Bumblebee & Sophie

How many Water Bottles do two people need???

2012-02-07T08:50:00.003-05:00

Organize and Simplify my new mantra...next up the water bottle cabinet. This cabinet has always been chock full of bottles, and even when kids moved out and took theirs with them, the cabinet seemed to always be in a state of overflow...How does that happen??

This is way too many for just two people...

And along with the water bottles come the lids...a whole drawer full.

The bottom shelf house the overflow water bottles and these items. The camelbak's have gone to live in another place, at least for now... the multicolored bowls, I think I bought for a party along time ago...

The After:

Look, even some space on the shelf, notice lids now in container!

plates are for dinners on the deck, and small potluck, nicer and more sturdy than paper.

TA DA!!!! a nearly empty drawer.

I am making my way around the kitchen. Then on to the rest of the house, the thought makes me tired and energized all at the same time!

Happy Simplifying!

Cindy

Also linking to A Bowl Full of Lemons , Pancakes and Frenchfries (the William Morris Project)

Organize and Simplify

2012-01-31T19:48:00.000-05:00

It snowed all morning, I love the snow, I think it makes me more productive, and certainly more cozy.

I have been reading Tsh Oxenreider's book Organized Simplicity. Tsh is over at Simple Mom, you should check out her blog, it is great!

Now that all four children are married and moved on, my husband and I have toyed with the idea of downsizing. We have a four bedroom house, mostly filled with our stuff, and some of our kids stuff... I have been challenged to get to work on organizing and getting rid of the excess. There are so many things that we have accumulated in the last 20 years, some, I have no clue where they came from, and some, I wonder what possessed me to keep.

Yesterday I cleaned out the coffee mug cupboard, I got rid of many mugs. My husband was looking for a mug for some hot water. This conversation ensued...

Husband, "Where are the blue chicken mugs?"

Me, "I am getting rid of them."

Husband, "They were my hot water mugs."

Me, "Can't you use your "Dartmouth" mug?"

Husband, "But that is my coffee mug."

Me, later after a chuckle in the other room... "We will never be able to live in a smaller space."

Husband, "Oh yes we will..." (not very believable)

You see, this is not the only time he has said, why are we getting rid of such and such.... he likes to save things. Maybe I will make that Goodwill trip before he comes home from work!!!!

Today was "Purge the Plastic" day!!
The "plastic storage" (Tupperware) cupboard, is not a favorite for my husband. He complains he can never find a lid that fits the container. I was amazed at how many lids I had that there were no containers for??? Where did they go????

This is all the plastic I am taking to Goodwill, minus what is in the red bowl, those are the "extra" lids.

Now each container(s) are on top of the lids. My husband was impressed!! And put away leftovers tonight with glee!!!

I had company today, little Cora watched and played...she is so cute!!

Grandma are you sure you should get rid of that....

Have a super day!!

Cindy

linking up to The William Morris Project over at Pancakes and French Fries

Linking up to Sew Can Do

I Love Vermont!!

2012-01-25T16:44:00.001-05:00

I think my youthful dreams rear their heads now and again, usually when I visit places I could see myself living. I love the outdoors, the woods, the mountains, cute little villages with a post office no bigger than my living room.

We went skiing with some friends early this week, my husband and I left on Saturday and drove to a really sweet place, The Nutmeg Inn in Willmington, VT. I highly recommend it, the inn-keepers were gracious hosts and the gathering room was lovely with a complementary glass of wine and a great fire!! The breakfast was delightful and fueled us for the day of skiing ahead.

The skiing on Sunday was great, beautiful blue skies, no wind, temps about 12 degrees. Seem cold? Yes, but over night it had been minus 12 (-12) degrees. We had a delightful day.

We met up with our friends and family later and watched the Patriots win the football game!!! On to the Super Bowl!!!

We had a fantastic time at Stratton, great fun and good food, fun games and most of all great skiing.

Waiting for me at home were two more packages of fabric I had ordered!!!! Yeah!! Fun!! Take a look.

Can't wait to get started on some new projects!

Have a great day,
Cindy

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Flashback Friday

2012-01-20T15:52:00.000-05:00

Beautiful morning, new snow, bright blue skies, birds busy at the feeder.

The week has gone fairly well, until today...I have had one of those days...
Starting with a head cold, or allergies (in the winter??), so the energy level has been pretty low. I have tried to plod along with my chore list, but have had a few frustrations along the way. The biggest one is trying to print some new business cards. I think this is the last time I try the do-it-yourself version. I spent over an hour trying to get the copy to line up with the printer so the cards print in the right place. Not perfect but done.

Flashback to my week:

I started babysitting my youngest Granddaughter, Cora...she is cute and a really good baby.

Not a fan of "tummy time"

look at those eyelashes!!

And I had Sophia, she is now two and talking up a storm, loves wearing my shoes.

Then....be still my beating heart...I ordered lots of new fabric. Both packages came, but one was actually not my fabric, I was soooo bummed. Two orders got mixed up, but, my fabric is on its way to me, and I mailed off the other persons fabric... Here is what came, can't wait to start sewing, they are being washed as I type!!

Some cute dresses, sewing machine covers are going to come out of this...stay tuned.

Some friends and my husband and I are going skiing this weekend. See you when we get back.
Have a great weekend!

Cindy

Weekend fun

2012-01-16T10:40:00.000-05:00

Here in New Hampshire we are experiencing real "winter" for the first time since the big Halloween storm... that means snow on the ground, no grass showing, and the temperature this morning was -3 degrees. I love the snow, but the really cold temperatures, I am not a fan! Pretty winter sunsets, yes, I am a fan!!

We had our granddaughter Sophia for an overnight. She is now 2, loads of fun, learning lots of new words, and loves her "Baba" so much. The most repeated line this weekend..."Baba play toys?"

Baba loves to "play toys"

I spent nap time working on a custom order sewing machine cover. Progress so far...

This one went out in the mail on Saturday!

Hope you had a great weekend!

Cindy

Linking to:

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First days

2012-01-12T20:57:00.000-05:00

Today was actually my third day home, well sort of. My last day at the lab was a week ago, I spent a long weekend with my brother in Denver, he has been battling cancer and I had not seen him since my daughter's wedding last February. I had a nice time just hanging out with his family, taking a drive into the mountains, shopping on Pearl St. in Boulder and watching the Broncos beat the Steelers. I think we both feel the importance of staying connected.

Mike and I, pray he can gain some weight, in preparation for two more chemo treatments

Back to my day...I had cute little Cora all day today, her Mommy, Rachel is attending a seminar/class. Rachel is getting her Masters, in Montessori Teaching. She was nervous, first time leaving Cora for so long, but we had a great day!

Look at those eyelashes!!!

I have been working on some sewing machine cover custom orders, and I made a pair of mittens from an old wool sweater I found at Goodwill.

I am happy to be home, it even snowed all day, how cozy!!!!

Hope you had a cozy day.

Cindy

I am quitting my day job!!!!!

2012-01-03T16:20:00.001-05:00

I have worked various jobs since retiring from being a homeschooling Mom, from church secretary, to sandwich queen at a small breakfast lunch place, to the current job (last day tomorrow...dance around) as a receptionist at a Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory. Since starting Bumblebee and Sophie I have squeezed in trying to run a home, and a business, luckily the kids are all grown up. I admire all you young Moms out there doing it all!!

I am so excited to come home, the decision was long debated with my husband. We don't rely on my income to survive, but, we have enjoyed many extras because of the money I have made. Some like my new ride...can't wait for summer to come, although it was so warm on Sunday we went for a 15 mile ride.

Husband and I are going to do three triathlons this summer!!

My second daughter Rachel blessed us with Granddaughter Cora last August. She is a pre-school teacher at a nearby Montessori School, she would like to go back to work and is working on her Masters degree. She wondered about me babysitting, so that was the great debate, my husband finally said "What would you regret not doing in 10 years." That was the easiest question in the world!!!!!! And so my last day is tomorrow and in a couple of weeks Rachel will head back to work and I will have little Cora for the mornings!!!!

She is the cutest thing!!!!

Besides babysitting I will be working on Bumblebee and Sophie, hopefully you will see more posts and some fun changes to what BB&S has to offer.

I am looking forward to what 2012 has to offer!!

Happy New Year!

Cindy

Linky parties we have joined:
Sew Many Ways
A Bowl Full of Lemons
Northern Cottage

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T17:14:00.003-05:00

It is Christmas Eve, the baking is done, the presents all wrapped. We have our Christmas Eve Service tonight, we join with our friends and family to celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus.

"And the word became flesh and dwelt among us

and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father,

full of grace and truth....

And from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace."

John 1:14,16

I pray you will receive His grace upon grace this day.

Merry Christmas

Cindy

Cookie Baking Day

2011-12-21T16:32:00.001-05:00

Cookie Baking Day is a fairly new Christmas Tradition for us. It began two years ago when Sophia was brand new, my parents, her Great-Grandparents came from Arizona to spend Christmas with us. This year we were blessed to have my daughter-in-law, Danielle with us. She and our son Chris are here visiting from Singapore.

We each make a different cookie and then split them all up at the end of the day.

Sophia and Cora

Auntie Rachel cooking with Sophia

Auntie Alissa, relaxing with Cora

This is the only cookie picture

Auntie Danielle and Cora

Sophia and Mommy

Oh which one can I have...

I only took one picture of the cookies we made, but really it was a day all about being together and celebrating being family, the cookies were a bonus.

Merry Christmas !

Cindy

Christmas Traditions

2011-12-16T21:29:00.000-05:00

All of us have various holiday traditions. Sometimes those "traditions" change over the years, you choose a different color scheme, change out your ornaments, no stockings, and the list could go on. Over the years many of the things we have done have changed, but there are a few that won't change. Food... one of the holiday traditions is Nuts and Bolts. My Grandmother and my Mom made this every year, and I have as well, and my daughters are carrying on the tradition.

The recipe - special notes at the end of the post

The assembled ingredients

The roasting pan full ready for the oven!!

oh yummy

Here is the complete recipe: with my tweaks

Nuts and Bolts
1 box cheerios
1 box rice chex
1 bag thin pretzel sticks

1 large container of mixed nuts(without peanuts)
1 large jar of peanuts
1 large container of cashews (my favorite)

2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
1 Tbsp. Tabasco sauce ( I use 2 Tbsp. some family members use more)
1 Tbsp. garlic salt
1 Tbsp. celery salt

1 cup butter
1cup canola oil

Melt together oil, butter, spices and sauces.
Mix the cereal, nuts and pretzels in a large roasting pan, pour liquid ingredients over and mix well.
Bake at 250 degrees for 1 1/2 - 2 hours, stirring every 30 min.

Enjoy!!
Cindy

Getting Ready for Christmas

2011-12-07T13:41:00.001-05:00

It is a gray and rainy day here, doesn't feel much like Christmas. The promise of snow for tonight is tenuous at best. I am struggling to find time to do all the things that are on my plate! How about you?

Some decorating has taken place...some

The snowmen are waiting patiently for their final destination

The Moravian Star replaces our dining room chandelier

The Christmas tree is up thanks to my husband and daughter Rachel, thanks Rach!!

The rest awaits my free time, hopefully before the 24th!!

No presents yet either, still hidden, at least the ones purchased so far.

I am off to my sewing room to finish one last custom sewing machine cover, then on to my projects. Probably should clean before I decorate. Add that to the list!
Have a happy day in spite of the busyness!!

Cindy

Kittery Craft Fair Cupon! $5 Off

2011-12-01T23:01:00.001-05:00

Print this coupon and bring it to the "From the Studio: Artist Market and Sale" in Kittery, ME on Saturday. Just copy and past this address: Kittery Lions Club, 117 State Road, Kittery, ME and click here for directions to the Kittery Lions Club. The Fair runs from 9am to 3pm. The coupon is only good at this craft fair (our last one of the season!) so make sure you stop by and take advantage of the discount!

See you Saturday!

-Cindy and Sarah

From the Studio ~ Artist Market and Sale

2011-11-30T16:32:00.001-05:00

Saturday we will be at the Kittery, Maine Lions Club for the From the Studio~Artist Market and Sale.

The Artist Market gathers artists from the Southern Maine and The Seacoast Area. There will be a wide variety of goods for sale, Mast Cove Pottery, bronze ornaments and sculpture by the Green Foundry, stained glass by Gerri, David Jacobson Glass, paintings, jewelry and of course Bumblebee and Sophie!!

Open from 9 AM to 3 PM

The Kittery Lions Club

117 State St ( Route 1)

Kittery, Maine

A few of our items you will find at the market on Saturday!

adorable tunic

Little boy vest

Little boy vest with lizards

Hippie Girl tunic

Jumper with pear applique

Come and do a bit of Christmas shopping!!

And come back on Friday for a printable coupon for $5.00 off!!

See you Saturday
Cindy

Handmade Shops List

2011-11-27T04:00:00.000-05:00

I am really excited to share this list with you all, Julie Fitzsimmons over at Vibrant Designs put this list together, a great variety of handmade for your holiday shopping! All of the participating shops you will find online are having great sales for Cyber Monday so check them out!!

Happy Shopping!!

Cindy

PS. If you shop at Bumblebee and Sophie our coupon codes will be:

cybermonday11 for 20% off
freeship11 for free shipping

Vibrant Designs

Vibrant Designs is a small shop that carries jewelry, accessories, and bags. I am so excited for the upcoming Christmas holidays, so I've decided to have a great sale on all ready to ship listings! On Cyber Monday, you will enjoy 30% off our clearance items and 20% off the rest of the items in my shop. To top it off, I'm extending FREE SHIPPING for one day only! Just use the coupon code CYBERMONDAY to redeem your discounts! Come follow my blog and watch for a unique Vibrant Designs Christmas Giveway!

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a girl and a glue gunshop is a place where i sell all my extra crap leftover from my blog! I've got

levi aprons, rings, keychains, handwarmers, animal scarfs, and all sorts of other random crap!

Everything in the shop is 15% off for CYBER MONDAY only! come by and say hi!

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Bumblebee and Sophie is a children’s clothing and accessory company that provides unique designs in playful fabrics for baby girls ages three months to three years. We have branched out into boy clothes with a tunic style shirt, vests, and pants, sizes newborn(vests) to three years. We offer custom sewing machine covers and would love to create custom nursery bedding for your new little one.

We are excited for Cyber Monday and will offer 20% off and free shipping for all in stock items. (sorry not on custom orders)

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Posies In My Pocket

Fun, colorful gifts and stocking stuffers! Posies In my Pocket specializes in unique accessories for the girly girl in all of us! I hope you enjoy my items as much as I do making them!

On Cyber Monday, all orders placed will receive 15% off the entire shop!! Use code CYBERMONDAY at checkout.

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Posie Hill Farm

Happy Holidays from Posie Hill Farm Treat Stands, Cake Plates and Pie Plates make lovely holiday gifts and are the perfect way to display your special holiday treats. Take a look around and enjoy my little shop filled with handmade, recycled, vintage and vintage inspired items for the home. On Cyber Monday, enjoy 15% off all purchases using the code CYBERMONDAY!

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The Paper Stork

Specializing in custom handmade, original and unique nursery and children's artwork. Each piece is one of a kind. My nursery prints are whimsical and primarily made from different patterns and textures to create a paper collage. Receive 10% off any piece of nursery art with the code CYBERMONDAY. Enjoy!

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The Country Chic Cottage etsy shop has a mixture of vintage and handmade goods for your home. Custom barnwood signs can be ordered with your choice of quote, name, or word. Take 25% off anything in the store with code TAKE25 -- free shipping in the US everyday. Be sure to also follow along on The Country Chic Cottage blog for further updates.

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Beez Kneez is a true mom and pop shop with all of our products being made by us in our studio in California. All of our supplies are from suppliers here in the USA. We specialize in personalized and customized apparel and accessories for children. Customers can save an extra 20% off our already great sale when using the coupon code CYBERMONDAY.

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A Bit of String carries handknit and crocheted accessories and photo props for little ones. Each item is handmade with special attention to detail, and the shop is a favorite among moms and photographers. Many items will be discounted through the Thanksgiving weekend, so be sure to check the shop. Also, check out their Facebook page to be notified of new listings. Use coupon code FREESHIP10 for free shipping from Black Friday through Cyber Monday!

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Whimsical and fun, yet vintage and classic. I love to accessorize with color and it shows by what I sell. Wear something surprising and shop vixenMade. Get 20% off all items in shop on Cyber Monday. Use the coupon code CYBERMONDAY to get your discount and have fun shopping! In the meantime, come visit my blog for more crafting fun! ___________________________________________________________________________________

1499 Vintage is a Vintage shop with lots of carefully selected home decor, house wares and accessories. We are a husband and wife team of vintage lovers and are always on the hunt for that oh so special item to add to our shop next. Visit our shop for a great assortment of special finds that will add some unique character to your home.On Cyber Monday we will be offering a 10% discount on everything in the shop :) Follow the blog for updates on new arrivals and other special offers.___________________________________________________________________________________

Babes&Sages is a handmade shop selling mostly boho style headbands in many different colors and styles.I use gorgeous lace headbands and different new and vintage fabrics and buttons to create a truly special look.You will also find some felt headbands as well as jewelry. Please stop by frequently as stock changes.On Cyber Monday you can save 20% on all items and on top of that all headbands are always free shipping!!! Follow the blog or facebook page for updates on new arrivals and other special offers. ___________________________________________________________________________________

ZLilly Accessories

Unique, hand cut designs made for fashionable kids.

ZLilly Accessories carries a variety of applique shirts and onesies to suit your child's personality and interests-and be easy on your wallet! We also create one-of-a-kind designs for custom orders (great for Christmas gifts, wedding parties, baby showers, family pictures).

Receive 25% off ZLilly purchases (does not include shipping or custom orders) with code CYBERMONVD.

Happy Holidays! Want more information? Please follow us at How Do U Like Them Apples? for crafty goodness and other product information.

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Come and get some Christmas shopping done at The Kiki Comin Shoppe! The Kiki Comin Shoppe is filled with fun and funky prints for your home, your friend's home and anyone else you can dream up! On Cyber Monday ONLY you can recieve 25% off all of your print orders by entering the code CYBERMONDAY. A customer favorite "I love you because" print would be a perfect gift for your home, for your child or even grandchild! You can see how I have decorated with this print in my home HERE. There is everything from Family Trees to You Are My Sunshine prints. Head on over and see us HERE..and drop by my blog, Kiki Creates, for special deals going on all week!___________________________________________________________________________________

Oh hi, I'm Amie. I run a little shop called {Kitty Cats and Airplanes} that's full of whimsical and romantic vintage-style jewelry. I also have a {blog} with tons of crafty tutorials and a {facebook page} where I like to run special friends only promos! Speaking of promos, since it's Cyber Monday, I am having a huge sale! 30% off everything in the store using code CYBERMONDAY (original huh?) If that isn't good enough, all orders over $20 get FREE shipping! Hold onto your socks, I've got one more. See those cute rose bud earrings? For every $30 you spend, you get a free pair in any color you'd like. Awesome. Happy shopping!

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My name is June & my Etsy shop is CreationsByJune. I have pre made scrapbooks, upcycle necklaces and scarves, a few purse and lots of vintage patterns. In honor of cyber Monday, for November 28 through December 2, ALL shipping is FREE and all purchases over $50 will get 10% off! Coupon code for free shipping is 2011CYBER, and then convo before paying for the 10% off! You can also find me in blog land at Creations By June.

I look forward to seeing you!

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CJ's Craft Corner is a mother-daughter team. Our shop specializes in "fabric creations to brighten your life". We love making affordable, quality, colorful items like tea wallets, car trash bags, mug rugs, and more. Our Cyber Monday sale will run from Friday, November 25 through Monday, November 28. Use code CYBER15 to save 15% off any purchase (not including shipping). Check out our facebook and twitter too!

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Hi there! My name is Kara and I am the owner of Mine for the Making {shop} and the blogger behind the Mine for the Making {blog}. I love to make whimsical, vintage inspired jewelry and hair accessories for girls of all ages. Being a girly-girl and having a daughter fuels my passion to create handmade pretties! Besides making things for my shop, I love to be a mommy, craft, paint, cook, bake, teach, learn new things, laugh, work on our home, and blog :) Check out and Facebook page and follow me on Pinterest!

Get 30% off EVERYTHING in the shop with coupon code CYBERMONDAY30___________________________________________________________________________________Welcome to Shop Bugaboo! Here you’ll find fine art, stationary, jewelry, accessories, baby and toddler items, home goods and apparel at a reasonable price. Many of our creations are upcycled, recycled or thrifted and all are brought to you on a dime; our goal is to provide everyone with beautiful, quality handmade and unique items - whatever your budget. Our Cyber Monday sale gives you a whopping 40% off everything in the shop! It begins at midnight on Sunday and runs until midnight on Monday, and will include many new listings of stationary, jewelry, wreaths and more! Be sure to stop over for your Christmas shopping and decor needs!

Fields of Gold wrapped washer necklace

Sunshine Wreath

Season's End - Watercolor and Ink

Handmade Cyber Monday Sale

2011-11-23T12:48:00.001-05:00

Hi, Everyone! It's Sarah, here, I know I haven't posted in a while: my Mom, Cindy has been doing most of the posting, but I thought I'd take a turn here...

More and more people are committed to shopping locally, which is great! When people choose to purchase items from small farms and business around them it helps these micro-economies flourish. Last Saturday a couple of my friends and I went to a local winter farmer's market and I purchase the MOST AMAZING handmade ravioli from Valicenti Organico, it was stuffed with pear, prosciutto and gorgonzola cheese. Ahh, it melted in our mouths when we cooked it for dinner that night. So good.

There were so many other amazing products to choose from, meats, cheeses, eggs, vegetables, herbs, wine, bread it was a feast for the senses just to be there (then a literal feast later on when we cooked up our purchases). It's easier to buy local with food products thanks to friendly farmers markets, its a little harder to buy local when it comes to other things. But thanks to Etsy.com, buying local and buying handmade is even easier. With the holidays fast approaching, what better time to start buying local than now! And if you have a little one or know someone with a little one, then our clothing and accessories are thee PERFECT gift, which is why we are participating in the "Handmade Cyber Monday Sale."

Starting on Monday, November 28th you'll find great deals and deep discounts at our Etsy shop. And if you don't find what you're looking for there you can always custom order your hearts desire (well, if your heart desires a pony, we don't exactly do ponies;-) But handmade for little ones newborn to three years, yep, that us!

Happy Shopping!

--Sarah

Guest Posting and Special Features

2011-11-17T14:35:00.001-05:00

I feel really blessed to be guest posting today over at Just Made That Way, Rochelle is way over in Queensland, Australia, how cool is that!! She is celebrating one year of blogging. So go on over and check it out! Say Hi while you are there

Yesterday we were featured on Barefoot By The Sea, Jessica and I met at a craft fair in our town, Dover, NH.

Jessica has several businesses including the Paper Stork, where she has some adorable nursery art!!

This is so cute!

Check out these new friends of mine and their wonderful blogs!!
Cindy

Shopping Days Ahead

2011-11-15T15:05:00.001-05:00

I am looking forward to Christmas Shopping, actually I have done some already, which is good for me! I am good at thinking about what I want to get for everyone, but slow to get it done.

I really want to buy handmade this year, there are so many talented folks out there with really wonderful products!!

Bumblebee & Sophie is participating in a Handmade Cyber Monday Sale. This is all new to me and I sure hope all goes well with the coupon code creating and posting places, emails...yikes I better stop so I don't get overwhelmed!!

There is an abundant supply of wonderful handmade items on Etsy.

Click on this link Handmade Cyber Monday Sale or on the button in the sidebar to see a listing of some of those shops.

Be sure to come back on Monday, November 28th and shop till you drop!!! You can even shop in your PJ's!

Have a great day,
Cindy

Boy Vests

2011-11-10T04:00:00.000-05:00

I have had fun creating these cute little vests. The pattern is from Little Lizzard King, it is a great pattern, easy to follow and makes up super cute!

These Elephants are so cute

The smallest one is a newborn size. SUPER cute and tiny!!

I was going to take these pictures outside, but it was almost dark at 4:30, UGH!

Missed matched buttons are fun!

I will be putting these up in our Etsy shop hopefully today.

We have two more Craft Fairs coming up. Check out this post to find out where and when.

Have a great day.

Cindy

First Snow and a Preview

2011-10-28T09:04:00.002-04:00

It happened last night, the rain turned to snow...the leaves are still mostly on the trees, the color is still fairly nice, now with a frosty edge. I love snow, love to ski, but, I must admit, this is a bit early. I comfort myself knowing that the snow will all be gone by noon and we will again be in fall. At least for a few days...

Impatients encased in the icy snow

Our Red Maple still has most of its leaves

Just a bit of snow

Preview of some of the clothes I have been working on

Notice the ice/snow on the table

Come see us at the craft fairs, for these and more.

Happy Fall/Winter

Cindy

Boy invades Bumblebee and Sophie

2011-10-21T04:00:00.000-04:00

I have been working on adding to the Bumblebee and Sophie offerings. I have some new little girl jumpers and dresses that I am working on. I will feature some soon.

But the big announcement is we now have some BOY Clothes. Here is a sampling of a few.

Tunics for boys

Vests

pants

Vest pattern is from Little Lizard King

I will be putting these in our ETSY shop so check it out.

Have a great day

Cindy

Bumper Pads for Cora

2011-10-17T04:00:00.000-04:00

When Rachel was anticipating Cora's birth, she picked out fabrics that would be somewhat neutral, since they were not going to find out the sex of this baby before the birth.

These were the fabrics she choose. I love the grays and yellows.

I saw a quilt that was basically a "crazy" Log Cabin, made from very soft pastels, it was beautiful and looked very easy to make. I started with a center that was not square and went from there. I will most likely do it differently, as I had some strips that were slivers when I put the blocks together.

The pallet of grays and yellows is so pleasing to look at, and fun to work with.

For the bumper pads I purchased a package of foam pads from JoAnn Fabrics, what a great invention!!
check them out here.

I then made the front and backs, putting together different squares, it really adds visual interest and stimulation for the baby. I had to keep checking as I put them together so all the birds would be right side up.

I used ribbon for the ties, two colors the yellow and the gray.

Sewing the two sides together and then inserting the foam went smoothly, the tricky part is sewing the opening shut. I wanted to sew the opening on the machine rather than by hand, for a stronger seam. Pushing down the foam and pinning it out of the way you can then sew the seam together.

The foam pops back out and fills the space very nicely.

Cora's Nursery is all put together, Rachel has done a great job with the room. More pictures next post.

Cindy

Fall Craft Fairs

2011-09-26T14:16:00.000-04:00

This fall you will be able to find our booth at several craft fairs in the Seacoast area of New Hampshire. Stop by to say hello or find some great new styles for you little girl or boy (Yes! We will now have boys clothing!).

November 5th, 2011 Dover Band Craft Fair in Dover, NH at the Dover High School Gymnasium

November 20th, 2011 Greenland Women’s Club Craft Fair in Greenland, NH at the Greenland Central School

December 3rd, 2011 Kittery Craft Fair in Kittery, Maine at the Kittery Lions Club

Hope to see you there!

Time Management...or not

2011-09-17T08:47:00.000-04:00

It is Saturday morning, I am participating in an Etsy sellers event, a quilting party of sorts. We will be putting together quilt tops for Project Linus, providing quilts for needy babies born at our local hospital. We are also able to set up a table with our shop wares... I do have many made items, but I had wanted to have some of the new boy clothes to display. I am about to finish a pair of pants, but won't have the time to get the tunic done...ugh. Or finish the binding on a quilt to sell...

Where does my time go?? I am not chasing kids around, well, except for babysitting my granddaughters days. Which were more numerous this week, which I LOVE and don't regret at all. I do work part time, 5 days a week, till noon. I have a home, neglected, don't look in the corners kind of home, a husband, who is supportive, but I have groceries to get, other errands, not to mention getting together with friends. I don't want to become a hermit... Add into that, training for a Sprint Triathlon, reading for pleasure, just quiet time for me, dates with my husband.

Then there is the sewing, pattern making, blogging, managing the Etsy shop. I am grateful to my daughter who manages the website. Oh and the picture taking, which I always forget...till I am ready to blog.

Do any of you struggle with time management?? What am I doing, I should be sewing... 2:00 PM is coming soon, need to fit in a bike ride, a shower, and what am I taking...YIKES.

Have a great weekend everyone...there was frost on my husband's truck this morning...oh here it comes.

NO not this morning, but LAST winter...this is what is coming...but lets not get ahead of ourselves, we have the fall color to look forward to, and some hiking...fitting it all in, somehow.

Cindy

Laura's quilt: Monkey Pants

2011-09-10T04:00:00.000-04:00

This past winter, Karen, a friend of mine asked if I would teach her daughter Laura how to quilt. Laura wanted to make a quilt for her cousin Lorenzo. Laura is homeschooled, so this was a bit of Home Economics.

Laura and I got together once a week and I taught her the basics.

She learned how to use a rotary cutter and measure with the mat and ruler...measure twice, cut once...

We used the Yellow Brick Road pattern, with a few changes. It is a really great pattern to use for a beginner!

Laura learned how to use a sewing machine.

The completed top and batting.

The backing ready to be tied.

All done!!

Great job Laura!!!

I love passing on a love for sewing and quilting.
Have a great day
Cindy

She is here!!

2011-08-27T12:19:00.000-04:00

We welcomed Cora Elizabeth Engelman last Friday morning very early!! She is so tiny, compared to mine who were all over 9 lbs. What an honor to be present at her birth!!

Gazing into Mommy's eyes

A great head of hair, she weighed in at 6 lbs. and 11 oz. what a little peanut!

I am still trying to find the words to express what it feels like to see your children having children. Sometimes I just marvel that it has been so many years since I was in their situation. What a miracle birth is, what a miracle watching your children bearing children. Awe and wonder and pride seeing my daughters rise to the awesome task of birth, and watching them mother their own children. I am so thankful to God for giving me such wonderful children.

I am loving being a Grandmother!! Loving watching my daughters be Moms!! Loving watching my Grandchildren growing up.

Sophia is growing up and she and Cora are the best granddaughters ever!!

Baby's Coming Soon!!

2011-08-19T04:00:00.003-04:00

It has been a busy week here, trying to get my daughter Rachel's baby bedding done, cause this baby is coming soon!!!

Today I finished the curtains, I did not take a picture of them because they are just a rectangle of fabric with some ribbon trim. When they are hung and the room is complete I will post some pictures along with some of "Baby E".

The Quilt top is done.

I am pretty happy with the way it turned out. I sort of made it up as I went along, Log Cabin style, with a center that was not a square. It was fun to be random, I am usually so afraid to stray from a pattern.

The pieces for the bumper pad are all cut, that is the next project.

Baby E may arrive before this gets done though...

While I was outside taking pictures of the quilt I got some of the flowers on my deck.

Enjoy today!!

Cindy

Peaches!

2011-08-08T11:32:00.000-04:00

This weekend we went peach picking at Butternut Farm, not far from our house here in New Hampshire and right across the street from my father-in-laws home (which used to be one of the largest chicken farms in New Hampshire, back in the day when my husband's grandfather was a chicken farmer). Every time we head across Poor Farm Road towards Meaderboro Road it seems as if we pass from our modern lives into a world much older, much slower and much more in touch with the land. It makes me want to be a farmer. But I am thankful that the Burnaps of Butternut Farm are doing all the work and we get to enjoy the fruits of their labor.

We met Grandma and Grandpa there and thoroughly enjoyed walking through the orchard and searching for the ripest peaches. And now, we have fuzzy, fresh peaches sitting on our kitchen table, juicy and delicious waiting to be devoured!

Puppy in hand, ready to pick!

The view is best from Daddy's shoulders.

Peaches for breakfast!

They won't be there for long!

If you live in the area, be sure to get up to Butternut for some amazing pick your own fruit.

--Sarah

A Legacy in Fabric

2011-08-04T04:00:00.004-04:00

I was recently cleaning out a cupboard in my bedroom and I came across a bin of fabric I forgot I had. Not just any fabric, but, fabric from my Grandmother's stash.

My Grandma was a seamstress, crafter, and quiltmaker. When she passed away my mom and aunt boxed up all of her stash and a few unfinished items and sent them to me. I went through it all and boxed it up and put it in storage. Finding this bin reminds me of her, and I hope to make some things for my grandchildren from these fabrics.

Most of the fabrics are small pieces that have "fussy cut" bits cut out. She would take those fussy cut pieces and applique them to the baby clothes or aprons or other items she made. They are mostly poly/cotton, but there are some that seem like percale and twill.

Don't you love these frogs.

Wild clowns and airplanes

I have clothes she made for me when I was a baby, a quilt she made for my wedding present, and a bin that has several quilt tops in various stages and made from various types of fabric. I will post about those sometime soon.

I think about what will I leave behind for my daughters, I hope a legacy of sewing and quilting, and maybe a bin or two of fabric...

Cindy

The Lake is Calm

2011-07-29T04:00:00.002-04:00

Tonight as I sit on the porch the lake is calm, it has been calm all day. Really the first day the wind has been calm since we came. I can see the loons out on the lake, even though they are far away you can spot them. I wish they would begin their night call, it is so etherial, makes me feel like I am in the wilderness...

We have had a great week, the kids have all come and gone and we are alone. We are usually surrounded with family here, so being here alone is a strange feeling. Our last day is tomorrow, I really don't want to go home, this place is so relaxing, peaceful.

The big project this week, besides sewing was painting the back porch. the kids all pitched in with the scrapping and priming and John and I painted.

Sky blue ceiling, porch ceiling's should always be sky blue, right!!!

All back together and clean and fresh.

Have a great weekend.

Cindy

Life is good today

2011-07-23T20:21:00.000-04:00

We have had our fill of pizza and beer and are sitting on the porch, watching the sun set and feeling the breeze on our faces. It has been a fun week. Most of the kids are leaving tomorrow, we (my husband and I ) still have a week to go. It is amazing what a week at the lake does for ones soul, calming, relaxing.

Here are some of the highlights.

The blocks are coming along, will work more on them next week.

Today was the parade for the 60th anniversary of the Caroga Lake Fire Department.

We had fun watching all the fire trucks and enjoyed the candy that was thrown.

Hope you are all having a wonderful weekend.

Cindy

VACATION!!

2011-07-18T04:00:00.019-04:00

Since the early 1930's my husband's family has owned a cottage (camp) on a small lake in the Adirondacks. I started coming here when we were dating and we have come here every year since, that is about 36 years...oh makes me sound old! Our children have grown up coming here and love it here. It is the highlight of our summer. As the kids have gotten older they are rarely here all together. This summer is no exception. But, we do have three out of four of the kids and their spouses and our granddaughter coming.

My husband and I are here for two weeks, it has been many years since we have been able to do that. The kids will come and go.

We become porch potatoes with this as our view, the breeze in our faces. I think I become mesmerized by the beauty of the lake.

The sunsets are fantastic, watching the sun sink behind the hills, listening to the voices across the lake, as the breeze dies down, and day drifts to evening.

My husband and I came by ourselves yesterday, first time in about 30 years... Our car was packed to the gills, he even asked me if we were moving. I brought my sewing machine and the fabric for Baby E's (#2 grandchild) quilt and bedding.

The fabrics.

I knew there was an iron and ironing board out here just was not sure what kind of shape they were in. The iron is basic and works great, and the ironing board is just that a wooden board. with padding and a cover. Vintage to say the least!

I wonder if the National Washboard Company is still around? I have a washboard hanging in my laundry room at home made by them.

My work space for the next two weeks is the back porch. When it is not filled with people eating.

More posts from VaCa land coming... this is a picture I took last year very early in the morning. The water was so calm, like glass.

Relaxing,

Cindy

Dress the Nest: Rachel's Nest and Bird Themed Shower

2011-07-14T06:00:00.004-04:00

Hi! It's Sarah, here. And I'm back to share a little bit of my sister, Rachel's baby shower with you. A few Saturday's ago we celebrated her and her little baby-bump with a shower we called: "Dress the Nest." I used all found materials to create the decor: cardboard, scraps of fabric, left over binding tape, paint chip samples and more. The only thing I purchased were the fresh flowers, which came straight from the grocery store and were very reasonably priced.
Here'a a look at the invite:

I've blocked out the address so you all don't show up at her front door:-P

Here's a look at my parents house, all decked out:

These letters are cut out from cardboard: dressed up with yard, fabric and mod podge and paint.

The mantel with the bunting from scraps and left over binding tape.

These little birds were cut from paint chip samples, free from the local home store. To make the template I used the bird graphic from the invite and just increased the size, printed it and made a tracing template.

The buffet centerpiece.

I put the book pages in the centerpiece to echo the library/book theme that was also a part of Rachel's shower. In the invitation we asked guests to bring their favorite children's book as a gift to Rachel, to help her build her children's book collection. We had a separate table set aside for the books:

I cut about thirty little birds and scattered them throughout the house in different places. It created a nice affect and solidified the whole theme.

The guests of honor.

Fresh flowers are a MUST for any party! These flowers came from the grocery store. I selected colors that fit the 'yellow and gray' palate.

The shower started at 10am and we served brunch. Here are a few of the items we served that corresponded with the theme:

Bacon Egg Nests

Cupcake Nests.

My beautiful sister and her beautiful belly.

Sophia, loving her baby and waiting for her baby cousin!

Helping Auntie Rachel open presents.

Breaking in the bathtub for her cousin.

If you interested in more details about this low-budget decor be sure to email us your questions or post them in the comments.

--Sarah

Sophia's Bedding

2011-07-11T04:00:00.002-04:00

I realized in all this time blogging and talking about Sophia's bedding that I have never actually blogged about it. So here goes...

Sarah wanted to go non-traditional, she loves pinks, oranges and greens, and we found these wonderful fabrics at a few local fabric shops. Crib skirt, bumper and quilt.

This was our inspiration fabric, Alexander Henry's Mocca. The main fabric in the bumper pad.

I made the bumper in four separate sections, I love all the pattern, really stimulating for little Sophia!!

The quilt

The Quilt front

The back

Sophia, seems to like the quilt!! The label on the back...making a quilt? ALWAYS put a label on it!!!! Someday, when memories fade, you will always know who made it, when it was made and who it was for.

Then there was the chair, this chair was very ugly, painted white and it had a really ugly orange covering the cushions, so Sarah painted it black to match the crib and I made slipcovers from the Mocca fabric. The fabric was decorator weight so will be sturdy.

So that is the inspiration and the start of Bumblebee and Sophie!

Coming soon, Grandbaby #2, here are Baby E's fabrics

See you soon,

Cindy

Aprons

2011-07-06T14:49:00.001-04:00

I have made several aprons in the last few months, they are quick and easy and make great gifts!!

The Scrabble apron was for my daughter Alissa's mom-in-law, (who is a good friend of mine). Alissa wondered when she would get an apron, something she did not get as a shower or wedding gift. More about the Scrabble apron here.

I had bought some fabric at Ikea a while back, without any plan...story of my fabric stash, and it was just the right fabric for Alissa. Not too frilly, but still feminine.

Ribbon makes great ties, quick and easy.

The lining was left over from Sophia's bedding.

Alissa's best friend Deborah is getting married in a few weeks, and I made her an apron for a shower gift. She loves blue. Her response, "I was hoping you would make me an apron, but I didn't know how to hint." I love it when that happens.

Deborah's Shower

And I couldn't resist; Debs' Mom, Sue (in blue), next to me, and all the other ladies and Debs' Dad helped make this quilt for a wedding present. Isn't it beautiful!!!

Stay tuned for an apron tutorial coming soon!!

Cindy

Let the Vacations begin!

2011-06-22T19:30:00.001-04:00

We (my husband John and I) are doing a lot of traveling this summer. Not usual for us, but, I will take it!! I love to travel. See other parts of the country and world, how people live and where they shop... I think I have realized most places are a lot like around little old New Hampshire.

My husband had a trade show to attend, in Vancouver, British Columbia, he thought it would be a great idea for me to join him. I thought so too!!!! He left early on Tuesday, and I followed on Wednesday. The Trade show lasted till Thursday afternoon. Which meant I got to wander around Vancouver for the day!

Here are some photos of my wanderings.

The bridge from Vancouver proper to Granville Island

I wish I could shop here every week!!

A short water taxi ride to another part of Vancouver

I told hubs this would make a nice birthday present!! Fun to dream...

When the trade show was over we were off to a "secret" location... I did not know where we were going to spend the rest of the 4 days??? We drove to the ferry and ended up here.

A 20 minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay.

We had a cute, cute studio, a short walk from water, town, and trails for hiking. PERFECT!!!

The scenery was stunning to say the least!!

Beaches "littered" with driftwood, huge logs, trees... amazing!

This is a log! Too bad for the helmet hair, we were on bikes. Oh did I mention the HILLS!

Bald Eagles

Took me a while to set up this shot, he is so patient!!

The base of a burned out tree, absolutely HUGE!!!

Really cute tug boats

Sailboat races

Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful!!!

Cindy

Where O Where...

2011-06-15T20:26:00.000-04:00

Most of you are probably wondering where I have been in the last couple of weeks... busy...traveling and making some custom orders. Just want to give you a peek at what I have been doing and hopefully will blog more about my adventures in the coming weeks.

More aprons

and boy rompers

a sewing machine cover

Visiting Vancouver, British Columbia

Oh and I started the patternmaking course over at Whipstitch, and I am already behind...

Hope you are well, be back soon.

Cindy

Weekend Babysitting Fun

2011-05-29T20:47:00.001-04:00

We now have all four of our children married. And lucky for us they all live close by!! Sophia our granddaughter and her mommy and daddy live close enough that I get to babysit once a week, which I love.

This week summer arrived with a bang... It was 86 on Thursday, last week it was 56... go figure.

So we got out the little pool and filled it with water. Oh such fun!!!

The water was a bit chilly right out of the hose. She didn't seem to mind.

I am not sure I can describe the feeling I get when I look at her, my granddaughter, my daughter's daughter...it is almost a rub your eyes am I really seeing this feeling. It seems that not that long ago her mommy was this age. I really am not THAT old am I...I don't feel it. But oh what a JOY!!

This weekend, Sarah and Danielle ran another marathon, this time in Burlington, Vermont. The hubbys went with them and they were staying the whole weekend. Lucky for us we got to have Sophia for the whole weekend!!!!

What a munchkin!!! Thanks to my friend Debbie at Deborah Zoe Photo who gave me some great answers to questions about my camera and shooting a moving target... I think I got some good shots.

Auntie Alissa came for a visit, she and her new husband just live a few blocks away, another blessing!!

They are so beautiful.

I think Grandpa and I will be exhausted by the end of the weekend, but an oh so nice kind of tired!!

Have a happy Memorial Day!

Cindy

Oh What a deal!!!

2011-05-19T21:21:00.002-04:00

I have been looking for a small sewing machine. My monthly quilt group rotates houses and I am always nervous carting my Viking around, it is heavy and if I drop it, yikes, it would be, well, very very sad!!!

A few of the ladies in my quilt group have a Janome Jem Gold. I have looked at the local sewing stores and on line and the least expensive that I found it was $199.00.

I had made a trip to my local sewing machine store because I needed some bobbins for my Viking. They carry the Janome line and had the Jem Gold 3, the new model, I was asking the sales person about the machine, their cost was $249. She mentioned they had a used one, someone returned in an upgrade. The former owner had it only a few months.

The price of the used machine was $149....whoo hoo!!! It only took me a second to ponder, and say "I'll take it."

So I am now the proud owner of my own Jem Gold 3!!!

It will be useful for top stitching, it really has a very nice stitch, and I won't have to spend so much time changing thread.

And it is so portable, I will even take it on our two week vacation to the lake this summer!

I love a good deal!!!

Cindy

Boy O Boy

2011-05-15T20:37:00.004-04:00

More often than not when we are at a craft fair or I am talking to someone about our business they ask if we make clothing for boys. Until now I have had to say sorry no we don't. I began to wonder maybe I should be venturing into boy items. It seems that all the Momma's around here are having boys.
So when the custom order came in for a boy outfit, it seemed that it was time.

It was fun shopping for boy fabric, there are such cute fabrics out there!!

Here is what I made.

I love the elephants

Bumblebee and Sophie's new adventure, Boy Oh Boy!!!!!! Let me know if you would like to custom order a boy outfit. I will be featuring some new items soon and posting some items at our Etsy shop. Keep on the lookout!!!

Cindy

Scrap Pillow Cover

2011-05-09T09:48:00.003-04:00

Sarah, here. How are you all? It's been a while since I've posted a blog. Life's been filled with lots of busy things: like work and running and selling our house in Arizona and a growing toddler and every once and a while the chance to sew.

Last week I had a free evening, and after putting Sophia to bed, started making this scrap pillow cover. I sat at my sewing table listening to a book on tape, letting my mind wander as I randomly pieced together fabrics from my scrap bucket. It was perfectly relaxing:-)

After I'd pieced together a fairly large square/rectangle, I used my rotary cutter to cut it down to a 21" square. I used white fabric to back it and made a 20x20 pillow.

Couldn't get a smile out of this little grump this morning.

--Sarah

Sew Can Do Party

Sumos Sweet Stuff

My blog spot

2011-05-08T17:27:00.000-04:00

The Blog Guidebook is having a "Where is your blogsopt linky party", so I thought I might join in.

Blogging is really very new to me. Last summer, Sarah, my daughter and I started a business making little girl clothing and accessories. I had made my new Granddaughter Sophia a quilt and other bedding, and covered an old armchair for the nursery.

It came out well and we started exploring the idea of a business. I have sewn since I was 10 years old, had wanted to make items to sell but was stumped as to how to go about the whole process. Sarah (my daughter was rather savy in the computer and business side of things, so she took over that part and I began sewing. We wanted also to share our day to day lives as well as the items we were making for sale. Sarah was the main blogger at first, I was a bit scared of the whole process. But, over time I have gotten more brave and ventured out in the blogging world.

Where do I like to blog? Usually somewhere comfortable. My living room mostly, it is a comfortable place to be.

Sometimes I will blog in my sewing room, but often there are too many projects screaming to be done.

When the weather gets warmer I think I will move out to the deck, I love my private backyard, the birds and the green are a nice place to be, rather inspiring.

It is a little more green now than this picture shows. When it is summer and the leaves are out fully it is a real haven.

I really have come to enjoy blogging, I love to share the projects I am working on, and it also motivates me to keep creating and sewing. It gives me joy when someone comments on a blog, or an item that I have made! I have enjoyed coming in contact with new people in the blogging world. It has been exciting reading blogs from people all over the world, seeing the wonderful creativity of so many. I hope someday to meet some of these creative folks face to face.

Have a great day,
Cindy

Sewing Machine Cover

2011-05-06T16:39:00.001-04:00

Not too long ago I posted about the cover I made for my sewing machine. You can find that post here.
Quilting is one of my loves!!

So I made another one.

This one is going up on Etsy next week so check it out.

I will also be happy to make custom orders for you... just let me know.

This fits my Viking Lily.

Cindy

Thrifty Organization

2011-04-27T20:47:00.002-04:00

When I was a young girl my parents gave me a jewelry box, this box served me well for many years. But as my earring collection grew everything just seemed a jumbled mess.

My old box

A friend of mine gave me this idea. Just recently I dressed it up a bit.

A plastic 3 drawer bin, and some ice cube trays.

Paint made specifically for plastic.

The top had an indentation so I cut a piece of cardboard to fit the indentation.

Using spray adhesive I attached some cotton batting.

Picked out some fabric that matched my bedroom colors.

And with the spray adhesive added the fabric.

Then fill the ice cube trays with earrings and put them into the drawers.

A very organized jewelry box!! And not very costly!!

Cindy

Scrabble Fabric Apron

2011-04-23T16:34:00.002-04:00

When I saw the Scrabble fabric at the quilt shop last week I could not resist. Lissie my friend and fellow mother in law (my daughter is married to her son), ~~loves~~ I mean LOVES Scrabble and word games. She is also really good at them...I am not.

I knew I needed to make something for her out of this fabric. An apron was my choice. Really simple and lots of fun to make.

The fabric at the top of the picture is a batik I picked up at a yard sale for $2.00. Did I mention Lissie loves yard sales too, she mostly looks for scrabble games to use the tiles to make other word games...she is very clever!

Finished product

   Happy Scrabbling and cooking Lissie!!

   Have a Blessed Easter everyone!

   Cindy

Fabric Store Field Trip

2011-04-20T13:36:00.000-04:00

Last week my friend Sue and I drove to Concord, NH to Peggy Ann's Quilt Shop. I really was not in the market for anything in particular, just fabric. I have given away much of my huge stash, mostly because I really am not into the "country" color scheme anymore. Soooo, I have lots of room for more fabric!

My finds:

Love this bumblebee ribbon! Just need inspiration for what to put it on! Any ideas??

These are fun!!

I have a friend who loves Scrabble, I have a plan for these... Stay tuned for the reveal.

These Amy Butler fabrics were half price!!! Love a sale!!! I want to make a bag.

It was fun to actually go to a shop and buy fabric. We have been ordering from Hawthorne Threads lately, I love their selection and great prices and really fast service!!! I will be ordering again soon when my daughter Rachel picks out the fabrics for the bedding and quilt for her little one on the way! I love being a Grandma!!

Have a super blessed day and stay tuned for the Scrabble fabric reveal!

Cindy

The Joy of Firsts

2011-04-16T10:37:00.000-04:00

As a parent one of the greatest joys in child-raising are the firsts. That first smile, the first steps, first words, move on to momentous occasions; your son's first touchdown, their first pair of point shoes, making the varsity basketball team, graduations...weddings and grandchildren.

Just wanted to share a new first with you. My daughter Sarah (Sophie's Mom) and my daughter-in-law Danielle will, on Monday, run the Boston Marathon.

Danielle and Sarah

For both Danielle and Sarah this will be the first time they will run Boston. And if you are familiar with the running scene, this is the coveted marathon! The race sold out in 8 hours.

For them this is a gift, they were invited to run and given numbers.

I am so blessed that this friendship has deepened between Sarah and Danielle, they are well matched running buddies and although they live an hour and a half apart they make dates to train and race together. What a joy you girls give me!!!

Their finish at the Eastern States 20 Miler a few weeks ago!!

You Girls Rock!!!

See you at the finish!!!!

Love, Mom

Spring in New Hampshire

2011-04-12T19:29:00.000-04:00

The last few days have been warm and somewhat sunny, the last of the snow piles in my yard are gone and it is even light enough at 5:30 AM to head outside for a run.

Did I (Cindy) mention I signed up for a sprint triathlon? More about that later...

My back yard, no snow and the grass is getting green!

The buds on the forsythia, I hope this year we get flowers.

The bleeding heart seems to double in size each day, need to cut back the phlox.

Proof of my green thumb, Dandelions are really pretty. And the first flower of the spring, at least in my yard.

Last weekend we were at at retreat at the base of Mount Monadnock. Beautiful!

Enjoy Spring!!

Cindy

New Stuff hitting the shop this week!

2011-04-04T07:56:00.000-04:00

New items from our spring and summer collection will be hitting our Etsy Shop this week! Keep your eye out!

The new "Abigail" in June Bug.

"Chelsey" in Pop Daisy.

"Dakota" in Green Damask.

Short-sleeve "Chelsey" in Pink Chandra.

Long-sleeve "Chelsey" in Blue Dot and Mod Multi Squares.

Short-sleeve "Chelsey" in Blue Chandra.

Giveaway Winner!

2011-03-31T04:00:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to Lyssa, who was randomly selected from the entries as the winner of a $40 gift certificate! Thank you to all of you who entered to win! Keep an eye out on our Etsy Shop, we'll be posting some of our new spring and summer collection there soon!

--Sarah

Trunk Show Highlights

2011-03-29T09:50:00.001-04:00

Here's a look at some of the dresses from the Trunk Show:

From Left to Right: "Dakota" Jumper in Green damask with pink ribbon and Wavy Pink Chevron. "Chelsey" Dress (with short sleeves) in Chandra in Pink and Tarika in Moss fabrics, with Wavy Pink Chevron ruffle detail on the sleeves. And Closest to the camera is our newest style, "Abigail" in June Bug and Black dot.

Don't forget to enter our GIVEAWAY! Check out yesterday's post for details on how you can win a $40 gift certificate! Giveaway is open 'till Wed. at 6pm EST.

--Sarah

GIVEAWAY!

2011-03-27T04:00:00.003-04:00

That's right it's our first giveaway and we're making it a good one! One lucky reader will receive a $40 gift certificate to our Etsy Shop or to put towards any custom orders!

Here's how to enter:

1. Post a comment below telling us which is your favorite item from our Collection.
2. Become a follower and mention this in your comment.
3. Like us on Facebook.

Entry for Giveaway closes on Wednesday March 30th at 6pm EST. The winner will be announced on Thursday March 31st. We will also contact you via email (please include your email in your comment if you don't have a profile/account).

--Sarah

Trunk Show Today!

2011-03-26T04:00:00.001-04:00

We're at The NEST Maternity and Baby in Porstmouth, NH today showing off our spring and summer collection. Come on down between 11am and 2pm to see us!

Five Friday Faves and Trunk Show Tomorrow!

2011-03-25T04:00:00.000-04:00

I found this blog this week and I totally LOVE it!

What I wore: A Personal Style Blog

I love this Spring Wreath from Embellish Life Everyday.

And this poppy pillow is so cute from Until Wednesday Calls. Check out her tutorial.

This dress from Tidbits is so cute too! Totally refashioned from old T-shirts.

And of course one of my faves is our Trunk Show Tomorrow! Be sure to stop by between 11am and 2pm at The NEST in Portsmouth, NH. Can't wait to see you all there!

--Sarah

Trunk Show Preview

2011-03-23T07:42:00.001-04:00

We thought we'd give you a little taste of our Spring and Summer collection. But to see everything, in all it's cuteness, you'll have to come down to the Trunk Show on Saturday!

Don't forget Saturday's Trunk Show at The NEST on Islington Street in Portsmouth, 11 am to 2pm!

--Sarah

Check out our Giveaway!

Fashion Inspiration

2011-03-22T09:37:00.001-04:00

Lately, I've been on a "I-care-about-fashion" kick, where I'm more thoughtful about what I choose to wear each day (as opposed to the jeans, t-shirt, sweatshirt outfit I normally reach for). I picked up the Wall Street Journal's review of New York's Fashion Week a couple weeks ago and it seemed one of the major trends (among MANY others) was neutrals and soft pinks, in billowy fabrics with a very feminine cut. I love the look. Mostly because it's girly, but understated and incredibly classy. I like that.

Here are a few pieces I've seen lately that I love, and would like to try to duplicate....I just need to find the time.

This dress was featured in Real Simple. The dress is by Elizabeth and James. So pretty! So expensive...

Super cute Tulle skirt. Club Monaco.

Cropped, skinny Khakis are in. These are Old Navy.

Not super flowy, but lovin' the highwaisted skirt. Club Monaco.

Love this asymmetrical necklace. Another Club Monaco.

What I love about this skirt is it is totally casual with flats, but easily dressed up with heels. Club Monaco...I guess I really like their collection right now.

This top is so casual but pretty. Three Dots.

THis dress is gorgeous and has such beautiful detail (hard to see in this picture, but it does). By Lela Rose.

This isn't pastel, but it's so cool! I love it!

So there's my inspiration for spring...just wish we had spring weather to wear it in. For those of you not living in New England, you're lucky. We got 4 inches of snow yesterday. The only consolation is that it will be melting soon!

--Sarah

When You're sick, Nothing Gets Done

2011-03-21T07:57:00.001-04:00

I left the house yesterday for the first time in four days (not counting the trip to Urgent Care). It felt good, except it was cold again. I missed all the nice 50-degee weather, thanks to an ear infection and a massive cold. Now that I've been on antibiotics and have been 'forced' to rest, I feel quite a bit better. However, all the things that normally would happen: like laundry and a clean house, oh yeah and the custom order I was supposed to ship Friday; all those things, did't get done.

But I'll share with you a picture of the little dress I'm working on for my friend's daughter (I did most of it before I got sick and haven't been able to finish it). It's very cute! My plan is to finish and ship it today (which means I'm ignoring the laundry that needs folding and the bathroom that is oh-so-dirty).

The Hem. Love that ric-rac detail! Obviously not sewn in place yet....that's the part I still have to finish.

Cute Little Pocket.

--Sarah

Don't Forget...Trunk Show in a Week!

2011-03-18T13:10:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to remind you all that our Trunk Show, featuring our spring and summer collection is just one short week away! Be sure to join us on Saturday March 26th from 11am to 2pm at the NEST Maternity and Baby in Portsmouth, NH.

Can't wait to see you all there! They'll be some refreshments and great door prizes too!

--Sarah

A Few New Things

2011-03-16T04:00:00.002-04:00

This week I made a few more burp cloth sets for various things, one of which is the auction at Childlight, the Montessori school where my sister, Rachel is a teacher. The beautiful striped and paisley ones are going to Childlight. The other set of light pinks and the striking black and white Kimono print are headed to Etsy!
(By the way. I think I need a new camera...mine won't focus anymore! Argh!)

--Sarah

Music Stand Gig Bag

2011-03-15T04:00:00.003-04:00

My husband is a musician, he leads worship in our church and often needs to carry his music stand to practices. He asked me to make a bag for it, nothing special he said... just a bag.

I pulled some "manly" looking fabric out of my stash. I measured the length and added several inches {sorry, I didn't write down the exact measurements} you need to add enough for the box end and the draw string top. I also measured around the widest part of the folded stand, and again added several inches, for seams and for extra room.

I added some pizzazz with a little piecing, no ordinary bag for my music man!

I put two button holes in for the draw cord. And folded over the edge for the casing for the drawstring.

I cut a lining the same size as the top and sewed the two together. Then folded it in half and serged the inside seam.

I boxed the bottom, oops, forgot to take pictures of that step...It is really simple to do, next time I will show you...

Here is the finished product! The "Music Man" loves it! Really "Fancy" he said. But, don't tell him it was really simple!!

Play on.

--Cindy

Spring!

2011-03-14T04:00:00.001-04:00

This weekend it broke through: Spring! The air felt just a bit warmer. The skies stayed lighter later. The snow banks receded further, turning frozen streams into gushing rivers. And of course the mud got sloppier and deeper. Spring in New England is really in a league of its own, known fondly as "Mud Season," it is as quirky as the locals who hate/love it so much.

Spring in New England is:

1) Dirt roads that turn to mud-soup
2) roads pocked with pot holes that seem to crop up in front of the car as you drive
3) rain that falls for days on end
4) snow banks that are a blackish hue, hardly recognizable as snow and are comprised mostly of sand
5) maple trees tapped for sap
6) baseball tryouts in the school gymnasium ('cause the field is still covered with snow)
7) college students "sunning" themselves on a muddy lawn
8) people in shorts and sandals because 40 degrees feels warm after a long winter of bone-chilling cold
9) what seems to be a sudden increase in population, as people decided to come out of their homes to feel the long absent sun on their faces
10) pancake house parking lots packed with people eager for their first taste of this years Maple Syrup

If you've never experienced Spring in New England you should. While it's no week in the Caribbean, the quirky local flavor is sure to be memorable.

Five Friday Faves

2011-03-11T04:00:00.000-05:00

We thought we'd try something new for Fridays: Five Friday Faves; a list of five things that have caught our eye over the course of the past week. This week is a collection of a few different things, and when I stepped back and looked at them they were mostly bright and fresh....hmmmm. I think I need Spring bad!

Kindle Jacket from Smile Monsters

I don't have a Kindle, but if I did I'd want this cover for it. I love the blanket stitch detail and the poppy-like rosettes. Supter Cute!

Green Table from Impatiently Praying for Patience

I L.O.V.E. this table. That green is amazing!

Dr. Seuss Book Bag from Living with Punks

This book bag is super cute. I love how it alludes to Dr. Seuss without being too literal (except for the lining, but that's cute too!).

Bouquet from Style Me Pretty.

This bouquet is so gorgeous, soft and I love the tule wrap around the stems! Beautiful!

And of course...(of course...haha) yellow nail polish! I painted my nails today in this color and I love it. So cheerful in such a dreary season (for those of you who don't know, New England has "Mud Season," not Spring.)

What faves do you have for the week? Link them up in your comments:-)

--Sarah