ReFabulous... it's new again.

Priorities shift.

2011-12-10T20:11:00.000-06:00

It's funny. Alllll I want to do today is snuggle this baby. Kiss these tiny toes.

two months old already!

Oh, and read books to my toddler. Color with my kindergartener. Laugh, bake, sing with the older Monkeys. Watch them play. I wish I this was all I had to do all day.

There once was a time when these simple pursuits weren't fun enough, precious enough. I resented the interruptions, the demands, the chaos. I took them all for granted, and time flew by... way too fast.

I know better now.

*sigh*

Anyway. . . .

Breastfeeding is going very well! Donovan nurses like a champ. Unfortunately, he also has silent reflux, so no peaceful nights (or even days) for us yet. This little elevated "nest" I made for him seems to help a bit:

He nurses frequently, like every 2 hours or so, due to the reflux. (I've had to nurse him twice while trying to write this short post! My one-handed typing skills stink....) Since I haven't attempted one-handed embroidery or sewing yet (nor am I likely to do so!) there isn't much to share on the creative front. Sure, I've sewn some dryer sachets and some cat toys for my customers in 10-minute spurts, but that's about it. Well, I am attempting to crochet a Christmas hat for Donovan. . .

. . . but I have no idea what I'm doing, so we'll see if it ends up as a hat or a pot holder. And if it gets completed before he's out of diapers. Meanwhile, I'll keep in mind that this too shall pass... and a maybe a little too quickly.

I had forgotten

2011-10-31T22:31:00.000-05:00

I had forgotten what it was like to nurse a baby.

I had forgotten the sweet noises they make.

I had forgotten how empowering it is to provide the perfect food for my baby.

I had forgotten how sleepy it makes me…

And how little sleep I’d get at night.

But I must remember how blessed I am to be able to nurse my little one, this Donovan Jude.

It has been 10 years since I last breastfed one of our children. (I’ve only successfully nursed two of our children -- total!) Seven years ago, I tried to nurse Monkey 6, and because of my own ignorance, lack of support, a dishonest doctor and abscessed mastitis, I couldn’t. I landed back in the hospital for a few more days, severely ill and in excruciating pain. After that horrific ordeal, I didn’t have the courage to try nursing our next two children.

However, I was determined that this time would be different. I was GOING to breastfeed this baby! Before he arrived, I watched hours of online breastfeeding videos, read blogs, asked questions. I have amazing, loving friends that support, educate and encourage me. So please excuse my giddy enthusiasm, but I am so thrilled -- thrilled! -- to be nursing our little one, and for him to be thriving! I do know and accept that things can change, and to take them a day at a time. Believe me, this is one area of my life that I do not take for granted. I also know that I’ve done all I can humanly do to be successful at breastfeeding, so I am at peace with however it goes.

But for today, I’m going to enjoy the tiny squeaks, the snuggles, the milky dribbles and the sleepy grins. . . and thank God for it tonight, since I’ll be up.

Warm & cozy toes

2011-10-21T14:08:00.000-05:00

In spite of my grand intentions, I accomplished very little sewing in the last few days before Donovan arrived. I finished one project for baby, and one project for myself -- a cozy pair of slippers!

I used this free pattern from the awesome Prudent Baby blog. Very, very easy to make, and the pay-off is huge, as these are so warm and comfy!

I used fabrics from my stash -- Amy Butler cotton for the exterior and outer sole, and a soft, inexpensive flannel for the lining. For the insole, I used two cuts of fleece (instead of batting) plus a cut-to-size foam insole I bought for $1. Cushy!

I didn't want to drive to (or ~~waddle~~ walk through) the craft store to purchase the recommended Jiffy Grip, a neato non-slip fabric used for the outer soles. I read a tip somewhere that Tulip slick paint could be applied in dots or stripes to the bottom of baby socks to make them non-slip. I figured if that could work for babies, it could probably work for me, too! ;) So once I was finished constructing the slippers, I added dots to the bottom soles, and let them dry for 24 hours before wearing. No slip, no slide.

I think these would make practical, thoughtful handmade Christmas gifts for loved ones... easy and inexpensive. My teens have all asked me to make them their own pairs, so I'll definitely be making these again. If you have any questions, leave a comment and I'll be happy to help! Have fun!

Spitting and drooling in style

2011-10-18T19:09:00.000-05:00

As usual, I put off sewing for our new Monkey until the very end. Or stated more accurately {honestly,} I ended up sewing one, and only one, project for Donovan... exactly 5 days before my scheduled c-section.

I decided to make burp cloths! You can never have too many. I also chose this project because it was so quick and easy... instant gratification, really. I used this tutorial from Homemade by Jill.

I decided to use fabrics from my stash -- mostly cotton fabrics paired with soft flannels. I'm pretty pleased with myself that I finally cut into some of these fabrics... that I've been hoarding for years (such as the Mendocino squids shown above. ==LOVE==) I used fleece in place of the batting, as that's what I had on hand.

And let me tell you -- this pattern is so forgiving! Suppose the flannel and cotton layers don't match up exactly (and mine usually didn't)... who cares! The fringe will fluff and curl up, and no one will be the wiser. The hardest part, which was actually more tedious than hard, was making the fringe. Lots and lots of little cuts. But I made all of those tiny cuts sitting on the couch, with my swollen feet propped up. A good TV-watching project!

Let's not forget my own personal drooling over Laundry Monster's adorable burp cloths, which I had mentioned in passing here. But a sweet, crafty, sneaky friend sent me a surprise package... of Laundry Monster burp cloths... in my most favorite fabrics in the whole wide world!! I love these cloths... so pretty (and soft!) in person. My photos just don't do them justice. Thank you, T!

Although I didn't accomplish much on my New Monkey Sewing To-Do List, at least my little guy can spit up and drool in style.

photo taken today -- 12 days old!

Why, hello there!

2011-10-11T10:37:00.001-05:00

I'm so pleased to introduce Mr. Donovan Jude. . . .

. . . born on October 6th, at 38 weeks via c-section. He weighed in at 9 lbs, 11 oz, and measured 21.75 inches long. Now we're both healthy, home... and very happy.

A pear and a pretty pattern

2011-09-28T15:26:00.003-05:00

I'm taking a break from whining about how tired I am and how lazy I feel... to bring you this sweet little thrift store find!

I love the bright colors of this embroidered tea towel! I'm assuming it's old, and I'm assuming it's vintage. (If it's not, someone please correct me.)

Unfortunately, as you can see, this piece isn't in very good condition. Stains and age discolored the towel, and the floss in the embroidery design is beginning to come apart. (I personally like that it appears to be used, and had quite a busy life before I found it!) I decided to trace the design, to preserve it and maybe make a fresh little pear some day. And I thought you might like it, too... so I've uploaded the pattern for you to use!

Click HERE for the pattern.

(Please let me know if you have any difficulty accessing the pattern.)

At the bottom of the pattern, I've included the original stitches used in the design. Some of the stitches are so loose, I thought the outline of the pear was actually a chain stitch, and not the stem stitch! So please feel free to use whatever stitches make your heart sing. I hope you enjoy the pattern, and share it with your stitchy friends, too!

I'll be back later this week to give you a quick update on my Baby Monkey Sewing progress. And it will be quick, as there isn't much progress. But Baby Monkey himself is making lots of progress and growing big, so I'm not a total slacker. ;-) See you soon!

37 weeks and oh-so-swollen!

The spirit is willing. . .

2011-09-17T13:10:00.007-05:00

. . . but the flesh is, well, very tired from growing another human being.

35 weeks (and a very proud and excited big brother!)

I am feeling very creative, overflowing with new ideas and designs, but my eyes literally begin to droop as soon as I sit behind my sewing machine. Or if I sit anywhere, really. Oh, and thanks to pregnancy brain, I've lost -- LOST! -- my lovely fabric to make the Weekender / diaper bag!

I'm so frustrated and broken-hearted about it! I even paid my daughter to clean / organize / scour my sewing room, and hopefully locate the missing fabric -- all to no avail! (On the bright side, my studio does look quite lovely and tidy now.) I suppose I can use some other fabric I already have in my stash (and can see from here, so I know exactly where it is). . . .

Maybe I'll use this? Red piping, natural handles? *sigh* it's just not the same....

So I have made zero headway on my sewing to-do list, and his birth date is rapidly approaching. Maybe with a nap or two or three, I just might be able to squeeze some sewing time into my weekend.

But I need a nap first.

Just for today....

2011-09-03T21:09:00.000-05:00

Every day, I wake up, and receive my gift: a new day. I may have an entire day, or I may have part of a day, or maybe just a moment, but I don't know that when I open my eyes every morning. I must make the most of this gift of one day. A blank sheet....

tiny embroidered book mark on reclaimed linen

What will you choose, just for today?

Sewing for the New Monkey

2011-08-31T14:59:00.001-05:00

As usual, I've waited until the very end of my pregnancy to begin making handmade items for the New Monkey. I'm 33 weeks now, and I'm only going to 38 weeks this time 'round. That leaves five weeks. Five. WEEKS. to get things done.

I know (and learned the hard way) that if some things don't get made or sewn, the world will not end. I probably won't even miss it. I do this for me -- as a creative outlet, and my baby and family are blessed by it. So I'm going to give it my best shot anyway, regardless of my ever-shrinking time slot!

Colors. . . .

I've chosen aqua and orange for the layette colors, plus lots of other autumn-y colors thrown in for good measure. My awesome sister (who is much more on-the-ball than her big sister) made this crib quilt for the baby a couple of months ago. . . . (click to enlarge the photos!)

This side is made from THE softest flannel ever!

sweet appliques

. . . SO cute! And absolutely perfect.

This is the fabric I will be using for the diaper bag, with perhaps aqua piping and accents. . . .

Now, for The List. . . .

These are the items I really want to make, and in order of "importance:"

diaper bag from Amy Butler's Weekender pattern
ticker tape quilt
swaddle blankets, made from loose weave muslin, just like the fancy + expensive ones
burp cloths. . . not sure what style or type I want yet (although I'm drooling over LaundryMonster's hand-dyed burp cloths... and I'll probably purchase several from her shop! LOVE this one.)
nursing pads
cloth wipes

The list isn't really toooo intimidating, other than the diaper bag. I'm already bracing for that project, as the pattern reviews I've read say it's pretty intense! I'll probably start on that first, as I know it takes the longest to sew as well, and I'd like to take my time on it.

Other than that. . . .

I've got several eco shopping totes cut out, and just waiting to be stitched together. Hopefully, those will be finished and listed in the shop over the weekend. I also have those colorful buntings (seen here) cut, sewn and pressed, and simply waiting to be assembled to the fabric bias tape. I'm not sure why I haven't finished those up, but I'm hoping to finish at least a few sets, and list those in the shop very soon.

I think that's enough to keep me busy for the next few... um, five... weeks. I'll keep you posted on my progress!

And the winner of the Get Going Greener Giveaway iiiiiisssss. . . .

2011-08-28T22:04:00.001-05:00

Ayana!

Congrats!! Please email me with your shipping info, and I'll get your prizes to you right away!

Thank you to all who entered the Get Going Greener Giveaway! I really enjoyed all of your comments, and I loved "meeting" so many new faces, and exploring new facebook and twitter friends and pages. I look forward to doing another giveaway... although this next one may have to wait until after Monkey 9 arrives. :) Maybe a holiday giveaway next time? Thanks again for playing along! Have a wonderful week!

Dreaming of babies and pumpkin

2011-08-27T22:06:00.004-05:00

In just about 6 weeks, we'll be meeting our little autumn baby! (can you believe it??) I'm already dreaming of holding him in my arms. What will he look like? Will he have red hair, too? Just who is this little one that has already stolen my heart?

I'm also dreaming of pumpkin: the color, the jack-o-lantern, oh and the food. I'm craving pumpkin cream cheese bread right now. And in all honesty, I look and feel like I've swallowed a pumpkin these days.

So I recently put together an autumn baby-inspired treasury.

(Click here to go to the full-size collection.)

I've included lovelies from the following Etsy shops...

(left to right)

Row 1:

burp cloths, by MeltonMade

organic baby quilt, by SewnNatural

little fox, by Mietjie

needle punch art, by erinf115

Row 2:

baby mobile, by theStarcraft

baby ball, by Namoo

briefcase in pumpkin, by jennyndesign

newborn cocoon, by BeautifulPhotoProps

Row 3:

fitted crib sheet, by RoosterLegs

pumpkin hat, by deusprovidebit

amber beads, by balticbamber

cat plush, by dancingintherains

Row 4:

spot and dot garland, by GFetti

calendula goat milk soap, by TheNorthwoodsGoat

vintage fabric basket, by nikkibag

poppy quilt, by moonspiritstudios

Have you made any treasuries lately? Or are you in any fabulous treasuries now? If so, please share the link in the comments so we can all visit your lovely collections!

Don't forget!

8/28: the giveaway has now ended. . . . :)

I'll be closing the Get Going Greener Giveaway in less than 24 hours! If you haven't entered yet, and you'd like to, please don't hesitate! :-) Comments will be closed tomorrow evening, and the lucky winner posted tomorrow night. See you then!

Too much inspiration

2011-08-24T13:53:00.001-05:00

~~Have you entered my Get Going Greener Giveaway yet?~~ ~~Here it is!~~ (8/28 - giveaway has ended!)

I've been wanting to decorate our bedroom for some time now. . . and as nesting kicks in, this desire is becoming almost frantic! So as I work my way slowly through this process, I wanted to share with you my starting point(s) -- my inspirations. In-progress shots to come later! (All I've done so far is clean my room. And just doing that feels like an accomplishment!)

Years ago -- like, 11 years ago -- when we were renters, I came across this dreamy magazine spread in an edition of Country Living . . .

you can enlarge the photo by clicking on it

I was immediately drawn to its warm, welcoming feel. I love the colors, the natural elements. I do wish I had saved the other pages of the spread, but I think it's pretty amazing that I've held on to this one page for eleven years!

But then, last year, I came across this ridiculously kitschy painting at the thrift store. . . .

this photo really doesn't do it justice. . . it's quite pretty in person

I fell in love with its simplicity, and its cool, relaxing colors appealed to me. It feels calming, and at this point in my life, I need calming. ;) Now I also want to design our room around that painting.

So -- now I have two conflicting / contrasting color families. Should we go warm, or cool? Can the two be joined together, with happy results? I'd like to have the cozy feeling of the first photo, with the natural and rustic touches joined with the cooler, calming palette of the painting.

So here's what I'm thinking. . .
warms:

pale butter yellow walls (they're already this color -- and I really don't want to change this)
wood floors and furniture (existing, and in a warm, aged oak stain)
natural elements such as storage baskets, decor
maybe some rustic elements thrown in for good measure
an absurd pop of red (our microsuede duvet)

cools:

curtains in the above fabric, matching the painting's colors (The print reminds me of leaves, too!)
accent pieces such as artwork, a large framed mirror
vintage linens

So -- what do you think? Can I make it work? Or is this a decorating train wreck waiting to happen? Any design tips for a decorating novice like me? I'd love to hear your thoughts!

(PS... Many thanks to all who have entered the giveaway so far! I'm blown away by your kind words and your fantastic comments. Your going greener ideas are excellent!)

Get Going... Greener! Giveaway!

2011-08-18T12:50:00.006-05:00

~~ Giveaway has now ended! Many thanks to all who entered! ~~

We're all busy. And with school and aaallll the autumn activities revving up, it's about to get even busier.

I want to make it a little bit easier on you during this hectic season. And why not be a bit greener at the same time? So I'm giving away a whole set of going-greener items to help you out!

First up: this fresh new tote bag, from my new fresh line!

made from soft, sturdy osnaburg and sweet vintage linens

. . . perfect for shopping, toting books, hauling baby gear. Did I mention it's soft, sturdy, washable?

And I'm also giving away my newest item -- not even in the shop yet! -- stylish, reusable grocery bags! I've wanted to offer these for-ev-er, and I'm so excited to finally be able to do so!

look! They roll up teeny-tiny!

I have to say we use these in our family all the time. Shopping? Well, yes -- when I remember. (So not as often as we should.) But picnics? Day trips? Zoo trips? Yes, yes, and yes! These are so sturdy, and so deceptively roomy, you'll be amazed at how versatile and practical these are. (Again, washable!)

And I'm also giving away a set of lovely mini-sachets (the exact fabrics will be a surprise!). . .

Tuck them into stinky gym bags or back packs, car trunks or glove boxes, coat closets. . . anywhere you'd like the fresh, calming scent of lavender to great you! Handmade from reclaimed fabrics and fabric scraps with all-natural lavender. No chemicals, no fillers, no additives.

So, how do you win ALL FOUR of these eco-friendly items to start the new autumn season? Here are the details:

One mandatory entry -- just leave a comment! I love hearing from you! Why not share your favorite going-greener-in-a-busy-life tip with us?

Additional entries -- and please leave a separate comment here, telling me of each additional entry!

Tweet about this giveaway
Tweet your favorite item from my shop
Follow @sew_refabulous (me!) on twitter. I follow back! :)
Post a link to this giveaway on facebook
Friend refabulous on facebook*
Follow my blog* (click over on the bottom left side....)

*If you're already a facebook friend or blog follower, just leave a comment and let me know! (and thank you!)

My international readers are welcome to join in the giveaway, too!

And that's it! I'll close comments on Sunday, August 28th -- and let Random.org pick the lucky winner! Good luck! :-)

~ Comments are now CLOSED, and the giveaway has ended! ~

wait for iiiitttt.....

2011-08-17T21:08:00.000-05:00

The giveaway prizes are finally, finally finished! Just waiting on tomorrow's lovely morning sunshine so I can snap some nice pics. Please check back tomorrow, as I'll be posting the pics and details around noon! See you then! :)

I blame Pregnancy Brain.

2011-08-06T17:11:00.001-05:00

When I said the giveaway was ready to begin, I had forgotten about my children's most anticipated event, aside from Christmas, was to also begin that very evening: Rock the Desert.

This awesome artist is Jeremy Simons, a Christian worship painter. AMAZING to watch him work!

(I apologize for not crediting this artist sooner. His name was unknown to me at the time of original posting.)

DecembeRadio

Monkey 1 getting an autograph from DecembeRadio's lead singer

David Crowder Band

Yep. Three days of really, really loud music, dust clouds and triple-digit temps. But also three days of smiling teens (how often do you see those these days?) and fellowship. And the music is [mostly] really good!

So I blame my almost-30-weeks-gestation-brain on forgetting, and trying to do more than one thing at a time. (Sheesh -- even ONE thing at a time is a challenge!) Please bear with me, and I will definitely make the giveaway worth the wait. Let's say... Monday. Monday will be THE DAY. See you then!

f r e s h new eco-friendly line

2011-08-04T13:19:00.001-05:00

It's finally here -- my fresh, new line! I'm so excited to get to share it with you now!

new market totes. . . .

squishy-soft lavender pillow sachets. . . .

even something for the kitties! (complete with organic catnip). . . .

This line was inspired by. . .
   summer and the outdoors and even this heat wave: the sun-washed colors: cool on the skin, soft in the hands.
   by my family: sun-kissed freckles, romps through dried grasses, dips in the pool in the hot evenings.
   by picnics:  sturdy, roomy and practical, the totes are ready for trips out and about!
   by the recession: again, sturdy and practical, yet pretty and unique. Use again and again, for years to come.  Reasonably and fairly priced for snug budgets.

I'll be adding just a few more items to this collection. More totes, more sachets (balsam!) and I'm working on a new grocery tote, too. This will be a very limited-time edition, due to me getting such a late start on it. Really, I'm already late getting started on fall, back-to-school and winter lines! But I'm just going to do what I can, and do my best at that. :)

Besides, growing a baby boy these days is taking up a lot of my energy. Can you believe he'll be here in 9 weeks? NINE WEEKS!! Now that's exciting, too!

Pippi update. . . .

Still saving up for her surgery. Getting closer, though! She seems to forget about her leg most of the time, until she tries to walk on it (OUCH) but she has adapted as well as can be expected. (Please note that all cat toy sales will go towards paying for her surgery.)

And that giveaway. . . .

I didn't forget! I'll announce details tomorrow, so I'll see you then!

We're getting closer, my friends

2011-07-13T11:26:00.001-05:00

We're almost there. . . 52 (fifty-two!) mice have been purchased so far to help Naughty Pippi. Can you believe it?

I can. You guys are awesome. Many, many thanks.

And the giveaway is getting closer, too. . . . more soon. . . .

Sometimes you just need a fresh start.

2011-07-07T20:38:00.000-05:00

Like a new creative direction, a new line, to jumpstart the creative juices. I haven't done anything new in the design or sewing arena for a very, very long time, so I decided to try something new. I've had a little idea buzzing away in my brain for months and months, and now, finally, I'm setting it free. Here's a sneaky peek at what I've been playing with lately. . . .

This line was inspired by summer. by picnics. by the outdoors. by the recession. (what?) by this heat wave. by my family. OH -- and I'll be ready to launch very soon, and that also means that the giveaway is getting closer and closer! Hooray!

Some more shop news. . . .

It's time for my Christmas in July special! I'm offering FREE domestic shipping, 50% off international shipping on any order, large or small, new or repeat! Just use the coupon code JULYCHRISTMAS2011 at check out, and you're good to go. (International shipping discount will be refunded via Paypal.) :) Please feel free to share the code with friends and family if you like!

And random stuff. . . .

We've been in a drought for almost a full year now -- a whopping 0.16" of rain so far this year. Yep, that's sixteen hundredths of an inch of rain.

Here's our front pasture (and my handsome hubby) late last spring...

... and here's the front pasture today.

And then there's the heat -- weeks of triple-digit temps. I know we live in the desert and all, but this is severe, even for this arid region. Wild fires, dust, no green. It makes me sad. It's almost like a cabin-fever-type sadness, only I can't go outside because it's so hot. Soooo, I'm keeping myself busy indoors, and working on my new line is both uplifting and refreshing, mentally and emotionally. But I sure wouldn't mind any prayers for rain if you would like to offer any for us! ;-)

It's almost time. . .

2011-07-01T21:08:00.000-05:00

. . . for a giveaway! Yes, I said it! So now I have to do it, right? ;) Actually, tonight I'm working on said giveaway, so you guys can hold me to it. Sorry, the giveaway won't be the fab clock pictured above. I just thought that the photo went well with my title and all.... ;-) But can you believe that clock??? (Which happens to be a 1946-1950 bakelite GE clock timer.) So completely awesome. And it works, too! Oh, and the kicker? Two. bucks. The thrift store is loving me these days.

Aaaand a Pippi Update. . . .

I had forgotten that I had her x-rays uploaded, so I thought I'd share them now. You can see where her right leg is broken, just above the joint. Even after almost a month of splinting, no healing occured. :(

In spite of that, she's still doing OK. Hobbling, etc. Same. Well, other than her attitude. That has markedly improved! I'm not sure what all happened on that fateful 2-day bender, but she's almost nice to me now.

My friend Tricia, from Handmade Whimzy, ordered a little catnip mouse from my shop for her kitty, Sparky. SO cute:

*Sparky approved*

You can see more happy pics of Sparky enjoying her new mouse over on Tricia's blog. Tricia has also written a very sweet blog post for Pippi, so please drop by and give it a read. Thanks, Tricia!

There's also a facebook event (!!!) featuring our Naughty Pippi, started by one of my dear customers, to help spread Pippi's story. If you get a chance, please click on over and tell your friends about it. Thank you, Destiny!

And thank you ALL for your kind words, shared stories, and of course for your generous purchases of the special catnip mice. Check out that progress over on the left-hand side! WOW! You guys are awesome. <3

If you haven't read Pippi's story yet, you can find it here.

ANYway... giveaway details coming very, very soon! See you soon!

CRAZY-good embroidery

2011-06-29T09:56:00.001-05:00

If you're looking for the Story of Naughty Pippi, you can find it here. :)

As I mentioned yesterday, I recently participated in one, final monochromatic embroidery Hoopla Swap. And I am completely. blown. away.

Seriously. How beautiful is this?!? My partner, Anya Kase, has crazy-good embroidery skills. Be sure to click on the photos, so you can see all the amazing details!

My hoop to her. . .

. . . doesn't even compare. :-/ But she loves it, so that's all that matters. I have to admit that I did not like stitching in one color. I like color, LOVE color -- and lots of it, so this was a real challenge for me. But I am glad I tried it. . . it definitely stretched my wimpy creative muscle a bit!

And that wraps up all of my swaps. Whew. Now, I'm working on more little catnip mice, a new tote design, and a large batch of buntings. (YESSSS!) So I'd better get back to work. . . . I'll see you very soon! :)

Craft swaps: Good-bye for now

2011-06-28T10:43:00.000-05:00

If you're looking for the Story of Naughty Pippi, you can find it here. :)

I'm taking a break from craft swaps. Maybe a permanent one. I'm not sure yet. But definitely a long one. I have so many projects for my family that I'd love to complete, ooohhh, sometime this decade, so I feel that I need to focus more on them now. Plus, that little Baby Boy Monkey of ours is coming in just a few short months, so I'd better get crackin' on his layette!

My last Craftster swaps were the Baby Onesie Swap, the Pregnant Mama and Newborn Swap, and another fun embroidery Hoopla Swap. (You can see my posts on the Baby Onesie Swaps here, here and here.)

As for the Pregnant Mama and Newborn Swap. . . .

I received these cute items from my sweet partner, knittychick:

Clockwise, starting top left: a nomad swaddler -- genius!; a reversible nursing cover, complete with pockets; hand-painted burp cloths; a nursing station caddy. All of these items are crafted in colors I LOVE, and are so cute and practical. They'll be getting a lot of use when Baby Monkey arrives! (You can see a picture of the nomad swaddler in use here, if you'd like.)

And I sent my partner these. . . .

Wait. Let me please apologize in advance for the crummy photos. I finished the last item (the diaper bag) at 3 am, and then went ahead and packed everything up in a hurry so I could get some sleep. Sooo, the photos. Not good. But you'll get the general idea. . . .

Top: a soft ABC animal book. I embroidered a little something on each page, to add a tactile element to it.
Center: screen printed onesie.
Bottom left: large swaddling blanket, with an embroidered sea turtle in the corner.
Bottom right: gathered clutch, lined with rip-stop for moisture resistance.

And the big grandaddy item: a 2-in-1 (2-and-1?) diaper bag!

photos by knittychick

First: I did not invent this bag. I was inspired by this bag, which was on my swap partner's wist. I made a bag I could handle making, that would serve the same basic purpose. The purpose being that each bag could be packed for a separate child, and when the children were together, the bags were snapped to each other and carried as one bag. When the children were apart, the bags came apart, too.

This project was actually pretty simple to make. I made 2 identically-sized totes with adjustable straps. I winged the bag size -- just tried to imagine a good, large, practical diaper bag size. I attached a tab with strong magnetic snaps to each tote, so they could snap to each other. Lots of pockets on the inside, with a large slide pocket on the outside, too.

photo by knittychick

Again, please excuse the photos: 3 am. Messy workspace. You know. But I'm so happy that my partner loves the bag, and is already using it. :) (You can see more photos of this swap package, taken by my swap partner, here.)

And that Hoopla Swap?
Pictures tomorrow. Prepare to be blown away.

The Story of Naughty Pippi

2011-06-27T12:59:00.000-05:00

Pippi Cat: a very naughty cat, and much beloved by her large family anyway.

Pippi longed for adventure, action, romance. Someone left the back door ajar, and she saw her chance to escape the confines of quiet domestic living. So escape she did.

After a two-day bender of running wild in the west Texas countryside, Pippi limped home, downcast and ashamed. Her family was overjoyed to see her again, but alarmed at her rough and weakened condition. A trip to the emergency vet determined that the naughty Pippi had been struck by a car, permanently dislocating her pelvis and severely breaking her leg.

What to do? What to do? Our vet recommends amputation now that she is healthy enough for surgery. "Tripod" cats rebound quickly and adapt fully to this type of surgery. The other alternative. . . well, we didn't consider it. So for now, she hops and hobbles and we wait and save. . . .

Pippi enjoying the aroma of catnip mouse "cores"

Pippi is currently cast-free, as restraining the leg at this point would cause more harm than good. Most days she drags her leg, but sometimes forgets and tries to put weight on it. Quite pitiful to watch. :( We have almost half the cost of surgery saved up. . . and could really use your help with our little project. . . .

The Help for Naughty Pippi project. . . .

I've been sewing up a large batch of special edition catnip mice for my Etsy shop. Each mouse is cut from a unique fabric, never to be repeated. Some fabrics are vintage, some are designer, and all are from my insanely massive stash. The proceeds from the sale of these mice go directly to help offset the cost of Pippi's surgery.

available here

So my plea to you is to simply help spread the Story of Naughty Pippi to your kitty-loving family and friends. Or, if you happen to be in the market for a new little mouse yourself, please consider purchasing one of my catnip mice. Either way, you'll also have the warm fuzzy feeling of helping our kitty transition into a pain-free life, and of blessing our family to boot.

Pippi today. (Her broken leg is the hind leg on top.)

No kitty of your own? Consider donating a Special Edition mouse (or two) to a cat rescue or to your local humane society. Remember the kitties of friends, family and coworkers. . . for a surprise, or shop early for Christmas. Maybe adopt a mouse to keep you company at work or home. (They won't move your cheese.)

available here

Any help you can offer would be so greatly appreciated by our family. . . and especially by Naughty Pippi. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask in the comments below, or convo me via Etsy. I'll be adding more mice to my shop every day this week, starting tomorrow, so be sure to check back often to see the newest designs. Also, I'm posting our savings progress on the little thermometer-widget-thing over on the left-hand side, so you can follow along, too, if you like. Thanks again, and I'll be updating Pippi's progress as time goes on. :)

Shirt Season, Part 2!

2011-05-27T23:19:00.000-05:00

Who's ready for another round of embellished baby shirts? Meeeeeee! Here are the lovely tiny onesies I received from my sweet partner in the Craftster Baby Onesie Swap:

You can click on the photo to enlarge it to see all the cutey-cute details. My personal fave is the Texas shirt = adorable. Oh, and the little brood of 9 chicks! I can't wait to see littlest Monkey in them all. Which is your favorite?

And these are the shirts I sent my partner:

More screen printing (FUN!), stencils and lots of applique. Looove the applique. If you have any questions about the shirts (techniques, products, etc.) please don't hesitate to leave your question in the comments... I'd be happy to answer any questions you have! :-)

I'll have just one more shirt post for this particular Shirt Season, and then we'll be done 'til autumn. (I'm still waiting to receive one package, but it's currently in the creation stage, so that post will be a while in coming.)

What else am I up to these days?

Most days, in between power naps and homeschooling, I do some sewing. Or a lot of sewing. Depends on how sleepy or swollen (already!) I am. I suppose my old {feeling} body + this new pregnancy is taking most of my energy these days. Well, that and my 8 other amazing Monkeys. And a very, very naughty cat. But that post will come another day. . . soon.

It's Shirt Season again! Part 1

2011-05-17T13:13:00.000-05:00

First, let me say "thank you" for all the prayers, kind words and well-wishes for our newest little Monkey and me! At 18 weeks, baby and I are doing very well, and are even on the "regular" prenatal schedule now! We don't know yet if we're having a boy or a girl (ultrasound in 2 weeks), although I have to admit I'll be a little skeptical of any prediction since the whole Ella / Owen debacle. My fatigue and nausea has greatly subsided, so I should be blogging more, working more, sewing more for the next few months!

About those shirts. . . .

Once again, I organized and swapped in the Baby Onesie Swap over on Craftster. I used my favorite embellishing techniques of applique, reverse applique, embroidery and stencils, plus a new one: screen printing! (I used StencilPro screens. AMAZING.) I'm loving this new technique. . . .

And another screen print + reverse applique. . . .

Rough applique + stencil. . . .

Rough applique. . . .

Felt applique + embroidery (Boy Girl Party inspired). . . .

As always, I had so much fun making the shirts for this swap. (I'll post the next five shirts once my other partner receives them!) I just received a package of sweet little onesies for the new Monkey yesterday, so I'll post those soon. Until then, I hope your days are peaceful and blessed! :)

Hiking, celebrating and BAKING

2011-04-06T11:22:00.000-05:00

Another month has flown by, and my neglected blog is getting a bit dusty! I'm not sure why I haven't blogged in awhile. I just. . . forgot? Well, we have been a little busy, and a little crafty. (pssst.... I update more regularly over on facebook... I hope you'll join us there, too!)

A little trip to Dinosaur Valley. . . .

view of the river from the hiking trail

Another trip to Monahans Sandhills (one of my most favorite places). . . .

Celebrating. . . .

Crafting for more celebrating. . . .

coming soon to my shop!

Baking for yet more celebrating. . . .

mmmm... chocolate chip cheesecake!

Oh, and some really fabulous baking. . . .

YES! We're expecting again! We're super-excited! This sweet little babe is due in October, and so far, baby and I are healthy. This pregnancy has been very different from my previous two (both of which, sadly, ended in miscarriage) so I am hopeful that I will actually get to meet this little one in October. And for today, I am grateful for each moment I have with this baby. Please remember us in your prayers. :)

OH, and you know this means lots of baby crafting coming up in the near future!

Like sprinkles on a cupcake. . .

2011-03-11T16:17:00.000-06:00

In my recent thrift store trips, I've come across some vintage linens with crochet (or tatted?) trim. I love them. I think it's because someone took the time to add a handmade, pretty touch to something that was already pretty. I think of it like sprinkles on a chocolate cupcake. The cupcake is already yummy, but sprinkles add that special touch that didn't really have to be added -- but you're happy they're there. Here are two of my recent finds, awaiting a good Borax soak. . . .

an embroidered table cloth with a crocheted trim

lovely!

a very delicate pillowcase

And then I remembered coming across a lovely tutorial on how to make a pillow case with a crocheted scallop edge. SO gorgeous. I wanted that pillow shown in the tutorial. That. exact. pillow.

So I set out to make it myself! I ordered the fabric from two Etsy shops, The Fabric Farm and Hoot Fabrics, and purchased the yarn from our local Michaels. I gleaned some very, very basic crochet lessons while watching youtube how-to-crochet videos with my Monkey 1 {she made herself a lovely hat!} and gave it a whirl. . . .

The most difficult part of this tutorial is making the blanket stitch foundation for the crocheted trim. You know I love the blanket stitch, but working with several feet of yarn was quite tricky and sometimes tangle-y! I also learned {the hard way} not to make the foundation stitches so tight. ARGH!

But in the end, I think it turned out quite lovely!

I can't wait to make more, and bust through some of my enormous stash. My Monkeys are already making requests. Time to buy more yarn!

Heart-stirrings

2011-02-28T15:46:00.000-06:00

My heart has been restless these last few weeks. Something in my creative life is. . . off. Missing.

I began praying for direction, but my heart wasn't truly open. I was looking in the wrong direction for my answers.

But my answer has come, loud and clear. Actually, the answer was here, all along, and I just didn't see it. Now things are so clear, and I'm truly joyful and excited about the prospects. . . they feel exactly right.

above print from one of my favorite shops, the Wheatfield

What does this all mean? I'll be working on some new, top-secret projects, and I'll share more details with you in the next few months. At that time, I plan to open a new Etsy shop -- a complete departure from ReFabulous.

ReFabulous isn't going anywhere for now. ReFabulous has blessed me and my family tremendously, and its time is not yet over. Besides, I still have an enormous stash to bust. ;-)

My clean sewing room! My birthday gift to myself.

So I hope you'll join me on this wonderfully scary journey, and say a prayer or two for me, too. This should be interesting, to say the least.

A tiny bit of stitching

2011-02-20T22:03:00.000-06:00

This is more of a catch-up post, as I forgot to show you these tiny little embroideries -- all the way back from early January! These were done for another Embroidery Hoopla Swap, on Craftster. My partner in this round is the lovely savage pixie, who made me this adorably tiny Texas-themed hoop!

Just a mere 4" in diameter, and such beautiful stitching! And look where the tiny heart is. . . home sweet home. :)

I made my partner this teensy seahorse in a 3" hoop. . . .

It was my first time stitching on dark fabric, and I loved it. (And she loved it, too!) It was one of the quickest pieces I'd ever stitched -- maybe 3 hours? -- and all but the outline were free-handed. So fun!

Unfortunately, I'll be sitting out of the embroidery swaps for awhile, just for time and sanity's sake. (Don't worry - the Baby Onesie Swap is still slated for next month!) But I can't quite keep away from the needle and floss completely. . . .

Another tiny 3" hoop, stitched up while watching an episode of The Office. This one's a little gift for a very special gal. I'm so loving the notebook-printed linen, aren't you? What have you been stitching / sewing/ crafting lately?

Lemony lotion

2011-02-16T13:00:00.000-06:00

One thing I quickly learned after moving out here to the desert is that the air is really dry. Really, really dry. My skin and sinuses protest daily at this humidity-deprived climate! I remembered that I had seen a few recipes for homemade lotion, so we decided to try a simple one.

This is the recipe we used. And here are a few reflections on this simple recipe:

SUPER easy to make. It took like, oh, 3 minutes to make the lotion. What took the longest? Letting the lotion set up overnight.
We made it lemonade-scented -- so yummy! We used lemon EO, coconut fragrance oil and a little vanilla fragrance oil for extra sweetness.
It's definitely a light, summer-y lotion. . . not the heavy-duty skin cream that we really needed during this dry winter season.
I'll add some cocoa butter to my next batch.
We didn't use a preservative, so we store the lotions in the fridge. I imagine this would be quite refreshing in the summertime!

I hope you'll give it a try! And please let me know of any tips, suggestions or ideas you have for our next batch... I'd love to hear your ideas!

Why, hello there!

2011-02-14T11:33:00.000-06:00

I wish you and yours a very Happy Valentine's Day!

(This yummy biscuit recipe can be found here.)

Goodness, I've missed you guys! But, honestly, I've also enjoyed my little break from blogging and such. Now I look forward to jumping back in with more regular posts -- starting later this week! Enjoy your day, and let's talk again real soon. :)

Quick! A giveaway!

2011-01-05T13:30:00.000-06:00

The lovely folks over at ReadyMade are giving away a couple of my little catnip mice! But hurry -- the contest ends tomorrow. Click here to enter the giveaway (and to see which mice are up for grabs!)

I totally owe you a catch-up post. . . and a ReFabulous giveaway! I had wanted to have a giveaway to celebrate the ReadyMade feature, but due to the subsequent (awesome) flood of catnip mice orders, I just couldn't swing it. So, soon, soon, we will celebrate.

Stay tuned! (And go enter the contest!) :-)

Where have I been?

2010-12-15T11:18:00.001-06:00

Just stitching away, away, away, in my little sewing room. . . because of this:

So super-excited! And it just didn't seem real until I actually held the magazine in my hands! This has been such a fun experience, and I'm really grateful for this opportunity. The best part? I've "met" so many awesome people. I love the funny or sad or bittersweet stories of furry companions that some have shared with me. When I'm up 'til 3 a.m. stuffing catnip into tiny mice, those stories remind me that there's a human being behind every cat, and these little toys bring them joy, too. And that makes me happy. :-) Thanks, ReadyMade!

But we are attempting to do other stuff, too. . . .

Like tree-tipping.

Truffle-making.

Village-building.

Family-photo-taking.

And there's still so much to do, but I can't worry about that right now. I'll just take and enjoy each and every day as it comes, and that's enough for me.

More shirt love? Yes, please!

2010-12-04T13:14:00.001-06:00

"Cooking College"-bound!

The lovely swap angel, Calabaza, sent these sweet shirts to Monkey 7 last week. He is DELIGHTED, so we had to do a quickie photo shoot. . . .

As you can see, Monkey 7 is quite pleased with his swap goodies. I love the smiles they bring to his sweet face. Thank you, Calabaza!

I tried to do this blog post over a week ago, but my photos wouldn't upload. (Again.) Maybe one day, I'll pony up the money for a real (read: not free) blog. I'll think about it.....

Until then, I'll just fight it out with Blogger, and try to be more consistent with my posting. I've been making gobs of little catnip mice lately, and honestly, not much else. I'm working on a giveaway, hopefully for this upcoming week. Stay tuned.... more details soon! Have a lovely weekend!

A few news. . . .

2010-11-21T14:10:00.000-06:00

New tote. . . .

New photos for my mini sachets. . . . (finally!)

New balsam sachets. . . . and they smell sooo good. We can't have a real tree (due to allergies) but these sure make up for that.

New customer for the tooth fairy! (And during dinner, of course. Ew.)

I'm working on another new tote today, and have a few more ornament designs in the works. OH -- and BIG news coming soon..... so big, it may be time for a giveaway. It's been a long time since we've had one, hasn't it? Any suggestions for a prize? :)

Gratitude

2010-11-20T11:08:00.000-06:00

I'm working extra-hard on this one. We've had a tough year. Moving, loss, stress, illness, hospitals. I tend to throw myself great big pity parties, but I've recently learned that that only brings me more misery. I'm trying to focus on my blessings in everyday life, and there are multitudes. (And not just because it's Thanksgiving!) ;) Being a tactile person, it helps me to write things down, and these writings also serve as daily reminders of my many, many blessings.

My children could certainly benefit from reflecting on their blessings as well, so we've created our family Gratitude Tree. (I was inspired by this post.) Seeing our tree grow makes my heart warm with joy. . . .

This morning, we made a sweet paper gratitude chain. . . .

I know the staples don't look so lovely, but when working with eight Monkeys, simplicity and speed are key to our family projects. And this project was definitely simple and quick. We sat at the dining room table, talking about all the things we were thankful for, while we printed, cut and stapled the chains. Decorations AND family time! You can get the free download from Silverbox Creative Studio, and there are a few other neat suggestions for this project on their website.

Does your family have a project in which you celebrate and express gratitude? I'd love to hear about your creative ideas and traditions!

Hoopy goodness

2010-11-19T11:04:00.003-06:00

While I love the baby shirt swaps, I think I've found a new obsession: hoop embroidery! I've participated in two rounds so far, and have received such lovely hoops! In this second round, I received a beautifully sweet and simple poppy. . . .

My partner is an amazing artist. (Please drop by her colorfully delightful blog!) The poppy has a special, private meaning for me, and the colors and design are so just. . . me. I love it!

I love bright colors, but I don't seem to work with them as much as I'd like. (I wonder why?) But I stepped out of my comfort zone, and thoroughly enjoyed stitching this little 4" hoop for her. I used the same split stitch fill that I used on the monarch butterfly. . . .

(inspired by this.)

And in the previous round, I received this sweet portrait of a girl . . .

My partner was new to embroidery, and I think she did a fantastic job -- and that makes it all the more special to me.

There's another hoop embroidery swap next month, and the hoop size is just a wee 2.5"! But I think I'd better sit this one out. For real. I mean it. Christmas-time crafting is about to get caRAAzyy.

Shirt insanity!

2010-11-18T11:03:00.000-06:00

You knew it was coming. Yep: the Week of Baby Onesies Swap on Craftster! It's my favorite swap, and I always look forward to it. I love trying new techniques, improving old ones, and challenging myself to try new designs. I crafted for larger kiddos this round, so no actual baby onesies. (The girl shirts are for a private swap, and for an older child.)

The accomplishment I'm most proud of this round? Conquering my fear of sewing knits! I made long sleeves for several of these shirts, using thrifted shirts for the fabric. (This striped fabric was once a cute Gap top!) I didn't even break out my serger, and they all turned out great! Most of the girl shirts were inspired by themes, shirts or other items on my partner's wists. . . .

And these are for a sweet little boy. . . .

So I'm about all crafted out, on the swap-front. I think I'm going to take a break from swapping. . . at least until the springtime shirt swap rolls around. :)

OK -- that's not entirely true. More swap goodies tomorrow....

Too cute to be spooky

2010-11-03T11:56:00.003-05:00

I'm still here! Really! And I am doing much better these days. I even tried blogging yesterday, and again this morning, but something was wonky with uploading photos. And what good is a blog post without some photos? (And as soon as I type that, suddenly pictures upload. Hm.)

(Some of the Monkeys in their homemade Halloween costumes. . . the older kids made their own again this year! There's Flo, the Progressive girl, two singers from Skillet, and a couple of fiesty ninjas. And a peek at a kitty cat's left foot.)

The post-that-wasn't-meant-to-be was written about tiny houses, and my obsession with them. . . fabric ones, paper ones, wood ones. I even joined the Tiny House Swap again, so I could make a tiny house! (And remember - these houses had to measure less than 4" x 4" x 4".) But first, let me show you the sweet little house I received from my partner, sazzra. . . .

It even has a tiny light inside, and it flickers through the "stained glass" windows! So cute. But I think my favorite parts are the paperclay pumpkins in the moss!

I sent my partner a knock-off of the Amityville house. It's made mostly from paper and plastic packaging scraps. . . .

The house is wrapped in text from the book.

Each room has a secret -- a scene or symbol from the book or movie. But the neat thing about that is only the beholder can see into a room, and only with the aid of a mini flashlight. I hear it's frustrating my poor partner to no end, who wants to photograph each room (sorry!) but that was really by design. (Not to frustrate, just the one-looker part.) ;) I hear there's a winter/Christmas edition of the swap coming up. . . . I can't wait!

Lost and found

2010-10-23T11:41:00.002-05:00

Lost. . . .

I had big plans, big ideas. I opened another Etsy shop, wanting to fill it with hand-embroidered felt goodies. I would focus on badges, brooches and teeny banners to share and give to others -- an award and merit badge sort of theme.

Buuut, I lost momentum. I lost the desire. And I really just don't have the time. :(

So I want to share some merit badges I had made for a swap (which actually inspired me to open the shop in the first place!) They're about 2.5" to 3" in size. . . . lots of fun, teeny tiny stitches!

I couldn't stop smiling as I stitched these. These were silly or real awards, for things the swap partner felt they deserved, or wanted to earn. I imagined the smiles on their faces when they opened their packages. . . .

. . . and I thought, "Everybody deserves a badge for something." Wouldn't it be nice to surprise someone with one? Or even to give a little happy gift to yourself for something achieved, dreamt of or imagined? I want to make badges for everyone. :)

And found. . . .

An AMAZING, local thrift store! Oh, yes, I am overjoyed! I found over twenty-five vintage pillowcases on their shelves. Don't locals know what a treasure these are?

And these are just a sampling of the ones that came home with me. . . .

I can hardly wait to go back and ~~raid their shelves~~ hunt for more treasures!

A very sincere thank you for the comments and emails I received last week regarding our losses. They were exactly what I needed, and I appreciate your kindness and prayers. Thank you!

I am not OK

2010-10-16T00:04:00.000-05:00

I am not OK.

If you asked, I would probably tell you that I am. But that would be a lie.

You see, I am not OK with losing my two babies. I think of them, miss them, every single day. But their deaths became a catalyst for radical, unforeseeable change in me. Change both terrible and beneficial.

Over the past 20 years, I carefully fabricated a very secure-looking façade. I imagined it to be a happy, got-it-together façade. I believed it.

When our ninth child died last year, my façade crumbled. An indescribable, unimaginable pain ripped through my heart, my mind, my body, my soul, leaving me mangled and raw. Everything I thought I believed, thought I knew, disintegrated in a single moment. Reality turned on its head. A secret flood gate was opened and suddenly, pain from years past, cautiously packed, stuffed, suffocated away, came pouring out. Rushing out. I couldn’t stop the flood.

I am helpless.

Pain has been my constant companion since July of 2009. My mind weeps, my heart aches, my arms long, my body rebels. I hate this pain, and beg for it to end. I want to “move on,” but I am stuck. Lost. The past pains pile onto the new pains… burying me, suffocating me.

But, recently -- and I can't explain it, so I won't try -- strangely, miraculously really, I begin to see a glimmer of hope. Maybe I will be OK. Although I’m not now, perhaps I can be. I believe it.

God found me, crumpled and dying. God is now leading me on a path, unfamiliar, frightening. I am learning to trust for the very first time in my life. I flail and stumble, again and again. He picks me up, again and again. My trust flounders, but His strength never fails.

I have to reevaluate my life, every day. I am taught painful, valuable lessons, every day. I’m relearning gratitude. I’m practicing patience, and usually failing, but usually getting back up to at least practice again. I’d like to work on forgiveness, and temperance, and humility next, but I’d better take it slow, a tiny step at a time.

I pray this is a path of healing for me. Of old wounds and new. Of broken hearts and bonds.

I also pray that anyone reading this, who identifies with these words in any small way. . . that you may find your own path of radical change, terrifying trust, miraculous healing. You are in my prayers. Please keep me in yours.

We’ll be OK, someday.

(Candles pictured above were lit tonight for Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day. . . . in memory of my son Justus and my daughter Catherine, for my nephew Cole and my niece Hope, for Mary Emma, and for other precious babes. We love and miss you all.)

UbaFest! Plus a mini-tutorial

2010-10-11T00:07:00.002-05:00

Last night's UbaFest was a success!

What is UbaFest, you ask? Only my dear Monkey 1's sixteenth birthday party. . . the campfire edition! Which means: a relatively inexpensive, simple, mostly handmade shindig, with the main focus on family and just being together. We feasted on tender smoked brisket (slowly cooked by my mother-in-law) and homemade potato salad, s'mores and red velvet cake balls. Plus {unfortunately} lots of junk food. We played lots of silly games, and chatted and laughed 'til we cried. Simple, but so much fun.

Since this was a campfire theme, there was an option for camping (in the back yard) for those who were brave enough or just didn't care to get a good night's sleep. . . .

(The tents were filled to capacity -- many thanks to all the good sports!) :)

Now, for the crafty stuff. . . .

Monkey 1 and her sisters made the "UbaFest" bunting, as well as the tissue paper poms! I love that we can use the buntings year after year (totally inspired by Erin's post,) and after the party, the girls claimed the poms to decorate their rooms.

This next project was a late-night, last-minute idea, and I totally love how it turned out. I used:

my hair flower tutorial
cheapo $1.50/yard polyester fabric (abandoned from a previous failed craft project)
cotton twill tape (thrift store score: 25 cents for 10 yards)
acrylic felt scraps
sewing machine + thread

And I came up with poppy garlands!

The largest poppies are about 5" in diameter. I stitched the largest (bottom) petal to cotton twill tape from edge to edge (stopping about 1/4" from the singed edge). This kept the flower from flopping downward or sagging. I then tacked the next layers of petals to that large petal base with a few zigzag stitches in the center. And to finish with the black centers, I stitched a big X across the diameter of the black felt circles. I made this batch of garlands in ~3-foot strands, to hang vertically, but it would be so easy to link them to each other to drape and hang horizontally, too. And that's it! Super-easy, right?

I just love how these all seemed to glow!

Also glowing. . .

and particularly my beautiful not-so-baby girl. :)

Success!

Stitching away the hours. . . .

2010-10-06T21:06:00.001-05:00

I can't believe how long it's been since I last posted! I'm so sorry. . . . I wanted to post, really, but I just didn't have anything interesting to show or tell or share. Seriously, no one wants to hear "oh, our hens laid 5 eggs today" or "Owen is in a pour-out-all-liquids-on-any-surface phase." So I spared you the mundane, until I finally had something pretty to share!

I absolutely loved stitching this piece. I was inspired by this photograph, and I stitched it up for {what else?} a Craftster swap. (If you want to be totally wowed, check out the gallery.)

I used a split stitch to fill the wings. I started at the outer edges of a particular section or shape, and then filled in the spaces in a spiral, basically. The white spots are my favorite stitches -- french knots -- that I tacked down with a single strand to make them less round, more irregular.

I worked on this piece for about a week, a few hours (or a few episodes of Hoarders or Columbo) at a time. I've posted a few in-progress photos over on flickr if you'd like to take a gander.

Now, I have a couple of orders to finish up, and then tomorrow we'll be going into Insanely Frantic Party Preparation Mode for my lovely daughter's 16th birthday party!

I can't believe she's 16. She is so kind and artistic, patient and funny. I'm so proud of her. But we do have a lot to do now, like finish painting the trim in our living room:

YES! We finally painted something!

And then whip up some fabric banners, table cloths, and fabric-mache pumpkins. So I'll be gone for a few more days, but I promise to be back soon. And hopefully with some more pretty pictures. See you then!

Progress

2010-09-11T13:22:00.000-05:00

Gearing up to kill the paper addiction

2010-09-06T18:26:00.001-05:00

Slowly but surely (and I mean sloooowwwly) I'm making some progress on my Stash Buster / Going Greener To-Do List. I've decided to whittle a bit at our paper towel habit.

We use paper towels for cleaning, for wiping up spills, for dinner napkins, for a lazy lunch "plate." We use A LOT of paper towels. This is going to be one hard habit to break.

I've spent some of the Labor Day weekend cutting, pressing, pinning, pressing, sewing (repeating) a giant stack of cloth dinner napkins. Here are the few finished napkins. . . .

. . . from this giant pile I've cut so far. (That's my machine under there, somewhere.)

I stopped counting napkins after I cut the first fabric, so I have no idea how many we'll have. These take longer to make than I had anticipated, mostly due to the step of pressing the hems and corners. I used this tutorial to guide me on size (16" x 16") and on how to make lovely mitred corners.

Mine aren't so lovely. But that's OK -- the napkins will be used to wipe spaghetti sauce from chubby little cheeks. . . I doubt the Monkeys will care if the mitred corners don't match up perfectly!

And for cleaning. . . .

I realized that I didn't own any fabrics appropriate for cleaning or wiping cloths (unbelievable, right?) I could either buy fabric and make some myself, or I could purchase ready-made towels from a small business. So, rather than add to my stash (and sewing to-do list), I decided to purchase a couple of different un-paper towels sold on Etsy.

I first purchased a baker's dozen of unbleached towels from Athena Creates. Simply put, they are fabulous. They work hard, clean up spills, and don't show stains much. I decided to buy a batch of 20 towels from Lucky Hanks, and I have to say that I love these, too... maybe a little more, just because they're a tad larger. They are white, so they show stains more, but I don't mind using bleach or borax when I have to. I'm looking forward to buying more from both sellers soon!

Now, it's time to start dinner, and put some of these towels and napkins to good use. Have a lovely holiday!

PS -- I almost forgot to mention that there's a FREE SHIPPING sale going on right now on Etsy with the ETC street team! Please do drop by!

How exciting!

2010-09-03T00:09:00.000-05:00

One of our hens finally laid her first egg! There was quite a celebration among all the Monkeys when they found it. OK, OK. I squealed a bit, too.

And then. . . .

. . . as I was reading my email other day, I came across this in the Craftster newsletter!

I blinked, and stared. And blinked, and stared some more. Hey, that's ME! I was so surprised, and I feel very humbled. It's such a sweet article, and the kind words mean so much to me. Thank you, Craftster and fellow craftsters! I really appreciate YOU!

I know I promised a Stash-Buster update... but it will have to wait a bit. I somehow pinched a nerve in my neck this morning, and can't turn my head, or lift my right arm, or really do much of anything if I'm not painkiller-fueled. So it's probably best that I not blog too much. See you in a few days!

Life is going along....

2010-08-29T11:20:00.000-05:00

Not too much excitement, but just enough.

Monkey 5 found this little guy in our yard! We let him go immediately, of course.

Some good news. . . .

in the cold, clear spring water at Balmorhea

Christine is doing very well. I think we are finally close to a diagnosis! Her new specialist believes that she has been misdiagnosed (again,) and a definitive diagnosis and treatment plan are on the horizon! Your prayers are being heard. . . . thank you for all your prayers, words of encouragement and support.

Chicken news. . . .

Roosters: 15, Hens: 5. Yep, we miscounted, and the two wayward roosters have been granted a conditional reprieve. As long as they're behaving, they're welcome. And they're behaving very well these days. Still no eggs from the hens.

I've been sewing. . . .

. . . a few items for the shop.

Plus, a crochet hook holder for a friend. . . .

I used this pattern. It's so well-written, and a lot of fun to make! A beginner could easily master this project. If you crochet, or know someone who does, you should definitely try this pattern!

In the sewing room, I've unboxed my fall fabrics, and am so excited to begin working on new totes and pouches in fun fall colors and textures. I foresee lots of coffee and Etta James in store for these sewing sessions!

Oh, I'll be giving an update on my Stash-Busting progress this week, so please drop by again soon! Have a lovely and blessed Sunday!

Changes

2010-08-21T14:38:00.001-05:00

Out of the twenty chicks we purchased this spring, which were plainly labeled "pullets," by the way, thirteen of them were roosters. THIRTEEN. And they were very mean, very aggressive, always fighting to be top rooster. They began attacking the Monkeys and me, so it was time to make some changes. The Dirty Dozen of Evil Roosters had to go. I had to remind myself that this was for the good and safety of my family, and for the good and health of the flock that we are keeping.

Now that the mean roosters are gone, the change in our hens (plus the one remaining rooster) is incredible. Night and day! They're so docile and gentle, and are pleasant to be around. Maybe now the hens can sit in peace, and have a moment or two to actually lay an egg.

Another change. . . .

Dryer sachets are back! I've had so many requests for them, that I've decided to bring them back to my Etsy shop. My sweet sister is helping me with them, otherwise, I could never keep up with everything. I am ever-so-thankful for her! (pssst... there's a "secret" sale code over on my Facebook fan page, if you're interested!)

And yet, another change. . . .

Decluttering my sewing room, I've uncovered some interesting, forgotten supplies.

So, I whipped up a little batch of homemade deodorant! I've been wanting to make it for quite some time to replace store-bought, chemical-laden products. . . .

This recipe is so easy to follow, and it took maybe 3 minutes to make. The deodorant is creamy and soft -- not gritty at all! (Just my personal preference, I will add a tad more baking soda to my next batch.) And so far, in 100+ degree heat, it works great. Since I used new-found stash, I've added this recipe to my Stash Buster Link section! (I've added it to my Stash Buster To-Do list, because I plan to make more deo, and try my hand at some lotion, too.)

Now, I'm off to work on a few little nest boxes for our hens. I hope you have a wonderful weekend!

Tiny

2010-08-18T11:31:00.000-05:00

As I sipped my coffee and perused my favorite blogs this morning, I found myself wondering, "how do these women find the time to do all this stuff?"

My Monkeys hit the ground running in the mornings, as I drag my tired, old body out of bed to shuffle to the coffee pot. To be sipping my coffee and reading blogs is pretty much stolen time to begin with. And then there is school, chores, chickens, etc., until the kids are in bed around 8 or 9. I then have the evening hours to work, sew, create... but usually, I'm just too tired, or want to unwind. A lot of unwinding. I don't have the time to make stuff everyday, and then post beautiful, inspiring pictures about them everyday. I very much wish I did, but that's not life for me. I'm beginning to suspect that if I were to accept that fact, perhaps life would be... simpler. But still: How do you do it??

So, today, all I have is this. Tiny lizards caught by tiny hands. . . .

Tiny stitches.

(More on the tiny stitches later!)

So this is all my tiny amount of time blogging will allow for today. Again, how do you do it all?

Out of control, and a new plan

2010-08-13T14:52:00.000-05:00

I was sitting in my sewing room last night, and I looked around. It's approaching Hoarders status. Floor to ceiling stacks and bins and piles of fabrics. So many beautiful fabrics, untouched. Many have been hanging around for 3, 4, 5 years. Why? It's so wasteful.

And earlier this week, a friend asked me how much we spent on paper towels every month. I cringed when I told her we go through a bulk package at least once a month. That's A LOT of paper towels. Again, so wasteful.

So, I've decided to address, no, attack my stash, plus our addiction to paper towels.

I've compiled a list on the left-hand side of my blog detailing my plans. I'd love it if you would follow along and cheer, or scold, if you feel the need. I hope you'll be inspired to get creative, crafty and thrifty, too! I'll also be sharing links and tutorials for these projects as I find them.

One little project I've already begun. . . .

I made a little batch of reusable snack / sandwich bags for a swap yesterday.

Some are lined with white cotton fabric:

And some are lined with hot pink rip-stop:

All have velcro closure, and are washable. And all fabrics were from my stash. These are so incredibly easy to whip up, that I can't wait to make our familiy a whole mess of these. I winged these, constructing them as I would my zipper pencil pouches (just without the zipper.) So easy! Here's a tutorial that's similar to how I did mine, if you'd like to make some for yourself!

I'm looking forward to your comments, suggestions and ideas on my list and stash-busting efforts!

Why I love Etsy.... Reason No. 5,897

2010-08-10T11:32:00.000-05:00

Beanie lovingly handmade by Liz, of The Lavender Lizard, for my gigantic-noggin'd Monkey. We love it. . . and it hasn't left his head even for a second! Thank you!

And recently....

2010-08-07T22:57:00.002-05:00

Another fairly random post about stuff going on around here. I hope to get back to some craftier posts soon, but until then. . . .

Last week, my skilled, creative, and very generous family blessed us with a new roof and ceiling for my laundry room. The laundry room is actually a small building right next to our house -- not attached to the house at all. I know. It's odd. But it works.

Anyway, it was a total laundry shack, with the ceiling drooping and leaking, and scorpions falling out of it. Yeah. Awful. I'm glad I don't have any before pictures. I probably wouldn't share them anyway if I did, it was that ugly. But now I have a strong, insulated wood ceiling, and a shiny tin roof on my laundry room! It's sooo much nicer, and I can't wait to paint this room. Maybe hang a banner, some curtains. Is it silly that I want to decorate in here, just a little? (A HUGE thanks again to my dear family! I appreciate and love you all so much!)

And then yesterday. . . .

I whipped up this bag for myself.

I've sold a couple of totes similar to this one in my shop, and I just loved them. I wanted to make one for myself, so I cut the fabric for this bag two years ago. TWO. YEARS. AGO. And I never got around to making it. That's pretty sad, if you think about it. What was I waiting for? I'm really happy with how it turned out, and from now on, I plan to make myself a pretty little thing every once in a while.

And last night. . . .

I finished the bag just in time to take it to the Rock the Desert concert!

Skillet! Yeah, here I was waaay in the back with the old folks.

My teen daughters have been planning, stalking, talking and dreaming about this event for months now. I expected to hear some decent music, and come home with a headache, but I was pleasantly surprised. I had a wonderful time with my lovely daughters, and heard inspiring testimonies and beautiful music. I am already planning, stalking, talking and dreaming about next year's concert!

Silent movies

2010-07-28T12:45:00.000-05:00

I love silent movies. I once read a review of the silent German film, Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror, and decided to check it out.

Let me first say that I'm not a fan of horror films, but I did enjoy Nosferatu. It was so creepy. I should also mention that I don't really like vampires, especially vampires of the new Twilight / True Blood fads. I suppose that makes me an oddball, but I'm fine with that. Nosferatu is the original, old-fashioned, evil, stinking kind of vampire, so if you decide to watch the movie, keep that in mind. And I do recommend the movie!

All that brings me to this....

I recently organized the June Birthday Swap on Craftster, and chose to make one of the birthday girls a messenger bag. She is a big fan of the old-school movie monsters, so I jumped at the chance to make a creepy Nosferatu bag!

The messenger bag is one of my larger ones, and it's constructed from a pair of black denim jeans. Well-worn by a cowgirl, I'm guessing, by the tell-tale worn center creases. I like the way they look.

I used my favorite freezer paper stencil technique to create the face. I know one eye looks wonky, and I probably should have adjusted it, but that's how his eye looks in the photos of him, so I left it that way.

The birthday girl likes all-black bags, so I accommodated this wish... except for this little surprise I included on the inside:

I really enjoyed making the bag, and I think I'm getting much better / faster / more efficient at making the larger messengers. I learn something new each time I make one.

As for silent movies, you really should give them a try. Make some tasty popcorn, and curl up with your loved ones and enjoy this unique experience. Yes, your kids will protest at first, but maybe they'll actually like them. My most, MOST favorite silent film is The Adventures of Prince Achmed, and my kids loved it, too. It is stunningly beautiful, especially when you realize exactly what you're watching. (I won't give it away... you have to check it out for yourself! )

So, what's YOUR favorite silent film? I'd love to hear your recommendations!

Breathe

2010-07-25T10:37:00.000-05:00

Lately I've been rushing around, hurrying, procrastinating, worrying. I'm trying to remember to breathe. Breathe. Breathe. That helps.

Monkey 2 has had a severe relapse, and could use some prayers. (My new readers can read about the beginning here and an update here.) We have more, new doctors added to the team, but still do not have a diagnosis. I know there are so many people out there with sicker children, worse circumstances, scarier prognoses. I try to remind myself that we are truly blessed, and every day is a gift.

Sewing helps, too.

I've been stash-busting like crazy. Most of the pouches in my shop now are made from fabric I've had on my cutting table for 2 or 3 YEARS. It feels great to be using them up! Although, I'm a little sad to see this one go. . . .

And this one, too. I wish I had yards of these fabrics! But that's the nature of using reclaimed materials, I suppose. You have a limited amount of it, and you make the best of it.

Kinda like life, and everything else.

Sneaky

2010-07-23T20:01:00.001-05:00

Oh, how I love denim.

And freezer paper. What could this be? (And no cheating, my Facebook friends! I know you already know!) ;-)

Have a lovely weekend!

Look who was waiting for me. . .

2010-07-22T11:38:00.000-05:00

. . . at the thrift store!

I have always wanted a little nesting doll, ever since I was a tiny girl. This desire was mostly inpired by this video. . . enjoy!

And a friendly reminder -- the Christmas in July Sale is still going on all over Etsy!

I hate my new camera, and some stuff I don't hate

2010-07-18T13:16:00.001-05:00

My simple, trusty, and very cheap Samsung point-and-shoot has served me well for a few years now. It has recently developed a hiccup of switching to video mode (or some other mode) at random moments. It was bothersome, but didn't prevent me from taking photos when I needed to.

But then one of my sweet Monkeys signed up for a photography class with our local 4-H. I imagined her fumbling with the camera, in front of other watchful teens, while it beeped and blinked and switched in and out of different modes. How embarrassing that would be! So I thought a new, simple, and very cheap replacement camera was in order.

Oh, how I hate my new camera. It tries to overthink and outsmart me. It fiddles with focusing, with lighting, even when I tell it not to. It's anything but simple.

But maybe my daughter will get some good use out of it.

New stuff shot with crummy new camera. . . .

I shot each of these items with the same backdrop, same camera settings, at the same time of day. These are edited, because the originals were so dark. I don't feel right about editing too much, because it can distort the color, and then I don't have a true representation of the items, you know? So I'll be reshooting these this afternoon, probably with my old, trusty, cheapo camera.

But -- I am so excited to be posting these new items in my shop, just in time for Etsy's Christmas in July Sale! Have you searched christmasinjuly or cij over on Etsy yet? Crazy-insane bargains! Really. I've already started shopping.

I hope you have a wonderful weekend!

Catch Up, Part 2

2010-07-12T12:20:00.000-05:00

As promised, here's the entire series of calaveras from the Mexican Kitsch Swap! These are all made from little wooden trinket boxes, plus polymer clay, fabric, paint, paper, glitter (lots of glitter) and some beads. Enjoy!

Today, I'm working on a few more zippy and box pouches, and then I'll be diving into new messenger bags! I had hoped to have some embroidered Christmas ornaments or pincushions ready in time for the Christmas in July Sale. . . I'm still hoping to get them finished. Wish me luck!

Catch Up, Part 1

2010-07-11T11:21:00.001-05:00

Let's play catch-up, shall we? Blogger is acting so oddly this morning, that I'll break this into two posts. My brain can only handle so much aggravation! GRRR!

I received this sweet embroidered piece from prttynpnk in an Embroidery Swap back in March. . . .

I had begun working on my partner's piece, and then this happened:

So I started completely over, complete with a new design. I just couldn't look at the old one! And this is what I came up with. . . (and it really wasn't crooked when laid out properly):

I stitched this piece on reclaimed linen, and used several new-to-me stitches, plus some of my favorite stitches with new/different strand counts. I really enjoyed making this piece, especially the french knots. Oh, how I love the french knots! But you already knew that. ;-)

Tomorrow, I'll post the calaveras series my daughter and I had made for the Mexican Kitsch Swap. Until then, I hope you have a wonderfully blessed and peaceful Sunday!

Back to work

2010-06-29T11:18:00.008-05:00

We enjoyed our little staycation, and now it's time to [reluctantly] get back to work. We homeschool year-round, so it's also time for back to school.

For school, I whipped up a bunch of zipper pouches for the kids, using both new and reclaimed fabrics, mostly scraps. Each child received a bunch of new pens and pencils, and a box of crayons, most of which are already missing. (What do they do with them, eat them? Seriously!)

I have gone back to work in my shop, as well. I'm working slowly, but I'm enjoying it. I constructed this messenger bag from 100% reclaimed materials. It's a smaller messenger, about 9" square, and patterned after this one I made. I think I'm going to stick with this size, as opposed to the larger ones.

My favorite part? The map print fabric for the lining (once a men's shirt.)

And of course, the usual eco tote, also constructed from 100% reclaimed fabrics. . . .

More totes and bags are on the cutting table -- I'm getting ready for Etsy's Christmas in July Sale. Should be fun! Now, back to the grind stone. . . .

I think I love West Texas

2010-06-20T15:56:00.009-05:00

When you think of west Texas, you may picture cacti, dusty pastures, mesquite trees and oil rigs. That's what I pictured, when I heard we were moving out here last November. And I wasn't wrong. West Texas does have all of those things -- but there is so much more.

I realized this arid region has its own beauty, and maybe you have to look a bit harder, or a bit closer, to find it. But it's here, and it's amazing.

I was first pleasantly surprised by its amazing sunsets. . . .

Then its clear blue skies and warm winds. . . .

All the little owls, road runners, horned toads that elude my camera. . . they're like little gifts I'm surprised with each day.

We also discovered that there are many letterboxes hidden out here. We paid a visit to the Odessa Meteor Crater last week, and found one hidden there!

The actual crater isn't what most people would expect to find, but I found it very peaceful, relaxing and so ancient. I'm looking forward to going back out there and spending a bit more time. . . maybe even without the Monkeys.

Last week, we also made a short trip to Monahans Sandhills State Park with some of our extended family, to play on the dunes and (again) letterbox.

It's really a unique and fun place to visit, and we're all looking forward to going again very soon.

We also travelled a couple of hours southwest to Balmorhea, nestled in the foothills of the Davis Mountains. (Watch the video at the Balmorhea link!)

Balmorhea is the home of San Solomon Springs, a crystal clear artesian spring that pumps out millions of gallons of cold, fresh water per day. There is so much water, that after irrigating the town and all of the nearby farms and fields, it still provides more than enough water to fill and replenish the 3.5 million gallon pool we swam in! It's truly beautiful, and feels like a place far removed from the dusty desert where we live.

Monkey 7 is pictured above, with the pool in the background (just behind the picnickers under the trees.) Unfortunately, I don't have any photos of the water, or the Monkeys in the water, because of this Monkey. . . .

Yes, that is Owen, wallowing in the dirt. He hated the water. At least, he hated it until 10 minutes before we had to leave, and then he wailed because we were leaving. Never a dull moment with this child!

We plan to visit Balmorhea again this summer, at least once, and then venture up to the Davis Mountain State Park for a day or so. I can hardly wait!

So although I do miss the trees, hills and streams of north central Texas, I am enjoying all the hidden treasures of west Texas. I'll keep you posted on more finds. . . .

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Happy Father's Day to my wonderful Dad, and to my sweet husband! I love you both so much!

The Last Catrina

2010-06-09T23:08:00.004-05:00

So this really is the last Catrina pincushion I'll be making. I definitely like her better than this one or this one, the two previous versions.

Still loving the french knots. . . .

. . . and my favorite Viva Frida fabric!

This Last Catrina also has some exciting news to share. . . .

This little lady was chosen as a June Featured Project on Craftster! Hooray! (A huge THANKS to all you awesome craftsters that "rocked" this!)

And as promised. . . .

A free pattern for your very own Catrina pincushion! I've also included the basic instructions for it over on Craftster. I'd love to hear if you decide to try out the pattern. I apologize in advance if it's not easy to follow. It was originally designed for my own thought process, and I wasn't really planning on anyone else using it. You know? So it may not be of any real use. ??? Some people had asked for it, so here it is. :) Enjoy!

Busy, and not

2010-06-02T10:05:00.007-05:00

Lately, we've been busy, but not. We haven't traveled, scurried, bustled or hurried. But we have sewn, baked, constructed, planted. I love that right now, our lives are peacefully chaotic. I don't feel rushed, but I am happily exhausted by the end of the day. Here are a few photos of some of our projects. . . .

Some sewing. . . .

These totes are finally listed in my shop. Finally.

Some embroidery. . . .

This is just a sneak peek. :) I'll post the finished project (plus pattern!) later this week.

Some construction. . . .

Before:

After:

OK, we do have trim on the doorway now, so it looks even better! All that's needed is paint, and our new door will be complete. I'll try to remember to post a photo when we're finished. (A very special thanks to our very special person that helped us with this complex task!)

A few more quiet plans for this week: planting and weeding our garden that is woefully overgrown already; landscaping; painting (the new door and doorway!) and maybe, hopefully, lots more sewing.

Roosters

2010-05-22T11:25:00.004-05:00

Kind of a random topic, I know. I've had several rooster themes pop up over the last few weeks, so I thought I'd put them together into one post. Here we go!

A little rooster I made for the Mexican Kitsch Swap. . . .

...a little wooden trinket box from the craft store, plus some paint, glitter (of course,) polymer clay, fabric, paper and a plastic toy rooster. (My kids will never miss it!)

This is one of a series of boxes I made for my lovely swap partner, who teaches high school Spanish. She wanted some art for her classroom, so I designed this to be handled, touched, opened and closed.

Inspiration can come from the oddest, most unexpected places. My inspiration for El Gallo? My zumba class! Yes, I'm still going, and I love, love, LOVE it. (Dropped 2 sizes so far! Yay!) Anyway, we dance to this song (and it's one of my favorite routines). . . . and it inspired the rooster box. . . .

Another rooster. . . .

The best. sauce. on. earth.

I recently tried sriracha sauce on banh mi, and fell in love. I now put this on just about everything. It's that good. Try it. Please.

And some maybe-roosters. . . .

OK, so it's really just a gratuitous photo of our sweet chickens. But we do think there may be a rooster or two or three. I'm not sure how to tell yet, as they're still young. (I also haven't done any research on this, either.) There are a few chickens with longer tails, bigger combs, and have more color -- and act bossier than the others. I guess we'll see soon enough. . . .

So if you've made it to the end of this random post, thanks for dropping by! Have a wonderful weekend!

Sugar

2010-05-18T14:55:00.005-05:00

We made a simple cherry pie the other day. . . it was amazing! We cheated and used 2 cans of cherry pie filling (gasp!) but made the pie crust from scratch. It's not as hard to make as you may think. . . .

I've always used the Joy of Cooking recipe for Basic Pie Crust, omitting the butter. If you don't have this cookbook, this recipe is pretty close to what I use. The secret to melt-in-your-mouth pie crust? Ice water. Seriously. And handling the dough as little as possible. Try it, and you'll be amazed at the difference these two tiny little details make!

For extra yummy-ness, just before baking the pie, brush the crust with milk, and sprinkle with sugar, or cinnamon sugar. The crust will crisp up just that much more, and it's sooooo good.

And more sugar. . . .

A little messenger bag! It's been quite a while since I've made one of these, hasn't it? This one is made from 100% reclaimed fabrics.

A skirt, a shirt and a curtain panel all came together to make this bag. I also completed two eco totes last week, but I'm waiting to list them in my shop. I'd like to have 5 - 10 bags finished, and list them all together. So hopefully, I'll have some more to show you very soon!