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11/08/2009

Big Boy Tasks

Ever since Oliver started pre-school, his desire to really learn to read has increased significantly. He's been reading some simple 3 and 4 letter words for quite a while, but didn't get much past that. Well, something just clicked with him, and he's off. It's so much fun to watch him...everywhere we go, he points out words and reads...even grafitti...yay!

We were heading to my in-laws this weekend to celebrate Peter's (yesterday) and Steven's (today) birthdays. I asked Oliver if he'd like to pack his own bag and his eyes widened with excitement. I made him a list of items, told him to place the items on my bed and then make a check mark next to that item on the list.




The shirt and pants he chose were not "church appropriate", but I didn't say a word, he was too proud of himself. Instead I just explained that what he packed would be for play, and that I forgot to put church clothes on the list and would pack them for him.

Funny thing is, he's probably been capable of doing this kind of thing for a long time, but because I don't think anyone else packs the "right" way, I do it for them. It's only recently that I've let the 12 year-olds pack for themselves. It's just annoying to get somewhere and find that you have to wash their underwear in the sink every night because they've forgotten to pack any...not that they care. Jeesh!

11/03/2009

Amazing Story!

American Papist: Not Your Average Catholic!: National News: TX Planned Parenthood director resigns after witnessing ultrasound, story drawing national attention ( video & inside details)

10/21/2009

I Want a Pair Too!

Oh I poured over sketches, and cut out bits and pieces of paper in an attempt to make elf shoes to go with Linus' halloween costume, but just couldn't get it right. Who to turn to? Google, of course, and in doing so found this pattern at about.com. The directions were vague, and a little wonky to say the least, so I just used the pattern pieces and made my own adjustments. I didn't have any felt in the right color, so in an effort to be frugal used what I had; some scraps of green flannel, recycled denim for the bottom, and the last bit of brown striped ribbon that matches the ribbon on his elf hat.
I love them! They're far from perfect, but a couple more pairs, and I'll have the process down to a science. I think they'll be making an appearance on Etsy. One may think "aside from Halloween, what would the need be for elf shoes", but I've seen some pretty strange things flying off the "shelves" on Etsy...anytime of year.




Here is a picture of his hat which I don't think he'll keep on...we've been practicing, and have only made it about 20 seconds so far.

10/20/2009

I Love Autumn!!!

Autumn seems to be the shortest season. It is often flanked by lingering hot summer weather and premature snowfall giving the impression that it came and went in 2 or 3 weeks. The younger kids seem to really be into the Halloween part of things and are awaiting the many parties this weekend and trick or treating the following weekend with eager anticipation.

Last weekend we carved pumpkins and indulged in the seasonal apple sugar donuts and fresh apple cider...mmmm. The pumpkins look wonderful, but don't look at me...I just took pictures and cleaned up...Steven and the kids did all the work. On Sunday the weather was beautiful, and I was itching for a long walk. I headed over to Henry Ford Estate with Noah, Oliver, and Linus...camera in hand, and had a great time. Thanks to the late afternoon sun, I got some really lovely pictures.












10/05/2009

Etsy Feature ~ Secret Lentil


Lentils, in any form be it red, green, mini, or secret are my favorite legume. Secret? Oh I could go on trying to be clever, but I'd rather get to the business of talking about Helen, aka Secret Lentil, and all of the perfectly yummy garments she creates that somehow would be more appropriately named after desserts if you ask me. But since nobody is asking, and she comes up with her own very clever names....
Let's just start with the fact that she deconstructs and reconstructs, calling her creatiions "protective gear for your internal revolution". I'm all over it!!!

She doesn't so much sew as she sculpts with fabric. She even uses the word at times when describing the shape of some of her garments, and rightly so. Her ecclectic style includes lots of what she calls "pod pockets" (love 'em), outside serged edges in colorful threads, asymmetrical lines and mix of colors that is rivaled only by a bowl of all my favorite ice creams put together.

Helen works out of her warehouse studio in Syracuse, NY, plays bass guitar, and has a self-proclaimed loud and strange laugh. She just added a dressing room and welcomes visitors who will get first dibs on whatever she has in stock. As I'm in MI, I don't think I'll be visiting soon, but when I do I'll bring her a cake and some coffee, and we'll sew and eat cake and drink coffee all day long...and then I woke up, cuz my kids would wipe their jelly and pizza crusted hands all over everything!

Here are some of my favorites. Let me just say, narrowing it down was no small task.


1. Know Your Carmen Miranda Rights, 2. air-conditioned hepburn, 3. Homage to Dr. Zoidberg, 4. the grass is greener (reconstructed sweater), 5. langoustina, 6. earthenware reconstructed shirt, 7. morning glory dress, 8. Daphne Is No Shrinking Violet

No go and show lentil love. Visit her Etsy store here, her website here, her blog here, her flickr photos here, her Facebook Page here, and if I'm missing anything...shame on me.

9/30/2009

Oliver Starts School

Oliver started pre-school a few weeks ago, and shame on me for waiting 3 weeks to post about such a momentous occasion. We decided on CHUP (Cherry Hill Presbyterian Co-op Preschool). My niece attended 2 years ago and had a wonderful experience AND because it's a co-op it's extremely affordable. With the co-op experience also comes LOTS of parental involvement...that's why it's affordable. So there are days when I have to "work" in one of the rooms, make play-doh, bring snacks etc.. I have also been assigned the task of webmaster for the year.

Here he is on his first day.




I was there with him for the first 2 days as all the moms stay for day 1, and day 2 was my first day as class mom. After his first day alone, I asked how he did and if he was at all nervous to which he answered..."not at all, I was so happy. I was so happy inside it was like there were showers of happiness raining down in my insides, just raining, raining. Well, I guess that says it all.

Our first field trip (there is one every month) was this past Monday. Let me just say that prior to that day, every day, even if chilly in the morning, has warmed up to over 70...I dressed us both accordingly.
I spent 2 hours at the apple orchard getting the "looks" from other moms, dressed for the Iditerod mind you, because my kid is in shorts. Who the heck knew that we'd go from summer to winter overnight? In my defense, he was wearing boots as I knew it would be muddy. Aside ~ the other moms are actually very nice, and just felt bad...that I DIDN'T WATCH THE WEATHER REPORT!
It was worth the frostbite just for the donuts, and we'll be making apple pie later in the week!



And I have to mention that he's becoming quite the arteest. Here is a picture he painted of Steven holding a snake. Why? Because Steven has this thing (obsession...gasp...did I say that?) about looking for snakes every time we go walking or hiking somewhere. The other painting I believe they did with marbles. Lovely, aren't they?


9/29/2009

A GaGa Bum Giveaway on TicTacDough



Visit TicTacDough's blog for a chance to win the Irish Linen tunic.

9/28/2009

I Can't Resist...Yep, Another Great Giveaway

I feel that I've been neglectful of personal and creative posts because I keep finding these great giveaways. This one is posted on Piece of Me, for a Kumquat outfit.

If I win, I'll choose this for Linus.


9/22/2009

Another Great Givewaway

Visit Piece of Me for a chance to enter this fabulous giveaway! Kiwi Industries has lots to offer, and if I win, I think I'll have to have the little organic tee with the blue and red fishies. How about you?

Lisa Leonard Designs Jewelry GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

Lisa Leonard Designs Jewelry GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

I am particularly excited about this giveaway found on Grosgrain! I have been in search of something simple to wear on my wedding ring finger. To make a long story short, my wedding band which fits around my engagement ring, lost a baguette on each side causing the ring to cut into my fingers on either side. Since money is tight, it's the last thing on my list of things to spend money on, but I'm not comfortable having a "naked" finger either.

Steven and I went on a date a couple of months ago, and I actually felt self-conscious. It was the middle of the day, we were at the museum, and at a restaurant, he's wearing a ring...I'm not, we were holding hands and kissing. Torrid affair was written all over it! OK, so I have an overactive imagination, but I still want to wear something on my finger, and this simple band would be lovely.

9/21/2009

New Design ~ A Holiday Party Dress

I was busy, busy, busy this weekend. I've had this design in my head for a while and did no more than put pen to paper. Until Steven, while I was away visiting my mother, happen to be at a rummage sale and snatched up 2 bolts of silk for $3.

It's your basic baby-doll style, but instead of the usual zipper or buttons on the back, I've made 4 button-holes through which is laced a beautiful organza ribbon that ties on the top. The bodice is black organic cotton, and the skirt is 100% silk available in the burgundy, as shown, or orange (picture of fabric below). I'll be adding it to the store soon...I have some reorganizing to do first, and it will be available in sizes 12mo, 18mo, 24mo./2T, 3T, 4T, 5T, and 6T.










9/19/2009

A Super Crafty Giveaway

I seem to be a wee bit obsessed with giveaway's lately, but trying to strike a balance between entering and sponsoring a couple of my own. Yesterday I stumbled across this fabulous site which will definately go on my list of places to visit regularly. Frugal Mom, in conjunction with Discount School Supply is having a giveaway for a $50 gift certificate...oh what I could do with that!

UPDATE...I got it wrong. They are giving away a paint set worth $50....sorry for the confusion.

9/16/2009

Mmm...Rasberry Jam

My friend Anita cans everything. She's got shelves in the basement stocked with ball jars full of homemade yummy goodness...from 3 bean salad, to tomato sauce, with lots in between. She was kind enough to invite us all over on Sunday after church to teach me how to make rasberry jam. Steven and Brian kept a watch over the kids (8 between us) while Anita and I were elbow deep in rasberries.

We started with this...a full flat of fresh rasberries



cooked them down to this



then put it all through a sieve to remove the seeds...this was the hard part...and ended up with this



The final result....mmm...and enough for both of our families to last through winter.



CocoaDreams Aprons Gift Card GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

I can't resist another great giveaway! I wish my aprons were as lovely as these.

CocoaDreams Aprons Gift Card GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

Etsy Feature ~ The3Maries

Triple Maries, double the fun...she has 2 Etsy stores! Vintage Treasures from The3Maries has a delightful collection of vintage books, sewing patterns, and other household do-dads. My favorites are this vintage copy of Lassie


and as if that's not enough of a blast from the past, check this out! I have never seen and H.R. Pufnstuf book. As an aside...my 4 year old can sing the song...we've watched it on You Tube.


Here's where the "double" comes in...she has another store too. Created by The3Maries
This store features handmade arts and crafts where she does...and I can't believe I'm saying this..."custom work on sawblades". Yep, she paints lovely pictures on sawblades. I know...I couldn't believe it either, but what the heck!

Here's one of an autumnal nature...



Jennifer together with daughter Mallory, and mother Marie scavenge the flea markets and thrift stores on a regular basis searching for vintage goodies. It sounds heavenly to me, as my flea market and thrift store experiences are always with 2 unruly little boys! She's married to her high school sweetheart, together now for 17years.

When asked to name 3 of her favorite Etsy stores and why, this is what Jennifer had to say:
1) Freckles and Friends - Her creations are adorable. Each little critter is created with love. Cindi is one of the nicest people you will meet!

2)Aunt Sue's Old New Lovely - This lady has an awesome vintage shop! She knows her stuff! Also a very genuine and helpful person.

3)Dutch Touch Beads - Her jewelry is so beautiful!

It's hard to pick just three!

Jennifer is offering a 20% discount if you mention this blog post at checkout. Just say "GaGa Bum".

9/11/2009

Simple Shoes


Simple Shoes
Originally uploaded by sunshine0216



Simple Shoes
Originally uploaded by sunshine0216



I've been drooling over the shoes on this website since being introduced by my friend Harmony. Everything about their products is eco-friendly, and the bottoms of their sneakers are made from recycled car tires. The kids thought that was the coolest part.
Their prices are fair, but still out of reach for us given our current circumstances, however, they have the most awesome sales. Since Noah is a football fan, he chose these which just arrived yesterday. Shipping was free...yes, free, bringing the total cost to under $10!!!
Peter wants these ones, which are a favorite of mine as well. At full price...it will have to wait. Oh how I hope they go on sale soon!

9/10/2009

Etsy Feature ~ Boutique Stitches

Can you say cool? Jennette from Boutique Stitches is bringing some Punk and Rockabilly to baby's wardrobe. The mother of three, she and her husband own a tattoo shop where she also has her tattoo-themed mom and baby items for sale.
I think this is my favorite...

She's running a promo right now. Anyone who signs up for her newsletter will receive a 5 dollar gift certificate to Boutique Stitches,
20 % OFF all items. Use coupon code BABY at checkout.
Be sure to visit her website, and her blog

I asked Jennett who her favorite Etsy sellers are, and here's what she had to say:

Lucky Kaeru Fabric and Supplies
I love this sellers fabrics!!!!

PunkyMonkeyKids
Have to check out this sellers baby onsies,wow they are amazing!

baby momo
Love these baby items,what great fabrics!

9/08/2009

I'm Obsessed with Grosgrain's Giveaways!

Cna this backpack be any cuter? I love this fabric...I think it's Kokka, but will have to check. How perfect would my little Oliver look carrying this to his first day of preschool? AND there are 2 chances to win. Either the backpack, or the pattern.

Check it out!!

Made by Rae Jackpack Backpack GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

7th Grade...Here We Come

Ok, so the photo is staged. Noah and Peter go to different schools, and Peter would be at his mom's in the morning making him unavailable for photos...so they humored me, and had some fun.
I'm not sure yet how Peter did on his first day, but Noah game home with glowing reviews and shining with optimism about 7th grade. He's made a new friend, Tyler, who I think is in all but one of his classes, and got all the teachers he was hoping to.

6th grade was a difficult transition for both of them for different reasons, so we're all praying that this school year brings less angst, and more joy...for them, and us!

Now where's that glass of wine?

9/06/2009

Another Oliver Story (about...you know what)


So I have a funny story, but have to give a little not-so-funny background information to set the stage.
Some of you know us well enough to know (and those that don't can turn around here, and go back from whence you came if you're grossed out by kids with poop issues)that Oliver is a little anal retentive...really...does not like to go and will avoid it at all cost. Well, I was visiting my mother a few weeks ago, and late one evening wound up in the ER with Oliver who had be writhing in pain saying that his left "hip" hurt (it was really his left lower quadrant). Knowing his...ahem...poopy issues, I was sure that was not the issue as he had gone earlier that day, and the day before. So I was pretty worried having no idea as to what could be causing my little one so much pain.
Here we are...my mother, Linus, me and Oliver walking into the ER at 11:30 at night. By the way...shout out to St. Anthony's Medical Center for getting us in and out so quickly. After an x-ray...sure enough...his poor belly was chuck-full of poo. Got a quick drink of sodium bicarbonate and off we went. The whole episode turned Oliver's life around, and I'm happy to say, he goes every morning after breakfast like a little trooper. Heee, hee...I could go off here, but I'll refrain.
Fast forward to Friday. We stopped at McDonald's on the way to my in-laws. Mostly because I had to make a pitstop, but with a car full of boys yelling, "yeah McDonald's...can we get shakes...I want a toy...fy, fy"...that last bit was Linus asking for "fries"...well what are we to do. I was peacefully eating my own fries when suddenly Oliver leaps out of the play structure and yells across the restaurant, "Mom, I didn't do my morning poop. It started, but hasn't hit my underwear yet!" So after turning a whole new shade of red (I'll have to call Crayola), we took care of business, and while washing his hands (in a full restroom) says "I can't believe I forgot about my morning poop...how silly of me".
Yes, silly indeed...this is my life!

9/03/2009

Kookles Nursing Cover GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

Kookles Nursing Cover GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

9/01/2009

Sew Cute Shop Amy Butler Birdie Sling GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

Sew Cute Shop Amy Butler Birdie Sling GUEST GIVEAWAY!!!!

8/31/2009

Giveaway Extravaganza!

Woohoo...I'm going to be featured on 2 blogs, and there will be a giveaway!!
First one will be tomorrow on Grosgrain. This will be the item from my shop...so if you're got a little one, or in need of a baby shower gift...enter to win.
She's got some other fabulous giveaways going on too. I am particularly fond of this little number. Cute huh? Go to her blog and enter to win.



The other feature and giveaway will be on October 16th at TicTacDough
She'll be offering the Irish Linen Top/Dress.
I've had this one for a while, and will be so happy that someone will finally be wearing it.

Be sure to visit these wonderful blogs and browse, browse, browse!!!

8/26/2009

Recap of Summer Events

Had I posted once a week or so, I wouldn't feel overwhelmed at the prospect of cramming most of the summer into one post. That's me...the picture next to the definition of "procrastinator" in the dictionary. In my defense, I did start a post last month covering part of the summer...thought I saved a draft, but NO. Surely I was distracted by some little imp needing a diaper change, a drink of something, a snack, or the oh so distinctive sound of the kitchen garbage can being overturned. That being said...here goes...and it's going to be quick...more pictures, less words.

Summer started with a trip to Rockford, IL to visit family. We have a membership to the Detroit Science Center which gained us access to many other museums. Our kids went to LOTS of museums this summer.



~Burpee Museum of Natural History, Rockford, IL~





~Discovery Center Museum, Rockford, IL~





~Field Museum, Chicago, IL~




~Nature Preserve (across the street from my mother's house), Loves Park, IL~
These are by far some of my favorite photos of the summer.






~Detroit Science Center~
Just me and Noah before he left to spend the summer in NJ with Larry.




~Lots of play time with cousins and friends~





Said goodbye to an old friend....



...and hello to a new one (new to us anyway).



~Kensington Metro Park~
...we were there quite a bit










Ok, so there's quite a bit more...but I'm just going to have to do it in 2 posts (or more).

8/24/2009

While the Boys Were Away....


boys room curtains
Originally uploaded by sunshine0216
Without the older boys underfoot, I had the opportunity to get in their bedroom and give a good cleaning, and a bit of a facelift. The batik curtains I made a few years ago when I made the bedspreads, but I always thought the basic tie-back with ruffle top looked too feminine. Plus when making them, I ran out of fabric and had a curainless window (to the left of the bed), as I could never find the same fabric. So I took the 4 panels of fabric that I did have, and created an updated look by hanging them above the old rod pocket, eliminating the ruffle top, and using the tie-backs to give a shade effect, securing them with groovy green buttons.

I still love the bedspreads I made a few years ago, but having become a more seasoned sewer since then, I notice all the flaws. The photo doesn't do the fabric justice...it's a stretchy, "hairy" verigated fabric that I backed with some cozy fleece. The texture is really cool, and reminds me of the fur on Sully from Monsters, Inc. Peter has Asperger's and just loves things with texture, fringe, hair, etc. Notice the tie-die pillowcases to match.

They already have a lava lamp, so I'm hoping to run across a bean bag on Craigslist or Freecycle to toss in a spot I've cleared for that very thing.

8/11/2009

Oliver Has a Bad Dream



Oliver was awake for over an hour in the middle of the night over a bad dream. When I asked him about it this morning, he said that he was alone in the woods, and that he heard a loud noise that was St. Michael. He spoke about it on and off all day, and kept questioning why St. Michael would make such a loud noise. At one point he asked me, "Does St. Michael kill the devil before he casts him into hell?"

Out of the mouths of babes! Ultimately, he told me he wasn't so much scared as he was startled by the noise. When I asked why he thought it was St. Michael, he didn't know why...just knew it was. I explained that he was there as a protector, and that if he sees him again, to say hi, and ask him to be more quiet.

After all that, I thought for sure he may have a hard time going to sleep tonight. He didn't want to seem to be alone in his room after his shower, and made me close his closet door. We had a long snuggle, and I left, but he asked me to leave the light on which we haven't had to do in over a month.

Goodnight my sweet boy.

8/10/2009

In the Kitchen

I miss "boardwalk" lemonade. This came pretty close...mmmmm.



I had a few bananas that just weren't getting eaten, and jumped at the opportunity to make some banana bread...and throw in some chocolate chips...just because.

7/30/2009

Birthday Gift for Harmony




It started out as an order, but with her birthday somewhere around here (she keeps it a secret), I'm just going to gift it to her.
Her request was for a swimsuit cover - up like this one. on Etsy. I thought it would be easiest to start with a t-shirt, and pulled this together in no time.
I definately see more of these coming up in the near future.

Oh Stop! Don't!



Recently, for the first time, I had a customer send me a shirt out of her husband's closet and asked me to make a dress for her daughter. I took pictures of the shirt, and had intended to use the process to create a tutorial as well. Umm...as you can see, there has been no tutorial, and not even any finished pictures of the dress. I was nervous as heck, because this particular design has a fitted bodice, and despite careful measuring, my finished product turned out narrower than I had promised. I held my breath for days after mailing, waiting for a request for a refund...I was sure it was coming. To my delight, the dress fit Hope perfectly, and my customer Karen left me feedback that I just can't help but share.

A little conceited? Hell, yes, but I'm going to post it anyway.

Love it! Love it! Love it! You did a wonderful job making my husband's shirt into a cute sundress. Every seam is finished to perfection! I love the rickrack you added for a perfect touch! This is soooooo adorable that I don't want my daughter to wear (I want keep for my daughter's daughter!) Thanks for creating something so perfect!

7/29/2009

And Speaking of Vacation Bible School...

Oliver gushes and gushes about how much he loved going to vacation bible school across the street from Grandma's house, but he didn't really share details until today. Tonight, this was our conversation over dinner.
Oliver: Heaven is way up in the sky...in the desert.
Mom: Well, the desert is here on earth.
Oliver: Well, God is in the desert. You can't even touch the desert because it's like, far away, it's like feeling nothing. And in the desert they use record players instead of tv's, because they didn't have tv's that long ago.
Mom: What else did you learn.
Oliver: Teacher taught us about Moses, Jesus, and the Pharoh. When we went to bible bayou, we had a hunt, and we pretended the people were wild creatures. That was so funny, it freaked me out. But it was just pretend...it was fantastic. We got to make our own hats.

Then he said he was done with dinner, that he didn't care for my meatballs, and could he have a popsicle.

That's all I have to say about that!

Deconstruction / Reconstruction

A few days ago I posted of a thrift store find that I was to transform into a shoulder tie tunic for myslef. Of course, being a creative creature, once I started cutting, I yearned to try something different. I kind of regret it, but have learned a few things along the way.
First I started searching for inspiration, and what better place to search than through the millions of creative blogs that are out there. First I stumbled across Jezze who even had a tutorial!

Aside ~ As someone who has been sewing for less than 2 years, I'm all about the tutorials. Just when I think I know how to do something, I look for a tutorial and find what is usually a better way...ok, the right way.

So she inspired me to keep the shirt whole on top and make pleats at the neckline. I kind of followed her method of sizing the shirt, but this shirt was huge...I think a 3 or 4X. My shirt, unlike hers, had a pleat in the back as many men's shirts do. I just enclosed that pleat in a larger inverted pleat. Once I got that done, I trimmed the necline to sit where I wanted it to, and started pleating and pinning the front. I hacked the sleeves up and made bias to bind the neckline, and was very pleased with that part of the project. The back is another story.




Once I thought I was done, I hated the fit. I mean, I am trying to hide the extra 70 pounds I don't need, but I didn't want it to look like a maternity shirt. Darts? Yea, right...I've only done darts once, and it was a project where I actually used a pattern. If I hadn't already cut the sleeves and put elastic in, I would bring the sides in. I started by adding 2 strips in the back to hold the pleats down (there is probably a technical ter m for this, but I haven't a clue). It helps with how the shirt lays in the back, but I still think it's too bulky.


Shorten it, belt it...maybe just start all over and do what I was going to in the beginning? Don't know, but will show pictures of it on when I feel like I'm not modeling for the Motherhood maternity store.

7/28/2009

Is He a Lefty or Righty?

Oliver has always used his right hand for writing, coloring, eating, etc. Over the weekend, we noticed that when playing baseball, he bats like a lefty. Then today, while doing some phonics lessons I noticed that he uses his the mouse pad with his left hand as well. Maybe we have a true ambidextron (is that a word?) on our hands

Oliver doing phonics
Originally uploaded by sunshine0216
.


bottle cap bracelet
On another note, Oliver spent 5 days at my mother in laws going to vacation bible school. I wasn't sure he'd last more than 1 night, but we literally had to drag mister little independence home. He had a wonderful time, learned lots of bible stories, and made me this lovely bottle-cap bracelet which I'm wearing right this minute. Look at all the colors....it goes with just about anything!

7/27/2009

Downtown Detroit Waterfront

We have a lovely waterfront area in Detroit, and love to take the kids down there, and have a blast every time we do. We parked close, and didn't NEED to take the people mover (Detroit's elevated train), but with 2 kids who love trains...we took a lap around the city anyway.





7/21/2009

Thrift Store Finds


Thrift Store Finds
Originally uploaded by sunshine0216
For ages I have wanted the America's Test Kitchen Cookbook. I love the show, and they've just perfected a lot of the classics. Well since it's like fifty bucks, it's out of the question. I did however, find this little gem at my favorite thrift store today. The author? Christopher Kimball from America's Test Kitchen.
And aside from having to clean off someone elses floured fingerprints, and smears of unknown foods, it's in perfect condition. Certainly the best $2 I've spent...well...this week anyway.


Thrift Store Finds
Originally uploaded by sunshine0216



This buttery soft Ralph Lauren shirt is going to be mine, mine, mine. I love the print...it reminds me of the upholstery on a chair that my grandmother had when I was little. Finally....one of those shoulder tie tunics for myslef!

7/18/2009

Ooo...Ooo That Smell

So the genius that built our house in 1932 thought that it was a brilliant idea to put a "laundry" chute in on of the bedrooms that's 12" wide, and 4" deep. Now, I'm not sure, but I think laundry in 1932, was pretty much the same, bulk-wise, as it is now. And if that is indeed the case, maybe they just thought it would be good for socks and pantyhose and such. Frankly, I don't think that they were "thinking" at all.
The chute has been clogged since Steven bought the house. I think it's safe to say it's probably been clogged since little Bobby threw his size 8 dungarees down there in 1932. (Were there dungarees in 1932?) Anyway, I've spied Steven, on at least 3 occassions trying to unclog the clog all to no avail. I don't want the thing unclogged...it's dysfunctional and serves no purpose.
Can you see from the title of my post where this is going? Um....yea.
There's been a bit of a stink in that room lately, which by the way is Oliver's and Linus' room, and I've had the hardest time finding it. I was beginning to think something died in the attic. Today....I open the little door to the chute, and woohoo...there it was.
So I call Oliver upstairs and calmly ask:
Me: Oliver, have you been throwing anything down there?
Oliver: Yep, my pull-ups.
Me: How many times?
Oliver: oh...3 or 4
That's all, I don't think I need to say anymore. Good night.

7/17/2009

Funnies

While visiting the farm at Kensington, Oliver says, "that cow is a girl". Having just been to a dairy farm last weekend and having a discussion about teets, I was curious to see where this was going.
Me: Really, how do you know its a girl?
Oliver: Those things, the bumps.
Me: Do you remember what they're called?
Oliver: Pimbles

I truly wish I had some sort of mental notepad. He said so many things today that in the moment I swore I would remember to write down, but alas, my aging brain fails me again.

7/13/2009

The Places They Pee

I don't know if it's all boys (Noah certainly didn't do this type of thing), but Oliver pees in the most unlikely places. For example, he just came up to me to tell me "sorry mom, but I just peed in the drawer of my train table...may I have a popsicle please?"

oliver in gas shirt

Slowly But Surely

You know how it's difficult to sit and relax in a room that's chaotic or messy? I've discovered that *that* is the reason I've not been blogging. I'm not happy with the layout, it's missing something, or there's too much of something else...it just doesn't scream "Jill". I've been searching for new "skins", and trying things out on my own, but it's time consuming as I stink at Html.

So now that I've resigned myself to an excuse, please excuse me while I'm under construction. Any advice or feedback is certainly welcome...keeping in mind that It's all a work in progress.

7/11/2009

A Giveaway, A Giveaway!!!

Oh, how I love this jacket, and I'm entering the giveaway for the pattern from Make It Perfect.
Can't you just see Oliver and Linus in matching ones this fall??

6/10/2009

Our High-Tech Height Chart

Our Height ChartNoah kept insisting that he was as tall as I am. So to settle the matter, we headed into the kitchen to the door jam that doesn't lie. First me...5'3 1/2? When did I loose an inch? Ok, so maybe I always lifted my heels up just a bit at the Dr.'s office...I'm comin' clean.
Then Noah...5'3 3/8....when did THAT happen?

6/08/2009

A Day to Blog About

Oh, I admit it...I haven't been blogging nearly as much as I used to...I need to feel inspired. Well, today has most certainly been one of those days that inspires...hmm...is that the right word? I guess if you have a blank canvas, speckle with BBQ sauce, smear with Comet, sprinkle on some salt, grab a bag of grass, mud and a rock and stick that somewhere, hold it ("it" being the canvas)under a downspout during a rain storm, sprinkle (no, remove cap and dump) more salt...well you get the picture...ba dum bump....get it...picture?...canvas??

Oh, I need a martini! Is it bedtime yet?

Here we go...one at a time.
Noah...pretty non-descript day until Steven found one of his latest works of art. Geez...are all tween boys as obsessed with...um...well, I know they're at the age where they're curious. Let me tell you...we're on top of it though.

~Aside~ Just glanced out the window and spotted Oliver running across the back yard carrying shovels full of dirt back and forth. Forth to where and for what? Do I really want to know...naaa...just keep typing Jill. And I'm also going to ignore what Linus is doing in the kitchen. I can tell it involves the heap of plastic shopping bags...yes, I know they're NOT toys, children can suffocate, yadda, yadda. As long as I still hear them rustling he's ok...breathing at least.

So we're on top of it...yes! We have responsible, mature discussions...they come and ask questions...we do more than give them anatomical, medical terminology and send them on their way...we do...we do. The picture was hideous, and I don't just mean artistically. I can take that, just give me an apology, say you won't do it again...is that too much to ask? Evidentally, yes! He proceeds to blame it on Peter, who's right next to him, and is quick to disagree. Uhh...we know the difference in their writing and their drawing. Asking who did it was STRICTLTY a formality. Finally Noah says that "maybe" he did draw it, but can't remember. Are we stupid? Enough!

Peter immediately jumps in as the "good son" as soon as Noah is sent to his room. After dinner, volunteered to help clean up, asked if there was anything he could do for me. Hey...I'm no fool...I put him to work, but was easy on him. He watched Linus for me while I got the dishes done. No easy task really, because Linus is a monster.

Noah and Peter...what they need is a break. I'm glad school will be out this week...the mood always changes here during the summer.

Oliver...what to say about him. Well, he's our little composer, and quite the lyricist. His songs generally revolve around the theme "I want my baby back in my heartland"....whatever that means, and they're filled with all kinds of mouthed sound effects very reminiscent of my brother Chris who also had a talent for creative sounds (I'm being kind here). Almost everything out of his mouth is hysterical, because he mimics that tween drama that overshadows everything Noah and Peter say. "Mom, I soooo want to go to the park today". Umm...how old are you?

As for Linus...I lost count as to how many times a week he gets a bloody lip, and a couple of weeks ago he chipped a front tooth and now has a nice space. He's fast, and I'm pretty sure he's chanelling Houdini or Jack Jack (the baby from the Incredibles), because I can turn around, and he'll be hanging from the ceiling fan in the blink of an eye. Laughing about it too...not at all frightened. No fear this one, no fear. While we're hoping to get a priest out of the gang, he's more of a Navy Seal or something...maybe a tightrope walker, or one of those guys who climbs to the top of suspension bridges to do repairs...I could speculate all night.

There's a glass of wine and a popsicle calling my name. Oh shut up, I know they don't go together, but I refuse to do either or.

6/01/2009

Comfort In the the Words of Al Kresta

I have been so disturbed and upset by the murder of abortionist George Tiller and the subsequent backlash on the pro-life community. A short while ago I received this email and want to share.

Leading Abortionist Murdered
May 31, 2009
Al Kresta

Years ago, I debated the defrocked and excommunicated Presbyterian pastor Paul Hill (1954-2003) over the question of whether or not killing abortionists was justifiable homicide. In short, I argued “Absolutely not.” He argued that he was obligated to protect the unborn by killing their murderers and thus preventing further abortions.

Paul Hill wasn’t insane or even “mean.” Rather he was in the grip of an abbreviated logic. He reasoned that since abortionists kill children then by killing abortionists we will save children.

As a moral theologian and pastor, Hill was wrong and convinced almost nobody. When it was clear that pro-life people dismissed his argument as grossly inconsistent with the moral law, he went out and killed an abortionist and his escort and wounded the abortionist’s wife. Paul Hill was arrested, convicted and, in September 2003, executed for their murder. He never publicly repented and perished in his folly imagining himself a martyr and leader: “While most Christians firmly profess the duty to defend born children with force…most of these professors have neglected the duty to similarly defend the unborn…I was certain that if I took my stand at this point, others would join with me, and the Lord would eventually bring about a great victory.” As an activist and prophet, he was also dead wrong.

He failed to see two obvious truths:
- There are many non-violent ways to stop abortions.
- Every act of abortion has multiple accomplices. Each accomplice bears differing degrees of culpability. Why should Hill’s logic stop at the abortionist and not with others who make his work possible including local law enforcement that protects clinics?

How about the one person most obviously standing between the abortionist and the preborn: the mother. Mothers call for abortions. Tiller provided them a service for a fee. As long as mothers want to get rid of a pregnancy, there will be abortions. As long as men want sex without relationships, there will be prostitutes. Both advocates for abortion and prostitution are willing to take the cash and call it empowerment for women. This doesn’t mean the law should permit either abortion or prostitution. It does recognize that we won’t get rid of depersonalized sex by killing prostitutes and we won’t end abortion by eliminating abortionists.

Absurdity as well as tragedy stain his position. Yes, abortion is a form of child-murder. But it is murder carried out with the consent of the mother uninformed as she may be. Hill, to be consistent, should have advocated the use of proportionate force to stop abortions. Following his twisted logic, he should have forcibly stopped mothers from entering clinics and, when persuasion finally failed, anesthetized her and removed the innocent child by C-section. After all, isn’t this a more justifiable use of force? Nobody gets killed. Of course, this is morally repulsive.

Killing abortionists doesn’t save lives. It takes lives. It is murder. It usurps the authority of the state by pretending to mete out justice to evildoers. It is vigilantism and diminishes respect for the rule of law.

If the moral arguments aren’t clear then the public relations argument should be. While the law needn’t permit mothers to kill their children, neither is the law enough to make mothers want to avoid abortion. For that, it is necessary to turn the heart of the mother toward her child. Paul Hill turned hearts in the wrong direction. He created unnecessary sympathy for the pro-abortion regime.

In all likelihood Tiller’s killer has not prevented the death of children. More likely, he has further hardened America ’s heart against the unborn (who people can’t see) by generating sympathy for abortionists (who people can see). His act distorts the truth because it shows blood on the wrong hands. Good heavens, he was shot to death ushering in his church. Absurd.

As Fr. Pavone has written: “At this point, we do not know the motives of this act, or who is behind it, whether an angry post- abortive man or woman, or a misguided activist, or an enemy within the abortion industry, or a political enemy frustrated with the way Tiller has escaped prosecution. We should not jump to conclusions or rush to judgment.” I agree. Regardless of motive, however, Tiller’s death is an unjustifiable act of murder. His widow is bereft. His soul needs our prayers for the mercy he thought he was showing mothers but denying to their children. Tiller had mugs inscribed with the motto: “Trust women.” As an active churchgoer, it should have been “Trust God.”

5/05/2009

Giveaway on Simple Finds!

Simple Finds is having a great giveway for this incredible, very eco-friendly floor/carpet tiles. Come on over and enter to win.

Meet My New Mantra


Green Street Fair 1
Originally uploaded by sunshine0216
I WON"T get discouraged, I WON"T get discouraged, I WON"T, I WON"T, I WON"Tt get discouraged.

If someone had told me that I wouldn't sell one item at the Green Street Fair, I wouldn't have believed them. And that, my friends is exactly what happened. I thought it was the perfect venue to enter the street fair scene...my line of clothing is all about "green".

My heart just sinks when I think of all the preparation I put into this. I had planned to concentrate on some small, low-priced items during the last couple of days before the fair, and then we had a death in the family. My husband's grandfather died (RIP, Walter L. Andrews), and of course, our family focus had to change a bit. Despite my sister coming from IL to help me for the weekend, those last few days before the fair were a complete loss creatively. Since the funeral was on Saturday (yes, I managed to do both), my husband, having all the kids with him, would need the van. My display possibilities were limited to whatever I could fit in a Chevy Aveo.

My sister and I headed out early with what little we had, set everything up, and just as the fair started I left to go to the funeral. God bless my husband who was supportive of my endeavor, let me leave after the Mass and skip the cemetery and subsequent reception so that I can return to the fair.

The weather was beautiful, and the crowd was friendly and very receptive to my ideas. My designs created quite a buzz...people were gathering and ooh'ing and aahh'ing. I handed out a lot of business cards, and hope that at the very least, it will increase the traffic to my store.

So....do I attempt another? Do I keep things online? I haven't committed to any others yet, but will check out the Grosse Pointe Park Farmer's Market a week from Saturday. A friend who lives there thinks that I'd be a big hit.

Time to give my kids and husband more than 5 minutes of my time, get my house in order (which was thoroghly ignored for 3 weeks), plant my garden, and enjoy my Mother's Day weekend. Next week I will prepare to give it another go.

4/23/2009

About That Mullet

Disclaimer ~ Just for fun, not meant to be uncharitable!
What does your child's haircut say about you? Does it say anything? Is it relative to who you are, what kind of parent you are, your own likes or dislikes? Does it scream champagne and caviar, or Budweiser and boxed mac and cheese?

Ah...thoughts inspired by a trip to McDonald's for lunch...one with a Playplace. It is the 3rd dreary, rainy day in a row, it's spring break, and we went at noon...you do the math. Alas, the subjects for this study were plentiful.

What inspired me was the boy with the mullet. I don't see too many of those anymore, but we were at a McDonald's kind of bordering the "downriver" area of Metro Detroit, so anything goes. Now, the mullet carries with it a stigmatism of sorts, does it not? Yet parents willingly cut their child's hair this way.

If you are from Mars, or didn't live through the 80's and so are not familiar with the mullet, see below.



As I sat pondering all of this ~ while trying to keep an eye and ear out for my own children ~ I scanned the room discretly, in an attempt to identify the mother of the mullet-child. I honed into my alter ego as a socialogist, and was sure I had her spotted. She was a quasi-attractive woman in her late 30's, early 40's who had shoulder-length hair "feathered" on the sides, wearing stone-washed jeans neatly tucked into her slouch socks.

Just then...they mullet-child yelled out "mommy", and ran to another woman. Gasp! I was wrong! The mullet-child mommy was not the woman in the Van Halen concert t-shirt. In fact, she looked like a "TV" mom. Very pretty, put-together, well-dressed in current yet understated clothing...hmm. I bet if I followed her outside she'd get into one of those trendy cross-over vehicles with a GPS, built in DVD player in the back, and despite having 3 other children it is spotless...no cherrios on HER floors.

Feeling somewhat defeated, it was time to round up my kids and leave before I look around and find someone studying ME! Who, by the way was looking very Bohemian in a long crinkle skirt, clogs, tousled hair, and a baby with blond curly hair so long that everyone thinks he's a girl...so who's look needs an update? Just then, in walks a family with 2 boys who were about 4 and 7. Don't you know...they both had on black acid-washed jeans, camoflage jackets, and drumroll........matching mohawks!

Off to get Linus a haircut...well maybe tomorrow.

4/21/2009

I Swear I Posted Pictures of Easter

I've been so busy, and despite my last post, I'm no more organized now than I was then. First...family. We had a blessed Easter, and spent the weekend at my mother-in-laws. We left Noah and Peter there to spend their spring break with the understanding that "what happens at Grandma's, stays at Grandma's". The children looked great dspite only one of them being in handmade garb...shame on me.

3 Easter 09

In case you can't tell, Oliver is the one who got the handmade outfit. I was uber happy with the final result, but getting there was ALL drama. I blogged about it at Covered Button Cabaret if you care to read the saga. He looked unbelievably cute!

Oliver. Easter outfit modeled

And what would Easter be without an egg hunt?
This is what happens when you leave the hiding to two 11 year-olds.

Egg hunt 7

I think we tried to get Violet in this one too, but she wasn't cooperating. Peter and Noah look as if they're nursing a chocolate hangover and it's only 2pm.

Easter.cousins

We certainly had the best weather we've had on Easter for as long as I can remember. Spring was everywhere.

daffoldil 3

crocus

And adding this one just because it's sooo cute!

Oliver and Linus on the fence

4/20/2009

The Mother Load


the mother load
Originally uploaded by sunshine0216
After 15 minutes and $14, I left the thrift store with the greatest finds. The men of Detroit know how to dress, and I'm reaping the benefits of their good taste. Ralph Lauren, Phat Farm, Pierre Cardin, TailorByrd....yummy!

Time to dive into deconstruction/reconstruction.

4/13/2009

Pattern Alterations by a Novice

I love Ottobre! Unfortunately, I only have 1 issue, 1/2008, but find ways to use the heck out of it. Believe it or not, this Easter outfit I made for my 4 year-old started as the "Ladybug Vest" and "Candy Pants" from that issue. I'm trying to be REALLY frugal, so rather than buying a pattern I decided to make things up as I went along. Sometimes this works for me....sometimes it comes back and bites me in the ass.

Originally I wanted knickers and a vest, but the only knicker pants in this issue call for a zipper. I was afraid that having not mastered zipping and buttoning quickly...he may have(potty)accidents. And since this is intended as an Easter outfit, we do what we must to avoid such accidents.

modified "candy pants"

Anyhow...I thought the ties and gathering at the bottom were girly, so I made leg cuffs and took 3 tucks on the outside of the leg on both the front and back. I had to deconstruct and reconstruct this once because I had the tucks on one leg going in the same direction as the other leg as opposed to both tucking toward the outside. I added pockets (Oliver LOVED these)and cut the fabric on the bias just to add some contrast.

Oliver vest

facing on vest

I used the "Ladybug Vest" pattern size 110, and altered the bejeezes out of it. First, I squared the front, and omitted the trim panels. I was just going to leave the neckline rounded, and do buttons on the front until my husband asked me to add lapels. I indulged him why? Since I already had it put together, I wasn't sure what to do about having to add facing. I put it down and traced, cut, overstitched the edges (I REALLY need a serger), and can't believe that it worked. I was seriously stunned! It's FAR from perfect, but unless I go around showing the inside...who's going to know? After all of that, it was too wide. I had to make the shoulders more narrow, and take the sides in. Then it was a little too narrow, and it made the pants poof out below the vest giving a reverse mushroom look. Shortened the length, moved the buttons over a little, and done.

Oliver. Easter outfit modeled


Ultimately, he looked adorable. I loved the way the pants fit him and I can tell he enjoyed wearing it...egg hunt, climbing trees, to the park...obviously comfy and durable.

The lesson here? Splurge and buy a pattern.

3/31/2009

Craving a Routine

simple mom

My friend Lee posted a link to Simplemom.net and this post regarding routine. How providential!! I have been craving some sort of routine with the kids lately. When I was first laid off in August, I put off structuring my day thinking I'd be getting a new job quickly, so why bother? Now, it's to the point where I am overwhelmed with the amount of time I have during the day, and the number of tasks that I have to do. There are days when I know that the kids have watched *way* too much TV. It's PBS, but still TV. Shame, shame...they're watching SUPER Y as we *speak*.

One of my challenges is the age difference between Oliver and Linus. Oliver no longer takes naps, and Linus will take 1 sometimes 2, and they are rarely more than 30 to 45 minutes. He would sleep for over an hour if I slept with him on my chest...but who has time for that? Ok, I do indulge sometimes and nap with him. Oliver and I like to do craft projects, which are virtually impossible with a 19 month old hanging around. Linus is into everything, and will eat anything in his path. Having scissors, paints etc. out while he is awake is out of the question!

Sometimes it is 2:00 before I realize I haven't fed the kids lunch yet. My only excuse...Oliver usually tells me when he's hungry. Throw into the mix that on days when Steven works evenings, I feel less obligated to prepare a formal dinner. It's often soup, sandwiches, etc.

So I'm off to scour Tsh's blog and hope that therein lies the secret to getting it all together. I'm good with lists...I should start there...lists are good!

Oh my gosh...she has downloads here. How cool!!!

3/27/2009

Processes....Ugh!

As much as I enjoy sewing, I just despise some parts of the process. Tracing and cutting out patterns is right up there. Ironing runs a close second...although I've learned that my finished product is far better if I iron when (during construction) I'm supposed to.

This project will be the death of me...oh yes, the drama of it all! Matching Easter outfits for my 4 year-old, and my 19 mo. old. Since I'm broke, new patterns are out of the question, so I got out the only issue of Ottobre that I own.
Hint ~ a subscription to this magazine is a WONDERFUL gift idea for me, and can be found at The Wooley Thread (women's and kids issues pretty please).


Easter clothing process

"It's just going to be a couple of pairs of knickers and vests" is all I said. Then, realizing that Ottobre made the patterns for one kids size and not the other. This means modifications, and I'm too much of a novice to think that I can modify an Ottobre pattern. Look at those pattern sheets...look!

Well, I'll stop whining now, and update when I've made some progress. My goal is to have all the fabric cut by the end of the weekend so that I can begin to sew on Monday. I swear...someday I'm going to teach my husband how to trace and cut patterns AND cut out the fabric. What do you think of that?
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