Butterfly Baby Place

Thank Goodness It's Friday!!!!!

2012-01-27T11:45:00.000-05:00

I am so thankful that it's {almost} the weekend. Not because I necessarily get a break from work during the weekend, but who doesn't love Friday?? I think the presence of another adult in the house for two.straight.days. helps a lot. Those are the best times to disappear into my studio to get some serious work done without interruption!!! Not that kids interrupt. ;)

But since it's not quite the weekend, I'm busy working on a custom. Zebra stripes, ruffles, hot pink, and Minnie Mouse! What's not to love?!

What are your weekend plans??

Who Knew Rolled Flowers Were So Fun???

2012-01-13T09:00:00.000-05:00

I rarely take time to do new crafts because my wonderful customers keep me busy! :) But I'm really having a blast creating new projects just so I can use rolled fabric flowers (see my earlier post here). I feel like a craft explosion is about to happen in my house! There are so many ideas I've had locked away. I've been waiting on time to pursue them and well, time is never just going to happen. I've been in a crafting rut, so to speak, since I started getting busy over a year ago. But I've realized that creating NEW things makes it fun and much less "work." So here's to less work and some new, exciting projects!!!

I have had this fabric in my stash for over a year, just waiting for something to be made out of it. It was a leftover piece from a custom order and I could never figure out what to do with the 15 inches I had left.

But the rolled flowers kind of tie the whole thing together and I absolutely love it!

A Little Crafty: Rolled Fabric Flower

2012-01-10T11:09:00.000-05:00

I have a ton of fabric scraps. I do sell them occasionally but most of the time, it looks like a fabric fairy threw up in my scrap box. I've been searching all over the place for a way to get more hours in the day to DO something with my scraps. Surprisingly, no good tutorial in the world could help me stretch time by even an hour..... So what's a girl to do with a ton of fabric scraps and hardly any free time?

Today that little bit of time turned into a rolled fabric flower. It took me ten minutes to make one. Well, I did a practice one first, unraveled it because it sucked, and then tried again with prettier fabric! This whole entire process was made all the less stressful because of the fabulous tutorial I found over at My Sparkle! She gives great detailed photos and concise directions. It made it super easy, even for a timeless, stressed momma like me!!!

All I needed was a one inch strip of fabric (I used one that was 42" long for a finished flower 1.5" in diameter), my fingers, and a little fabric glue. I'm a big fan of Fabri-Tac. :)

So easy and really, really cute! Now I just need to make more and put them on something! A tank top, a headband, a book cover, a Starbucks coffee sleeve! The possibilities are endless. :)

Get By With A Little Help From Your Team!

2012-01-08T20:10:00.000-05:00

No and I'm not talking about your football team... although I am watching! ;) I'm talking about the EtsyKids team! It's been forever and a day since I've updated my blog. I'm so sorry, loyal followers, that you've been so neglected! I thought that a good kick off to the reposting would be a tribute to a few EtsyKids team members! What is the EtsyKids team, you may ask? They are a fantabulous group of creative hand makers who make items that are geared towards... come on! You can guess this!! Kids! ;) If you want to see all kinds of amazing items, be sure to click on the link to see the awesome shopping guides! For all you bloggies, check out the EtsyKids Blog, too!

This particular post has all team member items but it's geared towards -YOU, moms! Let me tell you why!!

Because it's true...

Because I personally would not get through the day without a cup of Joe.. or whatever else you might decide to put in your so-glad-I-thought-of-it-ahead-of-time concealed container..

Because it's quiet and mommy's headache is bad enough..

And just because that tired mommy needs her rest in order to have enough patience for tomorrow..

We Have A Winner!

2011-05-09T08:28:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to Mom's Just Wana Have Fun!!! You have won the giveaway!!!! Email me at butterflybabyplace@gmail.com to claim your prize!

Even if you didn't win, use code MOMROCKS for a 15% discount at my regular store!!!

Happy Mother's Day (it's a giveaway)!!!

2011-05-07T08:24:00.002-04:00

In honor of Mother's Day, I'm giving away a $25 GC to my shop!

To enter, just tell me your favorite thing about being a mom!!

Follow my blog for an extra entry! LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT if you do this!

Winner will be selected on Monday!

Even if you don't win, use code MOMROCKS for a 15% discount at my regular store!!!

Grace

2011-05-01T14:07:00.001-04:00

I normally don't mix religion and my work, although I am a Christian. I was hesitant to post this on my blog because I didn't know how people would react. A verse from Matthew came to mind...

Matthew 10:32 Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. 33 But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven.

I'm not sure why I felt the need to post this today, but maybe it will touch just one of you, reading this today.

There once was a man named George Thomas, pastor in a small New England town. One Easter Sunday morning he came to the Church carrying a rusty, bent, old bird cage, and set it by the pulpit. Eyebrows were raised and, as if in response, Pastor Thomas began to speak....

"I was walking through town yesterday when I saw a young boy coming toward me swinging this bird cage.. On the bottom of the cage were three little wild birds, shivering with cold and fright.

I stopped the lad and asked, "What do you have there, son?"

"Just some old birds," came the reply.

"What are you going to do with them?" I asked.

"Take 'em home and have fun with 'em," he answered. "I'm gonna tease 'em and pull out their feathers to make 'em fight. I'm gonna have a real good time."

"But you'll get tired of those birds sooner or later. What will you do then?"

"Oh, I got some cats," said the little boy. "They like birds. I'll take 'em to them."

The pastor was silent for a moment. "How much do you want for those birds, son?"

"Huh?? !!! Why, you don't want them birds, mister.

They're just plain old field birds. They don't sing. They ain't even pretty!"

"How much?" the pastor asked again.

The boy sized up the pastor as if he were crazy and said, "$10?"

The pastor reached in his pocket and took out a ten dollar bill. He placed it in the boy's hand. In a flash, the boy was gone. The pastor picked up the cage and gently carried it to the end of the alley where there was a tree and a grassy spot. Setting the cage down, he opened the door, and by softly tapping the bars persuaded the birds out, setting them free. Well, that explained the empty bird cage on the pulpit, and then the pastor began to tell this story:

One day Satan and Jesus were having a conversation. Satan had just come from the Garden of Eden, and he was gloating and boasting. "Yes, sir, I just caught a world full of people down there. Set me a trap, used bait I knew they couldn't resist. Got 'em all!"

"What are you going to do with them?" Jesus asked.

Satan replied, "Oh, I'm gonna have fun! I'm gonna teach them how to marry and divorce each other, how to hate and abuse each other, how to drink and smoke and curse. I'm gonna teach them how to invent guns and bombs and kill each other. I'm really gonna have fun!"

"And what will you do when you are done with them?"

Jesus asked. "Oh, I'll kill 'em," Satan glared proudly.

"How much do you want for them?" Jesus asked.

"Oh, you don't want those people. They ain't no good. Why, you'll take them and they'll just hate you. They'll spit on you, curse you and kill you. You don't want those people!!"

"How much? He asked again.

Satan looked at Jesus and sneered, "All your blood, tears and your life."

Jesus said, "DONE!" Then He paid the price.

An awesome giveaway at Natural Mommie!

2011-05-01T09:49:00.000-04:00

There's always a great giveaway or blog post on Natural Mommie, but this is one I really, really want to win!

If you haven't heard about it already, allow me to introduce to you, Coola Skincare. Be fresh and tan without being red. ;) I like my tan as well as the next lady, but let me tell you... the peeling shoulders I embarrassed myself with last week are not the way to go. Typically I don't burn... I am pretty good about using sunscreen, but even I thought I was immune to the sun's powerful rays. Did I mention that skin cancer runs in my family? Yes, it does. So when I get a sunburn, it's like writing down the steps to cancer in a journal.

And it's stupid. There I said it.

It's stupid.

Do I need to say it again? If you're reading this with your own early spring sunburn, I think it already reiterated itself in your head.

So anyway, enter the giveaway and save yourself more pain and peeling. I can't wait to try it!

Helping Alabama

2011-04-30T07:33:00.003-04:00

On 4/30 (today) I am donating 100% of all sales to Alabama relief!

http://www.butterflybabyplace.com/

I hope some of you will also consider giving blood this week to help out the hundreds of injured people down there! I saw the first video clips this morning and towns are just destroyed. It's awful. I really feel a calling on my heart to do something!

Wednesday Feature of the Week - My Little Pixies

2011-04-28T08:49:00.004-04:00

Today I'm featuring a shop that I've really admired for a while. My Little Pixies' hair bows and headbands are just darling! She's also a member of the Etsy Kids Team, which is how I found her in the first place! Take a look at just a few of the adorable creations she has in her store!

Because Elizabeth totally rocks, she's even offering a discount code for you all!!!! Use code butterflybaby for 10% off your purchase here.

One of my daughter's favorites of all time (that I must order for her)...

You can order these darling, little butterflies as a headband or as a hair clip.

I absolutely adore these felt flowers! They are so sweet without being overpowering!

Have a wonderful Wednesday!!!

Just a few new items

2011-04-27T09:19:00.001-04:00

Which is your favorite?

My favorite time of year!!!

2011-04-26T08:46:00.004-04:00

I am so glad that spring has finally decided to come around the corner, although it's been more like a lion than a lamb. Just this week we've had some really beautiful days (accompanied by really beautiful sunburns on yours truly) and I'm totally soaking it up! I took a short break over Easter to just get some R&R and spend some really great, quality time with my family! We got our garden started, which is just SO exciting for me!!! I love being able to go out there and grab what I need! We have all of our cold-weather veggies in.

My baby swiss chard, broccoli (2 varieties), lettuce, spinach, oregano, and asparagas!!! Apparently with the asparagas, you're not supposed to pick it the first year so that you'll have more the following year. I guess if you pick it the first year you plant it, the only crop that will come up next year are the stalks you did not pick the previous year. So hopefully this way, we'll have a great crop next year. Although I may have to pick just one! ;)

While at the nursery, I picked up some pansies for my flower boxes. I must admit that last year, I was pretty lazy at the end of the year. I never cleaned out the boxes. I just left all the dirt and all of the drying flowers in there. Omgosh I'm embarrassed to admit that. LOL! So Brett dug them out from under our deck and put them on the holders this year, dirt and dead plants still in there. That's more embarrassing, but I must admit I didn't even notice that he'd done it. He told me that we had pansies sprouting. I thought he was crazy because they're an annual flower and we needed to plant more. Well wouldn't you know that all of the flowers had gone to seed and because we'd left them in the boxes, they started growing again! I have about 20 plants sprouting now! Luckily I had only bought 2 6-packs at the nursery, so I'll need to use them elsewhere.

You see friends, sometimes laziness really does pay off! However, I'd really rather call it lack of time. Yes, that's what we're going say instead! Sounds much better.

Since the weather has been so beautiful, I decided to tackle a diy project. My lovely neighbor gave me some small shelves that she needed to get rid of (yes I took some garbage, than you very much). The size is just perfect to store all of the packaged clothing that is ready to ship! I have some many small things and it would really neaten (not really a verb???) up my work space. They were originally white, but I decided to paint them a Robin's egg blue and then cover the backs with fabric. Luckily, I had some handy little helpers to do some of the dirty work... and let me tell you, with all the rain we've gotten, my littlest helper sure was DIRTY!

Handy Helper #1:

Handy Helper #2:

Handy Helper #3 who had more fun playing in the mud than in the paint:

I'll be posting pics of the whole project as soon as it's finished... which it's not... because I..... ran out of time. :P

It's so bright and sunny here!

2011-03-18T10:13:00.003-04:00

The weather is getting warmer and I absolutely love it! Despite the fact that this warm weather means that icky, hairy spiders are crawling on my screens (and I'm refusing to open my windows because of it), I'm excited for summer! My kids are already talking about going to the pool (practically a daily question... "Hey mom, can we go to the pool yet???") and I'm getting ready to sign them up for swimming lessons at the Y. I just honestly can't believe it's already the middle of March already! Where did the year go? I guess that's what happens when you're busy!

And boy have I been busy! I released my entire spring line in January and had to give a {major} pat on the back to myself because I am a total procrastinator! I started looking at fabric lines in October. Of course, now I've set this precedent for myself of being on top of things...... I'll let you know how that holds up!!! So anyway, I'm doing a lot of gabbing, so I'll leave you with one of my favorite sets for this year! It's bright and cheery and just screams SPRING (minus the spiders)!!!!

Love Day Giveaway

2011-02-15T20:38:00.005-05:00

GIVEAWAY CLOSED

In honor of Valentine's Day, I'm going to show all of my amazing fans some love!! :) One winner it takes all!

FIRST is a $50 gift certificate to Butterfly Baby Place. Here you'll find a great variety of boutique pillowcase dresses, modern peasant dresses, sibling sets, and boy's lounge sets. I just released my spring line and I'm adding more this week, so come and check it out!

SECOND is a My Best Friend Shirt from My Own Threads!! The style of these shirts is totally unique and really adorable. Quality from start to finish with American Apparel t-shirts, designer fabrics and swarovski crystals for the eyes! My daughter actually has one of these shirts and I was incredibly impressed with the attention to detail and quality of these items!!!

THIRD is a $15 gift certificate to Hailey's Hair Clips. They specialize in handmade clippies, bows, headbands, and much more. I've even seen made to match bows for Gymboree lines that are really sweet! You can have bows made to match pretty much any item you'd like with fantastic customer service to boot!

FOURTH is a $25 Gift Certificate to Baby K Designs! I actually won one of these headbands and I can't say enough about the quality! My daughter never wants to take it off and it actually stays in her hair, which is quite a feat! You can tell that time is taken to make a great product with high quality materials!

FIFTH is a beautiful Lovin' Pink headband from Kriner's Creations! Layers of bright pink satin and tulle with a rhinestone heart center to create a beautiful accessory for any girl. Each petal is handcut and heat singed for an authentic flower that will never fray. Headband and lovin' pink accessory are on snaps that are easily interchanged with any other snap accessories!

SIXTH is an adorable Sock Monkey Hat from Karly's Kloset! This shop is just packed with adorable goodies for your little ones! She offers darling headbands as well as crocheted hats and diaper cover sets that will make you swoon.

●•۰ SO HOW DO YOU WIN?!?! ۰•●

PLEASE LEAVE ONE, SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH STEP YOU COMPLETE. IF YOU PUT ALL YOUR ENTRIES IN ONE POST, IT WILL ONLY COUNT AS ONE ENTRY.

***ONE*** Become a fan of Butterfly Baby Place and leave a shout out on her wall! Then come back here to the blog and leave a comment that you became a new fan.

***TWO*** Become a fan of My Own Threads and leave a shout out on her wall! Then come back here to the blog and leave a comment that you became a new fan.

***THREE*** Become a fan of Hailey's Hair Clips and leave a shout out on her wall! Then come back here to the blog and leave a comment that you became a new fan.

***FOUR*** Become a fan of Baby K Designs and leave a shout out on her wall! Then come back here to the blog and leave a comment that you became a new fan.

***FIVE*** Become a fan of Kriner's Creations and leave a shout out on her wall! Then come back here to the blog and leave a comment that you became a new fan.

***SIX*** Become a fan of Karly's Kloset and leave a shout out on her wall! Then come back here to the blog and leave a comment that you became a new fan.

***SEVEN*** Copy and paste the post below on your wall and come back here and comment with a link to your post. If the person who references you is drawn as the winner, they'll win all of the above, but YOU WILL WIN a $20 gift certificate to Butterfly Baby Place for telling your friends!!!!!!!!

COPY & PASTE: Check out this awesome giveaway at Butterfly Baby Place's Blog! Please make sure to leave my name as your referral with each comment you leave!! http://butterflybabyplace.blogspot.com/2011/02/love-day-giveaway.html

***The contest starts now and will end on Friday, February 18th @ 6pm EST. The lucky winner will be chosen by a random number generator and a comment will be posted when the winner is announced. Thanks so much for playing!***

Spring Line is under way!!!

2011-01-21T20:14:00.002-05:00

I've had SO much fun choosing fabrics for my 2011 spring line. :D You would not believe how hard it is to narrow things down... and I'm sure that I'll be adding even more to my stock pile before February (like the new Riley Blake All Stars 2 line that I've been oogling over....) My line will also include many more sibling sets as well as a few more boy's sets!! Excited!

So.. sneak peaks!

Starting the New Year off with a Bang!

2011-01-01T17:24:00.003-05:00

I've decided to do a monthly giveaway on my Facebook fan page. What's better than kicking off the New Year with some free "cash" to spend?? I hope everyone has fun with these!!!

My Easter sales are picking up already (yay!!) so this would be the perfect time to get yours if you win!!!

Merry Christmas!!

2010-12-23T10:55:00.003-05:00

It's that time of year where most people wish for snow, love to see twinkling lights, and are busy with the hustle and bustle of the season! I love this time of year... it's my most favorite Holiday. Along with Christmas usually come a host of new things for me, special requests, cookies, my back aching from wrapping the all.too.many.presents. that I bought my children, cookies... did I mention cookies? But I love it!!!! Even the back ache {and the cookies}. Officially, I'm on "vacation" from my shop, but I can't stop thinking about my machine and more importantly, my spring line!

Yesterday I brought all of my fabrics down from my closet that I'm planning on using and I quickly see my vacation disappearing. New on the agenda this year are some fun prints, but I also intend to introduce some new designs. I love pairing fabrics together, but I really want to try to create some new items. I have no idea WHAT yet, but it'll come to me. I'm excited just at the prospect! So hopefully in January I'll have some awesome things to unveil! But I have been doing a few new things for clients, which I'll share with you now...

I hope everyone has a Joyous season! And cookies... I wish you all cookies!!! ;)

So perfect for summer, without the sticky mess! I can't wait to make more fabric combinations with this set!

So excited to introduce capes to my Spring 2011 line!

Just in case your little sweetie DOES get a case of lollipop fever, I've got that covered! This can be made in any of my fabrics, too... the possibilities are endless. Super soft chenille on one side, fun and funky on the other!

I have a whole slew of plans for new sibling sets as well, so this one is just the beginning! The shirt can be sky blue or white, whichever you'd prefer! I can't wait to debut my other plans for these sets in January!

Have a wonderful Holiday (and cookies...)!!!!

Most Exciting News!!!

2010-10-02T23:22:00.002-04:00

I made it to the front page!!!!!!!! I've been an alternate before, but never a full-fledged feature. I was so excited when the curator emailed me that I think I may have peed a little. I'm only kidding. I think. No really. Totally KIDDING!

{Seriously!}

PRETTY!

I check www.craftcult.com a few times a day to see what my shop traffic is like and it's such a treat to see a notice that I was featured.

Slowly But Surely

2010-09-27T20:02:00.002-04:00

I've been trying for months to get items out the door for some professional photographs. I am not moving fast enough, that's for sure! I've been so busy making items for all of my wonderful clients {heart} that I just haven't taken the time to do them. Well, I'm super lucky that my clients have sent me some anyway!!! Take a look at these gorgeous photos! I love them and it's giving me motivation to make time for more items!

Happy September!

2010-09-16T18:51:00.002-04:00

September has been quite the busy month around here! I'm really excited to be introducing my fall and winter products as well as a few holiday items! I'm also really happy to announce that I've opened my new website {Butterfly Baby Place of course} and I LOVE it! It is so fun having an actual "store" and my recent customers have found it to be very user friendly!!!

Some new products:

The first product in my new corduroy line!!! So warm and cozy for the coming cooler months!

A fall outfit that is sure to please any picky princess!!

Halloween anyone?

A little bit of Christmas!

Sneak peak of something I think you'll like!!

2010-08-29T08:37:00.001-04:00

What do you think?

A Humongous Giveaway!!!

2010-08-23T22:29:00.020-04:00

THIS GIVEAWAY HAS ENDED. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR PARTICIPATING!! IF YOU MISSED IT, TUNE IN NEXT TIME!

I am going to make you excited. Are you ready? I've teamed up with FOUR amazing artisans to bring you the biggest giveaway this blog has ever seen!!! Winner takes all! If you want details (you know you do), keep on reading. :D

FIRST is a $30 gift certificate to Butterfly Baby Place. Here you'll find a great variety of children's clothing and accessories like bibs, dresses, and boy's lounge sets. New lines being added for fall, Halloween, and Christmas!

SECOND is a $25 gift certificate to Karly's Kloset, which is just packed with adorable goodies for your little ones! She offers darling headbands as well as crocheted hats and diaper cover sets that will make you swoon.

THIRD is your choice of THREE leg warmers from Knotty Baby Wear!!! Amber literally has hundreds of pairs and colors to choose from, which means a style for every occasion. From easy diaper changes to potty training, these are fantastic for children of all ages!!

FOURTH is a custom order tee from Oh Fiddlesticks! This duo of moms have come up with an ingenious idea for little kids clothing that is so unique and awesome that every little one needs one! Even star kiddos wear their clothing!! The shirts are designed around fun, descriptive compound words that require a bit of brain power to crack the codes! Winner gets to select size, color, and fabrics for bow-tie and 'stache collection!

FIFTH is a Lilac Lulu Belle Flower and Stretch Headband from Baby K Designs! I actually won one of these headbands a few weeks ago and I can't say enough about the quality! My daughter never wants to take it off and it actually stays in her hair, which is quite a feat!

●•۰ SO HOW DO YOU WIN?!?! ۰•●

IF YOU ARE ALREADY A FAN OF ONE OF THE FIVE PAGES BELOW, YOU DO NOT NEED TO LEAVE A SHOUT OUT ON THEIR WALL BUT LEAVE A COMMENT BELOW SAYING YOU ARE A FAN!!!

***ONE*** Become a fan of Butterfly Baby Place and leave a shout out on her wall! Then come back here to the blog and leave a comment that you became a new fan.

***TWO*** Become a fan of Karly's Kloset and leave a shout out on her wall! Then come back here to the blog and leave a comment that you became a new fan.

***THREE*** Become a fan of Knotty Baby Wear and leave a shout out on her wall! Then come back here to the blog and leave a comment that you became a new fan.

***FOUR*** Become a fan of Oh Fiddlesticks! and leave a shout out on her wall! Then come back here to the blog and leave a comment that you became a new fan.

***FIVE*** Become a fan of Baby K Designs and leave a shout out on her wall! Then come back here to the blog and leave a comment that you became a new fan.

***SIX*** Copy and paste the post below on your wall and come back here and comment with a link to your post. If the person who references you is drawn as the winner, they'll win all of the above, but YOU WILL WIN a $20 gift certificate to Butterfly Baby Place for telling your friends!!!!!!!!

COPY & PASTE: Check out this awesome giveaway at Butterfly Baby Place's Blog! Please make sure to leave my name as your referral with each comment you leave!! http://butterflybabyplace.blogspot.com/2010/08/humongous-giveaway.html

***The contest starts now and will end on Friday, August 27th @ 6pm EST. The lucky winner will be chosen by a random number generator and a comment will be posted when the winner is announced. Thanks so much for playing!***

**EXTRA EXTRA EXTRA** If we happen to reach 800 entries, I will be drawing a second gift certificate for $30 for Butterfly Baby Place!!! That gives you three chances to win: Name drawn, friend referral, we reach 800 entries!

I curated my very first treasury!!!

2010-08-13T22:32:00.004-04:00

I can't believe I've been creating on Etsy for two years and this is my first time creating a treasury! It took me an hour, but it was so much fun! I just love all things girly and frilly and that's what this treasury was based on. So just Simply Cherish it! ;)

We Have a WINNER!!

2010-08-01T14:33:00.002-04:00

I'm so excited to finally announce the winner of this giveaway! Thank you sooooo much to all who entered and for those that didn't win - BEST OF LUCK next time!!!!!!!!!!!!!

*drumroll please*

The winner is the very first person to enter: Picture This Photography by Dawn!!!!!!!!!!!! Congratulations!!! Have a fantastic week everybody!

FANTABULOUS BLOG GIVEAWAY!!!!

2010-07-27T07:14:00.006-04:00

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED

One lucky winner is going to win some amazing products! I've teamed up with one of my very best friends to bring you a few awesome prizes! So how can you win it all?? Keep on reading, folks! Best of luck and thank you so much for participating!!!!

FIRST up is a prize pack from Discover Arbonne with Tracy Summers!! Arbonne's Baby Care Formula is made especially for baby's sensitive skin. This prize pack includes a full size Hair & Body Wash as well as a full size Body Lotion.

* Botanically based

* Hypoallergenic

* Never tested on animals

* No animal by-products

* Ecocertified

* Vegan

SECOND is $50 Gift Certificate to Butterfly Baby Place! I promised that you could choose your own prize and now you can! The lucky winner will get to choose from pillowcase dresses, peasant dresses, boy's lounge sets, neck tie shirts, aprons, and more!

●•۰ SO HOW DO YOU WIN?!?! ۰•●

If you are already a fan of one of our pages, you don't have to leave a shout out... unless you want to!! ;) But PLEASE leave a comment below stating that you are already a fan!!!!!!!!!

***ONE*** Become a fan of Discover Arbonne with Tracy Summers and leave a shout out on her wall! Then come back here and leave a comment that you became a new fan.

***TWO*** Become a fan of Butterfly Baby Place and leave a shout out on her wall! Then come back here and leave a comment!

***THREE*** Follow my blog and leave a comment!

***FOUR*** Copy and paste the post below on your wall and come back here and comment with a link to your post. If the person who references you is drawn as the winner, they'll win all of the above, but YOU WILL WIN a $20 gift certificate to Butterfly Baby Place for telling your friends!!!!!!!!

COPY & PASTE: Check out this awesome giveaway at Butterfly Baby Place's Blog! Please make sure to leave my name as your referral with each comment you leave!! http://butterflybabyplace.blogspot.com/2010/07/fantabulous-blog-giveaway.html

***The contest starts now and will end on Friday, July 30th @ 12pm noon EST. The lucky winner will be chosen by a random number generator and a comment will be posted when the winner is announced. Thanks so much for playing!***

I've been neglecting you!!

2010-07-22T08:31:00.002-04:00

My friends, my sweet blog friends, you've been neglected. It has been over a month since my last blog post and I apologize sincerely. Would you believe me if I told you I missed you? In a very platonic, internet-bloggerific way? Well I did. I honestly enjoy blogging and I'm excited to get back to it. I hope this post finds you well. We have had quite a bit of a rough summer, but I'm back to sewing and creating. I've got a few new things to post about in this article. I'm working on more newness today. Potentially Halloween newness! I need to work on some more Christmas items as well. Yes, I did say Christmas. You know, I was at the mall a couple of weeks ago and Hallmark already had Christmas Ornaments on front display. I about had a heart attack, thinking that it was September and that I'd missed months of my life, but no, Hallmark is just crazy.......

So anyway, enjoy some of my new creations. Tell me how you are! Are you having a good summer? Are you tan (I'm not, although I wish otherwise)?

I usually do peasant dresses with elastic in the sleeve casing, but I really love the look of them without.

I had to give you just one fall goodie!!

Something Patriotic!

2010-06-12T09:32:00.002-04:00

Just two items in time for the Fourth of July!

I've Been Working Hard!

2010-06-03T22:22:00.003-04:00

Between custom orders and fabric inspirations, I'm whipping up a few new items and I'm really excited about them!!! Had to share. :)

It's a HUGE Giveaway!!!

2010-05-26T09:47:00.003-04:00

This week, I've teamed up with Karly's Kloset and a bunch of other fantastic artists for one HUGE giveaway!!! To enter, just go to Karly's Kloset's Blog and check out it out!!!

You could win this and a bunch of other stuff!!!

Because I know you like my garden....

2010-05-21T09:06:00.002-04:00

We planted 11 tomato plants, 6 pepper plants, one pumpkin, two sunflower seed plants, and some herbs last night! We still have a few things to put in, but our seedlets aren't quite big enough yet.

Hardworking Hubby:

Hayden helping Daddy (in other words, telling Daddy how to do things..... oh three year old, how I love you...)

I harvested a ton of our swiss chard and spinach yesterday after I posted. It looks so empty in those rows now! The broccoli plants look gigantic.

Daddy apparently did something right!

Because if he didn't, this ornery kidlet would for sure call him on it...

Hayden didn't help most of the time. Both he and Ava were busy playing on the playset. We didn't come inside until 8:30 and the kids were so worn out that we didn't hear a peep out of them at bedtime. That's one of the things that I absolutely LOVE about summer. I can't wait until the pool is open! The kids have so much fun outside.

The Garden is Growing!

2010-05-20T14:03:00.002-04:00

Our garden has grown SO much since the last time I posted about it. We have been eating spinach and swiss chard like it's going out of style and our broccoli crowns are finally growing! It's so exciting to see something you planted producing something. By no means do I consider myself a green thumb, but this stuff is actually pretty easy! What's better? We're going to get some tomatoes and herbs tonight to plant.

It's almost as big as her!!!!

Our lovely onions!

I did spend about 30 minutes today picking out grass that grew in there over the weekend, but it's pretty low maintenance. Plus, Ava helped!

BROCCOLI!!!! Look at the itty bitty baby one!

I am making swiss chard enchiladas later this week! I'll post the result and pics when I've had the taste test!

A little eye candy for the weekend

2010-05-13T14:38:00.002-04:00

These are a few of my favorite things:

Giveaway Time: BIBS!!!

2010-05-03T21:33:00.008-04:00

Congratulations to Kenziesmom and Munchkin Things & Strings!!! You are the winners! Thanks to everyone for entering! :D

I must admit that I love a good giveaway! This is just a small one, but these are new things! I just created these today!! I hope you all like them. I forced (ahem, bribed) my children for some photos. They were paid in Cadbury Mini-Eggs (yes from Easter) when we were done. **They were eaten after the bibs came off, btw.**

●•۰ GIVEAWAY ۰•●

1 (one) Patchwork Bib in Amy Butler's Lotus Collection

~or~

1 (one) SuperKid Bib { or cape } in Michael Miller's Groovy Guitars

I am giving away both of these bibs, so that means TWO WINNERS! Don't you think that's extra exciting??? They are backed with ultrasoft, super absorbent terry cloth for those big messes. They both fasten with snaps so no little fingers can yank them off when you're not looking!

So how do you win??

●•۰ ENTRIES ۰•●

Please leave a NEW comment for each of these steps that you take (you must do the first one).

1. MANDATORY STEP: Leave me a link of your favorite item in my Etsy Shop in the comments section. :D { 1 entry }

●•۰ EXTRA ENTRIES ۰•●

2. Follow my blog. { 1 entry }

3. Fan me on Facebook. { 1 entry }

4. Buy something from my Etsy shop (does not apply to past purchases). { 10 entries }

5. Blog about this giveaway. { 2 entries }

6. Post about this giveaway on Facebook. { 2 entries }

Please leave your contact info in one of your comments so I can let you know you won!

The giveaway begins as soon as this blog post is live (5/3/10) and will end on 5/8/10. Don't forget to spread the word!! :)

The Homemade Greenhouse

2010-04-30T09:11:00.004-04:00

If you've been reading my blog, you know that I posted about a week ago about a really simple idea for a homemade greenhouse. If you have no idea what I'm talking about, you can go see it here. Brett and I took the simplest route possible - no holes drilled or anything. We just used one of the small containers we had in the basement and set the lid on top. No seriously, it was that easy. It's off center slightly for appropriate air flow, but my seedlings seem to love their new environment!

As you can see, my brilliant husband labeled everything so we actually know what seeds are what.... we made the mistake of not doing that last year. Oops.

In just a week, some of them are sprouting and looking healthy!

And just where will these cute little seedlings be going when they are ready? Our garden box, of course! Right now we have broccoli, swiss chard, spinach, garlic, and onions in there. Those were all raised at a local farm and were seeded for growth in temperatures of 40 degrees or higher. They are very hearty and are about 5 times the size that they were when we bought them!

I can't wait to eat some of this!!

My pretty flowers:

Shop Feature: Chic Baby Rose

2010-04-27T22:10:00.004-04:00

So incredibly unique! That was the first thought that went through my head when I saw these a.d.o.r.a.b.l.e. Petti Rompers by Chic Baby Rose. They are cute enough to give me baby fever just so I can buy one and oogle at it for hours. The coolest part about these Petti Rompers is that they are versatile! You can even tuck them down to use as bloomers. They would be absolutely perfect for newborn photos, as the precious baby above demonstrates. They are adorable on a toddler girl as well!!

I mean, seriously... Have you ever seen something so cute?

And not only does she have those adorable outfits, she also makes pettiskirts and hair accessories as well. And yes, I do realize that everything that I've posted about is either red or pink, but what can I say? They are precious!

Does a wood marker really work?

2010-04-27T13:53:00.005-04:00

Have you ever been shopping for picture frames? If you have, you know how expensive they are. I recently bought frames for my kid's bathroom and bedrooms. I've had artwork from Farmhouse Five for months, waiting to be framed. They are beautiful and were very reasonably priced... however, decent frames (for all 10 prints) are not so reasonably priced. Finally, I decided to bite the bullet and just buy them. So, off to Michael's I went to find some frames, wallet heavy in hand.

Now, let me just say that I have a really hard time passing up a bargain. So when I spotted nice frames on clearance for $1.49, I about jumped out of my pants. As I walked closer I noticed that they were all damaged! DRATS! But wait, what if I could fix them??? So off I marched to the marker section to find a wood marker. I was very skeptical, but I'm pleased with the results! So what did I do?

Materials:

Wood Finish Stain Marker in the closest match to your grain as possible

Paper Towel

Frames

Steps:

1) Remove marker from package and shake well.

2) Hold tip of marker to a piece of cardboard in order to coax the stain into the tip (about five seconds or so). Be sure to use a piece of cardboard or something thick so it won't leak onto your work surface.

3) Gently dab marker onto the damaged section of wood.

4) Use paper towel to dab any excess stain from wood.

5) Repeat steps 3 & 4 if necessary.

6) Air dry.

7) Enjoy your art!!

Artwork From:

Mini Photo Shoot Today

2010-04-25T13:00:00.002-04:00

I don't know if I should really classify this as a photo shoot since I did it and I'm no where near a professional, but I did it anyway. I made my daughter a pillowcase top/tunic to wear over jeans (or shorts/bloomers). I decided to put it on her today and try to get a few pictures of what it looks like as a top. I'm really pleased with the result. I wish I had cool photo editing software to make them look amazing, but they'll do for now! Ava is such a HAM. LOL!

Weekend Project

2010-04-22T13:56:00.003-04:00

This weekend, Brett (otherwise known as my dear husband) and I are going to build a mini greenhouse. I'm so excited about it!!! We have some seeds that are {trying} to sprout downstairs in our basement, by the window. But we think they'll fair better outside than they will in a basement, so we have a project.. A cheap project for those on a budget. Yes that's right, my friends, this greenhouse will be blissfully simple and easy on the wallet.

So do you want to know how to do this easy as pie project? Just click on the picture.

I'll post pictures when ours is all finished!

Brand new creations!

2010-04-20T10:04:00.005-04:00

I have been one busy momma! I'm not even close to being done with my work yet { does that ever happen? } but I had to show you some previews of things to come.

I can't believe it's taken me sooo long to finally complete a nursing cover for my shop, but I'm pleased with the way it turned out. Now I just need to decide what fabric to use next in order to list it in my shop. The fabric I made the following one in is discontinued, but was a custom request. I used up most of it making an order, but had to show you anyway!

I also created this dress for an old friend of mine. Her daughter is seven, so I'm nervous that she won't like it, but I'm pleased with how it turned out. I spent hours looking for the perfect fabric, only to finally find it in my stash. I hope she loves it! I really think the bow makes the dress!

Who won??

2010-04-18T08:54:00.002-04:00

The giveaway has ended and now it's time to announce the winner!! A few peeps put all their entries in one post, so I had to do a word spreadsheet. We had a total of 139 entries! Not too shabby for my first { of many } giveaways! Ok, time for the drumroll............

And who is lucky number 102????

Congratulations to CarrieW!!! I can't wait to see what dress you want for your precious little princess!!

Thank you to all who entered! Best of luck next time! :D

Giveaway Time!!

2010-04-13T19:08:00.011-04:00

**THIS GIVEAWAY HAS ENDED!! THANKS AND GOODLUCK TO ALL WHO ENTERED!**

Well my friends, I've reached 500 sales in my shop and that means it's time for a giveaway! I wouldn't have gotten there without each and every one of you supporting me, so it's my turn to show some appreciation.

●•۰ GIVEAWAY ۰•●

1 (one) Pillowcase Dress if you have a girl

~or~

1 (one) Boy's Tie Shirt if you have a boy

The lucky winner will be able to choose which they'd rather receive.

●•۰ ENTRIES ۰•●

Please leave a NEW comment for each of these steps that you take (you must do the first one).

1. MANDATORY STEP: Comment on this giveaway telling me what your favorite item is from Butterfly Baby Place's Shop OTHER than those on this blog post. Links are encouraged! I want to know what you like so I can make MORE!! :D { 1 entry }

●•۰ EXTRA ENTRIES ۰•●

2. Follow my blog. { 1 entry }

3. Follow me on Twitter. {1 entry }

4. Fan me on Facebook. { 1 entry }

5. Buy something from my Etsy shop (does not apply to past purchases). { 10 entries }

6. Blog about this giveaway. { 2 entries }

7. Tweet about this giveaway. { 2 entries }

8. Post about this giveaway on Facebook. { 2 entries }

When posting comments, please remember to leave your contact information in one of the posts so I know how to get in contact with you if you win. Winners will be chosen by using a random number generator. So the more you do, the better your odds of winning!

The giveaway begins as soon as this blog post is live (4/14/10) and will end on 4/18/10. Don't forget to spread the word, friends!! :)

Such a Beautiful Picture!!

2010-04-13T15:57:00.005-04:00

Someone just posted this photo on my facebook fan page (which you should join, by the way) and I had to share it here. I've just started considering getting professional pictures for my shop and this really helps my decision. Of course, with this picture, people may want the adorable bundle of baby more than they want the dress. She's a little too cute for words, don't you think? But the dress is a nice backdrop at any rate.

Just scroll a little and look to the right for a link to join the fan page. It'll be fun, I swear! ;)

One Fish, Two Fish, Look at This Treasury List!

2010-04-13T10:05:00.002-04:00

I think this is the most "fun" treasury I've been in so far. Such a cute theme! Dr. Seuss is just awesome and I'm honored to be among his fans. :D

Linky: http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=125641

Pretties:

10% Off All Ties

2010-04-02T10:05:00.002-04:00

Regularly $20, now $18.

No special occasion other than the fact that I think you're worth it. Right now in my shop, all ties (including ties in sets) are 10% off. Regularly $20, now $18.

Come.Shop.Be.Happy.

Sale ends 4/7/10 :)

Most Exciting Office Product EVER!!

2010-04-01T08:41:00.002-04:00

I had NO idea these were available and I'm practically quaking with excitement. How does a girl CHOOSE which ones to get? Because any good designer who works with Amy Butler MUST have Amy Butler office supplies. I'm seriously giddy here. This is ridiculous. I'm 27 years old and I'm giddy about file folders - yes you read that correctly!!!!

Well, time to drool.....

If you're anything like me, you're incredibly giddy now, too. (Imagine jumping up and down here.)

So if you like them and you want them, go here to buy them: http://www.velocityartanddesign.com/paper-goods-orderby-up-c-1611.html?all=true

Oh and of course, there is more than just file folders, which just makes this all that much better....

Go. Look. Drool. You'll thank me!!!!!!

Stars and Stripes Forever

2010-03-25T08:43:00.002-04:00

I think this shirt would be perfect for Memorial Day or the 4th of July. I actually made this for my son and when I showed it to him, he ran away. I usually take pictures of him in tie shirts if I can and he thought I was going to make him model. In order to get it on him (he's 3.5, by the way), I had to promise to put the camera away. So I never did get any pics of him in it, but I will next time. I'll have to be sneaky, but I'll do it. Once he realized that he wasn't going to break any child labor laws, he loved it.

Your Kids Will Love These Pancakes

2010-03-24T13:05:00.002-04:00

I love a good pancake. I especially love pancakes from IHOP!! Their butter pecan syrup is just like a slice of heaven to me. I've been searching for years to find a good homemade pancake recipe. Of course, just like many American families, Bisquick was the Saturday morning staple at our house. Good, quick, easy, done. I've tried a few homemade recipes in my day, but let's be honest: They were gross. One recipe I tried, my kids wouldn't even eat them and that's quite a statement for my piggies.

I'd all but given up on anything but Bisquick and Ihop. Then I found this recipe and heaven sang a little. Well, maybe only in my head, but I swear to you I heard the Hallelujah chorus. So delicious, moist, fluffy, and just fantabulicious!!

So, you just HAVE to try this recipe. Yes I'm telling you what to do because your life may not be complete without these pancakes. So do it (please??).

Temptation:

Recipe:

Ingredients

3/4 cup milk
2 tablespoons white vinegar
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons white sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg
2 tablespoons butter, melted
cooking spray
Directions

Combine milk with vinegar in a medium bowl and set aside for 5 minutes to "sour".
Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Whisk egg and butter into "soured" milk. Pour the flour mixture into the wet ingredients and whisk until lumps are gone.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat, and coat with cooking spray. Pour 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet, and cook until bubbles appear on the surface. Flip with a spatula, and cook until browned on the other side.

You'll be so glad you did!!

It's a Giveaway: Green Bags!!!

2010-03-22T20:59:00.008-04:00

Who doesn't love an awesome giveaway?! I know I do, which is why I'm sharing this one with you!

Check out the details:
http://www.sedilugreen.blogspot.com/

Why the eco friendly bags? Quite simple. We love the environment, as we're sure you do too. Saving the Earth is simple and everyone can pitch in. From using reusable baggies for lunches (potentially save 900+ baggies from going to the landfill with EACH EcoStuffer purchased!) to using reusable grocery sacks.

Simple things like this really go a long way! That's where SediluGreen comes in.

Promote your "Green-ness" with a triple stitched, food safe Eco Stuffer (TM) or a designer Grocery Satchel with reinforced straps, seams and sturdy bottom. Say it loud and say it proud! "I'm Green with style!"

Also, along with helping the environment, these bags are completely safe for you and your kiddos. CPSIA certified!

Did I mention the CUTENESS???

Ok so the giveaway!

You need to do two things: Tell her why you love spring and follow the blog! You could win one of two sets of EcoStuffers. You seriously can't go wrong, so go visit the blog, think about warm weather, and enter to win!!!!

GO!!! Why are you still reading??? ;)

I think I need some serious help

2010-03-19T21:29:00.002-04:00

This week has just been an insane week for us. My in-laws live in Kentucky and are trying to find a house near us (8 hours away). So, my mother in law has been staying with us since last Saturday, house hunting. So busy thing number one, a long visit from family. Also, Sunday was Ava's second birthday and her party is tomorrow, Saturday. So we are busy, busy, busy cleaning and shopping and cleaning and going crazy. Thing 2.

Thing 3, I'm crazy busy with making clothes (which is awesome, btw).

But do you know what happens when you add those three things up? You most certainly don't get four, in my world. Oh no, four would be a nice, even number. But that's not what happens to Jess. What happens to Jess is... well, just see for yourself.....

Even my thread can't escape the madness

*sigh* I need a maid... or more hours in the day.

Feature of the Week: Two Tutu Ladies

2010-03-13T20:27:00.005-05:00

This will be the first of what I hope to be many weekly blog features. This week's feature is Two Tutu Ladies. The owner of this adorable little shop is Kal. I've known Kal since we had our first borns and she does some really great work!

Kal's Etsy Store: http://www.etsy.com/shop/twotutuladies

Kal's Cuties:

Hop Hop Hop

2010-03-11T23:07:00.003-05:00

I got a custom request for this shirt a few weeks ago and I really wish I'd cranked it out sooner to list for Easter this year because it turned out so stinking cute!!!!! I love creating everything I do, but custom orders are just so much fun. I love it!

I'm dreaming of Blue Skies with this Treasury!!

2010-02-13T21:25:00.004-05:00

So excited to be featured in this treasury, created by OceanAvenueSilks!!! It's absolutely beautiful, too! I think it's one of my favorite treasuries ever and that's not just because I'm in it. Just a really gorgeous collection. It makes me so excited for spring and lots of blue skies. We've been covered by clouds and lots of snow for a while now - I'm ready for spring. This is great taste of just that!

Something for the Boys!!

2010-02-08T17:01:00.003-05:00

I'm really excited to be venturing more into shirts for my shop. I've been doing more girls shirts and I'm very proud to announce a new line of boys' items as well. I received a custom request for a necktie shirt to match one of my dresses. I have been contemplating this for a while, but that gave me motivation. I love being able to offer something for little guys. I have a little guy and he's going to have a wardrobe full by the time I'm done. I also plan on sketching some new designs in the next week or so for some upcoming Holidays as well as just for fun! Stay posted. :)

Boys Tie Section of my Shop:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/ButterflyBabyPlace?section_id=6745155

Valentine's Day SALE!!!

2010-02-03T23:14:00.002-05:00

Ooh it's that happy, lovey dovey time of year. As a thank you to all of my customers (both previous and yet to be), I'm offering a 10% off sale in my shop until February 14th, 2010. I am so grateful for every single person who has supported me in this venture and well, this is just a small token of my appreciation!

Here's to a wonderful 2010 for everyone!

A few new item photos

2010-02-02T16:10:00.002-05:00

I've been a busy little bee since Christmas trying to crank out some new items. Of course, not all of these are totally new, but it's nice to have pictures of certain things as a set. Also, I'm excited about some of the new shirts I've been creating. I haven't even had a chance to list these in my shop yet, but I hope to do so over the next couple of days. But I thought I'd give you all a sneak peak anyway!

Tis the Season

2009-12-23T15:26:00.002-05:00

For me to finally relax!!! All of my Christmas orders are officially done. I am completely caught up in my shop from the pregnancy and subsequent miscarriage and I am just READY to start a new year fresh, clear, and new. I hope everyone has a beautiful Christmas, full of merriment and wonderful people! A few pictures of al of my work this week. PHEW!

Sew.Much.

DONE!!!

Some seriously good food!

2009-12-23T10:53:00.003-05:00

I recently stumbled upon a blog called Simply Serra. I was searching for a good Peanut Blossom cookie recipe and found a site with that recipe and more. I am salivating at the thought of making all of the food she has blogged about and I thought I'd share some of it with you in the meantime. We're planning on making the stuffed mushrooms for Christmas Eve and the Peanut Blossoms TODAY! I'm hungry already. I'll let you know how it turns out!

http://www.myboyfrienddatedachef.com/

Get ready to drool!

Snow Day!!

2009-12-19T14:13:00.002-05:00

We live in Maryland and are currently in the path of a humongous snow storm, which is awesome. My 3yo son woke up this morning, looked out the window, and said, "I can't believe it! The snow is back!" So after breakfast, we dressed the kids and decided to venture out. It was already up to my knees and supposed to continue until tomorrow morning. And yes, those are plastic bags on my kids' hands. LOL! Neither of their gloves are waterproof enough for me (it was cold) so we pretended to be hillbillies for 40 minutes this morning. :)

I'm so excited

2009-12-13T12:05:00.003-05:00

It's back! It's back! It's back!!!!!!!

Months ago, I wrote about being disappointed because one of my absolute favorite prints was being discontinued. Well, it's been reprinted!!!! I can't even tell you how excited this makes me! I just relisted the dress in my shop. Alas, the joy will be over soon enough because it's only being reprinted once, but I'm still excited. So, back in my shop for a limited time: Morning Glory Linen!!

Tips That Could Save Your Life

2009-09-04T10:24:00.007-04:00

I just stumbled upon this really great website that gives great tips about keeping yourself safe when you're out and about. I think it's so easy to get caught up in whatever you're doing and not pay attention to the van parked next to you or the guy smoking two cars away. It's so unfortunate that someone has to go through an attack in order to remind us that we need to be more aware of our surroundings and our actions. Please, please take a look at the following site (click on the picture), read the information on it, and remember it.

The Rundown:

~ Pay attention to your surroundings
~ Look around your car
~ LISTEN to your instincts!!! If you feel uneasy, there's a reason - walk away
~ Park as close as possible to your destination
~ ALWAYS lock your car. Always. When you leave, when you get back in.
~ Load and go. Do whatever you need to do quickly, efficiently, and then GO. Don't hang out in or outside of your car cleaning, talking on your phone, organizing, etc.
~ Close your phone until you're in your car. If you're talking, you're not paying attention, which makes you prey.
~ Did I mention instincts???

It's such common sense that is easy to forget in the hustle and bustle of life. But please remember for yourself, for your children, for your family, and your friends. Stay safe!

Back to School SALE!!!

2009-08-31T11:31:00.002-04:00

I decided that it's high time that I do a sale in my shop. What better time than back to school? So, all Preschooler Tote Bags are 10% off through September 15th! The price listed in my shop reflects discount. I'm always willing to make something new from any of the fabric I have listed here or in my shop and this discount applies to all fabrics/custom orders!

Back to School!!

2009-08-27T14:04:00.002-04:00

My little dude started his first year of preschool this year, which motivated me to make him a little bag. His school suggested using a tote bag instead of a back pack because it's a lot easier for preschoolers to use. That way, it's also easy for the teachers to stick papers and other things in when they have a line of students waiting to go. It's simple, but cute, and fun for my little guy. It can be made in any of my available fabrics... or shoot me an idea!

Fall is going to be so fun!

2009-08-12T23:04:00.002-04:00

Making new things really gets me all excited, which makes me laugh, in and of itself. I experimented with a new venture today: PANTS! You know what? They're fun to make. Yes that's right, this 26-year-old has fun sewing! I received a custom request to make a pair of capris to match one of the dresses in my shop and I'm loving the outcome. Now I can only hope the recipient of these will love them just as much!

Ehh? Ehhh?? :D

Do YOU have "At-Home-Mom Syndrome?"

2009-07-22T09:36:00.003-04:00

I was talking with some ladies on a mommy forum that I'm a member of about At-home-mom syndrome. What is at-home-mom syndrome, you may ask?

This essentially means:
~You stay in super comfy, sloppy looking clothing all day
~Pull your hair back
~No make up
~No perfume (sometimes no deodorant - come on - you know who you are), etc.
~Not showering every day (we all do it, don't kid yourself)

Those are just few out of many examples I could list. This applies to both those of us that work at home or that stay at home with the kids (both are WORK, though, don't get me wrong).

I know I have found myself in this rut more times than I can count. I get dirty during the day with the kids, so there are more days than not that I never really get "ready." What's the point when you know you'll be dirty in 20 minutes, right? Well, I've found that along with this at home mom syndrome, I feel worse about myself. Sure I'm way more comfy, but feeling like a slob most of the time isn't exactly fantastic for your self esteem.

So, what do you do if you have this syndrome? Well, hopefully this little blurb will inspire you to do something for yourself!!! Do your hair, put on lipstick, brush your teeth three times a day, anything that makes you feel better! I have lost some weight, so I indulged in some new clothing that makes me feel as light as I really am, as opposed to the 2-sizes-too-big stuff I was slouching in before. But you don't have to splurge on a new wardrobe in order to feel better about yourself. Get a new haircut and buy a new mascara. Or just USE your old mascara and your blow dryer. You don't have to have money to feel better about yourself! You just need to focus on you for a change.

So your challenge this week, if you should decide to accept it, is to do your hair! It's that easy. Just one change a week to a happier you!

Here is a rather scary self-photo of me, taken this morning, before coffee (yikes!!). You can do this!!

I just love Google Blog Alert!!

2009-07-21T08:27:00.003-04:00

I set my account up quite a while ago with something called Google Blog alert. This is a really cool little tool that sends Google's little probes all over the web to find the keywords you've chosen. Then, when it finds something, it sends a message to your designated email address to let you know. Now, I rarely find anything in my email from the alerts I have out, but this morning, I did! It led me to this really nifty website called:

(Click to go there!)

They've decided to feature my shop, which is really cool. I think it is totally awesome when a completely random blog thinks you're stuff is nifty enough to use their page space for it. :)

They also have some neat links for activities to do with your kiddos, recipes, and stuff!

Thanks so much Nanny Space, for making my day!!

A new creation for FALL!!

2009-07-19T17:30:00.002-04:00

I've finally found just a little time to make something new and I have quite a few things in the works, too! It's been so long since I've updated! Sorry folks! I wanted to make something with sleeves for fall and I think my first go around came out ok. I want to make the gathering at the sleeves a little more pronounced (wider), but Ava really seems to like it! She's been wearing it constantly, so I guess that's a good thing. My princess is my hardest critic! ;)

Darn the discontinued fabrics!

2009-06-17T17:36:00.003-04:00

I had someone on etsy do an alchemy request for one of my discontinued prints. I did it because I still have about one yard left of that print. I would love to list this dress on etsy because it turned out SO super cute (in my opinion anyway), but since it's discontinued, I can't. *sob* I thought I'd share it here instead.

I so wish that print was still available. I mean, there are still retailers selling it, but I just don't want to join the mouse hunt for it. Oh well. :D I'll enjoy it while I can, I guess.

Gotta love this site!

2009-06-17T11:24:00.002-04:00

If you're reading this blog, then that probably means that you're an online shopper since this blog is all about... well... shopping at my store! :D I just have to share a little tip about online shopping, especially with bigger chain stores:

Have you ever heard of this site? It's so awesome! You just type in the name of the site you're shopping with to see if there are any coupon codes. I have saved SO much money by using this tool! I just bought a bunch of new feet for my sewing machine so I can play (tee hee) and saved 20% off of my entire purchase!

Onward my shopper friends!! Save yourself some money. :D

So it took me forever, but it's finally finished

2009-06-16T13:18:00.004-04:00

I've been working on this romper for weeks now, figuring out the pattern and exactly what I wanted. Finally, I'm done! It's the first time I've ever done buttons on anything and I think they look really cute. My sewing machine makes it so much easier than I ever knew it could be. Woot for button hole attachments!! It's so exciting when you figure out new things to do! I love being creative.

Funny story about Hayden and the romper... I finished the buttons first and wanted to try it on Hayden before I did the snaps. Actually Ava was sleeping and I was just super excited to see it almost finished. So I put it on him, we went to show Daddy, and Hayden looked so sad. I asked him if he liked it and he said no. This of course, broke my heart. I asked him why and he just shrugged his shoulders. Then he said, "Mommy, it's a dress," and just put his head down. I didn't have the leg snaps attached yet. It really made me laugh out loud. As soon as I put the snaps on, then it was cool, but my little boy does not wear dresses - just for the record. LOL!

Anyway, I digress. Here is the finished product!!!

This is way overdue!!

2009-06-14T09:12:00.003-04:00

I'm making a pact - with you, with myself, with everyone else, to create more! To do more! My goal is to do one new thing a week, at the very least. Many of my favorite fabrics are discontinued (boo hoo) so I am on the look out for new ones. I'm going to get creative, especially for fall.

If you'd like to know what's going on, I'm also going to start a mailing list. Just leave me a comment with your email and I'll be sure to notify you of secret shop specials and each new creation!!

I'm pretty excited about this. I really want to challenge myself and push the limit, raise the bar, and just sew like a... rockstar.. oh no that's party!! Haha! I'm already excited to see what else I can come up with. I have a few ideas. Now I just need my fabric to arrive... and time. LOL!

Stay tuned, friends!

A little appetizer if you will

2009-06-04T09:50:00.001-04:00

Of my newest creation! It's still in progress (needs buttons and snaps yet), but I just had to post it! Finally something for BOYS! It took me a few weeks to come up with a pattern that I really liked, but I'm very excited about the final product.

It is fully lined, will have snaps for easy diaper access, and buttons at the shoulders. :D

Another awesome Natural Mommie Giveaway!

2009-03-25T10:24:00.001-04:00

Dude, I can't even believe my eyes. She's giving away an ORGANIC ERGO!!!!!!! I've died and gone to heaven... well, if I win, that is.

THE GIVEAWAY: ERGObaby wants you to experience what truly handsfree babywearing is about and is offering Natural Mommie readers a complete ORGANIC hands free set valued at $212!! Set includes their 100% Organic Cotton Blue Carrier with a funky, mod embroidered floral design, the Organic Blue Backpack and the Organic Blue Front pouch.

Click on any of the pics to get to her site!!!

Look at this awesome giveaway!!!

2009-03-24T17:27:00.000-04:00

This is such a great blog! http://naturalmommie.blogspot.com/2006/03/bare-organics.html She has all kind of giveaways going on right now, but I'm especially excited about the Bare Organics one! Awesome stuff! You have to check it out and enter!!!

Pillowcase Dress in Amy Butler's Lotus Lacework Fabric

2009-03-23T16:29:00.000-04:00

This was a custom order and I just absolutely love the result! Amy Butler's fabrics are so nice! I love the designs and could stockpile my fabric stash with her things alone. Anywho, it turned out well - super cute!

I'm stoked!

2009-03-21T21:55:00.000-04:00

I'm being featured on a blog this week!!! The post just went up an hour ago. You've gotta check it out: http://www.fromathenasdesk.com

This blog feature is also a giveaway! You can receive an $18 gift certificate to my shop. Entries are accepted until next Friday. I'm really excited! It's so neat to be recognized. :D

Yea!

Just listed a new dress!

2009-03-18T08:47:00.001-04:00

Ava looked so cute on her birthday!!! Although we took it off for cake. lol!

Purple Paisley Pillowcase Dress

2009-03-09T20:38:00.001-04:00

I just finished this little item up this weekend and think it turned out very cute!! I love having a girl and being able to make clothes for her.

New in shop - Special for Introduction!

2009-03-03T11:25:00.000-05:00

The pillowcase dress is official and live in my shop now!

Since this is the first week, I'm offering FREE SHIPPING on all dresses, including custom items!! Get it while it's hot.

Look how cute!

2009-03-02T11:47:00.000-05:00

Ava's birthday is in two weeks and I'm making her a pillowcase dress with cupcakes on it. I've been searching for the perfect bow and I've finally found it at Ashlie's Bowtique!! It is absolutely adorable. The one listed was actually a little bit bigger than I needed, so she made a custom bow to show me, with no obligation to buy. Well, of course I did because it's adorable, but wow! Such great customer service!!

I can't wait to see Ava all dolled up on her birthday! :D

Mentioned on I Wanted to Wonder

2009-02-26T21:41:00.000-05:00

This site is so super cute! I am ordering a hair bow holder for Ava's room. The seller also has a shop on etsy and we've been in contact. Today she said that she linked my etsy shop on her page that has "Links she Loves" on it!! I'm so excited and feel honored to be among some amazing crafters and artists!!

http://www.iwantedtowonder.wahmweb.com/store/WsAncillary.asp?ID=47

Here's the main page: http://www.iwantedtowonder.com/store/Default.asp She has great customer service and her art just speaks for itself. It's adorable. If I had unlimited funds, the kids rooms and bathroom would be decked out! The cuteness almost kills me. Love it!!

You have to check out her shop!! Also, take a look at what Miss Ava is getting for her hair bows!!! This way I won't lose them by the handful! What an awesome idea! That is her bedding and the picture (birds) that will be personalized with her name. I'm so excited!

Bugs and Butterflies Apron perfect for my cutie patootie - or yours!

2009-02-25T16:44:00.000-05:00

I just made this apron this week and I'm absolutely in love with the fabric. It was a dream to work with (thank you P&B Textiles) and so stinkin' cute! I recently found that they have different colors that are the same design, including pink. If this sells well, that will definitely be going in my stash! Even Hayden loves it!! That's the best pic of my toddler I've been able to capture in a long time.

So excited!

2009-02-22T21:44:00.000-05:00

I feel like all of the time at my keyboard is getting me a little noticed! There are two popular blogs that are going to feature my aprons!! One will be in the next few weeks and the other in late March. I'll post links as soon as it's live! I'll also be doing giveaways, so you'll want to stay tuned! :)

It's not HUGE, but I'm excited. Score one for the little apron maker!

Check out the newest creation - not even in my shop yet!

2009-02-16T08:45:00.001-05:00

I made this for Ava over the weekend and love the turnout. What do you think?

Leave a comment and tell me what you think!! I'll give you free shipping off any item in my shop (including these dresses) if you do! :D

Check out this awesome giveaway at Allover Art

2009-02-16T08:42:00.000-05:00

You just have to enter this contest: http://alloverart-nc.blogspot.com/2009/02/february-giveaway.html

I had such a hard time choosing one item to choose as my entry. :D Awesome stuff!!

What I chose:

In January, I'm donating 10% of sales to a non-profit organization.

2008-12-19T10:01:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited to be doing this. There is a pregnancy informational site and forums that I've been a part of since before my son was born (2.5 years). It has been so insightful and given me so much knowledge, comfort, reassurance, etc.

So come January 1st, I'll be donating 10% of every sale back to the American Pregnancy Association. Please help me give back!!!

Check out the shops on the side!!

2008-12-17T17:26:00.001-05:00

There are so many fantastic shops on etsy and on the web. I've linked a few of my favorites on the left. Check them out!!!

Some new aprons

2008-12-02T11:27:00.000-05:00

I didn't get nearly as much done over the Holiday week as I had hoped, but here are a few.

YeeHAW! Ride 'em cowboys!

Snowmen

A fall themed Mommy and Me apron set I custom made for someone

Random assembly of finished products!

2008-11-04T09:38:00.000-05:00

A custom set of aprons I made for a mom and little one. Instead of an applique, these two feature a pocket and a trim of coordinating fabric on the top and bottom.

These I made for a brother and sister. I wanted to find something that coordinated, but didn't totally match. I had almost given up hope when I found this adorable collection by Heidi Grace. I fell in love with it and I think the set coordinates very well. Her whole entire collection of fabrics is adorable and I even bought some blues to make a purse for myself. Love it!

I also need a girl model! Hah! Come on Ava, grow! For now, Hayden will do.

A little preview of an unfinished apron set with cupcake applique. I love it!

One of my first experimental aprons.

A red pepper apron. Since this apron, I've decided to change the way I do things a little bit. I found the wording on a side with a bold print was just too busy. Without mistakes there is no perfection, right? LOL! Just a chapter in a book.

Apples and Pears Children's Reversible Apron

2008-10-08T18:57:00.000-04:00

This is my first apron made without an applique, but I think it's adorable without! I've even made a matching adult and child set with it that turned out nicely. Seems like it's going to be a popular fabric!

My first apron!

2008-08-07T21:39:00.000-04:00

My two year old is a tiny chef in the making! He always wants to be in the kitchen helping, which is what inspired this adorable, reversible apron. Customizable for all the little chefs out there, itching to get their hands on a spoon!!