I’m back! Illusionaire Design is on a semi-permanent hiatus, but I want to keep a journal of my DIY adventures, so the page gets a new template and on we merrily stumble.

Current projects are a Batman knit cap for my soon-to-be brother in law, getting my  container veggie garden underway, sewing curtains for my niece, learning to make pickles, and sewing a BBQ grill cover and matching chair cushions for our patio.

Started pumpkins from seed, which is going well.  Found a variety that is supposed to do well in containers. Also experimenting with an Earthbox for tomatoes.  In the two years I’ve tried to grow tomatoes, I’ve gotten one fully ripened tomato out of the deal.  Supposedly the Earthbox produces a bounty for anything grown in it, so I’m reading up on how to can tomato sauces if I get lucky.

Made another batch of mint chip “ice cream” tonight, but my hand slipped with the mint extract so the flavor is overly strong.  Still not bad, though.  Taking a footnote from the vegan play book to make it – Silken Tofu + 1 banana + soy milk + sweetener (if needed) + flavor = yummy frozen goodness that tastes decadent but actually isn’t too bad for you. Calories are about 230 per half cup serving, but it is low in fat and sugar.  Most of the calories come from the banana.

Also playing with a dehydrator.  Made a double batch of Spam jerky this weekend.  Brought a plate of it to work and labeled it “Mystery Meat.”  It was gone by noon.