Hip Mama Crafts

New business ~hj~

2009-04-23T18:07:00.008-05:00

I am sure you have all given up on me by now... I have been trying to spend more time with my family. And in the meantime, I started my own card business. I am making handmade cards and selling them in a few local coffee shops! I love it! So I thought I'd give you a peek! If you are intertested in ordering some, they are all originals, individuals are $2.50 and 5 or more $2.00 each -- plus shipping! Email me at hjcards@hotmail.com for inqueries! Thanks for looking!

I could turn this one but it is my favorite....

Fabulous!

2008-06-17T07:48:00.003-05:00

Our trip was so fantastic! The kids had so much fun... E (2) was beaming the whole week and my little guy (6) was a serious daredevil! He is not normally so adventurous so it was fun to see a different side to him. He wanted to go on every rollercoaster and even tried the Tower of Terror! E met every character and raved the whole week about how nice they were to her and how they were her best friends!

It was fun to start our summer vacation with that trip but now we are back to real life!

M2 had soccer yesterday, so we went and E had a melt down because she wasn't playing too. So after soccer off we tread to Parks and Rec. now she too is in soccer. Hopefully, it will tire her out and she'll take longer naps! :)

I just noticed I am creeping up on my 100th post... I better get sewing!

M-I-C see you real soon K-E-Y why? because we love you!

2008-06-06T10:48:00.003-05:00

We are on our way to the Happiest Place ON Earth! I can wait!!! I think I am almost more excited than the kids... I just hope we get there easily. We fly stand by and I am afraid the flights are quite full. I can't wait to tell you all about it!

E loves Goofy!

See you real soon!

Blog Break

2008-05-08T17:17:00.003-05:00

Sorry for the blog break... I haven't been feeling very crafty... probably because I have a list of thing that HAVE to be done. I like to fly by the seat of my pants instead! There is only 4 more weeks of school and I have to make chair pockets for M2's teacher- before the year end. I have a crib bumper and crib skirt promised. And I want to make a picnic quilt.

Is it just me is summer creeping up way too fast? I am all about warmer weather but I am not too sure about the craziness of summer break. Almost every weekend is full already!

The exciting news is we have a robin's nest under our deck. It has a least 2 eggs in it and one that fell out or was stolen. I can't wait to see the little birdies!

Winners!!!!

2008-04-25T10:49:00.003-05:00

Bloggy Giveaway winners!!!

Winner of the Starbuck's giftcard:

Eleisia said...
I would love to win a cookbook and coffee! Two of my favorites!

Winner of the Southern Living Cookbook:

Sarah said...
Please enter me, thanks!

Thank you so much to everyone who stopped by to enter! It was so much fun!!!!

It's time for Bloggy Giveaways!

2008-04-21T09:21:00.005-05:00

*****THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED! THANK YOU EVERYONE!

This time I am participating in the bloggy giveaways! I will be giving away two things-

A Starbuck's gift card -$10
A Southern Living cookbook

There will be 2 winners picked from the random generator on April 25th!

* sorry only open to US residents... Thanks!

*Also, please be sure I can get a hold of you if you win!!! ;)

Finished!

2008-04-07T19:27:00.003-05:00

I finished E's quilt!!!! I love how the binding pulls it all together and without even realizing it - it matches her crib bedding! She is thrilled with it too... Can you tell?

Boo Bear's Spring Quilt

2008-04-05T12:04:00.005-05:00

I started (and almost finished) a lap quilt for E yesterday. I absolutley LOVE it. And, AND I did free motion quilting for the first time... I love free motion quilting. Here are some pictures. I just have to do the binding (Pink check) If I can remember how....Front:
Back:Detail:I wouldn't say it is perfect but it's pretty good! :)

34

2008-03-28T17:00:00.001-05:00

Here are 34 unusual things about me in honor of my birthday on March 31:

1. I am the youngest of 6.

2. My closest sibling, a brother, is 13 years older- my oldest sibling, a sister, 23 years older.

3. My Dad was 72 when my son was born.

4. I was a flight attendant for 10 years.

5. I loved it!

6. I said I'd never date a pilot- then I married one.

7. I have a niece 3 months younger than me.

8. I played percussion in Middle School and High School.

9. I was in the Drumline for Marching Band.

10. I was in 4-H.

11. I love to travel.

12. I use to Model at the local mall for Maurices, The Buckle, Express and Dayton's.

13. I am glad I decided modeling wasn't for me- I like food too much :)

14. I've always hated my toes- they curl...

15. I scooped ice cream in High School- yum!

16. I am a crier. Even for Hallmark commercials:)

17. I love Netflix- what a great invention.

18. I tend to procrastinate- or rather, I do better under pressure:)

19. I love summer in the midwest.

20. Alias and Veronica Mars are my all time favorite t.v. shows

21. I use to love red but now my favorite colors are pink and green.

22. Bright colors inspire me

24. This is harder than I thought :)

25. I always wanted to be a crafty mom.

26. I hope I am.

27. I hate to exercise but love my new exercise class (BOSU Boot Camp of all things!)

29. I miss my Southern friends.

30. I miss sweet tea

31. I am sick of the snow

32. and the cold

33. I believe in good manners...

34. I am glad my birthday isn't on April Fools day!

I can see why some of you don't like meme's. It is hard not to over think it! :)

Egg coloring

2008-03-27T10:47:00.002-05:00

We all helped with the egg coloring this year. Even little E. She loved doing it "all by herself".

I personally like the bright colors. It screams "SPRING" to me.... And boy do we need spring- it is supoose to snow again tonight! :(

I found the basket at a thrift store for 25 cents- isn't it cute?

Amazing...

2008-03-25T16:15:00.004-05:00

Dear sweet boy... it seems like just yesterday you were fighting for your life. So how is it that you are six years old already? You are strong and smart and full of life! This picture of you always makes me want to cry but it also reminds me how strong you are. In the face of adversity you pulled through. I hardly knew you and I loved you so much! Happy Birthday M2, you are growing so fast!

Donations for a Silent Auction

2008-03-13T08:57:00.003-05:00

What I have learned from blogging....

I have learned that just because I find my life boring others may not....

I've learned that you can have friends even if you've never seen them before or them you...

I've learned that crafters and artists are some of the most generous people I have ever met....

I've learned you don't have to be perfect to be a crafter and that it's more fun if you aren't...

I've learned that even if I don't think I am talented- someone does (we all have our strengths and weaknesses)

I've learned we shouldn't ever compare ourselves with others....

I've learned that when you blog you take a chance, put yourself "out there" but the rewards are tenfold.....

I wanted to tell you about a charity that my team at Southern Living at HOME supports:

Childrens Hopechest in Colorado Springs.While they do mostly Russian (and some African) orphanages -we have specialized in working thru their ministry centers - where we contribute to working with orphanage graduate girls - ages 16 - 21 - to try to give them education, places to live and counseling - and hope - etc.

In June we have a Silent Auction at our Convention. The money goes to the work to help these girls - 80% of whom usually end up in prostitution without the help of the ministry centers.

I was wondering if anyone out there would be interested in contributing to this Silent Auction. My Director and her husband have gone on a few of these Missions are very passionate about this. I would need the contributions by the first week in May. Thank you...

O.R.B.Co Giveaway is on and what I've been up to...

2008-03-13T08:25:00.009-05:00

http://oldredbarnco.blogspot.com/2008/03/giving-away-quilt.html

I made a new quilt for my son's teacher. She just had a baby boy on the 5th. It is batting sandwiched in between 2 pieces of flannel and then I added a fringe. I like how it turned out and it will be extra warm!

And I have been slowly working on my "Funky" Quilt. I figure slow and steady wins the race-- right?

As for my sibling weekend. Our drive down to Indianapolis was slow going. It took 12 hours rather than 9 and we saw 22 cars in the ditch (within 10 miles!).

Then, to add to that my sister (the oldest) left her purse at a McDonalds. We had left and driven 25 miles before she realized it and that added an hour! Luckily, her purse was still there with everything in it!

The weekend was relaxing. We didn't have to think about any meals. My sister-in-law graciously took care of all that for us. We had tacos and enchiladas, breakfast buffet, one meal out and steak and lobster our last night. Our first night there we all attempted to play "Guitar Hero". That was interesting to say the least! I happily could score as high as my brothers (it wasn't too high:) but my sisters struggled. There was one major disagreement which I think got blown out of proportion because it happened after we all went wine tasting. But all is forgiven now.

I think we plan on trying to do this every or every other year. I think it will keep us grounded and remind us how lucky we are to have all six of us!

(hint: I am the youngest)

I especially enjoyed this weekend because NEVER in my whole life have I gone on a trip with all my brothers and sisters. I was born 13 years after the youngest before me and they were all born within 10 years. My Dad was in the Navy when they were growing up so they moved around a lot. I lived in the same town during the majority of my childhood. I always say I was an only child with siblings :)

Old Red Barn Co. Quilt giveaway!

2008-03-07T09:31:00.003-06:00

CHECK THIS OUT!!!!

Sick...

2008-02-29T11:05:00.002-06:00

I know a lot of you are waiting patiently to hear about my siblings weekend. I'll tell you it was fantastic! The best uninterrupted time I have ever had. Though it was short.

I promise I will go into more details soon. Unfortunately, I have the stomach flu today. So my goal today is to not pass it on to M2 and E. I'll be back soon...

MP3 holder

2008-02-15T14:46:00.003-06:00

I made a holder for my MP3 player today. Since I am going on a long car ride next week I decided I wanted a holder that was padded instead of the leather one my hubby gave me a couple years ago.

I also made my babies those hearts to remind them that I love them!

Happy Valentine's Day!

2008-02-14T10:02:00.004-06:00

I hope you all have a very HAPPY day. Live well, love much and laugh often!

I spent last evening with my son making valentine's for his class. We had so much fun... I cut out the hearts, gave him some paper scraps and cut out some shapes from my Cricut machine. Here is the finished product-

He also gave me the best present of all! He read a whole book to me, "Green Eggs and Ham." (he's 5) :)

"Sibling Weekend"

2008-02-12T17:04:00.000-06:00

Ok... I need a few ideas. I am not normally a car riding girl. I have been flying around the country since I was 19 and a flight attendant. Yes, I'm spoiled-- I know. But in a few weekends 4 of my 5 siblings and I are packing up a van and heading south to my brother's house. A "Sibling Weekend". We have done this before but we all lived in the same vicinity then and that was about 10 years ago. Any suggestions on what 5 adults can do in the car for 18 hours? I know, I am probably putting way too much thought into this, but I guess I am so use to entertaining my kids-- I just want to have a few tricks up my sleeve. Did I mention that all of my brothers and sisters are 13-23 years older than me? That I am really the baby? That most of them are grandparents? Thanks for any ideas you can provide! :)

Fabric

2008-02-09T11:20:00.000-06:00

Alright, back to the regularly scheduled program. I have been under the weather for a few days with a bladder infection. I am still not 100 % but I wanted to get these promised pictures out!

Sorry The pictures are sideways. That is how Blogger put them in...

Intentional....

2008-02-08T14:54:00.000-06:00

I am striving to be more intentional in my business. I know some of you are aware, but not everyone, I am a Southern Living at HOME Consultant. I have been for 4 years. I have always bumbled along but I want to succeed. I want to be a great Consultant and I want to win a free trip, just once, because I was intentional.

And that brings me here. I know not all of you will be interested. But some of you might. I am currently working towards a trip to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (or a fancy resort in Orlando, FL) and I really want to acheive this goal. I need to sponsor 2 people to be consultants and have a bunch of sales.

I LOVE this company. They do so much for us! They are always giving, always surprising us with beautiful, versatile products! So, if you are the least bit interested in this company- products or career- please check out my website. I would deeply appreciate it... Thank you...

Anxiously waiting?

2008-01-31T08:52:00.000-06:00

I know you are all sitting on the edge of your seats to hear about my loot!

But I have to tell you --I am a little disappointed. There was tons and tons of fabric but no cotton. None at all. A lot of polyester, some silk, and some other things I can't even describe. The one thing I am excited about is there was some vinyl. I think I can stiill make some bags out of the polyester and maybe a little dress for E. And some fabric looked good for lounge pants. Any other ideas for Polyester? I will try to get some pictures up later today or tomorrow!

My ship has finally come in....

2008-01-29T17:31:00.000-06:00

A friend of a friend is giving little ol me bags and bags full of fabric! I have no idea what kind of fabric but he has had it stashed in closets and bookcases since his Mom died, not knowing what to do with it! My friend says she has 1 large black garbage bag full and at least 1 other garbage bag full (so full she can barely carry it!) I get the goods tomorrow and I can't wait to dig for treasures! I don't know how I am going to sleep tonight..... I'll let you know what I find soon!

warmer days...

2008-01-28T14:58:00.000-06:00

It finally warmed up to above 0. It got up to 40 degrees today- it must be summer! E and I took the dog for a walk around the block (a big block) and she made it all the way!

The rest of the day, for me, has been spent at Bloggy Giveaways! I have no idea how many of these I have posted on but hopefully I'll win something... There are some great prizes! I feel a little guilty not doing a giveaway myself but I have yet to send my Pay it forward swap. So I guess I'll have to catch it next time. Plus, my 100th post should be coming up and my birthday is in 2 months!

The earrings are irrelevant except that I bought them on etsy at sulu's -- I can't wait to get them!

wish me luck...

2008-01-24T17:02:00.000-06:00

I decided to try quilting my quilt. I may end up ripping it out and asking amandajean to do it but it doesn't hurt to try... I am going to go to Joann's tomorrow morning to get thread and binding and then start... Yikes!
I have to keep reminding myself "it won't be perfect but that's ok, it won't be perfect but that's ok......" wish me luck!

More sadness and moving on...

2008-01-23T10:10:00.000-06:00

I don't want my blog to turn into gloom and doom but while in the process of researching my friend's death I found out about 2 more deaths. My old supervisor and friend lost her daughter on Monday. She had a brain aneurysm. Very sad... And another aquaintance from that job died at Christmas from the flu. And then Heath Ledger. Why is everyone dying at such young ages????

Anyway... I am taking one day at a time. Maynard, I found out, died from an infection that started in his throat and then moved to his brain. I think knowing this will help with the closure.

Thank you everyone who commented on my last post... it is nice to have friends like amandajean and mr.monkeysuit have blogged about... friends I have never met.

I am hoping to baste my quilt. Then I need to decide if I want to try to jump into it myself or elicit the help of a professional to quilt it...

Here's E's "teetee" (blankie)
It really isn't relevant except I just want to cuddle down until this week is over....

a dear friend...

2008-01-20T23:42:00.000-06:00

I lost a dear friend this weekend. He died on friday. We had one of those friendships you kind of take for granted... you think he will always be there, we hadn't talked for months, almost a year, but now that he is gone he has taken a part of my heart with him. good-bye maynard... i miss you...

Finally Finished...

2008-01-19T21:20:00.000-06:00

I started this quilt top in September-- and today I finally finished it! Hopefully I will get it basted by Tuesday! I LOVE IT!!!

It has been SO cold here. I ventured out early to go to my exercise class and was surprised to see the Y very busy. We have Church tomorrow and then the Packer game tomorrow night . Go Packers!

Snowy Day...

2008-01-17T11:23:00.001-06:00

Today is a snowy day and although I would like nothing more than to cuddle in and watch movies all day. I have bundle up E and myself and veture out to the grocery store. As if that isn't hard enough without snow! But it is nice to look out the window and see fresh white snow instead of yucky brown snow.

I don't have anything craft wise to show you but I do hope to finish my funky quilt and E's quilt by the end of February. I am, hopefully, going down to Indianapolis the last weekend in February for a "sibling weekend"(no kids!). I have 2 sisters and 3 brothers and we haven't spent the weekend together forever. We are driving which is not my favorite thing- i'd rather fly-but it would nice to be able to cuddle with my blanket!

Funky Quilt....

E's Quilt....

**I got to go grocery shopping without E! Yay! Thanks amandajean! It sure is messy out there... Yuck!

middle of the week with E....

2008-01-09T10:13:00.000-06:00

My son always hates the middle of the week. But the good thing about it is you still have 2 1/2 more days of routine. I like routines. Our is get up, get M2 to school, an hour or so of computer/movie (for E) time, playtime, lunch time, nap/craft time, M2 home from school, pre-dinner, dinner, downtime, bedtime. Not too bad. I have been trying to spend less time on the computer and more time actively playing with E. It has been fun finding out what she loves to do. Her absolute favorite thing is books, playing with her brothers toys while he gone is a close second, crafts and train. Hopefully, there will be doll playing soon. :)

Aren't these feeties so cute?!

She loves her puppy! Isn't puppy so patient?

Blah winter days

2008-01-07T08:39:00.001-06:00

I really hate these kind of winter days where the weather is warmer but at a price- the snow is melting... it is slushy, wet, and messy... and I really dislike the smell of wet dog!

Catalog bag and sneak peek

2008-01-04T13:51:00.000-06:00

Hi.... Well, I have started on my 2008 Project list. Here is the Catalog Bag I made today... some of you are wondering why do I need a catalog bag? I am a Southern Living at HOME Consultant and it is a good advertising tool! The workmanship isn't top notch....

But it serves it's purpose!

And here is a sneak peek at E's quilt for her "Big Girl" bed.... I am loving the colors!

Also, we started the potty training thing! Oh how I dislike Potty Training!

Happy New Year Friends!

2007-12-31T11:13:00.000-06:00

I hope you all have a very happy New Year! Here's to a creative 2008!

New Years Resolutions

2007-12-31T10:28:00.000-06:00

I really hope to keep up with these this year....

Continue my Core Conditioning class at the Y

Add more classes gradually

Achieve a semi-flat stomach by the time we go to Hawaii in November

Finish Funky Quilt, E's Quilt, Wall Quilt and 4 Christmas presents by July 1.

Learn a new craft

Spend more one on one time with my children

Become more active in my community

Post my 100th Post... it's coming.

Comment more - look out! :)

Pay it forward package

2007-12-27T19:12:00.001-06:00

I received my package from the Pay it Forward swap...Mountain-Quiltist went above and beyond! She allowed me to choose between a quilt or fabric (she saw my "green-eyed monster" post)... I chose fabric and this is what I received on Christmas eve no less...

She promised 12 fat quarters but there was much more! I have decided to make a wall quilt as the primary color matches my walls perfectly... stay tuned!

Merry Christmas Y'all

2007-12-26T15:57:00.000-06:00

I hope y'all had a very Merry Christmas! We had a very white one....

4 presents... check!

2007-12-21T08:45:00.000-06:00

There is nothing like putting all your projects in one place to see how busy you have been!

Here is proof I have actually accomplished some things...

Teachers gift with Bubble Bath and Fudge..... check

Hat for Dad..... check

Hat for little guy.... check

Hat, scarf, bag and lotion for family's secret santa gift (aka: my niece).... check!

Yeah! I am making some progress!

Your dash

2007-12-18T13:50:00.000-06:00

My Mom shared this with me and I want to share it with you!

www.dashpoemmovie.com

Please keep Nicolette and her husband in your prayers, they lost his mother this week....

Green Eyed Monster

2007-12-15T17:15:00.000-06:00

This time of year no matter how hard I try, the little green eyed monster sits on my shoulder... One blog had pictures of everyone's Fabric Stashes- I am so jealous. My fabric stash is piddly. All I want for Christmas is a great fabric stash!

I have so much shopping to do and I feel very unmotivated and overwhelmed.

I hope this week goes a little better- 9 days til Christmas! UGH!!!
Here are some projects I have finished... whew!

My babies...

2007-12-12T17:13:00.000-06:00

I just wanted to share this with you....

Aren't they sweet?

Plumtickled Giveaway...

2007-12-12T12:29:00.000-06:00

Check out this giveaway for (our favorite!) FREE Fabric!!! I REALLY want to win.... But good luck! : )

Pay it forward...

2007-12-08T16:11:00.000-06:00

I love this concept!

Mountain-Quiltist wrote about this on her blog as follows:
"Here's how it goes: I will send a handmade gift to the first 3 people who leave a comment on my blog requesting to join this Pay It Forward exchange. I don’t know what that gift will be yet and you may not receive it tomorrow or next week, but you will receive it. The only thing you have to do in return is pay it forward by making the same promise on your blog.

So, if you're one of the first 3 people to comment, copy and paste the above paragraph on your blog and share the crafty love! I do need to be able to get a hold of you somehow. If I can't get you for some reason I will choose the next person. You need to post here and then Post this Exchange on your blog and I will contact you."

Okay so I responded and now I'm joining her by posting this on my blog, so if you are among the first three to comment here and follow through on your blog, etc, etc, etc.....Please make sure that I can get in touch with you!

Winter is here for sure...

2007-12-03T09:13:00.001-06:00

So what is a Northern girl, turned Southern girl, turned Northern girl to do? This is our first major snow storm in 10 years and it already isn't going well for my husband... But I am TOTALLY loving it! Of course we do not have a snowblower. So M had to shovel the whole driveway- he is not use to that so of course it was a major deal!

The kids, dog and I had fun though.....

Maybe today I can get some craft projects done!

Christmas Dress

2007-11-26T22:07:00.001-06:00

I have been wanting to make a pillowcase dress for ages but have been too chicken to try... But as it turns out it was SUPER easy! I bought a yard of plaid Christmas material and only used about 3/4 of it. Also, I totally winged it. I didn't even get measurements. And it turned out perfect! All she needs now is a cream turtleneck and stockings!

Quilt-a-long

2007-11-26T19:14:00.000-06:00

I feel like such a bad friend. I really should be doing the quilt-a-long with Amanda. I need it for myself as well as to support her. But my stash is low and so is my cash at this point. So my thoughts are with her... Doesn't she do a great job?
I survived E's birthday and Thanksgiving. On Friday we start the Christmas parties... By the way... Thanks for all the great gift ideas. I am thinking of trying Wee Wonderful's Olive. Has anyone else out there attempted it?

Happy Thanksgiving!

2007-11-22T10:26:00.000-06:00

I hope everyone has a very blessed Thanksgiving... We are off to my sisters house... and it is snowing!

Happy Birthday Princess...

2007-11-21T09:43:00.000-06:00

I can't believe my sweet little baby is 2 today. How did that happen? I am so proud of you Princess... You are growing so BIG. I love you!

Holiday Craziness

2007-11-19T09:45:00.000-06:00

I need some ideas... I want to make a lot of presents this Christmas. I would like a list of quick and easy ideas... Any suggestions? Mostly for my friends ages 28-40. I am thinking bags, or something. Thank you...

oh where oh where have I been?

2007-11-14T23:02:00.000-06:00

Well, have you ever had this panicky feeling when something totally unexpected happens? Like when your computer gets an awful yucky virus and your whole online world goes black, you feel so out of touch in almost every aspect of life.... and that was just 2 days! I sent my husband out to get a new computer tonight and now I am back! I have some swap goodies to show but that may have to wait a few days until I figure this new high tech thing out! Hang in there...

Baby Logan's quilt and more

2007-11-08T09:31:00.001-06:00

I finally finished Baby Logan's quilt and delivered it to him last weekend. I love how it turned out and it was really fun give it to them. I had made the older kids flannel blankets when they were born but I wanted his to be extra special. I was in the waiting room and met his brother and sister just minutes after they were born but we moved away before Logan was born so I didn't get to meet him until this visit and he is almost 4 months old!

First knitting project without holes.... a scarf!
And last Friday, the day before our trip, I decided I needed a new bag to take... Here's what I came up with. I am not sure about the flower though, I may have to change it up to match better!

Big trips and computer problems

2007-11-07T07:47:00.000-06:00

My son and I went on a trip to Memphis to visit some friends last weekend. We just moved north in April and we have only been down to visit one other time since. It was really nice... Baby Logan and his family loved his quilt which made me feel really good. We got to visit our old church and see almost everyone we wanted to. The only bad part is we woke up @ 4 am Saturday for a 6:45 am flight and then we were bumped (we fly stand-by) and didn't get into Memphis until 1 pm. It was a major bummer!

When we got back we had Parent/Teacher Conferences for M2. They went really well. I love his teacher!

And on top of all that busyness, our computer was down over the weekend! I think we are back on track though...

Princess E....

and

M2's class pumpkin..

Tuesday...

2007-10-30T12:19:00.000-05:00

Today I have so much to do. You know when you have so much to do and you really can't get motivated because you don't really know where to start and so you procrastinate by sitting at the computer or busying yourself with things so not on your list?

I have a quilt that needs to be done by friday, a swap project to finish by Thursday so I can mail it before going out of town, 2 costumes to finish by tomorrow, a Southern Living at HOME party to submit by 1 pmI have to pack, and prepare my husband for 3 days alone with E! Oh me....

I'm Back!

2007-10-26T08:22:00.000-05:00

Sorry for the little lull there. I have been pondering some projects and I haven't gotten much done except for some swap things I cannot yet post:) I will post a few other things later today.

I am also trying to prepare for a Southern Living at HOME party I am having on Sunday. I am a consultant and since I moved in April, I have only had one party. I am really nervous and on top of that my sister is hosting so half of the guests will be family. Sometimes that is a whole lot harder!

I hope everyone had a great week--- it is almost the weekend. :)

yarn extravaganza!!!

2007-10-18T10:02:00.000-05:00

Wow! I went a little crazy at the thrift shop yesterday!!! I got all this and the bucket for less than $10.

No knitting needles though, I guess I have to go on a goose hunt!

Amandajean restarted me on knitting so I guess I went a little crazy! (no pun intended)

Also, I wonder how many of you have done this? I was so excited to share my blog with my friends so I emailed them with the link. I am making a baby quilt for one of those friends and of course I posted my progress on my blog-- I haven't given it to her yet but she saw it when she checked on my blog! oops! Hopefully lesson learned!!!

42 cards and a sweet little guy....

2007-10-12T09:06:00.000-05:00

Amanda and I had another fun crafternoon yesterday... This time- card making. I was in desperate need of some as there are 36 birthdays in my family alone.

Amanda let me borrow her stamps when she had to leave for the evening so I made a total of 42.

My son loves to craft too and my heart overflowed when he made this for me!

Bag and Quilt Giveaway

2007-10-10T11:39:00.000-05:00

Hi y'all --

Amandajean over @ CRAZY Mom Quilts is giving away a cute bag for her 200th post!

And, as if that isn't enough, whoever sends her the most referrals is also in the drawing to win the fall quilt... So, please tell her I sent you- if you haven't been there already!

Good Luck!~ Hip Mama Crafts

A new friend...

2007-10-05T20:04:00.000-05:00

We have a new addition to our family... Introducing "Max"!

He is our resident alien : ) The kids are fighting over him so I'll probably have to make a Maxie too!

I also made this little skirt for E. I thought it would look cute over jeans and pants!

Go to go- it's movie night at our house...

Use what you have: Skirt Bag

2007-10-04T18:16:00.000-05:00

Well I didn't actually have this but it was only $1.70. I love shopping with a creative mind- it opens so many doors :)
I whipped it up in under 1/2 an hour! I was even able to put 2 pockets on the inside because it was really a skort! I love it!!!

Back....

Front...

Don't forget to sign up for Chara Michele's Fall Swap... By October 8th!

2007-10-03T20:44:00.000-05:00

My Peculiar Aristocratic Title is:
Grand Duchess Hjordi the

Amicable of Giggleswick on

the Naze
Get your Peculiar Aristocratic Title

This was fun.. I needed to add a little sillines to my day! Here is our piano- we are lovin' it!

Funky Quilt progress

2007-10-03T10:22:00.000-05:00

Sorry I haven't posted in a few days. I have been preparing my house for the piano and working on my funky quilt. The piano arrived today and I hope to finish my quilt top by the weekend...

Here are some pictures the little rows aren't sewn to the big rows yet.

By the way, that very spot in my livingroom now holds a Steinway Grand Piano! : )

Re: Use what you have

2007-09-30T20:02:00.000-05:00

amandajean @ crazy mom quilts asked what we like to re-use. Tonight I made a pouch from my sons old track pants.... It was from the bottom so the zipper was already attached! : )

It's a little wonky but I think it will work for crayons or something....

And here are some thrift store finds--

It was a rainy weekend but I got started on my funky quilt finally! And my house is all clean for "the piano"!

a very big pot holder...

2007-09-28T11:36:00.000-05:00

I was in desperate need of a pot holder, so why not make one... Well, I winged it, as usual, and it ended up a little large. In fact, it is bigger than a sheet of paper! But I figure...bigger is better right??? I love the buzzing bees!

Girls Weekend

2007-09-28T08:50:00.000-05:00

Last weekend, my two sisters, my sister-in-law, and Mom got together for our annual "Girls Weekend" which just happened to land on my Mom's 76th Birthday! We had so much fun shopping, eating, and drinking. We went out for lunch but for dinner my Mom made the most wonderful pasta dish. I was in charge of dessert so I made my Mom's Apple pie. I was so nervous- I didn't think it would be as good as when Mom makes it... But she loved it!

I had to make one for my family while I was gone or I knew they would never allow me to leave the house!

I thought I was just a messy crafter but come to find out I am just messy!

TADA! hAppY BiRtHdAy MoM!!!

Steinway

2007-09-25T08:16:00.000-05:00

Well y'all, I know this one has nothing to do with being a craft addict but it is very exciting...

My in-laws are giving my M and I a brand new Steinway Piano. I can't believe how beautiful this is. We went last night to pick it out. It is a Steinway Model M, 5'7 Grand piano. It is Ebony satin and totally magnificent. I never imagined I would have such a beautiful piece of art in my home... It will be delivered sometime in the next 2 weeks! yea!

Sunglasses case

2007-09-24T11:11:00.000-05:00

New Sunglasses calls for a new sunglasses case. I just whipped this one up- it's not perfect but it works for me!

Let's get real Monday- my town

2007-09-24T08:48:00.000-05:00

Although I am fairly new to my town, I have already realized a few good and bad points.

Bad points...

We have to go to the next town for inexpensive grocery shopping. Even Econo Foods is expensive here.

There aren't any craft stores, Ben Frankiln closed a few months after we moved here.

There aren't many good restaurants.

Good points....

We have a wonderful farmers market although due to winter it only lasts about 4 months.

We have a great movie theater, movies are only $3 (first run) and treats half off too!

We have beautiful rolling green hills...

And splashes of red..

To see more "my towns" click here...

Crafty Day 2

2007-09-20T14:05:00.000-05:00

I have had a very busy couple days... all my projects piled up waiting to get my machine back and now that I have, I've been very busy!

Quilt for baby logan...Coffee cozy.... Been basting.... bib for baby logan...

My machine is back!

2007-09-18T20:43:00.000-05:00

I am so excited I finally got my sewing machine back today. It works so well now. I made a coffee cozy, finished a bib and started some chair pockets for my son's class.

feeling down

2007-09-13T19:00:00.000-05:00

I have been feeling down the last few days. My routine has changed a lot with M2 in school. I miss my friends down south and I'm feeling a little lost without them. I had a social life down there. And although I love being up north near my family, and I am slowly making new friends- it is just hard. I've been laying around, tired, and I've been having headaches. But I think I need to get my quilt going and find some "purpose" during the day.

One lift I had this evening was the beautiful autumn sky. Some thing about it is just different, the clouds were beautiful...

Coffee Cozy Pattern

2007-09-13T08:17:00.000-05:00

A few of you have asked for the coffee cozy pattern. But unfortunately, we winged it! We used a to-go coffee cup and made our own pattern. But you could also try to use the cardboard ones at Starbucks for a pattern. I'd add a little length though.

Craft Day

2007-09-12T22:04:00.000-05:00

I had a fun crafting day with Amanda today. We made some coffee cozies, and I started on a bib. The hard part is entertaining the kids without constantly feeding them! It never fails, the day you want to spend naptime sitting around the house crafting naptime is short and the days you want naptime to be short so you can get out of the house, they sleep for 3 hours!

New Fabric : )

2007-09-10T19:04:00.000-05:00

I got some new fabric today! I am so excited... I plan to make some bibs, coffee cozies, and a baby quilt.

So I am anxiously awaiting my sewing machine. It's in the shop- it has been there since Labor Day. : (

Funky Quilt

2007-09-06T14:36:00.000-05:00

I have finally started my new quilt with the help of amandajean - my idol! I can only hope it will turn out as beautiful as all of hers.

I am really excited about it because it will be all of my favorite colors and hopefully someday my daughter will want to use it on her bed someday!

Z is for....

2007-08-30T13:36:00.001-05:00

Zippers

zigzags

y is for...

2007-08-30T13:35:00.000-05:00

Yarn

X is for...

2007-08-30T13:31:00.001-05:00

xaiver

the guy who made cabbage patch kids- i had 3

W is for ....

2007-08-30T13:30:00.000-05:00

Watermelon
my favorite summer treat!

V is for...

2007-08-30T13:28:00.000-05:00

Veronica Mars
this is my current favorite show

Vases
i love to fill vases all over the house with flowers

U is for...

2007-08-30T13:26:00.000-05:00

Umbrella
i have one umbrella left from my wedding, it rained that day and our ceremony was outside at a bandstand

T is for...

2007-08-30T13:25:00.000-05:00

Time
time with my kids, my husband, my family, my friends, myself

Treasures
i love to keep treasures from my past, my family's past

S is for...

2007-08-30T13:23:00.000-05:00

Stamping
i love to stamp cards, scrapbooks anything

Scraps
scrap paper, scrap fabrics, scrap ribbon

R is for...

2007-08-30T13:21:00.000-05:00

Reading

Rain...
i love the sound of rain on the rooftop

Q is for...

2007-08-30T13:19:00.000-05:00

Quilts
i don't have many yet, but i will

Quaint little towns
this is self explanatory

P is for...

2007-08-30T13:15:00.000-05:00

Pink

my favorite color

Polka Dots

Park

i love taking the kids to the park- it where i meet my most crafty friends (amandajean): )

O is for...

2007-08-30T13:13:00.000-05:00

Oranges
i love oranges. when i was pregnant i loved orange soda, but not so much anymore.

Orange
it's one of those colors i like on and off.

N is for...

2007-08-26T20:14:00.000-05:00

Naps

especially on a rainy day

Nectarines

i've always preferred these to peaches, peaches are too fuzzy

Nieces and Nephews

good thing too because I have 18 of them (that includes "greats")

Necklaces

i am such a sucker when it comes to jewelry parties

M is for...

2007-08-22T19:39:00.000-05:00

M
my wonderful husband! we havebeen married for 10 years. he is also a great father.

M2

my little guy- i can't believe he is starting kindergarten in a week and a half!

Movies
almost all movies

Music
even more so since I met my husband- he is very musical!

Markers
i love all things arts & crafts

L is for...

2007-08-22T11:48:00.000-05:00

Laughing
laughing is a great way to calm the spirit

Lemonade
it is the perfect summer treat : )

K is for...

2007-08-22T11:34:00.000-05:00

Krispy Kremes

i love these donuts

J is for...

2007-08-21T20:47:00.001-05:00

Jean
my wonderful mom

Jeans
i love to wear jeans!

I is for...

2007-08-21T20:47:00.000-05:00

ICE CREAM!
a family favorite

Ice
crushed, and in icicles

H is for...

2007-08-20T20:55:00.000-05:00

Happiness

Halloween

i love to dress up for halloween

Handmade

i love all things handmade!

G is for...

2007-08-20T20:49:00.000-05:00

Generations

i love when things are passed down through generations

Guitar

my husband plays well- i hope to learn someday

Games

board games are a family tradition

F is for...

2007-08-20T12:08:00.000-05:00

Friends...

old and new

Family...

i moved here to be closer to mine

Faith...

Frogs...

isn't he cute?

Fabric...

i am sort of lacking in this department but wish i had more

i am totally lovin' these Michael Miller prints

E is for...

2007-08-20T10:48:00.001-05:00

E

my little e

Exercise
it's a love hate relationship

Embroidery

D is for...

2007-08-20T09:53:00.000-05:00

Dogs
lexie, skye, hans, jedi, lola, dexter, lucky, thor, bec, buddy
and those are just the ones in the family

Decorating
i love to decorate which is why i also sell Southern Living at Home

Daughter
e is so much fun- i really hope she will be a girly girl

Dresses
i love dressing up!

Dancing
this is such a good way to express yourself and get all those "ya-ya's" out!

C is for...

2007-08-19T22:51:00.000-05:00

Crafts
of course!

Candles

Coffee
i cannot survive without coffee!

Campfire
i love to go camping and sit around the campfire with family and friends and reminisce

Chocolate
yummy!

Creating

Cards

B is for...

2007-08-19T22:43:00.000-05:00

Babies

Blogging

Books
i love to read books

Beach
i love the beach- any beach but especially warm beaches

Barns
i never realized how comforting they were until i came back to them

Baking
i love baking- i just baked banana bread tonight!

very late in the game- A

2007-08-19T22:10:00.000-05:00

Alfred

my wonderful Dad

amandajean

my friend in a new town

Airplanes

I love to fly and in a former life I was a flight attendant for 10 years

Apples

especially green ones that taste great with salt

Autumn

You got me....

2007-08-19T21:06:00.000-05:00

Well, I guess I am finally caving. I have been addicted to blogging ever since amandajean came into my life. It definitely keeps things interesting... I hope I can keep it up : )