...sugar booger designs...

{Happy Pa Day}

2012-01-26T20:28:00.000-08:00

So, today. Today we celebrated.

Rock 'Em Sock 'Em Robots. Yep, we started our day off punching the heads off robots. It was a pretty good way to start the day, actually. I can remember many times hearing Dad talk about playing this game as a little boy at someone's house and wishing so much that he had one of his own. So, for his 50th birthday, I found one for him. I was so excited to give it to him. For a long time I actually grieved the loss of seeing his excitement in opening my gift. Now I choose to just break it out on his birthday and enjoy not what could have been, but what is. The girls have quite a bit of fun pounding away on these things and, okay... so do Josh and I. Just don't play Wendy. That girl gets a little crazy... :)

Sophie and I made a German Chocolate Cake. Definitely Dad's favorite. And I now have a new willingness to fork over the $4 per piece that Queenies charges for their amazing German Chocolate Cake. Pain in the tush. But I'll probably do it again next year. And will most likely eat the whole thing myself. It's a special occasion, afterall.

Anyway, Sophie get's so excited about birthdays and it is so important to me that they know Pa. So, I thought making a cake would add to the fun of celebrating someone's birthday when they aren't even here. I was really surprised that she hadn't request balloons and party hats like usual, but then I could tell she was really concerned about something. I asked her what was wrong and she said "Mommy. How are we going to get Pa's cake up to Heaven to him?" *smile* So, I explained to her that Pa doesn't need cake anymore, that we get to be the ones to enjoy it instead! I can tell this is all still a little strange to her. Then, she brought me this little post it note that she had colored on and said "this is for Pa." I told her that he would have really liked to get her note. She says to me every once in a while, "Mommy, I want Pa to come down to here so I can see him." Me too kid. Me too.

Every year for Dad's birthday I would get him a new Christian t-shirt. Not sure if he even still liked getting them, but it was tradition! :) Last year Josh suggested that we start a new tradition where each year on Dad's birthday we all get a new Christian t-shirt. So, this evening we headed over to our local Christian bookstore and did just that. Somehow I feel like this is honoring Dad's memory in a simple, silly way. It helps me anyway and hopefully someday the girls will look forward to it too.

I was asked to share with the ladies at our Church a little about grief. This has caused me to want to go back through my "box". I rarely ever go there. I think I've opened it up twice in the past 3 years. I see it almost every day, but never really have a desire to look inside. It was so good to have a reason to take off that lid and remember. Even though there were a few tears shed, I thoroughly enjoyed picking up each trinket and remembering. It did make me miss him, but it was so good to have him on my mind in a fresh way. Today I just stopped and looked at my box. Dad. In a box. How does this one little container hold all that is my Dad to me? Then, I remembered the old hymn The Love of God. Could we with ink the ocean fill, And were the skies of parchment made, Were every stalk on earth a quill, And every man a scribe by trade, To write the love of God above, Would drain the ocean dry. Nor could the scroll contain the whole, Though stretched from sky to sky. I was just reminded of my Dad's purpose as a Father. He was to protect me, but he was also to be a representation to me of God the Father. Even with his flaws, his broken fingers, bowed legs and total inability to carry a tune, he was such a good representation to me. I have never really stopped to consider just how good. He was firm, but at the same time so gentle and loving. He was my small little glimpse of my loving God. Just like my little container will never be able to truly hold all that is my Dad to me, the earth as a scroll stretched from sky to sky can never contain all that is my Abba Father.

I still remember having a very confusing conversation with my mom where I just could not understand why I couldn't marry my Daddy. My Dad was my first love. I am forever thankful that I had a Daddy who stole my heart away.

Five Years

2011-12-30T20:27:00.000-08:00

Five years ago today:
-I experienced true sorrow.
-I told my Mom what she already knew was true. He was gone.
-I laid on the bathroom floor and cried so hard and so deep that I just knew air was not going to fill my lungs again.
-I had grace heaped upon me. Huge, massive portions of God's grace.
-I learned that this didn't mean I wouldn't feel the pain. The deep ache. The gut twisting, nauseating pain. It meant I would survive it. I would be okay.

Today marks five years since the last time I saw my Daddy. It has been five years of longing for him, rejoicing for him, missing him, rejoicing for him, aching for him, rejoicing for him. Him. Somedays I just don't want to rejoice for him. I just want him. I want my Daddy. Somedays I think "if I could just..." If I could just what?! Hug him one more time? Tell him I love him one more time? See him just one time laugh and play with my little girls? It would never be enough. I would never be ready to say good bye...

It has also been five years of gifts. Little morsels from God. Life-sustaining morsels.

I miss him so much. But I think that's okay. I know I will see him soon.

{Projects I am Dying to Try}

2011-07-27T12:05:00.000-07:00

I LOVE LOVE LOVE this idea! I am off to the thrift store tomorrow to hopefully score an oil painting treasure that I can turn into one of these fabulous "paint by numbers" creations!

Fabulous, right?!

Yesterday, Money Saving Mom posted a link to this very creative (and cheap) option for displaying children's books. Made from guttering! I have really been trying to come up with a way to get these girls of mine to read more. At one time Sophie was crazy about books, but it's been work getting her to read lately. And Miss Maggie just likes to pull them all off the shelf and throw them on the floor! I think the idea of allowing little ones to see the cover of the book instead of just the spine is great and just might do the trick here! They have the perfect spot for this in their room. I can whip up a couple of floor pillows or bean bags and voila! reading corner fabulous-ness!

Looks almost like a nice wooden shelf, huh?!

{A Very Special Birthday}

2011-07-26T09:16:00.000-07:00

Well, in the life of my sweet 3 year old anyway. This morning Sophie declares to me that it is Thomas' birthday and we must decorate NOW! This girl is so passionate about everything. She gets this very serious look and emphasizes every syllable of every word. We. Must. Dec.Or.Ate. Now. Oh how she makes me laugh.

I have really been convicted lately about enjoying time with my kids. I do always make time for them or take them to do fun things, but I end up playing on my phone or reading a book while they play at the park instead of getting up and playing WITH them! And what a shock - I have FUN when I finally get over myself and get up off my lazy tush and play with them. Who knew? (note sarcasm)

So, this morning, we had a birthday party for Thomas.

Doesn't he look so excited?!

Lots of friends came.

Maggie too.

Sophie made a "cake".

And of course, there were gifts.

Showing Thomas his cake. *Love this girl and her great imagination.*

My heart overflows with praise and thanksgiving today for the gift of little girls. And the blessing and opportunity to play with them everyday!

{Because I Have No Where Else to Send This - A Letter to My Daddy}

2011-06-19T19:08:00.000-07:00

Dad,

Today I drove out to visit “you” in Blackburn. I hate that place. I hate that the part of you that I used to be able to wrap my arms around is rotting in the ground. Being there reminds me of the reality of this world where pain, sorrow and loss are common. So many daddies and mommies and babies being mourned and missed by someone. I still have dreams about you that remind me of a silly Soap Opera or a cheesy movie where you are really alive, but have just had amnesia and are off living a different life somewhere else. Well, you don’t have amnesia, but you are off living a different life somewhere else. An eternal life in a really great place. Soon. Soon we will all be where we should be.

Anyway, for some reason on Father’s day I just really feel like I have to come visit. So, I did. I brought snacks. An old favorite of ours, popcorn and orange juice. It just wasn’t the same without Andy Griffith or an old John Wayne movie going. Plus it was hot. And you weren’t really there.

There were two old guys hanging around. They were just wandering around looking at the different headstones and talking about the people. It reminded me of how you used to take us out there and do the same thing! Ha! It must be a Blackburn thing… Then, I started thinking about “wolf hunts” and how we used to all just hang out down on the dirt road listening to the dogs chase coyotes. I still don’t understand that whole thing. Was the intent to chase off the coyotes? Why did you guys call it wolf hunting? Or was it all just another excuse for all you country guys to just sit around and talk? Probably the last one. Maybe BoBo would know the answer to that one.

I drove past that huge old barn that you liked so much. I remembered the time that we just pulled up in their driveway and you asked if we could go look inside the barn. I don’t think you even knew the people! Ha! Didn’t matter… you never met a stranger and people never seemed to mind. :)

I decided to take the scenic route and go through Blackburn. I passed Jody and Vickie Denny on four wheelers. It reminded me of the time we were at the Tournament of Champions and you could see Jody across the court with binoculars searching the crowds. You stuck your finger up your nose and waited for him to see you. It brought you great delight to see them notice you and start cracking up. You were so funny.

Someone built a little camp just before you get into Blackburn. It reminded me of your dreams to someday build a camp out on our land in Cleveland. I think this is a lot like how yours would have looked too… metal buildings everywhere! :) I do wish that God had chosen to use you in camp ministry and in building docks for camps and full time workers like you had dreamed. I just have to accept that His ways are higher than mine and His understanding more than mine… He knew that you were a willing servant and this is how He chose to use you. I have seen so many great things as a result. Thank you for even being a servant in death.

I drove past the Blackburn Baptist Church. Man have they really fixed that place up! It looks totally different! I don’t know who the preacher is now, but I couldn’t help but remember our time there. You had your first shot at public speaking with giving announcements. I remember that even in that teeny group, with only announcements to give you still got so nervous. :) The Lord was preparing you, wasn’t he? I may be wrong about this, but in my opinion that time at Blackburn was just a stepping stone into great spiritual growth for you (and all of us, really).

The old gas station is still there. I wish they still had the old fashioned pop machines with the glass bottle pop. I remember we always stopped by to get one, probably after walking around at the cemetery! Ha! I remember as a little girl going in there with you and I would always stand on the metal pop crates while you paid for our stuff. Of course there was that one time… I won’t mention it. :)

I picked wildflowers on the way out. I love picturing you stopping to pick every kind of wildflower you came across between Grand Lake and home to put in the antique bee smoker for Mom. It was so special to her which I’m sure you knew, but you probably didn’t realize how special it was for your kids to see love displayed so clearly. We all have a thing for wildflowers now.

On the way back I started cracking up when I passed “The Cove” restaurant, or what used to be that is. I remembered you telling us how you could see into the kitchen and you could watch the great big lady flipping burgers in a sleeveless shirt, sweat dripping on the grill. And you still ate there!!! That still makes me want to throw up. Yikes.

The lake looked awesome. I would give anything to be on an innertube while you tried your hardest to cause permanent brain and spine damage! That may have been the most fun thing I have ever done in my life. I can still remember how you looked standing with one leg propped on the seat, craning your head to see behind you. You always had on cargo shorts, a t-shirt, a ball cap and tennis shoes with socks. On a boat! That still cracks me up.

I can still remember the way your whiskered face felt and how you smelled of hard work, Old Spice and Tide. I have your green chair in the girl’s room and for a really long time I could still catch a whiff of you. I loved that. I can still hear you say “ah heck” and that “hee hee hee” laugh you used to do when you were being ornery.

This weekend I realized something. I am healing a little. That made me bawl. I guess because it means you have been gone long enough that time is started to heal my wounds. I don’t want it to have been almost 5 years since I’ve seen you, but it has. Soon. Soon I will get to see you again. I can’t wait! I don’t think it takes away any from the glory of the Lord for me to be excited to see you too. I love you.

Love,
Your Sugar Booger
Me. Brooke. :)

{I Love Being Mommy}

2011-05-05T11:05:00.000-07:00

{Gifts}

2011-05-03T18:08:00.000-07:00

Sometimes a moment just overtakes you. Sometimes you observe something that just lays your heart wide open. Sometimes you are just blasted with the overwhelming reality of God's goodness. Sometimes you just can't mistake the gift right in front of your face.

Sometimes the worst you can imagine happens. Then comes Grace. Hope. And those little gifts from a God that cares more than we could ever begin to imagine. Not always in the forms we might have expected. And maybe not that which our heart truly longs for, him. Pa. But wonderful gifts that bring us joy and remind us that God knows and loves us. Salve for that wounded, empty place in our heart. Not a replacement of the one we have lost, but a gift of joy just the same.

Thankful. I am that.

{Sisters}

2011-04-20T06:27:00.000-07:00

Even though most of the time they still make each other scream... I am seeing more and more moments where they enjoy playing with each other. Oh how I hope they a great friends some day and genuinely love each other.

I always thought I wanted all boys because I can handle the punching and *boy* fighting. I just didn't want the drama that I knew came along with girls. And even though there is already A LOT OF DRAMA around here, I am so very thankful to have two little daughters. Sisters. I just can't wait to see them playing house together or dressing each other up or whispering and giggling in their rooms when they should be sleeping. I'm so excited for this *adventure* we are blessed to be on. This *adventure* of having little girls.

Just for memories sake: The few things they love to do together is for Sophie to push Maggie around in the doll stroller; Maggie loves to climb up and sit on Sophie's lap {which Sophie loves} - until she just gets too heavy and I have to get her off; they love to give each other kisses and then just laugh and laugh when Maggie kisses Sophie's eye or nose. SO cute!

Feeling blessed beyond measure today and loving it! Thank you Lord for these precious gifts.

{Daddy's Hands}

2011-04-19T06:42:00.000-07:00

There just aren't words to describe how I feel about things like this...

{I love...}

2011-04-13T17:24:00.000-07:00

...little girls in sweet dresses. {Especially when they are as silly as this girl!}

...the provision of a *new* swimsuit {that fits} for $3 and is oh so adorable and vintage looking.

{Art Case}

2011-04-12T07:41:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine said "hey, can you make one of these?" Of course, I took that as a challenge. ha! This was my *pattern* test run, so I have some tweaking to do, but it's always fun to make a new creation. I'm hoping to come up with a pdf pattern for this someday... someday.

Eeeek...

2011-04-08T09:03:00.000-07:00

...Sugar Booger Design labels have arrived! Inked Papers did a fabulous job. They are exactly what I had envisioned and I cannot WAIT to start completing projects so I can sew in my very own label! Excited? Me? A little. :)

Choices

2011-04-05T07:50:00.000-07:00

Last night my sweet man kept the girls so I could get out and just unwind. At least that was the idea. I went several places hoping to draw inspiration and maybe even jot down some new designs and ideas. I ended up just feeling so discouraged. I have so many ideas swirling in my head, but no time to work on them. Since Maggie has taken over our extra room I have no place to sew. We have a bar-height table, so that's not an option for sewing since I can't reach the peddle! So, I can either sit on the floor and try to sew (which does not go well) or just suffer creative frustration.

I know lots of mom's deal with this. Finding time to create or read or whatever it is you love to do. Feeling guilty because we just want a little bit of time to ourselves. Is it wrong? I still don't have an answer to that. Probably not as long as we don't sacrifice the needs of our family. It's dealing with the reality that there just isn't always time left in the day for "me time". Kids are finally in bed by 8:00, but then the laundry needs folded, the floors need vacuumed, the dishes are still piled in the sink. Do I just leave it all that way knowing how important it is to my husband to have a clean house? Or do I once again choose to put the needs of my family over my own creative time? It's really hard for me somedays to make the right choice. Even when I do I struggle with having a joyful attitude. I can feel resentment building up instead of choosing to be thankful that I have a family to clean up after.

Hard things for me. Some may just laugh at this, but I really struggle with this daily. Then, I remember all the people who have told me that "they grow up so fast" and I remember the Scripture that says "our life is a vapor". Why can't I enjoy the place I am in now. I can. It is a choice though. I really believe that we have to choose to enjoy and eventually I'm sure we can train ourselves to do that as a reflex. And this little family of mine is fun and can bring such pure happiness. I get so mad at myself for being burdened and focusing on the side of things that are hard instead of focusing on the things that are wonderful and delightful! I love my man! I love these beautiful daughters! Today the Lord has reminded me to choose joy instead of frustration. So, another week goes by without being able to "create". That's okay because I am going to spend it having a great time enjoying my beautiful blessing. My family! I had pictures to post, but these "beautiful blessings" are both climbing on my and crying... So, we'll save the pictures for another time. :)

Sometimes...

2011-03-29T06:15:00.000-07:00

...being forgetful is good. You stumble across little treasures like this that you forgot you had and enjoy them as much as the first time.

List Maker

2011-03-28T10:50:00.000-07:00

I have become a notorious list maker. I admit I have always been fond of lists, but ever since my second child was born my brain has been on vacation at some undisclosed location turning my fondness for list making into necessity! I have even been known to make lists of all the lists I need to make. Sheesh. I know I am not alone in this obsession. Right?

I'm also one of those people that is always looking for a better way to make and keep track of lists. Any suggestions? I seem to use a different technique every month or so and have yet to find just the right one. (See, obsession I tell ya!)

Anyway, I am confident that my brain will someday return and maybe I won't be so dependent... until then the crazy will continue. Now if I can just remember where I put my list, I might get things done!

A Good Day.

2011-03-26T14:54:00.000-07:00

This day six years ago was a good day. Despite the fact that I went from one crazy last name to another crazy last name... it really was a good day.

Our wedding day. A very special friend still a part of my life, my Dad still here, and me a bride! Good day. That day little girls dream of most of their lives. That day when you get to put on that fancy dress and nervously walk down the aisle, hoping desperately that you don't trip and fall or catch your dress on fire with the not so strategically placed candles. Good day. Walking in on my sweet Daddy's arm and walking out with my Beloved. Good day.

The path so far has been full of trials and blessings, heartache and joy. This man is a gift. He has seen me at my lowest point and yet loved me. He has been a rock and encouragement to me in dark times. He has shared great joy with me in the birth of two beautiful daughters. Yes, it was a good day six years ago when we became a new little family. And it is a good day today, as we celebrate the gift of another year together.

Coming Soon!

2011-03-23T06:46:00.000-07:00

New things coming soon!

Time Consuming.

2011-03-22T12:46:00.000-07:00

This puny little thing has been consuming pretty much all of my time the past few days. Poor girl is so sick and apparently the only thing that helps is to be snuggled by her Mommy. I love the snuggles, but my house is hating it! Oh well. The house will always need to be cleaned, but snuggles don't last very long with these little ones. They grow so fast! So, I sit here and try to enjoy the place we are at for today and try not to stress about all the little things that need to be done.

A story of Amy Carmichael:

A lesson in the mystery of prayer - a tough one for any adult - came when Amy was three years old. Taught by her mother that God was a hearer and an answerer of prayer, One who could change water into wine, she determined to test His powers. Kneeling by her bed that night she asked for the one thing she most passionately longed for: blue eyes. Surely there would be no difficulty for the Lord in this. The little girl went to bed with perfect confidence. She jumped out of bed at dawn, pushed a chair to the chest of drawers, climbed up and looked in the mirror - into the same brown eyes. She never forgot the bewilderment she felt until, somehow, an explanation was given: Isn't no an answer? So prayer was not magic. Like her earthly father who loved her, her heavenly Father might also say no.

Dreaming...

2011-03-18T12:24:00.000-07:00

Photo taken from the fabulous Lettered Cottage blog.

...of someday having a fireplace mantel to decorate!
I love the Lettered Cottage. What a sweet couple with FABULOUS style!

Curious...

2011-03-17T07:15:00.000-07:00

I definitely don't want to make people feel obligated to comment on every post, and I am certainly one of the world's worst people at *lurking* on blogs and not commenting! However, I am curious if people really read this blog anymore or if everyone gave up on me during my long absence... Apparently I don't handle the whole newborn to one year old phase very well! I know some people love that phase, but it just wears me out and takes up every second of every day (and night)! :)

I really am working on getting Sugar Booger Design up and running again with fresh new things and have made a commitment to myself to blog consistently. I hope to open shop sometime this summer with a good inventory and even the option for some custom work.

Since this really is more of a hobby for me rather than a necessary work to put food on the table, I have a lot more flexibility than some. While that is a good thing, it can also be a negative for someone who has a hard time with self-discipline! Joyfulness and practicing self-discipline are two things the Lord has been really convicting me of this year. These are good things and I know He will help me become more consistent in both of these things! I'm looking forward to that, even if the process is a little painful at times.

So, having said all that, I get back to my original purpose for this post: If you read this blog, would you post a comment letting me know. *De-lurkify* yourselves! If nothing else, it would encourage me. :)

Onsie Dress

2011-03-14T13:57:00.000-07:00

I have several different "onsie dresses" that I plan to make. I finished one up last night. The only bad thing about sewing after the munckins go to bed is that you can't measure them as you sew... So, this one ended up a tad short and high waisted, but since it was the first I won't beat myself up too much. *smile* It was super easy! Here is where I got the idea, but really just kind of made it up on my own as I went. (Still gotta give credit for the idea though!)

And apparently I did not take a photo of the top before I put it on Miss Maggie and now it has lunch all over it. You get the idea though! I did want it to fit more like a tunic and less like a dress so she could wear it with her super cute baby jeggings! I made a cute little flower to put on the top, but I just don't know if it would survive the wash... and not sure pinning something on a 1 year old is a good idea. So, I just left it off. If I make a variation of this for Sophie, I will definitely be adding an embellishment of some sort.

I do have one suggestion in case you do decide to give this a try:

Definitely attach the skirt and elastic band lower on the onsie. I had a really hard time getting Miss M's arms into this because you lose the stretch where the skirt attaches.

Oh. In case you are wondering, yes, she is holding what you think she is. What can I say?! They bring hours of entertainment around here. Who needs toys?! ha!

Dolly Sweetness

2011-03-11T10:42:00.000-08:00

Another great little tutorial from Pin and Paper! I highly recommend this tutorial for anyone with a little girl (or as a gift). I found it to be SUPER simple and adorable!

I have been working on my own pattern for a similar doll, but haven't quite perfected it yet. I promise to share as soon as I can. In the mean time...

***Just a note, if you do make this doll... I suggest going with the fleece as she did, but sew the pig tails first and THEN cut it out. Otherwise your machine will eat it. Speaking from experience here...***

Wooden Matching Game So Cute

2011-03-10T07:38:00.000-08:00

I whipped out a set of these for our cute little cousin Carson. I LOVED them!!! Sophie was very disappointed that they were a gift, so I have promised to make them a set too. Unfortunately, I forgot to take a picture of the one I made. Seriously, no brain anymore.

This is the set that was my inspiration over at Pin and Paper.

I decided to leave them a little more simple and organic looking. I did just a few lines for hair on the forehead, little dot eyes and a teeny smile. A few issues I ran in to during this project: once you paint the little people, they no longer fit in the cups! You have to either sand down the little people before painting, or sand the inside of the cups (option I chose since my guys were already painted). Also, this lady sprayed her project with a clear gloss which I think looks great, BUT I could not find any kind of clear gloss spray that was non-toxic. Supposedly Krylon's is, but the bottle does not say that it is safe for toys and it does still have the same ingredients as other sprays that do not say non-toxic??? So, I opted for the safer option and just used acrylic, AP certified non-toxic paint and did not do a gloss. They weren't as shiny, but still super cute. I also found a cute little wooden box to put them in instead of mounting them on a board. Easier for storage!

Maybe I can get my fabulous cousin to snap a photo of the one I made... or I will post a pic when I finish the one for my girls. I did want to go ahead and share this link before I forgot. You know that would never happen, right?! ha!

If you make a set, do share! I would love to see your own special, creative take on the project!

~Under Construction and New Address~

2011-03-08T16:38:00.000-08:00

Please excuse the mess while I "re-vamp" things a bit. Also, please update your reader or bookmark to my new address: sugarboogerdesign.com I have my own domain name now! Woo hoo!!!

My Heart's Desire

2011-03-07T08:43:00.000-08:00

I really struggle on most days to enjoy this thing I do called motherhood. I truly love my sweet girls and I do enjoy them. Most of the time. Some days it is so hard. My clothes are covered in boogies, I haven't had a shower in 2 days, the house is a disaster, I still need to go to the grocery store, I have no idea what we will have for dinner, I have to stop what I'm doing every 60 seconds to discipline a child or meet their needs in some way, and all I really want to do is take a nap.

Why do I let myself forget how absolutely blessed I am?! How many nights did I lay in bed crying out to the Lord my hearts desire for a husband and a family?! How can I forget how He has given me my heart's desire (and more so)?! Why do I look at this blessing as a curse instead of something to take great joy in?! How long will these little ones be little and crying out "Mommy, play with me"?! Why do I not enjoy every moment of my day in this thing called motherhood?! Selfishness. Oh man, am I ever selfish.

I read this passage yesterday morning and was just overwhelmed with the reminder how richly I have been blessed!

O LORD, in your strength the king rejoices, and in your salvation how greatly he exults! You have given him his heart's desire and have not withheld the request of his lips. For you meet him with rich blessings; you set a crown of fine gold upon his head. He asked life of you; you gave it to him, length of days forever and ever. His glory is great through your salvation; splendor and majesty you bestow on him. For you make him most blessed forever; you make him glad with the joy of your presence. For the king trusts in the LORD, and through the steadfast love of the Most High he shall not be moved.
Psalm 21:1-7

I have Salvation! I have my heart's desire! I have rich blessings! I have life and length of days forever and ever! Splendor and majesty He has bestowed upon me! I am blessed forever! I have been made glad with joy! Why do I choose to live as one who has not received all these things? My position in Christ is one of salvation, blessing, eternal life, splendor and majesty, blessed forever, joyfulness! I am dead to the other. The grumpiness, the drudgery, the anger, the frustration, the lack of joy, death. That is not who I am anymore. Praise the Lord!!! If I were rich (with money) here and now, I don't think that is something I would have to remind myself of every other minute of the day. So, why do I constantly have to remind myself of how rich I truly am? I do get so tired of being forgetful, but am so very thankful that God is continually forgiving and remembers my sin of selfishness, weakness, forgetfulness, ungratefulness, etc. no more!!! Man. Does this overwhelm you?!

One Whole Year.

2011-02-28T19:00:00.000-08:00

Well, my baby is one. Yeah! She has all of the sudden turned into this lovable, silly little girl and it is wonderful.

It has been a great year, but a tough one too. From day one it's been crazy. Maggie was born, then that night Sophie got the stomach flu (for the first time). Four days later Josh and I came down with it. Not fun. Less than 2 weeks later we all ended up with a HORRIBLE virus that made us all so sick. Our throats were almost swollen shut, couldn't sleep because we couldn't breath, lost our voices, high fevers, so on. Lasted over a week. Maggie caught this too! It was so, so sad. From that day on this girl has been sick at least once a month with ear infections, stomach bugs, sinus infections, you name it! What is up with this kid?! She hasn't slept through the night yet. About a month ago her ear drum ruptured and she only woke up once a night for almost 2 weeks! It was so nice to not have to get up with a screaming child 3 to 10 times a night (yes, 10 times). It seems like we are holding steady at waking up at midnight, 4:30 and up for the day at 6:00. Hey, it's better than 10 times, so I'll take it! Looking forward to the day when we both get a good night's sleep.

So, now all that sounds like this has been a miserable year. That's not what I mean at all. What a blessing this girl is! I love her so much!!!

She loves to fake laugh and growl.

She is in love with her paci and yogurt melts.

She is a crazy climber and I can't keep up with her!

She flashes the most gorgeous grin ever showing off her crooked little teeth. I love her crooked little teeth!

She says Dada and Mama. She loves to wave and say hi, bye and nigh-nigh. She loves to snuggle and give big open mouth kisses.

Sophie is a big time Daddy's girl, but this Maggie is a Mama's girl and I love it! We call her Maggie-pooh and Magatha. She loves to play peek-a-boo.

Sophie wanted to take Maggie out for a cupcake on her birthday, but it was POURING rain. Nanny and John surprised us by stopping by with a box of cupcakes! We had a little "picnic" inside and both girls thought it was very fun. :)

We had a little party for Maggie on Saturday. She was in such a good mood and was so sweet. I was so thankful... you just never know with little ones!

She didn't want to eat her banana pie. She just wanted to play. So, no messy pictures. boo!

Grammy and Nanny liked Maggie's new toys. :)

So did the boy cousins. ha!

We are so thankful for the family we have and miss the one who isn't here. Gatherings like this are always difficult for me because I ache to see my Daddy with these beautiful little granddaughters he has been blessed with. I ache to see him laugh at their silly little antics. I wonder how it really is for him in heaven and if he is able to know them somehow without feeling loss or sorrow. Sometimes I just let myself go ahead and imagine him there, in glory, watching their silliness down here and laughing. Laughter that comes from pure and perfect joy. Understanding what the big picture is and not being burdened by the sorrows. Someday I will understand. Until then, hope. Faith. Trust. Remembering that God is good and thank Him moment by moment for the blessings and gifts past, present and future.

Today I am thankful to Him for one year with my Maggie. Blessing heaped upon blessing!

Maggie's Temporary Room Redo

2011-02-09T10:44:00.001-08:00

So, in the last post I mentioned that we have had to move Maggie into our extra room for the time being. Although, since her ear drum ruptured a week and a half ago she has been like a new baby! Maybe this will be an even more temporary set up than I thought... Here's hoping!

Anyway, this room was Josh's room when he first bought the house. You know, back when he was a bachelor and could decorate the house however he wanted. Poor guy. :) So, he painted it this very manly mossy green color. The room doesn't get much natural light either so to me it is just very drab. Especially for a kid's room. I did not want to spend any money since this is *temporary*. I did pretty good with that goal... just spend $1 on a can of spray paint. Everything else I already had.

I also did not have anywhere to store the furniture in this room, so I had to try to figure out how to make it useful and not a nuisance. I had purchased a white king sized sheet on clearance for $4 a LONG time ago. It was going to be curtains, but never reached it's curtain destiny. Anyway, I had seen this idea in a book at B&N (I cannot for the life of me remember the name of the book) to turn regular furniture into temporary CUTE play areas. I painted on the windows, cut a slit for the door and tied it open with scraps of fabric (that are stitched onto the sheet). I also used several adhesive strips (you know, the kind that you can peel off the wall without damaging it) to secure the sheet to the sewing table. Voila! Temporary playhouse/toy storage. They love it! To dress up the window, I made a bunting out of scrap fabric and ribbon I already had. So easy!

White canvas that used to be in Sophie's room. Need to do something with it. Maybe cover with fabric or paint something... Ideas?

Keeping my eyes open for ideas/things to put on top of the bookcase. Yikes, didn't notice how much I need to organize the books...

This trunk is one of my favorite pieces of furniture. My parents got this for me for Christmas one year. I love it! I have since added another pillow and plan to make a white bench cushion. The frames were thrift store/garage sale finds that I spray painted. I need to order some pics to put in... or maybe I like the empty frame look. :)

So, that's all I've done so far. Ideas on things I could do to make it not so blah?! I can't repaint right now because I would have no where for Maggie to sleep while the paint fumes dissipated.

Sophie's Room

2011-02-04T18:25:00.000-08:00

So, I have slowly been trying to actually finish decorating the girls room. Then, we decided that Maggie is going to have to have her own room for a while. That girl just will not sleep! ANYWAY, this is "Sophie's" room.

I LOVE built-ins. I wish every room had them.

The little glass bowls serve an actual purpose, besides adding color. I needed a way to jot down milestones/memories of the girls. I kept forgetting to write stuff in their book, so I decided it would be so nice to be able to just write my memory down on a scrap of paper and throw it in their bowl. It has worked out so great!

Fabric flowers. So easy. Wooden skewer, fabric, and hot glue. Twist and glue. Burn your fingers.

I love the way this photo display turned out. I found the giant frame at Hobby Lobby for $12 in the clearance aisle and spray painted it a nickel color. I stretched hemp across the back and stapled it down. Then, I found teeny clothespins at Hobby Lobby. Sophie loves having photos of everyone in her room. I do seriously need to update them and replace the ones that didn't survive her love. I also love the way her quilt turned out! I used the tutorial here, but I cut my own strips instead of using a Jelly Roll. Super easy and fun quilt to make!

I needed something for this wall. I had several blank canvases, so I let Sophie paint her own artwork. Abstract art like this goes for thousands, right?! ha! Well, I love 'em.

So, that is Sophie's room for now. Hopefully someday soon Maggie will make her way back in here. Maggie's current room is still a work in progress. I plan to post photos of that next so maybe people can help me out. It's a tricky one!

All About My Favorite 3 Year Old

2010-12-19T06:49:00.000-08:00

Today my sweet little first born turns 3. On one hand it seems like she has always been a part of our family, but at the same time HOW CAN IT BE THAT SHE IS ALREADY 3?!

I just love her cute little pigtails.

This girl is quite the character. She's lovable and sweet, bossy and sassy, silly and stubborn. She loves music and is currently obsessed with the piano. She loves to dress up like a princess and dance and twirl. Her favorite movies this month are Cinderella and Cars. She likes to pretend like she is giving us beautiful dresses like Cinderella (yes, even her dad). She is SO observant and nothing gets by her. Gotta be careful what you do or say around her! She hates having clothes on. I seriously cannot keep this child clothed, even when it is freezing in here! Let's see. Oh yes, she loves sweets. She can suck down a cookie faster than anyone I've ever seen!

We've outgrown naps, but sometimes the day just catches up with us anyway.

This week she has started just randomly blurting out "Jesus died on the cross". Then, we get to talk about why He died on the cross. Oh, how I pray that she will trust Him as her Savior early in life and enjoy the blessings of living as a child of God!

She has started to look so grown up to me. Definitely not my chunky little baby anymore.

This girl is such a Daddy's girl. It makes my heart so happy to see because it reminds me of me and my Daddy. I know she loves me to and try not to let it hurt my feelings when we come to pick her up somewhere and she shoves me out of the way and jumps into Daddy's arms.

She loves to help him do EVERYTHING... she can't even let him go to the bathroom without hovering outside the door.

We had planned a big birthday party since this would be the first year that she would actually enjoy having other little people there. Unfortunately Maggie caught a stomach bug and Sophie ended up with a sinus infection, double ear infection and pink eye! I feel so bad for my little birthday girl. We had a little *party* for her yesterday with cupcakes and presents and she was still so excited. Josh promises that we will still have the big birthday bash sometime soon after Christmas.

She wanted a black cupcake and a pink one. She just ate the frosting off them.

For her birthday she said she wanted five black presents. Then, she decided she would just like one purple present. Oh how I would love to spend a day in her mind! :) She did get purple princess accessories and a keyboard. I keep catching Josh in her room playing with the keyboard. I knew that would happen! :)

Her *mostly* purple present.

This year I decided to let Sophie get her own Christmas tree. She picked out a bright turquoise Charlie Brown-looking tree. I love it! The ornaments she chose because they looked like cookies. ha! She hangs all the ornaments on the same branch. These things are just so cute to me and I don't want to forget!

And this is definitely a first born/Josh's child thing she does... she is always lining things up. Just another thing I stumble upon a lot while cleaning and it always makes me smile. Something else I want to remember.

Little Nativity set people all lined up on the couch.

Wow. Is this the world's longest post or what?! This is what happens when I don't post forever... and I'm still not done! If you are not family and you have made it this far, I officially give you permission to be bored and move on.

My Pappy had a stroke a few years ago and now has to walk with a cane. While it's something he hates, it is something that Sophie admires and wishes she could do. Isn't it funny, that what we find a burden someone else finds enjoyable and desirable? She likes to pick up anything that she can use as a cane (one time it was even a piece of yarn) and says "Ima Pappy Sophie". Love this girl!

"Ima Pappy Sophie"

Did I mention that she loves to dance? My Mom compared her dancing abilities to that of Miss Piggy. Actually, that's not too far off. She's not the most graceful, but she sure does have fun!

Striking a dance pose.

What a blessing you are to us Sophie Kate. Our world is better because of you and we thank God every day for the gift you are! I loves you!

Memory Quilt

2010-11-19T11:04:00.000-08:00

One day my Dad wore a Christian t-shirt to work. He had so many opportunities that day to talk about the Lord simply because of his shirt. He came home and told me "anytime you buy me a gift, I want it to be a Christian t-shirt!" So, that's what I did. Christmas, birthdays, Father's Day, etc. Since he worked in them, these were about the only two left in "usable" condition. I kept them in a box for a long time, but I really wanted to enjoy them and let them comfort and remind me of that special bond we had. So, I decided to put them into a nice, snuggly quilt. Something I could wrap around me and feel as close to my Daddy as possible. I guess this is as close as I can get to having his arms around me and some days I just need that.

It is a strange combination of comfort and pain that I feel, but I am so thankful to have things that remind me of what we had. I'm not afraid of ever forgetting him, but there are just those days when I just really, really want to be able to pick up the phone and call him. Those are the days that I thank the Lord that I have these tangible items to cling to and remember. It's not always sad. My Dad was a pretty ornery, goofy guy. So, I have lots of memories that bring laughter instead of tears. I guess it just depends on the day... What a blessing it was to have this man as my Dad. I try not to feel cheated or angry over the fact that I only got to enjoy him 26 years. I try not to be jealous of the people who are still getting to enjoy being a Daddy's girl. I'm not always successful, but God is gracious! He is so good to help remind me that we are not made for this world. This is not my home. This was not my Dad's home. Long before my Dad was even made, God knew that I would only have 26 years with this man. My Dad is home and I am so happy for him. I wouldn't *wish* him back for anything in the world.

I tired to find pictures of him in these two shirts. These were the best I could find of each of them. I know you can't really tell in the last one, but he is wearing the "Jesus beat the devil" shirt. It was his *nice* t-shirt. :)

Anyway, I just picked this up from the quilter today. Thanks for letting me share.

Christmas Cards

2010-11-18T11:12:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you, but I am a nut for Christmas-time. One of my favorite things is receiving Christmas cards! I practically pounce on the poor mail guy every day of December and am SO disappointed if there are no Christmas cards.

Of course, this means I also LOVE to send out Christmas cards. I seriously start thinking about them in July and usually know what I want long before Thanksgiving! Of course, the tricky part is getting a photo of our whole family with all eyes open, no tears/sour faces, etc. That's why we've decided it's just worth it to hire a photographer. Since we know SO many of them and are even related to one, it isn't a difficult thing to do!

So, this year I am definitely using Shutterfly for my Christmas card printing! I am all about finding a super deal. I love getting the biggest bang for my buck. That bang is Shutterfly this year with their great prices, great promos and huge selection!

Now, I just have to decide if I want to do a folded card with multiple photos, like the one here.
Or stick with something simple. I do REALLY love the simplicity of this little 5x5 flat card here.

Oh, the decisions. Hopefully I will be able to decide once I get our photos back from the cuz... oh the difficult things I must deal with. ha!

Anyway, if you are like me and want to get the biggest bang for your buck, check out this awesome promo Shutterfly is offering for bloggers!

Thanksgiving Dinner for Little Ones

2010-11-16T06:55:00.001-08:00

I don't know about your kids, but mine loves to pretend! She loves to make us dinner over and over again. So, I decided to make her very own Thanksgiving feast that we can break out each year around this time.

I got several of my ideas from V and Co who has several of these patterns on sale this week!

First we have pasta:

Then of course we must have turkey and carrots:

(I did actually buy the pattern for this one and am glad I did. This week it's on sale for $3.50! It's a pdf file too, so you will have it in your possession in less than 24 hours.) The drumsticks are held on with velcro, so you can pull them off to put on your plate.

Now doesn't that just look like a delicious meal!

And what Thanksgiving dinner would be complete without dessert!

We have berry pie:

I don't have a pattern for this... I just kind of made it up as I went. If anyone is interested, I can make up one though.

And we have cake:

Sophie loves this because she can "frost" her own cake. I didn't actually buy the pattern on this one, but I did get the idea from V and Co.

Sophie is convinced that the carrots are actually birthday candles and likes to play Happy Birthday. I need to just make her some little candles that velcro onto the felt.

Who Else Is In Love With These?!

2010-09-30T06:30:00.001-07:00

I think these giant flowers are so great!

I'm not really a "flower in my hair" kind of person, but wouldn't these look great on a bag, a pillow, or even as a pin for a plain shirt?! I am definitely going to give this tutorial a try soon and hope you might too! Let me know if you do. I'd love to see your creations!

Girl's Dress Tutorial

2010-09-26T17:51:00.000-07:00

I stumbled across this tutorial last week and was so excited! I have been so frustrated trying to find clothes for my girls that didn't cost a ridiculous amount. Plus, I just like having things that are unique and customized. Sophie is turning into a little girly-girl and I have been trying to accommodate that with bows and dresses and shiny shoes. :)

I would consider this a beginner tutorial. It took a little time, but really was so simple! You can change it up in so many ways and all you need are buttons, scrap fabric, elastic and a man's dress shirt. CHEAP. I have $2 in this dress. I like that!

I know this isn't a very good photo, but I had to take it with my phone and it was the best I could get! The dress really is chocolate brown, it just looks purple in the photo.

I used some scrap Amy Butler fabric I had laying around for the waist band with a wide piece of elastic (tacked down so it doesn't flip around), changed out the buttons for some big white ones, and did 3 rows of stitches on the hem to make it look more "finished". I am so pleased with the outcome and had a lot of fun being creative with this tutorial. She really did a great job writing it.

Here is the tutorial I used. She has lots of variations that are so cute! Really the sky is the limit with what you can do with this. I think I might do one with the buttons going up the back and big pockets in the front. I really like this one too. You can also make these for babies using a boys dress shirt. Maggie might end up with a few too. I love that they can wear them with jeans, leggings, or tights when it's cold with a long sleeve shirt underneath. Or just wear it like this when it's warmer.

Anyway, I just wanted to share this great tutorial and hope that some will benefit from it as I have!

Tales of Sophie

2010-09-20T12:55:00.000-07:00

Well, just as I was excited about blogging again my computer flips out and corrupts my photo editing software! Since I shoot in RAW, I can't get any of my pictures off my camera until we take the plunge and buy new software... :( I guess I will just have to post lovely photos from my phone.

Anyway, just some things I want to remember about my Sophie:

She started preschool last week and LOVES it! When I took her on the first day I had to beg for a hug good-bye and then when it was time to go home that afternoon, she wouldn't leave. Her favorite thing was getting to use glue and of course, the playground. I have photos from her first day, but they are on my camera...

Today I picked out her clothes and got her all dressed. She decided that the clothes I chose were just not good enough. They needed accessorizing. So, she added the sparkly tutu.

We have been talking about obedience and how God says in the Bible that little girls and boys are to obey their mommy and daddy. So, yesterday on the way home from Church Sophie says to me "Mommy, God says in da Bible that you haffa obey your Sophie." She's just so funny. I did explain to her that the Bible doesn't say that, but it was still just too cute. I did also hear her behind me telling something that it had to obey it's Sophie. I peaked back to see what exactly she was talking to, and it was her juice. Not sure what it did wrong, but it's been good ever since. :)

What in the World???

2010-09-09T13:41:00.000-07:00

It's been far too long that I have been silent in the blogging world! I know everyone has been mourning the lack of posts, right? ha!

So, for those who do not have Facebook, here are the little lovies that have kept me so busy:

Maggie-pooh, as we call here around here, is 6 months old now. She loves to smile like this. Kills me. She's a handful, and definitely a drama queen! She's starving for real people food, but hates pretty much everything except rice crackers and rolls. She's just about nailed the whole sitting up thing and gets just furious that she can't figure out how to crawl, but Sophie usually comes to the rescue.

Speaking of Sophie...

She finally lets me put pig tails in her hair! Oh how I love a little girl in pig tails. I always tell her she is my favorite Sophie and she likes to remind me, too. She's so silly and always making us laugh. Love her so much. She has a memory like a sponge. Scary, really. She is a bundle of energy! I cannot keep up with her, but try anyways... She's getting ready to start preschool, which will be so great for all of us! She loves to learn and play with other kids. Hopefully she will love it as much as she loves Sunday School. (It's her favorite place to be - really. She cries if we have to run by the Church on a weekday and then leave.) She's almost potty trained! Wahoo!!! We just have to master the whole #2 thing and overcome her fear of other people's toilets.

My house is usually a disaster area and I'm a mess, but it only overwhelms me about every-other-day... I'm realizing more and more every day that it is the things that matter for eternity that are important and not all that other little stuff! Day by day the Lord teaches us how to become more like Him if we just listen and OBEY! T & O as my Dad would say. (that's Trust & Obey for those who don't know)

Taking a Break.

2009-10-10T12:02:00.000-07:00

In case anyone even checks this poor little blog anymore, I thought I would FINALLY make another post. 3 months is probably a long time to go without making a post, huh?!

Thankfully I am past the horribly miserable part of this pregnancy and hoping to enjoy the last few months before baby #2 makes an appearance!

I have lots and lots of projects that I am determined to finish. It is my goal to have NO UNFINISHED PROJECTS by the time baby comes (end of February-ish). With that in mind, I have decided to take a semi-permenant break from custom orders. As much fun as it is to make them, I just don't think I can do that at this time in my life. Someday. When I have older kids, millions of dollars, and my own shop... oh, sorry. I momentarily stepped into dream land.

The focus of this blog will now be tips, tutorials, "show and tell", and other fun stuff like that.

Quilt Club - Optional Applique`

2009-07-07T17:41:00.000-07:00

I'm so sorry it has taken me so long to post this. We have been so busy with the holiday and such.

So, here is my optional applique for our quilt. I just felt like mine needed a little more too it... I like the way these flowers turned out and they were really simple!

First, choose which fabrics you would like to use. You will need a VERY thin fusible interfacing also. You can use anything you can find to trace your circles. I used a water bottle, a bowl, and a large cup for the flowers on the right. I just "eyeballed" the one on the left. Anyway, trace your various sized circles onto the wrong side of your fabric.

Now, sew your interfacing to your fabric with right sides facing each other (right side of the interfacing is the sticky side). I did mine by hand because I just find it a pain to sew a good circle with the sewing machine. You just have to go so slow! Make sure that your stitches are really small and close together. You don't want to leave any big gaps or you won't get a good circle.

Cut a slit in the interfacing.

Flip right side out. Now your seam is hidden and the sticky side of the interfacing is on the other side and ready to fuse to your quilt.

Turn off the steam setting on your iron and fuse your "flowers" down. I laid my ric rac slightly under each flower so that it would get fused down as well.

I used a button hole stitch to officially attach my flowers to my quilt. You could also use a hidden stitch or even more simple would be to use a tight zig zag stitch on your sewing machine. I was going for the scrappy/country look and the button hole stitch suited that best. Some sewing machines actually have this stitch setting which is so nice. Mine unfortunately does not.

To attach the ric rac, I just used a coordinating thread and used medium sized stitches. Very simple.

New Quilt Post Coming Soon

2009-07-02T14:58:00.000-07:00

My goodness, I'm behind. I know I was supposed to post the next step in assembling our quilt, but I just haven't had a chance to upload all my photos! I promise to try to get it done before the holiday weekend.

My to do list is growing like crazy!

-post new quilt assembly tutorial
-quilt my quilt club quilt and make tutorial as I go
-bind my quilt club quilt and make tutorial as I go
-quilt and bind my "Daddy" quilt (photos soon to come)
-quilt and bind Sophie's quilt that I was supposed to have done for her 1st b-day (see, I'm behind!)
-make a little man's b-day blanket
-assemble, quilt and bind Sophie's bug blanket that she picked out (yes she really did pick the fabric out herself. she saw it as we were standing in line and went crazy over it, wouldn't let it go, and kept shouting BUG over and over again. how can you say no?!)
-1 tote bag order to fill
-2 purse orders to fill and one more possibly coming

There are so many more things I want to try to make, but clearly don't have time! I have made a promise to myself that I will not start any new (personal) projects until I finish these. We'll see. :)

Assembling Your Quilt Part 2

2009-06-24T17:05:00.000-07:00

***Correction to Cutting Fabric here***
(Inner Border Strip should be 15" x 2" instead of 12 1/2" x 2")

Before you begin here, go make sure your 9 center squares are SQUARE. Very important!

Also, I think I forgot to mention last time to press your seams down. Some people like to press them open, others like to press them all one direction. I will leave it up to you.

Okay, so let's begin with part 2:
-Take your two 2" x 15" inner border pieces. Sew one on each side of your 9 block center square.

-Press! And if it looks like you need to, square up.
-Now take your two 2" x 18" inner border pieces. Sew one on top and one on bottom.

-Press! Square up!
-Repeat above steps with your outer border pieces.
(you don't have to square up at the end this time because we will do that again after the quilting is done)

Next week I will show you how to do an optional applique you can add to your border. Since mine is white on white, I just felt like it needed a little something more. You may like yours just like it is. That's why it's optional... :) I will also show you how to QUILT your quilt. You can always find someone in your area to do it professionally for you, but really it's not too difficult to do this size of quilt with your sewing machine (or by hand if you're really ambitious).

And sorry for the crummy photos again... I promise to start making sure I can take them during the day so they don't look so crazy!

New Quilt Post Coming Soon

2009-06-24T08:38:00.000-07:00

I've been out of town and crazy busy, but I promise that I will post the next steps in your quilt assembly later today!

We will be attaching our small and large borders, so make sure you've got them cut! Back in a few hours...

Show It Off

2009-06-18T10:33:00.000-07:00

Ruth posted her fabric selection for our quilt club here. Check it out! Really, really cute!

Anyone else working on their quilt and have pictures to share? If you have a blog, post 'em and let me know so I can link to them. If not, you can email them to me and I will post them here.

This will be so much more fun if we can see each other's creations come together!

Assembling Your Quilt Part 1

2009-06-17T15:23:00.000-07:00

So, has anyone started working on their quilt yet? My Mom gave me some great fat quarters and I immediately knew they were going in my quilt. I was really on a roll the other night and got everthing cut out and even sewed a lot of it together! I stopped periodically and took pictures so I could add them in with the "tutorials". Although, it was night and I had to use the flash... I hate using my flash. Oh well.

So, once you have all your pieces cut out it's assembly time! Let's start with the center blocks. Take your nine 5 1/2 inch blocks and lay them out in the order you want them to appear in your quilt. Sew them togeter in strips of three like this:

Now, no matter how hard you try, you are bound to get these a little crooked. So, square up each strip (make sure you have straight lines across all sides).

Then, sew your stips together making sure your center squares all line up.

Now, you want to square this up as well. Trust me. It's worth the extra time in the end!

Wow, these really are yucky photos. Sorry. I hope you got the general idea here!

So, any questions so far?

Quilt Club

2009-06-10T11:22:00.000-07:00

So, what do you think about this for our "group quilt" project?

Obviously these aren't the colors I would use, but I just wanted to give you the idea of where each block is. I will probably use a different piece of fabric for each center block and use something coordinating for the skinny center border and the binding around the edge of the quilt. Then, I will probably use a white on white for the large outer border. I like the way that looks. I am also going to do a simple applique to "embellish" this quilt a little. That will be towards the end and will be purely optional.

You can make this quilt as large or as small as you want which should be fairly simple since it is square. The measurements I am going to provide are for a 42" x 42" finished quilt. This is a perfect baby size quilt.

So, let's start out with what I think is the most difficult part. Picking out fabric and cutting it.

Measurements for fabric:
Outer border fabric - 1 1/2 yards
Inner border and binding fabric - 1/2 yard
Blocks - 5 1/2 inches each (9 blocks) (1/2 yard total)
(most fabric stores sell Fat Quarters which would be great for doing your blocks)
Backing fabric - 1 1/3 to be safe

Cutting your fabric:
From Outer Border Fabric
(2) 42 1/2" x 12 1/2"
(2) 12 1/2" x 18 1/2"

From Inner Border Fabric
(2) 2" x 18 1/2"
(2) 2" x 15"
(3) 2 1/2" x 42" (binding strips)

Blocks
(9) 5 1/2" x 5 1/2"

Here is a chart of the pieces you are cutting. Now these are the cutting measurements and not the "finished" measurements.

I HIGHLY recommend purchasing a rotary cutter and mat. If you have a Hobby Lobby or Joann's fabrics, you can often find a great 40% off coupon which would be a big help since these aren't cheap. They are worth the money though! If you can't invest in these things, you can always get a fabric pencil and draw lines on the back of your fabric as cutting guides. It is so important to cut your pieces straight. Your quilt will go together so much easier if you have your pieces cut correctly.

Quilt Club

2009-06-04T13:34:00.000-07:00

Would anyone be interested in learning how to make a simple quilt? We could do it over a few months adding a step every week. If there was a group of us doing this together, we could share questions and tips... and of course photos of our progress.

I would post the weekly tutorial and you could add your tips or questions in the comments section. Then, we could have "show and tell" at the end with photos of you with your finished quilt.

So, any takers? I think this would be so much fun! I have a few really simple quilt ideas that could still have a lot of personality with the right fabric choice and possibly some optional embelishments.

Even if you have very limited sewing skills, you could still definitely participate. It would be a great chance to practice sewing a straight line! I still have a hard time with that... :)

Ah, Fabric... How I Love Thee.

2009-05-29T13:02:00.000-07:00

So, I decided to start posting about fabric on Fridays. You know Fabric on Friday. You'd think I'd be more creative... I'm not.

I have all this beautiful fabric and visions of what I will do with it. Now, if I could just produce time I could actually do some of these things!

I picked this bright piece at a local fabric shop. Isn't is so pretty and summery?! I love it!

I'm really loving yellow these days and instantly fell in love with this one. I think my original intent was to make myself a purse out of this. Maybe someday. Or maybe someone else with a love for yellow will snatch it up for a purse for themselves someday. Or I will just keep it in my stash and stare at it from time to time. I think I have a sickness. I mean really?!

Introducing...

2009-05-28T11:19:00.000-07:00

Sugar Booger Bucks work like cash towards any custom or premade item.

For every person you refer to Sugar Booger Designs you will receive Sugar Booger Bucks when that person makes a purchase.

You will receive $5 in Sugar Booger Bucks for the first referral and $2 in Sugar Booger Bucks for each referral after that.

These will not expire, so you can choose to use them as soon as you get them or save them up until you have enough to get a free item!

Terrible Blogger!

2009-05-27T11:37:00.000-07:00

Wow, I continue to be a terrible blogger! Yikes... so sorry. May has been crazy just like it is ever year. I promise to do better in June!

To show you just how sorry I am, I am having a sale! All pillows in my shop are $9.99 and this little pretty is only $17.50! Hop on over and check it out.

Also, I need your help. I have been trying to decide if I like my original logo or if I want to go with something a little different. I love the simple look of the original, but I also really like this new one.

What do you guys think? (I put a "poll" over on the right sidebar, so go cast a vote please!)

Original:

New:

Black Shoulder Bag

2009-05-18T17:58:00.000-07:00

I just listed this great new shoulder bag in my shop. I love the way it turned out! I gave this one slightly different pleats than what I have been doing and didn't round the corners.

I LOVE this fabric! It's almost a charcoal color rather than black, but it looks great as an accessory to black. I am currently trying to make myself a more "mommy friendly" bag using this fabric. I can't wait to finish it. It will have lots of great pockets and pleats, of course.

Latest Projects.

2009-05-11T15:42:00.000-07:00

So, my Mom's birthday was last week. My poor Mom. You'd think I could come up with something other than a purse to give her for her birthday, but no... apparently I can't think of anything better!

It did turn out pretty cool though. The solid fabric is linen and I love the way it looks!

Then, I decided that it was crazy that I don't even carry one of my own purses and had to make myself this little treat:

Handmade Gift Tags

2009-05-02T18:52:00.000-07:00

In keeping with the Mother's Day theme, I thought these would be a fun and easy project. I found this tutorial over at The Purl Bee and plan on whipping out a few of these next week. I don't think I will do the little pom-poms... not a big fan of those, but the fabric tags are great! I plan on just using white cardstock for the back. This will be a great way to use up some of my scrap fabric that I just can't bring myself to throw away.

Gift Certificates

2009-05-01T12:36:00.000-07:00

A good friend (who is also my biggest customer - love ya, Jenn) suggested I make gift certificates available. So, I have added a Paypal button to the right of your screen with four different values of gift cards to choose from. Shipping is free and I can ship directly to you or to the gift recipient!

Mother's Day Ideas

2009-04-29T12:17:00.000-07:00

Around here we are all about homemade gifts for Mother's Day. We really want to teach our children that it's not about the money you put into a gift, but the thought and love you express to the recipient.

So, I am always on the lookout for fun ideas to keep "on file" for the days when they can help create, or that I can use for gifts I give out too.

Here are a few I stumbled across today that I think look so neat (note-to find the tutorials to these 3, click on the name of the blog they came from... you can barely tell they are a link, so I wanted to point that out):

Clothes Pin Magnets from Pin and Paper

Chunky Book from Memory Makers Masters. I thought this would be fun to put photos, recipes, poems, verses, or just about anything.

I'm all about cute containers to serve as your "gift wrapping". I love the way it looks to have things all arranged in a cute basket instead of just stuck in a box and wrapped. These containers from The Sometimes Crafter look so simple and would be SO cute with little soaps, lotions and maybe a candle. Or you could put your Chunky Book and Magnetic Clothes Pins in one...

Just a few simple ideas for you crafties out there.

So, what are all of you planning to do for your Mom's this Mother's Day? Do you have any special traditions you keep?

The Tassel Tutorial

2009-04-28T13:13:00.000-07:00

Ruth had asked if we could give a swing at making tassels. So, I gave it a shot and it was actually really simple and CHEAP! Love that word. Let me also say that this project is all about using what you already have on hand.

So, here is your Tassel Tutorial:

Supplies Needed:

-hot glue gun (and glue)

-scrap fabric (you could also use ribbon, yarn, fringe, or all of the above)

-plastic or cardboard circle (as big or small as you want - mine is plastic and approx. 2 3/4")

-fringe (1/4 yard was perfect for my size of circle)

-topper (whatever your heart desires)

-ribbon, twine, or hemp (this will be what you tassel hangs by - I used really thick hemp)

Gather up all your supplies first so you don't have glue melting all over the place! Plug in your glue gun so it can start getting all warm and melty.

Since I was trying to just use mostly what I had on hand, my circle was actually the lid off a thing of Gerber Puffs. I guess I'm being "green" here today and recycling! Woohoo!!!

Here is my pretty fringe. Not on sale at Hobby Lobby, but I had a 40% off coupon making my 1/4 yard about $.75. There were cheaper options, but this was just so pretty.

Since I sew alot, I always have these scrap pieces of fabric. I save them just because they are perfect for projects like these. I went with a pretty neutral pallet, but mixed it up with plaids, stripes, polka dots, flowers and solids.

You will want to rip these into 1/4" to 1/2" strips. No need to be accurate, in fact, it looks better to have every piece different. Gives it a more scrappy look. You can throw in ribbon, yarn, fringe, or whatever you have around. I stuck with fabric because I was really liking the way it looked. Use as much or as little as you want. It's your tassel, so make it skinny or make it puffy. Just start ripping and occasionally pick up your pile and hold it up to your circle to see what it looks like. The length is also a matter of taste. Although, remember that you are going to be folding these in half, so make sure they are at least long enough to do that.

Okay, now that we have all our supplies gathered and our glue all melty. Let's get started with assembly. BTW, this really is a quick project. 15 to 20 minutes (unless your child wakes up in the middle, or you have to take lots of pictures which requires you to hunt all over the house for good lighting...)

Let's make the top first. Since my "circle" was not flat, I took a scrap piece of felt and cut it the same size as the circle. I also cut a scrap piece of muslin to the same size.

Hot glue the felt down first, then the muslin. I just did glue around the edge and that was sufficient.

Now, gather up your ripped fabric like this:

(hard shot to take, BTW, with a 50mm. My arm just almost wasn't long enough.)

Take your hemp (or whatever you're using) and tie two knots as shown in the photo below.

Find the center of your circle and poke a hole just big enough for your hemp to fit through.

Thread the hemp loop through the hole and tie a knot to keep it in place.

Now, take your fringe and hot glue it around the edge of your circle. For some reason I didn't end up with a photo for this step... Well, it's pretty easy. Just do it slowly. Glue a small portion, let it dry, then glue a little more. You will get a nice, neat fringe border this way.

Hot glue on your topper.

Now, you can hang your tassel and trim the fabric so that it is not quite so unruly.

Remember that you want this to look kind of "scrappy", so don't be too uniform about this. I basically just trimmed the really long pieces and then made some of the pieces right next to my fringe a little shorter. It kind of gave it a tapered look.

Then, stand back and admire her. I have to admit that I'm not really a tassel kind of person, but this was a fun project and I actually really like it!

Just a few things:
Obviously this tassel is a tad too big for a lamp, but great for a door knob. Just keep that in mind when you are making yours and scale it down a bit if you want a lamp tassel.

Be creative! You could easily use a cute ornament and just cut of the loop on your hemp, hot glue the ornament on top of that, and thread something through the ring on top of the ornament. Skies the limit here people. Go nuts!

Also, remember that this can be a REALLY cheap project. I think mine cost $1.00 total because I used mostly things I had on hand. If you do need to buy something, watch for sales or sign up for coupons from a craft/fabric store. Hobby Lobby runs great sales, but they also have 40% coupons on their website about every other week. Joanns Fabrics is another great place to shop and if you sign up for their mailer you get GREAT coupons every couple of weeks.

And The Winner Is...

2009-04-23T05:12:00.000-07:00

Kari!

I will get your apron in the mail today!!!

Thanks for all the feedback. It was all really helpful and I am excited to get going on some of this.
Since Delana mentioned the need for glove bunnies, I wanted to take this time to introduce Dingleberry Bunny. Isn't he silly and cute?!

I will try to have this little guy up on Etsy sometime today.

***Dingleberry is now up for grabs on Etsy***

Okay. Here it is.

2009-04-20T13:44:00.000-07:00

This week, I will be giving away the funky apron.

How do you win? Simple. Leave me a comment and tell me something you would like to see on this blog. You can be specific, like "how to make underwear for my dog", or just tell me you really could care less what I post about. I'll still enter you in the drawing. And you with the underwear wearing dog... I will make fun of you.

Also, if you make a post about this on your blog, come back and let me know and I will enter your name a second time!

I have been such a bad blogger and really want to change that. I want to have something great to post at least 3 times a week! So, give me your ideas. Help give me inspiration. Just help!

Let's say all comments must be left by midnight Wednesday. I will announce the winner first thing Thursday morning!

I Feel Famous!

2009-04-17T13:06:00.000-07:00

Check this out! I have been featured on another blog... and for some reason that makes me feel famous! I know, I'm silly. It is cool though!

Rebecca Peters is a great photographer who I have just had the privilege of working with. You should definitely check out her great photography!

Coming up soon (I PROMISE): a GREAT giveaway. I have to finish up a current project and then I will be ready to give something fun away.

HUGE SALE

2009-04-11T15:06:00.001-07:00

Check out the HUGE markdown in my Etsy shop!

All pillows are on sale for $12.50 and aprons are only $14.99!!!

If you live in the Tulsa area and want to purchase something, please contact me first so we can arrange a delivery/pick up option so you don't have to pay shipping costs!

To Order

2009-04-06T08:54:00.000-07:00

A few people have asked how to order custom items from Sugar Booger Designs. Simply email me at sugarboogerdesigns@gmail.com and I will respond within 24 hours (I promise)!

It will be much easier to discuss specifics - like color, size, cost and so on. I can also send you photos of fabric samples to allow you to really customize your item!

Looking forward to working with you!!!

Sorry.

2009-04-05T12:51:00.000-07:00

Wow. I didn't mean to neglect my blog for so long. Life has been so busy lately!

Here's a little something I have been working on. I love the way this bag turned out! Someone (Wendy) needs to come get this before I decide to keep it for myself!

Now, off to finish two more of these and pick up fabric to make a whole mess of table runners. Woo hoo!

SALE, SALE, SALE

2009-03-19T06:57:00.000-07:00

I just finished doing a major markdown in my shop! Drastic reductions on just about everything!!! I have to make way for new and fun things...

New Addition to the Handbag Collection

2009-03-13T17:46:00.000-07:00

I love this new handbag! Another that I am tempted to keep for myself... I would drown in handbags if Josh didn't give me that look everytime I got a new one!

So, I added this to my Etsy shop so I wouldn't be tempted!

Tutorial

2009-03-12T10:12:00.000-07:00

There is another great tutorial by Vanessa at V and Co. posted on the Moda Bake Shop site. I love her style and her tutorials are GREAT! This is so simple and so cute. Even if you aren't an Easter basket kind of person, you could make a few of these and use them as gift baskets. How cute would this be with little baby stuff arranged in it?! I am definitely going to make a few.

If you make one, let me know! I'd love to show off your creativity!

Coming sometime this week: Bandana skirts for little girls - Cheap and so cute!

Pillow Parade

2009-03-10T05:55:00.000-07:00

I'm joining in on the Pillow Parade here. Check out this blog when you have time. They are such a neat sister decorating team!

These pillows are currently featured in my Etsy shop.

Aprons!

2009-03-06T12:10:00.000-08:00

Well, I thought I loved the way the full aprons turned out, but now I am back in love with the half apron... Maybe I just love all aprons. They are just so fun!

I LOVE the way this one turned out! I love the color/pattern combo and the pleats! Oh, the pleats. Aprons and pleats. Yum. (I am officially a freak.)

See the yummy pleats?!

I even added pleats here for crying out loud!

Now, originally I hated this fabric. I hung on to it anyway and eventually it grew on me. I'm so glad I kept it because now I love it! I made a tote bag out of this too and it was really great, but someone already snatched it up.

Anyway, these little treats are now up for sale on Etsy. We shall see...

New Look

2009-03-06T05:50:00.000-08:00

So, what do you think of my new look?! I LOVE IT!!! I think it is just so me.

For Sale

2009-03-03T17:10:00.000-08:00

Well, things didn't go so hot in the Tulsa market (I'm speaking of my booth). So, I've decided to just go with Etsy and special requests. If you'll notice the photo of Randy Dog to the right... simply click on him and you will be redirected to my Etsy shop.

I don't have much listed yet. I am slowly adding things as I am able. I hope to have quite a few more things listed by the end of the week. So, check back then!

Also, this blog will have a new look hopefully tomorrow... hence the boring look right now. If you are looking for a great new look for a very reasonable price, check out Simply Yours. I love her style and am so excited to have this new look!

Giveaway at V and Co.

2009-03-02T05:53:00.001-08:00

Vanessa at V and Co. is doing a giveaway (see photo above). I LOVE Moda fabric. So pretty!
(she's the one who did the awesome rag rug tutorial.)

Under Construction...

2009-02-27T20:35:00.000-08:00

A Few New Pretties

2009-02-26T18:52:00.000-08:00

I LOVE THIS FABRIC! Ah. It's just so pretty.

Trying out a little non-pleated action. I like it this way too. No, I think I like the pleats best. But the inside of this one is kinda fun:

Both of those are already sold. I was so sad to have to sell that first one.

This one is still available:

I love the Oriental fabric (has kind of a shimmer to it on the gold areas) and the handles are wooden! Love it.

Rag Rug

2009-02-24T05:55:00.000-08:00

I can't wait to make one of these rag rugs! Thanks for pointing me in the direction of this blog, Shaw na! I LOVE IT!!!

A No-Sew Project

2009-02-20T06:33:00.000-08:00

My friend Ruth posted this fun no-sew, pillow project that you have to check out.

She also just had a baby girl! Congrats Nate and Ruth! We're so thankful your sweet girl arrived safely!

New Creation

2009-02-17T10:47:00.000-08:00

I love this new clutch! I even had to keep this one for myself. I can't wait to make more and see if others love it as much as I do!

Valentine #10: Fortune Cookies

2009-02-12T20:02:00.000-08:00

These were so fun and cheap!

All you need are a few sheets of felt, floral wire and thread.

Cut a 3" circle out of your felt. Cut a piece of floral wire that is a little less than 3" (you don't want it to hang over the edge) and sew to the center of the circle.

Grab ends of wire with index finger and thumb and fold down until you get a nice bend in your "cookie". You will have to mess with it a bit to get it to look like a fortune cookie.

Print off a "fortune" of love, clip and insert in your "cookie". You could do love verses, jokes, saucy little love "fortune" for your hubby... the possibilities are endless!

I found the little chinese takeout box at Michaels for $.89 and it will hold 3 "cookies". BTW, don't leave it where your 1 year old can get it... she will chew on it!

Valentine #9: Martha Stewart

2009-02-11T06:06:00.000-08:00

Check out MarthaStewart.com for some really great V-day crafts like these.

Valentine #8: Felt Hearts

2009-02-11T06:02:00.000-08:00

April sent me this link yesterday and I thought this would make a great Valentine. I love the way they put them in a box like candy (you'll have to click on the link to see those). This could also be a great kid project.

Valentine #7: Make Your Own Flower Bouquet

2009-02-10T06:49:00.000-08:00

(photo taken by April Nienhuis)

Well, I know I fell behind a few days. I took the weekend off and then yesterday I couldn't get anything to post. Frustrating. Anyway, we're up and running again today!

So, I made this bouquet of flowers for April for her birthday last year, but I thought these would be a fun V-day gift too. I got the template for the "flower" from Amy Butler's free patterns, but I keep getting an error on that part of her site. You could easily make your own thought. You could even just make them round.

Cut a smaller "flower" for the front out of one piece of scrapbook paper and cut a larger "flower" for the back our of a contrasting piece of paper. Take a pen and sort of wrap the ends around the pen to give it a little bit of a curl. Then, I just layered the two "flowers" and sewed a button on. I took silver floral wire (the sturdier kind) and wrapped one end around the thread between the two "flowers". Make one or a bunch and put in some sort of bottle or vase. I think they are so cute!

Valentine #6: Decorations

2009-02-06T06:29:00.001-08:00

Okay, I'm not really into decorating for V-Day, but I thought some of you might be. So, here is a cute little craft from a link that Ruth sent me. It's another one you can do on the cheap. I like cheap!

Obviously, you could do this to suit your taste whether that would be frilly, funky, simple, or whatever.

Valentine #5: Heat Packs

2009-02-04T15:41:00.001-08:00

I think these would be great for your Mom, or if you have a hubby that gets sore muscles/headaches a lot. They are SUPER simple and can be done on the cheap.

For this you will need muslin, cotton, rice, and mint flavored tea.

1. Prewash and dry your fabric. Then, iron.

2. Cut fabric:
For eye heat pack - cut two 10.5x4.5 panels of muslin and two 10.5x4.5 panels of cotton print.
For larger heat pack - cut two 12x15 panels of muslin and two 12x15 panels of cotton print.

3. Assemble pieces:
For eye heat pack - sew two muslin panels together (leaving a small opening to pour in rice) using a 1/2" seam. Turn right side out and fill with 1 1/2 to 2 cups of rice (I used 2 and it was almost too full). Cut open two tea bags and add just the tea to rice. Stitch opening closed with sewing machine (doesn't have too look perfect since this will be covered).
Sew two cotton print fabrics with right sides together using a little less than a 1/2" seam (leaving one of the smaller ends open). Turn right side out and insert rice pack. Turn open ends under and hand stitch closed.

For larger heat pack - sew two muslin panels together (leaving a small opening to pour in rice) using a 1/2" seam. Turn right side out and fill with about 3 lbs of rice (or less). Cut open 4 tea bags and add just the tea to rice. Stitch opening closed with sewing machine. Sew two cotton print fabrics with right sides together using a little less than a 1/2" seam (leaving an opening about 4-6 inches wide). Turn right side out and insert rice pack. Turn open ends under and hand stitch closed.

You could just stack and tie a ribbon around the two, or put them in a basket with some candles and chocolate... whatever strikes your fancy.

These would also make great Mother's Day gifts or get well gifts.

Valentine #4: Butterflies for the Kiddos

2009-02-04T06:16:00.000-08:00

I don't know that kids would enjoy making these, but I think they would like getting them.

Valentine #3: Something Simple for the Kids

2009-02-03T06:20:00.001-08:00

I thought the kids might like making something like this.

Valentine #2: Make Your Own Candy Box

2009-02-02T06:32:00.000-08:00

I love this idea. You wouldn't necessarily have to make your own box, but you could cover a box you already have with wrapping paper, scrapbook paper or even fabric. The part I like is putting the cupcake cups in the box with different kinds of unique candies.

***Sorry about the funky look of my blog. I am working on fixing the problem.***

Valentine #1 Custom Candy Bar

2009-02-01T06:01:00.000-08:00

I found this idea a year or so ago and thought it was such a cute idea. This is one of those that could work for any recipient and is SO simple!

Looking for Input

2009-01-30T14:29:00.001-08:00

Well, I am swamped and loving it. I love the feeling of being busy, but not stressed. I love always having a project, one that I actually want to work on. Sophie has enjoyed playing in the sewing room. She pulls all the books of the bookshelves, drags out all my fabric and tries to "wear" it. Ric Rac is her favorite. She puts in on like a necklace and says "ah" (like "aren't I so pretty"). Such a fun age!

Anyway, on to the title of this post. I want your input on Valentine ideas. I want to try to do a different post each day for the first 14 days in February. Each will be a different Valentine craft idea. It could be to make a gift for you hubby, kid, parent, or even a craft that your kid could do with you. I'm looking for anything you can give me! If you want to post it on your blog and send me an email (sugarboogerdesigns@gmail.com) to let me know I can link to your site, that would be great too.

I have a few ideas swirling in my head, but not 14. Help me. Please. Thank you.

Maybe we should have a contest. I could let you guys vote for the best "submitted" Valentine idea. These ideas would have to be something we can make (this could be an idea you got from the internet or a magazine... you don't HAVE to come up with all by yourself). We could vote on Valentines Day and I will give away something fun to the winner! There is a pole to the right. Let me know if you think this would be fun or dumb.

I'm For Sale!

2009-01-29T08:30:00.000-08:00

Starting February 1st I will officially have things for sale! Yeah!

I will be opening a booth (well, wall really) at the River City Trading Post in Jenks, OK. I'm starting out small to see how my stuff does in the Tulsa/Jenks market.

I plan on opening up an Etsy shop within the next month or so. It will all depend on how well I do in the local market.

I'm so excited. and nervous.

And here is another snuggly creature. I think I'm going to call this one Sophie Bear.

Randy Dog

2009-01-26T15:59:00.000-08:00

In honor of my Dad's birthday today, I wanted to introduce you to Randy Dog. Isn't he so cute?! I just love him and hope to find a happy home for him soon!

We Have a Winner

2009-01-24T15:35:00.000-08:00

Well, it was a close race. I made him make sure he showed no partiality (meaning he couldn't pick someone just because they were family, but he also couldn't NOT pick them because they were family)... There were two jokes that he really liked, so we had to go with the one that made him laugh the hardest the first time he read it. So, Robin (aka Mom), you are our winner.

This was a fun contest! I'm definitely going to have to do this again (maybe we'll do most embarrassing moments).

Finished Tote Bag and Contest

2009-01-21T14:29:00.000-08:00

***Time is up! I will announce the winner of our little contest later today... have to get my "judge" up out of bed first.***

Okay, sorry for not having this with the last post, but here is what the finished Tote Bag looks like. I added a little embelishment because it's just what I do...

Notice that the straps are pretty long and you can fit a LOT of stuff in here. I like it that way, but you could easily make it a little smaller with shorter straps. Just knock a couple inches off here and there. Just remember that it's not really going to be as wide as you cut it since you will be giving it a square bottom. Hmmm, that would be a funny google search... square bottom.

Since the last thing I need are more tote bags, I've decided to give this one away. I know it isn't anything fancy, but we are women and must face the fact that we all have an obsession with bags! So, leave me a comment with your corniest joke. I will let Josh be the judge. Whoever's joke he laughs the loudest at will be our winner! Bring on the corny!

***EDIT*** I forgot to set a deadline for entering your corny joke. Let's say midnight Friday.

Tote Bag - Tutorial

2009-01-20T16:28:00.000-08:00

For this project you will need the following:

-¾ yard fabric for main panels and straps (I used Home Décor fabric because it is a little more sturdy)
-½ yard fabric for lining
Now if you have a great piece of fabric that you want to use, and it is lightweight just get some heavy fusible interfacing (¾ of a yard to be safe).
-Straight pins
-Sewing machine
-Rotary cutter and mat
-Iron and Magic Sizing
-Ruler
-Sharpie
-Turning tool (hemostat)

Step One – Iron and cut all fabric
Make sure all your fabric is neatly pressed for accurate measurements. I use Magic Sizing and the steam setting on my iron to get the best possible press.

Cut 2 panels measuring 15” x 18” out of your main fabric
Cut 2 straps measuring 3” x 36” out of your main fabric
Cut 2 panels measuring 15” x 18” out of your lining fabric
(if you are using lightweight fabric) Cut 2 panels measuring 15” x 18” out of your heavy interfacing and 2 straps measuring 3” x 36”

(always gotta have a Dr. Pepper handy, too. I just work better that way!)

Let’s pause for just a moment to talk about rotary cutting. I HIGHLY recommend a self-healing mat and rotary cutter to anyone who plans on sewing even on a semi-frequent basis. It makes assembly so much easier when you have perfectly square and straight pieces of fabric. The book Rotary Magic is a great reference tool for learning how to properly use a rotary cutter. I bet you can check it out at your local library.

Okay, back to the project.

Step Two – Assemble exterior of bag
(If using interfacing, now is when you would fuse your interfacing to your straps and main panels following the manufacturers instructions.)

Press straps in half length-wise with right sides together.

Stitch ¼” seam down the length of the strap (make sure to back-stitch at each end)

Turn right side out. It really helps if you have one of these… they are wonderful!

Press and topstitch on both edges.

Repeat with second strap.

Lay main panels with right sides together, matching up all sides.
Pin on 2 longest sides and across one short side.
Stitch a ½” seam around the 3 pinned sides.

Press seams open.

Step Three – Making square bottom (this is the only tricky part…)
Take your main panels that you just sewed together and fold to make side seam with bottom seam (making a folded triangle). Pin in place.

Now, take your ruler and measure 2 ½” up from the corner. Make a mark.

Next, take your ruler and lining it up with your 2 ½” mark, draw a 5” line across the folded triangle.

Sew across your line twice for stability.
Trim off excess about ½” from your stitch line.

Repeat on other side.
Flip bag right side out.

(this is the look you are going for)

Step Four – Attach straps
Measure 2 ½” from right side seam and pin one end of one strap. Measure 2 ½” from left side seam and pin other end of strap. Make sure that your strap isn’t twisted.

Stitch ½” seam twice for stability.
Repeat for second strap on other side of bag.

Step Five – Sew lining
Lay lining panels with right sides together, matching up all sides.
Pin on 2 long sides and across one short side.
Stitch a ½” seam around the 3 pinned sides, but leave about a 6” opening across the bottom.
Press seams open.

Now repeat step three for making square bottom.

Leave wrong side out.

Step Six – Assemble bag
Place main bag inside lining with straps tucked in. Pin across the top, making sure to match up the side seams of the bag with the lining.

Stitch a ½” seam twice for stability.

Pull main bag through hole in lining.

Stitch opening closed. Try to stitch this as close to the edge as possible.

Tuck lining into main bag and press around the top.

Topstitch a ¼” seam around the top and you have just made your own tote bag!

(And believe it or not, I didn't take a finished shot! Good grief. I will post that in the morning... I promise!)

Great List of Tutorials

2009-01-16T11:26:00.000-08:00

Visit this site for a great list of tutorials!

This weekend I hope to post a tutorial on making a really simple tote bag. So, stay tuned...

Finally!

2009-01-08T09:22:00.000-08:00

Here are a few of my finished projects:

(You can find the pattern here. These were super easy and fun! Instead of styrofoam balls I used plastic beads I found on clearance at JoAnns. They are heavier which I liked, plus a LOT cheaper!)

(Don't you just love the little manikin? It's one of my favorite things! Mom bought it for me at an antique shop in AR a few years ago.)

The hourglass pillow turned out great! I love it! However, the snow mum pillow... not so much. For the "mum" you were supposed to fuse together two layers of felt. I found that the felt would not stay fused together neatly and also that my sewing machine would not sew the pleat on the petals because it was too thick (and I have a nice machine). I had to pleat them by hand, which took way too much time! I think it would probably be okay to just do single layered felt for the petals, but I was too frustrated to try. Maybe another day.

So, I highly recommend the necklace and hourglass pillow patterns! I found both to be very clearly written patterns that were also somewhat simple to make.

Good Intentions

2009-01-06T19:20:00.000-08:00

Well, I had such good intentions of posting really regularly on this blog. **sigh** I've been playing nurse to my little sicky and well, it's just really hard to sew with one hand!

I do have several completed projects, but haven't had a chance to photograph them. HOPEFULLY tomorrow will be a better day and I can get to that.

I Wish I'd Had This Idea

2009-01-01T06:19:00.001-08:00

Are these not just the CUTEST things ever?! I want one!

You can have them custom made to fit your child. They also print their name and a verse of your choosing on the dolls tummy.

PILLOWS!

2008-12-29T12:59:00.001-08:00

Okay, I know I said that next would be glove puppies, but I gave them all away without taking a photo! Ack. I will make more some day soon.

But for now, PILLOWS.

I need to recover a few pillows, so this is where we are going to play for now. Here are the two patters I am going to try out this week:

Amy Butler Hourglass Pillow

Amy Butler Snow Mum Pillow
(I know, I'm obsessed with Amy Butler.)

Finished results HOPEFULLY by Wednesday or Thursday.

Purple Apron

2008-12-25T09:09:00.000-08:00

My first finished apron (that I can show you).

Now, normally I am not a fan of purple, but this is Amy Butler fabric and let's face it... I love all things Amy Butler. She is my hero when it comes to fabric and design. Love her.

I had to keep this one for myself since it was a first. I have several more that were gifts that I hope to show you soon (have to let the recipient see them first)!

Next up, Glove Puppies. They need a name. You must help me!

It Has Begun...

2008-12-25T09:05:00.001-08:00

Introducing the launch of Sugar Booger Designs.

Coming soon:
Tutorials
"Give Aways"
Aprons
Sock and glove creatures
Purses, bags, and more
Quilts, baby blankets, and anything snuggly
And so much more that I still have yet to dream up!

...sugar booger designs...

{Happy Pa Day}

Five Years

{Projects I am Dying to Try}

{A Very Special Birthday}

{Because I Have No Where Else to Send This - A Letter to My Daddy}

{I Love Being Mommy}

{Gifts}

{Sisters}

{Daddy's Hands}

{I love...}

{Art Case}

Eeeek...

Choices

Sometimes...

List Maker

A Good Day.

Coming Soon!

Time Consuming.

Dreaming...

Curious...

Onsie Dress

Dolly Sweetness

Wooden Matching Game ***So Cute***

~Under Construction and New Address~

My Heart's Desire

One Whole Year.

Maggie's *Temporary* Room Redo

Sophie's Room

All About My Favorite 3 Year Old

Memory Quilt

Christmas Cards

Thanksgiving Dinner for Little Ones

Who Else Is In Love With These?!

Girl's Dress Tutorial

Tales of Sophie

What in the World???

Taking a Break.

Quilt Club - Optional Applique`

New Quilt Post Coming Soon

Assembling Your Quilt Part 2

New Quilt Post Coming Soon

Show It Off

Assembling Your Quilt Part 1

Quilt Club

Quilt Club

Ah, Fabric... How I Love Thee.

Introducing...

Terrible Blogger!

Black Shoulder Bag

Latest Projects.

Handmade Gift Tags

Gift Certificates

Mother's Day Ideas

The Tassel Tutorial

And The Winner Is...

Okay. Here it is.

I Feel Famous!

***HUGE SALE***

To Order

Sorry.

***SALE, SALE, SALE***

New Addition to the Handbag Collection

Tutorial

Pillow Parade

Aprons!

New Look

For Sale

Giveaway at V and Co.

Under Construction...

A Few New Pretties

Rag Rug

A No-Sew Project

New Creation

Valentine #10: Fortune Cookies

Valentine #9: Martha Stewart

Valentine #8: Felt Hearts

Valentine #7: Make Your Own Flower Bouquet

Valentine #6: Decorations

Valentine #5: Heat Packs

Wooden Matching Game So Cute

Maggie's Temporary Room Redo

HUGE SALE

SALE, SALE, SALE