Confessions of a Crafty Mom

Moving...

2010-05-26T18:13:00.000-07:00

I'm moving... to a new blog. It's been nearly a year since I've posted on this blog, and my life has taken a huge turn in the last year, and it's not yet done. In the mean time, I'm starting a new blog here. Please join me as I celebrate 31 years of living, attempt to thin down to a 31" waist, and journey through life!

Easter well-wishes!

2009-04-12T11:55:00.001-07:00

Hey there,

I'm typing this on my new mini laptop-- I think my fingers are a little too big for it. LOL

Happy Easter all!

We're visiting my in-laws in Indiana this weekend. I'm either crashing from the sugar buzz, or there's Tryptophan in chicken. Hmm. When's dessert?

Anywho, hope you had a blessed Easter!

Whoa...

2009-03-26T19:36:00.000-07:00

Long time no blog, eh?

Well, the low-down would be we've been without computer since, well... November. So, what, 4 months? I've had limited use at work, but hey, I'm not going to use my work computer to update my blog... and the library just wasn't workin. I could barely find a book, let alone sit down on a computer with 3 of the 4 crazy kids trying to dive off of library shelves! Ok- maybe they're not quite that bad, but they're close, really. I mean, remember back in November our youngest had broken her arm diving off the bed. Which healed amazingly fast- before Christmas even.
So, here are some pics that show what I've been up to. Not a thing crafty, pretty much since Christmas. I admit- I've been quite lazy in that sense. But, for Christmas I made several sock monkeys, a quilt, a baby doll, and a PC Twilight figure (for my baby sis). I've made one other quilt since, and have another I'm supposed to be working on...
Oh, and we've added to parakeets to the family. This one, on Caylin's shoulder is Tweety. She's sweet, but shy. Tweety is Caylin's bird. The other bird, named Vader (can you tell it's Tommy's?), is a little more open to people, but is very protective of Tweety, and will call for her if they're separated.
Oh yeah, my camera has bit the bullet too. It won't even turn on. It has been sent to the deep dark abyss of Mike's work "shop".

Our first...

2008-11-06T06:32:00.000-08:00

You would think a family with 4 children has been through pretty much everything... but Tuesday night we had a new first- our first kid with a broken limb. Of course, I knew someday we'd have to deal with this, I just didn't expect it to happen to the youngest.

I'll be trying to post updates on her regularly- we've been getting plenty of calls since "the news" broke. She is doing well. Right now, she has that splint on her arm that you see in the picture. This afternoon, she'll get a cast. I'm curious to see which color she picks-I don't know that she has an actual favorite color yet.

I suppose I should tell you how it happened (for those that don't know already!)- Tuesday evening she and big brother Tommy snuck into mom & dad's room and decided they would start jumping on the bed. Mike heard them jumping from the other room and told them to get down. Tommy launched off the bed (as he does off of everything he can get away with). Maya tried to do the same, and didn't quite make the landing.

She did very well in the hospital and cried only a little. In fact, there were quite a few times we got her giggling pretty good. Mommy was even able to sneak a hotdog into the room for her to munch on while we were waiting. She did pretty much cling to daddy the entire time we were there though.

Since we've been home, she's been a trouper. She's still trying to climb on things. We did get her to settle down and watch a video for a little bit yesterday. She's found a love of the Muppets and Kermit. And let me tell you, watching her eat soup yesterday was a hoot.

Time to brag a little...

2008-10-13T16:22:00.000-07:00

I just had to share, I'm in a treasury on Etsy for the very first time!

A special thanks to Uniquely Nancy for featuring me! How awesome! To see my items and the others that were featured up close, click HERE! By the way- the green star cane is mine. :-)

I'm going to run now... If I'm going to get a walk in tonight before it rains, I've got to go NOW!

Busy busy busy...

2008-10-08T16:35:00.000-07:00

Yet again, it's been a bit crazy in Crafty Mom household. I know I shouldn't be surprised by this, yet I am. We've already completed one school fundraiser. Caylin has her first major project due on Friday that I'm getting way too involved in.

Jake has been busy with his freshman soccer team and we've hardly seen him at all the last month. Tommy is absolutely loving every minute of school. And Miss Maya is teething, but at least she's finally learned what yes mean, and that she can say it. But she's also mastered the phrases "I want" and "I don't want"- and how to scream when it's not her way. I think Mike is just trying to reduce the number of middle-of-the-night calls he gets from work.

As far as me... I've been fighting a cold for the last few weeks, but that hasn't made me any less busy.

I completed and sent off another letter tile for the PCAGOE Alphabet Charity project. We've finally got one complete set, and there's only one tile left for the other set!

Isn't it cool? It's going to be donated to a children's hospital or advocate. The Y in the lower left corner is mine- I'm so proud!

I also completed this little guy for the PCAGOE monthly challenge. The theme was Day of the Dead. While he didn't win, I was still very happy with him. He was something new that I tried, and it's always important to try new things. And of course, he's for sale on my Etsy!

Speaking of my Etsy, I've listed one of my Mayan pendants- take a look!

Lastly- we had our first frost over the weekend! I harvested my basil and oregano. The basil has already been quick-dried in the oven, and the basil is hang-drying. It's kinda neat seeing it there in the kitchen... I think I'm going to have to do more herbs next year!

Long Time?

2008-09-29T20:49:00.000-07:00

Gosh its been a while! We were thrown back into the dark ages last week- everything digital of ours was out... phone, internet and digital cable. Thankfully, we still had our cell phones and regular cable... but no DVR!!!! (insert scary horror-movie scream here)

So, during that time we went on a nice little drive to a local archaeological site, called Aztalan. There are 2 re-built pyramids-- yes, you heard that right, pyramids in Wisconsin. Ok, so they're really big mounds, but they are pyramid shaped mounds.

We had a blast hiking around, seeing all the nature. But a week later, I find myself fighting some horrible cold that started yesterday with aches, chills, and you-don't-want-to-know-the-rest, and has progressed to a headache, scratchy throat, and still you-don't-want-to-know-the-rest.

I think it's time to snuggle under a nice warm blanket.

Deals, Portfolios, and Careers, Oh My!

2008-09-16T19:13:00.000-07:00

As a woman, and I know this is a bit stereotypical, I L-O-V-E shopping, but I particularly love finding things on clearance to re-purpose and use for something else. I found this nifty shower caddy on clearance at Target- simply because it was labeled as "College 2008"- for around $2.50. The same kind of thing is at Walmart for just under $5. While I have no need for lugging around my bath and body products, it's working out great for toting stuff to and from the "studio" (aka basement). It's got the 2 large compartments big enough for baking tiles, and some smaller ones for things like tools, rubber finger cots, and a few lumps of clay. Perfect for when I don't want to be lonely in the cold, damp basement. PS- If you look closely, you can see my latest project- for the PCAGOE Day of the Dead Challenge!

This evening, I was supposed to be meeting with some other women for a networking dinner party of sorts, but unfortunately it was rescheduled. One good thing has come of it- I spent a good portion of yesterday evening formatting and printing a portfolio of my work.

There's so much I don't have anymore, and some of my favorite pieces have found loving homes far far away. This is a great way to showcase those things! Just a small 3-ring binder with page protectors. I had one with the clear plastic cover, so I printed up a nice cover as well.

Lastly, I stumbled upon this fun little test. It takes the colors that you like and dislike and tells you what career path you should take. I was pretty surprised at how accurrate (in my opinion anyway) it was! Give it a shot!

Has it been this long?

2008-09-15T19:04:00.000-07:00

Wow- has it really been 2 weeks since I posted last? I'm a horrible blog mistress- I'm sorry. Here's a pretty yellow rose from my garden to make up for it.

I was in a foul mood almost all of last week, and thought it'd be best if I didn't subject all of you to that- it was bad enough my hubby had to deal with it!

So, lets catch up! Since I've been away, Tommy and Caylin have both started school- Tommy is in 4K and Caylin is in 2nd grade this year.

Missy Maya is the only one not in school, but I don't think she minds. She's keeping us all busy with her climbing. What a little monkey! See the skirt she's got on? I whipped that one up all on my own. It's nothing special- just a couple of quarters of fabric, cut in half, and sewn together, with an elastic waistband. Luckily, she's still short enough that I could get away with that!

Speaking of climbing, Caylin has discovered her own climbing talent! Do you see her way up there? She loves climbing to the top of our apple tree and I think she enjoys scaring the be-jeeezes out of me too. Her theory is that the best apples are at the top of the tree. Next year, we may just have to spray so the bugs don't get to them before I do... my husband can already taste the Apple Dapple Cake I'll be baking next year. I may just have to surprise him with one.... one of these days.

Your Mission...

2008-09-01T06:54:00.000-07:00

...should you choose to accept it:

Go vote for your favorite textured entry at PCAGOE!!
This month's challenge was "texture". All of the entries are so wonderful, I'm not sure which one will win! Don't forget, by voting you're automatically entered to win one of two fabulous prize packages!

I gave my husband a mission this weekend. It was to clean out all of my son's GI Joe accessories. It was all supposed to fit into one box. In his opinion, we just need a bigger box. But, in mission control's eyes, well... he didn't make it out alive.

So far this weekend, I have cleaned out my son's room and the garage. Still on my to-do list is the basement. But the sun is shining so bright and beautiful outside, I'm not sure I can force myself into the basement for too long.

Wishing Stars

2008-08-27T20:35:00.000-07:00

Well, we're still not exactly back to normality, but we're headed in the right direction I think. Last night was the Meet & Greet at Caylin's school, and today Tommy had his bus orientation. And I'm still working on the wishing stars. They're cut out now!

To be honest, I don't have a whole lot to write about today. I would like to show these image transfers I was working on last night.

Also, I drew this a while ago, but colored it today. I plan on making a cane with it, but I'm not sure what color to make the background. I was thinking a faux wood would be really neat, but I'm not completely sure how I would do that (although I have an idea or two). If you have any thoughts, leave a comment below!

I just love these creations. Here's more info on them:
1. Sea Sculpture Brooch Pin with Stripes, 2. Sea Sculpture Brooch Pin, 3. Lynne's Awseome Blossom Earrings, 4. The six images below show items that will be taught at the Sundance Retreat I'm holding in September with Lynne Ann Schwarzenberg. Read more by clicking on the "Sundance Retreat Workshop" icon on the right side of this page., 5. A Checkered Yellow Sunflower Pendant, 6. Yellow, Copper and Brown Sunflower Focal Bead, 7. garden ring, 8. Polymer Clay Pendant Necklace, 9. polymer clay beads, 10. Polymer Clay Candy Hearts - Feb 08 Meeting, 11. Awaken Tree Pendant - Polymer Clay, 12. Broche arcoiris / Polymer clay Rainbow brooch, 13. 'Lavender Water Lilies'

I would like to say I was feeling a bit in a funk today. I meandered over to Oprah.com and found a couple of great articles.

The first is "Are You on the Right Course?" by Martha Beck. She believes that there's a superhero in everyone of us, we just have to peel down the layers to find our spandex-clad super-selves. Pretty good read for someone down in the dumps.

The other is "6 steps to Get Your Creativity Flowing" As told to Jancee Dunn. There are some great insights from Tom Kelly- IDEO's general manager.

Back to normality?

2008-08-24T19:35:00.000-07:00

We're back from "up north" and I'm missing it already. Its so calm and peaceful. The cold crisp air is so refreshing in the morning. And the smell of sweet flowers, grasses and vegetables saturates the air.

Even cruising through the fields on the ATV's was relaxing. Feeling the cool breeze on my face was just what I needed.

Even Caylin got to ride on her own- with the help of a speed regulator. She did great!

Tommy caught a blue gill that was about 6-7 inches long. Not bad for a Lightning McQueen fishing pole manned by a four year old. Unfortunately, I was in town when it happened, and the camera wasn't handy. It was the only fish caught all weekend. I do have my own fish story, but you'd never believe me....

Tomorrow the eldest of our brood goes back to school, with the youngest starting school September 5th. This week is full of meetings and getting ready to go back to school. We've begun labeling school supplies, and packing backpacks. For the 2 grade-schoolers, we've made wishing stars, with goals written on them. We'll be hanging them in their room, and as they accomplish their goals, we'll be putting them on a board for everyone to see. Tommy's goals include learning to write his letters. Caylin wants to read 1 chapter book a week. It's been great for getting them excited about school. I'll put up pictures once they're hung.

It's gonna be a loooong night

2008-08-21T21:01:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it's almost Friday already? This week has zoomed by! I can't believe I haven't even blogged since we've returned from Disney! Yes, we did survive... although I wasn't postive we were going to get out before Fay hit. BTW- the hotel had the cutest comforters on the bed. I was there almost a day before I realized that the characters from Nemo were on it!

So seriously, it's 11:09 pm here in Wisconsin- and I'm only halfway done with what I need to do tonight. My mother's birthday is tomorrow, which always means a late night for me. I suppose if I started her birthday presents sooner, I wouldn't have to stay up quite so late, but that just takes all the fun out of it!

Thus far, I've made guacamole, made a custom envelope, made her present, and wrapped said present. I'd show it to you, but my mom reads my blog from time to time... Hi Mom!

Still left to do for tonight, and going into this morning- downloading 158 pictures from said Disney trip. I've also got to pack up these letter tiles to go to the PCAGOE Alphabet project. We're making 2 mosaics of polymer clay letter tiles that will be donated. I don't believe they've decided on who it'll go to, but if memory serves, there was talk of a children's hospital. But, it doesn't matter- they were a blast to make!

Oh, yeah, and I've got to pack tonight, because we're going out of town again! This time, we're going to my uncle's cottage "up north", eh. That's Wisconsin talk for even further north than we already are. And we get to behave slightly less civilized and enjoy things like walking barefoot through shallow water with our pants rolled up to our knees. Or catching frogs and turtles and fish. Or getting four wheelers stuck in some muddy spot.

PS- It's now 12:51 am. I was going to make some of these muffins posted on Lisa Clarke's blog, but I'm all out of steam. Get ready to laugh- maybe I'll do it in the morning before I go to work. Hahahaha!

WOOOOOOOT!

2008-08-14T05:41:00.000-07:00

It's official, we're on vacation!
I am off work today and tomorrow (and Monday too!). Last night, I had the last hissy fit allowed for the next 5 days, and this morning my good attitude is back. I suppose you're wondering what said hissy fit was about. Does it really matter now? If you must know, it was a combination of work stress, packing stress, and... well.... you REALLY don't want to know the rest.
So... so long-we're going to Disney! See ya on Tuesday!

I've been tagged!

2008-08-10T19:23:00.000-07:00

I started laughing when I found my "you've been tagged" notice in my e-mail- what a fun thing to do, except, I think everyone knows just about everything about me. I'm really gonna have to dig deep to find some interesting things! Thanks Ginny for the tag, I think I'll enjoy this! You can find Ginny's blog at Designs by Ginny Baker.

Here are my things:

1. I have a tattoo on the small of my back, in the symbol above, except the 2 crescents are filled in. I was too chicken to have the circle filled in as well. It is three phases of the moon, which is a pagan symbol of the triple goddess- the maiden, the mother and the crone. It is there to remind me that inside of every woman is a goddess, no matter what age. It is also there to remind myself of my inner goddess, because more often than not I forget she is there. I think there is strength in every woman, sometimes we just need to be reminded of that.

2. I lived in Belize for a month after my first year of college, to study Mayan archaeology. I stayed in a "dorm" made of 2x4's and plywood above the lab in the middle of the jungle. I spent 6 hours a day in a hole that was just barely wider than my shoulders, digging for soil samples for a week. Another 2 weeks I spent excavating the ruins of 2 separate homes, one that shared a site with a small pyramid(that included a burial chamber). Another week I spend excavating an agricultural site. I have many stories of howler monkeys, wild pigs, toucans, and other animals and bugs that would just take up way too much space here!

3. I met my current and my previous husband on the internet. My first marriage lasted just over a year. My current marriage is in its 5th year. We got married in Las Vegas, with our entire family there. After dinner, my husband and I took a limo to another hotel, and saw an "Elvis" show, still dressed in our wedding attire. We also got married on the exact same day as one of my hubby's childhood buddies.

4. My husband was almost sent to Iraq 2 weeks before our wedding. One day he called me from work and started to tell me things I needed to take care of, but wasn't able to tell me why until he got home. I still don't know how he was able to convince whomever to have someone else go instead.

5. I not-so-secretly wish that we had a farm, even though we have a lovely house, in a small town. Every now and then I ask Mike if we can have some kind of farm animal. I've asked him for ducks, chickens, lambs, and cows. I think next I'll have to bother him about a pig. ;-) My daughter really wants a horse too.

6. If I let myself, I can fall asleep on the couch around 8:30, especially if Mike is near. If he's away, I can stay up all night. I'm just more comfortable when he's around, and I have a hard time sleeping without him.

7. When I was in kindergarten, I wanted to be a nurse. When I went to college initially, it was for a degree in nuclear medicine technology (before I switched to archaeology). I went back to school in 2003 to become a nurse, but didn't finish for various reasons-none of which included grades, as I had a 3.8 gpa. If I had the time and resources, I would go back to become an obstetrician. I think it's one of the most amazing jobs in the world!!!

I'm tagging:

Lynda at SCDiva

Pippa at Pipsjewellry

Linda at NKDesigns

Pam at Msplumuniq Say

Laura at Pithy Art Blog

Lilin at Artbylilin

Heather at swoondimples

Artist of the week-Kerijoy

2008-08-07T16:50:00.000-07:00

Kerijoy has an amazing story, and she details in it in her profile so much better than I could paraphrase it. Here is a small sampling:

I began the 'Wall Dancers' in February 2003. After 15 years of being a Senior Designer, I lost my "passion" for my art. Just when I said 'No Mas!' and 'I knew' where my life was going (silly me!)- Our Higher Power decided to display a sense of humor and I've been 'along for the ride' ever since! I was diagnosed with Lyme Disease in February 2002 that kept me literally bed-bound. It's been a 6-year tough battle but my ‘choice’ was not to take the victim role. The first dolls were actually made in bed with me in my jammies! I was told by all of my doctors that "these were impossible to do" and still to this day they still wonder 'how I do it.' ~smiling~ You just have met the 'Rainman-Of-ETSY!'

I think the one that speaks to me the most is her Peace Destiny Serenity doll. 2 things that I want and one that I try to understand. Maybe by finding peace and serenity, I will understand my destiny. Cheesy, yes. But that comes with the territory.

Technical Difficulties

2008-08-05T19:03:00.000-07:00

It must be something in the water. One of my favorite blogs dissapeared a week or two ago, and now I'm having difficulties. My laptop is dying. Yes, I just got it- but it was free for a reason. There is a poor connection bewteen the power cord and the computer, and the only way to fix it is to replace the motherboard. The battery absolutely refuses to hold a charge, and even though I have it on a stationary surface, it'll shut down, usually in the middle of something that took hours to work on. So, I have neglected my lovely blog, but no longer--NO LONGER, I say!!!

And now for something completely different- Something to drool over...

And beg hubby for. Ok, so I've made a VERY strong, VERY obvious hint that it'd make a wonderful Chrsitmas present. So strong and obvious that he received an email from me with a subject line of "Christmas present", the words "HINT HINT HINT" in it, and a link to her website. I'm shameless, I know. And in case you didn't take the time to visit Donna Kato's website, if you pre-order, you'll get an autographed copy. I expect mine under the tree in November, darling.

Just Keep Swimming

2008-07-28T20:47:00.000-07:00

One of my mantra's of late is from Disney's "Nemo"... when Dori is singing "Just keep swimming..." Many times I've been at a point lately, where I need to remind myself to just keep swimming. It's silly, but it makes me smile a little too.

This is one of Swimmy's friends, getting ready to go into the oven. I made him for a swap on Etsy called Swim It Forward. Just post a message saying that you'll make a Swimmy for the next person that posts, they'll convo them, and you send a Swimmy. You can also make one and send it directly to the Etsy HQ-find more details on that here.

So, go make your own Swimmy, and swim him forward!

Featured Artist of the Week

2008-07-26T14:24:00.000-07:00

Check out ArtByLilin's Etsy site this week!!

This was just posted today and isn't it gorgeous? I love her peacock collection- this one is KORBEE. Reminds me of the peacock we saw at the zoo last week with its' feathers so proudly displayed for all the hot peacock chickies to see!

Lilin has done an excellent job mixing colors, and just look at that scroll at the top of the pendant! Lilin- you've outdone yourself girl! Nice touch on the peacock feather in the background too.

Have a great weekend.

New computer

2008-07-21T18:59:00.000-07:00

What a weekend! Poor Tommy's been sneezing so hard I thought he was going to blow his brains out of his nose! He's got an upper respiratory infection, so I stayed home with him today.

I've got a new-to-me laptop, and am currently typing this from my living room! No more late nights alone in the kitchen! And it only took me 2 hours to figure out how to get the wireless connection set up. I'm still got to upload my photo software and a few other things though.

Friday we visited the zoo for their Kid's Night. We decided to be different, and go through it out of our usual order. And of course, since we're in Wisconsin, we had to visit the cows. LOL

These are Tommy's giraffes. Hehehe. He's named them Bubbles, Bubbles (Jr.), and Giraffey. What a goof. He's also named just about every other animal we came across.

Featured artist

2008-07-16T17:32:00.000-07:00

Now that I'm blogging daily, I'm going to begin featuring at least one artist weekly. This week's artist is Etsy's BiMiki.

I love this adorable asian style necklace! BiMiki says she's a technique junkie, and I completely fall into that category. Added bonus, in her profile she says "A minimum of 25% of the cost of each item is donated to Christian recovery programs like Celebrate Recovery and counseling programs."

Her Etsy already looks great, and I'm looking forward to seeing more of her wonderful work!

Mamma Mia!

2008-07-15T20:41:00.000-07:00

My sides hurt from laughing so much! My mom, a couple of good friends and I went to a sneak preview of Mamma Mia! tonight, and it was absolutely wonderful. And it really was a great movie to see with my mom!

Now that I'm home, I'm about ready to strangle my computer! My email is acting up- not letting me attach or download files, and my flickr isn't allowing me to grab links to my own pictures. If only I could get a new computer... maybe I'd get a laptop. If my mom were reading this now she'd remind me how I hate laptops- but that was before I started blogging regularly and had to leave nice comfy couches for a hard uncomfortable kitchen chair.

Anyone out there know how to fix my computer problems? Send me a comment below!

Junk day

2008-07-14T20:57:00.000-07:00

I'd like to start things off today with a moment of silence... you see, Goldie the zombie fish finally went to the big fish bowl in the sky last night. Caylin flushed her down the toilet without a single tear. She was so strong. Afterwards, I sent her up to ask her daddy if she could finally get that baby chick, now that we had one less pet. I'm so evil. Tee-hee!

Today was sort through junk day. By 5pm, I realized that I was carrying WAY too many things in my tote, so we had to slim down. I had 5 different notebooks, 3 magazines, a make-up bag (not that I ever put any on regularly), migraine meds, a collapsable file folder, thank you cards that I never wrote out, an empty change purse, a garage door opener, various loose papers, and a cinnamon candy cleverly disguised as a peppermint. YUCK!

After consolidating, I had every intention of taking updated, better quality pictures for some of my etsy items. Pictures that I was supposed to take over the weekend. As I was going through things, I kept finding all these unfinished projects... like earrings that I just had to throw together to make a complete set, or the pendant and toggle for a necklace that just needed to be thrown on rubber cording. Not to mention the sheet of clip art I had printed nearly 6 months ago to do image transfers with! So, 2 1/2 hours later, I've got 5 complete necklaces, 3 sets of earrings, and numerous pictures just waiting to have the paper dissolved off of them. Wee!

Now I just have to figure out- Should I keep them, or post on Etsy? What do you think?

Meetings and messes

2008-07-13T19:46:00.000-07:00

Here I am blogging, just like I said I would... I even got my tail up off the couch from under the nice warm blanket to stick to my blogging commitment. I didn't think it'd be good to slack off on my first day.

Today was the meeting for the Metro Milwaukee Polymer Clay Guild. It has been far too long since I've met with these wonderful ladies! It's so nice to get together with people that understand clay obsessions... not that I'm obsessed or anything. I've only been in my studio all weekend!

At the meeting today, Beth taught some great cane making demos! She had some great leaves and flowers. I love how my leaf turned out, but I think my flower could've used a darker outlining color on it for contrast. It's spawned a lot of ideas that seem really good in my head right now- hopefully I can bring them to life in clay!

Looks like I'll be demo-ing at the September meeting, doing image transfers! I've only done one so far, but I've been wanting to revisit and master that technique.

Speaking of technique, I learned a great one that makes a big huge fun mess from the Winter 06/07 issue of Polymer Cafe. It's Laurie Prophater's Ancient Metal Technique and it was tons of fun to do. If you get tired of being exact with canes, this is a great thing to try and just let it take you where ever it goes.

I made my own stamps, based off of Mayan hieroglyphs. Its just some scrap clay, cut into squares, then I used very thin extruded scrap snakes to make my stamp designs. (I've got a whole bunch more in mind...)

I followed Laurie's technique and the above is what I ended up with. These are drying after applying a coat of minwax to them. Normally I don't varnish, but I didn't want the finish to rub or scratch off. I love them, and can't wait until I have one strung to show off!

Here's another messy technique I worked on this weekend- stamp into some white or off-white clay, then cover with a mixture of liquid clay and alcohol ink. I don't remember where I read about this technique, it was months ago, but I love it. I think it looks like ceramic glaze. I have decided I need to get some additional inks though- I only have 3! I'm not sure how to finish these off yet. Any thoughts? Post your comment below!

Makeover

2008-07-12T06:23:00.001-07:00

WARNING: This is a LONG post, with few pictures.

I've decided it's time for a makeover. Not like the one the other night. Time for an Etsy shop makeover!

It all started when I was looking for ideas for a craft show I'll be doing in November. My VERY first craft show. One thing lead to another, and I landed on this article on Etsy. I've heard of people quitting their day job, for Etsy, but it just struck home. And, while I hope no one from work is reading this, the idea of being home with my kids, and working in my studio is heaven. Even if it means I work 12 hours a day, at least I'll be home with them and won't have to depend on another person to raise them. And I mean no disrespect to my workplace or my boss(es). My direct boss is absolutely wonderful, and her boss is awesome too. It's all about me and the kids.

I've known for about 6 months, I haven't been spending the kind of time taking care of my shop that I should be. The banner was made by myself, and you can tell. Some of the pictures are ok, but some have a distracting background, some are blurry still, and some have poor lighting levels. The last time I listed and item was in March for heavens sakes! I've got listings that are expired too.

Here's my list of getting things back on track to quitting my day job:
1. Retaking pictures, relisting expired listings, and I'll have a 30% off sale once those 2 things are done!
2. I'm getting a business redesign from Share the Love Designs. She's got a good custom package for $30!
3. I'm having some printing done! I'm going to get some things printed from Promo's in a Snap, including new business cards, stickers for packaging, and bag toppers to make my packaging look more professional.
4. Speaking of packaging, I'm redesinging it. While I always put the items in a bag and box, it'll now be tied in someway- with either ribbon or raffia, and have one of my new stickers on it. Also, while for now I'll still be using up old jewelry boxes from my mom's old business, I'll be getting some just for mine from Nile Corp.
5. I'm going to make a batch of sample work to send to The Sampler.
6. I'm making the committment to attend our monthly guild meeting regularly, starting tomorrow.
7. I'm also making a commitment to post on my blog 5 days a week. Today is the exception, but you'll see new posts M-F, bright and early!
8. I'm going to post 1 new picture on my Flickr at least 5 days a week (same time I update my blog).
9. I'm going to send out 1 new bullitin per week to 2 people in my myspace and/or facebook accounts.
10. I'm going to post a comment on another person's blog at least 5 days a week. Even if it's just to say "great post".
11. By August, I want to be posting 1 new item in my shop every day.

As you can see, I've got a lot to do! I didn't even post a new picture for you! Here's one that'll make your mouth water:
Breakfast was delicious!

Summer weekend days

2008-07-06T07:26:00.000-07:00

We spent the day doing fun summer-y stuff yesterday, like going to the zoo.

The flamingos were right up to the fence, as was this little bird just to the left of Caylin...

We enjoyed some ice cream on our way home.

I think Maya liked Mike's chocolate dipped cone, better than her rainbow sherbet though.

I love summer days. It makes doing indoor things like blogging very boring.

Happy belated 4th

2008-07-05T08:22:00.000-07:00

How was your 4th of July? Mine was filled with all the things it should be...

The kids rode their bikes in the town bike parade. Alas, the picture is refusing to download from my camera to email to computer. For some reason, it's getting stuck in the scanning viruses stage.

We found a tiny little frog on our walk home. Last I heard, the kids named it "Hoppy", but it might be changing to "Kermit".

I enjoyed a tomato, mozzarella and basil salad while browsing through my new book "In Stiches" by Amy Butler outside on the deck.

So, my dinner did not fit in with the un-processed foods challenge. My husband ran up to the store to get more meat after we found out friends were joining us, and came home with Hint of Lime Tortilla chips, and Honey Weiss. I'm a sucker, what can I say...

We set up a tent on the hill behind our house and watched the fireworks from there. Then we came back to the yard, and watched the neighbor's fireworks. Hope you're 4th was as enjoyable!

Goodbye blueberry pancakes

2008-07-01T19:47:00.000-07:00

I am saying goodbye to blueberry pancakes for the next week.

And hello to fruit!

As part of the "Biggest Loser's" Group at The Daily Plate, we participate in weekly challenges. Our prize is pride, confidence, being one step closer to a healthy lifestyle, and hopefully weight loss.

This week's challenge is to go without processed foods. It's not just about calorie counting anymore!! Sodium is a big problem for me- it's one of many things that will set of my migraines, and processed food is LOADED with sodium. Play along if you like, and let me know how you do next week!

So, I can have fresh fruit, fresh veggies, brown & wild rice, plain oatmeal, eggs, & fresh meat (NOT lunch/canned meats).
Things I need to be careful of:
Anything "bleached" or "white" ie: bread, sugar, pasta.
Cheese
Sauces
Ice Cream
Soda- I'm a slave to Diet Coke!

That's just a condensed list of my biggest problems... not to mention I can't do any prepared frozen meals (a la Lean Cuisine)!

Part two of our challenge this week is to find a new activity to add to my exercise routine. I'm thinking this is going to be difficult as I already switch between several different activities, and I don't have a gym membership. If anyone wants to leave a comment with idea's, that would be great! Here's what I do fairly regularly:
Walking
Running
Bicycling
Free Weights
Yoga
Pilates
Gardening (YES, that's an activity! You should see how I garden!)
Calisthenics (you know, sit-ups, push-ups, leg lifts... that kind of stuff)

So, what should I add??

I'll leave you with a fun quote for today from Ms. Ellen DeGeneres:
"I really don't think I need buns of steel. I'd be happy with buns of cinnamon."

Beauty Night

2008-06-30T19:11:00.000-07:00

Well... sort of. More like "keep from being ugly" night!

After a quick run to Tar-get, and a few beauty supplies later, I'm in the middle of a hair color refreshening, and upper-lip waxing. The pain we women go through! I can't believe I'm posting this for the world to see! Am I really that lacking on blogging material?

Answer to questions inquiring minds want to know:

1. I am naturally blond, I just like my hair a little lighter than it is naturally. If I don't color, it looks like I don't wash it. Ew.

2. I'm Italian- lip hair is a fact of life. It is a fact that I'm going to do everything I can to eliminate it.

3. It's much more painful to pluck individual lip hairs than to yank them all out at once!

Also whilst at my discount department store of choice, I picked up these cute thank you cards to send out to the lovely people that donated at our fundraiser! I just have to fill them out and get them in the mail!

And to think, I could've been at Summerfest tonigt watching Taylor Swift and Rascal Flatts!

What a week!

2008-06-27T17:15:00.000-07:00

Wow, what a week! We've just been trying to get back to normal here in Casa du Valley. The fundraiser was a great success, with 8 guests, we raised just over $400! Thanks to everyone that came! It rained right at 2 o'clock, forcing us inside, but with only 8 additional people, it wasn't a big deal.

I am SO glad to be done with the potato salad though. There's only so much of that I can eat!

Tuesday our poor car died, and we've been carpooling since. We were supposed to have it back today, but it will now be tomorrow. I'd say more, but mom always said "If you can't say anything nice..."

These are the new pieces of flair I added to my inspiration boards downstairs in the "studio". I wished I'd realized at 11:30 that night, just how poor the lighting really was!

Here are the things I bought from the Bead and Button Show! I have some great necklaces in mind for myself with those ceramic beads. And I just couldn't resist that adorable flamingo bead from Two Can Clay!! And since Mike decided to take apart a typewriter so I can use the letter thingys for stamps, I decided to finish a project of my own.Keep in mind, I started this a year ago, then misplaced the green seed beads! So, it's not really finished, but now I can start the necklace part!I got good things in the mail this week. Like my issues of Polymercafe I received from Polka Dot Creations! Thanks Lisa!

I've got to go balance a checkbook now... my honey seems to think I'm not doing anything!

PS-I'm really starting to notice how I need to up my photography skills!!

Gonna need a bigger... bowl.

2008-06-21T18:31:00.001-07:00

After eating my oh-so-healthy breakfast of pancakes made by yours truly, and eggs made by Caylin; I began cooking. Today's title popped into my head numerous times today.

First from the potatoes that I was boiling for potato salad- 2 pots full.

But then, for the quadruple batch of chocolate chip cookies I was baking. It took 9 cups of flour, 8 eggs, 8 sticks of butter, and 3 cups each of sugar and brown sugar. I never thought I'd need a bowl bigger than this one! Luckily it barely fit, and I think the only thing it splattered on was Mike's lunch! He didn't mind too much though.

We took a break in the afternoon for my cousins' graduation party. I'm starting to feel old now- I remember when they were born, and I used to babysit them!

Even little Maya enjoyed swimming today. If she wasn't in the pool, or being held she was running for the pool. She really enjoyed herself!

With the 2 1/2 hour break, cookies were finally finished tonight at about 8:30pm. I think we've only lost 3 or 4 to the kids and Mike so far- I've got to divee them up, so they can dig in. Don't they look delicious? They're yummy and melt in your mouth soft. Visit us tomorrow, and you can have your very own! ;-)

Panick attacks and goals

2008-06-20T20:47:00.000-07:00

I am a spaz. Ask my husband, and he'll confirm it. Sometimes I don't know how he puts up with me, but I'm sure he thinks the same thing about me putting up with him. OK, maybe not.

Although I hate to admit it, doubt-filled thoughts are beginning to wiggle their way into my head. Are we gonna have enough people? Are we gonna have too many? What about food-too much or too little? Is it going to rain, and if so do we have enough space? If it doesn't rain and we're outside, are the citronella candles and torches going to be effective enough to rid us from the hordes of mosquitoes? (ps. I've killed 2 mosquitoes here in my kitchen while typing this!)

And then the unthinkable happened:

My keyboard died this morning, and I thought the world was going to end. I couldn't check the rsvp's on the evite site! Alright, not quite world-ending, but I was spazzing nonetheless. Thank you hubby for checking in the middle of the day for me. And thank you to my friend for the keyboard loan! The white one is our old one, and the black one is the one on loan. I am happy now, although questions are still running through my head faster than I can catch them and answer them.

We just did the shopping for Sunday, and I think this is the fullest our little pantry has ever been, even when we had scores of people over for Christmas. Tomorrow, I'll be baking and making potato salad, so it won't be quite as full-but the refrigerator will be!

I've decided that my goal for the fundraiser is to make more money than we spent. Pretty small goal, but I'm comfortable with it. If we don't make more than what we spent, then I feel like we could have just sent them the money that we spent on food and such. If we can make more than that, then it was worth everything.

Onto my secondary goal. This is what I wanted to write about yesterday, but the mood was a little too heavy for it, and this is something completely personal. I've been losing weight over the last 6 months or so- 33 pounds so far to be exact. I want to lose a total of 61. On the website I've been using to keep track of my calories consumed and burned, I'm a member of a group that weighs-in weekly and we participate in different weekly challenges.

The challenge for this week is to burn a certain number of calories through exercise-and to not include your daily activities or household type chores in your calories burned total. Each individual sets his or her own goal, and my goal is 2400 calories for the week, although really its only 6 days, so its 400 calories a day.

Well, that started Wednesday, and here we are on Friday. I'm sorry to say, I haven't worked in a single bit of extra exercise all week so far, and I still don't know that I'm gonna have time to. Maybe I can count swimming when I'm at the graduation party tomorrow, but the remainder of my time is going to be spent getting things ready for Sunday. I don't think burning 2400 calories all on Monday is going to work for me- although I do know at least one woman that could do it!

I think at this rate, I'm going to have to give up on this challenge, at least until life returns to semi-normalcy. It bums me out, but until its done, the fundraiser is my priority. The best I can do is give my body healthy foods, and know that even though I'm not completing the challenge, I'm still burning tons of calories I normally wouldn't, because I'm running around like a chicken with its head cut off, thinking the world is going to end.

PSS. My apologies for the loooong post, and the uninteresting pictures. It's way past my pumpkin time, and I'm using toothpicks to keep my eyes open.

Pictures

2008-06-19T18:38:00.000-07:00

We got some pictures of the house that was destroyed. I've posted all of them in my photobucket album, but here are a few of the striking ones:
There used to be a porch in the front, all the way under the awning, and around that bay window. There was also a wheelchair ramp. The posts from the awning stayed in place, they were dug into the ground, but the porch and ramp are gone. The house is moved off the foundation.

My jaw dropped when I looked at this closely. The floor has fallen, and you can see the grass peeking out. Also, that color is NOT the carpet. It's sand and mud.
In the dining room, you can see where the floor is buckling. It's covered in sand and mud as well. The water line is just an inch below the open window.

Just a warning, sappy reading ahead:

I can't imagine having my home covered in sand and mud. Losing precious photographs, records, and memoribilia. Having the floor fall out from beneath me. I am SO grateful that everyone dear to me is safe. I'm thankful that my house has stayed dry and intact, despite the county I live in being a declared disaster area. I am humbled to have an opportunity to help out, and I appreciate the help that is being given.

I think if I've learned anything about disasters in recent times, its that we need to bond together and help one another. I heard some streets were so filled with cars of people that have come to help in this town, they couldn't drive down it. It's times like these where the true character of people come through.

I was going to write about some personal goals, but I'll save that for another time.

PS- We've gotten our first official donation, and I've got an order for an entire batch of my chocolate chip cookies? Anyone else, before I go to the store Saturday morn?

Day 2 of a sick kid, lanterns

2008-06-18T07:31:00.000-07:00

Well, after Tommy seemed to be improving all day yesterday, he threw up at the babysitter's just as Mike was dropping him off. So, I'm at home again. It's funny though, because he's acting normal. But, you know, the daycare doesn't care for that throwing-up thing.

On a different note, I finished the laterns today:

Here's how I did it (thanks to thatstheSPIRIT)

Gather a few cans. I've used a tin can from some fruit, and a paint-type can.Get them naked and clean. A wire brush works really well for getting off any adhesive junk. (thanks honey!) Fill them with water.
Put them in the freezer.Now, once the cans are frozen (I left them in overnight), you can mark out your pattern, although, I ended up not using the pattern I marked out. I marked it directly on the frost, not on the can. Then, get out your nice big nail and hammer, and start hammering the nail on each dot. If your can doesn't already have a handle, make sure you poke 2 holes at the top of the can, one across from the other!Now, empty out the ice, and put your handle on. I used 2 pieces of twisted wire, and twisted the ends into a spiral.

Put your candle in (carefully!) and you're done!

I've put additional photos in flickr, if you care to take a look!

Sick brat...er... I mean kid.

2008-06-17T07:40:00.001-07:00

I'm at home today with a sick wee one. Specifically, a 4 year old named Tommy. I came home to him snoozing on the couch with a fever of 103. During the middle of the night, he lost the contents of his stomach. Thankfully, I was already up with the baby, so my husband got to clean that one up. He just finished a quarter of his toast, and now is on the couch, snuggling with the woobie.

I'm hoping today I'll be able to get some work done around the house, though I shouldn't expect too much.

We've got some flowers planted to spruce up the deck in the back, but still have more to go. I've also just noticed, I need to sweep the deck for the 3rd time this summer. We have SO many helicopters!

I've also gotten the cushions washed, so people have a clean space to sit.

I'm hoping to get my room cleaned- I have filing piling up. And I want to start making our tin and paint can lanterns for some interesting lighting on the deck.

Once I get the pictures, I'll post a tutorial for your crafting pleasure!

PS- I forgot to mention, we went to the waterpark out of the blue Friday night. What fun!

More Rain

2008-06-12T16:33:00.000-07:00

It's raining again.
Not that I mind horribly, it saves me from having to water the garden.

Yes, that's a medium sized tree-branch in the yard... but that's the only "damage" so far.

Well, I've got to do the invites over again for the BBQ. I'm a blonde, and for some reason they didn't save. So, I've got my book out, with my lists. And here we go again.

Here is the menu for those of you considering attending (of course, subject to change)

BBQ Chicken
Hot Dogs
Potato Salad
Baked Beans
Pasta Salad
Watermelon
Veggie Tray
Dinner Rolls
Strawberry Jello with Bananas

Also available for purchase will be (also, subject to change)

Amanda's Chocolate Chip Cookies
Texas Sheet Cake
Brownies
Popsicles
Ice Cream cups

It's already making my mouth water! If you have any suggestions, or would like to donate food, please let me know! If there's anyone out there reading my blog that hasn't received an invite, leave a comment and I'll be happy to invite you!

Good morning!

2008-06-11T03:21:00.000-07:00

I've been up since 3am. Not necessarily because I wanted to be, but that's when hubby got up for work, and my mind has been racing since.

So, after laying in bed 2 hours, I finally decided to get my tooshie out of bed. As I'm typing this, I'm designing an e-vite for the BBQ fundraiser we're organizing.

You see, my in-laws live in Indiana and are currently underwater. My father-in-law is always the first one to help people. He's does volunteer work for St. Vincent DePaul, picking up furniture, storing it in his garage, and dropping it off to folks that need it. He uses his own vehicle for this! And now he needs help. He's got a 10" hole in his roof, and a foot of water in his basement that is coming back in as fast as they pump it out. All that water killed their HVAC unit.

My grandfather-in-law needs help too. His home is off the foundation, and he lost 2 vehicles. I was told he nearly drowned leaving his home as the porch gave way underneath him.

Here are pictures off of Flickr for some examples of the flooding there.

www.flickr.com

More photos or video tagged with Indiana flood on Flickr

As soon as I have pictures from my in-laws I will get them posted.

First order of business

2008-06-10T19:46:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Confessions of a Crafty Mom!!!

I'm new at this, so I hope you don't mind the clutter. It might take me a while to get sit-iated.

This weekend we were lucky enough to have the Bead and Button show in town, on my birthday I might add. I demo-ed for about a half hour at the National Polymer Clay Guild booth, until I was booted out of my chair by Christi Friesen. I couldn't have been booted out by a cooler person! She sculpted this awesome little seahorse in about 10 seconds. Ok, maybe a little longer, but never-the-less awesome. If there's anyone out there that has any pictures from the show, send me a comment! I'd love to see some and/or post them up here!

So, I know I mentioned my birthday... I just have to brag, I got 4 (YES 4!) vases of drop-dead gorgeous flowers.

Aren't they awesome?! Thanks Mom, Sue & Mark, honey, and kids!

It's 2 hours past my bedtime, and I'll be turning into a pumpkin any minute. More tomorrow kidies!