While They Sleep...

Come and Visit Me...

2011-02-01T15:18:00.000-08:00

If you are here for the first time, I just want to let you know that I am now blogging over here (just click on the picture):

Tradition Tuesday - October Traditions

2010-10-27T11:26:00.000-07:00

Fall’s Beauty:

Make an annual trip to see Autumn in all of it’s glory. Make a picnic lunch to enjoy together amongst the fall leaves. Gather leaves and purchase pumpkins, cornstalks etc. to decorate the house with.

Columbus Day:

Review stories of his life and put pictures up. Have an Italian meal for dinner in his honor. The internet is full of fun and easy craft ideas for this day.

Family Cemetery:

Make a "family cemetery" with tombstones for each of your family members.

Magic Pumpkin Patch:

Tell your children that this year you have found some magic seeds to grow pumpkins. Gather your kids together and give them each 3-5 pieces of candy corn, the “magic pumpkin seeds”. Have them bury each piece of candy in the front or backyard and place a toothpick marker for where they buried their seeds. While they are sleeping, place a small pumpkin on each place they planted a seed. Watch in the morning when they are amazed by the beautiful pumpkins their magic seeds have grown into. Take a picture of each child with their favorite pumpkin.

Halloween Family Night:

On the Monday before Halloween, have a special family night to carve pumpkins and tell ‘scary’ stories. For dinner you may wish to do “Dinner in a Pumpkin” or try some "ghoulash" or "Spooketti" with a "blood" red drink. Make "bones" (breadsticks) to go along.

Halloween Poetry:

Gather your family to create spooky, funny or cute Halloween poems. Have each person read their poem aloud during dinner or at your Halloween party. Once your poems are perfected, type them on the computer in a Halloween-y looking script on ivory paper. Then collage the poems onto one sheet and feature this keepsake in a black frame sitting out among the Halloween décor for all to see each year.

The Ghost Hunter:

This is a game that you can play with children of all ages and is fun year after year. Take white tissues, fold them in the middle and glue on plastic eyes, which can be found at most craft stores. Poke a hole in the top and insert a piece of string and tie a knot on the end. You can make as many as you want, but be sure there are at least a few for each ghost hunter to capture. String up your little tissue ghosts all over the house and/or outside on tree branches and plants. Right before it gets dark have your children collect as many “ghosts” as they can find. The winner is given the official ghost hunter crown (you can make this or just buy one at a local costume shop). Take a picture of the “official ghost hunter” of the family and put it in a sectioned frame, add a new picture to the frame each year.

Tradition Tuesday - September Traditions

2010-10-27T11:21:00.000-07:00

Back to School Breakfast:

Make a special breakfast to start the new school year off right. Make an elaborate feast, anything but the usual cereal and toast. Let your children select the menu and do the grocery shopping together to prepare this special meal. Wake up early and set the table with your best dishes, turn on background music and really make the meal special.

The night before, you may want to talk about new “school” year resolutions. Have each child write down their resolutions to share if they wish at the Back to School Breakfast. Reinforce their commitment by laminating and posting their list someplace visible, and planning a special reward when they have succeeded.

Labor Day Feast:

Have the whole family help in preparing a special Labor Day picnic. Play charades of some of the different occupations that keep our nation strong. After the picnic give everyone a piece of paper and ask them to write down and draw what they want to be when they grow up. Adults can join in too!

Celebrating Grandparents:

Grandparent’s Day is celebrated on the first Sunday after Labor Day. The holiday was created to remind grandchildren to tap into the wisdom and heritage their grandparents provide. There are many things to do on this day, send a letter/card, write a poem or even put on a special play. Another is to complete a grandparent interview with a variety of questions. What were your goals and aspirations? What was your childhood like? What advice do you want to pass on to your children and grandchildren, etc. This will give your child the chance to see how the world has changed since their grandparents were young, and give your parents the opportunity to share stories.

Mapping Nonna and Opa: Can you say grandma and grandpa in Italian? Use this list of words that kids use for grandparents in other countries. Get out the globe or copy of a world map, and have your children find the countries These words refer to grandma and grandpa in the following countries:

• Poland -- Babcia and Dziadek,

• Germany -- Oma and Opa,

• India -- Nana-ji and Nani-ji,

• Korea -- Halmonee and Halabujee,

• Greece -- Ya-ya and Pa-pu,

• Japan -- Oba-chan and Oji-chan,

• China -- Popo and Gong-gong,

• Italy -- Nonna and Nonno,

• Israel -- Savta and Saba,

• Cuba -- Abuelita and Abuelito

Visit a Nursing Home:

Did you know that 60 percent of nursing home residents never have a visitor? Schedule a trip to a local nursing home, and have your children adopt "grandparents" or "secret pals" to cheer.

Tradition Tuesday - August Traditions

2010-10-27T11:17:00.000-07:00

Left-Hander’s Day:

August 13th is Left-Hander’s day. Celebrate by making dinner (if you are right handed) using normal equipment, but with your left hand:

• Stir food in pans

• Fill & pour kettle

• Pour from milk/measuring jugs

• Open tins

• Peel vegetables/fruit

• Use microwave controls (often positioned on right of the equipment)

• Wash up (draining board is often wrong side if you are holding the brush in other hand, so you have to pass wet dishes across your body to drain.

• Using spatulas (angled ones go the wrong way for left hand use)

• Cutting bread (wonky slices using right handed knife in left hand)

• Eating & drinking - reverse cutlery and have drink in left hand

• Cutting - using right-handed scissors in left hand is an excellent example of totally right-biased design that doesn't work well.

If there is a member of the family who is left-handed, celebrate them for all they put up with in this right-hander’s world.

Water Day:

Did you know the whole month of August is Water Quality Month? Celebrate by having a water party complete with water balloon volleyball, slip and slide and water gun wars. Invite friends and neighbors to join in the celebration! Make sure to drink a tall glass of water today and appreciate how clean and unpolluted it is.

Summer Adventure:

Tell your children and spouse not to make any plans for a specific day/night/weekend and keep the rest to yourself. Plan a whole day of places and events that will be fun and special for each member of your family. Make up small cards telling what the next part of the adventure is and put them in numbered envelopes. Let each member have an envelope to open and share what the next part of your adventure will be.

Tradition Thursday - July Traditions

2010-06-30T22:21:00.000-07:00

For those of you still checking in, just a reminder that I'm now posting to the new blog Lily&Thistle. I am, however, still posting monthly traditions throughout this year here. So here is what I have to share for July:

Independence Day Parade: Decorate kids’ bikes and wagons in red, white, and blue crepe paper and invite neighbors to do the same. Have all of the kids invite their families to stand outside and watch the parade.

Stars of Appreciation BBQ: As a family make stars in red, white and blue. When guests come for the BBQ, as a group, each person takes a star and writes what being an American means to them. After everyone is done, each person reads what they wrote and is given a piece of tape to hang their star as a decoration. After the BBQ is over, bring out a big birthday cake with sparklers celebrating our nation’s birthday. Instead of singing “Happy Birthday”, sing a favorite song about America. Take a picture each year and make a collage of the stars with each year’s picture.

Fourth of July Mural: Invite neighbor children over to create a Fourth of July sidewalk mural. On the day of the event supply every artist with colored chalk and set them loose on the driveway or sidewalk in front of your house. Have them work as a team to create a giant flag or colorful fireworks. The older kids can sketch the outlines, while the younger ones fill in with color. Take pictures of each artist by his/her work of art.

Courage: Because this is the month we celebrate those who have gone on before us in Courage to make our Nation great, it is the perfect time to overcome some of our own fears. Near the beginning of the month, have each family member write down anything they are afraid of or would like to do if they weren’t afraid. Older family members can help younger ones. Everyone picks out one fear to try to conquer for the month and shares it with the rest of the family. Be careful not to laugh at or criticize each other’s fears. Listen, validate and be supportive. Help each family member think of ways they can overcome their fear, instead of suggesting your own, and simply ask how you can help. At the end of the month, talk about what each member has done and ceremoniously dispose of the slips of paper the fear was written on.

National Ice Cream Day: July 15^th is National Ice Cream Day. Celebrate by either making homemade ice cream or buy enough ice cream to make a HUGE family sized sundae and share it!

Pioneer Day: July 24^th is Pioneer Day. Have a bread and milk supper with fruit, cheese, and onions (old pioneer favorites). Tell pioneer stories and share excerpts from journals. Sing pioneer songs and maybe even have an old fashioned square dance with family and friends.

Tradition Tuesday - June Traditions

2010-06-07T22:37:00.000-07:00

Hello to all of you that still check this blog. Just a reminder that I am now posting at my new blog Lily&Thistle. I will keep doing the monthly traditions ideas here until the end of the year so here's what I have for June:

Flag Day:
Point out the American Flag every time you see one with your children. Explain that the flag stand for our country and that it’s one way to tell the whole world who we are. It also show’s that we’re connected to each other as Americans. Because our flag is symbolic of many things, we treat it with respect. At home, study the flag more closely and display it. Explain to your children each part of the flag and its meaning. The 50 stars stand for the 50 states, etc.

Celebration of Summer:
Plan a family campout (either in the mountains or even in your own backyard). Have a family meeting to plan a wonderful summer. Plan family activities, jobs and fun.

Seven Days of Dad:
Show Dad how much you love him by celebrating Father’s Day all week long. As a family decide what you will do each day of the week. Each child can take a day and rotate or you can all plan something together on each day. You can give him small notes, meaningful gifts, do his chores etc. On Father’s Day honor him with a special dinner. Dad will feel honored and loved after his seven days of attention.

Father’s Day Hand in Hand Photo:
Hands symbolize so much. Each Father’s Day, take a photo of Dad’s hands with each child’s hands resting in his palm. Over the years these photo’s will be a special record the Dad will cherish forever.

The ABC Book:
A perfect way to let Dad know you love him is to create an ABC Book. This is a perfect activity to do with small children learning their ABC’s. Make a small book with 26 pages and a cover of cardstock weight paper. An easy way to do this is to punch three to five holes on the left side of each sheet of paper, stack them together, then lace ribbon through the holes and tie it on top. Ask your children to think of things they love about Dad that correspond to each letter of the alphabet. Have children draw a picture on each page showing what they have described.

Dates with Dad (and Mom):
Buy a journal/book and offer it to each child wrapped like a gift. Include a short note on the first page about how much that child means to you and that you would like to spend time together, just the two of you. Plan an activity once a month you both enjoy and make a date (on the calendar). The journal is used to record those “Dates” with photos, memorabilia (a ticket stub, napkin, etc.) and a quick description of what took place and how much you enjoyed your time together (older children can keep their own journal or share it with parents i.e. child writes a little note and then the parent writes thoughts, memories as well and gives it back to the child for the next date).

New Lower Prices on While They Sleep Patterns/Tutorials

2010-05-21T13:26:00.000-07:00

Since so much of my time and attention has gone to paper dolls lately, I thought it would be nice to make some of my patterns a little more affordable...for good. I probably won't be having half off sales anymore or anything like that...just "everyday low prices". So if you've ever wanted to try one of these, now is the time.

Click HERE to go to my While They Sleep Pattern Shop

Enjoy!

MiniMe Giveaway Going on...

2010-05-13T16:14:00.001-07:00

Dana's Little Lucy is the perfect model!

My good friend Dana is hosting a giveaway today on her blog. Check it out, you could WIN!

Just Stoppin' In To Let You Know There's a SALE Going On in the Pattern Shop

2010-05-10T13:08:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to check out what I've been up to over at Lily&Thistle (some freebies you might enjoy)!

BIG ANNOUNCEMENT - The Long and Short of It

2010-05-03T07:07:00.000-07:00

This is a long post so for those of you who don't want to read all of my babbling and just want to know what is up, scroll to the bottom and click on the links...for the rest of you, here's the long of it:

Announcement Part 1:
I have decided to say good-bye to While They Sleep and change my focus a bit. For a few reasons. One is that there are a gazillion other craft/sewing blogs out there that are doing a fine job of sharing what they know. Also, lately, the girls haven't been sleeping as much.

The biggest reason though is that I have(for a while now) wanted to have a blog/forum that focuses primarily on the work and joy of raising girls specifically. I want it to be a place that mom's and older daughters can go to feel uplifted and inspired and also a place to record my thoughts and things I find while I live and study on this topic. I have also (and continue to) invited some of the mothers/daughters I admire to do some guest posts on the subject. I have named the blog: "Lily&Thistle - Girlhood Illustrated". I'd love to have you stop by.

If you want to know what's behind the name, you can go HERE.

Announcement Part 2:
I also want it to be a place that I can show off some of the artwork I've been doing lately. Jeff has introduced me to the world of digital illustration by teaching me all about GIMP(a lot like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop but free) and helping me find the most amazing tool to do my art with, the Intous pen and pad. I love this creative tool because there is no mess to clean up and I have complete freedom to try and do new things. When the girls wake up, all I have to do is close whatever it is I'm working on and then I can pick up where I left off when it's less crazy and everything is there waiting for me.

Most Exciting Part of the Announcement:

For the last four months, I have been working on a line of custom paper dolls! They are completely customizable with eight different hairstyles, four skin tone choices, six hair color, and eye color choices. I wanted to make a doll that was cute and sweet and had a vintage feel to it but also current. I also wanted girls and mothers to have a toy option that is modest and celebrates the sweetness of being a little girl. I am finished with a Spring line of outfits and a Fairy Tale line. I'm almost done with a "Girls in Literature" line and looking forward to many many others. My new Etsy shop is called:

You can download a Free MiniMe Doll to print by clicking HERE.

I hope you will all feel welcomed to come over to my new blogging home. I have really enjoyed getting to know many of you through the Wonderful World Wide Web and hope to continue to hear from you.

I will be keeping While They Sleep up as a resource and will continue to post Traditions each month until November but will be posting primarily now on Lily&Thistle. Thanks again for all of your support and kindness.

Love,

Hannah

The Big Announcement - The Long and The Short of It

2010-05-03T06:13:00.001-07:00

If you want to know what's behind the name, you can go HERE.

Most Exciting Part of the Announcement:

You can download a Free MiniMe Doll to print by clicking HERE.

I hope you will all feel welcomed to come over to my new blogging home. I have really enjoyed getting to know many of you through the Wonderful World Wide Web and hope to continue to hear from you.

Love,

Hannah

Tradition Thursday - May Traditions

2010-04-28T13:02:00.000-07:00

May Day: May 1^st is May Day. It has always been associated with flowers. Long ago, young girls would make beautiful garlands out of flowers and take them door to door begging for money. This day make some garlands or just gather some flowers and give them to friends and neighbors. For older children, you can all memorize a short poem and recite it when you deliver the flowers. Here’s a great example:

"Sweet May hath come to love us,
Flowers, trees, their blossoms don;
And through the blue heavens above us
The very clouds move on."
- Heinrich Heine, Book of Songs

Mother’s Day Program: Prepare a special presentation for Mom. Each child can prepare a special poem, song or piece of artwork to present to Mom on her special day. After the program, have a nice meal together as a family but don’t make Mom lift a finger to get any of it ready!

Give Mom a Carnation: Carnations have become a symbol of Mother’s Day, because in the language of flowers, carnations stand for sweetness, purity, and endurance. These qualities define mother! Red carnations are worn to honor living mothers and white ones to honor those that have passed away.

Memorial Day Reverence: "Let no vandalism of avarice or neglect, no ravages of time testify to the present or to the coming generations that we have forgotten as a people the cost of a free and undivided republic." -- General Logan - May 5, 1868. Take the time to display the American flag. Teach your children to reverence the flag and talk about all of the people who have fought and died for our freedom. Sing the National Anthem and say a prayer of thanks.

Visit with a War Veteran: Take a treat or even invite a war veteran to lunch or dinner on this day. Ask questions and let the Veteran tell his/her story. At the end of the meal, give him/her a gift or card that has been made beforehand by the whole family.

Clean an Unknown Gravestone: Take some time to tell a story (complete with pictures if possible) of a loved one who has passed on. If you live near family graves, go and clean the gravestones and adorn them with flowers. If you don’t live near any relatives graves, find a grave or two that needs some TLC and talk about what life might have been like for the person buried there leave the grave looking clean and well cared for.

NOTE: To those of you who are wondering, I will be making the BIG ANNOUNCEMENT on Monday, May 3rd!

Just Checkin' In...

2010-04-15T21:21:00.000-07:00

I know I have been MIA lately. I'm sure you have all missed me....desperately :)

I am busy. VERY busy and VERY excited to tell you why VERY soon.

Hope you are all well.

Love,
Hannah

Tradition Tuesday - April Traditions

2010-03-30T12:23:00.000-07:00

April Fool’s Breakfast:

Have dinner for breakfast…get creative. Also as part of breakfast, each person has to tell a joke that they have prepared for the occasion. You can also do fun, harmless pranks throughout the meal/day.

Invisible Writing:

Dip a cotton swab in milk or lemon juice and use it to write a message on a piece of white paper. Send it to a friend or family member with instructions to iron the paper to read the hidden message (of course with help from parents if child is not old enough to use an iron). Like magic, the special message will appear!

Easter Bunny Trail:

A fun way to bring those that are too little to hunt for an easter basket or eggs is to make a bunny trail. You can make footprints out of construction paper, or make a stencil and use baby powder or flour to make prints. They will squeal with delight as they follow the trail to their basket of treats. Black jellybeans can also be used as bunny droppings to add an element of humor that older children will enjoy.

Kindness Wreath:

Create a kindness wreath for your front door. Begin with a small, plain wreath. A week or two before Easter, distribute 10 or more ribbons in bright spring colors to each family member. Whenever someone reaches out to another in kindness during the week, another ribbon is tied onto the wreath.

True Meaning of Easter Tree:

You need a tree or a tall vase with branches in it. You also need several very tiny Easter eggs (to put on the tree), small baggies to hold the Easter eggs, and small strips of paper with the following verses:

Day 1: Genesis 3:1-19 (God's first promise of sending a Redeemer)
Day 2: Genesis 22:1-14 (the story of Abraham and Isaac when God provides the ram for the offering)
Day 3: Exodus 12:21-30 (the first Passover)
Day 4: Numbers 21:4-9 (Moses and the brass serpent)
Day 5: Matthew 21:33-46 (parable of the unfaithful stewards)
Day 6: John 12:1-11 (Mary's anointing Jesus' feet with her hair)
Day 7: Matthew 21:1-11 (Jesus' triumphant entry--Palm Sunday)
Day 8: Matthew 26:14-30 (the Last Supper)
Day 9: Matthew 26:31-46 (the Garden of Gethsemane)
Day 10: Matthew 26:47-75 (Judas' betrayal)
Day 11: Matthew 27:11-31 (Jesus' trial before Pilate)
Day 12: Matthew 27:32-56 (the crucifixion)
Day 13: Matthew 27:57-66 (Jesus' burial)
Day 14: Matthew 28:1-10; Mark:16:1-20; Luke 24:1-49; John 20:1-31 (the resurrection)
Start two weeks before Easter. Each day, take the egg out of the little bag and hang it on the tree. Read the verses and discuss the meaning of the verses. On Easter morning, the tree is covered with eggs. (Have extra eggs to hang on the tree and a few other decorations to make it look beautiful.)

The Family Treasure Egg:
Find or create a very special egg that can be used every year. Decorate elaborately with ribbons, rhinestones, etc. Next make a treasure map that shows where the Family Treasure Egg will be hidden (in your home, back yard, local park, etc.) and cut the map into puzzle pieces. Put those pieces into individual plastic eggs and hide them. It’s up to the little ones to find the small hidden eggs and bring the pieces to the older kids or adults who put together the Treasure Map. Then all go searching for the Family Treasure Egg, which contains a surprise gift the whole family will enjoy.

Do you have any you'd like to share with us?

Last Minute St. Patrick's Day Free Printables

2010-03-17T11:03:00.000-07:00

Anyone like me this year and scrambling for some fun ideas at the last minute? Don't worry I've got you're back! Here's a few of my favorites:

LAST DAY OF HALF OFF SALE

2010-03-15T11:51:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder! Pod patterns will be $10 tomorrow so if you are wanting to get one, TODAY is the day!

Also to those of you who have already purchased a pattern and would just like the updates, please email me and I'll get them right out to you free of charge.

OK, that's all for now...over and out.

BIG ANNOUNCEMENT 1.5

2010-03-10T21:32:00.000-08:00

First of all I need to mention that this little cherub of a baby, my sweet Norah Jane turned ONE today! I know every mother says this but it is so true that time goes so quickly. She enjoyed a mini party with her sisters, mom, dad and grandma tonight and giggled and smiled her way through it. She has brought so much joy to our lives already. She is nothing but sugar and spice and everything nice! We love you Norah Jane.

Now for the Announcement!

This has been a long time in coming on this end so I am really excited to let you know that the Pod pattern is now available with the following added options:

A preemie size
A rounded bottom option

To celebrate, I'm offering a discount! All Pod Patterns sold this week will be HALF OFF!!! That's right folks, you read it correctly! You will get the regular Pod pattern with the added options...for $5 through the Etsy shop today through Monday. So hurry over and get them while they are HOT!

Sorry I didn't post Today....

2010-03-02T21:23:00.001-08:00

I was busy coughing up a lung.

Seriously, I have some great sick day traditions but don't have the energy. I finally went to Urgent Care last night after five days of freezing/hot sweats with temps ranging from 100 - 103 degrees and a cough that NyQuil couldn't touch.

The Dr. was kind enough to tell me I either have a sinus infection or the beginning stages of phenomena. Awesome. He gave me some great stuff though and I'm doing a lot better today. He also sent me home with a mask to wear around the girls...but unfortunately I think it is too late. Jeff has been a trooper and took two sick days to help out but that didn't stop them from wanting to snuggle.
I don't have to tell you that babes don't understand that they need to stay away from sick Mama.
Maisy has had a tough day....hopefully tonight will be better for her.

Anyway, the best thing about being sick is realizing how great it is when you start feeling better. Wish us all luck over here! I think we'll be needing it. :)

Tradition Tuesday - March

2010-02-22T18:56:00.000-08:00

St. Patrick's Day Dinner and a Movie:

Prepare an all green dinner with green mashed potatoes, or rice along with some green soup or pasta. Your festive dinner will only be served to those who are dressed head to toe in green. Each year the outfits your family and friends dream up will get more outrageous. Soon, this will become one of your favorite holiday activities.
After dinner settle in for a St. Patrick's Day Movie and a yummy treat (green sherbet and Sprite floats).
Here's a list of favorites:

Finian's Rainbow
Luck of the Irish (2001)
The Last Leprechaun
The Magical Legend of the Leprechauns
The Secret of Roan Inish
Leapin Leprechauns
Darby O'Gill and the Little People

Leprechaun Trap:

Begin your celebration by building a Leprechaun trap. Start by gathering your supplies. Items from around the house will do; shoebox, glitter, pipe cleaners, markers, construction paper, wrapping paper, glue stick, egg carton, tape etc. Your children will love creating the design, from the bait to the trap. Everyone knows that leprechauns are quick and crafty….So you'll have to lure them in with bait…a piece of gold (chocolate coin), a penny or a 4 leaf clover or even Lucky Charms cereal. Leave your trap out the night before St. Patty's Day and in the morning see what's occurred.
Now sit back and enjoy the delight on your children’s faces when they see the mess left behind by the little green men as they tried to remove the box from the trap: chairs turned over, things pulled out of drawers, maybe even a leftover leprechaun hat or boot or green glitter.

Leprechaun for a Day:

Everyone needs the luck of the Irish, but some of us have more luck than others. St. Patrick’s Day is a perfect time to give some of it away! Enlist your children/friends as “Leprechaun’s for a Day” and send them out to share their luck. Make cookies or another simple treat and write a special note and deliver it to a neighbor or friend. Remember they are to act as a Leprechaun and never get caught! It’s also fun to leave a trail of green glitter behind…to add to the lucky magic of the day!

For Your Monday Enjoyment

2010-02-14T23:42:00.000-08:00

Sorry I've been MIA lately. Busy getting ready for Big Announcement #2. Hope you are having a great Monday. If you need to laugh, this video of Laurel and her favorite "Hello Kitty" boots should do the trick...enjoy!

And the Winners Are...

2010-02-05T12:38:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone who shared! WOW it was so fun to read about some of your favorite memories and traditions. Like I said before, "Don't you just love, love?"

To the winners:

and from Me!

The three lucky winners are:

Joni from "A Sneak Peak"

Sarah from "Life is What We Make It" (check out their cute Heart Attacked Kitchen)

and another

Sarah from "Neocentric Traditional"

Ladies I will be contacting you shortly. Or you can just email me and let me know which pattern you would like!

Thanks again to all of you for sharing your ideas and memories. It was a TREAT!

Tradition Tuesday - Share Your Favorite Valentines Tradition and Win!

2010-02-02T06:41:00.000-08:00

What's up for grabs?

A free pattern of your choice from the shop!

I will be picking THREE winners!

This will be a quick one (ends Thursday night) so hurry and leave a comment!

If you don't have a tradition, tell me about one of your favorite Valentine Days.

Good Luck!

Tradition Tuesday - Romancing Your Man!

2010-01-25T20:05:00.000-08:00

I don't have to tell you that Valentines Day is right around the corner! It is one of my favorite holidays because I love....LOVE. Don't you?! It's a great opportunity to show the men in our lives how much we LOVE loving them!

So I'm sending you over (click on the title below) to one of my all time favorite blogs on this subject. Cher's blog is BURSTING with idea's of what you can do to romance your Man! He'll squeal (grunt?)with delight, I guarantee!

They ARE Listening

2010-01-20T21:22:00.000-08:00

My brother's AMAZING kidlets

I read this on my friend Miriam Dyer's blog (check out her 365 days of gratitude photos...in a word: inspiring). It was a great reminder to me. If you want to see pictures that go along with each line, go to where she found it: The Maternal Lens.

19 Things we should say to our children

1. I love you! There is nothing that will make me stop loving you. Nothing you could do or say or think will ever change that.

2. You are amazing! I look at you with wonder! Not just at what you can do, but who you are. There is no one like you. No one!

3. It’s all right to cry. People cry for all kinds of reasons: when they are hurt, sad, glad, or worried; when they are angry, afraid, or lonely. Big people cry too. I do.

4. You’ve made a mistake. That was wrong. People make mistakes. I do. Is it something we can fix? What can we do? It’s all over. You can start fresh. I know you are sorry. I forgive you.

5. You did the right thing. That was scary or hard. Even though it wasn’t easy, you did it. I am proud of you; you should be too.

6. I’m sorry. Forgive me. I made a mistake.

7. You can change your mind. It’s good to decide, but it is also fine to change.

8. What a great idea! You were really thinking! How did you come up with that? Tell me more. Your mind is clever!

9. That was kind. You did something helpful and thoughtful for that person. That must make you feel good inside. Thank you!

10. I have a surprise for you. It’s not your birthday. It’s for no reason at all. Just a surprise, a little one, but a surprise.

11. I can wait. We have time. You don’t have to hurry this time.

12. What would you like to do? It’s your turn to pick. You have great ideas. It’s important to follow your special interests.

13. Tell me about it. I’d like to hear more. And then what happened? I’ll listen.

14. I’m right here. I won’t leave without saying good-bye. I am watching you. I am listening to you.

15. Please and Thank You. These are important words. If I forget to use them, will you remind me?

16. I missed you. I think about you when we are not together!

17. Just try. A little bit. One taste, one step. You might like it. Let’s see. I’ll help you if you need it. I think you can do it.

18. I’ll help you. I heard you call me, here I am. How can I help you? If we both work together, we can get this done. I know you can do it by yourself, but I’m glad to help since you asked.

19. What do you wish for? Even if it’s not yet time for birthday candles and we don’t have a wishbone, it’s still fun to hear about what you wish for, hope for, and dream about.

You are probably already saying these things to your kidlets but I really appreciated this reminder. They are precious little people for such a short time. I feel so privileged to get to do this whole "Mama" thing. Don't you?

Big Announcement #1 and a Special Deal ONLY for My Readers!

2010-01-19T21:49:00.000-08:00

Do you ever wonder what it would have been like to live in a previous generation? What would your worries be? What would your passions be?

WHAT WOULD YOU BE WEARING?

It's fun to look back on the styles and patterns of yesteryear! It's actually a little passion of mine. If you gave me whole day to do whatever I wanted, I would probably choose (after sleeping A LOT)a day filled with antique shops, garage sales and thrift stores looking for patterns and pictures that inspire. I have a feeling I'm not alone!

For a while now I have been collecting vintage pattern books and pamphlets. I also have a collection of clippings from old vintage magazines (like really old). I love the styles and the inspiration they bring.

So here's the BIG ANNOUNCEMENT:

I have an ever growing pile of patterns that I have learned recently can be shared as they are now considered "public domain" (i.e. their copyright has expired and not been renewed). So I have started the process of cleaning them up and creating PDF's to be purchased in the shop!

To celebrate, and to thank all of you for your support and kindness. I will be offering ALL the patterns in the shop (yes even the Pod and Scoop patterns) at 30% off! This is ONLY for you.

IMPORTANT: When you check out, just put "Friend" in notes to seller and I will reimburse you 30% of your purchase.

Here are a few of my favorites:

Paton's Bayeux Crocheted Pilot-style hat

Bear Brand Babushka Style Hat Knitting Pattern

Brunswick Hooded Sweater Knitting Pattern

Paton's Crusader Hat Knitting Pattern

Also, you can bet that I will be sharing some of these patterns with you FREE of charge in future posts. Just stay with me ladies....there are some exciting gifts on the way!

Tradition Tuesday - A Wedding in the Woods

2010-01-18T21:07:00.001-08:00

For centuries it has been an old superstition that Valentines Day is the day birds select their mates; why not prepare the wedding supper?! Prepare balls of peanut butter, raisins and seeds (freeze to keep shape). Tie with big red ribbons from the trees and watch the newlyweds enjoy the feast!

Inspired by Sarah Ban Breathnach's Mrs. Sharps Traditions

BIG ANNOUNCEMENT #1 COMING TOMORROW!

The Sisterhood of the Traveling SHOES!

2010-01-14T10:05:00.000-08:00

My Cousin Thelma (who I wish you could all have a couple of hours to just sit down with and get to know because she is THAT cool) asked me to let all of you "sisters" know about what is going on over in her world.

For the last month or so she has had the privilege of owning the above pictured shoes. She won the opportunity from Christie who got them from the original owner Diane. So she is the third in what is hoped will be a long line of ladies who get to experience the Sisterhood of the Traveling Shoes.

Now, don't give me that look! I know most of you are looking out the window and seeing snow and rain and frost and saying out loud to the computer "Where in the HECK am I going to wear a pair of sandals in January?" I say "Buck up little campers!" It's all about adventure and well....

That didn't stop Thelma! You can read about her shoe adventures in the wettest State in the Union here!

So would you like to have a chance at being part of the Shoe Sisterhood? Here's what you need to know:

The shoes are size 9 (a size I wore at age 12 and sadly never looked back...but for all of you with dainty feet...enjoy!)
You will receive the shoes in the mail from Thelma and get to keep them for 30 days.
While you are wearing the shoes, you will want to take pictures and blog about some of your adventures in the shoes.
At the end of 30 days, you will need to hold a giveaway on your blog (or a friends if you don't have one) and keep the shoes a-travelin'
Of course link to Thelma so that everyone can follow the origins of the shoes as they travel around the globe!

So, if you are ready for your chance, click HERE to leave a comment and good luck (drawing will be held on Thelma's blog on the 22nd of January)!

Tradition Tuesday - Love is in the Air - February Traditions

2010-01-12T11:53:00.000-08:00

Picture courtesy of I Live on a Farm

February Tradition Ideas
For those of you who are new, you can find an explanation on Tradition Tuesdays HERE

Heart Attack: Decorate your childrens doors with hearts shaped notes telling them how much you love them. You can do this for neighbors or widows or anyone else who may enjoy it.

Secret Valentine: A week before Valentine’s Day arrange for all family members to pick names out of a hat/bowl. The name that each chooses becomes their “Secret Valentine”. During the week leading up to Valentine’s Day, each person does something nice for their Secret Valentine. For example, writing little, kind, notes, cleaning their bedroom, secret acts of service, etc. On Valentines Day have a party or special dinner where everyone reveals their Secret Valentine. This could be done in your family or each family member could think of a friend or neighbor who might enjoy this.

Handmade Valentine Cards:

Before Valentines Day get together as a family and make special Valentine cards for all of the widows in your neighborhood or congregation. On Valentines day deliver them either in secret or face to face.

Hidden Hearts:

Make as many hearts as you wish for your special someone. These hearts can be made out of paper or fabric, as fancy or simple as you’d like. On each heart write all of the reasons you cherish them. Then choose random spots to hide these handmade hearts. Your sweetheart will surely be touched when they come across these cherished notes in unlikely places (a briefcase, a cereal box, car, etc.)

Hot Dog (For Ground Hog's Day): This game is Punxsutawney's version of "Hot Potato." Arrange the family in a circle. Give one person a stuffed groundhog, or a picture of a groundhog taped to a stick. As the music plays pass the groundhog around the circle. When the music stops the person holding the groundhog is OUT. Play continues until there is only one Groundhog King or Queen left.

Penny Heads or Tails (for President's Day): Abraham Lincoln (16th President of the United States) was born on the 12^th of February. Play penny heads or tails. Get in the car with a penny. If it lands on heads turn right, if it lands on tails turn left. Do this 16 times and see where you end up.

Cherry Tree Pie (President's Day): George Washington's Birthday is on the 22nd. Tell your family the story of George Washington and his families cherry tree. Talk about his honesty and integrity. Make a cherry pie for a treat.

As always, we'd all love to hear some of your tradition ideas!

Random Updates

2010-01-07T18:49:00.000-08:00

So I just thought I'd share a couple of things.

1. I just started Weight Watchers online on Monday and I can honestly say I am LOVING IT. I am doing the "Simply Filling" Plan and do not feel like I'm on a diet. I love that I can count my points online (SO easy and I am learning so much doing this) and don't have to go to a meeting. It really just works for me. My goal is to loose my 20 lbs. of baby fat by March. I'd love to know if any of you are doing this too or any other diets you are doing and what your goals are!

2. I've just discovered my new favorite kid's album (and adult too...). It's been around for a while I'm sure...but have you heard Ziggy Marley's "Family Time" album? Seriously so great and so fun to dance to with toddlers (or not). I use this as my morning workout. The girls and I dance, dance, DANCE (while Norah watches and laughs at us). On the slower songs, the girls act as my free weights. I am feeling the BURN with these little Yayhoo's!

3. I have some really exciting announcements for you coming SOON.

OK, ladies that is all for now, over and out. I would love to hear what you are up to...SERIOUSLY!

Tradition Tuesday - January 2010

2009-12-29T22:55:00.001-08:00

For those of you who are new, you can find an explanation on Tradition Tuesdays HERE

New Year’s Fortune Cake:

Try baking a New Year’s Fortune Cake. It doesn’t make any difference what kind of cake. Once the cake has been baked, cut small slits and insert some New Year’s fortune charms (these can be found at any local bead or craft store). Look for charms that represent predictions for the coming year (i.e. a heart for love, coin for riches, suitcase for travel, three leaved clover for luck, etc.). If they are really small you might want to attach a ribbon so they won’t be missed. With each piece of cake you not only get a delicious treat, but also a fortune to start off the New Year.

Note-able Memory Jar:

At the first of the year put out an empty jar with a note pad and pen by it. Whenever something noteworthy happens write it down and put it in the jar. On New Years Day go through and read your notable memories. Put all the notes in an envelope and place them in a book with the year written on the outside.

Candle Light Ceremony:

New Years Eve is the best time to reflect on the past, as well as contemplate the future. On New Years Eve (or New Years Day), set the table with a special candle for each person at your celebration, then lower the lights. One by one each person at the table lights the candle of another and shares a special memory or major achievement that the other person has accomplish during the past year. It is then the honored person’s turn to share their New Year’s resolutions with the rest of the group. This tradition is a wonderful way to share in each others trials and triumphs from the past year, and to lend support for future dreams and goals.

Winter Camping:

Go camping. Sit in front of the campfire and exchange stories about the last year and shares their resolutions for the year to come!

Little New Year:

On New Year’s Eve, each person in the family sets a plate out on the hearth for the new Little New Year to leave them a gift and a note. The Little New Year gives each person 10 cents for each year of his or her life, a candy bar, and usually a small game, toy, or trinket. The biggest treat, however, is the note each person receives. It is always written in sloppy handwriting as if a baby had written it, and it tells each person how nice they have been the past year and how the Little New Year hopes each person will be just as nice in the year to come. Whatever the New Year says and gives should be pertinent to what is going on in the lives of each individual.

As always, PLEASE feel free to leave a comment with some of YOUR favorite tradition ideas for us all to enjoy!

Let Earth Recieve Her King

2009-12-25T21:35:00.000-08:00

I am so thankful for what this day means for me and you.

Wishing you all the Merriest of Christmases filled
with the love, peace and hope that only He can give.

The Winner's Are...And Good News for The Rest of You

2009-12-19T08:14:00.000-08:00

First of all, thanks for your wonderful comments! I had forgotten about some of those movies. It was also great to read about what you do to remember the True reason for the season.

The Winner's of the Mr. Krueger's Christmas DVD's are (drum roll please):

lajamison said...

I like the old Rudolph classic with Burl Ives. I watched it every year with my mother.

December 16, 2009 4:40 AM

and

Asiyah said...

My favorite Christmas movie is "Charlie Brown's Christmas". It funny, poignant and simply told. My kids and I enjoyed it just last night.

December 16, 2009 7:46 AM

CONGRATS LADIES!

Please shoot me an email with your addresses so I can get this to you A.S.A.P.

For the rest of you, I just found a way that you can get the movie for FREE. Click HERE to get the details.

Tradition Wednesday ;)- Christmas with Jimmy and a GIVEAWAY!

2009-12-15T23:49:00.000-08:00

Paulparker.com

One of my favorite Christmas traditions is spending a couple of nights with Jimmy Stewart. He is my ALL TIME, FAVORITE actor. I think a big part of the reason (besides his charming grin and famous droll) is because he was such a decent guy in real life.

Want some examples? How about the fact that he stayed married and faithful to his wife for more than 45 years (sadly, very rare for Hollywood stars) or the fact that he had twin girls (hey just like us!) and that he was known for being humble, kind, and professional and treating all women and men with respect. You can read more about him and his WONDERFUL LIFE here.

Most of us know about one of his most famous movies "It's a Wonderful Life". But many of you probably don't know that in his later years he starred in a short Christmas film called "Mr. Krueger's Christmas". In this 20 minute film, he charmingly plays a humble widower who is alone on Christmas but whose goodness and vivid imagination bring him to wonderful places (even conducting the Mormon Tabernacle Choir) and help us all remember the "Reason for the Season".

IT IS A TREASURE!

For those of you who HAVE seen it and love it like we do, you might really enjoy this story written by the director Keith Merrill about Jimmy Stewart on the set of Mr. Krueger's Christmas from Meridian Magazine.

A few years ago my husband bought a bunch of copies to give to friends and co-workers and we ended up with a few extra copies.

SO, I'M GIVING TWO COPIES OF "Mr. Krueger's Christmas" AWAY!

What you need to do:

1. Leave me a comment telling us what your favorite Christmas movie is and why.

2. For another chance to win, tell us how you remember the true meaning of Christmas.

THAT'S IT FOLKS!

Now enjoy some scenes from both movies:

It's a Wonderful Life "Paste it Daddy!" Zuzu's pedals

Mr. Krueger's Christmas - Imagining Carolers

It's a Wonderful Life

Clarissa (Kamee Lyons) Getting a Kiss Off Screen

Hee Haw! It's a Wonderful Life

Mr. Krueger conducting the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (One of his lifelong dreams)

Make Your Own Toddler Jeans EASY TUTORIAL

2009-12-13T21:33:00.000-08:00

This project was born of frustration. The girls are too skinny for 2T jeans but too long for 18-24 month jeans. I wanted a pair of jeans that would fit them, be easy to pull up and down (because someday I hope they will be pulling them up and down to go potty!) and look cute. I can say that these jeans have fit the bill and they were SO EASY to make! If I can do this...YOU CAN!

What you will need:

Pair of old maternity jeans (you can use regular jeans and just add Lycra, knit or even elastic for the waist).

Thread

Scissors

Tape Measure

Embroidery Floss (optional)

OK, on to the tutorial:

Find an old pair pants/jeans to use as your pattern. If you don't have any jeans that fit, use old ones and just add on the inches where you want when you cut them out. Fold your jeans in half so that the legs are lying on top of each other. Cut everywhere you see the white arrows.

When you are done cutting your shape should look like this:

Now lay your two pieces right sides together. Sew just in the U-shaped area (I stitched twice for extra durability then serged my edges). If you don't have a serger handy, just do a zig zag stich on the edge to reduce fraying. Like this:

Once that is done, you will open up your pants and again lay right-sides together in your pants shape like the picture under this, now sew the sides (and serge or zig zag to reduce fraying):

They will look like this:

Then do this (almost done people):

Now like I said before, I used maternity jeans (got 'em free). You can use regular jeans and use any knit or Lycra fabric you have lying around, or just cut some more jean material and do an elastic casing.

Maternity jeans are the easiest though (and pretty easy to find at your local thrift shop if you don't have a pair you are ready to part with). Take your waist measurement to the elastic band on the top like this:

This is a blurry picture of me sewing the side of the cut elastic:

This is what it should look like after you have sewn the sides ( well you may want to actually cut it straight...how embarrassing for ME!)

Bring your elastic up about an inch away from your edge then sew around as closely to the edge of your elastic as you can like this:

Then cut off the excess and serge or zigzag around the entire seam to finish it off. Flip it up and this is what they will look like:

Unless you want to make some pockets. What I did is make myself a little pattern based on the pockets of their outgrown jeans (just added about an inch for seam allowance to all sides):

Cut them out of the excess jean material you now have on hand. Serge or zigzag the top of your pocket and then press everything down like so:

Now you are going to actually sew all around your pocket:

There, you have two little pockets:

Then if you want to get fancy (or crazy as my husband would say) you can do some hand embroidery. I just did some simple stitches (great project to do while watching your favorite movie/show):

Then just pin them on, and sew on top of your previous stitches and they will look like this:

I also plan on stitching some fake pockets and zipper lines in the front when I get a minute. I love the idea of doing a little trompe l'oeil on the front. I'll update when I have finished that and hopefully get a photo of the front.

These two are getting harder and harder to capture!

The Ends

Tutorial TEASER

2009-12-09T14:20:00.000-08:00

That's right ladies! We'll be making JEANS the fast and EASY way (cheerio not included). Stay Tuned!

Tradition Tuesday - Share A Tradition, Win a Pair of Clippies and ANOTHER Giveaway Announcement!

2009-12-08T06:14:00.000-08:00

Today over at my sister's blog, there is a giveaway going on! All you have to do is leave a comment telling about your favorite Christmas Tradition/Memory.

You could win two pairs of any of the clippies she has available in her shop! So head on over!

Also! There is a Giveaway going on today at Steph's Blog Somewhat Simple as part of her 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways. You could win TWO of my PDF Patterns! So head on over there as well!

Camille, The Beehive Bazaar and a Christmas Song just for YOU

2009-12-04T05:25:00.000-08:00

For those of you in or around the Provo, Utah area, there is a little somthin' somthin' happening RIGHT NOW through tomorrow night. I am giddy to get there and see all of it for myself.

My very talented sister (in law but more in heart) Camille (founder of Beal's School):

Jonathan Canlas took this

is sharing a booth with another friend Ashley Mackay (who happens to be a very talented graphic artist, if you order any patterns after January you'll see what I mean). You can check out their introduction page here .

They will have all kinds of goodies. Including Tiger Fire's (Camille and my brother Micah) latest Christmas album. This is them looking all cool (they were literally freezing cool up in Park City posing for this:

Jonathan Canlas took this one too

Would you like a taste? Here's your little gift of MUSIC (if you likey, likey you can thank them here and here).

Tradition Tuesday - It's The Most Wonderful Time of The Year!

2009-12-01T21:46:00.000-08:00

The World Wide Web is FULL of ideas for what to do around the Holidays. I have compiled some of my favorites. I unfortunately don't have any for those of you who celebrate Hanukkah. I'd love to hear some of your ideas. So please enjoy these ideas and share a few of your own favorites!

Handmade Christmas:

Cut out a small piece of paper and write the name of each family member. Put these in a bowl or hat and have each member draw a name. The name that is drawn is the person for whom a gift will be handmade. (It is best to do this early so that everyone has enough time to create their special handmade gift).

Reindeer Mix:

Make a special “Reindeer Mix” for Santa’s reindeer. A good recipe is oats with gold and silver glitter. On Christmas Eve, tell your children to leave the mix on the driveway, front lawn, or any other spot where the reindeer might want to rest and enjoy a snack. After the kids have gone to bed, clear most of the mix away, leaving just a few oats as evidence that the reindeer have made their visit.

Santa’s Little Helpers:

This is a great time for children to learn to give. Set aside a box that can be filled with toys that your children choose to give. Help them clean the toys and put them in a special box labeled “For Santa”. Have them write a note to Santa explaining how they loved each toy or what their favorite memory was with each toy. Then help them explain that they would like them to be given to another girl or boy. They will be so excited to see the box empty Christmas morning with a special thank you note and treat form Santa. Save their letters and enjoy them years later.

Christmas Music Program:

Have a musical program in your home for elderly or single people living around you. Have refreshments and send each guest home with a little gift (i.e. bread, jam, cookies, etc.) or take a little program to cheer those confined in a hospital or rest home.

Four Gifts:

It’s easy to get carried away with gift giving. Help to keep the true spirit of Christmas by limiting your family to four gifts: Something to play with, eat, read and wear.

A Gift for Christ:

Have a special stocking or box that can be used for your gift to Christ. Give Jesus a gift of a goal for the coming year. Each person writes down their goal or gift to Christ and puts it in the stocking/box. Next Christmas each person evaluates their progress on their goal. (You can also do this at the beginning of December and evaluate progress on Christmas Day.)

What are some of YOUR favorite December Traditions?

In The Spirit of Thanksgiving - A Special Message for You

2009-11-26T08:37:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to share this today.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Tradition Tuesday and Meet My Cousin's Newest Creation

2009-11-23T19:27:00.000-08:00

Doesn't he just make you want to snuggle? This little guy is my cousin Jessica's newest creation and is available in her shop. Every little stitch on his incredibly soft, mohair little body is hand-stitched. There is only one in her shop so if you want him, you'd better go and get him soon!

Speaking of Warm and Snuggly, let's talk about traditions!

I'm ~~devouring~~ reading a wonderful book right now called

Mrs. Sharp's Traditions - Reviving Victorian Family Celebrations of Comfort and Joy.

It is written by the author of Simple Abundance - Sarah Ban Breathnach and is nothing less than a treasure.

If you are interested in reviving old traditions or starting new ones in your family and you enjoy beautiful Victorian art (which can be found on every page) I can guarantee that this book will be a treasure for you too.

I wanted to share a little excerpt with you. Sarah writes as if she were a

Victorian woman named Mrs. Sharp:

"May Mrs. Sharp share with you some of the principles of her old-fashioned petticoat philosophy of parenting, which for many years have guided and been a source of comfort to her?

First of all, obligations already existing in your family life can become perfect opportunities for family tradition making and togetherness.

Special family times must be scheduled into modern lives; they do not occur spontaneously.

Strong, emotionally healthy, and loving families spend time together - working and playing.

Third, never forget the three P's of perfect family life: setting priorities, planning, and prayer. These three elements are essential for parental peace of mind.

Fourth, by incorporating routine, rhythm, and ritual into your life, many happy moments and memories will flower.

Mrs. Sharp's Traditions - Sarah Ban Breathnach page 25

Wise words! Hope you are all having a wonderful Tuesday. Remember that the Etsy sale is still going on but not for long! Go and get your deals while you still can!

There is Beauty All Around

2009-11-21T09:01:00.001-08:00

The last of the leaves and Maisy's little feet

A beautiful site - yarn just begging to become something cozy

The last of the apples - just for eating

The last of this year's canning - White Grape Jelly

The sweetest little cherub basking in the warm, fall day

Look at that face!

This year's first snowflakes (with breakfast still on her face).

What is she thinking? Oh those blue, blue eyes.

I'm Thankful for Maternity Pants Skirt Tutorial

2009-11-19T16:00:00.000-08:00

The other day I was desperate for something new for the twins to wear to church. I wanted something that looked like fall. I went through my stash and found the perfect pair of Maternity pants...and this tutorial was born!

Three Reasons to Love This Tutorial:

1. You have a pair of Maternity pants that you swear if you have to wear one more time you will (fill in the blank), BUT they are in good condition. NOW you have an excuse to cut them up!

2. This is SO stinkin' fast and easy it may make you cry (tears of joy of course).

3. The finished product on your favorite little girl may also make you cry (tears of pride and joy of course).

Let's get started shall we?!

Supplies:

Aforementioned Maternity Pants (size depends on size of your child. I used a pair of size 12 for two 2T skirts)

Sewing machine

Thread to Match

Pins

Step 1: Lay your pants out and find the widest part of the leg (these pants are size 12...and no I never wore them...hence the tag. My sister gave them to me after her husband gave them to her when she was NOT pregnant...OOPS! She was a good sport about it. Too short for me but I've always loved the fabric).

OK moving on, now find a skirt that fits your child that will be a pattern of sorts and cut out your skirt(s).

Now you should have two pieces of fabric that look a lot like skirts (or one if that's all you choose to do).

Now go to the top of your pants and cut out the waist leaving about two inches of fabric on the bottom like so (these pants happened to be flat in the front with elastic on the back...yours may be different):

If your pants have an elastic on the back or all around, make sure to stitch it in place so that when you cut into it, you will not lose your elastic:

So as this sideways picture shows (darn blogger) you will need to do two seams so you can just cut right down the middle and you won't lose your gather or your elastic:

OK so now you have two skirts with two tops to sew on:

Decide where you want your front, back and sides to be and pin RIGHT SIDES together at the top of your skirt pieces (again sorry about the sideways picture):

It may be a little bit tricky with your elastic part just stretch and pin and remember that when you sew you will need to be stretching your elastic so it will all fit nicely:

Now first sew your front and back top part together at the side. Next sew all the way around getting as close as you can to the base of the original seam:

If you have a serger or over-lock machine, go around again and finish everything off:

Hem the bottom of your skirts and YOU ARE DONE! Here's a view of the front and back:

I got a little excited and did a quick little matching onesie with some of the extra material and some buttons I had lying around. You can also see the crocheted flower clippie. I'll be posting about these little jewels soon!

One of our beautiful little models showing us the front:

and the back:

Here's a view of the shirt front:

This is the first of three tutorials based on re-purposing Maternity Pants...so stay tuned! There will be some exciting Tutes ahead!

And the Winner Is!

2009-11-19T10:32:00.000-08:00

Courtesy of the Graphics Fairy

Well I feel like the winner with all of the great tradition ideas shared by all of you! If you have a minute you should read some of your fellow readers' traditions. So many warm and wonderful ideas. Thanks so much for sharing!

On to the winner of the patterns. The winner is:

Comment #5

Domestic Princess said...

I posted about your wonderful giveaway! =)

http://domesticprncs.blogspot.com/2009/11/giveaway-alert.html

November 17, 2009 6:11 PM

It paid to post it on your blog Domestic Princess! Congrats!

For those of you who didn't win, don't you worry! There will be many giveaways in the next month that I'll be making you aware of.

The first of which is TOMORROW (Friday)!

Head on over to meet Chris at Pickup Some Creativity. You won't regret it. She has all kinds of great tutorials and ideas. She also is debuting her new PDF pattern(an adorable little girl's purse) and giving away both a pattern and a ready made purse! I can't wait to enter and hopefully win. I can think of two little girls who would love one of these to go with their Christmas dresses this year!

Tradition Tuesday and a GIVEAWAY!

2009-11-17T17:00:00.000-08:00

Courtesy of Graphics Fairy

I thought that since Thanksgiving is right around the corner, it might be fun to learn about some of your traditions. What do you do with your family or friends to celebrate this time of Thanksgiving?

And because I know there are some lurkers out there, I thought I'd give you a bit of incentive.

So here it is:

I'm giving away TWO free patterns from the shop to the winner!

TO ENTER:

1. Leave me a comment telling me about one tradition you do or have done in the past and loved at Thanksgiving time.

2. For a second chance to win, post about this giveaway on your blog. Come back and leave me another comment saying you have done so.

This is a one day giveaway so I will be choosing the winner on Wednesday evening and posting the results here.

That's it!

I can't wait to read all of your comments!

Note: For more tradition ideas, click here

And don't forget, there's a HUGE sale going on RIGHT NOW in the SHOP!

HUGE SALE IN THE ETSY SHOP

2009-11-16T15:06:00.000-08:00

THIS WEEK ONLY we will be having a BIG sale in the Etsy shop.

Two patterns for 10 dollars.

Also, if you have been thinking about getting a license to make and sell Pod Swaddlers

NOW IS THE TIME.

I am offering Licensing Agreements at HALF PRICE this week for all of those who'd like to add the Pod Swaddler to their craft shows, Etsy shops, Bazaar's ect. and make a little extra Christmas/Holiday money.

So head on over and get your DEALS!

How Cool is THIS?!

2009-11-15T00:35:00.000-08:00

Savers, one of my all time favorite thrift stores has an awesome site with some really exciting ideas/tutorials! Just click on over and find access to some beautifully done PDF tutorials for the Holidays!

Some Thanksgiving Day Game Ideas...

2009-11-12T18:58:00.000-08:00

Norman Rockwell Smithsonian Collection

I found these great game ideas at Holidash.com. I think we will seriously be using a few of these!

1. Name That Turkey Tune
Make your guests sing for their supper with this family-friendly game. Each player takes turns singing their favorite songs by replacing the lyrics with the word 'GOBBLE.' The first player to correctly identify the tune is the new 'gobbler' and the fun continues.

2. Thanksgiving Bingo
If you can't pull your family away from the tube, why not make them work while they watch? Family Fun has a few printable bingo cards for Thanksgiving Day's TV watching, so hand out a few sheets and pencils and go to town. Loser has dish duty!

3. Apple Paring Game
In case you didn't quite get enough dessert, bring in the family for a fun, reward-driven game. Each player gets an apple and a peeler or knife (for adults) and has sixty seconds to peel the longest apple strip they can muster. Winner gets to take a fresh-baked apple pie home for Black Friday!

4. Toilet Paper Thanks
Pass around a roll of toilet paper to the entire room and ask them to tear as many sheets off as they'd like (but don't tell them why they're doing so!). After every player has chosen their desired number of sheets, announce that they have to share one thing they're thankful for... per sheet they ripped from the roll. Those greedy folk won't know what hit them!

What do you do on Thanksgiving Day?

I Finally Did It! Our Family, Silhouette Style.

2009-11-10T23:00:00.000-08:00

This is one of those projects I have been meaning to do for YEARS! I finally got to it the other day when all of the girls slept an extra hour (crazy, wonderful, day). It took me longer than their nap time unfortunately, which meant craziness for a little bit but it was worth it. I'm so glad these are done and so pleased with how they turned out (now let's see how long it will take me to actually hang them on the wall).

There are a lot of great tutorials out there on all kinds of different methods.

I just kind of figured it out as I went. So I thought I'd share my process:

Note #1: I just realized that I forgot to mention in step 5 that I after adding the needed details I cut out the silhouette and then traced it onto the black acid free paper. When you cut, make sure to go very slow...I had to do my silhouette twice after I cut one of my lips off by mistake!

Note #2: Thanks Britt for donating your extra wild, extra cool frames to the cause.

Have you done this project? Send me a link, I'd love to see!

Tradition Tuesday - The Staying Power of Traditions

2009-11-09T22:22:00.000-08:00

One Leaf by Leo Reynolds

Every Tuesday I will be sharing a little something to help you and me establish meaningful traditions in our homes.

This Tuesday's "Tradition Tidbit" comes from Richard and Linda Eyre. They are writers of many books but their most famous "Teaching Your Children Values" is one of my favorites. They also have a great website called Valuesparenting.com (awesome resource).

Here is what Richard Eyre has to say about a good tradition's staying power:

"One other personal incident will illustrate the 'staying power' and bonding influence of family traditions. On my birthday in October, we had always raked huge piles of leaves with the kids and then jumped in them, stuffed them in our shirts, thrown them in the air, and just generally had a wild time. We thought as the kids got older, their interest in such a frivolous activity would fade. On the contrary, when they were teens, the leaf piles just got bigger. Finally, one year, four of our children were away at school or living abroad. On my birthday, four birthday cards arrived. As I opened the first, a leaf fell out and a note, 'Dad, I honored your birthday tradition. Here's a leaf from my jumping pile. I love you.' Through my tears I opened the other three - and a leaf fell from each."

He continues:

"Take some time and review your family traditions. Do they help you in teaching values and in developing better communication? Adjust and alter to make your traditions productive as well as enjoyable. List them by month in a special book of some kind or put them on a family calendar so they can be anticipated and planned for. Make them a priority until they take on a life of their own" Richard Eyre Valuesparenting.com - Family Infrastructure

You can read more about establishing traditions and find many more resources on the Eyre's websites: Valuesparenting.com, The Power of Moms, and their newest endeavor The Scaffolding Coalition (all AMAZING resources!)

How Do You Like THEM Apples?!

2009-11-08T15:47:00.000-08:00

My mom came the first week of October for a day. Our tree was FULL this year so we decided to keep the girls busy and pick, pick, pick. The girls loved helping Grandma:

We also got some apples from my Grandma and Grandpa Anderson's tree this year and with the help of Jeff's parents and awesome Kitchenaid attachments we made 19 quarts of yummy applesauce! Hooray for apples and hooray for the wonderful parents/grandparents that helped!

OH MARTHA!!!

2009-11-06T12:48:00.000-08:00

I just got my little email from Martha today. Yes, she emails me at least once a day.

Some seriously COZY ideas! Here are some of my favorites:

Thanks Martha!

Anything inspiring you at the moment? I'd love to know!

Enchanted Childhood

2009-11-04T22:02:00.000-08:00

Laurel and Maisy by Grandma Dahl's Stream

Starr Valley, NV

"There is a garden in every childhood, an enchanted place where colors are brighter, the air softer, and the morning more fragrant than ever again." - Elizabeth Lawrence

Traditions Tuesday - The November Edition

2009-11-03T07:18:00.000-08:00

For the introduction to this new Tuesday feature click here.

I'm so excited that November is the month to debut this new feature. When I think of the month of November I feel warm all over and can almost drink the memories of love from family and friends...not to mention all of the wonderful tastes and smells.

I hope you will enjoy these ideas and feel free to share some of your favorites!

Letters of Gratitude:
Start a family Gratitude Journal to be kept up throughout the year. Each night, a family member can share something that they are grateful for. Share the highlights of this family tradition at the dinner table next Thanksgiving Day.

Thanksgiving Tablecloth:
Designate a particular tablecloth for your family Thanksgiving celebrations. Provide fabric markers where guests can record their “gratitudes” or special prayers for the year ahead. Ask your guests to sign and date each message. Use the same tablecloth year after year and add another one as your family grows.

Tree of Thanks:
Collect colorful leaves from your yard or local park. To preserve them, seal them in clear Con-Tact paper. Every year, each family member can pick two or three of the pressed leaves and write one thing they are grateful for on the front of each with permanent markers, then put the date on the back. Tape a trunk made out of construction paper to the wall and add the leaves, new and old. Your family will get a big kick out of looking back to see what they were grateful for in the past. (Note: you can also use leaves made from paper or synthetic leaves from your local craft store.)

Time of Thanks Devotional:
Sometime before or after Thanksgiving or even that evening, hold a “Time of Thanks Devotional”. This is a time to share poems, songs, and stories about thanksgiving and gratitude. At the end of the devotional supply each family member with a pencil and paper/envelope so that they can choose someone in their lives to write a letter of gratitude to. The younger family members can dictate their letters while the adults and older children serve as scribes.

Pilgrims’ Kernels:
Just before you enjoy your feast, have on each of your plates 5 kernels of corn — a reminder of the Pilgrims' daily ration during one of their first difficult winters. Pass a basket around the table. Each person places one kernel of corn at a time into the basket and tells of one thing he or she is thankful for. The basket goes around the table 5 times. As each person tells what they are thankful for, record this in a special notebook that is only used for this occasion. Leave the notebook out for family members to review at their leisure throughout the day.

What Traditions Do You Have? We'd Love to Know!

Traditions Tuesday 's

2009-11-02T18:24:00.000-08:00

Us This Summer 2009

The goal is that the first Tuesday of each and every month, I will share with you some tradition ideas for that month that I have collected through the years. On the rest of the Tuesdays, I will share advice from the experts on how to make your family stronger and happier through daily, weekly, and monthly traditions.

Traditions I believe, are the glue that hold families together. I used to work as a consultant for a company called Once Upon a Family. Really great company and great products. The founder Lorle Campos, shared this important piece of advice:

The Essential Ingredients of Memorable Celebrations/Traditions:

Meaningful Participation

Expressing Emotions

Magical Moments: Suspense Surprise

Oohs and Aahs...Satisfying the Senses

Record and Remember

You are here because you are Special

"One thing that will just about guarantee the success of any celebration or get-together is participation. The more everyone is involved, the more memorable it will be for all. Satisfying the senses (food, décor, lighting, music, etc.) will keep your guests focused on the here and now, to enjoy the moment and whatever you have planned for them. A little magic goes a long way (anticipation, suspense, surprise) and the display of positive emotions (humor, love, appreciation, support, admiration, and hope for the future) has a powerful impact on how we remember the event. Let each guest know you have invited them because they are special in some way, and their presence adds to the joy and success of the celebration. And, last but not least, taking photos, that capture the mood of your get-together, can enhance reality by keeping memories alive."

Lorle Campos The Little Things are the Big Things

Great advice! I think so many traditions happen naturally when these things are done. These are the memories that stick and that we want to do over and over again. I can't wait to share a whole bunch of tradition ideas with you for the month of November tomorrow on Tradition Tuesday!

P.S. I also hope you will feel welcome to share some of your families' favorite traditions with all of us each Tuesday as well!

Halloween 2009

2009-11-01T21:19:00.000-08:00

Just in case you couldn't figure it out...The girls were the famous Three Blind Mice and Jeff and I were The Farmer and The Farmers Wife (sans carving knife).

We were again in charge of our ward's/congregation's Halloween party this year...all went well. We are still thanking our lucky stars that no one was seriously injured during the pinata part of the party (imagine blindfolded child swinging steel bat literally two inches away from a crowd of small children...).

The girls wore their sunglasses and ears for mere seconds but I'm so glad we captured at least one of those seconds at Jeff's parent's house (Hooray for Shirley!). I told Jeff on the way home from Jerry and Shirley's that I felt like Halloween had been a success now that we had at least ONE picture where all three girls had on both their ears and their glasses. Don't worry, I know I'm pretty neurotic sometimes.

You can probably look at the girls costumes and figure out how I did them. All I have to say is "I LOVE FELT" so fun and easy to work with. I put a layer of sparkly tulle over the pink on the belly and ears just to give them something extra and then of course a cute bow on their tails. They were the Dollywood version of blind mice I guess.

Anyway it was another fun year. Hope you all had a fun, safe and Happy Halloween!

Beals' School Bags

2009-10-21T10:19:00.000-07:00

The girls needed a little bag to take with them to Beal's School for things like diapers, drinks, etc. So I made some very simple little bags for them and all of their little classmate cousins.

I basically cut out two squares, serged sides and top, folded over and sewed the top edge down. Then for the handle got some non-fraying ribbon sewed it together and then to each side to make a messenger type bag. They all looked the same so I quickly embroidered each child's first initial on the front.

Fast and Easy....just the way I like it!

Please Excuse The Dust...

2009-10-13T21:46:00.000-07:00

Classic Crazy Maisy

I'm working on cleaning up this cluttered ol' blog! So please continue to be the classy, cool, patient, readers that I know you are. Everything will be up and running soon!

OK, Where Has This Awesome Trick Been My Whole Life?

2009-10-04T18:04:00.000-07:00

Am I the only one that didn't know you could make your own brown sugar using molasses?
The other day I stumbled upon this . Is there anything Amy Karol doesn't know...seriously?
I just happened to be out of brown sugar and so thought I'd give it a try.

So just like Amy said, I added one tablespoon for every one cup of sugar.
Mixed it together with my hands and Wha-La!:

Beautifully Brown Sugar that tastes delish and worked perfectly in my muffins!

Beals' School Dresses

2009-10-01T17:54:00.000-07:00

I've been meaning to post about this pattern for a while. I really enjoyed it. I made both dresses for the girls in less than two hours. The pattern/tutorial was great. So easy to follow and fun and has so many possibilities for variations on colors/fabrics. You can get it here.

Just waiting for the carpool to arrive.

I am working on a whole post that is devoted to Beal's School so stay tuned for that. Any patterns/tutorials you are loving? I'd like to know.

Homemade Laundry Soap!? C'mon Hannah, Don't You Think That's Going A Bit Too Far?

2009-09-26T19:43:00.000-07:00

I would have said the same thing if I hadn't tried it and loved it!

So flippin' easy and so fast....and IT WORKS...like REALLY WELL!

Here's what I did:

Gathered Arm and Hammer Washing Soda, Borax, Fels-Naptha (according to the sites I read and I will list below, you don't need to use Fels-Naptha, you can use any soap of your choice).

Used the fine grater and grated the Fels-Naptha

Mixed 1 1/2 cup of Washing Soda, 1 1/2 cup Borax and 1 Bar of Fels-Naptha

Done and DONE!

I only use 2 Tbsp. per load and our clothes have never been cleaner!

Note: I also put in a little scoop of Oxy Clean in with our laundry just because we have crazy, dirty little toddlers. Also, I still use fabric softener but according to our washer/dryer repairman you only need about half of what the bottle says you need. I kept and old container and poured half of a new one in the old one and added water to the rest. It works great and we basically get double the softener for what we pay.

You can make a liquid or powdered version. Both are low suds which was important for our washer and most newer ones.

Here is where I found the inspiration and what I based my recipe on:

tipnut.com
thesimpledollar.com
theplanetgreen.discovery.com

I'm also working on getting a dishwasher detergent recipe. The one I tried isn't working as well as I'd like...leaving a film on the dishes so I'll let you know when I have that one perfected. If anyone has tried this, let me know if you have any tips!

Fall Clippie Give Away!!!

2009-09-14T14:27:00.000-07:00

Some people excel at sports, others cooking. My sister Britta does fine with both of these but is a MASTER at making the cutest clippies you have ever laid your eyes on.

And now is your chance to get some of them for free! CLICK HERE and visit her blog. Even if you aren't a lucky winner, you will feel like you've won the lottery when you get a chance to look at some of her tutorials! Enjoy!

Fitted Sheet Skirt Tutorial

2009-09-10T13:20:00.001-07:00

Three reasons to love this tutorial:

1. No threading elastic...it's already there for you!
2. You can make this for yourself, for your six month old,
your poodle...the possibilities are endless people!
3. It's so fast, so easy, and so dang cute!
As the Queen Martha would say,"It's a GOOD thing."

I didn't do as well taking pictures of each step this time so make sure to read all of the following instructions before you do this:

1. Measure your victim's waist. Add an inch and write it down.
2. Measure from your victim's waist to the knee (or however long you'd like the skirt to be). Add an inch and write it down.
3. Find a cute fitted sheet (I found this one on the clearance rack at Wal-mart...better yet get a cute vintage one from your local thrift shop).
4. On the elastic part of the fitted sheet, measure (away from a seam) the length of your victim's waist measurement and sew over the elastic on each side (this is so that when you cut it, it won't go anywhere.
5. Fold your sheet in half so that the two sides you just sewed lay on top of each other (this part is a little tricky...do your best to get it to lay flat at least enough for where you will cut).
6. Measure down from the elastic to the measurement you wrote down for how long you'd like it to be. Mark it somehow.
7. Now cut from the OUTSIDE of where you sewed your elastic down. You can decide at this point how full you'd like your skirt to be. The more of an "A" looking cut, the fuller the skirt...the straighter your cut equals less fullness.
8. Almost done! Now sew a straight line at about a 5/8" seam allowance down the side.
9. Iron out your seam and sew it on both sides on the top.
10. On the bottom, clip excess fabric and fold over twice, iron and finish your seam.
11. ENJOY!!!

BOGO Sale Today and Tomorrow

2009-09-04T11:26:00.000-07:00

Click HERE to go to the shop!

You Can Can

2009-08-24T20:51:00.000-07:00

'Tis the season to be canning around here. I would love to know how many of you do this and love it. I seriously can't think of a more beautiful, fulfilling project. The whole process is full of wonderful smells, beautiful colors and that wonderful feeling of SAVING A LOT OF MONEY.

The "Domestic Diva" side comes out of me every time I do it...for real! It's one of those projects that really isn't hard but brings satisfaction almost every day. I love looking in the cupboards (or above the cupboards in my case) and seeing all of the bottled goodness just waiting to be enjoyed. It seriously brings me so much joy.

I thought I'd take pictures of the process of turning garden tomatoes into beautiful homemade "Ragu" sauce. Enjoy!

I wish I could say that this beautiful bounty is from our garden but after two years of success, this years garden struggled...really struggled. Thank goodness we have a wonderful neighbor who has more bounty than she can handle and calls us every other day begging us to "come and pick". We've been very happy to help her out ;)

Look at these gorgeous tomatoes!!! Oh the beauty!

I used my trusty Blendtec to blend the tomatoes, skins and all into a wonderful sauce and then added some tomato paste to thicken.
This is my Aunt Coralee's recipe with a few little additions of my own!

Just a tablespoon of lemon give them that little boost of acid just to be safe.

Look at all of those crystal clear bottles...soon to be filled

Bath time!

The finished product! Now I can put them on the shelf and
admire them just like little pieces of art! Oh yeah, and eat them too.

This is what happens to Norah when Mom is busy canning and can't save her from her evil twin sisters....Someday she'll get to taste the wonderful sauce and know it was all worth the torture.

Pod Sale

2009-08-21T08:11:00.000-07:00

20% Off ! CLICK HERE to get your deal!

Recycled Leather Shoes - Tutorial

2009-08-17T22:34:00.000-07:00

I don't know if I should call this a tutorial or a "This is What I Did - Learn From My Mistakes/Successes".

A couple of months ago I had an idea. I wanted shoes for the twins to be able to wear and not wear out quickly. I had purchased some patterns on Etsy and I knew if I could just get leather, they would be more durable and good for extended use. But I didn't want to pay for leather. So I went to my nearest thrift shop and bought some leather handbags for $.75 to $1.50 a piece and "Wha La!" Here is the result:

What I learned:

Soft subtle leather works the best.
If your leather is more rigid, you can use this for soles on fabric shoes...simply glue (or stitch) it on the bottom of your finished shoe.
You NEED a leather needle. This project is impossible (at least with my machine) without one.
These make up pretty quickly because you don't have to line them (you can if you want but there really is no need).
When cutting your bags apart, try to get as much in one piece as possible (as you are searching for bags at your local thrift shop, look for bags with large pieces of leather and maybe bring your pattern with you to get an idea of how big your pieces need to be).

There are a lot of great shoe patterns on Etsy for pretty reasonable prices. Most can be emailed to you almost instantly (which is nice for a not-so-patient, home-with-babies all day person like me). There are also some great FREE patterns available online. Here is a list:

Stardust Shoes

Kimono Shoes

Baby Lace Ups

Heather Bailey's Bitty Booty's

Three Seam Baby Shoes

On Pins and Needles

Mary Jane Tutorial

Have fun ladies! And if you end up doing this project will you let me know and show me pictures? I am working on finding a big enough bag to make some for myself. How cool would THAT be?

Guest Blogger: Becca from Blue Cricket Design

2009-08-13T23:02:00.001-07:00

Becca from Blue Cricket Design contacted me a little while ago and asked if I'd like to take part in what she has named "Freaky Friday". At first I thought she meant switching bodies for the day (what would I give to have those teeth?!) but she just meant switching blogs.

I love her inspiring blog and her sense of humor so I thought I would give you the opportunity to get to know her too. So without further adieu, here's Becca:

I'm Becca!

The gal behind Blue Cricket Design

I'm lucky enough to live a life I love! I've been blessed with a husband who has amazing taste in women, three girls who's adorable smiles make up for their need to write on my furniture and spit up on me all day and of course, a pretty awesome Craft room! What more could a girl ask for! I'm in love with all things vintage, inspiring and lovely! I see things as possibilities! Come see what I've created! I share project ideas, sewing How To's, Photoshop tutorials, kids ideas, decorating tips, recipes and more! And I've been known to have giveaways pop up when you least expect it so check back often!

Here are a few of my favorite projects!

CANNING WITH PIZZAZ!!!

PHOTOSHOP ACTIONS TUTORIAL!!!

PAPER FANS!!!

So jump on over to Blue Cricket Design and get inspired!

Tons to see and do and try and LOVE!!!

I can't thank you enough Hannah!!! I love your blog and your fun spirit!!!

Happy CRAFTING ALL!!!!

Hannah here. Thanks Becca for the invitation and for letting us all in on your
awesome blog. Please take care of those beautiful teeth.

It's not easy being green...

2009-08-11T20:46:00.001-07:00

Because in our house green means YUMMY!

We've been cranking out the green smoothies with our new Blendtec (and a lot of other wonderful things). I am in love with my Blendtec almost as much as I am with my husband...seriously.

My basic recipe is a little bit of frozen fruit from Costco with milk, yogurt, ground flax seed and three HUGE handfuls of spinach

Maisy was just a little excited about her first smoothie. Now she doesn't let one drop of goodness escape!

I'm really excited about green smoothies (as anyone who has had a conversation with me in the last three months could testify) because the twins suck them down like they are going out of style! They LOVE them! And I love knowing that they are starting their day with spinach and lots of other good-for-you stuff. Then I don't feel as guilty when I give them chicken nuggets with mac and cheese for lunch ;)!

Anyone else doing this? I'd love to swap recipes.

And the Winners are....

2009-08-06T19:56:00.000-07:00

First of all I want to say thanks to Candace, Dana, Shannon, Cat, Larissa and Kathleen for their support and link love. Many of them took some real time out to learn about me and the pattern and to put some great posts up about the Pod. Thanks so much ladies! If you haven't met these amazing women, take a minute to...you won't be sorry.

OK, now on to the winners!

Wait, one more thing, I have been completely overwhelmed (in a good way) by your responses. Thanks so much for your kind words and enthusiasm. I can't wait to see what all of your creative minds will do with this pattern!

OK, now on to the winners!

Oh oops, one more thing, remember how I said that today everyone who left a comment would receive a special little thank you gift? Well just in case the two names I choose don't happen to be yours, don't despair...I'm going to let you know what your thank you gift is in just a second!

OK now REALLY, on to the winners!

Thanks to Random.org:

The winner of the Pod Swaddler PDF Pattern/Tutorial is:

Andi of Bacon Pecan Pie!!!
She was selected from the friends/followers section.
She said: "I'd make it for a friend's baby. Thanks for the chance!"

And for The Pod Swaddler made by Me:

Dallas Ann from Prentice Family!!!
She was selected from the comments section.

She said: "I'm due on the 15th of this month and this would be perfect!"

Let's give these lucky ladies a
"Hip, Hip...HOORAY!"

Congrats you two! I'm so happy for you!
Please email me: whiletheysleepblog@gmail.com to claim
your prize and give me your digits.

Now for the rest of you.

I think you would agree with Maisy :

One is nice...but TWO? That's Twice as Nice!

So here is what I am giving you as a big THANKS...

If you like the Pod so much that you'd like to hop over to my shop and purchase the pattern, I will give you any one of the other patterns available in my shop....are you ready?

Fo' FREE!

That's right folks, buy one Pod pattern and get any other pattern of your choice, FREE!

This is what you need to do:

First go to my shop and decide which of the other patterns you'd like.
Next click on The Pod Swaddler Pattern and click "add to cart". Then do what Etsy prompts you to do.
When it gives you the option to write a "Note to seller", that's where you type "Pod Friend". After that type which pattern you'd like me to send along free of charge with your Pod pattern.

That simple!

This offer is only good through Monday the 10th so don't delay!

Thanks again for all of the kind words of support and I look forward to getting to know you!

Speaking of getting to know you, I hope you'll come back soon for a visit, there are a few tutorials to look forward to:

Have a great weekend and THANKS AGAIN!

The Pod Swaddler - Giveaway Day!

2009-08-05T00:00:00.000-07:00

SORRY GIVEAWAY IS CLOSED!!!

First of all I'd like to say "Welcome" to all of you that have come here for the first time today. I am really glad you stopped by. I hope you will find some inspiration and comfort here.

Now on to the reason all of you are here:

Today is the day! The Pod Swaddler pattern is finished and ready and IN the shop.

To celebrate I will be giving away TWO prizes!

The first is a PDF Pod pattern complete with a tutorial and printable instructions for use sent to you via email.

The second prize is your very own Pod made by Moi' (that's "me" in french...I know you knew that).

"So what do I need to do to get in on this totally awesome giveaway?" you ask.

Here are the rules:

I will be choosing a winner from two places on this blog:

1. The comments section (just leave me a comment telling me who you'd make this for)
2. The friends section (to become a friend just click on the "follow this blog" or " join this site" section on the side of the blog).

If you are not comfortable becoming friends yet, I totally understand...for heaven's sake we've just met! So don't feel any pressure to do this (although I promise you won't be sorry if you do).

So really if you are both a friend AND a commenter you really have TWO chances to WIN!

GIVEAWAY CLOSES:
THURSDAY AUGUST 6th AT midnight MST
I will post the winners here on Friday Morning the 7th. There will also be a little treat for everyone who enters. So stay tuned to find out what that will be!

Norah says:

And so do I!

P.S. If you post this giveaway on your own blog so all your friends, family, acquaintances, and enemies can see it, and you end up winning, I will throw in an extra pattern from my shop to sweeten the deal.

P.P.S. If you are more of a "I put inspirational blogs in my sidebar section" kind of person like I am, this counts as being a friend/follower of While They Sleep. Just leave me another comment (so two total) letting me know that I am on your side bar. If you do all three (comment, side bar comment, and friend/follower), that gives you even more chances to win!

It's Almost Ready!

2009-07-29T10:04:00.001-07:00

I just got the photos of Norah modeling the Pod Swaddler (that's what I've decided to call it). I'm putting together a little "How-To" sheet today and waiting to hear back from just a few more of the volunteers who are making them. The goal is to have it up in the shop on August 5th! I will be hosting a little giveaway that day to celebrate so stay tuned!

Thanks so much to those that have volunteered to try it out. You have given me great input and helped make some really important changes to the pattern and instructions! Here's some of the photo's for the "How-To"...thanks to Eden Thome's brilliant photography!

Summer Fun

2009-07-23T13:46:00.000-07:00

I am loving these new prints by my ever-so-talented and hilarious brother Cedric. He will have a booth set up at Craft Lake City on August 8th! I'll be there and if you are in the area, hope you will be too! Here are some of my favorites:

Car Seat Cover/Canopy (NOT a TENT!)

2009-07-18T21:11:00.001-07:00

My good friend Beth called me the other day and said:

"You know what you should do for a tutorial?"
"A car seat canopy. But please, call it a canopy, NOT a tent!"

So here is my quick and easy version of "The Car Seat CANOPY".

I was impressed by how easily this made up. The top fabric on mine is a sheet from IKEA. I am in love with Ikea's textiles...I always feel like I've died and gone to heaven when I'm in the fabric or textile part of Ikea (and also the meatball part of Ikea).

The bottom is just a simple white satin sheet from Wally-mart. I kind of wish I had done something other than white for contrast...oh well...you can learn from my mistakes and do something extra cute on yours.

So here's what you'll need:

1 yard of top fabric
1 yard of contrasting fabric for underside
1-2 yards of grosgrain ribbon (you can use fabric for this part...if you want to tie yours in bows, you'll need 2 yards...for just a regular tie, 1 yard. Also, I've seen these with buttons on the top instead of ribbon...cute but time consuming...and I don't have time for button holes at this point in my life...if you do, more power to 'ya.)
fire (from a match or a lighter or a piece of spaghetti)
thread
scissors
iron

One yard is the perfect size for your cover...unless your car seat is smaller than Norah's? Anyway, a yard seemed to be the perfect size and that's what the measurements in this tute are all based on.

Let's get started, shall we? (Remember, you need to click on the pictures to read the instructions...this is more for my Mom than for anyone else...Hi Mom!):

Let me know if I totally confused you. If you make one...will ya tell me? I'd love to see a picture!

Five Minute Skirt - Repurposed Blouse

2009-06-23T22:42:00.000-07:00

OK, this has to be one of my favorite projects so far. In November of last year, I just happened to be at Kohls while they were having a major sale ( gotta love Kohls clearance). There was a 90% off rack with a whole bunch of spring/summer blouses. I found some that I thought were really cute but after trying them on, I knew why they were on that rack...they just fit really weird. But as I looked at them I realized they were lined and also realized they came in an array of colors. So a vision of skirts for the girls came into my mind. They were 2 bucks each for heavens sake! So here's what I did: