Crafting by Candlelight

Kiwi Crates

2012-02-14T14:12:00.000-08:00

As a full-time-work-outside-the-home mom, I always feel as if I have to make those precious moments with my son count. I commute to work so I typically get home around 5pm. Dinner is at 6:30pm and bedtime is between 7:30-8:00pm. That doesn't leave a lot of time for quality moments. I love to spend that time together doing crafts or activities or reading books. On days when I am particularly tired, it's hard to come up with things to do. That is why I love Kiwi Crates. I just started subscribing to this service before Christmas. Each month, a box is delivered to our door that has a particular theme and two activities. Our last two crates focused on Space and the Ocean. Noodlebug and I absolutely LOVED the Space activity where you make your own rockets and launch them off a straw. We had contest to see who could launch their rockets farthest down the hall.

Here is a sample activity from the Color crate:

The activities can focus on art, creative play or science activities. The best part is that the crate contains just about everything you could possibly need for each activity down to the colored pencils and scissors. So, no running around trying to gather materials! I can just open the box and we can get to work!

At $19.95 a month, it may seem like quite an expense but I have to tell you the activities are truly quality experiences and having all the materials at your fingertips saves time and money. No going out and buying a giant bag of pipe cleaners when you only need two for the activity. What really sold me was the fact they won a MAKER FAIRE Educator's Award. I haven't been disappointed so far!

Can't wait to see what this month's box will bring!

Read more about Kiwi Crates and see sample boxes here.

(The opinions in this review are all my own.
If you sign up using my link, I will get a $10 credit
so Noodlebug and I can enjoy more quality time together with Kiwi Crates!)

Peculiar Valentines

2012-02-14T08:31:00.000-08:00

For fans of the book MISS PEREGRINE'S HOME FOR PECULIAR CHILDREN there is a special Valentine's treat!

If you are a little late with your valentines, go here to find some really fun and quirky valentines based on photographs from the book. You can send them electronically or print them out.

Happy Valentine's Day!!!

Valentine's Eve

2012-02-13T12:16:00.000-08:00

For some time now, I have wanted to do a Valentine's version of an advent calendar and also a little Valentine's mailbox that would have little treats for Noodlebug in the two weeks leading up to Valentine's Day.

It still hasn't happened.

Maybe next year.

I did manage to make homemade cards for my husband and my mother. Noodle has a special Hallmark Toy Story card with 3D glasses waiting for him. I also managed to put together two little flipbooks for my two best local friends filled with all the things I love about them. And I made six handmade Valentines to donate to our local Meals on Wheels program to be delivered to local seniors on Valentine's Day. Wish I could have done more. I also had Noodlebug help me finish his TOAD-ally awesome Valentines for tomorrow.

Didn't get the house decorated. Didn't get my Valentine's crafting goals done. But I hope the things I did get done will show my loved ones will know how much I love them.

Create Club Recap

2012-02-05T19:38:00.000-08:00

One of the things I love about getting together with the girls for a crafty afternoon is the fact that no matter what project we are working on everyone comes up with something different!

Since this was our first meeting, I made little notebooks for everyone and included a Mary Engelbreit pen:

sideways photo!!!

We made journals from old books that I fished out the recycle bin at work.


Carmen's book


Kim's book

Danielle's Book


Tina's Book

I hope we can all get together soon for another project!

Make a Muppet Face (tutorial)

2012-02-04T17:33:00.000-08:00

This isn't really a formal tutorial. It's more of an easy play idea I wanted to pass on.

I took my 3.5 yr old to see THE MUPPETS when it came out and he really enjoyed it. (although probably not as much as I did) He is already a big Sesame Street fan. I have always loved the Muppets because they are all shapes and sizes. There isn't really ethnicity about them. They are all different shapes and sizes and colors. It's wonderful! I love their diversity.

I thought it would be a fun activity for my son to mix and match his own Muppet faces. I cut up a cardboard box and covered some square pieces with black felt using a glue gun. I then cut out 4-5 typical Muppet face shapes and glued them onto the boards. I then covered one large piece of cardboard with black felt that would be the holder for all of the features. Finally, I cut out an array of Muppet features. Eyes. Noses. Hair. Eyebrows. Glasses. Anything I could think of. I ended up drawing the mouths onto the faces. I may make some interchangeable mouths in the future.

Here are some sample faces he came up with:

I based this one on Bert but he has endless options:

I have been pleasantly surprised at how occupied this activity keeps my son. He really enjoys making the faces although he seems really concerned about making them look exactly like his Sesame Street friends. The best part is that you can make this using materials you most likely already have on hand. The possibilities are endless!

Team Ashley Auction

2012-02-03T09:41:00.000-08:00

I have mentioned Lil Blue Boo many times on my blog. I absolutely love Ashley. She makes me laugh every single time I read her blog. Ashley is fighting a very difficult and invasive kind of cancer right now. The amazing thing about her is that she maintains her sense of humor and hope and works very hard to help the people around her. Every time I get a case of the "woe is mes," I head over to Ashley's blog to remind myself how good I have it and how blessed I am. If I had an ounce of Ashley's hope, joy and sense of humor, I would be a very lucky woman indeed.

Some of Ashley's friends will be putting on an auction to help raise money to cover Ashey's medical bills. In spite of the profound and difficult treatments she is going through, Ashley has fought to keep her online store open not only to earn money but also to keep her employees employed in jobs they so greatly need. A little extra money would take some of the pressure off so she can focus on healing.

I have gotten so much out of Ashley's story, creative inspiration and daily dose of humor that I want to give back.

Read more about her story and the auction here. I'll be there. How about you?

GIVEAWAY

2012-02-02T08:52:00.000-08:00

I'm giving away a new edition of the KAMA SUTRA (just in time for Valentine's Day!) on my book blog. If you thought this was a dirty book filled with erotica....think again. The KAMA SUTRA is an often humorous historical work that looks at right and proper conduct in love and relationships.

Find information on the giveaway here.

(This book is text only.)

Create Club

2012-02-01T16:25:00.000-08:00

(I chose the chicks because Petaluma is known for its chickens)

Some of my friends are naturally crafty. My friend Monique does everything from mixed media to knitting. My friend Danielle is a wonderful quilter. My friend Kim is also a very talented multi-crafter.

Some of my friends come VERY reluctantly to the worktable.

I believe that everyone needs time to do something creative. It can be extremely freeing and relaxing.

So, I decided to reinstitute our crafty get-togethers here in Petaluma.

Our first meeting of the newly minted CREATE CLUB will happen this weekend. I work in a library and we often have to discard and recycle books that are too beat up or out of date. I have been fishing some of the older hardcover ones out of the bin in order to repurpose them as journals. So, this weekend we will be pulling apart old dusty books in order to turn them into new lovely journals. The perfect craft to kick off the new year, don't you think?

Check back here for photos after the weekend!

Poster Girl

2012-01-29T09:12:00.000-08:00

It's coming back!!! Don't you want to come to Sonoma County this Fall and get your craft on?

Registration opens soon! Go here for details.

Life Chronicles and a Secret

2012-01-23T16:08:00.000-08:00

I have been addicted to journal-making lately. In Jeanne Oliver's course that I have been taking, the first week focused on making journals from everything from vintage books to catalogs. I haven't made any yet but I am going to.

In the Brave Girls Club classes, you always make some type of book or journal. I have about four now in various states of completion.

I have a weekly Life Journal we are working on in Stephanie Ackerman's class where we get weekly prompts to work on.

THE HAPPINESS PROJECT encouraged me to write something down every day. I think I often feel I have to write down grandiose thoughts on each day and this prevents me from doing anything at all. I grabbed an inexpensive journal at Michael's recently and have made it a point to jot down a few sentences every day. I don't beat myself up if I miss a day or two. I try to pick out a few interesting things about the day or somethign funny Noodlebug said or did.

Journals everywhere!!!
I think this new obsession is growing out of my new biggest fear.

(deep breath)

Every since Noodlebug was born three and a half years ago, I have developed a fear of dying. I need to be clear right now. I am not afraid of death in and of itself. First of all, I am a Christian. (a Lutheran if that matters) We are promised eternal life in Christ. And I'm betting all my chips on that being true. I hope and pray to be reunited someday with loved ones that have gone before me. And even if I am wrong, I don't remember my life before I was born so I don't think there is much to fear about passing to the other side.

What I am afraid of is leaving behind my loved ones. I am most afraid of something happening to me before Noodlebug is grown. I want my child to grow up with a mother. There are things that only I can give him.

Lately, inspiring women with cancer have been crossing my path. Especially Ashley of Lil Blue Boo who makes me laugh every single day when I read her blog and reminds me (again!!!) not to take anything in my life for granted. And to "choose joy" every single day. I also watched this video today which got me thinking about a lot of things in my spiritual life. God is definitely trying to get my attention.

I think part of my fascination with journals lately has been a deep-seated need to chronicle who I am. You never know when your time is up. It could be tomorrow. It could be 20 years from now. I would like to leave these journals for my loved ones so that they have a record of who I was and what I believed.

Hopefully, they won't need them for about fifty years or so. But they will be there. Just in case.

Bad Blogger and January Goals

2012-01-19T13:30:00.000-08:00

I am so behind with my blogging! I think it is because I am currently taking three online classes. It's hard to keep up. Since I listen to the videos on my breaks at work, I have to wait and get home to my art supplies before actually starting any of the projects. Then, I walk into my workroom, look at the boxes piled up around the room, and turn around and walk back out. I'm so behind!!!

I am looking forward to my Valentine-making class at Paper Source next week. Maybe I'll get some inspiration there and I will actually have a photo or two to post!

As for my three classes, I am loving them all. Stephanie Ackerman's class is easy to keep up with and fun to do. Jeanne Oliver's class is filled with instruction on mixed-media technique. I'm learning on a lot but I'm not sure I'm ready to invest in all those materials. I'm loving Brave Girls Club BODY RESTORATION class. Really fun so far.

For the month of January, I set myself a few goals based on the classes I'm taking and the HAPPINESS PROJECT book. January is my "Boosting Energy and Body Care" month. Here are my goals for this month:

1. Get more exercise. At least three times a week in the gym. (So far, I'm doing pretty well with this)

2. Get organized. (not doing very well in this department but I am donating and selling lots of stuff!)

3. Get plenty of sleep. Don't stay up and watch tv when you don't really care about the show. (working on this one)

4. Drink more water. (check!!!)

5. Make better food choices. (no comment)

6. Take daily vitamin. (hit or miss)

7. Floss teeth daily. (doing better with this one!)

8. Wear sunscreen every day. (check!!!)

A lot to work on but so far so good!

Too soon?

2012-01-10T11:47:00.000-08:00

I have Valentine's Day on the brain. My sweet friend Kim and I are going to go to a Valentine-making class at Paper Source in a few weeks and I can't wait!!!

I always try to do cute gifts and treats for Noodle to give to his classmates. I am the only parent who do this. No one else have ever given out gifts at Christmas or Valentines or anything else. That kind of surprises me but we are only in preschool.

Anyway, I have decided to use this adorable tutorial from Crap I've Made:

(image source)

She includes a free printable that you can customize in Picnik. Perfect for a busy work-outside-the-home mom!!!

What will you be doing for Valentine's Day?

What's in Store for 2012

2012-01-04T13:30:00.000-08:00

I have decided to make 2012 my life work year! I am kicking off the year with three different online classes:

1. Brave Girls Club BODY RESTORATION

2. Jeanne Oliver's CREATIVELY MADE (four weeks....$48)

3. Stephanie Ackerman's SCRAPBOOK LIFE JOURNAL class (12 months...$40.24...signups open until Jan. 31)

I have already started Stephanie's class and I am loving it. You don't need many supplies. In fact, Stephanie encourages you to use what you have! You get weekly e-mails with journaling prompts along with fun things like monthly doodles to color. Very easy to keep up with. Plus, she works from a Christian perspective which helps with my faith work.

My friend Genevieve also gave me THE HAPPINESS PROJECT for Christmas and I am enjoying that as well. I am employing many of Gretchen Rubin's ideas in my Scrapbook Life Journal.

It's time to get control of my life and figure out what really makes me happy and how to be a better wife, mother and daughter.

Here we go!!!

Awesome

2012-01-03T10:45:00.000-08:00

Most of you know that I am a huge fan of Brave Girls Club. I have taken three online classes with them and I am about to start their new Body Restoration class. Every year, they put together a video of Awesome Things. It is so fun to watch and be reminded of all the wonderful things in our lives. Take a moment and watch it and you may recognize a familiar face at 48 seconds.

Breathe

2011-12-31T09:53:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!!!

Here is hoping that 2012 is a better year than 2011.

Each year, many bloggers choose a word for the upcoming year. My word for 2011 was "REMEMBER." It was so important for me to try and remember all my many blessings. I think I did a good job.

This year, my word is "breathe." I am one of those women who tends to overcommit. There is just so much I want to do and experience!!! I tend to stretch myself too thin and don't take care of myself or my family. In 2012, I'm going to try and slow down and BREATHE. Take time to smell the roses, to listen to the wind in the trees, to look at the stars. To enjoy life!!!

I already had this wonderful bracelet from Horsefeathers that says "Blessed."

I ordered a new plate for it that says "Breathe." I think it will be a great reminder for me to carry around with me this year.

What is YOUR word?

Blessed

2011-12-20T10:11:00.000-08:00

Wishing you the merriest of Christmases and the Happiest of New Years.

I will see you all in 2012!

Say It Every Day

2011-12-19T11:19:00.000-08:00

I just found out that my friend J. was killed in a car accident yesterday evening. She was a fairly new friend. We met serving on the board of our local Woman's Club together. I so appreciated her spirit and enthusiasm. She was in the process of whipping out group into shape and a new era for our Club was dawning. And now...in the blink of an eye...our dear friend is gone.

This morning, I am trying to remember my last interaction with my friend. Did I give her a hug? Did I wish her a very Merry Christmas? Did I tell her how much her contributions are valued? I can't remember.

My father was killed in 1999 and I DO remember my last interaction with him. It wasn't good.

I just shared our grief over J.'s death with another friend over the phone. When we ended our phone call, I told her I loved her and she said that we need to do that more often. We don't know when our time here will end. It is so important to take every opportunity to hug the people in our lives and tell them we value them and love them. You don't ever know when it may be the last time you see someone.

Today, I encourage you to tell the people in your life how much they mean to you.

Say it every day.

A Long Winter's Nap

2011-12-19T09:34:00.000-08:00

Friends, I have no reason to feel this tired. I had a lovely weekend filled with holiday activities. I took a half day off from work on Friday for Noodlebug's school party. And I even got his homemade gifts finished for his classmates. (photo to follow) Saturday, I took Noodle to a puppet show at the library, helped my mother set up her Christmas tree and then headed to my friend's for a holiday get-together. Sunday was another lovely holiday open house at the beautiful home of my friend Paula in Sonoma. I was fighting a sick headache but I was determined I wasn't going to miss this event. We were the first ones there and I settled myself in one of Paula's comfortable recliners next ot the fire with a plate full of food. The chair was similar to this one:

The house began filling up with people. I'd say there were at least 50 people milling around as I sat snuggled into the chair in the middle of the room. I did not budge from that spot for almost two hours. In fact, I very nearly closed my eyes and went to sleep right there in the middle of the party. I know Paula would have forgiven me if I did that. I think social propriety was the only thing that kept me from it. I didn't mingle. I didn't chat. I was a lousy guest. It seemed like my bum was glued to that chair. I finally peeled myself out of the chair because we had to leave to make it to Noodle's Christmas pageant at church. He did a good job in spite of the fact that his shepherd costume kept slipping off.

I have three more days of work until my holiday begins. I have no reason to feel this tired but I think the holidays have caught up with me. I am so ready to settle myself for a long winter's nap.

I am asking Santa for the gift of time this year. We have downsized a lot this past year and have more much to get rid of. I don't need any more "stuff" in my life. I used to think gift cards were not very good gifts but I have changed my tune. I would LOVE giftcards in the form of Starbucks, Michael's, our local movie theater or my favorite hangouts to go to with girlfriends. Things that would enable me to continue my ~~bad~~ habits. Actually, I love gift cards that enable me to spend quality time doing fun things with the people I love. I don't often get to take Noodle to movies. I don't spend NEAR enough time with my girlfriends. I don't ever eat out with my husband. Sometimes, those things are just luxuries we can't afford. So now, instead of seeing giftcards as the lazy gift giver's gift, I see them as a lovely gift of time with those I love. And we can all use more of that!

What is on YOUR list for Santa?

Action Pack 8: Celebration!!!

2011-12-14T08:55:00.000-08:00

The new ACTION PACK is here and it is bigger than ever!!! 80 pages of tutorials, crafts, recipes and more. All for only $8. It's more like a book than an e-zine!!!

In this Celebration issue…
■Recipes: cookies and holiday treats from around the world (9 recipes)

■Decorations: – ornaments, wreaths, banners and a nativity scene (8 projects)

■Games and gifts: – Wintry scenes to cut out and display, cards and gift tags, dress ups and games to make and play with (6 projects including printables)

Buy your copy here!!!

This e-zine is geared towards children ages 7-12 but many of the projects can be adapted for children of other ages. There are so many wonderful things to do in this issue and it will be perfect our for holiday vacation. I especially love a project where you make a red pillar mailbox out of an oatmeal can and make adorable wee little packages and mail to go in it. And the recipes all look so delicious!!! I think this may be the best Action Pack yet!

Holiday Fun

2011-12-12T10:13:00.000-08:00

We had a lovely weekend. We rode the Polar Express on Saturday which was just delightful. Noodle got so excited when we arrived at the "North Pole" and Santa boarded the train. Yes, I wore my jammies. I think I was the only adult to do so. I decided a long time ago that I would no longer allow my fears about other people's opinions to prevent me from doing things that make me happy. Life is too short to worry about what other people think.

We also stopped by our local Festival of Trees. I have been helping to develop this fundraiser and I think it turned out brilliantly. A local photographer did some impromptu photo sessions for a $10 donation to the charity. Here is one of my favorites:

And, in other news, something exciting happened last night. I actually sat down and sewed in my workroom!!! I worked really hard on digging my way into my workroom and made enough space to actually sit down and work on some gifts for Noodle's class. I am trying to make some of the adorable hot/cold packs I saw on Saltwater Kids. The class party is on Friday so we'll see if I get it done!

Hope you are having a wonderful Monday!

Noodlebug Homemade Gift Redux--Lil Blue Boo

2011-12-08T09:15:00.000-08:00

Every year I try to give Noodle a homemade gift for Christmas. This year, I have been feverishing working on embroidering Charlotte Lyons' adorable Maggie's Farm. It is becoming clear that I am just too slow. It may have to be a birthday gift instead.

So....

I am extremely late to the party but I have finally discovered Lil Blue Boo. Not only is Ashley amazingly creative but her wonderful spirit amazes me every day. She makes me laugh and inspires me even as she battles cancer. She makes me realize what a whiner I truly am. Ashley recently posted a tutorial on a little box of peg dolls for boys and girls complete with printable. I gathered the materials and finished painting the peg dolls a few days ago. I think it is such a great idea that I have asked a cartoonist friend of mine to make me MORE backgrounds for the kit so I can make characters like the Three Little Pigs and Little Red Riding Hood.

(image source)

Find Ashley's wonderful BOYVILLE tutorial here.

Isn't the internet great?!!!

This is Making Me Smile Today

2011-12-06T10:12:00.001-08:00

Matthew Mead and Status Update

2011-12-02T09:17:00.000-08:00

I started reading HOLIDAY WITH MATTHEW MEAD a few issues ago when I found out about all the wonderful bloggers like Amy Powers that are featured in it. There is so much wonderful inspiration! Plus, you should really check out Matthew Mead's blog. Lots of great inspiration and wonderful giveaways! Get your special keepsake expanded issue here.

I can't believe how quickly time is passing!!! I keep getting sidetracked and haven't even really started Noodle's homemade gift. I have been working on my gift for my mother. As you know, I signed us up for the Brave Girls Club Mother/Daughter class. My mother decided not to participate but I am still doing the class and working on things for her. I will present them to her at Christmas. I love these felt flowers over on Little Bit Funky and I'm going to try and make some of those as gifts as well. How am I going to get all of this done?!!!

I hope you are all decking your halls and making merry!

Virtual Angel Tree

2011-11-30T11:59:00.000-08:00

When I was growing up, my parents always took me to the Salvation Army Angel Tree at the mall and we would pick out a few Angels off the tree and go shopping for them. There are many worthy charities that do things like this but this one appeared at our mall every year and made it easy to give back.

I have tried to continue to do something like this every year but sometimes I feel stretched so thin trying to get everything done. I was excited to do hear that JCPenney is teaming up with the Salvation Army this year for their Angel Tree program. You can adopt an Angel online by searching for your zip code and then selecting the type of recipient you would like to have. I chose a senior citizen because I feel they get especially overlooked at this time of year when so many charities focus on children. I can't imagine what it would be like to be a senior alone at this time of year. I chose a woman in my area who is the same age as my mother. I ordered an item off her list at JCPenney online and had it shipped directly to the Salvation Army. They are even offering FREE SHIPPING codes through December 9.

Now, I can cross this important part of Christmas off my list. I hope it gives a little comfort to my Angel.

Go here to find your own Angel.

Spotted!

2011-11-28T15:53:00.000-08:00

My sweet friend Michelle of Hippie Dog fame spotted me in the December issue of ALL YOU magazine:

(photo borrowed from Hippie Dog)

I even read that particular issue and missed it!

I LOVE looking at holiday lights. Absolutely love it. If I am lucky, I can con my husband into driving so I can drink hot chocolate and be totally focused on the lights. We like to decide as a family on our favorite holiday house and leave them a little treat on their doorstep. All the decorations give me such joy and I think it's nice to let people know they brightened your holiday.

Cyber Monday at Pick Your Plum!!!

2011-11-25T10:03:00.000-08:00

You all know what great deals Pick Your Plum has for crafty people. They usually go so quickly that I often don't get to them before they sell out.

In honor of Cyber Monday, Pick Your Plum will be offering NINE different products! The products will be posted at 6:00am (MST). I'm not sure I will be up early enough but maybe you can find some good deals.

Go here to shop and good luck!!!

Giving Thanks

2011-11-22T10:30:00.000-08:00

I made the little graphic above on Picnik in honor of Thanksgiving. Plus, it is a good everyday reminder as well.

My husband has been struggling with his "thank yous" for awhile now. With everything that has happened in the past year and a half, it is so easy to focus on the bad instead of the good. I will be praying for a peaceful, quiet Thanksgiving this year. It will just be four of us. The boisterous Thanksgivings of my childhood are pretty much over. My son will never have cousins. There will be no more children in our little family unless I produce them. My son only has one grandparent and no aunts and uncles on my side. But we still have our family and we are blessed.

I have Wednesday through Sunday off from work. I'm going to set aside unpacking boxes and have some fun with my child. My husband is leaving Friday to go and visit some friends and try to find a little happiness so perhaps we will surprise him with a house decorated for Christmas when he gets back.

I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving. It's a good life and we have a lot to say "thank you" for.

Update on Crowdtap updated with Pinecone info

2011-11-18T11:33:00.000-08:00

Some of you may remember that I mentioned Crowdtap five months ago. It is a new opinion panel site that I decided to join. (because I love taking surveys!)

I thought I would report back on my experience with them so far.

THE GOOD:
It is really fun to take surveys with Crowdtap. The more interaction you have with them, the better the benefits. You get points and "money" by answering surveys and joining panels. When you reach $10 in "money," you can cash it in for a gift code to Amazon. Part of the money is also donated to the charity of your choice which I love. I have heard that some Tappers have gotten free products but I haven't gotten any so far. I am currently at the Gold level and it has taken me five months to get there. It seems like most of the good opportunities go to people at the Gold and Platinum levels. I tried to participate in every activity and survey opportunity that was offered as long as it was something that was appropriate. In other words, I would never lie just to get into a survey or opportunity.

THE BAD:
It can take a long time to move up through the ranks. It took several months to accumulate enough "money" to get my Amazon gift code but it helped me to get a birthday present for almost free which was great! You really have to be patient and stick with it in order to reap any real benefits.

If you are interested in joining, go here. If nothing else, it can be really fun to answer surveys. And you never know what kind of product opportunities might come up!!!

***UPDATE***
I just got an e-mail that Pinecone Research is recruiting. I have been doing surveys with them for years and they don't often allow new people to sign up. For each product survey you take, you get $3 free and clear deposited into your Paypal account. (this does not include general information surveys they sometimes send) They also enter you in contests to win cash as well but I have never won one. However, it is really nice to get cash for answering surveys and I like seeing it pile up in my Paypal account. I use it to fuel my Etsy addiction!!!

For a limited time, you can sign up for Pinecone here. (I do not get any compensation for getting you to sign up for Pinecone. I just think it's the best deal out there for people who like answering surveys)

Christmas Mouse

2011-11-17T12:05:00.000-08:00

I always feel blessed to have such creative people in my life and when I find one of their wonderful creations, I just have to share it with you.

This little guy arrived at my house this week:

(photo borrowed from and owned by Hippie Dog Primitives)

This adorable Hippie Dog creation comes with a pencil and a little rolled up note for Santa. And he smells so delicious!!! I can't wait to introduce him to Noodle but he'll have to wait a little longer. You can find your own here but you may have to wait until after Thanksgiving to get it. I have so many of Michelle's primitives and I love each and every one. Plus, she is such a sweetheart and has been a blogger friend for years.

I am going to hit the storage unit this weekend and try to find Thanksgiving decorations. Better late than never!! I also need to locate our Elf on a Shelf so he will be ready to appear on December 1. Our elf is named Crumpet and I have already let Noodle know that he is on his way!

My husband is being a real grump about decorating for Christmas so it looks like I will be doing it on my own. I am looking forward to sprucing up the fence at our new home. I already envision it covered in swags of lighted garland. I'll let you know how it turns out!

Mothers and Daughters

2011-11-15T11:44:00.000-08:00

I love my mother so much. I am the only child of an only child. My father was killed in 1999 so I am pretty much the only family my mother has. We are very close. Close relationships can be complex. We have been struggling in our relationship for several years now. Sometimes changing roles can be difficult and we have to figure out new ways to relate to one another. It hasn't been easy.

With our new scaled-down Christmas idea, I was trying to think of something small I could get my mother. There are lots of things I know she would like but I hesitate to add any more "stuff" to our lives. I want to give her something meaningful.

I have so enjoyed the classes I have taken with Brave Girls Club and I was thrilled to hear they were offering a Mother/Daughter online class. The class starts today and I can already tell that wonderful things are going to come out of it. I paid for the class and, to make things easier, gathered a basket of materials for my mother. I left them at her house as a surprise. I am also going to print all the PDF files for her so all she will have to do is watch the videos and do the art projects. At the end of the class, we will have some concrete keepsake art items to present to one another. This will be our Christmas gift to each other.

Although the class was originally created for mothers with younger daughters, BGC assures us that it is appropriate for mothers and daughters of any age. I'm hoping that making this journey together will provide some much-needed healing and reminders about how much we love one another. I hope Mom enjoys it!!!

What I Have Been Up To

2011-11-14T11:28:00.000-08:00

I had a glorious three-day weekend with my family. It poured down rain on Friday so we missed the wonderful Veterans' Day Parade that our little town hosts but we still had a nice day. Every day I have off from work is a blessing. It is precious time that I get to spend with my family. But it makes it that much harder to head back to work.

It was sunny on Saturday and Sunday so we worked in the yard and spent some time unpacking more boxes. I can actually walk into the room that will eventually be my workroom. I gathered the materials I need to start Noodle's "Maggie's Farm" gift although I haven't actually started it yet.

Money is so tight right now and we have decided to do a very scaled down Christmas. I'm not even sure if we have room for Christmas tree in our new home but we'll figure something out. The adults don't really need any gifts so we are skipping that. Noodlebug will just get three gifts from us (Santa) and I'm sure that will be fine. I want to focus on more family adventures and time together this holiday season. That will be the best gift. No running around stressing about Black Friday deals or finding gifts on sale. Just celebrating the gift of each other.

Speaking of money, I am going to try something new. I am investigating how Business2Blogger works. Other bloggers that I trust have tried it out and it seems to be an interesting way to do some paid blogging. I'm pretty picky about paid posts and reviews so we'll have to see what they are offering. Still, it could generate a little income. My friend Monique and I are also considering setting up an online store. She's actually a much better crafter than I am so it would probably just be me helping out. Still, it could be fun. I'll keep you posted!

Hope you are having a great day!!!

Stocking Stuffer?

2011-11-08T08:46:00.001-08:00

Look what Pick Your Plum has today!!! Personalized address stamps for only $8.75! I'm going to order one as a gift for Noodle's preschool teacher.

Get your own stamp here. But hurry! These go fast!!!

Creatively Made with Jeanne Oliver

2011-11-04T08:44:00.000-07:00

As some of you may know, I have been taking the Brave Girls Club Soul Restoration classes and it has been a wonderful experience. I enjoyed it so much that I have been looking for new online classes to take.

I am already a fan of Jeanne Oliver's art and clothing so I was so excited when she announced that she is launching a new e-course in January called Creatively Made.

Here is her description of the course:

It sounds like it will be a great way to start the new year and I am so excited about it. Would you consider joining me? I think it will be so fun!!!

You can view a video about the course here and get details about how to sign up.

Scenes from Halloween 2011

2011-11-03T09:16:00.000-07:00

Quick and easy pumpkin: (Did you know that old-fashioned pointy can openers make excellent pumpkin carving tools?)

(We named him "Joe Blow")

(Noodle with his little girlfriend---photo by Paul McGavin)

I am adding this photo so you can see all the fake pumpkins I carved. Got them at Michael's at 50% off plus a one day only 25% coupon. They are REALLY hard to carve!!! You can see my much loved family sign by Heidi in the background.

(trick or treating our friend Monique)

Action Pack 7----Sticks and Stones

2011-11-01T08:29:00.000-07:00

The new Action Pack is here! Wahoo!!!

As most of you know, I only do a minimal amount of advertising on my blog. I am an affiliate for three different vendors and that is it. I am highly selective about what a choose because I want you to know that I really believe in these products. Whipup's Action Packs are one of them. Kathleen Ricketson creates these wonderful e-zines for kids that gets them outdoors and exploring the world around them. Each issue has a different theme and the new one is "Sticks and Stones."

Most of the activities are geared for children ages 7-12 but there are always projects that can be adapted for younger children. Look at these colorful painted rocks:

And how about this adorable log cabin:

This printable downloadable magazine is available for only $5 and has no advertising. Only fun things to do!!!

Get your copy here.

I'm heading over right now to get mine.

BOO to you!

2011-10-31T09:14:00.000-07:00

Well, I managed to get a few decorations up for Halloween. Most of my decorations are in storage and I'm hoping to get a little more organized before Christmas rolls around.

Noodle has decided to go as Jack Skellington for Halloween. (his favorite movie is "Nightmare Before Christmas") I managed to dig out my old Sally costume which is a bit snug but I'm going to wear it anyway. When I used to work at the public library, I had a special Halloween storytime each year and I always dressed as Sally.

It might be a little ambitious to try today but I love this free banner from Pick Your Plum:

It is free today only and would make a great Halloween decoration if you already have the materials on hand.

Get your own here.

I took a photo of the pumpkin we carved and I'll try to post it here later today.

Hope you all have a wonderful Halloween!!!

The Kindness of ...

2011-10-25T11:40:00.000-07:00

I am always amazed by the kindness of ~~strangers~~ online friends. I recently admired Charlotte Lyons' new pattern for Maggie's Farm:

Each year at Christmas, I try to make at least one handmade gift for Noodle. When I saw Charlotte's new pattern, I thought it would make the perfect gift this year. (If I can ever get my workroom organized so I can find all my materials!) When Charlotte learned of my recent struggles, she sent me a copy of the pattern as a gift. So generous and thoughtful and it totally made my day. I now need to find a way to pay her kindness forward. In the meantime, if you want to stitchalong with me on this project, get your own pattern here. I have purchased quite a few of Charlotte's embroidery samplers and I just love her designs.

If I can get organized, I may also FINALLY try to finish Amy Power's ABC wooden spool project from one of her amazing Inspired Ideas magazines. Find it on page 32 of her Autumn 2010 issue:

Open publication - Free publishing - More craft

Amy will be releasing her latest Holiday issue next week and I can hardly wait to see what brilliant ideas she has to share.

I feel so blessed to have found such amazing people as Charlotte and Amy through blogging.

Supermodel

2011-10-19T10:42:00.000-07:00

Recently, Noodle was selected to be a model in the Fall campaign of a local children's boutique called Cupcake. Here are a few photos from the shoot. The kids were all so adorable!!!

(all photos by Mariah Smith)

The clothes are by Knuckleheads and that adorable hat is by Sand Cassel. Noodle just loves that hat! It was a fun experience. He is such a ham and really likes having his picture taken. What can I say? I'm a proud momma.

Highs and Lows

2011-10-17T11:55:00.000-07:00

Well, we are in the new house. We said goodbye to the old one. I did pretty well until I had a moment by myself in Noodle's room dismantling his crib. (we decided to start him in a twin bed in the new house) I put that crib together the day before my water broke. I cried a lot. I will miss that house so much.

We are now surrounded by boxes and I have no idea where anything is. It will take a long time to get settled. To add to the stress, there was a major family row that could have permanent repercussions. I know part of it was due to physical and emotional fatigue but it was pretty horrible. I didn't really sleep last night. I spent most of the night praying off and on and trying to find a solution to this problem.

We did manage a few moments of happiness yesterday morning. We headed to a Halloween event and Noodle wore the prince costume I made him. I didn't get the hat finished and his boot covers didn't quite fit so this Prince happens to wear Converse sneakers.

(petting a goat)

(with Grandma and a ghost)

(with his Godmother)

The cape was from GROWING UP SEW LIBERATED. I improvised with the felt tunic and belt and made my own pattern for them. I was going for Prince Philip from "Sleeping Beauty." It looks okay.

He has store-bought Tigger and Jack Skellington costumes and will probably wear one of those for Halloween. I'm just glad he got some use from the Prince costume.

Now I'm off to unpack and pray some more.

Oh My Stars!!!

2011-10-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

I have mentioned before how much I love my stained glass stars. They were one of the first things I packed up for the move and they will be one of the first things I UNpack. Every time I see my stars in the front window, it makes me feel so happy. I have gotten all of my stars from Kurt Knudsen's Piggy & Dirt Etsy shop.

I am very selective about products and artists that I support on my blog. Not only are Kurt's starts beautiful but they also come in some of the most lovely packages I have ever received!

I am craving this one for Halloween:

(image source)

And I need two sets of these for my Christmas tree:

(image source)

Think Santa might be able to find his way to my new home a bit early?

Moving On

2011-10-11T09:24:00.000-07:00

Finding a new home has been a stressful and humbling experience. We dearly love the house we have been renting for five years. It is going to be so hard to leave it. Beyond that grief, there has been the struggle to not only find a reasonable alternative but also to "sell" ourselves to potential landlords. A few times, we were convinced we found the perfect house only to be turned down by landlords who did not find us to be desirable tenants. Even though I know it's just business, it's hard not to take it personally.

After making us jump through quite a few hoops (that often felt humiliating), a landlord finally decided that we were acceptable. We have found a new rental home. It is a fairly big step down from our current home but it is nice and clean with a yard for Noodle (see above photo). We are moving this weekend. I feel better knowing we will have a roof over our heads and that we will be more or less settled before Halloween. I want so much for Noodlebug to be able to enjoy the holidays. I want that for all of us.

The freelance work my husband has been doing is improving and he is slowly adding to our family income little by little. I'm trying to view all the changes as the beginning to a new chapter in our lives.

2010 was the "annus horribilis" and it spilled a bit into 2011. I think these past two years have been a time of transition and change for us. Personally, I have been drawn to opportunities that allow me to work on myself. I have been reading SIMPLE ABUNDANCE by Sarah Ban Breathnach all year and I have taken both Soul Restoration courses offered by Brave Girls Club. I have been re-prioritizing my extracurriculur activities and trying to figure out the best fit for my family. I've tried to start exercising regularly and have become more active in my church.

I think when I look back at these two challenging years, I will discover how much growth and learning took place. I can't see it right now....but I will.

I'll be back online next week after the move and hopefully I will have gotten the chance to get my craft supplies organized in the new house. Thanks for all your good wishes. They helped!!!

Mary Engelbreit Online Store!

2011-10-05T15:37:00.000-07:00

(image source)

I just love Mary Engelbreit. I love her sweet graphic designs and I can never seem to stop myself from buying her products when I see them at Michael's. I'm bummed that I missed out on experiencing her magazine but I am so so happy to hear that she is opening an online store!!! The store open on October 10. Wahoo!

Check out the new store here and enter her contest while you are there!

Good Life

2011-10-03T08:33:00.000-07:00

It's amazing how it was the combination of unemployment and the loss of our home of five years that brought me to my knees. These are not insurmountable obstacles but it felt so big. It took me awhile to regain my footing and my perspective. We have been lifted up by friends and family and surrounded by love and good wishes. People that do not know me have sent me love and prayers and good thoughts. It has been unbelieveable. Only good things can happen. This is not the story of a family getting torn apart or about people facing deadly illness or the forever loss of a loved one. We are unbelieveably blessed. I believe in the power of prayer. I believe in the combined effect of goodwill and good wishes from others. Look at what happened in Amy Powers' life last week. Amazing. Thank you to all of you for lifting me up. I wish I could give each and every one of you a hug.

We have two applications in on two possible rental homes. Hopefully, we will know something by next week.

In the meantime, this is a Good Life. A good good life.

Can't get this song out of my head today:

Lessons Learned at ART IS...YOU 2011

2011-09-26T12:17:00.000-07:00

Art is...You was my very first art retreat. I had such a great time. Sallianne and Ellen are truly amazing women. I would never have the patience or fortitude to put on events of that magnitude and deal with all the myriad details and problems that arise. And they always seem to be in such a great mood!

I have discovered that there are several types of classes that one can take at a an art retreat. Some are strictly technique classes where you do not take away a specific project. Some are technique classes where you replicate a sample the instructor has given you. Some are classes where you are given a design to work off of but you provide the theme and/or inspiration. I have discovered that my favorite type of class is the last version. I love it when someone provides the basic framework and teaches the techniques involved but then lets me create my own vision. Shelly Massey's classes were like that. I left with pieces of art that I felt were truly my own. I LOVED Julie Haymaker Thompson's class and I learned so many techniques but I feel I just replicated her sample. (with the exception of the cat which is all my own) I love that piece but I don't see much of myself in it. However, I can now take the techniques I learned from Julie and do something of my own.

Everything is a learning process and I just feel good getting to create!

I also learned about the power in gathering a group of creative people together. I met so many wonderful women who quickly asked me my story and then got involved in it. Three women tied wish bracelets to my wrist this weekend. Two have already fallen off so I'm hoping those wishes come true soon. Even though these women don't know me well, they are sending me prayers and positive energy which is so powerful. I feel lucky to have been a part of it all and can't wait for next year!!! I hope you'll join us too!

Art is You Petaluma Day Three---DOGGIE IN THE WINDOW

2011-09-25T17:26:00.000-07:00

My last class was with Julie Haymaker Thompson. She taught us how to alter cheap craft store birdhouses into wonderful whimsical pieces. Of course, I had to do a cat instead of a dog:

Here is the other side:

So fun!!! Last night, at the Trunk Show I finally got to meet the marvelous Cathe Holden in person. Getting the chance to spend time with Amy Powers and Cathe Holden and getting to meet the wonderful Shelly Massey made my first art retreat experience complete. Can't wait until next year!!!

Art is You Petaluma Day Two----LICENSE TO CREATE

2011-09-23T09:31:00.000-07:00

I took my second class with Shelly Massey today. We continued our work with vintage license plates and made wonderful and whimsical boxes.

Here is one of Shelly's:

Here is my finished creation:

I did a "Bloom Where You Are Planted" theme with a funky flower growing out of an old shoe.

Goober shot from Shelly's blog:

See more photos from Shelly's classes on her blog.

I am taking tomorrow off and then return Sunday for Julie Haymaker's DOGGIE IN THE WINDOW class.

Art is You Petaluma Day One----PLAYTIME

2011-09-22T21:26:00.000-07:00

Day One of ART IS YOU!!!

The very first person I saw when I walked in the door was one of my very favorite bloggers---Amy Powers!

Not only is Amy incredibly talented but she is such a wonderfully sweet person. I cannot WAIT for her new issue of Inspired Ideas e-zine!

Amy and I both took Shelly Massey's PLAYTIME workshop. Here I am with Shelly and some of her wonderfully whimsical examples:

And here is my piece:

I've been thinking a lot about moons lately. My moon and stars are balloons.

Here is Amy's wonderful family portrait!

And here is Muriel's jungle-themed piece:

This is Prentiss' work in progress. It has a Alice in Wonderland theme:

Shelly is a wonderful teacher and her class was so laid-back and fun. I am taking another of Shelly's classes tomorrow. So far, so fun!!!

Here is a shot of one particular goober from Shelly's website:

(image source)

Making an Effort (and it's a big one)

2011-09-20T08:58:00.001-07:00

After a sleepless night filled with crying and gnashing of teeth, I am trying this approach today. ("trying" is the operative word)

Art Therapy

2011-09-19T08:46:00.000-07:00

This weekend I will be attending my very first art conference/retreat in my own backyard.

ART IS...YOU!!!

I registered for this event long before my current woes and I debated whether or not to attend. In the end, I decided that I really need this. I haven't done anything like this for myself in four years. The best part is that I don't have to travel somewhere in order to do it. I can come home to my family every night.

I am taking three classes. Two of them are being taught by Shelly Massey. I love her use of whimsy and color:

WORKSHOP ONE: Play Time

(photo borrowed from and owned by Shelly Massey)

WORKSHOP TWO: License to Create

(photo borrowed from and owned by Shelly Massey)

The third class I am taking is being taught by Julie Haymaker. I will have to incorporate a cat, of course.

WORKSHOP THREE: Doggie in the Window

(photo borrowed from and owned by Julie Haymaker)

I am almost done with my trades and I have been sorting through my crafting supplies in order to pack my retreat kit. I'm so excited!!! I will do my best to take photos and share them with you throughout the weekend. FYI---They are already planning another ART IS...YOU here next year so please think about coming out and playing with me!

P.S. Still no news on a new home. We are seeing two houses this afternoon and possibly one tomorrow. Hopefully, we'll know something soon!

ART IS YOU Seuss Ornament Swap

2011-09-10T15:34:00.000-07:00

I am desperately trying to finish some creative projects before all of my crafting supplies get packed away. Today, I finished my ornaments for the ART IS YOU Dr. Seuss Ornament Swap.

I made a little Lorax tableau inside of a candy container. I used some blue roving for one of the trees. Hopefully, it looks okay.

I'm halfway finished with my trades for ART IS YOU and I need to get started on my pages for the ABC Christmas Swap. I have 26 ATCs to make for that. Getting all my crafting supplies sorted and packed is going to be a huge job.

As the clock keeps ticking, we still haven't found a new rental home. Actually, we found the perfect one and the owners chose someone else. It was a big disappointment because I was so hopeful. I really thought our lives might be changing for the better. Now, we are left looking at teeny houses in bad areas. I am struggling to keep a stiff upper lip and failing miserably. I can deal with a lot but not having a home has brought me to my knees. I wake up each morning and count my many blessings but my heart isn't getting on board. All I can do is hope that we find something before we have to leave this house. One month to go!

Action Pack 6--Zap and Zest!

2011-09-06T12:24:00.000-07:00

A bright spot in my otherwise gloomy week---the arrival of the new Whip Up Action Pack! This issue centers around the theme of Zap + Zest!

Zap refers to electricity and battery experiments, poppers and fizzing reactions too, while Zest is focused on citrus fruits – mainly lemon! Lots of projects to keep you busy no matter what the season. Lots of science, cooking and some art and craft too!

This particular issue has a couple of projects suitable to the little ones too – try some Lemon stamping, Static electricity experiments (yes the little ones will love these), how about some lemon boats and making a vinegar volcano too! So excited to find some fun things to do with Noodlebug!

Buy your copy here!!! I'm going to get my own right now!

This is a printable downloadable emagazine – with no advertising and only $6 for 60 pages of science, creativity & cooking. It's a DOUBLE ISSUE extravaganza!

Considering the Lilies of the Field

2011-09-06T12:06:00.000-07:00

(image source)

Matthew 6:25-34“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?

And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."

Homeless

2011-08-29T10:05:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends.

It has been an emotional week. I came home last week to a "Notice to Vacate" on my front door. We have lived in our beloved rental home for five years. I came to this house as a bride and it is the only home Noodlebug has ever known. It was my hope and dream that when I left this house it would be to move into a home of my own. That is not to be. Our landlord has decided to move a family member into the house instead. We have to be out by mid-October. Adding this to the fact that my husband still doesn't have a job after over a year makes everything that much harder.

I started packing and looking at rentals this weekend. The rentals market isn't great because so many former homeowners are flooding it due to foreclosures. I am a nester. I don't need a big fancy home but do need a nice clean space for my family to live in. The rentals I saw (in our price range) this weekend made me cry. They smelled like smoke, had old dingy carpet, ancient appliances and sketchy neighborhoods. I was told I couldn't even paint any of the rooms to make them feel a little less institutional. It was depressing.

I'm really struggling right now to remain positive. I am trying to remind myself of my many blessings. I still have a job with benefits. We still have our health and people who care about us. Those are very big blessings. I haven't forgotten. But I'm having trouble holding it together. Especially when I am surrounded by the memories of everything that took place in our current house. When I look into the backyard at my husband's beautiful vegetable garden and realize that someone else will reap the benefits. When I realize we will have to say goodbye to our wonderful neighbors. It's very hard and there is a lot of grief along with the uncertainty about what will happen to us. All I can do is keep packing and hoping that we'll find a new home soon.

This song has been running through my head lately:

Time Out

2011-08-23T22:21:00.000-07:00

Life has thrown my family an unexpected curve. We're okay and this too shall pass but I need a few days to digest everything. Be back soon...

I Put Some [Red] Shoes On and Suddenly Everything's Right

2011-08-22T15:43:00.000-07:00

I think if these shoes were on my feet, my day would be a whole lot brighter:

(Image Source)

I'm glad they aren't in my size or I would be scheming to spend money I don't have in order to get them onto my feet.

I'm starting to feel as if I have bitten off more than I can chew. I joined a new swap (more on that later), I am working on potential Halloween costumes for Noodlebug, I am planning a 50th birthday party for my husband that is only a month away (yikes!!!), I need to make a circle skirt from a tablecloth for Dia de los Muertos, I need to tag items for the upcoming Just Between Friends sale so I can make a buck and then I need to do all the normal stuff I never get done.

I think I need a vacation.

Tale of a Goldfish

2011-08-19T10:14:00.000-07:00

Back in June, my husband tried his hand at winning a goldfish for our son at the local Fair. Money was lost but no fish were brought home. When the next local Fair rolled around a few weeks ago (the one where I won a blue ribbon for my knitted scarf), I thought I would try MY hand at winning a goldfish.

(not the actual game we played---image source)

I won!!! My 3-yr-old was so excited. He immediately named the goldfish Dorothy (those of you with children will know why) and we took it home. I felt proud I had rescued the fish from the Fair. I had some goldfish bowls left over from Noodlebug's first birthday party so we simply bought some rocks and fish food. The fish did not like its new bowl. There was a weird magnification effect going on. So, in my attempt to give this fish a better life, I invested in a 1 gallon tank with a bubbler and live plant. Everything went along swimmingly (pun intended) for a few weeks until the fish started to get white spots last Friday. Yes. It had the dreaded "ick" along with finrot. I cleaned the entire bowl thoroughly and put the fish back in. It got worse. On Monday, I skipped lunch and went to Petco for help. I bought water conditioner, fish medicine, another plant and a 5 gallon tank. I called in to work and said I was taking a long lunch and drove 18 miles home in my "Hail Mary" attempt to save the fish. I left the poor sickly thing in its new tank and returned to work. I could not stop thinking about this fish. I became consumed with saving it---spending money and time that I do not have. When I went to pick up Noodlebug at his grandmother's house on Wednesday, my husband called to say that Dorothy had passed. We chose to tell Noodle that Dorothy was on a playdate. After work yesterday, I stopped by a tropical fish store and picked up a new larger goldfish. And some better advice on how to take care of it. Dorothy 2.0 is now swimming along in the tank. Happily, I hope.

I felt real grief at the death of our goldfish. I am such an animal lover and I wanted to do right by that fish. It felt like some sort of negative commentary on my life that I couldn't manage to keep a goldfish alive. I struggle a lot with envy. I get really angry sometimes that I don't have the opportunity to be a stay-at-home mom. I get frustrated that other people are raising my child while I head to work each and every day. I got it into my head that things with the fish would have been different if I could have been home to take better care of it. I know that is kind of weird but I guess it's the place where I am right now. I'm hoping that this new fish will survive my lifestyle. And I'm hoping I will learn to make peace with it myself.

AUTUMN with Matthew Mead

2011-08-18T11:13:00.000-07:00

Fall is my very favorite season. It's a time of renewal and new beginnings. Not to mention beautiful color and one of my very favorite holidays. (hint: You get to dress up in a costume)

Last year, I bought a copy of Matthew Mead's Christmas HOLIDAY magazine. It is such a beautiful magazine full of lovely photographs and inspiration. I enjoyed it so much that I have purchased every issue since then. His latest release, AUTUMN with Matthew Mead will be released next month! (I ordered my copy back in July) This issue (along with previous ones) feature an appearance by popular blogger Stephanie Nielson. I'm looking forward to this one because Stephanie shares the details about one of her famous Back to School Feasts! I can't wait to see what inspiration awaits in this issue.

Get your own copy here!

P.S. This issue also includes one of my very favorite bloggers, Amy Powers. She is hosting a giveaway for the issue over on her blog. Find it here!

5 a Day Books: James Marshall

2011-08-15T09:43:00.000-07:00

I'm linking up to Imagination Tree's 5 a Day Book Challenge. This week, Noodlebug and I are reading the books of James Marshall. Marshall was another favorite of mine from childhood. James Marshall did the illustrations for one of my favorite childhood series by Harry Allard---the Miss Nelson books starting with MISS NELSON IS MISSING! I'm saving those for when Noodle is in elementary school. For now, we are enjoying Marshall's GEORGE AND MARTHA series.

I believe there are seven books in the series and our library had five on hand:

GEORGE AND MARTHA
GEORGE AND MARTHA ENCORE
GEORGE AND MARTHA RISE AND SHINE
GEORGE AND MARTHA ONE FINE DAY
GEORGE AND MARTHA ROUND AND ROUND

These are short books about two hippo friends. Adults will enjoy the humor and there are a few teaching points as well. Noodlebug didn't quite understand why Martha would be mad that George was spying on her in the bathtub. (She subsequently picked up the bathtub and threw it on George's head) It did make a good lesson in privacy. We also are very vigilant as a family about putting on sunscreen every day. Noodlebug often fights me on this. In one story, Martha refuses to put on sunscreen and ends up in bed with a very bad sunburn. What a great moment for me to reinforce the importance of sunscreen! So far, we are both enjoying these books very much. We'll have to look for the remaining two when we got back to the library.

Thought for the Day

2011-08-11T08:22:00.000-07:00

From Martin Buber---

“If they ask me in the next world,

‘Why were you not Moses?’

I will know the answer.

But if they ask me,

‘Why were you not [Amy]?’

I will have nothing to say.”

Come See Me on Facebook

2011-08-10T12:52:00.000-07:00

I've decided to try something new and I have created a "page" for this blog on Facebook. If you come and "like" me, you will get notifications of new posts in your feed. I'll try to keep only the most interesting posts there.

Go here to "like" me!!!

Action Pack 5 is Here!!! Wahoo!

2011-08-02T09:04:00.000-07:00

The latest issue of Whip Up's Action Pack is here!

This issue is all about Chalk and Cheese.

Those two very different materials that might look similar but are really not similar at all. In this pack you will find projects to keep you busy no matter what the season. From kitchen science experiments to outdoor art and craft projects.

40 pages of crafts, science, cooking and games exploring the theme of Chalk + Cheese:

Make chalk + cheese

Kitchen science

Chalk boards & chalk bags

Sidewalk games

Plaster crafts

Cornflour experiments

Plus More games, crafts, science & cooking.

This is a printable downloadable emagazine – with no advertising and only $5.

I can't wait to check it out! Buy yours here. I'm heading over right now to get my own issue.

Steampunk Explorer

2011-07-31T19:56:00.000-07:00

I didn't get many photos of the Rivertown Revival this year which is really too bad because it was AMAZING!!! I felt like I had stepped into a turn-of-the-century circus/sideshow. So many people decided to dress up.
Here I am:

You can't really see my bustle skirt which is too bad. It's quite nice. They had all sorts of wonderful vendors and food plus a great kids area. The kids could make clothespin dolls, watercraft made from toothpicks and wine corks or ribbon wands/bindle sticks. Here is Noodlebug waving his ribbon wand:

There were giant boxes of fabric strips. You just grabbed a pole and started tying the strips on. It was wonderful seeing all the children running through the event waving their ribbon wands. I'm sorry to say that Noodlebug wasn't in the mood to wear his costume. Perhaps next year I can get him in a Huck Finn outfit.

See more information and photos here. Next up.....September's Handcar Regatta in Santa Rosa.

Soul Restoration Book Cover

2011-07-28T17:12:00.000-07:00

I am a very uptight crafter. In fact, when I first learned how to knit, my teacher looked at me knitting and said, "You're a very tightly wound person, aren't you?" I guess I knit very intensely.

I am not very free-form in my aesthetic. I seem to unconsciously seek out right angles and straight edges. I am a terrible collage-maker because I can't let go and just place things willy-nilly. When I paint, I get nervous if things don't have well-defined edges. I'm sure there is lots of fodder for therapy in all of this. Probably reveals something about my need for control.

Anyway, I needed to make a cover for my Soul Restoration book. Here it is:

I visualized my soul house as a painting that is closed for restoration/refurbishment.

I hope this course will get me to loosen up a bit in my creativity. We'll see.

Pick Your Plum---Personalized Stamps

2011-07-28T08:27:00.000-07:00

Love the offering at Pick Your Plum today! Personalized stamps!!!

I ordered one for all Noodlebug's close friends. I think they'll make perfect holiday gifts/stocking stuffers. Especially for $6.50 a piece! ~~Less than 500 remain so hurry and get yours!!!~~ SOLD OUT!

Soul Restoration 1

2011-07-26T08:33:00.000-07:00

I'm starting this class today:

Wanna join me? Go here.

Just Because

2011-07-25T08:57:00.001-07:00

My little tiger---July 23, 2011

5 a Day Books--Eric Carle

2011-07-25T08:32:00.000-07:00

Linking up again with the wonderful Imagination Tree for 5 a Day Books! This week, Noodlebug and I picked out several books by Eric Carle. For his 2nd birthday, we did a complete VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR birthday party. And one of my favorite books as a child was THE VERY GROUCHY LADYBUG.

Here are the books we picked:

So far, his favorite is the 10 LITTLE RUBBER DUCKS. Eric Carle always has the most wonderful colorful illustrations. I'm hoping we can find time to do a few art projects surrounding these books.

Wanna Hear a Secret?

2011-07-21T10:07:00.000-07:00

Okay, here it is.....

I love dressing up. I am the girl that used to go to local Renaissance festivals and dress up in a corset and chemise or a gypsy girl costume. Back when the "Tomb Raider" movies came out, I meticulously pieced together a costume and wore it to every costume-themed event for the next year. I also had a "Matrix" costume but it was hard to wear because that latex was so darn hot!

I'm a bit older now and a bit (well....a lot) heavier so I am more conservative in my costumes these days. A few years ago, I joined the local Woman's Club. We have themed events once a month that always have an opportunity for costumes. This year, we have a Depression-era event in September, a "Mad Men" themed event in November and a Mad Hatter's Tea Party in March. I am already scheming and I have started hitting my local vintage shop searching for plus-sized period dresses.

Before all of that, however, there is a big event coming to my little town in two weeks. The Rivertown Revival. This fundraiser was new last year and brought out all the costume groupies in town. The theme was a sort of Victorian carnie/Steampunk style. I have been wanting to try my hand at a Steampunk costume for awhile so I have been slowy collecting pieces over the last year.

Here is the corset I got on Etsy from Damsel in this Dress:

(photo borrowed from and owned by Damsel in this Dress)

Obviously, I am doing the plus-size version. I also have a simple brown bustle-skirt coming from Clockwork Couture:

(photo borrowed from and owned by Clockwork Couture)

I already have a simple tie-neck blouse and a pith helmet along with some Victorian looking boots. I plan to be a Victorian-era explorer. I am dressing Noodlebug up in an old-fashioned newsboy outfit. Hopefully, I can pull this all together by July 30! I wish I could say that I am making my outfit but this requires a degree of skill that I just don't have. Thank goodness for Etsy!

Back to School with MasterLock

2011-07-20T11:27:00.000-07:00

I can't believe the new school year is almost upon us!!! I just love Fall and I used to love buying school supplies and back to school clothes.

Master Lock is asking bloggers for the best piece of advice that one can offer to students and fellow parents for surviving the new school year.

My personal favorite bit of advice is to help your kids plan out their weekly wardrobe the weekend before. You can use those hanging fabric cubbies or rod dividers to put together complete outfits. That way, kids can grab the appropriate outfit for each day and save time. No fumbling around each morning and wasting time deciding what to wear!!! It's also helpful to get everything that will be needed each day packed up and by the front door the night before.

I have used Master Locks since middle school but they have gotten really fancy! Check out these new styles!!!!

Love the colors and streamlining!!!! Find out more about Master Lock on their Facebook page.

I only wish Master Lock could help me come up with a way to remember my locker combination. I always forget when I'm at the gym standing in front of my locker in a towel.

(I am posting about Master Lock as part of the Mom Bloggers Club Master Lock back-to-school prize pack giveaway)

Holly Abston Bag----DONE

2011-07-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

Remember that cute Holly Abston fabric? Meet Noodlebug's new swim tote!!!

I ordered the fabric in a canvas-like material and lined the inside with iron-on vinyl. I chose some cotton blue webbing for the handles and just did a very basic tote. There are dozens of good tote tutorials online. My one recommendation is to make sure and do the great square corners to make the bottom nice and flat. It looks a little wrinkled because the downside of iron-on vinyl is that it tends to wrinkle when you turn your project inside out. Still, I think it will make a great swim bag for our next round of swim lessons that start tomorrow. And maybe we'll take it to the beach on Friday!!!

5 a Day Books: Steven Kellogg

2011-07-18T09:31:00.000-07:00

Today, I am linking up with Imagination Tree's 5 a Day Books scheme. Each week, you decide on a five books to read with your child every single day that week. When I am organized, I actually have a theme. I loved author Steven Kellogg as a child and I tested the waters with Noodlebug with his book THE MYSTERIOUS TADPOLE a week ago. Noodlebug loved it so much that we filled his library bag with Steven Kellogg books for this week.

So far, Noodlebug's favorite is PINKERTON, BEHAVE! He is fascinated by the bad guy robber in the book. I am always captivated by the detail in Kellogg's illustrations. So wonderful!!!

I encourage you to check out the Imagination Tree blog. Anna is a former early education teacher and lists wonderful preschool activities every single day. I always find so much inspiration on her blog!!!

Holly Abston Inspiration

2011-07-14T09:44:00.000-07:00

I love Holly's work. She creates the sweetest prints and can customize them to look like your own little one. I was tempted to get one of her latest Summer Boys prints until she posted that she has added her own fabric to Spoonflower. Look at this!!!

(borrowed from and owned by Holly Abston)

I ordered some right away and I already know what I'm going to do with it!!! For more information on the fabric and how to order it, go here. I'm going to keep anxiously checking my mailbox to see if it has arrived. If I only had more money, I think there would be a package from Spoonflower on my doorstep every day of the week!

Sew Liberated's Reversible Cape--DONE

2011-07-10T17:16:00.000-07:00

I just finished the Reversible Cape from GROWING UP SEW LIBERATED. The hardest part was piecing together the pattern!

I headed to Joann's armed with coupons and bought a nice linen-like red cotton for one side and a silky black for the other side. I was thinking he could do lots of pretend play with this combo: a boy version of Little Red Riding Hood, a magician, a prince, a Jedi knight (even though he knows nothing of Star Wars right now). I used a hair elastic and button from one of my old coats to finish it off.

I used the small size of the pattern but added four inches to the length and I rounded the hood a little bit.

What's Next?

2011-07-07T09:24:00.000-07:00

For my birthday back in May, I treated myself to two books that I have had my eye on. The first one is Sew Liberated's GROWING UP SEW LIBERATED:

I salivate over all the wonderful ideas every time I open this book and it is difficult to decide what I will make first. After seeing Dana's success with the pattern, I am contempating making Noodlebug a hooded cape. I have been slowly adding to Noodlebug's dress-up collection and I think this would make a perfect addition to the Pirate vest and Cowboy vest I made from Dana's tutorials and the Superhero cape I made from Jenny's tutorial. There is also a wonderful Explorer bag in the new book that I have on my Creative To Do list.

I also bought this book:

So many lovely things to make in here!!! Noodlebug's little girlfriend turns 4 this Fall and I'm thinking I need to make her a tutu along with a crown and wand. These patterns intimidate a little bit because they seem so complex in their construction but I've heard wonderful things about these patterns and I can't wait to try them!!!

I also need to start thinking about Noodlebug's Halloween costume. I am thinking about doing a costume for Max from WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE but I need a good pattern idea.

What are YOU working on?

Fifth is Wood

2011-07-03T10:15:00.000-07:00

Today is our 5th wedding anniversary. Hard to believe. I never thought I would get married much less have children and now, only five years later, everything has changed.

My husband and I always enjoy trying to come up with creative gifts that go along with the traditional anniversary gifts. The traditional gift for a fifth anniversary is wood.

I knew exactly what I had to get. One of Heidi's beautiful signs:

Heidi has been a blogging friend for many years and it makes me happy to look at this sign and think of the care and good wishes that she put into making it. Get your own here.

My husband loves to cook and grill. In fact, I hardly ever get to cook! I decided to get him a personalized cutting board to use out by the grill and I found this great one at Red Envelope.

He REALLY surprised me this year with his creativity and thoughtfulness. When I was growing up in Texas, it was still the tradition to sit outside on your porch or in your yard in the Summer months and watch the sun go down while you visited with your neighbors. I don't have my dream house with the wraparound porch yet but I still love to rock. When I went in our backyard, I found this:

Isn't it lovely?! What a nice surprise!!! And tomorrow, we will get to have fireworks in celebration of our anniversary. Well.....and the anniversary of our country of course!

Have a wonderful Fourth!!!

At the County Fair--Competitive Exhibits

2011-06-26T20:35:00.000-07:00

We had such a good time at the County Fair!!!

And Noodlebug won first place!!! This is his blue painting that he created at the Bay Area Discovery Museum Messy Art class:

And I used a tutorial from HOW DOES SHE? as my inspiration and made a wreath that also took 1st place! If you follow the link, you'll see mine looks a lot rounder and I arranged the balloons differently.

My husband submitted a photograph and took 6th place:

As an only child, I consider my closest friends family and I am proud to say that my friend Monique swept several categories. Here is her knitted and felted handbag that won 1st place:

And these are her three little handmade toys that all won prizes:

I'd say my family did pretty well at the Fair this year!!!

And there is still one more Fair to go! I'll post more photos of the Fair later.

Project Roundup

2011-06-22T09:01:00.000-07:00

I finished two projects this past weekend. One was a definite WIN...with a little tweaking. The other....FAIL. I will try to get photos tonight.

We're going up for our trip to the Fair on Friday. The whole family entered things in the various contests and I can't wait to see how we did. Plus, I just love seeing what my neighbors have entered.

Okay, here is the fail:

I made Noodlebug a pair of pants using Dana's tutorial. Even though her son is older, he is more petite than Noodlebug. I thought I took this into account when I was modifying the pattern but these still came out looking a little tight.

I think the problem may be the rise. Or maybe it's the fact that he is still wearing Pull-Ups. It just doesn't look right.

I also fixed his outdoor play tent but I don't have a photo yet. I used this tutorial.

Cold Comfort

2011-06-17T10:02:00.000-07:00

I am home today with my poor sick Noodlebug. He has some sort of stomach bug. I'm doing my best to make him feel better and we are doing lots of snuggling.

I recently bought a set of Tovolo Ice Cream Pop molds.

I loved making my own baby food so I thought I would try my hand at making my own popsicles. That way, I know EXACTLY what is going into them. These molds are about $10 and I like the fact that you don't have to buy popsicle sticks to go with it. You just reuse the bases that look like ice cream cones!

I just whipped up a batch of blueberry popsicles. Here is what I did:

One container of organic blueberries (about 2.5 cups)
1/3 cup of sugar
about 2 tsp. fresh lime juice
3 TB water

I threw everything in a bowl and used my immersion blender to puree. I then put a fine mesh strainer on top of small pitcher and pressed the mixture through the strainer to extract the puree and keep out the chunkier pieces. Then, I just poured the mixture evenly into the four molds.

I just popped them in the freezer and I'll check back in four hours to see how we did. Hopefully, Noodle will feel good enough to try one. I thought that sucking on a homemade blueberry pop on a hot sick day at home might be comforting. I'll let you know how it turns out!!!

Ideas for Summer Fun

2011-06-15T08:30:00.000-07:00

My friend Gary recently recommended this book to me:

I just got my copy yesterday and I am glad I did. Although Noodlebug is only allowed to watch a very small amount of television (PBS only---15-30 minutes per day), I want to limit it even more this Summer. I have been looking for ways to get us doing more things as a family and getting outdoors! This book has some great easy ideas for fun, active outdoor activities for kids and families. The book groups them by month so you have one activity for every day of the year that is appropriate for the season. I was happy to see that we had already been doing many of the activities listed for June. It isn't rocket science but if you need some ideas for getting outside with your family, this $10 could be a lifesaver. Find it here.

I am also a big fan of FAMILY FUN magazine. I always get great craft and activity ideas and I save every issue. I was excited to see that they have a new 'Badges of Fun' program in the current issue. You pull out the poster inside the magazine and do the current month's family activity in order to "earn" a badge which you download from the website. You then stick your badge to the poster. See the first badge above this paragraph. They are going to run the program for ten issues and we have hung our poster on the fridge to keep us motivated. You can download the poster and find more information here.

And don't forget about the fantastic Summer double-issue of ACTION PACK. I have been working on modifying some of the activities for Noodlebug and I already have plans to make him a utility belt.

Click on the picture to buy your own copy. It's a bargain at $6 and I can't wait to see the next issue.

What other resources for fun family activities have you found this Summer?

Win a Great Letterpress Poster!!!

2011-06-13T11:44:00.000-07:00

Please ignore the fact that I decided to wear no makeup for this photo and that is why I look like death-warmed-over. Or maybe like one of the victims of the SISTERS BROTHERS.

I just reviewed this book and was lucky enough to be selected to give away a lovely letterpress signed and numbered poster of the cover. Even if you don't read the book, I think the cover is pretty awesome from a graphic design standpoint. Plus, who doesn't love letterpress?

Read more about my review and the giveaway here.

Quick Toddler Duvet/Comforter

2011-06-11T17:32:00.000-07:00

(I folded back the edge so you could see the piping)

We converted Noodlebug's bed into a toddler bed back in February. I have been frustrated by the lack of nice toddler bedding. I still need to whip up some toddler flat sheets but yesterday I decided I needed to make a toddler-sized comforter/duvet.

I was inspired by this tutorial from Purl Bee. I started out by making some bias tape which I then turned into homemade piping using some cord I found at JoAnn's. The material is a heavier weight linen-type material which made it a little difficult to sew as close to the piping as I would have liked. Still, it came out okay. I came up short on piping so the bottom of the duvet looks terrible but I can always go back and finish it up later. Still, I'm happy with it. Not bad for few hours work!!!

P.S. The elephant was a homemade birthday gift to Noodle from my friend Monique. I am still waiting for her to make me one of my own!

Action Pack 4: The Great Outdoors Issue

2011-06-07T09:10:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited!!! The new issue of Whipup's Action Pack is here! This issue features 60 pages of activities, recipes, games and tutorials for kids (ages 7+) that focus on the Great Outdoors. I love the fact that these activities encourage kids to get outside. And there are plenty of "boy" activities!

You can find the following items in this issue:

- Campfire cooking recipes, Weather science experiments and Outdoor art projects.

- This Action Pack also has a super great section on Boredom busting games for car trips and rainy days. And we know there are plenty of those at holiday time.

- This Action Pack has a lovely big section on crafts: Including detailed instructions on how to make a must-have utility belt and bag , flower press and nature journal to take along on your nature excursions with you, and nature jewels and a woven fly swat that you can make while camping or hiking, from materials you can find along the way.

- This Action Pack also has a whole section on adventure and survival. Including how to make your own fish trap, fishing rod, how to safely light a campfire and detailed illustrations on how to tie seven different knots that just might save your life!

I'm not sure I even know how to safely light a campfire so that will be useful to know! Even though Noodlebug is too young to do a lot of these activities, I'm stockpiling ideas and I'm sure we can modify some of the ideas to make them age appropriate.

Get your own digital download copy here for the bargain price of $6!

(I'm off to get my own right now!)

Crowdtap

2011-06-06T08:55:00.000-07:00

I am one of those people who loves to give her opinion. Perhaps I just have a high opinion of my opinion but I love taking surveys and doing product tests. I am really picky about doing product reviews on my blogs outside of book reviews and I only belong to two affiliate programs. When I recommend something, I want it to mean something.

I was reading Momma Go Round the other day and she mentioned a new opinon site called Crowdtap where you can take surveys for cash and prizes for you and a charity of your choice along with the opportunity to do product tests. She mentioned that she has gotten all kinds of clothing for free. It's free to join so I'm going to give it a shot. Want to join me? Go here to sign up!!! I don't know about you but I love FREE!!!!

Here is how Crowdtap describes itself:

"Crowdtap is a revolutionary social marketing and research platform that enables you to be rewarded for ideating and promoting with leading brands, entertainment properties, non-profits and startups. Earn cash rewards for yourself and charity for taking surveys, sampling new products and promoting your favorite brands."

We'll see what happens! I'll keep you posted.

Time Flies (Sneak Peek)

2011-06-06T07:00:00.000-07:00

This weekend, I worked on my piece for Inspire Co.'s Birthday Treasury Swap. My partner, KL, has a style that is "Rusty, patina, layered, curiousities." I decided to go with a "Time Flies" theme for my box and used one of these 7gypsies charms as inspiration:

(Image Source)

As I worked, I realized how very "steam punk" my piece is looking so I had to add in a tiny bit of whimsy. It's almost finished and I'll be mailing it out this week. Can't wait to share it with you!!!

In other news, it has been rainy and cold here for days and days. Where is our Summer? Since we were stuck inside, Noodlebug and I pulled out a game he got for his birthday:

(image source)

This Life on Earth Bingo game is so cute!!! Since there were just two of us, I let Noodle pick a board for each of us and then I drew tiles from the box behind my back. I announced the animal or other natural object on the tile and then Noodle and I would look for the corresponding picture on our boards. He would get so excited when he had one.

"I have a platypus!!!!"

When one board was covered with tiles, we would both shout "BINGO!" and throw up our arms. We played it over and over again. It was a fun rainy day activity and we avoided the television.

One Foot at a Time

2011-06-01T07:46:00.000-07:00

One of the wonderful things about having a child is that you are often given the opportunity to see the world through their eyes. Like many of you, I am always in a rush trying to get everything done. I am constantly juggling being a wife, motherhood, working full-time, church, caring for my mother, serving on a local board and housekeeping. Everything always feels like I need to RUSH RUSH RUSH!

Noodlebug and I were downtown last weekend and we were walking briskly to a local store to exchange something. He abruptly stopped and said, "One foot at at a time, Mommy!"

At first, I couldn't understand what he was talking about. We were walking through a small plaza downtown and when I looked down I saw the pattern of rectangles that the pavers made. Noodlebug was carefully putting one foot in each paver while avoiding the cracks.

Look closely and you'll see the pavers (Image Source)

Instead of pulling him along and rushing to get my errands done, I made myself stop and join in on his game. And we slowly put one foot at a time in each rectangle. And it was fun.

Thank you, God, for giving me a child who reminds me to stop and smell the roses. And to put down "one foot at a time."

E-zines for Kids!

2011-05-27T10:05:00.000-07:00

Looking for some ideas for Summer activites? Try these wonderful and creative e-zines!

1. Alphabet Glue is the brainchild of Bird and Little Bird. It offers fun activities for young book lovers. Since I have always secretly dreamed of owning a children's bookstore or being a children's librarian, this especially appeals to me. I loved the first issue and am anxiously awaiting the second. So many great literacy-enhancing activities and all for the bargain price of $4.

2. The Whip Up Action Pack is another wonderful e-zine filled with activities for kids age 7 and up. Each issue has a theme and is filled with crafts, outdoor activities, cooking and more. The first issue was in March and the latest monthly edition for June will be coming out soon. Each of the issues are either $5 or $6.

Although Noodlebug is still too young for these publications, I am stockpiling them because they are filled with such great activities.

Pick Your Plum Today

2011-05-26T10:41:00.000-07:00

Aren't these Elizabethan-inspired iron flowers lovely? I like the idea of using them to hang photographs from. Today, you can get three of them for $8 at Pick Your Plum. Now I'm thinking about rehanging all my framed photos after seeing these lovely flowers!!!! They only have 34 sets remaining so hurry!

Set Your Piggies Free!!!

2011-05-26T08:00:00.000-07:00

Dana's post inspired me to look up one of my favorite Sesame Street bits. We love Ziggy Marley in our house!

It's raining now but I hope to set our piggies free soon!

If you need another laugh, check out this Elmo/Ricky Gervais bit. One of our favorites that always makes me laugh. When Noodelbug won't go to sleep, I always threaten to sing him the "Letter N Lullaby" and he says, "NOOOOOO!!!!"

Funny....I don't FEEL 36.

2011-05-25T08:36:00.000-07:00

Whoopee!!!

2011-05-23T20:30:00.000-07:00

I asked my friends for lottery tickets for my birthday. Everyone I know is having financial problems and when they insisted on getting me something, I thought a $1 lottery ticket would be affordable.

Here is the envelope I got today:

"Lucky" indeed. Inside I found this:

Ten lottery scratchers all the way from Colorado!!!!

I had Noodlebug help me scratch them off. Here are the winners:

That's right!!! We won $7.00!!!

All thanks to my friend Greg. Whoopee!!!!

AAAARRRRRRR!!!

2011-05-23T08:45:00.000-07:00

(Image Source)

Photo of my little guy contemplating birthday cupcakes. We attended a Pirates and Princesses toddler birthday party on Saturday. Which seemed like a good thing to do on Rapture day. I made Noodle's vest using Dana's pattern but I had to modify it for my giant 3-yr-old. (And I made my own bias tape for it!!!) I was going to make his hat as well but found a package of three pirate hats for $1 at JoAnn's. Had to make a few minor adjustments to spruce it up but I think it turned out all right. We are slowly but surely filling up his costume trunk!!!

Halloween and Vine---Another Reason to Come to Petaluma

2011-05-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

If you are a collector of Halloween art and ephemera, you cannot miss the annual Halloween and Vine show on September 24.

My friend Charles is a regular vendor at this show. I may be a little biased but I think he is unbelievably talented. Plus, he understands my love of all things whimsical. Check out his latest piece:

Isn't she wonderful? Like a witch out of a fairy tale!!! If you come to Halloween and Vine, you will have the opportunity to purchase this delightful witch. I can't wait to see the other wonders that Charles comes up with.

For another look at Charles' creative powers:

Charles made my veil from pieces of my mother's wedding dress. He also did my makeup.

Halloween and Vine is cross-promoting with ART IS YOU this year. So, come for the retreat and stay for the show. Make sure your pocketbook is full. There are simply too many wonderful things to buy. I came thisclose to buying a steampunk-inspired top hat last year!

Put Me in the Zoo

2011-05-19T11:07:00.000-07:00

Noodlebug and I had a nice day at the Zoo yesterday. I love the elephants. He loves the lions and tigers. Grrrr....

I have a deep love of animals. I have always felt conflicted about zoos. I hate seeing wild things contained. And some of the animals often look so sad. Especially the polar bears. They aren't meant to be kept in cages. No matter how gilded they are.

However....

Now that I have a child, I see the importance of zoos. Just as you can never get the true impact of a work of art by looking at it in a book, a child cannot understand the significance and beauty of an animal without seeing it in person. I can still remember the first time he saw a giraffe. Yesterday, he saw an elephant for the first time. He has two stuffed elephants that he sleeps with every night. I asked him if he thought the elephants would be big or small. He said big but he didn't know HOW big. He was a little overwhelmed when he saw one and wouldn't get near the railing at first. I want him to learn to appreciate these wonder creatures so that he will want to be steward and conservator of them.

I have a special love for giraffes and elephants because every time I look at them, I am amazed at how they came to be with the impossibly long graceful necks of the former and the expressive eyes and long trunks of the latter. They embody the wonder of God's creation for me.

In other news....

I am gathering inspiration for Amy's birthday swap. I have been paired with Kerry and I am sweating bullets. I can see from her blog what a talented and creative person she is and I don't want to disappoint her. I'm really going to have to step up my game. If you want to sign up for the swap, there is still time!!!

I am also working on making Noodlebug a pirate costume for a birthday party he is going to on Saturday. I'm using Dana's inspiration and already created my own bias tape. Here's hoping I can get it done!!!

3.

2011-05-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

May 18, 2008

One Year

Two Years

Three Years

Taking the day off to spend with my beamish boy.

Have a happy day!

Movie Town--Another Reason to Come to Petaluma

2011-05-17T11:53:00.000-07:00

We are only about four months away from Art Is You---Petaluma!!! Have you heard that Teresa McFayden will be the keynote speaker?

To continue my efforts to get you to come to this great event, I am linking up to a gallery of shots that show all the different movies that have been filmed in Petaluma. Because our little town has wonderful Victorian buildings and a great "Main Street, USA"-feel, such movies as "Peggy Sue Got Married" and "American Graffiti have been filmed here.

(Shooting a scene from "Inventing the Abbots"--image source)

See the complete gallery here:

LINK

(Are you tempted yet?)

Yee-Haw Cowboy Toddler Birthday Party

2011-05-15T16:30:00.000-07:00

The weather held off until after the party was over and a good time was had by all. The theme for Noodlebug's 3rd birthday party was a western/cowboy theme.

We made paperbag cowboy/cowgirl puppets:

(my sister-in-law models some puppets)

Designed our own stick horses using yardsticks and brown paper bags:

Panned for "gold" (small toys and fake gold coins) in the sandbox:

And took photos in an improvised photobooth:

I got the great photo quote sign from Etsy.

We served my mother's amazing chili, corn on the cob, hot dogs and watermelon.

I think it was a great success and all 30+ attendees had a good time.

(Noodlebug loved his strawberry ice cream cake)

Now, I think I will go lie down until MY birthday.

Impatiently Tapping Foot

2011-05-11T09:12:00.000-07:00

Just in time for Noodlebug's May 18th birthday and my May 25th birthday.

Can't wait for Amy to release this issue!

***UPDATE*** It's here! It's here!!! So beautiful and filled with butterflies!!! I have been so into butterflies and birds lately. I wish I had birthday crown of butterflies to wear. Maybe I'll make one.

P.S. Thank you for all the support and well wishes. I'm feeling a bit better. Especially thanks to a good friend or two. I'm working on some birthday resolutions because your birthday is REALLY the start of a new year. Hoping for better days ahead.

Wallowing

2011-05-10T08:58:00.000-07:00

I'll admit that yesterday was tough. All my favorite blogs and all my Facebook friends were posting their Mother's Day photos and the sweet homemade gifts their children made them. I don't have a Mother's Day photo. And I didn't get anything for Mother's Day.

I don't want you to think that I am a materialistic person who has to have "stuff." Actually, I much prefer giving gifts to receiving them. But I really really wanted a homemade gift from Noodlebug. Ever since I became a mother almost three years ago, I have been looking forward to the time when Noodle could draw pictures and make crafty things. I thought that maybe if I specifically said that I would like a homemade gift from Noodle that I would at least get a drawing. No such luck.

It is important for me to remember, though, that Noodlebug is my Mother's Day gift. Without him, I wouldn't be a mother. And that is all that should matter.

(Noodlebug's third birthday party is this Saturday. We're doing a cowboy theme and I am deep into party preparations. Posting will be light this week as I prepare but I'll be back with party photos)

conflicted

2011-05-06T09:52:00.000-07:00

(image source)

I was looking at this Nan Lawson image today and thinking about how it embodies how I feel right now. I am desperately clinging to hope while feeling like I just want to fly away. I'm supposed to feel happy about Mother's Day on Sunday but I'm not. I'm struggling with being sick while dealing with the constant conflict within my family. I can't take it anymore. I just can't.

Emily Dickinson said,

"Hope is the thing with feathers
That perches in the soul,
And sings the tune--without the words,
And never stops at all,
And sweetest in the gale is heard..."

Well, I am definitely in the midst of that gale and I'm clinging to my hope.

Introducing Pick Your Plum!!!

2011-05-05T10:41:00.001-07:00

I love flash sale sites! When I heard about a flash sale site devoted to crafty things, I almost wet my pants! Once I ordered a few things, I decided I had to become an affiliate. I know I will be checking in every single day to see what new treasures await!!!

Pick Your Plum...get it before your neighbor does.

Wait, hurry go over there and get it before they are sold out and then come back and I will tell you the rest.

This is their 2 week birthday today so they are celebrating with a $0.25 deal.

Three sheets of vinyl for $0.25!

It's the good kind that is used all over blog land.

They sold out of their vinyl sheets, Metal Handles, No Soli Signs, Vintage knobs...they go fast!

This is a new site with a cool concept. This site launched 2 weeks ago.

This site posts the most 'swank' crafting supplies that they find and delicately slap prim-o pricing on them. They showed their line up of supplies and goodies and They. Are. Good. On the list: hand painted vintage inspired knobs, retta ring table runners, metal plate holders, treat bags, and their prices ...just wait.

Here is the catch though:

They have limited quantities. So ya got to get it {{before your neighbor does}}.

You do have to pay shipping, but it always very reasonable.

I am excited to see what's up tomorrow!

So be one of the first to sign up on their email list and FB page and you'll know what's up and how fast you have to act.

For now they are posting one item per day. Good Stuff.

Don't worry though. If you get on their email list you can find out {{before your neighbor does}}***

Crafting by Candlelight

Kiwi Crates

Peculiar Valentines

Valentine's Eve

Create Club Recap

Make a Muppet Face (tutorial)

Team Ashley Auction

GIVEAWAY

Create Club

Poster Girl

Life Chronicles and a Secret

Bad Blogger and January Goals

Too soon?

What's in Store for 2012

Awesome

Breathe

Blessed

Say It Every Day

A Long Winter's Nap

Action Pack 8: Celebration!!!

Holiday Fun

Noodlebug Homemade Gift Redux--Lil Blue Boo

This is Making Me Smile Today

Matthew Mead and Status Update

Virtual Angel Tree

Spotted!

Cyber Monday at Pick Your Plum!!!

Giving Thanks

Update on Crowdtap **updated with Pinecone info**

Christmas Mouse

Mothers and Daughters

What I Have Been Up To

Stocking Stuffer?

Creatively Made with Jeanne Oliver

Scenes from Halloween 2011

Action Pack 7----Sticks and Stones

BOO to you!

The Kindness of ...

Supermodel

Highs and Lows

Oh My Stars!!!

Moving On

Mary Engelbreit Online Store!

Good Life

Lessons Learned at ART IS...YOU 2011

Art is You Petaluma Day Three---DOGGIE IN THE WINDOW

Art is You Petaluma Day Two----LICENSE TO CREATE

Art is You Petaluma Day One----PLAYTIME

Making an Effort (and it's a big one)

Art Therapy

ART IS YOU Seuss Ornament Swap

Action Pack 6--Zap and Zest!

Considering the Lilies of the Field

Homeless

Time Out

I Put Some [Red] Shoes On and Suddenly Everything's Right

Tale of a Goldfish

AUTUMN with Matthew Mead

5 a Day Books: James Marshall

Thought for the Day

Come See Me on Facebook

Action Pack 5 is Here!!! Wahoo!

Steampunk Explorer

Soul Restoration Book Cover

Pick Your Plum---Personalized Stamps

Soul Restoration 1

Just Because

5 a Day Books--Eric Carle

Wanna Hear a Secret?

Back to School with MasterLock

Holly Abston Bag----DONE

5 a Day Books: Steven Kellogg

Holly Abston Inspiration

Sew Liberated's Reversible Cape--DONE

What's Next?

Fifth is Wood

At the County Fair--Competitive Exhibits

Project Roundup

Cold Comfort

Ideas for Summer Fun

Update on Crowdtap updated with Pinecone info