My Tiny Sweet Cheeks

Awards

2011-02-09T16:26:00.002-06:00

Really??? I didn't know anyone still even read my blog?!?!?! I've been such a slacker on the blogfront...

Ashlee, from My Swanky Crafts, has kindly awarded me with a “Stylish Blogger” Award.

*To accept this award, I have to…

1. Thank and link back the blogger who awarded me!

2. Share 8 things about myself

3. Award 8 more “Stylish Blogger’s” of my choice!

4. Contact the bloggers and inform them of the Award!

About me --

1. My kids are my life! Everything I do, or in some cases don't do, it's all for them! They are amazing and it's so fun to re-live experiences through their eyes.
2. I am full-time nursing student. This may be why I have little to zero time to blog, craft, socialize etc. I am looking forward to graduation in December so I can have my life back!

3. I love to read! Back when I had time, I could easily read 2-3 books a week. Pretty ridiculous when you walk out of the library with a stack on Monday and return them on Friday.

4. I have played the piano for 22 years now and LOVE it. I also love to teach piano, but haven't been do so in Arkansas yet.

5. I was raised in Utah, but love my southern roots. I don't like snow. I do like humidity. I know, you're all flabbergasted.

6. I am a classic blog lurker. I have probably been on your blog at some point. I'm just too "in the closet" to comment...

7. I am a married to a veteran who makes my life interesting everyday! We're very patriotic and love all our servicemen and women!

8. I'm addicted to Dr. Pepper. There, I said it. Admitting you have a problem is the first step in recovery.

Okay, here is where I choose 8 fabulous bloggers to pass this Award on to! {Just a note: I'm having a hard time with this one...too many choices!}

1. Dana & Gina @ Bloggy Got Back

2. Taija @ Sweet Shoppe

3. Jen @ Baby Blvd

4. Marshall & Mylinda @ Eighty Daisies

5. The Dating Divas

6. Olive Juice

7. Brit @ Poppy Snaps

8. Tangled & True

Congrats to all who have received this award. Thanks for posting, letting us all share in your genius and making us want to be a little craftier :) Happy Blogging!

Glitter High Heels

2010-12-08T21:31:00.003-06:00

Absolutely cannot wait to make these found
HERE at Little Shop of Shavs.

Aniston in Wonderland

2010-09-20T21:42:00.000-05:00

Yes, Yes, I know I went a tad overboard on my daughter's birthday party, but it couldn't have been any more wonderful! Our tea party was a smash and we had so much fun!

We started off decorating our own mugs for keepsakes.

After that it was tea time! We mixed our {herb}tea with sugar and cream and had some fantastic cupcakes.

It was a great day and totally worth it for our own Queen of Hearts!

FREE Small Popcorn From Regal Theatres

2010-08-27T08:07:00.000-05:00

Go over to Regal Theatres Facebook page and "Like" them to get your coupon for a FREE Small Popcorn. The coupon is valid 8/27 - 8/29 at participating locations. See coupon for details.

Yes, I really Did

2010-08-06T22:34:00.001-05:00

It's true. I don't know what I was thinking. Or how my husband let me do it. But I painted my counter tops. I wish I had a before picture...come to think of it...I'm sure I can scrounge one up.


See the nasty faux wood circa 1980s

So anyway, I just did it. I think the results speak for themselves. I am SOOOOO happy!

Primed. Thinking, "What did I just do?"

Painted. Thinking, "Okay, this has potential"

Finished. "AHHHH!"

SLR Camera Bag

2010-06-04T13:32:00.000-05:00

I don't know about ya'll but I HATE toting my massive nikon camera bag with me everywhere I go, but I can't afford to spend a bajillion dollars on a chic boutique one. Found this one HERE at Creating Happiness and am so impressed. I don't know if my sewing skills are up to par, but one can dream!

Mom's Day Boutonniere

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

How sweet would this be to give to your Mom on Mother's Day to wear to church?!?!? Loving it - especially that she can wear it over and over again.

Found HERE at Sew Mama Sew

Lately...

2010-04-11T20:28:00.000-05:00

So I am a slacker. But it's not just this blog. It's all my blogs. My life has become one big whirlwind of activities and some little annoying voice in my head keeps telling me it isn't about to get better. So, in the likely event of posts being few and far between, I thought I'd let you know what I've been up to.

Lately...

I've been cooking in a slow cooker ALL the time because my oven has been broken for ten days...and the guy can't make it out until NEXT Friday.

I've been dealing with a teething baby, who is also attempting to crawl. Lord help us all.

I've been studying Anatomy pretty much non-stop because Professors believe in jamming everything they thought they could get done, but didn't, in the last three weeks of lecture.

I've been researching and reading reviews on all sorts of breast pumps and finally took the $250 plunge and bought an Avent Isis IQ Duo Pump. It's magnificent, beautiful, and nearly soundless. Lovin' it.

What are you doing?

Lovin on Mango's

2010-04-04T23:17:00.000-05:00

Find out how to turn these

into this

HERE at Our Best Bites

Design Aglow

2010-03-30T21:44:00.001-05:00

Have you seen the beautiful new camera bags by Epiphanie Bags? They are giving one away HERE to a lucky reader (you choose your favorite style too)! And, three runners-up will each receive a $100 shopping spree in Design Aglow’s shop.

Have you seen all the beautiful new products & contest for pro photographers on http://www.DesignAglow.com?

Tulle Pom Pom Winner

2010-03-29T07:00:00.001-05:00

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2010-03-29 02:07:51 UTC

Congratulations Baby S!!

Notebook Cozy

2010-03-26T21:18:00.000-05:00

How great are these to throw in your bag for church? I'm usually the last to discover things, but I have NEVER seen these. Too cute! Check out the great tutorial HERE from Camille's Casa.

Burlap Bunny

2010-03-25T20:46:00.000-05:00

Pretty sure this is the most darling bunny I've seen this season. Easter decor tends to be a tad cheesy in my opinion, but I'm loving this! Check it out HERE from Projects, Pinching Pennies and Plugging Along.

Pouty Faces!

2010-03-19T19:35:00.003-05:00

UPDATED!!!

Here are some great pouty faces - keep them coming! I will update this post daily and make sure all your sweethearts get their day of fame! To see the giveaway post, click HERE.

#1 Micah

#2 Baby S.

#3 Mary-Grace

#4 Griffyn

# 5 Baby H.

#6 Morgan

#7 Lizzy

#8 Baby J.

It's Definitely Time!

2010-03-19T15:20:00.001-05:00

Ever just have one of those weeks?

Well, that's been us at our house. But Spring is finally here and so to get us out of our winter funk, My Tiny Sweet Cheek's is having a Giveaway!!!

Send in your best pouty face photos of your little ones to be displayed right here and be automatically entered to win this darling set of Tulle Pom Pom Clippies!

These are seriously SO cute in pigtails, and you can also clip them onto headbands if your little one is bald like mine!

There are no rules, just capture that pouty moment and email it to ME. Contest ends Saturday, March 27th at 11:59 p.m. Winner will be selected randomly and announced Monday, March 29th.

Blueberries & Cream

2010-03-10T20:03:00.000-06:00

Want a few minutes of heaven in a bowl? Dump some frozen blueberries and pour Half and Half over the top. I didn't say calorie free, just heaven...

Yum.

St. Patty's Fortune Cookies

2010-03-10T07:00:00.000-06:00

Check out this pure awesomeness! SOOO excited to show off some of these at my St. Patty's Green Dinner. Found HERE on Sisters' Stuff.

Mason Jars

2010-03-09T21:57:00.000-06:00

Love this idea and fresh take on storing your extra ribbon in Mason Jars. Found HERE on Refresh Reuse Redo.

2010-03-05T07:00:00.000-06:00

Loving the ways a Pom-Pom can be used -- so gather up all your extra yarn hanging around and get to work making something fabulous. Use this great tutorial HERE from Domestifluff.

Personalized Hand Soap

2010-03-04T07:00:00.000-06:00

I got one of these from my mom as a Mother's Day gift and I love it! I always get comments on it whenever anyone new frequents my hall bathroom. Since then I have used it for teachers, friends, neighbors, etc. Definitely pocket friendly and personal.

The Idea Room has a great tutorial HERE already put together for you. Happy Washing!

2010-03-03T17:11:00.002-06:00

Check this out! Don't you hate when that shade in the bottle is so NOT the same color when you get home. Check out Scrangie - she tests it and shows you how it will really look. Now if only my nails were as pretty as her's...

Stuffed Animal Child Harness

2010-03-03T16:56:00.000-06:00

I have never had one of these - I think some people refer to them as "leashes" but after my wild afternoon running errands with an energetic toddler, I'm leaning towards it. I actually think he would like it, he's always tying belts around his waist and asking me to pull him.

Find this sweet tutorial HERE at Cupkateer.

Seen these?

2010-02-27T10:00:00.000-06:00

Have to admit, I'm kinda a sucker for late night infomercials. Saw this product and actually really wanted it. I am, however, much to cheap. If nothing else, I usually have self control when it comes to my infomercial addiction.

Then, while perusing my favorite blogs, Little Birdie Secrets showed me how to make one! Hallelujah! Check out her awesome (and very likely, free to be done) tutorial HERE.

Silk Posies

2010-02-26T22:14:00.000-06:00

Also made up some sweet silk posies - some to dress up my drab brown headband, and a darling one for my little princess to match. Hey, I only get to dress her up for so long...

Adjustable Headbands

2010-02-26T21:59:00.000-06:00

So I got my craft on tonight and made a quick project that I thought I would share with ya'll. I can say ya'll now - I live in the South.

So...Here's what you need to get started.

Hot Glue Gun/Glue Sticks
2 Corresponding Ribbons, 1" and 1/4" {or bigger, if you'd like}
Thread (for making bow)
Elastic Lace
Lingerie Strap Slides and Rings

Here's what they look like - find at any fabric store in the notions section.

Step 1: Cut a length of your elastic, approximately 10" long. On one end, thread thru ring and hot glue. Then put on one slide, and the other loop. Do NOT glue these down.

Step 2: Thread the loose end of your strap thru the slide {directions are on the back of package}. Your second ring should now have the elastic "looped" thru it.

Step 3: Hot glue the loose end of elastic to the back side of loop. NOT towards the first loop.

Step 4: Cut a length of your larger ribbon, approx. 9" and thread through one loop and hot glue, then do same for other side. Make sure your elastic and ribbon aren't twisted, and turned the way you'd like them to be.

Step 5: Make your bow. Sorry, no pictures of this step. Great videos on YouTube tho! Attach to ribbon headpiece, using hot glue.

Step 6: Using 1" strips of your smaller thread, wrap them around the raw ends of the larger ribbon, near the rings. {Ouch, this is where I burned myself!}

VOILA! A headband that will truly grow with your little girl and not leave those red indents in her precious head.

All in all, this cost me about $5.00 for the elastic and the hardware - but you get enough for 3 headbands. These kind of headbands usually run anywhere from $7-$12 dollars in boutiques. Not too shabby!

Tag Lovey

2010-02-25T21:50:00.000-06:00

Loving one of these I made up with some spare fabric and ribbon I had lying around! Great entertainment, no risk of choking and FREE! {For me anyways, but dig thru those scrap bins at Joanne's and I'm sure it will be very cheap.}

Twiddler Tag Blanket Tutorial from Mama's Doodles

Hair Reveal

2010-02-25T14:45:00.002-06:00

Okay, this is going to be a much harder process than I had originally thought. Apparently my hair is darker/more red than I ever realized, so getting it as blonde as I want it to be - short of bleaching my whole head - is going to take some time. I also went about an inch longer on the length than I intended too - just to make sure. At my next appointment, definitely going more blonde and shorter.

BUT

Let's remember the before: boring, blah, drab...

During...So far so good

The huge pile of hair {yes, the stylist thought I was weird for taking a picture}

and FINALLY, the result: {I apologize for the poor picture taking skills of my DH}

Thanks everyone for holding my hand through chopping off my eight inches of hair!

Going Green

2010-02-24T10:37:00.000-06:00

I think green is an undervalued color. Which is why I really like St. Patrick's Day. I know, weird. But here is another undervalued idea I think us adults take for granted that little kids find insanely cool.

Turn those boring white carnations into a fabulous St. Patrick's day spectacle.

Simply add some green food coloring to the water and voila!

Want to add a little more adult flair? Check out these awesome carnation centerpiece ideas from The Savvy Bride, find them HERE.

I love these funky white vases - wouldn't they look great on the mantle for all of March! Carnations will last that long if you keep them watered.

Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow...

2010-02-23T13:40:00.000-06:00

Well, the votes are in. Officially, between this blog and my personal blog, it was an astonishing win of look #4 - apparently I'm not the only one who thinks, Go Big or Go Home.

After a talk with my new hairstylist who ~~I'm hoping won't butcher my hair~~ I'm sure will do a great job she told me it just isn't feasible to put that much color in AND the curl at the same time. She said it would look terrible and may even fall out. Yikes. So that disaster has been avoided.

Color just isn't going to be enough for me though. Like I said, Go Big or Go Home. So we're going to go blonde, but cut it short.

So tomorrow, I'm chopping ~~holding my breath~~ my hair. Pictures to come!

It's Up to Vote

2010-02-18T22:17:00.002-06:00

Meet me. Yes, I am severely lacking the sun-kissed look. I have looked the same since I graduated from high school with few changes. I need a change. I need a fresh look for spring. I need it pronto.

So I am posting a 4 "new me" options that I like. I am going to go with your vote. My husband was no help at all and told me to ask all ya'll. Great advice!

Look #1
Body Wave a la Kate Hudson{which yes, I have thoroughly researched and will buy my own rods to take to my stylist.}

Look #2

Short a la cute girl

Look #3
Go Blonde a la Jessica Simpson

Look #4
Go for it all and combine all three! a la Charlize Theron

Pretty Pretty Please vote and help me decide! Much obliged.
See the poll in the right column!

Deal Alerts!

2010-02-17T14:49:00.000-06:00

Check out these great deals found at Hip2Save!

Bath & Body Works has their Anti-bacterial hand soap on sale for just $3! Plus, they have a printable coupon available to score a FREE Hand Soap with any $10 purchase!

Deal Scenario:
Buy 5 Anti-bacterial hand soaps $3 each
Total = $15
Use the coupon for one FREE Hand Soap
Final cost ONLY $2.40 per hand soap… not bad for a product that normally retails for $5!These make great housewarming gifts!

…And here is yet another high value coupon! Go on over here to take a Cetaphil survey (it will take about 4 minutes to complete). After doing so, you’ll be able to access a $5/1 Cetaphil Product coupon. Press your browser back button to print a total of 2 coupons per computer. You click on the "Tell Me Who You Are" arrow by the little girl in the yellow dress and it will take you there! I love this stuff - it is all I use on my face, ever!

Want to help?

2010-02-13T11:32:00.000-06:00

I have been him-hawing about a conversation I had with my teenage baby-sitter last night. She was fabulous - so it wasn't a bad conversation. It had to do with the fact that she and her friends have a very difficult time in Arkansas finding modest formals to wear to their high school and church functions. Ordering online is a huge expense and it's just not feasible to many of the families here.

SO...

I offered her my small collection of formals left over from my high school days for her to pick thru and borrow for her nights. But let's face it, one size does NOT fit all when it comes to dresses.

Then I thought, I wonder if I could enlist the help of some of my faithful blog friends? Genius.

If you have any formals cluttering up your closet that you are looking to either donate or consign, will you let me know? All I ask is they are semi in-style. Let's face it, vintage is back.

I just really feel that every girl should have the opportunity to feel beautiful and modest no matter her circumstances.

THANK YOU!!!

Sassarella - Ending Soon!

2010-02-13T11:17:00.000-06:00

I love finding great items at bargain prices! Sasarella Boutique is just that - quality, chic, affordable. And to launch out her great new website and blog, Sasarella Boutique is having a giveaway for this great Zebra tote. I really want to sport this one around town!

isn't she cute?

Check out her website HERE and visit the Sasarella Boutique blog HERE to enter this giveaway. Hurry though, it ends today - the winner will be announced tomorrow on Valentine's Day!

60% OFF

2010-02-10T12:33:00.002-06:00

Printable Michael's coupon HERE

Shutter Reveal

2010-02-09T22:24:00.001-06:00

FINALLY!

Do you ever have a project where if something can go wrong, it will? That has been these shutters. I'm not going to tell you how long I gave up on them ~~3 months~~ but I've pulled myself together and I think turned out something pretty great. They're no hall of fame shutters, but they'll suffice.

So, first I enlisted my handy tool man to help me hang them. And yes, I know he's in Halloween jammies, but he loves the spider.

Then I nicely hung them up and accessorized with a few books.

I realize they clash, but they are on opposite walls and I have a boy and a girl in the same room for now - I wanted them to be able to move with them when I finally get them into separate sleeping quarters. It'll have to do.

Baby Bronson

2010-02-08T22:24:00.001-06:00

As a mother, this really grabs at your heart and makes you want to do anything possible to hep another mother. Even if all you can do is pray. Please read Bronson's story HERE and remember him in your prayers tonight.

I know I get distracted all too easily, what an important reminder to hold on tighter to the most precious things.

MaryJanes and Galoshes

2010-02-08T13:53:00.001-06:00

HUGE giveaway over HERE at MaryJanes and Galoshes. These are not only adorable and fun to look at, but educational and store really well. These are valued between $150-$175 each and if you win, you get your choice! Go over and leave her a comment!

Pom Pom Update

2010-02-03T15:53:00.001-06:00

So here are a couple of things I learned while making these pom poms - which are really super cute, btw.

If you want a full circle look, you have to cross your tissue paper (like a + sign) or else it has no top depth.
For bigger balls, use more tissue paper! 8 sheets does not give it a full enough look.
For smaller balls, cut the tissue paper in half, and cut more off the length when you round it - they turn out really great!
Add your fishing line for hanging in BEFORE you pull out all the tissue paper.
Idea! Alternate the colors of your tissue paper so you have a multi-colored pom pom.

Sorry no pics, but those are my tips. Let me know if I have confused you or you have more questions.

And thanks for telling me where to find black tissue paper - I'm so excited to hang these in the empty corner of my master bedroom that is begging for something to be done to it.

Tissue Paper Pom Poms

2010-02-02T21:31:00.000-06:00

So I am in charge of decorating for the BI-STAKE Valentine's Dance. If that's not some pressure, then I don't know what is. I have been looking all around online for great ideas and came up with these amazing tissue paper pom poms. I am not, however, going to pay $19 for 3 and still have to put them together. So I thought, surely someone has a tutorial.

Found a great one HERE at Hot Diggity Blog! I'm so excited to get going on these - I kinda want to do some black ones for my room. Do they sell black tissue paper???

Burlap Heart Wreath

2010-02-02T21:23:00.000-06:00

Made myself one of these unique fabulous Burlap Heart Wreaths tonight. Whipped it up in a jiffy too - probably only took 20 minutes (including cutting all the fabric). Check out how to make your own HERE at Craftaholics Anonymous and be the envy of all the neighbors!

2010-02-01T16:33:00.002-06:00

I have to admit, I have kinda been in a funk lately. I am slowly crawling out of my hole and hope to be posting some more fun stuff soon. Sorry! Keep posting all your creative crafty finds and inspire me!!

Katelyn & Co

2010-01-26T15:30:00.000-06:00

Totally awesome giveaway going on right now at Katelyn & Co. Check out all this loot!

Click HERE to enter.

An Ode to the Deepfreeze

2010-01-25T07:00:00.000-06:00

Somehow along the bumpy trip from Idaho to Arkansas our deep freezer fell ill. I didn't realize this until after I had stored my six month supply of breastmilk in it, and came out in the morning to find it all thawed out. Gasp. Cry with me please because that is literally what I did -- sat down and cried. Then I took a deep breath, sighed, and walked out of the garage.

Now that it has been a couple of months, and I'm back trusting that a freezer will not fail me again, I took the plunge and bought a gorgeous new upright freezer. Ecstatic!!! My DH thinks I'm crazy, but whatever...you all know I'm right.

I went searching for the best way to store my freezables (is that a word??) and came across this tip from A Little Tipsy - read the whole post HERE - and can I just say, it changed my world! I am able to store twenty pounds of hamburger and twenty pounds of chicken on one shelf!! I still have a whole freezer to fill up. Plus, it looks so pretty! Definitely try it out - and check out their other awesome tips!

A Pocket Full of Posies

2010-01-22T15:34:00.000-06:00

All I can say is, I want one! I looked at this and lamented over I got rid of all my ribbon scraps before moving across the country. Darn, I just might need to go get some more :)

Take a look at what Jill from A Pocket Full of Posies has created.

She has some really cute flower ideas too - I love how bold she is with her use of colors and size. I would never think to accessorize the way she does. Purely fabulous!

Love, Actually

2010-01-21T15:39:00.001-06:00

I grew up with holidays being a big deal at my house. This was made apparent when my sixteen year old brother asked my mom, "Why hasn't the leprechaun come yet?" last year at 7 p.m. My husband rolls his eyes, but to me it is a tradition I want to continue.

The problem is, I don't make holidays about my husband at all. In fact, it's always about the kids.

So I want to do something ultra special for him this Valentine's Day, so maybe next year he'll say, "Honey, how come cupid hasn't shown up yet?" and he won't mean it in a *wink wink* sort of way.

Stumbled across this blog by way of one of the many blogs I frequent. Love, Actually is such a great idea blog! I have to get some ducks in a row and try out some of these. The best part, most of the ideas are not only feasible, but affordable too. Makes having date night more of a reality once the little monsters show up in your house -- or start sleeping in your bed. {Yes, that is still a common occurance at my house.}

Hope this helps make your Valentine's Day a little more romantic and hubby oriented!

My Sweet Melissa

2010-01-20T14:01:00.000-06:00

A good friend sent me over to this blog My Sweet Melissa that is just getting started. What an inspirational story behind the reasons for this blog and some great home decorating ideas. Head over HERE to get inspired and show her some bloggy love.

Panic Setting In

2010-01-18T13:02:00.000-06:00

I started off my morning going to Silver Sneakers Yoga. Yes, the one for the really old people. I was the only one in there under sixty -- literally -- and it was great! I met some awesome folks, centered myself, and thought, "This is going to be a great day."

Then I came home.

The pile of laundry is still in the living room. The bathrooms still need cleaning. The kids are still whining. And the dinner still needs to be made for the people who are coming over tonight.

And for some reason the yoga feel is wearing off.

Miles to go before I sleep, Miles to go before I sleep.

Previews

2010-01-15T12:46:00.000-06:00

Remember THIS post, well, here's a sneak peek -- They just need one more day to dry before I can hang them up. Drying takes FOREVER!

And yet another thrifty find, sneek preview...Wait til you see what I'm going to do with these!

Oh So Girly Giveaway

2010-01-13T07:52:00.000-06:00

There's a great new giveaway going on at Someday Crafts for a interchangeable watch face and band AND a $10 credit from Oh So Girly. What a sweet thing!!! Go check them both out!

Feeling the need for Valentine's Day Lovies

2010-01-12T15:33:00.001-06:00

There's something so drab about January - and I'm feeling the need to fill that holiday void by getting ready for the next holiday. Here's some easy peasy Valentine's Day crafts to get excited about.

Softies Hearts from Blisstree

Brown Paper Bag Valentine's Album from Craftbits

Cockscomb Valentine Wreath from Martha Stewart

Food Storage

2010-01-08T14:35:00.000-06:00

I may be crafty, but I do not claim to be handy. Anyone want to make me one of these? I'm literally ~~drooling~~ in awe of her resourcefulness and ability. And to have my cans all lined up like that: organized, pretty, rotating... ~~drooling again!~~

Check out even more amazing projects at I refuse to Recede -- and if you really are handy and can make one of these, she has a tutorial for you HERE

Snow Ice-Cream

2010-01-08T14:29:00.001-06:00

Apparently everyone except us in Arkansas are getting hammered with snow. What better way to keep your kids entertained instead of letting them drive you mad during one of those snow days. Make up some Snow Ice-Cream with this fun tutorial found HERE at Lark Song Knits. Yummy!

Bloggy Got Back

2010-01-07T07:00:00.001-06:00

I don't know if you are like me at all, but I like to change up the look of my personal blog a lot. It's fun to find that new look that no one else has, if you know what I mean.

Bloggy Got Back is a fun new blog offering FREE backgrounds.

Gina and Dana {the designers} are seriously 2 of the most creative gals I know. Not only are they wonder-women in the way that makes everyone roll their eyes, but they genuinely care about people and do everything with their whole heart.

They are always adding new designs -- I really like the Valentine's Day ones. Here's a smidgen of samplings - I just realized I picked a lot of pink ones because I happen to be into pink at the moment. But there really are a lot of other colors too...

Circle of Love

Almost Janelle

Lime Sublime

Just Janelle

I'm pleased to Introduce

2010-01-06T21:38:00.001-06:00

I love after Christmas sales. 80% - 90% is pretty much the only way I roll. Check out these babies I got at Hobby Lobby - what I should have paid $34.97 - what I did pay $6.95!

I have thus named them, Orson, Fiona, and yet to be determined little guy. {Any suggestions?}

I like them so much I want to figure out a way to keep them out year round - somehow decorate them for upcoming holidays and keep switching it around. Any ideas???

Argyle Shirt

2010-01-05T07:41:00.000-06:00

I love finding ways to jazz up my little man's wardrobe - it seems most things are geared towards girls, so boy finds are great!

Lu Bird Baby turned this fabulous onesie into a stylin' Argyle Shirt HERE.

Could easily be finished while watching your favorite TV show {although at the moment they're all reruns, dang it!}

Ribbon Ruffled Socks

2010-01-04T08:00:00.000-06:00

Easy project - wouldn't it be darling to match these with the little Misses' bows?

Find the tutorial HERE from the Ribbon Retreat

So you can get to know me...

2010-01-03T22:03:00.002-06:00

A = ADVOCATE FOR: Kids in carseats and seatbelts.
B = BEST FEATURE: I'd have to go with my long legs
C = COULD DO WITHOUT: washing the car
D = DREAMS AND DESIRES: Finishing school
E = ESSENTIAL ITEM: Ceptaphil - keeps my skin amazing!
F= FAVORITE PAST TIME: Reading a good book
G = GOOD AT: Playing the piano
H = HAVE NEVER TRIED: Skydiving, and hopefully never will.
I = IF I HAD A MILLION DOLLARS: I'd be rich!
J = JUNKIE FOR: Sno-cones with the cream on 'em
K = KINDRED SPIRIT: Probably mi madre
L = LITTLE KNOWN FACT: I have a piece of graphite stuck in my foot 'cuz I tripped holding a pencil when I was seven and jammed it in there real good.
M = MEMORABLE MOMENT: Being elated when I found out I was pregnant and then freaking out because I found out I was pregnant.
N = NEVER AGAIN WILL I: jump out my window while playing house {hey, I was 7!)
O = OCCASIONAL INDULGENCE: Pedicures
(Did no one else notice there was no P???)
Q = QUOTE: "Seriously!" (the most used phrase on Grey's Anatomy)
R = REASON TO SMILE: I have the cutest little boy and girl ever!
S = SORRY ABOUT: sweeping around the kitchen mats - sorry mom.
T = TAG SOME FRIENDS: I'd love to hear any tid bit about you!
U = UNINTERESTED IN: Anything concerning knives, much to my husband's chagrin
V = VERY SCARED OF: Falling
W = WORST HABIT: Popping my knuckles
X = X MARKS MY IDEAL VACATION SPOT: Anywhere warm and beachy, like Hawaii or the Caribbean - but my dream vacation is Italy
Y = YESTERYEAR DECADE OF CHOICE: Bring on some of that 1990's music!
Z = ZODIAC SIGN: Libra

Major Snowstorm in Arkansas!

2010-01-03T21:53:00.003-06:00

Just because I know all you westerner's are getting slammed,
I thought I'd let youknow I feel your pain.

Hehehe

What? You don't see the specks? Ok, ok, here's some proof!

So we had to bundle up our snow baby to go to church. After all, it was her first snow experience, being an Arkansas girl and all.

Public Service Announcement

2010-01-02T22:22:00.000-06:00

Hey everyone!

I have had a slew of orders all come in at once {thanks for the promo Someday Crafts!} I LOVE being able to send things out to everyone, but wanted to warn you this causes my inventory to slim down. I will try to fill all orders, but please be aware you may be contacted in the event your item has sold out. I hope this doesn't happen!

Happy weekend!

Ribbon Rings

2010-01-02T14:35:00.000-06:00

Falling madly in love with these flashy Ribbon Rings from Happy Together, tutorial found HERE. Great for moms and little girls who love to play dress up!

Nursing Bra's

2010-01-02T14:30:00.000-06:00

I have many pet peeves when it comes to baby products. I seriously think that real moms do not design things that are manufactured in stores. Good thing us crafty mama's come to the rescue and put out great tutorials to save us all one more headache.

Okay, enough with my ranting. On to my great find.

Nursing bras are the bane of my existence. I have yet to find one that fits well. One that doesn't make me look like I'm eighty, one that isn't too tight, etc. etc.

Mama's Worldwide has an excellent tutorial HERE on how to turn a regular bra into a maternity bra. Awesome!

I'd put in a picture, but I think we all get the idea...

My Mama Made It

2010-01-02T11:18:00.000-06:00

Want to start the New Year off looking as chic as possible? Hop over to
My Mama Made It for a Mom's only GiveAway!

HERE

Easy Car Seat Cover

2010-01-01T08:00:00.000-06:00

I think we've all probably seen this handy car seat covers - but somehow, whenever I'm out and about with my little Miss, I always get comments about it. So...I did some digging and found a tutorial that is easy and quick to follow.

A Little Tipsy has awesome instructions HERE and great pictures to guide you along.

This is an easy project - great for a novice seamstress - and it doesn't take long at all. Also, it allows you some options to jazz up your cover your style. I made my loops so they velcro together, then put bows on top of it to give it a more "put together" look.

Out with the OLD, In with the NEW

2009-12-31T01:01:00.001-06:00

We all know that our inbox's are overflowing with invites to some pretty fabulous New Year's Eve parties...of if you're more like me, not so much. I tend to kick it old school, by staying up with some treats, games, great company, and movies {all in my PJ's, of course} - minus the dressing up and drunk drivers.

Found these awesome party hats at Cathie Filian - probably won't make them, but it's on my list of things to do... And I think the little neighbor girls would look too darling in them.

Also, for some good conversation starters with the neighbors you keep meaning to get to know better, check out these FREE playing cards from Real Simple.

Hope you all have a fun-filled and SAFE New Year's Eve. Here's my toast to making 2010 the best crafting year ever!

My thanks for all your support in 2009!

Goals…Yet Again

2009-12-30T17:13:00.003-06:00

I heard somewhere that if you want to actually achieve your goals, you have to put them down on paper. Well, I don't really do paper -- I blog. So I thought in the spirit of the New Year I would share my list of goals with all of you so that I can't rescind you can all help me along the way.

It started out as a list of 50 - it went a little over. I have a feeling I will be adding more to it over time.

I had a list like this in high school, and so I've left off things I have achieved (or at this point, can't achieve) and have started my list anew.

What are some of your goals???

Graduate from college with at least a 3.7 GPA
Graduate with Honors
Go to graduate school
Retire after twenty years – still young enough to enjoy life
Love where I work and what I do
Actively participate in all my church responsibilities
Do at least one service activity each year
Never smoke, drink, do drugs, etc….
Run a marathon
Maintain a healthy food lifestyle
Reconnect with an old friend
Talk to someone in my family once a day
Go to church every Sunday
Pray every day
Read the entire Bible cover to cover
Read the BOM at least once a year
Attend the temple once a month
See Machu Picchu
See the Great Wall
See Australia
See the 7 wonders of the world
Travel to all 50 states
Travel around Europe
See the northern lights
Write a book
Bungee jump
Have a porch swing at my home
Ride in a hot air balloon
Meet a President
Buy some quality bookcases and organize all my books.
Get a bike and ride it every day for 3months.
Organize and print my personal photos.
Take Pilates
Donate time to a children's hospital
Blog every day for a year
Start or join a book club
Abstain from fast food for 3 months.
Learn to knit hats
Build something
Buy my dream home.
Do something nice for someone anonymously
Spend a night at a luxury hotel
Take a cruise
Resist the urge to go online for a month.
Invest in Real Estate outside of my own home
Write in a journal at least once a month
Donate old clothes and shoes once every 6months
Take the family to a circus
Reupholster a piece of furniture
Buy new furniture for the living room
Go sledding with the family
Be a mentor for someone
Get out of my shell more often
Work on listening more than I talk and not interrupting
Save 30% of what I earn for one year
Learn to maintain my car myself.
Design my home
Swim with dolphins
Raise happy, healthy, productive children
Actually learn to play the organ well
Be politically active
Run for a political office

Someday Crafts

2009-12-30T08:00:00.000-06:00

My Tiny Sweet Cheeks is being featured at Someday Crafts - and there might even be a giveaway.

Better go over there to see how to win!

HERE

I Know...But...

2009-12-26T15:24:00.002-06:00

"Thou shalt not covet."

I know it's against the rules and all, but some days wouldn't it just be so nice to come home to this. To escape from your crazy kids who decided to go swimming in the ~~swamp~~ backyard...

This week I've decided to tackle a project that has been irking me every time I enter my bathrooms. Please remember we rent, I do NOT want you think I let my own cabinets get this bad. So I'm painting them. These are the before, so check back in for the after. I'm using a guide from Just A Girl - who did an amazing buffet refinish. You should check her out!

2009-12-24T13:22:00.002-06:00

The stockings are hung, the rolls are all done
The kiddos asleep for a while
Kick back, relax - you deserve a few snacks
And celebrate Christmas in style!

{I never claimed to be a good poet...}

Merry Christmas everyone!!

Last Minute Gift

2009-12-23T13:19:00.003-06:00

Have you ever had someone bring you a gift and you feel the need to reciprocate? {Even though they may not have been on your list...}

These are so cute and I'm betting you have all the supplies on hand.

Check out these super easy, fun gift bags from Not So Idle Hands. She has a great how-to HERE.

Recipes

2009-12-22T13:58:00.005-06:00

After numerous requests for recipes, here they are!!

Yum Yum Coffee Cake

1 stick butter
1 C sugar
2 eggs
2 C flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 C sour cream
1 tsp vanilla

Filling:
1/3 C brown sugar
1/4 C white sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 to 3/4 C chopped nuts (optional)

Cream butter soft and add sugar. Add eggs one at a time and beat well. Sift flour, baking powder, soda, and salt together. Add dry ingredients alternately with sour cream. Stir in vanilla. Pour half of batter into greased 9x9x2 baking pan and cover with half of the filling. Repeat this step. Bake at 325*F for 45-55 minutes.

~~~

Apple Pie

Pie Crust
7 lrg apples (3 1/2 lbs) Granny Smith
1 C sugar
2 Tbsp flour
1 Tbsp cinnamon

Mix - put into 9" pie pan in bottom crust. 2 Tbsp butter on top of apples. Put top crust on. Poke top with knife. Bake 70 minutes at 350*F. I always put foil on a cookie sheet to bake it on -- otherwise, it will drip in your oven.

~~~

Crescent Dinner Rolls

3 C warm milk (warm in microwave 3 minutes)
1 1/2 cubes butter (not margarine -- warm in microwave until butter melts, approx. 1 minute)
3/4 C cold water
1 1/3 C sugar
3 eggs, beaten (add after cold water)
1 1/2 tsp salt
2 Tbsp SAF instant yeast
11 C white flour (approximately)

Mix all ingredients in mixer and knead for 8-10minutes. **Start with 3 C flour and dry ingredients. Mix together, add liquids, then more flour as needed until dough leaves side of bowl.

Raise dough for 1 1/2 hours in a large bowl that is sprayed with Pam. Punch down and raised for another 45 minutes. Divide dough into 3 balls. Roll out in a circle. Spread butter on dough and cut into pie-shaped wedges. (I use a pizza cutter).

Starting at large end, roll up into crescent shapes. let rolls raise for 30 minutes in *warm oven. Keep rolls in oven and turn oven to 400*F. Bake for 8-10 minutes. You might need to bake longer if you are baking two pans of rolls at a time. If oven is hotter than normal, reduce heat to 350*F.

As you can imagine, this makes a ton of BIG rolls. I have halved this recipe and it works great. Because it is time consuming (not hard) I usually only make this at Holiday Feasts! Enjoy...they are fabulous!

*A warm oven: preheat to lowest oven will go - when the rolls go in, turn the oven off.

The Beast

2009-12-22T13:51:00.003-06:00

"Honey, you're going to kill me..." are not the words you want to hear from your DH when he comes home from a quick trip to Wal-Mart.

I like to think I've trained my husband to be frugal, so those words days before Christmas sent panic to my heart. I quickly called out, "How much did you spend?"

"No, it was free!"

And that's how the beast came to join our house. It's massive {for only being 6 weeks old}. And I'm going to groan inwardly every time I look upon it. What was he thinking????

The Food Is Where It's At

2009-12-21T08:00:00.000-06:00

This week, it's all about the baking at my house. One of my favorite things about the holidays is food. We definitely have our fair share of food traditions at my house - these being some of our favorites!

Christmas Mornings - Yum Yum Coffeecake

Apple Pie

Homemade Crescent Rolls {to DIE for}

What are some of your favorite holiday treats? And how early do you have to get started on them? Tuesday is when we're starting around here...

If you'd like any recipes, just email! And just FYI, I do NOT make hard things. I just don't.

Washer Necklaces

2009-12-18T21:08:00.001-06:00

I'm thinking I want to learn how to make those CUTE washer necklaces/jewelry that's all over the place now. Seriously, it can't be that hard. Does anyone know where I can find the metal stamps though? I promise a tutorial out of it, if I can get my hands on some...

Claus Chronicles

2009-12-16T08:00:00.000-06:00

Ran across a blog I think anyone with older children (3+) who understand who Santa is should have a look at. Fun for kids and quite a hoot for adults to read. There is even a list of 100 things you should know about Santa. For instance, "My [Santa's] favorite color is not red. It is blue."

the Santa Claus Chronicles

Check him out -- All I'll say is, we BELIEVE at our house!

Ornaments & Decor

2009-12-15T14:35:00.003-06:00

Well, since I can't bring you anything I've been working on, I went on a search for some awesome Christmas crafts you can do with your kids. Now that I'm out of school, I'm looking for things to entertain all of us.

I found this Easy Fragment Ornaments tutorial HERE at I Love My 5 Kids. I totally made these when I was a kid and am so glad to have found out how to do it! Get this, mine still faintly smells - and I'm pretty sure I made it when I was 5 (19 years ago!)

I'm also loving these popsicle stick Trees from Michaels - tutorial found HERE. They are so cute with the polka dots and color scheme - not the traditional Christmas decor.

I think I'm going to have to go hit up my local dollar store or Wally World for some supplies.

2009-12-15T12:07:00.003-06:00

I am a hunter's widow this week. I was all set to be crafty and show you all the fun gift projects I have been working on and am getting ready to distribute. And my DH, bless his hunting soul, took my camera!!! What am I supposed to do? I don't even know how to craft unless I have pictures to go along with it. So, I am going to figure something out...what else am I supposed to do all week?

There is the potty training...

2009-12-14T14:38:00.001-06:00

I SURVIVED finals and am officially out of school for a month!

Yahoo!!!

Prepare yourself for many a project, coming up...

A Hat for the Kids

2009-12-09T15:39:00.006-06:00

So I've been meaning to post this hat tutorial for quite a while. Then I couldn't find my pattern. So I put it off for another while until I had the gumph to get to it. It doesn't take but 10 minutes to make this hat. Shame on me. So, grab some fabric and let's get to it.

Note, I made this hat out of some fleece I had lying around. I've also used knit fabrics and it works great! I would ere on the side of sizing smaller with knit though, as it tends to stretch more.

Get the pattern - I drew this out on an 8 1/2" x 11" piece of paper. Nothing fancy. My acrobat is acting up or I'd put it up for you. If I figure it out, I will post it.

First, place out your pattern. But piece A with a short side along a fold. This while be your brim. Cut out two of piece B. These will make up your hat.
Here's what you should have.
Stitch the hat (pieces B) together around the curved edge, leaving the straight edges open. Be sure to back-stitch. Then stitch the two short edges of piece A together, making a large loop.
Fold your loop in half so it's now half the width and the open edges are touching. Turn your hat right side out. Now pin all the raw edges together (it will be three thick).
Be sure to line up your seams for a clean, finished look. Stitch all the way around your hat to connect the two pieces.
Fold the brim down and you have a beanie hat.
**Optional: You can turn the hat inside out, and do a small stitch perpendicular to the seam to create a "four cornered" look.

Embellish any way you'd like. Sorry for my lack of a model, she was sleeping.

Tis the Season

2009-12-07T08:00:00.000-06:00

...for Christmas Cards!

Call me crazy, but I LOVE Christmas cards. I like seeing everyone in the pictures and reading the stories of what's happened to them over the past year. I expect to get a card from everyone I mail one to and if I don't, I feel very disappointed.

I think I put too much pressure on myself when it comes to Christmas cards. Granted, I do NOT hand-make 75 elaborate cards and send them out December 1st, but I do try to put some time and effort and thought into what I write. I want it to be charmingly witty, memorable and not braggy or boring. Do you see the pressure? And then enters into my mind thoughts like, "What if they don't even read my card? Or even really like us, for that matter?"

So, who do you send Christmas cards too? Family is an automatic yes. But what about the friends you think are friends, but you never get a card from them. Do you cross them off the list, or still send it out year after year? I just don't know...

Oh the pressure, oh the pressure.

And yes, I want your Christmas card too! I'll even send you mine if you convince me in an email that you aren't crazy or psycho.

Kids Outlet Online

2009-12-04T08:00:00.002-06:00

I'm a huge sucker for used kids clothing. I can't help it. I won't, well actually refuse, to buy anything unless it is on sale (preferably on clearance) and so used clothing is high on my list of buys. However, isn't it such a hassle to drag your kids out to the store and look through racks of unorganized clothing (and a smell that usually accompanies your hands out of the store!) Meet the solution! Kids Outlet Online. A gently used kids clothing store from the convenience of your home. Browse through tons of clothing organized by gender and size, order, and it shows up at your door. How great is that? Oh, and did I mention that shipping is a flat rate of only $5.95 for unlimited purchases?!?!?

Shelly, the owner of Kids Outlet Online, takes great pride in the clothing she selects and showcases, nearly all of them being practically new! Of course, if there happens to be a blemish it is fully disclosed, but I didn't come across any while perusing her merchandise.

A really cool feature Shelly offers is when you view clothing you can actually roll your cursor over the photograph and it acts as a magnifying glass.

I'd definitely head over her way and look for some name brand steals this Christmas Season. Remember it's new to your kid!

Just don't buy these shoes -- I'm in love with them!

Real or Fake?

2009-12-03T08:00:00.001-06:00

When it comes to Christmas trees, are you a real type of gal, or fake type of gal? I'm the proud owner of a pre-lit, artificial tree and I LOVE it. What it lacks in the pine smell department, it makes up for with no falling needles, no need to water, and no "character". But I want to hear the arguments for those of you hardcore tree people who trek up a mountain in the snow with all your kids and chop down your own tree. Make me a believer!

Then comes the decorating. What's your style? I'd have to say I lean towards the CLASSIC style...balls, white lights, a bow on top. {Actually, now that I look at my tree it kinda looks like a Patriotic tree...} But some are more NOSTALGIC with kids ornaments and popcorn strands. Some people are EXTREME when it comes to their trees and go way over the top - even have a theme. I want to see some of your trees. Send me a picture and we'll have our own Festival of Trees right here on My Tiny Sweet Cheeks. {Maybe your tree is only decorated from the top, up! Mine was last year...}

Just a sampling of my Christmas decor.

The balls are actually purple, silver, and blue -
but they really look red, white, and blue, huh?

I'm in the process of finding a fourth stocking for my little girl, but can't find one I like. Suggestions welcome.

My tiny village - it's a start, right?

Donuts

2009-12-02T18:43:00.003-06:00

I love donuts, but I can't get myself A. Out the door early enough to buy the good ones, and B. To spend the amount of money on them they ask. Here is a cheap way to get some good donuts in a short amount of time. In your pajamas no less!

Get Yourself a tube of biscuits. I'm cheap. Namebrand works just as well.
Cut the biscuits in half.
Fry them up in some oil. You want your oil set to about medium temperature, otherwise you'll burn the outside and the middle will still be doughy.
**TIP** Throw a pinch of salt in your oil and it won't spit at you while you fry.
Let them drain on some paper towels. Don't use my burned donuts as an example. I got distracted by a two year old.
Roll them in a sugar-cinnamon mixture.
Voila! Best hot, but still good cold.

Sequel to Yesterday

2009-12-02T18:34:00.001-06:00

...How I found my son last night when he finally was quiet.

All Mommy Wants for Christmas is...

2009-12-01T13:10:00.005-06:00

A Silent Night.

So I'm a major advocate of children who sleep through the night. I am not one for being so stringent that I can't handle minor changes in our routine, but I work hard training my kids in the beginning so that I don't have a meltdown as a mother. It may not work for all, but it has definitely worked for me.

Dun. Dun. Dun.

Can you even begin to imagine my dismay when my two year old turned on me? What the heck happened? He seems to be scared of the "dark" but I really think it's just more separation anxiety - hence, he doesn't want us to close the door. After a battle of getting him to sleep, he's up again between 2 and 3 and only wants to be with his daddy. We all know he loves him more, as you probably remember from this post.

Have any of you tackled this problem before? I am about at my wits end and need some advice. Thanks ladies!

An End

2009-12-01T12:56:00.004-06:00

Just wanted to finish up my 30 days of Thanks, since my illness kept me from the end of November. Can't wait to see what December brings!

~~~

Day 25
Nature.

Day 26
Our Founding Fathers. And Turkey.

Day 27
Fountain Drinks.

Day 28
Cars.

Day 29
Learning opportunities.

Day 30
Air conditioning. And Heaters.

2009-11-29T21:43:00.001-06:00

Sorry ladies, I have been sooo sick. {I'll spare you the details} Hope you had a Happy Thanksgiving...hope I'll be back on my feet soon.

National Family Week

2009-11-24T08:57:00.004-06:00

Day 24
My siblings.

~~~

In case you haven't noticed, I LOVE my family. Honestly, they are my best friends and I talk to all of them all the time. {Really I do, just ask my husband about our cell phone bill!} It wasn't always fun growing up with a large family {you know how kids bicker} but I can't imagine life without them and am so grateful we get to be together for eternity.

This is National Family Week. Take advantage and make some memories with your family and be sure to tell them how much you appreciate them!

Click on the links for some great information on Building a Strong Family, or Family Home Evening.

2009-11-23T08:00:00.000-06:00

Day 21
Epidurals.

Day 22
Humor and Laughter.

Day 23
Traditions.

~~~

This is the time of year when it seems so many family traditions start to come out of the wood-works and remind you of times past. We have some great family traditions, though some may be a little corny, I have such great memories of all of them!

- Vegetable soup and spider rolls on Halloween
- Watching a Christmas movie after Thanksgiving Dinner
- Yum Yum Coffee Cake Christmas morning - maybe I'll share the recipe :)
- Christmas Eve Dinner (as opposed to Christmas Day)
- Doing a service project on Christmas Day
- Renting a cotton candy machine New Year's Eve and letting all the neighborhood participate in the fun

I'm sure there are more, but my brain just entered into funk mode.

What are some of your family traditions???

2009-11-20T18:56:00.001-06:00

Day 20
A kitchen that's always full compared to many in the world.

~~~

For those of you who have never been to Cafe Rio, I feel sorry for you. Enjoy this homemade version of their Sweet Pork. It's nearly identical.

You need:
3 lbs. Pork
12 oz. Blended Salsa
1 can Coke
2 C Brown Sugar

1. Cook pork in crock-pot for approximately 5 hours.

2. Empty water and shred pork.

3. Place shredded pork back into crock-pot.

4. Add remaining ingredients.

5. Cook for another 3 hours and keep warm until served.

Tea Rose Home Mannequin Tutorial

2009-11-20T18:53:00.003-06:00

For reals? I am so in love with this. I don't even care that she thinks it isn't perfect. It's practically the most darling thing I have laid my eyes on in forever. If only I didn't think my little man would destroy it. But it's going in my stack of things to come once my little miss has her own room.

Check out Tea Rose Home HERE for more awesome ideas.

I can use this to make a mannequin! Just in case you want one, here is how I did it.

You will need:

Torch Stand
Wooden Dowel
One can of white spray paint(make sure that it is the kind that is made for metal and plastic)
Old blanket or Bath towels
Batting
Muslin
Iron or wood decorative top
Glue gun, needle and thread

How to:

1. Put the wooden dowel into the torch stand and tighten the screw. Spray paint the whole thing.

2. Cut several peices of 4" wide batting for the neck. Glue the first part to the dowel and start wrapping it tightly, until you get the thickness you want. You can either sew the end or glue it.

3. Using the same method, wrap the old towel or blanket to the dowel. I folded the old blanket and made it 15" tall for the body.

4. Add batting around the neck area to make a more natural and smooth look.

5. Cover the whole thing with batting. It was easier for me to sew it on to the body. I felt like I had more control and compared to using the glue gun, it is less permanent.

6. Cover the whole body with muslin. This part is a little tricky. Especially around the neck area. Sew the body part first, then the bottom and the top.

7. Around the neck area, you will need to cut some excess fabric off. Use the glue gun to secure the fabric to the top of the dowel as you make pleats.

8. I sewed lace around it.

9. Then, screw in the topper for the finishing touch.

10. Done!

and, the mannequin with some clothes on...

2009-11-19T08:00:00.000-06:00

Day 18
Music.

Day 19
Friends. New and old.

~~~

For the first time in a long time, I don't have to do Thanksgiving. Weird. I have hosted the event for the past three years, so it's nice to have a break. What is so weird about it, however, is that I don't have to do anything. Nada. Zilch. Usually when you don't host the feast, you still have an assignment. Not this year -- so I'll leave you to drool over the amazing Martha Stewart centerpieces that I would be working on (or tweaking to fit my schedule). And remember, there's still time for you to do the same.

THOSE days

2009-11-17T08:00:00.002-06:00

Day 17
Memories in the Making

~~~

Well, it's been one of THOSE days. You all know the one I am talking about. It started about midnight when Aniston refused to fall back asleep after nursing. I'm already deadbeat tired, thinking, "How can someone so small cause so much irritation?" And then she smiled and all my frustration melted away, but I was still tired. So I woke up my DH to take over...mwhaha...perks of him being a stay-at-home dad while I finish up school. I handed her off and hit the sack.

Then at two a.m. I heard Bryson screaming in his room. So I take the baby back (who is now sleeping peacefully ... Daddy's girl) and let him deal with the frantic "Daddy Daddy" resonating through the walls ... Daddy's boy. {Notice, nobody apparently wants me around.}

Eventually we made it through the night, through the day of school, made the Mickey Mouse cupcakes for the birthday party, set up the tool workbench, got the online test taken, paid the bills, read the mail, got both babies to sleep, and are left to our own accord for a few minutes until one of them wakes up.

I guess the best thing to do at this point is just saddle up and remember that sometimes that's all you can do. Bryson had a great birthday. Aniston is getting her sleep. And I have a hot, adoring husband, and beautiful kids. I suppose this day hasn't been so bad after all. Only thing that could have made it better was if I'd fit in some crafting somewhere...

Zippered Flowers

2009-11-16T08:00:00.001-06:00

Day 14
My health - and modern medicine for those days when I'm not up to par.

Day 15
All the great books in the world.

Day 16
Birthdays -- Happy Birthday to my 2 year old boy!

~~~

So I saw this necklace in a magazine and thought, "How cool is that?" It's chic and definitely something you don't see walking down the streets of Arkansas everyday. Maybe New York. But not Arkansas. So...rather than spend the $40 I set out for a tutorial on how to make one. I came across this sweet tutorial and chose to share it with you, because like its author, I agree all the other zippered flowers were too pointy. I LOVE that this girl is only 15 -- maybe we'll see her on Project Runway in a few years. Either way, enjoy! And put some old zippers to fashionable use!

Supplies

+zipper(s) with exposed metal teeth (the longer your zipper, the bigger the flower. I used several and sewed them together. Look for a bin of reject zippers in a fabric shop. They're much cheaper and work just as well.)

+scissors

+needle

+thread that corresponds to the color of your zippers

+an hour or two of your time

1. Unzip your zipper. Cut through the teeth on each side, as close as possible to the pull, on both sides. If you are using multiple zippers, do this to them as well.

2. On all except for one zipper half, cut the flap of fabric on the other end, as close as possible.

3. Take the one zipper half with the end flap remaining. Tightly roll the fabric flap to form the basis of the flower bud. Secure with a stitch or two.

4. Wrap the zipper around the bud, spiraling downward so the teeth do not overlap. Continue until the bud of the flower is the size that you'd like.

5. Fold the zipper fabric, making a little pleat, and secure it with a stitch.

6. Stitch the edge, near the fold, of the zipper fabric to the bud. Continue stitching and pleating, every half inch or so, wrapping the bottom of the zipper around. (I know this sound complicated, but I promise once you start you will get a feel for it)

7. Once you're through stitching your zipper, stitch the end of it to the middle of the backside of the rosette.

8. If you are adding another zipper half, simply stitch it where the other half left off. Continue until the rosette is the size that you'd like it.

My $3 weekend

2009-11-15T21:11:00.003-06:00

What I've been working on...and there's still more to come!

Foam Wreath and Book $2 {from Dollar Tree}

Stickers $1 {Dollar General}

Creative People

2009-11-13T08:00:00.000-06:00

Day 13
Truly creative people who inspire me daily!

~~~

This is definitely going to be one of my Christmas gifts being given away this year. I am so excited to have one. Doesn't it just give you that sheek, urban feel? You know the one, before your kids ruined it.

Scrunchy Scarf from Someday Crafts

Loving these blocks - indestructable for all those little hands you want to play with baby Jesus. Also, you can do your own variations and designs if you so wish!

Nativity Blocks from Making The World Cuter

This is such a beautiful, unique bracelet. Who cares if the pearls are real or not? All I know is, everyone will be wondering where you got it.

Lanvin Inspired Bracelet from Oh So Crafty

I know where this is hanging in my living room. And it's getting made this weekend.

Book Page Wreath from Mad Maggie Designs

P.S. Happy Friday the 13th!

Pumpkin Sheet Cake

2009-11-12T08:00:00.000-06:00

Day 12
Fall eats and treats!

~~~

I love the flavors of Fall (and the colors, and smells, and overall atmosphere!) But one of my favorite thing to do is eat! There are a lot of foods I only eat in October and November. Don't ask me why...I guess something about them just screams "FALL!" This is a super easy, super yummy pumpkin sheet cake, and lucky you, I'm sharing the recipe. This has actually replaced pumpkin pie on Thanksgiving at my house.

In a mixing bowl, beat 1 can (15 oz.) solid pack pumpkin, 2 C sugar, and 1 C vegetable oil.

Add 4 eggs, lightly beaten.

Combine 2 C all-purpose flour, 2 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/2 tsp salt. Add to pumpkin mixture and beat until well blended.

Pour into a greased jelly roll pan (15x10x1). Bake at 350* F for 25-30 minutes until the cake tests done.
While waiting, set out 1 pkg. of cream cheese and 5 Tbs butter to soften. I ALWAYS forget to do this!
Let your cake cool. Read a book. Take a walk. Blog!
For the frosting, I never do exact measurements, but I'll do my best to give you some. Beat the cream cheese, butter and 1 tsp. vanilla until smooth. Gradually add 1.5 C to 2 C powdered sugar. Add enough milk for the frosting to reach the desired spreading consistency. {Sorry, I guess I missed pictures for this step.}

Frost cake. And for those of you who ruin things with nuts, I suppose it's OK if you sprinkle some on top.

Here's the recipe again, minus pictures for your convenience.

1 can (15 oz) solid pack pumpkin
2 cups sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
4 eggs, lightly beaten
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp backing soda
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp salt

Frosting:
1 pkg (3 oz) cream cheese, softened
5 Tbs butter or margarine, softened
1 tsp vanilla
1.5-2 cups powdered sugar
3-4 tsp milk
chopped nuts (optional)

In a mixing bowl, beat pumpkin, sugar and oil. Add eggs, mix well. Combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt: add to pumpkin mixture and beat until well blended. Pour into a greased jelly roll pan (15x10x1). Bake at 350* F for 25-30 minutes until cake tests done. Cool.

For frosting, beat the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla in a mixing bowl until smooth. Gradually add sugar; mix well. Add enough milk until frosting reaches the desired spreading consistency. Frost cake. Sprinkle with nuts, if desired.

Happy Veteran's Day

2009-11-11T08:00:00.002-06:00

Day 11
For the men and women who give so much to serve our country

~~~

Check out these darling baby onesies from Cafe Press found HERE.

Knit Sweater Pillow Tutorial

2009-11-10T08:00:00.000-06:00

Day 10
A soft place to lay my head after a long day

~~~

Here's a great and easy tutorial to make a knit sweater pillow by My Mama Made It found HERE.

It's a great way to take a sweater of someone you love and memorialize them or an old sweater of your childs that you just can't give away.

Get whichever sweater you want.

Cut off the sleeves and any excess you may need to to create straight lines all the way around.

Turn the sweater inside out and pin it ALL the way around. We are going to sew all four sides shut because we will just stuff it from the front buttons. After pinning, Sew all four sides.

Turn the pillow right side out and open the buttons.

Get some stuffing and stuff the pillow as full as you like it.

Now, button the pillow back up.

Here's what it looks like!!

Didn't it turn out beautiful!! And it took me 15 minutes!

Here's the first one I did that's on my bed.

Staying In Love

2009-11-09T08:00:00.000-06:00

Day 7
My Faith.

Day 8
The ability to fly thousands of miles in just a few hours.

Day 9
For the wonderful husband I have.

~~~
Found HERE at How Does She?

1. Put the kids to bed early

2. Turn off the TV

3. Grab your sweet heart and ask him to dance (no one will be watching).

Click Here for the U-You Tube son g (It’s Free)

Fall deeper in love!!

2009-11-06T08:00:00.000-06:00

Day 6
Chunky baby legs that are cute naked or covered up.

~~~

I have been wanting some of those darling baby leg warmers, but am too stingy to play boutique store prices. You know me and thrifty go hand-in-hand. So, of course, I turned to my wonderful internet and found a tutorial HERE at Everything Your Mama Made and More. So glad resourceful women figure these things out for me.

I'm thinking of making a pair for myself too!

You Need:
Womens tube/knee socks (6m-6yr) or Womens crew socks (0-18m) Girls knee socks also work GREAT.
Sewing machine or needle & thread
Scissors
Pins

What to Do:
First cut the socks into sections as pictured below. You will toss the heel & toe scraps, but keep the bottom of the foot. Note: for this tutorial I am working with crew socks, but the process is the same as with tube socks.

Take the section remaining from the foot & you want to fold it inside of itself as pictured below. You should have the nice side of the sock on the outside & inside with a fold on one end & both raw edges on the other.

Stick the long section of the sock inside your newly created tube. This would give you 3 raw edges on the side we are going to sew, the other side will have the folded edge & the finished edge that was originally the top of the sock. If you have a pattern such as stripes or argyle as I used you may try to get them to line up. Once you are happy with the positioning pin together. Make sure to pin just 3 layers, not all 6 or you won’t have a hole to stick your little ones leg through when you are finished.

Time to Sew! Set the stitch length on your sewing machine to 4 (longest stitch), this will allow the most stretch. If the long straight stitch just doesn’t stretch enough for you can also us a narrow zig zag stitch… width at 2 & length at 3. You want to stretch the pinned side over the arm of your sewing machine & sew a straight stitch all the way around. If you can’t get it to stretch over then you can use what ever method you use to sew circles normally, or you can simply stitch it together with a needle & thread the old fashion way.

OPTIONAL Your finished seam should look similar to this. For a cleaner more professional look you can use pinking sheers, a zigzag stitch, or serge the seam for extra strength & to prevent unraveling.

Then simply fold the trim down (putting the seam inside) & TADA… a baby & toddler leg warmer simply make another one & test them out on the nearest happy child!