Modern 50's Housewife

It was a good run

2009-12-10T23:48:00.002-07:00

So you may have noticed the lack of posting lately. Much of it is due to the fact that I am no longer a housewife. I am considering another blog at this point but am not sure about the direction I want to take it.
Thank you all for reading my little slice of cyberspace. I hope you were entertained.

Crazy Week

2009-09-13T19:40:00.002-06:00

My week has been bad. Here are some pictures of Bubba to make up for it.

Littles must get bigger

2009-09-06T23:46:00.001-06:00

Bubba,
You are getting so big too quickly. For the first time in my life I want to push the pause button and savor this time for just a bit longer. Your smiles, hugs and kisses are like rays of beautiful sunlight in my life. Your tears break my heart (almost) every time. I know that you must grow and become a big kid someday. I just hope that you don't do it in a blink of an eye.
Tomorrow I will delight in each moment we get to spend together. I will not miss an opportunity to allow your growth and understanding.
I love you so much,
Mama

Why do I forget my camera on important days?

2009-08-30T21:50:00.003-06:00

Our household has been sick most of the week. This means that on top of feeling nasty from the bug we have all had I have not had the energy to do much of anything.
Today was a different story. I had to kick it in high gear to make a little princess a skirt for her 5th birthday. From 8:30 to noon I worked on a 4 tier skirt from blueprints.
Bubba and I went to the special event as soon as the skirt was completed. V, my sister S and I enjoyed an at home spa day while the boys played and did boy things. When they caught sight of the three of us with green masked faced they laughed like crazy. After the spa we decorated cupcakes like last year. Bubba got way into decorating his. He helped me hold the icing bags and he placed all the sprinkles just where he wanted them. My heart smiled when I saw him being so independent.

Checking in with the 2009 goals.

2009-08-25T07:55:00.003-06:00

My 2009 Goals
1. Lose 30 more lbs - fail
2. Hand make as many birthday presents as possible - mostly fail
3. Photograph more (daily) - fail
4. Walk with Bubba 3x per week - fail
5. Sew one thing (at least) for myself each month - fail
6. Make cookies with Bubba 1x per month - fail
7. Get a part time job that I like - I have a part time job. I liked it when I started but now I really miss the at home life.
8. Make a realistic budget - fail
9. Blog more consistantly about what we are doing - fail.
10. Organize my desk and business stuff and maintain it - organize accomplished, maintaining - fail.
11. Stay on top of business filing once a week - fail
12. Toilet train Bubba - fail
13. Decorate our bedroom - fail
14. Try 1 new recipe weekly - fail
15. Trip to library bi-weekly - fail
16. Field trip to museums, zoo or park monthly - for me fail, Papa (grandpa has taken Bubba almost weekly)

Overall I am seeing a lot of fails. Well I think goals are a process that evolves. Since I am now employed I feel that I get to revise the goals based on new circumstances. (I should have done this a couple of months ago.)

My 2009 Goals
1. Lose 20 lbs by end of year (196)
next action: meal plan for the week limiting protein to chicken and fish
2. Photograph weekly (instead of daily)
next action: take the camera with us to the park this afternoon
3. Walk with Bubba once a week (instead of 3x)
next action: go for a walk tonight
4. Sew one thing each month (not just for myself.)
next action: continue working on Crystal's cathedral window quilt.
5. Make a realistic budget
next action: write down all expenses for the month with due dates
6. Blog once a week (Sundays are good.)
next action: look at images taken this week and compose a post on Sunday
7. Get filing taken care of. There after file paperwork as it comes in.
next action: one collection bucket at a time get the papers in the files.
8. Toileting with Bubba
next action: this coming weekend we are going to be home bound and this is the priority
9. Finish king size quilt for our bedroom
next action: layout squares and sew them together.
10. Spend more quality time with my Hubs & Bubs.
next action: today we will play a game after dinner

Our weekend in images

2009-08-11T23:37:00.003-06:00

Hello deer. Thanks for posing.

My darling men. The boy is so much like his daddy already.

Waterfall at the lake.

C'mon daddy lets go look.
With his favorite gal.

I can't tell who's leading who.

After I edit this I think I may print and frame it.

I had a thing for water this weekend. This was too beautiful to pass though.

Pretty Windows... A quilt

2009-08-01T11:02:00.004-06:00

A while back I decided to take on a lap quilt as a project for my cousin Crystal's housewarming gift. When I started I had an idea about what I wanted it to look like but wasn't in love with the pattern. I looked high and low on the internet and finally found the Cathedral Window Quilt tutorial from Hyena In Petticoats. I knew when I looked through the flickr group that this was the pattern I was looking for. It has tradition but can also look very modern.
This window pane is my favorite pink one.

This is my favorite B&W one.

I started with this size just in case this project was a dud for me. It isn't I love the way this quilt looks. I am even thinking of making a few small ones like this as wall hangings to give for christmas. We'll see what The List looks like when I get this quilt done.

Photos... short on time version

2009-07-03T10:27:00.002-06:00

Dada's mini-me.

You know mom I really should get to do what I want....

First weekend on 4 wheelers. Day 1 learned to drive himself with Cousin Dean.

Crystal is a favorite person. Even with that funny hat on her head.

Day 2. Five hour ride is exhausting. He fell asleep while I was trying to catch up to the group. He loved the ride.
still sleeping for about another 20 minutes. His first word upon waking was "WATCH!"

Caught some sun in the mountains.

Hope you enjoyed the pictures.

Dear Blog,

2009-06-06T09:05:00.003-06:00

I am sorry I have neglected you of late. I promise I have been thinking of you. I have even been composing posts in my head while driving in traffic. Too bad they are locked in the vault that is my memory and I seem to have misplaced the key. I have notes too but they are not helping in finding the key. OOPS.
I have been doing a lot lately. There has been much work going on. That has been a fun challenge. I have been driving all over town and back again. (Ah, the joys of free babysitting.) I have also been going crazy over the house being a total mess. Yeah, I know it has always been a mess but now I think I need to call in FEMA to get some help. Ok, so maybe FEMA is extreme but a maid could do it right?
So today while Bubba is over at Granny's house I will be tackling the most pressing of my tasks instead of composing a fabulous post with pictures and all. Sorry but the laundry is threatening to take over my bedroom and the sewing that I have not accomplished is starting to yell at me. You know the squeaky wheel gets the grease.
So I am off to Pay the bills, make the beds, setup the new sewing table, make a diaper bag, LAUNDRY, file paperwork in the cabinet, and about 10 other sewing projects. Wish me luck.
Much love.
L

A long time gone

2009-05-22T20:13:00.002-06:00

Wow. I know is been a while since my last post but I didn't realize that it has been nearly a month. Do you want to know what has been keeping me away from my blog? I know you do. Right?

I GOT A JOB!

I am now back in the sign business. I love the job. My boss is really wonderful and so are all of my co-workers. I miss my baby like crazy but he is getting to spend some great time with Granny, Grandpa & other family too. Here is the website. Go check it out.

There has been some sewing go on here too. I made a summer blouse last Sunday. It was the Made By Rae Spring Ruffle Top. I don't have a picture yet but if the weather holds I plan to wear it tomorrow to my sister's BBQ.

I hope to post pictures to share everything else too.

A list anyone?

2009-04-26T20:24:00.003-06:00

So I feel like I need to organize my projects outside of my head. I have so many and everyday I feel myself adding to the list. Care to peek at my list?

For the Etsy store
Green Paisley Amy bag
Purple & Green un-named bag
Mini Bag
Yellow & Green wallet

For Family
Crystal's Black, White & Hot Pink Quilt in the Mod Sampler Quilt Along by Oh Fransson!
Cabin & Pine tote bag for Aunt Phyllis
Fish Softies for Bubba & TaTa

For Me
B&W Jumper
Made by Rae's Spring Ruffle Top for Spring Top Week
Curiositys Linen Skirt for Build Your Wardrobe
B&W Quilt Top

Wow. Seeing it all written down is a little overwhelming. Best way to fight that feeling is to set out next steps for each thing so here goes.
1. Made by Rae's Spring Ruffle Top for Spring Top Week ~ Press & cut mateials ~ Due Tuesday, April 28 for group
2. Green Paisley Amy bag ~ take apart muslin and cut out of template material ~ Due Wednesday, April 29
3. B&W Quilt Top ~ iron completed squares ~ Due 4/30
4. Purple & Green un-named bag ~ finalize design on paper ~ Due 5/1
5. Mini Bag ~ finalize design on paper ~ Due 5/2
6. Yellow & Green wallet ~ sew, turn & press ~ Due 5/2
7. Cabin & Pine tote bag for Aunt Phyllis ~ cut material ~ Due 5/4
8. Crystal's Black, White & Hot Pink Quilt in the Mod Sampler Quilt Along by Oh Fransson! ~ starch & cut material ~ Step due 5/6, Finished Quilt Due 5/21
9. B&W Jumper ~ re-cut bodice & lining ~ Due 5/8
10. Curiositys Linen Skirt for Build Your Wardrobe ~ cut material ~ Due 5/12
11. Fish Softies for Bubba & TaTa ~ affix interfacing to silky fabrics ~ Due 5/14

2nd Birthday Extravaganza

2009-04-26T07:55:00.003-06:00

Yesterday was amazing. We had a great 2nd Birthday for Bubba. He really enjoyed himself at the aquarium. The cousins, lots of adult family and a few friends came with us.

Many things to see at the Downtown Aquarium in Denver.

The beautiful salmon.

A coral tank with seahorses. I would love to have a coral tank like this at home. These seahorses were very small.

Then this guy was enormous!

There were beautiful colors everywhere. I love the brightness of the sea stars.

The bubbles allowed the kiddos to really get into the experience.

The cousins too.

Of course we had to FIND NEMO. He was there and so was Dory and many of the other friends.

Quite possibly my favorite photo from the day was taken by Hubs. Every time I see a lionfish I think of Deuce Bigelow. I know, I'm strange.

Finally is my cake that I fretted over all week. (No joke!) I love the way it turned out even though I had something else in my head. (That looked like the shelf coral not poo in real life.)

Not bad for a beginner.

I need a bigger plate

2009-04-17T21:44:00.002-06:00

My plate is full. Really full. So what am I doing with all of my online time? Why I am looking for skirts to deconstruct and make my own. Yea, I'm crazy. Why am I doing this you ask. Because I want to join Curiositys Build Your Wardrobe project. See the pretty button?
Want to know what I have been looking at for the last several hours trying to determine if I can in fact make it myself. This, this and this. Cool huh?

What I plan to do in the aftermath of birthday #2

2009-04-17T15:37:00.002-06:00



Go over to SimpleMom to get your button if you are going to do this too.

A month as whirlwind

2009-04-12T21:08:00.003-06:00

Nearly a month since my last posting requires some kind of explanation doesn't it?

Most recently was a surprise trip to Arizona to meet up with the Seesters. The youngest, Katie, turned 21 and her daughter is now 1. There was also a new sister to add to the mix. Stacie Ann was put up for adoption as a baby. She is now 25 and a part of our world. It was beyond words to meet her face to face. The whole weekend was amazing and more than I ever expected it to be.

The craziest thing I've ever done was that weekend too. Do you like my tattoo?

I made a couple of handbags using the Made by Rae Buttercup Bag pattern. I am using the magenta & teal bag. The red & black one was a gift for Katie.

Bubba got a his first haircut. He was a champ and didn't make a peep. After all was done he got a goldfish as a reward. The fish didn't last for more than a week. She let us know she was a girl because 3 days after we got her she laid eggs. That was interesting.

Are you bored yet? I commend you if you continued to read this post. I have much more to catch up on but my bed is calling my name. Have a great night.

And so little time

2009-03-15T22:53:00.002-06:00

Lately it feels like the old saying "so many things to do and so little time to do them". The busyness forecast is not predicting a slow down in activities for the next month or so. For now I leave you with some eye candy from the quilt top I am making for our king bed.

and

I can't wait to share all of the blocks laid out in the pattern before I sew the sashing.

Think Positive

2009-03-11T11:20:00.003-06:00

Yesterday in my women's group we read and discussed affirmation cards much like these. Here are the front of the cards we read and my thoughts about them. I think I may pick up a set at B&N later today.

* There is no blame.
It is really hard to go out into the world without blaming myself or others for many situations. I am striving to work on this as I go about my week.

* Everything I touch is a success.
I LOVE this card. It is so positive. This is also a bit like trying to find the silver lining in a cloud. Even a "failure" can produce a success in the learning process.

* All my relationships are harmonious.
Wow. I can say that most of my relationships are in harmony. It always seems that something may be off with one person or another but they each come back to harmony with the right time and the right words.

* My home is a peaceful haven.
I strive for this all day long. It seems that lately I only feel this when all is quite either during nap times or after everyone has gone to sleep. This week my challenge is going to be to find the peace in every moment throughout the day.

* There is plenty for everyone including me.
In the current economy it is hard to believe that this may be true for everyone. But that reminds me that I have much more than I really NEED. If all I had was food, shelter, clothing and LOVE I would have all I need. Everything else is icing.

* I am totally adequate for all situations.
There is challenge in those words. While I do believe that I tend to mostly choose situations where I am adequate I also try to push myself outside of my comfort zone and see if I am adequate elsewhere. Sometimes I find myself lacking knowledge or skills for a particular task. That does not mean that I am inadequate for the situation.

* I am deeply fulfilled by all that I do.
This is not true every moment of everyday. I think that living with intention and purpose makes this possible more often. Why am I doing something that is not fulfilling? If it is something I must do (dishes, laundry or scrubbing the tub) why not be fulfilled by the action and result. If it is something I want to do it should fulfill me.

* I am at peace with my age.
Until recently this was untrue for me. I was always in Fast Forward Mode. I wanted to get to the end to see how it all turned out. Now I beg the day to slow down so I may be in the moment. I now see life for the journey rather than the milestones and the destination. I am over the quarter century mark that was so hard for me. I am looking down the barrel of "old" with the passing of 2 more birthdays. I am okay with that. Bring it on Universe.

* I express my creativity.
I try to physically express my creativity as often as possible. I am constantly thinking of what I would love to be doing (given that the required tasks were taken care of) with the fabric, yarn, paint, paper, etc. I also think that creativity can be expressed in words, thoughts and emotions. This is something I am taking on as well this week.

What are your thoughts? Do you feel any of these affirmations speak to you? I would love to know what you think about them.

Everyday Treasures

2009-03-11T10:07:00.002-06:00

I read SouleMama's Everyday Treasures post this morning and am inspired to write about my own treasures.

*My beautiful child. You make Mama smile, laugh, cry and crazy. Your laughter is my homing beacon.

*My strong husband. Your willingness to go out into the world to provide for us, your family, is something I will always cherish. You are a puzzle and I hope to spend the rest of my days figuring you out.

Do you have an everyday treasure to share with me?

Group Think

2009-03-03T15:40:00.003-07:00

I attend a Womens Group on Tuesday mornings. It has been nice to get another perspective from the group members. Today the group really flowed nicely. The leader started off with a selection from Illuminata that discussed the idea that anger stems from fear. My issue I brought to group related to anger. The ladies there gave me some great advice to focus on myself and refuse to allow someone else's anger to ruin my day. We also discussed issues that the other members were dealing with this week including money, loss of a relationship, a young mommy to be dealing with a baby-daddy and co-dependence. The exchange of information and ideas was inspiring.

It seems that my life has themes. One recent theme has been money. I am reading a lot of great blogs on personal finance, frugality and budgeting. On the recommendation of some of these blogs I purchased The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey on audiobook. Much to my joy this book has really changed the way I am dealing with money. I won't speak with any authority on the subject because I am broke and only working on baby step 2 but I will recommend this book to anyone who will listen. It was a suggestion I made to the group member dealing with money issues today. It is something I will be living along the way and re-reading as necessary. I have hope. Huge hope.

Brainstorming

2009-02-27T22:17:00.002-07:00

I need to start brainstorming ways for Hubs and I to celebrate 5 years married in May. I will have a limited budget so something like a vacation would be more of a pipe dream than reality.
I also need to brainstorm about Bubba's 2nd birthday. I think we will be spending that weekend at my family's property in the mountains. We will also want to have a get together with his friends during the week. I am thinking either Children's Museum or the Zoo or something along those lines.

I'll let you know what I come up with.

It's been a while

2009-02-26T22:23:00.002-07:00

I haven't been for a couple of reasons. First, I have been reading many other blogs and that uses up almost all of my computer time. Second, we have been busy. This week included a trip to the Denver Zoo, Mommies Night last Saturday and various other stuff keeping me away from the computer. Finally, I don't have much to say. Maybe some photo posts are a better way of sharing my days without boring anyone with the mundane. I'll see about getting one or two done tomorrow.

Valentine's Weekend in review

2009-02-16T22:53:00.003-07:00

Hubs had a birthday last Friday. His last before the big 3-0. He took it in stride but didn't want to do anything. So I postponed the celebration until Sunday. That and Bubba was sick so we couldn't have anyone over until he was better.

Valentines Day was a mellow day with a sick little but when he was tucked into bed Hubs and I did have a good time getting DRUNK. (The first time in years for me.) It was kinda nice to do low key since years past has made V-day one that I want to celebrate but just end up being disappointed. This year with no expectation things turned out well. Hubs even made dinner while I was required to sit on the sofa. Cool.

The birthday party on Sunday was nice. Again low key since we only invited his mom, brother, and the McCormicks. I made a beautiful carrot cake. It was my first frosted cake all by myself. The best part was it tasted better than it looked.

I hope everyone had a fantastic Valentines Day.

By the way... Mom, thanks for the treats for the kids. I will be sure to get J & V theirs as soon as I see them.

Crimson is complete!

2009-02-08T00:06:00.003-07:00

Do a happy dance with me. I finished my second garment for the year. Crimson is so pretty. It was looking like things weren't going to work out because of design/bra issues but a new bra helped the situation. So here it is. My pride & joy for February.

Up next is the top to match my PJ bottoms, Simplicity 2811. Who know maybe I'll even finish it before the end of the month. I don't suppose that lets me off the hook for March though.

Almost done

2009-02-02T23:03:00.003-07:00

Crimson is almost done. I need to finish the hem and add some buttons. Procrastination is what kept me away from finishing today. Why? you may ask. It doesn't fit very well. The top panel will cover my chest but not my bra. Solution may be to buy a different bra or sew some lace or ruffle into the neckline. (Less coverage.) Also because I have apparently fallen off the weightloss wagon I look somewhat pregnant in the blouse. AND because my arms are large I couldn't use the button closure on the sleeves. That is a minor setback and I may have a creative solution for it.

State of the Goals, February Edition

2009-02-01T23:54:00.003-07:00

Being Frugal has inspired me to do a goals address.

My 2009 Goals
1. Lose 30 more lbs - no progress here, regress actually. This month I will make sure to drink 8 glasses of water daily and cut out sweets.
2. Hand make as many birthday presents as possible - There were 2 birthdays last month and I did not make anything for either one. I do plan to make up my sister's birthday with a skirt. My uncle will be the happy recipient of a Bubba canvas.
3. Photograph more (daily) - I have been taking lots of images but this has not yet become a daily habit. I will work on making this a conscious thought daily.
4. Walk with Bubba 3x per week - We have walked a couple of times but not three times in one week. This week it is on the plan for Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday.
5. Sew one thing (at least) for myself each month - I did it! Read about my success here.
6. Make cookies with Bubba 1x per week - I think for the sake of #1 this will be revised to once per month. I did make pressed cookies this month so that totally counts.
7. Get a part time job that I like - Cleaning apartments is NOT what I want to do BUT it will help me contirbute to our financial situation.
8. Make a realistic budget - I am in the data gathering stage this month (FEB) and listening to Dave Ramsey's Total Money Makeover on audiobook.
9. Blog more consistantly about what we are doing - since I only blogged 8 times last month I am gonna call this a bust for Jan. I am making a list of what I'd like to write in my notebook so I can get my thoughts down on paper before I get on the computer.
10. Organize my desk and business stuff and maintain it - Ha, Ha, Yea right.
11. Stay on top of business filing once a week - See #10.
12. Toilet train Bubba - no further progress
13. Decorate our bedroom - $$$ is an issue to be able to do this one.
14. Try 1 new recipe weekly - Puff Pancake
15. Trip to library bi-weekly - eek I really need to do this before my fines are too much to han.
16. Field trip to museums or zoo monthly - nope, I think we are adding the Park to this list.

Golden Brown & Delicious

2009-02-01T01:35:00.003-07:00

Sausage-Broccoli Puff Pancake
adapted from recipe submitted by Kathy Steppler to Allrecipes.com

INGREDIENTS

1/4 cup butter or margarine
3/4 cup milk
2/3 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs
1/2 teaspoon salt
FILLING:
2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms
1 small onion, sliced into rings
2 tablespoons butter or margarine
1 pound bulk pork sausage
1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped broccoli
1/3 cup uncooked instant rice
1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

DIRECTIONS

Place butter in a glass 9-in. pie plate; place in a 400 degrees F oven for 2-3 minutes or until butter is melted. Remove from the oven. In a bowl, whisk milk, flour, eggs and salt until smooth; pour into hot pie plate. Bake at 400 degrees F for 25 minutes or until puffed and golden. Meanwhile, in a skillet, saute mushrooms and onion in butter until tender; remove and set aside. In the same skillet, cook sausage over medium heat until no longer pink; drain. Stir in broccoli and rice are tender. Stir in mushroom mixture and cheese. Cover and keep warm When pancake is removed from oven, immediately spoon filling into center and serve.

I did it!

2009-01-31T23:59:00.000-07:00

I told you about Crimson the other day but that was before I got a short term part time job. I just happened to work all day Friday and part of today too. With my self imposed deadline only hours away and a baby boy who went to bed early I decided to go ahead with the backup plan.

This is the pattern I used. I only did the pants tonight but have plans to make the top as well. The top will be made out of the cute flannel cherry print I used for the ties on the pants.

Ta Da. I am washing them now and hope to lounge most of tomorrow in them. I was in under the wire at 5 minutes to midnight. It feels so good to have honored the commitment to myself.

Next month will resume with Crimson. The start is looking good and I think I fixed the issue I was having with the bobbin thread. If I have time (Ha, ha) I may throw in the bonus project of the pj top in the above pattern.

I shall call you Crimson

2009-01-27T23:51:00.005-07:00

One of my resolutions/goals this year was to make a garment for myself each month. Since the days of the month are decreasing rapidly I thought I should get started. I have a quick backup project if this one doesn't come to fruition by Saturday afternoon.

This is Simplicity 3750. I bought this pattern last summer. Or was it spring? At any rate that is why I have a clearly warmer weather garment when the current forecast doesn't peek over 50 degrees. This one was also up because I have had much of the material cut an in a project box for 5+ months. I am doing view A which is the drawing center left hand side. I am calling this blouse (Does anyone else use this word anymore?) Crimson in honor of the beautiful red I chose for the main fabric. I think Cherries & Cream would also have been an appropriate choice as the contrasting band is a white on white print.
I can't wait to put this on. That requires that is be much further on though. I did have to rip out the same seem several times tonight though so I put it away much sooner than I would have liked. Sometimes you just know when you are beat and must come back to it later. So the plan is to convince Hubby to take Bubba to Sportsman's Warehouse tomorrow so I can get in some **extra** quality time with my machine. Maybe a bribe of delicious homemade pizza for lunch will do the trick.
Wish me luck and that the seem ripper stays put away.

At A Loss

2009-01-24T02:00:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure how to feel for the last day or so. My paternal grandpa passed away yesterday night. I am unsure how to feel because he did a lot of really nasty things in his life as well as some amazingly good ones. I am choosing to live in the moment and accept whatever feeling I have at the time I have it.
This evening my aunt called me to let me know that there will be no funeral now because he is being cremated and they will be spreading his ashes this spring at Collyer Mountain. While I think cremation is the responsible choice these days I also feel like I have been let down without a funeral at which to say goodbye. Since I haven't really been shedding tears I assumed that my emotions would come at the funeral. Now I don't feel that I have that chance. I guess when I finally wrap my head around it I will grieve.

My steal at Joann's

2009-01-18T11:03:00.002-07:00

I had a $25 gift card from christmas so I used that and $7 cash for all of this. The receipt said I saved $130! Such a steal!

Bubba in pictures

2009-01-18T09:53:00.004-07:00

Granny accompanied me & Bubba to the park when we had a warm day recently. He started out the day a little scared of the grid that you walk on but was soon over that and running like a wild man wanting to do everything. Love it.

I love it when Daddy & Bubs do stuff together. They love to color and look through the scopes of Daddy's guns.

Bubba and I made baked chicken together too. He is really starting to take an interest in the kitchen and cooking.

It seems that we don't have a day that goes by without a request to color. (He is starting to say the word too.)

"What are you doin bud?"

We have a quilt to make for cousin J. My little guy wanted to help.

Potty training is on its way. Bubba is getting used to sitting still for a few minutes while on the potty.

"Dada I was sleeping."
"I'm going back to sleep."

Bubba is getting so creative with his toys. Recently he decided to make his own microphone stand with a wooden screwdriver and funnel.

So this is our last couple of weeks in pictures. Hope you enjoyed it.

Blah, Blah this. Blah, blah that.

2009-01-15T22:39:00.003-07:00

I feel bad for not posting anything of real substance in too long. Sorry bout that. I've been lazing about and missing my Col and waiting to see a therapist about some pretty pills and good advise. Today I got off my arse and did a few things around the house. Then I saw the therapist who gave me some good advise and a referral to see the other Dr about the pills. I got some retail therapy for SuperCheap (said best like Little Einsteins "Super Fast") at Joanns. Finally I got to see my most missed Col too. Oh yea and her hubs and little girl. All in all a good day. Want more detail? Keep reading.

The house has been a bit neglected while I have used fatigue and lack of interest as reasons for allowing it to be so. Today I made an effort. Laundry is 80% washed and dried with a 70% on put away. The kitchen (before dinner guests) made its way to useable again. I feel like I clean my kitchen at least 2-3 times a day. Does anyone else? Kitchen? Check. Hubs fixed the slow draining tub so I was able to clean it without sloshing around the dirt. Bathroom? Check. Vacuum floors? Check. Lots more do do tomorrow? Double check.

I did get a couple of financial issues resolved, at least for the month. Money makes me ill at times. Especially when we lack it come bill time. The winter is usually tight for us since Hubs cannot work in the cold but add in the current economic situation and we have an extraordinarliy hard time paying everything when due. To get those items checked off my list is heart lifting.

I think Dr M. is going to work out. He is older and wiser with lots of experience in the field. His advise until out next session is to start taking more Vitamin D, more than what is in my multi vitamin. He also recommended that I walk outside daily for at least 40 minutes. This kills 2 birds, need for sunlight & need for excersize, with one act. He also suggested that I attend a Women's group next Tuesday. I am certain I will be there. He also referred me to the med Dr. I'll be seeing Dr Swift at the end of the month.

I saved a boat load at Joanns today on Simplicity patterns and 4 fabrics that were half off, half off. That deserves it's own post with pictures.

And dinner with the Mc's was wonderful as always. I can't wait to do dinner at their house tomorrow night.

For now I am off to bed. Good night.

3 grocery stores & a trip across town by 1pm

2009-01-06T23:55:00.004-07:00

That is what our morning looked like. We hit up Albertsons, Safeway and Target before racing through unloading / putting away and A's lunch. Then off to Grandpa's house for lunch and getting materials for the bed & chair project.

My Dad & I debated over many color combos. That choice doesn't have to be made for a couple of weeks so I will think on it a bit more.

After leaving Grandpa's we got home with a sleeper in the car. It was a good thing Hubs was home because I needed to hit up one more store before I could call it done for the week. I got some major good deals. I saved over $140 today. I spent about $175. I think that is about 45% savings. Not bad if I do say so myself. Thanks to Grocery Game for the assist.

Now I am beat and need some sleep before I go to my therapy intake appointment tomorrow. We won't be working on any issues yet, just figuring out what the issues are. Wish me luck. I'll report back anything interesting.

Accomplishments & Goals

2009-01-01T16:39:00.004-07:00

Last year I had a list that was nearly 3 pages of New Year resolutions. The only one that really stuck was weight loss. I did lose the 30 lbs I set out for. (I gained back 5 for the holidays.)
Other things I accomplished last year:
learned to sew
handmade christmas
made a new Mommy friend
sewed 3 garments for myself
learned basic knitting stitched
learned to embroider
got a better summer wardrobe
maintained an organized kitchen

My 2009 Goals
1. Lose 30 more lbs
2. Hand make as many birthday presents as possible
3. Photograph more (daily)
4. Walk with Bubba 3x per week
5. Sew one thing (at least) for myself each month
6. Make cookies with Bubba 1x per week
7. Get a part time job that I like
8. Make a realistic budget
9. Blog more consistantly about what we are doing
10. Organize my desk and business stuff and maintain it
11. Stay on top of business filing once a week
12. Toilet train Bubba
13. Decorate our bedroom
14. Try 1 new recipe weekly
15. Trip to library bi-weekly
16. Field trip to museums or zoo monthly

Lullaby and Good Night

2008-12-29T22:11:00.004-07:00

Our boy is getting bigger everyday. A day has not gone by recently without me saying "Right on Bubba." He is learning so much and doing so much. Since he will be a Big Boy soon (if he isn't already) he needs a big boy bed. Not just any run of the mill toddler bed will do though. He needs something cool and stylish. Here comes my confession... I spent most of yesterday's naptime looking at toddler & platform beds. I knew going in that I wouldn't buy something but was looking for something to inspire our own creation. I will be working with my dad over the next several weeks to build this bed (and chair).
These are my inspiration photos:

This is an amazing bed for a growing boy. It will allow for a little underbed storage. I love the bench feature. I think it will help when he wants to start dressing himself. Plus the low profile of it will be great for his use for the next few (4?) years. Here is the manufacturer website.

The lime green & grey are the colors we are going to paint the bed, chair and the art easel (that my dad is making).
I am also going to make this chair at the same time. Since I'll have the material and be doing all the same processes it just makes sense to make it all together. 3 benefits. 1) It will match the other furniture. 2) It will cost far less to make than to buy. 3) This is exactly what I want.

These are others I found while looking. I like the modern aesthetic. Spot on Square is the designer.
Plus this one folds up like a chair. How cool is that? Go check it out here.

Feeling blah

2008-12-28T00:33:00.003-07:00

I am depressed. I have been here before and I am sure this isn't the last time. My depression seems to mostly be seasonal. So I think I have Seasonal Affective Disorder. I am also exhibiting symptoms of major depression. So I have decided that I am going to do something about it. I will be going for an orientation/evaluation on Monday afternoon. I feel better that I am doing something about it. Since I am sans insurance I will be going to a place that works on a sliding scale. This also means that they have a waiting list for treatment.
Cheers to getting myself back to normal in the new year.

Only 364 days left to do it again.

2008-12-26T10:21:00.003-07:00

I enjoy christmas. It is a great reason to get together with family that is not often seen together.
Next year I'd like to continue these traditions:
- visiting Santa with pictures
- baking cookies and making candies
- handmade gifts (even though this year I kinda lost momentum)
- decorating the house
- new ornaments for the felt tree

I want to institute these traditions:
- advent calendar with activities relating to the season
- making a few kid friendly crafts for A to give as gifts
- make the month more about seeing friends & family (all year long)

Bliss & Baking

2008-12-24T10:15:00.001-07:00

I love to bake but only seem to do it around the holidays. Maybe that will be another resolution for 2009. Baking with Bubba once a week.
I'll be doing more of this today. See ya around.

We love visitors

2008-12-21T00:01:00.003-07:00

We got special visitors today. Hubs brother & sister in law brought the newest member of the family over. Little L is only 5 weeks old. It must have been serendipity because just yesterday I was missing the brand new little stage with Bubba. Good stuff.
Bubba provided great entertainment after our meal. It was pretty good if I do say so myself. Parmesan crusted mahi mahi, creamed spinach and rice with tomatoes. Our guy had a good time as you can see above. He was rockin' the air guitar (his latest musical thing) like the rock star he is. Who knows maybe someday he will have a real guitar.

We are gearing up to the final days before the holiday. I have lots of cookie making and baking to do. Since we had visitors today and we will be visitors tomorrow I forsee a late night coming up.

What we've been up to

2008-12-18T23:50:00.005-07:00

Christmas is the perfect time to make candies. Here are my salted chocolate caramels. I am going to attempt True Love Truffles tomorrow. And if all turns out I may even make Microwave Peanut Brittle too. (That one requires littles to be in bed.)

Bass Pro Shops put on a great Winter Wonderland. My boy did good with Santa (as expected since the kid has never met a stranger). His favorite part of the display was the train. He also loved the giant catfish in the tank. I think this was the first time we have been to Bass Pro that he has responded to the fish. He was really telling them what for. Thanks Granny for going with us. We had a great time.

I have wanted to try my hand at knitting for a while. I decided to take the plunge. While I am no where near the end of my first project, a gray wool scarf, I am pleased with the progress I am making. I certainly think this is another piece to the Liz puzzle.

Aside from the above we have been fighting off the tail end of the illness. I am happy to report that I am feeling better and the Boy is on the mend as well. Guess that means we need to get back to the usual tomorrow. I have a date with the bathroom and the mop. Good times.

I am such a follower

2008-12-18T16:41:00.002-07:00

Mary changed up her blog and linked Izzie Grace who made the background. I liked it so I had to do mine too. What do you think? Me likey.

Obsession is not just a parfume

2008-12-14T22:32:00.003-07:00

I get a little obsessive at times. Ok, so whenever some silly little idea pops into my head and I like it, I tend to obsess. Take today for example. It was/is SuperFreezing so we were NOT going outside unless mandatory. (sidebar: which was good to limit smoking to a single one today.) So I sat myself in front of my computer for hours! I was on a mission to find coupons. I did. Time well spent? I guess we'll see when we thaw out and go grocery shopping.
What I should have been doing? Making banana nut bread. Melting chocolate. Deciding on final food gifts. I guess those are priority tomorrow.

GERMS!

2008-12-12T22:57:00.003-07:00

Yesterday was the first official day that our household has not been sick all week. The week started out with a super productive Sunday that included mopping, bathroom cleaning and LAUNDRY! I felt oh so good about these accomplishments.
Then germs struck. I woke up early feeling like I was in the early stages of pregnancy (i'm SO not!), ya know the sick-to-my-stomach-think-i'm-gonna-hurl deal. I though well maybe if I don't move the feeling will pass. Yeah right. Thank goodness the bathroom is right around the corner. Shortly thereafter I heard hubby with our boy. He makes sad little whimpers when he's nauseated. Poor kiddo. I felt so bad for him all day. That is when I wasn't taking care of my own issues.
Fortunately we have a good Daddy/Hubs in our world. He got us some takeout soup and Gatorade. It was so nice to not have to worry about making dinner. Thanks Hubs.
Then of course Hubs comes down with a flu like sickness on Tuesday. So all three of us were feeling pretty miserable. It would have been a wonderful day to have a tv in our room where we could all watch videos and sleep the day away. Guess the living room sofa & tv will have to suffice.
Unfortunately it took until yesterday for A & I to feel better. Hubs is fully recovered today. Now if we can only keep the germs away from us we will all be better for a while.
Between catching up the laundry pile, the housework that was neglected and a couple of friendships our time has been exhausted. We did make something for the christmas goodie boxes today. I share more about that next time. I promise it is worth coming back for. Until then, Happy Holidays!

There's a birthday coming

2008-12-07T12:09:00.000-07:00

and I'm not ready. My nephew, J, is turning 7 on Tuesday. (Yes, Mom I still have the card you sent up here.) I am not ready because I need to make a rag quilt for his present and cupcakes decorated like bowling balls & pins for the party. Fortunately Col is coming over tomorrow to help with baking & decorating. I can guarantee it will be fun based on our cookie expedition last Friday. The party should be fun too since we were just talking about wanting to go bowling.

In other news: I have finally taken a huge chunk out of Mt Washmore (my laundry for the non-flybabies) and feel really good about it. As I was telling Mom on the phone today, I really like doing my laundry but only when I have it under control. I HATE doing it and avoid it as much as possible when the piles just keep building!

Also I signed up at Juicy Juice a while back and got a sippy cup in the mail yesterday. That was a nice surprise. I also got a Huggies #3 sample diaper. There was also a recipe book from Ragu. I just love surprises in the mail. Don't you?

In the spirit of the holiday

2008-12-05T22:31:00.003-07:00

Today our friends came over and we made:
I got the recipe here. This is a wonderful gingerbread if you like less spice and lots of good flavor. They are okay when eaten without icing but so much better with it. This icing was very runny so we used a TON of sugar to make it thicker. We also set the icing in the freezer for 10 minutes or so to firm up as well.

This one is my favorite:
We didn't get to ice all of them so we will be doing more tomorrow.

Here is a picture taken my Hubs. We all laughed hard when we saw it.

When you wish upon a star...

2008-12-04T23:07:00.000-07:00

I know our gift giving/receiving this year will be extremely limited but hey a girl can dream right?
In the Kitchen...
* I have been frying up a storm lately with all that Perfect Sesame Chicken and frozen mozzarella sticks. So I'd like one of these. But I'd settle for this one.
* Another kitchen helper would be a wok like this one.
* I would love to have a stack of cookbooks like Mary. That would take some doing. I'll settle for Domestic Goddess, Feast, Entertaining Simple, Grill Everyday or Back To Basics.
In my craft area...
* I have grand plans for sewing in the new year. One of those plans is to make a garment for myself each month. So I'd really like a gift card to Hobby Lobby, JoAnn's or Fabritopia.
Around the house...
* Since I ripped the sheet while making the bed the other day I'd like a new set of these beautiful sheets for winter and these for the rest of the year.

There is certainly more that I could/do lust after but this is a good enough list for now.

Did I miss it?

2008-12-03T22:29:00.004-07:00

How on earth did I ever get to 100 posts? I knew it would happen but I figured it would take me FOR.EV.ER! since I am not a regular poster. Ah, well, here we are. Cool.

Moving On. I have a teaser shot for you from my decorations. I would have shared more tonight BUT my camera battery died. (Part of me did the happy dance because I am just not sure about the BIG decoration project yet. More on that tomorrow.) So here is what you do get to see.

Red, Silver & Blue is not my theme. I am using what I had along with a few bits from the dollar store. I think it is going to be arranged in a way that the blue & white goes into the bedrooms and the red & silver stay in the living room/kitchen. We'll see what happens.

Moving On again. The theme for NaBloPoMo (NBPM) is Thanks. So in the spirit of that I am feeling thankful for my Hubs today. He makes me smile LOTS. He also is a really fantastic Daddy. I can't imagine my life without this amazing man.

Our last topic for today is: My Oh-crap-christmas-is-just-around-the-corner-and-I-have-to-make-a-million-presents list.
I have really pared down my initally planned list to the following:
Hubs - Another hat? Who knows what I'll make.
Bug - A finished quilt
Papasan - Several photos of the kidlets framed. Some from our childhood too.
Sisterness - a skirt of our design
Mr Kitty - blanket
Princess - blanket
Gomer - blanket
Bestest Aunt & Uncle - that embroidered bit I finished forever ago.
BFF - that darned handbag that I have set aside for weeks
BFF's Hubby - wool beanie & scarf
GG (also known as The First Gilrfriend) - The doll that is already done.

The rest will be duplicate gifts: Silhouettes, banana bread, jam, and homemade candies & cookies.

Send me to bed before the weirdness that was this post infects the rest.

While the men were out

2008-12-02T23:35:00.002-07:00

Today (as with the rest of the days this week) Hubby was home due to lack of real work. He did however venture out into the world to pick up and drop off samples for a customer. On his way out the door Little Man "ooh, ooh, oohed" his way into an invitation for the ride. So I was without men in the house for a whole 2.5 hours this morning. What does a sick chick do with this kind of time? Well, a regular sick chick would haul herself off to bed and rest. But that is NOT what I did. I decorated for christmas. I know I am strange but the sense of accomplishment it gave me made up for the constant need to use a tissue.
I am trying something new to go with the kid that gets into ev.er.y.th.i.ng. I need it to settle in before I share photos. I am thinking about tweaking it tomorrow anyway.

In the year twenty oh nine

2008-12-01T08:00:00.006-07:00

So I am already thinking about the start of the new year. Personally I want to decide on a few goals and make meaningful and do able resolutions. Parentally (That is a word. I looked it up in the dictionary.) I want to have a plan so on January 1 I am not freaking out thinking "Where did all the time go? What am I going to present A?" There is a ton more that I am sure will be boring to everyone but me.
So what is my purpose for this particular post? It is a rough draft gathering of the many projects I want to tackle next year. Including but not limited to clothing patterns, crafting projects, sewing and paper projects. I find many times that by bookmarking a particular sight that lose interest in the project long before I have time to review and complete it. So here I will be able to give myself a little pep talk before each link and remind myself what I had in mind.
LoveBug is going to need a place special to put his artwork and other triumphs so I need to make a message/art board for him. I love this idea for our bedroom as well.
I really want to make a quilt this upcoming year. This one seems even simpler than the rag quilt I made GG. This may be a great top for our bed.
I have had my eye on fabric bins for the living room and Love Bug's room. These are the perfect solution.
These little pouches would make great little gifts for the travelers in my life.
Another (simple) quilt. This would be great for a couch throw as well as a baby blanket.
I can't get enough of shoes & handbags. I love this pattern and think it would be a nice bag.

NaBloPoMo

2008-12-01T00:38:00.001-07:00

I decided to join NaBloPoMo and challenge myself to a post a day for December.

The theme is THANKS.

Yesterday I was thankful we were able to pay rent.
Today I am thankful for the food in our refrigerator.

A Choo! Excuse me.

2008-11-29T21:02:00.003-07:00

On Thanksgiving night after the festivities I started really coming down with icky illness. Headache, sneezes, either a runny nose or congestion (my nose cannot decide which to be), just general blah. So I have done little more than the minimum for the last 2 days. I did get to the grocery store tonight but that short trip drained me. Thankfully Hubs put away the groceries for me and Little Man went to bed nice and easy. I did make some cocoa for me and Hubs but now I am beat. I am considering just going to bed and dealing with the kitchen and laundry tomorrow. I know full well that I will take care of the kitchen even if I don't get to the laundry tonight.
**Sharleen I promise to get your wallet in the works just as soon as I can.**
Well my cocoa is gone so I can't avoid my kitchen any longer. Good Night All.

Pie. Oh my!

2008-11-28T21:43:00.003-07:00

We had a great Thanksgiving. I made 3 pies and green bean casserole. One of the pecan pies was commandeered by Hubs. I found this great recipe on allrecipes.com. I have to say that this was the easiest and prettiest pie I have ever made. Hubs ate a whole pie by himself (over 3 days) so I think it gets his seal of approval.

I also made a Pumpkin Pie from this recipe. (Also from allrecipes.com.) It was simple and since I had a premade crust it was easy too.

Giveaway winner.

2008-11-25T21:09:00.005-07:00

I had 7 comments for the giveaway. Thanks ladies. It made me feel good to know that this wallet is something others might like. So are you curious who the winner is?

sharleen.2cupsofcoffee said...: I love everything green and some brown too. Great giveaway. I love the new look and can't wait to check out the montessori blog.

Congratulations! I will be following up with an email to verify colors and decoration.

PS. I think I may be getting a cold. ICK! Does anyone have any really good immune boosters that I can take to feel better before the holiday?

O Christmas Tree To Be, Part 3

2008-11-24T22:48:00.002-07:00

Can I just gush about my ornament project? I love them. They are certainly talking a bit to do but are well worth it. What do you think?
Do you have a favorite ornament? I'd love to see them.

Practicing for Santa

2008-11-24T22:38:00.003-07:00

Hubs has been requesting cookies for the last (maybe longer?) so tonight I made these. I found the recipe here on AllRecipes.com. They are just right. Not too chewy or crunchy. I am a cookie batter fiend so I think I did good to get the full 3 dozen out of the recipe.
It did me good to get a little practice for Santa.

Words that speak to me

2008-11-24T16:07:00.002-07:00

"Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans."
-- John Lennon

Yes. I am a serial planner. I like my lists. I like to know what my options are. I hate the feeling of mid morning and not knowing what I am going to do for the day. But these words must be pondered. Do I quit making my lists and stop my minor plans to let life happen? Am I not enjoying my life to the fullest because I am too busy making plans?

Ahh Shucks

2008-11-24T13:56:00.000-07:00

Mary gave me my first blog award. Blush. Thanks Mary. I love your blog too.

1. Where is your cell phone? purse
2. Where is your significant other? sleeping
3. Your hair color? blah
4. Your mother? crazy
5. Your father? crazy
6. Your favorite thing? sewing machine
7. Your dream last night? boring
8. Your dream/goal? home
9. The room you're in? living
10. Your hobby? sewing
11. Your fear? being alone
12. Where do you want to be in six years? PTA president
13. Where were you last night? home
14. What you're not? thin
15. One of your wish list items? spa day
16. Where you grew up? Denver
17. The last thing you did? ornaments
18. What are you wearing? jammies
19. Your T.V.? behind closed doors
20. Your pets? large!
21. Your computer? tiny
22. Your mood? loving
23. Missing someone? nah.
24. Your car? dying
25. Something you're not wearing? watch
26. Favorite store? Target
27. Your Summer? unfulfilled
28. Love someone? lots
29. Your favorite color? red
30. When is the last time you laughed? minutes
31. Last time you cried? days

I am passing this on to Lynn Michelle for her amazing, fantastic, wonderful photography and personality. If I ever get to Texas I am going to your studio! Also to Emily because every post is filled with fun pictures and excitement. And last but not least to Steph for the inspiration to teach A at home. I love all your blogs!

O Christmas Tree To Be, Part 2

2008-11-22T11:32:00.003-07:00

Last night I finally sat down to my sewing machine and got the felt for the tree sewn. It did not take long so I wonder why I was procrastinating about it?
Today I stuffed the 4 boughs. I used embroidery floss and a blanket stitch to close them up and add a little character. They are currently safety pinned together for pictures but I want to come up with a kid friendly method of putting them together. Velcro seems to be the first choice but what keeps kiddos from completely tearing apart the tree instead of just re-arranging the ornaments? Safety pins may work out once it is attached to the wall.

Next step is adding the trunk. Once that is attached and installed on the wall then we can begin to decorate. (Although I will not be putting the tree up until after Thanksgiving. There is just something that irks me about too much christmas too soon. It's one thing to have a few songs or a little decor early but when the mall looks like Santa is there the day after Halloween I get a little cranky.)

Also, seeing this finished size I think I may be making too many ornaments. What am I going to do with the extras you ask. Why, I am going to make them into a garland for the space between the kitchen and living room of course.

Sorry about the lack of process pictures. It seems that if I don't format my card semi regularly then my card eats my images. GRRR!

I love the idea of fabric bags.

2008-11-19T08:20:00.002-07:00

SimpleMom is having a giveaway that I am excited about. She and 6 companies are giving away 17 bags, a reusable bottle and a lunchbag. So go check it out and enter to win.
I am using fabric bags to wrap christmas presents in this year. If you (or I) don't win the giveaway then we can always get the red ones from Target. They are selling the envelope bags for 2/$1.00 this week. I picked up 6 yesterday and will probably go back for more before the end of the week.

3 Little Snow People

2008-11-18T23:03:00.004-07:00

Felt Tree Update:
The material has been cut (for 3 days). All that is left to do is sew and stuff the tree.
Ornaments Update:
I have completed 1 set (3) ornaments with only 10 more sets to go. Want to see what I have done?

I am quite giddy over these little artworks. (Ok, so maybe I am exagerating by calling them artwork but I really love them.) I think this is a must have for every family. Next year I am going to make an ornament for each family in the extended fam.

I am falling asleep at the keyboard so it is bedtime. Night.

Giveaway! I love a giveaway.

2008-11-17T00:24:00.002-07:00

**comments closed and giveaway announced here.**
After much deliberation (especially I didn't think I would get the 5 comments) about what would make a good giveaway prize I have the answer. This giveaway is something I created from concept and research to paper prototype and final product. So I am extremely proud of it.

This is my personal wallet but the lucky winner is going to get to choose 2 colors. I will choose the material based on color selection at my local fabric store. The bonus will be custom embroidery on it in either a paisley, initial, scroll or floral design.
Want a chance to win? Leave me a comment with your color combo and design choice. I will have my son choose from his magnet numbers to pick a winner. I will close comments midnight (MST) Monday, Nov 24 and I will announce a winner on Tuesday, Nov 25 . Good Luck.

Snow has fallen

2008-11-16T23:35:00.002-07:00

and I didn't think to take a picture. I am so not blogger material. I think about taking pics after the fact or days later when I am blogging about my day(s) past. So in order to challenge myself this week I am going to post pics of our day. (Of course this starts tomorrow since I left the camera behind today.)
I have 2 projects in the middle stages. I hope to have the christmas tree done tomorrow. The silhouettes are a little time consuming but Col is coming over tomorrow and we are going to work on them together. We are also going to create the ornaments for our tree too.
More on the giveaway in the morning when I can catch the prize in some pretty morning light. Hint? It is slim, colorful and if you are anything like me you will use it everyday.

Better Late Than Never

2008-11-16T00:20:00.003-07:00

While my beautiful child slept one afternoon last week I was able to create my autumn wreath. I am very happy about how it turned out. The best part is that I didn't need to glue anything so I will be able to transition the wreath to other seasons.

Our boy's favorite part is the berries. It's mine too.

quickie

2008-11-13T20:40:00.003-07:00

I got the 5+ comments to a post so I will be doing a giveaway. I will announce it in a couple of days. Anyone interested should stay tuned.

Gimme. Gimme.

2008-11-13T15:07:00.002-07:00

Who doesn't love free stuff? I don't know a soul. So I went to Freebies 4 Mom today and I found a great freebie or fifty.
Dunkin Donuts also spoke to my blogger self and gave me this cool button that will let you get a free sample. How nifty is that?

Go. Find some freebies that you can receive in just 6-10 weeks.

O Christmas Tree To Be, Part 1

2008-11-12T21:31:00.003-07:00

Today I decided on making our christmas tree. Since we don't have a lot of room in our rental I threw out the old tree when the baby was on his way. So out with the old and in with the new. We still don't have much room (haven't moved yet) so I must do something small or 2-D.
After much searching of Flickr & Google images I found my pattern. My mind has transitioned through many internal rough drafts in a short time. Quite exhausting work ya know.
I am thinking the tree should be about 4' tall and no more than 3' wide. It will be made of either felt or fleece. I will also be making ornaments with velcro on the back so Little can rearrange them at will.

I think I am going to try to take photos along the way and share the trials and outcome with you. For now though I am on my way to bed. An early trip to WalMart or Hobby Lobby requires it.

Housekeeping and new stuff

2008-11-11T11:28:00.003-07:00

I spent some (ok, a lot) time this morning prettying up this blog. Good thing too since I have had several visitors from the I Can Make That party hosted by Chris at Just a Girl. Please go to the party. There have been several ideas that I already bookmarked for review next time I need to make gifts.
The new look is a free one from Lena at Simply Fabulous Blogger Templates. She has lots of great templates. Including some lovely holiday themes.
I also started a couple of new blogs. The first one is to showcase the beautiful work my Hubs does. He does such a great job with his masonry I just had to put together a blog to brag about it. Please come in and take a look.
The second blog I started is Mile High Montessori. This is where I will be recording our preschool adventure beginning in January. In the mean time I will be sharing my preparation work.
Well it looks like naptime is upon us. Bye.

A little progress

2008-11-09T22:41:00.004-07:00

**Thanks for all the comments. Please go here to enter the giveaway because of all the comment love.**

I have almost finished this project. When I get a chance to go to Hobby Lobby again I will get a wood embroidery hoop to frame it. I was inspired by a few cakes on Flickr. The yellow is not as pronounced as I was hoping for but I think it does the job of highlighting the pattern.

This project is complete. It turned out a bit longer than necessary but I like the ruffle at the bottom. This may be something I keep for myself. We shall see. (Sorry for the blurry photo. I should have retaken it but it's late.)

So I have a couple of things to show for last week. Mind you they are not the things I told myself needed to be done. Ahhh, such is the to do list when one project is bugging me.

Col's bag is giving me headaches since it has been on my TO DO list for weeks. I did get a couple of steps done last week but I still have several to go before the bag is done. The light at the end of the tunnel is that of all the people I am creating for this year I think she will appreciate it most.

Instead of the calendars I may be making lots of ornaments for the fam. The calendars (a great idea) are going to be quite expensive and time consuming. Kimba did these and I fell in love. I am seriously considering taking on this project because while it will still be time consuming I think the cost will be LOTS less. I will have a verdict by tomorrow night.

O.Ba.Ma. O!Ba!Ma!

2008-11-04T21:22:00.004-07:00

He did it! We did it! Wow. Part of me didn't think it could happen. All of me hoped it would. Now I can breathe a sigh of relief. And cross my fingers that W doesn't F it up in the next couple of months.
Excuse me please. I need to continue my happy dance. I am sure I will have more thoughts on this tomorrow.
This is my girlfriend and her precious little Gracie. When Obama came to Colorado he stopped in the Brighton field office. So my "niece" has met the next President of the United States.

Mr. Obama, We have given you the opportunity. Keep our hope sacred.

Another gift done

2008-11-04T12:35:00.004-07:00

**Thanks to those who have commented. Please go to the giveaway here and take part in the fun.**

I love these napkins. I certainly got better the more I did. Not that they are perfect. Maybe perfectly imperfect. Maybe perfectly handmade. The one in the front is my favorite. All those knots took a lot of time though.
On a side track I may do an art piece with millions of little french knots just because it would be so pretty. Maybe a mixture of stitches and knots just for appeal. We shall see.

Another side note. I voted. Did you? I don't want to open up my blog to all the politics but I am still girl-crushing on Saucy for her excellent blog yesterday.

I have noticed a little more traffic around here but I am not getting any comments. So if you read this or any other post can I ask you to please say "hi"? I promise not to bite and will visit your blog, and comment, if you have one. Is that enough of a bribe? No. Ok, so how's this if I get even 5 different commenters to any post in the next week I will do a giveaway. So please say "Hi."

Bittersweet

2008-11-03T12:09:00.003-07:00

I put my resume out into the world today. I am feeling so mixed about it. It means that if I get this job then
1) we should be set for the winter season. Happy, happy, joy, joy.
2) I will be rejoining the workforce. Meh.
3) we may be able to actually get our own house before the market comes back. Sweet!
4) I won't get to spend as much time with my boy. Sad.
5) Hubs will have to start helping around the house again. Good and Bad.

We will see what happens. Should not be until next week sometime.

Post of the Year

2008-11-03T08:44:00.003-07:00

I have been reading Bloggedy, Blog, Blog for a little while now. Today she had the POST OF THE YEAR! If i had an award I would give it to her because it was funny, insightful with a perfect ending. What are you waiting for? Go check it out.

Trick or Treat

2008-11-01T23:10:00.004-06:00

Halloween was very exciting for us this year since Little is able to walk and point and enjoy getting a little scared. We dressed him as a Marshall/Cowboy. I made the vest and holster out of black felt and a couple of finds from Hobby Lobby. The hat, marshall star, and gun came from Wal-Mart. Anyone who knows Hubs knew that our boy would have a gun before too long. (I'm just happy that it's fake.) Granny found the boots at Famous Footwear. (More than I would have paid but we are thankful for the gift.)

In the morning I took him to my former workplace. It was nice to visit everyone for a while. (I also got a couple of job leads. But that is for another post.) Everyone said he was so adorable. What do you think?
We also did a little Trick Or Treating in the evening. There were so few houses lit up so we only got about 5 houses. More than enough candy to tide Hubs over. Little got his share from Granny since his mama is paranoid about things that might be in the candy.

We also went to Auntie's work for their family day. My Little loves being with the big kids. They were so cute. Too bad I left the camera in the car.

I am falling asleep at the keyboard so I should go. Don't want to wake up with space bar line across my forehead.

Simple Joys

2008-10-30T22:16:00.004-06:00

Big Sigh. I just finished washing the dishes (from today and last night). While I will admit that washing dishes is one of my least favorite responsibilities, probably from doing them so often during the day, I have to add what a pleasure it is to wake up to a sparkling clean kitchen. My day seems to progress so much smoother when my kitchen is clean first thing in the morning. I think I resist getting out of bed when there are dishes to be done instead of making coffee.
Don't you agree that this makes a much better start to the day?
So my joy tonight is a clean kitchen first thing in the morning.

Working on it

2008-10-28T21:38:00.002-06:00

I feel that this should be my new theme phrase. I am constantly telling myself and others that I am working on it. It has been a variety of things lately. Today IT included picking up a check from one of Hubs customers, talking to The Mama on the phone, visiting the library, chatting with Dad & Col. My favorite IT was working on the embroidered napkins for christmas. I have 2 & 1/2 done. The best one is the one I am working on right now. I found a little more inspiration at the library and love using french knots as a filler stitch. So cute. Time consuming. But cute. Pictures when I have all 4 done (tomorrow?)

Furniture Musical Chairs

2008-10-23T21:10:00.001-06:00

In preparation for the Montessori Method being introduced into our home (in January) Hubs and I have made a few furniture decisions. A dresser was purchased recently at a yard sale for $20. This will allow our little guy to have access to his clothes and be able to start down the path to clothing independence. (Won't that be a joyous day?) I am also thinking of doing a little spray paint and drawer front decoupage. Anyone have any thoughts on painting veneer?This also freed up the armoire to become our new entertainment center. (Can you tell that I am jumping up and down with excitement?) Once the to do list becomes more manageable I will be giving this piece a little Rehab a la Kimba. I have some stain, hardware & fabric in mind. Just wait and see what happens to it next spring.

Now I only want to repurpose 1 nightstand (by the backdoor for a landing zone) and a printer stand (into a nightstand in A's room), another dresser that needs some gorilla glue, paint & decoupage and remove all traces of fans to our storage (this may be a battle as of yet since my guys have hot blood while mine must be ice water). Oops, I almost forgot that I would seriously love to make covers for the gun safe and filing cabinet. Something that would make me smile at having large metal boxes hanging around the house. Who knows, maybe the filing cabinet needs a coat of spray paint and drawer front decoupage too.

Another gift done

2008-10-23T21:05:00.000-06:00

The Mama taught me how to make a doll while I was there visiting. I like the finished product but the tinyness of it made me very frustrated. Thank goodness The Mama was there to bail me out in my times of frustration otherwise Giggles would not have graced this world.

This little dolly is temporarily named Giggles until GG decides differently. Isn't she just as cute as can be? Too bad I will most likely not be making anymore of them. The only exception may be if I ever have a daughter of my own.

A little Collyer in them all

2008-10-23T20:44:00.002-06:00

I see a little Collyer in each kid. It's mostly the eyes. Ok, so the ears too.

Cant. Get. Back. To. NORMAL.

2008-10-22T21:48:00.003-06:00

My real life has been on vacation for the last month (at least). Now I am having the hardest time getting it to within reason.
Hubs has been home and wants A and I to go with him almost everywhere he goes. Most of the time I would be happy to accompany him but I am desperate to get my house back under control and get cracking on my crafting projects. Oh Hubby, please let me stay home so I can get back to my regular routine.
Well tomorrow may not be the best day to get back in the saddle. We (A & I) are supposed to help MIL cook a turkey tomorrow. AND we have his 18 mo WBV. Did I mention that I need to get some crafting done? Oh yea, my desk is covered in randomness that is seriously throwing me out of balance. Plus I haven't gotten around to my filing in about 3 months.
Maybe MIL will take A tomorrow morning and I can take him to our Ped and be home to serve up a crock pot dinner. Continental Chicken. Sounds interesting.
I am done ranting about the last several days. There would be no point since they are over.
Positive thoughts for tomorrow... 1) I will get things done. 2) We will have a peaceful day. 3) I will take a little time for myself too.

Planning for a homemade holiday

2008-10-18T23:27:00.010-06:00

I have decided since we are getting close I need a plan of attack on this home made holiday.
Things I need to get in RED
Things I already have in YELLOW
Next Actions in GREEN

DH - ~~wool beanie~~, if I still have time I may make a lap quilt Need material. Lots of material.
Little Man - rag quilt, (crayon roll, colored pencil roll, marker roll) if time permits I will do these (we are also going to get him a big boy bed so the quilt will need to be more substantial than I was going to make.) Need material: 2 yds x 3 colors, batting, thread. Need TIME!

Sister - handbag (3 compartment, small, black, zipper and snap) I have the material for this. Pattern Complete. Cut material.
Princess V - rag quilt need material: 1.5 yds x 2 colors, batting
Jay Bug - rag quilt need material: 1.5 yds x 2 colors, batting

Uncle Doug & Aunt Phyllis - ~~Embroidered napkins (4-6)~~ Done!

Crystal - handbag I have the material for this. Cut material.

The Mama - apron Need Emmeline pattern.

Scarlett - tutu Need material, 3 yds tulle, elastic, silk flowers. Need waist measurement.

Susan - apron & hipslinger if time allows Need Emmeline pattern.
Linda - hipslinger if I have time

Matt - wool beanie & scarf, , Need 3 skeins wool in grey.
Colleen - handbag IN PROGRESS!
GG - ~~Doll~~

Logan - rag quilt Need material: 1 yd x 2 colors.

Silhouette Ornaments- get paper for background and black
~~Jam~~ - (11)
Banana Bread - (18) Find my recipe. Thaw bananas.

Pretending

2008-10-18T14:57:00.005-06:00

The greatest way to live with honor in this world is to be what we pretend to be.
Socrates

I am a pretender. Well maybe not so much a pretender as much as hiding the warts & boils and only putting my best face forward. Is that pretending or only showing my good side?

I'd like to challenge myself to live with more honor by being more like the person I pretend to be. Thank you Socrates for such an inspiration.

Entertaining Simple

2008-10-08T07:13:00.002-06:00

My morning wish...
Can I please win this giveaway from Restyled Home?

by this guy Matthew Mead

<- These look so yummy and would be a hit for a ladies night. -> If only I would have had a guide to suggest this when I was registering for our wedding.

If you want to preview the book go to his website here.

If I don't win this book is certainly on my Christmas Wish List. Anyone can buy it here. (Hint, hint.)

Finally feeling better

2008-10-07T07:23:00.002-06:00

Oh boy am I glad to finally be feeling better. All I have now is a bit of a cough and the need to blow my nose more than usual (but not nearly as much as when I was sick.
Since A and I are flying to AZ on Thursday I made myself buckle down yesterday and get lots of laundry done as well as scrubbing the tub and parts of the kitchen. Today will include more laundry (I'd like to have it all done so when I get home I only have to deal with travel & hunting laundry), cleaning the rest of the bathroom, changing sheets in both bedrooms and general dusting. For relaxation I should work on the Pleated Beauty Bag. FYI: only 11 weeks left until X-mas. That means my 100% handmade christmas might only be about 70%. Not too bad for a first year and a lesson to really start sooner for next year.
So I was going to tell all about our CA vacation but there is really not much to tell. We stayed in the middle of the desert with no real distractions. Grandma Shirley and I went shopping in town (32 miles away) one day and got the boy a really cute Raiders warm up suit. The rest of the time was spent soaking up as much sun as I could. I really hate how cold they keep their house. I was able to crochet a wool beanie for Hubs and start one for a woman. It is out of the softest bamboo yarn. The color scheme is pink camo. I like it so much I may have to keep it for myself. We shall see.
I am going to revise my handmade holiday post so you might want to check it out.

Sick day, again.

2008-10-01T21:41:00.003-06:00

It is a good thing that I don't have a paying job. I would have been calling in sick all week long.
Today I got my new glasses ordered. I got 2 pair at America's Best. The second pair was about half price so I couldn't pass up getting a backup/sassy pair. The main pair are a bronze color and the second/sassy pair are red! When I get them in I will post photos. (It may have to wait until I get back from AZ.)
I also picked up Teach Me To Do It Myself from Barnes & Noble. I am excited about this one. I already read the introduction and can't wait until I get some time to plan the "work" for Alex. Based on a few things I have noticed about him recently I think he is really ready to begin this kind of preschool.

Today was a major test of my patience and I know that I passed but I don't think I got a very good grade. After looking into it further I found a new tooth breaking through, realized that naptime was pushed back and have to concede that he may not have been feeling as good as I thought he was. So he had reason to have a short temper. I think I need to remember that pausing before reacting will really benefit us both in the long run. So noted.

Free Handbag? Sign me up.

2008-10-01T21:33:00.003-06:00

I want to win a totally free handbag. Do you? Go to PlanetHandbag.com and register to win your own. There were lots of pretty bags. Go quickly and pick one out.

Thanks Sodeste for blogging about it and sharing.

Still sick

2008-09-30T23:18:00.002-06:00

I am still feeling the crud in my sinus. It is times like this that I am so thankful that I rarely get sick. (Knocking on wood of course.) But then I think it makes me all the more pitiful when I do get sick.
A and I spent the morning on our errands that didn't get done yesterday. This included the RV store, the auto parts store, Hobby Lobby & Target. My favorite of course were the last two. Hobby Lobby provided some new Montessori materials to put away for later, some embroidery floss and bobbins to keep them (and the others) organized, lots of beautiful florals and a wreath base to make to celebrate fall. That last project will be put aside until I can recover my living room from the mass of stuff that was our vacation. (Only a little left to do.) Target was uber fun because I got to pick out my birthday presents from Hubs. I also got some new non-leaking sippy cups for our boy, a heat pad since our old one seems to be out on permanent loan, and I looked at the potty training tools that we will need to be purchasing soon. I am hopeful that the Montessori article I recently read is right when it suggests that a child is sensitive to toileting at around 18 months. Wouldn't that be grand? Target had some great eye candy for me and I was reluctant to leave the store. A was so tired that he fell asleep sitting up in the cart. As soon as I saw that he was going to stay asleep I scooped him up and laid him in the seat horizontally with his head proped on my purse for a pillow. It is amazing the places that kids can fall asleep.
Are you watching the ticker on the right side of the screen? My birthday is in just two days, well only one because there is only 30 minutes left to this day. Those who love me know that I certainly feel that my birthday should be a national holiday so I will be taking the day off of most of my domestic duties. I am thinking about taking A, Col & GG to the Art Museum to celebrate. We will see how I am feeling tomorrow to decide.
Well I need my rest so I am off to bed. Clinky with the NyQuil.

Back from vacation

2008-09-29T22:23:00.004-06:00

We made it back from our first vacation ok. A got sick on Wednesday and stayed that way even through today. I picked it up on Saturday as we were preparing to leave. Hubs got it while driving home. So our house is a sick one right now. Hubs did go to work today but he is just good like that. I am miserable. A was pushing all of my buttons today. I am ready to call it a day and hope that tomorrow is much better.
As soon as I feel better I will make a real post about the vacation along with the crafts that I completed while there. Until then I'll leave you with a few photos from our vacation.These were taken on the way home at a beautiful rest / view area in Utah called Spotted Wolf. The signs were enlightening and the view was breathtaking.We don't know of any other place in the world that we could have let A run in the road. This is the canyon where Grandma Shirley & Grandpa Gene live.

These kids are getting so big. I remember when she was just a newborn baby.

Of course I feel like I gained 10 lbs from all of Grandma's homemade meals. A liked the spaghetti and garlic bread most of all. There was not a day out there that we didn't have 3 huge meals. Thanks Grandma it was delicious. Oh, I almost forgot to thank Grandpa for the delicious tri tip on Friday night. It was fantastic.

Now for some NyQuil and a good night's rest.

Going on Vacation

2008-09-19T11:06:00.002-06:00

Tonight the Hubs, A and I leave for California. It is going to be wonderful to get out into the middle of nowhere (literally) to relax for a week. I anticipate much couple time with Hubs, lots of time for A to spend with his great grandparents, time for friends and even some alone reading and crafting time.
I am taking along several books on Montessori, some embroidery work, and some wool and a crochet hook for beanie making. I hope to have plenty of time to work on everything that I want to while out there. I am also taking my camera in hopes of getting lots of good images for future posts.
Have a wonderful time while I am gone.

Busy Bees

2008-09-16T16:25:00.003-06:00

The hubs is not at work today. His projects are all done with the exception of a couple. Those will be taken care of by T while we are in CA. Perfect. If everything wraps up well then we will be off on Friday night, returning next week on Friday or Saturday. I will then have about a week to get it together to go to AZ. We will certainly be busy bees for a while.
Today we got the camper registered, new glasses ordered for N, new lenses put in his sunglasses and some cute fall-esque clothes for A. We stopped at Old Navy and Lane Bryant looking for a cute fall coat for me but didn't find anything I really liked. I will be on a look out for something good.

One gift down, only like a million to go...

2008-09-15T14:10:00.003-06:00

Once upon a time... this last February... my mom showed me how to make a rag quilt. So when the occasion arose for a little girl's first birthday I knew just what to make. It was quite simple. I think the longest part of the whole process was picking out the material. I hope GG likes it.

Next up on the list is a Pleated Beauty Bag and a Wool Cap. Both are in process at the moment. Most likely the cap will be done first, even though I just started it last night. The bag is shaping up beautifully though. Want a peek? The stitching is a little wonky but I think it has character. Plus with this being my first attempt at satin stitch applique I think I did a remarkable job. Lessons learned? 1) make sure to use the correct foot when sewing. 2) hand work might be better next time. 3) sometimes simple is better. (I started on the outside decorative stitch and looking back think I should have just left it like it was since the loop stitch does not add to it.)

Once I finish the bag and cap I am going to have to go to the fabric store again. I am thinking I will do the Napkin & Coaster sets for 3 couples.
*D&A need something that will go in their formal dining room... which is a beautiful red. Maybe something in black & ivory?
*C&C have a simple dining room and they love the outdoors so I am thinking green & brown combos.
*C&M just got a dining table and need to have something to adorn it. She loves the big sunflowers outside her window, so maybe something in yellow. Then again this could make lovely napkins and coasters.

Oh its a good thing I am not there yet because I get lost in the fabric store.

Truth Be Told

2008-09-15T13:25:00.004-06:00

I am inspired by Randi @ I Have To Say...

~Today I took the time to put on a dress and pearls. I feel feminine and pretty.
~My new shoes make me smile and I find myself thinking about what I could wear them with. (Part of the reason for wearing the dress today.)
~I love it when my kitchen is clean first thing in the morning. Pure BLISS I tell ya.
~I am anxious for our upcoming vacations to California and Arizona. It will be wonderful to get to the middle of nowhere and just be for a week. It will also be fantastic to visit The Mama and Papa John too. Oh yeah, don't forget the sibs.
~I love to put away my laundry. It is peaceful.
~I listen to many audio books. Lots of romance novels, self help and business books. Sometimes I think too many self help books. But if I don't help myself who will?
~I would love to have a brand spankin' new Jeep like this one. At only $33k I don't think it will be happening any time soon. But if I win the lotto you can bet I will be at the dealership as soon as possible. Isn't she pretty?
~My mom is great. She makes a really good therapist. Thanks again ma.

I am putting these positive thoughts out in the world so that they may come back to me.

A is for Apple, H is for House.

2008-09-13T11:39:00.003-06:00

I just finished reading Teaching Montessori At Home: The Pre-School Years by Elizabeth G. Hainstock. While this was written many years ago it is still insightful and full of practical ideas for preschooling at home. I have a list (can you tell that I just LOVE lists?) of the ideas that I want to use with A. I have a separate list of the materials that I can make. In an effort to save money I will be making as many (there are a lot) of the materials that I can make at home (or the sign shop). I see several materials that I will have to purchase but I think I will look for them on Craigslist or Ebay before looking at the stores.
I am wondering if there are any other At Home Montessori mama's in our area. I have heard of doing a homeschool co-op so maybe there will be something like this for preschoolers. I will certainly be content to push forward if nothing like this is around but it certainly would be reassuring to have a local source for brains to pick when I am stumped. And I also know that there are a multitude of bloggers out there who are teaching montessori at home and are willing to share their thoughts. (What a relief.)
So first things first. I will begin making the Prepared Environment over the next several months. (As much as I can with seriously limited space.) I started a list (another one) this morning regarding the changes that I feel need to be made in A's bedroom. I will be doing this in the living room and kitchen too. I need to chat with Hubs before I begin on this because it is going to effect future purchases and arrangements too. Although I am certain that Hubs will just tell me to do whatever I feel is necessary.

On a related topic of purchases and space... I may have found a house for us. I walked to see it last Sunday and certainly fell in like with the place. It has a lot of potential and needs a ton of TLC. But the size is good and so is the location. The big bonus... the price was dropped by $10k in the last week. Woo Hoo. This means that it is even closer to our getting it. Want to look at it? Check here. There is an issue with lead based paint (as on almost all old houses) but they are limited to the exterior of the house so I don't think that will prevent us from making a bid on it. With the bid amount we would likely place on this our house payment would be comparable to our current rent. I just can't see us not getting into something like this if it is going to build our equity and cost us the same or a tiny bit more to own. However, since Hub and I have been looking at houses for the last 4.5 years I am not going to get my hopes up too high until we are actually making the bid. Even then it could be rejected so I will reserve most of my excitement until we close on it.

Hello Baseball Fans!

2008-09-12T07:30:00.004-06:00

Rain, Rain , Go Away!
This morning it is raining. Not a lot but enough for me to be concerned about the baseball game tonight. I am not sure that A will be able to go.
Yesterday instead of dropping A off at Granny's house I decided to stay for a while myself and get in a visit. When he went down for a nap I did got to Barnes & Noble in search of Teach Me To Do It Myself by Maja Pitamic and Montessori Play & Learn by Lesley Britton. Unfortunately my local B&N does not carry these or other montessori titles in the store. So I had to order them in because these titles aren't available from my library. I hope they call me soon to pick them up. The good thing is that I got a 10% off coupon in my email last night so I will be able to use that to purchase these books.
My library did have a couple of books that I checked out yesterday. (I currently have 19 books checked out. EEK!) The first is Teaching Montessori in the Home by Elizabeth Hainstock. I started this one last night but didn't get too far into it before it was time to go to bed. I can't wait for some reading time this afternoon. I also got Raise a Smarter Child by Kindergarten, The Homeschooling Handbook, Baby Read Aloud Basics, and The ABC's of Homeschooling. I am not sure how much of each of these books will help me on my quest for home preschooling but it couldn't hurt to give them a quick read.
I am absolutely loving these blogs! Chasing Cherios and Montessori Free Fall. These moms have great ideas and I will certainly be taking their advice and incorporating it into our world.

I'm so excited and I just can't hide it

2008-09-10T21:46:00.002-06:00

Friday night I am going to be free for several hours. For REAL! Granny and Uncle T decided over a month ago that they would like to take Little Man to his first Dodgers/Rockies game. Hubs was up for it but I was feeling... shall we say less into it. Large crowds, Downtown, just really not my thing. Throw in a sport and I'd just about rather be anywhere else.
So while Uncle T was having a hissy last month because of the CPK/Cherry Creek issue he tore up his ticket. Dude, you were kinda the point behind going but whatever. Today Granny reminded me of the occasion and told me about Uncle T's oops. I could not help but to have a smile grow on my face as she told me these words. Two reasons... First, I get to do a good thing and let Uncle T go while getting out of something I didn't want to do in the first place. Second, I get HOURS (seriously at least 3-5 hours) of me time while they take our Lil Slugger to his first ball game. Ahh, BLISS! Could one ask for more? I don't think so.
What to do? Finish the rag quilt for GG? Get a pedi? Go to bed profoundly early? Watch whatever I want on TV all night long? (oh, that sounds good. I wonder if What Not To Wear has any new episodes On Demand?) Paint my nails? Read a book or ten? WOW, too much temptation. I really must consider this before I get to the end of tomorrow.
Oh, and another PLUS provided by Granny... I get a couple of hours to myself tomorrow too. After A's nap and her shopping I get to drop him off while I do shopping and maybe make a little headway on my quilt. Can you say "SWEET!" cause it sure tastes alright by me.

Ok, so any other excitement? Yeppers. It looks like next month while Hubs is out braving the wilderness and hoping to fill our freezer I will be in the warmth that is Phoenix. This means that I am going to have to go here and pick up some serious fabric. Ok, So Blissful Living is out since their address is MESA. (Can you call 'em Ma or what?) Maybe I can talk Jen or Jona into letting me lurk in their home based stores and see if I can help myself from drooling all over their beautieous fabric. Cross your fingers cause I might just find the opportunity to get the material to do our bedroom. I promise that if we get to go either place that I will post color combos for it. The anticipation is almost too much.

Any ideas?
Here is the main fabrics... I really like the idea of a mostly B&W room with a few accents of pink. The pink is what I need to decide on case the B&W prints have been in my head for a really long time.

I can't decide if I want the black or the white background. Maybe I will do one side of each. The bedskirt is gonna be the stripe. Now to decide on the pink. Here are a couple of options...
I'm kinda leaning toward the white background with the first pink one. That way it's not just one pink and there is another color.
Decisions, decisions. And since I am practically snooring into my space bar I am gonna call it a night and end this tangent. Don't you love tangents?

Note to self... and others

2008-09-10T20:09:00.003-06:00

These gingerbread waffles look so good that I just had to leave myself a reminder to try them. That is as soon as I get a waffle iron.

Last night instead of blogging...

2008-09-10T08:48:00.003-06:00

Last night I was up way too late on my computer but I found inspiration and could not close the laptop for hours. I think I may have found something to obsess about for the next few months until the new year. Over here you will see what I am taking about. I have been lamenting much about A getting an education before he starts Pre-K. Earlier this year I read a couple of books on the Montessori way and was really intrigued. Now that I have a working model from which to pull our activities I am excited. I am thinking about starting this at the beginning of 2009. I will be using the remainder of September to evaluate the idea and discuss it with Hubs. Then if we agree about this method I will be preparing to start At-Home Preschool from Oct -Dec. I am hoping that we can put a few items needed for school on A's christmas wish list. I will also start a few activities with A in December as well as talk about having school time. Best to prepare him rather than just throw him in the water. Ya know.

Today is going to be busy and I am already behind. I hope the checkout lane is short and I can make some of it up.

A tired gal

2008-09-08T22:34:00.003-06:00

Tonight I am a tired gal. Good thing my hubs wanted to order pizza to watch the Raiders/Broncos game. (I have no idea how it turned out and honestly could care less.) I made big progress on the quilt for GG today. I appliqued the circles on the green facing panels using a super cute decorative stitch from my handy-dandy sewing machine. (I really liked playing with the decorative stitches and think I will be using them more in the future.) I then got my whole first row (4 panels) sewn together. And half (2 panels) of the second row. I would have done more but my boy was begging for me to read him Mr. Brown Can Moo, Can You? by Dr. Seuss. That was the instant priority. All is good though because I have nearly a week and a half to finish it. I seriously doubt that it will take more than two more good naps like today to finish. I can't wait to wash it and see how it gets all un-ravelly (good word) any perfect.
I must be getting to bed in hopes of getting up early tomorrow to start my full day.

It's gonna be a handmade holiday

2008-09-07T22:09:00.014-06:00

My lists are getting in the holiday spirit even if I am no where near ready for it. I thought that I would keep tabs on my projects for gifts here. My goal is 100% handmade gifts this year. Part of my reason is because I want to take back christmas from the big box stores and really feel the spirit of the season. The other part of my reason is to have our year end expenses under control. By making things for everyone through out the year I am spreading out the cost. If all goes well I will be continuing with this tradition next year.

DH - ~~wool beanie~~, if I still have time I may make a lap quilt, anything else will probably be bought.
Little Man - rag quilt, (crayon roll, colored pencil roll, marker roll) if time permits I will do these (we are also going to get him a big boy bed so the quilt will need to be more substantial than I was going to make.)

Dad - calendar, jam & banana bread. (Last year we did a photo mug and deck of card from Snapfish and he loved them so maybe this year the calendar will envoke the same feeling.)

Sister - handbag (3 compartment, small, black, zipper and snap)
BIL - jam & banana bread, calendar
Princess V - rag quilt
Jay Bug - rag quilt

Uncle Doug & Aunt Phyllis - Calendar, banana bread, ~~Embroidered napkins (4)~~

Dean & Ashley -banana bread, jam, calendar
Crystal - handbag

Uncle Dane - jam & banana bread, calendar

Papa John - calendar, jam & banana bread
The Mama - apron
Katie & Josh -calendar, jam & banana bread
Scarlett - tutu

Tracy - jam & banana bread, calendar
Susan - apron & hipslinger if time allows
Damon (ship to HI) - jam & banana bread, calendar
Linda - hipslinger if I have time

Matt - wool beanie & scarf, jam, banana bread
Colleen - handbag
GG - ~~Doll~~

Cory & Stacy - calendar, jam & banana bread
Logan - rag quilt
Big Tracy - calendar, jam, banana bread

Gene & Shirley - Calendar
Bill & Sue - Calendar

Extras: classy notebook, quite book, reversible journal cover, fabric diaper case, car trash bag, tote 2, tote 3, swatch portraits, eye pillow, wellness gifts, sachets, lavender crafts, scrabble tile pendant, baby projects, diaper/messenger bag, portfolio, decoupage silouettes

***disclaimer: this post may be revised often as I make decisions about different projects. I PROMISE to share the things that I complete unless they are for The Mama or any other visitors that may find out what their gift is before the season is upon us.***
***revised Sept 29*** completed project
***revised Oct 7*** changed up projects
***revised Oct 18*** completed project, reduced projects
***revised Nov 4*** completed project

Princess V is really 4!

2008-09-06T07:59:00.003-06:00

When a Princess wants a swing for her birthday and her dad walks on the wild side this is what you get...

A Giant Tree swing that attaches to 2 trees, the house and the upper level of the deck.

This is a single...
And here is a triple...
Get her up high dad!
The other kids look on with anticipation for their own turn.
One last time for the birthday girl.

Ok, it's time to open presents and sing Happy Birthday!
Mister A liked the balloons best. Or was it the Barbie paraphernalia?
Grandpa Bob makes sure that J doesn't miss out. We are equal opportunity birthday in this fam.
And they must match. Pink for her, silver for him.
I just love the looks that I get from Princess each year when she opens our gift. Priceless!

Who wants to decorate their own cupcakes?
Great decorations J. (You look so much like your mama in this picture.)
Don't forget our featured little lady...
I may never have a daughter but that is OK because I have a niece who loves to dress up. What a beautiful model!
Remember this apron? Here it is on the intended model. I was so happy when she wore it for most of her party. Strike a pose V.
A was amazed by all the little plastic parts that come with a Barbie bath. He even showed V how to use the hairbrush.

What a beautiful day with a beautiful family and friends. Thanks sister for including us in your day. Thanks V for all the photo ops.

I need a pocket!

2008-09-05T11:14:00.002-06:00

Why do I buy clothes without pockets? Because they are cute and I am really wondering if they make my butt look big rather than if there is ample room to stow my electronic life (aka cell phone), lighter, a extra paci, car keys and whatever other miscellany that ends up in a pocket.
I was tellin' The Mama about my need the other day ad she told me to send her some pockets from worn out jeans. (It's on my ever present list ma.) I can't wait to see what she does with some used jeans pockets. Interesting.
So that is a long intro to what I discovered on Craftster this morning. This neato Hipslinger. Not quite a fanny pack so my sister can't laugh at me but something sleek that would be nice to wear to the park on my walk with A or even something for around the house while picking up when it is just a bit too hot to wear an apron. I am off to print this tutorial and add it to my (not quite complete) craft notebook.