A Window Into Whimsy

Growing too fast...

2011-08-24T23:18:00.001-04:00

Okay, I'll admit it... I'm getting back into blogging slowly. Dipping my toes in the water. But I'm doing it. ;) How about an update on the kiddos? Let's see... Haley is 13. EEEEEK. Yes, I shrieked a little. She's smart, beautiful, and a tad bit of sassy. Same Haley... just older. ;)

Here she is with her cousin Paige.

And then there's Davis, who is now 10! Two in double digits! My sweet Davis has grown up so much since I blogged last. He is still my sweet, sensitive jokester... but boy is he "older". Not as much cuddling these days. ;)

Being a single mom has certainly been interesting... and I know it's been hard on my kids adjusting to me not being around as much. But I have been so proud of both of them.... they have stepped up to the challenge well. :) I miss them every day when I'm at work! <3

Things that have made me smile recently...

2011-08-16T11:31:00.001-04:00

I have a little folder on my desktop. In it, I keep pictures of things I see on facebook, or another blog that make me smile. Some of them are projects that I'd like to do some day... some are just words that make me smile. Here are a few...

Here we have an amazing piece from A Little Bit Funky (link to the right!) The color just brings JOY to my heart!

Wise, wise words. I found this on Pinterest. I have lived these words.

Another Pinterest pic. I want to feel the rain. :)

And this one... this one hit me. LOVE. Going to have to order this and hang it in my home. You can find it here. My favorite line? "If you are looking for the love of your life... stop. They will be waiting for you when you start doing things you love." I don't think this could be any more true. Stay tuned to hear more about that one. ;)

Wow

2011-08-15T23:19:00.000-04:00

Tonight I had an amazing meeting with some wonderful ladies. We sat and discussed the things we do to make ourselves happy... we shared things about ourselves, and I got pumped. Loved every minute of it. Then I had to give out my blog address and suddenly I wondered how long it had been since I had posted. Wow... almost a year? That. is. crazy. The past year has .. but I am happier have been in a long time. So now my goal? To start sharing that happiness again. Tonight I was reminded that there is power in words. And I miss this. <3

It's getting chilly

2010-11-03T10:01:00.001-04:00

As the temperatures begin to drop, our daily habits start to change here in the Midwest. We find our winter coat deep in the closet. We go buy a new pair of gloves. We find that ice scraper deep in the trunk of our cars. We eat more soup. We get out the crockpot. And we start drinking more hot cocoa.

When I was a kid my mom would make a huge batch of hot cocoa at the beginning of the year, and we would have it for the entire season. All we had to do was warm up some water on the stove (or now in the microwave!) and we had instant comfort. Now I do the same for my kids. You know you want the recipe! So here it is. :)

• 10 cups dry instant milk

• 4 3/4 cups sifted confectioners' sugar

• 1 3/4 cups unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1 3/4 cups powdered non-dairy creamer
In a large mixing bowl, combine milk powder, confectioner's sugar, cocoa powder, and creamer. Makes about 15 cups mix, or enough for about 45 servings. Make sure to store in a sealed container.

I usually add about ½ cup to a cup of hot/boiling water. You can add more or less depending on how strong you’d like it to be. Don’t forget to add the marshmallows!

Suddenly

2010-10-11T23:15:00.000-04:00

Suddenly, I have a middle schooler. Suddenly... I'm having conversations that I really don't want to have. Are you ready for this? If you're not sitting? You should. ;)

The other day Haley and I were hanging out in the living room. Hanna Montana was on, though neither one of us were really watching it. And Haley asked "Mom, do you remember how HM's mom died?" And I said, "I'm not sure, I think she was sick. Cancer maybe?" And she said something to the affect of "Was it that disease if you have sex too early, or if you mix your blood?" I was in awe. And trying desperately to figure out what she was asking me.

Upon questions, I figured out that she was talking about AIDS/HIV. But wait, did she say having sex too EARLY? Wow... is that how the school explained it in the sex ed class? Hmmm... that's what she took away from it. And so... I got to explain to this precious, innocent face....

about STD's. And why it's best to only have one partner in your lifetime because if you have sex with a person that has had sex with five others.. it's like you've had sex with those five other people if they have contracted anything. I think at one point I used the word sex 5 different times in one sentence. (Gasp!) I was totally cool. Totally together. And they she left the room and I thought... Did that really just happen? ;)

Can I just say... that I love my daughter? I love her for asking... I love her for having the courage to ask any question. And I love her for listening to the answer, and really wanting the TRUTH. She is pretty amazing, that girl. I just don't know that I'm ready for her to be a woman. ;)

I love me some Davis

2010-10-04T08:37:00.001-04:00

My son is hilarious. I'm sure not everyone thinks so.... but for me? He can make me laugh when I'm grumpy, angry, sad, or already smiling. In the car last night, he had me rolling. Let me share. ;)

My car recently had some work done on it, and I've been borrowing a car. Davis made a comment that it sure was nice to have windows that roll down in the back seat. (Our mini van has the pop out style). I told him that I was sorry... we were about to go get the van. He said "Well that sucks." And I looked at him and said, "Hmmm... I'm not so sure you should be allowed to say that." He replied, "That sucks? Why not?" I said, "Well did you know that is Grandma Cathy's LEAST favorite word of all time?" and he said "Well that SUCKS!" And gave me a wink. I was cracking up. I wasn't even able to explain why he couldn't say it anymore. I had to call my sister to tell her. (To explain... my mom always made us say "That sucks popcicles" because she didn't want it to be implied that we could mean something else. We still joke about this... since the idea of it meaning something else hadn't occurred to us! lol).

While I was telling my sister the story, Davis was trying to get my attention. When I got off of the phone I asked him what he had needed. He said "I don't know, something about.. CHEESE!". I know it's hard to give the effect in writing... but he is just a nut. He couldn't remember so he said that instead. Well, I giggled and said, no was it about Aunt Susan's car? (My sister was in a car accident last week, and I had asked her if she had gotten everything taken care of when we were on the phone). He said, "Oh yeah!" And I said, well everything's okay but someone hit Aunt Susan's car with their car. And he said "Wow, that person must be REALLY STRONG!" And I about peed my pants laughing! He is just so quick.. and so dead pan when he needs to be. The perfect comedian. :D Hope you at least giggled a little. ;)

Still Breathing...

2010-10-03T15:49:00.000-04:00

Recently Kelly O. posted and asked if I was okay. :) (Thanks sweetie!!) It made me realize that I haven't posted in months. I guess I knew... I've just been too busy to do anything about it.

Life is good. My neighbors have settled in and realized we aren't awful people... and we found an amazing family down the street that the kids love. Five children... all homeschooled. There is more than enough fun to go around. ;)

In my personal life, I've gone through an interesting several months. Well, two years really. If you read my blog you know that Ross moved to New York almost 2 years ago. He has been living with his female friend since he moved there. He came to visit here in June, and brought here with after I requested he not. After a year and half of waiting and patience, I decided that enough was enough. I filed for divorce a few weeks later. I've been a single mom for 2 years... but juggling it all got harder this summer, since I now have a part time job AND the markets and craft shows that I participate in. Keeping up the blog was just too much. I do hope to start again... as this really is something that I enjoy. I have met some amazing people along the way. My daughter enjoys reading my thoughts, and I love that for years to come she will be able to look back on this blog and smile. :)

I thought I'd post a few pictures from the last few months so that you can see that we really are doing well... and hopefully you'll get some more updates soon. ;)

I'd say from that look that they are doing okay. It's been a tough few months for them... and for me. There are many things I'd love to say... but for their sake I will just say that I know things will be okay. And that I'm ready for what is to come. Life is good. ;)

Want to help?

2010-05-03T09:21:00.000-04:00

So here's the deal... this is going to be a long post. Prepare yourself. :) We all know I'm wordy... but this may be a little extreme. So I'm just giving you a head's up. :)

As you all know, we recently moved to a duplex a few minutes away from our old home. I love the setting... gorgeous back yard, in our price range, great neighbors on the other side of the duplex. It's fantastic. Except that there are some really crappy neighbors. The first night we were there (just bringing some stuff over) a girl pushed Haley down the hill. The next day a boy told his dog to "get them" and gestured towards my children. The next day a mom came over to tell me that it is a rough crowd, and that she heard her boys using words she didn't approve of with my kids. This is the only house that has parents who pay attention. No, I'm really not joking. There are kids everywhere, but no parents save this one mother trying to raise her children to not do what every other kid in the neighborhood is doing. Sigh.

So to get to the point.. on Saturday my sister (she rocks!) was helping me finally get my stuff from the old house. We left our three children at my home while we ran there to load up the car. While we were there I got a phone call from Haley saying that there were some kids harassing them in our yard, and she had asked them to leave. They refused. So when I got home, I went back and told the kids that they needed to leave. None of them moved very quickly... instantly the husband of the mom mentioned before was there to retrieve his kids. The two girls were not moving. I told them that they were welcome to come and play in my yard when if they asked permission, or were playing with my kids, otherwise they needed to leave. Still not moving. I went to the front of the house to finish unpacking the car, and the girls took a few minutes to come out and leave. On their way out I told them that if they continued to be there without permission I would call the police. Okay... let me just say that I know that's extreme...but I had had 3 separate people (including my landlord) tell me that that was what I needed to do... since I had already told the children to not be in my back yard.

Yesterday the girls' father came over. He told me that I was rude for threatening his children... and that that was not the way to "make friends" in this neighborhood. I said, well, I asked them to leave and they did not, and this is my yard. He proceeded to tell me that they were not on my "side" of the yard. (Which is funny, because the ladies on the other side of the duplex have been very clear that the entire yard is for both sides). I had talked to the neighbor on Friday and she had expressed that she has told the neighborhood kids that they are NOT to be in our yard. I told him as much. He replied "Then she's lying to one of us, because she gave my kids permission to be there." He proceeded to tell me that if I was going to threaten his children, he would call the police every time I "speed down this street". I replied that I don't go about 25, and that I was yelled at one day while going 20 after I had just let 2 girls cross the street in front of me. He told me if I got yelled at that it was for good reason... "What if a kid darted out into the street?" So... he just told me that he would call the police if he felt I was going too fast... even if it was under the speed limit. He proceeded to tell me that my kids aren't allowed in their yards or anyone else's.

At this point I'm not sure what to do. I told the kids that they are to play in our yard... and if they would like to invite kids over to our yard anyone is welcome after an invitation or if they ask permission. But I don't feel comfortable with them in other people's yards anymore. I literally felt a little weird going to bed last night... and went and double checked our locks. He was agitated, loud and just plain not nice. :( So what is your advice? Do you let kids in your yard at all hours? I feel like my children should be able to ask someone to leave their own yard. I also feel like I have not done anything wrong by driving 20 down the road while stopping for kids when I see them. Be honest folks... I need it. Oh, and if you're still reading... you rock. :)

The Reveal...

2010-05-01T09:47:00.000-04:00

You thought I forgot didn't you? The truth is...I thought that posting a sneak peek would help me finish the project earlier. But alas, time does not yield to my needs. :( And it took me a while to finish it.

This project is called "House Rules"... and proudly displays our rules on the wall. I saw this idea a good year ago and loved the thought. I saw SO MANY of them that I loved that I couldn't narrow down what I wanted to do. I put it in my vault of ideas... and recently decided it needed to happen. :)

I started by searching for "Family Rules Canvas". If you end up wanting to make one, I suggest you do the same. I swear, there are some amazing completed projects out there! I needed help deciding on which rules I wanted to post. Here are the ones I chose...

Be respectful, thankful, and grateful.
Dream big, smile often, forgive always
Always tell the truth
Encourage others, share in their joy
Use your manners... Yes please, No thank you
Work Cheerfully
Clean up after yourself
Be Yourself
Sing silly, dance crazy, hug often, snuggle often, say I love you
Share everything... except bad ideas
Be Creative
Have fun, Be kind, Ask first, No fussing, No whining
Keep your promises

There were some other cute options... funny options, serious options, silly options. But these were all things I felt were important for my kids right now. Davis said "I do that stuff... well, I struggle with "clean up after yourself" huh?" I'd say he's still doing pretty good. ;)

Plus who doesn't love a little bit of pom poms and ric rak? *Swoon*

Really?

2010-04-28T21:28:00.002-04:00

For years the Jenison Public Schools have been ranked as one of the best schools in the country. And I have to admit... I feel fortunate to be in this district. When Haley was in 2nd grade however...we decided to do school of choice and went to an elementary school in the same district.... yet not the one in our neighborhood. There were many things that contributed...the largest factor being the principal and her lack of discipline regarding bullying. I never regretted my decision, as I love the kids' school and teachers.

Today I drove by Haley's old school. And I didn't know whether to laugh... or be angry. Here is what I saw...

Hmmmm.... pretty sure that isn't correct grammar. Let me be clear... I do NOT claim to have perfect grammar. I also don't work at a school. Is this really what we are teaching our children? I wonder if they are trying to be "cool" and relate to the kids? Can we not relate without teaching them it's okay to be too lazy to spell out the words? This sign makes me sad. And I'm REALLY glad we switched schools. Maybe you think I'm over-reacting... I see it as the first of what is to come. :(

School Fun

2010-04-28T17:08:00.000-04:00

Last night we went to the kids' school for an art and drama night. It was fantastic. Art is not Davis' favorite subject.. but Haley is more like me, and loves every aspect of artistic things. She is in Drama Class at school and has been excited about this night for a while. I was so proud of her. :)

We started out looking at some art pieces the kids made. Be forewarned, I have misplaces my battery charger for my camera in the move (Insert gaspy cry here) and so I had to take pics with my phone. I am trying to come to terms with it, lol.

Anyway... we started with our little Picasso...

Then we went to Haley's self portrait...

Can you see it above her? I think she did an awesome job. :)

Then Davis and I went and waited for the drama club to get ready (and Haley went to practice).

We can't just sit and wait... we have to occupy ourselves by taking silly self portraits, lol.

Then came Haley's big moment. She has been trying to find her 'niche' for years, and I think we just stumbled upon it. Most of the things that the drama club did was improv.... something that would absolutley panic me to my core. Not Haley... she got up there and did her thing... and loved every second of it!

Here she is doing the "Three Headed Wizard". The audience asks a question... and the Wizard answers the question... but each "head" can only say one word at a time. I cannot explain to you the wackiness that ensues at this point. :) I was so proud of her.. she thought before she spoke... but not so long that it was awkward. She was witty... she was a star. :) And I loved every second of it. :)

Sneak Peek...

2010-04-15T17:00:00.000-04:00

Earlier this week I was in kind of a 'funk'... and needed to do something for me! So I got crafty... only it's not quite done. So here's a sneak peek...

Are you intrigued? You should be... I mean, with all that aqua and red it has to be gorgeous, right? lol I'm putting some finishing touches on and hope to be finishing it up tonight. :)

Flashback Friday

2010-04-09T08:53:00.001-04:00

My bloggy/twitter friend Tia does this thing called Flashback Friday and I just love it. She chooses a picture from back in the day, and just talks about it. It is so fun to see older pics of her and her hubby... so I've decided to join in. If you want to see hers, just click on the Christopher and Tia widget on the left side. :)

This is me and my best friends at my graduation party. Joie is on the left, I'm in the middle, and her boyfriend (now husband) is on the right. Number one, can I just say that I was so cute back then, and had no idea? Does anyone else look back and think about how you thought of yourself, and realize now that you were so cute and just didn't know it? lol

Anyway, on to why I really chose this picture. ;) Joie is that kind of friend that changes your life forever. I met her when I was in middle school... desperate for attention and having no clue who I was. Her family became my second family. I camped for the first time with them. I swam in their pool. We convinced a girl in 8th grade that we were really twins, but that our parents were divorced, and we lived with separate parents. lol I introduced her to Kurt, (on the left) and they are married now, with an absolutely adorable perfect little girl. I could count on Kurt and Joie to do pretty much anything for me back then... they were my glue. I'd date some weirdo guy and they still loved me. I broke up with Kurt's best friend, and he still loved me. (Though I have to admit, Kurt and I loved to butt heads, lol).

When I married Ross I lost contact with alot of my friends. I was in a different place... married, having kids, and they were all still in school. Then Kurt and Joie got married, they moved off to California, as Kurt was going to an amazing school out here for acting. (He is amazing). I lost contact with them for a few years, and it broke my heart. But every time I would talk to Joie, it seemed like no time had passed. She knows me better than anyone else. So... thank God for Facebook. :) And blogs. Because now I can talk to her any time I want... and I get to read her blog. ;) Some friends really are forever. :)

Thanks :)

2010-04-08T09:40:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to say thanks to everyone for the wonderful birthday wishes yesterday! (And to whoever anonymously 'sang' me happy birthday in the comments, THANK YOU!)

It was a great day. When I got home, Haley had written me a poem. :) On pink paper.... which just made it that much better! I have such awesome kids. ;)

I went in to work for a couple of hours in the afternoon, and then we went to Sonic. Woot! Who doesn't love a good ol thing of Sonic Tater Tots? ;)

Hope everyone is having a fantastic day! It's raining here. :( But that's okay, because my in laws surprised me the other day with the fact that they are coming home 3 days early... so it's time to go pack up the last of the stuff at the old house!! Wish me luck!

Happy Birthday to ME!

2010-04-07T10:50:00.001-04:00

My birthday is today! And so far, at about 11 am, it has ROCKED! :)

Last night, Davis said he just couldn't wait until today, and gave me 4 squishies. (See the Easter post if you don't know what I'm talking about!) They were some of the best from his 'stash'. How sweet is THAT? Haley told me she'll have something for me tonight. :)

Then a co-worker Andrea gave me a card yesterday because she wasn't working today. How sweet was that?

This morning when I got to work, two of my co-workers sang Happy Birthday, and it was just awesome! Being a stay at home mom for so long... I was usually not with adults on my birthday during the day... so this was a treat. Then my boss walked in and knew it was my birthday and greeted me with best wishes. WOW! Then he admitted it was facebook that reminded him on the way here, lol. Whatever! It doesn't matter how he knew, lol.

Then Nicole (co-worker) came in and gave me a little bag of goodies! Look at that cupcake card! I mean, does that not just make you smile? That thing is getting hung in my house for sure! :) Along with the card and a Diet Coke (my drink of choice!) was a little Garden Knome named Norm. :) He wards off unwanted guests for the new house. :)

Admit it, he's adorable. Love it.

And just now, as I was writing this post, ANOTHER co-worker brought me a gorgeous Gerber Daisy, and a $5 gift card to Panera! Hello wonderful lunch on my special day!

Can it get any better? AND Facebook keeps emailing my phone to let me know that people are wishing me Happy Birthday! So I say you should celebrate today too! Go get yourself something yummy, and say Happy Birthday to Karin! ;)

Easter

2010-04-06T10:32:00.002-04:00

This Easter was our first holiday in the new house.. and it was a good one! Ross was supposed to meet us half way, since he worked the night before and had to open the store the next day. But after talking to the kids, they both agreed they would rather just see him later in the week (and have an Easter celebration then) and not have to be in the car for basically 6 hours on Easter. So we stayed home, and talked to Ross on the phone. Which meant we got to do our Egg Hunt here at the new house. :)

But first things first... the kids had to open their baskets!

So the yearly dilemna at our house is that Davis likes to wake up with the sun, and Haley likes to sleep in. This makes things tough when the Easter Bunny brings Easter Baskets and you are supposed to open them together. So Davis came into my room and waited patiently until about 8 am and then we woke up Haley.

Then he hid under the pillows so he wouldn't sneak a peek while we waited for Haley to get some clothes on.

Then Haley helped him over to the baskets while he closed his eyes. He likes surprises. :)

Then on to opening. :) Ever see a picture of your child and are in awe their beauty? That's where I'm at with Haley.

Then, of course, Davis started acting silly. "It's WHOPPERS!" said like Jarod the Infomercial Guy.

Then it was outside to hunt for eggs!

Don't tell the postman... but yes I totally hid one in the mailbox. ;)

Davis just figured out what's in the eggs. :) They love these things called "squishies". They come in a little quarter machine, and they trade them with kids at school (they are really pencil toppers). I stood at that quarter machine for forever. I'm sure other parents thought I was nuts, lol. But the kids were ecstatic!

Overall it was a great Easter. I was going to make a big meal, and then the kids both wanted weird stuff, like nachos. So I made EASY simple stuff for each of us that we really wanted. :) No sense in making a big ol' ham if Davis really just wanted Chips and Cheese! lol

Filling it with things I love...

2010-03-29T11:41:00.055-04:00

The one thing about this new house that has been interesting is trying to make it "mine" without it actually being mine! lol We are renting at the moment, and that makes things interesting. I love me some color. You all know that. I mean, color is what makes me smile every day. And though my landlord did a great job picking out colors (seriously, it's actually a really pretty color!) they aren't really MY colors. Because my colors are a little out there. I know it. I love sunshine yellow, and apple green, and any and every shade of aqua. What to do, what to do. Well... go shopping of course!

This is the first piece I bought. I splurged. I spent way more than I should have. But I was in love... and it would fit so perfectly on that little landing on the stairs. Otherwise that's just WASTED space, right? I thought it would a great spot to stick our shoes, as our front door is just to the right. I bought it at a little shop in Holland (Michigan) called Found. All painted and wonderful and READY. :)

Then I went on Craigslist. I found some pieces that I painted. (One was the table next to the couch in the last post). Then I found an AMAZING deal on an entertainment center. It was orginally a $1300 unit, and in perfect condition. They had asked like $400 for a few weeks and gotten no response. They lowered it to $100 and I was the first to respond. Woot! It took FOUR men to get into the house. I tried to warn my brother in law... I still don't think he was mentally prepared when he came to help, lol. But I love that I can close the doors and you don't see the TV. Do you see the little magazine rack to the left? Aqua goodness... just $5. Do you want to hear the story? Of course you do. :)

I was driving to Target, and saw a "Barn Sale" on the side of the road. My heart started to flutter. There were butterflies in my stomach. They were still pulling things out. I called two friends to share the news. No, I'm not joking. This was a freaking AWESOME sale. :) And first I found that cute little magazine rack. *Happy!*

Then I saw this dresser... for $30. Don't hate. It is sunshine yellow. It is in my bedroom, and every morning it makes me smile. My husband hasn't seen it yet. When he comes into town (or reads this, lol) he is going to laugh. I'd never get away with this if he had any say, lol.

The edges are all roughed up and vintagey. It's perfect.

I ran up and asked her to hold it. Then I found a cute little pink chair for $15 for Haley's desk in her bedroom. She LOVED it. No pic today.. but I'm sure you'll see it soon.

Then I saw a little green shelving unit in the corner. $15. My sister called it "hideous"... which in sister speak means, I wouldn't be caught DEAD with that anywhere near my home, but it is so you it hurts, lol. Apple Green Wonderful. Rickety, with some of the wood showing from the paint wearing off. LOVE it next to the brown dresser I painted for me room.

I loaded all four pieces up in my van and went off to Target. While there I kept wishing I had bought this little piece. (Sorry... will post a pic another day.. I'm at work and forgot to photograph this one) and so I stopped by again on the way home. I asked for a price and it was a dollar. Hell to the yeah. Don't laugh... but it was a little rocking horse from probably the 60's. It was aqua with a red seat. It has no purpose but to make me smile. I didn't show it to my sister... she'd probably run screaming. lol. Anyway, while I was there, yes, the second time, I called a friend to ask her to unload the stuff at the new house... and told her to meet me at the sale. Yes, I am an enabler. She is so much better than me... she didn't buy a thing. But I saw a table and chairs that I was in love with. I wasn't sure if it would go in the new house... but I needed a set small enough to fit in the eat-in kitchen. I had decided to wait... until I saw this set. I had the friend come and look at the house and advise me. I thought if I waited a bit... it wasn't an impulse buy. And if I went back and it was gone... it wasn't meant to be. The friend told me to go for it. She's an enabler too. ;)

I went back for the third time that day. Yes, the ladies giggled when I got out of my car. " I had to make room, you know!" I said as I approached. The table was no where to be seen. When they saw my disapointment they asked which piece I was looking for. "Oh, that's just inside.... we moved some stuff around!" Can you say $65 for a table and chairs? The cheapest thing I had found (ugly) on Craigslist was $150. Jackpot!

Now I'm just deciding which direction I like it facing. It may move around a bit before I'm happy. :) But the kids love the bench and I love the color. Yes, my house now has every color of the rainbow, lol. And I LOVE it. :)

Our First Night at the New House

2010-03-28T11:40:00.000-04:00

So I'll admit, it happened last week sometime, and I'm just getting around to posting about it... but here are some pics from our first night at the new house. :)

When the kids got home from school a week ago last Thursday, I looked at them and said, "Okay, we're going to do it. Help me get your mattresses!" and we loaded them into the van. Earlier in the day I had bought Ross and I a new queen mattress and box spring and put it in our room (yes, by myself, because I am SO AWESOME!) so we were all set. I had decided I would use the box springs from the old king size that Ross and I had used for 12 years. They don't need new right? (They both used to be in lofts, so had mattresses but no box springs). I had even mentioned it to a mattress guy and no one said anything. Great plan RIGHT??? Um, nope, lol. King beds are like 4 inches longer. Which means when I got the mattresses and box springs over there (again, by myself because I couldn't fit the kids AND the beds in the van), and UP THE STAIRS, I realized what I bad plan I had devised, lol. It wouldn't fit in the headboard/footboard. I started cracking up, and took off the footboard. In Davis' room I just didn't bring the box spring upstairs...

And with Haley's... well, I just dropped the rails on the floor and excepted defeat, lol.

Those pics were of them going to sleep that night. I don't think they cared too much, lol. Davis said he slept REALLY well, which is great. Haley and I woke up a few times but still slept well. Weird noises in new houses! By the way... for those of you with a well... does it make a knocking noise? I've never had a well... and frankly, can't figure out some of these noises, lol.

A few days later an AWESOME, AMAZING, WONDERFUL friend helped me moved our couch. It's a beast I tell ya. It is a sectional... with a queen sleeper. Um, yeah. Men who I had told about it cringed at the thought. So us ROCKIN' women did it ourselves, thank you very much! :)

I was SOOOOOOOOO happy to have a couch to sit on. (please note, I was waiting to clean it until we moved, hence the stains, lol). I thought the kids would take their usual places...

But the both chose the floor. CRAZIES! But that left a big ol' comfy couch for me, so I'm not complaining :)

Wait, what?

2010-03-24T20:35:00.000-04:00

So... I came to my blog to let you know the progress on my move. And then I looked at the date. How the heck did THAT happen? Has it really been a month??? I mean... I knew I hadn't been around, with moving, working and mom-ing (yes, that is totally a word, lol) but honestly had no idea it had been a month! Eek!

So here's the update! We made it! We are sleeping at the new house... but half our um... 'stuff', is still at the old house. Eek! Just a short couple of weeks and it will all be out. I have A LOT to for a garage sale. But I love that I am getting rid of things that we don't need. :)

I'd love to post some pictures for you.. but I forgot some of the essentials at the other house... and can't get pictures from my camera to my computer, lol. :) But hey, I came and said hello. ;)

Hope you all are doing well... I promise I'll post something worth while soon. :)

Amazed But Not Surprised

2010-02-27T08:46:00.001-05:00

My daughter has mad skills. I have always known that Haley is smart... brilliant really. She has always been a 'thinker'... taking in EVERYTHING that she hears. She lives inside her head mostly, which can be wonderful and bad at the same time. ;) I love it when she opens up and shows us what she's thinking.

Yesterday I didn't quite get home by the time the kids were off the bus, so I called to let them know that I would be home shortly. She immediately read me a poem that she had written. I was shocked. It was really good. And not just like, oh, what a cute poem kind of good... but like, wow, she should send that into a contest or something. :) (When you read it, if you disagree, spare me, I'm having a Proud Mama moment here!)

What? You want to read it? Okay!

Ocean blue, reflecting sky,
eagle wings up so high,
as land and wind dance in time
as magic shivers down our spine
salty sea, frothy foam
it's time to bring lost objects home
with teh help of three friends
this hero shall make all amends
water, logic, love and sky,
all emotions running high
now it's time to catch the theif
until the victims find relief!

When I asked her what inspired it, she said that it is about a game that she and some friends play at recess. To me that just made it more neat. It wasn't just sort of a fairy tale poem... it had context!! I am really proud of her.. I think I'm going to go buy her a little book to write her poems in. When I was in Middle School I used to love to write poetry... even won a contest at my school for one I'd written. I haven't written a poem since 8th grade. It's so fun to see that she is enjoying something I did when I was her age. :)

I need to play the lotto

2010-02-23T13:00:00.001-05:00

Yesterday was a good day. I mean, a really good day! I worked in the morning, then went to go weigh in for the Biggest Loser Challenge at work. I was worried... it wasn't a good week, lol. I had ice cream. Twice. So I wasn't hopeful. I had missed weighing in last week and thought, well, if I maintained, I'm happy. I lost three pounds! Woot!

From there I went to a few thrift stores looking for some things for our new duplex. Haley and Davis are both sleeping in lofts right now and both have wanted to switch to normal beds for a while now... it seemed like the perfect opportunity to make the switch. (If you're local and you're interested in buying a blue Ikea loft, let me know, lol!) Anyway, I've been looking on Craigslist, and did mind one twin headboard/frame but needed to find another. Enter the reason I need to play the lotto (the title). I had a GREAT thrift find day. I bought...

A lamp for $3. This was my first purchase. I was so excited I thought to myself that I should probably not even go anywhere else. I mean, who finds multiple good finds in one day, right?

You might be wondering why this lamp is so great... but that color? It's my favorite. color. ever. Love it.

Then I found a headboard for $6. (Sorry, no pic). I will probably paint it. But it was $6.

A frame for $3. No, a BED frame for $3. Seriously???? Even if the headboard doesn't turn out... I have the frame! Woot!

I felt like dancing around the store. Then I found this chair...

I know... it has seen better days...

But it was... wait for it... $10. I will paint it, (then rough up a few of the edges, lol) replace the padding and fabric, and this will be Cee-ute!

And then, you'd think I was done right? I mean, I've spent $25 and gotten a lamp, a bed, and a chair. I should be done. But then I saw this...

Now some of you are wondering why I would spend even $5 on this little trunk. But I. Love. It. It makes me smile. It is just vintage enough... just worn enough... without just being an old piece of crap, lol. I love me some vintage. And this is just so darn pefect! (My sister is shaking her head right now, guaranteed, lol). But I love to surround myself with things that make me smile... and this does it.

So there it is, my $30 Thrift Day that practically furnished a room in my house. ;)

Moving...

2010-02-22T20:02:00.001-05:00

After renting from my in-laws for twelve years we have decided to move... just needed a change of pace. Last week I told the kids. I have to admit, I was nervous. I knew that Haley would be sad, as she is emotionally attached to items, including the house.

At first, they both cried... Haley because she will miss the house, and Davis because he doesn't like other people to be upset. ;)

I explained all of the up sides to moving... all of the details. They started to warm up to the idea. I showed them the pictures online... Haley saw a bedroom with a dormer nook (it is cape cod style duplex) and she called that room as hers. Which meant Davis would be getting a room almost twice the size his is right now. I think I had him hooked right then. ;)

After we talked for a bit, I decided that we should drive over and let them explore the back yard, even though we couldn't get inside. Boy am I smart. ;) This was just what they needed to see.

Just the front, nothing too exciting, lol.

Here we have Haley trying to fake smile when really she wants to scream that she doesn't want to be here. :(

Then we went into the back yard and they saw the above play structure. Things were looking up, lol. First they thought they could only use half, just like the house. :) When I explained that the people next door are all adults, they got pretty excited because it meant the backyard was pretty much theirs. (The neighborhood has lots of kids, just not the other side of the duplex).

Then we went over to the side of the house...

And this was when I knew I had Davis on my side, lol. And that Haley would come to love it here, even if the thought of change makes her cringe. Its a hill they can slide down... right next to the house. Close enough that I can watch them from the living room. It's at the end of a cul-de-sac, so it's super safe.

It's been almost a week since I told them. Davis is excited... Haley is excited yet guarded. I can't blame her. I think they will both love it when we move though. :)

A New Project

2010-02-17T09:18:00.000-05:00

I recently went to Above All Fabric's Shop online and saw the SWEETEST pattern! I fell in love. What? It's a PDF??? Even better! Instant gratificiation!

It kind of just looks like a normal little wallet doesn't it? Oh but wait... it is so much better than that!

It's a COUPON ORGANIZER! Woot! I love it. I want to make 60 of them. Yes, I have a problem, lol. Unfortunately for all of you blog readers out there that aren't local... I can't share. :( The pattern (understandably!) is for limited commercial use. Meaning... I can sell them locally at craft shows but not online. But... the beautiful thing? The pattern creator has an etsy shop! You can purchase one for yourself from her!

I am uber-excited because I plan to use mine for budgeting. One slot will have my budget for gas, then next for groceries, the next for toiletries, etc. And no one will know I'm using the "envelope system" because frankly, it looks like a cute wallet. :) I might just need a second one for organizing my change at shows. And a third for coupons. I may also need to come up with a reason to make a fourth. ;)

Saving Money in a Bad Economy

2010-02-13T11:17:00.000-05:00

Thanks everyone for the nice comments on the new logo! I have been having fun with my editing software. :)

I was sitting here (at work! with nothing to do because weekend are so quiet!) trying to think of something I could talk to all of you about... without my camera around!! I looked at the newspaper and instantly thought of the economy and what I've been doing to try to save money. So I'm going to share. :)

1. Obviously, we cut back on certain things when my husband lost his job. At first I thought we might have to forgo television altogether... but that seemed like a might big adjustment. :) So we did the smallest package available with Dish Network. Let me tell you... they have the best customer service of any company I've worked with. Seriously. If you are struggling.. call them. They will help! They gave me a discount for 6 months so that my locals would be free.

2. Aldi. Do you have an Aldi supermarket near you? It's kind of intimidating at first. My mother in law doesn't like to go there becuase you have to put a quarter in the shopping carts.. and frankly, it's just different. But I LOVE IT. I can get 2 week's worth of groceries for us there for around $100 without any coupons! I also love their brand, which is important to me. I HATE generic peanut butter. but Aldi's brand is the same as JIF. :)

3. Not into going to an alternative grocery center? Think about using Savings Angel. This program is fantastic! I use it for groceries that I can't find at Aldi.. and save a TON on toiletries. When I first started it, I got razors, shampoo and some toothbrushes for... wait for it... FREE. You save your coupons... don't clip them. Then on Sunday they will tell you where to use your coupons from that day AND the last few weeks on items already on sale, for extra savings. It costs $20 a month... but I save that AT LEAST in the first grocery trip. I do know of another company that does this... but they charge by the STORE... which makes it more expensive. Because most of the time, I don't get EVERYTHING I need at just one store!

Do you have any fun tips? I'd love for you to share them!!!

Any thoughts?

2010-02-08T08:33:00.000-05:00

I've been busy the last couple of weeks, trying to make a new logo and update the blog and my website. Any opinions? It is so hard for me to get a real feel for what it looks like, as all computers are a bit different. Especially those darn wide screen monitors! lol At work, you see A LOT of polka dots on my website... at home? Barely any at all! lol

Anyway, I'd love some honest opinions. :)

And the Winner is...

2010-02-02T19:10:00.000-05:00

You thought I forgot didn't you? ;) Nope! Just busy with work... the winner is...

YOU!

(Email me at info@awindowintowhimsy.com and we will get you your goodies!!)

Congratulations! And thanks for sticking with me... I love all of you!

Random

2010-01-27T09:01:00.000-05:00

Random? Yup, that's me. :) After a few questions from a fellow blogger I realized that my last post made zero sense, lol. So... to clarify, the reason Haley is doing so well is that we started her on a new medicine for her ADD. I love it. I love it because I see more of Haley and less of the medicine. :) And because yesterday and the day before she had near perfect days at school.

Because Haley was having trouble getting things done at school, we started a check in and check out process at school. She has to check in and let her mentor know if things got done that day. She can get a possible 2 points for doing each item, 1 point if she did it but only partially, and 0 points if she didn't do it at all. There are categories for behavior, school work, and her planner. For 2 days she has gotten 36 out of 36 points. WHAT?? I know!!! She used to get in the low 20's. I am so proud of her.:) I don't expect perfection... but it sure is nice when it happens. :)

Haley Bedaley

2010-01-25T15:41:00.000-05:00

Haley on Fourth of July, 2008

My daughter is an amazing girl. She is empathetic, sympathetic, and so brilliant it surprises me often. She reads every chance she gets, and it shows. She will routinely tell me things that I had no idea were true. About History. About Science. About Animals. About everything.

Haley and I on our Disney Cruise, February 2009

Unfortunately for her, she was also diagnosed with ADD when she was in third grade. For years we had teachers and administrators go back and forth. One would say, "Absolutley yes, there is no doubt in my mind" and the next would say the opposite. We ended up having the district psychologist observe her. Twice. The fact that she was spending 3 hours an evening doing 15 minutes of homework was what convinced me. I knew she needed help. We tried some of the non-medicine solutions and nothing worked. We decided to help her with meds.

And boy, did we see a difference! The girl we knew was in there was able to shine. :)

Haley and her cousin Lauren, Summer of 2009

Over time we noticed that her anxiety (my entire family has anxiety and OCD tendancies) was hyper sensitive when she was able to focus better. Things that had bothered her before were now giving her true, around-the-clock worries. She worried about Hurricanes and Tornadoes. She worried about spiders. She was already seeing the school social worker for dealing with some of her medical issues and the mental anxiety that comes with it. We decided to start her on an anti-anxiety med. It was amazing. She was SO much happier!! We couldn't believe it could be this easy. My nephew had had to try several meds in order to get such results. We were thankful.

Haley on the first day of school, 2009

But looking back over the last few years, we realized that Haley had become VERY self critical, and critical of those around her. One day, when speaking with her social worker, she was able to give advice to her fellow students, the next day she had lost all empathy. We couldn't figure it out. After speaking to her third grade teacher (who Davis now has) we realize that she had never done that before 4th grade... when the meds were fully integrated into her life and body. We thought a change of meds may help.

All along, I've asked Haley if she liked or disliked the meds. She always said that she liked that it helped her focus.... that she was able to get done the things she was interested in. Now it was time to give something else a try. The VERY FIRST DAY she said she felt more confident. The next day, she was on the computer and having a snack. When she was done... she got up... went to the kitchen and disposed of her bowl... then returned to the computer. I cannot tell you what a VICTORY this was. No argument... no nagging. It may seem simple, but it made me rejoice. I feel like I can see more of HER now. My sister put it well when she said that on the other med, it was almost like she was just treading water... trying to survive. Now she is able to relax... and be Haley. Can I get a WOOT WOOT?

Haley on Christmas Eve 2009

Davis' Birthday

2010-01-24T15:14:00.001-05:00

So, in the midst of being sick, Davis had a birthday. He is 9 years old. *tear* My baby is getting big. He is unlucky to have a birthday that is just 5 days after Christmas. But lucky enough to have a mom that tries to make sure it's still special. We tend to stretch it out over a couple of weeks so that he's not opening all of his gifts at once.

First, he got to go shopping with Grandma before she and Papa headed back to Florida until spring. He picked out Legos. Suprise Surprise, lol. Here is is, with the Legos from Christmas and his first round of Birthday...

No, I'm not sure why he's not wearing a shirt. Scratch that. I'm not sure why I didn't make him put a shirt on. He never takes his shirt off at every possibility.

The day of his actual birthday, we decided that Chuck E Cheese was just the right option. We called up his best friend Chap and headed there! These two are so much alike it is ridiculous. They love the same food... hate to try new food. And oh, the jokes. They CRACK ME UP. Seriously.

Right up until he does stuff like this, lol. Don't mess with my pictures buddy! This would have been so cute!

Then the next weekend Ross was able to come in to town to celebrate. (For those of you just joining in, my husband is living in NY state working, because he was laid off here in MI last year.) Davis was ecstatic. We decided to go bowling and spend the day having fun.

This past weekend we had his final party. Yes, that means we spread it out for like 3 weeks. It's a bit extreme... but we like it that way. :) My side of the family came over and we had a Lego cake, ice cream and lots of fun. :)

My friend from work made the cake. Isn't it cute? It got a little "wrinkled" because it was left in the car and froze, lol. Welcome to Michigan. I still loved it.. and Davis didn't know the difference. And yes, yes he DID choose the blue. I think he wanted us to all have blue teeth. ;)

Yes, I still have Christmas stuff up. Don't judge. lol I usually have it all down the first week of January. Funny what happens when your children are continually sick and your husband lives in another state. ;)

I'm happy to say that Davis had a great Birthday. And added plenty to his Lego Collection. Which for him, is PURE BLISS. :)

I'm It

2010-01-22T16:15:00.002-05:00

Celene over at Maria Soleil tagged me on her blog. I wonder if she thought I'd notice? lol I've been so bad about blogging! But I figured that was just the reason to do it. :) The challenge is to write about seven things you might not know about me. Hmmmm....

1. In high school I was really into singing. I made State Honors Choir, sang in a local Music Society and paid for private lessons by babysitting for my vocal teacher's children. I haven't sang in front of anyone but my children in at least a decade. Haley says I have a pretty voice though. ;)

2. I have enormous feet. No, not like, oh, they're kind of big type feet. Enormous. And they grew after Davis was born. I wear an 11. Do you have any idea how hard it is to find shoes in a size 11? In Dutch country? Ugh.

3. This one is sort of odd... it's something I didn't really know about MYSELF. Recently I've discovered that there are multiple people out there that find me intimidating. It's funny... because I try to be a very soothing person. I try to listen... and try to think before I speak. I am completely fearful that I will offend someone. But apparently I put on a big front. The girls at work think I am a confident, "go get em" kind of a gal. Who'da thunk it?

4. I heart coffee mugs. Like, I have an obsession. Big Cappucino mugs? Even better. LOVE EM. Have you been to Hobby Lobby lately? Ultra cute mugs right now. For reals.

5. I love my job. I would hang out there if I could. It's sort of weird. I work at a retirement community. But this is no normal senior community. These are ACTIVE residents... they certainly don't need any help from me. But they come around and we chat. One resident is teaching me Dutch. He is HILARIOUS. He said that he was scared my husband was going to worry where I was learning all these crazy sayings. lol

6. I LOVE it when customers read my blog. I am honored. I am ecstatic. One gorgeous red head (Hi Courtney!) says she's my stalker. It cracks me up. Little does she know I stalk about 20 blogs, lol.

7. Secretly... I think I'm pretty. Actually, if I'm honest, I think I'm one of those people that people see and think "She'd be really pretty if she lost some weight". I'm not proud of that. But I'll admit it. But that's why I'm working out... and getting healthy. I'm going to be one hot momma! ;)

Okay... so now to tag some fellow bloggers. Tia has already tagged Celene, and she already tagged Catherine. Hmmmm....

1. Amy... who makes some of the most amazing beadwork. EVER. She amazes me.

2. Marybeth... who makes some SWEET purses...and other sewn items.

3. T... who does things with paper I can't imagine attempting. :)

4. and Courtney... the cutest, sweetest stalker ever. ;) (oh, and her blog has some great ideas, lol)

As if Strep wasn't enough...

2010-01-22T15:08:00.001-05:00

My son has looked like this for several days...

He hasn't been himself for a good 3 weeks. First we thought it was strep... again. But they did the test and he was negative. But he stayed in bed, and was generally just exhausted. This is the boy who gets up and wakes me up at 5 am most mornings. He is no woos... he doesn't want to miss a gym day at school even if he's puking! lol So when he was playing Legos with Haley and said he needed to rest, I knew things had reached an all time low. We went off to the doctor... with BOTH kids because neither felt well. They suggested bloodwork to make sure he didn't have mononucleosis. Fortunately, that came back today and he doesn't have it. WOOT! Unfortunately, he's added fever, achey tummy and a sore throat to his exhaustion. I'm hoping he's better by Monday. For both our sakes. Poor guy!

And then there is this girl....

There is no way she's going to be left out, lol. She tagged along to the doctor for her own ailments. First, she had to get another strep test, since she had it twice in a month. They wanted to make sure she had kicked it. (No word on that, yet). Now as though that's not enough, she thought that a bladder infection would really liven things up. She gets them FAR too often. We knew right away. She said "My bladder hurts". What other 11 year old knows where her bladder is? lol So in spite of the fact that she was on antibiotics for basically a month... she managed to develop a UTI. Then... her brother decided to share. :) She doesn't have a fever, and is recovering SIGNIFICANTLY better than he is... but she has the sore throat. I'm waiting for it to hit. Of course... she is also WAY better at resting than he is. A good (or mediocre, frankly) book is all she needs. :)

Now for the really important part of the post. Pray for me. Cross your fingers. Whatever. Do it all, lol. I can't get sick. My fingers, toes, legs, and arms are all crossed. lol

p.s. I'm keeping the giveaway open until February 1st. Haven't entered yet? Go HERE!

Hilarious

2010-01-18T13:41:00.001-05:00

So... you may not know this... but my son is hilarious. He cracks me up on a daily basis. Who knows... I might be biased...but it doesn't matter. He makes me smile.

Here are some Davisisms...

Me: Grandma sent you some hockey pj's... aren't they cool?
Davis: They are hockey??
Me: Yes! Don't you see the little hockey puck? The mask... (Pointing)
Davis: Oh, yeah! And they are red for the blood, right Mom?

Davis: Mom, can we buy cubed cheese so I can use toothpicks and eat like fondue???? (To be clear, the question isn't all that crazy... but the amount of excitement in his voice was hilarious!)

Mom: Time to wake up for school!
Davis: I already went to school in my dream!!! (As he pulled the cover over his head)

*drinking sprite* he says... Ugh... fumes from the sprite are painful!!

Working Out

2010-01-17T13:31:00.001-05:00

A few years ago I started to get into shape... I did a few 5K's and was running fairly regularly. I loved the way I felt... but hated running. Sorry runners... I still think you're crazy. Maybe I'll change my mind someday, but for now, I just don't dig it.

So frankly... I stopped. I started by just not exercising... then slowly my very bad habits all came back. And so now... I'm trying again.

I went to the gym twice this week. I biked, I treadmilled, I even lifted a few weights. And I ate salad. Wow, haven't had salad in a LONG time, lol. But it was pretty yummy. :)

For years I have gone back and forth about weight... in my head. Part of me says that if people are decent, they will see past my weight and see the real, awesome me. And I think I hid behind that for a long time. And it's true... those are the types of people we want around us right? But really... that's an excuse... even if it was not a consious one. The other part of me thought about how nice it would be to shop at any store I'd like to shop at. :) Or be the Hot Mom, lol. But really, at this point, I'm doing it for my health. I'm happier when I work out. I am more productive, and I feel better... mentally and physically. So from time to time you might hear me talk about it... and update on my weight loss. Maybe a picture or two. :) Anyone want to join me? :)

Hanging My Head

2010-01-16T13:28:00.001-05:00

In Shame. For reals. I know. My sister said she thought my new years resolution was to not blog anymore. Ouch. :( Yeah, I = Fail.

So now that we have that out of the way, lol... do you forgive me? Are you even still there??? Well, if you are... you rock. Seriously... because it's been way too long.

Oh, and just so we are clear... the kids have strep again. Just sayin'.

So... I'm thinking that if you have stayed with me, in spite of zero posts during the entire holiday season... that you might just deserve a prize. A Giveaway perhaps??? Yes!! I think that will do!

Let's see who's still there. :)

1. Leave a comment here, saying your favorite item in the shop or one that you've seen/purchased at a craft show from me.

2. For another entry, follow me on Facebook! Already a follower? Just say so. :)

3. And for yet another fantastic entry... blog about the giveaway or mention it on facebook.

Make sure to leave a separate comment for each entry... I will use a random number generator to pick the lucky winner!

So you're sitting there, thinking, "That's all great and dandy Karin, but what are you giving AWAY???" He he, if you are still reading, you must really love me. ;)

How about a $20 gift certificate?? You can use it to pick something on Etsy... or if you are local, you can use it at a craft show. :) Life is good. :)

STREP

2009-12-19T12:58:00.000-05:00

STREP - Seriously The Really Extreme Pits.

Okay, I know it's not clever, but it's the truth. I haven't posted in weeks. I have been sick. Sick, then supposedly better but not FEELING better, then sick again. :(

I came home from the Lowell show December 5th feeling exhausted, run down and just not well. My throat ached a little... but for the most part, I was just bushed. So I picked up my kids, (my amazing sister had even fed them dinner already!!!) and went home for a shower and a nap. I told the kids I was going to lay down... it was about 6:30. At 10 Davis woke me up and asked if they should go to bed. Wow. Um, yeah, that would probably be a good idea. So I got up and got them into bed, but I was shaking. Big. Time. I scared Haley... and if I'm honest, I scared myself a little. If I had been with all "with it" I would have been worried. Instead, I went back to bed. At 9 the next morning I woke up to Davis playing on the computer in my room. So... that's like 14 hours of sleep. I was still tired... but my fever was gone and I figured I had slept off whatever had been ailing me.

On Monday I had to go to the Doctor for a mole that needed to be removed (not cancerous, but just in case!) and he took one look at me and started asking weird questions. lol He has known me since I was about eight... he knows when I don't feel well. I told him the story of Saturday's craft show, and he ordered a strep test. Yippeee! Yupper... positive. So I came home, took some meds and went on about my week. Tired, exhausted, and just plain beat. That's how I describe how you feel when you have strep. I finished up my antibiotic, but was still feeling tired. I figured it was because I just hadn't 'caught up' yet.

Then this past Wednesday both kids woke up not feeling well. They couldn't quite place it, but they just didn't feel well. In to the doctor. Yupper... positive again. Fun. "So, Doctor... are they going to give it back to me?" I asked. "Um, not necessarily??" he replied questioningly. Ugh. I stuck my tongue out at him, because I knew he was just saying yes nicely, lol. Two days later I was there again getting my own test, lol. Again.

So here I am, and I still have strep... and 1642 projects to get done. So though I love you bloggity blog world... alas I have let you down. Please forgive me. :) I swear, I'll be back with some semi-witty banter soon. But for now... I'm going to go take a nap. Zzzzzzz....

Feel like helping me out?

2009-11-25T00:28:00.000-05:00

So.... I had this thought to do a gathered bag. Similar to the one I used to make... only with it gathered at the top AND bottom. So I made a hipster style... thinking that a long handle would be a nice option for a lot of people. (Ignore the bad lighting...it's late here, lol)...

When I posted it on Facebook there were nice comments... but a few people suggested I make it wider and shorter. I wasn't sure if that would work with the hipster style so I made this one...

This one is more of the over-the-shoulder style. What do you think? Which one?

I have my biggest show (and last show of the season) coming up and I wanted to make a few. But unfortunately I only have enough time to do one style. Help!! Opinions please!!!

Grumpy

2009-11-23T20:09:00.000-05:00

I'm feeling pretty grumpy today. But instead of grumping to you... I'm just going to share of my cute little family instead. Here we are back in February when we went on the Disney Cruise. My kids look so different now... and it's only been a few months.

Humility

2009-11-21T20:55:00.000-05:00

I am pretty sure that the universe was trying to show me some humility today.

I'll admit it. I was feeling pretty darn good about myself. I was featured in real, honest to goodness newspaper. Multiple people stopped me and said it was a nice article. I was feeling pretty good. Thinking about this weekend's shows (I was in TWO) I was thinking... whew! I am going to make some MONEY! lol I had it in my head... well... at the least I should make such and such at this one... and such and such at this one. Right? So life was good. Christmas shopping here I come. :)

On Wednesday evening I dropped off my items to Beneath the Tree. It is a local Home Tour style show that has artists inside a series of homes. This is my third year. My first year I sold one purse, lol. Ouch. But there wasn't a booth fee.... they simply take a percentage, so I returned the next year. Last year I did quite a bit better and was pretty darn happy. This year I was hopeful... but expecting about the same income as last year. So I set up my stuff on Wednesday... then returned on Friday to do some touring/shopping. I was really disapointed to find that there were several other vendors with key fobs. Some of whom didn't tell the committe they were bringing the item. That's okay though. Mine are beautiful... they'll sell anyways, right? Then I noticed some tissue cozies too. Sigh. Okay... I only brought purses, tissue cozies, lanyards, a few wallets, key fobs and my mixed media. (Which is about half of what I have, lol). So I started to get kind of punchy. Okay, I was downright feeling sorry for myself. I just KNEW I wasn't going to sell anything.

Enter 8 am this morning. I'm all set up at my show for today. I got there and was surprised to see a very confined space to set up in. I made it work, with the help of my friend Celene. She's awesome. :) Enter 9 am this morning. One hour into the show and $0 sold. Hmmmm... this was supposed to be the show with the HIGHER sales. Uh oh. Enter 10 am. One lanyard sold. Panic started to set in. Celene came to see if I needed a potty break and and I expressed my concern. Normally I have sold the majority of my total sales for the day by 10 am. By noon I was downright grumpy. I'll admit it. I kept trying to look at the bright side... but frankly couldn't find one. Then after lunch it picked up a little. I had made my booth fee back. Phew. But had JUST broken even. Then a little more came in. Okay... end of the day.. I'm thinking that it was a bad day... but at least I came home in the black, right?

So I headed over to my Beneath the Tree house to get my remaining product. I walked in and noticed there were a couple of purses gone. Hmmm... that's a good sign, right? Then I look over the key fobs are all but gone. Hmmm.... maybe I shouldn't have been so grumpy about all of those other key fobs. :) Turns out I did about double there than I thought I would! So basically... I just flip flopped the shows. The 'big' show became the 'little' show, and vice versa. Phew.

Are you still with me? Yeah, I know, that was a really long post, lol. Thanks for sticking with me. ;) Anyway, all of this to say... sometimes I think I just need a little reminder to not sweat the small stuff. I was so stressed, so bummed, so... just UGH. And then I go and there is a sweet little surprise at the end of the tunnel. :) Sure would have been nice to have a flashlight, huh? ;)

Want to see some pictures of my house at Beneath the Tree? Good! :)

Here's my tissue cozies... and some very popular mittens. :)

Some of my wallets. :)

I fell in love with these little wooden figures. He had a nativity... one that your kids could actually play with. LOVED IT!!! You do to?? You are so in luck. He has an etsy shop. :) You're welcome. ;)

Oh, and this GORGEOUS arwork. I wanted it. Like.. really wanted it. I just loved everything this artist made. Someday...

A Good Day

2009-11-15T09:51:00.000-05:00

It's a good day when you wake up and you are news worthy.. and not in the my-house-burned-down, or the I'm-going-to-jail sort of way, lol! Today I was featured in the Home and Garden section of the Grand Rapids Press. Smiles all around!!

Want to take a looksie?

I was super excited that she included the link for Beneath the Tree. If you are local to Grand Rapids and you haven't been to Beneath the Tree... you are missing out!! If you want more information (and you should, lol) go to http://www.beneaththetree.info/. I'm also at Our Lady of Consolation next Saturday in Rockford. Come on, admit it, you want to start Christmas shopping so you aren't stressed come December. ;)

Fun Fun

2009-11-14T20:41:00.003-05:00

Today I did a little show at a local movie theater. Fun fun fun! It was slow, but the ladies there helped me have a great day. I shared the booth with my bestie Stacie. She makes the most adorable hairbows. Seriously.

Our stuff looks so cute together doesn't it?

My friend Sarah was there too, and I swear, the three of us just love each other. They can both just make me smile any time they want. So I had to get a pic...

So we look pretty normal right? We look happy... the show had just begun. After about 7 hours of sitting and people watching, Stacie and I got a little punchy, lol. There was a girl that was set up right in front of life size aliens from the new movie Planet 51. It cracked us up... she looked like she was surrounded, lol. I told Stacie I was going to take a picture, and she said, no we need to take one of the 3 of us... only we need to make the same look they are making, lol. Oh my gosh, it just made me giddy. I am so NOT silly like that. Stacie is so good for me. She makes me take life less seriously and just have fun. So guess what? You get to see us being totally silly...

I was trying SO HARD not to laugh that this look was all I could muster, lol. I LOVE the looks on the other girls faces. Seriously, this picture just makes me CRACK UP. Love it. Thanks Besties. ;)

Rain

2009-11-12T12:55:00.001-05:00

When it rains it pours. Both the good, and the bad. Don't you think? Right now I feel like I'm being pelted from all sides. Let's start with the good...

I feel like my business is in such a great place. I go to a show and have a confidence I didn't have before. I am sure of my product, and of my abilities. It's a good feeling. The other day when I did a show my wonderful friend came and helped me. At one point a person bought a lanyard, and I mentioned that they are $10 or 2 for $15. She then asked me if I would do a dog collar ($16) instead of the lanyard at the same price. A fair question, but I declined, and said, "No, I'm sorry, I can't do that, as they are not the same price". My friend looked at me and said "I'm so impressed. You just said no, with such confidence. No back and forth." And it sort of made me giggle. When I first started this, I was so far the other direction. I would either fall over myself apologizing, or just give them the deal... so happy and honored that they wanted one of my items. Now I'm still honored... I just agree with them. :)

Another great thing that is happening is my new job. I love it. My only real complaint is that I wish I could be there more. Seriously.

And this weekend I got a call from a local freelance writer who writes a craft column in the Grand Rapids Press. You might know her from Craftsanity. She is pretty awesome. She wanted to feature me in this Sunday's paper. Honestly... even if it doesn't make it to print, I'm just giddy with pride.

So things are good. But they are also stressful. I have someone in my life that is less than supportive of my business. She doesn't say anything to me directly... but tries to convince others to not help me with the kids on days I have shows. Part of me says that it shouldn't matter... it is between me and the person helping. The other part of me is hurt. Hurt that I don't have that support that I wish I had. And I don't really know what to do with that.

Then there is my one sister. She had her second mastectemy last week. Sigh. I feel for her. I wish there was something I could do to help. But really... I think she just wants things to be normal, and calling to help is just a reminder that things aren't normal. Hugs for her.

And you know that interview for the press? Well, right about when she was emailing me to see if I could get together... I was dying my hair. Brown. The same brown I've dyed it twice this summer. Or so I thought. It came out Jet. Black. Seriously. Like, get out the black nail polish and dark eyeliner black. (Not that that's not beautiful on some... it's just certainly not me). The interview was to happen the next day. With pictures. I ended up trying to strip my hair with the "oops" stuff from the store. It faded to a dark brown with reddish highlights. I'm learning to love the new me. :) (You'll see pictures soon...)

Then there is Haley, who is really struggling at school. I am frustrated with her, and FOR her. Having an 11 year old is hard. WAY harder than I thought. And frankly, I've been scared about this age since she was born.

There are more... just silly little things that all add up to a big ball of hail, lol. Some days I am just so exhausted, tired, and overwhelmed. And then I remember those wonderful things I talked about at the top of this post. Plus my two kiddos who are the most wonderful things in my life. And I have a few really great friends, who support me in everything I do. In that, honest, I'll tell when I think you're screwing up, but still support you kind of way, lol. And that makes me smile.

Forgive me while I share some lines from another song...

Call it what you will, I call it rain

When troubles come and pan against my soul

Go in if you like, I will remain

And let the washing waters make me whole

Just when I'm sure that I can't bear the rain

A tiny leaf starts pushing through the ground

In a place where the soil was too dry to sustain it

A new tiny flower can be found

I like to remind myself that with every struggle comes wisdom. And just like the rain, those troubles do make me the person that I am. And I like that person. Even on the days I question what it's all about. :)

Sleep well tonight :)

2009-11-11T21:55:00.000-05:00

"People sleep peaceably in their beds at night only because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf." George Orwell

If you slept peaceably in your bed last night thank a Veteran!

The above sentences were on a friend's facebook status this evening. I couldn't agree more. I would just add one thing. Don't forget their families. :) I have always respected, admired and was thankful for, every person who has ever been in the service. But I'll admit that sometimes I underappreciate their wives, children and other family. I always appreciated their sacrifice... but not enough. I have a friend whose husband has been gone for 8 months... and her courage, generosity and humility inspires me. And every time I think about her husband being in Iraq, I wonder if I could make the same sacrifice with the smile that she has. So thanks to her, and to everyone out there sacrifcing for our country.

Words of Wisdom from Davis...

2009-11-09T21:52:00.002-05:00

Just a quick post... a few words of wisdom from my son. Who just cracks me up.

Today we got into the car after school and Haley said, "Ugh. My shoes are full of sweat." And Davis replied... "That's funny, my shoes are all full of feet."

I don't know what, but that just cracked me up. So matter of fact... and so silly. Love him. ;)

Worky work, busy bee

2009-11-09T08:00:00.001-05:00

Phew. That was a big week! Sorry I didn't have any posts this week! I worked at my new job, which I just absolutley love. Then I had a show on Friday, and another on Saturday in another city. I set up my booth twice on Friday!! That was a new experience, but it was worth it. I had a great weekend. :)

Of course, I forgot my camera, so no pictures. But I had my first 'sleepover' in many years and felt like a giddy little teenager again. The show I did on Saturday is about an hour away from my home, and I wanted to set up the night before. So I called my friend who lives about 20 minutes away from the show (about 45 from me) and asked to spend the night on her couch. She immediately volunteered to come and help me at the show. Woot! I never have a helper, and it was absolutley amazing.

Then on Saturday night I got a call from an awesome lady that freelances for the local press... and she wanted to do a feature on me in the craft column that she does. WOOHOO! So we met on Sunday and talked for about 3 hours more than it normally takes her, lol. It is a special talent I have, you see. ;)

Hope you all had a great week... I'll be back to posting soon, i promise. ;)

Dove

2009-11-03T09:22:00.015-05:00

Have you ever waited for a movie come out forever, watching your kids get more excited by the day, only to and have the entire movie be inappropriate for their age? Sigh. Yeah, that sounds very frustrating. Fortunately, I know a way to avoid it altogether.

I use Dove.org. It is a Grand Rapids MI based (my home town, WOOT!), non-profit organization that reviews movies. They not only review the content to say whether it was a decent movie, but also if it is approriate. Here's the nice thing... they also tell you WHY. Not just 'violence' or 'language'. In the review, they tell you, the parent, that they said the word 'butt' two times, etc. Now, the word butt seems harmless to me... but maybe not to someone else? Also, for those religions that do not condone sorcery, they will tell you about that too!

I always thought this was something everyone knew about and used. Then when I offered the site to a local mom, she said she had never heard of it! A shame! So I thought I'd share it with all of you... just in case. :) Happy movie watching!

More of Sara

2009-11-02T07:21:00.000-05:00

Since I some great responses from my other Sarah Groves post a few days ago, I decided to share another. :) This one has another very special place in my heart, and it is from the same album.

I am a person that feels called to volunteer. Partly selfish, I love the feeling I get when I am giving to someone else. I love that my time, my thought, my effort can help another person. I used to help run a Mothers of Preschoolers group, and loved it. Giving a group of mothers time for themselves helped them be better mothers, and it made me feel like a better person. I have done a lot of volunteering over the years. Girl Scouts, school functions, etc. You know the drill. ;) And I have to admit that there were definitely some rough times. It is a lot of work. You have to balance alot when you volunteer. Why are you doing it? If you are voluntering for Girl Scouts, are you doing it for your daughter? For the other girls? When it starts to take too much time away from you family is it really a benefit anymore? So many adversities, so many reasons to keep doing it. And when I first heard this song, I just sighed, and said "Thanks Sara. For getting it. For saying it."

Know My Heart

Inspired by Psalm 24:3-6, and Psalm 139:23 & 24.

Why do I pray-do I pray to say I prayed an hour? Why do I love-do I want you beholden to me? Why do I help-do I want to hear my name called out? Why do I sing? . Chorus: Search me and know my heart, oh God. See if there is any wrong thing in me. All I have ever really wanted are clean hands and a pure heart. . Why do I tithe-do I tithe so I can get a blessing? Why do I praise-do I praise to do the right thing? Why do I serve-do I serve so others will serve me? Why do I sing? . Chorus

I would love if every person who volunteers could hear this song before they choose to do it. "Why do I help-do I want to hear my name called out?" Some people truly volunteer to help because it makes them feel important. Which is in some ways, is justified. You SHOULD feel great when you help others. But it shouldn't be WHY you do it. Do you go to church because that's just 'what you do'? Do you help others to get the thanks?

I'll admit, sometimes I feel down when I don't get a thank you. But then I have to remind myself that that's not why I did it. This kind of goes along with this post. My self proclaimed mission is to make at least one person smile every day. Even if that person is me. ;) But I really don't do it because I want others to say "Gee, that Karin is really great", though of course, I certainly wouldn't mind hearing it. I do it because that's what I'd like every person I encounter to have a happy moment. And if I never get a thanks, well, that's okay. Because just knowing that I made someone smile is thanks enough for me. :)

"All I have ever really wanted are clean hands and a pure heart."

Halloween

2009-11-01T10:27:00.001-05:00

Yesterday morning Davis asked if we could go to the library. So we all piled into the car to go. He had asked a few times the last week or so, but for some reason or another we just weren't able to go. So he was pretty excited. After about 5 minutes, he had only picked out one book. Now, my kids read an hour before bed every night. Every. night. So they go through a lot of books. So when Davis had only picked out one book, I gave him kind of a hard time about it. What's the deal? Then he asked me if he could just go lay down on the couch in the corner. Uh. oh. :(

And when we got home I took his temperature. 101.1. Yupper. No trick or treating for you. Okay, I admit it, I thought about going with him to a trunk or treat (NOT our usual fair, frankly, we consider that sort of cheating here at the Schueller house, lol) or something. But he was really not doing well. And when I offered to bring him somewhere he said he didn't want to get anyone else sick. What an awesome kid! So I asked him what we could do to make his night better, and he asked for a movie. Done! We ran to the video store to pick one out. And he wore his costume there, just so he'd be able to show somebody the costume that night. But now what do we do for Haley??? It's not really fair to make her stay home just because Davis is sick. Aunt Susan to the rescue!!!

My sister Susan drive all of the way to my house (the opposite direction of where they actually trick or treat, which is by my mother's home 35 minutes away) just to pick up Haley and bring her trick or treating.

But the best part? Aunt Susan dressed up in that costume JUST so that she could trick or treat too!! She gave all of her candy to Davis so that he'd still have his own stash. :) Seriously. That's one awesome Aunt. She defintely has cool points right now. When he woke up this morning the first thing he said was "I am so glad that Aunt Susan did that for me."

When we were taking pictures, suddenly Davis appeared in costume. I thought he just wanted to get in the picture... but he told me later that he was going to try to go to a few houses with them. (He thought they were going in our neighborhood). It was so hard to watch him. He was so exhausted.. but yet so sad about the whole thing.

But that was all better when Aunt Susan showed up with the candy!

This was at 10 at night. That smile is so big I can't even explain it. This is my junk food boy. He LIVES for Halloween. No kidding. When she handed him a WHOLE candy bar, woah, that smile was true. :) Of course, if he hadn't been sick and tired, he would have been jumping up and down and I wouldn't have gotten the picture, lol.

And here's Haley with her Hershey's bar. She had an amazing night. This morning she came into my room and told me about the entire night. She was HIGH on sugar and happiness. It was awesome. She was talking fast, not making any sense and just purely joyful. Halloween was officially awesome. :)

Won it, Love it, Woulda Bought it

2009-10-31T10:37:00.003-04:00

A few posts ago I told you about a plug in candle warmer that I won. I promised you that I'd review the item... so here goes...

Buy one. Seriously. I love it.

And I'm not just saying that becuase I got mine for free. And because the girl that did the giveaway was AWESOME (which she was!!). I put one little square of wax in there, have used it every day this week, and it is still half full! My house smells YUMMY instantly! The best part? No flame... and it doesn't take up room on my counter. They have larger, tabletop versions, which I have heard great things about. But I really love that it doesn't take up any 'space'.

AND since there is no flame, there is no soot. For reals. It is awesome. Want one of your own? Go here! Tell Alissa I said hello! ;)

p.s. No one asked me to do the review... I just loved it so much I wanted to share with all of you!

Costumes and Pumpkins

2009-10-30T22:35:00.000-04:00

So last night, my sister calls me. Her son chose to be Harry Potter... and she had found the robe on Craigslist. Perfect right? Then the person with the robe kept pushing her off. Her kids had the flu. She couldn't get together. That was two weeks ago. So my sister waited. She got another email... but still no meeting time. So last night, she was in panic. She had the glasses... she had the scarf. But no robe. HP needs a robe! Aunt Karin to the rescue!! So we met at the local fabric store at 8pm and I went right home, nephew and sister in tow, to make a robe. I would in NO way say it was perfect, but it worked. ;)

Is he not a perfect Harry Potter? It was an interesting evening, quickly sewing it up... but it was worth it to see that smile. :) I had already finished up Haley's costume earlier in the evening. (Nothing like waiting until the last minute!) Then when my nephew left I decided that I couldn't spend more time on his costume than Davis'. Davis had chosen to re-use his Spongebob costume from a few years ago... but I decided I could add a few things to it. :) Hmm... what to do. What to do. The Krusty Krab hat? I think so!

Okay, I know. It's kind of lumpy. But have you ever seen the episode where spongebob stuffs the inspector in his hat? Just pretend that you're watching that episode. ;) The important thing is that Davis was surprised, and happy. I think he felt special to add something to his costume. :) This pic is of him at his school party. Then I went down to see Haley...

My sweet little 50's girl. :) Is she not just gorgeous? I'll admit... it was a little weird to go down to her classroom. She is in 6th grade, the oldest in the school. The parents that planned the party brought prizes, etc. They ran it, and when I was in there, the teacher didn't leave his computer. Before now, all of her teachers have been 'involved'. I just felt like she was suddenly all grown up. Next year is going to be tough. On me. lol

I also just had to share this. These were posted all over the place, and it just kind of made me giggle. When I was a kid, it was basically "Suck it up and go to school!" lol. Now it's, PLEASE don't get everybody else sick!!! Haley has already been absent like 5 times. :( Two of those were for dentist/doctor appointments, but still. Should be interesting to see how many absent days she has at the end of the year!

So then we had to run out to the car... in the rain. Here's Davis and I all wet from running to the car. Haley waited inside. Smart girl. ;)

So since it was raining, we decided to carve pumpkins tonight. For the first time, someone besides me helped gut one of them. WOOHOO!! Ross is not a fan of doing that part, so I always volunteer. Haley decided to give it a go...

This year they both carved it out themselves. I was pretty impressed! They drew their pictures and then did the rest. All I did was smile and take pictures. It was awesome.

Davis' masterpiece.

Such concentration.

I think they did a great job, don't you? I swear, they are getting so big. I know, I am such a cliche.

Just realized that i have no idea if I have candles for the inside...

Pumpkins

2009-10-30T06:32:00.002-04:00

Last night we finally went to go get pumpkins. Last year we were slackers... got the pumpkins and then never had the time to carve them. So tomorrow... it is ON, lol. If we don't Davis will never forgive me. He actually wanted to carve them when I got home tonight and I was a party pooper. ;)

Prepare for picture overload...

How stinkin' cute is he??

Okay, now he's cute... but trying to be a hoodlum? lol Please note is not a hang loose sign, more of a "I love you" sign only crooked?

Awww, now he's sweet again. Hugging his sister!

And now he's trying to suffocate her, lol.

There we go. :)

Haley look so grown up to me in this picture.

And Davis, well, he's such a goof. He wanted to make sure you knew THIS was the one he picked, lol.

Yup, that's still the same pumpkin. ;)

This cracked me up. "Quick Mom, take a picture! The pumpkin is my head!"

Since we were at Post Farms, home of the best pumpkin donuts EVER, we had to get some. :) Apparently Davis couldn't take a moment from the donut for a picture. Um, I don't really blame him, lol. They are YUMMY.

Still eating, lol. Haley's was long gone by this picture. ;)

And Davis took this one of Haley and I. I LOVE her smile here. I just wish it weren't all fuzzy. She is so beautiful it hurts. :)

Leafy Goodness

2009-10-29T10:52:00.043-04:00

I love Fall. It is, hands down, my favorite season. I love being able to wear a sweater and jeans and be comfortable. I love walking out into the crisp air. Love. it.

Last night my kids decided to go out and enjoy a beautiful fall evening, and play in the leaves. I was sitting at the computer, writing yesterday's post, and I hear Davis yell "Mom, you HAVE to see this". I'll admit it.. my first thought was "Uh oh."

Do you see anything in the leaves?

Oh, there she is!

Seriously, how she was breathing under there, well, I'm not sure, lol. But I just love that she is patient enough to wait for me to take a picture. ;)

And then of course, it was Davis' turn, so Haley threw on some leaves.

I kind of wish I had taken Haley's this direction too.... I just love it.

My plea to you...

2009-10-28T18:35:00.002-04:00

I am going to take a big ol' step onto my soap box. Bear with me. I'm really NOT preaching, though it may come off that way. I'm really just sending out a plea... because if you care enough to read my blog, I care enough about you to say this.

Do you wear a bike helmet? No? Do you make your kids, but don't feel 'it's necessary' for you? Do you not make your kids wear one?

Here's the deal... I realize that when 'we' were kids, we didn't have helmets. We didn't wear seat belts, we didn't grow up in a car seat. And we all made it, didn't we? But you know, sad as it is to think about, there were alot of young children who did NOT make it. They died in a car accident because they didn't have a seat belt on. Or maybe they had brain damage from falling off their bike. Or perhaps they died. I have a relative that was a professor at a university. He often rode his bike to work when the weather was nice. One day he swerved to miss a student... and the next day they were planning a funeral. He fell, hit is head and died. My mom used to tell me that story when I didn't want to wear my helmet. In high school? Come ON, Mom! ;)

When my husband started cycling a year or two ago, I met so many people that shared my love of the helmet. It's a must have. Actually, here in Michigan, you are legally supposed to wear one when riding in the street.

Lately I have noticed a lot of careless cyclists and it makes me sad. Truly. The other night, I ran to the store after dark. I passed a cyclist on a relatively busy road (speed limit 45) and she had one little blinkie (flashing light) on her bike. She wore no helmet, and no blinkie on herself. Frankly, I barely saw her. It terrified me. What if I had hit and killed her? Or even just hurt her? Here is my plea to you. If you are a non-helmet wearer... think of me. Think of the person driving the car. Think if that person will recover from the guilt, if they end up hitting you, becuase you didn't have your helmet and blinkie on. On the same note... I saw a woman today with a toddler on her handlebars. She even had the seat on the back of her bike, but chose not to use it. One slip, and her child could die from that height. One swerve, one pebble, one pothole. And he would be gone. The entire family did not have helmets on.

I am not saying this to say that I judge that mother. I don't. We all have 'our things'. This is one of them for me. She has the choice to use it, or choose not to, and so do you. My plea is that you'll choose to use the helmet. Pretty please? I don't want to lose even one of you. ;)

Reaping what we sow...

2009-10-27T19:07:00.015-04:00

One of my favorite singers is Sara Groves. If you don't own one of her cd's, you are missing out. If you've never seen her perform you are REALLY missing out.... because as much as I love the cd's... they are nothing compared to seeing/hearing her perform live. I love that she makes me think. She writes about everyday things from a Christian perspective. Oh sure, there are praise songs...but there are also love songs for her husband (and not those high school type love songs... real, true, LOVE songs) and songs for her children (which, frankly, just make me cry, because she writes what all mothers are feeling) and songs about the journey of life.

I can't even tell you a favorite album. I own all of them. And each one is a different journey in itself. But recently Haley and I were hanging out in the living room. She was doing a puzzle (I swear, this girl can do puzzles that scare the heck out of me, lol) and I was cutting fabric. So I asked her to go pick a CD and we could put it in and listen together. She chose the Conversations album. First of all... that is just awesome. She didn't pick the Jonas Brothers, or the High School Musical soundtrack. She chose Sara Groves.

Anyway, it has been a while since I've listened to this album... she has made a few since then, and the new ones took their spot in my cd player. But as soon as "Generations" came on, I knew that I was meant to hear this song again. If you don't know the words or the song... well, here you go.

Generations

Inspired by Deuteronomy 11:26-28.

I can taste the fruit of Eve. I'm aware of sickness death and disease. The results of her choices were vast. Eve was the first but she wasn't the last. If I were honest with myself, had I been standing at that tree, my mouth and my hands would be covered with fruit. Things I shouldn't know and things I shouldn't see. . Chorus: Remind me of this with every decision. Generations will reap what I sow. I can pass on a curse or a blessing to those I will never know. . She taught us to fear the serpent. I'm learning to fear myself and all of the things I am capable of in my search for acceptance, wisdom and wealth. To say the devil made me do it is a cop-out and a lie. The devil can't make me do anything when I'm calling on Jesus Christ. . Chorus . To my great-great-great-granddaughter, live in peace. To my great-great-great-grandson, live in peace. To my great-great-great granddaughter, live in peace. To my great-great-great-grandson, live in peace, live in peace. . Chorus . Eve was the first but she wasn't the last.

Bear with me. I know this has been a long post. But really think about those words. Generations will reap what I sow. I can pass on a curse or a blessing to those I will never know. She is talking about her grandchildren, and their grandchildren. And those that they will affect. When you smile, when you live life to the fullest, and you teach whatever it is that you CHOOSE to teach your children... that will have an affect on future generations. Do you want them to remember you as a martyr? Do you want them to you remember you as someone that smiled, or one that was never satisfied? Do you want them to be able to go out into the world and do their will... or do you want them to depend on you forever? Sometimes I need to be reminded of this... I'm not "just a mom". I'm helping to sculpt the people that my children will be as they grow older. And the type of parents they will someday be if they choose to have children. What an amazing, amazing job I have. :)

Just one more thing...

2009-10-26T19:06:00.000-04:00

So I'm pretty sure I was on the radio this morning. Well, not me, exactly, but I think the writer must know me. It went something like this...

"We all know someone that can never let the conversation go. It's always, just one more thing... oh, okay, i know you have to run, but let me just tell you this one last story... etc. etc. Well, that person... is me. Good thing I have unlimited minutes and voicemail!!"

LMBO. Seriously. I was cracking up. I don't know how to explain her voice inflection, but she was this mid-western mom sounding lady with a perky tone. Only, it starts out like she MUST be talking about her neighbor. Only, no, she admits it, she is that person. Well foks, I am here to admit it. I am a yapper. Yakkity yak yak yak. If you have somewhere to be... don't call me. Want to get around the WHOLE craft show? You really should plan ahead and come early... or come and see me last, lol. ;)

On the plus side... my glass if pretty much always half full. So you will always get a smile, and a perky story. And who doesn't love that, right? ;)

Sewing...

2009-10-21T08:39:00.000-04:00

So, I don't know if you've taken a look on the right side of the page... but I have a few craft shows coming up. Seriously. As in... 7 in one month, lol. Yeah, I know, I don't know what I was thinking either, lol. ;)

So if I'm not around, forgive me. I've attached myself to my sewing chair and feel compelled to stay there. :)

Yummy Fall Treat

2009-10-17T09:27:00.001-04:00

This time of year I start wanting something WARM to drink. And when I have a cold, I don't like to drink milk, so coffee (or at least the way I drink it, lol) is out. So what to do? Tea? Well... tea is okay. But I can only drink so much of it. So I make myself a caramel apple treat. :)

Take a mug and fill it with apple juice. Yup, just plain ol' apple juice. And put it in the microwave. Yes, the microwave. Well, yeah, you can put it on the stove if you want, but remember, I usually make this for myself when I want to feel better, not have to do more dishes, lol. I usually put mine in for a minute and a half to two minutes. :)

Add caramel syrup. How much? Geez.... you are acting like this is a real recipe or something. ;) I don't know... squeeze and count to 3. ;)

If you don't have a cold and want to feel extra spiffy, like it's a real drink from one of those wonderful coffee houses I dream about every night... add some whip cream and some more caramel syrup. ;)

Mmmm... I'm having one right now. It is so yummy. AND made with things you might just already have in your house! Oh, and you should use your favorite mug like I did. :) It just makes me smile. I love taking a drink and being reminded that "Everything happens for a reason". Because sometimes that's just comforting. :) Have a cozy day!

New Website

2009-10-16T19:37:00.001-04:00

I finally took the plunge and purchased the domain for http://www.awindowintowhimsy.com/ ! Eventually (after a great show this fall, maybe??) I'd like to pay someone to design it for me... but for now I am designing it myself. Anyone want to take a looksie and give me some tips? It is still a work in progress... so be gentle, lol. ;) But I'd love to hear what you think!

For Reals???

2009-10-13T15:06:00.000-04:00

Shut up! No way! For REALS?? I WON!!! Wooohooooo!!!!!

Okay, sorry, had to get that out. The other day I was having kind of an icky day. No real reason.... just feeling down and out. So I turned to my bloggy world for some perspective. :) As I went through my RSS feed I found my name in link form. What does that mean?? That means that I won a giveaway!! Woot! Suddenly I was smiling. :)

Some of you may know of The Vintage Pearl. Amazing jewelry... inspring blog... amazingly gorgeous children. :) I love reading her blog because it just makes me feel good, and helps keep me inspired. So when she does a giveaway, you know it's going to be a good one! And this time she partnered up with Alissa, who sells Scentsy. Never heard of it? Me neither! lol But when I took a look I was pretty excited! They have candle warmers, which I have seen before, and love... but they also have PLUG INS!!! Woot! How perfect for a smaller home, or for a room you don't want to have something out on the counter/table. So I picked the turquoise one... because, well, frankly, that is just the best color in the world. ;)

And just in time for those stuffy winter months. I got one scent WITH my giveaway (can you even believe that!?) and then I couldn't decide so I ordered one too. ;) I'll let you know what I think when it gets here. :)

More Friends....

2009-10-12T09:03:00.000-04:00

Yesterday's post really made me think about all of the amazing friends I have. Friends that won't mind that I wrote a whole post about Stacie, and not one word about them. :) I feel very lucky to have the friends that I have. I know that there are people in my life that would drop everything if I needed them to. I have had so many moments in the last year that I felt so HONORED to have met someone. This business has brought me so many amazing people... and for that I am so grateful! And I just wanted to say so. :) You know who you are...

Make new friends...

2009-10-11T14:46:00.004-04:00

Make new friends, but keep the old... one is silver and the other gold. :) Okay... sorry... I was a Girl Scout Leader for years... when I think about making friends, that song pops into my mind! ;)

But you know? It really is true. There is nothing like talking to an old friend, who knows you so well, and for so long. My friend Joie is this for me. No matter how many miles are between us, or years it has been since we have seen each other, she knew me 'when'. She will always have a special place in my heart. Then there are friends I've met since graduating high school... the ones that have been around a while, like my friend Kerri. I love her children like they are my own. Truly. But every once in a while, you have the fortune of meeting a new friend... and it's like fate has stepped in. Well.... that's Stacie. :)

One day at Market this gorgeous girl walks into my booth with her even more adorable daughter. And the hairbow this girl has on is freaking AWESOME. It is shaped like a butterfly, and like nothing I've seen before. So of course I had to ask where she got it right? She MADE IT????!!! So what do I do? Convince her to come to the market and come selling with me on Thursdays, lol. I'm like a stalker or something! lol Anyway, it was fate... because the more we talk, the more we realize we were meant to know each other. :)

This weekend we did our first real craft show together, and we had a great time. :) Hairbows and purses...something for mom AND daughter! ;)

I'm really hoping we can share more booths in the coming months... she is a RIOT! She's bubbly, and talkative just like me. :) Which we all know is the best combo, right? lol And... if there were a stranger in front of her in the rain, she'd wait for them. :)

Is it really so difficult???

2009-10-09T14:45:00.003-04:00

So... I'm going to take a little step onto the proverbial soap box. Forgive me. I hope you will agree with me on this one. Is it REALLY so hard to be nice to strangers??? I totally get that sometimes it's difficult to be nice to your crazy neighbor, or your smothering grandmother or mother, or whoever. I get it. Sometimes being nice can be hard. But is it so hard to be nice to that stranger walking into the store?

Today it is raining here in West Michigan. Frankly, the weather has been pretty *&$#^@ for the last week, lol. So I get it. Everyone is grumpy. But here's the thing... when there is a person walking in the rain, the person in a nice, dry, heated vehicle should wait. Now this did NOT happen to me. I was in my nice, dry, heated vehicle and I waited... while another car shot around me and splashed the pedestrian with rain water. Seriously?

Then I parked and went inside. I held the door for a couple of people. Not one thank you. It's okay... I mean, I do it because it's the right thing to do... not to make someone say thank you, right?

Then I said thank you to someone in the store and got "the look" like I was bothering the person. SERIOUSLY???

So at this point I'm thinking, man I really hope the sun comes out before winter. I mean, if people are acting like this NOW what will happen when it starts to... well.. the s word. I can't bring myself to say it folks, lol. And I got out to my car, pack up my groceries in the rain, and drove out of the parking lot. When I was got onto the main, busy road, there were people waiting to come out of a crowded parking lot. We were at a red light, so I stopped short and let a few people out when the light turned green. Not a single person waved, gestured or smiled a thank you.

You know, it's really hard to be nice when people aren't nice back. :( But I'm still trying. Honestly, I STRIVE to be that person that smiles and makes someone's day. I know sometimes I'm annoyingly perky (though I hate that word, I prefer energetic). But wouldn't you rather annoy someone with your happiness than bring down someone's good mood? So that is my challenge to you today. Be the person that smiles at a stranger. Smile at the homeless person sitting on the street instead of looking away. Open the door for someone that doesn't expect it. Smile at the cash register attendant and say thank you, even when you had to wait in line for 20 minutes. Because you never know what that smile will do. :)

Fulton Market

2009-10-05T09:14:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was the last day of Fulton Market. For those of you that don't know... Fulton Market (the location) has been around for MANY years. My mother in law used to go to the Farmer's Market there when she was a little girl. It is an amazing little gem in Grand Rapids. It is an open air market where community just oozes with happiness. :) And about 5 years ago, a brilliant few ladies decided to start an Artisan Market there on Sundays. BRILLIANT!

When I heard about it last summer, I just HAD to try it. So I signed up to vend there one afternoon... and then went back a few weeks later. It is funny... I think most weeks the vendors (all 8 of us) outnumbered the customers. But man did we have a great time! And then Jennifer Ackerman-Haywood (of Craftsanity... the link is on the left!) wrote an article in the Grand Rapids Press. And one of the girls from the board put some information on Facebook... and the first day, we had a turnout bigger than some craft shows I've done. Big craft shows, lol! And this year I was there EVERY week. I didn't miss a single Sunday. And I loved every minute. I can't describe to you the amazing atmosphere that IS the Fulton Market. It just oozes creativity. And comradery. And just FUN! So today felt a little like the last day of summer camp. Lots of "See you next year!" and "I'll miss you!" were heard around the site. And I'll admit it... I will be happy to have my Sundays back, and my kids will rejoice when I unpack some of the stuff I've just kept in car permanently this summer (that I use for market). But really? I will miss my friends. So here are a few pics of my favorite girls...

Sarah R. She is my girl! We love to try to get booths right next to each other and chat the day away. Seriously. lol

Sarah C. LOVE this girl. She can make me smile any day of the week! And since we do a market together every Thursday too... it's a good thing we like each other, lol. Dee is another one that does both markets, and she is a sweetie too... but I had a brainfart and forgot to take our picture, lol.
And Merrie. I admit... I had a hard time posting this picture, lol. I mean.... I am such. a. dork. But she just cracks me up! She is always sticking her tongue out at me... giving me a hard time, etc. And you know I give it right back to her! lol Anyway, this picture just defines Market for me. JUST FUN! I'll miss it... but maybe next year (if you are local) you could come and see me there! ;)

Back to Business

2009-10-04T20:59:00.006-04:00

Yesterday I did a little show to benefit the Alzeimer's Association. Ross' Grandmother was diagnosed with the disease when we were first married, and died just a few years later. I feel sad that I never really got to know her that well, since I think we would have gotten along. She was a mad pie maker, like myself. ;) Anyway, it was nice to do a show to benefit something dear to my heart. AND check out what was on my table when I arrived! I mean, a THANK YOU for participating? NICE!

My set up... I honestly couldn't believe I fit this all in such a small spot. Man, I am getting good at that, lol. ;)

I ended up doing fairly well at the show... thanks to some WONDERFUL vendors! :) I think we were the only people in Michigan NOT watching the Michigan/Michigan State game... and therefore, the crowd was, well... non existent, lol. Luckily some of the other vendors did some Christmas shopping. I also did some AWESOME bartering. Gotta love getting your favorite make-up in trade for a purse! Woot!

So I was in a pretty good mood when it was time to pack up. Life was good. I made some cash... I did some trades. When I went to get the car and move it toward the door, well... my smile vanished. I had left my lights on. All. Day. Long. Do you think anyone has jumper cables in their car? Noper. So I called my best friend and her hubby, who live blocks away... forgetting that the game was still on. I might not get a Christmas present this year, lol. I called JUST as the game went into overtime. Luckily, we found some jumper cables and they didn't have to come to the rescue. ;) But a note to self... never call when the game is on! ;)

In. Love. Seriously.

2009-09-28T17:31:00.004-04:00

I am in love. Madly, ridiculously, giddy in love. You'd think I was talking about a guy... you know... my husband or something. But no.. not today. I love Meadowsweet. Sandy Henderson has done it again.... Do you see that yummy brown? with that green? I have never loved orange more in my life..

I mean... seriously... do you see that color? I NEED a quilt in this. Need. I know... it's not a food type need... or an air type need. But it's close. And I won't be able to get one bit until December. Maybe that's the universe telling me to start saving NOW. Mom, if you read this. This is what I want for Christmas. :)

Uh oh

2009-09-23T09:39:00.002-04:00

So... suddenly I don't want to sew any purses, or lanyards, or anything I've ever made. All I want to do is make more mixed media pieces, lol. I might have a problem! ;) Nonetheless... I posted some up on Etsy last night... then made 9 more. :)

So now I'm deciding on what to make next...I can only make so many birds and trees, right? So help me decide what to do next. Owls? Houses? Any "boy ideas"? I made one car tonight... then got stuck. Any ideas/requests would be very appreciated!

On another note...my son is hilarious. The other day I was trying to think of a word, and he jokingly said 'nolly' in the place of the word I was trying to think of. So I asked him what a nolly is... and he proceeded, without skipping a beat, to explain what a nolly was. And I mean, there wasn't even a milisecond of delay before he answered. He had me wondering if I needed to go home and google this term I'd never heard... then at the end of his explanation... as though it was part of the explanation... he said "But that's not really true.. I made it all up." OMG! SERIOUSLY? He totally had me fooled. Then did it again two days later with something else, lol. I am in TROUBLE when he hits high school, lol... maybe earlier...

I was feeling creative...

2009-09-22T06:55:00.004-04:00

About a year ago, I made Haley this painting for her room...

Since then, I've been trying to find a way to do some artwork to hang on the wall that wasn't on a canvas. I love the canvas, but it is both fragile and expensive. I wanted to be able to offer it to my customers at shows... and hauling canvas around just seemed like a bad, and expensive idea, lol. So then I started thinking about using pieces of wood... but the sanding and priming just made it seem more like work, and less like creating. And then a light bulb moment happened. HELLO?? Why don't I do something like my family tree... only a little more whimsical?

And my mixed media line was born...

I thought those two looked great as a pair. :)
There are some pieces that I LOVE, and some I think are cute but not amazing. I have to remind myself that sometimes the ones I am critical of, might be someone else's favorite piece! For example, at market on Sunday, when they made thier debut... the first piece that was purchased... was the one that I was nervous about, lol....

See the beak? On the baby bird... it's just...well... WONKY! lol I think on some of the others, I was trying to make it skewed... so when I didn't MEAN to... it seemed like a mistake. And yet... she sold first... :)

Sometimes it's hard to remind myself that personally... when I am shopping, I actually love the 'imperfect' pieces. I think maybe it is because they are more human somehow? Less mass produced... more loved. But I tend to forget that when I am creating, and tend to be more critical. What about you? Do you love the imperfect?

I heart school supplies

2009-09-21T10:51:00.001-04:00

I big fluffy, pink, fru-fru heart school supplies. It is an unhealthy obsession. When I start to see school supplies appear at Target... my heart starts to flutter. This year I told Haley she could pick whatever folders she wanted. I wanted her to be able to enjoy the task that I looked forward to every year. Spread the joy. She looked at me and asked me to pick them out. Wow. Seriously? Apparently she doesn't share my joy, lol. So I turned to Davis. His super organized personality must call out for school supplies, right? (Last year at the school Open House I picked up an eraser in his desk to admire it, and was scolded for returning it 2 inches from its original location, lol). Alas, he wanted the most simple notebooks he could find. I was to choose the rest. Now don't get me wrong. I was honored to be chosen for such a task. I just can't understand their lack of enthusiasm to join me. :) Is anyone else with me on this? :)

So anyway, I got the kiddos their supplies. I packed thier bags. I filled Haley's beautiful pink Trapper Keeper. Yes, they DO still call them that, thank you very much! :) I was in heaven. And then they went to school.... and took all of the new boxes of crayons and pencils with them. Boy, I love new crayons. Sharp, pointy, beautiful crayons. Oh, sorry, where was I? ;)

The second night, Davis had homework and needed a pencil. No problem! I have boxes stashed away. :) And so he went and used the powered pencil sharpener Haley had brought home from school a while ago. (I have no idea why one would get rid of such a device, but Haley somehow snagged one from a teacher). I had forgotten about it. It is such a wonderful little thing. It sharpens the pencil to a perfect point... and there is not evidence! No icky little shavings. It is like a gift from the school supplies gods. And so I started to sharpen one pencil. And then I thought... why not fill the container with new pens and sharp pencils for when the kids do homework?

And I sharpened so many, that it started to moan at me. It stopped turning. It needed a rest. And that's when I realized that I had a problem. I need an intervention, lol.

Garfield Park Craft Show

2009-09-20T22:27:00.003-04:00

Last week Tuesday, my friend Sarah called and wondered if I wanted to do this craft show with her on Saturday. We had talked about doing it... then decided not to...but kept going back to it. So what the heck, right? "Oh wait, I have nothing made." I hadn't sewn any new items for my shop in weeks. Like, over a month, weeks, lol. So she told me to get sewing... and she sent in the app.

Just so we are clear, that was the first day of school. Yeah. So I sewed that night... and the next day. Then I had market on Thursday... and sewed that night. Friday was spent sewing as well... surprise surprise. But for my efforts, I managed to make 38 purses/totes, 21 lanyards, 25 key fobs, 85 tissue cozies, and 20 dog collars. Phew.

And I had one stocked booth...

And boy did we luck out. The person in charge of the show had put us in the wrong booth that morning, and we had to move, leaving only about an hour to set up (not so lucky). But the spot next to us in our new location was empty... and she let us expand! WOOT!

My friend Sarah, also known as "The Hippie Chick", makes candles, hand forged jewelry (she forms all of the pieces herself!!) and journals out of reclaimed books. Love her!

In this picture you can see the amazing journals that her hubby creates. He takes books that are damaged (written in, missing pages, etc.) and takes the binding off... inserts blank, recycled paper, and creates the journal with the book top and back.

Overall it was a fun day! There wasn't as much traffic as last year... but still a great day. Sarah and I had a blast. :)

School is IN!

2009-09-19T09:59:00.001-04:00

Summer was both super short, and super long this year. I know, it doesn't make sense! But that's how I feel. :)

The weeks leading up to the first day of school, I thought I had my kids figured out. When I asked them if they were ready for the first day, or if they were getting excited, they would both reply that they weren't exactly excited, lol. They were both looking forward to seeing friends, but not enough to be excited about homework!

But secretly.... I thought that Haley was nervous, and that Davis was secretly looking forward to it, but didn't want to admit it. Boy was I wrong! The first day of school, Haley was one cool cucumber... and Davis was nervous.

I like to drop the kiddos off the first day instead of letting them take the bus, because I like to get the picture in front of the sign. I told myself years ago that I would only do it until 6th grade (this is my last one with Haley, *tear*) and that I would bring them early enough that it wasn't embarrassing, lol.

So we got there, took pics and Haley offered to show Davis which door he was supposed to line up at. He shook his head, and gave me a look. Then he asked me to stay. No problem! (Phew, my kids are not embarrassed of me yet, and they want me around!) So I walked him over, and asked him what he was nervous about. He had no idea. :) That's my kid. :) Anything new is scary. I feel the same way. Change is hard. But then friends started coming up and saying hello... excited to see him, and things got better. And he smiled. :) And when I picked them up that afternoon, both were all smiles, and loved their teachers. SCORE! :)

Here Davis is before school, sporting the sign that I made when Haley started Preschool. That was seven years ago. Sigh.

He's still feeling pretty good at this point. He's cool. He can handle it. :)

And then Haley's turn. I need to find the picture of her when she was going to preschool and scan it. Seriously. I need you to share my anxiety over the difference, lol.

At this time I would like you to note that both Haley's fingernails and toenails are painted an awesome sparkly pink. :)

And now you can see Haley at school... cool as a cucumber and wondering why I am still taking pictures....

And Davis. Poor guy. This is what he looks like when he is STRESSED. You might not be able to see it, but I can, lol.

And yet, he lived through it. :) He loves his teacher.... and the kid he shares his locker with. And was all smiles all week.

And get this... Haley has had her homework done before getting home every night. They have free choice time and she has been doing her homework then... with spare time to read at the end. HIGH FIVES ALL AROUND. This has never happened. Seriously. This girl has spent 5 hours doing 15 minutes of homework before. Can I get an AMEN?

Matt's Birthday

2009-09-18T09:42:00.004-04:00

Somehow, in my family, we have managed to 'lump' birthdays, lol. Matt and Grandma are right next to each other, Amy and Nana, Tom and Lauren, Davis and Steven. Well... that means that 1 week after my mom's party, we got together for Matt's (my nephew).

This kid has a giggle like no other. It is contagious. You can't HELP but giggle with him! He LOVES anything Spongebob, and also wanted a Jack in the Box. Aunt Suzy, as usual, DELIVERED! :)

How about that smile? I mean, really... you are smiling right, aren't you? ;)

My beautiful sissy carrying out the cake, with 5 candles!

Lauren and Haley being girly. :) I love that as they get older, they have more in common. :)

More spongebob...

And here we have Davis. This is what he looked like most of the night. Uncle Tom wondered what was wrong. Why is Davis so quiet? Well... he is coveting Matthew's gift, Tom, lol. I was very proud of him... he never said a word. Never even asked to open it. Spongebob Legos. I mean, if that isn't THE gift for Davis, there isn't one, lol. :) And he just stayed quiet and STUDIED that box.

So it's a kind of a good thing he had that tooth problem. Because when you have to have the teeth removed via a dentist, the Tooth Fairy feels bad for you... and gives you a little bonus. He got $10!! And so I caved, and we went and bought it... and he did odd jobs for me around the house to earn the other $10. Yeah, I know. I'm weak.

I was right, and he was wrong...

2009-09-17T09:24:00.005-04:00

Davis admits it. I was right, and he was wrong. All of those times when I said he needed to brush his teeth, or brush his teeth AGAIN, or brush them BETTER... well... I was right.

Want to know what happens when you have inherited your mother's bad teeth? (Haley lucked out and inherited Ross'). Even when you brush every day... you get cavities. Then, when your parents done have insurance and put off your cleanings... well... then they get worse. And you have to have two teeth pulled. :( And you look like this...

I know. I felt BAD. Like a failure as a parent. I cried. But even the dentist said that I was NOT alone... and then he turned to DAVIS and told him to brush. Phew. But I still felt guilt. Our dentist couldn't set the time aside to pull them that day... so we were on a waiting list. Then I finally found a place that would accept Medicaid (the kids are on medicaid while my husband is out of work) and could get him in. So we went, and they were able to pull it that day. WOOT! They were fantastic, and he was a trooper. There was a 4 year old girl next door that was screaming the entire time we waited. It was brutal. Someone came in 3 times to see if he was okay listening to it. As long as I kept his mind busy, he was great. See? My chatty nature comes in handy sometimes! Then it was our turn, and he wanted to hold my hand the whole time, and I needed to "man up" and act like it was no big deal. Um, I had to WATCH THEM YANK THE TEETH. I am not one who passes out. I hate needles... A LOT... but I can handle it. I'm just not happy about it. This was the first time I can remember feeling nervous that I might lose it.

The dentist told him to wiggle his fingers and close his eyes. They pulled the first one... and he said, "Wait, you already took it out? That didn't hurt." So brave. Then it was time for the bad one. The one that had made his face swollen with infection. (Okay, I'll admit that I am feeling parent guilt, just writing that, so please don't scold me, I won't be able to take it!) And it hurt. And he was crying, and they were having a bit of trouble getting it out. And I'm trying to say "Wiggle you fingers and Close your Eyes" and it comes out "wiggle your eyes... no, wiggle your... pause....um, fingers, yeah, um, close your eyes". This is me, trying not freak out while they rip out his tooth. He squealed, but did SO WELL. In the end, I think he handled it mentally better than I did.

They told us that in a half hour he should have ice cream. Somehow Frosty Treat always makes it better. :)

Making up lost posts....

2009-09-16T21:08:00.004-04:00

So lately I've had a lot of posts going around in my head, and no time to write them. :( So tonight I am turning away those trying to chat with me on Facebook (ahem, you know who you are, lol) and writing some posts! So the next few days will be make up days... and you may notice that these things happened last week, or the week before. Bear with me. :)

A few weeks ago, my mom turned 59. Not a significant number, but a great party none the less. :) My sister Amy had everyone over to celebrate. (BTW, I got my mom the COOLEST birdhouse made from an old book... do you think I got a picture of it? :( Of course not.)

My sister Susan was in charge of dessert. She got a little carried away. :) She made a chocolate cake with chocolate frosting, but then made cupcakes that were white cake (since neither of the younger girls really like chocolate) and then made a pecan upside down cake for my mom. WOW. So that means everyone gets extra dessert right? Well.. that's Aunt Amy's idea, lol. If you know my sister Amy at all... you know that her house is the house my kids go to for a TREAT. So when Davis didn't want to try the pecan concoction, Amy told him he could have two cupcakes. Then she tried to get me to let him have a third. They love Aunt Amy. :)

So the boys had cupcakes made my Aunt Susan...

And the girls played with silly dress up clothes...

And Grandma was silly too...

And the cousins had a great time. :)

Wow

2009-09-07T17:51:00.004-04:00

School starts tomorrow. Boy, that was a quick summer. We don't usually DO much during the summer, just lazy days around the pool. But this year we had markets 2 days a week... so it felt like we were always racing somewhere. I'm both excited and sad that it's over. The kids going back to school means that I will soon be finding a 'real job', perhaps full time. I've always wanted to stay home with them, be here when they got home from school, etc. This should be an interesting challenge. ;) On the other hand, I'm excited to see them go back to school, and know that the schedule always improves their mood..whether they would admit it or not. :) A schedule is good for me, too. I joined a gym a week ago and haven't gone yet, because I hadn't 'set a time'. Well, tomorrow after I drop the kiddos off to school, I am heading straight there. Pray for me, lol.

Tomorrow Haley starts 6th grade, and Davis starts 3rd. They are getting so big. :) This is Haley's last year in elementary school and I am determined to take note of as much as I can. I know that next year will be an even bigger adjustment than this year. :)

Birthday Girls

2009-09-02T08:55:00.003-04:00

A couple of weeks ago I had the honor of going to a birthday party for two wonderful little girls. Their mom is my best friend. :) And she rocks. No, really, she does. She doesn't even read my blog, so I'm not just sucking up, lol. Anyway, these girls are close to my heart, I love them like they are my own. Truly. And one's birthday is close to the 4th of July, and one's is close to Labor Day... tough weekends for birthday parties. So Kerri (mom) decided to do a combined party right between the two...

She had everything. There were games. There was a clown.

There was face painting. (That was my job... the kids didn't even care that I can't paint, lol)

The theme was a Carnival... it was amazing. They even had a bounce house!! Of course, Mom and Aunt Jayna had to try it out! Two gorgeous sisters. :)

And according to my kids they have the coolest swingset ever! lol

Birthday girl number one (who requested her artwork to be her new age)...

Birthday girl number 2 (who of course had to be like her big sister)...

And the big brother who kind of cheated and requested a six... even though his birthday isn't until November. ;)

And here are the birthday girls with their Grandpa, blowing out the candles on the cake... and the shirts I made them for the party. :) Alexandra's says "2" and Olivia's says "4". I'm thinking come November I'm going to be making one that says "6" for Thomas. ;)

Cousins

2009-09-01T16:41:00.004-04:00

Every year for my mother in law's birthday I take pictures of her 3 grandkids. She loves having them all together in one shot. :) This year I was a little late... but still got them done. ;)

This one's my favorite. :)

I like this one too... just wish I had done a better job paying attention to lighting. :)

My son looks far too old in this picture. :( I have a feeling one day I'll look at his senior picture and remember this picture. ;)

Did you wonder???

2009-08-29T19:29:00.004-04:00

Did you start to wonder if I was coming back? lol Twice this week I got scolded by my big sister for my lack of blog posts. I know... she was right. lol

A few things happened. Around the same time as the tire incident... my laptop monitor quit. It gave up. It conceded, after months of flickering in and out. So I now have a set up of a MASSIVE, old school monitor on my desk NEXT to my sewing machine (poor girl, she's not used to sharing) with it plugged into my laptop. It doesn't work well. It's a pain in the tush. Hence, less computer time. Computer time is usually a DE-stresser, but now it has become a little more cumbersome. :(

Another thing happened... I read a few books. I know, crazy thought, huh? lol Here's the thing. Reading is amazing. I love it when I can lose myself in a good book. Or even a decent book, lol. But there are pros and cons.

Cons:
-Less computer time, ;)
-I get nothing done. Seriously. Because I am obsessive and have to finish the book. I'm the same way with a movie. Even if it is AWFUL, I have to watch it to the end. I know. I have issues, lol. But that means less sewing, less cleaning, and a messy house. At least when I watch a movie I can do something else at the same time, like cut fabric. :)

Pros:

- Less computer time, ;)
- I get nothing done. But in a good way. I have ME time.
- I can't eat and read. I know, some people do it, but not me. I am engrossed. I don't even think of food when I'm reading. I lost 3 pounds in the last two weeks, lol!
- My kids see me read and know that it is a fun thing to do. :)

As you can see the pros outway the cons... but I think I need a break. I haven't sewn anything significant in weeks. My booth at market tomorrow is going to be pretty scarce. ;)

Okay, off to read the last few chapters...

Phenomenon

2009-08-15T21:33:00.003-04:00

I confess. I have a problem with phenomenons. I don't like to go 'with the crowd'. I don't know if it's on principle, or what. When I was little I hated the New Kids on the Block. Yes I know I just dated myself, lol. I didn't actually hate their music... but the thought of thousands/millions of girls screaming over them irritated the heck out of me. I don't like Tiger Woods. Okay, him I don't like because he yells swear words when he doesn't hit a shot well... and golf is one of the few sports that kids have always been able to watch without that crap... oh, and he throws golf clubs, and I have issues with it. But I digress... I don't like phenomenons.

So when all of this Twilight nonsense started, I ignored it. Many of my friends have read the books, and ALL have enjoyed them. But the hype kept me away. Again, the drooling over Edward Cullen annoyed me. I mean, seriously... he's a character in a book, right? So I stayed away. Then tonight I gave in. I rented the movie. I'll admit it. I was pleasantly surprised...which irriated me a little bit, lol. It was not at all what I thought it was going to be. And then... well... I went and bought the book. Darn it. I'll let you know how it goes...

Fearless

2009-08-08T10:15:00.002-04:00

I bought a Taylor Swift album today. I know, you're thinking, Karin, aren't you in your 30's? Yup. I am. But sometimes I just like a catchy tune. When I would hear "Love Story" on the radio, it just begged to be turned up. And Haley liked it... so I thought it would be a great pick for in the car.

I am amazed by this girl. She has a lot of depth. Seriously. She's gorgeous... but she's smart too. Here's an excerpt from the dedication on the jacket...

"To me, Fearless is living in spite of those things that scare you to death. Fearless is falling madly in love again, even though you've been hurt before. Fearless is walking into your freshmen year of high school at fifteen. Fearless is getting back up and fighting for what you want over and over again.... even though every time you've tried before, you've lost. It's fearless to have faith that someday things will change. Fearless is having the courage to say goodbye to someone who only hurts you, even if you can't breathe without them. I think it's fearless to fall for your best friend, even though he's in love with someone else. And when someone apologizes to you enough times for things they'll never stop doing, I think it's fearless to stop believing in them. It's fearless to say "you're not sorry" and walk away. I think loving someone despite what people think is fearless. I think allowing yourself to cry on the bathroom floor is fearless. Letting go is fearless. Then moving on and being alright, that's fearless too. But no matter what love throws at you, you have to believe in it. You have to believe in love stories and prince charmings and happily ever after. That's why I write these songs. Because I think love is fearless."

Wow. She's only 19? Because right now, in my life, that was what I needed to hear. I needed to know that other people hurt too. And that other people struggle through, and make it out the other side. I'm not just talking about the love in a marriage. I'm talking about friends, and parents, and the person you meet on the street. Loving a friend so much that you'll listen to them pour their heart out for an hour, and just listen, and never regret that you didn't get those dishes washed, or that craft time in you were craving. Because you love her. I'm talking about loving that person at the store, as a person enough to let them go first when you have a cart full, and they have 2 items in their hand. But I'm also talking about loving yourself enough to distance yourself from people in your life that do nothing but hurt you. I have had a lot of hurt over the last 31 years. I've also seen a lot of joy. The hard part is remembering the joy, and remembering that the hurt has made me the person I am. And that I am a GOOD person. And all I can do is love those around me. Even when it doesn't always work out the way I planned. I want to be Fearless. I want to face that change and meet it head on. I want to love, and cherish every minute. Want to join me?

I was not meant to change a flat tire....

2009-08-07T17:34:00.008-04:00

Are you ready for a story? Go get a cup of coffee, then come back for a nice, long, but funny story from your friend. ;)

A few weeks ago, I went and got three used tires for my van. One was doing well... but two were BALD (and I mean, the guy just stared at me like HOLY CRAP when I showed them to him) and one had a hole in it that wouldn't hold a plug (again). So I'll be honest... after I went there I didn't really spend much time looking at my tires... because they were all fixed and wonderful right? Well.. apparently one had a slow leak. So on Wednesday, when I went out to the car to run to Target, I found this...

Well, at first I figured that it probably hadn't gotten on the rim correctly, so I might just be able to pump that baby back up...

Well, that thing was useless, lol. ;) Good thing I was in my driveway. So... I thought, I'll wait until my neighbor comes home, he has a big compressor that might work... um, turned out he was up north. Plan C. I will beg those on Facebook to help me. Maybe someone local will help. I got two offers... both from people that lived about 30 minutes away, and I didn't want to make them drive that far. So after much encouragement from female friends, I decided to tackle this change myself. No problem. Plan D. I've seen someone else change my tire.. I can DO this. I don't WANT to do this, but I am going to. For those of you that are calling me a woos right now... it is NOT because I am not willing to use tools. I am the one who fixes everything around here. But... I am accident prone. Seriously. I've sewn through my finger. In college I actually lost part of my finger to some glass while working at a restaurant. I know myself. This girl should not take on a 2 ton object. But everyone encouraged... so I listened.

I went to the back of the van. No problem. I know how to get the spare down from the bottom of the vehicle. Got out my trusty tools, and started to wind down the reel mechanism to release the spare. Only, it wasn't moving. So, I take out my trusty tool... and it is covered in rust dust. Um, that can't be good. So it's pretty much rusted and stripped and unable to come down.

Plan E. I try to call the shop where I got the tires. They are an amazing shop (if you are local, I SERIOUSLY recommend Good Deal Tire in Jenison, they will take care of you!!!) but they were closed. 5 minutes ago, lol. Okay, I will wait until morning. No big deal. That night, my best friend and her hubby come and try to help me. He brings his air compressor (no luck, the seal is broken) and tries to get the spare down. No luck there either. Sigh of relief. This girl still has it. It was not just me that couldn't get the darn thing down. They pack up and go home, dropping off my late movies to the rental store on the way. Love them. :) So in the morning, I call the Tire Shop. I explain my plight. They say that I can have the car towed to them, (and recommended a local towing company), or I can jack up the car and just bring in the one tire using a different vehicle. NO PROBLEM. In comparison to the $70 towing fee, jacking up the car and driving a wheel down the road seems EASY. So I charge my father in law's car that is sitting in my driveway (with a dead battery). Then I go get the jack, and start reading the manual. Yes, I read the manual JUST IN CASE. And I put it under the van. And it was a slow process, but I was DOING IT. So proud of myself, I start to smile. There was the problem. I got cocky. Are you ready? Wait for it.... the jack broke. In half. No seriously... take a look.

And I started to laugh. I mean, SERIOUSLY? Can that even HAPPEN?? lol Plan F. I want my Mommy. So I call the in-laws. They motorhome full time, but their permanent address is ours... so they keep some stuff here. (They lived in this house for 30 years before I showed up). So it's perfectly possible they have one sitting in our garage and I just don't know. "Mom, do you have a jack?" "Um... I don't know, Bill, do we have a jack?" And so the conversation goes. Nope. Oh, and I can't take his car becuase there is something wrong with the suspension. So much for that charged battery. So being the amazing parents they are.. they called a local shop, and just had him come and change and fix the tire. And had themselves billed for the whole darn thing, just because it had been such an ordeal. I love them. :)

Lesson learned. Karin is not meant to change her own tire. I will mow the lawn, I will install a light fixture, I will do alot of thing for THE HOUSE. The car is someone else's job. ;)

Is it fun???

2009-07-29T20:23:00.004-04:00

The other day a woman asked me if my kids love coming to the market with me. I'll admit it, I giggled. Every market day I hear "Ooohhhh, do we HAVE to go? Can't we just stay HERE? Isn't Grandma available to take care of us??? PLEASE???" But this lady made me smile, when she said "We used to do the Rockford Farmer's Market, and my kids both REALLY miss it". Hmmm... there is hope yet. ;) Haley loves to try to help with the selling, and setting up. Davis just likes the money when it comes in, lol. For the most part, they play in the field (at the one market) or behind the tables (at the other market). They really are so good about it all. Suddenly I found myself wondering if they would look back and love the experience, or look back and wonder how their mother could have made them do that week after week all summer long, lol. Looking back, I remember going to craft shows with my mom and her best friend. My sister and I would play in the surrounding areas, and sit at the booth, watching the people. They are all good memories. Even the early morning rides out to the shows. So I was already smiling... then looked at my kids and saw this...

I'd say they are having a pretty good time wouldn't you?

Then later they got to paint t-shirts. Torture, I tell you, just torture.

I asked Davis to give me a smile... and he gave me this....

Okay that's better.

And Haley with her ever tousled hair. :) For those of you who know her, you are probably thinking, seriously Karin, a WHITE SHIRT? But let me tell you that Gamma bought this one... and yes, Haley did end up getting paint all over it, lol. Yup, we'll be tie dying it later. ;)

It goes too fast...

2009-07-28T22:32:00.003-04:00

While we were at the market the other day, my wonderful son looked at me and said, "Mom, it looks like you have a soft tire." And you are thinking.... AND??? lol But it really struck me, and made me stop and think. I have reached the point where I am not just looking out for my kids... they are looking out for me. It is a comforting, yet odd feeling. I love that my kids look out for me... and that they love me (and still even want to be seen in public with me! lol), but what happened to my babies? I look around me, and all of my friends from high school are just now starting their families... and my oldest is going to start her last year in Elementary School... and in another district, she'd already be in Junior High/Middle School. Where did all of the time go?

So I've been trying to spend more quality time with the kids... while still trying to work full time on my business. It's an interesting balancing act. My kids LOVE to help... and sometimes I have trouble letting them. Haley was greeting and speaking to customers at the market on Sunday... SO sweet. But about 50% of me thought "Oh that is so sweet" and the other 50% though, "Oh my gosh, please don't say the wrong thing to the wrong person..." Sometimes I really wish I could be one of those moms that just says to heck with other people, lol, but I just can't.

So what about you? What things do you do to make time with your kiddos? Any board games to recommend? Mine love board games... me not so much, lol. So I'm looking for some quality time ideas... that might not take so long as monopoly...

Phew...

2009-07-08T13:35:00.004-04:00

Just wanted to pop in to say sorry for not posting recently. I had 3 shows in 4 days... I spent Monday and Tuesday recovering, lol. And today I have been sewing non stop. I had a great show on Saturday... sold all 15 of the purses I made on Friday (plus more). But now I am spending all of my time trying to re-fill my booth! lol So I do miss you all.... and I'll post something fun in the next few days. I promise. :)

If you came out to see me at any of the shows... thanks! I got to meet a reader from the blog I am doing a giveaway on! Small world!! (If you want to enter in the giveaway, click on the widget on the right!)

P.S... my new chair worked AWESOME! I don't think I would have made it through market on Sunday after the show on Saturday if I didn't have it. :) Yeah for spoiling myself!

I spoiled myself...

2009-07-01T17:06:00.003-04:00

For a while now I have really wanted a bar hieght director's chair for shows. I have a wooden one from Ikea that folds, but it's a little tough on the tooshie, lol. ;) Last week they were on sale at Cost Plus World Market, so I took full advantage. ;) I feel a little guilty for spending the money since things are so tight. On the other hand, I wasn't going to make it through very many more markets without it.

At the Market that I do every Sunday throughout the summer, the tables are stationary, and tall. It causes you to either sit and look UP at anyone who walks by, or stand the entire day. At most shows, I am happy and willing to stand and greet each and every customer. Every week at the Market I end up standing the ENTIRE day... but this gets old quickly when you do 2-3 a week! Well, since this is such a relaxed atmosphere, I decided this chair would be the perfect remedy. I can still get out of the chair to help someone, but this way I can see them coming more easily!

And of course, I had to give it my own flair, by sewing the fabric pieces myself. ;) I used twill for the bottom/back, and Michael Miller's Carnival for the front. I love this print, and it has so many great colors, it will always 'match' my booth. ;)

It's Fun Monday ;)

2009-06-29T17:15:00.005-04:00

I just love the thought of Monday being Fun Day. ;) Everyone on my facebook account hates Monday, lol... so this is my contribution to 'give back' to the underappreciated Monday. ;)

Today was a little cool to go to the beach. I suggested we go to a movie, and discovered that Davis doesn't like to go to the theater??? Hmmm... interesting. They both agreed that the park sounded good. The park, on a day that I won't roast, and won't freeze watching them? (High of 70 today). Delightful!

I got this pic of Haley playing in the trees... I love it. It describes her perfectly...tousled hair, with a gorgeous smile. ;)

Got this one of Davis at the same time. Love that smile too. ;)

Hagar Park here in Jenison is a fantastic park... filled with an amazingly large wood structure, that you could get lost in if you weren't careful. ;) Surrounded by trees, and trails, it has somethin for everyone. They played in the trees and on the wooden structure for a while, then asked to head over to the 'older' area of the park... where the "real playground" is. ;) I say this because it still has a merrie go round, monkey bars and a very tall, metal slide. You know, the death traps that are the most fun. ;)

On the way over this toad jumped over Haley's foot! She was startled, but excited. She loves animals. I was mean and didn't let her take it home. ;)

Then we went down the slide. Okay, they went down the slide, lol.

And spent, oh, about 2 hours on the merrie go round.

Then climbed the trees some more.

On the way home Davis said, "This is DEFINITELY Fun Day Monday." :)

And the winner is...

2009-06-29T09:17:00.002-04:00

According to Random.org... poster number 2 has claimed the prize! Kelly O, you have your choice of a key fob, a tissue cozy, or a badge reel! :) Email me with your choice/address and I will send it out!

Thanks so much to all that commented... my booth at this Sunday's Market looked MUCH better! I had somehow forgotten (seriously) about all my tricks I use for indoor shows. I have boxes I use to add height. I have a silver shelving unit that I love. I had to dig in the basement to get them out... and my spot thanked me for it! ;)

On a related note... a tv crew came down to the market and spotlighted us on the evening news! And guess whose spot was on the segment? You guessed it! Thanks everyone!

I love my kids ;)

2009-06-28T20:48:00.005-04:00

Davis was super bored yesterday, so we turned on the sprinkler. That got boring real quick, lol. So I (sarcastically actually) suggested they wash my car. They jumped up and down with excitement! Woot!

Then Davis set up a little spot on the trampline to relax. Here he is reading, and doing an activity book. :) Yay for playing outside!

The best part of my whole day? Not the free car wash... not even the fact that my son loves to be outside, and asked me to join him on the trampoline.

It was later, when I was sewing my little toocus off to finish some custom orders. My son asked me to come and hang out again, and I said I couldn't becuase I really needed to get these done. He smiled, brought me this...

and said, "Here Mom, now you can have a snack if you want!" and smiled and walked away. :) No, I take that back. Then he gave me a kiss on my cheek and walked away. ;) Man, I've got it good. ;)

Summer Smiles

2009-06-26T09:41:00.000-04:00

We have had multiple 90 degree days here this week. I was waiting for Spring... but somehow we shot straight to Summer, lol. I'm not complaining... I'd much rather have this than snow! But it's been warm. I almost melted at the market yesterday. ;)

What is worth leaving the air conditioning when the heat index is over 100? These smiles...

We went to the park on Monday and it was HOT. I made it about an hour, and then I started to get punchy. I had brought waters, snacks, a book. Life was good. But I was WARM. Then I remembered I had my craft show gazebo in the van. I felt like a fool with such a large 'tent' over me, lol, but I swear, I made it another hour and a half with that thing up! lol The kids had a blast.

My Davis is so silly, lol.

Haley LOVES the sand.

This is so much better than those days this winter that we weren't ALLOWED to leave our house becuase it was too cold, lol. ;)

A Work in Progress

2009-06-25T21:15:00.006-04:00

I was at the Metropolitan Hospital Market today, and had the chance to try out my new finds. It is so hard to get the right arrangement! I feel like I LOVE the pieces... but still need to find the right fit for each piece. Please ignore the cars, lol, it's a market, so you park behind your spot. ;)

The bird cage did a great job of holding up some wallets and some checkbook covers. ;)

I was able to find some baskets that fit in my pink 'swirly containers' as one blogger called them. ;) Found them at the dollar store! Woot!

And I went to the hardware store and bought just a metal rod to put on the Frito Lay Shelf so that I could hang some purses from it too. I need light, versatile pieces, so this is perfect. The funny part? The metal rod was $2.50... the whole shelving thing was $2, lol.

What do you think? Any thoughts? Do you do craft shows or markets? I'd LOVE to hear your favorite item from your set up! If you don't do shows... I'd love to hear what usually catches your eye in a booth when you go shopping. ;) On Sunday, I will use a random generator to pick one lucky winner from the 'tips'! ;) You will win your choice of a tissue cozy, a key fob or a checkbook cover! ;) Let's hear your comments! ;)

I'm on a roll...

2009-06-24T15:13:00.005-04:00

This summer I am determined to get us out of the house and DOING stuff. I find that on really hot days, (Like the 90 degree days we've had this week!) we sit and do nothing. I even put off turning on the air as long as possible, because I find it just encourages the laziness. You can't open the doors and send the kids outside... becuase you don't hear them... so we all just sort of sit around. After talking to a friend I decided that we would have certain days that would mean certain things to our family.

Monday? It's "Monday Funday" as the kids have so nicely named it, lol. They sit with me ALL day at the Market on Sunday, so I figured they deserved for the next day to be fun. This week we went to the local park to go swimming. Next week? Perhaps Lake Michigan... we shall see.

Wednesday is Library Day. My kids LOVE to read... Haley can spend hours with a good book with no complaints. Unfortunatley, I have problems RETURNING those books, lol. So if we go every week... those books can't ever be late right? Woot!

Thursday and Sunday are Market days. Booo for them... but yay for me! lol

You might be thinking... that's not all that much, lol. But we would happily be homebodies. I don't know if you remember my post about Festival? I offered for the kids to go back for the next two days... and both the kids said no, they were too tired! So we need some resting days too. :)

So today, we went to the Library. All three of us picked out some great books.. and the kids played on the educational computer games for a few minutes. Then we headed home. Well, sort of, lol. I got distracted...

Davis saw a garage sale and asked if we could stop to see if they had any fun toys. Sure!!!

And I found this adorable bird cage for a dollar! I forgot to take a before pic... but here it is painted a fun aqua color. I'm not sure how it's going to be used in my booth yet... but even if it just shares some character.. it's doing it's job. :)

Since that Garage Sale didn't have any kids items, we drove around for a few and tried to find something for the kids. Fail. :( Nothing fun for them... so we went to Walmart and picked up some 3-d chalk. SCORE! Now I can hit one more sale with no complaints, lol.

And I did. And I SCORED.

It is a Frito Lay Rack!!! It was um... ragged. Yeah, that's a nice way to put it. ;) So I painted this one too.

Do you see the clips on the side? How perfect! And shelves for wallets or small purses. I'm in garage sale heaven. :) How much? Oh, it was $2.

Congratulations!!

2009-06-22T21:06:00.004-04:00

Congratulations to Just Jingle... who won my Giveaway over at Joy's Hope!

Thanks everyone for all of the bloggy love! It has been so fun to read some posts on your blogs, and read all of your wonderful comments! I tried to thank every person who entered... but may have missed some.... so if you entered... Thanks for playing!!

Another GORGEOUS Market Day

2009-06-21T17:24:00.009-04:00

Oh, it is so nice to have SUMMER here! :) Here in Michigan, Winter really seemed to linger, and I was starting to worry I would never be WARM again! :) Today is a GORGEOUS day here in Southwest Michigan... 85 and full sun. Ahhhh... I'm not cold anymore. ;)

Last week I got in a little trouble because I didn't have pics... so this week I tried to take some. It was a nice, steady day of visitors, but not overwhelming. I had about 5 visitors that came by that I knew... and it was so nice to chat!! :) I love to chat. :) No really, if you know me, you know I don't ever shut up, lol.

Sorry, I got distracted. ;)

At this open air market, the booths are already set up with stationary tables. Honestly, that can make things difficult for me, since I usually use carts to hang things from. So I usually try to put one cart in front of the tables and and then use the tables as much as I can.

(Please note that I don't ALWAYS have toys on the ground behind my tables, lol. I ended up having anywhere from my 2 kids, to 5 back there at any given moment today, lol. Hey, if they can get along, and I can get some work done, it works!)

My fun new finds worked out GREAT! I painted them pink. :) I was going to use aqua, like one reader suggested, but I couldn't find a good one! I think hot pink works. :)

Wallets were popular today! Time to make some more! :)

My patchwork bags. But you've seen those already. :)

And something new!

Since last fall, I have had a few friends asking me about belts. Personally, I'm not really a 'belt wearer'.... no need to bring attention to my bulging belly, lol. I have also watched at craft shows while visitors try on belts that are far too big, or embarrassingly, far too small. So what do you do? Make 10 different sizes? Oye. I decided to do a Sash Belt. It is about 70 inches long, and can be tied to let hang. It is 3 1/2 inches wide so that it can be worn with a dress, or folded in half and put through your pant belt loop, then tied like above. For you super skinny girls, it can be tied into a cute bow! Even better? It can be worn around the head like a head band and tied in the back. Have a plain, leather purse? You can fold it in half and tie it as an accent on a handle! I'm trying to find the multitasking accessory, lol. ;) So what do you think?

Mmmm.... Patchwork ;)

2009-06-19T14:10:00.005-04:00

Well, I admit it. I'm still not caught up on my quilt. I know, I know. But did you see my last post?? How could I not use these amazing scraps, right? I had to make something, and I also had to practice free motion quilting before I put it all together, right? Right? lol Never mind that the quilt top pieces are not together yet! I had to practice...

This one is FUNKY! I like it and it bothers me at the same time, lol. My loving sister would freak out at this one, since it doesn't 'match'... but somehow that is what makes it work for me.

Mmm... Yummy Sandi Henderson goodness...

Pink Happiness...

And then some Amy Butler Bliss...

I had one similar to this at the market last week and it sold... while another person mourned that she didn't grab it first, lol. I figured I had better make another. ;)

For those of you participating in the Giveaway over at Joy's Hope... I will have these on Etsy in a few days, and you could win it! (Or anything else in the shop... since I am giving away a $25 gift credit!!) It is raining here today... so these were the best pics I could get... but as soon as those clouds go, these will all hit my Etsy Shop!

Jackpot!

2009-06-17T17:19:00.005-04:00

Yesterday while I was running errands I saw a Goodwill store and decided to stop in. You never know, right? Well... I hit the jackpot. I got two of these...

I splurged. I got the pair for $10. As someone who does craft shows almost year round, I am always looking for fun ways to display my items. I thought that these would be great to use at the market (where the tables are stationary, and I can't use my standing carts), to hang key fobs and badge reels.

Who wouldn't love all of those little spots to hook things from? I love them! Now to make them my own. :) I love them, but the antiqued look doesn't really work for my vibrant colors... so I'm sure you will see them back on here in a few days, slightly altered. ;)

Ahhh, and you'd think that would be enough for a "Jackpot!" post, wouldn't you? But no... things got even better. My friend Karin makes AMAZING children's clothing, and had an abundance of scraps. Sometimes, you just have to purge, you know? So she called me. "YES! I'd love to take your scraps!" I had no idea, lol... but take a look...

Look at all of those luscious fabrics just WAITING to be made into a patchwork tote! Oh I get all tingly just thinking of it...

Look at all of those pinks! I think it might be time for an all pink patchwork tote.

Look at the variety! Can you imagine how long it would take me to aquire this many DIFFERENT fabrics! I am in heaven! I know I am supposed to be working on my quilt... but I'm feeling a little sidetracked, lol.

What a Week! And It's not even over! ;)

2009-06-16T22:59:00.004-04:00

The Fulton Market was amazing on Sunday. It was so busy that I feel like I just finally felt normal TODAY, lol. I woke up on Monday with achey feet, arms, and legs, lol. ;) I don't have any pictures... because I was so busy I didn't have time to stop! Woot!

Anyway, then I just got an email from this site...

That I am featured in a Wish List on their blog. It is a really neat concept! How often do you wish you could register for handmade items? I love Target... but when I got married I would have LOVED to register for items on Etsy! (We won't talk about the fact that it didn't exist then, lol). Well, this site offers just that. You can register for handmade items for your wedding! ROCK ON! Absolutely suggesting it to friends getting married. Anyway, they feature certain wish lists... and one of my bags was on it! Woot!

Now THAT is a good morning...

2009-06-12T16:36:00.005-04:00

Today I was featured as an artist on Take Five on Channel 13 here in Grand Rapids, MI. It is a local show that discusses local issues, along with providing information about local entertainment and businesses. It is a fun local show! I am honored to have been a part of an episode. :)

Jennifer Ackerman from the Grand Rapids Press is the lovely lady speaking about all of our items. :) She featured me on her blog, CraftSanity last year. She is a sweet lady, who really appreciates the handmade movement. Today she was featuring artists from the Fulton Street Artisans Market, where I sell most Sundays during the summer. We will have over 60 vendors this Sunday, so if you are in the area, come and see us!

Go HERE and you can watch the segment yourself!

Wouldn't it be nice..

2009-06-09T17:43:00.003-04:00

... if money grew on trees?

But it doesn't... so to do my part, I'm doing free shipping until Saturday! :) So if there's something you've been eyeing in the shop, let me know! Simply purchase the item, and mention my blog in the notes to seller. I will reimburse your shipping via paypal!

But wait! I'm not done! Every purchase that mentions my blog will ALSO get a free SURPRISE in their package! You won't know what it will be until it reaches your door... but I promise it will be good! ;)

Have fun shopping!

Feeling Loved...

2009-06-08T22:00:00.004-04:00

I was in the forums on Etsy today and found out I was nominated in an Etsy Vote for best cozy! :) Woot! So if you would be so kind as to take a gander over to the Etsy Voter and consider voting for my blue tissue cozy, I'd be much obliged! :)

Quilt Along... Week 3 and all caught up

2009-06-06T20:45:00.003-04:00

Aaaahhh, I'm all caught up with the Quilt Along!!! YAY! So here are my blocks, all sewn together, then cut and in stacks. :) Unfortunately, on about oh, the last strip I figured out that I hadn't read the directions very well. I have skimming issues. I skim when I read. I know, I know. This is why I got only so-so grades in high school, lol. I was supposed to put the strips together 'randomly', but instead I put each one in the same order as the last.

But Dana (the Quilt Along host) said not to sweat the small stuff... so I'm not. Frankly, I think this was God's way of making this easier on me. I LOVE the way random and askew things look... but I have a REALLY hard time doing it myself. When I was little I used to wonder what foot I took my first step with, because I thought that when I died I should take my last step with the other foot so it was 'even'. LMBO! I KNOW! Stop laughing and keep reading. ;) I know, I have some serious OCD tendancies. (Funny thing is, I am SO MESSY, but my towels have to be folded a certain way. The Living Room can have stuff everywhere, but my cabinets should be organized! lol). So anyway, can you imagine the stress I would have put myself under attempting to make these blocks "random"? Dear me, I would still be organizing. ;)

So here is my theory on what it might look like...

Not the random quilt originally planned but I am loving the colors I chose. I was originally a little nervous about the blue not being quite right... but I think it works. :) I hope the kids will understand when I tell them they can't touch it when it's done, lol.

Festival '09

2009-06-05T18:42:00.010-04:00

For those of you not in the West Michigan area, we have an amazing thing here, called Festival of the Arts. I've been going to it my entire life. For some, it is 'just a festival', but for me, it is a lifetime full of memories, and more waiting to happen.

It is a celebration of many of the things I love. They have several (5 or 6?) different stages, with perfomances for three days. Those performances include ballet dancers, rock bands, barbershop quartets, and many more. When I was in high school there were years that I performed all three days. I loved it.

Then there is the artist's tent, where artists sell their wares.... and the display area with fine art on display. I mean, what more could you ask for? Well, FOOD. lol There are over 20 booths run by non profit organizations as fundraisers... all with ethnic foods. Some American, Greek, Italian, etc. There are alot of people who go JUST for the food! :)

And you are thinking, wow, this must cost a fortune! Nope! Everything is free but the food. :) Now, you can spend a pretty penny on food, lol, but it's always going to a great cause! So we took full advantage...

We hit the Face Painting, where Haley got a sun and Davis got an orange goatee. I can not tell you hot fitting these choices were, lol. I got a watermelon. :)

We hit the T-shirt Printing (my personal favorite, a huge memory from my childhood!)...

And they even have a drier so that you don't smudge! Woot!

Then we did the Glue In (each child gets 8 pieces of wood to create whatever they would like with those pieces and wood glue)...

So much concentration...

Then there was the Paint In. LOVE this... my kids go home with ART!

They think of everything... they even have a bucket for them to wash their hands!

Then we stopped for some apple juice. A little story behind this picture... Haley was NOT happy about that apple juice being in the picture, especially that close to her head. However, she knew I wanted a nice picture so she is smiling and yelling at Davis through clenched teeth, lol! You'll notice that they now have on their new t-shirts. Well... that's because Haley managed, even with a smock, to get paint all over her shirt. I tell you, this girl is the messiest child I have ever met, lol. It is part of her charm, I suppose. ;)

From there we decided it was time for an elepant ear. It is a must at Festival. :)

Then off to make hats! This was a huge memory for me as a child as well... the very thing I remember doing at festival year after year. I can't believe that they are still doing it. :)

Then off to the DiSuvero Swing (which I believe is actually supposed to be a work of art, lol). Haley doesn't like it, but as you can tell, Davis came off of it one happy guy. ;)

Then we got Balloons. A fish on a pole and a sword. (Also free! But I tipped the guy a few dollars because he was awesome!) Is it just me or does Davis look like a Hitler wanna-be here? lol

So obviously there is lots to do and lots to see. Lots of fun... but mostly lots of smiles.

My adorable son

2009-06-05T09:20:00.000-04:00

The other night I went to bed to find this note...

In case you can't read it, and want to know what it says... it reads "Mom do you like my legos and my contraptions for them? Yes No" But this isn't the adorable part. Please note that he left me a tootsie roll. :) That's one heck of an 8 year old. He left ME a tootsie roll. He found it, managed to not eat it, and then left it for me, lol. And in case you are wondering... he makes some amazing contraptions for his legos. :)