Whoa, two posts in one day? What, are you crazy?
First, I had to make a rush-trip across the mountains, as my mom is in the hospital. She has diverticulitis and is very sick, but she'll be OK. Bug and I are here visiting Grandma and helping mind the house.
I just found out that the CPSIA has decided to wait a year before putting the testing constraints into effect (and hopefully they can figure out something for small business owners.) Anyway, that means that I can continue to make and sell baby/children items. I'm so excited! Once I get home, I'll be getting started on a few new pairs of baby pants, and hopefully a few more items.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
End of the Month
(Decided to join the crowd.)
This month I am:
Growing ...
Paper whites, a viny thing which I always forget the name of, and two starts--aloe vera and another vine-y thing) from my friend Pam in Boston (yup, I took them all the way back in my checked suitcase! Nutty much?) Actually, the vine-y start is from a plant which I started in Seattle a few years ago (from an ancient plant of my mom's,) then it was one of the three pots of plants I made my husband drive across the country (along with the two dogs, rat, goldfish, and snail--I took the cat in the plane,) then decided to give to my friend because it's poisonous to cats (and kids) and my cat was REALLY into eating all of my plants, then harfing them up on my floor. OK, enough about plants. :O)
(Huh, that was a really messed up "paragraph." Oh, well.)
Reading ...
The Twilight Saga. And yes, I am currently reading the last one for the second time. I also read Me Talk Pretty One Day, The Alabama Stitch Book (mostly just looked at the pretty pictures,) The Kite Runner, Atonement, Mirror Mirror, and I think a few others which I can't remember. Oh, and all the Parents magazines they keep sending me. Is four in one month a little overkill? I think it is. I don't even have a subscription! And Real Simple, for which I do have a subscription.
Watching ...
I watched Twilight in the theater, and am going back to see it again (I'm obsessed, remember?) I also watched The Other Boleyn Girl, and a ton of Grey's Anatomy and Privileged which were eating up space on the Tivo. Oh, and Bug and I watch Curious George, Sesame Street, Peep and the Big Wide World, Bob the Builder, and Thomas and Friends. Oh, PBS, you are such a good babysitter, I mean channel!
Dreaming ...
Of success at the craft fair next weekend, which I have been preparing for rather obsessively. Handmade takes time, and so far, it has taken a lot of it! :O) Also a nice night out with my husband for Valentine's Day (who wants to babysit???)
This month I am:
Growing ...
Paper whites, a viny thing which I always forget the name of, and two starts--aloe vera and another vine-y thing) from my friend Pam in Boston (yup, I took them all the way back in my checked suitcase! Nutty much?) Actually, the vine-y start is from a plant which I started in Seattle a few years ago (from an ancient plant of my mom's,) then it was one of the three pots of plants I made my husband drive across the country (along with the two dogs, rat, goldfish, and snail--I took the cat in the plane,) then decided to give to my friend because it's poisonous to cats (and kids) and my cat was REALLY into eating all of my plants, then harfing them up on my floor. OK, enough about plants. :O)
(Huh, that was a really messed up "paragraph." Oh, well.)
Reading ...
The Twilight Saga. And yes, I am currently reading the last one for the second time. I also read Me Talk Pretty One Day, The Alabama Stitch Book (mostly just looked at the pretty pictures,) The Kite Runner, Atonement, Mirror Mirror, and I think a few others which I can't remember. Oh, and all the Parents magazines they keep sending me. Is four in one month a little overkill? I think it is. I don't even have a subscription! And Real Simple, for which I do have a subscription.
Watching ...
I watched Twilight in the theater, and am going back to see it again (I'm obsessed, remember?) I also watched The Other Boleyn Girl, and a ton of Grey's Anatomy and Privileged which were eating up space on the Tivo. Oh, and Bug and I watch Curious George, Sesame Street, Peep and the Big Wide World, Bob the Builder, and Thomas and Friends. Oh, PBS, you are such a good babysitter, I mean channel!
Dreaming ...
Of success at the craft fair next weekend, which I have been preparing for rather obsessively. Handmade takes time, and so far, it has taken a lot of it! :O) Also a nice night out with my husband for Valentine's Day (who wants to babysit???)
Friday, January 30, 2009
Red Owl and Bird Cupcakes
No, these are not my creations, but how I wish they were! They are so cute, and it makes me want to make cupcakes rightnow! Except that I did, yesterday...so I won't today.
Not a whole lot planned for the weekend, maybe some more long walks if the sun continues to show it's face. It's still pretty cold (37 degrees) but the sun feels nice. Today Bug and I walked a few miles, and now I'm off to work on some more stuff for my craft fair. Happy Friday!
Not a whole lot planned for the weekend, maybe some more long walks if the sun continues to show it's face. It's still pretty cold (37 degrees) but the sun feels nice. Today Bug and I walked a few miles, and now I'm off to work on some more stuff for my craft fair. Happy Friday!
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Why I Sew
My own clothes, that is. Liesle over at Oliver + S said exactly what I've been thinking about lately. Go on, go over and read the post, then come on back. I'll wait.
Ok, so why do I sew my own clothes? In addition to everything she said, I'm a tough size to buy for. I'm right in between sizes, and have been for years, so I don't think that's going to change anytime soon. Additionally, I like the idea of putting my own stamp on things, and once I'm over the whole "follow the pattern to the letter or I might be punished" thing, I'll definitely start in on that. In fact, the day before yesterday I chopped the sleeves of a favorite tunic-y top (from Value Village!) and made them short sleeves. (The 3/4 sleeve thing is not for me; it drives me absolutely bonkers.)
Anyway, just thought I'd add in my two cents. If I had been a bit more organized--and not hit with an icky flu--I'd have posted pictures of the cupcakes Bug and I made. He added the "sparkles." :O)
Ok, so why do I sew my own clothes? In addition to everything she said, I'm a tough size to buy for. I'm right in between sizes, and have been for years, so I don't think that's going to change anytime soon. Additionally, I like the idea of putting my own stamp on things, and once I'm over the whole "follow the pattern to the letter or I might be punished" thing, I'll definitely start in on that. In fact, the day before yesterday I chopped the sleeves of a favorite tunic-y top (from Value Village!) and made them short sleeves. (The 3/4 sleeve thing is not for me; it drives me absolutely bonkers.)
Anyway, just thought I'd add in my two cents. If I had been a bit more organized--and not hit with an icky flu--I'd have posted pictures of the cupcakes Bug and I made. He added the "sparkles." :O)
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Sewing Kit and More About Twilight
I finally finished this (thanks for your patience, Carm!) I just wanted to show everyone what she won, and brag a little. :O)
I didn't have anymore cool ladybug ribbon, so I stamped the twill tape for the bag. I think it turned out pretty cool! The needlebook and pincushion also look pretty sweet (IMHO.) :O)
OK, and why am I so obsessed with the Twilight Saga? I finished each book in around 3 hours--seriously ripping through them. I think it's because it's the ultimate romance--fighting for your soulmate, while not knowing if you will survive. And--ahem--beautiful people. Oh, and places (I'm a bit partial to the cloudy, rainy, green coastal Washington.) Anyway, it is always nice to submerge yourself into a fantasy world, even if you do have to resurface every once in awhile to do mundane things like feed your child, or change diapers. :O)
I didn't have anymore cool ladybug ribbon, so I stamped the twill tape for the bag. I think it turned out pretty cool! The needlebook and pincushion also look pretty sweet (IMHO.) :O)
OK, and why am I so obsessed with the Twilight Saga? I finished each book in around 3 hours--seriously ripping through them. I think it's because it's the ultimate romance--fighting for your soulmate, while not knowing if you will survive. And--ahem--beautiful people. Oh, and places (I'm a bit partial to the cloudy, rainy, green coastal Washington.) Anyway, it is always nice to submerge yourself into a fantasy world, even if you do have to resurface every once in awhile to do mundane things like feed your child, or change diapers. :O)
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
New House Tour: Bug's Room
I have Bug's room to a point at which I'm happy (not completely finished, mind you!)
This is the view as you walk into the room (he was playing in his bed, hence the rumpled bedclothes.) I'm not a huge fan of licensed character items, but the blankets were given as gifts. And they fit in perfectly, so they work!
The blank space above the side of his bed will eventually have a map of the world on it. I looked and looked for an old classroom map, but couldn't find any on eBay or Etsy, so I was about to give up when I found one at my neighborhood thrift store. For $4! Score! I just need to get a sheet of wood to mount it on, and then I'll be able to hang it.

This is the toy/book corner. I finally decided to get this chest from Ikea: it's from the Trofast line. I love the bright colored bins, and Bug likes to help me sort his toys at night. These are just a small amount of his books, as we still haven't bought bookshelves for the hallway. The rocking chair was handmade; it's like a puzzle, and can all come apart.

We bought the bedroom set with the thought that he could store his treasures on the shelves of the headboard, and extra clothes in the drawers along the side. So far it's just a place for Mommy to store all the pretties, but that's OK. The pictures and paintings above the bed are all done by me: the larger one on the left is a copy of a Picasso that I did in a color theory class.

I really like this corner--the shelves were a Target clearance find, and the two pictures and star/moon mirror were found at thrift stores. Oh, and also the little metal airplane I've hung from the ceiling. The train in the largest shelf, as well as the xylophone and pull-puppy were my dad's when he was little.


And, just because he's so stinking cute, here's a picture of Mommy's Little Man!
This is the view as you walk into the room (he was playing in his bed, hence the rumpled bedclothes.) I'm not a huge fan of licensed character items, but the blankets were given as gifts. And they fit in perfectly, so they work!
The blank space above the side of his bed will eventually have a map of the world on it. I looked and looked for an old classroom map, but couldn't find any on eBay or Etsy, so I was about to give up when I found one at my neighborhood thrift store. For $4! Score! I just need to get a sheet of wood to mount it on, and then I'll be able to hang it.
This is the toy/book corner. I finally decided to get this chest from Ikea: it's from the Trofast line. I love the bright colored bins, and Bug likes to help me sort his toys at night. These are just a small amount of his books, as we still haven't bought bookshelves for the hallway. The rocking chair was handmade; it's like a puzzle, and can all come apart.
We bought the bedroom set with the thought that he could store his treasures on the shelves of the headboard, and extra clothes in the drawers along the side. So far it's just a place for Mommy to store all the pretties, but that's OK. The pictures and paintings above the bed are all done by me: the larger one on the left is a copy of a Picasso that I did in a color theory class.
I really like this corner--the shelves were a Target clearance find, and the two pictures and star/moon mirror were found at thrift stores. Oh, and also the little metal airplane I've hung from the ceiling. The train in the largest shelf, as well as the xylophone and pull-puppy were my dad's when he was little.
And, just because he's so stinking cute, here's a picture of Mommy's Little Man!
Monday, January 26, 2009
Fabric Depot
Dudes! Fabric Depot is the best!!! I got the sweetest apron fabric (Park Slope by Erin McMorris!) plus some very pretty brocade and buttons! Oh Fabric Depot, how I love you, but I'm so glad I don't live too close to you...because I would spend lots of money. And that would make the husband not so happy. But I digress...I love you Fabric Depot! (This was last weekend.)
(This weekend.) We spent a quiet weekend doing not so much, but it was nice. A pan of lemon bars, a Mom's Night Out, and playing in the (cold) sun with the wagon...doesn't get much better than that!
(This weekend.) We spent a quiet weekend doing not so much, but it was nice. A pan of lemon bars, a Mom's Night Out, and playing in the (cold) sun with the wagon...doesn't get much better than that!
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Busy busy busy
I'm making lots of things right now...this quilt was sent to LauraJ. I'll post more picks when she's received it! :O)
I also received the quilt she sent me--it's gorgeous and I love it!!! I think I could stare at it all day!!!
I'm getting ready for a craft fair, so I'm so busy making things!!!
Thank you to everyone for all your words of encouragement...I'm definitely under control, just had a "moment" of self-doubt. But it's better now!
I also received the quilt she sent me--it's gorgeous and I love it!!! I think I could stare at it all day!!!
I'm getting ready for a craft fair, so I'm so busy making things!!!
Thank you to everyone for all your words of encouragement...I'm definitely under control, just had a "moment" of self-doubt. But it's better now!
Thursday, January 22, 2009
On the Mend
Sorry for the recent "outage" here at the ol' blog. I was bit by the depression bug, but now I'm fine.
Does anyone else suffer from depression? I mean the kind you take medication for? I could really use some people to talk to...
OK, that's it for now! On to finishing some neglected projects! :O)
Does anyone else suffer from depression? I mean the kind you take medication for? I could really use some people to talk to...
OK, that's it for now! On to finishing some neglected projects! :O)
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Color Week--Pink
Hmmm...there's not a whole lot of pink in our house (living with two boys will do that to you!) But I managed to find little bits here and there! Don't forget to check out all the players here!



Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Color Week--Yellow
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Color Week Blue and Purple
Giveaway Winner!
I asked Random.org to generate a random integer for me, and they said 12, who is Carm!
Carm said...
I love all the fabric choices. What fun! I guess my favorite is the yellow flowers!
So, Carm, look for an email from me today, so I can get some contact information!
Thanks for playing!
(Oh, and I fully intend to play along with Color Week. Pictures have been taken, and I will post them soon. I'm just trying to do mountains of laundry, and unpack all of our vacation goodies before our house guests arrive tonight.)
(Oh, and I totally RIPPED through Twilight (2.5 hours)...I need the next one rightnow! Seriously, I would like to go to Borders rightnow and buy the whole set. I might just do it. Edward and Bella, I love you.)
Carm said...
I love all the fabric choices. What fun! I guess my favorite is the yellow flowers!
So, Carm, look for an email from me today, so I can get some contact information!
Thanks for playing!
(Oh, and I fully intend to play along with Color Week. Pictures have been taken, and I will post them soon. I'm just trying to do mountains of laundry, and unpack all of our vacation goodies before our house guests arrive tonight.)
(Oh, and I totally RIPPED through Twilight (2.5 hours)...I need the next one rightnow! Seriously, I would like to go to Borders rightnow and buy the whole set. I might just do it. Edward and Bella, I love you.)
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Exploring Boston
(Don't forget to enter my giveaway drawing here!)
Bug ad I have spent our vacation exploring Boston and our old neighborhood. Not a whole lot of words today, but pictures for you to enjoy:










Bug ad I have spent our vacation exploring Boston and our old neighborhood. Not a whole lot of words today, but pictures for you to enjoy:
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Fat Quarter Swap
(Don't forget to enter my giveaway drawing here!)
I've joined I'm a Ginger Monkey's Fat Quarter Swap, to freshen up my stash a bit. Feel free to play too!
Click here, not the button, blogger is DUMB!

Or click here. Just not the button, blogger is DUMB!
I've joined I'm a Ginger Monkey's Fat Quarter Swap, to freshen up my stash a bit. Feel free to play too!

Or click here. Just not the button, blogger is DUMB!
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Sewing Kit (and Giveaway!)
One of my little sisters sews, but she's always schlepping her stuff between her house and our parents'. So I decided to make her a little sewing kit that she could use to contain everything, as well as a few new supplies. Buttons, thread, and scissors are all handy, but so is a nice handmade pincushion and needlebook, I think.
Since she loves ladybugs, I used a pretty chocolate and aqua print from Tula Pink's Flutterby collection, and on the bag a bit of some Japanese linen tape I had squirreled away. The needlebook is made from 100% wool felt and a pretty glass button.
I really like how this project turned out, so much that I would like to give one away (bag, needlebook, and pincushion!) I'm all out of the ladybug fabric, so you'll have your choice of these fabrics:
Yellow Sprouts
Pink Sprouts, or
Yellow Flowers
Just leave a comment (make sure I can contact you!) with your fabric choice I'll pick a random winner next Tuesday (January 13th!)
Since she loves ladybugs, I used a pretty chocolate and aqua print from Tula Pink's Flutterby collection, and on the bag a bit of some Japanese linen tape I had squirreled away. The needlebook is made from 100% wool felt and a pretty glass button.
I really like how this project turned out, so much that I would like to give one away (bag, needlebook, and pincushion!) I'm all out of the ladybug fabric, so you'll have your choice of these fabrics:
Yellow Sprouts
Pink Sprouts, or
Yellow Flowers
Just leave a comment (make sure I can contact you!) with your fabric choice I'll pick a random winner next Tuesday (January 13th!)
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Boston
We're in Boston. We arrived Saturday, and have been catching up with friends/the city since getting here. It's a bit overwhelming--like we have been on a long vacation.
Anyway, of course we've been out in the city, going to favorite places. We celebrated my birthday with lots of friends!
Before we left, I finished a quick version of Theresa's huswife pattern, so I could bring along my embroidery tools. I really like how it turned out, and can't wait to handsew the next one!


I've finished a couple of embroideries, which I'm not quite sure what I'll do with yet, but it's nice to have something done.


And of course, catching up with the city means "finding treasures" or as my husband might call it: "spending money." (I didn't spend much, honey!) Buttons and ribbon, little bits of Boston to bring home with me.
Anyway, of course we've been out in the city, going to favorite places. We celebrated my birthday with lots of friends!
Before we left, I finished a quick version of Theresa's huswife pattern, so I could bring along my embroidery tools. I really like how it turned out, and can't wait to handsew the next one!
I've finished a couple of embroideries, which I'm not quite sure what I'll do with yet, but it's nice to have something done.
And of course, catching up with the city means "finding treasures" or as my husband might call it: "spending money." (I didn't spend much, honey!) Buttons and ribbon, little bits of Boston to bring home with me.
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