Pumpkin Latte Coffee Cake

Makes: 12 servings

Prep 30 mins Bake 350°F 45 mins to 50 mins Cool 45 mins

Ingredients

• 5 eggs
• 2 teaspoons instant espresso coffee powder or instant coffee granules
• 1 8 ounce package cream cheese, softened
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 2/3 cup canned pumpkin
• 1 cup buttermilk or sour milk*
• 1 recipe Streusel
• 1 recipe Coffee Drizzle

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a 13x9x2-inch baking pan; set aside. In a small bowl stir together two of the eggs and the espresso powder; set aside. In a medium bowl beat cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until fluffy. Beat in the 2/3 cup sugar, the 2 tablespoons flour, and the vanilla until smooth. Beat in egg-espresso mixture; set aside.

 

2. In a medium bowl stir together the 3 cups flour, the baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

 

3. In a large bowl beat butter with an electric mixer on medium speed for 30 seconds; gradually add the 1-1/2 cups sugar, beating until fluffy. Add the remaining three eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in pumpkin. Alternately add flour mixture and buttermilk to pumpkin mixture, beating after each addition until combined. Spread half of the batter in the prepared baking pan. Spoon half of the cream cheese mixture by small spoonfuls on top of the batter. Add the remaining batter in spoonfuls; carefully spread over the cream cheese mixture. Top with spoonfuls of the remaining cream cheese mixture. With a knife, swirl batter to marble. Sprinkle with Coffee Streusel.

 

4. Bake in preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near center comes out clean. Cool in pan on a wire rack for 45 minutes. Spoon Coffee Drizzle over coffee cake in a lacy pattern. Cool completely on wire rack.

From the Test Kitchen

• Prepare as directed. Cool baked cake completely but do not spoon Coffee Drizzle over coffee cake. Wrap in foil; overwrap in plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. To serve, top with Coffee Drizzle.

• To make 1 cup sour milk, place 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar in a glass measuring cup. Add enough milk to make 1 cup total liquid; stir. Let stand for 5 minutes before using.

Streusel

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/3 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1/4 cup butter, cold

Directions Streusel:

 

1. In a medium bowl combine brown sugar, rolled oats, flour, and pumpkin pie spice. Using a pastry blender, cut in butter until crumbly.

Coffee Drizzle

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon light-colored corn syrup
• 1 - 2 tablespoons cooled Espresso or strong-brewed coffee

Directions Coffee Drizzle:

1. In a small bowl stir together powdered sugar and corn syrup. Stir in enough cooled espresso or strong-brewed coffee (1 to 2 tablespoons) to make drizzling consistency.

 

Nutrition Facts (Pumpkin Latte Coffee Cake)

• Servings Per Recipe 12,
• cal. (kcal) 574,
• Fat, total (g) 21,
• chol. (mg) 140,
• sat. fat (g) 12,
• carb. (g) 89,
• Monosaturated fat (g) 6,
• Polyunsaturated fat (g) 1,
• dietary fiber (g) 2,
• sugar (g) 58,
• protein (g) 9,
• vit. A (IU) 2721,
• vit. C (mg) 1,
• Thiamin (mg) 0,
• Riboflavin (mg) 0,
• Niacin (mg) 2,
• Pyridoxine (Vit. B6) (mg) 0,
• Folate (µg) 81,
• Cobalamin (Vit. B12) (µg) 0,
• sodium (mg) 408,
• Potassium (mg) 199,
• calcium (mg) 131,
• iron (mg) 3,
• Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

www.bhg.com © Copyright 2012, Meredith Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

Blissful Banana Mouse

This creamy dessert is low in saturated fat, cholesterol
and sodium.

Ingredients

• 2 T low-fat (1 percent) milk
• 4 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 medium banana, cut in
  quarters
• 1 cup plain low-fat yogurt
• 8 banana slices (1/4-inch)

Directions

Place milk, sugar, vanilla and banana in blender. Blend for 15 seconds on high until smooth. Pour mixture into a small bowl. Fold in yogurt. Chill. Spoon into dessert dishes. Garnish each with 2 banana slices just
before serving.

Yield

4 Servings (1/2 cup each)

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 94
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 4mg
Sodium: 47mg

Spinach and Herb Omelet

Get a great start in the morning with this low-fat, low-carb, protein-filled breakfast.

 

Ingredients

• 1 cup spinach leaves (or other greens), torn
• 1 egg
• 1 egg white
• 1 tsp. fresh grated ginger root
• 1 tsp. Mrs. Dash or other seasoning mix
• 1 T salsa
• Nonstick cooking spray

Directions

Tear up the spinach leaves and steam or saute in a little water until they wilt. Fold into the beaten eggs with the grated ginger, salsa and seasoning. Cook in a nonstick pan sprayed with cooking spray, turning as needed until the eggs are set.

Yield

4 Servings

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 105
Carbohydrate: 4g
Protein: 11g
Fat: 5g
Sodium: 204mg
Fiber: 1g

Veggie Frittata

I could do without the peppers, but other than that it sounds great.

Veggie Frittata

Recipe by Kathleen Zelman, MPH, RD/LD

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 cup cooked, peeled diced red potato
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (10-ounce) package fresh spinach (can substitute drained, frozen spinach)
• 6 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 4 large egg whites, lightly beaten
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Cooking spray
• 1/4 cup (1 ounce) part-skim Mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, shredded

Preparation

1. Coat a 10-inch nonstick skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium-high heat.
2. Add spinach; saute' 2 minutes until wilted.
3. Saute' onion in olive oil for 8-10 minutes until browned, stirring occasionally. Add red bell pepper; continue cooking 2-3 more minutes until soft.
4. Combine eggs, salt, pepper; whisk to thoroughly combine. Add onion mix, spinach and potato to egg mixture; stir well.
5. Wipe the nonstick skillet and coat with cooking spray. Pour egg mixture into the pan and cook over medium-high heat about 7-9 minutes or until bottom of frittata is browned.
6. Preheat oven broiler. Wrap handle of skillet with foil. Sprinkle cheeses over frittata and broil 5 minutes or lightly browned.
7. Cut into six wedges

Yield

6 Servings

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 180
Calories from fat: 80
Fat: 8.9g
Saturated Fat: 2.6g
Cholesterol: 188mg Sodium: 307mg Carbohydrate: 13g
Fiber: 3.4g
Sugars: .4g
Protein: 14.4g

Tis The Season for Pumpkin

Pumpkin Spice Muffins

Active Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup each granulated sugar and packed light brown sugar
• 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tsp each ground cinnamon and vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1 tsp each baking powder and baking soda
• 3/4 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs plus 2 large egg whites
• 1 1/4 cups pumpkin purre
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries, halved

Maple Drizzle

• 2/3 cup confectioner's sugar
• 3 Tbsp pure maple syrup

Garnish: toasted pumpkin seeds

Preparation

1. Heat oven to 350F. You'll need 20 muffin cups lined with paper liners. Beat sugars, butter, spices, vanilla, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a large bowl with mixer on medium speed 2 minutes until blended.
2. Beat in eggs and whites. Beat in pumpkin puree on low speed until just combined. Alternately beat in flour, then milk, until just blended. Stir in berries.
3. Put 1/4 cup batter in each muffin cup. Bake 30 minutes or until toothpick inserted into centers comes out clean. Cool 5 minutes in pans on rack, remove from pans and cool completely.
4. Drizzle: Up to 4 hours before serving, stir ingredients in small bowl until smooth. Scrape into a small ziptop bag. Cut a small tip from one corner of bag and drizzle over cupcakes. Garnish with pumpkin seeds.

Yield

20 muffins

Nutritional Information

Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 177
Total Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 32mg
Sodium: 189mg
Total Carbohydrates: 31g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Protein 3g

OOOHHH....Vegetarian Minestrone

Vegetarian Minestrone

This zesty vegetable soup includes beans for fiber and protein.

 

Ingredients

• 1 tsp olive oil
• 3/4 cup chopped onion
• 3/4 cup diced celery
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/8 tsp coarsely ground pepper
• 3 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 cups diced zucchini
• 1 cup diced carrot
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp dried oregano
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 4 tsp Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup canned cannellini beans or other white beans, drained
• 1 can (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes, not drained
• 1/4 cup uncooked ditalini (very short tubular macaroni) or elbow macaroni

Directions

Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion; saute' 4 minutes or until lightly browned. Add water and next 10 ingredients (water through garlic); bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to medium-low and cook 25 minutes. Add pasta; cover and cook an additional 10 minutes. Ladle into individual bowls and sprinkle with cheese.

Yield

4 servings

Nutritional Information

Calories: 186
Fat: 3.3g
Carbohydrate: 30g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Protein: 9g
Fiber: 4.5g
Cholesterol: 1mg
Sodium: 689 mg

Or....Heart Healthy Pumpkin Soup

 Not too sure why the ? are there. But they're on the webpage too, make it up as you go. :-)

Heart Healthy Pumpkin Soup

This creamy soup is the perfect starter before dinner or is satisfying enough as the centerpiece of a meal when paired with a nourishing salad and whole grain bread.

Ingredients

• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 large yellow pepper, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• � teaspoon nutmeg
• � teaspoon cumin
• 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cut into small cubes
• 1 (29 ounce) can pumpkin without salt
• 2 cups low sodium chicken stock
• 1 cup apple juice or cider
• 2 cups low fat milk
• � teaspoon salt
• � teaspoon pepper
• � chopped fresh parsley
• � cup unsalted pumpkin seeds kernels, toasted

Preparation

1. Heat a heavy bottom pot over medium-high heat.
2. Saute' onion and yellow peppers in olive oil 5-7 minutes until caramelized; add garlic, nutmeg and cumin and continue cooking 3-5 minutes.
3. Stir in pumpkin, sweet potato, chicken stock and apple juice; simmer covered until sweet potato is tender, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Use a handheld blender (or pour in batches) to pour soup until smooth.
5. Add milk, salt and pepper; simmer but do not boil.
6. Serve, garnish with parsley and pumpkin seeds.

Yield

8 Servings

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 153
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 3mg
Sodium: 259mg
Carbohydrate: 24g
Fiber: 4g
Sugars: 12g
Protein: 6g


Recipe by Kathleen Zelman, MPH, RD

Creamy Pumpkin Soup

Pumpkins are for more than just carving! Low in calories and high in fiber, pumpkins are also loaded with disease-fighting antioxidants.

Ingredients

• Cooking spray
• 1 T olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced medium
• 3 stalks celery, diced medium
• 2 carrots, diced medium
• 2 cups pumpkin, fresh (cooked) or canned
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 tsp curry powder
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of clove
• 1 cup low-fat milk
• Salt, to taste (optional)

Directions

Spray the bottom of a large pot with cooking spray and add olive oil. Add onion, celery and carrots. Saute' for about 5 minutes to soften vegetables and bring out flavor. Add pumpkin, broth and spices. Bring to a boil and reduce heat. Simmer for 30 minutes and remove from heat. Let cool for 15 minutes. Pour soup in blender and return to pot. Whisk in low-fat milk and reheat before serving. Add salt if desired.

Yield

6 Servings

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 125
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Cholesterol: 2mg
Sodium: 245mg
Carbohydrate: 20g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Protein: 4g

Interesting "When people worry about math"... Article

When people worry about math, the brain feels the pain

Forever and a Day

I know it has been awhile since I posted something. My apologies. It's been super busy! But to tide you all over I found something I wrote awhile that I enjoyed re-reading...so I thought that I'd share it with you all.

When writing now, I have often found myself forcing to write the way I speak; due to the way people would react when reading something of mine. So I conformed. I use to write much differently then I spoke, more elaquant and slightly old fashioned. I was under the impression that we all did such things, however, to my suprise and dissatisfaction, I found I was wrong. Most people write how they speak and most people do not speak well at all. So I gave it some more thought; and I soon realized that I actually use to speak just as I wrote, elegantly and old fashioned, and sometimes very proper. It was my speaking that I had changed first, not my writing. I found that I had conformed to everyone's way of speaking and writing; and sometimes even their way of thinking, such a sad truth, a very long time ago. Also due to peoples reactions. That is when I had realized that I have to find who I truly am, not who they want me to be.

,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

It Still Lingers

I am feeling a bit better today then I was. I am still coughing a bit, have a clogged nose, and am tiring pretty easily, but other then that, I'm doing okay. Finished up the second week of term, barely. I missed two classes on Monday and work on both Monday and Tuesday. Lost hours unable to make up, which bites, but oh well...cut my loses and move on.

Due to the sickness and crazy busy schedule I haven't been able to keep up on gaming, watching my net shows, pod-casting or anything of said nature. Which bums me out, but I am hoping to get on a regular schedule within the next week.

I had to make up a core & cardio class that I missed, so I opted to play open volleyball last night from 6:30pm-8:00pm. It was crazy, I did have a lot of fun, which is strange for me to say, because I am not very big on sports. I am still clumsy as ever and hardly knew what was going on half the time, but I enjoyed myself and it was a good workout. They have it every Tuesday and Thursday at the same times, so I have been considering making it a thing to do.

Other than all that (which isn't much) nothing has been major. I will try to get a podcast out this weekend, if I can talk without squeaking, sounding hazy, or coughing. Hope all is well with everyone.

 ,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

On being sick

I have body aches that only a 70 year old should have, a stuffy nose that is trying its very best at running away,
itchy puffy eyes that are leaking in the worst possible way, a cough that stretches and scratches my chest and throat and a throbbing headache that makes me brain feel like it just may leak out of my eyeballs. Sounds hott right? lol, not unless hott means feverish. Oh yes, being sick is a pocket full of fun. No, no it's really not. Can you sense the sarcasm seeping off of the page? On top of it all my wisdom teeth won't cut me a break (no pun intended). I did everything I could think of to try to avoid catching this darn cold, but I still got it. Plus, I'm sick to my stomach about missing some work and school. Not a pleasant feeling while being ill. The only good thing about any of this is the fun feeling while on cold meds. Lol. Oh, I'm a mess. Needless to say, there probably won't be a new Chatter Bubbles until this next weekend. My apologies all. Hope everyone is in better condition then I am.

,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

Week One Down

This week was crazy! I don't know why I expected anything different though; after all it was the first week of fall term. I was so tired by the time I got home in the evenings that I didn't want to do anything. My schedule is bonkers this term. I am at work Mon-Thurs morning at 7:45-8:45, then off to math class, from there to Spanish. On Mon and Wed, I go from Spanish to creative writing, back to work, then off to core and cardio. It's a busy schedule, but way worth it.

I was finally able to get my major changed. I am now on track to a two year graphic design degree and will hopefully be working towards some certificates while I'm at it. So that is exciting.

Something else new, I finally got the R2D2 XBox! YAY! It is sooo magnificent! It even makes R2D2 noises when it turns on or off and when the disc tray opens and closes.

Other than that, it's pretty much it. I have a ton of homework to do tonight, which bites because I usually make it a rule to not do homework during weekend, but my week was so busy that I'll be making an exception this time. The good news is that I have a friend who is willig to help me out. I need to practice speaking and writing my spanish terms, it will be nice to have someone to practice with.

My podcast will be airing tomorrow (hopefully) not today, due to the craziness of this week.

,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

First Day of Fall Term

Hello all! I have made it through my first day of fall term. YAY! It's actually the beginning of my sixth term at RCC. That means my second term of my second year, but I still have a ways to go before I actually graduate. Everything went pretty well for the most part. Some good news and some bad news, but nothing I can't handle. I was able to get twenty hours a week at the library, so that's a plus. (student workers aren't allowed any more than twenty per week). Classes this term include Math, Spanish, Imaginative Writing and Core & Cardio. I have a full thirteen credits, but I am looking forward to the term. I am also looking forward to the weather cooling off a bit. I love Autumn!

 On another subject I have been playing Torchlight as of late, via computer and XBox arcade. It's amazing, I can't wait to finish it so I can move on to Torchlight 2. However, since I have started back up at college, the game might be put on the back burner for awhile. Speaking of XBox, I am trading my regular black XBox for the R2D2 XBox, YAY! Hopefully it will be in my hands by next week.

Also, today is Monday, so you know what that means, go watch The Flog....You know you want to.

Oh and before I go on my merry way, I finally made my own Tumblr page. You are more than welcome to view it, if you'd like, The World is Full of Inspiration.

That's all for now! Good night, day or morning!


,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

A Day of Stationa(e)ry

Hello all!
Long time no post, I realize. I really have no rhyme or reason for it, other than just not having much to blog about.

Yesterday was pretty fun. My friend and I (both of us volunteer at the library) went to the volunteer appreciation ice cream luau party. It was pretty fun. The ice cream was good, three basic flavors to choose from, and tons of toppings. Then there was entertainment, hula dancers...which was awesome and then we had the chance to learn how to hula ourselves. I have a few videos....I was thinking of posting some. Well, nevermid...blogger does not like my video format. So...no video. :-( I'll look into what I can do.

Today, I spent the day making stationary (yes, it is actually spelled stationery, long story). I was pretty happy with the outcome. I made an Adventure Time fanart one and a Regular Show fanart. If you'd like to see them, and maybe comment, feel free to check them out. Adventure Time Stationary & Regular Show Stationary.

Other then all that awesome sauce, I haven't been up to too much. This week is the last week of my break, soooo, that of course means that my busy life style will start back up on Monday morning at 6:00 am. I will still be sure to try to post as often as I can and keep up on my podcast, Chatter Bubbles, as well.

That's it for today! Until next time! :-)


,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

A Chill Weekend

Hello all, I hope that all is well. Not too much is going on for me this weekend. Just laundry, Supernatural, hanging out with kitties and friends...pretty low key. I am doing my best to try to beat the heat. I am sooo ready for Autumn to be here already. Last night I played a little bit of Skyrim, nearing completion on my first house and started building my second house. I ended up (via the game) adopting two children, one was through the adoption agency, while the other was a random happenstance of a situation. So now my character has two little girls and a wife. Cozy little family.

Monday, I am headed to a volunteer appreciation party. It should be fun, ice cream, music, entertainment, and so on. Other than that, there is not too much going on. I posted my second podcast, you are more then welcome to view it at Chatter Bubbles via Podomatic or the Chatter Bubbles Blogger.

Take care for now!

 ,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

Autumn is Nearing

Well, I am feeling a bit better. I am finally able to move around without too much pain. I have recently delved into Mass Effect 2, which has been very addicting. I only have about 7.5 hours into the game, but I am loving every moment of it.

I am here at the library again (community one, volunteering) and it has finally calmed down a little bit, which is a refreshing feeling. On Tues and Thurs we open at 2:00 pm, so by the time we open there are a ton of patrons ready to use a computer....and boy were they ever rowdy and pushy today.

I am super excited that it is nearing Autumn. Autumn is my favorite time of year! The leaves are changing brilliant colors, some trees even look like that have fire for leaves, the air is crisp, cool and clean. Every thing is simply wonderful during Autumn. In fact my photo of the day is based on Autumn and leaves the color of fire. It's big enough to use as a desktop too, which is a plus.

Speaking of fire, there was a pretty cute Written By A Kid yesterday. You should go and check it out. And if you haven't checked out The Flog yet, that one was fun, all about Dragon Con.

I am currently in the process of working on the next episode of my podcast, Chatter Bubbles. It is in the works and will hopefully be posted by tomorrow sometime.

That is all I have to report for now, if you haven't checked my Frequented Links lately, you might take a gander. There may be something new there. Till next time, take care.

 ,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

Sickly

Oh my, what a painful couple of days. I have been ill (for lack of a better word). So, hence the no posting of any kind. It hurt to breathe, to move, to do anything. In that time, besides trying not to pass out from the pain, I have been playing Skyrim, finished the TV series of Buffy, and slept...a lot. Meaning, that there really isn't much to blog about for now. I posted a new pic of the day and now I'm in the middle of watching a different movie called Timer with Emma Claufield (whose also in Buffy) in it. That being said, I am going back to my movie. Enjoy the day, night, evening, whatever it may be for you. Oh and don't forget that today is Monday, go watch The Flog...You know you want to.


 ,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

Another Day Goes By

But it's not just any day, it's first Friday. lol. First Friday is something that our town and actually many other towns do here in good ol' Oregon, not sure about other states though. All the downtown shops stay open until about 9pm and show art work from featured artists from the area. It's sort of fun  and gets people out of the house. The only bad part about it is all of the kids and teeny-boppers running around without parental supervision. But,it's not too bad...wow, that makes me sound like an ol' fart.

Today, I am (what a surprise) here volunteering at the library. Haven't done too much today, just parused online for a bit, played on Podomatic, Facebook, Pinterest, Geek&Sundry, the usual internet spots that I visit often. Most can be found on my link list.

I am having a lot of fun with Podomatic. It's been interesting and a bit of a pain at first, merely because of my computer issues, which I have seemed to taken care of for the most part. My first podcast was finally posted which you can read all about and listen to at Chatter Bubbles, my other blog created just for my podcast.

I am finished with my first week off of school and work, and I can say that it has been a mix of fun, comforting, relaxing and peaceful; but also boring, irritating, and sort of an inconvenience. But hopefully things will look up in the next week to come.
  
 ,___,

{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

Sock it UP!

A minicast I did using Podomatic. Just something fun, nothing serious.

Sock it UP!

 ,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn 

Having a Thrilling Thursday?

No, not thrilling, sort of foggy actually. I am here at the library again, volunteering. (Yes, I love libraries.) Let's see today has not been filled with much activity, nor was last night. I did however, make another stationary (which is actually spelled stationery) piece last night. You can find it and others on my DA site....if anyone is interested. I am trying to find a way to get prints so I can start selling them, so if anyone knows of a good printing site or place, I'd love to hear about it.

In other news, I have looked into starting a podcast, I know that I said that I would start a video blog, and I most likely will, once I can get my computer situation figured out. But for now, which is also not working out very well, I am trying this podcasting thing. So far all I have is a site with Podomatic at Thought Bubbles. However, nothing is posted yet. I recorded the first episode last night, which was more fun and relaxing than I thought it would be. I am working on getting the episode posted, but it's a slow going process. I will be sure to keep you all informed.

As far as the rest of the day, not too much planned. I am going over to a friend's house to hang out with them and my kitties and maybe play some video games and watch some netflix....oh! or play a card game.

 ,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn 

One of Those Days

Well, not much is going on today. I am on my third day of my break in between terms. I wrote a poem for the first time in awhile, but it's not too happy, nor is it too sad. It's mixed and emotional. I'm sitting here volunteering at the community library, from 11am - 2pm. It's been busy off and on, but not too terrible today, nah, it's never really terrible.

Let's see, lately, I have delved a bit into playing Mass Effect 2, Skyrim's new DLC Hearthfire (no, I have not yet downloaded the first DLC Dawnguard yet), Street Fighter X Tekken, and a few others. All have been worth the time and effort and I recommend them all.

These next few weeks may be a bit difficult for me, with not much to do, I may go crazy. I am not working or going back to school until September 24th 2012. I am not one of those people who can spend all day doing nothing and the community library won't need me everyday. I am usually out of town during this down time, however recent events (well, not so recent anymore) have changed the usual on goings of this time. If I had a computer of my own, I'd spend some time putting together some stationary and playing around on Photoshop and/or Illustrator.

Who knows what the next few weeks may bring? I just tried to buy some tickets for Leet UP and couldn't! So that makes me a sad panda! I am going to try it again tonight, so hopefully it will work. *fingers crossed*

 ,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

Ceramics Post III

Hello there, all of you fellow bloggers and readers. Let's try posting the last of my ceramics, shall we? Or rather, shall I? lol. All that is left are the bowls, which I had a lot of help on (thanks to my teacher Phil, they didn't turn out like poo.) And also my wall hanging thingy.

Bowls by Wheel:
As I might have mentioned before, the wheel was not my favorite. Every time that I tried to make bowls, they would turn out lopsided, holey, or mush. But with the help of my fablous teacher I was able to go home with two. I really like how the glazing turned out on them.

Wall Hanger Thingy:
This next one was not something that we had to do, I just did it for fun. I'm not sure if any of you have seen those planters that hang on the wall...but that was my inspiration for this one. Mine is way to small to put a plant in, but my mom use to have one about the same size that we kept a pen and small note pad in for "while you were out" messages....so that is what I was thinking I may do with mine. It was made by using the slab and pinching technique. The glazing didn't turn out quite the way I wanted it to, but it grew on me. The big design on the top half was made using a stamp, as were some on the bootm half, while some were carved in.

And that is all for now, thanks for taking the time to view my hand crafted items. Hope you all have enjoyed these posts. If you did like them, I don't wish to get anyone's hopes up, but there may be more in the future...It all depends on how next term goes. :-) Take care everyone!

P.S. If you enjoy nature photos and beautiful animals, check out Nature Stock Library

 ,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

Ceramics Post II

As promised, here are some more finished ceramics. Apologies on the delay, posting isn't that easy when you do not have computer access 24/7. I miss my computer. :-( Anywho, on to the fun stuff.

Slab Vase: (1st attempt)
This vase (and the 2nd one) was made using the slab technique. It's where you take an amount of clay that you plan on working with and roll it out flat and even to the thickness you'd like using a rolling pin or the machine called the slab roller. Afterwards, when glazing ... we used cone 10 glazes. I didn't like too much how the outside turned out, but I really like the inside. After awhile though, I warmed up to the whole thing.

 

 

Slab Vase: (2nd attempt)

This one was made in the same fashion the first one was, I just chose to get a bit more creative. I really like how this one turned out, I am happy with it. I cannot wait to use it for some beautiful flowers. :-)

Slab Plate: (1st &2nd attempt)

Again, these were made in the same fashion that the slab vases were. I enjoy the one with more of a wall to it because of the way the colors and design turned out, but I did not like the little mishap with the black on one of the leaves. The colors on the purple one turned out nice to. The second one (purple) differs in a few ways, but the major difference is that I added what they call a foot to the bottom of it.

 

That's it for this post, because I am having troubles with the picture uploader...(again!). So I am going to break this into another one. Leaving you all with a total of three, 3, III, ceramic posts. Hope you all have enjoyed. If you have any questions or comments feel free to leave them and I will be sure to get back to you. Till next time!

,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn



A Slight Let Down...

My apologies, there is not going to be much on this post. I am tired and sore and in a fuzzy-floaty head space, it is last day of term, and I sadly have no new pictures of the other ceramic pieces. I never made it back to my family's place last night, by the time I was done baking zucchini bread with a friend for tonights potluck in ceramics class, it was too late to go over to the fam's place. On top of it, I didn't get much else done last night, as I was worn down. *heavy sigh* However, shed no tears, I will be recuperating and getting the rest of the ceramics posted soon. I am not making any promises, but I am hoping that it will be sometime tomorrow. For now, I did post a new pic of the day from google pics of a beautiful Wales sunset.

,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

Ceramics Post 1

So, I recieved some pieces back last night from ceramics class, but not all. I am still waiting on my second slab plate and second slab vase to finish firing. Hopefully they will be done on Thursday. But for now I can show and tell what I do have.

Cat or Dog?:
For our second assignment of the term, after the Raku Pinch Pot we did, we then had to use the pinch technique for shaping a cat or dog. I with out a doubt chose cat, it turned out funny looking and I did not much care for how the glazing turned out either. The pink turned out too close to skin color for me and the green had too much blue, also I forgot to paint in my whiskers black. But here she is, laugh if you want, it's okay, I did. LOL.

Coil Pot:
Our coil project this term was to make a pot. Coil projects are made from just that, coils. You add some clay (rather, a lot) into a hand operated machine called the extruter and it then creates coils for yolu based on the size and shape you have picked. Our assignment was to chose a historical piece (50 years or older) and base our idea of it. Mine (which you have seen in a previous post while leather hard) did not turn out to be anything like what I had origanally schecked out, but then again that is the story of my life. It has to be at least 12 inches in height (mine reaches 13-14, I believe) and made just from coils. Afterwards we glazed and fired. Final piece:

Cups made by Wheel:
I did not get a chance to fall in love with the wheel (think of the movie Ghost, it's not like that.) But I am hoping that one day we will fall in love. For now, we just fell in like. There are three types of cups that we had to make; convex, concave and straight. Well, four actually, the last was a style of our choice. Then we had to make handles using the slab, pull, and extruder technique. I didn't have any rhymn and reason when I was making mine, or glazing them for that matter, so none of them match. However, I think that is part of the charm:

And there ya have it, the ones that I have gotten back and have pictures of so far. There will most likely be two more ceramics posting, as I have my first slab vase and slab plate at home (and I am still waiting on my seconds ones). I will try to remember to get pictures of the ones I have at home tonight, so I can have another post tomorrow.

In the meantime to keep you all busy, don't forget to check out The Flog and Written By A Kid. Also if you like cats and have a facebook page, check out And My Cat.

That's all for now!

,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

Just A Quick Post

So, I haven't too much time before I have to head to class, but I just wanted to post a quick little something; trying to keep up with blogging every day (I have noticed it does make me feel a bit better). I am excited today, because (hopefully) we get the rest of our ceramic pieces today, all fired and pretty. One slab vase that I am particularly excited for is the second one I made. This is it before it was fired and glazed and fired again. This stage of it is called "leather hard".

And again it is sideways... just turn your head, lol.

I just love it! I glazed it in three different colors. But I'll keep that on the DL as for now, I'll just post a pick when I get it back. I have gotten most things back, which I also plan to be posting pics of sometime. Maybe I will just do a finished ceramics blog and post all of them. :-) That's an idea. I wish I could take the class next term, but sadly it does not fit in my schedule. I had so much fun in that class, even though the wheel and I never had our moment of falling in love. It is true, I did prefer to do things without the wheel. I felt like I had more control. Plus, it was more hands on for me without the wheel.

Oh, also, a quick little side note:
I am planning on starting a weekly vlog (video blog). It is going to mostly contain information about library sciences, such as helping people with research techniques, writing formats and so on. But there is also going to be a bit of fun added to it, such as that weeks fave link or book of the week or randoms of the week, ect. It is in the make up stages now, but I will be sure to let you all know when the first episode is posted. Also, I am in the market for a name for the show. If you have any ideas .... feel free to share and if I use your idea, I will be sure to give credit where credit is due. :-)

,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

Last Week of Summer Term!

First off, YAY! that it is the last week. However, there is one downfall to it, I don't work for three weeks, which means no income for that long as well...But that is usually how it is between terms and I am sure that I will manage.

Today *sigh* oh today, what a way to start off the last week. My day was a bit stressful, and I am currently unsure how my evening is going to go. I am avoiding going home at the moment (yes, still live with the fam), but that's actually not why the avoidance today. On my journey to work this morning my gas light came on, (side note: something to know about my car; it is old and falling apart, the gas gage does not work, along with a hand full of other problems, so I have to watch for the gas light and/or count miles...super fun <---- said with sarcasm and maybe a roll of the eyes) well, it came on not too far from home (starting point), which means I used more gas then if it would have come on closer to school (destination), obviously. I am hoping that I have enough gas to make it to the gas station, only to put a mere and measly $8.00 in the tank and hope that it lasts till Friday (payday). *sigh* So, I am sitting here at the college library, avoiding my predicament.

The good news is that while avoiding the previous, I was finally able to get my last discussion post done for LIB127. EBSCOhost was not working this weekend for home users, so I was afraid (for a blip in time) that I was not going to be able to get that very last assignment done, but I did. YAY! That means that I only have a test in Core & Cardio, and two more ceramics classes and summer term will be finished. I am pretty sure I might have gotten all A's this term too, which makes me very a very happy camper. :-D (hmm, I wonder where that term came from?)

Well, I am off to face my challange for the evening. Let us hope I can defeat this one and see it through till the end of the week.

,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

Sunday, No Fun Day...Let's Change That

Today is Sunday. I have nothing much to do and have for the most part finished my nothing much. So, I guess I am at a point where I am bored. But in order to put this boardom aside, I am checking out a few podcasts that have potential. One is Good Job Brain and the other is No More Whoppers. I quite like the No More Whoppers one. Both are worth checking out.

So, with not much on the agenda I think I may leave you all with those podcasts and head towards Skyrim. It gets terribly hot in my samll upstairs bedroom with a 42 inch flat screen tele and XBox 360 running, but I am thinking it may be worth it today. I has been way too long.

,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

Mix Between Funk & Daze

Today and the past couple of days have been a little weird. I cannot necessarily say that it has been bad, but I cannot say they have been the best either. I am (as the title sates) in a mix between a funk and a daze. I'm sleepy, but I'm wired. I 'm worried, but I'm calm. I'm everything all at once. I also cannot help but feel like something is terribly wrong. You know those times where you feel like the world is giving you a funny and disappointing look because you did something that was wrong, but you don't really know what you did? Well, whether you know of the feeling or not, that's where I am at right now. I love making people smile and happy, however I have not felt like I have done that very well. I have seen their smiling faces, but I don't know, maybe I'm just being to hard on myself. Or maybe I am just over thinking things like I tend to do. I have too many worried questions floating around in my head and no one to really talk with about them, plus, they're probably stupid and a factor of over thinking and being female.

On a side note, I was introduced to another awesome website by Inkphantom (wonderful artist). It's called Cracked. Actually he had introduced me to a series on there called After Hours, which I fell in love with. It's pretty awesome show where four people get together and speak of comics, movies, memes, the best of, the worst of and so on. I do believe that all you fellow net webisode lovers and nerds out there will enjoy it.

,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

It has been....

 WAY TOOO LONG since I have posted anything. I have not only let myself down, but I let the few readers I have down. :-( My apologies. I have so much to catch up on and very little time, so, let's see what we can get written down today.

First off, I have been super busy with the end of term creeping up. It ends August 30th and I am trying to make sure that I have all of my ducks in order (or in a row, however that is said). I am an "A" freak. :-/ I only have two discussion boards left to post on for Library Science class, and then I have to finish out core & cardio and ceramics. I am a bit saddened that I am unable to take ceramics next term, but the teacher said that I could stop on by sometime and make a few things ... so that's exciting.

As for this last weekend. It was pretty good. I got to hang out with the cutest three year old and her dad (one of my favorite people ever).We sang songs (or rather I did), we named colors, made animal sounds, played dragons and all sorts of fun things. We went up to Ashland to play in the creek and the park, then had dinner at Red Robin. It was fun and the food was delicious.  I had their veggie burger, as I am a vegetarian...and no that is not changing any time soon and I am happy being one and no I do not wish to explain how I get my protein .... look it up if you want to know what it takes to be a vegetarian and no, I am not a vegan, that's a whole different thing (I couldn't live without cheese).

In other news, I was introduced to another amazing website called Threadless. They sell awesome t-shirts that are designed by people from all over. Check it out! They also sell iPhone cases, bags and pouches, books and lots of other fun and zany items. Couldn't ask for more. :-D

This weeks' The Flog was pretty cool. The skills part was about archery, fun, with elf ears. Today is Wednesday, so that also means that another episode of Written By A Kid is out (hopefully, I just checked and no update yet.)... which I have yet to see but am so looking forward to. And if I am not mistaken, I do believe the fifth installment of Save The Supers is out today (also, just checked, and sad day, no update on that either, but the day isn't over). So there is a bunch to go check out and peruse through.

Until next time, happy internetting everyone. And if you find anything worth sharing feel free to comment. :-)

,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

OH MY GOODNESS!

So there is a reason for the photo of the day, and that's because I found (on G+) this amazing no bake recipe...and that picture is it! Here, check it out! No Bake Tea Cup Cookies. They seem amazing and the fact that it was inspired by Willy Wonka is even more awesome. :-) It's the simple things in life that matter.

Also, today is Wednesday, so you all know what that means... A new episode of Written By A Kid was aired today. YAY! It was adorable! I just love it. It's called Cold East, go check it out. Monday's episode of The Flog was pretty awesome as well, I recommend checking that one out too. :-)

In other new news, I found another website that I am falling in love with, My Damn Channel. One of the things that can be found on the site is a show I may have to start watching called, Save The Supers. It's a web series directed by Sandeep Parikh from The Guild. You can find webisode one or issue one at The Super Force Versus The Bottom Line. The rest, only goes up to four at the moment, can be found by scrolling down the bottom of the linked page.

I do believe that is all for tonight. I wish you all well and hope that you are finding ways to keep cool in the crazy heat. :-)

,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn
   

Summer Term Nearing The End

Oh what to say, what to say about the past few days? I had a delightful weekend. I do hope all of yours was great as well. I laughed, smiled, enjoyed the company of friends, had good food, played old video games, enjoyed a dollar Dutch Bros Coffee and lots of other things. :-) The weekend was as weekends should be, fun and relaxing. I even caught up on posting some of my newer poems online with DA and Writer's Cafe. Both of which are amazing sites for writers and artists.

I was able to finish up the last of my homework for my HD100 class tonight, now all I have left are a few for my LIB127 and finishing my PE class. Yay! We are down to the last few weeks of term now. Last day of summer is August 30. Which reminds me, I have my fall term schedule all figured out, so when I get it typed out, I'll be posting it. Which will hopefully be soon. I am looking at Math, Spanish, and Imaginative Writing for next term, with an added PE class as well. Have to keep up with the exercise, makes me feel ten times better.

Had a chance to watch some more Supernatural tonight with a friend. Which was awesome. He hadn't seen any of it so we started from the very beginning and went from there, not all tonight of course. I believe we are on season three now, so we still have a ways to go. I am excited to see it through to the end because they have come out with the series in comic book/graphic novel form. I have also chosen to watch Buffy: The Vampire Slayer from the very beginning for the same reason, to catch up on the graphic novel stories. Both of which can be found via Netflix at the moment if anyone is interested....the television series that is, not the graphic novels, those I am sure can be found at your local comic book store, like ours Iguana Comics.  :-D

Wishing you all a good evening, day or night. I will try to be better at keeping up on the posts and/or photos of the day more often.

,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

Tumbleweed Anyone?

Have any of you ever heard of the Tumbleweed Tiny House Company? Well, if not...you should. :-) It's awesome! They design and create these tiny houses under 1000 sq ft. The use of space it simply amazing and awe inspiring. A few years back, just for fun, I started designing small spaces for studio type apartments and loved seeing what I was able to do with such a small space, but Tumbleweed takes it to a whole new level that I could have only imagined. You can literately just pick up and go with some of them, absolutely fantastic! I'll admit some of them are way to small for my taste, but I am almost certain that there are people out there who will fall in love with the 300 or less sq ft ones.

Also, if you enjoy design and crazy houses you should take a gander at House Logic. They have top tiny houses, top weird houses, top crazy houses, shocking exterior paint jobs, and much, much more! Another great website for the designer in all of us. :-)

Not enough? A couple more for you design lovers out there: design.org & design sponge. And those are just the tip of the ice berg, wait until I crack open the box for graphic design. *GLEE*

Have a tubular Thursday all! That's right I'm bringing it back. Tubular. LOL.
,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn 

Lagging Wednesday

What a slow day. Slow, but pretty good for the most part. Nothing too major happened, I did get my nails filled which was nice .... and filed down. They have to stay short due to ceramics class, otherwise it is pretty difficult to do much with the wheel.

Next month my nail artist is going to try something new using peacock feathers, I am super excited to see how it all turns out, should look amazing. If I remember, I'll try to post a pic of the final product of them next month.

Today is Wednesday, so that means that Written By A Kid has a new episode, go ahead click on the link to watch it, and allow that smile to grace your face and laughter to fill the air. I know that you know that you want to. :-D

So I was recently introduced to a very cool website that I do believe is going to make the links frequented list. If you all have time (even if you don't) it's totally worth a gander...wondering and waiting for it aren't you? The Fox is Black <----- There it is!

Also, if you haven't checked out my links frequented list (if for nothing else but the name of the first link), you should, because they are amazing and deserve attention.

Other news for today, I have been given the go ahead for the next eight terms in college, which means I don't have to ask an advisor for permission to enroll anymore, they let go of my hand. YAY! I have changed my "major", what a surprise, I think all students do at least once... no matter how sure they think they are. I am now working towards architecture and graphic design...calls for another YAY! I have to work with getting a general studies degree while doing it though, so I guess I'll see how that goes.

I recently got another tattoo (I think I am up to 12 or 13 now). But this one is super, super exciting! Because it is the first major start on my full back tattoo. And I have a wonderful artist (thanks inkphantom!!!) who is designing it all, also a wonderful tattoo artist whom I trust fully. Which makes things all the more better. I would post pictures, but the photo thing is acting up again (took forever to load the nails) and it's not done yet, the tat that is. :-) Maybe, I'll post pics of each of my tats with the stories behind them...would you all like that? Hmm, I'll mull that over.  

,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

Raku Pot

- My Raku Pinch Pot -

Made by Ashley Lynn July 2012

Raku is a type of Japanese firing. It is usually done at about 1800 degrees. After fired it is then removed by metal tongs and placed in a metal tin (such as a small trashcan) with newspaper; wait till it catches fire and then quickly place the lid on top to close. We left it in there for about 10 - 15 min and then took the pot out and submerged it in water for a few minutes. Afterward you clean it off and there you have it.

The pot was made by using a pinching technique. We made ours from Stoneware (a type of clay/stone - Dakota White ^10). Pinch pots are usually bowls or cups made by using just the hands and various forms of pinching the clay to the form and shape that you want it to be in.

I chose to have no real uniform to my bowl and went with several different textues on the outside to create a unique design.

,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

YAY! Monday!

It's Monday, guess what that means? It means that The Flog has a new episode! Check it out, you know you want to. Also, it means that it is one day closer to Tuesday, I love Tuesdays and Thursdays for a number of reasons. One of them being that I have ceramics class, but my most favorite part of those days are the nights. :-) I love, love, love those nights!

I haven't much else to say today, other than happy Monday! I hope that everyone has a marvelous Monday! My weekend was wonderful, fabulous actually! I love my weekends, especially as of late. Makes me smile and happy and subsides all worry. I get a chance to feel like me. Same reason I love Tuesday and Thursday nights. Oh! On a side note, I have a picture of my Raku pinch pot from ceramics...Which I can't seem to get posted, so I'll have to post it later. Sorry for the tease all.

I'm off to Core & Cardio class now, let's see if working out will wake me up a little more, the coffee just doesn't seem to be doing it today.

,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

Welcoming The Weekend!

This week has been chocked full of surprises of both good and bad, bumps in the road, obstacles to struggle through and and array of other things. Needless to say, I cannot wait to get my next tattoo, there is always a sense of relief when getting one, a release of tension. I am super excited about this next one. It is beautiful and done by the same artist as my last tattoo. Well, both of the same artists actually. lol.

It has been super busy today at the library. We are one down person today, so it is just me manning the information desk. Of course the day that we are short one person it gets super busy. If both people were here it'd be pretty slow. Such is the way of life though.

I really don't have too much to blog about today. This week's Written By A Kid on Geek & Sundry was fabulous. I just love that show. Such a wonderful idea! Letting kids tell stories and putting motion and video to it! If you haven't seen it, you should! They post a new one each Wednesday, they also post a new episode each week on Moday of Felicia Day's The Flog! Which is also awesome and amazing and worth checking out.

Well I am off to help clos up and then headed to possibly get a tattoo and then a jewerly party with my mother and one of my favorite people ever!

,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

Head Space = Conflicted

Head Space = Conflicted

Yes I repeated that, because it bears repeating. I am at some amazing times in my life and  some rough times in my life. There is not a single apartment complex in this town that I can afford that will accept cats, plus my family is getting annoyed by them. Bottom line - I have to get rid of my babies that I have had for just over ten years now. This is a bit emotionally devastating, especially since I am having an even more difficult time finding someone I know to take them. They can't be split and it needs to be someone that I know I can trust to take good care of them and love them the way they deserve to be.

I know this, I cannot stay where I am now for too much longer. The plus side of finding the cats a new, loving home is that I wouldn't have to be at that place so often. I could start staying with friends more often in order to not worry about bothering my family. A bother to my family. wow. I wonder if I am the person that they think of when someone says that there's one in every family? I wouldn't doubt it. I don't know, I'm just hurt and hate the thought of getting rid of my kitties. Like I wrote earlier....

Head Space = Conflicted

,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

I Don't Even Know

The title sort of explains where I'm at right now. I want to sit down and write something and/or be creative in some way, but I feel...I don't know. My head feels elsewhere, although I'm not to sure where that elsewhere place is..(feeling the need to make a Marrowind joke/reference).

This is maddening, it's like I can feel all of the creativity just seeping over the edges, waiting to come pouring out, but alas, I am left with nothing other than the feeling. Feeling like I am going to burst from the seams and go artistically crazy.

Perhaps a good dose of exercise class will help...but that's the thing, I don't want to exercise out my creativity... lol, read that again, exercise out my creativity, like it's some sort of demon. Oh for the love of peanut butter, it's no demon.

Maybe, I'll work a bit more on my apron today, or type out the few poems I had written lately. Oye, I need to do something. This drive, but no time or release, is maddening.

,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

A Short Post

Things I accomplished today:

• Made it to work
• Made it to class
• Finished homwork
• Took brother driving
• Went grocery shopping
• Overheated a bit
• Ate way too much
• Posted new pic of the day
• Took care of the kitties
• Folded laundry
• and much, much more.....

I'm tired, so this is going to be short and sweet. Last week I added some new things to my ceramics apron and forgot to share a pic, so here it is:

Yay! It's right side up!

The end... good night all!

P.S. Those of you who haven't seen the rest or forgot what it may look like, please refer to And Yet Another Week Begins blog post.

,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn

The Five W's & Ponderings

Why?
- Do I allow myself to get in my head about silly things?
- Do I over think things a bit more than one should?
- Do I allow panic attacks when I know everything will work out?

Who?
- Can be counted on in times of need or hardship?
- Is really the boss of my life?
- Says that people aren't capable of being happy?

What?
- Is it that keeps me from my dreams?
- Is it that keeps me from going insane?
- Will keep my mind at ease and things at bay?

Where?
- Do I suppose I'll be in five years?
- Do my silly head thoughts come from?
- Is it that my head goes, when I'm away?

When?
- Will people learn to let go of the past and just learn from it?
- Will people allow others to live without judging them?
- Will things begin to make sense and stay that way?

Most, if not all of these, I should have the answers to. Some I know for sure of the answer, while others linger a bit in mocking tones. Some of the answers should even be quite obvious and I am sure that we have all asked ourselves these at least once in our lives. However, do we ever have a definite answer to any of them? Are all the answers subject to change? And if so, why do we worry about the questions so much? Sometimes it seems like it is just question after question. I imagine a little stick figure drowning in a sea of question marks at times, because at times that is how I feel. Just this little insignificant being with none of the answers. With no help for no one, not even myself.

I use to ponder on the meaning of life and what the world  or even the universe may have in store, but now I try to just stay focused on one day at a time. However, sometimes in this place it is difficult to live that way, focused on one day at a time. It can seem so overwhelming here, exhausting, and like I may never be good enough. When my head reaches that point, it sort of begins to spiral down and further down, until beyond rock bottom. It is very difficult to stay afloat in a boat with several holes in the bottom of it.

I am, by no means complaining. I have been pretty lucky, especially as of late. As much as I dislike using this next phrase, I have been blessed these past several weeks on a few things and one is of higher importance then some. Sometimes, I often wonder if the fact that I am a lover and not a fighter has anything to do with how things might effect me...and life...and so on. It seems like the lovers of this world tend to also be the thinkers; which is sort of strange to me, I would think that the lovers would lean more towards feeling and less thinking. Who knows, maybe we are all loosing our ability to truly feel and perhaps that's why we always over think things.

Or... Perhaps I am just tired. I wonder why life can't be good in all areas at the same time? For me, I find that if life is great and seemingly perfect in one area of my life, it's not so much in most other areas. Maybe it's a universal balance thing.

What's even more strange to me at the moment is that normally I would reread this and think that I wasn't in a very good space, but not tonight. Tonight, when reading this over, I'm...well, I'm not worried, nor am I thinking I'm in a bad space. I kind of feel very impartial to it all. I wonder what that says about me?

,___,
{O.o} "Whhoo-Whhoo, What-what?"
/)__) Sincerely,
-"--"- Ashley Lynn