Suzy D Inspired

before and after

2012-01-30T19:24:00.012-05:00

For christmas, I got a silhouette cameo!
Since then, I've been cutting up a storm.

Any hoo! I had a $2.00 small white tee-shirt in my stash, but it's cold here in Indiana!!

So...Enter an old well used long sleeved infant shirt.
(sorry I forgot before pics)

First I cut off the neck, sleeves and bottom hem. This is what it looks like now.

I then attached each in it's proper spot inside the white shirt.

My grandson LOVES tractors, so his Mimi ( that's me) just had to cut one out of flocked vinyl and iron it on the front of the newly designed shirt.

I also added his name ( which happens to be the name of a tractor co. in Indiana!) to the tractor. Soooo cute!

Another year has come and gone!

2012-01-19T12:09:00.009-05:00

OLLIE IS 2!!

Oliver has yet to "request" his birthday cake, so....
I decided I should make him " The very hungry caterpillar" for his #2 birthday.
The cake was a BIG hit!
Happy Birthday Ollie

HOW TOMAKE YOUR OWN.
2 cake mixes, bunt cake pans , 1 large can white frosting. green,yellow,blue food coloring. red paste food dye.
yellow and green fruit roll ups ,gushers,1 green jelly bean,
1 black licorice stick
make 2 bunt cakes ( I used funfetti )
cut 1 in half for the top hump.
cut the leftover half, in half for the " neck and tail"
using the other cake , cut wedges to fill in to make the shape. " glue " with frosting.
for the head , slice several "straight" pieces and stack to make a round shape. " glue" together with matching frosting.

Using 3/4 of 1 large can of white frosting in a bowl and green,yellow and blue food color. start with green and frost several sections of the caterpillar in stripes.
then add yellow to the green frosting to for a different color, frost more stripes blending with the 1st green stripes. Finally add the blue to the frosting, changing the color once more and frost stripes blending them with the others. This will make the multi colored body.
With the rest of the white frosting add red PASTE food dye for a deep red face.
for the eyes I used yellow fruit roll ups cut in a oval shape topped off with green fruit roll ups cut into a bit smaller oval. For the nose I used a green jelly bean.
The antena is black licorice . The feet are gushers.
all the fruit candy was purchased in a mixed selection box.

invasion of THE ANGRY BIRDS

2011-11-18T08:42:00.005-05:00

Here is the last cake till Dec.

Connor had a bowling party with his friends for his 6th birthday!

The Angry Birds were invited too.(They did not however bowl).

Here is my ATTEMPT @ the cake.

I think the kids LOVED it.

I Love you Buddy!

Connor is ALREADY 6!

2011-11-16T16:42:00.008-05:00

For 6 years I've been making my oldest grandsons BIRTHDAY CAKE. Each year we try to out do the last. Connor puts in the order and I oblige. With the Craze of ANGRY BIRDS ,
a 6 year old boy and you got it an Angry Birds theme.

Connor's Kindergarten class endulged in a mecca of sugary delight! (sorry mom's). We made 28 angry bird and pig cupcakes. I did the prep,then put a picture in front of connor and this is what he made.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY CONNOR

Thanks to Brooke for the great tutorial!

CAKE CAKE CAKE

2011-11-16T16:19:00.008-05:00

Wow! I've been up to my ears in cake the past month.
First, I was honored to make my sister and new brother in-laws wedding cake for thier reception. They were married in Sedona Arizona and had a reception in thier home.
**(disclaimer)** I am not the CAKE BOSS!!

But I did have fun. Here is my effort.

Thanks Sis for trusting me with your cake.

All WET

2011-08-02T17:10:00.009-04:00

Last week Oliver and Mimi went to the water park.
It was 104 with the heat index and we (I) needed to cool off.

Thinking Oliver would LOVE it (HE DID NOT!!!!)

I put on his suit and off we went

You can see he is much happier in the stroller and NOT in the water.

I love his white hair, BIG blue eyes and toothy smile!

ANGRY BIRDS

2011-08-02T16:02:00.015-04:00

Since Connor starts all day Kindergarten in a couple weeks, I won't be sitting for him regularly any more. I wanted to do a fun craft project. I had purchased a white tee shirt on sale at
Hobby Lobby and I was "itching" do do SOMETHING with it.

After discussing it with Connor we decided to paint an angry bird on it!
I googled "angry birds coloring page" and printed his choice out on plain paper.
Then placing it under a piece of freezer paper I traced the complete design on the ROUGH side to make a iron on stencil.
I did all the cutting and ironing and Connor did the painting.
I think he was pleased with his craftiness and I was too.

getting rid of clutter one shoe at a time

2011-06-26T15:58:00.006-04:00

Though some may like this "LOOK" I was getting tired of it!

I was trying to find a solution When I ran across a "shoe cabinet"

in a Japanese table book!
" Brilliant" I exclaimed!! Well not really but I wanted to!

Any way while shopping for one just the right size and price I scored this baby ( for only 27.00).

( in it's first life it was a corner tv cabinet). As usual I didn't get a real" before" pic. First the hubs added a matching bull nose to the three sides of the top that had been flat, took off the masonite back and side panels with ply-wood and trimmed it out.
It was then kilzed, painted out with old paint (Alabaster by Valspar) I'd used on another project, added new knobs.

Wanting a fun surprise I painted the inside THIS color!

(Spa blue by Decoart)
Now we have a shoe cozy!
What do you think?

Happy Father's Day 2011

2011-06-18T16:36:00.014-04:00

What dad doesn't love to eat or grill??

Well I have the perfect thing to please either!

It's a grill cake. How cute is this??

I saw something like this somewhere. ( I think in a magazine )

I thought my grandsons would get a kick out of it.

The cake was baked in a prepared aluminum bowl.

The coal and fire are cookie crumbled and mixed with black gel, and m&m's.

The hamburgers are oat meal cookies brushed with cocoa powder.

and topped with "cheese" colored fondant.

The hot dogs are stubby pretzels wrapped in fondant

and tinted with red and blue color and brushed with cinnamon.

The lines were also made by dipping a tooth pick

in cinnamon to create "grill marks"

Both the legs and handles were wrapped in fondant as well.

The body of the grill was frosted in white

then sprayed red with wilton red food spray.

I think this would make a great 4th of July cake too,try it!

Linked to

Father's Day gift

2011-06-03T21:19:00.016-04:00

Father's day is fast approaching and I helped my grandsons make their Daddy an amazing gift that I think he'll cherish for ever.
While browsing the web I came across THIS site and adorable DIY for Father's Day and just had to make it. I just noticed we both used very similar fabrics! (It was the best "boy fabric" in my stash that didn't have robots, or dogs on it). I followed her instructions with a few changes. ( just make sure you have the hands arranged so they will fit the size opening you want BEFORE you iron them on and sew around them. I found the frame at T J MAXX on clearance. The frame was already matted and had a picture in it. I just ripped out the ugly picture and re-framed it with the adorable hand prints of my little sweeties! I also decided not to put the cute saying on the frame because it was not a "crafty " styled frame. This was a pretty easy project and one that is a real keeper! If you double click on the pictures you'll notice the boy's names and ages are written beside each wrist. *NOTE* if you have a little one, you may want to trace their hand while he's sleeping! just a thought. :) Please check out roots and wings co. she has wonderful tutorials!

Suzan

Hand made padded envelope

2011-05-22T09:28:00.006-04:00

Needing a quick craft "fix", I decided to venture to somewhere a little different in CRAFT LAND.
I made this one of a kind padded mailing envelope.

As an Etsy shop owner, I use padded mailers quite a bit. I don't use enough consistently to by them in bulk.
I used to make a lot of cards so I have tons of scrap book paper.

The first thing I did was take 2 12x12 pieces of paper and cut 2 inches off one.
I used 4 pieces of double stick tape ( that has protective layer that needs to be removed) on the inside of the longest one. (12x12 )
I then tacked (with another small piece of double faced tape) padding ( 11x9 ) in the middle of each sheet of paper, leaving an edge of about 1/4 in.
Next, I carefully laid the smaller piece to the larger piece.
I pressed all around the edges to make a nice seal.
Using a straight edge, I carefully folded the top edge down to make a flap.
I used more tape, leaving the protective layer on until I actually use it.
Then I used the scrap two inches of the paper and cut it a bit larger than a mailing label.
I happened to use double sided paper so I used the contrasting side and punched a flower design in one corner and put on the mailing label.
I really love the way it turned out. I would love getting this baby in my mail box.

ITEMS NEEDED:
2 12x12 heavy scrap book paper
Double sided tape ( you can get scrap booking tape ) I used terrifically tacky tape it has a red protective layer.
Mailing label
Small flower ( or what ever type you want ) punch.
Bubble wrap recycled from old mailer,or purchased at the roller tree.

Hope this tutorial is helpful.
NOTE: To make different sizes just adjust the measurements to fit your needs.
NOW GO MAKE ONE YOURSELF

More Totes

2011-05-21T15:49:00.006-04:00

I'm so excited about this pattern. Can you tell??

Each one is so different and so cute in it's own way

I think some these are going to a couple of women at my Hubbies work.

Just wanted to show them off.

Suzy

Isn't She Lovely

2011-05-18T08:00:00.005-04:00

I have always wanted one of these vases, so while on a thrifting trip to find a cabinet to re-do (that will be another post) I ran across her!!! I instantly wanted "LUCY" I think she looks like Lucille Ball any way... Not one of my Thriftiest moments though. Lucy cost a whopping $39.00.
She still had the circa 1958 Hooks price tag for .98 and I paid $.39.00 !! Please Someone tell me she was a bargain and really worth like I don't know maybe a million?
Well I love her any way and my Hubby is the one who talked me into getting her! Love him.

More cuteness

2011-05-17T10:52:00.008-04:00

Can you tell that I really love this lunch bag pattern??

I cant stop making them. It all started with this one just so I could use that adorable turtle fabric.

Now I'm hooked. My other sis K. loves green so.... you know I just had to make one for her.

While enjoying a Very Rare day off I went Targeting and found these fab kitchen towels

and you got it... more cool lunch bags. These are all "cool" because they have insulating fabric and wipe off water resistant rip stop nylon lining them. The drawstring inner cover is nice so no goodies can fall out, and it nearly doubles the amount of items you can put in it.

I think this would make a great purse or even a great diaper bag for shorter trips.

I also made this nice wris-let key fob,

using some of the pretty ribbon used in the apple lunch tote. This will go in my etsy shop.
If you love buying hand made check it out.

35 years! AND LOVELY FLOWERS

2011-05-05T18:03:00.004-04:00

I've been with my best friend for 35 years today!

May 5th 1976 was our first date. Thirty five years together, 33.5 married, two kids, a son in law and a daughter in law and two grandsons later and ALL IS GOOD ;).

HAPPY 35 HONEY!!

Suzy

THE TURTLE TOTE LUNCH BAG

2011-05-05T10:36:00.010-04:00

My oldest sister C. and her husband were here for Easter.
While here, C. saw my Etsy stuff and loved the turtle fabric I used on the bib set.

Always wanting to make something new, I asked what she'd like me to make her out of the adorable fabric. ENTER the "Turtle Tote" Lunch bag.
C. said that it had to be big enough to hold a frozen lunch box.

I found this perfect FREE Tutorial + a whole lot more at Pink Penguin. Thanks Ayumi! I made a few changes.

Instead of stabelizer I used insul-bright to keep the lunch cold.
I used rip stop nylon which is water resistant instead of the plastic coated fabric.
I also used the combined amount of outer and inner bag fabric size. (ie.. 18 1/2 x 12 1/2) Instead of two 9 x 12 1/2 because I used the same fabric and didn't need a seam.

Other than that I followed her WONDERFUL and EASY instructions and start to finish
2 hr.10min.
I've always loved the bags with the drawstring cover and thought ugh... I'll never be able to do that! I was way wrong. Ayumi's Tute was GREAT!!!

Making crayons using crayons

2011-04-15T09:17:00.011-04:00

Today I only had my grandsons for a short time, but I wanted Connor who is 5 to have some Activity to do with his Mimi.

Ollie is only one, so he watched!

So we made (re-made) crayons! I got these boxes of crayons for 23 cents a box, and since I have a very limited amount of old crayons I used these.

First Connor peeled off the paper.

Then we broke them in smaller pieces. I let Connor decide what colors to put in the silicone pan.

(I got the pan at Hobby Lobby for under $2.00 in the summer party area.)

AN ADULT NEEDS TO DO THE NEXT FEW STEPS!!! I then put the pan on a sturdy baking stone (any cookie sheet will do) and placed it into a pre- heated oven @350%. Then sat and watched as the wax melted.

DO NOT LEAVE THE KITCHEN WHEN YOU ARE MELTING WAX!!!!!

it took about 6 Minutes. CAREFULLY remove the HOT wax from the oven.

I let them get cool to the touch on top of the stove,

then put pan in frig till the crayons were fully hardened

(about 10 min). Then I let Connor pop

out his new crayons and start coloring.

He told me "I've never made these only in my dreams!!!"

then I melted yes... pun intended

MORE GIVE AWAY FUN!

2011-04-12T13:13:00.011-04:00

Heres another Sweet give a way from PokkaDots over at ThetrendyMommyblog sign up for the snazzy zebra tote bag with momogram!! Tell a friend too

And the winner is.......

2011-04-11T15:59:00.004-04:00

I'm happy to announce the lucky winner of my GIVE AWAY
over at The Trendy Mommy! And the winner is .........
Entry # 12 Emillie Rose! She chose the boys bug bib and burp set.

Thanks to every one who entered! I'll be sending you a code by E-mail
For free shipping on your next order at little peeps.

Review and Give away!!

2011-03-24T20:58:00.004-04:00

Hi,

I'm excited!!

This week my etsy shop will be featured on The Trendy Mommy Blog.

Karyn is a mom of 4 young'ens and ask to review one of my bibs on her blog!

I'm doing a give away there too! Just go visit her site,read her review and leave a comment.

She will have several different opportunities to get in more entries ( or chances to win ) your choice of either my boys bug bib and burp set or my girls lady bug bib and burp set!

If you will, please leave me a comment and let me know what you like in my shop or what you would love to see.

Tell your friends about it too :)

Good Luck on the contest!!

Boys bug and burp set Girls ladybug bib and burp set

Happy Birthday Oliver

2011-01-17T19:05:00.017-05:00

What a big boy!

Our Oliver is ONE!

Jan 2011
Seems like it was yesterday that this wonderful little boy came into our lives.

Jan 2010

Mimi made him the FARMER of his own Farm!! Well kind-a.

His cake is a chocolate barn with a barnyard full of chicks,pigs and sheep.

By the looks of the pictures, Olie loves Pork (he ate a pig cupcake) haha.

I made his bib using his Papa's Jean leg and some " overall " clips.

To FARMER him up a bit. And topped him off with a John Deere hat.

I think he's adorable!!

I got the cake idea and instructions from here.

http://www.bettycrocker.com/tips/tipslibrary/baking-tips/creative-cakes-templates-how-tos?parent={CE5F522A-1178-4BD9-A260-D83F68775A10}

Can' t wait to start planning his next cake !!

Happy Birthday Little Man!

He's how old???

2010-11-16T20:17:00.020-05:00

Happy 5th Birthday Connor! It's that time again!! Connor is 5, and although he's NEVER eaten a hamburger,

when he saw a hamburger cake in a book he said "Mimi make this one when I'm 5." I am always up for a challenge, so I jumped at the chance!

I didn't want to poke things in the top of the " bun" so I created a large fries and drink ( to round out the meal ) and also to put the birthday boy's info out there. I've always wanted to try fondant and found this recipe for marshmallow fondant that was really easy to make.

http://chiccookiekits.blogspot.com/2010/03/finallyhomemade-marshmallow-fondant-and.html The lettuce,onions,cheese,and sesame seeds are all fondant. The buns are Carmel cake frosted in carmel frosting and the burger is dark fudge chocolate cake un frosted. My hubby thought it would look more real. I think he was right!

I thought I'd take pics as I put it together.

That didn't work too well. Yes that is a hairdryer you see!

Havn't you ever seen the cake boss?

(he uses heat ...or is it steam?) I think it's steam duh...oh well I was trying to make the fondant shinny. DO NOT use a hair dryer unless you want to melt the frosting!

As you can see Connor loved the cake.

Can't wait to see what he picks for next year!

Linked to get your craft on @ Todays crafty blog

BOO :)

2010-10-22T14:57:00.006-04:00

Hi,
Just a little post to let you see what my 4yr old grandson and I made the other day.
I painted the big orange B and painted his hands white to make the oo in BOO.
Quick and easy! I dipped the end of a paint brush in the orange paint to make the faces, then used black for the insides.

Linked up at http://todayscreativeblog.net/

Starring the I pad.....Drum roll please!

2010-10-03T17:44:00.007-04:00

While at best buy looking for a new modem ,I came across the i pad.
The hubs has been drooling (I mean researching) them for a while and thought it would be fun to have one, and I'm here to tell you It is!! We came home with one that very night.
Looking at the plethora of sleeves they were selling I decided I could make one for way less $$
So...I did. I was on tip nut this morn and there was a wonderful tutorial by Shelly Miller Leer to make this awesome sleeve. This was very easy and I had everything I needed including a suede coat that I used for the trim. What do you think??

No Internet!

2010-10-03T17:18:00.008-04:00

Oh No!! No Internet

My Internet has been down 2 weeks now! Who knew a body could miss such a thing. I’ve missed my crafty blog sites Alot !! I have been doing a little sewing though. More baby things. I plan to get these up on my etsy shop soon, but if anyone wants any of it you can e-mail me and let me know. These were really fun to do. I love the embellishment best of all. I am getting more work done around the house. Hmmm…. wonder if that’s what the hubby was thinking when he changed internet providers! I’ve got a new job, 6 days a week with 1 client and one day with the 2 grandkids. Not a lot of time left to do much of anything. It feels good to be Bringing in a paycheck after having been laid off eleven weeks ago. Hope you enjoyed the bib and burp sets.
They sell for $16.00 per set.

week wordkey

2010-09-11T18:15:00.008-04:00

I'm a little late due to a miserable head cold and grandkids for two days.
Love the grandkids hate the cold!!

Sally at Sow and Sew chose our week word

KEY
The word KEY can be a noun or an adjective .
A KEY can be an item that un-locks and it can be essential, important an answer or solution .
There are Latch KEY Kids. A KEY as a means of entry to the closet of "skeletons"? hmmm...
How about that KEY that translates the map? I always wanted the KEY with the answers to the BIG TEST!!!

wrinkles of humanity

2010-09-03T01:00:00.005-04:00

Junebug chose the word WRINKLES

for the weekword this week. check out her blog to see others participating.

When I think of the word wrinkle I think of all of humanity.

Those wonderfully soft folds of a new born baby,and the happy facial expression of a smile.
We see wrinkles on hands that have worked tirelessly and concern on a troubled face.
I've seen that satisfied look on a proud child's face, the electrifying look of surprise.

I've seen the agony and distress of pain and the time worn lines of old age.

Here are some of my pictures of humanity.

Can you think of any more wrinkles of humanity?

click to enlarge

BEGIN

2010-08-27T10:11:00.007-04:00

Well here it is!

I'm not much for writing, but I do like graphics.

Seeing the weekword begin, I began to think of all this word entails.

Thanks S.Minegar for the inspiring word!
Check out her blog and see the links to all the others participating in this weekword

click on pic to enlarge

Recovering

2010-08-14T09:26:00.007-04:00

click for larger view

I've not been doing much crafting as of late.

I had a bone graft in my mouth and have felt pretty #$@*&%.

But the other night when I couldn't sleep I created this!

I printed out the letters in mirror first.

Then I traced the words on freezer paper.

I then hand cut out all the letters, ironed it to the onsie and painted.

I think Oliver looks adorable in it.

click the picture to view larger

A wonderful week-end

2010-07-14T10:21:00.014-04:00

We had an awesome time last weekend.

First we got to spend it with our best friends,
(a big shout out to W&J) who we don't see often enough!

Second we spent it in a wonderful B&B.

The Inn at Irwin Gardens in Columbus Indiana.

A wonderful mansion built in 1864 and updated in 1910. Wonderful hosts Jim and Eve , wonderful food , and BEST friends what more could you ask for? This lovely historical town has submerged it's self in Architecture and the arts, boasting architects/ firms such as Gunnar Birkerts,Harry Weese,Taft Architects and Artist's Dale Chihuly's wonderful sculpted glass in the Visitors Center, and Jo Saylors scupture "Puddles and Frog Pond" which can be found at the Bartholomew Consolidated Shchool Admin bldg.

Here is a quick view of our visit.
click on pictures for larger view

This is the back of the mansion and the garden.

The grand stair way and hand carved celings.

All of the furnishings are original to home.

Great Fun!

adding to my etsy shop

2010-07-12T22:24:00.010-04:00

I'm adding items other than baby things to my etsy shop.

Here are some really nice Tea/drink mix wallets.

They keep your tea bags and such

from getting dirty or lost in the bottom of your purse!

I think these would make great gifts.

Help Oliver go to college

2010-07-06T00:22:00.005-04:00

Help Oliver go to College

Help my adorable Grandson win a scholarship

through Gerber by voting for him in the Gerber baby photo contest!

1. go to http://www.gerber.com/photo/#/vote/
2. click VOTE
3. SEARCH PHOTOS
4. enter: Oliver, South Bend
5. Vote by entering your email address,

click the Gerber baby "security check,"

and click VOTE NOW

Thanks for your support!

designing with mimi

2010-06-25T22:05:00.012-04:00

4th of July activity.

I got this idea from Daisha

So I did this activity with my 4 yr old grandson and his 5 mo. old brother.
the baby didn't do much of his. :)
I think it went well.
I don't know where the photo of Connor painting his shirt is.

He had a great time and loves his new shirt!

click here to se a larger view.( the stars are kinda hard to see)
These are the items we used.I mix the fabric medium with the paint

to make it softer and premanent when washed.

First make sure they cover up their good clothes as shown in the first picture!

We made them each a little different.

On Oliver's onsie, I used the fabric medium and paint with no water. I used a foam brush and pounced to fill in the whole area. (kind of thick and took a long time to dry)

We added water to Connor's paint and fabric medium mix ,

and used a Sea sponge and he lightly pounced the paint on.

I like the look , it dries real fast and the project goes real fast.

(important when working with a 4 year old!!)

Oliver's onsie during the painting process

adorable post-it-note covers

2010-06-24T14:37:00.001-04:00

I have tons of scrap booking stuff, but I rarely scrapbook. I do, however, make cards and other nifty things. I came across this fun notepad cover idea back in November and I have since made a zillion! They are fun and easy.

Here are some I have done:

And here's how it's done:

Go to your favorite local crafting center and get a book covering kit. Mine is the 3'' x 3" kit from Michael's--it's perfect for post-it notes. My kit included a plastic template, note pads, and cardboard spine and covers for about 3 or 4 books. This kit will get you started (with supplies, dimensions, and a reusable template) but once you get the hang of things, you can probably go kit free.

I now have my handy husband cut the covers and spines (he is more accurate than me!) out of illustration board and I get my post-it notes in bulk whenever they are on sale. You can buy pastel colors or just the regular yellow. I recommend using 15 x 20" illustration board-Medium (mine is from Hobby Lobby ) and cutting it yourself-- it will save you a lot of moolah!

These make great gifts. ENJOY!!

* If you'd like more detailed instructions, check out my tutorial.*

Post-it- note minibook tutorial

2010-06-24T14:17:00.002-04:00

Here is the tutorial for the minibook as seen on a previous post of mine.

I think you will enjoy crafting these cuties.

* I find my self-healing crafting mat is especially helpful for this project, as it keeps table surfaces from getting damaged.

~~

mini-book supplies:

2 squares of 3 1/4" illustration board and one spine 3/8" x 3 1/4"
any 2 pieces of decorative paper, sized at least 8 1/2 "x 5 "
any embellishments you'd like to add .

Use the template and any regular weight scrap book paper.

Trace and cut out the outside cover of your book.

Then cut out a liner of your choice, 3" x 6 3/4"

Glue front, back, and binding piece to the paper.

Then fold and glue the long sides down, then do the same for the shorter, end pieces.

If your design includes some type of ribbon around the sides, make sure that you bring it around to the inside before you glue in the liner. This keeps the book neat. The same thing goes for rivets and pins used for embellishment or as closures.

Paste in your paper liner.

Let the paper dry, then crease the insides of the spine just to make a clean fold.

Now get out all of your "bling," embellish, and have fun!

Some of my secrets:

A trick I use when gluing is to use an old magazine.This keeps my crafting surfaces clean and allows me to glue right up to the edge. Use a clean page for each glue up, then turn the page. Once the pages dry they can be used over and over again.

The easiest way to keep the cover shut is to use ouchless hair bands. These are just the right size! I usually tie on a charm or button to dress it up a little.

IT'S A WRAP

2010-06-21T10:21:00.000-04:00

It's a Wrap

I just got a new dog a couple of months ago.

Max is an 18 month old Maltipoo.

While taking Max for a walk the other day,

I noticed he is a hyper dog and pulls,

choking himself with each step.

ENTER THE WRAP!

(click to se a larger view. )

I decided to make a wrap that takes all the pressure off Max's neck.

The wrap is easy to get on and off,

and because of the reversable nature of the wrap,

the webbing works as a handle as well.

If you have a little one,

you know how important it can be

to swoop the little thing up in a hurry

(when a big dog comes by and TINY thinks he's Mr. BIG!** CHOMP**)

It works like a charm.
Max and I enjoy his walks now!
I will be getting the tutorial / template done and
posting it soon.

Old into new

2010-04-29T00:22:00.016-04:00

I GOT THIS BEAUTIFUL ANTIQUE CRAFTSMAN ROCKING CHAIR FROM MY SISTER!

**Double click on the pictures to enlarge**

after much elbow grease and refinisher, it looked like this.

With these tools I began to take off the leather,tacks and
Several layers of burlap and some kind of straw-like substance.

the chair had a nice set of springs in pretty good shape.
check out the 100 yrs. of dust!!!

I was very pleased to find out that there were finished slats

in the back! I will not cover over those.

I'll be back with more !

some cuteness

2010-03-07T17:35:00.029-05:00

Thanks to some of my favorite blog sites and their fun patterns,

I've been sewing some cuteness!

This super soft frog was made with a free pattern from: Lilblueboo

I had fun with the tongue! Look close, it has dragonflies on it.

TIME'S FUN WHEN YOU'RE HAVING FLIES!!

This cute little chick hand puppet washcloth (Wow that's a mouthful) is one of my creations.

Having 2 grandsons ages 4yrs. and 9 weeks, I 'm thinking of Easter and wouldn't this look cute in Oliver's Easter Basket??

I just used 1/2 of a yellow cotton washcloth and some ribbon for the beak and wings and extra fabric for the eyes and in no time I had this little chick!

For this Hip, Hippie Onsie,

(Another Oliver gift) I diluted some acrylic paint, tied up the Onsie and dipped it into the paint.

I squeezed out the excess and made sure not to let the colors run together.

I let it hang dry and ironed it to set the colors.

Using the instructions from Homemadeby jill, I stenciled the PEACE sign in bright green paint.

You Guessed it!

Oliver needed a bib for his 1st. Valentines day and St. Patrick's day So....

Mimi made him a reversible one!

This little cutie was a FREE pattern from Beeper Bebe

It's so easy!

I made mine out of yellow minke fabric.

linked to get your craft on @Todays creative blog

Thanks mom

2010-02-08T19:35:00.013-05:00

Socks Beautiful Socks!

I love the look of hand knit socks,

but the tiny yarn and 4 needles kept me

from knitting a pair of my own.

I made my mom this (sock sack) . It's for sock knitters!

find the tutorial here

and she made me these!! Aren't these beautiful?

THANKS MOM!

Heeeeere's Oliver!

2010-01-24T15:26:00.005-05:00

I just wanted to welcome our newest family member.
Oliver Joseph Dixon, was born Jan 14, 2010 at a whopping 8 lbs and 20 inches long.
Baby, mommy,daddy and Big brother are doing well.
Here are a few pics.

Connor turns 4

2009-11-17T21:26:00.029-05:00

Happy Birthday Connor!

It's been four years since our little man came into the world.

Once again, I was honored to be chief cakebaker. Connor wanted a golf cake, so....Mimi made a golf cake. Connor loves golf and has his own real set of lefties (only in golf though?) I took pictures of him a couple weeks before and chose two.

Here's how I did it:
The cake is two cake mixes--half chocolate half vanilla. Just mix each mix in separate bowls. Then, if you have a willing hubby, pour both mixes into your pan at the same time, and voila a perfect split. The decorating is the fun part.

I dyed coconut for the "rough," used green frosting for the"fairway," and green sugar for the"green." I poked a straw into the green to make the hole. Then I cut a piece of straw to go back in the hole to make the cup. I used one very small gum ball for the golf ball. The flags are all printed, laminated, and cut out. I glued them to sucker sticks. For the candles, I used four practice balls. My hubby drilled a hole in and I glued each to a tee, using white fimo clay to hold the candle in place. I printed the photos I took of Connor, laminated and cut them out, and selected one to put into place.

As you can see by the by the smile on his face, Connor loved it!

Some Projects, PDF and Patterns

2009-10-28T17:59:00.063-04:00

Here are some of the things that I've been working on.

Sock Sacks

This Sock sack tutorial is from http://terryatkinson.typepad.com/

The original use is for holding yarn and needles while making socks. The small loops on top go around your wrists as you "knit away," but your yarn won't "get away." Sorry I couldn't help it. I made 2 out of 2 fat quarters! Just in reverse. Very quick, very fun.

Thanks Terry.

The big gulp cozy

I have made quite a few coffee cozies, but my daughter S. asked if I could make something to keep cold drinks from sweating as S. does not drink coffee. I came up with something like this only smaller. It's the same concept as a coffee cozy, but has terry on the back. S. then asked if I could make her friend one for a Big Gulp.

I have made a PDF but I can't get Blogger to accept it (hmmmfp)

Well here it is! Thanks for the help Christina!

http://sites.google.com/site/myblogtutorials/home/tutorials

These adorable bags are fat quarter friendly!

This free PDF http://thehappyzombie.com/blog/?p=368

for the Poochie Bag comes from the Happy Zombie.

The pattern is easy to read and easy to make.

Thanks Monica!

Manicure Kit

How about this neat Manicure kit cover as a Holiday gift for a teacher or friend?

go to get a free PDF download!

You can give it empty, or get some manicure items and fill it like I did. Quick, easy and fabulous!

Love the Alexander Henry Apples + Pears fabric.

Here is a Dear Rabbit.

I love Betz's cashmere bunny!
but I needed to changed up the pattern a bit, I added a tail (using the top half of the ear pattern I made a tail pattern. )I sewed everything so it could be given to a new- born, and not worry about things falling off. The bunny is made of soft Minke, the heart is suede, and the eyes and mouth are embroidery floss. I filled it with soft filling.

I got this pattern/Tutorial from http://blog.betzwhite.com/2007/03/cashmere-bunny-tutorial.html
Thank You Betz!

Here is one of my baby toys

You know the crinkle toys?
Well, I re-purposed that bag that is in the cereal box to make my own. I opened it up and wiped it clean and then cut a square 4x4 (same as the fabric squares).Then I cut 9 pieces of coordinating ribbon, folded each in half and pined to the right side of one piece of fabric, and sewed all around to secure. Then, I layered the 2 fabric squares' right sides together (ribbon facing in), pined the bag square to the top, and sewed the four sides--leaving a small hole to turn the project. Next I pressed the fabric, added a very small amount of batting, stitched up the opening and top stitched 2 rows. As a final touch, I added a teething ring.

not my schedule

2009-10-28T07:18:00.005-04:00

Hi

I am still here (sort of)! Since going back to work 3 days a week, my schedule is busier than ever. My in-laws have been ill and don't drive. (I have 2 days a week off now.) Things are changing every day for them. Now mom (in-law) is in a nursing home and dad is dealing with that and also changes in his own health. I'm glad that I can help them out, and they will be first priority!

I have been able to eek out a few hours and make some things, however, no time to photo and post.

I will post pics soon I promise.

Loving the fall colors...not the gray skies though. Fall is my favorite time of year.

2009-10-23T21:25:00.001-04:00

She got it!

2009-08-24T18:48:00.015-04:00

Now that S. has received her gifts, I will post them. She and A. were in need of a table cloth so...we (S. and I) went to Joann fabric and she decided on 4 different fabrics. I decided to make 4 tablecloths...well 2 double sided.They only took 45 min. each! Pretty quick and easy. 36x36. With the left over fab. I made 8 coasters double sided too. The zippered bag of last post was made from the scraps.

Sew Much Fun!

2009-08-21T23:30:00.041-04:00

Today I was pretty productive.
I found some tutorials while surfing on the web.
I 'm trying out this cute boxy pouch:http://threebears.wordpress.com/2007/10/15/little-boxy-pouch%20-tutorial/

Hey pretty cute huh?
Finished size is
4.5L x 3Hx 2 D

...and here's a great zipper pouch

http://orangeflowersketchbook.blogspot.com/2009/08/zippered-pouch-with-reverse-applique.html

This pouch is hand pieced from 4 fabrics. Linen, and 3 coordinating fabrics. The tutorial is pretty easy to read. Mine is pieced and reversed applique but there is no reason it has to be.It's lined and there are no raw edges. Binding is applied on each end.

Grand Opening of Little Peeps

2009-08-21T20:54:00.012-04:00

Now Announcing the Grand Opening of My Etsy Shop

Little Peeps by Suzy D

My shop features one-of-a-kind, handmade infant and toddler clothing and accessories. All items are made with love in a smoke-free home.

(http://littlepeepsbysuzyd.etsy.com)

I'm 1/2 a Century Old !!!!

2009-08-13T14:56:00.014-04:00

I hit the big 5-0 yesterday!

My kids and their spouses are landscaping my new back yard (this weekend) for my B-day! They designed these shirts.The pic is of me, and on my back it says BOSS, on theirs it says CREW. Cute huh??

Thanks, J, J & C and S & A and my Sweet hubby C!

Check out the Post Yard-Work Festivities. Do the Dixons know how to party or what? Gotta love those intense facial expressions!

Still Sewing

2009-08-03T08:41:00.016-04:00

Here are some more infant items that will be on Etsy soon,until then you may contact me at my e-mail address on the right hand side.

click on pictures for a better view

To see more, just click on the right side panel

All bibs (mostly Cotton and reversible) are $8.00

all busy blankets(12x12) are $15.00

Burp cloths (cotton birds eye diaper) are $8.00

Burp cloths (100% cotton flannel) are $8.00

matching Trio sets.(one of each) = $30.00

Baked custard!!

2009-07-29T19:12:00.008-04:00

I came across a microwave cook book yesterday,

that I used often in the early '80's

(before they had the rotating plate.) am I showing my age??

This recipe for baked custard is awesome, quick and quite pretty.

milk,eggs,sugar,salt,and vanilla.,nutmeg

1 1/2 cup milk

1/4 c. sugar

1/8 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla

3 eggs slightly beaten

nutmeg or mace

1. Pour milk into a 2 cup micro -proof measuring cup or bowl.

Microwave at High 2-4 Min, until hot but not boiling.

2. In a separate bowl blend sugar,salt and vanilla into eggs.

3. Stir mixture into milk. .

4. Pour into 4 6-oz custard cups, sprinkle with nutmeg or mace

5. Arrange cups in a circle in the microwave.

6. Microwave at 50% power 6-10 min, rearranging cups every 2 min. until set.

if custard begins to set place on counter.The custard will set more while cooling.

ENJOY!

gratitude

2009-07-15T19:43:00.015-04:00

I was a little down today (still not at work). My sister K. stopped in for a visit and a trip to get pizza. YUM! It was nice:) I'm grateful for her. We walked around the yard and there were so many beautiful things see! Even though it's my yard and I planted much of the stuff--
wild flowers, herbs, squash,and tomatoes-- I feel blessed. God just keeps on giving! Sometimes we get to caught up in the busyness of our lives and forget to be silent and to be grateful. I'm going try harder!

Here are some pictures of the beauty that's around me.

color my world "Gorm"(in Irish) or blue in english

2009-07-05T21:27:00.011-04:00

I feel so bad I got a worried mind

I'm so lonesome all the time

Since I left my baby behind

On Blue Bayou

Saving nickles saving dimes

Working til the sun don't shine

Looking forward to happier times

On Blue Bayou...

Busy blanket

2009-06-28T19:58:00.018-04:00

I'm still home and all I can do is sit and sew.
So... here are a few Busy blankets.
they're kinda fun, but I still like Bibs and shoes!

Bibs glorious bibs

2009-06-22T19:28:00.025-04:00

I've been busy making more bibs, check these out.
I wish I had babies to wear these!
If you have someone who needs baby items e-mail me

suzandixon59(at)gmail(dot)com

here is the mass of stuff I did this week

the one on the left side is the true color--soft grey

the dark chocolate brown on the far left is more true to color....not so blue

sweet coasters

2009-06-21T21:54:00.010-04:00

Since I've been off work I've been sewing like a FOOL!

(wait I already was a fool)so....

I don't know what I was sewing like, but look at these cute coasters!

color my world orange

2009-06-20T16:10:00.008-04:00

Well, orange proved to be quite simple to find.
I love orange. I've been slow putting them on
cuz I can't seem to pull my self away from the
sewing machine!
Ta-dah

home sick

2009-06-17T21:20:00.035-04:00

Well I guess I'll be sewing a lot--at least till next Wed. I hurt my back at work last Friday and can't go to work. Doc says...therapy 3 times a week starting sometime next week. I have 2lb weight limit, plus no twisting, pushing etc... So I came up with a new pattern to make baby bibs! The pink one is all scrap on the front. I made the denim one to go with the denim baby shoes. The bright ones are reversible--both fronts are strip pieced--one with terry, one with Bali and applique. And for the white bib and bootie set, I used dupioni silk. Today I made a patriotic one ,will make more I think.

All bibs and shoes are one of a kind.

For orders please leave a comment and e-mail.

Most of my shoes sell for $15.00 and Bibs for $8.00
The silk set sells for $ 30.00

baby robin

2009-06-16T20:50:00.009-04:00

We are landscaping our back yard, and this little guy landed on our wheel barrel handle .
He was there for 2 days. His mommy kept him fed,and he finally went to the ground on day 3.
Hope the neighborhood cats don't see him as DINNER!

photos by: Suzy d

I Love fabric

2009-06-14T22:06:00.015-04:00

As if I didn't have enough fabric, I went to Joann Fabric and bought more.

I went to get elastic and to try to find some cute buttons for my baby shoes.

I came out with a lot of fat 1/4's of beautiful bright fabric.

Now that I have them all stacked up I don't want to cut them. (Bummer).

I will make myself use it ALL (...mostly) before I go back for more.

coffee cozies

2009-06-14T21:04:00.019-04:00

I have been making a lot of these coffee cozies,
mostly from scrap material. If you sew you know that scraps are STILL FABRIC.
I've had fun piecing the fabric and creating one of a kind pieces of art that can fit in your purse !You will have it with you when you be-bop into your favorite coffee shop.
Say good-bye to those old brown ones.

baby shoes

2009-06-06T16:56:00.029-04:00

OMG!,

These little shoes are so cute and fun to make. The moccasins were my design adaption. My daughter's brother-in-law was pitching a beautiful suede coat.I snatched it up, knowing that something wonderful would come out of it!!
The leather was so easy to sew. The only thing needing lining was the top of the shoe to give me a place to run the elastic. I made some fabric pairs too. I think they are all adorable.

I have another grand baby on the way and lots of co-workers that are having babies.
Can't wait to give them as gifts!

These shoes sell for $15.00 a pair

except for the suede ones which are $20.00.

To order please leave comment and e-mail.

Color my world BLACK

2009-06-05T08:48:00.011-04:00

The color BLACK is everywhere!
Never would have thunk it. Is thunk even a word?
I thought it would be a hard color to find.
Here is the proof that black is in my world.

Ok Sis, color my world orange.

Achooo.......

2009-06-02T16:34:00.014-04:00

Boy I guess I'm moving around a lot of dust.

I had this Kleenex box (just a box) sitting around, and I thought it needed something. Well, since I had a new crafting/sewing space to debut, I decided to use up scraps and to make it a sewing room Kleenex box. I didn't have a pattern, hence the unevenness. But it was fun!

I think that I'll have to do up a real pattern and use them all over the house.

the BIG move

2009-06-02T09:05:00.039-04:00

Wow!
This has been a tough and very long process, but thanks to my sweet husband who is not only handy, but also very supportive, we got done! For some time I've wanted a sunny and accessible craft room. Well, I got it! My old craft crafting/sewing room was upstairs in a small and cramped space. It easily became overrun, even when I tried to keep it clean. Then it clicked-- we had a practically unused computer room on the first floor-- the perfect new space!

my old craft room

the new space: before
UGH !!!!

Note: The before pic.is not the "true" before picture--this is after moving things out and moving things in. We're not that messy!

During ...

After... Ahhhh

the new curtains keep things hidden when I want them hidden

my labeled drawers (no excuses not to put things away)

Room shifting is a rather tedious (and messy) process. Yes, our house looks like a bomb went off (not too excited about that). But it's Tuesday and I'm off work and it's raining, soooo I guess I'll clean.

color my world pink

2009-05-19T17:19:00.007-04:00

Well it's time to reveal my world in pink.

Color my world YELLOW

2009-05-12T18:39:00.012-04:00

Well, the color challenge for this week is Yellow.

I thought this would be more difficult.

( Yellow is not my favorite color.)

I have, however, come to like it much better as I scoured My World for Yellow.

Check it out.

More Junk!! / Less Junk!

2009-05-12T10:30:00.021-04:00

I'm trying to get rid of 50 things bi-weekly!

I started with random things just to get started.

1. XXL Lowe's shirt that has been laying around since my husband went to a home show.

(Don't Need)

2. A crib sheet that I got when my grandson was born 3 1/2 years ago. wrong size, no receipt.

(Don't Need)

3. An empty Band Aid box .(definitely do not need!)

4. Cheese crackers--also my grandson's-- from a bag packed last year for the park. (Gross)

5. A broken toy airplane.(Shh........)

6. An old, empty inhaler. (useless)

7. Empty box of decongestant.(Duh...)

8. Another empty box of you guessed it, decongestant. (hello)

9. A never opened "cheap" yard game.( get real I'm 50!)

I thought I had 10 items in the photo.

Guess my eyes aren't as good as they used to be.

My next 11 things will be from my bathroom/hall closet.

( I can hardly wait!!),UGH.

color my world: green

2009-05-08T21:06:00.017-04:00

Yes,
I challenged S. to a color of the week photo op.!
S. you did it. Now see mine.
Look at those EYES.
What is the new color??

I Caught The BUG!

2009-05-04T18:55:00.012-04:00

(no not H1N1) The Sewing Bug.
I think you may catch it too after seeing these cute fabric buckets! They only take about 1-1/2 hrs and don't use much fabric. I think I'm going to make some larger ones--the design is very adaptable.

Good Tools !

2009-04-28T09:21:00.028-04:00

Good tools make a happy gardener!

I was looking through a gardening book and came across this awesome apron design--I just knew I needed to make one! I love to deadhead my flowers, but hate hauling around a bucket to put the clippings in. With this apron, I have a "bucket" right here on my waist! Boning holds the chute open at the top and Velcro keeps the chute in place. Just un-velcro, dump into a trash can and voila a happy gardener!

Here are photos of my "affordable" apron.I started out with a jean apron from GoodWill. I then took it apart. I kept the top part, but embellished it with pretty fabric. The chute is made from the skirt part of the apron and some of that cute fabric used earlier. I lined the chute with fabric from a laundry bag from the dollar spot at Target.

Total cost: about $ 2.00.

more purses

2009-04-27T20:33:00.029-04:00

Here they are!

I'm Hooked!

2009-04-17T21:56:00.073-04:00

...Thanks to Jessica at How About Orange for her post on 4-14, and Rae at Made By Rae for the FREE buttercup purse pattern!

As you can see, I had an old vest. It wasn't so pretty (as a vest that is!), but as the buttercup purse it's adorable. I used the tie from the back instead of the placket and buttons. Here are the before and after pics. I Can't wait to start another one! I have some cherry fabric I've been wanting to use.

******note******

If you take the pattern and transfer it on to cardboard, you can just trace around the pieces with a marking pen and no more pins!

Click pictures for larger view.

Easter "With" Grandma

2009-04-16T20:05:00.084-04:00

Even though she's been gone for 10 years, I remember all the Easters we shared with her. In preparation for Easter this year, out came her rose china, her beautiful stem ware, and her ever present Sticky Buns! She is my dear Grandma Irene (the kids called her G.G.) Sitting down to brunch I could feel her warm hugs, her always smiling face and the unconditional love she exuded.

Please enjoy a "hug" from my Grandma.
Here is the sticky bun recipe she used.

Caramel-Pecan Rolls

In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups all -purpose flour and 1 pkg. active dry yeast. Heat 1 cup milk,1/3 cup butter, and 1 teaspoon salt just till warm(115-120); stir continuously.

Add to flour mixture; add 2 eggs. Beat at low speed on your mixer for 1/2 min.

Beat 3 min at high speed. Stir in as much of 2 -2 1/2 cups flour as you can mix with a spoon. On a floured surface knead in enough of the remaining all-purpose flour to make a moderately stiff dough that is smooth and elastic (6-8min total). Shape the dough into a ball in a greased bowl; turn once. Cover; let rise in warm place till double (about 1 hr). Punch down; divide in half. Cover; let rest 10 min. Shape and bake as instructed below.

Roll one half into a 12 x8 rectangle. Melt 3 tablespoons butter and brush half on dough. Combine 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon; sprinkle half of sugar mixture over dough. Roll up jelly style, beginning from the longest side. Seal seams.

Cut into 12 pieces, using dental floss; wrap around the roll, cross over keeping the strings close together, and pull in opposite directions.

Repeat with remaining dough. in a small pan combine 2/3 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup butter and 2 tablespoons of light corn syrup; cook and stir till blended. Divide between two 9 x 2 1/2 round baking pans. Sprinkle each pan with 1/4 cup chopped pecans. place rolls in the prepared pans. Cover; let rise till nearly double (about 30 min.). Bake at 375* for 20 -25 min. Invert onto a serving plate. (Makes 24 rolls)

Enjoy!

This recipe comes from the Better Homes and Garden cook book.

purse / tote

2009-04-15T21:23:00.032-04:00

Here is another tote made with a 1/2 yard of two different fabrics (one yard of fabric total). For the piping, I used the contrasting fabric and used piping cording. Working with 1/2 yard sections of fabric allows you plenty of material for the bag and enough left over to make a large pocket, customized to your needs. I used some of the extra fabric to make a tab for the button.

Spring Totes

2009-04-13T15:18:00.041-04:00

I had been looking for a fun spring project when I came across this tote tutorial on Homemade by Jill (a MUST VISIT blog). This simple design is very functional. As you can see, I've borrowed Jill's pattern and modified it a bit. Here are my first two attempts.

For the first bag, I used Orla Keily hand towels from Target (orange, brown, flower pattern) as was suggested by Jill. Perfect size--perfect texture. For the second, I made a trip to the fabric store for a vibrant floral. I lucked out and found a nice complementary polka dot fabric for the inside.

The only thing I felt this design was missing was pockets, so I added a couple to the inside of the second bag. I also tacked in a fob to hold keys (I hate when mine get lost in the bottom of my bag). And since I always enjoy embellishments, I decided to polish off the pieces with decorative tags. I took a cute flower tag from one of the Orla Keily towels and used it to give the chocolate brown bag a designer feel. For the other bag, I folded over a piece of pretty ribbon and fashioned my own tag.

I can't wait to make more totes!

Spring Fever

2009-03-24T19:13:00.023-04:00

With spring here and summer right at its heels, I started thinking of my garden. Last year I had trouble remembering what herb was what, because my plant names were written on Popsicle sticks. I love to plant tomatoes, squash, cucumbers, flowers and herbs, so I decided to make these copper plant stakes. (Copper tooling found in craft stores-- Michaels or Hobby Lobby).

The wind and rain won't destroy them and no more guessing!

Day Three: New York City

2009-03-15T11:14:00.016-04:00

Day Three...

What a whirlwind of activity!

We arrived at Penn Station at 9:00 A.M. and left at 9:30 P.M. In that 12 1/2 hours we visited Central Park, the Guggenheim, The Met, watched a taping of David Letterman and visited his neighborhood--even dropping in to visit Rupert. Then we visited Times Square and finished the evening on the observation deck of The Empire State Bldg. We walked most of the way. WHEW!

Thanks Sis and Ners for the wonderful Vacation!

Click picture for larger view.

2009-03-13T21:20:00.001-04:00

Here is a doodle I did of Penny in the park using

onemotion.com try it!

Day Two: Glenmont Estate

2009-03-09T20:13:00.003-04:00

Today we visited the Thomas Edison home, Glemont Estate, in West Orange, New Jersey.

We also visited the Morristown NHP- Washington's Headquarters Museum again. My daughter works there and she gave us a behind the scenes tour. Here is a tiny book she showed us.

We also made a diner stop...they're all over the place in Jersey.

Day One: Barnegat Bay

2009-03-08T19:14:00.002-04:00

This week we are at my daughter and son in- law's home. On our first day, we went to the Jersey Shore. We've seen such beautiful things!

2009-03-08T18:56:00.001-04:00

This is a pic of penny.

She was looking for just the right cookie recipe to bake for dessert!

Penny's disturbing day.

2009-02-22T20:36:00.001-05:00

I always get a kick out of funny dog pics. Here are 3 of our Yorkie ENJOY!

Hi I'm Penny. Am I cute or what???

Today I get to go to the groomer! I don't know what that is but I bet it will be fun!

I promise, I don't know where it went. I woke up and it was GONE!

I SAID stop looking at me.....

Everybody's TELLING it.

2009-02-20T10:23:00.000-05:00

Twenty five random things about me.

1. I still remember my first childhood phone #(and I'm almost 50)

2. I love dogs. My favorite pet was a toy poodle named Shalimar.

3. My first car was my Grandma and Grandpa's old car. The car was passed down from my sisters, after K . hit the phone pole I got it. (No the giant dent was never fixed!)

4. In high school, I had a early morning music class. Late as usual, I jumped out of my car and locked the door.I heard music playing ...yes it was my radio. I had locked the car still running! I had to tell my teacher and get one of the guys in class to break into it so I could turn the car off.

5. I married my soul mate at the age of 17. Thirty two years later I love him even more!

6. I am a MIMI to 3 year old Connor Joe and I love it.

7. I graduated in May, got married in July and turned 18 in Aug. All the same year.

8. I learned how to use a snow blower this year! (I figured it out all by myself !)

9. My favorite ice cream flavor is Bonnie Doone peppermint chip.

10. Since July 1977, I have lived in 15 different homes and lived in 3 different states, including Indiana, Arkansas, and Kentucky.

11. Most of the rooms in my house are decorated in earth tones.

12. I like to be creative and teach others what I know, so they too can experience the joy of creativity.

13. I went snow shoeing and cross country skiing for the first time all in the same weekend,at the age of 49+, and lived to tell it! I also have pictures to prove it! mostly on my butt, but anyway...

14. I could eat peanut butter and banana or grape jelly sandwiches every day and not get tired of it. I would, however, be the size of a blimp!

15. I just learned about blogging and made my account only a few weeks ago, and I'm hooked!
Thanks Sis!

16. I not only have two wonderful children, but an awesome son- and daughter-in -law too.

17. This past year has been life changing.

18. I could lock myself in my craft room for a year and not get through all the stuff in there!

19. It's hard for me to pass up a good "DEAL".

20. I love to read out loud to my husband and have him read to me.

21. I try to drink at least 100 ounces of water a day.

22. I rarely keep any of the things I make. I like to pass them on.

23. My bed time is 9:00pm.

24. I can't eat lettuce!!!... Think salad shooter!

25. I voted for Obama!

Make it GREEN

2009-02-20T10:16:00.000-05:00

I love creating things from discarded items. I have a few pics of some of my first creations.

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Recycled Sweaters Lap Blanket

When my daughter left for college she also left a bag of wool sweaters! What to do??

Well I decided to felt them all. (To "felt" a wool sweater: Put sweater and a drop of dawn in zippered pillow case. Fill the washing machine with hot water and wash for about 5 min. Lay on a thick towel and roll it up to soak up the water. Put sweater in dryer.) Felting keeps the pieces from raveling when cut.
After all the sweaters were felted, I cut them in 4x4 in squares, randomly sewed them together with wool yarn in a contrasting color, and then backed it with a huge duster sweater that was cut and sewn into a rectangle and hand sewn to the top. I saved the buttons from the sweaters and used them to hold the two together.

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From Tank to Handbag

An old tank top turned into a fun summer handbag. What was great about this was the buttons that went down the back, have become the front side of the purse! Because the shirt was lined, I didn't have to line the purse.The empire waist made it nice. I simply took the tie that went around the rib cage and put it up in the hem line at the top. The shoulder straps became (you guessed it) the purse handles. (This idea was my daughter's. She said she saw it on the bed and thought...hmm that looks like a purse!) Well now it is!

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Hand Towel Heating Pad

From hand towel and a canvas bag (note the handles cut from the bag) to heat pad. I sewed the handles to the ends of the towel, folded it length wise right sides together, then sewed it to make a tube. I then turned it right side out ,added rice and stitched up the end. Just heat in the microwave for about 2 min. for moist heat.

From Wrapskirt to Table Cloth

A wrap skirt from the '90s made a nice tablecloth for this bistro table .

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Salvaged Fabric, Great Reupholstered Chair

Discarded fabric (my husband scored this great find on "move out day" at the college where he is employed) gave this 1970s Herman Miller piece a face lift... I loved the retro fabric and colors which were much better than the sun-faded, ugly red it used to be.

my 6 word memoir

2009-02-20T10:10:00.000-05:00

much confusion; very sad. with JOY!

drawing...

2009-02-17T19:23:00.003-05:00

I went to a neat site called onemotion.

It's a drawing program and it's free! Gotta love that! Try it.This is a quick drawing that I did of my yorkie Penny.

Smile

2009-02-01T14:14:00.004-05:00

Smile!

I took this picture early spring 2006.

He looks so serious doesn't he?

It always makes me smile

photo by Suzan