the geddesburg address

Book Club: Out of Print

2012-02-09T19:48:00.000-08:00

These books come to you today from my own collection. They are old, they are fabulous, and they are out of print. But if you can find them, they are worth the search.

Stand Back said the Elephant, I'm Going to Sneeze! by Patricia Thomas. c.1973
this one is a little easier to find because of it's reprint in 1990. it soberly teaches kids to cope with the aftermath of a natural disaster...
I kid! but it does describe the zany happenings to the poor animals who fall victim to Elephant's super-sized sneezes. warm up your inner thespian, you will have to read this in voices.

(the zebra after his stripes are blown off.)

Dean's Mother Goose Book of Rhymes by Janet & Anne Grahame Johnstone. c.1977
I wanted this book so desperately when I was pregnant with Parker that both Grandmas hunted it down for me on e-bay. I now own two copies. No. you can't have one.
If you do ever find this for purchase, BUY IT. Just now I've been looking at it online and in 6 years the price has jumped from $20 to $150!

It's just your basic treasury of nursery rhymes, but the thing that makes it so special is the illustrations. They are just beautiful. B.E.A.utiful. I spent hours as a kid pouring over the pages. Anything illustrated by Janet and Anne is worth adding to your collection.

I Know a Giraffe: A Tall Tale by David Omar White. c.1965
This gem was picked up for us by my bro Andrew and his wife Julie who spend their time sifting through used book stores. This quirky book leads kids on a guessing game about what that whacky giraffe is turning into next. And once again - love the illustrations.

You can indulge in more vintage books here on Modern Kiddo.

The bug turned four.

2012-02-01T20:20:00.001-08:00

and he has informed me he is now a Caden-Tiger. we'll see.
he didn't get a party this year. but he did get a custom made balloon tiger.

he got to eat dinner dinner in a trolley car - which he loved!

and he got that tiger cake he asked for...

I know what you're thinking...
mine is a bit more orange than the first.

but I don't think he even noticed.

{note the new tiger figure next to the cake. Caden named him Captain Tiger.}

Book Club

2012-01-26T19:47:00.000-08:00

I like living nestled up to the mountains. I like families of deer passing through my yard and spotting rams on the foot hills when we drive to school in the morning. But I don't like not having a library. I especially don't like paying $80 to use the library less than ten minutes from my house. But I paid it. so Caden could go to story time. (apparently the library is getting wise to freeloaders and is now registering for story time.) Now to make the most of my recent purchase, I am going to review some of the books we check out.

I always go with 3 tried and true books from my youth, one for Judey, and then I let Caden peruse the shelves and pick the one that catches his eye. And so far, he has done well!
Tudley Didn't Know by John Himmelman. A most darling book about a turtle unaware of his limitations. I love the message it teaches kids - you can accomplish more than common belief. The illustrations are beautiful and the biology section in the back is a plus!
I Used To Be the Baby by Robin Ballard. I know we all have read make way for baby books, but I felt this one was different. It focuses less on the displacement of the older child, and more on his new important role as big brother. With specific scenarios where he can be involved, each presented an opportunity for discussion that Caden was a willing participant in! Reading this was eery. Like Robin Ballard has been peeking through our windows, pen to paper. But Caden adored it.
well, I'll be back with more goodies for you to check out with your little ones.

Kelsi's Shower

2012-01-25T21:44:00.000-08:00

Liam Bennet Nevin is my new honey.
He asked that I post pics of his baby shower since he is 2 weeks old now.

and since I actually had someone take photos for me this time...I should!

Here is sweet Mama.

We had blank onesies and assorted appliques.

the results were adorable.

Tip: always have the comfiest seat in the house reserved for the lady of honor.
and position it next to the gifts.

we had blonde mustache pops for Kelsi.
a friend let me borrow her candy mold. but you can buy one here.

the after party.

Garbage for Christmas

2011-11-26T10:20:00.001-08:00

wrap odd shaped gifts in empty food boxes. Caden may be disappointed when he opens his box of fruit snacks and doesn't find any.

Madame Geddes' guide to perfect children

2011-10-31T22:26:00.000-07:00

Do you find that your children often behave like monsters? These easy to follow guidelines will have your youngsters on their best behavior in no time!

1. Observe an early bedtime. A child who is up all night is prone to a cranky disposition.

2. Spend quality time with father. Children need a male figure to set a disciplinary tone in the household.

3. Provide proper nutrition. A balanced diet will produce a balanced demeanor.

4. Don't suppress laughter. Playtime is also essential to release a child's extra energy, encouraging obedience in turn.

Yes, at times exercising constant discipline can be draining,

but the reward of seeing your little monster turn into a little angel is well worth the effort.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

McDonalds

2011-10-27T14:46:00.000-07:00

A couple of months ago, I took the boys to our McDonalds to eat and play. After maybe half an hour of the play land, Caden came down with very wet clothes. It always bugs me when people let their kids take food in and I assumed someone spilled a drink. Not long after a girl emerged with a pee spot on her pants. She told her family she'd had an accident. That's when I looked up at the equipment. The slide was DRIPPING. I could not have been more disgusted. I yanked Parker out of there (also wet) and we went straight home for a shower.

Before we left, I told the employees it needed to be cleaned and wondered if it actually happened. Then just today I saw this clip that made think about it:

http://youtu.be/kd66jVtQURw
(sorry, they won't let me embed.)

Needless to say, I am totally grossed out. We don't eat there that often, and our McDonalds is still new and I'm sure doesn't have as many problems as these Phoenix ones do. Still - I will definitely be more cautious.

Ew.

P.S. This clip is little old. No improvements were made to the play equipment, and Erin Carr Jordan has since been banned.

nifty notebook

2011-10-08T19:59:00.000-07:00

Well in case you haven't noticed, school is in full swing! And for his homework journal, Parker was given a plain composition notebook.

no. we don't do that here.

so i dressed it up. It goes really quickly {if you are not trying to photo journal it} and you can do a bunch at once. Did someone say teacher gifts for Christmas? Yes. I think I did!

You will need:
a boring, ugly composition notebook
two sheets of scrapbook paper
{one for the front, one for the back}
Mod Podge
a foam brush
a scraper or squeegee of some kind
and {not pictured} painter's tape

Place the notebook right side up. Place your scrapbook paper - also right side up - on top of the cover and butt the edge up to the spine. Secure with a strip of tape.

Open the front cover of the notebook. Now your paper should be right side down with the front cover on top of it. Trace around the edge of the notebook onto the paper.

Carefully remove the tape and cut out the paper just inside the tracing lines.

Open the notebook and lie it on a work surface, spine up. Move all the pages to rest behind the back cover for now. At this point I like to cover my work surface with newspaper or something.

Using your foam brush, apply a moderate strip of mod podge to the top edge of the front cover. Careful not to apply to liberally or will creep over the edges. Too thin, and you won't have good adhesion.

Now align your scrapbook paper -still right side up - with the top edge of your cover. Do a quick smooth over with your hand.

Working from the top to bottom, one section at a time, apply a strip of mod podge and then smooth the paper down over it until the whole cover is, well . . . covered.

Now get out your squeegee and smooth out any bumps. {i picked mine up at a craft store for a couple of bucks and i use it for everything!} don't press too hard - you could tear the paper. and i like to keep a damp paper towel handy to wipe any excess glue off my squeegee as i go.

Turn your cover over and trim off any excess paper.

Turn the cover back over and apply a thin even layer of mod podge to seal it. i find if there are any small bumps at this point they usually smooth out as your paper dries. use can also layer a label or embellishment once it's dry and do a second coat of mod podge over it.

Allow to dry completely before you do the back cover.

There! much more fitting for a disaster boy. i couldn't find any tornado or lightning bolt paper though, which is weird because natural disasters are synonymous with scrapbooking. o well. he loves it.

le dress

2011-10-05T16:05:00.001-07:00

well it's been over a month now. and to answer how did the dress turn out? {which i've gotten more than once.} i am posting some pics of the little Grecian number.

my new sister-in-law Kelsi. I hope she doesn't hate this picture because i think she looks adorable. and who can blame a girl for posing coyly after her millionth serious picture was snapped? {waiting patiently to see those serious photos!}

Lacey Headbands

2011-09-27T20:14:00.001-07:00

I realize it doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out how to make a headband. But I flatter myself to think that maybe someone out there could use my own tips for the pretty pretty head candy.

First start with an arsenal of lace and ribbons. I feel this is something one should have on hand at all times. Like you would milk or toilet paper. Press them with an iron on medium heat. You may also want some other tools like Fray Check, Horsehair braid, pins and a hot glue gun.

Cut the ribbon. I cut two main pieces: a top piece {the feature} and a bottom piece {the worker}. Cut the top piece 9" long and the bottom piece 18" long. You can adjust these lengths depending on your head size if your worried about fit. I cut the 'feature' ends straight across and the 'worker' ends at an angle.

Now don't be worried if the ribbon you love is wired. After cutting to size, press on on the corners until you feel the poke of the wire end. Grasp the tip of wire and pull back the ribbon to expose it. {tweezers help a lot} When you've got more than an inch exposed, wrap it around your finger and yank!

After cutting your ribbon lengths, {and ridding yourself of that pesky wire} apply fray check to the ends and allow to dry.

Now have some fun layering laces and other edgings to the back of your 'feature' ribbon. Apply a thin ribbon of hot glue and place your lace so it will peek out when the 'feature' is flipped back over. Trim to fit after applying. I also use popsicle stick to press down the lace and spread out the glue while it's still hot so it's not lumpy when it dries. {what you have to eat to get that popsicle stick is totally up to you.}

Fold each of your ribbons in half {both the 'feature' and the 'worker'} and pin the center of each.

Layer the ribbons on top of each other, matching up the center pins. The 'feature' should be on bottom and the 'worker' should be on top. Make sure both ribbons are laying pretty side down. Then fold back one half of the 'worker', apply your hot glue to the back of the 'feature' and place the lifted half back down. Do your popsicle stick trick. Repeat on the other half.

Flip over to right side up. Glue a small strip of your lace over the edge to clean up the look. Trim to fit.

Another option is to wrap a thin ribbon around both the 'feature' and 'worker' and secure with glue in the back.

If you have a pretty lace that's perfect without edging, but is too delicate, horsehair braid will help. It's a flexible, woven, nylon braiding that is semi sheer. It comes in white or black and varying widths. It's woven on the diagonal so it's width can also change when pulled or pushed - think chinese finger trap.

If you are using horsehair braid, you will have to do a little hand sewing. Pin the braid to the back of your lace and stitch it on using matching thread and small stitches. Careful not to pull your thread too tight because it will pucker your lace. I don't recommend machine sewing for the same reason.

The end of horsehair is very pokey. Use a scrap of ribbon to fold over the ends of the 'feature' and glue to the front and back.

Your headbands are done now. And because they tie on to your head they look just as pretty from the back as they do the front. Tie a few onto a card and give as gift. They even look good enough to not wrap.

and then give them to that cute little pixie you know for her 30th birthday.

yup. adorable.

improvaganza

2011-09-17T22:53:00.000-07:00

dan and i have been watching this like EVERY NIGHT. I just want you to know what i'm talking about when i say
"totally partayyyyyyyyyy!

if i had a chain link fence.

2011-08-29T21:29:00.000-07:00

I would do this to it.

you had me at "ahoy"

2011-08-24T16:17:00.000-07:00

hey kids! do you want to be a pirate?

well, first there are some things you should consider before making this big decision...

the eye patch will take some getting used to.

and you will need to wear a head scarf at all times.

you're going to have to wear uncomfortably tight pants.

and stripes must be incorporated into you daily wardrobe.

being pretty is not allowed.
practice your best pirate grimace now.

and of course there's the mandatory tattoo.

"good hair days" will be a thing of the past,

because of that pesky constant head scarf.

and after all that, you will most likely be mocked for your appearance.

it takes a big crew to find a treasure.

which means you'll have to share.

and finding a crew means cavorting with all kinds of people!

dangerous people...

tough people...

people lacking in sobriety...

people much cuter than you...

crazy people...

but who knows? maybe you'll find your pirate soul mate!

then when you and your crew find your treasure,

you'll learn that the captain gets all the best stuff.

you'll spend many a year at sea.

and you'd better get used to skulls and crossbones, cause they're everywhere.

you won't be texting anymore,

but you probably won't have two hands anyway.

yes pirates are loud...

and the job is tiresome.

but i hear they throw the best parties!

i didn't get ALL the pictures i'd hoped for. you can see more on my ma's facebook page.

secret ingredient

2011-07-22T09:03:00.000-07:00

My bro Paul is marrying his high school sweetheart Kelsi in August. And since Dan is not a blogger, I would like to share on his behalf, with all marrying/married fellows, Dan's top secret tactic for marital bliss that he's been employing for the eight years of our marriage.

...Ready?....

ALWAYS APOLOGIZE FIRST.

Now hear me out. It doesn't make you a door mat - it works! and here's why:

1. IT ENDS THE FIGHT.
Who can argue with "I'm sorry"? No one. and suddenly you're on the same side.

2. HE'S LETTING ME "WIN".
Women's engines run on emotions. Once I've killed the motor, and am able to take a deep breath, I find myself apologizing right back. After all, it does take two to fight.

3. IT INTRODUCES PERSPECTIVE.
Now that we've put down our weapons {Yes, I once literally threw a pin cushion at Dan.} we can talk about it like grown ups, and it's never as big a deal as it seemed 5 minutes ago. We end up mutually making resolutions to try better.

4. MR. WRONG IS ALWAYS MR. RIGHT!
Every time he apologizes first, I walk away thinking "That Dan is a keeper. I'm so lucky! NO husband is better than mine!" and your lady will be thinking the same thing.
*side note girls: if you're thinking those things, tell him!*

Give it a try guys. It might work for you too!

JUDE ....

2011-07-15T20:57:00.001-07:00

...is growing up too fast.

...got his first tooth about a week ago.

...hardly ever cries.

...is my first baby to refuse bottles and binkies.

...forgets I'm there sometimes when he's nursing. He'll be eating for a while then look up at me in surprise as if to say "how long have you been here watching me?"

...is extremely ticklish.

...often falls prey to biting from his parents and other relatives.

...wonders if his mom will ever get his birth announcements out. don't worry judey, I'm working on it!

I don't mean to brag but...

2011-06-28T20:22:00.000-07:00

...my kids are beautiful.

a novella

2011-06-10T21:54:00.000-07:00

brought to you by hil and sam's Cinco De Mustache party

this is the story of Lone Vaquero.

fastest draw in the south west.
he devoted his days to finding the evil El Nino...

face of a sweet infante

but heart of a diablo.

the locals lived in fear.
for he pillaged the villages to satisfy his lust for milk and diapers.

he kept dastardly company to aid in his tirades.

including Rubia, owner of the cantina.

who had a secret dance to warn the villains that occupied her establishment,
and help them escape the law through her underground tunnels.

Vaquero knew of this song and dance.
he tracked El Nino to the cantina one day.

but first he stationed the policia at the back escape.

Rubia sensed the danger and shook her maracas with fury!

El Nino fled but Alguacil was hiding in the shadows.
The tyrant was caught at last!

and there was much rejoicing!

real quick

2011-05-16T23:11:00.000-07:00

i haven't been able to post any of judey's newborn pics because my disc was cracked.
now i'm finally getting out his birth announcements.
i'll probably send you one, but if you think i don't have your address,
you can post it as a comment and i won't publish it.
{picture taken by studio lush}

the eggs get hunted

2011-05-11T19:39:00.000-07:00

i thought i was sneaky hiding some eggs in trees.
then i could hide behind and wait with camera poised.

my dad is here again. mouth open and everything.

oh easter pictures. getting spiffy'd up, holding the kids hostage, dan's awkward stance,
the hysterics, the parents' waning smiles. i can't wait til family pics this month!

this one is a little better.

the only time caden is interested in having his picture taken,
is when i'm trying to get one of someone else.
someone younger and smaller.

the zoo gets visited

2011-05-07T10:38:00.001-07:00

the boys had fun testing out the elephant scale.
please guys! i weigh more than both of you combined!

forgive me for being crude, but check out the rock behind the rhinos and tell me that doesn't look like what i think it looks like! coincidence? i don't think so.

one of many unsuccessful attempts to get a group photo.

it worked better when we broke them into smaller increments.

i took a few pictures of animals but apparently got bored because most of these are of kids.
they are more of a challenge to shoot anyway. with a camera.

parker and korbin at their favorite exhibit... the train.

my favorite exhibit.

i think he was hoping we were lunch. he lingered a little too long.

doesn't my mom look too young to have 5 grand kids?

tall, dark and handsome. why do the good ones always drool?

we made a perfect plane. unplanned.
my dad was the ONLY way i was getting out of there with a picture of caden.

aren't my kids so photogenic?

my baby bro. we have the same hairdo.
also unplanned.

they were so sweet to hold hands but i felt a pang of guilt that this took precedence after we accidentally left parker behind.

chloe LOVED the elephants. they had a new calf. no - i didn't get a picture.

parker was more than willing to let me hover around him like a desperate paparazzo.
{that's singular for paparazzi - kimiko taught me that.}

see what i mean? but i don't mind my dad being in the pics. he's caden's fave "grandma."

korbin sustained a wicked shiner when he tripped and smashed into a giant boulder meant to enhance the 'natural habitat' feeling.

textiquette

2011-04-29T21:31:00.000-07:00

Dan texted me : if we hit $X today we can have tomorrow off.

I texted back: you can do it! don't let anyone give up!

what he wanted to text back was: i know - i won't. Love you!

what he actually texted was: i know i won't love you

i texted back: you really ought to use punctuation.

dan gets old

2011-04-28T19:55:00.001-07:00

We had a Vegas party for Dan-o in our basement. {This will explain the the half insulated walls that serve as the back drop for the pictures. And at some point basement dust got on my lens.} Our guests were invited to dress up and we were delighted with the results.

There was poker. And the real pros wore shades.

she decided to trade being an angel for a vegas bunny

party animals.

Somebody crashed the party. No, not my dad, he was invited.

There was some particularly moving karaoke.

yes indeed.

i'm not going to lie. it was difficult deciding on which of the many fab pictures to post of these two. they were just so darn photogenic.

there was some fierce table tennis. and the spectators were REALLY getting into it.
{patrick did the 'old man playing the slots' vegas. the straw hat you see dan wearing is his.}

you have to get a picture of this guy just to prove he was there.

he claims he didn't dress up but i think his bleached, mohawk/mullet says otherwise.

awww. carmen's baby is no longer a baby.

my dress was beaded in gold and rhinestones. it was returned two days later.

if it looks like people were having a good time - it's because they were!

the vegas look is just so glamorous.

old buddies.

dressed as a celeb doing vegas or, "looking like a homeless person."

sorry guys, i wish the only picture i had of you was cuter.

we actually used a cardboard cutout of dan to pose with all the gifts.

that's why he looks the same in every picture.

no pics, but my mom had her share of wicked karaoke moments.
my dad sang none.

wouldn't be a vegas party without the King.

and somehow he managed to blow them all out.

thanks to all that came! the party was a'rockin because you were there!

{i regrettably did not get pics of everyone. i was kinda pretty busy.
if you have some will you email them to me?}

Jude gets blessed

2011-04-26T22:13:00.000-07:00

After a bout of RSV, trying to coordinate family travel schedules, and a handful of conferences, we just decided to bless judey at home. It was hectic and crowded but a lot of fun to have everybody there.

And after a constant parade of friendly faces....

...the little guy was completely worn out!

{p.s. doesn't dan look like obadiah stane?}

WARNING:

2011-04-22T15:52:00.000-07:00

I've been a busy beaver lately and an onslaught of photos testifying to the fact are coming soon.

some boys just know how to talk to the ladies

2011-03-31T10:11:00.001-07:00

{while changing a diaper}

caden: mama, will you fix my cutting food?

me: you're a big boy, you can do it by yourself.

caden: how about blocks?

me: yes. go play with your blocks.

caden: no you do it.

me: no caden. i can't play with you. i'm too busy.

caden: {getting mad} you're not busy - you're old!

clearly we need to teach this kid the value of money

2011-03-23T15:24:00.000-07:00

for st. patty's day at Parker's preschool, the kids were asked what they would do if they found a pot of gold.
the replies were: buy a swimming pool... buy a playground... buy lots of pets... buy a hot tub...

Parker said, "I would turn the pot of gold into lava and a volcano and it would melt the ground."
at least he's not boring.

what has two thumbs and is turning 30?

2011-03-22T15:28:00.000-07:00

this guy.

i'm planning the big bash right now. give me your address if you want to come.

there will be cake.

i'm addicted

2011-03-19T20:58:00.000-07:00

so these days, my rear seems to be firmly planted on the couch with a baby firmly planted on my you know what, watching either the backyardigans or this. i love this show! she takes old homes and restores them immaculately to their former glory. plus she looks like a 5'2" blond kristen stewart with the mouth of a sailor cursing in a minnesota accent. adorable.
speaking of minnesota accents, one of my fave movies is drop dead gorgeous. allison janney is hilarious! go and watch it sometime if you have a dark sense of humor. but don't tell me if you don't think it's funny because i'll only insult your wit.

heres judy

2011-03-11T21:42:00.000-08:00

a little less than 5 weeks ago, i had a baby.
here's a little bit about him.

we named him Jude Leo Geddes.

he looks just like his daddy.

he did not want to come out. he was a week overdue. my labor started at 6am feb 5,
and he wasn't born until 1am feb 6. and he fought against every contraction.

{buster bluth anyone?}

he does not share his mother's affinity for baths.

but he does share his mother's fondness for his brothers.

and they sure are fond of him too.

he is my spoonful of sugar that helps the medicine go down.
and my extremely possessive boyfriend that won't let me do anything with out him.
good thing he's a talented snuggler.

the bug's birthday

2011-02-03T21:48:00.000-08:00

a photo recap:

he was so stoked

and korbin came dressed appropriately

the bates fam. after sam got rid of the weird face he was pulling.

my bro jared. yeah he's cute, yeah he's single.
but wait ladies, he's 12.

sweet chloe

also sweet bence. this kid seems to be always mellow yellow

firefighter leila

isaac still needs to grow into his helmet

tommy. sunshine personified.

meeting the real deal

can i borrow this?

handsome ellis family

handsome foit family

it was supposed to be a burning building. the little firefighters are putting it out. everyone assumed it was the fire station and wondered why the windows were bleeding.

and the sugar coma sets in.

wishin and hopin and thinkin and prayin...

2011-02-01T17:29:00.000-08:00

...plannin and dreamin your labor will start,
that won't get him into your arms.

well my due date came and went. and with the tiny of exception of some labor-like activity last sunday, this kid is staying put! i've done all that i can do! i've tried EVERYTHING. now it's time for my doctor to do all that he can do. that's right folks - i'm getting induced! next monday. but don't cry for me argentina. although i wanted a natural childbirth, it's not the end of my universe to go the tried and true pitocin + epidural route. i just want a healthy baby at the end of the day.

so in the meantime i've been doing all those decorating and sewing projects i didn't think i had time for. and shopping.

i am a big fan of swaddling my babies. and i'm in love with the new cotton - pod models that are on the market. I've shown this one from cozi-bug before. it's a touch pricey at $54.
this one is so darling with the dwell rockets. it's an etsy seller: maternalNest and is a little more affordable at $42.

But i wanted to make my own. It takes less than a yard of fabric each for outer and lining and then i could line with flannel. {most i've seen are lined with minky which is a dreamy fabric but in my opinion not ideal for swaddling since it's polyester.}
I found a great Kwik Sew pattern that i used to make these. {3734} it was very economical at $12. but i rounded the edges. it's cuter. like dumbo's ears when his mama wraps him up. try watching that movie and not bawling.

and if you still want cheaper than that, i found a free swaddler pattern at craft gossip. they are fun to make and surely would be a well received gift should you be attending a shower soon! Speaking of showers, mine is still on for saturday. unless my water breaks. but i'm not holding my breath. if you didn't get an invite - a thousand apologies. YOU ARE INVITED! email me and i will give you the details.

vera bradley

2011-01-19T20:43:00.000-08:00

I was over at the Vera Bradley website and they had some goodies on sale.

I got this agenda....
and this knotty headband....
{i hope it comes before baby so i can wear it to keep my hair back for the big day.}

and this baby book.

I got a few gifts from the sale section too, but i can't show those in case the giftee is looking.

Note:

2011-01-15T20:12:00.000-08:00

just published a love note to my baby. it went under my last post should you care to view it.

children inspire designs

2011-01-13T16:50:00.001-08:00

as i have mentioned before, i belong to an online shopping club called zulily. {and i can sign you up if you want, all i need is your email address...} well, they always have the stinkin cutest stuff and since one of my faves, children inspire designs, has made an encore, i thought i would share.

i apologize for the massive pics. i'm too lazy to make them smaller.
matryoshka dolls are so hot right now.

i got this one for judy jude's room. it is so darling in person. i will probably post pics of the nursery some day when it's actually put together. soon, very soon....
and i thought this set would be fun in a play room. our plans are to someday have one in our finished basement. a pipedream really.

view more here. they are only available thru zulily for a short time. let me refer you if you decide to buy!

Ode to The Bug

2011-01-11T17:40:00.000-08:00

{picture by Kari Hennefer}

when i wake to the top half of your head smiling over my mattress in the morning,
i feel sunshine.

when that little lisp is reading aloud to itself in the next room,
i hear music.

when dinner is eaten without the WWF throwdown,
i taste sweet victory!

when you do exactly what i told you NOT to with that look on your face,
i see red.

but when that just-bathed hair snuggles into me, leaving wet spots on my shirt,
i smell my favorite place.

HUGTH AND KITHETH on your 3rd birthday! Even though you're about to be a big brother, you can be my baby anytime!

silhouette applique tee

2010-12-16T13:59:00.000-08:00

'tis the season to be sewing. i've almost finished making my Christmas projects and here is an easy one you can whip up for a quick gift.

it's fun for kids and adults and it can be as simple {beginners} or elaborate {sewing vets} as you want. you'll need:
-basic sewing supplies
-sewing machine, thread, and jersey machine needle {about size 80/12}
-glue stick
-blank tee shirt {pre-washed and pressed}
-jersey knit scrap* {also pre-washed and pressed}
-simple applique template

*jersey knit is basically t-shirt fabric. it's a little lighter in weight than other knits and comes in many prints and colors. if you find one that is particularly slinky you can beef it up by ironing on a light weight interfacing to the back.

1. cut out your template on the lines.
place it on your jersey scrap and trace with a water/air soluble fabric pen.

2. rough cut around your design leaving a generous border surrounding.

3. turn over and gently dab glue to the back
being careful to stay within the lines of your design.

4. place on your tee and smooth down scrap to adhere glue.
add a few pins to make it secure.

5. change your machine's needle to a jersey one. sew scrap to tee stitching directly on the lines.
it helps to start at the bottom of the tee with neck closest to you and turn the sleeves inside out.
be very careful not to tug or stretch while you sew - you don't want puckers.

6. i used a triple straight stitch which goes back over itself two more times.
this makes the stitching more visible, but you can also use a slightly heavier thread.
press again using stream.

7. trim fabric close to stitching leaving about a 1/8" border.
be oh-so-careful not to cut your shirt. you'll be so mad if you do.

8. voila! you are done. there is no need to finish the edges since knits don't fray.
depending on how wide of a border you left, the edges of the applique will just roll in the wash.
if the glue made your shirt a little stiff, that will come out in the wash too.

i've made a few for my boys featuring their latest obsessions. i can't wait for these to become their fave tees. i'll have to post pics after they open these beauties Christmas morning.

maternity pics

2010-12-10T20:59:00.001-08:00

let me tell you about my friend kari. she is the kind of person you want to hate, but she is so gosh darn likable that you just can't seem to do it. she is a yoga instructor, has all her babies naturally, is sweet and sincere, has the most gorgeous blond hair you've ever coveted and....
takes beautiful pictures.

sorry if this is too many for you to care about. it was really difficult to narrow it down to these. but now if you're curious, you can catch a glimpse of my growing oven. {p.s. it has grown considerably since this photo shoot. no fat jokes please!}

if you want her to take your pics, you better hurry! she could be moving out of state in the near future.

gobble these cupcakes

2010-11-22T15:32:00.000-08:00

this
{1. cake mix. obviously. 2. jumbo cupcake liners + jumbo muffin tins. 3. not pictured - homemade frosting.}

plus this

{1. chips ahoy mini cookies in the pouch, and... 2. chips ahoy mini cookies in take-along cup. they're smaller. 3. m&ms or reeses pieces separated into colors. 4. icing carrots. i bought these from my local candy factory but candy corn works also.}

equals this:

{don't overfill your cupcake liners.
these make up best when the cupcakes are not mounded at the top.}

which results in this:

{we will be taking these on thanksgiving day for the less mature pallets who don't appreciate pie.
i highly recommend cutting them in half before eating.
the jumbos can be overwhelming for little mouths.}

too true

2010-11-18T09:57:00.000-08:00

Hilary sent this to me and i about died laughing.

muchas gracias

2010-11-12T19:19:00.000-08:00

saw this idea here and loved it. we did it for family night. it was cute to see what the boys were 'glad they had' as we put it to them. i drew my own leaf template but this is a good one too.

what are you thankful for?

that's just mean

2010-11-10T13:23:00.000-08:00

I belong to a club called zulily. it's kinda like a costco that sells high-end goodies just for kiddos and moms at a discounted price. you never know who will be in the shop that week and they only stay for a few days.
well i opened my latest email from them to find a brand called 'Hazel'. {sorry link is for the adult line. i couldn't find the kids stuff.} that's the name i desperately want for my imaginary daughter. {oh please please don't take my name if you are pregnant with pink right now! unless i have no idea who you are.}

and just look at that picture!! that is exactly how my hazel will look! ok, her clothes anyway. do i dare try for a daughter after this one? or call it quits like i'd planned?

{if you want to join zulily, can i refer you? just send me your email address in my comments. i won't publish it unless you want me to. and i get store credit for every person i refer who buys.}

ooh. pick me!

2010-11-07T11:13:00.001-08:00

I wanted a cruiser for Christmas and this one is being GIVEN AWAY! it's so pretty and i could stick a baby or something in the cargo pit. BRILLIANT. if you want to enter the contest too, click the pic.

sooo pretty. powder blue. with a place for a basket...
sigh.

Scary Christmas.

2010-11-05T21:20:00.001-07:00

Every year it sneaks up on us and puts us in a half nelson of last minute stress.
join me in my crusade to enjoy each and every minute of the season this year {practically stress free} by planning ahead!

Here's what's worked in years' past and what will {i hope} work this year:

MAKE A LIST - CHECK IT TWICE. you wouldn't go to the grocery store without one, why not gift shopping too? Rifle through catalogs and decide what to get before you enter the store and suffer amnesia. Also, people are talking about what they want now. keep a notepad and sneakily write it down when they casually mention all their socks have holes.
BUY PRESENTS YESTERDAY. i can never afford to buy all at once, but if i notice that season three of 30 rock is on sale, i grab it. and save it! and do take advantage of stores with lay-away. they don't charge interest, just a small fee, and then it's 8 weeks to pay it off. also, break out that notepad when you see something you were looking for but can't buy now. i hate trying to remember where i saw that stinking toy after trial-and-error store number 3.
INSTIGATE WRAPPER'S DELIGHT. wrap presents as soon as you buy them. i always do this for three reasons. one - because i'm a freak and i get a high out of wrapping presents. two - because then i can take my time and do a super cute job instead of trying to burn through a mountain of presents on Christmas eve. three - if someone happens upon their present {dan you nosy weasel!} it's already wrapped and they don't know what it is. let's throw in a fourth - Christmas trees look cuter with presents underneath.
SEE INTO THE FUTURE. sales on toys are rockin this time of year. i go ahead and buy caden's birthday presents too. i'd be too broke if i waited till january to do it after Christmas took my last can of who-hash.
START YOUR TO DO LIST. decide what festivities you want to do with your fam now. then look up dates online and pencil them into your schedule. december is a busy month and if you go see Santa when he first appears at the mall, you probably won't have to wait in a line.
TAKE A LOAD OFF. go through toys and clothes and take the biggest load you can manage to good will. play the 6 month game. if it hasn't been worn/played with for 6 months it won't be missed. you're making room for all the new goodies you'll get, plus you're providing a better selection to those who will be having a second hand Christmas this year.
BUY PB. when you go to the grocery store, throw in an extra jar of peanut butter or can of tuna. then when the food drives come - a - knocking you can give them the good stuff they really need.
GET HOT FOR TEACHER. not that way - with a glue gun! i love to give homemade crafts that parker helped make. if we start now, we can take our time and even to do a re-craft if the first turned out kinda scary.
ADDRESS THE PEOPLE. update your addresses and print your envelopes. or at least labels. even if you don't have your Christmas cards ready. it will put them in the front of your mind, and addressing is the most tedious part anyway, right?
BUY BATTERIES. and batteries, amen.

Good luck to you all and to all a merry Christmas.

but wait - there's more!

2010-10-31T13:43:00.000-07:00

he's gone mad - mad I tell you!!

and beware his unholy creation!

Parker was very theatrical. he developed a little laugh he would do for people. he didn't understand that 'mad scientist' meant crazy though. when people asked him if that's what he was he'd say, "no. i'm a happy scientist!"

Caden was very in character too. what with all the frightening tantrums and the weeping and wailing? he was a very convincing monster! the poor thing hated the bolts glued to his neck.

I'm sorry son but mom is a costume Nazi. the bolts are an essential part of frankenstein's monster and a neck strap won't look convincing enough. you will endure in the name of Halloween and like it!

get ready for the halloween shake down!

2010-10-31T13:10:00.000-07:00

the season's festivities included...

going to a pumpkin patch with cousin grant

this is my fave. note Dan's disgusted expression.
now direct your eyes to the child on the far left.
that's why.

oh look. happy again.

finding 'the one.'

handsome boy.

and that's when my camera's battery died.

witches' night out.

the geddes girls and I

earl the owl. we met at gardner village.
it was love at first sight.

the nevin witches

we got a little loopy as the night wore on and the sugar kicked in.

what child wouldn't follow this one into her gingerbread house in the woods?!

carving pumpkins - of course.

everyone knows you carve better when you stick your tongue out.

fuits of their labors.

a full range of emotion.

witches be crafty!

2010-10-29T20:44:00.000-07:00

I think my boys may be growing up with a model of the female homemaker that's disproportionate to, perhaps, what is more common. Every woman they know and care about is a wicked creatin' machine! I just hope their future wives are into it too or they might think something is wrong with them.

I'll admit I may go a tiny bit overboard sometimes. but hey - I'm not the only one!

festive pillow cases made by Grandma. {my mom}
they look adorable on the boys' orange polka dot sheets.

homemade eyeballs.
we grabbed a package or two of white ping pong balls from the dollar store,
added a few colored permanent markers and...

but none were cuter than the ones parker made.
great kids craft - he had so much fun he was giddy!

spooky broach.
hit the dollar store again for an assorted bag of plastic critters.
'paint' them with regular school glue and coat with glitter.
i did about two coats. when it's dry, attach a bar pin on the back with hot glue.
makes a fabulous party favor!
careful where you pin it though - this guy has roving hands!

spidey pillow.
I stitched mine with heavy white thread and my machine.
but you can achieve the same effect with fine yarn and hot glue.
the fairy god-mother of all glues.

poisoned apples.
grab the already made caramel apple dip {chocolate flavor} from the store and warm it up. Whisk some in a bowl with a teaspoon or two of boiling water to make it more runny.
add a drop of black food coloring and drizzle on top of apples.
then gently shake to make it creep down the sides. don't worry, it'll dry.
spooky. and tasty. spasty. or tooky?

trick -or- treat bag made by Nanna. {dan's mom}
I swear they didn't call each other.
they just happened to make their projects out of coordinating fabric.

Spider's nest cupcakes.
great for your next party.
these remind me of the book: the trouble with mom.
darling book! recommended read for the kiddos.
not just for Halloween either.

a scary story for Halloween

2010-10-29T09:53:00.000-07:00

Last night Dan and I put the boys to bed and kicked back to watch a little t.v. After a while we heard Parker making some distressed noises.
"He must be sick." I said.

We went down to his room to find him clawing at his throat and an expression of utter panic on his face. Dan asked him what he swallowed and he managed to get out "a button."
He has a magnet board in his room with 1" buttons glued to the magnets.

I quickly sat down on his bed and told Dan to get him some water. He was pulling at his throat like he was trying to get it from the outside. It was clearly still lodged in there. I was so terrified in the few seconds it took me to deliberate. Should I try to give him the Heimlich with my limited memory, or should I try to help him swallow it completely? If a kid swallows two magnets, it could cause some serious damage to their intestines.

Just then he started to vomit and I bent him over my knee to get it on the floor. As soon as he bent over, the magnet shot out like a bullet and landed across the room. The edges were all chewed like he was gnawing on it for a little bed time snack. It must have slipped down his throat accidentally. Why a 5 year old would put a button in his mouth is beyond me!

But he came away with nothing more than a sore throat and a whole lot of fear. For now, we will be hanging his artwork with tape.

my, what big hair you have!

2010-10-27T12:07:00.001-07:00

....the better to rock you with my dear.

I read a blog called modern kiddo - which is quite cute. And she featured an artist named Michael Fleming, a.k.a. tweedlebop. I thought his art was supa cute so I popped over to his sight to maybe find something to adorn judey's walls.

that's when I found this gem.

Can someone with tight curls please topiary their hair? Mine is thin and straight or else I would accept the calling. {Julie, I'm looking at you.}

I miss these mop tops.

2010-10-25T22:27:00.001-07:00

I can't wait for their hair to grow back. I vow to never never buzz it again. no matter how many times I get asked when I'm going to cut it, no matter how sweaty they get in the summer.

did I cut off his face?

2010-10-19T18:38:00.000-07:00

Probably. When Parker's teacher said they were going to do school pictures, I imagined something much cheesier. You know the navy marbled back drop, the 'turn your body away from me, turn you head towards me. Now crank you neck so your ear touches your shoulder. ' - like we're all contortionists.
Isn't my boy so handsome? Even though he looks a good 3 years older than he is.
View more of the photographers stuff here.

Magic Lotion

2010-10-19T08:56:00.000-07:00

I have had a rash on my face for about 8 years. My dermatologist diagnosed it as peri-oral dermatitis. And for 8 years he has not been able to prescribe anything to make it go away. whether it's a big patch or small, on my chin or the corner of my mouth, it's been my obnoxious constant companion. And this last pregnancy, I thought it was going to host a hostile take-over! Then I went into a beauty supply store and the girls at the counter told me to try Cocoon lotion. BRILLIANT!

I've been using it for about 2 months now and my rash completely gone! I put it on all over my face right after the shower, on the infected area periodically throughout the day, and then all over again at night. It's like a miracle.

If you hate your skin - you must try this. The back says it heals dermatitis, eczema, acne and psoriasis just to name a few. (And I've noticed my blackheads diminishing too.) I paid $35 for a big bottle which is the same as my co-pay at the derm.

Here's to happy faces - CHEERS!

yeah, they're beautiful. and yes, they're mine.

2010-09-29T20:06:00.000-07:00

now some of you may have heard this one. a few weeks ago, i took the boys to the grocery store. the clerk took a look at Parker and could not say enough about how beautiful he is. oh my goodness, you are so handsome! look at your beautiful dark eyes. look at those eyelashes! etc. etc. then she turned on Caden. you have the eyes too! you are both so handome! what beautiful eyes!! gush gush gush.

then she looked at me. she turned back to Parker and said...

you must look like your dad.

thank you?

ideas for jude judy's room

2010-09-23T22:06:00.001-07:00

scalloped fabric garland
sweetjessie

heavenly white room

whoops! how'd this get in here? gorgeous though.
{sorry, no link}

pinwheel quilt
{courtesy of anna maria horner}

waverly sun n shade in lenox horizon

WowWall

boys make me blue

2010-09-21T12:48:00.001-07:00

I've been asked by many if I'm disappointed that I'm having another boy and the answer is, sorta. I'm not worried one little bit about the sweet little thing in my gut that is already giving me lower back pain. the thing I'm bummed about is no decorating a girls room or buying dolls or sewing dresses. and gosh darn it, i'm SICK of baby blue. so while I don't need to buy anything {and man! i really don't!} here are some things I would like to get....

combi hot rod bouncer

coZibug swaddler

and as soon as we de-crib the bug, i can start on little J's room. I'm excited to show what I come up with.
so you know what would make me smile? if you want to throw me a hypothetical baby shower, post a link of some really cool baby boy product, that is completely unnecessary, in my comments. then I can shop new and wonderful things as if this boy were my first!

and the baby is....

2010-09-08T08:18:00.000-07:00

a boy. I would put a picture on, but the ultrasound tech didn't think it important to give me one of his face. {I have two of his boy parts though}

so get ready world, it's raining men. and I hope you like 'em tall, dark and handsome.

p.s. I may be making my blog private in the next little while. I can't get the koreans off my back. at least I think they're korean.

I have some 'splaining to do

2010-06-21T08:51:00.000-07:00

wow that's a big picture! yes. I am.
You won't be seeing me for a few months.
Don't come visit me. I might puke on you.

I'm not pregnant.

2010-05-26T08:46:00.000-07:00

But if I was, I would buy this swimsuit.
I like this one too.
It's a good thing I'm not pregnant. Because my long torso doesn't fit into one-piece swimsuits. and then I would be stuck with two really cute swimsuits that give me a wedgy.
chevron stripe
tropical maldiva

joely

2010-05-23T20:29:00.000-07:00

my cute little bro is graduating from high school and I snapped a few quick pics of him tonight for his announcements. If you think this one is supa cool, wait till you see the next...

ta da!

my also cute sister-in-law Julie introduced me to the world of picnik. my my joel. you are looking shnazzy!
(ok. now that I've seen this on blog, you should know it looks way cooler in the photo programs.)

nobody likes their peanut butter spread too thin.

2010-05-20T11:14:00.000-07:00

and I am that peanut butter. I've just been trying to do too much lately and, as always, my body has slammed on the brakes. Yes- I'm sick.
So something's gotta give. and sadly? it's this:

Oh I was so thrilled to be picked. It would have been my first show/market/boutique/whatever you want to call it. But I come back from the Bahamas the night before. And all this extra curricular sewing has left no time to make product. I guess I could just sell candy...
So needless to say, big frowny face. but what's this?

Ok. their banner is nowhere near as cute. but they contacted me to be one of their vendors and I have a notion to say "Yes! Very much Yes!" It would be the second Saturday of every month until October. I am equally excited.
You see? Sometimes when fate closes a door... it opens a mountain aire market.

late mother's day card

2010-05-13T10:58:00.001-07:00

If you forgot your mom on mom's day, perhaps you can make it up to her with this card. The message says, "Thanks for your support." but I think it would be equally amusing with the message, "My cup runneth over."

See card here.

FYI part 2

2010-05-13T10:18:00.000-07:00

I've changed some settings on my blog.

Hopefully this will remedy the invasion.

we shall see.

Do you like the 'rio?

2010-05-07T09:40:00.000-07:00

Me too.

Especially their pork barbacoa. and I used to have this killer recipe for it. but I lost it.
so i went searching for it today and I came across this.

http://family.rmphelps.com/2009/07/cafe-rio-to-eat-or-not-to-eat.html

oh mystery man. You are the reason that so much of the world thinks that BYU students are prudes. {pardon my french}

FYI

2010-05-07T08:49:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends,

If you ever see a crazy korean or japanese or whatever comment on my blog, please don't click on the user's profile.

When I first got one, I clicked on the profile to see what the heck it was. The blog it lead to was {I'm pretty sure, I can't read japanese} explicit. And now I get the comments frequently! I think it's some kind of creeper, viral thing. SO DON'T CLICK ON IT OR THEY WILL HAUNT YOUR BLOG TOO!

Take care my loves.

Yikes!

2010-05-05T08:59:00.000-07:00

I've just seen my first 'look alike' of my hat from an alternate universe! Now I'm not original :(
But mine is cuter right? Personally I hate theirs. But that's just me.

THEIRS

MINE

THEIRS ALSO

No, I don't have a version of this, but it cracks me up.
It reminds me of the SNL hair club for babies skit.

This is the one

2010-05-05T08:45:00.000-07:00

This will be perfect for Parker's party.
I think I can manage to copy this, with a few of my own touches.

And it may be a little soon to be planning, but this is for sure Caden's for next year.
We will be taking a tour of the fire station a couple blocks from our house.
{Totally Dan's idea. I know, he's a pretty awesome hubby.}

A bounty of beauties here.

family pictures

2010-05-04T21:04:00.001-07:00

Well, I think the mini session went well. It's great to do a test run. Now I can confirm my suspicions that I'm terrible at picking outfits. I like what Dan and I are wearing, but Parker looks like a John Denver fan and Caden looks like a waiter at an ice cream parlor. Believe it or not, I'm wearing a TON of eye makeup. I was worried too much. Next time, I think I might even put on more.

Feedback? Please give me your tips and advice. I want to take ultimate best ever family pictures soon. How did you get yours?

headbands

2010-05-04T10:04:00.001-07:00

I was adding some new headbands to the shop, {see photo of my darling boy modeling above. Will he ever forgive me?} And I was curious what page I would end up on. Page 11. There are a bazillion headbands out there!! Some are cute, but some....

this child doesn't even look remotely happy to have this satellite dish strapped to her head.
{will she ever forgive her parents?}

There are a lot of these birdcage headbands out there right now, but I think everyone's kinda missing the mark. I think this one is sweet, the best I've seen of this style, although the scale is still just a touch too large. Beautiful picture.
{my goodness I'm a headband snob for someone who doesn't even have a girl!}

amazon flower
vintage birdcage

a midsummer night's dream

2010-05-02T15:42:00.000-07:00

is the inspiration for the bridal hairpiece. I've been playing with some whimsical bridal lace that Stacy brought over. I have a good idea of where I'm going, but I wanted to see what came to other people's minds when they think, MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DEAM.
and what better place to look for creative inspiration than etsy?

bracelet

choker

headband

earings

hard to see, but this is a headband

since we're talking about monkeys

2010-04-27T16:59:00.000-07:00

Ok. one last weird post from me. {i say that so often} and because i find myself so amusing...

a joke for you:
A highway patrolman stops a man speeding. As he approaches his car, he is perplexed to see it full of monkeys.

"What's with all the monkeys?"

"I don't know! I just got in my car this morning and they were in here. I can't get them out either. And now I'm going to be late for work! I don't know what to do."

"Well, why don't you just take them to the zoo?"

"Ok. Thanks." and the man drove off.

The next day, the highway patrolman stopped the same man, again, with his car full of monkeys.

"I thought you were going to take those monkeys to the zoo?!!"

"I did. And they liked it so much, today we are going to circus."

ha ha ha ha

Is my notebook getting full yet?

2010-04-27T16:51:00.001-07:00

whenever Caden does something naughty, which is everyday, I scold him and call him a monkey. {alright, I call him monkey turd but that makes me sound like a bad mother.} I was cleaning yogurt off the floor this afternoon and calling him a monkey... and I was reminded of this book from my childhood. so I looked it up on Amazon because the child will surely enjoy it. But then I found this:
Do you believe in kismet? I'm ordering both. perhaps I'll find party inspiration in their pages. I'm already loving the colors.

A recommended read, these books, even if you're not planning any parties.

gasp!

2010-04-27T16:39:00.000-07:00

oh wait - can you see it? well you can see it bigger here.

add to the list...

2010-04-27T16:04:00.001-07:00

a few more things on the summer agenda:
make a bridal headband sample for Stacy (not a big deal, but should I need inspiration...)
decorate bedroom
paint front door
finish a room in the basement for dream sewing room
re-do Parker's room and move in The Bug
stop neglecting my store/store's blog

Sadly, not on the agenda is DECORATE NURSERY.
especially not DECORATE THE MUCH DESIRED LITTLE GIRL'S NURSERY.

BUT i HAVE THOSE VERY MAGNETIC WALL FLOWERS COLLECTING DUST IN MY BASEMENT!!!
Don't even think about asking me for them. I'm not giving up on my girl till a doctor tells me it's physically impossible for me to conceive one.

and even then, I'll get a second opinion.

{see this room here}

and so it begins...

2010-04-22T11:10:00.001-07:00

I saw these FREE invitations at iDIY. I'm diggin the orange. and with a circus font? Hello birthday invites!!!

chocolate chocolate chocolate...aack!

2010-04-22T10:07:00.000-07:00

{I hope you all know what I'm quoting}

many things are coming to pass right now! man alive! I have thought traffic in my head! so right now my blog is going to be my notebook of sorts to collect them all and keep them so they don't get lost. {aren't blogs great?!}
Here's what's on the agenda this summer:

FAMILY PICTURES

I don't even know these people. But they look much happier than we ever could. We are having a mini session on Saturday with Kari Hennefer - a sort of trial run. I'm hoping to get the real deal soon after. I cut dan's hair this morning. One down - two to go. No time for me to get one before then :( {Stacy, you're the best set of shears in the West!} I shall be scheming what we'll wear and poses I like. My goal is to finally have one where I like the way I look, and my kids are smiling. Hey - it could happen!

ALTER WEDDING DRESS

This cutie is Eric Player. She's my friend Candis' baby sister. She bought herself a pretty wedding dress from Alyses for her wedding in June. {I think we all know how I feel about that place.} We'll see if I can't get this dress to go from 'pretty' to divine in the next few weeks before her bridals.

CRUISE TO THE BAHAMAS

We're getting the H out of dodge at the end of May. I'm going to need to drop a few lbs and find some seriously cute beach clothes till then. Woo Woo! Can't wait!

THIS

I applied for this for the beginning of June. I don't know if I'm accepted yet - baby accessories is a cut throat market! but if I am, I going to get my rear in gear sewing product, making newbies, and finding some cute ideas for booth set up.

MY BRO IS GETTING MARRIED

in the middle of June. I don't have to do anything for the wedding, but I'll be danged if my kids don't look absolutely adorable there! Plus I'll need a stellar dress. We'll see if I have time to make one.

THIS HANDSOME FELLOW IS TURNING 5!

I distinctly remember my 5th birthday. My parents threw me a circus party and I can still hear the John Phillips Sousa they played. He too shall have a circus/carnival party. It shall be my best work ever.

Plus there's planning the shower for my sister-in-law, Erin, helping plan the layout for my mother-in-law's booth at the Home Quilt Show in two weeks, bridal showers, home projects, and planting something, ANYTHING, in my dirt outside. Not forgetting all the birthdays, Hil is having a baby, Katie is having a baby. more goodies, more showers... my country's 500th anniversary to plan, my wedding to arrange, my wife to murder, and Gilder to frame for it. I swamped!

So the real question is: Will my bathroom ever get cleaned? I don't know.

boycott winter

2010-04-06T20:31:00.001-07:00

It's time to say "NO to snow"! Because you let it happen once, and then it hangs around all dang year!!
Dan looks like a little winter gnome with his hat back like that, yes? I asked him "why so dorky?" He replied, "If I wear my hat, my head gets warm."
Hmmmm. I didn't even bother to continue that discussion. After all, he does have a point.

All I do these days is sit around watching chick flicks and folding laundry in my 'me' time. I just can't be motivated in these conditions. And to top it off, Caden has the cold that wouldn't leave. {By the way, nothing is more unsettling than to hear your two year old sneeze while you're driving, turn back to see two channels of snot bridging his nostrils and upper lip, turn back to grab some tissue which you keep handy in the front seat for just such an occasion, only to turn back to said two year old and the snot has magically disappeared. nothing.}

but here's a little funsie tag, just for ... well, funsies.

If I was a month, I'd be May, or June. Whichever is nicer this year.
If I was a day of the week, I'd be Saturday Saturday.
If I was a time of day, I'd be Naptime.
If I was planet, I'd be Earth. blue and green.
If I was a sea animal, I'd be a crab in the morning and a whale at night.

If I was a direction, I'd be North. because I'm tall.
If I was a piece of furniture, I'd be a long, tufted chaise lounge. reupholstered in a fun print.
If I was a liquid, I'd be cold.
If I was a gemstone, I'd be a sapphire.
If I was a tree, I'd be green?! {inside joke for all you Drop Dead Gorgeous fans}

If I was a tool, I'd be a rotary cutter, or a staple gun.
If I was a flower, I'd be an orchid. because I really only need to be watered once a week.
If I was a kind of weather, I'd be fairweather.
If I was a musical instrument, I'd be a trumpet, I think.
If I was a color, I'd be a warm blue. A little moody, a little whimsical.

If I was an emotion, I'd be enthusiastic, most of the time.
If I was a fruit, I'd be a strawberry. which is technically not a fruit.
If I was a sound, I'd be whirr whirr.
If I was an element, I'd be water, but can I come in the form of summer rain?
If I was a car, I'd be a vintage jaguar convertible roadster. probably '39-'41. Painted a lovely hollandaise color. wait - is this the car we'd be, or the car we want?

Tag - you're it.

Are these adorable or what?

2010-03-31T10:48:00.001-07:00

They also come in brown but I think you'll agree that the green is so much cuter. And they nest!
And they're at Costco of all places! Now where can I put them?

making pretties

2010-03-16T21:56:00.001-07:00

for some lovelies.
these are some gifts I've crafted lately. and now that they are actually in the possession of the giftee, I can show you.
{spell check is suggesting I replace giftee with Giffer. I don't think so spell check!}

my brother taught me how to tie scarves like this, I'm ashamed to admit.

I went to a hippie school when I was 8. Beading was one of my classes.
{I'm so not joking}

This pattern was bought at Ithinksewdotcom.etsy.com although right now it looks like she isn't doing slipper patterns. The patterns are great but the instructions are a little confusing,
if you're the type that relies on those.

sometime back in January. . .

2010-03-12T14:09:00.001-08:00

my baby turned 2. So we put him out in the snow to think about what he'd done until he was ready to come in and apologize.

what can I say? he was just super thrilled about the new hat I made him.

he clung to Uncle Sam a lot of the time too.

my brother-in-law Tucker, sister-in-law Julie, nephew Korbin and baby brother Jared

Parker's skinned face, which he cried about only AFTER it was suggested that maybe he'd had enough sledding for the day.

gotta love Korbin's snow suit! which, with the built-in vest, gives you two for the price of one.

my nephew Grant had a blast. This kid is up for anything adventurous.

Jared and Parker - looking a little dazed. must have been after the face skid.

my sister-in-law Hilary, and my sister-in-law Erin.
{both expecting!}

Caden loves Hiya-EE.

my brother Matt and his soon-to-be wife Andrea.

Grant having way more fun than Caden on the way down.

you know, I never did get that apology.

have you seen this?

2010-03-10T19:27:00.000-08:00

One of the movies Dan and I scored at the Hollywood Video out-of-business-extravaganza was The Brothers Bloom. We had never seen it but my brother Andrew and his cute wife Julie said it was good. And for $5, I thought ... why not?

Now I know it's a little late for a review, but I think this movie got a raw deal, so allow me to impart my own thoughts about it.

It's your typical con man movie that's a bit on the quirky side that I found both amusing and intriguing. There is a sweet under story, however; stealthily laid beneath the popcorn exterior. and I can always tell I liked a movie when I keep thinking about it afterward. But it wasn't until little pieces of the movie came floating back to me that I realized exactly how deep and touching the under story was. It wasn't obviously shoved in your face like so many other movies do. The writers expected their audience had a bit more intelligence than the superficial movie goer. {thank you guys} perhaps that's why it didn't get the best of reviews?

At any rate, I was driving to Big Lots, {I just love that store. I bought some really cute mirrors. perhaps a pic later?} and it hit me with full force leaving me to fight off the bawl. Ok, maybe I'm being silly. Maybe you'll watch it and think, what the heck is she talking about?

It's that dang Adrien Brody. This isn't the first time he's haunted me after a movie. I couldn't sleep the night after I saw The Village. It wasn't me worried about a woodland monster getting me - paleease! I don't scare that easy. It was images of Adrien Brody as an innocent, all be it disturbed, mentally handicapped kid bleeding to death in a pit.

where was I? Oh yeah. super long post = I think I really liked this movie and I recommend it if you're not completely confused by this novel I've written.

Vacation, all I ever wanted

2010-03-08T10:36:00.000-08:00

Dan and I read a book that said of all the things you invest your money in, your relationship should be at the top of the list. Meaning, couples don't take enough vacations together because they feel it's a frivolous expense. Sure Dan and I would love to take off to Costa Rica, but we just don't have $3000 lying around and the tax return is already earmarked. So instead, we went here. It was beautiful and relaxing, even though we don't ski. (don't worry, we got a screaming deal on the room)

We shopped till we dropped - can you say outlet mall? HOLLA! and we saw the new Alice in Wonderland in {drum roll please}..... 3D!! I have a teeny bit of a hard time with 3D. Things jumping right in your face? I have a hard enough time just showing affection to my extended family and making eye contact with new acquaintances. (hey - a girl needs a bubble of personal space to be self-conscious in) But after getting over the trauma, it really was so cool to be in Wonderland in person.
We ate, we laughed, we cried, (mostly just Dan as he watched his bank account dwindle away right before his very eyes) and then we went home. The Hollywood Video by his parents house was going out of business, so we stocked up. Dan was surely in heaven. They were still renting their video games so I grabbed Beatles Rockband and asked the clerk, "are these for sale too?" yep - $20. Score! Now Dan loves me forever. 8 dvds and 2 xbox games later, my man was satisfied. We even got to end the trip by rounding up the Ged-heads for a little jam session. And I found out I'm not so terrible on the bass. on easy. who knew?

Thanks Nana and Gramps for watching our little rugrats so this could be possible. We had a blast!

P.S. how is it that Johnny Depp can still be good looking, even when he's not good looking? some people - garr!

ok. one more weird post from me.

2010-03-03T14:22:00.001-08:00

so this picture is a little creepy. ok, it's a lot creepy. but now look at it and sing domo arigato mr. roboto. domo. domo. in your head.

you're laughing right?

I bought a new robot for the kitchen...

2010-03-03T13:56:00.001-08:00

It's about time robot cooks were made available to the general public! I'm so excited. I hope it makes good lasagna. This is really going to help me out on those busy days -wait- it's just a food processor?

oh. well this is disappointing. I guess I should have read all the features before I bought it. $30 did seem a little cheap.

what would it be like to short, or even normal?

2010-03-02T17:24:00.001-08:00

I saw these shoes at Garnet Hill.
I love!
I want!
A 4" heel?
oh well.
Maybe one of you could buy them so I can admire them in person and pretend they're mine?

ha ha ha! woops!

2010-02-24T16:33:00.000-08:00

No, I meant the kids I'm neglecting. I know what a negligee is (wink wink) but I thought maybe it had two meanings - you know like "negligent parenting". I typed in "neglectees" and that's what the spell check suggested. And since I'm known for making up my own words, I thought I would trust it. {Curse you spell check, for making me look like a fool!}

Um. So no one likes my headband idea? very well.

And this commercial hasn't gotten old yet! tee hee.

bleah. I think I'm dying...

2010-02-16T15:26:00.000-08:00

Ug. I've been yucky sick lately. I literally spent yesterday on the couch sleeping with the remote in my hand and waking up at hour and a half intervals just long enough to push the play button for my jamma wearing negligees. aka: my kids.
(hey hil, did I use that word in the right context?)
but i had an order that had to go out today, so life went on and I found myself at the computer, emailing my customer. blah blah.
Then I found a picture of this little apple dumpling in my inbox:

too cute for words! I saw her on Valentines day and did not even get to hold her. Talk about a cruel irony!
quick tangent: I've been debating on whether or not to additionally sell headbands in my shop since they are SOOO available this day and age. What do you think? Yay or nay? Please tell.

anywho. Then I saw these and decided they must become mine:

I'm just excited about the customization process! oh joy - a calling card with my lovelies on it?
What could be better? such a clever idea too.
Isn't that hair-do just so Parker?
And I wanted to say 'thanks' for the birthday greetings. I had one of the best birthdays ever. Dan gathered all my best girls {unbeknown to me.} and had them waiting for me at Olive Garden. I was so surprised. {And I am NEVER surprised.} I had a fantastic time, got some fantastic gifts, and am just sick I don't have pictures to document! Maybe that's why I feel so cruddy right now?

Happy V-day

2010-02-13T10:53:00.001-08:00

The boys just wanted to say:
Be Mine.

And how could anyone not want to?

{Parker's is infinitely better than Caden's
because he actually knows how to hold still. oh well.}

The Greatie Eighties

2010-02-04T14:31:00.001-08:00

some really awesome things were born in in the eighties:

the side ponytail...

80's movies...

tetris (obviously!)...

some really great tunes...

And me!

That's right - today is my birthday. And before anyone goes jumping to conclusions,
my hair is half up in this picture. I do not have an extreme mullet. My mother may have given me a Joseph Smith haircut when I was 12, but nobody's that cruel!

All mullet's aside. The 80's were great! And I submit that there is no better decade for music, before or after. So I've compiled a list of some of my fave 80's tunes. 27 to be exact. One for every year of my life. And my birthday wish is that you will search out and download these beauties to your ipod, or a burn yourself a CD if you like to kick it old school like me. What to do next is simple. Pull up your leg warmers, pull down the blinds in the kitchen, and boogie down.

But boogie like you mean it.

1. Funkytown - Lipps Inc
2. Money - The Flying Lizards
3. Bad Reputation - Joan Jett
4. You Make My Dreams - Hall & Oates
5. Should I Stay or Should I Go? - The Clash
6. Kids in America - Kim Wilde
7. Come on Eileen - Dexy's Midnight Runners
8. Goody Two Shoes - Adam Ant
9. When Doves Cry - Prince
10. It's My Life - Talk Talk
11. Take On Me - Aha
12. Once in a Lifetime - Talking Heads
13. Addicted to Love - Robert Palmer
14. Rock Me Amadeus - Falco
15. Just Like Heaven - The Cure
16. Beds are Burning - Midnight Oil
17. A Little Respect - Erasure
18. Faith - George Michael
19. Roam - B52's
20. She Drives Me Crazy - Fine Young Cannibals
21. Sunglasses at Night - Corey Hart
22. Dancing with Myself - Billy Idol
23. Video Killed the Radio Star - The Buggles
24. I Just Can't Get Enough - Depeche Mode
25. Whip It - Devo
26. Voices Carry - Til Tuesday
27. Head Over Heels - Tears for Fears

{these are in no particular order. David Bowie and Michael Jackson were not included because you don't listen to just one of their songs. you listen to the whole album.}

lost in love

2010-02-03T16:15:00.000-08:00

Are you a lost-aholic? {Don't say anything about the premiere - Dan and I are watching it tonight!!}
I saw these on someones blog and snorted with delight. They remind me of the N'SYNC valentines I passed out when I was 16. I liked Lance. Yeah. I know.

More to delight in here

Do you remember me?

2010-02-02T11:45:00.000-08:00

I've been cleaning. Cleaning out the filing cabinet, cleaning out the computer, cleaning out the pantry, my purse, my closet. . . cleaning.

And I've been busy keeping busy. And I've had many decorating schemes. And I have been attempting to eat healthy(er) and exercise.
I have many more reasons why I haven't been posting. And I've had much to post about. Some things I have pictures for, and some I don't. But rather than take 3 hours of your life away with details you really don't care about, I'll sum up.
Here is what I've been up to for the past 3 months:

Ha ha ha! No not really.
But here is what I really have been up to starting with November:

And if nobody minds, I'll post more pictures of my baby's birthday later.
{but he's not really a baby anymore}

a little plug

2009-12-02T20:22:00.001-08:00

I've put some brand new winter hats in the shop. Go and check'em out on here.

You're my peeps so you don't have to pay full price. I'll give you 15% off. Just make sure to tell me who you are so I can give you the hook ups. And you should know they come in bigger kid sizes too. So big in fact, the l/xl fits MY head circumference. Now let us rejoice.

(The bigger ones are available now, I'm just waiting to list them

till Saturday when they can get more traffic. sneaky sneaky )

one more thing: pink is not every girl's color. Any of the hats can be made for either a boy or girl. I also have another boy one coming soon.

who dun it?

2009-11-25T11:44:00.001-08:00

{we are doing our 'menacing' faces here. my fave is dan.}

We had a progressive dinner with each house being a room from the game.

I highly recommend getting a group together and having your own Clue party.

My brother reminded me about Clue: Master Detective Edition

which has more suspects, weapon, and rooms.

We got a new love seat

2009-11-18T20:30:00.000-08:00

I think dan loves it.

the rest

2009-11-17T14:36:00.000-08:00

remember that really bad family pic of us?

well here are the good ones.

what a good lookin bunch

Double Trouble

Grant, Jordan and Erin

By the way, she is pregnant. Doesn't she look fantastic?

(hee hee. she doesn't like getting compliments when she's 'with child' but I really do mean it)

Hil and Sam

Zac

AVAILABLE:

Likes romantic evenings playing video games, quoting movies, and has an impressive sword collection. Very sweet and thoughtful. An excellent swimmer. Fluent in Tagalog.

Not crazy about persons possessing large quantities of dogs.

Email me for digits.

Maddie

ALSO AVAILABLE:

Loves sharing romantic 'ketchup only' dinners for two. Can make weird hats look good. Will probably beat you at any sport, including table tennis. Gives AMAZING back rubs and bakes a wicked awesome brownie or raspberry mini muffin.

Men under the age of 35 need not apply. (You're just not her type.)

Email me for digits

Nanna and Gramps

oooh. dreamy.

The boys

The girls.

(Don't mind me. When they said 'wear something autumnal', I thought, "yes. I will wear orange and orange. because how many other 'autumnal' colors could there be?"

So we might have been getting a little silly towards the end

Patrick is a big BYU fan. This was his requested pose.

Personally, I'm digging the orange skirt with the oversized hoodie.

O frabjous day!

2009-11-10T20:42:00.001-08:00

This may mean nothing to some of you, and is probably TMI to most of you, but tonight, Parker has.........
POOPED IN THE POTTY!
Those of you who are well acquainted with the situation, should have no difficulties picturing me dancing the jig that I am right now.
I have never been so excited to see a gigantic turd in the toilet in all my life! And reflecting back, I am feeling nauseous about how closely and how long we examined that turd while offering every word of praise and acknowledgment we could think of.

My boy has become an official big boy.

WOOT WOOT!

Happy Happyween

2009-11-04T15:02:00.000-08:00

where the heck did that month go? (so much for posting top tens, huh? as always, my bark is worse than my bite.) Well it's been madness I tell you. With family pictures, missionary homecomings, primary programs, fall festivities, babies being born and Halloween, I'm wondering whether to clean my pig sty of a house, or have a mental break down.

I was crazy busy sewing for everyone else, but I managed to eek out a few costumes for the boys at the last minute. don't laugh. Can you tell who they are?

Nanna and Gramps came over Halloween night to help
eat candy - uh, trick-or-treat.

The boys sure love when they come around!

And on Oct. 27:

Chloe Marie Foit was born!

Hooray!! She is soooo adorable!

Do you like her beanie? I'm dressing her already.

Oh what fun it will be having a niece!

Oh yeah.

And this guy is getting married. I know what you're thinking:

What?! They've legalized marriage between aliens and humans in Utah?

It's hard to believe myself, but he actually is human. And so is the girl he's convinced to marry him. and what's more is, she's really cute!

So congrats to Matt,

condolences to Andrea

I spy with my little eye...

2009-10-24T15:48:00.000-07:00

Cookie Truffles. You will need:
{and not in this order}
1. green food coloring
2. pure orange extract (optional)
3. about 1 tsp vegetable oil
4. 8 0z block cream cheese - softened
5. 16-18 0z pkg sandwich cookies
(your choice - I used lemon)
6. mini chocolate chips
7. 12 0z pkg white chocolate baking chips

You will also need:
1. double boiler
2. food processor
(this is mandatory! If you don't have one, call around to see who does.
Tell them if they let you borrow it, you'll make it worth their while.)
3. melon baller
4. large toothpicks
5. super professional piping bag (or ziplock, whatever)
6. paper nut cups (optional)

Finely crush your cookies in the food processor and toss into the lovely artisan your hubbie bought you for Christmas, or a large mixing bowl. Cube your cream cheese and toss that in too.
Mix

After it is well blended and looks like cookie dough,
shape into balls with your melon baller.

Place in pan or plate and freeze for 20-30 min.
Meanwhile, add your white chips and v. oil to your double boiler and melt over med/low heat.
Stir until smooth. Stir in approx. 1/2 tsp orange extract.
Remove glass bowl and set on a hot mat near a good work surface.

Remove cookie balls from freezer. One at a time, insert toothpick into bottom of each ball and dip in melted w. chocolate, turning to coat. Pull off toothpick and let cool on wax paper. Your fingers will get messy. Wait till you've dipped all the balls before licking them.

Stir in 3-4 drops food coloring to remaining w. chocolate. (If chocolate has hardened, re-melt in double boiler and allow to cool a bit) Scoop up now g. chocolate and spoon into ziplock. Snip a small hole in one corner and squeeze all chocolate to it. Pipe little circles on each ball and top with choc. chip. (go pipe, chip, pipe, chip or the chocolate will harden.)

I switched to the regular sized choc. chips because I thought the mini ones look too much like... well, you know! Then I decided they both did. So you pick, dilated pupils or no.
Chill in the fridge about an hour. Place in paper nut cups and arrange on platter for your party.

or find a cute box and give some to the friend that let you borrow their food processor.

be sure to include a quirky message.

{store them in the fridge, they are much better chilled. and you can make them ahead of time too. Just don't put them in the freezer once they've got the choc. on them - they might bloom.}

ENJOY!

tee hee!

2009-10-22T17:56:00.001-07:00

The whole Geddes clan got some family pictures done last Saturday with a new photographer.

{I'll be sure and post the good ones later.}

But I just can't stop giggling at this one of my fam. Oh where do I begin? Parker's enthusiasm? Or the fact that I look like a hiker that just decided to poke my head into the picture at the last second?
Or that it's SOOO edited that it looks like a newspaper clipping?

Or the thought that we'd like this picture enough to even want it edited?

{oh man! I know it's not nice, but I can't stop laughing at it!}

overheard thru the baby moniter today

2009-10-21T19:49:00.000-07:00

Parker: Do want to read a stowy?

... awight...

This is a story about a truck.

a truck and a coor {car}

Caden: Guck!

Parker: Da truck goes up da hiw {hill}

Caden: Guuuck!

Parker: Da end.

{brief silence}

That was a good stowy.

{oh man those two are cute!}

she's done it again...

2009-10-21T15:46:00.001-07:00

Anna Maria Horner, why do you torment me with your wares when you know I'm a recovering (well sorta) fabric addict and I'm severely broke?

I WILL have a fancy schmancy couch upholstered in a beautiful print fabric if it's the last thing I do! (If you could just read that in a menacing yet cheesy villain's voice, that would be great.)

And she is coming out with a flannel line soon. *JOY* I just love a good flannel.

What's this? She makes rugs too?

LOVE IT!

Top Ten Random Tips

2009-10-20T08:40:00.000-07:00

In random order.
subtitled: apparently I'm obsessed with my freezer. Invest in a big box of freezer bags.

10. Put a tracking device on your kid. Most grocery/craft stores give away free balloons at their customer service desk. I do my shopping there first and tie one on Parker's wrist. Then if he wanders (at any store) I just look for the bobbing balloon.
9. Two is better than one. I buy two bunches of bananas. a small ripe and a larger bunch of green. As soon as my kids have downed the ripe ones, the green ones are ready to eat - not icky and brown.

8. Get Bulky. I buy bulk packages of meat. Then right when I get home I separate them into meal-sized portions and put them in freezer bags. With a permanent marker I write the (estimated) weight on the bag for easy defrosting. Then I just defrost one for dinner and know it will be the perfect amount. Two for company.

7. Feed your party guests what your family won't eat. For some reason citrus just sits in our fruit basket. Maybe it's because peeling is too much work, maybe it's because you're always gambling when you buy oranges. When they are about to pass their peek, I wash them whole with a little dish soap and slice them into disks. Then, you guessed it, freeze'em. The next time I have a party, I can throw them in the water. They'll add color, flavor and serve as ice.

6. Don't cry over chopped onion. About half an hour+ before I chop it, I stick my onion in the freezer. (it's getting pretty crowded in there) It freezes the vapors that make your eyes water. Which leads me to my next one...

5. Don't cry over chopped onion - part 2. Season your meat with onion soup mix. I do this for meatballs, tacos, lasagna, beef stroganoff, you get the idea. If gives you the onion flavor without having to chop one and without the crunchy little pieces that some picky kids won't eat.

4. Speaking of picky kids, get sneaky with them. Hil got me this awesome book for Christmas called Deceptively Delicious. Basically it sneaks healthy into everyday. My favorite is pureeing spinach and adding it to scrambled eggs. My mom gave me the idea to puree or finely mince zucchini and squash and add it to your spaghetti sauce.

3. If you can't beat'em, let them join you. I used to have a heck of a time getting dinner on the table (in our case island) before midnight. My kids were constantly whining for my attention. I'd give them snacks but then they wouldn't eat dinner. I finally pulled up a chair, put some juice in a pitcher and handed parker a spoon. He stirs quietly while I cook. Caden sits in his high chair with measuring spoons and cups.

2. Make breakfast for dinner. We love pancakes, and waffles for dinner. I like to double my batch and under cook the last ones. After they've cooled, I pair them in freezer bags and pop them into the party going on in my freezer. Then in the morning, I stick them (frozen) into the toaster on a higher than usual setting. {You may have to play with yours to get it right} They are lightly crisp on the outside and moist and fluffy on the inside due to the under cooking the night before.

1. Stick it to your lampshade. Lampshades get dusty because they are fabric. And you can't exactly use pledge on them. I just break out my sticky lint roller and go top to bottom. Then the lint goes in the garbage, not around the house.

There you have it. I would LOVE to hear other tips from you smart people out there.