This Vintage Chica: September 2006

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September 2006

A Year of Color: Turquoise Blue

When I saw that this week's color for A Year of Color was turquoise blue, I was so excited. I love turquoise! Ive enjoyed it this summer in my kitchen paired with orange. And Ive been participating in the aqua/red swap over at swap bot organized by Barbe. (how did I get myself into a swap where my partner created such beautiful, amazing art yarns and I had to put together a package for her??? I hope she likes everything.) When I wear my turquoise jewelry, I feel grounded and more connected to my Southern Texas roots.

But like Angela of Colorfool said in a recent post, "Crazy is the new normal". It has been nuts...that is more nuts than usual around here. I had grand plans of having lots of time to do lots of creative little things that have been on my crafty list for months. But life happens. You know? S has been working extremely long hours the past few weeks. This is their "busy" time of year. We are changing servers over at Ms. Darla's site. And it hasnt gone as smoothly as I had planned. And then I think Scout has hit her toddler into everything puppy stage. She is into everything and takes anything that is left on the floor outside to chew...including plastic bags, scraps of felt, yarn, leggos, stuffed animals, boxes from the pantry. EVERYTHING! It really is like having another baby. Which has left me little time to take photos.

But also because turquoise blue has been a tough color for the boys to get into. They dont love it near as much as I do, I think because it is hard to distinguish it from other blues. But when Ian got up from his nap one day and was lounging on Scouts pillow and he exclaimed "Mama, get the camera quick! Im laying on turquoise", what's a mama to do? But take the photo with much praise and smiling and post it ASAP to show him how much I want to smooch him to death when he says things like that. So here he is with his sleepy little eyes on a not so turquoise blue thrifted pillowcase turned dog bed.

Also I got lots of questions about the rag rug Im making. Answers and more links will follow this post, but I hear Mr. Mooch waking up from his nap, so gotta run for now.

September 29, 2006 in color | Permalink | Comments (7) | TrackBack (0)

Aprons and Rags

Thrifted Apron Haul
Originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

Hello all! Im still getting caught up from getting so behind while fighting it out with blogger, but Im getting there. My links are almost done and thank you to all that commented with well wishes and welcomes. It really means a lot to hear from some of you I have really come to enjoy. If you were on my sidebar before and arent there yet, you will be after tonight *I hope*...pending the actions of the 3 monkeys. But I did get out a little yesterday and visited the Goodwill in Racine where Aunt K and I have found lots of goodies before. We were looking for "green knight" costumes for the boys and came up empty handed. Or should I say THEY came up empty handed. Because, look what I ran across! I found six wonderful beyond belief vintage aprons. From left to right:

mushroom smock :: yellow faces with funny hats :: child's blue gingham :: red with roster :: flouncy yellow polka dots :: pink and brown floral with funny ric-rac trim

For more photos of each apron, see here.

And Ive started a rag rug out of some pajama pants that I wore while I was pregnant and then afterward. They are pretty stretched out and S is tired of seeing me swimming in them, so I closed my eyes tightly and cut into them. I took photos along the way if anyone wants to try this and needs tutorial. I said before that my Grammer Shirley used to make these out of old clothes and after I posted she told me a funny story. Do you mind if I share?

Papaw hung a pair of work pants that he used in the field on the clothes line one day to use when he returned home from work. When he got back from work and looked for his pants, they were missing. He asked Grammer if she had seen them thinking that she had possibly put them in the wash. Grammer just grinned and looked down at the rag rug she had finished that day. She said that she had gotten almost done and needed just a tad bit more fabric to finish the rug and spied Papaws raggedy ol pants out on the line. Funny!

I hope everyone is having a great fallish weekend. We are!

September 24, 2006 in making, repurposing, vintage | Permalink | Comments (17) | TrackBack (0)

In the Mail...

New Shoes
Originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

I have recently had a few extra minutes in the evening (read that very few) to browse around a few of the blogs Ive been hearing so much about. One of which was Eireann's Oh Bara. You know when you see a link and you follow it only to realize you love what you see and then don't have time to really browse like you want to? Yep. Well this is definitely one of THOSE blogs. Eireann was writing about moving - a subject that is near and not so dear to my heart. She was also sharing some of her studio stash for only the shipping cost before the big pack up, so I jumped on that chance and received some lovely pink themed fabrics and trims, an orange zipper, some bright yellow thread and more. The more included an unexpected book of poetry called POETRY, A Pocket Anthology, edited by RS Gwynn. I looked through it briefly and saw a few of my favorite poets were included. I used to write poetry when I was younger, much much younger, and I really enjoyed it. And I completely enjoyed the poetry I studied in college, but I haven't read or written any poems in quite awhile. So, this small gift is really no small gift to me. I cant wait for a little more of that precious quiet time to read more and to introduce myself to poetry again.

And then she had posted that she was having a little end of the year summer sale and I'm a sucker for a sale. And look what caught my eye...these embellished ballet flats. Why didn't I know that ballet flats were so comfortable? They are the perfect thing between summer flip-flops and winter boots/shoes. Normally I would not have been drawn to these shoes. I guess Ive always steered away from anything too *cute*, because Ive always looked younger than I am and have always been called *cute*. I hated that when I was younger. Somehow I didn't think to be called cute was a compliment. But I must have overcome that now, because these *cute* shoes are on my feet and have been since they arrived. I love this little bit of newly added frilliness and lace in my mainly boy filled world.

Thanks again Eireann!

P.S. Eireann is also a poet herself and has a book coming out in early 2007 called Music for Landing Planes By...love that title and the beautiful cover.

September 21, 2006 in thinking again | Permalink | Comments (4) | TrackBack (0)

A Year of Color: Pine Green

Pine Green Truck
Originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

One of the things that I love the most about our garden is that the boys enjoy playing in it so much. This morning I went out to pick a little spinach and the last of the acorn squash for dinner. And this little truck was sitting on the edge of the garden loaded with "boulders". Apparently, last night while we were all out enjoying the first cool fall evening, someone was helping remove the rocks that inevitably get thrown into the garden dirt.

And this is an old flower frog. Do people even use these anymore? My mom gave it to me ... geez, lets see ... like 10 years ago or so. I use it occasionally for flowers like tulips or daffodils that can use a little more support when the vase is a little too wide.

These were our submissions for the A Year of Color group this week....pine green.

September 19, 2006 in growing, mothering, thinking again | Permalink | Comments (12) | TrackBack (0)

Archives #3

Tuesday, September 12, 2006

Embroidery In The Car

This past weekend we took the boys to the state park beach in Zion, IL and of course I needed a project for the car ride. I had decided on a Mexican kitchen theme for an upcoming swap on the HHWC, and after seeing the wonderful pattern that Floresita offered...embroidered dishtowels it was. So, while debating the current political affairs of the US with husband, dancing to Dan Zanes' Rocketship Beach and passing chocolate milk to the back seat, I finished them. That, my friends, is multi-tasking the mama way! More photos of the beach next.

Sunday, September 10, 2006

Happy Birthday Papaw!

It is amazing who you end up connecting with through the computer/internet/blogging. But one person I am glad to have connected with in a more meaningful way is my Papaw...Fred Williams. Today is his birthday, so I thought this would be a perfect way to send him our birthday wishes. He checks my blog for updates everyday (sometimes more often than that). And to be quite honest, I think he gets a little worried about us when I havent posted in a few days. So, I know he will see this.

Things I have learned from my Papaw:

Fresh peaches are better than canned. To this day, I cant eat canned peaches. He and Grammer had a peach orchard for years and we always had fresh peaches in the summer. The canned or even frozen ones just dont do it for me.
Family is extremely important.
How to bait my own hook and catch sunnies with a cane pole.
There is great joy in having a garden and growing your own food.
Be prepared.
If the tractor doesnt start, try saying "contact" first...works every time.
Live below your means and save for a rainy day.
Compost is good.
When you are underage, dont steal a bottle of liquer from your Dad's cabinet. And dont throw it out of the bus window when there is 18 inches of snow on the ground. Because when you get back to your house, and your Dad notices the liquor is gone from the cabinet, he will make you walk back several miles in the cold to find the empty bottle and bring it back to him.
Dont take too many antibiotics, you never know when you might contract a rouge virus.
And finally....The older generation is a huge untapped resource full of valuable information.

Happy Birthday Papaw! I wish I were there in person to tell you how special I think you are and that I count you as one of my best friends in the entire world. I love you!

Saturday, September 09, 2006

First Days and Listmaking

First of all, thank you for all of the kind words and encouragement about all of the stresses of summer ending and more routine, routines returning. This week has been a big one for us. The big boys went back to pre-school! Yeah! It was a perfect opportunity for some creating. When we went to meet their teachers a few weeks ago, they said that it was going to be difficult for them to tell the boys apart. So, I thought it would be fun and practical to make the boys some rough edged appliqued t-shirts via Wise Craft with their initial on them. I drew out a big blocky Ian and a Zane out of some firetruck fabric I had and then the boys cut them out. But the letters didnt provide a good enough view of the trucks or the dalmations. The boys decided that they also needed a circle on their shirts to show the full truck with ladder, hoses and all. So, we added a circle to each of their shirts. But now it looks like their initials are IO and OZ...makes me laugh!!!! But the shirts were designed with 4-year old little hands, so as IO and OZs mama, of course love them.

(It took everything I had to resist the urge to just do it myself and make the shirts like I had envisioned, darn it. At least Wyatt hasnt developed an opinion on how his clothes should look, so I can still dress him like I want...he, he...at least for awhile.) And of course we had to make Wyatt one too. But I made his and with cowboys. I swear with a name like Wyatt, this kid is going to wear cowboys until he goes to college! But the older two wanted him to wear his t-shirt the same day to "match". When Wyatt and I got back from dropping Zand and Ian off, we went to breakfast and ran a few errands. Then we came back and played in HIS room with HIS toys. Ive never realized how the other two seem to dominate time and conversation. This was probably only the third or fourth time that we honestly sat in his floor and played with his things. It was really nice. I like only having one kid at a time. We had lunch and then he went down for a nap and I got some time to myself .

I made myself another cup of coffee and sat on the patio for a long time....listmaking. A list for housethings like painting and cleaning out. A list for Ms. Darla of things to get done on her site. A grocery shopping list and a list for S to tackle when he gets time with things like organize the shed and clean the grill (he's gonna love that). Amazing what an organizing kind of day can do for your mind. I feel much more in control and more set on purpose. *sigh* Oh, and Ive reconnected with a friend from past college days who recommended that when making a list of things to do, scatter things youve already done in your list so that those are easy to check off and you feel more accomplished. But Margo, isnt that cheating???? Oh, OK...well that didnt stop us from "helping" each other in the dorms, so I guess it wont hurt now. Love you and so glad we are back sharing bon-bons.

Monday, September 04, 2006

WIP... Me

WIP..., originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

So many bloggers seem to be posting Works In Progress ... I see them everywhere, beautiful photos of fabrics put together and hands cutting out patterns. I love that there is beauty in the process of preparation. But I dont even know where to start around here. If I took photos of all of the works in progress, I think flickr and blogspot just might kick me off for taking up so much bandwidth. But here is a bag Im working on that has taken me a week of evenings to get 1/2 done. I guess I cant crochet a straight edge to save my life, but I can crochet circles and flowers. (I know this is a crappy photo...sorry, camera is still having issues) Im using crochet, felt and some of the fabric from the vintage pillow sham that Aunt K and I found. But even these small crafting victories dont seem to lift the fog that I find myself in these days. When I get too many works in progress, I go nuts, I feel overwhelmed. I know part of it is the time of year. With school starting and summer coming to a close, I tend to feel like Im swimming up to my eyeballs with tasks, I feel like Im really, really behind. Where did the summer go and what do I have to show for it??? All of those things on my list arent dont yet! I mean, I have been busy all summer, but what is actually at a "DONE" stage? Well the answer is not much. The wallpaper border in the kitchen is still 1/2 peeled and the kitchen has not been painted. I still have not started the painting in the dining room or hallway. Wyatt's outgrown clothes and toys still have to be gone through and divied up between new nephew on the way, new cousin on the way, little boy down the street and Goodwill. My craft/sewing area is a wreck and is honestly scattered all over the house. Yada, yada, yada...like I said the list is a mile long. For some reason at the end of a season I have a huge need to feel acomplished and ready for the next chapter. Well, Im certainly not ready. And quite honestly, I dont WANT to be ready. Im not ready to be done with this...

It drives S crazy that I get like this...that I cant just stop and enjoy being lazy, that I cant enjoy the downtime without stressing about all of the things Im NOT doing. Someone, anyone, please give me permission to just let it all go!!! Tell me its OK to not take a shower first thing in the morning, to feed my kids peanut butter on a spoon for breakfast, to go barefoot for the last 3 months, to hope that little fairies come in the night to do the dinner dishes, to just deal with the funny smell in my laundry room for awhile.

After I finish typing here, I will do as my mother has taught me. I will get out my yellow legal pad and start making a list...or lists. Something about getting it all down on paper makes it all a little more managable. And then to get to checking my tasks off one by one. And I will feel better.

My current WIP...me.

New Life For An Old...

New Succulent Garden, originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

Wok Lid? Yes, we have had the lid to our wok sitting around my kitchen for about two months now. I kept moving it from one place to another trying to keep it out of the way, but in eye-shot so that it would remind dear husband that he needed to reattach the wooden top knot handle. But, after getting pretty frustrated that it was yet again in my way, a lightbulb went off. I have seen so many succulent gardens lately and have wanted to try my hand at the little creatures. Most of them display shallow containers with rocks as top dressing. So, the idea was that this lid, which was soon to be going to the recycle bin, might make a good garden pot. After an interesting (em..nightmare) trip with all 3 boys to the garden cente r... wala!

I give you my first try at cacti and succulents. Ive read up on them some and they seem pretty easy to grow. Not much watering involved, I guess they like their feet pretty dry...that is good news for me. However, here in WI it has been raining for the last week and Im not sure how they will fare. Im tempted to bring them in and let them dry out a bit, but I keep thinking "how much more rain can we get?!?!?!". I sure wish I could bottle some of these clouds up and mail them South to Texas where they desperately need it. But that is another story.

Repurposing...check!

Thursday, August 31, 2006

A Year of Color: Inchworm

apple green with flowers, originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

Crayola calls it inchworm, but happythings calls it lime green. Here in this fabric, I called it apple green. But whatever you call it, I love this color. This one was an easy one for us as was orange. So many things are this color of green...new leaves of our lettuce plants, many of the boys toys, our caterpillars before they go into their chrysalis.

The photo above is from Grammer Shirley's stash that I blogged about before. You can see more of her fabrics on flickr. This color of green reminds me so much of new life and of spring ... and as the evenings are already getting cooler here, I now that spottings of this color will be few and far between soon. So we are having fun this week looking at greens. P.S. I encourage you to do AYOC with your kids because it is such a great way to show the sublties of colors and how to mix primary colors to get this amazing rainbow of other shades. Colors are amazing!

Monday, August 28, 2006

Composting 101

Compost in Orange, originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

What a photo to start this entry, huh? This is the bowl that sits to the right of my kitchen sink and holds the scraps that one of the boys will dump into our compost bin next to the garden. In this photo are coffee grounds, egg shells and the ends cut off of last night's zucchini. I know kitchen scraps are not generally a pleasant thing to write about, but it so appropriately shows our composting efforts. All of the earth friendly kitchen discards are tossed into our compost bin and will eventually end up back in the garden as fertilizer. We also add grass clippings, wood ashes, newspapers, shredded paper and leaves to the pile. In our garden, the plants deplete the soil of essential nutrients, so it is important to add nitrogen and other "vitamins" back to keep future plants healthy and growing. If done right, compost doesnt have an odor or attract pests. I know I'm totally weird for getting all excited about composting, but ... well, you already know Im a nerd. OK, here's more...

*insert photo of our garden and compost bin, blogger is being a thorn in my side* The compost is also used in my houseplants. Ive noticed that after a few years, my pothos ivy and others start getting yellow and tired looking. And if I repot them with a little compost, they come back 10 times happier. I also add a little compost to the top of the dirt and as I water, the compost trickles down to the roots and serves as a time-release fertilizer. (I've also learned that the arrowhead plant that lives in my kitchen loves the little bit of coffee leftover in the bottom of the pot, so don't pour it down the sink, give your plants a drink.) I also do the same thing with crushed eggshells. If you have the room, This Garden is Illegal provides a great tutorial on how to make your own compost bin from recycled wooden pallets or picket fence, or you can buy pre-fab bins like ours at garden centers or hardware stores. OK, so now you are thinking...that's really a great idea and all, but I dont have room to compost? Think again! If you are in an apartment, there are small under-the-sink style composters (vermicomposters) to buy or to make. For purchase, I like this one and to the left is a photo of one from IKEA. Or for you D-I-Yers, I love the directions the You Grow Girl site gives on how you can make your own out of a plastic bin. Its so easy and inexpensive! Just add worms...what kid doesn't like worms! Like I said above. It is one of Z and I's jobs to take the kitchen bowl of scraps and dump it into the compost bin. It has been a great teaching tool to talk about how the worms decompose our leftovers, make good soil, we put the soil back in the garden, the plants use the "vitamins" from the compost and then the process starts all over again. In light of our goals of living a more intentional life and our goal to expand our current composting efforts orts...here is the expanding part. I leave you with a little challenge to do your own version of composting. Whether it is pouring your leftover coffee on your houseplants, or making a full on compost bin, composting is a good thing.

Wednesday, August 23, 2006

Meet Scout

Scout Originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

After 2+ years without a dog in our family, we finally have added one and we are all so excited about it (read that, all of except Reggie the cat). Our last dog, Mazzy a black lab mix, died the day before Zane and Ian's first birthday. She was diagnosed at 7 years old with bone cancer. It was aweful and we havent been ready for another dog until now. Scout is so fun and full of personality already. She loves to crawl under things like our patio railing, barstools, chair legs and under the tomato plants. She enjoyed sleeping in the squash plants before they were taken out...sorry girl. The older boys are learning a lot about taking care of an animal and about picking up your toys before they become doggie playthings. Ian is the first to wake up and lay with this blanket and pillow right outside of her crate until she wakes up. Then he cant wait to come ask if he can let her out and take her to the back yard. Zane is really into "teaching" her. Wyatt still squinches his little face everytime she walks by because 50% of the time she gives him a big lick across his mug. In the two weeks we have had her, she has already learned how to "sit" and "lay down". So smart this dog is!

So, as the garden has moved from summer to fall, we've already moved on to thinking of doggy crafts. Collars, leashes, doggie toys, homemade treats, etc. She will need a bed once she is really house trained and can be trusted to be loose in the house. I picked up this vintage sheeting earlier in the summer and I think it would make a really cute bed for her. She is so super black that it has been hard to photograph her and with that I think she needs something light in color so that when Im taking pictures fo her she will show up, *snicker*. By the title of this entry, it means that Ive either fixed the broken camera or gotten a new one. Well...neither. Im living with its crankiness for now in hopes that it gets me through another few months. (living within a budget and with intention is hard sometimes!). But it can really be fun and it has done a lot for the creative juices around here and it has sparked some good conversations between all of us. More on that tomorrow!

Tuesday, August 22, 2006

A Year of Color, Week 6: Orange

Lettuce Seedlings in Orange Originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

This post was supposed to be titled "Meet Scout" and be an introduction to our new puppy, but the camera is on the fritz. It keeps telling me there is a memory card error when I try to shoot a photo. Even buying a new card is not fixing the problem. So, not sure if a new camera is in the future for us, or just trying to fix the current one. So instead, Im catching up on the year of color. Im really behind in blogging our entries for this growing group. Ive been posting them on the flickr group, but havent been following up with the blog. The boys love asking what the color of the week is and then hunting things to go with the color theme. Here's a wrap up for us! Week 6: Orange The photo above is of a great pot I found while curbside shopping with Aunt Karen a few weeks ago. It has found a new life with lettuce planted in it. The seedlings actually arent seedlings anymore as we have had 2 salads off of it now. But, since the camera (darned camera!) is not cooperating, you get seedlings in orange. Fire Zane did this painting earlier this summer of a fire. We put the orange paint on the paper and then he blew the paint around through a straw...so fun! And you've already seen my crochet flop in orange, so I dont need to post that again. Week 5: Hot Magenta (there's not much pink around here, believe me!) Im not a girly girl, so there just isnt much pink to be found in this house or even my wardrobe. I was at a total loss until Laura Lea mentioned that the dishtowel apron I did has a tiny bit of bright pink mixed with orange in the pattern. Here is the one photo I managed to enter.

Week 4: Chestnut This one was easy...I immediately thought of this little calf that was in the barn lot when I was visiting my folks last time. She was so sweet and walked right up to my Dad and put his little nose in his hand. Those of you who know my Dad wont be surprisedat this, as we have always thought of him as a "dog whisperer", "cat whisperer", "horse whisperer"...some sort of general "animal whisperer" I suppose.

And our sun tea...this has been a staple occurence around here all summer. It doesnt last long if not put in the fridge, but it doesnt usually last that long anyway. Mmmm....

And last but not least, my Mom is opening her new shop Main Street Mercantile in Weatherford, Texas and asked me to put together a logo for the new store. It will be within eye shot of the historic Parker County courthouse, so she wanted to incorporate it into the design. Here are 3 that I came up with...which one do you like best, I would love to have your input?

Thursday, August 17, 2006

Patterns and Pups

Blue Ribbon Quilt Patterns Originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

Things here have been crazy...read that more crazy than usual. Abuelita Sofia, Tia Claudia and family were in Chicago over the weekend. We were able to hang out with them for a day and visit Millenium Park and the Field Museum. So fun! And then "Fia" came back with us to Wisconsin for a few days of relaxing. Now those of you with Mexican relatives know that even relaxing can be a little nutso with 3 adults and 3 children in the kitchen. We attended the older boys' pre-school meet and greet on Tuesday. They are so excited to get back to their teachers and friends...so is the mama. They will be going three full days this year which will leave Wyatt and I with some good one-on-one time and maybe even a little more time for the ever growing sewing list of mine. Throw a little web design work in there and I think our days will be full. So, in short there hasnt been much time for thrifting...which is fine. Because with the new emphasis on living with more intent, I dont need a darned thing! So, Ill post about a find that I never noted.

Quilt patterns! Who knew they were so fun! Im loving the butterfly pattern...you know we've been all about butterflies here this summer. (Speaking of...we have 3 in crysalises right now awaiting their new outfits.) And this...

Not that Im really into Amish toys so much, but Im thinking of Christmas. And the older boys had boy dolls which really came in handy through the whole potty training thing. So, I think Mr. Mooch might be getting a boy doll too. But an added bonus is this little dog pattern! I cant wait to use some courderoy Ive been saving for this little guy...probably because of this big news! Meet the newest member of our ever growing family.

Her name is Scout (of To Kill a Mockingbird fame). She is a solid black German Shorthair Pointer and such a smart girl. YES a girl! S was set on a male, but I stood my ground and got myself some female back-up. More on Scouts adjustment to her new surroundings tomorrow.

Monday, August 14, 2006

Learning to Crochet...Take Two

WIP - Crochet, originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

My Grandmother Florence taught me to crochet when I was 8 or 9. My brother and I used to each go to one of the grandparents house seperately for a week and then switch. It was during one of these weeks that I learned to crochet. I remember doing chains and chains of single stitches. I dont even know what I did with all of those chains. But I do remember the afghans she made. We had one around the house for quite awhile...not sure where that afghan is now. Then later my Grammer Shirley taught me how to take old clothing, scraps, and leftovers of fabric, cut them into strips and wind them into balls. Then, using a giant crochet hook, make a small rag rug. I even found one at my parent's house last time I was there that I had started with Grammer...unfinished...in a basket. So, now I begin again...with iced sun tea with mint and a little help from The Happy Hooker. Im doing pretty well so far I think. Im not sure what Im actually making, but I just keep chaining and chaining and then undoing it all and starting over. But the boys found a great use for all of the single chains.

Why dog leashes of course! So, today I decided I should make a real something...a coaster for my coffee cup.

It looks pretty good from here...

But look at this?!?!?! I cant for the life of me figure out how to propperly turn around and start going the other wayand make it all look even and tidy. Its not that the book doesnt provide easy to follow directions and great photos of hand placement. Mine just doesnt look like theirs.

Maybe some strategically places buttons would distract the eye from the uneven edges?

NO.

So, if any of you more experienced crocheters (there I go again, pretending I know how to spell these words) have any tips for me or can see where Im going wrong, I would appreciate a few words of wisdom. I would relly love to make one of these or these crocheted bags from recycled plastic bags someday.... maybe someday. Muchas Gracias in advance!

Wednesday, August 09, 2006

Its A Swallowtail

Our first caterpillar finally emerged from its crysalis yesterday morning. I walked out onto the patio to water the potted tomatoes and there she was. According to What's That Bug our "flutterby" is a female Black Swallowtail. We didnt get to see her actually come out of her crysalis, but we have 4 more chances coming in the next few weeks. So, now the questions are coming from the boys. Zane: Are they all going to look like this one? Ian: Where is she going now? Zane: Why are her wings black? Zane: Where is her mommy? Zane: Is she scared? Ian: Can we go in now and get a snack?

She sat on the tomato stake for about an hour letting her wings dry. It was so great that we were able to just sit and watch her fanning. Then she flew off over the back fence toward the park. Of course then we made up a story about how she was checking out the kids swinging and she was flying through the water spray. Big Fatso will now begin her journey to Mexico. Have a safe journey Big Fatso!

Sunday, August 06, 2006

Going Green ...

Green Tomatoes, originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

Im not sure where to start with this post...I have so many things going through my head right now. So, this may be a lot of babbling and misalignment of thoughts, but here goes. Ive read several posts from fellow bloggers lately that accurately articulate a growing feeling Ive been experiencing. * The feeling that there is too much waste these days. * The feeling that there HAS to be a better way to raise our children. * The feeling that I dont want my children to grow up with the TV as their best friend. * The feeling that simpler is better. (is that even gramatical?) * The feeling that we all need to be more connected to our creator. * The feeling that I want to be safe in my own home. * The feeling that I want to know where my food comes from. * The feeling that I want our family to be active and healthy. * The feeling that I want to move more physically. * The feeling that I want to be more intentional in my purchases. * The feeling that I want to change my neighborhood. * The feeling that I want to do more good in the world. * The feeling that there are others who feel the same way I do. I mean, the things that our family has experienced lately is enough to make you want to join a commune with walls as high as Jericho and sing "kumbaya". Seriously. In one of the many amazing conversations Ive had with my Papaw, he asked me what a BLOG was and why was I writing one. It caught me off guard to be quite honest. Im not even sure what I told him at the time, but after thinking about it here is my answer Papaw. I have several (read that many) beautiful journals sitting empty on my bookshelves waiting to be written in. And nothing. But for some reason, sitting at the keyboard, the words just seem to flow. Especially after a glass of wine or two. (you didnt just read that Mom) With the gift of S (husband) being home more with his current work position, I have been able to find the real me again. I have been able to listen to the news again. I have been able to research issues online again. I have been able to have somewhat intelligent conversations again. I have been able to reconnect with those of the present and the past. I have been able to feel creative again. For all of that, I am greatful. I feel much more connected to the real ME. Reading African Kelli's blog has reconnected me with my trip to Nicaragua and what I felt while being there and how vowed that things would be different when I returned. That trip changed me, it changed the mother I am and would continue to be. It changed my marriage and how S and I connect. It dramatically changed our whole family forever and I cant wait to take them all back there. With all of the above in mind, I pledge this. 1. To eat only when I am truly hungry. 2. To continue to have a garden and to expand it as much as I can. 3. To share as much of the natural world with my children as I possibly can. 4. To move everyday and to not resist the movement that the boys seem to need. 5. To buy locally and organically when possible and to teach my children where their food comes from. 6. To expand our current recylcing efforts. 7. To walk when it would be easier to ride or drive. 8. To repurpose when I see an opportunity. 9. To not shelter my children and to expose them to the world however hard it might seem (within safe guidelines of course). 10. To make our own cleaning products and to reduce our use of harmful chemicals. 11. To use what crafty supplies I have and to use them for a better good. 12. To cook more and more and more for my family so that I know what they are eating. 13. To eat only dark chocolate and not milk chocolate...I had to throw that in just for fun.

14. To realize that I might screw up ... alot ... but at least its a start. Now, some of this might come as a surprise to many of my friends who read this and never post a comment. It might not seem propper for a wife of a military man. But this is who I am... who I was, before I lost myself. So there, I said it. I feel better. If you made it this far, thank you for reading. And all the people said ... Amen!

Friday, August 04, 2006

Picking

Picking, originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

This morning was finally much cooler than the last week has been. It was so nice getting out before the boys woke up to do a little watering and picking. The acorn squash that has been growing up the fence between our house and Ms. Dorothy's have wilted down quite a bit, so I watered them a little extra...hoping they recover. They are set really heavily, so I hope we dont loose any of the amazingly beautiful squash. It would really be a shame. I stayed up late last night. I couldnt sleep ... maybe it was the cup of coffee at 6 p.m. that did it?!?! Im sure. But I finally got my stuff together to make one of the dishtowel aprons that Ive seen around. Im probably the last one to get to this, but I hadnt found the right ribbon to use as ties. I like how it turned out and it was so nice to wake up and put this on first thing.

Im really enjoying wearing aprons around the house and garden. It reminds me so much of my Grandmother Florence and the other amazing homemakers in my family. Well its Friday, so we're off to the farmer's market to see what we can find. Have a great day!!!

Wednesday, August 02, 2006

We''re Still In Firetruck Mode

Willy Woo-oo-oo, originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

The older boys are going on a year now of an obsession that does not seem to have an end in sight...firetrucks, fire fighters, boots, bunker pants, masks, gloves, k-tools, ladders, hydraulic scissors (oh yes, we know all about hydraulic scissors), air tanks, helmets. You name it, we know it. We've read every firetruck book in the library (seriously), we've watched all of the movies many times over. Even an obnoxious one about a man with a mullet from Hawaii singing "Lets Be Safe". So, I thought I would share a little about our firefighters' world. The above is a vintage book that I found at a thrift store and of course had to pick up. The cover is wonderful as are the illustrations inside. And then there is this... and this... oh, and this... ...a fire station made from an egg box complete with pole and beds for the firefighters. And we found an entire flickr group dedicated to firetrucks. Here you can find photos of firetrucks from all over the world. The boys could sit for hours with that group set to slideshow mode. I think that is a good thing?!?! Isn't it?!?! Then I was over at Repro Depot fabrics looking to use a coupon I had gotten via email and found this vintage inspired firetruck print. Gotta have some of that for future use...Im thinking something for Christmas.

So , needless to say, the neighborhood we live in is safe with these 2 on duty!

September 18, 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

Archive #2

Tuesday, August 01, 2006

Year of Color: Sly Blue

Vintage Mexican Redware, originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

Here is my submission for Happy Things, A Year of Color. This week the color was sky blue. The boys and I really had to work on this one. We have lots of cobalt blue and baby blue and cornflower blue, but the perfect shade of sky blue was tough. But I found that several of my vintage Mexican redware pots have this lovely color of blue painted around the side.

And then the boys pointed out that Wyatt's stroller is sky blue. "Look Momma, the same as the sky...click it !!!".

Maybe later in the week, we'll see more sky blue around our house and our neighborhood.

Changes

Caterpillar Shedding, originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

We've had big changes here with our little charges. So I thought I might provide an update on the caterpillar project for those of you with kids (and my Grammer and Papaw) who are following their little journey. The above photo is how "big fatso" looked when I went out to feed them on Saturday. He was looking a little pale, so I started watching him. Then he really started wriggling around as if he were trying to get out of a wet t-shirt, so I called the boys over to see. Ms. Dorothy from next door even brought her grandson over for the show that was about to start. We werent sure what was about to happen, but then ... this... and this...

After I mentioned to the boys that his crysalis was soft and wet, of course they all wanted to touch him, so I had to take this one through the plastic viewing window after we decided he needed some privacy. Ta Da! Zane kept yelling "He did it! He did it!" and Ian quickly followed with "You DID do it Big Fatso". So funny! We have 3 more that look like this. Im guessing that they will be going through the same "change" in a few days. We also have two more that look like this...stowaways on the parsley that Ms. Dorothy brought over to help out with the feeding. They've already eaten an entire large parsley plant and it just cant keep up. So for now, big fatso is calm and quiet in his new crysalis and awaiting his new outfit. We are so excited to see what he will actually looklike. Will he be a bright orange and black like a monarch? Or more like the graceful swallowtail? Or something completely different and equally amazing? Oh, the waiting...

Saturday, July 29, 2006

WIP (work in progress) - Gemelos

WIP - Gemelos, originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

Remember these ... well now it looks like this! And only after 6 short months. I took the embroidered piece of the boys self portraits and hand stitched them to a piece of red felt and then embroidered the words "gemelos" which means twins in Spanish. Now I only need to pick the fabric and stitch up the pillow that will hold the felt. Lets hope that doesnt take another 6 months. I was working on this during the boys naptime and Zane came downstairs before I finished. He wanted to help, so I gave him his own embroidery hoop, string and the most blunt needle I could find and held my breath! He did awesome!!! He worked on the orange and yellow and then when Ian woke up he wanted in on the stitchin' action of course. I didnt have another embroidery hoop and he didnt want to wait for Zane to be done, so he added the blue and green to what Zane had started. I think they both did really well. Maybe Ill make a coordinating pillow to go with the one for me. However, that might take this little project well into 18 months at the rate we're going around here.

Wednesday, July 26, 2006

Sweaty, Dirty Boys...Cooling Off

Tres Ninos, originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

It has been hot, hot, hot here the last few weeks!!! All of our friendly neighbors who had been previously hanging out on their front porches have all gone back inside again. But this aint nothin'...this coming from a TX girl who had an outdoor wedding in July when the daytime temp. had been 115. Whew! Now that is hot! But we are not giving in to the temperature. We've been playing a lot on the dirt pile at the park. Who needs swings and see-saws when there is a dirt pile...right? And then there are the caterpillars to keep our attention. Now, I was a biology/polsci major in college and have spent many an hour reading entomology text books, but watching these little guys with my little guys is amazing! The first thing Ian did when he got up this morning was go out onto the patio to see how they were and how much they had been eating. I think we might have to go buy some more parsley plants. Luckily the herbs are all on sale right now and this one was only 50 cents, because they eat A-L-O-T for such small creatures!

By lunchtime one of the little black ones had already changed colors and now looks like a smaller version of the big fatso one. That is what the boys have named the large caterpillar...big fatso...and I think Daddy had a hand in naming him. Wouldnt you hate to be a beautiful swallowtail or monarch butterfly (we're still not sure) with a name like Big Fatso...the poor thing. But back to changing, it was miraculous how quickly the small caterpillar changed. I want to photograph one of the others like every hour or so next so that you can acually see it. (*like I have that much time?!?!*)

But you see the smaller black caterpillar in the second photo? See that little stripe of yellowish-green? That stripe continues to get bigger and the orange spots start to lighten. Like I said, its amazing and Im loving sharing this with the kids. We've been having some great conversations about changing, growing, eating, etc. And we have been doing a lot of this...

I know fall is just around the corner and the winter to follow after that, so we will continue to enjoy our summer while we can.

Button Crafts

Button Flowers, originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

In an entry below, I picked up a strand of vintage buttons for next to nothing. Now what? Button flowers from Kiddley of course! We had so much fun doing these. Zand and Ian helped and picked out each button with precise care. However, they did not want their button flowers in the same vase as mine. Theirs belonged no where else but the garden. (I told you all of the crafts bring us right back to the garden) Ian wanted his button flowers to grow in the thyme-oregano pot that sits on the patio table. And Zane's went into the big garden near the watermelon that he watches daily. I think they make GREAT garden decorations!

Monday, July 24, 2006

A Year of Colors and the Garden

Acorn Squash, originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

Similar to the week of colors where we had SO much fun, we are now participating in A Year of Color by Happy Things. It is a group put together to host a different color of the crayon box every week for 52 weeks. This was one of our entries for the color lemon yellow. We missed last week's white, but we're on track now and the cameras are ready. This photo was taken today of one of our many (and I mean many) acorn squashes that are growing vertically on our back fence. We've been having so much fun in the garden this year, my heart just sings everytime the boys spot a bug and scream in excitement or they WANT to help pull weeds or they wake up early with me and want to accompany me to water early in the morning. Im loving this summer in the garden. I started this blog for many reasons...one of which was to show crafty things that I was making. Sorry everyone, but the garden has taken over. Crafty things to follow in the fall and winter months. I come from a long line of listmakers and have a list a mile long of things to make when the weather starts to turn. But for now, its all about the garden and the outdoors. There are many more photos that have been added to our garden set on flickr. Just click the link to the right to see what's growing these days.

We found a few caterpillars on our parsley plants and decided to move them to a critter container and watch them through their transformation into a butterfly. The third photo is the same caterpillar about two weeks later. I did some research and I think we have swallowtail butterflies on our hands...but we shall see in a few weeks.

Wednesday, July 19, 2006

Mamas Got a Brand New Bag

I have been admiring (read that drooling over) the bags that Amanda of Soulemama has been creating. And when I saw this fabric in one of her posts, I immediately loved it and was anticipating what she would do with it. Well, when I saw this, I immediately went over to Etsy to see what it had in fact become. A bag!!! A vintage curtain bag, purse, haul-it-all. It arrived in beautiful Soulemama style...

..and was immediately snatched up by Ian. He thought it made a wonderful backpack for all of his firefighting gear.

I dont know if the boys over at Engine Company #3 would agree,

but I played along with the fasionable firefighter until bedtime. Im mean, you've gotta encourage that good taste in a boy. As soon as his eyes were closed, I couldnt wait to snatch it back! Good taste or not, this bag was definitely made for a mama. Perfect for 2 diapers, a sippy, a few wipes, and the other essentials. Thanks so much Amanda for making such a perfect bag for me.

Monday, July 17, 2006

A New Header and Other News

As you might have seen, I have changed the header to more reflect a "vintage chica". I like it! What do you think? I think Im going to change it every season or so. What can I say, Im liking change these days. Also in the news...Aunt Karen and Uncle Ted are here visiting from Texas. The boys were so excited to see them they decorated the kitchen walls with drawings of (can you guess???) firefighters, firetrucks, hoses, fire hydrants and k-tools. Aunt Karen and Uncle Ted seemed to love the custom welcome banner. We have really been enjoying their visit. Aunt Karen has been reading every book the boys (including Wyatt) bring to her and they are being schooled by Uncle Ted in the tricky lyrics of the "Peanut, Peanut Butter...Jelly" song. They even offered to watch the kids so that S and I could catch up on some much needed "together" time. We just went over to Lake Geneva, but it was so nice to not be cutting someone else's meat during dinner and wiping bums. The B&B we found was completely aweful, but sleeping in until 9 a.m. made up for the bees coming out of the sink and the lack of soap in the room. But that's another post. While Z and I were napping, we left Mr. Mooch with Uncle Ted and S, so that Aunt Karen and I could go a little junkin'. We headed over to Racine to the Good-Goodwill that I had heard so much about. And it lived up to its reputation. I could have spend $50 in there! Im still thinking about the old wooden high chair that converts to a toddler desk and chair that we just couldnt justify mailing back to TX. Ugh! The one that got away!

vintage sham + vintage pillow case + buttons strung as a necklace = $3.50 total Its so much more fun to junk with a partner...thanks Aunt K!!!

Tuesday, July 11, 2006

Garden Harvest

Harvest, originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

This was our first big harvest day! We had so much fun pulling the carrots and the beets. We''ve been picking lettuce since May, but it continues to com back with a vengence every time I cut all of its little leaves off. S and I had an incredible salad with the lettuce, spinach, sun dried tomatoes, carrots, feta cheese and a little olive oil and vinegar...mmm...

I sliced the beets really think and fried them like potato chips and they were devoured in a matter of seconds (not minutes) by all 3 boys. Today I need to pick peas. Last week, not one pea actually made it to the table. We had so much fun opening pods and eating them raw, right off of the vine. But isnt that the best part, eating it right out of the garden!

Here is another pic of Zane washing his carrots...he was so proud of them. It was awesome watching his big eyes get even bigger as that orange carrot was being pulled from the ground.

garden before...

garden after a few weeks and lots of good soaking rain. I swear we're going to have enough acorn swquash and zucchini to sell at the local farmer's market! Its taken over everything and Ive had to start training it up the fence. Ms. Dorothy next door ought to love that. The tallest plant you see is a volunteer sunflower that is just about to bloom. I hope its soon, because the squash has alreay attached itself to the base of the sunflower and heading up.

Well, off to the library with the boys for Im sure more books on firetrucks. Have a great day!

Sunday, July 09, 2006

Vintage Corn Service

DSC03208, originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

All summer, Ive been meaning to spend every Saturday morning at rummage sales and poking about, but it hasnt happened. It always seems to be one thing or another... S on duty, or fussy tired kiddos. But yesterday I got to do a little junque shopping and picked up a few things. The main find was this Vintage Serv-Rite Delux Corn Service Set! I love it! S's favorite food in all the world is fresh sweet corn grilled in the husks and this is so perfect for that. He doesnt usually appreciate my vintage finds, but he loved this one...it was right up his alley.

You can still see the price on the pic below...$2. It came complete with the butter container that looks like the ear of corn, eight corn *bowls, plates, boats*, four small salt and pepper shakers, and then eight sets of corn holders that look like little ears of corn and then eight more that are just yellow or green (I dont think they were originally part of the set).

We are expecting some very special visitors later this week, so I need to get to the farmer's market ealier this week to pick up some fresh corn to match my perfect set.

Saturday, July 08, 2006

Vintage Fabrics from Grammer Shirley

mother and daughter with red shadows close up, originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

Ive been wanting to share some of the wonderful vintage fabrics that I scored last time I was in Texas and finally got all of the photos taken. My Grammer is now in her 80s and doesnt really sew much these days. So my mother had 3-4 grocery store bags full of scraps that were headed to Mana (a charity). Im so glad I go to rummage through them before they were lost. The one above is my absolute favorite! Im not sure what each of them were used for, but she was a major crafter/sewer and always had a WIP (work in progress) for a community bazaar or her home demonstration club. I remember lots and lots of Chirstmas ornaments, stuffed dogs for children's hospitals, doll clothes, etc.

Im not sure what I will do with all of them. I am looking for a project that will use one or two pieces from each of them...something that will last a long time. I immediately thought about something for each of the boys, but as most of the fabrics are pretty flowery and girly, I guess it will have to be something for me until I have grand-daughters... *sigh*. Not something like a piece of clothing or a bag that will be used too much as to wear the pieces out...maybe a lap quilt or something. I got the new (or not so new) Denyse Schmidt quilt book for my birthday, so Ive been perusing it for some creative ideas. If youve got a great idea, I would love to hear about it. I just want to honor the amazing gift she has given my mother and me - the love of sewing and great fabrics. Arent they wonderful!!!

Sunday, July 02, 2006

I guess Im a Daffodil...

I am a
Daffodil

What Flower
Are You?

Thursday, June 29, 2006

Fun, Fun, Fun on the Web

Ive been afforded some extra roaming time on the web the last few days and like always, Im just amazed at all fo the creativity and fun! So, I thought I would share a few of the sites that will be added to the margin of links on the right.

The boys and I are enjoying a new website from the founders of Loobylu called KIDDLEY. There are so many great ideas on this site already and I cant wait to see it every couple of days. Their most recent post is a review of Going on a Bear Hunt by Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury...one of ur all time favorites and currently in the car CD player.

And then from the Kiddley site, I ran across an ad for Mahar Drygoods...vintage inspired artisan goodness for adults and kids. Ive seen this image somewhere else, I know it...I just cant put my finger on it, but their offerings are well...amazing. I fell in love with it all, but especially love the little activity aprons and snap t's. I guess I need to go work some more for Darla to make enough to come back to this site. From the YYG site, I found this great blog...This Garden is Illegal She has a great post about ridding your garden of slugs. They seem to be my nemesis these days. They're eating my lettuce and most of the new blossoms of my acorn squash. I can remember salting the darned things as a kid and watching them wriggle and goo....ewwww. It was gross, but so fun!

OK, off to update Ms. Darla's site and catch up on a few other of my fav. blogs. You gotta love the early morning when everyone is still sound asleep and you remembered to set the coffee pot. *sigh*

Wednesday, June 28, 2006

Voices from a 20th Century Cookbook

1905 20th Century Cookbook, originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

I mentioned below that on my last trip home to Texas, my Papaw gave me a most wonderful gift. He asked me how old what the oldest cookbook in my collection. I answered that I had one of my grandmother's from the 50's. He then asked if I would like to have one from the early 1900's. Oh my gosh...of course!!! It originally belonged to my Papaw's Aunt Grace Herdrich. That would be my great-great Aunt Grace. I was honored enough to know her before she passed at 109 years of age. I have loved leafing through every single page of this reading it like a summer novel. It has some great recipes in it...some I cant wait to try. And some recipes that I dont even understand. I think back then, they assumed a lot in recipes. I keep finding directions like "make a light pastry and add...". It just assumes that I have the recipe for a light pastry in my rolodex of a brain. Not this brain. But Im sure Aunt Grace did. I wanted to try her recipe for strawberry preserves to use some of the strawberries from our pick'n last week and came across this recipe right between Quince Honey and Currant Jam.

"How To Preserve a Husband" Be careful in your selection; do not choose too young, and take only such as have been reared in a good moral atmosphere. Some insist on keeping them in a pickle, while others keep them in hot water. This only makes them sour, hard and sometimes bitter. Even poor varieties may be made sweet, tender and good by garnishing them with patience, well sweetened with smiles and flavored with kisses to taste; then wrap them in a mantel of charity, keep warm with a steady fire of domestic devotion and serve with peaches and cream. When thus prepared they will keep for years.

There are more photos of this amazing treasure on our vintage flickr set. I think I might make Aunt Grace and her vintage cookbook a regular part of the blog. It is chocked full of interestingness like the above and much more. Hope you enjoy it!

Saturday, June 24, 2006

Summer Strawberry Pick'n

The boys and I went strawberry pick'n this week at Anderson Farms in Bristol. Of course, I think we ate just as many as we picked. The boys had a wonderful time and it was the most beautiful day just to be outside. Ian and Zane did a wonderful job of picking only the red berries, but Wyatt picked a few that were...well, shall we say...they weren't quite done yet. So this week we have had (in my best Forrest Gump voice) strawberries in jello, strawberries in Cheerios, strawberries in smoothies, strawberries on pound cake.

And then I made a huge batch of strawberry preserves from Aunt Grace's 1905 cookbook. (more to come on this amazing gift from Papaw)

Sunday, June 18, 2006

Happy Birthday Monkeys!

the boys with their friend Josh as their birthday party last Saturday see more pics here

Ive never been really sentimental or sniffly about their milestones...I dont think Ive really had time to these past 4 years, so I wont start now. Here are a few 4 year old facts about each monkey.

Monkey #1, aka Zane Oscar Favorite food: Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches Favorite past-time: Riding bikes without training wheels Favorite color: yellow (like his mama) Favorite toy: Firetruck that has lights and hoses

Monkey #2, aka Ian Marco Favorite food: Chicken Nuggets and French Fries Favorite past-time: Swinging on the swings high, high to the sky Favorite color: dark blue Favorite toy: Fireman outfit

OK, so maybe a little sappy. When you came into our lives, I had no idea how you all would change things. Zane you were demanding and cried so much lounder than your brother Ian, but would quiet down the minute we put you next to him. Even in the picture above you have your head laid on Ian's shoulder and at night we usually find you asleep in Ian's bed. Ian you were more laid back and much more intentional and detailed in your movements. And true to yourself, you still are the puzzle and game master. Both of you are outgoing and friendly. You are always the first to share in a group of kids and always show a great caring for your friends.

There have been times the last few years that I didnt know if I could be a good enough mama to you, but you both continue to shower me with your wet kisses and your "make me fall over" hugs, so I guess you all think I must be doing an OK job. My prayer for each of you is that you go into the world ahead of you prepared to make a difference. You both can do anything you set your minds to. Happy Birthday my creative, beautiful, imaginative, colorful, smart, wonderful, lovey boys!

A very special HAPPY 4th BIRTHDAY to my two monkeys, Ian and Zane. I really haven't posted much about having twins, even though it is a pretty significant part of my life. But these two guys are amazing. Who would have thought that the two scrawney little barely 5 lb. babies above would look like this 4 years later.

Saturday, June 17, 2006

Color Week: Red

Beet Stems, originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

Beet stems from the garden - We cant wait for the beets. (and yes, we skipped the color blue on Thursday...ooops!)

Wednesday, June 14, 2006

Polished Glass

polished glass, originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

This doesnt relate in any way to the week of color, but these are the colors Im staring at lately on my kitchen window sill. These wonderful pieces of polished glass were brought back to me by the boys (all 4 of them) from their little boys only jaunt a couple of weeks ago. I finally got a shot of them and I have to say that Im pretty proud of it...one of the few photos Ive taken that I genuinely like. Enjoy...I am!

Week of Colors: Black/Gray

black peeling paint of our vintage metal glider: robin nestlings: glass blocks in our bathroom

And a shot of the gas well at my parent's place in Weatherford, Texas ... sure hope it's pumping Mom and Dad.

Week of Colors: Brown

This is the oak top of my kitchen table. I bought it from the estate of my Great Aunt Grace. One of my last memories of her was when we went to see her on her 100th birthday and sitting around this kitchen table with a red and white checked table cloth on it and eating macaroni and cheese.

Tuesday, June 13, 2006

Week of Colors: White

monday :: white

tuesday :: brown

wednesday :: black/gray

thursday :: blue

friday :: red

The boys are I are participating in Little Bird's week of color. We participated in the last week of color and it was so fun to see what colors 4 year olds find in their world. We are already behind as it is Tuesday. But this morning we walked to Oliver's Bakery to order their birthday cake for Saturday and on the way we stopped to take some photos that will be posted later this week. They werent so keen on the gray or brown, but the bold colors were lots of fun. I guess I should take that as each of them has BOLD personalities. So, here are our pics for the color white.

((( ugh, its not letting me upload pics...maybe later)))

And here are a few more photos of "white" that are from my last trip back home to Texas. I have been waiting to share some more of them and this seemed like a good time to.

Saturday, June 10, 2006

Another Milestone Met Head On...Or Helmet On!

Ian and Zane learned to ride their bikes without training wheels...yes, you might want to watch out on the sidewalks now...they are both riding two-wheelers. This past week they told me that their training wheels kept bending because they were riding their bikes too fast and we needed to take them off...right now Mom! So, we got dad's tools out and took them off. We practiced in the backyard on the grass with full padding on and they both got pretty good at going straight. And when S was home this weekend we all went to the Roosevelt park where there is a nice concrete slab with a perfect downward sloping on ramp for takeoff. And THEY DID IT!!! Wide turns and all. I was really not ready for this. You know, this mamma is OK with the first day of school, first dentist appointment, first major trip to the ER. But it is these kind of milestones that really get to me the most. I just stared at them and couldn't believe how big they looked on their big boy bikes. Here are a few more pics and of course one of Wyatt cheering them on.

Birthday Mail from Aunt Karen!

We received a wonderful package (as all Aunt Karen's packages always are) this week. Even when I was a kid, she always had the best wrapping paper and found the best treasures inside. I always remember her sending things with my name engraved/embroidered/painted on them which was a treat...my name having an unual spelling and all. The boys loved digging into each little individually wrapped package. Thanks Aunt Karen!

Oh, and she sent 5 new books and the mama appreciates something to read at bedtime other than the 5,000 firefighter books we have already read. Ill add our favorites to the sidebar.

We're Expecting...Robins!

The boys and I have been having so much fun watching the robins who have built a nest above the porch next door. We watched them collect little bits and pieces of string and twigs and examined things that fell and were discarded as not acceptible nest building materials. We put dryer lint in our trees hoping the robins would think it would make a nice nest liner. And now, they have babies. We're not sure how many, maybe 2 or 3, but the parents are in and out constantly feeding those open mouths. The boys are always looking out for them in the yard and have even wanted to dig in the garden for worms to leave out for them so that they dont have to hunt for their own. It have loved their questions about where the robins fly and how high they can go. Zane said that if he were a robin he would fly to the park everyday to play on the playground. And Ian said that he wouldnt eat worms if he were a robin, he would just each chicken. Im actually going to miss them when the time comes for the little ones to leave their nest. I just hope they decided to learn to fly while Reggie is napping and not in his latest favorite sunning spot which happens to be right below their nest.

Thursday, June 01, 2006

How Does Your Garden Grow...

Tuesday, May 16, 2006

Loving the Vintage Aprons

DSC02348, originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

Im just loving all of the vintage apron information that is out there these days. So, I thought I would share a little info. The above is a pic I took of some aprons on display at Mom's shop when I was in Texas.

Here you will find a most wonderful group of women who each make an apron a month based on a selected theme. Last month's theme of "yellow and white" is posted here. The creativity of these women just floor me every month. I still have yet to participate, but this month's theme...smocks, so maybe I will finally get involved. I just look at all of their aprons and somehow dont think I will measure up.

And over at flickr, there is a whole group who post pics of their vintage aprons or ones that they have picked up at yardsales or while thrifting.

And then there seem to be many companies that are starting to reproduce aprons for those of us who love connecting with those wonderful homemakers of the past like here and here.

There is even a great site with vintage aprons for sale here at Crafty Wench.

So if you buy a new apron, buy a vintage apron, or just pull the one your grandmother gave you when you were 12, put on an apron and see how it changes your view of your kitchen. It makes me want to whip up a double batch of banana bread (using my mother's recipe below of course.) Have a great day all!

Friday, May 05, 2006

A Huge Thank You

Holy Cow...just look at this little package that arrived from the UK yesterday. And not part of the Ladybird Book swap (see below) that I signed up for, this package was all for me. Just because Kristy over at Vintage Pleasure is so kind, she sent an additional package with a few little things for me. She is taking a little break from blogging, but if you havent been over to her blog yet, check the archives out. We share many of the same vintage preferences like napkin rings and a mental block when it comes to whether she should sell something on ebay or keep it all to herself,LOL! Thanks Kristy!!!

(my favorite, a postcard with a birthday wish for a dear son)

(a paper lantern, all folded up)

Sunday, April 30, 2006

Home Sweet Home

You know, everyone needs a home...a place where they feel grounded, connected to something larger than themselves, where everything seems to come into focus. Last weekend I went home...to Texas...to see my family and to try to catch up with Maurrie from the Cowgirl Caravan (which didnt work out...but that's another post). But it was such a great trip for many reasons. First and foremost, it was a reminder of who I am and where I have come from. It happens everytime I visit my parents ranch outside Weatherford, especially in the Spring. I leave with a renewed sense of myself and of the strength of the women in my family who continue to inspire me. My grandparents celebrated their 62nd Wedding Anniversary while I was there. What an amazing thing to be married to the same person for so long. My grandmother winked at my grandfather so many years ago and the rest is history...I love you Grammer and Papaw, thank you for providing such a wonderful example of a marriage for all of your 6 grandchildren and 7(soon to be 8) great-grandchildren. My Mom and I picked wildflowers...bluebonnets...yummy...wild verbena, something that resembles stock, buttercups, wine cups, etc. We almost didnt have enough vases to put them all in when we got back to the house.

I also got a good dose of some vintage cookbooks and recipes. My parents still have all of Grandmother's cookbooks and I went through some of them. She was amazing...page after page of hand clipped recipes from the newspaper from the 40's and 50's and later. I asked my Dad if she actually made all of them and he said she probably did, LOL! I guess she was really good about finding a recipe and trying it out soon after. (I really need to work on that, my box is filled with recipes that I have copied and never used). And I finally found the recipe for her skillet cookies...oh how I loved the skillet cookies she made during the holidays. Ill have to post it later. And from the other side of the family, while I was at Grammer and Papaw's, my Papaw asked if I wanted my Great Aunt Grace's first cookbook from 1907!!! Are you kidding?!?!?! Of course I would. So I spent the good part of that afternoon reading through "proven" recipes for a poultice, recipes for spiced peaches (which Papaw said he never liked), and directions on how to store meat for up to a year. So interesting! Well, the monkeys are about to start a revolt, so Ill post more on the trip later. Ive got more material for this blog that I could have ever hoped for. Have a great Sunday!

Friday, April 14, 2006

Wyatt is 1 Today!

I cant believe (everyone always says this, but it is SO true) that a year has gone by since I was delivering Wyatt Samuel San Pedro into this family. We were waiting and waiting and waiting for his arrival and he finally did make it one day past his due date. Its so strange, like he was always apart of us, just not in the world yet. He completes the family. He adds an amazing joy and laughter to our lives. He is the first to giggle and scream at the dinner table and then before you know it we are all teary from laughing so much...at such simple things as a funny hat Zane wears, or a funny noise Ian makes. Heck even Daddy's farts make Wyatt laugh. Yes, even that. I was so worried that he would have a hard time being the younger brother of older twin brothers, but he has made his mark in a short time. As soon as those thoughts enter my head, I see him entertaining them with his head stands, or them entertaining him with their made up songs about firetrucks. And as I sit back with a cup of coffee and watch, truly take the time to watch him, I am simply amazed. I have really cherished each little milestone he has accomplished much more than his older brothers. Even with 3 boys instead of 2, he brings with him the permission to take a minute and breathe and laugh. He is amazing ... and I have been in love with him since almost exactly a year ago. Happy Birthday Wyatt, my funny, sensetive, soulful, snugly bugly, awesome, beautiful child!!! I cant wait to see what the next year brings. Thank you for choosing me to be your Mama!

Thursday, April 13, 2006

Thursday...Orange

After looking back at my photos from the last few weeks, we dont really have any with much orange. But, here is one.

We met a good friend and her little boy at her cottage (more on her amazing cottage later) in Woodstock, IL. We tried to go to the local Easter egg hunt, but was 5 minutes late and we missed it all!! Those Woodstock people are on time!!! So, we picked up the empty eggs, put them in our baskets and had our own in the garden around the lovely cottage. Our friend dug around and we found enough baskets here and there in the house for all of the boys to use. It was great. A much better hunt for sure! And here are a few more pics of the boys and their Easter eggs.

A Break in Colors for Mail

We received the most wonderful package from Kristy over at Vintage Pleasure today in the mail. In a little swap she cooked up, she sent the boys 3 vintage Ladybird Books. Ian quickly snatched the one about dinosaurs, Zane proudly shows the one he chose about transportation and Wyatt thingks the book about rockets tastes pretty good ... how perfect for us. They were wrapped so perfectly and the package smelled (yes, smelled) wonderful. The boys kept smelling the paper saying "These books smell pretty, Mom." And they did smell pretty...almost as pretty as the pink twine that held the whole package together. I meant to get a pic of the package before we opened them, but well...we love mail here. Here are a few pics that I did manage to get taken in the craziness. Thanks so much Kristy!!! (Yours went out in the mail on Monday)

Wednesday...Red

Tuesday, April 04, 2006

Tuesday...Blue

Monday...Yellow

I have signed on to the "Use What You Have Month" Revolution that is taking place around the crafty blog arena. Im sure my husband will be extremely excite to see this. He is anxiously awaiting the day I start making some money on these little things Im creating here and there. Im getting close, but just as I get $50-100 to breaking even, it seems I end right back up at the fabric store or Dick Blick's buying more supplies! So, Im committing to you and the world, that for the Month of April, I am using what I have (unless I need it for a project that will pay me $$$, he, he).

Sunday, April 02, 2006

Obsession...Sterling Silver Napkin Rings

It all started with my Mother inheriting a sterling silver napkin ring from my Great Aunt with her name "Grace" engraved on it. She started collecting them and I must have inherited that gene honestly b/c I find myself with now about 29 of them in all different shapes and patterns.

This one is one of my favorites. If you can't see in the photo, the name "Lulu" is in script with leaf patterns on each side. I love the rings with names engraved on them. Like so many antiques, it makes me wonder who they belonged to. I picture lavish dinners with fine linens and a full table set. How wonderful!

I haven't been able to find any (at a reasonable price) in quite awhile. I see them on ebay frequently, but they go for upwards of $25 each. I think I paid $30 for 12 at an antique auction a few years back.

Right now they are in need of some major polishing but that doesnt seem to ever make it to the top of the ever growing to do list. Maybe tomorrow.

One Project ... In the Mail to Guam!

One box headed to Guam to Jaime including her business cards, mailing labels, notecards for Little Frog Creations plus "hands" notecards and also birthday gifts for Landon and Seth...whew. It seems like this took me a month to finish this one box, but with being visited weekly by a different sick bug, Zane's recent trip the to ER (I will spare you the pics of that) and Sergio's work schedule...its been NuTs! But its off and I cant wait for it to get there! I didnt post pics of the birthday gifts, I will after the package arrives. Zane and Ian had so much fun putting them together. They are really getting good at picking just the perfect gifts for their friends. We went to a birthday party on Sat. for a little friend of theirs named Sydnie and when I asked what Sydnie would like, Ian quickly spoke up and said that she liked "pwincesses" and Zane added that she liked "pink girl stuff". So we made her a necklace with pink and purple beads (sorry no pics) and bought her a Princess and the Pea book from our favorite bookstore in Woodstock. Hopefully someday they will be this thoughtful with picking wedding anniversary and birthday gifts for their wives...fingers crossed!

September 18, 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

Going Green ...

Green Tomatoes, originally uploaded by erensanpedro.

September 17, 2006 in growing, repurposing | Permalink | TrackBack (0)

Archive #1

Skipping Spring

Since Spring has obviously decided to come a little later, rather than sooner, to Wisconsin...we have decided to just skip it all together and jump right to summer!

Zane and Ian decided we needed to make some flip flops and all I had at the moment was some cardboard from a wonderful box sent by our dear friends from Guam. So, we repurposed the box and made sandals! The boys wore them most of the morning until we had to go out in the rain and cold to make a quick jaunt to JoAnns for some supplies for the next round of projects. Spring had better hurry up around here or we really might just skip it!

Tuesday, March 28, 2006

Seafood Platter

For the Corners of My Home group on Flickr, here is my recent submission...the mongo (how many gallons of water is that?) fishtank in our basement. It totally makes the room look like a Red Lobster, or maybe a dentist office. The 20 or so koi in the tank really are meditative to watch, but its just so darned HUGE! I would love to paint the dark wood, or mosaic it or something, but we're just not going to be in this house long enough to really tackle a project like taht. I hope the next owners of this house like seafood!

Friday, March 24, 2006

We're Making Our Own Spring

After doing our "Goodby Winter" dance and still now sign of Spring, I decided we would plant a few lettuce seeds like my Grandmother Hays used to do...in egg shells. Once the seedlings are big enough to go into the garden, you just plant the whole egg shell and all. It works great and will look so nice for Easter! (And no Mom, that isnt my good salad plate from my Williams & Sonoma set...nope) We also planted some in egg cartons. Here is the progress of our planting.

They're starting to sprout, can you see them!!!

And the little seedlings stretching toward the sun. I have to turn them a couple ot times a day to keep them straight. We're really enjoying watching them and its been a really great teaching tool. We've talked about the seasons, what seeds need to grow, and about what would happen if we forgot to water them. FUN!!!

Thursday, March 23, 2006

Monster Shirts All Around!

After seeing the great monster shirts that xxxx is doing on DishyDuds, we decided to create our own shirts for this summer. We even made one for Wyatt and I have a feeling we will be sending many of these out to the many friends and family who are having birthdays this summer. How cool are these!!! I just need to finish them with a little stitching around the perimiter of each shape, but as my sewing machine's timing needs to be repaired, looks like I will be hand stiching them one of these nights while watching a little late night Bravo.

and Wyatt's "Goofy Gus" Monster

Ian's "Crazy Eyes" Monster (a little glue still drying from a misplaced eye ball)Zane's "Happy Man" Monster

Tote Bag Patterns on the Shelf

Ive had these tote bag patterns for a few months now. But having designated this week as "finish it!" week, I have vowed not to start any new projects until my to do list has been significantly whittled down. So, they may have to stay on the craft room shelf a little while longer. But I feel like Ive got a $20 bill in my pocket and Im walking around the dollar store. I just cant wait to dig into them.

Thursday, March 16, 2006

Y is for Yellow

I just ordered this little gem from the Farm Chicks site....they have several more, but I just seem to be drawn to the color yellow. I was on Etsy browsing around and spent way too much time searching by the different colors of yellow. Ive always loved yellow walls, but have never liked it for much else as far as clothing or jewelry. But I just saw this pendant with vintage wallpaper enclosed under glass and HAD...I mean HAD...to have it. Luckily they take paypal, he, he. Maybe Im sort of drawn to it because Im just so darned desperate to see some sun these days. Isnt it amazing how when the sun hits a corner of your house just right, you just want to put a comfy chair directly in that spot and curl up. Reggie the cat does it all the time, why shouldnt I?!?! So, here's to the color yellow...the color of the sun. Oh, and here are a few more yellow pics that I found on Flickr. Hope they bring little rays of sunshine to you today!

Monday, March 13, 2006

Recipe Cards for the Shop

Just finished some recipe cards for the shop. They come in sets of 8 cards. One has a vintage senorita in the corner...how great would they be to share your guacamole or sangria recipe.

And then one with a cowgirl...I can see this one with a brisket recipe on it or how about a recipe for your Dad's bbq sauce...mmmm...Im getting hungry just thinking about those good ol' Southern recipes Im missing living up here in WI.

Alright, so Im a little behind in posting. But as you know, Im raising three kids who have been sick off and on all winter, trying to get this little business off the ground, do mounds of laundry and cook a little in there somewhere. Im still learning to to balance the priorities of it all. I get swamped in one area and then the others seem to mount up.

But on the "watch for Spring 2006" we saw hyacinths yesterday!!! We were all taking a walk to the park and there were bulbs, all kinds of bulbs, peeking their little heads up from the soil. I stopped to explain to Ian that they meant that Spring was on its way. He immediately responded with "Does that mean we can wear shorts yet?". I told him no, and he gave me a look like...let me know when its shorts weather and Ill show you some excitement Mom.

We went to the library this weekend and I found some wonderful 1960's and 70's craft books. I just might have to renew them a few times. There is so much wonderfulness to see, it might take me a few weeks to absorb it all. Also, the boys found more fire fighter books. I think the library has secretly detected Z and I's obsession and has started adding more firetruck books to their collection. Everytime I think we have read every fire related book they own...more seem to appear.

Wednesday, March 08, 2006

Truly Scrumptious...

my recipe box...recipe posted below

Today was a better day...the sun was shining and it was 52 degrees outside. Z and I went to pre-school (without asking to stay home), I put Wyatt down for a nap, closed his door and opened up the house. Wooohooo! It was so, so great to actually see those little sicky germs fly right out the opened doors and windows. I did some major cleaning...things like wiping the phones, doorknobs and lightswitches down with chlorox wipes. Hopefully we will all be feeling much better when we can be outside again. Come on spring!!! After the monkeys got home from school we made Omah's banana bread...mmmm....some pics of the process.

the mashing of the bananas

batter covered beaters...I love Ian peeking from behind the bowl

And of course...the finale...licking the beaters

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Here's the recipe for: Omah's Banana Bread 1/2 c. butter 1 c. sugar 2 eggs 1 tsp. vanilla 1 1/2 c. flour 1 tsp. baking soda 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 c. nuts 1 c. mashed banana (or about 3-4 medium sized bananas) 1/2 c. milk 1/2 tsp. vinegar

Mix well and bake for 1 hour at 350 degrees... Eat with real butter immediately. Enjoy!

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Oh, and the title of this post is from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. The boys have been watching it at least once a day (usually for rest time) since we borrowed it from the library. Truly Scrumptious has been floating around in my head all week. But I guess there could be worse things floating around in my head.

And lastly, Maurrie received the Sisters on the Fly goodie box I sent with some samples. She loved them all!!! She wants to do some notecards, quilt squares, magnets, bracelets and maybe a few other things. Yeah for me...my first original designs are coming soon!

Monday, March 06, 2006

A Totally Unproductive Day...But Was It?!?!

This morning the monkeys (a.k.a. Zane and Ian) woke up with a slight cough. And when I say slight I mean like the kind of cough you wake up with and then dont think about again after you have some juice...that kind of cough. And it was snowing like crazy. And they have not really been wanting to go to pre-school these days. So, when they asked if they could stay home today, I thought about it and decided that everyone needs a snow day now and then. I had grand plans of staying in pjs and watching movies and getting out in the snow when it stopped and hot chocolate. Then a nap for them and finishing these looming projects for me. Yeah right! They argued and fought over every little thing today. How many cheerios each one of them had, which movie they were watching, who was going to wear the "warmie, warmie" pants with the flannel lining. I mean everything was a battle today. However, last night I finished the boys embroidered self-portraits and got a pic of them today. That's something accomplished, however little it was.

Here is Zane and Ian's original self-portraits from pre-school

And here is my first embroidery project based on their artwork

And while I was finishing two chalkboards and matching erasers for Mom's shop, the boys (including Wyatt in this group) got into the fabric scraps. Here is what they came up with. They wanted to put together a firetruck with a building on fire and a fireman. Here is how they each interpreted that theme.

Zane's firetruck with the fireman on the ladder spraying water on the fire. Can you see it?

And a few shots of their creative process in action. Making their placemats was actually the bright spot of the day. After that, it was back to the arguing....argh! Oh well, Im savoring the good times.

Gotta go work on the website now. Talked to Jaime and she said some links were broken, so gotta go do some html'ing tonight. Tomorrow is SPT, so maybe Ill get some guts and feel like participating.Ian's firetruck with ladder and hose and the fireman next to the burning building smiling. I asked Ian if the fireman was going to put out the fire and he said, not yet. He was waiting for "back-up".

Weekend Paint-a-thon and a Bus. Update!

Friday I had gotten some new paints and large pads of paper,

so on Saturday we painted up a storm!!! The boys wanted to wear their new art aprons, which I was thrilled about. They are officially broken in judging by all of the paint on them. Here are a few pics of the boys handywork.

I got my first custom orders this weekend for napkins with a cowgirl image on them and some more notecards. Yeah for me! Maybe this little business thing is going to work afterall. Also on Friday, Mom sold $120 of the Will James books I bought on ebay. So, that will be a nice check to look forward to.

Ive really got to get busy on some projects around here. I need to finish the embroidery of Ian and Zane's self-portraits. I also have so many things 1/2 finished for my mom's shop that need to get out and SOLD! I need to make some more money before I buy anything else. I finally made a list of all of the projects running around in my head. Now, I just need to work on one at a time and focus on finishing things...my weakness. FOCUS, FOCUS, FOCUS I did some cowgirl dishtowels that Im pretty proud of. Maybe I can get some pics later today and get them posted. Also got some more magnets done and some buttons.

Also on the list is looking into an Etsy account. It is such a great site for

handcrafted goodies. The Ebay crowd just doesnt seem to be drawn to handmade items. So, maybe Etsy would be a better route.

Friday, March 03, 2006

Corners Of My House

I would really love to start posting pics to the Corners of My House project on Flickr started by Soulemama. I love her stuff. But Im just not happy with my photography yet. I need to read the book that came with my camera and see what I need to change. Everything just seems so dark. But actually they reflect my mood lately, so maybe they are quite appropriate. Winter is wearing on me in a big way. I cant wait for Spring. Papaw sent me a pic of a Robin spotted in Ohio, so maybe it is on its way. I guess Ill go get my Burpee seed catalog and start ordering some things to put in the garden this year. That otta' cheer me up!

Kids with Cameras...Ian

Ian got ahold of the camera today after we got home from school and took these pics of Wyatt eating lunch. I thought I would post them. I love the fact that the camera angle shows you the pics must have been taken by a wee one...either that or by Regie (the cat). Enjoy!

Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss!

Ian and Zane celebrated the birthday of Dr. Seuss (actually Theodore Geisel born March 2, 1904) today by wearing their pajamas to pre-school. We got to school 20 minutes earlier (which is really on-time) because no one got dressed. Well, I did, but I kinda thought the teachers would look at me funny if I went in my PJs too! So, last night the boys and I gathered up all of their favorite Dr. Seuss books and did a little display on the kitchen counter.

They brought home a green eggs and ham project that I will post a pic of later. So, happy birthday Dr. Seuss. Many generations of children thank you for your wonderfully funny books.

Wednesday, March 01, 2006

Getting Into Thrifting Shape

Wyatt and I went to work out this morning while Zand and Ian were in pre-school...a little exercise of a different kind. We went to the brand new Goodwill here in Kenosha. One word for you -- awesome! Look at all of the great little items we picked up. I didnt get a chance to go through all of the linens I wanted to. Mr. Wyatt's little hands were way to busy grabbing every little item made of glass or paper. So, maybe next week!

Ianand Zane will love this one...they continue on their firetruck obsession.

A Tiny Tales book of Cowboy Bill. I plan on using this one to scan images to use for other projects.

An awesome kid's art book titled Emphasis: Art, A Qualitative Art Program for the Elementary School. I leafed through it and it has amazing pics and ideas. I cant wait to read through it tonight in the bathtub.

Tuesday, February 28, 2006

THRIFTCRAFT

Just found the awesome new blog byHillary of Wee Wonderfuls fame about thrifting and repurposing called THRIFTCRAFT. Cant wait until spring now so that this darned cold will go away and I can get out thrifting and garage saling!

Tuesday...Library Day

Well its later than late and the big boys just went down. We had a successful trip to the library today. I thought we had read every fire truck/firefighter book the library had, but no! The librarian found 5 more for us to bring home. We also got Pippi Longstocking, The Drinking Gourd and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (the old version). So, they were very occupied with their library treasures today and I got to get caught up on reading some of my favorite blogs. Soulemama continues to inspire me every day, as does Angrychicken and so many of the amazing crafters in that circle. Love, love, love their stuff. Maybe I will one day be able to hang with those gals...until then, only dreams of knitted sweaters, felted flowers and amazing quilts. Oh, and on a strangely happy note...Wednesday is trash day. That means Tuesday is empty the house trash into the big garbage cans outside day. The older boys love pretending they are garbage men helping me empty all of the trash cans in the house into their plastic trash sacks and taking them outside. And I love (read that love, love) getting all of those stinky diapers out of the house even more!! Wooohoo for trash day!

Monday, February 27, 2006

Package Going out to Sisters on the Fly

After talking to Maurrie Sussman of Sisters on the Fly (aka Cowgirl Caravan), I put together a goodie box of vintage inspired goodness. Included in the box was an apron using her trailer on the pocket, a few notecards, 8 marble magnets and a picture frame bracelet. Here are a few pics.

I hope she likes what I sent her...we shall see. The waiting is going to kill me. I want this job!!!

Friday, February 24, 2006

Ice Skating 101

Ian and Zane went ice skating with their pre-school today. I showed up at 10:35 with Wyatt to take some pictures of them so that Sergio and the rest of the family could see them in action and when I walked in to the rink, Sergio was on the ice WITH them! He had taken off work early to come see them skate. He even put on skates and skated around with them. It was so great! Nothing like having the Daddy home. They really did well. They fell quite a bit, but that didnt seem to slow them down a bit. They both got right back up and on their skates again. They (and we) had a ball!

(I was also playing with the light features on the camera, so apologies for the "whiteness" of the photos.)

Marble Magnets

I did a few marble magnets this week and I just cant stop...someone, please tell me to drop the silicone glue. They are so fun!!! The boys even got into it and have started collecting pictures of things they want to use for magnets. We had an old enamel table top from a kitchen piece that had lost its legs and had been sitting out by the shed since the fall. I brought it inside this week so that we can display the magnets on it. The boys love it.

These found a home next door with Ms. Dorothy.

I scaled down the boys' artwork on the computer and did a few. I used regular printer paper...duh...need to use photo paper next time.

Here are some we made for the Nebels

We've made more since I took pics of these. Maybe Ill get pics up later. So, so fun! Im loving doing all of these projects with the boys...for the most part. Aunt Grace's kitchen table has a little more paint and glue on it than it did when it was in her kitchen, but I think she would love the idea of its new life in our house.

These are headed to the Houin house one of these days...unless the get used to living here.

Shinky-Dink Try-Outs Take 1

Ian concentrated so hard and really drew "things" I could make out...a dinosaur and a firetruck.

Zane is my little abstract artist. He colored the whole shrinky-dink sheet in...every little inch. He's also been wearing that hat EVERYWHERE. Even to bed tonight.

But here is what happened after we put them in the oven!?!?!?! I followed the directions to a "T" and even read them again for the second batch, after the first ones turned out all rolled up.

My butterfly...one of the survivors.

But the boys didnt seem to care they they didnt turn out exactly right. They really enjoyed watching them shrink in the oven. So, we tied them all together with some twine and ran christmas lights around them and hung them in their room over their beds. So, as I am typing, Im listening to them talk about which "shrink-a-dink" is Zane's and which is Ian's and the counting of the different colored lights.

A few of them turned out.

Flickr

This is a test post from

, a fancy photo sharing thing.

Tuesday, February 21, 2006

Happy Tuesday!

Well...the munchkins (all 3) are resting (read that napping), so Im catching up on some work around here. It was a very productive morning. Got the kitchen cleaned up, picked up downstairs an made it to the UPS store all before 11 a.m. VICTORY! Two packages off to my Mom for her store, package to Jaime, package to Alicia (breastpump for Tracy) and 2 other orders out the door. Yeah for me! And my lazertran came in the mail today! Another score! Cant wait to try it out tonight after the littles are in bed and S is asleep.

September 17, 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)

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September 2006

Tuesday, September 12, 2006

Embroidery In The Car

Sunday, September 10, 2006

Happy Birthday Papaw!

Saturday, September 09, 2006

First Days and Listmaking

Monday, September 04, 2006

WIP... Me

New Life For An Old...

Thursday, August 31, 2006

A Year of Color: Inchworm

Monday, August 28, 2006

Composting 101

Wednesday, August 23, 2006

Meet Scout

Tuesday, August 22, 2006

A Year of Color, Week 6: Orange

Thursday, August 17, 2006

Patterns and Pups

Monday, August 14, 2006

Learning to Crochet...Take Two

Wednesday, August 09, 2006

Its A Swallowtail

Sunday, August 06, 2006

Going Green ...

Friday, August 04, 2006

Picking

Wednesday, August 02, 2006

We''re Still In Firetruck Mode

Tuesday, August 01, 2006

Year of Color: Sly Blue

Changes

Saturday, July 29, 2006

WIP (work in progress) - Gemelos

Wednesday, July 26, 2006

Sweaty, Dirty Boys...Cooling Off

Button Crafts

Monday, July 24, 2006

A Year of Colors and the Garden

Wednesday, July 19, 2006

Mamas Got a Brand New Bag

Monday, July 17, 2006

A New Header and Other News

Tuesday, July 11, 2006

Garden Harvest

Sunday, July 09, 2006

Vintage Corn Service

Saturday, July 08, 2006

Vintage Fabrics from Grammer Shirley

Sunday, July 02, 2006

I guess Im a Daffodil...

Thursday, June 29, 2006

Fun, Fun, Fun on the Web

Wednesday, June 28, 2006

Voices from a 20th Century Cookbook

Saturday, June 24, 2006

Summer Strawberry Pick'n

Sunday, June 18, 2006

Happy Birthday Monkeys!

Saturday, June 17, 2006

Color Week: Red

Wednesday, June 14, 2006

Polished Glass

Week of Colors: Black/Gray

Week of Colors: Brown

Tuesday, June 13, 2006

Week of Colors: White

Saturday, June 10, 2006

Another Milestone Met Head On...Or Helmet On!

Birthday Mail from Aunt Karen!

We're Expecting...Robins!

Thursday, June 01, 2006

How Does Your Garden Grow...

Tuesday, May 16, 2006

Loving the Vintage Aprons

Friday, May 05, 2006