Plush-a-holic

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MEMPHIS!!!!

2011-09-05T21:16:00.000-07:00

ot

I can hardly believe that 10 years ago...tomorrow this amazing girl came into our lives. She is pure magic!!!
She lives in her own head a lot and we think that's amazing...she is so creative, caring and a joy to have in our lives. She was always a bit shy and watched people intently. She has loved to draw/color in and create ever since she could hold a crayon. She has had a flair for dressing and loves to be in costume. She loves to explore the outdoors and has been know to document the comings and goings of all the animals that have spent time in our yard/apartment courtyard. She is very cautious and caring. When she was about 3 years old she told us she wanted to be an Architect and a Children's book illustrator. She also said she never wanted to move out and she would one day build us a house (at the time we lived in an apartment) that was big enough for all 3 of us and we could live together for all the days of our lives. Her love for books has always been big and she adores all animals. When she was in first grade a girl that was older than her and she had never met punched her in the face. She did not want to make a scene so she held her tears in. At the time she had about 3 capes I had made for her and she would wear them on the weekends when we would go places. She loved that it made her get noticed and she felt special. Well the day after she was punched in the face she started wearing them to school. Her teacher Mr. P (who we LOVE) said it was okay and she has worn a cape everyday since. She now has 20 something... She loves friendly monsters and making up stories about them and her rock collection is fierce. For the first 7 years of her life she was an only child...and then 5 month before she was 8 along came Mr. Soren. She was instantly a very proud and loving sister and it changed her so much. She had a very strong sense of pride and her confidence really grew. She was my first baby, the first light of my life and her Poppy and I adore her. There is so much more I could share but for now I will just wish her a Happy BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!
We love you Memphis!!!!

OMG....I dropped of the earth....sorry

2011-08-20T19:08:00.001-07:00

Effie the Robin Love=Creature is the giveaway item over at Frecklewonder...you have until Sunday night...so go enter to win...what are you waiting for???

Hey there....over on Frecklewonder...an amazing blog by my friend Jenny....I am being featured and I am doing a giveaway on her blog for one of my robins.....Sorry that I have been gone so long but summer has made me crazy and before that our new home...aaaahhhh I have so much to share and promise to be back so much more....until then head over to Frecklewonder and entry to win Effie the Robin!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Also stop by Jenny's shop and check it out!!!!!!!! Her shop is amazing!!!!!She also has a shop for the kiddos!!!

Long time no blog....ooops time for some ETSY LOVE

2011-04-28T17:11:00.000-07:00

SwellPapel....I heart triangles....totally in LOVE with them

CathyMcMurray.....xoxo

AAliciaAccessories...xo

Lizarendina...in love with these

Sweetpoppycat....so so so good

ColeGerst....

Super cute from Agatatje over at Etsy

Hey there...been busy living....lots of stuff going on.

Our little one turned 3 in April!!!
Easter happened!!!
Family stuff....
some sewing...
sorry...for my absence but all is not lost
as I return with
more ETSY love...

Happy Thursday!!

Etsy Thursday.....so much to WAAAAANT

2011-03-24T15:05:00.000-07:00

This was almost Soren's name...it was neck and neck and he was
just mere seconds from Being named Oslo...The Vintage Cabin

So pretty...ColeGerst

So missed out on this...Virginiaotten

Love SockMonkeys....Peanutbutterdynamite

Pepperstitches....saw this awhile back...love it

BlueflowerVintage aaaahhh

Such a cool idea...we love rocks over here...in fact my husband and Daughter have so many
I have kicked them outside...the rocks that is...
ShebbooDesign

Ohhhhh the pain of it allllll....I LOVE LOVE LOVE this coat
VimVigorVintage
In my pretend life I am walking around downtown Seattle in this coat right now

Going to sew some Robins tonight and a few capes.
Very tired
Nice outside
About to go pick up Memphis from school
Soren is still asleep
Hate to wake him up.
Ran errands today
Did laundry
cleaned house
played
made lunch
did dishes
rested a bit
Happy Thursday
It's funny...I find thing on Etsy and then it's so hard to share because I really want to buy them all.
Sharing is better.
Buying takes $$$

Here come the Chickens.....................shop update!!

2011-03-22T00:16:00.000-07:00

A long time ago I made some chickens...and now they are back.
Just in time for Easter.....
Go and check them out...
thanks for stopping by :)

EASTER IS COMING....SOOOO here come the JACKS...Shop UDATE!!!!

2011-03-17T19:03:00.000-07:00

Finally!!!
A shop update...just in time for Easter.
I plan on adding even more...this time in the form of chickens. I have not made them for
a long time and I am excited.
Life has been full but I am finally finding some moments to sew.
Happy Thursday to all and if you happen to need a Jack Rabbit now you know where to look for one :)

Things that make me smile and I can't stop thinking about

2011-03-16T17:15:00.001-07:00

'Staring at the Moon'....by Lisa Congdon....I saw it in person at the show and if I could have bought it....it would be hanging in my house right now :)

Wow...fricdementol

So good....Kimslittlemonsters

needs more $$$ love this so much Hperl

United thread....whale love

OMG Mincingmockingbird

Tosya.....love this so much

I would love this for my bed....by Carson Too

Life is going good for my little family.
Trudging a long.
Weather has been very crazy.
Thunderstorm yesterday.
Very wet. Raining cats and dogs.
Loving all the space we have in our gorgeous home :)
Many problems with my extended family still going on.
Wearing me out.
Need to do something to make a change.
Maybe I will....
Hope everyone out there is fantastic.
xoxoxo

Stitch Face...I am a long time fan :)

2011-02-17T17:25:00.000-08:00

StitchFace.....

Taken straight from her profile....
Hi! My name is Danielle and and I make things I sell here at Stitchface!

I live in the big city of Toronto, Canada. I have a soft spot for all things cute and geeky and love to craft and create things that make people smile.

Love these by.....

2011-02-15T11:28:00.000-08:00

Presenting.....Contemori....over at Etsy of course....from Italy!!!!

A licorice wheel, a brightly smile, a gift under the bed, a protea in a red vase, a roguish look a black dot in a white sheet... this is me...

On Etsy i present you my softies series, handmade with my heart...

Love these....by Marianne Wille

2011-01-24T15:09:00.001-08:00

This guy is my fav.....

Stumbled across these about a week ago...wish it were mine....
check it out.
Long time no blog.
Bad me
Will be back more
Loads to share
trying to make
not feeling super
sick
of
being
sick
Happy Day

SHOP UPDATE....30 NEW ORNAMENTS...

2010-12-08T13:59:00.000-08:00

SHOP UPDATE TODAY!!!!!

With any luck another shop update will happen this Sunday :)

I went to the Mall

2010-11-18T12:21:00.000-08:00

All the above items are from Nordstrom's as are the images

So Soren and I went to the Mall...I have not been to the mall since summer time....why???
We are house poor...meaning we just bought a house in April and we don't have very much extra spending money. What I do spend is mostly on the kids these days and to tell you the truth most of our $$$$ not spent on the house is spent on food. Groceries have really hit us hard these days. We buy organic fruits and veggies and we buy all natural packaged foods. Yes I know they cost a bit more but I can't eat junk. It makes me feel awful and as it is I know I don't eat enough raw food. I eat a lot of veggies but fruits are harder for me. I only like them sometimes. I need to eliminate sugar (white processed sugar) entirely from my diet and I am working on it.
Anywho....
At the Mall I realized that there were a lot of really nice sweaters out there. You see I shop at Target a lot and I have forgotten that there is a whole world out there of really nice clothing items...also a lot of junk...but it had been awhile (as stated above) since I had let myself roam the racks at Nordstroms.
It left me feeling a bit defeated. I like nice things. I would love to have a wardrobe consisting of...
4 pairs of boots 3 tall one short
6 pairs of jeans I LOVE
3 pairs of cords I LOVE
12 coats I adore (have that)
4 pairs of sneakers...2 for just wearing and 2 for working out
12 pairs of nice workout bottoms
12 work out tops (ie sweatshirts)
4 long sleeved tees black with varying neck lines
4 short sleeved tees-black with varying neck lines
6 amazing blouses (tops that are not tees or sweaters)
6 great sweaters
of course 8 bras and a dozen undies
2 or 3 pairs of clogs
a couple comfy skirts
6 dresses that make me look amazing

That's what I would love and they would all me quality items. Basic, well made, comfortable, well fitted and simple.

I think I should print that out.
Because the problem AGAIN is Want VS Need.
WANT is always trying to WIN...while quiet little need gets neglected.

Most dangerous places for me to be shopping????
There are 4
TJ Maxx
Marshall's
Target
Nordstrom's Rack

I don't really like to work so hard for the deal but when you find it....it is like nothing else.
The dangerous part is that WANT wins out to often where bargains are concerned because if you don't get it then and there you know it will be gone when you next return.

aaaahhhhhhhhhhh
I am being consumed by consumerism....

Soren did have fun running through the Mall and we had a great snack.
Happy Thursday to all

Look What I found

2010-11-17T11:25:00.000-08:00

These are from the Nonsense Institute.....via Etsy.

I just love them and it's funny I have always wanted to do something with feather and felt like this. My idea was a bit different but I love these guys and the glasses.
Go and check them out.....

I have admired the work of MisCia for a LONG time

2010-11-04T09:58:00.000-07:00

I think the work of Mis Cia is amazing and I would LOVE to own a doll someday.
Here are a few of my favs....
I can't find a shop anywhere that has things currently for sale....but maybe someday.
Happy Thursday to all.
Hey...did anyone catch America's Next Top Model last night?
I sure hope Ann wins now...she is so amazing.

Sia....buttons

2010-11-03T16:26:00.000-07:00

This video is soooooo cool.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JhW1Spd4GlE&feature=player_embedded

Tumblr

2010-11-02T19:21:00.000-07:00

http://www.musicphilosophy.co.uk/#304842/Pink-Floyd

So I started up on Tumblr
www.Dawnheartstufftumblr.com
check it out soon. It's just a place to share stuff you really like or that inspires you.

I was thinking yesterday.
Learning to love YOUR life...the way it is
There's always MORE to want and think we NEED...but do we?
Everywhere you look everywhere you go there are things that you think you need or want...stuff and more stuff.
You go on the internet and look at beautiful houses...
you see gorgeous furniture...
light fixtures...
you click over to Nordstrom's sight
you see amazing shoes...
goregeous dresses
then you head over to Flickr and are
taken a back by all the beauty
all the handmade goodness
You go run errands and stare at Pillow Pets that make your 2 year old son Squeal with delight!!
You take a trip out to the movies and see all the cute couples
dressed up...so young...so hip and now.
You remember times you were so alive and so so young.
You see photos into other people's lives
and you sometimes think
man
they have a beautiful
life
and you become inspired
you feel
full of life
You think about your family and
all you
are lucky to have
and
you realize...
it's
enough
You have enough....
until you want
MORE
and when more
comes
Knocking...do you give in?
Will more enhance what you already have?
Will more consume you?
How do you deal with MORE?
Really How do YOU?

A moment in time....

2010-11-01T14:48:00.001-07:00

I pick up the phone and dial....
Bill "Hello"
Dawn "Hey Bill, do you have a minute, I know you are at work"
Bill "Yes, I have a minute"
Dawn "Thanksgiving and Christmas are coming up and I was just wondering if there was any chance we could see you guys?"

(No hesitation at all...)

Bill "I think I'll just pass"
Dawn "Okay...have a nice day"
Bill " Yeah"

I know I was taking a chance calling but I was not prepared for the coldness or the absolute lack of kindness that I rec'd.

I know I will get past this but for now I am making a written memory of this event so that I will know it really did happen and I will try...really try this time not to call again.
I have a beautiful family and we are very good people inside and out.
I miss my brother Bill...I do.

How to be alone....

2010-10-30T17:45:00.000-07:00

I found this on You Tube....
I struggle with being a lone all the time.
Being a full time care giver can be lonely at times.......

How to be alone

Flicker Favs....

2010-10-30T17:08:00.000-07:00

1. Untitled, 2. Untitled, 3. Ninon Exclusive- Sold, 4. Untitled, 5. liberated log cabin pillow, 6. March Hares & Winner Announced, 7. DSC_0785, 8. pumpkin family, 9. bro-bots..., 10. week eighty-six, 11. tiles, 12. yet to come, 13. Untitled, 14. she had her reasons, 15. wearables, 16. heidi's ghost cozies project, 17. bluesnow print shift dress back, 18. Untitled, 19. coraçãozinho de merda, 20. DSC_0696, 21. ..., 22. Untitled, 23. red beard man, 24. rainbow eyes, 25. Untitled

I just wanted to say hello.
I just love flicker...when you play music and look at all your contacts photos...it feels like a movie sometimes....

aaaaahhhhhh

2010-10-01T16:30:00.000-07:00

aaaahhhhh it's Friday!!!! Hurray hurrah for Friday!!! I only wish I was going out on a date with my hottie husband...maybe Sunday. My Ma offered to babysit. :) So life is still going full tilt and I guess I was kidding myself to think it would ever slow down. I guess I have to slow down.
I have to just try and focus on what really matters and put my energy in places that it is really needed. We'll see. So far living in the moment is proving to be a very difficult thing to accomplish.
Let's see....things I need to do.
1. Sew more
2. Paint the basement...starting with my sewing studio.
yes I have a studio :)
3. Put some photo books together for the kids.
4. Organize my photos on my computer...ha ha
5. Get some photo projects going. ie do some cool photo shoots like I used to.
6. Join a Gym
7. Go to Bastyr
to work on a nutrition plan that helps me with all my issues....ie lactose intolerance....Sarcoidosis....sensitivity to sugars.....lack of energy....
8.Oh yeah...relax more ha ha

Happy weekending to all and to all a good night :) Halloween is coming.....

Girls who like to wear capes...PLUSH YOU 2010

2010-09-29T21:49:00.000-07:00

Lulu the Lovely Doll and her Kitty Cat Violet...from the Girls who like to wear capes series...one that was inspired by my Daughter...who actually wears a cape everyday...:)
This was done for PLUSH YOU 2010

Goldie the Lovely Doll and her Kitty Cat Gertie...for Plush You 2010

Fadra the Lovely Doll and her Kitty Cat Scribbles...for Plush YOU 2010

Goldie and Gertie for Plush You 2010

LuLu the Lovely Doll and her Kitty Cat Violet...Plush You 2010

I'm coming back from the dead and what a better way to get back my sewing mojo than to create some Lovely Dolls for PLUSH YOU 2010!!! I am so excited for this year's show. I think it's going to be amazing.
I actually went out to dinner with the Lovely Kristen...creator of Plush You and owner of Schmancy....last night. It was so nice to get out and we always have loads to talk about. I feel like I have know her my whole life. It's so nice to have amazing friends. I feel very lucky.
Anywho...I have a lot up my sleeve sewing wise...let's just hope I can pull it together. Between the move...the new house...managing the building...Jason's job...the new school for Memphis...and my two year old son...life is crazy....fun but crazy.
Also had some amazing out of town relatives come visit...more about that later. It was so fun.
Also am so thankful to those of you that left kinds words for me about my brother. I don't really see a light at the end of the tunnel but I have other family members and my own family so I will just focus on them right now. I truly love my brother and I just really hope that he will be in my life again someday.
The Lovely Dolls ....Girls who like to wear capes Plush You 2010 were so FUN to make and it got me inspired and believing in myself again. I just love how they turned out and truthfully I am thankful to be in the show. It is something I really needed right now.
Happy Wednesday people...anyone watch 'America's Next Top Model'? I did....loving it.

What we think we become

2010-09-15T15:03:00.000-07:00

Our summer went by in the blink of an eye. I was so busy keeping Memphis in touch with her old school chums...running off to the parks...driving back and forth...having many visitors...unpacking...settling in...playing in the kiddie pool...getting ready to start Memphis in a brand new school...making sure Soren got his naps...washing the car...cleaning the house and cleaning it again...decorating our first ever home...
It's a blur of madness and joy. We ended it with a 9th Birthday Party for Ms. Memphis...we rented a bouncy house...because we have a big back yard now...and about 20 of her friends and some of their parents stayed too and wow....I was shell shocked for a few days but it really went well. I seriously can not believe Halloween is right around the corner and that the days are getting shorter. I have also been reading up on Buddhism and finding that it really resonates with me...
which brings me to my next point. Long story short my brother and his wife have exited our lives. Many details left out, my niece left home at 17 to go and live with my cousin and my Ma and Dad helped with money a bit. She could not longer live there. I will not share details and I try not to ever get this personal but it continues on and on. Now my 65 year old mother is stressed out because my niece will be living with her now and going to community college. Her parents refuse to help her at all and I feel lost. He is my only sibling. I do not know how to handle it. So I have decided not to. Occasionally I will return an email and try not to say too much because when I have there is trouble. I am sent religious, specifically Christian emails but get very little other news from said brother/sister-in-law. So I guess the reason I am asking is...I have strong spiritual beliefs but they are not rooted in one religion. I have always tried very hard to be a kind person and when I have wronged someone I have tried to right it.
Lately I am trying to live in the moment. Trying to make all my reactions ones out of love and when I make a mistake I forgive myself for letting my emotions lead me down the wrong path.
I guess it might be time to realize I no longer have a brother as I have been rejected so many times. Oh life...why are you so hard sometimes?
Thank goodness for my own little family...they are my life and I guess that is what I must focus on now. :)

House wish list

2010-07-19T11:30:00.001-07:00

We need one of these for hubby's albums...vintage off of craig's list

Love this floor exactly how it is...want it

would be cool somewhere in our place by fermliving

totally WANT

Love these and want to paint it white

Someday a couch like this for basement...something like it if not the same one...from IKEA

So...the house is coming along...working working working.
Going to strip, buff, wax and polish the floors in the basement this weekend....then the painting will begin and boy is there a lot to paint.
Thinking about doing Grey/white/green in the family room....
downstairs bath...maybe a white with a faint tint?
Sewing room...omg I found a great greenish grey...very light and then the rest white?
Shop...white...stairwell grey...
omg how fun...
I will try and be better about before and after photos....:)
I also promise that sooooooooon my Etsy shop will get some new items and Natalie if you are still keeping tabs on me I am going to email you soooon and begin your special requests...also need to redo a trade that I sent to the WRONG address....sorry Jennifer :)

Soren's room

2010-07-18T16:22:00.001-07:00

Soren's crib wall done....have had this fabric forever and FINALLY hung it up.

Soren's shelf wall...finished

Kids in Memphis' room this morning playing train...Soren was putting on his hat his own way....

Almost done with Soren's room...just one more wall to finish but this weekend we FINALLY got the crib wall done. I have had that fabric forever and ever and finally Jason made a wood frame to stretch it on. It was hard because the fabric is not completely straight( I mean the print is a little wonky) but we are thrilled with how it turned out. The last wall to do is the wall to the right when you walk in his door. I want to hang a box shelf low and another cool display shelf I have above it and then his car print that I stretched with an Ikea fabric frame set. I love it....
Anywho...we will get to it soon enough....At least Memphis' room is done minus her desk she will one day have. Our room is a mystery to me. I have a great start but need to finish it up...hmmm
Today Jason is off working at the apartment building leaving me with both kids all day and I still have a cold. Touched up the kitchen paint. Made lunch...did dishes....cleaned up many messes...got everyone ready for the day....Soren napped...woke up ate and then we tried to go outside. Memphis had already been playing out on the deck all morning with her playmobil camper....and bunnies....
So we get out in the yard and Soren decides he wants his swimsuit on after all...so we put on his swimmie diaper and suit. All the while Memphis is standing in the kiddie pool looking sour. Then Soren decides he wants to fish in the pool...with his stick fishing pole and of course then Memphis decides she wants to run in and do canon balls...so she is stomping her feet telling Soren to move and he is saying 'Sissy fish now' and so it goes on this way for about 10 minutes or so and I finally step in and say you guys need to share. Memphis you could have done canon balls while he was getting dressed and Soren you have to share the pool with Sissy. So she decides to stomp her foot into the pool splashing Soren with a really big splash and he of course gets upset.
At this point I say that's it...everyone in the house for a time out.
Well...they are screaming upstairs but you know what...I have a basement now and I am just going to wait it out....
Happy Sunday to allllll!!!!

Summer time summer time sum sum summer time.....

2010-07-17T19:20:00.000-07:00

As promised...more photos of our new home....
First up...the upstairs bathroom...3 times as big as our old bathroom...not a huge bathroom but big to us....
It has a peach sink, tub, tile, and toilet.....it WAS also painted peach. We changed the wall and ceiling color to 'string of pearls' a white with the slightest hint of pink...It also has a laminate counter top that is a reddish pink color...so....I went with the Marimekko Unikko shower curtain. It was the only one that really went with the counter top color and I HAD to have a Marimekko shower curtain. Then I bought another print by Nosideup....and put the one I had up and the new one right above the toilet. Then I put my cool purple vase with my silver fake leaves in it and added a makeup mirror. It's not in our budget right now to change the vanity, mirror, tub, toilet, sink or tile. So we spruced it up and are very happy. We love all the built ins and storage space :) ....Happy Weekending all!!!!!!!!!!

I want I want I WANT...................

2010-07-11T19:35:00.000-07:00

Marimekko Puutarhurin Fabric...love

My Little Underground....so good

Jillbliss.com

By Seattle Show Posters...LOVE LOVE LOVE

So...we went to Urban Craft Uprising today...loads of great stuff to see. We are on a budget so it was a t-shirt for each kid and a GORGEOUS print from Jill Bliss....omg....and I got to meet her which was so great. She is super duper nice and I loved her prints so much. So now we will have her Elk on our wall sooooooon. I will take a photo to show. Also got to see Kristen ( of Schmancy) and Coco (of Softlife). Nice to see people...nice to be seen...nice to get out. Does'nt happen much these days....
I loved so many things but it was still fun to go and check things out.
It made me feel good about what I make and inspired me to make make make.
We also went in the kiddie pool, washed the car...yesterday got the oil changed.
Vacuumed.....did a butt load of laundry and relaxed in the sun....I am sorry to see the weekend go....
Happy Sunday all...I get to watch Entourage now....:)

2010-07-10T21:06:00.001-07:00

United States of Tara

Just started watching this last night and of course stayed up WAAAAAY too late watching more and more and more and more.
So good and so weird.....and I was feeling really good yesterday until we started watching it and I was all of a sudden doubting myself. Doubting my mothering skills and doubting the person I am. Not sure what you all are like but I am a person who constantly has to push myself out of my box. My box of comfort and it's hard. I have a hard time with social things. It never looks like I do but trust me I do. I prefer to nest...stay inside my house or yard and rest or get things done. I love to do house projects. I also love to shop for something specific. The thrill of the hunt...nothing better. But..... When you have kids you have to get together with parents to make play dates for your kids. Sometimes there are kids in your neighborhood that you can just let the kids go out and play with but where we lived that was not the case. Not sure about here yet but seems way more likely. So the play dates require that you contact the kids mother...usually and make a date to get together. Usually at your house our theirs. I know most of you know all this already but I don't assume everyone is a parent. So...for those of us with social difficulties this can be super hard. I am so proud of myself for stepping outside of my box so much these last few weeks. I have had tons of people over to our new house and trust me that's BIG. I actually have really enjoyed it....but it has also wiped me out. Don't know if any of you can relate but I hope so. I have so many boxes in my head that are hard to step out of and I have no idea how they all got there.
So...tonight I am raising my beer (Session) to all of you that have stepped outside of one of your boxes. Who knows maybe you only have one you lucky person. I on the other hand have many, many, many boxes to step out of.

Soren speak

2010-07-09T16:52:00.001-07:00

Soren smile....hids under his B.

26 months and counting.....

Hey everyone...it's Soren...me two. Me two. I am. I like Mama...I like sissy...I like Dada...I like Dodo (aka Gucci), I like Meme, I like Kat, I like Eleanor, I like Darcey, I like Hazel, I like Leo, I like Ruby, I like Maddy, I like Susan, MR P (Memphis' 2nd grade teacher)...you get the idea. He LOVES to tell us what he likes.
Me big kid. Me walk. Me want truck. Mama car. aaacha (means all done) Oh oh...all wet.
Super Boo...(his super persona) Me play cars...me play Sissy.
He loves trucks and he loves to scream FIRE TRUCK!!! He loves his B's. (blankets) He loves people and says hello to everyone we meet. He loves to say thank you and Sorry Mama...me too. He still takes a two hour nap and needs it. He is always on the go. Going up stairs by himself while I have a mini heart attack running after him. We went to the Point Defiance Zoo this week with good friends and there is a small aquarium and he threw Memphis' binoculars in the tank...they fished them out for us but... he is a mad man. He loves life and is almost always happy...except when he's not. Lucky for us he mostly is. He has a great sense of humor and he loves to make people laugh.
He now says...'Me funny. Make joke...and if you make a joke he does not like he will let you know...not funny joke Mama. He keeps us all on our toes and I can hardly remember what life was like without this amazing little man. We love you Soren...I lub you too Mama.

Home sweet home

2010-07-08T15:04:00.001-07:00

Take a look.....

Hey there....so here is a quick photo taken from the car on my way out...okay...so I need a better one...but at least you get the idea. Then there is a shot of our crazy but functional deck....and hey we have never ever had a deck before...ever....
So picture it more modern looking and picture the house a medium grey...with I think white trim? Picture all the kids toys put away...picture a privacy fence to block out the neighbors (who it just so happens are very nice :)) Also in the front picture some cool cement circles that will make up the walk way and I mean big and small and medium...taking up a lot of the grass area...we are now on 1/2 an acre so we don't need grass out front.
Okay now picture this taking a great deal of time and picture how happy we will be to work on our very own house...our home...omg I just love it.
Hope everyone is surviving the heat wave and thanks to all of you that stop by my little blog...I promise this time I really am back :)

Stayin Alive.............................

2010-07-07T20:32:00.000-07:00

Went to the zoo today...I love the polar bears and the walruses....omg

What is known as the GIANT light fixture room..aka Dinning room..
Must picture a bit of a bigger table...will be there someday

Mr Big shot

For Memphis' good pal that HATES Barbies...geezsee...there are cool Barbies...

So...we moved in...
We have been painting...
unpacking....
settling....
I drove Memphis to her old school and back everyday (roughly 80 miles a day)
We had to say good-bye to all the staff we LOVED...the parents and kids and it was SOOOOOO sad. I finally felt good there and Memphis was super bummed. I cried so much...
Okay...a bit of history...back story if you will..
In first grade Memphis was punched in the face in the lunch room by a girl that was older (never figured out who she was) and well the very next day Memphis wore one of the capes I made her to school. I emailed her teacher to make sure it was okay and he said that he thought everyone should wear a cape to school. So....I made him one...I made one for her Kindergarten teacher, the librarian, the PE teacher, the two fabulous ladies in the office, a first grade teacher Memphis had for after school art class and one for two Instructional assistants that were always amazing to Memphis....
Now her school was amazing...really....but the average income was sooooo much higher than ours and it made it tricky for me. So the first two years she went I tried to make friends...to volunteer to be involved but it never really took. I know it was mostly my fault...my baggage but the last year she was there I just didn't care about all that stuff so much and just focused on the folks I knew were nice and it was great. All of a sudden folks came to me...and everyone wanted a cape. Of course I make them as gifts to give to the kids that invite Memphis to Birthday parties and I think...I may have gotten her invited to a few...not sure but...
So leaving her school was not only hard for Memphis but me too. I am a full time care giver so the folks I liked at her school were MY DAILY world. The folks I chatted with daily and it was so nice. Now we are completely cut off from our old hood (that I lived in for 18 years) and it is soooooooooo weird. So weird.
So what I learned is...be yourself...be real (can't help that)...realize that you are sabotaging yourself sometimes...be giving...and it will come back full circle.

and now it's summer.
OMG
where is my life going?
Where????
I am LOVING our new house....LOVING it.
We have soooooooooooo much freakin' space I am in total shock...

I have so much more to share but for now I must go finish painting the kitchen.
I hope to be around here more....
hope to post photos of the house more....
hope to make it thru the summer...

To be who you really are...

2010-03-18T12:53:00.000-07:00

To be who you really are is all that you can be.
To think real thoughts that hold meaning
and that matter.
To love even when you don't want to.
To laugh when you want to cry.
To smile and really mean it.
To feel every moment and cherish the feeling(s).
To know you are not alone even when you are.
To love yourself for all you are
and
all you
are
not.

Happy Weekending!!!!

Just found

2010-03-14T11:36:00.000-07:00

Just found Kristina Klarin's work....I love the small necklaces because I actually feel I cold wear those and the more colorful ones are my fav. The bigger pieces are amazing...omg. I love them all. Just thought I would share. Happy Sunday to all...working hard....life is good. :) Twitter is fun...I mostly spectate( is that a word?) but I have tweeted a few tweets....

Hello there....

2010-03-12T16:16:00.000-08:00

This is SOOOOOO me...from Ashley G

So pretty...from Rubycquins

Must have... Jenniferramos

I can not stop looking at her shop...I want it ALLLLLL
from LilaJizo....amazing

Hey there...Hi there...I have been gone for far too long.
I have some great news but can't share right now...in fact...it will be awhile.
Life with two kids....love it...love it but oh so tired.
Our friend Robby visited us from Portland last weekend to help us out and to see the kids and us and it was so amazing. He is such a fantastic friend and this weekend he is coming back with his wife Kim...(also are super good friend) to help more and visit.
I wish I could elaborate...but I can not.
So...what else is new?
Well...I am in the process of sewing up as many Jack Rabbits as I can possible sew.
I am also trying to clean things out and organize my life.
Been super tired because Mr. Soren is not sleeping well..wakes up about 2 x's a night and he will be two years old next month...OMG!!!
How did that happen?????
He is so amazing, his vocabulary has tripled in the last month. He knows how to ask for what he wants/needs and he is not shy about it. He has a lot of amazing facial expressions and arm movements to go along with them. He is so excited to go pick up his Sissy everyday from school, he loves to walk and he is a snack a holic.
So...sorry to be gone so long.
xoxo
Happy Friday to all :)

Two Sarah's amazing prints

2010-02-20T08:59:00.001-08:00

I love these heads....in person they are even more amazing.

Stunning....

I heart bears and this one is just too good

The idea of talking to a lark intrigues me

While I was at Urban craft uprising this year I came across 'The Two Sarah's' booth and I was instantly in love. My Ma bought me a teeny tiny wood block with a head on it and I will cherish it always. I almost bought the heads print but I was supposed to be shopping for others so I took a card and I know someday soon...that head print will be mine...and The Bear and the Bride too.
I love the simplicity and honesty in this work. The gazes between the animals and women are intoxicating. I have also been a fan of collecting doll heads for sometime now....although in my clear the clutter frenzy I did let a bunch of my doll heads go...
Anywho...if you have never been to the 'Two Sarah's ' Etsy shop...you gotta go right now and check it out.
Here is the Bio from their Etsy profile....

Bio

If you are in Portland and would like to see more of my work, stop by Lark Press, located at 3901 N Williams. We're open Wednesday through Saturday from 11-6, and Sundays from 11-4. It's conveniently located next to Pix Patisserie, as well as near several other neighborhood gems. At Lark you can also see in person the lovely work of fellow Etsy sellers larkpress and bittersugar.

By the way, I am Sarah Landwehr, and the other Sarah (Fitzpatrick) is collaborating with me via Melbourne, Australia, so her presence on the site is currently more theoretical, but I'm still leaning on her glory and genius from way over here.

In other news....our little Soren has bronchitis and is feeling terrible. Memphis is still getting over her cold/virus and has a cough. Her hives/rash is getting better but she has cried numerous times telling me that people will think she is a freak...poor thing. No matter how many times I tell her she is beautiful she just goes over to the mirror and says...I look like a freak. I am still on the hunt for glasses. Life right now is very very busy but good. Things are about to get crazy....but that's okay.

The work of Patrick Winfield....is MAGICAL

2010-02-17T13:49:00.000-08:00

all the above images belong to Patrick Winfield and I am just using them here to share his work with you....

I just stumbled on the work of Patrick Winfield and I fell in love with this series so very much.
They are polaroid compositions and man are they amazing. I am in deep deep love with the top one up there...so so gorgeous. What inspires his vision....

He says:

Everything.

Life.

Death.

And all the stars in between.

You can find out more about him here...or go to his website...here

I for one am amazed by his genius and I especially love the use of color. WOW!!!

I would also like to take a moment to thank all of you that commented, read, thought about my last post. It really and truly means the WORLD to me to know that I am not alone and that it's okay to have a bad day...I mean I know it is...but you were all so kind to me....thanks so much !

On motherhood....sometimes a very thankless job

2010-02-12T12:39:00.000-08:00

So...on this blog I try to be upbeat. Not complain too much. Stay positive. You get the idea...well today I have to vent. Lately I feel like all I am doing is picking up toys, cleaning our home, walking the dog, doing home errands, driving Memphis to and from school, helping with homework, laundry...laundry...laundry....and I am not doing enough for me. I have not been able to sew much.
When I do have a chance it seems I am either ready for bed (exhausted) or I have to help with something else that is not my own. Like this week...Memphis was sick Monday and Tuesday...stayed home from school. She had a cold virus, slight fever and felt really crummy. This is the week of her Valentine's day party in her class and the week that she got to go to a Valentine's day party in the evening. It was a fund raiser event for the PTA and we signed her up. Her best buddy was there and it was last night...she had a blast....but she did not finish her Valentine's due to afore mentioned sickness and barely had time for her homework. (because if you miss two days you have two additional days to catch up on) They also made their Valentine's day bags at school one of the days she was out sick and she did not have time for that either. Seriously, when your kid is feeling bad she barely has time to do her homework and eat dinner. So I helped her with all the homework, I made the Valentines, I made the bag for the Valentines and a few of my evenings were eaten up. That's okay, I want to help...I do love her to pieces after all and it is my job as Super Mama to help with all the little things. The little things always turn out to be the very most important things in the universe.....and all this week Soren (will be 2 years old in April) was a total spitfire and a half. Yelling, getting mad when he does not get what he wants right now, wanting something every 20 seconds, trying to eat snacks all the time instead of meals, throwing toys at his sister, biting and basically destroying worlds...well ours anyway. So this morning while I was in the middle of my usual madness that is my morning...trying to get Memphis to school on time...I was showing her the Valentines and telling her to make sure not to crush them. She looks in the bag and says 'oh great! They are supposed to be in alphabetical order' and then she stamps her foot down a few times and walks off in a huff. My feelings were very hurt. Then we drop her off and we go to TJ Maxx to find a small Valentine's gift for hubby...and the entire time Soren was bonkers and in the end he was just yelling. He had already thrown all the snacks I had brought on the ground and drank the bottle I had with us. So on the way home...while he was endlessly screaming...I cried just a little....but kinda really deep sobs. He fell asleep before I cried. I know, I know much worse things are happening in the world and I am a very lucky person to have all I have but today...today is the day that I have every once in awhile. The kind of day that I just feel lost...like I have lost myself just a little. I love both my kids dearly but today...today I am having a bit of trouble. I know tomorrow will be better (especially since Jason will be home) but today seems endless and so I thought I would vent. Say in words...put it out there and maybe just maybe I would find myself again...Happy Weekending to all of you...and to all you Ma's out there I just want to tell you YOU ARE MARVELOUS, FANTASTIC, GORGEOUS and you are doing a great job so just hang in there with me!! There is strength in numbers you know :)!

Sewing again

2010-02-11T12:04:00.001-08:00

So
this morning...got up...husband was running late...juggled feeding Soren with making two beds, straightening crib, picking up many many many toys....books, hot wheels, trucks, balls...made breakfast for two kids....got one kid showered...hair brushed...hair done...helped with her hives (she broke out yesterday, poor thing) got Soren dressed, helped Memphis get dressed...all the while Mr. Soren is yelling for this and that and really getting mad....wrestled with Soren to get his shoes and socks and coat on....the entire time was a drill sergeant to keep things running on time (just barely) You see my Virgo daughter is not a morning person and does not care for the restraints of time...
oh yeah...did I mention that I also showered, blow dried my hair, flat ironed my hair put on my makeup, got dressed and brushed my teeth? All while doing most of the above?
finally
got out the door
got in the car
drove to school
dropped off daughter
then
off to Trader Joe's
where
Soren was a handful and very loud
got many looks
got rice, rice milk, Valentine chocolates and wine for Memphis' teacher, Joe's O's, salami for hubby, Sparkling water, Oyster crackers ( that Soren had to immediately eat from box...tried to stop this but the yelling won out) Tomato basil pasta sauce and one reusable bag (because of course I left all mine in the car)
Phew....oh no...I forgot to get quarters and I have to do laundry....
already in the elevator to parking garage...can't go back
in parking garage
Mr. Soren does not want to get in car
wait
grab screaming boy and into the car seat he goes
well
kind of
phew....
then
off to bank to get said quarters
where Soren is saying Hi to everyone and being crazy and then won't leave bank
again
grab screaming boy and put him in car seat with box of oyster crackers...yes the whole box.
Get home
get him to nap
phew....next
laundry time
How is your day going?

Looking back to that little family of 3....we used to be

2010-02-01T12:36:00.001-08:00

All of these photos were taken in July of 2007...almost 3 years ago. This was a time before Soren, when our little family was just 3. Looking back I miss the times we used to just get to spend doing what we wanted...before Kindergarten. It was really really nice. I do get to do that with Soren too but it's not the same. With Memphis there weren't any time restrictions really. We would wake up and just kind of roll with it. When we did have a plan to meet up with friends for a play date it was always later in the day. Memphis is NOT a morning person...she used to wake up every day at 8am or 8:30am. Those times were so much simpler and so less chaotic. She really was and (mostly) still is a dream kid. Looking back I think I was a really great Mom. She was happy most of the time anyway. :) Now our mister Soren is here and he is the joy in our lives right now. So carefree, so energetic, so funny...such a complete character in a much different way than Memphis was or is. We love him dearly, truly and madly but since he has arrived our VERY small space has become very hard to live in. I mean we are really making it work but lately...as he grows bigger and bigger we are all kind of going a bit crazy.(We live in approx 750 square feet) Sooooo the house hunt continues and I know that soon things will be better and I feel horrible for complaining at all because I am so very blessed in life. I was just thinking, that's all about a time that seems so long ago now and it brought a huge smile to my face just thinking about that little family of 3 and remembering back then how crazy being a parent was(HA....one kid compared to two is a cake walk really...at least for me looking back)...funny to look back and it's fantastic to have so many memories....also amazing how big our little girl is getting. Life really does go by in a blink of an eye and it's true that you really have to enjoy each and every day as much as you can. I guess I am feeling a big nostalgic today...thinking about our future and what lies ahead. As scared as I am to move...I am really excited for our family of 4 to have a bit more piece of mind and more room to grow. I really am so very very lucky and that's something I try to remember every single day. Happy Monday :)

Hello

2010-01-28T17:50:00.000-08:00

Let's see
I have been tired
so tired
can't seem to get my mojo back
where oh where did it go?
Oh that's right...I have a 21 month old child
and
it is
always
dark here
so...
things to share
look here this is so so cute
and here I LOVE this blog
and here Love this shop
Happy Thursday friends

January 7th 2010

2010-01-07T11:13:00.000-08:00

Memphis is home sick today

Want a version of this hair cut...since March 2009

Book we bought to share...Memphis and I... Sock Monkey

My Beautiful Birgit (I love her so much...made by Fanja/Le Train Fantôme) and a print Jason got me for X-mas by Cosas Minimas

So...
Memphis is home sick today...she threw up this morning and did not feel well when I picked her up from school yesterday...
Soren is napping right now.
Must get things done.
Not feeling too swell myself.
Went to bed much too late.
Chatting with hubby...
Really want to cut my hair like photo above and have ever since I saw it...
must grow bangs out.
Could do a version with long bangs.
Also thinking of changing the color a bit...looking for a tad more drama.
Maybe some brighter pieces of blond with more contrast pieces added in.
hmmmmm
Gloomy here AGAIN
have so many projects on my mind.
Mind is swimming with creativity
need the energy to match it
Saw 'Up In The Air' last weekend.
Was really good.
I love George Clooney
Waiting for the new season of Big Love to start...waiting...waiting...
Did you see that Jennifer of Cotton Monster is thinking about starting a line of animals?????
I am sooooooooooooooooooooo excited.
We are BIG fans over here.
Hope I don't miss it when and if she does it....
Did you see this....unreal
or this killing me with the cute!!!
Speaking of cute...check this out
and I have to say...losing Meg to Facebook was a super big bummer and Meg...if you can hear me....I MISS YOU!!! I miss your links to You tube...your great stories and your amazing art...
So Happy New Year to you Meg!!! and Happy New Year to all you bloggy folks :)

also...if you have not seen it yet check out Lisa's new collection blog...so so so great

Where to start........

2010-01-06T20:24:00.000-08:00

My Birthday is 12.12 and it has come and gone....but this cowl was from my Mama...she made it

1.1.2010
Memphis

Her collection grows

FINALLY....made a Blurb book

Oh Christmas tree....at Jason's Folks house

Christmas day Jason's folks house

Her Nutcracker....I love it

dotted window

Mr. Cutie Pie

She kept setting up stuff around the house

I WON this chain from Yokoo

So...where do I start...

December was so busy
Shopping
decorating
living
My Birthday came 12.12 and Jason and I went out to a movie...'Fantastic Mr. Fox'
It was amazing...also went shopping with my Ma all day. Loved it.
Got some great gifts and my Ma and I bought each other something.
We got her an amazing purse, Marc Jacobs!!!(T.J Maxx of course) I finally gave in and got some Emu boots for home usage(From My Mama)....and I LOVE THEM!!!! They are amazing!!!! So comfortable and they are only for inside as we do not wear shoes in our home.
My brother is mad at the family, long story, but he did not come to our traditional Christmas Eve gathering at my Ma's and there was a lot of drama to go with that...but I will spare you...I was sad a bit and even cried but that's how it is right now....
We had a blast on Winter break and Jason had 11 days off!!!! It was amazing...I got to shop alone...we went on a big light ride, saw Santa, did crafts, saw family and really enjoyed each other's company...mostly
but I had a mammogram and got called back the next day....I was in a HUGE panic and got the call while our friends from Oregon were visiting. It was soooooo scary....turns out I have a Cyst in my left breast and after the Ultra sound and second mammogram they said that I need to come back in 6 months to make sure it's just me....it was soooooo crazy and nobody told me that it is very typical to get called back after your first one because they have nothing to compare it to and don't know what your breast tissue looks like.
Hmmm
makes perfect sense but geeeeez
they could have told me.
Anywho....it was a very busy month and I survived another Holiday season and another Birthday although this year my Birthday was tough for me. I was kinda bummed out???
I have always loved my Birthday. Next year I better be getting a SURPRISE party...that's all I have to say!!
So 2010 here I come...
ready or not I am going to shine....xoxo

New to me......

2009-12-11T00:08:00.000-08:00

Just discovered this amazing shop and artist....
Wardomatic.....
Animator & illustrator living & breathing in the great NW. Originally from Atlanta, GA, moved out here to Portland to work for the Man. Now I'm on my own and loving it. Married to Andrea, with 2 kids: Ava & Ezra. (bio taken from his Etsy site)

Website: www.wardjenkins.com
Blog: wardomatic.blogspot.com
I love that a lot of his work is inspired by his daughter.
I love that it is happy
I love how colorful it is
I must have the top one....I love it so much.
My Birthday is this SATURDAY!!!
YIKES...how did that happen?
Going shopping with my Ma.
Then going out with the hubby for dinner/movie.
Or Dinner walking around...
not sure yet.
Working on my newest Plush creations....
Still finishing up a few special projects.
X-mas gifts in the making.
Oh and today was hat day at Memphis' school.
She wore her amazing Cotton Monster...Monster Head!!
She also wore the new golden cape that I made her with a triple lightening bolt.
She had a blast and had loads to tell me when I picked her up from her after school comic book illustration class :).
She's so awesome!!!
If I don't come back tomorrow...with my new plushies...have a wonderful weekend and wish me a happy birthday...I can use all the good wishes I can get :)

The Birds have flocked to my shop.....

2009-12-03T12:08:00.001-08:00

The birds have all flocked to my shop...well almost all....I still have 20 or so to list....phew...
So I am taking a lunch break and then of course Mr. Soren will wake up so I may not list the rest until this evening....thanks for your patience if you have been waiting.....I am having a whole lot of fun with these....still have a few monsters to list....Jack Rabbits....and Christmas trees....geez...
Happy December....my FAVORITE month of the year...the Birthday count down is ON!!!

OMG.....Just found a NEW favorite store...(new to me......) Introducing Cosas Minimas......

2009-12-02T20:42:00.001-08:00

Cosas Minimas......
If I could have the first two I would be soooooooooo Happy!!!

Happy December....my Birthday is coming up...12.12....not going to say how young I am...
I would say go ahead and guess but I'm not sure if I want to know what anyone thinks....and not sure if any of you even know what I look like.
Anywho...yup I am a true Sagittarius! With a few exceptions but I have never had my cards done...which I can not believe. I have been into astrology for like EVER.
Trying to get my birds in the shop.
Soren is not feeling well.
Life is going at a sprint....
as usual....trying to keep up.
Finally got my stroller fixed....I totally messed up the grip and had to order a whole new
handle bar to get it fixed...but it only cost $40.00 and now I am back in business!!
Anywho...sorry to be a stranger but will be back as often as I can!!!!

fa la la la la la la la la....chirp

2009-11-23T20:42:00.000-08:00

Ornaments for a swap I did for Small Fox in a big worldMy boy loves him some hotwheels

Memphis did this and I immediately hung it up...she also did some oranges and bananas!!!

He is also quite the bookworm....

What have I been up to?
Sewing bird ornaments.
Doing Laundry.
Husband had a procedure done...
taking care of hubby.
Got hair done
went grocery shopping
cleaned house
changed sheets
cleaned some closets
Saw my Ma
Saw New Moon with my bookclub
Got new Birthday/Christmas boots from Hubby early because of sale and had my size
(Martha made me do it....)
went to Target
Watched the Soloist
Watched me some Curb
off to sew some more ....
:Happy Monday Y'all!!!

Oh the things you can find when you are shopping for others......

2009-11-20T11:36:00.000-08:00

Love these and so many many other things in this shop...Retrowhale

I love and collect enamel trays...xoxo from Jape

Onegiftoneworld....I'm in love

Newduds super cool scarf

So so so love this...think I could rock it...not sure...Robert Rodriguez...yup..Nordstrom's

I am very drawn to this...not my usual style but I love it...Anthropologie

Diane Von Furstenberg...LOVE...also Nordstrom's

Sweater I love....Nordstrom's

I got to go to the Mall this morning by myself....it was like I was in another world. When you have small kids with you you are always watching them. Looking out...being aware of what they are doing, where they are going...what they are trying to destroy. So you don't really absorb the world like you would if you were by yourself. Well this morning I went to the mall...got there before it opened...got a coffee(never drink coffee...what a treat...soy mocha to be exact) and a blueberry scone. Sat down and people watched. I saw all these group of elderly folks all walking the mall, parents with kids, Dads alone with kids, kids smiling and running along, other people waiting to return stuff, people working to open up the shops, big big group of folks having a meeting in Nordstroms...all standing around listening to something a guy was saying...and I have to say...it made me teary eyed. Weird I know but it was just so refreshing to absorb, to notice, to see so much human energy at work. I was really taking it all in. I know it must sound weird to some of you but I also know there are others of you that know exactly what I am talking about. Not sure if it would bring anyone else close to tears but just thinking about it makes my eyes well up again. It's funny how things effect you when you are least expecting it. I guess spending so much time with my small son has made me yearn for grown up human connections so when I see so many out in the world it makes me hopeful. It's nice to be alone but not feel lonely at all.
I can't really explain it any better than that but I know some of you understand. Anywho...have a wonderful weekend...I am going to try and be around here more often as I have sort of fallen off the map. xoxoxo

The Clouds are rolling in.....to my shop :)

2009-11-19T11:51:00.001-08:00

Some clouds and monsters are in the shop NOW

sooooon some Jacks...owls....ornaments...birds...soooooon

Been working like a busy little beeeeeee....trying hard to fit stuff in every single second. Soren is napping right now...so I must go sew...Still have 1/2 a trade to finish...a few Jacks for someone special...a Lovely Doll for a special person and have to send off my ornaments for the swap I am involved in...( I know but I really love swaps) Happy Dappy Wednesday..........xoxoxo

Going to the Pumpkin Patch Finally.......

2009-10-25T10:26:00.001-07:00

New Scribble Monster....been in my head and finally came to life...

Super cool Halloween cards for the kids in her class...

Okay...
Last weekend...
Car broke down. We had a big rain storm causing many BIG puddles/floods on the roads.
Apparently my hubby went thru a large puddle/flood on a street in the U-District our car's engine took in too much water.
Hubby was with daughter.
Called neighbor to pick up daughter.
Hubby waited for tow truck.
Long story short...we have to sink some cash into our car but bright side is...
since it was a weather related incident our insurance will cover some of it.
Can't buy a new car right now as it will change our home loan....
After $300.00 we still do not have our car back as it will take about 2 weeks to repair...
good news is it will have a new engine...hubby's Dad(is retired mechanic) is helping so we know
it will get fixed right.
Hubby's younger brother helped with getting our car where it needed to go.
Very nice thing to do.
Hubby's parents loaned us a car...super nice thing to do.
So bad situation..not as bad as it could have been.
Did not have a car for about 4 days...weird life without car but we survived.
Walked to school and back 2 days in a row...no small feet with a one year old in tow.
It was fun and lucky for us not raining.
Next day...
Went to the ER...
was in MUCH pain.
Did not know what was wrong...
so...after a full day spent in ER (not so bad...kind of a break..minus awful ultrasounds)
I have an Ovarian cyst inside my left ovary.
Have to keep tabs on it.
Now have pain pills in case I need them as I can not take Ibuprofen or aspirin. (Peptic Ulcer)
Then this week...after getting car...went on many errands.
Must make rest of Memphis' costume...
have made some monsters
made a cape for a gift
made a cape for Memphis
made some ghosts...
made a bird
and our anniversary is this week....
Phew....
wonder what this week will bring
Oh and going to a birthday party today...at a Pumpkin patch..how cool is that?

Flickr is my drug of choice....

2009-10-15T10:30:00.000-07:00

These days I don't really go out all that much at night. I hardly ever drink anymore...not even at home. We rarely go out to dinner...so my drug of choice is Flickr. Seriously...it is such an amazing resource and I have met so many many many nice folks on Flickr that on any given day will cheer me up, inspire me, make me think differently about my life and most importantly make me smile. Being a full time care giver of a 1 year old and 8 year old is such an amazing job...really I can not begin to tell you how much those two kids have enriched my life and how much joy they bring Jason and I. I still look at them and think...we made them...you and I (to husband) made those gorgeous creatures. We have nurtured them, loved them, entertained them, cared for their every need and they are a part of us. It's so much bigger than we are....those two kids of ours are the shinning lights of our lives. They fill us with joy and make us better people and they force us to face who we really are......but sometimes as a full time care giver and parent we feel like we get lost. Sometimes we need to find ourselves and rediscover who we are. We need to be in touch with the world at large...the world outside of our families....for me Flickr is my daily reminder that I am not alone. That there are other people out there just like me. That in this world of chaos, war, multi-tasking and various hardships there are people out there that are kind...creative and good. I don't have co-workers anymore but I have flickr friends...I just wanted to thank all of my flickr friends today. Thanks so much for always being there when I need you...Happy Thursday all!!!

*the above photos are some of my current flickr favs...please check my flickr for photo credits.

Plush You 2009 Was really really fun

2009-10-12T22:38:00.000-07:00

Please see my flickr site for details on each photo...I have most of the maker names but if I am missing one that you know please let me know :)

So.... with a bottle of wine for Kristen in hand and my camera we headed out to Plush You 2009 on Friday. My Ma came over to watch Soren so it was just Jason, Memphis and I. I took as many photos as I could...it was very crowded and some pieces were harder to get photos of. I was thrilled to see so many folks out to see the show. There was sooooooo much amazing plush it made my head spin. We bought Memphis a Cutesy Poo Gnome and I bought a plush Ring from Raeburn Ink. I wanted soooooo much more. It was so great. Our good friend Rose came and hung out with us and we saw a lot of other friends. I did however fail to meet many fellow makers but I did talk a bit and that's good. I am not so good at big functions. I tried to maintain enough energy to go for drinks with fellow makers but I did not have any energy left by the end of the show and besides Soren was home with my Ma and she wanted to get going early and we had Memphis...so.... Then the next night Memphis and I spent Ma/daughter time together....it was great. We walked all over and saw the rest of the show at Bluebottle Gallery and The Anne Bonny. Memphis brought her pen and paper and wrote notes and stories while we talked and I took as many photos as I could. I also tried to write down all the artists names but missed a few. So...if I did not get your piece in a photo it was not for lack of trying. I loved so many many many but definitely had my favorites. I always do.....and for taking photos of the pieces Kristen gave me a gift....thanks so much Kristen. I seriously think that a Plush You Show catalog should be made and sold....it would be so much fun. So...I rediscovered my city, was super social, felt like a part of something bigger than myself, Saw Handmade Nation with my daughter, had quality time with my daughter, broke my thrifting ban for a day, got very inspired and had a whole lot of fun.....wish you could have been there....can't believe it's all over....phew what a weekend!! and can I just say...I am soooooooo ready to get sewing...:)

pps....if you see a piece that you would love to buy let me know and I can tell you what venue it's at and help you get a hold of them. You can also contact Kristen at Schmancy directly and ask her.

More from Plush You 2009

2009-10-11T19:44:00.001-07:00

My Husband's favorite...from Lou Lou and Oscar..love this guy

My Favorite from Ninon

Cotton Monster...so cool

Gleeful Things...our daughter loves this guy

Resurrection Fern...this guy is the Guardian of the rock

Hine Mizushima

Mochimochi Land...mossy ground...wow

Chris Creatures..big smiles

Yummy Pancake...this one makes a cool noise

Crochetdoll...I love these

Daniellearama...love this guy...so does our daughter

I just wanted to share some more of the pieces that are in Plush You...
I am going to do another post tomorrow about the actual show and how fun it was.
Jason, Memphis and I went to the Friday night showing...at Schmancy, Fancy and Nancy.
Then Memphis and I went to night number 2 at Bluebottle Gallery and The Anne Bonny.
Then today Memphis and I went to the showing of 'Handmade Nation'. It was one busy , busy weekend and I had a lot of fun...
more on all of it tomorrow....
for now....
I must sew...so very inspired.
Oh and I lifted my thrifting ban for the day(come on...Halloween time is awesome at the thrifts)...and scored at Value Village...plus I think the Mom daughter alone time was super fun and amazing....life is good!

more...more...more PLUSH YOU preview

2009-10-09T08:30:00.001-07:00

Lou Lou & Oscar...one of my favs
Cutesy Poo...crazy for these

Elisabeth Doherty...I just love this one

Jennifer Novak...my whole family loves these owls (there's two more)Beetle Girl Design...my daughter's fav...

Penguin & Fish...a big fan

Ryan Rinaldi super duper cool

Aimee Ray... she is always brilliant

Resurrection Fern...some super amazing pieces...love this snail

Love & a Sandwich...wow!

Plush You 2009...more of what you will find there...
so you just CAN NOT miss this show...plush (get it) think of all
the cool folks you could meet...
so check it out...
Happy Friday to allllllllllllllll

In other news...Soren had to go to the Doctor and is not feeling super
Memphis does not have school today
it is gray outside
I am not feeling super...but chin up
can't wait for Plush You
My Ma is coming to watch Mr. Soren
Weekend will be mellow.
Thanks for stopping by....
I completely appreciate you!

Plush You 2009....tomorrow and Saturday...check it out...

2009-10-08T10:54:00.000-07:00

Ninon.....I love Tania's work

Heidi Kenney...always always amazing

Mogu Takahashi....this guy is so great...so great

Eva Krzeminski of Effunia...she made some great pieces...this guy is so great
Revoluzza...this is the vampire, there is also a bat and a victim...so great

Plushgoodness...the Pike Place Fish market man...so good

Emilie Leborgne-Austin...so so great...sorry I don't have a link

Sweet & Sour Goodies...we love this angry dude

Chris Creatures....so cool

Mochimochi Land....some amazing pieces...

Denise Ferguson...love love love this

Plush Yo u is tomorrow and Saturday...here are some of the pieces that will be in the show....
See you there...:)

Wednesday....wow...my life right now

2009-10-07T13:31:00.001-07:00

Yes...I know most of these shots are blurry and not perfect but that's my boy...never sits still and always on the move. Also notice laundry pile and stroller that has to live there all the time :(

So....my life right now is
taking care of Soren...feeding, changing, playing, bathing, dressing, walking, discovering
cleaning my home....
Dropping off and picking up my daughter from school
helping her with homework and problems
sharing happy family fun times
looking for homes
helping with Plush You!!! Man Kristen does a lot of work for it
this year it will be Friday and Saturday so please come and have some Plush Fun!!
Trying to sew
watching Big Love
trying to rest
kinda of falling a part at the seams
getting it back together
looking on the bright side
enjoying my days
Also wanted to share this... Memphis Loves Charlie and Lola
this... WANT
and this... I hope one day I own one of these
so Happy Happy Happy Wednesday...
i have always loved you Wednesday!!

Take a Look TUESDAY....

2009-10-06T11:39:00.000-07:00

amazing hand soaps by Foilage...

Soren MUST have this...by Glitz Concepts

Great T-shirt by Rainbowswirlz

So so so cute by Bean Town Handmade....

This weekend
was still
sick
Rested
much
Husband
did
yardwork
Looked at more houses
found a great one
bad schools
deal
breaker
Sewed
a
little
trying to stay positive
working
Happy Tuesday to all
xoxo

Plush You 2009

2009-09-29T20:41:00.000-07:00

Plush You 2009 is OCTOBER 9th....and if you live in Seattle you just gotta go. It's so much fun. There is so much Plush Goodness to see and buy. My daughter loves going and so do I. I am so excited and have been waiting to share my entries with you. Please meet Isla and Ingmar and there pet monsters Umpf and Eeek. I had a lot of fun making these guys and I can't wait to start sewing more. Life is still oh so very busy...I have lots more to share but must go for now...Happy Tuesday to all....
if you have not seen 'Big Love' yet...I highly recommend it...we are addicted...thank you Net Flix.

Worth Mentioning Wednesday.....

2009-09-16T11:32:00.001-07:00

Today I went to my Flickr home page and Robin New had favorited me....I love her work and I want the one on the top that was a gift...so Robin...if you ever read this...will you be making more like, similar, sorta like that top guy? I just love them all but that top one is my all time fav!
Anywho....check out her Husband's blog they actually collaborate to make these super cool stuffies ...her flickr and her Esty shop you won't be sorry and I bet you will have a big fat smile on your face too!! xo

Super M meets Memphis.....and it was SUPER

2009-09-16T11:07:00.000-07:00

So waaaaaaaaaay back in June Sarah Day and I did a trade......well...she did her 1/2 and mine straggled along just a wee bit later...but I had to hang onto this amazing doll until Memphis' 8th Birthday in September.....and FINALLY the two Super Ms met!!!! Seriously it was love at first sight and she now proudly has a special place on Memphis' bed and in her amazing Plush collection. Anywho...I just wanted to brag a little about Super M and share the two Super M's finally!!! Sarah is amazingly talented and super duper duper nice. She has a super cool blog, a great shop and we are flickr friends as well. Thanks soooooooooo much Sarah!!!! We love our mini Super M!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Take a Look TUESDAY....

2009-09-15T14:03:00.001-07:00

Goregous by Naturemandala....take a look

Love this color way...great cowl by Softspoken...take a look

Super cool ideas at Neue....take a look

Hey there...take a look...gotta run xoxo

and then there was a second grader in our home....

2009-09-10T11:19:00.000-07:00

I just can not believe it is almost fall....geez fall is here...almost...my favorite season of the year!! So I am loosing it AGAIN. Trying to do too much feeling like I am getting nothing done...running on empty and pushing myself up each hill...giving it all I got! phew......
Memphis started 2nd grade yesterday!!! 2nd Grade!!! She is so amazing. I adore every single inch of that kid. She loves school and this year is extra special. She got to be in the same teacher's class. They have a looping program at her school...one year the teacher teaches 1st and the next 2nd. It is sooooooooooo amazing, especially for shy kids that get really really really nervous with change. It is going to change her life. I am serious. She will gain SOOOOO much confidence from this year I might not even recognize her come summer time...because she won't have to spend 1/2 the year getting to know her teacher and gaining courage to be herself. So I am just so so so grateful and happy that I can't stop smiling. I am however one of THOSE Ma's that gets emotional at the start and end of every school year. It stirs things inside me that I can not explain. I am just so darn proud of her that I feel like I am about to burst. She is already so so so much calmer and happier and adjusted. It's amazing. I am just so proud. She is still wearing her capes to school and I have managed to make a few new ones...need to make more. She is coming into her own sense of style and even picked out her own back pack this year. If you knew my daughter you would understand what that means. She is starting to make choices on her own. She is a true Virgo and just had a Birthday. This year we kept it simple and just took a couple of her friends to the Science Center. It was great and her brother was so excited. All the girls fawned over him and he loved it. Anywho...life is looking up and I for one am so glad...
the house hunt continues but I can tell....it's going to be a LONG bumpy ride. Happy Thursday!

Happy Friday to all....

2009-09-04T11:27:00.001-07:00

We went to Portland last weekend to visit our friends Kim and Robby, our kids god parents. They are the folks we choose to take care of our kids if anything should happen to us. They are very similar to us but very different as well and that's a good thing. They are more mellow than Jason and I, we tend to be a bit....just a bit...A-type and Kim and Robby are more relaxed and easy going. We had a lot of fun and Robby and Kim watched the kids for us one of the nights while we went out. Geez...that was super amazing. After we arrived we had an amazing pasta dinner, the kids fav, and then headed across the street to a park. The kids loved it and so did I. We put the kids to bed and stayed up chatting... Saturday we spent the morning all together, then Robby and Kim took Memphis to the OMSI and she loved it!!! That stuff is totally her. She loves space and science and loved the Planetarium so much even if it did put Kim and Robby to sleep...Robby literally fell asleep I hear. So Jason, Soren and I went to heaven...I mean Fabric Depot and I just kept saying....this is amazing...this is so great...I am so overwhelmed right now. While Jason pushed Soren thru all the isles in the stroller to keep him amused and when that stopped working we let him loose and with many giants smiles he went running and running and running. Man that boy can move. So Jason and I got some exercise too. They were also having a BIG sale...so how could I resist? Then we went to find our friends Sam and Greg but they were not home...so off we went to the nearest park, Laurelhurst Park to be exact.... so Mr. Soren could let loose and go nutso....and he did. Then we went back to meet up at their house and we got ready to go out to dinner with Ashley and Drew....so so so so so great. They could not have been any nicer and as it turns out Ashley and I have a lot more in common than I ever could have imagined. She is even cooler, sweeter, funnier and more gorgeous in person and Drew was fantastic too. What a treat....and they did treat us to dinner at the Delta Cafe. What a cool place that was!! I however made a big Vegetarian boo boo and did not ask if the dish I ordered was completely vegetarian. oooops....so on about my 12th bite I looked down and saw what I thought was bacon...so I quietly stopped eating it and ate my salad. I did not eat a piece of bacon but of course the juices from the bacon were consumed with my 12 or so bites of rice and beans. OOPS...normally I would have said something but both Drew and Ashley are veggies too and I had just met them for the very first time. I did not want to look like a big dork so I just played it all cool. I mean I have NEVER had that happen and I have been a complete veggie since 1986. Actually it's okay...I mean stuff happens and after a little bit of horror I was over it. I never said a word too...which for me was the hardest part of all. Anywho...then we were off to have a drink with our friends Sam and Greg. It was great to see them. I used to work with Sam here in Seattle and I adore her. They were so fun and it felt so extravagant getting to be so very very social. I mean geez...we were really out on the town. We got back to Kim and Robby's around 11pm and chatted for a bit and then the next morning Kim and I went and got pedicures....
So besides the 4 1/2 hour drive each way (should have been 3) with a 1 year old...and a lap top that played Sesame Street so Soren would not screech...it was really fun. I really like Portland a lot and hope we get to get down more often.
Phew...anywho..must run and prepare lunch and then when Soren wakes up we are off on errands for a special soon to be 8 years old girl of mine's birthday!!!
Happy happy Friday all!!!!
Did I tell you we have a brand new toilet? Well we do and it's so fast and amazing. Man what a difference a new toilet can make in your life....who would've thought?
Still house hunting...still have an offer we are waiting to hear about...still really really hard...fingers crossed something will happen and our offer will be accepted. :)

Worth Mentioning Wednesday

2009-08-26T07:14:00.000-07:00

Kido Deep into the forest...I saw this at Tottini
a cool toy that older kids can also have fun with while playing with their younger sibling(s)

Peek 'n Play....what a cool idea! Go check it out at Leaps and Bounds

TubTrug...I LOVE these. This image is from Amazon

Marimekko matching game from Plastica

Short and sweet today.
It's sunny
We will be going on some errands
then a dog walk
must do Laundry
maybe wash windows
and
keep up with
Sorenzilla
Happy Wednesday to all :)

Take a Look TUESDAY....new feature :)

2009-08-25T11:33:00.000-07:00

I took this photo at the Zoo yesterday. It was a chance happening. They were feeding the Giraffes and I have always wanted a photo exactly like this one....I have pictured it many times and it is so weird that it happened because the sun was shining right in my face and I had to try and dodge slightly around the trees to block out it's glare.....

What a great photo for my new feature...Take a LOOK Tuesday. I am going to try and bring cool items to your attention. Some will be new to you some may not but I am going to pass along things I LOVE and think would make anyone's life a little better.....

Uten-silo.....have wanted one for SOSOSOSOSOSO long...in white...by Ingo Maurer...I think it is amazing and it can be found many places that sell modern furniture or toys.

Claw monster from www.Liapela.com

I just love this so much...and it would really be used in our home...designpublic.com

What a great value Candu all in one ...hmmmmm....stardust.com

I am doing just super duper and hope all of you are too. Went to the Zoo yesterday and today we are meeting up at the park with Alison and Esmond. Fun fun....gotta run. :)

Shop of the Week.....Idea2lifestyle

2009-08-24T10:54:00.000-07:00

all the above photos came from Idea2Lifestyle's Etsy shop....

I stumbled on this shop, Idea2lifestyle, a bit ago and I just love so many pieces in their collection...I really want one in particular. Here is the profile from their Etsy site......

They are unique, they are only for those who love art, passionate about life, dare to be different and special. So be brave to try our pieces and to be yourself:)

Currently our team members are:
Ben, Gloria, shoufu, Yangyang, Summer, Duan sifu(paterning for new designs), Chan, Lee, gerald, gerald's dad(regular fabric ordering) and mum(ironING and packing).
We take part in every part of the every piece, so the piece is designed and made by our team instead of individual.

We don't attach brand tags on clothes, cos you will cut them when you wear, and we hope it is the very design attract you instead of brand.
Currently gerald runs the shop and liason with buyers.

We sincerely hope you will like our unique pieces and we will do our best to provide quality pieces and good service.

Go and check it out...you won't be sorry......

In other news...we went to my Ma's this weekend and visited with fam and I had the pleasure of meeting with the beautiful Ambika. She was so very helpful in advising me about buying our first home....she also recommended a coffee shop by the REI and I got to do a wee bit of shopping after our meeting. I went to Velocity...I love that store and got to see some of Lisa and Ashley's prints. Super gorgeous!!! I was very tempted to buy this super cute modern kid's chair but did not. Then I went to Tottini...where I looked at EVERyTHING and bought miss Memphis these...Giant Play and learn and Charlie Harper's coloring book. It got me thinking a lot of artists should come up with their own color books....I would totally buy them. Thanks Ambika for meeting up with me and I hope we do it again many times :). Happy Monday all

Family fun and then some

2009-08-22T19:20:00.000-07:00

FOXEN the walrus Love=Creature....finally finished and on his way to fabulous Sarah

So....we went to my Ma's for the day and visited my family...it was nice to see everyone and to relax and see the kids all play. Ironically this time I did not take any photos...I must be tired.

I also learned what a short sale is...so I finally understand them. There are sooooo many out there and one of the houses we like is one. There is so much to learn about real estate and buying a home. It is so confusing and scary. So I am trying to learn as much as I can so I feel better about any decision I might have to make. This could go on for a year or more so I am in for the long haul.

I discovered the work of Neon Matisse and I love all the bright colors so very much!!! Hurry now and go take a peak! Helene is so very talented and she has a great sense of humor...

These earring by Lilarubyking are just soooo great...I'm in love

So....that's all from me today...hope everyone is out living life to the fullest and having fun...

Worth Mentioning.....a new feature on my blog

2009-08-21T12:03:00.001-07:00

My DREAM couch has been located....it comes it white or brown and we would go for white....I love it. It is also a sleeper couch...I found it on 2Modern's website....I'm deep in love!

Stumbled on this little beauty at Allybu

Gorgeous installations from Kaarina Kaikkonen...Kristina mentioned her over at Karkovski...

I am in LOVE with the work of Mette

Kitchen photo of house we are considering...needs some TLC...photo makes it look alot better.
Also has world's smallest fridge and I am not a fan of black appliances but our price range means we have to have a lot of VISION....fingers crossed...

So the house search continues....we have a house we are considering...and like I said it needs A LOT of love but we can do it. Not my perfect dream house but could be pretty close. We went and looked again last night and I felt like I was going to have a heart attack...looking at all the work that would lie ahead makes my head spin, but alas that is our lot in life as we did not go forth and conquer the world and make our millions and we were definitely not born into money and as I have said before we have nobody to help us out so much VISION is required when looking for our first home. I go thru periods of much excitement and fear. I am beyond excited to FINALLY decorate, fix, transform a space of our very own. I can not believe that in our very near future this may actually happen but I am starting to and that is an amazing feeling. Like most things in our lives so far if it is worth while we have put much work into getting it. I am feeling very positive and inspired so fingers crossed we will have a chance.

Been thinking a bunch about my bloggy blog and I have come up with some new ideas.
Worth Mentioning Wednesday(and will be on Wednesdays) will hopefully be a regular thing. I will take time to find some cool things or at least share some thoughts. I still have to do a bunch of updates on my blog roll and I would love a header on my blog but don't know how....so I have been waiting for my husband to help.

BTW....Plush You is just around the corner and this year I plan on helping as much as I can...

This weekend is busy as usual....family plans with Ma, brother and his family...and I get to meet up with the fabulous Ambika!! I am asking her for first time home buyer tips as she and her man have a beautiful new home of their own... Happy Thursday everyone :)

It turns out....there is light at the end of the tunnel after all.........

2009-08-20T15:39:00.001-07:00

Hey....did you see my sister...she was riding her bike all by herself...

that's awesome!!

Watching

I really like sprinklers

So it would seem that life has delivered us some unexpected surprises....Memphis is going to be 8 at the beginning of next month so we bought her birthday present early. You see...she out grew her first bike and still could not ride it. She basically was terrified and no matter what we did or said...it did not work. So we just decided to wait until she was ready. She went with her Dad and our friend Robby, her god father, and she picked out a sweet bike. That, by the way, was on super mark down and can be passed on to her brother later on. So...with new bike in hand or maybe under foot...we headed off to the lower part of the park near us and started in with some lessons. Now these all took place while Jason was at work so I had Soren in the stroller and Gucci hooked up to the stroller on his leash and I did a lot of running back and forth and mostly I did a lot of cheer leading, good thing I was one for 2 years....I had to keep telling her to say can not can't...will not won't and to believe she could do it. After many tears and her asking me things like "Why are you doing this to me?" "You are going too fast!" "I won't do this...I won't" "I am a terrible bike rider!" and so on... we finally started making progress. The next day was more of the same and on the third day, even though she was very mad at me for it and still crying, I taught her to start the bike herself. She fought it with every ounce of her being until she realized she COULD do it and she would NOT get hurt. Then I suggested we move onto the sidewalk. I really pushed the issue and even though she ran into the bushes and there was a whole lot more crying by the next day she was riding on the sidewalk. Today we didn't even go on the dirt path at all and she is doing great. We have a ways to go but I am so very very very proud of her and also of myself. I have way more patience than I ever knew and I really did stay positive.
Tonight we are looking at the house we love again and with any luck....who knows....send good energy and thoughts our way. Happy Thursday all.....still have to post a few things but life is really turning around and so very fast.

Hello World.....let me give you a big bear hug :)

2009-08-18T11:55:00.001-07:00

love love love from thecellophanes want want want from Branchandbirdie

A Beautiful necklace from Nina Dinoff

So amazing from AnnaFabo

So this weekend was filled with loads of stuff. We went and looked at some houses...yup....WE LOOKED at some houses. Granted we are just beginning this entire journey and we don't have a very high price range but we are testing the waters....so far it was a very scary experience. We currently live in an amazing neighborhood and we love it. I also learned quickly that foreclosed homes in our price range=A LOT of work. Not to say we can't do the work but if the work also requires BIG $ amounts we are in trouble. Of course we found a house we LOVE but man is it beat up. Nobody has lived in it for quite some time and the yard is VERY overgrown... Old windows...musty smelling....weird do it yourself updates...strange kitchen...basement that was half ass updated...yard that requires weeks and weeks of work....but through all of that we both can't stop thinking about it...the other homes we saw were NO....instantly NO. They too were foreclosed home in much better shape but not much...man....this is going to be one of the hardest things we have ever ever done. So this process may take a long time and for now it is at least great to be testing the waters and to dream of the future...something that I have not been able to do seriously for a long while.

We also got to go out on a date....finally....and oddly enough we went to the Mall and to Old Navy and the Rack. We wanted to chat and just spend time doing stuff without kids. It was so very nice. Then Sunday I took Memphis to a Birthday party for the daughter of friends that we have not seen in a long time. It was so nice to see them and to see their friends. Memphis and I had a great time. After that I got to go out to a movie with a couple friends from my book club....we saw 'The Time Traveler's Wife' a book we read a long time ago in book club. It was really good and nice to be out on my own. I have also decided that my new approach to life is to try and always look on the good side, be more positive, try and enrich my life with positive mental health practices. Positive self talk, doing what I can with what I have really enjoying each day as much as I can. So far it is helping....a lot.

I have much more to share but for now I must go....Soren is waking up....We rec'd an amazing package from Natalie (a wonderful Etsy Friend and customer) and once I photograph the details I will have a post to share....Have a wonderful Tuesday......:)

Shop of the Week...PintassilgoPrints.....

2009-08-05T12:14:00.000-07:00

Beatles

All of the above finger puppets and the tote are by the talented PintassilgoPrints over at Etsy...they also have a blog...http://www.pintassilgo.com.br/blog/. I stumbled across them a few weeks ago and fell in love with their shop. I really love the Beatles finger puppets the most because they remind me of my Uncle Bill...who used to call and sing Beatles songs and play them too. He was a musician. I just think all of the finger puppets have such a wonderful sense of humor and their totes and prints are amazing too....so if you have never checked them out....do it now..... they are located in Brazil but you can find them on Etsy....of course :)

Also I really want to thank Janne, Erin, Tricia, Natalie, Sarah and Joline for all your sweet and kind words about yesterdays post....they really mean a lot to me....so I send you a BIG heartfelt thank you!!!!!!xoxoxoxo

It can't be August already....REALLY?

2009-08-04T12:11:00.000-07:00

So...this summer is flying by and I really can not believe it is already August. Memphis will be 8 years next month and will start the 2nd grade....geez! Soren will be 16 months old this month which is getting so very close to 2 years old.
Jason rec'd a new title at work which will improve things for our family. We are still trying to live happily in our small place and are most of the time. We had a yard sale and sold some stuff but most importantly we donated every single thing that was left. We cleaned out our storage spaces, our apartment and his tools. We got rid of mis matching dishes, old towels, toys that we just don't need, clothing that we have out grown and much much more. It felt so great. We have had a record warm/sunny summer here in Seattle and have been trying to stay cool. Memphis took swim lessons and loved it. We went to a roller skating party. We have been to Whidbey Island to go to Fort Casey for a Family reunion on Jason's side. We have been to many parks and some wadding pools. Soren and I met Martha!!!! She is just as amazing as I thought she would be. We made friends with Alison and Esmond...which was a wonderful surprise!! I met Alison on Flickr and she lives right here in Seattle. Her and her son are so great and we have gotten together with the kids a bunch this summer :). Soren has had his first shower and loved it. There is much much much more I am leaving out but you get the idea. Soren is so active that we are all tired at the end of each day. He is just adorable and brings us so much joy every single day. We are really a family of 4 now and it feels fantastic. We are the FANTASTIC FOUR!!! It is still very weird to say that I have kid (s)....two kids....I am a mother of TWO kids. Still very weird. I have also been battling a very strange depression that is riddled with a lot of panic attacks and so much anxiety ( which is what Panic attacks are) I made my first ever call to a therapist only to discover she was not for me. Sparing you the details it was not a good experience. So the hunt continues and I now have a few new leads thanks to my good friend Andrea and my husband. Jason and I are still way too tired but very much looking forward to the days that will bring more solid sleep as Soren almost sleeps thru the night. Memphis slept thru the night when she was little and it was so nice. Soren does not....and although he only wakes up once (most nights) it is still a break in sleep that makes a huge difference. Especially since he is up by 6:45-7am each day....sometimes earlier. I am trying to sew but not finding time these days and the anxiety issues I am facing are making loads of really simple things very hard. Life is a process and this is my time to process my issues as I can no longer ignore they exist. As I have mentioned on my blog I was repeatedly molested by my Grandfather when I was 6 years old and I have never been to therapy. My family doesn't believe in it and actually frowns upon it like it is something for weak people. Something that nobody really NEEDS to do. I was taught to just focus on the good and make the best of it and not hang on to the past...just move on. Well...it hasn't really worked for me but I am very proud of how much work I have done on my own. I feel much better about myself and life in general then I did 10 years ago. Anywho....my head has been filled with so much lately and I have been afraid to share any of it here. So, if you are reading this it means you have stopped by my little blog and I just want you to know....I really appreciate you. I do this blog for myself really but it is a pleasant surprise when folks say such wonderful things about me, my kids, my life, my Love=Creatures and I really can not thank you enough. So next month I am going to do a give away...I have to work out the details but I love giveaways and will share the details when I have them worked out.
Happy August everyone....it's going to be a great Fall...I can just feel it! Besides...it is my all time FAVORITE season of all and I get to wear COATS SOOOOOOOOON!!! YAY for COATS!!!!

I been gone gone gone

2009-07-29T12:36:00.001-07:00

Bedding I love from Target...hmmmmmm

Swooooooon....this is from Mette over at Etsy

From Old Navy....although I think it's gone now

I love this so much...maybe hubby could make something similar....this one is from
Via Toy Box

MUST have some of these...from Re Modern

Sold....from Frecklewonder.....so so so bummed. I really really really wanted this...isn't it AMAZING

New sheets I got from TJ Max....they are amazing and were once very expensive :)

Jane Foster....in love

From the VERY talented Tania of Super Ninon

I want Jason to make two of these for our living area and man would the kids love 'em
this one is from School Outfitters

So....let's see.
Summer
Swim lessons for two weeks in West Seattle...at Coleman Pool in Lincoln park...a total trek but what adventures we had.
Play dates
errands
a weeeee bit of sewing
too much stress
things going wrong
life taking a turn
making the best of it all
trying to stay on top
fighting to push ahead
happy to be blogging
a family reunion on husband's side
trip to Portland coming up in August
maybe a day trip to the coast or San Juan overnight?
Heat wave that is so so so crazy
in the upper 90's and going to reach 101 today
unheard of in Seattle
sweating
more sweating
fans
sold out
baby waking up
at least I posted
Happy Summer :)
xoxoxo

What a week oh what a week it was.......

2009-07-06T10:37:00.000-07:00

There was a Zoo trip...
meeting up with old friends and new....
lots more dog walks...
A trip over to West Seattle to have a play date with a very good friend...I had 3 kids in tow all on my own :) phew
Then there was the very Exciting and much anticipated Entourage in the evenings after kiddies went to bed...
flowers given by a good friend
a small bit of sewing
much purging went on...gathered approx 3 bags of stuff to sell at upcoming yardsale...and sent some to Give away...will also pass a few toys on to a good friend.
Errands to Goodwill, Trader Joe's, the Car wash all on my own....what a nice break that was :)
Not much at the thrift...a few books for Memphis and a GLORIOUS pair of wool/linen trousers for mister Soren by Flora and Henry no less....don't see that too often :)
a trip to Ikea and a new lamp....FINALLY!!! also a new shelf in Memphis' room for stuffies
and of course the 4th of July!!!
OH life...you give us so very much and when we choose to see the good and the beauty it can overwhelm us with joy....
yes...finally I am feeling oh so much better.
My creative energy is here again and I am dying to get sewing....:) Happy Monday...
Shop of the week later tonight...off to swim lessons all the way in West Seattle....:)

I have been lame...but trying so very hard not to be....

2009-07-01T11:41:00.000-07:00

Tania....you are amazing and this makes me smile very big....wow...I love them both so very much!!!

Lulubug love this...I think more people need to read this and act accordingly...

Someplaceelsewhere I just love this....hmmmm

AbigailPercy...I love this too

Love love by Umbrellaprints

So...still in a funk but fighting my way out.
Thanks so much to those of you that left me such kind words, Jennifer, Jenny, Holly, Amy, Kristen, Lulubeans to name a few. I really and truly appreciate it so very much and at least I know that my village is growing and the members are all amazing and truly wonderful ladies.
Thanks
So...not much news on the sewing front...still stalled but slowly trying to come back to life.
Many errands of late, a birthday party at a place called 'Pump It Up' for a classmate of Memphis. Lots of dog walks.
A few park visits.
Made it to the library.
Fabric store visits.
Target.
Trader Joe's
Visit from dear Portland friends...Kim and Robby
trip to Ballard
Missed book club
missed party for friend turning 40
lost my mind a few times
Memphis had to go to the ER....she is okay...long story....
Soren is still waking up 3 to 7 times per night????????
The weather is gorgeous.
Not a huge fan of the 4th but at least the weather will be good.
No shop of the week this week.
Gotta run right now...afternoon playdate coming up as soon as my boy wakes up.
I will try and smile more than I frown and I will fill my head with positive thoughts about myself and the world.
Thanks for stopping by

It takes a village to raise a child....so where's MY village????

2009-06-25T11:09:00.000-07:00

So....normally I keep things super light and fun and try to be inspiring but this week a depression has hit me and hit me hard. I don't know why but I suspect it is from trying to be as happy as I can and pretend that THINGS don't bother me. THINGS being that we live in a small space (yes I know I am a broken record) and it is hard to do but more importantly than how hard it can be is the feeling that we will be here forever. I know we are lucky and I do appreciate what we have, really....but to have a work space someday where I could leave my projects partially done...wow!! I mean I love the location and we are very very lucky I just wish with all my heart we had more space and that someday we will own our own home. Without help from family and without a more clear life path to financial success we have just always worked hard and tried to do the best we could. It all ties into success in life too and how maybe some of my choices were not the best and now I am where I am. So as many people do at times....I feel rather like a failure. I know, I know, I have my two gorgeous kids, I have an amazing husband but personally I just don't feel like I matter much. This depression is the kind that leaves you with the feeling 'Why Bother' and that scares me. I mean I KNOW that I matter but what can I say...somewhere inside my brain I'm not buying it. Okay...enough enough...the reason I am sharing this is because in the midst of my big depression...as I was feeling very lonely and sort of hopeless...my Friend Darcey calls and asks if we would like to go to the zoo. (She does not live in Seattle, so I see her but not as much as I would like.) Which is very funny to me because I was planning on surprising the kids and taking them to the Zoo that afternoon....so we met up with Darcey and her 3 kids and had a wonderful day...and I did NOT spend the day complaining or being a bummer. I had fun. The other really cool thing that happened yesterday is that Alison of Malisonian on flickr was also at the Zoo and she came up to me and told me she read my blog. I recognized her face but because I worked in retail forever I could not place how I knew her. She told me and we chatted about kids and having creative energy and lacking creative energy and I got to also meet Esmond, her son, who is super adorable. She was super nice and I told her to flickr mail me for a play date sometime this summer. So Alison if you are reading this...Hello and I can't wait to hang out at the Zoo again :)! I know both of those things are not super duper duper huge in the scheme of life but they were enough to pull me out of my depression a little and realize I am NOT alone. Life with kids is amazing, I do love it but I get lonely and we don't really have help so sometimes I become exhausted and overwhelmed. It was nice to chat with two wonderful ladies and to watch the kids go crazy at the Zoo. Soren was SOSOSOSO excited...he literally screamed at the Gorillas and loved the Penguins and each exhibit was just so exciting for him. He really loves life. Memphis had a great time with her pals Hazel, Leo and Ruby and it was just what we needed. So I guess today I am thanking the universe for sending me fun and love and hoping with all my heart that I can manage to love myself just a bit more and stop being bummed out by things that are out of my control and honestly don't really matter. It is hard to raise children without a village but if you want a village you have to build one...you can't wait for it to come looking for you and that is what I will try to do in the months to come. I hope all of you stay at home Mas out there have a village and if you don't feel free to come and join mine...you are all welcome :)

Shop of the week....Melanie Favreau

2009-06-23T10:45:00.000-07:00

I have been a huge fan of Melanie Favreau for awhile now...and I own 3 of her pieces!!! One was a gift for myself the other two were from my fabu Hubby!!! I love her sense of humor, her use of silhouette images and the words she puts on her pieces. I own 'This is Fake I am not' and every time I wear it...it makes me smile. She is amazing and such a wonderful person....here is part of her Etsy profile....

Hi! I live in the city of Montreal, in Quebec, Canada. I can't picture myself doing anything else, I just love my job! And my husband, my 5 cats, my numerous pairs of eyeglasses (who's counting!), purses...I think I'll stop there! I love cheese too...and coffee cups :P

I get inspired by, well everything! A color, a song, a glass of milk...

She is wicked talented so check out her flickr, her Etsy shop and just look at all the beautiful work she creates....thanks Melanie....

In other news...

Today is day 2 of summer vaca and so far so good. We are going to have an amazing day and we wish you all the same....xoxo

Havin' fun...for no money

2009-06-22T11:25:00.001-07:00

So....we have been out and about a lot.
Long walks on the beach, in the woods in our hood...
parks...swings...water...
signed up for swimming lessons for Memphis...
Poppy's day was super fun...
went for a long walk in the park, saw the water, hit the playground
had lunch at a Bagel shop
Last day of school was fun for Memphis
I made capes for her teacher and her teacher last year...
they play kickball with the 5th Graders that are leaving each year...
both the teachers wore the capes I made...
Memphis said is was super funny
Said summer good byes
Made plans for future play dates
Saturday
went to yard sales
was wiped out
had to do some resting later
oh and
On Thursday I got to meet MARTHA of Uniform Studio and
it was such a treat. Soren and I headed Downtown to meet her at her
Hotel over on 3rd close to Macy's and we walked to the Library...GORGEOUS...
then we walked to the International District and went to go to Kinokuniya, the
amazing Japanese bookstore attached to Uwajimaya....which until Thursday I thought was part of it and did not know it's name. I have been there a bunch of times but...
In Uwajimaya's first location it was upstairs and still super cool....
then we walked back and the entire time we chatted away...(my favorite part)
I forgot my CF cards for my camera after having emptied them the night before...
in the mad morning rush to get everyone ready for the day and Memphis off to school...I left them all at home :( Serious bummer at the library and lost my chance to get a shot of fantastic Martha...next time :)
So...I have no photos to share but it was so fun...Martha gave me one of her coveted scarves and I am wearing as I type right now...she is the best....
she said she will be back soon, with the whole fam, so next time I will be snap happy...
anywho...gotta run...
Happy Monday
What a great weekend it was...hope yours was great too

Shop of the week....Marilyn Patrizio!!!!

2009-06-16T11:02:00.000-07:00

(all the above photos belong to Marilyn and I am just using them for this posting)

I have been a BIG fan of Marilyn Patrizio's Timmies ever since I laid eyes on them sometime in 2006!! I love ALL her stuffies...I love her sense of humor and she is so talented. When I first started selling on Etsy I did a trade with her and it was so great...Memphis named him robot 3-3 and still adores him :)!! I took the below Bio from her website...check it out....and check out her shop....her blog and her Flickr and run over right now and get your very own Timmie :)

Marilyn Patrizio was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY. She is a freelance
illustrator, fine artist and soft toy designer.

After graduating from the School of Visual Arts with a Bachelor of Fine Arts
degree in Illustration in 2000 she began working as a staff illustrator
at a children's educational software company.  In 2004 she dove into the world of
freelance illustration and has enjoyed collaborating with local and international
clients ever since. In the beginning of 2005 she discovered the art of crochet toys
also known as Amigurumi. This was perfect for her because her mother
had taught her how to crochet many years before, and this was a great way to incorporate
3-D items into her work. After a few months of experimentation making free form soft toys
she decided to start a company called So Softies in March 2005. She's grown the So Softies
line to now include stationery, t-shirts and accessories featuring the
original characters that she's created.

When Marilyn is not designing she enjoys stuffing her face with pizza, scavenging the internet
for cute items, and sipping coffee at cozy cafes.

She also makes notebooks, t-shirts, stickers and many many other things...she is amazing....

Yesterday
Memphis stayed home sick....ear infections, yup two....
spent day
going to Doctor
getting medicine
the first time we rec'd pills...Memphis threw them up
so then we had to call and ask for liquid form
back to Pharmacist...wait some more
liquid did the trick...
I feel pretty stupid about it too.
When we were at the Doc's she asked Memphis if she could take pills.
Memphis said yes and the whole time I was thinking...WHEN?
So I let her write out the prescription for the pills all the while thinking...hmmm....
this seems wrong...
I was tired what can I say?
she went to school today but
late
The Doctor said she was ok to go to school...no fever...and it is her last week...
one of her favorite friends in her class will be leaving the school and transferring so this will be it...
his family is tough so play dates are really hard.
English is their second language and I have tried to chat with them, given them a photo I took of their child and Memphis but not much happened...soooo I will try this summer but who knows....
I hope she makes it and is feeling better by
days
end
that's it from here
thanks goodness for my dear Mother
who came over and watched Soren
she was off yesterday and spent the day
helping me...
I love my mother :)

Friday+Flickr=FUN

2009-06-12T11:50:00.000-07:00

1. to be framed, 2. alive, 3. Phoenix Modern Homes - The Casually Elegant House, 4. little pink houses, 5. TS372073姐妹俩, 6. Pink Pom-Poms, 7. One ugly dog, 8. white, my room to be, 9. Untitled, 10. Bexhill on Sea, 11. Line up for the Shuttle, 12. r2#8 - visiting at the kelso dunes [1], 13. www.flickr.com/photos/rosie-robinson/135835284/, 14. seats at the laundramat, 15. Toshiyuki Fukuda 3, 16. Lorraine McCue: Ripple Scarf, 17. 3S_002_lg2, 18. Tiki, master of the curious camera sniff, 19. Untitled, 20. Rear Window, 21. summer 2006, 22. WAWA007, 23. waiting for afternoon tea, 24. dolls, 25. indecisive, 26. *train station*, 27. wood_big, 28. Untitled, 29. Bow Down, 30. 07.04.06, 31. Red pattern II, 32. Urban Craft Uprising, 33. built by d view3, 34. Spooky Light after the storm, 35. wide eyed owls, 36. Untitled

Woke up in the night about 6 or 7 times
Soren has a cold and could not sleep
Jason had to get the outdoor rocking chair
and bring it in
We don't really have enough room for one
but maybe
we should re-consider that
Anywho
Got both kids ready for school
Memphis did not feel well
but she did not have a fever
So...she took some Tylenol and off we went
to pick up one
of her classmates that needed a ride
If only you knew how amazing that is in and of itself
since we are forever battling the morning
down to the very last second.
Phew, we made it in time
came home
watered the yard
wanted to go grocery shopping
Soren had another plan
Bottle and sleepy time
So...the day is still ahead of me
and there is much to do...much to do...
If you get a chance head down to Schmancy tonight
for Fiber Arctic 25 Fiber Artists ponder the environment and it's impact on the Arctic-one stitch at a time...wish I could go but alas...Jason has plans and I will not be able to attend...bummer
it should be amazing so go go go and take a lot of photos so I can see too!!

Just some things....

2009-06-11T11:58:00.000-07:00

Yeah that's right...I do...uuhh huhh....by Christopher David Ryan

Found at 'I Can Read' love this blog

I love this...capes for dogs from Bug Duds...I also LOVE the photo

Super cool vintage inspired plush by Misako Mimoko...

Beautiful Doll from Cocon

Love this also by Christopher David Ryan....they are called Sleepy Heads which is so perfect for me these days...I love this guy :)

Super amazing Sewing cards you can make for free from Beeper Babe

Woke up
less tired
Soren actually slept more
maybe he is feeling better
Got kids and myself ready for the day
usual amount of craziness ensued
dropped off Memphis
hit Target
Love the Woodstock stuff
love the picnic baskets
was super careful
did not buy much
only what we
needed
wanted so much more
Soren fell asleep in the car
now is napping
must eat lunch
Thinking a lot about re-org
need to get my whole life in order
kinda busting at the seams these days
still nice out
fans are on
ordered some amazing sandals
did not work
bummer
took a photo of them
will post on flickr...man they are gorgeous
just don't work for me...they were even on sale and I had a credit...
oh well
Must eat lunch
have a wonderful Thursday and remember to smile a lot and if you can
Dance!
Dancing is good for your soul!

Martha is coming................

2009-06-10T12:07:00.000-07:00

( I have borrowed the above Photos from Martha)

Martha of the famous Uniform Studio is coming to SEATTLE!!!
and I get to meet her!!!
I am so very excited.

If you have never heard of Uniform Studio go right now and check out Martha's blog.
She is a SUPER Mom, a genius seamstress/designer, an Architect, a teacher, an amazing photographer, an expert knitter, a super wife, an amazing artist and person and I feel so very excited that soon, very soon we will be REAL LIFE friends and not just web friends :)
Anywho... more about our visit next week...

will be sewing up a storm to try and fill my shop in the weeks to come...
a bit crazed with the end of school
and Soren's cold.
life is good.
Have a wonderful day and remember right now is all we have there is no guarantee that more is to come so enjoy every minute of your day and really take it all in....find the good in everything and try to slow down...

Not much else to say right now.
Soren will be waking up soon.

A little something for everyone...:)

2009-06-09T10:17:00.000-07:00

These shoes by Type Z are amazing....not sure they will work for me but I LOVE them Tube Necklace by Klei

I love the quilts that Linda Evans creates....Ponoko...cuff by Colin Francis

Nonchalantmom...gorgeous kids clothing and some for Mom too...check it out

I love the work of Jonas Lofgren Furs...so amazing and I am also an Olsen Twin junkie...sssshhh

Love these Funkis clog sandals....love love love

Soren would look super cute in the Tiny Mammoth t-shirt...:)

Woke up
tired
Soren woke up...I think 3 times last night
He still has a cold
So then Memphis was grouchy too
needless to say...I was grouchy
my hubby was grouchy
been up since 5:40 kinda
sort of laid in bed for a few but not really sleeping
Beautiful day outside
Field Day tomorrow at Memphis' school
too tired to write much
have a lot on my mind
trying to improve my life
thinking a lot about being more minimal
don't want to consume
consumption is consuming me
but I LOVE so many things
things make me tired
lists run thru my head
never stopping
type A personality
wish I was leaving on a trip to Europe today
wouldn't it be nice to be in the South of France
the Amalfi Coast in Italy
or shopping in Sweden or Denmark for fabric
Living thru my daydreams now
okay starting to feel much better
smile is working it's way to my face
thanks for stopping by
because you make my day
Hope you are having a wonderful day :)

Natalie if you are reading this...making great progress now
Andrea if you are reading this...call me :)

Shop of the week....Abigail Brown

2009-06-08T11:13:00.000-07:00

I am completely smitten with Abigail Brown's work...if there is a fairy Godmother I will be receiving a Red or Blue Fox VERY soon(if only fairy godmothers existed)...I am very drawn to all of her animals...and am the proud owner of an Iccle Monkey. :)
The Bio Below is taken from her website and the photos above are taken from her website and Etsy site. Seriously...she is AMAZING and if money were no object I would buy them ALL!!! Especially all the Foxes and Cats and ...well all of it.
She also does Illustrations and has some very gorgeous cards and does some Plush wall pieces which is something I have wanted to do for a long time now....if you have never seen her work...please go and take a look now :)

" As a very young little thing I grew up surrounded by the tools of my Grandma's trade...loose threads, scraps of fabric, pins and needles, and the constant whirr of the sewing machine as she peddled her way through her work, a very talented, hardworking seamstress.
She had a beautiful patchwork bag she kept her fabric scraps in, 'the raggy bag', and when I was old enough to display my feelings of desire for this magical object, full of wondrous bits of colour, pattern and texture, she made me my own, much littler version.
So this is where it began...the comfort I find in nesting away in piles of fabric and tangles of thread, and the use of such a medium to give life to the little creatures that form in my head. There is nothing more natural to me than this and in continuing to work in this way I am forever connected to my childhood and the wonderful days I spent with her.

I am fascinated by animals because of all the thoughts and feelings I can imagine they are experiencing but can never truly hope to know. I can create little worlds in which they exist, humanizing them, giving them names, deciding what little neckerchief they might like to wear or what sort of personality traits they might have.

My work with birds evolved perhaps because not only are they one of the most beautiful of creatures, so precious, so fragile and yet so animated and so positively bursting with life, but also because they are the most accessible to me.
Merrily they chirp in the dawn, delighting me with their happy tunes. They are simply so enchanting to watch as they hop, skip, swoop and dance their way through the day, twisting and turning with such quizzical looks.
It pleases me to build aound me this little flock of feathered friends each so delicate and fragile, each with it's own little character which is told through the little twist of it's head of it's own individual stance. Whether birds, monkeys, cats or elephants, my work centers around animals because they give me comfort, they are truly heart warming, they make me smile...and that is the same reaction I hope merely to evoke in others."

Also check out her Blog...
Thanks for stopping by and I do hope you find the joy in your day :)