It’s now official. I have taken over every available surface with my various projects. Yarn for an obsession scarf on a chair…
Dollhouse, paint, brushes, and other supplies in a corner of the den….
Script and all Shakespeare research materials on the kitchen table.
Yes, I have a studio upstairs, but none of these projects can fit in that tiny space. So I guess you could say my studio space has expanded to include the entire house. There is relief in sight: I have one more act to research in The Merchant of Venice and then the books can be removed from the table. Speaking of MOV, as it has been dubbed in all rehearsal correspondence, I officially start rehearsals this coming Monday. My days will be long, but exciting, for about 5 weeks.
Yesterday, I needed to catch an early bus to Manhattan. When I woke up there were 2 additional inches of snow on the ground. If you had driven by MHC, you would have been treated to the sight of me shoveling snow in a parka and pink flannel pajamas. Oh, what blackmail photos could have been taken! Upon seeing me out there, Don yelled out the window and berated me (kindly) for not waking him up to help. Can’t help it…I just get a notion in my head and I start in.
It was a snowy bus ride to Manhattan and as I walked around Greenwich Village with big, fat snowflakes falling, I fell in love with the city all over again. Though there are some taller buildings in the area, the predominant style is a 2 or 3 stories. You aren’t surrounded by skyscrapers. It has much more of a cozy, neighborhood feeling. Very picturesque yesterday and very photo-worthy. Alas, when I am toting a bag full of the books I need for my work, the last thing I need is the additional weight of my camera! Once we get into the rehearsal space, my books can stay there and I will once again have my camera in hand. It will be fun to share some shots of the city with you.
Where did I stop? Do you have to guess?
The Magnolia Bakery, of course. As you gaze upon these lovelies, say a fond farewell. This is the last hurrah – at least for a while. We have been indulging in way too many sweets this winter. After the last cupcake has been consumed (and two of them are already gone) it’s lights out for sugar. This winter is one of the toughest we’ve had in a long time – more snow is due tonight – and since we have at least 2 more months of it, we’ll really be packing on some pounds if we continue at this rate.
I will miss you, pretty and delicious cupcakes. Sob.
I’d love to see some pictures of the city. And those cupcakes. . . oh, they are divine. Just looking at them makes me happy!
I just enjoyed a tour of your house from one of your old posts. Love the kitchen and all of those beautiful windows. I don’t think a kitchen can ever have too many windows.
Me Too….pictures of Manhattan! I’ve never been there and I’ll look forward to seeing the city through your Camera’s Eye!
Not only do those cup cakes look SWEET, but the sure made a SUPER Photo! I’m glad to see the Doll House Project again. Makes me want to start one, too.
Stay Warm in your Parka and PinkJams!
Oh no. Please don’t tell me you ate the one that was for me.♥♥♥
Cannot wait to see your photographs of the city. It has been awhile since I visited NYC.
Now, about those cupcakes! Sounds like long rehearsal days deserve a cupcake or two!
everytime I see your dollhouse with that grey roof I am struck by how beautiful it is! The cupcakes look so delicious! I’ve been trying to cut back too- I think you know. Winter is such a “snacking” time in my house too- funny that I don’t do that in the summer. I guess maybe the warmth and sunshine distract me? I would LOVE to see pictures of the city- I doubt I will ever get there to see it in person and I would love to see it through your eyes Claudia ♥
I know what you mean. We haven’t had a winter like yours, but when it’s cold outside, it just seems natural and comforting to eat something, anything, especially something not so good for me! I had my husband buy fruit yesterday with good intentions. I had yogurt with blueberries and wheatgerm for breakfast.
Did I tell you that our 2 oldest grands are going to be in a production of Annie? They were in Sound of Music a year or so ago. They love it. They both sing really well.
Hope your time in Manhattan is glorious!
I know the feeling….staying away from sugar is sooooo hard! They sure make for a pretty photo, though! I can’t wait for your photos of Manhatten. I want to see NYC one of these days. I am thinking of doing it this year…maybe. My husband doesn’t like to fly so we will have to be driving. That could be tricky with the traffic there. May have to consult with a travel agency! Be careful out there!~Hugs, Patti
I can’t imagine all that snow, let alone..living in it. My friend just moved there and lives in Brooklyn and works at Columbus Circle..she says the walk is just gorgeous. Maybe if you shovel snow all the time you could reward yourself with an occasional pastry…I’m just sayin’
tootles,
bunny
My mouth is watering looking at those lovely cupcakes. You will be busy, busy in the upcoming weeks. Enjoy and I look forward to seeing some pictures of NYC. Ann
Looking forward to the city snapshots!…and we’ve got the same darn snow here in CT. Ugh. Those cupcakes are just so sinful looking! I have packed on the pounds this winter too, trying to STOP THE MADNESS and eat right and exercise again, but the weather isn’t helping. *sigh*
Ohhhhhhhhhhh, goodbye beautiful cupcakes…. :( :(..I will miss you, too. Maybe you could deem one day a month as cupcake day.
I look forward to seeing the dollhouse come along. I had to leave behind a magnificent dollhouse when I moved from CT in 98…I was sad to see it go in my yard sale. I think I got $100 for it..which helped to put gas in my car to drive to AZ…but I sure would like to have it back!
xox Rella
It’s been so long since I’ve been to NYC – would love to see some pics of the city. Meanwhile, have a cupcake for me, please. Sweets have been asked to vacate the premises here too.
I miss them.
I look forward to pictures!!!! Ahhh, that cupcake looks GOOD!
Wonder if they make non-sugar, lowfat ones?!?!
If you need a nudge, come join me on Wednesday Weigh-Ins!!!
looking forward to your pictures of NYC…
shoveling snow = cupcakes as reward!
Do they make sugar free? I just made agave nectar sweetened Choc chip cookies…..yum!
Love and miss you,
Meredith
Your trip in sounds lovely. And who can blame a girl for having projects everywhere – it’s how we can multi-task!
We’re getting the snow right now 5 inches already with 8-10 more coming tonight:)
Are they gone yet?
Leann
Yikes Claudia,
I hope I haven’t influenced you in having your projects all over the place!! Just because I use 3/5 of my own home as studio/workroom/classroom, etc., I should not be followed as an example…..LOL Those cupcakes look decadent and so dangerous, but if you truly want to stop the sugar thing……please feel free to ship them to me!
Thank you so much for always stopping by to bring me cheer. You know it’s almost our anniversary (you and I) having met for the first time with a Valentines swap.
Love ya’
Meri
I love this post! I have projects all over my house and try to keep them neat but do not always succed. I do love the doll house so much! Thanks for visiting and your comments that always make my day! Hugs, Kerrie
Your dollhouse is DARKLING!! I have wanted one for years. ALAS! No room! My crafts take over the whole house too, and those Cupcakes? They look DIVINE!!
Me too! I have my sewing all over the front room and dinning room table right now. Just can’t help it..LOL
Yummmy those cupcakes look so tasty..and I know what you mean about packing on the pounds. I’m just a wee bit fluffy right now, o.k. a lot fluffy..LOL
Have a sweet day, hugs, Elizabeth
I think I got a sugar high just looking at those wonderful cupcakes… but it was worth it!
Hi Claudia, I am wondering which two were eaten first? I would like the violet frosted one, unless it’s not chocolate inside–pick me a chocolate one! I love the Village. And the entire city in the snow for that matter. There is a hush–really–that sounds like a cliche (put an accent on that last e) but it’s not! Sounds like you are very excited about your current project! Stay warm–10 inches due tonight. Linda
your house sounds normal to me. esp for the winter when there is no outside play involved. my friend ate the magnolia cupcakes and said they were just ok. are they that good? tell the truth.
xo
janet
Oh Claudia Sweetie…
Please tell me they were delicious. With my diabetes they took all my carbs and sugars away from me in September and these look and smell so yummy. I would snatch one of those chocolate ones up in a heartbeat.
Darn, I am never where I can get a good photo to share. I can just see you in your parka with those pink jammies. Darn where is a camera when you need one.
Sounds like you have a very busy schedule coming up. Merchant of Venice, oh how fun is this going to be. It will definitely keep you busy.
Hope you have a glorious week sweetie. Many hugs and much love, Sherry
My messes are all over my dining room. I’m glad to know that I’m not alone.
I gave up dessert too. I’m hoping that I can stay away from it for a few months (at least!)
Hi Claudia! I have missed visiting you! I have been so busy lately I just haven’t been able to read all the blogs I love. Sounds like you will be busy with your new coaching job and all these great projects you have going. I can’t believe you’ve only eaten 2 of those cupcakes, they probably wouldn’t have made it home if it were me, LOL! Have a wonderful cozy weekend, Nan
Those cupcakes are so pretty! I really love how they swirl their frosting on. I’d love to see how they get it so perfect.
I really love how your dollhouse is looking. My dollhouse needs so much work on the inside. I purchased the beadboard and railings a long time ago, but haven’t done anything. I just need to get brave.
Looking forward to those photos of NYC~ especially The Village. I’ve never been there, but I dream of it. Stay warm!
Hugs,
Jill
Hi Claudia, have you tried the banana pudding at Magnolia? It’s FHFB’s favorite. Looking forward to hearing about MOV in the next weeks – sounds so very wonderful! Ciao, bella!
The fhotoes taken in your home, are so beaytifull–
I love the doll house, and the yarn .
The cupcakes are like schulptures-and I can see –so delicius—hope you can turn the back to them next time being in their nabourhood, :)
xo, Dorthe
Oh, Claudia, I can’t wait to see your photos of Greenwich Village. I don’t know New York at all. Sad, isn’t it? Being that I’m not all that far away.
We got 13 MORE INCHES of snow last night!!!!!! And had a power outage 2 nights ago. Sooooooo ready for spring!
Donna
THE CUPCAKES ARE JUST LUSCIOUS, AND PRETTY.
I HAVEN’T MADE CUPCAKES IN A WHILE, LOOKING AT YOURS WANTS ME TO BAKE.
THANK GOD YOU DIDN’T HAVE TO GO TO THE CITY TODAY. HAVE A GOOD DAY, RELAX…..
RIZZI
Claudia, those cupcakes look divine! You know I’m a cupcake girl, too, and I’m packing the pounds to prove it. Florida has had Old Man Winter visiting here, hence it’s been chilly… any excuse to indulge! ;-) Today, it’s mac and cheese. Now that has been my serious downfall of late. I can’t just eat one serving. No. It has to be the whole pan, and it really has to be the pan if Mr. Magpie isn’t here. ;-) I need to join you on your pledge against pounds. Mine are starting to inflict havoc on my clothes!
Can’t wait to see the NYC pics. Have fun on your play. Wish you were rehearsing it in Florida, but I do love NYC.
XO,
Sheila :-)
are we related???? how funny. i too have taken over my house. i have an entire room dedicated to my stash, but i still continue to spread the projects around the corners of this house….i am there!!!
i haven’t changed my clothes in days i don’t think. with the kids home from school snow day after snow day, i’ll continue my motherhood pilgrimage in oversized floral flannels and my husband’s fuzzy army coat…in the snow…one snowy shovel after another….hair on end like some bad 80’s punk rocker….living among too many cookie piles and mounds of chips.
glad you had a chance to hit the city. that sounds nostalgic and fancy. good for you! i would have bought all those cupcakes.
lol
stay warm and hang in there with old man winter….well, he isn’t that old or he wouldn’t blow snow this hard!!!
take care
sue
love the dollhouse project. Have always dreamed of doing one of those. Wonderful blog, wonderful gal.
xo
joanna
I think of you every time I’m on the floor doing yoga during the evening national news. And they forecast snowfall after snowfall in your region! I think: Poor Claudia, bundled up and freezing shoveling that white stuff just so they can see out!
Brenda
I was just thinking about you the other day as they the news was showing snow in NY!! Having never been there before, I would love to see pics of Manhatten! What I would love MORE is a cupcake! Any left?
Your dollhouse is adorable!
LOL – I have projects spread out, too. Unfortunately, I don’t have a room just for creating.
xoxo
Becky
Love the house! Manhattan and the village in snow sounds so dreamy and great!! Wish I was there! Lori