Tuesday, August 31, 2010

inspire me.

today my run around town with the very wonderful, super cute and pregnant Hanna inspired me to do great things. Great, amazing, profitable artsy stuff. it was nice to spend the day not in an appointment, cleaning, or folding laundry-although I REALLY needed to do that.

At Domestica I purchased and really-it isn't that far. *this is a note for my california family-get on a plane and come see me!

I didn't find any thing at Vitae. I have a gift certificate for Pink Revolver, but couldn't find a single thing which is SO strange to me.

I also peeked through Ephemera's window and saw the most divine chalk board that will soon be on my wall in the kitchen. It said: TODAY I WILL DO 2 AMAZING THINGS. How spectacular is that?!

So on top of all that wonderfulness I come to discover that Hanna is a knitting extrodenaire! This is amazing news and I can't wait to learn from her as well.

Nothing like an afternoon of Fong's, wonderful stores, great company, and amazing conversation!

screen printing.

I am having a dilemma on whether or not to purchase a Yudu or do traditional screen printing. I would really like to do some amazing homemade Christmas gifts-well gifts in general. I need to do more creative outlets in my life. I've used the Yudu multiple times and can't really see any thing wrong with it aside from the price. Traditional printing is more time consuming, but super cost affective. I don't have a lot of time, but would really like it to be friendly to my pocket book. What's a girl to do?

tow-maters.

yummy yummy tomatoes straight from the garden. FINALLY!!


Monday, August 30, 2010

get it together....

Ok, so there are a million projects I want to get done. The biggest problem is that I haven't even started them. These are some of the things I want and NEED to get done.

1. fix holes in my jeans
2. make jewelry
3. knit more
4. decide on a screen printing method
5. get in the garden
6. get ready for canning
7. buy a second camera
8. update music on ipod
9. have a garage sale
10. make a festival shirt
11. fall in love-but not out
12. learn to play the guitar
13. dishes
14. start taking my supplements
15. make a grocery list....
16. go to the grocery store
17. clean the garage
18. replace the lock on the front door
19. get a new battery for my car
20. do my state taxes-oops!!!!
21. call iowa workforce-UGH!!
22. start making x-mas gifts
23. edit photos
24. read a book
25. book my vacation to cali



oh my oh my! and this isn't even half of the to do list.

Patty Griffin and Natalie Maines - Mary

this song makes my heart melt. it makes me think so much of my grandmother and the likeness of her that i share, which is incredibly humbling.

Tuesday, August 24, 2010

hiking.

I so very much enjoyed my hike today. I've never actually went hiking and it was a real joy. I saw a lot of wonderful things, took some photos, and sweated out the weeks stress. And besides the blisters I'm feeling good! I can't wait to post photos. Now I just need to find a good pair of hiking shoes so I can get my butt out there!

Sunday, August 22, 2010

lavender.

I discovered that lavender oil is a great remedy for mosquito bites. After this morning in the garden and around 20 bites over my arms and face I needed a quick fix. Benadryl, aloe sprays, and calamine lotion don't work for me.

So I'm going to NEW CITY MARKET to get some to treat these pesky bites!

come home.

I was once told that wherever we are, as long as we're together it's home. I'm still looking for that home.

Saturday, August 21, 2010

music.

these are a few past photos of concerts i've been to. unforetunatley I haven't been to a lot of shows this year due to lack of money, so I'm posting these to remember the great times I've had...





Day 30 → A letter to yourself, tell yourself EVERYTHING you love about yourself.

Day 30 → A letter to yourself, tell yourself EVERYTHING you love about yourself.

Dear Katy,
I love that you are a hopeless romantic and truly believe that there's a big love out there for every one. I love that you are independent, caring, and a huge worrier. I think it's a great thing that you have learned to stick up for yourself-maybe still not the best at it, but much better for sure-you still need to learn to say no more often.
You are the best sister, daughter, aunt, niece, granddaughter, and friend you can be and take care of your family the best you can. I love that you love your family, even with their faults also. You are a very loyal and loving friend, who knows her friends are the best family extension a girl could ever have and you're very lucky.
You are creative, generous, full of adventure, a little hesitant, and love the earth. Some times you can be moody and grumpy, but for the most part love your life. You're finally learning to take control of your life and enjoy things-even though you work like a crazy person.
You are great and deserve good things-keep your chin up.

Love,

Me.

Friday, August 20, 2010

Day 29 → Something you hope to change about yourself. And why.

Day 29 → Something you hope to change about yourself. And why.

I hope to change my eating habits. I want to be more healthy-organic and natural. I feel like I was need to be closer to the earth. I want to be more self sustaining. I want to learn how to can, have a bigger garden-maybe year round, chickens, cows, pond....I want the simple life. A more healthy, happy me and these things can all happen...

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Day 28 → What if you were pregnant or got someone pregnant, what would you do?

Day 28 → What if you were pregnant or got someone pregnant, what would you do?

If I got pregnant I'd keep the baby. The only circumstances I believe in abortion are rape and incest. Babies are such a wonderful blessing and gift. If I had been raped though I would still go through the pregnancy and give it up for adoption-so many people want a baby. It's hard to say with certainty considering I've never been in that position though. I love babies and would love one of my own....soon. Like 3 years.

Day 27 → What’s the best thing going for you right now?

Day 27 → What’s the best thing going for you right now?

Currently the best thing I have going for me is passion and drive to be some thing bigger and better than what I am. The drive to be loved, love, enjoy life, and I will always continue to have the support and encouragement of my friends and family.

Day 26 → Have you ever thought about giving up on life? If so, when and why?

Day 26 → Have you ever thought about giving up on life? If so, when and why?

When I was in about 5th or 6th grade I really hated life...6th grade was pretty terrible. My parents divorced, moved, moved schools, gained a bunch of weight. Needless to say I didn't think life was worth the hassle, but I made it through and am a better person for it.

Tuesday, August 17, 2010

Sunday, August 15, 2010

Day 25 → The reason you believe you’re still alive today.

Day 25 → The reason you believe you’re still alive today.

I believe I'm still alive, because there's a reason I've been through what I've been through. There's some one I'm supposed to meet, some place I'm supposed to go, some thing bigger than me that I am meant to do. There must be a reason behind the struggle and I'm just waiting out the choppy waves to see the shore up ahead.

Day 24 → Make a playlist to someone, and explain why you chose all the songs. (Just post the titles and artists and letter)

Day 24 → Make a playlist to someone, and explain why you chose all the songs. (Just post the titles and artists and letter)

This playlist is for my Grandma Judy, who passed away 6 years ago yesterday-August 14th.

Waiting for You by Ben Harper. Even after 6 years I still hear your voice or see things you would enjoy and reach for the phone to call you.

Let It Be by The Beatles. You're always in my heart and thoughts. When I question some thing I think first of what you would do or say. You also had the attitude that things happened for a reason.

Lullaby by The Dixie Chicks. I never fully understood what it was like to be loved until you took me in. I never knew I could miss some one so completely.

Fortunate Fool by Jack Johnson. You loved every one around you and made me realize how much family and friends mean. You were so strong, loving and dedicated. I think this is why I'm such a hopeful person for life and love.

What's Simple is True by Jewel. Life simply, love simply. Love is not complicated, nor bendable.

Duet by Rachael Yamagata. We were quite he team and even though the road between us is far and such a long journey, we are never far apart.

Winter by Tori Amos. I attempt to fill your void. To be that rock our family has been missing since you passed.

Saturday, August 14, 2010

camp.

According to Shine.com these are 7 of the top campsites!!!! I really hope to go camping so very soon.


California’s Joshua Tree National park www.nps.gov/jotr
Eight hundred thousand acres filled with endemic trees and ancient, wild rock formations. The best part? No need to be an expert climber. Jumbo rock is a blast to explore. There is also horseback riding, birdwatching, and mountain biking.

Florida’s John Pennekamp Coral Reef Park www.floridastateparks.org/pennekamp
Located in the Florida Keys, this original undersea park features 178 nautical miles of coral reefs, seagrass beds and mangrove swamps. A perfect place to scuba, snorkel or take a glass bottom boat tour.

Idaho’s Warm River Campground www.recreation.gov/warmeriver
Surrounded by willow and pine trees, a fishing enthusiast’s heaven. While Dad is busy catching brook and rainbow trout, the kids can go sailing or tubing. There’s a river regatta in July. Natural springs and waterfalls dot the scenery and in winter the frozen falls are spectacular.

Montana’s Glacier National Park www.nps.gov/glac
This park is named for its glacier-carved terrain and remnant glaciers from the ice ages 10,000 years ago. Bike, boat or horseback ride along spectacular vistas. There are also a wide range of weather conditions at the park thanks to the mountains, lakes and the Canadian cold fronts.

California’s Channel Islands National Park in Santa Cruz Island www.nps.gov/chis
The Channel Islands National Park at Santa Cruz Island in California boasts one of the largest and deepest sea caves in the world. Called the Painted Cave, and named after its colorful rocks and algae, it is nearly a quarter-mile long and 100 feet wide. You’ll also get to see the island scrub jay and eight plant species found only on Santa Cruz.

Maryland’s Assateague Island National Seashore www.nps.gov/asis
The Assateague Island National Seashore has over 48,000 acres in Maryland and Virginia. It’s a great place to camp and kayak, swim and surf , but it is best known for its wild horses. There are over 300 wild ponies roaming free. Don’t forget your waterproof cameras.

Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park www.nps.gov/romo
There are over 350 miles of hiking trails and there is something for all ages and skill levels. From gentle lakeside walks to high mountain summit ascents—and even vertical rock climbs, this park will give you a workout. There’s also plenty of wildlife to see, including elk and the Rockies' big horn sheep.

Friday, August 13, 2010

the garden goods.






eat. pray. love.

I think I'm going to read it. I'm in a place in my life for change-and what better or a time than when I turn 25? September 26th is right around the corner and it's time to be the big kid. I want to do so much in the next five years-go back to Europe, buy a house, and travel once a year. I want to eat more exotic foods, read more books, take more photos, dance, sing, write, change my diet...I want to do it all! And I can-I'm not quite 25 and life is just beginning!!

aprons.

so my mom is a crazy amazing seamstress. here's one of the aprons-ON THE LEFT-that she made. The ladies from Heartbreak Recovery Kitchen modeled one for their photo shoot. Soon I'll have to stuff up on etsy for sale!!

Day 23 → Something you wish you had done in your life.

Day 23 → Something you wish you had done in your life.

I wish I had learned more from my grandmothers while they were still alive. I feel like I missed out on some great life lessons and skills that I would have otherwise gotten first hand. Like awesome homemade pie crust, canning, homemade chicken and noodles, stories about my Grandpa Dick-there's so much I could have learned and been able to pass on. It's even harder to learn these things because my mom lives in Vegas and my Aunt in California, so it's not that I can just pop over and take notes. Ugh...also I wish my mom would teach me more about sewing. She's been a seamstress for 35 years and I don't feel like I know as much as I should! Thanks god for google and you tube videos.

Thursday, August 12, 2010

Day 22 → Something you wish you hadn’t done in your life.

Day 22 → Something you wish you hadn’t done in your life.

I wish that I hadn't only gone to a 2 year university. Although I LOVED going to DMACC-the wonderful professors and education-I wish I would have spent the extra 2 years for a fancy piece of paper that says I have a 4 year degree. Also I like to be challenged and I feel like if I would have been challenged for 2 more years like I was at DMACC I would be a much more creative driven person. However, I am so grateful for the education and support I have through it! I met some pretty amazing people who ALWAYS have my back and inspire me.


Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Day 21 → (scenario) Your best friend is in a car accident and you two got into a fight an hour before. What do you do?

Day 21 → (scenario) Your best friend is in a car accident and you two got into a fight an hour before. What do you do?

Go straight to the hospital and sit by her side until the she recovers....DUH!!!!!!!

wedding bells.

no i'm not getting married, but i love going through blogs and websites for inspiration. i'm contemplating getting a yudu to possibly do invites on clothe or wood...it seems like a good idea. this website is amazing inspiration!

OH SO BEAUTIFUL PAPER

the notebook.

How wonderful is this? the notebook inspired photos-you MUST check this out.
“The Notebook” Inspired Engagement Photos


GREEN WEDDING SHOES is an amazing website. That's where i got the link from above....SO wonderful.

spectacular.

this is so wonderful. makes me curious what the heck i can do to make a headboard.

inspiration...



enough said!!!

Monday, August 9, 2010


how wonderful is this? i want to some thing similar, but i think it'd be fun to do the alphabet in a kid's room and take photos of some thing starting with that letter to go along with it.

you are invited.


i'm pretty proud of this invitation and super excited for our big gathering. hopefully the rain ceases long enough to celebrate the big 2-5.

in the comfort of your own home.

this is what i would want my back yard to look like...some day ladies and gents, some day.

meet tanner.






Tanner is the son of my best friend of 12 years, Charity. This year he will be 7 years old-yes folks-we're getting old. This was after his t-ball game in Story City. In true Charity and Katy, celebratory fashion we went out for ice cream. I'm honestly curious how Charity and I aren't 500 lbs. after all the ice cream we've had together.
Tanner is also my godson and he's a cancer survivor. He was diagnosed with Neuroblastoma when he was 6 months old. I remember when Charity called and told me. I was driving into Smith Oil's parking lot just minutes before we were expected to be at commencement practice. Needless to say, it really put life and loved ones into prospective. Now he's cancer free and very much an active and healthy boy!

Day 20 → Your views on drugs and alcohol.

Day 20 → Your views on drugs and alcohol.

Again, a touchy subject. I feel like there are so many different kind of drugs that when you get down to it there's so many answers. I don't think marijuana, a natural plant found on mother earth is wrong. But chemically processed and created drugs I feel should be looked at in more of a negative light. It seems to me that pot can help so many people, yet we punish some one harsher for it than for a drug that puts life threatening chemicals into our body and can instantly kill. After watching a lot of documentaries and educating myself the best I can-keep in mind I am not an expert-there are many helpful qualities in weed that could help thousands, if not millions with ailments ranging from glaucoma to cancer. It just seems strange to me that we'd keep a natural medicine out of the hands of people who could benefit from it without harmful side effects like most narcotics have.

Alcohol is to me a legal drug. You can buy it at almost every gas station, grocery store, general store, bar and restaurant. You can become so drunk you pass out, drive home, or possibly hurt yourself or some one else. I sat in a room of friends once and out of 13 of the group only 3 of us had never had a DUI...out of those 10 people 6 of them had more than 2....out of those 6 3 of them had more than 4.

Sunday, August 8, 2010

Day 19 → What do you think of religion? Or what do you think of politics?

Day 19 → What do you think of religion? Or what do you think of politics?

I think religion is to each his own. It's not that I don't believe in God, I'm just more of a spiritual person. I think there has to be a reasonable explanation of how we all came to be, why we are here, and what we are meant to do with the time we are given.

Politics....nah, I don't want to go there. All I know is they are WAY too involved in our lives.

Day 18 → Your views on gay marriage.

Day 18 → Your views on gay marriage.

I believe that if a man loves a man or a woman loves a woman who am I to tell them that isn't right? Quite frankly, I think that there's nothing unnatural about it nor should it be looked down upon. Love is a beautiful act that every one should be able to experience. Far be it to me to tell some one they cannot love or be loved in return. Love is beautiful-just let it be.

Saturday, August 7, 2010

Friday, August 6, 2010

Day 16 → Someone or something you definitely could live without.

Day 16 → Someone or something you definitely could live without.

Sorry apparently I missed Day 16.

I could not live without music or my camera. Between those two things and my garden, they're the next best thing to medicine. Of course my friends are the glue that hold me together and keep me strong, level, and brave. I am fortunate enough to have many things that keep me grounded, loved, and sane.

Day 17 → A book you’ve read that changed your views on something.

Day 17 → A book you’ve read that changed your views on something.

I don't feel like I've read enough books, but I would say that The Scarlet Letter made a big impact on my views of single mothers and loving some one you "shouldn't". Even though it was written many a moons ago it shares a great message about not labeling people with titles that don't necessarily fit who or what they are. Love, although there ARE limitations, is a blessing and should be embraced. Life is a challenge. Don't label or judge people, especially if you don't want them doing the same to you.

Thursday, August 5, 2010

true love.

Charity, Sharon and I are venturing to Bonner Springs, KS in 12 days to see my beloved Jack Johnson. I'm pretty sure it's going to be magical-he may propose to me that night too. he he he. I'm really looking forward to this, I've never seen him in concert and I am thoroughly enjoying his new CD. I've been following him since Sophomore year in high school and it's a treat to be a part of how his career and talent has flourished. Surely by now he could afford a decent ring for me...

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

megan. twice studios. fancy pants.

My friends are super talented people of Iowa. Check out Megan Pitt from Twice Studios in Juice.

JUICE ARTICLE

the day the onion rings died.

Today is kind of a sad day in my heart and I wish I didn't have to work so I can go say good-bye to my beloved La Pizza House. I will mourn the loss of their spaghetti sauce for years and will dearly miss their onion rings and italian salads. I fed my sister her first solid food there-an onion ring, had many a birthday gatherings there, and remember going there as a child with all my family. Some times good things don't last, but I never thought I'd say good buy to La Pizza House so soon.

Day 15 → Something or someone you couldn’t live without, because you’ve tried living without it.

Day 15 → Something or someone you couldn’t live without, because you’ve tried living without it.

Some of these truths aren't really possible for me to do. It's not that I go through people, but there's a reason they're no longer in my life. However...

I really miss singing. Sure I still do it in the car, shower, and kitchen but it's not the same. I miss choir and performances. All the practice and preparation for a half hour concert. I also miss dancing. No, I wasn't that great at it, but it was very freeing and kept me in shape. I think if I went back to dance I would try a style more liberating than hip hop and kick-like contemporary or lyrical. I don't feel like I have to be great at it to enjoy it. I'm not bragging, but I am a good singer and I think that's why I miss it so much. It's an extension of who I am and I dropped the ball with it. I should have double majored in music and some sort of photography or art program. Shoulda coulda woulda.

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Day 14 → A hero that has let you down. (letter)

Day 14 → A hero that has let you down. (letter)

I had a hard time with this, because I don't know that I have a hero that has let me down. So I chose this solution....

Dear Grandma Judy,
You are my hero. You never let me down, but now that you're gone I wish I would have taken more time to learn from you. You taught me a lot and molded me into a good, loving person. You never held me back or discouraged me from the strangest ideas. I miss you and am learning each day more and more the person that I am.

Love,
Katy Jo

i want books!

One Yard Wonders

Monday, August 2, 2010

bubbles.

My nephew and I's favorite thing to do at my house is play in the sprinkler and blow bubbles-shoe free that is! I love being an aunt so much.

Day 13 → A band or artist that has gotten you through some tough ass days. (write a letter.)

Day 13 → A band or artist that has gotten you through some tough ass days. (write a letter.)

Dear John, Paul, George, and Ringo-
When I thought there was no way to put how I felt into words I could always look to you boys. There were so many translations and depth to your music. One album allowed every emotion to come out in me. I guess I just want to say thank you for being such an inspiration and opening my eyes to the possibilities of music and also to other aspects in life.

Sincerely,
Katy Jo

Day 12 → Something you never get compliments on.

Day 12 → Something you never get compliments on.

I never get compliments on how clean my house is. I apologize for it, but deep down I don't really care-and none of my friends do either.

Sunday, August 1, 2010

Day 11 → Something people seem to compliment you the most on.

Day 11 → Something people seem to compliment you the most on.

My 4 dimples on my cheeks, my wooden earrings, and my butt. Three very random things, but make me feel good none the less.

Day 10 → Someone you need to let go, or wish you didn’t know.

Day 10 → Someone you need to let go, or wish you didn’t know.

I can't think of a single person that I want to let go or wish that I hadn't. Every relationship that has ever drifted out of my life has been for a reason and I don't care to dwell on the matter. There is one person that will always have a spot in my heart that I just can't seem to get rid of, but weather or not I want to let him go is another story and matter all together.
Each person I've met has been for a reason as well and I don't wish I didn't know them as much as I wish I wouldn't have kept them in my life as long as I did. I have learned a lesson from all of these people and for that I'm not fulling able to answer this question.