Auction Project

Friday night is our auction for my two older bugs school. A few months ago I got talked into helping with my older sons class project. There are two other 1st grade classes so I wouldn't be doing the whole thing by myself so I figured what the heck. The other two moms and I are new to the school so we really wanted to WOW them with the 1st grade project. Needless to say this wasn't going to be too difficult considering that last year each class did a platter. We decided that we would do a mirror. Not just any old mirror, a very whimsical mirror. We had an area pottery store make, by hand, tiles to fit around a 16x20 frame. Then we had her make 24 flowers for each child in the class. I must say these were the most intricate looking flowers I have ever seen. Her attention to detail was outstanding! The pictures below do not do her flowers justice. We also had her make a handful of leaves to place around the mirror. Next, we took all the flowers up to the school and had each child paint a flower. They had such a good time. I was amazed at how each child really took their time. We were afraid that a few would just slop the paint on. We were, needless to say, pleasantly surprised. After we took the flowers home and touched up a few we took them back to the pottery store to have them fired and glazed. The past two days I have been gluing the tiles on the front of my frame and placing the flowers on top of the tiles. We were really worried about how we were going to make each of these stick. The tiles were not a big deal we just used liquid nails for this. This stuff definitely did the trick. The flowers were a little more tricky. We used a glue called E-6000. If you ever need to glue ceramic on top of ceramic use this stuff.

I must mention that the tiles for the 3 mirrors are entirely different. As you can see, mine was fashioned off of Mackenzie-Childs the Courtly Check pattern. The 2nd one has a zebra print on the tiles. The last one painted her frame white and then painted her tiles black to give it a harlequin look. We really wanted them to be the same, but have that hint of individualilsm. I'll try to post pictures of the other 2 sometime.

I'll keep you informed on how much we raise for each mirror.

Easter Outfits

I am what you would call a planner--especially when it comes to planning my children's outfits for Easter. Seriously, if you don't pick out their outfits and buy them early, all the cute things will be sold out! Little N is easy, being only 4 months old. I bought him this cute blue romper from Orient Expressed, with his name monogrammed on the front. (His name isn't Carson--this is just the example for the web site).

As for Little J--he's a little harder and more pickier. I have to buy him things that I know that he will wear and like. I don't want to hear any whining on Easter! He's going to wear these seersucker pants from Baby Gap, along with the white oxford from Crew Cuts. Crew Cuts also has seersucker pants, but I really don't want to spend $50 on a pair of pants which will most likely end up with Easter chocolate and candy all over them! Now, this is where I need some help. I want him to wear a really cute belt. I found some at A Tierney. They have cute baseball and soccer belts which are perfect for Little J because he's so into sports right now. He's getting ready to start soccer, so I'm kind of leaning towards the soccer one. However, does anyone know of anymore belts for children that are really cute? I like the ribbon style for the outfit that he's going to wear. So, let me know if you guys know of any other sites I can shop for Little J. Thanks!

Great Jacket

I love this jacket from Anthropologie. I was going to order it today but, it is already on back order until May. I'm thinking I should go ahead and order it before it is sold out. This is a type of jacket that you could dress up or down. I don't know about you guys but, I'm ready for spring clothes.

Picture Time

About a month ago we took black and white pictures of Little N--you know the ones, where the baby is naked and the rest of the family is wearing black? Well they turned out really sweet and surprisingly, Little N and Little J cooperated and I can't wait to frame the pictures. I found these frames from Exposures. I think I only want one though--I think all four would be just a little too "much" for me. I like all four I just don't want all four to hang. So, I think I like the Love one and put a pictures of Little N in it....would love to hear anyone's opinion.

Candle Holders

If you are like me, you have way too many candles and not enough decorative places to put them. I love candles. However, I don't like when you burn the ones in the glass jars and they get black along the rim from the smoke. Therefore, I'm always looking for neat looking holders to place them in. I came across these adorable candleholders and thought they were perfect. I love anything painted with a rubbed finish.

St. Patrick's Day Fun

Is it too early to talk about St. Patrick's Day? It is the next holiday, right? Anyway, I spotted these great St. Patty's day clothes for all of your little Irish kids. But, they could also work if you aren't Irish, and just want something fun to dress your kids in on St. Patrick's day. The two T's are from, Cafe Press and they also have bibs and other available styles. You can purchase the Apple Dots Binker from Mamas and Munchkins. I myself am not lucky (heh, heh) enough to be Irish. But, I do know how to knock back some green beer. My parents are going to be in NYC for St. Patrick's day--how fun is that going to be? Big H told my mom they needed to go to McSorley's, the oldest saloon in NYC, on the 17th. Big H and I went there about 4 years ago and it's totally a "bar-bar". They only serve beer and they will totally give you a "look" if you order anything other than a cold one. In fact, when you do order your beer you better be read because they actually give you two at a time! Man, to be in NYC on the 17th......

By the way, does anyone know how I can post my pictures better? I have no idea on how to make them looks good with my post..I try and try and hopelessly fail! Please, some one help me!!

S #2

Spring Is Just Around the Corner

Each new day is one step closer to Spring and I can hardly wait. The past week here has really been awesome in terms of the weather. My kids have actually been able to go outside and play without putting on 3 layers of clothing. I thought these adorable lawn decorations would get everybody ready for spring decorating. Heres to continued warm weather and NO MORE SNOW!!!!

Silhouette Stationary

I am loving this personalized stationary from Petite Prints. All you have to do is send in a picture of your kids, family, or pet and they will make everything from note cards, calling cards, and even paper weights. If you are feeling really crafty. You can order a needlepoint kit and make your very own silhoutte pillow of each of your kids.

Movie Freaks

My husband and I are movie freaks lately. I guess you could say we're a little loserish. We used to belong to Neflix and we would watch like 2 to 3 movies a week. But, no, they weren't getting our movies fast enough to us, so we joined Blockbuster, so we could actually take a movie back and get a new one that day. So in the last five days, I watched The Departed, Hollywood Land, Half Nelson and Marie Antoinette. (I guess maybe we should get a life.) Anyway, The Departed and Half Nelson were amazing. The Departed was a great epic like movie, and Half Nelson was a great story as well, and Ryan Gosling was amazaing! It was such a better acting job than The Notebook. He played a heroin addict who teaches 8th grade, and he did such a great job that at times, I could feel the tension between him and the other characters. He is up for an Oscar and totally deserves it!

As for Marie Antoinette, Ifelt like it dragged in some parts, but over all it was pretty good. I was so into the movie, that afterwards I had to do a Google search of her to find out more! (Did I mention yet, that I think I need a life?) So, that was my movie filled weekend.
The weather here is supposed to be perfect all week, so I'm looking forward to spending some time outside, and maybe away from the TV. :). I found these sidewalk paints made by Crayola, that I think Little J and I are going to do this afternoon. I'll keep you posted on our masterpieces!

S #2

My Music

I've seen this going around the blogger world--apparently you press random in your Itunes, and then fill in the blanks...

Opening Credits: Devil Went Down to Georgia, Charlie Daniels Band
First Day of School: Speed of Sound, Coldplay
Falling In Love: Round Here, Counting Crows
Fight Song: Monkey Man, Rolling Stones
Breaking Up: I Hope You Dance, Lee Anne Womack,
Prom: Blue Sky, Allman Brothers
Life: Crazy Love, Van Morrison
Driving: All for You, Janet Jackson
Flashback: Burning Love, Elvis
Getting Back Together:Neon Moon, Brooks and Dunn
Wedding:Bitter Sweet, Big Head Todd
Party: Do You Realize, Flaming Lips
Birth of a Child: Billie Jean, Michael Jackson
Death Scene: I Feel Good, James Brown
Funeral Song: Queen of Hearts, Juice Newton
Ending Credits: Love and Happines, Al Green

For the record, I didn't download the Janet Jackson son, that song is courtesy of Big H. He even admits he has horrible taste in music, so it's OK if you think so as well. (Seriously, he downloaded, Humpty Dance. )

S#2

Father's Day Gift

I know I know most of you are wondering why is she talking about Father's Day when that is all the way in June. I just wanted to tell you guys about a wonderful photographer that I came across last night. We were talking about what we got for our husbands for V's Day and one of my friends told us about an area photographer that comes to your house and takes pictures of your family she then takes those pictures and puts them on a slideshow set to music. It is so amazing. The pictures that I saw were such candid shots of my friend's children. Which I feel are the best kind. She totally captures the true beauty of each child. I must say not every photographer can do that. The name of the company is Artsy Phartsy. Isn't that such a catchy name? I can't wait to get my session booked. I just have to find a time to do it when my husband isn't home since this is a Father's Day gift.

SIGG Bottles

Just wanted to say thank you to all of the bloggers out there who commented--we appreciate it!
Now, for my blog today. Because I consider myself "pro environment" and all of my political, ethical and moral beliefs lead me to try to become more earth friendly, I discovered these new products for children. They are called SIGG bottles. They have a baked-on inner lining (exceeding FDA requirements) which ensures no metallic taste, no taste transfer like juice to milk, and no leaching of plastic into your beverage--as sippy cups do.

Also, SIGG bottles can be re-used over and over again to help reduce waste caused by disposable packaging. Hence, they are very earth friendly. Plus, they come in great designs that I think kids will really like. They come in three different sizes, so even your smalles drinker can get in on the fun! You can read about the SIGG bottles on their website and purchase them from Swiss Knife Shop. This site offers free shipping too--an added bonus!!

What a great and simple way to do your part in helping preserve mother earth!

S#2

Hello? Is anyone there? Hello?

OK--you know who you are. You come on our blog and you read our posts, but you say NOTHING! You may not have anything to say sometimes, but I know that somedays you have to have SOMETHING to say. We love, love the people who comment-- thanks, you know who you are too:) While we do appreciate eveyone who comes on our blog to read and look, we would enjoy you oh so much more if you would drop us a line every once in a while. We don't need your life story or anything, just a "hello", or a line to show you care. :) (Come on S#3, I know you have to have something to say to us!) Remember, we are not just writing for our pleasure, we are also writing for you pleasure and enjoyment too! So, who is going to be the first to comment?

SORRY

For those of you who have tried to open the Bella Notte web-site it is now fixed. I apologize for sending you guys to a sex party site. All is back to normal.

S#1

Webkinz

If any of you have a little girl you probably already know the new craze. If not, you need to check out Webkinz. Local shops around here can hardly keep them in stock. One shop sold 72 bull dogs in one day. It reminds me a little of the Beanie Babies of the past. Well we jumped on the bad wagon and got one for our little bug #2. Supposedly, you can jump on the net and play games with your newly acquired pet. Plus you can play games with your friend's new pets as well. You can decorate a room for your little pet on your computer and buy things for it in computer land. I am hoping that this is not going to be just another stuffed animal that sits and acquires dust. We will soon see.

S#1

We Have the Flu

The flu has invaded our house. My little girl was diagnosed with the flu today. I really thought that this year we were going to elude the flu. I guess the flu had other ideas. While I was snuggling with little bug #2 I found that I loved my bedding more and more. I don't know about you guys, but I found it really difficult to find that perfect bedding. I looked for, I kid you not, 6 months. I happened upon this brand called Bella Notte. They have practically any color you would ever want. On top of that there are many combinations that you can go with. It was a bit overwhelming to choose what I wanted on-line. Thankfully, I found a local store here that carried it. Since I am a visual person, I was glad that I could put my color schemes together in person. I have really been loving the color chocolate brown so I made my coverlet just that.

This is the 1st picture. (For some reason I can't post the picture after what I say). The picture in the middle is my two Euro Shams in that exact color. It is really a deep red in person. The 3rd picture is my next Euro Sham, but the color is chocolate and not the blue and the white. Last but not least, my dust ruffle is a linen material in chocolate. I need to add a couple of other throws, but I haven't figured out what to do next. I was thinking maybe something in gold. I figured I can always change my color scheme with my Euros if I ever get tired of the red and the brown. The best part about Bella Notte is that it is all WASHABLE!!! Did I say that right? You bet I did. Even the silks you ask? EVERYTHING IS WASHABLE!!! If you ever consider purchasing Bella Notte. I recommend price shopping. The local store here was a little more than Layla Grace. I even found a discount code plus free shipping.

Hopefully tomorrow all will be well. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the flu doesn't come near my other two bugs. Especially little bug #3. As I reported earlier, he is getting tubes on Wednesday and I don't want anything coming between us and the tubes. Until tomorrow.

S#1

I Deserve Some Flats

Big H made it bag from Las Vegas late, late last night, and needless to say I'm a little pooped today. He usually does Little N's 11:00 feeding so I can get some sleep, but for the last three nights I've been doing it. Whew, this just confirms that I like my sleep. Anyway, I think he had fun and it's good to have him back. However, seeing that he had a fun-filled weekend trip away with the boys, and I was here at home slaving away and raising his kids, don't you think I at least deserve something? I thought so. So, I'm in the market for some new flats. Above are the three I have my eyes on. What does everyone think? I can't decide. I like them all, you know? However, if anyone has anymore ideas on where I can buy some cute flats, let me know, there is always room for more suggestions!

Needlepoint Time

I finally got my little bug #3's stocking canvas in. I ordered it a little before Christmas hoping to be finished by Christmas 2007. I just hope I have enough time to finish it. The canvas is hand-painted by Strictly Christmas. They don't have an official web-site, but if you can find their work on line you will see that each one is exquisitely done. I finished by older 2 bugs stockings about 3 years ago. They just take so much time and energy, but the outcome is well worth it. If you love to needlepoint check out Strictly Christmas you will be glad you did.

SS #1

Friday Morning

Well, despite Big H being in Las Vegas, the morning went pretty well. I fed, dressed and managed to get two kids in the car this morning before 9:00 am. I dropped off Little J at Mother's Day Out and then Little N and I headed to Old Navy to see what they had in store. And I must say, I was pleasently surprised! They are having a 25% off sale on all of their kids and baby clothing. So if you plan on going, GO NOW, because you know how picked over Old Navy can get...... Little J needs so many new things for spring and summer! He's outgrown everything from last year. I picked out some cute little madras shorts for him and two polos and these cute flip-flops. I couldn't find a picture of the shorts online, but they are really cute and can't wait to see him in them. One of the polo shirts is pink (Big H will just have to deal with it.)

As for Little N, well he gets a lot of his older brother's clothes, so he didn't get a lot today. I just picked up one cute little polo for him. It's blue and chocolate brown striped (couldn't find it online for a picture). Speaking of Little N getting all of his older brother's clothes, I was going through Little J's 6-12 month clothing the other day and it really made me sad. I can remember when he used to wear all of those clothes! I had specific memory of Little J in just about everything I came across. Now Little N will be wearing them and will have outgrown them by the end of the summer....time marches on I guesss. They are right when they say that your children really do grow right before your eyes without you even realizing it!

S#2

Sin City

So, Big H is going to Las Vegas this weekend--without the family, mind you. Yeah, he's going with his friends for a long weekend....must be nice. I get to stay here with the kids in 30 degree weather while he's off in sunny Las Vegas playing golf, drinking cocktails, and who knows what else! Man, I'm annoyed. Which, got me thinking. Here are some other things that I'm totally annoyed with today:

the weather---I feel like I'm living in Russia
store clerks--that's right lady, I have a three year old and a baby--like it or not, I really don't give a damn.
service engine lights in cars--mine is on right now. Great.
three year olds that won't take naps--mine is upstairs just playing. I can hear him as I write. Please just nap for like 30 minutes, that's all I need....

Suffice it to say, I'm a little crabby today. Anyway, I hope everyone else is doing great, and I'll definately try to do better tomorrow!

S#2

Tubes

We found out today that my little bug #3 is getting tubes in his ears next week. Which is such a good thing. Since Oct. he has had an ear infection 1-2 times each month. Which means he has been on an antibiotic each of those times too. I think that he has been to the Dr. more in his short little 17 months of life than my other two kids combined. You may say"I bet he is such a fussy baby with his ears and his allergies etc., etc.". I must say he is an incrediably happy baby. He has such a unique quality to him that I am unable to put my finger on right now, but one day I will know. Sister #3 believes that God has very important things for him in his future.

Luckily the Dr. performing the surgery is a good friend to our family. So he is somebody we trust and adore. Funny as this may sound I am kinda of looking forward to the surgery. Excited that he won't feel pressure in his ears anymore and that he will be able to hear normally,instead of hearing like he is under water all the time. Right now he only says maybe 2-3 words. Which breaks my heart seeing that my oldest was having a conversation with me by this time. I know I know he is the 3rd and sometimes they talk later, but I have to think that a little bit of his delay in speech is due to his ears. Our Dr. did say that his speech will change dramatically after his tubes are in place. How exciting is that. I'll keep you informed on the outcome.

S#1

Valentine's Gifts

You can find these really cute Valentine's themed gifts for your little ones at Psycho Baby. They have other great things as well, if you're "in" to the type of style they sell. For example: Children's Vans, Small Paul and (my favorite)vintage T's.

Big H and I stumbled upon the store when we visited Chicago and bought both our children something. I even bought Bug #3 a shirt that says "Mack Daddy". All children receive so many compliments whenever they wear the clothes.

S#2

How Would You Go On?

Today has been such a hard day for me. You see, one of my friends lost her husband today. Early this morning he was involved in a car crash that killed him and one other person in another car. They have two small children that do not understand exactly what has happened to their beautiful little family. She is holding up amazingly well. I must say better than I would under this unfortunate circumstances.

It seems just when you think it is hard with a sick child, a jerky husband, or life just not going your way. You watch somebody like my friend handle something so tragic so well and with such grace. I just puts so much into perspective and it makes you realize that life is short and one needs to enjoy each day to the very fullest. Who knows we may not be here tomorrow.

S#1

Our First Tag!

Thanks for the very first Tag, Little Cottage! I was pretty relieved to receive this tag seeing that I really had NOTHING to blog about today. This tag is from S#2, I think S#1 will be doing her list later. I tag Kerry from More, More, More.

1. If you could build a house anywhere, where would it be? In the country, somewhere in New England

2.What's your favorite article of clothing? my tall boots

3.Favorite physical feature of the opposite sex? teeth (you have to have good teeth)

4.What's the last CD that you bought? Curious George soundtrack

5.Where's your favorite place to be? traveling with Big H

6. Where is your least favorite place to be? grocery store

7.What's your favorite place to be massaged? feet

8.Strong in mind or strong in body? I think both, but most days I would say body.

9.What time do you wake up in the morning? around 7:00

10. What is your favorite kitchen appliance? dishwasher

11.What makes you really angry? people who lie!

12.If you could play any instrument, what would it be? Probably the piano...

13. Favorite color? Don't really have one, but I do have a lot of black clothing, although that isn't my favorite color....

14.Which do you prefer...sports car or SUV? SUV---it makes me feel safe

15. Do you believe in an afterlife? yes

16.Favorite children's book? Goodnight Moon

17. What is your favorite season? Fall---I love the change that fall brings with it

18. Your least favorite household chore? laundry!!!

19.If you could have one super power, what would it be? Ability to be invisible--

20.If you have a tattoo, what is it? Sad to say I have a sun on my left shoulder blade--this was done during my wilder days in college--in fact I got in New Orleans..no, I wasn't drunk, shockingly.

21.Can you juggle? no.

22. The one person from your past that you wish you could go back and talk to? Grandpa Jack

23. What's your favorite day? Saturday

24. What's in the trunk of your car? stroller, package of diapers

25. Which do you prefer, sushi or hamburger? hamburger




Sunday, February 04, 2007

MARKA Handbags

I'm loving these MARKA bags! Even better, I noticed in Big H's highschool alumni magazine that he went to highschool with the Co-Founder. They have smart, stylish and different handbags (and remember, we are always on the lookout for different things!) It should also be noted that the Co-Founders named each handbag after an ex-boyfriend-pretty clever I thought. They have all different kinds of bags from laptop bags to diaper bags. Plus, their winter 2007 collection is already online! The bags are available at different stores across the country but nothing in my neck of the woods!

Introducing the new Mackenzie-Childs

Just a quick blog before I head off to my sons b-ball game. I am loving the new Mackenzie-Childs that is out right now. There are more new pieces that I didn't even show. Do you think I could get away with putting the sconce/mirror in my daughters room? I need to find a way without letting my husband know. My advice is to go to the Mackenzie-Childs site today. You'll be glad you did.

S#1

This One's for You S #3

Fishs Eddy have these great "Brooklyn" dishes and other great dishes with themes such as: Central Park, Alice & Wonderland, and for all of you political junkies even dishes with democrat or republican presidents on them. They are really cute, and S#3, I thought you could get Gallagher, I mean the W, one of the Brooklyn plates :)

We miss you terribly, S #3 and hope to see you soon and actually meet the W.

S #2

Cute personalized tees

I found these cute t's from Alex and Jett
right before Christmas. I thought they were so adorable that I got one for my nephew and my little bug #3. There are different from your everyday monogrammed shirt. You can personalize the whole shirt too. It has their name, the town they were born, plus the year they were born. There are even different colors that you can make the trucks or dinosaurs. I highly recommend this company.

S#1

Right before Christmas I found this wall frame at a local store. They are different from your everyday frame. I have this exact one except it is in black.

There are many colors and sayings to choose from. Keep a kleenex handy when reading some of the quotes. You can find them at Sugarboo Designs.

S#1

1154 Lill Studio

About three years ago my in-laws traveled to Chicago to visit their son. I was pregnant with Little J at the time, and when they returned they gave me a diaper bag from the 1154 Lill Studio. http://1154lill.com They have so many wonderful bags, like diaper bags, clutches, makeup bags, etc.--and you totally design it yourself, or just purchase one of the itmes they have already made! I love it. The pictures are just a few of the ones they have already made. Here's how the 1154 Lill Custom Handbag concept works.

1) Pick your style of bag that you want from 25 current shapes and silhouettes in the line. Your price is based on the styel of bag, not the fabrics or options you choose. Prices range from $25 and $150.

2) Time to get creative! Pick your fabrics--mix and match--you can choose the exterior, interior and even pockets and straps.

3) After placing your order you have to wait 3-4 weeks to have their Chicago based team hand craft your Lill.

The best thing is, is that chances are NOONE will have the exact same bag as you. That's why I still use my Lill for Little N.

They have three boutiques located in: Chicago, Boston and Kansas City.

Happy Designing!

S#2

4 AM Witching Hour

Little N insists on waking up at 4:00 am every damn night. For a while there he was from 11:00 pm until 6:00 or so. But now, he likes to wake at 4:00 am. It's driving me crazy and I can't take it anymore. So, I've been letting him cry it now for about a week now. I know that this may sound mean, but I don't want the 4:00 am waking to be a habit. Here's how my nights usually go.
--I went to sleep at 9:30
--Big H wakes Little N up at 11:00 to feed him
--I'm awakened at 4:00 by you-know-who
--he wimpers until 4:25
--at last, I can now go back to sleep. (think again)
--Big H is snoring and/or breathing loud. I can't take it!
--I lie (or is it "lay", who cares.) for another 35 mintues because I hear Big H's watch beep at 5:00am.
--I drift in and out of sleep b/c Big H's unbelievable snoring is waking me
--I wake up at 6:30 to Little N.
--I feed him
--I put him back to bed
--I go back to bed
--Littl J calls out for me.
--I go into Little J's room and cover him up.
--go back into my room and wake Big H up so he can make his flight to Houston--business trip.

so, basically, if I could just get over the 4:00 hump, I'd be in business. The above scenario has been going on for about 2 weeks. Will I ever sleep past 4:00 again???? I feel a little manic-depressive today.....