Care's Finds

melissa sandals

2011-05-16T14:49:00.000-07:00

I came across this shoe company, and like a lot of their shoes. If you live in a wet climate, and always worrying about whether or not it's going to rain and ruin your shoes, these are the ticket! They're rubber, and come in basic + fun colors. A few of my faves below...

what i wore wednesday

2011-05-11T10:12:00.001-07:00

Have you heard of WIWW over at the Pleated Poppy? It's a linky party that showcases what people wore over the week. I've been wanting to do this for awhile, but can never seem to remember to take pictures of some of my cuter outfits. But here I am, with one little ensemble. I know this isn't the best picture, but our apartment hallway is the best place for picture taking. I know...sad. But outside, it's been snowing here in WY. Yes...snowing...in May. Ugh.
tee: Target, scarf: repurposed skirt, jeans: hudson, shoes: steve madden, belt: ebay

I always like seeing pictures of the person behind a blog - it's nice to put a face to all the words you're always reading. So here's hoping you feel the same!

put it on the fridge

2011-05-06T12:54:00.000-07:00

I saw one of these beautiful magnetic puzzles on the front page of etsy the other day, and just had to share with you! It's by seller Pipe Dreams 2010. What a great learning too + piece of art! The wood on this particular map is stained according to time zones, and I originally saw a USA map stained by regions. I'd love to see my kids playing around with one of these on the fridge.

physique 57

2011-05-04T11:46:00.000-07:00

Anyone do this? I've heard some good things about it, but don't know anyone personally that uses it as their workout. I'm looking to get into something new, and this looks do-able.

What kind of workout does it for you?

swimwear

2011-05-02T08:24:00.000-07:00

Oh, how I love anthropologie. On their website, my cart is always full of items that I only dream about actually buying. Last week, I realized I don't have a swimsuit that fits me, so I went to anthro looking for inspiration. I found this, and this.

I think those stripes going every which way in the first would definitely be figure flattering. And I'm diggin' the ruching and modest look of the polka dot option. It would help with the post-baby tummy.
I went surfing around for similar suits at lower prices, and came up with these. Here, and here.
That first is a pretty good substitute for the stripe. And I actually ended up buying the polka dot suit. It arrived in the mail Saturday, and it fits like a glove! I'm so excited. Over $100 less than the anthro version. I realize that the look is a little different, but it has that overlay piece to give the same feel on the bottom, it has the ruching, and I'm wearing it with the removable halter strap that came with. I do like the smaller polka dot print better, but I was definitely willing to compromise with the difference in prize.

60's green

2011-04-28T08:36:00.000-07:00

If this beauty of a lamp were just a teeny bit taller, I'd snag it for my living room. I need (ahem, want) a funky green or yellow vintage lamp for a little color.

{i sew} easter outfits

2011-04-27T12:53:00.000-07:00

I have an obsession with making (sometimes buying) my kids matching outfits on Easter and Christmas. I even made myself a matching skirt last Easter. This time around, I had found some clearance green sweater fabric, and wanted to make this vest for the boys. I made up Addie's cropped sweater, then did a simple double layer elastic waist skirt. The idea also came from here. I've made elastic waist skirts before, about a million of them. Why haven't I ever thought of a double layer? It's so cute and easy, I'll definitely be doing it again. The skirt and bowtie fabric came from some curtains that my mom gave to me. I know it doesn't look like it actually matches the sweaters very well, but I promise that in person it does!
Besides the cute kid faces, I really can't stand these pictures. I took them really fast after church, just outside on our teeny porch. I need to find a good place for picture taking around our apartment, there aren't too many options that I've found so far.

being silly

some fashion talk

2011-04-26T13:42:00.001-07:00

I like keeping up on fashion - seeing what the new color of the season is, the new trends, I always get the September issue of Vogue, etc. Doesn't mean I always look so fashionable, but I try to use my closet staples and add a few trendy items every once in awhile. Even if it's just an accessory like a new necklace or belt.
Lately, I've been following the blog Kendi Everyday. I heard about this blog from my friend Brooke, who is always super stylish herself, and should have a style blog of her own! Kendi is a cute girl that lives in Texas, and posts her adorable outfits almost daily. And what I especially like is that she tells where she bought her pieces, or where you can find something similar. There are so many ensembles of hers that I love and have tried to replicate with my own closet. Sometimes successfully, and sometimes not so much! I really love the above stripes on stripes combo she's doing.

Do you have any fashion blog favorites?

give it a spin

2011-04-21T07:35:00.000-07:00

Don't you love beautiful wooden toys, even if they're for kids? If I had it my way, my kids would only own old-fashioned wooden toys that look as good on the shelf as they are fun to play with. Like these spinning tops, found at The Wooden Wagon. My dad has a similar top that he always gets out when the kids come over....I think I'll be adding to his collection with one of these beauties.
all images from The Wooden Wagon

knock knock

2011-04-20T13:45:00.000-07:00

Anyone still there? I hope so! I'm back into the online world again, with a new header and everything! Are we over chevron prints yet? Even if the design world is, I don't think I ever will be. Love a good chevron. A lot has happened over the last 4 months since I last posted, among other things:

new job for the hubs
we had our third baby in january
a move to wyoming!

Wyoming is a big change from Oregon, everything seems totally different. Some things I've noticed so far - there are no trees, people wave at you in the car even when they don't know you, the town I live in has to be the muddiest in America, the schools are really great, fruit and vegetables are expensive (compared to OR) because everything comes from so far, and our new little community is quite the happening place despite its' small size.

Anyway, my new plan is to post at least 3 times a week. I just can't keep up the everyday thing with a new babe. I was too overwhelmed, hence the blogging hiatus. And I plan to add in a little more of my sewing projects and shop updates, since that's what takes up most of my free time these days. How's that sound? I need you to keep me in line!

In honor of my new home state, you can get 15% off anything at cm crafts when you enter the code "wyoming" at checkout. It's good until May 20th! I also have a spring sale going on, so you can really score some things at a good price. Lots of new bloomers are up, in some really great vintage prints, and I'll soon be adding some fabulous little fascinators, cocktail hats, hairpieces...whatever you want to call them.

Some more fun finds coming up too here on Care's Finds!!

shiny

2010-12-09T06:34:00.000-08:00

I'm making a trip to the new H&M (first one in Portland!) this weekend with some of my very stylish friends. Among other things on my list, I'm definitely going to check out these little metallic baskets. Great for holiday decorating and beyond. I think I'm jumping on the metallic craze bandwagon.

felt resource

2010-12-01T08:03:00.000-08:00

I saw a great resource, through oh happy day, for felt balls. So you can make this, or this, or this for the holidays. Or whenever. (I'm thinking specifically of you Bekah!) Go here to get your supplies.

what to do?

2010-11-30T06:10:00.000-08:00

I found this little group of vintage buttons at a garage sale this summer and have had them stashed away. Now what can I do with these? I was thinking possibly earrings out of the red and/or pink set, they'd make a perfect gift (if not for anyone but myself :)). But it might be somewhat difficult to take those bars off the back of the pink ones. I need some ideas people...

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-24T07:51:00.000-08:00

I'll leave for the weekend with this cute printable Timothy Le Turkey from mibo studio. Have a wonderful holiday weekend everyone!!

{Mibo's 2011 printable calendar just released today too - it's really colorful, pretty, and affordable because you download the file and print it out yourself. Plus if you buy it before Dec. 3rd you also get a free advent calendar!}

count with me

2010-11-23T08:32:00.000-08:00

Beautiful counting balls from Jack's Beanstalk on Etsy. There are lots of pretty felted goodies in her shop.

more felt projects

2010-11-22T07:49:00.000-08:00

I love felt and the projects that people make with it! It's such an easy medium to work with, and if you use the right stuff (I'm talking 100% wool here), simple little projects can look amazing. I'm totally making these bird ornaments; oh, and this garland.

Also, if you've checked out cm crafts and like the buntings, head over to Noodles & Milk today for a giveaway!

embellish your knits

2010-11-18T06:52:00.000-08:00

Seriously, Kathleen from Grosgrain is amazing! For the entire month of November she's embellishing thrift-store cardigans, and they are all turning out so cute! If you haven't seen her creations already, go there now. I think my favorite so far is this orange one below, that she posted yesterday. And what's especially great about this, is that she gives tutorials on everything she does. Now I want to go buy a bunch of ugly $2 sweaters!

cuddle up

2010-11-17T07:44:00.000-08:00

These noonies from lala's pequenos look so cuddly soft, as do the babies in them. I'd want to keep my little one snuggled up in one of these all day long!

get out your hooks

2010-11-15T05:09:00.000-08:00

Are you drawn to knit and crocheted items when the weather gets cooler? I definitely am. And not just in the form of scarves or gloves. Enjoy these little crocheted lovlies! (the first one you can make, and the second would be a great stocking stuffer!)

little urchin rocks from purl bee

crocheted soaps from anthropologie

root beer

2010-11-10T07:43:00.001-08:00

I came across this gift idea quite awhile ago and have had it tucked away in my brain ever since. For her husband's birthday, Erin Jang of Indigo Bunting bought 24 different kinds of root beer, put them in a vintage soda crate, and made a cheat sheet with the characteristics/tastes of each brand. Brilliant. I think this sort of thing could work with many different items. And it's great for those husbands that are hard to buy for!

rob ryan

2010-11-05T11:23:00.000-07:00

I love the work of artist and paper-cutter genius, Rob Ryan. His etsy shop is full of little goodies - I need this tape. It would be fun to use this to wrap presents.

But his latest thing that's on my wishlist are these Four Seasons plates, available for pre-order here. Take a peek at his other home accessories while you're there!

stocking stuffers

2010-11-04T16:05:00.000-07:00

Yes, I'm already thinking Christmas. It happens every year for me as soon as November hits. I like to be ready early, and try to accomplish most everything by the beginning of December. I was in REI today, and spotted these Lego lights. I especially like the headlamp guys, and the key chains, and they also had bigger flashlights as well. All the limbs move as regular legos do too. My 6-yr-old would definitely dig these.

gifted + tutorial link

2010-11-03T08:17:00.000-07:00

Love this new online magazine, Gifted. It's really well done and has tons of ideas.

Also, hop on over to the blog Noodles & Milk today and find a web ad tutorial I put together! There will also be a cm crafts giveaway there later this month.

vintage oddity

2010-11-02T11:03:00.000-07:00

Some unique necklaces from Vintage Oddity's Shop. I can't get over the brass knuckles, I'm sure it would get a few laughs. Love her little felted pin cushions too!

ballooning scarf

2010-10-28T12:07:00.000-07:00

A cute vintage find from darlington etsy shop.

note-trition

2010-10-27T07:47:00.001-07:00

Usually when I think of the ModCloth website, it's hundreds of dresses that come to mind. I don't think I've ever actually looked much at their other offerings. But these notepads were something to be looked at! I think it would be hard to use one though, and rip off all those cute little pages.

acorns + hot glue

2010-10-21T09:33:00.000-07:00

At my son's bus stop, there is a huge tree that litters million of acorns all over. We started collecting them one afternoon, with plans to make something with them. The tops fall off pretty easily, so I decided to make a wreath.
I'm sure you've seen this over at MADE, so I know I'm not coming up with some revolutionary idea here! (and I just now realized I painted it the same, and used orange ribbon too). I've never seen acorns here in Oregon like the ones she used, but the tops of ours worked just as well.
Of course the kids were eager to help, so they came up with their own acorn project. Color index cards, and attach the tops with elmer's glue wherever you want. I thought they were pretty inventive, and a quick little fall project.

tiniest earrings

2010-10-20T15:53:00.000-07:00

Are these the cutest little earrings or what?! If you've been reading this blog for awhile, you know I have an obsession with mini things, and acorns definitely fall into that category. So when I saw these on etsy's front page a few days ago, I instantly clicked over.
I currently have a few acorn projects I'm working on, and was planning on sharing. Along with today's earlier post involving a woodland theme, you hopefully won't mind an acorn mini-week!

count with me

2010-10-20T07:56:00.000-07:00

What a cute addition to a child's room! I adore the illustrations and colors on these woodland counting flashcards from Ink Tree Press (who's also having a BOGO sale this week!). I would totally hang these on the wall above baby's crib, with simple rope and clothespins like pictured in the shop. She also has alphabet flashcards too!

wee wonderfuls

2010-10-18T11:37:00.000-07:00

I want this fun little book! My daughter loves dolls and can never have enough. I'd love to make her a few from these patterns, and some extras for gifts as well. There's a review and projects from the book here at the purl bee. I had fun getting a little sneak peak.

last day

2010-10-15T08:41:00.001-07:00

Don't forget, today is the last day to get free shipping at cm crafts with the code cffreeship
I put some new stuff in there, so visit the shop today!

jelly belly

2010-10-14T10:35:00.000-07:00

I'm borderline obsessed with jelly belly's lately. Best and worst flavors in my opinion, just sayin'

Top 5 Best Flavors
Peach
Strawberry Daiquiri
Juicy Pear
Toasted Marshmallow
Pink Grapefruit
(apparently I'm a fruity person)

Top 5 Worst Flavors
Peanut Butter
Bubble Gum
Buttered Popcorn
Licorice
Cinnamon

What are your favorites?!

grass

2010-10-13T14:15:00.000-07:00

I like a lot of the modern baby products from boon, but I think this one is my favorite.

gigi nightstand

2010-10-12T07:52:00.000-07:00

So much character in this little nightstand from UO. I think I'd choose the gray for my bedroom.

my seasonal home

2010-10-08T12:39:00.000-07:00

My mom and her friend are putting their design talents to work at My Seasonal Home. They're focusing on front porches right now. When you go to the website, you can choose from several different porch designs, small to big, as well as a la carte items. They come and set it up, then take it down at the end of the season - no hassle for you! They're currently booking for Fall and Christmas/Holiday designs. Check them out here!

all about teeth

2010-10-07T12:52:00.000-07:00

We have a first wiggly tooth at our house! I've seen so many great looking tooth fairy pillows and ideas out there over the years, and just recently came across these.

I like all the pillow options at Sugar Foots Shop.

Or if you like to DIY, there's a ton of patterns you can easily find, including this little cutie.

And this Project Toothfairy Kit from Paper and Twine is adorable and so well designed. It comes complete with a mouth chart to mark the losses, tooth fairy dust and business cards, a cloth bag, and history of the tooth fairy.

my bentos

2010-10-06T12:23:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd share an update on the bento making at our house. It's been so fun for me to create these little lunches. Usually I just stick with a color theme, or add some fun picks. But here are a few that I put a little more thought into. Giraffes, circles, and bears.

As I showed in my last bento post, I get most of the ideas from Another Lunch. And I found all the supplies through that website as well - Easy Lunchboxes, and bento picks/forks from J-box.
My favorite little tools have been the mini cutters though. You can find the romantic and noah's ark sets at JoAnn Fabrics, and use the 40% off coupon from the Sunday paper to buy these for only around $2 each! I use them to cut out fruit leather, cheese bites, and cucumbers. So fun!

modern radar

2010-10-01T12:24:00.000-07:00

I'm loving the screen printed designs at modern radar.

back in business

2010-09-29T11:10:00.001-07:00

A couple weeks ago I had the first sale in my etsy shop, cm crafts! Woo-hoo! Although I opened the one at big cartel, I still kept one thing in my etsy shop, and it sold. After kicking my butt back in gear, I have the shop restocked and will continue to add things over the next couple weeks. So you might be seeing more shop updates on here than in the past.
And as a special for my readers here, through October 15th you can get free shipping on anything when you enter cffreeship in "message to seller" when checking out. Happy shopping!

The buntings are back
Mommy-daughter matching skirts
And the newest item - baby bloomers! I love these, and have plans to make more with some bows on the back of the legs as well. Don't you just love the rolls on those baby legs?! Thanks to my friend for letting me borrow cute baby Claire for a photo shoot.

g g & l

2010-09-27T22:34:00.000-07:00

I'm back again! Seems like I can't stop from taking these big breaks from blogging lately. Let's just say I've been a little stressed, and haven't spent a lot of time on the computer (which is kinda nice actually!). But I did go out shopping last weekend by myself, at one of my favorite "window-shopping centers", as I call them. The place where you go to look at all the pretty things that are a little out of the price range - you do this too, right?
Anyway, after stopping in at anthropologie and crate & barrel, I went into a little maternity store. And there I found a new-to-me line of handbags, George, Gina & Lucy. At first I assumed they were diaper bags because most of what they had in store were made of nylon, and pretty big in size. But the sales girl told me that they're regular handbags, and they just happen to work well as diaper bags. I loved them! I came home and looked up the company. They have quite the selection - nylon, leather, tons of color options, and everything from coin purses to luggage. I really like the big hardware they use, which is different for me, but I just love the look and feel. Here are a couple of my favorite styles.

Molecule 7, and Pour la Nana - both in my favorite color option, Crater Gray. But this last one is the bag that initially pulled me in, Anything Goes. It comes with a shoulder strap as well. Now which color? The gray, Steel Water, or Mustard on the Rocks...

lace 'em up

2010-09-07T12:34:00.000-07:00

Just some boots and shoes I've been eyeing.

1. as seen on my fab friend's blog, never without
2-3. anthropologie
4-5. ruche
6. fossil

let's go bento!

2010-09-02T12:22:00.000-07:00

If you frequent the same blogs I do, then you've already seen this earlier in the week. Design Mom posted about this website, Another Lunch. It's fabulous! I've spent a good couple hours perusing the site, clicking on links, reading tips, and writing down ideas. There are tons of pictures of bento-style lunches for kids and a million tips to start making your own bento lunches. I'm all over it. I've invested in the Easy Lunchboxes, as well as some mini cutters and fruit leather. Mine will definitely not be as elaborate as ones pictured, but I can't wait to hear how my new lunches go over with my 1st grader!

lunch!

2010-08-30T17:33:00.000-07:00

I'm diggin' these lunch bags from fluf. They're kid-oriented, but not overdone like so many can be. Plus they're completely washable, with a removable waterproof liner. I like the "lunch" version for myself, and the robot or letter ones for the kiddies.

new favorite

2010-08-23T08:45:00.000-07:00

my new favorite outfit from anthro. loving all their wool looks. I'm so ready for fall clothing, even the maternity kind.

glass links

2010-08-18T13:40:00.000-07:00

I hate the chandelier in our kitchen/dining room. It's just one that the builders installed - ugly, off center, and hangs crooked. Yes, I realize I could actually fix those last 2 things, but because it's ugly and I don't want to keep it, I never will. So I always keep a look out for a new chandelier. And then I saw this, and I love it. If it ever goes on sale, I'm snatching it up in a minute.

Project Week: #4 ~ freezer paper stenciling

2010-08-12T10:47:00.000-07:00

Have you been to the MADE blog? If not, I suggest you do so! It's a sewing and craft blog by a lady named Dana, and she comes up with the coolest things. For this next project I'm featuring, I used her freezer paper stencil instructions, which can be found on her tutorials page.
I don't know why I haven't tried this before, because it's so simple! Especially with the tips and pictures from the tutorial.
When my husband and I found out we were having another baby, I made some matching shirts for our other 2 kids as a way to announce it to family members. It took a little figuring, but the shirts worked!

I also made this necklace shirt for my daughter after seeing some similar ones on etsy. I used the freezer paper for the bow necklace, then q-tips and a paintbrush for the others.
So go look at MADE's instructions, and stencil something of your own!

Project Week: #3 ~ mini blind to roman shade

2010-08-11T08:58:00.000-07:00

I needed something quick, cheap, and easy for our upstairs playroom windows. It gets all that hot afternoon sun, and really heats up. Since I didn't want to do a full curtain, when I came across this tutorial on little green notebook, I knew it would perfect.
I took some cheap-o mini blinds, found some discount fabric at JoAnn's, and made roman shades in only a couple hours! It's a really easy tutorial to follow, and I have plans to make some more of these for other rooms in our house.
As a side note, this was the first time I had used the fabric glue, fabritac, and now I can't live without it! I use this stuff for everything.

I just took these pictures this morning, and noticed I need to re-glue one of the slats, it's a little droopy there.

Close-up of the pattern

Project Week: #2 ~ seven minute scarf

2010-08-09T21:13:00.000-07:00

The infinity scarf, the eternity scarf, the circle scarf...whatever you want to call it. It's the seven minute scarf to me. Technically I didn't make this from an online tutorial, but I've found plenty of the same thing. While out shopping, I saw a girl wearing a simple, necklace-length circle scarf, thought of all the extra jersey fabric I had at home, and came up with this.

Here are 3 tutorials for something similar, this first one being the closest to what I made.
funky o scarves on meet virginia
a no-sew circle scarf made from a large t-shirt
cotton infinity scarf on homemade mamas

And here's how I did mine.
Take a 20" x 30" piece of jersey. (If you don't have a stash at home, you can buy just 3/4 yard and cut it down a little)
Fold it in half width-wise, right side in. You should have a 10" x 30" tube that looks inside out.
Sew down the long side with a 1/4" seam, then turn right side out.
Tuck one short end about 1/2" into the other, and sew it into place. Don't worry if it's messy, no one will ever see it because of the fullness of the scarf. It's at the back of your neck anyway. Here's how my seam looks.

it looks like I turned under the edge, but it's actually just the jersey curling under

Put it over your head, and that's it! Because jersey doesn't fray, you don't have to worry about hemming the raw edge. I also made my daughter a matching one, using the same method with a 15" x 25" rectangle. Have fun!

Project Week: #1 ~ the backpack

2010-08-09T07:09:00.000-07:00

Here's the beginning of Project Week on Care's Finds! I'm featuring projects that I've recently made from some great free patterns/tutorials online. There's so much out there in the world of sewing - do you know how often I've turned to youtube to learn simple techniques? Suffice it to say, a lot, and it's fabulous. There are so many great sewing blogs with perfect beginner projects to get you going. And then you can keep going with the more difficult ones. So anyway, here's day #1.

Remember this awesome fabric? Well, I did indeed make it into a backpack as intended. (giving myself a high-five right now)
I eventually found a free pattern for a toddler backpack here, after going on a trek through about 5 different mommy/sewing blogs. She gives great instructions and pictures to go along. I altered the pattern quite a bit after giving it a look. I basically just ended up using the back pattern piece and straps for sizing. It has a foldover top, but I wanted to include a zipper closure. I also added padding to the straps for a little more thickness, and put pull straps at the bottom. My favorite part: that my daughter absolutely loves it!
The most important thing you can do when making this is to use a good, heavyweight interfacing (I used pellon's fusible decor bond). That way it doesn't fold up on itself too easily. As it is, I've noticed the corners get crushed in as my daughter runs around the house with it.
This took less than half a yard, and I think I'll be making another one just a bit bigger so it will fit papers to be brought home from preschool in the future. Luckily I have enough of the fabric to do another!
Here's a few photos of the happy little girl wearing her beloved new backpack.

if you're looking for something similar and want full instructions, another backpack pattern is available to buy here.

obi apron

2010-08-06T11:24:00.000-07:00

Look at this great free apron pattern from Burda. Wouldn't it make a cute skirt?.....with a little more coverage in the back of course! I'm thinking this will be my first project for myself after the baby comes. A nice high-waisted skirt that I can cinch up as tight as possible to cover that post-baby bump!

Next week is a little slower for me, so I'm going to try and post everyday with some little project from the web that I've been sewing/working on. Let's call it Project Week!

puj

2010-08-05T10:42:00.000-07:00

I love these puj tubs! It seems to be more convenient than those foam things meant for sink baths, or tub baths. Plus, it folds up flat - I love space-saving baby gear.

cute hedgehogs

2010-07-23T10:10:00.000-07:00

I just indulged myself and bought this fabric, Michael Miller's Hedgehog Meadow. I couldn't resist, it's just too cute and I love the colors. It's going to be made into a little backpack for Addie, like this one.

more liberty

2010-07-14T08:14:00.000-07:00

This is a big "yes, please!" But can you come down in price, like half?

mia, and some news

2010-07-06T12:25:00.000-07:00

I know I've been gone for awhile. Lots of family things going on - too much on my mind for blogging I guess. Plus, it's summer! And our days at the Matthews' house have been chock full of activities already. I have a million things bookmarked though, ready to post.
First on the list is this messenger bag...that I'm pretty sure I need. My husband would probably wonder what on earth I would use another tote bag for. But I have a specific use for this one. We're expecting our third child (!) and I want it to use as a diaper bag. Perfect size and pattern, and a long strap is always a plus. And it's only $39!
from the etsy shop ikabags, in Paris

t shirt rug

2010-06-17T08:21:00.000-07:00

What a fun, soft rug! (directions on the xo elle blog) Fashioned after flokati rugs, it's made with t-shirt strips and latch hook canvas. Yet another project to put in my to-do folder. Even though it's a time consuming project, it's budget conscious, and the result would be totally satisfying. I like that she chose grey, and made it nice and full for her baby.

Found via the modern hive

yogurt 101

2010-06-16T12:21:00.000-07:00

I've decided to start making my own yogurt. My kids love yogurt, and I'm tired of all the sugary stuff or paying extra for the organic stuff. It seems to be relatively easy - I'll let you know if I can actually pull it off. While researching different techniques, I came across Fix Me a Snack, and her Yogurt 101 series. There are so many great snack ideas with plain yogurt as the starting point - sweet, savory, desserts, dips, nutty, etc. I'm determined to make a healthy little snack like one of these everyday for my kids (and myself!) from now on.

stack em up

2010-06-15T16:15:00.000-07:00

I like stackable rings and bracelets, always drawn to them in stores or online shops. This set of rings is particularly calling my name. I like the earthy colors.

squeaky clean

2010-06-10T09:47:00.000-07:00

How have I never discovered Neutrogena's transparent facial bar? I know it's been around forever, but just bought it for the first time last week. I'm into couponing, was out of my other facial cleanser, and there was an almost-free deal going with these so I tried them out. And I'm in love. With the smell, and my squeaky clean skin afterward.

i want to go there

2010-06-08T07:34:00.000-07:00

The Swimming Pool is at the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art in Japan, and made by an Argentinian artist. A room within a pool, what an awesome idea! Read more about it here.

bonus to the first person who gets my tv reference post title.

summertime

2010-06-07T07:29:00.000-07:00

Aren't these cupcakes the perfect picture of summer? Strawberry lemonade cupcakes via ISLY. I'm excited to make them.

vintage goodness

2010-06-01T10:52:00.000-07:00

I'm drooling over the vintage fabrics available at Lemon Blooms' etsy shop. I'm always on the lookout for different prints I can use for my vintage scalloped buntings.

flats

2010-05-26T20:03:00.001-07:00

These look so comfy. I think I'd keep them for cute house shoes. Eco-chic ballet flats.

pomegranate perfection

2010-05-25T13:10:00.000-07:00

I am in love with this print! And so many great ways to showcase it at lost bird found. I could take the plates, tote bag, scarf, or the tunic. or all of them. I only wish she sold the fabric as well!

**I just saw on lost bird found's blog that you can get a free pocketbag when you buy a tote bag and enter the code PINIT. Yay!**

winner

2010-05-24T16:44:00.000-07:00

I know I'm a little late with this today, but the winner of the cm crafts giveaway is Kristy of casadelray!

And since you told quite a few people about cm crafts, you get 2 bracelets! Email me and let me know what you'd like.
Thanks for the comment and facebook love to everyone who played!

the 5-minute necklace + update

2010-05-21T06:01:00.000-07:00

I needed a chunky necklace for my outfit last Sunday. And we had to leave for church in 30 mins. This is me on a usual Sunday though, pulling together both me and my daughter's accessories last minute. So anyway, I remembered all of my great-great aunt's jewelry I have stashed away. And this is what I came up with.

I got quite a few compliments, so I thought I'd show you just how easy it was to make, so you can do your own and get some compliments too! Even if you don't have Aunt Gladys' jewels, get some costume jewelry cheapies, or scour goodwill for some hidden gems.

Materials:

Gaudy brooches, earrings, pendants, etc.
Some kind of chain (a ribbon would probably actually work as well)
Ribbon

Take your jewelry and pin/hook them directly to the chain in a grouping to your liking. Put the ribbon through both ends of the chain to connect them, slip it over your head, and tie the ribbon.
That's it! A 5-minute necklace.

update on cm crafts giveaway: you guys are making it too easy for the 4 people that have commented thus far! They have pretty good chances. If telling people is stopping you from entering, by all means, enter anyway. But here's the deal, for those of you who have told someone about cm crafts, you'll win two bracelets. And if you simply leave a comment, you'll win one. How does that sound? Remember, the giveaway closes tonight!

amazing

2010-05-19T07:13:00.000-07:00

Have you seen the Total Shoe Redo series over at Grosgrain? The woman is amazing. She's pretty much reupholstering shoes, and they are turning out so adorable! These are my favorite to date, the Red Ruffle Flats:

batting 100

2010-05-18T12:57:00.001-07:00

Awhile back I wrote about how much I love DiorShow Mascara. But of course it's a little pricey and I only bought it a couple times. Well expensive mascara, you have met your match with Maybelline's Great Lash Big. Virtually the same brush, and still makes you look like you have falsies.
Another trick I've picked up - heat up your eyelash curler with a blowdryer for a few seconds. test on your wrist to make sure it's not too hot. The heat makes those babies perk right up!

cm crafts giveaway: updated!

2010-05-17T06:35:00.000-07:00

I moved cm crafts over to big cartel now. I think I'm going to like it better than etsy, but we'll see. Right now I'm just on the free membership plan, so only one picture per product is allowed, and 5 products total. Hopefully things will get going and I'll upgrade here soon. Anyway, on to the giveaway!

In celebration of my new shop space, I'm giving away one of the Square Braided Bracelets! You choose the color you'd like. And if you want multi-colored or a different length, I can make that happen too! I learned this really cool way to braid, and I've been wearing one of these bracelets ever since. They're meant to wrap around your wrist about 3 times, and I usually stack 2 or 3 together. They remind me of the old friendship bracelets I used to make in middle school. Did you make those with your friends too?

Since I'm trying to spread the word, here's the 1 rule to enter the giveaway: think of 2 people you know that might be interested in something at cm crafts, and tell them about it! When you comment, let me know who you told. That's it!
update! you can still enter even if you don't want to tell anyone about cm crafts. However, if the winning person has told someone, they'll win two bracelets!
I'll close the comments this Friday at 9pm pst.
Good luck!!

come back monday

2010-05-14T18:08:00.000-07:00

I forgot to mention in this morning's post, but check in on Monday for a shop update (I finally got my act together), and a little giveaway to go with!
I'll leave you with a happy image and a ralph waldo emerson quote. Have a great weekend!
print found here

no more fraying

2010-05-14T07:10:00.000-07:00

If you sew, and don't own a serger, this tutorial will change your life. forever. seriously. the french seam via freshly picked.

girl stuff

2010-05-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

My daughter is in a playgroup with her 2 little best friends. After she returns from Jane's house, I hear all month long about "playing hairstyles." Apparently that's what they're busy with almost the entire time at Jane's. I finally saw the beloved hairstyle station - a cute little vanity with all the salon accessories, including pretend scissors. So I've been trying to recreate a hair station at our house. I already had some lightweight stick-on mirrors for the wall, and my husband's making a simple shelf to hang under the mirrors. And I'm trying to fashion some sort of hanging bag that will fit all the accessories. A tool belt type thing, hanging from the shelf or on the wall. And of course I need the supplies themselves. I wanted a wooden set, which has proved to be a challenge in finding. This is the best one I came across in my hour of searching.
Estia wooden cosmetic set

I don't think I'll really use the carrying case, but the rest of it looks fun. Have you seen anything similar in a toy store or boutique? I'd like to find some other options!

throw a party

2010-05-12T08:05:00.000-07:00

with some fabulously designed invitations, all ready for you to customize. Pick your favorite, download, fill in your text, print, deliver. There are so many great choices, I had a hard time deciding which templates to put up here.

9 by design

2010-05-11T09:37:00.000-07:00

I've been enjoying the first few weeks of 9 by design on Bravo. It's fun to see behind the scenes, and how they really put their designs together.

It airs tonight, 10pm. You can also watch full episodes online at Bravo.
Sixx Design website here.

mother's week

2010-05-03T13:16:00.001-07:00

Have you seen the fabulous mother's day roundup on luvinthemommyhood? Lots of cute and fun stuff to make for mom, with things that kids can do too. You still have a week left to figure something out!

prints

2010-04-29T19:34:00.000-07:00

diggin this outfit that arrived in my inbox a couple days ago. Another lovely by anthropologie. I really want to find a polka dot dress or skirt to wear with my own floral sweater. Seen any affordable versions out there?

lonny

2010-04-20T11:22:00.000-07:00

I'm in love with the online magazine Lonny. So easy to just flip through pages at the computer, click on products and go directly to the link! And they're already on Issue 4 - so go check it out before you get too far behind. My favorite thing in the latest issue is the little girl's playroom on pages 112-113. I want the rug shown there.

antique beauties

2010-04-12T07:32:00.000-07:00

I love these 2 pieces in my house. The first is my grandma's old sewing machine that I use as an entry table. I love that it has drawers - very useful for housing the things I tend to grab last minute before leaving the house. The sewing machine still works, and I have the original manual and extra parts for it as well! The only unfortunate thing is that the kids finally discovered the treadle actually moves. (it's not supposed to be pushed when the machine is all closed up)

The second piece is an antique printer's drawer that I turned into my thread storage/display. I like being able to have them right at hand, plus seeing all the pretty colors together makes me smile. Especially since my sewing area is in our bedroom, and I'm looking at that wall a lot. Besides the thread I use, I put some old wooden spools in there for decoration. Almost all the compartments are filled up now, and I'm always switching up the color scheme.

music cabinet

2010-04-06T10:05:00.000-07:00

If any of you that live in my area happen to be antiquing, and spy an old smallish size music cabinet...call me immediately! Something like this would be nice:
And one more requirement...I would like it for a decent price. I know they tend to be pretty pricey, but somebody can put one on sale just for me! I'm not even planning on using it to hold my music, but I want it as a nightstand. I found a perfect one while up in Seattle a couple weeks ago - six skinny drawers, great size and shape, and in good condition. Alas, it was $250. One day I'll find one that will work.

sammy wraps

2010-04-05T21:52:00.000-07:00

The perfect stylish solution for reusable sandwich bags. cuz I know you were looking for just that, right?

I'll take one each of the lace pattern and blue flowers.

spring flowers

2010-04-02T09:10:00.000-07:00

The ranunculus are here! It's my favorite flower. Here are the colors I picked this year, ready to be planted in front porch pots.

girl scout goodness

2010-04-01T14:08:00.000-07:00

Did you know you can make your own girl scout cookies?! Right here, three different kinds. I personally like Samoas the best, and only bought one box this year. That was a mistake, they were gone in .5 seconds. Mostly because of yours truly here. So I'm going to try out the "Fijis" sometime soon to get my fix.

fancy

2010-03-30T10:50:00.000-07:00

Dress up your chair in the blink of an eye with these cute pillows!

rock-a-bye

2010-03-29T10:12:00.000-07:00

a stylish rocking chair that looks pretty comfy. by ron arad.

flower power

2010-03-22T16:52:00.000-07:00

I'm seeing a lot of flower post earrings out there, and I'm liking it. They give out a kind of vintage vibe. After I saw one of my friends wearing a cute pair yesterday, I decided to to a little post on them. {I didn't realize that was a pun until after I typed it out}
I usually wear dangly type earring, but currently my lobes are donning these 2 babies. Both from Nordstrom BP section, and only about $5!

I also found some great ones online, via urban outfitters, forever 21, and anthro. But if you really want to go out and grab a cute cheap pair, they have plenty at Nordstrom in plenty of colors.

And look at these cute pairs over at Grosgrain, that she made from some buttons and paint! I think I'm going to have to expand my color palette from yellow and cream!

vale

2010-03-16T07:05:00.000-07:00

Lovely, lovely goodies available at Vale Jewelry. These 2 rings are what grabbed me the most. I love a big, pretty ring.

the modern hive

2010-03-15T06:54:00.000-07:00

I love this new-to-me blog, The Modern Hive. As she says on her blog, she's a graphic designer, loves finding new uses for old things, and is a mom to 6 kids. My favorite thing I've found is her series of mini prints available for free download. If you're a member of the same church as I am, you'll definitely recognize some of the phrases. But even if you're not, they all have a beautiful message that could be included in any home. I'm in the process of printing out the family proclamation. She designed a modern looking version of it, and I must have it hanging in my hallway!

airplants

2010-03-12T11:53:00.001-08:00

Have you heard of airplants? I hadn't until a few weeks ago. You can find them here at Pigeon Toe Ceramics. From what I gather you can just sit them out anywhere, either in a pot or by themselves, no dirt required. You soak them every couple weeks and that's it! These three are my favorites.

I think this one looks like some kind of little creature crawling across the table

felt shades

2010-03-09T10:51:00.000-08:00

I think these shades from anthropologie would create such a soft, pretty light. But don't you think you could figure out how to make these? Maybe it's the cheap side of me, but felt isn't that expensive, even the 100% wool kind. And I think you could figure out how to manipulate it into something that looks quite similar to these two, for less than $150 a pop {on sale}. I might try a mini version of that ivory one and see how it goes.

one charming party

2010-03-05T08:32:00.000-08:00

Have you seen this school themed baby shower from One Charming Party? Adorable! Love all the details. And there are some free downloads for you to do your own.

a little decorating

2010-03-03T19:25:00.000-08:00

I just finished decorating my guest bath, (which you can view in its' entirety here), and have had a few people ask where I bought things/how I did it. So here's a little bathroom round-up. {I promise, not as disgusting as that just sounded!}
After reading this post on the Little Green Notebook, I decided to go for some stenciling! I chose a pattern at Whitewall Co, "Trilian Way," then picked out a dark plum paint color. The stencil is bigger than I thought it would be, which I'm glad about, and I love the openness of the pattern.

Also from the Little Green Notebook are directions on how to make a pelmet. Very easy, and makes such a big difference for the window I was having a hard time deciding what to do with. I chose the plum for the main fabric part, and outlined it with gray ribbon.
I guess those are the main parts of the bath, besides the gray vases I've found at random places, sitting on top of the Hattan Side Table from Ikea.

you heard it here last

2010-03-02T07:45:00.000-08:00

Less than two weeks until the Liberty of London line comes to Target! I've been so excited! I have been drooling over liberty fabrics for years now. If I could ever find some for less than $35/yard, I have quite a few projects in mind. Skirts, shirts, pillows, curtains......
Who knows if I'll end up buying anything, but maybe a pillow or two wouldn't hurt. Or a tie for the hubs. And that bike would be fantastic too! Check it out here.

if only

2010-03-01T07:29:00.000-08:00

I was this creative. An entire dress made from selvages...awesome.

these are a few of my favorite things

2010-02-25T11:04:00.001-08:00

I did another favorites party, this time with a new group of friends! The theme was based on the song "These Are a Few of My Favorite Things." The colors were mostly sage-y green and pink, coming from the fabric I had on hand with which I made the invitations.I'm not the best photographer...in fact I'm not even that good, so bear with my photos.

I got the idea to hang phrases from the song on the blog katie did, here. I just freehanded the letters, which gave a cute, quirky quality to the words. And almost a week later they're still up, they've been too fun!

yes, I did notice that crooked "t" in mittens and fixed it before the festivities!

The food was really easy since the song contains plenty of favorite foods! I bought "crisp apple strudel" from a local bakery, made "girls in white dresses with blue satin sashes" sugar cookies, filled handmade "brown paper packages tied up with string" with raspberry truffles, and topped simple brownies with "raindrops on {radish} roses." I made my favorite go-to party drink, cucumber limeade (a concoction made up by my good friend's husband), and had mismatched glasses & mugs to drink from. I don't own 12 of any one type of glass, so that was my solution!

I set it up a little differently than the parties I have planned with Kari & Alicia in Salem. {Head on over to my family blog to see what those were like.} So here, everyone picked a favorite item and brought 5 of them. I had everyone write their name on 5 slips of paper, then we each drew out 5 names. (that's a lot of 5's I just spit out) I started first and told why my item was a favorite, then gave it out to those who had drew my name. There were 11 ladies total, and we went around the room like that. So each person got to take home 5 new favorites! And we learned a little about each other along the way. Do you think I could remember to take pictures of everyone's favorites displayed on the table, or anyone at the party for that matter?! I was having too much fun chatting I guess! But the favorites ranged from kitchen gadgets {mine was a flexicado, as seen below}, to books, things to wear, and beauty supplies. I wish I could have invited more people, I had about a dozen more I wanted to invite, but my house only holds so many!

I've said this before, and I'll say it again: do this with your friends!! As a hostess, you don't have to worry about party favors to send guests home with, they're already taking things home. It is always so much fun, and everyone has a great time!

plush alphabet magnets

2010-02-22T13:05:00.001-08:00

Just found what I'm going to make with all my fabric scraps. I have way too many that need to be used up, and this is perfect!

got milk?

2010-02-19T13:43:00.000-08:00

I got this little present from my mom for my birthday. Whenever we go antiquing together, I always keep an eye out for a whole set of glass milk jars. I could never find it, but she surprised me with one! All in their own metal carrying case and everything. Seeing them filled with fresh flowers on my table makes me happy.

spotted

2010-02-18T21:28:00.001-08:00

I was in anthropologie last month and saw this on a bookshelf. It caught my eye because I know the author, Chris Marley, and immediately recognized his work. His family and my husband's family go way back, and before we moved from Salem our sons were good friends.
He creates insect artwork - framed bugs that are interesting in shape and color. He says on his website that his fascination with insects was inspired by a desperation to avoid them. Wouldn't it be cool if we could all face our fears head on like that!
Check it all out here.

cookie cutters

2010-02-08T19:19:00.000-08:00

This is the place if you're in need of a particular cookie cutter shape. They have everything imaginable. I want to make sugar cookies for a few different parties that are coming up, and couldn't find anything in stores that suited my fancy. I could have gone crazy with all the options at the cookie cutter shop, and I did end up with four shapes that I couldn't resist. Here are a few of my favorites from the site.

piano - besides my family, it's my life
spool of thread - this is one I bought just for fun!
umbrella - because I live in OR
key - wouldn't it be cute to make these for a housewarming gift?!
tooth - for the first time your child loses a tooth
whale - just a cute animal shape, fun for a baby shower maybe

babybel

2010-02-05T13:06:00.000-08:00

I love cheese, and these are my latest cheese addiction. I have {at least} one a day. always the original flavor.

daily list

2010-01-28T09:17:00.001-08:00

Only two things to accomplish in a day! {or two things you were supposed to accomplish yesterday} I can do that.

Found here

red onions

2010-01-26T13:47:00.000-08:00

This is a great salad dressing recipe. Good mix of tart and sweet.