Random Links for a Random Friday

I had to pause and post a few of my favorite links I've seen lately--everything from food to crafts to interesting designs. Pause, as we officially head into summer because yesterday was the last day of school.

No, wait, I take that back. School ended about two weeks ago and the kids have done nothing (and I mean nothing) but go on field trips, have picnics, watch movies, have parties and clean out their desks since then. Rather irritating really, yesterday I asked Spencer when the last time he'd done any school work was and after a thoughtful pause he said he'd done a couple math sheets on Tuesday but that was it. But today was first day they didn't have to report to the school building. I'll just leave it at that. I won't get into a rant against the public education system. I promise.

Anyway, on with the link list . . .

If you've ever wondered what to do if a moose dies in your yard (I know you've been lying awake at night worrying about it) wonder no more, because the Anchorage Daily News has helpful info. I warn you, it ain't pretty

And moose carcasses are followed by Stuffed Artichokes from Susan at Foodblogga--you know you're not only guaranteed a great recipe but a great story too.

Fresh Approach Cooking is also on an artichoke kick with her Wild Rice and Artichoke Bake. I'm going to make this one too. Just spring it on the family when they least expect it.

There's a new widget for momblogs and those who love them--the Mommybar. It's a toolbar for your browser that you can download and use to search all sorts of sites to help you in your job as a mom. Coupons, shopping, blogs . . . it's getting some good press since its release two months ago so check it out.

I you're looking for something to do, make an Amy Butler laptop cover for your laptop--it's just what I need. Anyone want to make one for me and I'll buy it from you? I want one so badly but don't know when I'm going to have time to make it myself. Or maybe I'll just make a laptop cover with three placemats via Curbly.

Check out this link from Bakerella who makes the cutest, teeniest little cupcake wanna-bes. Adorable!

Handmade by Calista shows how to make ruffly crocheted coin purses. Lacy and practical. Stick those in your Etsy shop and sell it!

If you were with me a year ago when I raved and sighed over my new induction cooktop by Diva then you'll understand how desperately I'd like to have a Turbo Chef oven. Fifteen times faster than the typical appliance, it's like an oven with Warp Drive. I'm dying to take one of those babies for a test drive.

Craftzine has a fabulous summer craft for you or for the kids--pressed nature prints in Sculpey clay. Why didn't I think of this?

Molla Space has this printed felt vase cover that allows you to turn an old bottle into a simple vase--you'll have to click through to get it--they're pricey but I could make one for myself. Or get the kids to make it, they'd have a blast stamping felt.

Sonja Style has a map purse that's completely fun. It looks like fabric but no, it's a map and clear Contact paper.

Remember Enzie Shamiri, the artist who is painting my daughter's portrait? The painting is coming along so beautifully, you really should check out the progress at World Market Portraits.

Technorati tags: Alaska, crafts, food, Turbo Chef