Christine's Favorite Things

Happy Birthday Blocks

2012-01-30T09:20:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share my finished "Happy Birthday" blocks. My friend Emy made some of these and I thought they were so much fun, so she got me the supplies to make some too. Aren't they fun?

The "Happy" fits perfectly right on top of the "Birthday"! I chose the paper and paint and I just love the colors.

In our family, we have three birthdays in February, so they will get very well used here soon. These will work perfectly with my birthday banner and balloon wreath I made earlier (click on the link to see their post).

Fabric Scrapbook

2012-01-25T15:19:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday I had fun playing with fabrics and I made a little photo fabric scrapbook. I was inspired by two blogs Nana Company and Dear Lizzy. It was a lot of fun to make using things I had on-hand like ribbons, crochet flowers, buttons, ric-rac, etc.

Picnik is going to be closing soon, so everything right now is free. I was able to use their premium features to play around with my photos. Use them while you can until April.

I love the sepia and the 60's feature.

Of course I had to include Alaina. I sure do miss her, we all do. She would be four years old next month.

Right now I have it on the console in the foyer on display. It's probably a little girly like most things I make, but it is mostly for me anyways.

Projects of 2011

2012-01-10T08:35:00.000-08:00

Some of the projects I did in 2011. I have been mentally working on a list of things to do in 2012, it's a long one too. Wish me luck! I hope you all have a wonderful, productive year!!!

Handmade Christmas Gifts

2011-12-27T21:29:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share a couple of things I made for Christmas gifts this year. First, I sewed a Christmas pillow for a friend. I appliqued the trees, did a little stitching, and added ric rac.

I kept an opening on the back so a pillow form could be used inside. I like to buy my pillow forms at IKEA and cut and sew it down to the size I want.

I couldn't wait to share the next gifts I made, these adorable Raggedy Ann dolls. I bought the patterns from Raggedy Old Annies. I've always have loved her dolls and I've admired them for years, so finally I bought the patterns to make some myself. Aren't they adorable? I thought a few of my little nieces might enjoy them.

I'm keeping the littlest one (above). Well, I couldn't give them all away! She is really little, less than a foot tall. I love her shoes!

The next smallest one. They also have cute little bloomers under their dress that I didn't take a picture of.

These last two are the largest dolls I made. I love their heart lips!

I had so much fun picking out the fabrics for their dresses. These were so much fun to make, I just might have to make more for my Etsy shop.

Merry Belated Christmas

2011-12-27T21:03:00.000-08:00

I hope you had a great Christmas! We enjoyed some of our tradional holiday activities that we do as a family. One thing we like to do is go downtown Portland and visit Santa at the Macy's.

(Spencer wasn't feeling well, so he didn't want his picture taken)

We also did some crafting and holiday baking with cousins.

The kids made snowman ornaments using socks.

The kids decorated sugar cookies.

We also like to go to the Old Spaghetti Factory with the river view and watch the Christmas boat parade. This year we didn't see any boats, but hopefully we will next year.

The Stockings Are Hung

2011-12-12T21:07:00.000-08:00

I finally did it! I made stockings that I'm happy with and so is everyone else in the family. The first stockings I made for us was about 7 years ago, and they were just okay, so I've been wanting to make new ones that are a bit more fun. Last year I saw really cute quilted stockings in Blogland, so I started making some for this Christmas. Well, not everyone in our family liked them, ahem Jason, so I was determined to make some this year that we all mostly liked. (By the way there are still ~~three~~ two quilted stockings left in my Etsy Shop).

Here is the fabric I chose from fabric.com, they are Premier Prints.

Now presenting our new stockings...

Jason's is a bit boring because that's they way he likes it.

I added a ruffle to mine for a little femininity.

Spencer and Tanner wanted heel and toes on their stockings.

Logan loved this print!

And finally Preston's cute dotted stocking.

My amazing sister Caron embroidered all the names for us, thanks Caron. I just love them!!!

Christmas Advent Lollipop Tree

2011-12-06T14:04:00.000-08:00

First, here is my inspiration picture for my recent project, a Lollipop Advent Tree. I really loved this picture and thought it would be fun and cute. This can be moderately easy project if you have a power miter saw and the right size drill bits. It was a little frustrating trying to get everything to fit, but eventually it worked.

I used brighter colors on this one. I stamped the number of days on the ends of the sticks.

Here is another one I made, using a little more traditional Christmas colors.

I used 5" x 5" pinked fabric pieces to give some fun color to the tree. I wish I had bakers twine to tie around the lollipops, but yarn works for now.

Now the kids are even more excited to count the days 'til Christmas!

Pretty Paper Christmas Trees

2011-11-30T10:19:00.000-08:00

Here is an easy fun Chrismas craft tutorial, Pretty Paper Christmas Trees.

What you will need: double-sided paper of your choice. You want the paper double-sided because when you loop the paper you will be able to see inside the loop. You will need straight pins and styrafoam cones. Styrafoam cones can be spendy, I bought the 7" cone from The Dollar Tree and the 9" cone from Hancocks Fabric on sale, just shop around or use coupons.

9” Paper Christmas Tree

You will need to cut strips of paper from coordinating paper, I used a different pattern for each layer, but you can repeat a pattern if you wish. Then you will loop the strip and use two straight pins to attach paper to cone. Pin at the corners. The next layer up should be placed between the two strips in the layer below to hide the pins. You will use about 194 pins.

*You may need to trim the width a little on some strips to fit around better.

1st Four Layers (Starting with the bottom layers):

12 strips, 11 strips, 10 strips, 9 strips of 1” wide x 3” long

5th and 6th Layer:

9 strips, 8 strips of 7/8” wide x 3” long

7th Layer:

9 strips of 3/4” wide x 3” long

8th Layer:

7 strips of 3/4" wide x 2.5” long

9th and 10th Layers:

8 strips, 7 strips of 5/8” wide x 2” long

11th Layer:

7 strips of 1/2” wide x 2” long

Finish:

Make a cone for the top by cutting out a half circle and gluing it to the top. If you want, embellish along the edge of cone.

7” Paper Christmas Tree

*You may need to trim the width a little on some strips to fit around better.

1st Four Layers (Starting with the bottom layers):

12 strips, 11 strips, 10 strips, 9 strips of 3/4” wide x 2.5” long

5th Layer:

10 strips of 5/8” wide x 2.25” long

6th, 7th , 8th, 9th , and 10th Layers:

10 strips, 9 strips, 8 strips, 7 strips, 6 strips of 5/8” wide x 2” long

Finish:

Make a cone for the top by cutting out a half circle and gluing it to the top. If you want, embellish along the edge of cone.

This is a great craft to do with friends! Have Fun!!!

Etsy Christmas Stockings

2011-11-22T15:56:00.000-08:00

Just Listed

in my Etsy Shop

I just finished making a set of 6 Christmas Stockings, which are now in my Etsy shop. Each stocking has it's own design and unique look. I used mostly Michael Miller's Funky Christmas fabric.

Dots

Checkered with Chenille

Argyle

Christmas Animals

Pinwheel

Zig Zag

All the backs have green ticking fabric. I hope they will find a good home!

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Surprise Disney Vacation

2011-11-15T12:04:00.000-08:00

Our kids woke up to the smell of pancakes. When it was time to eat they saw the Mickey Mouse pancakes, and one boy asked, "Are we going to Disneyland?". Yes we are, we leave today! We had our things packed up and ready to go. We drove! A long drive, but we were able to see friends and family and play a little in California.

Off we go! Gotta love Redbox. Pick-up the movies almost anywhere and drop them off just about anywhere too. It sure was nice having the DVD player and headphones. During that time Jason and I had peace and quiet.

It seemed unreal to the kids that we were actually at Disneyland. Even for me, I was 16 years old the last time I was there. It was Jason's first time.

Here we are in line for our first ride, Star Tours, one of our favorite rides. We played at Disneyland for two days and did this ride 3 times. We didn't have to wait usually more than 15 minutes in line for most of the rides because we went during the slower time at Disneyland. But a downside to that was a couple rides weren't operating, like Pirates of the Carribean.

Another favorite was Splash Mountain! In the picture above, my hand is right over the face of another kid that got stuck with our family, the picture worked out for us.

The weather was PERFECT, sunny and in the 70's.

California Adventure was not a favorite of ours, mostly because there was a lot of construction going on, so we spent the majority of the time at Disneyland.

Mark Twain Steamboat ride.

I can't believe I went on this ride. It was the first and last time, Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. It was a little freaky. Tanner and Logan were the bravest!

I'll miss you Disneyland, if I have it my way we'll be back again soon.

We played at the beach. We are from Washington so even though it wasn't very warm, it was what you would expect here in the summertime.

Santa Monica, we ate at Bubba Gump.

We went through the Redwood Forest after visiting family in Northern California and visited Paul Bunyan on the way home.

We made some good memories!

Good times...good times!

Farmer's Wife Blocks

2011-11-03T09:06:00.000-07:00

I have joined in with most of the quilters working on the Farmer's Wife Sampler Quilt. Although, I have many projects going on at once so I haven't gotten as far as I want. To get started I checked out the book from my local library, but someone else must of had the same idea because I wasn't able to renew it this last time. I should just buy the book. Anyways, this is what I have so far. I can't say that I love my blocks, but I am just using the scraps I have on hand, which I guess makes it more random, maybe even more farmer like. Check out these Farmer's Wife Blocks that I LOVE at Simplify and a little sweetness.

Laundry Room Makeover

2011-10-19T11:44:00.000-07:00

I finally finished my laundry room! Here is the before picture. There were no cabinets, just a taupe wall color, plus all the previous shelving hardware still in the wall. It wasn't a real pleasant looking room, especially since laundry isn't my favorite chore, it really needed some attention. I was first thinking of doing an apple green color on the walls, but decided to go with more of a fresh feeling color and a little Cath Kidston look.

It's hard to see in the picture, but I painted the walls and ceiling Spring Mint by Benjamin Moore. It is a light blue-green, a clean, refreshing color. I bought the STAT cabinets from IKEA, I used a open shelving unit in the middle. Then I starched fabric to the walls and on the back of the open shelving. Yes, that is fabric on the wall, not wallpaper. I think it's a great way to get the wallpaper look without the commitment. All I did is mixed cornstarch with water, brushed it onto the wall then applied the fabric, then brushed more starch on top. Now when I'm ready for a change all I have to do is peel it off and wash the wall, plus I will still be able to use the fabric.

The fabric I used is called Flower Sugar White Medium Floral by Lecien, I bought it at the Quilted Castle.

I added pink glass knobs to the doors. I had these on hand from a previous project, so it worked out perfectly.

Now I have laundry to do, I'm so excited (not really), but at least I like my laundry room now!

Bad Luck Pants

2011-09-22T09:47:00.000-07:00

My running pants are now officially unlucky. First, last Friday I was out on my morning run when I turned the corner and a man was walking his two little yappy dogs. We all kind of startled each other and the dogs were going crazy, so I went for the street to go around them when one of his dogs bit me in the leg, the leash was too long. You can see the hole in my pants (above) and the bite (below). The man felt awful and used a few swear words, I'm sure he was thinking, "I'm going to get sued". But I told him I would be okay and kept running.

Then Tuesday morning I was getting ready for my morning run, pulled my pants out of the dryer and thought, "I can still wear these, the hole isn't very big." I met my friend on the corner and we started to run. We ran for only one block and started to cross the first street when the next thing I knew I was on the ground. I had stepped off the curb wrong, twisted my ankle and landed on the other knee and my hand to catch myself. So now I have a swollen ankle, cut up knee, and a dog bite. These pants are just bad luck!!! I'm suppose to run a 10k next Saturday. Now if my ankle is better by then, I'll be out of shape. I hope I will be able to run again soon, but if not, I guess I'll just have to sign up for another race.

Almost Everything

2011-09-14T13:03:00.000-07:00

I hope you all had a wonderful summer now that it's almost over. When the sun finally decided to warm us up in July, I started to have fun, which is why I haven't been posting on my poor neglected blog. Here are some of the things we did this summer.

We played in the water.

We actually got some tans.

We ate watermelon (actually I didn't, not a fan).

We had a picnic at the Portland Rose Garden, absolutely beautiful.

I couldn't stop taking pictures of the roses.

I learned how to crochet flowers (can you tell I LOVE flowers).

Checked out this book from my local library to help me along.

My kids started school. Yes, ALL my kids. Never thought this day would come.

Preston is in Kindergarten half day, so it's a good way for both of us to get used to him being gone.

I had the most perfect birthday! I went to the beach with my amazing husband and our wonderful four boys. The weather was beautiful.

There even was a car show, which was fun to see.

So that is our summer in a nutshell! I really enjoyed it this year, I'm not ready for cooler weather, but I have to admit with school in session, my house stays cleaner. Time to get ready for Fall now.

New Wave Quilt Top

2011-07-12T08:58:00.000-07:00

My most recent project I've been working on is a New Wave Quilt. You can find the free pattern at Oh Fransson!. I've had this Meadowsweet fabric for a while and it's my current favorite fabric, which makes it hard for me to cut into. But when I saw this pattern, I knew it was the one. I love how it displays each of the fabrics so well. Oh, and notice my Hydrangea plant (not the weed) that has finally found a home after being in a pot for over three years (thanks Tawyna for my favorite plant).

Here are my boys growing up. Spencer just turned 12, I can hardly believe it. We feel blessed that he is here with us. When I was pregnant, we didn't know if he would even live. After many heart surgeries and other procedures, he is a happy and healthy young man.

I love ALL my boys!!! Aren't they handsome?!!

I love this picture by Hyacinth Quilts of her New Wave Quilt.

Playhouse

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

We told our kids that the next house we move into we would build a tree fort for them. Here we are in our new home and there really wasn't a good tree to build a tree house. So this is what we came up with and it has worked out really great.

This is what it looked like before. We have a long sloped area in our backyard that is really unusable. A playhouse tucked away off to the side was the perfect place to put one.

Here are some pictures of the building process:

It's a nice size, 8' x 8', and ceiling peak over 8' high. I wanted it big enough for them to sleep in, even when they're teenagers.

So there it is! We have more to do like put on trim, windows, and paint it. We also need to dig out some steps up to it, so it's easier to get to. Now we can kick the kids out of the house this summer and into their new house.

We picked up these windows at a recycled building center for only $12 for the three windows. I'll post more pictures when it is completely finished, hopefully it won't be too long before that happens. As you saw from the rest of the slope, we have a lot more work ahead of us.

Jelly Rolls and Layer Cakes

2011-07-01T19:46:00.000-07:00

There's new delicious fabric in my shop! You'll find Jelly Rolls and Layer Cakes in a few of the lastest collections. Check out Fabrically Delicious!!!

Circa 1934 by Cosmo Cricket

Ruby by Bonnie & Camille

Strawberry Fields by Fig Tree & Co.

A Sweet Apron

2011-06-30T08:38:00.000-07:00

I made four aprons for some graduating seniors girls from church. Since this would probably be the first apron they'd own, I wanted it to be cute enough they would want to wear it. I used Meadowsweet fabric by Sandi Henderson and added a ruffle and a gathered pocket. I used some binding to trim the pocket. I came up with my own pattern to get just what I wanted. I'm happy with how they turned out.

I had to make the pocket puff out a little so a hand could fit into it. I think it gives it extra charm.

Now if I could only teach the boys in the house (including hubby who took this one) how to take a picture without cutting off a head or something else.

By the way we have this shrub/tree plant that has these pretty flowers, does anyone know what the plant is called?

Kid's Artwork

2011-06-27T22:09:00.000-07:00

(Click on Photos to Enlarge)

My children helped me fill in the new frames in the living room. We did some watercolor paintings together and they did wonderful artwork.

I've had my eye on a couple Etsy artist, who paint trees with dots, check them out Once Upon a Paper and Jellybeans. I knew I could give it a try myself. I love the colors. I know I'm a copycat, but it was fun to do and more personal because I did it.

I wanted to redo the the piano bench with my new updated living room, so I asked my boys what fabric they wanted. They chose the zebra and I told them, "I don't think so". But after a while, I actually kind of liked it. I figured sitting on the zebra might encourage more piano practice (notice the "tail" on the right). I think it actually might be working.

Here is a shot of everything together. I love it, it's all so fun!!!

Pillows and Frames

2011-06-16T16:03:00.000-07:00

The picture frames are hung and the pillows are sewn. Now I need to fill the frames with the kid's artwork and such. I bought the oval frames at secondhand stores for the kids' silhouettes, I think they turned out cute. The other frames I bought at IKEA, Ross, and one that I had on hand. At first I didn't know if I should do the all the frames black, or white, but then I saw collages with different types and I think that worked out best for me.

Using the paper templates for the frames made organizing and hanging up the frames a breeze. I'm happy with the arrangement.

For the pillows I ended up using an invisible zipper. The first one I used a pocket method, but since a few of the pillows have different fabrics on the back, I wanted to be able to flip them if I wanted. I stumbled across a pile of free decorators fabric samples last fall that I used for most of the pillows, you can't beat free. I bought the pillow inserts at IKEA, which were inexpensive . The pillow inserts were 20", but I wanted a smaller size, so I sewed the inserts smaller making the pillow more firm and to the size I wanted. It actually worked out perfectly.

Do a Little Dance

2011-06-14T11:29:00.000-07:00

There are some advantages of being the youngest of four boys. You learn how to be COOL early on, and THINK you are cool too.

And here are the boys who have taught Preston how to "shake your groove thing" at a Mariner's game.

Decorating My Living Room

2011-06-13T15:18:00.000-07:00

Now that I have a neutral canvas to work with, it's time to bring color in. I cut out paper the size of my frames and placed them on the wall in a way that I like. My assistant Preston took the photo for me while I held up the shelf, so sorry for the backside shot. Anyways, this method worked great for hanging up the picture frames.

Here are some of the fabrics I'm using for the pillows. I love the bright cheery colors. Right now I just love adding color into my decor.

Here are a couple pictures I got my inspiration from:

House to Home

cobistyle

Re-upholstered Settee/Sofa

2011-06-11T13:22:00.000-07:00

Out with the old, in with the new.

Remember this lovely sofa or settee I purchased on Craigslist last fall for $50? Well after taking out a zillion staples, layer by layer, then stapling on new fabric, layer by layer (and yes, there was sweat and blood involved)...I'm Finally Finished!!!

Here is our new Beautiful sofa! I used Crypton fabric, which is stain resistant and perfect for kids, but I'm not going to tell them that. The color is called Bella Toast, a great neutral color so I can add some colorful throw pillows and never get tired of the color.

There were definitely some parts that were more difficult than others. I had to do one of the curved arm pieces a few times, because the nails kept poking through.

I sewed the cushion twice. The first time the corners didn't align just right. It took me all day to undo all the stitching, upholstery thread is tough. Luckily, it looked right the second time because I don't know if I would of had the patience to do it a third time.

Since this was my first upholstery job, I learned a lot. One thing that I've read, but would do differently is when you use the old fabric as a pattern for cutting out the new fabric, cut it a little bigger. The reason is after the fabric is stapled on, some parts are trimmed up making it smaller, and if you don't have it perfectly positioned right it may not fit just right.

I've asked myself, "Would you do it again?", Yes, but not anytime soon. I now have a custom sofa that I just love for less than $200. I think it was worth it!

A Birthday Balloon Wreath

2011-05-19T10:37:00.000-07:00

I went to a Girl's Craft Night and this is what we made. It was fun and easy to make, a great project. I used a 12" straw wreath (Michaels) and I believe 9" balloons (Wal-Mart in the party section), about 230 total. We used floral pins to attach the balloons and string to the wreath. I can't wait to use it, but I'll have to wait until July for our next birthday.

Retro Kitchen Valance

2011-04-29T11:39:00.000-07:00

I made some new curtains for my kitchen window. I've had this inspiration picture (above) for a while now from Sew 4 Home, and I finally started looking for the same fabric. The fabric is dwindling out there, but I found just the right amount for what I needed at The Quilted Castle.

My kitchen window BEFORE.

AFTER.

I love the retro colors with the red. It goes perfectly with my favorite bowl.

I also needed a new tablecloth for our 'new to us' Craigslist table. Since it's square it's hard to find a square tablecloth, they're either rectangle or round. Our table is 54" square, so I bought an aqua, 60" x 84" tablecloth from Target and cut and hemmed the longer end. Tah-dah, more retro fun colors for my kitchen!

Recycled Jeans

2011-04-11T18:59:00.000-07:00

Our family goes through A LOT of jeans. I have a hard time just throwing them away, so I've been stashing them for years planning to make a quilt someday. I thought it was about time to use some and I needed a project to work on anyways. So this is what I came up with. I used 12 fat quarters from my stash, Look and Learn by American Jane.

My kids feel left out because we don't keep most of the quilts I make. But I wanted to keep this one so I tried to use the least girly fabric I had. My husband thinks it's still girly because of the floral fabrics, but I like the oranges and blues...close enough.

I also needed a new purse for Spring. I didn't use a pattern, but I knew what I wanted it to look like, so it's not perfect, but I like it.

A Girl's Only Night

2011-03-26T17:23:00.000-07:00

I had a Girl's Only Night! My husband and boys had a camp out planned for just the boys, so I planned a slumber party. My Mom, and sisters Candice and Caron came with their three daughters. We had good food, danced, and made Easter crafts. Candice's two daughters are 8 and 7 and they've inherited our craft bug. We had a great time. Here are photos of our creations. I don't usually do paper crafts, so it was fun to try something new.

Flower Petal Easter Egg

2011-03-21T12:52:00.000-07:00

I found the cutest Easter decorations at a shop at the beach. Bunnies, carrots, and Easter eggs covered in hydrangea paper petals and anyone who knows me, knows I LOVE hydrangeas. So I bought a bunny and carrot, but thought I would attempt to make the egg myself. Here is my version:

First, I bought a flower petal puncher, but I really wanted a hydrangea petal puncher, but the two shops I went to didn't have one. Of course after I made this I found one at Michaels, so until I attempt this again, for now this is my first version.

What you need and instructions:

Plastic egg (foam eggs, in my opinion are too expensive)

Ribbon (if desire to hang, knot and pull through existing hole on top of egg)

Modge Podge (first glue egg closed, and cover the egg with white paper to hide color)

Two coordinating paper, colors of your choice

Flower petal puncher (after petals are punched out, fold petals up)

Quick-Drying Glue (glue petals as close together as possible onto egg)

Fabric Paint in Bottle (dot the centers of flowers)

Paint or ink pad, slightly darken petal tips in desired color (or do this before gluing on)

Spray Adhesive (spray lightly before glittering)

Glitter

Happy Easter Egg Making!

Mother Goose Night

2011-03-18T15:05:00.000-07:00

First, I want to highlight my 1st grader, Logan. He is such a great artist, as are my other boys. His picture was selected to be in an Art Show (the teddy bear). Several pieces of art were chosen from each school to be in it and his picture was chosen. Great job Logan!!!

Second, I was able to do a little art work myself. Our church put on a night for the women, with dinner and a Mother Goose inspired skit. (If you are LDS and are interested in the skit email me, I can get you a copy, it's so cute, about visiting teaching). We had four houses set up for the skit and I did the backgrounds. I had so much fun drawing and painting. It's hard to see details from the photos, but it turned out pretty good (click on photo for close-up). Everyone did such a wonderful job participating in the skit, decorating, and the food, it was a great night!

The Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe, had so many children she didn't know what to do.

The Three Little Pigs, mom's house. She was a riot!

Peter, Peter Pumpkin Eater had a wife and couldn't keep her, so he put her in a pumpkin shell and there he kept her very well.

Old Mother hubbard went to the cupboard...

The rest of the area was decorated so cute with Mother Goose posters, and each table had a Mother Goose themed centerpiece.

The Queen of Hearts

Mary Had a Little Lamb

Hickory Dickory Dock

Hush-a-by Baby

Delicious Fabrics

2011-03-03T16:22:00.000-08:00

More fabrics coming soon to my shop, Fabrically Delicious. Two Jelly Rolls are on there way now, Punctuation by American Jane, so cute. Second one, Orgins by Basic Grey, yellows, greens, and black.

Then coming in Spring, Strawberry Fields by Fig Tree & Co. This really is delicious fabric, who can resist strawberries? I will have Layer Cakes and Jelly Rolls in this fabric.

Finally, Hullabaloo by Urban Chiks. What fun designs and colors, I just love it. I will also have Layer Cakes and Jelly Rolls in Hullabaloo.

A "Sweet" Quilt

2011-02-23T09:34:00.000-08:00

SOLD

I finally finished the third quilt on my to do list. Here it is, made using a Layer Cake from the Sweet Collection by Urban Chiks. All three quilts are now in my Etsy Shop. I will donate 10% of the profits to the Children's Heart Foundation.

I love all the fun colors, perfect for a sweet girl.

Bliss Pinwheel Baby Quilt

2011-02-21T16:53:00.000-08:00

I love this Pinwheel Quilt that I finished. I used a Moda Bake Shop pattern that uses a Charm Pack. I used the adorable Bliss fabric and flannel dotted fabric for the backing and binding, making it extra cozy.

There are prairie points that frame the pinwheels giving the quilt extra texture. I have entered this quilt into the Moda Bake Shop March Contest, check out all the great Charm Pack projects.

I will be selling this quilt in my Etsy Shop soon.

Wonderland Quilt

2011-02-17T16:18:00.000-08:00

I finally finished it! Yes, it's been 1 1/2 years since I made the quilt top. This quilt is a baby blanket size, which could be used as a wall hanging too. I used the pattern Pint-Sized by Camille Roskelley which you can find in my shop. I'm pleased with how it turned out. I have two more quilts almost done that I will be posting soon also.

A couple close-up pictures of the free-motion quilting and binding.

I will be putting this quilt and a couple others in my Etsy shop soon.

Napkin Holder

2011-02-04T16:04:00.000-08:00

I've been meaning to make a napkin holder for quite a while now. Heather Bailey has an adorable cupcake tray that inspired me to finally make my own version. I made mine much bigger and used batting inside and quilted it. I wanted to be able to wash it when needed, so there isn't any cardboard inside. This was the first time I've ever used piping so I can see the stitching, but now I know how to make it better next time. I'm happy that I now have someplace to put my napkins.

Love Month Is Here

2011-02-02T21:23:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, Preston and I decorated the house with hearts for "Love Month". We rolled strips of paper, curling the ends, then I taped them together and strung them up from the ceiling on fishing line.

Then we taped up hearts to the kitchen cabinets. The boys and I made them years ago, sewing the paper hearts together. The idea came from a magazine either Better Homes and Garden or Country Living, I'm guessing.

I also made some roses with red felt and glued them to a styrofoam ball. I just wish I had painted the styrofoam first, you can see the white in the cracks.

I finally dressed up my newly painted hutch. I used some of my Mary Engelbreit collection and some plates that I had bought secondhand for a great deal. I will be changing it out when I find just the right pieces, but for now it works for me.

I love buntings so I had to make a miniature pedant bunting with some of my favorite fabric scraps, and I just love it.

Painted White Hutch

2011-01-24T09:54:00.000-08:00

This beautiful Pottery Barn secretary's desk was on my Christmas Wish List, but I know better than to think I would get the real thing, so I've been searching Craigslist for something that could be just as useful and beautiful. I have this great wall space in my dining/kitchen area that needed something we could set our computer on, yet I also wanted it to be decorative because of where it's at.

So this is what I found, and I knew it was "the one":

Bottom of hutch

Top of hutch

The hutch was $65 on Craigslist and was in great condition, except the counter top had some bubbling and needed to be replaced. The original price sticker was still on it, $699.99, I love that part! My wonderful husband helped me with this project, which was so nice. We unscrewed the existing top and replaced it with a new slab of wood. Then I primed the whole thing, twice, two coats of oil based primer, sanding between coats. I painted one coat of oil based enamel paint, and then touched it up after it was dry. It actually took longer to paint than I thought it would. I'm thinking when I'm ready to paint my kitchen cabinets, it may be a bigger project than I thought, but it will still be worth it. Here is the finished project:

I love it! I now have somewhere to keep the laptop, instead of roaming around the house with it wondering where to set it down. I'm excited to decorate the rest of the hutch now!

LOVE MONTH

2011-01-18T14:30:00.000-08:00

What is "LOVE MONTH" ?

For those of you interested in giving your love life a lift, I suggest Love Month. January is a time to make a few goals and renew yourself to be a better you. February is a time to renew your marriage. This will be my friend Emy's fourth year doing love month, and each year she tries to get as many friends and family to do it with her because she wants you to experience some of the joys that have come from LOVE MONTH. This will be my first year to do LOVE MONTH and I'm excited, mostly because I know Jason is going to LOVE it, what spouse wouldn't?

LOVE MONTH- Pick something small you can do for your spouse every day for the month of February.

Here are some suggestions from Emy for LOVE MONTH:

For the first day of February and the first day of Love Month, I like to decorate the house (or maybe just one room) with paper hearts while Trevor is at work. This is something easy to do and my kids have a great time sticking paper hearts all over. Trevor can't help but smile when he comes home. I leave a little pink note of the counter with a "Day One" written on the front and inside I write a short love message.

I love Love Month. I know I'm the one doing all these little things for Trevor, but he really appreciates all the little things. We get a long better and feel more love for each other for the entire year. It is well worth the investment and is so much fun to do. I promise you won't be disappointed.

Stephanie helped me put the following list together of easy Love Month ideas. If you plan a little ahead of time and write down your ideas on a Calendar it makes the month run smoothly. I don't feel like I'm scrambling to do something or think of something last minute.

Ways to say I love you:

1. With glow in the dark stars shape a heart or write ‘I love you’ above your bed.
2. Write on his side of the driveway with sidewalk chalk, ‘I love you’.
3. On a freezing night write I love you on his car window with whipping cream.
4. Make a coupon book.
5. Order a pepperoni pizza with the pepperoni in the shape of a heart.
6. Personalize his screen saver.
7. Neck Massage
8. Scalp Massage
9. Hand Massage
10. Foot Massage
11. Back Massage
12. Leg Massage
13. Family Home Evening on why we love Dad and why he is important to our family
14. Put his towel in the dryer for a few minutes and have in for him when he gets out of the shower.
15. Write a note on the mirror with lipstick.
16. Write him a note on his lap top
17. Put his favorite snack on his pillow or in his lunch (Pepper Jack Cheese)
18. Dice game (you can get dice with Valentine things written on them at your local Fred Myer)
19. Candle light dinner, spread out rose petals
20. Play his favorite game with him
21. Wash his car
22. Display old dating photo
23. candy bar gram/poster
24. Play his old high school music
25. Play Strip Poker (Wear lots of accessories)
26. Go for a walk and hold his hand
27. Make-out in the car
28. Man Night with his friends
29. Watch his favorite movie with him
30. Email a love note
31. Iron his favorite shirt
32. Heart Attack (Put hearts all over the house or his room)
33. Write him your top 10 or 100 reasons you love him (Frame it)
34. Dance with him in the kitchen
35. Have a nighty-night
36. Be intimate
37. Cuddle on the couch
38. Share a milkshake
39. Make his favorite meal (The way to a man’s heart)
40. Write a love note and send it to him in the mail at work
41. Make a giant heart cookie, or a batch of his favorite cookie
42. Make cupcakes in Valentine cup cake wrappers
43. Have his favorite drink cold in the fridge when he comes home from work
44. Make heart shaped pancakes for breakfast
45. Breakfast in bed
46. small gifts (golf balls, driving range gift cards, tee's) Can you tell what Trevor likes:)
47. Surprise date (Pick him up from work unexpectedly and take him to his favorite restaurant)
48. Do one of his chores
49. Make up a nice bath for him (join him if you like)
50. Put a love note in his lunch

I hope you will do LOVE MONTH too! Remember not to expect anything in return, just give of your LOVE!!!

Christmas Candles

2010-12-09T15:35:00.001-08:00

I have REALLY wanted red and white striped candles for years, but I haven't found any, except online. So I just finally realized I could just make them myself. I bought two white candles and used red craft paint to paint the stripes on. So easy and fast! I think I will do some with polka dots, and some green ones too. Yahoo, I finally have some now.

Something else I wanted to share. I made eight of these candle blocks for a church project, where we made gift baskets for some members. I think they turned out cute. Here is where we found the idea.

Pom-Poms

2010-12-06T15:37:00.001-08:00

We have our Christmas tree up and the decorations are around the house. Something new I've added this year to our many homemade decorations are these cute pom-poms. I hung them up on the banister next to the garland. I just used fishing line to hang them with and taped them to the banister. Bright and fun!

Pom-poms are easy to make using yarn, and you can find a great tutorial here.

Christmas List 2010

2010-11-29T09:25:00.001-08:00

Last year I made a Christmas List on my blog and I got everything on it this last year! Amazing how that worked out (I didn't get a white kitchen, but that's an easy fix with paint). So I thought maybe if I made a new Christmas list, eventually I will get everything on my new list,

so here it is:

Camille Roskelley's Book...

Sandi Henderson's Book...

Pottery Barn's Graham Secretary Desk, or one similar to it...

New Bedroom Furniture (I'm thinking black).

My husband and I don't usually buy each other Christmas gifts, but instead we spread it out throughout the year, so we'll see. I hope you get what you want on your list too!

Unfinished Business

2010-11-23T16:47:00.000-08:00

I'm finally getting started on some unfinished projects. I've had these projects partially finished laying around and I just haven't finished them. I want to get started on some new things, but I felt like I'd better get these done first. I guess since I don't have a deadline, I'm taking my sweet time. I did get the Sweet quilt above stippled this week and the Darla quilt below, I finally sewed the blocks together. I plan on either selling these projects or donating them to Doernbecher's Children Hospital.

Happy Sewing!!!

Christmas Stocking Bunting

2010-11-19T08:51:00.000-08:00

I've made a couple more things for the bazaar that is this weekend. First, a stocking bunting using this adorable Christmas fabric called 12 days of Christmas by Kate Spain. This was a last minute project so I wanted it to be quick and simple, but you can actually put something in the stockings if you wanted. These would be cute as an advent calendar too, but I wasn't willing to make 24 of them.

Last year I had made Santa hats from fun polka-dot, striped, or swirly fabrics, but this year I used some gorgeous velvet fabric I had purchased last year. I needed to change things up a bit.

Now go and check out some bazaars in your area this year!

Fabric Christmas Trees

2010-11-16T11:39:00.000-08:00

I bought several wooden candlesticks last year to use somehow, but never got to them. So this year I wanted to use them and this is what I came up with, fabric Christmas trees. Bazaars are fun, but it's a guessing game as to what the shoppers are going to like that year, so I made different style trees. Hopefully someone will find their style. What style is yours?

Rag Trees with a White Stand or Antiqued White?

Rag Tree with a Black Stand?

Red and White Tree with a Pleated Skirt?

or Funky Patchwork Trees with Pom-Poms?

Simple Placemats and Coasters

2010-11-12T13:15:00.000-08:00

I'm still working here and there on a few things for Connie's bazaar next weekend. If you're in the area, this is a wonderful bazaar and Connie's booth is always packed with shoppers because she is so talented and makes the greatest things. This year I'm trying not to buy any supplies, but use what I already have. If you've been in a bazaar before, you know that if you put too much time and money into your crafts, you won't recover your costs or time. So like these placemats, I kept them simple. I used two coordinating fat quarters to make a set, plus the backing fabric.

A few more, I made 12 total, I'm going to sell them in sets of two.

Then, I couldn't waste the scraps, so I made some coasters. As I was making these, I thought coasters would be a great Christmas gift for a school teacher. I have the perfect scraps to use too.

I have something else I'm working on that I will be sharing soon. I may need to go to the store and buy a few supplies to finish them up though...that's okay, they'll be worth it!

My Living Room

2010-11-04T11:19:00.000-07:00

Please come into our front room, the living room. But keep in mind it is a work in progress. I'll try to show you our house room by room as I get things a little more organized.

When you first come in this is what you see (above). I love the openness of the room: high ceilings, open staircase, and windows to let light in.

A view from the staircase.

The foyer area.

I love this console I bought a few years ago at a garage sale for $40. I finally found some baskets at TJ Maxx that fit perfectly.

I just love Craigslist! I didn't have any formal living room furniture, so I started to shop Craigslist. I bought these wingback chairs on Craigslist for $100, for the pair. They are in great condition and I'm actually really liking the blue upholstery.

Another Craigslist find, $50. So my new-to-me formal living room furniture cost me a total of $150, not too bad. Okay, now on this settee I'm not fond of the floral fabric, but that will be changing soon. I'm going to try to reupholster it myself. This will be my first upholstery project, so wish me luck. I brought home four fabric samples from JoAnn's. I'm going to go with a light neutral color so I can brighten it up with fun pillows.

This is the upholstery I will be using, it's called Crypton. It's not cheap, but it's 50% off at JoAnn's and I have a 20% off coupon for the total cost. It's perfect for families since it is extremely durable, stain resistant, etc. I've read where people have been able to easily wash off dirt, chocolate, ketchup, and more. It's also soft and looks great.

So there it is, our living room. After I get the settee finished, I can finish decorating and show you more pictures. Thanks for coming by!

My Quilt for Quilt Festival

2010-11-01T12:53:00.000-07:00

I'm joining the Quilt Festival Fall 2010 over at Amy's Creative Side.

I'm entering the quilt I finished last spring, for my niece Aria. It's one of my favorite quilts because it's really my first real quilt I had made. I did a lot of hand stitching on it, so it took a lot of work and I loved how it turned out. I experimented with doing hand stitching, machine stitching, and machine stitching on the binding, which I found to be quite a bit easier. On this quilt I used Moda's Layer Cake fabric Sultry by Basic Grey and I love the colors.

I hand stitched every other square with four hearts.

Reversible Apron

2010-10-27T13:07:00.000-07:00

It's that time of the year...bazaar season. I really thought I wouldn't do anything this year, but after I got my craft room organized, I got the bug. So here is an apron I whipped up, it's reversible. You can wear it front ways or back ways, or back ways or front ways, there is no front or back. You can tie the bow in back or the front. There you go! I hope someone will like it at Connie's bazaar, if not here is a peek at my sisters' Christmas gift.

(Photography above by my 4 yr. old, thanks Preston)

Here are some more, fronts and backs. I used Mary Engelbreit's The Caroler fabric.

If you want one for yourself or would like to make some for Christmas gifts, I'm working on putting together a tutorial. Think of all the cute fabrics out there you could use!

Tutorial Coming Soon...

Finally.......Home!!!

2010-10-13T15:54:00.001-07:00

We are finally in our new home, or at least new to us. We bought a short sale house that was not a short wait, but worth it in the end. This house was smaller than what we were looking for, but had many things we liked, especially location, location, location. But now that we have moved in, I just LOVE it, it's a great layout and feels like the perfect size after all.

We still have boxes to unpack and some organizing to do, but here is a little glimpse of some of my favorite things about this house. First, a little front porch to display my flowers and keep an eye on the kids.

An apple tree, with "the best apples ever", said the previous owners. Apple pies, apple sauce, yum, yum yum!!!

Windows and Light! I love a lot of natural light and this house feels bright, which was very important to me, especially here in the Pacific NW.

A kitchen with cabinets galore, a pantry, and an island. I'm loving it, but I see white cabinets in the future.

A nice white mantle around the gas fireplace.

A room to sew and craft in. I'm not finished yet but I did put up IKEA wall shelves.

An upstairs laundry room. My least favorite chore is laundry, but so far an upstairs laundry room seems to make this never ending chore easier.

Okay, now the real reason we bought this house. The master bathroom has it's own toilet room with a fan and a window that opens...double bonus!!!

New Fabric in My Shop

2010-09-16T07:47:00.000-07:00

I'm sooooo excited, look what's new in my fabric shop, Fabrically Delicious. Here is a peek at some of the new lines of fabric in the shop. You have to admit these are beautiful, fun, and delicious fabrics. Go check them out!!! Also, be sure to check out the fabric on sale too.

Bliss by Bonnie and Camille

Dream On by Urban Chiks

Fandango by Kate Spain

It's a Hoot by MoMo

Easy Car Cozy Tutorial

2010-08-05T08:09:00.001-07:00

These are a great gift idea for a little boy who loves playing with cars. Tuck it in your purse and when the little guy is bored waiting for a doctor appointment or whatever pull out this handy car holder with a built-in road. They are easy to make, so I will try my best to give good directions on how to make one.

You will need: 2 black felt sheets 9" x 12", small piece of black felt (for wheel), small piece of white felt (for window), color of your choice felt (for car), yellow grosgrain ribbon, button (for wheel), black and yellow thread.

1. Cut your felt: Cut both black felt lengthwise 3" from top. You will have (2) 3" x 12" pieces and (2) 6" x 12" pieces. Cut ribbon: (2) 12 1/2 ", and (1) 13 1/2 ".

2. Sew your 12 1/2 " ribbon onto the edge of one of your 3" pieces lengthwise (see picture). Sew right down the middle of ribbon. Repeat underneath with a small gap between the top ribbon.

3. Sew 13 1/2" ribbon onto a 6" felt piece, just above 3", sew down the middle of ribbon about halfway down the felt. Loop the ribbon and sew (for hooking on the button to close cozy)

4. Sew your car holder pockets, by putting the two ribbon piece onto the 6" felt piece WITHOUT the ribbon. Divide into four pockets. Use a heavy duty stitching, so it's sturdy for the rough little guy.
5. Take the 6" felt piece with the ribbon: sew on your car, window, wheel (overlap onto ribbon), and sew on the button. Find a car pattern to trace for your car or freehand one.

6. Sandwich your pieces together: Right sides facing in, sew the car pocket, 3" felt flap piece in the middle, and car piece with ribbon (see above picture). Sew just along the top attaching the flap piece.

7. Sew just above seam, on outside. Now sew around all four sides with about a 1/8" seam. Now use pinking shears and trim the edges.

8. Vrrrrrrrooooooooooooooooooooooooommm!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Silver Falls

2010-07-31T10:56:00.000-07:00

This summer we are doing staycations, instead of doing one big vacation. Last weekend we went to Silver Falls near Silverton, Oregon. It was a hot, but beautiful day. I loved the fields of flowers on the way there. The last time I went to Silver Falls, I was a teenager, this time I was there with my hubby and four boys. Jason's brother Matt and his wife Heidi came with their kids, plus a couple of their nieces. We kept the hike short, just down to the falls and back up. The kids had fun climbing on the rocks under the falls with the little caves. After our climb back up the kids cooled of in the swimming hole. Afterwards, we all went out to pizza together. It was a fun day!

Mini Square Runners

2010-07-08T11:52:00.000-07:00

I made two mini square table runners using one charm pack, Mary Engelbreit's Basket of Flowers. I found an inspiration picture then did my own thing. They each measure about 15" square.

You can see the design better on the back. I just zig-zag stitched on the binding to match the other zig-zag stitching.

Four year olds are so cute. Preston does all kinds of funny things like this. Two different shoes on, playing outside in his underwear, a toy he's using as his weapon stuffed in his undies, playing under Grandma and Grandpa's camper. He was wearing that stocking cap earlier too, even though it's 90 degree weather.

Last weekend we went to the Portland Zoo. We had a great time, we started off with a picnic.

Giraffes are always my favorite.

King's Hawaiian Rolls (Copycat)

2010-06-25T15:52:00.000-07:00

Last month my sister Caron threw a surprise party for her hubby Brian. She did a Hawaiian themed party and she did an amazing job. The food was delicious, fun games, great decorations, and no kids. Anyways, I told some people that I would post the recipe I used to make homemade King's Hawaiian Rolls, sorry I'm just now doing it. They taste so much like the real thing, people didn't know they were homemade. They are in the picture in the back. I made 108 rolls, which was three batches. So here is the recipe, if I forgot anything let me know.

King's Hawaiian Rolls (Copycat)

1 pkg. yellow cake mix

2 pkg. yeast or 4 1/2 tsp.

1 1/4 cup pineapple juice, warmed (110 degrees)

1 1/4 cup warm water (110 degrees)

1/2 tsp. salt

5 cups flour

First, in a large bowl combine pineapple juice and water, making sure it's very warm, but not hot. Add the yeast and stir until it's dissolved. Add the cake mix and stir. Put in 4 cups flour and the salt at the same time. Mix until smooth. Slowly add the rest of the flour until the dough isn't sticky, but not dry. Let dough rise. Shape dough into 2" balls and arrange on greased baking pan. Let dough balls rise. Bake in oven at 350 degrees, for about 20 min. or until tops are golden brown. Brush the hot rolls with butter. Yield 36 rolls.

My First Pinwheel Quilt

2010-06-21T08:44:00.000-07:00

Here is my first pinwheel quilt. I love pinwheel quilts so I had to make one, and I LOVE the fabric Darla by Tanya Whelan. So I put the two together and this is what I came up with. I'm keeping this one for myself! I even hand stitched on the binding instead of sewing it on.

This was the biggest quilt I have stippled so far. It turned out nicely thanks to my sewing machine.

Here is a picture of just the top piece finished.

Another project I finally finished. I used a 12"x 24" canvas and painted it a grey with a hint of blue. Then I sanded it a little. I glued the pictures onto black craft foam for dimension and glued it onto the canvas (the glue I used is Scotch Quick-Dry Adhesive, worked great). Then lastly Connie made me the vinyl lettering. An easy project that I'm glad I finally finished. What handsome boys!

Tanner was invited to a B-day party for a girl, so I whipped up a purse for her. I think it turned out cute, she's nine years old and she seemed to like it.

New Moda Fabric Prices!!!

2010-06-12T12:29:00.001-07:00

Prices have been lowered in my Fabric Shop!!! Check it out and order your favorites. We have Jelly Rolls, Layer Cakes, Honey Buns, Charm Packs, and Patterns. Just click Fabrically Delicious and it will take you to the website. Have fun shopping!!!

Make Your Own Ironing Board Cover

2010-06-07T12:47:00.000-07:00

Here is a very simplified tutorial of making a cover for your ironing board. Mine was only a year old, but looked like a century old because of the cheap padding and cover that came with it. Plus I've learned that when you sew a lot, you iron a lot. But the actual structure of the board is in great condition. So here was my attempt to make a new cover and it turned out great, I love it.

First you will need some cute fabric, I bought mine in the decorators fabric on clearance at Jo-Ann's. You will need elastic cording (I only needed one package), and Insul-Bright for the padding.

Insul-Bright is meant to be used with high heat. You could probably use something else, but I think this is probably the best.

These steps to cover the ironing board are the same for the Insul-Bright and your outside fabric. Do all the steps with the Insul-Bright first, then repeat using your outside fabric.

Lay your ironing board on top of the Insul-Bright or fabric and cut around leaving enough to hem and roll around underneath to cover the edges about 4 to 4.5 inches. (I just left on my old cover).

Hem using about 3/4" seam. Make sure you leave an opening for your cording to go through. You should back stitch at your opening. I made my opening off to the top side.

Feed your cording all the way around trying to evenly disperse the elastic cording as you pull it through.

Pull the cording from both ends tightly so you get a nice snug fitting all the way around. After it's pulled tight and you have a good fit, tie the two ends together. Clip the excess cording, leaving a little extra.

Now that you have finished making your padding cover, you repeat the same exact steps to make your fabric cover for the top.

You are finished and ready to iron. I love it, I don't feel the metal underneath anymore or have to look at all the ugly brown stains. Good luck!

Polka Dots and Stripes

2010-06-02T12:18:00.000-07:00

For Memorial Day weekend our family went to Leavenworth, WA. Leavenworth is a cute Bavarian themed town. There are lots of cute shops, food, and live music that included yodeling. We had a really good time.

One shop had this pottery that I just fell in love with right away. I had a really hard time deciding which ones to get. I loved the red and white the most!

This size bowl was the only one with the stripes and polka dots together, so I definitely had to get this one.

Cute!!!

Okay, so right before we left town, I needed just a few more pieces. If money wasn't an option I would have took it all home.

Utah and Another Girly Quilt

2010-04-29T16:20:00.000-07:00

Last weekend my wonderful husband let me get away to Utah to see friends and family. It was a short, but sweet trip. Here are some pictures of the Tulip Festival at Thanksgiving Point that Kathleen and I went to. The weather was perfect! The flowers were beautiful! One of the best parts was they had Kettle Korn, mmmmmmm, my favorite.

Kathleen and her family just adopted a sweet Ethiopian baby girl. I went to the baby shower and gave her a quilt I made her using Swanky Layer Cake and a pattern from Moda Bake Shop. I'm still just a beginner quilter, but this pattern was easy to whip up. I attempted to stipple the quilt with my new machine and it did wonderful. I love how it turned out.

I appliqued Sitota's name on the quilt. Sitota is an Ethiopian name meaning Gift of God. She is such a good, sweet, adorable baby.

Like the last quilt I made, I machine stitched on the binding, easy and looks good, I think.

My boys had their pinewood derby race with the Cub Scouts. Tanner's car did quite well, and Spencer...well... he's done better in the past, but they all had fun.

A Quilt for Aria

2010-04-16T21:35:00.000-07:00

Here is Aria my brother Chris and his wife Emily's daughter isn't she adorable? I'm excited I will be flying to Utah this weekend to see them and friends. The last time I saw Aria she was just an infant, now she is a 1-1/2 yr. old.

So I have all this girly fabric and what can a mom with four boys do with girly fabric? My first project was a quilt for my niece Aria. Unfortunately this took way longer than I had anticipated. I did a lot of hand quilting along with machine quilting, and with my new sewing machine I was able to finally finish it. In case you are wondering what fabric I used, it's Sultry by Basic Grey, I used the pattern Arcadian Garden which uses a layer cake.

This is actually my first "real" quilt. I made a couple of rag quilts for my boys, but this one took a lot more work. I love the way it turned out, especially after washing it. I love the crinkle look.

You can see that every other square was hand quilted and the others machine quilted.

Finally for the binding, I sewed it on instead of hand stitching it on. I really like it, it's not going anywhere, very strong and way faster.

Now that I've done this quilt, I've started another one, and I can't wait to show you.

My New Friend Juki

2010-03-13T15:59:00.001-08:00

I haven't blogged in a while partially because I haven't sewn forever because I've been in need of a new sewing machine. Now I'm so excited, I finally have my first brand new sewing machine, my previous machines were all used and didn't usually have an owner's manual with it, so I would have to figure things out on my own. This machine is computerized so I don't have to fuss with a lot of different things, it's the Juki HZL-E80. So far this machine is so nice. I researched different machines and for what I needed and what I was willing to pay, this was the best buy for me. I found an awesome deal on it too.

I had bought some fat quarters, with Amy Butler fabric, waiting to be used. I had just the project in mind for my first try at this wonderful sewing machine and here is what I made. It's just the size I wanted.

If you want to know where to find the pattern go here. It is a very cute and easy pattern. It only requires two fat quarters for fabric.

My second son Tanner had his ninth birthday and had a friend party too. I dread throwing friend birthday parties, but they always turn out great. We have a rule that guests DO NOT bring gifts. It sounds odd to most, but I think we get a better turn out because of it, we don't want someone not coming because they didn't buy a gift. Plus it takes a load off parents, I think.

Tanner has a book that gives him something to do when he's bored, The Encyclopedia of Immaturity, you know the child that always says he's bored, that's him. So here are a couple of things that keep him busy. His Little Man, and shrunken apple heads, Bob and Sally. Aren't they so cute? (ha ha ha)

Pink Eye Candy

2010-02-09T09:26:00.000-08:00

I was searching for a certain picture I remember from a Better Homes and Garden Magazine, and found an amazing blog that caught my eye and I couldn't stop looking at all the inspiring pictures, then I actually found what I was looking for on this eye candy blog: Daisy Pink Cupcake. From delicious foods, gardens and decor, I almost want to eat up every picture .

This is what I was looking for (above). I love the hutch look with the cabinets, I'd love to do this in my kitchen. Below is also the same house with a pink wall. I don't think it would work for my house full of boys, but I love it, maybe for my craft room.

I love clawfoot tubs, especially this one.

Lots of white kitchens, gotta love that!!!

How fun are these chairs. I love all the different fabrics.

I can't wait to go back and check out everything at Daisy Pink Cupcake, these are only a few pictures I saw, just icing on the cake, still more to see.

Handmade by Jessica

2010-01-22T13:29:00.000-08:00

Today I'm blogging about a sweet friend Jessica that I've known since my oldest was just a couple months old and she was expecting their first son. We did playgroup together for a few years, then they had to go and move away. But we still keep in touch, in fact we stopped by their place in Idaho this past summer. Jessica has been making the cutest things that you can buy right on her blog, check out what she has. Here are a few of my favorites:

Valentine cards just in time for Valentine's Day. Don't wait, get them Now!!!

A Charm necklace. You can show off your kiddos with a necklace with their birthstones, or pink for girls and blue for boys.

And finally the dinner planner. One Christmas years and years ago I made one for Jessica and my sisters because someone had made one for me. When we went to visit them this last summer Jessica still had it and uses it, amazing. She really keeps on track with knowing what's for dinner. That can be frustrating as the Mom, trying to figure out what to make. Anyways, she has made a new and improved version every Mom needs. Check out this on ABCnews, how you can save money by planing your dinners.

Now go check out Handmade by Jessica!

Drizzled Chocolate Carmel Popcorn

2009-12-31T11:52:00.000-08:00

Baked Carmel Popcorn

2 cups brown sugar

1/2 cup corn syrup

2 cubes butter

1 tsp. salt

1 tsp baking soda

6 quarts popped popcorn

1 cup peanuts or cashews (optional)

Boil sugar, butter, salt and syrup for 5 minutes. Add soda and remove from heat. Mix in nuts and stir into popcorn and bake on cookie sheet for 1 hour at 200 degrees stirring every 15 minutes. Continue to stir while cooling.

Chocolate Drizzle

Slowly heat about 1 cup chocolate chips in microwave on low heat and stir each time you check it until melted enough to drizzle all over popcorn. Be careful not to over heat, it burns easily. Drizzle and let cool. Mmmmm so good!!!

Happy New Year!!!

The Best Christmas Ever

2009-12-26T08:27:00.000-08:00

If the snow won't come to us, then we'll just have to go to It. Christmas Eve we found snow to play in.

Before: Heave, Ho!!!

After: Oops!!!

Even though, I didn't get anything off MY Christmas List, (below)...it was a wonderful Christmas. It's all about the kids, and they kept saying all day "this is the best Christmas EVER", that was the only gift I needed.

My Christmas List

2009-12-18T08:29:00.000-08:00

A new house...

a white kitchen (instead of a white Christmas)...

new Living Room furniture...

and new dining room furniture.

Is that too much to ask for? Okay maybe it is, but it's still fun to dream.

Santa Hat Tutorial

2009-12-11T08:44:00.000-08:00

I've been wanting to do my first tutorial and since I've had a great response to my Santa hats I thought this would be a good one to do. They are easy to make, so you still have time to make one before Christmas. I hope I made the directions clear, if not let me know and I will correct them. Have fun!!!

These directions are for the large Santa hat, to make a smaller one adjust the size of your pattern. First make your pattern. The pattern is a triangle shape with the bottom rounded. My pattern measures 18 1/2" across the bottom from corner to corner. The sides measure 14 1/2" from tip to bottom corner. The top tip to the middle of bottom measures 14". Your pattern doesn't have to be perfect at the bottom, you can always trim later.

After cutting out your fabric, sprinkle cinnamon onto the fabric and rub in all around. This will make the white polka-dots off-white to match the off-white fur.

Now fold the fabric in half lengthwise, sew the edges together using 1/4" seam.

Snip the tip off, don't cut the stitches.

Turn right side out. Stuff the tip first with a small amount so it will bend for extra cuteness when the bell is attached. Stuff the rest of hat, not firmly, but enough to hold it's shape.

Modge podge over the entire hat, except about 1 inch from the bottom (this will be covered with the brim).

While the modge podge is drying cut out your off-white fur for the brim of the hat. The dimensions for the brim 19"x 5 1/2". Fold lengthwise and sew edges together using 1/4" seam.

Turn right side out. The easiest way to do this is using the end of a pencil. Catch the eraser on the end of the fabric and push through with the pencil.

Now put the seam in the middle and fold in half with the seams on the outside and the ends together. Sew ends together using 1/4" seam. Turn right side out to hide seam. Place fur brim around bottom of hat. Make sure the brim fits just right, if you need a snugger fit sew with wider seam, but you don't want the brim to smash the hat. If you need to add more stuffing, do now. You will need to cut out a circle of felt to cover the bottom. It should be a little smaller than the brim so you won't see it when the hat is standing. Glue the felt to the bottom of brim, also add extra dabs of glue to secure the brim to hat.

Last add the bell using a large needle and black floss and tie floss in knot to secure. I spray painted my bell black. Embellish with berries or greenery if you wish.

Another idea: Glitter your bell and use velvet fabric. Don't modge podge!!! Now make one of your own.

Amazing Bazaar Booth

2009-11-24T15:34:00.001-08:00

We had a great time at the Elma Bazaar last weekend. As always Saturday morning was busy with the early bird shoppers. I must say there was this one booth that was AMAZING, Oh yeah, it was ours! It looked great and I can't take credit for it, Connie makes about 90% of the items and sets it all up. She does such a great job as you can see. All I had to do is give her my items and show up. Here are some pictures of the booth and some of the creative handmade things that were in it.

Sorry you missed it? Come next year and see what we are making for you!!!

Elma Bazaar This Weekend

2009-11-19T12:44:00.001-08:00

I'm finally finished making things for the Elma Bazaar this Saturday and Sunday in Elma, Washington at the fairgrounds. If you live in the area, this is a great bazaar, one you don't want to miss. I will be there with my talented friend Connie who has invited me to participate with her. It's not an easy bazaar to become a vendor in because of the long waiting list, so I am grateful to her for letting me join her there. Here are some more things I've finished.

Mr. Snowman

Polka-dot Santa hat
(I painted the bell green on this one)

More Santa hats in different patterns and sizes

Toile Santa hats

Pear Ornaments

(I've seen these around and had to try them)

I used my favorite Christmas fabric

(Funky Christmas by Michael Miller)

I know I've already have posted aprons I've made, but I love trying different fabrics.
(These I used Sweet by Urban Chiks)

Some little boy ties. I wish I did more of these. It's harder to find things for boys at bazaars and even harder to find cute ties.

Plastic bag dispenser using Sweet by Urban Chiks

(Too cute to hide in a Pantry)

Another dispenser using Oh Cherry Oh by Me and My Sister.

That's all I have for now. I hope to post pictures of the booth after the bazaar.

Hope to see you there!!!

Beaded Watch Bracelets

2009-11-16T10:25:00.001-08:00

Today I'm posting about these awesome watch bracelets my Mom makes. What you do is pick what type of watch face you want, then what type of bracelet band you like and hook them together and you have a very custom made watch. She's been very busy making all different kinds using different types of beads and colors. If you love them, and I know you do, you can email her and she will make you a custom made watch.

I've posted pictures of some of the bracelet bands she's made, check them out!

Email Stephanie for more information on pricing and to place an order: sjdesigns4you@gmail.com

Jellyroll Aprons and Bags

2009-11-07T15:20:00.000-08:00

More Jellyroll aprons using Hello Betty by Chloe's Closet. This is such a fun apron pattern. Here are also some Jellyroll bags I've made using Soiree fabric by Lila Tueller, love the colors.

Halloween Fun

2009-11-02T09:13:00.000-08:00

Logan's kindergarten class had a field trip to the pumpkin patch and I went along with him. He loves this time of year because his birthday is on Halloween.

Logan is now 6 years old. He's growing up so fast. He was a cute chubby baby with his tongue always sticking out. I'm glad his tongue stays in his mouth now. He's a fun kid to have around.

Logan was a Mad Scientist, Tanner a Vampire, Preston also a Vampire, and Spencer was Indiana Jones. Spencer almost went without a costume. We had bought him a hat and he couldn't find it so he borrowed Grandpa's hat.

Mr. Clean and Hippie Girl. I forced Jason to wear a gold earring, he didn't want to at first, but it really completed the outfit. He made a great Mr. Clean.

Now the fun part...eating the candy.

Christmas Stockings and Hats

2009-10-28T11:15:00.000-07:00

My poor blog has been neglected. I've been busy making things for the Bazaar coming in November. I should be posting more of what I've been making. Here are a couple things.

Christmas stocking ornaments. I love the Funky Christmas polkadot fabric.

Santa hats. I made some of these last year and they did well, I'm just changing them a little this year using different fabrics and making them in different sizes. Back to work now!

Halloween Bazaar 2008

2009-10-05T14:30:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from the Barn Bazaar last year. I won't be participating in this bazaar this year I didn't quite finish my items in time, it's coming this weekend, plus I'm focusing more on Christmas this year. Here are a few things I did last year.

Black witch hats.

Witch hat with orange polka-dots.

Bats.......Watch Out!!!!

The Cutest Apron Ever

2009-09-29T08:28:00.001-07:00

I made two of these adorable ruffled aprons. I used this pattern. It is pretty simple, but so cute. With one jellyroll you can make two aprons and still have some leftovers. Sorry the picture isn't real crisp, I had my son take a picture of me wearing it.

I'm making Christmas crafts already. Bazaars are coming soon! Here is my favorite Christmas fabric by Michael Miller called Funky Christmas. I'm making ornaments I will share later when I have them all finished.

First Day of School

2009-09-11T17:41:00.000-07:00

The older three boys started school this week, a bit late I think. Tanner is in 3rd grade, Spencer's in 4th and Logan in Kindergarden. Logan has school 2 1/2 days a week. I drove them to school the first day, but Logan couldn't wait until he could ride the bus for the first time.

Second day (1/2 day in the afternoon)...waiting...

Finally here!!!

Now Preston is home alone. Don't feel sorry for him he entertains himself very well. His imagination keeps him busy.

Boy's Ties

2009-08-22T21:09:00.002-07:00

I made a custom tie today for my boys'. Through trial and error, I think I got it and I think it turned out pretty good. Next I will need to work on making a smaller size one. I bought more fabric to work with. Bazaar season is coming up and I thought this would be a great item to make and sell. What do you think?

Fun Filled Summer

2009-08-05T13:21:00.000-07:00

July was a really busy month. Mostly of fun stuff. Here is a peek at my unfinished project. The pattern uses one honeybun. Here I used Wonderland by MoMo for the fabric and Pint-Sized for the pattern, check out my shop to get one for yourself. It's easy cutting since the fabric is already cut into strips.

I love the fun, bright colors.

Pioneer Picnic

This year there was a talented artist painting the kids faces. Luckily our boys were one of the first in line, because soon it was an one hour wait.

Fox:

Wolf:

Tiger:

Longbeach

They were giving free horse wagon rides, so we went for a ride through town. I love beach towns, they are so fun.

Cold water, but when you're a kid, who cares.

Dad and the boys need a snack.

Handsome Boys

All dressed up for church, I couldn't resist taking their picture, so handsome

Friends Forever

My sister Cherish and her family from Arizona came here to the northwest to visit family and our good friend Kathleen and her family were also here visiting from Utah. We have know each other since the first grade. Even though we moved away in the fifth grade we have always kept in touch and spent time together. We have had a lot of fun and crazy times together. Now our own kids are making memories together.

Cherish, Kathleen, Me

Birthday Boy!

2009-07-07T10:15:00.000-07:00

Yesturday our oldest son just turned double digits, 10 years old. He feels pretty good about that. We are feeling pretty good about that too, and blessed. When he was born with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome we didn't know if he would even live at all. But he has been our Miracle Boy and has been so strong and healthy through everything.

Spencer has so much to offer this world. He is smart, an awesome artist, and wants to be an inventor when he grows up. He said he would invent me something that folds and puts laundry away, since I really dislike that chore. I can't wait!

Happy Birthday Spencer!

Fun in the Sun!

2009-06-29T16:14:00.000-07:00

Here are some random posts. It's not very organized but at least I'm posting. I haven't been doing too well with my blog. Here are some highlights from the last few weeks.

Our new toys have been so much fun. A couple of 3-seater Sea-Doos can fit our whole family. We are definitely enjoying, and using them a lot with family and friends.

Lake Mayfield:

CubScout RainGutter Boat Races (these boys are all about fun, not about winning):

SnaggleTooth Tanner (it's now finally out):

Beautiful Peonies:

Last Week of School, Spencer's Crazy Hair Day (Zebra Boy):

Trip to Utah (BYU Campus): Cousins

Friends:

Easy Bag to Sew! Go to Moda Bake Shop
for the free pattern. If you need fabric visit my new website Fabrically Delicious. If you have never sewn a bag before, this was my first and it was surprisingly very easy. If I can do it so can you!

I busted Jason! (He didn't give me enough spending money)

Great Summer Treat:

Pudding Pop recipe from the free Kraft Foods Magazine.

Stay Cool!!!

I Love Spring

2009-05-22T12:47:00.001-07:00

Spring...Sunshine...Flowers...oh yeah, and inch worms.

Fabrically Delicious

2009-05-15T11:27:00.001-07:00

I'm soooooo excited!!! Look what came in the mail yesturday. These are the sweetest fabric desserts. I love them so much that I'm starting my own online shop selling them and other delicious fabric. My business name is: Fabrically Delicious. I'm blogging about this a little premature, (I'm still working on my website) but I couldn't resist showing these off. The colors are so beautiful, you really could almost eat them.

What are they anyway?

They are precut fabric strips rolled up super cute, or precut squares bundled together. There are many patterns that go along with them.

If you don't sew, nows the time to start. These precut fabric pieces are ready to sew, no cutting or very little cutting needed, it makes sewing sew easy.

Each set includes about 40 different coordinating fabrics that are designed to go together. You no longer need to go to the fabric shop and pick out 40 different bolts of fabric and have the fabric cut from each bolt. Ta-dah!!! They are already to go and the cutest designs, colors, and quality.

Jelly Rolls

Layer Cakes

Charm Packs

More to come.....

Yummy Waffle Cones

2009-05-01T11:24:00.000-07:00

One of our favorite gifts my husband and I bought ourselves for Christmas one year was a waffle cone maker from Williams and Sonoma. Jason worked at Baskin and Robbins when he was in High School, so he considers himself a professional waffle cone maker. So after we bought it he went to Baskin and Robbins and bought a case (yes, that's a lot) of waffle cone mix. Now we make our own fresh waffle cones whenever we want.

One of our favorite ice creams, Girl Scout Thin Mint Cookie, it's seasonal, which is probably a good thing for me.

Waffle Cones + Ice Cream = Happy Kids

You know when you enter an ice cream shop or pass by one at the mall and it smells soooooooo good. Thats what our house smell like when we make them, absolutely wonderful. A great gift idea!

2009-04-24T08:52:00.000-07:00

Remember these? I bought the fabric in the beginning of March. Well, I finally finished them. They've been almost done for a while, but with moving and other responsibilities that have come up it's taken me a while to get back to them. I made a few table runners. I made up the patterns, but was inspired by Camille's quilts (like the flowers and circles) who also designed the fabric. My first experiment: Remember I'm still learning.

Experiment 2:

Experiment 3: This one was fun, I tried stippling on my sister's fancy sewing machine and stippling was pretty fun. It wasn't as hard as I thought it would be. But luckily I had a small project to work with.

Now I must admit there are some mess ups that I didn't realize until it was too late for me to fix or want to fix, like placement of fabric patterns, but pretend you can't tell even if you try.

I'm Finally Back

2009-04-10T15:10:00.000-07:00

We have finished moving and are mostly settled in. Spring has arrived, the trees are beautiful and we even have seen some sun. We tried to take advantage of the sunshine when it came. Jason went for a bike ride and gave his bike a bikewash, Preston joined in.

Monday I really needed to go grocery shopping, but this bench has been calling my name for a while, it's been ready for a fresh coat of paint. So our tummies had to wait until Tuesday. The weather was too good to resist painting instead of shopping.

Before:

After:

I've been craving bright fun colors lately. This aqua did the trick. Then I made this 'Happy Birthday' banner for our craft group at church. I think it turned out cute. You can buy banners at http://myemmiecakes.blogspot.com/, she makes really cute banners.

Good Times

2009-03-05T10:18:00.000-08:00

I'm blogging today about many things. We will be moving out soon into my In-laws home while they serve a service mission in Malaysia. We will be taking care of their home while they are gone (and no not for free, I wish) until they get back in about 18 months. So anyways, I will be busy this month.

Make Your Own Pizza Night

Our family LOVES pizza. We have it at least once a week for dinner, usually homemade. Tanner wanted to make little pizzas, so everyone made their own. It was perfect everyone made theirs how they wanted, so no toppings were picked off. Lately my favorite has been a Mediterranean pizza, yummy. We also like taco pizza for one of our usual pizza nights.

Our Boys

Spencer is our oldest 9 1/2 years old. He was born with a serious Heart defect, Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome and has a pacemaker, but he has been doing great. Our miracle child.

Tanner, the second oldest just turned 8 years old. Monkeying around! Tanner was baptized by his Dad. He had lots of family and friends there to support him.

Logan here, you know like the X-men Wolverine Logan. He loves me to make up his hair. He likes the Elvis hairdo too. He's 5 years old.

Preston, our youngest is 3 years old. Cutie!

I have the greatest kids! It makes me happy that they are great friends with each other.

Sewing Project

My future project. I am a Camille Roskelley fan. She designs quilt patterns and here is her fabric, Cotton Blossoms. I love her patterns they are hip and fun. I think I will stick with some table runners for now, but I'm looking forward to making one of her patterns in the future.

Dream Kitchen

2009-02-26T15:01:00.000-08:00

Here is a picture of my dream kitchen. I love the wood island, white cabinets, and wood floor.

My kitchen now has oak cabinets that the previous owner had custom built and when I first saw them I wanted to paint them, but I was too chicken. I knew we wouldn't live here forever, so I wasn't sure what it would do to the resale value. We will be renting out our house soon, so I'm glad I didn't paint them. But I would love to have a kitchen I love in our next house, even if I have to paint the cabinets.

Quilting Can Be Fun!!!

2009-02-19T13:52:00.000-08:00

I did it! I finished the table runner. Okay here's the truth it wasn't as easy as I thought it would be. But I've learned a few things. I learned that if you keep poking yourself with your needle and pins you end up with a lot sores on your fingers and blood on your project. I really need to invest in a thimble. Also, stippling with my sewing machine was a wreck. I really need a better sewing machine before attempting that again. So I hand stitched the whole thing, luckily it's not very big. Yes very time consuming, but worth the work. It's the finished product that matters most.

I love it! The colors add so much sunshine and cheerfulness to our kitchen. I'm looking for my next project.

Happy Birthday Alaina

2009-02-13T14:06:00.000-08:00

Yesturday would have been our sweet baby girl's first birthday. She was born with a heart defect, Transposition of the Great Arteries, and at three days old had surgery and a 97% chance of survival and to live a normal life. Unfortunately surgery didn't go as planned and she passed away that night.

I don't want to have a depressing blog, so I won't write how terrible it was or feels, but we feel blessed to have had her for her short time here on earth. She was beautiful, she had my hands.

My sisters drew a beautiful portrait of her. Thank you so much Candice and Cherish.

We went to her gravesite and brought flowers. I love her headstone. I think it's important to have a headstone that reminds you of that special person you love. Her hand and footprint was hand carved to replicate a 3-D hand and foot mold we have from her hand and foot.

We love and miss you Alaina.