I'm More Than "Just Mom"!

A New Use for an Old Dress

2012-02-04T21:26:00.002-06:00

Since I am going to turn my wedding dress into Christening gowns for future grandbabies, I wanted to do something with it and my daughter. Someone mentioned having her take photos in it would be cute - so we did. It was a blast! And, I have my mom's wedding dress (she has passed from brain cancer), so we took some photos in her dress, too! It was so much fun, and I love the photos. I printed them out to frame and hang in our home.

First, my favorite:

My dress:

My mom's Dress:

Want to win a FREE item?

2011-09-20T13:25:00.002-05:00

Hi all! I'm looking to increase my Facebook fans so that I can host daily deals and games for free items - some fun things I'd like to start doing! For the next week, the top 5 people who refer fans will receive a free gift from Prose Boutique! I've got five great surprises sitting here ready to mail out!
My Facebook is www.facebook.com/ProseBoutiqueFashion. Don't forget to have your fans/friends/family mention that you sent them!!

Allie
http://www.proseboutique.etsy.com/
@ProseBoutique on Twitter
proseboutique@yahoo.com

Give the Gift of Smiles with Me ;)

2011-09-16T10:51:00.004-05:00

I remember growing up, around October or November I'd come home to bags filled with toys that we'd be donating to the local shelter. I loved my mom for this. She didn't believe children should be without smiles on Christmas Day. And it taught me the value of giving when you are so blessed to have so much, and so now, in her honor, I teach my kids the same lesson.

For the last few years the family has collected gifts for local shelters, mainly the women's and children's shelter here in town. I try and find the clearance sales so I can get more, and this year I was able to find $1304 worth of toys for about $400 (you can read about it here) so I was pretty excited because hopefully the kids will be able to have a couple things instead of just one.

In addition, last year, my wonderful department at work pulled together and donated nearly 40 pairs of brand new pajamas, ranging in size from infant to adult. It was so amazing, and I felt so honored to work with such great people who would be willing to participate in my cause. At work we also do (separate from the above activities) food drives throughout the year, as well as serve meals at the shelter, to really be involved.

I think it's important for my kids to understand how blessed they are, and how much we truly have. They get pretty excited about picking things out, and throughout the year will find something and ask if we can put it in the bins for the kids at Christmas. It makes me so proud to see what big hearts they have. It makes me feel like my mom is here with us.

This year, I've decided I'm going to tack on something additional. For every item purchased now through December 20, I will make an item and donate it to the shelters in little goodie bags. (So if you purchase two items, I will also make an additional two items for donation). I donated some hairbows last Christmas with the toys, and the woman said they went over really well because the girls can't afford those things from the store normally. I have some items to donate, but will also make additional ones for each item purchased. I am also going to make some cuffs and other boy-ish things for the boys at the shelters.

If you'd like to help, I'd love you to be a part of it! You can help by donating something (I can send you the mailing address) or by purchasing at www.proseboutique.etsy.com and I will add an item to the collection.

Thanks for supporting us and all we do!

Allie

60% off - Get ready for the holidays!

2011-09-14T08:54:00.001-05:00

Prose Boutique is 60% off through Thursday night, with coupon code FACEBOOK, to move out the current inventory and make room for some new items! Plus, shipping has been reduced on most items, and more have been added to the clearance section!

I am so grateful to all my Facebook fans, customers, blog readers ;) I'm over 200 Facebook fans, and have made 61 sales. Not to shabby for a girl who just wanted to own her own store someday ;) Thanks for all of your support!

Here are some of the items you'll find at Prose Boutique:

Have a great week everyone!

Every Day's a Good Day When You Have Friends Like Mine

2011-09-06T23:38:00.001-05:00

There's so many times in my life where I sit and dwell on the negative because something broke in the house or something didn't go my way at work. I don't like that I do it, but I do. But it's days like today - and friends like Jake - that remind me time after time to refocus those thoughts on all the great things I do have. Especially the people I have in my life.

I'm not always good at expressing feelings verbally, but I like writing them down. If you know me, you know that much. I probably don't tell you face to face what you mean to me, but if I can write it down, I will. So I've decided to spend a few blog posts over the next year talking about the great people in my life, and giving them some kudos because they deserve it ;)

Let me tell you a little about Jake. I've known him about 10 years. He was a friend of a friend, and I can't tell you exactly how, but that summer of 2001, we all just sort of started hanging out together. It's one of those great mysteries of life, but somehow, all of us ended up in this little group we affectionately called the Goof Troop.

There was Patty, Jose, Me, Jaime, Jake, Tim, Chris (aka Elvis) and a few others. Over the years, some newbies came and others left, and we built what I now call my second family.

We did everything and went everywhere together. Hanging out, cooking out, playing cards; holiday parties, swimming. They were my friends when I needed friends most, having just gotten out of a really bad relationship. They supplied jokes and hugs, loved me despite my insecurities, and even when we got on each other's nerves, for the first time I really had this structure where yes, we may be upset with each other, but no, they weren't going to walk away and let me fend for myself. They were there to stay, and that was a feeling that made this group more than just friends. (The story continues below, but these pictures should amuse you on your scroll down. Vintage Allie, lol).

I've already talked many times about Patty, but today, I want to tell you a little bit about my friend Jake. Jake is one of our best friends (my husband and I). He is, without a doubt, a person that I could call if I needed something and he'd be there to help in seconds without hesitation. I know that I can count on him if we ever need it. He was - aside from our immediate family - the first visitor to show up within an hour of each of my kids being born, to meet them and hold them. I'll never, ever forget that. Here he is, holding this newborn like he's a pro, when most guys our age were backing away and pretending not to notice those contagious babies, lol. And they still hug and crawl all over him, because they adore Uncle Jake!

He's there at every birthday, holiday and weekend cookout. He's polite, sweet and has one of the biggest hearts I've ever encountered. He makes us laugh, and we spend alot of time with him because he just makes every time you're with him fun.

I admire his willpower and strength, because over a year ago, he started a journey to be more healthy, and he has kept at it, losing over 100 pounds. I struggle to lose 10! He's amazing, and he's really worked hard, and keeps tacking on more fun activities like MMA and such to keep his workouts different. I really, really admire him for how hard he's worked.

And then there's his big heart, like how he gives me thank you cards on occasion. Actual paper cards, in an envelope, with handwriting - something we don't do alot of today! Today, I printed out a picture for him of he and Jaime at the Pearl Jam concert. He came back later with a thank you card, and a gift to help send me to San Diego to see our other friend, Patty, when she has her baby, because he knew I was worried about finances. (I'm still not taking your gift Jake, but seriously, I will totally bask in the sweetness of having you as a friend!) I have cried like five times tonight just thinking about how great of a friend I have. The part that touches my heart is just the thought behind it all - that he knows how much I miss my friend.

It's moments like these - and people like Jake - that I have in my life that constantly remind me that yes, the dryer might be broken and yes there may be a leak, but those are such small things when, at the end of the day, I have this group of friends that so many people will spend their whole lives only wishing they had. My mom had her group of 8 girlfriends, known as the Breakfast Club for their Friday morning breakfast ritual, that I used to hope I'd have a group like someday. I do, but mine just includes a few really great guys, too. And in the end, it won't be the dryers or repairs or cars or houses or any of that material stuff that I remember and that I love - it's the friends I have like Jake, Patty, Jose, Joel and so many others that I'll be laughing with and sipping margaritas with, and loving every second of their company. That's what life is made of - the people and the joy they bring to your hearts.

If you need a friend, I can point you in the right direction ;)

Love ya Jake!!

Giveaway Winner - thanks for your support!

2011-09-06T16:08:00.001-05:00

What an amazing ride starting Prose Boutique has been. From starting our Facebook page, to having fans and customers share photos of my items in use, it has been amazing to know that out there in the world, people are wearing something I've made. It gives me an unbelievable sense of accomplishment.

And this week, not only am I up to 57 sales, but I have over 200 Facebook fans, with a lot of the credit thanks to Flapper Fashions, Izzy B Designs, and Juliana Jade. And most importantly, I'd like to thank those who are following me via Facebook by having a little giveaway to celebrate having 200+ fans!

I used a random number generator to pick a winner. That winner is #34, Brittnee Cosme! So Brittnee, I'm awarding you a $15 certificate to use as you please in the shop! Contact me on Facebook for the code for your prize. If I haven't heard from Brittnee by Friday, I will pick a new winner.

Again, thank you to everyone who has supported me since opening the boutique in March. I love, love, love creating items, and it is a privilege to have people interested in my items. I appreciate you all!

Allie

Back to School...Sending my first baby to Kindergarten

2011-08-25T12:32:00.001-05:00

This week, my oldest started kindergarten. Not just kindergarten, but all day kindergarten. Big, scary, tons of kids all around kindergarten.

Okay, maybe that last one is just an exaggeration of my mind. But that's how I felt dropping him off. I had in my head that there would be tears (both of us), hugs (both of us), not wanting to let go (both of us). We got up extra early, got the uniform on (and did he look handsome!), got his backpack together with all his school supplies...and drove over to school.

I was holding it together. We walked to the drop-off point, introduced him again to his teacher who was telling all the boys and girls how much fun they were going to have, walked him to line up with the other kids, and then stood back and stared for about 10 minutes. I looked at my boy, standing there amongst the 16 kids in his class. Some of them were bigger, some smaller. There were alot of girls, which seemed to be his main concern (they have cooties, you know). And then the teacher looked at all the kids and said, "Okay, wave bye to mom and dad, and let's head inside!"

My son, smiling ear to ear, waved at us for a millisecond, and then was focused happily on heading into the building. And I, standing there amongst the parents, began crying. Partly because even though he's only five, it feels like just yesterday he was this tiny bundle that fit perfectly packaged into the crook of my arm, and needed me for everything; and partly because I wished my mom could be there with us to see this day.

How did he get so big, so fast? Every day, he seems to be another year older. This all-day school thing isn't a huge change for him, since he's been in daycare all day everyday since he was three months old. And here he was, in his polo and dress pants, a Super Mario Brothers backpack outweighing him with all it's school supply contents, standing tall and marching into a brand new chapter in his life, seemingly without a care in the world.

I pulled it together, and when we picked him up at the end of his day, he was all smiles and stories! He met some friends, they ate a snack, he colored. He loved it! Day 2, day 3, and now day 4 have come and gone, and not a sign of "needing mommy." I'm torn between a broken heart and being so proud of him for being such a brave little boy!

I'm sure it's not the only time I'll cry on their first day of school. I cry at commercials, truth be told! And as the years pass, they will probably blur together and every year will be like the next. But I know for a fact that years from now, I will still remember watching him wave and walk in that building, and be reminded of how much love one heart can hold for one little boy.

Hugging his sister goodbye at her daycare:

Proud Daddy:

Proud mommy:

Revitalized Dollhouse: $1.00...My daughter laughing for hours: Priceless!

2011-08-10T21:04:00.000-05:00

Our friend (and caretaker of my children during work hours!) gave us a dollhouse. It's a Fisher Price little people dollhouse from nearly 20 years ago - one that was her daughter's (as a side note, her daughter is like a sister to me!)

Some of the stickers had fallen off, but it was still in great shape. After a good scrubbing, as it had been in storage, most of the rest of the stickers came off. I thought, hmmmmm, can't afford to remodel my own house, but I think this Fisher Price family can have a little redo ;)

$1.00 in scrapbook papers, some modpodge, scissors, and paint, and the house is as good as new! My little one loved helping pick out what paper went where. Next up, I'm going to make some felt curtains and hot glue them on.

Thanks Cathy! You rock ;)

Here is the before:

And the after (P.S. I am not done painting - I put a base coat on the kitchen appliances and the windows, but she was too excited and wanted to play with it, so second coat will happen another day).

Happy Thursday all!

For my friend Amy...I understand ;)

2011-08-10T20:18:00.001-05:00

I have a good friend named Amy, whom I met through an online brain cancer caregivers support group when our moms were sick. Though we were states apart and talked via phone and computer, we became fast friends, unfortunately due to the fact that we both acutely understood what the other was going through.

While I wouldn't wish the experience on anyone, having someone who understood as much as she did was part of what saved my life that year. Friends, family - they all try to understand, and we love them for it. But in each other, we found that missing link of losing our mother before we were married, had kids, etc. - and that allowed us to keep breathing and carry on with life. The simple sharing of a certain sadness.

I got married without my mother, so in turn, I understand what she is going through, preparing for her wedding next year without her mother’s help. It is a heartbreaking thing to do. While all your friends are getting married and preparing with their mothers; picking out their dresses and planning the seating chart, picking out flowers and getting ready that day; she, like me, will put a smile on her face and make the best of it (because it is a wonderful, wonderful occasion, and we are truly blessed and happy to have found someone to love!), but behind every smile will be that twinge of sadness, reminding us that we don’t have our moms there with us.

We both have had amazing family and friends to help with the preparations and the day – and we are both beyond grateful for that. Yet all the friends and family in the world cannot make up for that small percentage of us that, regardless of all the great people we do have, misses having our moms there.

When it came time for my wedding, I wondered what my mom would have said to me that day, what she would have wished for me. The happiness and good times are obvious, but I wondered what other wisdom she’d impart. Now that I have children of my own, I often think about what I want for them in life. I think about my own daughter’s wedding someday, and what I’d want her to know if, for some reason, I wasn’t there like my own mom.

Well Amy, I'm going to give to you this letter, which I wrote and tucked away for my own daughter, worried that maybe someday I won't be there for her wedding - because I know Carolyn would tell you the exact same things. Maybe this is her way of telling you.

First and foremost, you look beautiful. I might not be there physically to see it, but I know from the many minutes, hours, days I spent staring at you and absorbing every freckle and eyelash. You were radiant the moment I held you in my arms for the first time, and that's never changed. I can only imagine that today, on your wedding day, all dolled up for the hundreds of people out there waiting for you (and one very special one) that you are the most beautiful woman to ever walk the earth. I'm sure your glow is doubled by the fact that you have found someone who loves you so much.

On your wedding day, and every day from here on out, I wish for you to have a life filled with happiness. A daughter brings to life a part of your heart that lies hidden away until that little princess is laid in our arms. The part that dreams of pink and ballet classes, sports games and homework help. A little girl who is born and needs us so much, who then grows to a woman that, while becoming adult and responsible, still needs us – and even though we might be eager for you to be out on your own someday, the same part of our heart that lit up when you cried for us as babies lights up again each time you ask us a question as an adult. The happiness that a daughter brings to every inch of our souls is exactly what I wish for you – a feeling of happiness and contentment from the top of your head to the tips of your toes.

I wish for you to have courage and strength, because you’ll need it in marriage. It’s not a fairytale or a walk in the park. At times it’s a never-ending parade of fun, and at times it is that job you wanted to quit because you only wanted to punch your coworker right in the nose. But you’ve been through hard times, and you’ve seen them through, which is why you are who you are today – a strong, smart, intelligent woman who doesn’t settle. Always keep in mind compromise, and keep the fire in your heart, and learn to take and give and play fair. It won’t be easy, but it is well worth it to wake up each day with the person you love.

I wish for your heart to let go of the sadness or regret from your past, and open up to new experiences. It won’t be easy, that’s for sure, but the past is behind you, and what lies ahead are some pretty great things. You’ll be amazed at all you can overcome in life if you continue putting your mind to it. Don’t let the past drag you down, and don’t let it keep you sad. We might not have had all the times we wanted to have together, but the truth is that I am always, always with you, because you came from me, and you are a part of me. Your smile is my smile, your adventures are mine. You are a part of me that keeps on living, keeps on moving, and keeps on loving. And someday, when you stare into the eyes of your own children, they are a part of me too, because they came from you. People are always alive, as long as you remember them.

I wish for you smiles and tears, because without either, you wouldn't understand and appreciate the other as much. Life is filled with good times and bad times, but you'll survive them all and become a better person. Celebrate the good, let the bad slide, and smile every morning like it's the best day of your life.

If a problem isn't going to matter in 10 years, it's not worth worrying about today. Sage advice, and very true. No sense in working yourself up or worrying if, in the grand scheme of things, this is just a blip on the radar.

Dance every opportunity you have. In the car, in the kitchen, while you're washing clothes. It brings a smile to your face instantly, and will make every day a better one.

And finally, enjoy your wedding day. The world keeps turning, and people come and go, but we're never far. You might be looking for a sign or a symbol that I'm here, but all you need to do is look in the mirror - as long as you see your beautiful face smiling back, you'll know I'm standing behind you, my arm around your back and my cheek resting against yours.

Well, except tonight after the reception. I'll totally leave you alone for that ;)

Happy wedding day. I love you forever and forever and for always. Nothing could ever change that.
Love,
Mom

In the digital day and age...I still love a good, paperback book...even if I have to read it with glasses.

2011-08-08T22:45:00.000-05:00

Now, don't get me wrong. I love my iPad. It allows me to do so much from anywhere I'm at. It saves my sanity on trips to the store or in the car, when I can't take the "Are you almost done yet?" or "Are we there yet?" anymore. I love downloading books to it for it's slim storage and functional convnience.

But I realized last night, as I finished reading an amazing book called "The Middle Place" by Kelly Corrigan, that I love a good, paperback book. They have a certain smell, a certain feel, that provides perhaps some memories of growing up. Settling into a bubble bath with book in hand to read chapter upon chapter, imagining the characters and their homes, the stories coming to life in my head. I don't just read books, I seem to really feel them and see them, like a movie playing over the course of a few nights.

I was a bookworm my whole life, up until about 2005. My mom died that year, I had a baby, and well, free time for reading went out the window. In fact, the only books I read were books on caring for babies, or books for babies. And honestly - that wasn't bad. Nothing beats the look on your little one's face when you're changing your voice for the characters in the book, and they are taking in not just the story, but the time you are relishing upon them. What I did read was anything and everything else I could get my hands on that wouldn't take up immense amounts of time - such as magazines, mailers, etc. Lame, but reading all the same.

By the time I was back to having any spare time to read books, about 2008, I found that I couldn't read them anymore. Don't laugh - I could read the words and such, but I mean I couldn't focus. I would find I read a whole chapter and didn't remember a single thing I read. My mind was going a thousand miles a minute, focusing on everything else but the story in front of me. The grocery list, what I would do when I woke up, what work needed to be done, if the baby's diaper was changed. Quite honestly, it made me stress a little bit, because I thought perhaps my love of reading had dissapated along with the formerly single, childless me. I wanted to sit there and get through a book and know what I had read, and after trying different types of books thinking perhaps I just wasn't into the material, I found that it didn't matter what the material was - I simply couldn't focus intently on any lengthy, written material.

As a side note, I was also severely dissapointed again that year when I realized I couldn't play softball anymore. I loved playing on a co-ed league, but I just couldn't catch the ball anymore and wasn't a great hitter. Sigh. I figured I was getting old!

Fast forward to October 2010. After ~~days~~ ~~months~~ years of loving pestering by my husband, I finally caved and went to the eye doctor. I figured I was paying for eye insurance, so I might as well use it, right? Plus, I knew I didn't need glasses. Please. I had perfect sight. I was bionic woman, as a matter of fact. So I'd go and prove him wrong. My headaches were from staring at a computer, so maybe they could tell me how to fix that - and that's why I went.

After two hours of eye tests and charts and "this or this, this or this, one or two, a or b," I was at the front desk of the office...ordering my new, necessary glasses. I was SHOCKED when I had my eyes pressed behind what I like to call the owl mask and she was flipping back and forth and asking this or that - sometimes, with a "this" or a "that," I could actually READ what was on the board. Without it - nada. It was all a big blur. I hadn't realized that my eyes had slowly been causing blurred vision, until I saw what I COULD be seeing clearly with glasses.

When the glasses came in, they took some time to adjust to. My son cried when I walked in the door with them, because I didn't look like mommy. (Side note: Now he cries if I take them off, because I don't look like mommy without them, lol). They made my nose break out where they touched the skin. But within a week I noticed two things: I could see, and I did not have one headache even after staring at a computer all day. It was amazing.

With that knowledge in hand, I thought I might try to read a book. Who knows, I thought, maybe I can get back to some of my old habits. When I picked up that first book, I read and read and read for a couple hours - and afterwards, I remembered every part of the story thus far! It was such an amazing feeling. I hadn't lost my love of reading - I just had vision problems, which weren't letting me truly focus on what I was doing. The vision problem was causing me to do anything else but read because my eyes were too strained, and once that problem was lifted, I was able to start flying through books again - and play softball. The reason I wasn't catching balls was only partly because I'm 15 years older than the last time I played on a school team ;) The other part was my depth perception was off, causing me to be scared of the ball. Once that was corrected with my glasses, bam - I was able to play again ;)

And now, as I sit here looking at the next book on my list - a book by Nora Roberts - I can smile knowing that I am back to doing something I love. And while I could have downloaded that book on my iPad and propped it up to read in bed, I will be basking in the feel of the pages between my fingers as I read that old book that has been sitting on my shelf for years, just waiting for me to get those glasses.

Happy reading all!

$1304 worth of toys (95 items) for $393 ;)

2011-07-28T21:40:00.003-05:00

**I put a list of items, prices and discounts at the bottom of this post.

I admit it - I'm a shop a holic. And a deal-a-holic, especially when it comes to Target's clearance sale. I wait for it every January and July, to stock up for the coming Christmas for two reasons:

1) we have a lot of people to buy for
2) we buy toys and clothes for the women's and children's shelter, which is something my mom used to do when she was alive. I have a firm belief that no child should go without a present on Christmas morning, and that no parent should ever be in the position where they aren't able to give their child a present. We buy gifts in the hope that the holidays are a little better for those at the shelter.

So, obviously spending a thousand dollars on toys would be amazing - I would love being able to do that, but I just can't. However, what I can do is spend wisely to make the best use. With my son now, it's a little harder, because I know he'll want a couple bigger things like a video game or something, but this year he's into Legos and such, so I can still get a couple good things for him at the sale.

My daughter however, is still little, and is happy with little things, especially Littlest Pet Shop and anything related to dolls.

Anyway - back to the point - today, I bought $1,304 worth of toys at Target for...$393!!!!

Oh yeah, I am one happy camper. It's going to make for happy kids for me, and a great Christmas for the families at the shelter!

I cannot wait to drop the gifts off at the shelter tomorrow - it's going to be the highlight of my weekend!! Have a great weekend, everyone!!

Allie

Here is a list of what we got, for those shop-a-holic, deal-a-holics like me ;). I broke it down into categories, because I like to make sure I don't have more boy stuff than girl stuff and vice versa for the shelter.

Type	Toy	Original Price	Discount
Animals	Furry Frenz Coach and Stage	$19.99	$4.98
Animals	Furry Frenz Scoot and Scurry City	$30.99	$7.74
Animals	Kung zoo Hamster	$5.00	$2.50
Animals	Kung zoo Hamster	$5.00	$2.50
Animals	Kung zoo Hamster	$5.00	$2.50
Arts	Designer Doggie Kit	$18.29	$4.57
Arts	Aqua Sand	$5.00	$3.50
Arts	Aqua Sand	$5.00	$3.50
Arts	PlayDoh Elefun	$7.04	$1.76
Arts	Moon Sand Construction Zone	$14.99	$3.74
Arts	Crayola Glow Explosion Sand	$14.99	$3.74
Arts	Spongebob Doodle Pad	$5.99	$1.76
Arts	Spongebob Doodle Pad	$5.99	$1.76
Building	Knex	$11.39	$5.68
Building	Knex building Kit	$21.09	$5.27
Building	Dragon Universe lego-type set	$19.99	$4.98
Building	Harry Potter Lego Set	$19.99	$4.98
Building	Pirates of the Carribean Lego Set	$49.99	$12.48
Building	Lego Motorcycle - Technic	$39.99	$19.98
Building	Halo Lego-type kit	$10.09	$5.04
Building	Knex	$11.39	$5.68
Clothes	Girl's Scarf	$7.99	$1.98
Clothes	Hello Kitty Belt	$7.99	$1.98
Doll	Tangled Doll vanity	$20.79	$14.55
Doll	Circo Twin Dolls	$19.79	$4.94
Doll	My Generation Doll	$19.99	$13.98
Doll	Doll Swing	$9.74	$2.43
Doll	Tangled Color Change Hair	$21.99	$5.48
Doll	Barbie Cut and Style Hair	$21.99	$5.48
Doll	Angelina Ballerina Doll	$19.99	$4.98
Doll	Baby Alive	$24.89	$6.22
Doll	Barbie	$10.99	$5.48
Doll	Barbie	$10.99	$5.48
Doll	My 1st Baby Alive	$19.79	$4.94
Doll	Baby Alive Get Well	$19.89	$4.97
Doll	Circo Twin Dolls	$19.79	$4.94
Dolls	Circo Twin Dolls	$19.79	$4.94
Dress Up	Ironman Arc Light for Clothes	$6.99	$1.74
Dress Up	Ironman Mask	$8.99	$2.24
Educational	Leap Frog learn to Groove Mic	$15.99	$3.98
Educational	Leap Frog Tag Reader Penguins of madagascar Book	$13.99	$3.48
Figure	My Little Pony	$12.99	$3.24
Figure	My Little Pony	$12.99	$3.24
Figure	Zoobles	$7.99	$1.98
Figure	Zoobles	$7.99	$1.98
Figure	Littlest Pet Shop	$8.99	$6.28
Figure	Littlest Pet Shop	$3.99	$2.78
Figure	Littlest Pet Shop	$3.99	$2.78
Figure	Littlest Pet Shop	$3.99	$1.98
Figure	My Little Pony	$14.99	$3.74
Figure	Polly Pocket Kit	$16.99	$4.24
Figure	Bakugon Holder	$9.99	$4.98
Figure	Bakugon Holder	$9.99	$4.98
Figure	Tron Action Figure	$9.99	$2.48
Figure	Tron Action Figure	$9.99	$2.48
Figure	Bakugon Mechagon	$17.99	$4.48
Figure	Bakugon Mechagon	$17.99	$4.48
Figure	Pokemon Center	$15.99	$3.98
Figure	Bakugon Battle Gear	$5.99	$1.48
Figure	Bakugon Battle Gear	$5.99	$1.48
Figure	Bakugon	$7.99	$2.06
Figure	My Little Pony	$12.99	$3.24
Figure	Angelina Ballerina Toy	$6.84	$1.71
Figure	Angelina Ballerina Toy	$6.84	$1.71
Figure	Polly Pockets	$10.99	$2.74
Figure	Polly Pockets	$10.99	$2.74
Figure	Transformers Action Figures	$9.99	$2.48
Figure	Thor	$12.99	$3.24
Figure	Thor	$12.99	$3.24
Figure	Ben 10 Humongosaur	$8.79	$2.18
Figure	Ben 10 Spidermonkey	$8.79	$2.18
Figure	Transformer vehicle	$14.99	$3.74
Figure	Phinneas and Ferb Set	$9.99	$2.48
Figure	Phinneas and Ferb Set	$9.99	$2.48
Figure	Phinneas Squishy Head	$5.99	$1.48
Figure	Dr. Doofenshmirtz Squishy Head	$5.99	$1.48
Figure	Talking Phineas	$9.99	$2.48
Figure	Talking Ferb	$9.99	$2.48
Figure	Strawberry Shortcake Twirling Flower Fashion	$14.99	$3.24
Game	Monkey Dunk Game	$14.79	$3.68
Game	PlayDoh Smashed Potatoes Game	$19.99	$4.98
Game	Rock Em Sock Em Robots Game	$18.99	$4.74
Game	Toy Story Airport Adventure Game	$20.99	$5.24
Game	Hyperdash Game	$19.99	$4.98
Game	Sorry spin Game	$18.99	$4.74
Game	Moustrap Game	$19.99	$4.98
Game	Balderdash Game	$24.99	$6.24
Game	Funglish Game	$19.99	$4.98
Game	Battleship Build Game	$14.99	$4.98
Game	Uno Spin Game	$9.99	$4.98
Game	Lego Connect 4 Game	$9.99	$2.48
Game	Playdoh Toy Time Race Game	$14.99	$3.74
Vehicles	Matchbox Rolling Barrel set	$17.99	$4.98
Vehicles	DC Super Friends Shake and Go car	$11.99	$2.98
Vehicles	Cars Hotwheels	$4.99	$1.24


		$1,304.10	$393.23

Dolly & Me Hair Accesories ;)

2011-07-24T21:16:00.000-05:00

Just got done creating a new line for my shop - Dolly & Me hair accessories! I have them listed on etsy, and in addition, I'm giving 20% off with coupon code THANKS. These would be great for Halloween, Christmas, or everyday.

Dolly & Me Accessories - Red and Ribbon Fancy Clips

$10.99 USD

Dolly & Me Accessories - Pink and Ribboned Fascinator Clips

$10.99 USD

Dolly & Me Accessories - Purple Satin Clips

$10.99 USD

Have a great week, everyone ;)

Allie

Who loves free stuff? 5 Blog Giveaways!! (Jewelry, Hairpieces, etc!!)

2011-07-22T17:11:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited to be part of Flapper Fashion's giveaway week, where she has 5 days worth of giveaways listed! Go and check it out - http://mckells-closet.blogspot.com/. It's amazing! I really want to win the charm from Tuesday, or the ring from Wednesday! Go on over there and take a chance on winning something great! And I'm offering a 40% discount on today's giveaway blogpost for her!

Hobby Lobby 90% off - Gotta love a sale!

2011-07-12T20:01:00.000-05:00

There's not much I love more than my kids, my husband, and my family and friends. The only thing that takes a close second is a good sale ;)

I stopped into Hobby Lobby for some sequined trim. But seriously, I have never, ever walked out of there or Michael's with ONLY what I went for. I think I have a sickness (or weakness ;)!)

They had 90% off of their clearance home goods. $157.85 worth of goodies for...$23.87. A savings of 133.98. AWESOME!

Oh, I went a bit crazy! I bought 6 baskets, 2 metal signs, a decorative box, and six candles for my fireplace! The three stacked baskets in the first picture, along with the dark ones, are for displaying items from my shop at craft fairs. The light colored moses basket is for my daughter to carry her dolly in. (It has a broken piece on the side, but I'm going to fix it in a later post!) The motorcycle sign is for hubby's man cave, in honor of his motorcycle, and the fishing sign is for my son who has discovered a love of fishing with grandpa. The decorative "amor" box is for all the little trinkets and love letters from my sweetie over the years, and the candles are filling my fireplace for a little pretend fire during the summer.

EEK! I love sales ;)

Etsy Photo Shoot #2

2011-07-12T19:50:00.000-05:00

I have so much fun at these photo shoots with all the little models! They are too adorable each time ;) These are all items I've added - or am adding - to Prose Boutique!

200 Follwers? :)

2011-07-12T19:46:00.000-05:00

If I can get to 200 followers here on Facebook, then I will host a giveaway of items from my shop, Prose Boutique! To enter, "like" Prose Boutique on Facebook, and leave a comment here with what item you'd like to win! For extra entries, have your friends "like" the page - and then have them leave a comment here or on my wall with who sent them!

I'm really excited to be running my own little company, and I want to share the joy I have in sewing - so be sure to "like" me for a chance to win!

Allie

Everyday is a Good Day

2011-07-07T13:24:00.000-05:00

The past two weeks have been a bit rough. Our dryer broke. My husband's car was hit around midnight while it was parked outside by a hit and run driver (thankfully, no one was in the car). Our septic overflowed in the basement, thanks to roots growing through the pipes. And my car was almost hit yesterday by a teen driver who swerved into my lane (causing me to swerve into oncoming traffic) - but luckily, no one got hit.

And it's weeks like this where I often find myself taking a few deep breaths and remembering it could be worse. No one is sick, no one is hurt. Those broken things are replaceable and fixable.

In the midst of these days, I've come to find that I truly look forward to every single morning. Not just because I wake up breathing (thankfully!), but because of how each morning starts.

Around 4 a.m. when my hubby gets up for work, my daughter climbs into bed with me to snuggle. Okay, 80% snuggle, 20% flail every limb and bruise me. But snuggling trumps ;)

Then when my "cuddle" alarm goes off (this is what my son calls it, because it's set for a half hour before we get up, so we can snuggle), he crawls out of his bed and into mine. My daughter snuggles up against my back, I snuggle my arms around my son, and for a half hour I am in heaven.

I know it won't always be like this. He's nearly six, and the days where snuggling mom are no longer cool are rapidly approaching. And before I know it, my little girl will be growing up and I'll be snuggle-less in the mornings.

When the real alarm finally goes off, I give them each some tickles and their smiles light up the room, before they attack me with kisses and ask for five more minutes of snuggles.

It's in moments like this that nothing broken or frustrating even enters the realm of my mind, because I'm too busy experiencing first hand how lucky and blessed my life really is. And on weekends, when the whole family is snuggling in that big ol' bed, I know I never felt more complete than with my wonderful little family. They are my whole life, and I'm perfectly okay with that.

Spicing up the Little Black Dress

2011-07-06T23:32:00.000-05:00

I recently had a wedding to go to. In typical girl style, I had to find a new dress. What I came up with not only saved me money, but became a useful way to change up plain t-shirts, too! (and I make them for my shop, here).

Obviously, right? Because the 20 I have in my closet just wouldn't do. (I don't understand either. Apparently, this is just how it works.)

So after at least 10 stores, and what felt like 10 million dresses, here were my thoughts:

1) I'm too fat.

2) I'm too pale.

3) This dress is too hot.

4) That dress is too thin.
5) This dress is too long.

6) That dress is too short.

Oh, the comments could go on and on. When I got home, and was playing around with flowers for headbands, I thought, hmmmmmm....

Now, I have a cute, little black dress. Very simple, with some ruffles at the bottom and a drop waist. It's thin so it's great for summer, but it is so plain. And black. And this was a wedding I was going to. I didn't want to permanently alter my dress, but I thought of an even better solution - make a clip that I can clip onto the neckline, and change out!

I made two, and from there picked one. One was multi-colored with spring colors, the other was a royal blue. My husband's favorite color is royal blue, so I went with that one. I even made an extra flower to clip on my little black purse, but I forgot to take a photo :(

So anyway, I apologize in advance for the quality of the pictures, but it was a point and shoot, and it was dark. I did make a couple for my shop, too.

BIG Discount ;) I love a deal - especially for Chocolate Day, which is July 7!

2011-07-06T23:24:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow is Chocolate Day - and also 7/7 - so I am hosting a little deal at my shop - 40% off your entire order (excludes shipping). Please feel free to share the deal with friends.

http://www.proseboutique.etsy.com/
www.facebook.com/ProseBoutiqueFashion

Some of the items available include:

Feathery Panda Pretty
$4.99 USD

Blue Satin Rosette & Rhine...

$4.99 USD

Pink, Frayed Heart Shirt w...
$14.99 USD

White Satin Floral Bib Nec...
$15.99 USD

Mischevious Monkey Headban...
$4.99 USD

Pink and Blue and Just For You
$6.99

Go Green (and pink) Bib an...

$14.98 USD

$16.99 USD

The Little Black Dress Rem...

Peach Rosette Headband Wit...
$4.99 USD

Orange Feathery Fun
$4.99 USD

$4.99 USD

Peach Satin Rosette

Fourth of July Dress

2011-07-06T23:10:00.000-05:00

Okay, I am definitely a little late on this ;) I'm sorry for the lack of posting lately, but between trying to squeeze in all the summer fun we can (let's face it - here in the midwest we have all of what, like 3 months of nice weather?!) and running Prose Boutique and working full-time, I have been neglectful. But I do love you, dear blog followers, and will work harder to try and post ;)

So here is the dress I created for my daughter for the 4th of July. The dress itself was from Walmart for $5. I liked it because it was lightweight and red. I sewed on the stars from a blue starred fabric I had, and then created a blue floral headband for her to wear with it. Everyone loved it at the party, so that was nice. I always worry people won't like the stuff I've made, so it's nice to know they do!

Hope you are having a GREAT week, blogland!

Fashion Shoot for the Little Fashionistas!

2011-06-17T23:24:00.000-05:00

I decided to host a fashion photography shoot for some little fashionista friends ;.) And I'm giving a 40% discount with coupon code BIGDEAL at www.proseboutique.etsy.com I needed hairbow models for Prose Boutique because I've posted many new items on the site and wanted fun pictures for them, and these gals are adorable and ready to model! We headed out to an area forest preserve with bows and a rocking chair and had a great time getting pictures. For the record, my little fashionista wanted nothing to do with taking pics until she saw the other girls having fun. And she picked out her own outfit (hello kitty and batgirl, of course!)

Hello Kitty Extravaganza!

2011-06-17T23:13:00.002-05:00

As I've mentioned in the past, my daughter is an extreme Hello Kitty fan:

p.s. the hat in the last pic was made by Flapper Fashions. If you have never visited her site - you should!

Also, see more evidence of my crazy Hello Kitty craftiness here and here.

My son was never really into any one thing at 2 years old, but she adores Hello Kitty. And that of course makes her aunts, and grandma, and my friends (okay, okay, and me and daddy) buy her Hello Kitty stuff. She has three Hello Kitty shirts and some days it is a BATTLE to convince her she should wear one of the other 8 bazillion shirts she has.

So back to my point: every time I see the price on Hello Kitty items, it makes me cringe. See, I am a thrifty girl. I can't tell you the last time I bought something that wasn't on sale (and most of the time, only 1 out of every time items I buy is not on clearance). So to pay full price for these items...hurts. Especially when it is something she loves to wear all the time. So I've come up with a nifty little solution tonight after a trip to Build-A-Bear to celebrate potty training with - you guessed it - the new limited edition pink Hello Kitty. (side note: I had money left on a gift card, and a $5 coupon. Told you - I don't buy things full price!)

Low and behold, the tag attached to Hello Kitty was a thick, glossy cardboard, and aside from a hole in the ear where the tag went through, was in perfect condition.

Hmmmmmm.... you can already see where I'm going with this ;)

I hot glued it to felt. I put a rhinestone on the hole in her ear (like an earring). I used some scrapbooking half-pearls that I bought on clearance at Michael around the head. I glued the whole contraption to a very old, broken white hairbow I had. And then I wrapped an old, beat up headband of hers in strips of denim (frayed to look vintage), and attached the Hello Kitty head to it.

PERFECT! And for no real additional cost (okay, like 10 cents), she had a new hairbow! Hello Kitty hairbow, that is.

I knew I had a couple more of those little things laying around - one was the backing to a Hello Kitty necklace I picked up in the dollar bin at Target a few weeks back, and one was from the shirt a friend just gave her.

I did the same thing ;) One of them had, in type, "3+ years" on the ear, so I covered it up with some white cardboard, then added a felt and button bow to cover it all up. I think she'll be pretty happy tomorrow ;)

Before - two of the pieces. I was too excited and forgot to take a pic of the first one before I started!

And after!!

Sick Day Fun

2011-06-05T20:28:00.001-05:00

I live in the midwest, and this year, Mother Nature has pretty much rained on us five out of seven days a week for months. And the sunny days are always mid-week when I'm working. In fact, this was the first week we didn't have to wonder if our son was going to get to play his baseball game. At the end of the game (1.5 hours of 3 to 6 year olds playing baseball - oy!) our daughter, who is 2, started acting really out of it. I mean, scarily. She had been eating, drinking, playing, then all of a sudden she was just lethargic. We darted home, got her in a lukewarm bath, called the doc, put her in an air conditioned room, got her temp down. Thought it was heat stroke. Until this a.m. when our son woke up with a 103 fever, too. (P.S. our daughter's temp came down, thankfully!)

And both days were gloriously sunny. So, after being trapped in the house all day yesterday worrying about our baby girl, we were all a little stir-crazy today knowing we'd be in the house all day again on such a nice day. With a little medicine and lots of popsicles, you wouldn't even know they were sick except for the fevers.

I decided a little fun experiment would make the day a little more lively for us, so I got out the tub of old, broken crayons I've kept. We go through a lot of crayons, lol! I decided to make some new, multi-colored crayons for the kiddos.

**Note before you start: Be careful not to try and speed the process. I did this one on purpose to show what will happen - your crayons will not melt enough to seal together, or if you get water in they won't bind.

You need:

your broken crayons
tealight candles (in a holder - I got a pack of like 20 from the dollar tree, and they are perfect)
an old pan
a small tray of some sort

Pry the tealight candles out of their thin metal holders (they normally pop right out).

You want to put a little water in the bottom of your pan (about 1/4 inch or so) and put it on the stove til it is really hot. You don't want the water boiling though, so make sure once it starts to boil you turn it down til it settles.

Take out your crayons, unwrap the paper from them, and use a butter knife or scissors to chop them into pieces. The sizes don't matter - some can be bigger chunks, some smaller. Put the chunks into the holders.

Place the holders with the chunks into the pan with the hot water. Keep adding chunks as they melt, but don't stir them (otherwise you'll get a big brown crayon every time). This is when you'll want to add in some shavings, to fill in the top layer. I just use the butter knife to shave some shavings from different colors, and sprinkle it on top of the mix.

You can put a lid on if you want, but make sure the temp is somewhat low. You need to let them "cook" for probably about 20 minutes, maybe more, as they melt. The shavings will help the chunks of crayon mold into place and stay together.

Now, fill the tray (I used a meatloaf pan) with about 1/4 inch of cold water. once your crayons are melted, take them out carefully (with tongs or a spatula) and slide them into the cold water. Once all of my little tins are in there, I normally add ice to speed the cooling process. If you do this, in about 10 minutes your crayons are ready to go.

Use old pans if possible, because you WILL get melted crayon on them (unless you are superwoman. If so, I want your tips!)

Lastly, let the kids color with new rainbow crayons that cost you a dollar at most ;) The great part is you can use those metal tins over and over again, they are GREAT. I just let them dry, throw them in a ziplock and tuck them away with the broken crayons for the next time we want to make some ;)

see? spillage all the time ;)

40% off sale

2011-05-30T23:00:00.001-05:00

Oops - one more post, sorry ;)

40% off this entire week through Saturday with code BigDeal - that's 40% off the entire purchase, not just one item. Thanks ;)

http://www.proseboutique.etsy.com/
www.facebook.com/ProseBoutiqueFashion
Twitter: @ProseBoutique

Fourth of July Creativity & Fun

2011-05-30T22:58:00.000-05:00

I love creating holiday decorations (especially if my mini-me is going to don them ;)!!) Last week, I created this Fourth of July wreath for my door, and this weekend (since apparently - minus today - all the weather here wants to do lately is rain), I had a lot of free time on my hands to do some creating.

And of course, hairbows it was. I created a ton of different ones that I'm going to hand out to my friends' little ones to wear for the holiday, and then I (as always) created duplicates for the shop. I can't wait for fireworks and sparklers and watching my kids as they stare in awe at the sky lighting up ;) And I love that we get to teach them about freedom, and how lucky they are to live in a land where they can have an opinion and it can be anything they want, thanks to the freedom our ancestors created.

What are you making for the Fourth of July?

Headbands!

2011-05-30T22:51:00.000-05:00

I love Claire's accessories in the mall - especially when they have their clearance 10 items for $10 ;) I stocked up on items that I can dissassemble and use (buttons, earrings, bracelets, necklaces, clips, headbands, etc) in creating my crafting items.

I of course first made one for me, because I love this button. I don't know why, but I am just totally drawn to it (maybe because I'm such a romantic!)

Then I made these headbands for my daughter (and of course made some duplicates for the shop ;) !) and my little one loved them. She loves animals right now, so the monkey and panda buttons were right up her alley! And she loves the feathers I've been using in headbands and clips, so she was even excited about some of the clips I made her (also made duplicates of those for the shop) because they had feathers.

I can't wait for her to start wearing all these!

Have a great week everyone!

Summer has FINALLY arrived! (And we kicked it off in style!)

2011-05-30T22:42:00.000-05:00

Ahhh...summer ;) First, we...

played in the new sprinkler

played a little catch

then more sprinkler

we got fishy fingers from being in the water so long

and then super daddy came home and surprised me with a hammock!!

i've wanted one for so long, i was beyond excited!

then we prepped dinner...complete with wine

p.s. check out all these corks i'm saving for a project ;)

dinner ... steaks, chicken, and corn on the cob (we make lots, so we can have some for lunch the next day)

then some more hammock time

and smores!!!!

we wrapped up the night with reading a few books in the hammock, bathtime and then bed. Sigh, what a great life!

Anyone host giveaways? Or Guest posts?

2011-05-25T10:51:00.002-05:00

I'm looking to spread the word about my shop - so I'd like to host some giveaways, as well as giving your readers a discount to my store. If you (or a blog you know) would be interested, please let me know!

Making a Shirt from the Skull/Crossbones Dress Scraps!

2011-05-24T22:22:00.001-05:00

I found a way to still use my shirt! Woo hoo! After making this dress for my daughter, I decided to cut up another old white shirt of mine that I didn't like (had a stain on the upper right chest) and use the bottom of that with the top of my black and white striped shirt that is a special memory for me!

Super simple to sew together. I love that it's not short anymore, and that it is a big contrast. And it's lightweight for summer.

;)

I love new clothing. And I already have an idea for when I decide I don't want to wear the shirt anymore (as it inevitably happens with every piece of clothing I own, lol) - I am going to make it into a pillow that can decorate my bed ;)

The shirts before:

What happened to the other half of the black & white shirt:

The shirts after (please ignore the hair/lack of makeup. It's late. And I'm not a supermodel, so don't expect awesome poses!)

visit these awesome blogs!

http://www.bluecricketdesign.net/2011/05/show-and-tell-linking-fun.html
http://sewmuchado.blogspot.com/2011/05/we-did-it-wednesday_24.html

Girly Skull and Crossbones Upcycled Dress

2011-05-24T22:15:00.004-05:00

I bought a 3T shirt at a resale shop on sale for 50 cents months ago. It's sat in my pile of "I'll get to this eventually" projects. I bought it specifically with the purpose of adding an iron-on I bought - also months ago, and at least a month before the shirt - of a girl skull and crossbones.

Tonight, I decided, why not? Let's be productive. ;)

I needed a bottom, because instead of just the shirt, I wanted to create a dress. In the pile is a shirt I have had for years. It is a simple black and white stripe, but I love it. I bought it with my mom on one of our last shopping trips together. It was a "share" shirt - one of the shirts we would share between eachother. For that sentimental reason, I haven't been able to get rid of it. It shrunk though, and was really short, and I can't do short shirts, lol.

I also love the 3/4 sleeves on it. I don't have tanktop arms, so I like sleeves. Preferably 3/4 ;) (I used the scraps from this dress to make this shirt.)

I cut off the bottom of the shirt from right under the armpits. It would make a perfect bottom to the dress, and even more, it would be a happy reminder of the fun times I had with my mom each time my cutie pie wears this special dress.

It was easy to sew - I used a gathering stitch to make the skirt ruffle a bit at the waist. I sewed the pieces together, cut the cuffs off the sleeves and shortened the sleeves, then sewed the cuffs back on to make it 3/4, then ironed on the design. After that, I cut out a skull and eyes and nose, along with a pink felt and rhinestone bow, glued that onto a pink flower, and that onto a headband with feathers for a cute little girly outfit.

And wa-lah! Another post will follow about what I did with the rest of the shirt. ;)

The 3T shirt

My old shirt

Ta-da!

awwww - he wanted to smile with his sister!

My son took this photo - he is going to be a great photographer someday!

visit these awesome blogs!

http://www.bluecricketdesign.net/2011/05/show-and-tell-linking-fun.html

http://sewmuchado.blogspot.com/2011/05/we-did-it-wednesday_24.html

http://sewwoodsy.blogspot.com/search/label/Link%20Party
http://www.ellebelleblog.blogspot.com/
http://nightowlcrafting.blogspot.com/
http://tearosehome.blogspot.com/
http://womenwhodoitall.blogspot.com/
http://www.mybackyardeden.com/
http://www.creationsbykara.com/
http://thetrendytreehouse.blogspot.com/
http://733blog.blogspot.com/

Simple Fourth of July wreath

2011-05-24T20:57:00.003-05:00

I found this awesome wreath at a garage sale last year, for a quarter! I had been looking everywhere for one, but the stores that carry them were expensive. It was usually at the very least $10 for a wreath half this size.

I've been trying (only half successfully) to change it's decor seasonally. I have a ton of these flowers made, so thought, hmmm, why not just add some to the wreath? It's simple, it's patriotic, and it is exactly what I like - flowers!

I'm excited that summer is nearly here!!

visit these awesome blogs!
http://sewmuchado.blogspot.com/2011/05/we-did-it-wednesday_24.html

http://www.bluecricketdesign.net/2011/05/show-and-tell-linking-fun.html

Headband - Can I Pull it Off, Or Do I look too Hippy?

2011-05-24T09:24:00.006-05:00

I need some insight. Do you like this look, or does it look a little too odd on me? My husband was not a big fan, but I thought it was cute. I made myself a few while I was making some for my store, and I'm just hoping I don't look like a walking mess because perhaps I'm just not the type who can pull off these bohemian headbands, lol!

Here it is close up, then me wearing it:

Visit these awesome sites - they have such cute ideas (and linky parties!)

http://sewcando.blogspot.com/

http://www.creatingreallyawesomefreethings.com/

http://itssoverycheri.com/2011/05/22/05-22-2011-party-time/

http://thediyshowoff.blogspot.com/

http://sumossweetstuff.blogspot.com/

http://makingtheworldcuter.blogspot.com/

http://thecreativeitchboutique.blogspot.com/2011/05/sew-cute-tuesday-52411.html

http://lambaround.blogspot.com/2011/05/blog-hop-and-best-in-show-winner.html

http://blackberryvine.blogspot.com/2011/05/tuesday-to-do-party-11-and-listmakers.html

http://thecreativeitchboutique.blogspot.com/2011/05/sew-cute-tuesday-52411.html

http://www.betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/

http://craftomaniac.blogspot.com/

http://sewmuchado.blogspot.com/2011/05/we-did-it-wednesday_24.html

Transforming a Shirt (we thought was ruined)

2011-05-24T09:21:00.000-05:00

I don't know if your kid is like mine, but my daughter is a walking dirt magnet, lol! She goes to daycare with all boys, and she can play in the mud and muck with the best of them. Unlike her older brother, she has no problem at all getting dirty, and so most of her shirts end up with spills or stains that I don't get out (if you have suggestions on stain removal, I'm all for hearing them - I've tried everything I can find, and am open to new suggestions!!)

So this shirt is a Ralph Lauren, and I loved it! Pink and a very lightweight thermal material. The sleeves were stained with something blue. Probably a juice box or something, who knows.

Here's the shirt before...

Here's the stains - hard to see in the pic, but there are blue stains...

And here it is after - perfect for a 70 degree spring/summer day! I cut off the sleeves, cuffed the ends, and sewed them up with a stretchy loose stitch. She loves the pocket, I love not having to buy a shirt and being able to reuse one we have!

Have a great day everyone!

More Hello Kitty! (For the Hair)

2011-05-24T07:00:00.007-05:00

As I've mentioned before, my daughter is a Hello Kitty fanatic. Seriously. Hello Kitty Shirts, shorts, skirts, dresses, hairbows, shoes - you name it, she loves it.

I hate the price. It's CRAZY that a ponytail holder with a Hello Kitty plastic charm is priced at $12.99. REALLY? That's why I made this Hello Kitty tote a couple weeks ago.

Well, I decided to make my own. Thank you Target for Hello Kitty cardboard stickers, and dollar tree for headbands and ponytail holders! I have been able to make some clips for her that I am really happy with, and so is she! I also made a few for the boutique because I had a lot of additional supplies.

I have one more I'm making tonight from felt, so I'll share that later. She was thrilled, as was I! Low cost and still very cute (and even cuter because she is adorable!)

Visit these awesome sites - they have such cute ideas (and linky parties!)

http://sewcando.blogspot.com/

http://www.creatingreallyawesomefreethings.com/

http://itssoverycheri.com/2011/05/22/05-22-2011-party-time/

http://thediyshowoff.blogspot.com/

http://sumossweetstuff.blogspot.com/

http://makingtheworldcuter.blogspot.com/

http://thecreativeitchboutique.blogspot.com/2011/05/sew-cute-tuesday-52411.html

http://lambaround.blogspot.com/2011/05/blog-hop-and-best-in-show-winner.html

http://blackberryvine.blogspot.com/2011/05/tuesday-to-do-party-11-and-listmakers.html

http://thecreativeitchboutique.blogspot.com/2011/05/sew-cute-tuesday-52411.html

http://www.betweennapsontheporch.blogspot.com/

http://craftomaniac.blogspot.com/

http://sewmuchado.blogspot.com/2011/05/we-did-it-wednesday_24.html

BIG Sale! (I mean BIG!)

2011-05-19T22:33:00.002-05:00

Hey all! Clearing out my stock to add new items - so visit http://www.proseboutique.etsy.com/ now through Saturday because everything is on sale! Happy weekend!

Allie ;)

Six years ago today, at this very time...

2011-05-18T13:23:00.000-05:00

I was sitting with my mother, counting her final breaths before she left us for heaven. It's the first year I forgot about what day it was until a little while ago, which means I didn't spend the whole previous week obsessing and dreading the arrival of the date. Progress? I hope so.

Some people have told me over the years they don't think they could be in the room with someone while that person were dying, especially such a close family member. While I obviously wish that day had never happened, I have to say that because it did, I am very honestly happy that I got to be there as she left this world. There are months and months prior to that moment when a person is sick with cancer that all you see is the pain and struggle on their face. Even in their smiles, you see the sadness. It's there, buried in between glances and moments of clarity.

And those last hours, for us at least, it was still in her face. She was struggling to breath as her lungs filled with fluid. Her breathing slowed, and her body was rigid because of the effects of the tumor. And as she took her last breaths, and we finally realized she was no longer breathing, she was in our arms, and peaceful. Her face relaxed, her body relaxed. Surrounded by people who loved her, holding her hand and hugging her, she left this world.

I will be forever grateful for that moment, when I was able to see that pain and agony lift from her face and know that finally she felt peace. It somehow made the previous 13 months easier, and that made it slightly easier on my heart.

And just like she held me as I came into this world, I held her as she left, returning the favor. Life is only temporary, but love is forever.

Miss you mom. Hugs to you today and everyday.

Almost mother's day...

2011-05-06T20:29:00.000-05:00

And I'm trying to be in a good mood, I swear I am! And it's not that I'm not happy for everyone else who has their awesome mom's with them to celebrate the day, because everyone deserves to have their mother with them.

But I'm sorry, I know it's selfish - but my heart cannot take a million more of these mother's day posts or commercials or all the other stuff that comes with this time of year. I want to be happy (I am a mom now, afterall) and I do my best, but I do cry quite a few times during this week. All of the facebook posts about moms, and all this stuff, is just a reminder that mine isn't here.

I just got done putting together my (awesome) mother-in-laws gift. We got her a nook color. She deserves it, because she is really good to us. And I made little mother's day gifts for the moms in my life. But then I get hit out of nowhere with this wave of sadness because she's not here with me anymore. I think what's hardest is that the kids will never know or understand how great she was to me. I'll tell them stories, but you can hear all the stories in the world about someone and still not realize how awesome they are until you meet them. Only my kids never will.

Sigh. I just needed to vent. Sorry for the downer on a Friday night.

Me

Getting Organized (Did I ever tell you I'm a jewelry junkie!?)

2011-05-04T20:17:00.002-05:00

I'll let you in on a little secret. Okay, a not so little secret.

I am a jewelry-aholic. But not nice jewelry, because I'm always scared I'll lose it or someone will steal it, lol. So, I collect fun, funky, play jewelry. And lots of it!!

It's getting a little chaotic. So in the past few days, I've been tackling it in my free moments and it's finally starting to come together. First, I turned an old, rectangular cream-colored memo board into a dangly earring holder. I have an earring tree but hate it, and this memo board is working out much better for me. Plus, it's prettier!

I even made a little something-something for it, and I'd LOVE to credit the blogger where I got the idea, but I cannot find my notebook with her blog written down! So I'm sorry, awesome blogger with the amazing idea, but I cannot credit you! She used magnets and a white board, but I didn't have those and wanted to use materials I had on hand. So I utilized a shadow box from IKEA, some hot glue, and some velcro. Oh, and one of those little containers you use for putting formula and baby food in, with the dividers in it.

Using all that, I created...a makeup display box! This will be so useful - this stuff all used to just be tossed in a drawer, but now I can actually see what I'm looking for!!

Taking apart the shadow box, and gluing a light fabric to the mat for some color.

Velcro! attached one side to the fabri, the other to the makeup.

Took the little formula divider thing, and attached it with velcro, too. Now it holds all the little things, like tweezers, eyelash glue, etc.

ta-da!

And here is my insane collection of play jewelry. You can thank Claire's and Icing for their 10 for $10 clearance sales.

My new little makeup display.

Necklace insanity! I use little 3M hooks on the back of the closet door to hold my necklaces and keep them from getting tangled.

Linking to:
Night Owl Crafting

Creations by Kara
Bargain Shopping Paradise
Tea Rose Home
Someday Crafts
Sew Much Ado
Paisley Passions
Blue Cricket Design
My Backyard Eden
Sew Woodsey
My Girlish Whims

Feathers & Rosettes & Veil, oh my!

2011-05-02T22:31:00.001-05:00

My dining room is a disaster! It is such a disaster that no amount of money in the world short of one million dollars could make me show it to you!

It's for a good reason though - crafting ;) I was in crazy hair accessorie mode tonight, putting together some items for the shop. Thanks to my lovely hubby for putting up with my mess. You rock ;)

Here are some of the items I added. Have I ever mentioned I'm not a model? If not, well, I'm not a model. I HATE taking pictures. And all the gray hair I saw in the back of my head with a ponytail in has officially made me freak out. I'm 31!!!! Seriously? At this rate I'm going to be totally gray this year. Time to embrace it, I guess. ;)

Without further ado, here are some of the new pieces I made. Comments, constructive criticism, or anything to make me laugh are always welcome. Have a great day everyone!!

Am I Ashamed? No!

2011-05-01T20:41:00.000-05:00

In the midst of my wedding anniversary last week, I posted pictures of my wedding day - and these photos included my son, who was 18 months at the time.

Upon viewing said photos, someone (not naming names) asked me if I was "ashamed of having him in my wedding pictures?" And how was I going to explain him being there, since you aren't supposed to really have kids before you're married.

It's not the first time I've been asked these things, and I know it won't be the last. The first few times, it made me angry, but now, I just tell them that no, I am not ashamed, and I couldn't be prouder of the little man I have today.

Here's the breakdown:

Yes, I was pregnant before I was married. While I wish the timing would have been better (my mom would die of brain cancer when I was just two months pregnant), I am by no means ashamed that I was pregnant - whether or not I was married.

I was - and am still with - a man who, as you read in my anniversary post, is the love of my life. He has been not only my best friend, but my rock and the other half of my soul for nearly 10 years. And when I found out I was pregnant, I was scared. Not of the journey we were about to begin, but of what everyone else was going to say and think about me. And there were people who did not say or think very nice things about me at all. Hearing what was said about me behind my back was so hurtful at times, but it made me into a stronger person for it. It was during this that I learned that it is not what everyone else thinks of me, but what I think of myself, that truly matters. And if you think it's conceited, I'm sorry - but I think I'm a pretty decent person. I have my downfalls, and I have my bad points, but I think overall, I do a pretty darn good job of being a decent human being.

Now back to the matter at hand. When I found out I was pregnant, I was about to lose my mom after a very long journey with brain cancer. She was my best friend, and we were as close as a mother and daughter could be. I was beyond sad and angry. I knew the end was coming for her, and honestly, I was wondering how I would even begin to carry on living without her in my life.

And then I found out I was pregnant.

(This was our very first family photo, moments after my little man came into the world!) Suddenly, I had something so very important to keep going for, to take care of myself for. I knew I was losing my mom, but in my heart and mind, I felt like this baby was a gift from her - a person to love as much as I loved her, and to help me carry on with my life and keep moving forward.

For all intents and purposes, the little boy in my belly is what saved my life that year, and forced me to never give up.

In May, I lost my mom. It was hard and agnoizing, and the next few months were tough. So do I think it was coincidence that my son was due in early December - right before my birthday, and Christmas - the two hardest holidays I was going to have that year, the first without my mom?

Not at all - I think that was her plan all along. When he was born, and they placed him in my arms, he was by far, the most beautiful thing I had ever seen in my life. And I felt like my mom was right there with me - like she had been holding him in heaven until he was ready to be in my arms. And as I looked in those beautiful brown eyes, I knew without a doubt that there was no shame that was to ever be tied to this little boy's birth. He was perfect, and wanted, and loved - and he was meant to be in my arms at that very moment.

So to every person who wonders if I should feel ashamed that he was born before I was married, or how I'm going to explain his presence in my wedding pictures, here is what I say:

No, I am not, nor will I ever be, ashamed that my baby boy came into my life when he did - pre-wedding. He is what saved my life the year my mother died. And no matter where he goes or what he does in life, I will always be proud that he has been a part of my life. If he should ask why he was in the wedding pictures, I will tell him the truth - mommy and daddy were so excited to have him in our lives, and couldn't wait to get him all dressed up in a tux to help us celebrate our special day. He came to us when he was supposed to come to us, and every moment I get to give him hugs and love is the greatest moment of my life.

I love you little man (and your sister who came post-wedding, too!). Thanks for making me wake up every morning, realizing how blessed I am in life.

Love,
Momma

The second they place him into my arms

Isn't this guy gorgeous?!

The best photo ever - the love of my life holding his first born for the very first time. The smile on his face says it all. So no world, I'll never be ashamed of moments like this!

Four Year Anniversary - I Love You Babe ;)

2011-04-27T22:43:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow is the fourth anniversary of our wedding day. Being the nostalgic fool I am, I've been listening to our wedding songs and looking at the album this week. It was such an amazing day.

Our Song (he picked it out)

I was a pretty laid-back bride. When the cake decorater asked what type of cake I wanted? "Whatever." When the florist asked about flowers? "Whatever. They just need to be blue and white." (Our theme was Cubs and Sox, lol). I made wrappers for our candy bars as table favors, I made our programs (complete with stories of our wedding party's favorite memories of us). I wasn't stressed -- well, except for that one minor moment two nights before the wedding when our DJs home was broken into and all his equipment (songs included) was stolen. And I would have no DJ. Yikes! I wanted to cry but couldn't because I'd just had a spray tan - seriously - and so I was pretty much hyperventilating, sitting on the bed when my soon-to-be hubby came home and asked what on earth was wrong. thanks to a bridesmaid, we had a dj locked in that night, and the party could carry on ;)

Honestly, the only thing I cared about (and hence, the breakdown over music when I gave everyone else license to be creative) was that everyone have a good time. We didn't have a super fancy hall; the food was family style (and delicious). Our son was 18 months and so cute in his little tux. When they asked if anyone had any objections, my son said, "uh oh" about something else - but it was just such funny timing and everyone was laughing. It was the day of my dreams, followed by the reception of my dreams. Complete with the man, and son, of my dreams.

My husband is amazing. We've been married four years, but together for nine. And for all intents and purposes, I might as well say 10, because we were a psuedo-couple the first year we met, whether we admitted it or not.

He's been by my side through so much, both good and bad. When my mom was dying of brain cancer, he was there, with no expectations and no drama - he was just there. When we found out we were pregnant - and not married - he didn't freak out. He kept a level head, he supported me, he made sure we saw all the joy we were going to experience (and he was right). While I wasn't thrilled at the time, I look back now and am grateful for this: he said he wouldn't marry me while I was pregnant, because he never, ever wanted anyone to ever say that we only got married because we were having a baby. And I'm grateful for that now because there is no denying it - we were together because we wanted to be, and married because we wanted to be.

When I was in labor, he was holding my hand, telling me how proud he was of me and coaching my breathing. When I was tired, he was getting up with babies and letting me sleep in. He never forgets cards or anniversaries, and he constantly puts the kids and I first, making sure we spend a lot of time as a family and doing things we'll always remember.

When we first started dating, we'd talk for hours into the night. We'd spend every moment together, going out all the time and hanging out with friends. While our lives have changed a bit because of babies and jobs and bills, and we don't spend hours talking or go out all the time, I never have a doubt that he loves me. I hope he knows that it isn't the big moments I treasure most, but the small ones he creates every day. Such as:

Putting up with my disorganization and chaotic house.
Putting up with my crafting stuff everywhere.
How he cooks me dinner pretty much every day.
Taking me places where I can take photos.
Taking me out to boutiques around town to promote my business (it means so much that he really believes in me)
Getting up early with the kids on the weekend so I can sleep a little longer
His kisses goodbye in the morning, when he thinks I'm still asleep but I'm really awake just waiting for those
How sweet it is to see he and the kids asleep in bed, all cuddling.
How he tells me I'm beautiful, even on days I know I'm not.
When he goes along with all my crazy schemes and plans, just to see me happy.
How he talks about my mom, or says something reminds him of her - or tells me how proud she'd be of me.
How he tolerates how much of her stuff I still have, because I just can't give it away yet. And he finds places to display it, just because he knows it's important.
How he remembers what my favorite meals are at every restaurant, even when I don't.
How he always gets my favorite ice cream instead of his.

I could go on and on, because the list is eternal. I wake up each day and can't believe that I found this man who, though we have our ups and downs, has stood by my side and held my hand through everything in the last 10 years.

So happy fourth anniversary baby. I know we have many more ahead of us, but each year it will be the same: I will always, always be eternally grateful that I found you. You've brought the three greatest things in the world into my life -- you, Pey, and Alex.

Love you,
Me

And to my wonderful wedding party, especially my girls (pictured below) Patty, Nancy, Jackie, Carrie, Caitlin, Meem, Kate and my honorary Cathy - thank you for being the best friends anyone could ever ask for. I love you guys. And to my honorary mamas (pictured below) Helen, Robin, Paula, Sharon, Sharon, Cathy, Nancy, and Lori, who have been there for my mom, and my family, and now me for every important event in our lives, thank you - and we love you very much.

Tote Bags - My new Passion ;)

2011-04-27T22:08:00.000-05:00

I don't know about you, but I am a huge fan of tote bags, and probably have 20. I use them for different things - carrying snacks, a diaper bag, a work bag, a day out at the beach. But, I don't like to pay $30 for them. Specifically, ones with particular themes. Which is why I decided to create some with my daughter's favorite themes, and I previously posted about her Hello Kitty bag. Well, the others I made her were such a hit that I decided to add a few more to my shop tonight.

Sequins and glitter and Minnie Mouse - a great combo ;) Plus - I've started using these as gift bags - so instead of giving birthday gifts in paper gift bags, I use these. How perfect is that? The little girls always love it. Plus, they are reversible - so it's like two totes in one! I'm excited to start offering custom totes too, so customers can pick the color/theme and I can put together something cute!

Minnie Mouse Reversible Tote

Zebra and Hearts Reversible Tote

Newborn Gift Set

2011-04-27T15:40:00.004-05:00

I was trying to come up with something to make for my best friend, who is due with her second baby. A boy - which explains the difficulty, because I just don't sew boy stuff!

I finally came up with something - a little gift set. I stopped and purchased some material (I didn't want the baby blue stuff, so we settled on dinosaurs in primary colors) and I was able to make a pretty nifty little gift set for baby boy. Total cost was about $30. With that, I was able to make:

Soft, stuffed block
3'x2' quilted blanket
2 reversible bibs
2 burp clothes
A 1' x 8 inch mini-blanket with two loops for pacifiers and toys to attach to
Two stuffed animals
Shirt with tie on the front

She said she really liked it at her shower, and I hope her little one does, too! I am so excited for her ;) I love babies!

Someday Crafts
733
Twin Dragonfly Designs
Sew Much ADo
Blue Cricket Designs
My Backyard Eden
Creations by Kara
Tea Rose Home
Paisley Passions

Hello Kitty Tote Bag

2011-04-27T15:34:00.009-05:00

My daughter is a walking, talking, billboard for Hello Kitty. I'm starting to think they should pay us for walking around sporting Hello Kitty goods.

She's wanted a little Hello Kitty tote bag that we've seen at the store a few times lately, and I just can't bring myself to pay $24.99 for a tote bag. I thought that perhaps I could make something pretty similar and as it turns out, I was right!

She loves her bag, and carries all her - you guessed it - Hello Kitty stuff inside!

It was super easy. $2.00 worth of scrap material, some scrap sequined trim, and some felt. Cost probably $3.00 total to make.

The Cherry Dress

2011-04-27T15:30:00.001-05:00

I'm ready for spring! And part of that is, of course, getting some dresses made! And while I managed to sew my first zipper last year on an Easter dress, I still avoid it in terms of clothing.

So I brought one out, and decided to give it another go... and thankfully, it went better than I planned ;) (Sorry for the awful photos - but it's cold out, so she is wearing sweats and a t-shirt underneath)

I bought this material on clearance (was $9.99/yard, got it when the store was going out of business for 97 cents a yard!) and knew I wanted to make her a dress. I love how it turned out! I can't wait for this weather to clear up and warm up so we can actually wear it!

http://sewmuchado.blogspot.com/2011/05/we-did-it-wednesday_24.html

Easter, Part II - The creepy bunny head

2011-04-27T15:24:00.000-05:00

My son now loves sewing with me - and I love that he does! He likes to design things on his own, as well. When he wanted to sew something for Easter, I said, how about a stuffed bunny head? Alright, he said.

So we drew it out on felt, and cut out the pieces. We picked out some scrap fabric for the ears. And he picked out buttons for the eyes.

The thought behind it (it was for his sister) was very sweet...but the item itself turned out a bit creepy! Oh well - she LOVED her gift from her big brother. And he loved making it. It was a win-win night for all of us!

Easter, Part I - the Shirt

2011-04-27T15:21:00.006-05:00

My little girl is not quite 3, and she is already diva/fashionista material. The girl picks out her own clothes EVERY DAY. She requires pink, pink and more pink. She won't wear something she doesn't like, and she will remember for all eternity that she doesn't like it - the moment is not fleeting.

So I find it few and far between lately that she will wear something I make for her. Without bribery, that is. And yes, I do bribe. Candy will get you anything and everything with that kid, which is why I keep a supply of hershey kisses on hand. Now, I'm not saying I bribe daily, but when necessary, I'm not ashamed to say I beg and plead with chocolately goodness ;)

She didn't have an Easter shirt for her little Easter party, so I made her one the night before. And, since she refuses to wear hairbows lately...I put one on the bunny ;) Sneaky mama! She loved the shirt, and it's not so Easter-y that she can't just wear it all spring.

Bribery included, it took me FOREVER to get her to stand still for a photo. This was all I got, folks-

Hope you all had a GREAT Easter!

Someday Crafts
733
Twin Dragonfly Designs
Sew Much ADo
Blue Cricket Designs
My Backyard Eden
Easter Shirt
Tea Rose Home
Paisley Passions
The Creative Blogspot
It’s a Hodgepodge Life

Inspiring Creations
Sassy Sites
Fingerprints on the Fridge
It’s Fun to Craft
Crystal’s Craft Spot
Simply Designing

Rag Quilts - Preserving Memories

2011-04-27T15:15:00.002-05:00

I always feel so honored when someone asks me to make their children's clothing into a rag quilt or a blanket.

I've made some for myself and my kids (superguys here, shirts here, my mom's clothes here, and baby clothes here), but there is just this feeling of joy being asked to help someone preserve keepsakes. It's often followed by anxiety, as I worry about how/where to cut, because let's face it - these are little clothes. There isn't much room for error - and it is such a big responsibility, because these clothes are not something you can just get back - they are keepsakes someone has been saving, that they want to make into a blanket for their little one as a memory of their younger years.

Which is why I always feel honored!

So thank you little Kyle and mama Tina for letting me transform those baby clothes into a little blanket that Kyle can use as he grows, and pass on through his family.

The mess, as I was cutting

Aren't little clothes cute?!

I made him a little snuggly blankie from the scraps.

Made mama a rosette necklace from the scraps

And grandma received a rosette pin from the scraps ;)

Happy snuggling, Kyle!

Someday Crafts
733
Twin Dragonfly Designs
Sew Much ADo
Blue Cricket Designs
My Backyard Eden
Paisley Passions

Baseball Season is Here (which means cute cheerleading shirts)!

2011-04-27T15:07:00.000-05:00

Yes, it's baseball season for my favorite son. This is his second season playing, and he has the same coach -- all in all, he's very excited.

And I'm excited, because I love seeing him smile, AND it meant I got to sew my other little cutie a little cheerleading shirt.

Well, two. Becauase one is white, and going to get dirty realllllllly fast - and dirty where I probably won't be able to keep it white, lol!

So for your viewing pleasure (lol), here are the little cheerleader's outfits for baseball season, to support her big brother, #13!!

Shirt #1 - front

Back:

Shirt #2 (it was supposed to be circles like a baseball but...well, it looked so much better in my head)

And of course, a matching green hairclip

Happy baseball season, everyone!

Allie ;)

20% Discount - I love Sales!!

2011-04-26T10:02:00.000-05:00

Like sales too? Use the coupon code BRINGonSPRING for 20% off everything in Prose Boutique!
Lots of great items, like these:

And much more!

And I have a new tutorial to post tomorrow...very excited!

Saving "Lion"

2011-04-07T22:08:00.001-05:00

I'd be embarrassed to tell you how much money I've spent over the years buying Build-A-Bears and other various toys, waiting for my son to find "the one" that he will treasure forever. I know not every kid has one, but I still have this doll my mom got me when I was so young, and I guess (oddly) I just wanted that for my son, too.

Well guess what? All those build and bears and toys have been played with for an hour or a week and then tossed aside. About two years ago though, we went to a pizza place for a rehearsal dinner for my dad's wedding, and inside the pizza place was one of those claw machines. One of his cousins won a stuffed lion, which she gave to my son, and he was so excited - the same way he was with all of those other toys I've bought him.

Except that lion apparently made the cut that none of the others did.

For two years now, he's snuggled that thing. This cheap little toy that cost 50 cents to win has been his pride and joy - which just goes to show again that it isn't money that brings us happiness, but the thought and the love behind something that is what truly matters.

He also gave him a very valiant name: Lion. That's right - we tend to name things what they are around here, ha!

Almost a year ago, Lion's leg fell off. It wasn't a surprise, because those claw machine toys are pretty cheap. Every couple months I come across the leg and put it somewhere for safekeeping, so that I can reattach it. And in the meantime, my little one has just played with (and slept, and cuddled, and carried) a three-legged lion. Wouldn't you think that by now I'd have reattached that leg, considering I sew and I have an etsy store even?? I'm ashamed to say I didn't!

Tonight though, we got Lion, we got the leg, and we did a little early evening surgery, followed by lots of cuddly love.

Nothing makes me happier than seeing my kids smile. Sigh. It's a good day ;)

Photo Collage Wall

2011-04-03T23:43:00.002-05:00

I've always wanted a photo wall, but I've been far too scared to try it! Since we were going to paint our walls anyway (the ones that lead upstairs) I thought I might as well try it, because we can putty and paint over the mistakes (wrongfully placed nail holes) before we paint. And then I could experiment with the layout.

Normally, this would be where I tell you all about how I laid out plans for the photo wall. How I took inventory of all my frames, drew out the design on paper, rearranged, erased, rewrote, etc. And then how I painstakingly nailed each nail and arranged each frame.

Except I didn't do any of that ;)

Just like my sewing, I don't do patterns or line things up beforehand. I wing it. I know - it absolutely drives people insane that I do this, but I'm sorry, it's just how I operate!!

So that's what I did. Gathered up all my framed photos, put them against the wall, and one by one picked one up and arranged it on the wall, drove in the nail, and hung it.

I don't know how it worked out so well, but it did. It almost scares me because I had no planning at all.

There were a few errant nail holes, but not many. Now we will paint next weekend and I'll be a very happy camper!

Before: (Please note that close up are several lines of crayon, courtesy of the kiddos, lol)

After:

Linking to:

Night Owl Crafting
Bargain Shopping Paradise
Someday Crafts
Blue Cricket Design
My Girlish Whims

New Orleans - I love this city!

2011-04-03T23:36:00.000-05:00

Since I mentioned in my previous post about my trip to New Orleans, I thought perhaps I would share some pictures becauase I'm now nostalgic about it ;)

House Decorating - Finally, a Grown-Up Living Room!

2011-04-03T23:31:00.001-05:00

Even though I'm northwards of 30 now, I still feel like I live in a college kid's house. The only decorations we really had were pictures. I don't have that decorator style. But I promised myself that 2011 would be my year. Up first: the living room.

The decorating has to correspond to two very important aspects:
1) Cannot be expensive
2) Cannot be pictures.

Now, I can still have pictures in my room, but I've decided that 80% of my decorating must not be photos ;)

I stopped at Hobby Lobby and they had 50% off of wall decor. I strolled and strolled...for over an hour. I just couldn't decide. So I happened on over to the 90% off area...and found some great steals. First: Three vase-type decorations that were $3.59 each, marked down from $39.99 each. Deal!

Second, I found a glass bowl that was beautiful. I'll show you that when I finish my dining room, because that's where it went. But it was also $3.59 down from $39.99.

I also saw two crosses in this section for $1.49 each, down from $14.99 each. And both had the fleur de lis, and that's when it hit me - I knew how I wanted to decorate!

Last year, my husband and I and a friend went to New Orleans and I fell in love with the city. That has never happened to me before. Yes, I've liked my vacation spots but for some reason, I just love New Orleans. The food, the history, the architecture, the people...it was all so wonderful and I cannot wait to go back. And I thought, why not bring a little bit of that into my home?

So I put the two crosses in my cart, along with a picture frame (minus the glass) that was in the clearance section - $2.99 down from $24.99.

I headed back over to the wall decor and found two long canvases, one that had a set of drums painted on it and one with a guitar. They were in the colors of my living room as well - red, tan and black. Perfect! They would represent for me the jazz and the music that is in New Orleans. It's everywhere down there, and it's beautiful. These were $19.98 down from $39.99.

I also found a big metal Fleur De Lis and grabbed that, too. It was $5.99 down from $10.99.

Grand total: $62.39 for the living room decor. Cost would have been without discounts: $265.91 - so I saved $203.52!! I couldn't use any coupons because everything I bought was on sale, but honestly, I was pretty happy with the savings!

Not bad - I anticipated $100. That was the budget I set per room.

So without further ado, I'm very excited to unveil the new look ;)

Before:

After:

Before:

After:

(The candlesticks were .99 each from Goodwill, the basket was 1.99 from Goodwill - and they are all items I already had)

Thanks for peeking!

Allie

Purses and more Purses!

2011-04-03T23:03:00.000-05:00

Hmmm....well, the best way to say this is: My name is Allie, and I am addicted to purses. And shoes. I really, really am. My husband is threatening to start giving away purses when I buy a new one. Which means I need to find new places to hide them, bwahahahaha!

Here are two new ones I've sewn. However, these are for my store, Prose Boutique, and not for me. Sigh. But I can always recreate them, right? :)

Little Girl's Salmon and Brown Sundress & Accessories

2011-04-03T22:59:00.000-05:00

Another little girl's sundress that I made for my shop, Prose Boutique! My little supermodel loves putting these dresses on to model them. Of course, she wanted to keep her jeans on with it. She's very fashion forward ;) She's also in love with purses, so I had to make her a few of her own!

Bib Necklaces - how I love crafting them!

2011-04-03T22:52:00.002-05:00

I am having too much fun creating these bib necklaces for Prose Boutique! So easy to make, and you can use just scraps of fabric. And I just happened to find a great necklace on sale for $2, with about 30 strands of chain that I could use on the necklaces. It was a match made in heaven ;)

Happy necklace crafting!

Polka Dot and Swirl Halter Dress & Accessories

2011-04-03T22:47:00.002-05:00

I've been busy, busy busy! Sewing up a storm for my new little boutique, Prose Boutique! I was worried it would be a mistake, but I can honestly say it's so much fun to create things for. Plus - it keeps me crafting and I LOVE that.

Tonight I created this little dress, which I am almost sad I'm not keeping! I keep telling myself I have enough material to make another one for my little one. I was just pretty proud how this turned out.

Have a great day, everyone!

Allie

"FAMILY" Blocks

2011-03-31T10:14:00.002-05:00

It's amazing what a little paper, wood, and chalkboard paint can do! I was able to whip up some blocks in no time, thanks to the hubster cutting them all manly-like out in the garage ;)

I made two sets, and put one for sale on Etsy and kept one all for myself! I love the whimsical touch they add to the room, and they also added more colors into the rooms color palette for me to work off of!

Plus, I love being able to write special messages on the back for the people I love ;) Here's the other set I made:

Have a great day!

Allie

Pink and Black Bib Necklace

2011-03-31T10:10:00.001-05:00

I LOVE bib necklaces - I really do - because they are a bright touch to a casual outfit that kind of dresses it up. Throw a few pearls on and ta-da, you've got an awesome little touch of color.

I made two last night, for my Etsy store. The pink and black one, and a red and black one. I tell you - I've been crafting away, but after putting all the pictures up over there, I've been too much of a slacker to repost over here, but I'll post some of the projects in the next couple weeks.

Have a great day!

Allie

The Charlotte Pillow

2011-03-31T10:01:00.000-05:00

I know a little fashionista who is destined to be a designer someday. She came up with the idea that I should make pillows, because everyone loves pillows, she says. So last night I gathered up my supplies, and thanks to my hubby snapping a pic of a cute pillow at a store he delivers to, I had an idea in mind for one.

Thus, the Charlotte Pillow was created and listed in my Etsy store, Prose Boutique. It's 10x10, and has a cute, black, layered flower on the front. Turned out pretty good for my first pillow ever! Now let's just see if pillows actually sell!

Have a great day!

Allie

Introducing...My New Etsy Store!

2011-03-30T14:12:00.001-05:00

I am VERY excited to announce that ... I now have an Etsy store! I have been sewing so much, especially as gifts, and people were asking when I was planning to open a store...so I did ;)

Introducing - Prose Boutique!

My Etsy Store - Prose Boutique - www.proseboutique.etsy.com
Find me on Facebook
Follow me on Twitter: @ProseBoutique

See to the right of my page here? I've got the option to "Like" me on Facebook, and a stream of my Facebook posts, so you can see when I've added new items.

I'm giddy! And, as part of my celebration, through Monday I'm offering 15% off if you use the code GrandOpening - for right now, I'm only shipping U.S., until I get that aspect under control and a routine, and then I'll expand my horizons. Thanks again for being followers of my blog - it's very appreciated!

Have a GREAT day!

Allie

My second video - let's fight brain cancer!

2011-03-04T14:52:00.001-06:00

I made my second video ever, for my upcoming 5K in honor of my mom.

When it comes to brain cancer, we aren't given a choice. We are the patients, or the caretakers, or the friends and family who pray day by day for a cure. And sometimes, as in the case of my mom Dawn, a cure doesn't come - and that's when the hardest days come. If you're like me, you wonder what you can do, how you can help make sure that no one has to go through this someday. I realized after all the help ABTA had given me over the course of my mom's battle, supporting this event - and research towards a cure - was a simple way to honor of my mom, and my friend Amy's mom, Carolyn, who had also lost her battle.

The money I raise will help support the research and patient/family support programs of ABTA. I?ll be one of thousands participating that in this amazing and successful event. Here's our team page if you want to take a peek - my friend Amy also has an awesome video on the page about her mom.
Allie