Joy Beadworks

Fantastic Fall Pumpkins With a Chalky Twist

2011-10-17T14:30:00.001-04:00

These pumpkins are so much fun for the whole family!

Start with a faux pumpkin from the craft store. Tape off the stem if you like the color, then apply chalkboard spray paint in fine layers. You may need to apply 3 or 4 fine layers of paint in order to avoid runs and drips.

Once you've painted your pumpkin, paint on leaves and curly vines with acrylic paint.

Then write "Happy Fall", or "Happy Halloween", or "Welcome", or how about: "Happy Birthday"!

Dessert Cups

2011-09-19T20:42:00.001-04:00

I had a big family gathering a few weeks ago. My (youngest) brother brought his girlfriend to meet the family. It was sort of a big deal, but I didn't want it to be TOO much of a big deal. I knew she was nervous to meet us all ( I served dinner for 28).

I thought a fun dinner to lighten the mood would be better than a sit-down formal meal. I decided on a Make-Your-Own Taco night. It worked out really well. I had big bowls full of condiments and sides, I made fresh corn, and used tomatoes from my Mom's garden. We had planned several games to keep everyone engaged and talking.

For dessert, I thought we may as well expand on the Make-Your-Own theme, and have a sundae bar. We had hot fudge, caramel, sprinkles, candy, whipped cream, cherries, and all sorts of toppings. I made these fun dessert cups to scoop the ice cream into.

I took regular flour tortillias and used a cookie cutter to make smaller circles. I slightly buttered both sides of the circle and then sprinkled on sugar and cinnamon.

Then I pushed the circles into a muffin pan and baked them at 350 for 8 minutes. They were perfectly crispy and just the perfect compliment to all of the dessert toppings. The kids thought they were amazing.

An Observation at Mammoth Cave

2011-09-13T14:47:00.001-04:00

Over the summer, we visited Mammoth Cave, in Kentucky.

Mammoth Cave, as it's name suggests is giant. It is with world's largest cave system by far, and they are still discovering other branches and making new maps to record recent discoveries.

An interesting thing about the place is that it has been open for tours since the 1840's. Hard to imagine. Wealthy North Easterners traveled by stage coach for months to visit the place. There was a small retreat type hotel, but the draw was the cave.

The property above ground at the time was owned privately, and the property owners would have their slaves give tours. Some of the slaves became known for their excellent tours and knowledge of the cave and it's many underground passageways.Some of these slaves earned enough money in tips to buy their freedom.

Throughout the older part of the cave, there is "graffiti" left by these early explorers. The slaves hoped to earn tips by allowing their guests to write on the walls and ceilings of the cave with candle smoke ( I think candles were made with fat at the time, so they were a bit smokier than ours today).

What struck me most was the immaculate penmanship. Beautifully formed letters in different fonts even! The skill of handwriting is truly lost. I can tell you that my kids (all of them) can type better and faster than they can write. This saddens me somehow. It makes the writing from the 1800's look like art.

Here's the crew outside, peeling off their jackets. It was 90 degrees that day, and it's always 60 something in the cave.

The Best Fresh Salsa

2011-09-12T05:35:00.002-04:00

I know your gardens are all busting with fresh tomatoes and herbs. Here's something fresh to do with your garden surplus.

Here's what you'll need:
4 limes, 2 tomatoes, and onion, a pepper, a dash of salt, cilantro (not pictured) and the "special sauce" Lizano salsa.

While we were away this summer in Costa Rica, Renzo, a chef, showed us how to make this excellent salsa.

My kids loved Renzo. That's a story for another day.

Here's what you'll need to do:

Chop all of the ingedients finely, add about 2 tablespoons of Lizano Sauce (found in the Mexican food section of the grocery) and stir. Serve with thick tortilla chips. The result is an excellent salsa that you and your family will crave!

Well, They are Gone

2011-09-07T09:51:00.001-04:00

My kids are off to school today.
I'm feeling a bit lost as I do every year. More sad for myself than for them...they are off with their friends on new adventures. I'm left with what I forgot to do, (pack snacks for my youngest two), what I wanted to do (have an unhurried morning) and lots of chores and organization that require more effort than I'm capable of right now.

It doesn't help that I think I'm coming down with a head cold. I had a cup of coffee, so I can't go back to bed. I feel like watching TLC all day, but that's not very productive, is it?

I've got lots of exciting projects and catching up to do here. Can't wait to share all that has been going on. I hope you'll understand why I took the summer off once I get into the move, the renovation of my 100 year old house, our amazing trip, and so much more!

I'm seeing...DOTS....

2011-05-22T09:28:00.002-04:00

My Kids just love the mystery and suspense of these Lego minifigures. These little bags are sold for less than $3, and contain a mystery Lego minifigure. Each series contain a mix of great characters. The only problem is that your son can get the figure skater with the pretty outfit including a blue skirt 3 times in a row. That brings some frustration and tears, I happen to know first hand.

Alas, but there is a way around repeatedly buying the same figure, and possibly choosing the one you'd really like. It is no less frustrating, and it may bring tears, but they will be your tears, not your 6 year old's! Lego apparently marks the packages with a dot system that must be an internal way for them to know whats what.

These very hard to see dots are at the back of the package, on the bottom seal. Arm yourself with the following dot codes, and you'll have a better chance at getting the hockey player, or whatever it is that your little one just can't live without!

I Get Some Strange Looks in Produce

2011-05-16T22:23:00.000-04:00

It occurred to me that not everyone smells their cantaloupe before they purchase it. I can't help it! My Mom taught me most of these tips for buying the best of fresh produce:

Cantaloupe: Smell it. It should smell like cantaloupe. It should also be slightly soft at the stem area. If it's green, you can leave it sit on the counter to ripen.

Watermelon: Knock on it. If it sounds hollow, then, it's a good one. The sweetest melons are cracked inside, and are ripe. When you are knocking, if it sounds solid, move on.

Green Grapes: Look for grapes that have a slightly yellow cast, particularly opposite the stem area. They are the sweetest. The really dark green ones are sour.

Pineapple: This fruit should be yellow near the bottom. I've also heard that you should be able to pull a leaf from a fruit that is ripe.

Now I'm sure there are many more tips that I don't know about!

What did your Mom tell you??

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T09:27:00.000-04:00

I hope you all get to spend some time today enjoying all of the reasons why you are a Mother. I wish you unexpected hugs and sloppy peanut butter and jelly kisses!

Another Use For Coffee

2011-05-03T07:01:00.001-04:00

I needed a fresh centerpiece for my kitchen table. I've always loved ivy, and this verigated stuff I found at Lowes was so sweet. I wasn't sure what I was going to do with it, but I bought 3 anyway. When I got home, an idea came together.

I fetched 3 pots from under the kitchen sink, planted the ivy, hmm, still not right. I found a tray and lined the pots up on the tray. Problem: the tray is white, and the pots are cream. They clash a bit. ENTER: Coffee! I dumped whole coffee beans on the tray surrounding the pots. It's perfect. The extra layer of texture and deep chocolate color are just what this little arrangement needed. Plus, it smells good. Bonus.

Remember My Belt?

2011-04-26T07:49:00.001-04:00

I wore my Boiled Wool Flower belt the other day, and I was reminded of how much I like it.
It's perfect with jeans and a t-shirt (my Mom uniform).

It deserves a re-visit with spring fast approaching. This belt looks great with a breezy skirt too!
I'm linking up to my soul sister Jen's Linky party!

Horses in Pittsburgh

2011-04-11T19:53:00.000-04:00

I was at a bakery in Lawrenceville recently. I'm a sucker for a bakery. I'll plan a day around a visit.

So, the kids and I stopped at Dozen on a saturday morning, and on the way back to the car, I looked up and noticed the graceful horse that was above a beautiful arched doorway. Upon further inspection, there was a date of 1888 in a brick keystone. I'm sure this building used to be a stable.

I loved the swirly carving at his neck, the aged look in his eye, and the moss on his nose. He looks so magestic.

I remembered that I took his picture as I was thinking about what to get for my sister in law's birthday. She runs a horse farm, and I never know what to get for her. So. I made a canvas print for her of this photograph.

Here's how you can produce an equally amazing canvas wrapped gift, or something perfect for your walls:

1.) Upload your photo to Picnik. Use all of their really cool photo effects to create and perfect the look of your photo.

2.) Go to Canvas On Demand, upload your newly created photo, and select which size canvas you'd like and how you'd like it wrapped or framed.

3.) Before you check out on Canvas On Demand, go to Retail Me Not for a discount code. 20april will get you 20% off!

Here's what I ordered:

I hope she loves it!

Bank Some Happiness

2011-03-15T09:01:00.001-04:00

I was scrolling through my camera and my phone pictures this morning. Any time I need a little happiness, I take a peek back through all of the funny and sweet and silly things that I've taken pictures of.

I realized that I often take non-traditional photos. Ones that are of the everyday goofiness and chaos and crazy that makes me happy. Instead of only dragging your camera out on "special occasions" to take orderly family photos, keep it in your bag and take a picture of anything that makes you smile. You'll love scrolling back through all of the captured moments.

The above is a picture of my daughter's chalky foot. Taken while in the midst of filling my driveway with art work.

Don't you just love blue candy?

Make your son feel like a Superhero even if he's just doing his math homework!

Um, well if you happen to run across a polar bear pelt, have your daughter stand in front of it's head and make a funny face!

Stick a piece of corn where your tooth used to be.

Take foam squares and stick them randomly to your face.

Take a picture of your elbow. It really does look like...well, you know.

And how about this super happy toothless grin! It makes me smile!

I'm not good at saying "No"

2011-02-28T13:58:00.000-05:00

I'm a Yes person. Sure I can help. Absolutely, you can count on me. Why not? I've found that lately my desire to help out or pitch in has been to the detriment of my family and more importantly, to my laundry.

I have been inspired by my painter to start a list of readily available and scripted excuses for why I can't do things. Maybe if I just had a list nearby, it would be easier to get out of stuff. My painter has a list as long as his arm of excuses. Here are some that I've heard lately:

My daughter was sick and I had to get her from school

A tree trimmer got his truck stuck in my driveway. He got unstuck by 11am, but by then, I had started to clean the garage

I have another job that is bigger than yours

I'm feeling foggy today

So, I need some more excuses for my arsenal. What are some of your go-to's?

Help!....I can't stand it!

2011-02-21T08:06:00.001-05:00

I know I shouldn't care. I don't know why it's such a big deal...I'm just a quiet person. I enjoy quiet.
I ride in the car for hours with just my own thoughts. Noise in the background makes me nuts. For example, a TV that someone has walked away from hours ago, and was left on: makes me crazy. Any kind of Nintendo game constantly playing the same tune, or worse yet, the gun noise constantly: makes me nuts.

Click Here for credit for this perfect image.

Here's the thing: My daughter constantly hums. It's a happy noise, full of tune and is her own personal song. She hums in the car, while she's reading, during homework. It makes me crazy. I hate to squelch her happiness, but sometime I snap. (Then I feel badly) What should I do??

Steak Stew

2011-02-19T09:08:00.002-05:00

I've been time challenged when it comes to dinners around here. I was inspired by the giant Costco "stew meat" package. I remember my Mom making stew when I was little, it was a really good one pot meal. So, I brought home the ingredients, and drug out the crock pot. BOY, am I glad I did. Imagine my surprise when it turned out really good, and my kids were asking for seconds. The recipie I used allowed for a lot of interpretaion (for example, it didn't call for carrots, but there were carrots in the picture of the meal). There were also other discrepancies with measurments. I've cleaned it up, and revised it here:

Steak Stew (Named By My Daughter...Who Loves Steak..)

1/2 cup plus 2 tblsp. flour, divided

2 tsp salt

1 tsp pepper

3 lbs. beef stew meat

3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

1 can (16 oz) diced tomatoes in juice, undrained

6 ribs celery

1 cup chopped onion

1/2 cup chicken broth

3 cloves garlic, minced

3 tblsp. water

2 cups diced carrots

1.) combine the 1/2 cup flour, salt and pepper in a large resealable plastic bag, add the beef and shake until the beef is coated. Place in slow cooker. Add remaining ingredients except the 2 tblsp. flour and water.

Cover and cook on low 8-12 hours, or on high 4-6 hours.

2.) One hour before serving, combine 2 tblsp flour and 3 tblsp water in a small bowl. whisk together and add to the stew mixture. Cover and cook until thickened.

This stew is excellent served with my Amish Cornbread.

BOY Valentines

2011-02-07T14:12:00.001-05:00

Valentine's Day is nearly upon us. Every year, my girls go nuts painting and primping and cutting and pasting and glittering their Valentine's Boxes. Every year, my boys moan.

I found this very boy-ish valentine from Family Fun for my 6 year old to make for his class. He was very excited to make them, and is now excited to give them. They are far from the norm of sticky sweet kissy and huggy valentines!

Here's what you'll need to make your own fleet of vrooming dive-bombing valentine treats and toys all in one:

rubber bands, life savers mints, Smartie's and some stick gum.

I wrapped my gum in brown paper that I had stamped with hearts (note that I did the stamping with hearts...my son could have cared less).

Take the rubber bands, string 2 lifesavers through the holes and then slide either end of the rubber band over the sticks of gum. Then slide a Smartie through the middle of the two lifesavers.

It's SO easy, and so sweet!

Custom Beads!

2011-02-04T16:09:00.000-05:00

Well, we are at it again. My husband is cranking out these custom made beads as a fundraiser for our kid's school.

Each student designs his or her own bead with pencil and paper. My very talented husband then creates each of their beads in glass. We offer them to the parents for sale on an 18" sterling silver necklace accented with 2 silver beads.

The fun is not just for the students at our school though, YOU can design your own bead too! Or have your husband draw something, or have your 2 year old scribble a pattern, or design it yourself! Visit my Etsy site to place an order.

They are terrific personalized gifts for Mother's Day.

Did You Know You Could Make a Puzzle from a Photo?

2011-01-18T07:27:00.000-05:00

My Mom has been crazy about "having a puzzle going" all winter. I think ever since she heard that Barbara and George Bush frequently do puzzles together, she has been validated that this is a legitimate, even desirable thing. The winter days are long, as we know, and she really enjoys finding a few pieces here and there. Sometimes she saves the last 6 pieces for the kids so that they can complete the puzzle...now if that's not love...

You can order your own at http://www.portraitpuzzles.com/, or any number of other sites. Portrait Puzzles does have a very nice selection of sizes, and I particularly liked the "gift tin" option. It was a great gift idea.

The Letter Project

2011-01-14T07:15:00.002-05:00

I have been working on a project with the 5th graders at school. Every year, our school has an annual auction which serves as a fundraiser. Each grade level is asked to produce an item to be auctioned off.

I know I've got a lot going on right now, and I really don't have time for this, but somehow I get an idea, and I just can't let it go. It turns out that maybe having something "fun" to look forward to makes it easier to "get through" all of the other stuff on my list.

So, here's the project: Finding Architectural Alphabet Letters around school.

I took some examples in to show the kids what we were looking for ( the letter B in the entryway door, for example). Then, each student chose a capital or a lower case letter of the alphabet to find. I've been going in at recess to have the kids point out their letter so we can photograph it. We have been having so much fun! The teachers have been assigned letters too. Currently, we have are on "all out search mode" for the letters: a, and R.

Capital Q on a post in the playground

Xavier found and X on the bottom of his chair

Lower case i in the flagpole

Capital V in the roof of the playground building

Peter found a P in the slide

And if you could have seen the expression of recognition on the boy's face who couldn't for the life of him find a letter E, you'd know why I'm doing this project. It's all about having the kids look at things in a different way, from a different angle, in a new light. What a great lesson.

I have plans to edit all of my images in a sepia tone and create a message board of sorts. I'll be so excited to share the finished project!

This is BETTER Than a Zoo, Ripley's, and a furniture store

2011-01-12T09:22:00.000-05:00

My son broke his tooth off sledding this past weekend. As a result of an extreme case of motherly angst, the Dentist came in on his day off monday. He was able to "fix" my son's tooth by bonding it. My son thinks it's "perfect". Moms are a little more descriminating, but it's WAY better than how it looked sunday evening. So, for that I am grateful.

Making a long story long, my 11 year old and I were in downtown Pittsburgh at noon, with hours to kill before picking up the rest of the kids at school at 3pm.

I remembered a place I've been wanting to visit. It's very out of the way, and I would never be in this neighborhood for any other reason. I thought it was a furniture store. My son was less than thrilled.

The trauma begins here....This is the "before" picture of my son's front tooth.

Here is the "after". Thank God for great, talented, flexible, and understanding dentists!

And so we headed to Artifacts, it is located in Pittsburgh's West End. Just look at this giant room full of rugs! Overwhelming to say the least.

The furiture was truly unbelieveable. The carved tables, chests, mirrors. It was impossible to take it all in. The dining room table where the dwarves are dining (?) is easily 15X15!

And now for the oddities: Anyone need a stuffed gizzly? only $22,000!

A polar bear pelt? This is a bargain at $7000.

I was so amazed and stunned and overwhelmed with the place I forgot to include the giraffe and the 13 foot python! You really must see this place yourself!

My Cup of Tea: Christmas Ornament

2010-12-14T06:32:00.001-05:00

Last year, my friends and I made ornaments for one another, and they all were so special and unique, and they carry so many memories for me.

As I was putting up my "pretty tree" in the entry a few weeks ago, I was hanging all of my precious ornaments.

I thought I'd be so much fun to keep up the tradition, so we made each other some more for this year's memories.

I saw this cute little tea cup at Ikea. It's an expresso cup, really, but it's so small it's almost like a child's tea set in size.

I thought about how nice it is at times to have a cup of tea with my friends, and an idea for an ornament was born.

I glued the cup and the saucer together with super glue. Then I used white glue placed in a baggie with the corner snipped, and made designs of snowflakes and a first initail on the cup, like you'd pipe on icing. Then I liberally sprinkled on glitter. The next step was the tea bag. I had to "scale down" a regular tea bag, because a regular sized one looked too big with this tiny cup. I just snipped it apart, and made it smaller, being sure to staple it back together the same way that it came apart. Then, dip the tea bag in mod podge, and set it near the cup to dry. I tied a ribbon around the handle to hang it from. I replaced the standard tea label with one of my own: " Merry Christmas 2010"!

It's Holiday Time: Amidst All of the Family Time, It's Nice to have a Game up Your Sleeve

2010-11-30T08:19:00.000-05:00

We gather as a family a lot during the time between Thanksgiving and New Year's. It's usually lots of fun, and we spend most of the time eating, drinking and catching up. But, it's nice to have a game to play...something to get the whole crowd involved.

This year at Thanksgiving, we played Photo Scavenger Hunt!

Everyone can play! Choose random things around your house, pick likely party activities (like someone drinking something in the kitchen), make a list, and choose a central person to report to (this is a great job for a Grandma who's not able to get around like she used to).

Here's what was on our list:

- A Cat
- A Straw

-One of your team mates giving someone else a hug (shown)
-Someone's ear (other than your team mate's)
- A Sink
-A Trash Can
- A Tree

-A house (shown)
-A cupcake
-A magazine
-Someone's nose (other than your team mate's)
- A leaf

-Your hand making a peace sign (shown)
- Someone in the kitchen
-A blade of grass
-A drink with ice cubes

- A paper airplane (shown)
- A pair of shoes
-You and your team mates making serious faces

- A turkey hand on a piece of paper (shown)
- The pen that you are crossing things off with
- A TV

- Someone drinking something in the kitchen (shown)
- Something yellow
- A lego ship built out of at least 10 lego bricks
- Your hand making a heart

Have everyone report to Grandma (or whoever is designated) and then the pictures can be reviewed and "qualified". The winner gets a prize (a box of chocolates, a bottle of wine, base the item on your crowd).

Everyone has a camera at gatherings, and cell phones are great for taking photos too. This is an easy and fun game to get the crowd energized, and ready to have fun!

Your Kids Will LOVE This Goo!

2010-10-05T07:39:00.001-04:00

If you are looking for something gross to do with your kids as Halloween approaches, here's an idea! This goo is perfectly gross and very kid (and Mom) friendly.

Here's what you'll need: mostly Borax and white glue.

Mix as per the directions. And you'll have a gooy playdough type substance that is more slippery and wet. The great part is that it is washable! Your kids will love it!

GOOEY GUNK

Solution A
1 cup water
1 cup white glue
7-10 drops of food coloring
Solution B
1 1/3 cup warm water
4tsp. borax laundry booster(you can find it at giant eagle)

1. Mix ingredients in solution A together in a medium bowl.
2. In a second medium bowl, mix the ingredients in solution B together until the borax is completely dissolved.
3. Slowly pour slution A into solution B(Do Not Mix!)
4. Roll solution A around in solution B 4-5 times.
5. Lift solution A out of solution B(i had excess liquid left in my bowl) and knead for 2-3 minutes.
6. Store Gunk in an airtight container or plastic zip bag.

Need Some Home Decorating Inspiration?

2010-09-20T20:15:00.001-04:00

I know I have been busy getting re-acclimated to the school schedule, room Mom duties, volunteering, and catching up with people I haven't seen all summer.

I'm starting to look at my house in a new light now that it is empty of kid chaos for longer periods of time. I'm wondering how I can make some changes, big and small to make it look more "done", and less thrown together.

I found this site: www.houzz.com This website allows you to browse pictures of homes/rooms that have been submitted by architects and home designers. You can save your favorite ideas in your own "idea books".

I have literally spent hours looking for inspiration. Yes, I know, I could have spent those hours de-cluttering. But now I have a few "idea books" brewing, so that when the Mr. says "What are you trying to do here?", I can just show him the picture.

An Aha Moment with Ketchup

2010-08-23T09:13:00.000-04:00

Yes, you heard me right.

We don't do the drive through very often, but my son had a friend in the car, and we were headed fishing. It just was easier to pick up lunch on the way. I enjoy ketchup with my fries, but I usually don't order it, for me or for the kids. It's beacuse of those messy packets. The ones where you tear the corner off, and then you have ketchup covered little triangles of aluminum and plastic. Then you've got to squeeze the ketchup out...onto what? A napkin? It ooozes through. The bag that the food came in? Then you don't have a safe place to put the little messy bits of remaining ripped packets. I had no idea how much all of this bothered me until the other day, and Chick Filet served these:

Hallelujah! Pull the top back, and dip (or tear the top off and squeeze). How simple is that? Thank you Heinz!

Speaking of ketchup, my brother in law made some awesome ketchup from scratch the other day. He looked at the ingredients on the Heinz bottle and made his own.

It is YUMMY! Although somehow when you say ketchup, you are expecting Heinz, and when it doesn't taste like Heinz, you are disappointed, right? So I think my brother in law's should be called something else. Just to get around the expectations.

And while I'm pondering about condiments, why are there 30 different kinds of mustards, and only one kind of ketchup?

Behind the Scenes at The Zoo

2010-08-16T07:48:00.001-04:00

We were able to tour the Zoo last week and got a bit of a "behind the scenes" experience.

I could stay in the aquarium all day. There is something about all of those colorful, fish swimming that I can't get enough of.

I'm glad I have never had the "opportunity" to have met any of these guys in the wild. Their black eyes make them seem even more menacing.

The zookeeper told my kids that this cat, whose habitat is northern Russia, will be Extinct in the wild within their lifetimes. She said there are only 35 of these leopards alive in the wild right now. They are hunted by the natives of that part of the world for their fur.

This giraffe was hand fed from the time it was a baby. So, he was very friendly. All I could think of was this big guy following his owner around like a puppy...all leggy and frisky, and 15 feet tall!

And, in case no one has ever warned you, giraffes are very slobbery, and they are usually drooling on you if you happen to be underneath them!

If You Sell On Ebay, Here's A Reason Why You Need An iPhone

2010-08-05T07:33:00.001-04:00

I've been in a MAJOR clean-out mode. I'm feeling a little trapped by my possessions. The keeping of them, the cleaning of them, the ordering of them, the remembering that I own them. I'm finding that at least 60% of the things around the house go un-used.

Maybe it's my fault for letting this go on for too long. I've got baby toys in the basement, and my "baby" is 6. Others are better at regular purging. I aspire to be like them.

My kids are all exctied to have a garage sale. I was thinking the quicker way to rid myself of all of this stuff would be a few car loads to Goodwill. But, the kids really want to be in charge of the "big sale". I think it's about handling the money, and selling lemonade and cookies more than anything else. We have agreed that EVERYTHING left over immediately gets chucked into the car bound for Goodwill. I could use some Garage Sale advice if you have any. I've never had one.

For the stuff that's maybe worth a little more, I'm giving Ebay another shot. So the heirerarchy is: Ebay, Garage Sale, Goodwill. I resolved to charge enough for shipping, as I always seem to short myself, which is a constant irriation.

Here's what I wanted to show you:

There is an app for Ebay Selling!

Here's the first screen. So easy! Do you see that little bar code screen at the top? Your phone can scan bar codes and automatically upload your item. Now, not every bar code scan works..but it's worth a shot, and it's fun.

And if the bar code doesn't work, you can take a picture of your item right then and there. Type in a quick description, and you are Selling!

Coming Across Some Inspiration

2010-07-27T06:46:00.004-04:00

I had to go pick up my oldest from camp this past weekend, so we tied in a quick weekend trip to visit relatives. We fit in an action-packed day full of non-stop activity. Here are some things that we saw along the way. Not, typical scenic shots, but some ideas about how to see things differently that I thought were intriguing.

We went to a museum where they had a pretty extensive shell collection. They basically hot glued these shells to fishing line, and back-lit them. I think even without the backlight, it's a great idea!

We stopped at a cafe and had lunch. Instead of standard curtains, they laid these fancy linens over the curtain rod. They are all vintage table runners, and embroidered napkins. It looked perfect in this trendy lunch spot.

And how about this: This floor mosaic was made by cutting stones in half, and then using the flat sides to create these fern-like leaves. I'm not really sure how I'd replicate this one, unless someone I know owns a tile saw, and I'm pretty sure I may need to buy an extra diamond-tip blade, but it sure would be fun!

And speaking of inspiration, My Cement Birdbath made from Skunk Cabbage is featured this week at All Thingz Related! Look in the sidebar for me, but look eveywhere else for some other great ideas!

The Kids Will Love These

2010-07-20T07:30:00.001-04:00

There is something about things that aren't their "normal" size that totally fascinates kids, and maybe people in general, I'm thinking about all of those entries in the Guiness Book of World Records.

We had pizza last night for dinner, but the kids and I put a new twist on it.

We rolled out the pizza dough and cut it out with a large cirlce cookie cutter.

Then I let the kids put on their own toppings. I found mini pepperonis, too. The kids just loved it.

I sliced these little pizzas into bite sized wedges, and the kids were just so thrilled by it all.

I thought later that a giant cookie would have been the perfect thing for dessert!

Help! My Daughter Has Left For Camp!

2010-07-16T09:23:00.000-04:00

My little girl has gone to camp. I'm not really sure how all of this has come together. I guess it was that her friends were going, and she really wanted to go, and she loved camp with a school group last spring, and she WANTED to go biking, hiking and camping. (This is my girl that usually just wants to go to the library.)

So, she's off to camp. There was such a flurry of activity in accumulating all of the things that she'll need, getting her packed (and re-packed) and checking (and double checking) that she had everything, that it feels like now that she's left, I have time to register the fact.

I've already sent her a sappy "I hope you are having the best time ever" letter. I don't want to say what I really feel: "I Miss You", in case that just makes her homesick and miserable.

I hope for my sake that this isn't how all of the growing up and letting go with be, but I have a feeling that it will be. A flurry of activity: I can see us hurriedly shopping for sheets for college, and us running late to drive her there, and all in a whoosh, there is the drop off and the good byes, and then there is me sitting in the car wondering what happened.

Any advice from anyone out there?

My Dad's Book

2010-07-13T13:50:00.000-04:00

My Dad's Book has been published!

Many of you know that my Dad died in late spring this year. He wrote his own autobiography in January of this year. I wanted to publish his words, about his life. There were also some other notable writings that I have included in the book: When my Dad was in hospice care, he was visited by a man who writes memoirs, there are several letters that are included; from friends and published letters about my Dad, eulogies, and poems.

I addition, there many historic photographs that I've included as they relate to the stories that are being told, and others that I've included in a photo album style. When my grandfather was young, he was a hobbyist photographer, and I owe all of these great historic photographs to him.

Albert D. Croskey The Life and Times by Marjorie Recker | Make Your Own Book

I used Blurb to publish this book. I have been very impressed with the quality of the photographs, the cover, in particular is just beautiful, and it feels nice, almost smooth and velvety.

It was easy to edit and there were many different page layouts that suited my purposes.

It's a great way to get yourself published!

Here's Something I'd Like to Try: Plastic Bottle Flowers

2010-07-13T08:06:00.002-04:00

What an amazing twist on recycling! These beautiful flowers are made from plastic bottles. If you look closely, you can start to see the bottoms of all of the bottles stacked up. Different sized bottles are used, and then cut into different petal designs. I imagine some heat is applied to get the petals to curl a bit. The underside of the petals are painted in layers, so that the facing side is all glossy and stunning.

I looked around, and found these beautiful flowers on Etsy: They are made in the same way, only the plastic water bottles are left clear, and some swarovski crystal is added to the center of this broach. They are just incredible. You can find this and other amazing water bottle creations in Zebra 1684's shop.

A Lego Lover's Cake

2010-07-12T07:55:00.001-04:00

My little guy(s) LOVE their Lego. I remember when I was growing up, my brothers would scratch through the big cardboard box of Lego pieces just as my boys do today. My oldest son just found a Lego motor in the "big box" at my Moms, it uses 3 C-cell batteries, and turns a small gear, we estimated that it is 30 years old! Does that make it Vintage Lego?

We decided on a Lego theme for my recent 6 year old this year...mainly because all he wanted for his birthday was LEGO!

So, a cake is born: We used 2 sheet cakes, 9 X 12, and layered them, for the Lego brick. Then, we used 6 cupcakes and turned them upside down for the Lego "buttons".

We added a real set of Lego people that lounged around the top of the cake. My brother meticulously wrote "Lego" with icing on each of the "buttons" in the correct font.

My little guy just loved everything about it, including the fact that he got to keep the Lego guys from the cake.

The Perfect Gift for Kids of Most Ages

2010-07-09T07:34:00.003-04:00

We have been away recently, and with the whirl of end of school, and spending some time away with family, this blog has taken a back seat. I assure you that all of this travel has done nothing but inspire me. My arsenal is full of ideas.

Let's start with something that my kids (ages 6-11) had fun with the entire trip: These Klutz facepaints.

These paints are by far the nicest paints I have ever come across. They glide on smoothly, they mix beautifully, and they are completely washable. The boys enjoyed these as much as the girls. They wanted rockets blasting up their arms, snakes slithering around their ankles.

The girls loved the butterflies, and the "cats". The book literally shows step by step how to create each of these designs. It's incredibly easy, and the results made the kids giggle with delight!

The only thing I'd add to the set is a bit of glitter. If you sprinkle it on while the paint is still wet, It would make the butterflies sparkle.

A Tree and A Story

2010-06-07T12:42:00.001-04:00

My sweet and kind neighbors took up a donation for my Dad shortly after his death. They gathered funds in order to give me money to plant a tree in his memory.

I immediately thought of a cherry tree, because as a boy, Dad told me that he planted a cherry tree in the orchard. The picture here shows him picking cherries from his tree. I talked to my brother about it, and he seemed hesitant. A cherry is a good idea, but they require some maintenance and usually the birds get the cherries, not us. I asked if he had a suggestion. Then he launched into a story about how he was on a job with Dad once and Dad just pulled the truck over to the side of the road and said: "Come on, I want to show you something" (in typical Dad fashion). They lumbered out of the truck and across the road, and down a driveway to someone's back yard. Dave said that he remembers a lady standing at her kitchen door throwing daggers from her eyes at these two strangers walking through her yard. She eventually recognized Dad, who had done a digging job for her neighbor. Dad wanted to show Dave the tree in her back yard. It was a giant, tall and straight, and the most perfect tree my brother had ever seen. Dad obviously thought a lot of it too. The lady said it was a Redwood Tree. Growing right here, in western Pa.

So, we sought a Redwood tree for Dad. I didn't have any idea where to even buy something that I didn't even know grew in this area. We went to a tree farm, very near where I live, and asked the very knowledgeable guy who works there. He said: "Sure, that's a Dawn Redwood, take my golf cart and head over to section 16C, there are some in pots around 17D as well. We zipped off in the cart looking for a Redwod. Here is the tree we found for Dad.

I did some research on this tree and apparently there are only 3 surviving species of Redwood, this is the smallest. It will still grow to 200 feet, and may grow as much as 2 feet per year. It will live a very long time. People thought that this tree was extinct until 1941, when a stand of these trees was found on a remote hillside in China. There is a nursery in North Carolina that specializes just in preserving this tree.

The top photo shows my brother, Dave, and my 4 kids at the helm of my Dad's backhoe planting this glorious tree. The tree was planted at the crest of the hill at the farm, and it shelters my Dad's favorite dog's grave.

I felt like so many things came together to make this the perfect tree for my Dad. He must have helped us put all of these pieces together.

Wouldn't You Stop?

2010-06-02T08:28:00.001-04:00

So if you were driving along and you happened across a dozen or so 10 foot tall wild boars made from cement, wouldn't you stop? You know I would! The owner had all sorts of interesting things made from cement. Little garden ornaments, as well as religious stautues, stepping stones, planters and benches of all kinds. I was even more interested given my recent experience with my own cement sand casting. (Don't get your heart set on these wild boars though, they are already SOLD, just sitting here, being "Aged" to get just the right patina for the owner.

This creative cement expert does a lot of custom work, which includes sinks, and countertops. He makes planters to line city streets, and he makes them look bronze. He is also an expert faux finisher. Just look at this bench...it looks like petrified wood!

I was glad that the boars stopped me in my tracks!

Could You Stop Over and Cut My Jeans?

2010-05-27T09:50:00.001-04:00

You know you have a friend when the answer is yes, without any further questioning.

I bought the above jeans at the Industrial Park (See link for full story). They were long. I knew all I'd have to do was cut them off at the bottom, and replicate the frayed look.

So, my friend Juniper stopped over and I stood on a chair and she carefully cut the bottom of my jeans off, inch by half an inch until they were just right. Just in case you are wondering, no guy will ever understand any of this. (Why did you buy them if they were too long?, Those jeans have holes in them, you seriously bought those?, What are you doing?, Why do you need a friend?, Can't you just cut them off yourself? Why do you need my sander?)

After you've had your friend cut them just so, take some sandpaper and rough up the ragged seam so that it matches the rest of your jeans!

What is it With Bread Ties?

2010-05-19T08:15:00.000-04:00

I find these on my counter all of the time. I can't seem to throw them away. I'm really not sure why. I think it's a distant childhood memory. Something like this: "Don't throw that away, honey, we can ALWAYS use those." I'm not sure what to use them for. I have a junk drawer with far too many of them.

I have used them to tie plants to trellises. That's the only thing I can think of. Sometimes I think they'd be good to tie cords, like cell phone chargers, into bundles, but rubber bands work way better.

Do you have the same problem? What do you re-use the bread ties for? Was this just my family that couldn't throw them away?

Painting Your Cement Bird Bath Leaf

2010-05-14T08:08:00.001-04:00

I have gotten such a great response to my bird bath leaves. I thought I'd go ahead and paint one. This is an optional step, but painting your leaf can make it look more realistic, and it will more readily match your garden decor.

Start with some acrylic paint. You'll just need a dab (about half of the amount of toothpaste that you'd use). Then add about 1/4 cup of water to the paint and stir. If the wash is too dark, just add more water, too light, add more paint. You get the idea.

I painted mine layer upon layer of a lime green and then some yellow on top. Layering is the key to great results. You can't mess this up, so keep adding color.

Once you're reached the desired color, let the paint dry, and then brush on some cement sealer to hold the color. The sealer will make your leaf a bit shiny, so it looks like it's been freshly rained upon.

Cement Birdbath Tutorial : Made with Skunk Cabbage

2010-05-10T22:51:00.004-04:00

When I told my Mom and my Mother In Law that their Mother's Day gifts were made out of cement and skunk cabbage, they both had the same quizzical look.

A friend of mine had shared the "recipe" for making these beautiful bird baths, and the kids and I made them for the grandmothers.

The technique is called "sandcasting". Here's what you'll need:

Sand, trash bags, a mixing container, cement (the non-rocky kind, preferably quick-dry), rubber gloves,a large leaf, such as skunk cabbage, paint and sealer are optional.

First, lay out your plastic bag as a work surface. You'll want to do this in a flat area, preferably outside. Keep in mind that you'll need to leave it there for a bit while the cement cures, so don't make it on the same table where you expect to eat dinner in an hour.

Mound the sand in a general leaf shape, with a higher mound near the largest part of the leaf. Make it a shallowish and natural shape. Your goal here is to provide a surface to support the cement while it is drying.

Next, layer another trash bag over the cement. (Make sure there are no seams). Then lay your large leaf over the sand form upside down. Now, mix the cement with your hands, using the rubber gloves. I got the "just add water" quick dry cement. You'll want the cement to be the consistency of cake batter. Start smoothing a thin layer of cement over the leaf, then, layer the cement on until the whole leaf is covered by at least 1/2 an inch of cement. Take the cement right up to the edges of the leaf. If you'd like, use something flat, like the bottom a bucket, to make a flat spot on the top of the cement (this will later serve as a flat spot for resting your birdbath).

When the cement is dry, flip your creation, peel the leaf out of the cement. You'll be left with this beautiful, natural leaf shape that will hold just enough water for a bird to splash around in.

If you'd like, you can paint your leaf with acrylic paints, and seal it with cement protectant.

I'm participating in:

Here's What I Don't Want

2010-05-09T08:35:00.001-04:00

I completely escaped the whole 'breakfast in bed for Mom on Mother's Day' experience today. Due to crazy sport schedules, and late nights that led to sleepovers, I only have one snuggly bug 5 year old this morning. He's happy to have cheerios and watch cartoons, and let me snuggle with him. Ahhh, this is bliss.

I'm so glad that I don't have to endure the whole giant, crummy, bad coffee and eternal waiting breakfast in bed this year. I'm just not a good enough actress to pull that off. I tried last year, and the kids thought I didn't like the blueberry pancakes (which, I didn't, I have NEVER liked blueberry pancakes), but that wasn't the reason for my acting job. I just don't like pretending to enjoy a giant breakfast that is making my bed crummy and sticky. I'm a coffee for breakfast kind of girl. And then breakfast, maybe at 10 am, and that would be some oatmeal or a simple bowl of cereal.

I hope you are having a wonderful mother's day, whatever you are doing today!

You Are Going to Need Some Skunk Cabbage and Some Cement

2010-05-06T10:04:00.002-04:00

Yes, You heard me right. If you happen to be at Home Depot, be sure to pick up some cement, and meet me back here soon! You are going to love this project! I promise!

Historic Photos of Washington, D.C. and Niagra Falls

2010-05-05T10:52:00.000-04:00

Since my Dad's death, I have been going through some very old photographs that have been at the farm forever. My Great Grandfather was a pretty accomplished hobbyist photographer. He held many jobs in his lifetime but, one of his favorites was a job with the Santa Fe Railroad. Dad thought he was a ticket agent. One of the incredible perks of a job like that was that he got to travel anywhere on the Santa Fe for free.

These photographs were taken on original glass slides in the late 1800's, or early 1900's.

I'm pretty sure the above(and below) were taken in Washington, D.C. I can't imagine how the above photograph was taken. Do you see the Washington Memorial in the background? How was it taken from this height?

Does anyone know what this monument is?

I think maybe this is the train station.

Can you see these ladies in their long skirts, and the men in their suits and hats? I think this was taken at Niagra Falls.

There is nothing written on the backs of any of them. It's a reminder to me to write even faintly the date, and who is in the photo, and where it was taken.

Baby Doll Tunic Transformed

2010-05-04T06:15:00.002-04:00

I had recently purchased this baby doll tunic for my 12 year old. I just loved it. I think it was the cabbage rose detail. My daughter tried it on, and it was just all wrong. The top was too bunchy, it made her look too busty. And, overall it was too short. It neither looked like a tunic or a shirt. It was just off.

My daugher was taking it off, and I realized that it would make a great skirt! So, I sewed around the elastic that was at the chest.

And then I cut the top away from the bottom.

Like so.

Just look at this darling skirt! It looks terrific with just a white t-shirt. Very J Crew-ish.

I had fabric left over from the top, and I found these hair clips in my sewing basket.

So, I mimiced the cabbage rose with a bit of the strap of the tunic. I used a basting stitch and pulled the thread so it bunched just right.

What a sweet little hair clip that matches the skirt exactly. She might even wear this one!

I'm submitting this project for Hope Studios Teach Me Stuff Tuesday!

Going on a Treasure Hunt

2010-05-03T08:32:00.001-04:00

I went on a Treasure Hunt this week. Juniper was on a tear, needing something special. She was sure that she'd find it at the city's architectural salvage place. It's called Constuction Junction. They've got lots of amazing things . Let me share a few:

Look at this ceiling tin! I see loads of possibility here. The edges are sharp, and everything is mostly pretty dirty, and there are signs warning of lead paint, but let's just look past that, and see only potential.

Look at these great burlap coffee sacks. I'm not sure what I'm going to do with mine, but I'll enjoy researching some possibilities. And, by the way, since when is coffee from Germany?

Here's Juniper digging for her own $1.50 worth of project fun.

How about some paint, Dude!

And where ever would you find a wax cast of a menorah? I bet you couldn't find one if you were looking.

And because I took my little guy, I came home with $2.25 worth of stuff that I could easily find in my garage, or recycle bin. But, he had fun gathering all of this treasure for himself, he wants to build a rocket out of it. The plans are all laid out in his head.

I need some ideas on what to do with the burlap. Do you have any?

All Eggs Are Not Created Equal

2010-04-26T08:04:00.000-04:00

My egg supplier, my Mom, has been busy. Or should I say that her chickens have been busy. My Mom has about 40 chickens, and sells free range, organic eggs. The eggs are placed in a cooler with ice every morning, and then Mom drops them off down by the road, at a very sweet "egg stand" that my brother made for her. It's just a little shelter that holds the cooler. Customers are on their honor to leave the $1.50 for the dozen eggs.

It seems that more and more people are driving up the driveway now, if the cooler is empty. It's not uncommon for my Mom to go and gather the eggs for a customer that is waiting in the yard with their car running.

I stopped out on Saturday, and there was a customer waiting. It turns out that he runs a local restaurant, and was so pleased to have found my mom and the fresh eggs. He was wanting to strike up a deal right then and there for first dibs on daily eggs. Mom has way too many loyal customers for that, so she told him he'd have to take his chances, like everyone else.

So, when I asked for a dozen eggs before I left, Mom and I laughed about what she gave me! Seconds! These are the unsaleable eggs: too small, or lumpy or odd to sell.

They're all just as good on the inside though. I used them for breakfast yesterday .Thanks, Mom!

Babies, Babies, Everywhere! What Do They Need?

2010-04-23T08:01:00.000-04:00

It seems that these things come all at once: weddings and babies. You know, you haven't been to a wedding in ages, and all of a sudden, you are invited to 3! In my extended family, we are having babies. I've got cousins on all sides having new little ones. I've got showers to attend in some cases, and gifts that I need to send in others.
I love looking at all of this little cute stuff again. (My baby is 5).

My question is this: What was/is your favorite thing for your baby? A piece of equipment, or a meaningful gift. It could be just a huge array of onsies that wore like iron. I'm looking for ideas here.

One of my all time, can't live without (at the time) things for baby was a backpack carrier like this one:

Those front slings made my back ache, but, a properly worn backpack puts all of the weight on your hips. I found them to be very comfortable, and the kids just loved their birds-eye view. Plus, I liked the extra benefits of some weight training to help me lose the pregnancy pounds. I must admit that I am a stroller hater. They take up so much space, they are awkward and clumsy. Just try to get through a department store aisle at Christmas time and you'll know what I mean. I'd plop my kids in the backpack and go like the wind.

I have found that not everyone is a backpack lover though. I've even heard the words: "contraption", and "no way" uttered about my beloved backpack.

What was your favorite baby thing? I need to buys some gifts people, and I need some good ideas!
(I have 2 boys and a girl to buy for, all from different families).

Sharing My "Finds"

2010-04-20T06:54:00.000-04:00

I promised you that I'd share what I was able to find at the warehouse sale last week. It was busier than ever, and Juniper and I had to wait in line just to get in. We kept wondering why there was a limit on the number of people allowed in. We didn't think there was any kind of fire code in an open air tent.

Crowd control must have been their goal. But, we were an orderly bunch. Although numerous. The racks were jammed in, people were carrying boxes to fill, pushing them in front of themselves.

There were women following workers trying to unload even more goods off of trucks, like they had saved the best stuff until last. My favorite part is the "dressing area" though. It's basically the lawn of the office building. This is where everything gets tried on, Juniper and I noticed some new signs this year though, on the Outside of the windows, they said: "Yes, we CAN see you". I guess they got an eye-full last year!

Here is a short list of my "finds". The above sparkly earrings for around 18 cents.

This bag for $1. I thought it would be a great overnight bag for my 7 year old.

Check out this cute chunky sweater. I love it with a cami underneath.

And my ALL TIME FAVORITES: These boots! Yes, Boots! Aren't they fun? My daughter just absolutely hates them, and made me promise to NOT wear them if I'm around her, and it goes without saying that if her friends saw me in them, she'd keel over in embarrassment. I think this means they're good, right?

Somehow I think they're funny, and perfect for a rainy day.

Sorry, I can't today. I've got plans to try on clothes in an Industrial Park.

2010-04-16T07:48:00.000-04:00

Oh, and did I mention that there are no dressing rooms? Just the great outdoors.

There is a clothing company near here that has a sample sale a few times a year. It's usually a circus (hence the tent-Ha!) There are racks and racks of clothes, shoes, belts, bags. Everything you can think of. They are priced on a sliding scale. So, maybe $5 for one item, 3 for $10. So, you have to keep track of your item count to get the best deal.

Sometimes you buy stuff just for the buttons, or the fabric, or maybe you can change something that you love. Hey, it's pure inspiration. Lots of fun.

The tricky part is trying things on. You are literally in the lawn of an office building in an industrial park. Plan your dress appropriately, and you'll be fine. And, by that I mean: wear a skirt and a tank top. You can try on pants under the skirt, and tops on over the tank. Some girls just wear swim suits, but I'm not up for that.

Stop back to see what fabulous things I come home with!

Everyone Should Experience This Once in Your Life

2010-04-14T08:36:00.003-04:00

I grew up on a working farm. It is still a working farm. My brother and my Dad came up with a plan about when to sell the yearling calves before my Dad passed. It was time to sell. I went with my brother, sort of as a pilgrimage to a place that I really haven't been to since I was a kid. And, I went because my brother could use some help. I also went because it would have pleased my Dad. But, selfishly, I went because it is like stepping into a different world.

The local livestock auction is north of here, only about 45 minutes. The sights and the sounds of the place are hard to forget.

Maybe I'm a bit nostalgic, because when I was a kid, it was always a big day to take off of school, and go to market.

First comes the loading. This usually happens the night before. Loading animals onto trailers and trucks that they don't want to be on can be difficult at the least, and always dangerous. A 600 lb. pig usually gets his way vs. a 50 lb. kid.

We passed an Amish school house on the way there. All of the children were out playing, the girls in fresh purple dresses, and the boys in straw hats.

Once you've gotten to the auction, the Amish take over. And they make it look easy. They unload your trailer into a barn that seems to be a maze of chutes and gates, all numbered. There are animals everywhere. This particular auction barn specializes in pigs, cattle and the occasional goat. Somehow there is this need to check to make sure that your animals are in the stall that the Amish told you that they'd be in. Not that you really doubt the Amish, you just want to look around, and checking on your animals is your excuse. So, you fumble your way through the labyrinth of gates. Here's a tip: However you found the gate, that's how you leave the gate. So, if it's open, leave it open, if it's closed, leave it closed. There is a system that you are completely unaware of, the Amish who run this place know it like the back of their hand.

There are lots of animals mooing, braying and whatnot. The Amish are shouting "Hep!", and snapping whips. I've rarely seen them hit an animal, it's mostly for the sound, to get an animal moving. If you happen to be in a chute while a big bull is coming through, you'll completely understand the "Enter at Your Own Risk" signs that are everywhere. The correct thing to do is scramble up the gate or stall or whatever you are near. Height is your friend.

The animals are all run through a rink like this one. They are sold by the pound, in lots, or by choice. As with all auctions, you really have to pay attention. The guys who do this all of the time make it look like they are barely paying attention.

I did not take the above two photos-I got them online. There are signs in the barn that warn that photos are forbidden. The Amish do not like having their picture taken. And that is putting it mildly. My Dad once told me that they believed that a picture could capture their soul. I'm not sure if that's the reason or not. I just know that they feel strongly about it.

This is the actual barn barn that I visited. This is the main entrance, and I was sure to secretly take this photo from the truck. I made sure no one was in the picture. I just had to show you what was posted on the barn door. Not and advertisement for the next auction, not any kind of self promotion, just this:

Who would have ever guessed that an Emerson quote would be found here? It's no wonder my Dad liked this place, and had so many friends here.

Show Juniper How To Do Stuff Today!

2010-04-13T06:46:00.001-04:00

My great friend, Juniper, over at Hope Studios, is featuring little 'ol me today. She hosts a linky party every Tuesday. Hop on over and teach her some stuff. She's not picky: a sewing project, a paint re-do, or just how you got your 2 year old to lose the binky.

Oh, and there is a prize! If you have always longed for something from my shop, here is your chance to get it for free!

Someday I Hope To Be This Rich

2010-04-12T08:20:00.000-04:00

As some of you know, I lost my Dad two weeks ago. He could no longer go on. His body was broken by cancer.

He told me many times that I could go to the cemetery if I wanted, but that he would not be there. He would be with me. I have to believe that he is, and that he is now guiding my life, and sending me love.

Dad wanted his children, his wife, and people who cared about him to speak at his service. It was a difficult thing to write, trying to sum up a man's whole life and influence in a few pages. It was even harder to read.

I Want to Share With You the Vast Amount of Wealth that My Dad has Accumulated Over His Lifetime:

Now anyone who knew my Dad would know that I'm not talking about a traditional form of wealth. In terms of money, that never mattered to my Dad. As long as he had enough, that was plenty. In fact, when I think about it, my Dad would have enjoyed it if everyone in this world did a job that they were good at and enjoyed, and everyone just helped each other out.

If you could see past the grease on his hands, and the manure on his boots, then you could begin to see what my Dad thought was important.

My Dad was Rich in His Wife, my Mom:

I truly think he was always tickled pink that he found an adventurous girl. And adventure in my Dad's world took lots of forms. Sometimes it was taking a trip, sometimes it was taking the slate roof off of a barn, sometimes it was just watching him work, and worrying about his safe return.

My Dad was Rich in His Family:

He always took great pride in his family's history. He liked to talk about his ancestors, and their lives and accomplishments. He was happy to be a part of a place that has such deep roots.

He spoke highly of his brother Sam, whom he shared the farm with, and was a brother that took care of him when he was a boy.

He also seemed a bit proud of the 4 of us, in our own ways. His gift to us was his strong support in whatever we chose to do. He talked recently about how important it is to love your kids, and let them choose what makes them happy; To choose their own path. He knew that when you liked your work, you were sure to be good at it.

And Speaking of Work, my Dad was Rich in that too:

He always had more work than he could do.  My Dad never advertised once for his backhoe business. Word of mouth and reputation spread quickly about the hard working guy who would get it done, and charge a "reasonable" amount.

The farm work was really a joy to my Dad. He spoke about how he enjoyed riding the tractor and raking the hay. He loved his animals and truly cared for them. He also said that there is no one that enjoys fixing a broken manure spreader.

My Dad was Also Rich in Knowledge:

Many of you may not know that my Dad read nearly every book in his school's library when he was a student. He also graduated at the top of his high school class. He was a straight A student.

Dad also had the kind of knowledge that can only be gained by figuring things out for yourself. If something broke, then he fixed it. As a result, he became handy with a torch, he could weld, and I think he could change a tire in his sleep. So many broken axles, engine replacements, and flat tires. I came to know the local roads simply as references for places that my Dad broke something, and had to walk home, or someone gave him a ride.

I was always amazed that my Dad could barely look at a wrench or a bolt, and know exactly what size it was.  As a kid, you couldn't hand him tools fast enough.

Dad had a good friend, Sammy Davis. Sammy taught him how to work on transmissions, which were a mystery to him at the time. Sammy would say:" If anyone can do it, then YOU can do it." That really stuck with my Dad, and became something that he would say often.

And Speaking of Sammy, My Dad was Rich in Friends:

I think my Dad worked at 3 out of 5 houses in Gibsonia, and the surrounding communities. He sometimes couldn't recall his customer's names, but he could tell you what kind of dirt they had. Dad be-friended so many of his customers by doing an honest day's work, and charging an honest amount. He met many people that have meant so much to him. Some of his friends knew him as "Corn Flakes", and some as "Big Al", but mostly just "Al, the guy with the backhoe, just call him, he'll get it done".

His lifelong friends provided support to him in a way that only a lifelong friend can. Bob has been there from the beginning. He was a great friend to the shy kid that my Dad was in High School, and then he introduced his cousin, my Mom, to Dad, and the rest is history.

Ron Weibel has been a rock through my Dad's working career. He and his family have supported my Dad, and taken care of him as a true friend. My Mom took comfort when Dad was working with Weibel.  She knew that they'd take care of one another, and that the two of them probably wouldn't get into any kind of trouble that they couldn't get themselves out of. And that was a great relief, because Dad, by himself, couldn't be trusted in that way.

I'll conclude by saying: My Dad embodied the phrase "It is better to give than to receive". Anyone who has ever received something from my Dad knew that it held value to him, and anyone who ever tried to give my Dad anything can tell you how difficult it was.

I ask you to go forth and give of yourself, that would be an honor to my Dad.

A Random Act of Kindness For My Dad

2010-03-28T09:23:00.000-04:00

A mystery person dropped off a copy of the newspaper at my parents house this past Thursday. There was a note, referring to page 2.

It turns out that one of the hundreds of people that my Dad has helped through the many years wrote a letter about him and submitted it to their "Random Acts of Kindness" column.

The ironic part is that this guy only knew my Dad for 3 hours. He didn't know he was sick. He didn't know that 3 days later,he would be admitted to the hospital for a swollen leg caused by a blood clot.

Helping this man was my Dad's last "job". The last time he held a shovel in his hands. It's so fitting that he asked for a handshake as payment. My Dad has worked like this his whole life. He regularly underestimates his own knowledge and efforts. Even when my Mom read this letter to him, he brushed it off, like he didn't see the reason for all of the fuss. He didn't think he had done anything special.

My Dad is not well. Cancer has beaten him down to these last days. He is a strong man, with a huge heart. I am trying very hard to memorize the green color of his eyes, the size of his hands, the sound of his voice.

Here is a glimpse of who my Dad is:

Random Acts of Kindness: The septic tank savior

Thursday, March 25, 2010

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Stacy Innerst/PG

This old fellow just likes lending hand to strangers

"Brian, I'd like to make an appointment to have my septic tank cleaned ..."
"OK Tim, but first, you need to unearth the lid, and I don't know where it is. Find Al K., he installed your system years ago for the previous owners, he'll know where it is."
Sunday after Christmas my house had odors. The ground wasn't frozen, so I started to dig. After an hour I found the top of the tank but no lid. Frustrated, I went to find Al K. I pulled up to his house and a youngish-looking, 70-or-so woman splitting wood greeted me. I apologized for intruding on Sunday and she replied with a huge smile, "No problem, we work every day," as if it were their true joy.
Al was napping in his fifth-generation farmhouse in a rocker, in his work clothes, basking in the sun that streamed through the picture window. I hated to wake him. His wife tapped him on the shoulder.
I told him my plight and he asked, "Is momma still splittin' wood?" I said yes. He replied, "You can't find 'em like that anymore," and then he said, "Let's go take a look at the septic system."
It turns out, Al did not install my system but looked at my progress, and then this 74-year-old stranger grabbed a shovel and started digging. As I ran for another shovel I worried: How much does a septic pro cost on a Sunday? You can ask my friends, I'm cheap that way, I don't know why.
Together we unearthed the lid. He took his time and explained what was going on and checked all the plumbing from the house.
I took him home. We pulled up to his house and he said jokingly, "Looks like momma quit as soon as I left." He wouldn't take any money and explained that he does things for people just to help them, and he asked for a handshake.
We shook hands and I gave him a few sticks of really good kielbasa. I really hope he enjoyed it.
TIM HOPEY, Richland

A Walk Through My Yard

2010-03-24T04:24:00.001-04:00

I saw the kids working on some sort of project in the yard yesterday. There was a flurry of activity, supplies gathered, tools used. The beauty was that they required ZERO help from me. I only sideways glanced, so that they wouldn't get the idea that asking me for help was a possibility.

A day later, I walked back there to see what they were up to. I had to laugh. Apparently, they found two dead frogs in the pond after the winter thaw. They gave the little guys paper tombstones and little Popsicle stick crosses. I love it that they stuck them together with Mr. Yuck stickers. Apparently the frogs were yucky.

Passport Photos: Worse Than Driver's License Photos

2010-03-23T09:22:00.000-04:00

I always like to have a current passport. It's like Freedom in a little blue book. As in, if a friend asks: "Hey do you want to go to Costa Rica next week?", I can say: "Why YES, I have a passport!".

It seems that always having a little kid/baby has gotten in the way of me keeping my passport current. Well, thanks to my kid, and potential hockey tournaments in Canada, I am well on my way to getting a fresh blue book.

The lady who took my picture told me not to smile. Apparently teeth interfere with face recognition software. (I'm not kidding.) All I can think of is that if anything happens to me, THIS is the picture of me that will be flashed across the news (The picture to the far right is the current one). I look so miserable that no one will want to help me. They'll think: "She's got such a sour disposition, she got what she deserves".

I think I'm smiling in my driver's license photo, so if anything happens to me, be a friend, and request that the authorities use that one!

What My Kids are "Into"

2010-02-25T20:31:00.000-05:00

Juniper over at Hope Studios asked what my kids are "into". I haven't been able to get on to the computer all evening, because the kids jumped on it as soon as they got home from school to check their Moshi Monsters. It's an online computer game where you build your own monster. It lives in a "world" much like the forerunner, Webkinz. I'm not really sure what else happens. I'm usually trying to come up with something for dinner at this time. I know there has been some lamenting about seeds that have not grown, and pets that have not been received.

By Popular Demand: Custom Order Your Own Bead Necklace

2010-02-24T09:21:00.001-05:00

So many of you have asked about the custom made bead necklaces! I have decided to add them to my Etsy shop. I will ask you to design your own bead, using colored pencils. Add dots, swirls, a metallic finish! We'll make your bead as you have designed it. Think about your Mom's favorite colors, your favorite sports team, go crazy! We'll make the bead, string it on an 18" sterling silver chain and add two sterling silver accent beads. The chain allows the beads to be interchanged, so be sure to order some extra beads!

I Made the Front Page!

2010-02-23T08:43:00.002-05:00

I made Etsy's front page a few days ago. I guess everyone is looking for some green around this time of year, and if you toss in a little LUCK,then it's all for the better!

Get Your Friends Together for a Groupon

2010-02-15T08:28:00.000-05:00

Here's the idea: local businesses offer a great deal on their products and or services. If enough people participate in "the deal" (this is pre-set by the business), then "the deal" is a GO.

I recently bought a $35 gift card to a place my kids go all of the time for $15! Be sure to read the fine print, my certificate is good for a year, but is not valid on weekends.

Check out your local Groupon HERE!

Oh, Alabama: Thank You.

2010-02-11T08:37:00.001-05:00

Oh, Alamaba, you know me, don't you? We were once friends, or are future friends, or maybe just of like minds.

After a rough day yesterday, I found this bundle of love on my front porch. Do you see the box is stenciled! (also note the inches of snow outside the window).

And here's a peek inside. Who doesn't love a brown paper package tied up with string?

And, Oh, Alabama, Here's what's inside: As a thank you for ordering your beautiful NEW book, you sent me a whole yard of 100% green cotton Jaquard fabric and a thick card describing how to make a chair pillow with it.

The book itself was plenty, but thank you, thank you for the surprise. I am inspired not only by your creativity but also by your generosity. You clearly love what you do.

You can visit Alabama HERE, We can make some beautiful things together if you do. In the words of Natalie (aka Alabama): "May the book-and the projects that you will make-fill your home with warmth and great stories..." It already has.

Why Our Kids Need Dads

2010-02-05T09:35:00.000-05:00

Our kids need Dads beacause Dads don't think it's crazy to spend an icy afternoon building an igloo with the kids. (Click Here for the full story) Then, when the kids think it would be "cool" to sleep in it, Dads will say: "Yeah! Let's Sleep Out There!" (Moms say: "Are You Nuts?")

Dads will also spend an enormous amount of energy shovelling a ginormous pond so that the kids have a really big place to go ice skating, and to play hockey. Dads will also take the kids to get ice skates, think nothing of getting the truck stuck in the woods near this pond, and just completely ignore the fact that it's 20 degrees. (In my experience, Moms would notice this stuff, and would not be amused.)

So, I'm glad that my kids have such a great Dad. One that does the "crazy stuff" that I would never even dream of. I've been thinking a lot about all of the "crazy stuff" that my Dad did when we were kids.
Tell me what your Dad did, or what your husband does with your kids.

Big Love

2010-02-01T08:07:00.000-05:00

Valentines Day is another "Rite of Passage" holiday for kids. In my mind, it carries the same weight as Halloween. And we all know how much planning, and preparation, and mind-changing happens at Halloween.

Valentine's Day is all about decorating the ever important Valentine's Box. It has to be "just so". And, the even more important cards. It's always a huge decision making process for them to decide who gets which Valentine card. And when the kids get home from school on that day, it's fun to listen to them speculate as to why they got the cute kitten card from a boy that is funny, and other significant details that they notice.

My daughter decided to cut some felt "love letters" for her box this year. She stitched the L and the O, then ran out of steam. I stitched the V and the E. I "loved" how htey looked on my windowsill yesterday with the sun streaming in.

What kind of Valentine's Prep are you up to?

Fundraising Auction Project: The Big Reveal

2010-01-29T08:03:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I told you about the Auction Project for my kid's school. Today, I promised to share with you what we were going to do with the glass beads that we made with the students drawings. And, here it is:

We are going to string each student's bead onto a sterling 18" chain and add two sterling beads to finish the necklace. I was so excited to find this necklace that allows the beads to be interchanged.

I took the beads to school yesterday to show the students what Hubby was able to create from their designs. They loved seeing their creations come to life!

Just look at these examples of the student's work, and what Hubby created:

I love this student's creativity: He was the only one who designed a bead that wasn't round.

The kids were so excited to take home their order forms so that their Dad's could get a Valentine's gift for their Moms, or maybe do a little early shopping for Mother's Day. I'm hoping the orders come flying in. This was such a fun project to be a part of.

I may need to add "custom made bead necklace" to my Etsy shop!

A Sneak Peek at My Kid's School Auction Project

2010-01-28T07:37:00.003-05:00

I am so excited about this project that I have been working on for school. I just have to share a bit. My kid's school has an auction every year, where they raise funds for the school. Each child in the elementary school is asked to work on, or have a hand in, making a class project that will be auctioned off.

Some examples of things that have been made are collages made from the kid's paintings, chess sets made of clay, and painted benches. It is hard to come up with an idea that is do-able with kids of this age, and also is desireable for purchase by the general population, given the skill level that we are working with.

I took responsibility for the 4th grade project. And what I mean by that is that I came up with a plan, made arrangements, set up meetings, ordered supplies, and had my talented husband do all of the work.

I call it going with my strengths.

So we took a flameworking torch to school, plus some glass and tools. Hubby showed the kids how he works with glass, spins it, manipulates it and works with the flame to bring out certain colors, or effects.

The kids were fascinated. The teachers were pleased. It became a learning experience for everyone. We talked about all kinds of scientific topics, like how this solid could turn into a liquid under extreme temperatures, how the glass needs to cool slowly, or it will crack, and why.

Then we let each student design their own bead-with paper and pencil. They drew the bead that they would like to have created. Some of the designs were simple, and some were pretty wild.

My hubby worked diligently over the last month to produce replicas of what the kids had designed.And here is your sneak peek! Just look at these beautiful beads! I'll share what I'm going to do with them tomorrow!

Two Cleaning Products That You Should Know About

2010-01-26T08:07:00.001-05:00

I've said it time and time again, but if there is a cleaning product that promises to make the job faster, slicker, easier, more fun, I'll try it! I'm a marketers dream in this area! It doesn't take much. But, the benefit is that I've done a lot of "research" (i.e. wasted a lot of money) so, please use this to your benefit!

Here are two things that I've found that have really saved me. You should really try them. The first is a Scotch Brite cleaning towel for windows. Sinply dampen the towel with plain water and wash your windows and mirrors. Streak free and amazing every time. I love that fact that I'm not spraying chemicals, and the towel is re-useable. I got mine for less that $4 at Target. The one pictured here is yellow, but mine is blue. Look for it the next time you are out. You'll thank me time and time again.

The second product that I'd like to share are these little Carbona Stain Devils. They are on the top shelf above the laundry detergents at my grocery store. They are tiny little bottles. They are specially formulated to clean specific stains in your laundry. The bottles are marked: oil/grease, coffee, blood, grass stains...they make it easy. The one that I must have in this house is oil/grease. For whatever reason, there is always an oily stain on the front of a perfectly good shirt. When I blogged about the holes in my shirts, some of you mentioned these frustrating grease stains. Even if you've put your clothes through the dryer before you see the offending spot, just dab on a bit of the stain fighter, and throw it back into the dirty clothes hamper. These little bottles have saved more shirts that I could count.

How about you? Any cleaning product that you can't live without? I'd love to hear about it.

2010-01-22T09:19:00.001-05:00

There were 53 Hatian Orphans who landed in Pittsburgh this week. These children were cared for by 2 sisters from Pittsburgh who started an orphanage in Haiti. After the devastating earthquake, the sisters refused to leave without their kids. Through Facbook and Twitter, the sister's desperate pleas were heard, and help was sent. These children have found refuge here with families that are eager to help.

Thank you to all of the friends who have dropped things off at my house over the last few days. I am taking your donations this morning to the group that is helping these children.

Treat Girl's First Ever Give Away!

2010-01-21T01:10:00.006-05:00

You'll want to head over to see the Treat before Friday! She's hosting her very first give-away!

As you may know, The Treat Girl is one of my bloggy friends, but she's also one of my soul sisters. I was the recipient of a pair of her scrumptious mittens last year at Christmas. She's giving a pair away with some other goodies, too. Stop by an give her some comment love.

In Search Of a Simple Dinner

2010-01-20T08:27:00.000-05:00

I am is search of simple dinner ideas. I have decided that anything that requires more thought or preparation than peanut butter and jelly is just a waste of my time. My family doesn't appreciate my effort, various members of my family moan about what is being served (while others are pleased...or at least not unhappy). As I'm typing, I know what you are thinking: this is a self-fulfilling type of thing: I put in little effort, therefore none of the food is great, and therefore, my family is less than enthusiastic about dinner. But, I know I have put in tons of prep time, and there is no difference. In fact, maybe there is even more moaning, because it's something new. See, there is no incentive.

"Simple' would be an undersatetement for what I've whipped up lately. Spaghetti has been on the menu frequently. But, even then, I find the wide array of special requests staggering. Here was last night's spaghetti order:

1.) Spaghetti, no sauce, butter only. Cut up.

2.) Spaghetti, no sauce, butter and cheese. NOT cut up.

3.) Spaghetti, extra sauce, no cheese. Cut up.

4.)Spaghetti, sauce, cheese. Cut up.

5.) Spaghetti, sauce, cheese. Not cut up.

6.) Spaghetti, roasted tomatoes and red peppers, cheese, not cut up.

So, as you can see, even when it's supposed to be simple, it's not. Do you think this is some secret family conspiracy to drive me batty?

What's your easiest, and most requested dinner?

Do You Need A Kid's Birthday Gift That's Gross and Funny?

2010-01-15T08:53:00.002-05:00

My kids and I discovered these gross and funny candies from Jelly Belly. There are 2 look alike flavors for each color of jelly bean, one is good, and the other is horrible! Some of your options are: Coconut or baby wipes, Pineapple or Pencil Shavings. Oh, I'm not sure how you can get something to taste exactly like pencil shavings, but I assure you, that they have! The kids thought this was hilarious! The game involves a spinner, and an assortment of beans. The only addition I'd make would be a nearby garbage can so that you can spit out the nasty ones.

For an extra special gift, you can design your own gift tin HERE. Upload your own photo, or choose from their clip art. Add your own text and order away! I ordered several of the design below: I Hope Your Day Is Not A Stinker!

So Much of What Happens In My Life is a Mystery To Me

2010-01-13T21:55:00.001-05:00

I'm not talking about the captivating and enthralling type of mystery either. My mysteries are more like this:

Why is there peanut butter on the ceiling fan?
How did the footprints get on the windshield? And why are they upside down?
Where is my homework/book/project/money...____________? (fill in the blank)

And, today's mystery: Why is the oven smoking? My whole kitchen was filled with noxious fumes. I had made an attempt at a decent dinner, baked chicken, and somehow it all went haywire. I pulled out the chicken, and on the bottom of the oven was a smoking pile of....I'm not sure.

I had to throw the chicken away. We went vegetarian tonight. And then I scraped this oozing pile of goo out of the oven. Baffled is the only thing that I could think. I mean...what is that?

Over our smallish dinner, with the doors open wide, despite the freezing temperatures, we were talking about what happened to the rest of dinner. My family just kept looking at me and asking WHAT was in there...like I had some idea. This mystery may be closer to being solved though. Towards the end of dinner, the littlest guy fessed up that he had put a Lego Ship in there a while ago. (But, he was sure he took it out).

Have You Ever Lost a Note, or a Shopping List, Perhaps?

2010-01-12T21:54:00.001-05:00

I came across this site, called Found Magazine, which allows people to post notes, lists and photographs that they have found. The story about how the web site was born is quite funny...be sure to read the "note that started it all", it's hilarious (there is a link, above). The general idea is that if you happen to come across some crumpled paper on a city street, or an old photograph laying on the sidewalk, or a postcard in an old book that you bought at a yardsale, and it has some interesting or funny content, you are encouraged to submit it. These tiny glimpses into people's lives can be jarring, frightening, hilarious, and silly. The comments left by some of the folks who submit items are often as funny as the notes themselves. So, here's an example:

Now, if that doesn't get the message across.....

Here's one that makes me laugh, but in a very guilty way...because it shouldn't be funny...

And, another found note: I was laughing out loud at this one:

Found has a "Daily Find", so you'll want to check back often (daily?). Maybe you've found an old love letter in the pocket of a jacket that you picked up at Goodwill? How about a funny note that you found near school? Something left on your windshield in error? Be sure to submit it, we'd love to "find" it too!

Remember My Shirt with Holes?

2010-01-11T21:42:00.001-05:00

Last week I shared the great Holes in My Shirt Problem that I have. (And maybe you have too?)

I have pictured here the shirt, which was perfectly good, except it had several holes in the front...directly where the button from my jeans rubs on the kitchen counter. Last week, I shared a scarf that I made with two t-shirts and some inspiration from Alabama Chanin.

So, I decided to save my shirt. I used a template to cut a leaf pattern in the shirt, making sure to cut out the part that had the holes. I used soap as tailors chalk.

Then, I carefully cut out the leaf pattern, that I spread out a bit, and wrapped around to the back of the shirt.

After that, I laid out the shirt on a cookie sheet and carefully outlined the inner part of each leaf, using a Q-tip, with bleach. I used that same template and the same techniques with my scarf from last week.

Lastly, I chose a contrasting knit fabric to line the shirt with, and a co-ordinating embroidery floss. I hand stitched around each leaf. I love how the pattern wraps around to the back of the shirt ever so slightly. You'd never guess that this shirt was almost in my trash bin!

One Pretty Thing

2010-01-09T09:07:00.000-05:00

If you do not subscribe to this site, do so now! One Pretty Thing offers daily inspiration for the craft-minded. And, if you look today, you'll see my pretty T-Shirt Scarf! Seriously, this site needs to be on your daily go-to list.

We are Hosting Flat Stanley, AND it's a Snow Day!

2010-01-08T08:24:00.000-05:00

We are happily hosting Flat Stanley. Flat Stanley is a children's book where Stanley get flattened by a falling chalkboard. He doesn't get hurt, but his flattened shape allows him to mail himself to friend's houses and to have all kinds of adventures. Read More about this grade school project HERE.

Our Stanley is from Atlanta, where they hardly ever get snow. He's a picture of Stanley taped to a ruler.

And, here is Stanley in the snow! Stanley is 8 inches tall, and we have 7 inches of snow! I can hardly wait to share all of Stanley's adventures with my nephew who sent him to visit with us.

Hey...Look Who's on Craft Gossip!

2010-01-07T16:22:00.000-05:00

Oh, Yeah Check it out HERE!

Now, I just need a tutorial of how to take a picture of myself (that includes my head) that I like....maybe it's the lighting! HA!

Words To Live By

2010-01-07T07:51:00.001-05:00

I ran into an older family friend the other day. He is a large guy, and rather boisterous. In short, I like him. He was telling me that he was invited to 8 Parties between Christmas and New Years. Then he said: "And do you know what?....I went to them all!....Do You Know Why?" He didn't really wait for a response.

Then he laid this on me: "My Mother always used to say that you are dead a long time!"

If that statement doesn't offer some perspective, I'm not sure what would. It makes my dirty house seem so trivial, thanks for the insight!

Recylcled T-Shirt Scarf

2010-01-06T02:13:00.008-05:00

For this project, you'll need two t-shirts. I chose grey and green. They can have holes in them...we can work around that! (See my post from yesterday!)

Now, take one shirt and lay it out flat. Use a bar of soap as tailors chalk and mark out a scarf shape. Start at the shoulder of the shirt, this is the mid-point, and the skinniest part of the scarf. I just gently flared my shape from the shoulder, across the front of the shirt, and over to the opposite hip of the shirt. You can see the dotted, dash lines on the shirt...that is the outline, and the normal skid type mark of the soap. Cut the t-shirt in your scarf shape through the two layers. Then, pin this shape to the second shirt, and cut that one the same size.

On whichever side you want to be the front of the scarf, use a stencil to lay out a pattern. Simple may be best for this first project. I used the leaf pattern from my brand new Alabama Chanin Stitch Book. If there are holes in your shirt, you'll need to properly position your stencil in order to make sure that the holey part of the shirt will be discarded.

One layer of the scarf should be stenciled. For this project stencil each end. Now, cut out the pattern. Clip the fabric in the center, then work your way around the edges of the stencilled line with your scissors. Then, lay your scarf on a cookie sheet and carefully use a QTip to go around the inner edges of the fabric with bleach. Let the bleach sit for awhile, and then quickly rinse it out in the sink under running cold water. Let it dry flat. The bleach makes for a great weathered look. You could use fabric dye, or even a sharpie if it co-ordinates better with your colors.

Then use embroidery floss to sew it all together. I thought the light pink looked great with the bleached out edges. Pin the two pieces of fabric together. Start at your stenciled cut out. I made sure to begin and end my floss at the bottom of each leaf. This makes for a pretty back of the scarf.

And just look at how cute this turned out! The knit will not fray, so I just hand sewed leaving raw edges. I like how they curl and show the color of the fabric on the reverse.

You can see the pretty back side of the scarf on the right. I love the knots and chunky stitches. I hope you make one, if you do, be sure to link back!

This just may be a girls day out project. Thank You, Alabama Chanin for the inspiration!

Why Do All of My Shirts Have Holes? Do You Have Holes? Why?

2010-01-05T01:23:00.006-05:00

This has been a great topic for debate amongst girlfriends.

Nearly every shirt I own eventually develops a hole right around the bellybutton. See the above, perfectly good, nice shirt...yep, there is a series of holes right at the waist, directly in front.

I have found through extensive research, that all of you out there will now be immediately divided into two distinct groups:

1.) One that thinks I am completly bonkers, and has No Idea what I'm talking about. I get lots of looks from people in this group that clearly mean that they think I'm crazy.

2.) The other group says "Oh My Gosh, ME TOO". Very shortly after, they say "why is that?".

3.) There is no third group.....you fall into one or the other. (My extensive research has never found that anyone falls in a grey-area.)

So, moving on, to the question: "Why is that?" I have always thought that the button on my jeans rubs against the countertop right at that spot. The shirt in between gets worn away in there. But, I have met taller people that have the same problem, and surely their countertop would not hit them exactly where it hits me. A friend swears it's her kids tugging at her shirt all day.

What do you think? What group are you in?

I've got a really great project for all of these shirts with holes. Do not throw them away. Check back tomorrow.

Happy New Year- A Bit Late...I was away with no internet.

2010-01-04T08:21:00.001-05:00

I'm not looking for any sympathy here, but it is a little startling when you go to the beach, and still have to wear your winter coat.

I love the above picture of me at the beach...the L O N G shadow is a fun distortion.

My second child turned 10 while we were away. It was a huge milestone for him, and for me. This is the sunset on his birthday.

I just love the stuff that little boys talk about. I could have listened to these two all day. It's mostly about Lego's and Star Wars, but sometimes it gets into "what's fair" and other more serious topics, then it gets interesting.

Happy New Year to All. I gathered a lot of great and exciting new ideas while I was gone. I'm planning on sharing throughout this week. I can't wait!

Finally, Christmas for the Sisters

2009-12-24T09:16:00.003-05:00

After several cancellations, we finally pulled it off! You may remember that last year the "sisters" had a gift exchange. The rules were: the gift had to be hand-made, and it had to cost no more than $10 in materials, less is better! This year, we are mixing it up, and decided to make ornaments for one another. You'd think that this would be easy. NOT. It seemed exceptionally hard for some of us to settle on an idea. Several had failed attempts, and scrapped projects, I'd like to share the finished projects with you:

The Treat Girl Made this sweet framed photo of all of us. The back is Hand Stamped, AND she threw in a Thankful Jar. More on that later!

Juniper over at Hope Studios painted a light bulb, Yes, a light bulb..to make this super sweet snowman!

Girl in the Sticks looked high and low for paper that was shiny on one side to print our picture on, THEN, cafefully cut it into strips to make this beautiful ornament.

Marzipan said that she made knew right away what she was going to make. She used to make these when she was a child out of Christmas Cards that her family had received. What a nice rememberance.

I picked up these cute birdhouses from the dollar store.

Found some hemlock pine cones and birch bark in my backyard, then got the glue gun going.

With a little mod podge, glitter and a sweet sparkly bird that I found in a cute shop, my birdhouse ornaments were done!

I'm always awed by the creativity in this group. Thank You, Thank you! I will treasure these ornaments, and your friendship forever.

Get a Personal Message from The Big Guy for your Little Ones

2009-12-22T07:49:00.001-05:00

The Treat Girl told me about this site. It's pretty cute, after completing a simple questionare, a personal video message is emailed to you directly from The Big Guy. That's right, Santa himself sits down and has a little chat with your little ones. The personal details are sure to make a believer out of the skeptics out there!

Click HERE to make your own.

An Easy Snowman Christmas Ornament Tutorial

2009-12-16T21:13:00.001-05:00

Now this would make any Grandama smile. Especially if it was given to her by her sweet grandchild.

And, it would make a Mom smile if it bought a few extra minutes to wrap that last gift or bake one last batch of cookies!

Here's what you'll need: Clear Christmas Balls. Mine are Iridescent.

You'll need some puffy fabric paint to make a snowman face. The puffy paint is great because it adds an extra dimension. A Sharpie works just fine too.

Finish drawing your face, and then you are ready to stuff.

I found this easter grass that is iridescent and matched well with my ornament. I just took a small bunch and pushed it into the open end of the ornament with a pencil eraser.

I had the kids stuff theirs with mini marshmallows.

I'd add some ribbon details, and maybe even a top hat made from a toilet parer roll if I had more time.

The kids LOVE these.

If you have a fun Christmas Ornament that you've made, LINK UP to the Party over at Hope Studios!

A Trip to Marcus Studio

2009-12-15T22:09:00.000-05:00

Have you ever just discovered an artist that is just so fresh and inspiring that you just want to tell everyone about your new discovery?

And then you find out that this artist has been doing this for years. Their art is WHO THEY ARE. And that's even more impressive. They are not chasing a trend, they design and build from their soul.

Such is the story of furniture maker and artist Craig Marcus. He has a beautiful showroom in Pittsburgh's East End. He makes custom made furniture with an artist's eye. He builds tables and chairs from woods that you can't even pronounce. His work gleams in his modern and completely comfortable gallery.
Craig also expresses himself on paper. I am lucky enough to have recieved as a gift a print of one of his first paintings. I was thrilled when I saw a whole wall filled with similar paintings (see the top photo.) The print always makes me happy, and I'm so glad that he is persuing what makes him happy too.

A trip to the 6545 Gallery is sure to offer inspiration. (Call ahead for a personal appointment). CLICK HERE for directions, hours, and an opportunity to browse his latest works.

The DIY Showoff Has a Winner

2009-12-15T10:03:00.000-05:00

I'm so pleased to have contributed to the DIY Showoff's HUGE Giveaway!

We have a winner, and she's getting this ring! 2sisters2gether is sure to love this chunky, one of a kind wooden ring with a fused glass flower. The best part is that one sister won, and she's giving it to the OTHER sister! Now that is one great sister!

These rings are available in my Etsy Shop! CLICK HERE for last minute Holiday Gifts!

Nothing Says "Merry Christmas" Better than a Hot Steaming Pile of Poo

2009-12-14T07:54:00.000-05:00

I had to stop my car in the middle of the street for this one. Yes, I checked to make sure that I wasn't going to get rear ended! What a comment on the whole Christmas season, yet how festive.

I'm not sure how many of you out there would immediately recognize a manure spreader. This family really has a sense of humor. I love the effect with the lights...the green "pile" in the spreader is...well, you know. And, the most precious part is all of the lighted loop-de-loops as the "manure" gets hurled off of the back!

What an ingenious way to showcase great old farm machinery, and to SPREAD holiday cheer!

I'm Making Friends at The Library Again

2009-12-09T08:07:00.003-05:00

My kids beg me to go to the library. This is a good thing, I've made going there part of their childhood. We go there for storytime, we participate in the summer reading program, we know the librarians by name.

The thing is, when we go, my kids go crazy picking out books. The maximum number of books that you are allowed to check out at one time used to be 20. I was so pleased when they raised that number to 25. The books the kids choose are usually picture books, short stories from the children's section. And, the thing is, at least one of my kids usually reads them all! The librarians just force a smile and make comments like: "What good readers".

If you'd really like to get the stink-eye from a sweet librarian, go over your 25 book maximum, and THEN pull out one of your kid's library cards, and start loading that up! I always do feel a tinge of guilt at all of that re-sorting and re-shelving that those ladies have to do beacuse of me. But then again, maybe it's job security!

Psst...Want Some Good Make It Yourself Christmas Gift Ideas?

2009-12-04T08:07:00.000-05:00

Head on over to Hope Studios today. She's having a linky party, and there are tons of great ideas to make and do. Link one up from your collection. We all need good ideas! I'd love to try some of her Lemoncello.

Hello Lego...

2009-12-02T15:03:00.000-05:00

My guys play a lot with Lego. I have issues with keeping all of the sets together. All Moms know that if you lose a piece, (or vaccuum one, perhaps), that boyhood devistation follows. I have a friend that diligently buys dollar store bins for each set. Oh, how I wish I were that organized. I've got ripped open lego boxes, taped together with flaps agape. I wonder why we have a stray piece now and then?

My favorite part of my boys playing with lego is this: They both call the instructions "CONSTRUCTIONS". It's the perfect word for lego instructions! Now, I'm off to trademark the word and when Lego wants to buy it from me.....Hello, New Car!

Still Working on 10,000 Hours

2009-11-29T22:15:00.001-05:00

I'm reading Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell. It's just the kind of social psychology that I love.

One of the things that he talks about a lot is that most exceptional people (like Bill Gates, Steve Jobs, and many, less well known but equally successful people) have put in a minimum of 10,000 hours to perfect their expertise, their craft, their area of study.

The things that make a job fulfilling are: "autonomy, complexity, and a connection between effort and reward". I would agree wholeheartedly. The only thing wrong with the 10,000 hours that I've already put in (it takes a pretty intense 10 years) is that they are SO SCATTERED! How do you get really good at anything when you are doing 1000 things? Any Mom will tell you that her job description is as long as her forearm. Does this mean it takes 20,000 hours for a Mom to be exceptional? That sounds about right...the kids will be out of the house by then, and I'll just be hitting my stride.

Groovy, Baby.

2009-11-23T08:01:00.000-05:00

Our big family outing this weekend was to visit a new store to the area: Five Below. It's sort of like a dollar store, except, well, everything is $5 or less. A fun jaunt, but I wished that I had gone alone, for a few reasons.

1.) I could have gotten some great stocking stuffers in there if my kids hadn't gone aisle to ailse, memorizing all of the contents of the store.

2.) My 5th child, my husband, came along, and he's easily swayed by the kid's percieved needs.

So that's how we ended up with a rainbow of lava lamps sitting on the kitchen counter. Five of them, one for each kid and one for THE "kid". So, 25 dollars later, I now have a permanent lava lamp collection on my counter. Although each was purchased individually, and each lamp looks groovy individually, collectively, they are a show stopper. So, it was decided by the owners that the collection must remain intact. To move the collection to a kid's room would surely cause anarchy. The "It's Not Fair"s are ringing in my head already. So, neutral turf is the kitchen counter. To be equally enjoyed by all.

Now, I'm pretty groovy and all, but I'm not sure this really fits with my decor. My question is this: I know you all have beautiful homes, and very well co-ordinated interiors. What do you do when a rainbow of lava lamps throws you a curve?

The Carrot Cake Emergency

2009-11-20T07:53:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure how I got so lucky. I think about it alot. I think that to a great extent, you decide that you are blessed, and then you will be. Well, I am lucky, and blessed, and fortunate, I am sure of that.

I have been under some larger than normal amounts of stress and a great deal of waffling indecision in my life lately, and I must have seemed like I was right on the edge. My Beautiful girlfriends surprized me with a full-on Carrot Cake Emergency Intervention. They all know that Carrot Cake is my favorite, and that even if I haven't eaten anything for two days, I'd force down some delicious, moist, too good to be true carrot cake.

To have such love and strength on my side makes it easier for me to make the big decisions. My girlfriends all teach me so much. In times of trouble and unrest, the best of them rally around with Carrot Cake. And, for that, I am ever so grateful.

Hey- Let's Have a Picnik!

2009-11-18T09:41:00.000-05:00

I know, you are thinking "It's November, and Thankgiving..she wants us to go out and have lunch at the park...what is she thinking?". Not that kind of Picnic, silly! I'm talking about http://www.picnik.com/ : the photo editing site.

As we are all scrambling to upload and order our photo Holiday cards, I'm here to tell you about this great site. In addition to many fun photo effects, it has a shine-be-gone button, a blemish removal option, a teeth whitener, an eylash highlight, an eye color enhancer, it even has a "Slenderize" feature! Yeah, that's right, after having a little too much turkey at Thanksgiving, just hit the "Slenderize" button, and you've lost 5 lbs. Couldn't be easier.

I made the above collage in a few minutes. I love the variety of font options. Many of the features are FREE, but to have access to an even larger library of photo editing , they have a few very inexpensive options.

Picnik will allow you to save photos after editing to many different sites (your computer, flickr, photbucket, etc.) So, you can order those cards in no time.

If you Picnik, invite me!