IchnoArt

Be with the friends who are here!

2011-10-17T10:34:00.002-04:00

I saw this photo from ordinary moments by brené brown on my Pinterest feed:

It got me thinking and spurred me to make a "pretty" sign for our next get together. I figured I would share it here :) Feel free to download and print for your next party!

My Memories Giveaway

2011-10-05T12:56:00.001-04:00

I love scrapbooking! I enjoy the idea of putting my memories on a lasting medium for myself to revisit later. It's great as a lasting record of what our lives are like now for our kids or those in later generations. I do paper, digital, and hybrid scrapbooking. Digital is usually the quickest way for me to get photos and memories on a page. I have used different programs for scrapbooking digitally (even powerpoint!).

So when I got the chance to try my memories, I was excited to see what kinds of new things I could do with My Memories Suite V2. It is VERY user friendly software, but still allows for customization. You can use their kits or any that you already have or buy, build pages, templates, and even add video and audio!

Here's a quick little page I made of a sunset in our neighborhood. It's easy to replicate this page and make little tweaks (change photo size, orientation, etc.) to make pages in a book that coordinate!

I'm excited to offer a chance for you to win digital scrapbooking software from My Memories! AND I have discounts for every one of my readers! Just use the following coupon code for a $10 discount off the purchase of the My Memories Suite V2 software and a $10 coupon for the MyMemories.com store - a $20 value! Use the code: STMMMS52162

**Please leave one comment for each entry as follows:**

*1st entry: Go to the my memories website and leave a comment here about a digital kit, template, or quick page that you like. Did you find the free kits section? Yeah, download some of those too! :)

For additional entries:
*Mark my Etsy store, Pretty Or Practical as a favorite and leave comment here with your Etsy name.
Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway. Please add a comment here with your Twitter username.
*Post about this giveaway on your blog or Facebook page (please post your link or user name in comment).

Entries end at midnight Eastern time on October 17th. Winner will be selected by random number generator on October 18th.

This post is sponsored by My Memories.

Rebecca :)

Just sayin'

2011-09-11T20:29:00.000-04:00

Happy Creating

2011-09-10T11:08:00.003-04:00

I have been doing some creating lately... I made a pillow from fabric I had been hoarding that matches my daughter's bedroom.

And I have been working on a brown bag swap from Snickerdoodle Dreams. I'm late on this one and it feels terrible, so it is tough to inspire myself. I've already made up my mind I'm sending extra goodies because of my tardiness.I sent one package and am finishing up a few smaller works to include in a second package. I will post photos after I have sent the second package, so as not to spoil the surprise :) I am fairly certain the first package has arrived, so here is a photo of the supplies she sent:

And the first item I made with those supplies and of course a few knit cloths to match (plus a few goodies thrown in for fun!)

I need to do another post detailing the supplies I sent to her and the AMAZING works that I received. I mean gorgeous!! She doesn't have a blog :( but her work is inspiring!

One of those items is a nifty cell phone charger/holder that I found on Pinterest. I modified it (of course, I can not follow a pattern to save my life!). Here is the other blogger's version. The blog is all in German, and yes I know I can use Google translator, but I just love looking at the photos!

And here is my version (which is super easy and fast, BTW):

I haven't been blogging a lot lately, nor really creating a lot because of extreme exhaustion. I was recently diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. I don't want this blog to become a medical diary or a whine fest, so I have restrained myself from posting about it. Did your mother teach you "if you don't have anything good to say, don't say anything at all"? So suffice to say, that I am under the care of a doctor and working on getting myself back! I hope to be doing more creating (and posting) soon. In the meantime, if I am unable to work on something, I seem to be able to browse Pinterest (follow me on Pinterest here) and see a lot of inspiring things! Email me from my Google profile (above) if you would like a Pinterest invite (it's quicker than requesting to be added).
Happy Creating!!

Rebecca :)

One Pretty Thing and Pinterest

2011-05-24T12:24:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite creative sites is One Pretty Thing. Rachel has so many ideas and tutorials (her subtitle says "DIY Craft Tutorials for a handmade life"). I love that they are all compiled in one location and they are searchable(YES!). If you haven't been there, you should check it out! She featured my door knocker revamp on her last revamp roundup. Hurray!!!

I love to look at photos of ideas and find myself inspired to create after browsing the creations of others. Sometimes I make something similar, but most often, I just find my own creative ideas spring forth! For that reason, I LOVE Pinterest! I discovered Pinterest through a blog I follow called How Does She which has a ton of ideas in many categories. You have to request an invite on Pinterest (kind of like Ravelry). Once you do, you will be amazed at all the wondrous inspiration found there. If you do Pinterest, please follow me!

And here is a completely gratuitous photo of a Challah Cover I made for a friend. I don't like to do posts without photos, I'm such a visual person :) It's a simple applique on a pre-made napkin from Pier 1 with a zig zag stitch around the Hebrew letters (they say "Shabbat Sholom").

P.S. I'm working on a Brown Bag SWAP from Snickerdoodle Dreams! I can't show it yet... but I'm having fun with some bright colored fabrics :)

Door Knocker Revamp Tutorial

2011-04-25T10:15:00.007-04:00

When we moved to our current house, there was a personalized door knocker with the previous owner's name on it. So we measured and went to look for a door knocker to replace it. We looked high and at Lowe's. We looked at Home Depot and at every place online. We simply could not find a door knocker the right size and color (silver or steel or brushed nickel). We weren't picky, they just couldn't be found! So I decided to try a little experiment, at least until we find something that fits!

First I used my best and trusty friend, my Dremel, to make the previous owner's name disappear. I used the bit found above... the light tan colored stone bit. Don't ask me what that bit is called... maybe a grinder of some sort? My husband didn't like the look, but I told him the brushed metal finish is all over the Denver International Airport! It didn't work :( Oh well, now what?

So I decided that maybe it wouldn't look so bad if we added a painted monogram.
Here is how I did it!

I measured the area where I was going to put the monogram and printed out the letter "A" in a bunch of different sizes and fonts. I chose one, and then cut it out with the exacto and mat. I cut all the pieces out and left them in place.

Then I sprayed the back of the paper (with all the pieces) with spray adhesive. Then I stuck the paper on the door knocker. I carefully removed the portion that was going to become the letter (the black part), leaving the white spaces in the letter.

This is my palette and brushes, and yes, I used the expensive Q-Tips! :) Actually, I used them to put down a "primer coat", which was just a test. Then I sprayed the monogram with the spray paint.

Once the paint was dry, I removed the paper. I noticed a few places where the paint bled a bit, so I used my trusty Q-Tips and a little nail polish remover to clean it up! After it was dry, I sprayed the oval part of the door knocker with the clear acrylic top coat. I don't know how it will last, but I'm hoping it will work for a while. It's not perfect, but at least it will give me a chance to find something!

I linked up at Thrifty Home's 83rd Penny Pinching Party!

Giveaway!

2011-04-16T10:31:00.002-04:00

A friend of mine is having a giveaway for an incredible piece of pottery! Check it out at http://www.dragonflyinthekitchen.com/. I'm already imagining what I could do with this *dream*

Blogging, Creating, and Posting

2011-04-16T10:28:00.000-04:00

Well, I have not posted in a LONG while. But here's the deal: I have been creating. I have made so many things. But now that I am not doing OPAM this year, I don't have to blog about it. And I haven't. But I want to. But I haven't. So you see how this goes!

Right now, my daughter and I are making tons of bracelets for this project with Craft Hope! I will share a photo when we get ready to mail our package!

In the meantime, just know I have made a bunch of knitted dishcloths! I made several sets of baby booties for expecting moms. I have mended 3000 pairs of jeans, or it may be 3 pair that feel like 3000! And I started crocheting these by modifying a pattern I found on Ravelry:

They are wonderfully soft face scrubbies made with cotton or cotton/bamboo yarn. My daughter loves them! I have bought some fabric recently and need to get sewing! I am hoping to post more often :)

One Word

2011-01-29T21:21:00.002-05:00

I have posted in the past about Ali Edwards and her "one word" challenge. I first heard about the concept through her. I am now seeing this everywhere!
Instead of a New Year's Resolution, I choose one word to be my focus for the year. And the one word for 2011 is:

I am already working on projects in which I "simplify" in my kitchen. For example, I organized my "container" mess... and it's neat and tidy with bowls and matching lids. Imagine that! I never knew :) I am also doing a lot of decluttering and have 3 large boxes to go to the thrift store. And we have a new routine for groceries :) We have a freezer, so I hope to work on make ahead meals :) So far, I just have extra everyday food stored there.
I am going to "simplify" as much as possible this year. I don't have super lofty goals, but every month I will choose an area and spend a few days (or weeks if necessary) in "simplify" mode.

OPAM December!

2010-12-24T14:43:00.001-05:00

Well, I made it! *whew* I actually finished 12 projects this year. Some of them were small and some more substantial, but I did it! And thanks to Kris for being such a wonderful and gracious OPAM hostess! Here is my final 2010 OPAM project, yes, another set of crochet booties! I have another friend having a baby :) I find myself saying that I'm "crocheting and praying" when I make these booties for people. And now I know that I will be working on another baby quilt in the future! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

November OPAM finish

2010-11-04T20:38:00.001-04:00

Yes, I am posting my November finish now (way too early for me). The reason? We are going to be moving in the middle of the month. I figure if I got a finish in now, I have until late December for another one! That gives me a bit of time to get moved and settled. This one is a baby quilt for a friend. It's summer weight (again because we live in Florida) and I did a sort of wonky ripple effect quilting. I did NOT prewash this fabric (rare for me) and I kind of like the way it rippled even more after washing. Lately, every project seems to be an experiment! :)

Here are a couple of napkins made from leftover scrap fabric from the baby quilt. I like to use cloth napkins everyday, not just to be green, but because if feels elegant and celebratory :) I like these pink gingham ones. I have some yellow gingham napkins I made several years ago, so they kind of go together.

October Finishes for OPAM!

2010-10-12T20:07:00.000-04:00

I actually have a finish BEFORE the end of the month :) Here are photos of my completed baby quilt, roughly in the style of ticker tape. I did random "over quilting" and added yarn, yo yos, a knit flower, and ribbons. I zigzagged them down VERY tightly so baby won't be able to pull them off! I washed and dried it (on hot) and it shrank up to a wonderfully wrinkly texture!

Here are the photos :)

Next project: a camera strap for ME :)

OPAM September

2010-09-29T21:49:00.000-04:00

Here is a sad, and completely gratuitous, photo of our sweet baby Dakota. I also have a semi-sad OPAM this month... because October crept up on me! Yes, it is the complete fault of October! I did NOT finish my baby quilt :( But I did a lot of knitting and am trying a new pattern for spa face cloths (pink in the photo below). So several washcloths and spa face cloths are my finished project for the month. I am considering selling them to a friend of a friend who sell soap and needs an extra goodie for packaging her soaps. I am making several samples to send to her... wish me luck! AND, I am hoping to get back to work on that quilt.

Elmer's and Xacto

2010-09-25T19:47:00.000-04:00

I am part of a site called (www.bzzagent.com) and I am fortunate to get to test different types of products. I have tested food and make up, but imagine how excited I was to receive this kit filled with wonderful crafting goodies from Elmer's- Xacto!

I'm working on a couple of projects using these new tools!

If you are looking for ideas, go to Elmer's site for crafters...

I am filled with hate...

2010-09-21T13:29:00.000-04:00

... for my dishwasher.

While this may seem humorous, I can tell you that this is real serious hatred. It is hatred toward that thing for not doing its job. I have to rinse and wipe my dishes before I use it. I have to rewash things if I find they weren't properly rinsed. I have to let things soak in my sink before I wash them. And I hate doing those things. I really do. I have complete disdain for dishes with food on them sitting in my sink. I feel like it is the beckoning invitation to bugs "come and eat". I hate that!

I hate it so much that I just seethe inside when I see dishes in the sink. But what does my hatred do to the dishwasher? Yep, you see where I am going... My hatred does not do a single solitary thing to that dishwasher. The object of my hatred does what it has always done, nothing. And it has no remorse. And what is my hatred doing to me? Well, probably raising my blood pressure, definitely making me procrastinate about the dishes, and making me generally disagreeable in the vicinity of that thing. Hate is like that. No matter what people are hating, it always hurts the hater more than the hatee. And it is always unproductive.

Before you clock me upside the head, I know as a Christian, I am supposed to hate evil (Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Romans 12:9). Now there may be a case to be made that my dishwasher is evil, but even if that's true; hatred is still tearing me up. Maybe that is how I know that the dishwasher is not evil.

So why am I holding on to the hate? I really don't know. I just know that it is truly hurting me more than it hurts the dishwasher. Is that productive? Ummm, let me think about that... NO! So, here I go, I am letting go of the hate! I think it may help my kitchen be a place of peace again. If it can do that for my kitchen, what can it do for my heart? And what about those other things, those other people, all the little "hates" we carry around with us? Yes, what do you hate that is only hurting you? It could be as silly as a dishwasher.

Hatred stirs up dissension, but love covers over all wrongs. Proverbs 10:12

Quilted Wall Hanging

2010-08-31T11:50:00.000-04:00

I am submitting a quilted wall hanging as part of an art auction that is a fund raiser for North Brevard Charities, which does amazing work here in town! This is the first thing I have ever "submitted", so I feel kind of nervous and wonder if anyone will even be interested in this piece! I like it, and that should be enough, but suddenly there is the need for validation from someone else. I guess I feel pressured because if someone else DOESN'T like it, it won't raise money for the charity! This was a complete experiment with color and raw edge technique, along with some embellishments that I normally wouldn't have used.

Below I have pasted my artist statement, which is new for me too!

“Love is a Many Colored Thing” Love has so many colors, forms, faces and textures. The various elements, colors, textures and shapes represent the forms of love. We love our friends and family. We love pizza or McDonald’s. We love because we desire love. We love because we can’t help ourselves. We love the blessed and prosperous and the disenfranchised and the hurting. We love those who love us, and those who do not. We were created for love. It is our divine purpose in life. The beaded wire represents our lifetime journey of love, the twists and turns of life and the people (beads) that we encounter and love along the way. The tulle represents the Spiritual realm and the love we find within it. This love is for and from our Creator and His Son (cross of Christ charm).

Quilt and OPAM August

2010-08-28T22:18:00.000-04:00

Ok, so I did finish a project for August OPAM, but it wasn't the quilt I was working on... Instead, I made two pillowcases for Craft Hope. The current project there is to make pillowcases for kids and teens with cancer, to give a bit of cheer to their hospital rooms.

As far as the quilt goes, I am not happy with it. I thought that because we live in Florida, I would make a "summer weight" quilt. So I chose a flannel for the back and went to work. I thought that because there was no batting, I could skip the walking foot. HAHAHA! I now have a lot of ripping to do. I don't know if it is my machine or the combination of the flannel with the muslin top, but I have small puckers- YUCK! In fact, I am debating whether to trash it completely and start over instead of all the ripping. :( I am determined to make SOMETHING for my friend with a new baby, so we will just see what happens :)

a quilt, a quilt...

2010-08-19T11:08:00.000-04:00

So I am FINALLY working on a quilt... I have been mulling around a ticker tape baby quilt for a while now and I finally got all the parts out and started assembly. Why, you ask? Because my friend had her baby... it seems I can't finish a quilt until the baby is born... The gorgeous girl was born two days ago, and here is the state of my quilt... almost ready for binding. It should only take a few more days, right? This is my OPAM project, so I have until the end of the month... :)

School and Organization

2010-08-09T15:00:00.001-04:00

Now, I am not known for being organized. In fact, I have been known for my creative (read completely unorganized) side. I spent last year as a homeschool mom trying to have some semblance of order in our household. NO MORE! I am attempting to institute what can only be described as an orderly style of organization (can we say military?) when it comes to chores, school, and assignments. I have the almighty checklist (for Mon-Fri only- we can't take this too far, can we?) prepared and printed out. I have instructed the recruits (ahem, children) of their duties and responsibilities within said checklist. I have stressed that when the checklist is completed, all chaos will once again reign for that day only. I think we all get it!

And, yes, that is a very much younger me, in the Navy :)

I have a plan- yes me!!!! Here is hoping I can stick with it!

Big Idea Festival

2010-08-09T14:44:00.000-04:00

If you aren't involved yet in Big Picture Scrapbooking, now is the perfect time to give it a try! There are always free scrapbooking classes there, but Aug 12 starts a new class with 39 different projects! That is a ton of inspiration! Go to BPS and check it out!

FANTASTIC NEWS

2010-08-02T14:49:00.000-04:00

Some of you may know that I have been having some health struggles lately that involved the possibilities of several of acronyms (RLS, PLMD, and PD). Well, I went to the doctor last week and after talking with her a bit she said I DO NOT have PD! I do have RLS and PLMD, but they are not progressive in nature like PD. I could not be more pleased! I am starting to sleep better and feel more like myself. So I am just rejoicing and happy to be alive!

OPAM July

2010-07-27T15:08:00.000-04:00

I got an idea from another blogger to use individualized coasters for each of my children to put their glass on every day. That way they always know which glass is theirs! So I crocheted a couple of those and I knitted a couple of dishcloths for a friend. All my sewing has been mending jeans- argh! I am hoping to get back to some quilting or other stuff next month. I am looking for fabrics in my stash to do the Craft Hope Project #9- cheerful handmade pillowcases for hospitalized children. If you want to join me, click on the craft hope button on the left hand side and check out the project! :)

Fridge Magnet Tutorial

2010-07-02T10:16:00.001-04:00

I have been leading a book study for the women’s group at church for the last nine weeks (based on the book “So Long Insecurity: You’ve been a bad friend to us” by Beth Moore). We have had a lot of fun and came up with a theme verse to remind us of our value as women (Proverbs 31:10b, 25 She is worth far more than rubies. She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come). I wanted there to be a lasting reminder of our value for the women in the study, so a friend and I decided to make fridge magnets with the verse on them. I had a request for the tutorial and since it was already written, I thought I would post it here. You could use any inspirational quote!

It was fairly inexpensive to make these magnets. You may already have the tools in your scrapbooking stash.

Tools used:

Inspirational Quote

mat and craft knife

scrapbook paper

printer

paper adhesive (I used a spray)

heavy duty magnets

thumb tack or hole punch

beads that come with a wire ring (or buy beads and rings)

charms

a sheet of foam core

jewelry pliers or needle nose pliers

The most costly part was the charms, magnets, and beads, which we bought at Michael's. I spent maybe $25-30 to get enough to make 24, which is really not much. I bought two packages of each of the beads, magnets, and charms, so you could spend less to make fewer.

Design your verse and flourish (think clip art) in a word processor or graphic editing program. You could use a business card template to make this easy! I inserted a clip art image and then flipped it upside down to make a top and bottom flourish. Print your verse and flourish on scrapbook paper (I cut mine to 8 1/2 x 11 to fit the printer). Cut out each verse with mat and craft knife (or paper cutter)
Cut foam core (sometimes found at the Dollar Tree for a dollar, or pretty inexpensively at Wal-Mart) with your mat and craft knife, to the same size as your paper and glue paper to foam core. I used spray adhesive to get a good seal around the outside edge. Definitely spray this outside!
Punch a hole with the thumbtack or hole punch and open the wire ring that came with the bead. String the wire and bead/charm through the hole. Close the wire ring with the pliers.
Glue two large magnets to the back to make it sturdy. Voila, you have a fridge magnet!

I would love to see links in the comments if you make a magnet and post it on your blog!

OPAM June

2010-07-01T10:13:00.002-04:00

Sadly, I finished something yesterday, but didn't get the email off to make it count! :( But I did finish a project I have been working on for a while: a crochet tank for my daughter :)So I went from this wonderfully soft cotton/bamboo yarn:

To this:

Hurray!
I have been knitting a lot of dishcloths and have actually sold a few. But I am getting the quilting bug again. I just don't know what kind of project to start (or finish). I guess I have "quilter's block" (which is like writer's block for quilters, not like a "quilt block" which I haven't made... ). I guess I need to browse some blogs and the internet to get inspired, right? Or maybe attend a quilt show or go to a fabric store. I think THAT is what has been missing. I am trying to use up my stash, but maybe I need a few "inspirational pieces"to help me along.

May OPAM finishes

2010-05-27T12:18:00.001-04:00

Here are photos of my finishes for May! One knitted and one sewn :) I got the pattern for the little card pouch on Ravelry and I just love it! It is felted and I can keep all my cards - library, grocery store, etc. in there. My son loves his football pj shorts too.

April OPAM finishes (note the s at the end... woot!)

2010-04-26T13:22:00.002-04:00

Although I haven't done a lot of blogging lately, I have finished more than one project for the One Project A Month challenge! I have made 1 pair of sleep shorts from some fabric I bought to make 4 pair for the kids :) No photo there :(

I went to visit my mom, dad, and grandmother in Kansas. We had a great time and had a chance to relax. I made mom the pink "lace" for her table and I made several dishcloths and also a few sets of baby booties for friends back home in Florida.

While there we even had time to put a line in at the lake :) We didn't catch any fish, but it was enjoyable :) I'm now starting a crochet tank top for my daughter, so we will see if I can finish that one by the end of May.

I also have noticed that our two pineapple plants have begun to bear fruit!

OPAM 2010 March Finish

2010-03-21T08:52:00.001-04:00

I have been doing a lot of knit and crochet lately. I guess I can sit and do that while sitting next to hubby at night, so I like that. Plus I have an older machine, which I LOVE by the way, so it kind of makes a whirring noise that I'm afraid will wake the kids, overcome hubby's TV show, etc. etc. I have several projects on the needles, but I do have some finishes :) Here are my OPAM finishes for the month of March: Numerous knit dishcloths as gifts, to sell, and for the Batten Disease Auction and this crochet doughnut at the request of my daughter :0 I think it turned out pretty cute :) All the patterns are from Ravelry- my latest obesession! I have also been watching Quilting Arts on TV and I am working on a few concepts for art quilts. I am excited to get back to quilting, I just need to get more time and energy, argh!

Batten Disease

2010-03-17T18:18:00.001-04:00

Yep, I'm still here! I am crafting like a mad woman in between homeschooling and going doctors appointments- I still don't know what is wrong. I am doing all this hard work in order to send gifts to be auctioned off to benefit research for Batten Disease. I have a friend who has two children with Batten Disease and it is a horrifying and always fatal disease. We need to eradicate this one as soon as we can! If you are interested in helping out, leave me comment and I'll get you more information. You can also go to my etsy store and purchase ANYTHING or request that I make something that you may have seen on my blog (knitted discloths, stuffed animal sweaters, knitted bags, Christmas stocking ornament, baby booties etc.). If you send me the word BATTEN somewhere in your purchase, I will make sure the entire purchase price goes to Batten Disease Research.

The Color Pink

2010-02-26T20:11:00.003-05:00

As I was recently taking a look at my blog I realized something has happened to me in the last 10 years. Around 10 years ago, we found out we were having a baby girl ♥ Now I was a serious tomboy, even to the point that my parents gave me a shotgun for my birthday one year. I have only brothers and I jumped my bicycle on mounds of dirt that we dug up and packed hard to make a good ramp. I grew up around animals and showed cattle and trained horses. My first date was to the drag races and I thought that was the best. And I NEVER, NEVER, NEVER, EVER liked PINK. I mean I had a serious spiteful attitude toward pink. Other people might *gasp* wear pink, but I would not. I was entirely too good for pink. Because of that, I had a bit of anxiety about what having a girl would bring. But I figured she would be like me. Ummmm, that was mistake #1.

When my daughter was born she was so beautiful and I dressed her in all the little pink lace dresses that had been given to us by such loving and wonderful friends and family. This may have been mistake #2.

As she grew, I learned that I had made mistake #1 and that she, indeed, LOVED pink. Oh well, I thought, she will grow out of it... She, however, did not. Now she holds her own when it comes to being around animals and she is tough as nails. She can play with boys without any problems. Much of the time, however, she is an incredibly girly girl. Throughout the last 10 years, she has taught me such an incredible amount about femininity, wearing pink, tiaras, and the finer points of being a princess. And you know what, something happened in me. At first I just stopped hating pink, then I started to think of it as neutral. Then I began to think of her when I saw something pink, and I almost like it now, almost. She is now 10 and she said she didn't like a pair of pink shoes today for the first time. (Pink and shoes, what girly girl could resist, right?) And then I took a look at my blog. Ummmm, it is very pink. I did that without even realizing it. I think I have really started to like pink after all. Thanks sweetie, I needed that. I hope you continue to

love ♥ pink!

new family member

2010-02-24T20:36:00.000-05:00

Here is a photo of our sweet darling new family member, Dakota. We got her, of all places, from Freecycle! She has a driving desire to please her humans and is just a sweetheart ♥ She is part Pointer and part Pit Bull (or should I say Staffordshire Terrier?). I just prefer the classic American term, Mutt. I think that mixed breeds are really the best anyway.
I am just so glad that we "found" her and that she has found us. The kids are ecstatic, since they have wanted a dog for such a long time. The kids have already discovered that she loves to chase the red sighting light from one of our Nerf guns and they are using it to teach her to close open cabinet doors. When she learns this trick (if?) I will post video.

OPAM 2010 February finish

2010-02-19T23:30:00.000-05:00

I have not been doing a lot of creating, mostly trying to get well! But I do have a little time in the evenings to do some knitting and crocheting. I finished this little garland and have it hanging on my hutch in my dining area now :)

laying low

2010-02-08T21:03:00.000-05:00

I have been laying low for a while... not feeling too fantastic. I was diagnosed with a sleep disorder. Which explains why I am so tired lately. I am working with a dr to get my energy back and hoping to be creating a lot more SOON! In the meantime, you can see a little project my daughter made. I showed her a simple embroidery stitch and she is drawing and embroidering on everything now :) I showed her how to make a simple pillow. She did the whole thing by hand! I'm such a proud mama...

Kolette Hall "class" on her blog!

2010-01-12T21:11:00.000-05:00

I have taken several classes at Big Picture Scrapbooking with Kolette Hall. She is a phenomenal woman and an amazing and inspirational teacher. She also makes the most beautiful artwork and downloads. The project we will be doing together is called "Needful Things" and it's about prioritizing and managing your life. We just happen to be using scrapbooking supplies to make a gorgeous notebook too! If you are interested in "playing along" with us, go to Kolette Hall's blog.

Here is what Kolette has to say about the project:

"Life Management.
That’s a tricky thing sometimes. We all have unique lives – different families, different work situations, different homes, different adversities, different likes and dislikes, different personalities, different everything. Because of the need to adapt strategies to fit our individual circumstances, learning how to manage our lives can be challenging."

OPAM January 2010 Finish

2010-01-10T12:19:00.002-05:00

Hurray! I have my first finishes! I have been knitting these scarves for my mother and grandmother :) I'm a novice knitter, and these were pretty easy, from a patter I found at here at Ravelry.I'm excited to give them as gifts!

One Project A Month Finishes for 2009

2010-01-08T14:21:00.000-05:00

We are starting a new OPAM for the year 2010! You can read more about how to join and rules etc.here or by clicking on the One Project A Month picture on the left hand side of my blog. I'm excited to get started!

Just for the record:
Jan.: car trash can

Feb.: peasant blouse

Mar.: DD's quillow

Apr.: pink peasant top

May: doll for Craft Hope

Jun.: bandana tops

Jul.: fall star quilt

Aug.: curtains

Sep.: embellished dish towel

Oct.: recycled denim skirt

Nov. and Dec.: oops, I missed these!

Being more GREEN!

2010-01-06T14:07:00.000-05:00

I used to use fabric napkins exclusively and then when I had kids I got away from that somewhat. Well, I am going back to using fabric napkins in an effort to be more "green". AND I just like the pretty fabrics and the feel of them as well. I think that using "art" or pretty things in everyday life makes people happy, or it should; so that is my other reasoning.

I do have to wonder what the impact of using more water and detergent makes on the environment and if the switch is really worth it from that standpoint. Myabe I need to switch to an organic biodegradable detergent at the same time. I also know that the trees used in paper production are replanted when they are harvested so they aren't truly being deforested in every sense. They still are able to clean and purify air and cool the area by their shade. They provide habitat for animals, but have an impact on the fauna in the area when they are cut down and reseeded. I need to do more research. There seem to be so many factors. What do you think?

One Word

2009-12-30T19:39:00.003-05:00

Ali Edwards picks a single word to inspire her throughout the year. I selected a word for last year and found it was very inspirational. I have picked a word for 2010!

We went to the beach several times over the last week, so I wanted to share a couple of photos I took :)

Fire damages Titusville church – Florida Today

2009-12-26T11:53:00.000-05:00

Fire damages Titusville church – Florida Today

This is our church and it is a sad situation. Please pray for us and for those who perpetrated the act.

Santa's Festive Honeypot Swap

2009-12-17T11:33:00.000-05:00

Thanks Julie!

I received the most gorgeous ornament from Julie in the swap through Snickerdoodle Dreams! You can see her stitching is just beautiful! I adore it :) It came all wrapped in a pretty package and with a wonderful card too! Merry Christmas!

Holly Jolly Blog Bingo

2009-12-12T15:26:00.000-05:00

Here is a fun little Bingo game being played over at In Stitches go there and join in on the fun! There are great prizes!

Free Crochet Christmas Stocking Ornament Pattern

2009-11-25T08:18:00.014-05:00

I wrote this pattern down after I wrote my Busy with Yarn post. I have a complete inability to make the same thing over and over, but I am working on more ornaments with slight variations, I thought there might be someone else out there who would like the pattern :)

MATERIALS: Size H hook, single strand 4 ply or 2 or 3 strands baby yarn.
Made in rounds.
Row 1: Ch 12, sc in 2nd st from hook, sc in next 9 sts, 3 sc in end (toe) st, continue along the other side of the chain, sc in next 10 sts, 3 sc in end (heel) st. Do not join.
Row 2: Sc in each sc, 3 sc at end of each row.
Rows 3, 4, 5: Sc in each sc, do not inc.
Rows 6, 7, 8: Sc in each sc, dec 3 sts at toe, sc in sc to heel.
Row 9: Repeat Row 8, at heel, join with sl st, ch 1.
Rows 10-16: Sc in each sc around.
Row 17: Sc in each sc around. Join with sl st.
Row 18: Change colors for “stocking cuff”. Chain 1 and make 2 Sc in first sc and then 1 sc in each sc around. Join with sl st.
Row 19-23: Chain 2 and make 2 Hdc in first sc/hdc and then 1 hdc in each sc/hdc around. Join each round with sl st.
Row 24: Sc in each hdc around.
Join with sl st and break off. Weave ends into work. Turn cuff down over stocking and add a small piece of yarn in a bow to the top back for hanging.

If you find any errors, please let me know so that I can fix them!
Thanks for reading and have a Happy Thanksgiving (in the United States)!

Free Crochet Webkinz/Stuffie Sweater Pattern

2009-11-20T23:59:00.002-05:00

Here is a pattern for the crochet version of my easy stuffie sweater that makes a quick and easy gift :) Thank you for reading :) If you find any problems with the pattern, please let me know so that I can correct it, thanks! I'm working on the stocking ornament pattern too :)

Super Easy Crochet Webkinz/ Stuffie Sweater

Supplies:

Worsted weight yarn (two strands- can be the same or contrasting colors)

Size N and G hook

Instructions:

With size N hook, chain 18 for a lil’ kinz and 22 for a regular size webkinz.

You may want to leave a 6-8 inch tail for stitching at the end.

Row 1: Sc in second chain from hook. Sc in each sc to end.

Rows 2-7 Sc in each sc.

Row 8: (for regular size webkinz, add 4 rows here): Sc in each sc.

Optional: you may add a few rows here to make it longer

Row 9- 13: At beginning of row, skip one sc (or any decrease) and then sc in each sc to last two, skip another sc (or any decrease) before last sc.

Row 14: Sc in each sc.

Row 15: Chain 14 with the size G hook and break off yarn, leaving a tail for finishing.

Finishing:

Sew sides together (first 8 rows).

For a different look, you may easily change the stitch pattern to all sc, ch, sc and have a lacier look, or use any pattern stitch.

Benefit for Malaria

2009-11-18T10:49:00.001-05:00

My 10 year old daughter made a painting to raise money to purchase mosquito nets for families in Africa after learning about the devastating effects of Malaria and how easily it can be prevented. 100% of the proceeds will go to a charity that purchases mosquito nets for families in need.

You can purchase the original or a print at my ETSY shop.

Welcome SITStas!

2009-11-16T02:00:00.043-05:00

Hello all my fellow SITStas! I am so excited to have you all over for a visit!

Around here, I like things to be pretty and practical. I believe there is joy in using beauty and art in everyday life and that everyone has creativity of some sort (yes, that means YOU!) I mostly write about my family and all sorts of crafty projects I have going. I like to quilt, knit, crochet, scrapbook, and I'll try just about any crafty thing at least once! I like to make art and craft for good causes and I'd love to get in touch with others who do too! It seems I am always finding a new project :)

I grew up 11 miles down a dusty road from a tiny country town in Colorado. I became a "jane of all trades, master of none" while in the Navy, college, graduate school, and being a high school teacher in the public school system. I am now blessed to be a stay at home mom and wife to a pastor in central Florida. I am in my first year of homeschooling our two elementary age kids (gratuitous photos follow!) Welcome!

Here are a few links to some of my favorite posts:

More About Me

One of My Projects (a quilt)

A Knitting Pattern I Wrote (super easy knit stuffie/webkinz sweater)

Busy with Yarn

2009-11-15T18:02:00.000-05:00

I have been busy making a few little things for a few friends :) Here are a couple of my latest projects... a baby bib and booties and a pattern I made up for a Christmas tree ornament. Oh, and a really interesting insect we found on the wall of the house...

Happy Veteran's Day!

2009-11-11T13:38:00.000-05:00

Today is Veteran's Day in the U.S. I just wanted to say a HUGE Thanks to all my fellow Veterans today for their service! God bless you for your willingness to give! I was blessed to be a part of the United States Navy and I know many people who give so freely of themselves for the preservation of our freedoms :)

Scrappers Give Thanks!

2009-11-02T12:49:00.000-05:00

My kids and I are doing a great challenge called "Scrappers Give Thanks"! We are so excited to send cards for soldiers to use to write home to their loved ones ♥
If you have scrapbooking supplies (paper, hybrid, or digital) on hand, consider making a few cards for this cause!

Scrappers Give Thanks

OPAM finish for October

2009-10-18T12:14:00.001-04:00

I can hardly believe that I have finished a single project this month, but I have. It is small, but complete! It's a cute little skirt for a friend's daughter :) It's recycled denim (my old jeans) and a piece of the sheet from the girl's little pet shop curtains I made.

OPAM Finish for September

2009-09-23T13:26:00.001-04:00

Here is another very small project, an embellished dish towel. Homeschooling has been keeping me from sewing, much to my frustration! However, the homeschooling is going VERY well. My DS is like a new child and has his happy back :) I really can't ask for more than that!

This is one project that has been on my to do list since July when I found this cute fabric about friendship. The one section says "The journey to a friend's house is never too far to travel". This is just a little gift for a friend :)

A Worthy Cause/ATC Challenge: Edited

2009-09-18T17:54:00.006-04:00

This is a challenge from a very courageous woman!

My name is Michelle Major.
I am a mother, a teacher, an artist.
I am also a survivor of domestic violence.
In August 2008, my husband tried to murder me in an act of domestic violence. Before beating me and strangling me to unconsciousness, he took a butcher knife and slashed ninety-four of my paintings. Through my artwork, I have moved from victim to survivor and I have turned my second chance at life into advocating for victims of domestic violence. I am spreading my story by sharing my butchered artwork through gallery showings and speaking engagements. I have turned this passion for shining a light onto the ugliness of domestic violence into an organization called BAVA: Be A Voice Arts to provide healing through artistic expression.

For Domestic Violence Awareness Month, BAVA is hosting an "Artist Trading Card" challenge. An ATC is a small card, about the size of a playing card on which people write , draw, paint, collage, use photographs and more. ATC's are a worldwide art form where people often have 'groups' , create 'themes', and then create miniature works of art to trade and collect. They are almost like modern day baseball cards to some folks! I have complete details on my website: http://www.beavoicearts.com/i-have-a-voice-atc-challenge (***There is a 5.00 participation fee that will be waived if someone participates through a group home, therapy session, or some other type of organization designed to promote their healing). BAVA wants their voice, not their money!!

The theme is "I HAVE A VOICE!".
My creative vision for these ATC's is this:
I want to create a work of art where the cards hang on my wedding dress as an interactive gallery piece. The reason I am creating this wedding VOICE piece comes as an outcropping of a painting I did called "Til Death". 'Til Death' is a painting of me as a bride, tortured and hopeless, with 'X's" over the mouth to symbolize the secret and shame and inability to speak up during a relationship of abuse. After viewing that portrait, one would think that my wedding dress would be a symbol of the loss of hopes and dreams for a marriage and a future, yet in actuality, the dress will be transformed to symbolize the literal artistic VOICES that have come together as one to "Speak Up Against Domestic Violence". I want to hang all the submitted cards from the dress skirt and viewers can come up, turn the cards over in their hands, move around the piece and experience the "Voices!" I am hoping to generate enough response to fill up the skirt. I think it will be a very powerful piece and full of hope!
Help me fill the dress with YOUR artistic voice. You may save a life.
http://sites.google.com/a/beavoicearts.com/www/i-have-a-voice-atc-challenge

Edited to add:

When I (Rebecca) was 17 I became a victim of violence at the hand of a boyfriend. I won't go into the details, but because of that event, this contest really spoke to my heart. It took me a long time to even realize that I was violated and didn't deserve it, let alone to heal and see myself as valuable again! I found a lot of that healing through the love of God. I want to pass along the hope that you CAN heal.

Here is a photo of my entry. I don't feel like it is any great work on it's own, but it comes from the heart and shows the hope of healing from me. The gem stands for the value of hope. The stitched up heart shows the healing that can happen in a person's life. I hope to give others the hope of healing from abuse.

Zoo Trip

2009-09-03T11:01:00.003-04:00

We went for a little trip to the zoo to kick off the school year (this was a couple of weeks ago and I am just now getting to posting...) We rode the zoo train for the first time and it was fun. It could have been a longer ride for me... I needed to relax! The kids enjoyed the petting zoo tremendously! They even got to pet an armadillo :)

Space Shuttle Discovery

2009-08-29T21:28:00.003-04:00

Just wanted to share a couple of pictures of the night launch of the Space Shuttle Discovery. The night launch is so amazing because it lights up everything for miles and miles and you can see the shuttle for a long time. These are taken from my front yard, so there are some trees in the way for the first few seconds. It launched at 11:59 pm, so that gives you an idea of how lit up the area was! I have lived close to the space center for only two years, so this is just incredible to me!

OPAM project for August

2009-08-26T20:43:00.003-04:00

Well, I finished a project that has been weighing on me... and it was a simple and quick project, I just had to get motivated! It was a simple pair of curtains for a friend's daughter made from sheets that match her bedding. I know it feels almost like cheating for OPAM, but it is a project, really and I needed to get it done- this is what it's about. I was hoping to do bigger and better, but I am learning that just getting some of these small projects done is very rewarding as well:)

Creative Itch

2009-08-24T16:31:00.003-04:00

I have been so busy with getting ready and homeschooling that I haven't been doing any sewing! Yikes! I have a definite creative itch and I can hardly wait to get sewing again. I am hoping that we get into a routine that doesn't require as much of me so that I am able to start sewing again :)

I have been doing a lot of reading for myself as well, at night after the kids go to bed. My son has ADHD and I have been doing a lot of reading on that and related topic (parenting etc.) If anyone has any ideas or tips for coping with the challenges that ADHD presents, do tell!!! I read the best book called "All dogs have ADHD" by Kathy Hoopman. If you have a child or a friend of a child who has ADHD, then you need this book! It helps children to understand themselves and others with ADHD. I got another one by the same author called "All cats have Asperger's" to help my kids understand a little bit more about their cousin and his challenges. It is great too!

I also have a friend who writes fiction and I have been reading her unpublished books. They are really good! I am hoping she will get them published soon!

My DD is taking dance classes (something she was never interested in until now- she's 10). It has been going very well and she is enjoying it a lot. We are looking forward to putting DS in football at the YMCA which will start in another month or so. We are definitely keeping busy :)

New Books!

2009-08-17T21:26:00.002-04:00

When we came home from a meeting tonight, there were boxes at our door! OH YEAH! Some of our textbooks were here :) I was excited (and I know I'm a bit of a nerd), but the thing that took me by surprise was that the kids were excited too! One of them said "It's like having a birthday!" My sentiments exactly! It's the little things, for me... that's how to get out of a funk!

what to say?

2009-08-15T15:44:00.004-04:00

So here I am, knowing that I need to write a new blog post but without a thing to say. I have been feeling kind of down lately. I'm having some health issues and it has zapped my mojo. I need to get it back! How to do that? I am eating healthy and forcing myself to get out of the house. What do YOU do to get out of a funk?

Front Porch Party

2009-08-07T18:52:00.006-04:00

Bre at All Along Life's Path is doing a 'Get to know you' type thing. It's a little 'front porch party'. Everyone is supposed to add ten things about themselves. I decided to give it a try to, let me know in the comments if you do it too, I 'd love to read your 10!

1. I love to sleep in... because I'm a night owl!

2. I grew up in a VERY small country town in Colorado, but since then I have visited and lived in so many places and cities. Yet, I still feel like that small town country girl inside :)

3. I am very focused on my kids during this phase of life, but I do look forward to the time when they grow up...

4. I love rocks and fossils! I am a geologist, after all :)

5. I absolutely detest doing dishes. I will do almost anything to delay having to do the dishes...

6. I am a "shoe person" who loves shoes, but am most comfortable being barefoot- go figure!

7. I'm really not much of a TV or movie watcher. I would rather make something - with fabric, yarn or paper :)

8. My favorite scent is pine trees. It reminds me of camping and fishing trips in Colorado and Wyoming when I was a young girl.

9. If someone had told me earlier where/who I would be today, I would have laughed hysterically. But I am pleased with the journey.

10. Currently, I am addicted to Facebook and catching up with old friends!

Random Challenge

2009-08-06T13:08:00.006-04:00

I went to Sweeter Living today and saw an awesome random challenge to make a band album cover :) I love my band name: Nealyda (a type of moth). I decided to do it, here is my cover:

Now join in for some fun!

These are the rules:
1 - Click http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Random The first random wikipedia article you get is the name of your band.
2 - Go to http://www.quotationspage.com/random.php3 The last phrase of the very last quote of the page is the title of your first album.
3 - Click http://www.flickr.com/explore/interesting/7days The third picture, no matter what it is, will be your album cover art.
4 - Use photoshop (elements has a free trial) or similar to put it all together. I used Publisher and saved it as a jpeg.
5- Tag some friends to join in

I tag anyone who reads this and would like to try!

busy busy busy bees

2009-08-05T16:49:00.003-04:00

That's us... busy bees... we are trying to get everything in place to start school! We are taking some classes through a homeschool coop and then we are doing some at home. I have finally chosen all of the curricula and am excited to get it all and look through it. It should be a good year.

Here are a couple of pics of the kids fishing with Grandma and Grandpa on our trip :)

OPAM project for July

2009-07-27T15:56:00.003-04:00

Wow, we are back and hit the ground running! We are definitely going to homeschool this year, so i am busy getting ready :) I am looking forward to it, but a little nervous too!

I finished a project for OPAM, just not the one I thought I would... here is a photo of a "brown bag" quilt that was put together by my quilt group when I lived near Denver ( ummm... 11 years ago...) but now it is DONE! It turned out seriously pretty and is all hand quilted- hence the time it took for me to complete it! I put in the fall colored star block and I love that someone added the turquoise to the mix :) I am so pleased that it is finished...

We're on Vacation!

2009-07-14T14:23:00.003-04:00

Just a note to say that we are on vacation until July 21st. We'll be on my parent's place in Kansas, soaking in the country air! I'm certain there will be tree climbing and wild animal sighting and more. I'm excited to be working on a quilt with my Mom! It's something I started for her ahem, years... ago... But we are finally going to get it finished, Yeah! Thanks to the One Project a Month challenge (see sidebar). I'll have to post a few photos when we get back.

Happy Independence Day!

2009-07-04T12:35:00.004-04:00

Happy Independence Day! I hope everyone has a wonderful and safe holiday!

and on another note... Hurray! I won a giveaway at Roerdink Ramblings. Thanks Lisa!

ride the rides

2009-06-28T18:06:00.003-04:00

Here is a little peek at the kids on a ride at Sea World... it was a rainy day and we had short lines for the rides all afternoon!

Progress

2009-06-24T11:28:00.006-04:00

I am making progress on my throw... it is getting bigger and bigger. Now I must decide how big to make it... I am not sure whether to take a measurement or to just go until I have knitted two skeins and then start to decrease... that way I know I have enough yarn.

Mars Chocolate Relief Act!

2009-06-19T10:43:00.001-04:00

Have you been here on a friday? you get free chocolate!

Now THIS is cool!

2009-06-17T20:41:00.003-04:00

I just realized that I hit my 100th post with no fanfare! I can't believe I have done that many posts, I still feel like a blog newbie!

Anyway, THIS is the coolest thing I have seen in a while, a library catalog card generator! You can even add little "scribbles" to the cards! I can see so many uses for this in scrapbooking...

Happy Birthday Darling Daughter!

2009-06-17T10:57:00.002-04:00

Happy 10th Birthday to my DD! I can hardly believe it has been ten years! We are going out to lunch wherever she wants and Dad has another day off tomorrow so we can go somewhere. It has been exciting to see her tastes for birthday lunches change. last year for the first time, we didn't go to Mc Donald's :)

fortune cookie life

2009-06-15T14:40:00.004-04:00

Today is my birthday. It isn't a big deal, but I feel a little old, I just noticed a new "fine line" on my forehead :( My wonderful husband took me out to lunch for Chinese food and I got this fortune cookie: As soon as you feel too old to do a thing, do it. I don't usually say "I'm too old for that" and I'm pretty adventurous. This got me thinking, what do I think I am too old for and when should I do it! I don't usually find inspiration in fortune cookies, but this one has a point. If George Bush Sr. can skydive in his 80's, then I can do whatever I want too.

I have never been very celebratory when it comes to my birthday... and my husband ALWAYS (lovingly) asks "What do you want to do for your birthday?" I am racking my brain trying to come up with something... something other than going to the craft store and getting my eyebrows waxed (which I desperately need to do). Do I have a boring life, or am I too practical or what? I have until tomorrow, my husband's day off, to find something to "do" for my birthday... what to do... what do you "do" on your birthday?

2009-06-11T11:38:00.004-04:00

I just got my hometown swap package!The swap was hosted by Shannon from Welcome To The Nuthouse. She did a fantastic job! I opened the door to find a gift from Frugal Carol from Pennsylvania! It was a wonderful package full of her hometown goodies! She shared some of her local favorites and there was even some chocolate and a book and something for the kids (crayons are made there). And she sent a little note to explain why everything was in there. Thanks Carol! I love it :)

2009-06-11T10:07:00.004-04:00

We just got back from a wonderful getaway in Cocoa Beach. We had a great time, but most of all we just relaxed and did nothing but sit on the beach or poolside :) The kids had a great time on their boogie boards:

2009-06-08T17:31:00.001-04:00

We are unplugging for a few days, so I won't be posting until Wednesday. We'll be out on the beach having fun and I'll post photos when I return!

Half Full Friday

2009-06-06T08:34:00.002-04:00

I got this idea from Life as I see it and I thought it would be a great thing to try! Here's my list:

I'm thankful for my fantastic husband who always sees things as being half full. He's an inspiration to me.

I'm thankful for two wonderful and healthy kids who put so much meaning into my life.

I'm thankful for the connections with people I have made through this blog.

I'm thankful for my creative nature and that I have time to use it daily. It makes me happy!

I'm thankful for connecting with old friends through facebook.

Bandana Tops

2009-06-01T20:57:00.004-04:00

I have been working on a few of these for my DD and for several friends' girls too. They are SOOOO easy to make :) just a couple of straight seams and put the ribbon into the casing and VOILA! you are done :)

my first larger project

2009-06-01T08:59:00.005-04:00

So I have started my first large knitting project: a throw. I love the yarn (lion brand cotton ease) and am having fun. Purling is getting easier :) and I am liking it more! I used a dishcloth pattern with a few modifications to make it in stockinette stitch instead of garter stitch. Because of that, I had to modify the border as well :) I am also making it huge to be a throw. There is a similar blanket here that uses a knit front and back increase, where I used a yarn over increase. I like the way it is coming along and love the feel of the finished product :)

This is the day!

2009-05-28T11:56:00.004-04:00

It's the last day of school and it marks the beginning of an exciting adventure. What to do this summer... I had my kids write a list and it goes like this: play the wii, jump on the trampoline, go swimming, play the wii, jump on the trampoline, go swimming. I am excited, but I have a sneaky suspicion that they will get bored with this and be looking for some more activities! I have to come up with a plan, free movies and bowling are on my list, as well as a little letterboxing and a few trips to the library. What's on YOUR list?

CHA convention

2009-05-27T07:25:00.000-04:00

CHA is coming to Orlando! Hurray, I get to go!

CHA-Summer 2009 Convention & Trade Show
July 27th, 2009 (Education Only)
July 28th-30th, 2009 (Trade Show)
July 31st-Aug. 1st, 2009 (Consumer Show)
Orange County Convention Center
Orlando, FL

Please note that online registration is now open for CHA Summer 09!

Musings and a Trampoline

2009-05-26T18:44:00.003-04:00

Lately I feel like I spend more time reading other people's blogs than I do writing in my own. I have a goal to spend more time writing here. And to catch up on my email! I end up looking at craft blogs and do less crafting LOL It's such a strange thing...

Yesterday we had a get together with a lot of people over for grilled hamburgers and hot dogs. When my DH went to get the meat, he came home with a trampoline! Several of he men put it together and all the kids jumped until it got dark. My kids are thrilled to have one! Today we spent time on it again :)

I also made a bandana top for my DD from this tutorial (like a pillowcase dress, but easier!) I'll have to take photos to post here!

Giveaway Winners

2009-05-21T13:20:00.003-04:00

the winners of the three coupons for Mahatma Rice are commenter numbers 7, 15, and 17! That is: Delightfully Wed's Weblog, Michelle, and Faye!

I will contact the winners by email :)

Congratulations!

Words-only Wednesday!

2009-05-20T11:07:00.002-04:00

It has been very rainy here and I have been feeling like I can't post without some new photos. Why is that? I think I'd rather post photos than do a lot of writing! :) It's easier for me somehow.

Everything is going well and I have numerous projects going on (nothing really new there).

I am sort of looking forward to school being out, but sort of not. I enjoy the time to myself somewhat, but I also feel like other people get my kids more than I get them! I am in desperate need of coming up with a schedule for the summer vacation of things that we can do that are free or cheap, any ideas???

Giveaway

2009-05-15T14:03:00.004-04:00

I have 3 coupons for 2 -2lb bags of Mahatma Jasmine and Basmati Rice to give away. Who couldn't use a little help with some food in this economy? AND this is GOOD rice! There are also recipes on the coupon and you can visit mahatmarice.com for more recipes. Just leave a comment and I'll randomly choose 3 people to win the coupons on May 21st. To be eligible, please leave a comment before 5pm EST on the 21st. If you are a follower, you may state so in a seperate comment for another entry. Thanks!

Bunny Project

2009-05-15T09:53:00.004-04:00

I have completed another project this month- with help from my DD. As far as the bunny goes, she picked out the pattern, did the tracing and cutting and stuffing. We modified it a bit and didn't paint it. She even drew the face! I did the machine sewing. It turned out very cute :) We were both pleased.

OPAM completed project for May

2009-05-13T18:57:00.005-04:00

Here is a photo of my completed project for the month. It was my first attempt at a doll and was a little more difficult than I had imagined! In the end, I like his expression and his hair, although I modified the pattern when it came to his hair and his "dress" became a tshirt as well. All in all, I like him. He will be going to an orphanage through a project from Craft Hope.

Tilt Shift Photos

2009-05-08T21:42:00.003-04:00

you can make your photos look like miniature models, just go to the following website:
http://tiltshiftmaker.com/

you don't even need to give your information, it's all free! Cool huh?

Giveaway

2009-05-06T07:02:00.001-04:00

Here's a link to a great giveaway from Liz! She is giving away 2 $50 gift certificates to spa finder!Go over and say hi and enter!

SWAP

2009-04-30T08:13:00.002-04:00

I signed up to do this neat swap that blogger Shannon is hosting. Click the photo to check it out!

2009-04-29T12:45:00.004-04:00

Here is a photo of PART of my mother's day gift for my mother... I don't think she's a reader... I got the wonderful knit lace trim pattern on the Lion Brand yarn site. They have a lot of great free patterns, you have to sign up though... The dishcloth is super easy and knit on the diagonal and I don't remember where I got the pattern, maybe it was called Grandma's Dishcloth?

Too Many Hobbies?

2009-04-29T08:41:00.004-04:00

I am wondering how in the world I am going to get everything done today, plus I want to play with my new photoshop elements program and try some digital scrapping and of course do a little work with it too (on the church website). I have already used up quite a bit of precious time working in elements... LOL I have other things to do... Do you ever get like that? I get that way with sewing too (can you imagine?) I think I have too many hobbies! Anyway, since this blog is about crafting, and not about working or whining, here is a photo of something I have made :) It's a cap for a teen with cancer for Spirit Jump!

Completed Project

2009-04-23T10:08:00.003-04:00

Here is a peasant top I made. I ended up buying a new pattern for $1.99 at WalMart. I just happened to see it and liked the sleeves better than the last one. I lengthened it a bit, since I am kind of tall. I'm happy with how this one turned out :) I added a closeup of the fabric just because I think it's so pretty!

Some Football Photos

2009-04-22T17:42:00.006-04:00

Here are a couple of photos from NFL Flag Football! Our team is the Cowboys and boy DS and DD are playing :)

Easter Egg Hunt

2009-04-14T12:02:00.001-04:00

Spirit Jump

2009-03-29T20:30:00.000-04:00

If you want to help lift the spirits of someone with cancer, consider being a part of Spirit Jump. Just click the link and check it out! You can help out once or twice or as many times as you can. You can make something or just send a card to brighten someone's day. I love the concept and have signed up to be a part. Will you join me?

Only a little creating going on around here!

2009-03-28T11:45:00.000-04:00

We have a really busy weekend ahead of us. We have meetings and dinners scheduled pretty much all weekend. I haven't created much of anything lately... my sewing machine is picked up for our dinner party on Sunday. I'm excited for the get together, but I missed my machine these last 2 weeks that we have had people over. I needed the table for people to eat, instead of sewing! Here is a little welcome banner I made from scrapbook papers and a little hanger I bought at dollar tree. I just wanted something cheerful to welcome friends!

What I've Been Doing Lately!

2009-03-21T12:07:00.000-04:00

I haven't been creating much in the way of sewing, mostly mending the kids' pants! That still keeps the machine going! I have done a few scrapbook pages and I have a bunch of photos from Sea World that I think I'll use for a mini album. I'm looking for ideas right now and have ordered the photos from Snapfish. I got them all free thanks to my coke rewards.

We have more company this weekend and next weekend, so we are going to stay pretty busy!
Here are a couple of more photos that we took last week:

The Quilt, A Poem

2009-03-18T17:54:00.001-04:00

the worn cottony
bluish softness
calls me back
to that time
surrounded by my
light yellow walls
and the love
given by the
small soft-eyed
grandmother
who sewed the
cottony blush softness
just for me

I'm not in hiding!

2009-03-17T12:38:00.000-04:00

We have friends in town, so I haven't posted in a few days, I'll get back in the swing soon! I'm just enjoying time with good people :) Here's a taste of what we have been doing!

Winner!

2009-03-12T11:38:00.000-04:00

I went to random.org and the winner of the handknit discloths is entry number 40! That's:

ScrappinAway said...: My aunt gave me one of these and they are the best for clean dishes and I would love to have another so yes please sign me up!

Congratulations!

Organizing Creative "Stuff"

2009-03-11T10:50:00.000-04:00

I am NOT good at organizing, especially my creative area! It always looks like a train wreck. So... I have been searching craigslist and found an armoir for my craft supplies. I am hoping to get my creative "stuff" organized. I have my scrapbooking stuff pretty organized, papers, brads, etc. all in drawers and ribbon in jars, etc.

The stuff I can't organize, my quilting notions and my current projects, they just kind of become piles. It's like mountains of memorabilia and fabrics! Any ideas anyone? How do you organize your creative "stuff" and current projects?

Handknit Dishcloth Giveaway for Spring Fling!

2009-03-08T15:00:00.000-04:00

I am giving away a set of two 100% cotton dishcloths, hand knit by me! They are both springy yellow ones. It's part of the giveaway celebration for Spring Fling at SITS (welcome to my humble abode fellow SITStas!).

To Enter:
Leave a comment on this post by the end of the day, March 11th. If you are a follower of my blog, please leave a second, separate comment stating that you follow me and you'll get an extra entry in the giveaway. This giveaway is open to everyone and I will ship internationally :)

Happy Spring!

DD and I Make a Quillow- OPAM

2009-03-07T20:43:00.000-05:00

So I changed my mind... I have always wanted to make a quillow and when my DD saw one I bought as a pattern, she wanted to make one too! I just happened to have a quilt top that was the perfect size and I had started it for her when she was a toddler (she's 9, yikes! that's an old project!). So we spent a few hours making a quillow for her :) She loves it!

I guess this is my finished project for the month- Yeah! I will try to finish another one, but it's shaping up to be a busy month.

Next Project for OPAM (One Project A Month)

2009-03-06T13:27:00.000-05:00

I was looking for a quilt top I made for my mother (a few years ago) and found these blocks. I think I'm going to make a little lap throw size quilt out of them. They were leftover scrap blocks and I just have to make one block to finish up the center panel. I'm thinking I'll add a border or two of scraps from my stash (hopefully I have some large sized fabrics as I tend to buy fat quarters a lot!) I WILL find that top for my Mom, maybe for next month...

I also found these 4" blocks, and only 2 of them, maybe I will make something from them as well :)