A Joyful Vision

A Nice Trip

2011-03-08T17:17:00.000-08:00

Just got back from Indiana with the kids. We surprised my mom- so much fun! My dad and Madi knew we were coming, so they helped me surprise her. My dad picked us up and we got home before Mom and Madi were home from church. When they walked in, my mom kind of looked at us funny for a second and then her eyes got wide- she was definitely surprised! The kids enjoyed Indiana so much, even though it was cold. I even got to go out with Madi one night, I really enjoy hanging out with my sister. When we left Odin told me he was sad and wanted to go back to Grandma's. He said Daddy should come to Indiana instead of us coming home. :)

Before I left, I had made some cute ruffle shorts for Ally out of knit material and listed them in the shop. I got tons of orders before and during my trip, so my shop is on hiatus for a few more days until I get caught up with those. It's exciting though, to make clothes that people like- I never thought I'd be this busy! When the baby comes in June I will have to take a break for a few months at least, as I know it would be too difficult to do much sewing. I have a lot of projects I want to work on in the coming weeks- hair things, ties for the boys, etc. Oh and my mom is working on a big girl quilt for Ally and a quilt for the baby was well. Her quilts are amazing! I can't believe Ally will be in a big girl bed so soon, and we are starting to potty train her. So far she has gone twice on the potty, once was today. I hope this continues!

Finally, new spring items!

2011-01-21T09:23:00.000-08:00

I feel like I am always saying I will do something and then I don't. A tutorial, a giveaway...I really want to and then time gets away! I do want to do a giveaway soon, especially since I have so many items in inventory right now and also it would be fun. For now, I have some new items for the shop for spring, and am working on more throughout January and February. I want lots of new items this year- suggestions are welcome! Currently I am trying to decide which line of fabric to use next. Something new, since old lines are always so hard to get my hands on. Anyway, enjoy the new pics. I also made a doll for Ally- now, I am not the crunchy, all-natural type. I'm just not, it's not me. However, these waldorf style dolls are so cute and sooo expensive, I told myself, I can make that. So I did. And it turned out very cute but definitely not professional. Ally loves her, as she does all her "babies", and I made coordinating outfits for her and her doll :).

I am not much of a blogger...

2011-01-04T18:35:00.000-08:00

Obviously. Over two months without a post...sorry! We had a great Christmas with my family, of course and Christmas Eve with Adam's family was crazy/fun as usual. I always enjoy playing games, watching movies, etc. with my siblings. Adam, Madi and I even got to go to Jester'z Saturday night...love Jester'z!! One of the highlights of their visit was that Chet, Dana and Presley were all here and we got family pics taken by my friend Leah of Michele Blake Photography. They turned out great and I am thrilled. Also, we got the house organized/cleaned out and we have 3 big bags ready for Good Will. Both Odin's and Ally's rooms are nice and clean, and we have Odin's closet all organized with a shelf/bin system for their clothes (hard to describe, lol). So everything is set for their transition to sharing a room when the baby comes in June. All we need to do now is find out if it is a boy or girl and I can take out the appropriate clothes...only a few weeks left until the ultrasound!

My shop is back open and ready for customers, and I have new patterns and fabrics to work with. I am also working on making a waldorf-style doll for Ally (google Bamboletta or Petite Poire for an idea of what I want it to look like!). Oh and Madi reorganized my craft cabinet so that will make it tons easier to make things. Also, my mom made a new quilt for Odin's bed and it's amazing- sorry, no pictures yet!

October

2010-10-23T10:54:00.000-07:00

So this might be my ONE October post, lol. Things just get so busy in the fall, and my kids aren't even in school or any activities! We do have our playgroup, but that's year round. We love our playgroup...it has been great spending time and forming friendships with other Christian women while our friends play together. For some reason, I have not found that at church...I love the other young moms at our church, but I haven't really formed close friendships with any of them, and it's been 7 years...seriously, it is harder to make friends as an adult than it was even in high school!

My etsy shop has been very busy...I fully intended to do 3-4 craft shows this fall, but there is just no way. I am so busy with online orders, which is great, that I don't have time to make many extra things for the craft show. I am doing one in a couple weeks and am very excited about it, and have enough inventory from last time in addition to new things. Hope it goes well! The last show I did was a dud. But this one is in a much nicer area, and seems more my style. We'll see!

Ally has been talking a lot. Her latest word is "goggy" which somehow means "cracker." Hmmm. I've also been Christmas shopping...I love doing it little by little, starting in October, so no need to scramble before Christmas! I am actually done shopping for the kids...a train table for Odin as well as some trains (craigslist!) and some disney princess stuff for ally (mostly belle...because she is the best!). I love my kids more and more each day...they're so fun and get along like best friends!

As for my shop, I won't be adding anything new until after the craft show...but I just perfected a new style (after ripping out seams and reworking it 4 or 5 times! Ugh!) but it looks great now and I can't wait to show you! The above picture is this year's Christmas dress, but Ally's will be done in red. The one she is modeling is going to the craft show!

Fall is coming...

2010-09-14T14:55:00.000-07:00

Not that you'd know it here in AZ. It's still around 100 degress F every day, but by this time next month you'll all be wishing you were here. All the way until beginning of May! Fall has never been my favorite season, but I do love it here because the weather gets so nice (again, in October...September is still a summer month). Leaves falling, crisp air, pumpkins, yada yada...not really interested. And fall colors, to me, are somewhat drab! Spring/summer are my favorite season, esp. spring here. This is why my new fall items in my shop aren't that fallish. They can be worn anytime, and that's how I like it. Kimberly Van Sistine photographed a few new items for me, and here's a sneak peak. It's a new pattern that I love, AND it goes up to a size 12! Yay! The fabrics are Meadowsweet 2 by Sandi Henderson...love them. Still bright but kind of seem like fall, too.

Recently we went to the children's museum in Phoenix. Love this place! They've added so many new things since we were there last! Odin's favorite was the noodle forest and the "fiders" (spiders). Went to my brother and sister's baptisms this past weekend...just me and Ally. She did well on the plane and it was an amazing, blessed weekend. I always forget how amazing testimonies are...until I go to them. It was so special to hear Madi and Andre's testimonies and to see them baptized, to know they will be in Heaven with me when they die. Ally had fun with the babysitter and another little girl from my parents' church in West Lafayette. I so wish we could go to Indiana, and the idea of living there is very appealing. I think we will probably stay in Phoenix, but you never know. We are praying for God's direction in where we should be and what we should be doing!

Of course, it's been awhile...again.

2010-08-17T20:43:00.000-07:00

Maybe I am not cut out for this blogging thing. I love to write, but not really about myself. Fiction is my thing, so when people ask if I've ever considered writing magazine articles, I usually say no. I could, though, I'd just RATHER write a story :) So anyway, back from vacation and busy as ever. It was fun but now back to reality and figuring out what Adam is going to do for work...a lot of decisions to make!

Enjoy the pictures from our vacation! Right now I am working on new fall stuff (LOVE the fabrics I just bought!) and a few Christmas things, too. Look for those by September 1, a little later on the Christmas stuff but still in plenty of time for the holidays!

Vacation time :)

2010-07-22T15:26:00.000-07:00

Wow, just noticed I haven't blogged in awhile! Things have been crazy here. Trying to figure out some stuff, hoping Adam will find a permanent work solution soon...so I haven't thought about blogging. I have also been busy with my etsy shop, and finally finished all orders yesterday and shipped the last two today! So I am going on vacation without any outstanding orders...my shop is on vacation mode but I will change it back before we return.

I did a craft show a couple weeks ago and it was fun and I met some great people...but it didn't generate many sales AT ALL. I was disappointed, but will consider doing another one in the fall. I've added a photo of my booth set up. You can also see a new dress :) Well, I'm off to have a fun vacation! Off to Michigna we go...

Sew Cute Creations Giveaway!

2010-06-24T12:56:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love this etsy shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/sewcutecreations. I have been eyeing the above tank dress for awhile, and now she is doing a giveaway here: http://thevillageofmoms.com/2010/06/sew-cute-creations-giveaway.html. The winner will recieve a fully customized t shirt from her shop. And you get to choose! If I win, I will get a shirt for Odin and then most likely buy a personalized tank dress for Ally :) Have fun entering!

Featuring...BedBuggs!

2010-06-15T20:57:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! Today I am featuring a fellow etsy shop called BedBuggs. She sells tutus, hairbows, and my favorite...owl pillows (and butterfly and ladybug ones too!). The owl pillows are so cute, I am hoping to eventually buy one for my kids :)

I asked Krista, owner of BedBuggs, a few questions, and here is what she said:

I am a SAHM of two beautiful kids, and I call them my BedBuggs because every morning they end up in bed with my husband and I. I love creating fun items for them, just to make them smile. The past couple years have been tough on our little family with health problems and my husband's job loss. I'm a fighter so instead of throwing in the towel on my dreams of being a SAHM I decided to start selling my stuff on Etsy. My favorite item to create is definately my Owl Pillows, they make me and my BedBuggs smile no matter what our mood, I'm sure that you'll find something in my shop that will make you smile too!

This is her blog: http://bedbuggs.blogspot.com/ (she also featured me on her blog!) and her etsy shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/bedbuggs

What's your favorite item in her shop?

Love these headbands...

2010-06-10T15:22:00.000-07:00

I have been admiring these headbands by Oh, Sweet Joy on etsy. They are so fun and she is having a giveaway! Here it is:

http://yellowsongbird.blogspot.com/2010/06/impromptu-giveaway.html

My Baby Brother Graduated!

2010-06-09T16:01:00.001-07:00

High school, that is. I still remember when he would walk down the driveway in his diaper to get the newspaper for our dad. And his mullet with those adorable curls. Also, the time he tricked Madi into stepping into a mud puddle (Madi, you still haven't gotten him back! :D). And the time we went mini golfing and he stomped off in a huff because he was losing. Once, in Michigan, we went tubing and dad was driving the boat "too fast" so Andre got off the tube and said he was swimming back to shore. Good times, Andre. We love you and congrats! Enjoy Purdue but come visit us in Arizona.

I made some new clothes for the shop, also. A 4th of July dress that I can still make in time for the holiday, and a cute skirt that matches some of Gymboree's stuff.

Busy Sewing

2010-05-28T17:13:00.000-07:00

Things are slowing way down in my etsy shop, but I have been busy sewing anyway :) I'm working on a few custom orders, and trying to create as much as I can for an upcoming craft show. This will be my first one, so any tips or ideas will be much appreciated! I'm glad I have a handy husband who can help me with the display! In fact, I saw something neat on a blog: http://www.blogmimigreen.com/blog/2008/05/craft-show-good.html. She doesn't sell the same stuff I do, but I liked the thingy made with PVC pipe. I could hang smaller dresses and skirts on something like that, and borrow a rolling hanger from someone to hang some other stuff, as well as placing things on the table. I also plan to make some hair accesories. (for girls and women!)

I am also finally getting some of the professional photos of some clothes I made awhile ago. The little girl is such an adorable model, and the photographer is great! The pictures above are some that she took along with a dress I just made for the craft show. In the meantime, I am praying for more online sales to come my way so I can buy the supplies I need! :D

Aaaand just so everyone knows, right now I am doing a summer special: spend $30 or more in the shop and recieve 15% off. So even if you only spend $30, you still get at least $4.50 off! This does not include shopping.

Pretty Dress

2010-05-19T12:29:00.000-07:00

I recently made a new dress for a customer. It is the double ruffle knot dress, but she chose the fabrics. She chose some from Nicey Jane, which is currently my favorite line! Anyway, it turned out pretty cute.

I am considering doing a craft show pretty soon. I am just nervous about putting so much money/work into it and then not making sales! Especially money...we just don't have a lot, and we are trying to scrape together every penny for our trip this summer. It gives me anxiety to think about it, and I am just so frustrated because we try so hard and it's never enough. Something comes up and suddenly we are overdrafted because we didn't transfer enough money in time! And online banking is a little deceiving because sometimes they do not show the transaction until a day later, but the date is still from the day before. Anyway, if we were like normal people, maybe we would not have to transfer money from savings at all! I'm so tired of this.

Odin is doing really well with potty training, finally! He has been dry all day so far and peeing in the potty, so I'm pretty excited about that! Hopefully it's enough to cheer me up for now.

I'm being lazy

2010-05-10T15:34:00.000-07:00

But laziness is no excuse to not update my blog. The thing is, in every other part of my life I am not being lazy. I'm keeping the house clean (for the most part), writing, sewing, spending time with family...lots of reading, but that doesn't exert much effort. I love to read and am now on a reading kick, which is why I had to force myself to narrow my library holds to 6. I should be getting those this week :) I also have tons of books that are not available at the library that I want to purchase, so I am doing my best to find them used on Amazon. I love Amazon!

Recently Adam and I and the kids all went to dinner with a favorite author, Bryan Davis, and his daughter and another family was there also. It was really neat to be able to ask whatever questions I wanted, discuss my own writing, etc. I don't really know any other writers (I'm talking about people like me, not "famous" ones), so I didn't realize how enjoyable it is to talk about writing with someone who does it...especially someone who is experienced with it. I wish I had a writer friends to correspond with, or at least someone who loves books as much as I do. Bryan Davis wrote the Dragons in Our Midst series, as well as a few others that I love. Christian fantasy is my favorite genre to read AND write, although I read secular fantasy as well, as long as it is "clean." I just don't enjoy reading books with graphic scenes or horrible language...that's just me. The Christian books also have wonderful messages, so I'm saving them on the shelf for my kids. And our bookshelf is overflowing...sigh.

As far as my writing goes, I am seeking out an agent or publisher by querying whomever I can find that represents my type of writing! I am working on the second book in my series, which is loosely titled Brenechia, and I am not opposed to changing the title. If you're wondering, I will only give you the bare bones: it's about a family that escapes to another world because they're being pursue by some bad guys, and in this new world (Brenechia) every believer has powerful gifts. I make it clear that the gifts come from God, and the characters must use their gifts together to fight evil. You might say it's been done before, but I think the characters are unique and the plot is more complicated than it sounds. The main characters are the siblings (two teenagers and two young adults, and the spouse of one of the daughters). So that's all I'm telling the public right now...I am just a little protective of my story :) And it's one I believe in!

As for sewing...my shop is doing fine for now. I don't expect it to ever be a full fledged business, and with my writing, I don't have time for that anyway, but I do enjoy it and really need the money from it right now! I've included a photo of a new top. The kids are doing well, but Ally is still not waking. She's stubborn like her mommy!

Pigtails and the zoo!

2010-04-22T18:12:00.000-07:00

There is something I have been waiting for since I found out we were having a girl. Pigtails! Her hair is finally long enough, and it looks so cute! Besides, her hair looks like a mop when I don't do anything with it, and she tears out her bows and headbands. So, I bought some little elastics from Target (best store ever) and put piggies in her hair. She didn't even mind and hasn't been tempted to play with them! We also went to the zoo recently...we need to get in as many zoo visits as we can until it is way too hot. It's sad that we can't do much outside (besides swim) during the summer months. Odin's favorite part of the zoo was the splash pad- mine too! Walking around in the heat was enough excercise to last me awhile (kidding, mom!)

I recently added a new top to my etsy shop, red with white polka dots- requested by a customer. I will very soon have several new items up that are busy getting photographed. And right now, I am doing a 2 for $25 special on solid color single ruffle pants, any size! Normally they are $15 each.

My baby is one!

2010-04-12T15:18:00.000-07:00

I am finally back from "vacation." My family was here for two weeks and then I spent another week getting things back to normal. I've been really busy lately and am happy to have a normal routine again. Ally turned one on April 5. So crazy to think she is already a year old, and it went even faster than Odin's first year! I love one year old, though, and she is as sweet as ever. So far she has taken 3 steps at a time, but she is going slow at this walking thing :) Odin was 13 months when he walked so I think she will be around the same...she seems to be progressing at the same rate. Oh and we are trying potty training, for real this time. Not really working. I think he might not be ready yet. And it's hard when most days we are out of the house for at least part of the day! I am trying to do underwear at home though.

As far as the shop...getting that back up and running too. Have had a few sales since I reopened, and am getting some new items photographed in the next week or so. So definitely check back soon! Sorry this post isn't more interesting...enjoy the pictures though!

More new clothes...

2010-03-10T11:26:00.000-08:00

I realize I am not good at updating this blog with family news. To be honest, there is not much to tell! Still can't potty train Odin (I don't know if he is ready yet, and also I need to try harder) and Ally is not yet walking. She did, however, finally drink out of a sippy. It was Odin's sippy, one of those cheap take n toss ones, but she loved it! It had a softer spout than most, maybe that's why. We had a playgroup thing today, and of course I forgot my camera, so no pictures :( It was really sweet when I put Ally on a bench swing next to Odin and she immediately grabbed onto him for safety. Love it! I really do think she will be walking soon...she can almost stand by herself, and with Odin that's what happened right before he took a few steps. I can't wait! Also, less than 2 weeks until I see my family. I REALLY am excited for that. I miss my parents and siblings so much, and wish they would just move back already. I hope my brother and his wife and new baby will come down too, but I am not so sure they will. Allison will turn 1 in less than a month. We'll have a party when my parents are here. I am thinking a Paris theme, which means I will be appliqueing an Eiffel tower onto a t shirt for her to wear. I already have the shirt, and an idea. I think I might even post a tutorial for it! I am hoping to get some tutorials going soon :P. But I always forget to take pictures during the creating process. Anyway, enjoy the photos of some new items.

Meadowsweet Skirt

2010-03-02T14:51:00.000-08:00

Odin had the camera :)

Yesterday I had 3 pairs of white pants to make for different customers. So I did that, then decided I wanted to make a skirt for Ally (once I get going, I really don't like to stop). Skirts don't take terribly long to make, so I was able to finish it pretty quickly (with interruptions, of course!) I made it with Sandi Henderson's new Meadowsweet line. The butterflies are so fun, and I love pink and orange! I had gotten a pair of ruffle leggings and a ruffle top at Target, and the skirt matched really well. Ally was a little over-ruffled though! The skirt is available in my shop, and Ally actually was a really good model for me today. I got some nice shots! The kids have really been great about playing outside. I don't know what I'll do when it's summer and it's too hot. We also had to go to the post office today. The line was really long, but both kids were good about it. Odin has been so sweet lately, with lots of "I love you's" and kisses, and I don't really want him to grow up. Gave him a cookie-pie for being a good boy (Oatmeal cream pie). I miss my family- less then 3 weeks until they are here! But don't tell my mom that; she likes to think of it as a month because she has so much to get done in that time. :) The shop is slowing down lately, but I am hoping for a few more sales before I take a much-needed break.

Love these kids!

2010-02-25T15:58:00.000-08:00

Aren't my kids cute? I love how much they love each other! Ally follows Odin everywhere, especially outside. Today she climbed into his car and was very proud of herself. Odin squeezed in with her and made me take her out (he does not like to share). Oh, and potty training is going nowhere. I need to step it up! Below are some pics of custom orders. The pants are in the shop now and the dresses will be soon! I also tried something new today. I wanted to make flower headbands, for me. I made two and the flower on the first one was huge, so I made the second one smaller. I think I'll wear it with a skirt I intend to make soon. Lots of projects as well as orders to fill right now!

Drumroll please...

2010-02-20T15:21:00.000-08:00

Yep, I got some professional photos! A wonderful photographer named Kimberly Van Sistine- http://www.kimberlyvphotography.com/ or http://www.kimberlyvphotography.blogspot.com/- contacted me for a trade. I made outfits for her girls, and in return they modeled them for a nice photo shoot. I decided to go with brand new designs for these outfits, and am slowly rolling them out in my shop. So you will see new stuff with stunning photos in the week or so to come. Here is a sneak peak of some the pictures she took! They are beautiful, and looking at my clothes photographed that way makes me feel like a real professional. I can't get pictures like these on my own! So enjoy, and check the shop for new items!

This is why we live here

2010-02-15T15:14:00.000-08:00

In Arizona, that is. Because my kids can get soaked splashing in the water table. They had a blast, but I did have to chance them before their nap. :) I also added a few new items to the shop..denim ruffle pants and a red and white polka dot skirt. As far as the denim pants go, they are a preview of something fun and exciting to come! You will see in a couple weeks. Now, I'm tired so I am just going to let you enjoy the photos today.

The Paris Top

2010-02-10T14:27:00.000-08:00

Yay! I am finally posting about the Paris top I made for Allison. I LOVE it. It's made from a Japanese fabric (linen/cotton blend) with little eiffel towers and arc de triomphes all over it. It also has some French sayings on it...however, the sayings do not make sense. I lived in France for 4 years and while I was never fluent, I can still read and understand some of it. So on this fabric it says "Paris is 7:00 PM" and "France is love. Thank you life!". So, yeah, unless I am missing something, or translating it wrong...not sure, but I still think it's cute and fun and reminds me of Paris. If you ask my parents, they will tell you I did not enjoy living there. This is mostly truth, but I still have good memories of France.

So, I wish I had taken pics so I can give a little tutorial, and I probably will because I am going to make a similar top in a bigger size for her (this one was smaller than I intended!). Basically, you take two rectangles the length and width that you want for the top, keeping in mind that you will also be adding some straps. Then you sew the side seams of the top together, then add a band of coordinating fabric at the bottom. Shir several rows at the top ( I did about 6 for Ally). Make straps by sewing two strips of fabric right sides together, leaving an opening, then flip them right side out and top stitch. Then sew the straps onto the top so that they are the correct length (I suggest trying the top on your child and measuring before you do this). I also added a gathered pocket.

Wow, those were terrible instructions. I'll do a better explanation with pictures someday. :) Maybe I'm not good at writing tutorials! I don't think I'll put this one in the shop; the fabric is expensive and I like the idea of Ally having a one of a kind outfit. I made the clip, too, using this tutorial: http://www.bluecricketdesign.net/2010/01/craft-3easy-peasy-scrap-fabric.html I also did an appliqued t shirt for a customer, and I think I will start offering these in the shop!

Top Things I Made of 2009

2010-02-06T10:28:00.000-08:00

Odin's Colored Pencil Roll

Apron skirt!

Ally's Christmas Dress

Pillowcase dress matching my cousin's baby

First dress I ever made- I've come a long way!

So I know it's already February, but I thought I'd look back at the things I made in 2009 and post the top favorites. Today is a weird day. Saturday, but Adam's working today. I need to go to Hobby Lobby sometime after he gets home. Kids are playing outside and I'm still in pajamas. Oh well! Oh, and I finished Ally's Paris top and will post about it soon, but she hasn't worn it yet (well, just to try it on) so I haven't taken pics. I tried to make it in 12-18 months, but she is bigger than I thought and it's more of a 6-12 month but it's stretchy and can be worn for awhile, and I made it nice and long as well. It is really, really cute!

Park Day

2010-02-02T14:55:00.000-08:00

Happy Groundhog's Day! Seems like kind of a joke here, as it was 71 and gorgeous outside! Gotta love AZ. We had a park day with my awesome mom's group today. Odin had a blast, and Ally got to play with the other Ali ( a 4 month old baby). Well, attack more than play with. But both kids were good, except Allison wanted soooo badly to go and play with the other kids. She kept crawling off her blanket and looking at them longingly on the playground. Odin enjoyed going up and down the big hill, petting some doggies, and following strangers around. I was happy to be with my friends on a beautiful day, in a small and manageable park (instead of big parks where kids are so easy to lose!). Ally tried out the swing and loved it, and Odin helped push her.

After the playground, we came home and I put on a Joe Scruggs CD for Odin. Now, Joe Scruggs was a children's song guy back in the day (when i was a kid). Oh, how the 80's and early 90's were made better by his songs. Anyway, it brought back many memories. Odin danced along with the first song, then wanted me to turn it off so he could watch TV. I did not do as he requested, so he went and played with cars instead, but Ally sat in my lap and danced. :D She got another top side tooth, so now her teeth look even funnier!

I added a ready to ship skirt to the shop in size 2T. While I do have enough fabric to make one more skirt, this is the only one I have for now. I can't find the Hawaiian fabric online, and the polka dot is no longer at Joann's!

My model quit :P

2010-01-28T12:39:00.000-08:00

Well...she is protesting anyway. I don't know why, but she now hates it when I take her outside for pictures. Tried to pose her on a chair, gave her a lemon to distract her, and yet, she kept trying to grab me. Cried pretty much the whole time. So I brought the operation indoors. She did okay for that, but the lighting wasn't great and my camera isn't either, so not exactly thrilled. Anyway, I got some usable photos but I'm not sure how much longer this can last because I am going to need her for more photos in the future! Oh well.

So I am going to gradually add some simple, fun skirts in my shop. The first is the deer skirt! I also did some pink ruffle capris for Ally with a lace hem; she modeled them, but since I made them in the next size up, they are full length pants in the picture and not capris. Also, if you are reading this, I would love more comments and followers for my blog. It's beginning to look a little sad to see 0 comments on each post! I really do need to start doing some tutorials, too! Maybe I'll do one for the twirly skirts :)

The top/dress

2010-01-27T08:38:00.000-08:00

Things have been slow in the shop lately...only one sale so far this week, but hoping for more! I really want that 50th sale by the end of the week! I also have a goal of 3-4 sales per week, which has been happening up until now. Hopefully things will pick up soon! In the meantime, still orders to catch up on and I finished the Gracie pattern tiered top/dress. I don't know why it's called a top, since it is the same length as the tiered dress. It makes a really cute long top or short dress, though. As far as the actual tiered dress goes (the one with the rounded collar) I plan to make that one with longer tiers from now on because I do thing it's a bit on the short side. Anyway, this dress turned out adorable, and I did a rolled hem, yay! I tried it on Ally but it's a 12-18 months and her shoulders are so narrow and it looked way too big. I'll try it again in a couple months, and make adjustments if needed. I'm keeping this one for her, but it's also available in the shop for custom order.
There's a pair of pink ruffled capris with a lacy hem as well, but I haven't taken pics of them yet! I'm thinking this might be Ally's Easter outfit, unless my mom buys something for her, which she probably will :) Today I am taking the kids to Joann's and Target. Adam is working in Tucson and I can't do another day at home. This week I don't have much going on, and I don't like it...too many long days! Adam has installs every day, which is great, but it gets kinda lonely, even with 2 munchkins. Hope the kids do ok during errands- I always end up going to both places at the same time, since they seem to be located near each other, no matter which part of the valley I am in. Odin keeps getting out of bed early, ugh! But at least he takes a nice long nap...

Giveaway!!!

2010-01-26T21:03:00.000-08:00

Aubut Life blog is hosting a giveaway for my shop! The winner receives a $15 gift card to my shop...here is the link: http://aubutfamily.blogspot.com/2010/01/joyful-vision.html. Go there for instructions on how to enter!

Almost to 50...

2010-01-26T08:35:00.000-08:00

One more sale until 50 in my shop! I am going to give a fun free gift to the 50th customer, wonder who it will be? In between working on orders, I am also creating dresses and outfits for Ally for spring and summer. I want to make sure I get these done since it seems I have been so busy lately! The top/dress (not sure what to call it, as it looks like a dress to me but it's supposed to be a top) that I am working on now is from Sandi Henderson's Gracie pattern and is in Nicey Jane fabrics. I love how it's turning out, and it will also have matching ruffle capris. I will show pictures as soon as it's done.
Sorry there's no pictures in this post- I need to do a better job of taking them! I guess I've been lazy...Also, potty training is not really happening. I still take Odin on the potty, but he won't go, so not sure what to do about that! And I am done giving Ally baby food...from now on she gets tabel food, yay!

Ally's weird teeth

2010-01-23T21:38:00.000-08:00

Yeah, so my daughter took her sweet time getting teeth. And now that she has some, they're a little weird. I'll explain. Her first two teeth were her bottom two middle, which is fine. Then she got one random tooth on the top on the side, and then another one next to it. It's not normal, I say! I took a picture to show you. Also she is waving all the time these days, and she doesn't stop until someone waves back. It is soo cute and I need to take a picture of that, too! I added some new minky pants to the shop, so I'll show off a pair of those as well.

Only 2 more sales to get me to 50! I am pretty sure, or at least hopeful, I can do that by the end of the month. I feel like doing something special for #50, or a giveaway, or something to that effect, but I've been so busy lately! I had a fight with the serger today. I was trying to do a rolled hem, and finally got the thing threaded right, but then one thread kept breaking, so had to rethread that and lower the tension, and yeah I got it, but I definitely need more practice. I will be showing you the results of my efforts (in Nicey Jane fabrics!) quite soon. I started working on a skirt tutorial, then forgot to take pictures, so it will have to wait until I make another skirt! I plan to make Ally a couple spring skirts soon, so it'll happen. In fact, i bought some cute Japanese Paris themed fabric the other day and can't wait to turn it into either a shirred top or a skirt. That project will be just for her, not for the shop, especially since Japanese fabric is expensive (probly cuz it's imported). My mom is making my soon-t0-be niece a quilt featuring some Japanese fabric as well, and I'm sure it will be amazing! Speaking of which, Dana is due in about 2 weeks and I can't wait! Too bad I have no idea when we will see said niece...Anyway, that's all for now.

My new friend..

2010-01-18T14:13:00.000-08:00

I have a new friend for my sewing machine. A serger! I am feeling so blessed and excited right now that someone from church (minister's wife) was generous enough to give me hers. I have been testing it out today, ruining some things with it (oh well!) and I think it's going to be a wonderful addition to my shop. Almost everyone who sews children's clothes has a serger, and I just have not beeing keeping up with the times. So I am thanking God for this blessing. Now I just need to figure out how to do the rolled hem.

Also, I am anticipating a few things here. One is that I have 5 sales left to go until I hit sale 50. So I might do a giveaway of my own here when I do! Two is that I am going to make my own PDF tutorial for the shop. It's funny, I don't know why I didn't think of this before. I made up my own design for the ruffled apron skirt, and so I want to make a tutorial for sale for those who would rather make their own skirt! It'll be available in sizes baby through girls 8, and it'll be easy cuz it's all rectangles, so no pattern pieces to deal with (that's why it's gonna be a tutorial, not a pattern!).

I realize I am terrible at blogging about my kids and taking photos of them. So sorry! I will dig something up now...

Odin was "helping" me sew. Don't worry, I was very careful when he did this. You can also see some fabric in the corner (Heather Bailey Pop Garden) that I am using for an adorable baby outfit for my cousin.

Another giveaway

2010-01-15T13:44:00.001-08:00

The blog, aubut life, has the best giveaways! So here is another one...from the shop SewCute Creations. They are giving away 1 custom t-shirt to one reader. You can find the details here: http://aubutfamily.blogspot.com/2010/01/sew-cute-creations-giveaway.html. Personally, I really want one for Ally's first birthday! A cute cupcake would be fun :) I have admired appliqued shirts like these for awhile. Have fun looking!

Lots of tutorials

2010-01-13T20:44:00.000-08:00

So, since I don't know when I will start doing some tutorials for you all...here is a list of some of my favorites. And yes, I have used things from some of these tutorials for my shop, but most of it has been stuff just for fun. I want to say thank you to all the wonderful bloggers out there who took their time putting these together- Made by Rae being one of my favorite blogs out there for sewing ideas and just to admire her creations. :) So here ya go:
Tiered skirt tutorial- I have a modified version in my shop:http://www.kukyideas.com/journal/2006/07/tiered-skirt-tutorial.html
A ruffled skirt I made for my not-yet-born niece(and have no pictures of): http://grandrevivaldesign.typepad.com/photos/ruffled_skirts_tutorial/index.html
This plus some You Tube videos helped me figure out the pillowcase dress, which I also modified for my shop: http://www.jenleheny.com/pillowcase-dress-instructions
An adorable dress I want to make: http://everythingyourmamamade.com/2008/05/16/adorable-3-in-1-t-shirt-dress-tunic-top-skirt/
A purse I made for myself from Made by Rae: http://madebyrae.blogspot.com/2009/02/free-buttercup-bag-sewing-pattern.html
Itty Bitty baby dress (love it!) also from Made by Rae: http://madebyrae.blogspot.com/2008/04/free-itty-bitty-baby-dress-pattern.html
Fun, simple apron (I have made two of these, and plan to make the aprons from my Seams to Me by Anna Maria Horner next): http://jonag.typepad.com/stop_staring_and_start_se/2008/12/your-christmas-gift-from-mean-apron-in-an-hour.html
Have been wanting to make these, but will probably do some other baby shoes first: http://stardustshoes.blogspot.com/2006/10/cloth-shoe-pattern.html

So that's it for now, enjoy and let me know if you make any of these!

Hairbow giveaway!

2010-01-12T10:11:00.000-08:00

I am not hosting this giveaway, but another blog is...Aubut Life. Here is the link to the giveaway: http://aubutfamily.blogspot.com/2010/01/pinkadoo-bowtique-giveaway-25-gc.html. It's a giveaway from Pinkadoo Bowtique. She sells beautiful hairbows, hairbow holders (which I really need, lol), bracelets for little girls, and more! I am definitely entering. Also, look soon for a review and giveaway from the same blog for one of my products!

Making Children's Clothes...

2010-01-12T09:58:00.000-08:00

...by Emma Hardy. That's the name of the book I bought. I can't wait to try it out- I love everything in it! The only thing I don't like is that most patterns start at age 2, and I am wanting to make a baby gift for my cousin from one of them. I think I will modify the smocked dress pattern for her.

And yes, I know I would soon do a tutorial of some sort. I will, I promise! I will have to make another pair of boys' pants so I can show you, or maybe it'll be a tutorial of something else completely. I don't know! I really enjoy modifying other patterns or tutorials to make my own creation, but I have not yet succeeded in coming up with something completely from scratch. Pants really are easy, though, so that's probably what I'll show you!

I made a new dress and double ruffled pants...both Sandi Henderson's patterns and in the shop. I love how they turned out! I am going to make a couple pairs of capris for the spring for Ally as well as another Gracie pattern dress (different from the one I already made), but with my Nicey Jane fabrics.

Right now, Odin and Ally are playing in Odin's room with the play kitchen. I keep hearing squeals and general sounds of fun...I just love how well they get along. They are like best friends, always wanting to be together. Odin loves to kiss and hug her, and call her "cute" and "beautiful". Of course, he is sweet like that. The other day he said, "You beautiful, Mommy. You a girl." I love that kid! And Ally has been sleeping A LOT lately, which is nice...she is always so happy when she wakes up. Well, today I plan to work on a few orders and work out...I hope the kids take a long nap!

Damask Pants

2010-01-09T22:29:00.001-08:00

I just wanted to show off a new pair of ruffled pants with a beautiful Michael Miller damask print. A customer wanted black and white damask, and they turned out beautifully. They are also the first pair done with my new pattern, and I love how they look! And yeah, I have been making a lot of pants lately, but don't worry, I should be listing a new dress tomorrow (as long as I get the pictures taken!).

Went to Hobby Lobby today with my sister-in-law. I love that store, and bought way more than the 1 yard of pink fabric I went in for. Something I am really excited about is a book with sewing patterns/tutorials for kids' clothes. It is very modern, the clothes are adorable, and I love it! My cousing just had a baby girl, and I think I will be sewing a dress, pants, and booties for her. I'll let you know the name of the book when my brain is working properly.

boy oh boy...

2010-01-07T18:48:00.001-08:00

Nicey Jane fabrics

Boy pants!

I made some boy pants :) And put them in the shop! So boys can have cute clothes too. I also plan to put up a tutorial on how to make them soon. They are just basic, boys' lounge pants. Pretty soon, you will see pants with pockets on them...and ties, too. :D

I am so excited about the new fabric line from Heather Bailey...Nicey Jane. Odd name, in my opinion, but I looove the fabric. I just got some in the mail, and have good plans for it. Unlike most people, I can't wait to cut into new fabric. My goal is to have an end-product that I love, so I don't like to let fabric sit for awhile, uncut. Right now I am working on another knot dress, with Sandi Henderson fabrics. I think my 3 favorite fabric designers are Heather Bailey, Sandi Henderson, and Patty Young. They have the best selection, brightest colors, etc. There are many more that I love as well, but I won't bore you with that!

Gracie dress!

2010-01-04T08:44:00.000-08:00

I am very excited about how my Gracie dress turned out. My mom got me the Gracie pattern by Sandi Henderson for Christmas. Once again, her pattern was easy to follow, and the dress turned out just like the picture! (With different fabrics, of course). I love this style of dress, which would be great for an older girl who can twirl around in it. Allison can't twirl yet, obviously :) I made this one in size 12-18 months, and I was pleased to see it fits Ally loosely. The length is good though, since she is tall. It would be more fitted on a child in the 12-18 month range, but the skirt is still very full! I was having issues with the yoke, when I read this tutorial...http://littlegirlpearl.blogspot.com/2009/04/sandi-hendersons-gracie-different-way.html. I hate bias tape, so it was nice to have another option. Thanks Little Girl Pearl!

Also, I am ending the 2 for $20 special, but you can always get $2 off pants if you buy them with a skirt, dress, or top!

Oh and one more thing...what does everyone think of me adding little boy pants? I found a cute pattern with pockets on the sides for up to 24 months. I would LOVE to have a baby boy to make these for, hehe (just not right now, unless it's someone else's). I wonder if anyone is interested in me adding them to the shop...

Happy New Year!

2010-01-03T17:59:00.000-08:00

Welcome, 2010! Unlike the countless on facebook who seem to think 2009 was just awful, we had a great year. Yeah, financially we aren't exactly doing well, but other than that...we are SO blessed. So I want to take the time to thank God for those many blessings. My children- I gave birth to a beautiful baby girl this year! (My dream come true). My husband, who is always wonderful, my sweet little boy who is growing waaaay too fast and is just as cute as ever. Our healthy, church, friends and family, salvation, and people to lean on when we need it. And the fact that my clothing business is off to a good start. Speaking of which, this week alone I have sold several pairs of ruffled pants, in all kinds of patterns and sizes. Craziness. People love their ruffled pants- and let me tell you, I am loving them too. In fact, I broke down and bought Sandi Henderson's ruffled pants pattern, which means I will be adding capris, double ruffled, and triple ruffled pants to my shop. And tomorrow...I will add my newest dress from the Gracie pattern, and blog about it. So stay tuned! And enjoy the final installment of Christmas pictures!

More Christmas...

2009-12-31T07:41:00.000-08:00

Do you want more Christmas pictures? Here are some from the Ebert Christmas! It was a little crazy, as usual, but the kids really had fun and there weren't too many melt downs.

Peasant dress!

2009-12-29T17:46:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know I am supposed to be writing about and putting up more pictures from Christmas, but right now I want to show you the new dress I just finished. This is a peasant dress, made from fabric I bought in Maui, and I really love how it turned out. However, I fought with my sewing machine for awhile until I could get it to shir correctly. Has anyone out there shirred before? I tried it first with my mother-in-law's machine, and it did not work. I worked at it for a long time before giving up and using my own method of sewing with the elastic and then pulling it so the fabric would gather. Same results but took a lot longer than shirring. With my new machine, I discovered that it can shir! However, the thread kept breaking and getting stuck every 2 seconds and I was getting very frustrated. Finally, I took a break. When I came back to my machine, I adjusted the tension again, and it went smoothly. So a lot of work went into this dress, but it was worth it. I at least know that next time it shouldn't take nearly as long.

Anyway, so here is the dress. I have it in my shop has a 2T ready to ship, but I can definitely make it in any size...I just don't have enough of the same fabric for anything bigger than 12-18 months, and can't find the exact fabric online. Oh, well!

I'm back!

2009-12-27T07:36:00.000-08:00

And although it's not the New Year yet, I am ready to begin my new line of spring clothing. For Christmas, my mom got me some new patterns and fabric...and I am very excited to do something new! I also plan to add more knot dresses, since those are my favorite :). For now, I will show you a series of Christmas pictures from the last week or so...starting with our own Christmas, which we did before we left. The kids didn't get much, but it was fun to see their excitement! Over the next week, I'll show you the rest, including our trip. Thanks for looking! In the meantime, I'll be sewing every day...

Countdown to Christmas...

2009-12-12T09:49:00.001-08:00

So, in the spirit of facebook, here is my current "status" in the countdown to my favorite holiday (besides Easter), Christmas. Most gifts bought, probably shopping today, completed making many gifts, house semi-decorated, Christmas cards ordered (but not sent out), have a custom order to work on and hopefully finish next week, and just sold a ready to ship item today :). Oh and we did our Christmas bake the other day. No pictures, because I of course forgot my family. Maybe if I had a decent camera, I'd remember it more! Another thing is that I should be putting up a few ready to ship pants in the next few days, so someone can buy them in time for me to ship them before I leave. One of them is a pair of red ruffled pants with polka dots in size 6-12 months (above). And they will be on sale as I want to move them quickly!

Also, for your viewing pleasure, our Christmas picture this year. Not ideal, but it turned out pretty good and I am loving Ally's dress (which sounds conceited since I made it, but I do really love it!). Merry Christmas everyone!

A new skirt :)

2009-12-06T22:59:00.001-08:00

I made another apron skirt. I love these skirts, and I especially LOVE this fabric! It is by Patty Young. I made these for two special little girls, and I can't wait for them to get them! I also listed them in the shop, and have sold two already. Things have been busy, which is great, but a part of me keeps getting discouraged and thinking the sales will stop. I hope not- I hope things keep going steadily as they have been, as we can really use the extra income!

I have also enjoyed purchasing some gifts on etsy. So excited about these! A certain ebay commercial says "No one wants handmade for the holidays." I find that rude, insulting...and not true! I love handmade things (like last year's "bacon bowl" from my brother Andre) and I think the people I made or bought them for will love them, too.

Maui :)

2009-12-01T18:37:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful time in Maui! I really enjoyed spending both my birthday and Thanksgiving there. Many of you know that I don't really like Thanksgiving...it's not relaxing, and there's too much cooking involved for food that I don't like that much. So, we ate at a Mexican restaurant. Ha! We also snorkeled (great snorkeling in front of our condo- we saw a few sea turtles, many fish, and a baby octopus). We also did the Road to Hana, swam under waterfalls, and drove to the top of the Haleakala crater (a volcano). A lot of fun stuff and good memories. But I really missed my babies. They were happy to see us when we got back! I also managed to sneak in a trip to the fabric store, so you might see some Hawaiian print dresses in the near future...

Almost vacation...

2009-11-17T18:09:00.000-08:00

Allison in her new bow from Marie D's bows on etsy.

Odin "helping" me bake pumpkin chocolate chip cookies.

Ally in a lovely outfit from her Grandma G.

Wow, I have been busy! I don't actually have anything new for the shop, but I have been making some dresses and pants for customers. It's really wonderful that I've already made several sales, with a few others here and there expressing interest and/or asking for future custom orders. I am very excited about this, and hoping/praying God will continue to show me if this is what I should be doing. If it's not, I am perfectly content! On Saturday we leave for Hawaii, and I am really excited for a break. I am going to miss the kids a lot, though, especially since we have never left them for more than just a night. But they will be in good hands with my parents! Now, I'll attach a few recent photos as well as my new business card design.

Christmas dress

2009-11-10T15:26:00.001-08:00

I made a Christmas dress for Ally, which is also in the shop. It turned out exactly as I envisioned and I got to use some cute Michael Miller Christmas fabric. I also made my first dress sale on etsy, so that was exciting! Another new item is the peasant top, which is also available as a dress. I am wanting to keep everything for Ally, but I need to make some sales, too!

Dresses for sale...

2009-11-03T17:22:00.000-08:00

Well, I decided to do it. A lot of people have asked if I sell the clothes I make...at first I was just doing it for fun, but I enjoy it so much I thought I would try to sell some. "Try" being the operative word here. Sometimes I feel I am taking too much on- MOPS, playgroup, writing, my cards, and now sewing. Not to mention raising two kids, being a wife, spending time with God...you get the picture. So is it too much? Not sure. In fact, I might eventually stop doing the cards (except for friends and family who ask) and just focus on other things. To be honest, designing cards is not going well. I suppose I could put more effort into advertising- but who has time for that? This clothing venture might turn out the same way, and I'm ok with that. If God puts the breaks on it, I'll continue sewing just for fun. And all those clothes in my shop? Stuff for Ally and gifts for friends :). I'll stick to my writing though...that is something I feel I really SHOULD be doing, and maybe the other stuff is just for me. As far as playgroup and MOPS, those are important for my sanity and for my kids to make some friends until they begin school. They always have their cousins, of course, but it's good to make other friends too.

Anyway, thanks for listening to my honesty. This is where I am right now. Life is good, and I have learned recently that I don't need to do everything- not supposed to! I should be focusing on whatever God wants me to do. Now, here are some pics of clothes I am planning to sell- the skirt is a personal favorite and will probably remain in Ally's closet :D.

Fire Station Fun

2009-11-03T17:18:00.000-08:00

A couple weeks ago we toured a local fire station with our playgroup. Odin LOVED it. Being the wimp he is, I thought he'd be scared of the big trucks, but he wanted turn after turn "riding" them. He even got to spray the fire hose! It was a lot of fun, and we didn't have to bring Ally because Adam worked from home that day. Even though she is a delight, it wouldn't have been a fun place to bring her!

Cute bows!

2009-11-02T18:19:00.000-08:00

My friend Natalie pointed me to her friend who makes bows, Marie D. And you know how I love bows on Ally! These are by Marie D, her shop is: http://maried.etsy.com . Her blog is: http://marieds.blogspot.com/ . Happy bow shopping :)

More Cards...

2009-10-27T15:13:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to put more cards in my shop, so customers have a lot to choose from, and therefore I have a few new designs to show you! For now I am going to attach just one...you can see my shop for more. I am also considering starting to sell handmade dresses, etc. Such as the one I recently made for Ally. Not sure if this is a good idea considering how busy I've been- let me know what you think of that!

And coming soon...our day at the firestation, just me and Odin (and our playgroup).

New stuff- cards and a dress!

2009-10-16T13:53:00.000-07:00

So I have been diligently working on my shop lately, finally. I am gearing up for the Christmas season and hoping I get as many sales as last year...Most of them are off-etsy, but it definitely helps! Recently I made an invitation for Chana's reception in Indiana, as well as many new designs for the shop! I'll show you one here. Also, I made a fall dress for Ally! I will be making more of these knot dresses :) I have sooo much sewing to do before Christmas...

Growing Up...

2009-10-10T17:23:00.000-07:00

Allison just had her half birthday. My baby girl is 6 months old! At 6 months, she can...

1. Sit up all wobbly and fall down after a minute or so.

2. Scoot around because she is determined to get something but can't quite crawl.

3. Get on hands and knees.

4. Eat baby food, and like it.

5. Be cute.

Yeah, that last one was because I can't think of anything else. She LOVES her big brother and he likes to make faces at her so she laughs. They are so cute together! We are very blessed with a sweet baby who sleeps 12 hours a night and takes 3 naps a day. But like I said, she is very determined to get what she wants, thankfully she usually wants sleep or food!

Her stats:

15 lbs 4 oz (25%) and 27.5 inches (97%).

A doctor and a ballerina...

2009-10-08T13:18:00.001-07:00

These are going to be Odin and Allie's Halloween costumes. I am NOT a fan of Halloween, it's not a real holiday, and I won't get into the evil associations...however, I do enjoy dressing my kids in fun costumes. I made their costumes because I am not spending a ton of money on something they will wear once, and let's face it, I like to make stuff. So here are the finished products. I also threw in some cute pictures I took of the kids outside today. It has been gorgeous here-75-80 degrees. Now you wish you lived here.

Skirt and Purse..

2009-09-28T21:26:00.001-07:00

My two most recent sewing projects were a purse (as I haven't purchased a new one in years!) and a skirt. I found instructions for the purse on a blog called Made by Rae, and the skirt was from a blog called Amazing Mae. I have found so many free tutorials and patterns through other people's blogs :) I really like the purse, but I wish it had more structure to it. And the skirt took me longer to make than I thought it would...but I plan to make another one! Up next are a skirt and knot dress for Ally, and some other projects. Also, check out my shop for new Christmas card designs coming up!

My brother is married!

2009-09-28T21:15:00.000-07:00

Yay! Chet got married Friday, one day before our anniversary (5 years!). We are so excited for him and Dana. We had a great time in Colorado with my family- Odin still says, "Come on Andre!" or "Come on Madi!" and is talking about his grandparents. :) Here are some pictures from the weekend.

I love to sew!

2009-09-15T14:18:00.000-07:00

And why didn't I learn how to earlier? That class I took in middle school where we had to make pillows does not count. I basically just startes sewing at the beginning of this year, took a hiatus when Ally was born, and got back into it after a trip to Hobby Lobby in Iowa. They have really cute fabrics there, but it's a small selection. We are, thankfully, getting a Hobby Lobby here in Phoenix soon. Mesa and Avondale already have one, but Phoenix would be more convenient and then Janelle and I can take a trip together!

Anyway, I have posted here a few photos...of the fabric I just recieved as well as the pattern I am SO excited about. There are 4 patterns in one, and I am going to start with the knot dress because I've always wanted to make one. The fabric is Timeless Treasures and the pattern is from Sandi Henderson. And I must confess that after opening it up, with its gorgeous photos, I went and ordered some of her fabric on etsy. And I still need to buy some fabric for a few projects for me (yes, me!).

So what have I been working on? A dress for Ally, a few gifts for a nameless friend :D, and a taggie blanket. What's next? A skirt for me, purse for me, Halloween costumes for the kids, skirt for Ally, the knot dress for Ally, with maybe some matching pants...and there will be more! When did this become a sewing blog? I am still working on my writing, and there are a few new designs in my shop, including another one going up today. It's fun, and tiring, being busy. Especially with two kids demanding my attention. At least they take naps!

Today was the first day of women's Bible study. The kids were great for the babysitters, and the study should be amazing! We are doing Beth Moore's study on Esther...I love Beth Moore!

New Creations

2009-09-10T16:10:00.000-07:00

Ally attacking her big brother...but he doesn't mind!

Our family

Yes I know this is gross and I hate messy face baby/kid pictures, but it was her first cereal feeding.

So, probably with this post there should be a picture of the things I've created recently. But I can't, because they are surprises for someone! And if she is reading this blog, I don't want her to SEE what they look like. I really enjoyed creating them, though, and they were partially my own design. As in, I did more than just choose fabric! I got the fabric at Hobby Lobby and I am very disappointed that we don't have one here. But guess what? One is coming in October! Yay!!!! And I think it'll be decently close to my house. Too bad I don't have a lot of money to spend on fabric.

Anyway, I am planning on making more card designs for Christmas, and putting them in my shop soon. I should also be working on getting my book out to some new agents. I really need to get myself an agent, if that's possible. In addition to these things, I am keeping myself busy with a new playgroup, and soon MOPS and Bible study. As well as making sure Odin gets his needed cousin time. He is constantly asking for "BryceAshton?" as if they are one person. So tomorrow we will swim with them. And today we went to JoAnn's with Jen and Gwen (two older girls were at school) and Odin loved seeing Gwennie. "Gwennie come back!" he yelled as I attempted to veer off into the fabric section. I didn't buy fabric, just some elastic and ribbon. Ally laid there stoically during the entire time. Well, that's all for now. Enjoy the random pictures.

sometimes busy, sometimes not!

2009-09-02T10:34:00.000-07:00

So last week was a busy one. We had a lot of plans to keep us busy...including a new playgroup which I hope to hear from soon. This week...I guess I've been busy at home. Working on some writing and sewing and a few new card designs. While it is great to get things done, I'd rather have reasons to get out of the house! My kids, and I, get bored.

Yesterday I was cleaning the bathroom and talking to my mom. I told her how the other night Odin asked if we could go to Target with Daddy (he wasn't going, but Odin saw him getting ready to go somewhere and thought he was). So while I was on the phone, I heard Odin still awake in his room. I told him to go to sleep, and all of a sudden he kept saying, "Target? Target?" Two things I learned here. One, our walls are thin and Odin hears everything. Two, I go to Target waaay too often :)

Indiana and Iowa Pics

2009-08-19T12:28:00.000-07:00

Back from Vacation, and not terribly happy about it..

2009-08-19T12:05:00.001-07:00

So, after 3 whole weeks of vacation (don't worry, Adam did some work while we were out there), we are back in Phoenix. It's a little weird, though, being back after spending every day with family, and I'm not sure I like it. You see, I haven't manage to make a lot of close friends here, people I could just call up and spend time with, or get our kids together. Two of the few people who are actually my age and I COULD do that with, moved away to the midwest (traitors!) and so that's out (miss you, Amber and Natalie!). And of course there's my cousin Britni, who also lives in the midwest, and I didn't even get to see while I was there. Sigh. The hardest part is that my parents and two of my siblings live in Indiana, and though I do get to see them several times a day, I would do anything to have them be a part of my every day life. Those of you who do have your parents in the nearby vicinity, be thankful!

Anyway, you see my dilemma. For me, a great place to live has NOTHING to do with the weather, or whether it's a big city or out in the country. I just believe that our time on earth is better spent with the people we care about. The thing is, I do have family and friends here, but most days are spend at home, alone with the kids or doing errands, also alone with the kids. During the fall and spring I do MOPS and church Bible study, which gets me out a couple days a week, but I really need more than that. So, yeah, it's hard for me because I would just rather be with my family in Indiana than here at home, as comfortable as it is. As long as my husband and kids are with me, too! I am still struggling to figure out just how to have close friendships, even if it's just one person, here in Phoenix, when everyone already seems to have their own friends and activities that keep them busy. I'm sure this sounds like complaining, but really these are just the thoughts that come to be in these lonely post-vacation days. I'll feel better soon :)

So, onto more exciting and uplifting things. Our vacation was awesome! I really enjoyed being with Chet and his fiancee, and with my family, seeing my parents get to be "everyday" grandparents, which I wish they could be all the time, playing games of Carcassone with my siblings, staying up late, relaxing on the lake, and being with the relatives in Iowa. I love, LOVE being with family every day. I am so not the type who enjoys being by myself too often :)

On Vacation :D

2009-08-03T13:01:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd post a mid-vacation update. No pictures for now...but when I get back, get ready! Michigan was fun, beautiful, and perfect...it was really hard to leave. My grandma came up for a few days and I got to know my brother's fiancee. It was nice to be with everyone, on a rare occasion when we are all together. Odin fished with his grandpa and loved it! He also went for a few boat rides and played in the sand. We played games, ate a TON of ice cream from House of Flavors, and tubed and skiied. Oh, and the guys became heroes when they helped rescue a not-so-smart boater who "slipped" off the back of his boat. We kinda wondered what was going on when we saw a boat going in circles on the lake, sans driver.
I cannot express how excited I am to have a sister-in-law who is the same age as me. While I love my sisters-in-law on Adam's side, I think I will have more in common with Dana...she was really easy to talk to/get along with. She and Chet make a good pair :) I can't wait to find out what they are having! Saturday I met Amber, Natalie, and their babies at an outlet mall in Michigan City. Have you ever gone shopping with multiple children? It's a little crazy, to say the least. I'm glad I got to see them, though, and their babies are getting so big! I really wish they both still lived in Phoenix. Amber, I'm counting on seeing you back home in 5 years! Anyway, so now we are in Indiana for the week, Adam will do some work and we will spend time with my family. I also hope to see some extended family! Will update with pics when I'm home!

Summer...

2009-07-22T18:15:00.000-07:00

...is flying by! Madi is here until Saturday, when we leave for Michigan. When she got here, we made our own version of a slip and slide, and Odin had a lot of fun with that. We have been swimming a lot this summer as well, except Odin is afraid. My sweet, good-natured boy is not quite a daredevil. While his male cousins will jump into the pool and turn into fish, he clings, like some sort of water monkey, to whatever adult is handy (usually me). It is nice that he is cautious around water, but how will I ever teach this kid to swim? We can't afford real lessons, so we are going to have to do it ourselves. Today Madi ignoring his crying and held him away from her body so that he could at least try kicking and getting used to not glomming onto one of us. He did okay, and I definitely think it was better for someone else to hold him. We also had Allison in the pool, and she seemed to enjoy it.

Saturday we went down the Salt River, sans kids. Madi...well...she had a few near-death experiences, but we won' t talk about those here :) We also got pelted by soggy marshmallows. Then we went to dinner and Jesterz, which was hilarious. (Jesterz is a comedy improv show here in Phoenix). Well, only a few more days until vacation!!

Backyardigans Birthday

2009-07-13T14:08:00.000-07:00

For Odin's 2nd birthday party, I decided to do a Backyardigans theme because he loves them, and his favorite is Pablo. Most people know I am NOT into characters- I won't buy t-shirts with cartoons on them, or shoes, or anything wearable. However, for a birthday party theme, I am happy to do it because I know how much he loves these guys. He just doesn't have to wear them. We had a lot of fun, all of Adam's family as well as James and Gina and Seth and Brandy were here. I hope someday my parents will be able to attend one of our kids's birthday parties, too! So, we survived despite lots of chaos, kids not wanting to share toys (especially the birthday boy!), me smashing Odin's hand under my chair leg, and some cousins turning the water table into a bath tub. Odin really enjoyed himself, and every time someone came in the door he said, "OOh, present!" He wanted to open presents all night- so next time, I think we will do that first instead of last! His favorite gift so far is the cozy coupe car, which is indoors for the time being; Arizona is too hot this time of year to play outside for long.

Happy 4th!

2009-07-05T17:19:00.001-07:00

Happy 4th of July everyone! Allison is officially 3 months now (how time flies, right?) We had a good time at the fireworks yesterday. First, we did some shopping for Adam because he needed new clothes, then we took nap (yep, all of us!) And then we went down to Tempe. We ate at Jen and Bill's, but didn't eat until late, so we were late to the fireworks. We all walked down to the bus stop (no stroller, so that was kinda hard), got on the bus, and rode to Mill Ave. Then we walked even farther to the fireworks. They started going off as we walked down to the lake, and when we finally sat down, we caught the end of the show. The fireworks were pretty good, though, and Odin really enjoyed them. He and his cousins had a fun time together, late at night, running around on the grass as fireworks exploded over their heads. Oh, and glow sticks were also involved. Getting home was interesting though. It was HOT, and I do not exaggerate, so we dragged our sweaty selves back through the streets, which were still quite lively, including a few people talking about Jesus- which is good, and I hope people listened! Anyway, we were back at the bus stop, and decided to take a different bus because the kids were sooo tired (especially Odin, Ally was remarkably alert and quiet). So we took the bus back, walked back to Jen and Bill's, and had some popsicles. Then we went home.

The kids slept in today and we didn't go to church. I asked Odin this morning if he had fun at the fireworks and he said, "Thank you, bus!" Which I took to mean he was thankful for the two bus rides, moreso than the fireworks :) Ally was a CRANKY girl this morning, and has been soundly sleeping for the last 3.5 hours. I should probably wake her up. Oh, and Odin just came up to me with two (wrapped) lifesavers and said, "Wow, candy!" :D Love these kids.

Odin's Birthday

2009-07-02T17:56:00.000-07:00

Well, here are some pictures from Odin's birthday. It isn't much, since we aren't doing a party until next weekend, but you can see he really enjoyed his new kitchen! It was a bit frustrating because he wouldn't eat his dinner, and Adam didn't want to let him have a cupcake, but he eventually ate some more dinner. And wouldn't you know he barely ate any of his cupcake?

2 Years Ago...

2009-07-01T12:16:00.001-07:00

I became a mother for the first time :) Today is my son's second birthday. It is also my true mother's day. Let us go back in time to when he was born...
It was June 30 when my water broke, and even though it was Saturday, of course Adam was working. My water came out in a gush just after I got out of the shower (good timing, actually!). So, I abandoned my plans to eat a frozen pizza for lunch and got my hospital bag packed. (I'm not the type to do this ahead of time). Adam left his job, tools and all, and took me to the hospital. They gave me pitocin because contractions weren't starting yet. 22 hours, including 5 hours of pushing, Odin Nicholas Ebert was born.
Now, let's talk about my son. Ah, Odin. If you know this boy, you probably love him. Yeah, I know I'm his mom and I AM biased, but he is a special little boy. He is happy, adorable, and very sweet. He gives hugs and kisses freely, and until recently, has never met a stranger. (He is showing a little strange anxiety these days). Some of his favorite things are chicken nuggest, juice, cars, his "shows" (especially Backyardigans), and his cousins Bryce and Ashtis (his name is actually Ashton). He is also really enjoying swimming in the pool this summer, but he clings to me whenever we do. A very cautious child, he is. Oh he also loves baths and going to sleep (I kid you not). But, unless you know him in person, you will never get the full effect of Odin.
Tomorrow, I will post pictures from his birthday :)

Our Family is Growing...

2009-06-27T13:41:00.000-07:00

I want to first say that I really thought I would be the only married one/with kids on my side of the family for awhile. MAddy and Andre are quite a bit younger, and Chet once told me he would probably not get married until he was about 30. Well, Chet can now eat his words :D Actually, I am happy to not be the lone married one at the age of 24, and am looking forward to having more in common with my older brother. For those of you who don't know, he is getting married to Dana (girlfriend of more than a year) in September, and they are expecting a baby. The baby part was, well, quite unexpected, but I am really excited. A new baby is always something to celebrate, and I can't wait to meet my new niece or nephew in February (I think that's when it is).

If you don't know who Dana is, she and Chet met out in California, then she moved to Colorado where her family is and Chet soon moved out there too. We have met her a couple times, once when Adam and I went up to Colorado for a ski trip and they came to hang out with us for a couple days. They skiied with Adam one day (I was pregnant with Ally) then the next afternoon attempted to go home. I say attempted, because there was a huge blizzard and I have no idea when they got back to Denver. Anyway, here is a picture of them!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-06-24T16:59:00.000-07:00

Father's Day and a Cute Bow

2009-06-23T18:51:00.000-07:00

This father's day, I decided to get Adam one of those recordable cards. Well, I was in the father's day section, and there were only two you could record on, and both were kinda lame. So i grabbed the less-lame one, and had Odin say "Love you Daddy" into the card. He did fine (although it sounded more like "Love Daddy!") but when Adam opened it...I realized it said Happy Birthday! Oh, well :) Odin helped me make breakfast for dinner, and then we stayed home and watched a movie. It was actually Saturday, since we don't have as much time to do these things on Sunday. Sunday we went swimming and had dinner at Adam's parents' house.

I also bought two adorable headbands on etsy. I NEVER thought I would be a headband person, but they are so cute and I can't resist. I included a pic of Ally sporting one.

She naps! :D

2009-06-19T18:02:00.000-07:00

...Not that Ally didn't nap before, but it was usually in her swing and in short spurts. I tried letting her cry in the crib, and she would only nap for 30-45 mins at a time! Yikes! I always told myself I was blessed (and I am) because she sleeps great at night. But, a few days ago, she went to sleep right away at naptime, in her crib, and slept for a couple hours! She took a 3 hour nap yesterday and a 2 hour nap today while Odin was sleeping...she also takes two other one hour naps. It's great, and really helps my sanity on days like this when Adam is working late.

Speaking of days like this, I really need to find more things to do. I am not the type that enjoys hanging around at home all day, but we don't have money to spend and unfortunately, it costs money to do a lot of things. It's too hot to go to the park and I don't have many friends to do playdates with, so I'm not really sure WHAT to do.

Today while I was feeding Allison her bottle, Odin hit his head and came over to me crying. Well, Ally pulls away from her bottle, looks me in the eyes, sticks her bottom lip out, and begins crying as well. It was SO cute, like she felt bad for Odin and wanted to cry with him. I love it!

More pictures...

2009-06-13T21:34:00.003-07:00

Another post in the same day, because I have more pictures to share...

Allison cashed out while we were swimming :D

Me and Odin in the pool- he didn't want to get out, and his lips were getting purple!

Cute faces and I love this hat!

hehe

Our version of a water slide...

He hated this last year...I have pics from a blog post about his birthday.

So sweet!

Cute smile!

I love this boy and he is looking so grown up!

And, 2 months later...

2009-06-13T20:42:00.000-07:00

Wow, I really am terrible at this blogging thing. You would think, since I love to write, that this would be easy, but it's not. See, I love writing fiction- creating stories about people that I create and, consequently, almost believe are real. I can make up people, places, and there are no rules to it (except for doing my best to be grammatically correct.) On a blog, I have to write about my real life, and since it's not very interesting (enjoyable, but not so interesting), I struggle to think of what to say. I'm not even positive anyone's reading it- except for the one follower I have (thanks, Amber, if you're still reading!).

I suppose I should update you on our lives since the addition of our wonderful baby girl. (Although I'm sure what everyone really wants are pictures!). Have I ever mentioned how I had horrible baby blues with my son? For his first two months, I was kind of depressed, felt weird, and cried a lot. I wasn't used to having a baby and didn't feel bonded to him. But then, when he was 2 months old, I fell in love and life was better than I ever could have imagined...as cliche as that sounds. When I had Allison, I expected the same...I was already imagining her life at 2 months plus. Thankfully, I only had baby blues for about a week, and it wasn't that bad. For anyone who wonders, transitioning two kids is actually a lot easier than one. I've done it before and it's not as much an interruption as before.

So here we are at the anticipated 2 months old. And...it's anticlimactic. I love my baby girl and she is such a good baby, but since I never had those sad feelings with her, life just feels the same. Normal, good, and better than before :) Also, I LOVE having a girl. All the dresses and headbands and bows....and the PINK clothing. Love it. Can't wait until her feet are big enough for shoes. Ally sleeps 8-9 hours straight at night, eats, goes back to sleeps for 3-4 more hours. It's amazing and I don't need to nap which is nice since her naps are completely irregular. Oh well, we have time to work on that. She is now almost 11 lbs and 24 inches long...95% for height! Another tall baby :) We have been enjoying summer, taking Odin swimming and playing in his sprinkler pool (now just a wading pool since there's a hole causing the sprinklers to barely work). Recently we even traveled to Illinois for Adam's aunt's funeral. The kids were amazing the whole drive (yes, I said drive...we love road trips!). Allison can hold her head up with minimal bobbling, and she is soon to be outgrowing her 0-3 month clothing! Can't wait to put her in that dress I made for her!

Adam still has enough work to get us by, even though it's slowing down and money is tight...but we are okay. As for me, I haven't gotten an agent for my book yet, so I will send out some more queries as well as work on another novel (very different from the first, which I will eventually write a sequel to). I am also hoping to do some scrapbooking soon and add new cards to my shop. A lot to do, but I don't worry if I get it done. As long as I am doing the important things- spending time with Adam, taking care of the kids....and I do promise to blog more often!

We have a baby girl!

2009-04-06T20:20:00.000-07:00

Baby Allison was born April 5, 2006 at 11:50am. She weighed 6 lbs 15 oz and 20 inches long. She has lots of light brown hair!

Long version:

We went in for an induction at 5am on Sunday. I could come up with a reason for it, but really I was just tired and ready for her to come out. My Dr. said she would induce me b/c it's my second baby and I was already dilated and effaced. So they started the pitocin at 5:30 and checked me, I was 3cm at the time. I thought, great, that is 1 more cm then I was at my last appt, so at least that's progress. I was expecting about an 11 hour labor, half the length of my labor with Odin.

The contractions were tolerable at first, and then got more intense around 8:30. I was checked again, 3-4cm this time so not much more than the first time. The nurses had a hard time monitoring my contractions- they wouldn't show up on the monitor! At 9am I asked for an epi b/c let's face it...with pitocin, it's pretty painful. The epi was great!!! I could still feel my legs and move them around, but no pain! At this point I was wondering where my doctor was, since she was going to break my water. Well, I had already leaked something and had my bloody show, but the nurse didn't think my water had ruptured yet.

At 10:15 I got the catheter in, and the nurse checked me, said I was 6-7cm already! I was pretty surprised by that, as was Adam, since with Odin things took forever. I was thrilled the induction was going so well! My water broke on its own at that time as well.

Finally Dr. Charles showed up, and checked me just to confirm..."Oh she is more like 8-9," she said. I was very shocked at that...I don't know how it happened so fast, but she said second babies are like that. We started watching Twilight- and made our guesses. I still thought it would be another few hours, so I guessed 2pm, 7 lbs 8 oz, 20 inches with brown hair. Adam guessed 12:30pm, 7 lbs 10 oz, 19.5 inches, blonde hair (just to spite me, I think).

I got some ozygen as a precaution, and the nurse checked me again- I was 10 cm! This was not much later, maybe around 11?? We waited for the baby to descend (that's what took so long with Odin). At 11:30, the nurse said she was right there, had me push but said I wasn't quite ready. I started to feel some pain with contractions, which turned out to be b/c the baby was ready to come out! At 11:45, I pushed for 6 minutes and she was out! Dr. Charles didn't have to give me an epesiotomy, but I did tear a little bit. I honestly didn't feel like I had had a baby! The doctor chatted with me a bit, and said I was a very low-maintenance delivery. So it took 6.5 hours to have my little girl, Allison Cay. Her initials are ACE.

She is a good baby so far, sleeps a lot and was eating well at first but now isn't interested, probably b/c my milk isn't in yet. We are supplementing with formula for now, but hoping things go well with nursing soon. I feel pretty good, and we came home tonight b/c I decided I didn't need that extra night at the hospital after all- since my sleep got interrupted by the nurses way too often!

Odin wanted to hold and kiss his sister at first, until she cried, then he started crying and right now pretty much ignores her. He didn't mind when we brought her home, though, and is VERY happy to have me and Adam back!

Still Pregnant

2009-03-28T11:11:00.000-07:00

I am nearly 39 weeks now, and I still haven't had the baby. That's normal, I know, but I really want to have her soon!
My family was here this past week, and it went by way too fast. My mom will be here until April 15, so I am hoping that I have the baby by April 2. I guess all we can do now is wait...

Big Boy Bed!

2009-03-06T14:45:00.000-08:00

Well, Odin has been in a big boy bed since Monday night. We have had this daybed/trundle in his room, and used it for guests, but now it is his :) He loves it and sleeps great in it! We turned it around so the railing is on the outside. Now we can move the crib, after we finish painting the baby's room. The first picture is Odin's last night in his crib. Also, here is a picture of the dress I made yesterday for the baby! It has a lot of flaws, but I still think it's cute :)

It's March!

2009-03-04T15:04:00.000-08:00

I officially have 33 days left...if I go to 40 weeks (i didnt with Odin).

We have not started painting the baby's room but we plan to this Saturday!

I have been working on some sewing projects :)

I submitted my novel to a few agents, going to submit to more this week and next.

I'm excited for a big consignment sale for children's stuff on Friday!

Got a pedicure yesterday, haven't had one since summer ( i usually only get one or two a year anyway).

Let's see what pictures I have for you...

Here is what I mean by sewing project (taggie blanket and burp cloths)

and a new card :)

New Layout!

2009-02-11T11:54:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone! :) Do you like my new layout? I got it from thecutestblogontheblock.com. I would love to design my own but I have no idea how to upload my own design- if anyone can help me with that, I'd be grateful! I have made several new handmade cards this week- I just love working with paper and glue! Look for them soon, I plan to take pictures and list them on etsy in the next week or so. I have also begun learning how to sew, which if you know my mom SHOULD be in my blood, but it's not. Thankfully, I'm starting with small things and enjoying it!

As far as daily life goes...I went to the Mad Scrapper with Odin yesterday. Big mistake! I was the only customer, thankfully, but he was running around, pulling things off the shelf. I have been waiting to buy baby girl scrapbook stuff forever, and I didn't get to enjoy the experience too much :( Even snacks didn't distract him- he kept going over to where they have candy for sale and bringing it to me to open (yeah, right). The lady working there was very nice though, but I know I didn't get everything I wanted so I may have to go back without him! We are busy busy in the coming month (s) with all kinds of things...planning a friend's baby shower, various social engagements, a garage sale, getting things ready for this baby (we have not even come close to starting on her room and there are only 8 weeks left!), etc. I love being busy though, so I don't mind!

Here is me 7 months pregnant with Odin looking for his baby sister :)

Brand new invitation!

2009-01-30T12:21:00.000-08:00

I have created a new birthday party invitation today, and am quite pleased with it! It's for a girl, but I used a picture of Odin because I don't have any girls to use as models (not until April, anyway!) and also I love this picture :) I can also do this in boy colors, or any colors really. Next I am planning to create a few new banner designs, including one for myself since I have had this banner for awhile and am ready for a change!

Cousins are fun!

2009-01-30T12:09:00.000-08:00

Odin has a blast playing with his cousins! I was watching Janelle's boys so she could go to a doctor's appointment, but she was only gone for about an hour so it wasn't much babysitting! It's fun watching these boys together...Odin loves sharing his snacks and whenever we go over there, he points to the backyard and says "car" so he can ride on the green truck. Boys are so much fun! Oh, and Odin also got a haircut- thanks Janelle! I've added a few other pictures just for fun...I'm annoyed because when I upload pictures on here they get posted out of order. Oh well, you can figure it out!

Not happy with that law...

2009-01-24T15:38:00.000-08:00

Aren't my boys cute?? Odin likes to bug his daddy when he falls asleep on the floor :) Anyway, the real reason for this post is to lament about the new law I mentioned earlier- i guess its called CPSIA or something, not sure what it stands for. It makes me sad, though, that so many great sellers on etsy are closing their doors, or emptying their shops of baby items. We have until February 10 to continue purchasing these items (and i love unique, handmade baby stuff!) so I encourage everyone to buy from them now, and to contact those in authority and tell them how you feel! It's ridiculously expensive to test for lead, and to me it is dumb b/c these items are made from materials in the USA that have already been tested, or should have been. Please check out http://jessicaleman.etsy.com/- she is having an awesome sale on baby stuff, and her things are great! I have several of her items from when Odin was a baby, but since we are having a girl this time, I want to purchase handmade items for her, too, which is another thing that makes me sad!

Our Backyard

2009-01-14T16:36:00.000-08:00

So, I kinda wish I had taken some pictures of the yard before, so you can see all the weeds, but if you look back through my posts you will see some of odin playing out there after Christmas. Anyway, here are some pictures of the much-improved little backyard of our home. We absolutely love it and are so grateful to my parents for providing it for us. We've been out there every day since, and Odin has a great time playing (but he doesn't like to go outside without me!). For anyone wondering- yes we have grass in Arizona, but this makes it so much easier, because their is no maintenance! You don't have to mow fake grass :). Also, here is a picture of the chair I am planning to recover- the dark green isn't so bad, really, but it's corduroy fabric and really not my taste. It is a very comfortable chair though!

A random photo

2009-01-12T17:56:00.000-08:00

I saw this on another blog- she had gone to her May picture folder (randomly) and then selected picture 21, urging others to do the same. This is what I found! I can't believe it...it's Odin with a paci (gasp!) We haven't seen one of those in our house for 3-4 months now. I don't think he would know what to do with one now. The picture is Odin and Bryce (cousin) playing with the cabinets at Grandma Ebert's house. Odin had just started cruising, I think. These boys are pretty funny together- they get very noisy and egg each other on. On time they both started yelling "Dada!" in church very loud, and laughing, and their dads had to take them out to the foyer, where we could still hear them, so they had to be separated. Funny boys. Bryce is 5 months older but Odin is bigger- yeah, our kids will be the giants on Adam's side of the family. I will post pictures of our (fake) lawn tomorrow, I hope!

Update...

2009-01-10T09:28:00.000-08:00

I just got some information that this new law should not affect sellers of used toys/clothes. So, garage sales are still ok! Yay! I guess they aren't required to test the used items (presumably b/c they already should have been tested), but should avoid anything hazardous or that contains too much lead. This is good and means I don't have to rush out and buy a bunch of baby clothes at Kid to Kid yet!
I'm still unsure how it affects people who make homemade items, but I guess we will find out. Anyway, I was going to post some pictures of our new lawn- it looks awesome!- but I think Adam took the camera today. Yesterday we got a fake lawn put in, thanks to my dad, and it really looks real. No mowing or watering or reseeding required! And it's a small space, so this really makes it look bigger and nicer out there. Our yard now has a nice patio and lawn, and Odin had a blast playing on it yesterday. I also cleaned off the table out there, so maybe we will actually start to eat outside, or have people over or something. We still need to replace the cover on our awning over the patio, and should be doing that sometime soon. Another project is possibly retiling the shower and getting a new tub in the second bathroom (it would be more difficult to do our bathroom, so we want to start there). My talented hubby would be doing the tile work. I will post the lawn pictures tomorrow, as well as pictures of our new (used) glider/ottoman that I plan to recover and we bought for only $20 (it will be a work in progress...).

Annoying New Law

2009-01-07T13:23:00.000-08:00

And not only annoying, but possibly very upsetting to some. Most people have not heard of this, likely because the government doesn't want to hear any opposition, but it makes me mad. On February 10, people will no longer be able to sell used children's items unless they have been government lab tested for lead. Now, I am all for lead-free toys, but let's consider a few points. One, this testing is very expensive and in many cases these toys have already been tested-before they were originally sold (am i wrong here?). From what I have read, nothing addresses safe toys that have been tested before hitting the store shelves- recalled items, those should of course be thrown out.

My second point is this: Do baby clothes have lead in them? I'm pretty sure fabric is lead-free, so why do those need to be tested?

Third point: Crafty people who sew/make items for babies out of fabric. That fabric, I am guessing, was tested (or not, since we already concluded that fabric is lead-free, i think) before someone bought it and made it into an item for a child. I am pretty sure most of us do not have time to make/dye our own fabric from scratch.

Anyway, the biggest problem with this law is how many small business it will destroy. Lots of people handmake baby items to sell! And what about listing things on craigslist or ebay, or having a good old-fashioned garage sale? I guess we need to fill up the landfills with more junk, even if it is useful. I, for one, enjoy buying things used rather than wasting my money. Bottom line is, this law will hurt the economy further. It's a dumb law and I don't like it. I am buying as many used baby items as I can before it's too late and I have to go brand-new all the time.

Here is a link for more information, since this blog only holds my opinion:

http://kidsproducts.suite101.com/article.cfm/new_law_effecting_sale_of_childrens_products

Yay Christmas!

2008-12-27T10:08:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Christmas this year! It was great spending the whole day with my family, opening stockings, going to church, opening gifts, eating deep fried turkey, and playing games. Stevo won Apples to Apples and Mom won Monopoly. She claims she never wins that game...

We are very blessed, and our family has been so generous this year- I was also excited to see everyone open the gifts we got them (one of my favorite parts). My dad says Andre and I are the most excited about giving gifts in this family. From my parents, Odin got an outdoor climbing playcenter, and sadly it rained on Christmas so he couldn't play with it until the next day. But he loved it! Can't wait to put down some astro turf or fake grass, instead of those weeds! Odin loved all his gifts, but was especially sad when his daddy wouldn't open up the package for his polar bear fast enough! One of my favorite things, and a big surprise, was that my mom made a quilt for the baby, and Maddy made cloth blocks, all in awesome fabrics! I don't think I could have picked better fabrics myself :) I will take pictures of those later, as the quilt isn't quite finished! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone!

Odin and the Christmas tree

2008-12-17T21:30:00.001-08:00

After we put our tree up (about a week and a half ago), I decided to document Odin's reaction. He likes the ornaments and lights, but listened to us (gasp!) when we told him not to touch. We still have to remind him, but he is being very good about ignoring the tree. The next day I wrapped presents for the Ebert Christmas (which was on Saturday) and he was getting into all my wrapping paper, bows, etc...but once the gifts were wrapped and under the tree, he ignored them. Yay! It was kind of strange having Christmas so early, and not on Christmas Eve. Odin got some fun things, including a zoo membership! And some of my favorite gifts were girly scrapbooking stuff (ive been waiting for this!) and a pedicure gift certificate.

Adam and I discussed what we want to do for our kids in the future for Christmas. Since Odin is still young, and we don't have money, we are doing a stocking and one gift. Eventually we plan to buy 3 gifts per child, to echo the 3 gifts given by the wise men to Jesus. I am trying to think of other ways to focus on Jesus as well, in all the different aspects of celebrating Christmas. I, however, don't like the idea of birthday cake for Jesus- I mean, who really likes birthday cake? But, I do like the idea of unwrapping baby Jesus as the first gift. We also do caroling with church, the Christmas program, reading the story of Jesus on Christmas morning...among other things. Anyway, so now half our Christmas is over, and sadly I forgot the camera and took zero pictures. Waiting for my mother in law to start emailing some out! :)

A few new...old...designs :)

2008-11-24T09:14:00.000-08:00

Here are some of my Christmas/holiday card designs that I actually made last year. One was for our own card, the other was for Adam's parents' card. They are both two of my favorites. Remember, Christmas is coming very soon, and you need to get those cards ordered! Enjoy. :)

It's a....

2008-11-12T13:04:00.000-08:00

girl girl girl!!!!!!!! Well, just one girl, but I'm so excited I had to say it 3 times. Wow. I am in awe. If this is the only girl I ever have, I'll be totally happy with that. I love having a boy too, and to have one of each is such a blessing. I cannot believe I am so blessed! So here's how today's ultrasound went.

I was at the park with friends and kids beforehand, then went to meet Adam at the doctor's office. The place was empty, so we got in right away (this is not normal). The tech was really nice and talkative, and got started right away. She showed/explained every little detail, which was neat. One of my favorite parts is seeing the four chambers of the heart and watching it beat. I thought her profile was cute and she reminds me a little of Odin but with a smaller head (compared to his ultrasound). The tech made us wait until the very end to show us the gender. Odin was kinda scared, kept whining and reaching for me while Adam held him. The tech gave him an ultrasound picture to look at, to keep him occupied. The baby weighs 0.61 lbs and had a hearrate of 133. Everything looked healthy, another blessing!

Finally, she moved the wand around to the between the leg shot. Well, it was VERY different from Odin's. I could plainly see nothing between the legs, and then said "it looks like a girl" and i started crying and asked her if she was sure. She showed us again and also showed us the three lines that indicate girl parts. Yay! I was very excited after this and was able to converse, as my nervousness went away. Adam and I are both so thrilled to add a little baby girl to our family. I am also excited for my nieces who don't have any girl cousins yet! I can't wait to buy some girl clothes, too, and do all the things that come with having a daughter. I also am so excited to see what she looks like! Here are some photos. Most are fuzzy, b/c i took pictures of them with a digital camera. I also added a belly pic so you can see how big I am already!

Our Vacation

2008-11-01T17:26:00.001-07:00

We had a great time in Indiana! We only got to be there for five days, but it was a lot of fun. Odin was okay on the plane- one the way there he slept for a while, on the way back he was all over the place, but at least we had a row to ourselves. I got to go shopping for my birthday, and we also got some new clothes for Odin. Too bad we can't wear them until the temperature here gets cooler!

Shivering after his bath

First Haircut!

Celebrating Stevo and Adam's birthdays

Odin in Bizou's Cage

Saying goodbye at the airport

Another Christmas card!

2008-10-31T13:49:00.000-07:00

Here is my newest Christmas card design, also on my etsy shop! I will be doing another blog soon about our trip to indiana and the zoo.

Quick Post

2008-10-29T16:18:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to post real quick to say I am still around, just got back from Indiana. I will post pictures from our trip real soon, as well as a new Christmas card. I have to say I am not too thrilled to be back, especially with this HOT weather, but I will be back to posting soon!

Snack Time

2008-10-08T16:39:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was an unsually busy day for us. Bible study, and impromptu lunch with all my sisters-in-law at the in-law's house, and then to a friend's house and swimming. (Yes, it is still warm enough to swim here!). I found myself thankful that I took a shower in the morning instead of waiting until after Bible study, because I didn't get home until after 6. It was fun, though, and Odin had a blast playing with multiple kids.

That is one thing I often feel guilty about. Odin doesn't get to play with kids very often. I don't have friends that have kids to do play dates with, and the ones I do have I never seem to spend time with. Other than his cousins, Odin doesn't get much opportunity to socialize! I'm not really sure how to remedy this situation, since a lot of moms I know are pretty content with their social circles or too busy, or I just haven't clicked with anyone yet. Not sure. Anyway, today was a normal day spent at home. No errands to run, and I don't relish the idea of hitting the park alone with a toddler. Both of us (well, me mostly) would get bored rather quickly!

So, I took some pictures of Odin eating a very casual snack. Crackers and goldfish off my desk! There are some other pictures here as well, from the past few weeks. Enjoy!

In other news, our washing machine broke after we paid $200 to get it fixed. Nice.

Christmas cards!

2008-10-01T16:22:00.000-07:00

So, yes, I know that here in Arizona it is still in the 100's. Not really a high time to be thinking about Christmas, is it? Well, it is already October, and I know a lot of us like to prepare early! Especially when it comes to those fun Christmas greetings. So gather up the kids, arrange them in unnatural positions, take a million photos, and send them to me!

I have added my first Christmas design of the season on my etsy shop. I am going to put the photo of it here as well, so you can see how pretty it is. :) I am really loving this one, and might use something similar myself once we take a photo. My adorable son Odin is the model, since he loves the camera (seriously, he stops what he is doing and smiles when it's pointed at him).

I sell either design only, so that you can print it yourself. Even though you have to buy envelops separately, this can be a really good deal. Costco and Sam's Club can print the design pretty cheap. However, I can also get them printed at this awesome professional printer, and charge you per card (comes with envelope). The designs in my etsy shop are available for purchase, but they are also just examples of what I can do. I love making custom designs for my customers! Just email me with what you want, and we can work from there. Yes, it is a little more costly than shutterfly or some of those other places where you can get photo greetings for the holidays, but they are custom designs and great quality. I can add as many photos as you want, edit photos, and if you buy cards printed on cardstock, put a message on the back.

Please check out my shop, and let me know if you are interested!

wednesday

2008-09-17T10:43:00.000-07:00

Okay, so no real topic for today's blog! not much going on here, but i am starting to feel better. i have been working on my book a lot, and am more than halfway done! yay!

if you left me a message to be included in the email list, i didnt get your email address...so you can just send me an email here: ajoyfulvision at gmail dot com. that is my official business email address :)

i plan to get an email out by the end of the month to everyone with updates and information on Christmas cards, so please bear with me as I attempt to get some new designs finished!

Here she (or he) is!

2008-09-05T13:56:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was our first ultrasound. Even though you cannot see much at this point, I was still very excited. With Odin, we only got the one ultrasound at 20 weeks. I'm not sure why they scheduled me one early this time, but I'm not complaining! We keep calling it a she, even though of course we don't know yet, but it feels like a she...and, well, we'd like it to be a girl :). So, right now it looks like a kidney bean, and is about the size of one! She moved a little for us, and we saw the flickering heartbeat. Her heartrate was at the top of the range for this stage of pregnancy, so she is doing well! They also found a cyst, which looks like a sac with no baby in it...but she said that's normal and should go away during the pregnancy.

Also, today was our first day back at MOPS! I realized today that Odin just isn't a baby anymore. He is walking, and still I put him in the baby room because I was worried that toddlers would bowl him over. Well, when I went to get him he wasn't too happy...I think next time he will be with toddlers where there are toys. He loves playing with his older cousins, so I think that's the best thing. It's just so sad to think he isn't a baby anymore!

So far I have completed one new design for Christmas cards. By the end of the month, I will be adding these designs to my shop, and probably some handmade cards as well. I am also planning to do an email list for those of you who want to be informed of updates to my shop, giveaways, etc. Let me know if you want to be added! You can just leave a comment for me.

Feeling tired

2008-08-25T13:42:00.000-07:00

No new pictures today...I haven't uploaded anything recently. For those of you wondering, I have not been feeling very well with this pregnancy. With Odin, I felt fine and it was hard to tell I was pregnant. With this baby, I often feel nauseous and very very tired. I don't like feeling this way and can't wait until the first trimester is over. Thankfully, I have a wonderful child who isn't too much trouble, and that makes things a lot easier. I hope this baby has the same disposition as his/her brother!

As far as my etsy shop goes, I have done a few birth announcements recently off-etsy, and that's been fun. I am also planning on creating some new designs next month for...Christmas cards! Yes, it is early, but I didn't get a head start last year and I know some people send theirs out early. By the beginning of October, I plan to start adding those Christmas cards to my shop. So, when you are ready to start thinking about it, remember A Joyful Vision!

That's about all for now...sadly, not much goes in my life, and I have really not been up to much. I would love to get out more and get Odin together with other kids, though. I can tell when he is around them that he really enjoys it, I just don't have a lot of mom friends around here! So I am going to try to think of things to do.

Big Brother!

2008-08-20T10:36:00.000-07:00

That's right, Odin is going to be a big brother in April! We are both hoping for a girl, and will find out what we are having at the 20 week ultrasound. Here is the photo I sent my mom to tell her, its hard to see the writing on the shirt though. It says "Only child" which is crossed out, then Big Brother.

Another one :)

2008-08-08T12:31:00.001-07:00

Here is a great one of Odin coming down the hall. Below that is the thank you card I designed for Odin's birthday. I added it to my shop!

2008-08-01T17:06:00.000-07:00

Here is a video of Odin as he learns to walk. He has been doing so good the past few days, he is practically a toddler!

Odins birthday!

2008-07-23T16:26:00.000-07:00

Yeah so my little baby is one now! A year can go by sooo fast. Definitely faster than before I had kids. Well, I forgot to post photos of his party and all that before, so here they are! His party was a week or so before his birthday, which we celebrated in Michigan (see below). Well, in an effort to blog more often, I decided to do just that today.

My etsy shop is still going slow, but I am working on a birth announcement for someone right now, so it's not too bad. I anticipate lots of sales around Christmas for Christmas photo cards, as I will be sending emails out to just about everyone I know! SO, if you are reading this and don't know what to do for your Christmas cards, keep me in mind!

Yesterday was Odin's 12 month appointment. He got 5 shots (yikes) which he screamed at but then was fine once we got in the car- and without any tylenol! My dad was in town this week and we got to spend some time with him as well. I don't often talk about this, but it has been really hard without my family around. I love spending time with them but then it is over so fast!

Today was Odin's final swim class. We could have kept going but it was getting too expensive for us right now. Everyone is so nice there and I think it is fun and he learns a little about how to swim. It is amazing how much conflicting information I read about swim classes for babies. Some classes claim to pretty much drown proof your baby (which I think is a little scary...I still wouldn't take my eyes off my child in a pool), while others are just for fun...but I did read recently that some researchers or whatever have said it isn't really that safe for babies to take swim lessons of ANY kind! So I, of course, am conflicted (as I am about many parenting issues), but I don't think swim lessons are harmful, as long as you know you should still watch your kids closely around water. After swim we went to babies r us where I loaded up on some much needed baby/toddler items (weird that I am already buying toddler items...but he is almost a toddler!) One thing I bought was the book Toddlerwise. I ready Babywise on a particular night where I had HAD it with feeling out of control (Odin was 2 months old). I finished it that night and knew it was the only thing that made sense to me. Odin is now a happy, sweet boy who sleeps so well, and I owe it in part to that book, part to my and Adam's hard work, and all to God's grace!

And finally, I do plan to add more items to my shop soon. I am hoping to come up with some new, inexpensive marketing strategies so that I can get the word out there. I am also writing a book. I have wanted to be a writer for the longest time but got scared and thought I couldn't do it. But why not? I'm actually good at and am full of ideas, so I am really hoping to finish this book by year's end. Wow, this was a long post!