q-bella

2010-06-06T22:48:00.000-07:00

I love these wings, made out of a vintage table cloth. Go to Small Magazine for the tutorial. (If you know my daughter Quincy then you know that she would love this. She likes to wear her butterfly wings everywhere, unfortunately nylon butterfly wings aren't durable enough to wear everywhere. However, these wings could easily be worn down a slide, or on a swing.)

Another fabric Flower Tutorial

2010-06-04T10:03:00.000-07:00

I love this tutoriall from Hey! Jen Renee. I especially love how the brooches decorate a simple shirt. Now, if I could just shake off my lazy mood and get crafting.

Summer Crafts For Kids

2010-06-04T09:43:00.001-07:00

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The Long Thread recently shared a list of summer crafts for kids. The girls and I will for sure be doing some of the things on this list. Maybe we will even get my sweet husband involved.

Family Dinner

2010-06-02T22:06:00.000-07:00

My Dad is amazing in the kitchen (he would have me add, that he is amazing with the BBQ as well). He rarely follows a recipe, but everything turns out delicious. Unfortunately, I didn't inherit this skill. My Father, worried that his grand daughters were eating cereal for every meal, gave me this cook book. I can't say enough about this book, if I was you I would go out and buy it. (No pressure, I just love it that much.)
Tonight, I made Shepard's Pie (from this book). Here are two videos of my family enjoying their dinner. Both are too CUTE.

Wall Mural

2010-05-28T23:25:00.000-07:00

Design Mom just shared pictures of her son's room. I love the mural, and it was surprisingly easy to make. Now all I need is a huge empty wall, and a different image.

Pandora

2010-05-27T19:41:00.000-07:00

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Have you heard of Pandora? Well, it's my new favorite thing. It's radio online, that allows you to make your own station. Go check it out, it's awesome!

Shadow Boxes

2010-05-24T22:41:00.000-07:00

Check out these beautiful shadow boxes by Darcy Miller on Martha Stewart's blog. I'm sure that you will find them inspiring. Here are just a few...

Bubble Wrap Hopscotch

2010-05-13T22:11:00.000-07:00

I love this! It is bubble wrap hopscotch, from the blog Givers Log.
This bubble wrap game is part of a series called 13 ounces or less. The series is full of light weight gifts that can be mailed first class for just a couple of bucks. I especially love this concept because I live away from most of my friends and family, and its a sweet way to keep in touch. Plus, who doesn't love mail?

The Best Asian Salad

2010-05-12T09:34:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Mother's Day! My family and I went to Josh's Aunts house for dinner, where his amazing cousin made dinner for everyone (Thanks again Megan!). She made this incredible Asian Noodle Salad and a fantastic quiche. You can find both recipes on Pioneer Woman. If you have never been to her blog then you should check it out, there are a ton of mouth watering recipes (Caution, her blog will make you hungry).B.T.W. I really loved that salad. I want to make it again for tonight. Soooooooooo good.

Perfect Flower

2010-05-05T17:31:00.000-07:00

I made it! The perfect flower. I just followed the tutorial from one of my favorite blogs Matsutake (I posted about it when I did a flower roundup a while back). I love them and plan on putting them on clips, headbands, and a special project that I will have to do later.

A Rescue Pic, Tom Brady and Family, And Winners

2010-05-03T11:48:00.000-07:00

Here is the picture from the other day, when we had to rescue Isabella from locking herself in my room. You can check out the story here.

Remember when I was at the park and saw Jennifer Garner? Well, while at the park last Thursday, Tom Brady and Gisele stopped by with their two boys. Of course I had to google the event and sure enough I was able to find a picture of Gisele and I. I also found a picture of Quincy running by. And if any of you were wondering...yes, we are at the park all the time.
Also, I picked a winner for my giveaway....everyone! If you entered then you won! I've been busy and all the headbands are done, and ready to be mailed. I especially liked this entry by my husband's friend, and wanted to share.

Mortgage Mann, "I deserve to win the headband for my beautiful little lady Vera."

Don't you just love a Dad who is completely smitten by his little girl? BTW I've seen Vera's picture and she is adorable, and I hope she likes the new headband. P.S. Since I don't know every winner's head size I just attached the felt hearts on headbands.

Art That I Heart

2010-04-28T20:51:00.000-07:00

This has been a crazy week. First, my sweet hubby just got a great job and he starts on Monday (Hooray for prayer...truly). Then, Isabella lost her blankie (not just any old blankie, but the blankie that she desperately needs to sniff in order to fall asleep. And yes, I did say sniff...don't judge). Lastly, a bunch of firefighters were running around my house today, because Isabella dead bolted herself in my room, and we don't have a key (try explaining to a 2 year old how to turn back the lock...pretty impossible.) Luckily, we had just purchased Newman's Own Oreo cookies, and we were sliding them under the door to keep her calm. Also, we were able to get in without risking my deposit, which I take very seriously. Quincy was a champ and slept through all the excitement, and is still trying to figure out how her sister got a plastic red fireman's hat. Josh took a picture on his phone, and I will be posting it soon. Whew! I told you that it has been an exciting week.

Now, since my husband just got a fantastic job, I am feeling optimistic about tackling somethings on my wish list. One of the things on my wish list is to get some art. I've been searching on Etsy and fell in love with the shop Vol25. I really love this picture.
I think that this picture would be perfect in a girl's room. It is such a great message, especially inside a beautiful girl's silhouette.
This picture is extra fantastic because there is a ton of color options.

The reason why I like the Etsy shop Vol25 so much is because there is a theme of love, and I don't think there can ever be too much love in a home.

Customized Posters

2010-04-26T13:19:00.000-07:00

I love sentimental, and that's why I love these customized posters that I found via etsy. I just can't decide which poster I like most. I could get a poster that celebrates my anniversary.
...Or I could get a monogram poster that has my girls initials.

...Or I could frame city coordinates. Perhaps I could frame the city coordinates of where my husband and I first kissed, got married, had a kid, or one of the many homes we have lived in.

...And if I had more wall space in my girls room, then I would get both of my girls one of these birth announcement posters.

If you love these posters as much as I do, then check out the etsy store I Love Design 2010, and get yourself one.

Headband Giveaway

2010-04-21T16:28:00.000-07:00

I LOVE giveaways! So, hopefully you do too, cause I am giving away this heart headband. If you want to win, be sure to:

*comment on this post - with your name and email address

*giveaway will be open until next Wednesday 12am

*winner announced Thursday

*extra entries granted for facebook, twitter, blog posts (just leave a link back)

Easiest Headband Ever!

2010-04-21T14:24:00.000-07:00

As you can tell from my blog, I love accessories. I especially love easy to make accessories, and it doesn't get any easier than these headbands. All you need to make one of these headbands is a bit of ribbon, an elastic pony tail holder, and decorate as desired.
Measure head and cut ribbon to length. Fold ribbon over pony tail (on both sides) and sew. That's it! I wasn't lying when I said this was easy.
If you are feeling the love, you can attach a sweet felt heart.
Or you can use some extra scraps of fabric and sew on a shiny button.

Celebrate spring showers with a little cloud.

Instead of ribbon, you could use a long strip of fabric like I did here.

Basically, what I am trying to show you is that the possibilities are endless. You can make it as simple or difficult as you want. Just use what you have around the home and have fun!

Vintage Doile + White Shirt = Love

2010-04-20T13:28:00.000-07:00

I love the blog Made By Lex. It is amazing all the things she can do with a plain white shirt. Here is an example of her genius. Now, all I need is an old doile and I'll be set. For more pictures on how Lex made this sweet little shirt click here, and while your there check out the rest of creations (you won't be disappointed).

Recycled Upside Down Plant

2010-04-15T21:41:00.000-07:00

I LOVE these recycled upside down planters! They are similar to the Topsy Turvy (as seen on T.V.), but much cooler. I think that the girls would love to watch tomatoes grow from their very own tomato plant. If you too, would love to make an upside down planter then go to Design sponge for the tutorial.

Happiness

2010-04-15T08:16:00.000-07:00

As a Mom, this picture just makes me happy. Had to share the happiness.

Hand and Foot Print Pages

2010-04-14T20:16:00.000-07:00

Busy day with Quincy's preschool books. Finished the hand print and foot print page. I think this page will look great with the cover and this page. (I think the fun is starting to wear off. I'll be ready to pick up that needle and thread soon.)

Baby Shower Game

2010-04-14T10:42:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I went to a baby shower and I was in charge of the games. One of the games we played required everyone to wear safety pins, so I made these. Now, instead of everyone putting a bunch of holes in there clothes they could pin them on these.

A closer look of all my hard work.

I made these little beauties so after the shower they could turn into a hair clip, or a pin.

BTW, this is the game we played.

Book Covers

2010-04-14T10:19:00.000-07:00

This is a busy week for me. I am finishing the books for Quincy's preschool. Yesterday I had the kids decorate their names and then I glued them to some nice scrapbook paper.
Tada! Covers are done. I think they turned out nice, and I love how the kids helped make them. (I am really enjoying making these books. It is nice to do something without a needle and thread. Mix it up a bit).

Silhouettes

2010-04-13T14:28:00.000-07:00

Quincy has preschool twice a week. Some other moms and I take turns teaching, using this online curriculum. Over the last few weeks the children have been working on making a book that is all about them. Some examples of what you would find inside the books are; a self portrait, a picture of their family, things they like, and a silhouette. (Hooray! I was in charge of the silhouettes. I love stuff like this). It was so simple. I just took a picture of their profile, printed it (using economical and fast), traced the profile, cut out traced profile, traced cut out on black paper, and cut black paper. I glued the silhouette on colored paper because I wanted the inside of their books to be colorful, and I love it! I think that I have found a new addiction. I also used the blog Inchmark as a resource. She recently did a bunch of entries on silhouettes. She recommended adding eyelashes, and it was also helpful to compare her silhouettes to mine.

How to Make Reusable Bowl Covers

2010-04-11T22:01:00.000-07:00

I have a wonderful sister-in-law (who is more like a sister). She is an amazing example: she loves to reuse items, upcycle, and has practically cleared her home of all paper products. I saw this project on Re-Nest and thought of her. (I might have to make these for gift.)

Headboard Roundup

2010-04-07T13:01:00.000-07:00

I'm in love with upholstered headboards, and these tutorials are inspiring me to try to make my own.
All Things Thrifty shows how to make this headboard. I love the patterns!

I love how this brings the upholstered and iron bed together. Learn how to make this bed on Design Sponge.

I really love this headboard from Design Sponge. The fabric is Mexican otomi fabric and I think that it couldn't be more lovely. Click here for the full tutorial (there is even a video).

If you want a headboard that is more simple in design, then go to Martha Stewart and learn how to make this tufted headboard.

Overnight Oatmeal

2010-04-06T16:12:00.001-07:00

I am not a morning person. I perfer to meet the day slowly, instead of in a mad rush. The other day I came across this recipe for a quick and healthy breakfast, and I knew that I had to try it.

It is called Overnight Oatmeal. You throw everything together the night before and in the morning all you have to do is serve it with some fruit. I am happy to say that I made this breakfast for Easter and the whole family ate it. The recipe can be found on the Whole Foods Market web site. I will also be trying Jamie Oliver's similar recipe for Pukkolla. I will tell you how it goes.

Dino Land in a Suitcase

2010-04-05T16:52:00.000-07:00

How fun is this suitcase turned dino land? I bet this would get any boys' imagination going. If you would like to make one of these, then check out the tutorial from the blog At Second Street.

Last Minute Easter Basket

2010-04-02T15:08:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone is enjoying their Good Friday, as we are reminded that Easter Day is just around the corner. For all of those who are running behind (I'm not judging), then you might like this tutorial from RevolzZza for a last minute Easter basket.

Big Bow Headband

2010-03-27T22:38:00.000-07:00

If you love making a statement with your accessories, then this is the tutorial for you. When making this headband I first, followed this tutorial and covered a plastic headband with gray grosgrain ribbon. After your plastic headband is covered, then its time to make your bow. Start by cutting out 8.5 by 4.5 (inches) piece of cotton fabric out. Then cut out a second piece of sheer fabric, making it slightly bigger then the cotton piece of fabric (this will make sewing easier). Lay the sheer fabric on top of the cotton fabric. Fold the short ends into the middle. Starting at the corners sew along the frayed sides, finishing close to the middle (In case this is confusing, just sew where the dotted lines are on the picture. By leaving a gap you will be able to turn it inside out). After you sew, then you will trim the sheer fabric to be the same as the cotton fabric.

A close up of the middle.

Turn inside out. Now the sheer fabric is on top.

Fold your fabric accordion style so it looks like a bow. Then quickly hand sew the middle together so everything stays put.

Now, cut out 2 by 5 (inches) pieces from both fabrics. Fold the fabrics in half (hot dog style) with the sheer fabric on top. Sew a line down the frayed end, making a tube.

A close up of the middle piece.

Take your little strip, putting the seam in the middle, and hand sew it to the bow in a way that hides the seam (It will be too long and you will need to be cut to fit properly). Now that the bow is complete, attach it to the head band. You can attach it by either sewing it or hot gun gluing it down (I sewed). When attaching my bow, I like it to lean down more on one side, and not be centered.

Little Girl's Teired Skirt

2010-03-26T23:31:00.000-07:00

Two blogs that I look at frequently are Made and Katie Did. Both of them sew without patterns, and have convinced me to give it a try.So, here is a simple two tiered skirt (made without a pattern). It's not rocket science, but it is a confidence builder to be able to work without a pattern.

I like to add extra detail to make it more unique and exciting. Instead of putting a regular hem on the bottom of this skirt I finished it off with bias tape.

Dump Cake

2010-03-25T15:55:00.000-07:00

I am going to a baby shower tonight, and I was asked to bring a dessert. I found this recipe on allrecipes.com.
Also, I have a tutorial coming soon that I am super excited about. Hopefully, I'll be able to post it tomorrow.

Rainbow Cake

2010-03-23T16:49:00.000-07:00

My freind was talking about throwing her daughter a rainbow birthday party. Maybe this cake from the blog Whisk kid will inspire her. I think this cake is nothing short of amazing, and the recipe sounds pretty delicious too. I can't imagine spending that much time in the kitchen before a birthday party. Unless I was throwing a party which included looking at cake, cutting cake, taking pictures of cake, and eating cake (oh, this is making me hungry).

Fabric Book Shelves

2010-03-21T18:03:00.000-07:00

I love this room that was featured on Ohdeedoh. I especially like the use of the hanging book shelves. If you would like to make these fabric book shelves, the tutorial is from the blog Penny Carnival. I think these fabric shelves would be perfect for bunk beds, where a night stand wouldn't be an option.

72 Hour Kit

2010-03-20T16:12:00.000-07:00

Do you have a 72 hour kit? Well, it has been on my mind lately. Thankfully, The blog Ohdeedoh posted some good information on this subject, so check it out and join me on being more prepared.

Duvet Cover DIY

2010-03-20T15:46:00.001-07:00

Make your own duvet cover with easy step by step instructions from Design Sponge.

Portable Doll House

2010-03-17T18:46:00.000-07:00

For Christmas I made the girls these portable doll houses from the blog UK Lass in the US. My sewing experience is limited, so at times it was a little tricky, but with some patience I think it turned out well.
It was a little difficult getting the girls to pose with the doll houses' but after some cropping, I think I got a good picture of Isabella.

Here is a inside look at where our peg people live when we are on the road.

Another close up of the house all bundle up. I wish my window wasn't as big as the door, but in real life it doesn't seem to bother me.

Viking Softies

2010-03-16T21:39:00.000-07:00

If I had a boy...
then I would definitely want one of these handmade vikings from the owner of the blog Herzensart. I love how all her softies have so much personalty. She also has a shop full of goodies, which is worth checking out.

Custom Stretch Pants

2010-03-15T14:02:00.000-07:00

I gave my older daughter Quincy the option of being today's model, but she turned me down in order to wear her own outfit (her new nickname is harajuku girl...I think it is fitting).

So, stepping up to the plate as today's model is little sis: Isabella. Her outfit may look ordinary, but the detail is in the back...
Oh, there is the cute detail. I love how it connects the shirt to the pants.
A closer look.
I got this idea from one of the sponsors of the blog Bloesem Kids. I can't remember which sponsor it was, but the cute pants stuck in my head, and I knew it was the perfect project to try freezer paper stenciling on. If you would like directions to freezer paper stenciling click here. I can tell you that it is easy, fun, and I will be doing it many times more.

Kid's Lunch Box Inspiration

2010-03-12T14:48:00.000-08:00

These lunch boxes over at the blog Berlin's Whimsy make me happy. They are healthy and fun. You should check out her Flickr account to see more.

Besides having great lunch box ideas, Berlin's Whimsy is full of great information. You for sure should check it out.

French Coloring Pages

2010-03-11T08:56:00.000-08:00

Just found a cute french blog called e-coloriage. I don't speak french, but I think that the blog features different artist by having them make a printable color page. So, if you have a budding artist then go print some of these cute coloring in pages (there is over 40).

***Just a quick hint...every color page has a number followed by a line. For example color page number thirty looks like this...30 J’arrose mon jardin que s’il en a besoin (this will be in the right hand column). If you would like to put the picture in printable form then underneath the picture you will see Télécharge le dessin à colorier, click on that then print. Also, the the pictures seem to be divided into categories, so if you want to look at different coloring pages then start clicking in the right hand column (some categories I clicked on were nature, pesticides, and plantes).

***Just another quick hint...ignore everything in my last note. Just click on google translate-it is amazing. Why was I not doing this before?

Curried Tomatoes and Eggplant

2010-03-10T15:54:00.000-08:00

This is my new favorite recipe. It is from my friend's private family blog, and she was sweet enough to let me share it on Q-Bella. The three reasons why I love this recipe are that it was easy, delicious, and I couldn't tell that I was eating eggplant . I made it last week, this week, and I will probably make it next week. (I can't believe my friend made up this recipe-different girl then me.) So, from my friend's blog....

Peel, cube, and salt an eggplant. The normal kind.
Squeeze out the moisture and saute in 2 Tb oil.
When it begins to brown add 1/2 of a chopped up onion
When those things are soft add a chopped up clove of garlic and a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger.
After a few minutes, add a teaspoon of tasty curry powder
Then add a quart of whole canned tomatoes- crushing each in your hands as you go (so satisfying to crush- you'll see.)
Then simmer until it's all saucy and tasty. And eat on top of rice with a little spoon of whole-fat yogurt.

(me again)

I hope you will make this and enjoy it as much as I did. Also, I totally think my friend should have a food blog---she is that good.

Sweet Initial Embroidery

2010-03-10T08:47:00.000-08:00

Okay, I realize that we just celebrated Valentine's Day and I also realize that we should only make lovey things during that holiday, but I saw these...Aren't they so cute? So, if you want to keep the love going all year then head over to the Doe-c-Doe blog and get the instructions.
I think this card is equally lovely.

Kid's Activity Roundup

2010-03-09T08:25:00.000-08:00

In order to help me get out of my boring parenting slump, I thought I would put together a kid's activity roundup. The first thing I am going to do, as the fun mom, is put together my own custom made scavenger hunt cards. I'm in love with the scavenger cards on the blog Saltwater Kids, so I am basically going to copy her. I was thinking that these would also be fun for road trips or long plane rides.
The next thing I'm going to do with my girls is make a shadow tracing painting. It will be inspired by these lovely shadow paintings from the blog Smaller.

Last, but not least on my list of fun activities to do with kids is this foot volleyball game. This idea comes from the Disney's blog Family Fun. If you ever feel like your in a rut with your kids, check out that blog because they always have a ton of ideas.

DIY Egg Cosies

2010-03-07T21:36:00.001-08:00

Celebrate Easter (like must holidays it will be here before we know it) by making these adorable egg cosies. Just go to Smaller to get the how to.

Japanese Masking Tape Roundup

2010-03-06T15:34:00.000-08:00

One of my friends just received a bunch of cute Japanese masking tape for her birthday. So, in honor of her awesome birthday present, I thought I would give her some inspiration.
She could decorate lids by following the directions over at Hearthandmade Blog.

If she was throwing a party (which I hope she does, because she always makes delicious food) she could go to project wedding and learn how to make this fun garland.

...or she could go to Mermag and get the how to on these sweet little invites.

Just like the blog Happy Tape she could decorate simple bags.

I love these magnetic clothes pins. I don't know why I would need a bunch of magnetic clothes pins, but I love them! So, hopefully my friend needs cute clothes pins and heads over to the blog Whisker Graphics, and puts that adorable masking tape to use.

..and if my friend needs more inspiration then she can go to IDIY, and see there four part roundup on Japanese masking tape projects.

Fabric Wall Decal

2010-03-05T23:35:00.000-08:00

Learn how to put fabric decals on your wall. It's easy, clean, and perfect for renters. When your done just peel it off. Just go to the blog Sewing for Scarlett to learn more.

Easter DIY Bunnies

2010-03-05T14:44:00.000-08:00

Learn how to make these sweet bunnies on an amazing German blog, Revoluzzza. These would be perfect in an Easter basket.

A day at the Park in Santa Monica

2010-03-05T12:55:00.000-08:00

I found these pics on a gossip web page...just me and Jennifer Garner hanging out at the park with our kids. It was pretty crazy. We had a ton of paparazzi surrounding us, well they were mostly surrounding her. Jennifer asked if I could stand next to her in order to make her look better. I said, "Jen, it would be my pleasure." (I think it was effective.)

Meet A favorite blog, and DIY Easter Project

2010-03-04T18:55:00.000-08:00

If you love this Easter egg diorama music box as much as I do then go over to one of my favorite blogs Matsutake, and get the surprisingly easy directions. While you're there please check out the rest of her blog. You will not be disappointed. She is so amazing. Everything she does is perfect and inspiring. If she lived in Southern California, I would track her down and make her craft with me. Here is the kitchen stove she made for her kids, and the best part is that it completely comes apart, and stores away.

If I had a boy then I would decorate it with robots, and she makes amazing robots.

Cute little racing robots.

A cute little deer pull toy. You can learn how to make a similar elephant and squirrel pull toy over at Martha Stewart (Oh yea, she has been on Martha...she is that good.)

Zippered throw pillows

2010-03-03T21:20:00.000-08:00

This has been a pretty crazy week. My little Bella has had a sick tummy, so every other day I have been going to the laundry mat. Hopefully, we won't have any more problems and we can get back to normal life. (Sorry dad. I'll call you tomorrow, and get myself to the post office.) Anyways, I thought I would let you all know about the tutorial design sponge has on how to make zippered throw pillows. I've learned a lot about sewing over the past couple years, and I am feeling ready for a new challenge...the zipper.

Make Your Own Children's Wall Art

2010-03-01T15:10:00.000-08:00

Don't you love these alphabet prints? They are a free gift from the blog Kind Over Matter. All you have to do is print and frame, and you've got some cute/instant wall art for your kid's room.
If you want to do something a little extra with your free alphabet print then you can follow these directions over at the blog Ollie and Lime, where they take a print and attach it to a canvas (by the way Ollie and Lime have some really sweet prints of there own). When we move out of the city and have more wall space, then I will definitely be doing this.

Silhouette Bedroom

2010-02-28T17:29:00.001-08:00

A while ago I saw this picture on the blog Inside the Black Apple. Isn't this wall of silhouettes awesome (Most of them were purchased on Ebay). Her whole house is amazing, and makes me totally jealous. Besides having a totally fantastic house, she is a talented artist. I would love to own anything from her etsy shop. Take my advice, check it out.

One of My Favorite Gifts

2010-02-26T14:14:00.000-08:00

Today, I thought that I would show you one of my favorite possessions. I received it as a gift from a friend when I lived in Korea.

It might look like a simple book (except for the letters you don't recognize), but don't judge a book by it's cover (couldn't resist the cliche).
Inside this simple Korean book of poems are pictures that my friend drew.

The pictures aren't difficult, but so sweet. I have to admit that I have copied many of these simple drawings on the inside of cards that I have given out.

Don't you love it?
Doesn't get much easier then this.

Wouldn't this be sweet on a little love note.

Hopefully, these picture inspire you as much as they inspire me.

Crepe Paper Garland

2010-02-22T20:49:00.000-08:00

Check out how to make this cute crepe paper garland on Life in the Fun Lane. While you're there, you can also be inspired by the furniture she buys cheap and fixes up. Looking at the amazing transformation really makes me want a yard, and get painting.

Things I like

2010-02-20T12:55:00.001-08:00

So cute. I know for sure that I will be making these for my girls. You can find the tutorial on the blog Calico. P.S. They are pretty easy to make.

I have two oval mirrors, and they bore me. I have been trying to figure out how to spice them up. This mirror is definitely inspiring me. It reminds my of Anthropology decor, which I love! Go to Bee Wise Bags and get the how to.

I love this wreath! It is made from simple objects, and it totally reminds of Spring, which makes me happy. To learn how to make it then just head over to Mary Janes and Galoshes.

Are you expecting a baby, then make this Mei Tai. It is a traditional Asian baby carrier. I already have a baby carrier, but if I was going to have another baby, then I would be tempted to make me one of these (a girl has to have options, right?). Click here for the tutorial.

Five Years with My Man

2010-02-18T12:37:00.000-08:00

Happy five year anniversary! I can't believe it...I married this man five years ago! We have lived in seven homes, have had two kids, and because of all that I think I have aged tremendously. He is not the best husband because he is totally awesome at surfing, snow boarding, long boarding, yoga, has a six pack, and is totally hot (all true), but he is the best husband because he truly loves me, loves to be around me, encourages me to develop talents, thinks I am the cutest thing ever (even though I am sure I am not), pushes the girls all over town in their stroller while he long boards (I think he is the only husband in the world to do that), and he really tries to be the best man that he can be for our family. I love him, and couldn't be happier that we have been married for five years. Happy anniversary to my yobo.

F&A, your Louie

Remember that Speacial Beach with Framed Sand Paper

2010-02-16T20:19:00.000-08:00

How many of us have a special memory that involves a beautiful beach. Maybe you took your honeymoon, a special anniversary, birthday, or family reunion at an amazing location. When you packed your bags and got ready to come home did you grab a little bag of sand? Well, I know I have, so if your anything like me then go grab that bag of sand out of the drawer and display it on the wall by making your own framed sand paper.

This project is easy and you only need a couple of supplies...so basically it is the perfect project.

All you need is sand, a piece of card stock (size to be framed), cardboard, and a spray adhesive (I used 3M super 77).

Place the card stock on top of the cardboard, then lightly, and evenly spray on the adhesive. Now sprinkle the sand (before you use the sand make sure that there is no bits a debris...you want pure sand.) on top of the sprayed card stock.

Gently pick up the card stock and remove extra sand, and let dry, and then you will have your very own custom made sand paper to frame.

Here is a close up of the paper just, because I think it looks cool.

When the paper is all dry then it is ready to be framed. I framed my sand paper in a thick frame from Crate and Barrel. It was just thick enough to put the star fish inside. I think a shell would be equally stylish. Have fun and enjoy!

P.S. If any one can come up with a better title then let me know. I don't know how to describe this project with out using sand paper, but I feel it could be confusing. So, sorry for the confusing title, but I love this project, and wanted to share.

I am Going Flower Crazy!

2010-02-14T12:27:00.000-08:00

I think that I am going flower crazy! I am loving it! I am getting ready to stick flowers on everything. I love these T.J. Max purses that Laura Gunn decorated. I also saw a cute lampshade decorated similar to these purses (Check out the lamp shade on One pretty Thing).

Undercover Crates

2010-02-14T11:48:00.000-08:00

A long time ago, before I got into blogging, I stumbled upon this tutorial. Do you love it as much as I do? They are covered plastic bins. Now you can stylishly organize your craft supplies, or kids toys. This is perfect for me, because I live in tight quarters and I like the idea of being able to build up.

Valentine's Chair Bag

2010-02-12T16:09:00.000-08:00

Learn to make one of these Pottery Barn inspired Valentine's chair bag here. I think I'll be making one next year...I'm running out of time.

Make a Faux Buck

2010-02-10T09:22:00.001-08:00

This faux buck is so fun. Wouldn't you love to have one in your home? Well, with just a few supplies you can. Just go to Chronicle Books and get the template and instructions.

Black Bean Brownies

2010-02-09T10:39:00.000-08:00

Can you believe that these brownies have black beans in them? My Aunt told me about them (I have a great Aunt who is crafty and is amazing at cooking yummy healthy things. I am hoping that she will start a blog soon). She whipped some up and said they were delicious. She substituted carob for chocolate. This recipe that I found has some sugar, but I was thinking that you could substitute that for my favorite natural sweetener Agave. I am going to have to try this, especially since I can't get enough chocolate lately.

By the way I also found some recipes for cake and cookies with chickpeas. It has never been more delicious to be healthy!

Market Skirt from MADE

2010-02-07T16:04:00.000-08:00

Don't you love this skirt that I made for Isabella? The pattern/tutorial is from the blog MADE. It is one of the first things that I have made that the girls can wear, and I love it! All the tutorials on MADE are easy to understand, and there are a ton of pictures (Great for a beginner like me).

P.S. You really can't beat the weather here in Southern California. We took these picture as we walked to church today. You can almost feel the sun shining through the picture. If I didn't have a calendar I wouldn't believe that we are still in Winter.

DIY Statement Sign

2010-02-05T23:07:00.000-08:00

I want this room! First of all check out the yo-yos on the dresser...brilliant. Then do you see that amazing sign? I have wanted something like this forever. Apartment Therapy shares the tutorial for making this sign and I couldn't believe how easy and surprisingly inexpensive it was to make. I will for sure be making one of these in the future, but first I have to figure out what I would want my sign to say...

Flower Roundup #2

2010-02-05T22:32:00.000-08:00

I know that I just did a flower roundup, but then I saw these two amazing examples of fabric flowers, and I knew that I had to add them.
I love these flowers. I love them because they are easy, and because they are used from old t-shirts. With two little girls in my house I happen to have a ton of cute colored t-shirts that can no longer be used (finally I can celebrate stains). So go to one of my favorite blogs Matsutake, and see how she makes these perfect flowers.

There are a lot of great wedding blogs out there, and they have some amazing tutorials that can be used for any celebration. If you love this miniature flower garland as much as I do then go to Once Wed and check out their tutorial.

Flower Tutorial Roundup

2010-02-01T10:18:00.000-08:00

It seems like there are as many fabric flower tutorials as there are blogs. As cute as some were they just didn't seem like my style, so here are the flower tutorials that I know I will be using in future projects. I love this jersey knit fabric applique. It is made from used shirts (which I seem to have a ton that either have a hole or stain. Thanks kids!) I think this could look cute on new t-shirts, zip ups, or on a quilt. If you love this applique as much as I do then go to the blog Sew Take a Hike, and make your own.

These flowers were used to decorate a table for a wedding and the tutorial was shared on 100 Layer Cake. Although this tutorial was shared on a wedding blog I think the possibilities are endless. They would look sweet in someones hair, as a pin, part of a necklace or bracelet, and I even think it would look sweet in a simple wreath. They are a little more time consuming then the other flowers, but I don't mind time consuming as long as its easy (these are). Just rent the movie North and South (I just watch the BBC version and I loved it), and start sewing.

I also love these frayed rosettes. It actually took me a long time to find a tutorial like this one.
I knew that I wanted to learn how to make these, but couldn't find any examples that I liked. Finally I stumbled unto the blog Sis Boom, and I couldn't be happier. I love them, and think they would be adorable as a brooch with multiple flowers, or on a little girls headband.

Last but not least are these amazing over sized poppies. Hooray for these! I am constantly dressing in solid colors, and I need to start accessorising. I used to accessorize all the time and then I had babies who couldn't leave my stylish extras alone. Now that my girls are older I think I need to bring back the accessories, and I can't think of anything better than these poppies. If you need to start accessorising as much as I do then go to Grossgrain, and check out there easy tutorial.

Vintage Handkerchiefs Made Into Little Girl Headbands

2010-01-25T13:32:00.000-08:00

When I was in high school I went to a garage sale and bought a bunch of vintage handkerchiefs. I love handkerchiefs, because they are just so sweet and delicate, and now I can finally show them off with these little girl headbands. (These are especially good if you have a pretty handkerchief but it has a hole, or stain, because you only need half.) You too can make one of these adorable headbands all you need is...
-handkerchief
-1/2 inch wide elastic
-1 inch wide ribbon
-thread

First cut your handkerchief at a diagonal in half. Then zig zag stitch the edge to keep it from fraying. Now hold the handkerchief over the little girls head that will be wearing this headband and gage how much elastic you need in order to bring the sides together and create the shape of a headband. Keep in mind that the elastic and the handkerchief will be overlapping by an inch and a half on both sides. (My elastic was 5 inches long.) Also, it is good to know that the elastic should be a little tight, because the elastic is what holds it on, the ribbon is really just decoration.

Then zig zag stitch the elastic onto the handkerchief (overlapping an inch and a half over the handkerchief.) **Make sure you sew the elastic close to the edge but not on the edge of the handkerchief, because you will be sewing the ribbon on both sides of the elastic and there needs to be space.

Now, fold the handkerchief in half, and do the same thing to the other side.

Now its time to add your ribbon. (My ribbon was 39 inches) I cut my ribbon at an edge and then I quickly held it to a flame, this will keep the end from fraying. (Of course be careful when doing this. I know that not all ribbons will singe the same, and I don't want to be responsible for a fire.) After your ribbon is all cut and ready, sew it on to the handkerchief. I sewed the edge side first. As you can see in this picture I sewed right along the side of the elastic, not on the elastic.
Flip the handkerchief over and sew the inner side of the ribbon down. (Sew along the side of the elastic like before.)

Hooray you are done, and now all you have to do is find a cute girl to put this on!

Rain Rain Go Away

2010-01-22T16:07:00.000-08:00

Well, it is raining in southern California. We have had five days of consecutive rain, and every time we leave the house it is a down pour. The girls have been loving it, as for me it is getting a little old (I know, a girl from Portland is complaining about five days of rain).

Today we celebrated the rain by having a photo shoot. Of course I couldn't coax Quincy out of her favorite outfit. It was a struggle just to get her to wear the sweater. I had to tell her that if she didn't put the sweater on then Isabella was going to hold my cute pink hello kitty umbrella. Oh, the things us parents have to say. Good thing Isabella didn't care what umbrella she held.

Another Amazing Blog: Rose Hip

2010-01-19T14:31:00.000-08:00

Just thought I would try to inspire everyone to pick up some crochet hooks. I know after looking at the blog Rosehip, and seeing all her beautiful creations that I feel like crocheting. I love how she mixes vintage with modern. Her use of fabrics, and colors amaze me. I truly envy people who mix patterns and fabric so well. (Sometimes I feel like I feel like I get a little to matchy match.) My girls are getting ready to move to big girl beds and I would love for their beds to be as well dressed as the beds on this amazing blog. Also, if you are good at crocheting she has a tutorial on how to make that amazing flower pillow, and if you are a beginner like myself then you can start slowly and learn how to make some adorable crochet flowers.

I also love her modern take on pillow cases with crochet trim. I never thought that I wanted a pillow case with crochet trim, but I never seen one with such vibrant colors. If you like these pillow cases as much as I do then go check out her etsy sight.

I Heart Miniatures

2010-01-18T16:07:00.000-08:00

I have already decided that I am going to remodel the girls doll house. The colors don't reflect the rest of the room, and I just want something a little different. I ran across these doll house/miniatures on ebay. The woman is suppose to be Jane Erye, and the gentleman is Mr.Darcy. I love it! Two of my favorite books represented in these tiny Victorian frames. It is taking everything I have not to bid. I never realized how amazing miniatures can be. I feel like I have discovered a whole other world. A tiny world, and despite its size it has fantastic detail.

Mer Mag Blog

2010-01-17T09:27:00.000-08:00

I really enjoy the blog Mer Mag. It is really amazing how artistic some people are. I love how she takes simple everyday objects, and make them special. If you are need of some visual inspiration then go check her out. She also has some great tutorials.
I love this. Thrift plate + ceramic paint = fantastic! I especially love how anyone can make this. It is about being creative not necessarily an artistic.

Another great idea. Just use a fabric marker to specialize your linens.

When you get done with her blog then just head over to her etsy store. I love this poster. It reminds me of all those "Keep Calm and Carry On" WWll posters that are so popular, but I like this one more. It is from a favorite church song, and I would love to have it in my home.

A New Year Tradition

2010-01-14T15:34:00.000-08:00

Family Fun posted a great article on family traditions to start this year. There were many great ideas. One idea that I thought would be fun to try, was to put out a jar and then fill the it up with different things that we experience in 2010. On New Years Eve our family is going to open the jar and reminisce about all the things that were said, accomplished, and survived. With a two and three year old in the house I am sure there will be plenty of laughing. God bless and may we all have a wonderful year to remember.

Lola Hair Pin

2010-01-14T13:02:00.000-08:00

I am a huge Charlie and Lola fan. It is my favorite and my best cartoon ever! I love that it deals with real kid issues, like losing teeth, or wanting to keep the present that you bought for your friends birthday party. I also love that Lola, unlike other cartoon characters, is always wearing different clothes, and is completely stylish. When I saw this tutorial on how to make Lola clips on Mother Rising I knew that I would be making these for my little girls soon.

A Fun Group Game: Big Booty

2010-01-11T22:07:00.000-08:00

I live in the city, and one of my neighbors (across the Street) is a Catholic High School (Well, its a school on one side and a very famous Catholic church on the other side. I even saw Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger coming out of church when I was taking my children to the park one day. He was just a couple of feet from where I stood. This was espeacially exciting for our family, because he was my husband's idol growing up. Cute, huh? To bad my husband was out of town. Just thought I'd share). Well, one day I was walking by and I heard the kids yelling "big booty, big booty, big booty, big booty!" Well, this chanting brought me back to about ten years ago. Big booty was a favorite game at my best friend Mandie's house. Mandie has seven brothers and sisters, and there was always a crowd, and we were always playing games. If you are a big gamer like myself then you should click here and learn how to play, because it is a blast. I know I'll be playing soon.

P.S. You can also go to you tube, and watch clips of people playing Big Booty.

P.S.S. And because I think that every post deserves a picture, here is one of my cute Isabella trying to sit on her booty.

yule logs and glitter bells

2010-01-11T14:29:00.000-08:00

Today I will be starting a new topic called garbage not garbage. Ever since I have gotten into blogging I have marveled at what people have made from everyday items. These yule logs and glitter bells are a favorite example of transforming the ordinary into extraordinary. Find out how crafter extraordinaire Lori Marie turned toilet paper rolls, and egg carton cups into these adorable gift containers on her blog pretty little things.

festive felt garland

2010-01-10T15:55:00.000-08:00

I found these instructions on how to make this festive garland on Anna Maria Horner's blog. I love the colors she chose for this project. I can easily imagine this hanging in our house during Christmas, or for someones birthday, and when you have a daughter whose birthday is in the middle of December this is a good thing.

Why my Christmas presents were late this year: peg people

2010-01-09T08:38:00.000-08:00

Well, here it is my girl's doll house. I got it last year on Craig's list for about $30. I really like it because it came with all the great wood furniture, and you can dismantle the doll house and store it. The problem with the doll house is....

that these were the occupants. They were nice enough kids, but the neighbors were always complaining about all the noise they would make running, skipping, and or course sliding of furniture. It was clear something had to be done. I searched the web and found this shop on ebay called goosegrease. They will even customize your family.

Aren't they so talented. I would have loved to have splurged on these. So inspiring.

And if I was getting married again I would for sure want a set of their customized wedding toppers. Luckily after falling in love with their painted peg people I found out that you could buy unpainted peg families from the same people.

I obviously styled my after goosegrease.

And thanks to their inspiration I think my two families turned out pretty good. Especially considering that I am not an artist.

The girls room

2010-01-08T14:20:00.000-08:00

I thought we would take a tour of the girls room. This photo shoot proved to be difficult. I woke up this morning and got to work I needed to take advantage of the light and get in before the girls had to go down for there naps. The problem was that every time I put something away the girls would want it, but we got it done. (I love that dresser. It was an old one from my husband's Mom. It has a mirror that attaches to it, but the last two moves have scratch my poor little dresser, and I need to do some touch ups. I guess that's the advantage of painting your furniture...I own the paint).

I also love for kids to have tons of books. When we lived in Sacramento we had a Goodwill by our house, and they had a great selection. Most of the books I own are from there. It wasn't until I went to another Goodwill out of the area that I learned that not all Goodwill's prices are the same. Oh I do miss the .50 to a $1 days.

I especially love old books. Those I keep up high. It is like a bit of history. Also, I got that carousel from my Dad one Christmas. It seemed special, because I knew he picked it out all on his own, and now all these years later it is in my girls room. So Dads...don't just rely on your wives to do all the gift shopping, because it means so much more when you get involved (This is really for my husband, because I am sure he will be the only dad reading my blog, or the only person).

What a model! Quincy is really getting into posing for pictures lately. Obviously she has a lot to teach me.

And behind our little model are these prints I found at Target 2 years ago, and I loved them. My whole color scheme are in these prints, and they feel young to me. Oh yea, and did I say that these prints were actually Valentine place mats. For only $6 I had three big prints, and they even sparkle. I love it!

I love them so much I went back to Target and found these last Valentines. This time I cut up the translucent place mats and put different shades of card stock behind them.

Okay, photo shoot is over let's play!

I have little skirts on my mind

2010-01-07T14:26:00.000-08:00

Well, as the rest of the country suffers winter's wrath I am enjoying my first winter in sunny So-Cal. In fact it has been so sunny that my thougts are already turning to summer clothes for the girls, and I have skirts on the mind. I found this amazig skirt tutorial from The Polka Dot Chair, and belive me when I say that I will be making this....twice.

Grandparents gift: embroider childrens hand prints on tea towels

2010-01-06T12:26:00.000-08:00

I thought I would share one of the gifts that I gave the grandparents this year. I had seen on different blogs where people had posted hand prints that they had stitched and framed (one pretty thing had an example of this). I liked this idea but both of my parents have plenty of things on there walls and didn't need any more. Then I came up with the idea of using a plain tea towel. Well, like usual I was running out of time, and ended up getting these old fashioned flour towels at Jo-Annes. This was so easy. Just trace your kids hands on cardstock, cut out template, trace template on fabric with sewing pen, and backstitch. I also blanket stitched around the edge.To me it is the perfect gift, because it is functional, easy, sentimental, and cheap!
P.S. Who knew my kid's first initials made IQ.

A New Year

2010-01-06T10:08:00.001-08:00

It's a New Year, and I am starting my 2010 with my new blog. It will be full of all the things I love my girls, husband, crafts, things I want to buy, and things I want to do. I hope you enjoy and are patient as I learn.

By the way, this is what my girls were doing when I started my blog. I love that Quincy looks like she is really reading as she points to the words. Oh well, I guess it doesn't matter because she tells a good story all on her own.

q-bella

2009-01-04T23:05:00.000-08:00

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