our daily chocolate

Aologia Live

2012-02-07T11:50:00.000-05:00

Apologia is in my hometown March 9-10. So excited!!

Tickets are $115. But if you want a chance to win one, The Thrifty Mama is giving one away. She also has some materials from Apologia for the winner as well. Giveaway ends tomorrow, so hurry and enter...or not...gives me better odds! :]

Enter giveaway at The Thrifty Mama.

Easy Photo Tutorial::Rewarding Results

2012-02-04T22:01:00.000-05:00

I wanted to share with you my first go-to actions when editing my pictures. People always ask how I change these things and I figured it would just be easier if I showed you. Please note, I am no Photoshop guru, or photography editing specialist. I am not a pro. I just make some simple adjustments to my pictures until I like the way it looks.

I shoot all of my pictures in RAW, which I suggest. If your camera has the capability, do it. It gives you the most control over edits. Basically, RAW is like the film negative. Once you make your edits and adjustments, it's then converted to jpg. P.S. I'm still learning my camera :]

Below you can see a photo (click photo to enlarge) I took of my lil squishy in the bright snowy daylight. Part of it is washed out and her face is in so much shadow, there's not a lot of depth and there are no blacks. I want this picture to be defined with depth, detail and shadow, while getting rid of the shadows on her face.

There are three things I always do first to a photo. I work in CS5 {hubby is a graphic designer, and an awesome one at that} so I get spoiled with the latest software. But these edits can be done in any version of PS, including Elements. If there are technical terms for all of this, I apologize in advance for not using them. Again, I just play around until I like it...because I am too impatient to wait for my hubby to teach me.

First, I change my white balance. You can see that I put it on custom. I feel I get a better start from there than trying to adjust it from say, the cloudy setting etc. In this setting I can adjust the temperature (warm/cool-blue/red) and the tint (color).

The original was actually a little warm for where I wanted to take the photo, so I just moved the temp slider closer to the blue and that took some of the red out. Next I just barely adjusted the tint, it was a little blue and I wanted the color to be bumped up just slightly to a natural flesh pink.

Once I have those two steps where I want them, I move on to my exposure. Bringing my exposure up or down will effect the brightness of the photo. This was already pretty bright due to the glare from the snow, but I actually liked it. I didn't feel the need to adjust it on this particular picture, but usually I do. I find it helps to bring the exposure up slightly when I want a lot of detail in the face.

(Click photo to enlarge)

So there you have it, my 3 "go-to" steps. I almost always do these three edits on all of my pictures before really getting into the edit.

Once I have completed my go-to steps, then I can get funky! I love to enhance the eyes, details in the face, blur the background and change the feel the photo. Most of the time I use Actions for that. Hmm, maybe I'll make another tutorial with actions...

Six Months

2012-01-26T00:01:00.000-05:00

I can't believe six months have gone by already. I still feel like I am adjusting to life with a "newborn". People say that it's the third child that makes or breaks you. When Super Hero asks if I want any more, I say "Bring it!". Guess it didn't break me.

Just six short months ago we brought home this little bundle.

And now here she is, all sweet {almost 20lbs} of her! 20 lbs people! You should see those thighs!! No one believes me when I tell them she was 6 weeks premature. She sure doesn't look it.

Yes, she is a red head, and no, she doesn't look like me. But she sure is high maintenance. Super Hero says that's how he knows she's mine for sure!

Six Things

2011-11-06T21:12:00.001-05:00

Hey!

So, I was on twitter tonight. Like, actually on it, not just the random post here and there, but actually spending time and following along and having 140 character convos.

I saw this thing on there tonight called #sixthings. I saw it from @MinkyMoo but I believe it was started by @amydpp.

Anyway, thought it sounded fun, decided to join. Here are my Six Things. And if you want to join in on twitter, just follow along and you'll be updated on the next #sixthings gathering.

1. My inner monologue is always in a British accent
2. I always forget that I have a very visible tattoo on my neck
3. The hubs and I always try to one-up each other with slang gangsta sayings...Fo Sho! Word! Yo Momma! Fo Shizle! {don't be jealous}

4. I will eat an entire wheel of brie all by myself
5. I was featured on GMA last July in a segment on 'making $$$ from home' with @sarahmae
6. I secretly pretend I am a rockstar when the hubs is not home. Ya, I'm so cool

And there you have it. 6 random, but fascinating facts about yours truly.

I would LOVE to know a random fact about YOU. Please share in the comments or follow on twitter and share.

Awkward and Awesome Thursday

2011-09-22T00:01:00.007-04:00

Awkward
-This dream I had where Trinity wasn't really mine. I was just a surrogate who also had to nurse her for a few months and her momma was an old black woman.
-resting my arm on the attached-to-the-wall soap dish, the whole thing broke off...Super Hero asked if the sink broke in half. Really? What kind of activities do you think I'm up to in the there?
-tried on a dress from my closet and a spider was crawling at warp speed toward my face. Yes, I yelped, and flicked him off. Then I had issues with being in my room because I didn't know where he landed.
-During one of the many baby-likes-to-eat-every-45-minutes nights this week, I managed to put my nursing pad in backwards, so for her next feeding my whole left side got soaked. Did I change my nightgown? Nope! I just threw a towel on the bed and told Super Hero not to worry about the sour milk smell

Awesome
-Science kiddo started scouts again this year, he is now a 1st year webelos scout and greatly looking forward to earning his badges.
-Chatty Boo has started ballet. She is not graceful, at all. Super Hero said something about getting it from some woman...but I didn't hear him.
-Went to a wedding to watch two people pledge their love for each other and to God.
-Mootshie Pie is growing so fast! Soon her double chinned, lumpy legged self will be in 3mo clothing!
-Watching my Science Kiddo and Super Hero break dance
-Super Hero and Chatty Boo, dancing sweetly together

What was awkward/amazing for you this week?

btw, got this cute aa thursday idea from this blogger!

Inifinity Scarf

2011-09-16T12:18:00.001-04:00

I love scarves! Anyone who knows me knows how great of an understatement that it. I love them all year, but especially in the Fall. One can never have too many scarves and I am so thrilled I found a tutorial on how to make my own, simple, scarf.

I came across this tutorial the other day for an infinity scarf. I own a few and really love them! This tutorial is so simple, and requires NO sewing. Even better!

Here are the two I made. The first was made using a size small maternity top {from my 1st pregnancy}. This is the perfect size to use for a little girl scarf.

See how perfectly cute that is?! I just cut the bottom part of the shirt, under the arms and then cut the trim off the bottom. {the tutorial link above will go over this in more detail}

This tank is a size large maternity, from my 3rd pregnancy. {we just won't go there, k? Mmkay}.

Again, just cut the bottom part under the arms and cut the bottom trim off. I stretched this one, since it was 100% cotton, and that made it nice and long. Perfect for wrapping several times! The edges of the green scarf have rolled, which makes it look better, I think.

Now I am on a major hunt for some cute tees that I can turn into Infinity scarves.

How about you, what's your favorite Fall accessory?

Introducing...

2011-08-23T17:38:00.000-04:00

Trinity Grace

3 lbs 11.4 oz

19 1/4 inches long

Born 7/25/11 at 8:50pm

I realized I never shared her name with you all! I'm still writing the story and desperately trying to get back in the swing of things. I still haven't ordered curriculum for the year!

I'm hoping to have the story posted by Friday...but no promises. :]

Baby Crazy

2011-08-21T20:27:00.001-04:00

Wow! So much has happened in the last month. I should be 38 weeks pregnant right now, but instead, I have a little girl that will be 4 weeks old tomorrow!

Things turned super crazy on July 25th. I want to tell you all about it. Hopefully soon I will have it all written and ready for you.

But for now, I'm just enjoying this:

wiww #4

2011-06-15T09:44:00.000-04:00

It's that time of the week, where I show you lovelies what I wore...

I'm hooking up with Lindsey for fashion inspiration, which can be difficult to obtain at 28.5 weeks pregnant!

But I make the attempt! That's gotta count for something, right?!

This week is only one outfit as I was just too busy to stop for the camera.

White Top: Target Maternity

Sheer Top: Living Dolls {Marshalls}
Jean Crops: Motherhood
Flops: Gap
Necklace New: DailyChocolate

Headband New: DailyChocolate

I have to say, I am in.love with that sheer top! I was in Marshall's this past week looking for a new comforter and as I was walking to the register I saw it hanging there...calling my name! I just had to get it. It's so fun and light, so I can add layers without killing myself from the heat!

Plus, the color and lace just make me swoon!

What is your favorite recent clothing purchase?

How-To Tuesday :: Fabric Bookmark

2011-06-14T15:39:00.001-04:00

A few weeks ago I saw this great tut from Little Birdie Secrets on how to make fabric bookmarks.

My plan was to make them as gifts. I tried making one, and it turned out great! I went to make the others and my sewing machine was not working! {Fail!} So, I had to make other options...but I did get one made. And yes, I kept it for myself!

The tut is so easy with minimal sewing!! My kind of project!

So, to get started, you will need:

*Fabric cut to 4" x 8"
*Fusible interfacing cut to 3.75" x 7.75"
*Fabric strip for flower cut to about 1.25" x 42"
*Coordinating thread and sewing machine
*Fabric glue
*Coordinating button
*Needle and thread

1. Following manufacturer's instructions, iron fusible interfacing to wrong side of fabric piece.

2. Fold fabric piece in half width-wise, right sides together.

3. Sew across bottom edge and up side edge.

4. Clip corners and turn inside out. Use a pencil to gently push out corners.

5. Fold ends of open end in about 1/2".

6. Top stitch around all four sides, close to the edge, closing up open end.

7. Create a fabric rosette with your long strip of coordinating fabric and fabric glue (see tutorial here). Hand sew a button in the middle.

8. Glue the fabric flower to the top of the bookmark with fabric glue. That's it!

{This tut was taken from their website. Directions and pics belong to Little Birdie Secrets.}

I followed these directions completely and had no issues. I just love when that happens!

Here is the bookmark I made

As soon as my sewing machine is repaired, I plan on making several more. They will be very handy for the several books I am reading this summer.

Check out Little Birdie Secrets for more great tutorials!

You Rock :: Sale

2011-06-14T08:38:00.000-04:00

You guys rock! No, truly and totally, you all rock!!

Thanks for being so patient with my shop update posts. I have a tutorial coming up for you today, so check back later

Just a quick {but wonderful} shop update this morning, to let you all know that you are awesome and I heart you all!

And because I appreciate you oh so much, I have a special offer, for you!

Now through midnight, take an extra 10% off anything and everything in the shop. Even items in the clearance section! Just use coupon code HAPPYDAY when checking out.

I just added some new items last night, and those are included as well! Yay!!

So, don't forget to come back for a fun tutorial, and, Happy Shopping!!

These make great gift items as well, packaged sweetly and ready for the giving.

Birthday Crowns

2011-06-13T15:13:00.000-04:00

As mentioned in a previous post, I am in the process of clearing out my inventory to make room for some new, exciting goodies!

I just added the Birthday Crowns in the shop today. They were a special boutique item, never before offered online. I have only a few left and have marked them down just for you!

These are a great way to let everyone know, it's your day! They are also precious for a 1st Birthday Party!

Don't forget, there are still some great goodies marked down to great prices...and they make lovely gifts!

Blue Damask Crown

Black and White Polka Dot Crown

Green Damask Crown

Pink and Cream Polka Dot Crown

Other items will be added to the Clearance section of the shop this week as well as new product! So be sure to check back often!!

What items would you love to see more of?

Party Hats :: Barbie

2011-06-13T11:50:00.000-04:00

A few days ago, my sweet little lulu and I were looking on etsy {because even at 5 she can appreciate the beauty} and on the front page we saw a listing for Barbie sized party hats!

What 5 year old little girl could resist the beauty of those?! And what 5 year old little girl wouldn't want to have them for her very own!?

Certainly not my little 5 year old!

She ran straight for my craft closet and picked out her favorite paper and said "Here Momma, we can make some!"

And that is just what we did. And we had so much fun.

We invited some of her Barbies to a party where they were outfitted with cute hats, and were able to try a new recipe of raspberry cake and strawberry cupcakes.

I just love that she loves to play with barbies. I never outgrew them! I still love to play with them, but I mostly love accessorizing them. :]

What was your favorite thing to play with when you were little?

Handmade Feature Thursday

2011-06-09T13:45:00.000-04:00

It's very rare that I come across a shop who's product makes my heart skip a beat.

Today, I found a shop that made made me do just that!

She makes the most gorgeous bags and I am just so smitten with the colors!!

Made By Hank

I am so in love!

Just look at those colors! My personal fav is the "sea glass" {the blue one}

There are so many cute things in her shop, but I am really needing/wanting this bag! I could totally rock it as a diaper bag!!

Go check it out, you may find something you can't live without!

{etsy}

{blog}

Out With the Old...In With the New

2011-06-07T14:13:00.001-04:00

As many of you know, and can see in my sidebar, I have an Etsy shop. I also do several shows throughout the year, offering custom original pieces not offered online.

Recently, I have been working on new product {and can't wait to offer it to you}.

I want to clear out my inventory.

Make it fresh and new. I am really, very anxious to offer this new product to my you, my wonderful customers.

But before I can do that, I really must clear out what I no longer intend to offer. I have a few things left from my last show, plus other items that have never been offered online {including darling pendant necklaces for little girls}.

Today and throughout the week, I will be adding those items to my Etsy shop, at HUGE discounts. I need these items out of my inventory. They make perfect gifts, for yourself, for Christmas {it's never too early to start}, birthdays, hostess gifts, bridesmaids, just because!

I will be adding the items to the "clearance" section of my shop. Once they are sold, that is it. No more. Nada, zip, zilch.

So get them while you can! And remember, an item does not belong to you until it has actually been paid for. Even though it sits in your cart, someone else can still purchase it.

Here is a snippet of what will be marked down and no longer offered:

Glass Tile Pendants $14, now $7
Rosebud Stud Earrings {Some Colors} $10, now $5
Rosebud Dangles {Some Colors} $12, now $6
Fabric Peonies $12, now $8
Birthday Crowns $22, now $15 {These were a custom show piece}

Remember to keep checking in this week as new clearance items will be added daily!

Next week I will be introducing some of the new product. I am so excited!! I think you all will really love it!

And also, a HUGE thank you to all my wonderful customers who support my little handmade biz. I {heart} each and every one of you!

Fabric Tape :: How To

2011-06-02T19:48:00.000-04:00

I have had my eye on some seriously delicious Japanese washi tape... but haven't really wanted to make the commitment just yet. I figured I could probably make my own, which is always a crafter's state of mind. We see something we like, and just know we can make it ourselves. Or am I the only one?? Maybe, but at least you all get to benefit from some of my "Icanmakethatmyself" ideas! Score!!

So here is how I made my fabric tape. And I love this, because you can use whatever fabric you like!

Supplies needed:

Fabric of your choice
Xyron Sticker Maker {$10 at Walmart or craft stores}
Scissors

Cut your fabric to the desired width, or the width allowed by your sticker maker.

Insert fabric into sticker maker, and pull through.

Viola! You now have beautiful fabric tape.

You can use this to adorn packages, gift bags, gift wrap, or as embellishments for scrapbooking and card making. It could also be added to home decor DIY projects!

The only problem you'll find with this project is, you can't seem to make enough! I have made so much already, and still I can't stop. It's fun, easy, and so much cheaper than buying it online.

If you decide to make some, I'd love to see how you use it! Send me an email with your project, or upload it to the ODC flickr pool! The flickr pool is new, I thought it would be a fun way to share projects with each other and get inspiration!

Tell me, what would you use fabric tape for?

wiww #3

2011-06-01T11:41:00.001-04:00

Last week was spent with my family {and hubbies entire family} at Topsail Beach in NC. It was a wonderful time of sun, warmth, ocean, and family. I miss them all already!

I didn't get many shots of myself this past week, as most of the time I was in a bathing suit...and trust me, no one wants to see that!

So, for a little bit of summer fashion inspiration, maternity style, here it is!

Dress: Old, from Target
Cardi: Old, from Target
Necklace: 31 Bits...again!
Earrings: Daily Chocolate

Hubbie outfit
Top: Target
Shorts: Lands End
Super Gorgeous Beard: A gift from God!!

I changed my outfit for this pic as we were going out to celebrate our anniversary!

Dress: Old Navy, Maternity
Cardi: Target
Necklace {that that I put on just before walking out the door}: Daily Chocolate

Our Family Pic
Son's outfit: Top: Children's Place, Bottoms: Kohls
Daughter's outfit: Top and Skirt: TJ MAXX, Headband: GroopDeals

Now go head on over to The Pleated Poppy, get some inspiration, and let those who inspire you know it!!

wiww #2

2011-05-18T10:30:00.002-04:00

It's another edition of wiww, with Lindsey at The Pleated Poppy.

Just one outfit this week as we have had nothing but constant rainy weather all. week. long.

I am so ready for the beach next week! Warm weather, sunny skies, and sand between my toes. Ah, I can almost taste the salt water now!

Top: Motherhood
Tank: Sports Bra, Target
Jeans: Motherhood {my fav pair}
Shoes: Target, my new loves
Necklace: 31 Bits {heart this so so much!}

Next weeks wiww, beach edition!! Only 3 more days baby!! I also have a few crafts lined up that are beach themed, so hopefully I will find all the supplies I need. Can't wait to share them with you.

Now go head on over to The Pleated Poppy to see what everyone else wore this week. It's so much fun, you won't be disappointed! Promise!

wiww

2011-05-11T10:35:00.003-04:00

i haven't participated in WIWW before, but thought it would be fun

like the pleated poppy, i am a stay-at-home work-from-home homeschooling momma

getting dressed sometimes seems like a such a chore

and being pregnant in the hot months....

it's just no fun wearing clothes

but i promise, no nudy pics, i did get dressed

so welcome to the maternity edition of WIWW

enjoy, be inspired, and get dressed

my mother's day outfit

jeans: motherhood
shirt: target
cardi: target {non maternity}
belt: off of my dress from marshalls

this was my run to the post office and clean the house outfit

capris: motherhood
shirt: old navy maternity
cardi: land's end {non-maternity}
necklace: 31 bits

today we are headed to the market, library, and awana derby race

jeans: motherhood
tank: motherhood
top: motherhood
flops: gap
ring: daily chocolate
necklace: the vintage pearl

linking up with lindsey @ the pleated poppy

and

How-To Tuesday - Memo Holders

2011-05-10T13:32:00.001-04:00

as mentioned a few days ago, i planned on showing you how i made these mini memo holders

they are very simple and require only a few items

these also make perfect gifts for teachers, family, friends, neighbors, really, anyone who can hold a pen

the supplies needed:

plastic picture frame 3.5x5 or 4x6 ($.95 at walmart)

fun paper

fun embellishments

ribbon

adhesive

square post-it notes (pack of 4 for $1.95 at walmart)

remove the paper insert, trace onto your pretty paper and insert into the frame

next you want to lay all of your embellishments on the frame with the pad of paper to see how you want the placement

once you see how you want it place, add your adhesive and place

i use double sided tape as it has a really great adhesive and won't show through the ribbon like glue would

i stamped 4 images of my elephant in order to add decorative balloons

i also added some glitter to his hat and the strings

now you have a cute little personalized gift

or make one for yourself

they're so easy you could make several in one afternoon

and just think, you'll have a ton of gifts already made, ready for the giving, at a moments notice

My Mother's Day

2011-05-09T13:05:00.000-04:00

yesterday was such a wonderful day spent with my family.

the hubs got tickets to the baseball game so after church we headed to camden yards

we had a blast and i ate a lot of sunflower seeds washed down with delish icy cold cola... yup, i sure did!

one thing we love to do as a family to go the baseball games...it's just so much fun.

of course our favorite part is the food vendors...mmmmm....food....

er, where was i? Oh, ya, so we spent the afternoon at the game, then we went to get ice cream.

it's what was for dinner

cause i'm an awesome momma like that :]

then we came home and played outside for a bit

the weather was gorgeous

the boy went looking for another snake

i dragged him back to take a pic with his momma

he was dissapointed

but did a great job of hiding it

all in all, a pretty perfect momma's day

Quick Mother's Day Gift Ideas

2011-05-07T18:00:00.000-04:00

still need something for that special momma? so did i! i was actually ahead of the game this year...but when i went to use my sewing machine for my gifts...the silly things wouldn't work!

Which is really very interesting since i had just used it the day before on a test run and it worked just fine!

but never mind...we move on...or so we try

i had to rack my brain and think of something cute, simple, cheap, easy, and fast!

i finally thought of my gift idea last night. in bed. at 11:32pm.

of course normally i would have jumped right up to get started...

ha, who am i kidding. i need my sleep people.

but i did get up first thing this morning and start. or at least would have, if my 5 yr old hadn't been terribly sick.

eventually i did get my gifts started and let me just say that if you start these tonight. after dinner. after a glass {or two} of wine. or whenever you just "get to it". you'll still be done in time to gift them first thing in the a.m

that's how little time these gift ideas take. promise.

ok, pinky promise.

1st up...

these adorable free printable posters

i stumbled upon these last night in my quest for inspiration.

i already had the frames, the ink and the paper.

this definitely met my criteria

cute. simple. cheap {free}. easy. fast.

ka'ching!

next....

i decided to make mini fabric rosette magnets

again, cute. simple. cheap {free}. easy. fast.

i already had the fabric and magnets

3rd...

i needed something cute to put the magnets on

so i decided a magnetic memo/picture frame/recipe board would be nice

and last...

mini memo holders

these are great to keep near the computer, phone, fridge

and they are super simple to make

i finished these in very little time

and promise you can too.

{i'll even have a little tut for you on tuesday to make these. they are perfect for any gift.}

Barn Star Makeover

2011-05-06T22:16:00.000-04:00

Lately I haven't really had time for crafting, DIY'ing, or upcycling. I've been so busy with end of year activities, new design clients, and family "stuff", that all of my super duper fun ideas have had to be placed on the back burner.

I did get a chance to spray paint something yesterday!

Never mind I was supposed to be spray painting derby cars...

I have had this barn star for a few years now, and while I love the red and the rust, I was ready for it to be new again.

Not a huge deal, but I do love the outcome! It makes me smile to see more color.

you can't beat a 5 year old

2011-03-08T14:58:00.000-05:00

my daughter loves to play games, especially with me

one of her favorite games games is 'crazy creatures'

the game uses animal sounds to put together complete animals

but when the game piece that makes the animal sounds isn't working...

{because it takes cell batteries, seriously who has cell batteries just laying around}

be prepared to lose

she said we could just make the animal sounds ourselves...

such genius i tell you

I let her make all the animal sounds

for some reason the 'machine' only made the animal sounds she needed...

{let me say here, she did let me win the first round}

but soon after there were all kinds of rules to the game:

*her animals could jump over others

*mine were too slow because they were having babies

*the machine only made sounds for her animals to be complete

*my animals were to tired to move on

you get the idea

btw, i was the horse, if you hadn't figured that one out

that's where i was laying down because i was a 'momma' horse

I Have Butterflies!

2011-03-07T19:05:00.002-05:00

i have butterflies, in the paper form. Not the oh-gosh-i'm-so-nervous-i'm-gonna-be-sick kind

no, i have the oh-gosh-they're-so-pretty-i-have-to-keep-making-them butterflies

meet 'emily'. so fun and flirty and femanine

yes, i have butterflies. but i didn't stop there

i have tags and envelope seals too

aren't they perty

oh, and these are fun too

need to know where to get these? just stop by my new shop

Our Daily Sweetness

loads more goodies to come

A Bit Of Spring!

2011-03-04T14:49:00.000-05:00

I am so ready for spring! Normally I am a hard core winter girl, but I am just so tired of being cold!!

While grocery shopping yesterday I spotted some of these beauties on sale. I grabbed a bundle and just stared at them the whole time while shopping. Kinda hard to do when you have to navigate a shopping cart and 2 wild kiddos, but it was just so perty, I couldn't look away!

Please pay no attention to the broken flower on the front the vase.

Gah! I told you not to pay attention to it!!

{The vase was at Michaels last season, only I spotted the last one, and they weren't supposed to have it anymore. So I got it for $.1!! Yup, a penny! 2 days after being the proud owner of such an amazing deal, my children proceeded to have an all out war on my bed, knocking it off my bedside table. Oh well, things happen. And yes, I still use it!}

Anywho, with all this yellow around me, I just had to create something spring like.

Aren't they just so sweet!?

And super fun!

I am loving the colors!!

Some are adhesive while others are not. Some are made with vintage french dictionary paper, while others are made with cardstock.

All of them, however, can be found in my shop!

They make the perfect addition to any party or project you may be working on.

Ok, enough of my shameless plug. Go, enjoy the warmth if you have it. Or bring some spring into your home to prepare for it!!

That's an order!

Oh, and go buy some butterflies, that's also an order!!

Don't Look like Your Great Aunts Curtains

2011-02-19T10:49:00.000-05:00

Floral fashion is hot this year. Especially the vintage-y English type roses. I have loved these roses for, like, ever! They can be a great style piece, so long as you don't overdo it. Too many floral designs and you're bound to look like your great aunts curtains! The key to working this hot trend is moderation. A simple accessory in this print will have you looking Fab! A floral touch here and there and you've got the hottest look! Here are some of my favorites. {That Aldo purse down there, that's mine as soon as it hits stores!!}

{Click on the pic to be taken to the site}

Free People:

Nordstrom:

Aldo:

Nordstrom:

Aldo:

Topshop:

American Eagle:

Crafting Didn't Make Me Sick

2011-01-25T14:17:00.000-05:00

Today I had about an hour where I wasn't feeling so incredibly sick.

I have been flat out on my death bed with morning sickness. Not able to do a thing.

So when the opportunity presented itself today, I did what any normal woman {who hasn't done dishes, laundry, or vacuuming in a reallllly long time} would do.

I made Love Day crafts! Albeit, simple ones, but it added a touch of color and fun that the house was lacking.

{Of course, I did do the laundry and dishes first. Hubby wouldn't be to happy if I used up all my non-nausea time crafting!} :]

I'm still not sure where those 3 frames will go, but looking at them make me smile. The Pennant Banner is hanging on the wall in our entry way. Great reminder.

Countdown To Kisses

2011-01-20T13:51:00.000-05:00

Those of you who already follow me here and here, probably know of my big news. For those of you that don't follow me yet, get to it, so you'll always be in the loop! :]

At the beginning of the week I made a pretty exiting announcement...

We're expecting our 3rd child!!!

{Due to arrive on or around 9/5/11}

Between August 16th and September 15th, there are 6 birthdays in our family. The little bean I'm roasting will make that 7 birthdays. Crazy.

And yes, I am missing my coffee, can you tell?

I have been crazy sick with a cold and morning sickness. Terrible combination.

I think I may be the first person in the world to die of nausea. Really. I'm almost dead as I type this.

At least you can say you knew the girl who holds the record for being the first to die of nausea. That's pretty cool.

Anywho, with all this sickness going on in my body, it hasn't left much time for creating anything. Except more nausea.

Oh how I miss it. Creating, not the nausea.

How I long for sticky Mod Podge fingers, and minuscule scraps of paper littering the floor, and a little girl constantly asking if she can craft with me!

All in due time my pretties, all in due time.

But since I don't have anything for you today from moi, I still want to help get your creative juices flowing.

Check out this super adorable Love Day craft {with super easy tutorial} from Beckie at Infarrantly Creative.

Swoon! I'm in love!

Can't wait till I can sit for longer than 10 minutes without feeling the need to race to the bathroom.

Because when that day arrives, I have a super cute craft idea in mind. And I can't wait to share it with you all.

But until then, go, create a countdown to kisses, while I get excited and start my own "Countdown to Kisses"

Muscians Are So Cute

2011-01-12T16:09:00.000-05:00

Over the Christmas break we visited family.

My Father in law has a recording studio in his basement. My guys Love going down there to play with all the instruments.

Bad timing on my part, I missed a shot of the boy playing the piano. But he was cute too.

My little hippie flower child

My wonderful guitar playin', great singin', hubby.

See, musicians are cute!

Joy Burlap Banner

2010-12-10T15:53:00.000-05:00

I have been wanting to make a burlap banner for awhile but just never got the gumption to get it going.

I decided I wanted a cute burlap banner for Christmas and so I set out to make a rather versatile one.

My Christmas color scheme this year is cream/white/burlap, with some turquoise thrown in. Think lots of texture!

My DD's middle name is Joy so after Christmas I can put it in her room and enjoy it for longer than a month!

Not sure I'm liking the ribbon used to hang it, that may be changing.

But for now. I'm enjoying my stenciled burlap banner.

New Lovelies For Christmas Delivery

2010-12-08T10:00:00.000-05:00

I would like to introduce you to some dear lovelies. Won't you please meet:

Party Teal We Drop

BerryLicious

Over The Moon

Grey Matter

Hopelessly In Love

Aren't they just darling! These beauties are some of my favs, and I have been wearing them every day!

I kinda wish I had more than one set of ears, ya know, just for the sake of being able to wear all of these at once {cuz I'm just so in love with them}

If you find yourself smitten, you can always head to The Shop and order up some lovelies. But remember, last day to guarantee Christmas delivery is Dec. 16.

Chic Christmas Wreath {On The Cheap}

2010-12-07T17:35:00.000-05:00

This is a super cute and super frugal Christmas wreath. I just got the idea in my head for the colors and since I already had the turquoise yarn, it was a done deal!

This wreath cost me all of $1, because I already had most of these items on hand. But, if you had to buy all of these things to make this wreath, it would still only cost you a few dineros, like only 4 or 5 of them.

You will need:

Wreath Form {found at the $ store}

Yarn {your choice color}

Head Pins or glue

Fabric -to make the yo-yo's

Needle and Thread

Glitter word {$1 at Walmart}

Hot Glue Gun {to attach all items to the wrapped wreath}

Wrap the form with the yarn several times, until the form is no longer showing {I used flat head pins to secure, but you could also glue} and make sure the ends of the yard all meet on one side

Once completely covered I added a few funky wraps to give it some texture

Make as many yo-yo's as you would like to add on and decorate with your glitter word as well.

{If you don't know how to make a yo-yo, simply google it, there are so many tuts on them}

Super Crazy Amazingness

2010-11-23T19:40:00.001-05:00

So I'm sure many of you will be out getting mauled by the crazy crowds trampling over you for the one crazy deal out there on Black Friday...but for those of you who will be home, or for those who still feel the need to shop after the recovery of a few lost limbs...

Our Daily Chocolate will be having it's very own Black Friday sale!

This sale is super awesome! Why you ask?

Well, since you asked...I'll tell you!

Each hour will have a different sale/promo going on.

What!?

That's right! Each hour will be some different way to save, and by save I mean you won't have to spend nearly as much moolah for that awesome product you want Oh! So! Bad!!

Each hourly sale will be announced on Facebook and Twitter, so be sure you're following so you don't miss out.

I don't want to give anything away, but I'll tell you this...

The first 10 customers will get something Super extra Special in their package!!!

And the first 5, something even more special!

That's on top of the Super Crazy Amazing sales!

The first hourly sale will be announced Friday morning at 9am
{to give all you black friday shoppers a chance}

Oh ya, did I mention there will be some super fun new product?!

Oh, I didn't?

Well...

Saturday Craft Show :: Black Friday

2010-11-23T16:01:00.000-05:00

This past weekend I was in a craft show. I normally stick with the juried shows as they have high end vendors and I know that the vendor set up will look nice and professional.

I was contacted by a local to see if I wanted to join their show as they thought my items would "fit well". She had an etsy shop with some cute little items so I thought why not? It's close, there will be local vendors, and it's a chance to get my name out there locally.

Let's just say that when I got there to set up, my first thought was "Oh boy, this is gonna be a looooong day!" My items couldn't have been more 'off'. But, I had a good time, met some locals, made more than my table fee, and had a break from Mommy Duties. So I can't really complain. "Will I be doing the show again next year?" "Um, probably not."

{New headbands, these went like hotcakes!}

{Frames, Earrings, Memo Boards}

{Glass Tile Pendants}

Funny story with this picture. There was 3 young children walking by, all aged between 8-10, 2 boys 1 girl. The boy pointed at the "butt" of the mannequin and giggled and the little girl, who was the oldest, exclaimed, "That is SO INAPPROPRIATE!!!" That made the whole day worth it!

{Rosebud Earrings}

{Rings, Frames, Notebooks, Hair Pins, Necklaces, Peonies}

{Crown Magnetic Memo Clips. Headbands, Rings, Earrings, Pillows, Frames, Boards}

I was incredibly low on inventory since the week before I had a Humungo order that left no time to craft items for the show, but it still went pretty well. The husband wanted to know why I was even bothering with the show...I wanted to at least make my table fee back and there was No Way I was going to give up a day off from the normal!! :)

Plus, Kristen from LoveFeastTable came to visit me and we got to chat for a little bit, and I met one of her friends {who is a hoot! wish she had a blog...}.

Now to get the shop ready for Black Friday sales!!!

I will announce the deets here later tonight. Be sure to like on Facebook and follow on Twitter to keep up-to-date. So many different Uh. Mazing deals going down. You will Not want to miss these!

Winner of The Bead Girl Giveaway

2010-11-04T12:44:00.000-04:00

Winner if the $40 shop credit to The Bead Girl is....

Deb! who said she would love this

How appropriate!! :)

Deb, email me and we'll get your winnings squared way.

Winner chosen via Random.org

Halloween Fun :: Traditions

2010-11-02T14:26:00.000-04:00

Since I am delayed in getting my newest project up {hopefully up tonight} I thought I would show you a few pics from the past weekend!

Super Hero {in Disguise}, Mad Scientist, Lil Black Kitty Cat, Mama Cat

Aren't they just the cutest things ever!?

We always walk around our local Historic town before hitting the neighborhood. We start with the free drinks!!! then move to the yummy coffee...

I loved how she looked running back to us after every house! {bad pic, but you get the idea}

She was so thrilled she got to wear black kitty nails!

There was a house this year that offered "grown-up" treats, can we say "warm yummy schnapps!" I wasn't cold after that :)

The night was so wonderful and we had a blast!

I have the best family in the whole world!

Yes, it's true. Hate to break it to ya.

We were truly Blessed with an amazing evening and I am so thankful for the wonderful memories/traditions we've created for our children to carry on to their families!

Eclectic Whatnot Winner

2010-11-02T08:30:00.000-04:00

Wanna know who the super duper lucky duck winner of the awesomely amazing $25 giveway is?!

You do??

Are you hoping it's you?!

Well, if you're Ellzabelle, then you are one lucky duck!

Congrats to you! Shoot me an email and we'll get it all squared away

For those of you that did not win, go and 'Like' Eclectic Whatnot on Facebook. Ruthanne posts giveaways going on so you can have another chance!!

How cool is that!?

{Winner chosen via Random.org}

*********************************************

Want a chance to win something else?

Of course you do!

Last chance to enter The Bead Girl {Lisa} giveaway! Closes at midnight tonight.

Some seriously cute stuff!

So go on and enter, it will make you feel better after ~~losing~~ not winning this giveaway!

Halloween Countdown Project

2010-10-28T11:05:00.000-04:00

Because of a certain conference {not naming any names here}, I was delayed in this post.

I had this super cute idea, and I actually implemented it! Amazing, I know.

I had a few $ mailboxes from Tarjay left over and thought it would be really cute to make them into Halloween countdown treat holders!

This is the front. One for each of my kiddos. {btw, felt very maternally inadequate after said conference, like I don't have enough children. :) One woman I met has 8 boys! and 3 girls!}

Side profile. When the flag is up, they have received a special delivery

For my science boy

And my whimsical kitty girl

The back view

Special delivery!

I wanted to find all of the neat Halloween candy to fill these up with, like wax lips, gummy eyeballs, zombie finger-pops, pirate gold (bubble-gum), etc...

They love them, and ask me every morning, "When is our special delivery arriving!?"

After Halloween I have another idea for them! I reveal that 11/1. But, just in case you want to join me in this project...you'll want to get yourself some of these, or other type of container you can embellish.

Giveaway #2 :: Eclectic Whatnot

2010-10-28T09:12:00.001-04:00

Giveaway now closed

Because you all rock, and stick around even though I sometimes don't post anything for a month, I have another Uh. Mazing giveaway for you all.

Ruthanne’s work at Eclectic Whatnot gives her the opportunity to combine two of her loves – photography and sewing. Her shop features shabby, chic and just plain fun camera strap covers. Her sewing is fueled by good coffee, streaming episodes of 24 and show tunes. When she’s not sewing, she’s either homeschooling her crew or stalking them with her camera. And sometimes she does both simultaneously.

I have the Lemon Drop on it's way to me, and I can't wait!

My other total fav is Sea Breeze

Don't have a Digital SLR? No worries! Use this gorgeousness to cover your camera bag strap!!

Traci from Ordinary Inspirations did just that!

Now the Deets!

To enter:

Leave a comment telling me which one is your absolute fav!

Follow Ruthanne on Twitter

Subscribe to Eclectic Whatnot blog

Follow Our Daily Chocolate blog

Leave ONE comment for each entry.

There are 4 ways to win, so only 4 comments max please. {makes my job easier}

Don't forget to leave me your email addy!

{Contest closes Saturday Nov. 1st-winner will be announced that evening}

200 & I Missed It? :: Giveaway

2010-10-26T19:00:00.004-04:00

Giveaway now Closed

Oh my Gosh! What a whirlwind this past weekend was.

If you haven't heard of the Relevant Conference {because you've been living under a rock!}, well, it was this past weekend.

Thursday-Saturday. By an amazing act of God I was able to attend. I didn't know I was going to attend until 11:30am Thursday. Yes, you read that correct. I had to pack and prepare my family for my 3-day absence in under 4 hours!

{Me with my Relevant Roomies Kristen @LoveFeast & Mela @MelaKamin}

I want so badly to tell you all about my amazing story and how I got to go to Relevant. Those of you who follow me on twitter, know how hard I was trying, but it just. wasn't. happening.

Until...

But. I am hoping to do my very first vlog

and will share that story soon! You'll get the full impact much better that way, I think!

On to more important things!

Because you, my dear readers, have put up with my crazy absence this past month, and because somehow I totally missed it when I reached 200 followers, I want to offer you all an Uh. Mazing giveaway!

No, wait! I am going to offer two amazing giveaways, because you all Rock!

{so tune in tomorrow for another great giveaway!}

Lisa from Studio Jewel is so very graciously offering one of you lucky readers a $40 shop credit!

Her jewelry is just so very beautiful, unique, and just pure loveliness!

Entries for Studio Jewel

Leave a comment telling me your favorite piece

Follow Our Daily Chocolate blog

Follow Studio Jewel blog

Follow Lisa on Twitter

Follow Our Daily Chocolate on Twitter
Like Studio Jewel on Facebook

Please leave a separate comment for each.

You can only do each once, so please, leave me 6 comments at most. It makes my job so much easier!

Winner will be chosen via Random.org next Tuesday

Almost A Month

2010-10-20T11:41:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow will be one month since my last blog post! {should I have even pointed that out?}

For some reason I thought things would slow down once school started...boy was I wrong!

I have been busy teaching, crafting, selling, crafting, teaching, cleaning, going insane...

For those of you who are rosebud earring lovers, {and don't follow me on twitter} you'll be happy to know I have created some new designs!

Warning! Tons of pics!!

And introducing a new color! Mint Avocado.

Also in shop, a new flower!

So there! I have been pretty busy! :)

Want to win a set of Rosebud Dangles? Just leave me any ole' comment and you'll be entered.

{I have a few projects I've been working on and will share them this week, promise! ;)}

Fall Decor :: Shop Announcement

2010-09-21T11:17:00.002-04:00

We moved into our new home 6 months ago, and I still feel like I'm moving in. It's much smaller than our old place, so a lot of things stayed in boxes in our basement.

I have been going through them every ~~day~~ ~~week~~ month trying to get rid of things.

I was just going through a box yesterday when I located my floral stem bin. I opened it to see what I could get rid of when I found some Fall stems I forgot I had.

{so glad I did not buy some two days ago and shopped my home instead!}

I hauled them out and quickly put together a fall arrangement.

Is it the most stunning? no. The most beautiful? probably not. Is it perfect for me? Absolutely.

I get to enjoy fall colors without spending a dime!

The second arrangement was made using other items I found in that bin. The pieces were originally intended for a different project, but for now, their on display.

Again, is it the most beautiful thing you've ever seen? Probably not.

It needs more beads to cover the stems and could use some other things, but it was Free...and I always love free.

They bring me joy to look at them. I love Fall colors and these really bring a great pop of color into my home.

Shop your home and see what you can come up with. You may just find something that will bring you joy to set up and display.

Shop Announcement

~~I am clearing out current inventory in my shop, everything is 50% off. When making a purchase, I will refund the difference. Just know that you will pay half of the price shown.~~

*Note: Craft Supplies Category is 25% off

Sale has ended

Monthly Card Layout:September

2010-09-20T14:31:00.000-04:00

I love receiving cards via snail mail! Nothing is sweeter than knowing someone took enough time to think about you and to let you know they were.

My favorite are handmade cards {but I love just about any card}. Receiving one in the mail is like a little present, made just for you!

I thought I would do something new each month here on ODC.

A monthly card layout.

Once a month I will post a layout and then we can link back here with our creations! I'll post the layout one week in advance of the linkup.

This is perfect for stocking up on your cards! I love to have several cards on hand, that way when I need one for something, I'm not racing around trying to put one together or being forced to buy one.

Here is the layout for this month.

Remember, we'll link up in one week. I'll set up a post with Mr. Linky.

Can't wait to see your creations!!

New Chocoholic Winner

2010-09-20T11:58:00.000-04:00

Well, the previous winner never claimed her gift, so I chose a new winner. Cuz I'm the blog owner and I can do that! And because I really wanted to give one of these to you lovely readers!

So the new winner is...

RaCeNMoMmy

Just shoot me an email and let me know which pendant you'd like!

P.s. Check out her blog, it's super cute!

Thanks again to all of my Chocoholics!!

Some Fall Goodies and a Tutorial

2010-09-16T15:21:00.000-04:00

Two things I've worked on this week:

I am loving this Fall wall art. I couldn't decide if I wanted to add the word 'Harvest', 'Faith', or 'Give Thanks'. So I listed it in my shop with the buyers option.

The other items was this Candy Corn inspired wreath:

My kiddos were asking for something "Halloween-y", and I don't really have much in the way of Halloween decor. So I quickly came up with this this morning.

Want to know how to make one? It's super easy and {at most} will cost you less than $3

Supplies needed:

Dollar Store foam wreath

White crepe paper streamer

Orange crepe paper streamer

Glue

Wrap the wreath form in desired color.

Once that's done, cut several strips of each color crepe paper. About 4-5" long.

I alternated my colors, but you could put them however you like. I started with my top and then did the sides.

I decided to leave the center empty as it was just easier and my guys were begging me to hang it up "right now". I'll probably add more to it/change it completely. But it's super cute and works for them.

Just FYI, I completed this this morning in less than an hour...

Have you started you Halloween decorating yet?

Is it too soon?

When do you normally start?

Click here to find me on Facebook

Chocoholic Giveaway Winner

2010-09-15T14:49:00.002-04:00

Congrats to Becky!

Winner of the Chocoholic {follower} giveaway!

Email me the pendant of your choice and I will get it to you.

Thank you to ALL of my Chocoholics for sticking around and leaving comments. Your comments are very helpful, letting me know what you love, and what you don't love as much! ;)

We will do another giveaway next month for all of you chocoholics. What it will be...I have no idea, but it'll be something good!

The Scent of Fall

2010-09-14T11:54:00.003-04:00

and Caramel Apples are in the air!

{this is a re-post from 9-23-08, so yummy, it's worth sharing again! Enjoy!}

With the new season here, it's time for new afternoon snacks. And what better snack than (mini) caramel apples?!

These are perfect for snacks (and less junk in the tummy too).

Here is a step-by-step guide to get you started on your own scrumptious snack!

1. Using your melon baller, scoop out apple balls and pat them dry. Be sure to have skin on a part of the apple as that will act as the bottom. Insert your toothpick and pat again to clean up any juice that may have come out.

2. Prepare your caramel as instructions require. (Set out your toppings so they are ready to go). Now dip your apples and cover them as much as you desire.

3. Immediately dip your caramel apple into the topping of your choice.

4. Arrange them to take pretty pictures. Then place in the fridge for about 1/2 an hour so the caramel will set.

5. Eat and enjoy! (there was so much enjoying I forgot to take a picture of that!) :-)

Click here to like ODC on Facebook

Follower Giveaway

2010-09-08T15:26:00.000-04:00

I was thinking...always a dangerous thing, but I thought and I thunk, and think maybe I came up with something fun!

A follower giveaway!

Sounds fun right!

I think for my 1st giveaway, I will let the winner pick their very own Fall In Love With Fall pendant.

If you follow with something other than Google Friend leave a comment here.

I will pick a winner one week from today 9/15

This is only open to followers, so if you want to win, all you have to do is be a follower.

Pretty simple.

More Fabric Peonies

2010-09-08T09:58:00.000-04:00

I am hooked on making these. I made this one for Fall and am totally in love with! I added a different material and just love the look it gives. I also adore the "burnt" edges, gives it more dimension I think.

I have a few more colors to make and I can't wait!

I am currently working on a tutorial and trying to make it a simple as possible. It's loaded with pics and I'm trying not to make it too wordy.

Click here to like ODC on Facebook

Fall in Love with FALL

2010-09-01T18:02:00.000-04:00

Fall in Love with FALL

New to my shop

Be prepared to fall in love...

p.s. the Grace necklace is available on OpenSky

1st Beadboard Project

2010-08-31T18:03:00.000-04:00

I love beadboard! I want it all over my house! Well, all over in a pretty way. But since I am renting I cannot/willnot add it to the house. I can however, decorate with it.

I made this easy-to-make frame using beadboard, wood trim, some faux vintage keyplates and knobs.

Of course I had to paint it with my fav! Heirloom White. The trim is black. I used a walnut glaze to go over the keyplates to give is a vintage look. This frame was created as a copycat of something I saw in some magazine...wish I could remember. {If you know, please share and I will mention it}

I just love how it turned out!

I can now enjoy some beadboard, however minimal it may be.

My other recent love?

Isn't she just so pretty! I've worn her pretty much every day this past week and got a ton of compliments every time!

I need to make more!!!

What about you? Any new recent loves?

Fabric Peony

2010-08-25T10:12:00.004-04:00

I am on a fabric kick as of late. I created another type of flower that I don't think anyone else has made. At least, I haven't seen any online... They really are super simple!

{I am currently putting together a tutorial and will post here when it's done}

"Aren't I beautiful!" says the fabric peony.

I can be worn as a brooch or pinned to a headband, shoes, purse, dog, husband, you get the idea.

And for the rustic chic look, how cute am I on burlap! I love this, I'm dressed down but can still be worn with anything! Like when you're slinging horse poo. It's essential to be cute when slinging horse poo!

I have many layers! NOT like an onion, however, thankyouverymuch! Some are hidden from this view but I have 9 total.

I (spoken by human) just love it!

I am now going to make many more of these in several different colors. I'm thinkin Fall baby!

Click here to Like ODC on Facebook

The Real Tutorial :: Fabric Rosette Headband

2010-08-24T13:45:00.000-04:00

Sorry about the extra long Manana. The days just got away from me. Seems to be a pretty constant thing this past month. We have had such a busy summer. Our September will be even busier. We have plans every weekend that month plus we start school after Labor Day. Oh, and we're driving 12hrs to visit my in-laws. {I'm super excited about that trip}.

But you aren't here to listen to me talk about how busy I am. You're here for a {belated} tutorial. (which is very pic heavy)

So, on with the show.

You will need fabric, 2 felt circles-per rosette (which you can cut out of a sheet of felt), hot glue, headband, and an embellishment for the center of your flower.

When purchasing my fabric, I usually get 1/4 yard. I then cut it in about 1" strips (tear if you want the frayed look). Do not measure, just eyeball it.

Starting with one strip, tie a knot in the end. This will be the center of your rosette. Then glue that to your fabric circle.

Cut your felt circle to the size you want your rosette to be.

You will then start to twist and wrap around, gluing the fabric to the felt every so often.

You can wrap loosely or tight, which ever look you like best. I prefer loose for the frayed rosette.

Once you are to the edge of your felt you will tuck the last bit of fabric underneath, gluing in place.

So pretty! Now you can add an embellishment to glam it up a bit, or leave it for a nice simple look.

Once you have finished blingin' out your rosette, you can glue it to the headband.

Nice and secure. Now you will glue your second felt circle to the back of the rosette to help secure it and keep it attached.

Do this for however many rosettes you wish to make. They are quite addictive so I recommend you have plenty of felt and fabric on hand. Fair warning.

Fabric Rosette Headband :: Tutorial

2010-08-21T23:05:00.000-04:00

Wednesday evening was spent making a special headband per my 4yr old DD's request. She wanted a headband like mommy's. I took that request to mean that I could make any kind of fancy headband I wanted. I had been meaning to make her one of these anyway...so what better time than when she wants something totally different!?

I chose this fabric because, believe it or not, it's pretty neutral. It goes really well with almost everything in her wardrobe. Pink, green, navy, white, blue, red, spaghetti sauce, chocolate sauce, au natural... you get the picture. Plus, it's just cute fabric!

I used brads for the centers. I couldn't decide if I wanted something in the center of the two small rosettes, hence the one above with and the other without, hence I am too lazy to take a new pic of them both with, hence you get to see my laziness, hence...I'm all outta hence's.

I love the frayed look to these! I think it looks very beachy and summery. I was going to cover the headband, but she said "Nuh-Uh! I like it pink!" Fine, fine...it's the least I could do.

Now she wants more, in other colors. She has been into my fabric stash and has pulled out SEVERAL pieces. I asked her which one she wanted and she said "All of them!"

Of course.

So I promised her I would teach HER how to make them! Folks, these are so easy, a 4yr old can do them!

I mentioned a tutorial, didn't I? Why yes, yes I did. But you don't get it until tomorrow. Cuz I'm lazy remember! I didn't edit the pics...so you'll just have to wait.

No-Sew Fabric Rosette Headband Tutorial

Coming

Manana!

Playful Pendants

2010-08-14T12:18:00.000-04:00

This past week has been filled with several custom pieces and a few fun things thrown in with no real purpose (other than to give me a break).

These pendants are two of those fun things with no purpose.

This turned out so cute! I have discontinued my yellow rosebuds, but I had this little mini one left. I thought it would make a great pendant.

This one was something I had never tried before. I wanted to have a raised look but still have it sealed. I just dropped the items in the pendant and poured a glaze over it. I love it!

Ok, back to the craft table for me! Enjoy your weekend!

Beauty In A Box

2010-08-13T09:54:00.000-04:00

I just had to share this with you all. Look. At this gorgeous custom piece my sponsor just created! I just saw it in her shop and thought it was too pretty not to share.

Remember, she can do custom work for you too!

Fabric Earrings :: Giveaway Winner

2010-08-11T11:23:00.001-04:00

The winner of the super cute fabric covered earrings is...

Erin who said...

AHHH! I love these!!! You are so creative! Can you be my personal accessory stylist?!?!

Erin, I'd love to! :)

Send me your email and I will get your choice set in the mail.

Thanks to all who entered.

Didn't win? No worries, I'm putting the others in my shop.

Sponsor Giveaway Winner

2010-08-11T08:57:00.000-04:00

The winner for my sponsor giveaway is...

Dee who said...

Very cute!! Those have to take talent. I am no good at painting. I like B :)

Dee, just email me your address and Erin will get that mirror shipped out to you.Thanks so much to all who entered. If you didn't win, don't fret! You can purchase anything in Whimsical Wood Designs shop and receive 10% off!When checking out, just mention code DailyChocolate.

Fabric Earrings :: Giveaway

2010-08-07T14:33:00.001-04:00

Giveaway Now Closed

While in the middle of filling custom orders this week, I took a little break and created a little something for myself. I very rarely do that but was inspired when I pulled some items out that I hadn't used in a while.

I thought these were super cute and I have already received so many compliments on them!

These earrings are made using fabric covered brads! I just clipped the brad posts off the back and attached an earring post. Super simple and super cute!

These are some others that I made.

They were so much fun and only took about 8 minutes to complete 4 pairs. Can't beat that!

And while I was inspired to create these it inspired me further to

give one away to one of my readers.

Nothing crazy to enter, just leave a comment letting me know you'd like to win a pair

and I will choose a winner Monday 8/9.

You'll have a choice of those three up there.

Well, I am off to finish orders. Enjoy the weekend!

Feature Friday :: Etsy Edition

2010-08-06T11:25:00.004-04:00

Another week has gone by, and I still don't feel like I've truly enjoyed summer. It's all gone by in such a speedy frenzy of To-Do's that I haven't been able to just,

sit.

relax.

enjoy the summer fruits.

or be lazy by the pool.

And it's all almost over! But I'm not too upset about that. My favorite season is Fall, and that's usually when I can sit and relax and enjoy nature. I am really looking forward to Fall this year. We are planning a road trip to Skyline Drive in Va. I can't wait! I just love the beauty of Fall.

But before I go rushing into the next season, I am going to try to slow down and enjoy what's left of summer.

And Etsy helps me do that!

Such beauty!

Do you find Summer inspiration on Etsy?

New Sponsor :: Giveaway

2010-08-03T15:40:00.003-04:00

I am sure some of you may have noticed that fun button over to the left there. That's my new sponsor, Erin of Whimsical Wood.

This woman is full of talent! She makes THE CUTEST items ever! Her frames can be made into mirrors or jewelry holders as well!

This is my favorite!

I love her. I love her items. So will you!

She can create custom orders too!

Annnnddd...She has graciously offered to give away a super cute mirror to one lucky reader!

Entering this contest is the simplest thing ever! All you have to do is leave a comment stating which mirror you like best! (A,B, or C) Entries Close Friday 8/6 and I will pick a random.org winner then.

Also, please be sure to leave your email address in the comment so I can reach you should you win!

One entry not enough for you?

The following are optional. Please leave a separate comment for each.

Follow Whimsical Wood on Twitter @whimsicalwoodmd

Like Whimsical Wood on Facebook

And if you REALLY want a lot of entries to win this awesome fabulousness... any purchase gets you 5 entries!!!

So what are you waiting for? Which mirror do you like best?

Thrifty Thursday :: Christmas In July

2010-07-29T17:24:00.000-04:00

I have decided to reinstate my Thrifty Thursday. Also, I will have themed days throughout the week. This will help me with more regular posts, and I won't get stressed out about not having a new project everyday!

So the week will be:

Monday (whatever I post)

Tutorial Tuesday

Paper Craft Wednesday

Thrifty Thursday

Feature Friday:Etsy Edition

Saturday (whatever I post)

Having this schedule will also help hold me accountable when life gets too crazy.

So lets kick off Thrifty Thursday! This week, I'm featuring a way for YOU to be thrifty!

Christmas In July!

Between now and the end of July you can save 25% when you purchase from Our Daily Chocolate Boutique de Papier

Now is the time to stock up on Christmas Gifts!

Bloom!

2010-07-28T10:24:00.000-04:00

Has anyone seen her? Is she away? Have you seen her online? Is she still ALIVE????

Yes, yes, I am still alive!

I tell you, when life hits me, it hits pretty hard! But I am now back to (what I hope to be) my regular posting schedule!

A few days ago I was able to get some crafting done and I came up with such a cute little idea. I had a frame, buttons, paper, and chipboard letters.

So I came up with this adorable BLOOM frame!

You can find this in my Etsy Shop now! I think I may have to make a second one, because I am just lovin' it!

Ruffle Wreath Tutorial :: $ Store Craft

2010-06-15T13:46:00.001-04:00

I have had this idea in my mind for a while now and finally had the time to put it into action.{Please excuse the poor photo quality, I did this project late last night and wanted to make a tutorial out of it}

I totally love how it turned out! Want to know how to make one? Then keep reading!

You will need:

Floral foam wreath from the $ store
100ct of white coffee filters {I used 99 on this wreath}
Stapler and at at least 100 staples
White Ribbon
Fav ribbon (for hanging wreath)
Radiant Rain or Shimmer Mist

~~First you want to fold the filters in half~~ First, you want to wrap your wreath form in white ribbon, THEN fold your filters. Learn from my mistake!

Then in half again

Fold the tip up to where the ruffles start

This Next part is hard to put into words. You just want to start stapling them on and stagger them next to each other to that you don't have gaps...make sense? The very bottom row is the only one that will be in a straight row.

Keep working your way around the wreath until it is completely covered.

Take your shimmer spray and spray over the entire thing. This really adds some more depth and charm to this wreath.

How perfectly sweet is this!? If I would have thought about this years ago, I would have used them as wedding decorations! Since I didn't, I will enjoy having it on the door to my bedroom.

This just makes me smile every time I look at it, and it only cost me $2 to make, which makes me smile even bigger!

I'm linking this post to CSI today.

Sneak Peak at {just a few} New Items for 2010

2010-06-04T10:39:00.001-04:00

As I'm sure you have noticed, I have been away from my blogging duties for about a week now. I have a show coming up this weekend so I have been working my little fingers to the bone {and getting sick in the process} to get product done and ready.

Here is a sneak peak at just a very small sampling of what I will be offering this year. Enjoy!

Very pretty blue damask print birthday crown

Don't mind the model with no make-up and messy hair, she's volunteer...{but do take note of how tan she is becoming!}

Black and White Birthday crown, with some beautiful sparkly bling!

This will be the first time I have offered anything for little princesses. Last year, at this particular show, I had several little girls who wanted things, but nothing was little princess friendly. Hopefully they will like these.

Some Fancy Nancy pens, with lots of fun sparkle and bling.

Several different ones to choose from, just not all pictured.

Coming next week...

Paper Rosette tutorial
Fancy Nancy pen tutorial
New items in Etsy

Memo Clips::Yes They're Magnetic

2010-05-24T15:23:00.000-04:00

With inspiration from my Memo Boards, I thought I'd make a few Memo Clips.

How fun are these? Super cute crown shaped, magnet wooden memo clips, with some fun bling!

Cause what would a crown be without some bling?

It would be boring! That's what it would be.

And I do not do boring!

Do You??

Magnetic Memo Boards

2010-05-20T10:30:00.001-04:00

I have a craft show coming up on June 6th. I am super busy trying to get things made. I'm super busy trying to get things made WITH a sprained hand! Ya, I'm not moving as fast as I'd like, and that stresses me out.

So, to de-stress myself, I thought I'd try a new craft idea. Thus, the super cute and chic magnetic memo board was born. Hope you like it as much I do!

I am loving this blue damask print. The magnet is made using the coordinating paper. Of course, I had to add some burlap and a little french flair!

The next one is made using this super chic pink print. Not sure what the design is called, but I love it!

Again, more burlap and French flair

I am in love with this magnet! I made 3 more for my fridge. They are just too fun!

Hope you enjoyed that. I will be making several more of these and selling them at the Strawberry Days Festival. I can't wait! I did really well last year, so praying for the same blessing this year.

Paper Rosette Wreath

2010-05-19T11:06:00.003-04:00

I love making paper rosettes, and I love making wreaths. So, I combined the two.

I heart it. My hubby does not. He thinks it's weird. And maybe it is, but I like it. It makes me happy looking at it, so it stays.

Our house has two front doors, The main door, which opens to an entryway and then to the front door that actually lets you inside the home. (I'm sure it has a proper name, but I don't care that much to google it. If you know what it's called, please feel free to leave it in the comments for me. Thanks!)

This wreath is on the second front door, so I'm not worried about the elements ruining it.

And those colors! I am loving those colors right now! And this wreath is totally changeable, so...if I do decide that it's weird, I can just change it to something my hubby will probably think even weirder!

What have you done with paper recently?

Other posts that may interest you:

Butterfly Frame

Burlap Hair Bow Holder

Glittered Alpha Frames

Altered Wall Hooks

Stamp Bucket::Organization

2010-05-18T10:43:00.001-04:00

I don't know about you, but I can never have too many stamps! I heart me some stamps! Unfortunately, I have so many, and not enough places to keep them. I have a few drawers where they are laid out and easily accessible. I also have a neat little stand I found while thrifting. That stand holds my most commonly used stamps, my 'go-to' stamps if you will.

While I was at said thrifting trip I found this hideous orange bucket. Totally ugly. And of course, I forgot to take a before a pic. But the after! Oh this after is so much better.

I repainted the bucket a very pretty blue and stamped the word 'stamps' on the front. So now I have a catch-all for those loose stamps that I use often, but not everyday

I just love reaching into this pretty bucket and pulling out wonderfully fun stamps. I also love the word stamps! I'm also a goofy dork!

Moral of this story? Never leave something at the thrift store just because it is a hideously, gross, ugly, orange thing. Paint does wonders my friends!

And don't forget to stop by and visit me at Layton Family Joy today!

I'm at Layton Family Joy Today!

2010-05-18T08:57:00.000-04:00

On our way home from church Sunday afternoon, my son asked us what divorce is. My husband and I both asked the same question at the same time, "Where did you hear that?". Not because we were worried, just curious...

Want to hear more? Stef from Layton Family Joy so generously ~~obliged when I begged~~ asked if I would guest post on her blog, and I jumped at the opportunity.

My blog really isn't a place for me to 'write'. As you all know, it's mostly tutorials and photos. So having the chance to share a little was really nice.

Go check out Stef's blog. You will not be disappointed. She has some amazing insight and is madly in love with The Lord! And she is so funny!!!! Oh, and she just loves my earrings, so really, how could she not be fun!?

Isn't she just the cutest!

Now give her a visit, and read the rest of my post there.

Winner Winner, Chicken Dinner

2010-05-17T20:35:00.000-04:00

We have a winner!! Mr. Random chose one of you lucky readers to be the proud new owner of a true, authentic, Abigail Leigh Handbag!

That winner is.....

Comment #2!

Jackie (who doesn't have a blog, go figure!) :)

Thanks to all who entered. And thanks to my new sponsor, Abigail Leigh! She's great!

Now get yourself (or a friend) a super cute and super-priced handbag! And remember, she can custom order, so your bag can look just how you want it! How great is that!?

(Jackie, please contact me with your info so we can get that sweetie up there on it's way to you. You have 48hrs to respond)

Guest Blogging at Fun To Craft::Tutorial

2010-05-13T06:00:00.005-04:00

Today I'm guest blogging at Fun To Craft! Stacey had a temporary moment of insanity, so I jumped at the opportunity and have hijacked her blog!

I have a sweet little tutorial to share with you all.

So head on over there and check it out! Her blog is A.Maz.Ing! Be prepared, there a ton of other awesome crafty ideas on her blog, fair warning.

Don't forget, today is the last day to enter the giveaway hosted by my sponsor,
Abigail Leigh Handbags.

Enter Here. Winner will be chosen tomorrow!

Wanna Know More?

2010-05-12T13:51:00.001-04:00

I've been interviewed!

Want to know more about moi?

Go to Gather Inspirit and read all about it.

PLUS, you can be entered to win a super sweet pair of earrings from yours truly. Just head on over there. You won't be disappointed. At least, I hope not!

I am also offering an extra 15% off the earrings from now through the 18th! But you have to go read the interview to get the code.

*And don't forget to enter my sponsors giveaway! Only 2 days left to enter! Don't miss out!

Some Super Awesomeness::And A Giveaway

2010-05-11T08:41:00.002-04:00

I don't know if you all noticed, but I have a GREAT new sponsor. Yep, <--- Over there.

Her name is Abigail Leigh and she makes the most DARLING handbags!! She also does CUSTOM orders!! And what's super great, her prices are so amazingly awesome you'll want to buy one for your friends, neighbors,strangers, etc!

I have this bag! I LOVE this bag!!

It's called the Audrey bag. I love it for three reason's. It's so super cute and stylish, it's totally functional, and it shares the same name as my daughter!

She has several other designs and styles to choose from, such as

The large Maggie bag

This Darling Wristlet

The Olive bag (in a beautiful Kelly Green)

And she has several different clutches to choose from as well

But the BEST PART

She is giving one of you lucky readers this amazingly ADORABLE Audrey bag!

How perfect is this for Summer time?! Just perfect! I know!!

All you have to do is go to her shop, come back here, and leave a comment letting us know which one is your favorite.

The winner will be chosen via random.org on Friday 5/14

Want more entries to win? Do the following and leave a separate comment for each.

Follow Abigail Leigh's blog {here}
Follow Abigail Leigh on Twittter {here}
Make a purchase and leave a comment {here}. This will earn you 5 extra entries

Good Luck! And spread the word. She is too amazing to keep under wraps!

Super Awesomeness Coming tomorrow!

2010-05-10T15:41:00.000-04:00

Come back tomorrow for something super exciting! I promise you will not want to miss this!

See that sponsor over there (<---)? Trust me! Not something you want to miss!

Some Creatin' Going On!

2010-05-05T12:17:00.000-04:00

I have been super busy with earring making, but managed to squeeze some other creatin' in. I also have another project I am working on, so excited about this one, I think it's super cute!

So here are the few things I managed to work on this week (other than earrings!) :)

This frame was need of a makeover. I actually liked the finish of it, so no spray paint was necessary for this one. Shocker, I know!

Much better with that sweet little spoon. Don't you think? My sweet momma sent me a box of vintage silverware from my grandmother. I have many more pieces. I have a project idea in my head... we'll see how it turns out. I need the time first!

Next, was this super cute nautical ring. I used one of my fabric rosettes (from the previous post) and a cute little button that was given to me in a swap.

I just love how it turned out. So much fun.

I then went on a ring making craze! I created this little beauty! A slightly different style of rose from my earrings, but still the same cuteness! Only in ring form!

You all may remember my roses from before. I decided to make this one a ring as well. See? I told you. Ring makin' craze!

All of the rings are made using an adjustable band. You may or may not see them in my shop. :)

Hopefully I will have time this week to get more creating done.

What have you created recently?

Pretty Fabric Rosettes::No Sew

2010-05-03T09:10:00.001-04:00

I have been wanting to make these little cuties for some time now, but have been to ~~lazy~~ busy to try. The needle and thread thing, not something I dive right into. I'm in the process of teaching myself to sew, but I ~~get really scared thinking about needles and thread~~ just ~~didn't feel like getting the needle and thread out to try~~ was so busy. Then Amanda showed me a SUPER smart way to do them. Not so sure why I didn't think of it myself. I guess I just needed some inspiration on this one. {Thanks Amanda!}

She shows a great tutorial on how she made hers. It's super easy to do, just take a strip of fabric {the length depends on how big you want your rosette} and twist, wrap, glue. You're done! I love the way they turned out, and as she said, you just want to make so many more! I made a ton! I am adding them to everything, in all different colors of fabric. They really spruce up plain-jane items. {I didn't actually put these on my sweater, I just set them there for a photo-op}

I added some to my daughters plain t-shirts, they are just too cute. All I did for that was cut some iron-adhesive, put it on the back of the flowers, and ironed away. Hopefully they'll stay. We'll see...
I haven't taken a photo of those yet, so for now, enjoy me. Again.

What have you done with fabric lately? Have you done a no-sew project? Please share! I love to see your creations.