Tips, Tid-Bits, Motherhood & More

Be Mine...

2010-02-12T07:36:00.000-08:00

Valentines Day is almost here! Love is in the air. I always take time to right down all the things that i love each Valentines Day. Kinda like Thanksgiving...and writing down everything you are thankful for. Here is my list.....
I LOVE...
My Lord
My Husband
My Beautiful Little Girl
My Sweet Baby Boy
My Lovable Hugable Doggie
My Family (far and near)
That i'm able to be a stay at home mom
Chocolate
Sewing
Photography
Baking
Painting
Being Crafty
To take my kids for a walk
My Life

This is just a few things that i have time to write down. What are some of your loves?? I hope everyone has a blessed and wonderful friday...and Valentines Day!

xoxo

Inspired Crown.......

2010-02-04T07:38:00.000-08:00

Frontier Dreams: Wool Felt Birthday Crown Tutorial

I found this tutorial for a crown. I have been wanting to make my little ones a felt crown for awile...and the inspired me. :)

Black Apple Doll

2010-02-01T13:06:00.000-08:00

This Black Apple Doll is soooooo Cute!! Got all the supplies out to make this today!! :)

You can find the tutorial here.

Thanks Martha........

2010-02-01T10:41:00.000-08:00

Found this tutorial on Martha Stewart's website. There is also a video. I LOVE TUTU's and Petti Skirts!!

I have to make this for my little princess. :)

Tools and Materials
Satin charmeuse (1 1/2 yards)
Nylon chiffon (about 3 yards -- see measurements below)
1-inch-wide ribbon elastic
Iron-on interfacing (1 1/2 yards)
1-inch-wide ribbon in coordinating color
Button
Iron
Sewing machine
Pins
Needle and thread
Scissors

Pettiskirts How-To
Cut the Pieces
1. Satin charmeuse: one 7 1/2-by-48-inch rectangle.

2. Iron-on interfacing: two 2-by-48-inch strips.

3. Nylon chiffon: six 3 1/2-by-46-inch strips; twelve 4 1/2-by-54-inch strips; enough lengths of 2 1/2-inch-wide strips to make 48 yards.

4. 1-inch-wide ribbon elastic: one 17-inch-long piece.

5. 1-inch-wide ribbon: two 18-inch-long pieces.

Make the Waistband
1. Iron a strip of interfacing to the wrong side of the satin charmeuse rectangle along each long edge.

2. Fold the satin charmeuse piece in half widthwise (to make a 7 1/2-by-24-inch rectangle), with right sides facing each other. Match edges and pin along short side.

3. Starting at one end of the pinned short side, sew a seam along the side for 2 inches and backstitch to secure. Leave a 1 1/2-inch opening and begin sewing again to finish the edge, backstitching at both ends.

4. Flip the the waistband right side out and fold in half lengthwise by folding the top half in toward the center, matching the raw edges at the bottom. The fabric should be right side out on the inside and outside of the waistband. Press the fold and pin the raw edges.

5. Straight stitch all the way around the waistband, 1 1/4 inches down from the fold.

6. Straight stitch all the way around the waistband once more, 1 inch down from the first stitch line.

First Tier
1. Sew 3 of the 3 1/2-inch-wide nylon chiffon pieces together, end to end, to make one long strip. Repeat to make a second strip.

2. Shirr along one long end of each strip.

3. Attach the shirred side of one strip to the outer bottom raw edge of the waistband. Repeat with the second shirred strip and the inside bottom raw edge of the waistband.

Second Tier
1. Sew 6 of the 4 1/2-inch-wide nylon chiffon pieces together to make a long strip. Repeat to make a second strip.

2. Shirr along one long end of each strip.

3. Attach the shirred side of one strip to the bottom edge of the outer first tier. Repeat with the second shirred strip and the bottom edge of the inner first tier.

Ruffle Fluff
1. Sew enough 2 1/2-inch strips of nylon chiffon together to make two 24-yard long strips.

2. Shirr these strips down the middle of the strip (not along an edge as before).

3. Pin the stitched line of the shirred strip to the bottom edge of the outer second tier, and sew in place along the stitched line. Repeat with the second shirred strip on the bottom of the inner second tier.

Ribbon Elastic
1. On one end of the 17-inch elastic piece, attach a button. On the opposite end, sew a buttonhole.

2. Attach the 18-inch pieces of ribbon to each end of the elastic.

3. Attach a large safety pin to one end of the ribbon, and feed through the waistband channel.

4. Button the elastic and tie ribbon ends in a bow. Cut ribbon ends neatly to finish.

Fabric Flowers
Tools and Materials
2 colors of lightweight fabric, like the nylon chiffon used for the pettiskirts
Sewing machine
Scissors
Needle and thread in coordinating color
Hot-glue gun and glue sticks
Small pin back
Embellishments: bows, sequins, appliques, etc.

Fabric Flowers How-To
1.Cut a strip of each color fabric 3 1/2 inches wide by 2 yards long.

2. Shirr each strip down the center of the strip.

3. Twist the shirred strips together.

4. Beginning at one end, roll the strip, securing it to itself every few inches with a needle and thread. Continue until you have reached the desired size of the flower. Cut off excess.

5. Using a hot-glue gun, attach a small pin to back of flower.

6. Embellish the flowers with bows, sequins, appliques, etc.

Mile Stones.........

2010-02-01T10:30:00.000-08:00

My little boy just keeps growing and growing! WAY to fast if you ask me. :(
But he has been doing something lately that i just have to share. He has found his feet! :) So sweet to see him find his feet. I snapped a few pics of him doing this this morning. If you have read my blog you may have noticed that i'm pretty shy about posting pics of my kids. But this one i think i will share. :) Well as soon as i get it downloaded onto the computer....hehe!

Music Monday......

2010-02-01T08:29:00.000-08:00

Got alot of things done this weekend. Unfortunately i could not find my go to "Clean the House" music. :(
This is the one song that gets me going! Happy Monday!!

Cutest Nap Mat Ever.........

2010-01-31T12:58:00.000-08:00

I found a tutorial on a blog that i happened upon. I printed the tutorial...but can't remember the blog! :O To the person that i got this off of....THANK YOU!! I wish i could find your blog again. I totally give you full credit for this. Thanks for the tutorial my little darling girl is going to LOVE it. Also going to be great for gifts. :)

Empanada.....

2010-01-28T19:46:00.000-08:00

Found this Awesome recipe here

Empanada dough:

2 1/4 cups flour

1 1/2 teaspoons salt

1 stick (1/2 cup) cold butter, cut into pieces

1 large egg

1/3 cup ice water

1 tablespoon vinegar (we didn't have white vinegar, so I used white wine vinegar and they were still great)

In a food processor, combine the flour, salt, and butter. Pulse until completely combined. It is important the butter is cold for this to work. The dough will look like damp sand. In a small bowl mix together the egg, vinegar, and water. Pour this into the processor and pulse until the dough comes together. Turn out on a board and give it two or three quick kneads. Shape into a disk and wrap in plastic wrap. Place in fridge for at least one hour.

Take the dough out of the fridge and cut your dough into 12 equal pieces. I do this by cutting the disk in half, cutting those pieces in half, and so on until you have 12 pieces. With a rolling pin, roll your ball of dough into a flat circle about 1/8" thick. Place a spoon of filling on top and fold over your dough to make a half-circle. Now crimp the sides until the pie stays closed. Place the empanada on a baking sheet.

I find it easiest to do all this near my fridge. That way I can keep my dough balls and the empanada tray in the fridge so the dough stays nice and cold. If it warms up it gets hard to handle.

At this point you can either cook your empanadas at 400 F for 25 minutes, or freeze them on the tray for later.

Chicken Filling:

For a quick meal, I just use one of those cooked rotisserie chickens from the grocery store.

1 whole chicken, meat removed and shredded

1 T cumin

1 onion, chopped

2 T olive oil

salt & pepper

1 t mexican oregano

2 T cream

1/4 c tequila

Heat oil in a pan on med heat. Add onions and cook until softened and beginning to caramelize. Deglaze the pan by adding the tequila. Add to the pan the shredded chicken, cumin and oregano. Lower heat and cook for five to ten minutes before adding the cream. Turn off heat and allow the mixture to cool a bit before making your empanadas.

Yummy....

2010-01-28T19:38:00.000-08:00

Layers of whipped cream, sliced bananas, crushed, and whole oreos. Kept in the fridge for a cool and REALLY GOOD cake!

Found this yummy idea....here

Generic or Name Brand Diapers.....

2010-01-28T14:38:00.000-08:00

When it comes to diapers...i have tried them all. Pampers are by far my favorite "Name Brand" choice. But i have also tried the generic brands. I tried Parents Choice from Walmart and they are HORRIBLE!!! They feel like cardboard and don't hold anything. I tried the generic Target Brand and found that they are pretty good. Price wise they are great and they hold alot. I have also found that the generic Target brand also is best in Wipes. They are Huge! And because of that i use alot less when little one has an explosive diaper. :o ! So thank you Target...for having a good product and great price. :) You should try them out for yourself if you haven't.

100th Post........

2010-01-23T08:56:00.000-08:00

WOW! I can't believe i have made it to my 100th post! Hurray! Today is Saturday...i usually don't post on the weekend BUT i'm going to be M.I.A. for at least a week. So i thought i would get on here and post a few things. This week i have done alot of cleaning and organizing and SELLING!! That is right...i have been selling away and making some MOOOOOLLLLAAA!!! hehe! First off i started cleaning out my daughters closet and pulled out some dresses that i could bring myself to part with and posted them on Craigslist...i so Heart Craigslist. Cause it is Free-O-La to do so. I sold all the clothes that i could part with and made some bucks to put in her piggy bank for a rainy day and for the next spring consignment sale. :) I did take her to Costco yesterday after i made a sale and let her pick out something. Got the cutest Baby Lulu outfit and a Card Matching set by Paul Frank. She loves it.
I have also been sewing and painting and crafting quite a bit....i will post some pics of what i have been up to later. The house is coming along. :) So i'm busy decorating. My favorite part of it all. I have alot on my list of things to sew for it. Curtains is #1 on the list. Can't wait to pick out all the fabric. :)

Focus........

2010-01-11T12:10:00.000-08:00

I have found that i have a hard time staying focused. I used to be great at keeping things organized and focused on what needed to be done. Now with kids....can't seem to stay focused at ALL!! I found some inspiring thoughts on this website. Here what it has to say.......

One of the biggest challenges of achieving our goals is being able to stay focused long enough to see results. Most of us feel excited and motivated when we first set our goals, and that feeling can carry us along for several days, or even weeks. But then, what happens? We begin to lose momentum. We get scattered, we procrastinate, we lose the fire that once fueled our dreams. And we stop working so hard for what we want, even if we still want it.

There can be many reasons for our waning interest, such as not seeing visible progress as quickly as we'd like, so we begin to feel that our efforts are a waste of time. Or we lose sight of what we were working so hard for. Or we feel confused about the steps we need to take to make our dream a reality.

Since this is a common problem for many people, I'm going to offer some helpful tips to re-fuel your fire:

1) Be clear about what you want. When we first set our goals, we know exactly what we want. We have a clear picture of the outcome in our minds, and we usually know exactly how to make it happen. But once the initial excitement wears off, we might lose that clear vision and get confused. We start thinking that maybe that goal isn't achievable after all, and maybe we should aim for something smaller, or change course altogether. To stop this from happening, write out your goal in minute detail! Write about the ways it will improve your life and make you feel more fulfilled. Then make sure to read this description every single day. Even more than once a day, if you need to. Keep that vision STRONG in your mind.

2) Be clear about why you want it. The subconscious mind can be sneaky with the messages it sends us, and we might think we want something, when in fact we really want something else entirely. How can we tell what is going on beneath the surface? An excellent way to gain insight on this is to write out the question, "I want (insert your goal) because it will . . .," and write exactly what it will do for you. How it will make you feel. And then keep following up with questions that go deeper into what you really want. For example, let's say I wanted to lose 20 pounds. I would write, "I want to lose 20 pounds because it will make me feel better about myself." Following that answer, my next question would be, "Why do I want to feel better about myself?" So I would write, "I want to feel better about myself because I will be a happier person." Ah, so my TRUE goal is to be a happier person. Can I do that without losing 20 pounds? Of course. But the key isn't to talk ourselves out of our goals, it's to understand what our TRUE goals really are. Because once we understand what we really want, we will be much more focused in our efforts to achieve it.

3) Set a plan of action. How do we get to where we want to be? By defining the action steps that will get us there. This part is actually really simple. Most of us are great at planning, but not so great at taking the actions! ;-) But I do want to point out one thing here. Remember Step #2 above, my goal is to lose 20 pounds, but it's also to be a happier person. How can I do those things? Obviously, eating a balanced diet and exercising will help me shed the 20 pounds, but I also need to work on my mental and emotional state on a daily basis, in order to become a happier person. Just losing 20 pounds will not automatically make me a happier person. So included in my action steps should be positive thinking techniques that will make me feel happier, such as affirmations, meditation, positive self-talk, etc. Our action steps need to be VERY detailed. In fact, with most goals, we can come up with daily action steps, weekly action steps, and monthly action steps that will keep us on the right track. Think about the outcome you're trying to create, and then think about each step you will need to make it a reality.

4) Organize, review, re-organize again, and repeat. One mistake many of us make is that we set our plans and call it good. But plans need to be revised every so often to keep them fresh and relevant. Once you have your action plan set, perform a DAILY review of it to be sure you are still working toward your goals, and that your goals haven't changed since you first made your plans. Remember that our lives are not stagnant; they are always shifting and changing, as are we. So make it a daily practice to review, re-organize (if necessary), and you will be sure you are always moving forward decisively. You can do this first thing in the morning before you start your day, or in the evening before you retire so you are clear about your plans for the following day.

5) Act like it's already your reality. Finally, one of the most powerful things we can do is to act like we already have what we are trying to create. Using the example above, I would act like I weighed 20 pounds less, and I would act like I was already happy. Yes, this can be challenging to do, especially when your eyes are telling you an opposite "truth." But remember that the creation process begins in the MIND. If your mind is constantly telling you that you're fat and unhappy, guess what happens? You will believe it. If, on the other hand, you keep telling yourself that you are fit and happy, you will begin to really feel that way, and you will begin to attract that result to yourself. It takes time though. Remember that your circumstances today are a direct result of your past thoughts and beliefs, which direct your actions, which creates a certain result. If you start thinking and acting in a different way today, you will create different results tomorrow.

4 Months

2010-01-08T11:16:00.001-08:00

What is my 4 month old baby boy up to??? He is growing so FAST!! He is already wearing size 6-9 month clothes. He already is cutting his first tooth...oh my! He still doesn't like tummy time very much. Almost ready to turn over. Sleeping almost 6 hours straight at night. Loves to giggle, drool, look at his hands and suck on his fingers. Just an absolute blessing! My baby boy...mommy loves you so much. Happy 4 months.

Fabulous Friday.........

2010-01-08T07:32:00.000-08:00

Today as i set here looking out my bedroom window at the beautiful snow falling i have been thinking about a new hair do. I love my long locks but since i have become a mom i have had less and less time to fix it. I don't want to go to short but i do want a new style. So i started looking at my look books. And i think i have a winner.

I think this is as short as i can go. I think i could keep this cut and style up. So as soon as the roads clear...i'm off to wack off my long locks. SO in fabulous friday fashion.....i'm going to go get a fabulous new do. :)

Boys.......

2010-01-05T13:20:00.001-08:00

I love this commercial. It makes me laugh so hard. And now that i have a boy of my own....i truly understand....HA!!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

2010-01-05T12:51:00.000-08:00

We are back home and back to our regular routine. Santa was very good to my family! 2009 was a great year. New home...new baby boy. Little girl is busy playing with all her goodies she got for christmas. I have been busy trying to make room for all her goodies...ha! We are so blessed.

Now on to New years resolutions. I'm usually good at keeping mine. I have just a few for this year.

As for now...i'm just going to coast for awhile. Now that the hustle and bustle of the holidays are over it is time to sit back and enjoy my family and play with the kiddies. And maybe sip some coffee or hot chocolate along the way. :)

Happy New Year!

Music Monday......

2009-12-21T08:54:00.000-08:00

Got the hubby some new tunes for Christmas. Ben Folds is such a favorite in this family. If you haven't listened to him you should check him out. Back in the day he used to be part of a band called Ben Folds Five but now it is just Ben Folds.

Here is one of my personal favorites!

Tis the Season..................

2009-12-17T07:52:00.000-08:00

I LOVE THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS!!! All the festivities, food, desserts, family, friends, decorations...i just love it all. But i woke up this morning with a new love.....i love seeing my babies in their footed Christmas Jammies! So very sweet. I love taking my little girl down the stairs in the mornings only to here her say....TREEEEEE. And point to all the ornaments she sees. Oh how it warms the heart. I can't wait till she gets up Christmas morning and sees what Santa has brought her. I can't wait till she has Christmas with all our family. Grandparents, Great Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, Cousins.......

"Maybe" Monday...........

2009-12-14T07:56:00.000-08:00

Today i woke up with TONS of work to do on my mind. So today is "Maybe" Monday! Here is the start of my ever growing list of things that maybe will get done.....

Maybe.........

i will get to sew on christmas gifts today
i will get all my laundry done
dishes will get done
baby girls newly painted bedroom will get decorated and organized
i can catch up on emails
i can get some presents wrapped and under the tree (yes the tree got up this weekend)!
at the end of the day and my favorite show is on i can sip a cup of hot chocolate

So here i go....off to start my list. Happy Monday!!!!

Fabulous Friday......

2009-12-11T11:55:00.000-08:00

Looks like Fridays are the soonest i can get to the computer these days. Kids are down for a nap and i'm recouping from the morning for about an hour watch alittle GH... before i have to rev back up to finish tons of "unfinished" things that need to be done this weekend. Oh like....put up the CHRISTMAS TREE!!! I was so looking forward to this christmas. Little girl is old enough to know what it is about this year and now i have my baby boy. But with the house remodel...i have nothing done. I hate it. I WILL have a tree up but the end of the weekend! Still sewing away on gifts. But today is Fabulous Friday....so i have to tell you what is so fabulous about today. I scored 4 new pair of shoes for baby boy for only $20!! Oh yes couldn't resist. Local consignment shop was having a great sale. 2 pair of Angel shoes. 1 pair of brown squeaker shoes. And 1 pair of brown boots. All to big for the moment but will soon fit. :)

Quick Clean.......

2009-12-04T18:36:00.000-08:00

Bathrooms

Sink cleaned, disinfected and rinsed
Tub and/or shower tiles cleaned, disinfected and rinsed
Chrome fixtures shined and cleaned
Toilet base, rim, inside and outside disinfected and wiped
Vanity top cleaned and items organized and put away
Towels changed
Mirrors cleaned
Window sills wiped down
Trash emptied
Baseboards dusted and/or wiped
Vacuum and mop and dry floor
Spot wipe walls and switch plates

Kitchen

Countertops and backsplash cleaned
Cabinet fronts washed and wiped
Sinks scrubbed and disinfected
Floor vacuumed and mopped and dried
Outside of appliances (oven, microwave, refrigerator, dishwasher, stovetop)
Small appliances wiped
Window sills cleaned
Baseboards dusted or wiped
Spot wipe walls and switch plates
Trash emptied
Dishes washed
Wash or dust table and chairs

Bedrooms

Carpets vacuumed
Beds made
Linens changed
All areas dusted – on top, on front and underneath
Picture frames dusted
Mirrors cleaned
Window sills cleaned
Spot wipe walls and switch plates
Trash emptied
Baseboards wiped and dusted
Lampshades dusted

Other Living Areas, Hallways and Stairs

All areas dusted
Furniture vacuumed
Hardwood or tile floors damp mopped and dried
Carpeted floors vacuumed
Baseboards dusted and cobwebs removed
Window sills wiped down
Spot wipe walls and switch plates
Glass tables cleaned
Picture frames dusted
Lamp shades dusted

New Christmas Traditions.......

2009-12-04T13:43:00.000-08:00

The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition™ is an activity the entire family will enjoy. Based on the tradition Carol Aebersold began with her family in the 1970s, this cleverly rhymed children's book explains that Santa knows who is naughty and/or nice because he sends a scout elf to every home. During the holiday season, the elf watches children by day and reports to Santa each night. When children awake, the elf has returned from the North Pole and can be found hiding in a different location. This activity allows The Elf on the Shelf to become a delightful hide-and-seek game.

Fabulous Friday......

2009-12-04T12:29:00.000-08:00

This is FABULOUS for your hair!!!!!

A blend of herbs, vitamins & Tea Tree Oil replaces moisture, soothes, detangles, enhances the performance of products and reminds us of old-school barbers' elixirs.
Who: Anyone; especially dry, coarse, porous or colored hair.

When: Daily; to detangle and prepare hair for styling; anytime to dampen and reactivate products already in hair; to wet down hair and lubricate the blade while cutting.

How: Spray liberally and evenly on damp hair and work through.

Forever Young.....

2009-12-03T13:16:00.000-08:00

This song really takes me back!!!

Family Rules..........

2009-12-03T06:11:00.000-08:00

I found a tutorial for a Family Rules Canvas HERE. It is so lovely...i can't wait to make my own.

1. Obey Your Parents

2. Be kind always

3. Sing silly, dance crazy, hug often, snuggle much, say I love you

4. Forgiveness is mandatory

5. Have fun, ask first, no fussing, no whining

6. Always tell the truth

7. Encourage your siblings…share in their joy

8. Husband hug your wife daily & wife always be on his side

9. Never follow an apology with a but…

10. Keep your promises

11. Use your manners – yes, please, thank you

12. Always give to others first

13. Too much TV is bad…too much reading is good

14. Use nice words…ignore dirty ones

15. Bless your food, be grateful, eat together, clean up after yourself

16. There is no such thing as “mine” in this house…it is all God’s

17. Say your prayers…thank God for this family

1. get a huge canvas. nicole's was 30" x 40". mine is a little smaller, but not much. get it on sale please. Paint the canvas (you see the paint on the border and on the sides). its best if the canvas is wrapped all around the edges rather than the exposed wood. just paint it sloppily - no need to be perfect, just make sure all the edges are covered.

2. Spend a whole lot of time at the paper store picking out paper you cannot resist. nicole felt some of her papers, although she loves them, were maybe a bit to dark or had too much contrast in them for the final writing to come out really clear. so remember: less contrast, not too dark. got it?

3. Write your rules. Be careful of what you put. My kids often refer to the canvas. My favorite is…”Daddy, hug mommy”. A rule is a rule, ya know? I should have put HUSBAND- MASSAGE YOUR WIFE’S BACK DAILY. check out the links above to the blogs. they also have a few suggestions for rules. i think i will steal most of mine, but add in things like, "tummy to the table".

4. Now, cut that beautiful paper into strips. I varied the widths, used “torn” scissors, scalloped scissors, and so on. Use glue, mod podge, or spray adhesive to lay it out on the canvas. i would definitely recommend mod podge the most on this.

5. I then went on to the computer and typed all the rules in different fonts. I am a font junky thanks to lindsey’s sister, Jennifer, showing us how to download free fonts. Do it…get hooked! It is easy and wonderful! just google "free fonts" and you'll get more than you'll ever need.

6. I printed them and “eyed” or copied them onto my papers with black and white paint pens.
and here's where all the questions come in: "the canvas is obviously wider than standard 12 x 12 paper. how did she fit this in the printer/get the words on?" she cut her paper in half - it's not actually one long strip. you can kind of see it in the pic below where it says "forgiveness is mandatory". maybe she taped them together in the middle? i've done that a bunch, and if you are really careful it will work and you can still carefully take the tape off when you're done. just make sure to change the settings on your computer for your page layout before you print to allow for a larger paper size. when she says she "eyed" them, she did just that. she'd print out the rule in a font she wanted on plain paper, then look at it and copy it with a paint pen directly onto her fancy paper. most of us can't do that. she's just good. but i would still print it on one long strip of paper and go over it again with a paint pen just to thicken up the font's lines. just a thought - i think that's what she did.

***edited to add!!!: do a layer of mod podge on your canvas, add paper, smooth out, then let dry. then add another layer of mod podge on top to seal. let dry, then add another. it will still probably be a little bubbly.****

7. Cover that baby in mod podge and make your man hang it! do a couple few layers of mod podge. did you know there are different sheens of mod podge? i think nicole prefers matte, but there are also ones with more gloss to them.

ALWAYS TELL THE TRUTH

HAVE FUN, BE KIND, ASK FIRST, NO FUSSING, NO WHINING

BE CREATIVE AT ALL TIMES

ENCOURAGE YOUR SIBLINGS...SHARE IN THEIR JOY

HUSBAND-HUG YOUR WIFE DAILY & WIFE- ALWAYS BE ON HIS SIDE

OBEY YOUR PARENTS

NEVER LEAVE ANGRY

SING SILLY, DANCE CRAZY, HUG OFTEN, SNUGGLE OFTEN, SAY I LOVE YOU

KEEP YOUR PROMISES

USE YOUR MANNERS- YES, PLEASE...NO, THANK YOU

ALWAYS GIVE TO OTHERS FIRST

TOO MUCH TV IS BAD...TOO MUCH READING IS GOOD

USE NICE WORDS...IGNORE DIRTY WORDS

BLESS YOUR FOOD, BE GRATEFUL, EAT TOGETHER, CLEAN UP AFTER YOURSELF

SHARE EVERYTHING EXCEPT BAD IDEAS

SAY YOUR PRAYERS...THANK GOD FOR THIS FAMILY

Isn't this just the sweetest thing.........

I mostly copy and pasted the tutorial.....word for word. Just wanted to put that out there since i hate it when people try to say they made something when they just copied other people. I try to let everyone know when i copy something.

Can't wait to make my own....and when i do i will be sure to post! :)

M.I.A.

2009-12-03T05:54:00.000-08:00

I know that i have been M.I.A. for awhile now. Well over a month...almost 2 months. I took a break from the computer all together to focus on my family. My new son...he is such a blessing! What a joy it is to have him in our life. His sister loves him so. Every morning for the past week she gets up and comes in the room he is in and waives at him and says "Hi Brother"...and gives him a kiss. My heart melts!

I have also been getting ready for christmas. Shopping for gifts, wrapping paper and new ornaments. Hobby Lobby has the best wrapping paper this year! Of course i bought mine when it was 50% off. I not only found cute christmas paper...i found this black and white Damask print paper for other gifts through out the year. CUTE!! Can't wait to start wrapping.

I have also been working on sewing projects/gifts for various family members. Can't wait to have those completed. Lots of work and love is going into those.

And I have also been working on the house. Still lots to do. But yesterday i finally picked out paint color for the kids rooms. I knew what color....but picking out the right shade of those colors was difficult for me. Baby girl got a new bedroom suite...and pink walls. :) So very girly! I love it. Baby boy's room is on the vintage side. I made his bedding and now i'm in the market for vintage airplanes to finish his room.

I can't believe the Holidays are here. I can't wait to see baby girl dive in a rip open her gifts this year. She is old enough now to really get into it. On Santa's List: Play Kitchen, Pots and Pans, Dolls and an Inch worm riding toy. And lets just say mommy bought way to much other things...hehe!!! I just couldn't help myself this year.

Don't have the tree up yet....but that will happen hopefully VERY soon.

Chocolate Cobbler........YUMMY!!!!

2009-10-16T10:31:00.000-07:00

OH MY.......this looks wonderful. Must have to make it this weekend!!!!

CHOCOLATE COBBLER

Melt 2 sticks of butter in a 9 X 13 dish

Mix the following together in a bowl:

1 1/2 c sugar

1 1/2 c self-rising flour

1 tsp. vanilla

3/4 c of milk (plus a smidgen---I used almost a cup)

Pour this over the melted butter. DO NOT STIR...just drizzle the above over the butter.

In another bowl mix the following:

1 c sugar

5 tbsp. cocoa

Just SPRINKLE this over the mixture (I used my fingers). Again DO NOT STIR....just sprinkle.

Now add 2 cups of boiling water over the top of all of the above. DO NOT MIX....just pour over (covering all the dry mixture you just sprinkled).

Bake uncovered for 35-45 minutes.

Ongoing House Remodel.....

2009-10-16T08:56:00.000-07:00

We are Still remodeling our house. Here are a few pics.....

Love This Song........

2009-10-16T08:54:00.000-07:00

Sick-e-poo.........

2009-10-11T13:54:00.000-07:00

Everyone in my house is sick! No fun at all! BUT it is just a cold for all...no H1N1. Thank Goodness. It breaks my heart to see my babies so sick. :(

Car Seat Cover .......

2009-09-30T10:29:00.000-07:00

I found this tutorial on THIS blog and i was so excited to find it!

car seat cover tutorial

Supplies and Materials

* 1 yard each of two coordinating fabrics
* 6″ of a third coordinating fabric
* 2 1/2″ of a fourth coordinating fabric

Car Seat Cover Instructions

1. Cut the 2 main fabric pieces to be about 41″ x 36″. Round the corners.
2. Sew right sides together leaving a little space for turning. Notch corners, press seams open.
3. Turn right side out and press edges.
4. Edgestitch around the entire thing.
5. Fold the third and fourth coordinating fabric pieces in half and cut off the fold so you have 4 pieces (2 of each fabric).car-seat-cover
6. For the 6″ strap, press in half (picture 2) and then fold the raw edge in to the center and press (picture 3).car-seat-cover2a
7. For the 2 1/2″ strap, press the edges to the center. I used a bias tape maker to get the first fold (picture 4) and then pressed the other edge to meet (picture 6).
8. With the raw edges of the wider strap facing up and the raw edges of the narrow strap facing down, lay the narrow strap on top of the wide one and top stitch into place, tucking the ends inside and edge stitching the ends.
9. Sew the straps onto the main piece.

car seat cover tutorial

Cutting out the fabric for this project is actually more time consuming than sewing it together. The sewing is super easy and anyone can do it! These car seat covers are great for winter or summer weather, can double as a blanket, and are just so precious! Enjoy!

Wacky Wednesday......

2009-09-30T09:50:00.000-07:00

Oh the blessings of Two babies under Two! This morning i woke up to two very hungry babies. Usually i can time it just right but today my little girl got woke up and little boy woke up at the same time so i get up go down stairs and make a milk cup and oatmeal and then get her up and changed. When i went in to change her....what did i find? She had pulled her pj's off and pulled her diaper off and POO was everywhere!! WHAT!!! Why did she do this? Has anyone else experienced this? Needless to say I had major clean up to do. In the mean time baby boy is screaming at the top of his lungs! So i had to multitask this morning and feed both of them at the same time. Whew. What a way to start the day. : )

Well it is official...it is fall. Cool weather is here! Had to pull out the long sleeves this morning. Can't wait to make some stew this weekend.

Mega Deals Monday........

2009-09-28T13:39:00.000-07:00

Today was another consignment sale...the last of this season. Boy did i get some great deals!! I only took $50.00 with me this time. And i got soooooo many cute things for my kids. I got this gorgeous white knitted dress coat. Yes i do own the same coat but in Pink...hehe!! But i had wanted a white one aswell. Pink and brown giraffe dress (gymboree), Smocked pants outfit with a cute little snail design, Polkadot pant set, Black & White Pant Outfit (Fantasia Too) and several other cute outfits. Also picked up a buggy cart cover that is just adorable. And a dvd for my little girl that just LOVES Miss Spider. Goodies Galore!!!! :)

Fab Friday......

2009-09-25T11:09:00.000-07:00

So glad it is Friday! Got the hubby home all weekend....and lots to do around the house. Yesterday i went out for the first time by myself with both babies. Useless to go shopping by myself with both of them cause by the time i put baby girl in the seat up front and then baby boy in the back in his carrier....there is no room for groceries...NONE!!! We went to my favorite place to shop these days...Super Target! It is such a treat for me and little bit cause as soon as we walk in the door we head straight for Starbucks and get a White Chocolate Mocha (decaf now that i'm breastfeeding) and a slice of banana nut bread for her. It makes her so happy. So we then take of to wonder the store while sipping my coffee and her indulging in her sweet treat. :) Right now Target is having a sale on pampers diapers...yippie for me! I grabbed the supper big box and put it in the only place i could find in the buggy...bottom. Then we went to the baby clothing section. Ok ladies...target is stepping up their clothing. I found so many absolutely adorable things for my little girl. Tops that are totally monogrammable, stripped sweaters with matching tights, polka dot jackets and a red pea coat that is just to cute. Then we mosied over to the toy section cause i'm going to have my christmas shopping done this year before Thanksgiving! Picked up a few things for both the kiddies. I had to pick up baby boy and stuff things in the buggy under his carrier. HA! So all in all it was a good "first" outing with them.

Baking an Old Fashion Chocolate Fudge Pie for the Weekend.....

Ingredients:

2 squares (2-ounces) semisweet chocolate
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
1 cup sugar
2 eggs, beaten
1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust

Directions

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Melt the chocolate and butter together in a heavy saucepan over low heat. Remove the pan from the heat and add the sugar, then the eggs; beat well. Pour the filling into the pie crust and bake for 25 minutes or until just set. Serve warm or cold, with ice cream or whipped cream.

Servings: 6 to 8 servings
Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 28 min

Hoping everyone has a wonderfully fun weekend.
xo

Husband.......

2009-09-24T08:07:00.000-07:00

I love and adore my husband. No doubt. But sometimes especially now that we have kids...i forget to thank him and tell him how much i appreciate him. I tend to get more agitated these days and it usually comes out on him. I have been praying about this lately and reading about how to be a better christian wife. As i was "wondering" other blogs i came across this. I thought it was a good read...just a few sweet things you can do for your hubby to make him feel loved......

15 Ways to Please Your Husband

by Barbara Rainey

Romans 15:2-3 tells us, "Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, to his edification. For even Christ did not please Himself . . ." Who is your closest neighbor?

Your husband. How can you edify (build, improve) your mate and thereby enhance his self-worth? By discovering—and doing—what pleases him.

If you are creative, pleasing your mate may be a natural part of your personality. But a less creative person may need some coaching in becoming a partner pleaser. And all of us need an occasional cue card to remind us to reach out. Here are a few ideas:

1. Write him a letter and send it to his office, or put a love note in his lunchbox or briefcase.

2. Prepare his favorite meal.

3. Arrange an evening out for just the two of you.

4. Wear his favorite dress with your hair done the way he likes it.

5. Purchase something small and frivolous for him that he won't buy himself.

6. Give him a nicely framed picture of yourself, or of you and the children, for his office.

7. Surprise him with an all-expense-paid trip to do something he likes, such as golf, fishing, or hunting trip.

8. Put the children to bed early and prepare a candlelight dinner.

9. Do something that especially pleased him when you were dating.

10. Read Scriptures and pray with him regularly.

11. Take walks together.

12. Keep your junk out of the garage.

13. Greet your husband warmly after work.

14. Wear his favorite negligee or buy a new nightgown to add sizzle to your evening attire.

15. Clean out the car for him.

Sometimes the smallest gestures can make the biggest difference in your marriage.

Pick out something you haven't tried before; don't give complacency a foothold in your marriage relationship.

Happy 1 month............

2009-09-23T11:24:00.000-07:00

My little man is 1 month old!! I can't believe he has been here in our lives for a whole month. He is such a good baby. Sleeps well. Eats really well and is growing so fast. His big sister is doing good with him too. :) I couldn't ask for better kids.

I know, I know....my blogroll is looking very long these days. HA! I keep finding these great blogs and this is the easiest way to keep up with them.

Tomorrow night is the preview for the new show Flashforward! I can't wait. The previews just pull me in.

I'm a huge LOST fan and i'm hoping that this is just as good.

NEW on the Menu:

Tator Tot Casserole
2-3 cups frozen tater tots (no need to thaw)
1 cup chopped onions, sauteed in butter (I just use dry onion flakes)
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 small jar Cheese Whiz
1 1/2 pounds ground beef, browned and drained
1 can of water

Put tater tots in large baking dish. Pour meat and onions over tater tots. Heat soup, water, and Cheese Whiz. Pour over meat and onions. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes until bubbly.

Trying.......

2009-09-21T10:34:00.000-07:00

Ok...so after my last post i tried to get motivated to do some organization and clean up. After our move nothing seemed to get put in the right place and it seems as though my "spring cleaning" back at the other house didn't move with us. SO...i'm at it again. Well atleast in theory. HA! I'm going to try to get the bulk of my "fall cleaning" done this week. It seems if i blog about it i try alittle harder at actually doing it. Motivation!! Today is bathrooms. I found this to help me keep my mind on what is at hand.....

Fast Bathroom Organization and Clean Up:

Find 2 good-sized boxes and bring them into the bathroom. Collect all the items on the bathroom counter, in drawers and cupboards, and put them into the boxes. All means everything. Don't leave a single thing out, including soap, toothbrushes, and deodorant.
If you can sort the things in the boxes, do so. Mark one box Must Have and the other Optional.
Clean off every surface, including the counters, cupboards, shelves, drawers and everything you've decided you need to keep. Wipe everything dry with a towel.
Start to replace items, beginning with the medicine cabinet. Put back only the things that you can not live without or use frequently. This prime location should have only essential items in it.
Place clean decorative item back onto the countertop. The counter is not a storage place. It's for items you use daily or are part of the decor.
Set conveniently-sized drawer dividers into the drawers. Place often-used items by category. Have a section for hair items, makeup, shaving supplies, nail care items, etc.
Store bathroom cleaning supplies under the sink, placed neatly on one side of the cupboard. Place extra bath items neatly on the other side, keeping the two categories separated. Turntables made for kitchen items work well under the sink, as they make it easy to get at tall bottles. Simply turn the turntable around and you'll be able to grab the shampoo or conditioner.
If you have extra room in the cabinet under the sink, collect small items into plastic shoe boxes with lids and stack them to save space. Label the boxes. You'll be able to see what's in the boxes, but the items will stay orderly until you need them.
As you're going through things to put back in the cupboards, consider whether you really need them. Get rid of half-used products that you don't like and will never use. Toss those small sample bottles of products that you got free-with-purchase. Remember - less is more!
If there are things in either of the boxes you used for sorting, you probably don't need them. If they don't fall into the must-have category, you should get rid of them.
If there are any things that you don't need now but can't part with, store them somewhere else. Get them out of the bathroom and out of sight.
If you've followed the first 11 steps, you can now enjoy your neat, orderly, and organized "new" bathroom. Congratulations to you!

Tips:

It's much easier to do this job if you're not distracted. Try to map out an hour where you won't be distracted. If you can't finish the job in one work session, you might be tempted to just throw everything back where it was. Best to get it done all at once!
Wipe off everything you take out of the drawers and off shelves as you remove them. Then clean the shelves and drawers too. When it's time to put things back, they'll be ready.
Follow the rule 'when in doubt, throw it out!' The less you have the better things will look.

What You Need:

Two boxes to sort all your stuff
Cleaning rags
Cleaning products

Well see what we can do tomorrow. :)

Shades of Blue........

2009-09-21T08:04:00.000-07:00

Today i'm feeling kinda blue. Don't know how to explain it but just not feeling myself. Maybe cause i'm deliriously tired. HA! Baby boy cries from 4:00pm to midnight the past few nights. Colic?? The weather has been blah lately....just lots and lots of dreary rainy days. Love to see the rain but can't get out with the little ones. And the house is in need of a good cleaning and i don't have the motivation to do so. Also the babies have been sick. Yuck! I'm in need of some Beach Rehab. :) Yes that would be just the ticket right now. hehe!

Goodies......

2009-09-17T09:43:00.000-07:00

Can a girl have "TO MANY" clothes? I think so. Today i tried to tackle my daughters closet and it was a job. She had an abundance of summer clothing. In fact i'm struggling to make sure she wears all the cute things at least once. But now i'm wanting her to start wearing her new cute fall items. Yesterday i went to a local consignment sale looking for some fall and winter clothes for her and got a few things...i was alittle disappointed in what i found. Nothing at all like what i found for her at last years consignment sale. Anyway... i had already put back a "few" things last fall for her that i had got on sale and forgot about so that is good. There are 2 more sales that i want to hit up in the next few weeks though. Maybe i will find a few more things. I only found her 2 smocked items...but they are super cute!! I'm so in love with the christmas smocked dress i found it is brand new with tags. I'm a sucker for polkadots! :) I also found her 2 very cute dress coats for church. 1 pair of jeans. 2 Gymboree outfits that are perfect for fall. 1 reversable "Kellys Kids" dress that she is going to wear to the pumpkin patch. A Kelly's Kids Jumper that is perfect for monogramming. 1 white sweater that i'm going to have monogrammed too. And 5 Big boutique bows. Bright pink, light pink, white, black and pink and brown. That is it for the clothes. I did find 2 Great toys too! That is it. I wanted to find some shoes but no luck there. And absolutly nothing for baby boy! :(

Fall.....

2009-09-14T10:13:00.000-07:00

Fall is in the air. The brisk morning air is so very nice. I seem to like fall...i love looking at new fall fashion. I love fall colors. I love Making my little girl a little Halloween outfit. Carving pumpkins, hay rids, corn field mazes. But then again there is something about fall that makes me sad...perhaps it is the ending of summer. Summer is my favorite season. And with fall...winter is just around the corner. I don't like the cold. The only good thing about winter is the Holidays and seeing family. Snow is only good for vacations! HA! I hate driving in snow. I hate grey winter days and being stuck indoors. Having to wear big bulky clothes. Just not as nice as summer i suppose. I'm a florida girl...born there....lived there for several years. To me it just isn't christmas without putting up your christmas tree in shorts and flip flops...HA!!

Thank You Paula..........

2009-09-04T10:34:00.000-07:00

Oh MY!!! I was feeding baby boy in the wee hours of the night...and i happened upon Paula Dean's show. She was making this baked bean dish from some ladies who wrote in. I can't wait to try this recipe out! Also she showed her take on grilled corn on the cob. YUMMY!!!!!! This looks marvelous.

Here are the recipes..................

Ingredients:
1 (6 ounce) can French fried onions, crushed
5 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
2 tablespoon yellow or brown mustard
1 cup Paula Deen’s Original BBQ sauce
1 cup molasses
1 (20 ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
4 (16 ounce) cans of baked beans
Salt and freshly ground pepper

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In large bowl, mix together beans, pineapples, molasses, BBQ sauce, bacon, and a third of the onions. Add some salt and pepper to taste. Pour beans in 9-by-13 casserole dish and sprinkle remaining crushed onions and bacon on top. Cook in oven for 1 hour or until beans brown and bubble. Serve warm.

Yield: 12 Servings
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Ease of preparation: Easy

Recipe courtesy Sue Mittelman and Gloria Zucker

Servings:
Prep Time: 25 min
Cook Time: 1 hour
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

INGREDIENTS

1/2 cup mayonnaise
5 ears corn, husk and silk removed
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper

DIRECTIONS

Preheat an outdoor grill for medium-high heat and lightly oil grate.
Brush a thin layer of mayonnaise on each ear of corn. Sprinkle the corn with the Parmesan cheese, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Wrap each ear with aluminum foil and place on the grill.
Grill, turning occasionally, until the kernels begin to brown, about 10 minutes.

Baby Love......

2009-08-29T18:05:00.000-07:00

Our Sweet Baby Boy is Here!

Brown Bag Apple Pie...........

2009-08-17T07:00:00.000-07:00

Has anyone ever heard of a Brown Bag Apple Pie? I heard of this yesterday and i'm quite sure i want to make one. I will be searching this today. If anyone has a recipe on this please do tell.... :)

Fall Shopping......

2009-08-11T11:58:00.000-07:00

So i went online today to look at Strasburg's new fall line. And what did i find?? Lower prices!!!! That is great news for a frugal mom that loves to put my little Southern Bell in Strasburg clothing. Gearing up for fall i'm getting all of last years clothes out to consign. Sales start around the end of August and first of September around here. As i have said before it is the best place to find gently worn or new items at GREAT prices.

Baby Boy is still Baking away....i'm so ready for him to get here. Got his bedding all ready and clothes all washed. My baby shower was AWESOME!!! He got everything he could possibly need and more. One of the ladies even hand smocked a little outfit for him. :) They all know me all to well and know that I LOVE anything smocked!! hehe!!

I have been making my list of things i need to get started sewing on. Can't wait to start making baby boy some little outfits and things. I will be blogging about those soon. :) As for now i'm just trying to keep up with my little 18 month old and much to tired to start on anything else. Not to mention i don't have my sewing room up and running. It is being used as a storage area right now while we are still working away on our new house. Good news though....our Master bedroom should be done by this weekend! Can't wait, Can't wait to decorate!!!!

This & That ......

2009-07-31T11:24:00.000-07:00

Has anyone out there used the "Bumpits" and liked the results?? I really want to try it but i wonder if it really works. Target now carries them and i'm tempted to go get one. hehe!!

I have been keeping an eye out on all the consignment sales flyer's for this fall. I can't wait. Consignment sale shopping has become my favorite twice a year stock up time for my little girl and now my little guy. It is such a money saver for thrifty moms. You get like new items for a fraction of the price new. So much fun seeking out those boutique items you have been eyeing but don't want to spend $50+ for. Then i have a little extra to spend on accessories. Bows, shoes or even monogramming. I resale my daughters clothing aswell. But sometimes i have a hard time letting go of some things. They just are so darn cute!

I was watching the news and yet again the "Jon and Kate" issue came up. I so loved watching that show. But now i can't even stomach it. It is so sad. It needs to be took off the air. For the kids sake!!! Actually it should have been of the air 2 seasons ago..... I guess that is all i have to say on that.

We are still working on trying to fix the wall paper disaster!!! It is such a mess! We just want to scream and bop someone over the head for putting it up in almost every room in the house. HA! Slowly but surely the house is coming along though. I had a friend over a few days ago and she couldn't understand why we bought a house that needed updating. I said it is a diamond in the rough....it will be nice and we will be able to sit back and look around and say "look what we did"! :) And enjoy our house and yard that we worked for. But as for now i guess people think we are crazy. I happen to enjoy personalizing a home. Nothing like new paint and new flooring and some updating to make you feel good about doing something yourself. But that is just me. I'm a DIY'r! Well when i'm not hugely pregnant anyway. hehe!!

Well that is enough rambling today i guess. More on the house updates later.

All Moved In......

2009-07-29T07:26:00.000-07:00

All moved in but not all unpacked. We are still in the process of remodeling our new home. Right now it feels as if we are playing musical rooms. HA! TV is in the dinning Room, Baby girl is in what will be baby boy's room, the hubby and i are in what will be baby girls room while the master is being worked on. So many projects going on at one time....it is CRAZY! Oh and by the way whoever invented wall paper....i'm not to happy with at the moment. We have finally found something that "kinda" works on taking it all down but it still is a pain. We tried the steamer...big mistake! We have now moved on to trying the chemical stuff and it is working some better. But still not doing a great job.....slow it goes. We are hoping to be done with the master by this weekend. I can't wait to paint it and put our furniture in it.

On to baby news. I'm having a baby shower soon. Can't wait... :) I don't have many more weeks to go. I can't wait to see my little boy. And i can't wait to see how little girl is going to act when he gets here...haha! I have his bedding all sewn up and i can't wait to get his room all decorated.

My Handy Man.......

2009-07-14T08:22:00.000-07:00

Good thing my hubby is so very talented and handy and VERY understanding of me being hugely pregnant and unable to do anything or help out with any project in our new house. He is doing it all! By the way.....remodeling a house....tons of work and labor. But totally worth the money you save on having someone else do it. Only draw back....it takes for EVER!!! I keep telling myself....it is going to be great once it is all done....hehe!! Right now we have a time line...as long as the Kitchen is done by the holidays i will be a happy camper. :)

Fried Pies.........

2009-07-09T16:55:00.000-07:00

Ok....i know i have had more posts about food than any other thing these past months. BUT i'm always hungry and always up for a good recipe! :) I just want to say ....THANK YOU to the Southern Plate Blog for this yummy recipe......

Fried Peach Pies
Filling

■6-7 ounces dried fruit (I used peaches, can use apples, apricots, or other dried fruit)
■1 cup sugar
■2 cups water
■1/4 cup butter or margarine
■1 T lemon juice (optional, but I use it)
■1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional, but I use it)

Dough

■2 Cups Flour
■1 Tsp salt
■1/2 C shortening
■1/2 C of milk (can add a little more if needed)
Place dried fruit in a pot and add water. Bring to a boil and reduce heat to simmer until fruit is tender. Add other ingredients and mash together with a potato masher or fork. Set aside while dough is prepared.

In medium bowl, place flour and salt. Stir together. Cut in shortening with a long tined fork. Add in milk and stir until dough sticks together. Divide into ten portions. Roll each portion out on a floured surface into a five or six inch circle. Place two tablespoons of filling in each. Wet the edges and fold over, crimping with a fork.

Cook in oil which has been heated on medium heat, until browned on both sides, turning as needed. Remove to paper towel lined plate.

This is her take on Making the Pies.......photo by photo........ i swear...it looks so good i could lick the computer screen.....hehe!!!

ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ...............

2009-07-07T20:15:00.000-07:00

Found this tutorial on Magnetic ABC's.....going to have to make Little miss Cutie Patootie soom for our new fridge.

Supplies:

5 sheets 5x8 inch self adhesive magnet sheets (found at the dollar store)
fabric (i used fat quarters)
scissors
exacto knife
mod podge
paint brush to brush mod podge

1. to get a template for the letters, open a Word document. type a-z in the font titled "arial black" make it bold, and size 225. set your margins to "narrow" so more letters can be on each page.

2. cut letters out using scissors

3. cut fabric to fit sheets of magnets. take paper off of the magnet and stick fabric to the sticky stuff.

4. place letter on top, while holding it with your hand, cut around each letter. for letters with holes in the middle, use an exacto knife to cut.

5.when you are completely finished step 4 with all the letters. lay letters out on wax paper. begin brushing a thin layer of mod podge on the letters one at a time making sure to go right to the edge. let air dry for 10-15 minutes. place on any magnetic surface and you are done!

July 4th.......

2009-07-02T15:06:00.000-07:00

Going to be M.I.A for probably several days. Just want to wish everyone a HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!!!!!! We are going to be working on updating our new house...but we will have some time for grilled burgers...hehe!

Can't Believe........

2009-06-26T11:26:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that Michael Jackson has passed away. So very sad. I have always enjoyed his music. Thriller is always in my vehicle for road trips........

Baby Bedding & Packing To Do List.......

2009-06-23T10:31:00.001-07:00

Today i have alot going on. I'm starting my Packing List.

(Tuesday)- First off i'm going to start in the Kitchen and pack everything that i wont need the next 3 weeks or so. Ya know kitchen Tchotchkies and decorations and curtains and those extra sets of plates and glasses. Just trying to leave the bare minimum. Also going to get started on the Bed Skirt for baby boys bedding i'm sewing for him. I got all my material yesterday and I can't wait to get started. What do you think of the Fabric?? Strips, Polka dots, Toile and Chenille....a southern girls dream fabrics....hehe!!! I thought it was very Vintage looking and will go with lots of vintage boys toys. Planes, cars.......

(Wednesday) - Packing up the Living Room. Also going around the house and packing up all Pictures and Paintings. Possibly start on the Sheet for baby boys bedding.

(Thursday) - Packing up Baby Girls room...closet. Just leaving favorite toys and books and clothes at the moment. Also going to pack up Linen & Coat Closets. Going to start work on the Bumper Pad too.......

(Friday) - Start Packing Guest/Computer Room and Master Bedroom. Possibly work on the Baby Blanket for the set.

(Saturday) - REST.....Hang out with the Family!!!! :)

It's going to be a busy week....but that seems to be how i roll. hehe!

Lazy HOT Summer Daze In The South........

2009-06-22T10:32:00.000-07:00

It has been a HOT week here in the south. And i'm very preggers! I tried to get started packing this weekend and didn't get very far. I'm afraid it is going to be a long process...and i have NO energy. What was i thinking.......

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!!!!!

2009-06-21T19:47:00.000-07:00

Happy Father's Day!

A little girl needsDaddyFor many, many things:
Like holding her high off the groundWhere the sunlight sings!
Like being the deep musicThat tells her all is rightWhen she awakens frantic withThe terrors of the night.
Like being the great mountainThat rises in her heartAnd shows her how she might get homeWhen all else falls apart.
Like giving her the loveThat is her sea and air,So diving deep or soaring highShe'll always find him there.

Author unknown

BLT Quesadilla Wrap.......

2009-06-11T13:42:00.001-07:00

Dinner Time!!!! Doesn't this look just yummy??!! Found it on themamadramalogues.blogspot.com. Just as i was thinking of what to make for dinner. :)

BLT Quesadilla Wrap

tsp butter or nonstick spray

1 flour tortilla

1/4 c shredded cheese

3 slices of cooked bacon, cut in half2-3

tomato slices

a little spinach or lettuce

Ranch dressing (If you don't like Ranch, you can use mayo. Or leave it out entirely.)

Heat a large skillet to medium heat. Add butter to skillet and allow to melt. Lay the tortilla in the skillet and add cheese and bacon to one side of the tortilla. Fold in half. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway through, until both sides have brown spots and the tortilla is somewhat crisp.Transfer quesadilla to a plate and open it very carefully.

Lay the tomato slices and spinach leaves down the middle. Drizzle a little ranch dressing over top, then beginning at one side, roll the tortilla up. Eat immediately. Before someone sees you and wants a bite.

Makes one wrap.

Paint, Flooring, Kitchens...OH MY!!!!!!!!!

2009-06-10T13:21:00.000-07:00

Me and my sweet little girl went to Lowe's today to look at Paint colors for the new house. She is getting a sweet PINK in her room while baby brother is getting a dark beige. Livingroom, Kitchen, Hall, Entryway, Diningroom will be getting a neutral "Kacky" color. And the Master suit and Bath is going to be a steel/blue/grey shade (if you can imagine that)...hehe! As for the Guest Bath...still not to sure. Went on over to the flooring department and picked out the carpet for the kids rooms. And looked at some Travertine for the Kitchen. Then on to Cabinets, and granite....that is still being discussed. WOW!!! Way to many decisions to make in a short amount of time. But i still can't wait to close on the house and start on the demo!

Pivot........

2009-06-08T11:42:00.000-07:00

OK....this is one of my favorite from Friends. As i picture us moving....i also picture some funny moments like this..... :)

Great News......

2009-06-08T09:13:00.001-07:00

We have found a house and are (cross your fingers) closing by the end of the month!!! YIPPIE!!! I can't wait to get in and start Decorating :) The back yard is absolutely wonderful. It is going to be great for the kids. That is the first thing i imagined when i got a look at the back yard. It is HUGE! The inside of the house needs a few updates...thank goodness my hubby is so handy. House Demo is right up his ally...hehe! The one good thing about this house is that it has PLENTY of storage. Oh and it also has all original Hard Wood floors thru out. NO CARPET. NO TILE. We have decided to carpet the kids rooms and tile the bathrooms and kitchen though. SO that is what i have been looking at all morning. And pretty sure that i have found what i want to carpet the kids rooms in. PRESTIGE/FRIEZE CARPET. I absolutely love it. It isn't supposed to mat down and great for high traffic. And best of all kid friendly and hides stains very well. We want to go with the tan or beige color. Updates to come later.

Family Trip........

2009-06-04T08:03:00.000-07:00

We are leaving today to go see family. Can't wait for little miss sunshine to see her Aunts, Uncles, Grandma's, Granddaddy's, cousins, and everyone! I'm ready for a vacation!

Sunscreen, Check. Bug Spray, Check. Toothbrushes, Check. Hours and Hours of DVD's, Check!

Veggie Wrap......

2009-05-26T15:12:00.000-07:00

Blog: Cooking is Medicine

Veggie Wrap

1 tortillahummus (see "recipe" below)

lettuce

tomatoes

red onion

cucumber

olive (not on this one but would be GREAT!)

goat cheese

Spread hummus on one side of the tortilla and goat cheese on the other side. Place lettuce on one side. Top with tomatoes, onion, cucumber, and olives. Roll and enjoy!

Hummus

1 can chickpeas, drained2 Tablespoons olive oilsaltparsleygarlic or garlic powder1/2 cup waterPlace all ingredients (except water) in food processor. Process (!). Gradually add water until processor runs smoothly. Taste and season as desired. Be careful not to add too much salt!

Muffuletta Pinwheels......

2009-05-26T15:03:00.000-07:00

From: Cooking is Medicine Blog

Muffuletta Pinwheels

2 packs of cressent rolls

1 10 oz. bottle of spanish (green) olives

1 10 oz. bottle of black olives

5 garlic cloves, minced

a dash garlic powder

~1/4 cup olive oil (Just put enough that it looks "right" to you)

8 sliced deli ham

4 slices provolone cheese

5 cheese Italian blend (if desired)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Chop the olives (both). Mix with garlic, garlic powder, and olive oil. Open the crescent rolls (there are four "rectangles" per package). Press down each rectangle until slightly larger than it started. Going the length of the rectangle, place two half pieces of ham on the dough (you will have one piece of ham per rectange). If your ham pieces are small then you could you 2 pieces. On top of the ham, place 1/4 piece of provolone cheese (1/2 piece per rectangle). Spoon some olive salad over this. It is around 1-2 Tablespoons;

if there is too much you'll know - it won't roll! Sprinkle the extra cheese on this if using it -recommed using it! Roll from the stuffed side toward the other. Use a serrated knife to cut the pinwheels. Place in a greased round cake pan (as you would place cinnamon rolls) almost touching. Bake for around 11 minutes or until slightly browned. Remove and enjoy!

Fabric Softener........

2009-05-26T07:47:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had a glorious Memorial Day Weekend. Me and little bit enjoyed having the hubby around an extra day. :)

Today is another rainy day here in the south. Great day for Coffee (decaf unfortunately) and spending time reading and playing with my little girl. Not much energy these days. My baby countdown says only 101 days left. :) Still thinking of a names for the little guy. Still looking for ideas for his nursery too. Today i think i will work on some burp cloths and pee pee teepees. hehe!

Well I was at good'ol WalMart this weekend... and i went down the fabric softener isle to smell out a new scent someone told me about. I picked up one i thought i would like...came home and finished my laundry with my new fabric softener. Loved the new smell. I wanted to wash my whole house in it. I got online to do some more research on some of the other new "flavors" and when i googled fabric softener the work TOXIC came up. WHAT??? So i took the time to check it out and this is what i found. Fabric Softener is one of the most toxic...chemical added thing you can put on your clothes! Here is the link check it out for yourself...........

http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Toxic-Danger-of-Fabric-Softener-and-Dryer-Sheets&id=16953

Now i'm so afraid to use it.

Happy Memorial Day!!!

2009-05-25T12:39:00.001-07:00

Spinach and Mushroom Chicken

2009-05-22T10:26:00.000-07:00

I found this recipt at "Poop on Jelly" blog. Sounded so good i think i will make it tonight......

4-6 chicken breastsfresh spinach
16 oz. WHOLE mushrooms
Kraft sundried tomato dressing

Place chicken in a 13x9 pan and cover with dressing. Top with as much spinach as you like. (Remember that it will cook down, so be generous.) Top with mushrooms. Top with some more dressing. Bake (covered with foil) at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes, until chicken is cooked through.

Doesn't it look yummy!!??

Note To Self.......

2009-05-07T11:02:00.000-07:00

Ok...i have found plenty of recipes i like today. And as you can see i have posted them all. HA! Well my blog serves as a "Note to Self". I found this cute recipe that i have to remember come next valentines day. :)

Lots of Lovin' Cinnamon Rolls

Dough Ingredients:(or use a loaf of frozen bread dough, let is rise, and join us at assembly directions)

Dry ingredients2 cups unsifted unbleached floured

¼ c sugar

1 Tbs salt

2 packages of active dry yeastIn sauce pan heat up (until just warm, not boiling):

2 ¼ c. milk

¼ c. cooking oil

Dough Directions:Mix dry ingredients together in a large mixing bowl. Add 1 egg to flour mixture along with warmed liquid from sauce pan.Beat it for 30 sec. on low speed, followed by 3 minutes on medium speed.By hand, gradually stir in 4-5 cups of flour to make a soft dough.Kneed it on a floured surface until smooth and elastic, about 1 minute.After kneeding let it rise covered in a warm place until doubled (45-60 minutes).

Assembly Directions:Punch down dough. Separate dough into two equal portions. Roll out to form two large squares (about 9 x 11 inches). Spread ¼ c. melted butter on top of dough. Sprinkle cinnamon and sugar to heart’s desire (be generous with cinnamon and sugar).

Slice rolls with dental floss about 1 ½ inches thick. Pinch bottom to form heart shape. Place on greased cookie sheets. Cover and let rise for another 45-60 minutes.

Bake for 13-18 minutes at 350 degrees. Frost with your favorite icing tinted with just a drop of red food coloring. We used buttercream icing, but cream cheese is good, too! (click on the frosting names for recipes). Enjoy!

Pork Loin.......

2009-05-07T10:56:00.000-07:00

Ingredients:
Large Pork Loin (around 8 lbs., about $1.58 per lb. at Sams)
coarse Kosher Saltliquid smoke (in the spice aisle)
Sandwich rolls,
any kindPlastic WrapAluminum Foil

Directions:Preheat oven to 225 degrees. Cut pork loin in half. Lay out two large sheets of aluminum foil. Lay two large sheets of plastic wrap on top of foil. Place half of pork loin on the plastic wrap (this keeps the moisture in! It's an amazing slow-roasting secret!:)). Sprinkle generously with kosher salt and liquid smoke, rub all over pork loin. Wrap up plastic wrap tightly around pork loin and then wrap with aluminum foil. Place in large roasting pan. Repeat with other loin half. Bake at 225 degrees 7-10 hrs. until done.
Serve with soft rolls, cheese, bbq sauce, whatever your family likes. YUM!

Great Kid friendly Snack........

2009-05-07T10:52:00.000-07:00

Breakfast is sometimes hard, you want something easy, quick, and healthy. These have been a favorite around here for awhile.

What do your kids like for breakfast?

Banana Dogs:Ingredients:
Hot Dog Bun
BananaPeanut ButterWheat Germ or sunflower seeds (optional)

Strawberry JamDirections:
Spread hot dog bun with PButter and sprinkle wheat germ on top. Top with a banana and jam "ketchup". Yum!

Yummy New Snack.....

2009-05-07T10:05:00.000-07:00

While surfing other blogs i found this on Gourmet Mom on-the-Go!

Banana Nut Cheerio Bars (from Cheerios)

Ingredients:3 tablespoons margarine or butter (do not use spread or tub products)

1 bag (10.5 oz) miniature marshmallows

(5 1/2 cups)6 cups Banana Nut Cheerios cereal

1/3 cup roasted sunflower nuts

1/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips

1 teaspoon canola oil

Directions:1. Spray 13x9-inch pan with cooking spray. In large microwavable bowl, microwave margarine uncovered on High 30 to 45 seconds or until melted. Add marshmallows; toss until coated. Microwave uncovered on High 1 minute 15 seconds to 1 minute 45 seconds, stirring every 30 seconds, until mixture can be stirred smooth.2. Stir in cereal and sunflower nuts until well blended. Press evenly in pan.3. In small microwavable bowl, microwave chocolate chips and oil uncovered on High 45 to 60 seconds, stirring very 15 seconds, until melted and smooth. Drizzle over bars.4. Cool 1 hour or until glaze is set. For bars, cut into 6 rows by 4 rows. Store loosely covered.

Optional: Melt a few peanut butter chips and drizzle those on as well. Yum!

Happy Friday......

2009-05-01T12:56:00.000-07:00

Today was a super rainy day. Got up this morning and cleaned the house and did all the laundry and now it is time to relax. Tonight is Mexican night. Makin some Enchiladas! Yummy. Me and the hubby and little girl have a movie lined up from Netflix. We are going to have just a good'ol lazy/rainy afternoon and night. This weekend we have another house lined up to look at. We have already seen the property once but the second time you see alot more than you did the first. It is promising! :) Lots of room to plant a garden and orchard. Lots of room to expand. And best of all....lots of room for our daughter to run around and play outside!

Hope everyone has a great weekend!

Weekend Fun.......

2009-04-28T10:46:00.000-07:00

We had a wonderful weekend. Enjoyed the great weather! We are currently looking for a new dwelling. We want something with land and small house to start...add on later as our family grows. We went and looked at a beautiful piece of land in the country with a small OLD farm house on it but it just wasn't what we were looking for. Still looking. Can't wait till we find something more of what we are looking for. I want to be able to have a garden and lots of room for the kid a roo's to run around and play in. I want land ...but i also want to be close to shopping and city life aswell.

Baby Boy Bedding....

2009-04-23T10:34:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking about what colors to do "Baby Boy's" room in. And what kind of theme or print. In true southern fashion i love toile. But for a boy's room...i'm just not to sure? I love Brown and Blue together. I love strips and polka-dots too. I'm just not so sure what i want to do. I have found a few pictures of bedding i like but nothing i love. Anybody out there have any boy bedding pics of their own to share?? Email me or "Link" me and show me pictures of your little ones room. :)

New Hair Do......

2009-04-21T09:53:00.000-07:00

I'm in need of a new hair do. I love having long hair but it gets harder and harder everyday to get it to do what i want it to do....and i don't have the time to spend playing with it anymore. I need a easy "Mommy" cut. Last time i got it cut i had them cut Bangs! Big mastake! I wanted the bangs that you side sweep and tuck behind your ear. She cut them WAY to short. Here are a few pics of ladies with hair i would love to have......

April Showers........

2009-04-20T10:38:00.000-07:00

It is going to be a rainy day today. Looks like me and girly twirly are going to have to stay inside all day. Possibly go out to jump in a few puddles. :) I have a new magazine that came in the mail today that i can look over...and hot chocolate sounds good too. Maybe i can sneek in a little sewing today while she naps. I'm wanting to sew "Brother/Sister" matching outfits for when our little baby boy gets here. I have some blue and white gingham material that i thought would be nice. An "A-line" dress and a matching "Jon Jon". Possibly Brown thread for the Monograming. I think that would look nice for the fall.

What do you like to do on Rainy Days??

HAPPY FRIDAY.........

2009-04-17T12:05:00.001-07:00

It is friday and what a beautiful day it is! Got some house work done today and now me and baby girl are going for a much needed walk. :) And maybe some yard work afterward......

I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!

Wee Wee TeePee's.........

2009-04-14T11:17:00.000-07:00

Found a tutorial Here at littlebirdisecrets: http:///littlebirdiesecrets.blogspot.com/2008/11/i-laughed-out-loud-when-i-heard-name-of.htm

Any Mom's out there with any tips on how to make these? I'm guessing they might come in handy....hehe!

Hand Towel Bib.......

2009-04-14T09:19:00.000-07:00

I found this neat project on Martha Stewart.com today.....

Some bibs underestimate the messes babies can make. Hand-towel bibs cover more than the average bib -- and are so easy to create, you'll want one for every day of the week.
Cut a lollipop-shaped hole for your baby's head in the center of a hand towel. Finish off the cut edges with double-fold bias tape; for the neck hole, leave the ends long enough to tie around your baby's neck.

Boutique Overalls.....

2009-04-14T08:52:00.000-07:00

We have been having some really bad weather the past few weeks. Thunderstorms with High Winds and Tornadoes and such. Last night we were going to get hit again with bad Thunderstorms so i knew i would be staying up late with the weather man keeping an eye one what was going on. So i got a pair of plain denim overalls from Old Navy i snagged at a consignment sale for $5 bucks and some bright flower power fabric and some striped fabric and white ribbon and started working on a pair of "Boutique Overalls" for my little girl. I have been meaning to do this for a while now so this was the perfect opportunity to do it. It ended up being quit a bit of fun. And this is what i have done so far. I'm planning on adding a few more things later on....but so far soooo cute! I can't wait for her to wear them. I also made some Burpies for a friend of mine that has a little boy on the way too.

Boy OH BOY.........

2009-04-10T10:50:00.000-07:00

We found out what we are having today.....and we are so excited to give our little girl a little Brother! :)

"Children come into this world with fresh eyes to see all that is beautiful, embrace all that is joyful, and love unconditionally with open hearts and minds."

Strasburg Sale......

2009-04-08T13:44:00.001-07:00

I was out and about today. So me and lil'girl went into Strasburg. Clearance rack was full of wonderfull buys. I love to go and stock up on next season sales. All christmas dresses were $15 bucks. Can't beat that. So i picked up a few things that i liked for the lady to hold so that when i find out friday what the new baby will be i will be able to have this Christmas's matching outfits for $30. :) Man i love a good sale!! Anyone out there love Strasburg...this sale ends this weekend. So hurry on over to get some great christmas deals.

My Baby Bump.......

2009-04-06T12:56:00.000-07:00

Photo from BabyCenter

Every day i wake up i find myself even bigger. There is no stopping the Belly Bump! Today i was looking at my favorite baby read online....BabyCenter. And here is what my 18.5 week baby looks like (maybe)....hehe!! I do enjoy looking at all the pictures week to week. And soon i will have my own picture to look at. Just another week to go till we find out what our little peanut is. I CAN'T WAIT!! Will my girly girl have a brother or sister?

Happy Monday.....

2009-04-06T09:34:00.000-07:00

Busy weekend. Saturday we worked on the yard and got the patio all cleaned up. Just in time to grill out. It was an absolute beautiful day...75 degrees! Got little Bit a new pair of shoes to stomp around the yard in. She loves being outside. Sunday the hubby went and got her a swing. Her new favorite thing to do. It is only in the 40's today so we will bundle up and go out for a little while today. Last night we had Breakfast for dinner. So yummy. Pancakes, sausage, eggs. I enjoy food way to much. But i'm pregnant....so it is ok right? :)

Baked Felafel Pita Sandwich.....

2009-04-04T16:20:00.000-07:00

Found this recipe that i'm going to have to try....

Doesn't it look yummy?

Here are the ingredients:
For the falafel:1 15-ounce can chickpeas, drained and rinsed1/4 cup minced onion2 cloves garlic, minced2 teaspoons ground cumin1/2 teaspoon ground coriander1/2 teaspoon salt1/4 cup cilantro leaves (tightly packed)1/4 cup parsley leaves (tightly packed)2 tablespoons olive oilPlain, dried breadcrumbs for forming balls (optional)
For the salad:1 cup chopped romaine lettuce2 small tomatoes, seeded and chopped (about 1 cup)
4 whole-wheat pita pocket breads

Tzatziki

Ingredients
Makes 4 cups
3 medium cucumbers, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1/2-inch chunks
2 teaspoons salt
2 cups Homemade Yogurt, or prepared
2 teaspoons minced garlic
2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill
1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

In a colander, toss together cucumbers and 1 teaspoon salt. Place colander in sink, and let cucumbers drain for 20 to 30 minutes.
Press cucumbers to extract excess liquid. Transfer to a bowl; mix in yogurt, garlic, dill, mint, oil, lemon juice, and remaining teaspoon salt. Refrigerate about 1 hour to allow flavors to blend; serve at room temperature.

First, combine all of the falafel ingredients except 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the breadcrumbs in the bowl of my food processor. Processe the mixture for 10 seconds, stop the motor, scrape down the sides of the bowl, and process for 10 more seconds. The ingredients should be well incorporated but the mixture should still be slightly coarse; go through 1 or 2 more processing cycles to achieve this consistency, if necessary.
Divided the mixture by level tablespoons and formed each tablespoonful into a ball. Taking a tip from Vicarious Foodie, lightly roll the falafel balls in plain dried breadcrumbs to help hold them together during baking and placed them on a unlined baking sheet.

Brushe the falafel balls with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and place them in a 425F oven. Bake the falafel in 4 stages. After 10 minutes, rotate baking sheet front to back. After 20 minutes, use a spatula to flip the balls. After 30 minutes, rotate baking sheet front to back again. After 40 minutes, remove the falafel from the oven.
Serve the falafel in pita pockets with the chopped romaine, tomatoes, and tzatziki sauce.

Pink Polkadots......

2009-04-03T11:01:00.000-07:00

Here it is. My version of the T-Shirt Dress. It looks so CUTE on. She loves it. When i put it on her she said "Pretty"! :) One of her favorite words to say. I snagged the shirt $3.50 at Wal-mart (Garanimals)...and the fabric was only $2.44 a yard. So i have some left. What a cute (cheap) dress. I think i will have it monogramed too. What do you think?

Well i'm off to make another dress. I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend.

T-Shirt Dress.......

2009-04-02T12:28:00.000-07:00

I was thinking about making a T-Shirt dress for my lil miss. I have lot of polka dot fabric and this looks like an easy rainy day project. And possibly some matching bloomers. Got the instructions from thelongthread.com.....

Here are the basic instructions:
Supplies:
tee
1/2 yard fabric (for kids)
thread
scissors
measuring tape

Step #1: Wash and dry tee and fabric.
Step #2: Try the tee on to see where you want it to hit. Mark that spot and cut neatly across the bottom.
Step #3: Measure the width of the hem of your t-shirt. Double that and cut your fabric to that width in two pieces. You can decide the length according to your needs.
Step #4: Turn under bottom of one piece of fabric 1/2″ and press. Fold 1/2″ again and sew hem. Repeat for the other piece of fabric.
Step #5: Right sides together, pin the two pieces of fabric together and sew one of the side seams (1/2″ seam allowance).
Step #6: Sew a basting stitch along the top for gathering, leaving bobbin thread long.
Step #7: Right sides together, sew the other side seam, starting at the bottom and leaving about 1/2″ at the top so that you can still adjust the gathers.
Step #8: Turn tee inside out and insert skirt section into the inside of the skirt upside down, with right side of skirt facing right side of tee.
Step #9: Pin seams of skirt to seams of tee. Pins should be on the inside of the skirt. Then pin around, adjusting the gathers evenly as you pin.
Step #10: Sew in place along the basting stitch.
Step #11: Sew overcasting stitch along all seams.

I will post a Photo when i am done. :)

2009-04-02T07:04:00.000-07:00

Today i was thinking about our move. One of my favorite things about moving is decorating a new place. Acquiring new furniture is always nice too. :) But i'm always so torn when it comes to furniture. It has to be practical....kiddaroos running around. But look nice too. I like traditional but i also like modern too. I was looking at Dinning Room furniture this morning and saw lots that i like. But nothing that i love. I can't make up my mind as to round or rectangle or Pub Table. I know i would like to have Leather Chairs. I think with kids that they would be easy clean up and look nice. I'm a photographer so i want to incorporate some of my favorite photos and also some of my art work. Here are a few pictures that i pulled that i like "elements" of each dining room. Still looking for ideas though....something that is more me.

Tacos On My Mind.......

2009-04-01T12:20:00.000-07:00

Navajo Fry Bread

Indian Taco

It is no secret....i LOVE tacos. I would eat them every night if my hubby would let me. I was looking online to find something new to do with tacos and i found this. Indian Taco Recipe with Navajo Fry Bread........I think i will try this tonight. :)

Indian Taco Recipe
1 pound lean ground meat (beef, lamb, venison or pork)1 cup diced o nion4 cooked Navajo Fry Breads (see recipe below) 1 head iceberg lettuce, shredded3 t omatoes, diced2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese1 (3-ounce) can diced green c hiles, drainedSour cream (optional)
In a large frying pan over medium-high heat, brown ground meat and onions until cooked; remove from heat.
Place Fry Bread, cupped side up, on separate plates. Layer ground meat, lettuce, tomatoes, Cheddar cheese, and green chiles onto top of each Fry Brad. top with sour cream, if desired, and either roll up or serve open-faced with a fork.
Makes 4 servings.

Navajo Fry Bread Recipe

1 cup unbleached f lour1/4 teaspoon salt1 teaspoon powdered milk1 teaspoon b aking powder1/2 cup waterVegetable oil for frying
Sift together the flour, salt, powdered milk, and baking powder into a large bowl. Pour the water over the flour mixture all at once and stir the dough with a fork until it starts to form one big clump.
Flour your hands. Using your hands, begin to mix the dough, trying to get all the flour into the mixture to form a ball. NOTE: You want to mix this well, but you do NOT want to knead it. Kneading it will make for a heavy Fry Bread when cooked. The inside of the dough ball should still be sticky after it is formed, while the outside will be well floured.
Cut the dough into four (4) pieces. Using your floured hands, shape, stretch, pat, and form a disk of about 5 to 7 inches in diameter. NOTE: Don’t worry about it being round. Heat the vegetable oil to about 350 degrees F. NOTE: You can check by either dropping a small piece of dough in the hot oil and seeing if it begins to fry, or by dipping the end of a wooden spoon in and seeing if that bubbles. Your oil should be about 1-inch deep in a large cast-iron skillet or other large fryer.
Take the formed dough and gently place it into the oil, being careful not to splatter the hot oil. Press down on the dough as it fries so the top is submersed into the hot oil. Fry until brown, and then flip to fry the other side. Each side will take about 3 to 4 minutes.
Indian Fry Bread can be kept warm in a 200 degree F. oven for up to 1 hour. They refrigerate well and can be reheated in a 350 degree F. oven for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.

Cuban Food......

2009-03-30T11:47:00.000-07:00

Saturday night i got a craving for a Cuban Sandwich. But we now live in a city that there are no Cuban sandwiches to be found. :( So i got online and found a recipe and decided to make my own. Not very hard to make at all. All you need is some Cuban Bread, Sliced ham, Sliced Roasted Pork, Swiss Cheese, mustard and pickles. I used one skillet to heat and one to press. YUM! I also fried up some plantains to go on the side. Me and the hubby and little girl had a great Cuban night! I will have to do it again.....SOON.

Friday Love......

2009-03-27T08:31:00.001-07:00

I absolutly LOVE fridays. My husband comes home and the whole family gets a few days to relax and enjoy the time together. Tonight is Taco night. Yippie!! I'm also going to make "Monkey Munch"....yum! Whoever made up that recipe...Thank You. It is still raining outside today so no going out for a walk today...but me and Little one are going to make it a fun inside "rainy friday". I still have a few things i would like to sew up so who knows what i will end up sewing this weekend. Last night i made a lovely pillow/bed for my Yorkie. It is black and white toile. He enjoyed sleeping on it last night. :) Well i'm off to enjoy the day........

Everyone have a wonderful weekend!!!!

Rainy Daze.........

2009-03-25T07:46:00.000-07:00

Today it is pretty nasty outside. Perfect day to clean up the house, play dress up with my little girl, read books and maybe even sew something up... :) I actually have something in mind. I will post back later with pictures...........

Here it is....this is what i ended up sewing. Not much of a project. Just a Diaper Ditty Bag. It holds her wipes case and 4 or 5 diapers. I have wanted to make her one for so long....it was so easy i don't know why i didn't make it sooner.

Hello Sunshine.......

2009-03-24T07:15:00.001-07:00

Oh how i want to plant something so badly.....

I have been away for awhile. Mostly enjoying all this beautiful weather we are having. My daughter just loves getting in her stroller and going for a walk. And i love the exercise. I want so badly to start a garden but alas we are going to be moving soon. If not out of state....to a house with more room for our growing family. In the 9 years that i have been married i have lived in 4 states. I just want to get somewhere and stay put for awhile. I'm tired of packing and unpacking. Yuck. The only upside to it is that we get rid of allot of junk each move. After my "spring cleaning" i got rid of quit a bit. But we still need to purge some more. I'm trying.

Craft Monday......

2009-03-16T08:25:00.000-07:00

Today i'm going to try my hand at "making up" a pattern. I keep seeing this cute little outfit that i want for my daughter but i'm not going to pay $60 for it. I just know i can make it for way less. But i can't seem to find a pattern for it. So i'm going to take some measurements and get to work on it today. :) Friday i did manage to finish my sewing project. A girly garment bag! My little girl has so many beautiful dresses that i wanted a garment bag to put some of them in to keep them looking good and also have something for travel. It turned out so cute! I think i'm going to make a nother one to match for me...ha!

Good Deals......

2009-03-13T08:38:00.000-07:00

Yesterday it was cold again.....40's and rain. So i bundled up little miss and we went to our local Costco to do some Bulk shopping. Lots of good deals. Huggies--a 224 box only $40! 700 wipes for $14!! 380 cups of Folgers coffee for $7 !! Music to my frugal ears. :) I'm a stay at home mom and find it my job to make my husbands hard earned money go as far as possible. I have a good friend that likes to shop thiftfully too so that helps cause we keep an eye out for good deals together. Anybody just love their local Goodwill? Where i live now doesn't have the best one but i still like to pop in every once in a while. Back home were family is .....has a GREAT goodwill and i try to hit it up EVERY time i go. I always find several Great deals. And the best thing is that everything that i find is always BRAND NEW with tags still on it. The hubby really likes that! Now if only the weather would warm up and stay warm i could plant a few things so that i can save on my grocery bill. hehe!

Today it is cold and raining again so i'm going to get my patterns out and see what i can do. I have some nice fabric that is just waiting to be made into something......
Maybe i will post back later with a picture of what i make. :)

What Great Weather !!!!!

2009-03-10T09:03:00.000-07:00

This weekend it was absolutely beautiful! :) Couldn't have asked for better weather. Mid-70's !! And it is still warm outside. Me and the Family got out Saturday for a stroll at the Local Mall....were in the summer time they have a carousel and gondola rides. I was hoping that the Carousel was open but it was not. So we just walked around enjoying the sun. We stopped at Maggie Moo to get a Ice Cream to split since they are huge. Strawberry Landslide (strawberries, oreos and fudge) ...yummy!

Yesterday i was feeling quit crummy. I'm at 14 weeks and still having some morning sickness. I hope it goes away soon. I'm so excited to be in my 2nd trimester though. Not many more weeks till we get to see what we are having. :) I can't wait to find out. This pregnancy has been really different from my first. First of all...i'm already huge! Is there anybody out there that was the same when expecting your second?

Today i'm feeling some better so me and my girl are going for a fun walk today. The rest of the week it is supposed to rain so we better enjoy it while we can.

Friday: Garage........

2009-03-06T09:09:00.001-08:00

This is a picture of the chocolate and creamcheese icing goodies i made last night. Nothing pretty but they were sooooo very yummy.........

Yesterday was absolutly georgous....65 degrees. So i decided to take little bit to the play ground. It was her first time to go down the slide...of course i went down with her. And she absolutly LOVED it. I'm just itching for spring...but i will have to take what i can get right now. Today is supposed to be 68 and Saterday is going to be perfect...75 and sunny. I can't wait to get out and clean up the yard. And just breath in that fresh air.

Yippie! Today is the last day of Spring Cleaning! I love to sit back and look at a clean and organized house. The Garage will have to wait till my little one is taking her nap. I don't like her being in the garage. Just to much stuff. Also i need the hubby around to help with the heavy lifting. So right now me and my lil-girl are going to take a walk. Take in the sun and have a fun day. :)

Thursday: Livingroom Continued........

2009-03-05T13:22:00.000-08:00

Here are a few Living Rooms i would love to lounge around in. And my 14 month old would love to distroy. HA!

Thursday: Livingroom.......

2009-03-05T07:08:00.000-08:00

Downsize kids toys is first on my list for the livingroom today. The whole room needs a good dusting too. Other than that it is probaby the cleanest room in the house. So today will be alot less busy. Which is good cause i didn't get one of my storage closets cleaned out yesterday....hehe! So that is on my list today too.

Wednesday: Bathrooms and Linen and Storage Closets......

2009-03-04T07:43:00.000-08:00

I envy these linen closets....

One of these would be my choice of bathrooms! :)

To me today is the worst of them all! My bathroom may be clean....but organized it is NOT! This is going to take some time. But I want a beautiful bathroom that feels organized and spa like so i will enjoy going in there. Right now i go in do what i have to do and get out. My hubby can't understand why i need all that hair product and makeup. And i just say..."You want me to be beautiful right?" hehe! So he just goes along. But it is me who is tired of looking at it and moving it to clean the counter. So today is TRASH day!

Tuesday: Kitchen & Dinning Room.......

2009-03-03T08:36:00.001-08:00

Today is Kitchen and Dinning Room day. The fridge is going to be cleaned and also i'm going to take everything out of the cabinets and re-organize them. I just know there are things in there i don't use or need. Out they go!

Last night i made a yummy Peach Cobbler. I could have ate the whole thing myself....hehe! Used the simple "Cup a Cup a Cup" recipe.

Nursery.......

2009-03-03T08:26:00.000-08:00

I started in the Baby's room yesterday and i got it all done! Closet and all. Her closet houses not only her clothes that she can wear now but what she has outgrown and what she can wear later on. Outgrown and Later are in Containers. BUT i went thru them and sorted out what i would like to keep and what can be consigned IF the new baby turns out to be a boy. If it is a girl then she doesn't need a thing! HA! My daughter is well dressed. I go overboard on her that is for sure. But she is my little southern Belle and i can't help myself.

MONDAY: Bedrooms (closets included)............

2009-03-01T11:46:00.000-08:00

On your mark...get set....go!! Today is the first day of my "Spring Cleaning" week. I'm so not motivated today...so i got online and picked out a few websites that helped me get in the mood to Organize, Purge and Clean. Monday is Bedrooms (closets included) day. What have i got myself into? I guess i will start on my daughters room first. It is my absolute favorite room to be in and maybe it will get me supercharged to go to the Master...that is the worst of them all. HA! My little girl is going to love all this ....she loves digging in her closet and that is why i need to get in there and baby proof some more. Speaking of baby proof....that needs to be done too. She is walking and getting into everything. So here i go..........
I will post some before and after pics later this afternoon of my progress............