.

· If I were a song, I’d be anything by Glenn Miller.

· If I were a pair of shoes, I'd be flip flops.

Freebie Friday: A Darn Good Lesson

{LIFE via Google}

Yep. That was a pun. Today's freebie is a lesson on how to darn. Aren't you excited?! For years I was fascinated with the seemingly antiquated necessity to darn things, especially socks. I mean...socks. If they get a hole, you buy a new package and toss the old ones, right? Not necessarily. Now those holey items may be given a bit more life, thanks to Penny Sanford's handy dandy darning instructions. Now that I grasp the process of darning,  I finally get to use my grandmother's old darning eggs! Once a favorite to play with (my grandma's sewing room was full of mystery and imagination and was one of my favorite play places), those darning eggs are living in my office, upon a shelf, inside the basket I wove on my honeymoon in Jamaica. My grandma would love that.

So here you go. A quick + dirty guide to darning. Give it a go before you toss out that old favorite!

And in case you'd like one more tutorial, Craftzine offers a pretty good one, too (with great photos for darning things other than socks.)

Good Morning Ohio: Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream

{top + bottom right: Element -- yet another amazing Ohio company!}
{bottom left: Jeni's/Salty Caramel}
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 Good morning to Columbus's own

Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream!

If you've been reading my blog for any length of time, you've probably noted my affinity (read: obsession) for ice cream. Jeni's Salty Caramel + Dark Chocolate all at the same time, to be precise. Or an ice cream sandwich. Or perhaps a delectable Ohio berry sorbet...you get where I'm going with this, right?

Jeni's Splended Ice Cream is exactly that: splendid. For me, a visit to my neighborhood Short North Jeni's is a visceral experience, playing on all the senses. The spickety, cheerful atmosphere -- complete with milk bottle light fixtures -- plays to my inner child. The staff is always friendly and the ice cream. Oh, the ice cream. Words simply cannot do it justice. Sourced from local farms, the ingredients which make up Jeni's Ice Cream's are, as they eloquently put it, "Ohio Love You is the whole story...Pasture to table, cow to cone." Not only are local ingredients celebrated, the products of any given growing season are reflected in the flavors offered. Jeni's redefines what 'fresh' means. 

"Cow to Cone is about flavor. Our pasture-raised, gently pasteurized,

local cream is exquisitely sweet and creamy - and that's what it's all about."

- Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream

 

Did I mention the cucumber water for palate cleansing (or a quick refresher after a long bike ride?) From the DRY Soda to the gelato spoons, the hand-scrawled menu to the uber-creative flavors inspired by our beloved home state of Ohio, it's safe to say that I could sustain a happy life on Jeni's alone. 

Something you may or may not know about Jeni's: It's family-owned! Jeni Britton Bauer, along with husband Charly Bauer,  co-founded the company in 2002 and Charly's brother Tom Bauer became a partner one year later. This trio, together with a small, super-savvy team, create every bit of ice cream for all of the Jeni's shops in Columbus and every delivered pint. Way to go Team Jeni's!

For those of us not lucky enough to live in central Ohio, never fear! Jeni's Splendid is sweeping the nation and being sold all over the country (and online!) Reward yourself. You deserve it!

Don't forget to check out Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream in Columbus's North Market, Short North, Bexley, Grandview, and Dublin, Ohio locations, their official website and blog Salty Caramel.

Wanted on Wednesday: Girl Power

 

{img}

I can admit it. I haven't but just a couple super close female friends. Sometimes, it really bums me out, not being able to both be there for and lean on a close-knit group of girlfriends. I can't believe I'm alone in this either. Why is that that we, as adult women, tend to not reach out, support, encourage, and uplift other women? Why is it so hard to make friends?

Honestly, I don't even know where to begin. Or perhaps I do know, but I'm too afraid to put myself out there for risk of feeling like a big ol' nerd who has to sit alone in the art room during lunch? Those fears prey upon that tender place in my heart that I pretend doesn't exist...it's the same fear I had as the new kid at school. Truth be told, I loathe being the new kid and that I can't grow out of that persona I've developed for myself. The irony is that, once put in those types of situations, I thrive and blossom. I'm a complete extrovert Lioness. It's just taking that first step that's the hard part for me. A large part of me wishes I had kids to bond with other moms. Or a dog. Or a gym. Or some kind of routine that didn't involve locking myself away in my kick-ass office all day...


But we all know that those are imaginary obstacles.


Those are the excuses I've devised to prevent me from actually having to do something to get out there and make new friendships. A large part of me wishes someone would reach out to me so I didn't have to.

I think it's time for me to put on my big girl britches and do something about it. I did follow Bradee's chutzpah and joined the same online book club as she, but I have too much going on to actively participate right now. I'd love to volunteer at an animal shelter like I did in college, but that's only because I have a tendency to like little critters more than humans...there are super awesome crafty meet-ups in Columbus, but I'm too scared to go alone and can't bring myself to show up with my husband. Because that's just pitiful.

Help!

list twelve : lost & found.

 {lightsoutfilms flickr}

Some things I've lost along the way...
- my grandparents
- my dad
- my nice hamster Bruce (yes, like Springsteen. He had  a big...um...pair. Everyone laughed at him. I was 9 and was completely clueless.)
- my mean hamster (who replaced Bruce and who bit my grandma & ran away. Don't even remember it's name, only remember he was a mean little cuss.)
- innocence (it's inevitable, but sad to lose don't you think?)
- integrity (I have some not-so-proud moments...)
- focus (or a lack of priorities. No..a lack of focus. Whatevs.)
- friendships (and I use the term loosely in this context.)
- favorite teddy named Pinky (mice in the garage turned him into a nest. Eww..)
- 2 of a set of 3 vintage enamelware bowls. (Who loses bowls?! I can't bring myself to get rid of the lonely yellow and black one.)
- Lost my cell phone once at the Dublin Irish Festival. It pretty much ruined the day, until I went to the lost and found when we were on our way out and lo and behold, someone had turned it in. They even sent a couple text messages to friends/family in my phone, to tell them to tell me that they were turning it in. That still amazes me. Whomever did that for me, thank you.


And a few things I've found:
- an honest-to-goodness best friend
- true love
- a belief system
- money (Nothing beats finding a $20 in a Christmas card, people.)
- self-worth (This one gets lost in the shuffle, but it's there.)
- once-in-a-lifetime experiences (Oh the stories!)
- the truth in people (Sometimes it's ugly, but mostly it's glorious.)
- forgiveness (Though it still doesn't come easy for me.)
- determination (It's what helps me find my focus.)
- what I want to do with my life (and I'm doing it.)
- peace of mind ('tis what it is.)

So there's my list. It was harder to come up with physical things that I've lost in my life because, well, I don't tend to lose things; I merely misplace them temporarily. Finding things is entirely different. I love finding things, whether they're my things to begin with or not. Lost animals, one-of-a-kinds, or other people's stuff...it's fascinating to think of all things lost and found in the world. If you're like me and like the stories behind found objects (real or make-believe), check out Found Magazine and the Museum of Found Things. I could look at this stuff for hours.

How about you? What sorts of things have you lost or found over the years? Anything like a footless parrot?

PSA: Middle West Spirits *EVENT CORRECTION!*

In my over-eager efforts to support the great new local company Middle West Spirits, I didn't check my facts as well as I should have on this past Thursday's Good Morning Ohio post (shame on me, for serious.)

Thanks to an anonymous commenter, I was prompted to check again and now see that this Saturday at the Middle West Spirits distillery is a private event. I repeat...it's not open to the public! -- it's a strictly close friends & family, invitation-only kinda gig.

I stand corrected! Please accept my apologies for misleading you & erase it from your calendar. Instead,  you'll have to find another establishment in the Short North to occupy your time (Surly Girl and Bodega always satisfy.)

Also, it seems that there is contrary information out there on whether the Sandbox event is public (the commenter says public, the MWS facebook page says private), so I'm erring on the side of caution and will wait patiently for their opening and distillery tours coming very soon. When it's open to the public, we'll have to do a meet-up and check it out. Here's to looking forward to late May, when Oyo is expected to hit the shelves.

Until then, darlings, stay warm & have a great weekend!

xo
eve

Freebie Friday: How to Recycle Anything

 {handspun newspaper yarn by Greetje van Tiem, via greenupgrader.com}

We all can't call ourselves masters of recycling or, as I prefer, "green goddesses". Honestly, I don't even come close, despite my efforts. So, if you're anything like me and could use a little cheat sheet in the way of determining whether or not you can recycle a deodorant stick, plastic hangers or phone books, never fear! Real Simple has a fantastic, extensive list of items you can recycle (and all the whats, whys and hows, too. Yes!) This is one bookmark-worthy list, let me tell ya.

For instance, did you know that Nike offers a program that allows you to donate any brand of old sneaker to then be recycled into courts for various sports for children's programs?

or

Did you know that no take-away containers, not even the paper ones from Chinese restaurants, are recyclable and neither are toothbrushes? Talk about needing biodegradable alternatives!

If you're looking for hints on how to set up a recycling station at your house, check out Real Simple's great article on just the thing right here. We're trying to work out the perfect place in our kitchen and are considering removing some shelves in our pantry and involving some kind of pull-out recycling bins like these.

What kind of recycling system do you have set up in your home?

Good Morning Ohio: Middle West Spirits

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Good morning to Columbus's first artisan distillery, Middle West Spirits!

Let me first just say how excited I am to be sharing this business with everyone. It's brand-spanking new...like...it hasn't opened yet! When I heard the news that Columbus was getting our very first microdistillery? Well, I couldn't wait to post the good news!

A big congrats is in order for co-owners Brady Konya and Ryan Lang. For the last couple of years, they have been working hard to launch Middle West Spirits, an artisan micro distillery, who will call the Short North neighborhood of Columbus home when they open their doors. Specializing in an artisan blended vodka named Oyo (a nod to the indigenous Iroquois who lived in the Ohio Valley), Oyo will be a much different, more complex vodka than most are used to. Fuller in flavor and body, it sounds to me like a perfect base for a vodka cocktail or martini. I can't wait for their infused vodka blends, too, which will feature macerated local and Midwest goodies. Doesn't it sound divine? What's more, Middle West Spirits will have a small retail area selling directly to the public. What could only be better for these guys is for some great local restaurants and bars to specialize in Oyo by Middle West Spirits (hint, hint.) Simply put, this is an amazing addition to our town and I wish them the best with their launch.

If you want to hear more on Middle West Spirits, Walker Evans (Columbus Underground) has a fantastic interview with the guys here. It's a great read, so be sure to check it out. Don't forget to peek at the Middle West Spirits website where they have links to both Twitter and their Facebook page. Additional details on the preview open house can be found there, as well.

We're all lucky to have adventurous neighbors like Brady and Ryan who not only call Ohio home, but contribute to the continued development of our urban neighborhoods and support local economic growth. Good luck to Middle West Spirits -- we hope to see everyone at the Open House this Saturday. Can't wait!

Wanted on Wednesday: Vintage Eames Lounge & Ottoman

{modern 50}

One day, I will curl up in this Herman Miller masterpiece and read Hunter S. Thompson. Life will be grand.

Pretty please, take my (itsy bitsy) survey!

It's that time, folks. I'm at a place where I really want to know more about you, dear readers, and hear what you think of Oh My Word! I've made up a very quick survey and linked it at the top of the page. It'll be up there until the end up May 2010 and I would be over the moon with joy if you would fill it out for me, pretty please?

Thanks in advance for helping me to make Oh My Word! even better in the months to come!

xo,
Eve

Motivation.

{source}

Lately, I've been waylaying my fitness routine for a seemingly-endless list chores...organizing, ordering, designing, cleaning, writing and editing, all becoming crucial in these final days leading up to the grand opening of Hello Magpie. Even though getting ready for launch is clearly and obviously my priority right now, I'm feeling pretty disappointed in myself for not remembering to put my own well-being on my schedule. Since November, I've put on the few pounds that I worked at losing (not hard, but still...I lost them, right?) Even at this very moment, warm, sunshine-y breezes are blowing through my window and I know the imminent threat of tank tops, shorts and (*gasp*) bathing suits is just around the corner. I'm starting to freak out.

So it got me thinking: How do I make my own health and fitness a priority? How do I stop the BS excuses and make time? How do I find the motivation and maintain it? I need your help! Clearly, I can't hold myself accountable so I'm sharing it with all of you. Joining WW isn't an option in my budget right now and neither is joining a gym. Here's my goal: I want to lose 20 lbs. this year. Even though I don't really know how I'm going to do it, here's my rough plan.

· Go to bed early, sometime between 10-11pm
· Get up at 8am and get boring work out of the way (paperwork, emails, etc) and have a cup of coffee.
· At 9am, alternate days of going for a walk, doing a fitness DVD or strength/weights training.
· Eat a high protein, late morning/early lunch.
· Back to work by 11am.
· Work until dinner (around 6pm).
· Straighten up workspace, finish last minute items. End no later than 8pm. (ha!)

We already eat really well, though we can always improve. Less Diet Coke and more water (God help me.) Even though I'm not a morning eating kinda gal, I really need to get into the habit. That's why I'm thinking a late morning/post workout/high protein meal is a good compromise.

I know that there are some big holes and weird spots in this schedule, but at least it's a start. I'm a list person. If I have a list, a routine, maybe I can stay motivated. At least I'm hoping so, anyway.


So there it is. That's my goal. Now I just need to work on the motivation. What about you? What system works for you and keeps you motivated?

list eleven: 5 + 20 reasons why my husband is awesome.

{Ringing in 2010. Utter silliness.}

I was having creative block. This list is the result of my asking Bubs for ideas on lists. At first he suggested five reasons why he is awesome. When I agreed, he laughed and followed up with, "Well, then make it 25." Tell me. How could I say no? So here it is. The epic 25 Reasons Why My Husband is Awesome list:

1. He says stuff like, "Well, then make it 25." That's classic.

2. I'm married to a man who says things like, "It's unbeLEEEEEEEIVaburga!" And I laugh and beg him never to say it again at least 20 times a day (even though it really does make me laugh and I secretly really ove his silliness.)

2. He makes up his own "walking music". It sounds a lot like the tune to Fat Albert.

3. At any moment, he can and will start singing Jefferson Starship, Jay-Z, Jennifer Lopez or 80s hair band metal.

4. Literally, he's the funniest person I know.

5. The man looks handsome in everything...even paint-covered scrubs and t-shirts with holes in the armpits.

6. He's generous to a fault.

7. He encourages me to do whatever makes me happy, always and without fail.

8. He does the yucky chores that make me cringe and freak out, like taking out super-smelly garbage and cleaning out the fridge.

9. He holds my hand all the time.

10. Is always up for Lean Gourmet pizza rolls and TV time, even at midnight when I can't sleep.

11. Is the best travel partner ever. Everything is always an adventure.

12. He tells me he loves me (and means it) every day.

13. He can appreciate a well-timed fist pump.

14. Innuendo and 5th grade humor isn't lost on him.

15. He holds doors for me and strangers in public.

16. Unbelievably talented, creative mind.

17. Loves his family and mine.

18. Is rarely one to complain, harbor resentment or ill will to anyone or anything.

19. Trustworthy, integrity, honorable.

20. Best. kisses. ever.

21. Respects and understands the value of hard work and determination.

22. We have a healthy respect for one another's geek-out MMORPG gaming sessions. He doesn't make fun of me when I get really excited about my Dusky Nimblefoot goat mount in LOTRO. (And that sentence made complete sense to him.)

23. He's an outstanding cook and makes dinner every day.

24. Thinks nothing of driving all over Ohio in search of the illusive Dole Whip.

25.. Let's me be myself, without apology or pretense, 100% of the time, and thinks I'm beautiful, even with dirty hair, no makeup, morning breath and a few extra pounds.

Freebie Friday: Amigurumi Bunny Egg Cosy

These little cottontails will be making their way to my two nieces this Sunday, but instead of real eggs, they'll be accompanied by chocolate Cadbury's eggs (which are just way more fun to give!) Not bad for about an hour per bunny, a bit of scrap yarn, embroidery floss, and plaid grosgrain ribbon. I used Lion Brand Yarn's free pattern found here. (*note: you do have to register to view their patterns, but it's more than worth it. No spam and tons of great free projects!)

Prior to this project, I had never made pom-poms before, but I really liked how they turned out. I mean, what's a bunny without a pouf for a tail? I used Bella Dia's easy peasy tutorial here for help.

I'm signing out for the weekend. I wish for you this weekend a renewal of spirit, peace in your hearts and smiles on your faces. Please do not let the sentiment of the season be lost in chocolate eggs and plastic grass. Rebirth, renewal, and resurrection all go hand-in-hand. Whether we're talking about nature or faith, it's really all the same language. Here's to enjoying the friendships you have, hugging loved ones and giving thanks!

Good Morning Ohio: Ohio Proud

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Good morning to central Ohio's Ohio Proud!

With April upon us, I can't help but think of planting flowers and veggies, dusting off my bike and hitting some great local farmer's markets. (Hello, sunshine. I missed you!) We Ohioans are extremely lucky to have been blessed with an abundance of local farms, but many of us don't take advantage of our local farming community nearly as often as we should.

Something I've been thinking about for awhile now is committing our household to a locally-centered diet, where the majority of what we consume comes from our home state (though I don't think I could commit to 100%. I would miss grapefruit too much!) Have you ever considered doing something like that yourself? Well, if you're in Ohio, the resources to support buying locally made and grown products are phenomenal. Just take a look at one of my favorite resources -- Ohio Proud. Based in nearby Reynoldsburg,  Ohio, Ohio Proud's website is a treasure trove of information and a great resource for finding local farmers markets, recipes, partners, and affiliate members selling and supporting all things Ohio-made, like the Fresh Fork Market in the Cleveland area and Buelers Fresh Foods and Heinen's grocers located all over Ohio.

Even if you're not in Ohio, I encourage you to find and support local farmers and grocers. Here are a few benefits of shopping local farmer's markets (as shared from Culinate.com):

• Locally grown food tastes and looks better. The crops are picked at their peak and have not been sitting in warehouses.
• Local food is more nutritious. The shorter the time between farm and your table the less likely it is that nutrients will be lost.
• Local food preserves genetic diversity. Smaller farms can grow a variety of products without worrying about shipping time and shelf life.
• Local food is safe. Local farmers take pride in the product and hope that the customer will return each week. We are not anonymous and Farmers take their responsibility seriously.
• Local food sales supports local families. Often wholesale prices are near the price of production. By cutting the cost of the middleman and producer receives a better return which helps keep families on the farm.
• Local food builds community. Local vendors often share stories, recipes and information which helps you, your children and your grandchildren learn about nature and agriculture.
• Buying locally cuts down on pollution by reducing the miles reliance on imported foods, which are often shipped or flown from foreign countries.

Don't forget to check out Ohio Proud's farmer's market search for markets in your area! Happy eating and planting!