P A J A M A M A M A || A DIY & Homeschool Blog

Baby Girl's Hair

2012-01-21T12:03:00.000-06:00

I think I may have made a New Years Resolution to do

Baby's hair more intentionally and do more with it.

Enough being intimidated. enough. right?

Here's this week's do:

update:

Have a great weekend!

WIP: Magformers Quilt Top

2012-01-10T17:09:00.001-06:00

I've blogged about them before, here and here, but these Magformers really are an every day toy. We got them for Christmas last year, and I think they have been played with every day since. In fact, over the weekend, we had a couple over for dinner, who said I 'actually didn't need to put those away' while I was cleaning up after the kids to put them to bed. They (real grown ups) didn't mind playing with them while I took the kids up to brush their teeth.

I even like playing with them. And creating quilt tops in my mind with them. Then on graph paper.

I planned to only use my stash, and I did. But I really love solids and honestly don't mind having a stash of solids, so I made it smaller than my drawing as I was running low on purple and yellow. and black, which I used all of. and as soon as I used all my black, I felt the urge to run to the fabric store and get another 2 yards just to have on hand. I'm not a very good stash buster.

What are you working on this week?

linking up to Freshly Pieced WIP Wednesday.

Stuff and stuff

2012-01-06T14:50:00.000-06:00

First, Happy New Years (and did I wish you a Merry Christmas?) and Melkam Genna (today is Ethiopian Christmas)

It's been a while, and I admit I enjoyed the break from technology a bit...but here's what I've been up to:

Working on a 1600 Quilt Race with Belle, whose Christmas present was a sewing machine of her own. (More on that next week?)

Reading The Hunger Games. thus, delaying our official start of school. although we're doing a little. don't worry.

Watching the last season of Friday Night Lights with hubby on Netflix but we're being responsible. not like this.

Learning about essential oils...my cousin is sending me a few oils to try. I have a migraine today and wished the peppermint oil was already here. Instead I rubbed Vicks all over my neck and temples, it helped for a moment, but you know for a migraine there's nothing like a dark room and a bed. Do you have any uses for essential oils? Our public library has zero books on the subject. sad.

Praying for my mom. She is recovering from hip surgery again yesterday.

Savoring my Christmas gifts. I feel like I exchanged very few gifts this year (relatively, to past years) yet I received such sweet and thoughtful gifts-like a Norman Rockwell print from my parents' old house, a year's worth of Ann Voskamp's pages printed and bound to record everyday gifts, and a necklace I've worn everyday since it was given to me.

What are you all up to?

Finished Cardinal Pillow

2011-12-15T16:05:00.000-06:00

Wow! Thanks for the input. I loved hearing your thoughts. And without them, I never would have gone in the direction I did. This is what I ended up with:

I continued the branch down and toward the right so I could use white on the three sides of the left half (or third?). It's not perfect but I think it still works. Hope Mom likes it!

Linked up to Crazy Mom Quilts' Finish It Up Friday.

Cardinal Quilt Block on White or Wood?

2011-12-13T17:03:00.001-06:00

Mom: Stop reading.

So my mom emailed me a picture of a cardinal pillow she found online and asked me if I had any red fabric that color. I took that as a sweet hint that she might like something handmade for Christmas...

Since I'm on a little quilting kick of late, I decided to try paper piecing. Now that the block is done, I'm thinking it might make a better table runner than pillow. And I figured I would put it in an all white runner and maybe a brown binding. But I love love love the wood fabric (from hawthorne threads). It's pretty cool, no? Is it too much if I put the block in the wood fabric?

What do you think? White on white with wood binding? or wood all around? maybe red binding?

Oh, heck, I'll probably just bring it all undone to her house and ask her what she wants...but I'd love to hear your opinions.

A Gift for my Latin Student

2011-12-05T09:07:00.001-06:00

Belle has been taking Latin at our Co-op the last couple of semesters. Her teacher has gone above and beyond what Co-op teachers are expected to do, and is just really excited about the language. So when I saw Dr. Seuss is Latin I had to order one for her.

And while I was on Amazon, I ordered How the Grinch Stole Christmas in Latin for Belle. Okay, that sounds like I'm raising a nerd. Maybe, but she's a pretty cool nerd.

WIP: Finished Sawtooth Star Top

2011-11-28T07:30:00.000-06:00

I love looking at the backs of quilt tops. They are so messy and once quilted, will never be seen again. But those busy, seam-packed backs make the seen part beautiful.

I am anxious to have the whole quilt finished, but I'm still enjoying what this quilt has already become.

What are you working on these days?

ps: linking up to Lee's WIP Wednesday at Freshly Pieced.

Learning Toys Gift Ideas

2011-11-25T09:04:00.000-06:00

For the past couple of years I've posted a few Handmade Holidays ideas. I may still do that, but this year I thought I'd share a list of quality toys that either my kids have already received as gifts or are on our wish list.

For the Musician

Lap Harp (HearthSong)

Hand Bells (HearthSong)

Glockenspiel

For the Scientist

Butterfly Nursery (HearthSong)

Star Theatre (HearthSong)

Potato Clock (Amazon)

For the Crafter

Spool Knitter (Overstock)

Lap Loom (Rainbow Resource)

Easy to Make Moccasin Kit (Vision Forum)

For the Builder

Wall Coaster Ultimate Marble Run (HearthSong)

MagFormers (QVC)

Lego Advent Calendar (Amazon, Target)

For Outside Play

Three Man Sling Shot (Vision Forum)

Mini Trampoline (HearthSong)

Plasma Car (Amazon-although we use ours strictly indoors)

For the Toddler

Shape Sorter (IKEA-great wooden toys)

Cloth Bible (Veritas Press)

Play Food (IKEA)

What toys do you recommend?

ps: One Thankful Mom's posted her family's Top 20 Toys . As a mom of 11, she would know, right?)

The Last Three Books in my Amazon Cart

2011-11-22T09:07:00.000-06:00

I've met my reading goal for the year (39 books). I keep a running list of books and movies on the sidebar, and this year, I just wanted to surpass my previous year's number of books read.

I checked my mailbox on Veteran's day four times, I think, before I realized that the mail was not coming. But my amazon account said three books were on their way. So they came Saturday.

The first was Jesus Calling by Sarah Young. This is a daily devotional written in paraphrased Scripture from the voice of Christ to you. I found it on Pintrest, on a kindred spirit's book board, added it to my cart and left it there. Later that same night, I talked to a living saint from our church. She asked me if I'd heard of Jesus Calling and said to get it and read the day of my birthday. So I did. It was spot on.

Here's part of today's:

Thankfulness is not some sort of magic formula; it is the language of Love, which enables you to communicate intimately with Me. A thankful mind-set does not entail a denial of reality with its plethora of problems. Instead, it rejoices in Me, your Savior, in the midst of trials and tribulations. I am your refuge and strength, an ever present and well-proved help in trouble.

-November 22, Jesus Calling

I also ordered the second book, A Charlotte Mason Companion after seeing it on the same Pintrest board. Maybe that means I need to get out more, but at least I'm reading. This book is not Charlotte Mason's writings but a collection of essays written about using Charlotte's ideas. It feels very practical and encouraging.

The third book, I am almost embarrassed to say that I ordered only for the dust jacket. The book is A Guide to Birds of East Africa. and it's cover is art. And did you know that my oldest daughter is a bird lover? And I know you know my youngest daughter is from East Africa? So yes, I put the $3.99 copy with free shipping in my cart before I even read the summary. Then I read one of the reviews call the author Kenya's version of Botswana's Alexander McCall Smith. I clicked 'Buy Now'.

What have you read and loved this year?

Field Trip #4: Butterfly House

2011-11-11T14:21:00.001-06:00

We used our Groupon to the Texas Discovery Gardens and Butterfly House the day before it expired. And the weather was so perfect, the dads came with us so we could take Christmas card pictures.

The Gardens are free on Tuesdays, but the Butterfly House is still $8/adult, $4/ child-so the deals online for a family pass ($12/family), really are worth it for the Butterfly House entrance. We missed it but at noon everyday they release the butterflies.

Thank you, friends who do school and life with us, for taking 151 photos of my family of squirmers and blinkers. And please don't hate me if I use the first picture you took as our Christmas card. You're the best, truly and really.

The Showoff Bag

2011-11-02T09:57:00.000-05:00

Made by Rae just added a new pattern to her shop-The Showoff Bag. I ordered it last week and made this bag for my mom, to replace her old one. The pattern is great, and overall it's a quick sew. I used Anna Maria Horner's Innocent Crush Velveteen called Woodcut in Crimson for the base of the bag and a washed black denim for the top.

My folks at the Dallas Arboretum.

Thanks for the visit, Mom and Dad-love you both!

ps. i added photos to the showoff bag flickr pool.
i love seeing all the different variations of the same pattern, don't you?

Real Blogging: Our Homeschool Room

2011-10-25T14:07:00.000-05:00

I read a piece of blogging advice somewhere that said you should blog about things that you would want to read yourself. well, duh, kind of, right?

When I thought about what I like to read, I realized I like to see real peoples homes and stuff real people have made and read about real homeschooling. So 'real' is the operative word here. And one post I will always read by a fellow homeschool blogger is one on their schoolroom.

Our schoolroom is far from great, or perfect, but I am thankful for the space that can stay messy, or involved for however long we need it too. And while taking a few pictures of it, I realized it changes each year--evolves to fit our new needs. This year, we added an analog clock, which I read is better for kids to grasp the concept of time, a much needed bookshelf, which now houses our workboxes, and an American flag, which just makes it feel more like a real schoolroom.

And an update on what has been working for us this year:

Right now, my kids love Electric Company, which is on PBS at 7:30 in the morning. They are allowed to come downstairs and do 2 drills (a multiplication/math drill and a grammar drill) at 7. If they are finished in time (they always are), they can watch their show. School happens before breakfast, before I even hit the coffee maker start button. I celebrate this.

What real thing are you celebrating right now?

WIP: Sawtooth Star

2011-10-18T11:22:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure what I was thinking, except that I wanted to make my next quilt entirely of solids. But this quilt has me making 88 sawtooth stars, which broken down, is 352 flying geese triangles. I've been working on it a little over a week (after cutting the fabric for about a month). I now have 40 of the 88 blocks done. The sashing will be more of the grey fabric.

I do love the colors...it'll be perfect for winter, don't you think?

What are you working on this week?

ps, i'm linking up to Freshly Pieced's WIP Wednesday.

Field Trip 3: Dallas Symphony Orchestra

2011-10-12T18:08:00.001-05:00

Today the DSO began their Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra series. We went to a performance for PreK-2nd graders, where we thought we would be judged less severely for children who are not robots. And we were not disappointed. And did not feel judged, even though at any given time at least two of my kids were out of their seats.

Tickets were $6 and a week before the show opened, we received a package in the mail with a CD of the music, and a study guide full of great ideas for teaching kids all about the orchestra.

And in our last two field trips, we've started two new traditions: a family photo - because us moms are so rarely in the pictures, and lunch out - because it's easy and a good bribe for proper field trip behavior.

I'm definitely appreciating Dallas more. Think we may try to go to the Arboretum next while my parents are in town. I love it in the fall!

How We Feel Successful at the End of the School Day

2011-10-06T14:55:00.001-05:00

I plan backwards. Or don't plan at all. Then write it down like I did.

I very well realize that I am in no position to offer advice on successful homeschooling, especially in this, our roughest semester. But I have found a few small things that have made a difference in how I view our day.

One of them is backwards planning. I keep a day planner next to me the entire time we are "schooling." (I like the Well Planned Day) As the kids work on the different things, I write it down. That simple. Turns out we actually do get things done.

Thanks, christygirl, my friend in real life who shared the idea with me, it's made a big difference.

ps, just saw that all Well Planned Day planners are now 35% off with coupon code hedua927.

What makes for a successful day for you?

Field Trip 2: Dallas Children's Theater

2011-10-04T21:45:00.001-05:00

Last week was our field trip to the Dallas Children's Theater. We saw Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day. It was great! We were seated on the front row, where we could see the actors sweat and spit and dance up close. Tickets were $8 a piece and a study guide was available on their website, along with all the state education standards that the play and guide meet.

This show was an hour long performance with no intermission, but it flew by-the kids were captivated the entire time, including my 18 month old. But even if she was fussy, it is a children's theater where I doubt you would get any looks if you had to walk around the back of the theater. In fact, one of my friend's daughter, who is 2, got a little overwhelmed being so close to the stage. So they moved to the back.

One thing I had to clarify to my kids was that it was called a Children's Theater because the shows are produced for children. The actors were all adults, however. They still enjoyed it a lot, but I think they were surprised to see Alexander played by an adult.

This is the first of 6 shows we have tickets for this season. Already I'm looking forward to the next-and hoping Daddy can come with us next time (maybe take a long lunch break?)

Have you taken any field trips yet?

Link Love

2011-09-29T18:03:00.002-05:00

dancing shadows, daddy and daughter.

It's been a while since I've done a link love post, but here are some I've found worthy of passing on.

Made these with the ladies at our first Bible Study this semester.
I love this local girl's craft room-which she made for practically nothing.

How I'm teaching my kids to ride a bike (without holding on to the back of their bikes).
If you homeschool, I recommend reading this post on homeschool blindspots.

Wondering if I could use a free 8x10 canvas print for any Christmas gifts, (shipping is $14.95).

Have a beautiful weekend.

WIP: the Kitchen Window

2011-09-27T08:24:00.000-05:00

So this was a work in progress post: the Kitchen Window,
also from Elizabeth Hartman's Modern Patchwork book.

and then it was such a quick quilt, that I finished it before I could post about it. hate when that happens.
i'm kidding. i love when that happens.

Surprisingly, I think what took the longest was the binding. I decided to try to machine bind it with red pepper quilts' tutorial. The tutorial was great, and she warned it would take a while to get the hang of it. But it also made it seem really simple-basically stitch in the ditch on the top side, with the binding a tad bit longer on the back.
But stitching in the ditch is harder than it seems and pinning perfectly is much harder than it seams.

seams, get it? i love play on words.

I bet when I've made 100 quilts, I'm sure there will be a few things that I remember about each one. The thing I will probably remember about this one (besides the time I spent on the binding with my seam ripper) was this yellow floral fabric by amy butler. It's discontinued but I really wanted it for the quilt. I wanted a stained glass window look and thought the colors were perfect. I found a fat quarter of it on etsy for $7. That was enough for the top. When I tried to order 2 more yards for the bottom, the seller asked $27/yard! So, to Joann's I went to find something else (more of the blue damask). I know it's discontinued and beautiful, but really? $27?

I started cutting the next one, and this one will surely take longer, so maybe next time I really have a work in progress post. Although my quilting remains a work in progress.

What are you working on?

ps, i'm linking this WIP post to Freshly Pieced WIP Wednesday party.

Our Letterboxing Birthday Party

2011-09-21T00:00:00.000-05:00

My Boo is 6! Last Friday we had a letterboxing birthday party for him and his homeschool buddies.

Being able to have weekday birthday parties that free up your weekends is reason #28 that we homeschool. You think I just generated that number, but really, this semester already, I've made a list to remind myself why we homeschool. I'm wondering if anyone can relate.

If you've never letterboxed, letterboxes are boxes hidden in public places, like parks. Clues are left on websites like letterboxing.org or Atlas Quest. The boxes contain a notebook and a rubber stamp. Finders make an imprint of the letterbox's stamp in their personal notebook and leave an impression of their personal stamp on the letterbox's visitor's book-or logbook. Got it?

We started the party with each guest making their own letterbox to take home to hide somewhere. The kids each made their own stamp from foam sheets glued to dry sponges, and two foam stickers stacked on top of each other.

Once everyone had a personal notebook and stamp, we split the partygoers into two groups-the first grade boys and the siblings. Two letterboxes were hidden in our neighborhood park, so one team followed clues for one box, while the other team found the other box. Then, they switched clues and found the other box.

Then the pizza arrived, along with cupcakes! Because what's a party without hot pink icing?

And the very next day Boo told me one of his teeth hurt. I looked at it- and it's about to fall out! First one for him, and it seems like such a milestone! The saying "the days are so long, the years so fast" is too true, isn't it? How is he six? and why am I so tired all the time? Sheesh.

Mini Quilt Monday: A Mini Quilt in a Week

2011-09-19T00:00:00.000-05:00

Monday: Find inspiration on flickr...this seriously makes me want to join a quilting bee. Rumage through stash.

Tuesday: Cut, piece, sew, repeat.

Wednesday: Add backing and quilt.

Thursday: Bind mindlessly while watching a movie you've already seen. (Pulp Fiction is now streaming on Netflix? Sure, let's just watch a few minutes.)

Friday: Find a good hanging stick.

Saturday: Try it out all over our house and still never seem to find it's home...it's in the schoolroom for the now...

What are you working on this week?

ps, i'm linking this up to Fresh Lemons Quilts' Mini Quilt Monday party and TCB's Get Your Craft On.

Modern City Train Table

2011-09-15T10:48:00.000-05:00

For years, our old yard sale train table has only boasted a bare sheet of plywood. This summer I added it to my list of projects.

I considered a subway map-like the London Tube. But decided it was probably a little too modern for what I was thinking.

via

So I searched street maps. I found one, also of London, and printed it as an 8 x 10, then took it to FedEx Office to get it copied as a transparency.

via

Years ago for the boys' room mural, I bought an overhead projector for $10 from a used office supply store-maybe a recycling place?- I found through eBay (refine your eBay search to local shops). Glad to use it again, I projected the city map on the plywood (after using woodfiller and covering with Kilz).

We taped off the roads to paint only the areas around the roads.

And those London stamps? They now show some landmarks.

Field Trip 1: Frisco Fire Town

2011-09-08T08:30:00.000-05:00

I imagine most everyone is back to school by now. We started when our public schools started-about 3 weeks ago.

One goal for our school year is to take more field trips. Dallas has a lot to offer-and I want to take advantage of it. I also have good friends who have good organizational skills and are making most of the trips possible.

Like our trips to Frisco's Safety Fire Town and Ikea.

Frisco's Fire Town is a miniturized town to teach K-5th graders free safety classes. We took the Basic First Aid class on Monday, and the Bicycle Safety class on Friday. Ikea, which is 4 miles away, was Kids Eat Free, so a perfect place for lunch.

our homeschool friends-thanks, Ms. Stacey!

The classes are a power point presentation made by one of the firefighters and are about 20 minutes long. Then they go outside to the Safety Town and ride bikes to practice safe riding skills. Bikes and helmets are provided and they had plenty of bikes with training wheels. And good to know: in the heat we've had, they provided water.

After riding for about 30 minutes, the display fire truck was opened up to climb on and through. As we left, each child was given a goodie bag of a sticker, puzzles, and a class certificate. The kids thoroughly loved visiting.

Then we moved on to Ikea to learn other life lessons. Like how bussing our own tables helps keep costs low. It's really true.

Are you taking any trips around town?

American Girl Doll Jeans Pattern

2011-09-01T12:42:00.000-05:00

Molly's home from the American Girl Doll Hospital after both legs were amputated. She was returned as good as new, then Brother gave her a nice haircut. I am not sending her back though. But a simple wardrobe update, I can do.

I found a great site for printable doll patterns-Liberty Jane. Several are free, but I bought a denim pattern for $3.99. It was very easy to follow with pictures for every step.

And I put the pattern in one of Belle's workboxes this week-so she cut the pattern pieces out for me.

I hope my Belle knows she is loved after an afternoon of sewing little pants. I don't remember if I realized the work (and love) my mom put into my dolls and their clothes, but I see it now.

Okay, 1 More New School Supply

2011-08-30T08:23:00.000-05:00

I ordered a new map for under our plexiglass table top. Last year we had the world map that came with our Geography Songs. This year, we'll concentrate on learning the States.

The One School Supply on our List

2011-08-23T10:57:00.001-05:00

On my list for the year, is a digital camera for my school age kids.

It sounds a bit extravagant, doesn't it? But hand-me-down, partially working ones are perfectly fine for my two big kids. And so much fun for our nature studies-that I am determined to do with more consistency this year.

Did you invest in any new school supplies this year?

How to Make a Quilt Without Actually Quilting

2011-08-18T08:05:00.000-05:00

or how to use a long arm quilter to do the work for you.

For my first quilt, and I'm sure for my next, I had a long arm quilter finish my quilt. It was very simple and affordable and I'm so pleased to have a finished quilt.

Find your local quilter's guild for long arm quilters who take in business. Call for rates and compare. The first person I called lived in my neighborhood, charged $0.03/ sq in but had a 3 month turnaround time. The second quilter lived about 5 miles away, charged $0.02 sq in and finished it in 3 weeks.

Prepare top and back. Finish your top, making sure seams are pressed and loose threads are clipped. For the back, find out how much larger they want your backing to be. My quilter asked that the back be 4 inches larger than the top in each direction.

Choose your pattern. My quilter had a notebook of patterns, or pantographs. I chose a meandering one and really love how simple it is.

Wait. The hard part.

Trim and bind. This is how it looked when I picked it up.

Enjoy.

For those wondering about how affordable it is-here's the breakdown on my quilt:

Quilting was $.02/sq inch. It came to $81. The batting was $16, and provided by the quilter. And there was a $3 thread fee. So worth it.

Have you used a quilting service before?

London Stamp Set

2011-08-16T10:14:00.000-05:00

Just got this cute stamp set from Yellow Owl Workshop for a project I'm finishing up...

So I put the stamps to use for an anniversary card for my parents-who will someday soon get back to the beautiful city.

Happy Anniversary, Mom + Dad!

My Valentine Quilt

2011-08-11T09:05:00.000-05:00

It's done! My New Years Resolution can officially be checked off. It is official when you've blogged about it, right?

Or I could change my goal, and quilt a few quilts this year...yes, that is my new goal.

I love it-and the feeling of having made it yourself...with some help.

I'll post about the help soon.

Any other quilters out there?

July 2011

2011-08-09T09:17:00.000-05:00

Hello August!

While I was away from my blog, I was with my family-on possibly our first family vacation. It was a near perfect getaway for us-out of the Texas heat and up into the Adirondacks.

I'll be back soon with some other projects I worked on this summer.

It's good to be back.

How was your summer?

Summer Break

2011-06-30T13:53:00.001-05:00

We just started our summer to-do list, and checked one off today by stopping for some shaved ice. While we're out getting these things done, I'll be taking a little break from blogging for the month of July. Then I'll be back with a few projects I hope to work on.

Do you have a summer list? What's on yours? Enjoy your summer!

Father's Day photos of the kids in the woods

2011-06-15T13:32:00.002-05:00

I am not a photographer and I don't know what I'm doing. I wish I was and did.

But I am really thankful for a smart camera and cute kids.

I have a few kids, so this post is picture heavy.

But it's really for the Dad's in our lives, anyway.

Hope everyone else has a wonderful day celebrating the men in their lives this weekend.

Happy Father's Day, Opa, Giddo, and Daddy!

Happy Monday + 2 Links

2011-06-13T14:50:00.001-05:00

Happy Monday. I hope it is a great new week for you and that you are staying cool. We are inside, doing a little painting. and a little pop-corn eating.

Some friends and I are going through the Warrior Prayers ebook for the 21 Days of Prayers for Our Sons. If you have boys, I recommend praying through it!

In my last mailing from Compassion, I noticed that they are publishing a free magazine for kids.

If you already sponsor a Compassion child it is free,

and will come as an insert in the regular Compassion magazine, just call (800) 336-7676 to add it.

If you don't already sponsor a Compassion child, would you consider it?

You will not regret it.

I'm really hoping for a cool morning this week to take the kids into the woods for a Father's Day photo-shoot...

What are you up to this week?

Our Custom Father's Day Card Idea + How we celebrate Mother's/Father's Day

2011-06-06T16:43:00.001-05:00

above: as a frame-able print

below: as a greeting card

I don't think either one of us have actually said, "well, you're not my _______(father, mother)."

But the first few years, it really seemed like we were owed the world

for the sleepless nights and thankless days.

Our expectations were high and disappointments were inevitable.

I'm not sure when we let it go, but I'm so glad we did. It's not that we don't do anything for each other, but the Days are much more about encouraging the kids to honor us.

This year, Father's Day is most likely going to look like a special breakfast, and lots of hugs and kisses and Happy Father's Day wishes from the kids. We'll also give him these cards -one from each of the kids, with three things they love about their Dad. And hopefully a good photo of all four kids for his desk at work. Something like this one...minus the letters.

If you'd like to use ours as a template to print card or print your own, I'd be happy to email it to you!

How do you celebrate the Days?

I'm linking this up to Today's Creative Blog.

Valentine Sugar Pop Quilt Progress

2011-05-25T20:30:00.000-05:00

This week I pieced the 42 squares together. Overall, it was a very satisfying feeling. But so tricky-even though this pattern was labeled "For the confident beginner." I read that this week and it made me laugh. I'm way too confident for a beginner, and my corners show it.

I plan to have someone local quilt it with a long arm machine. This is me being realistic.

When I actually "quilt" something, I'll start with a potholder, I think.

Look at that corner (the one on the right side). The quilters are gonna laugh, aren't they?

Anyone have any experience with quilting services? Any advice?

Are you a successful homeschooler?

2011-05-24T09:55:00.002-05:00

One of the best parts of being part of a homeschool community is the time I get with all the other homeschooling moms. We could (and do) talk for hours about curriculum, testing, reading levels, unopened science kits, used book fairs and speed drills.

But if I'm completely honest, when I listen to other moms talk about the most recent project done by their 8 year old, I'm secretly comparing my child's knowledge and ability in that area. I'm constantly trying to determine where my children fit, or excel or lack compared to other students.

It's so easy to focus on what we're not doing or where I think my child is "behind" where they might be in a formal school. And enjoy all the guilt that comes with that train of thought.

With a school year soon coming to a close, my mind is moving on to how much better we will be next school year, when we start using _______ book, or just start fresh. But that's not how I want to finish the year.

It was not a failure.

In fact, we saw a lot of success.

I want to claim each success, celebrate them. Not for me, but for my kids -who grow most often in spite of me-but a lot of times, also because of me.

Keeping Geography Songs going in the car led us to learn every song in under a year. My 4 year old can tell you what countries are in Equitorial Africa. I love that. (and need to video it)
Boo loves to read--he reads road signs, movies on our netflix queue, and bedtime stories to his siblings. I tell him, "Stop reading!" And he says, "I can't, Mom!"
Belle is thisclose to finishing math book-which is just about on-time.
She and I have also found a time to read together-while Daddy reads to the boys at bedtime, she and I sneak off and I read to her. This is sacred time between us-time we despiritely need, I believe for our relationship both now and later.
Big Boy and I also enjoy couch time, and are well into 100 Easy Lessons. He loves and needs this one on one time. And so do I.

Here's my challenge for anyone who home-schools: notice your successes. name them, write them down (maybe in your yearbook?), throw a party, call a friend. it's up to you. But do share them-with other moms and your kids-it is their success, too.

And of course, tell me! I'd love to hear what's worked for you!

Dyeing Paper

2011-05-14T09:31:00.000-05:00

We're always looking for some fun ideas to keep us busy. All this month, Aimee at HomeSpun Threads is hosting a Summer Soiree-31 Days of Indoor Ideas to ready us for the heat of the summer.

A Craft Camp for Kids, if you will.

Today, I'm sharing our tissue paper dyeing fun! We had everything on hand, and the hardest part was waiting for them to dry. Stop by and check out all the cool ideas.

What do you make with tissue paper?

More Room on the Night Table

2011-05-12T08:33:00.000-05:00

When you don't have a lamp on your table, you can fit a lot more books.

Or cups. Or toys.

Or nothing at all, if you can do that.

I've always loved Pottery Barn's wall sconces, but never could justify the price tag.

So when I saw the Nester's link to Copy Cat Chic's affordable version-I ordered 2.

pottery barn adjustable arc lamp - $139

lakeside collection adjustable wall lamp - $19.95

and now I have more room for my books.

Thrifting for Springtime Skirts

2011-05-04T13:08:00.002-05:00

Each spring I find myself longing for a few free hours to spend going through the racks of my thrift store on a skirt hunt. I went a few weeks ago and came home with three new looks for under $10.

above: skirt: Anthropology via thrift, $2.99, jeans: target, $4, shirt: kohl's from years ago,

scarf: gift from India

above, skirt: Harolds, thrifted $2.99, tank: Old Navy $2, cardigan: Express via eBay $.99

above, skirt: Old Navy, thrifted $2.99, shirt: Kohl's, denim jacket: Old Navy, both from years ago

Thank you, Belle for taking my pictures this week!

I'm sure she thinks her mama is crazy, but at least I'm out of my pajamas-which is more than I can say for her baby brother and sister...

Found any good deals lately?

All You Get is 24 Hours

2011-05-02T10:16:00.000-05:00

I ran the other day. Then I signed up for a half marathon. So, I probably should run again.

It's been so long since I've run. Too long to tell you, but I will say that it has been the longest period I have not run in my entire adult life. I call myself a runner, and I love my running group. But I also love sleep. And call myself a sleeper.

"I am a mother, and my time is not my own," I tell my group.

But it is spring, a time for new beginnings. So here goes a new running season.

Now I want to keep the momentum and best use my running time. Have you noticed that one good decision leads to another? It's true. The day I ran, I ate less ice cream. I didn't not eat ice cream, but I ate less. And I cleaned my shower. Just because I felt like I was on a roll.

Time is the one resource we are each given equally.

Since running uses precious time, I want to make it count the most. In the past, I've watched movies from the treadmill (on my weekday runs). But this week, I chose to watch a DVD of a Beth Moore message. And I've got some more messages that I can watch or listen to next week-including 24 Hours is All You Get: Ways to Wisely Use Your Day and podcasts of Sono Harris's messages for weary moms.

I really want my miles to go farther.

How to you make your time go farther while your kids are still little?

Make a Coloring Book With Your Photos

2011-04-28T11:23:00.000-05:00

Almost every day, I put a coloring page in the boys' workboxes. How fun would it be for them to find a coloring page of someone they love? (in this case, their doggy cousin-my brother's pup, Bentley)

I came across an old tutorial from fototiller for turning your photos into coloring pages in 3 photoshop steps. Don't have photoshop? Try their Corel Paint Shop Pro pdf tutorial.

Do you use workboxes? What are some staple fun items you use?

Spice Jar Favors

2011-04-13T20:19:00.000-05:00

Our Life Group learned of a couple who for a long time thought they couldn't afford a wedding. So we decided to give them one. I took over the favors-because that's what I like to do: take over things and make stuff. :)

The bride works for Saltgrass Steakhouse here in Dallas.

The wedding will also be catered by Saltgrass, so I figured their steak seasoning would make a perfectly fine favor.

What do you think? Think the bride will agree?

I ordered the labels here and the bottles here.

The seasoning I got right from Saltgrass, where it truly pays to know people.

Sunday's the big day! What are your weekend plans?

Christ Centered Easter Crafts

2011-04-12T08:15:00.001-05:00

Have you noticed all the eggs? I honestly don't know how the egg and bunny tradition started, but I found some cool true Easter crafts and thought I'd share:

Tomb and Garden Rock Garden at Impress Your Kids

Empty Tomb Resurrection Rolls at tsj photogrpahy

Free Easter Lapbook link via Molding Minds Homeschool

Paint Chip Easter Garland at Modern Parents Messy Kids--yes, i know, totally not a Christ-centered craft-it's even an egg craft, but i loved it.

Are you making anything special for Easter?

Block Prints with Soap

2011-04-05T07:51:00.001-05:00

Block prints are a really cool way to teach positive and negative images and relief. And using soap makes for a kid-friendly and cheap art project.

I'm blogging over at Homegrown Mom today, with an easy soap block tutorial-please stop by. If you've never read Homegrown Mom, here are a few of my favorite posts:

Hope you're having a beautiful week!

Telephone Wire Ring Giveaway

2011-03-31T08:03:00.001-05:00

Baby Girl fell asleep on the way home from church last week. And she was OUT. Which meant I got to hold her for a while why she was still. I get to hold her all the time, but most of the time she is a big wiggle worm.

Our church has a Hope Store where I buy our fair-trade coffee now. They also sell some handmade items from developing countries. While I was in line with my coffee, I saw these rings. I bought myself one, then after the service I went back to buy you one, too. Well, one of you anyway. I wish I could send you all one-they are so cool.

Note: they are kind of big. I wear mine on my pointer finger or thumb.

Just leave a comment by Wednesday, April 6th. I'll chose a random winner then. Thanks for being
sweet!

Giveaway closed. Congrats #13, Catie!

Cardboard Dollhouse Furniture Instructions

2011-03-29T17:29:00.000-05:00

We just got the April issue of Family Fun. Do you guys get Family Fun? It's loaded with fun stuff to make with your kids. Like the doll house with furniture in this month's issue.

source

My kids poured over the pages of furniture instructions, which are also available as pdf's online.

Do you and your kids subscribe to any magazines? Which ones?

4 Sewing Gifts I Had to Buy Myself This Year

2011-03-22T07:33:00.001-05:00

Actually, it happened quite innocently. This past Christmas my family decided to make it easier on everyone, and we each agreed to each buy ourselves a $60 gift. We were to buy it, wrap it and put it away to open with each other at Christmas. Really, it was cool to see what each other picked out for themselves when given the freedom.

Like my brother-- who bought himself an axe. An axe. I really didn't see that coming.

Well, on my 40 Before 40 list (formerly 30 Before 30) is: Make a Quilt.

I thought I should get on that, and I bought myself The Practical Guide to Modern Patchwork and a Moda Jelly Roll (Sugar Pop). If you're not familiar with fabric, a jelly roll is a roll of fabric strips precut for you. That was $64 since I went to a swanky boutique downtown. That was Gift 1 & Gift 2, if you are keeping count.

I picked out one of the quilt patterns in the book and started working. Thankfully, I already had a rotary and small self healing mat. But half way into my quilt, I thought how much easier and fun this project would be with the right tools.

So this month, I bought myself 2 more presents. I'm welcome.

A larger self healing cutting mat and a 10 inch acrylic template. Gift 3 & Gift 4. I heart them. And now I am excited about finishing my quilt.

Here you can see the Sugar Pop collection and 18 squares of the quilt.

By the way, if you're wondering how I find time to quilt-- because that's what I always wonder when I visit prolific quilters' blogs -- I'll let you in on my secret: I set a mini goal. The quilt I am working on is full-size and made up of 48 squares. I told myself, "Self, just make 1 square a day." Even on really busy days, I can sneak upstairs after bedtime and get one done. And most days, 2 is doable. The progress is contagious.

Have you bought any tools that make your goals easier this year?

Duck Tape Wallets

2011-03-14T10:42:00.001-05:00

We were invited to a birthday play-date for a homeschool buddy who turned 8 last weekend.

His mother said no gifts, just come.

I totally get that, and when we do friend birthday parties, I say the same thing. But it still feels kind of lame to show up empty handed. Since this was one of Belle's friends, I thought she could bring him something she had made.

So we made him a duct tape wallet and then made a couple more.

We used Duck Tape Brand tape that we picked up from Target.

There are loads of tutorials out there. But we used Crafts by Amanda's, which was made by kids and had plenty of pictures.

What do you do when the invitation says, "No gifts, please"?

I'm linking up to TCB's Get Your Craft On-thanks for hosting, Kim!

How I Keep My Kids Still

2011-03-11T07:49:00.001-06:00

Baby has had one ear infection after another, on top of another. Tubes are in her near future. All that means is we've had a few doctor's appointments lately.

And what I don't like about doctor's appointments is taking the other, healthy, kids along, where

they touch germ-y things and pick up new illnesses that bring us back to the doctors.

So I tell them, "Don't touch ANYTHING."

except our drawing bag.

It's the second bag I made a few weeks ago. It's filled with sketch pads, step-by-step drawing books, colored pencils and crayons. I keep it in the car, for whenever we need to go somewhere and be still and not touch anything. You know those errands.

Remember the other bag we keep in the car? What do you keep in your car?

And what do you do to keep your kids still?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
While you're here, can I tell you about my friend Rachel? She has been a writer all her life and is now writing at Every Day's Best where she talks about God's big shoulders, His trustworthiness, hope and forgiveness. Because of a real personal loss, she knows what she is talking about. She's hosting a give away today and also guest posting at (in)courage.me today, so please stop by. That is all. Thanks!

Make A Homeschool Yearbook

2011-03-08T07:18:00.000-06:00

The idea for me came from our paper mache pyramids that we made a few weeks ago. They're pretty cool, but they take up a lot of space in our school room. And we're kind of done with them.

So now what?

I don't want to just throw away Belle's project, but maybe I do. But I need to document it first. And taking a photo of it probably isn't enough. It will only be lost in the sea of photos on my hard drive.

But if we had a yearbook, I could document all of our projects in a small space.

I'll also include a few other things for posterity's sake:

field trips

samples of best journal entry, work
science experiments

a list of curriculum we used

our schedule or what a typical day looks like

co-op friends, neighborhood friends

piano pieces learned

soccer team photos

At this point, it's still an idea. And the school year isn't over, so that's okay. But I plan to use something like Shutterfly to make a photo book that also allows text.

Do you keep a homeschool or family yearbook? What else should I include?

New Craigslist Feature

2011-03-03T08:59:00.001-06:00

Okay, this may be old news, but I've never noticed it on Craigslist before...and I'm on the list a lot.

Now instead of having to click on each link to view any images, you can see a thumbnail of each listing when you click on "show images":

and viola:

Has that feature been out for 10 years? probably. Don't tell me if it has--it made my day, so I thought I'd share it.

Comment Challenge: What was the last thing you sold or bought on Craigslist? Did you get a deal?

Simple Draw-string Bag for Toys

2011-03-01T15:18:00.001-06:00

On my to-do list last week was to make two tote bags. One I will post later, but one I will share now.

The kids got these really cool magnet toys -Magformers- for Christmas. And they really are cool. But there are about eleventy hundred of them. So, they needed a draw string bag to contain themselves. Since the kids build things with the magnets, I chose this tool print from Robert Kauffman fabrics, via Hawthorne Threads-my favorite online fabric store.

It's a very simple drawstring bag, with doubled up hemp twine as the thread, because I have tons of it.

Like the Magformers, the bag gets a lot of use.

On this weeks to-do list:

sell the headboard,

host a game night with 4 of our neighbors

and maybe clean the house. maybe.

How's your week going? What's on your list?

Teaching Astronomy That Kids Won't Forget

2011-02-23T14:10:00.004-06:00

Oh, the constellations have never been more fun or easy to remember. Until studying them with the kids, I think I could identify the Big Dipper, and that was about it.

After reading some great books on finding the constellations and understanding how important they were for navigation, we had to make our own star maps. We used black mounting board and white embroidery floss.

1. The mounting boards (regularly $3.99 at HobLob for a 16"x20" sheet, but are 50% off this week), I cut in two boards in half to make 4 maps (16" x 10").

2. Using google images, Belle and I found and printed constellation charts. Painters tape held them in place so they worked as our templates. We then tried an upholstery needle and an embroidery needle to see what worked best to poke holes where our stars were.

3. Then we were ready to take away the template, and thread our maps.

4. Belle was really good at the threading. She made the Lion and the Big Dipper/Little Dipper. I made Orion and the Herdsman.

Two books we really liked:

Find the Constellations by H. A. Rey (of Curious George fame).

The Big Dipper by Franklin M. Branley

So, what do you think? Cool right?

Link Love

2011-02-18T10:36:00.000-06:00

via

I think Belle might add Homemade Glitter to our must have art supplies.

Simple Homeschool has a fun series, A Homeschool Day in the Life of...I'm not sure how to link to the entire series, but from that post you can find others.

Download a free audiobook copy of Russell D. Moore’s Adopted for Life. Then we can discuss it.

Steady Mom shared 5 tips for gentle, positive discipline. I've decided I'm going to implement #1 more. And #5. And probably #'s 2-4, too.

CrafterMinds shares 5 Ways to Increase Pageview for craft bloggers. I'm really late on things, so if you can explain StumbleUpon to me, I'd be very grateful. I signed up. Now what?

Do you share links that you love? I'd love to see them. Leave a link in the comments, and I promise I'll check them out. promise.

happy friday!

9 Must-Have Art Supplies for Crafty Children

2011-02-15T09:25:00.001-06:00

I think art is the most consistent subject we we do around the Pajama Mama house. Anyone else like that? We go through a lot of art supplies. Here are what we consider our must-haves.

1. Paper I buy cheap printer paper just for the kids, as well as good art paper-like Strathmore 300 series-the yellow pads at Michael's go on sale a lot. But don't forget junk mail, magazines, catalogs.

2. Paint, markers, pencils. What can I say about them? They're worth the time and mess. Buy washables when you can.

3. Adhesives Liquid glue, glue sticks (for making stamps), hot glue (for our gift bookmarks and flower hair clips), glue dots...tape, painters tape, masking tape, packing tape...good grief.

4. Felt We love felt projects-like the iPhone covers and cameras. Felt is great for simple sewing projects with kids'-no raveling! This is what I give Belle to practice her sewing-she's made phone cases, eyeglass cases, doll clothes-it's inexpensive and very easy to use large stitches on.

5. Toilet Paper Rolls I keep these and tissue boxes, and any other materials that you would ordinarily recycle to toss. See this unbelievable Toilet Paper Brick House, try keeping Memory Jars, and mix science into art with a Tissue Box Marshmallow Catapult.

6. Natural Elements Sticks, stones, seeds, beans, leaves, shells. Remember our rustic stick stars? Craft has an entire archive of crafting with nature-love this Stick Weaving. Linda of Natural Suburbia gives a great tutorial on how to weave with sticks.

7. Beads Larger beads-or cereal oh's are great for improving small kids' fine motor skills. But Belle and I love using beads for fun uses-like postcards.

8. Food I don't think I've met a child who does not love to cook and create with food. Damaris and Kitchen Corners has some really cool little foodie ideas-like Nutella Play Dough and Stained Glass Jello.

9. Inspiration We have a collection of art idea books-and check out others from the library regularly. I buy every Usborne Art book I find at used bookstores -so worth the money.

10. What would you add?

I'm linking this up to Top Ten Tuesday at Oh, Amanda's.

All You Need is 5 Pieces of Paper

2011-02-12T11:04:00.000-06:00

to make this awesome paper bouquet card for your valentine.

Hope your weekend is super sweet.

The Girls' Paper Beads

2011-02-08T16:47:00.001-06:00

belle and her friend from across the street made these the other day. i think on the fourth snow day.

i gave them the spring boden catalog. I love boden, but didn't see anything in the most recent catalog. now, the fall issue- I'm still holding on to for when a few things go on clearance...

they ripped out all the pretty pictures and cut isosceles triangles out of them. then using a flour/water mix (since we were out of liquid glue), they painted glue on the triangles, and rolled them around toothpicks and thin paint brush ends-starting at the base and rolling to the point.

they gently slid them off and let them dry.

they made all sorts of sizes, but if you are pretty exact in your size and use a diamond glaze after they've dried, the beads can have another, pulled together look.

ok, i just realized one of those beads looks more like something someone might smoke than it does a long white and brown bead. but they didn't notice, and neither did i at the time. oh well.

what did you do on your snow days? no snow days? ok, what 'd you do last week?

2011 Book & Movie List

2011-02-04T14:00:00.011-06:00

I loved keeping track of what I read and saw last year. It was a first for me, but I'm sure I will keep it going-and now I have a number to beat (last years books numbered 39)...

Books I've read:

By the River Piedro, I Sat Down and Wept
What the Dog Saw
One Thousand Gifts
Lumber Camp Library
Childwise
Sex God
Adopted for Life
Her Mother's Hope
31 DBBB
Simple Blogging
Misty of Chincateague
Shades of Blue
The Mission of Motherhood
Her Daughter's Dream
Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close
The Little Riders
The Twenty-One Balloons
Maximize Your Mornings (free ebook)
The Invisible Woman
Eating Animals
Leaving
I'll Walk Alone
Little House on the Prairie
The Shadow of Your Smile
Ender's Game
On the Banks of Plum Creek
Journey to Jo'burg
The Prodigal God
Farmer Boy
Learning
My Side of the Mountain
Hind's Feet on High Places
The Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe
Love Wins
Make Over
Something Borrowed
The Ballet Shoes
The Charlotte Mason Companion
And the Shofar Blew
Longing

Movies I've seen:

Scott Pilgrim vs. the World
Going the Distance
Frankie & Johnny
Breaking Upwards
Shutter Island
True Grit
High Ball
Roman de Gare
Easy Rider
City Island
The Secret in Their Eyes
The Social Network
Let the Right One In
Winter's Bone
Jack Goes Boating
The Kids Are Alright
Cyrus
Greenberg
High Noon
Summertime
The Fighter
Due Date
Animal Kingdom
Salt
Get Low
The King's Speech
Four Lions
Falling Up
Looking for Eric
Easy A
The Diary of a Mad Black Woman
Black Swan
Bridesmaids
Blue Valentine
Somewhere
A Scanner Darkly
Looking for Eric
It's Kind of A Funny Story
Super 8
According to Greta
No Strings Attached
Killers
High School Musical-yes. i did.
Love and Other Drugs
When in Rome
The Switch
The Company Men
Fat Sick and Nearly Dead
Happythankyoumoreplease
Taken
Hawaii, Oslo
Intacto
Iron Man 2
Tangled
The Adjustment Bureau
Of Gods and Men
The Princess Bride
The Wizard of Oz
Last Night
Biutiful
Everything Must Go
X-Men: First Class
Chopper
Zodiac
Road to Perdition
The Trip
State of Play
Pulling John
Hot Tub Time Machine
Horrible Bosses
Submarine
Our Idiot Brother
Crazy Stupid Love
Buck
The Namesake

Any recommendations?

DIY Valentines

2011-02-01T22:05:00.000-06:00

Today was a snow day. Even though snow hardly affects our ability to do school, I usually try to let the kids experience the idea of a snow day. I loved those days as a kid- waking up, peeking out the window shade to white and instantly knowing-NO SCHOOL! I want my kids to remember that feeling too.

So on my snow day, besides finishing three loads of laundry, I played at the sewing machine.

The valentine envelope was very simple. I cut two squares in scrap fabrics-I think mine were something like 9"x 9". I also cut another 9x9 square of fusible webbing, which I ironed onto the back of the outer square. Maybe it would have been better to fuse it to the back of the inside layer, so it wouldn't have looked as wrinkled...I don't know.

Sew right sides together, trim, turn inside out, press, stitch again around the border. Blah, blah, blah. You know how. I hand-stitched where the three side come together. But not until after I added a stamp and stitched My Love on the front.

And can you see the scallops on the card? That was the-you guessed it- 'scallop' stitch on my Brother machine sewn onto white card-stock. I love how it turned out. Even if you didn't have time to make the envelopes-the cards are a simple, quick project. I think I'll use a few minutes of tomorrow's snow day to make a few more.

Hope you're staying warm, wherever you are!

Links to Click

2011-01-28T09:23:00.000-06:00

I'm saving Sarah's idea for a DIY credenza/buffet for when our dining room is no longer a schoolroom, or we no longer have little hands who like to rip books. the day may never come, but i really like this project. i also love her gallery wall behind it.

I may have to order some of these magnets for my brother, the photographer, for all the photoshop tutorials he's given me. Thank you, Jon.

I love the ticking with gold triangles on this cosmetic purse. So cute. I never would have paired the two, but I will have to think of a project to put the two together-and the tassel!

Appetite for Reduction may be the next cookbook I invest in. Although it isn't gluten-free, it is vegan and low-fat. Maybe it will help me get those stupid holiday pounds off without resorting to diet processed foods. never again.

This tweet is a freebie-no click needed, but I had to pass it on:

@JohnPiper To manage a life of pain, as a believer in Jesus, remember: This is all the hell you will ever have to bear.

Have a beautiful weekend.

Healthy Kids Meals

2011-01-26T07:55:00.000-06:00

We've been eating, for the most part, gluten-, dairy- and sugar-free since the beginning of the year. So, like 3 weeks. But it feels really good to be eating so healthy-that I really think it's going to stick.

The kids are doing great on it, too. Except for missing their chocolate milk (which we added back last week buying Horizons Organic Chocolate Milk), they haven't seemed to notice. And they love the healthy lunch chart. They now know they need to eat from each category, and because they are fixing their own lunch, it sometimes looks like a hodge-podge of a meal-like rice noodles, tomato, pear and raw almond butter. But it's balanced and healthy and they made it themselves so they eat it all. And I'm happy.

Most days, we've settled into a lunch routine...Belle loves Nori rolls with brown sticky rice, carrots, tomatoes and avacado. We've had a sushi roller for years. I'm so glad she's getting use out of it.

Boo fixes rice cakes with peanut butter and raisins-and usually a tomato.

We're still looking for good, filling snacks though...and ones that are good to grab and go. Any ideas?

Is God Really Good?

2011-01-23T15:41:00.003-06:00

At some point in any God-believing person's life, the question exists. Sometimes it is barely whispered, or only a fleeting thought. Other times, it is a gnawing overwhelming silence.

I'm reading One Thousand Gifts and have found hope for the fear that surrounds the unanswered question. Ann Voskamp has lived through the question after several tragedies and found the answer in the ordinary: gratitude. She explains, "It is impossible to give thanks, and simultaneously feel fear."

Yesterday, at fifty pages into her story, I challenged myself to write down 1000 things to give thanks for. Dressing for church this morning, as a I slipped my hand into a coat I rarely wear, I found a note of a quote I must have wanted to keep. I collect them, you know. Yet, this one, I forgot.

"We walk by humble miracles everyday. They give evidence that God is good."

Ann's book is the first item on my beginning list. The note is the second.

These moments from our simple Saturday evening at home are also on my list.
My littles masked in lemon and mint clay.

I hope your weekend was sweet and full of humble miracles that went noticed. Have you started reading Ann's book?

Storage for the Schoolroom

2011-01-18T21:27:00.000-06:00

We had a bin system for the first half of the year. My oldest three kids each had a plastic bin that held their schoolbooks. The three bins fit perfectly under a bench we had temporarily moved into that room. This worked really well for a while.

Then Baby started getting mobile.

And her greatest pleasure each day was getting into those bins and ripping out whatever pages she could.

I thought about getting the Ikea Expedit bookshelves and those baskets that fit perfectly in the squares. But Baby might figure out that those baskets can come out and she just may figure out how to get them out...so I thought a credenza or dresser of some sort would work better, and possibly cheaper.

Last week I found this dresser (Mainline by Hooker) on craigslist and my father in law picked it up for me on Monday. My father in law is my craigslist-partner-in-crime. Not only does he have a pick-up, he offers half of whatever the asking. And has no qualms doing so.

He goes with me every craigslist purchase.

every one.

For $75, we got this dresser with a matching headboard

(full-size if you're interested-it's going back on CL).

On the right side, behind the sliding doors, are 4 drawers about the same size as our old bins-perfect.

DIY Quick Baby Shower Gift: Back Up Bag

2011-01-17T08:20:00.002-06:00

Over the weekend I gave a back-up-bag to a friend who's expecting a baby girl next month.

I told her to put this in her car and forget about it. Until the day when the diaper bag is out of diapers and she is out somewhere and really needs one. and a spare outfit. you know those days.

what I used: (I included a must-have pacifier clip, too)

all ready to go:

It's not much, but that's the point.

Do you keep a back up bag for anything?

This post is linked to TCB's Get Your Craft On.

Rewards Cards Update

2011-01-13T12:40:00.001-06:00

Made a little pouch for our reward cards after I laminated them last weekend. So far this week, the kids have done my hair, written on the chalk board, taken a picture and skipped around the house after working hard on an assignment. ok. i wouldn't say they were working hard. but they might. and the rewards are free, so i can give them freely.

anyone else start using them? (i think they're still in Ana's shop)

Links to Click

2011-01-10T12:47:00.004-06:00

Or maybe it's only me. I thought I came to the conclusion that I did not, in fact, have an addictive personality. Although of late, I've taken to a few obsessions. I think new years do that to me.

I need new thoughts around my home. These printables are perfect.
I have been on hypothyroidism medication since the '80's. Recently I learned of a possible reason: a gluten sensitivity (not gluten allergy). I'm planning to eliminate gluten (and while I'm at it, dairy and sugar) for a trial period...I've read The Whole Life Nutrition Cookbook (more than a cookbook) cover to cover.
I love this FREE chart to help kids make their own healthy, balanced lunch so much, I laminated it.
One Thankful Mom has started a Rocking Mama Challenge -to rock your child for 15 minutes a day for 28 days. I dare you to try it.

Ok, tell me I'm not the only one with runaway enthusiasms-- what are you up to?

DIY:: Winter Crafting with Kids

2011-01-05T00:00:00.004-06:00

Confession: we haven't opened a school book since the holidays. well, maybe a math book or two, but we have yet to sit at the school table and get serious.

and honestly, I'm okay with that. soccer hasn't started back up. we took a few weeks off of piano lessons and our coop semester begins next month. so I'm savoring the down time and doing fun things we never seem to have time for in a school day-like treasure hunts and borax snowflakes.

Today, I'm crafting over at A Bushel and A Peck. If you've got some antsy kids and a few supplies from round the house, stop over!

2011

2010-12-31T08:42:00.000-06:00

May the Lord bless you
and protect you.

May the Lord smile on you

and be gracious to you.

May the Lord show you his favor

and give you his peace.’

Numbers 6:24-26 NLT

photo

Handmade Holidays: Perfect Last Minute Gift for Moms

2010-12-19T15:02:00.001-06:00

Or for yourself...you know, a "merry christmas to me" thing.

For months now-- ok, really since school started, I have struggled getting my older kids to stay on task from one assignment to the next...they'd want a break, or a glass of juice, or second breakfast, or ...and it would only be 9 o'clock. Now, if the kids were in school, I believe they would have no trouble sticking with their work...but then again, I can remember even in school getting to pick something from the treasure box after a week of good "on-task" behavior. Maybe what my kids could use is a little reward or encouragement to stay on top of their work...

So I asked my friend, Ana Degenaar to help me, and by "help" I mean, spend way too much time making me the coolest set of rewards cards I've ever seen. They are so great! There are 38 rewards worth 1, 5, or 10 minutes-depending on the value of the deed or work they were caught doing-and range from a piggy ride to playing a board game with mom.

And now that I have mine, Ana has the cards in a pdf file in her shop, so they can be yours-to keep or give...and since it's a file you print, you can give a set to every mother you know!

And they will thank you.

What mom of small kids wouldn't love a set?

Handmade Holidays: Easy Gift for Kids to Make

2010-12-17T08:02:00.003-06:00

Christmas button bookmarks

How simple are these? And the kids loved making them-especially

knowing they were for some very special people!

I bought the ribbons/buttons from Oriental Trading several weeks ago,

but I've seen some Christmas ribbon in Target's dollar spot, too-

if you can gather some buttons, they make great last minute gifts!

Are you making any gifts with your kids?

One Line A Day

2010-12-15T14:42:00.000-06:00

I think I can handle that.

Mr. Smarty has been the journaler in our family. At least he's the one who's been most consistent with it over the years. In 2009, he journaled every single day. And for the past several years he's maintained a work-out log, documenting each run, cycle or swim. And I love that he's kept those. Really. I am so thankful that he has written down simple, everyday moments that in time will be treasured details of what our life was like.

But then I saw this book. And wondered why I always thought he had to be the one to record our life. Did I think my vantage wasn't worth writing down? (if that is the case, why do I blog?) Do I think I wouldn't follow through or stick with it? (maybe...likely)

photo

I still want his side documented, too. I just want to give this a try. How fun and telling (and maybe even sad at times) it will be to look back in 5 years to read one line a day?

I think this will help me be more deliberate in adding to the journals I keep for the kids, too.

Do you journal or keep any sort of life log? Any tips for being consistent?

A Cookie Challenge:: Dark Chocolate & Mint Chip

2010-12-13T10:59:00.000-06:00

Do you know Damaris? If you don't, you need to go meet her. She's best known for her beautiful blog, Kitchen Corners-where she makes cooking for her family an art form. This month at KC she offered a cookie challenge -bake them, give them, then blog about them...cookies, that is.

And the same week my mom flew in and what did she have in her suitcase just for me? A bag of Nestle's Dark Chocolate Chip and Mint Chips-with a recipe on the back just waiting to be made.

1 cup butter, softened

3/4 cup white sugar

3/4 cup brown sugar

2 eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

2 cups all-purpose flour

2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

3/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 10 ounce bag of mint or mint+chocolate chips (about 1 1/2 cups)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla.

Combine the flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt. Stir into butter mixture until well blended.

Mix in the chips. Drop by a rounded tablespoon onto an ungreased baking sheet.

Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or just until set. Cool on pan for about 2 minutes then cool completely on a wire rack.

Last week, our local Saltgrass Steakhouse (75 & Midpark, Dallas) let our Life Group wait tables with them and donated 100% of their tips to our Angel Tree families! An entire night's pay in the month of December is a precious thing to a waiter-and they gave it all! So, it was our pleasure to bring them some goodies this week to show them how much we appreciated their sacrifice!

I'm definitely not a foodie, but this was fun-and made even more fun by giving them away...ok, ok, we saved a few for ourselves, but you know...

Are you baking any gifts this year?

Need ideas? Check out all the cookies at Kitchen Corners.

DIY Sweater Stocking

2010-12-07T16:23:00.003-06:00

I looked at my armless sweater and

realized I had enough for a stocking...

Waste not, want not...

Martha has a template, but I just used one of my kids' stockings as a pattern.

Thanks for all your wonderful handmade ideas -

I wish my sweater had 15 arms-I'd send you each a cozy mason jar.

Sparrow was the random generated winner-congrats!

Oh, and if you came out to Saltgrass last night-

thank you-it was a HUGE success!!!

We raised $2400 in a few hours for our sweet Angel Tree families!

Handmade Holidays: Cheap and Easy and a Giveaway!

2010-12-02T19:26:00.001-06:00

DIY Mason Jar Cozy

Last year's snack mix was a hit with my great-aunt. By January, she asked me to send more! But the mason jar cozy warms the gift a little, doesn't it?

The sweater I found for $5? I cut off an arm and used hem tape to clean up the bottom edge and keep it from fraying. (Hem tape is an iron-on tape used to...uh, hem things)

And because it's Christmas, and the sweater had two arms, I'd love to send you

a cozy mason jar filled with yummy snack mix!

Tell me about a handmade gift you're giving or gave or gotten,
and I'll choose one comment on Monday, December 6th.

December Thrifting

2010-12-01T16:25:00.000-06:00

We visited the thrift store today sometime between language arts and science and found a few things. I love this vintage Christmas tray ($2.43). And I can think of a 459 things I can put in this milk glass cup ($2.42):

and this white sweater ($4.99) is why I stopped in. I needed it for

a Handmade Holidays gift-that I'll share soon!

Have you found any thrifty deals for Handmade Holiday gifts? Leave me a link in the comments!

Christmas Card Photo Out-takes

2010-11-23T10:51:00.001-06:00

It seems as if my plans to get things done early so I wouldn't be stressed during the holiday season is just becoming a way for me get stressed earlier.

Last week, I made the girls a jumper and skirt for our Christmas pictures. I love the squirrel cordoroy print from Joann's and Simplicity pattern 9854-that I'm sure I will be using again.

So on Saturday's agenda was our family photo shoot. I always am tempted to show all our out-takes and attempts to get the one kind of acceptable picture we'll use. If last years attempt was tough with 3 kids, this years photo-now with 4, should have been no surprise.

Happy Holidays!

The Steam Mop that Swagbucks Bought...

2010-11-15T00:00:00.002-06:00

The little one is almost crawling...well technically she is army crawling. And any day now it will be full-force. And my floors are gross.

So thanks to my Swagbucks, that I've gradually traded in for $5 Amazon gift cards, I ordered the Eureka Enviro Steam Mop.

So excited!

Do you swag? so worth it...

On a disclaiming side note:
You may have noticed Pajama Mama no longer has sponsors. This is my choice. It is freeing to me to blog as I choose as often as I choose and not feel pressure to sell anything to anyone who cares to read about my life. Swagbucks is not a sponsor, and gains little from me posing about them. But You may benefit -like I benefit. I earn a $5 Amazon gift card about every other week just from using their search engine. This is nothing, I realize. But it is everything to a stay at home mom who needs very little to make her happy. A new book, a movie, a steam mop, school supplies. That is all I've gotten from Swagbucks. If you're interested, try it out!-And to disclose fully, if you start swagging from my referral link, I also earn a few more bucks-just like you will when you tell your friends!
Nuff said.

THE GIRLS' ROOM

2010-11-09T21:18:00.000-06:00

Belle turned 7 last week. Her wish was to move into her new room with Baby Girl. The room is now filled with girliness. I love it. We finished moving their clothes in this afternoon.

So, there you have it-our girls' room!

Handmade Holidays Quick Sew:: Pacifier Clips

2010-11-01T20:16:00.000-05:00

Is it too early for Handmade Holidays? Here's one for the babies on my list...

Joanne's had a 50% off sale on notions last week. I think I wiped the Plano store out of suspender clips. I'm loving homemade pacifier clips...I'll give a few a way, but now BabyGirl no longer has to worry about her pacifier clip clashing with her outfit. Whew-I know she'll sleep better now.

Happy

2010-10-29T11:02:00.001-05:00

To be honest (and truly grateful), I don't think there exists a better baby, and one more perfect for our family. I pray that we are what she needs, too! The other kids adore her, each in their own way.

Belle is enjoying being a second mommy to BabyGirl,

Boo is a cuddle-er and loves hugging on his newest sister.

And BigBoy.

BigBoy and BabyGirl are two peas in a pod. They look at each other and laugh. They speak the same language. I love their relationship and pray it's always close.

She is sleeping almost every night through the night, although now morning is earlier for us. I'm wondering if waking in the middle of night really wasn't such a bad thing, when we got to sleep in a little more...

but it is a season.

We had our readoption hearing Wednesday-everything went quickly and smoothly and now we wait for her new birth certificate. Then I'll apply for her SSN and citizenship.

Then we are done, right?

I think so.

Drawing with Children's Books

2010-10-20T12:30:00.001-05:00

Have you read Drummer Hoff? We brought home a copy from the library on our last trip. And each of us have commented on the texture of the illustrations...very cool. Here's a page:

Source

So yesterday I had to try the style myself:

Have you ever tried to imitate an illustration style? just for fun?

Quick Sew:: Kids' Tool Belt

2010-10-11T21:01:00.000-05:00

I mentioned Belle's taking Woodworking this semester. She's really loving it. She brought home a hot pink trivet last week and it's been used every night since.

Remember these fabrics? They're medium weight canvas, so I lined it all with flannel.

I've missed sewing lately. What have you been making?

How to throw a Miserable Hot Air Balloon Party in 3 sad steps

2010-09-30T08:50:00.000-05:00

1. Try to make miniature hot air balloons with helium balloons, Yogurtville cups, twine and masking tape. Do this outside, so the balloons can escape leaving the cups behind. This sets the tone for the entire evening. Sad moments to come.

2. Take beloved child outside in the 100 degree heat and take MANY pictures when he clearly does not want to be outside. These will be memories you will want to forget for years to come!

3. Finally, take all your beloved children out in the heat to honor the birthday boy with a 2 mile trek in flip-flops from the parking lot to the entrance to the Balloon Fest. Make sure there are HUGE crowds and nothing a 3 foot child could see beyond the backsides of every other Balloon Fest go-er.

Boo, you are such a special boy. Thank you for having such low expectations that you are rarely disappointed. I am blessed to call you my son. Next year will be better, I promise. Or not.

School Days

2010-09-14T10:37:00.000-05:00

We started our homeschool co-op yesterday...it was a super long day, but the kids really had fun.

Belle is taking Art, European Geography, Woodworking, Spanish and Manners for Everyday.
Boo is in Kindergarten for three hours in the morning, then Spanish and Playground Games in the afternoon. Big Boy is in the three-year old class all day, and Baby Girl is in the nursery.

This morning, we are back to school at home....it's a little more challenging after all the excitement of yesterday, but we're still at it.

How's your week?

Water Painting

2010-09-10T14:41:00.000-05:00

(It may be September, but my kids are still wearing bathing suits with some regularity.)

Last night I was telling a friend of my flylady habit of cleaning out my car each Friday-I like to start the weekend with a fresh van...that's not weird, right?

Usually that just means vacuuming the car, but on some (rare) days, we'll get the dish soap and daddy's old undershirts out and give the car a real car wash.

This job quickly turned into a water painting session on our driveway this afternoon. Who needs water parks (or recess) when you've got brushes and a bucket full of dirty car washing water?

Ahhh, now the weekend can begin.
Do you have any Friday habits?

Waiting Wall Art

2010-08-24T13:09:00.002-05:00

I wish I could host a playdate with you, my bloggy friends. I'd invite you in, start the coffee maker and direct any kiddos following you to the stairs that lead to our always messy playroom. My kids would love the time with friends, however new or old the friendships are.

But since that playdate likely won't happen, and many of you are nowheres near Texas, let me just welcome you into a little corner of our playroom. The corner without toys strewn all about. I love this corner.

A lifetime ago, back in June, while we were waiting for the phone call to let us know we passed court in Ethiopia, we needed an inside, near-the-phone distraction.

I had blank canvases in the back of my closet so the day seemed to be the best to pull them out and let the kids paint! I gave no instructions, but limited the paint to three colors that were already in the playroom. I love the whimsy they add to the room, as well as the memory of painting while we waited.

If you are in Texas, come on over. I'll get the coffee ready,

Baby Girl's Homecoming

2010-08-18T09:20:00.000-05:00

At Baby Girl's arrival in Dallas we had Cassie of

Twelve20 Photography meet us there to capture the moment.

She did an amazing job, and I am so thankful that out of her heart for adoption,

she offers her talent to adoptive families.

You can see more pictures of our family's reunion on Cassie's blog.

Thank you so much, Cassie. What a sweet gift our family will cherish for a long time!

Our 10 day trip in 10 pictures

2010-08-12T20:54:00.000-05:00

We began our trip with a stop in London.

We took advantage of the layover, and stayed the night.

A little babymoon...

Hey hon, take my picture while I take a picture of the Abbey, 'k?...

The next evening, we boarded a plane to Addis,

arriving early in the morning. Not too long after breakfast,

we took a short walk down a rocky street...

to Layla House,

where some little people were waiting for us...

they loved getting their pictures taken...

and playing with the cameras...

When we weren't hanging out at Layla, we saw a little of Addis.
Like the silk factory.

This is what a restaurant table looks like in Addis.
Not very big. This is a meal for about 10 of us.
Not complaining...I just wanted to make sure there was enough Shiro for me.

While we ate, beautiful people danced...

On our final day, we grabbed a group photo before we all went home in different directions.

It is amazing how adoption can bring such different but amazing people together.

I loved this about our trip most of all.

It is what leaves me wondering when we will back.

Thanks for praying us through the trip-it was an amazing experience.
And thank you all for your sweet comments. I've so appreciated you all throughout our process of bringing home Baby Girl.

We're Home!

2010-08-02T16:33:00.001-05:00

We're so glad to be home. These pictures were taken by my brother on our layover in DC, where my folks, brother and sister in law and awesome friend Amanda met us. Two flights later, we landed in Dallas, where we were met by our kids and Mr. Smarty's folks. Both reunions were super sweet. I will post more later, once my eyelids stop rolling in there sockets.

Thanks for all who prayed-everything went as smooth as possible-quite amazing! And Baby Girl is a doll! Love her!!!!!

Ready, Set...

2010-07-26T00:00:00.000-05:00

We're almost set.

On my list to-do this week, was write a card for each of our homegrown kids for each day we are gone. I usually only had time to write while they were sleeping, and once they were asleep the idea of leaving them for any amount of time broke my heart. Of course, the tone of the letters written while they were awake and roughhousing all around me is a little different. Still sweet though.

With each envelope, I tucked a little piece of something special-a package of stickers, a box of cracker jacks, a sheet of button candy. And on one special day the boys will be opening a package of spongebob briefs. yes, nothing says a mother's love like new underwear.

If you pray, would you pray these things for our family:

For Baby Girl, that she is healthy (free from virus, disease, parasites, delays)

That God prepares Baby Girl's heart for us. Please also pray for her transition, attaching quickly and immediately see us as mommy and daddy.

For a safe trip, that everything goes smoothly (no glitches in paperwork, lost luggage, airlines, Guest Home, etc.) and that we are brought back together as a family of SIX. :)

For our kids at home with their grandparents-that their time together would be a special time, everyone would stay safe and healthy and sane (the sanity is more for my amazing in-laws than my kids).

That we are able to serve God while we are being blessed so deeply. That we glorify Him in all circumstances.

For the biological family, that they know the peace only Christ can give.

Thank you, friends,

Bring on the Rain

2010-07-24T00:00:00.006-05:00

We are officially ready for rainy season. Our Tretorns arrived!

I'll be sporting the Tretorn Skerry all over Addis while Mr. Smarty will wear the Tretron Strala Sommar.

I think I may not bring any other footwear, you know, since I'm packing light.

Big Families Pack Light

2010-07-21T12:37:00.002-05:00

I'm so glad I got Baby Girl's car seat cover done a few weeks ago-when I thought I had ALL THE TIME IN THE WORLD.

It's now in the van, and I'm officially declaring our van at maximum capacity.

The next road trip could be interesting, but now that I've been reading up on packing, I think I'm actually pretty good at packing light. Have you heard of bundle packing? Amazing!

Here are a few other articles I poured over in preparing for our trip:

A to-do list by another AAI family
How to pack a suit case for ET
Packing for baby-adoption travel

Do you have any packing secrets?

DIY Shower Favors

2010-07-13T15:31:00.006-05:00

We got our travel dates!

A million and one things to do, but the shower at our house on Saturday is pretty much taken care of. I used Entemann's Cookies in small plastic zipper bags (in the beading section at craft stores) as fillers for these little pouches:

Decorations are up, now I just have to worry about that little trip coming up...

We're all set paper-wise, flight-wise, and accommodation-wise...all except for one pesky little paper that could ruin it all. I am believing God is in control of everything, even Homeland Security. But, if you think of it, could you pray that our approval for our I-600a shows up by tomorrow?

*****UPDATE: It came!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you Lord!******************

By the way, this was another Twig and Thistle inspired idea!

DIY Fabric Garland

2010-06-29T15:06:00.001-05:00

I just got a new tool-a rotary cutter with a pinking blade! Cutting fabric has never been more fun. Okay, I wouldn't say cutting fabric has ever been loads of fun, but today was pretty close.

I'm hosting a shower for an expecting friend in a couple of weeks and thought a fabric garland

would be festive. I used a tutorial from Twig & Thistle but made my triangle template

8 inches high by 5 inches wide.

Anyone else love their rotary cutter? (by the way, they are 50% off at Joann's this weekend!)

We Passed!!!!

2010-06-23T15:47:00.001-05:00

She's ours!

Just got the email that said we could learn of our travel dates in 2-3 weeks, likely traveling in early August!

Yippee!!!!! Thank you, Lord!

By the way, if you're interested in the first chapter of Priceless-it's a free download at SheIsPriceless.com!

Books that make you want to do something: A giveaway

2010-06-22T14:33:00.012-05:00

I love a good story. Especially one that moves me. Often I read stories that move me to tears. Every once in a while I read one that moves me to act.

In honor of Sorette and our passing court tomorrow (call it faith?), I thought I would share a few books that have impacted me so much so that we will bring home our fourth baby a somewhat atypical way.

I read There is No Me Without You by Melissa Fay Green and knew I could not ignore Ethiopia's defenseless. I wanted to bring a dozen babies home before I finished the last page. Read it. I dare you not to be moved.

Not too long after we began our adoption process, I was sent a copy of Red Letters by Tom Davis. He is the president/CEO of Children's HopeChest, a children's advocacy organization that helps churches and corporations around the U.S. adopt an orphanage and make a real difference in the lives of orphans. This great book describes the reality of life for much of the world's orphans.

A few years later, I heard Tom Davis had written a novel, and not just one. But his first novel in particular was recommended by a friend. Scared is the story of an orphan girl in AIDS-devastated Swaziland and a photojournalist who cannot do nothing. It is a hard sad story, but one with hope and redemption.

And now, Tom Davis has continued the story of the photojournalist, Stuart Daniels, on another mission in a new novel, Priceless set in Russia. It's gripping from the first page, all the while so eye opening and thought provoking. Possibly, God-willing, even life-changing. My heart has definitely softened to the many orphaned girls in Russia because of this story.

So, now for the giveaway! Tom Davis has offered a signed copy of Priceless to one commenter on Pajama Mama. A winner will be chosen on Sunday, June 27th.

Thanks for reading Pajama Mama and caring about the story of our girl!
***************GIVEAWAY CLOSED-Congrats, Shannon!*****************************

A New Court Date

2010-06-18T11:40:00.002-05:00

Now we see only an indistinct image in a mirror, but then we will be face to face.

Now what I know is incomplete, but then I will know fully, even as I have been fully known.

I Corinthians 13:12

It's been that kind of week.

On Tuesday, as I was flying to my aunt's funeral, I got the email that said our case was not heard in

court. It was a national holiday and offices there were closed. Our new court date is Wednesday, June 23rd.

A Dresser and a Court Date

2010-06-08T12:17:00.001-05:00

We got our court date! June 15th-one week from today. I am praying that we pass on the first go 'round and am hoping to hear word that day, as they are 8 hours ahead of us. Travel could be 8 weeks after court, so nesting is now!

Sunday night, I found this beautiful chest of drawers on Craigslist just 4 miles from us! Picked it up less than an hour after I saw it posted. It's so beautiful-too beautiful to paint pink. Really I was looking for something more shabby on the outside and still clean on the inside. This was the closest I could find, but not shabby enough on the outside to justify a coat of pale pink. It's staying the way it is.

Girls Room:: Dallas Sources

2010-06-03T15:24:00.000-05:00

The girls' room is coming along painfully slow (to me, anyway). I made it my Memorial Day goal to get fabric for the one window in the room. And although I finally ended up with a purplish grey printed cotton from Hancock, I found a few new sources for fabric.

Fabric sources: Sew Mama Sew Shop (online)

City Craft (small local fabric shop that carries Amy Butler, Anna Marie Horner, Michael Miller, etc.)

I totally thought this was grey when I bought it. When I stepped outside the store, it was obviously more purple. But I still like it.

I'm still on the mad hunt for a vintage tall dresser/chest of drawers/wardrobe thing to paint a pale pink. In my hunt, though, I've found a few new Dallas shops that sell used furniture:

Lula B's: 2 locations with booths of Mid-century relics, furniture.

Atomica Modern: more Mid-century goodness.

Salvation Army at Harry Hines (although the entrance is on Inwood): the largest SA I've been to, loads of furniture.

Still looking...

Any local favorites you've found?