Emma's Music

How Cheerfully He Seems to GrinSong Sketch

2012-01-30T09:29:00.000-05:00

So, here is a little, teensy recording I did of the poem "How Doth the Little Crocodile" from Alice in Wonderland for last Friday's literary-minded Rose-Colored Radio Show. This was the part of the Disney movie that always seemed to get in my head when I was a little girl so when I picked out a poem to 'read,' this was the one I chose!

Seventeenth Episode of Rose-Colored Radio Show Brought to you by the Smell of Books

2012-01-27T10:04:00.000-05:00

In which we embrace the companions, escapes, and teachers that are books and hear the latest spine-chilling Pepper Jones episode.

We're All Mad Here from "Down the Rabbit Hole" is available on iTunes.

Written by Sally Flynn and Emma Wallace

Dinna Be Afraid to Cry...

2012-01-25T10:06:00.000-05:00

I could go on (and on) about my disappointment at the Academy Award nominations, but I have simply come to the realization that my point of view and the Academy's point of view of what constitutes an award-winning movie/actor/song/etc. is vastly different.

BUT, I did want to post up this preview of an absolutely beautiful and sweet, and really, quite wise, short film, The Ballad of Nessie, that was, unfortunately, not nominated. I think everyone should see it - the sentiment is rather rare - and the movie that comes with it, Winnie the Pooh, is also perfect.

It's about a sweet monster named Nessie who gets kicked out of her lovely pond so a greedy tycoon can make a golf course. She tries to 'keep a stiff upper lip' as she searches for a new home for herself and her dear friend, McQuack... Any more and you'll have a spoiler! But I can promise you, it's a wonderful ending.

P.S. Be sure to come back on Friday for this week's Rose-Colored Radio show!

Happy Year of the Dragon! Song Sketch

2012-01-23T09:19:00.002-05:00

As you may have guessed, I'm a very big fan of new beginnings and celebrations and today is... Chinese New Year! The year of the Dragon! How exciting and fortuitous is that?!

So, in observation of the most exciting day of the past twelve years, I'm posting a song from my c.d. Love Songs and Lullabies called "Odayaka-na Yume No Shogusha" which is about a guardian dragon. The violin was provided by the amazingly talented Marie Bee.

It'll be free until the end of the week so be sure to download it if you don't already have it!

Hoping this year is the most wonderful and magical year yet for you!

*For those who have already downloaded the song from iTunes or the like, don't worry - I'll be posting up a never-before-heard free song that will be on my Friday podcast for download on Monday.

The Beauty of Beginnings

2012-01-20T10:24:00.000-05:00

I am lucky enough to have Sally* of Flying Down to Hollywood as a cowriter for my hit radio show, Rose-Colored Radio. I always love what she writes but her ending for my latest show, the New Year's show, was so beautiful and inspiring, I thought it deserved, nay, needed to be written out for everyone, even those that (believe it or not) don't listen to the podcast, to read.

...let’s take a moment to admire the beauty of beginnings. Aren’t beginnings beautiful things? New Year’s is a wonderful holiday because it’s a time for a new perspective. It’s a time to do what you’ve always wanted to do, become what you’ve always wanted to become, to decide what it really is you want to do when you grow up.

Now as we step tentatively into 2012, we take a brief look back at 2011. Goodness! Think of how much you accomplished! Think of all that you did, all of the people you met, all of the wonderful food you tasted, the books you read, the movies you watched, the podcasts you discovered. You deserve a round of applause for all that 2011 brought to you.

Now we can go boldly into 2012, knowing that we can do anything, we can do everything. We can keep our resolutions or we can break them – either way, we were brave enough to try, to change, to grow.

--- Sally Flynn

*She did a brilliant guest post for me on Monday! Please read and be enlightened!

SOPA

2012-01-18T08:28:00.002-05:00

No blog post today! I stand with Wikipedia and They Might Be Giants

So sing a silly little rhyme and have a cup of coffee

2012-01-16T00:01:00.007-05:00

Hello everyone! I'm Sally from Flying Down to Hollywood! I'm doing a spontaneous guest post for Emma today. It's a spotlight on a musical number from a lesser known MGM musical: Yolando and the Thief (1945). The song is called "Coffee Time" and is performed by Fred Astaire and Lucille Bremer. I'm currently reading a book about the MGM musicals produced by Arthur Freed (it's a fascinating read by Hugh Fordin) and I learned some things about this number.

found here.

Well, mainly, that the costume designer, Irene Sharaff would often design her costumes with a backdrop in mind. There are pictures of her designs with a doodle of a set in the background. This being the case, she was, in part, responsible for some of the set designs for the films she worked on. When she designed the costumes for this number, she decided to make the principal color cafe au lait. She then decided that the costumes would work best on a contrasting floor and she, herself, sketched the pattern on the floor for the studio painters. How crazy is that? I love that one woman made such a difference in these productions. In my opinion, the floor is a major component in this scene. It makes the whole floor pop and I'm left figuring out whether or not the floor is actually moving like that (it isn't). Anyway, enough of my chatter. Here's "Coffee Time."

Sixteenth Episode of Rose-Colored Radio Show Brought to you by toasting the New Year

2012-01-13T11:13:00.000-05:00

In which we proudly embrace our new New Year's resolutions and celebrate all we've accomplished.

Six Impossible Things Before Breakfast from my new EP, "Down the Rabbit Hole"

Written by Sally Flynn and Emma Wallace

I Feel Pretty...

2012-01-11T09:55:00.001-05:00

My home page designed by Kate Gabrielle!

I am sure I've gabbed on and on about my fab-yoo-luss new website and I feel like those of you who are in the market for fabulosity should consult my absolutely amazing blog designer, Miss Kate Gabrielle.

The exciting thing is - she has partnered up with Casey who is a wiz with WordPress to create Scathingly Brilliant Blog Design so now, no matter what your platform is for your blog or website, you can have a dazzling design from these delightful dames.

Here are some of the sites they've done (beside mine, of course!):

P.S. Hopefully we will have a new Rose-Colored Radio Show up on Friday so be sure to come back by and delight your ears!

How I Have Survived My Flu

2012-01-09T09:49:00.000-05:00

My cozy slippers have been with me the whole ride, sniffles to sore throat to sneezes to coughs and back again. They are dear to my heart. And feet.

So... as you may have read in my previous post, I have been suffering from a flu. Sigh. (And cough, cough!) I don't think I've actually been sick in a few years so it's not really a tragedy but I confess I'm not really sure what to do when I'm sick! The good/not good thing about being sick with a baby is that I don't spend the whole day in bed because, well, he's not really interested in spending the whole day in bed and I'm not interested in spending the whole day in bed while he's on the loose.

Would you want this little guy on the loose?

But I'm on the other end of my bout with the flu and I will share with you, loyal readers, how I got through it.

I absolutely adore fancy, schmancy tea but this tea that I found at Target is my current favorite, unfancy/schmancy as it is.

I have been eating the pumpkin bread from a Trader Joe's mix (sent in a Christmas care package from my loving brother since we don't have a Trader Joe's here) but this one from Andrea Meyers' blog looks delicious too!

I watched this movie with my sister whilst in the throes of the illness. Funny and charming, might I just say!

So, as you can see, I didn't do too badly off, being sick! I recommend my get-well regimen to anyone, ill or not!

Due to the Dramatic and Stormy Recording of...

2012-01-06T09:23:00.000-05:00

...our Pulitzer-prize-nominated Rose-Colored Radio Christmas special, we have all caught colds. My tones now being more donkey than dulcet, I trust you would not be interested in hearing my radio show today. However, we will have a call-in portion of the show for the next podcast, so please feel free to submit any Rose-Colored questions you may have to rosecoloredradio@gmail.com.

Happy, Happy New Year!

2012-01-04T10:19:00.000-05:00

Auld Lang Syne by iamemma

I hope 2012 is one of your best years yet and that the dreams you're hoping for fall into place perfectly.

Love you!
Emma

P.S. My New Year's podcast will be up on Friday! Come by and hear it!

Fifteenth Episode of Rose-Colored Radio Show A Rose-Colored Christmas Special

2011-12-22T20:43:00.000-05:00

Fifteenth Episode - Christmas Special by Rose Colored Radio Show

In which we celebrate stockings and surprises... with some surprises in store for us as well! You'll laugh. You'll cry. You'll get the warm and fuzzies.

Rabbit Hole from "Down the Rabbit Hole" now available on iTunes, Amazon and CDBaby.

Written by Emma Wallace and Sally Flynn

Christmastime Is Here

2011-12-21T11:33:00.000-05:00

This post was written as part of Sally's 12 Days of Christmas blogathon. Visit her site on Christmas Eve to read reviews, write-ups and more from other fine bloggers that have participated!

I know you know the jazzy tones of Charlie Brown's Christmas when it plays during the holiday season but have you ever wondered how such an unconventional style of music became associated with a kids' holiday special?

The director, Lee Mendelson, had known he wanted a jazzy soundtrack but hadn't decided who would compose it. Then in a car ride one day, he stumbled upon then unknown Vince Guaraldi when his song came on the radio. Mendelson approached Guaraldi with the job offer and when Guaraldi called Mendelson up two weeks later and played Linus and Lucy for him, he knew he had found the right person.

However, the network didn't think jazz was appropriate for a children's film at all and before the animated special even showed, they told Mendelson that the music, among other things, were not network-friendly and so they wouldn't be hiring him back. Ahem. As you can imagine, the show did spectacularly well and both audience and critics alike loved the film and the soundtrack.

The soundtrack is rare in the fact that it has never gone out-of-print since its first release and remains a staple in Christmas playlists year after year.

Merry Christmas, Charlie Brown!

P.S. Be sure, very sure, to come back on Friday for my Rose-Colored Radio Christmas Special! It will be the best show yet...

Gifts for Last Minute Gift Guides for the Hard-to-Buy-For

2011-12-19T00:44:00.000-05:00

Sofia Coppola Rose (at grocery stores)

Martha Stewart Knit and Weave Kit from Michaels

From Pier 1 Imports

From Starbucks

You sit back, a cup of tea in your hand, and sigh luxuriously. Sure, all the Etsy sellers are unable to ship any gifts by Christmas anymore and the mall parking lot is jam-packed; you've done all your shopping and have the boxes in your recycling bin to show for it. Then, oh no, your phone rings! It's your friend you see, maybe, once every several months and she wants to get together to exchange gifts! What?! You never thought she'd buy you a gift! How will you get her a gift that looks like you spent plenty of time planning it without having to venture into scary shopping territory?

I know you like to buy from independent sellers and that's why I love you, but sometimes, you gotta do what you gotta do. And here are some options for that moment...

And, you can always gift them my newest EP digitally through iTunes or Amazon, of course. They will never be able to contain their magnificent joy.

Down the Rabbit Hole...

2011-12-16T11:17:00.001-05:00

My newest EP is out! Completely and utterly released. I even have a new website designed by (the ever brilliant) Kate Gabrielle! If you absolutely adore it, please leave a lovely, glowy five-star review on whichever site you downloaded the EP from.

Fourteenth Episode of Rose-Colored Radio Show Brought to you by seeing your breath for the first time

2011-12-14T09:53:00.001-05:00

December 14 Rose Colored Radio Hour by Rose Colored Radio Show

In which we enjoy the wonders of winter... and the release of my newest EP, "Down the Rabbit Hole!"

We're All Mad Here is available on my newest EP, "Down the Rabbit Hole."

Written by Sally Flynn and Emma Wallace

Gifts for Girl-With-More-Expendable-Income-Than-You Gift Guides for the Hard-to-Buy-For

2011-12-12T10:04:00.002-05:00

from Cabin Fever, LLC

From Illuminated Perfume

from Vintage Confections

from the blue balloon

from naomilynn

Okay, so I've got a friend. A sweet, wonderful friend who buys herself designer things and only designer things. Well, I confess that I don't buy myself designer-things much less anyone else that. So here are some ideas to give the girl who buys everything...

P.S. Be sure to stop by on Wednesday to listen to my podcast for more great gift ideas!

Gifts for Dad Gift Guides for the Hard-to-Buy-For

2011-12-05T10:33:00.001-05:00

So, I do have an EP coming out very, very (very) soon but I'm still making my way through some administrative, technical, etc., etc., stuff. Therefore, I'm taking a brief moment to make a gift guide. Well, hopefully I'll take several brief moments throughout the month because I used the plural form of 'guide' in the title and it'd be pretty embarrassing if I only had one guide.

But, anyway, I know dads (favorite uncles, etc) are notoriously hard to buy for. They don't like candles (at least won't admit to it) or soapy stuff but you know they want something.

So here are some ideas I thought might be swell. Rounded them up at Etsy (as per usual) because shopping small business and indie designer is best.

From quiltery

From JC Hot Sauce

From Yarncoture

From RubyRed Design Studio

Honey For Me...

2011-11-29T23:51:00.000-05:00

Prelude in A by iamemma

So, one of the songs in my upcoming EP release (out any day now...!), is composed as a counter-melody to a Chopin piece. (What? That girl is a genius! Aww, thanks). I actually played it in last week's Rose-Colored Radio Show.

I thought I'd post up the actual piece that I play as the background in the song.

Hope everyone's Thanksgiving was deeelightful!

Thirteenth Episode of Rose-Colored Radio Show Brought to you by pie

2011-11-23T09:23:00.001-05:00

November 23 Rose Colored Radio Hour by Rose Colored Radio Show

In which we celebrate all the food (and the food) of the holiday. Featuring an ancient Emma Wallace family secret.

Temptation from the album "Temptation" is available on iTunes and Amazon

Honey For Me from the EP "Down the Rabbit Hole" will be available later this month

Written by Sally Flynn and Emma Wallace

Pie!

2011-11-21T09:10:00.001-05:00

Pie from lovebirdstudios on Vimeo.

A little spoiler alert... this week's Rose-Colored Radio Show will be sponsored by pie! To get us in the mood for eating (do we really need anything to do that? Eh, I'll take it), here is a fun, cozy video about pie - chocolate chip pumpkin pie, no less.

Baby, It's (not really) Cold Outside

2011-11-18T00:35:00.000-05:00

Free People

Anthropologie

jcrew

Although it really does get cold in Florida, despite what people think, it doesn't get below thirty degrees so the odds of me ever feeling cold enough to want to wear sweater leggings seem fairly low.

Nevertheless, here are my picks for warm legwear! My favorites are the J Crew ones. Cozy as can be.

Earrings, Ahoy!

2011-11-11T00:10:00.000-05:00

Pink Sherbet Blossom

The Last Leaf

Acorn Earrings

My Halloween special podcast featured the remarkably charming work of Molly the Pirate (a real pirate! Not really). I love how she places them in such creative collections. There are a lot of great jewelry shops on Etsy, but hers is one of my absolute favorites.

And, as a clip-on wearer, I love that she'll gladly make any earring set clip-ons.

Twelfth Episode of Rose-Colored Radio Show Brought to you by cinnamon brooms

2011-11-09T10:21:00.000-05:00

Image from here

November 9 Rose Colored Radio Hour by Rose Colored Radio Show

In which we celebrate the deliciousness and excitement of anticipation... and I make an official announcement! Featuring an interview with my backup singer, Miss Lola Mae Angeline.

Written by Sally Flynn and Emma Wallace

Exceed My Expectations Remixed is not available for purchase at this time. If you would like a copy of this version of the song, email me and I'll send you one!

Evening Prayers is available on my Alice in Wonderland EP

Out of the Jazz Box

2011-11-07T00:39:00.000-05:00

One of the songs from my upcoming Down the Rabbit Hole EP out this month (woohoo! hooray! yes! I can't wait!) is going to have a jazz box guitar on it! I admit - I wasn't 100% familiar with what that sounded like... so if you are the same, here is a YouTube video with someone playing that style of guitar.

Be sure to come back on Wednesday for this week's podcast...

Alice...(drumroll, please)

2011-11-02T01:13:00.000-04:00

I'm releasing an Alice in Wonderland-inspired EP this month (since Alice in Wonderland is such an under-utilized theme in music/film/art. Ahem) with five original songs!

There are just so many fun parts to the Alice story from the White Rabbit to the tea to croquet (which I actually never wrote a song about) so it was easy to find inspiration.

Although the visuals will probably be closer to John Tenniel's classic illustrations, I love this depiction by one of my favorite illustrators, Jessie Willcox Smith.

Happy Halloween! And Brownies.

2011-10-31T10:47:00.002-04:00

From The Whimsical Princess

First of all... Happy Halloween!

Sooooo... last week's podcast was sponsored in part by your favorite Halloween candy. My favorite is always (and always will be) Whoppers. Those delightful sour/sweet/crunchy/chewy balls of goodness I would trade six fun-size other candy bars for. Gladly.

Here is a recipe I found from The Whimsical Princess that combines the perfection of malted milk balls with the divinity of brownies.

Paula Deen’s Malted Milk Ball

Brownies

3/4 cup butter
6 1 ounce squares unsweetened chocolate, chopped
1 cup sugar
1 cup firmly packed brown sugar
1/2 malted milk powder
3 large eggs
1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped malted milk balls( I used Whoppers)

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Line a 13 X 9 baking pan with foil and spray foil with non-stick cooking spray.

In a small saucepan, combine butter and chocolate. Cook over medium low heat, stirring frequently, until chocolate is melted and smooth. Set aside to cool.

In a large bowl, beat sugars, malted milk powder, and eggs at medium speed until fluffy.

In small bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add to sugar mixture, beating until combined. Add melted chocolate mixture, beating until combined.

Stir in malted milk balls, Spoon batter into prepared pan, and bake for 23 to 27 minutes or until brownies are set in the center. Let cool completely.

Frost and garnish with additional malted milk balls.

Creamy chocolate Frosting

6 tablespoons butter
3 1 ounce squares unsweetened chocolate chopped
3 cups confectioners sugar
1/3 cup milk

In a medium sauce pan, combine butter and chocolate. Cook over medium-low heat stirring constantly until chocolate is melted and smooth. Remove from heat, and beat in sugar until combined. Gradually add in milk until frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.

Eleventh Episode of Rose-Colored Radio Show Brought to you by finding your favorite Halloween candy in your trick or treat bagHalloween Special

2011-10-26T11:04:00.003-04:00

October 26 Rose Colored Radio Hour by Rose Colored Radio Show

In which we broadcast live from a haunted house overlooking
a raging ocean! Including the latest episode of "Pass the Pepper." Be sure to have your electric candle nearby for this one...

Stay With Me Tonight from "A Reason to Stay Up All Night" available on iTunes

Written by Sally Flynn and Emma Wallace

Getting It Done With

2011-10-24T11:41:00.002-04:00

I, Emma Wallace, have figured out a way to get things-I-have-to-do-but-don't-want-to-do done: clumping. Pick a morning where you have something fun planned for the afternoon. Then, do as many of the things-you-have-to-do-but-don't-want-to-do as you can. And then celebrate! If I drag things out, I never finish them all. Plus, once that 'get it done' feeling is gone, it's gone.

What about you? Any special tips for getting those things done?

P.S. Be sure to come by on Wednesday - Rose-Colored Radio's Halloween Special will be airing!

For I Love From Head to Toesie

2011-10-17T10:35:00.000-04:00

I admit it - I love watching fanvids with my songs! What a wonderful feeling to see someone else be creative with my music.

This is the newest one I discovered - sooooooo adorable! Disney babies... enough said.

Music, Professor!

2011-10-14T10:06:00.000-04:00

As you could probably guess, I was very involved in music programs in and out of school. I can't imagine going to a school where chorus, band or orchestra weren't available.

I found Little Kids Rock yesterday - it helps schools in need make sure they can have chorus, band or orchestra available for kids.

How great is that?

Were you into music in school? If so, confess - chorus, orchestra or band? I was chorus all the way, baby.

Tenth Episode of Rose-Colored Radio Show Brought to you by birthday cake!

2011-10-12T09:14:00.000-04:00

Photo from here

Tenth Episode by Rose Colored Radio Show

In which we celebrate... birthdays! And all their joy plus cake.

Written by Sally Flynn and Emma Wallace

Alice In Wonderland from Alice In Wonderland EP-available on iTunes
Rabbit Hole will be available in November

What If We Really Could Make World News Good News?

2011-10-04T00:01:00.002-04:00

As you may (or may not) know, I tend to shy away from news. Too much bad, really. I prefer my Cooking Channel, Disney films and classic musical comedies.

But what if, instead of dreary, sad, depressing, the news made you feel excited about the world? Happy about the current state of affairs?

After reading/watching/hearing about the Girl Effect, I started to get really excited about the possibility of making the world a better place. For real - not for platitudes!

Watch these movies and spread the world! If the word gets spread enough, maybe I won't have to watch that rerun of Giada de Laurentiis for the umpteenth time...

I did this post as a part of the Girl Effect Blogging Campaign! If you want to read more posts about it and/or do your own post (which would be AWESOME), click here!

Come Back Tomorrow!

2011-10-03T10:48:00.000-04:00

I'm doing a Girl Effect post tomorrow! Click here to find out about the Girl Effect campaign.

Pumpkin Spice-a-licious!

2011-09-30T09:51:00.000-04:00

Pumpkin Spice Chai from TeaForAllReasons

Dark Chocolate Pumpkin and Spice Truffles from estheraguirre

Honey Soap Pumpkin Spice Latte Massage Bar from SoapAddicts

Pumpkin Spice Sugar Scrub from Aquablossom

Pumpkin Spice Muffin Candle from Sweet Light Candle Co.

As I mentioned on Wednesday's podcast, 'tis the season for pumpkin spice! Here are some marvelous treasures from Etsy that feature the autumn-ist scent or flavor ever!

Ninth Episode of Rose-Colored Radio Show Brought to you by pumpkin spice lattes

2011-09-28T08:07:00.006-04:00

September 28 Rose Colored Radio Hour by Rose Colored Radio Show

In which we welcome Fall with open arms, songs and more. Featuring an interview with backyard expert, Miss Becky Lou Bright.

Vivaldi's Autumn available for download here
A Reason to Stay Up All Night from my album "A Reason to Stay Up All Night" available on iTunes.

Written by Sally Flynn and Emma Wallace

Autumn - by Vivaldi - resketched by Emma Song Sketch

2011-09-26T00:12:00.002-04:00

Image from here

Vivaldi's Autumn by iamemma

Wednesday is my Fall-themed podcast (hurrah!) and I thought it'd be fun to have an autumnal song in the lineup. This is my sketchy take on a classic...

What do you think?

Happy Birthday, Little One

2011-09-23T23:58:00.001-04:00

Exactly one year ago this minute, my baby Peter was born!

How lucky am I?

Keep Your Computer Cozy

2011-09-21T09:49:00.002-04:00

From here

I saw these via an Etsy tweet yesterday and thought they were completely adorable. How many of us are just jauntily walking around with naked laptops when they could be outfitted from finders and keepers. And could you get much more unexpected when it comes to gifts? Love them all!

Now I Don't Care, I Could Go Anywhere With You...

2011-09-19T11:32:00.000-04:00

Musically, I tend to drift towards old jazz standards and 80s men (hello, Sting and George Michael!) with some Celtic or French women thrown in. However, I saw this video years ago and whenever I need a little pick-me-up, I watch it. It is SO sweet and lovey, it makes me eternally happy.

And I sing it to my baby every morning... <3

Eighth Episode of Rose-Colored Radio Show Brought to you by the blank page

2011-09-14T09:45:00.000-04:00

September 14 Rose Colored Radio Hour by Rose Colored Radio Show

In which we celebrate creativity and inspiration - just in time for International Dot Day on Thursday, September 15.

Written by Sally Flynn and Emma Wallace

Da Vinci II from Alice in Wonderland EP
Make Your Mark available for download here

Special thanks to Peter H. Reynolds for writing the book and encouraging creativity everywhere!

Make Your Mark

2011-09-12T11:42:00.001-04:00

Make Your Mark by iamemma

You may, or may not, know that International Dot Day is this very Thursday. Dot Day, inspired by Peter H. Reynolds' The Dot, encourages you to embrace your creativity bravely and 'make your mark.' We'll be doing a little feature on The Dot on Wednesday's podcast and for this momentous occasion, I wrote a little song about making your mark and doing what you want to do.

Hope this starts your week off happily!

Enchanted Shoes

2011-09-09T09:32:00.000-04:00

From Five Gardenias

I saw these shoes on the front page of Etsy and just had to post about them! Aren't they exquisite?

Sweet and Lovely

2011-09-07T07:32:00.000-04:00

Pic from here

So, back in July we had a Christmas party complete with Christmas goodies and stockings. One of the good-est goodies were these de-licious cookies from Nigella Lawson's Nigella Christmas book! Since they have cranberries, they're meant to be eaten at the holidays but I think they're perfect year-round - buttery, chewy and a wonderful mix of sweet and tart.

Now, we didn't try it with the amaretto since we didn't have any in the house but it was still amazing.

I'm planning to try out a variation with dried cherries and dark chocolate chips... mmmmm....

P.S. Sorry the measurements are all in metric, American readers! I had the book and they were adapted. But Google can convert them all and it's totally worth it!

Cranberry and White Chocolate Cookies

INGREDIENTS

100gm butter
40gm sugar
1/4 teaspoon vanilla essence
100ml Amaretto
1 egg yolk
140 gm flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
125gm ground almonds
150gm white chocolate buttons, chopped into slivers
1 cup dried cranberries
50gm icing sugar

METHOD

Serves: 12 - 16

Cream butter and sugar, add vanilla, Amaretto and egg then mix until combined. Add flour, baking powder and almonds, then mix lightly until combined.
Stir the white chocolate and cranberries into the mix by hand until evenly distributed. Roll tablespoonfuls into balls and bake on greased trays ( they will spread so leave enough room) at 150ºC for about 15 mins or until cooked and lightly browned.
Cool on wire racks until they are cool enough to handle and roll in the sifted icing sugar. Leave to cool completely on rack.

Be Happy...

2011-09-02T10:27:00.000-04:00

I know I posted a video last Friday too, but I saw this a couple days ago and I so much wanted to share it. I know it's twelve minutes long but totally worth it.

Seventh Episode of Rose-Colored Radio Show Brought to you by ice cream

2011-08-31T09:07:00.000-04:00

August 31 Rose Colored Radio Hour by Rose Colored Radio Show

In which we enjoy one last, lingering look at summer and its pleasures. This episode also features a short story hot off the press written by author Sally Flynn!

Featuring Come Here to Me and Exceed My Expectations from my A Reason to Stay Up All Night album.

Written by Sally Flynn and Emma Wallace

Ice Cream and (as?) Lollipops Vintage Confections

2011-08-29T09:01:00.000-04:00

While drifting through Etsy on a sugar-hunt, I came across these beauties from VintageConfections. I'm normally a chocolate and baked goods kind of girl, not really into hard candy, but these are so adorable, I may have to revisit the land of lollipops.

Since (spoiler alert!) this week's podcast is sponsored by ice cream, I thought these flavors particularly appropriate.

Yummmmmmm...

Will It Be Spicy? Will It Be Tangy?

2011-08-26T11:35:00.000-04:00

Several of the books I read growing up had canning and preserving in it so I had such a longing to experiment with making jams or preserves! Those gorgeous jars filled with colors and shapes sounded so romantic to me.

When they started playing this commercial on the Cooking Channel, I felt that longing all over again.

Have any of you canned before? Any suggestions for getting started?

So We've Got to Say Good-Bye to the Summer...

2011-08-24T09:38:00.000-04:00

I know that technically summer lasts until September 21 (or thereabouts) but for me, summer ends when school begins. Or at least once September begins!

Fall is my absolute favorite season (as I'm sure you'll be hearing a lot about verrrry soon) but for now, I was thinking about things that are summery that I'll miss!

I actually ate probably twice my weight in watermelon last summer when I was pregnant, so this summer, comparatively, I ate very little. Even still, it's the perfect summer fruit!

Being in Florida means that storms and summer are hand in hand. Which is FINE by me - I adore storms. And the clouds that herald storms are the prettiest.

Image from here

Just that feeling that you can be lazy... During the crisp days of fall and spring, I always feel like just lying around is a waste of time. But during summer (and the coldest days of winter), lying around is a perfectly acceptable expenditure of time.

Summer clothes... I love clothes for cool weather the best - especially since in Florida, most of the time you have to wear tanks and shorts when you're going outside for any length of time. But there is no denying the feeling of wearing the perfect sundress.

I Feel Like Teresa Wright...

2011-08-21T23:10:00.001-04:00

...because I was nominated for two awards in one day! Thank you soooo much to Sophie and Clara for this honor!

So, since Clara posted her award comment first, I'll start with hers!

Clara has a wonderful classic film blog, Via Margutta 51, that is not only informative but highly entertaining! I'm supposed to pass this award along to 3-5 bloggers who have less than 300 followers but deserve more.

1. Francy Flicks - also a movie review blogger who has a fabulous and unique sense of fashion. She puts a ton of work into each and every post and I always wish she had way, way more followers!
2. Just Add Glitter and Stir - this girl's blog is so funny. I always read it when I need a pick-me-up!
3. Puppy Love Preschool - a bit of everything here - music, fashion, animal photos - but always filled with prettiness.

Thank you again, dear Clara!

Then, dear Sophie nominated me for an "Irresistibly Sweet" blog award!

According to the rules I have to:

Thank and link the person who nominated me
Share 7 random facts about yourself.
Nominate 7 fellow bloggers for the award.
Notify the recipients.

So, thank you, thank you to Sophie for the marvelous award! She has a lovely blog, Waitin' On a Sunny Day, about classic film with gorgeous and fun photos - you absolutely must visit it!

Seven random facts, hmmmm...

I think I'll post seven sweet-related facts, so that they're not quite so random...

1. My favorite berry is blackberry!
2. Although I like ice cream alright and all, my true weakness (strength?) is baked goods! Love the cookies, brownies, cakes, donuts, scones, muffins...
3. My favorite summer drink is lemonade!
4. Although I truly adore sweet things, I don't put sugar in my coffee or my tea!
5. My favorite candy bar is a Mounds bar!
6. Although I love almost all dried fruits, I don't care for raisins. I'll take dried cranberries, dates or currants over raisins any day.
7. My favorite kind of chocolate chip cookie is chewy!

There are many sweet bloggers I follow and read - some of whom were nominated already for this award! So here are some who are irresistibly sweet and, to the best of my knowledge, not nominated yet!

1. Sara from She is Sara - music, fashion and great stories!
2. Samantha from Matou en Peluche - AMAZING art
3. Jacqueline from So Cute It Hurts - Although it doesn't hurt, really, to read her blog, it is undeniably, completely and utterly cute.
4. Gabbi from *Felinofelice - the best photo journals (is that the term?) around! Plus, she's super-duper nice.
5. Emily from Resplendent Tranquility - sooo dreamy and pretty! Love her blog.
6. Marie from Marie Bee - I feel so peaceful and inspired when I visit her beautiful blog.
7. Margaux from La Reine Margaux - quirky and fun! I never know what to expect when I visit her blog...

Thank you again, Sophie!

And thank you to all you wonderful bloggers who continue to inspire me on a daily basis!

Concerto in F

2011-08-19T10:24:00.000-04:00

So this week's podcast focused on music from a piano and I can't think of piano without thinking of the brilliant Oscar Levant. Well, that's a bit of an exaggeration as I think of pianos a LOT and Oscar only often. But you know what I mean.

In An American in Paris, my favorite scenes (beside the Gene Kelly and the kids scene) are the Oscar Levant scenes - the This Time It's Really Love, By Strauss and this one, Concerto in F. If you've read other entries by me and even the occasional interview, you know I have a weakness for Gene Kelly so the fact that my favorite scenes in a movie with him are the ones with Oscar Levant is pretty telling. George Gershwin was once asked who played his music the best and he said "Oscar Levant." Well, click on the pic (the post-er didn't allow embedding) and you see!

I especially love the part in the music at 2:35 and where the Oscar Levant audience member shows his appreciation of the performance - hilarious!

Sixth Episode of Rose-Colored Radio Show Brought to you by the music from a piano

2011-08-17T10:34:00.002-04:00

August 17 Rose Colored Radio Hour by Rose Colored Radio Show

In which I laud the beauty of the piano and entertain a completely legendary and unexpected guest!

Written by Sally Flynn and Emma Wallace

Fred Astaire is available on my Temptation album

I Forgot!

2011-08-16T00:34:00.000-04:00

P.S. My hair doesn't look like this anymore. But I haven't taken any photos of me with my new hair AND a piano.

Fur Elise by iamemma

I cannot believe - I totally forgot to do a blog post on Monday (and on Friday)! Badly done, Emma!

So, to make you all forgive me, here is a little impromptu Song Sketch - it's going to be on my upcoming Rose-Colored Radio Show for Wednesday, August 17.

Where Do You Go?

2011-08-10T10:16:00.000-04:00

I'd visit this room if it existed online. Isn't it pretty?

Thank you so much to all the suggestions for happy music! Now, as I'm on a roll with fabulous answers, I thought I'd ask another similar-ish question: where do you go online when you want to cheer yourself up or even just continue your good mood?

For me, I have several blogs and stores that make me feel sunny but sometimes, I read through all the blogs and then, well I've read them all! So, I'm looking to you, dear readers, to give me some new places to visit!

C'mon Get Happy or Suggestions Please

2011-08-08T10:25:00.002-04:00

So, as you can imagine, I love happy music, or even music that just makes me happy even when every little part of the lyric isn't necessarily cheerful. For example: Sarah Vaughan singing It Was Just One of Those Things or Naked Eyes singing Always Something There to Remind Me or Blossom Dearie singing anything.

But here is my problem: for a music-lover, I tend to dwell in the past, listening to jazz standards or songs from the 80s. If it's more current, it's probably from a Disney or Pixar film. *

So, can you help at all? What are some current artists (independent is even better!) that create music that makes you happy?

*This is a slight exaggeration, by the way. I have listened to some Jason Mraz and some Pink Martini and some CéU and some Emily Loizeau and some Rupa and the April Fishes and such, but I do feel like my music player could use some new life breathed into it!

Circus Came to Town...

2011-08-05T09:45:00.002-04:00

Karolin Felix

What a Novel Idea

On Wednesday, I did a circus-themed episode of Rose-Colored Radio Show so I thought today I'd showcase some gawgeous circus-themed jewelry from Etsy.

Tramps and Thieves

I'm not really able to be much of a jewelry girl since I have some 10-month-old fingers that are very grabby but that doesn't mean I can't stock up, right?

Sora Designs

Fifth Episode of Rose-Colored Radio Show Brought to you by popcorn

2011-08-03T09:19:00.008-04:00

August 3 Rose Colored Radio Hour by Rose Colored Radio Show

In which we take you to, wonder of all wonders, the circus! Enjoy songs and more that evoke that delightful experience of the circus.

Generously brought to you by popcorn.

Written by Emma Wallace and Sally Flynn

Song Sketch Situation: a Thought Piece in Two Parts...

2011-08-01T10:09:00.000-04:00

Song Sketch Situation:

So, here's the thing: technically, I'm not supposed to be recording and distributing other songwriters' work without paying a licensing and distribution fee. I can do public domain songs but for a song to be public domain, it needs to have been published before 1923.

Which, as you can imagine, somewhat limits my options.

Possible Song Sketch Solution:

So, I thought maybe there are enough people who love Song Sketches that they would be willing to pay $4 a month to get a free song delivered to their inboxes once a week on ____day. I need a certain amount of people to sign up for me to break even paying the licensing fees, but I really love doing covers and have been getting quite a few requests. If I did have enough people sign up, I'd cover a Reader's Request song a month (it really should be "Listener's Request" but then it's not alliterative) so that would be incredibly exciting! You'd never know if your request got covered and was sitting there, patiently waiting in your inbox on ____day!

In conclusion, if you think this is a service you'd definitely be interested in subscribing to, please email me or leave a comment below! I'd need to start getting licenses in order several weeks beforehand so I'd want to be sure that I have the minimum amount of subscribers.

Whew!

P.S. Episode Five of Rose-Colored Radio Show will be up on my blog on Wednesday! Be sure to come back by!

Class dismissed.

Seriously though, thank you all for your constant support!

Love,
Emma

It's a Grand Dress for Singing...

2011-07-29T09:06:00.000-04:00

Bess Georgette

I'm mostly an internet musician. I don't know if that's the proper term or anything, but basically I do the vast majority of my music interactions online, from freelancing to podcasting. However, as an entertainer by trade, I still am always on the lookout for the perfect dress for being on stage. Being a pianist adds a whole length-issue since I can't really wear a shorty-short skirt when I'm on stage sitting behind my keyboard. For obvious reasons.

Jolie Vintage Shop

Aaaand, the dress can't be too fitted because of the whole pedaling thing. As you can see, picking out the perfect imaginary dress for non-existent shows is quite the challenge.

Rock This Vintage

So here are a couple vintage dresses I discovered on Etsy I think would be smashing were I to have the perfect show to perform!

Pomp & Pride

Hello Dearie Vintage

Emma Sings a Sweet Song...

2011-07-27T10:57:00.001-04:00

If you've read my blog for longer than, oh, one week, you know I adore (adore) Kate Gabrielle's work. Well, on Friday, you won't believe what happened!

Okay, I'll tell you - Kate dedicated her latest print, Emma Sings a Sweet Song, to me.

How fabulous is that?! I love the print - the contrast of colors, shapes, the dress... I love it.

Be sure to stop by her shop for this print and other goodies (from jewelry to birthday cards to paper dolls) and stop by soon- she has a free shipping special!

Thank you so much, Kate!

Ahoy There - Giveaway Winner!

2011-07-26T00:45:00.000-04:00

Soooo, I random.org-ed it and the winner is comment #36....
Maggi!

Congratulations, Maggi! I'll email you with details and I hope you post a pic of you in your cutie pie new dress!

If you don't happen to be Maggi, don't forget there still is a 20% off sale going on and they are now doing free shipping for the rest of the month! So don't let luck stand in the way of you and that new dress!

Je Ne Sais Pas Choisir...

2011-07-25T10:58:00.001-04:00

So, it was so much fun theming my posts last week, I've decided to do it again this week! Crazy, crazy fun, I know.

This week's theme is... girl singers! Or girls singing? Or, well, the theme isn't quite as clear-cut as last week's but it is still awesome. Yeah.

This is one of my favorite girl singers - Emily Loizeau. I'm pretty sure I've posted about her several times before but in case there is a reader who has missed it, here she is again. Her music is just so happy and fun and charming - a wonderful combination.

The two songs I've posted are from her L'Autre Bout du Monde album; one is live (the guy plays piano backwards!) and the other a marvelously clever music video.

P.S. The giveaway of Shabby Apple's adorable sailor dress is on until Monday, July 25 at 11:59 p.m. so be sure to sign up if you haven't yet!
P.P.S. I did my Song Sketch on Friday instead of Monday... So if you are interested in listening/downloading, go back by!

Over and Under and Then Up For AirSong Sketch

2011-07-22T10:12:00.005-04:00

By the Sea by iamemma

I know, posting a Song Sketch on a Friday?! I'm a crazy rock star, that's for sure. This song was featured in my Rose-Colored Radio Show that I posted yesterday (here) during my nautical week!

The song is totally fun and free-spirited. Although it does have a less-than-feministic line: "Anything that Joe would suggest to her, Jane would always think it was best for her." Ahem, Jane, think for yourself, dear! However, I did somewhat bring her up to level with Joe by making her the one owning the car and driving... Ah, it's the little things.

Anyway, I also have a fabulous giveaway sponsored by Shabby Apple - go here to enter it! It closes on Monday, 11:59 p.m. EST.

Fourth Episode of Rose-Colored Radio Show Brought to you by Shabby Apple

2011-07-20T09:52:00.007-04:00

Fourth Episode by Rose Colored Radio Show

This episode celebrates all things nautical from ocean breezes to basking on the beach to adventure on the high seas to adorable sailor dresses.

Brought to you by friend of the show, Shabby Apple (don't forget to enter my S.A. giveaway!) and the breeze from the ocean!

Written by Sally Flynn and Emma Wallace

Ahoy There! A Shabby Apple Giveaway!

2011-07-18T08:52:00.001-04:00

I am a lucky girl.

Shabby Apple, the purveyor of gorgeous vintage-style women's dresses (they even have adorable maternity dresses for those who may need it!), has again offered to give away one of their dresses to a lucky Emma's Music reader!

I thought the perfect dress for the summer was this little beauty, the Admiral, because who didn't either adore their sailor dress when they were a little girl or want a sailor dress when they were a little girl!*

Shabby Apple is an amazing shop because not only are their dresses beautifully designed and very high quality, when you purchase a dress from them, they donate to micro-loans around the world! So you can feel good about your latest style indulgence!

They have a spectacular sale going on until the end of July where you can get 20% off any dress with the coupon code - Summer20 . If you want to wait until August to buy that perfect little frock, use emmasmusic10off anytime from now until August 17 (weirdly enough, that's my childhood's best friend's birthday. Coincidence? Well... probably).

If you decide to buy a dress as well as enter the giveaway, please click the little button on the side of my blog - it's the very best way to get to their shop...

Now, to enter the giveaway? Easy-breezy.

Simply leave a comment.

Want extra entries (I know you do!)?

1. Like Shabby Apple on Facebook
2. Like me on Facebook (awww! Thanks!)
3. Tweet this:

Ahoy there! Win the perfect summer sailor dress from Shabby Apple at @iamemmamusic 's blog! http://iamemmamusic.blogspot.com

4. Tell me your favorite summer memory
5. Tell me what song is essential for a summer soundtrack

For as many as you do, leave an additional comment!

The giveaway will conclude on Monday, July 25 at 11:59 EST.
Good luck! I hope you win!

*If you were never a little girl, but instead lived the earlier part of your life as a little boy, don't let that stop you! Surely there is a wife/girlfriend/sister/coworker/barista you would make insanely happy with this little dress! And I assure you - she wants a sailor dress too.

Kisses From the Sea

2011-07-15T11:36:00.001-04:00

Photo from here

Next week is completely nautically-inspired - on Monday, a nautical giveaway, on Wednesday, a nautical podcast and on Friday, a song from my podcast released as a nautical Song Sketch! So to get you in the mood, I thought I'd post a recipe that is perfectly sweet and beachy!

My mother made these candies growing up and they were even at my baby shower! I adore coconut and sweetened condensed milk (who doesn't, I ask?) so these candies are perfection! They're called "beijinhos" which means "little kisses."

The recipe is from Brazil (where my mother is also from!) and is traditional at parties.

INGREDIENTS:

½ cup of coconut milk
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 Tbls butter
1 tsp vanilla
1 cup of grated coconut
Cloves and granulated sugar for decorating

how to make it:
Cook over medium-low heat, stir vigorously the sweetened condensed milk, grated coconut, vanilla and butter. Cook the mixture until it pulls away from the pan.
Pour the mixture in a dish and let it cool to room temperature. Grease your hands with butter before starting to roll the mixture into balls. Take small amounts of the mixture with a teaspoon and make 1 ½ inch balls. Roll the balls over granulated sugar to decorate and stick a clove on the ball.

I Do Plenty More than Sit or Stay

2011-07-13T10:59:00.000-04:00

Here is a fan vid of one of the songs from my album, A Reason to Stay Up All Night! She used clips from Midsummer Night's Dream (the inspiration for this song) which I thought was appropriate for this time of year!

P.S. Maggi from Just Add Glitter and Stir is hosting a giveaway for my latest c.d. on her blog! Be sure to go by and enter!

And In July, a Lemonade...

2011-07-11T10:09:00.000-04:00

I wanted to do a post on handmade glassware for lemonade during these beastly summer months (and for Southern Hemispherites, relief from that beastly heater) and, lo and behold, there are approximately one zillion gorgeous/adorable shops that sell handmade glassware! I was trying to think of how to make this into a weekly series - "Glassware with Emma"- but decided to focus on the subject at hand which was tumblers for lemonade.

So here are some of my amazing finds from Etsy that will bring your summery lemonade-drinking up to an art.

Just as a warning, there may be a wine-drinking post coming up sometime...

P.S. Maggi is hosting a giveaway for my latest c.d. on her blog! Be sure to go by and enter!

You're Giving Me Away...

2011-07-10T21:50:00.001-04:00

One of my favorite bloggers, Maggi of Just Add Glitter and Stir, is hosting a giveaway for one of my lullaby c.d.s! Click here to visit her blog for a chance to win and also for a special discount code if you can't possibly wait to find out if you're the lucky one (odds are, you will be! I have a feeling!).

A Makeover for Your Blog slightlyterrific

2011-07-08T10:12:00.000-04:00

Pic from here

So, I'm certain you've noticed the wonderful redesign my blog has had by the hand and mouse of Ms. Kate Gabrielle! And now she's opened an Etsy shop for it! How exciting!

She has everything from an entire blog overhaul to an illustrated portrait for a blog header. If you want your blog to stand out in the sea of blogs, (in the crowd of blogs? In the gaggle of blogs? In the hive of blogs?) you should see what magic Kate can work on it!

Here are some of the many other blogs she's designed!
scathingly-brilliant.blogspot.com
modestjune.com
unicornsandoldlace.blogspot.com

Third Episode of Rose-Colored Radio Show Featuring a brand new work of fiction by Ms. Sally Flynn

2011-07-06T10:47:00.002-04:00

This episode was brought to you by the arrivals gate

Third Episode July 6 by Rose Colored Radio Show

In which we feature international songs from "Love Songs and Lullabies" and a short work of fiction by Ms. Sally Flynn (cowriter of "Rose-Colored Radio Show")!

Brought to you by the arrivals gate!

P.S. I am changing podcast hosts so if you are dedicated enough to already be subscribed to my podcast, you may need to resubscribe. Thank you for all your lovin'!

The Ladies, They Will All Turn Out Song Sketch

2011-07-04T09:26:00.004-04:00

When Johnny Comes Marching Home by iamemma

This is, by far, one of my favorite wartime pictures. I thought I'd do one of my favorite vintage (really vintage - Civil War!) wartime songs to go along with it!

I do look forward to the day when all our Johnnys and Janes can come marching home safe and sound and stay home.

Hope you all have a wonderful Fourth!

P.S. I have another Rose-Colored Radio Show coming out on Wednesday! Be sure to check back!

Paper or... Paper the Filigree

2011-07-01T09:37:00.000-04:00

Mermaid Paper Doll

Dragon Paper Doll

Mermaid Paper Doll

I stumbled upon this shop, the Filigree, when it was featured on Etsy's front page. I think I played with paper dolls more than real dolls when I was little (in actuality, I know I played with paper dolls more).

These are beautiful and a little bit eerie but I would have loved to have had several of these to play with as a child. They are made by Martin Obakke and Celena Cavala - a husband and wife team - he does the art and she makes the dolls.

I take back what I said before - I think I want one now!

What do you think? Were you a paper doll person or a dolly doll person?

Music for Movies

2011-06-29T09:17:00.005-04:00

As many of you know, it's one of my dearest, darlingest dreams to be a songwriter/composer for a Pixar or Disney film. When I was a little girl, I would notice the music from movies like Jungle Book and Mary Poppins and wish I could be the person who came up with those tunes! I would listen for certain music cues in Errol Flynn's Robin Hood or Superman. Writing music for movies, while not a career I'd want to do exclusively, is definitely something I'd love to do sometime in my life!

A couple months ago, my sister helped me put together a reel of some of the music I'd composed for various projects (some of the film from the projects weren't available so she added them to other films. In other words, I did not compose the music for Charade. Alas.). What do you think?

I Eat My Peas With Honey...

2011-06-27T11:20:00.002-04:00

I'd read, years back, that if one eats local honey they will create a natural immunity for the local allergens and no longer have allergies. It seemed so incredible, in a world where there are so many sufferers of allergies, that the solution was that simple so I never actually did it. However, last year, when I was just pregnant, my midwife told me that if I got an asthma attack (I've had asthma since middle school) while near my delivery date, it could mean serious complications and would definitely keep me from having the natural childbirth I really wanted. Her solution: a nip or two of local honey about eight times a day.

Well, I went ahead and did it, starting in February, and continued to have the occasional issue through spring but once autumn ended, I realized that I hadn't had an allergy attack or any asthma in months. Craziness! Aaaand, I still haven't - over a year later. I feel like I have to share this amazing thing with you. Here are two websites that may help you find local honey. It did take a while to kick in, but now, after years, I'm allergy-free!

And what tastier way to cure oneself, I ask?

http://www.localharvest.org/organic-honey.jsp
http://www.honeylocator.com/

P.S. Babies under one year can't eat honey. It's okay - they're sweet enough anyway! <3

Favorite Scents of the Summer...

2011-06-24T09:41:00.000-04:00

Salty ocean air

Sweet, fresh watermelon

Rain on the grass and the trees

The sugar-cookie smell of crepe myrtle

I think my favorite sense is smell (beside the sense of sound, taste, feel and sight, of course). There is nothing that can take me back to childhood than that green, sultry summer evening scent.

These are some others of my favorite summer smells.

What are yours?

Second Episode of Rose-Colored Radio Show Featuring an Interview with Kate Gabrielle

2011-06-22T08:13:00.001-04:00

This episode was generously brought to you by your favorite song

Rose-Colored Radio Show June 22 by Rose Colored Radio Show

Here it is! The second episode of Emma Wallace's Rose-Colored Radio Show! This one features an interview with It-girl, Kate Gabrielle.

Intangible? Not Anymore! Physical CDs are Available!

2011-06-20T09:22:00.005-04:00

Art by Miriam Wallace (my mama!)

I know you are all very desperate to buy lullaby cds to send to all your friends who are new mamas or daddies or are going to be new mamas or daddies or for yourself (as a perfectly relaxing collection of tunes) but how? Well, never fear! I now have physical cds available! Just click on that button on my side bar and you can order one (or four!).

If you want a note that is dedicated to the recipient, just let me know in the notes! I can also send it directly to the giftee.

So... Yay!

Also, on Wednesday, the second episode of Emma Wallace's Rose-Colored Radio Show will be aired. Please check back!

P.S. Kate Gabrielle featured me in an interview on her blog! Read and find out the deepest darkest secrets of my life EVER! Or at least a couple things you may not have known...

How to Shop Audrey

2011-06-17T09:28:00.003-04:00

Julia Denos, the illustrator behind the exquisite book, Just Being Audrey, has opened up a small shop on her blog! All of her work is so lovely (I loved her art before the Audrey Hepburn book so I'm soooo happy she's getting more publicity because of it!) so I was thoroughly excited to see that we can now buy prints and stationery from her. Hooray!

Visit the shop here.

Give Me an Earl over a King Any Day

2011-06-15T10:22:00.003-04:00

Earl Grey Solid Perfume

Earl Grey Shea Butter Soap

Earl Grey Sandwich Cookies

Earl Grey Caramels

Earl Grey Lollipops

I know it's not quite the season for hot tea, but, to be honest, that's never stopped me from drinking it! One of my favorites, Earl Grey, is such a gorgeous flavor and tastes like how I imagine a field of flowers smelling after the rain.

But why limit the perfect flavor to drinking it? Here are some (of many, believe it or not, fellow Earl Grey fans) Earl Grey treasures found on Etsy.

Earl Grey Cream

And here is my very, very favorite Earl Grey blend - Earl Grey Cream made at my favorite local tea shop, infusion tea.

What If I Like Sleeping Past Nine? What Then? Song Sketch

2011-06-13T08:53:00.002-04:00

My little sweetie!

Alternate Version - Come Here To Me by iamemma

I had considered using this song in my Love Songs and Lullabies album but thought I haven't been around quite long enough to be self-referential... Ha! But here is the version I did when I recorded that first version of A Reason to Stay Up All Night. It's pretty close to the original, but there are some differences!

Feel free to download, of course!

Thank you all for your encouragement about Rose-Colored Radio Show and all those listens! I'll have another episode up in the next week or so so be sure to check back!

Rose-Colored... Or, What Color is My Blog?

2011-06-10T09:44:00.001-04:00

You know that feeling? That rosy, warm, hug yourself feeling? That feeling that everything is going to be alright in the world, that the good guys win and that when the server brings the wrong dish it was just fate for you to get the better meal? That's the feeling I want listeners to have when they hear my music and for readers to have when they read my blog.

I've also started a radio show, erm, podcast dedicated to that, Rose-Colored Radio Show filled with songs, stories and more! You can hear the very first episode here!

I've loved doing Song Sketches and will still be doing them but I think they'll be more spontaneously scheduled.. You never know when they'll show up.

So, though my blog has always tried to be about happiness and beauty, I'm going to make a concentrated effort to only publish items that help my readers to feel that feeling and to see life through rose-colored glasses.

If you have any suggestions for a story, another blog, a song or even a shop that makes you feel that way, please don't hesitate to email me at iamemmamusic@gmail.com.

The Premier Episode of... Emma Wallace's Rose-Colored Radio Show!

2011-06-08T10:00:00.003-04:00

June 8 Rose Colored Radio Show by Rose Colored Radio Show

That's right, readers and (soon-to-be) listeners! I'm a podcastin' fiend. This is just the first of, hopefully, many episodes. Listen and tell me what you think! You can also subscribe via iTunes.

And still let me know what you think.

*This episode is no longer available on my blog. You can still hear it on iTunes, though!

I Couldn't Possibly Hushabye! Because It's Here!

2011-06-06T07:58:00.000-04:00

That's right! My newest album, Love Songs and Lullabies is out digitally! You can get it from iTunes, Amazon.com, CDBaby and many, many more much smaller music stores! Please download it and write a perfectly glowing review about how it helped your 3-month-old to sleep the second you pressed play!

I will also have physical c.d.s for sale, for those that prefer it and for gift-giving purposes, both on my blog and on my website. I haven't received them yet but as soon as I do, you all will be the first to know.

And, I'm starting a brand-new radio show - Emma Wallace's Rose Colored Radio Show that will be on my blog on Wednesday! It will be filled with songs, laughs and more so be sure to come back and have a listen.

Plus, extra-special thanks to Kate Gabrielle for redoing my blog. She is a genius.

Well, enough reading of blogs, go out and listen to my newest c.d.! And, as always, thank you so much for your support!

INGREDIENTS:
½ cup of coconut milk 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk 1 Tbls butter 1 tsp vanilla 1 cup of grated coconut Cloves and granulated sugar for decorating
how to make it:
Cook over medium-low heat, stir vigorously the sweetened condensed milk, grated coconut, vanilla and butter. Cook the mixture until it pulls away from the pan. Pour the mixture in a dish and let it cool to room temperature. Grease your hands with butter before starting to roll the mixture into balls. Take small amounts of the mixture with a teaspoon and make 1 ½ inch balls. Roll the balls over granulated sugar to decorate and stick a clove on the ball.