Drug-related jokes aside, growing these bad boys has been super easy and fun.  It also helps me with my inexplicable desire to grow food– despite having no land on which to grow it (except my boyfriend’s sideyard– thanks bb!)  Believe it or not, my mushroom kit is actually set up in my teeny pantry!

According to the kit’s instructions, they just need to be grown with water and in a certain temperature range, but things like light, humidity, and soil drainage (common houseplant requirements) are not really a big deal. The only reason I put mine in my pantry rather than under my bed or something is so I’d see it and remember to water it.  You could totally grow some under your sink or in your living room!

I’m really interested in other plants that can easily be grown in an apartment setting.  Normally the answer to apartment restrictions is “hey just use your balcony for container plants”.  Let’s pretend that most people who want to garden would be clever enough to think of that on their own if they had a balcony.  I don’t have a balcony, but we do have a little common area in the courtyard that could host some containers– but there are also toddlers with shovels and a Tonka truck.

If any of you are interested in gardening, I’m definitely going to post my research findings and my trials/errors here!  I already have my next trick up my sleeve…

I’ve been trying to find ways to describe my style now that I think I’ve more or less pinned it down. Sort of western mid-century modern, with a bit of glam.  I call it Classic Texas Prep.  More and more I think my apartment is starting to embody the look I most appreciate, which is exciting!

Imagine my surprise when I randomly walked into a brand new store that captures exactly what I’m going for!!! BelAir Studio & Design is my new favorite interior boutique here in Dallas.

Don’t you love that gold-spattered cowhide rug?  And the tablescape?  And that Warhol-esque American Indian painting? And the sculptural knick-knacks? I really couldn’t stop gushing with the owners, who were super friendly, chatty, and excited about their new store.  It’s only been open a few weeks, and I feel so glad I found them!

If you live in Dallas, you should definitely stop by– and let me know what you think!

I’m so excited about this little 4×4 plot.  So far I’ve planted swiss chard and spinach seeds. I got some great info at a free Starting From Seed lesson at North Haven Gardens, and felt really empowered when I left!  I can do this!  Vegetables, here I come!

Meanwhile…

My mushroom crop has started coming in!  These are the first two sizable shrooms I’ve gotten, but more are definitely on their way.  They almost double in size every day!

Between the mushrooms growing in my pantry and the reading I’ve been doing on growing bean sprouts, growing food is really something anyone can do!

Beatnik in turquoise yarn, BurdaStyle 01/2011 #103 in pink crepe-backed satin, Clovers in grey stretch moleskin, and bubble skirt in mustard cotton from chair slipcover project.

Other patterns I’ve got in queue: tangerine bow belt, a bright floral tunic, and a vintage-inspired dress.

Loafers, ballet flats, pumps, or wedges?  Which would you wear?

A hot, low-sugar and high-fiber way to start your morning!

Raisin’ the Bar Oatmeal

(Adapted from Up-to-Date Oatmeal from Moosewood Restaurant New Classics)

Warm 1-2 T butter in a medium or large saucepan, on medium heat.  Add 1 cup of steel-cut oats and saute for about 3 minutes, until oats have slightly deepened in color.

Add 3 cups water and bring to a boil for a minute or so, then reduce heat to a simmer.  Meanwhile, chop 3/4 c. raisins and bring to a simmer in 1 cup water with 1 heaping T cinnamon and about 1/2 t nutmeg.

Simmer oats for about 25 minutes, or until thickened to desired consistency. Stir raisin mixture occasionally, adding a tiny bit more water if necessary.  Raisin mixture should form a syrupy glaze by the time the oats are finished.

When finished cooking, remove the oats from heat and stir in raisin glaze.  If the oats seem thick, you can add water or milk. Cover for about 5 minutes, and enjoy!

(Total time: about 35 minutes.  Serves 3-4 people.)

Images: oats, measuring cups, raisins, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg

Image via US News 

Have you ever gone on a ‘staycation’?  I got some fresh inspiration and tips from Miss B at A Girl A Style, who tells us how to do it properly, and now I’m scheming on a weekend trip to Fort Worth!

These are some casual out-and-about ideas I had so far, based on items I already own.  How would you wear these puppies?

I’m making travel arrangements and just had the greatest experience… Have y’all heard of AirBnB?

I first learned about it on Garden Betty, who used the site to stay in a tree house!  At the time I thought it was a neat idea but didn’t foresee myself using it.

Cue: Texas Style Conference + SxSW on the same weekend = no room at the inn for Lindsay and her bloggie friends.  First I looked at staying further out of town, but I tried AirBnB just for kicks… and it worked!  Reservations in the heart of Austin: complete!

Granted, I haven’t actually completed the experience, i.e. stayed in the apartment or dealt with the host, but I’m thrilled thus far just to have a chance to stay close to the conference.  Since W was interested in joining me, I think this location will work out a lot better!

Have y’all ever used AirBnB or done a house exchange?