NOBODY PUTS BABY IN THE CORNER

Art

2012-01-31T18:22:00.000-05:00

***Monday January 31th, 2012***

In my house the request to do a craft is a constant and some days I do not have it together enough to come up with something brilliant. On days likes these we go with simple but fun nonetheless.

Look at this hip chick in her shades....

Also, we spelled out Lone's name using pipe cleaners and wrapped them in pretty yarn.

Another day over, another craft accomplished!

Christmas Come and Gone

2012-01-18T11:44:00.000-05:00

***January 18th, 2012?!***

So I took a long holiday as you can see. I needed it but am back and ready to share my and others creations and hopefully they will be inspiring.

We had a lovely Christmas. My mother always had friends visiting and it was important to me to do the same for my girls.

Lone had a lot of trouble holding out for Christmas morning! Lucky for her, lots of friends wanted her to open their gifts in front of them. Of course, she's already asking when her birthday is. Spoiled!

There she is Christmas Day! Getting bigger by the minute. No meat on her bones though!

So my New Year's Resolution is to get healthy! Eat real food, throw out my plastic tupperware, keep up with alternative health breakthroughs, take vitamins and get some sleep! I realize that if I don't take care of the body I have now, it's not going to be a body worth having when I'm older. I'm dragging my kids along on this ride too! It's never too late to start.

Santa

2011-12-16T15:55:00.000-05:00

***Friday December 16th, 2011***

I'm not sure Smyth is buying into this whole Santa thing. However, she is a big Jesus fan and has laid claim to the baby Jesus from the nativity scene. He's her favorite weapon! His little splayed fingers can really do some stabbing damage.

Christmas Gifts For Kids

2011-12-06T14:10:00.000-05:00

***Tuesday, December 6th, 2011***

Smyth is down for a long nap today, it's been over an hour already! And this is her second nap!!

So, I thought I'd just put some of my favorite kids christmas gifts out there.

Ok, so I love these types of Vintage Koedachan Set's!!

I think they are super cute for little guys and so much funkier looking than most of the current little people sets and since they tend to do a lot of lying around at my house, this counts for a lot!

You can get them on ebay and etsy and anywhere else that carries vintage toys.

Both my kids gravitate toward my laptop! One wants to play games, the other just wants to press buttons... How about they just play with their own! Well, pretend one.

A little scary? Perhaps. But so much fun too! Love these little horror action figures! They must be in stock somewhere, because I am thinking, great stocking stuffer! Who doesn't love zombies?

Ah, the Air Swimmer....

I bought two of these guys. One for my dad and one for the man of my house. You need to buy a little helium tank, but just think how much fun it will be to see them flying around Christmas morning!

Check out the video on their web page. Looks amazing!

I bought this little guy for Lone for Christmas. He's already arrived and looks good in the box. Although there is no english on his box, other than a caption bubble with him saying hello (thank God he speaks english) I think it should be easy to figure him out. Yes, and while I do know he will be super annoying, repeating everything she says, if you have kids and an iphone, you know they are addicted to the apps that repeat what they say. It's Christmas, after all.

Blythe, oh Blythe! How I watch you on ebay! I really want a Blythe for Lone this Christmas. There has been way too much time spent by me, studying this freakish looking doll! She came out in the 70's scared everyone, then a photo book was made about her around 2003 and now she's huge. Originals can sell for over $1000 and the new dolls are almost always over $100.

Expensive?

Why shouldn't she be?

You can change her hair and eyes! How cool is that! She's got an amazing wardrobe you can collect off of etsy and ebay. And she's made to be so, so modern a doll.

Yes, I think I've justified this purchase. Off to ebay!

2011-12-05T17:59:00.000-05:00

***Monday, December 5th, 2011***

I'm a big fan of repurposing, but not such a big fan of sweatshirts!

So, I thought it would be a good idea to turn this pink sweatshirt into a child's dress.

I gave it puffy sleeves and added a fun pocket made from recycled,

floral cotton for "Elaphant", the little stuffed elephant to live in.

I distressed the dress, by adding bright green, raw stitches.

It's a dress that can be worn in the summer or winter and will fit a 3 or 4 year old child.

$45

This is a jersey wrap skirt that I made from a vintage tea towel, apron, t-shirt and napkin.

All combined they have made a super comfy little wrap skirt .

Complete, with a pair of Australian crimson chat birds, deep in conversation, or perhaps just having a chat!

This wrap will fit a 3 to 6 year old.

$40

Find them on my etsy: Cherubsn

More Cherubsn

2011-12-03T19:41:00.000-05:00

This skirt is both vintage and modern.

I used vintage fabrics and have given this skirt some modern flare, using 50's design.

I've layered fun, blue flowered fabrics and tied them together with a fun, looping, fabric belt. It is a stretchy, slim fit, below the knee. This skirt will fit a 4 or 5 year old.

This bright, happy little skirt is from vintage material and comes with two big pockets with tons of room to fill with curiosities. A pretty little two toned, crochet flower adorns one pocket.

This skirt will fit a 7 to 9 year old girl.

Garden Dress

2011-12-03T18:56:00.000-05:00

***Saturday, December 3rd, 2011***

This dress will fit a girl sized 4. It is below the knees and has some cute touches. First, a lovely flower embellishment that i've recycled from a vintage tea towel. Secondly, a delicate chain of vintage, leather, canadian flowers, including trilliums, held by pink bows. There is also a friendly little lady bug!

Chain with flowers is removable.

Button Bands for Sale

2011-11-22T11:56:00.000-05:00

***Tuesday, November 22nd, 2011***

We got chicken pox in the house!

Yup, the big one has a nasty case of the pox, poor dear. We'll see if in two weeks, the little one gets them too. No fun!!

All of the following button bands are for sale. I've shot each from both sides

They are $25 dollars each or $20 if you buy more than one.

Some have a more stretch than others,

so it would be a good idea to convo me if you need one with a wider wrist.

Hands Up Baby

2011-11-15T12:00:00.000-05:00

*Tuesday, November 15th, 2011***

Dale, my partner, has convinced me that it is time to start advertising my Button Bands.

He's probably right. So, I'm going to start up a facebook page where I can list new ones, like these and list available one's here and on etsy.

While these one's are all sold, having gone to "Dragonfly" in Brighton, new one's will be created daily.

Sewing up some spook time

2011-10-26T20:35:00.000-04:00

***Wednesday, October 26th, 2011***

So, what were you up to last night?

Me?

Just having a "I'm a fabulous mommy" moment, as I sewed up a costume for my little Lone.

Can you guess what she is?

Why, she's the "Queen of The Crows"!

She said a lot of grandmothers and grandfathers pointed at her and smiled today. (Her school went in costume gear, to the local old folks home)

It's pictures like this one, that I will force her to view, when she thinks I suck in the future.

Mums

2011-10-17T09:33:00.000-04:00

***Monday October 17th, 2011***

Things...

Are almost never...

What they seem...

Always look for the fairies.

BIRD POOP

2011-09-29T21:32:00.001-04:00

***Thursday, September 29th, 2011***

Hope you're up for a bit of dirty talk...

So, these days I am tweaking my new sweatshirt dress design. I picked up this tacky bird poop sweatshirt.

I couldn't resist it.

I looked at it.

Walked away.

Walked back.

Looked at it again.

Suddenly, it's in a plastic bag, going home with me.

It's nasty, but kids love poop. They love to talk about it and look at it. Whenever I gather Smyth up to change a dirty diaper, Lone is right there, flying down the hall ahead of me, not wanting to miss the big unveiling, and of course, she is full of gross sounds and comments.

Currently though, Lone herself has been going through a bit of a regression. She does not like to have anything to do with her own poop. She does not want to wipe her own bum.

Now, finally realizing that crying and refusing to do it herself, just means that she ends up sitting on the john for a looooong time, she is now trying to talk me into the task, trying to sell me the action, heckling me even!

"It's just poop mom! Don't be afraid of the poop mom! It's just bad food."

The plan for this dress, was to sew the words "Don't Be Afraid of The Poop" on it's back. Bird poop and all, ha ha... Anyway, I screwed up the design of the dress a bit, so Lone got to keep and wear it to school today, minus the sentence, but plus the word "love" sewn into the back.

The poop dress really should have gone to Lone, all along.

I have no idea if they are honestly based on real bird poop samples.

First Fall Dress

2011-09-24T22:15:00.000-04:00

***Saturday, September 24th 2011***

I have completed my first little girl's fall dress.

It is all about comfort and play. I hope you like it!

And yes I know I spelled Elefant wrong :)

It will fit a three to four year old.

It can be found in Higglety Pigglety,

in Port Hope,

in the near future.

Here is Smyth...

So, Smyth has pointed out to me that it is now time for her close up.

She has not said it so much with words, but rather in striking such dandy and dashing poses.

She's got all the angles....Left

...Right...

She is ready to be Cherubsn's newest baby model, I do believe.

(As long as there is no standing involved)

Rachel Getting Married

2011-09-22T09:44:00.001-04:00

***Thursday 22nd September, 2011***

This one's for you beautiful Rachel!!

This past weekend, my dear Montreal friend Rachel visited. She had decided that while her fiance had his stag party, that she would have hers with the girls and myself. Not wild like his (so I've heard), but we had fun.

To me, nothing says fun like playing dress up! Since I was a little girl, I loved dress up. I think this is why I am able to think outside of the box when designing clothes. I have a pretty vivid imagination! Lucky for me, so does Rachel. She plays tourist in her own town, all the time.

Anyway, someone is clinging to my leg, I'm wearing all black and sitting in the sun and I need to cut a new pattern....

Must be off, but I just wanted to thank Rachel for making us her travel destination and that I can't wait to watch her vamp down the runway!

Higglety Pigglety Teepee

2011-09-12T18:48:00.001-04:00

***Monday, September 12th, 2011***

I have wanted a Teepee for the girls, for a long, long, long time. Some days I wanted it so bad, it hurt. I'd get headaches.

I think they are such a stylish and beautiful way of incorporating kid's play with modern, cool and clean.
Not only do teepees turn an unloved corner, into a magical world, but they are a place to store kids toys, out of sight!

Debbie, at Higglety Pigglety in Port Hope, came through for us. Ya, ya bought this beauty and Debbie made it.

She even snuck in the cutest little bunny image. I love it's simple and organic style and it look so good in my living room and my kids love it.

Some days are filled with more toys than teepee space.

And I don't feel bad at all for kicking the finka tree out of the corner.

You should contact Debbie, and have her make one for you...

HAPPY 5 LONE!!

2011-09-05T10:25:00.000-04:00

Lone is 5....

I have a five year old kid! Crazy. She wants to know what car seats are made of, what happens to our bones when we become angels, beats me at memory games and remembers people's names when I do not. She has turned into my little buddy and she's so good with her sister.

Here are a few highlights from her party, which was held at our dear friend Barbara's. Barbara helped me pull off a pretty darn good party.

The cake was so pretty!! I wish I'd had time to take more pictures.

How do the moms on the blogs I follow, find time to take pictures at their parties

I used these beautiful butterflies that I got on etsy. Will put up a better picture.

Wardrobe change! Like a wedding.

Pretending to care about cards.

Hunting the poor frogs!!

We did sandwiches and lots of fresh veg. Tried to keep things inviting for the vegan guests.

We had a nature walk, a toy boat show in the pond and a treasure hunt for activities.

Thanks to all that attended and made it a great day!

Long Time

2011-09-05T10:01:00.000-04:00

It's been a long time. Busy creating, traveling out east and preparing for Lone's birthday.

During our trip to the Ocean, I picked up samples of material and little things that Lone found (she's always hunting for dropped treasure). Out of all these picking, I created a dress, a birthday dress!

Going to start making dresses for my Etsy.

Wasn't sure she would wear it.

Oh! Hello, how'd you get in there....

Dragonfly

2011-07-31T20:41:00.000-04:00

Cherubsn has found a home at "Dragonfly" in Brighton. Was very happy to drop off an order on what would have been my mom's 67th birthday (the 29th).

Now, the gang and I are either heading East or West tomorrow. What will it be?

Busy as a Bee

2011-07-19T19:45:00.000-04:00

***Tuesday, July 19th, 2011***

I'm not even going to look at the date of my last entry. I have been so busy this summer!!

First, we were featured at LUX boutique in Warkworth!

Lone at LUX grand opening.

And CHEX TV did a segment including CHERUBSN. Lots of fun,

forward through if you like, my section is at the end!!

Then Smyth and I did The Purple Turtle artisan show! It was so, so hot! But a great experience!

It was great fun setting up a booth.

I received lots of great feedback!

I had one little girl that was so in love with my clothing. That is why I do what I do!

Though money doesn't hurt either :)

My button bands and head bands!

Smyth's little world for the two days!

Busy as a bee, you see!!

Bday party for Smyth

2011-06-13T13:24:00.000-04:00

The other day the petit femmes and I saw a brown furry beast wandering in the grass, by the side of road, in Cobourg.

"Beaver!" I yelled excitedly.

"No, wood chuck!," I corrected myself.

"No... gopher!" I finally surmised. Am I becoming stupid from lack of sleep, or am I totally disconnected to nature these days?

FInally had a small shindig for Smyth yesterday. A couple of my girlfriends pressured and guilted me into it (poor second child). My back is killing and I am worn out! How do my little people suck the life out of me so sufficiently?

And she's out!

Happy Bday party little Smyth.

HAPPY FIRST BIRTHDAY SMYTH!!

2011-06-02T21:15:00.000-04:00

***Thursday, June 2nd, 2011***

Today my little one is one!

Poor dear is doing well after a skin allergy that ended us up in the ER the night before.

She had sushi for lunch and visited Campbellford for a swap party, pizza, cake and Andrew McQueen's awesome music!

She still don't move, but she can sure move to the beats!

Her favorite place though, is still in bed, nursing with momma and no matter where she goes, all over this big, bright world, I know there will always be those moments in her life that she will wish for nothing more than that to be right back in bed with her momma. And I will be waiting for her.

I love you baby. Thank you for picking to be a part of us.

Momma

Raw Fingers

2011-05-17T21:29:00.000-04:00

***Tuesday May 17th, 2011***

It still amazes me how we can take this....

And turn it into this....

I am so, so tired! I had a deadline to get a bunch of things made by today, for a store that is opening soon. The store owner is pleased, so therefore I am too :) Of course I will make more. I am addicted. Happily addicted.

Smyth is always happy to sport my goods! She will be one in less than a month. Too fast, it has flown by.

Just have to write the following down, so that I can look back on it one day after I have forgotten it and laugh. Not material for children or the faint of heart....

So we took the Petite Femmes to the zoo last weekend. While looking at the mighty lion, Lone exclaimed "I think those are his balls", matter-of-factually. I froze, my mind reeling as I tried to figure out where she would have heard that word. Finally, after about 20 seconds of silence from me, I noticed that way in the back of his cage (he had three fenced rooms) that there were two large, yoga style, balls. Flooded with relief. Not ready for that chat.

Secondly, sadly Lone has been having some number two accidents at school recently. The last time (before today's accident) that she had an incident, she never told anyone and I discovered upon picking her up that she still had the poop in her pants!! While driving home, I asked her how long it had been in her pants and she calmly reported to me that she thought it had been there for fifty days. She does make me laugh, poor dear.

Sunshines

2011-04-24T22:21:00.001-04:00

***Sunday, April 24th, 2011***

We have had a nice Easter. We ate breakfast at one of my favorites breakfast places EMILY'S. They do a great breakfast that includes an all you can eat free buffet of cakes and fresh fruit. I don't really want to tell too many people about it because it will get busy. Lucky for me, only a few people read this blog!!

How cute are these!

The white one is a Philippines dish.

While it isn't always this impressive, it is always an impressive spread. Look at the cupcake peeps!

So I just wanted to say something about my own two little peeps. We were visiting some new puppies today, and the pup that I was holding started to make those baby grunting sounds that only puppies make, which I had forgotten they make, and it made me want to write down the following, so I will never forget it.

There's something about the newly found warm weather, that transforms me into the mother that I want to be all of the time.

I am patient with Lone this weekend, as we walk around the block. I find myself having the time to stop and compare the textures and colours of the different types of mosses we meet along the road's way. I study her face and her hair (hair I would kill to have), in the sunlight and marvel at this special child with braids that perch on her shoulders. I forget that she does the opposite of everything I ask of her these days. That she is so head strong. I don't even mind when she complains (for the second time, first to daddy earlier) that my toenails scratch her in the tub (yes it's often a communal tub, have you seen the price of gas!! We have a hummer!!) I just find her funny and adorable and I laugh.

I like how quiet and gentle I am with Smyth during these sunny days. I marvel at her genius as she immediately understands the workings of her new Easter toy and puts the balls in the big pocket. I don't even care that she is almost eleven months and seems no closer to crawling, let alone walking. She is smart and quick and waves at my breast when I tell her "it's time to say bye bye to the boo", when it's apparent that she's not really hungry and I want to put down my shirt. In the afternoon sun she is a bright shinning beacon of my love and she amazes me by how she has slipped in as the forth member of this family and made it so none of us can remember nor imagine life without her.

I can't imagine life without either of them and while yes, I miss dancing the night away, I look forward to showing these little girls some of my more current dance moves.

My girls, like the sun, warm my heart and my home.

MODELS

2011-04-22T17:00:00.000-04:00

***Friday, April 22nd, 2011***

My girls have been modeling for me....

Can't even tell that it was super hard to get them to do it!

Lone, once you get her into it, she's a natural :)

Working Away

2011-04-20T11:43:00.000-04:00

***Wednesday, April 20th, 2010***

I have been very busy working away, making little girl's clothes for a store that is opening in a neighboring town soon. I was so honored when the store owner contacted me and asked to put some of my creations into her boutique! Now I just have to make them And Lone and Smyth need to model them by next week!! I also make clothes for another shop, my etsy store and I am doing a show this summer. So, I've been busy!! Good thing it's raining!!

Just made this banana number from a t-shirt. Ruffles on the bum!

It makes me think of Bobo Choses and their new summer line. I love their clothes!!

Reading Books Makes You Smarter

2011-04-12T19:02:00.000-04:00

***Tuesday April 12th, 2011***

My lovely friend Liz Collard has written her second kid's book "The Secret Of Pirate Taz". I love that I can actually see her daughter's face in Pirate Taz's. Such a good likeness. You may recall Liz also wrote "Jeremiah, The Schoolhouse Dog".

I am very proud of her and her children's books. She's a great writer and imagine writing a book that your children and then their children and even their children will read. Such a special gift to be able to give to your loved ones.

On that note, I guess I should also mention that I too am a published author :) A story of mine was accepted into a compilation of short stories about mother's advice "Wisdom of Our Mothers". I am happy that I am able to honor my mother in such a great book. Of course, had I know I was going to be published, I would have obsessed over my story longer. Probably, like way too long. I'm thinking maybe weeks or months even...

I can't afford to put that amount of time into an insecurity.

So, I guess it's good that I didn't know I'd land in such a great book. It's on my coffee table. If you are my friend and you don't notice it when you're at my house, don't worry, I point it out.

I wonder if Liz has her books on her coffee table?

P.S I don't know why or how half my blog became a larger font. It's really a miracle that I have figured out how to even have a blog. I'm in no way trying to claim more fame for my book :)

ETSY KIDS

2011-04-10T14:11:00.000-04:00

***Sunday, April 10th, 2011***

I am a proud member of Etsy Kids, which is totally dedicated to handmade goodies just for kids and babies. Recently, I created a "treasury" of some of the cute things being made by other Etsy Kids members (the competition). So much talent!! and I might add, modeled by super cute babies!! Please have a look here.

Wish I could have found a way to add my super cute kid!!

Guess she'll have to model clothes for me soon!!

I also came across benjaminballerina. While I couldn't use their kids clothes in this particular treasury, I think they are super talented and really hope to buy one of their pieces for my girls!! Go have a look!!

Food Glorious Food

2011-03-30T09:35:00.004-04:00

***Wednesday, March 30th, 2011***

Dale keeps saying "In like a lion, out like a lamb", but I wasn't buying it until the last couple of days. It's cold, but it is sunny out and I see new buds everywhere!!

Last weekend I had the delicious pleasure of attending a Brookside Farm cooking class. I and two friends joined Barbara in her country kitchen and were taught how to cook an amazing and healthy meal. Best of all, almost all the ingredients came out of Barbara's backyard.

I find that while most of us feel pleased when we don't heat up an instant meal for dinner, we still are not cooking from scratch. Things still come out of cans and boxes in our "home cooked meals". I felt like a cooking star that day. We even made our own bread.

Take a look at this:

SUNDAYS @ THE FARM

_____________________

cooking a family feast

BROOKSIDE FARM offers hands-on cooking classes, where you learn to prepare a four-course meal for your family, using local, seasonal, organic ingredients. The Farm Kitchen has room for three "cooks" and their partners and kids to join us for the dinner.

MENU FOR MARCH

_________________

winter squash strudel

roasted parsnip & cider soup

roasted beet salad

braised lamb shanks

potato & onion bread

apple-cranberry galette

with vanilla ice cream

I never thought I'd cook lamb! Anyway, it was a lot of fun and there was a lot of activity going on when our combined 7 kids made it to the table!!

Barbara's home is a great place to host a dinner or party. Contact her for more information. She has a wonderful place that she is kind enough to share with the rest of us.

SUPERMARKET SARAH

2011-03-09T14:44:00.003-05:00

***Wednesday, March 9th, 2011***

Clearly, a creative flow is coming my way. I'm buzzing with creative energy and dying to get working with my hands. Five times today I've peeked into the junk/dog's room. I'm totally thinking it would clearly work better as a craft room for me than a sleeping/junking room for them. It's gonna happen one of these days.

A very creative lady is Supermarket Sarah, out of London. I've just come across her site and the girl is brilliant!

She's covered her walls with stuff for sale(started in her house and has now gone bigger, think Selfridges) You literally just click on the product you want to find out more info and to buy it.

It's a bunch of theme rooms! It's like an adult fun park of store windows!

How smart!

2011-03-08T07:44:00.002-05:00

***Tuesday March 8th, 2011***

If you don't have yourself a four year old, I suggest you get one. They are hilarious! And I ate a zebra yesterday with a pipe in it's earlobe, but I'm not spelling the Jesus in my wedding gown because I hate the way Mayo sticks to your garden hose on Tuesdays.

Sometimes life drags me kicking and screaming away from the computer for short intervals. Before I have finished my thought. This allows word sprites to sneak in and write stuff that makes one think "What the heck is that all about?"

So, back to my thought. Get yourself a four year old! They are so funny! We were leaving our favorite breakfast place last sunday, having convinced our good friends to join us. As we walked to our cars, their four year old daughter Charlie, promptly said, "that restaurant was terrible!"

Then my four year old said "No it's not Charlie! Don't say that, you hurt my feelings!"

So funny! Then today, my four year old brought her daddy some Q tips, because she had noticed his ears are dirty. Disgusting on his part, cute on hers.

And by the way, mayo does stick to your garden hose, so there.

Fairy Dolls

2011-03-05T17:14:00.004-05:00

***Saturday March 5th, 2011***

So March break is coming up soon. Since we will be going nowhere (not at all bitter) (really), I better have lots of crafts on hand. Giving Lone's favorite barbies some wings was lots of fun and really easy. You can get the images here I feel terrible that I can't find the blog that created this great idea. Sorry!

While it was suggested to laminate the wings, good old, thrifty Dale stopped me at the door to suggest just using tape. It worked beautifully.

You will also need a hole punch and pipe-cleaners. One worked for me.

I love that they are wearing helmets.

Seriously, it's not easy to fly! It can be very dangerous.

Plastic protecting plastic.

Ah yes, this purple little gal always looks good.

I guess thats why little girls always fight over who gets to play with her.

Yup, two weeks of crafts! No sun, no beach, just crafting :)

Alexandre Orion

2011-03-03T11:44:00.004-05:00

***Thursday March 3rd, 2011***

I came across alexandre orion in last month's Architectural Digest. I zoomed in on his graffiti style photography immediately. His work is so humorous and edgy.

He is also considered a "Reverse Graffiti" artist. These guys tag, by washing away the dirt and grime on buildings.

Good Day

2011-03-01T12:25:00.005-05:00

***Tuesday March 1st, 2011***

Yesterday was such a good day!

So, we got up. We did a craft. We made chocolate cupcakes and a cake. We had lunch. We went for a walk around the block. We found Tofino (our dog) who apparently decide to partake in a walk of her own. We brought ourselves and the dog home. We ate a cupcake (mommy had a second when Lone wasn't looking). We had a nap. Mommy snuck another cupcake.

Our craft came from kidscraftweekly. I love that I can just look online and find something fun to do with Lone when I cannot come up with with anything.

Lone wanted to leave her apron's in the kitchen, for our next cupcake session :) She hopes that it is very, very soon.

Brollte

2011-02-25T17:41:00.003-05:00

***Friday Feb. 25th, 2011***

Two summers ago, while visiting Montreal (my favorite Canadian city!!) I stopped into a gallery that only features Montreal artists. I fell in love with so much in that place, but particularly theBrollte lights. I wanted to bring one home, but didn't think it would be such a good idea since I travelled by train that trip.

So, I was thrilled to come across these amazing hand painted lamps at "The One Of A Kind Show" and was able to chat with someone directly from the source. I want one of these lamps! I will have one! They are so modern and yet very organic looking.

From visiting their site, I've since learned that they also

do paintings as well as invitation cards.

These pictures look great but still don't do them justice. It's like they are covered in globs of coloured wax, or plastic. They are so, so beautiful. I really want one in my room. It would make it possible to read in bed and not wake the child sleeping on either side of me, because I would not need to get up to turn off the light.

Well honestly, Lone will sleep through anything, even Smyth's crying which is inevitable, when I get up to turn off the light.

BROOKSIDE FARM

2011-02-23T19:19:00.005-05:00

***Wednesday, Feb. 23rd, 2011***

I've just checked out my friend Barbara's new website, found here. I will be doing some of her cooking classes in the next few months and can't wait!

I've been a guest at her house many times in the past and believe me,

everything this woman makes and creates is wonderful.

I always leave her house wanting to go home and be creative. She has that effect on people.

MENU FOR MARCH

_________________

winter squash strudel

roasted parsnip & cider soup

roasted beet salad

braised lamb shanks

potato & onion bread

apple-cranberry galette

with vanilla ice cream

Can't wait to eat it. Cooking it should be a bit of fun too :)

MOXYANDTOOTS

2011-02-22T18:22:00.008-05:00

***Tuesday, Feb. 22nd, 2011***

Although Valentine's Day was over quite a few days ago, I did not mention the great "MoxyandToots" v day party we attended.

My friend Debbie at "Higglety Pigglety" threw a great celebration that was not only in honor of Valentine's Day, but also to welcome "MoxyandToots" into her store.

These lovable stuffed toys are super cute and can be found not only in Debbie's shop but also at creator Adrienne's etsy shop right here.

Of course I got one!

NEON

2011-02-21T11:05:00.003-05:00

***Monday (family Day) Feb. 21st, 2011***

These days I am really into Neon. I've suggested to Dale that we repaint our fire place neon green. The answer was "nope".

Then I wanted to replace my curtains in the bedroom and thought something in neon would be cool. The cat has created her own star installation that is there for my very own viewing pleasure, when they are closed. For a while Dale had me convinced it was teeny tiny, invisible moths eating them, but then I caught the wretched beast pocking holes in them with her talons.

Maybe I'll dye the cat neon pink. I'm sure Lone would love that.

So neon is my thing these days and Judy Black's stuff, is right up my acid wash alley.

I saw her work at "The One of A Kind Show" and it pained me to not buy a few of these pillows.

Every time I walk by my lounge room,

I envision three like this one , dressing up my bla couches.

I would totally like to see some kids clothes from these guys.

This bag print would make very cool curtains in my room.

Maybe minus the little guy.

He might give me nightmares.

FALLING TREES

2011-02-20T17:42:00.007-05:00

***Sunday, Feb. 20th, 2010***

I must tell you about our Friday night. I experienced something I have not done so in quite some time.

Cold, hard fear.

Friday afternoon, the family and I went to visit our friends who have quite the snow run built. Because it was a full moon, we hiked out to their winter pond. It took about ten minutes to get there and looked so beautiful with the full moon and fairy lights, encased in ice, scattered around the rink. The kids loved skating and being pulled around in the sleds. Hot chocolate and little cups of wine, added to everyone's overall good cheer. Out of nowhere, the wind began to pick up, really pick up and suddenly a huge tree cracked and crashed down, only feet from the rink and us! All the trees began swaying and then another fell and it was too dark to see what direction it was heading. The kids were terrified and so were the adults! One tree landed right on our path and we all had to scurry under it!

It seems the night sprites wanted their forest back!

It was so good to get back to the safe and warm house and it made me think of all that our ancestors would have had to endure in the primitive world that was not so long ago.

Some things I like, in honor of those usually, grand, gentle giants.

hibernate

2011-02-15T17:39:00.004-05:00

***Thursday Feb 17th 2011***

My father is off to Mexico without us.

I'm not at all bitter though.

So, he's off to sunny Mexico and the Femmes and I decided to go visit him before he left.

He's gone for two months. Two months in the sun. So Lone was a little bummed out when she realized that we are not going with him, that we are just visiting him in the retirement village he lives in.

So I suggested that we play the animal game "Beaver". She said that her teacher says that bears are hibernating right now and so we can't play.

My kid is so smart!

Seriously!

I had to spell-check hibernate!

Some pics of the cute kids. Smyth is 8 months old!

BIRTHDAYS

2011-02-15T17:26:00.002-05:00

***Tuesday February 15th, 2010***

We just love birthday parties at my house. Lone more so than any of us. Daily, she invites strangers to her next birthday party.

We have gone to a lot of parties recently. Like Her buddy Charlie's. (Middle)

How great is this winter themed cake!

This was the most relaxed and enjoyable kid's party that I have ever attended!

Maybe it was because my friend Terra only had four kids at the party (and three babies).

How cute or these books and head bands?!

Each was picked specifically for each child.

Then it was Audrey's day!

Audrey has turned one.

I'll never forget the day she was born, as I was there :)

She's beautiful.

Smyth's pretty dapper herself.

She enjoyed her first birthday party, which just so happened to be her best buddy's.

School Daysse

2011-01-26T11:02:00.003-05:00

***Wednesday January 26th, 2010***

I love my daughter's montessori school. It's great! Having to come up with show and tell ideas, I like, not so much. Only because I insist that it be something a little more interesting and educational than her just dragging one of her monster size sleep companions (not mommy and daddy, but the massive pink bear, brown moose with the red bow and purple dog pillow thing) that she insists on dragging around the house. I hate them all!!

So, first show and tell this year constituted a visit to school from mommy with our fruit dehydrator. We've been drying tons of apples from our property. The kids got to eat dried fruit and learn about drying food. I did most of the talking, yes, but fun nonetheless.

Last show and tell, Lone wore her spanish lady outfit and so did her barbie. Fun all around.

This time, I am hoping she can show these little guys...

We made them this morning. My mother used to make them with me when I was a child.
I thought it would be nice to send the materials and let all of her classmates make one.
Will see what her teacher thinks.

KID'S PARTY FOOD

2011-01-20T18:44:00.005-05:00

***Thursday January 20th, 2010***

I have been thinking about birthday parties.

Yes, both Smyth and Lone's are way far away. But, now that I have two parties to think about, I gotta start the planning.

These are some lovely food ideas...

Love the mushrooms!!

Chocolate bird nests!!

Yum...

cookie sushi!

ice cream cup cakes (less messy than real ice cream)

BABY GOT BUTTy

2011-01-15T17:57:00.003-05:00

***Saturday January 15th, 2011***

Is it just me or do these pants make my baby look like she has one seriously big behind?

It's just the pant. Really.

Talk about mud flaps,

my baby's got them.

ZARA

2011-01-11T17:22:00.002-05:00

***Tuesday January 11th 2010***

I've always been a fan of Zara clothing. I still remember the velvet, burgundy top an old boyfriend bought for me, during my first visit to one of its stores. Burgundy, yuck.

So, upon hearing that it now has an online store, I of course, went to check it out.

Now I am unimpressed with you Zara.

There are all these fantastic kids clothes on sale!!

Yet, there is nowhere to purchase them at the online shop.

For those of us unable to visit an actual store, this is just cruel and unusual punishment.

What's the deal Zara?

Answer me!!

Eco Lunch Sacs

2011-01-10T11:53:00.002-05:00

***Monday January 10th, 2011***

Lone goes back to school tomorrow!! Envying my momma friends, whose kids went back today. Sorry Lone...but...

So with back to school comes lunches. I hate using sandwich bags. Dale tries to reuse them, but I think that that is kind of gross. So I found this lovely etsy artist WasteNotSaks that has solved the problem for under 7 bucks American.

Love them!!

So much cleaner, cheaper and environmental friendly!

Dale and I will now argue over whether or not we need these. My vote is YES!!

Back later with the verdict!

FAB TOAD STOOLS

2011-01-06T20:14:00.004-05:00

***Thursday January 6th, 2011***

It all started with a little red topped mushroom kaleidoscope, being sold in my friend's shop. Since then, I have become obsessed with mushroom inspired designs.

Here are a few of my recent favorites...

Anthropologie, to me, can do no wrong! I love this kid's mushroom puff.

Just think of all the little people that could move in under it!

If you are the creative type, you can get the plans to make these little mushroom homes at Craftzine.

Lastly, I swear I am going to buy this fantastic little dress from Sosooki, for Lone!

You can get it at Kawaiikids.

Nothing represents the magic nature of childhood like the toad stool. Whenever we come across them in the rain, Lone and I always bend down to check to see if there are any fairies staying dry under their umbrella caps.

Sonja Ahlers Bunnies

2011-01-03T13:58:00.003-05:00

***Monday January 3rd, 2011***

Ha! Can't remember if I put 2011 on my last blog! So funny. Never has been easy for me to get used to a new year.

So, I love it when I find great artists whose creations are easily available in Canada. I met Sonja Ahlers briefly at the Oneofakindshow in Toronto.

We chatted very little, because I was busy falling in love with her little bunnies!

And cannot multitask. Shopping and talking...not my thing.

I love that she reuses all kinds of things for her little fellows homes.

I keep telling my friend Angela to get in touch with Sonja, who collects ballet slippers. Angela has been dancing for years and has a bunch of old slippers lying around.

I'm thinking Sonja gets her slippers and Angela gets my girls a bunny!

Must keep working on her...

You can check out Sonja's wonderful fuzzy buddies and her life at www.sonjaahlers.com. She also has an etsy site www.makeitawesome.etsy.com.

GIRLY GIRLS

2011-01-02T17:52:00.007-05:00

***Sunday January 2nd 2010**

Today my darling little Smyth is 7 months old.

She loves egg yolks, sleeping on anyone even remotely warm blooded and kicking both her toys and other people.

In the morning when she wants to get up and mommy wants to sleep, she especially likes to kick mommy.

In honor of little girls, I took a quick peek at http://www.ilovegorgeous.co.uk.

It was only quick because daddy got suspicious in the other room and wanted to know if I was shopping.

No!

This soon after Christmas!

Me?

No way!

The nerve....What does he take me for?!

It is a dream online store for those of us with little "sugar lumps". (One of Smyth's nicknames)

Dale however prefers "International, supernatural, flying baby of Japan".

I admit it's kind of catchy.

But, I did want to share these little numbers...

just

with

you

whomever

you are.

P.S www.ilovegorgeous.co.uk if you need a few cute models, I know two, who would be completely happy to be paid in clothing :)

2010-12-31T18:14:00.003-05:00

December 31st!!

Shame, shame, shame! I have not written in so, so long! But what with entertaining little people and Christmas shopping and parties...I've been busy. Forgive me.

So..here is an idea I am quite proud of....

We had this IKEA book shelf.

Then we gave it to Dale's parents.

Then they gave it back to us.

I never liked the way it looked, when flat against a wall, so we bolted it to the side of the wall in Lone's room. Now it acts as both a screen and two sided storage in Lone's room.

Neat huh!

Be back soon...

Winter

2010-12-01T15:05:00.003-05:00

***Wednesday, 1st of December***

Wow, been so busy making button bands for a friends Christmas show!

Also, Lone and Dale where penguins in the Santa Clause Parade.

Santa even spoke to Lone, but she wasn't that into him.

We had ballet and parents were finally able to watch the little darlings.

They moved like sugar plum fairies.

Have been spending time with friends. Boy that was a hike!

Dale and Sara kept passing Audrey back and forth!

And of course, lots of cakes these days too!

Not good for baby weight loss :(

2010-11-14T16:16:00.004-05:00

Found a new site. It has the coolest modern and unique stuff!! www.momastore.org

I want this modern little doll house for the girls. Great to travel with!!

and this little hip family for the girls. They come with a ton of outfits.

The guy looks exactly like Dale..hee...hee.

Such great prices too. Both come in under $20 American. Lots of cool adult gear available too. It is an especially great site to guy shop at!!

Ode to Smyth

2010-11-14T15:51:00.002-05:00

***Sunday, November 14th, 2010***

My little one is 5 months old now.

She's a big baby. She's a happy baby. She likes the sound of her own voice.

She gets fluff balls on the back of her head. We have to cut them out every few days.

She loves Lone.

A few days ago, Lone and I danced around the living room to some rocking beats and Smyth refused to watch me! She just followed Lone around with her eyes. She loves her big sister.

Maybe I've lost my moves?

A dog followed us on our walk the other day, barking his head off at Tophino (our dog) and she thought

it was the funniest thing. Every time he barked, she laughed and she wasn't even looking at him!

Festive Lone

2010-11-09T09:32:00.004-05:00

***Tuesday, November 9th, 2010***

It has been a while, I know it. Just been so busy with the kids. Smyth is not a big daytime sleeper and I've become involved with events and things pertaining to Lone's school. Also, I'm in love withwww.hautelook.com . It is the place to shop and has kept me a little busy!!

Lone at the pumpkin patch, during a school trip.

We had a fun Halloween! Lone was the Princess and Smyth was the Pea!

Need to post some pictures of the pea. I don't have any at the moment.

Lone was really into it and didn't want to stop collecting candy.

She made a good princess. She even had princess money and princess car keys.

(thanks to Michael and Richard)

Funky Couch

2010-11-07T09:24:00.002-05:00

***Sunday November 7th, 2010***

I know it's been a while. Been busy, but will be back!!

Selling our wonderful couch set.

1960's, 16ft two piece couch (two eight foot segments). Two accompanying arm chairs on wheels and an ottoman.

Been re-upholstered once. Black leather. $2500.

SKIRT

2010-10-01T09:35:00.007-04:00

***Friday October 1st, 2010***

This is Emerson's skirt.

We hope she likes it.

What little girl wouldn't like neon yellow, black lace and crochet flowers?

PUFF BALL

2010-09-27T19:16:00.005-04:00

***Monday September 27th, 2010***

One thing about my old place that made it really hard to leave it, was the morel mushrooms growing in the backyard. I love mushrooms, especially morals. So, when Lone and I discovered this monster puff ball in our new yard, I was quite pleased. I felt sort of rustic and was glad that we still have some fungi nature in our lives.

The plan was to eat it. Dale's not a big fan of the taste of puff ball though, having had a bad experience in the past. So I planned to make it into a quiche, as my sister Kim suggested. But the next day we were out all day, including dinner. So by the third day, I wasn't confident about using it anymore and ended up just tossing it in the little forest behind our house. It's laying out there right now, with the dead mouse Dale pulled from the pool's filter and I am feeling awful for both of them :(

LUNCH AT BARBARA AND BRIAN'S

2010-09-21T10:25:00.004-04:00

***Tuesday September 21st, 2010***

We had lunch at Barbara and Brian's on Sunday. I love visiting their home.

When I am there, more than anywhere else, I can see myself living out my days in the country, in an old country house. Well...their house anyway :)

Walking away from my modern home and life.

Together, they have created an oasis of tranquility and magic.

Barbara is an organic farmer, among many other things. She makes wonderful things at BROOKSIDE FARM and we were fortunate enough to be invited, with some others, to dine on some of the fruits of her labour...

BARBARA AND BRIAN'S CONT'D

2010-09-21T10:15:00.003-04:00

Nature is a magical world that a child can get lost in and won't ever forget.

There is nothing like childhood memories of fields, swings, ponds and lazy butterflies.

Nature always produces such fine fare and fine feelings.

I'm so happy that we have a place like Barbara's to spend time at.

She has created a fantastical and inviting world on her farm. A doorway to a fairy land.

A peaceful place.

LUNCH AT BARBARA AND BRIAN'S CON'T

2010-09-21T09:52:00.005-04:00

I just love the little details that Barbara adds,

They remind me so much of my mother's own creative touches.

It was the perfect weather. Our own big, blue sky.

So many places to disappear to. To sit and have a quiet chat within.

FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD

2010-09-21T09:29:00.003-04:00

Now for some of the food....

Ask if you would like to know what it is...

A German Broad bean dish...yum

It was all so delicious. I don't know how she does it.

DESERT!

2010-09-21T09:12:00.006-04:00

And of course, this little girl's favorite.......

And maybe theirs too....

Desert!

I loved the melted cheese with Barbara's own sweet pepper jam!

Dale liked the currant meringue!

And Lone was in love with the vegan, chocolate brownies.

It was a beautiful day of food and friends.

MODEL SMYTH

2010-09-16T17:27:00.004-04:00

***Thursday, Septemeber 16th, 2010***

Some days I should not bother to turn on the radio. Knowledge brings so much weight, sometimes it's crushing.

On to other things. Happy things....

"I'm a model..."

"You know what I mean?!"

"And I do my..."

"little turn on the momma's bed!"

"Yeah, on the bed. I shake my little diapered bum on the bed..."

Say hi to SMYTH, my newest model.

LONE IS FOUR

2010-09-07T11:09:00.002-04:00

***Tuesday September 7th, 2010***

Lone is FOUR. Yup, four. I must say I have mixed feelings, but really don't we all when our little one's seem to grow so fast. Today she said "who cares", a few nights ago she explained the importance of refraining from "double dipping" to her daddy. Where has it all gone? I look down at the little one (Smyth) slobbering on my hand and try to imagine her at four. Can't, just like I can't image Lone at six, etc.

Blurry, but beautiful...

My sister did a marvelous job on this rainbow cake!

Must find a pic of it before it was cut, it was so beautiful.

Did you know that you pull strings to release the loot on Pinatas these days?

No more beating it to death?

Fine by me.

People who live in glass houses shouldn't hand base ball bats to preschoolers.

Taadaa! Told you I would get her these pants. Already had tons of complements too.

And she wore them today for the first day of school!

Yes, it's true she has been wearing them for three days straight. But who cares, they rock!

LONE IS FOUR Cont.

2010-09-07T10:55:00.002-04:00

Some of the fun things for Lone's fourth....

Letting kids decorate things like this really inspires them.

Lone is still decorating leftover sombreros!

Lots of blurry pics...Never seemed to stand still long enough!

Little sparkly pinatas and fans brought back from Mexico!

Too cute!

Paper flowers, also from Mexico and sent home with guests.

Love it all!

ETSY LISTINGS

2010-09-07T10:53:00.000-04:00

Two of CHERUBSN listings made it into ETSY treasuries!!

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4c8230beb9e98eefb9f21df6/little-girls-and-birds?index=0

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4c6df36605938eef415f7d38/its-always-spring-time-in-london

LONE'S FOUR

2010-09-03T18:40:00.002-04:00

***Friday September 3rd, 2010***

Tomorrow at 12:12 pm, Lone will be four years old.

I've watched my little fashionista grow before my eyes. It used to be that I got to dress her.

"She's not a doll" her daddy once said. "I know, but she's sort of like one." Said I.

She has taught me so much. There is no doubt, no doubt, that this little girl saved my life. She came at a time when I needed to be grounded, to mature and she came just before the greatest loss of my life.

Daily, she reminds me of how precious life is and how much fun it can all be.

She also makes me terrified knowing that one day she will make her own choices,

go her own way. Away from me.

Just know this little girl. Where ever your wonderful life takes you.

Mommy will always have your back.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LONE

MY GIRLS

2010-08-26T20:48:00.007-04:00

***Thursday August 26th, 2010***

We went away to New Brunswick, P.E.I and Nova Scotia. It was a quick vacation, with a lot of time spent in the car. We escaped a hotel fire and a car crash. Seriously. Now I know why it is so hard to get my guy to travel!

Smyth and Lone spent a lot of time in the car and it wasn't long before the latter was entertaining the little. It filled my heart with such joy to see my two girls interacting with each other. To hear Lone say she loves Smyth and to watch Smyth coo at Lone from her chair. I couldn't have imagined being the mother of two. I grew up alone, content in my solitude most of the time. My step sisters, who came into my life when I was eleven, were great fun, blessings really. But to have created a bond as a child...I hope they love each other forever and realize how lucky they are to have each other.

The clothing is coming along slowly but nicely. The MC Hammer pants are up next....

Cheers!

Swap Party

2010-08-13T22:30:00.004-04:00

***Friday August 13th, 2010***

I had a swap party! Lots of fun. I invited eight friends to bring up to ten items that they were ready to part with. I served lots of treats...yum! Thanks again for your brownies Sara!! And I served white wine, sparkling flavored water, tea and coffee.

People mostly drank the wine...

I found that people were mostly interested in clothing. There were lots of shoes that I wanted, but my feet just keep getting bigger with every baby.

One neat idea, is to have everyone write a little something about a few of their items.

I also invited a friend to introduce us to a body and beauty line she currently sells.

We got to do a foot soak and test products. It was lots of fun and she made some good sales.

I have since been living in the clothes I scored! Can't wait for the next one!

Catching Up Still

2010-08-13T21:39:00.006-04:00

***Friday The 13th***

Maybe it's the date or something, but I'm having loads of trouble trying to upload pics. AND I AM SO BEHIND!! Been busy with this and that. THIS dress for Lone to wear in THAT wedding for her auntie Janet.

Sleepy in her post flower girl dress....

They did a super job with the decorations. I particularly liked the mix of

flowers bought at road side stands set up by the local Amish.

Also, we went to visit Pappy (Lone's grandpa) for his birthday. Felt quite guilty that I went skinny dipping in his pool on his birthday, while he had to work. If ever there is a day that one should be allowed to skinny dip, it is on their birthday. I also felt guilty that I gave him diet products for his birthday (he needs them right now) and then broke down and bought him cake after he hinted about how much he'd been craving it, and Lone kept asking where the cake was (she is quite aware that birthday = cake) So anyway, I went to the local coffee shop and bought him the last slice of cake in the joint. Carrot cake. That's not really that bad is it? He really went on about the cake. I hope he found it in the fridge.

CHERUBSN

2010-08-04T09:14:00.003-04:00

***Wednesday August 4th, 2010***

I am happy to report that the clothing line is finally in motion!

Please stop by my shop and see what we have been up to!

www.etsy.com/shop/cherubsn

Much more to come!

Blogging

2010-07-30T21:39:00.004-04:00

***Friday July 30th, 2010***

Tonight I came across a new blog: nieniedialogues.blogspot.com

This woman, who had a blog beforehand, had over 80% of her body burned in a terrible plane accident. Since the accident, her blog has basically been about her recovery and how it has affected her and her family. I cried reading it and have already read twenty pages tonight.

Here is a bit from Nie's blog:

I asked Mr. Nielson with tears
in my eyes if he could still see me.

He was shocked at the question and slightly confused. But he answered anyway; he said he didn’t compare me to anything especially my appearance before the accident.

Maybe he doesn’t, but I do.

Sometimes I actually scare myself.

Yesterday at the grocery store a woman turned around to me in the
line and with an exhausted look she blurted out:
“Oh, I feel just the way you look!!”

I wanted to curl up and cry in the fetal position right there in isle three. I looked away and tears stung my eyes. I wasn’t prepared to have confirmed to me what I had felt earlier that morning after I had scrubbed my fragile body in the shower until it bled.

Part of the deal I chose, I guess.

I guess I should just suck it up and remember my blessings.

But part of me hurts for outward beauty.

When I lie in my bed as still as can be, I feel like the Stephanie before. Out my eyes I feel just the same. I feel perfect. My skin isn’t strained and my joints don’t rip my thin skin over and over with each movement.

That’s why getting up is hard to do.

Blogs like hers, no doubt, save many lives.

Flower Dress and My Mother

2010-07-29T21:24:00.004-04:00

***Thursday July 29th, 2010***

Today I finished Lone's Flower Girl Dress for my sister Janet's wedding.

Today is also my mother's birthday. She would have been sixty six.

I wish she could see how I have finally taken up her passion for sewing.

That I finally get it and love it, as she did.

For this project I used a woman's vintage slip, added a lining (pure hell), belt to tie it in, straps and fun embellishments.

Lone has already threatened to not wear it, but luckily for me, she be a slave to the candy.

If you like it please let me know.

My biggest fan, no longer can.

BIRTHDAYS

2010-07-29T10:27:00.003-04:00

***Thursday July 29th,2010***

Here are some lovely things I plan on buying Lone for her birthday...

Don't even try to stop me!

Love the gold!

And for this happy face...

Too cute!

Cheers!

Cover Your Bits With Cloth Bits

2010-07-28T22:04:00.003-04:00

***Tuesday July 28th,2010***

Tonight, when Miss Smyth finally gave into the sleep fairies, I had a nice hot bath with bubbles. I have not had a bath by myself in over two months. I loved, loved, loved it!

Today we did this:

Ain't she a beauty!

Been so exited about this project because not only is it a great idea, but I got to sew while Lone played with the scraps. We would have enjoyed this project much earlier if I had any black ink in my printer.

Big YOU ROCK going out to the creative momma behind http://thismamamakesstuff.com for creating these little guys and this fabulous project.

Lone loved this one. You can get the download here.

Later in the day, I even took three of the little cuties and a bag of material bits to my girlfriend's house for her son to enjoy. Yes I know the ribbon is pink. I used what was on hand. Boys look good in pink.

I will probably do this project again for Lone's birthday. Maybe draw some sombreros and get the kids to decorate them, since it's a fiesta theme party.

Graphicsfairy.blogspot.com is a great place to get free prints, if you cannot draw like yours truly.

Yes, not even a sombrero.

Hmmm

2010-07-25T20:37:00.003-04:00

***Sunday July 25th, 2010***

Today Lone met a lovely little girl in the park and they played together and bonded and the little girl's mother and I bonded. Then another, slightly older, little girl appeared, dressed in a lime green and purple, Tinker Bell dress and for Lone, the first little girl was forgotten. Now Lone will not stop talking about her new friend "Tinker Bell". Refusing to be thwarted, I took the phone number of first little girl's mother, to hang out in the future. I made a point of mentioning that perhaps our girls should dress up in their fairy costumes when we meet up.

My daughter, so shallow and clothing obsessed. Wherever did she get it from?

T-Shirt Pants

2010-07-25T07:54:00.004-04:00

***Sunday July 25th, 2010***

I've been making Smyth clothing.

I'm like a little girl dressing her Barbie.

These fun, bright yellow pants are made from a recycled t-shirt and vintage fabric for the patches.

She's been living in them and doesn't seem to mind.

Homemade Gift Tagsd

2010-07-23T09:06:00.003-04:00

***Friday July 23rd, 2010***

Whenever I need a card, I always go to the expert...

Lone is great about decorating or making cards.

She loves getting involved in any form of gift giving.

I bought a pack of tags from a stationary shop; and look at the wonderful gift tags we made. They are all ready to be used for the next gift giving event that we attend!

Homemade cards are so much nicer to receive and may even be lucky enough to make it onto a fridge or be kept, packed away in a box to be looked at in the future.

Thanks!

Popsicles

2010-07-20T08:30:00.003-04:00

***Tuesday July 20th, 2010***

My daughter loves freezies and constantly asks for them. I can't stand all the garbage that goes into a store bought popsicles, so I make my own. It's really easy!

All you need is a blender, fruit and either honey or maple syrup. You can also add sugar, but I try to avoid it when real maple syrup has so much good stuff in it. Just blend the fruit, I also add a bit of plain yogurt, and then add as much of the sweet stuff as you need, then freeze.

Currently, we are picking raspberries from our garden and then turning them into popsicles. It makes a fun activity out of making the popsicles. Next, we are going to go pick strawberries locally and make strawberry popsicles.

Try it, I'm sure your little one will love it. Also, Ikea has great popsicle molds, if you need them.

Paper Me

2010-07-18T16:42:00.002-04:00

***Sunday July 18th, 2010***

Lone and I made a paper person. A "paper me" as she called it. I tore down some old, paper blinds and they were the perfect size to trace around Lone's body. At first she just wanted to colour the person in grey, I think that she's going through her "grey period", but I convinced her to add more colour, which she did so reluctantly.

We also went to a street sale in the town of Port Hope. There's a lovely kid's store there called Higglety Pigglety, run by an equally lovely lady named Debbie. Debbie put out snacks and games for the kids to play and gave out freebies. She hopes to do more activity nights in her shop. I really like this western Tee Pee that was in her shop, that all the kids, including Lone were drawn to. It would be great in our living room, both for Lone to play with, but also as a place to store her wandering or discarded toys.

I'm always looking for a place to hide toys within reach.

Thanks for stopping by!

Another Cool Hat

2010-07-14T09:33:00.003-04:00

***July 14th***

Lone was such a fan of Smyth's hat that we did her blue cap with a tartan heart and some zig zag stitches.

She wasn't up to modeling it though...

Hat Revamp

2010-07-14T09:26:00.003-04:00

***Wednesday July 14th, 2010***

A momma craft! Lone went out with her daddy and Smyth was sleeping so I had a chance to do a little sewing. My girlfriend gave me a bag of unwanted clothes that we are both hoping I can do something cool with.

This cotton, white hat for a newborn was in the bag. Already a very cool design, I added an apple, that I cut out of a child's vintage apron. I used a zig zag stitch to attach it to the hat and added two rows of yellow stitches to the visor for fun.

Looks pretty cute I think. Anyone can do this. You really don't need any sewing skills for this type of work.
But what a difference it makes to a hat!

Flower Princess

2010-07-14T09:19:00.002-04:00

***Wednesday July 14th, 2010***

We made a fairy flower crown!

So easy. Just use a brown paper bag. Cut it into a crown shape and add flowers. Would be lots of fun hunting for the flowers together but my little one refused. She was more interested in hanging out with her Ya Ya (grand daddy), whom was visiting.

But, she couldn't resist partaking when she saw the plate of flowers...

My little Princess! Such a camera lover!
Cheers!

Chocolate and Pom Poms

2010-07-12T12:35:00.003-04:00

***Monday July 12th, 2010***

Saturday was sushi and Sunday I was too tired to post. But here is what we did!

I love zinnias!!

So Lone and I decided to make our own flowers.

These pom pom flowers are all the rage these days! Great for weddings, birthdays and even bedrooms and really easy to make for an older child or adult. We decided to make them for Lone's bedroom.

While there are tons of sites that will tell you how to make them. I went with good old Martha.

I must say, the smaller ones turned out rounder and nicer.

Smyth thought they were rather fetching.

While Lone was too young to actually make the pom poms, she loved counting the tissue paper and picking the colours. She played with the scraps as well.

*************************************************************************************

Also yesterday, we took chocolate...

And turned it into this! (With the help of peanut butter).

So easy to make even when your only oven is this convection oven! Yes, it's true, we have no oven in our house and only noticed the day we signed the deal. It works beautifully though, considering I left a brand new beauty, at my old house.
We sourced the recipe from Bakerella. Only five ingredients and Lone could do most of the prep by herself. Just remember to warn about the hot bowl after heating the chocolate. :( Poor girl.
So, so yummy!!

Button Man

2010-07-09T19:46:00.005-04:00

***Thursday July 9th, 2010***

Say hello to my little friend.

Button Man! He rocks and is very easy to make. I found him in this library book. Libraries are great places to score cool craft ideas.

First we picked our buttons. I have lots because of my button bands.

I have to admit Lone got overwhelmed by having to thread the buttons. I was so impressed by how well she did though! Alas, She hid one of my button jars in protest. Still looking for it.
Directs, cause I'm too tired to write them out. All you need is lots of buttons and two pieces of string 18 inches long.

More directions... Really easy honest.

The ones in the magazine are a little more vibrant in colour than mine.

Enjoy!

Boys Threads

2010-07-09T17:59:00.005-04:00

***Thursday July 9th,2010***

My girlfriend, the mother of two lovely boys, Landon and Kale, does not think there are cool clothes out there for little boys. BUT, Etsy is full of great and unique, boy's clothing! Mine to be included in this list soon, I hope!

I need to show her how wrong she is...

These cool pants for a one-year-old cost only $14 at:

www.etsy.com/shop/shortees

Another Etsy shop, www.etsy.com/shop/smallbeansbaby has great boy gear!

Oh Jack Sprat! Oh Jack Sprat!

I am such a fan of this designer, who makes clothes especially for little boys, that I contacted her to see if she would do some custom stuff for me if I had a boy. But alas, my beautiful Smyth did not want to be a boy.
She doesn't have a lot in her shop currently, so you can look through her sold items and she will be more than happy to make what you like from the list. www.etsy.com/shop/jacksprat

God, her clothes make me want to have a son!

I think I have proven my point Lee....

Recycling Kid's Artwork

2010-07-08T19:29:00.006-04:00

***Thursday July 8th, 2010***

Today Lone had Montessori, so I only needed a short project for us to do this evening.

If you are anything like us, your child produces a lot of masterpieces. We love all of Lone's creations, but there is so much of it! We can't throw it out, it's too special to us...ok maybe the occasional piece does end up in the trash, but only because there is just no storage room left! Anyway these heart garlands that we made from the bundle of artwork hidden in Dale's piano bench, turned out super.

All you need is a pile of kid art, scissors, a needle and either embroidery floss or any string you can thread with.

Lone is too young to cut the hearts, but she was able to pick what their order on the thread would be.

Not much of a poser today.

We cut hearts in a couple of sizes. Then I thread the needle with yellow floss and poked the needle in through one corner of a heart and back out through the other side.

We live in bathing suits these days!

Lone decided that Smyth could have the little, heart garland, in her nook. Such a kind child I have.

And the big one went above Lone's big girl bed.

I love the little faces.

Great craft for Valentine's day. While she wasn't too keen on having her art cut up at first, Lone now can't wait to make more for other people, which means the pile will be getting lower, which makes me happy!!

Surviving Summer

2010-07-07T11:45:00.006-04:00

***Wednesday July 7th, 2010***

Now that we have officially taken Lone out of her old Montessori and deposited her in a new one that does not run through the summer, I realize it's time for this momma to step up with the fun. I'm going to try to come up with or search out a cool project to do with her every day. Today it was cutting out clothes from magazines and dressing her lovely dolly, that daddy Dale drew.

True, it does seem like we shopped in the dance club, pick up section of the magazine, but I didn't have much of a selection. It's fun to watch her dress the doll and to see what she thinks looks good on her.

On a weirder note, Dale put up one of those free standing, hanging lines for me and I was so delighted. Seriously! As I hung clothes, I felt positively wonderful doing my chore.

Where has my coolness gone? I'm beginning to believe it is slowly seeping out of me, one day at a time.

BEAN BAG FUN

2010-06-23T11:35:00.003-04:00

***Wednesday, June 23rd, 2010***

I must admit I am a neat freak. I clean some part of my house every day. Not because I want to, I hate cleaning!! But there always seems to be dirt and animal hair lying around somewhere, usually in plain site. I try to make up for my need to clean up after everyone, by making it a fun environment in our home. A fun environment, where an irobot vacuum is constantly humming.

We've discovered that bean bags are a blast.

I guess that's why they've been around for generations!

We bought these "FatBoy" bean bags from our friend Micheal's store "Michael Thomas", in Port Hope. They are a big hit with Lone and her friends and Dale uses them too. Now that I am without my baby in the belly, I'm sure I'll be using them more often, as well.
Smyth really likes this little bean bag chair that we have in the kitchen. I owe the idea and thanks to my friend Sara, whose four month old Audrey, was the first to baby test it. It molds really nicely to a baby's form and allows them to sit up.

SMYTH DALE MULLINS

2010-06-20T20:55:00.002-04:00

***Sunday June 20th, 2010***

Been very busy enjoying our new, beautiful baby girl, Smyth. She arrived on June 2nd at noon.

Just waiting on my ink and then "Cherubsn" clothing to follow...

Old Man and Cool Kid's Bathing Suit

2010-05-29T19:52:00.005-04:00

***Saturday, May 29th, 2010***

Have not been feeling great lately. Mostly just hanging in there, waiting to have this little baby. Tagged along to the park with Lone and Dale yesterday. There was another little girl at the park, about a year older than Lone, so of course Daddy was forgotten or "Dale" as he is called. The girls played happily together for a while, but I guess ignoring Dale and not allowing him to help her on the swing was not enough for Lone, she actually heckled him and made fun of him to impress her friend. "Hey old man!" she yelled to him, from her precarious perch on the big girl swing.

I bought this diva bathing suit for Lone on our trip to Mexico. It also came with bikini bottoms. Some may think it's too much, but I just couldn't resist it!

You can find it at www.myskova.mx

Glow

2010-05-26T20:13:00.004-04:00

***Wednesday May 26th, 2010***

The other night I found myself full of enough energy to turn on my sewing machine. Usually sewing is a day time thing, done during the days that Lone is at school. This particular night, the minute the little light came on, I felt my my mother (who has been gone over a year), there with me. I then remembered that she had often sewed in the evenings, with the very same sewing machine that I am now attempting to master.

I've often wondered if she would like my sewing creations. She herself, was quite talented on the sewing machine and it was only a day or so before, that I had pulled out the beautiful, turquoise and yellow baby bag, that she had made for me just before Lone was born.

As I studied the bag and her handy work, I noticed a little rectangle of white cotton near the mouth of the bag and peering closely, could just make out the faint inscription, "NANA".

I'm going to try to turn my machine on at night a lot more often.

Clothes

2010-05-20T18:11:00.003-04:00

***Thursday May 21st,2010***

Won't be long now...

Sprinkle

2010-05-19T18:48:00.006-04:00

***Wednesday May 19th, 2010***

Lone and I were lucky enough to have a baby "Sprinkle" thrown for us this past weekend. It was a lot of fun and the presents sure were welcomed. Lone was so spoiled that I think she might even be more accepting of her baby sister's arrival...at least if we remind her that she wouldn't have the beautiful fairy costume or baby "My Little Pony", if it wasn't for her sister.

Wedding Blanket

2010-05-17T21:10:00.006-04:00

***Monday May 17th, 2010***

I really regret not knowing about Moroccan Wedding Blankets while I was living there.

I don't care how heavy or costly they may in fact be. I know myself, and I would have found a way to drag one home with me. Trust me, I'm the girl who carried a large and delicate, bouquet of paper, mexican flowers through two airports, while very pregnant and with a very grouchy, three-year-old. I am also the girl that while backpacking, carried a large Mexican plate all the way to the border of Panama and back up to Belize. One of these blankets would definitely

have some how found its way home with me.

I will not rest until I have figured out how to both afford and obtain such a blanket, which is believed to ward of evil and protect its owner. I will have one!!!!!!

Unless, I go into labour shortly, of course. Which, I realize, is more likely than my owning one of these marvelous creations, any time soon.

THE AUDREY SKIRT

2010-05-12T09:57:00.005-04:00

***Wednesday May 12th, 2010***

Audrey, is the kind of baby that likes to get noticed.

She likes girlie things like the colour pink,

but she is also a serious girl with serious taste!

I was lucky enough to be there when she was born,

and trust me, she also has a lot to say!

I created this skirt from a vintage slip for and with Audrey in mind.

For a beautiful girlie girl, with a lot to say!

2010-05-03T09:41:00.003-04:00

***Monday May 3rd, 2010***

A few weeks ago a friend stopped by, whom I have not seen in quite some time. I was totally dazzled by his new look. The pencil mustache, comb over and short shorts, were so drastically different from the young punk look that I remembered from his last visit. After he left, my guy explained to me that our friend was obviously sporting a "hipster" look. I had never heard of this look, so he emailed me this site: www.latfh.com Apparently, there really is a new fashion movement that is part 80's and part 20's gangster and little bit revenge of the nerds. Kind of like meeting someone that was half Napoleon Dynamite's brother and half of his uncle. Or part Prince, Part Richard Simmons and part Al Capone. Really I could go on and on with the examples....Anyway, now I am seeing hipsters everywhere!

Must say though, so glad I am not dating right now.

Chocolate Factory

2010-04-30T19:57:00.003-04:00

***Friday April 30th, 2010***

Wow.........

I always thought that it would be smart to end up with a chef, a stock broker or even someone who gave a mean massage! But these days, in the new house, with all of it's space and white walls, I'm pretty fortunate to be with an amazingly talented artist. Look at this beauty. It made it onto my wall yesterday afternoon and I can't stop staring at it. Lone is certain that one day, she will ride the great, orange beast. It is called "The Chocolate Factory".

There is nothing like great art to activate great dinning table conversation.

LET THEM EAT CAKE

2010-04-28T09:37:00.005-04:00

***Wednesday April 28th, 2010***

I've really been into Danish fashion recently and it's usually hard to drag me away from their children's styles. Really hoping to Take Lone to Denmark on our next big trip. However, LET THEM EAT CAKE, a British line of romantic, punk and whimsical kids clothing, has left me dying to get Lone into some of their amazing duds! How can people dress their kids in boring every day clothes when this type of stuff is availalbe?!

FOOD FIGHT T

2010-04-25T08:15:00.002-04:00

***Sunday April 25th***

Lone tested out the new "Food Fight" T-shirt at her best friend Patience' birthday party yesterday! The shirt and the party held up beautifully!

CHERUBSN

2010-04-23T16:23:00.004-04:00

***Friday April 23rd 2010***

Well after much thought and some professional suggestions, I've decided to change the name of the new line to:

It makes sense since so many people already associate me with this name. A little bit good, a little bit naughty.

Of course, my favorite model is ready to help me show off the new creations. Here she is in the apron skirt....