Day 2 Day Ramblings

2011-08-04T14:25:00.000-07:00

Easter Outfits...

2011-07-14T19:16:00.000-07:00

After writing one of my last post I realized I didn't share any pictures of the kid's Easter outfits this year. I didn't due to much as we've been busy with building a house and all..... ;)

But here's a picture of their outfits. I found this fabric at a thrift store 2 yards for $1.50!! Can't get much better than that!

Van's tie is from the pattern I listed in the last post. You can find it here.
Annika's skirt is made from a tutorial I found on Dana's site over at Made called the Simple Skirt.

Kind of a funny story. When I first made the skirt it was just the blue with white polka-dot fabric. Annika looked at me and said, "Mom that's kind of ugly." (sigh). So we added the pink ribbon and and flower. She liked it a lot better!

Close up of flower and ribbon border.

I plan to make an Itty Bitty Dress as shown in the previous post in this same fabric so they will match also. :) I have to say I never thought I'd be one of those mom's that matched their kids clothes...but the fabric is cute and how can I resist?!?

Baby Girl Outfit (head to feet)!

2011-07-12T01:00:00.000-07:00

I'm loving this outfit!!! I got the fabric from Walmart (of all places). I LOVE it! It was 1.50 a yard!

Every pattern I used for this outfit was free (except the bonnet pattern and I would GLADLY pay $5 for that pattern any day)!

Starting at the head and going down!

The Bonnet: Made from the pattern "The Beautiful Bonnet" found on Etsy!

The Dress: The Itty Bitty Dress found on Made by Rae's site (this is a free newborn dress pattern).

The diaper Cover: Newborn Bloomers is also a free pattern made by Bonnie over at Fish Sticks and Fries. Oh and while you're over there check out her new announcement! Her patterns are now for sale in PDF format!!!

The Shoes: Pleated Mary Janes also a free pattern.

The whole outfit together:

Feel free to go by print out the pattern and make your girl up a new outfit from head to toe!

My goal is to make the older sister and dress using the same fabric as above and using the Summer Dress Pattern I sewed here. I also plan to make Van a tie to match with this pattern off of Etsy. This is the pattern I used to make his Christmas tie and his Easter tie (hmmm...no picture of their matching Easter Outfits, I'll have to post that one another time)!

Book Review: The Lady of Bolton Hill - By Elizabeth Camden

2011-07-07T07:55:00.000-07:00

Clara a girl from the upper class neighborhood and Daniel a boy from the lower class neighborhood what do these two have in common? They both love music and they are best friends! They spend a lot of time together playing music. Over the years they slowly grow an attachment to each other (both unwilling to share with the other neither feeling worthy of the love they have for each other).

One day Clara leaves to travel with an aunt. Daniel continues on with his life after the death of both his parents (raising his two sisters). He becomes a powerful business man thanks to an invention he’s made for the railroad. But grudges holds Daniel back and causes some problems. One of which is Clara. She comes back and meets Daniel, but is sadden by the hard heart of the the sweet boy she once knew. Clara makes a few mistakes of her own. She has become a journalist and has been defending under privileged workers (similar to those that work for Daniel).

Will their different views keep them apart or will they see through them to find the tender love they once had?

The reason I choose to review this book was the cover picture. It was beautifully done and I have read a few other books with the same cover and I enjoyed them (kind of a shallow reason huh?).

I did find this book to be interesting, the plot and series of events had me having a hard time putting it down. The characters were well developed and distinct in the story. I would definitely read another book from Elizabeth Camden. I thought she did a marvelous job with this book!

I received a free copy of this book courtesy of Bethany House Publishing Company for the purpose of reviewing.

Happy 4th of July!!!

2011-07-04T08:23:00.001-07:00

Variations of the Comfy Sleep Set:

2011-06-28T01:00:00.000-07:00

I used the Comfy Sleep Set (another Pattern from Fishsticks Design, you can download the pattern from here (sizes newborn - 12 months but you have to buy the magazine for the directions). On Bonnie's blog you can also get the pattern in bigger sizes!

This is such a wonderful and easy pattern to sew up great for any baby or little kid! And adaptable!

Here's a picture of the a newborn Comfy Sleep Set (CSS) that I made (w/ matching diaper):

Here I changed the pattern into a dress (0-3 months): I ADORE this fabric!!

Here's one I turned into a baby gown: 0-3 months; I think I may make a hat to match with a pink flower on it!
Front:

Back:

Thanks for letting me share!

Van is 2!

2011-06-26T02:51:00.000-07:00

Happy 2nd Birthday to this little guy!

We were blessed 2 years ago with one of the sweetest little boys!

You can see more at our family blog.

Recent Sewing....

2011-06-24T04:07:00.000-07:00

Ready for this.....I've been sewing up a storm lately! Mostly stuff for the new little girl on the way!

First up a shirt: Using my Little Layette Pattern found at Fishsticks Design:
I believe this s a size 0-3 months!

Some bibs for the Van-man: Poor guy for almost 2 years now (he turns two on Sunday) has been wearing his sister's cast offs...so we said "good-bye" to the purple "Diva" bib and "hello" to 2 new airplane bibs!

That's all I have for now, but come back because I have an assortment of things from another pattern! 3 different looks from one GREAT pattern!

In the pass couple of ~~weeks~~ months, I've been able to test some more stuff:
Like these Gaucho pants for Miss A!

I also made Van some shorts for this summer to wear outside to play in. Poor guy didn't have any summer shorts (than I pulled out his 12 month size ones from last year and realized he still fits in them).We made these because he needed some shorts he could wear to the land (house) when he's "helping" daddy build (I'll update more about the house another time). The legs aren't really that uneven, just not a great picture!

This pair is made out of an old shirt from daddy! Daddy has had this shirt since he was a freshmen (or sophomore) in high school! Yes daddy is turning 29 this year! I told him it was finally time to give it up! I have since added length to them (so they didn't pull so much in the diaper area), and pockets, but now they are too big. Maybe he'll fit into them next year (they are to long).

Well that's all I have for now! Thanks for letting me share!

Tester Dress Pattern

2011-06-07T05:34:00.000-07:00

I was able to cross a couple of things off my "to do" list! I'm moving kind of slow. I was able to get some stuff in the house packed up last week. You see we are moving sometime before baby comes (hopefully) we're just not sure when. Yes this does drive me a bit crazy as I really don't have anything ready for this little girl come.

On to sewing!!!

I was one of the lucky few to test a new dress pattern for a friend and I have to say we LOVE this dress. It's adorable! Even my non-dress wearing 4 year old LOVES it!!

I CANNOT wait until the pattern comes out!

My little model: I told her to stand and smile and this is what I got! ;)

Because I was just testing a pattern I used some cheaper fabric that I had hanging around (this is $1 yard fabric from Walmart). If you look close my stitching isn't the greatest also (I don't think I would have her wear this one out of the house). I will definitely be making her another one with this fabric as I LOVE the color of it. I also plan on making it a bit longer (the one in this picture was not hemmed). But again I LOVE this pattern.

You can see other patterns created by this seamstress here: http://www.etsy.com/shop/BirdifulStitches

She has a whole bunch of different patterns ranging from tops and dresses for little girls, to camera bag accessories, to ireader covers and purses....go check it out!

What I need to Sew List

2011-05-19T12:03:00.000-07:00

I'm going to add a what I need to sew list on my sidebar so I can keep myself organized instead of starting a lot of different projects at once...does anyone else do that?! I find myself saying "Oh I need to do this" than I find something really cute and think...oh that would be fun...but I want to finish up some of my unfinished items before I start cutting out new things!

So on the side of my blog you'll see what I'm working on. The only thing that will take lead over all is a dress pattern I'm testing for a friend. Her computer crashed so we are still waiting for the pattern to come to us to test but until that comes I'll start working on some other stuff!

Kid's Clothes Week Challenge - May 9-15

2011-05-09T09:40:00.000-07:00

I have seen Kids Clothes Week Challenge for a couple of years but never partcipated, well I've decided to give it a try this year (although I'm not so sure how well I will do with everything else going on). ;)

The Goal for kcwc:

Work on making clothes for kids one hour each day for a week.

This doesn't mean you have to sew the whole time, you can cut out your patterns , knit, crochet, anything pertaining to sewing counts. I'm sure I will spend a good amount of time using my seam ripper and it seems we are close friends these day! ;)

You can see more info here: http://www.elsiemarley.com/kids-clothes-week-challenge-faq.html

Oh and it starts today!!!

So get your sewing stuff ready and start washing, ironing, tracing, cutting, sewing, seam ripping, crocheting, knitting....anything pertaining to making kids clothes!

I plan on coming back to this post each day and logging what I did for that day:

Monday: made a pattern from a pair of shorts Van already had, sewed up the pair of shorts from a shirt daddy has had since he was 14 year old (and yes he's 28 now). Washed up some tshirts to make into summer shirts and shorts for Van. Made my list of things I needed to get sewn or cut out this week to start wit summer sewing for Annika, Van, and new baby girl joining our family at the beginning of August.

Tuesday: Today I edited the pattern I made for Van's shorts yesterday (I think I might have to do it yet again), good thing I'm not a pattern maker. ;) I might give it another try tomorrow. I need a break from the shorts! Okay so I couldn't leave the pattern thing alone...lol. I sewed up another pair of shorts for Van looks like they might work!! :)

Wednesday: Today I've tried drafting a pants pattern for Van (I give up). I found one to print, but it's to big. We'll just leave it at that. I am now working on some cotton big butt baby pants for the new bean due in August. I used a pattern found here for free. I also may cut out a Rockin' the Reglan Tee found here out of some old shirts for Van (he needs some outside shirts), if I have time. I've pretty much used up my whole hour for today. Wednesday tend to be busy as we have church and the youth group meets in my house so I need to make sure the house is clean. We also have story time at the library which we don't care to miss since it's the one day of the week we for sure get out of the house (and out of Sunrise). ;)

UPATE: I did finish my week up strong (I however missed Saturday as we had a teen activity and I needed to get the house clean for it, but I did more than 1 hour most days that I did sew so I'm counting that as my Saturday! ;)

I can't finish writing exactly what I got done b/c I can't remember (blaming it on the pregnancy brain)! :)

But I did finish out strong!

I didn't get much sewing in besides what I wrote at the beginning of the week, but got a lot of patterns traced and cut out!

I am thankful for the challenge as I got a lot accomplished and even tried some new things (even though it didn't pan out). :)

A New Apron for Van (tester)

2011-04-15T04:50:00.000-07:00

I was signed up to test an apron pattern for a lady on my DSD board. I love the way this turned out.

I wasn't to sure about it when I started, I used some fabric that I had purchased from the thrift store (for real cheap). But it was kind of boring, so I added a little flair! :)

The overall apron. I added the tag (which says Totally Handmade) b/c it looked a bit off since the snapped part that goes around DS neck overlapped but the other strap didn't overlap the fabric. I think it really balances the apron out well!

A Close up of the top Applique.

But it's not your normal applique, it's actually a pocket!

And my little model! He loves the frog!

This was a really easy pattern to put together...you should see the girly one that is going a long with this!!! I'll share it when the pattern comes out for sale!!!

Thanks for looking!

Oh and by the way do you remmeber the Rockin' the Reglan Shirt I made for my Van-man? I posted about it here. Well Bonnie over at Fish Sticks and Fries has now released the Rockin' the Raglan Tee pattern along with her Lazy Days Lounge Set (another very cute pattern)! Go have a peak! While you're over there check out her other patterns. I posted about her Little One Layette Pattern here.

2 More Book Reivews

2011-04-13T01:56:00.000-07:00

Another Dawn - Kathryn Cushman

Grace Graham a single mother of a little boy struggled with having to go home and care for her dad. The dad whom she hasn’t really ever had a relationship with. The dad that cut her off many years ago. But after surgery he is in need of help and her sister just isn’t able to do.
So Grace heads home little did she know that the choices she made a few years ago would cause so many heart ache and problems.

This book was not what I expected at all. Cushman did a great job with her characters and setting. I however was not a huge fan of the story line. Maybe I thought it was a little to controversial for sit down and fun read. While I didn’t dislike the book, I just have heard arguments way to often on the vaccination issue which maybe has gotten me a overwhelmed with the whole debate. I was disappointed by how little God was mentioned in the book and who God really was. They did mention going to church a few times, but I would of like to hear the book expound more on who God is and what he meant to Grace in her life.

I would be willing to read another book by Cushman, but I probably wouldn’t recommend this one to anyone.

I received a free copy of this book for the purpose to reviewing from Bethany House Publishing Company.

Paradise Valley - Dale Cramer

I have read a lot of Amish historical fiction books and many times they seem to all be the same. This was however not the case. I thought the story line a good story line. I liked the fact that the 5 Amish men stood up for what they believed was right even when they knew it would cost them.

I thought it interesting how he portrayed the Weaver family looking into their new beginnings in Mexico and the way they saw people and the country side. How it must of felt to move where no one understand you and you knew no one.

I thought over all the author did a good job with this book and would read more from him!

I received a free copy of this book courtesy Bethany House Publishing Company for the purpose of reviewing.

Diapers.....girly!! Lots of Pics

2011-04-05T10:33:00.000-07:00

This is my first time making a Girly Newborn Diaper!! I didn't start cloth diapering Annika until she was around 6 or 7 months old. I made Van a few newborn diapers, but not to many (I'm afraid I didn't do a very good job clothe diaper). I plan to stick with it this time as it seems I will have 2 in diapers at the same time (Van told me he's not going to potty train)! ;)

Here's what I got done so far!

All three together:

I think they turned out pretty good for my first time serging diapers and using the Darling Diaper Unlimited Pattern.

If you are looking into cloth diapering and want to make your I highly recommend this pattern you can make any diaper out there with this pattern! You can find more information here!

A New Shirt for Van

2011-04-03T14:52:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to share a picture of Van that I took about a week ago. . :) He's getting so big! He's getting ready to turn 21 months old and he is amazing us everyday with the things he is learning!

This is the shirt I made for him. I wasn't allowed to share it until now as it was in the testing stage (I was one of the testers). I had so much fun making this shirt! It was my first time making a shirt out of knit (stretchy t-shirt-like material) and doing neck binding. The neck binding was A TON easier than I thought (I don't know what I was so afraid of). I have wanted to tackle neck binding for awhile now.

This shirt was really cheap to make as all the fabric you see is from the thrift store (striped fabric was $2 for 4 yards and red fabric $1.50 for 3 yards) except the neck binding. I had a hard time getting it off him and he really liked it!

I have one more made, it's just waiting for some neck binding (which I'm waiting for a piece to arrive in my mailbox from a friend). ;)

Baby Update!

2011-03-29T15:26:00.001-07:00

It's a GIRL!!!!

Annika was very excited to hear this! When the ultrasound tech said "it's a girl" Annika put her fist in the air and had a big smile on her face!

I have a few pictures to share. We got well over 15 pictures (and a DVD) but baby wasn't co-operating to well so the pictures aren't the greatest (I think that's why we ended up with so many, the ultra sound tech I think felt bad).

A few pictures:

Everything is checking out good! Baby weighs in about 13 ounces and my due date is the same (August 13th).

The only problem is that I have placenta previa. Which is common in pregnancy (although this is the first time I've had it). Basically it means the placenta is in the way of delivering baby and if the placenta doesn't move up than a C-section is required (you can read more if you click on the link, if you want the long version). In most preganacies this rights itself and by the end things are just fine. I'm guessing ours will also, but just in case I go back in at 28 weeks for another ultrasound. I can't complain to much as I've only had one ultrasound for each child, so I'm looking forward to see what baby looks like at 28 weeks. :)

And less you think they could be wrong (since they were with Annika) we'll take a second look than! :)

Newborn Gown and Matching Hat

2011-03-26T12:44:00.000-07:00

I recently purchased this pattern from Bonnie at Fishstick Design. I was going to wait until we find out what this little bean was before I sewed something up. But I've had this pattern for almost a week and couldn't bring myself to wait!

I found the fabric at the thrift store and will be very sad when it's gone. I purchased 4 yards of it for only $2.50!

This was my second time doing neck binding. It's A LOT easier than I thought it would be!! I don't know what I was so afraid of! :)

Onto the pictures!

The tag is in the center back of the gown.

If we find out this little bean is a girl I may add a flower to the hat to give it a bit more color, we shall see. :)

Bonnie has some great patterns out there. If you are looking for some go take a look. A lot of her patterns are for knit fabric (which I'm just learning to sew with and love it)! My first project with knit binding was a shirt I was testing for Bonnie. I LOVE the way it turned out. I will share that later when her pattern comes out! :)

The little hat is from this tutorial from over at Make it and Love it!

Book Review: Plain Proposal - By Beth Wiseman

2011-03-18T06:35:00.000-07:00

Plain Proposal
By Beth Wiseman

Saul was keeping a secret, one that if let out may possibly tear his family apart for a long time. Burden not long ago with the loss of his mother and dear sister this is something he doesn’t not want to happen. But Saul also has big dreams, dreams of living in the world and doing something he loves to do. How is he going to accomplish both of these goals at once??

Rumor has it that Saul plans on leaving the Amish community. Miriam has loved Saul for years! She has vowed to follow him anywhere. Even if it meant leaving her Amish community, family and all she’s ever known to a world where she’s never been.

I was a bit learly of reviewing another Amish book. So often these books are kind of the same. The battle between young love to see if they would leave the Amish faith or continue to stay in it. I am however glad I picked up this book because it’s outcome was something I had not seen coming. However, the one thing I would of liked to have seen is more about their faith (Miriam’s faith is shared a bit about how her parents raised her and that she was strong and could live anywhere and still trust her faith), but we never got to what she really believed.

Beth Wiseman did a good job of sharing her characters with us. While part of the book was a bit predictable (as I said above I think most Amish historical fiction books are). Overall I enjoyed the book, it was a good read on a cold day.

I received a free copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishing (through BookSneeze) for the purpose of reviewing.

Van "Performs" ;)

2011-03-15T21:10:00.000-07:00

I put this in the wrong spot (it was suppose to be on our family blog, it will go there also)...but I'll keep it here! :)

____________________________

Donovan took a short nap today (only about 1.5 hours). I'm not sure he was feeling all that great when I put him down tonight. But he had a good afternoon (he actually slept less than his sister...which is saying a lot b/c she's not a big napper, but she's just getting over being sick...the good ole' MN crud...as called by many people near us).

But I was able to take a few videos of him and the things he has learned:

First up is a video of him counting. We are thinking he learned to count from Annika for two main reasons.
1) I know personally I have not worked with him all that much, and...
2) He skips the number 12 when he counts...so does his sister! :)

Next ups is a video of him singing the ABC's (w/ help). But he does a pretty good job! :)

He also loves the Tupperware shape ball.

He's been able to put the shapes in these for a bit now. I love to watch him (and Annika) learn new things. He's definitely learning a lot! Now if we could just get him to tell me he has to go potty BEFORE he goes! ;) But he's still little still! :)

Birthday Crowns and Skirt...

2011-03-08T12:44:00.000-08:00

Annika just celebrated her fourth birthday! Boy does time fly (I never believed it until I had a child of my own)!

I put to use that cupcake material that I found at the thrift store (blogged about it in the previous post).

Here's a picture of the birthday girl!

And here's close up of the skirt! You can find the pattern here.

I also made felt crowns for all the little princess that came to the party!

More detailed:

Thanks for letting me share!

Thrift Store Fabric Find...

2011-02-16T11:21:00.000-08:00

I get a lot of my fabric from thrift stores! Well today I stoped at a thrift store in town that changed ownership (which I didn't know about). The lady remembered me from visiting one in another town, which I visited only once before Annika was born (I purchased a changing table from there). I was shocked she remembered me and remembered that I was a young pastor's wife. Talk about a good business owner.

As I was browsing I noticed she had a just a tiny bit of fabric (something like 3 different types). When I got to the bottom of the pile I came onto this!

How cute is that?!?! The best thing I paid only $2.99 for 3 yards! It's still selling at Joann's for $7.49 a yard (and never even washed)!!

Hmmm...project....I have a sweet little girl who is going to be turning 4 in less than a month....wouldn't a cute Amelia top like this or this look sweet for her birthday party?!

Book Review - Fruit of the Spirit: Love

2011-02-12T14:34:00.000-08:00

Fruit of the Spirit: Love
By Calvin Miller

This day in age so many people use the world love so flippantly. Many people don't know the true meaning of love. Many times love is veiwed in teh wrong way. One of the greatest types of love seen in this world is a self-love. How can I love myself better? I deserves this because I need to love myself more? How can I be fullfilled? If only someone loved me like that.

These are all wrong views of love. Calvin Miller in his Bible Study book Fruit of the Spirit: Love shows how love is portrayed according to the Gospel.

I've not read anything from Calvin Miller before, but I found this book to be pretty basic when teaching about love. I guess it is not something I would hand over to someone who has been saved for many years and is desireing true "meat" of the Word of God, but for someone who is newly saved and looking for the "milk" of the Gospel, this would be a good beginning.

One thing I wish this book had was more scripture reference. I'm not sure that I would consider it a true Bible Study since there is one basic Scripture reading at the beginning and than an explanation of what you read. There are some though provoking questions at the end of each chapter. But when I think of a Bible Study I expect to get more into the Bible than just the reading the Scripture at the beginning.

The questions for personal reflection at the end of each chapter are okay to ask your self, but many tend to say what can "I" do to change this, how do "I" feel loved, things like that. I would of liked to dig deeper into the Bible and learn more that way and than maybe ask myself some of those question.

I would sit down and go through the book with a new Believer. The book had some good points on love (basic enough for new Believers to grasp and chew on), but I would probably skip the reflection questions.

I received a free copy of the book from Thomas Nelson Publishing Company through BookSneeze for the purpose of reviewing.

Van got a New Shirt

2011-01-29T07:44:00.000-08:00

Now normally I wouldn't share all of Van's clothes with you (unless I sewed them), but I didn't sew this one (I actually got it for pretty cheap)! But it's a pretty cool shirt!

Sorry it is not the greatest picture, but I have a little 19 month old that is almost impossible to make him stand still! ;) Also pardon the "stain" on the shirt (it's actually a wet spot). :)

Looks like sometime around August 13th we will be adding one more to our already crazy family. We're excited, but a bit nervous (as we will now be outnumbered)! ;)

On another note: (just thought of this) I went looking for a shirt for my little guy and the smallest I could fine was a 2T. My little man is just now moving out of 12 month shirts.

Book Review - Beneath the Night Tree - Nicole Baart

2011-01-25T16:57:00.000-08:00

Beneath the Night Tree

Julia Desmit had a unique life. She was the single mother of a 5 year old boy. But along with being a single mother to her son, she was also taking care of her 10 year old half brother. All together they lived with Julia’s grandmother a sweet older lady.
Julia had a good job, loved her family and was engaged to Michael, the man of her dreams! What Julia didn’t expect was an email from a man she hadn’t seen or heard from since the day he turned away from in a parking lot. An email from Parker, her son’s father. Little did she know that her life was about to be turned upside down. Searching for where she belongs.

This is the first book I’ve ready by Nicole Baart. She did a wonderful job introducing her characters. You didn’t have to try and wonder what they were thinking as she clearly stated it. Her story was something you could really see happening now days. Someone searching for the faith they once had and a place they belonged. I did thoroughly enjoy this book. I read the book in two sittings. I can’t wait to read another book from this author!

I received a free copy of the this book from Tyndale Publishing Company for the purpose of reviewing.

Christmas Outfits

2011-01-14T09:05:00.000-08:00

Okay so this is a bit late in coming....

Here's a picture of Annika's dress before I "spruced" it up a bit. I got the dress off the clearance rack last year for $7. I thought it was pretty cute, and than I pulled it out of her closet a couple days before our Ladies Christmas Tea at church and it looked a bit boring to me. I didn't plan on her wearing the pink shirt with the dress it's just what she had on at the time.

I took the sash off and added my own and put some ribbon around the bottom that matched the sash.

Along with Annika's outfit I also made a few pieces to add to Donovan's black pants and white dress shirt. I had some red with white polk-a-dot fabric hanging around my house (left over from this project). So I whipped up this tie (which was really easy to make I got the pattern from here. The tie was really easy to put together and I LOVE the way it looks on my little man. I plan to make more of these in the future. Along with the tie I also purchased the reversible newsboy hat pattern from her site. I made one to go with his outfit but will share that in another post. :)

Along with the tie I made Van's vest out of some left over velvet I had from this project (from a long time ago). The pattern from the vest was something I found free online from here.

Without further ado...my Van-man in his Christmas outfit.

And after taking almost 350 pictures of them together...this was the best I could get of the both of them together!

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and Happy New Year! :)

Leggings!

2011-01-10T10:02:00.000-08:00

I was fortunate enough to earn a spot to test a leggings pattern for a friend!

These leggings are so much fun to make and very easy! I made 3 pairs in one day!

You can find the leggings pattern here at her Etsy Shop! While you're there check out some of her other great patterns!!!

Can you tell she loves them!!

Book Review: A Time to Dance

2011-01-07T09:54:00.000-08:00

A Time to Dance
Karen Kingsbury

A perfect couple...does it exist?? Everyone thought John and Abby were perfect. What people did not know that they were about to call it quits on their marriage. How had things gotten so bad? Is it possible to fix their marriage? The one thing they did agree on was to wait until the after the wedding of their daughter to tell their children that they were getting a divorce.

I have read a few of Karen Kingsbury books and have really enjoyed them. This book was not a disappointment. Wow, what a great book! Although this is a fiction book, I have heard many couple battle with many of the same issues that John and Abby had to deal with. The characters were well thought out, the plot made sense. This book was very well written! I will definitely be looking for the next book in this series!

Thanks to Thomas Nelson Publishing through Book Sneeze for the free copy of this book for the purpose of reviewing!

3 Book Reviews!!!

2010-12-15T08:44:00.000-08:00

I'm pretty behind right now and life is just now slowing down (well for the week). But I really needed to get these book reviews finished up. I read these books about a month ago (I told you I was behind).

A Rush of Wings
Kristen Hietzmann

I began reading this book and got a strange sense of déjà vu. The further I got into the book, the more I knew what would happen. Was the book predictable?!? No I have read it before. But I remember the first time that I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I enjoyed just as much the second time through. I would recommend this book to others.

Noelle St. Claire is fleeing from her own fears. She leaves her wealthy upbringing and finds herself on a horse ranch owned by Rick Spencer. Along with Rick at the ranch is Morgan (his brother). As one brother tries to win her love (at the beginning) the other sits back and wonders about her secrets. She longs to be free of her fear. One of the brothers helps her to conquer her fear.

I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House Publishing Company for the purpose of reviewing.

Amy Inspired
Bethany Pierce

Rejected by publisher after publisher Amy Gallagher is starting to get frustrated and discouraged. She realizes that she needs to change the course of her life. Than she meets Eli (friend of her roommate). Eli is handsome, mysterious but also unavailable and Amy is having a hard time being “just friends.” She is also discourage because her family and friends seem to be going on with their life and she is still stuck in the same rut. This forces her to take a look at her faith, her life, her ambitions and goals. Will she decide to branch out and follow her dreams or will she play it safe?

I thought this book was an okay book. I had a hard time getting into it. I thought the difference between Amy and her roommate were comical and I enjoy the exchanges they had. I probably wouldn’t recommend this book to others as it wasn’t my favorite.

I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House Publishing Company for the purpose of reviewing.

Hatteras Girl
by Alice J. Wisler

Jackie Donovan is ambitious and has lots of dreams. One is to meet a man she could marry. She meets Davis Erickson. Her next dream is to own her own Bed and Breakfast in the Outer Banks. This is hard as she tries to put together the finanacing to purchase the place she dreams of owning (the place she would visit as a child). Her third dream is to not be set up for blind dates by people in her family. All the men her family has tried to set her up with have turned out all wrong!

So with all these things seeming to fall in place, until secrets start to come out about Davis Erickson and the Bed and Breakfast she dreams of owning. Does she want to know the truths of these secrets? Will they ruin her dreams?

I enjoyed reading this book! Jackie Donovan was a believable character who has dreams and ambitions like a lot of people. She has a choice to make on whether she wants to risk those dreams to find out the truth. That decision is always a hard one and not everyone wants to know the truth. I would recommend this book to others. I enjoyed the other characters in the book and the setting of the book.

I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House Publishing Company for the purpose of reviewing.

Baby Shower Gift

2010-10-29T00:00:00.000-07:00

My neighbor and friend is expecting a little baby girl (due in December). I woke up the day of her shower and had the urge to sew. Both of my kids and PD were still in bed, so I thought, "why not." I got up and "threw" together this little baby gift for her!

The pants are from the Katrina Soaker pattern and tutorial found here:

The Bib is also from a tutorial online (I just can't remember from where):

The hat is from my own concoction: I made Donovan and similar one you can see here:

And just in case you didn't think they'd fit a new born (the pants at least) this is a newborn diaper.

Owls and Hoodies

2010-10-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

Remember this hoodie and this hoodie?!? From Heidi and Finn (The Urban Unisex Hoodie). I LOVE this pattern (but I already said that in previous posts). I have had this one in the works for about a month now and finally finished it up yesterday! This is by far my favorite one so far!

The Front: This was taken before I added the snaps.

The Snaps: I covered them with material left over from the owl fabric

The Back: I LOVE this Owl material from JoAnns. I got what was left in the remnants bin (and I'm glad I picked it up...I even have some left over)!

I think she likes it also!!

Another Ameila Top

2010-10-23T11:33:00.000-07:00

I made another Amelia Top!

I'm very happy with my fabric choice for this one!

Photography: The Kiddos...Fall Photos

2010-10-16T07:10:00.000-07:00

In February P.D. got me a new camera, a Nikon D5000. I.LOVE.IT!! I have slowly been learning my way around it. I was able to get some nice fall photos of the kids a couple of weeks ago!

This one cracks me up...he's checking' out his socks!

On a side note: I'm out of books to review until my new batch comes in so maybe we'll get some sewing stuff in. We've been on "vacation" this week, we decided to stay home and shingle and side a house! ;) Unfortunately we did not get the siding on (due to some set backs) but the house is shingled and we are thankful for that (and for the in-laws that took vacation time to come and help us)!! We were also thankful for the wonderful weather we had. Next we are moving on to the siding! Not sure when that will get done, but we are going to go away for the weekend.

Book Review: Adventures in BoogaBooga Land (Volume 1)

2010-10-15T06:32:00.000-07:00

Not really a book Review, but a DVD Review

Based on the Parables of Jesus, join Marty the monkey and Gerard the giraffe as they bungle their way thru the paradise of Booga Booga Land inadvertently learning lessons that Jesus taught many years ago.
So This is Booga: Marty and Gerard meet for the first time in the city of Booga Booga, becoming instant best friends. Early one morning they decide to become window washers for a day to earn 20 bamolies. But when they see the boss also give 20 bamolies the other works who arrived late in the day, Martya and Gerard want to know why. (Based on the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard from Matthew 20:1-16)
Marty’s Sandcastle Marty and Gerard decide to go to carpentry school, taught by the German instructor Mr. Guudsaw. After graduating, they each decide to build their own home. But one night a great storm destroys Marty’s flimsy house. (Based on the Parable of the Wise and the Foolish Builders from Luke 06:47-49)
No Light In This Lighthouse: Marty gets a bright idea to build a lighthouse, but ends up rushing the job when he sees that there are ships being lost while he works! (Based on the Parable of the Lamp Under the Bowl from Matthew 5:14-16)
(Taken from website)

My Review: While I found this entertaining and cute. While the cartoons did correspond with the verses mentioned above, I didn’t find much Biblical truth in it. There was no discussion about Bible truths in the movie. We did sit down and talk to my two children (mainly 3 year old since she understands more) and shared the similarities of the movie and the Parable. My 3 year old and 1 year old really liked the movies (the characters were fun, bright, and kept your attention). I did however think that they shared good moral principles and I would let my kids watch them again.

I received a free copy of this movie from Tommy Nelson (a division of Thomas Nelson Publishing Company) via Book Sneeze for the purpose of reviewing.

Book Review: Masquerade - Nancy Moser

2010-10-13T05:45:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you but I always wondered if the servants that worked for really rich people ever thought of what it would be like to be them. I'm sure they have. Well in the book Masquerade by Nancy Moser, Dora got to experience first hand what it was like to switch places with her best friend and Mistress Charlotte Gleason (did I mention she was rich)?!? As these two young women one a maid and one a Mistress travel to America to embark on a new journey in their life. "They risked it all for adventure and romance, but find that love only flourishes in truth." A journey full of hard truths and reality, but also a life full of love and a lot of growing up.

I put this book at the top of my read list (the cover was interesting and caught my attention right away). However,I had a hard time getting into this book, I found myself putting the book down to the bottom of my stack of review books and it was the last book I finished. t I felt like this book dragged a bit. I did however enjoy the point of views from the rich girl and the maid. I also enjoyed the characters both had very different personalities. I found parts rather funny and both characters clever in many ways. I really wished the book wouldn't of drug so much is some parts. I would like to read some more from Nancy Moser and see what her other books are like.

I received a free copy of this book courtesy of Bethany Publishing Company for the purpose of reviewing.

Building a House

2010-10-10T05:08:00.000-07:00

Yep, we're still going through this process and a busy one it is (hence the lack of blog entries except for book reviews and I still have a couple more to do)! But I wanted to drop by and show you the progress on our house.

I shared the plans in this post.

We have always called our lot that we own "the land" well it's not looking like just "the land" anymore, it's looking more like "a house" but Lord willing by the first couple of weeks in January it will be "a home!"

Here's the way it looks so far (w/ a few aditions, the subfacia is in and there is plywood on the roof and the garage is finished!

You can see more of what the inside looks like by going to our family blog! There's a tour!

Book Review: The Vigilante's Bride - Yvonne Harris

2010-10-01T06:00:00.000-07:00

Luke Sullivan a hard-hearted man is not happy with the way his life is. He is especially angry at a man who stole his inheritance. Wanting to get back that which was his he robbed this man’s stage coach little did he know that there would be a young woman on the coach. A woman who was to be the bride of the man that he despised so much. Emily McCarthy didn’t like that Luke had kidnapped her, sent to marry a man she did not know had no idea that the man she was to marry was not a kind man. But than she realizes that she just may have feelings for the man who saved her from what could of been and ugly marriage to a mean man.

I have to say I judged this book by it’s cover, I moved it to the bottom of the stack it just did not look that interesting and looked to be a boring book. While it was not the best book that I have read lately it definitely was not the worse! The story was somewhat unbelievable (but isn't that the good thing about nonfiction books?!?). However, I found her characters to be interesting and she did a good job developing each character!

I received a free copy of this book courtesy of Bethany Publishing Company for the purpose of reviewing

2 More Book Reviews: To "Warm" the "Heart" ;)

2010-09-29T07:00:00.000-07:00

In Every Heartbeat - Kim Bogel Sawyer

“Three best friends, three cherished dreams, three searching hearts...”

Libby, Pete, and Bennett were three close friends that grew up in an orphanage together. Than attended college together. Each with big dreams of their own. Libby Conley’s dream was to become a famous journalist, Pete had the hope of becoming a minister of the Gospel, and Bennett was looking for a place to belong, his dream was to join in on a fraternity at the college. As the days go by these three friends grow further apart. Will these friends grow back together as secrets are uncovered and friendship is tested?

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I enjoyed getting to know each of the characters and thought Sawyer did a good job developing each character. The story kept my interests as I watched the life of three people with similar backgrounds, reaching toward different dreams and how each ones attitude and actions turned them into who they were at the end of the book. I would recommend this book to others.

Thanks to Bethany House Publishing Company for the free copy of this book so that I had the opportunity to review it.

Within My Heart - Tamera Alexander
Reflection Series Book #3

“Sometime the Greatest Step of Faith is Taken Neck-deep in Fear”
Isn’t that true?!? Rachel Boyd learns this in this truth very well as the story of her struggle to keep her ranch going, and be a good mother to her boys after the death of her husband. When she is faced with the loss of yet another loved one she is forced to trust Rand Brookston a doctor like her father, although nothing like her father. Will she learn to trust her heart and learn to love again?!

I thought this book was pretty good, I enjoyed the story line however I would of like a little bit more action. Things seem to have been kind of predictable as of what would of happened in the story. This was the first book I have read from Alexander and I would be willing to read more from her.

I received a free copy of this book courtesy of Bethany House Publishing Company for the purpose of reviewing the book.

Book Review: Pursuit of Justice - DiAnn Mills

2010-09-25T10:13:00.000-07:00

Call of Duty Series Book #3

“For centuries, the legend of the Spider Rock Treasure has lured people to West Texas with promises of unimaginable wealth. And it just claimed three more victims.”

Bella Jordan, an FBI agent was sent to West Texas to solve the ministry of these murders. Sent home to the many memories of her past life, memories that she would eventually have to let go of.

The murders occurred at the ranch of Carr Sullivan a man who had come to Christ, but was known for his easy fixes to things with his anger and his fists. Trying to prove his innocence he tries to team up with Bella (who at first thinks he is the murder). They work together to find the killer(s) and eventually find love also.

Mills did a great job introducing her characters. The book was suspenseful and was a good in that aspect. I did however find that the book did drag a bit in some places and it took a bit for me to get into it.

I received a free copy of this book courtesy of Tyndale Publishing Company for the purpose of reviewing.

Book Review: Love's First Bloom - Delia Parr

2010-09-23T08:06:00.000-07:00

Ruth Livingstone’s life was about to change in a way she did not expect. Her father, Reverend Livingstone, a minister to the prostitutes, puts a small child in her arms and send her to a small village in New Jersey to live a secret life as Widow Mallory. She finds comfort tending a small Garden near the Tom River

Where she meets with Jake Spencer a carpenter. But Jake has a secret of his own, he is not the carpenter he says he is but rather a newspaper reporter who is trying to redeem himself to his brother. He is sent to find Ruth Livingstone the pastor’s daughter and unfold the story of what is going on with the secrets surrounding the death of the prostitute and Ruth’s Father. Little did he know that he would find Ruth Livingstone wonderful and fall in love with her. How can he cover a story and reveal the whereabouts of the woman he loves?

This book wasn’t for me. I find it hard to image why a man would be ministering to prostitutes and entering the Brothels to do so. I’m not so sure I see this as a good plot to a story. I would rather see a woman witnessing to prostitutes than a man. Other than that the book was a bit predictable and at some spots seem to drag a bit. This was my first book by Delia Parr and I’d be willing to try a few more. She did a good job introducing her characters and surroundings.

I received a free copy of this book courtesy of Bethany House Publishing for the purpose of reviewing.

Book Review: The Boy Who Changed the World - Andy Andrews

2010-09-20T16:46:00.000-07:00

Everyone wants to make a difference in the world and this book it’s about a young boy who feeds 2 billion people, but not only was it him, but a line of others that were important and connected with him that helped feed the world.

I enjoyed this book the pictures were great the history in the book was fun!
However, it was a bit hard to follow, I had a hard time connecting the new boy to the previous boy (which made me have to flip back and forth between the pages). I started to read the story to my 3 year old daughter but she quickly lost interest in the words and just wanted to look at the pictures. I do however know some older children that would love this book. I think it helps to teach us a great lesson about the choices we make everyday of our lives.

I received a free copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Publishing Company (through Book Sneeze) for the purpose of reviewing.

The Charlotte Dress

2010-09-15T07:09:00.000-07:00

When I purcased the Amelia top pattern, I also purchased the Charlotte Dress pattern from Mama Stellato The fabric for this dress came from a man in our church who got it for us. I wasn't sure what to add with it to make it pop so I had some of this orange gingham in my stash. If you look close (kind of hard to tell in the pictures) but the center of the flowers are green and orange. I think the orange really makes it look cheerful!

I made the dress a 5T (with some added length because of the orange gingham at the bottom). I did however end up bringing it in on the sides and sleeves (after the pictures were taken). I'm glad I decided to do this as it fits her better (she originally just moved up to a 4T and I probably should of stuck with that size).

Make sure you check out Mama Stellato's blog for new and upcoming patterns or you can check her Etsy Shop!

Amelia Top

2010-09-09T18:59:00.000-07:00

I just purchased two new patterns this past week from Etsy. The first was the Amelia top. I LOVE. LOVE. LOVE the way this turned out!!

It was pretty easy to sew (a few pattern issues, but they are getting straightened out). I did the 5T size (although she could fit in the 4T one just fine). I did a few things different.
1) I used bias tape for the under arm parts (the tutorial says to just fold it over twice and top stitch).
2) I also used my serger as much as I could (instead of finishing the edges with a zigzag stitch).
3) I also used snaps instead of buttons. I just purchased a snap pliers and this is the second time I've used them....so long button holes!! ;)
4) Lastly, I added about 2.5 inches to the bottom to make it longer.

It went together really fast (well as fast as it could with two kiddos that weren't to happy).

I purchased the fabric from Walmart about a year ago for $1 (before they upped the price on their clearance fabric to $1.50). I am however happy that we still have a fabric section in a couple of the Walmarts nearby!!

On to some pictures!!

First up: the overall look of the shirt

A closer look at the top

The hem line

Just because she's silly

I definitely see more of these in my future!

One for the Girl (post deleted)

2010-08-24T16:44:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure why, but it seems my blog post has been deleted!

So I'll rewrite it!

I finished A's Urban Unisex Hoodie! I LOVE this pattern and know that it will be one of my most "go to" patterns! It's a bit big (I made the 5T) but she'll grow into it right?!?! I'm happy with the way it turned out. I plan on making more! I have one in in the works for Van. I also have one other idea of what to do with this cute apple fabric....you'll just have to stay tuned!

A Whole New Journey...

2010-08-21T00:00:00.000-07:00

I've not done a lot of sewing with knit fabric. The other day P.D. took the teens from our youth group to ValleyFair so I thought well he's going to be gone all day, maybe I could find someone to watch the kiddos. So I called up the neighbor lady and she was happy to watch them (and my kiddos were VERY happy to go play)! So off I went that morning to do one of my most favorite things....thrift store shop. I had some specific things in mind. I wanted to make Miss A. a hoodie like the one I made Van in the previous post. But my problem was I didn't have any knit fabric to match the fleece that I had for her. So my intentions were to go to the thrift store and find some old tshirts that would match and use that for knit. The couple that I go to don't usually have great selections when it comes to fabric. Well I was in luck this time I hit the jackpot (okay I don't really gamble)! ;) But I got the 5 rolls of knit you see here over 6 yards for $5.75!!! What a great deal. I needed to pick some more stuff up at Walmart so I thought I'd cruise through their fabric department (this is one of the stores near us keeping their fabric department, which is really nice b/c the closes I live to a JoAnn Fabric store is about 50 miles away). But Walmart had this CUTE apple print (waffle knit) on their clearance table for $1.50 (so I purchased 5 yards, can't go wrong with that price). So now I embark on the journey of sewing with knits!

I also have my eyes set on this pattern and tutorial! What a great way to welcome the cooler weather than a cute dress like this with the cute apple print!

Van's New Sweatshirt

2010-08-16T13:33:00.000-07:00

A friend (whom I don't know in real life) showed a picture of this adorable sweatshirt that she made for her little girl and posted the link of where I could find it. So away I went to etsy to find this adorable sweatshirt pattern! To my wonderful surprise I found it and it was very affordable! Not only that but it was a unisex pattern, one I could use for both of my kiddos! The size went from a 6 month all the way up to a 5T. It's called the Urban Unisex Hoodie Pattern. I decided to make one first for Van (just in case I messed up I wouldn't be out that much fabric) and I had what I needed on hand. So I found some nice lime green fleece and some brown knit fabric and went to work. I LOVE this sweatshirt. I was a bit intimidated when I first looked at the directions but it's sooo simple to put together and I can't wait to get started on one for Annika. I plan to make Van another with also!

I have yet to add the buttons. However I'm having trouble with this part so I'm thinking about investing in a snap pliers so that I can do snaps. I guess you can't do button holes on fleece to easily.

Here's some modeling shots!

Isn't he just adorable!!!! I can't believe how big he's gotten! The flap is where the 3 buttons will be placed.

Because we all NEED another cookie recipe!!

2010-08-10T00:00:00.000-07:00

I'm pretty sure like me, most of you *NEED* this recipe! I got it from a friend!!

These babies are GOOD!!

Monster cookies

1 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup butter softened
1-1/4 cups packed brown sugar
...1 cup sugar
3 eggs
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 cups quick-cooking oats
1 cup M&M's
1 cup butterscotch chips
1 cup salted peanuts
2 cups flour

In a large mixing bowl, cream peanut butter, butter and sugars. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add baking soda and vanilla. Add oats, M$M's, butterscotch chips and peanuts; let stand for 10 minutes. Stir in flour (the dough will be crumbly). Shape 1/4 cupfuls into balls. Place on greased baking sheets, about nine cookies on each sheet. Gently flatten cookies. Bake at 325 for 15-18 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Remove to wire racks.
Makes about 2 1/2 dozen.

And I thought we were busy now....

2010-08-06T00:00:00.001-07:00

Life is about to get more busy for us! No I'm not pregnant!!! We are in the beginning process of building a house! For the past 5 years we have lived in the church parsonage (which was a blessing) but I'm ready to have my own home! We had plans drawn up a bit ago and we are soo VERY excited to embark on this next new adventure in our life. Right now we currently live across the parking lot from the church when we build our house we will only be about a block away! What a blessing it is have a church family behind us!

What will happen to the parsonage we now live in you ask?!?! Well it will be converted into a church annex which will house a pastor's study (which is VERY much needed as P.D. has been studying in the church office/Pastor's study) and we will have space for Sunday School classrooms (also very much needed) and downstairs we will have a place where the teens can meet on Wednesday Evenings besides in my living room (not that I didn't enjoy it, but this will be so much easier)!!

Want to see my house plans?!? I'm not sure how big they will be or if you can even make anything out on them, but here they are!

We went with smaller bedrooms and bathrooms and went for larger kitchen, living, and dinning area since we LOVE to entertain and have people over! We will eventually finish off the basement as the funds come in, but for now it will be unfinished but think of the HUGE sewing room I will have (as there will be no walls down there to begin with!! ;)

Be prepared to go on a photo tour of our "Building a House Project" throughout the next 6-9 months. I plan on sharing what's going on and what has been accomplished during this time!

Book Review: Whisper on the Wind - Maureen Lang

2010-08-03T12:00:00.000-07:00

I had the wonderful opportunity of reviewing an advanced reader's copy of this book that isn't set to publish until September. This book takes you back to Belgium in 1916 during the German coruption of World War I.

During this time in history Germany has conquered Belgium, but Belgium has not accepted defeat. An underground paper surfaces to keep the hope of the Belgium people alive. This paper is called the La Libre Belgique (a real paper during this time in history).

Young Isa Lassone leaves the comforts of her rich family to go back to a war torn Belgium (of which her family fled when rumors of war were happening) to save the family that was more closer a family to her than her own parents and brother. During this time she learns that Edward (the man she has loved for a long time) has helped publish this paper and refuses to return with her. Isa decides that she will than stay with Edward and his loving mother and young brother. Throughout her time there she learns of Edwards involvement in the this underground paper she offers to help. Edward at first tells her not to get involved but later he takes her offer of help. But than the Germans close in on the paper and Edward learns that he has put more than just his own life in danger.

I also enjoy the fact that shares the insightful thoughts of all the characters about God and the people involved in the war. One such quote, "Yet wasn't God still in the individual? Not in the army as a while, but in each and every man who welcomed Him? Belgian, English, French, and German, too?" (p. 113) I suppose one does ponder these things when they are in country torn by war. I also enjoyed that in the end during her time in prison Isa still continued to praise the Lord for where He had put her, much like Paul when he was in prison.

This is the first book I've read by Maureen Lang. She is a great writer and it shows through this book. did a wonderful job with this book. I love some of the history that she shares in it. Although not all of the information is true in the book (which she states at the end of her book) it is still nice to read and think of what it must of been like to live in Belgium during World War I. Two of the main characters are introduced at the beginning of the book and capture your interest right away and continue to engage you throughout the rest of the book. As you continue to read you meet other characters like Genny and Max (also great characters that help the story). I had a hard time putting this book down, I think I read it in just 2 days!

I would definetly recommend this book to others!

I got this book courtesy of the Tyndale Publishing Company for the purpose of reviewing it. So make sure you watch come September for Whispers on the Wind, by Maureen Lang!

One for the Girl

2010-08-02T00:50:00.000-07:00

I finished A's Urban Unisex Hoodie! I LOVE this pattern and know that it will be one of my most "go to" patterns! It's a bit big (I made the 5T) but she'll grow into it right?!?! I'm happy with the way it turned out. I plan on making more! I have one in in the works for Van. I also have one other idea of what to do with this cute apple fabric....you'll just have to stay tuned!

Beautiful Bonnet and Matching Skirt

2010-07-30T00:01:00.000-07:00

Between VBS, 2 kiddos on my own, a sinus infection, laundry, general house cleanliness, and company I haven't had much time to sew. I had a few minutes to myself the other day to sew. I put Van down for a nap and Miss A was outside to play, a great time to sew! Well it was short lived as Van woke up and Miss A was ready to come in. So yesterday evening P.D. came home from a very busy day (I'll share more about that another time), and told me he was going to send Miss. A out to play with some friends outside and he would watch Van so I could do some sewing (one of the biggest breaks I've gotten in the last couple of weeks), I was VERY excited!! I had just purchased the Beautiful Bonnet pattern last week (I know the lady from a forum I go on). I was a bit skeptical about what it would look like on my 3 year old. But I have to say when it was all said and done I LOVE.LOVE.LOVE. it!!!! I think it's adorable and I like the more "modern" look to it.

so now I have this great looking bonnet but what would she wear with it?!?! I whipped up this sassy skirt to go with it! Rather easy to make (just a basic skirt with an elastic waist band).

And I have to say I also LOVE Miss A in the color red!

I even used my "new" serger to sew up the skirt! Best $25 I have ever invested in! It made the skirt come together quickly and made it look finished!

The close up (to see the fabric)

Twirling!

You can see the inside fabric

Note: this is a reversible bonnet, but mine won't be reversible this first time *insert wink here*

And because she's cute and enjoys riding her scooter (which by the way matches)!

Crafting of a different sort!

2010-07-27T12:21:00.000-07:00

Last week we had our Vacation Bible School Week. It's one of the busy times for P.D. and myself. Although it's a lot of work it is also a blessing!

Usually P.D. is around to help me coordinate stuff for the decorations. Well this year he took the a couple of teens to Northland International University for teen camp, so he was gone the week before VBS. This meant that I was in charge of doing working all the decorations, and taking care of the kiddos for a week on my own, and I ended up getting the worse sinus infection I have had in a long time (about 2 years).

I was able to get A LOT of help from some wonderful ladies in my church and also was able to recruit the help of some VERY hard working teen girls!!

The Theme was "Egypt Files: Decoding the Mystery of the Gospel" From Answers in Genesis.

Here's what we ended up with! Crafting of a different kind which included more paper and LOTS of paint!!

Book Review- Sarah's Garden

2010-07-16T13:16:00.000-07:00

Sarah's Garden by Kelly Long

"Quite by accident, Sarah King has fallen in love. But this love is forbidden, and could cost her everything she holds dear."

Growing up I never tired of seeing the Amish Community near my little town in Wisconsin. They have also seemed like hard working individuals. That is the reason why I chose this book from Booksneeze to review. This book was about a young Amish girl who falls in love with her neighbor who is a young veterinarian. But this love is forbidden because the young veterinarian is not Amish (he is English). Through the book you can see their young love. However, by Sarah loving Grant and marrying him she could loose everything, her family, her community, and her home.

Long's book was very well written. The characters are well developed the plot is understand and real (you can imagine it happening the events did not seem made up. However, this story similar to other books written about young Amish people falling in love with those outside the Amish community. It is kind of predictable before you even get to the end of the book.

I did enjoy the book and even though the ending was a bit predictable I would recommend this book to others.

I received a copy of this book as a complimentary copy to review. The above review is my honest opinion of the book.

One Year Bible for Woman (NLT)

2010-06-10T17:42:00.000-07:00

I obviously didn't get through this whole Bible in my short time of reading it. I did however enjoy the layout of this Bible. At the beginning of the Bible it gives the date and a Scripture reading for that date. But the other thing I enjoyed about this Bible is that it also gave some other ways to read the Bible (examples: Revised One-Year Plan, Two-Year Plan, Three-Year Plan, and Words of Praise and Wisdom in One Year). I thought it would be fun to alternate between the reading of the Bible in one year and Words of Praise and Wisdom in One Year. There are also quote (in pink) in the Bible which pertain to everyday life which are fun to read and give great insight. There is also a section called Reflection throughout the Bible which is very insightful and useful.

I received a free copy of this book compliments of Tyndale Publishing Company for the purpose of reviewing.

New Shirt from Old Shirt: A Tutorial

2010-06-04T10:45:00.000-07:00

What you need:

~Knit Fabric

~Knit trim (I used some from an old tshirt, but again, I ended up taking it off)

~Sewing Machine or Serger (I didn't have my serger at this point)

~Pins

~Scissors

Note: The nice thing about sewing with knit is that it doesn't fray! Also I use a quarter inch seam allowance (unless otherwise stated)

Disclaimer: Somehow I'm missing some pictures....not sure how, but I tried to explain it the best I can!

Now onto the tutorial!

I started off by taking a shirt apart that I no longer wore (and that I like the fit of).

I got out my fabric and cut out two sides (front and back body peice)

Pin and cut out around your “pattern”

SLEEVES: I did not get a picture of this. but trace and cut out the the sleeves as you did with the body of the shirt (cut two).

I started to do a trim on the sleeves (which didn’t work out so I ended up taking it off), but if you want to add trim take the trim and sew it to the end of the sleeve. I folded mine similar to bias tape so that the inside peice was longer than the outside peice to make sure that you got the inside with the outside when you sewed it together.

The trim on the sleeve is done!

If you don’t add the trim....just fold under and sew along the edge (I sewed 1/4 of an inch away from the edge).

Now onto the sewing the sleeve in. I found the center of the sleeve (by folding it in half and maked the place with a needle.

The body peice (not pictured) I sewed the two body pieces together at the shoulder.

Than I set the sleeve in (with lots of pins) and sewed the sleeve in. This was a lot easier than I thought it would be!

Finish sewing the sleeve in.

Remember: you don't have to zigzag stitch the seams closed because knit fabric doesn't unravel!

Than sew down the side seams and you’re finished (except the neckline)

For the neckline I made ruffles and sewed them unto the front of the shirt (here's a good tutorial on how to do ruffles). I found out it's even easier with my machine, I just turn my tension up to 9 (as tight as it can go) and it ruffles right up for me.

Close up of the neckline!

Another Tutorial Coming Soon...

2010-05-22T05:28:00.000-07:00

We are headed out for vacation tomorrow evening after the Sunday evening service. We'll be gone until June 2nd. Unfortunately I didn't get my shirt tutorial finished up, so you'll have to wait until I come home. Sorry. Today will be a full day of laundry (lots), and packing the car up (yes we are driving). :) We're going to drive about 4.5 miles on Sunday evening and the rest of the way (which I'm told is about 10 hours) on Monday. I'm trying to pack enough things to make the car ride enjoyable for the kids.

Okay I'll leave you with a few pictures of a skirt I made for Miss Annika a year ago, I saw a picture of this and fell in love with it, however at this time I was kind of afraid to try something new (especially without a pattern). I got the fabric from Walmart for a $1. I figured if it didn't turn out I'm only out a little bit. Well it turned out and I absolutely love it. But remember I said that I didn't know exactly what I was doing (as I had no pattern), well it ended up being too big. It's sitting in her closet just waiting to be worn, it is one of my all time favorite things I have ever sewn! I'm going to try and make a new one when I get back and maybe I'll even get a tutorial thrown up!

Hope you all have a great week! I know I will as I'm visiting family in Colorado and enjoying the mountains!

It's kind of hard to see but it has pleats in the front.

Coming Soon!!!

2010-05-20T06:38:00.000-07:00

A shirt Tutorial...I'm hoping to get this done before I go on vacation (we leave after the Sunday Evening Service) to Colorado for a week. If not I might share something different and work on the tutorial while I'm gone (I just need to put the pictures in order and write it up)!

Finished McCall M6062

2010-05-14T13:37:00.000-07:00

Remember this post?!? Well I finally finished the outfit!!

I started this outfit and finished the shirt (which I LOVE), I was procrastinating on the pants. I finally sat down and finished them up today. My sewing machine doesn't gather stitch without a lot of fuss (so I just decided on doing a single ruffle on the bottom of the pants). Even with the single ruffle I still like it. I ended up making a 2T which fit her well (except the elastic at the waist next time I will add a bit more). She usually wears a 3T. She loves the outfit!

Action Shot: Watching the Birds. :)

Review for this pattern can be seen here.

Love

2010-05-12T00:00:00.000-07:00

Sew Blessed Giveaway!

2010-05-11T20:24:00.000-07:00

Cindy from over at Sew Blessed is having a Giveaway (and what a generous giveaway it is! Look what awesome prize you could win.

Cindy is a wonderful seamstress and even has some of her pattern for sale! Go check out some of the stuff she has created. I also love looking at the pictures of her kids in the outfits that she has made. The giveaway is open until Thursday Evening so you better head over soon and sign up!

Upcycled skirt to little girl dress

2010-05-10T19:18:00.000-07:00

I actually made this last fall but haven't shared it until now. I found the tutorial for this skirt here. I purchased the skirt from the thrift store for $2-3 (I can't remember). I had plans of resizing it for me (it was a bit large), but I couldn't find a shirt that would look nice with it.

Here is the skirt before, I didn't feel like ironing it...sorry.

The After:

Back:

Front:

Happy Mother's Day!!

2010-05-09T07:11:00.000-07:00

Patch Work Twirly Skirt

2010-05-06T06:52:00.000-07:00

Since I haven't had the time to finish the outfit in the below post. I've decided to share one I did a bit ago. I'm not sure how I came across this blog but her tutorials are awesome! I used this tutorial to make Miss Annika a skirt! I love the way that it turned out.

I've had this fabric sitting in my stash for awhile now

...so combine this fabric with that tutorial...

...and this little girl!

And you got yourself a skirt good enough for enjoying the sun...

running around...

picking dandelions...

or just chillin'!

Then Life Happened...

2010-05-05T07:28:00.000-07:00

Life....that's the reason I haven't posted lately. I have a few minutes now as Van is down for a nap (kind of unusual) and Miss A is sleeping (it was a late night I think she got in bed at 11 pm). I have TONS to share, from skirts I made for myself (although I think I want to remake a few of them as soon as I can find zippers), skirts for Annika, and I'm almost done with this outfit...I have yet to do the ruffles on the capris.

However yesterday I was going to try and sit for a bit and do some sewing, I even got up early to do some laundry (Tuesdays are my laundry days). I put my first load in at 7 am than the kiddos got up and we did our usual morning routine and I finally got down at 8:46 am to change it over and found that my laundry/bathroom down stairs had an inch of water all over the floor (that's not suppose to be there)! I than went into my bedroom and noticed that yep...the water had leaked into my closet and almost all the way over to my bed (luckily the laundry room is tile, however my bedroom is carpeted). So off to find a dry/wet vac and vacuum out my room and the inch of water in the laundry. The day ended with the Sewer guys coming and emptying our tank (now mind you we have lived in the parsonage for 5 years, I don't know anything about sewers but we hadn't had it cleaned since we lived there and I don't know if it has ever been cleaned)! YUCK....it stunk (literally)! :)
Oh and I forgot to add it took almost a good 1.5-2 hours to find the man whole to the septic system...needless to say we couldn't see the cap and no one could remember where it was (parsonage was built in the 80's).

Enough about that, than after we got all that figured out we had to head out to a softball game (I play catcher for our church softball team)...that ended well as we won 11 - 7 (something like that).

I did however get a new "toy"!!!! Check this out!! I'm soo excited!!

I got it from a lady whose father got it from an auction, she purchased a pedal for it for $25 and she sold it to me for $25!! I've been looking for one and planned on spending about $200 (that I had saved up) for it. Now I have one for an 8th of the price and have money left over for fabric?!?!? It's a BabyLock BL400. It however didn't come with a manual, but alas I found one the same day and ordered it so I'm waiting for it to come in the mail!

Well I'm off...today is story time at the library and that's our one venture out of the house during the week since we live 15 minutes from town. :) Hope you enjoy your day!

Looking for a New Car?!?!

2010-04-23T13:31:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to share this group of pictures I took of my son and put into a story after I looked at all the pictures. I was actually just trying to get a cute picture of him in his shirt and tie for church, but I got a lot more than just one! :) Van at 9.5 months old! :)

So...Are ya lookin' for a new car?!?

You are?!?!? I got just the beauty for you!

Look right over here.

She shines like a sparkling diamond...

What do you mean that's not what you want?!?

It's got newer tires, new battery...

It's got EVERYTHING you could possibly want!

What can I do for YOU...to get you to buy this car?!?

Price....price you say?!?!

For you, I'll knock $500 off!

How can you refuse a deal like that?!?!

Boy...oh boy...you're a tough sell!

This is my last offer...take it or leave it....$700 off!

You'll take it?!?!? Now we're talking!

Baby, let me walk you to your new car!!!

Sweetness

2010-04-21T05:57:00.000-07:00

Book Reiveiw: I Love God's Green Earth - Michael & Caroline Carroll

2010-04-19T01:00:00.000-07:00

Michael & Caroline do a great job of making this book interesting for children. The book teaches kids how to take care of the Earth that God had created. The fun facts are interesting along with some of the cool websites and other activities that kids can do. The book is very kid oriented (the pictures, page layouts) and the length of each devotion is the perfect length for kids. However I felt the book was more of of something you would use as a training tool than something as a devotional.

Each page has a new devotional for the day. While I like the layouts of the page, I didn’t care to much for the content in the devotions. Don’t get me wrong some were good, but some were really stretching what the verses were saying. Some I feel didn’t even go a long with the verses at all. The end of the book had some useful resource.

On a whole I would not recommend this book to others as a devotional for children, but as a training tool if this is something you are interested in teaching your children.

Action Steps that we take in our home:
~We use cloth diapers
~We are careful about turning off lights whenever we are finished in a room
~We also have a compost pile which we started last year.

I received a free copy of this book from Tyndale Publishing for the purpose of reviewing.

Next on my Sewing List...

2010-04-16T07:45:00.000-07:00

A little life, a little shoes, and a little fabric

2010-04-12T17:10:00.000-07:00

My poor Van has been having trouble gaining weight. Since he was 4 months old he has only grown a little over 2.5 lbs and only about 1/2 an inch, at his 9 months appointment (yes I said since 4 months).

Needless to say he's just a little guy. He is still in 3 month clothes (some 3-6 months). We went for his well baby checkup 2 weeks ago and they wanted to see us again today. To help him gain weight we have decided to start supplementing w/ formula, which must be working some because he gained .6 lbs since than (but still not good enough for the doctor, we go back in a month).

And because he's soo stinking cute!

But today on our way back from the hospital we stopped at the thrift store...did I mention I LOVE thrift stores?!?!? But we live in the middle of nowhere (really we do)! So at the thrift store I found these REALLY cute shoes! I couldn't pass them up they were brand new for only $2!! I have NEVER owned a red pair of shoes (you see I'm a tennis shoe kind of girl) so I shopped out of my comfort zone.

Oh and I found this super cute skirt (a bit big for me and not the most flattering style, but you can bet that I will be fixing it up)!!!

Of course I don't have anything that really matches the shoes (well I do have red shirts, but most are BRIGHT red). PD had the day off work (he usually takes Monday's off since he "works" all weekend, so we headed down to the cities (which is about an hour away). I got to go to JoAnn fabrics (yay!). So I picked up some fabric to match my new red shoes to make myself a skirt (and a few other fabrics). They also had patterns for 99 cents so I picked up a few of those also!

Family

2010-04-07T03:00:00.000-07:00

More New Pants & A Sweater Vest

2010-04-05T06:27:00.000-07:00

Remember these front pocket pants I made for Van a few weeks ago?!? I used the tutorial from here. I LOVE these pants. So I had some really cute little dinosaur print material that I had gotten a couple years ago at a garage sale and decided to turn them into another pair of pants. But this time I wanted to try something new so I went to Dana's tutorial here (on how to make a sweater vest from an old sweater).

The sweater vest was sooo easy to make! I will definetly be whipping up more of these in the future! I used an old sweater that I have had since high school (in fact I think it was a hand-me down from one of my sisters), I know...I know...why do I have something that old....well because I use to wear it ALL.THE.TIME! It was such a comfortable sweater and it didn't look too bad (except faded a bit), but it does look adorable on my little guy! For the arm wholes and neck line I cut up an old polo shirt in kind of a mustard yellow color. I really like the colors and I really like the look of the sweater!

Here's a close up of the pants:

Here's an action shot of Van in his new sweater and pants!

Book Review - Not a Sparrow Falls - Linda Nichols

2010-04-01T05:00:00.000-07:00

“Two Desperate People- One With All the Answers...One With None”
I put this book at the bottom of the stack of books I had to review, I looked at it and read the back cover and decided this was the one I was the least interested in. When I finally got to this book it took me a few days to actually grab it and start reading. I also got through the prologue and wasn’t to sure how much I would like the book.

After I started reading the book, I had a hard time putting it down. I thought Linda did a wonderful job writing the book. Her characters were well thought out she was clear on many aspects of the happenings in the book. I thought her use of doctrine was pretty good also. I would definitely recommend this book to others!

I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House Publishing for the purpose of reviewing.

Blah Sweater to Fab Sweater!! My FIRST sewing tutorial!!

2010-03-26T06:46:00.000-07:00

I found this brown (dark chocolate brown) sweater in a bag of clothes that someone left at our church (free for the taking). It’s SOOOO very soft (has cashmere and angora in it). However it was a bit big and a bit boring (I apologize to anyone who owned this at one point as I don’t know who you are)! ;)

So here is the sweater before hand:

Materials needed:
Old Sweater (any kind will do, I liked this one b/c the edges didn’t fray which means I didn’t have to fix them)!
Thread (I used white b/c that’s all I had)
Scissors
Button
Elastic Hair Tie
Sewing Machine

Step 1:
Try the sweater on and decide on the length you would like the sleeves. I like longer sleeves and since it’s a warmer sweater decided it would be great for fall and spring (and cooler weather). So I went with a longer sleeve.

Step 2:
Cut off the cuffs (but save them you will use them later)!

Step 3:
Do the same to the other sleeve (no picture sorry).

Step 4:
Because mine had a collar I cut that off also.

Step 5:
Next you need to cut a line down the center of your sweater (from collar to waist seam). I don’t have a picture of this but think you could manage it! ;)

Now it’s time to get out the sewing machine!

Step 6:
Take the sweater and make sure you have it right side out. Take the cuff (you know the one you cut off early and put aside). Make sure you have that right side out also. Pin the cuff to the sleeve of the shirt making sure that when you fold it over (how you want it to look on your arm once finished) that the seams are in the inside. Do the same to the other side.

Step 7:
Next figure out where you would like to put the button at. I put mine down a little lower than the collar. Sew your elastic hair tie onto your sweater.

Step 8: Sewing on the button (pretty self-explanatory)

That’s it...you’re finished!!!

The nice thing about this sweater was that the edges didn't fray so I have all raw edges. If you have a sweater that will fray make sure you either serge it (I don't own a serger...yet), if you don't own a serger you can use a zig zag stitch.

Have fun!!

Did you try this tutorial?? Feel free to email me your pictures at Kcsramblings@hotmail.com!

New Tutorial (sewing)

2010-03-25T19:05:00.001-07:00

I just finished up a new tutorial today! I am soo excited about it! I love sewing and to finally be able to make my own tutorial is exciting (especially when it comes to sewing). I'm hoping to get it together and post it tomorrow!!

Pink

2010-03-24T06:19:00.000-07:00

Another Hat Post & My First Tutorial (kind of)

2010-03-23T08:17:00.001-07:00

I realized after I posted my last post about hats that I wanted to share more about a hat that I made for Annika. It's the hat in the first picture.

A few years ago my grandma got my niece and young cousin a Knifty Knitter set for Christmas.
She let me mess with them before she wrapped them as Christmas gifts (she wanted us both to know how to use them in case the little girls needed help). I LOVED it!!! I love to craft but one thing I never was real big into was knitting or crocheting. I just couldn't get it and it never interested me (still doesn't all that much). :) But I LOVED this thing (probably because I love hats)!

I started this hat last fall. I had the yarn sitting in my craft room downstairs (it was suppose to be made into a shawl for Annika...but I had one minor problem I never learned how to make them). :) I than decided to use it for a hat. Well the cold came (and almost went) and I never finished the hat, I thought it was U.G.L.Y!

Until one day I decided to finish it so that I could use the loom for another project I had in mind (I'll share more about that project when I finish it). Back to the hat. I had Miss Annika try it on and I instantly fell in L.O.V.E! I can't get over how cute it is!!

To Make this I used: (Is this considered as a tutorial...if so it's my first)!!
The KK (Knifty Knitter) Red loom
KK Hook Tool
KK plastic needle
E-wrap with the chunky braid stitch ** (directions listed below)
I used one skein of yarn (Red Heart) from Walmart (and because I got it a couple of years ago, I have NO idea what the name of it is, but it has brown, green, pink and white in it).

I did not add a brim (so it just rolls up).

**Chunky Braid Stitch
Wrap pegs four times around then knit three wrapped sts over one. (Leaves one st on the peg each time.) Next round, wrap with 3 wraps again so you have 4 sts on the pegs. Knit 3 wraps over the one again.

I guess I did mine a bit different (I left 2 on the pegs each time)

Hats...Hats...and More Hats!!

2010-03-21T14:14:00.000-07:00

I LOVE hats!!! Both of my kids wear hats on an almost regular basis. Annika loves to wear any hat around the house (whether it be a spider man baseball cap or stocking cap). Van is learning to like hats (we're working on him keeping them on). :) But I have always liked hats. I started collecting them when I was little (and have had around 40+ baseball caps at one point).

While I love hats my kids don't have a choice they have had hats from a young age. Annika who is 3 has had probably over 60+ hats in her young life and Van is on his way. The sad thing about hats is that kids out grow them. I love the hats that Annika and Van have had as babies.

Here's a few of them...

I got to thinking one day what can I do with the hats I really like? You know the ones that are just too cute to shove into boxes....well here's what I (and a friend) came up with!

I got the shelf for $0.25 at a garage sale and the whine glasses were left over from our wedding (free from a friend). The "A" hanging down was on a diaper cake from when she was born.

One Word Wednesday (kind of)

2010-03-17T06:27:00.001-07:00

I'm just starting my new One Word Wednesday posts so each Wednesday I will post a picture that I have taken myself (and one word...which will be in the title). Some turn out great some need work! But I'm hoping this will help me learn to use my new camera (Nikon D5000) better! So for today!

Van:

Book Review- Never Say Never by Lisa Wingate

2010-03-16T07:43:00.000-07:00

Never Say Never
Lisa Wingate

“Sometime Life’s Storms Blow in Unexpected Possibilities”

Kai Miller found herself in Daily, Texas after a hurricane evacuation forced her out of the place where she had formerly lived. Kai was a person who didn’t lay down roots and call any place “home” that was until she met the hometown hero Kemp Eldrige. She can imagine herself laying roots down, but not knowing where Kemp’s heart lays leaves her little choice but to leave Daily, Texas back to her job. But Kemp’s aunt Donette has other plans for the young couple.
 Lisa did a good job developing the story. I feel like I know her characters well. I do like how she captured what is happening in the life of both Kai Miller and Donetta Bradford (the aunt). However, the story is somewhat predictable.

I do however wish she would of had a more clear presentation of the gospel in the book. Over all I thought the book okay, but it was not something I would pick up and read again. I would not mind try reading other books from this author.

I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers for the purpose of reviewing.

Pant's for Van!

2010-03-09T06:44:00.000-08:00

Van got new pants. I bought myself a pair of pants from the thrift store for $3. I LOVED the pattern and was going to make them smaller in the legs (they were VERY wide legged pants), but that didn't work out. So I decided to try and turn them into a skirt for myself. Well that didn't work either (that and the fact that I had lost weight and they wouldn't of fit anyways). So they got put aside until I could find something to do with them.

Than as I was reading through my daily blog roll, I found out that two of my favorite blogs were hosting a boys month!! What fun! I haven't sewed anything for Van since he was a baby (and all he got was a pair of shorts). Well Dana over at Made came up with these really cute pants with flat front pockets and I KNEW exactly what fabric I wanted to use to make Van some of these pants!!

So without further ado...Van in his new pants!

Oh and just because he's cute!!

And here he is Sunday Morning ready for church! We got TONS of compliments on these pants! He's sitting so big!

By the way do you know how hard it is to take pictures of pants on a little boy who can't stand yet! :)

The reason I don't sew as much...

2010-02-27T08:08:00.001-08:00

This picture was taken w/ my new digital camera (I'll share some about it later)!

More Cloth Diapers

2010-02-19T05:46:00.001-08:00

You can never have enough! We are way behind on needing these! Poor Van is starting to finally out grow the nb/small (not sure of the size). I do really like this pattern (it's the same one I posted about here).
Annika was eating a cookie the other day (we don't often do cookies at 9a.m. but mommy really wanted one so Annika had to have one also)! While taking pictures I hear Annika say, "Mommy look I made a diaper also." I look over and this is what I find! ;)

Simplicty 3511

2010-02-09T07:15:00.000-08:00

My neighbor lady got me a new pattern from the thrift store yesterday and I was soo excited to give it a try! This is the first pattern I've ever done that had buttonholes and also sleeves. Both of which weren't as hard as I thought they would be. You can see my full review here.

Front

Back
Whole Dress

Action Shotnote: She wanted me to take a pictures of "Freezer Bear" and this was actually the best picture I got of her in the dress...go figure she's not even the main focus in this shot!

New PJ's

2010-02-08T10:25:00.000-08:00

Annika LOVES wearing PJ pants all day long (shhh....so does her mom)! :) I think she likes that they are easy to put on herself and easy enough so she can use the potty on her own.

So I made her and Van some matching pj pants. They were really simple to put together, I just traced a copy of some pants I had for them already and sewed them together. Some of the easiest things to make and she loves them!

Van looks a little nervous sitting next to her....not that I can blame him, you never know what she will do next!

New diaper...new pattern

2010-02-04T05:06:00.000-08:00

Van is in serious need of some new diapers! So yesterday I had a bit of time while the kiddos were napping. I finished it last night when they both went to bed and after playing a mean game of Skippo with PD (in which I won!!) ;)

I started cloth diapering Annika when she was about 7 months old and it was my intention to cloth diaper Van from birth (well I did off and on). My main problem with him is that I don't have a lot of diapers that fit all that well (he's a pretty skinny little guy), which means I need to make some (and sewing time is hard to come by with 2 kiddos).

But I was able to find a new pattern (free) at Making it Little by Little I have to say this was my first time making this pattern and I LOVE it!!! I really like how it's narrower between the legs so he doesn't look so bow-legged. I will definitely be making more. Although I have to make them in a smaller size since the mediums are a bit big on my little skinny man.

I made this with flannel outer and flannel inner with a hidden layer of fleece, not real thick but I'm able to add an insert and hopefully it will dry quicker.

Action shots....you want action shots! Sure!!

Book Review

2010-02-02T12:13:00.000-08:00

The Silent Governess
Julie Klassen

Forced to leave her home with a secret, Olivia Keene eventually finds herself at the charge of Lord Bradley, who employs her as an under-nurse for his dear niece and nephew.

Lord Bradley has a few secrets of his own and not wanting Olivia to share those secrets he gives her little choice than to become an under-nurse. Lord Bradley believes he is safe for now since Olivia has injured her throat and cannot speak. Will either of their secrets get out? Will they come to an understanding?

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. When I picked it up to read it I had a hard time putting it down. Klassen did a wonderful job developing the characters as well as the plot. She took me back into the 19th century and to the happenings at Brightwell Court.

I would recommend this book to anyone. It was a great read and a fun read! I look forward to reading more books from Julie Klassen.

I received a free copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers for the purpose of reviewing.

2010-02-01T18:43:00.000-08:00

Yes, FINALLY.....

It's ALL about sewing for the boys! Rae and Dana are sewing for boys for the month of February! I'm very excited about this since I can find tons and tons of pattern for Miss A. But have only made Van pants so far. So head on over and see what they're sewing up for the boys in our life!!!

Giveaways All Over the Place!!!

2010-01-24T13:05:00.000-08:00

Talk about giveaway central here huh?!?!? :) I have another one to list for you!

Aren't these the cutest things every?!?!

If you're like me, you're feet are ALWAYS cold. In lieu of her first sewing tutorial, Steph is hosting a giveaway at her blog Snickerdoodles. For a chance to win all you have to do is go to her blog or click here and it will take you right to her giveaway!!

If you don't win the giveaway....don't worry she has posted the tutorial to her site!! You can bet that I will be making myself a pair (if I ever get back into sewing)!! ;)

Another Giveaway!!

2010-01-22T16:34:00.000-08:00

We are looking into purchasing a new camera, I love my old one (a simple Kodak Easyshare), but it's not charging anymore. We are looking into purchasing a Nikon D5000. What does this have to do w/ a giveaway you may ask your self?!?! Well every camera needs a cool looking camera strap right?!?!?

Check this out!

This is one of my favorite prints!

Don't own a SRL camera?!? Doesn't matter she also makes them for quick snap cameras also!!

How do you enter?!? Head on over to Make It and Love It to see all of the details! You can click on the link above or click on her button on my sidebar!

FREE Cloth Diapers!!!

2010-01-18T05:41:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't like "FREE"!! Well head on over to www.SewCraftyBaby.com they are giving away some great prizes including FREE cloth diapers! Or you can head on over and see more details about the drawing HERE on facebook!

Make sure you go and take a look and sign-up while there's time!!!

Book Review

2010-01-12T14:24:00.000-08:00

The Busy Couples's Guide to Sharing the Work & the Joy

"Smart solutions to dozens of household dilemmas couples face every day."

Kathy Peel in her book seeks to help a person manage the life of their family and to share the responsibilities of the family among all the members. The book covers many aspects of life from managing finances, household chores, meal planning, and even how to manage special events such as birthday parties, holiday celebrations, ect. . .

Kathy shares some great tips on how to manage almost every aspect of your life like activities to do with your children that don’t cost a lot and how to save money at the supermarket. One chapter I thought helpful in these challenging economic times was her chapter on managing finances in general. She has worksheets to complete which helps a person put into practice her ideas. She also shares stories of people that have struggled with some of these areas and how she has or would help them. There are many helpful things in this book: from the real life accounts of people (it is nice to know that you are not the only one struggling), to the many different worksheets to help you complete as a family.

While the book brought out many helpful tips and practical ideas, I wouldn’t recommend sitting down and reading the book all in one sitting. I think it would be better to read a chapter a week so you have more time to focus on certain areas. While the book also shares some good Bible principles it is not a book meant to change your heart. In other words, there are great ideas here from a Christian perspective but the book is not a Bible teaching manuel.

I would recommend this book to others if you are looking for great practical advice and tips on managing your life with less stress.

I received a free copy of “The Busy Couples Guide to Sharing the Work and the Joy” from Tyndale Publishing for the purpose of reviewing.

CHECK OUT THIS AWESOME GIVEAWAY!!!!

2009-12-02T19:50:00.000-08:00

I came across Bonnie's blog about 3 months ago and love reading her posts and seeing the things she has made for her children.
She's hosting a giveaway!!

Head on over to Fishsticks and Fries to learn more about her giveaway in honor of her 100th post.

This is just a fraction of what she is giving away....What a sweet lady!! Go check it out!!

It's been awhile!

2009-10-22T06:08:00.000-07:00

It's been a long time since I posted on here....I'm not doing to good am I?? Life just seems to get more busy with the more kids you have and the more your husband works...kind of stinks sometimes! :) Here's a pair of longies I just finished for Van-man w/ a matching hat! I used the tutorial and pattern from Katrina's site:

By the way Van-man is going to be 4 months old next Monday...how time flies!

I believe I have done more stuff and I'll post when I have time. Today (and tomorrow) I'm off to help at an in-home daycare. I've been helping this lady for a couple of years and she's going out of state for a funeral for the weekend.

Back to the sewing machine (Lots of pictures & tutorials)

2009-09-16T04:59:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to share some thing that I have worked on since baby and one that was a pre-baby outfit (I just didn't get a chance to blog about it).

So first off: Pre-baby Outfit for Miss A!
Lazy Day Skirt made with from the Oliver + S tutorial:

The flower was made from a tutorial found here:

Cute huh?!?!

Next up a Buttercup bag from Made by Rae:

And last but not least this great reusable sandwich bag from here:

ADORABLE!!!

2009-09-15T05:09:00.001-07:00

Isn't this top and skirt adorable?!?!?It's a Giveaway!!

You could have a chance to win this adorable outfit all you have do is click on one of the pictures below and head over to Grosgrains blog and read the information she has...it's SUPER easy! :) I personally think I have just the right model to fit this dress (although her model is very cute also). ;)
I hope she will eventually make one in my size...I absolutely LOVE it!

New Pj's

2009-09-09T06:50:00.000-07:00

New PJ's...both kids could use some warmer pj's for this fall so I've decided to join with the Sew, Mama, Sew Blog for their Pajama Party-Sew Along! Click on the picture below to join in on the sewing fun!! (By the way this is my first time and I'm not a real advanced seamstress so my pj's ended up being pretty simple.

This is my first sew-a-long! And I thought it would be LOTS of fun.

I got some knit from a garage sale for pretty cheap and decided to make Van-man some new Pj's well when I finished them up Miss A decided she wanted a pair also...not as cute on her but she's happy! :)

My pistol packing little girl:

Van-man:

Peace Out, Man (love this photo):

And one more close up of Van-man!! B/c it's adorable!!!

Back Pack Giveaway!!!

2009-09-08T12:59:00.001-07:00

Check out this adorable Back Pack....cute isn't it?!?!

Did you know you could win this??? YEP!! All you have to do is head on over to Grosgrain and read the details about how to enter...

Oh and if you love to sew she is giving away a PDF of this pattern Made by Rae!!

So head on over and check it out!!!!

No Sewing...But Pictures!

2009-08-01T20:49:00.000-07:00

I have been toying around lately with taking pictures. I really enjoy it!! So with some of my spare time yesterday I took the two kiddos out to take a few pictures. Here's just a few of them! Not bad for having a 2 year old who didn't want to cooperate! She's really into picking flowers these days, so it's amazing what a little bribing can do. ;)

Miss A and Little Van-Man

Don't forget to stop and smell the....flowers!

Gotta {love} feet!!

How sweet is my Little Van-man?!?

The best of the both of them!

Lil Blue Boo Giveaway

2009-07-25T11:08:00.000-07:00

I know I haven't posted much (makes it kind of hard w/ a new little one in the house). But I do want to share a giveaway I came across with you!!

So for my lack of blogging lately, I'll share a giveaway with you!!

Isn't this outfit A-D-O-R-A-B-L-E to say the least!!!

Head on over to Lil Blue Boo just click on the button in the upper right hand side of my blog or to take you right to the post click here and you could have a chance to win this:Everything you need to make that adorable outfit in that picture!

Thanks Ashley for the great chance to win this giveaway!!

Blue Cricket Giveaway!!! Head on over and check it out!!

2009-07-18T19:23:00.000-07:00

A little low on crafting supplies?!?! I know I could always use some more!! Go to Blue Cricket Design and check out her giveaway!! You will be shocked at what this generous lady is giving away!! You can get to her page by clicking on the button at the top of my page (Blue Cricket Design) or by clicking on the hyper link in this blog!!

Here is just a small sample of what she is giving away!

Head on over and sign up it ends July 24th!!!

Our Little Guy is here!!!

2009-07-01T10:04:00.000-07:00

Introducing...

DONOVAN DAVID

He joined our family on June 26th at 12:35 am! Weighing in at 7 lbs 15 oz (same as his sister) and 20 inches long (one inch shorter than his sister)!

The first night at home was a bit rough, but we are finally getting into a "normal" routine. Although he's only 5 days old it's hard to imagine life without him. We are truly blessed for the two wonderful kids that God has placed into our care!!

Annika is doing great with him. She always has a smile every time she wakes up and notices that he's still here and not at the "hostible" (aka hospital). :)