cjacks.com

Welcome to cjacks!

I am so happy you have decided to visit my blog. Here you can see some of my musings, creative projects, recipes and whatever else catches my fancy. You can also check out my social media.

Watercolor Doodles

I was in the mood to dig out the watercolors the other day. It had been a while since I last did one, so I decided to try a few doodles to scrub off the rust, so to speak. I didn't have too much of a plan besides trying a sunset or two.  That evolved into using scrap...

Pattern Review: Pineapple Peacock Shawl

This is going to be a pretty short review.   I have made this pattern a few times and really enjoy making these. They work up pretty fast, but you will need to watch your counting.  Be sure to lay it out occasionally to ensure there are no skipped repetitions!  I did...

Blast from the Past

Years ago (2015-2017) I had the privilege of living out a childhood dream - to be in a band.  I never shared any of my videos and photos on my blog, but it was an experience!  We were known then as Psychedelic Revival and played mostly 60's music. As the new year...

Hippie Bench Revamp

A few years ago My folks were getting rid of an old beat up bench that they had, so I decided I could take it and have a few more years use out of it. Well, after a year, the middle board rotted and I thought it had outlived its usefulness. But, being who I am, I...

Pokemon Graph-ghan

TIPS This is my first graphgan. It has crossed off one thing from my huge bucket list whilst simultaneously making what, I hope, will make my friend happy (and warm)  during these cold months in PA.  This is my first attempt at doing a graphgan.  I created the pattern...

Pattern Review: Basic Bralette

 Using some leftover yarn I had, I decided to give the basic bralette pattern by Morale Fiber a go.  Overall, I found the pattern extremely well written and it worked up pretty quickly. I am pleased with the result, with a few caveats: 1. Check your gauge.  I *never*...

Bastet: La Chatte Noir

I have long loved Art Deco/Art Nouveau and Poster Art. Back in the late 90s, I saw Théophile Alexandre Steinlen's 1896 Color Lithograph poster for the cabaret called Le Chat Noir.  I had always wanted to try my hand at doing a version of the poster but never got...

Reading by Candlelight, Episode One: “Second Best,” by D.H. Lawrence

Welcome to the first episode of "Reading by Candlelight!" I thought it would be fun to share some literature with you read by candlelight for some relaxing ambiance. In this episode, I read "Second Best," by D.H. Lawrence. Read more about D.H. Lawrence:...

Pattern Review: Crochet Boho Tank

I made the top available here a few years ago and opted to give it a whirl for a second round. This time, though, the yarn I used made much bigger squares, which is not a big surprise because the pattern called for a yarn that took a 4.5 mm, and the yarn I used called...

Pattern Review: Tassel Shawl (Crochet) by Lionbrand

Pattern Review: Tassel Shawl by Lionbrand Yarn using a “Shawl in a Cake” skein in Namaste Neutral

Let’s Make Tembleque!

Let’s Make Tembleque!

Tembleque is a delicious coconut custard dessert that I have loved ever since I could remember. I always made it using the box mix available in the Goya section, but the other day I tried it from scratch when I couldn't find the box at the store. I was quite surprised...

Rebate Rejection Rant

Rebate Rejection Rant

Today I was rejected through the mail for a rebate on some vodka because I am evidently "not of valid age to participate." Ok. That's a first. I mean, a few years back I'd get carded here and there - and occasionally still do, I might note, if some guy happens to...

A Thank You Note to My Mom

A Thank You Note to My Mom

A Thank You Note to My Mom   When I am sad, your tears share my pain. When I am happy, your joy echoes the same.   In my mirrored eyes, I can see you there, reflected back at me. In many ways you are me as I am you and of this gift I strive be be worthy in what I do....

Tie Dye Canvas Shoes with Sharpies!

Tie Dye Canvas Shoes with Sharpies!

Here's my latest craft: Tie Dye Shoes, but with Sharpies and Rubbing Alcohol! I have had these shoes for 21 years (and no, I am not exaggerating!). They were white shoes, but the years were not kind to them in back of my closet. Even after washing them in the washing...

Experiment in Poetry #1

Experiment in Poetry #1

It has been awhile since I've written a "poem."  I've done some lyrics for my band, Psychedelic Revival (check out Willow and Snakeskin and Whiskey) and done some writing here and there for a novel that's been on the back burner for a bit, but I haven't really done...

Bye Bye 2016!

Bye Bye 2016!

As I get ready to go to my folks' for our annual "clam night" wherein I shall feast upon, you guessed it - clams! - and stay up all night watching Twilight Zone, I look back over 2016 and think about the year ahead. There was a lot to be thankful for in 2016, as there...

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