Reid Girls Handmade

Superbowl Recipes

2012-01-31T19:19:00.000-07:00

I thought I would share a few of my favorite appetizer type dishes for Superbowl Sunday...

Source: thepioneerwoman.com via Sarah on Pinterest

First off my go to wing recipe, from Ree at Pioneer Woman. I only buy frozen drummets - cause lets face it, it is a pain to try to scrap such little meat off of wings! I also bake my chicken instead of frying it and I've started to leave out the Tabasco sauce, and it still is super yummy!

Source: salad-in-a-jar.com via Sarah on Pinterest

Ok so I'm using this picture because it looks exactly like our Jalapeno/Bacon/Chicken bites, but their recipe is slightly different. We use any bird we have on hand (pheasant, chicken, or grouse). We marinate bite size pieces in Worcester sauce for at least a half an hour but not too long or the taste can get over powering. Then we take half a bacon strip and wrap it around a piece of chicken and a slice of jalapeno (right out of the jar), stick a toothpick in it to hold it together and grill it on the bbq. Everyone loves these...super yummy!

Source: thepioneerwoman.com via Sarah on Pinterest

Another hit from Ree. The only thing I change is I use half the butter and it's perfect for my taste. I love, love, love this bread - I can eat the whole thing by myself, so I usually take half of the bread - pre-cooked, and stick it in the freezer for another day, but that won't work on a Superbowl crowd!

Source: kraftrecipes.com via Sarah on Pinterest

Another favorite. I follow this one exactly and serve with tortilla chips or french bread!

Cooking up something scrumptious!

2012-01-30T16:56:00.001-07:00

But not to eat...

This is handmade hand/body cream. And it feels

wonderful! It's so easy to make and not expensive

considering you get quite a bit from one recipe.

This is the second time I've made it. The first time I

used the regular baby lotion but the hubster didn't

like the smell. :( This time I used

the lavender scented baby lotion.

It smells divine and feels so wonderful on my dry skin!

I'd love to share the recipe:

16oz baby lotion

8oz vitamin E cream

8oz vaseline

Use an electric mixer to mix these together until creamy.

If you use a whisk it will be lumpy.

Enjoy!

Projects around the house

2012-01-21T20:59:00.000-07:00

So we moved right before Christmas, and our house has been a whirl wind of projects ever since. First we had to do a little painting:
Great room before - (the living room pic is from the previous owners - not my furniture etc)

It was very yellow for my taste. So after living in a completely nuetral house for 6 years I decided to go for some color in the living room and and all white kitchen:

I wanted something bold and colonial with the white trim so I picked Hosta by Martha Stewart, with our lighting it's a tad more green than it shows on my computer screen. I love it.

I plan on having my sweet hubby build a faux fire place mantle for the living room wall, and I will put two big bookshelves on either side of it, sorta like this:

Source: 3.bp.blogspot.com via Sarah on Pinterest

This is the mantel I'm looking at building:

Source: ana-white.com via Sarah on Pinterest

Ruffle scarf- instructions included

2012-01-21T13:00:00.001-07:00

This scarf is easy to make if you know a couple of basic

crochet stitches. How to make a chain and double crochet. (there are tutorials on line)

You can make this in a couple of nights.

Ruffle scarf- size K hook. any yarn you like. My favorite is the Simply Soft from Walmart.

chain 140

row 1- 1 double crochet in 4th chain from hook. *1 double crochet in next stitch. 2 double crochets in next stitch.* Repeat from * to end of row.

chain 3, turn.

row 2- 1 double crochet in next stitch. *1 double crochet in next 2 stitches. 2 double crochets in next stitch.* Repeat from * to end of row.

chain 3, turn.

row 3- 1 doubled crochet in next stitch. *1 double crochet in next 3 stitches. 2 double crochets in next stitch.* Repeat from * to end of row.

chain 3, turn. (see the pattern here?)

row 4- 1 double crochet in next stitch. *1 double crochet in next 4 stitches. 2 double crochets in next stitch.* Repeat from * to end of row.

chain 3, turn.

row 5- (last row, almost done) 1 double crochet in next stitch. *1 double crochet in next 5 stitches. 2 double crochets in next stitch.* Repeat to from * to end of row.

Cut yarn a couple of inches long and bring it through the loop left on your hook. This will form a knot. Weave the ends of the beginning and ending yarn into the

scarf.

You did it, now go wear it with a big smile!

Yummy Recipes

2012-01-20T20:31:00.002-07:00

On Christmas morning mom made this delish breakfast cake from Pinterest:

Source: alexandracooks.com via Sarah on Pinterest

Since Aaron wasn't there, I decided to give it a try and it was sooo good, again.

I also had to try this recipe from Pioneer Woman Cooks for corn dogs and cheese on a stick. My kiddos thought it was so fun to make:

Go check out her pictures, they are way more appetizing!

1930s quilt

2012-01-18T18:12:00.001-07:00

This is the 2nd one like it that I've made. It's done

a little bit differently than the last one but basically

the same. The fabrics are 1930s replicas.

It's such a fun pattern to make. My quilter

did a great job. It's going to a good home in

Minnesota.

Christmas Quilt

2012-01-10T18:02:00.001-07:00

I've wanted a Christmas quilt for a while and now I have one!

I love pinwheel quilts so I made this one with pinwheels in mind....

Dress shirt into onesie...

2011-12-30T16:43:00.001-07:00

This is very simple to do.

I measured 11" from the top of the shirt along the buttonplacket and cut off the bottom.

On my grandson, I needed 5" of the bottom of a onesie in his size. 24mo.

i sewed the onesie bottom to the bottom of the shirt right sides together. make sure

you put the front of the onesie on the front side of the shirt :)

These will stay tucked in when you want the little man to look his best....

Have fun!

Look what we made.....

2011-12-18T16:02:00.001-07:00

We started this project 33 years ago tomorrow. December 19, 1978

I think we did a great job and just think, we're not finished yet!

Mmm Mmm Good

2011-12-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

Source: flickr.com via Sarah on Pinterest

So cold weather always makes me want tomato soup and grilled cheese sandwhiches! I was reading on Word of Wisdom Living about soup and it was recommend to find Nordstrom's Tomato Basil recipe and try it out...so I did. I've never made tomato basil soup and I've never had Nordstrom's version either. All the recipes I saw were the same but this one supposedly came straight from the cafe's own cookbook.

From Studiozoe on Flickr:

"I realized, when writing this, that I didn'tdo it exactly like the cookbook calls...sotechnically I'm not violating any copyrightssince it isn't the same recipe! It's bettermy way:

1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
1 large yellow onion, chopped
1 Tablespoon dried basil
4 cans whole tomatoes inpuree
6 1/2 cups low-sodium chickenbroth
2 cups heavy whipping cream
kosher salt
freshly ground black pepper
2 Tablespoons lightly packed fresh basilleaves, cut into fine ribbons
In a 7,5 liter stockpot (a really big one!)over medium heat, warm the oil and swirl tocoat the bottom of the pan. Add the carrots,onion, and dried basil and saute, stirringoccasionally, until softened, 10 to 12minutes. Add the tomatoes, including thepuree, and the broth and bring just to aboil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer,uncovered, for 2 minutes to blend theflavors.
Remove from the heat. Using astick-immersion blender, puree the soup inthe pot. (if you don't have one of those,get one! or, working in batches, puree thesoup in a blender or food processor fittedwith the metal blade.)
Return the pureed soup to the saucepan, addthe cream, and place over medium heat. Warmuntil heated through. Season to taste withsalt and pepper.
Ladle the soup into a warmed soup tureen orindividual bowls, garnish with the basil, andserve immediately.

Be warned, this recipe is a double-batch. ItEASILY serves 12-15. Halve this for anormal-sized starter to feed 6. I made themistake of just starting to cook...and then Irealized I'd have to get out a secondstockpot! And yes, use DRIED basil. If you use fresh basil to start, it'll just lose allits flavor. This is one of the few times(oregano is another) where I have no problemusing the dried stuff."

I halved the recipe. The smell of the vegetables and basil sauteing was worth cooking it in and of itself! The soup tasted really yummy like promised. Next time I'll puree it a little more than I did but that's all I'd do differently.

Simple Christmas

2011-12-10T11:12:00.001-07:00

We're moving in a week! Because of this I haven't done much for Christmas. I don't want to have to pack it and haul it to a new house, so I'll be shopping after the move. Also because the family is getting a new house there will be quite a few necessities to purchase so our Christmas will be simple this year.

Source: dandee-designs.com via Tamsin on Pinterest

I'm in love with the want, need, wear, read concept that is all over blogosphere. I saw it a few years ago and have wanted to implement it, and now I have a great excuse! I love how simple it makes gift giving, and it allows for more focus on the birth of the Savior too. Since I haven't done my shopping, and I'm in bed sick today, I decided to make a list to share:

Just click on the picture to open it, then right click and "save file as."

The Nutcracker

2011-12-07T10:17:00.001-07:00

Sarah Jane Studios does it again! The moment I saw the Nutcracker puppets I purchased a copy...

Source: sarahjanestudios.com via Sarah on Pinterest

You can see an entire blog post on these beautiful, printable puppets...So much fun!

Peter Pan Costumes

2011-10-29T08:00:00.000-06:00

This year we decided to do Peter Pan - since I already had a pirate costume to fit my 3 year old! I made
Tinkerbell and Peter's costumes this year.

I saw Make it and Love it's Peter Pan tutorial and copied it for ours. Super easy. I found the felt hat at DI a while ago, it worked perfectly.

For miss Tinkerbell I started to use Butterick 6660 pattern:

Source: butterick.mccall.com via Sarah on Pinterest

But was quickly annoyed with all the layers of tulle. Instead of following the patterns instructions, I just took all the layers of tulle and pleated the whole skirt then sewed across the top to keep the pleats. Then I created the leaves per the pattern (I only made half of what it called for) and pinned them on top of the skirt and added the waist band to cover the seams. I liked the leaves puffier so I didn't iron them down - I may iron them now - looking at the pics. I took the leaf pattern and copied it on my printer, scaling it to 50% for the necklace. I made it the same way that I made the skirt leaves. I purchased her tee, but it was a size 4/5 when she's a 24 month, so I cut off the sleeves, sewed up the sides then shortened the sleeves and reattached them. I kept the shirt long to help cover her biking shorts underneath the tulle skirt. I just bought the wings :).

There you have it, super simple Halloween.

Footloose

2011-10-28T08:00:00.000-06:00

So I went to see the new Footloose the other night and I loved it - especially Julianne Hough. Can we say gorgeous? So I decided to try to copy her hair:

I liked the way it turned out. I used Motions Lotion to try to keep the curl, cause mine never lasts and it held up in the front all day - the back still went limp. I did actually wear that belt, and my cowgirl boots too! Now to convince my hubby to take me line dancing...

Another form of Journaling

2011-10-27T08:00:00.000-06:00

Source: flickr.com via Sarah on Pinterest

Source: flickr.com via Lorna on Pinterest

Ok so I love calendar journaling and I did it for years. In high school my best friend started writing down everything we/she did on her wall calendar in her bedroom. It rocked so I started doing it in my Franklin planner, on the monthly pages. I did it all through high school, college and my mission. It's so fun to pull them out and look back on things I've done that I would never remember other wise. Like dates that totally sucked and are very laugh worthy now and great girls' night out moment too.

I'm taking it up again, it's a quick way to record events and I can go back to journal more later too if I want to. Plus I'll be able to remind the kids of things we did when they complain as adults of never doing anything - cause that's bound to happen :).

Smash Books

2011-10-25T21:54:00.001-06:00

Source: elizabethkartchner.blogspot.com via Julie on Pinterest

If you don't know what a Smash book is, here's a video:

Catchy right? Ok so I love the concept. I've started to do this for my personal journal - you know all those sayings we keep pinning on pinterest?

I just print them off - mini style- and tape them into my journal. They usually have some meaning toward things in my life - I mean they're realitive enough for me to pin them right?

I also smash small pics, ticket stubs, memos, notes, what ever fits with that entry. It's kind of an original scrapbook - you know old school style - with more writing than anything else. For great inspiration, just search smash book on pinterest - awesome!

I also do it for my scripture/gospel study. Here is a great resource for setting up a scripture journal and how to size documents to tape into your journal.

Now I can't just sit there smashing everything while my kids are getting into my 'stuff' can I? So I got them their own Smash books too:

I just bought composition books on clearance and let them cut and glue and color what ever they want. It has repeatedly entertained them for hours - no joke! If only I had known this forever ago :)!

So here's to smashing!

keep the gospel message with you...

2011-10-02T13:20:00.000-06:00

sarah found a variety of things like this to keep Pres. Uchtdorf's message with you....

found on pintrest

Measure up

2011-09-27T08:00:00.000-06:00

Source: etsy.com via Sarah on Pinterest

I've been admiring these growth charts that look like giant rulers, for my boys room.

Source: justsomethingimade.com via Sarah on Pinterest

I came across this one from Just Something I Made. It's a free printable! I just printed it off, taped it together and then took it to my local copier to have it laminated.

So easy and super cute! I've marked all my kids current heights and am happy to have a way to record their growth.

Chipotle Pumpkin Soup

2011-09-25T13:39:00.000-06:00

Picture via Elise at Simply Recipes

Oh my this soup was so yummy! I found it here via Pinterest I love soups in the fall and I love spicy food so I got two of my favorite things in one! I used the canned pumpkin and did 6 cups of chicken broth. It was the perfect consistency once I ran my immersion blender through it. I used 2 adobe peppers so it was a little to spicy to feed to the kids so next time I will add the peppers or chipotle powder slowly and taste it as I go. It was so good topped with cilantro!

Chipotle Pumpkin Soup Recipe

If canned chipotle in adobo is not available, you can use chipotle powder, start with one teaspoon and increase to taste. If chipotle powder is not available, use 1/2 teaspoon of regular chili powder, increasing to taste, and a dash of liquid smoke. Note that fresh pumpkins vary in their moisture content, so you may need to add more liquid, either water or stock, to get to the consistency you want, depending on how thick or thin you would like your soup to be.

Ingredients

2 Tbsp olive oil

1 medium yellow onion, chopped

3 garlic cloves, chopped

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1-2 chipotle peppers (canned in adobo, 1 for mild, 2 for spicy), chopped

8 cups chopped, cooked pumpkin* (1 7-8 pound cooking pumpkin to yield 8 cups cooked pumpkin, or 3 15-ounce cans of canned pumpkin)

4 to 6 cups chicken stock, depending on desired thickness and how thick your pumpkin purée is (use vegetable stock for vegetarian option, can sub water for some of the stock)

1 teaspoon dried oregano or 1/2 teaspoon ground oregano

2 teaspoons salt, more to taste

2 Tbsp lime juice

Garnishes:
Toasted, shelled pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
Cilantro
Creme fresca, creme fraiche or sour cream thinned with a little water so that it's runny

*To cook fresh pumpkin, use a good cooking pumpkin (i.e. sugar pumpkin, fairytale pumpkin, hubbard, or kabocha pumpkin), cut in half, scoop out the seeds, place the pumpkin cut side down on a foil-lined, rimmed baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for about an hour, or until soft. Scoop out the pumpkin flesh or cut away the skin. Let cool. Freeze for long term storage.

Method

1 Heat oil in a large pot (8-quart) on medium high heat. Add the onions and cook for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic, cumin, and chipotle, cook for 1 minute more.

2 Add the pumpkin, chicken stock, oregano, and salt. Bring to a simmer, reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes, partially covered.

3 If you are working with raw pumpkin seeds, now would be a good time to toast them. (If your pumpkin seeds are already toasted, skip this step.) Just spread them out in an even layer in a frying pan on medium high heat. Stir with a wooden spoon while toasting, until the pumpkin seeds are fragrant and are lightly browned. Remove to a bowl.

4 Remove the soup from heat. Working in batches of 2 cups each, purée the soup in batches, holding down the lid the your blender tightly while puréeing, and starting on a slow speed. Return the puréed soup to the pot.

5 Add lime juice. Adjust seasonings to taste, adding more salt, cumin, oregano, or chipotle to taste. If the soup is too thick, add more stock or water to desired consistency.

Serve with toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas), crema fresca drizzled over the top, and chopped cilantro.
Yield: Makes 2 to 2 1/2 quarts.

Taco Soup

2011-09-25T13:30:00.001-06:00

here is another yummy and easy soup recipe. it took 15 min to make. i served

it with corn bread....yum!

Turkey Taco Soup

1 lb ground turkey

1 medium onion, chopped

cook together until turkey is cooked.

Add:

1-8oz can tomato sauce

1-10oz can rotel tomatoes with green chillies

1-15oz can corn, drained

1-15 oz can kidney beans, drained

1-16oz can refried beans

1 pkg taco seasoning

2 1/2 c chicken broth

Simmer on med-low for 15 min or until your corn bread is done!

Top the bowls of soup with chips, green onion, sour cream, grated cheese, avacados, or whatever you like....

this recipe is from a blog called skinnytaste. you can make it healthier by using low sodium, low fat versions.

Scripture Paper dolls

2011-09-25T10:01:00.001-06:00

To go along with Anna's quiet pouches I found these scripture paper dolls on The Redheaded Hostess' site. She is a seminary teacher for our church and has great references for scripture study etc - that could be used for anyone. I thought these dolls would be great in one of the pouches - maybe minus the background?

Hair pretties

2011-09-24T07:48:00.000-06:00

These top ones are flowers and butterflies that Gram crochet, a long time ago.

These were cute scrapbooking embelishments that were gifted by my girlfriend for my b-day. I finally got to the beauty supply to get aligator clips to make the pretties. My 4 yr old and I had a crafting party, we jammed out to disney music on Pandora, snacked on raw almonds and she helped me hot glue the ribbon and embelishments to the clips. It was a wild, wild party.

pumpkin from a book

2011-09-23T20:48:00.001-06:00

i saw these on pintrest and decided they would be fun to make with my program. they loved\

how they turned out. so fun and easy...

Earings

2011-09-23T07:36:00.000-06:00

I had some buttons, I thought they were cute enough to wear on my ears so I made Earings. I am so creative!

Quiet Pouches

2011-09-22T07:13:00.001-06:00

I'd like to take a moment to introduce myself. I'm Anna, I'm the one in Minnesota. A little history about me. I used to craft and create A LOT and then I had a baby, I lost all desire and time to do any creating well I just got that itch back! Oh did I mention my baby is 16 months old. Wow! Kinda like loosing the baby weight right? Oh wait am I the only one that works their toosh off and the weight just starts to come off 14 months post pardom? Sorry I just got side tracked, back to the creating. I'm doing it again but starting slow.

Since said 16 month old is now a toddler and a bit of a handful at times, especially in situations like church I decided I needed to do something new for our church bag. The cars I had in the bag for him were not cutting it and so NOT quiet. I found this via Pinterest, and knew that would be the perfect idea.

So I gathered things we already had at home and bought 6 pouches for 97 cents a piece at walmart.

Lacing dress up Dolls (did I mention I have 4 yr old Daughter too?)

Dry erase board and Crayons. I stuck in a microfiber wipe to wipe off the crayon.

More gender nuetral lacing cards

Lottle notebooks, fun pens, rubber stamps, and stickers

Finger puppets

Velcro fabric dress up dolls.

I also have little puzzles, lacing beads, little plastic animals, matching games, tiny books that I switch out week to week. There are endless ideas of things to fill these bags with. So far it has worked great and my kids are occupied and quiet ;)

Soup's On!

2011-09-21T16:52:00.001-06:00

I've been anxious to make soup. I found this recipe online. It is Yummy!

Vegetable, White Bean, and Orzo Soup

1-2 t evoo

1/2 sweet onion, diced

3 carrots, diced

3 stalks celery, diced

1/2 t basil

1/4 t oregano

heat oil on medium heat and add the above ingredients and cook 5-6 min then add:

2 cloves minced garlic

cook for a minute and add:

6 c chicken broth

1 15 oz can diced tomatoes, drained

1 15 oz can cannellini beans, drained

salt and pepper to taste

cover and cook for 30 min til veggies are tender and add:

1/2 c orzo

cook 8 min and add:

1 c zuchinni, diced

1 c yellow squash, diced

2 c fresh spinach

cook for 2 more min or so

ladle it into bowls and put feta cheese on top

I used only 4 c broth, tomatoes from the garden, and two cans of beans

It has 19g protein in each serving. Better than meat, if you ask me!

Back to Creating - and recipe

2011-09-14T09:49:00.001-06:00

Ok so it's been far too longs since I've actually made something to share! I have a long list of projects to finish this fall/winter and hopefully will be posting many soon. I've added a list of my projects to be done on the side bar - to hold me accountable to finish them. Also new to the sidebar are our Pinterest boards for you to look at. For now here is a yummy recipe for Olive Garden's Zupa Tuscana soup, a family favorite around here:

Updated E.L.F. Review

2011-09-08T19:32:00.000-06:00

I hope your not sick of these! I just wanted to update some of my reviews (from here and here), and add new ones of some of the products I've purchased recently. I think I'm a little addicted to buying this stuff! Here's a hint: before you buy google elf promo codes and you will be able to find a 50% off studio code every time. I've done this with all my orders.

Previous review updated:
Essential Custom Eyes $1 - I've decided I don't like this one as much as I did previously. Once compared to the other eye shadows I've purchased it's not as high quality. See new eye shadow review below.
♥ Mineral Infused Mascara $3 -Not only do I still LOVE this mascara but I swear my eyelashes have gotten longer - if only it makes them look longer it's worth it!
Zit Zapper $1- I've decided I would buy this again after all. Works great.
♥ Makeup Mist and Set $3 - Still love this and recommend it.
Tone Correcting Powder $3 - I've been using it everyday and I really like it, I don't know if it's because it actually does what it claims or if it's just a good powder. I've only been using it to set my under eye makeup to cover up my dark circles. For a GREAT tutorial on covering up under eye circles see this one from Kandee Johnson.
Clarifying pressed powder $1 - even though I bought the wrong color I've found a use for this powder. I use it for contouring - here's a good tutorial from the beauty department.
Cream Eye Liner $3 - I LOVE this eye liner. I bought it in coffee and have been using it most days. It doesn't smudge and it stays put all day.

New reviews:

Studio Angled Eyeliner Brush $3- Love this brush. I use it with the cream eye liner and I have total control. I can do a thin line or a thick cat eye.

Eyeshadow "C" Brush $3- great eye shadow brush.

Studio Mineral Face Primer $6- I don't wear foundation very often but this is a great primer if you do. I bought it for the Studio 5 segment and was very happy with it.

Blending Brush $1- mine doesn't look like the one in the picture, but it is an angled blending brush and I love it for contouring and blush (see tutorial above).

♥ Studio Blush $3- in gotta glow and candid coral. I LOVE these. I use the glow one for highlighting (on top of the cheek bones and down the nose) and the coral one for my blush. Highly recommend these!

HD Powder $6- this is amazing. It's a white loose powder that actually gives your face a soft focus effect. It even made my forehead wrinkles look smoother!

♥ Cream Eyeshadow $3- in natural glow. This is a very gold color and beautiful. I love to use it as a base all over my eyelid and then apply my powder on top. I'll be getting it in candlelight next time too.

♥ Beauty School Eyeshadow Pallete $3 - for 6 shadows! I have Natural and Day & Night (which I don't think is available anymore). I LOVE these. Gorgeous colors, great quality and pigmentation.

Brightening eyeliner $1 - in black. This came with one of my palettes and it's a great soft pencil eye liner.

Essential Lipstick $1 - in gypsy. This lipstick reminds me of stuff I played with when I was 12. It has a berry sent to it and just feels juvenile. If you can get past the smell it's pretty decent as far as color goes.

Mineral Lip Gloss $3 - in bare. I'm not usually a fan of glosses because they're so sticky. I can actually wear this one. It's a little (and I mean little) sticky at first but goes away pretty fast. This color is beautiful between this and the lip conditioning balm in nice and natural I'm in heaven. Here's a great tutorial that uses a nude lip from Makeup by Eman.

♥ Matte Lip Color $3 - I LOVE these. I have three, praline (my fav and I wear it a lot), coral (don't like this color at all - too juvenile, and bright for my age and big lips :) and I just bought natural which I haven't tried yet. These are easy to apply since they are like a fat pencil, they stay on forever and are conditioning. It's seems impossible that it could be matte, long last and conditioning but it is.

Matte Finisher Nail Polish $2 - so matte nails are in this year, but I don't want to buy all my colors again in matte so I bought this instead. It's awesome - if you want to try matte nails this is definitely the way to go and only two dollars!

*The post office located my last package so I'll be trying the nail polish this week too, in dark red and smokey brown. This is a great tutorial on a home manicure from Petit Elefant.

*Check out my pin board for more make up tutorials and nail inspiration.

*I've purchased all this products on my own and in no way am affiliated with E.L.F cosmetics.

i've been sewing....

2011-09-05T12:26:00.001-06:00

i got the quilt for my guest bed done so i decided to embroider and sew up

a pitllow for the bed and i even made a little baby ensamble for one of the babies

coming up... one better be a girl!

Newspaper Article

2011-08-31T15:54:00.002-06:00

Here's a link to the newspaper article on mom's new office:
http://www.standard.net/stories/2011/08/30/rise-inc-facility-relocates-ogden

Pretty cool!

Sewing Machine Cover Tutorial

2011-08-28T13:19:00.000-06:00

We've shown a lot of sewing machine covers on this blog and we recieved a request for the tutorial. We used Nap Time Journal's tutorial . Very easy and super cute...

Pizza from Scratch

2011-08-28T13:09:00.000-06:00

OK so I've never made any kind of dough on my own - ever. I've only helped my husband with his sourdough in minor ways. I really wanted to make my own pizza dough but I don't have it in me to make things ahead of time, or to let them rise etc. Well last night we were craving pizza and it was too late to order any so we didn't give in to the impulse. That only made me want it more for lunch today. So, I found this No Rise Pizza Crust recipe (thanks to The Finer Things in Life) and went to work.

It was super easy and took no time at all - perfect! I threw on toppings that we had in the fridge - pesto for the sauce, left over italian sausage mixed with spinach, artichoke hearts, mushrooms, olives, mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Delish and a hit!

updated guest room....

2011-08-27T11:39:00.001-06:00

i got the quilt and shams at downeast for $10! love deals like that...

new sewing machine cover, mouse pad for my scissors to sit on when sewing,

new runner for the dresser. i'll add the embroidery hoops with fabric in them

from my office when i move out of it. i will also make a simple quilt for the

end of the bed with lots of colors in it. better go get started!

The Secret Life of Thrifting

2011-08-27T07:35:00.000-06:00

Hello, my name is Sarah and I have become a thrifting addict. I went from a total thrift store snob - I could not stand the idea of wearing clothes from someone I didn't know - to a regular at the local DI. I've been shopping clearance for years but now I've discovered the joy of the "find." Here are some of my recent scores:
-Lucky Jeans...$40. Now that might be a high price at a thrift store but they look brand new, I would pay $40 for a pair of jeans and Lucky's last forever. I once wore a pair for 8 years - seriously.
-True Religions...$40. This one was based on the above idea, I love these ones tucked in my boots.
-Rock Republic pants and shorts...$35.
-100% Angora sweater...$6

These two scores were not from a thrift store but a good story on patience. I love vintage style, specifically the 30s, 40s and 50s. After seeing Varsity Show, the 1937 movie, I fell in love with the 30s' collegiate style. I've wanted to find a cute letter sweater that fit me ever since. I wore my letter sweater from high school last year and it still drowns me even though I've gained 30 pounds :).
I saw these two at the Abercrombie outlet for $49 each (originally $88) a few weeks ago. That is too steep for me, so I decided to wait and see if something popped up at the thrift store. Well I went back up to the outlets today and they were on clearance for $19.90 each! I grabbed them both and feel like I was completely rewarded for not giving into the impulse to by them the first time around.

All Things Vintage

2011-08-25T20:14:00.000-06:00

I've finally started a blog to go along with my Etsy store... it's focused on all things vintage so if your interested click on over.

Studio 5

2011-08-23T12:33:00.002-06:00

I had so much fun sharing our book exchange party on Studio 5 today. You can go here to see the segment: http://studio5.ksl.com/?nid=71&sid=16928179 Everyone was so nice and it was a great experience. Here's the link to the party for more details.

Play Kitchen Finished

2011-08-21T20:06:00.000-06:00

I've finally finished my little girls play kitchen. I knew I had to make one of these the minute I saw this post on Out of The Crayon Box. I've had to wait until my daughter was 1) old enough to play with it and 2) there was room for it in her room, to actually build one. Meanwhile I collected as many images as I could find to inspire me: Here's my pin board if you want to check it out.

So the day came this June when I could do this little project and I've been so excited to share it. I wanted it to look kind of like a 1930s kitchen since her room is done in all vintage. I painted it jadeite green and bought some vintage looking knobs. I also painted the front of the 'fridge' door in chalkboard paint for a little extra fun. The vintage hot pads came from a local antique store - thanks to gram.

I bought the canister and tea pot at DI (thrift store) and dishes at IKEA. All of my kids have had a blast playing restaurant and making dinner. Next up will be to use the vintage inspired fabrics that my mom used for her adorable apron to make a ruffled curtain for under the sink, and then to paint her table and chairs robin egg blue.

hello,

2011-08-13T13:38:00.001-06:00

my name is clara and i'm going on a little trip to my new owner....

Sewing machine cover

2011-08-09T15:50:00.001-06:00

This little lady, who we'll just call "Annabell" is going

to Minnesota to keep Anna's machine warm during

those long winter months....

My Favs

2011-07-17T19:35:00.000-06:00

Sarah's Favorites: Printables for Organizing

I have to write everything down - I lost my mind/memory the minute I was pregnant with my first and it's never come back. These are some of my favorite free printables I use to keep myself sane.

Source: theprojectgirl.com via Kristen on Pinterest

I've used this meal planner forever. I love that I can write down menu items and then list the ingredients I need in the categories where I will find them in the store. I don't ever make my menu items on the day described but I keep this on my fridge to see what I have to make. I write down items we run out of in my planner and then transfer them to this list before I go shopping.

Of course my Planner is the other one...it's my brain and I keep it in my purse! I still love the simple design. Once my kids are bigger I can foresee the need for something with more scheduling capabilities, like the WHOMI but for now it works.

I love new things - what are your favs for staying organized?

E.L.F Make-up Haul part 2

2011-07-16T18:23:00.000-06:00

This is the second part to my E.L.F haul and review. For the first part go here.

Tools

Eyebrow brush $1- great - it's an eyebrow brush...
Total face brush $1 - not my fav, it's not very dense, but it is very soft

Travel Mirror $1- I needed a new one b/c my kids broke mine, but this one has a magnifying mirror and a regular mirror, very nice.

For the Face

Zit Zapper $1- I started having break outs the last couple years and I'm waiting for my next shipment of proactive to come so I thought I would try this... it seems to be drying out some of my break outs... I don't think I'd buy it again

Translucent Matifying Powder $3 - I bought this one the second time around, it's very matifying - I'm not sure I like that, but it definitly does it's job if that's what your after.
♥ Makeup Mist and Set $3 - I've always been skeptical of this sort of product but I can say that my makeup has been staying on all day since I started to use it - so I'm sold!

For the Eyes

Under Eye Concealer and Highlighter $3 - I have terrible under eye circles, I'm not sure the concealer does that great of a job to hide them, I think my foundation works better. It does make a great eye primer though. I love the highlighter, I think the white irridencence is actually much more effective than other ones I've used.

Tone Correcting Powder $3 - this one I bought to set my concealer over my under eye circles, I guess if you mix the pink and yellow it's supposed to help even out the blue. I only used it the first time today (a day when my circles are extra bad) and I'm not sure how great of a job it does, we'll see when I cover my circles with foundation.
Eye Primer and Liner Sealer $3 - This primer is ok, I've only used it today and my eye makeup has lasted longer than it normally does but I think the above mentioned concealer may even be better - I think I'll do one eye with each tomorrow and see what happens :). I'm excited to try the liner sealer. You use it to make a wet eyeliner out of any of your favorite eye shadows -could be fun! Haven't tried it yet.

Essential Brightening Eye Color $1 - for four shadows! I bought Day 2 Night and Butternut. I've only used the first one but I love it. It's shimmery but I don't think it's over the top and it's lasted all day. I will definitly buy more later on.
Cream Eye Liner $3 - in gunmetal. I've haven't tried it yet but my sister loves hers.

Dramatic Lash Kit $1 - I've been trying to figure out how to use/wear false lashes for my vintage looks and have yet had any sucsess, but for a $1 I can keep trying. I have not tried these yet.

For the Lips
Therapeutic Conditioning Lip Balm $1 - This is a good conditioner especially for the money.

Someday

2011-07-14T08:32:00.002-06:00

I hope to have the sewing skills to sew an outfit like this someday... from Anything Goes. I love her hair too, I've seen a few faux '30s bob tutorials that I may try - but my hair may be too long. I think I would take one of every outfit in this clip actually - here's the clip for your enjoyment:

Here's a link to my Retro Style pin board for more of my wish list!

Mrs. Jones' Soapbox - a discount

2011-07-12T07:47:00.000-06:00

I have fallen in love with my laundry soap and soft scrub... now you can too! Here's a coupon code for 10% off http://go.referralcandy.com/share/3TC5MS. Just include the email address betsyandjoy@gmail.com to let her know where you came from! Thanks!

E.L.F Make-up Haul part 1

2011-07-08T18:47:00.004-06:00

My sister told me about Eyes Lips Face (E.L.F) make-up forever ago, but because I didn't want to buy make-up on line I didn't really look to much into it. While walking through Target the other day I found their E.L.F section and decided to give it a try - I mean almost ALL of it! It's so inexpensive from $1 to $3 an item that I went a little crazy. First off, I love the packaging, they put a picture of the applicator for each product on the box so you know what it's like. They also put thorough instructions on how to use it or what it's for. Here's what I bought and what I think about the products so far:

Tools

♥ Eye contour brush $3 - Awesome!!! I love this brush. Dense, super soft and very effective.
Defining eye brush $1 - I use it for my crease and I really like it
♥ Eyelash curler $1 - Another awesome one - the handles are like hair cutting scissors which makes it super easy to use

Slant Tweezers $1- I've had the same tweezers and eyelash curler since I was 12 (not joking) so after reading the reviews on ELF (I looked them up after my first purchase and went back for more) I decided to try these out...love them!
Nail Polish Remover Pads $1 - I bought these b/c the other day when I was out I realized that my finger nail polish had pealed after cleaning that morning and I was so embarrassed that I couldn't take it off - it looked pretty bad and juvenille. These pads will fit right into my purse for future problems, I haven't tried them yet.

For the Face

Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 $3 - This is a great product, especially for the price. If feels very moisturizing, it evens out my skin tone with out a ton of coverage and it definitely doesn't feel like I have anything but moisturizer on. I'll be using this all summer.

Clarifying pressed powder $1 - first off I bought the wrong color, but for a $1 not a biggie. B/c it was the wrong color I didn't like it, it seemed too cakey, maybe in the right color...who knows.

All Over Color Stick $1- I got this one in Pink Lemonade and Golden Peach. I love them. I've never used a cream blush before but this rocks. It gives the perfect dewy summer skin and I even like it on my lips.

For the Eyes

♥ Waterproof Eye Liner Pen $1 - in coffee. I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this! I bought the brown one because I already have MAC's Penultimate eye liner in rapidblack ($16). I have the hardest time using the MAC pen, it smears super easily and fades pretty fast. I also have to set it with black eye powder which defeats the whole purpose of the pen in my opinion. This ELF pen is so easy to use, no smearing, no fading and I can still do my vintage cat eye with it.
Wet Gloss Lash and Brow Clear Mascara $1 - I bought this to tame my brows. I've never used anything before and was hesitant but I really like it. It doesn't feel like there is really much there (I was worried it would feel like gel) but it holds all day. My eyelashes are too light to try this as a mascara.
Eye Liner and Eye Shadow Stick $3 - in pearl/glow. I love this. It's super creamy and goes on so easily. I use it to brighten my eyes with my normal shadow and liner.
Essential Custom Eyes $1 - eye shadow in wisteria (it's not as bright as the picture, very pretty). I really like this shadow, it stayed all day and went on well.

♥ Mineral Infused Mascara $3 - I love this mascara. I'm picky about mascara because I have such light colored and thin eyelashes. I look terribly washed out with out it too. This lasted all day, lengthened the look of my lashes, and covered each lash with out clumping! I use Hard Candy Lash Ink, 4 day lash stain when I go to the pool or lake b/c it will not come off or fall under my eye at all, but it's a little clumpy for every day wear. I can't wait to try the other mascaras they offer - I will definitely be purchasing this one again.

For the Lips

♥ Conditioning Lip Balm SPF 15 $3- in nice & natural. I love this! It's super conditioning for my dry, flaky, large lips. It smells like cocoa butter, mmm. The color is light and nude which I really like. It comes in a huge pot too. I will definitely be buying more in other colors.
Lip Stain and Gloss $3 - in red carpet. I bought this for my vintage looks and I just don't have good luck with red lips. I don't know if I didn't let the stain dry long enough - but it got splotchy and of course you could see every crack or flake in my lip. I'll have to exfoliate first and try it again. The gloss was high shine and sticky - I don't like sticky lips but if you do then this stuff is great.
Therapeutic Conditioning Lip Balm $1 - This is a good conditioner especially for the money.

Simple Makeup:

Retro Makeup:

To Grandmother's House We Go - Little Red Riding Hood Party

2011-06-30T22:52:00.000-06:00

My mom and little girl have their birthdays two days apart - so this year we decided to celebrate them together. I saw this darling shower with the idea of to grandmother's house we go using little red riding hood.I started by finding a vintage Little Red book on Ebay and then gathered inspiration from around the web. I found this darling free printable and decided to use it for the invite (with two families it was more for fun than an actual invite).

I wanted to keep it simple so I did "toadstool" cupcakes, using upside down white chocolate chips, and an ice cream bar.

We had "sweet sap" (caramel topping), "forest floor" (fudge topping), "dew drops" chocolate chips, "tree trunks" (almond slices) and "wild berries." I took waffle cone bowls and dipped the edges in melted chocolate to add to the woodsy feel.

Mrs. Jones' Soapbox - a review

2011-06-30T17:31:00.001-06:00

Source: etsy.com via Sarah on Pinterest

I am not a cleaner. I LOVE things to be clean and organized but I hate to think about doing it. Once I'm actually working at it I feel great, it's the getting to it part that is hard. So when I do clean I want effective products that work fast. Another factor is my son's eczema. I really believe in using as many natural products as I can to try to keep from aggravating it. I switched to Shaklee for all my cleaning products at Christmas. I like the laundry soap but it's expensive. Once I ran out I started using clear and free ALL. It's not all natural though, so when I heard about Mrs. Jones' Soapbox on Etsy, and found out that my cousin uses her products and loves it, I decided to give it a try.

The first thing that impressed me was her eco friendly policy - she sells her products in reusable packaging and then offers refills in recycled containers for an even better price. By the way, the containers are super cute too! Since I had my own jar, I bought the Four Bag refill of laundry soap, 320 loads worth (if you have HE machines it's 640) - for $38 including shipping. It comes to $0.12 a load! Much cheaper than Shaklee and exactly the same price as ALL.

The product description reads:
The Pert Plus of laundry detergents, this is a cleaner, deodorizer and softener all-in-one. Clothes come out soft and free from the waxy residues left behind by traditional detergents and fabric softeners. The mild ingredients make it the ideal product for babies and people with allergies and skin conditions. You need just one heaping spoonful of detergent for each wash so this product will cost you less and last longer than any other on the market. A little bit goes a long way! And there's no need to use fabric softener or softener sheets. This is a laundry soap & fabric softener all-in-one so your clothes come out of the dryer soft, fresh and static-free.
Safe for HE, top or front loaders, baby clothing, cloth diapers, sensitive skin, skin allergies, skin conditions and septic tanks. This product is readily biodegradable.

As soon as it arrived I did all my laundry - my sister and mother are amazed right now- that in and of it's self was worth the purchase, ha ha ha. Anyway, the soap smells wonderful and had my whole house (it's small and open to the laundry room) smelling fresh - but the clothes didn't come out perfumey (?) or smelly at all. I was dubious about not needing fabric softener, but you really don't! My clothes were softer than ever and no static. I'm in love with this soap and highly recommend it. I even passed on a bag to my SIL for my nephew who also has eczema.

With my purchase Jamie (owner) sent a sample of her Soft Cleaning Scrub.
"This soft scrub cleaner is a personal favorite of mine. I keep one under my kitchen sink and use it to clean my stainless steel sink, dirty casserole dishes, pots & pans, my glass stove top when food gets burnt on, the inside of my oven and the inside of my dishwasher. I keep another jar in the shower and use it to clean the glass doors, tile walls and floor while I'm taking a shower! There are no harsh fumes to breathe (it smells like delicious cake frosting) so I find it's quick and easy to do.
It's also great for cleaning bathroom sinks & tubs, scuff marks on the walls, and the inside of your washing machine. Anytime you need a little extra oomph when you're cleaning, reach for Scrub. I even discovered recently that it will remove paint from your skin if your hands get dirty while you're cleaning paint brushes!"

I decided to give it a try on my kitchen sink. I generally use Shaklee's Scour Off scrub and then on occasion I'll use Soft Scrub - even though I hate the toxic smell, it does do the job better than my Scour Off . Here's the before pic:

And the After:

I think it did a good job- as well as my Scour Off. For a jar it's $8.99 and for the 16oz refill it's $3.99 - my Shaklee scrub is $7.25 for 9oz (if your a member). As soon as I'm out of my Shaklee I'll be switching to Mrs. Jones' Soapbox - I can't wait to try her other products as well.

Kate Middleton

2011-06-25T16:31:00.000-06:00

I love the Duchess' style. She always looks so tailored and classy. I just spotted this ensemble on a fashion blog:

She wore it to an event for their Armed Forces Day with the Irish Guardsmen. I love the military jacket. I think the 3/4 length sleeves are super cute and unique for this kind of piece. It doesn't hurt that she's a stick too. I love the brooch, being Irish my mom, sister and I are always admiring pieces like that and it looks really simple but nice with the jacket.

Kate's charm braclet is cute too - it's her official seal. We each have a medallion my dad made for us with our family symbol on it - it's too big for a braclet charm but could work with this kind of chain for a necklace - maybe we could weave ribbon in the chain too - what do you think? I've been wanting to figure out a way to wear it.

I have to say that I really like the duke's coat as well - way to fancy for my hubs but I think it looks so sharp.

Anyway the reason I'm posting this - besides sharing how cute I think she dresses is that one thing I love about the British is that it's fashionable to wear hats and fascinators. I love hats but I rarely find an occasion to wear one - outside in winter is about it actually. Can't that come into style here? I just bought a darling german/peter pan style hat at our thrift store and shoes to match.

I think I'll wear it like this one on 40s starlett Carol Landis with a blazer and jeans.

Source: google.com via Sarah on Pinterest

Now to find an outdoor event this fall....

Summer Buns

2011-06-20T13:50:00.000-06:00

Last summer I say a cute hairstyle suggestion in a magazine at a doctor's office similar to this:

Source: None via Julia on Pinterest

Three polished buns at the neck. I wore my hair like this a lot and got tons of compliments. I just sectioned my hair into three parts and twisted into buns then pinned with bobby pins.
Well I came across this cute tutorial the other day:

Source: myyellowsandbox.blogspot.com via Sarah on Pinterest

I liked that it was messier - so today I combined this tutorial with a fedora and I think it's a fun summer look:

Flat Stanley

2011-06-18T07:20:00.000-06:00

We recently came across the story of Flat Stanley, about a little boy who gets flattened and them mailed around the world on adventures. We decided to make our own Flat Stanley and send him off.

We printed out our Stanley here and the kids each colored one. I then made a little journal out of this free printable using my day planner technique, super easy. I created an instruction pocket out of this printable and sewed it on the front, leaving one side open. We folded up one of our Stanleys and put him in the pocket and mailed him off to our furthest cousin. The idea is for him to travel to six different people before making it back to us. Here's the instruction sheet if you would like to make your own...

Upcycled Crib

2011-06-17T20:02:00.001-06:00

So I saw this photo and fell in love with the bed bench -

Source: centsationalgirl.com via Sarah on Pinterest

It came straight to mind when we decided to move my youngest into a twin bed. We're not having any more children but I still love our crib and don't want to part with it. Since we have no room in the house for a bench I thought it would make great outdoor seating!

Luckily Hancock fabric is having a 50% off all outdoor fabric sale! Using 2 yards of the mattress fabric and 3/4 yard of the matching fabric I made a crib sheet following this tutorial and covered some pillow forms I had using this tutorial. I just happened to find the green ones at the local thrift store to add a pop of contrast. I'm so happy with it and know I will find myself lounging out there with a book while the kids play.

Fun Idea

2011-06-13T16:47:00.000-06:00

Source: one-little-minute.com via Sarah on Pinterest

I thought this was a great idea. Its for your pregnancy, you take a picture each week in the shirt to show how big your belly is growing! Next one to get preggers (which of course does not include me) is getting one of these!

Room Decor

2011-06-13T16:45:00.001-06:00

Source: tinywhitedaisies.tumblr.com via Sarah on Pinterest

I saw this and fell in love. I decided to make my own for my room redo:

I will be printing this in an 11X14 and framing it in a white frame to hang on one of my walls. I'll get pics once it's all put together...

Summer Fun

2011-06-13T16:42:00.000-06:00

This is our summer fun list - I'm having it printed in an 8X10 and we'll throw it in a frame. We'll use a white board marker to cross out the activities as we do them... what are your summer plans?

Dress

2011-06-10T20:10:00.000-06:00

Mom whipped together this dress to wear under our vintage pinafore (this belonged to mom)...super cute!

Caterpiller Cake

2011-06-10T20:05:00.000-06:00

My SIL made this darling cake for her boy's first birthday...super cute!

Ta Da....

2011-05-19T20:28:00.001-06:00

Here's the quilt for our bed. I love how the quilter quilted around the embroidery.

Notice the bumble bees in the brown border.

So long Heather Bailey.... :(

2011-05-19T20:06:00.001-06:00

Hello! Amy Butler....

Airplane Birthday

2011-05-17T16:13:00.000-06:00

I did a super simple airplane party for my son this week. We just had cupcakes and ice cream with minimal decorations. It was cute but all I could muster - ha ha.

Betsy and Joy

2011-05-04T17:23:00.000-06:00

So I've opened a vintage shop on etsy called Betsy & Joy - Joy is after my grandmother. My new favorite item is a 1940's wedding dress - it's gorgeous! I'll be listing an Edwardian white dress and a couple more sailor dresses for toddler girls soon... check it out by clicking on the Betsy & Joy button under my etsy pictures.

Ta-Da Baker's Twine

2011-04-28T21:28:00.001-06:00

Super easy and kinda fun. I followed the video on yesterday's post and easy peasy lemon squeezy. I used Bic permanant markers, I got a pack of 12 for $5 at Wal-Mart and a 100 yards of size 10 crochet yarn for $3.97. I think I should have bought the smaller package of size 5 for $1.97, as I got looking at my real baker's twine I think it's a bit thicker like the size 5. I also cut these little thread holders out of cardstock, but was thinking that the ones for embroidery thread would work great. Anyway I'm very happy with the results and will have plenty of twine for my up coming parties - Wahoo!

Sweet Idea!

2011-04-27T22:35:00.000-06:00

How to "make" your own bakers twine! I was just about to order some too. I'll be doing this tomorrow with a pack of sharpies!

Sarah Jane Studios

2011-04-07T11:32:00.000-06:00

So I've come across the most delieghtful artist on Etsy. Her name is Sarah Jane and she does gorgeous children's drawings. She has just put up on her blog this fun Peter and the Wolf Theater in printable PDF:

You can get the theater for free! If you go to her blog she has a survey and those who complete it will get a code for buy one get one free from her shop. The Peter and Wolf set are only $5.50. She has fun cards, prints and embroidery patterns too. I bought the theater set and got an embroidery pattern for free. I'll use it on a pillow for RJs new bed!

Chicken

2011-04-07T08:00:00.001-06:00

I bought a free range, hormone free, vegetarian feed, chicken at Wal-mart! I'm so glad they are offering them now, much more convenient and less expensive (although still more than the other kind). I followed this recipe for the spice rub and this one to cook it and make broth after. Very yummy, healthy and economical!

I'll use the chicken for these favorite recipes and in salad. Click on image to enlarge, then right click and save image as:

*recipe cards from papercrave.com

Etsy store

2011-04-06T17:41:00.002-06:00

I just opened an Etsy store for all the vintage things I find thrifting! So fun. Please check it out here. I will be adding more houseware type items in the near future. I need to have a modeling day to get better pics too...Carly you busy?

Working on...

2011-04-04T19:29:00.000-06:00

Butterick 5417 pattern. I'm using a cute art deco pink white and yellow print to go for a 30s/40s feel. If it goes well I might try this one next from Burdastyle:

Source: burdastyle.com via Sarah on Pinterest

Easter decor

2011-04-04T19:24:00.000-06:00

I saw this tutorial at Mama Michie's Musings and sent it over to mom to have her make one for me...super cute!

I got the tin and doily at the thrift store and the flowers at the dollar store -

Printable at Eighteen25...saucers and candles at thrift store - did you notice that the wicks are missing? Thanks to my 21 month old.

Eggs and bowl from dollar store - my kids check everyday to see if there is candy in them yet...

Eight generations scrap page

2011-03-24T12:57:00.000-06:00

So while scanning in pictures from my mom this weekend I came across eight generations of photos of women in my family. I saw this scrapbook on Ali Edwards and thought it would be fun to make a "baseball card" page of the photos for my daughter's book. First I made a 3.5 by 5 page in photoshop and put two photos on it (you can do this in Picnik too) like this:

I then had them printed at Inkley's (ritz pics) on Wed. for $0.06 a piece! I cut them out and placed them in the baseball sleeve:

This is an easy way to scrapbook a lot of pictures. Ali's scrapbook is a lot of fun. Check it out for more ideas - I think I'll be doing this 'week in the life' during our Lake Powell trip this year. I see a bag of red sand in one square :)!

Fun Hairstyles

2011-03-24T12:30:00.001-06:00

I've found some fun tutorials for hair that I've been using lately... especially since it's so long it's nice to pull it up in cute ways.
This one from Casey's Elegent Musings: Romantic Updo. I've done it just like the tutorial and I've also just done three buns in the back:

These next three are from a Japanese girl I found on You Tube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7xRPhy26x2k
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7LVC07WsZvM&feature=relmfu
http://www.youtube.com/user/binosusume#p/u/38/8et8urwW44k

This next one is from Princess Hairstyles - it's meant for mom's to do their daughter's hair, but I can do this one myself: http://www.princesshairstyles.com/2011/01/knotted-braid-hairstyle.html
I want to try this one next:
http://www.princesshairstyles.com/2010/12/how-to-french-braid-4-strand.html

Book Exchange Invite

2011-03-07T13:53:00.001-07:00

Les Bonnes Idees just gave us a wonderful award for our book party - check it out here. Also Michelle created this invite template because of all of the requests and interest in said Book Exchange Party for anyone to use! Thanks Chelle.
I hope to get another party together this spring with these two creative geniuses! I have a laundry list of cute ideas...
Book Check Out-Template

Wahoo

2011-02-27T21:05:00.000-07:00

I just won this Shabby Apple dress on At Second Street's giveaway! I've gotten lucky this year- so strange for me. It's called Happy Talk from their South Pacific collection. Now to work on my tan...

Valentines

2011-02-14T08:38:00.001-07:00

We used this as a bag topper for snack bags of candy. Super sweet!

quilt top accomplished...

2011-02-12T17:50:00.001-07:00

notice each corner has a star. i know it's different than i've ever had.

i really like the bright colors and vintage appeal in the embroidery.

i almost wish i hadn't added the brown border. i wanted to calm it down

a little. i'll do red for the backing and let the quilter have creatvie

license on the quilting. i always trust her. i will make pillow shams

while the quilt is being quilted. i'm not sure i want to make another

large quilt. and this one was easy.

the quilt so far...

2011-02-11T16:11:00.001-07:00

i put blocks on the corners. hope you can see them. now i will do borders

i also made some star blocks to add to it or maybe on the pillow shams

it's really bright, huh? let me know what you think...

quilt blocks

2011-01-28T15:06:00.001-07:00

here are the ebroidered quilt blocks i am using in my quilt.

Baby Food

2011-01-28T07:41:00.000-07:00

Magic Bullet has come out with this Baby Bullet - I think it's super cool! You can buy the storage stuff separately too. Go here to check it out - makes a great gift for someone who would want to do their own food.

I saw this on Blue Cricket Design

Family Tree Silhouettes

2011-01-15T12:36:00.001-07:00

I gave one of these to each of the families on my side for Christmas. I got the idea from here. I took a picture of everyone's profile at Thanksgiving and then turned them black in photoshop. I used Paisley Press' oval frame kit, which helped make sure everyone's silhouette was the same size. Underneath is each person's full name. Don't worry in-laws of mine, I hope to be doing one of these for us soon! (Anna your family's is in the mail!)

I won!

2011-01-13T14:42:00.000-07:00

Vixen Vintage did a giveaway for this beautiful sweater clip from Silver Lining Decor and I won! I never win anything... I almost bought a sweater clip yesterday from DI but it wasn't that great and now I'm glad I didn't, this one is so much better. I think I'll sew a summer dress to match. I just bought a bunch of vintage patterns at the DI so it will work out well - I hope!

Christmas Sewing

2011-01-13T14:38:00.000-07:00

I sewed my nieces and nephew's gifts this year but I forgot to take pictures...This is one of the aprons I made for my niece from this Mccall's pattern.

I'm also in love with vintage clothing right now - mainly the late 30s through the 50s - so for Christmas I wanted a plaid tafetta dress like this one... but I couldn't find one that I could afford. I decided to sew a circle skirt instead:

(sorry about the bad pictures). I used this poodle skirt pattern and Made's circle skirt tutorial to make it. Super easy, especially using wide elastic at the top. I threw together a netted slip to wear underneath, but have since ordered a vintage one for my summer dresses.

a quilt for my bed....REALLY!

2010-12-30T14:11:00.001-07:00

i have been planning to make a quilt for my monster

bed for about 4 years. I got this fabric for it. It will hav

squares in the center that have embroidery on them that

represent our family emblem...

NOW, TO GET TO WORK!

Finally! Apron

2010-11-11T19:00:00.000-07:00

I mentioned that I wanted to make myself this apron back in February - I actually cut out the pattern then and I just finished sewing it today! Wow - master of procrastination. The pattern is from here. It was really easy to follow and I'm loving the retro look, of course!

Dorothy

2010-11-01T18:46:00.000-06:00

We did wizard of oz this year - This is the only costume I made, isn't she cute though? The campaign is almost over, then I can get back to crafting/sewing. I have a million projects started that I need to finish!

First purchase

2010-10-19T18:31:00.002-06:00

First Quilt Top

2010-10-15T16:21:00.000-06:00

I finished my first quilt top! It's 36x36 using Bliss fabrics by Bonnie and Camille for Moda Fabrics. This is the square - it took a second to get the directions but was super easy to sew once I could follow it. Mom helped me figure it all out and showed me how to cut the fabric. I'll be using this in RJs new room.

Swaddle Help

2010-10-12T15:31:00.000-06:00

Isn't this great - I saw it on My Favorite Things who is having a giveaway - anyway it would be fun to include one of these guides with the baby blankets I usually give away.

Oli's new furniture

2010-10-11T19:42:00.000-06:00

Here are the pics of Oli's cute room!

Room #3

2010-10-09T18:54:00.001-06:00

For RJ's room I want to do a vintage/eclectic thing...surprise! I know I'm in love with old things. She'll defiantly have the bassinet set up for her dolls with the 30's stuff mom made. I'm thinking a clothing line with the vintage baby clothes we have on a wall, the kids table and chairs (painted), one of these ikea beds, a pinwheel quilt and vintage sheets. I would love to make her a kitchen set like this too.

Room #2

2010-10-09T18:37:00.000-06:00

First - have you seen Restoration Hardware's children's rooms? Gorgeous!

C's obsessed with planes and trains - so I'm thinking a travel room. A steamer trunk for toys, model planes and trains, maps, globe. He'll have the bunks and we'll need a dresser of some kind. I definitely don't want cheesy with this one - more of a classic take. I like the colors of the room in the second picture.

Ash's New Room

2010-10-08T17:51:00.000-06:00

So I'm thinking a Jr. Varsity theme. After I saw the book quotes Chelle made for our party I though it would make a cute room. White, Red, Black, Blue and Gray. All vintage or reproduction. I think I'll give him my old bed, keep it white but distress it a little with black. Pennants, wire locker baskets for storage, a chalkboard wall behind his bed. A "measuring stick" growth chart. Shadow boxes with the great grandma's yearbooks and diploma. His dad's letter jacket. I love the bat cork board from Pottery Barn and sports clock (we would attempt to make all this ourselves). Maps, globes, flash cards, children's books. I'm thinking a reading corner with his bookshelf and a little beanbag chair. I've wanted to redo one of those vintage desks too. What do you think? Any other ideas?

if winter is coming...

2010-10-06T16:22:00.000-06:00

we might as well look good keeping warm!

Carly's is a new pattern i found. ruffle scarf.

the grey one is the lacey pattern i made last year

with some new flowers.

Book Exchange Party + Freebie

2010-10-01T09:09:00.002-06:00

I've been thinking about this party since last spring. When my best friend Mac suggested we throw a party together with our other best friend Chelle, I knew this would be the perfect theme. Chelle is a graphic designer (who I'm trying to convince to open an etsy site) and Mac has great taste in decorating and is the most awesome baker ever - as one guest said when "our powers combine parties happen" - ha ha ha.

The idea of the party is to bring a book to exchange with someone else. We had the guests fill out this book plate (which we sent with the invite) and place it inside the book that they were giving away.

The book table decor. Behind the table are garlands strung with book pages and circles of scrapbook paper.

We gave book bags with a book journal and book marks to each guest. We played a little literature quiz that Chelle created, really cute and surprising how much you forget! For the actual book exchange we had each guest write their name on a piece of paper and then everyone drew another person's name to see whose book you would get. We had all the guests wrap their books before coming and so we each took turns unwrapping them and seeing what book we received. That created a lot of conversation and some of the guests left with a list of new books they "needed" to read.

Of course no party is complete with out delicious food:

I created the food labels from this card catalog generator.

We did a soup and grilled cheese sandwich buffet. The grilled cheeses were to die for - parmesan sourdough bread from great harvest yum! We cooked them on the George Foreman grill which made it super quick and easy!

Mac made the deserts, pumpkin cupcakes with cream cheese frosting - her own recipe! Chocolate cupcakes with gnash centers and cookie dough truffles - heaven.

Water bottles wrapped in paper from a book.

Great party - thanks ladies!

Because we've had a lot of requests Michelle decided to give us a free download of the invite! Just open it in photoshop and add your text!

Book Check Out-Template

Homemade Planner

2010-09-13T16:52:00.003-06:00

So my brain feels a little fried since school started again and my hubby finally went back to work (ha ha). Trying to get back into a routine is a relief but I'm also struggling to get it all together again - chalk it up to having kids! Well I love to write things down in a planner, I've been doing it since high school. Since being a stay-at-home mom though I haven't found the right planner for me. To many "appointment" spaces and not enough "to do" spaces. To solve my problem I made this planner page today:
Page 2

I printed a "cover page" with a calendar for the month of September. Then I printed the planner page (included in the download) on the back. I then printed it on the front and back of 7 pieces of paper to give me enough days for the month (does that make sense?). I took a cute piece of cardstock, cut it to size (8.5 x11), folded it and all the pages in half. Then I sewed right up the fold line with my sewing machine. I folded it in half again to re-crease it. Rounded the cover's corners with a punch and ta-da (as RJ would say) my custom planner for the month. I'm going to make one of these next. I'll probably have it printed and bound at my local copy center... I think they would make cute gifts too.

a new skirt for cecily...

2010-09-09T17:45:00.001-06:00

made from the other vintage pillow case.

New dress

2010-09-08T21:18:00.000-06:00

I've been thrifting a lot lately trying to find vintage sheets for our trailer. I found these satin-ish pillow cases and had to make a dress for RJ. Mom helped me, which was great cause this material frays super easily. I love how it turned out. I need to make matching bloomers tomorrow.

tis the season....

2010-09-06T15:16:00.001-06:00

i've been craftin...

2010-09-01T17:41:00.001-06:00

my fall tablescape and a new swag for

over the guest bed.

New Necklace

2010-08-30T16:22:00.000-06:00

This was a birthday gift - our cousin Betsy made it...she has some cute necklaces so check her out!

Prima Ballerina

2010-08-15T17:27:00.002-06:00

Anna and I threw a ballerina birthday party for her 3 year old CC. We took a lot of inspiration for the party from here. We made the decor and ballet shoe cookies and Anna made the cupcakes. We found a super nice guy and home depot to show me how to cut PVC pipe, which we used to make the ballet bar and backdrop for our "stage." We had a "ballet lesson" and then let the girls perform. It was so fun and they all seemed to enjoy being prima ballerinas for the day!

mini purse

2010-08-12T15:19:00.001-06:00

fun and easy purse to make. i don't think it

took 2 hours total.

Eli's quilt....

2010-08-10T16:28:00.000-06:00

Kim wanted red, white, and blue. I've

always wanted to do an american quilt!

Note the nautical prints...

table runners

2010-08-07T13:10:00.001-06:00

i made the halloween one for both of you.

the fall one is mine.