Home Life By Design

Kindergarten Valentine

2012-02-06T10:41:00.002-08:00

We are ready for Sam's Kindergarten Valentines Day Party!

I kept it simple this year, all Sam had to do for his classmate's valentines was sign his name. He seemed okay with that simple task. For his teachers Sam painted his hands and stamped them on some paper which I cut out and wrapped around some hand lotion. I know I never have enough hand lotion around.

All I did was cut out some triangles, wrote a message (yeah, I know it's quick and dirty), Sam signed his name and I used glue dots to secure the triangle flag to the top of the pencil.

For the teacher's valentine first Sam stamped his hands in paint. Next step was to cut out his hands and glue them on to heavier paper. Next I wrote a message and taped around a travel size bottle of lotion. So simple, so easy. That's it, do you have any clever valentines ideas that are simple and quick?

Kindergarten Valentine

2012-02-06T10:41:00.001-08:00

Library

2012-02-04T20:54:00.000-08:00

The girls and I have been going to Story Time at a nearby library and we are having fun! The girls get to sing songs, practice their counting and color to their hearts content. After story time we often choose some books to check out. Here are the girls' choices this past week. They look so big sitting in the library sharing a book. Where does the time go? These are some sweet moments. I sure love my little readers.

Snow Day

2012-01-18T20:30:00.001-08:00

Snow day in Seattle! Here are some pictures of our sledding adventures today and some snow eye candy from Pinterest.

Some adorable snow animals, human etc.

I'm so proud of my Sam pickle. He was ready to go in after just a short time outdoors and then the neighbors saved the day with their enticing snow boogie boards and jump hills. He was sledding like a big boy when all was said and done.

After a solid hour, yep, that's right just an hour. With two almost three year olds and a brother that doesn't like the snow on his skin (oh good Lord the whining) we had to get inside after one hour. Hot chocolate for everyone. I was really wishing we had some liquor to spike those drinks. Maybe it's time to stock some liquor, I am after all almost...I can't even say the number, it's freaking me out. The big one ladies...the major birthday is approaching. Let's move on- I can barely stomach the thought, remember-I don't have any liquor in the house.

Wonder where this is. Can you imagine driving

through this?

Feeling couped up yet, Seattle? I guess it could be worse, we could be stuck here. Maybe that's just what I need. An isolated shanty in the woods to hear myself think.

Well, after a day in the snow I have a

mental snow gear list I want/need for myself for next year. I'm pretty sure I have been making this list for several years now, and seem to get by with the gear I have, but if I had to venture outside my neighborhood, it would be a different story.

1)I wore my Crocs rainboots, which worked, but any longer than an hour and my toes would have started to get cold. I would really like some serious snow boots.

2) Snow pants. I squeezed into some old snow pants I have had for years. I can't even zip them up, yet they stay on quite well. Luckily my jacket covers them. I thought it was funny and had to show my neighbor gal friend. Yeah, probably ought to have snow pants that actually fit properly.

3) Plastic saucers or sleds. The old vintage Radio Flyer sled just doesn't cut it, it's really more for an icy surface. Thank goodness for neighbors with big boys who share their toys.

4) Can you guess what my fourth snow item that I mu

st have for next year? Liquor of course!

Well, it looks like another snow day tomorrow. I think I'll be all set with snow days after tomorrow and ready to get back to routine. Maybe we will make a snowman? If you have any fun ideas for indoor activities to keep the tots busy, please share! Happy snow days.

*All professional images copied via Pinterest*

My New Puppy

2012-01-16T09:01:00.000-08:00

Which is a photo, on a card, from the store! He's so cute that I couldn't resist. I have been craving a little puppy love lately. We would like to have a new dog in our family, but alas puppy love will have to wait a few more years. We have enough poop in our life with two tots still in diapers and two cats. Until then, I pin warm fuzzy animals on Pinterest.

This was our dog Harry, he was giving Sam a smooch. He was a big boy, our Fozzy Bear. We miss him.

Stay cozy-it's chilly out there!

Fresh Air

2012-01-11T12:52:00.000-08:00

It's a beautiful day in Seattle.

Olympic Mountains

I drive down this hill every day and today it was quite a nice view.

Aah, pleasant words. I stumbled upon this poem thumbing through a book @ Alderbrook Resort on the Hood Canal a few years ago. I thought of it today looking out across the Puget Sound driving home from dropping my son at school this morning. The Olympics are beautiful on this sunny day in Seattle. Yesterday, I finally got myself outside and walked around Greenlake and again I thought of this poem. There is nothing more invigorating then some good old fashion fresh air. I forget about getting myself outdoors in the dark, rainy winter months here in Seattle. It's quite chilly out there, but gorgeous.

My husband painted this several years ago.

Here is the painting framed with the poem. I thought they went well together.

Hope you are able to get outside and enjoy the fresh air!

Organization Ideas

2012-01-08T16:33:00.000-08:00

I have organization on the brain. I want to clear out the crap and organize every closet, cupboard and drawer in my home. It's all a bit overwhelming, so instead I surf the blogs & Pinterest and see what other creative people have come up with to organize their home. There is a lot of great inspiration out there and I hope to implement one or two of these ideas...eventually. If only there was an extra day in the week. Do you have any great organizing tips you would like to share?

Pinned via pinmarklet

Doesn't this look like a nice outdoor storage solution?
Seems like an awfully nice shelf to have outside, but if you found a thrift store shelf and spruced it up, that would be practical. I love the galvanized buckets.

From makeit-loveit.com

This is genius. Click on link above for tutorial on how to make. Makeit-loveit used fabric to wrap the plastic. This is a fab. DIY for gifts. Who doesn't have an IPod, phone or something they need to charge? I'm saving my next empty bottle of baby wash or lotion and I am going to give this project a go.

!via @TidyMom

Pretty & Practical

marthastewart.com

I love this idea to save space and it's perfect for my kids' bathroom.

I've seen these spice organizers at Storables. I want one asap.

sewmanyways.blogspot.com

So much crap, so little space.

I wish I had room outdoors or a covered area outdoors for such creative & attractive storage. During the warmer months the outdoor toys, balls etc. makes me crazy. I don't want toys strewn all over my lawn. Ya know, same as the inside of the house, pick up your toys!

realsimple.com

ohdeedoh.com

A very attractive closet. I like the use of curtains instead of doors.

Now, if you have this many cats to store...you have bigger issues. Two cats is probably enough people. And of course, we don't store our cats. But, they're cute, right?

familyfun.go.com

These are cereal boxes taped together, very clever.

http://theredchairblog.blogspot.com/2009/09/diy-storage-for-transient-items.html

It is my goal to create these bins or a space for them. Very organized indeed.

marthastewart.com

These shelves are so clean & organized. I want my closet to look this perfect. Oh, well yeah it's Martha Stewart, no wonder. Dreamy.

Found this on Pinterest, love the chalkboard labels. These look like Ikea bins w/out the lids.

marthastewart.com

Hope this inspires you to clear some clutter and get organized in a creative way. Please do share any tips you may have on organizing.

Burlap DIY

2012-01-05T22:37:00.001-08:00

http://adiamondinthestuff.blogspot.com/2011/02 /burlap-bins-kitchen-storage.htm

I love these burlap bins I found @ A Diamond in the Stuff's blog. Who couldn't use storage bins? She simply painted a cardboard box (cut off top half) and covered in burlap. Click on link for full tutorial. For my version, I would stencil on black letters and use grossgrain ribbon. I will definitely file this idea away for future crafting.

http://burlapanddenim.com/2011/10/diy-barrel-shade-chandelier/

Innovative idea for softening a busy chandelier.

Check out some of these fun DIY burlap projects floating out in blogland. It's all about burlap in craft world these days. What fun projects will you be inspired to make?

http://myhouseandhome.wordpress.com/2011/12/31/diy-burlap-place-mats/

Fun & easy placemats created by my friend, Taysa. Follow link above for tutorial. Imagine the possibilities. You could paint monograms, have themed mats for parties, holidays or events.

http://eventsbysocialgraces.com/2011/09/07/diy-burlap-name-banner/

http://www.bystephanielynn.com/2010/07/simple-ruffle-table-runner.html

This is lovely

http://www.my3monsters.com/2011/01/freshening-up -bit.html

Great texture on rosette style pillow and a monogram burlap pillow with ruffle edge is a nice touch.

www.shanty2chic.blogspot.com

Cute Burlap covered chair with painted stencil letter

Love this Pottery Barn Advent Calendar, could be a potential DIY idea for next Christmas

White Bean Red Pepper Spread

2012-01-05T14:31:00.000-08:00

Here's a yummy dip/spread I made to share with friends. It's from the Forks Over Knives cookbook which has some fantastic recipes. So far everything I've tried from this book has turned out delicious. If you are looking for a quick, easy, healthy dip, give this a try.

DIY Crayons

2011-12-29T20:12:00.000-08:00

Christmas Vacation means finding activities to keep the tots busy. Last week we made circle crayons with our large tub of broken crayons that I was so tempted to toss in the trash, but alas reused. How green of me right? It kept them all busy

for a short time, sorting and filling the tins with the broken bits.

The girls had fun stacking and re-stacking and simply making crayon towers rather than coloring with them like their brother. No matter, they had fun and thought it was pretty interesting that the broken crayons were transformed into circle crayons.

Think of all the shapes you could make depending on your mold. It would be fun to package the crayons up in a fun way and add a coloring book for a DIY gift. Got any broken crayons around? Don't toss them reuse and repurpose. Happy melting.

Pillow Pads

2011-12-28T20:33:00.001-08:00

Pinterest sparked the inspiration for my kids' Christmas gift this year. I love to give something handmade if I can swing it.

Sew on Velcro was the way to go with three rectangles per pillow case.

These were not easy to find on the cheap. I needed fifteen pillowcases for my project, so the cheaper the better. Target & Ikea both have two packs for $5.99. I also purchased the pillows from Ikea at a buck a piece, that's as cheap as they come. The total cost per pillow pad ran approximately $30 bucks a pad. Not too bad considering the price of say a bean bag chair. The kids love them and it's so cute to watch them all cozy, next to one another watching a movie. I can proudly say, I pinned it from Pinterest and then I actually did it!

Great Words

2011-12-28T10:16:00.001-08:00

Here are some of my favorite quotes and words as found on Pinterest. Enjoy!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T09:21:00.000-08:00

Christmas Window Shopping In Ballard

2011-12-21T11:57:00.000-08:00

Upon leaving one of my favorite Ballard restaurants, Bastille I stopped short at the sight of this elegant, stylish, eye catching lobby across the street. I had to get a closer look. The light fixtures and high contrast design is fantastic! Hotel Ballard-I wonder what the rooms are like.

Here's Bastille, they have a back bar, look it's open late, for night owls like me. However, my late nights out on the town are few and far between...by design.

After parting ways with my friends at Bastille, I enjoyed the lights and window displays along Ballard Ave. This has to be one of my favorite streets in our city. There are so many great shops & restaurants.

Crafts & Cocktails

2011-12-18T20:45:00.000-08:00

My crafty, creative, green thumb friends hosted a mini-craft bazaar for a select group of folks

to enjoy wine, snacks and shop handmade goods. What a great idea! I think I may even want to participate on the vendor side next year. This display of homemade pickled vegetables are sustainable as you can get. The veggies were grown just a few feet away in the backyard. I bought the garlic pickles for my brother to snack on Christmas day.

Another table with Toffee made right in the vendor's kitchen that very day. I sampled many bites and proceeded to buy a bag. Totally ate it all the next day.

This is my new earring holder. It keeps my earrings organized and doubles as art for my wall.

If you are interested in purchasing one of these handy earring displays, or any other items please contact Heather Lueck, info on card below.

Some of the shoppers plus one crafter.

Cozy Knits for sale

Candles

It was a fun evening and such a clever way to mix some holiday shopping with socializing while supporting local crafters/gardeners. What to make for next year's party?

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups, Happy Accidents & Snowman Art

2011-12-14T16:59:00.000-08:00

These made from scratch peanut butter cups are amazing! I now make them during the holidays as a nice handmade treat for friends. You can package them however you like, but don't bother too much because they will be eaten and gone quickly. I have to give them away soon after making them or I will be sure to eat them all.

These are so mouthwatering, can't stop at one, bomb diggity good!

I had lots of chocolate left over from the peanut butter cups and I couldn't toss it out. Throw out perfectly good chocolate? No way! Husband suggests, "Dip something in it". I just bought a fresh box of graham crackers, perfect. This was a very happy chocolate accident. The kids ate 'em up and I feel good that I didn't waste chocolate.

Mr. Sam Pickle brought this fun grid snowman home yesterday. I love it! Kid art is the best.

Busy Busy...

2011-12-14T14:31:00.001-08:00

Are you ready? Nope, not me. Projects, baking, sewing, decorating...the list goes on. I think I'll just close my eyes for a few minutes. Because ready or not, here comes Christmas!

An Evening @ Five

2011-12-12T14:10:00.001-08:00

Lucky me, I got out of the house and spent some time with a dear friend while enjoying a very delicious meal by the fire @ Five in Edmonds. If you haven't checked out Five, I recommend their caesar salad, yummy!

I think Joanna must have changed her seat about...four times. I'm so high maintenance and she appeased me. The first seat by the door I was facing a black curtain. Um, hello I need to check out the place. So, she switched seats with me. Then we moved to their outside dining, yes, in 35 degree weather. It was completely enclosed and as you can see they have ample fire to keep you warm. Then she moved to sit next to me as we could not share our amazing food across the fire.

I departed from veganism full force that evening and it was worth it! We enjoyed mini scallops in a creamy cheesy sauce, caesar salad, and pizza with red onions, goat cheese and pancetta which they toasted extra crispy before baking it on the pizza. It was all so delicious. Of course we finished it all off with a flourless chocolate espresso cake.

The best part about being in this space was we had it all to ourselves. The twinkle lights and the warm fire was all we needed. We are two busy, tired mamas!

It's good to get out and it's great to catch up with old friends. Tis the season.

Pinecones, Pinterest & Procrastinating

2011-12-08T13:12:00.001-08:00

Here is my version of the Pinecone Garland I found on Pinterest. If you haven't tried Pinterest, I highly recommend spending some time pinning and getting inspired. From fashion, to food to crafts, to home design you can find something to peak your interest.

I was looking for an alternative to spending $$$ on a live wreath for our front door this holiday season. Cedar wreaths are lovely and smell great, but I'm always trying to save a buck. I'm thrilled with my creation and elated that I had all the supplies in my crap room. I mean, craft room! I would have preferred the nice wide ribbon like the Pinterest Garland, but you do the best you can with what you have.

Here are all the supplies I used. It was so simple, so easy. E-600 is my go to glue. It holds everything! I put it all together while the kiddos watched The Polar Express. Nothing like a holiday movie and crafts to get you in the spirit of the season.

Well, the countdown has begun and Christmas is fast approaching. Are you procrastinating your shopping, decorating or perhaps deciding where the heck you are going to split your time with family? My heart beats a bit faster when I think about all there is to do. Last night after my t.v. time I sat in silence with only the Christmas tree lights on, pet my Jack Kitter sleeping peacefully on my lap and tried to put my anxiety of all there is ahead to rest.

Still on my list to do:

Hang the stockings

Finish Decorating the tree (but is it worth it when the girls take down almost every ornament leaving little piles around the house?)

Put out Nativity

Shopping

Menu Planning

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Here's to taking it slow and enjoying the season.

The Lights of My Life

2011-12-07T10:47:00.000-08:00

Christmas vacation is fast approaching which makes me a little nervous about...my nerves! Three kids at home all day long can get a bit crazy. Heck two all day long is crazy. But, alas I love these little monkeys. Sam Pickle, Sarah Pumpkin and my Marin Berry are the lights of my life! They are all such individuals and I am thankful I get to be with them every day.

They certainly get into trouble, creating messes for me all day long. We decorated the tree last night and today while Sam is at school the girls are enjoying taking the ornaments off the tree and leaving little piles for me all over the house. Heavy sigh.

What is on your list for vacation activities? We have workbooks, fresh crayons, new Trio Blocks, cookie baking, salt dough ornaments to name a few of the activities on our list. Wouldn't it be amazing if it snowed? I'm dreaming of a white Christmas.

Trader Joe's Freebies and Great Wine

2011-12-02T11:31:00.000-08:00

Have you been to Trader Joe's lately? I stopped by to pick up a couple items and look what I ended up with...free gift tags! Their paper grocery bags are covered in these cut outs for Christmas. I broke the rules and left the dotted lines with the tags because I like the look, kind of reminds me of stitching.
Directions, in case you get confused.

I tried this wine a few weeks ago and enjoyed it very much. I made sure to pick up another bottle. Organic grapes, too!

I bought this craft wrap @ Big Lots and think these paper tags from the bags will go quite nicely.

Strips to cut out and make a garland

At first glance, you might not notice these great tags, such a nifty and thrifty idea. Thanks, Trader Joes.

A look back at fall

2011-11-26T11:12:00.000-08:00

Finally, this weekend we cleaned up the garden, composted the pumpkins and de-decked fall decor. Fall was full of fun memories and some important milestones for our snooter pickle, Sam. Some of our fall happenings include Sam starting Kindergarten and cross country running! We started a theme dinner for Fridays-Pizza Friday. I love me some Pizza Friday-this means no cooking, easy cleaning and everyone loves a yummy pizza. Since I have become "mostly" vegan, I look forward to my pizza on Friday. Other fall memories include having a CSA box delivered bi-weekly. CSA (community supported agriculture). Then there was the pumpkin farm visit, all those fall veggies, beautiful sunny weather to play outdoors, painting with friends and of course, Thanksgiving. The kids winding down after Thanksgiving

My sister in-law's wall in her living room. There's something warm and inviting about it.

Initial Place Setting Cards

At least the kids enjoyed their pie, dinner not so much.

Potato Painting with the kids over Thanksgiving break.

Messy fun!

I simply cut up my Trader Joe's shopping bags, cut shapes in potatoes and the kids dipped them in paint poured in the re-used applesauce cups.

Enjoying pizza and hot chocolate with friends.

Playing in the leaves

Our short and simple Autumn Fun List

Store front that caught me eye, so fall.

Getting ready to roast some fall harvest.

Kindergarten!

First day of school, exciting!

Our first CSA box. Having beautiful fruits and veggies arrive on my doorstep was the best.

Leaves collected from a fall walk in the park.

Our garden visitor.

Sharing marigolds.

Halloween

Cross Country with best friends is great. Pumpkin Run finished off the Cross Country season. Run through and then pick your pumpkin.

The "secret tunnel" described by Sam

Sam's stance here makes me flash forward to high school.

Picked our pumpkins

CSA in a basket

We have a huge chestnut tree in our yard. Every year we harvest them and every year I intend to roast them. They still sit on my windowsill.

Halloween party @ school. Best friends.

Turkey Punk!

More fall painting with friends.

Dinner Club

This was a random fall vignette. I put the doorknob rack on the table to glue one of the knobs that fell off and it all sort of worked for me so I snapped a photo.

Hope your fall was memorable. It's the little things that mean the most like walks in the parks, fresh vegetables, sunny days in the garden and sharing time together. I'm thankful for all the wondeful fall memories we have made this year. Now on to the Christmas season! I'm trying to kindle the Christmas spirit, but I'm not quite there yet. Any tips to get in the holiday spirit?

DIY Zinc Letters

2011-11-21T21:52:00.000-08:00

I finally dug my cardboard K from the depths of my "craft" room a.k.a. crap room and created a zinc looking letter. Much cheaper than a real zinc letter of course. I already had the letter laying around and the black paint. I purchased pearl essence paint and a couple foam brushes. This is brilliant whomever thought of this technique. It truly looks like zinc. So simple, so easy, so inexpensive.

This is where my K hangs.

Zinc like, yes?

First step, paint your letter with black paint.

Once painted black, cover with the pearl essence paint.

That's it, that's all. I have had this project on my list for at least a year. K letter painted, check!

Moms and Toddlers Invade Ikea

2011-11-18T11:52:00.000-08:00

Four of us moms ventured to Ikea with our two year olds and shopped 'till we dropped-all of us! Who knew Ikea could be such a fun playdate? A $3.25 breakfast, toddler size shopping carts for the tots to fill soft, plush stuffed animals of all variety and shopping for the mamas. These are the curtains I bought to hang in my girls room once we transition to big girl beds. I also bought the black and white abc bedding t coordinate. I love the sketch style trees, branches and birds.

Fill those carts kiddos.

Cute, right? But, maybe too cute for me.

Snack time, everyone pile in.

Good times @ Ikea with friends.

Here is the ABC bedding.

How cute is this car filled with animals? These kiddos are even cuter.

These girls decided to take a quick nap under the leaf curtains before powering through more shopping. That shaggy carpet looks like a nice place for a rest. Oh, to be two.

Ikea trays, I want them all. The birds would be fun to have for kids, perhaps gathering craft supplies from cupboard to table? Maybe serving them their hot chocoloate and popcorn?

fun pink stripes

I would love to curl up in this peaceful room.

What a sophisticated big boy room for Sam someday?

Marin couldn't put enough animals in her cart. She's definitely a shopper.

Sarah's leading the shoppers and loving it. "C'mon guys, let's keep shopping. There are some alligators ahead."

Toddler Time @ Ikea

Marin, Leo, Lauren & Sarah

I dream about a kitchen lke this. So clean, so fresh so nice.

These play kitchens are so sweet.

Thanks Ikea, for having us.

A Fall Visit to Swansons Nursery

2011-10-28T10:05:00.000-07:00

What to do on a Saturday in Seattle? Last fall we headed to Swanson's Nursery for some hay maze chasin', pumpkin carving and hot dogs. We decided to go again this year but skipped the hot dogs and got all fancy with lunch in the restaurant. Sometimes you just have to splurge and enjoy. Three tired kids, waiting patiently for lunch in the atrium @ Swanson's Nursery. Sarah and Sam have the same expression. There is no mistaking these kids are siblings. I love that about them!

Here's my gang, getting ready for a hayride on the John Deer tractor. This would be Sam's third hayride of the season. Maybe that's why he looks so pensive? Well, the girls look raring to go.

Sarah seems in high spirits in this moment. Maybe it's the pumpkin bracelets.

Hay girls, how's the hay maze?

Swanson's has the best displays. This garden statue caught my eye.

Or how about this lush mossy vignette?

Loving this vintage old tractor. This pic. would be fun as a fall greeting card, maybe next year? Sure, sure. I'll put that on my list of fun craft ideas. We'll see if it actually happens.

The Tractor

More Swanson eye candy

Oh my gourdness!

If you haven't checked out the gift shop area, it's a must see. Shopping amidst the plants is a nice experience. These wire candle lanterns are a fun shape.

I'll take one of each pot, please. Loving the greys and teals.

This photo is not from Swanson's Nursery, it's my neighbors porch. I would be willing to bet all the dark chocolate in my fridge that she bought the plants from Swanson's though. The display is certainly Swansonesqe.

Gift shop eye candy

Aren't these eye popping? Another neighbor did buy these and every time I drive by her house these bright orange Chinese Lanterns catch my eye and I do a double take. I love fall!

K5 (Kirch 5)

Sarah & Marin enjoying the hay maze

The Atrium Dining-a wonderful lunch spot. But, I can't help but make one small complaint. The kid's cheese quesadilla was served with a side of Lay's chips. Yep, chips. So some fat with a side of fat. Really? A bit of fruit would have been nice. Ah well.

All in all, a lovely couple hours spent enjoying fall fall and getting fresh air and one less meal to make at home, ha!

Thrift Store Find

2011-10-25T14:02:00.001-07:00

Aren't these woodblock stamps cute? I found these today at my local Value Village. The kids and I will have fun making cards for all occasions with these niftly little stamps. I especially like the owl and elephant. Not bad for $2.99! Happy stamping.

Where to keep pending homework?

2011-10-16T22:40:00.000-07:00

This nifty and inexpensive idea helps keep my son's homework in one spot ready to grab. I originally spotted this craft on Pinterest and do not know of it's original post. Thanks to whomever came up with this clever catchall. Simply take a cereal box, cut the sides and glue some scrap fabric. I love that I had this numbers fabric for a homework box. Now I want to make more and in various sizes, like say a smaller box that was once held crackers.

Seabold Vintage Market

2011-03-24T16:52:00.001-07:00

Last weekend I checked out the Seabold Vintage Flea Market held on one of our beautiful islands. The flea market wasn't as big as I thought it would be, but still worth the trip. The popular Barn House Boys were there with gorgeous displays and wares. The sun was shining making it the perfect afternoon for a little "me" time. Barn House Vignette

Barn House

Who doesn't love a stack of vintage suitcases?

Birds, Birds, Birds...birds are EvErYwHeRe!

Flowers

2011-03-14T11:21:00.000-07:00

I found flowers on my doorstep yesterday! They are beautiful (see below) and it got me thinking about spring and the blooms we have to look forward to. It has been raining non-stop and it's darn gloomy so I thought some flower inspiration would be just the thing to remind us that the rain will eventually stop.

My birthday bouquet, so lovely!

Chalkboard Door

2011-02-20T14:44:00.000-08:00

I promised to show you all my chalkboard door. I never imagined I would have a romantic message like this to share. I woke up this morning and walked down the stairs to find this! At first I thought it was "Ten things Dad and Mom love about Sam" but it was about me! This made my day. What more can I say?

Spring Fashion

2011-02-18T09:38:00.000-08:00

Last week I received the latest Nordstrom catalog, and I have to say it had me wanting more. More fashion please! Something about nearing the end of winter and the hope of spring makes me crave new clothes. Being a stay at home mom (gag, that term irks me) I don't have disposable income for frivolous spending, i.e. new high-priced fashion. But alas, I can still crave it, peruse the latest catalogs and dream of a day when I'm able to indulge and wear such fashion. For now, it's whatever can wash and wear easily. It's preschool drop off and park attire for this fashionista.

Now here's a jacket that could very well be appropriate for my life, but...too $$.

Love me some gingham check

I want, I need, I have to have.

Beautiful handbags are but a faded memory for me.

Chic

Fancy makeup, for what? How practical when I'm wiping drool and snot off my face from tots all day long.

Maybe for a night out with the ladies?

Fun eye wear for the sunny days ahead.

Gorgeous! I would probably break my ankle and really can't see myself chasing twins with these on, but...oh so pretty.

A wedding, Easter, a spring/summer party?

Drinks with the ladies, date night (another term that makes me gag).

Love this dress, love it.

Preschool Valentine's Day Cards

2011-02-11T14:34:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines Day folks! I hesitated to post this, due to the rudimentary style of these preschool valentines. The cards aren't fancy, there's nothing especially clever about them, and I'm quite certain people won't be clamoring to copy them. But...when Sam said to me "Thanks for helping me with this mom.", my heart melted, my eyes filled with tears and I thought, "I have to post this." These cards had several steps and took a few days of assembly. Sam did all the cutting, gluing, writing and arranging and had so much fun making these cards for his friends and teachers.

Sam's 2011 Valentines

Barn House

2011-02-09T14:31:00.000-08:00

Last summer my good friend Mrs. Kopp and I went to our first antique outdoor market @ Barn House. I'm sure a lot of you bloggers are familiar with the vintage extravaganza that is held annually in Battleground, WA. We had so much fun and the inspiration was endless. It's a must go, see and shop for this year, too. Even if you're not buying, it's worth the trip. The displays and vignettes get the inspiration and creative juices flowing. It's truly a delight and a trip to the country is always good for the soul. The photo below was a bit of a detour from our destination. Us city gals got a little lost out on those back country roads. We didn't mind.

Mrs. Kopp thought this nest was fun and an idea to jump start a theme for her laundry room. Later that day she bought an adorable bird painting.

Fun scissor display

One of the many vintage bike displays. What is it about bikes that I like so much?

So...hearth and home.

Love this display!

Wish I had these metal chairs.

Vintage suitcase stacked are so great...where could I put them?

Yep, Barn House is on my mind. Looking forward to planning our next trip.

Fabulous Finds, Friends & Fun

2011-02-09T09:54:00.000-08:00

How fabulous is this mirror? And it's twin? I have a thing for twins. My friend, Mrs. Kopp has great taste and is in the process of decorating her new house. The fam and I packed our bags and hit the road to visit our friends, The Kopps for an overnight of food and fun. The kids played, the men drank and Mrs. Kopp and I went through the house checking out all the new finds, cabinetry, lighting, artwork and more. I had a nasty cold, but I was a trooper and hit the road anyway.
Twin Mirrors-You won't find these in the Pottery Barn catalog which means your next door neighbor won't have the same thing, love that they are original.

This is a peaceful room. Mrs. Kopp is still tweaking, but it's coming along quite nicely. The twin mirrors set the tone.

Fun dog artwork, again, originals created by the mini Kopps.

Linen/Iron Sconces in Mrs. Kopp's Hallway

Custom pillow for the Kopp's bedroom, cute right?

New bathroom vanity, loving the color and design. These cabinets are counter height...much more forgiving on your back.

The Kopp and Kirch kids hunkering down for a movie.

The K3 and K2 having a little dinner. I'm looking forward to our next visit!

Chalkboard Platter

2011-02-08T17:06:00.000-08:00

While I realize that this is not an original idea, I am proud to have finally followed through with the project. This was so incredibly simple and I now have a fun, new menu board for the kitchen. Now when the the Mr. gets home he can glance at the new menu board and either pitch in to help get the menu on the table or at least know what to expect for dinner.
This was $9.99 at Home Depot and can be used for many more chalkboard projects. We painted the back of our front door with this paint and it's super fun to draw and write messages. Pics. to come another day.

I found this on clearance and then more clearance at Fred Meyer. I paid a mere $3.00 for this dinner plate. I taped off the edges with painters tape, used a sponge brush to paint the chalkboard paint on and let dry. Viola, a chalkboard platter. I bought a few extra plates to make as gifts for friends and hostess gifts. Happy platter hunting. Marshall's and Ross have plates on clearance for dirt cheap FYI.

Got Milk?

2011-02-04T10:13:00.001-08:00

Got Milk? We do. Milk is extremely important around here. We go through lots of milk in this house. I personally, do not drink the stuff anymore. Recently we signed up for milk delivery and I have to say it's been fun. Every Friday we have something to look forward to on our front porch. I know if I'm running low there will be milk on Friday for sure. The girls have fun checking the box for our milk delivery-they even help carry the goods inside!

They often like to pull up a stool and throw back a cold one.

Now delivering organic. Not the case a couple years ago.

Milk delivery is here! It's the little things in life isn't that make us smile.

Books, Books and Sequestered Nooks

2011-01-27T14:16:00.000-08:00

I may not be the mom who wants to play all the time, but I'm usually up for some reading. Don't ask me to sit around and play trains, I really don't want to. But, bring me a book and let's get cozy and read. It seems there's a lot of pressure for moms to play with their children all the live long day. When exactly are we supposed to prepare dinner and fold that laundry? Yep, these days it's play, play, play and have a list of activities for the kids when you are done playing. I'm all for spending time with my children, please don't get me wrong. I simply don't want to play with them all day. Some moms may get a kick out of playing trains, running around the playground, pretending to be a pirate, you name it. I admire your energy, truly. I'm the mom who likes to read. What are your favorite children's books?

All this reading is exhausting.

Who doesn't love the Bearnstein Bears?

Turning the pages with two babies on your lap is a challenge, but I think I've figured it out!

A book for all situations.

You've got to start reading when they are young! They still love "Hello Bee".

These books were daddies when he was a boy.

"What is it mom, I'm busy reading".

Sam with his selection of books.

Reading is reading whatever you read. Sam's first flight, getting all the information. Sam really likes to have information, always has.

One eye will do just fine.

"Ten Rubber Duckies" is one of Marin's favorites.

Books, books and sequestered nooks.

Great Grandpa Bradford reading to Sam.

Play Date Kid Project

2011-01-25T20:31:00.000-08:00

I found this crafty project on Clover Lane's blog, check her out. She is an inspiring mom. We have been having play dates and the little rascals can qet squirmy, loud and downright crazy! So on our last rainy day play date I put the monkeys to work on a little birdfeeder project. I would say this project ate up about thiry minutes...I'll take it! Breaking the time up for various projects, snacks and play is key to not loosing your mind on a play date. Finished Birdfeeder. Sam and I...okay actually I hung the feeders up the next afternoon. The large pincone was too heavy and fell behind a fence, but...maybe the birds like to snack on the ground. Free birdseed for any critter walking the fence.
Rolling the slathered peanut butter pinecone through the birdseed.

Spreading the peanut butter.

The supplies

Ready to get to work!

This is not only easy, it's cheap. Get it, cheap?

Birdseed, $1.99

Peanut Butter, $1.69

Pincones, backyard. These were in a bag in my garage.

Floral Wire, Stashed in my crap room. I mean craft room.

Post

2011-01-21T11:06:00.000-08:00

Have you ever noticed how many unique mailboxes there are in your neighborhood? Well, I did! . Who still writes good old fashion post? Now referred to as snail mail? I thought a post about post would be fun. Checking the mail is one of the highlights of my day. This first pic. is from a blog from which I cannot recall, sorry. My mailbox is nothing special, not photo worthy whatsoever. Do you have a unique mailbox, please share!

Playroom Post

Houseboat Post

(Sunset Magazine)

Verdigree Post

Barn House Post

Hedge Niche Post

Modern Post

Pottery Barnesq Post

Floral Post

Toile Post

Pint Sized Post

Fence Post

What to plant?

2011-01-10T13:31:00.000-08:00

Who's getting excited to plant their garden? What will you plant this year?

Greek Feast

2011-01-09T11:01:00.000-08:00

A fun family evening @ our home. We celebrated Uncle Steve's 32nd birthday by hosting a Greek feast. We enjoyed homemade falafel, grilled lamb kebobs, greek rice with feta, hummus and more. I got sidetracked once everyone sat down to eat so I neglected to photograph the people and the food. However, the twinkle lights and long table propose that a feast was about to commence.

DIY Utensil Caddy

2010-04-25T11:55:00.000-07:00

This is a total knockoff from another blog, "Rocky Bella". She has the best ideas! The only difference between her crafty can and mine is the fabric and font. I have been wanting a new caddy for my kitchen utensils forever. I took some fabric and hot glued it around a coffee can. Next I painted the No. 5 with some craft paint. I simply printed a font I liked and traced it onto black paper. And wa-la, a fresh new look for my counter.

Get Planting

2010-04-18T12:20:00.001-07:00

Peaceful Pansy

Welcome to Facebook

2010-04-18T12:20:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Facebook

Monogram Door Wreath

2010-04-16T08:12:00.001-07:00

Finally I finished a new wreath for our front door. This is a knockoff of "Morning T's" Monogram Wreath, so check out her blog to see her version. Thanks for the inspiration!

I simply wrapped a cardboard cutout with Jute, glued some Spanish moss, shells and hung the letter with some ribbon, done. I'm happy with it, simple and fun.

Vegetable Stock from Scratch

2010-04-08T15:54:00.000-07:00

I read about this great money saving kitchen tip on making your own stock. Save all those vegetable scraps you put in your compost. Instead, collect them in a half-gallon milk container and store in the freezer. When you have a couple of these full of veggie scraps make stock!

Simply slash open the boxes and place in a pot, add water, boil then simmer all day. Once it's done simmering for several hours strain with a sieve covered in cheesecloth. Don't forget to place an empty pot underneath to catch all that yummy broth. You're thinking, "duh", but I did forget but just for a second.

Free veggie stock, can you dig it? And you can compost the veggies even still. Talk about reuse and recycle!

Laundry Room Envy

2010-03-25T17:43:00.000-07:00

This is for Fingerprints on the Fridge. I hope this is the laundry room you were talking about. Sorry, don't know from which blog it came, but I think you do, share the credit if you will.

HELLO SPRING!

2010-03-09T08:54:00.000-08:00

Inspiratonal Project

2010-03-03T21:17:00.000-08:00

Isn't this chalkboard platter charming? Found this fun idea at The Creative Maven. I am now on the hunt for inexpensive patters or plates to give this project a try.

Dreams

2010-03-03T10:01:00.000-08:00

Dreaming about sunshine and the future on a winter's day.

Baby Food

2010-03-02T08:41:00.001-08:00

I love the vibrant colors of freshly made baby food. The little jars, the colors, the down home freshly made food, so great.

The Cakes!

2010-03-01T09:26:00.001-08:00

Because the cake(s) make the birthday!

2010-03-01T09:17:00.000-08:00

Birthday Fun

2010-03-01T09:12:00.001-08:00

Cakes, pinwheels, paper stars oh my!

Birthday Fun

2010-03-01T09:02:00.001-08:00

Sarah and Marin are now one year old. What a milestone for my girls. I think the most fun is the preparation. Baking their cakes conjured up memories of my mother and her love of baking. I have great old photos of all my chocolate birthday cakes from years past. I use the same classic Hershey recipe, just like mom. Just to mix it up I also made a pumpkin cake with cream cheese frosting which turned out so moist and yummy.

How fast a year goes by. It seems like the first year with the girls went so much faster than the first year of Sam's life. And now for the next birthday party to plan, Mr. Sam Pickle!

Daily Sugar

2010-02-23T08:32:00.000-08:00

Another day in the life of a sleepwalker. I think my positive attitude really helped yesterday as the day went well. Sam was mostly a lovely child to be around and I even finished a few decorations for the girls' birthday party this weekend. Can't wait to make their birthday cakes. Exercise did not make the cut, but I did organzie a new bulletin board I created inside a kitchen cabinet. I placed four cork squares inside a kitchen cabinet door so I could move some of the endless paperwork that ends up piled up on our counter. Not a novel idea, totally been done before, but that fact that I followed through with a project is so satisfing. Motivation!

2010-02-22T08:43:00.000-08:00

this needed to be posted larger, too cool

Breezy

2010-02-22T08:35:00.001-08:00

Okay, so what do you think of this lovely photo. Not mine, these nets are for sale @ West End, a very cool website/catalogue with sustainable material goods. This photo just grabs me. It's my image of the day.

Today, it's all breezy. Even though I'm terribly tired, girls up many times last night, I am going to have a breezy attitude, try and get outside for some fresh air, no yelling at Sam and just have a productive day.

Welcome to Facebook

2010-02-22T08:35:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Facebook

Gripes, Wipes, so she Types

2010-02-21T10:48:00.000-08:00

Went to a fortieth birthday party ta-ta-mi style. Dinner was lots of fun, but found my demeanor to be a bit surly. I am tired, cranky and need a serious re-charge. When asked how my kids are I responded with comments like, "He's a pain in the ass" and "I'm done!". Game plan is; more sleep, a layed out schedule, more exercise and infuse creativity. That's the goal. I'm guessing that list looks fairly similar for mothers everywhere, am I right? On a lighter note, some inspiring photos from a beautiful sunny day in the Pacific Northwest yesterday. I am such a sucker for inspiring images, but what to do with them? Aha! Post them to a blog.

Daily Sugar

2010-02-20T11:31:00.001-08:00

Today is a beautiful sunny day! Must try and get outside with the whole family. Went shopping for birthday presents for the girls yesterday and thought better of it. I mean they are turing one and everything I saw that might be fun...they already have a perfectly fine version. Silliness. I will focus on two fabulous cakes and good food for our guests. Organization is on my mind!

Welcome to Facebook

2010-02-20T11:28:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Facebook

Getting Started

2010-02-19T10:10:00.000-08:00

Where to begin. I wrote a few words yesterday, ya know to get goin' with this whole blogging thing. I'm tossed up about whether or not to have a creative/decor type blog or blog about my three little cupcakes. A.k.a my toddler son and three daughters. Oh, the lamenting, the proud moments the stories I have to share. I think they may be two separate blogs. Anyone care to comment? I'm having trouble just figuring out how to set my page and post my link elsewhere, i.e. facebook page. HELP!

Well, mini fires to put out and oh, yeah, should I get out of my p.j.s at some point? I know I'd feel better. At least all the children are dressed and ready for???? Do most moms have a plan for every day pre-school years? I'm tired.

Play Day

2010-02-18T15:45:00.000-08:00

Today was a great day! Beautiful sunshine on a winter's day filled with fresh air, friends and fun. If I can get my cupcakes outside it makes all the difference in the world. Thank God for friends to share the day. A walk in the park, playing on the playground, throwing rocks on the beach and I even got myself moving a little bit. The rest is gravy.