softest, yummiest sugar cookies ever

I know...more food. You wouldn't know I'm pregnant now would you? I finally made my mom's fabulous almond sugar cookies this year, and they were excellent! I think I may even make some more tomorrow. Have at it!

Almond Butter Sugar Cookies

Ingredients:
1 1/2 cup sugar
1 cup butter or margarine
1 8-oz. pkg cream cheese softened
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp almond extract
3 1/2 cups flour
1 tsp baking soda

Directions:
Cream together the sugar, butter and cream cheese until fluffy. Add the egg, vanilla and almond extract. Then, add the flour and baking powder. Chill for 1 -1 1/2 hours or until firm. Roll out chilled dough on floured surface to 1/2 inch thickness. Cut into shapes with cookie cutters. Bake on an un-greased cookies sheet at 375 degrees for 8-10 minutes. Frost with powdered sugar icing.

Powdered Sugar Icing:

Ingredients:
2 cups powdered sugar
2 tbs butter or margarine, softened
1/4 tsp almond extract
2 tbs milk

Directions:
Beat together powdered sugar and butter. Then, add the almond extract and 2 to 4 tbs milk or until icing is of spreading consistency.

winter mandarines

I don't know if it's a pregnancy craving, or just my love of oranges- but I am seriously addicted to the winter tangerines! I find myself going through at least a box a week. That's anywhere from 5-7 a day! Baby might come out looking a bit orange.

And, I've learned that I have to pick them out at the store myself. I am pretty much a professional now when it comes to smelling and feeling the ones that will be not too sweet, not too firm, not too sour- but juuuust right. I also trick myself into thinking that all of this fruit balances out all of the fabulous Christmas sugar. Hey, makes sense- right?

finch baby poll

Boy or Girl? Birthday arrival? Weight? The numbers are in for the Finch baby poll! The official medical due date is Jan 12th. We're still figuring out the winner's prize. Let me know if you think of anything good. T minus less than 4 weeks! (Click on chart to zoom)

the gear

It's actually quite amazing how much gear such a little person requires. They can't even lift their own head up by themselves, yet they need so much stuff! Well, they probably just need a few of these things, and mom wants the rest. Shhhhhhhh. Either way you look at it- a baby in the belly makes a mother goose in the nest. Here is the loot so far for our baby chick. Getting so excited to meet this little face!

35 weeks

I'm down to the home-stretch! 5 more weeks and counting...if I can make it. I ordered the stroller today, put together a shelving unit for the nursery, washed all of the newborn clothing & blankets, completely organized my colorbutton office, baked cupcakes, and finished all of the Christmas wrapping. These days, I feel like I may go into labor just running up and down the stairs a million times. I AM starting to feel ready though; ready to nibble on tiny cheeks, to get my body back in shape, to take way too many pictures, and to be up in the middle of the night with my very first lovey.

baby shower + thanksgiving

I'm feeling behind these days! So much is going on and I'm just trying to keep up - lately with my box of kleenex and congestion medicine.

Our trip to Anchorage was all that it usually is and more! Thanksgiving break is all about the cold, snow, cinnamon rolls, Great Alaska Shootout basketball, moose, lounging, going to movies, and burrowing in with family. This year, there was definitely more burrowing for this mama goose of a belly at 34 weeks!

Mom and Megan put together such a fun baby shower. The colorful cupcakes and the whimsical decorations lit up the house! We got some very cute gifts and lots of fabulous gift cards to stock up on all of the baby musts.

Then came Thanksgiving: mom and her baking, kids and their card games, dad and his sports talking, me and my parade watching, Jonathan and his coffee drinking, family and their pajama wearing. It couldn't have been better!

calm before the storm

Jonathan: Do you think we need a nightlight in our room so you can see what you're doing when you get up with the baby in the night?

Hannah: You mean so you can see what you're doing?

Gotta love it.

belly babysitter

It's been great being home in Anchorage so far for the holiday. My little sister Leah follows the belly around wherever it goes and has asked that I inform her of every time the baby kicks. She doesn't want to miss a thing. It's very cute.

And, I thought the belly had a big shadow before!

32 weeks

T minus 8 weeks until blast-off! This baby is getting ready. I can just feel it. The kicks are enormous- ones that shake my whole balance from side to side – ones that make my stomach look like a morphing alien – ones that feel like they may be dislocating my right rib.

Where the belly once felt like a big round piñata with some things moving around inside, it now feels like a huge and heavy water balloon weighing down on my pelvis, and stretching my spine inward. It used to be a little squishy. Now, it’s as tight as a drum!

Sleeping is not what it ever was before. I can’t get comfortable to save my life. And, the annoyance of positioning pillows under my belly, between my knees, and behind my back (not to mention the one I use for laying my head on) has gotten a bit out of control. There almost isn’t any room left for Jonathan in the bed. Heaven forbid I have to go to the bathroom! I lay there and think to myself, “Do I really have to go that bad? I just got every pillow in its right place, and I’ll never get them all perfectly positioned again! (Insert curse word here).”

The one relief that is tried and true has been my beautifully big bath tub. I take at least one bath a day (sometimes two). And, if I soak in the warm water just before bed, it helps me sleep. The pressure jets are also a lifesaver for the lower back. I’m actually quite interested to see our water bill for the month of November.

Jonathan has been so good about my whole uncomfortable state! He gives me great back rubs, deals with my somewhat-more-frequent emotional breakdowns, and sudden addiction to mini tangerine oranges. And he also researched the best place in town for me to go get a prenatal massage tomorrow. Can’t wait! Really.

I’m getting just a little nervous about sitting on the plane for 4 straight hours on my way to Anchorage on Saturday. I can barely sit still for an hour during church these days. I’m all about the isle seat for this one.

Well, there you have it. It’s my day for complaining. And, tomorrow may be too.

My recent secret thoughts: How do fat people deal with these back issues all of the time!? And, swollen ankles? And, how do they lace up their own shoes? Do they not shave certain parts of their bodies any longer? I don't know how they could! I can't even see what I'm doing any longer when I'm shaving in the shower. I guess cankles wouldn't be as much of a problem if you could never even see your ankles.

What can I say? I've found a new appreciation for the large & in-charge.

jonathan's hip happity day

Another year here - another year passed. We had a great time celebrating Jonathan's 34th birthday on Sunday! His dad was here in town for a few days and got to spend some fun time with us as well.

As usual, Jonathan isn't all that thrilled about getting older. So, I really enjoy the challenge of coloring things up around here and making birthdays oh so much fun! I also think that love is in the details, and had a great time putting up these banners in the middle of the night. Charlie-cat helped too. I felt a little like Santa Clause - sneaking around in my own house, trying not to make a peep. And, seeing Jonathan's 'Christmas morning grin' was all worth it.

This year is going to be one for the books!

happy halloween

What a wonderfully relaxing Halloween at the house this year. We watched the IRISH pull out a W, gave out candy to some of the cutest costumes, ate Trophy Cupcakes, and had a nice dinner out for Thai food.

It was also pretty funny how many parents of trick-or-treaters saw our Notre Dame carved pumpkin and asked us what the score was.

Can't wait to have a little munchkin next year to dress up!

colorbutton holiday

I've finally started adding new holiday designs to colorbutton!

craving the holidays

The Christmas boxes are open- open, but not quite unpacked. I’m restraining myself until next Saturday, after Halloween, to put up the first glitter reindeer…the first vintage Santa…the first string of garland. Oh, how much magic I have to unveil! The pressure is mounting.

I think it’s because this is the first year I have an actual house to fill with the holiday. This is also the first Christmas that Jonathan and I will be alone, at home, with no family or friends since I can’t travel so close to the due date. So, I really want to make it extra special…extra decorated…and extra festive!

Christmas is just too wonderful to waste on a single month. So, I think it’s going to be stretched to three this year. I know- it’s just a tad ridiculous. But, it sure is pretty!

Here are my latest decorating dilemmas:

1. Large colored bulbs OR white icicle lights to hang outside the house?
2. Fake tree (that we already have) OR purchase a real tree?

I’m dreeeaming of a white Christmasssss!

gorgeous washington fall

orange and pear

A new favorite site for creative gift giving is orange and pear! While the baby gifts have been my favorite, there are so many fun and colorful things to look at. I mean, can you get much cuter than the giraffe hand puppet? Enjoy!

mcdiffett girls descend on seattle

What a whirlwind weekend to come and go. Isn’t it always the case when I get together with sisters! Our second annual McDiffett Sisters Reunion was everything that we knew it would be. The laughing. The eating. The bickering. The stories. The dressing up. The eating out. And, the lounging. We can’t forget about the lounging.

It was such a nice distraction from the normal everyday to have them all here! Dana and Tom flew in from Houston, Megan & Matt from Charlotte (on their way home to Anchorage), Natalie from Anchorage, and Caitlin from Kansas City. Jake also made a surprise visit for one night on his way to Denver!

It was also really nice to have them all here to see my baby belly in action. We took turns feeling my little chickadees kicks, and I made for a good DD the whole weekend. Lucky ducks.

Mom sent her fabulously famous cinnamon rolls for the occasion, and I am now left with one whole box of them. That’s never a safe thing. I also have a fridge full of beer and wine…never something I would have complained about before until I can’t actually drink them.

Another year here - another year gone. Seems like time is moving so quickly these days! It’s interesting to see how everyone is in such a different place than they were one year ago. New distractions. New priorities. Different plans. But, somehow- the same old people. Every time we get together, I’m reminded of how lucky I am to have so very many people to call my family. It’s an extreme comfort, and an extreme joy!

Here are the pics!

falling into fall

It’s Thursday, October 1st- the second official day of fall here in Seattle. That’s according to me. Yesterday I told Jonathan that it was now fall, and he asked me if I got that date off my season calendar. No- that’s just the Hannah barometer analysis.

So, day two of fall- the leaves are crunchy, the one apple growing on the tree in the backyard has turned from green to red overnight, I turned the heat on for the first time in the house, and my once tanned Hawaii skin is now dry and pealing.

The pumpkins are out in snow-plow piles at the grocery store---almost looks like they are flooding out of the doors. I’m thinking- are there really enough people for all of those pumpkins?

The ever-famous pumpkin spice latte is now showing off again at Starbucks, and people are hording the shoe isles in TJ Maxx for a new pair of boots. I found a great new pair myself, but not without a little elbow rubbing. This years’ boot is also a nice half-size bigger than normal due to fabulously swollen pregnant feet.

Jonathan’s task of fixing the gas fireplace has been given a deadline of Saturday morning. He loves being given tasks, by the way. As long as I submit them in bullet points. It’s a consultant thing.

My many many scarves are out and ready. More throw blankets have been added to the couches. My autumn-colored-hair-highlight appointment has been made. Muffins are baking in the oven.

And finally, it is just about time to bring out all of my wintery green wreaths. I’m excited to actually have a real front door now to put one on too!

I can’t stop it any longer. I’m falling into fall.

babymoon in maui

It’s what you would call a kid dropping his ice cream cone on the sidewalk- plain said. That’s what I’ve been feeling all day today…the day after returning from Hawaii. Jonathan and I had the best time we’ve ever had doing nothing. Because a whole lot of nothing adds up to one big something. It’s called relaxation. And we did it proud.

I say we did nothing, but what I mean is that we did nothing that we had to do; nothing that we needed to do; nothing that we didn’t want to do.

Instead of going through the rigmarole of describing how clear the water was, talking about how sweet the fruity air smelled, or how warm the sun felt on my skin, I’m just going to cut to one of my favorite parts.

Jonathan and I were on a scuba dive boat in the middle of the Pacific. With the dive team submerged, it meant it was time for me (the only non-diver) to de-fog my mask, adjust my non-maternity swimsuit around my largely pregnant body and fit my slightly burnt feet into long slippery fins. This was the spot they had been talking about all morning; the spot where the waves were calm and the algae was plenty. I adjusted the mask suctioned to my forehead, took one step off the edge of the boat and one splash into Turtle Valley.

With 120-foot visibility, I thought I could see for miles underwater. I hovered at the top of the group of divers, playing in their rising air bubbles and adjusted my eyes to what looked like large round picnic tables floating around the sea bed. Turtles! Jonathan turned over and waved up to me: his round-bellied, somewhat more buoyant wife floating on the surface. He swam under one of the turtles forcing him to swim upward. George (that’s what I named my turtle) rose quietly to the surface and hovered right next to me. My face stared at his face 4 feet away. Such gorgeous green and white marbled skin he had. Such large, black eyes! He stretched his long rubbery neck out of the water for some air, turned and looked right at me, sucked in his hind legs and turned his large shell for a slow dive back into the deep water. It makes me smile just thinking about our encounter. Me and George. George and me. I’ll never forget our brief love affair.

What a fabulous week we had! I can’t wait to go back again (with a baby) in May for Megan & Matt’s wedding. Well, that….and to see George again. Here are the pics!

22 weeks

Obstacles this week include putting on socks, rolling out of bed, fitting into any Notre Dame t-shirt for game watches, and refraining from eating family-pak sizes of red vines in one sitting.

Our little finch chickadee is kicking and rolling and practicing it's jump-shot. He/she definitely responds to Jonathan speaking into my belly, and loves to wake me up several times in the middle of the night.

Jonathan and I are gearing up for a much-needed, relaxing week in Hawaii come Tuesday. It is all about beaching my whale-of-a-belly, bathing in the sun, snorking, sleeping in, fresh fruit, big breakfasts, romantic dinners, waterfall hikes, volcano tours, and waterfront balconies. I really (really) can't wait!

two gold stars

I may have the best husband in the world. Just maybe.

home improvement #1

One of the very first of many many house projects was re-tiling the living room fireplace. Its limestone green marble made the whole room scream 1993. After a few too many trips to Home Depot and Lowes, we acquired all of the necessary materials and tools to drywall, mortar, tile, and grout the thing. And, as always- it was a much bigger job than anticipated, but not too tough. While Jonathan would have preferred to just call someone to do it for us, I loved the challenge! It was the first of my million and one art projects for the month, and I think it turned out pretty good for our first time tiling. I have to admit though- watching HDTV 24 hours a day most likely helped me out quite a bit.

I would eventually like to add an oversized mantle and box around the tiles. Maybe next year. This one is crossed off my list for now!

19 week somersault

We had our big 19 week ultrasound on Tuesday. It's the one where most people find out whether they're having a boy or girl. We decided to opt out. I don't know where it came from but we are loving the whole surprise idea.

We are now right in the middle of one of the first of many growth spurts, and the little one seems to be very squished! Here is a snapshot of baby finch doing a somersault. So strange to see the legs and feet wrapped up all the way around the head. We will also be going back in for another ultrasound in 2 weeks because he/she apparently wasn't turned the right way for adequate face and cardio measurements. Other that that- all looked and sounded great!

It's kinda funny to me how each ultrasound has made this having-a-baby-odeal seem that much more real. I see it on the screen. I see my large belly. How this is not computing is beyond me. Jonathan is always a little dazed for a few days after each ultrasound...almost like he forgot what was going on.

There are certain moments that I have anticipated in my life that never have failed to live up to the hype. I have thought quite a bit of seeing Jonathan hold our little baby in his arms for the first time, and can't wait to see his tearful, smiling face. He's going to be the best dad in the world!

18 weeks

This whole pregnancy thing just amazes me. I can't believe that I'm halfway through this ordeal already. Nine months seems like such a long time to wait with more than enough days to plan, anticipate, and get used to the whole idea of having a baby before it actually gets here--but I have unknowingly woken up almost every day this week to a belly that is so foreign to me. While I know it has always been growing, (what it's supposed to do…right) it seems to have arrived just yesterday.

I think to myself:

1. What can be in there that is SO big, so fast!?
2. Have I even been paying attention the last 4 months?
3. Is my back going to ache now for the next 4.5 months straight?
4. Is this really what I signed up for?
5. A no-return policy you say?

Maybe the nausea was to blame for my phasing-out all of the reality checks so far. Maybe the stranger-than-strange dreams have me confused about who it is I am actually married to, and how it is that I am going to bring home a baby on or around Jan 12th. It’s really been quite hilarious how interesting each day has been. From the new process (and it IS a process) of rolling over in bed to the extreme craving for a nice big round glass of cabernet, I am officially accepting the fact that things have changed in my life. Things have changed in a fabulous, sometimes gregarious, often strange, occasionally sad, but most of the time very happy way.

Here are some silhouettes of the baby finch belly at 18 weeks.

That’s all for now. Over and out. Literally.

day of firsts

Yesterday was our 1-year wedding anniversary. How quickly the times flies when you're having fun! We spent the day rather romantically-- moving all of our furniture in a U-Haul to the new house, putting things away, spray-painting end tables and headboards, eating a frozen pizza, and watching a movie. A little sweat - a little dirt - a little tylenol. It was perfect.

Aside from our first anniversary, it was also our first night sleeping in the new house, and the first official baby kick! It was more like a pinch...or was it a cramp? Either way, it was the first time (after many previous rumbles and grumbles and flutters over the last week) that I was pretty positive it was the baby. So, I'm counting it.

Today, Jonathan is excited as a little boy on Christmas morning to have his Direct-TV hooked up - just in time for the first pre-season NFL game I might add. Wouldn't want to miss something like that, especially when there are so many boxes to unload and put away. What fabulous distractions!

For me, it's tackling the master closet (eeek), kitchen dishes, and office paperwork. Cross your fingers.

big boobs & belly touchers

Only 4 months into my pregnancy and I am definitely one round lady. I’m sure the fact that my torso is only 6 inches long doesn’t help in that department. I have nowhere to go but OUT. Target had become my go-to shop for maternity clothes…all that is stretchy, twisty, soft, and expandable. It’s great! I finally have a few outfits that I feel good in. It was about time I stopped wearing the same 2 articles of clothing for 3 weeks straight- the only outfit that didn’t have a button or zipper digging into my belly button. Now, even though it’s just a few tops, a few bottoms, and a few dresses- I feel pretty set for the seasons.

Now, I’m on to the “finding a new bra that fits” phase. Because my boobs are huge! Aside from the lovely compliments that Jonathan gives me every once in a while, (what man doesn’t appreciate big boobs?) they’ve actually become quite a nuisance. I feel like I’m wearing a bra 2 cup sizes too small, with nowhere near the necessary support. It’s one of those non-fun purchases…kinda like shopping for closet organizers—they make your life so much easier, but nobody ever sees them.

And then there are the belly-touchers. I don’t know what makes people think they can come up to you and touch your belly just because it’s protruding. Complete strangers! Yes, thank you for noticing that my belly is sticking out and that you think it’s cute. It’s not so cute when it makes you get up to pee five times a night. Just please, don’t touch me—especially if I don’t know you.

These last couple of weeks have actually been pretty good though. The nausea has worn off, skin has cleared up a bit, and I have much more energy. The energy has been quite needed too with us moving into the new house. Brick by brick…I’m building my nest. One room painted…and 10 more ta go!

14 weeks

My first baby bump! While it's still feeling like an over-sized beer belly at this point, I'm starting to really feel pregnant. To the world, anyway. We're not counting the 3-month, all-day, all-night nausea "feeling". That's just damage control. I'm SO looking forward to feeling our little chickadee's first kicks and wiggles in the next couple of weeks!

Last week I came home from the store with some baby clothes. Jonathan held up a gown:

Jonathan: So, umm, is this just for lounging in?
Me: Umm, I would say that it's a sure bet that every article of clothing the baby wears in the first 6 months could be considered 'lounge wear'.

This is going to be fun!

baby finch

I'm pregnant! Althought it seems like I've been pregnant now forever and a day already, we've finally told both sides of our family the good news, and are now excited to be enjoying the second trimester. Baby Finch is due on or around Jan 12th.

He/she will be the first grandchild on both sides of the family, have 11 aunts, and the first chickadee (out of many *hopefully) to arrive in the finch nest.

Here is a sneak peak of our little one at 13 weeks. T minus 6 months!

sarah jane's wedding

Sarah Larrabee is my oldest friend. We have known each other since we were born. I was so happy to be in her wedding on June 28th. She and Gabe make a great match! The wedding was beautiful, and the reception was fabulous fun! Here are the pictures.

north of expected

Alaska Airlines has a new slogan "North of Expected." I think it's brilliant! I love it more every time I see or hear it, and wonder why. I think it has something to do with the fact that my every vacation North to Alaska tends to be, in fact, "North of Expected." And, this trip was no exception. It might quite possibly have been the best trip home in years!

The whole family (that's right-- the WHOLE family) was home for a couple of weeks this time. Since the list seems to grow by at least one every year or so, I'll give you the roster:

Tim (dad)
Mary (mom)
Dana
Tom (brother-in-law)
Hannah
Jonathan (brother-in law)
Megan
Matt (Megan's fiance)
Natalie
Caitlin
Jake (Caitlin's boyfriend)
Bethany
Emma
Regina
Abigail
Leah

The trip's highlights included:
1. Attending Sarah's Larrabee's wedding to Gabe. The Larrabee's have been life-long family friends, and I was a bridesmaid.
2. Stop-off at papa and grandma's cabin in Cooper Landing, AK with mom's famous cinnamon rolls in tote.
3. A family trip 4 hours South to Homer, AK, where we rented a house for 2 days, toured the Homer "spit", played family flip cup, and laughed way too much.
4. Had a family get-together at uncle Paul's house in Wasilla, AK.
5. A fabulous night out at F Street Station bar in downtown Anchorage with the cousins.
6. Watching fireworks on the 4th.

Here are all of the pictures.

we bought a house!

Jonathan and I are so excited to be new home owners! This week is filled with the inspection and appraisal, and we close on July 28th.

Oh, the projects that will follow for me! That is truly the exciting part! Here are the pics.

buying a house

It’s not a perfect art. Or, so I’ve learned. Jonathan and I have embarked on the never-ending, stress-building, time-taking, exciting and exhaustive process of buying our first house. And what with it being an incredible buyers market right now, and Obama’s new home owners tax credit, we would like to make the purchase sooner rather than later.

I know I’m a picky person. I’ve always known this. So, when it came time to spending our entire Saturday driving around looking at houses with our realtor, I tried to prepare myself to be less than impressed. I think it’s just the delusional dream house concept that gets us all into trouble. It’s the one that makes you think that your first house is going to be the castle to your fairytale marriage. Not quite. We looked at some unbelievable houses, and some of which I would be completely happy with. However, it is all of the trade-offs that have come to stress me out:

...the bigger house is more expensive
...but it has X, Y and Z more
...and the smaller house really has everything we need
...but with no yard
...yet, it does have a fabulous walk-in kitchen pantry
...for which the bigger one has none
...and the bathrooms would have to be re-done in this
...yet it’s less expensive to re-do that
...but I like the location of this better
...if it only offered the better school district

And the list goes on and on and on. We narrowed the 10 houses we looked at down to 2 yesterday. Then when I called to see if our realtor could show us both of them one more time, she informed us that one of them already sold. (Sad face)

Everything happens for a reason. Maybe we weren’t supposed to live there.

The fun part for me is walking through each room and imagining where I would position furniture, what paint palettes to apply where, and prioritizing which reno projects to do first. Ummm- new chandelier here…refinish cabinets there…add crown molding everywhere…

Last night Jonathan and I both had a hard time falling asleep. About an hour after lights out, and not a word said:

Jonathan: I can’t sleep. I keep thinking about the house.
Me: Me too! I thought you were asleep. I keep thinking of how to decorate and paint each room.
Jonathan: Well, I’m thinking about how to pay for it.

We both couldn’t help but laugh. What stereotypical man and woman responses. We do make a great team!

To be continued...

the countdown

It was bound to happen. I always get a happy pit in my stomach about 2 weeks before I fly home to Anchorage. I miss seeing my whole family and being amongst the day-to-day ridiculousness that goes on there.

I’m especially happy that I will get to stay an extra long 16 days this time. Some of the time will be spent with wedding festivities, as I’m a bridesmaid in one of my best childhood friends’ wedding. Not to mention- my best friend Starr will be home for the exact same days. Jonathan will be joining me for the second week, and Dana and Tom will also be flying up from Houston. The whole gang will be home and ready to rumble! All 13 of us are planning a mini-vacation down to Homer as well where we’ll get our fill of hiking, sightseeing, fishing and camping.

Ten days and counting! See you all soon!

my domesticated mate

Jonathan is a strange animal. Fabulous, but strange.

Saturdays are his days for sleeping in, drinking coffee, surfing the internet, lounging about, and then- productivity mania! It’s usually around 12:30 that he plugs his ipod headphones into his ears and gets down to business. He cleans the dishes, scrubs the kitchen, does a few loads of laundry, takes out the trash, puts away the collection of shoes at the front door, changes Charlie’s litter box, pays bills, makes his half of the grocery list, and makes us both lunch. And if you aren’t impressed yet, here is the icing on the cake: This past Saturday, I walked into the guest room to find him ironing all of our linen napkins! (I won’t mention the dancing in place while doing so, either.)

I’m telling you- I have no idea where I found this one! He’s the rare unicorn only seen deep in the forest somewhere in the land of elves. I started laughing so hard and gave him a big hug. He said, “Why don’t you just remember this when you give me a hard time for not turning off the lights.”

Deal.

backpacking

I don't think we could have had a better Memorial weekend this year! Jonathan and I went on a 3-day backpacking trip in the Olympic National Park. The weather was absolutely gorgeous and the park was pretty spectaular. To me, it had more or a rain forest type wood with Alaskan mountain and lake views. I felt right at home.

We hiked in about 4 miles the first day, and then 4 more the second. So- when it was time to come home, we had a nice 8 mile trek back to the car on Monday morning. The middle of the park was my favorite part- filled with lots of fun obstacles to conquer like rope climbing up steep slopes, and wading through streams with a heavy pack on. We also saw quite a few creatures along the way like an elk, frogs, tons of banana slugs, and interesting insects I'd never seen before. Really, a great science lesson! I did get about half of my New Moon book read (Starr- you'll be proud), a great tan, a couple of river baths, and a lot of smokey clothes.

We are both incrediably sore and tired from it all. It's been difficult getting around today...so strange what different muscles you use for different workouts. My favorite part about getting home was ordering pizza, taking a long hot bath, and watching a Harry Potter movie. How refreshing it is to spend some quality time in the great outdoors. But, if you didn't already appreciate it, I'm here to tell you- civilization is really quite wonderful too! Here are the pics.

colorbutton abc's

I've been having great fun designing this ABC 8x10 print for colorbutton! I was asked by a customer if I had anything with all of my icons included...which got me thinking. And, when you actually think of it- it's pretty tough trying to come up with images for every letter in the alphabet. At least ones that can easily be depicted, and ones that children would actually learn.

My problem letters were N and Y. I think NEWSPAPER ended up being much more kid-friend than the original NEEDLE, and YAK was my only option. Do let me know if you have any brilliant alternatives!

@ the ballpark

Jonathan and I went to the Mariners vs. Angels baseball game last night at Safeco. What a fun time! I always forget how much fun it is to attend a major sporting event on a weekday night. It was a great distraction from the usual stay-at-home-and-watch-a-movie routine we've become so accustomed to.

The sun was shining, the crowd was lively, and the Mariners pulled out a W. I'm sure we'll be back soon!

the facebook list

A while back, I caved in and filled out the silly list "about me" on facebook. And since I actually took the time to fill it out- I wanted to make sure I saved it somewhere. Here. On the blog. The official keeper of all things written. Well, by me that is. (Take one of Hannah and her weirdness. And, Action!)

1. I can’t stand white walls. I absolutely love color!

2. I miss my family in Alaska so much.

3. I hate the process of putting on make-up. I secretly wish women had a cabinet filled with faces. The going out face. The everyday default face. The going to work face. We could just pick one out, put it on, and be done with it.

4. I didn’t grow up with animals and never ever ever thought I’d be so attached to one. I love our cat Charlie so much. He brings such character to our home.

5. As I get older, I cry so much easier. I hate it.

6. I have always been so glad to have a fairly unique name. And, it kinda bothers me when I hear someone else being called Hannah.

7. I am most happy when I’m creating something. Paint. Clay. Paper. Markers. Fabric. Glitter. Glue. Graphic design. You name it. My home is my canvas and my gallery.

8. Every time I get into my car, I touch my Catholic scapulars (felt squares on a string) hung around my rear view mirror and say, “Blessed Mother, ride with us and keep us safe.” My grandma taught me that when I was seven.

9. My biggest dream has always been to be a country music singer.

10. I have absolutely no idea how I met and fell in love with my husband Jonathan. Seriously- no idea. He is the best part of my life. And, I feel like the luckiest girl alive to wake up every morning and still get to keep him.

11. Towels are folded in a certain way in my house. If you’re not going to fold em right, don’t even bother.

12. I consciously pick out cute outfits for my unborn children.

13. I’m weird about not wanting anyone to know the names I’d like for our kids someday. Jonathan is sworn to secrecy. Seriously. I also won’t find out if we’re having girls or boys. I think there are so few true surprises in life.

14. I think that my husband is the smartest person I know. He’s pretty scary smart about most anything. It does me well to be around him. I’m always so proud to have a local resource (in my home, local) to bounce ideas off of. He’s the CEO of our home and I’m the Creative Director. I think we’re a great team.

15. Coming from a family of nine sisters is one of the biggest blessings in my life. (if not THE biggest.) It is ridiculously wonderful.

16. I have the weirdest, most memorable dreams almost every single night. Jonathan is forced to listen to them in the mornings. If I don’t tell someone else about them- they stick with me all day long.

17. I’ve always thought I had a big forehead. That’s why I had bangs all throughout school. Now, of course, I’m too lazy to keep bangs. If you didn’t know- they require quite a bit of maintenance.

18. My master plan is to get my whole family to move to the Seattle area. Eventually, that is. I’m constantly plotting and scheming their way here.

19. I pride myself on never ever, not even once, having a cavity.

20. My “what if” man is Patrick Dempsey. It’s ok- you can have him too.

21. I really don’t want to become a housewife. But- I want to stay at home when my kids are little. Tricky, tricky.

22. I’m a little addicted to Sprite zero now. And, um, Goldfish crackers.

23. I love to poke, prod, and investigate skin-related issues. Scabs, zits, hair, needles, stitches, burns. I absolutely loved dissecting things in anatomy and physiology including pigs, cats, and even real human cadavers. Love it! Makes me excited just thinking about it! I think I should have been a surgeon.

24. I’m back up to running 3 miles a day. We’ll see how long that lasts. I felt in such great shape when I ran a half marathon last year. Hey- it’s always an uphill climb.

25. My new favorite meal to cook is meatloaf, mashed potatoes ‘n gravy, and grilled asparagus. Mmmm.

star trek

Jonathan and I watched the new Star Trek movie at a 3D IMAX theatre last night. And, I have to say, it was pretty fabulous!

Even for someone that only watched a little bit of Trek growing up-- it was definitely worth the watch! Unbelievable special effects, great story line, and a fun get-away from reality. If only for a few hours. Watch the official trailer in HD.

chinchilla

I overheard my sister Natalie and her friend Stephanie talking about chinchillas:

Hannah: What is a chinchilla again? Is it a dog or a burrito?
Stephanie: Um, neither. That would be a chihuahua and a chimichanga.

(Followed by uncontrollable laughter)

Note: Chinchillas are crepuscular rodents, slightly larger than ground squirrels, native to the Andes mountains in South America. Along with their relatives, viscachas, they belong to the family Chinchillidae.

the bangs are back

I'm giving them one more try. I thought, ya know- it's been about nine years since the high school bang theory. Maybe I should give em another shot. After all- they DO cover up my big forehead nicely.

It's only been about a day, and they're already driving me crazy... falling in my face, just a wee bit too short to tuck behind my ear, and getting stuck on my eyelash when I blink.

I can only imagine how concerned you all are. But, if I had to guess, it would most likely be you guys (the 4 people that even read my blog) that would understand the most. Happy bang cutting!

you: the coffee cup

Almost every person I know has a Starbucks profile. It’s the description of the type of drink you usually order. And, it’s the list of specific accommodations you would like made to your beloved cup of coffee such as skinny, decaf, tripple-shot, no foam or sugar-free that really put you in a league of your own.

Sugar-free: You’re either watching your weight or you’ve miraculously become accustomed to the “diet” aftertaste of the sugar-free syrup.

No foam: You can’t be bothered to wait until your coffee sip makes its way through the thick foam to your mouth. That, or you don’t want to be cheated out of the full cup of coffee you purchased.

Tripple-shot: You’re going to be a little on edge and/or grumpy until you get your coffee fix…and you know it.

Skinny: You either really can’t stand the extra percentage of milk in your system, or you simply want to cut a few calories because you drink this drink at least twice a day.

Drip or Americano: You’re an older dad and/or you don’t appreciate fruiffy things. That includes fruiffy ingredients in a wholesome cup of freshly brewed black beans. The exceptions to this one are those of you that really need to wake up, or are nursing a hangover.

Chai or Green Tea: You have either never liked the taste of coffee, or rub elbows with the organic people of the world.

Here’s the rundown sportsfans…

Dad: Grande americano with cream + sugar
Tom: Tea
Dana: Venti skinny toffee-nut latte
Jonathan: Grande drip with cream
Hannah: Tall hazelnut latte
Megan: Grande iced americano
Natalie: Grande white mocha
Caitlin: Grande skinny hazelnut latte
Bethany: Grande skinny hazelnut latte

Don’t you just love putting people in their correct boxes? Maybe not. Maybe I’m the only one obsessed with labeling people...figuring out what makes them tick...predicting their behavior. Really, for me, it’s all about analyzing the unusual collection of people belonging to our family. Their likes. Their trends. Their reactions.

We’re a strange animal. But, the same animal. At least when it comes to coffee.

playing the mrs.

I’ve only been married for about 9 months now, and Jonathan has become the best roommate I’ve ever had! It’s actually even a little weird for me to think of how smooth everything usually is. He helps with the dishes and the laundry. He cooks dinner and takes out the trash. He even watched the entire season of the bachelor with me! Yes, I know- that’s saying a lot. And, no- he would never admit to it.

Lately, I’ve started thinking about what it has taken to get to this point. Have I made any real changes in my life to accommodate for “our life”? Are there things that I have given up for the greater good of the family? And the answer is yes. Little things. Litte, bitty things that have somehow seamlessly slithered their way in somehow. Tongue twist that!

Exhibit A:

My blog title is now hannah and jonathan. He doesn’t really ever contribute to the actual posting, but it somehow makes him feel like he’s part of ‘my’ blogging experience when his name is included. Especially when I chat with his side of the family on blogger.

Exhibit B:

We have framed and signed photographs of LaDainian Tomlinson on our kitchen wall. When did football ever belong next to the spatulas you ask? When Hannah and Jonathan got married. That’s when.

Exhibit C:

I finally bought a huge accordion box organizer today to house all of our most important papers…things like birth certificates, tax returns, and car titles. And, only after the 2 hours it took me to organize the whole thing into neat little folders (complete with clear cello-wrapped pockets of papers and sharpie marker labels) did I realize that I had inadvertently taken control of (and responsibility for) BOTH of our lives on paper. Meanwhile, Jonathan was glued to ESPN. I think it’s so interesting to see how responsibilities are divied up during the first year of marriage. Hey- as long as Jonathan does our taxes, I will continue to file them neatly in place. I think we make a good team.

Exhibit D:

Jonathan and I watch a lot of movies. Really. At least 3 or 4 a week. It’s one thing that we both love doing. However, my unlimited power of choosing the movie has been somewhat compromised since the early dating days of “Oh, sweetie- we’ll watch whatever you want to watch.”
No sir E. It’s a battle of wits now. We take so long to agree on a movie to watch that someone inevitably (more tired than the other) says, “Fine- I don’t care. Put that one in.” The only problem is that we are both fierce competitors. Choosing a movie can be quite the daily episode.

All things considered, I think we’ve pretty seamlessly merged our two lives…our friends, our choices, and our decisions. If only we had a man room for the kitchen football photos...

the conference call

I’ve been thinking more and more about conference calls lately. Maybe the fact that I work at home for a small company that is completely virtual is to blame. My findings are as follows:

1. As much as we are used to the ever-expanding world of technology, I am still secretly amazed that I can be talking on my one phone to 15 different people at once: Each person located in a different city, in their own houses or cars or kitchens, and joining the call with many different moods/expectations/needs.

2. There has to be a leader. Otherwise, the conversation turns more into the sound of 4 radio stations playing simultaneously. Not good.

3. I think that all participants should stay on mute until it is their turn to speak. Background noise is extremely annoying.

4. If the information you’re talking about doesn’t apply to everyone (or most people) on the call, finish your individual conversations off-line. The fact that your fax machine is broken and you’ll be having a repair man come to fix it next week (hmmmm 10 minutes later) does not concern me.

5. Keep your phone a reasonable distance from your mouth when speaking. You don’t want to be known as “the booming voice.”

6. If you only scheduled the call to last 30 minutes, don’t be angry when people have to hang up at 60 minutes.

7. For calls lasting more than 2 hours, do you think it appropriate for me to interject my own commercials? “This call was brought to you by your favorite stationery provider. For more information, visit colorbutton.etsy.com.” I don’t see why not…

cats

No. Not another fuzzy domesticated creature. The Broadway performance! Jonathan got us tickets for my birthday. What a cool show. The costumes were my favorite part. While it probably wasn't my all-time favorite broadway show (psst: Jersey Boys & Wicked) it was an excellent display of imagination, feline impersonation, and musical talent! I have to hand it to Jonathan. He's a historically great gift giver!

camping on whidbey island

Jonathan and I had a fabulous time camping on Whidbey Island! Whidbey is part of the San Juan Islands Northwest of Seattle, and the only island that you can drive to. We had a much-needed mini vacation away from the apartment and laundry and computers and tv.

Jonathan is a true outdoorsman. Even though this was only car camping- he didn't hesitate to bring all of his cool camping/backpacking equipment. Pretty funny, actually.

We're more than ready to take another 3-day trip into the back-country of Yosemite next month! We both absolutely love being out in the middle of nowhere...

- miles away from people
- living off of astronaut food
- reading a few great novels
- skinny dipping in lakes
- drinking coffee out of titanium mugs at sunrise
- weaving wildflower crowns
- squatting in the bushes
- painting mud war stripes on our faces
- writing in my journal
- talking late into the night under the stars
- worrying about the noises in the brush
- day dreaming
- taking pictures

Gotta love the great outdoors! And yes, ladies- the smores were indeed to die for. Here are more pics from the trip.

to do list

1. Fold clean laundry (sitting in a basket for 3 days now and very wrinkly).
2. Fluff the clean, wrinkled clothes in the dryer before folding.
3. Organize the birthday calendar once again.
4. Put the birthday calendar somewhere where I’ll HAVE to see it every day.
5. Buy makeup foundation to match my winter skin: Powder White or Porcelain White?
6. Make Jonathan clip his toenails. They’re deadly sharp in bed. Especially at 4am.
7. Eliminate the under-arm flab before having to appear in a June wedding.

nursery collection

Lately, I have been working on a colorful nursery print collection. And, since I have so many childrens movies that I love, and want to represent, it has been a challenge to pick out only my absolute favorites. I must say, I'm having so much fun with these. I've even been watching the movies as I design. Sleeping Beauty is playing as I type. Here are the first six pieces. Now I just need some babies - to have a nursery - to decorate!

(click on image to enlarge)

bainbridge island

Jonathan and I had a beautiful get-away on Saturday. We took the 30-minute ferry ride from downtown Seattle over to Bainbridge Island. And I don't think we could have had a nicer day. This weekend might quite possibly have been the best weekend of weather we have had in Seattle so far! Sunny. Warm. A lite breeze. Clear, blue sky. Georgous!

Seeing as though it rains quite a bit here, the day of sunshine was enough to make me smile. Throw in a quaint town filled with shops to explore, and I'm one happy girl! Bainbridge is one of the most charming places I've ever been to. The trees are green, the streets are super-clean, and the buildings are colorful. Since it's an island, most houses are considered water-front lots. I couldn't help but think I was driving through Wisteria Lane - waterside! Or, for those of you who aren't familiar with Desperate Housewives- maybe a Mr. Rodgers neighborhood by the sea. Old craftsman houses. Gorgeous pink and white and yellow flowering trees. Sailboats in the harbor. Everyone and their brother walking a dog, sipping coffee. Homeowners working in their yards and gardens. At times, it almost felt like we could have been in a small town in Maine somewhere. I could very easily move across the water, buy a cottage, plant a garden, and live happily ever after. We considered it too.

We were also impressed at how well-organized and effective the ferry system runs. It leaves port from Seattle to Bainbridge and back once and hour all day long, until midnight. Many people commute into the city with no problem. We drove our car on, parked in line, and went up top for some nice views. The ferry has a cafe on board, comfortable seating, and plenty of space. And, by the time it takes you to drink a cup of coffee, you're there. The attendants have an incrediably smooth system for directing cars off, and then directing the new cars going the other way back on. It was a little weird to float across water, get off, and still have our own car to drive around.

One more place crossed off our list, and on to the next!
Here are more pics.

living creatively

Living Creatively is another fun site to browse. It's full of art & design, craft projects, decorating trends, and articles. The latest article was written on current craft trends.

Take a look! How trendy are you?

1) Buttons
2) Birds
3) Aprons
4) Babushka Dolls
5) Pin Cushions
6) Resin Designs
7) Screen Printing
8) Typography
9) Monochrome
10) Blogging

design sponge

Ever want to peek into other peoples' homes? Love getting creatively inspired? I found an awesome site for all of this and more!

DesignSponge gives you sneek peeks inside people's creatively decorated spaces at home, info on the latest design trends, guides on traveling, interesting pod-casts, do-it-yourself instructions for craft project, before and after project pics, recipes, and videos. Just about anything you can think of! The title 'sponge' is perfectly labeled so.

A word of caution: This site will suck you in! I've logged some serious hours here. Oh so much fun for the creative seeker. Enjoy!

3 sprouts

Gotta love cool baby stuff! 3 Sprouts is a cutesy-cute Canadian shop just starting to expand their business. Their website is under construction, but their stuff is sold on various online shops. A simple google search will give you a list of places to purchase.

Featured here are some of their 100% organic hooded towels for $35 each. I think my favorite one is the white chicken!

burton fam visits seattle

I miss the little man already! Starr, Mac and baby Connor came to visit over the weekend. We had such a great time hanging out, making dinners, and roaming around Seattle. It's times like these when I truly realize that I live way too far away from my best friend! Thanks for visiting!! Check out the pics.

amy wenzel

I'm on the hunt to seek out a cool photographer here in Seattle that has a similar artistic style to Amy Wenzel. My friend Corie introduced me to her about a year ago. I absolutely love her photographic style- the use of bright, bold colors, her tendency to shoot gritty textures, and candid scenes. She specializes in children/family shoots as well as senior girls. Her site is very modern with just a little bit of funky. Love it! The thing is- she's based out of Michigan. So, for now- I'm on the hunt for someone similar in the Seattle area. Happy viewing!

way studios

One of my new-found favorite artists is James McLaughlin Way. I love his mystic circus paintings. They are dramatic and playful and a little scary all at once. I think they would be great pieces for a dimly lit formal dining room or a library/study.

Hmm...I've got to have a study. And, maybe even have Jonathan smoke a few cigars in there. You know, just to get that historic old-mans club smell. Throw in a few globes, thick leather books, and some brandy glasses in a corner. I'll be set!

vintage wallpaper animals

One of my favorite hobbies is surfing the internet for unique and creative ideas. Today's inspiration comes from a super-cool shop in Amsterdam specializing in vintage wallpaper animals. Inke is the first name of the woman who started the business. I need to have kids- if for no other reason than to get to design all of their rooms.

order up a laugh

I think Caitlin tells it the best. This was one of the storytelling hits told while in Council Grove for the weekend:

Lucky Wishbone is one of the oldest mom and pop restaurants in Anchorage specializing in homecooked, pan-fried chicken. Certain menu titles are given to each of the different sized chicken baskets available. Three pieces of chicken is called the "Pop", two pieces is called the "Mom", and 1 piece is called the "Junior."

When Dana and Tom were last in Anchorage, they took some of the family to Lucky Wishbone. Tom took one look at the menu and was ready to order. When the waitress came to him and asked what he would like, he paused, looked at the menu again, looked up at her and said, "Umm, I'll have your mom."

You can only imagine the roar of laughter that follows this story - so much so that our cousin-in-law Josh now wants to visit Alaska, if for no other reason than to be able to make his own order of chicken.

Tom says, "Truth is, I really wanted three pieces of chicken. But I was willing to sacrifice my lunch for a joke of a lifetime."

Throughout the weekend, the group came up with a few filler responses that could also have been plausible:

1) "I'll have your mom....and ummm- I'm also pretty hungry."
2) "What side dishes come with your mom?"

I'm sure it was the first time the waitress had ever heard that before. She just smirked and walked away.

86 candles in the sunflower state

I just flew back into town from a nice long weekend in Council Grove, Kansas for grandma McDiffett’s 86th birthday weekend celebrations. What a fun trip! This had to have been one of the best times we’ve had with our cousins in a long time. Two new babies in the mix, lots of homemade pie, way too much laughing, and some great storytelling made for a weekend worth remembering.

Grandma was introduced to the Wii game of bowling. And, she was dominating the game. What a priceless expression on her face to be beating her two grandsons on her first time playing. She was tickled to death. It is always so special to watch her look around at her big extended family, get choked up, and start crying. We know how much she appreciates us all being there. She wears her emotions of her sleeve, which is so refreshing. I’m always so amazed at how with-it she is at 86 years old. She works out regularly at the gym as a member of the Silver Sneaker group, is involved in many community clubs, prides herself on never having missed the opportunity to send a card for a birthday, and is pretty famous in a town of 2,000 for making pies.

This trip, I was so excited to be given a beautiful watercolor print that she painted over 70 years ago as a sophomore at Junction City high school in 1938. The piece is a likeness of Merna Loy- a movie star at the time.

Overall, it was a great trip! Click here for pictures.

lovey dovey day

Valentine's Day was fabulous! And, for those of you that knew me when I hated the holiday- that's saying quite a lot. We got all dressed up and went to an Italian restaurant I had been dying to go to called Barolo. Dinner was great. The wine was spectacular. The dessert was sweet. This restaurant had the most romantic ambience. Take a look.

We then came home to a fire in the fireplace, chocolate, and cookies to the tune of some fabulous Disney love songs. Thanks mom!

Hope you all had a very lovey dovey day. For more pics- click here.

color your button

Today is the first day in a while that I feel like I'm back in the land of the living! I go through weeks where I slip into project comatoses. It's definitely my drug of choice. Whether it's putting new pictures in old picture frames, re-painting a wall for the 3rd time, or re-organizing all of the dishes in my kitchen cabinets- it's a period of NEW. My latest has been spent immersed in new colorbutton designs. I've always loved the jcrew look of small icons like whales and fish. And, for some reason, I seem to be completely in love with birds. Bird everything! I have even thought of starting a collection of birds. No- not real ones. It's weird, I know. Poor Jonathan is such a good sport throughout my creative nut projects.

And with that- I'm on to the next ones. 1)Looking for slipcovers for the livingroom furniture. 2)Creating a huge, beautiful fake flower arrangement. 3)Throwing away any and all clothing that I haven't worn in 3 years, and 4)Collecting twigs outside for nice fireplace burning.

Projects. They're really quite exciting!

trip to vancouver, canada

Jonathan and I had a great weekend trip to Vancouver, Canada! Highlights included:

1) Visiting the Granville Island public market (quaint/artistic warehouses on the water)
2) Shopping on Robson Street (their Michigan Ave equivalent)
3) A fabulous dinner in Yaletown (hip restaurants bunched around 2 blocks)
4) Brunch in the gay district (they know how to make great pancakes)
5) A tour of Stanley Park (absolutely stunning views)
6) Crossing the Capilano suspension bridge (largest in the world) and
7) Lunch in Gastown (historic, cobblestone Vancouver)

We loved the city so much that we both talked about moving there. Most likely won't happen, but with it being only a short 2.5 hr drive from Seattle, we plan to visit quite a bit! Here are the pics.

the job search continues...

click on the picture to enlarge.

christmas with palm trees

For the full picture album, visit our phanfare site.