Homemaker

Etsy Showcase

2010-11-08T19:51:00.000-08:00

As I mentioned in my last post, I have a very talented family. We can all do something! I really wish we could live closer so we could be creative together. I must say I am the main problem in this equation due to the fact I moved to New Mexico ( but I feel I am still a Texan at heart!). Anyways I want to show you some of what my sister can do and my sister in law. My sister just opened an etsy shop. She makes these adorable twinkle toe shoes at a great price!

She also makes the most beautiful flowers! You may have seen them in some previous posts with my daughter modeling them.

You should check out the Sassy Goose Boutique and tell her I sent you!

I also wanted to share with you the talents of my sister in law. She opened her etsy shop last year. She makes several different items. I just love her Christmas ornaments. They look stunning on the tree sparkling in the Christmas lights.

She also makes capes, and boutique children's clothes like this cute pillowcase dress on my niece.

You can find some unique Christmas gifts at Pickled Peppers.

Happy Birthday to Me!!!- sewing room reveal

2010-11-06T20:51:00.000-07:00

Today is my birthday, and as each year I get older and my life changes, I find I treat it as just as any other day. What is amazing is how my family still recognizes it and finds it important to celebrate me and my life. My parents live about 14 hours away and drove to see me for my birthday! That alone is a wonderful present but if you know my parents that is not enough. My dad made this beautiful bench for me made from my crib I had as a baby. My dad is a very talented carpenter and if you would like to see more of his projects you can check out his blog.

It has a hinged seat for storage too! I love it and so happy with the heirloom that I will be able to pass down and the stories it will tell.

My parents were not done with my birthday yet! I showed them my workroom.

This is the sewing area.

This is my cutting table and ribbon organizer.

This would just not do in their eyes or mine either- it was extra messy when they saw it! So we hit the ReStore (thrift store for building supplies ). Dad and Mom put together my room in about a day and a half. My new table is a door and my shelves are closet doors and my ribbon organizer is made from FOAM BOARD!!

I was given a room that inspires me and makes me want to create. I love my room and feel the need to go in and look at it to make sure it is real. I have had a wonderful birthday!!!

I know I am going to get a lot of questions about this ribbon organizer so let me tell you about it real quick. My dad made these with 5 foam boards. He cut them to make the shelves and sides and just hot glued them together. It did take a couple of hours but wow so worth it in my eyes! He hot glued some washers at the top and screwed a screw in it to hang it on the wall. And yes, it can hold it all because the ribbon is so light. What can I say but my family is pretty creative.

Major League Baseball inspired Neck Rope

2010-10-21T15:12:00.000-07:00

So the kids and I were getting ready to go. I had my daughter all dressed up in her "Olivia" outfit.

My son did not like the fact, that his sister had all this flair and he did not. He wanted to wear a necklace too but I just could not allow him to wear one of his sister's girly necklace. What else is a mother to do than make him his own MLB inspired neck rope. I know these are a little different but the look is the same- in my opinion.
Quick Steps to Making your own Neck Rope
1. Cut 3 stripes of jersey knit in the colors you want. ( you can even cut up your own t shirts)
2. stack the ends and stitch it to keep it still and secure.
3. put that end in your mouth 8) to hold still and braid
4. once it is 15 in. long stitch the other end to secure.
5. then i made a tube covering. i just folded over a piece of jersey knit and stitched to make like a one inch tube. stick the braided rope through the tube.
6. Stitch the braided rope together to make a circle and use the tube to cover stitching.

THIS NECKLACE JUST STRETCHES OVER YOUR HEAD.
Sorry I am so sporadic in my posts. Life just gets so busy- I am sure you understand. On a parting note, I have been making costumes for a local business and here is one set I did.

I just love this picture and had to share it with you. Have a great day!

Cowboy and Cowgirl Birthday Party Highlights

2010-09-26T18:07:00.000-07:00

Well my babies turned 3 yesterday and I wanted to share some of the pictures.

I was thrilled when I found out the popular VBS theme this year was cowboy. I was able to find great items on clearance at hobby lobby that were cowboy themed. My mom found the cute big wall cutouts at oriental trading. She also had bandana and denim table cloths for me to borrow. I think the party turned out great and my kids had a lot of fun!

Cheer OVERLOAD and Zipper Tutorial

2010-09-21T16:43:00.000-07:00

I mentioned earlier that I had an order cheerleading costumes- 21 to be exact! I used a simplicity dress pattern and changed it a bit. After finishing this sample, I was not quite happy with it so I changed patterns and took some useful comment advice for the sizing. I used New Look pattern 6957

This pattern gave a better finish and I used the size 1 for the 2T size, size 2 for the 3T size and the size 3 for the 4T size. I added length for the bodice too.

I cranked these out in 8 days but I will tell you I am tired of making them for now. They will be embroidered with the school emblem of sorts. Now on with the tutorial.

I have been afraid of zippers for some unknown reason- I guess because it has been so long since I put one in. I will show you how I did it for those also afraid but this may not be perfect technique but it is what I did.

I had the dress done except for the zipper. I then basted (longest stitch with no back stitiching) the seam where the zipper would be going leaving plenty of room to iron open and sew on the zipper. The zipper I was using was 12 in. so i basted about 13 in. and regular stitch down the rest of the seam.

Then press open.

Then I pinned the zipper on with right side down and lining up the seam with zipper teeth.

You should probably use more pins than I did. Then be sure to put on your zipper foot. This is what mine looks like yours should be somewhat similar. This helps you stitch close to the zipper teeth.

Then stitch around the zipper.

I then seam ripped open the seam.

Once this was done, I cut the excess top of zipper and heat sealed it with some flame.

Then I tacked down the top.

After 21 of these I am feeling a bit more confident about zippers.

Sunday Football Showcase

2010-09-12T06:19:00.000-07:00

We took our kids to the NMSU football game last night. I had to make them something special to wear for the game. I wanted to share how I made my son's shirt.

I started with the football. I used the steam to seam but heat bond would be great too. According to steam to seam you can just iron it and it is permanent so they say you don't have to sew it. I prefer to just to ensure durability. I traced the football shape on the paper cut it out and ironed it on some textured brown felt. I cut it out and peeled the backing off and ironed on the shirt. Then I did a straight stitch around the football. I cut some crimson fabric stips and put on the football and stitched into place. For the stitching of the white lacing part of the football- I drew where I wanted it with chalk.

Then I stitched a tight zig zag stitch across the football then did the stripes that go vertically on the top.

For the nubers you need to draw your numbers on the reverse so they are correct when you iron them on.

I ironed the numbers on and just did a straight stitch around the numbers. Here is the finished project which took about 30 min.

Deep Thoughts!!- (well not too deep)

2010-09-11T20:30:00.000-07:00

I was outside this morning with the kids thinking about my blog and what I wanted to share next. As I am thinking this, I was realizing how funny my blog really is. In a blog, I only share the best of what I am, however that is not who I am. I make mistakes in crafting, I am not always the best mom or wife, I am constantly not being the godly woman God wants me to be! I am also a horrible friend most of the time. I am the type of friend who never calls- it is not because I don't care -it's because i don't like talking on the phone. I just thought I should share that with you. I don't want anyone to think I am perfect or assume that I think am- if you really know me that would have NEVER crossed your mind (Wink).

Okay digging my way out of my deep thoughts, I want to share the good things I did as a mom this week. I feel if I document them from time to time it might help me be a better mom as I reflect on our experiences.
1. Drew a track on the driveway for the kids that included a Mcdonalds, home, crosswalk, stoplight and stop sign.

They loved it and rode for hours yesterday and today.

2. Had a cooking day. We made snickerdoodles. I pulled the coffee table in the kitchen so they could stand at the counter at the same time. They were yummy and the kids loved making them.

3. My husband and I took them to the NMSU Aggie game and made it to half time.

I will show you thier outfits tomorrow!!

Now on the down side my kids fought alittle bit- it happens to us all!

Sometimes its best to just walk away and take a moment like my dog did here.

Easy Cheer Costume

2010-09-10T16:21:00.000-07:00

I was asked to make some toddler sized cheerleader uniforms. I searched for what would be the easiest and fastest way for me to make them. I ended up using this pattern.

I made this sample using the size 3. I added about 1 1/5 in. to the bodice pieces and shortened the skirt pattern pieces. When it was time to attatch the skirt I decided to pleat the skirt to give it that cheerleading look.

I just pinned it to fit and eye-balled my pleats. Once I had it pinned I stitched it into place.

I added a white stripe at the bottom and a white chest stripe so it could be embroidered with the team name.

This pattern was easy to adapt, however it ran big as usual !! This was supposed to be a size 3 but will now be a 4. Do you have that problem when using patterns?!? - it is quite frustrating. Have a great weekend!

Nap Mats

2010-08-25T17:11:00.000-07:00

So I was in El Paso dropping off some more clothes to "The Pink Cottage", when a woman came in requesting a nap mat. She had looked at all the children's boutiques in town with no success. The owner turned to me with a custom order for 3 nap mats- which I HAVE NEVER MADE BEFORE! I wasn't in complete fear due to the fact I remembered seeing a tutorial on it through craftster here. I used it as my starting point.

She has a great tutorial. I used the dimensions and it really helped me understand how I might put one together. The customer had a similar one and wanted it like her old one. Instead of using a removable foam pad I used extra loft batting and doubled it. I sewed it into the mat. I also used fleece for the blanket and put a binding around it. To finish off the blanket I embroidered the name of the little girl on it. If I make any more I would make the strap a little different.

I would recommend this tutorial. The first mat took me about 3 hours but i cut that time in half by the third mat.

Help!

2010-08-17T21:32:00.000-07:00

So I want to shirr a few outfits and I have 2 sewing machines but neither quite do the job. I have a singer futura- it doesn't put much gather at all- i looked at prudent baby's tute on it and it helped a little but still did not quite work right. I have a bernina record 830 and it gathers beautifully but there is no elasticity in the garment once I am done.

If you have any tips for me to try- i would love to hear them.

Very Frustrated,

Meal Plan Monday is BACK!!

2010-08-16T06:26:00.000-07:00

With school back in session, I need to get back to my schedules. So here is what I have planned this week.
Monday: Cowboy Casserole A.K.A. tatertot casserole
Tuesday: Green Chile Burritos - which is this recipe but I am using beef rather than ham
Wednesday: Grilled Pork Chops, rice, squash- stocked up on Pork chops last week when it was buy one get one free.
Thursday: Hamburger Noodle bake- taste of home sept. 2010
Friday- Strambolli
Sat- Rellenos- this recipe
I thought I would try these from taste of home:

Crisscross Apple Crowns

this is how I will make them to meet our tastes:

1 2/3 C chopped peeled tart apples

1/3 C chopped Pecans

1/4 C sugar 1/4 C splenda mixed and divided

2T flour

2cinnamon, divided

dash of salt1pkg lg. refrigerated flaky biscuits

2 t butter, melt

In a large micro-safe bowl, combine apples, pecans, 3 T sugar mix, flour, 3/4 t cinnamon and salt. Micro 2-3 min or until almost tender. Flatten each biscuit into 5 in. circle. Combine remaining sugar mix and cinnamon;sprinkle a routeaspoonful of sugar mixture over each.Top each with 1/4 C apple mix. Brig up edges to close and pinch edges to seal.

Place seam down in ungreased muffin cups. Brush tops with butter; sprinkle with remaining sugar mix. with a sharp knife cut an X in the top of each.

Bake at 350 for 18-22 min. cool for 5 min. before removing from pan to wire rack.

Hope ya'll have a wonderful week!

Sunday Show- Off

2010-08-15T20:25:00.000-07:00

I have been so busy sewing this summer. I was at Jo-Anns this afternoon and while waiting to have my fabric cut, I was adding up my average sewing hours in a week. I could not believe it but it is close to 40 hours. My etsy shop is small now so that I can make items for The Pink Cottage in El Paso. I also need to start preparing for the Fair on the Square in Huntsville, and an Open House in El Paso. Then there is the occasional custom orders from around town. However, with the summer at an end and my husband going back to work, my sewing hours will be cut.

With all that sewing, I make so many clothes. It is neat to think about all the little girls and boys wearing my creations all over the United States and for most they are special occasions like birthdays, family reunions, vacations, and holidays.

Here are some of the items I made this past week:

If you want to keep up with what I am making, the best place is probably is on my facebook page. That is where I am posting my new items for now. Also become a fan for a chance to win a pillowcase dress and matching bow of your choice. The 500th fan and the friend that suggested the 500th fan will win a set each.

Another Reason to LOVE Jo-Anns

2010-08-15T12:45:00.000-07:00

This weekend Jo- Ann's is giving a 20% discount to teachers. I could not pass this up so I took my husband and his school I.D and check stub and rushed on over. I had my 40% off coupon to use too. When I checked out I found out we needed to sign up to get the teacher rewards card which will give me 15% off my total purchase EVERY TIME!! How awesome is that! So if this can apply to you don't miss out on the savings.

"On the Cuff"

2010-08-13T17:01:00.000-07:00

So I was working on a new outfit today and decided to add a cuff to a pair of pants. I wanted to share how I did it. I think it turned out great and adds flare to boring pants.

Here is how I made them.

I took the pattern and cut a small amount of the brown zebra print to fit the bottom of the pattern. If you want to flip it up on the bottom you will want to add an inch to an inch and half at the bottom depending in how much of a cuff you want.

Go ahead and get the pants made just not hemmed at the bottom. I took the cuff part and stitched th inside seam with right sides together.

Then turn up 1/4 " or so and press.

Then pin with wrong sides together and line the seams up.

Then stitch at hem.

Then I stitched up the seam, opposite side, front center and back. I did this to keep it in place.

That's it. Now here is the question for you. I showed my husband my creation and he did not feel it was boy enough. He helps me quite a bit with my sewing creations. He lets me know if it is too much, not enough and someone to bounce ideas off of. I think this is cute for a little baby boy. He says it should be for a girl. what do you think??

Birthday Shirt

2010-08-11T11:23:00.000-07:00

The babies turn 3 in September so I am trying to get a jump on some of the preparations. I wanted to make the kids an outfit for our theme which is "Cowboys & Cowgirls". I found this post from Cheri at I am Momma - Hear me Roar. I never forgot it. I just haven't had time to make one so here it is to make a perfict birthday shirt for my son. THANKS CHERI!!

Here was my process. You can also check Cheri's instructions and see her beautiful shirts too.

I bought this super cute fabri from Karamat

This fabric is from I wanna be a cowboy collection by Riley Blake. I love designer fabric but never have the money to spend on it. Tammy from Karamat has good prices for desinger fabric and I decided to splurge a little for thier birthdays. I made three of these shirts with one fat quarter.

Lay your polo out and trace the shape out on heat bond.

I used a plate to help with the yoke part of it. Once you have traced the back and front yokes, iron it on the wrong side of fabric. Then cut out the yokes, place on shirt and do any trimming to make it fit best. Peel backing off and iron down.

Next I sewed a straight stitch around the yoke. I like the frayed edges so this worked perfectly.

My shirt looked sloppy at the shoulders so I used Cheri's suggestion to cover this and it gives it a nice finished look. I used some brown swiss dot fabric ironed into a little tube and stitched it at the shoulders.

Then I put on my son who was thrilled with his BIRTHDAY SHIRT.

SOO CUTE!!

Help my Friend

2010-08-05T16:04:00.000-07:00

Hi all, hope you are having a wonderful week. I wanted to share a friend with you. This is Jenna.

"We are very excited to announce that we are in the early stages of adopting a baby! We have been so blessed with 2 beautiful and healthy boys, and we really feel God leading us to give a safe and happy home to a child who otherwise would not have one. The Lord has put the country of Ethiopia on our hearts, where they currently have around 5 million orphans. We have a long and challenging journey ahead of us and pray that you will support us in any way you can. Please keep our family, including the child that we are waiting for, in your prayers"

She is working hard to raise money to adopt a baby girl from Ethiopia. She created this blog to devote to raising money. She has auctions going on there for some fun items. Be sure to stop by to win some of these goodies.

You know I am a sucker for yellow so I am going to have to bid on the yellow cards;) I will be donating an Minnie Mouse outfit and doing a short tutorial to go with it so look for that and be sure to bid on it. Every little bit helps this family. Thanks!

Vintage Curtain Dress

2010-08-02T22:01:00.000-07:00

I actually made this dress this past spring for a friend's daughter. She found a curtain she wanted to me to make a dress with. I decided to pair this sheer vintage curtain with a light blue cotton.

I layered this sheer curtain on top of the blue fabric. I used the complete width of the fabric for the skirt of the dress. I hemmed the blue layer and then stitched the two pieces together.

I stitched a zig zag stitch over fishing line for easy gathering. I pinned the skirt in the chest band. The chest band was1.5 in. larger than chest measurement. I got this measurement from Dana from MADE.

I cut the fabric 8 in x chest measurement +1.5 in. sewn together to make a tube and then ironed in half with ends ironed under as well (shown above).

Next I pinned the skirt in the chest band and gathered by pulling the fishing line. I pinned some more and then stitched in place.

Now it is time for the straps.

My straps are probably about 18in. long. I made tubes and turned right side out, pressed and top stitched. Then I pinned to the chest band.

sew on and wear!

I AM HAVING A FAN GIVEAWAY: Help me reach 500 fans. Just suggest this page to your friends the 500th fan as well as the friend that suggested the 500th fan will get the pillowcase dress OF THEIR CHOICE and a matching bow EACH

Here is the link to my fan page: Fancy Pants by Jamee

Delicious French Toast!

2010-07-13T09:25:00.000-07:00

I have been MIA but I am here for now. I wanted to share this delicious recipe I tried this morning. I have tried other french toast recipes but am discusted by its soggy texture. This recipe was liked by all in my family including my 2 two year olds. It has taken me awhile to like french toast and now as I make it I think of my wonderful dad. Don't you hate how you treated your parents when you were a teenager! My dad made me french toast one morning for my birthday before I went to school and me being an idiot I got mad at my dad for making me something that was not my favorite. He loves me so much and always does so much for me and I never appreciated him enough! I am sorry dad for being an annoying, rude teenager at times! I love you.

Okay here is the recipe!

Ingredients

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup milk

1 pinch salt

3 eggs

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon white sugar

12 thick slices bread- I used leftover French Bread from last night

Directions

1.Measure flour into a large mixing bowl. Slowly whisk in the milk. Whisk in the salt, eggs, cinnamon, vanilla extract and sugar until smooth.

2.Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium heat.

3.Soak bread slices in mixture until saturated. Cook bread on each side until golden brown. Serve hot.

*this recipe is from allrecipes

Showcase Sunday

2010-07-04T18:01:00.000-07:00

Recently I signed up to be a vendor at The Pink Cottage in El Paso. It is an absolutely charming boutique/gallery with very talented crafters and artists! To prepare for this opportunity I had to finish 40 pieces for my spot. I also wanted to be sure to think about the customers that might shop at The Pink Cottage. I decided to make UTEP Miner apparel and patriotic/ military apparel due to the fact Ft. Bliss and UTEP are a major part of El Paso. I made some bandanna pillowcase dresses in blue with orange ties and I made these Army brat clothes.

I made this a tie on halter with the ruffled capri pants. This set is priced at 36.00

I had a hard time embroidering "Army brat" on a 6 month size so one of my facebook fans suggested this.

I am working on a boy army set but as you most likely know boy clothes are so much harder to be creative with. I want to ask you to please "like" me on facebook. Just search fancypantsbyjamee and click "like". I am trying to reach 500 fans.

here is the link to my facebook page fancy pants by jamee

Have a wonderful 4th of July and something to think about as you look at firecrackers tonight. The firecrackers are to remind us of "the bombs bursting in air"- remember all those who fought for this country and preserve what they fought for

Pillowcase Diaper Bag

2010-06-28T15:15:00.000-07:00

I found this vintage hand embroidered pillowcase awhile back. I wasn't quite sure what I was going to do with it but as soon as Fawnda announced the new ingredient for the iron crafter competition I new exactly what I wanted to do. I made this gem! I was thinking of it more as a purse but once I finished it I felt it looked more like a cute diaper bag. Now on with the tutorial.
I used the pillowcase shape to make a pattern for the base of the purse.
1. I cut 2 pieces of the pink fabric 20x 14 in. - Sew right sides together on all sides but leave the top open. (the top is one of the long sides)

2. I cut the pillowcase so I could use the embroidered side and the other side for the interior lining of the bag. I cut the interior lining aprox. 20 in. and insert it in the base with wrong sides together. I then stuck my hand in the purse to make a fold like so.

I folded it to the bottom and pinned in place. Then I stitched into place.

Then I stitched the the lining and outside of bag into place so that it would be easier to work with.

3. Now lets work on the skirt of the bag. I am using about 8 in. of the end of the pillowcase for this part. I took the trim off the end of the pillowcase because it was all torn up and added some different trim.

4. Stitch skirt on the bag. Then you can stitch a gathering stitch or just sew a large zig zag over fishing line for easy gathering. Now it is ready for the opening and straps of the bag.

5. For the opening I cut 4- 13x 5in. and had a 1"x 45" strip serged for the strap.

6. cut the strap in half to make the two handles.

7. lay the one piece face up and pin the straps into place and place another piece face down.

8. Stitch the handle side with the right sides are togther. You will do this for both handles

9. Then open it up and sew the two pieces together at sides (right sides together).

10. Fold with right side out and turn under 1/4in. on each side and gather bag, pin in place and stitch.

I entered this craft in the

Could you Help me reach 500 fans. Just like fancypantsbyjamee on facebook. The 500th fan as well as the friend that suggested the 500th fan will get the pillowcase dress OF THEIR CHOICE and a matching bow EACH. THANKS SO MUCH!!

Yummy Goodness Burritos

2010-06-21T20:02:00.000-07:00

I tried a new recipe tonight and you must try it. I got it from allrecipes.com. It was one of the daily recipes.

Breakfast Enchiladas but really I think of them more of burritos since they use flour tortillas

Ingredients

1 (16 ounce) package frozen hash brown potatoes

1 cup diced cooked ham

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 (4.5 ounce) can diced green chile peppers

1 1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese, divided

1 (28 ounce) can green chile enchilada sauce

8 (10 inch) flour tortillas

Directions

1.Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

2.Brown hash browns and ham in 1 tablespoon of oil in a medium skillet over medium high heat. Stir in diced green chilies and 1/2 cup of Cheddar cheese. Cook until cheese has melted.

3.Coat the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish with a small amount of enchilada sauce. Dip each tortilla in remaining sauce, and fill with potato-ham mixture. Roll each as tightly as possible and place in the baking dish, seam side down. Top with remaining sauce and cheese, and cover with tin foil.

4.Bake, covered, in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until lightly browned on top. Serve immediately.

I put some scrambled eggs in the mix. This recipe reminds me of a delicious breakfast burrito I used to order at the Sunset Grill in the Sonoma Ranch Golf Course Clubhouse. I hope you try it out.

Bluebonnets Father's Day Present

2010-06-19T06:38:00.000-07:00

Our family are fans of Cross Canadian Ragweed. Cody Canada wrote a beautiful song called "Bluebonnets" for his son. It is a favorite so I chose to make a father's day present based on that song. Here is what I did:
I bought a wall decor picture at hobby Lobby at half price so I paid $10 for this.

It is pretty as is but I want it to say something else. I was hoping I could just flip the mat over but the paper was glued to the mat. So I will just paint over it.

After I painted 2 coats, I added the letter stickers and pictures to get this gem.

I hope you will listen to this song, it is so sweet. The link I gave is from youtube and it was a soundcheck before a concert. If you have not heard this band you really are missing out. Have a great father's day weekend.

Tuesday To-Do

2010-06-15T07:03:00.000-07:00

So many crafts , So little time!
First up on my to-do list this week is the Dollar Tree Jewelry Organizer from Courtney over at Redheads Craft More Fun

She made these from some cork-boards she found at the Dollar Tree- GENIUS!!

Number 2 is solving several of my problems! It is a Ribbon organizer from Diane at In My Own Style. If you remember, I tried my ribbon organizer on a gun rack which did not make my husband too happy. This would be a great solution for that and also in reading this post it solved another problem I was thinking about. I think I will use the S hook and chain in my booth at the farmer's market. I can hang it from my tent and get more hanging space for my clothes!! So be sure to check out how she made this.

Number 3 Craft is just such a cute keepsake. Kim over at A Girl and A Glue Gun made fingerprint pendants that turned out beautiful! Check it out and make some yourself.

Number 4 is from Ready-Set-Create. She made these adorable necklace pendants. I am thinking this would be a fun MOPS craft for next year.

Number 5 is from Pearls, Handcuffs, and Happy Hour. She gave a mirror an excellent makeover. The hard part now will be trying to find a beautiful mirror to work with ! I love how this came out.

Number 6 is from Junk Style. I am quite envious of her Laundry Room that she remodeled. She also used an old door for a coat rack that is just perfect in her new room.

Take the seventh day and rest from all your crafting. Thanks for all ya'lls wonderful crafts.

Father's Day Texas Washer Set

2010-06-14T05:57:00.000-07:00

Father's Day is fast approaching but I am ahead of the game when it came to my father's present. I decided to make my dad some Texas Washers for when he will be playing in a washer tournament in Smackover, Arkansas this coming weekend. Every year my family gets together during "Oil Town" weekend for a family reunion. One of the activities they do is play washers. There are different variations of this game. Some through the washers in a hole in the ground or a pvc in te ground, some have 1 hole, 3 hole, or 5 hole boards. Some boards are flat and some are slanted. We play on 5 hole slanted boards. The ones we use are not carpeted and no back board. Now on with the washers!!
To start I found a Texas Flag and printed it out. Then I traced the washer out on the Texas.

I then cut it out and mod podged it on top of the washer. I felt Dad needed a handy dandy case to put his washers in too. I found this little box at hobby lobby. I dry brushed it with red craft paint.

Finally I mod podged a Texas on the top.

Once this was dry, it was ready for the washers. I went ahead and made an extra so my mom could make a necklace out of one.

Showcase Sunday

2010-06-13T21:00:00.000-07:00

Sorry I have been absent from my blog these past couple of weeks. I have been busy getting ready for the farmer's market. I went last summer just about every Saturday. I really enjoy the atmosphere out there. There are so many talented crafters in our area. At the Las Cruces farmer's market you will find jewelry, artists, photogrophers, seamstresses, farmers, rock hounds, leather and word craftsmen and women, stain glass artists, metal work, candle and soap makers, entertainers and of course kettle corn and other food vendors. In fact the human society even comes out to adopt out pets. Our farmer's market is about 5 blocks of vendors. If you are ever in the area come out and support our local farmers and crafters. We are open Wed and Sat. form 8-12:30.

I still have plenty of work to do but will try to keep up with my crafts and posts about them. Now I would like to show off my newest addition to my Etsy shop.

I bought this fabric last year and I wanted to do something with it. I had the top imagined in my head and it came out just the way I pictured the first time- soo happy with it. You will definitely see me make more items in this design. I have also wanted to make some puffy shorts but thought I would just put elastic in the legs but actually found a McCall's pattern for some. I liked the pattern but it ran big so if you make it make it one size smaller. I wanted to have a shirt for my son but was not happy with it so at this time I just offer the shorts.

I will be adding some new tutorials this week and plan on doing my Tuesday To-Do List so be sure to check back!! Have a great week.

Headband Holder Tutorial

2010-06-07T17:02:00.000-07:00

I have returned to our local farmer's market. I will have to share pictures soon so you can see all the wonderful crafters. I sell children's clothes and accessories. In setting up my booth I came across several display needs I need to work on. I am planning on making some headbands to sell, so I need a way to display them. Here is what I made.

I started with this:

I used an empty oatmeal tub for my base. I measured the height of th carton.

It measured 9 1/4" so I marked that on the back of my self adhesive 12x12" scrapbook paper I found at Hobby Lobby.

Then I cut off the excess. You will need two sheets to make it fit around the oatmeal carton. I took the backing off the scrapbook paper and applied it carefully and slowly to prevent bubbles.

This is pretty basic but has lots of potential. You could personalize it, decorate the top, use the carton to store bows inside- lots of possiblities. I still need to work on these headbands and make a sign to come out the top of the lid for my price.

Please don't forget to vote for your favorite recycled tin project over at fireflies and jellybeans for the iron crafter. I am #10 tin lid necklace.

VOTE FOR ME!!

2010-06-06T15:12:00.000-07:00

I entered this competition with this submission

I have made it to the top ten and now i need votes to win the competiton. You just need to click on the iron crafter button to find the competion and the voting poll so you can vote for your favorite craft using recycled cans. thanks!

Guest Post: Crafting with Jamee at "Homemaker"- Raggy Washer Necklace Tutorial

2010-06-03T06:45:00.000-07:00

Guest Post: Crafting with Jamee at "Homemaker"- Raggy Washer Necklace Tutorial
See how I made this by heading over to the link above!

Thanks to Sarah over at Harrigan Howdy for letting me guest post.

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/mls_wizard2_1.php?sid=54488-93-65AE20D263D2C415B1D9C2C078173276#ixzz0gxmXqdUK

Recycled Can Lid Necklace

2010-05-31T07:03:00.000-07:00

Well I have this idea and another in my head for awhile, so when Fawnda from Fireflies and Jellybeans announced a competition for the Iron Crafter using recyced cans, I knew I must enter.

Lets get started!!
First I took the lids off using a borrowed pampered chef can opener. They take the complete lid off leaving no sharp edges.

Next I make a hole at the top so I could turn it into a necklace.

Then I planned how I wanted to decorate the inside of the lid. I thought of it like I was scrapbooking. Then I put the base paper which was a brown paper with pink dots. I glued it all down with mod podge. I carefully made the hole in my paper to match the lid and re-inserted the nail to keep the hole clear. I put judkins diamond glaze on top and let dry. When it is dry remove the nail and string and bead. If you need instructions on making a necklace check out this previous post for a Necklace Tutorial

I really wanted to have another entry for this competition but I doubt I will have the time. Maybe it will be a future post.

Showcase Sunday

2010-05-29T21:22:00.000-07:00

Well my shop is slowly creeping in the google shopping searches. As I have said in previous posts, I had a bug that affected my shop. I was not the only shop affected by this either. I found myself spending hours in the forums looking for answers and support and while I was there I met Lori from Kidnaround Creations. She has an amaizing etsy shop.

I really hope you will go check her out! She has everything from crayon rolls to puppets and games. Her shop is a perfect place to shop for birthdays or just a fun gift for a the special child in your life. I picked a few favorites to show you.

Kidnaroundcreations has amazing prices that these precious gifts are hard to pass up.

For my showcase I chose my pirate outfit. I made this for the first time last summer and I must say my son is such a cute model. It is hard to believe how fast time flies! This set is only $22.00

boutique-boy-pirate-skull-and-cross-bones Short Set

Order this - this week and get free shipping. Just convo me before purchase and I will adjust the listing for you. (ends June 5)

Shaka Shake Tutorial

2010-05-29T12:21:00.000-07:00

I have been meaning to put this up for awhile but time always gets away from me. This is a great craft to re-purpose those Easter eggs and to make a musical instrument for your child or they can make it themselves. My daughter calls it a shaka shake so that is what I am calling it. To start you need rice, egg, tissue paper, brush, tape, and mod podge.

Go ahead and fix yourself a drink too!

I put about 1/8 cup of rice in the egg.

Then tape close. The first time I did this craft, I made it with my MOPS group. I told them to use the mod podge to seal the egg shut and I thought that would hold up but my kids busted theirs open by the end of the day. So go ahead and tape it.

Then you will paint the egg with mod podge and begin putting tissue squares on top.

You will also paint some mod podge on top of your tissue layer to seal it.

Once it is completely covered with tissue and mod podge, let it dry and the best place to put it that I found is on freezer paper because it doesn't really stick to the wax side when drying. When it is dry it is ready to

SHAKA - SHAKE

ENJOY!

And the Winner of Washer Necklace is....

2010-05-29T11:55:00.000-07:00

Dawn said...

I love the 2nd one in on the left and the zebra one!!!

I'm a follower now!
Congrats Dawn I will be contacting you to get your address!

Question???

2010-05-26T12:48:00.001-07:00

Where do you find the best deal on designer fabric?
Thanks for any suggestions you have

To Do Tuesday

2010-05-25T19:55:00.000-07:00

So I have already been busy on some of my to-do list even though I have a million other projects I am in the middle of. First up I have completed and will blog about later.

1. This recycle craft brought to you by Krafty Mum is just awesome. I have plenty of scrap fabric and empty ribbon spools. VERY CREATIVE! Be sure to check out how she made these beauties.

2. Becky over at Clean Mama is my kind of woman! She is quite organized which is what I strive to be. She has a great tip for gardening and I just love how she mixed different flowers in this pot.

You can see more about her tips Here

But that is not all she also has a wonderful art project to go along with planting and some favorite picture books. Check this link for the plan.

3. Fawnda has a crafty blog that I am sure you have heard of called Fireflies and Jellybeans. This post she shows you how to put together a water table-PERFECT for these hot days.

4. This next item on my to-do list is more of a dream than an actual "to-do" I am not good at decorating cakes. I can envision it but the follow through is no where close to what I have in mind. I have already told my sister in law (who is good at it) that will be her job when birthdays come along. Anyways, Kalleen over At Second Street made this AMAZING cake. I love the colors and all the details she put on it and the cool thing was her daughter was the one who designed it. I just don't know if I could eat it- it is just too pretty.

5. Sammy and Ruth have a great blog over at Scraps N' Strings. They have great post on how to make these magnetic boards. I am thinking about our traveling over the summer and how much we need these for some care entertainment.

6. This last project really is a must for me. It is a Toddler Sewing Basket. I am sewing quite a bit and my kiddos desperately want to sew and help. This will not only let them feel like they are a part of my work but also is wonderful for their fine motor skills. This project is from My Mommy Makes It

Take the 7th day to REST!

Be sure to enter my follower giveaway but of course if you don't win you can always make it yourself.

Washer Jewelry Tutorial and Giveaway ENDS Friday

Showcase Sunday

2010-05-23T20:03:00.000-07:00

It is Sunday Evening and as I wait to watch the series finale of Lost I am thinking about my Etsy shop. It is still suffering from slow sales and views due to a bug that is much bigger than most can imagine. It seems to be effecting most shops whether they know it or not. So in the slow times, I try to enjoy relaxing, movies, and being creative in my own time. I was also thinking about how to show off my work and the stories behind them and possibly showcasing other wonderful crafters. Since I just decided to do this like 2 minutes ago and I am impatient to talk to other Etsy folks, I will just blog about my shop tonight. So I want to start with this outfit.

This was my daughter last summer- soo cute! I just started selling on Etsy a year ago- in fact I really started sewing again Feb 09. I sewed in High School and didn't do much of anything until then and I graduated in 94 so it has been awhile! I am amazed how much I have learned in a year of sewing everyday. ANYWAYS, I had this pillowcase dress for sale.

I had a message from a wonderful customer who loved the fabric combo but wanted it to be a romper. I had to google romper- I was clueless back then and still am sometimes. I knew if I was to do that I would have to follow a pattern and I am like I said too impatient to do such a thing! So I said I would make something that a girl could play in that would be birthday party worthy. I ended up with this outfit and I did have to follow a pattern somewhat for the little pantaloons. They are actually capri pants I put elastic on the bottom to make into pantaloons. This has been one of my biggest sellers and has been popular for so many little girl's birthday parties. I am so grateful for customers who work with me on custom orders and aren't afraid to ask. Here are some other pictures of this outfit and it is for sale for $30 at Fancy Pants by Jamee. You can actually see the little girl for whom this set was made for in my feedback. The customer attached an appreciation photo- I love those!

The following pictures were taken by Cassandra of Captured by Cass

If you need a photographer in Lubbock Texas you should check her out! She is a very talented photograher.

Here is another version I have done as well.

It is great to be apart of so many special occasions!

Washer Jewelry Tutorial and GIVEAWAY

2010-05-21T06:53:00.000-07:00

I saw this tutorial on DIY Creative Juices over a year ago and it has been one of my favorites. I used this craft in our last MOPS meeting. Here is what you need.

Some of my instructions have changed over the year. I also want to mention that you also need some craft glue of some sort that was not in this picture. I was trying this mod podge product "dimensional magic" instead of judkins diamond glaze. (my opinion: i like diamond glaze better but for availability and price the mod podge product worked fine for 4.99 at hobby lobby)

ON WITH THE TUTORIAL: You will need to trace your washer on your scrapbook paper of choice and cut it out. Use an exacto knife to cut the center circle.

Then you will use the craft glue which i used tacky glue but i have used regular mod podge before to adhere the paper to the washer.

You will need to let it dry. By the way the picture above is the washer with the glue and the paper was put on directly after. You don't need to put glue on top of the paper afterwards. Once this is dry I like to sand the edges. I am pretty rough with my sand paper because i like the scuffed look. You do this so there is no paper hanging over the edge of the washer which could cause your paper to eventually peel off.

Now you are ready to apply the dimensional magic or diamond glaze. You want to be somewhat generous with this especially if using the dimensional magic it is not quite as thick as the diamond glaze.

Use a brush to push the glaze to the edges. It looks blue but dries clear. It takes about 2-3 hours to dry. Then you can put it on a string. For this craft I found these snap clasps. I tied cording to the hoops on them.

Finally put your washer on the necklace. You can make these two sided too so you get two necklaces in one. I have also attached rhinestones to them to give another layer to the necklace. And if you play washers (the game) why not play in style;) I think that would be a great Fathers Day gift for my dad!!

Follower Giveaway- I hit 300 followers-WOW - you like me, you really like me! I will give you a washer necklace of your choice- pick from the ones in the first picture. To enter just be a follower and leave a comment telling me which one you want and e-mail address so i can contact you to get your address. Winner will be announced may 28. Thanks for all your support and comments- I love hearing from you!

Meal Plan Monday

2010-05-16T12:10:00.000-07:00

1. Oven Fried chicken and mash potatoes, gravy and biscuits
2. Pasta Bake and salad
3. Pork Chops, veggies and rolls
4. Cobb Salad and leftover rolls
5. Enchiladas, rice and beans
Dessert Chocolate Chip Cookies

Oven Fried Chicken (from Bisquick)
1Tbsp marg
2/3 c bisquick mix
1 1/2 t paprika
1tsp. garlic salt
1/4 t pepper
4 chicken breasts

Heat oven to 425. melt butter in 13x9 glass baking dish in oven. Stir together Bisquick mix, paprika, salt and pepper. coat chicken and place skin side down in heated dish. Bake 3in. turn chicken and bake about 15 min. longer or until juice of chicken is clear.

My Work Space

2010-05-15T19:38:00.000-07:00

Sorry I have been absent this week, just gettng some work done. I just wanted to share a find I found at one of our local thrift stores. I got it for $35 and it is on wheels and has a plug in strip, which allows me to move my glue gun out of the kitchen.

It has lots of great storage too. So my husband was thrilled I moved the glue gun out of the kitchen but was not thrilled about this.

He was a little concerned when he saw I loaded my ribbon on dowels and put them in his gun racks. It is not a great solution because the racks are made for guns so the slots are uneven for straight hanging otherwise it would have been perfect in my eyes. I told him it was temporary so we will see what i come up with next;)

I will post again soon- i promise!!

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Etsy Problems!!

2010-05-10T21:06:00.000-07:00

Hi all, I wanted to let you know of a problem I am having with etsy- just incase you might be having the same problem and not even know it. I have had a dramatic sales drop. The only sales I am getting right now are from returning customers. I have also notices a drop in views too. This was quite noticible for me, and because I depend on my sales for bills and groceries I needed to find out the problem. I went to the forums and tried to figure out what the problem was. I found it in the "BUGS" section. I put myself on Vacation in March and then again in April which is where the bug came in. When I reactivated my shop my items were no longer included in google product searches which is HUGE!! Unfortunately I am waiting on the etsy admin to fix this problem. If you too have had this problem -go to the forums and give them your shop name so the engineers can look at it and fix it. Of course don't hold your breath to have this taken care of anytime soon.

Around My Mama's House

2010-05-05T20:17:00.000-07:00

Here is my final post on my Texas Trip. I love so much about my parent's home. It is not where I grew up but is quite homey. This house is actually the parsonage (Dad is a preacher). These are just a few highlights of their home-there is so much to see so I will take more pictures next time.

This is one of those corner plant stands, that my mom put in the bathroom and made a flower arrangement for the top shelf. It gives height to make more of a statement and helps clear clutter off the counter.

What to do with those windows up there? Well my mom's solution is add some color and it looks beautiful from the outside especially at night.

I think this lamp is just perfect in my Nanny's room (my grandmother lives here too- and has a wonderful room) This lamp is beautiful in person the detail is very unique. It is white with yellow. The shade has painted with muted yellow stripes with flowers to embellish the shade.

Mom had a candlestick that was quite sturdy so she used the 5 minute epoxy to adhere the large mosaic glass vase. She then added twinkle lights inside to give it a nice glow.

Here is another project using the 5 minute epoxy. Mom found 3 candle sticks of different heights. She then used the epoxy to glue glass platters on top. This is perfect for banquets and special events at the church to serve food with style.

To Do Tuesday

2010-05-04T07:29:00.000-07:00

Mothers day is just about her and I seriously need to get some gifts made. For this weeks To-Do Tuesday, I chose to pick mother's day gift crafts. So if you haven't gotten yours done either here are some ideas. Be sure to check out the details of each of these crafts by going to thier sites.
1. Melissa over at Those Northern Skies crafted this beautiful heirloom

2. Go to On My Side of the Room to see this awesome mother's day gift.

3. Then check out this Tea Towel Cake over at Aly&Ash

4. Stories By Me has a tutorial for this bracelet that would also be a wonderful gift.

5. For the gardening mother go to The Flowering Dogwood for these garden spoon markers

Embellished Mistakes

2010-05-03T20:19:00.000-07:00

Here is a bonus post for ya!
While I was home visiting the folks, my mom wanted to work on a t shirt she could wear during vacation bible school. The theme this year is about cowboys or something like that. Anyways we were going to do a bleach stencil shirt that said Rhinestone Cowgirl and of course add tones of rhinestones. For that tutorial you can go here. So I got the shirt ready, but I totally saturated the shirt and the bleach soaked through the letters so I ended up with this.

Not quite my desired outcome. So my challenge was to save this shirt. I decided to do the freezer paper stencil technique. I used my cricut to cut out Rhinestone Cowgirl. Then I just pressed it on the shirt wax side down.

I cut a few more pieces of the freezer paper and pressed on the shirt to protect it from excess paint. I wanted to try this spray paint for shirts. I have never used them before and was curious how they would do.

It was interesting but didn't work as well as I had hoped. You are supposed to spray with a white base coat first but that spray can didn't work. So I just sprayed it with the pink and it came out in a jet stream. I wasn't sure how well it was being covered. It was an uneven coverage and peeled some when I took the freezer paper off.

I may try to use this product again, but overall I was disappointed. If anyone has any tips and love this product please do tell. At this point I know I wanted to add a border around my bleach mess. I chose to do a reverse applique. I thought i had some hot pink zebra but I did not so I went with a brown zebra print for this. First I turned my shirt inside out and pinned the zebra print to the shirt with the print facing the back of the t shirt.

Next turned it right side out, sewed a straight stitch around my bleach spot. Then I sewed another straight stitch on the inside of the previous stitch. After that, I cut away the t shirt revealing a border.

I have no idea what to do next, but I know it needs something else. . . .STARS! I drew some stars on my heat bond and made stars to put on my shirt.

I positioned them and ironed them in place. I then stitched them to the shirt.

Add iron on rhinestones and wear.

Meal Plan Monday

2010-05-03T12:03:00.000-07:00

This week here is the plan.
1. Chile Rellenos ( recipe to follow)

2. Taco Salad

3. BBQ Sandwiches

4. Pasta Primevera

5. Meatball Sub casserole - testing it out from Tase of home April 2010

Dessert Lemon Delight Trifle

Doesn't that look yummy- my husband voted for the peanut butter brownie trifle- but i felt lemony. This recipe is also in the taste of home april 2010 issue. I will share it with you if it is delicious.

In celebration of Cinc de Mayo, we will be eating chile rellenos. I live in the southwest so we use green chile. Let me tell you about that first before I get to the recipe. Green Chile looks like this before it is roasted.

Beautiful-huh! But before we cook with them they are roasted. In September the air is filled with this aroma where they are roasting chile- even at walmart they roast them. They roast them like this.

You probably don't have one of these roasters at home but you can go Here to see how to roast your chile- or you can also use poblano peppers for rellenos. When they are roasted they will look like this.

Now you are ready to do some cooking. To begin get your chile ready. Peel the skin off the peppers. Make a slit in the pepper and clean out the seeds. Then you cut cheese strips and slide it in the pepper- now it is ready for the batter.

1 C sifted flour

1t baking powder

1/2 t salt

3/4 C cornmeal

2 eggs

1C milk

Sift flour, baking powder and salt in to med. size bowl. Stir in cornmeal. Beat eggs in a small bowl until frothy. Stir in milk and pour mixture into dry ingredients. Stirring until well blended.

Dip your chiles in the batter and fry up in hot oil and you get this yummy meal.

Easy Decor and Fish Bowl

2010-04-30T13:31:00.000-07:00

This craft is brought to you from my mama's house. I have a few more posts to share from my visit to Texas. My mom bought these candlesticks on clearance from Christmas. She used 5 min. Epoxy to attach a little fish bowl- which you can also find pretty cheap. She used this for an actual fishbowl and to decorate above her craft desk.

I took two pictures of how she decorates with them- so you can see it when it is lit up at night.

Have a great weekend!

Help Was on its Way!!

2010-04-29T07:03:00.000-07:00

I have a problem with some benches in my back yard. I live in the desert and the sun is torture on anything outside like my benches. Rory over at Tools are for Women Too sent help. Check out his site to see his solution for me. Thanks Rory!

Texas Ranger Fan Apparel

2010-04-28T15:10:00.000-07:00

Staying in my Texas Theme, I wanted to show off some clothes I made for a friend. She loves the Texas Rangers and when I had a half a yard of Ranger fabric from some orders I thought of her. She had a set of twins this past spring and another daughter who is under 2. Wow -huh? good thing she has lots of energy!

PLAY BALL!!

Texas Bedroom

2010-04-28T07:13:00.000-07:00

Here is my parents bedroom. I feel it must be shared and discussed. My folks are very proud Texans and they show that off in their bedroom. Take a moment and try to see all there is to see.

Sorry about the flash in the mirror! Notice the vinyle lettering on the wall

Lots to see here. They put a bookcase on top of their dresser which looks great. And can you believe that chair- it is actually a recliner-PERFECT!! Now take a closer look at those lamps.

Here is the window and window treatment. Mom hung crystals in the windows so that in the morning there would be prisms dancing all over the room.

I also wanted to point out one more thing. Did you notice shutters on the sides? Those are old closet doors repurposed. Now lets make a quick stop at my cousin Terry Lynn's house in Bastrop to see how she used them.

She also added pictures to the shutters.

To Do Tuesday

2010-04-27T07:45:00.000-07:00

Here are some great projects to have a Crafty Week. I chose 6 out of the blogosphere this week so you have one for everyday with a day of rest!

1. Debbie over at debbie-debbiedoos has a wonderful tutorial up this week that shows you how to make this sweet tea cup and saucer for your garden.

2. Tammy over at Life on Possom Trot did a super job on this glittery rose made from a pop can! Go check out her site to find out the details of this project.

3. Alisa at The DIY Nest made a beautiful personalized gift by etching glass. I have been meaning to try this so it has to be on my to do list. Go to her blog to find out how to do this project.

4. One of the girls over at The Clever Chic had a great idea for a tool set for her son using real tools. Go to this blog to find out more.

5. Denise at Wallflower Grown Wild made some fun family magnets and shares how she does this project on her blog.

6. I am a sucker for children's clothes so I had to add this sweet dress. You can find out how this dress was made at The Sweet Life

I know!!! - soo many crafts and sooo little time.

Meal Plan Monday

2010-04-26T07:29:00.000-07:00

I am looking forward to a relaxing week with getting my house back in order from our trip. So this week the meal plan is this.

Grilled Pork Chops, stuffing, and rolls

BBQ chicken, BBQ beans, salad, and macaroni

Breakfast night

Spaghetti

Bean Tostadas

Dessert : coffee cake

Have a Delicious week!!

Colander Planter and Planter Bling

2010-04-25T06:43:00.000-07:00

This hanging basket is made with an antique colander. Here is what I started with.

I lined the colander with the coconut lining stuff used for most hanging baskets. Then I added potting soil and the flowers. Next thing added is the bling. My mom made these by using fishing line. She beaded it and glued mirrors on both sides of the fishing line. Then it is tied onto your baskets. This basket is hung with fishing line as well. Here is another hanging basket with some bling.

My mom is daring and thinks outside of the norm. She has decorated pots with marbles and paint. Here is a picture of one of her flower beds in which she wasn't afraid to add some color to her big pots.

Have a beautiful Sunday and thanks for stopping by to see me.

Chicken Zucchini Tortellini

2010-04-23T18:19:00.000-07:00

Here is my recipe feel free to change it for your tastes.
1 package frozen cheese tortellini
1 tablespoon all purpose flour
1 c half and half or milk
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
1/2 c shredded Parmesan cheese
5 strips of bacon
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
1-2 diced zucchini
2 grilled chicken breast shredded or diced

Cook tortellini according to package. In large skillet cook bacon and remove and saute zucchini in some bacon grease. Then add flour and cream until smooth and then add cheeses. bring to a boil. cook and stir for 2 min. or until thickened. reduce heat. drain tortellini add to sauce. throw in chicken and bacon and pepper. cook 5 min or until heated through. hope that makes sense and comes out delicious. serves 3-4

Texas Style

2010-04-23T11:49:00.000-07:00

When I was home we had to take pictures in the blue bonnets-yes we took them of the kids too. I wanted to show you the shirts we made for ourselves. We appliqued the crosses and hearts on a black t shirt and just did a straight stitch around the cross and heart. We also added some iron on rhinestones. After we finished we had to make something for Kate so she would match.

I made a shirred top and shirred the straps too. Then I appliqued the hearts on the bottom and we added iron on rhinestones. I make some ruffled capri pants to match. My sister made her a flower clip that is too fabulous for words. She also made this necklace that matches perfectly.

I will post more of my trip in the upcoming days.

Dressing Room

2010-04-22T16:27:00.000-07:00

I have been in Texas over the past week and want to share some of the things I love. My mom is a stylish pastor's wife. She is very crafty as well as a good dresser. When my siblings and I are were no longer in the home, she decided to turn one of the rooms into her very own dressing room. Here are a few pictures of her room- for some reason I did not take very many.

Here is a great idea for your closet. She took some shutters to put her belts on. They are perfect for those belt buckles and for the other kinds she used s hooks that you find at the hardware store.

You can also put your sunglasses collection up there too. (A Girl can't have on too many accessories especially if you are from Texas!!)

Here is another idea for more belts, bracelets and hats and scarves.

So don't forget to accessorize and have a great day!!

Fast Easy No Sew Eye pillows

2010-04-12T12:43:00.000-07:00

You can make this as simple or as fancy as you would like. This craft is for my MOPS group this week. Every year we have a spa day and so as the craft person I need a spa craft. I chose to do these eye pillows but the challenge was to make it a no sew project. This craft would also be fun for a girls slumber party and it is very cheap to do.

Supplies:

~3/4 C of Rice per pillow

Snack Bag Ziploc Bag

Scissors

low cut sock

sticky velcro

First, I put about 3/4 cup of rice in the ziploc bag. I put it in a ziploc bag because I was not sewing the sock closed and I didn't want it to be a mess for anyone. When you seal it get all the air out.

Next cut about 3 inches of velcro to use to seal the sock closed. You need to cut the ankle /heel part of the sock off at this point and you can use the rice bag to help you determine how much to cut off but leave room for the velcro.

Put the rice bag in and close it up. You could sew it closed or weave ribbon on the end for closures too.

It looked plain so I just used some fabric paint to decorate real quick which it is not fancy at all but let your creative juices flow here. I am having the ladies at MOPS decorate with permanent markers since that is what we already have on hand and like I said if you used this for a slumber party they can autograph each others pillows or just decorate. These can be microwaved or put in the freezer to be cold masks.

TEXAS HERE I COME

2010-04-12T06:59:00.000-07:00

I wanted to announce we are headed to the big great state of Texas this week to be with family- so you know what that means some Texas inspired crafts and fun this week so you can share in my excitement too!! we will be traveling tomorrow so pray for us as we drive from las cruces to Bastrop to stay with my cousin and we will end up in Riverside on wed.-with the toddlers in tow!

In the meantime check out baby week over at my frugal family i enter some old crafts but she is gathering quite a collection so if you have something do share;)

Spring Flip Flops Tutorial

2010-04-08T07:40:00.000-07:00

Here was my problem: "Easter is tomorrow and no white sandals!" I did not like the selection at Walmart and did not want to make an extra trip to the mall for the hunt.

Solution: "Embellished Flip Flops"

This week flip flops are 1/2 off at hobby lobby so they are about 75 cents!! I bought white ones at full price last week 1.47 -still not too bad and had the rest of the supplies at home.

Here is what you need:

glue gun

ribbon

2 "REAL" diamonds-jk

flip flops

flowers

thread

So to start I wrapped the 3/8" ribbon on the tip of the flip flop. You won't find much success by just gluing directly on the flip flop it just doesn't last on the plastic.

glue the ribbon on top of each other and wrap, wrap, glue, wrap, etc.

Now I decided to make a simple small boutique bow to glue the flower on top of. to do that here are pictures to show you how i did that.

So real quick, you make a figure 8, bring loops in and scrunch with your fingers. At this point, I use thread and wrap around it and tie in a not. I don't have 3 hands so to do this I put one end of the thread in my mouth, hold the bow scrunched in one hand and the other hand I wrap around the thread with the other hand.

Next glue flower on top of the bow and glue the bow on the flip flop.

This is how she looked.

To Do Tuesday

2010-04-06T21:25:00.000-07:00

This is a little late but it is here!

First up is something I plan to do this summer. My house is in desperate need of some updating, cleaning, remodeling -just about everything. We try to do one thing a year to improve our house, however money determines how much we get to do. I wan to work on painting the interior of my home and fix up my kitchen and dinning room. This is great inspiration for my dining room. You can go to The Magic Brush to see her tutorial on how she painted this ceiling medallion.

This personalized craft is brought to you by House of Hepworths . Can you believe that is a Dawn soap dispenser. Be sure to check out this blog to see how you can make one for yourself.

Now check out this amazing find from Be Thou a Knight.

That really is a wonderful treasure and I love how you chose to use it. I love to put flowers in everything but haven't lately due to my german sheppard and twin toddlers. I just don't think they would survive.

I also wanted to show you this vintage looking sachet

She printed the graphics out and made this- love it. You can go Here to find out more about this awesome craft.

Meal Plan Monday

2010-04-04T19:17:00.000-07:00

This week my goal is to shop as much as possible from my pantry, so here is the plan in no particular order.
Sausage Gravy and Biscuits
Ham, Sweet Potatoes, Salad and Rolls
Chicken, Zucchini and Tortellini Bake
Tacos
BBQ Chicken, Stuffing and Veggies
Quesadillas

Dessert: Banana Milkshakes and Smoothies

I don't have a recipe to share really but a tip my sister gave me for restaurant style quesadillas.
Make sure your skillet is hot, then put your butter side down flour tortilla on the skillet. Here is the part I always did wrong- put cheese all over your tortilla. This makes your quesadilla nice and cheesy and makes a huge difference on the taste, at least in my opinion. Fill with your favorites and once the cheese has melted fold shut. Have a great week!

Dressing Up your Dress

2010-04-04T13:09:00.000-07:00

I found this gem at Savers a while back and thought it would be perfect for Easter. It was pretty with all its ruffles but had a boring applique on the front that was coming off which was perfect because I wanted it off. I had bigger and better plans for this dress. I paid $4 bucks for it- great buy for an Easter dress. I wanted to embroider on the neckline and add a colored sash. Kate wanted pink but I wanted yellow- I WON- I convinced her otherwise. So to start I embroidered yellow flowers.

I drew the flowers out with diappearing pencil to give me direction. I really don't hand embroider so this is by no means perfect. I made the flowers by making a loop like so.

Then come up in the circle and pull slowly. Next go back in the fabric on the other side of the circle

Do that for each petal. I used green to make a vine and for the center of each flower I would have loved to do a french knot but could figure it out so I just made an x. For the vine- not sure the name but it is like a back stitch but I went back into the previous stitch- confusing hopefully the pictures will help you understand.

I also attached a satin ribbon for the sash. I made my son's shorts so I could make something for him for Easter too.

I wanted to let you know where I got my inspiration. Tada! Creations has a wonderful tutorial much better than mine. She makes the most beautiful items. Here is an apron she made

I will post later this week on Kate's shoes. Hope you had a wonderful Easter- What an Amazing God we have!!

Flip Flop PREP and Etiquette

2010-04-02T16:54:00.000-07:00

Spring is here so now is the time to pull out and sport the flip flops. But before you slip those bad boys on and take a look at your feet -Are they ready for this? I have disgustingly dry feet so my heels are a fright. This season I decided to try a tip a friend of mine told a LONG time ago but have been to lazy to take action. I can't afford to get pedicures so I must take care of this dirty job. Here is the amazing tip that works wonders for my feet and my pocket book!!

Slather this greasy messy product on your feet at night or day. Then put your socks on. Your feet take in all that moisture leaving your dry scratchy feet soft and smooth. This took like 2-3 days but my case was quite extreme. Sorry no before and afters. You will thank me for that!! Before I finish this post I must add, pleased try to keep those toe nails groomed and polished. It is hard to find the time but you are worth it.

Happy Easter!

Hooded Towel Tutorial

2010-04-01T07:53:00.000-07:00

Today I will share how I made these hooded towels. They are for my MOPS group. I was asked to make these for the new moms. I was given an old one they had and no instructions. I was glad this is not a difficult sewing project. They don't take long to make if you don't have to embroider them. (I THINK THIS WOULD BE AWESOME FOR SOME BEACH TOWELS!!)

Here is what I had as my example.

I first embroidered my wash clothes then snipped the corners at the front to get rid of some bulk.

Then you fold it. I can't really explain the fold but it looks like this. You want the snipped point to go out to the edge.

Pin into place and stitch.

You will then pin the wash cloth on the towel. I fold the towel in half to find the center and line it up with the center of the wash cloth. Then stitch them together and you have a hooded towel.

I will have to make some for the kids for the summer and I will show it off later. If you make this craft please link back and share your creations. I love seeing all you do.

fancy pants giveaway

2010-03-31T11:36:00.001-07:00

Here is another giveaway from fancy pants http://takeitfrom-me.blogspot.com/2010/03/fancy-pants-by-jamee-review-giveaway.html be sure to enter giveaway ends 4/7

Funky Gloves Tute & Easter Glove Refashion

2010-03-31T08:40:00.000-07:00

So I had these ridiculous long socks that drove me nuts and would never wear them due to the length. I decided to cut them off when I had to wear them because all else were dirty. I was abou to throw them away when I decided to make them into gloves for my daughter. Here is what I started with

I cut the thumb hole at the end that was finished (not the cut end). Then I cut slits toward the the top cut off end. I spaced them out so I could lace the ribbon through it.

I then decided to sew a straight stitch on the cut end to help keep its shape and fraying too much.

Next I laced the gloves.

Now put them on tie it in a bow.

Cut off the excess ribbon and heat seal.

I also want to show you these gloves or boves as my daughter calls them. Her nana made these for easter gloves.- so stock up now!!

Have a happy hump day!

To Do Tuesday

2010-03-30T19:30:00.000-07:00

I think I have way to much to do but why not pile on these fabulous crafts and ideas!!
First up is some homemade laundry detergent by Sew Much Ado

Oh the money that can be saved!! Go Here to see how she makes it!!

Next up is this fun and educational activity that is right up my son's alley he loves cars and lining them up

This activity is from A Little Family Fun

You can go Here to see more about this fun way to practice numbers.

I would love to find this at my goodwill! Way to go Junk Blossoms.

You can go Here to see its beautiful transformation to this. I so want it for my daughter's room!

Minutes to spare made this darling swag.

You know I love the Rags! Go check out Minutes to Spare to see more.

And you mind as well go back on over to I am Momma Hear Me Roar. Cheri is constantly amazing me. I soo love this little cowboy room. My son will eventually going to have his on room and we want to do it cowboy style! So here is my inspiration.

You should look at I Am Momma Hear Me Roar to see more of this little cowboy's room.

Giveaway of $20 Gift Certificate to FANCY PANTS

2010-03-29T17:39:00.000-07:00

Sorry I have been MIA but we have had spring break and a load of orders I need to fill. I should have a new tutorial up this week and will be back in action. However I did wan to take a moment to tell you about a giveaway. As most of you know I have a children's boutique on etsy called fancy pants. This week Life as Lori is holding a giveaway to my shop for a $20 gift certificate to any item you wish. Please go HERE to enter this giveaway.

New Winner

2010-03-19T07:23:00.000-07:00

I had to choose a new winner for my apron giveaway since I did not hear from the first selection. So the new winner is Lanie Ree from Life in the Pitts. Please e mail me your address so I can mail you your new apron. My e mail is Jamee61@msn.com. You have until Sunday to give me your address or I will have to pick a new winner.

Raggy Flops Tutorial Part 2

2010-03-19T07:08:00.000-07:00

Here is the second part of these flip flops. For this tutorial I started with these flip flops to see how I made the first part you can go Here.

Next I felt we needed a focal point on these wild flip flops. I wanted to embroider a K on some black fabric to put on a button cover. If you don't have an embroidery machine don't worry Hobby Lobby sells some cute embroidered letters on button covers. They are white with black stitching and they also would be cute in the middle of a bow.

Once I embroidered my K's I cut them down to put on my button covers I used adhesive spray to center and keep in place, however a glue gun wuld work great too.

Next I cut 3 various sized circles per flop with my pinker shears. I then used my needle and thread to stitch and pull to gather the circles.

It should turn out something like this.

Now you are ready to hot glue it all together.

Do the other one, and you have some cute flip flops on your feet. I need to make her an outfit to go with these. Look for that later. Have a super weekend!

Cowboy Days and Gun Holster Tutorial

2010-03-17T17:07:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday our family made its yearly visit to the Cowboy Days at the Farm and Ranch Museum in Las Cruces. We love to get dressed up for the occasion...well...the kids and I do. Unfortunately I did not get any pictures of myself which is often the case since I am the one taking the pictures. Here is a picture of the kids watching team roping.

Last year I made the vest you see him wearing. It is nothing special it is made of felt and I sewed a star and stitched sheriff on it. Luckily it still fit. I also made Kate an outfit but didn't get to this year. However my mom made this adorable outfit that fit the occasion. I ended up whipping together a holster for Josh so he could carry his gun. Here is how i did it. I took his gun and laid it on some brown fleece- i would have preferred felt since it is a little stiffer but it was just for the day so it did okay.

Next I cut the bottom piece of the holster. Using the gun as my guide.

Then I cut the top piece.

Then I sewed it together with silver thread using a decorative stitch.

Finally I cut two slits for it to put the belt through.

Here it is ready to go!

Have a ROOTIN' TOOTIN' GOOD DAY!!

This project was featured at this fabulous blog

To Do Tuesday

2010-03-16T08:15:00.000-07:00

So I had my energy drink and I am ready to go! First up on my to -do list is these lovely eye catching luggage tags from Fun to Craft.

These are perfect for quick identfication amoung all those black bags when traveling. Go here to learn how to make them. This tutorial is brought to you by

Next on the list is this AWESOME bag that turns into a playmat. I needed this with my kiddos when they were a bit younger but how great now to take a picnic in it and lay out a blanket from the same bag carrying the goods.

Rockie really created SOMETHING WONDERFUL! Go here to see how she did it.

I must mention this super cute applique Cas did over at Just a Steel Magnolia in Georgia

Go here to see more!

I also must add this sweet craft to my to- do list

This will be a great addition to my Easter decor and believe it or not she made that basket from yarn! She has a great tutorial here.

This beautiful seasonal craft is brought to you by

Have a wonderful Tuesday!! I look forward to all the new crafts put out there every week it gets hard to decide what to put on my to do list.

WINNER, WINNER MOMTO2MUNKEYS

2010-03-16T07:14:00.000-07:00

I had so many wonderful comments and plenty that made me laugh. Ya'll are great. Through this process I gained more followers I am almost to 200 so I guess I will have to do another giveaway soon to celebrate that milestone. I used random.org- love that!! and got momto2munkeys. Please email me Jamee61@msn.com with your address and I will mail it off to you asap. You have until mar. 18 to contact me or I will pick a new winner.

Meal Plan Monday

2010-03-15T16:07:00.000-07:00

Well it is late afternoon feeling a bit tired from my exhausting sewing weekend. I have close to 50 items going in the mail today and tomorrow- not all made this weekend but the majority. So needless to say I am behind!! So here is my meal plan for the week - going to make it as easy as possible.
Order Pizza- Tonight!!
Bean tostadas
Grilled Chicken and Veggies
Grilled Pork Chops and Zucchini
Roast with carrots and potatoes

I will announce the winner of the apron tomorrow

Made 2 Match Bows!!

2010-03-12T13:41:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday!! I had a wonderful friend over today to make bows for our daughters. So the kids played nicely while we worked on bows -oh what fun. I started making bows this past summer and I know for many can be very intimidating- it was for me. I watched various tutorials on youtube to learn. My favorite was from hair hardware ( Here is one of hers - I don't follow her tutorial exactly but gave me good direction) It took a lot of practice and bows to get where I am today but since it is a small part of my business I do get the practice in. However my poor daughter sometimes gets left out so TODAY I made bows to match some summer outfits I have been saving. I gathered up the outfits I needed to make bows for.

And I pulled out my ribbon stash. It is also so nice to make bows with friends not only because you enjoy the company but their ribbon stash too.

I didn't quite finish by the time our bow making session ended but I felt there was a spool or two of ribbon I needed to complete my goal. Although I don't think I did that bad and had a great time making these hair pieces of art.

Enjoy your weekend.

Raggy Necklace

2010-03-11T18:27:00.000-08:00

I wanted to make a necklace to go with some raggy flip flops that would pull together a summer outfit- which I am still working on. To start I cut a piece of neclace wire and used some old plastic beads. I beaded the wire and got this ugly thing.

Then I layed on my long piece of material. I wrapped the beads and tied a strip of zebra print fabric I cut with my pinker sheers.

Then when I finished I added my clasps. I then wanted to add a center piece so I took one of the washers I did for another necklace and hot glued a pretty cross from a pair of earrings on top of it.

I used a head pin to attach the center piece by putting a cutting the head off and making a hook with my round nose pliers.

I ended up with this crazy piece of jewelry and once I get all my pieces of my outfit made I will post some pictures of the complete look;-)

I will post raggy flops part 2 tomorrow

Be sure to get in on my apron giveaway it ends mar 15 go here

Easter Topiary

2010-03-10T09:46:00.000-08:00

It is windy outside here in southern New Mexico so I know spring is upon us. I thought I would attempt an Easter Egg Topiary this spring. Here is how I made it.

Supplies: Topiary Form found at Hobby Lobby, ribbon, large ric rac, pot, moss, small spleckled eggs, glitter, adhesive spray, glue gun, pins

The first thing I did was go out in the garage and spray the topiary for with adhesive spray and stick the moss on it. After you do this it looks alittle scary.

Then I took the ribbon and wrapped the stick. I used the hot glue gun to stick into place.

Then I wanted the top to look sort of like a birds nest so I cut about 10-12 pieces of ribbon at 8 in. I sealed the ends of ribbon with heat.

I took silver sewing pins and pinned into place. I think it would also be neat to add feathers or even tulle but didn't have it on hand so the ribbon curls will do. Now lets hot glue the cute little eggs on the topiary.

I then took it back to the garage and sprayed with more adhesive and sprinkled with pretty white glitter. For the pot I watered down some yellow metallic paint and painted it.

I hot glued a blue ric rac on the rim and put my topiary in to finish this craft.

Happy Spring!!

Be sure to get in on my apron giveaway- to enter go HERE

This craft was featured at

To -Do Tuesday

2010-03-09T07:27:00.000-08:00

I thought for today I would share a few items I saw in blog land that I want to put on my to-do list. My only problem with my to-do list is the fact I need more time in my day to do them!! However I love all the wonderful crafty ideas floating around on my computer. Here are just a few.
#1 have you checked out this blog- AMAZING! I must say and I can't believe more people haven't found her yet. She has super ~~CUTE~~ cool clothes for boys and a few for us mommies. Here are some highlights be sure to go to I AM MOMMA- HEAR ME ROAR to see how she makes these clothes.

She made this with a bleach pen and freezer paper stenciling- It looks adorable on her son!

And I love this dress she put together- you really can get lost in her blog with a ton of things to add on your to-do!

I love these jeans - I really need to get in front of my sewing machine to make these jeans for my kids. Nancy also has other wonderful ideas on her blog you should check out - VERY ROCK-N-ROLL!

Here is her site Nancy's Couture

or maybe I will have to make some of these trunks- we are potty training so we go through alot!

Then I need to do some educational things with the kiddos. I would like to follow the examples Sarah over at Harrigan Howdy has given her readers- go check out all her ideas!

Maybe you should add these to your to-do lists!

Don't forget to get in on my apron giveaway HERE

Meal Plan Monday

2010-03-07T18:16:00.000-08:00

I am looking to have a wonderful week as I plan and think about what lies ahead. I am enjoying this spring like weather and wearing capris and flip flops- LIFE IS GOOD!! So here is what I plan to take to the table this week.
1. Big Breakfast Dinner with gourmet omelets, hash browns and biscuits
2. Green Chile Enchiladas
3. Spaghetti
4. Hamburgers and home fries
5. Bacon Tortellini
Dessert: Apple Pie and Ice cream

Here is a recipe a dear friend gave to me which I changed alittle to go with our tastes which you are welcome to do the same.
STACKED Green chile Enchiladas
Approx. 2-3 Large Chicken Breasts
1 Large can of cream of mush soup
1 C or 8oz of Chopped Green Chile
1/4 C chopped onions- we don't like too much
Large stack of corn tortillas- 3 dozen
salt
Oil
Garlic to taste
Cheese

Boil Chicken with some salt. Shred chicken and keep broth from chicken. Put a little oil about 2T in a sauce pan, add diced onions, garlic and green chili and seasonings cook til transparent. Throw in soup and about 1/2 c of broth from chicken in pan and mix together. Fry tortillas in another pan of oil. In a 9x13 pan, layer tortillas, sauce, chicken, cheese, and more onions if you want them. Bake at 350 for about 30 min until cheese is bubbly. If you have any questions feel free to ask and I will try to answer

Don't forget to enter to win the apron- deadline for it is mar. 15

HAVE A GREAT WEEK!!

Follower Giveaway and Pattern Tips

2010-03-06T17:42:00.000-08:00

I want to thank all of you wonderful followers!! I reached 100+ and to celebrate and thank you for making this little venture in my life fun I want to have a simple giveaway of this apron. Yes very simple just comment that you are following me and you are entered in the drawing. I will announce the winner next Monday March 15. You will have to check my blog on march 15th. to see if you are the winner. I am having trouble e-mailing through my blog so the winner will have to e-mail me their address so I can mail the prize. I will give my e-mail address on the 15th in case anyone else is having the same problem. So lets get on with the craft/ giveaway.

I found this beautiful little bundle at Hobby Lobby the other day for $3 so I talked to my wonderful friend Debbie in the Fabric Dept and she said they were 2 aprons and didn't know if there was something wrong with them. She showed me the bolt of fabric in the spring collection so I could see what it could possibly be. I was sold. I brought it home and found they were in perfect condition!

So for $3 I got 2 panels of fabric to make two super cute aprons. But that is not all, I decided I would make a pattern with the wonderful product from pellon called easy pattern. I use it to copy my patterns so I can get use of all the sizes in a pattern and it is thicker so it doesn't tear as easily as that pattern paper in commercial patterns. You just lay it on top of the pattern and trace. Since this was just one size I just pinned it on apron pieces and cut.

So I have 2 aprons - 1 for me and 1 for one of my followers and a pattern to make more with any fabric combination my heart desires!

Be sure to enter to win this apron- just leave a comment telling me you are following me and check back march 15th to see if you won. THANK YOU!!

Artwork Display Plaque Tutorial

2010-03-04T13:34:00.000-08:00

I get the privilidge of coming up with crafts for my MOPS group. This week our discussion was on education and the options we have as parents. For the craft I wanted to make thos panels with modge podge and the clothes pins attached for them to display their childrens work in another place besides our fridges. However I have a budget to work with and I could of done it if I was able to get some panels cut in 12 inches per lady at LOWES. Lowes no longer cuts panels for you so I would have to go to home depot with toddlers in tow and that did not sound fun therefore I found this solution at Hobby Lobby.

I bought these little plaques for 50 cents each. Then to save a little more money I chose for us to paint them.

let that dry a bit then use the sticky spray adhesive and stick a letter down

Then I painted yellow on top of that so this could match their room.

Then pull the letter off and you get this

too plain for me so i added some some dots.

I painted the clothes pin too. Then hot glued it on top. This would also be neat coat hangers just screw in a cup hook. Finally I hammered on a hook on the back

Now I am done with my sample to take to MOPS. Here is a picture of some of the women from MOPS working on it.

I took without much warning so they wouldn't leave. They all came up with beautiful work. Here are the ones Candace did for her boys and I love how it turned out.

Hope you enjoyed this one. I will show you where I put mine in the near future. Also I am planning to do a giveaway to one of my followers soon so check back soon.

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/mls_wizard2_1.php?sid=54488-93-65AE20D263D2C415B1D9C2C078173276#ixzz0gxmXqdUK

Meal Plan Monday

2010-02-28T18:11:00.000-08:00

Another week is here and I have got my plan in place. Now I just have to conquer walmart for the supplies of course that is after a doctor's appt. for my son at 7:45 am. I am hoping since we will be first we won't have to wait long. So here it is in no particular order:
*Ravioli Casserole ( recipe to follow)
*Fried Chicken Strips and potato salad
*Red Chile burritos - muy bueno!! but kind of regional since I use the frozen Albuquerque mild red chile
*Chicken Spaghetti
*Pancake Supper
AND the Dessert of the Week goes to the spectacular CARROT CAKE- Yummy!!
Here is a recipe to try- it is a fast easy casserole to get through the week.- similar to lasagna
Ravioli Casserole
1 jar spaghetti sauce
1 package (25oz) frozen cheese ravioli-cooked and drained
2 C (16oz) small curd cottage cheese
4 C (16 oz) shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 C grated Parmesan Cheese
Spread 1/2 C of spaghetti sauce in an ungreased 13inx9in baking dish. Layer with half of the ravioli, 1 1/4C sauce, 1C cottage cheese and 2 Cof mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered at 350 for 30-40 min. let stand 5-10 min. serves 6-8

Happy Birthday Jewelry (Tutorial)- St. Patrick's Jewelry if it's not your birthday

2010-02-28T10:23:00.000-08:00

This is my mom. I wanted to use this post to honor and celebrate her. If you ever had the privilidge of meeting her you would never forget it. She lives way to far from me which is my fault not hers and she will tell you the same. We try to visit as often as we can but of course it is not enough. If you think I am crafty it is because of her. She sees potential in just about anything and can make anything beautiful. So today I made her birthday present and will show you how I did it. Let me say she never goes subtle so we had to make a piece that made a statement!

Several years ago, my parents got me jewelry making tools and supplies for Christmas and I used to make jewelry all the time but when the babies were born the beads were put away.

Lets get started on this little tutorial. My supplies came from hobby lobby they have great sales and options for me there. Bead stores are a bit expensive but the selection is amazing!

Crimping beads are key in beading. They are metal beads you squeeze around your wire to keep the beads in place. When you bead it is nice to have a bead board- i lent mine out to someone and now I can't remember who so if you have it please return it - thanks. These are nice to plan your necklace. I layed out a pattern on my plate to give a me a little direction in this neclace.

Then I started beading. I cut some necklace wire to the length I wanted ( don't cut too short because you can cut the excess later). I put a crimp bead at the end to let me bead with ease- i will cut it off later to add my closures.

then i got a little help!

hey he has been practicing on those lacing cards he can do it;)

Then for the center of the necklace I wanted to add a focal piece. I used a jump ring to attach it.

I finished beading the necklace, so now lets put the lobster clasp and the figure 8 thing i found left from another closure I had.

When I finish a necklace, I put a crimp bead, the closure piece and then pull the wire back through the crimp bead and a few other beads. Crimp the bead to secure in place and cut the excess wire. You are done with that now lets do the earrings- fast and easy. Start with a flat head pin:

Then load it up but not to the top. Some beads have holes that will just slip past the flat head so you can use a small seed bead to stop it.

I then ut it where i have like 1/2 in or so to roll a circle at the top. You use your round nose pliers to do this. Use your wrist to make a nice circle.

Now use a jump ring to attach it to the earring. I like using a jump ring so it dangles nicely

Now lets color some pictures for Nana

This necklace is great for birthday and st. patrick's day we don't want nana getting pinched!!

Happy Birthday MOM

Blog Award

2010-02-26T06:49:00.000-08:00

Tara over at the fabulous blog The Trendy Treehouse has awarded my blog this award.

Thanks so much, I have really enjoyed jumping into the crafty blog community! The trendy treehouse has so much offered over there and is a great example of what a trendy blog should be! So this is quite an honor.

Custom Order Show off and Tutorial

2010-02-25T20:05:00.000-08:00

If you did not know, I have an online shop through etsy that I sell children's clothes. I opened it back in May and it has been an adventure! I started sewing and selling to feed my crafting habits. However, with the economy and our budget changing so did my reasons for my business. I want to thank all who buy handmade -not just from me but from the many. There is no way I would be able to stay home with my children without that income. I am able to buy our groceries every month because of it. Soo THANK YOU! I felt I needed to say that before I go on with my little show off and tutorial.

This was a custom order for a friend which I am sure I will introduce later. She wanted a cupcake onesie with a 1 on top and a matching tutu. Here is what I came up with.

She loves everything boutique so she also wanted a bow holder for her daughter using her initial and the colors of pink and purple to match her room- which is pictured at the top. Let me take you through the process so if you decide to make this you can avoid my mistakes!

I started with the letter- i found this letter at hobby lobby along with all my other supplies. I traced the letter on th back of the scrapbook paper I wanted to glue on top- do you see how i already screwed up! and i only bought one piece of the perfect pink polka dot paper- don't worry I didn't figure out I screwed up until AFTER I cut it out!!

DANG - IT .... okay I did some thinkin' and I will piece the scraps together to make it work.

I used mod podge to glue it down. don't be too stingy with this stuff! and look out for air bubbles. Now is the hard part letting it dry. Once it dries you can take your exacto kniff to cut any paper hanging over.- if it tears a little during this process don't worry because now it is time to do some sanding.

I like to sand all the edges and even a little on the top to give a scratched look. For this bow holder I decided to embellish it with some ribbon and a painted crown cut out. I cut the ribbon to fit, sealed the ends and modpodged it on first.

Then mod podge thest of the letter and WAIT until it dries. Did I mention I hate waiting? I guess while I wait I will get my ribbon ready. I wanted a pink and purple ribbon but could not find what I wanted so stitched the pink ribbon on the purple using a wide zig zag stitch. If you stitch on ribbon, it tends to wrinkle up a bit. just iron it straight.

I used my staple gun to attach to the letter. I used my glue gun to attach my crown and bow to the letter.

Lastly, to hang the letter you can attach some kind of picture hanger, which I did not have on hand so I went with the soda top.

My letter is pretty thin so this was a little difficult- I nailed and glued this sucker on.

If you don't want to make one but would like one of these or another beautiful bow holder check out all the wonderful items and sellers on etsy.

Blog Honor!

2010-02-25T19:22:00.000-08:00

Kelly over at Chick N Charge had honored me with this award. She has a wonderfully creative blog there be sure to check her out!

Thank you so much. I just started blogging again the past few weeks and it has been a great joy getting meet so many wonderful folks and of course I still enjoy reading everyone elses blogs and seeing their creative minds at work!

I am to pass this along to seven more fabulous blogs but this is where i get stuck!! I love reading so many blogs I follow probably like 40 and that number seems to grow everyday I also love looking at all the blogs that link up to the different parties I link up too. SOOOOOOOOOOO to limit it to 7 is just down right impossible to me!

Knitting!! Oh MY!

2010-02-25T11:53:00.000-08:00

My sister in law Caci is in the middle of showing her home and preparing to make the big move BACK to Texas. Let me not forget to mention she has 4 kids ranging from 6 months up to an 11 year old! I can't even imagine. Anyways, Caci is one crafty mama and still finds to craft. She has had to put away her sewing machine and a lot of her paper crafts and has focused on a new craft knitting. She has really enjoyed this new craft and finds time to do knit just about every night. It amazes me, because knitting seems like it takes a lot of focus and time and I am just too ADD! Caci has posted her first knitted item in her etsy shop Pickled Peppers and I am sure it won't be her last. These blankets are wonderfully soft! I had some for the babies when we brought them home from the hospital and kept them as a keepsake they could pass down to their children.

What's on the Menu for this week?

2010-02-22T08:01:00.000-08:00

I hate asking Jason what do you want to eat this week and the response is always the same "I don't know?" and the thing is I don't know either yet I must come up with a plan for the week. I know everyone is in the same position so I thought I would post what the plan is and you can leave comments to help me out next week by telling me maybe your favorite meal you are planning to fix this week. I typically plan for 5-6 meals a week and one dessert. The reason for only 5-6 is not because we go out to eat with 2 2yrold toddlers and no money but because I take a night or two off and we have leftovers. So here is our plan in no particular order:

1. BBQ, macaroni, baked beans, corn
2.Red Beef Enciladas, guacamole and chips, rice and beans
3.Lasagna, salad
4.Grilled Chicken and Veggie Bake
5.Ham and Potato Soup

and for dessert Homemade Banana Pudding using Caci (my sister in law) recipe:) yum

What are you planning that is your favorite?

Raggy Flops Part 1

2010-02-21T12:19:00.000-08:00

This just the first part of this tutorial. I think my Texas colors will definitely shine on this project!! I know it is early for flip flops at least it is here. In fact a little cold front just moved in and it has been pretty windy. So since it is so nasty outside I have to get some fun craft inside going on. I know you have seen these. I have never made any but I wanted to make a pair and add some extra flair. By the way this a craft fun for the kids to do and help with. My kiddos loved playing with the scraps and handed me strips.

So here is how I got started:
Pick your fabrics- I decided to go with the pink black combos

I also added cowprint after I took this picture.

Next cut about 3/4 in strip across the width of the fabric. I was using 5 different fabrics so for the flip flops I cut two strips of each fabric for a total of 10 strips.

Then cut the strips to about 5-6 in. lengths- you don't want to cut them too short because it becomes too hard to tie in knots.

Now start tying them on the flip flops.

I wrapped the straps for decorating these flip flops with a bow but it is sooooo not neccessary for this craft.

Here it is after I finished tying the rags on.

Whoa!! That is a MESS- let's see if it is better on.

NOPE- and as my daughter says "too much!" So don't toss out the shoes yet- I will give them a simple haircut and here is what we have now.

I like it but I think it needs a little more definition so that will be in a later post after I get a little work done. You can buy the flip flops pretty cheap at hobby lobby. Thanks so much looking at my crafts. I always appreciate comments and my followers. If you have any questions I can't seem to figure out how to anwer in an e-mail- my computer puts me through a wizard and says i can't do it. I guess I can answer in later posts or in the comments- sorry i am not too good with these computers.

Lacing Cards

2010-02-19T10:14:00.000-08:00

I found some those awesome melissa and doug lacing beads at Savers for 1.99 and of course had to snatch those right up. This activity is a little difficult for my 2 year olds but is a great educational activity I can help them with. While playing with the beads, I thought about the lacing cards or sewing cards I had as a child. I decided I wanted to get my cricut out and make some for my kiddos. There are so many options for lacing cards and I was thinking this is also a great birthday present as well as party favors for birthday parties. Here are the steps I took to make my lacing cards:
Got my handy dandy cricut and the cutting up cartridge and cute paper:

Then I cut out a J and K for there names but thinking now I wish I just cut there name out so they could see their name in print..

I cut th letters and glued them on cardstock and traced around them with marker to define them alittle more. Next I cut them out and put them in a laminating pouch and laminated them using my yourstory from provo craft- which I found on sale for $34 at Walmart. Otherwise I would of taken them to get laminated.

This was the first time I used this so didn't push all the air bubbles out so it got a little wrinkled on the way out

Next you cut them out and punch holes around them. Take a shoe lace and lace or you can use a piece of yarn with tape around the end. So while I was doing this I thought how cool to repurpose the valentine cards the kids got from their great grandmother "Nanny". So I cut the card in half and glued the writing part on the back and laminated it.

Punch holes and play.

For the dinosaur lacing card I used the paper doll cartridge. I drew the design by removing the blade and using the cricut marker then replacing and cutting out the image.

The Cricut

2010-02-18T16:45:00.000-08:00

I see a couple of questions floating about the cricut and what it is and does so I thought I would at least post a link from you tube about what it is and what it does. It is very cheesy but it is a good over view here it is:
provo craft cheesy you tube video I use my Cricut for mostly paper crafting like scrapbooking, it is great for cardmaking too. It can also help in making vinyl lettering, glass etching and many other craft projects. It is alittle pricey but depending on how much you would use it- it is worth it. I bought the expressions which is the larger model. I thought if I go back to teaching I would definitely use it in the classroom. However, I really bought it for scrapbooking which helps me cut down costs on stickers and pre-made embellishments because now I just cut them out with my cricut. My expressions came with 2 cartridges and cost 273.00 and each cartridge can range from $20-on sale to $90 each. I have friends I borrow cartridges from too. There are programs out there now where you can use your computer to take the images and cut using your cricut but I am really not that great with computers and get easily frustrated that I have not looked into that. The smaller personal cricut can be purchased around $100. You can not use the 40 % coupon from hobby lobby or joanns on these but they do go on sale or you can check craigslist, and ebay for a deal too. hope that helps a little bit in understanding the cricut. Here are some sample scrapbook layouts i did with my cricut- sorry the pictures are not that great and like I said the cricut can be used for more than just scrapbooking.

Another giveaway but this one is from Fancy Pants!!

2010-02-17T18:02:00.000-08:00

Blend it baby is holding a giveaway of one of MINE!! It is the st. patrick's day pillowcase dress. This giveaway closes 2/28 so be sure to check out blend it baby's blog to enter to win one of my st. patrick's day pillowcase dresses !!

Giveaway to Trotter Sweet Peas

2010-02-17T10:36:00.000-08:00

There is a giveaway going on at Whimsy Couture Boutique. Go to here website to enter for a $25 gift cerftificate to Trotter Sweet Peas. She has beautiful children's skirts and some great patterns to try out. I know I have entered -you might want to go do the same!

Quick Bubble Re-do

2010-02-17T09:19:00.000-08:00

I don't know if you saw this adorable bubble from Carters. It came out last year and I really wanted to get one for my daughter, but I would think of all the other things I needed to buy and talked myself out of it. Well I found one at Savers the other day. It is a size 24 mo. and my daughter is a 2T/3T so needless to say it would not fit her. I figured it would fit her in the top but the length would not be right. I decided to buy it anyway hoping I could make it work as a shirt. To start I cut off the crotch off leaving as much length as it allowed- i figured if it was too short i could always add a band or ruffle.

Next I ironed a small rolled hem at the bottom

Stitched a straight stitch on the hem

And I was done and loved how it looked on Kate- I am such a sucker for anything yellow!!

I know this is super simple and really doesn't need to have steps explained but I thought maybe someone has a bubble they loved and didn't think of doing this yet.