Val the Crafty Gal

New shelf

2011-08-11T10:24:00.000-10:00

I realize Ive been "gone" for a long time! I have some sewing projects to post and random things Ive bought ---however, my camera is broken. Until that gets fixed -I'll post some older things.
Like this shelf! I found it at the thrift store and liked it because it was metal.

I took down one of my other frames to hang this.

Eventually I put the picture closer to the shelf..but I cant take a picture of it because, well you know...

Hum, looks better in person!

Our Cardboard Chart

2011-06-22T07:52:00.000-10:00

Its summer time and with that- comes alot of time hanging at home...with sibling rivalry, etc...
I had the kids sit down while I wrote what we should be doing this summer and they came up with game plan..
Here it is.

So far, so good.

I'm a winner!

2011-06-14T08:21:00.000-10:00

I read the DIY showoff blog and today I found out I won something!! What a great way to start the day!!
I had to guess what number her post was, on her two year anniversary-I was the closet guess.So excited! You'll have to check out her blog-lots of pic's and inspiration!
Here's what I read today on her blog...

The person closest to guessing the number of the Anniversary blog post (781) without going over is...

valthecraftygal

Val wins a custom vinyl monogram!

~*~*~*~CONGRATULATIONS!~*~*~*~

Yeah Val wins!

First Library Card

2011-06-07T12:10:00.000-10:00

The summer reading program just started at our public library. The older two had picked out their books, and got out their cards. Sawyer didn't have one -so the librarian told him, if he could write his whole name and fit it on the white space on the back of the card-he could get his own.

She gave him a piece of paper with little boxes (to practice on first) then when he had stayed in the space allowed, he was given a permanent Sharpie Marker to write on the "real deal" card.

Needless to say- he did it! He's very happy, and very excited, to get more books.

Something New

2011-06-07T11:07:00.000-10:00

Can you tell what this is? I am learning something new!

Knitting! The pastor's wife stared a easy knitting class two times a month and this is what I did last night...

I know its not much to look at, and scarves aren't too practical in Hawaii, but I like learning new things.

I love that this skein of yarn is proudly made in the USA. (That little flag had me at Hello.)

The yarn is called Buff Fleck...

- I think it's a close relative to my kitchen granite!

Maybe I just tend to pick things that are natural/neutral in color.

One day this shall be finished!

Transporter Biker

2011-06-06T17:16:00.000-10:00

A couple months ago my next door neighbor's son outgrew his Transporter costume, so he gave it to Sawyer.
Sawyer likes all Superhero/costume related items. Although it isn't anywhere near Halloween,

he promptly put it on...

...then went outside

to ride his bike in style.

His own style.

Our Grand Waikiki Hilton "Staycation"!

2011-06-04T14:41:00.005-10:00

Be prepared---I am going to post alot of pictures about this staycation!!

A great friend blessed my family with three FREE nights at the Hilton, in Waikiki. It was AWESOME- to say the least. This place was beautiful-and it felt so luxurious. A tour-this was going out towards the main lobby and pool, etc..

Passed by this fountain...

giant painted canvas of Heleconia plants...

Carved wood panels-

more panels..

some interesting wool carpet...

A very tall hutch showcasing Hawaiian artifacts,

and weapons.

Woven headdress

Hawaiian gourds...

Large flower arrangement

seating area by elevator...

and wood panel above elevator (told you, lots of pics)

The mirror by elevators- I love all this wood work.

Now-our 3 Room/Suite! 17th floor.

Let's take a tour...Living room,
walking into room...

another angle.

...flat screen #1 & door to kids room.
(We don't have cable, so flat screens all through this place was a big treat for all of us) Lots of HGTV watching!

Dining room

sconce and mirror detail.

Full kitchen, microwave, oven, fridge,etc...

the tile accent on kitchen back splash...

Kid's Room left of living room...

watching flat screen #2 (Lots of Cartoon Network)

Kids bathroom

Master bedroom...

wood detail on bed.

turning to left, facing the balcony,armorie' and flat screen #3. (Lots of History channel and the military channel)

Detail on armorie'.

Master bath

Huge sunken tub and shower stall.

Sawyer enjoying the huge tub!

Flower tile detail around tub.

On to the outside...

Our view out on the long balcony- looking to the left

center...

and to the right- beach, and lagoon.

Hi Sailboat!

To the right, looking down at the lagoon by day...

and then at night-they even had fireworks on Friday evening!!!!!!!!! The kids were so excited and surprised--it was excellent sitting out watching the show up close.

First morning -we went out to the hotel pool & water slides!

The slides and hot tub...

Lily...

Levi...

and Sawyer. He opted to sit in the hot tub, and watch them slide down.

There is another larger pool that the kids went swimming in..

Lily was sweet and pulled Sawyer all around all day.

He got a little braver and tried to go out by himself.
(Swim lessons this summer)

Eventually they were all hungry...

and tired...

so we went back to the room and I cooked dinner.

(I had planned a "menu" & bought food to make meals for the three days we were there.)

Next day -on to the lagoon and pool.

Brian rented a paddle boat for an hour and

gave them all a turn around the lagoon,

I even tried it, then Levi asked the rental place if he could trade/rent a kayack for the last 1/2 hour.
So all of us tried it out.
Levi and with dad...

Lily with Dad...

and Sawyer with dad.

I tried it out with Lily...exhausting!!
Levi decided to use it as a paddle board the last bit we had it.

To finish off this wonderful "Staycation" -I give you this video of a hula girl and musicians that were in the hotel lobby on Saturday! Aloha!

Ukulele & hat love

2011-06-03T16:45:00.000-10:00

Sawyer got a ukulele for his birthday and he LOVES it ALOT. He thinks he is quite the singer - because he plays it and makes his own music.

Caught him in the living room and tried to catch pic's.

He closes his eyes and really "gets into it" when he's singing. Funny.

When we were at Walmart he had some birthday money and when we walked by the clothing on the way to toys he asked for this hat. He's worn it to school

and the beach. Loves it too.

A future Jack Johnson maybe.

What do a bike, a monkey and a baby have in common?

2011-06-02T10:17:00.000-10:00

Why-they're all cards I've made of course!

This bicycle was from a Stampin' Up! Summer mini set Pedaling Past.-

I used Real Red and Baja Breeze paper for a more retro feel.

I also used a button, some gingham ribbon

and added rhinestones for a little bling.

I love this Sock Monkey stamp set. This set is set to be discounted (email me if you'd like to get one before it goes away)

I used some older decorative paper for his body, and I am trying to use up more of my button stash!

Last, the cute baby in a baby carriage.
I used a Spellbinders label die for the white label shape,

and added a pearl to center of each wheel. Plus I love this yellow polka dot paper.

Rearrangment time!

2011-06-01T09:38:00.001-10:00

I cleaned up the lanai after the wedding rehearsal dinner, and was starting to put back all my outdoor furniture-then decided to rearrange it!

I moved the buffet table to the center to divide the seating, eating areas.

I put out my new candles and glass votives...

and I put our little growing pineapple on top of the table. Cute isn't it!

Close up shot.

My candles.

My wood shell. Clearance - Ross. I was waiting to use this someplace in my house for quite awhile.

A New Game

2011-06-01T09:15:00.000-10:00

Brian bought this game awhile ago, for Levi and Him to play because it reminded him of the game Risk. Axis and Allies

The neighbor boys came over and Levi set it up outside..

I liked the fact it was an actual game-not a computer game.

It took awhile to set up, and kept their attention most of the day.

Shell napkin rings

2011-06-01T09:03:00.000-10:00

I bought these place mats at the thrift store

and there was a woven flower on the side.

After the flower was unwoven, I ironed out the braided basket material. Does that make sense?

Then I cut it into pieces and hot glued them together.

The plastic bumpy part is on my ironing board pad for the iron to sit on -because it can handle heat, I hot glued on this.

My husband brought a bag of smaller size shells home to me last year, I finally decided to use them!

I tried to hide the edge, then I glued the shells to the ring.

On the plate.

Ready for their close up shot.

Ready for dinner.

Beach Inspired Table

2011-06-01T08:35:00.002-10:00

I found some light blue glass candle sticks at the thrift store that inspired me to set my outdoor table in beach/coast theme. Plus my son keeps bringing home bits of driftwood and adding to my jar collection.

I started with my old linen table cloth.

Put bamboo runner in center, to cover the worn spot.

Added 4 round woven place mats. (purchased from the thrift store)

My natural colored plates-also from ...yes, the thrift store.

Cloth napkins-clearance Walmart. I made the napkin rings (will show that on next post)

Added candle (container from Ross ) and small Pottery Barn votives (from the thrift store)

River rocks from Ben Franklin Craft Store.

Starfish from a local store here- I bought them one at a time, $3.00 each.

My glass floats are from Oregon. I was raised on the coast and would go out with my dad very early in the morning and look for them -now the floats are made of plastic- these are very special to me.

My glasses I found -thrift store-I love the pale blue green color.

Candles, driftwood and flatware added-all done!

We ate outside -very enjoyable evening. The family loved it.

Outside Wedding Rehearsal Dinner

2011-05-31T20:17:00.013-10:00

One of our favorite children's teacher ( Miss Buettner) just got married! I offered to help out any way I could, and she asked if I would host the wedding rehearsal dinner for their families who were coming from the mainland. I said sure! They gave me money for all the food, and I knew I could work some inexpensive magic outside on my lanai.

I ordered local food from Keneke's - Mahi Mahi with Butter Cream Macadamia Nut sauce,
Shoyu Poke, Island BBQ chicken, egg rolls, dry hot wings, sliced purple sweet potato, and brown rice. I went to Costco and purchased the salads, pineapple, mango, papaya and to Foodland to buy the Hawaiian sweet rolls,and desserts! Lilikoi chiffon cake, pineapple macadamia cheesecake, and chocolate haupia pie.
Yum.

I took one of my bamboo frames and put their wedding announcement inside, then placed it in the center of the table.

I went outside and cut some Heliconia, tea leaves, ginger, birds of paradise and ferns for added color.

I moved my rattan table out to the right side of the covered lanai for the drinks.

For the drink table, I had ice tea, ice water with lemons, and of course-POG! Pineapple, orange and guava juice.

I rented 3 tables and some folding chairs...
which I set up on the lanai.

Then I placed the white tablecloths....

Because I don't have lights outside, I added 3 candle holders on the center of each table. (I bought the middle and smaller size candle holders off of Craigslist.)

Then I placed the napkins and a set of bamboo chopsticks at each place setting.

I added plumeria flowers we picked in the afternoon, for color.

Yellow plumeria flowers around the candles. Very fragrant!

Bright pink with dark orange centers!

White with light yellow centers..

Small party favors- chocolate covered macadamia nuts at each setting.

All the candles lit up!
Hawaiian music playing lightly in the background...

Sun starting to set...

Almost party time.

Waiting on the guests to arrive.

When the guests arrived, I didn't take any pictures.

But here is after the party, while I was cleaning up.

Bride in the middle, cousins on the sides. Tired, happy, & excited.

Very happy night. She said it was perfect. Mission accomplished!

Welcome Home Celebration cards

2011-05-31T15:23:00.003-10:00

These are the cards I made to coordinate with the celebration party pack I sent to my daughter in law, on behalf of my son's service overseas, and their May birthdays.
I used the scallop edge punch on the bottom of the card.

I embossed the blue paper with my Cuttlebug wallpaper embossing folder.

I stamped the star onto Red Riding Hood paper and then used my star punch to punch out the shapes.

Added silver brads for masculine bling.

Used S.U. Red Riding Hood ribbon at the top and tied the word celebrate onto the ribbon.
Here are the invites and the fabric banner. Cousins.

Celebration Time!

2011-05-31T12:54:00.012-10:00

I made a celebration packet for my son's welcome home party. (He was deployed for 7 months and even missed his second son's birth.) My daughter in law wanted Americana colors for the celebration-red,blue,tan and white and both their birthdays fall near Memorial day in May.
I love a color inspiration challenge!
I went to the thrift store and picked out sheets. (we don't have a fabric store handy and the sheets run $1.99 each!)
I found so many navy and brick red options.

Online I found a fabric banner template (triangle)

I set the template on each sheet, and cut out four flag shapes per sheet.

All the fabric cut out ...

Now, all sewn ...

then turned right side out.

Pressed flat and ...

sewn onto home made bias tape. (I used strips of the blue sheet).

One big banner family!

Here are the blue plastic plates, a tablecloth (Ralph Lauren Queen sheet), red cups, white utensils, invites, and the flag banner.

Little flags from Pier 1 last year. Thought these would look cute in the hamburger or hot dog buns.

Invites with party supplies.

For a faithful military wife's party...

to celebrate he husband's return.

Welcome Home Garrett!! I am thankful for your service!

Here's a picture of the dining room at their party.

New picture for my bathroom

2011-05-31T09:31:00.008-10:00

I got this picture from Ross for $5.49. I liked the frame but didn't need the coffee picture inside.

I took out the picture...

I put this 1980's postcard ( Oak tree- Snowstorm, Yosemite National Park, 1948 Ansel Adams)

inside the frame.

Then hung it right above towels and bathroom essentials.

Looks great in my bathroom, (window glare on picture.)

and frames the postcard perfectly.

Who knew?

2011-05-31T09:06:00.004-10:00

Couple weeks ago I caught a "masked man" in my backyard ...
golfing!

"Spidie" golfs?

Who knew!

Easter Card

2011-05-31T08:38:00.006-10:00

A card I made using the Stampin' Up! Easter Blossom stamp set.

I added some vintage buttons as accents.

The decorative paper is by October Afternoon.

I shaded the sides of the image.

All complete.

Funny Money

2011-05-31T08:15:00.003-10:00

Sawyer really wants to buy a monster truck he saw at Costco-I told him he has to wait till Christmas or do chores, make some money and save till he can buy it.

After a bit of time, came up to me and handed me this, and asked if I could take him to the store.

back...

Front...

Close up

Ten dollar bill !

"Money!"

He said "I made some money -can we go buy it now?"

Very cute- but I need to explain "making money" - I see.

A bag for baby Ryder

2011-05-31T07:19:00.014-10:00

A friend's daughter, had a baby girl , so I decided to make her a "one of a kind" tote bag for the beach, or a playtime outing, etc...
Her baby shower invite was pink, black, and white - so that became my color "inspiration".
I didn't want a plain canvas tote bag but a hot pink one, which I found at Walmart in the craft section. (Package of three bags- I can make two more now!)

I wanted to make the baby a "rad" blanket that wouldnt look like anyone else's, and I found flannel zebra print fabric! Perfect.

I also wanted to add some "bling", so I bought this fleur de lis rhinestone embellishment.

When I couldnt find any black iron on letters, I bought black iron on patches instead...

....and I took them to my scrapbook store and used the Accucut 2" die cut letters to cut out her name.
>

For a little added sophistication I bought this zebra print scarf.

I started by ironing her name at the top of the bag.

Then I ironed on the rhinestone embellishment.

I tied the zebra scarf to the handle...

and I attached the black key chain tag to the handle as well. (pic of big brother holding her)

Now what did I put inside?...

A couple of things for when she is older...

An OP terry cover up...

a flower hair band...
Some pink, Cammi flip flops ...

a hot, pink fish to play in the sand or water...

plus a nice, soft (pre-washed fabric) blanket.

All together now....

All done!

Hope she liked it!

Husband's Easter "Basket"

2011-05-31T06:51:00.005-10:00

I'm back! I have been crazy busy --but I also took tons of pic's for my blog!

I'll start with my husband's Easter "basket"---he isn't into a bunch of candy, and I knew he wouldn't use a basket for anything after Easter, so when I spotted this Starbucks mug at the thrift store-I knew it'd work perfectly as a "basket".

I liked the "look" of this mug and it was wide enough to fit little things inside.

I had green, wood excelsior in my stash of craft supplies,

and I made a little nest in the mug.

I bought a coffee card and two Cd's for his gift.

I already had clear bags on hand , so I put the mug inside a bag

and made an Easter tag to tie on the outside.

Then I put the coffee card in the mug, plus a chocolate bunny and a little chick.

It worked out great.

Close up of tag-I inked the edges to shade it a bit.

Few more pics...

Oh-also put in a Cadbury egg.

April Fool's Day Fun - After School

2011-04-03T22:21:00.010-10:00

I heard about this from my sister -edible crayons out of pretzels and chocolate, so while my kids were in school, I went to "town" so to speak. My accomplices to make the fake out crayons...- Food coloring, bread sticks (because my store didn't have the pretzel rods-weird) and Heat and Mold candy.

Took out my new Pampered Chef paring knife to slowly shave the bread sticks into a point.

Slowly is the word on this because I broke a ton! Like all these.

Starting to build a nice supply...

Look, 12 per "box" (or so I thought I could do) Hum-didn't happen.

I put the white candy into different mugs-then heated mug-one at a time in the microwave.

I had to stir right away ..

Then add the food coloring.

Then I had to dip in the bread sticks. Problem-the candy cools down SUPER fast and it would not stick very well to the bread sticks. If I reheated it, it burned the candy-I went through tons of sticks and heating and ARGH!!!!!!!! is all I can say.

Here's all the bread sticks with the frosting on the ends.. had some break on me too.

I printed out these "crayon" labels ( I found online) onto different colored construction paper.

Took my paper trimmer and cut them out..

then wrapped them around my "crayons". I used double stick tape to adhere.

Found this template online-I printed it out on yellow construction paper.

then cut it out, and folded it on the fold guidelines,

Then I took my hole punch and notched the back of the box-like the real boxes have.

I printed out the front cover of a real Crayola box-then glued it to the front on my homemade box. 5 fat "crayons" fit perfectly inside.

Here are two boxes ready to be eaten.

Little crayons so cute and fake.

Someones really happy and likes to eat crayons. (Well, the candy at the end of the stick anyways)

Enjoy! because I will never make these again. I will leave the melting, dipping and stirring to someone else next year. But that smile was worth it!

April Fool's Day Fun- At School

2011-04-02T12:28:00.013-10:00

I decided to "fool" my kids while at school- by switching up their food in their lunches.After they had gone to bed- I printed these "Donut Seeds Packets" off the Internet (Family Fun Mag) and I put Cheerios inside. ( I didn't have frosted Cheerios) Very easy to do..

Next I wrapped up their sandwiches and put them in foil and then used double stick tape to put the "label" on the bag. (Labels from Family Fun as Well)

I then placed the bags in an empty popcorn box.

I turned an Animal Cracker box upside down and opened it carefully...

Poured out all the crackers and...

put in Banana Chips.

Took my double stick tape and closed it right back up.

Hummm- good as new!

Then I did the same thing to their chip bags...

Poured out chips-cleaned, washed, and dried the inside.

Then put fluffy bunny marshmallows inside!

I bought Dr. Pepper jelly Beans-and opened the first bottle-(but used an Exacto knife to open the second bottle) poured out jelly beans

and put dark Plum Sweets-one by one- in the bottles. Took For-ev-er.

I took scotch tape and wrapped it around the lid, then took my embossing heat gun and "shrunk" it on the lid-can't even tell it was opened! Ta DA!

For my unsuspecting husband-I opened the apple chips bag ( from the bottom) and replaced the chips with the Maui Onion chips.

Then, very late at night, I went to bed. The kids were very surprised. I was the only mom who packed a trick lunch and all the kids kept saying "Open that bag!, "See what's in that one!" They loved it!

They couldn't figure out how I did the bottles, or the boxes that were glued on top. Lily thought I had bought special "April Fools Day " food.

Unfortunately I forgot to send "real food" so they were both hungry after school.

The best thing was my husband didn't get I had switched the chips! He told me ( and I quote) " Don't buy those apple chips any more -its a waste of money because they taste just like NORMAL potato chips" Ha ha I fooled him! Yes! I made a pretend dinner and some crayons for Sawyer. I'll post those as well.

Merry Christmas! Val

A Bag for Phinn

2011-03-21T08:18:00.007-10:00

My nephew's little boy is turning one soon.
I wanted to give him a useful gift, but something personal as well, so I decided on a canvas bag-with a felt applique. I choose an owl because I had sewn one on my Ben Franklin shopping bag last year-and had all the felt to make another. Plus they're cute.
I used 70's retro colors for this look.
First drew out the owl on computer paper...

I free hand cut everything..not perfect but works.

tan felt for the body

Orange felt for the chest...

Brown felt circles for the eyes..

Sizzix die used for the flower shapes...

Free hand cut outs for the letters...

wanted them to look like a school font.

All the letters cut out.

Sewn pieces together...

then everything sewn onto bag ...!

(Branch added so the owl would have a place to perch)

What's in the bag?....

Something to wear-2 shirts (monkeys & Little Brother)

Something to hold-Stuffed Jaguar

Something to read- Fred and Ted Book

Something to roll-wood truck

Something to touch-farm puzzle

Something to carry.

All sewed on-so not perfectly!

Phinn's

Owl

bag.

The end.

Vincent VanSawyer

2011-03-20T22:48:00.003-10:00

This is what Sawyer did for almost 4 hours...

He drew and drew and drew some more.

Mighty Sponge Bob with spatula. His "friend" on her towel.

Last-his garden-with watermelon, pineapple,"salad", carrots, oranges, tomatoes, apples, corn, and bananas.

Plus he drew a "book" with every kind of Batman he could think of- (too many to post for now)!

Felt Owl Thank you cards

2011-03-20T22:29:00.005-10:00

This was so easy and inexpensive.

I bought these felt owls for $2.49-sticky backs and all.

I used my Stampin' Up bird punch and chocolate chip paper to make branches.

I glued the branches on a package of blank note cards that I already hand on hand.

Then we peeled off the paper and stuck the birds on the branches.

4 down...

8 done...

All addressed and ready to be mailed!.

Completed project-maybe 20 minutes?

Sundae Party

2011-03-18T19:42:00.009-10:00

Yeah! Finally! I got a new camera cord... so I could download pictures!!!

... Lily's actual birthday fell on a weekday- so I decided to have a Sundae party for her.
(Well that, and I saw these free labels on Amy Moss's website and it motivated me to use them!) I typed out what things we'd be using for the sundaes...
then printed them...

Then I "hand" cut out the labels-not the "fun " part at all... I know that's how punches were invented! Next I got out scrapbook paper and glued the labels to the paper.

I found these small sundae dishes for a couple bucks and used them for the various toppings...

She wanted Gummi bears, Reese's, Chocolate chips and I got coconut for the hubby.

Ready to go on the counter..

Close up of nut toppings, chocolate syrup and whipped cream.

Thrift store sundae spoons.

labels placed -all done..

Strawberry, caramel syrup, & cherries. I measured the length of the jars, then used double stick tape to adhere the paper and labels.

Milkshake glasses from thrift store.

Ice cream! ( in the background)

Toppings out...

Love the colors.

I'm going to try to find more dishes this size-perfect for the littler ones...

Banana's too-pink Fiestaware bowl.

All set up -waiting on family before I put out the rest..I used her banner and the tablecloth and box from her other party...

Birthday girl!

Everything is out -ready to dig in!

Set up went pretty quick,-toppings were gone quickly too!

Now your turn.

Irish Eyes A Smilin'!

2011-03-17T12:39:00.003-10:00

So funny-Connor smiles like his daddy! My two McCutie's!

An Irish blessing for you!

2011-03-17T10:02:00.002-10:00

A little confession...I hated my hair growing up.
My hair is darker now-more auburn, but growing up it was definitely red and I hated it! I got called "Irish setter" in school and I hated any/all references to anything "red".

Now that I'm older I LOVE my hair. I get asked all the time if I dye it, or what color did I use etc.. and I'm happy to reply-"Its Au' natural."

In ode to all things Irish-have a blessed day!

No camera cord thingy

2011-03-16T16:21:00.005-10:00

I can't download photos of some crafts/cards lately until I get a new camera cord that attaches to the computer...I'm posting a sweet pipe cleaner girl Lily made for Sawyer awhile back...

Enjoy.

Cute little chair she's sitting in ...

Barrette Party Favors

2011-03-08T22:15:00.005-10:00

For Lily's Party I decided to make flower barrettes for all the girls. I bought a "bouquet " of Gerber daisies and a package of barrette backs...

I took the flowers off of the stems

and also took off the back of the flower

I removed the plastic stem ...

and the plastic underneath the flower center on front as well...

Then I took out the barrettes

put a generous amount of glue on the metal ...

and glued one petal, at a time, to the barrette.

After all the petals were glued on ...

I glued the center of the flower.

In less than an hour, all 13 barrettes were done!

So pretty!

Ready to be put in the goody bags!

Time to "party".

Lily's "Tea' Birthday Party

2011-03-08T07:23:00.030-10:00

(There are alot of pictures in this post-if you click on the picture-it gets bigger)
...It all started with this "wood confectionery set" I got for $4.98 at Pier 1 Import. I decided to throw Lily a Tea Party Birthday Party. She wasn't interested in tea at all, and wanted lots of games to play... but when I convinced her I'd plan some games, and it would be colorful, and beautiful - she was all for it.

I used the colors of the set for inspiration and decided to use my flower dishes for the place settings-just to keep it fresh and young.
I made tags for the candy jars using my paper and punches,

made some cupcake tags,

and some tags and pink paper bags for the goody bags and prize bags. ( The tags read "You Won!" and "Thank You")

Here are the goody bag prizes...

barrette and pony tail holders...

candy...

and erasers, pencil and pad.

All placed in these... (Martha Stewart punch used for edge of bags)

I bought these resin frames at the thrift store to place on the dining table...

I made a banner for behind the table too. (Used my Sizzix Big Shot and my Stampin' Up! banner die cut)

Lily helped get the food table ready. Ribbons on "her" chair. ( My friend April came over and she took some excellent shots for me )

Dining table ready-waiting on the guests...

Close up of table...

vase, flowers, & butterfly

tags on the straws

3 weeks baby picture...

4 years old

7 years old & rose frame...

Another-Aerial view of table...
Now---the moment for the Food table! LOTS OF PICTURES!

Ta-DA!

A front shot... I used my white square dishes, my apothecary jars, and my Martha Stewart cake plates.

Blurry-but a closer shot.

I bought the tissue puff balls and the yellow tablecloths at Price Busters. I covered a bulletin board for the backdrop. Wish it would have been larger.

table before all the food...

(setting up)

food gift bags

right side

candy dots, taffy, jelly beans and tea cookies.

cupcakes ( the icing started "melting"-I tried to fix them-didn't look so hot)

gift bags in a row, pineapple, cookies, candy and a little label that said "turkey cheese"

gum for the girls...

jelly beans close up...

Marshmallows, jelly beans, taffy, animal cookies..

another shot (empty cupcake glass jar for Lily's cupcake)

Her friend Rayn set up the grapes & cookies for me-excellent job!

girls waiting to eat and for guests to arrive..

friends talking...

table ready-right before eating

Lily and a cupcake right before singing...(she's totally embarrassed) Tag read "Birthday Girl"

table of food before...

table after!
They loved it and had a great time.

I was exhausted but glad she loved it!

Thanks for stopping by!

Tea Party Invites

2011-02-28T01:22:00.008-10:00

We're having a Tea Party for Lily's 11Th Birthday in March.

Tonight I made the invitations.
First I drew a rough sketch of a cup, then cut it out of computer paper...

I traced it onto cream card stock ...

then cut it out...

I retraced the shape onto scrapbook paper (but didn't include the handle part) and cut it out of the paper. I used an Exacto knife to cut out the handle part...

I also cut out another piece of paper for a decorative edge on the "cup".

Then I shaded every piece with my Chocolate Chip ink...

After shading, I glued the pieces onto the card stock.

I cut out a "paper tea bag" and took my Exacto knife and cut a slit in the tea cup- for the "tea bag" to fit into to.

I made sure to only cut threw the top part of the cup!

I glued the two pieces together, then took some twine and cut it into small lengths for the bag. (Even the twine I got from the thrift store is special -it says "Lily!!"

I stamped the words onto the paper tea bag, and wrote in the details...

12 all done!

I also wrote Tea Party on the little tag..

Ready to go out tomorrow!

Now onto the game planning...hum.

No time to craft because of this!!

2011-02-27T21:14:00.006-10:00

As a "crafter" I love to make, fix and alter things...however, when my craft space and garage becomes MESSY and I neglect to clean or organize it, and when it becomes the "catch all room" in my house-I "freeze up" in the crafting department .

I feel overwhelmed to go "out there' then get bummed not using this great space for me-and the stuff takes over.

I'm posting these gross pic's because last weekend my husband and I spent the WHOLE weekend (minus church) working on this space. We started taking everything outside-looked as if we were moving or having a yard sale!-because we sorted and purged all day.

We put our Christmas boxes up, and our other "keepsakes", and he organized all his tools, supplies, etc...

Now-you can see all the way inside!

All the Lego boxes and ladders and our little book case fit!
...Early Monday morning I went to the dump, thrift store, resale building supply store, and recycling center dropping off our "stuff".

My tables for stamp class, and all my extra decor items and craft supplies....

The neatest thing , I think, is we made a space for shelves that allowed me to put all our games out, and my TV, DVD,and VHS player, so I can watch movies while crafting or the kids can watch while playing games or working on school projects, etc...
Miss Lily's keyboard is outside where she practices uninterrupted too.

I'm so inspired to get out there now!

I'm working on Lily's birthday invitations tonight!! Tea party pictures to come...

Hide your permanent markers...

2011-02-24T08:21:00.006-10:00

I'm cleaning my house today-so instead of posting a craft project-I'm posting some pictures of a child who took a sharpie marker, drew on himself, then said, "I'm Tiger Boy".

White toothpaste helped get it off, but I still suggest hiding your markers and checking on "very quiet" children...just saying.

Happy Valentines Day!

2011-02-14T17:53:00.002-10:00

Here's a little vintage Hawaiian Girl..

sending Happy Hearts your way!
Remember God Loves you all the time everyday!!

The Making of a Valentine's Couples Dinner Tradition

2011-02-13T13:29:00.017-10:00

Be prepared-LOTS of pictures and a very long post...
Last year I had our first "couple's potluck", where we invited some couples over (without any of our children) and had a potluck together. After eating, we played a question and answer game- "How well do you know your spouse?" - then we compared our answers to that of our spouses. We laughed and laughed over our answers, and each others comments, and had an absolutely great time. This year I decided to have another Couples Valentine dinner-but do it a little differently.
I changed it up, by having us all sit together at the dinner table. I also wanted to make it as formal, romantic and "fancy" as possible. When I told my girlfriends my idea- they were all for it!
In the morning, before the party, it was raining, and the sound was super appealing, and peaceful and set the mood. It was so fun getting the table all prepared.

I started with a 102" fabric tablecloth that I found on clearance for $9.00. I felt blessed to get it, as it was the last one that length, and originally around $25.

I placed my gold clearance Christmas chargers on next. (Ignore the water spots from my iron-they eventually went away)

I purchased a dozen roses from Safeway and divided them into two bunches...

and got out my .99 thrift store vases...

and some ribbon and straight pins.

Then I placed a rubber band around the first bunch of roses...

and wrapped a piece of ribbon around and around to cover it. Afterwards I took a straight pin to hold it in place.

When I put them in the vases, I only filled it half way with water.

Second group of roses...

I placed them on the table, as well as my Ross store clear vases and candles.

I had bought these little tea light holders on clearance from Pier Import...

and had this box of tea light candles handy, that I got two years ago from Salvation Army!

So I placed them the table, too, for "low light", and proceeded to set the table with my wedding china that I need to use way more often!
Wine glasses, coffee cups, flatware, salad plates and dinner plates.

For additional Valentine decorations I had the girls email their wedding pictures, which I printed off in black and white.

Then I traced around the photos and cut them out...

...to fit into these Pier Import frames I found at the thrift store-again-...(4 frames all same, and all together!)

Next I ironed the napkins,

folded them, and put them on the table. (There are websites that show how to fold napkins in all kinds of ways.)

For an added bonus, I bought some chocolates and put them in this heart shaped dish, from Ross, for only....

$1.99!!! Love it!!!!

Here are quite a few shots of the table.
Lights out...

Lights on ...

Looking down...

I had the food on the counter, in the kitchen, so the table wasn't crowded.

We enjoyed grilled salmon, pork chops, rice , mashed potatoes, salad, rolls, and some sweet chocolate and strawberry desserts. Everyone brought something, so it was an easy dinner to prepare.

Each couple sat across from each other, and by their wedding photo.

At dinner we talked about where our wedding was held, and who was there, etc.. It was great conversation and memories. (I had one more frame that was added later when they arrived)

Last year our ladies group went through a really good bible study by Tommy Nelson-Song of Solomon- so I added this verse to each place setting.

All the frames in place-in the evening -right before we sat down.

My friends picture, with the verse...

Another closeup.

Better than going out-less expensive and a great time!

Thanks for looking!

Can"t take credit for this....

2011-02-10T00:33:00.002-10:00

Here is my sweet grandson Connor.

I can't take credit for this creation-handsome face or sweet smile.
But I'll take him!!!!

My Garage sale dough bowl

2011-02-04T08:33:00.004-10:00

The Nester blog is featuring dough bowls today...here is mine that I got 5 years ago in our neighborhood garage sale.

It was late in the afternoon -around 2pm- when I saw this little beauty without a price tag. The lady said $1 for the bowl and I thought Yes ! 'cause I loved it at first sight.

Sometimes I put pine cones, ornaments, and candles it in. I like to use it year round.

Totally worth the money.

Soul Surfer Movie!!!!

2011-01-28T11:04:00.005-10:00

Last night I got to go and see an advanced screening of the new Bethany Hamilton movie "Soul Surfer".
This is the t-shirt I was given after screening the movie.

IT WAS EXCELLENT!

The photography and surf scenes were beautiful. Especially on the big screen. WOW!

The acting was superb and the story line was sad, funny and exciting all at the same time.

Her mother also has a new book coming out....

I want to take the kids to see this and their friends. It opens April 8th in Hawaii...then April 15th in all other theaters. So worth the time and money.

I'm praying lots of youth groups go see this movie as well.

.99 Makeover

2011-01-28T10:28:00.003-10:00

I purchased this decorative board for .99 at the thrift store and decided to use it for my grocery list. I dropped it on the ground out side which cracked the tile...

then took my Pampered chef spatula and used it to help pry out the other pieces of tile.

The backside was black, so I sanded it, taped it off around the edges, then used my chalkboard spray paint, and painted the inside square. It took four coats....

After letting it dry for an hour, I hung it up and wrote a little list.

Works perfectly!

...and I already had chalk in my craft room!

Quick and cute . Love it!

Teacher's Gifts for Valentines Day

2011-01-27T15:28:00.005-10:00

I surprised even myself-I got some gifts done before a holiday!
I saw these natural notebooks at Ben Franklin for $1.00 and these pens (3 for .99)
and I figured a notebook is more useful than another candle, mug, etc... for a teacher.

So I decided to cover them with some Bo Bunny Valentines paper.

...took out some pink rhinestones...

and applied them to the paper and front of my notebook....

I covered the pens with paper too..

All done! Packaged and ready to go next month. I may need to make some more!

Sawyer's faces..

2011-01-05T23:51:00.006-10:00

...He loves my camera-and he loves to make faces.

I think? this is...

sad

mad

surprised

and his favorite thing to do the "cool boy"..

Lately, he's been saying to me, "Whats up darlin'?".

and calling his sister "Lily girl".

funny funny

Christmas Card Girl

2011-01-05T23:41:00.004-10:00

I realized I haven't posted a card in awhile..
I used the set "Greeting Card Kids" for this one.
Soft Suede paper and ink, vanilla seam binding for ribbon...and my Martha Stewart hole punch.

Added shading and some glitter to the image as well. Plus I'm trying to use up my button stash.

I like how it has a somewhat vintage feel...

Connor

2011-01-05T23:36:00.002-10:00

Here's Connor -grandson #2- with his lovely eyes open!

New Remodeled Laundry Room!

2011-01-02T16:53:00.004-10:00

Over the weekend, my husband tore out the old sink and rotten cabinet. He tiled the floor and back wall, then painted, and added under cabinet lights and a shelf for my supplies.
It was very hard to find before pictures of this room...
Here's one with the original wire shelf and the older sink.

I tried to reorganize it -using wicker baskets to hold my supplies...

Now-the after shot!

You can see the lights (on a dimmer switch) and the tile behind the appliances.

My new faucet and sink.
Sweet little shelf- holding my detergent, clothespins and dryer sheets.

Washer dryer all cleaned off. (However, there is 5 loads of laundry behind me-due to this remodel)

All cleaned up with no place to go. I love this and maybe, just maybe I'll keep up on the laundry!

Welcome 1-1-11!!!

2010-12-31T16:18:00.004-10:00

This is what my whole house looks like-and I didn't even have a party!
I'm cleaning and preparing for the wonderful New Year!

Plus- Here's a new picture of sweet Connor with his little eyes open!

May God Bless you all!

New Grandson has arrived!

2010-12-28T11:15:00.005-10:00

Little Connor Isaac is here! Garrett and Britney's second son.
22", 9 lbs 2oz. Pictures soon to follow.
Mommy doing well in recovery.

Ryan kissing Connor

Here is some info from the website "Think Baby Names"...
The boy's name Connor \c(on)-
nor\ is pronounced KAH-ner. It is of Irish and Gaelic origin, and the meaning of Connor is "hound-lover". Anglicised form of Conchobhar (Gaelic), which was the name of a legendary king of Ulster who lived at the time of Christ. See also Konnor. Irish author Conor Cruise O'Brien.

The boy's name Isaac \i-sa ac\ is pronounced EYE-zik. It is of Hebrew origin, and the meaning of Isaac is "laughter". Biblical: the only son of Abraham by his wife Sarah. Violinist Itzhak (ITS-hahk) Perlman; scientish Isaac Newton; angler Izaak Walton; authors Isaac Bashevis Singer, Isaac Asimov; football player Isaac Bruce; singer Isaac Hanson.

Random Post and Pictures...

2010-12-24T13:33:00.003-10:00

I have lots of photos on my computer ...thought I'd share some random ones...

First up, A little Hawaiian Sandman -cute isn't he?

A couple of ornaments Lily painted for my parents...cardinal...

and doe and fawn running - for my dad.

Sawyer's letter to Santa he wrote during school. So polite too.

I'm sorry-no dog this year either. But hey-at least he likes math!

A mouse Lily made from pipe cleaners for Sawyer.

Sawyer made his name out of pipe cleaners...

Lastly-my cousin Sam Rockwell. Excellent actor-great guy-wonderful memories. Super super talented!!!
Haven't seen him in a long time, but keep close watch on him! Good pic too.

That's it around here.
I have lots to wrap and a special candle light service to go to.
Merry Christmas Eve to you!

Christmas program

2010-12-22T08:13:00.005-10:00

On Sunday, Lily was in the "Angel Alert" Christmas program.
It was so cute to watch the performance of the children.
The stage before everyone arrived...

The kids all ready to go...(notice the gray windows-it was POURING outside all day)

Singing their songs...

Saying her lines...

and in the second performance she played Mary...

Holding her bitty baby doll...

She was nervous because she sang a solo in the song "Such a strange way to save the world".

but she sang really, really well.

I love Christmas programs, but I especially love watching programs when my children are in them!

Merry Christmas.

Christmas decorations around my house...

2010-12-17T16:33:00.015-10:00

I'd like to give you a little house tour of some of my Christmas decorations...
Let's begin!
Living room tree with all glass ornaments...

During the day...

Plus a few close up shots...
Lots and lots!

Poinsettia, Santa and Hula girl,

Car with surf board on top...

Fancy burlap cloth for tree skirt and presents from my sister already in place!

I put apothecary jars on the sofa table and the candle holders from the church tea.

At night...

Above the jars, is my mirror with Christmas cards, clothes pinned on the garland. My lighted houses are from my mother in law -and I just set them up in a row. It looks like a cityscape at night.
another angle...

My garland up in the living room windows.

Nutcrackers I've found over the years...
On top of the entertainment center...

old and new -real inexpensive.

In my kitchen, some cedar, huckleberry and pine clippings in a vase... reminds me of home in Oregon! Smells great!

Some more apothecary jars on my kitchen counter with Oregon pine cones, ornaments and a silver branch.

In my dining room, I use all the non breakable glass ornaments Ive received or bought throughout the years....on another artificial tree.

Hard to see them during the day...

Kmart ornament -Country Living Brand.

tin horse...

tin dog...

Some more!

...Nativity scene up on my hutch in the dining room...however next year I plan to put it on the living room sofa table and to put baby Jesus out on Christmas morning.

Nighttime!

End of our hallway- mirror with the gold letter "B" for our last name, or "Believe" whichever you prefer!
P.S. Letter from my sister, mirror was pulled from a dumpster, at my hubby's work site. Score!

The boys tree...

Lots of shatter proof ornaments on it and a few airplanes and cars from Pier 1.

Sawyer loves this on at night.

Lily Girl's tree....

Top of tree...

Love these fake snow balls I got last year 75% off!

Her bookcase-found these Breyer deers for her- $3.25!

I put this little Christmas tree in the kids' bathroom...

It reminds me of a Charlie Brown Christmas tree.

Outside our house-Christmas lights!!

On our lanai, I have an old 40's Santa and a Santa boot with vintage holly leaves.

I put an artificial tree out on the buffet table and used some 80's glass ornaments.

Here's another little retro Santa on my lanai table with a candle and a wreath...

I still have to put lights on the tree in our bedroom, and then put the handmade ornaments on it.
I shall post pics soon!

Super Heroes take a bath

2010-12-17T16:19:00.003-10:00

I think Sawyer's super heroes are the cleanest guys around!

He'll play in the bath for along time. I love how they're all lined up, ready to dive in.

Church Christmas Tea

2010-12-17T15:08:00.009-10:00

I love this event during Christmas time!
A Christmas Tea.
Some ladies signed up to decorate a table, some make or prepare the food, some sing
and some spoke.
I signed up to decorate a table.
I wanted to use my Mikasa Antique Lace china,but I didn't have a tablecloth or centerpiece that matched.
... So I went to the thrift store and found this gold angel statue holding a white tree with purple flowers. Yuck- I promptly pulled it out of her hands, then plugged the hole with Spackle and used my gold paint pen to color over the dried Spackle.

I bought 3 picks and put them in a wreath I already had but wasn't using.

I also bought these candle holders, with gold stems, from the thrift store to use in my center piece.

At the church before the event started we were able to set up our tables. I tied some cones I had made to the back of the chairs.

I used gold glitter paper, crepe paper , an angel image, seam binding,
and my glue gun, sewing machine and Stampin Up scallop punches to make them,
and then I filled them with candy.

Here is the whole set up and the wreath wreath with the angel , picks and gold stemmed candle holders inside of it. The table has a card in the wreath that said "Love" on it to tell the women which table it was and where to sit,etc... Found the tablecloth-brand new at the church thrift store but forgot to iron it before I went to set up- I think it was too dark to notice!

Here is a close up of the centerpiece. It made me think of "Angels we have heard on high"...I also wove gold wire rimmed ribbon through it.

A close up of the plate and the CD of hymns, each lady at the tea was gifted, and the napkin rings from Pier 1.
I had the runner and the napkins from a long time ago.(Green and gold) Close up my Mikasa china...

I had bought the water-wine? glasses a long time ago in Montana and had scrubbed off the words that were on the side of the glasses- they were super cheap because they had advertised different companies.

I made a little scallop note for each water glass. Love that punch!

Here is another table shot. It was a beautiful evening and it was fun seeing all of the tables decked out differently.

Cheers!

Cool boy

2010-12-17T15:00:00.003-10:00

Hi I've been busy -1st post up...

Sawyer's new look...
He came out of the bedroom -wanting to show me his "cool boy" look, then asked me to take his picture.
He even struck his own pose-I did not prompt him in any way.

He had turned his hat backwards and put on Levi's dog tag and said, "Whats up?-thats what cool guys say".

Then he showed me his "cool boy " dance. Oh boy-I'm thinking about 10 years from now-cool boy's gonna be a handful.

Radio radio!

2010-12-03T08:54:00.002-10:00

I'm in cleaning mode before the weekend arrives and I cant do it happily without KLOVE blaring on my computer! The songs are uplifting and just make me feel happy. I heard a great song today-had to post it-enjoy!

Mercy Me
All of Creation

Separated until the veil was torn
The moment that hope was born
And guilt was pardoned once and for all
Captivated but no longer bound by chains
Left at an empty grave
The sinner and the sacred resolved

[Chorus:]
And all of creation sing with me now
Lift up your voice and lay your burden down
And all of creation sing with me now
Fill up the heavens let His glory resound
Time has faded and we see Him face to face
Every doubt erased forever we will worship the king
[Repeat chorus]

Ohh ah ohhh... ohh ah ohhh
The reason we breathe is to sing of his glory
And for all He has done
praise the Father
praise the Son and the Spirit in one
[Repeat chorus 2x]
And every knee will bow oh and every tongue
praise the Father
praise the Son and the Spirit in one

Master Bath Reveal!!!!

2010-12-01T08:55:00.007-10:00

I am ready to show the pictures of our new master bathroom. (See my Sept 27th post for more details & Pics of the old bathroom)
Its been awhile because it's been busy here and I'm still prepping for my Christmas party on Friday.
To remind everyone-my old bathroom..
The master bath-where you can't see the dry rot at the bottom of the glass blocks...-nor the bright teal tile in the shower...grey floor tile and particle board cabinet...

Tiling the inside of the shower & the new wall that replaced the old glass block ...

Patching up the wall where the new mirror will hang...Plus new sink and faucet...

Installing new hardware on the new cabinet...

Now...!!!!
All done!!

Lovely, nice and clean.
New shelf on the wall-I love the rosette's on it, and some frames with shells and a leaf-for a natural accent.

Pictures with dark brown frames & jars from various thrift stores, shelf from Ross, new towels and a mini palm in a wicker container.

New hand soap and a Koa wood tray.

Inside of walk in shower and the new shampoo/soap shelf...

Detail of the shelf in the shower....

New light! mirror, towel bars, sink faucet ,etc...

Looking in once again ...

Wonderful wonderful!

Thanks for stopping by!

Setting up The house

2010-11-18T08:56:00.002-10:00

I decided to put my Christmas decorations up early. I will have a whole month to enjoy, reminisce, and celebrate Christ's birth! Once theyre up-I will have a Christmas party and time for friends and family because my internal to do list will be done! Yeah.
While I'm working- I play KLOVE on my computer since it is in kitchen,etc..
Here is a song from Mercy Me-thought it was great.

Beautiful

The days will come when you don't have the strength

When all you hear is you're not worth anything

Wondering if you ever could be loved

And if they truly saw your heart they'd see too much

You're beautiful

You are made so much more than all of this

You're beautiful

You are treasured,

You are sacred,

You are His You're beautiful

And praying that you have the heart to find

Cause you are more than what is hurting you tonight

For all the lies you've held inside so long

And they are nothing in the shadow of the cross

You're beautiful

You are made so much more than all of this

You're beautiful

You are treasured,

You are sacred,

You are His You're beautiful

Fifties Birthday Bash

2010-11-06T11:17:00.008-10:00

Last night I had a Fifties theme birthday for my husband.
If I had tons of moo-la I would have bought retro furniture for our whole living room-just for fun and to set the mood.
...Instead I decorated our dining room.
Before hand I sent out invitations to let everyone know the theme, info etc...

I used a retired Classic Convertible stamp set and teal decorative paper for a retro look.

Love the wings on this car.

Next I made a banner for the dining room window. I used my Sizzix big Shot to make the scallop triangles and the scallop circles, then I went back to the scrapbook store and used their letter die cuts to make the letters for my banner.

I bought teal, black and white papers-and tried to stay within a masculine look.

I purchased the old Lp's for only 50 cents each (they were all from the 50's!)

Banner blowing in the breeze...

Here's Sawyer after school enjoying some root beer while I set up the dining room...

Setting up the table at night..I don't have the food on it yet-or the goody bags-I wanted to remember to take pictures, and I didn't want the fries, hamburgers or hotdogs getting cold.
I bought an old fashioned red ketchup container and yellow mustard container too. ( basket with wax paper for the fries)

I had a 12" cake pan, so I made a one layer cake, then frosted it with dark chocolate frosting and added Brian's picture to the center-tried to resemble an old LP. Baker I am not.

I found these milkshake glasses for only 50 cents each!
I purchased black straws for them. I even found long milkshake spoons for the party!

These are various Coca Cola glasses I had found at the thrift store, as well.

I used three milkshake glasses to hold the knives, forks and spoons.

No party could be complete without some goody bags!

I used some American craft stickers,

and some paper, then punched out some circle labels,

and put in a whoopee cushion, jacks and some candy in the paper bag.

We played a trivia game about the year 1960...Brian had a great time and enjoyed the company. All in all good time.

Birthday Boy...

2010-11-02T10:17:00.004-10:00

Today my husband turns 50 years old! (Here is at age 4)

I am so proud of him! He is an honest, loyal, christian man with an excellent reputation and a great character. I am very blessed to be married to him.

(Here's a pic of his shadow who follows him everywhere when he gets home....He looks like his father I'd say.)

Baby Shower in a Box

2010-10-28T14:55:00.014-10:00

Baby shower & a box? What?
...I live a long, long, long, way away from my son & daughter in law, and my soon to be born 2nd grandchild! 8 weeks to go!
I also love new baby clothes, blankets and parties & I really wanted to throw a baby shower for her, but due to logistics it wouldn't be possible.
Then (hold the presses!) I decided to throw the shower from "here" anyways, and send her everything "over there", that she would need. I started by asking what colors she'd prefer, and after I told her a couple of my ideas, we settled on blue, tan and brown. (No baby blue) She also liked a little elephant for the animal.

Here is the baby shower invite...inspired from a template by Kim Hughes.

I made the first one rather quickly-not thinking about how much tracing and cutting would be involved for 24 invites! Because baby grandsons are special and one of a kind,-it was so worth it!

...embossed with dots

25 invites-cut and stamped-ready for the mail!!

The Banner!

I'll show the "How to" on another post..
Can I just say I love the Big Shot from Stampin' Up!?

Hard to read "Connor" from far away...I'm hoping she will have someone to help hang the banner .

Lots of little elephant cupcake toppers...

Cute Martha Stewart punch.

The cupcake paper wraps! Used my Big Shot and a cupcake wrap die cut. Fabulous! Got it with a 40% off coupon. Oh yeah.

Price Busters (like a dollar store) had these chocolate colored plates and cups!! I love blue and brown together. This blue is actually a little darker in person.

The little paper cups for the mints and peanuts.

...for the guests, some peanuts...

and indivually wrapped mints- I like the all white.

I tried to include everything but the punch/drinks, for the afternoon shower.

Cake mix and frosting for the cupcake. Hum, I hope someone will make these for her too.

A certificate for an ice cream cake.

I couldn't forget the games!

The 3 baby shower games...

Scrambled baby words/items, Nursery Rhyme Riddles and Baby animals.

and their answer sheets-all printed out. Thank you internet search.

The 3 prizes, for the game winners!

A coupon keeper, a 2011 planner, and a "To Do" notepad.

(Oh man- I hope her friends don't read my blog?)

Now...the prizes all wrapped up! oops -got some baby blue in there.

The tag/label. (a label set I got from Stampin' Up.)

...I couldn't forget the outside of the house!!!

Balloons for the mailbox..

The whole shower!! The whole party!

I put the items in zip lock bags, and wrapped it all up . I even drew a little layout of how I'd set it up if I were there.(Yes I realize it looks quick, ugly and like a little kid wrote it...) But you get the idea-right?

And the two boxes-all packed up and ready to be sent!! Love those flat rate boxes! I put extra things in them as well.

Hey Brit-Party time on its way! Enjoy!

Sweater "Cozy" Inspiration

2010-10-20T16:21:00.007-10:00

It doesn't really "feel" like winter here in Hawaii, and its too hot for hot chocolate,soup or sweaters.
I have however, been noticing a lot of sweater "cozy" items online-

I like these sweater plant covers.

These bracelets-so easy to make these!

Pillows-what a cozy thing to have on your couch...

Bowls? this sure would keep your hands protected!

A nice wine/Apple cider cover...

Yes! Candle covers!

And...Anthropologie-need I say more?

I was inspired to make some of my own vase "cozy's" so I headed to the thrift store and bought some various clearance sweaters in different colors.

I slid my clear 99 cent vases through the sleeve to see how where to cut it off...

and then snipped away.

Funny, I didn't even care if they were Liz Claiborne,Old Navy or Gap sweaters. I would never wear them here.

I tucked the excess fabric in side and didn't glue it down, in case I need to wash the vase or cover.

There! All three covered and cozy!

I like the cable knit sweaters.

My nice fall vases.

Now I will try to make pillows from the rest of the fabric.