Itchin' Stitchin'

Hexagon Patch

2012-02-10T15:09:00.000-05:00

Still addicted to hexagons over here! The small project is finished - I used some hexagon to make a flower patch for my painting pants. They have holes, paint splashes, glue spots, and other messy craftiness to them. Sometimes when I get busy at home I shamefully leave these pants on while we run to the post office or go to the store. One of the rips on the knees got too big, making them a little uncomfortable to wear. Now they are perfect. They are just a tad more fashionable to wear in public and it's okay if the hexagons get a little paint on them - after all they are my artist pants. Just wish I had an artist shirt I could add elbow patches to.

Whatcha Working on Wednesday

2012-02-08T14:21:00.000-05:00

Now that all major holidays are over, a baby shower has passed, and one child has become a year older I have more time. We are still planning things like 2 more birthdays only weeks apart, the little man entering preschool, and other excitement. This for us is slowing down.
So last night I was thrilled to start some fabric hexagons, after all they have been haunting me this past week. There is this lovely little quilt by Amy here, Alicia's amazing calicos, and then there are these this & that. I did take warning from all the other lovely hexagon makers that they would be addicting and they so are!

Being the ~~cheap~~ thrifty lady I am, I didn't buy my paper hexagon but rather used a 1" hexagon template here and printed them out. Got a fun little project planned for them and then maybe a more time consuming one...we will see.

I also did another page in my Finish This Book. Can't say enough good things about this book!! It's one of those happy purchases that I don't regret spending a little money on myself.
While my crafting list is growing longer and I keep adding to it - What are you working on...new recipe? a quilt? yarn goodness?

Denise's Quilt

2012-02-06T13:19:00.000-05:00

Denise's Quilt

Fabric: Joanne's, Fabric Depot, Osgoods

Embroidery Pattern: Here

Block Pattern: Modern Blocks

Pink polka dots, purple flowers, a sweet bird print, and metallic stripes. The fabric for this quilt just sang little girl while I was looking through my cabinet. It's not the perfect quilt, there are uneven seems, one or two blocks isn't correct, there is bunching, and the sweet note on the back is a bit crooked. While many of us try to be perfect, make everything even, and just right - it's not always necessary.

The quilt is not any less beautiful with it's imperfections. It's made with love, the most important thing. While I must admit that when I started quilting and saw that the message was getting pulled up, making it look uneven, my heart sank. Taking a break and stepping back to think what could be done to solve the problem, I realized I didn't want to solve it.

Remembering those class trips about colonial times and the ladies that use to sit down and embroider by the light of candle or fireplace, and how they use to make mistakes in their work on purpose. They use to embroider an "e" backwards or spell a word wrong because some thought that it being perfect would bring out evil jealousy.

While this to me sounded like those girls had a lot of self esteem, and thought very highly of themselves, this is not the reason I left the mistakes in my work. Instead I thought of a sweet little girl cuddling with her quilt on the couch when she's not feeling well, it laying on top of her while she dreams the most precious dreams, or hanging on her nursery wall for her to admire.

Just like everyone at the shower, Denise isn't going to care that the seams aren't perfect, that it's not lines up even everywhere, or that the message of love is crooked. The thing that will be perfect is the sweet baby that will be welcomed into the family. We are so looking forward to meeting her.

Superbowl Sunday

2012-02-05T09:47:00.000-05:00

Hope everyday has a good time cheering on their favorite team. As you can tell by the cookies we made, which team we will be rooting for.
Today is also my sister in-laws baby shower. The quilt is done and I also made a wonderful cake - can't wait to show you all - but until then get your war paint on and your favorite football jersey, cause it's football time!

Hand Embroidery

2012-02-02T13:27:00.000-05:00

Thank you all for the well wishes. I still have this sinus head congestion but what better to do than hand embroidery. Last night I stitched away while watching a movie and tonight I plan on doing the same thing. This square will be the middle of the quilt top for the baby quilt. Crossing my fingers - after this it will go faster. Somewhere in the mix I lost my rotary cutter which has been making cutting the fabric take a little longer. We searched the entire house... still can't find the rotary cutter but I know that once this quilt is done it will magically appear. The funny thing is I know I put it somewhere where little hands couldn't reach it, somewhere safe. Somewhere I can't remember. Do you ever do that?
Just a friendly reminder about my font swap ... last day to sign up is Feb 4th. If you did sign up, don't forget to fill out your profile with a little bit about what you like and don't like.

A Walk in the Woods

2012-02-01T14:44:00.000-05:00

Yesterday we took a walk into the woods. We made muddy footprints, heard the woodpecker, collected nature for display, and walked on mossy stones. All this spring weather has made me feel a bit yucky today.

I'm finishing up the quilt I started for my sister in-law and resting on the couch. With the little ones taking a nap and the house quiet, you can heard the birds chirping outside enjoying the sunshine. Has the season started to change where you are?

Her Party

2012-01-31T14:56:00.000-05:00

That morning she snuck down the stairs with her brothers to look at her cake. Pink hearts and purple star balloons were danced with. She shared with her brothers. Mom's eyeshadow was worn but no lipgloss cause it would make her talk funny. Her sweet tooth is still around, 2 1/2 pieces of cake were eaten. Outside a birthday wish was made with balloons. Many Hello Kitty presents were hugged.
A very successful 5th birthday :)

In A Fog

2012-01-27T16:08:00.000-05:00

Today is very foggy. When you walk outside you feel a slight mist on your cheek, like cloud kisses. My brain has left today.
It was a very late night last night, Aries had goldfish syndrome (where you don't know when to stop eating) which lead to her getting sick in the middle of the night. Never fun to wake up someone while they are getting sick, or trying to get them in the bath while they are half awake. While I do enjoy my quiet nights to get shop things done, it was clear last night was not going to be one of them. Instead it involved Yo Gabba Gabba, snuggles on the couch, and a little girl who likes to sleep sideways in my bed.
Rubbing my eyes this morning, I didn't want to get out of bed... it's one of those perfect gray days that's just cold enough to put a slight chill in the air making your covers so warm you don't want to move. Reluctantly I zombied my way throughout the morning. Hair a frizzy messy upon my head, a t-shirt longer than my sweatshirt, jeans that are becoming snug (so unfair), and with husband and kids in tow, we made our way to the post office and grocery store. While my youngest thinks he is famous, saying hi to everyone that passes the grocery cart, I am very thankful we are not today.
Hoping the fog will lift - both outside and in my head - because this weekend I have a list to finish. Are you doing anything fun this weekend?

Little Miss Aries

2012-01-26T15:10:00.000-05:00

Her favorite obsession is Hello Kitty

She can't decide between pink or purple

Interested in all things crafty

Looking good is fashion

Wears her ruby slippers everywhere

Loves painting her nails

Her hair is always wild and crazy

She sings and skips off the bus when she gets to school

Still likes to sit with mom

When she doesn't want to do something she says "Uuuu Fine"

Today is her birthday!! All night long while making her Hello Kitty cupcakes for school, I kept saying I can't believe she is 5 already. The girl who loves sweets and is just as sweet as them, grew up in a blink of our eye. Her birthday party is Sunday but today is her day.

Happy

2012-01-24T16:26:00.000-05:00

Moments of Happy ~

Today is my mom's birthday - Happy Birthday Mom!! I know this isn't a proper birthday cake but she forgives me.

Sundays football game, very happy husband and father in-law, the NY Giants are going to the Superbowl.

My moment of happy is coming ... when things that need to get done get crossed of my list. I realized today that I actually made a list for my list, a true sign you are very busy or trying to procrastinate.

Snowed In

2012-01-21T15:45:00.000-05:00

Sometimes it's better to just have fun with it then to fight it. Today there was a snow ball fight, socks worn as gloves, hands warmed by hot chocolate, and lots of snowy wet shoes piled in a corner.

Baby Quilt Blocks

2012-01-19T15:43:00.000-05:00

These blocks will soon be a part of a gift to my new niece. Being an only child, the possibility of being an aunt would only happen if I married a man who had siblings. Growing up with lots of aunts and uncles, and cousins to play with I never questioned that my children wouldn't have these same family experiences. It wasn't until I actually had children that I realized this wouldn't really be a part of their childhood like it was mine.

My cousins and I would spend days in the dirt building finger painted roads in the sand for our matchbox cars. Some of my cousins were in high school when I was younger and would babysit me, take me to concerts, and even introduce me to the fashions like rolling the cuffs or your pants or how to properly tease your hair to new heights. When I was in high school, everything came around full circle and the cousin that had watched me had a son, and I babysat him.

Baby Denise, who is due to arrive the end of March, will be my children's first cousin. She will make me an aunt and my husband an uncle for the very first time. We can't wait to meet her, smell her magical baby smell, and tickle those tiny little feet. I hope our children create cousin memories that will outlast the life of this quilt.

SOPA & PIPA - This is not about sisters!

2012-01-18T16:47:00.000-05:00

These are two bills that are before United States Congress right now. Big companies are behind these bills, because it's profitable to them. These bills will impact everyone!

If ████ ██████ SOPA ██████ ██████ passes ██ ████ ██ ████ ██ ████ the Internet ██ ████ ██████ ██ will look a lot like

You may feel like you're one person with one vote, small and unheard. If these bills pass you will be unheard! These are some links with more information and some petitions.

https://www.google.com/landing/takeaction/

http://sopastrike.com/strike

http://www.blackoutsopa.org/

White Stuff

2012-01-17T16:06:00.000-05:00

We finally got snow around here ... I'm okay if it wants to go away now.

2012-01-15T17:19:00.000-05:00

Today I noticed this little daisy. A good reminder that it is okay to be different and stand out from the crowd.

Sketching

2012-01-13T16:49:00.000-05:00

Maybe it's just a new form of procrastination. The weather has been rainy, foggy, and all out gloomy - not good for picture taking. My toes feel frozen. At night you can hear the wind pick up, rush through the trees, and then go silent again. The studio is too cold to sit in unless I bake something in the kitchen, which I am too lazy to do. Which leaves me to my books, a cup of coffee or tea, and my thoughts.

I'm A Sucker For You

2012-01-11T14:41:00.000-05:00

I've made some fun printable Valentine cards for Print Me Out! They can be used as merchandise tags, lollipop holders, favors, classroom cards, or party decorations. Being a mom of three buying those little cards at the store can be a task - usually they don't have the amount I need in one box for all the kids in the class, so I end up buying two or three boxes per kid. This year it will easy - just print them out - have the kids sign them and we are done.

Randomness

2012-01-10T16:36:00.000-05:00

Finally took down all Christmas items, then found 3 stockings under our living room chair
Without the holiday decorations the house feels naked
Hubby surprised me with orange daisies and homemade breakfast on Saturday
I'm not easily surprised
The breakfast was very good, which wasn't suppose to be the surprise but ended up being part of it

Bought lollipops for a Valentines day shop photo prop
4 have been eaten 0 photos have been taken
Have been doing the 365 Project and keeping on track
Working on a baby quilt for sister in-law and little Denise
Saved quilt blocks that have been completed, from peanut butter jelly hands today

Selfishly used a holiday gift card on myself the other day and got 3 Keri Smith books
I don't feel bad about it as much as I thought I would
Youngest has grown 2 inches in 3 months
His shirts look like 3/4 sleeve shirts and his pants look like capri pants
Got him two new pair of 3T pants that he will outgrow overnight
Glad I only paid $3.88 a pair
Started a fun typography swap - if you want you can join in here

Heart Garland

2012-01-05T16:10:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to show what I'm working on for Valentine's day. There are also some cute printable cards and lollipop tags in the works. This heart garland was added in the shop this morning. Thinking about making a rainbow hearts garland, all white garland, and.....not sure. Those little hearts are just so much fun to make.
Also Aries' birthday is just around the corner. Since she had a big birthday last year we are keeping her party small this year. Can you guess her theme this year?

Taking Down Christmas

2012-01-04T16:02:00.000-05:00

Putting up all the decoration for the holiday season is always the fun part but it's so much harder to take them down. Our tree is still up, even though Monday was suppose to be the day to dismantle. I think we may hang onto the holiday till this weekend. It would be much easier if putting it all away would mean winter went with it.

Little miss was very brave today. She had to get the flu shot - not by our choice - but so that she could continue going to preschool. The only dose they had was for infants so she ended up getting 2 shots. She went in happy, dancing about the potential for stickers, but came back holding her arm. We had to wait around to make sure she didn't have an allergic reaction, and while waiting she asked a little girl who just turned 2, if she would like one of her stickers. After going through the pain and deserving them she decided to share. At that moment I realized how fast she is growing and how proud I am.

2012-01-03T16:25:00.000-05:00

Today is one of the coldest days we have had this winter. You would never know that your nose would be nipped and the chilly air would turn your cheeks rosie red just by looking out the window. The plants are just waiting for spring with their bare limbs and the occasional stray berry, that the hungry birds haven't spotted yet. While the plants need to wait for spring, I can't be so lucky and even though I would like nothing more than to bundle in a tent full of blankets, my need to keep up with things is greater. Feeling organized is a great way to start the New Year.

Resolutions

2012-01-02T15:16:00.000-05:00

This year I resolve to create more and think less.

Sometimes I have a tendency to over think the simple things.

What are your resolutions this year?

A Year In Pictures

2011-12-31T15:02:00.002-05:00

What a year!! 2011 came in with a scare but I'm so happy it's ending on a happy note. This New Year's eve will be the first one in a very long time that I get to give the hubby a New Years Kiss.
I can't thank all of you enough for the lovely comments throughout the year. This little blog has become something bigger than I could have imagined! Here is to a new year full of hope, wishes, and a magical start :)

The Lefton Christmas Angel Story

2011-12-28T23:42:00.001-05:00

Amanda,

Now that we are one day after Christmas, I'm going to tell you my Christmas Angel story.

My wife Colleen was born on 12/28, and she received a little Lefton Christmas Angel for her 5th birthday in 1958. This little red, white and gold ceramic angel was one of her prize possessions and it occupied a place of honor in our China hutch. About 10 years ago, as Colleen and I were moving the hutch away from the wall because we were repainting, the hutch tipped slightly, its door opened and the little Christmas Angel fell out, shattering into so many pieces on our hardwood floor that it was unrepairable.

Since then I've heard Colleen mention on many occasions, that she used to have a precious little Christmas Angel, but Mike broke it several years ago. Well, after searching and looking for many years, and looking at hundreds and hundreds of little ceramic angels, I found the replacement at your Itchin Stitchin website!

Imagine my excitement, when I opened your package to discover what was indeed a replica of my Colleen's missing Christmas Angel!

Colleen opened her present yesterday, in the company of her 91 year old Mother, and they both agreed that this was just like the Christmas Angel that she treasured for so many years.

I really, really appreciate that you were able to make my wife Colleen's dream of having her Christmas Angel back come true.

Amanda, you definitely rock!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to you,

I will always remember you,

Mike

This is the very reason I love selling vintage. Treasures that hold memories and have a story. I'm so over joyed that this little Lefton Angel brought such Christmas cheer to one of my customers.

The very reason that one of my New Years resolutions is to never give up.

Just like Mike, one day you will find your angel.

Buster Christmas

2011-12-27T15:27:00.002-05:00

This weekend was crazy around here. Those small adults kept coming up to me petting my head and saying only 2 more days, 1 more day, SANTA is coming tonight. Not sure what it all meant but I got strict instructions from the oldest not to eat the man that looked jolly in the red suit because they wanted presents.

I must have did a good job because there were presents under the tree for me too! They were...

giant bones!!! I didn't even make a wish list .

I tried my best to eat them all that day. It only made me tired.

Later on there was some snuggling on the couch. What?! Guys snuggle too!

Hope everyone else let that man with the red suit into their house.

2011-12-23T15:31:00.000-05:00

Free Holiday Gift Tags

2011-12-20T17:23:00.000-05:00

With the holiday right around the corner, (there is a literally a count down happening at our house) I would like to give a gift to all my friends out there. So what better than some printable gift tags!

Just download the pdf file, print, and cut out.

Click here to download the PDF.

Happy Holidays :)

Crochet Button Baby Booties

2011-12-17T14:53:00.000-05:00

Say that three times fast! Just finishing up some wonderful handmade Christmas gifts. These little booties are for my sister in-law who is pregnant with her first child, a little girl. When I saw the sweet design on Ravelry I knew I had to make them. The funny thing is that just while I was crocheting along thinking about how nice it will be to hold another baby a friend texted me with a good news. She is pregnant too!!

Guess it looks like there will be more baby booties to make :)

Christmas Decorating

2011-12-15T17:10:00.000-05:00

Every year is different. Not the putting up the tree part, that always happens the day after Thanksgiving. The kids always help and the tree usually looks bare at top with a cluster of ornaments in one spot. At night us parents rearrange everything without them being any the wiser.

The part that changes every year is the general decorating. Candles, garlands, and other festive bits always manage to find their way around the house. This year was no different. We finally have everything put out just the way we like it. Center stage this year is the kids creations. A paper decorated tree, cotton ball snowmen, hand print wreaths, googly eyes gingerbread men, popsicle stick reindeer, paper plate school ornaments, and tissue paper candle.

For some reason it feels extra cozy this year, no fireplace needed. Still working on our Santa lists, holiday cookies, and a few handmade gifts we are in good shape for a Merry Christmas. Are you ready?

Happy Mail

2011-12-13T22:33:00.001-05:00

Absolutely love opening my mailbox to happy mail!! There were two things to be excited about this time.
First was an ornament from my dear vintage soul sister. She gets me.

It was a total surprise. If only she could see my reaction when I opened it. Isn't it just beautiful!!! The ornament is from Jupiter Designs - and I adore everything about it.

Thanks so much Micaela!!!

The other surprise in my mailbox was a giveaway I won over at NanaCompany. Lady luck must have been on my side that day because there were a lot of entries. What I won was an amazing quilt blocks book called "Modern Blocks" and Amy herself has two blocks that she designed featured in the book. Just flipping through this book gave me tons of ideas.

Amy also included some great little extras as well. Can't wait to use those trims! The handmade trivet is beautiful.

See all those tiny little hand sewn stitches?! Thanks so much Amy. I don't think it will be mine for much longer though. Someone, who will remain nameless...but not pictureless, has already proclaimed it hers. This is the very reason she didn't see me open my package from Micaela :)

Smocked Knitted Winter Scarf

2011-12-08T14:33:00.000-05:00

Pure perfection. You can't miss me in this coat. Dear hubby quietly had doubts about this coat but has come around.

While I started making my smocked knitted scarf for my brown suede coat I think it looks just as swell on this one. Smocking was intimidating. In fact I did it the "old" way and read about it in the book The Complete Guide to Needlework. Questioning myself I decided to research the technique a little and discovered that many people actually knit the smocking while they are making the scarf - the "new" way.

After basting several threaded lines - 18 to be exact - I crossed my fingers and started the smocking. It turned out better than I could have imagined. Each end has a bit of smocking, giving the scarf a more feminine feel. The edges become more scalloped and ruffled, just enough to make a statement.

When I wear it I feel like I am doing just that ... making a statement!

Salem for the Weekend

2011-12-05T21:07:00.001-05:00

This weekend was a trip to Salem. It was perfect!! What a lovely day to walk the quiet streets, smell the sweet earthy smell of herbs in Wiccan shops, and soak up the history of clap board houses. A day without the children was a much needed rest, even though your mind always thinks about them and their names sit of the tip of your tongue waiting for the opportunity to escape your lips. Hand in hand we strolled neighborhoods and dreamed big dreams. Eyeing every empty shop window with a hope of opening my own. Lunch at the Lobster Shanty - where the owner spied us looking at the menu, an offered us to come in early for brunch before they officially opened. Strangers passed us with a greeted hello. Salty wind filled the air. Stopping at a yarn shop full of color, along with a fabric shop with reproduction feedsack prints, and a botanical shop- we got a treat just for us. As we got in the car and drove through the winding streets, we thought about the magical little town and the happiness it brought.

Dabbling Definition

2011-12-01T16:41:00.000-05:00

Dab.bling verb \-b(ə-)liŋ\:
The art of starting more than one thing with a bunch of little somethings but never truly finishing anything.
ex: Amanda has been dabbling in her studio all day.

Ornaments

2011-11-29T15:10:00.000-05:00

Things are looking up around here. It's great when unexpected happy things happen like finding out your garland was featured on CRAFT, also in Etsy Finds, and you get a call for an interview for the career your going back to school for! I'm so thankful for all these happy things.

Guess when you fill your life with happy things like making ornaments for Micaela's ornament swap - it spills over. Putting some lovely paper snowflakes on vintage lace, filling it with pretty red, green, and silver sequins, in a glass ornaments makes a beautiful display on your Christmas tree. Hopefully my ornament swap partner feels the same way.

Also can't forget the small crochet red heart that is attached at the top. Some love and warm wishes to bring in the season with. I had to thank the lovely hostess of this swap. So with my crafty hat on I decided to make Micaela an ornament just for her.

Sharing special moments and memories is a special part of the holiday season. When I saw a picture of her wedding kiss on her blog I knew it was just the memory you always want to remember. Here is how I made her ornament:

Materials ~

Spray glue
Clear glass ornament
Digital photo printed on photo paper
Twine, string, or vintage lace piece
Sequins

How to ~

Print out your photo twice making sure one of the photos is flipped horizontally so that when matched back to back the shapes match. Also note the size of your ornament and size of photo - make sure to print it small enough to fill the inside of the ornament.
With the pictures back to back cut out the photos. Place one photo face down on a surface that can get messy with spray glue. Spray the back of your photo and place your string or lace in the middle, leaving a long tail going to the top of the photo. Place the other photo's back on top - making a photo sandwich. Let spray glue dry.
Fill your ornament with different color sequins.
Once photo is dry, roll your photo like a tube so you can fit it the opening of the ornament. Carefully take the metal top of the ornament fit the photo through the glass opening.and hold the string or lace so that it's still coming out the top of ornament. With a pen or long thin object push your photo against the sides of the ornament to unravel and straighten it out.
Thread your string or lace through the metal top of the ornament, then carefully replace the metal top back onto the glass ornament. Pull your string or lace so that your photo hangs in the middle of your ornament and tie into a bow at the top to secure it.
Hang your ornament and enjoy!!

Crossing my fingers that the bubble wrap, tape, and super strong box are enough to have them arrive in one piece. I hope my little ornaments bring a bit of my happiness to them :).

New Coat

2011-11-25T14:49:00.000-05:00

This is my new coat! I saw it about 2 months ago at Old Navy. It stayed in the back of my mind for awhile as I didn't need a new coat, or did I? The coat from last year was too big with some weight I lost and the one from a couple of year ago was still a little snug in my arms. So when I saw that this Black Friday my dream coat was on sale - I got it! Crossing my fingers that the scarf I've been working on looks okay with it.

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-23T15:01:00.000-05:00

I want to wish everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving!! This year I am so grateful for many things including my little shops, everyone who visits and reads this blog, and of course all the new friends I have made.

So as a thank you I am offering 15% off anything in either shop (Print Me Out and Itchin Stitchin - including *custom orders) starting now until Dec 1st. Just use coupon code GOBBLE !
So get ready, get set, GO get your food coma on :)

*If interested in a custom order please message me - I can make custom business tags, headers, banners, blog designs, snowflake garlands, quilts, blankets, bags, or anything else you have seen here or in my shops that you want personalized

Harvest Potholder

2011-11-22T12:18:00.000-05:00

With all the cooking that is in store ...

a new harvest potholder was in order.

Trim the color of pumpkin pie

fun little details like brown sugar on top of carrots

I just can't wait to cook the day away.

Happy Things to End the Week With:

2011-11-18T14:47:00.000-05:00

The title to this post and idea have been stolen/borrowed from my dear friend Micaela mostly because she is awesome and because she is hosting an ornament swap that has made me get back into my happy crafting place. I've been crocheting away some snowflakes and not feeling guilty about it one bit. For once I feel caught up. Housework is in check, shop is in order with new things being added daily, and started college online. Making my partners ornament has put me in a holiday cheerful mood.

Another thing to smile about this week is the fact that hubby and I have finally agreed on something - and it's a big thing. Now I'm sure that most of you are wondering why this is something to smile about, as we are husband and wife and are suppose to agree together, but I'm not talking about a compromise here. This is that we whole heartily agree, which is the rarest thing because we are opposites. I'm the ever changing, big dreams, high hopes person, and he is more rooted, sensible, we will see when we get there, kind of person. So now with a goal in mind we can see where we are going and we can get there!

Another cheery bit is that my studio is tidy. It hasn't been this organized in awhile. So with the weekend knocking on the door I can't wait to sit at the sewing machine and whip up some new things. My only plan for this week is to not have a plan.
So what happy things are you ending your week with?

Things That Make Me Happy

2011-11-15T15:11:00.001-05:00

After a let down of a week I needed somethings that made me happy. My list included:

* Crafting new items for the shop

* Organizing the studio - including color coordinating the threads

* Making cupcakes with the kids

* Getting an extra special package in the mail from a wonderful friend

* Realizing it's candles season

* Almost finishing my scarf

* Deciding to go back to school

* Reading all my favorite blogs

What makes you happy when you're feeling down?

Blah

2011-11-11T12:42:00.000-05:00

Thanks everyone for the well wishes on the election. Guess there may be things that are bigger and better in my future because I didn't get the majority of the votes. I'm not going to lie, I don't take losing well and often don't give up on things but this time it's different. My experience with this election felt like every time you got a glimmer of hope you realized that it was just the sun reflecting off something.

Trying my hardest to not make this post all BLAH and feel sorry for myself ..because this isn't what I am about, we are looking to our future. When people in town or others come up to me and say they are proud my eyes only water because I don't feel very proud. It hurts my heart to know that people can complain about things but not take a moment to try to make a difference. In a way I feel like my family doesn't belong here.

So with that being said we are exploring options. Not exactly sure what that is at the moment, whether it's a new career, new scenery, or maybe both. Whatever it is, it's options of a new beginning, a fresh start, and a place to belong.

Drum Roll

2011-11-06T23:21:00.000-05:00

And the lucky winner of my new shop, Print Me Out, digital tags is........................

VIVIENNE!!!

Congrats! If you haven't visited Vivienne's blog please do so. Her knitting skills are amazing and in fact her work inspires me so much, along with her kind words that I did a lovely blog post about this dear blogging friend. Some people just touch your soul and warm your heart. Vivienne is one of those wonderful ladies who does just that. So congrats congrats congrats!

Things are doing okay on the political front here. It really makes you aware of what politicians go through. Let's just say I am okay with just being a part of local politics :) So if I'm absent a little bit it's because I'm waving signs and reminding people to vote... I will be back soon I promise.

Easily Distracted

2011-11-04T16:40:00.000-04:00

Wishing and hoping to get back into my crafty zone real soon. Lately I've had other responsibilities that require my attention. Crossing my fingers and thinking positive thoughts for Voting day on Tuesday. The whole thing has my stomach in knots. That is why I am trying really hard to easily distract myself at night ...but my mind always goes where it shouldn't.

**Just a reminder to everyone that my tags give away for my Print Me Out shop is ending soon...really soon :) You still have a chance though!! Visit here to enter.**

The Halloween That Wasn't

2011-11-01T18:47:00.000-04:00

This year our Halloween plans didn't go as usual. As pretty as this picture is, I was cursing the snow on Saturday. Noreasters, large snow storms, and low temperatures are a normal thing around these parts. In October not so normal and couple that with large widespread power outages ... really really not normal. So on Saturday, the hubby and I were talking about our plans for the weekend. That day was suppose to be our busiest ... a fun hayride, pumpkin picking, ghost stories, face painting, and apple cider were all scheduled in the morning at the Little Goblins Halloween Party at R Farm in town and later that night a political Steak Dinner. Crossing our fingers that the white stuff wouldn't start falling until later that night, we were shocked to see it around lunch time. Our holiday festivities were cancelled. Not to worry all was well, we thought, as we gathered our snacks and decided it was a movie night. Until the lights starting going on and off. OH NO! They stayed out. Looking at each other Rob and I were starting to get Hurricane Irene flashbacks. With a sudden realization that without power meant we were without heat we packed the kids up and headed to my mother's house. Huddled by the wood stove we pretended it was like the pioneer days but the kids just weren't having it.

The next day started with 2 exhausted cranky parents. Our political dinner was rescheduled to this day and we prepared the best we could. Luckily the generator was started and a hot shower washed away some of my mood. We all had fun at the dinner, meeting local residents. Damien was excited about the raffle proclaiming we would win and that we did ....5 times. Sharing out wealth I went over to another table and handed them a winning ticket. With our goodies in tow I prayed we would come home to power. Chanting all the way home " We will have power We will have power" and saying "Bam they have power" to every house we saw with lights. All that positive energy must have worked because the lights at our house were on! Thank goodness because I don't think I could take another pioneer night. We were the lucky ones. There are still 700,000 or more Connecticut people without power. Monday school was cancelled and so was our Halloween as my in-laws are still without power. Odyn's costume never got completed with all the craziness. So we did the next best thing. Hopping in the car we went to the store and let each kid pick out a big bag of candy all their own. Even though this was the Halloween that wasn't we still feel thankful for all that we have.

2011-10-27T16:23:00.000-04:00

With the first snow fall right around the corner, literally, the zinnias that were in my garden got clipped. Happy go lucky Mr. Grasshopper was hanging on for dear life to one of the flowers. It wasn't until my surprise when I started to trim the flower for the vase that I noticed him. There was a bit of a scramble to get him out the door before he hopped away or Buster decided he was a tasty snack. I told you he was lucky.

Flowers on the kitchen windowsill always make you smile. They don't have to be purchased at some fancy florist or perfect. The best are small clovers picked from the kids or weather beaten flowers from the garden. We have a small collection of leaves hanging around for Damien's school project, along with Odyn's rock collection, and Aries decided to pick some wheat looking grass along with some pine cones the other day. It all sounds like a fine looking wreath for our door to me :).

Slowly the list I created at the beginning of the week is getting done. Including Aries' Dorothy costume. Sorry the last picture is blurry but unprompted the comedian who likes to keep up with the boys (just look at her bruises, scraped, dirty little legs) decided to do this cat model pose. It was all I could do from bursting into laughter when she did the "meowwww" to go with it. Notice the front of the ruby slippers are losing their glitter and redness, it's only because she needs to wear them everywhere - Grocery store? Yup! School? Oh yes! To sleep? I have had to take them off while she slept!
I didn't use a pattern to sew it up - just decided to clip, cut, and sew it. Surprisingly my measurements seem to be just right - a little high on the sides but more than likely the chilly night air will be a factor. Dorothy had to wear tights sometime right?!

Knit, Sew, Jacket

2011-10-24T12:24:00.000-04:00

Outside the air smells like crisp fallen leaves, earthy pumpkins, and cabin wood stoves. At night it's starting to get chilly enough to huddle under a blanket and curl your toes under your loved ones leg. With winter right around the corner I have been trying to make time to knit my scarf. Against the bright white snow, and my cherry colored nose in the winter, I think it will end up looking rusticly perfect on me.

There are still some sewing that needs to be done before Halloween. Miss Aries has one blue gingham Dorothy apron that needs to be cut and sewn. Odyn's traffic cone costume is in the works and Damien has all the items needed to be the perfect Star Wars Clone Trooper. While out shopping for all the tid bits a Yoda costume caught my eye for Odyn. There was some debating on making a costume or buying one but when the costumes sound like a beginning of a joke, " A Clone Trooper, Yoda, and Dorothy walk into a bar.." , it's best to stay with the original plan.

In the works is a special little jacket . If only time would slow down a bit and spare a couple hours.

Being a Lamb

2011-10-19T22:10:00.000-04:00

Yes lately dear hubby has been getting a lot of hunny do lists. You know the lists that say hunny can you please take out the trash? Or hunny can you please take Buster out before you leave work? Mostly these lists are written in a hurried pen flying pace, with kids grumbling can we go yet, and my mind making a mental checklist to make sure we have everything we need before we step out the door. 99% of the time it's the diapers I forget, which become mighty important later. So my thought is maybe, just maybe, if we leave sweet little notes for our hunnies out there they would think it was sweet and not just ploy to get them to do more things. Unfortunately mine reads my blog - so the jig is up for me. It doesn't have to be for you though! In fact I thought I would be a lamb and make you some stationery for your note.

All you have to do is click the picture. It will bring you to the original size, which is 4 x 5.75 inches. (The reason for the weird measurement is ...if you set your printer to print 2 of them, they should print out nicely on just one 8 x 11.5 paper.) Right click your mouse and choose "save image as". Name it whatever you like and then TADA! You can print it out. Please use it for your own personal use, not for resale. Feel free to share the happy news on your blog but link back to my blog for the stationery.
Hope it brings some joy into those little lists and more free time for you. Enjoy!

Unstacked

2011-10-18T11:23:00.000-04:00

Some days you just feel like your coming unstacked. This week has been super busy and it's only Tuesday. With the holidays right around the corner I'm trying to get somethings in order. Organization is key. These lovable children of mine need some attention, along with some custom order snack bags I've been making. Good news is I have some fun crafty things that I will be able to show you sometime next week. This week is just ...well...hectic :)

Did I tell you?

2011-10-14T23:36:00.003-04:00

I just realized I have been keeping some secrets. Not on purpose of course! Well the first one is that I am running in my local political race as town tax collector. Being a girl scout and going door to door selling cookies was little easier than going door to door this time. Maybe it's the cookies. So if your local and you see me on your doorstep, I promise I am not selling something, I'm just there to introduce myself. Let you see that I don't have horns sticking out of my head and that paying taxes is never fun but I can try to make it be.

Secondly or should I say lastly, this is my new Etsy shop. So you don't have to print this out...unless you want to. My other shop (Itchin Stitchin) is still open but this new one (PrintMeOut) is solely dedicated to printable crafts. What you will find in there is gift tags, labels, stationery, collage sheets, cards, and other paper crafts. All the images are vintage ephemera inspired. So it's full of great kitschy retro cuteness.

So want to help me celebrate? Do you like GIVEAWAYS!?!?! I figured what better time than right now to have a giveaway of the peachiest kind. So here are the details!

One winner will get to pick 3 tag sets from my new shop. New ones are being added all the time! My tag sets come with 4 different designs each that measure 2x3 inches, print on 4x6 paper, are in JPEG form, and are in 300dpi high resolution quality. If I am confusing you with numbers that is 12 different tags that you can print over and over and over again.

How to Enter:

Please leave a separate comment for each one and a way for me to contact you!!

1. Visit my new shop and show it some ♥ love. Heart my shop on Etsy and come back here and tell me for ~ 1 Entry

2. Tell me what your favorite item is so far from Print Me Out for ~ 1 Entry

3. Follow my blog through google friend connect or if you already do (Thank You!) leave a comment for ~ 1 Entry

4. Tweet about this giveaway using this tweet: @ItchinStitchin opened her new #Etsy shop and is doing a #giveaway to celebrate!! Go check it out at http://tinyurl.com/3ctd24o

Come back here, tell me you did, and get ~ 1 Entry

5. Facebook like ItchinStitchin or if you already do (Thank You!) leave a comment saying you did for ~ 1 Entry

6. Post a blog post, say something nice about me on Facebook, or spread the word in anyway about the shop or my blog - post the link here so I can read it for ~ 2 Entries!

Rules ~

There are multiple ways to enter. Giveaway ends November 5th, 2011 12pm Est and comments will be disabled on this post. 1Winner will be chosen by Random.org on November 6th, 2011.

***Please remember the prize is for personal use only, I dislike having to even mention this because I don't think any of my readers would do it, but Resale of the tags digital or in printed form is a No No - Thanks and GOODLUCK***

Present

2011-10-13T17:37:00.000-04:00

I love when you get all snuggled up in bed, wrap your cozy blankets around you, and lay your head on your pillow, only to discover someone left you a present. Not just any present, but one of their favorite toys at the moment. Poor Harold the Helicopter has been left outside in the rain, dragged through puddles, and just plain beaten up on. He was tucked inside my pillowcase by a special little man with a twinkle in his eye and mischievous grin. Just thinking about his little hand and the helicopter plan makes my heart melt.

Hold On!!

2011-10-11T23:48:00.000-04:00

Okay, so now you might be noticing some changes around this little corner of my world.
It's not finished yet ...but I got a question for you, my reader. When do pictures become obnoxiously too big?
Here are some choices ~
Choice 1:
The same of the same...

Choice 2:

A little big bigger now...

Choice 3:

Is this TOO big?

Let me know what you think - after all you are the ones reading this. (I changed some of my previous post to choice 3 so keep scroll down to get a real feel of what it will be like)

Everywhere

2011-10-11T17:03:00.001-04:00

It seems like it was rainy here forever. Then just one day it was August. The leaves have never looked brighter. Some how every year they sneak up on you, until one day you look out your kitchen window, or your on a drive and you notice everything around you is scarlet red, pumpkin orange, and canary yellow.

There are still signs of summer holding on.

Fast little busy bees getting the last of the pollen before the hard winter.

Then they are gone.

I am so very very thankful it's so colorful here.

My Week

2011-10-07T15:54:00.001-04:00

It is so hard for me to believe that it is really October but my calendar says otherwise so it must be true!

So here is a run down of my week.

* Make postcards for my mom

* Clean my studio (very very messy)

* Fun blog changes

* Finish a pattern to share

* Stitch up my latest doodle block

* Started knitting a scarf for myself

* Went door to door for local politics

* Baked and tried new pumpkin ricotta shells

* Kids meltdown in a store

* Wrestling with sinuses

* Won a winner takes all game

So what suppose to actually happened to you this week?

I'm Not a Horse

2011-10-04T15:28:00.001-04:00

Do you remember me?! It's been awhile since I posed for you. That woman called Mom has been running around here making me dizzy.

These looks don't help. Following her around only makes me tired.

My ears did perk up when I heard her say " Wa Wah Buster Blah Wa Wah Dog Wa Wo Bed Blah Soon" I think it was about me... oh boy!

So I gave her my best puppy dog eyes. Do you think it worked?

Oh oh oh I gotta go that crazy lady is waving this thing called a treat in front of me ... and .. it's ..taking...all my ...might ...not to move! Gotta GO.

Trying ..For Real

2011-09-27T16:20:00.001-04:00

Thankfully all of us here on the home front seem to be on the mend. No more fevers and no more sour tummies. It's always when we run out of medicine and I buy more that magically everything gets better. Thank you all for the well wishes.

So now that everything is almost back to normal I'm trying, for real, to put more effort into things. My little shop has been getting new things added everyday. Plus after an almost embarrassing incident with my neighbor, involving my very loose fitting pants and me carrying in groceries, I decided to put a little effort into myself. After losing weight and 2 sizes a much needed clothes shopping trip was scheduled. I've also been trying to get some crafty business done around here so I have more to show you all and finally this little blog is going to get a makeover.

So if you happen to see some weird changes it just me putting effort in.

Hello Fall

2011-09-23T14:19:00.001-04:00

Today is officially the first day of fall. I've already got most of our fall items out from storage and scattered a bit of it around the house. Unfortunately a stomach bug has also made it's way around the house too. First Aries, then Odyn, Damien go it yesterday, and now ... me.

Drinking some peppermint tea has helped. This weekend is suppose to be gloomy and rainy, perfect weather to catch up on rest. Pj pants, warm fuzzy striped socks, and a movie or two is in order for this weekend. Crossing my fingers that the bug leaves the house just as quickly as it came in.

Kitchen Window

2011-09-20T16:26:00.001-04:00

Looking out my kitchen window leaves are starting to turn golden yellow and crisp orange. With only 3 days left to summer I picked what was left of the zinnias in my very neglected flower garden. The sedum has turned a rustic pink color which is a sure sign autumn is right around the corner.

Fall sweaters and blankets are starting to come out of their hiding spaces. Tea cups and coffee mugs are getting more use. Soon the air will smell like apple cider, fresh hay, and musty earth.

Pumpkin picking will be on the list of things to do, along with deciding who will be what for Halloween. We are thinking maybe a trip to Salem, Massachusetts is in order this year. But right now, for 3 more days it's summer.

Focus on Happy

2011-09-16T15:57:00.001-04:00

After a very long and not so great week, including one call from the principal and a note from the music teacher I decided I needed some happy. Looking at Micaela's Friday posts always make me happy. So being the positive Polly that I am why not focus on the happy things this week.

Emma is having a lovely giveaway over at her blog. Digging through my collection of buttons, both old and new, and picking out some of favorites really brought a smile to my face. I have plans for those little wooden squirrel buttons but I may need to practice my knitting a little more.

Also some happy this week is more great things going into my shop. Including snowflake garlands like the ones I had last year. Crocheting away most nights on the couch has made my snowflake pile grow and grow. Not that I am expecting or wanting snow anytime soon, but creating always makes me happy.

So what brought a smile to your face this week?

Watercolor, Marker, and a Bit of White Acrylic

2011-09-14T14:28:00.001-04:00

These are the results of my watercolor trials. Not quite perfect yet and so I must give it another go.

But like always with a bit of practice I will get there. Still debating on sending this to someone, using it as art journal page, or what to do with it?

Practice

2011-09-13T15:42:00.001-04:00

Watercolors are on my list of things to practice. Like most things, they are not as easy as they look.

Dainty Winter Scarf

2011-09-12T14:58:00.001-04:00

My first knitted piece is a scarf for Ms. Aries. When beginning to knit I didn't check to see how much I had of a certain yarn or use any pattern - just picked up what I had and practiced knit and purl stitches. It was only after I had gotten these stitches down and how to rotate between them that I realized I didn't want to waste what I had began to create.

With my yarn ball (Sugar and Cream: Pastel Delight 00158) slowly getting more and more depleted as I moved the needles, it was time for more yarn. Using my trusty friend the internet I typed the yarn name into the computer ... and without fail you can only order it online.

It was not long enough for scarf or pretty enough to make into a neck warmer for myself (I don't really think Aries would go for the whole neck warmer thing). After trying it on Aries a couple of times I decided that it would be a scarf... with a few tweaks. Looking at my pile of doilies and box of beads I got to work.

Now it's long enough to wrap around Aries. Plus the dainty chic quality of it just makes it even more special. Doing a happy scarf dance this morning and posing for pictures (including funny faces) I could tell I was not the only one that was happy I learnt how to knit.

Plans for the Weekend

2011-09-09T22:52:00.001-04:00

I'm not the planner in the family - that is my dear hubbies job. Adventurous and spontaneous is me. In fact I remember when hubby and I had first started dating he called me after he got out of work (10pm) to see if we wanted to hang out that night. Unfortunately I was about 2 1/2 hours away at the beach with a girlfriend. Shocked, he asked "why?" To which I replied, "because I felt like going to the beach." This was a new concept for him, as he was not use to my get up and go attitude.

Still to this day I'm the one who says let's go to New York City this weekend. He kindly reels me in. But sometimes I can coerce him, like our winter trip to the ocean just so I could dig my toes in the sand. Far too many weekends are now planned. One thing that comes with parenthood. Sometime soon my inner gypsy will speak up with an exciting plan for the weekend. But this upcoming one is not it. We are laying low. You may find me finishing up a new pattern, working on teaching myself new knitting tricks, or still trying to play catch up after the power outage. Hoping everyone has a lovely cheeky weekend with an impromptu trip thrown in!

Back to School

2011-09-06T13:38:00.001-04:00

The oldest tied his new converse shoes this morning in hopes that he will be the next Greg Heffley. This year will be the year of multiplication, sleep overs, and text books. As he wiped evidence from the sandman away from his eyes I couldn't help but think When did I become a mom of a 3rd grader?

It seems like just yesterday I was snapping pictures of him getting on the bus for first time. Watching him with a backpack that looked too big and wonky for his tiny frame. Now the backpack fits perfectly, the pants are much longer, and he no longer wants the public display of affections - he waved a quick goodbye as to not hurt my feelings as he left the house towards the bus stop. With a stride in his step I haven't seen before, I could tell he knows that this will be his year.

There is Finally Light at the End of my Tunnel

2011-09-03T10:28:00.001-04:00

After 6 days of no power, no water, moody children, and a BIG dog afraid of the dark I can finally take a breath. This morning at 9:36am the power was restored. Now comes the clean up - dishes, laundry, fridge (YUCK), and toilets need a good scrubbing.

Without power you find a way to entertain yourself. Luckily for us my mom and her husband Eric have a generator, so most nights were spent up there. Breaking out the old craft books that show you how to do anything, even how to make rugs, it seemed like the perfect time to try my hand at knitting. Now with power, I can actually watch some videos to see if I am doing it correctly.

One thing is for sure - no peanut butter and fluff sandwiches tonight!

2011-08-25T15:52:00.001-04:00

A new season is peeking into summer. It's making it's appearance known with shiny silver dollar money plants ready to harvest, children groaning with even the thought of homework, and chilly nights where your toes cry out for soft warm socks.

You can't see my silly giddy grin but I love fall the best. Give me that damp musty fallen leaves smell. Chunky sweaters and warm mugs full of tea. Winter can stay away but fall ... your welcome to come in.

To Start or Not To Start

2011-08-23T14:32:00.001-04:00

With all the projects I already have going on why am I thinking about starting a new one? Making crochet snowflakes to try to beat the holiday rush of garland orders is on my things to do, along with finishing Odyn's ripple blanket, making more snack bags, Halloween costumes, finishing the 2nd embroidery block, and finishing a pattern I've started for the holidays.

After cleaning and reorganizing the studio this weekend, maybe it wasn't such a good idea to hang this up.

More Plans Than Hands

2011-08-19T14:50:00.001-04:00

Who knew that August would be my busy month. Fairs, farmer's market, and ideas galore - in fact so many ideas that I can't keep up. At night I find myself like a spider weaving a web, going round and round, dipping and diving here and there trying to make things come together. Odyn's ripple blanket is coming along but has taken a back seat a bit. His fuzzy has been making more and more of appearance. Fuzzy went to the fair, for car rides, and almost took a bath last night. As lovely as this ripple is I don't think it's going to replace fuzzy.

In other news a big decision was made and it requires some guts, courage, and a bit of practice. If you don't have a problem promoting yourself then don't mind my rambling that is about to start. Doing the farmer's market is great exposure but I've been thinking it's very small and a little limited. Etsy is great globally, they just haven't invented the Willy Wonka type computer yet, where you can reach in and feel my items. So the best thing for me will be boutiques and local shops, until the barn is completed. Never having done this, it does make me a little uneasy. Do you email, walk in an ask to talk to the owner, send a letter, call?

I don't want to come off as a person who thinks they are perfect and great - just look at my studio right now. It's a mess but it's real for a wife and mother of 3 who is working and creating. So with all this in mind I'm making the leap, taking a chance, and pushing the inner self doubter out the window. If you have marketed your things at local shops and boutiques and have pointers I would ♥ to hear them! Well as you can see, the studio needs cleaning, a custom order needs to be filled, and projects need to be finished. Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend full of sunshine!

Handmade Postcard

2011-08-17T11:04:00.001-04:00

Recently I participated in The Great Big Stitched Postcard Swap. This time the theme was bloom with which you instantly think of flowers. With little information about my swap partner given I went on a spy mission. Googling her name I found her blog, where she writes with her heart on her sleeve. It wasn't until then, after I read her story, that I could start creating. Sarah-Jayne's husband, Pete, is going to swim the English Channel in September to raise money for the Penny Field School in Leeds. A school that helps special needs children learn and play through interactive activities and an understanding staff.
Rightfully so, a swimmer needed to be including on this postcard. A swimmer swimming through a field of flowers that will bloom into a big success. With my small message to them on the back, I shipped it off to the UK. My hope is that this tiny little postcard will bloom into something greater - encouragement - for doing something so great.

A Day At The Fair

2011-08-15T15:31:00.001-04:00

The sweet smell of oats and hay filled the air.

When the goats licked us, we laughed.

Trying to find the perfect rabbit was a bit hard.

One that looked like it belonged in Wonderland was finally chosen.

He listened to everything we were saying.

Who was the softest?

Sheep and rams won in the pet ability department.

Their fluffy wool and wise eyes kept the kids busy for awhile.

Rams looked like they were deep in thought.

All the food was too tempting.

Along with the musical sound of the rides.

Most were passed up because the kids like to keep their feet on the ground.

It was a fun day full of laughter, pageants, and personality.

Free spirited wild child with the bruised legs, evidence she plays hard and as rough as the boys, didn't win Little Miss Lebanon.

(sorry for the camera shaking - I was laughing too much)

She did win Little Miss Personality :)!!

What Busy Means

2011-08-12T18:23:00.001-04:00

A lot of people say they are busy but that can mean so many things. What is busy for you may be hectic for me or a walk in the park. I guess it all comes down to perspective. Busy to me is a farmer's market full of people expecting my booth to have things to buy, a photograph worthy town fair, three children anticipating a new school year, and a puppy who won't stop chewing things.
So today was a day to fill up on more supplies. Velcro, batting, fluffy stuff, button covers, and a fat quarter of fabric for myself that I just couldn't resist. Every now and then it's good to take a moment; But now that moment is over and back to the sewing machine I go. Hope everyone has a great weekend. I'll be back with adventures from the fair.

New Things

2011-08-09T16:08:00.001-04:00

My mom's published book Picky Eater, That Peter is out!!! Damien is beyond thrilled that she used him as the model for Peter in the book. Not only did my mom write the story but she also drew the pictures.

Are any of your kids picky eaters? Damien was the pickiest eater out of all three. Thanksgiving was difficult to say the least. Questioned with why I was cooking a peacock, then having to explain it was a turkey didn't make it more appetizing to him. At holidays biscuits were his choice food, they still are but now he eats a little bit of everything. No more whining, crying, or fussing - thankfully he realized what Peter does in the book.

With food in mind (nice segue and unplanned), I have been making reusable snack bags for the farmer's market. They are so much healthier for the environment and cost a lot less in the long run then having to buy those plastic baggies. Just pop them into the wash with the other laundry and you got a clean snack bag. Kids seem to like them so much they don't care what's inside as long as they get to hold the bag.

Think they will be a big hit at the market?

2011-08-08T12:06:00.001-04:00

Just popping in for a second to announce the winner of the Summer Bloom Bucket Bag. Thank you to everyone who entered. Our lucky winner of this beautiful bag is ......

Grace!!! Congrats!!! Grace also have a lovely Etsy shop. I'm loving her warm oatmeal scarf. Again thank you everyone who entered.

A Lesson

2011-08-05T17:58:00.002-04:00

All primped and fresh out of the laundry Mr. Squirrel and Calico Bunny had their photo shoot. They will be placed in the shop!! They did give me a bit of a scare the other night though.

Another bad habit I like to do is keep pins tucked in my lips while sewing. Being the busy mom that I am one of the kids came into the studio while I was sewing, reminding them to be careful and that I would be out in just one minute, I lost track of the pin. Realizing there was once a pin in between my lips and now there wasn't the first thought that came to my mind was .. Did I just swallow a pin?

Of course thinking this thought only makes things worse. You Google what to do if you swallow a pin (something I would not recommend to anyone), your throat starts to hurt, and you go into total freak out mode. Needless to say I am still alive, nothing hurts, and I won't be joining the circus anytime soon for swallowing weird objects. The pin is on my studio floor and not in my tummy.

A nice little lessons learned. Don't tell your kids to not put things in their mouths and you put pins in there. Slow down before you hurt yourself. Pay attention.

Slowing down will have to wait though. This weekend will be filled with a barn tag sale, game night at my mom's house, making things for next weekends farmer's market, and finishing up the 2nd Doodle Embroidery Block. I did get the blocks from the printer and they will be in the shop as soon as I can show my finished block. If you do want one before then I can set up a reserved listing for you - either comment or send me an email (itchinstitchin (at) gmail (dot) com).

Hope everyone has a fun filled weekend like we do!!!

*Also don't forget to enter my Bloom Bucket Bag Giveaway it ends on Saturday Aug 6th!!!

Tops To The Quilt Top

2011-08-03T14:18:00.000-04:00

For no reason at all, besides wanting to try my hand at free motion embroidery, this quilt top was born. Mr. Squirrel has made an appearance again and each time he always looks like he is looking for nuts to gather for the impending harsh winter.

This time he brought along a new friend Calico Bunny, who is very proud of his handmade pom pom tail. It was made with the softest yarn that all the children love to rub their faces against. Being around children is something both Mr. Squirrel and Calico Bunny hold dear.

For children are loyal and share snuggles with one special blanket for years. Although they haven't found their proper home yet they know when they do they will hang on the wall of a tiny infant's room, be held close during night time storms, and carried around till their threads can't hold.

Patiently waiting for the lady, who often mutters to herself things like "how much juice can one child drink" and "I don't have 8 arms but it would be helpful if I did", to sandwich them together into a quilt. Often she gives them a knowing look and an apologetic smile.

Today is different though. There is a whisper in the air that they are going to be finished. Batting, bias, and backing fabric are flying about. A new needle and large spool of thread have been put on the sewing machine. Mr. Squirrel is giving himself a proper cleaning and Calico Bunny is hoping in anticipation knowing that their pictures will soon be taken. It is with these pictures, a little shop, and a new family that they will find their way to a place they will soon call home.

Must Give Credit

2011-08-02T15:33:00.002-04:00

All the free motion embroidery people out there that make your pieces look perfectly peachy I must give you credit. Trying something new, which as you all know is something I do every other day, the idea for a sweet little baby quilt came into my head. A big tree, a sweet bunny, and maybe Mr. Squirrel would make an appearance.

After much deliberation over what color fabrics, cutting them into applique shapes, and drawing with a fabric pencil the time came to try my hand at free motion embroidery. It's nothing like the slow patience you need for hand embroidery. Knowing that you need to keep the pressure foot down all the way making the needle hum and at the same time make rhythmic even paced motion with the fabric, had me a little freaked. Taking deep breaths and completely understanding why one woman on the sewing boards recommends a glass of wine before beginning, I jumped in.

No it did not go smooth. There was breaking of thread, a bent needle or two, a wonky nest of fabric underneath, and words that a lady sewing should not say. Giving up is not in my vocabulary so I kept going and it got better. Leaves started to look like leaves and before I knew it a tree was born. Stretching my back and uncurling my fingers I got up to study what I created. Glancing out the window I realized that nature decided my work was worth copying.

Itchin Stitchin Cottage Kitchen - Block 2

2011-07-28T15:44:00.000-04:00

Block #2 of the Doodle Embroidery Block Quilt is a cottage kitchen. Inspired by Eileen, who left a comment about how much she loved my kitchen. She got me thinking how lovely it would be for everyone to stitch their own dream kitchen. Doodling away this was the cute little cottage kitchen I dreamed up.

This time the lines of the doodles did come out a bit darker. If you are planning on stitching in a lighter color, like myself, I would recommend 4 strands or more of floss. I only used 2 and the lines are showing a bit. The printed blocks haven't arrived yet but once they do they will be available in my shop to purchase.

This block has tons of little details. It's taking me a little longer to stitch up than the first block but it's also fun deciding the stitches and what colors to use. The fridge is blank but could always use a cute kids drawing. No plain pot holders for me, so I think I'll stitch them with a pattern. The window outside needs a season...as you can see there are so many fun decisions to make.

I wish Aries was a bit older, not that I am rushing anything, but I really think this would be a great starter embroidery project. Her kitchen would more than likely be filled with pinks and she would need to stitch a little cupcake on the counter. That girl loves her sweets!

My block is going to be a little different than the one I envision she would make. Once it is all stitched up I will share it in it's completeness. If you decide to stitch one up I hope you'll share yours too ... after all that's part of the fun.

Whatcha Working On Wednesday

2011-07-27T15:21:00.000-04:00

So today I thought I was going to show everyone the wonders of block number 2 in the series of Doodle Embroidery Quilt Blocks but it just so happened that a little thunderstorm rolled through last night. Which in turn caused our power to go out. A viscous cycle had begun because without electricity meant not enough light to embroider and no movie to entertain children. So the kids and I played with my camera for a bit ... after all, this weeks photography inspiration is Dive In and I hadn't even started it yet.

Damien agreed that the best thing to dive in to is our bed after a long day. Of course to get the pictures the only diving in would be on mom and dad's bed. After the jumping up and down, throwing of pillows, and taking the sheets off my bed stopped the daylight was fading fast. Getting all nestled into their own beds I read the kids a book by candle light, something that put my old eyes to the test. The fear of not having a night light was soon replaced with the rhythmic sounds of small snores and I was left to sit downstairs in silence.

A person can only watch candles flicker for so long. Paper and pen in hand I wrote down to do lists, 4 year plans, and back to school needs.Getting very bored with myself I decided to call it a night. At 2 am our power came back on with a hum. Going around the house shutting off the lights that had been left on 8 hours earlier, I realized how thankful I am for electricity. Tonight, hopefully with the power of electricity, I will be able to stitch up enough of block 2 to post pictures. Which only leaves me with one question .. whatcha been working on?

First Job

2011-07-25T18:18:00.000-04:00

One great thing about a heat wave is that the flowers think they are in a greenhouse. Even though my little garden has been very neglected daisies, bachelor buttons, and snap dragons still seem to be doing fine.

My first job ever was working in a greenhouse. After deciding that I didn't want to go to my local high school with the same people I had known since Kindergarten, I applied to go to an agriculture based school. Not only did my bus arrive at 4 am but you were also required to have an agriculture based project after school.

The greenhouse was my project. Covered in potting soil, soggy socks, and prune fingers were an every day occurrence. There were some things I didn't enjoy about this job like the butterflies that would get trapped inside or the snakes that would sneak up on you while you were watering the ferns, but by far, the good out weighed the bad. Cutting the lavender, smelling the flowers in blooms, and seeing every shade of nature imaginable.

It was at this job that I learnt a teaspoon of sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and just a pinch of salt in a vase of fresh cut flowers will make them last longer. That you want to cut your flowers at a 90 degree angle right above new leaves and that cutting flowers off your plants will make it bloom bigger and better next year. So if you pass by a garden that needs a good weeding and see some strange woman cutting the very little flowers she has to put in vases... you probably just drove by my house.

5 Years

2011-07-22T14:55:00.000-04:00

To My Darling Husband,
After 10 years of being together and 5 years of marriage ......

you still make me smile and laugh like this everyday. Happy 5th Anniversary!!!

Weekly Photography Inspiration ~ Week 3

2011-07-21T23:17:00.000-04:00

This weeks photography inspiration theme is color. Going with the theme, I went a little outside the box. Normally in my crafting work there is tons of different colors but for the photos I thought maybe I will just concentrate on how colors feel.

Like blue to me is classic, charming, farm house sophisticated, like the blue glass of mason jars.

Yellow to me is a happy color which reminds me of the center of daisies and peanut butter cookies.

Red feels powerful, demanding attention, like the wattle of the rooster in charge.

My favorite color is green which is, peaceful, relaxing, quiet, and calm. Reminding me of my metal jade garden chairs and a field of grass blowing in the wind.

Orange is a little crazy, exciting, striking, vibrant like that of waddling duck feet.

Now white can be argued that it's not a color at all but when I think of white it's luxurious and soft like feathers.

I also took some fun black and white photos - kinda forgetting about the theme. Thinking I may turn some into postcards for the shop. So if you were taking pictures for the weekly photo inspiration of color what color would you choose? How does that color make you feel? What would that picture be of?
P.S. I know I missed week 2 which was materials - just couldn't get inspired that week

Time for A Giveaway!!

2011-07-20T14:56:00.002-04:00

Normally I have a reason for a giveaway but today is a just because kind of day. Remember that lovely bag that was part of the Summer Bloom Bucket Bag Tutorial? Well that is what you can win!!!

It features a big wide strap, applique embroidered fabric flowers, and a lined interior with pocket. Use it for the trips to the local farmer's market, as a gift, as a blog giveaway for your blog, or use it as your everyday bag.

So here is what you have to do to enter:

Leave a comment on this post telling me ~ How you would use the bag if you win.

For extra entries (please leave 1 comment for each entry):
1. Follow my blog with Google Friend Connect/ Bloglovin or if you already do ~ leave a comment
2. Tweet about this giveaway - make sure to include @itchinstitchin ~ leave a comment
Example tweet you can use: @ItchinStitchin is having a #giveaway!! Go to http://www.itchinstitchin.blogspot.com for a chance to win a beautiful #Summer Bloom Bucket #Bag
3. Facebook about this giveaway - make sure to include @itchinstitchin ~ leave a comment
4. Pin this post on Pinterest with comment including ItchinStitchin ~ leave a comment
5. Heart ItchinStitchin shop on Etsy ~ leave a comment

Contest ends August 6th 2011 12 pm EST. Winner will be chosen using a random number generator. This giveaway is open worldwide. Please remember to leave a way for me to contact you. You will have 72 hours to claim your prize before another winner will be chosen.

After 8 Years

2011-07-18T15:14:00.000-04:00

Do you see something different about the boys room?

After more than 8 years we say goodbye to a piece of furniture that has been with us before our first was born. Odyn has a big boy bed and the crib is getting put in our upcoming tag sale. Hubby shed a tear and I gave a silent clap, there are no more babies in this house.

Summer Bloom Bucket Bag Tutorial

2011-07-14T20:40:00.002-04:00

It's here ... it's finally here!!! After a little delay of 3 children, a dog named Buster, a heat wave, and a file conversion to PDF that didn't want to show my pictures, it's finally here. If this wasn't a test to my patience I don't know what was.

(Click on picture to find out how to make it)

It did turn out lovely though, didn't it? If you have any questions regarding the tutorial - like What the heck does that mean? -those kind of questions feel free to email me at itchinstitchin(at)gmail(dot)com. I will do my best answering anything that comes my way - and if needed I will take more step by step pictures.

The instructions tell you how to make the bag's structure but not the design on front. So here is how I did the applique on the front of my bag.
What you will need:

Heat Bond or any other brand of iron on stabilizer
Fabric with design you want to cut out
Embroidery floss in matching colors
Crewel or Embroidery needle
Iron
Scissors

Iron your fabric smooth - no wrinkles at all on either side.
Cut out enough of the Heat Bond to cover the design on the fabric you want to cut out. Iron this onto the wrong side of the fabric design - leaving the paper side of the Heat Bond on.
Once stabilizer is attached to the fabric and cool enough to handle, get out your scissors and carefully cut out the design.
Carefully pull off paper backing of the Heat Bond and position the design where you would like it to lay. Remember to keep in mind the seam allowances.
Once positioned where you want it press with a hot iron - starting in the middle of the design working out. This prevents fabric wrinkles and air bubbles. I also like to flip over the fabric and press from the back as well.
Now your design should be secure enough onto your fabric to embroider. You can get as fancy as you want stringing beads, buttons, sequins, or other objects to embellish the design. I kept mine simple and embroidered around the petals of the flowers. Remember to secure the edges of the applique all the way around the design. This helps keep the design to the fabric and from fraying, even if it needs to be washed.

This bag would also make a great sleepover bag for the kids - you could even applique their name on it with the same method as above. Just print out large font that you like, cut out the letters, and then use the letters as a stencil onto the heat bond paper (just remember to flip the letters before you trace them or when you cut them out they will be backwards).

The possibilities with the bag are endless and that's why I wanted to keep just the structure of the bag in the tutorial. If you do make a bag please share it on the Itchin' Stitchin' Flickr Group. I would love to see how everyone else's bags come out.

If you are wondering what I will be doing with the lovely bag in the tutorial pictures or maybe about that floral fabric... well keep your eyes peeled on my blog, you might just see them in an upcoming giveaway .. right here!!!

Too Hot To Think

2011-07-12T14:50:00.000-04:00

Thank you all for your birthday wishes! It was a great day. Lately it's been too hot to think about anything. I cleaned out the studio, because it got to a point where the projects were escaping and leaving to other rooms.

With the heat sticking around, plans that we had for this weekend soon became plans to sit by the A/C. Even though the studio was clean, not much sewing was done. Getting the bag tutorial out I started to sew only to find drops of sweat on my forehead. Exasperated by the heat I gave up and giving up is something that is very rare for me. The weatherman says that a cold front is suppose to move in and thunderstorms will happen tonight. With fingers crossed I hope he is right, so I can finish the long awaited bag.

While I was in the studio I did notice that my inspiration board was a bit lacking. Getting on the move to remedy that problem right away I searched for postcard swaps. Have you heard of Swap-bot? It's a really neat site that hosts all kinds of swaps. Soon my board will be filled with all kinds of fun postcards.

Hope for rain and stay cool - I may drag the sewing machine out of the studio and in front of the air conditioner tonight!

Today I ~

2011-07-09T22:19:00.000-04:00

:: Drank a Starbucks yummy Java Chip Frappuccino and enjoyed every moment of it

:: Slept in and the kids let me

:: Donated 14 inches of my hair to Locks of Love - my 5th time donating and every time it feels so great

:: Got the most Facebook messages on my wall ever

:: Took 42 pictures of myself and my new hair - liked only 2 of them

:: Shockingly finished reading my 3rd book in 2 weeks

:: Ate ice cream cake which turned my tongue blue

:: Turned 29

Still Going

2011-07-07T14:11:00.000-04:00

Feeling a bit under the weather lately I haven't gotten as much done as I hoped for this week. With the thought of having to renew my drivers license (YUCK) I'm afraid the sickness is just me getting another year older. Saturday will be my last birthday celebrating my 20's. Although I can't deny that my throat has been scratchy, my stomach has been sour, and my head has been pounding. So I called in my own prescription, which includes, sleeping a little more and doing a little less.

There has been some progress with the bag tutorial. I'm keeping the bag design simple but will give ways for you to mix it up a bit. I've promised myself to not start anything new until this is finish. Although I am moving at a snails pace lately, I'm still going.

Weekly Photography Inspiration ~ Week 1

2011-07-05T18:41:00.001-04:00

I love joining Flickr groups and looking at other peoples photos almost as much as taking my own. Photography is something I want to get better at. Taking a class at this moment is not in the cards, but that has never stopped me from learning something new.
Less than a year ago I could not crochet, not even a stitch. Watching videos on the internet, reading a book, and asking a family friend for some quick lessons - I can now call myself a crocheter. Not just any crocheter either, one that has made crochet hangers, blankets, and even a little girls dress.

The way I look at things, is if you want to do something bad enough you will learn how. Looking at Flickr I found a weekly photography inspiration group that just started. To my surprise, week 1 is what you eat. Having grabbed my camera the other day while the kids and I were preparing dinner I snapped shots of lettuce from my mom's garden and the noodle that wanted to stand out in the crowd. Perfect photos without even knowing the theme for week 1 and a sign that I'm on the right path of learning something new.

Documenting Summer

2011-07-03T00:02:00.000-04:00

Please stop by Grace's blog where I did a guest post on how to document summer with photos.
To everyone here in the states Happy 4th!

The Day that Felt like Yesterday

2011-07-01T15:38:00.000-04:00

All day yesterday it felt like Friday. Now that Friday is here I don't know what day it is. Lots of non-staged snuggling has been happening around here, which has made my life easier.

This week I got more accomplished than I have in a long time. Reading a new book, starting a ripple blanket, finished doodling the second embroidery block, new items in the shop, and even some time to weed part of my garden that still desperately needs it - all done this week.

See that brown and white blanket Odyn is laying with? That is his fuzzy or at least that is what he calls it. He won't sleep without it and gets mad if it gets put in the wash. Secretly, while he is distracted, I grab it and throw it in with a bunch of laundry. (Damien wants me to clarify that the pink pillows in this picture are not his nor would he EVER sleep with pink pillows .. they are ARIES' pillows and he felt wrong even touching pink pillows)

So anyways, where was I?... Oh, Fuzzy! With all the snuggling going on I have realized that I haven't made Odyn a blanket yet. Damien's blanket was made while I was pregnant with him, a very lovingly used bug jar quilt. Some of the bugs are missing now, jars are tattered, and there are crazy threads everywhere but he sleeps with it every night. You can see it in this post, all folded at the end of his bed (I will make a note to do a proper post for it). Aries' dream quilt was finished around this time last year. It now rests on her bed every night as well.

So my plan is to replace Fuzzy. I know what your thinking - HA, silly woman good luck! Hopefully the ripple of bright colored yarn will entice him. I'm not trying to be mean but Fuzzy is starting to turn into grungy. If this doesn't work I will try my second plan - a quilt made from some of Odyn's baby clothes. If all else fails I guess Fuzzy will live on.

My Boudoir

2011-06-29T15:32:00.000-04:00

Awhile ago I remember writing a post about our bedroom. The wonky space where a headboard should go was a problem then as much as it is today. Having made a garland to try to solve the problem it didn't last long. One night it came loose and landed on my head, making me jump right out of my skin. Don't get me wrong the garland was lovely but it just needs something more.

Nightstands are something we no longer have to worry about. Finally after searching at auctions and flea markets and not finding exactly what I wanted I decided we couldn't wait any longer. Going down to the barn I rummaged around, hubby helped cleaned them up, we painted one, and I told myself they would work for now. For not being perfect, they have grown on me.

Grabbing a crochet hook and some yarn, I sat on my bed yesterday and started a ripple blanket. There was no noise from the monsters as they were tucked away in bed, the television was off, and Buster was snoring in the kitchen. It felt really good to be able to just close the door to our room, put a drink on my nightstand, and relax. Very rarely does it ever get that quiet in our house.

I remember a time when my bedroom was the place to be. Best friends would come over and we would have slumber parties. There was my orange phase that started in middle school and went into my freshman year of high school. Everything had to be orange and my reasoning was because when you ask someone what their favorite color is very few people say orange. The bedroom was where I did my homework, talked on the phone, read a book, and even painted my nails.

Now as an adult it seems like some of that is lost, spending most of my time now in the living room or doing late night projects in the kitchen or studio. Often I tell my children to clean their rooms wondering how they get messy so fast. The difference is they live in their rooms like I use too.

Granted after decorating a little more and realizing the true value in my adult room I think a little more mom time outs are in order. Maybe with all that free time staring at "the space" I'll think of something really clever to do with it.

Tonight I think I am going to grab a book, reclaim my youth, and spend the night in my room reading.

Bags Bags Bags

2011-06-28T13:54:00.000-04:00

Working on finishing a FREE bag tutorial for all but it's ok if you don't sew....

these beauties are in the shop if you want one.

Some Rearranging

2011-06-24T14:27:00.000-04:00

Sorry for the lack of posts this week. It's been a raining mess here without much to share. We did find time this week to move some furniture around. Lacking nightstands in the master bedroom was getting a little silly. This very tall cabinet was what hubby was using on his side of the bed. Every time the alarm went off we would have to pat our hand all the way up until we reached the top to turn off the alarm. Taking old nightstands out of the barn, I cleaned them up and even spray painted one turquoise blue. One problem down. Still working on getting the bedroom picture perfect to share. The tall cabinet made it's way to the living room and found a new purpose. It will hold throw pillows and blankets for the winter months or when the kids want to camp out on the floor to watch a movie. Now my problem is a funny wall space in the middle of two pictures where the headboard should be ... any solutions?

Vacation Over Blues

2011-06-21T18:07:00.000-04:00

I hate to utter those words but it is true - the vacation here is over. Nothing fancy, just nice nights at home together, family dinners, and our little trip to the beach. Being on vacation makes the days go by faster. It also makes you realize how fast weeds in your garden grow, that 3 children can literally eat everything in your cupboards, and that hubby and I need to make date nights more often.
So we're packing our bags cause it's time to go back to work!

Sunny with a Chance of a Winner

2011-06-18T19:05:00.001-04:00

Back from the Farmer's Market with smiles. Thank you everyone for stopping at my booth and for all the lovely comments. If you were not able to make it, but were interested in some of my bags, I do have some left over and will be posting them in my shop this week.

On to more exciting news, the 1st Embroidery Block: I'm Sew Happy Giveaway is over. The lucky winner on this very sunny day is .....

Lynn ~ who said she would love to see me doodle a tree house!! Thanks for the suggestion Lynn and thanks everyone for entering.
Next block will be a retro cottage kitchen inspired by Eileen from Bluebirdluxe's comment. Eileen is also hosting a giveaway of the I'm Sew Happy Block - If you didn't win you still have chance - go visit Bluebirdluxe before the 19th. Also with each new block there will be another giveaway.

Beach Day

2011-06-17T11:05:00.000-04:00

Hubby has been on vacation all this week, mostly to help me find time to make things for this weekends trip to the farmer's market. Being the great wife that I am I suggested just one day this week it would be a real vacation day. No emails, no computer, and most importantly no work we decided to get lost at the beach.

Thursday is the perfect day to go to the beach. It was quiet and felt like our own private island.

Someone did not like the way the Ocean sounded. He often referred to the water as bath and preferred the sand at first.

A rare occasion that he would get all the sand toys, Odyn took full advantage of this opportunity.

Where's Aries and Damien?

Patiently waiting for dad to come down to the water edges.

After all sunscreen is important for the adults too.

Dad arrived and it was time for a cool dip in the water.

The little one was playing spot the airplane and chase the seagulls at this time.

Sometimes there were sweet moments when they forgot they were brother and sister.

Then they remembered again.

Aries took great pleasure in burying Damien, so much so we had to advise no sand above his neck.

It was a great day full of water ballets......

and games of chase the waves.

Saying goodbye to a wonderful day at the beach was hard.

But there will be many more days like this to come.

** on a side note - last day to enter my giveaway :)**

Why I ♥ Swaps!!!

2011-06-15T18:43:00.000-04:00

Some people would say I was a little coo coo for doing 2 swaps in the same week I have to prepare for the farmer's market. At first I was thinking the same thing. There is just something about a good swap and meeting new crafty people that is so appealing. Also the added bonus of meeting new blogging buddies.

If I had to sign up again I would do it in a heartbeat. Happy mail is what arrived today and yesterday. The kind of mail that took away all the stress of finding a tent, preparing bags, tags, and supplies. First package I got felt like it was my birthday, and rightfully so since it was the birthday treasury swap from Susan.

The shadowbox got an "OOOOOO!" from Odyn and Ms. Aries wanted to keep it in her room. Damien said it was nice - which is the very best compliment you can get from an 8 year old boy. All the little details like the watering can, vintage needle holder, and cute cake all made me smile. It's perfect! I know the very special spot in the studio where it will go. Plus Susan was so thoughtful including bunny wrapped chocolates, spools of thread for the feet, needles that came in the needle case, and that wonderful cottage style paper. Thank you again Susan - your work is amazing!

The next little package I got in the mail came from the pampered swap that I sign up for on April Maybe's blog. Oh how lucky was I that April herself was the person to pamper me! The box had pretty pink Eiffel Towers all over it. Her package came at just the perfect time, for today I do feel like I need to be pampered a little.

April was little psychic too. The night before the package arrive I entered my Hubby and I into a giveaway for a trip for 2 to Paris. So upon opening my pampered gift I felt like I already won that giveaway. My inner Amelie squealed to see that I got a very cool Paris mug (perfect for tea), yummy French chocolate wafers, jasmine lime soap that I can wait to try, amazing jade green nail polish, a much needed eye mask, silky cotton linen body milk, an Eiffel Tower key chain, and a pedicure kit that I am sure once Aries sees, a girls night will be announced.
My absolute favorite part though was the mixed CD that April made for me. Once girls night is underway, Aries and I will be dancing with painted toes all night long to it. Thank you April for hosting such a wonderful swap and for pampering me with such wonderful gifts.

Birthday Treasury Swap

2011-06-13T20:37:00.000-04:00

I just finished a birthday treasury swap that Inspire Co. hosted. This is something out of my normal sewing crochet realm.

What a fun little challenge this was! My swap partner was Susan from Texas and her birthday tradition is going to Red Lobster Restaurant for her birthday. How yummy is that tradition? So with fun ideas in mind I got to work.

Susan mentioned that she was turning her home into a cottage and this was my main theme. A cute vintage cottage - which we all know I love. So I layered, paint upon paint upon paint, to create beautiful cottage chic feel. Using nail polish remover (because sandpaper was rubbing too much off) and q-tips I rubbed the white paint off to reveal pinks, greens, and yellows. The first cube has a party hat made from vintage paper and tissue paper with a bakers twine string. The second was a cute little vintage playing card from an Old Maid set. The card was Susanna but the bird quickly turned it into Susan :).

The third cube in that row is by far my favorite. It features a cute little peter rabbit from a vintage 1914 Easter card, with which it took all my might to deconstruct (the cards words were stained and watermarked). Adding the fluffy pom pom for his tail made him even more adorable. Susan loves bunnies so I hope this cube will also be her favorite.

The second row had to include her birthday cupcake with candle. Using a cupcake wrapper that was made from recycled paper, I wrapped fabric covered pom poms that were dipped in glue and sprinkles. The candle is marker covered tin foil and paper. A birthday wouldn't be complete without a flowery bouquet. Vintage millinery flowers in a peachy pink tied with a polka dot ribbon finish off cube 2 in the second row.

Now this cube was my hardest and largest! Lovely turquoise wrapping paper with a sweet memories sticker were the first things added. Where to go from there had me at a loss. Red Lobster was the tradition and I knew this cube had to include it. At first I thought of making the restaurants sign out of clay but it just didn't go with the cottage theme. Then it hit me. Getting my paper and markers I drew a lobster crate like they use to catch the buggers and printed out a little lobster in a shade of pink. I didn't tell him that they usually eat his kind at the restaurant.

Now finishing off the shadowbox I used a pretty blue butterfly sticker, vintage wallpaper, and some more of the vintage Easter card. If I take something old and deconstruct it I have one rule - I must use as much as possible of that item in the new purpose. The second cube was Susan's present from me to her - but if she unwraps the polka dot fabric I'm afraid she will just find a wooden block. The last cube, to finish everything off, was the word BEAUTIFUL. This is something we should remind ourselves at any age. We are always beautiful. The little bunting was made with bakers twine, vintage paper, and tissue paper.

My hope is that when Susan sees this lovely shadowbox it fills her heart with joy. I would love to know what are your birthday traditions? What would you like your birthday treasury shadowbox to be filled with?

Unplanned Slumber Party

2011-06-09T16:51:00.001-04:00

Last night as severe thunderstorms rolled in I got unexpected slumber party guests in my bed. There was a flash of light large boom and a scream from a shaking little girl. Faster than I could say "It's okay I'm right here", she was down the stairs by our bedroom door. Her hair was standing straight up in a wild mess.

Before hugs could be given the oldest came down the stairs in a dazed stare. "Are you okay?" I asked. The answer was "NO!" He was just as scared. Another bright flash an even louder boom sent them shaking into a huddle. Advising to wait right there, I went up stairs to check on the youngest. In the boys room I found him sucking his thumb. He looked at me and then pulled his blanket up an over his eyes. Knowing that once I got the other two to calmed down Odyn would hear the thunder storm, so down he came into the huddle with the other two.

Needless to say my pillows were taken, blankets for mom were nonexistent, and a sliver of bed was on order. The shaking, tossing, and turning in the bed I imagined to be a new kind of massage. Hubby came home in the morning to a tired wife and three children all sprawled in different positions. It's been really hot here today - 100 degrees Fahrenheit hot! More huddles, hugs, and comforting may be needed tonight as more storms roll in from the heat.

Luckily all this heat has made the peonies in my mom's garden bloom. A welcoming treat for a person who is a little hot and grumpy today. I put them in a lovely sparkling vase next to the reading chair. Trying to fill the house with some cheer and to take the mind off the heat that surrounds. Bright colors to welcome the summer that is upon are filling the house.

Is it summer where you are? How are you decorating for this hot hot season?

Still Have Time

2011-06-07T16:40:00.000-04:00

I just thought I would pop in here while I take a break from making bags, dishtowels, and other lovely things for the farmer's market to let you know that you still have time to enter my giveaway.

Once I start building this quilt and making more blocks your going to kick yourself for not entering the giveaway - anyone can enter... So what are you waiting for?

No Words but Thankful

2011-06-03T14:50:00.000-04:00

This week tornadoes hit Springfield, Massachusetts. Never in a million years would I ever think I would be typing that sentence. I moved to Springfield when I was a junior in high school. My husband grew up in Springfield. We went to the same high school in Springfield. All of our children were born in Springfield (even when I was pregnant with Odyn, living in CT, we traveled the hour). Most importantly my in-laws live in Springfield.

To see in the news places that you once had pizza dinner dates with your future husband at, without a roof, or old buildings demolished, is a little more than heart wrenching. Thankfully everyone is okay. Damien was and still is very worried. The TV is scattered with photos and stories with which I am trying to keep off of our screen. Our little worrier sees the leaves on the trees move and he ducks for cover. His eyes fill with tears at the thought of a tornado.

So our hearts and prayers go out to all our Massachusetts family and friends who witness this and who may still be a bit shaken. We are here for you.

Whatcha Working on Wednesday

2011-06-01T14:15:00.000-04:00

Would you really be shocked if I said more bags? No?! I didn't think so. That really has been what I have been working on for handmade items. Ideas for the second of the Doodle Embroidery Quilt Blocks is floating around there too. I'll be sewing away and then need to stop, write down my idea, and then continue sewing.

Sometimes though the thoughts inside my head at not always positive. Self doubt often creeps in and this very annoying little voice says "Why are you wasting your time, do you think anyone is really going to buy any of this?" You know that horrible hater that lives inside all of us. The one that makes you stop before you start, the one that makes you think of the what if's in life, and the one that tells you that you really don't look as good as you think you do. I hate her.

Well she got put in her place last night. There are enough haters, doubters, and saboteurs out there already I sure don't want to listen to the one inside my head. Instead I made my pleating bags and a list of must do's:

Make a tangible banner for shop
Make a free bag pattern for all those lovely followers of mine
Take more pictures of vintage treasures for shop
Weed the garden - it's over due
Plan a day at the beach

So that is my list. I have to say it is far better sounding than the evil nonbeliever. Don't let your inner dream crusher get you down - Whatcha working on this Wednesday?