Ribbons and Pigtails

2010-10-19T07:15:00.000-07:00

I have been keeping a little secret! MY sweet dear friend Charity and I have began a new blog collaboration. It is going to be full of tutorials, and other fun stuff! We just launched this week and here is today's post...

Ruffly Key Fob...oh yeah!

Come back on tomorrow for some fun She said She said and Thursday for another TUT ;)DON'T miss Friday...we have a special surprise!

Hugs and Blessings,

Ingrid

Come check us out HERE!

Scardy Cat

2010-10-11T06:13:00.000-07:00

I ran past some old Disney pictures last night and I thought they were pretty funny. We are avid lovers of Disney and whenever I can talk my husband into taking me, we load up and take off for the happiest place on earth......

or is it?

there is a quite terrified spectator that may disagree...

dad and brother notice nothing. by that matter the person taking the picture (me) doesn't seem too concerned either...

let's try eeyore, he's so sweet...right?

not happening!

I also remember when piglett goes to hug this sweet sweet girl and she punches him. He ran back and told his friends at the hundred acre wood, and I think they stayed away from our table the rest of the meal. :)

Now my kids both love to hug, kiss, high five and even dance with all the characters. It was funny to see either of them scared.

Slippers...

2010-10-08T11:16:00.000-07:00

Today is a ballerina slipper kind of day...

take a deep breath...take in your week.

smile.

tomorrow's a new saturday.

have fun. play with your kids. or your friends.

delight in the little things.

beautiful pics

Don't adjust your screen....

2010-10-08T10:36:00.000-07:00

I decided to change things up a little and take my music off of my home page.

If you want to hear my faves then you can click on the button on the top menu bar and it will take you to what I am listening to.

Grimace and the Hamburglar

2010-09-28T09:20:00.000-07:00

On Saturday mornings I would get up very early and watch cartoons with my brother. I have plenty of fond memories of 80's commercials. Like the old McDonalds ones with Grimace and the Hamburglar.

This was kind of like that...

Except when Hamburglar came out from the back he was a little sloppy and I believe he was stalling, since he kept bending over to tie his big shoes (which I don't even think had laces on them). Even through the costume he looked so uncomfortable.

Was he getting a massage?

Grimace on the other hand kept those childhood memories alive and danced with the kids.....

Wait! Is he trying to smother her?

Sizing your Images for Blogs :)

2010-09-27T11:32:00.000-07:00

Amanda from KevinandAmanda.com have so many great tutorials, recipes, and FONTS...oh the FONTS!! If you have never checked out their site...not only is visually striking, but there are so many goodies on there...well, just go and check it out!! ;)

**click on the pic to get over there!!**

THIS post shows you how to successfully adjust the sizing for your pictures. This is truly going to save me a huge headache. I was doing it by my tried and not so true method called "winging it", sometimes ending up with my pictures looking a bit wonky.

Charity of TheVinesBranches

2010-09-26T07:05:00.000-07:00

My dear friend, and sista from another motha, Charity of The Vines Branches has some super easy and very cute patterns over at Etsy. On her blog, she is giving tutorials for the patterns as well as ideas on how to use the patterns in a way you may not have thought ;)

If you've ever been scared of knit neckbands, Charity gives a great tut below that will have you saying "Oh, I can do that!" ;)

Drum roll please.........(imagine Doris Roberts in Christmas vacation)

So for those of you who have purchased the Seriously ? Easy tank top pattern.... is'nt it crazy how easy and quick it is to create?? I am going to give you an easy tutorial here to use with your pattern, and with just a couple simple changes you can make a ummmm... Normal? tank top instead! :-) Follow all pattern instructions except your raw strips! follow this in the place of that portion of the pattern...

Cut strips of stretchy knit fabric (like jersey or rib knit) 4" long. I usually cut the strips as wide as I can using the entire width of the fabric.

Fold your 4" strips in half, making them 2". Match the raw edges of the strips with the raw edge of one of the the arm openings in your tank top front piece. Pin down all the way accross the arm opening. Once all the way accross trim off what is left to use on the next arm opening!

Go to your machine and stitch in place. I then serge the raw edges, if you do not have access to a serger no problem... just either zigzag or overcast stitch the raw edges with your sewing machine. NOTE... knit fabrics normally do not fray... so if you choose you can leave your edges raw as well! :-)

Now off to the sewing machine again... now you will need to top stitch your seam down... this makes for a much neater and more professional finished look!

Follow these steps with all arm and both neck and bottom openings. Now you will follow all instructions that came in your pattern to construct your top. I have decided to show you another option also... I am going to simply hem the bottom of this tank top instead of using our red band of fabric on the bottom...

I serged the bottom first, all the way around. Next, I folded up 1/2" all the way around. Now Press, and go to the sewing machine! Sew with either a zigzag or a straight stitch (its all in what you like the look of better) And your finshed!

The flower on this tank top was a lot of fun too... I just used strips of a t-shirt that I was using when making a matching skirt! Runched the strips up and stitched on! If you have any quetions OR would like to see a flower tutorial just comment and let me know! :-)

FAIRYTALES...they'll make you want to soar!

2010-07-31T19:38:00.000-07:00

I just listed this enchanting little number on Ebay. It has a .99 start bid, and is truly magical! It has tons of hand applique, some hand embroidery, beads....and the best part.....

DETACHABLE FAIRY WINGS!!
((caution.....they'll make you want to soar with the butterflies!!))

Click here to see it!

My own day...

2010-05-20T06:40:00.000-07:00

If I had my very own day, I would do all things girly....

day dreaming of sweet little doe in the mist and fairies afar...

eating tiny desserts all day....dressed up in a beautiful gown and tiara

sipping tea from cute little cups adorned with roses

I would look up to see star filled skies....

....and dance underneath them

♡images

Happy Un-Mother's Day

2010-04-30T09:35:00.000-07:00

These are a few of my favorite pictures of my mom. She is visiting right now and I find myself reverting back to a high schooler. I seem to just let her cook and take care of the kids, as if they were her own. She is so good at it, and really enjoys the kids so much, that who am I to take that joy from her? ;)

We only have a little time left before she leaves again, so to her, I declare this her official Un-Mothers Day.

♡ All your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them. -Walt Disney

2010-04-20T19:42:00.000-07:00

I've been away..........

Planning

Preparing

Being excited

Daydreaming

Getting ready...........

for this:

We just got back from one of my favorite places in the world. Although I am not that well traveled, I have been to WDW more than a few times. More than a few hundred times, actually. I am not sure which attribute I LOVE the most......

Is it the pixie dust that resonates in the air?

The delectable concoctions that fill the air with sweet aromas of chocolate, cinnamon and vanilla?

Is it the whimsy of a world of fairies, heros and villans?

Magical waltzes with twirling, spinning with your true love?

Could it be the unimaginable Florida skies filled with glorious colors of oranges, pomegranates and peaches?

Is it the thought of a man had a vision that no one believed in, they thought he was crazy.....but he believed, he went for it, and accomplished the impossible?

I can't put my finger on just one thing, but rather millions of reasons that I love loading the car with my little ones (whining....are we there yet, and ALL) our ridiculous amounts of luggage and heading on the 9 hour drive to Orlando. Getting to the parks just in time to catch the last show of the night. Getting goosebumps seeing Fantasmic for the 100th time. (Man I heart that lil' mouse, white gloves and all) Waking up at 6 to get myself and the little ones ready to get to MK on time to see Mickey open the park. Going on Splash Mountain, and seeing my two monkeys with their hands high in the air, squealing shouts of pure glee. Exhausting ourselves from playing all day, to then finally crashing in our hotel room......

Then of course, starting all over again the next day.

Honey....when are we going back again? ;)

SOURCE for all the fantastic photos.

2010-03-29T05:39:00.000-07:00

I am not sure where I first saw this, but I love it. I carry it with me in my wallet:

11 things I learned from Noah's Ark

1. Don't miss the boat.

2. Remember that we are all in the same boat.

3. Plan ahead. It wasn’t raining when Noah built the Ark.

4. Stay fit. When you’re 600 years old, someone may ask you to do something really big.

5. Don’t listen to critics, just get on with the job that needs to be done.

6. Build your future on high ground.

7. For safety’s sake travel in pairs.

8. Speed isn’t always an advantage. The snails were on board with the cheetahs.

9. When you’re stressed, float awhile.

10. Remember the Ark was built by amateurs, the Titanic by professionals.

11. No matter the storm, when you are with God, there’s always a rainbow waiting.

I hope you see the rainbow today.

source

Chocoholics...BEWARE!! Delightful Gooeiness Ahead!

2010-03-25T05:33:00.000-07:00

THE CULPRITS:

1 cup butter, melted

3 cups white sugar

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

4 eggs

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

**optional…Pam to coat your baking dish**

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C)and lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish. I used Pam.

Combine the melted butter, sugar, and vanilla in a large bowl. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each, until thoroughly blended….

Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Instead of using a sifter, I use a colander. I mix all the ingredients with a spoon as they go thru the colander. Then you want to gradually stir the flour mixture into the chocolate mixture until blended.

****DISCLOSURE…this may cause a huge haze of flour in your kitchen, not allowing you to see a thing, sneeze, then having a truckload (not really) of flour to clean up.***

By hand, stir in the chocolate morsels, then spread the hole yummy thing it in your baking dish.

Bake for 35 to 40 minutes….I always start checking a couple minutes before with my handy dandy toothpick.

Now the instructions say to cool completely before cutting. I never listen to this step, but in this recipe it is IMPORTANT. The top of the brownies still need to harden J

It was either from the sweet fumes coming from these little pretties, or the cloud of flour that immersed me as I stirred them into existence, but unfortunately this is the end of my pictures. I was taking the brownies to a party and I simply forgot to take a picture of the finished ones. I can tell you they were a smashing hit and every morsel was devoured.

Hmmm…maybe I should make more today J

Take a bite...and bask in the glorious deliciousness of CHOCOLATE....like Mr. "M" here.

The original recipe was from
Allrecipes"

Braided Headband Tutorial

2010-03-18T06:46:00.000-07:00

When I was younger, I thought that the creative gene had completely missed me, although it ran deeply in my family. I NEVER thought I could draw, paint let alone SEW! I remember when I first decided to start sewing, I asked (let's call her Ms. X) if she could show me how to navigate my way through a pattern. Ms. X was very persistent that patterns had to be followed to a "T". Every notch had to line up, and if not....well HA! So in my ignorance to her, I asked, if the patters are so tedious to follow, could I make my own? I still remember her dauntingly laughing and telling me there was NO WAY!

I am not going to lie and say that this in no way slowed me down, that I victoriously showed her! In fact, it did discourage me. She knew how to sew, and I was just beginning. I did end up trying again and being able to conquer my fears. The best part is that I love to sew, and if I would have listened, I would have missed out on this great blessing.

I wanted to write this for all of you that think that you are not creative. You can't sew. That is way too hard! I am here to tell you...TRY. You may realize that you are creative, you CAN sew and even though some projects can be hard, the end result are worth it....and you may even fall in l♥ve!!

On to the tutorial:The Ribbons and
Pigtail's Braided Headband

With this tut, I wanted to use up my bag of scraps, so I did it with that in mind. All you will need is some scraps, thread, pins and your sewing machine. I am giving you the dimensions that I used for a toddler headband, but you can change it up to make your own.

I started off taking 3 fabrics, lining them up and cutting 3 strips 15" by 3" as seen here:

I folded the 3 strips in half (lengthwise...the 15" turn into 7.5) and stared cutting strips about 3/4 of an inch in width. You will have 3 strips.

**as you can see in the picture, I am going to have more than 3 strips...I doubled it to make 2 headbands**

Now I cut my extender piece. This is the piece that ties around her head. I am going to be making a frayed headband,so I will not finish the edges. I made my ends more fancy like a leaf, feel free to do a square shape.

I folded my fabric, so that when I cut, I would be able to cut 2 pieces at a time. I cut them 8.5" by 1.5".

I ended up with 4 pieces total.

Now back to your strips. The fun part was braiding them. I lined up mu strips and put them under a corner of my sewing machine to hold it down as I braided.

Get your pins and extenders. Sandwich the ends of the braids into the end of the extender and pin in place. Do both sides.

Now we can sew it all together...and use that machine as something other than a weight :)

Start where you have pinned, to secure the braids in place. To hold it in place tightly, go back and forth over it several times.

Now go around the extenders, to keep them quilted together.

Sit back...admire your new headband...**sigh**

Put it on your pretty princess...L♥vely!

The DIY DISH

2010-03-17T08:50:00.000-07:00

For those of you that have not seen this yet, take a minute, grab your favorite snack or beverage, sit back and....ENJOY :)

(ooops....and don't forget to mute my playlist to the left first)

**click on either picture to see the DIY Dish Blog**

glitter.

2010-03-09T13:11:00.000-08:00

i've been sick....

neglecting my blog....

letting my kids tear up the house....

having take out for dinner....

i am ready to feel better.

glitter always makes me feel warm and fuzzy...

♔

♔

♔

♔

Ahhhh...much better now :)

How does it make you feel?

What will you do?

2010-02-22T09:13:00.000-08:00

Today, I will…

be happy even though it is gloomy and raining outside

strive for perfection, but not be let down if I don’t make it

be the best mom I can be

not over-criticize myself

make a yummy and nutritious dinner (spinach (shhhhh..) tortellini)

not look at my hair in the mirror and think of how I could change it

not eat more than one slice of chocolate cake (even if I want 2)

not sigh when I realize that I am not quite a Psamls 31 woman

try not to think of all the things I could be making if my sewing room was unpacked

hug my kids every hour

not look at other ladies creations and think I fall SO short

remember my good points…like my long eyelashes

play dress up with the kids

get fresh flowers

still do my devotional…even though I missed it and slept in this morning

smile more

be kind to someone that doesn’t deserve it

play super Mario bros on the wii, even if I still need to unpack

look into learning how to knit ;)

take pleasure in beauty...obvious or not

be thankful and content

tell my husband how much he means to me

catch up on old friendships

tell all of you THANK YOU for reading J

Etsy Crushin'

2010-02-19T19:37:00.000-08:00

I found these lovelies on Etsy tonight as I was "fantasy shopping" like I like to call it. If only I could win that lottery (that I never play) :) and spend my days online shopping...hehehe. That would still never happen. Well maybe just one day....

Rose

Bear Hat (which was bought by the time I got the link...TOO cute!!)

Sheep Soap!!

Twin Wear

Red Riding Hood

Cloudy with a chance.....

2010-02-16T09:17:00.001-08:00

I am on the computer sitting next to the kids as they are watching Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs.

I really fell in love with this animated lovely.

My favorite part has to be when Sam is telling

Flint that she used to be a nerd and shows

him her big glasses.

Right before she places them on his head,

you can see what she thought

(before she could see clearly)

Flint looked like.

He had slicked back hair with

a strong structured face.

He puts the glasses on her and she sees

a nerdy guy with a thin face a

crazy hair.

I laughed out loud. Isn't it funny how we can perceive things differently....when we want to?? Like maybe my obsession with crafting, which I see as a cute collection of scrapbook papers, fabrics, threads, sewing machines embroidery machines, buttons, ribbons...that ultimately barely fit into my craft room?

When I walk in there (without glasses) I see a beautiful collection of lovelies. When my husband walks in, he sees threads dangling from...well everything! pins lodged in the carpet and the reason that I stay up late at night. To me, it is Charming. When I walk in there, there is a smile in my heart.....

......so I chose to keep my glasses off :)

source

Happy Valentines Day

2010-02-14T15:13:00.000-08:00

Source

i had to run out to the store today, and what did i see...but men. men scurrying. men trying to find flowers, candy, jewelry. it was funny. i felt like i was in a valentine's commercial. i am so thankful for my life. to have been able to spend the day with the kids.....we got donuts, slushie drinks and pizza today.....i think one of my favorite valentines yet!

Big hugs to all the die hard romantics out there and those that spent the day eating pizza ;)

lovely

2010-02-11T15:11:00.000-08:00

Heather Bullard's blog just brings a smile to my face. She recently posted a tut on making this great soap dispenser from an old mason jar. The instructions look pretty simple and only require one "boy" tool for making the hole in the lid. I will certainly be trying this one out, and once I do, I will post pictures :) We just moved into a new house and through my mind that is clouded with the idea of never ending boxes, I have some ideas for decorating that I CAN'T wait to try out. One of them was using old mason jars for the bathroom to hold toothbrushes, q-tips, cotton balls...etc. This idea fits in perfectly.

tiaras and tulle

2010-02-08T21:18:00.000-08:00

i have a princess. she's 3. she is obsessed with tulle, tiaras and all things shiny. i love her. i love her desire to be a princess. to be a shiny thing herself. she inspires me.

here's to all princesses that love tiaras and tulle.

source: here

smile.

2010-02-07T09:19:00.001-08:00

if i was a little girl again.......

i would........

eat cotton candy everyday

dance my feet off

have so many balloons they could lift me in the air

have pettiskirts in EVERY color. i would wear them with cowboy boots.

marie.

2010-02-05T06:43:00.000-08:00

The Isaiah 43:1 Project

2009-10-22T18:25:00.000-07:00

There is a time, where you have to stop thinking about yourself. A time to stand up, and fight. TO PRAY!! There are many many children that need you today. Children that are hurting. Thanks to Sally of Polkadotmom who has set up a wonderful blog dedicated to helping these children. God has given her a vision. To let each of these beautiful children, KNOW that they are known....they are loved! The blog is The Isaiah 43:1 Project

You can help...go to the blog to get details!

The Lord says, "I have called you by NAME. You are Mine." Isaiah 43:1

Reverse Applique Tutorial

2009-10-20T21:27:00.000-07:00

I have a little boy. A little boy that has ONE set of custom clothes that I made over 2 years ago. My husband has not been "in tune" with him wearing boutique clothes....but a couple of days ago, I told him I'd make him something....AND....he HAS NOT STOPPED TAKING ABOUT IT EVER SINCE!! It is a nice alternative to a daughter that has a closet of custom clothing and takes it a bit more for granted.

This boy, he LOVES transformers, so I promised him an appliqued t-shirt. As I (he) was picking the colors I remembered Ashley's reverse applique tutorial here.

So here is what I did: Gathered supplies needed:

1. fusible interfacing

2. solid colored t shirt (handmade OR store bought) ;)

3. sharp...did I say sharp scissors

4. sewing machine and thread

5. seam ripper (just in case)

Ok so my first step was deciding on the right colors. Then I decided how large I wanted to make the applique. With that in mind, I cut a piece of the interfacing a tad bit larger than my design and ironed it onto the wrong side of my fabic. I then found the Transformer autobot (VERY important to differentiate that) logo :) I started to draw it on the interfacing.

Ok the fun step....I turned the shirt inside out, I pinned the fabric with the interfacing facing me and started to sew a straight stitch around the perimeter.

MAKE VERY VERY sure that as you are tracing your lines, you do not get the bottom of the shirt caught underneath the needle, sew it together as one piece and then pull your hair out in frustration...just saying ;)

Another **Tip** is that I back stitched at the beginning and end of each line (look at the pic below and you can see where the stitching is a little darker at the edges)

Once you have finished your stitching, turn your shirt back to the right side, and it should look something like this:

As you can see, it is not perfect, but with this type of applique, that is ok, almost better. Also I only stitched around once.

Now take out you sharpest scissors (also the smaller the better when trying to get into small spaces) Clip away at the areas that YOU want to see the under lying fabric come through on the design.

clip clip clip away....until you are happy with your design! (also keep in mind that once you wash it, the knit fabric will curl a little)

Here's mine:

Sleeping Princess

2009-10-09T11:55:00.000-07:00

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=230385838570&ssPageName=ADME:L:LCA:US:1123

This sleeping princess applique was made special for Miss L. She loves anything that is girly, twirly and anything PINK! She is a total girl when it comes to fashion. I think if she could wear high heels, she would. There isn't a day (not one) that I do not have to take a lipstick away from her! So this one is for her....I love the way the back came out, it has a "royal" heart with her initial appliqued with a blanket stitch.

Happy

2009-09-16T21:16:00.000-07:00

So I stumbled upon this blog today that made me feel warm and fuzzy all over. We have been renting our house for what we thought would be one year max, and has turned out to be almost 3 years. I am very thankful to have a house. For my husband to have a job....but it has never felt like home here.

The minute I clicked on the link, my ears were consumed with a beautiful melody of years of past. It brought to mind a warming breeze, gazing on fluffy clouds, laying on a weathered old quilt of pinks and green. I couldn't bring myself to stop reading. I read the whole thing twice. Browsing through the beautiful array of pictures of warm and welcoming homes. I just couldn't put it down. Kim drew me into her world of beauty. In that moment I decided to make a change. Although my time here may last another month or perhaps another 3 more years....I want to love my house again. Here is a glimpse of my new design studio. It still has a lot of work to be done and plenty of furniture and accessories to be added, but I am beginning to fall in love with it.

OOOey GOOOey....

2009-08-19T21:36:00.000-07:00

We made this Ooey goey as the kids referred to it. It is actually pretty cool, and even brought a smile to dad's face (as we interrupted him from work to show him). It is pretty much just cornstarch and water mixed together in a bowl. Once it is mixed it turns into magic. You can punch it with a fist and it has the consistency of dry wall. Then, you stick your fingers in and it is LIQUID! So you can (rapidly) roll it into a ball, then watch it melt into liquid form. The kids (and I) loved playing in it. To make it better, clean up was easy (just rinse with warm water) although next time we make it, we will be using the counters.

Recipe:
*Box of cornstarch
*Bowl
*Spoon (or if you're like us...hands)
*Food coloring
*water
.......and you may want to lay newspaper on the floor to avoid taking out the mop :)

Just add water to the cornstarch to get the consistency of a thick glue. I originally read that it was 2c of cornstarch for every cup of water, but that came out to thin....just play around to get the consistency you like....Enjoy!

Fry an egg hot....

2009-08-10T12:24:00.000-07:00

Today has been an indoor day...so we have been nice and cool. It is quite a different story outside. I am not sure of the exact temperature...but I believe it was cooking an egg on the sidewalk HOT! It kinda made me laugh because when it was cool out I remember wanting some warmth...well we've got warmth alright so now I am needing some cold.

In the meantime, we will stay inside, until it cools off a little and have some fresh strawberry lemonade...

Treasure Hunting

2009-08-09T20:35:00.000-07:00

Today was a day of GRAND adventures. We moved the couch.

yep................

yep................

I found precisely 20 monopoly houses
exactly 2 jolly ranchers (still wrapped thank goodness)
undeniably one transformer, two super heros and a barbie

There was also the small matter of small bits of crumbled potato chips and from what I could gather they were of the salt and vinegar variety.

Little Tiny Fairy

2009-06-15T22:28:00.000-07:00

For the love of Gymboree

2009-06-03T08:47:00.000-07:00

For all who love Gymboree, you have to sign up for Amy's wonderful newsletter and check out this blog:

hmmm.....donuts!

2009-06-02T08:18:00.000-07:00

The joy of eating a donut when you are little. Notice the yummy sugar crystals and the perpetual smile on exhibit A.

Exhibit B is showing some signs of indulgence as well...notice the eyes closed.

There was no crumb in sight once these two were finished!

"Tales of a (barely) three year old nothing"

2009-04-18T20:59:00.000-07:00

I put Lexi down for her nap (which she has been challenging me on daily) about two minutes...no one minute, Lexi comes into my studio and says "good morning mommy, good morning...I just woke up."

I look her straight in the eyes with that are you kidding look, and next thing I see is a blur running back to her bed.

Moral of the story, when your 3 year old tells you she doesn't want to take a nap...she means it.

Easter Sunday

2009-04-18T16:31:00.000-07:00

Easter has always had a very special meaning to me, but this year it was even more special....my birthday AND Lexi's bithday fell on Easter Sunday. We made a weekend of it and went to Myrtle Beach on Saturday and Pinehurst on Sunday. Here are my favorite shots of Sunday:

Rockin' their cares away........ (hmmm they'll never want to leave now!!)

ahhhh.....aren't they sweet?

1 Peter 1:3
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead...

Candles and Wishes

2009-03-08T21:16:00.000-07:00

They make me
s m i l e.

As we blow out the candles, (one of our nightly rituals) my kids love to make

wishes

Lexi being only 2 (almost three) has to be warned repeatedly not to try and blow out the candles herself. She gets a little too close to the flames (for my comfort) in reality she is probably plenty far away, but not for mom. She makes the same wish day after day. " I wish it was my special day everyday." As the soft glow of the flames fills her face and her smile widens as she makes her wish, I am transported into a toddler. David has more experience in wishing, he is a pro if you will, so he makes his wishes count. Sometimes they last so long I have to cut him off. Inevitably they include more toys, his birthday being everyday and more toys. They are so happy getting to do something so simple as blowing out a candle. It is one of my favorite parts of the day.

Bad to the BONE!!

2009-03-08T21:12:00.001-07:00

First Motorcycle ride with dad.

Dad=happy

David=thrilled

Lexi=jealous

Mom=sick to her stomach!

Evidence

2009-03-08T21:05:00.000-07:00

ev·i·dence Pronunciation: \ˈe-və-dən(t)s, -və-ˌden(t)s\
Function:noun
Date: 14th century

1 a: an outward sign : indication b: something that furnishes proof : testimony ; specifically : something legally submitted to a tribunal to ascertain the truth of a matter
2: one who bears witness ; especially : one who voluntarily confesses a crime and testifies for the prosecution against his accomplices
— in evidence
1: to be seen : conspicuous
2: as evidence

EXHIBIT A

EXHIBIT B

EXHIBIT C

verdict: GUILTY

me.

2009-03-07T19:58:00.000-08:00

There are a handful of things that I miss, before I had my kids. Mostly, the idea of sleeping peacefully through the night without a foot kicking me in the face is a mere fantasy. I remember having a fast car that only sat 2. I remember not having step on toys on my way to the bathroom at night. That was me.

Now my life is filled with wonderful noise...even if its "leave me alone!!" or my favorite, "stop touching me!!" It is filled with giggling. bubble baths. transformers. barbies. watching cartoons over and over again (until the point, I kinda miss them when they're off). spider-man stunts. songs from the tops of little lungs. my little ponies. pigtails. bows. funny faces. bursts of laughter.

I can't imagine having my life any different. Stepping on toys has become a ritual, and what would I do without the nightly kick to the face? I will gladly give up that fast car for my minivan. Now that is me.

Snow Day in March?

2009-03-06T18:46:00.000-08:00

I think that the statistic was that the last time it snowed in March in this part of the country....we were all wearing leg warmers, side pony tails and we were probably listening to Duran Duran!! :)

We'll I can happily say that I don't wear leg warmers, (although my little girl does!!) and there are no side pony tails in sight. I will admit though that I proudly still listen to Duran Duran, it's just on a cd now!!

A few of my favorite things...

2008-12-16T22:47:00.000-08:00

My sewing room is full of things that I love. Fabric, colors, my computer :), my serger, my sewing machine, and a few others......

-this is my little stash of buttons, they make me smile

-these are my lovely ribbons....that the kids simply can't resist!!

-a sweet little heart pincushion that my son helped me make....I think of him when i see it :)

-yes, I am a bag nut and when I found these, I knew I had to use them.....for now they will house some lovely threads

I inherited a few things from my mother and grandmother. The love of all things handmade. The love for fabric (oh yes....we are all hoarders) The love of pretty things around us. I fought being like them for so many years and now, I can see that these traits have helped make me who I am. Without them, I would have never (eventually) fallen in love with sewing.

thanks gals!

Reindeer

2008-12-13T15:54:00.000-08:00

We had a great time decorating reindeer. The kids were so excited to make them, and even more excited to devour them.....CRUNCH CRUNChhhhhhhhhh!!

Tip of the week

2008-11-19T18:32:00.000-08:00

I decided to try and start a tip of the week. Some of them will be my own, some those that friends and family have shared with me and some that I have found online....enjoy

Today's tip is:

If you use your garbage disposal as much as I do, you may get a not so fresh smell coming from your sink. So head off to the grocery store and pick up some lemons. First squeeze all the juice out into a pitcher, add sugar and water...now you've got fresh lemonade that your family will love. They may smother you with hugs and kisses to show their gratitude. Now for that drain. Take the lemon rinds that are left, and throw them down the disposal and run it. It will smell delicious and fresh without the need of harsh chemicals......then you can sit back and enjoy that fresh lemonade.

(heart) glasses

2008-11-10T20:04:00.000-08:00

I know that I have said it before, but I truly love Christmas. Yeah I am like everyone else that enjoys to see Christmas lights and people more cheerful than usual :), but to me Christmas is so, so, so, much more.

When I was growing up, we never celebrated Santa, we grew up celebrating baby Jesus' Birthday. I can remember in first grade being called out by the teacher. She pulled me aside to tell me that it was not right that I was saying that there was no such thing as SC. In my first grade brain, I could not even fathom any understanding in which that made sense. I remember feeling horrible. As I grew older, I had a lot more tolerance for the subject and even entertained the thought a time or two. It wasn't until I became a Christian, my sophomore year in High School that my teachings as a child caught up with me. I definitely began to see things in a new light. It was like my friend describes the first day she wore glasses...she was astounded that there were leaves on the trees because up to that point, she had just seen green blobs. That was me. I was just seeing blobs and that year, I put my (heart) glasses on and saw the world in a new way. That is why Christmas is so special to me. I hope that at my house we celebrated it everyday. Maybe not with a tree or lights, but in our hearts rejoicing and sharing God's love.

I hope that you too are touched by the light of God this year and are able to put on your (heart) glasses.

Crocodiles or Alligators

2008-11-09T20:10:00.000-08:00

I read this question online today, "Would you rather a crocodile attack you or an alligator", while you are pondering the complexities of this rather disturbing thought, I will tell you that is has double meaning. The best answer is I would rather the crocodile attack the alligator :) If you read it again you will see the double meaning.

It really made me think. Life is full of these double meanings and the answer you chose is up to you. I personally have a profound faith in God. I try to live my life in a manner that glorifies God as well as uplifts others. Obviously this may not always be the case. Like when my kids are fighting over who gets the fruit loops and who gets the captain crunch in the middle of the grocery store. This too is a double meaning, I can be irritated at them bickering , or I can chose to be glad that they think for themselves. That they are healthy. That they are not hungry. I can chose to be grateful for the blessing that God has given me.

Tomorrow I will be conscious of this sentence and try to live my day in a positive light not complaining that the alligator may eat me, but instead that it will eat the crocodile and I challenge you to join me.

Sparkle Shimmer and Shine

2008-11-06T15:26:00.000-08:00

This a sneak peak at my newest auction that will be listed tonight...come check it out....

The time has come.....

2008-11-01T15:15:00.000-07:00

I am happy to announce tone of the newest Ebay groups Mielle Couture. boutique with a touch of honey. It is comprised of some of the greatest ladies I have met on Ebay. We were featured on Boutique Buyers Blog. We are having a launch starting November 6 thru to the 20th. Please come check us out, you'll be glad you did.

Ode to Mr. Peabody

2008-10-25T14:57:00.000-07:00

Mr Peabody for those of you that don't know, is my trustee companion, a blue seam ripper. I have usually taken him for granted and often spoken of how I hate to use him. It is in my deepest regret that I inform you all that my ol'blue buddy has gone missing. Perhaps by the small hands of a 4 or smaller hands of a 2 year old. I have searched high and low, overturning fabric and threads, yet he is no where to be found. I have drafted this to him in the event that he may return to me:

Dear Mr. Peabody,

In the past day, it was brought to my attention that you have gone missing. I am afraid that it could be in part my fault. I am afraid that I have not been the nicest to you. In fact it is usually when I am looking for you, that I am in the worst of moods. I usually reach for you in a frustrated state of mind, wondering where I have gone wrong. Recalling these such events has brought me to the conclusion that I have neglected you. Please accept this as a deeply true apology that is perhaps a bit overdue, but hopefully not entirely too late.

I have in fact seen the err of my ways and want to take this time to tell you that I miss you immensely and I can no longer create without your assistance. I will promise to be kinder and happier at the sight of you. If you can accept my apologies, I will be here waiting with a pile of clothes that need mending.

Yours truly,

Ingrid

-~~Oh NO! Has anyone seen my pin cushion!!!

Thank you.

2008-10-13T22:22:00.000-07:00

You know that time when you have so much going on that you don't really sit down to think? We'll the other morning I found myself ALONE in my car with nothing but my thoughts to keep me company. You should know that I am a big GABBER, so my thoughts were coming by the boat loads :) As I basked in the glory of silence, no "MOOOOOM he's hitting me", or "MOOOOOOM turn on a movie" I got an empty feeling in the pit of my stomach. You see my parents who are doing Missionary work in South America have been visiting us for the past 2 months. My mom is a typical Italian mom that has been doing the bulk of cleanin, cooking and child-rearing at my house. In someways I reverted back to high school, letting her take the reigns over the house and I sat by and focused on my business. We'll she and my dad are leaving tomorrow and it has just him me. There will be no more sleeping in, no more peace and quite. I will wake up Wednesday to the reality of MY REAL LIFE. In my obscure demented mind I have been trying to convince them to come and live with us, but I know that the work God has for them is very important. They are helping so many people and sharing the Word of God throughout the world. And really this is my biggest blessing. To have a mom and dad that are selfless to God and that are following His will despite their selfish daughters wishes. :) I thank God everyday to have such loving grandparents for my children and loving in-laws for my husband, but mostly I am so thankful that they are Christians and have taught me to seek God first. I hope that I will be able to follow in their footsteps for my own
children. So thank you mom and dad.....I will miss you while you are away, but I look foward to seeing you again soon.

Love, Ingrid

The most wonderful time of the year...

2008-10-12T22:00:00.000-07:00

It is the time of year that I love the most, the weather goes from muggy and hot to crisp and cool. The leaves go from bright green to beautiful shades of orange and yellow. And our shirts go from tanks to long sleeved. It makes me want to sit outside with a cup of warm cocoa and just listen to the leaves falling. I can't help to drift back to my childhood to the fun of jumping into a pile of fresh raked leaves and the smell of fresh baked apple pie from my mom's kitchen. I hope that I too can make these timeless traditions a part of my own kids' lives. And that they may one day think back to those times as well.

I am not sure if it because it seems to have cooled off a bit earlier this year or the fact that I am wore out from a summer spent in the sun, but I am ready to start the holidays. I am ready to start baking and preparing for our Thanksgiving dinner and ready to start taking out my Christmas boxes and decorating our tree. I am ready to see my kids faces light up as we turn the twinkle lights on for the first time this year.....I am ready.

As I leave you with these thoughts I hope that you too can take a minute and reminisce of the days gone by, enjoy each day to the fullest, and be thankful for all of your blessings.

Until we meet again,

Ingrid

Happiness is...

2008-10-10T10:26:00.000-07:00

Deck the halls with boughs of fabric......

2008-10-04T21:24:00.000-07:00

You know that dream where you don't want to wake up? Where you are so happy and content to be in sleepsville? I am in a current state of that euphoria. I am able to do something that I really love to do. I am creating whimsical clothing for little girls. I actually get to create something that brings smiles to children, and I often think.......am I dreaming?....pinch me! Not only do I have an overwhelming love for color composition and design I love fabric and notions. I whole heartedly thank my loving husband for all of his hard work for our family his abundant support and for his constantly lifting me up (not literally :)). And my wonderful kids who are my inspiration in all I create.

This year christmas has come early to our home. There is Christmas fabric all over my studio. I really do LOVE christmas! That is really no shock to anyone who knows me, but I have begun the celebration a little earlier than usual. My kids are already watching their Christmas movies and The Grinch that Stole Christmas is playing on my t.v. as I type. It really is no not a big surprise that it has carried on in my creations. I would like to share a few Christmas sets that I currently have listed on ebay. They are really beautiful, I put a lot of work and my whole heart into them. They are filled with adorable machine and hand applique.

So I encourage each and every one of you to join me in inviting the joy of Christmas into your hearts.................Love, Ingrid

past designs

2008-10-01T21:27:00.000-07:00

WELOVEMUD

2008-05-21T14:15:00.000-07:00

As a wife and a mom, this story really touched me. Below are pictures of the set that I am auctioning off on Ebay for Mud's family.

2008-05-21T14:13:00.000-07:00

See it HERE

2008-05-21T14:12:00.000-07:00

See it HERE

WUUUU-HUUUU!!

2008-05-17T21:57:00.000-07:00

If a picture is worth a thousand words, this one is no exception. How great to be 2 again, so free and happy. I personally think she was overwhelmed by her beautiful outfit;) I see this picture and can't help but say Wuuuu-Huuuuuu!!!

This is a new set I just listed. It Is made of a sweet blue vintage repo fabric. I loved the fabric the minute I saw it. It reminds me of childhood. recess. singing london bridges falling down. and giggling about boys. I hope it can put a smile on your face as well.

you can see it HERE

Birthday Wishes

2008-05-17T21:39:00.000-07:00

This is a new custom set I recently made for BonAmi's Birthday Bash. It was so much fun to make. It is so girly and sassy. I think it would be great on a little girl's Birthday or for any occasion! It has rouching,ruffles, and roses. Not to mention he twirl-ability factor is 150%!!

see it HERE

Bliggidy Bloggidy Boo

2008-04-16T21:17:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my new blog, Ribbons and Pigtails that will showcase my boutique fashions.

ribbons and pigtails

2008-04-16T13:53:00.001-07:00