Everyday Living

National Novel Writing Month...Update

noreply@blogger.com (tahtimbo) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 20:48:36 PST

Official word count 13,590/50,000.

Well, I've been at it for a week now and I must say that this writing thing is not easy. Granted, the first few days were a breeze, it was slow going, because I was in the process of setting the stage for the story, but the words just came to me and I had no problems trying to think of what to say. Over the past few days, I really can't say that anymore.

First off, this is the first time I have attempted writing anything of this magnitude, so I am not used to supplying the amount of detail that is needed in a novel. Another thing that I am trying to get used to is writing dialog. I have VERY limited experience in this, so it is making life difficult, trying to make that part of the story flow somewhat smoothly.

There are times when the story seems to write itself (Oh, I love those times) and there are also times when it's like trying to pull teeth. During those times, I just have to keep pushing the story forward, until I can breakout and run for the end zone (Yes, I'm watching the football game while writing this). The story is coming along and hopefully, over the next week, I will get into a better rhythm.

I realize that this post is somewhat disjointed (you think??), but I just wanted to give a quick update of what it's been like.

Friday Fotos: 11/6

noreply@blogger.com (tahtimbo) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 21:41:52 PST

Another Friday is upon us. I hope these photos help brighten your day...

courtesy of... funnyjunk.com

courtesy of... lolpix.com

courtesy of... icanhascheezburger.com

Yum Yum and the Tongue

noreply@blogger.com (tahtimbo) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 20:29:33 PST

While I am knee-deep in writing my new novel (soon to become a major motion picture..I wish), I probably won't be writing many long posts, for which you are all most likely jumping for joy. My current word count is 5200/50,000. With this in mind, I decided to post a few pictures of our newest family member.

My wife was able to get these shots with her phone-camera.

Yes, we have a dork cat...

Hand-Made Wearable Art by WillOaks Studio

noreply@blogger.com (tahtimbo) — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 21:07:18 PST

Believe it or not, the Holiday Season is fast approaching us and I can't think of a better way to show that special someone how much you care, than to give them a one-of-a-kind, hand-made gift. You can help support these very talented artists and do your Christmas shopping at the same time. So, please take the time and look over these items, because that perfect gift may be right here.

Our final featured products are brought to you by: WillOaks Studio The descriptions are copied from the owner's site. Please click on the title or the large image to be taken to their site and the product of your choice.

Brilliant Warm Red Ear Wires

Cubic zirconia in a warm, orangy red is faceted for flash and dangles from hand formed sterling ear wires. The inner fire in these earrings will warm up any outfit for fall or winter and coordinates well with the reds in many of my fall necklaces-as illustrated here shown with my Red and Natural Long Knotted Leather necklace. Wire wrapped to include a cap of tangled sterling wire, a rich contrast in textures.

Hand formed wires incorporate satin finished sterling beads and a faceted and stamped Thai silver bead. Earrings drop 1 3/4" from the top of the ear wire.

Earrings are shipped with clear silicone ear wire clutches and are carefully packed in a cotton filled, decorative box, all ready to give or to keep.

Red and Natural Long Knotted Leather necklace

Really long necklaces are so versatile and this one is original, too. Fine brown leather has been knotted to capture 71" of lovely hand selected natural stones and beads. Included are natural red marble, dyed red quartz, natural varigated quartz, and Czech glass, all with unique patterns and a variety of surfaces, featuring shades of bright,warm red.

Since this necklace is over 71" long and closes with a copper toggle, it can be worn in many ways from very long to a wrapped arrangement with either staggered strands or a cluster of beautiful stones. It's even long enough to tie into a loose knot. Imagine layering it over a nice winter sweater for a look that's sure to get attention. It coordinates perfectly with my Brilliant Warm Red ear wires, listed here in my shop.

Necklaces are carefully packed into decorative boxes, all ready to give or to keep. Consider adding coordinated earrings, either available in my shop or custom made for you-just drop me a note!

Luxuriant Labradorite neckpiece

A truly royal collection of faceted labradorite teardrops, graduated in size from 15 mm to 6mm long, forms the clustered focal point for the artful neckpiece. The deep gray labradorite includes generous flashes of royal blue, teal, green and yellow, always changing in different light. Plentiful facets add another kind of light play.

Teardrops are arranged on sterling silver coated steel beading cable which is linked to oxidized sterling chain. The sterling lobster claw clasp and wire used to construct this piece was also oxidized here in my studio.

Just over 9" of stones, connected to a total of 14" of chain and clasp, make this piece infinitely adjustable from choker length to as long as 23"--plenty of different lengths to suit different necklines. A labradorite briolette dangles from the end of the chain.

It took over a year to finally gather a collection of labradorite stones in order to create this graduated arrangement. This piece will be offered as a very small edition. Coordinated earrings, in a style that you prefer, are always available--please contact me for more information.

Each neck piece is carefully packaged in a cotton filled, decorative box for shipping.

The House

noreply@blogger.com (tahtimbo) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 20:20:42 PDT

I ran this story last Halloween, so I felt it would be appropriate to dust it off and give it another showing. Just a note: the sketch was done by my daughter for the novel I will be starting on Sunday. Anyway, I hope you enjoy it...

I found this buried in my college notes a few weeks ago. The following is a portion from a book I was going to write. After 4 chapters I gave up and, judging from how this turned out, it was just as well. Happy Halloween!

Julie was alone in her uncle’s house. The 11:00 O’ Clock news was on and there was some story about a guy who raised a record-sized carrot. When they ran stories like that, you know that it was a slow news day. Elsa was doing her usual routine of sitting and staring at you, that cat wasn’t good for much else…what cat is? It was when the news was over that Julie realized what happens next…bedtime. She knew that she would have to go to sleep, bit the thought frightened her and she didn’t know why. It could have something to do with the fact that she would have to turn-off all the lights and try to sleep in the dark, empty (and let’s not forget), BIG house. The fact that neighbors surrounded her did nothing to alleviate her anxiety. It was a well-known fact that when the lights went out, the ghosts came to life. Everybody knows that! “Elsa, stop that tearing around! You had all day to play and there’s no need to run around the house and…” She stopped in mid-sentence when she saw what Elsa was doing. That stupid cat was sitting outside the doorway to the stairwell and staring.

The feelings that came over Julie were ones of fright and dread. Knowing that she would have to go in and check things out, (she could no longer think that she could drift peacefully to sleep) knowing that the stupid cat had seen or sensed something in the house. Julie got up out of her chair and did what any normal person would do…she opened the front door. This was done not to run outside, but to give herself a sense of security. She knew that beyond the front door lay the neighbors and safety. It never occurred to her that the front door was a full 30 yards from the staircase door. However, the feeling is what counts in this instance. Slowly, Julie turned from the front door and started for the rear of the house. “Elsa, what are you doing?” The sound of her own voice comforted her, although it did nothing to alleviate the tension from Elsa. As Julie neared the staircase, turning on every light within her reach, she saw that Elsa’s fur was standing on end and the growling grew louder. When Julie got to within a few feet of the doorway, Elsa started to back away and spit at the door. It suddenly felt very cold in the hallway and Julie sensed something else; it was a feeling very hard to describe, but she felt the presence of evil. It seemed to be coming from the stairwell in waves. It took every ounce of strength in her 18 year old body could muster to go those last few feet. As she turned to look in the doorway, she comforted herself by talking to Elsa, “its okay Elsa, there’s nothing in there.”

As she looked up the curving stairway, she heard the sound of a creaking floorboard from above her. Elsa had flown into the laundry room at the other side of the house, so it wasn’t her. Something was upstairs. Something that shouldn’t be there, was there. There it goes again; definitely, something was walking around upstairs. Looking over her shoulder, Julie noticed that the front door was wide open and there was a clear shot to the outside. Feeling brave, Julie looked back up the stairs and yelled, “Hey, you don’t scare me you stupid, ugly ghost!” All of a sudden, an inhuman howl roared through the house. It didn’t come from just the upstairs, but from all around her. Turning back Julie yelled once more, “come and get me you jerk!” As Julie started to run for the front door, she heard the unmistakable sound of an immensely heavy footstep at the top of the stairs. Running for the door, Julie noticed that she was not really running at all. It felt as if something was pushing against her and slowing her down. The footsteps grew louder, but they also now came from the direction of the basement. Julie tried to run faster, but it was like running through Jell-O. The howls and the footsteps grew nearer from all sides, yet the front door seemed to be just out of reach. The overpowering sense of evil seemed to be suffocating her and making it hard to breathe. The howling grew deafening; the footsteps closer; the fear overpowering.

Almost there, the front door is within reach. As Julie reached for the door, something touched her shoulder and as she turned around, Julie saw a sight that made her…

Friday Fotos: 10/30

noreply@blogger.com (tahtimbo) — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 20:19:03 PDT

I hope you all have a happy and safe Halloween...

Happy Halloween...

courtesy of... lolpix.com

This would freak me out...

courtesy of... funlol.com

This is me before my coffee...

courtesy of... icanhascheezburger.com

Hand-Crafted Jewelry from the BeadedTail

noreply@blogger.com (tahtimbo) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 20:37:31 PDT

Custom Name Albums by Memories for Life Scrapbooks

noreply@blogger.com (tahtimbo) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 20:31:09 PDT

Choose your word

Choose your colors

Choose your theme (optional)

Ideas for words

Family's last name

Child's first name

Sports team (high school, college, pro)

Vacation destinations (Florida, Ozarks, etc.)

Pictures shown are just examples, your album will look as you wish. It will be embellished similarly and have chipboard base, cardstock layer, and patterned paper letters on the ends. Embellishments will include stickers, die cuts, ribbon, buttons, and other photo-safe items.

Convo me with any questions.

Beautiful Blooms Address Book

Keep up with your family and friends in style!

With such a fun patterned paper on the front and pink, teal, and red tabs...you'll want to write and call your friends and family daily :)

This cute little address book measures 6.25"x4.125 with the inside pages measuring 4"x6". There are 26 pages with 6 spaces on each page that are separated into 8 sections.

The cover is made of extra heavy chipboard and covered with patterned paper and cardstock. The inside pages are made of nice, sturdy cardstock.

Keep track of everyone's address, email address, phone #s, birthday and so much more with this fun and stylish address book :)

Family Time Scrapbook Photo
Album-Simply Stunning Series

Simple and Stunning is the best way to describe this album!

Made with both the scrapbooker and non-scrapbooker in mind :) This album is super cute, yet elegant all at the same time!

The album measures 5.5"x8.5" and the inside pages are just a tad smaller. The covers are made of extra heavy chipboard and are covered with cardstock and patterned paper.

The inside pages are each adorned with two patterned paper strips and photo corners to hold a 4"x6" photo. There are 10 pages to hold a total of 20 photos.

The best part about this album is that it requires no cropping of photos and no adhesive is necessary!

This album makes a great coffee table book and a wonderful gift!

See the rest of the series for other themes and convo me if you would like a custom album made :)

Leaving Entrecard

noreply@blogger.com (tahtimbo) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 20:32:42 PDT

As of today, I will no longer be accepting ads from the Entrecard network. I am very sorry to say this, but due to the yahoos over there that think they know how to run a business (yeah, run it into the ground), I have decided to leave as soon as I complete the Etsy shop features and the current advertisements run-out, which will occur on November 3rd. If you have an ad coming up, please note that I will continue to drop and to advertise up until the time I cancel my account; however,if you would like to cancel your ad, please feel free to do so.

When I discovered this new scheme at Entrecard, which requires us to accept paid ads, I knew right then and there that I would be leaving. This being the case, I have spent the last several weeks subscribing to sites using the Google FriendsConnect or through Facebook. I have also been experimenting with new forms of advertising using CMF ads and Adgitize. So far, I have been very happy with these low-cost forms of advertising (see the right sidebar, near the top, if you are interested in either of these services).

If you are interested in keeping in touch with me, please use the Goggle FriendsConnect on the right sidebar or if you are on Facebook, you can see me there.

I want to thank all the great people I have met over the past 16 months and I hope we will all stay in touch.

Tim Hicks | Create Your Badge

Friday Fotos: 10/23

noreply@blogger.com (tahtimbo) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 20:27:59 PDT

Here are a few photos to help ease you through the day. I hope you all have a great weekend...

How many times did I want to do this...

courtesy of... dailycognition.com

The newest Sesame Street cast member...

courtesy of... hahastop.com

courtesy of... icanhascheezburger.com

Custom Creations by Tulip's Treasure Box

noreply@blogger.com (tahtimbo) — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 20:26:03 PDT

Shipping and handling included

Lay-a-way payment plan available

Worldwide shipping

Great Gift Ideas from the Storybeader

noreply@blogger.com (tahtimbo) — Sun, 18 Oct 2009 20:19:15 PDT

She crept downstairs to
Find the treasures under the
Lighted Christmas tree.
- storybeader

I've been waiting for just the right beads to place with this colorful Christmas tree, and decided a treasure necklace base would be best.

The lampwork pendant was created by a SRA (Self-Representing Artist) from Canada, islandgirl. It is 31 mm (1.2 inches) from top to bottom, approx. 18.8 mm (.75 inches) wide at the midpoint, and is 11.6 mm (.46 inches) thick. It was made on a 3mm mandrel.

The treasure beaded base is a mix of green chipped glass, large seed beads, and crystals. There is a secure hook and eye clasp to close, and the necklace measures 25.5 inches in length.

Snake Dance - turquoise and jasper necklace

The snake danced in the
Opposite direction when
It saw the jasper.
- storybeader

Jasper is said to protect the wearing from snakes and spiders... a good gemstone to wear in the desert

This chunky necklace was created with 12-22mm turquoise nuggets and 6mm round red jasper beads. A hook and eye clasp secures it in the back.

Matching earrings are sold separately.

Length: 23" long
Weight: 3.1 oz.

Handmade coptic stitch journal
with Japanese paper covers, lined paper

The wedding planner
Wished she was hanging the kites
For her wedding day.
- storybeader

My newest journal has Japanese Washi paper for its covers and is sewn together with waxed Irish linen thread, using the coptic stitch. Handmade in the storybeader's workshop.

Dimensions: 4.5" x 6.75"

There are a total of 80 sheets of 24 lb. paper, which I lined with single spacing. Perfect for a small journal. The first signature is wrapped with decorative blue starred paper.

Friday Fotos: 10/16

noreply@blogger.com (tahtimbo) — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 20:41:07 PDT

Hello everyone and welcome to Friday Fotos. Enjoy the photos and have a great weekend!

How you have to park at Walmart...

courtesy of... hahastop.com

Why I don't live in Australia...

courtesy of... funnyjunk.com

icanhascheezburger.com

Creative Gifts from Rose Works Jewelry

noreply@blogger.com (tahtimbo) — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 20:55:12 PDT

Believe it or not, the Holiday Season is fast approaching us and I can't think of a better way to show that special someone how much you care, than to give them a one-of-a-kind, hand-made gift. You can help support these very talented artists and do your Christmas shopping at the same time. So, please take the time and look over these items, because that perfect gift may be right here.

The following featured products are brought to you by: Rose Works Jewelry The descriptions are copied from the owner's site. Please click on the title or the large image to be taken to their site and the product of your choice.

Spirit Fairy - Bead Woven Necklace

Spirit Fairy is the second in my Fairy series of necklaces. See below for looks at the other piece in the series and the story that goes with the necklace! The necklace has been made using a combination of bead weaving techniques and is my own design. I used delica's in this particular necklace, and they added to the light, fairy, feel of the necklace! It graduates in color from light violet, to purple, dark purple, purple, and back to light violet.

This necklace is adjustable between 15 and 16 1/2 inches. If you need a larger size just let me know and I'd be glad to do a custom order!

Adventure Necklace

This beautiful necklace will fill you with a sense of adventure as you wear it proudly around your neck! It's made from a combination of Red Tiger Eye and Red Aventurine. Neither stone is truly red in color, although that's the official designation. The Tigereye is a deep brown with swirls of a lighter color that appears as if a tiger is staring right back at you. The Aventurine is an orange/brown and the smaller round beads are more beige in color. It's a beautiful combination and what I'd want to wear if I was going on a photo safari!

The necklace is approximately 19 inches in length and uses a hook clasp to make it easy to put it on by yourself! Let me know if you need a different length and I can easily adjust it for you.

Custom Spiral Hemp Bracelet
- You Pick the Color and Size

This listing is for a custom spiral hemp bracelet! All you have to do is tell me which color you prefer and what length you need. Pictured are: Black, dark brown, tan, and light purple. These are all the colors I currently have, but I can easily order new colors if your interested! Other colors I can access are: white, red, turquoise blue, multicolored, dusty rose, green, yellow, light blue, blue, dark purple, and green.

Hemp Jewelry Information:

As you wear your piece the fibers will bind tighter together and it will slowly gain a "smoother" appearance than it does initially. Hemp itself is very diverse in it's uses, and has been around for thousands of years! It's use in macrame become popular because it's not too slippery and it's very sturdy. Macrame has been around for centuries, and it's use in jewelry has recently seen a revitalization. I hope you enjoy my pieces!

Hand-Spun Yarns and Crafts from Split Rock Ranch

noreply@blogger.com (tahtimbo) — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 20:27:40 PDT

Believe it or not, the Holiday Season is fast approaching us and I can't think of a better way to show that special someone how much you care, than to give them a one-of-a-kind, hand-made gift. You can help support these very talented artists and do your Christmas shopping at the same time. So, please take the time and look over these items, because that perfect gift may be right here.

The following featured products are brought to you by: Split Rock Ranch.
The descriptions are copied from the owner's site. Please click on the title or the large image to be taken to their site and the product of your choice.

Deluxe Needle Felting Kit

ON SALE - Save $1
Our deluxe small needle felting kit includes:

* A variety of wools in an assortment of colors - Two (2.0) ounces total. The fibers you receive will be those shown.

* A 4"x8" foam block to use as a work surface

* Two felting needles - 1 #38 triangle needle for medium work and 1 #40 triangle needle for fine work

* Basic Needle Felting Instructions

* Carry Case - 10" x 7" x 3-1/2" in a Beach/Coastal design. The design is the same on front and back of the case.

Additional needle felting fiber packs sold separately in our store.
This ships via USPS Priority Mail with delivery confirmation.

Wool and Silk Caplet

This beautiful little caplet, shoulder warmer, collar, mini-shawl is hand crocheted using a gorgeous high luster, ultra-soft hand-dyed wool and silk yarn. It fastens with a wooden button and can be fastened in a variety of different places along the caplet to fit many different sizes. The caplet is 9 inches from the neckline to the tip of the scalloped edges.

It would be gorgeous worn over a turtleneck shirt or sweater or use as a little shawl over that little black dress. The colors are gorgeous - golds, burgundy, bronze, orange, brown. It would be beautiful worn with cream, gold, burgundy, deep forest green, brown, black or gray.

Dry clean or hand wash in cool water, lay flat to dry. Do not twist or wring.

Quiet Reflection - Handspun Yarn - Blue Faced Leicester Wool - 308 yards and 6.3 oz

These three skeins of hand-spun yarn are spun from BFL wool dyed by Beemiceelf. This little collection of fibers was a sampler set of one ounce of six different colorways that make up the "Quiet Collection". These were a blast to spin. Use them all in one project - they coordinate beautifully - or use each skein for a separate project.

* I spun Secluded and Pensive Plum and plied them two ply for a total of 104 yards and 1.8 oz - DK weight.

* I spun Silent Meadow and Still Summit and plied them two ply for a total of 96 yards and 2.1 oz - Worsted weight.

* I spun Reflection and Serene and plied them two ply for a total of 84 yards and 1.9 oz - Worsted weight.

* Then what was left on the bobbin I Navajo plied for a total of 24 yards and 0.5 oz - Worsted weight.

* A total of 308 yards and 6.3 oz.

This yarn has been properly treated to set the twist.
Suitable for knitting, crocheting, felting or whatever your creativity dreams up!

Special announcement for... Etsy Shop Owners

Friday Fotos: 10/9

noreply@blogger.com (tahtimbo) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 20:50:06 PDT

Well, once again Friday is upon us. To celebrate reaching this weekly milestone once again, here are a few photos for you. Enjoy...

Gee, this may be a tough law to obey...

courtesy of... funnyjunk.com

Apparently, yet another job opening...

courtesy of... lolpix.com

Too true...

courtesy of... icanhascheezburger.com

Hand-Knitted Accessories by Lenox Knits

noreply@blogger.com (tahtimbo) — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 20:44:33 PDT

Believe it or not, the Holiday Season is fast approaching us. With this in mind, over the next several weeks I will be featuring the items of various Etsy shops. I can't think of a better way to show that special someone how much you care, than to give them a one-of-a-kind, hand-made gift. You can help support these very talented artists and do your Christmas shopping at the same time. So, please take the time and look over these items, because that perfect gift may be right here.

The following featured products are brought to you by: Lenox Knits.
The descriptions are copied from the owner's site. Please click on the title or the large image to be taken to their site and the product of your choice.

Dramatic Entrance - Handmade Brown Sparkle Knit Scarf

This scarf will make a statement where ever you go with it. It is a one of kind and has the perfect sparkle and pizazz for the diva in you. It was knit with a mix of acrylic, polyester, and nylon yarns.
It measures 7" x 46" with 14"'s of fabulous fringe as well. It should be hand washed and laid flat to dry.

Mountain Skies - Handmade Multicolor Lace Knitted Scarf

This really is one of my favorites. It can be worn like a shawl over your shoulders all day long or wrapped around your neck like a scarf to keep you warm. It is a luscious blend of mohair, silk, and wool from Noro, my favorite Japanese yarn brand. There are shades of brown, rich blues, touches of purple, red and aqua. There are also some lovely glass beads at the ends for an extra touch.
It measures 8" x 55" and should be hand washed in cool water and laid flat to dry.

Modern Flapper - Handmade Red and Black Knitted Scarflette

This neckwarmer combines the best of a short scarf and a long scarflette. It will fit under or over your coat and has a vintage gold and black button which can be inserted anywhere through the knitted fabric for many different looks and functions. You could also wear it buttoned long and use it as a fashion accessory all day long.
It was hand knit with a drop stitch pattern. It is primarily black and red with touches of deep purple and orange.
It has a very relaxed elegance that reminds me of the flapper age and will get you tons of compliments. It is a soft and fluffy polyester and acrylic blend so it is perfect for those with wool allergies. It measures 5" x 35" and should be hand washed and laid flat to dry.

Special announcement for... Etsy Shop Owners

Glass Creations from Lucky Girl Trading Co.

noreply@blogger.com (tahtimbo) — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 12:09:14 PDT

Believe it or not, the Holiday Season is fast approaching us. With this in mind, over the next several weeks I will be featuring the items of various Etsy shops. I can't think of a better way to show that special someone how much you care, than to give them a one-of-a-kind, hand-made gift. You can help support these very talented artists and do your Christmas shopping at the same time. So, please take the time and look over these items, because that perfect gift may be right here.

The following featured products are brought to you by: Lucky Girl Trading Company.
The descriptions are copied from the owner's site. Please click on the title or the large image to be taken to their site and the product of your choice.

Mod Circles Blue to Purple Pendant

I made this pretty pendant with circle patterned dichroic glass that sparkles and shifts in shades of green, blue, and purple. Approximately 1/2" x 1-7/16", plus your choice of silver-plated or gold-plated bail, with a smooth top finish. If you'd like a gold-plated bail please say so in the notes to seller during checkout, otherwise I'll attach a silver-plated bail. item #420.

Need a chain or cord for your pendant? I have a large selection available in my shop.

Bubbly Blue Fused Glass Tealight Candle Holder

I made this candle holder with translucent blue art glass as a base and a layer of clear glass for depth. I added a fair amount of magic bubble powder between the layers of glass to create the frothy look, then fused the glass in my kiln. After fusing and cooling was complete, the glass was washed before going back into the kiln to be shaped into this unique candle holder. It measures about 2" tall and 2.75" wide, the perfect size to hold a tealight candle.

Small Flower Power Yellow Smiley Fused Glass Dish

I made this dish with sunny yellow art glass as a base and a layer of clear glass for depth. I created the smiley face with multicolored glass millefiore bits. It's about 4.5" square with rounded corners and a gentle slope. The dish would be beautiful holding spare change or keys, serving condiments or snacks, or as a candle or soap dish. It's also nice just to look at--it makes me smile every time I walk past! Food and dishwasher safe.

I'm happy to ship this internationally, so if you're outside the U.S. please ask me for the postage to your country.

Special announcement for... Etsy Shop Owners

November is National Novel Writing Month

noreply@blogger.com (tahtimbo) — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 19:59:49 PDT

I realize that October has only just begun, but I need to use these next few weeks to prepare for an upcoming adventure...

November is typically a very busy month for me. In addition to homeschooling our kids, I also start getting our Christmas decorations up (don't worry, we don't turn the lights on until Thanksgiving night), thoroughly clean the house from top to bottom, plan the Thanksgiving Day menu, and then cook the meal. Well, in my dementia, I have decided to add even more to this busy month: I plan to write a novel.

November is National Novel Writing Month and I plan to participate. You see, starting at midnight on November 1st we have until November 30th to write a 50,000 word novel. What is the purpose of doing this? Well, the thought behind it is to have people write their novel and then, when the contest is over, they would then go back and revise it. Roughly, what you are doing is writing a rough draft.

So, why am I doing this? Although it may look as if I have finally lost what's left of my mind, I have actually always wanted to do this and a deadline is just what I need to motivate myself. Now, the only question is: what to write about? I know that I want the novel to be a ghost story, but what I need are some ideas on where the story will take place; what about an old house, a forest, or a haunted ship? If you can think of a fun place for this story to take place, please let me know.

Wish me luck, this is going to get interesting.

Friday Fotos: 10/2

noreply@blogger.com (tahtimbo) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 21:20:52 PDT

Well, it is Friday once again, so here are a few photos to hopefully get you through your day...

courtesy of... funnyjunk.com

Oops...

courtesy of... hahastop.com

courtesy of... icanhascheezburger.com

The Advetures of Koko and Yum Yum

noreply@blogger.com (tahtimbo) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 20:33:13 PDT

It's been a few weeks since Yum Yum has joined our family and she is quickly becoming adjusted to her new home. In addition to climbing into the refrigerator and being constantly underfoot when we are in the kitchen, she has picked-up Koko's habit of waking us up at 5:30 every morning. On the topic of Koko, they seem to be getting along better each day; it's fun to watch them chasing around the house. Anyway, here are a few pictures for you to enjoy...

What, you talkin' to me...

Bird-watching can be so tiresome...

Do you see a pattern developing here...

Sourdough Starter Update

noreply@blogger.com (tahtimbo) — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 20:44:42 PDT

I understand that many of you have been waiting with bated breath to find out how my sourdough starter is holding up, so I figured that I would provide a quick update for you. This is also a way of saying that I had nothing at all to write about, so I will just bore you with details that you probably could care less about. Now, since I published my article on How to Make Sourdough Starter (yup, shameless self-promotion), I have had the opportunity to bake over 20 loaves of bread and I am happy to report that the bread is continuing to turn out great and the starter is still chugging along nicely.

Since I have gotten more comfortable with the starter, I have started to experiment a little with what I add to the bread. I have begun to add some granulated garlic to my french breads and at some point, I would like to add sun-dried tomatoes. I have also experimented with using wheat flour. This flour kneads differently than the white flour so, if you decide to use it, please be sure to watch carefully as you add it, because one minute it may look too moist and then BAM, you've added too much.

If you have your own starter, don't be afraid to experiment with it. The worst thing that can happen, is that the bread won't rise and you end-up with flat-bread (great for dipping in soups). Remember, don't skimp on the proofing times (yes, I've done that, too).

One thing though, my bread is very dense and I was wondering if anyone out there would know how I can get more air-holes in my bread (making it nice and fluffy)? Would substituting shortening for the olive oil make a difference? If anyone has any suggestions, please let me know.

Sorry for this strange article, but I have been totally slammed this week and have had very little time to devote to writing.

Removing Dead Links from Your Site

noreply@blogger.com (tahtimbo) — Sun, 27 Sep 2009 20:40:18 PDT

How did I spend my Sunday? Well,with the Vikings vs. 49er's game playing in the background (how did you like the end?), I spent the day removing dead links from my site. Personally, I really find it irritating to go to a link and discover it doesn't work. So, in order prevent my visitors from experiencing this same frustration, I like to go in every few weeks and check my site for dead links and clean them out.

I went in today and was amazed to find about 20 links that did not work. Most were from bloggers who left comments on my site and have since left the blogging world. Now, since Blogger does not allow us to edit our comments, I end up going in and copying the original comment and then republishing it with the following comment: "Edited to remove dead link. Original comment posted on: (I give date and time)." When it happens to be a broken link, I go in and do the same thing, but this time I post it using the corrected URL. Today, I not only had to fix and remove links in the comments, but also in some of my articles. I went in and removed the link, then republished the post.

How do I find these dead links? Well, I use a free link checker I found through my Profit Lance course (yes, I broke down and took the course a year or so ago). Even though it's free, it does a very good job of going through EVERY single link on your site. When you find one that is broken or dead, just highlight the link and right-click on properties. It will then tell you where you can find the link on your site.

If you run into any problems trying to remove the little guys, just let me know and I'll do my best to help you.

Xenu Link Checker

Chocolate Stout Cake

noreply@blogger.com (tahtimbo) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 20:50:42 PDT

image courtesy of... Bon Appétit

This is a cake I made for a birthday party at my wife's work. I thought it was rather strange to add stout to a cake, but I must say that it got rave reviews at her work. I found this recipe in Bon Appétit magazine. If you wish to see the original recipe, please click on the link to Bon Appétit below the picture.

What you need

Cake

2 nine-inch diameter cake pans

Parchment paper

Off-set spatula

3 ounces unsweetened chocolate

2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

2 tsp. baking powder

½ tsp baking soda

½ tsp salt

14 Tbsp (1 ¾ sticks) of salted butter, room temperature

1 ¼ cups, plus 3 Tbsp of sugar

3 large eggs, separated

¾ cup chocolate stout (recommended , if you can find it), regular stout, or porter

2/3 cup freshly brewed, strong coffee

Frosting

1-pound bittersweet chocolate (54% to 64% cacao), chopped

2-cups heavy whipping cream

1 tsp instant espresso powder

Putting it together

First, get everything together that you will need, because you are going to be very busy over the next 30 minutes, or so

Separate the eggs and keep them in the refrigerator until needed

Butter and flour both cake pans

Line bottom of cake pans with parchment paper

Butter and flour the parchment paper

Set oven rack to middle of oven and pre-heat oven to 350°

Chop the chocolate and place it in a heat-proof bowl

Place the bowl over a gently simmering water bath, stirring until melted (be sure to keep the chocolate warm)

In a smaller bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt

Using a whisk mix the dry ingredients well, then set aside

In larger bowl, place the butter and 1 ¼ cups of sugar until it becomes fluffy and becomes pale yellow in color (be sure not to skimp on this part, it should take anywhere from 2-4 minutes)

Beat in the egg yokes, one at a time. Beat well after each addition

Beat in the melted chocolate

Ditto the stout and then the coffee

Put the mixer on the lowest setting and add the flour mixture to the chocolate mixture in two increments. Mix only until the flour is just incorporated. You do not want to over-mix at this point

Using clean, dry beaters, beat egg whites and the 3 Tbsp of sugar, until you get stiff peaks

Fold the stiff egg whites into the cake mixture, 1/3 at a time

Pour the batter into the cake pans

Place in oven and time for 30 minutes or until a tooth pick inserted in the center of each cake comes out clean

When the cakes are done, place on cooling racks for 20 minutes

After 30 minutes, take the rear of a knife and score the sides of each cake

Invert the cakes onto the cooling racks, remove the pans and the parchment

Allow to cool fully

When you have a minute...

The frosting

While your cake is baking, we can get started on the frosting. Don't worry, this part is much easier

Chop the chocolate and place in a heat-proof bowl

Pour the heavy cream in a sauce pan

Add the espresso powder

Over medium-high heat, bring to a simmer, stirring constantly

Pour the cream mixture over the chopped chocolate and let sit for 1 minute

After one minute, whisk the chocolate until fully melted

cover and let cool in the refrigerator until it is of spreadable consistency (about 2 hours), stir occasionally

Frosting the cake

When the cake is cool and the frosting is ready, using a serrated knife, slice the rounded (top) portions of your cakes, so that they are flat

Place one cake cut-side down on your platter/plate

Tip: to keep your platter clean, take some parchment and cut into strips. Place the strips under the edges of your cake. You will need about three pieces of parchment to make sure the entire platter is covered. When you are done frosting, just gently pull the parchment away and marvel at your clean plate

Dump about a cup of the frosting on the cake and spread evenly over the top. You will want roughly about a ¼ inch (6-7mm) thick layer of frosting

Place the second cake, cut-side down on top of the first

Spread the remaining frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake

Cover with a cake dome and store in the refrigerator

If you are like most of us and don't have a cake dome, just take a very large Tupperware-type bowl and place the cake on the lid (I use a bit of Velcro on the bottom of the platter and on the lid to attach the two; it also keeps the cake from banging around during transport). Then place the bowl over the cake and seal

Before serving, let the cake come to room temperature

I hope you enjoy it!

Friday Fotos: 9/25

noreply@blogger.com (tahtimbo) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 20:18:28 PDT

I have already turned my brain off for the weekend, so I don't know what to write (what else is new). Anyway, have a great weekend and enjoy the pictures...

Great sense of humor...

courtesy of... hahastop.com

We already have two of these...

found at... funnyjunk.com

As if I'm not already afraid of the dentist...

courtesy of... theoriens.com

Whimpsters [del.icio.us]

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COMMENT POLICY Comments on this blog are made DOFOLLOW for the Google Spiders. Comments are moderated. Spam will not be tolerated.

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