Fiber Sketchbook

Contests

2012-01-30T07:00:00.000-06:00

You may or may not know, but I am fearfully competitive! This is why I try really hard not to get into competitive situations in general. There is a way that I like to express this while learning how to be a good loser as well. I enter lots of contests. They are fun, I still get really competitive even when it's a give away on a blog I'm just determined that I've won every time. Who has ever won a Pioneer Woman giveaway? But I seriously think that I will every time I enter one. It might be because I have won a few contests and drawings from time to time. I don't think that I'm truly lucky. I think the odds are in my favor. If you enter so many, you are bound to win a few.

My favorites are true contests. I've won some writing contests but my latest venture was the modcloth pinterest contest. It was fun they had a ton of really specific rules, and I followed them to a T and entered a wedding board contest. Here is mine...

You can find it here.

It took me hours, but it was so fun the fantasize and make a red and teal themed wedding board. No, I didn't win. That's how I learn to be a good loser. I just thought I would share.

I pinned it, I did it 3

2012-01-27T08:00:00.000-06:00

After seeing this I googled how to do sock bun curls exactly. I watched this youtube video to find out more. Then I was ready to try it myself. I took a shower at night and blow dried most of it. The inside of my hair was still damp.

So I rolled it up at night and it looke like that!

This is what it looked like when I woke up...not too bad.

The Curl! The curls absolutly dropped by the time I got to work. I had put mousse in it the night before and hairsprayed it that morning when I took the bun out. I think it was just too wet at night. It still felt damp in the morning and my hair is so stinken straight that it dried straight.

I think it is worth another try. Next time I'll make sure my hair is completely dry and then mist the outside layers of my hair and wrap it in the bun. This definitely has potential.

Check out my other pins by clicking the link to the right.

I pinned it, I did it.

2012-01-19T07:00:00.000-06:00

I pinned this....

I did this...

It was pretty good. I'm not used to coconut milk based soups, so this had a very interesting taste. It's not as savory as I wanted. I liked it a lot. Brian just could not get full on it. Unless it is wheat bread and red meat he has a hard time getting full in general.

Maybe not a new staple, but I'm definitely not throwing it out.

Don't forget you can see all my pins by clicking the link to the right.

I pinned it, I did it.

2012-01-16T08:00:00.000-06:00

I'm going to try to actual do some of the things that I've pinned. To see more of what I've pinned check out my new button to the right.

I pinned the above.... and this is what I made...

I had this old promotional t-shirt and I wanted to do something with it. I cut the bottom hem opposite of the one pinned, just because I like this shape a little more. Then I took some extra fabric and braided it to tie the back together instead of ribbon. Then I tie-dyed it!!! I had some black and blue dye. I rubber banded it horizontally. I used a lot of die to get the dark navy color.

Personalized Art

2012-01-13T08:00:00.000-06:00

I had an extra canvas laying around and wanted to do something with it.

I got out some white paint, extra fabric and yarn.

I wrote some lyrics that have some meaning in my relationship. These very words sparked a conversation between two college kids that stemmed into something beautiful. This became the only song that was sung at our wedding. I sewed on some crochet doodles and now have this in our bathroom. I love the reminder.

Fancy Bracelets

2012-01-11T08:00:00.000-06:00

Remember these awesome homemade gifts I received?

This Giles and Brothers bracelet is $175!

This one is $125!

Way to go girls! I like mine way better!

Homemade Christmas

2012-01-09T08:00:00.000-06:00

I'm the worst at taking photos of crafts that I make for other people. Unless my husband volunteers a photo shoot it probably won't happen. I'll tell you what I made for people and you can imagine how adorable everything was.

1. For a friend I made her nieces hats. I crocheted a 3mo and 3-year-old coordinating pink and turquoise hats.
2. I knitted hats on a loom for all of the men and boys in my life along with button in crochet beards. (The count in case you were wondering 4 men hats, 3 boy hats)
3. I made custom necklaces for my favorite ladies that had their favorite boy's name in Morse code.
4. I made a neck/upper back rice heating pad.
5. I made hot chocolate on a stick.

Here are the homemade gifts I received though.
(disclaimer, I received some awesome homemade ornaments, that are already in storage.)

I received these awesome edible gifts...a favorite of mine. Homemade vanilla. (already been used a few times. Cowboy cookies in a jar. Peach Rosemary Jam!

I received a lot of amazing bracelets this Christmas! I was pumped! How awesome are all of these from my sister.

My sister-in-law made me these! I like to mix all my bracelets up.

This is a pic of all the bracelets I received for Christmas just for kicks.

My hubbie made me this! It's a beautiful vintage Samsonite suitcase with some goodies inside. Everything I need for a picnic! He bought vintage dishes, silverware, and even a vase.

It turns into a table! How cute is this? I have the best husband ever!

Gifts

2011-12-18T23:09:00.000-06:00

Even at the young age of 25, there are only a few gifts that really stand out to me as favorites and are memorable. One of them was a water baby. I think I was 6ish when I get her.

It got introduced to my families' Saturday night routine. All four kids would take turns taking baths or showers on Saturday night in our one bathroom house so we would be clean for church on Sunday. Dad would brush and blow dry my hair while we watched Nickelodeon. I would be as quiet as I could so I could stay up to watch, "Who's Afraid of the Dark." Because just maybe everybody would forget I was there if I were just quiet enough. It usually worked. When it was finally time to go to bed some one would put warm water in my water baby. I would cuddle that thing so hard and fall asleep.

I loved that water baby. I love the memories that came with it.

Nephews' Christmas

2011-11-22T09:00:00.000-06:00

I am an aunt of some pretty awesome nephews. I was browsing etsy and found some great gifts I think they'd like. Check them out!

Here

Christmas Dresses

2011-11-21T21:22:00.001-06:00

I've really been in the Christmas mood lately. I know it isn't Thanksgiving yet, but this past week I've been buying some Christmas decorations. It's cold outside, and it feels like the beginning of Christmas season.
I have to admit, I still buy myself a Christmas dress every year. It may not be filled with tulle and velvet like some of the 5 year-olds I'll see around Christmas. But I like to wear something new and festive on Christmas Eve when I go to church and my in-laws' formal Christmas Eve dinner.

1. Here 2. Here 3. Here 4. Here 5. Here 6. Here 7. Here 8. Here 9. Here

4 is my favorite, but that color would probably make my skin tone look green. oh well. a girl can dream.

Party

2011-11-17T06:48:00.000-06:00

Today I get to put my party dress on.

Holiday with Ruche

2011-11-16T09:00:00.000-06:00

I've been unpacking hats, scarves, gloves, and the beginning of Holiday clothing. I have to admit that I'm in the mood. Christmas lights have been up on the outside of the store for a couple of weeks now too! I was browsing on shopruche .com and decided to share some of my holiday picks from their website...

New Job...

2011-11-15T09:00:00.001-06:00

I may have a new job at an upscale boutique, but I'm trying hard for it not to change my taste too much.

I did find this great new (to me) website, needsupply.com. I chose some of my favorite items in the above! Here they are....

1. Here 2. Here 3. Here 4. Here 5. Here 6. Here 7. Here 8. Here 9. Here

What do you think?

Anniversary

2011-11-14T09:00:00.001-06:00

We celebrated our one year anniversary a few weeks ago. Check out this video made by our talented videographers.

The Wedding - Hi-Light Video from Brian Moncey on Vimeo.

Wedding Video Booth

2011-09-14T08:57:00.000-05:00

The Wedding - Video Booth Fun from Brian Moncey on Vimeo.

From my husband....

2011 Project Runway EP 06 Streaming Thoughts

2011-09-04T21:13:00.000-05:00

Project Runway EP 6:

Children and Avant Garde. AWESOME

-The designers are partnered with kid artists. The designers are generally supper sweet with these high school kids.

-Some of these children’s art is really beautiful.

-Joshua M’s concept sounds intriguing. And he wants to honor his mother, how sweet.

-I think Bert’s balloon pants will look silly whether he wants them to or not.

-ugh Bert, your outfit is worse than the sketch.

-I love Olvier, but he is struggling. Ever since his panic attack on the track last week I’ve doubted his competitive edge. This is a competition after all.

-Viktor’s student is so forward. I would not be able to tell Tim why a dress is awesome.

_OH NO I thought Olivier was going to get kicked out for gluing his dress on his model.

-I love that Bert always styles his models the same.

RUNWAY

Kimberly” I like this interpretation. I think it’ll be save.

Becky: I like this too. I think it’ll be save.

Olivier: This is weird. I don’t like it. It’s not enough. It looks messy. The painting was really beautiful.

Josh M. I like this look a lot. This looks real runway professional to me.

Bert: ECK! This is horrible. It reminds me of the jumpers my mom put me in during the 80s.

Viktor: ok. I like parts of this dress and others are ugly. The painting was better.

Laura: I’m not sure, looks prom dressy to me.

Bryce. Nope, nope nope. .weird fit. Not working for me.

Josh C. Not avant garde at all. Just a weird leather dress with a blouse underneath. He should be worried.

Anthony: I like this. It is a fairly literal representation of the painting but works for me.

Anya: So how did she do this?!?! I really like it! This may be one of my favorites. I love the cut, the color pallet, the silhouette.

JUDGING

Josh M: Heidi likes this. All of the judges like this. I couldn’t agree more!

Josh C: Michael doesn’t think this Avant Garde and that’s what I was thinking. The judges are being harsh. Josh C is just such a nice guy. But nice guys don’t always win.

Bert: They did not like this except Heidi. Heidi likes that it’s literal, loud, and coo coo. Everyone else thinks it’s too much. That means he will not lose tonight.

Laura: They didn’t see the interpretation until she explained it. I think it is a beautiful interpretation and not too literal.

Olivier: Heidi thinks it is sad. Totally agree. They think it is boring. They like part of it. They like the construction. I think he is safe.

Anthony: Heidi loves this dress. Michael likes it. The guest judge, thinks it is a little home made.

Anthony Ryan is the WINNER! He may have been my 3^rd or 4^th for tonight pick but in general I do like his work.

Josh C is out…again. I’m not surprised. I just like his personality.

2011 PR 05 Streaming Thoughts

2011-08-26T10:05:00.000-05:00

EP 05: Off the Track

-Cecilia is a big baby. I hope this is her week to go.

-Ha, Bert doesn’t think he relates to any of the other designers. At least he can see the obvious.

-Woah…Cecilia just QUIT! Quitters are idiots. Oh well she wasn’t very good anyway.

-Now everyone has to race to become team leaders one time around the track.

-OMG, did Olivier just pass out after tripping during the 200 meter race? Oh the drama! Oh it was just a panic attack! I love Olivier…pull through buddy.

-Because Cecilia quit Victor got to pick someone to come back and he picked Josh C! I liked Josh C he was the nice, family guy.

-I love that they are showing Tim’s more candid moments and not just his scripted moments. I loved that when he was at mood reminding people of their time and budget he then added, “I’m such a nag.”

-Josh C. is back in the flesh and adorable.

-Josh C just saw Heidi come in and said, “Klum of doom!” HAHAHA They are all afraid of her.

-Josh M made Becky cry. He said her clothes were doughty. I like Becky’s clothes they are vintage inspired. Josh M is being a jerk and pushed her too far on purpose. Well at least Josh M kind of apologized.

Runway!

Viktor: I love the motorcycle jacket with the dress. It looks great

Josh C: This outfit is super casual. It looks great with the shoes. I love the shoulder detail.

Olivier: I don’t like the long skirt. Top is ok

(This is a cohesive collection)

Bryce: The dress is cute. It doesn’t go with sneakers though.

Kimberly. I like this look. It’s hard for me to see the detail.

Danielle: She is the only one that had color, which is a shame. It’s just ok

Anthony: poor fit. Camel toe

Laura: Eh. It does work with the shoes

Bert: Doesn’t look good with shoes. Eck

(This entire collection is lacking)

Josh M. I like this look.

Becky: I like the skirt with the pop of color.

Anya: The stripe doesn’t flow well on the dress. It looks bad with tennis shoes.

Overall this was a very disappointing challenge.

JUDGING:

Heidi says there is no clear winner or loser. They have to talk to everyone!

Bert, Anthony and Laura are all fighting in front of the judges! YIKES! It’s not good to fight in front of judges.

Josh M, Becky, and Anya. They liked Anya’s dress? I don’t like it! Nina liked Joshes and so did I. They were not crazy about Becky’s.

Viktor, Josh C and Olivier. They Like Viktor’s look. They like some things from all the looks except Olivier’s “Farm” dress.

Bryce, Danielle and Kimberly. UH oh Danielle made another slouchy color blouse. The judges noticed how weird it is with just one piece with color.

Viktor is the WINNER! He was the standout favorite.

Josh M. is also the winner? Ok, why not!

Danielle is out! I liked her. I think she could have done a good few more episodes.

Clothes are fun

2011-08-22T21:04:00.000-05:00

I've thinking about clothes a lot lately. I really like madewell. Here are a few looks that I like.

I'm so ready for fall, it's not funny.

2011-08-19T17:54:00.000-05:00

Sometimes its nice just to change the back drop. I took the same piece of brown craft paper from last week and cut it up and made these over sized bows. They create a patterned background. The bows still go with the personality if this girly outfit too.

2011 PR 04 Streaming Thoughts

2011-08-19T10:35:00.001-05:00

2011 PR 04 Streaming thoughts

Episode 3: All about Nina!

I love Nina, She reminds me of my mom. If my parents dressed up for Halloween I would want my Dad to go as Michael Kors and my mom as Nina Garcia!

Yikes, Nina is specific.

Nina’s style is so sophisticated and polished, I think Anya will struggle.

I haven’t liked Julie from the beginning. This may be her week to go.

Pressure is on Cecelia! It might be fun to see her under pressure! She is a whiner.

Uh oh Anthony and Becky have the same fabric! Sounds like Anthony had it first. Oh well.

I like Danielle, I hope she does ok, because her garment looks a little Wicked.

This might be the week that Anya’s true skills show through. Yikes!

I love that Tim said, “Yikes!” I say that!

I don’t know how I feel about people helping other people. I kind of agree with Viktor. This is an individual designer competition.

RUNWAY:

Anthony: I don’t like the skirt at all. I don’t like this look. Boring.

Anya: It looks like it needs to be pressed or something. Is it just me or is that center seem a bad fit?!? The idea is lovely. The fabric did turn out well.

Becky: She won the fabric competition between her and Anthony. I like this look. I hope she doesn’t get knocked down a lot of points just because the fabric was used by two different people. I like Becky.

Bert: So simple. Nothing exciting, boring.

Bryce: Yep that hem is bad. The dress is nice other than that. But I know from experience a bad hem is enough to get auffed.

Cecilia: I think the idea is ok. It looks sloppily made.

Danielle: Eck. This didn’t work out. I like Danielle but this was a miss. I hope she is safe because I like her.

Joshua M: I don’t know how I feel about the apron front. It is a fine look I don’t see Nina liking it.

Julie: Yuck Yuck Yuck. Horrible fit. Needs pressing. She just has bad taste. That’s the bottom line

Kimberly: I like this. I think Nina could wear this and it works!

Laura: This is lovely. It is a little holiday green, but I like this a lot.

Olivier: Oh Oli, you are so cute. I love this look! It looks Nina-esque but still definitely Olivier!

Viktor: I like this silhouette. I think it works even though it is a boring black.

Judging:

Viktor: They were nice to him and liked it. I liked the skirt and top option. You can’t even tell it is separates!

Julie: They are being kind do this really ugly garment. Thanks Michael, it is a sad housecoat!

Cecilia: It’s just poorly made. I agree with what they are saying. I think Cecilia’s expression just looks like that, I don’t think she is unhappy.

Kimberly: They love it, and so do I! I can’t believe Laura thought it was in the bottom. I like the Maria Clair Editor.

Anya: They love it. It does work for day to night

Danielle: Pedestrian has never been such a horrible word. Wow, She said Danielle would be depressed after this episode! Eek.

WINNER!! Kimberly: Well deserved!

Julie is out. It was time. These next few weeks will be to weed out the mediocre designers.

I Like

2011-08-17T21:00:00.002-05:00

I love these.

For a project in high school I had to make some moccasins. I wish I would have kept them so I could do some kind of variation on this.

Tuesday is Mannie Day

2011-08-16T20:53:00.001-05:00

"Study Date"

I think all the local schools have started. I thought this would be a really cute study date outfit.

Shirt: Gap, Dress: F21, Pearls:F21 and vintage, Vest:Thrifted, Belt:Gifted by my Grandma, Shoes:Thrifted, Glasses:Thrifted, Purse:C/OThe tilted tulip

Wishing for Fall

2011-08-15T22:07:00.000-05:00

The midwest heat has finally broken. Today's high in the upper 80s felt down right like fall compared to what we've been living with for the past month. I've found some really sophistocated fall decor I thought I thought I'd share with you...

here

mmmm.... seeems kinda lovely. I can't wait for that crisp breeze!

Love and cookies

2011-08-13T19:29:00.001-05:00

Reliving my honeymoon through pictures today...

Greece

and

London

All smiles!

2011 PR 03 Streaming Thoughts

2011-08-11T23:43:00.001-05:00

Episode 3: STILTS!

I like the idea of this challenge. I’m a little worried that the designers will come up with great tops and lame pants. We will see…

Ugh, I hate group episodes…it’s just an hour and a half of bickering and crying.

The models are fun girls. They are more realistically shaped women too.

First day at Mood!

Julie is probably the most obnoxious contestant…I think this is her time to go based on personality alone (and probably style as well.)

Oh Bertie and Vik, you old married couple you.

A cage does not sound safe for a stilt walker.

Phew, did Bertie and Vik just silence Tim with their pettiness? Just kidding just that “Lifetime” editing.

I like the big of the tutu on Fallene and Bryce.

“Off Grain” phrase of the night. Even my husband can tell when something is off grain. (I did teach him how, but still)

Cecilia’s a Bword.

Bryce is so pessimistic.

Fallene, STOP BEING THE CRIER! Get some self respect!

4:30am, that’s no joke.

Olivier and Anya are scaring me, they need to get more done!

Bryce is a control obsessed baby…and Fallene needs to grow a pair.

Not very many fans in the crowd…yikes.

RUNWAY:

Joshua and Julie : It looks too circusy and typical. It’s not out of the box at all. I’m not a fan.

Bert and Victor: The model is good. It looks okay. I’m not super impressed yet.

Bryce and Fallene: It looks horrible together. The top looks like she got it from a dance supply store. The pants under the tutu are so unimaginative.

Beckie and Kimberly: I like this look. It is very much Beckie’s style. The pants do look pretty great.

Anya and Olivier. It is cool. This seems more high fashion than the others. Is it weird that I like this.

Cecilia and Danielle. It looks so wearable. The hair is weird I agree with the designers.

Anthony and Laura: This does look the best so far. Very dramatic. I LOVE LOVE the top of this. What a great team! Looks good with stilts too! This should be the winner.

Judging:

Anthony and Laura: They were sweet and a great team, probably why they weren’t featured in this episode much.

Danielle and Cecilia: “That Hair is CR-AZY” I love you Michael. The chiffon does look great. It looks flawless.

Kimberly and Beckie: It does look a little circusy, but I like the dark circus look they had going. It looks like Beckie’s original designs.

Viktor and Bert: I agree it looks like a bad costume.

Fallene and Bryce: Black swan… The model is laughing because she knows it looks bad! Yikes. They like the headpiece which is Fallene. But yet Fallene is responsible for the bad look? I want Bryce to go home base on the designs but I know it won’t happen.

Joshua and Julie: Bad design, bad taste. But I’m glad they liked the execution.

LAURA IS THE WINNER! She completely deserves it. Good girl.

Fallene is out. I think she is a spunky girl, but she was a bad designer. She didn't have what it takes to last in a competition. She needed a little more gull.

Windows!

2011-08-11T22:18:00.000-05:00

Thursday is Window day. Therefore we must update our window displays! Because we are going with the back to school mommy mannequin, I decided to do something Anthropologie circa 2000. It represents learning, school, fall everything we all imply for the season. I found a book in my stash and cut out all of these leaves with an exacto knife. I'm not Hitler, I recycled this book! I found it on its way to the dumpster at a school that was no longer going to teach on this novel. I saved it, knowing one day I'd make something out of it. So I cut all 200+ pages worth of simple leaves. I then stapled them together to make this garland I hung from the ceiling. I draped the back ground with thick natural colored craft paper. I even stuck a few leaves to the mannie.

My philosophy on window display is as follows:

1. Use correct scale. So many boutiques simply put some product in a window and a few props. You need to use the space you have in a window. Otherwise you are missing out on real estate. You wouldn't leave a corner of your store empty, so don't do it to a window.

2. Make a statement. If you are going to use a fun prop use a lot of them. Windows are fun and need to be attention grabbing. Make people wonder how you did it.

3. Keep product simple. Use the window display to highlight some of your product. Don't clutter the window with a lot of mannequins making it too busy. Don't confuse the customer by putting too much out there. People like clean and orderly merchandise. PS. Usually high-end stores have less in there windows and budget stores have a lot of merchandise. Who do you want to resemble?

4. Change often. Give your customer a reason to come in. Show them something new and current. Make them think you have received new shipment (whether you have or not). Changing your merchandising makes people think you have entirely new clothing.

5. Be Creative with your Budget. If you don't think you have the budget to come up with fun and creative window ideas you are cutting yourself short. Using simple or cheap items for props isn't bad as long as you follow tips 1 through 4. Save your money to make a few extraordinary windows throughout the year.

Something Blue Bridal Shower

2011-08-10T21:10:00.000-05:00

I had the most amazing Bridal Shower last summer. I thought I would share some of it here. For all of the pictures check out my sister Laura's Flickr.

I got to keep those blue shoes! How lucky am I?

For the activity we had these 'design a wedding dress' kits. All of the guests got one and made wedding dresses for the paper dolls!

We had such creative guests and some great looking paper dolls!

All the guests were invited to wear blue to the party! It was so festive to have everyone participate.

The girls also decorated with pictures from our engagement.

Here is a picture of me with my three bridesmaids Laura, Emily and Ashley who threw me this awesome shower! They are amazing. All the food was homemade, the kits were DIY, the invitations were made by them. They are such pros! I've never been to a more beautiful party. Thanks again! I love you girls.

Tuesday is Mannie Day

2011-08-09T21:47:00.000-05:00

Tuesday is the day you change the clothes on your mannequin, in case you didn't know. You need to keep that girl looking fresh. Don't let her stand in shame.

"It's your first day of school too"

School starts next week! Your kids may be ready, but what about you?

*When dressing mannequins you can do anything even if it is unrealistic. You want to get the customer's attention. I chose to use a scarf as a bow tie to give this preppy look a little excitement. UPT is important, so you need to make sure to accessorize and show a complete outfit. This is why I added a belt, shoes, and a bag. But don't go overboard and overwhelm the customer unless it fits the style of the outfit.

Outfit details: Shoes:Payless, Jeans:Express, Belt:thrifted, Shirt:Gap, Jacket:Gift, Scarf:H&M, Purse:Forever21

Until next Tuesday...or whenever...

Display your Stuff

2011-08-08T22:35:00.000-05:00

I love finding cute and creative ways to display my cute and creative stuff. Look at what I recently pinned.

I gave in

2011-08-05T07:00:00.011-05:00

I was trying to save the little extra spending money I allow myself for a present for my hubby's birthday next month. But I spent my last $10 on this instead.

Can I give you my tender, loving care for your birthday? Find lilacism here.

Sometimes I fail at life.

2011 PR 02 Streaming Thoughts

2011-08-04T21:32:00.000-05:00

Challenge 02: Pet Project: Unconventional Project Pet Materials…

-I bet their clothes will stink. I don’t even walk down the pet aisle at the grocery store because it makes me want to gag.

-This seems like it would be a really hard challenge!

-Anthony good choice to be different.

-Bert bad choice to only get fabrics… this is innovation.

-Ooh pet land discount what do you have left? That was a lot of bags leaving the store.

-If you abuse immunity they will get mad!

-How many times do they say wee wee pads?

-Joshua M is giving a lot of advice…should the other contestants be listening?

-Ugh, why is this show 1.5 hours? It’s a little much.

-Some are turning out kinda great..

RUNWAY!!!!

Anthony: Looks great, but so simple. Will they want more? Love the neckline. I like her clean face styling as well.

Anya: Looks great, looks like Anya’s style. Great

Becky: I like the shape of this. I think it works for this challenge.

Bert: Dumb. Gross, stupid. Boring Ugly

Bryce: Stupid. Looks like I made that for my barbie out of gum and napkins

Cecilia: It’s falling off! Ehh.

Danielle: I like this. I would buy that top.

Fallene: safe looking. But skirt comes across well.

Joshua C: Eh. I don’t like it. Others are way better.

Joshua M: I like the top of this. I think it works. I’m not sure if it is a winner.

Julie: Dumb, not innovative. Bad silhouette. Maybe her last look.

Kimberly: Good girl. Safe.

Laura: I like this. I don’t care if there is no movement. I like it.:

Olivier: I kinda love this. So sophisticated. I think he’ll do well.

Viktor: I like it. It’s a good transformation even if it is a simple shape. I think the materials transferred well.

Judging:

Sorry Bryce, they are right about your blue wee wee mistake. Come on Bryce, at least know your girl.

Heidi likes the neckline of Anthony’s dress too.

Olivier, hombre is so chic and in right now. Way to be current. They didn’t like the brows but I liked it.

Joshua C: Conventional..Yep agree. Oh weird shoe to pair it with.

Joshua M: I agree with Nina. What is up with that tag? Haha, makeup is dumb. The top is great, I agree!

Fallene: Simple silhouette. Nina hates the color, but I disagree. I like the retro colors. Fallene you should stand up for your work. Don’t apologize, put on your big girl panties!

Olivier WON! It was very deserved. I love his taste. I'm excited to see what else he will do in upcoming episodes!

Joshua C is out! He's a nice guy. That's the only reason it is sad to see him go. I'm not sad that I won't see any more Josh C. designs on the show though. Got to trim the fat...

Until next week...

2011 PR 01 Streaming Thoughts

2011-07-28T22:05:00.000-05:00

First 15 min. observation.

Amanda Perna: Very Young look. Very questionable taste. But I want to see how she would do in a challenge

Anthony Ryan Auld: testy guy…confused about the look. Potential crier.

Anya Ayoung Chee: Been sewing for a few months? Don’t know if she’ll make it very far. Miss Trinidad. I like her influence and taste.

Becky Ross: I love her style.

Bert Keeter: Interested. Great Story. (Some clothes were great, some were gross) Either will do very well, or horribly.

Bryce Black: I Like the feathers

Cecilia Motwani: Don’t like her style or personality.

Danielle Everine; (I like her, but I don’t know if she’ll make it to top 10) She’s corky.

David Chum: Polished, I’d like to see more.

Failene Wells: I like what she showed. I see her cracking in the future.

Gunnar Deatherage: a name like that…really?

Joshua Christensen: nice guy. Straight Mormon.

Joshua McKinley: Typical personality… another one

Julie Tierney: She’s stupid, but I like her clothes!

Kimberly Goldson: Typical, not impressive to me.

Laura Kathleen: Obnoxious, I think she’d be fun on the show.

Olivier Green: endearing!

Rafael Cox: Great structure…interested.

Serena Da Conceicao: eh

Viktor Luna: weird guy

I agree with the people they outed but I kinda liked David Chum, but I’ll forget who he was by the end of the show.

Challenge: Come as you are:

You can use pjs and one top sheet. Make a look out of what you have.

It’s a good challenge. This will show the creativity of the contestants.

Half way through the episode…and I’m excited about this season. People are showing some promise!

Pumped about runway time

Anthony: Looks good in the beginning RUNWAY I like the top the skirt is stupid. JUDGING: I’m surprised that they liked it that much. Top looks like something I could get at wet seal.

Anya: yeah, good luck. No one is surprised you are struggling. Uh OH she’s a little surprising. I like her and I don’t want to! Oh you are far behind? Not surprised little miss anya. RUNWAY It works. I can’t tell how the construction is. Too bad everyone will be looking harder at her construction than anyone elses.

Becky RUNWAY. Very cute. Space age inspired. I’m in.

Bert.. I’m loving it. RUNWAY. I like it a lot. Maybe my favorite. JUDGING: totally agree. He should be the winner. I liked the styling. Michael is being to harsh about that.

Bryce RUNWAY: I LOVE it! Impressed.

Cecilia RUNWAY Skirt is bad fit. I think you’ll pass through.

Danielle RUNWAY. I like it!

Fallene Eww, no puking clown RUNWAY stupid. Should have used puking clown on accessory.

Joshua C. I like the plan, hope it works out.RUNWAY I liked it a lot! One of my favorites a top pick. JUDGING: Awe..I like it. He went for a different look. I think they should give him a little more credit.

Joshua M. Runway Eh..

Julie not excited about what she is bringing to the table. Gross. RUNWAY It all looks really 2000.

Kimberly: RUNWAY top was weird. Didn’t like it.

Laura: wearing nice pjs may get you some where in life! RUNWAY I like it. Looks like a sheet and negligée.

Olivier RUNWAY ok

Rafael Oh don’t cry…no one cares what your hair looks like. RUNWAY the top looks like a sheet, pants ok weird look. JUDGING: Kick him off.

Viktor RUNWAY I’m a sucker for shirt dresses. I hope he makes it to next week. But he didn’t show anything original or daring.

In conclusion I had a major miss with Joshua C. Oh Well! Let’s see what he does next week. I agree that Bert deserved to win the challenge hands down. Rafeal is out! I agree completely with the decision.

desperate for a makeover

2011-07-12T17:07:00.000-05:00

If only I could get the craft room/library to somehow look like this... but in real life.

Inspired

2011-07-11T22:17:00.001-05:00

I was reading one of my favorite blogs and came across Elie Saab's Fall 2011 Couture line. I found it to be absolutely inspiring!
It got me thinking how much I love the romance of these dresses. I found some other vintage romantic dresses on etsy...

1. Here
2. Here
3. Here
4. Here
5. Here
6. Here

Home Sweet Home

2011-07-09T17:01:00.000-05:00

Hope you enjoy your weekend!

Redeemed

2011-07-07T19:14:00.000-05:00

When at first you don't succeed; try, try again.

I took off all of the crocheted flowers from the pillow I made a little while ago and decided to make it look better some how. I tied them together by the petals in neat little rows.

Then with the few that I had left over I sewed onto the original pillow that is a huge granny square.

On the other side of booth pillows I have the chevron pattern. I don't know about you, but I love chevron!

Here is where I posted the chevron pattern that I used!

HP Love

2011-07-06T20:56:00.000-05:00

I bought my tickets to see HP next week at midnight. I'm going with my mom and dad. I think I may have seen every Harry Potter movie on opening day with both my parents. I'm 24 and it's awesome.

Check out this other awesome HP stuff...

found here

some sweet music found here

Lightning bolt jewelry (I may have something like this) here

I'm just allowing myself to get really excited about the movie. It's the last time there will be a new Harry Potter "thing" that everyone you know is going to see or read.

Chores

2011-07-05T21:23:00.000-05:00

From a very young age I somehow figured out really good study habits. I lived by the reward system. Finish 5 problems reward yourself with a pretzel. Something like that. I use these same skills to do my chores. I pick up the living room, I read a chapter of Pretty Little Liars or crochet a row. How do you handle cleaning?

Check out my pinterest...

Too Get Fat!

2011-06-29T21:57:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I just get the bug to bake something delicious. For a long time I've wanted to make cinnamon rolls. I've had the Pioneer Woman recipe saved for a long time. Tonight I wanted something quick. So I googled cinnamon rolls without yeast and here is what I found.

I did substitute half of the flour for whole wheat flour. It made it taste more like a scone. It's pretty good either way. I would also bake it at a much lower temp and for a shorter amount of time. (it may just be my super hot and fast oven though)

Here is a Kirkland favorite....

Instead of the milk/sugar glaze I made an orange glaze! Get a cereal bowl full of powdered sugar and slowly add a little bit of orange juice and stir. Now fall in love with orange glazed cinnamon rolls. You'll never be able to eat a plain cinnamon roll again.

Latest Craft Project

2011-06-28T21:46:00.000-05:00

This one is for me!

This past winter I made some covers for two pillows we have in the living room. I've been thinking that I want to crochet some new pillow covers for the spring. My mom ripped a picture out of a magazine that she reads that looks something like this...

Found here.

So a long time ago I started making flowers. You may remember it.

So here is what came from it...

I made a basic granny square the size of the pillow. I attached all of the flowers to it. It looked almost like the inspiration. Then I had to stretch it around the pillow and the flowers don't look as dense as I'd like. But here is what the back looks like...

Chevron! I love this side! For the next pillow I'll definitely make a chevron side.

I think I may take off all of the flowers and make the chevron side the front. I'll just have to find another use for all of those flowers!

I'll post the next pillow I make too.

Here is the pattern I used for the chevron.

Make a Chain for however long you would like. Keep it a multiple of 5.

Turn, 1 dc in first stitch. *1 dc in next stitch 3xs. decrease twice. 1 dc in next stitch 3xs. 2 dc in next stitch 2xs* Repeat as many times as you need to. Turn.

Strawberry O Cream Pie

2011-06-23T18:34:00.000-05:00

Special Request from the Hubbie...

Found here only substituted thawed frozen strawberries for the cherry pie filling.

Date Night

2011-06-22T05:00:00.005-05:00

Brian and I had a great weekend. He bought me flowers and chocolate, we ate at The Good Pie, and then went to see Ira Glass. Brian and I have been together for 5 great years.

This is what we looked like that first summer we started dating!

Midwest Modern

2011-06-21T05:00:00.001-05:00

I work in O'Fallon Missouri. It is less than 20 minutes away from my house but I do cross the Missouri river to get there. If you thought train tracks divide cultures in a community, imagine what a difference a river makes! I honestly thought we would be the same when I started working there. I thought that most people that lived in O'Fallon got their start in North County at one time and eventually moved out west just like I did!

I think the women are a little Southern. They are open about liking country music and dress their kids in the most adorable way! They all wear big bows and home made looking Amy Butler dresses and carry Vera Bradley bags. These little kids are so traditional and cute! All of the little girls that I'm around wear ruffles, tutus, skirts and clothes that are little versions of their mothers. The O'Fallon kids look like little kids and it is so cute. I can't figure out where this trend is coming from. One of the websites I looked at called it Midwest Modern. It seems more southern to me.

one two three four five

Book Club

2011-06-20T20:43:00.001-05:00

I recently read Plain and Simple: A woman's Journey to the Amish by Sue Bender.

It's not something I would recommend for anyone to read. It did have some interesting insights. There was nothing earth shattering about the description of an artist living with the Amish for a short period of time. The artist mostly described them as unbelievable kind and selfless people. She then dealt with her own struggle on how to incorporate these simple values into her own life in Berkley. I found the ending to be a little surprising. She gave up her studio and art space and found her happiness in a simpler life. She found joy in keeping a clean home for her family. Instead of making crazy art quilts she turned to pottery and started making useful objects instead.

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-19T07:00:00.002-05:00

Love You, Daddio!

Headbands for Girls

2011-06-18T15:51:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I added a bunch of headbands for kids! Aren't they cute. Don't forget I also sell kits so you and your favorite little one can make them together!

Find this here!

kayleighkirkland

2011-06-17T13:38:00.000-05:00

I beefed up my etsy shop. Check it out here!

Late Night TV

2011-06-16T22:29:00.000-05:00

Here are my choices for giving in and watching TV before bed....

Deadliest Catch

(makes me want to attempt reading Moby Dick one more time)

I can only watch this when I'm not full, or hungry. It's a small window.

Brian can't understand why I don't like to watch all my favorite girly shows and movies when I'm watching TV late by myself. My answer, "I don't know."

Find the Booty

2011-06-15T07:33:00.001-05:00

Look I got featured on someone's treasury!

See it HERE

Chiffon Flowers DIY

2011-06-14T07:00:00.000-05:00

I've been wanting to make chiffon flowers for a long time. I happen to have a little stash of navy chiffon in my collection so here is what I did....

I loosely cut a bunch of circles out of the chiffon. These are about 2.5" in diameter. The trick is to lightly melt all of the edges with a lighter so that they don't fray. It also gave the circles fun realistic petal shapes. I then folded each petal in fourths and sewed about 5 of the corners together.

This is what it looks like after you sew them together. Then you can personalize them any way you want. I sewed on a big jewel to the center and put it on a bottle of wine for a friend. You could add pearls to the center, you could do anything.

This is a blurry picture of it pinned to my sweater!

Book Club

2011-06-13T07:00:00.001-05:00

I've been reading these Really dorky high school girl books.

Pretty Little Liars.

There is an ABCfamily TV show based off of them.

It's my guilty pleasure I know that I've mentioned before. But now I've read book 1, 2, 3 and 4...

it's almost embarrassing.

Dresses for the Rain

2011-06-12T09:42:00.000-05:00

It's early summer and I have a few bridal showers on my horizon. I personally want to spend my money on the dress that I wear to the wedding, so I like affordable cute options for the shower. I was browsing this website that is known for their affordability and found the above dresses.

1. here 2. here 3. here 4. here 5. here 6. here 7. here 8. here

Number 6 is my favorite.

Taste Test

2011-06-11T18:02:00.002-05:00

You can now take a taste test on etsy. Here is what they chose for me...

Vacation Blogs

2011-06-10T07:00:00.001-05:00

I went out of town 2 weeks ago and haven't caught up on my blogs yet... I'm still have over 1000 posts to read but here is what I'm glad I didn't click "mark all as read."

I'm in love with this video by Katie Day. My hubby's profession has something to do with videos so I told him he needs to do this for the future of our family.

This cute necklace has a surprising use.

Some cute girl has a fun graduation postcard!

This Fanciful Photoshoot! I often brag of my amazing diorama skills...

photoshop

2011-06-09T18:00:00.000-05:00

I need to buy a new photoshop. The program that I was trying to use is for windows only.
I'm trying to figure out what I do need.

Can I get away with using photoshop elements? I'm finding that most things I do I can easily to in elements.
But sometimes I do print work for Salons...I may need to stick with photoshop, I just need to find it for my pretty macbook.

ugh what to do.

I work for these salons..
Tranquility Salon and Day Spa
Salon Studio
and Spa WingHaven

in case you were curious...

Book Club

2011-05-09T05:00:00.002-05:00

I picked up Bossy Pants the other day by Tina Fey.

I want to like it really badly. I think that's why I keep picking it up after putting it down. If I didn't like Tina Fey so much I would not have gotten past page 30.

I imagine it is written in a way that is synonymous with the way Tina Fey speaks. It's one thing to talk all over the place, it's whole other thing to read a comedian's stream of consciousness all about themselves. She's no Virginia Woolf. (Believe it or not, I actually liked the Lighthouse).

(so just imagine a whole book written in the style of my blog! Pretty obnoxious.)

new project

2011-05-07T22:50:00.029-05:00

I've been crocheting a little here are there.

I'm really trying to figure out a way to use my surplus of yarn and fabric. So I decided to crochet a bunch of flowers out of the left over white and off white yarns that I have.

I'll let you see the final project whenever I get around to finishing it.

Here is the pattern that I'm using if you are interested.

Ch 2

sc 12 in first ch

slip stitch to join

*ch3, skip one stitch, sc next st* repeat 5 times

in loop made by chain stitches *1sc, 1hdc, 1dc, 1hdc, 1sc* repeat in next 5 loops.

*sc around post ch4* repeat 5 times

in loop made by chain stitches *1sc, 1hdc, 3dc, 1hdc, 1sc* repeat 5 times.

I've been wearing feathers for years...

2011-05-03T21:17:00.014-05:00

I've always enjoyed the frilliness of feathers. Whether I sew them on to a dress, put them on my earrings, with my necklaces or even stuck them in my hair I've always liked incorporating feathers into my look.

Now there are feather hair extensions. They have been made widely popular by Steven Tyler. (not the fashion icon you would think of for teen girls across the nation)

Now they are popping up everywhere! You can get them at almost any salon ranging from $10-$50 per feather.

My favorite Disney kids are wearing them. Would you try this new trend?

Book Club

2011-05-02T18:37:00.016-05:00

I've been reading some more lately.

Brian has given me an interest on graphic novels lately. I've been wanting to find a "Kayleigh appropriate" graphic novel. Or in other words, something that I would be interested in.

It just so happened that while browsing Barnes and Noble I saw a book that I kind of recognized. The Invention of Hugo Cabret. It was a book that I found while browsing the audio books in the library a few years ago. The book looked a lot bigger than what I remembered listening to. So I picked it up and it is a pretty cool graphic novel. All of the images are pencil drawings.

Let me tell you, this is a different experience than listening to it. I'm enjoying it so much!

I want to see what Brian Selznick's other books look like.

Book Club

2011-04-26T22:02:00.000-05:00

I just finished a book my mom recommended after reading it on the plane.
The Walk by Richard Paul Evans

It's okay. If someone hands it to you and says you should read this if you have time, then you can read it. I wouldn't recommend requesting it from the library.
It did make me tear up at bread co, though.

He Is Risen Indeed

2011-04-25T20:15:00.000-05:00

The Easter Bunny brought me flowers and I baked a peanut butter honey cake inspired by this chica.

Brian got the new HP movie and I got a tank top. We all know I really won this Easter.

Shopping

2011-04-22T19:18:00.000-05:00

1 here

2 here

3 here

4 here

5 here

6 here

7 here

8 here

9 here

Books

2011-04-21T20:26:00.000-05:00

Brian and I have been to Barnes and Noble twice this week. We were just looking around and browsing. The only thing we bought was a little book to keep all of Brian's State Quarters.

I was very disappointed to know that there were 3 and only 3 books that I wanted to look at and all 3 were not in the store!

from this great girl's blog.

I was thinking of buying this for my nephew's 6th birthday. (it's okay, I don't think he reads this blog)

and

now who wouldn't want to browse through that?

These books aren't crazy. I'm not that against the stream. Why didn't they have my books?

Wedding Flowers

2011-04-19T21:11:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite things to do is look at flowers when I'm at Trader Joe's. They are always reasonably priced and usually there is a great selection. It reminds me of the flowers I had at my wedding.

My sister-in-law Erika put together all of the flowers, had the vision, and ordered the flowers for me. She was a Godsend! She did an amazing job and even was a bridesmaid. She was one the MVPs of the day for sure!

Here is what she ordered at a local wholesale florist...

3 Buplereum

2 Queen Annes Lace

2 Ranunculus [red]

1 Dahlia [red or burgundy]

2 Cosmos [chocolate]

1 Calcynia [white]

1 Lysmachia [white]

3 Poms [red or burgundy]

2 Daisy [white]

1 Agganis [brown]

Total Price...$143.22!

SCORE!

It was beautiful!

Religion? Fashion?

2011-04-16T17:45:00.000-05:00

There is a new trend of quartz crystal necklaces. I've actually seen a lot of these necklace that involve bullets too. I think they are cute. But as a church staff member's wife I asked Brian if wearing New Age crystals was okay? I don't want people to think I'm something I'm not. Is this just conservative behavior for no reason? Even though I really like this trend. I don't think I can do it. Does this sound like a Pentecostal that wants to wear braids? Does it matter either way? Do people judge others by what they are wearing? Just something to think about.

But here are some cute necklaces...

Here

Kits

2011-04-15T08:47:00.003-05:00

I made a headband kit and a bunting kit for the craft show I did last summer and have been selling them ever since. This is the first time I've put them online!

Find Your Happy Place

2011-04-14T17:49:00.000-05:00

Did you know that etsy is a mind reader? There is a place where they suggest shops that you might like. Those smarty etsy people were right! I do like these shops. Here is one specifically...
Orange Studio by Helen Dardik

I think it's pretty dang cute...

Consignment

2011-04-13T19:59:00.000-05:00

I had a lot of my goods in a consignment / bead shop since this past winter; Bizzy Beads.
Sadly the owner has decided to stop selling the consignment goods and focus on the beads to better her business. This is kind of exciting news for me. Now I have all of my product back. I can beef up my etsy shop. I'm really excited to get started.
Today I decided to have a photo shoot.
It was semi successful. It was so bright out I couldn't tell if I was getting any good shots. Some were great! Some were ok. Here is a shot of some of my kids headbands!

Check back at my etsy shop often to see what I'm up to!

There is a lot more coming....

Handmade Gifts

2011-04-11T18:47:00.000-05:00

People generally make the mistake of thinking that home-made gifts are economical.

They're not.

I love to crochet! I do it because I think it is fun. It gives me a sense of accomplishment. I love to crochet gifts for people. I think about that person while I crochet for hours. It gives me such joy to give those time consuming gifts to people I love.

All that to say, buying the yarn for my crocheted gifts usually average $20-$30. A simple gift like a blanket takes me 6 hours. Complicated gifts like animals take me forever! I love it. Pictures like this make me want to cry they are so precious.

found here

Sewing on the other hand might be economical. I can always find fabric discounted or being practically given away and making something like a tiny dress or romper, usually only take a couple of hours! I might start sewing more... I don't know?

Herb Marriage

2011-04-09T05:00:00.001-05:00

Brian made me an herb garden to hang outside our patio. I'm hoping that hanging it will help little critters not eat them. Now I need to pick out herbs to plant!

Basil

Mint

Cilantro

Lemon Grass

Parsley

Vintage Children

2011-04-08T05:00:00.002-05:00

Going off my last post...
Have you guys been noticing the trend in vintage children's clothing?
I really like this blogger Rachel from Smile and Wave. She has a cute toddler that she often dresses in vintage dresses...

found here

I think these little girls look really cute! Here are somethings I've found on etsy. I need to get my mom to open up a shop to make some money off of all of the adorable clothes she made for me and my 2 sisters!

1 here 2 here 3 here 4 here 5 here 6 here 7 here 8 here 9 here

Tiny Baby Girl

2011-04-07T06:00:00.005-05:00

So I'm getting a niece in August. I'm really pumped! After three nephews I finally get my first niece!

(It may have been leaked a little early on my Facebook page. But I had no part in that! FYI)

Here are all the things I've made for people with a baby girl... and I wasn't even related to her!

I will admit I was at Hancock's buying fabric for another occasion and I did find some $2.00/yd bargain fabric that I thought would look especially cute on my soon to be niece.

We'll see what happens...

Shopping at Home

2011-04-06T05:00:00.004-05:00

Online boutiques have just gotten awesome. Maybe I'm just slow to realize it but there are some great online boutiques out there! Here are a few that I like to frequent.

Modcloth
Duh, it's awesome. It's also where i got my bridesmaids dresses last year!

Salvage Life
I've bought a really cute vintage, mustard floral dress from here. Love it. Buy bought I really mean won!

Ruche

I just discovered this one on this girly's blog.

It may be my new ambition to work for an online boutique. You have to be part blogger, part fashionista. I feel that could really work for me. Now if only I can find one based in St. Louis. Or even better, CHESTERFIELD!

Festive

2011-04-05T20:05:00.000-05:00

Do you decorate for all the holidays? Easter is in just a few weeks. I've put some plastic eggs in my fancy apothecary jars. The colors are fairly bright against everything else in my apartment, but I kinda like it.

in love with this video

2011-02-27T08:53:00.000-06:00

Red Velvet Lookbook // Spring 2011 from elsie flannigan on Vimeo.

Could I love it anymore?

Valentine's Week

2011-02-20T22:10:00.000-06:00

Brian and I celebrated Valentine's Week. That basically meant I planned an extra special meal and dessert for us everyday.

Brian wrote this one because my dinner failed and we had to order pizza. It was Valentine's day too!

I will admit by day 7 we were so sick of sweet food that we didn't even have the yogurt!

Every morning I woke up to a love note. That's a total of 7 handwritten love notes from my wonderful husband. How luck can one girl get?

it's here

2011-02-15T08:15:00.000-06:00

I'm looking forward to wedding season this year... Check out the new collaboration with anthropologie and BHLDN.

Hostess Envy

2011-02-13T17:31:00.001-06:00

One blog that I like to read is Hostess with the Mostess. They are basically the same set up over and over again. Large apothecary jars filled with candy. I table with with sweets with a themed background. Adorable children running around. All they do is change the colors, but I still love reading it because it's just so darn cute! Here are some of my favorites.

here

Project

2011-02-12T15:35:00.000-06:00

One of the next projects I want to do is make some kind of table runner for our dining room. I bought this fabric a while ago.

I know this fabric is going to look awesome in our home, I just don't know how to go about making it. I don't want anything that is going to look weird or out dated. I don't want it to look like just a piece of fabric on the table either. I'm a little stuck. I need some kind of pattern, but there is nothing out there that I have found to be cute.

ugh...someday I will make a runner out of this.

BM Dresses

2011-02-11T14:33:00.000-06:00

I’ve been asked to be in my sister-in-laws wedding! I’m really excited. They got engaged in Panama around Christmas. It’s going to have a kind of tropical theme. So of course I’ve been thinking about bridesmaid’s dresses!

**I will joyfully wear whatever she wants me to wear. I’m not going to show her any of these dresses or put my two cents in because my opinion doesn’t matter. She is the bride, she gets to pick whatever she wants and I will pay for it. I will look awesome in whatever she picks.**

I think that there are no rules for bridesmaid’s dresses. When you get a bunch of girls in a row wearing the same thing or something similar, or heck just put flowers in their hands; they look like bridesmaids. With a tropical theme in mind this is what I found…

Dress 1 here; Dress 2 here; Dress 3 here; Dress 4 here

Pedro the Daniel

2011-02-10T21:06:00.000-06:00

Meet Daniel the lion!

Remember this post? I actually finished the lion a few days later. I think crocheting something with a pattern is MUCH faster than trying to make it up as I go. It's pretty cute isn't it.

Asher

2011-02-09T21:15:00.000-06:00

I've been thinking of this baby boy a lot today. He turned four today!

I like being an aunt.

Vintage Children's Books

2011-02-08T18:56:00.000-06:00

Brian and I have always had an interest in children's books. It may have stemmed from this store. Brian and I have found this really cheap book sale at an old school house that we like to go to. We even had some engagement shots taken there.

This is where we bought a lot of our old books. Aren't the illustrations fun?

I love the inside flaps of vintage books.

The illustrations are so bright.

My Vintage Fabric Stash

2011-02-06T12:41:00.000-06:00

I just wanted to show you some of my vintage fabric stash. You all know I get my vintage fabrics from leftovers etc. The only thing about it is you never know what you are going to get or how much. The top left is just an upholstery sample (but a large one). The top right has over 3 yards! The bottom left is a yard and the bottom right is half a yard.

secrets of the library

2011-02-05T00:29:00.001-06:00

I have seen The Secret Lives of Dresses by Erin McKean, get a lot of hype on some fashion blogs I read but I never read what it was about or why it's a big deal. I just saw the picture of the cover over and over again. So I had the time and tried to find out some more information about it. It comes out on the 10th and was written by the creator of A Dress A Day; a blog I read occasionally. I tried to look it up on my local library's database and this is what it showed me...

There are a lot of things that have secret lives! Anyhow, I read the little overview that is on amazon and it's not really my style of book but I'll probably read it anyway. I just have to wait a little long before I can request it.

I know this post didn't really have a point but you're a little curious about the secret lives of soil creatures aren't you.

The Year of the Rabbit

2011-02-03T22:53:00.000-06:00

Today is the Chinese New Year; the year of the Rabbit. I made stir fry and egg rolls for dinner to celebrate. I should have worn red. Anyhow it made me reminisce over my trip to Hong Kong a few years ago. It was in January of 2007 (i think). Isn't it weird how we can forget what year we took a trip across the world to CHINA? but we do.

We saw some really beautiful temples, with awesome details.

We ate some really weird food; and some really good food.

I just like the idea that the Chinese have a good humor about themselves.

I think this might be graves. Little areas where you can put some one's ashes in a temple. If you open these little windows up you would see a name and maybe even a picture. I took a lot of pictures of things that I probably shouldn't have because they were sacred. At the time, my 20 year old self did not care so much.

All the lovely people I got to experience Hong Kong with. My brother, sister-in-law, mom and dad.

The amazing city of Hong Kong and Kowloon. I've never felt like so much of a country bumpkin in my life!

Now that I know I can handle a large and crowded city like Hong Kong. Shouldn't someone take me to New York next?

Valentine Garland

2011-02-02T20:39:00.000-06:00

I have been in such a crochet mood this winter. Winter is the best time to crochet! Today I whipped up a fun quick project that I got from the craft blog.

VALENTINE'S HEART GARLAND

It reminds me of all of the cute thing Attic24 makes.

love and cookies

2011-02-01T21:46:00.000-06:00

I kind of had a snow day... I got to work from home.

Working from home is fun when Brian gets to work from home too. Brian made me cinnamon rolls and eggs for breakfast, perfect english breakfast tea in the midmorning, toasted ravs for lunch and then homemade cookies!

I like working from home! I think I'm the luckiest girl in the world.

In their Honor

2011-01-31T20:56:00.000-06:00

In honor of Anthropologie introducing a bridal line in 2 weeks I went through the anthro website and picked out a few favorites. Then I started to notice a theme with my choices. I guess I'm into dark yellow right now. There is more yellow on the website too! I just picked out my favorites!

Go find your own faves on the website.

Music Love

2011-01-30T21:41:00.002-06:00

Brian and I are trying to choose a song to go with our wedding video.

Here are the contenders.

The last song was the only song that was acutally sung in the wedding, by my very talented cousin Jeremy Kirkland. What do you choose?

My '70s Cravings

2011-01-28T15:18:00.000-06:00

I've been finding myself searching for a detailed tooled leather purse. I would love a small cross body bag. It would be perfect for shopping in the summer. mmmm.........summer....

Found 1. Here 2. Here 3. Here 4. Here 5. Here 6. Here 7. Here 8. Here

It's a Party

2011-01-27T10:43:00.000-06:00

A friend is having a mad men themed party. So of course that means late '50s early '60s dress required. If you know me at all, you know that there has never been a full skirt that I said no to. I love the romantic look of the 50s! BUT lately I've been wanting to look more sophisticated. I want sleeker silhouettes, and a more polished look. Therefore, I couldn't help but look up a bunch of dresses on etsy. I found all of the above 60s style dresses! I love #3. Too bad pink is not my color. Isn't the color of #1 amazing?

Found 1. Here 2. Here 3. Here 4. Here 5. Here

An Off Day

2011-01-12T22:52:00.000-06:00

I love days that I don't have to work! (Who doesn't)
My man came home I was crocheting, watching Harry Potter on our new Blu Ray player!, and had a pioneer woman recipe simmering on the stove. That pretty much means my day couldn't have gotten any better!

I made Pioneer Womans Chicken Tortilla Soup for dinner. It was delicious as always. My marlboro man knows to expect yummy food with PW Cooks. It's when I have the cooking light mag out, that he worries sometimes.

I also started a new crochet project!

It's going to be a lion! The pattern is here.