This is what happens . . .

. . . when you have a smarty pants cat that likes to get attention (cat in question not shown in picture).

Warning: Toxic Fumes

Just in case you missed the day in school where they tell everyone to read & follow the warning labels. Yeah, if the can says to use in a "well ventilated area" use the darn product in a WELL VENTILATED AREA. And no, in the basement directly under the intake vent IS NOT a good idea.

I just spent the last hour with all the windows and doors in the house thrown wide open so the cats and I wouldn't pass out. (Fortunately TheHusband is at class so he didn't have to suffer.) I still have the upstairs windows open and am typing this post up while wearing my winter coat.

What a girl won't do for crafts! LOL

Life as a Dinosaur: The Spoon Theory

(present time) I'm not feeling particularly creative or ambitious right now, because I used way too many "spoons" this past weekend and am still recharging from that. You're probably thinking "What the heck does using spoons have to do with needing to recharge?", and I don't blame you. Here's the best explanation I've ever found to explain what it's like to live with a chronic illness or disability. You should go read it, then come back! The author, Christine Miserandino, has lupus, but her Spoon Theory is so spot on to my own experience.

Dreaming . . .

Taken at Como Conservatory on May 5, 2006

. . . of sunny days and bright colors.

Tripleberry Crisp

The recent return to "winter" weather has left me feeling miserable, both physically and mentally, and I've been craving something to help lift my spirits. But, however much I'd love me some triple chocolate cake, it would just leave me feeling worse in the end. So I decided to make this yummy dessert that cured my "feeling sorry for myself" sweet tooth, but didn't leave me feeling even sorrier for myself (for caving into the mood induced craving).