Fox Tale Follies

Graduation Cupcake Tower & "Hollywood Premiere" 8th Grade Dance

2011-06-13T10:46:00.007-04:00

My son Michael is graduating 8th grade this week (insert tears here), and this weekend was his 8th grade dance to celebrate this pending rite of passage. The 8th graders chose the theme "Hollywood Preimere".

In several moments of insanity during the parents meeting, I volunteered to make 100-150 cupcakes, a large sign, a movie clapboard and stars to put on the bathroom. Ummm, yeah...what was I thinking?

And then it occured to me that I needed to present the 100 or so cupcakes in a formal manner. After pricing a cupcake tower that would hold almost 100 cupcakes at the oh so low price of $99, it quickly became clear that this was going to have to be a DIY project.

So behold my homemade creation with a "Hollywood" flair...

The cost?

Between 10 and 12 dollars.

It held 92 cupcakes, but I think I could have put 100 on it if I had been more strategic at placing them.

So how did I make it you ask?

Well the Pepsi addiciton finally paid off! Pepsi cans and the support of the top tier is a baby formula container all wrapped in aluminum foil.

Each tier is made with some cardboard cakeboards, and I actually ended up cutting some of the tiers out of a heavier cardboard from a box we had laying around.

Note -

Should you make one, I would double the cakeboards by gluing them together to make them thicker and more durable)

The structure was amazingly strong and sturdy. I hot glued it all together, however there was a potential issue with the school's air conditioning so I began to worry that hot glue might begin melting in a humid hot environment so for a precaution, I also used some clear packaging tape to make sure it stayed together. But I will tell you that I accidently left out a tier and had a very hard time prying it apart, and I totally believe that the hot glue would have been fine.

I took the tulle and gathered it with my sewing maching to make a black ruffle and hot glued it on to the tiers.. Added silver and gold star garland I found at AC Moore which I also hot glued. And then topped it with a dollar store balloon weight, which I have to say went very well with the Hollywood Theme.

So here are some action shots..

And just for fun, here is the clapboard (with my son's school's name removed for safety reasons)

I used my Cricut to cut the letters out of white cardstock and then modpodged them on. I originally intended to use vinyl letterring cut out with the Cricut, but it refused to firmly stick to the OSB Wood that was donated. The modpodge worked great and sealed it so no worries.

And what about the large sign I made? A black twin flat sheet from Walmart for 4 bucks to which I once again used my Cricut to cut the letters, but this time out of white vinyl essentially making big vinyl letter stickers. I also cut the stars from cardstock with the Cricut and then chose to cover them in foil tissue paper that I found at Dollar General to glam it up.

Again, I removed my son's school's name for safety reasons.

I know the lettering was a bit crooked and that is because when I put them on, I had hung it up by a rope. It was intended to be hanging outside on a baseball field fence to be seen as the guests walked up, but because of threatening skies, we decided it was best to staple it up inside. The 2011 is seriously crooked because a certain toddler in my care decided to rearrange them an hour before I was suppose to leave to put it up so I just stuck them back on.

And here are some pictures of from the "Hollywood Premiere"

Another Mom made the Hollywood letters out of foam and Plaster of Paris. Then she made concrete bases with dows for them to be displayed. I love it! I think it really pulled together the theme.

The kids were given stars to decorate and those are the ones near the film strip.

And here is my son with one of his best friends.

They have been friends since they were infants, and

for the first time will be heading off to school in different directions come fall.

Everyone seemed to have a great time at the dance including all the moms!

Joining the parties over at....

Sweet little Emma!

2010-12-15T13:15:00.000-05:00

I apologize for my lack of postings in the past 6 + months. Morning sickness and fatigue kept me at bay, but now that is all over with the arrival of our sweet little Emma.

She was born in November, and we are so completely totally in love with her!

Sometimes the greatest gifts in life are the most unexpected ones like our darling Emma.

It's been a month and a half, and we don't know how we lived without her...

I mean look at these precious little piggies!

And this sweet little angelic face..I could just kiss her little chubby cheeks all day!

Big Brothers/Big Sister/Lil Sister shirts...

2010-10-26T15:42:00.002-04:00

We have probably one more week until we get to meet our newest bundle of joy and before she gets here, I had to make each of my kids a shirt to proudly announce the arrival of their newest sibling .

Enter my Cricut...

I had no idea that the Cricut was not only great for scrapbooking and cutting vinyl, but low and behold it also cuts fabric!!! Using the Cricut, not only saves time cutting the fabric, but it cuts almost perfectly...certainly better than I could have freehand.

If you're interested in the directions on how to cut fabric with the Cricut, check out Joy's Life for more information.

I used no sew Heat and Bond to make this the simpliest project ever. Just iron on the letters and they are permenantly attached. It doesn't get easier than this!

So here is the one for our new addition....

And one for the BIG 4 year old sister!

Then my 14 year old felt left out...I didn't think he would wear one, but he begged me to make him one so here we go...

And then I couldn't leave out my 18 year old stepson, even though he probably won't wear his

so here is the final results!

These shirts probably took less than an hour to make!

I will definately be using the Cricut to cut more fabrics becaue it was so easy!

Thank you Someday Crafts!

2010-08-28T15:33:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to stop in and say that my Bandana Quilt and Curtains were featured over at Someday Crafts!

I am so excited!!!! Someday Crafts is one of my favorite blogs and I am thrilled to have been featured!

If you are ever looking for inspiration, Someday Crafts is the place to go! Just click here!

Classic Cowgirl Bedroom....Bandana Quilt, Curtains and more!

2010-08-18T13:47:00.012-04:00

Due to our impending November arrival of our second daughter, we decided to make my sewing room into our 4 year old daughter's bedroom, and the new baby will have her old room. Ally wanted the theme of her new room to be horses, and she wanted it to be blue.

It soon became apparent that this low budget makeover was going to be blowing the budget if I purchased premade bedding so after brainstorming, I decided to make a quilt out of banadanas! It was a very easy and low cost way to get the look we were going for.

So without further adieu, I present to you Ally's "cowgirl" quilt!

This quilt cost me a whooping $18 dollars to make...

I spent $16 for 16 banadanas (Our Walmart sells them 2 for $2), the quilt batting I had picked up at a yardsale brand new over a year ago for $2, and I used a flat navy sheet from my stash of unused linens.

The bandana pillows cost me $2 each for the bandanas, but I used old throw pillows and recovered them. I also made a pillowcase from some scraps of eyelet to soften up the dark colors.

Originally I was just going to do eyelet curtains, but decided to make bandana panels on each side of the window to carry the theme. I also bought the white embroidered material on clearance which significantly saved me money compared to buying eyelet. The total cost for each window $12. I bit higher than I would have liked, but definitely worth it to carry the theme and soften the look. Eventually I also want to add tie backs, I might use rafia for that.

To start adding in the horse theme, I took two pictures that I had photographed during one of our trips to Assateague, Maryland and had them blown up into canvases, thanks to a special at ArtsCow. The canvases cost me a total of $16 for the two of them with free shipping.

I was very impressed with the quality of ArtsCow and they do have some great specials and credits. Shipping was a little slow and can be expensive if you don't get a deal on free shipping. They are located in Hong Kong hence slow shipping times. I framed both canvases, one frame I had already, the other I picked up at our local Goodwill for $2.

To carry on the cowgirl theme, I made a "rodeo" sign using a piece of scrapwood my Uncle was throwing out and used a stencil from my Cricut. Quick and easy, just stained the wood, stuck the vinyl stencil to the wood and spray painted it. The white hat was my late grandmother's so it has sentimentle value and the brown hat is one from my daughter's 2nd birthday party. The rack was bought at an antique store a couple years ago.

Total cost spent so far... $76

I still have some things that I want to add such as these bookshelves from Knock Off Wood (waiting for our 90 degree weather to break) and possibly make a new bed if I can get a great deal on wood , a nightstand, pictures and more accesories, but so far I LOVE how it looks!

I'm linking this project to....

I built it and you can too!

2010-05-26T08:09:00.002-04:00

One of the things I love most about the world of blogs is the inspiration and creativity that people are willing to share with others. I have mentioned before my adoration for Ana at Knock Off Wood. She lives in Alaska, and builds her own furniture...and has even built her own house with her husband! Her blog is filled with FREE plans on how to build furniture similar to pottery barn among other stores. And the best part, she caters her directions to the amateur woodworker like me!

So without further adieu...

here is the picnic table that I built with one of Ana's plans.

It took me about 6 to 7 hours total with cutting the wood (1hour), assembling (3-4 hours), sanding and painting (2 hours). I countersunk all my screws and hid them from screwing them through the bottom rather than through the top, this actually added a lot of time to the assembly.

My husband did help me with some assembly because I needed someone to hold the boards in place for the seats while I attached them from underneath, but other than that, I built it all by myself!!! And all it took was a miter saw and a drill!

This table cost me approximately $25 in wood. I chose to make it with non-pressure treated wood since it was going to be used for children, and I painted it with an exterior paint to help prevent it from decaying. I spent another $12 in screws and exterior wood glue. That being said, I still have plenty of screws and glue left for the next project. I also have a little wood leftover, and I am hoping to make something with the scraps. The paint was free as I already had it for another project.

I am very happy how it turned out, it is very sturdy and strong! It easily holds even my weight and my husbands. And the best part is that the kids love it! I know we'll be having lots of picnics and tea parties on it. It will definitely be put to good use!

Thanks Ana for the plans! I definitely have a list of future projects from your website!

My poor neglected blog....I've missed you!

2010-05-25T11:18:00.006-04:00

You know it has been awhile since you blogged when family starts called you and emailing you asking why you haven't blogged. Sorry to let everybody down, but we are in the midst of chaos over here. So here is a little update on life at Foxtale Follies.

Collin is graduating in one short month from high school, and he has picked out the college he will attend. He is working his butt off at two jobs trying to save enough money to cover his college tuition to avoid student debt. We are soooo proud of him for trying to avoid debt, and hope that we can help him in as many ways possible. I can't believe that he will be leaving us at the end of August to go live on campus...we are so excited for him, but sad to see him go. Although he assures us that he will be home every weekend, we are pretty sure that won't be happening. Last week was prom so things have been a whirlwind of excitment around here!

Michael has grown a foot in about a week. I realized it one day when I was lecturing him, and he was eye level with me...I actually had to stop what I was saying and regroup. I am six foot tall so he will be well over that, but I am not surprised...I always knew he would be the tall and skinny one. He reminds me a lot of my brother. He is really getting into bike riding, and that has been nice for him and his dad to do together. And he keeps bringing up the rule I have about no girlfriends until college...yeah, I am thinking someone is on his radar, but he is only in 7th grade...so really, does he need a girlfriend right now?? I think not! Right?!

Ally is getting ready to turn 4 next month, and wants a big party. I am pretty sure she isn't getting a big party! She has been such a joy to be around, and I am so glad that I have been able to be home with her through these years. Having a girl is way different than having boys, that I can say. But I have enjoyed both immensely, and I am really thankful that we were blessed with a girl. Each of the kids has brought us so much happiness!

And then onto our little suprise venture....this one really, really threw us for a loop. I always wanted a big family, my husband never envisioned having a big family. It's funny how things work out. We both decided after our daughter that we were not having anymore. We had a plan, I was going back to school once our daughter was in school herself. But one pregnancy test later, and life is what happens when you are busy making plans. We've accepted it, we're even excited about it. We find out next week what "it" is so we are happily making our predictions.

So that is life at the moment. Between party planning, doctors appointments, a camping trip, morning sickness, and the rigors of daily life we have been really, really busy, but not to worry....we're still around! (-;

Surprise....

2010-04-13T12:20:00.000-04:00

We are expecting another baby in November!

Hopefully I'll be past this morning, noon and night sickness quickly, and be back to blogging soon!

Hello stranger!

2010-03-17T13:58:00.000-04:00

Sorry I have been missing in action. Things have been a little crazy around here, and I have been under the weather...just not feeling myself these days.

I thought I'd just stop in and let you know about a website that I just found out about...Supercook. You just type in what ingredients you have at your house and it will find recipes for you based on what you have available. How awesome is that?

Hopefully I will be returning to blogging here shortly until then I hope things are well with all of you!

The "Drum" Cake...

2010-03-01T22:52:00.001-05:00

This year for cake class, I thought I would take things to the next level and make all my cakes from scratch. Last time, I did every cake out of a box...predictable and quick. I do make cakes occasionally from scratch, but I can't deny the convenience of box mixes!

For my cake for this weeks class, I decided to make Bakerella's Red Velvet cake. Our teacher asked us to icing it with a chocolate top so it would resemble a drum.

I spent most of my Sunday making my cake, making tons of icing for this weeks cake and next week's cake, and then icing the cake in prepartion for class. Basically I was working the time management skills that I don't usually have...I was feeling pretty great that I had everything prepared a day ahead of time because I am definately a procrasitnator and generally wait for a couple hours before class to begin my "masterpiece" (and I use that term in jest.)

So imagine my surprise, when my cousin and I are sitting in the parking lot at cake class talking about our cakes, and I realize that ....

I FORGOT MY CAKE!!!!

How do you forget to take your cake that you slaved over to cake class????

I had ALL my supplies and icing....but no cake!!!!

Luckily I was able to run back home and get it, and the class was nice enough to sit and chat while I was gone so I didn't miss a thing!!

So what did I learn from all this????

That I do much better waiting to the last minute!!! (-:

So I present to you the "Drum" cake...aka the crazy clown cake.

I have to say when I saw just the "drum" cake that my teacher made, I wasn't seeing the whole picture. She hadn't added the clowns yet so I was thinking it was a pretty unimpressive project albeit a great cake for practicing.

But the clowns definitely make the cake...and they are so easy to make.

The clowns are made from 4 miniuature marshmallows on a toothpick, piped in a two tone icing. Obviously the heads are plastic picks....The drum is actually a marshmallow.

And just for the record, it is perfectly acceptable in the world of cake decorating for clowns to have large, funky feet...actually it is preferred. (-;

And here is my daughter patiently waiting for me to finish up pictures so she can dig in.

I asked her what her favorite part of today was defininately thinking she would tell me playing with her cousin while I was at cake class, but she said the best thing today was eating some of my cake. So I guess we can call it a winner no matter how it looks!

And this is my elusive son giving it a thumbs up. He hasn't gotten any blog time lately because he manages to avoid me and the camera, but today he allowed me to take a picture so I am definately posting it!

And this picture explains why the cake was not level in the least bit. I thought I had done a great job leveling it, and that might have been true...it was the 2 inches of frosting heaped in the middle that made it unlevel.

So tonight was a good night, learned some new things and had a great time with new and old friends.

Can't wait till next week!

Another journey....same path.

2010-02-24T09:34:00.001-05:00

I am diving into the world of cake decorating once again because everybody knows I could use the practice!! Last spring, I was able to take a free class at our local school and immensely enjoyed myself. My cousin, Meeper, and I have the best time and our teacher adores us...I think.

Who doesn't like two giggly girls talking and interrupting with our two cents? We might just have to take over the class with our wisdom. After all, things went so great last time, that we are like pros...sort of...kinda...not so much.

See exhibit #1.....

And exhibit #2

And what happens in the car...umm...yeah, well it stays in the car.

But they weren't all diasters...

So we'll just have to see if improvement can be made, but either way, we are going to have fun doing it!!! Lots and lots of fun, and lots and lots of cake!!!

If you live locally, anybody is allowed to come to the cake class, even those outside our township. It is free, however you do have to buy some cake supplies.

Let me know if you are interested and I can give you the details!

The more, the merrier!!

Greyson's Gift and Charity for this month!

2010-02-23T08:34:00.001-05:00

My late January commitment to Greyson's Gift has been fulllfilled.

I made 5 blankets and shipped them to Meryntha last week. It probably took less than an hour to make them all, and I hope they provide comfort to someone who needs it.

If you are interested in donating homemade blankets to Greyson's Gift, click here for more information.

As we really want our children to take part in acts of goodwill, this month my hubby had them shovel out friends and relatives driveways from all the snow we were hit with. Unforunately, I don't have any pics of them as I stayed home with my daughter, but I was proud that the boys were able to do this to help those that are unable to handle the hard work....and yes, it was HARD work! Fred, Collin and I also helped dig out a friend, and it was not an easy task, I haven't had a workout like that for a very loonnngg time!

This month, I am commiting to contribute 3 notebooks to the Write It Out Project. One of the blogs I follow, I Make Stuff put out the call for fellow crafters to help her help others by making special journals to encourage military widows to express their sorrows through a unique journal. Alida, the writer of I Make Stuff, is an Iraqi War widow, and this cause is near and dear to her heart.

If you are interested in participating in the Write It Out Project, please visit this site for more information.

Men's Dress shirt to Little Girls Jumper

2010-02-16T15:13:00.003-05:00

I have been working on A LOT of sewing projects in the last couple months while we have been snowed in, and this one was the first...a girls jumper from a men's button down shirt.

Unforunately I can't find the "before" picture, but this shirt is pretty similiar except the one I used had two pockets meaning more work for me ripping the pockets off, but so worth it.

The best part of this sewing project is that a lot of the major sewing is already done for you. Basically the back of the shirt becomes the front of the jumper allowing you to utilize the yoke and the pleat.

The front of the men's shirt becomes the back adding character with the lovely row of buttons. This row of buttons adds charm, but best of all, I didn't have to master them because it was already done for me!

I used the material from the sleeves to make the simple shoulder straps, and I have enough leftover to make a headband in the future. This time I attached the straps too far apart so I'll probably be fixing that at some point, but for now we can live with it. All in all, I am pretty pleased with this creation.

I tried to get some shots of my daughter in "action" so I bribed her (don't judge). I let her have one of the roses hubby got me for Valentine's day...so just ignore the fact that it looks like she is going to eat it. (-;

I am linking this post to Kimba's DIY day...check out the tons of creativity gathering over there!

And also I'm linking to Somewhat Simple Strut your stuff Thursday! Lots more inspiration over there!

**If you are interested in reconstructing your own creation, check out craftster for a great tutorial. It definately helped me on this project.

Happy Valentine Day!

2010-02-14T16:08:00.003-05:00

Allyson and I made some yummy cookies yesterday, they were even better than I expected. I am not a big fan of sugar cookies, but these were pretty good.

I got the recipe from Blue Cricket Design. You can find it here.

Ally believes every sugar cookie should have a mound of sugar on it...

She especially enjoyed making 3 giant cookies for her daddy, and brothers. I am sure they appreciated the pink gooey delights as much as she enjoyed making them...they are such big fans of pink!

(-;

Did you know Ally is going to marry her daddy someday? Yup, they are going to the waterfall and gettin' married. She told me so.

I have a picture of my husband and I on our wedding day standing in front of a waterfall so she thinks that is how you get married. Isn't it cute how little girls adore their daddy's?

Anyways, I have something to tell my hubby....who is known to frequent my blog in the wee hours of the morning...(yes, hun, I know your little secret of how my blog is on your must read list-)

Dear hubby,

Your love is better than ice cream.

(A quote from Sarah Mclachlan and her song Ice Cream..you know I love Sarah McLachlan-just not at funerals.)

Thank you for everything you do!

I LOVE and APPRECIATE you everyday
even when I don't show it!
Love, Your wife of almost 10 years

(by the way, for future reference - 10th anniversary presents should be ~~tin, aluminum~~ diamond(s), just saying)

XOXOXOXOXO

Winter Wonderland...

2010-02-10T21:39:00.000-05:00

Another day...

Another Blizzard...

Honestly this measurement doesn't accurately gauge our snowfall

because the winds have picked up and the snow is blowing everywhere.

It snowed significantly this past weekend, my son thought he was getting a snow day on Monday, but his school was the only one open in the county. He was so disappointed!!!

But with last night and today's snowfall, he is now off today and tomorrow. Also lucky for him, he is off for President's weekend so he doesn't go back to school till Tuesday...6 whole days off!

Flashback Friday - Our summer vacation to Acadia, Maine!

2010-02-05T16:13:00.001-05:00

Friday Flashback - Vacation Memories 2009

Last summer, we were forunate enough to go on vacation to

Acadia, Maine. The good life is definitely over abundant in beautiful Maine!

Every other year, my parents, my brother's family and our family

embark on a new adventure together.

This is the house we rented about a half hour from Acadia...

A private retreat nestled on a beautiful pond.

We spent our time kayacking and canoeing around the pond...

Exploring Acadia National Park by a horse drawn carriage...

Evening bonfires and nightly kayack trips...

Gorgeous sunsets and beautiful night skies...

Lots of bike riding at Acadia to amazing places...

Dipping our tootsie's in cool spring water after a long bike ride...

But things didn't get really exciting until we starting climbing up the Precipice trail...one of the most treacherous trails in Acadia National Park...

My 13 year old and I decided to climb the mountain, forunately he had already done it earlier in the week with his uncle so under his guidance, we treked on.

Over wood bridges...

On stone steps...

Did I mention that I am afraid of heights?????

But Michael encouraged me to keep moving because it was starting to get dark...

We made it after some treacherous ladder climbing (with missing and bent rungs!)

The views from the top were amazing!!!

And then we started our journey down the mountain,

totally got lost in the dark (we weren't the only ones)

and my hubby had to drive around to find us.
And he didn't even complain about it,
although he said next time, maybe we should carry a map....
which probably wouldn't have been a bad idea. (-:

So this is my summer flashback
because tonight we are suppose to have about two feet of snow....
and although I LOVE snow, I am a little tired of being cold all the time!!!
But at least we are prepared with lots of movies to watch.

Hope everyone has a great and safe weekend!

Snow Day!

2010-01-31T21:24:00.000-05:00

Spent the weekend hanging with the kids...

movie night Saturday night

and snow play today!

Back to the grind tomorrow!

Hope everybody had a great weekend, we certainly did!!

(-;

Chocolate Lovers Beware!

2010-01-26T18:42:00.000-05:00

My kids love S'mores. We go camping a lot, but never enough...and one of the kids favorite things to do is to make s'mores over a campfire. So when I saw a recipe for S'mores Cupcakes, I was all over it!!

If you haven't checked out Bakerella's blog, you must go NOW. She makes the most awesome creations like these and these and even these...and did you know that she has even been to Pioneer Woman's house? I'm jealous!

So today, I decided to finally make the S'mores cupcakes from Bakerella's post for my stepson's robotics team. And let me tell you, these cupcakes do not disappoint...and they are VERY chocolately for all you chocolate lovers. The kids LOVED them!

It's all in here...graham crackers, chocolate, marshmallows, more marshmallows and topped with a chocolate ganache...a yummy, gooey, messy delight!

All I can say is AWESOME!!!

So if you are looking for a sweet treat, check out Bakerella for lots and lots of ideas.

She does not disappoint!

A New Year and a New Commitment...

2010-01-23T13:44:00.001-05:00

I have been thinking a lot about this New Year that we are in, and all the things that will be happening this year with my own family and with others. I decided this year not to make any resolutions.

But I am making a commitment...I decided this year that I will expand on my charitable contributions, not financially, but in a more concrete way. I am constantly reminded that people are hurting, suffering and in crisis, and I need to help.

So after talking to my husband about this and how I feel led to do such a thing, I have decided to jump in with both feet.

This year, I am commiting myself to giving back...to those locally that have helped me...and to those I have never met...

So every month, I am going to focus on a charity or even a person that I can help in some way, it maybe making something, raising money for a charity, or voluteering, but I have decided that I need to make a difference.

The contribution that I making this month is to Greyson's Gift. Greyson's Gift was started after a mother lost her child a couple days before his birth. I personally know two people that lost have suffered such enoromous loss. One child died a couple days prior to birth, the other died from SIDS within the first year.

And those of you in blogland probably don't know that I suffered many miscarriages and an ectopic pregnancy prior to my daughters birth hence the reason that my 13 year old and my 3 year old are 10 years apart, but thankfully I have never experienced the pain of a stillborn. As my suffering was immense, I am sure that their suffering is even greater.

So I am commiting 5 blankets to Greyson's Gift so that a beloved baby can be nestled in a homemade blanket while being cradled in its mother's arms for the first and last time.

Won't you join me?

Our newest tradition - A 5k walk-run (or crawl)

2010-01-17T21:06:00.000-05:00

My cousin Laura decided this year that it would be a great idea for our family on my dad's side to start doing an Annual 5k (3 mile) run/walk or crawl in my case.

I wasn't going to go until Meeper called me and convinced me that I should meet her at the half way point!

Here is Meeper and my Aunt Di moving right along because they were being timed.
It isn't often that all my cousins are able to get together, especially since one of my cousins lives on the west coast. I think this event will be a nice way to keep us getting all together. Great idea Laura!

And here is the finish line...lots of family and friends waiting for us!

I was disqualified since I only walked half of it, but they did offer me half an apple. (-:

I guess half an apple is better than no apple!

My family ROCKS!!!

Thanks Laura for thinking of a terrific way to keep us all together through this walk!

Today's the day )-:

2010-01-15T21:43:00.001-05:00

Today was my stepson Collin's VERY LAST DAY of high school.

He is enrolled in what we call an "Academy" around here so he has been in a very accelerated high school program. And Tuesday, he'll continue with college classes as part of his Engineering Academy, but he won't have to go to the high school anymore. He'll complete his college classes in May, and then graduate with his high school class in June with lots of college credits.

What a whirlwind! Can he really be graduating this JUNE??

Last night, we had a parents meeting at the high school to discuss college and financial aid. It was packed with hopeful parents and tons of seniors all wondering what the future was going to hold for them. It was then that I realized that Collin had one more day left of "high school"...I knew the day was coming, but was it really here?

As we were walking the high school halls afterward, I asked Collin if he was sad that he wouldn't be walking these halls anymore after this week.

He was laughing too hard to answer!

Every Friday and sometimes other random days, Collin's friend Clay comes to spend the afternoon hanging out. So I figured that if today was going to be the last time they had to attend the high school that they should celebrate their hard work and accomplishment so I made them a cake this morning.

I am so proud of these two and all their accomplishments!

Now we just have to make sure they can find their way to the college on Tuesday.

(-;

Friday Fill In's - THANK GOD IT'S FRIDAY!!!!!

2010-01-15T09:11:00.000-05:00

1. The lesson I learned yesterday was easy come, easy go!

2. Rockband at my house is where friends and family meet. (Another party is in the works, just trying to figure out Fred's schedule!)

3. All these years and I have been so thankful that I have been able to be there for the important stuff and even the not so important stuff.

4. The fun began when I arrived.

5. The truth is people tend to take advantage of other people and that always continues to amaze me!

6. Panic and suffering is what I remember most from that day.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to celebrating Collin's very last day of high school, tomorrow my plans include doing tons of video editing and Sunday, I want to really work on some sewing projects and hang out with the family! Should be a nice restful weekend....should be!

Heartbreak & Healing...

2010-01-13T11:28:00.001-05:00

Things around here have been pretty blah lately...

and you aren't going to believe what the cause of that has been...

This.

My grandmom passed away on Christmas Eve. Within hours of her death, this cookbook was taken from her home. Maybe innocently, maybe not so much. Either way, its not for me to judge, but the only thing that matters to me is it is gone. Vanished.

My grandmom was known to all who loved her as an AWESOME cook. As a matter of fact, besides being all about her family, her number one love was cooking. She made her own bread her WHOLE life. I don't mean in a bread machine, although when her arthitisis kicked in, we were able to get her to use one. If you have never had homemade bread, it is SO MUCH BETTER than processed bread, and way healthier!!!

She made everything from scratch. Every meal was well planned and executed from scatch.

She also was the one who inspired my love for baking. I am not a cook, but I am a baker. Growing up, she was always baking treats for us. Creme puffs, pies, cupcakes, jelly rolls, pie tarts, cookies. She never stopped, she was always making something and it was always from scratch.

But the creation I loved most was her homemade donuts. It doesn't get better than this. Every Christmas Eve she made them for us...it was a tradition, and when she couldn't make them anymore, we made them under her direction.

Forunately, I asked my grandmom to teach me how to make them for Collin's robotics team about 3 years ago. And even more forunate was that I typed up the recipe on my laptop because who knew that the book with the donut recipe would vanish within hours of her death.

It has broken my heart to lose my grandmom, but to know that book with all those treasured recipes is gone makes it feel like losing her twice over. I never thought I would get possession of that book, but I at least thought I would have the opportunity to copy all those recipes that she made for us...for me.

And then they were gone as quick as she was..actually even quicker.

I felt a little better when I saw Ebay had some even though I couldn't be sure of the year, I thought it was probably around 1950. My husband told me to order one knowing how distraught I was about it, but considering we are just starting to recover from financial ruin, I couldn't buy something like that right now. It would have to wait till we could afford it in a few months.

And then something wonderful happened. Like it was meant to happen. I was talking to my other grandmom, and she started talking about the squirels in her attic. And how when her son was up there, she asked him to bring down a box...

that had cookbooks in it.

Specifically this cookbook.

A 1946 Betty Crocker cookbook.

WITH THE DONUT RECIPE.

(It's hard to find, and not in any of the current Betty Crocker books)

After she told me about how she was looking through it in the afternoon, I asked her if I could copy some of the recipes out of it and told her the saga of the missing cookbook.

And she told me I can have it. Just like that.

She gave it to me!

We had a nice visit reminscing about my deceased grandmom. They were friendly and she thought a lot of her.

I am so happy!

Thank you grandmom for something I will treasure ALWAYS!!! The book was given to her by her mother when she got married so it is definitely something to be treasured.

And I am once again reminded that things usually work out in the end...

And to the person that originally took the book, I got way more than that book. Grandmom gave me tons and tons of memories and you can't take them away from me!!!!!

FIRST Robotics Kick Off!!!

2010-01-09T09:20:00.000-05:00

Today is the official start of the robotics season for my stepson Collin's robotics team, and we are so excited!

I am especially excited that we have finished our portion of the fundraising so shout out to all the people that have contributed and supported Collin in this journey. He is truly in awe of the support he has recieved in the past three years as he has embarked on this endeavor.

This will sadly be Collin's last year with the team now that he is a senior in high school...

At 10am this morning, NASA will begin broadcasting this year's game and rules via this link. Each team will recieve a "parts" package and have six weeks to design and then build a robot that can participate and hopefully win in the game.

And just to recap last season...

Here was our robot! I am going to miss her!

Last year was such an exciting season for the team. Our team made it to the quarter finals in the Philadelphia competition.

And then we were finalists at the Finger Lakes Competition.

Here is Collin (on the left) with his team after being finalists at the Finger Lake Competitions.

Then in the off season, they actually WON the competition that they were also hosting! We are so proud of Collin and of his team!

I can't wait to see the design of this year's robot unfold...and the best part is going to the first competition and seeing how different all the robots are designed. It is pretty amazing what these teams are able to pull off, and the creativity that goes into each and every robot.

So here is wishing the LuNaTeCs a great new season!

Pottery Barn Inspiration...AND a ROCKIN' new blog find!!!

2010-01-08T09:51:00.003-05:00

I love Pottery Barn...I love looking at the catalogs and swooning over the furniture dreaming of what my house could look like. But I am on a seriouly meager budget...actually it is laughable to even call it a budget at this point. Pottery barn has definitely inspired my decorating though!

When I was pregnant with my daughter, I used pottery barn to inspire her nursery...if I couldn't buy it, it was up to me to make it.

First my dear hubby had to lay down laminate flooring. The laminate flooring was a gift from my brother and his wife after my failed attempt to refinish the floor in there. You gotta love free flooring! (-:

I made "pottery barn" inspired shelves over her windows for more storage as her bedroom is quite small and we could use all the storage we could get! They made a great place to display all the dolls and knick knacks I got at my baby shower, and I added my wedding bouquet just because it coordinated so well with the room.

I sewed gingham curtains just like pottery barn had at the time, then paired them with some white sheers and used wrought iron (spray painted white) hearts for the tiebacks.

I found an old nightstand at a thrift shop and gave it new life with some white paint. Fred's grandmom gave us an old rocker that I also painted white and I made new slipcovers for the cushions.

I love on summer days when the breeze blows through the sheers, it reminds me of my grandmom's house. Anyways, that is how it looked when I started, it has evolved since then as my daughter is now 3, but that is a whole different post.

But today my friends, I am posting to introduce you to my new favorite blog...that I just stumbled acrossed this morning, and I AM IN HEAVEN!!!!!! It seriously will change my life. I am going to dust off my nail gun, miter saw and jigsaw and get busy...well I might wait for the weather to warm up, it is a bit chilly out to be woodworking around here.

So check out this blog...

Knock Off Wood

Pottery Barn Shelves for $900

The $60 knock off from Knock Off Wood

Those bookcases ROCK!!

But wait till you see what else she has "knocked off"...

The "Pottery Barn" Farmhouse bed

THIS IS MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITE!!!

I am really inspired now, and guess what? You can make all these projects because she gives you the plans FOR FREE!!!! That's right, she makes the projects, draws up plans and YOU can make them too! All she asks is that you leave comments if you have any tips or suggestions to add.

HOW FREAKIN AWESOME IS THAT?

So come on ladies, get out those tools,

and show these men just how talented you really are!

You can do it!

And your first stop should be Knock Off Wood!

Have you had your mammogram?

2010-01-05T16:42:00.003-05:00

Tomorrow my Aunt will be having surgery, specifically a lumpectomy, for stage 0, noninvasive breast cancer. Luckily her cancer was caught early thanks to a yearly mammogram! Despite her challenges, she has asked that we all spread the word on just how important a mammogram is for a woman's health.

So if you are of the age, please get your mammograms ladies!

Early detection can save your life!!!

My aunt posted this to her facebook account and I thought I'd share....it's a fun way to get across an important message...

Be happy and healthy Aunt Bobbi!! Love ya!

Partying like a ROCK STAR!!!

2010-01-04T19:53:00.001-05:00

On New Years Day, Fred and I had an impromptu party with my brother and his family as well as my cousin Meeper and her family.

Can I just tell you how much I love Rockband on the Wii????

We had such a GREAT time!

I can't wait till another free weekend when we can do it again!

We were always meant to say goodbye...

2009-12-25T10:31:00.008-05:00

Yesterday, I lost one of my best friends...my grandmom.

The woman I spent my best childhood memories with,

the woman who taught me so many things...

the woman I named my daughter after...

there could be few losses that could compare to losing her.

Merry Christmas From Heaven

Author: John Wm. Mooney, Jr.

I still hear the songs

I still see the lights

I still feel your love on cold wintry nights

I still share your hopes

and all of your cares

I'll even remind you

to please say your prayers

I just want to tell you

you still make me proud

You stand head and shoulders

above all the crowd

Keep trying each moment

to stay in His grace

I came here before you

to help set your place

you don't have to be

perfect all of the time

He forgives you the slip

If you continue the climb

To my family and friends

please be thankful today

I'm still close beside you

In a new special way

I love you all dearly

now don't shed a tear

Cause I'm spending my

Christmas with Jesus this year.

Thanks for the memories Grandmom!

I'm dreaming of a white Christmas....

2009-12-22T11:29:00.000-05:00

Except I don't have to dream anymore!

We got about two feet of snow this past weekend...what a treat!

It snowed all day and night Saturday, and it was beautiful.

My cousin and I treked into the woods last week and made these beautiful boughs of evergreen, ground pine, holly and pine cones for our front windows.

I love them, especially with the snow on them!

At night, our tiny little town sparkled with lights as they reflected in the snow. Fred and I took a nice stroll down the deserted street to the church so Ally could see the manger and we could check out all the lights in their glory.

It was so quiet and peaceful as the snow continued to fall.

What a great night to rejoice in the season!

I love snow and I love Christmas so what a great gift to have snow around Christmas time! When Fred got out of work early Saturday, he came right in and said I know you have to be happy right about now...He had no idea!

But I will confess that I didn't have to do much shoveling so my happiness remained intact. (-;

And there was A LOT of shoveling to be done....

My stepson car was in here somewhere....but we dug that out yesterday.

My van is now a sledding hill....

Hopefully we'll get some sledding in before it all melts,

but I think we have a couple days before we get some rain.

I hope you all get what you are hoping for this holiday season!

Ornament Swap

2009-12-22T09:50:00.000-05:00

As I mentioned before, Ally and I participated in the 2009 Kids Ornament Swap sponsored by The Crafty Crow and Full Circle. The theme for this years swap was "Fairytales". You can check out what Ally and I made by going here.

Below are the awesome ornaments we have recieved..

An adorable "Little Red Riding Hood"....

A beautiful Christmas tree...

A magical "Poinsetta Fairy"...

The handsome Old Rabbit-Grabber from The Bremen Town Musicians...

What a joy to go to the mailbox and find such unique homemade ornaments! I loved seeing what everyone came up with, and you can be sure that we will definitely be participating in next years swap!

Happy Holidays!

Thank you!

2009-12-21T12:52:00.002-05:00

Cynthia of Creative Chaos has never met me. She only knows me through my blog and I through her blog, but she has touched me this holiday season.

Friday I recieved a package from Cynthia, and inside was the most beautiful pettiskirt I have ever seen for my daughter. It brought tears to my eyes and joy to my daughter! Thank you so much Cynthia for your kindness and generosity!!! What a beautiful gift! When I pulled it out, my daughter said, "This is what I have always wanted!!!!!"

We immediately put it on her, and she spent the rest of the day happily twirling and dancing in her new purple pettiskirt. I am just amazed with the quality of the sewing, and the hardwork that went into making this skirt. It is gorgeous! Cynthia, I just can't thank you enough...thank you for thinking of us this holiday season!

Cynthia has many talents so check out her blog, but you'll really want to see the replica she made of the house in "UP" using Gingerbread right here. It's amazing!

Merry Christmas Cynthia to you and your family!

Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it Snow....

2009-12-19T10:15:00.006-05:00

Today is our first significant snowfall of the season....

It is going to snow all day and hopefully all night tonight...

And we are going to enjoy ...

every

single

minute.

Sledding, shoveling, hot chocolate, baking gingerbread men, warming in front of the pellet stove, making snowmen, watching Christmas movies, being all together....memories are made on days like this.

Today is going to be a very good day! (-:

So

LET IT SNOW, LET IT SNOW, LET IT SNOW!

Run, Run as fast as you can...

2009-12-15T08:38:00.003-05:00

You can't catch me, I am the gingerbread man!

Ally and I are participating in the ornament swap courtesy of The Crafty Crow. This year's swap theme was fairytales. We decided to make gingerbread ornaments out of cinnamon and applesauce based on the story "The Gingerbread Man" as seen here.

Per the swap rules, we mail an ornament to 5 people and then we will recieve ornaments from 5 people. Ally is very excited to see what everyone else made, and to be honest, I am too!

Cinnamon Applesauce Ornament Recipe

3/4 cup of applesauce

1 container of cinnamon (appx. 4oz.)

Mix together with your hands as it is A LOT of cinnamon that needs to be combined, then you can knead it after the cinnamon is mixed in.

Place a portion of the dough between two sheets of plastic wrap, and roll out. Remove the top plastic and using cookie cutters, cut into desired shapes. You may also use a drinking straw to poke hole for hanging.

Bake at 200 degrees for 2-3 hours until hard. Allow to cool.Then attach ribbon for hanging. I also used puffy white paint to outline them.

I am excited to see what great ideas others came up with!

Shhhh...it's a secret...

2009-12-11T21:38:00.004-05:00

This Christmas I am trying to make most of my gifts which has caused Christmas Chaos around here!

I have been working on American Girl doll clothing for two of the little girls that I babysit. For the first time, I totally sewed from a pattern, and it was sooooo easy!!! I not sure why all of a sudden sewing is starting to make sense to me, but I am loving it and finally feel like I might just know what I am doing!

Here are just a few of the MANY outfits I have made.

I made this entire outfit and coat except the shoes. I was thrilled how easy it was to make the coat, and I really like the way it turned out! The sweater she is wearing was made from a dollar store sweater. The skirt was made from a dollar store Christmas tea towel.

I made this sweatsuit out of a pair of old sweatpants and then did a reverse applique to make the heart.

I really planned on making them both a Christmas dress for their dolls, but I am just not sure I am going to have the time because now I need to start on clothes for my daughter's doll for Christmas. I am hoping to redo a cradle she already has, make her some clothes for her doll and maybe a diaper bag. Wish me luck!

Request Sent!

2009-12-10T12:20:00.002-05:00

Eagerly awaiting reply....

Salt Dough Ornaments

2009-12-08T07:00:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday, Michael, Ally and I made salt dough ornaments so we could decorate my grandmom's little tree at the nursing home.

Salt Dough Recipe

4 cups of flour

1 cup of salt

water

food coloring

Mix together, then knead..you can add food coloring as desired. Roll out on cookie sheet and using cookie cutters, cut shapes. We did this on the cookie sheet to prevent fragile mishaps. We also used a drinking straw to make a hole to hang as ornaments.

Bake at 325 degrees for apprx. 1/2 hour or until hard to the touch.

My grandmom enjoyed watching us decorate her tree, and I am sure it will bring her some comfort and a reminder of our love when she is alone. She loves Christmas so she was very happy that my Uncle gave her this tree, and that it is now decorated...

Get well Grandmom...We love you!

She makes her momma proud....most of the time. (-:

2009-12-06T10:31:00.007-05:00

Today something extraordinary happened....

my little girl, my little mini-me became a DIY girl just like her mamma!

I walk into the kitchen and what do I see?

My little girl fixing her broken horse with painters tape!

This moment of pride is not to be confused with

the other moments we experienced in the past month....

Like....

covering the dog in postage stamps,

painting with pudding on the fridge door,

feeding the dog my homemade donuts

or leaving real pumpkins in her closet to rot.

Yup, that's my girl! And she is sooooo like her momma -

the good and the bad!

Frugal Decorating...Tomato Cage Christmas Trees

2009-12-04T08:42:00.013-05:00

Would you ever guess that these "Christmas Trees" are really just tomato cages turned upside down and wrapped with pine garland?

A very easy and frugal way to decorate for the holidays with something most gardeners have in storage over the winter months.

For starters, you need to dig out those old tomato cages sitting in your barn or garage.

For those unfamiliar with them, these cages are used to provide stability to your tomato plant.

This cage is bent up pretty good, but for purposes of showing you exactly what I am talking about, it will suffice.

Take the prongs of the tomato cages which would normally be inserted into the ground, and secure them together.

I used duct tape, but you could use a variety of materials. As you can see, when placed upside down, it resembles a christmas tree shape.

Next you wind an evergreen garland around the structure, and add any embellishments.

Some people even use real evergreen tree branches, holly, apples, and ribbon to dress up their trees.

I have to say that this project turned out WAY better than my expectations. I think these would also make great trees to flank the front door!

I secured my trees with some large garden hooks/staples that are typically used for securing weed blocker to prevent the wind from blowing them over.

I can't tell you how excited I am about this project because it definitely gives great results with little effort...and thankfully I had all the supplies at home so it was completely free for me to make 3 of them!

Thanksgiving 2009 - The Recap!

2009-11-30T21:50:00.009-05:00

Thanksgiving morning, the kids and I stopped in to see my dad's mother. We lost my grandfather around this time last year so I know that she is particularly lonely around the holidays.

After visiting for awhile, we headed over to my grandparents farm (my mom's parents). Unforunately my grandmom on my mom's side recently was admitted to our local nursing home so this was a hard holiday for us, especially as her health continues to decline.

Here are my cute nephews roaming the farm.

My brother teasing Ally like Uncles have to do while my mom watches.

Me and my little miracle, Ally, hanging out after dinner.

Ally is named after my grandmother as a matter of fact. (-:

After dinner, we all went up and visited my grandmom in the nursing home.

Unforunately it seems her health continues to decline.

(Picture taken Christmas 2008)

Please say a little prayer for her in hopes that things will improve.

One thing that I am definitely thankful for in my life is that my children know my grandparents as if they were their own grandparents. They have seen them on a regular basis and that makes me very thankful to know that my grandparents have influenced them each in their own ways.

I hope everybody had a GREAT Thanksgiving...

there is certainly a lot to be thankful for! (-;

The $1 dress...

2009-11-29T20:06:00.007-05:00

We're broke. My dear hubby has been on disability since August, with the exception of two weeks in September. My daughter needed a dress for our Thanksgiving dinner, and we're broke. Did I mention that already? (-;

Anyways, Dollar Tree and Make It and Love It to the rescue.

When I saw the dress that Ashley from Make It and Love It made from a sweater for her adorable daughter, I was impressed.

Coincidentally I went to Dollar Tree around the same time as seeing that post, and what did I see?

Why an ivory sweater for a DOLLAR!!! SCORE!

I have to admit that I was pretty nervous about cutting into a sweater, even a dollar sweater. I guess I had it in my head that the whole thing would unravel after I cut it, and that I would never be able to do the sleeves. But since it wasn't even in my size, I bit the bullet and just did it!

And I am so happy that I did because it wasn't hard AT ALL!!!!

Even making and reattaching the sleeves wasn't too bad! Probably the worst part for me was embellishing it and finding the stockings.

As a bonus, I was even able to use a piece of the discarded sweater for a headband!

I made the roses on the dress from a shirt that no longer fit me. I was short on time so I ruffled up some of the material and used pins to pin each one to the sweater. I thought that the color might bleed onto the sweater so this way I can remove them prior to washing.

I may eventually switch up to a more subdued color rose and attach it permentaently, but for now I can take them off or change them out pretty simply.

The stockings cost 4 times the amount of the dress! Talk about splurging. (-;

Unforunately I couldn't find a stripe stocking in her size, and basically the flower ones were all that was left that would fit her. I figured since it had roses on the dress that it all kinda went together. Definitely not my first choice, but they suffice.

I did have to cut the neck of the dress down because of a small hole in the sweater that I didn't notice till I got it home. I was quite nervous that I would really mess that up, but all went well.

And when you only spend a dollar on a dress, you don't care if your daughter runs around the farm in it and gets it dirty....

or if her older brother rough houses with her...although it would be nice if she could wear the stockings again!

So if you are looking for a sewing project, definitely check out Ashley's blog because her tutorial is great...

I wouldn't have been able to take the refashion plunge without it!

Friday Fill In's

2009-11-13T08:00:00.001-05:00

1. The last band I saw live was my kids rocking rock band in my living room.
2. What I look forward to most on Thanksgiving is having my grandmom home with us for the day from the nursing home, I am really hoping that happens. (-:
3. My Christmas/holiday shopping is well underway, thanks to some great deals found on several of my favorite blogs!
4. Thoughts of fundraising for Collin's Robotics team fill my head.
5. I wish I could wear my pajamas all weekend long....soon enough soccer season will be over and maybe that can happen.
6. Bagpipes and men in skirts.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to hopefully sewing, tomorrow my plans include Collin's Ramp Riot Robotics Competition and Sunday, I want to catch Michael's soccer game and if that gets cancelled head to a college fair with Collin! Busy weekend, and I am tired already! But its a good thing! Hoping for big wins on both days!

The Crayon Roll - An Easy Gift Idea!

2009-11-12T12:13:00.009-05:00

Thanks to the incredible amount of inspiring blogs out there, I have been able to get some frugal ideas for Christmas like this crayon roll. The inspiration for this project came from the tutorial at The Idea Room....another blog that has monopolized all my time with so many awesome ideas!

I just finished my first Crayon Roll and I was very happy with the way it turned out.

I think this is a great gift for a toddler or a preschooler. It gives the kids a nice visual, organized way to keep their crayons rather than just dumping a box and I can keep it in my purse for when we are dining out or going to the doctors. I think I'll make one to take up to the nursing home with a coloring book so when we go visit my grandmom, my daughter will be occupied.

This was a quick and easy project to make and a great way to use up fabric scraps!

Alright, I must get back to work, I have a couple of blankets that I am making for two charities

that I hope to share with you by the weekend...

one has to be done by tomorow since we have a busy weekend.

Wish me luck on that! (-:

For the LOVE of Horses!

2009-11-10T10:23:00.012-05:00

My daughter LOVES horses!

It's really amazing because she has been in love with them for as long as I remember. So as she becomes more of a preschooler and less of a toddler, I have been wanting to redo her bedroom to be less of a nursery

and more of a little girls room so we decided to incorporate horses into her decor. Luckily I was able to get some clearance "horse" wallpaper border for $1 at Lowes awhile back, but only enough to do one wall,

therefore I have been brainstorming other ways to add to the horse decor.

Since money is non existent in our household these days, this redo is of the free and cheap kind thanks to one of my FAVORITE blogs, This and That! She basically made Picture Frame boards using MDF and scrapbook paper! Check out her blog for lots of inspiration!

Angie's tutorial for this project was featured at favecrafts, another site I adore!

So here is my finished version using Angie's tutorial...

I was able to buy a small sheet of 1/2 inch MDF for around 8 dollars. I then cut 8 12"x12" boards from this MDF sheet with my jigsaw. I only needed 3 boards for my daughter's bedroom since her room is particularly small.

I found scrapbook paper on sale at AC Moore that would coordinate with my daughter's bedroom and used an old horse calendar for the pictures that I scored at a yardsale for FREE!

Gotta love a freebie!

All you need to do is modpodge the scrapbook paper to the board....I haven't modpodged since grammar school, and the odor brought back A LOT of great memories! Then I framed out the horse picture with a coordinating piece of scrapbook paper and attached with modpodge to the board.

The first board I did, I modpodged over the pic thinking it would protect it better, but after that one I didn't care for the glare on the picture since I only had glossy modpodge so I just left it unprotected. I think it is high enough that my daughter won't mess with them...but that remains to be seen!

While modpodging, I pulled out the white letters that spelled her name from her closet and updated them by modpodging them with some more of the same scrapbook paper.

I am linking this post to Kimba's blog, A Soft Place to Land as part of her Tuesday DIY Day! Check out her blog for tons of inspiration! I know I sure will! http://asoftplace.net/

Also next week I will be posting another project in Ally's room, which has been a big hit with her! Stay tuned to find out! (-:

Praying for Stellan

2009-11-10T10:07:00.003-05:00

Many of you follow MckMama's blog as her son, Stellan fights SVT (Supraventricular Tachycardia which involves his heart). He is such an adorable little boy who has already been through so much!

They are currently in Boston at a top notch hospital where little Stellan is now recovering from surgery. While at the hospital, prior to surgery, this poor little boy flatlined, but he was brought back to life as his mother watched...I can only imagine how terrifying that was for her! His surgery seems to be generally sucessful with some unresolved glitches.

I know this family is in my thoughts and prayers as they face the challenges of a surgery for their little guy, and being away from their other children. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they continue to seek the best medical care for their son and continue their journey to save their son's life. What an amazing little boy!

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T11:19:00.005-04:00

Our little witch is ready for trick or treating!

She is at the perfect age to really enjoy this Halloween!

This year the boys are ditching us....Collin is working, and Michael didn't want to get dresseed up, but I have a costume on standby should he change his mind when his friends show up.

Our pumpkins are carved and ready to be lit!

Hope you have a VERY FUN Halloween this year!

I know we are going to have some serious fun, and I can't wait!

Trunk or Treat...and the "afterparty"

2009-10-30T22:30:00.004-04:00

Tonight we attended our first Trunk or Treat and we had so much fun! It was a spur of the moment decision, but I am so glad that we decided to go!

Ally in her witch's costume and my nephew Colt in his pirate costume..

My brother, Randy with his youngest son, James..

Colt with his cousin...

The kids had a blast...while we walked around with the younger kids, the older kids handed out candy to the younger ones, which worked out beautifully! We will definitely attend next year!

After trunk or treat, we headed out to create a little mischief...just some good old fashioned fun.My Aunt and Uncle expect us every year on mischief night...

it's a family tradition.

This year, my aunt tried to dupe us by sneak attacking us with a water gun! Fun times!

Then my uncle shot the kids with the hose... as you can tell below Michael got pretty wet, and then he spent most of the time kinking the hose so my uncle couldn't get him with it. What great memories of time well spent!

I hope everyone has a safe and Happy Halloween!

Thanks for the thoughts and prayers!

2009-10-30T15:21:00.004-04:00

I just wanted to thank everybody who has called and emailed me regarding my accident on Tuesday...what a stressfull week!

For those of you that didn't know, Ally and I were in an accident on a major highway Tuesday while on the way to Ally's doctors. It was quite scary, but thankfully it wasn't as bad as it could have been. Nonetheless, I was rather shook up and sore, but thankfully Ally was no worse for the wear! She was quite convinced that we could fix the durango with a little sticky tape, although it took a bit more than that!

The Durango is now fixed, and we are moving forward, but I just wanted to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers. I greatly appreciated them and we are both fine! (-:

P.S. As my cousin reminded me, "Never drive faster than your guardarian angel", and thankfully I was going slow that day! (-:

Boo to you!

2009-10-30T14:50:00.005-04:00

Today Ally and I decided to have some fun and "BOO" our neighbors. Typically this is often done around the neighborhood, and I really wish it had worked out for me to start this sooner in the month, but I consider myself lucky to get to do it at all.

Basically it consists of leaving candy/treats at your neighbors house with a poem attached, ringing the doorbell and running so your neighbor is unable to know who did it. Ally was so excited that it didn't exactly work out that way, but she was so happy that I let her do it her way.

Since I had to bake over 300 cookies the day after my accident, then Michael's class cupcakes for his Halloween party yesterday, I decided to forgo baked goods and just divide a bag of candy corn between our two closest neighbors. Smart move, and much quicker. (-:

I made paper cones out of Halloween scrapbook paper, tied a ribbon to hang it on the doorknob. You can find plenty of poems online to attach to it, but I made up my own little diddy. Corny, but effective. Most poems encourage to the recipient to do the same to another neighbor, but since I am doing this the night before Halloween, I just wanted to do a nice gesture.

How lucky are we?
We have the greatest neighbors, you see
So here is a little treat
To give you something good to eat.
We won’t tell who we are,
But we don’t live that far!
Happy Halloween!

On our first delivery, our neighbors weren't home, although their son arrived while we were outside decorating our house. Yes, we were JUST decorating our house for Halloween today...don't judge. Ally was so excited watching him find it on the door!

On our second delivery, our neighbors were home, and they were thrilled to recieve their package. Ally waited for them to answer rather than leave it and run. It was cute!

I just have to say that I definitely lucked out with my neighbors!!

. I love all of them! It's so nice to be part of a great community and they have been all so supportive and interested in our kids which makes us like family! (-:

WFMW - Masking Odors of the kid kind!

2009-10-14T08:15:00.006-04:00

I thought I'd join in on the "Works for Me Wednesday" where fellow bloggers share their tips. I love this Wednesday tradition and have picked up a ton of great ideas! So enough lurking, it was time for me to jump in! (-;

I babysit so my house is usually abound with "kid" smells...you know the ones, particularly dirty diapers. For the past seven years, I have pretty much babysat infants on a continuous loop. So here is a trick I use particularly when I know company is coming and I want to "freshen" up the air.

I take a coffee mug and fill it half way with water, and then add cinnnamon. Just heat in the microwave till it simmers and your house will smell wonderful. You can add different spices to your liking, I am just partial to cinnamon myself.

Of course on a cold winter day, I am known to simmer cinnamon sticks on the stove, but the above tip works great when someone calls to say they will be right over and time is of the essence!

So this tip works for me...feel free to share your tip over at We Are that Family.

FRIDAY (TGIF) FILL IN'S

2009-10-09T07:38:00.003-04:00

1. Sweet dreams are made of these, who am I to disagree? Now that song will be in my head the rest of the day...LOL
.2. Roses especially for me.
3. Silliness is abundant in this house.
4. Excited for this Halloween.
5. Outstanding or not, we all must try our best.
6. Free time is what I want right now!
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to celebrating my niece's 16th Birthday, tomorrow my plans include Duel on the Delaware and Sunday, I want to enjoy a Sunday off from soccer with my family,and then celebrate my grandmom's birthday! So happy it is a 3 day weekend! (-:

TGIF - Friday Fill In's

2009-10-02T10:02:00.002-04:00

1. I have a history of laughing uncontrollably when I probably shouldn't be.
2. Playing the guitar is something I wish I knew.
3. I'm eating (or recently ate)marshmellows.
4. We love riding our bikes on the road.
5. So that's it, that's just not right.
6. A little ice cream is better than nothing!
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to having dinner that my two Aunts and grandmom are making for us, seeing if I can make it to Collin's comedy show for fundraising, tomorrow my plans include yardsaling, checking out a resale, going to the Restore, and maybe the craft show at Dutch Neck, we'll see and Sunday, I want to visit my grandmom at the nursing home and spend time with my family!

HAPPY FRIDAY!

Thanks for the support!

2009-09-24T07:00:00.007-04:00

Yesterday my dear hubby had to have major elective surgery. This decision has been heavy on our hearts for some time, but we decided for his health, it would be much better in the long run for him to electively proceed rather than be forced into an emergency surgery.

I ask that you keep us in your thoughts and prayers at this very difficult time. Although his surgery was sucessful and his long term prognosis is good, it did not go exactly according to plan, and I think he will be disheartened when he finds this out.

As of right now, he is stable, but is in an extreme amount of pain. Fred has a high pain tolerance so to see him in this amount of pain is very hard. The hospital staff assure us the next couple days will be very difficult for him, but things should start to improve after that.

And please say a little prayer for our kids. I think that is the hardest part for Fred is worrying about how all this affects them, he put a lot of thought about that into his decision to proceed. They adore their dad, and we know they are worried. For now, we are keeping Fred's visitors to a minimal while he is experiencing such pain, but as soon as he is able to see the kids, we'll make a trip over to ease their worries and improve Fred's spirits.

Thank you to all our family and friends...

we couldn't go through this without your unending support, thoughts and prayers!

Special thanks to my sister in law Jen, who helped me out by getting Fred to an appointment the other day, kept me company during the long wait yesterday,

and shopped with me at Best Buy (LOL)

And to my cousin Shannon for keeping Ally overnight and occupied for the last couple days which allowed me to focus on Fred and his needs without concern over Ally. THANK YOU!

Also to my dad for giving Shannon a well deserved break from her babysitting duties! Thanks!

Thanks to my sister in law Jamie who imparted her extensive knowledge of things with me...we won't get into content of that converstation. LOL.

And one last thanks to my cousin Amy for her support of the emotional kind. (-:

Love ya all! (-:

Back to School )-:

2009-09-12T09:44:00.007-04:00

School started this week, and two out of three kids hit the road.

I was sad to see them go...for the most part we had a GREAT summer, and sending them back to school just reminds me that they are getting one year closer to adulthood.

To be honest, my stepson will be an official adult before

the end of the year when he celebrates his 18th birthday.

He is loving his new found freedoms this year because he gets to go to college in the afternoon. The first day was a bit of a debacle, but on the second day he proclaimed this freedom overwhelming with a grin on his face. He is loving it so far, hopefully he will continue to love it.

Michael started 7th grade this year and turned 13 years old. Unimaginable!

My mom always stops in on the first day of school to wish Michael a great day...

Allyson wishing her brother well on his first day back.

Summer seemed to flash by so quickly this year.

My house is always filled with kids, mine and others throughout the summer so things are always busy and loud.

It was so quiet and peaceful when Ally and I came back in,

we just aren't used to that...it feels empty.

Remembering 9/11 today and everyday....

2009-09-11T11:07:00.009-04:00

I still remember and, always will, where I was when I heard the news on

September 11th, 2001....

The day was always a special day to me because my first child was born on September 11th. Michael was turning 5 on that fateful day in 2001. I was trying to get out of work early so I could get things together for a family gathering to celebrate that evening.

And then a co-worker blurted those words that changed a day of celebration to a day of dread.

"Something just crashed into the World Trade Center, maybe a plane?"

Everybody started chatting nervously as we tried to find out more information. Websites were overburdened and down. Radio stations were unsure of exactly what was happening. Confusion was everywhere.

Another crash, people jumping to their deaths, towers falling. Chaos.

The pentagon being hit by a plane.

My co-worker's son just had gotten a job at the pentagon. Tears as she tried to find out if he was okay, but no word, just busy signals and more tears from a mother wondering if her son was dead or alive..something a mother should never have to wonder...

(He was fine we eventually found out. )

I was a state away from my son on his 5th birthday working while he was happily enjoying the first full week of kindergarten anticipating his birthday party set for that evening. Everybody was anixious to get home...some of us had to cross a major bridge to get back to loved ones and it occured to us that if this was indeed a terriorist attack, there were possibly targets in our area...

Unlikely, but never say never.

I was never so happy to be home as I was that day.

I picked up my son early from school and spent the afternoon with him.

He was blissfully unaware of the events.

We played in the backyard as mother and sons sometimes do and as we did,

I listened to the silence of the world amid the outburst of giggles of a 5 year old.

No planes...

we almost always heard planes when we were outside, but all had been grounded by then.

SILENCE.

An eerie sound on a devastating day.

We went on to quietly celebrate my son's 5th birthday keeping the

tragic reality of terrorism, only a state away,

from our happy go lucky little 5 year old.

It was such a guilty pleasure knowing so many were suffering...

wondering if their sons, daughters, spouses, parents were ever coming home while we enjoyed the company of our family.

I wished I could go to each of those suffering and

help in some small way bring peace to them.

Over time I have watched the stories. Pregnant women whose unborn children will never know their fathers. Mothers who have lost their children. Grandparents just never came home one day after going into work.

There loss is my loss, I feel them all.

I feel for them all.

I seek out their stories even now, seeing how they have coped. Seeing some flourish and some fail. These stories are heartbreaking, and they are never far from my thoughts.

NEVER.

Within months of the attacks, my friend JoAnn and I were able to go to New York City. We went to see Phantom of the Opera with my sister in law, Jen and her husband Harry...

but JoAnn and I had other plans as well.

We both felt compelled to visit Ground Zero to experience the devestation first hand. To KNOW exactly what the people were going through in the city...

to feel it.

And I can tell you it was one of the most moving experiences of my life.

To see first hand the destruction that others can bring

to us,

to our country

was

SURREAL.

It brought havoc and unrest to my soul knowing

that others could plot such crime against humanity right in our backyard.

Fences lined with posters of the missing along with prayers by well wishers, people crying overwhelmed by emotion, buildings destroyed, the smell of destruction in the air...

it was moving in ways that words will never express.

But amongst that darkness and devestation,

there were people with hope, love, compassion, support, prayers

it was an amazing to see and experience.

It was as if NYC had been enveloped in an huge hug from the world.

Well wishers had come from everywhere....

I mean everywhere

leaving notes of support, love, prayers, t-shirts blessing NYC...

And to watch the NYC firetrucks leave for the day after relentless search and recovery efforts, knowing they themselves had lost many members from their squadrons, but tirelessly worked to bring the lost home.

It was a moment that takes your breathe away knowing how hard

their mission must be to complete after so much loss.

I felt outwhelming pride to be a witness to heroism first hand on that day.

And as the sun set on a bitter cold rainy day in New York City,

I saw the greatest vision amongst the rubble and wreckage.

Behold the American Flag

...our flag, my flag, your flag

draped on a damaged building reminding us...

Freedom is not free...there is a cost...a great cost.

And that we can be shaken, but we are UNITED not matter what happens. We may be divided by religion, politics, etc. but when it counts, we rally together.

We are the people of the United States of America,

and

your loss is my loss.

Since 9/11/01, many things have changed in my life. I have lost my grandfather to cancer. Two of my grandparents have suffered debilitating strokes. I have had a daughter, my stepson drives now....

and today, September 11th it is still a day of celebration as my son turns from a child to a teenager on his 13th birthday...

but some things remain unchanged

for I will never ever forget the events of

September 11th, 2001.

Your loss was my loss. My loss is your loss.

We are united, and united we will stand.

That remains unchanged forever.

Southern Living...

2009-08-25T07:42:00.003-04:00

Thanks to a couple blogs this morning, I found out about a great deal on Southern Living Magazine. Amazon.com has a years subscription for only $5. Click here if you are interested. That's only 38 cents an issue!!!

TGIF - Friday Fill In's

2009-08-21T00:01:00.001-04:00

Sorry for my absence lately, but I'll be catching up in September when the kids get back in school! Things have been crazy hectic around here for the past couple months! I can't believe that summer is almost over already and we are already back into fall soccer! Let the good times roll!

1. I remember my wedding/honeymoon like it was yesterday.
2. Dear Michael I want you to know that I am proud of who you are ALWAYS!.
3. Is that my bowl of ice cream!!???
4. I'm trying to resist the temptation of camping and it is really hard!
5. I'm saving a smile just for you! (-:
6. If I made a birthday lista new camera would definitely be on it!!!
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to spending the night down the shore with the "girls", no kids, just TONS of laughter and fun, tomorrow my plans include heading home to see my kids and hubby and Sunday, I want to finish up making some plans for the next adventure!!

FRIDAY (TGIF) FILL IN'S

2009-08-07T00:01:00.003-04:00

1. Camping is my favorite summertime activity.
2. My favorite John Hughes movies are Pretty in Pink and Breakfast Club, but I like most of his movies so this was a hard choice.
3. Silk is something I love to touch.
4. The full moon makes for a magical night - I LOVE when there is a full moon.
5. I am SOOOO EXHAUSTED right now.
6. When daylight fades is the best time to walk the beach hunting for ghost crabs.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to giving my grandmom a great big kiss cause I haven't seen her ALL week, visiting my hubby at the hospital for the rest of the day, tomorrow my plans include another hospital visit to the hubby, then I am probably going to the rodeo with the kids barring any unforeseen problems and Sunday, I want to bring my hubby home, but I don't know if that is going to be happening anytime soon, let's hope!

FRIDAY (TGIF) FILL IN'S

2009-07-31T08:31:00.003-04:00

1. It's time for the weekend.....YAY!
2. Cold Stone Creamery; it's not a bad place for ice cream.
3. I must be happy cause life's too short not to be!
4. The laughter of my children is the best thing I have ever known.
5. My homemade ice cream is simply decadent. (Shannon that one is for you!)
6. The last time I laughed really loudly was while I was visiting my grandma's in the hospital (they are both in there two doors apart)...and at the "after" party as the plan was unfolding
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to having the day off while running errands, finishing school shopping, getting the stuff I need for the fair bake sale, and possibly visiting my grandma's at the hospital, tomorrow my plans include yardsaling and emergency family meeting,(LOL Jamie) and Sunday, I want to spend the day with the family and Sam comes home...YAY!

National Ice Cream DAY...and...MY BIRTHDAY!

2009-07-19T19:27:00.007-04:00

How awesome is it that not only is there a National Ice Cream Month, but ALSO a National Ice Cream DAY!!! And even better is that National Ice Cream day is the 3rd Sunday of the month of July (today) which also happens to be my 35th birthday!

So in honor of National Ice Cream Day and also my birthday, I am linking to Alphmom's recipe for "Magic Shell"...ever have that as a kid????

I can remember dumping that on my ice cream the few times that my mom bought it. The boys love it, especially the Reese's kind...I imagine you can add some peanut butter and maybe some ground up Reese's to make this even better.

It's a good life! (-:

Sssshhhhh...don't tell the kids! (-:

2009-07-16T10:15:00.009-04:00

Dear Kim...

Thanks for bringing me ....ummmm...I mean...

the kids ice cream and ice cream cones for my their snack today.

You don't know how much we will enjoy it this afternoon after lunch

~~...or how much I enjoyed it when I snuck some for breakfast this morning right after you left.~~

Since it is National Ice Cream Month, I appreciate you donating

ice cream to our month long celebration.

~~or just to me any day of the week....~~

Thanks again Kim!!! And I hope I didn't make you too late for work! You know that majority of my conversations are with little people under the age of 10 so adult conversation is a luxury around here.

~~And don't worry there is plenty of ice cream left for the little people!~~

Thinking outside the box....

2009-07-14T15:01:00.003-04:00

Thanks to bloggers like Sarah at Thrifty Decor Chick, I now spend every ~~single~~ free moment working on cool projects and this one is no exception.

I wanted a couple new throw pillows to go along with my denim throw I finished up last week so last night while I was at Big Lots, I remembered this post. They had double sided cloth place mats for $1. I had picked up a bag of stuffing from a yard sale on Saturday for 50 cents. So this whole pillow cost me a whooping $1.50 and about 10 minutes of time. Seriously. It is super easy.

You just ripped out the seam just enough to stuff the pillow, make sure you get it nice and plump. Then you just hand sew it back together. Super simple!

Of course it would look awesome embellished in some kind of way, but for now I am pretty happy about how it looks, how little it cost and definately happy it only took a few minutes!

Friday Fill In - TGIF

2009-07-10T08:52:00.004-04:00

1. The last thing I ate was a sub and corn fritters.

2. Fabric is something I recently bought.

3. When it rains, it is the best time to play outside!

4. Ally was the first person I talked to today.

5. Hugs are great, kisses are even better!

6. Ice cream and Pepsi provide extra comfort.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to maybe the drive-in/still undecided, tomorrow my plans include yardsaling/restore with Meeper, then hanging with the family the rest of the day and Sunday, I want to see what happens!

A year in the making....

2009-07-09T14:59:00.007-04:00

For the past year, I have been collecting the old jeans of my kids and hubby to make a denim qulit. I decided to use them to make my first rag quilt. I need a throw quilt for my camper and this was a cheap and easy way to get one!

I took all those old jeans and also a flat flannel sheet for the backing and used a pattern from a cereal box to cut them all into 7.25 x 7.25 squares intending to use the .25 as the seam allowance.

Then I took a denium square and a flannel square (wrong sides facing together) and sewed them to another set of denium/flannel squares so that the raw seam was facing forward. This seam will fray giving the quilt a "rag" look. I didn't line the quilt as denium and flannel are pretty heavy to begin with, and I think it will suit my purpose with no other liner.

This will make the back of the quilt look like this...

While the front of the quilt will have fraying from the seam allowance facing forward.

After you get it all sewed together, you sew a seam around the perimeter of the quilt leaving a 1/4 seam allowance so it will also fray.

Next you go around, and make a small clip on all your seam allowances to help with the fraying process. This takes FOREVER, but it is well worth it.

Wash and dry to help it fray.

Today I am linking up to Kimba's DIY Thursday so check it out for over a hundred other bloggers doing some AWESOME DIY projects!

Lots of inspiration over there that should keep you occupied for days! (-:

Don't take your life for granted....

2009-06-25T21:39:00.004-04:00

On Monday, we had the pleasure of taking my grandmom

to her last radiation treatment for breast cancer.

I think her face says it all!

We went to IHop afterwards to celebrate...

she LOVES pancakes, and has really wanted to go there for some time!

The end of radiation treatments and pancakes with strawberries and cream cheese on them....

What a great day! (-:

Family Pictures at the Beach...

2009-06-25T20:47:00.008-04:00

When we went to Assateague, Maryland camping a few weeks ago, I decided that I wanted to get some family portraits on the beach. So here are some of my favorites......

How great it was that the horses were once again on the beach so I could take Ally's picture with them? She has a huge love of horses, and I wanted these pictures particularly because these are her 3rd birthday pictures.

It's hard to believe Collin is 17 and only 6 months shy of his 18th birthday. I will always treasure this picture because I know it is only a matter of time before he won't be able to go with us on summer adventures....and it is great to get a picture of all three of the kids together....not usually such an easy task! Ally couldn't ask for two better big brothers....

Here's my little Michael all grown up...he'll be 13 in a couple of months...he certainly isn't so little anymore! Still the jokester, he'll never be to old for a hug from mom! Check out Fred's face...LOL. He was only slightly perturbed that we were supposed to be pulling out of our campsite at this very moment because it was check out time!

If only I had remembered to take my sunglasses off in our family picture!!! Now we'll have to go back so we can get a better shot! (-:

I am surely blessed to have such a great family!!

We all have our challenges, but they only make us stronger!

Since I wanted Ally's pictures done for her 3rd birthday at the beach, I thought it would be extra special to make her a sundress. I was really happy with the way it turned out...I lined it with eyelet to make it heavier and let some of the eyelet hang below the hemline.

I changed all these pictures to Vintage using Pioneer Woman's actions in Photoshop CS3! If you are lucky enough to have photoshop, check it out!

FRIDAY (TGIF) FILL IN'S

2009-06-12T06:22:00.000-04:00

Another week bites the dust. (-:

1. I grew up thinking I would have lots of kids, and in a way I do. (-:
2. April Rose is a fake was the last website I was at before coming here. (It was allegedly a fake blog that has raised a lot of concerns in blogland)
3. Why don't you just be happy, life is waayyyy too short!!!!!
4. Hanging with the kids helps me relax. (MOST of the time...LOL)
5. Thanks for the the challenges because they make me stronger .
6. ???? very off-putting. (not sure what that all means..LOL)
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to speaking at graduation to present savings bonds in honor of my grandfather on behalf of all 12 of his grandchildren (-: , tomorrow my plans include spending time with my family and Sunday, I want to RELAX!

The 1 year old Birthday of Curious James!

2009-06-11T13:40:00.013-04:00

My littliest nephew, James, turned 1 last week and my sister in law, Jamie, had the cutest party for him all in the theme of Curious ~~George~~ James.

She based the theme around this book of Curious George...

Jamie made this GREAT pinata all by herself, isn't it the cutest?

And the picture of James in the basket of the hot air balloon really added the finishing touch! LOVE IT!

As a decoration, she used a projector and traced out this image customizing it for James.

For the cake, she made this AWESOME monkey cake! It tasted as great as it looks..she even used cookies for ears!

How ADORABLE! I was really impressed!

And so was the birthday boy...

Assateague, Maryland Camping Trip, May 2009

2009-06-11T12:05:00.002-04:00

The last weekend in May we headed to the beautiful island of Assateague, Maryland, where wild horses roam free, and ghost crabs rule the night. We LOVE it there....campsites are right near the beach, and it is so beautiful. We aren't even beach people, but we love the beach in the mornings and evenings when it is cool and peaceful and there is nobody else to share it with...it is like our own little personal paradise!Okay, well maybe we do have to share our paradise a little, but we don't mind...

Fred found a sand flea, and of course Ally had to hold it...YUCK!

That's Michael dancing in the ocean...yup, that boy always keeps us entertained!

Do you know how many pics I had to take to get Collin smiling? I lost count...LOL.

He hates his picture taken!

This weekend was Ally's 3rd birthday,

and since she is so into horses, it was the perfect place to take her!

Check out Miss Hollywood with her new stroller taking a morning stroll...

Ummm. Sorry. Ally doesn't do 10 MPH. EVER.

Fred, Ally and I ventured out to a little group of islands to see the horses...

especially the "baby" which was Ally's favorite!

This year, I am trying to actually be in the pictures whether I like it or not...

Of course when I read there was a place where I could get a "Bucket" of ice cream,

you know I was all over it!!!

Michael decided he had to have one too...which is particularly ironic because for the first 10 years of his life, he only ordered chips whenever we went out for ice cream!

Only one of the two of us finished completely.....

Did you ever have any doubts knowing my passion for ice cream??

The birthday girl went for a smaller size, and she didn't finish hers either.

We also were able to hit a Nature Center that none of us have ever visited before.

And then of course, we had to play on the playground next to the Nature Center...

I am not sure who loves it more, the 3 year old or the 12 year old....

The horses stopped by our campsite to say goodbye and to wish Ally a happy birthday before we left on Sunday....wasn't that nice of them???

Ally's 3rd Birthday Party

2009-06-05T22:05:00.000-04:00

Since we took Ally camping for her 3rd birthday, we just held a small little party for her back at the house with family.

I made her a princess cake a couple hours before the party was to start....I used marshmallow fondant for the dress. I haven't worked with fondant too much, and I didn't realize that you are suppose to let it "rest" for a few hours before using. Live and learn!

As you can tell from my hubby's shirt, it was down pouring outside so he got all wet on one of his excursions outside. It seems to downpour every year when I have her party...

Who knew that for 7 years there has been a perfectly good hook on my porch for pinatas??

In the past, we have made some of the brave men hold the rope and hope they don't get a beat down while the kids attack the pinata with a bat....thanks Harry and Randy! You guys were the best pinata holders EVER. But now you can retire since we had a hook the WHOLE time! I don't think either of you wanted anymore kids anyways....

So that is the shortened version of the party just so I have a record of it for my little girl!

FRIDAY (TGIF) FILL IN'S

2009-06-05T00:01:00.000-04:00

1. We need to remodel our home.
2. My favorite thing for dinner lately has been chicken alfredo.
3. Kira bark! bark! bark!
4. A nice long walk to eagle island
5. We want some good news.
6. When all is said and done, I might just know what I am doing, but probably not!
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to RELAXING , tomorrow my plans include my hubby and I are taking a ride to Delaware, hopefully meeting up with my cousin Amy and then James 1st bday party and Sunday, I want to be living on the edge and be totally spontaneous !

Pinecone Research Surveys

2009-06-04T14:39:00.003-04:00

Anybody looking for a little extra cash will be excited to know that Pinecone Research is now accepting applications. They are very hard to get into as they don't have open enrollment often...but Fred used to do their surveys a number of years ago, and did make a modest little amount of money. Just thought I'd give everybody heads up!!! I do believe you need to have a paypal account to get paid, but I am not sure about that.

For more information, check out http://www.centsablemomma.com/2009/06/pinecone-research-signup.html

You definately won't get rich this way, but it is nice to have a little extra here and there.

3 years ago today....

2009-06-01T20:15:00.023-04:00

Three years ago, our lives completely changed....

We learned how different raising a little girl was than raising a little boy.....

and just how similiar raising a little girl can be to raising a little boy....

We learned patience....

We learned to appreciate our blessings...all three of them!

We learned all about frilly dresses and "beautiful" shoes.....

We learned that girls are daredevils too!

We learned that little girls love to play in the sand...

And that a little sister can melt her big brother's heart...

We learned that boys aren't the only ones that wish they were in the wild west....

And we learned that shoes can make the outfit...

We learned that sitting around spending time together can be most treasured moments....

We learned that big brothers are never that tough when their little sister has them wrapped around their finger....
We learned that a certain little girl melts her daddy's heart whenever he sees her, and that daddy's arms do make everything all better.

We learned that we never knew what we were missing until you came into our lives....

And we are so blessed to now know.....

Happy 3rd birthday, babygirl!!!!

We love you!!

Shirring Insanity...

2009-06-01T11:37:00.008-04:00

My adventure in sewing hit a MAJOR road block and it was very frustrating! I was trying to shirr a shirt that I was making for Allyson and it just wouldn't shirr...it just sewed a straight stich and wouldn't gather. I spent two days trying to figure out the problem, and I did figure it out thanks to some persistance.

Apparently the shirring elastic wasn't catching in the bobbin right. I really thought it had to do with the tightness of winding the bobbin, but that wasn't the problem. The bobbin wasn't threading automatically the way it was suppose to, but with a little guidance when it intially threads, it works fine. Which explained why it worked randomly different times.

Here is the shirt I made out of the same material as the previous dress I made.

Ally's shirt ended up being shorter than I care for, but that's okay, I can add lace or a ruffle to it at some point. I am also not a fan of tie straps...and neither is my daughter. She loves to undo them and take the whole thing off so I think I'll stick to either regular straps or a strap behind her neck where she can't get to it as easy.

My major project last week was to finish a dress to have Allyson's pictures taken at the beach for her 3rd birthday. I decided on a blue check material with embroidered flowers on it, and I thought I would line it with eyelet. Because I lined it, it didn't shirr nearly as well as the last dress. I was going to take it in so it would fit her better, but I just kept shirring to finally get it to fit.

I love this dress. Lining it gave it a weight to it that I love, and it is just so girly. I would definately cut the dress out a little smaller if I were to line one again to ensure it fits since it doesn't shirr as well, but in the end, I got it to fit well enough.

I am still learning something with everything I make so that is exciting for me, and the girls I babysit are really hoping their American girl dolls are going to be in shirred dresses soon. (-:

Memorial Day - Spending the weekend with a few billion of our closest ENEMIES

2009-05-27T10:44:00.012-04:00

This Memorial Day weekend, we went to a bonfire at Meeper's house with my brother's family, and my family. That night set the tone for the whole weekend. A few billion of our closest enemies decided to visit....gnats.

They were happy for the buffet that they were provided...plenty of adults and kids to feast upon.

Luckily Meeper and her husband, Mr. Meeper, have a huge screen tent that provided a lovely retreat. As soon as dark came, all insects pretty much were history except for an occasional mosquito..much more tolerable. We had a GREAT time though, it is always fun to get together and watch the kids play.

For something different, I made homemade vanilla ice cream. Yummy!

The next evening, my stepson had some of his high school friends over for a bonfire. At our house, we realized that there were SWARMS of strawberry flies ready to attack anybody that ventured outside. Luckily Fred ran to Walmart and was able to buy a screen house to provide the kids with some refuge.

All I can say is THANK GOD for the screen house...it really saved the night!

Monday, Fred and I pulled together a family picnic with both his side and my side of the family.
I caught Michael and Allyson watching the marathon of Land of the Lost on sci fi right before the picnic. I used to LOVE that show!

Check out the bugs behind my Uncles head IN the screen tent!

So that is a recap of a very busy weekend with A LOT of pesky strawberry flies, gnats and mosquitos! But we did have a lot of fun, and it was GREAT to see everybody!

Shirr Madness!

2009-05-20T14:56:00.005-04:00

For the last couple weeks, I have been researching and obsessing on how to make my daughter some sundresses for the summer. She is pretty much potty trained, and sundresses seem the way to go....

Today was the day. Allyson was really excited that I was going to make her a dress that she could dance in (?). Not sure where that came from...but anyway, below is the finished product so put your dancing shoes on Allyson!!!

The top of the dress is shirred. Some people call it smocked-I am not sure what the difference is between the two. I found two really great tutorials that explain how to do this, and it is really very simple. The trick is to use elastic thread in your bobbin. If you are at all interested, check out these two blogs for amazing tutorials!

http://houseonhillroad.typepad.com/photos/sunny_day/index.html

http://kitschycoo.blogspot.com/2009/04/shirred-sundress-tutorial.html

I have to say that the hardest part of the whole project was putting the straps on. I decided to wait until the end to put them on because I was so excited to shirr. But in retrospect, I will put them on during the shirring process so that the stitches will be hidden within the shirring stitches.

This was a very easy project...seriously it was! Shirring is really very simple, and if I say that as an inexperienced sewer, then you know it is true. This is definately a great beginner sewing project, and a lot of people make a shorter version as a shirt so I might be making some of those!

A blog I love....

2009-05-18T07:00:00.002-04:00

I have to tell you about a blog that I have fallen in love with over the past year....many of you that blog know all about it, but I wanted to share it with my non-blogging lurking friends and family because I really enjoy it and you guys might too.

http://thepioneerwoman.com/confessions/

Pioneer woman is the whole package...she lives on a farm with her marlboro man, takes amazing pictures and is pretty famous in the blogging world. She has everything from photography tutorials to recipes on there. Her ranch is beautiful and her pictures are breathtaking.

So if you are bored one day, head on over there for a visit and check it out...I think that you will be glad that you did. I sure know I am!

Prom! (-:

2009-05-17T12:47:00.024-04:00

Collin and his girlfriend Sam headed to Collin's Junior prom this last Friday. So much fun!

We were all really excited about it.

But first we had to do something with his hair.....hmmm.

Meeper showed up just in time to work her magic.

Collin, come back!!!

That's better!

Hi Billy Ray Cyrus...it's been awhile...

This is where Meeper says, "Who's Billy Ray???"

A little hairspray...and a little more....

Shake it to the left, to the left again....

Just not to the right...that could be bad.

And now perfection! Or not so much...hmm.

Mother's Day Weekend recap (only a week late)

2009-05-17T12:03:00.012-04:00

For Mother's day, we spent Saturday going out to dinner with my hubby's family...we went to a local restaurant called the Bait Box. It was Fred's grandparents, parents, my sister in law Jen and my niece Cory, along with us - Fred, me, Michael and Ally. Collin had a robotics competition so he couldn't make it. )-:

Before dinner was even served, the electric went out for a pretty long time...which meant so did the air conditioning and the ability to get soda from the soda machine. It was so dark in the bathroom, Cory (my adorable niece) accidently dunked Allyson in when she took her to the potty. EWWW! Or maybe it was retalilation for the time I ripped her jeans off because they had holes in them....just not sure about that.

After dinner, we all took a joy ride in the spaceship....doesn't everybody?

On Mother's Day, Fred took us out to a local pizza parlor for a little dinner. And for Mother's Day, they were giving the mom's pictures of their families so here is ours....

Exciting stuff, huh? Don't we all looked thrilled...after that the fire alarm (it was definately LOUD) started going off in the whole shopping plaza and we quickly made our exit. We couldn't believe our luck with the electric going out at dinner the day before, and then the fire alarm incident on Mothers Day. I think somebody is trying to tell me to stop eating! (-:

Mother's Day night, we headed over to my grandmom's to celebrate all the mothers....here's my grandma hanging around...

Here is the cookie bouquet that I made for her and one for my mom.

Here are the younger cousins enjoying their time together under the watchful eye of Meeper's husband.

Allyson having fun jumping off the picnic table into her daddy's arms. (-:

Here is Colt and Ally running back after obtaining some chocolate covered pretzels from their grandmom (my mom)...run fast so Grandpop (my dad) doesn't get those pretzels!

Here's Colt showing Allyson how to build a campfire...He is his father's son!

And here is Kaylin (Meeper's daughter) quietly eating a stash of candy while everybody is engaged in conversation in the other room.

Don't you just love onry kids????

I know I do! (-:

YAY, I DID IT!!! (-:

2009-05-12T08:56:00.006-04:00

I have been on a sewing kick this week, and I have always wanted to try to make Allyson a t-shirt dress. I have been trying to figure out how to do it, and thanks to google, I found a lot of ideas.

I started with a cheap tank top from Walmart....

And raided my fabric stash ...

So without further adieu, here is the end project...

I made some mistakes so it is truly one of a kind....but I have learned from them. The next one I will make a little longer, and line the skirt part. But all in all, it definately is something she can play in during the summer. So now I am off to Walmart with my grandmom, and I am sure I will end up with another shirt to see if I can do better. (-:

Hair Scrungie 101

2009-05-11T10:44:00.005-04:00

I have long hair and am constantly searching for my ever decreasing supply of hair scrunchies. As a teenager, I used to make them with my grandmom from time to time so after seeing a teen selling them at a yardsale this weekend, I figured I would put my sewing skills to good use.

A couple cast off t-shirts and 97 cent elastic from Walmart

Since we no longer have fabric department at our ~~beloved~~ local Walmart, I decided to upcycle. I used a few of my son's t-shirts that he no longer fits into...most had stains on the front so I just used the back. I got between 3-4 scrungies per shirt back.

I cut the shirt into strips of 20 inches long and 4-5 inches wide. I didn't worry about perfection so my lines were a little off. I folded them in half longways, and sewed the edges together lengthwise. Then I turned the material so it was right side in, some people use a pencil to help with this.

I took between 5-6 inches of elastic and weaved it through the inside, you can do whatever length you want depending on the thickness of your hair and how much expansion you will need. I tied the elastic in a knot after weaving it through. Then you finish sew the two ends together, and they should look something like this.

Pretty easy and very forgiving of mistakes. A perfect project to do with first time sewers. I will surely be doing this during the summer with my gang of older babysitting kids.

Happy Mothers Day!!!

2009-05-10T20:15:00.007-04:00

Happy Mother's Day to all the Mothers out there!!! (-:

So here was my project for the day....

a sugar cookie bouquet for my wonderful mom, and one of my grandmoms.

I didn't have much time to work on the presentation for the cookie bouquet. I had wanted to attach a nice homemade card and wrap the flower pot with paper, but time was limited so I basically threw the cookies on a stick in a flower pot with floral foam and added some tissue paper.

I have been admiring the handiwork over at Bake at 350 for awhile now, and finally worked up the guts to try to create a decorated cookie. Bake at 350 is AWESOME...she has so many great tips for decorating cookies, and her cookie decorating is AMAZING. What an inspiration!

I made a sugar cookie recipe, cut out the shapes with cookie cutters, and then put skewers in the end of each cookie. After baking them and allowing them to cool, I took royal icing and piped an outline around the cookie. I allowed that piping to harden, then I thinned out the icing to basically "flood" the cookie with icing. I am sure I didn't add enough water to "flood" it correctly, but I used a toothpick to spread it around so it was fine.

Also, I noticed that the skewers seemed "loose" so I carefully took them out of the cookies, and used royal icing to "glue" them into the cookie. Once the icing hardened, they were very secure and we had no problems with them remaining on the stick.

Now that I have half a clue of what I am doing, I think next time will be easier and I can work on the presentation better. Definitely a work in progress....

A Pepsi and Ice Cream Run....

2009-04-27T21:48:00.003-04:00

My husband often tells me that I just want to use him as my personal chauffeur...but he is wrong, I will use anyone to drive me around, not just him! (-:

My 17 year old, newly driving neighbor, Seth, was talking to me on the computer when he mentioned that he had just came back from the custard stand. I immediately started in on him as to why he didn't bring me anything back.

After bantering with him for a few minutes, I convinced him to take me to the custard stand so I could have some ice cream. He was bored anyway so this gave him something to do, and this way I could make sure his driving skills were up to par. I mean ice cream is ICE CREAM...and Seth is a budding photographer so we had a lot to talk about.

Here he comes....I really didn't think he would. (-:

Seth's mother should be proud! I tried to distract Seth while driving by taking a 100 pictures of him, and he was VERY focused. Way to go Seth! (-:

And not only did he take me for ice cream, but he also ran me to the convenience store for another necessity. PEPSI.

IT DOESN'T GET MUCH BETTER THAN PEPSI AND ICE CREAM!

Seth was an excellent driver, and we had a great time catching up.

Seth, I'll let you take me to the custard stand anytime.

Easter Sunday

2009-04-27T20:57:00.017-04:00

Bear with me while I try to update my blog with some back stories. I enjoy blogging life events because my eventual goal is to have this blog printed into a book for the kids documenting their lives....

Easter Sunday, we went to my Aunt Donna and Uncle Bruce's house for Easter with my dad's side of the family, so here are some photos from our day.

This year, the Easter Bunny went to his girlfriend's house so he didn't make an appearance as he had in the previous years. That didn't stop the kids from asking a zillion times if he was coming....

Here is the Easter Bunny during his appearance from last year....

Here's Meeper and I giving him some lovin'....

which is probably why he wouldn't come back this year....(-:

Anyway, we did the Easter Egg hunt without the Easter Bunny, and the kids made out just fine. Plenty of candy for the ~~parents~~ kids.

Michael looking so grown up in his suit...I can't believe he is going to be 13 this year!

But he still acts like a child most of the time. (-:

Here is my brother holding my nephew, Baby James. Obviously James wasn't too interested in his first Easter.

Here is my grandmom all dressed up in Ally's finery. A nice hat and her best pocketbook.

Then for laughs, we got my cousin Justin to get into his Easter best.

This year was a hard Easter for us being it was the first Easter without my grandfather. We all managed to get through it, and have a good time, but he was definately missed terribly. As the afternoon began to wind down, my dad, mom, my grandmom and I went to my grandfather's grave to plant a flower.

Here's my grandparents on Easter 2008.

But we know my grandfather was definately with us in spirit, and he left us with lots and lots of great Easter memories.

As Michael just told me tonight, "his great grandfather was one smart guy".

I couldn't agree more. (-;