Pretty Fun

Millyana's Birthday Extravaganza

2011-09-08T11:14:00.000-07:00

What is that saying?..."the best laid plans of mice and men..." Well, that was pretty much what happened with Millyana's birthday Extravaganza. I start really early with the planning and then BLAMO! Life happens. I won't even go into to detail all the crazy things that have happened in the past couple of months but it has truely been a doozy. I joked that Millyana's Birthday was slowly turning into a Birthday Extrav... And on the actual day of the party, setting up the decorations and food table, I felt like I was in one of those reality shows where you have certain amount of time and when they call "time's up!" it's hands off and it is what it is. But it was still perfect and wonderful and so much fun. I still cannot believe she is a year old. Holey mackeral.

Here are a ton of pictures to show how bright and fun her birthday was. I did pretty much all of the baking a decorating and while it did not save on time (or my insanity) it did save on money and I was able to have the exact look I wanted. Enjoy!

Test Run: Orange Dreamsicle Cupcakes

2011-08-11T08:02:00.001-07:00

I found the yummiest looking recipe at Cake. a super cute blog dedicated to parties. It has fun ideas and great recipes. One of the recipes was for Orange Creamsicle cupcakes. MmmmMMMM... I thought they would be the perfect fit for Millyana's birthday Extravaganza. I have never made a cake or cupcakes form scratch, so I did a test run the other night. It was also the first time I have attemepted to pipe any kind of icing of any kind. The icing kind of came out wonky but boy do they taste good. And I got a huge thumbs up from Dave who especially appreciated the fluff and butter filling. The original recipe can be found at Homemade by Holman

First Steps

2011-07-29T07:02:00.000-07:00

I have already started to prepare a few things for Millyana's Birthday. I know, I know, it is still over a month away. I just want to enjoy the experience and not have to rush at the last minute to get things done. Plus we have company coming in a couple of week. Hooray! My brother, Cody and his fiance, Ombretta are coming to town. It will be the first time I meet his super cutie Italian fiance. I just cannot wait.

Anyhoo, back to the party. Here is the color palette I am going with. Sunny yellows, orange, pinks with a splash of aqua. And another fun thing I found was a mold for little starfish candies. So sweet! So I have started to make an army of fun, orange starfish candies to put on cupcakes and around her smash cake. The mold only has two so I can only make two at a time. See why I started early?

The true inspiration

2011-07-26T04:51:00.000-07:00

I still cannot believe Millyana is going to be a year old! Here are a couple of pictures of our sweet girl and the true inspiration for this Birthday Extravaganza!

1st Birthday Inspiration

2011-07-24T18:19:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe our little girl is going to be one year old in just a couple of months! I love this print from Mary Englebreit and Millyana loves the water and swimming so I am going to use this for my inspiration. I want to do a sunny theme with lots of red, orange and yellow. Stayed tuned for more Birthday Extravaganza planning!

Mocha Monday

2010-04-05T04:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Mocha Monday everyone!

1. Mid Century Percolator-snappyshop

2. Coffee Maker Toys Crochet Pattern-skymagenta

3. coffee maker-cplummerart

4. Mosaic tiled percolator-TinaKauffman

5. Retro Coffee Pot on Antique Silver chain-minusone

2010-04-02T15:18:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love free?! Here are some shops offering FREE shipping on certain items. Be sure to check the shop for valid dates and restrictions.

1. Mushroom Fairy House-cels81

2. Muppets Beaker and Bunsen mini stud earrings-CharlieCarter

3. I Love That You Are My Friend-peace crane greeting-peacecranegreetings

4. i love beards resin bottle cap-trashrags

5. Retro Radical Rocket Stroller Blanket-whimzeebaby

Thread Thursday

2010-04-02T14:31:00.000-07:00

I love to cross stitch. I find it so relaxing, the rythmic criss crossing of the embroidery floss.

1. Mister Hola completed cross stitch-andwabisabi

2. Hi Bears cross stitch pattern-penguinandfish

3. Reading the Stars-MiniatureRhino

4. Cross stitched magnet frame-yaelfran

5. Punk Matryoshka-DefiantDamsel

Word Wednesday

2010-03-31T20:31:00.000-07:00

Slightly naughty Word Wednesday. Be warned...=)

1. Bad Bunny Slut Bobby Pin set-trixiedelicious

2. F*CK YEAH Leather belt-RadCow

3. Don't Make Me Bitch Slap You-RiverCityArtWorks

4. I suck I'm sorry-embellishedink

5. Crap Sorry I forgot your birthday card-notmoira

Tuesday, Turquoise and...

2010-03-30T05:05:00.000-07:00

White.

1. Teal Blossom Pillow-joom

2. Frosted Snowbell Hair Pins-MiaBeads

3. Fluffwidget Handmade Plush Toy-bubbletime

4. Flora (Turquoise) Print-meArtDesign

5. 7 Groomsmen Microfiber Ties-toybreaker

Mocha Monday

2010-03-29T05:43:00.000-07:00

I already a cupboard full of coffee mugs but would love to add these to my collection.

1. Mr. Darcy Proposal Mug-WrappedInLove (Who wouldn't want to start the day with the romance of whimsy of the love affair between the headstrong Elizabeth and the reserved Mr. Darcy.)

2. Flower Mug in Blue-kimwestad

3. Coffee Cup Cozy-natayla1905 (Not technically a mug but love it! Especially since I always seem to burn my hands on my mug when I make tea.)

4. Left Handed Pottery Mustache Mug-AnnMariesPottery (Alright, I don't have either of these but how considerate that this artist would make a mug not only for a left handed coffee drinker but a left handed coffee drinker who has a mustache!)

5. Heart Carved Into a Tree-TwistedRiverClay

Stuff I am Working On Saturday

2010-03-27T13:12:00.001-07:00

So here are a couple of things I am working on. First one is a Wristlet that I am making out of some fabric I have had for a long time! I actually bought it before I really knew how to sew but it was one of those patterns I just had to have. I loved the mint color of the background and who can resist paper lanterns and the little Chinese flats?! And it was one of those fabrics that I fell in love with and just could not bring myself to cut up. Is that crazy or do other fabric lovers do that to? Get attached to fabric so that they can't make anything out of it unless it is the perfect project? it could just be me. (Shrug)

The other thing I was working on today is banana nut muffins. Yummy! I had three bananas that were beyond ripe and I thought it was such a waste to just throw them away. So I skimmed through my Betty Crocker Cookbook and found a super easy recipe for these muffins. And they are pretty good. They are a tad dry but butter fixes that right up!

Here is the recipe if you would like:

3 medium ripe bananas, mashed up

3 tbsps vegetable oil

1 large egg

1/3 c sugar

2 c Bisquick original baking mix

1/2 cup raisinsor chopped nuts

1. Heat oven to 400 degrees. Grease bottoms only of 12 medium muffin cups or line paper baking cups.

2. Beat bananas, oil, egg and sugar in large bowl until well blended. Stir in baking mix and raisins just until baking mix is moistened (batter will be lumpy). Divide batter evenlyamong muffin cups.

3. Bake about 15 minutes or until golden brown. Cool muffins in pan 5 minutes; remove from pan wire rack. Serve warm if desired.

Yum! Enjoy!

Free Friday

2010-03-26T07:05:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love free?! Here are some shops offering FREE shipping on certain items. Be sure to check the shop for valid dates and restrictions.

1. Sophia Rosette Headband-HandMadeParade

2. Aqua Twig Bracelet-sweetfindings4you

3. Hobo Sluch Bag-fromnancy

4. Blue Hue Flower Garden Necklace-MissLadysmith

5. Sunset/Dandelion-JaredKS

Thread Thursday

2010-03-25T05:18:00.000-07:00

There are sooooo many beautiful handspun yarns out there! it kind of makes me want to learn to knit. Just don't tell that to the dozens of other projects I have started and didn't finsh in my sewing closet.

1. Emberglow-whirlwend

2. Spazzy Snazz-yoknits

3. Beaded Happy Green-windrose

4. Tiger Lily Wine-SpringTreeRoad

5. Sleeping Bear Dunes-coolclimates

Word Wednesday

2010-03-23T18:43:00.000-07:00

1. Altered Composition Notebook-zany

2. Mini Sticky Coverup-shamsandcoverups

3 Awkward faces-Note pad-sloeginfizz

4. The Scrap Notebook-missindie

5. Eye Candy Scrapbook-crabappledesigns

Tuesday, Turquoise and

2010-03-23T04:52:00.000-07:00

Red!

I think I am coming to the realization that I love any color paired with turquoise!

1. Heart to Heart-saraprettyfun

2. Modern Paisley Necklace-DestinysCreations

3. Magnet set ASIAN 1-BellDesign

4. Girl With Red Hair Print-MultiplePersonality

5. Spring Fling Earrings-Beadinbabe

Mocha Monday

2010-03-22T05:11:00.000-07:00

Oo boy. I really slacked off this weekend and didn't get posts up for Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Well, it's a new week, so let's just get started with the new Mocha Monday.

I think baby is starting to rebel against Starbucks decaf mochas. Didn't feel so great after the one I had on Friday. Isn't it weird how, while you are pregnant, things just don't always taste the same? Stuff you loved before all of a sudden goes on the back burner. I haven't had major cravings yet, but I have a feeling they will be starting soon.

This Mocha Monday is dedicated to the decaf coffee I had from McDonald's yesterday that was suprisingly delicious.

1. Appalchian Ridge Blend Coffee-katherynmd

2. Caffe Latte Luscious Lip Balm-dennisanderson

3. Coffee Necklace Charm-TickleMePinkBoutique

Thread Thursday

2010-03-18T05:31:00.000-07:00

Here are some beautiful crochet picks from Etsy. Enjoy!

1. Bib Style Necklace-nezjewelry

2. Spring Bracelet/No163-ByMarianneS

3. Little Apple Tree Crocheted Earrings-FebystanDesigns

4. Orange Silk Crocheted Hoops-TaniaNovaCrochet

5. Handmade Ornate CrochetWheels-ArtCraftBoutique

Word Wednesday

2010-03-17T05:05:00.000-07:00

1. Fabric Scrap Pendant-Scrapopolis

2. Simple Sentiment Drop Necklace-SissyPretties

3. Nursery Art Print for Boy or Girl-BarkingBirdArt

4. Dreamer Sterling Leather Cuff Bracelet-underhercharm

5. I heart Etsy Print-RighteousLens

Tuesday, Turquoise and...

2010-03-15T18:02:00.000-07:00

Orange!

I love this color combo right now. It's just so bright and cheerful.

1. Mugs-LynnCardwellPottery

2. I Like Your Bow-Belleandboo

3. Baby Blanket-olivesbranch

4. Baby Feet-Announcements-Sweetharvey

5. Paris Collection, Gigi-Olivialsabella

Mocha Monday

2010-03-15T08:52:00.000-07:00

I have been missing my Rasberry Mocha fixes form Starbucks since I have been pregnant. Oh sure, I order decaf ones but they just don't taste quite the same. So in honor of my craving, here are some yummies from Etsy inspired by mocha.

1. Pretty in Pink Teacup (we'll pretend it's coffee) Necklace -dirtroadsouth

2. Vice-Sugar Scrub-gloilocksnbody

3. Hand embroidered Thread Balls-julieandco

4. Chocolate Brown Rose Earrings-sweetsimple

5. Chenile Baby Toddler Blanket-peanuttree

Blustery Day

2010-03-14T05:48:00.000-07:00

Pretty Fun has been out to the Sanford Farmers Market the past two Saturdays. This past Saturday was really windy and it would just whip up something fierce every few minutes. So I knew I was not going to set up my wobbly tent which was okay because it hasn't been too hot and being in the sun actually felt wonderful. But I did know that I had about a hundred little packaged items that I would need to be chasing all over the place if I didn't set up my booth just right. So, to the rescue!! A hundred clothspins I had bought at the dollar store a while back and I keep with my craft booth stuff. It worked out awesome and there were only a couple of times that I had to chase a rogue Ribbon Bracelet that wiggled its way out of a clothespin. Yea, I am pretty much the McGyver of craft booth setting up. And I am so glad I did not set up my tent as I saw a few, higher quality tents go air born. One large one that flew into a tree and ripped. Yikes!

I should be out at Sanford Market again next Saturday, weather permitting. It's a cute market in Historic Downtown Sanford. It runs form 9a-2pm. Lots of food and crafts.

Whew!

2010-02-27T06:13:00.000-08:00

Let me tell you, the past 4-5 months just flew by! I cannot believe it is the end of February already! So much has happened, I don't even know where to begin. First, I participated in Rock n Roll Craft Show in Novemeber and Big Ass Indie Craft Show in December. While I wasn't there, I wish i could have been. They are always so much fun. Then in January, both of my brothers, sister-in-law, two nephews and our friend Adam came to visit. So much fun but it was a whirlwind! plus it was cold here in Florida, 30s to 40s which is just ridicuous. In fact, Adam ran the Disney Half Marathon and when he started in the wee hours of the morning, it was snowing! We had such a blast! I can't wait until everyone comes down to visit again.

Now that things have settled down a bit, I will be posting updates more frequently. So stay tuned!

Strangefolk 2009

2009-10-06T19:39:00.000-07:00

Strangefolk Festival was a huge success! It was my third year in a row and hopefully that is just the start of many Strangefolks for me. I always have so much fun and meet the nicest artists. On Saturday I did have to shut down for about an hour because fo the rain. But it gave me the perfect opportunity to visit and shop! I stopped by to see Ginger ofBeyond Design and swapped some of my ribbon bracelets for some of her necklaces. She was my neighbor during my first year and has the cutest jewelry and cards. She specializes in awesome in custom invitations that are super creative and fun.
I also saw Denise who created First Born Studios. She had adorable pom poms and she is the queen of cute garland. Visiting her booth is always a super treat because she puts together paper, felt and fabric in ways that are so fun and cheerful. Her blog is always place to visit with a cup of coffee.

So next September, if you are in the St. Louis metro East are, come by and see all of these great artists!

New Purse Style!

2009-10-02T07:00:00.000-07:00

I am so excited about this new purse style! It is very roomy, about 17" wide 13" high with a pocket on the inside. I love being able to put together three different fabric patterns and colors to give it a patchy feel. Plus, I am so in love the pleats! Too cute! (If my Mom could see me now getting excited about pleats. I am sure she is laughing at me.) And I am going to start using my old t-shirts to make this style of bag. I know it will turn out awesome and I will be able to use up my growing collection of t-shirts I just can't bring myself to throw away. Thanks for looking!

Clean Workspace!

2009-06-26T18:21:00.000-07:00

Finally straightened up my sewing room! It was a disaster. We had so many visitors in the past couple of months and "cleaning" started turing into "shove everything in the closet" But now it is tidied up again. Everything (or most everything) is in it's assigned drawer where I can find it. I love, love, love to see other crafters workspace so I posted some pictures of mine in trade of pictures of others. We shall see! here are some other artist's workspaces I have come across in other blogs:

http://midgesmind.blogspot.com/2009/04/out-of-old-into-new.html
http://tamdoll.blogspot.com/search?q=workspace
http://www.flickr.com/photos/rikcat/121944810/in/set-72157594184694748/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/rikcat/121927081/in/set-72157594184694748/
http://parkablogs.com/content/creative-workspaces-and-home-offices
http://www.craftstylish.com/item/5516/show-me-your-workspace

1 year anniversary!

2009-06-26T18:00:00.000-07:00

Dave and I just passed our one year anniversay of living in Florida. I still can't believe we are here and cannot believe it has been a year already. It was kind of bumpy begining but we are really starting to settle in. I do get homesick for a few things; free museums, the smaller town feel of Kirkwood, hills and trees... But they have been replaced by other things that I would miss if we ever left here; palm trees, the ocean, colorful houses, seashells, Disneyworld...My all time favorite thing that I absolutely love and in awe of everday here in florida is the clouds, especially at sunset. Almost every day there is a spectacular display worthy of a standing ovation. Words cannot even describe what it's like to stand under these formations. Pictures barely give them any kind of justice. So if you are ever in central Florida, don't forget to look up.

Washington Oaks Garden State Park

2009-04-28T13:20:00.000-07:00

I have been searching for tidal pools in Florida. After a long search on the internet I am starting to suspect there aren't any which is crazy. There has to be some! But in my travels through the world wide web, I stumbled on Washington Oaks Gardens Sate Park. While we didn't find any tide pool, we did find a beautiful garden with Spanish Moss covered trees and a beautiful beach view with interesting rock formations.

Washington Oaks Gardens is just a bit south of St. Augustine. We walked through the gardens for a little bit but were more interested in checking out the beach side. Across the street is the beach where there are beautiful coquina rock formation. The beach is made up of beautiful crushed orange shells. Pelicans and sea gulls flewback and forth over the stretch of beach. A very beautiful park.

One of My Favorite Things

2009-04-28T12:51:00.000-07:00

I of my favorite things about moving to Central Florida is the Spanish Moss covered trees. That's all for this blog.

Another giveaway!

2008-09-05T08:18:00.000-07:00

It's a giveaway for beautiful cards made with Amy Butler designs. So pretty!

http://lemondropstudio.blogspot.com/2008/08/its-giveaway-time.html

Girls! Girls! Girls!

2008-09-05T07:35:00.000-07:00

Serpentine Braids by beeskneesindustries

Kai by NoosedKitty

The Lady of Shalott by MissAvacado

Reason #1 you should go to Strangefolk

2008-09-02T16:07:00.000-07:00

MATTY8080 will be there!!! Alright, if you don't know who Matty8080 is, he has awesome prints of animals, people and ZOMBIES! I bought some zombie prints for my brother (which I have told him about but not given them to him until he has an actual house someday.) And for myself, I bought the "Property of...I Am Totally Rad" tiger poster, which I have attached to my sewing machine cover. Very exciting.

So this is reason #1, if you are in the St. Louis, metro East area, you need to go to Strangefolk.

Mermaid Monday

2008-08-31T18:13:00.001-07:00

Sirene by AFancifulTwist
Summer Deep Sea Redhead Mermaids Coconut Rose Handmade Soap-BubblesVarietyShop
Last Call Black Tee-Tsai-fi
MERMAID With Wings - Limited Edition-MaryMakiRae
Frankenstein Carrying a sexy Pinup Mermaid Holder-SweetHeartSinner

Shopping!!!

2008-08-29T17:18:00.000-07:00

Alright, I went ahead and did it. I bought these great bookmarks from pairabirds. Yes, yes the same pairabirds I featured in my last post. They were only $5 so I don't feel too guilty spending money, being unemployed and all. And I get five! They are going to look great hanging on my bulletin board above my sewing machine. When we finally move into our new place.

Dreaming of a Place of Our Own

2008-08-29T07:04:00.000-07:00

The days of staying with my in-laws seems to be coming (very slowly) to an end. Dave and I have been looking at apartment after apartment since we have to time to be picky. NowI daydream of how we (I) am going to decorate it so this blog is dedicated to pretties to hang on the wall.

From top to bottom:

Plummage-the pair a birds I love the simplicity of her artwork. (Is simplicity a bad word to use to describe art?)

Chimneys In Dublin-artquirk This artist will even do a painting of your house!

San Francisco Letterpress Print-labpartners Letterpress and gocco + San Francisco=Awesome.

Umbrella's In the Rain- Kecky My new favorite artist! Her artwork is very influenced by Disney animation and she works at Disney! Her profile even ends with, "Have a Magical Day!" AND she will even do a custom cartoony picture of you! I have a feeling I will be investing in that soon. I am so cheesy.

Butterflies In Her Hair-7seventeengallery I have a feeling I am going to buy this one.

Big E

2008-08-27T08:24:00.001-07:00

So I am missing my nephew a little bit (okay a lot) so here is a cute picture of him. I cannot wait to see him next month. It is going to be slumber party heaven. When I was telling my other younger brother how much fun it was going to be to spend time with Ethan and how it was going to be like a slumber party, he groaned and said, "Please don't dress him up in girls clothes and take pictures." You see, he is referring to when we were both a lot younger and I would dress him up in my doll clothes. My brother is 8 years younger than me so when I was around 10 he was 2 and like a living doll to me and my friends. And there are pictures documenting this. We don't seem to know where they are though. Hopefully they don't get in the wrong hands. My brother is going to kill me for posting this.

Another pretty shop

2008-08-27T07:39:00.000-07:00

The the avatar of bluembrownlee's myspace page is what really caught my eye. It is a pendant made with a real Madagascar Sunset Moth wing. The pendant pictured above is made with a Monarch Butterfly's wing.

But don't worry about them being made from real butterfly wings. I found in her shop this assurance:

"All of my wings are gathered from butterflies and moths that have lived out their natural lifespan and have not been harmed. They are collected after passing on from natural causes from farms that raise butterflies and support local communities instead of capturing and harming wild butterfly populations!"

Rooting through myspace

2008-08-26T18:57:00.001-07:00

So I was bored the yesterday and started going through all of my "friends" on myspace. And what did I discover? A lot of amazing art and jewelry! For example, this amazing jewelry by Magenta Tarantula. It is incredibly unique, not like anything I have seen before. The skulls and polished stones used look rustic and delicate all at the same time. If you are in San Diego, CA you can find her work at Neighborhood Boutique. Anyone else interested, it seems you can contact her through myspace.

Cute stuff in the mail!

2008-08-26T18:36:00.000-07:00

Last week I entered in a contest on Bagladee's Blog It was for a whole package of cute stuff like a zipper pouch and stickers. Well, I was the first prize winner! Yay! Now a package is on it's way to me from Nottingham, UK. Emma, has a beautiful shop full of purses and pouches. I can tell we have the same passion for fabric. She has also launched a new website. Go check it out!

Alright, I'm putting this out there...

2008-08-25T09:24:00.001-07:00

I want to sell 100 items from my shop by Sept 1st. That is only 12 more items to reach that goal. Only 12 more items...
(imagine me squinting right now and trying to use jedi mind tricks to magically make sales happen in my shop.)

Another Fun Contest

2008-08-20T19:32:00.001-07:00

Go check it out!

Win Free Undies!

2008-08-20T15:02:00.000-07:00

So I wanted to help promote this cute shop Small Threads Daily and their contest to win free undies! (Okay, so promoting it would help me get more entries into the contest, too but they would look so cute on my nephew!) I am really diggin' the vacaction set and the mermaid/tattoo diaper bag.

And check out this really cute video filled with fun stitched plushies! I want to visit that world.

Bought my plane ticket!

2008-08-19T07:12:00.000-07:00

Last night I bought my plane ticket for St. Louis to participate in Strangefolk! Yay! A weekend of friends, family and crafts!!! Seriously what could be better. I did have the difficult task of telling my dad that I was going to be staying with my brother at least part of the time. I don't think he was too thrilled with that but I can't wait to spend some awesome one-on-one time with my nephew Ethan and meet my new nephew, Garrett.

Another bonus about that weekend is my other brother, Cody will be in town too. He is going to be my chauffeur for the weekend. (Not sure if he knows that yet or not.) He did volunteer to help me with the craft show though. So crafty ladies, the handsome military man with me at my booth is single.

Family and friends: My plane tickets are for Friday the 26th morning and I fly out Tuesday the 30th midafternoon. Yay! Right now, Dave is not coming with me but we will see if that changes.

New Fabric!!!

2008-08-17T09:12:00.000-07:00

So I really shouldn't consider myself unemployed. I have been cranking out purses like crazy. I am gearing up for Strangefolk in September and Rock n Roll Craft Show (hopefully) in November. Yesterday, since I did so well at the Caffe Market in Deland, I stocked up on some great fabric. Here is a preview of some awesome purses to come!

Anna Maria Island

2008-08-13T18:09:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago, Dave and I went to the cutest Gulf Coast beach area, Anna Maria Island off of Tampa. It was so super cute with short little multi-colored houses squished onto this island. I wanted to take pictures but a picture just wasn't going to do this place justice. We went to the beach but it was raining so we just walked up and down the beach. More cute houses crowded the edge of the coast and when we stepped in the shallow water, little bity multi-colored shell fish dug themselves deeper into the sand. That was a little disturbing yet fascinating all at the same time.

We stopped at coffeeshop/cafe/consignment/gift shop. This place had a cafe with smoothies and coffee drinks and pastries baked fresh there. The shop was crammed with antiques, art, gifts and these amazing handmade shell chandeliers. I wanted one so bad but with a hefty pricetag of $400, all I can have is a picture of it. I had a yummy coconut banana smoothie and an apricot scone. Notice the awesome 1930s antique bamboo aquarium behind Dave. I want that too.

Highlands Hammock State Park

2008-08-13T07:06:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago we went to the Highlands Hammock State Park near Sebring, FL. It was beautiful with big mossy trees and a windy boardwalk trail through some swampy area. Along the trail, the trees were so pretty coming out of the water which reflected to make it look like stretched into oblivion. As we were walking along one section of the trail, we walked up on some baby alligators. They were only about a foot and a half long and just sat and watched us as we watched them.

Alice In Wonderland

2008-04-01T20:16:00.001-07:00

Preview for MelissasMagicSpot. Hope you like it!

New beaded necklaces

2008-03-31T19:14:00.000-07:00

I have been neglecting my beads for a while now. I decided it was about time I littered the living room with them. Here are a couple that I have listed and a couple of sneak peeks.

When fabric takes over the house

2008-03-30T20:46:00.001-07:00

I can't believe I am sharing these pictures. I have a perfectly functional craft room but sometimes stuff just spills out into the living room while I am working. Especially when I am too lazy to clean up the sewing room. Have bins of fabric, will travel.

WOODensday

2008-03-12T09:35:00.000-07:00

See Horse-Sea Horse

2008-03-10T18:38:00.000-07:00

Learning the Art of Screen Shots

2008-02-26T08:32:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day

2008-02-14T20:13:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentine's Day everybody! Show some love to Bees Knees Industries who made this super cute print.

Indie Valentine

2008-02-10T08:02:00.000-08:00

Hopefully you bought your sweetie some goodies at Indie Valentine last week! It was such a fun time and there were so many beaautiful things to choose from. Flowers of Araby performed and it was so crowded, Deserae had to perform on the counter. it's always so much fun to watch them. A henna artist was painting tatoos in lightening fast time. I wish I didn't have to wear short sleeves to work or I would have gotten one. And Cooperella has the best coffee, even better than Starbucks, and that is saying a lot for me. Please give it a try. So, thanks STL Craft Mafia for hosting another fun indie craft event.

Imaginary Friends Rule

2008-02-09T20:39:00.000-08:00

ouou makes you wonder why you never thought of how awesome it would be to have monsters as pets.

2008-01-27T08:05:00.000-08:00

Someone needs to buy something from me

2008-01-24T07:12:00.000-08:00

So I can get this for my laptop. A total non need, but it is so awesome. I want it in "Road Side Stand Turquoise to go on my red laptop. It would be so sweet. Here is the shop.

Like a car wreck, with glitter and tassles...

2008-01-24T06:16:00.001-08:00

Found a website on stumble of the worst album covers. And they weren't kidding. Here are a few but once you go to the site, you will not be able to look away.

You must look at this blog

2008-01-20T08:46:00.000-08:00

So I stumbled across this shop and then tumbled across her blog. Both are very interesting in the way that the artist knows she is a teenager and therefore is prone to moodiness and whininess but owns it and goes with it. I can't imagine that she is that moody though because her plushies are very colorful.

Jors and Rust, Jors and Rust (that's in a sing song voice)

2008-01-20T07:01:00.000-08:00

Friday night was Russ Olson's book opening for "Jors and Rust" at Off-Broadway. "Jors and Rust" is a comic book full of characters like Jors and Rust and the adventures of Anchors Away. On display were original art panels from the book and the bands Bad Folk and the Monads performed. Good times. The book will be available Tuesday. A couple of places you can find it are Star Clippers and Subterranean Books.

That all sounded formal and nonpersonal, but you must buy it. Trust me.

Almost Valentines Day!

2008-01-11T19:59:00.000-08:00

I made this little bit of cuteness for Valentine's Day. I had to list it quick or I would have kept it for myself. It's one of kind (unfortunately.)

http://www.saraprettyfun.etsy.com/

New Toy

2008-01-02T15:17:00.000-08:00

Dave gave me a little digital camera for Christmas. I believe it was fairly inexpensive so not the greatest quality of pictures can be taken. But do not let that fool you into thinking I don't like the results. The finished picture looks like the cross between an old polaroid and a watercolor painting. Plus the viewfinder is kind of askew so you are never sure of what yo are going to get. Above are some of the pictures taken at Christmas.

Shhhh...

2008-01-02T10:06:00.000-08:00

Oh thank god. My nephew has finally fallen asleep for his nap. That doesn't always happen when I babysit and I feel bad when he hasn't taken his nap. I hear he gets into everything when he hasn't taken a nap for the day. Whew.
Had a great time in St. Charles with Cams from Seattle and her friend Amy. We really dilly dallied and only had time for lunch and one store. We ate at the winery where I had an okay sandwich and a good glass of wine. Then we hit Rock, Paper, Scissors where everything was 30% off! Yay! Spent almost all of my Christmas money on pretty paper and fun paper punches. That night we went to Pho Grand for dinner. Holy cow it is so good. They have the best spring rolls I have ever had.
For New Years, Dave, Jana, Kris and I went to Cafe Rebekah's for dinner. Deserae of Flower's of Araby was performing there so we went for dinner. Kris and I had yummy beef kabobs and Jana and Dave had gyros. Yum. Needless to say, I have spent a lot of money this past weekend on eating out. At least it has all been good food.
Happy New Year everybody!

Rockstar

2007-12-26T17:34:00.000-08:00

Dave and I were at Borders tonight. I was looking at the calendars when Dave came running up to me really excited. He had just seen a girl carrying one of my purses! How exciting! It was the Teela one that was sold at the Rock and Roll Craft Show.
Tomorrow my friend is in town and we are going to Rock, Paper, Scissors in St. Charles. www.rockpaperscissorsblog.blogspot.com I cannot wait. I have Christmas money and plan on stocking up on some cool papers. I hopr to run into Denise there, as well. http://firstbornstudio.blogspot.com/ She is always super sweet and so supportive at shows. Go check out her great blogs about the Rock and Roll Craft Show.

That camera is taking my soul

2007-12-14T22:04:00.000-08:00

My nephew is a funny little guy. You pull a camera on him and he just looks grimly into the camera. After you snap the shot, he is smiling and having a good time. I don't think he dislikes having his picture taken he eagerly poses for the camera. But he just stares blankly into the lens. Prime example above, first picture is his pose, the second is what he looks like after the picture is taken.

Rock n roll Craft Show

2007-12-11T21:00:00.000-08:00

The Rock n Roll Craft Show was the past weekend and, boy-o-boy, was it a good time. First off, it was at The Mad Art Gallery http://www.madart.com/, which was way cool. Crafters and artists had their work set up department store style and there was a lot of great goods to choose from. On Saturday night, I worked a two hour shift at teh jewelry booth, which was a huge mistake. I wanted to buy a little of everything! But I ended up buying for myself a really pretty collage necklace by La La Lori. It is really pretty. I don't have my digital camera so you are goign to just have to take my word for it. I also finally bought a couple of prints from Cate Anevski http://cateanevski.com/ I have been eyeballing her work for a while and now I have some for my own! Other things I bought are for presents so I can't mention them here. I ran into Denise of First Born Studios She is so nice and I am always amazed by her beautiful work. Her mixed media collages are awesome. While I was working, the band Gentlemen Auction House performed and a sock monkey walked around. I found out later the sock monkey is actually Matt Kindt, the Super Spy artist. http://mattkindt.blogspot.com/ It was exciting to realize he was there, let alone dressed like a huge sock monkey. I get star struck for local artist "celebrities." He had an awesome display set up in one the old jail cell, Mad Art Gallery is an old police station. It was tons of fun and I sold tons of stuff and I spent lots of money, so it was a good weekend. I can't wait until the next one. The next show I will (hopefully) be in is the St. Louis Craft Mafia show, Indie Valentine on Feb 2nd. See you there!

New Necklaces

2007-11-08T15:56:00.000-08:00

I have had these fabric pendants made for a while. They have just been sitting around because I just thought they needed something else. Well, I was at the craft store today and found a super cute owl charm and thought, "Aha! That's what it needs!" So I bought a couple of charms and added them to the pendants. I think they came out pretty cute. And I am glad to finally have them finished.

My new favorite shop on Etsy

2007-11-08T15:46:00.000-08:00

I bought the cutest cards from http://www.aspenbleu.etsy.com/. And the packaging was even cuter than the cards. I didn't want to open up the different packages of cards. They were too adorable. So I took pictures of them before I opened them. So please check out this shop, it is too cute to keep to myself.

More Strangefolk

2007-10-20T08:06:00.000-07:00

So I have found more pictures from Strangefolk. In fact, you can see all of them here http://www.flickr.com/groups/strangefolk/

Here is one with me hangiong out with an alien who wore one of my purses. And check out me selling to the crowds in the second one.

I applied for Rock and Roll Craft Show in December. Kepp your fingers crossed that I make it! Check out more info here: http://www.rocknrollcraftshow.com/

Something New!

2007-10-04T15:16:00.000-07:00

I made five new necklaces that came out so cute and pretty. I love it when I can imagine something in my head and the actual end product is as good if not better than the idea. Believe me, it does not always end happily ever after. Dave's mom again sent me more buttons which I love and have added to these necklaces. Some are very old, I can tell by the card they were on or just by looking at them. I wish I had a way to tell what year they are from. I just think it would add to the story of the necklace. I am going to try to make some differnt color ones tonight. If I can ever tear myself away from Etsy.

Blog about Blogs

2007-10-04T15:08:00.000-07:00

So I did a Google search of Saraprettyfun. I was just curious! And found this blog from one of my buyers and just thought it was so nice.
http://missficklemediacom.blogspot.com/2007/08/from-saraprettyfun.html
Missficklemedia has a wonderful shop of her own with so many beautiful necklaces and pendants. You should really check it out.

Ethan

2007-09-26T19:15:00.000-07:00

Nothing too exciting today with babysitting. Since it was kind of a dreary day outside, I took Ethan to the mall to play in the kids area. it was interesting to hang out with all of the moms asking me questions, like how old is he and when did he start to walk. I quickly learned that you answer the age questions in months, year and a half is not a sufficient answer.

Later on, we went to the Botanical Gardens again. We went to feed the Koi. Ethan was doing a good job tossing the food in while sitting at the edge of the pond. That was until the fish fought a little and caused a big splash. He cried and climbed all over me as I tried to stand up and not fall into the water. He was done feeding the Koi.

As we were leaving, he waved at all the people again and offered them the stick he had found.

Goodies from Strangefolk

2007-09-24T08:28:00.001-07:00

So I wanted to show off the beautiful things I got at Strangefolk. The Etsy t-shirt was made by Ginger of Serendipity. http://www.serendipity06.etsy.com/ She screen printed it and added sewn on leaves to the trees. Too cute! And I wore it all day. She also has beautiful unique necklaces with so much detail. I picked out a pretty blue and gold one and I am so in love with it.
During the show, I chatted with Denise, my neighbor behind me. http://www.deniselombardozzi.etsy.com/ Like I said in my last blog, her booth was so cute with paper chain garlands draped over it. I couldn't stop looking at it. I wish I had taken a picture of it. She had brooches clothespinned on a line in front of an old window pane. So creative! I knew I wanted one but couldn't pick out which one. Plus she had these felted cuffs with vintage buttons sewn on them and I couldn't decide which one I liked the best. I finally picked out one of each and I am so happy with them. They are so adorable!
It's a good thing I didn't have a chance to really walk around teh whole festival. I probably would have spent everything I made.

Blogs about blogs

2007-09-23T10:17:00.001-07:00

New favorite blogs
http://rockpaperscissorsnews.blogspot.com/
http://firstbornstudio.blogspot.com/

Strangefolk!!!!

2007-09-23T09:21:00.000-07:00

Strangefolk was yesterday and it was just as much fun as I had anticipated it would be! First of all, I was up until 2:30 am the night before finishing up purses! So I got 3 whole hours of sleep. But I sold every single one of the purses that I was working on so it was worth it! In fact, I sold a little of over half of my inventory! I think that is absolutely amazing! Okay I will stop using exclamation points, you get the excitement.

I lucked out with my spot because I was on the end as was able to set up a second table for all of my Scrapopolis merchandise and sneak in a rolling rack of http://www.dezigns.etsy.com/ merchandise. Plus the fortress style made a make shift dressing room for one person to try on the painty pants. And I was next to Ginger, of http://www.serendipity06.etsy.com/. She had been my support for the preparation of this show. Her emails everyday helped me be super prepared and keep my sanity. Plus, we agreed to trade stuff! So I got an awesome I love Etsy shirt to wear during the show and a beautiful necklace. I love it. And her table was so ultra cute and clean looking with little white tree stands holding her necklaces. Beautiful!

Plus I ended up swapping goodies with my other neighbor, Denise of http://www.deniselombardozzi.etsy.com/. I've said it a million times before, but I think one of the most rewarding things about Pretty Fun is the opportunity I get to meet so many other wonderful artists. And Denise is one of them. She is so nice and her work is so beautiful. Her table was set up so cute with paper ring garland made from recycled paper drapped all around and a vintage ironing board to hold some of her work. She is a mixed media collage artist and had a little of everything, cards, brooches, felted bracelets, all so pretty. I traded with her for a beautiful brooch and a felted bracelet embellished with beautiful vintage buttons. Another bonus about meeting Denise, was that she works at a specialty paper store called Rock, Paper, Scissors on Main St in St. Charles. Besides having awesome paper, they hold workshops that I am definitely going to be participate in. I can't wait!

Anyhoo, back to Strangefolk. It was so much fun and such and exciting experience. There were a steady amount of people through out the whole day. There were times at my table where it was difficult o take care of everybody. I had a line for people to pay! Like I said earlier, I sold all of my new purses and my origami gift boxes were a huge hit!

I didn't get to wonder around the whole festival because I was busy but I know there was a raffle and a couple of different workshops, and there was a presentation on making yarn out of Alpaca fur with actual Aplacas on dipslay. They were so cute with their mewing sounds they made. Etsy was there handing out free stuff and a wondering plastic alien that wore one of my purses as we posed for a picture together. I wish I myself had taken more pictures, but I get so wrapped up in all of the excitement, I forget to take a lot of pictures.

So if you did not make it this year, I definitely reccommend it for next year. Plus, next year it may be two days long! Whew!

Thanks to Dad and Kareen for stopping by and getting me lunch, who knows when I could have gotten it myself. My brother and Sister-in-law, Austin and Anna stopped by with a much needed caffiene fix in the form of a Coke. And Yay! for Jana and Kris stopping by and buying some stuff. Plus, I saw an old friend of mine, Kathy who is going to give me the hook ups on pakaging for mailing.

Now, I need to start getting ready for the Rock and Roll Craft Show http://www.rocknrollcraftshow.com/ that I wasn't sure I was going to participate in but after Strangefolk, I have changed my mind. I even had one customer scold me for even hesitating in participating in it. RRCS is two days long and the first week of December, so I need to start getting ready for that.

Babysitting Ethan

2007-09-23T08:19:00.000-07:00

Second week of babysitting and this time we went to the Missouri Botanical Gardens. I have lucked out both times babysitting. Last week at the zoo, I found out the Children's Zoo is free from 9am to 10 am and this week I found out that the Gardens are free to St Louis residents. Wahoo!

We started the morning with a quick stop at World's Fair Donuts. Best donuts I have ever had. I would swear on my life they are the best cake donuts in the world. And one of the cheapest places to get donuts. I got two donuts, a coffe, and an orange juice for $2.60! It's just a little shop about a block away from the Botanical Gardens. A lady runs the counter as (I'm assuming,) her husband makes the donuts on a counter behind her. Now usually when I have been there, the lady at the counter is kind of grouchy. You had better know what you want before you get in there. You will not get greeted with a smile if you hem and haw for a milisecond over what kind of donut you want. But today, with a cute baby in my arms, she was all smiles. I will be sure to have Ethan when I go back there.

We lucked out with another beautiful day. We started in the Children's Garden. Ethan loved climbing the robe bridge. I had to hang onto his hands as we climbed down this wobbly, steep, swaying bridge. I thought for sure I was going over the side. And then he wanted to climb back up it, and then back down it. We climbed it for a while. Then we checked out some water funtains and a stream and a waterfall. Ethan loves anything to do with water. He would gleefully run to the edge of ponds and streams while my heart skipped a beat that I was going to have to fish him out. Then we rode down the slide. We stopped at the bottom and I said "wasn't that fun?!" I was answered with a wailing sob. Okay, no more slides.

We climbed some more steps and the bridge a little a few more times and then tried to move on when he discovered a carved wooden boat. We watched as about 5 or 6 girls piled into it and began to pretend to row the boat with their arms. They climbed out then Ethan climbed in and loved it. He wouldn't get out for 20 minutes. Even as many other kids climbed in and out of it, he just sat and watched from his end of the boat. And it was super adorable when I sat with him in it and sang "Row, row, row, Your Boat," he would make rowing motions with his arms like he had seen the girls do and mumble his way through the song. So cute! We finished the boat experience by jumping off the front edge of the boat becasue he had seen an older kid do it earlier.

Then he discovered one of the Champungu sculptures that lookes like little hens. I love the pictures because they look like they are all looking at him. He kept running up and petting them.

We walked around the Gardens to make our way to the Japanese Gardens. Ethan waved at every single person we walked past. We stopped to feed the fish but they seemed to be full because not a lot of them came up as we tried to feed them.

We then started to make our way back to the front of the Gardens because it was close to nap time. We stopped at the fountains in the rose gardens where we watched two kids playing in the water. Ethan would start to run into the fountain but would stop just short of hitting the water and make a quick u-turn. Then the kids started running the U shape of the fountain so Ethan joined in, only a couple feet outside of the water. It was pretty funny.

Ended the day again at the Disney Store. Ethan would not take a nap all day, so I am sure I returned a really grouchy baby to Dad at 4 o clock.

First Day of Babysitting

2007-09-15T20:05:00.000-07:00

I have the awesome task of babysitting my nephew, Ethan, every Wednesday from now until the end of October (at least). Last Wednesday was my first day and it was so beautiful that I wnated to take him to the zoo. The day started off with me picking him up from his mom's work. There was a brief moment when he was in his car seat and he realized mom was not going with us and his bottom lip curled up and tears started rolling down his face. No screaming, no sobbing. Just heartbreaking tears falling down his cheeks. Now I don't know about you but I know when I cry like that it's a cry that hurts my heart. Now imagine having that feeling everyday when you are left with a babysitter because you just aren't old enough to realize that it's not forever. Okay, it's going to make me cry just thinking about it.

And it didn't last that long anyway. Mom gave him a bowl full of apples, he was set and we were on our way to the zoo. He even excitedly pointed out every car, truck and tree along the way.

So then we get to the zoo, I successfully open up the stroller and get Ethan loaded in. I push him though the front door and head towards the gate we have to pass through to get in. Holding open the gate is a 3 or 4 year old boy. His mom passes through. I wait for him to let it close but he is still holding it open. We make eye contact and I start to push Ethan through. Just as Ethan's feet are millimeters away BAM!!! the kid throws the gate shut. I couldn't believe it! That little brat was trying to cause bodily harm on my little nephew. I came this close of picking up this demon child and throwing him into the lion's pit. I'm sure mom would not have noticed because she was completely oblivious to what her little tyrant just did.

Okay, deep breath and move on. I find out the children's zoo is free from 9 to 10. Awesome! We go check out the meer kats, bunnies and naked mole rats. At one point, Ethan is running around looking at everything and ends up right behind and adults legs just as he is turning around. Of course he gets bulldozed and knocks his little noggin on the concrete floor. So much for my goal of sending him back home with no scratches or bruises. He cried for a second and then started pointing out the bunnies again.

We cruised around the zoo again. He seemed to like the elephants a lot, yelling and waving his arms during the elephant walk. He also yelled at the giraffes for a while. Then we went to bird cage where I showed him what button to push to open the handicap door. So we ended up doing that for a while.

Luch and naptime passed and then we only had about an hour left before I had to drop him off with dad so we stopped by the Disney store. He threw some balls around and danced to Hannah Montana with Mary and Courtney and then it was already time to go. The day went by so fast but that night I was so exhausted. But it was a good exhausted. I can't wait until next Wednesday

Yay for Bloggers!

2007-09-12T11:43:00.000-07:00

One of my customers let me know that she found me on someone else's blog Yay! Many thanks to http://anothershadeofgrey.blogspot.com/ for featuring my Paper Scrap Necklace. I sold both of them that I posted and will be making more. Here is a link to the blog post:

http://anothershadeofgrey.blogspot.com/2007/09/paper-scrap-necklace.html

And another many thanks to peacekit1970 for letting me know about it.

I will be posting more, but if you would like one just convo me in my store. http://www.scrapopolis.etsy.com/

A few Random Things

2007-09-11T18:48:00.000-07:00

*First off, my Grandad gave me this painting of my mom as a graduation present a few years ago. I found out this past summer the little story about it when my brother, husband and I went to visit Grandad in Oklahoma this past summer. My grandad told me that one of their neighbors in South Dakota painted it. There was supposed to be another painting done when she turned sixteen, but the artist died before then. I think it was a great gift.

*Tomorrow, I am babysitting my nephew Ethan. Yay! It is supposed to be beautiful outside so we will probably go to the zoo. I'm a little nervous, which is funny because I used to babysit all the time when I was like twelve and thirteen. We should have a lot of fun though. Plus, I am goign to be able to babysit him every Wednesday through the end of October.

*Last, I bought a new laptop last night! yay! I reached my goal in sales and went ahead and did it. Plus, I bought a refurbished one and it was already red. So I got a deal and I didn't have to pay for the extra fee for it to be red. And I bought a pink wireless mouse to go with it. Isn't that silly?! I am hoping to get it before the Strangefolk Festival so that I can take debit and credit cards. I can take advantage of impulse buyers or people who ahve just plain run outof cash. Yes!

That's it.

Hello, ladies!

2007-09-09T14:46:00.000-07:00

I found these pin up pictures that I had photcopied with an origami paper behind it in my pile of papers I have saved over the years. So I cut 'em up and stitched them onto cards. What a fun way to say hello to someone! A guaranteed smile when opened.Find them at

www.scrapopolis.etsy.com

I admit I am a pack rat

2007-09-04T10:01:00.000-07:00

So I was digging through an old box of cards that I have had forever. I don't even remeber what I was looking for. But in the box I found a box of stickers. When I was younger, I was a sticker collector. I had albums of them. Traded them with friends and just horded them. I don't know what happened the albums, but in this box were a lot of stickers from back then. In fact I found the cutest stickers ever in this box and made cards out of them. The sickers are from 1985! But they made these little cards so cute. I love using up stuff but I will be sad to see these go.

You can find these cards at http://www.scrapopolis.etsy.com

New cards

2007-09-02T20:18:00.000-07:00

I found yet another use for my fabric scraps. Sew them to a notecard! They turned out pretty cute. Now I just need to make one to send with a note to my mother-in-law to call myself truly productive.

http://www.scrapopolis.etsy.com/

So flippin' cute!

2007-09-01T19:26:00.000-07:00

I found this Michael Miller fabric yesterday when I wasn't supposed to be buying fabric. I don't even know what I am going to do with it yet, I just couldn't pass it up.

New necklaces

2007-08-31T08:49:00.001-07:00

I made these new necklaces and absolutely fell in love with them. I know, I know so modest. But they turned out better than I thought they would and I am so excited! they are made out of some of my fabric scraps. You can find them at http://www.scrapopolis.etsy.com/

Welcome to Scrapopolis!

2007-08-31T07:50:00.000-07:00

Please visit my new store on Etsy, Scrapopolis. I have so many scraps form the other things I make. I can't bring myself to throw them away because I love my fabric and it would be such a waste. But my scrap basket is overflowing. So I created Scrapopolis to keep the scraps form going to waste and sharing them with other creative people who can put them to good use. Available are bags of fabric scraps and other goodies made from scraps or recycled materials. Visit often, Scrapoplis is always changing and growing.http://www.scrapopolis.etsy.com/

My feature

2007-08-24T13:26:00.001-07:00

Yay! My feature is up on the Babylock website. They featured me in an article on their Totally Stitchin' website as part of their Stitchin' Women. Please check it out! Plus, they feature fun and easy projects to do.
http://www.totallystitchin.net/stitchin-women/

Presents!

2007-08-23T20:18:00.000-07:00

I finally wrapped up birthday presents for my friends birthday that was in July! I love wrapping presents and sending packages. I couldn't resist taking a picture of what's in her package.

CraftaNostra

2007-08-19T07:39:00.000-07:00

Wowweee, wow, wow! CraftaNostra was last night and was it awesome! My husband and I showed up a little after 9 and teh place was PACKED! To the gills. Wall to wall people in the little cafe of CooperEllas. It was so exciting! As I was entering the first room, two girls were each holding one of my purses! I ran into my friend, Donna, who was manning her section of jewelry goodies. ( http://www.myfriendsandme.etsy.com/ ) She helped set up my stuff since I had to work at my "real" job until after the start of the show. She excitedly told me my stuff was flying off the shelf! Yay! I couldn't even get to my little section, people were rooting through it. Yay! I was such a dumb, dumb girl and did not take any pictures! I had my camera and everything! In the excitement and chaos, I just wasn't even thinking of it. I took one picture of Ginger's set up ( http://www.serendipity06.etsy.com/ ) because she asked me to and it's not even a good picture. I didn't even think to take pictures of the crowd, or the room, or even the Arch Rival Roller Girls. Dummy!

So now it's on to prepare for Strangefolk which I know will be just as successful. And tons of fun to see all the indie vendors and I am going to be set up next to Ginger and we have already decided we were going to do some trading. Her jewelry is really beautiful and so unique. Here is a tiny bit of info for Strangefolk: Strange Folk Festival • Saturday, September 22 • 10am - 6pm Community Park in O’Fallon, Illinois

Top picture is Serendipity's goodies and the second picture is of the goodies I came home with: Sugar Skull from http://www.senoraalegremuertos.etsy.com/ and bracelet from www.beqiclothing.com

Whew!

2007-08-17T19:07:00.000-07:00

Whew! I just dropped off my goods to the Craft Mafia to get ready for CraftaNostra tomorrow. It's been nonstop work the past week to make sure everything was tagged correctly, purses were double checked, new stuff was made, etc,. etc., etc. But all that hard work I think is going to pay off. It looks like it is going be a lot of fun. I saw the rows and rows of goodie bags for customers, the "special" goodie bags for "VIPs" (don't know who they are yet but sounds exciting), saw the other artists stuff that is going to be for sale (can't wait to go shopping myself) and the cafe had the best Turtle Latte over ice I have had in a long time. Yummy!

So please come to the CraftaNostra. I know i t is going to be a lot of fun and you can get delicious coffee. Plus, you can visit super cute and trendy Maplewood. CraftaNostra is at CopperElla located at 2743 SuttonMaplewood, MO 63143.

http://www.cooperella.com/

http://craftanostra.com/

New bracelets!

2007-08-12T16:04:00.000-07:00

I finished 6 new bracelets today! They are so bright and pretty. You can hang on to summer a little longer with these.

You spin me...

2007-08-10T06:08:00.000-07:00

A few years ago, my husband gave me a fun red record player for Christmas. I used it a few times but, I'm ashamed to admit it, it mostly just sat there looking cool. I recently have started to listen to it while I have been sewing. Over the years, I have collected records from thrift stores just becasue I thought the covers were neat looking. A lot of times these beauties have been 10 cents up to a dollar. Well, I've broken them out and have started to try them out and I have in a lot of cases, been pleasantly suprised. The Bossa Nova record is described on the back as "the sensuality of Brazilian Jazz." When listening to it, I feel like ishould be sipping on martinis and lounging in a smart party dress. On the "Sing Me a Song of the Islands" record, Alfred Apaka and the Hawaiian Village Serenaders sing us a warning to "Keep Your Eyes on the Hands" when watching the Hula Dancers. Fun. Now I want to start raiding the thrift shops for more hidden, inexpensive treasure.

My workplace

2007-08-08T13:16:00.000-07:00

I was pretty productive today and cleaned up my sewing corner. It doesn't happen often that it's this clean, so I decided to document it. I even color coordinated my fabrics. Freaky... Now, I'm going to mess it up again and make some stuff.

CraftaNostra

2007-08-08T05:51:00.000-07:00

The generous crafters of St. Louis Craft Mafia are letting my me join in on the fun of CraftaNostra. (Thanks Laurene and April!) On August 18th from 7pm to 1am at Cooperella's in Maplewood, you can shop the best handmade goods on the indie craft scene. To find out more information, visit: http://craftanostra.com/

Vendors from STL Craft Mafia and ETsyLou will be featured.

For my Mom

2007-08-07T06:50:00.001-07:00

In honor of my Mom's birthday in September, starting today, August 7th through September 19th, 100% of the price of my Heart Pins will be donated to the American Cancer Society. The whole $10 will be donated! Donation will be made the first week of October.
http://www.saraprettyfun.etsy.com/

Fun with simple computer effects

2007-08-05T06:33:00.000-07:00

The first is the original that I took at teh Botanical Gardens last year. The last four are me messing with the color palette. I may print them out and make cards.

Yummy, yummy, yummy

2007-08-01T08:28:00.000-07:00

A frined of mine at work gave me three big, red, juicy homgrown tomatoes. Yummy! so I went ot the grocery store to get some bacon and I have been eating BLTs ever since. It was dinner the last two nights in a row and I think it's going to be lunch today. My mouth is watering just thinking about it. Yummy! I'm sure I will have a heart attack by day 5 of BLTs.

I heart embroidery

2007-07-30T20:24:00.001-07:00

I love the look of a hand embroidered embellishment. I did both of these. One's from a pattern and one is copied from a Japanese candy wrapper.

Aaaggh!

2007-07-29T08:04:00.000-07:00

I am a little stressed out. Tomorrow I have a professional photo shoot. Yikes! Something I have never been a part of before. It's for an article that is going to be on the website http://totallystitchin.net/
And while it is exciting, I am completely freaking out as to what to wear. I know that sounds silly, but it really is stressing me out. Here are the things that keep tripping me up on my decision.
-I can't wear white
-I can't wear black
-I don't know if I should wear jeans. I know it seems like I shouldn't, but I kind of want to portray a "young-hip" company that is casual and could be for anybody.
-I don't want to wear soemthing that is too trendy that by next year would just look silly. (These photos may be used for advertising.)
-I don't want to wear something that is too busy because I will be most likely be modeling purses and I want them to be the focus.
-I want to wear long sleeves. I have hairy arms which I don't care about but again, I don't want it to be distracting in photos.
-For some reason, I cannot find one decent long sleeve shirt right now. I know it is still summer, but I work retail and in retail it's back to school time. There should be long sleeves everywhere.
This all sounds silly but it is what is consuming me this weekend.
Wish me luck.

ZINNIAS!!

2007-07-25T06:20:00.000-07:00

These are my favorite flowers. Colors are just like, Kapow! I found these pictures I took last year at the Botanical Gardens. Enjoy!

Oklahoma

2007-07-24T20:24:00.000-07:00

My husband, brother and I just got back from a long weekend in Oklahoma. We went to visit Grandad and watch the rodeo. It was incredibly beautiful because it was abnormally green for this time of year. Usually everything is brown and dry but there were wild sunflowers lining the sides of the roads and all the fields were green. I even gathered a bunch of wildflowers to bring home. Now I have an awesome, free bouquet for my kitchen.

I am always amazed at how many stars you can see at night on Grandad's farm.