Dicey Jane Threads

Error, Error, Error

2012-01-18T15:39:00.000-08:00

Writing is not my strong point; beautiful, commanding, inspiring words don't come easy to me. This post (reader beware) is going to be erratic, possibly confusing, questioning, maybe a little deep...but please, bare with me please.

Today my heart was broken into tiny little fragments. I'm aching, shivering, sick, full of fear & doubt, questioning everything, searching, asking myself & God, over and over again...where did we go wrong? Why are we here? Where do we go now? I need answers, I want precise direction, I can't move forward without it.

My sweet, handsome, charismatic, intelligent, athletic, caring, loving, inspiring, son decided to travel a very dangerous path. He decided to choose popularity & vanity over wisdom & integrity. He chose the sinful delights this world offers up to us on silver platters and within seconds has shattered our very core. He has lost all cell privileges, his internet privileges, as well as any & all athletic activities. Without spilling my guts, and spewing my son's collapse all over the blogosphere...I can say that this evening my husband and I have to drive to a young man's home, people that we don't know, and share what we have discovered with these parents. It involves their son (as well as ours) and I have NO IDEA what the outcome will be...

My dead fingers are pounding out this heart-wrenching story; it is one of many: parents, struggling to deal with children who choose to go their own difficult way. We (parents) are living in guilt, fear, anger, sadness and desperation. The desperation is overwhelming. Right now, in this moment...I feel I could do ANYTHING to save my son! If only I knew...if only I knew...

In my minds eye, I see his face, his beautiful face, with a continuous blinking error message! WHAT??? What is the problem??? How can we fix it??? Where do we start??? Who do we call??? We thought we took care and did everything right...we love him, we pray, we follow all the directions we have, we set example, we talk to him, we encourage him, we love each other and our marriage is strong. How do we rewind??? We can't wipe it all clean, we can't trade him in for a new one, we can't live his life for him. Have we failed him??? I have no answers...

Survival...that's the mode I'm in...just treading, keeping my head above water. I'm weary and sore, not sure how I will get across this ocean of tears. How deep is my pain, deeper than I can bear.

I sent a text to my husband this afternoon while waiting to pick up our youngest from school. A friend posted it on Facebook and I've held onto it all day..."Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion, which cannot be shaken but endures forever" Ps 125:1

At this moment, that's all I can cling to...I just keep repeating it, again and again. It's all I have, my burden is heavy, so I MUST lay it down at my Savior's feet.

Quickie

2011-12-27T21:26:00.000-08:00

Just a little quickie...Christmas was wonderful! The ONLY thing that could have made it any better: having Bubby & Poppy here to celebrate with. I couldn't have wanted anything more, but the good Lord had other plans. They stayed in my beautiful WA and I stayed here in good ol' sunny CA. Next year though...I'm thinking it will be different, not sure how yet, but I JUST KNOW IT WILL BE!!!

New Years, it's right around the corner, so yeah, I'm trying to look a little more put together. Starting with the hair...

Here's the New Do: How do ya like?

Now...if I could just figure out how to get a new body to go with the cute hair??? I guess that will take some hard work and effort on my part. And no, I won't have it by New Years Eve (dang it!)

Here we go again, a new year and a new resolution...(same old resolution) just a new year I suppose. Keeping my fingers crossed this weight thing gets under control, before I become out of control! Here's to 2012 ladies...may the New Year bring you, HEALTH, HAPPINESS, AND CRAFTINESS!

Another Adventure

2011-12-18T07:24:00.000-08:00

Here I am...starting another adventure. Crazy, huh? Let me just say, no adventure=boring life...so I tell myself.

When we moved to CA, I decided to take care of my 4 nieces & nephew. My two brothers & their wives all work and I've always been a SAHM, so I thought easy-peasy, right? Taking care of the little ones should be a breeze? UHHH...no way, Jose! Not so! I have a new-found respect for child care providers & day care centers. HOW do you guys do it? I mean, I'm soooooooo past this stage in my life. I suppose you could look at it like this, as my 4 "J's" have grown & changed, so has their Mama! Through each stage in their lives, the Lord has transitioned me into a new chapter and it's really difficult to move backwards with the little ones (3, 4, 5, & 6yrs) Not to mention all the family drama that goes into, well, working with family! Not a good situation to say the least!

Fast forward, after weeks of contemplation, I've decided stop taking care of the "littles" and go to work in a salon. WHAT??? Crazy, unexpected idea, huh? Doing what, you ask? Nails...yes, I am a certified, licensed Manicurist. I've had my license for twelve years and I've NEVER worked a day in a salon. The story behind that decision, I decided to work out of my home (doing nails) to be there for the kiddos. (I won't mention the fact that I was utterly & completely terrified to go to work in a salon!)

I'm super nervous, but excited too! I haven't worked outside the home in 15 years...HOLY COW, I know! I do have a plan, sort of half-baked, but a plan none the less. I will only be working 3 days a week (like Tues. Thurs. and every other Sat.) If you work in the beauty biz, you HAVE to work Saturdays. Bummer, but that's the deal.

This is the ONE service that I'm totally psyched to offer my clients:

SHELLAC

This product is AMAZING! It goes on like polish, (lots of colors to choose from) and wears like acrylic. The natural nail is protected and strong, without the heaviness of acrylic. It takes minutes to apply and SECONDS to remove! I am in love...

Here is a shot of my nails...not a GREAT pic, but you get the idea. I added loose glitter to the tips in a fade. How do you like???

Here goes noth'n...I'm jumping in feet first, keeping my fingers crossed that my adventure will take me to new places and welcome me to new & exciting friends.

P.S. If anyone reading this, lives in the Kingsburg area, look me up...that's where I will be working!

Busy Bee

2011-12-13T09:08:00.000-08:00

Yep...I've been crocheting like a mad woman! Can't help it, I {HEART} crochet...this is what I'm making, aren't they cute? I'm selling them too! If you like them, shoot me an email and I'll make it happen. Any color in particular? Let me know, I have a MILLION different colors of yarn, so is it RED your thinking about, I've got it, GREEN...yep got that too :)

Later this afternoon, I'll be doing nails for my daughter's girlfriends. It's Winter Formal for the JR. High this Thursday...isn't that WACKO??? I mean, seriously...I feel like everything starts younger & younger, year after year! Call me crazy, but Winter Formals were for Juniors & Seniors in High School, right???! Well, ultimately as a parent it's my decision to let my kids attend, and we decided yes, they could go "J" 14 & "J" 12. I know, it's a little young, but I've chaperoned before and it's pretty low-key. I'm just keeping my fingers crossed these CA kids are like WA kids, and not TOO grown up yet.

This evening I get to spend a little girlfriend time with one of the sweetest friends in the world. What could top that, you ask? Meeting her here! Eggnog Latte, HERE I COME!!!

Hope your day is filled with Christmas spirit, and may you get everything accomplished you set out to do!

Just Post Already...

2011-12-09T21:56:00.000-08:00

As I was blog-stalking I realized I've been MIA for some time now (NOT NEWS, I KNOW!)...anyhoo, I stopped in to take a gander at the ol' blog & realized I have like a GAZILLION posts that I never published! LOL...

Ridiculous, I'm so passed those days...I should have just posted them already! However, I didn't and THAT'S that...moving along...

It's Christmas countdown and the decision has been made, this post will be all about a mosh-pit (thank you Amber for the expression) of stuff! A little bit of unimportant, a little bit of factual, a little bit of rant, a little bit of encouragement (a little something we could all use these days), so my dear one reader :) bear with my lame little blog post, alrighty?

I can't talk about Christmas without sharing my list, right? It's a doosey, just wait...

1. Move home to my beautiful PNW...oh how I miss you!

2. Maybe just a visit then??? Could you swing that, Santa?

3. Lose 50 lb's; PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEEEEEEEEASE

4. This AMAZING make-up, with the coolest name on the planet :)

5. How cool would this be to be cruising around on?

6. I found some GORGEOUS earrings from Paris, gotta have'em!

7. CD: Mummford & Sons

8. Red PJ's

9. Still wanting those fabulous Dansko boots from last years list

10. Can't wait to start reading The Night Circus

Not too much to ask for, ya think???? Dear Santa, make it happen...that's all I gotta say about the list.

Next up, MY top 10 Christmas Flicks:

1. Elf...I laugh EVERY time!

2. The Grinch, Jim Carrey...you are the BEST Grinch ever!

3. A Christmas Carol

4. It's a Wonderful Life

5. Polar Express

6. Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer

7. Santa Claus

8. Miracle on 34th St. (the original)

9. Fred Claus

10. Nightmare Before Christmas (I HEART Tim Burton)

Now that I got that out of the way, time to rant a little. Have you ever prayed and prayed for something so hard & so long the Lord finally says, "O.k. already...here ya go, don't come cry'n to me when you realize the error of your ways, ya brat!" (I know, he wouldn't really say that last bit, but that's what I would say to my kid) It happened to me, yep...the last 5 and half months I've realized God answered my prayers, not really because it was in His plan, but because His plan was to reveal to me that He had a much different idea in mind for the Watts family & I just wasn't going to have it. NOW I see it, NOW I wish I could go back, but I can't.

What I CAN do is ask God to forgive me for being selfish, spoiled, & stubborn. Ask him to continue to guide our family, be the Captain and steer us in the right direction. He is my hope and my comfort, my future and my desire. No task is too big, no miracle he cannot perform, no situation he cannot CHANGE! That's what I will leave you with on this cool, crisp, morning. Instead of Santa this Christmas, write out a list to Jesus and pour out your heart to him. He is your answer, He is your Miracle Man!

Life in random

2011-09-12T11:29:00.000-07:00

I miss her every minute of every day

Makes my heart go pitter-patter

I would give up a kid (or two) to jump inside this cup right now

Wishing this had been my contentment

Building a shop from the ground up

My beautiful white Wisteria, how I miss looking out my window at you

Possibly, my creative genius...mmmmm...cherries

This is what it's all about

New

2011-08-19T09:59:00.001-07:00

Yes..it's been forever. It doesn't really matter how long it's been, today I need to write something, say something, just put it down into words.

The beginning of July marked a new chapter in the Watts World. We left our home in WA and moved to CA to be close to family and a new job position (lighter stress load for Papa Bear). I'm miserable, I'm sad, I'm weak, I'm lonely, I'm angry, I'm unsure, I'm confused, I'm regretful, I'm frustrated, I'm scared, I'm sorry, I'm doubtful, I'm nervous, I'm stressed!!! There, I said it, now you know. Well maybe nobody knows...I don't have much of a blog following, but at least I got it out of me. I'm not pretending, I'm not holding hostage inside, and I'm admitting to sort of failure. Do I feel like a huge weight has lifted, No...do I feel any better, No...do I see a light at the end of the tunnel, not yet. What I do know is, only I can make it better, only I can see the opportunity before me, only I can be the example my kids need right now in this time of change. Easy to say...tremendously hard to accomplish.

How do I do this...I can't. I know I can't...but with the promises of God, my heavenly father...I know he gives me strength. I know he gives me direction, and I KNOW he forgives me my sins and my faults. He's leading me, even when I have no idea where I'm going. He's carrying me, even when I feel like I can't take another day. He's cheering me on, pushing me forward, holding me up. Thank you Lord, for doing what I can't...

Reading, reading, reading

2011-02-25T13:44:00.000-08:00

Just finished Water for Elephants, it was my pick for our very first book club read. At first, it was hard to get into, then it kind of became a "I need to read this", lastly...I was hooked. My gal-pal dived right in and loved it, she kept telling me...keep reading, you won't be able to put it down. She was right, it hit me, and couldn't stop reading. I definitely recommend reading it before you see the movie (even though, I believe Robert Pattinson & Reese Witherspoon are going to burn up the big screen together!) Books are always better, in my opinion.

I also finished reading The Dead Path, written by Stephen M. Irwin. It was spooky and kept me at the edge of my seat (or bed, I should say). I believe it's his first novel, well written, but a little hard to follow. Sort of a "hard" read is what I like to call it. Even though I found myself having to re-read certain sections, I was completely scared out of my mind reading it! If you like ghost stories, this would be a great one!

Now I'm on to The Blood Oath, written by Christopher Farnsworth. As I started out reading, I kind of rolled my eyes a little over the story concept. A vampire that is bound to the President of the United States for all the days he walks the earth??? Hmmm...yeah, not sure. However, as I continue to read, it's a fascinating story unfolding and I can't help but be intrigued. So, for now, I'm still reading...I'll keep you up to date...until then, keep reading!!!

I HEART Crochet

2011-02-16T22:02:00.000-08:00

Been busy...with lots of crochet!!! Here is the beanie that I'm working on, just learned the puff-stitch, and I'm going to town on it. Everything puff-stitch...scarves, flowers, hats, possibly a blanket? The possibilities are endless...

Space Cadet

2011-02-08T19:30:00.000-08:00

That is what I am...for the last 2 weeks, I've forgotten to post my Sunday Love's...how lame can I get? Stick around, you'll find out sooner or later how bad it really is. I guess that means I have to double up on the list, huh? That's o.k...I think I can manage. I'm feel'n really lovey, you would know that if you've read my last post :)

1. Papa Bear has been preaching at church, and he really is loving every moment of it, so am I!

2. The crocheted projects that I've been completing...it makes me smile.

3. The new Weight Watcher Points Plus program is working for me, and I've lost 13.8 pounds so far!

4. I'm in Love with the stack of books next to my bed...I checked out 12 Lovely library books.

5. These boots are on my wish list...I'm definitely Loving them....

6. I really Love Skinny Cow ice cream sandwiches :)

7. My really sweet friends chose our gang to hang out with on Super Bowl Sunday!

8. I Love that I've stayed caught up on the laundry for a few days now (it's kind of like a miracle!)

9. The 4 "J"s brought home lots and lots of A's...so very proud of them!

10. My mom...she just amazes me, and I hope one day, I'll grow up to be just like her.

11. The mantel all full of Valentiney stuff.

12. I Love the smell of Papa Bear early in the morning, (all squeaky clean) when I'm still cozy in bed and he leans over me with a big goodbye kiss.

13. I Love the comment I got from a long-time ago friend on FaceBook...it really put a hop in my step.

14. This one I'm not so sure I should share, but...I'm really Love'n the fact that competition cheer is over and I can finally rest a little...

There they are, my 14 Love's...what are yours?

Be mine, Valentine

2011-02-04T14:24:00.000-08:00

OK...so I really got into Valentines Day this year. I know....some of you gals out there are rolling your eyes right about now. You just don't see why we should celebrate this day, it's the spawn of commercialism, right? Another frivolous holiday? Silly to even recognize it?

Let's just calmly discuss this topic, shall we? To begin with, I will give a you a list of why I like to celebrate and recognize Valentines Day...

1. First, and foremost...it's all about Love...and we all know what "Charity" means, right? (so why wouldn't a girl with a name that means Love not celebrate the holiday that surrounds Love?)

2. It's the one day out of the whole year, that I can be as lovey-dovey, stary-eyed as I want to be with Papa Bear...and none of the 4 "J"s get grossed out.

3. Papa Bear is kind of a romantic, and on Valentines Day he al

ways sweetly surprises me in special little ways or sometimes big, exciting ways!

3. It's all about the red & pink, what's not to like about those amazing, girly colors?

4. Never (in my book) can there ever be too many holidays that involve chocolate, these days I need a special occasion to eat it since I've embarked on WW.

5. Making fun memories, no matter what it involves, for my kiddos is one of the MOST important things I do as a Mom.

6. It never has to be about gifts, it's the memories that count. Like the first year Papa Bear & I were married, he brought home 2 new decks of playing card because he knew how much I LOVE playing Nerts!

7. Who doesn't like to have another "Date Night"? They're too far and in between as it is...can I get an Amen?

8. Great reason to buy new nighties ;)

9. There's so many people in our lives that we forget to tell them how much we care, how much we appreciate them, how much we LOVE them...it's the perfect day to express all those feelings and more. (I'm not saying we shouldn't do that each and every day, but honestly...do you?)

10. Lastly, it's really all about what's in your heart, not stuff, not candy, not romantic notions...but it is all about this: 1Corinthians 13:4-8, go read it...it will do your heart some good

Just a peek at my Lovely mantel...and some sweet craftyness

Currently, on my list

2011-01-28T13:01:00.001-08:00

Ok...so here it is, I finally decided to post it. I wrote this and then backed out of posting it...dumb, I know. Why was I so silly about it, I guess I was making sure I at least started some of these resolutions and not look like a great big loser.

Instead of posting Currently, on my list, I wrote something back at the begining of the month and it read like this Realistic. Along the same lines as this post, but just a little less in depth. Anyhoo...here's my original post that I should of just posted:

codylthomas

Resolutions...I've never took them seriously. I've never really even spoke one out loud (that I can remember anyway). That being said, I want 2011 to be different. I want to actually set some things in motion, make some decisions, find some ambition, follow through (not quit, thats one pattern I DO follow) and hopefully get some amazing results (not asking for much, I know!)

I have a tendency to sit around (a lot!) moan, groan, procrastinate, whine, and not accomplish much. LET'S break the cycle...can I get an AMEN! I've stacked up a list of projects, ideas, and goals that have cycled through my creative halo (horns?) for the past year. Of course I shelve them all, way up there in the back corner to collect draggy dust. HELLO, Dolly...it's a new year, new time, a new direction! Take a looky-lu at a few of my New Year aspirations...

1. Learn how to use my Macbook Pro, Papa Bear bought me a one on one membership along with my laptop...and I seriously need to go in for a class.

2. I've become a slacker, a slug, a little too lax-a-daisy...in other words: LAZY. In many area's of my life...my physical self, my house, my hobbies, my marriage. So, I'm on the hunt for some major motivation (any good council on this subject will be greatly appreciated)

3. Learn how to use my camera. What an amazing birthday gift (from Papa Bear) and I still can't even get a good, Canon picture! Sheesh...

4. Somehow, someway learn how to dress. I have an image of myself, and I want to define part of who I am through style, the kind of style that expresses my personality. Because of my weight gain over the last year, I've lost the ability to put anything remotely acceptable together from my wardrobe. It's positively devastating to my self esteem presently...

5. Get my sewing/office room organized. It's an ever-growing affliction on my ability to create or do anything productive. A revolving door of sorts. I begin to straighten/organize, feel good, get distracted...begin to sew. Never finish, truly finish, make another GIGANTIC mess, cannot begin another project because of the chaotic disarray. This goal sort of leads into the my next grandiose idea...

6. Sort/Budget/Organize my financials. I have bills, papers, statements, receipts piled EVERYWHERE! I cannot, for the life of me, get this CRAP organized. Feeling so overwhelmed is an understatement. It's ONE of the TWO reasons, I can't seem to get our finances straightened out. (#2 reason, I'm a procrastinator...but we won't discuss that, since I'm desperately trying to overcome that!)

7. Finish my quilt from 2010 Not Your Mama's Quilt club. I love it, especially all the different women who took time each month to put squares together and be part of the special group Marci and I put together.

8. Make a new duvet cover for my bed using this tutorial...I heart Anthropologie

9. Get serious and help "J" 1 prepare for college. He will be a senior next year...HOLY COW!!!
Something's not adding up, I cannot possibly old enough to have a college student!!!??? REALLY???

10. Exercise...regularly. Try like 3x a week. I HAVE to do it, and believe it or not...I've started. Thanks for hang'n in there with me gf :)

***Update: I have started Weight Watchers, lost 10+ lbs., started & finished many projects, made some $$$, initiated a Women's Retreat at our church, and started taking more photos! Yes...I can proudly say I am on my way...

New things

2011-01-23T18:33:00.000-08:00

Things I've made, but haven't got around to blogging about...in random order:

Beautiful Vintage Buttercup bag

Some fun scrappy fabric flower pins

A summertime bag, with scrappy flowers

Bloom'n Headband/Warmer
Lots of Bloom'n Hats...

Best Chocolate Chip cookies ( in the world! )

Peanut Butter Snicker-bar Cookies...Ultimate cookie goodness!

My 1st ever! crocheted fingerless gloves

A couple of Simple Tote bags

Time to move on to some new ideas...ya think?

Sunday Love...

2011-01-23T18:16:00.000-08:00

Jeeeeez...I knew I would forget! I completely spaced out last Sunday and didn't post my Sunday Loves, that's a super big bummer because this Sunday...I'm not feel'n much love at all. I know, what a drag, but that's reality :( Here's a few things that I've managed to scrape up...things I couldn't live without...

1. My glitter eyeliner by Urban Decay...I seriously could not live without it. EVERYTIME I wear it, I get compliments.

2. Our new Espresso bar at church, I get an awesome drink EVERY SINGLE SUNDAY!

3. The library...when I'm feel'n "oh-so-blah" I scoot right on down to the library and find me some good reads, that always brightens my day!

4. My hands, and fingernails. There's not much about myself that I can compliment on, but I do have nice hands.

5. I love that no matter how much of a grump I am today, Papa Bear has still managed to kiss and hug on me.

6. I finished a project in just a couple of hours, using Papa Bear's old sweater he was donating to the Goodwill. ( cute little shoulder sling )

7. I love that tomorrow is a new day...

How about you, love anything today???

Sunday Love...

2011-01-09T07:31:00.000-08:00

I'm so looking forward to church today...just seeing everyone, visiting, drinking coffee from our "new" espresso cafe, & worshiping God. How much better can you get? Not much, I think...

1. I love going to watch the Seahawks...my first pro game EVER! And we kicked butt...thanks Papa Bear for asking me to go with you!

2. I love my Starbucks insulated cup with the red & white stripped straw...I take it everywhere with me.

3. I love visiting with my Nanny...even though I'm not getting anything else done, I'm enjoying the time I have with her.

4. I love roast beef Subway sandwiches...they are low in Weight Watcher points and tasty, too!

5. I love that I got all my hats and purses posted on Facebook. (Now I just need to get them in my Etsy shop!)

6. I love watching all the kids I know grow up into beautiful young people.

7. I (secretly) love that it may snow this week...that means the kiddos get to stay home with me!

Papa Bear really HATES the snow...it seriously stresses him to the brink, so I have to keep my wishes on the downlow...sssssssh!

Realistic

2011-01-03T07:31:00.000-08:00

OK...I wrote a "New Year" post and I haven't published it...yet. I'm not really sure why not, except that I don't want to set myself up for failure. I'm aware that we learn when we fail, but let me just say that right now, my state of mind and well being does not need another lesson.

What I need is some accomplishment, no matter how small. I need progress, I need to feel good.

On that note, my "realistic resolution" is to be consistent and stay focused on my exercise routine no matter the circumstances surrounding me. I DO NOT WANT TO QUIT!!! I do not want this to be like the bazzilion other goals in the past. I want to be consistent, and make a life change. My prayer is, and will continue to be..."Lord, reveal the small victories in my life, show me the progress, give me the strength to keep on keep'n on".

Today is a new day, and new year...lets see where it leads me?

Sunday Love...

2011-01-02T21:57:00.000-08:00

Today I love the people around me. For sure, God has blessed me with amazing, kind, understanding, caring people...and I love them. Truly

Papa Bear, the 4 "J's", my neighbor, my fellow sister in Christ, they made my day just when I thought it was a goner.

1. I Love Lentil soup...it's so tasty :)

2.I LOVE that "J" 1 isn't embarrassed to kiss his mama in front of people, even though he's 17yrs old now :D

3. I Love that "J" 3 wanted me to watch her new "favorite" show with her...came downstairs three times asking me to hurry, I want to sit with you and watch it!!!

4. I Love that Bubby & Poppy are coming home soon and bringing Nanny with them :D

5. I Love the book "J" 1 and "J"2 gave me at Christmas...I finished it!

6. I Love what Pastor Sean preached on today...are you going to straddle the bar & play it safe or balance, trust and step out in faith?

7. I Love how Papa Bear came home today after church and made one of the best lunches EVER!

My 7Sunday love's...how about you?

Important Lazy Days...

2010-12-29T13:45:00.001-08:00

Yep, I'm busy, busy...busy doing nothing, that is.

Enjoying Christmas vacation with the 4 "J's" and the time Papa bear has taken off work.

But, I will soon get back to my love, my love of sewing and everything crafty :)

My sweet "J" 3 took this picture of me right before Christmas, she's not a bad photographer...in fact she REALLY enjoys getting behind the lens when I allow her the camera! Ultimately her passion lie's behind the video camera...Santa brought her a Flip, and she has filmed incessantly since Christmas morning! I'm thinking of having her guest blog...my gf La Te Da let her daughter share on her blog, and I loved the idea of it. We'll see if she's even interested one day...

Till then, it's just me, plain ol' me, and the nonsense I can ramble on about.

I've found some great inspiration while enjoying my staycation...I can't wait to get busy and share with ya what I've been up to...till then,

Hope you had a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Sunday love

2010-12-26T15:35:00.000-08:00

I was laying in bed, in my comfy robe thinking about all the things I love today...maybe I should start my own Sunday love list? Could I keep up with it, hmmm...probably not, but why not give it a try? I'll never know if I don't try.

1. I love that I'm laying in bed, next to Papa bear blogging on my new Mac!!!!

2. I love that Papa bear gets to rest, we get to be together...at least for the next day or two.

3. I love going to church and worshiping my creator whose blessed me beyond measure.

4. I love that the 4 J's aren't fighting today...they've been playing happily much of the day.

5. I love that sometimes my dreams do come true.

6. I love drinking Salted Caramel Mocha's from Starbucks.

7. I love that one of my friends asked me to start walking with her, just that she thought to ask me made me feel really good :)

These are my 7 Sunday love's...for today, anyway!

Sentimental Christmas

2010-12-16T16:09:00.000-08:00

Feeling very sentimental this Christmas...

I can't get anything really down in "Blog" format...you know, something that's really interesting and clever to write. I can barely do my daily routine, but I have been listening to some of my favorite Christmas Classics and I just thought I would share with you what's been fueling my fire(barely smoldering coles, truthfully) through this Christmas season...

Burle Ives...who does not love that old Snowman?

Nat King Cole, The Christmas Song

Eartha Kitt, Santa Baby...

Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree, Brenda Lee

Bing Crosby...Silent Night

Frank Sinatra, Ol' Blue Eyes himself...Jingle Bells

Hope your having a blessed and merry Christmas season...

My Papa

2010-12-05T16:22:00.000-08:00

My Papa, my hero passed away Dec. 1, 2010...this is for him

Pop- I love you and I miss you…already. I want to thank you for being the man, the husband, the father, the grandfather, the friend you were to us, but most of all I want to thank you for sharing Jesus with me. I LOVE how you LOVED him. You knew him, I mean REALLY knew him, you spent time with him each morning and reading the Word of God. You served him faithfully and he was your friend. In my heart, even though it’s heavy and sad, it is bursting with joy knowing your home with our savior.

I remember so well all the many times I would ask you, “Hey Pop, how are ya?” And you would say…with out skipp’n a beat, “Kid…if I was doing any better, I couldn't stand it!” I know, with out any doubt, you could not be doing any better this very moment! Thank you Jesus.

I remember so, so many things that I want to thank you for, here are just a few...

Thank you for being strong, so very strong. Thank you for being joyful and singing out loud. Thank you for laughing, and joking all the time. Thank you for being the BEST joke teller in world. Thank you for taking me with you to change the water in the vineyard. Thank you for letting me drive the tractor. Thank you for dancing with me. Thank you for letting us make club houses all over that ranch. Thank you for giving all us grand kids the ranch to play, and run, and grow up on. Thank you for letting me sleep in your bed with you & Nanny all the way up until I was 10 years old. Thank you for singing Froggy Went a Court’n and bouncing me on your knee. Thank you for always taking me to Sunday school. Thank you for giving me wonderful Uncles and an Aunt; I especially thank you for giving me my mother Jackie. Thank you for saving all your Pop bottles and letting us round’em up to turn in for more Sody waters ( that would be Dr. Peppers for those who are not familiar with Pops talk). Thanks for taking me to the Rescue Mission and teaching me about caring for others that have no one else to care for them. Thank you for taking me with you to dig worms on the dairy. Thank you for Mammoth Pools…and all the many years of camping. Thank you for all your stories, and your childhood memories that you shared with me so generously. Lastly, thank you for loving me so much, so much that you made sure I knew Jesus and that he was my savior. This is not a goodbye Papa…this is my see you soon, because I know I will see you again and we will dance all over heaven together. I love you

Charity

Wish List

2010-11-29T09:51:00.000-08:00

It's that time again...making a list & check'n it twice, all that jazz. The kiddos have presented their Christmas lists, all I can say is: OUT OF CONTROL!!! They have lost their minds...I'm hoping to help them regain their sanity, maybe just bring them back to reality a tad. (If possible?)

Along those thoughts...wondering where they got those insane wish lists...here's just a few things that I would like Santa to put under the tree for lil' ol me :)

1. MacBook Pro, 3 very close friends have went Mac and the word is...you never go back! I'm READY to go Mac!
2. Dansko boots: Penelope...I think they would look fabulous on my feet...just say'n

3. I'm not much into Ed Hardy...but when I got a whiff of this perfume...instantly in Love!

4. This sweater from Anthro would keep me oh so toasty & warm, not to mention most stylish...

5. If Santa is feeling generous...it would be nice to have the option of coat or sweater, right? I've been spying this beauty:

6. I don't have one of these...yet, I'm thinking a stocking stuffer?

7. I love music...this would be my pick, Youth Novels by Lykke Li

8. Don't judge...I can't help it, I'm obsessed

9. This book looks great...hope I find it under the tree :)

10. This fabric, Nest by Valori Wells in Autumn would be a dream...

Keep in mind this is just my WISH list...that's what I keep telling the 4J's anyhow. It's all about the dreaming right, not always getting! Merry (early) Christmas ladies...God bless you and your families!

Christmas Widow

2010-11-23T07:55:00.001-08:00

FedEx Logo
Originally uploaded by ytoabn

As Thanksgiving rolls around, I become a Christmas widow...yet I'm thankful for FedEx. Yes, it's been a struggle at times, in the last 15 years watching my husband climb the cooperate ladder, but rewarding too. He's become a strong leader, intelligent decision maker, and a definite problem solver. He's dedicated to his family, which has made him a loyal employee to FedEx. God blessed him with amazing character traits such as honesty and integrity, as well as perseverance. I am proud to be his wife...

Thank you God for my husband, his work ethic, and the amazing company that he works for.

Somedays...

2010-11-22T13:49:00.000-08:00

Today is just one of those days...yet, I'm still thankful. My youngest, well, she's hard to describe. School is not her thing, she would rather stay home all day, every day. She will do all the reading, writing, numbers that I ask her to, but leave...go to school, now that's a different story. This year has been better, it's getting easier on her, she has a great teacher, great friends, not to mention she's growing up a little. However, today was a substitute teacher day, and it was a famous MELTDOWN MONDAY. So...choosing to pick my battles, I let her stay home. It's ok, if it's only once in a while, right? It's been nice...just me and her. Cuddling on the couch, watching Christmas movies...drinking coffee/hot chocolate. It started to snow around noon, she wanted to play a little so she threw on her rain boots, sweats and headed out the door. I love her...she's my "odd little duck" as we call her and I thank God he blessed our family with her...

Something new

2010-11-17T07:56:00.001-08:00

Starbucks
Originally uploaded by Louis Abate

I was introduced to a new drink yesterday...Chai Apple Cider! It was so good...sweet, spicy, tangy, and hot...I never new what I was missing out on. I can only do a 12oz...it's pretty intense, but oh so worth it. Thanks Ashley for the introduction. I will be ordering a Chaider more often!

Random List

2010-11-15T10:29:00.001-08:00

I DID'NT EVEN WANT TO KNOW 1 RANDOM THING ABOUT YOU
Originally uploaded by busyPrinting

Too bad, here goes...I'm going to give you a random list of things about me:

1. My parents married when I was three...for the first two years of life with my Dad, I called him Richard...I wouldn't call him "dad".

2. Dr. Pepper and Doritos are my absolute favorite junk food.

3. I'm really not an animal person AT ALL...not that I'm mean to them or anything, I just don't like them all that much (and I own a Maltese/Pomeranian mix, go figure)

4. The older I get, the harder it is for me to eat other people's cooking...why is that?

5. I struggle with my weight, eating right, and exercise.

6. I really WANT to be artistic, but I don't think I am.

7. I can honestly tell you that I truly feel like my husband and I have a "One of a Kind Love".

8. Never, NEVER did I plan on having kids...and I now have 4 at age 36.

9. Listening to Led Zeppelin really puts me in the mood...

10. If I could, I would higher a personal shopper because I have no idea how to dress myself.

Youthfullness

2010-11-13T09:19:00.000-08:00

WOW!...Double WOW, can you believe it Amber...I blogged twice in row!!! What got into me, yeah...well...this did. Had to share it with you (my one and only reader). I thought it was fantastic and it made me feel the youth inside me again, if only for a day...but that's what life's all about, right? Seizing the moment, and letting everything just be what it is...

Even though I'm older, settled, and a bit routine...I hope I never lose that bit of magic and wonder inside of me. Don't let life drain it out of you, it will you know...if you let it.

Right around the corner

2010-11-12T07:24:00.001-08:00

Vintage Christmas
Originally uploaded by thejoyof

Can you believe Christmas (MY VERY FAVORITE!) is right around the corner? I keep thinking about it and it just makes me giddy with anticipation! I feel like the love of Christ and for Christ deepens around the time of year that we celebrate his birth, which in turn, flows out of me. Well...that is my hope and prayer anyway. I'm especially excited this year, because my family is doing some different (special) things for Christmas this year. Can't wait to share with you what it is, but I am going to hold off until it actually happens. Yep, I am going to keep this secret...bet your wondering, huh? Don't be irritated with me, just think of it as having to wait until Christmas to open your present.

I've been a busy lady lately (when am I not?) and a sweet (newish) friend of mine has decided to step in and work along side me with Dicey Jane Threads. She and her family moved into our neighborhood last February or March...can't remember. Anyhow, we met each other at the bus stop and we've been friends ever since. What I found out eventually is she LOVES to sew, too! How cool is that? So, not only do we each have a GANG of kids...we both love to create things! So, I should say WE'VE been busy, sewing and creating. We've done a couple of Holiday Bazaar's and it's been a blast just being out together and meeting new people! Here's a little snapshot of me and my new partner in crime...it's not a great shot, but I new we would be great friends when she told me how she was obsessed with Twilight, JUST LIKE ME!!!! That's where we are in this photo...standing outside in the cold, waiting to go see Eclipse!

We're keeping our fingers crossed that we can get some of our new stuff entered into the Etsy shop, but it hasn't happened yet, hopefully in the next week or two you can check in and find some super cute things!

I came across the vintage photo up above on Flickr and it was a perfect description of all my Christmas love...enjoy!

Imperfect

2010-11-04T13:45:00.000-07:00

Listen up...this is going to be a different, imperfect kind of blog post. I've been visiting this blog...reading it, digesting it...and it's making me think...in a BIG way. I get so tired of trying to be things I'm not (I know I've said all this before, sorry) but for some reason reading this blog has turned a light bulb on in my head. Not that this girl is so insightful, or deep...just that she is so REAL that it makes me want to be real like that. Real in everything I do, from my blogging all the way to my faith and what I believe. This young girl is allowing God to shine through her, and in turn, God is shining through to me. He's been speaking to me, not in a "Bruce Almighty" kind of way, but in a quiet, spiritual kind of way. I cannot, MUST not take this life for granite. It's a gift, my children, my husband, all the blessings that surround me is to be cherished and enjoyed. I don't want to sit back anymore thinking of all the things that could be or should be, why isn't it or why is it...I just want to be content in the knowledge that my significance is in Christ, he created me, knows who I am, and LOVES me in spite of everything. With all that being said...I revel in the fact that he has given me a passion and love of sewing that I like to share here on my blog. It's a creative outlet for me always...and I hope to continue to try and post about it here on my blog. Lately I haven't shared much, not because I haven't been busy, just because I rarely take the time to photograph anything, and it seems like such a hassle when that really is the last thing I want to be doing. I will try and share a few of my latest projects with you soon! One last little note...I guess the reason I titled this post as imperfect is I didn't re-read everything, check punctuation, or use descriptive words. I didn't take 2 hours to write it...I didn't stress out over a photo to post...I just sat down and wrote what was in my heart. So that will be it...words from my heart, my life...nothing fancy or perfect.

Listen Up

2010-10-05T17:22:00.000-07:00

Why yes, I am a Twilight fan...and yes, I do HEART Edward. In fact I would consider myself one of those Moms...yeah, the Twilight moms. I know, it's sad...but true. With that out of the way, I'm here to tell you some big news! (hence Mr. Hottie Rob Pattinson with the megaphone)

Ms. Timi is hosting Ruffles & Rust an amazing vintage market Oct. 22 & 23...with fabulous vendors! I highly suggest you all (2) attend! Head on over to Come Junk With Us to get your tickets...you WILL not be dissappointed! Me and Rob promise!

What have I been up to?

2010-09-29T14:45:00.000-07:00

* Oh...let me tell you...

* The new school year has started, "J" 7 is in second grade this year...so far, so good. "J" 11 & "J" 12 are in Middle school...what a trip that has been. Last, but not least "J" 16 is junior in H.S...need I say more?

* We serve our church. We lead service on Wednesday nights called Life Trek...it's a full ((free)) dinner at 6pm, then we break out in discussion groups-children through adults. There's something for everyone, I've have taken on the kitchen and feeding people...anywhere from 90-120 people every Wednesday. It's keeping me quite busy!

* Our oldest "J" 16 is driving...we bought him his first car. I STRESS a lot when he's out on the road (which is often these days) . He also has a new girlfriend...I don't think I'm accepting this as well as I thought I would.

* I volunteer every Monday at the Middle school on lunch hour and every Friday for a reading class. For the Elementary school, I have volunteered for Book Fair and the Walk-A-Thon. I'm tired...just a little

* We have a young lady at church who is having her second baby...a little girl. I wanted her to have lots of pink pretties to put her in so I threw her a baby shower. It was a blast...I would do it again in a heart beat!

* My guy, well he's the defensive lineman coach for "J" 12's football team, the Pirates. They are gone 3 nights a week for 2 hours of practice...we girls on the other hand have cheer practice, yes, that's right they are Pirate cheerleaders!!! YAY!!!!! We also have cheer practice twice a week...

*Lastly, my little "J" 7 is very much an introvert. She's never wanted to do anything but be at home, with Mom & Dad. That all changed this year...she decided she wanted to try girl scouts. Sooooo...we now have our Brownie meeting twice a month.

My creative, crafty self is lost somewhere in the shuffle...I'm hoping to come across it soon. I'm thinking of looking for it on a shelf somewhere...at least that's what my good friend Tres Birds suggested :)

Where am I

2010-09-27T12:39:00.000-07:00

Simplicity...yeah, I need some. Anyone know where I can find it?

I haven't blogged since April and was actually entertaining the thought of closing my account. I really, really am not that interesting and I'm always beating myself up because I can't keep up the charade of being interesting.

I know, I know, just be myself...well that's kind of the problem. I've run out of "self" lately. I'm not coping well with motherhood, wifeing, friendship, serving, and everything else I throw myself into. When you spread out so thin, it's hard to be good at anything. So why do I do it???? Why does any woman do it???? That is the million dollar question isn't it?

I think it's a constantly changing reason to be honest with you. Sometimes I think we want to feel significant , perhaps other times just trying to live up to certain expectations we put on ourselves.

I know right now, this very moment the reason behind me having no "self" is that I feel like doing and being all I can possibly be will bring me joy and contentment. Hmmm...let me just say, it's not working out like I though it would! I really, really don't know what I'm doing, but I feel like if I try to stop juggling everything...all my spinning saucers will come crashing down and I'll have a major mess to clean up. I really don't want to clean anything right now.

I kind of just want to walk away, ya know? Like some sort of individual vacation...does that make me a selfish wife/mother/friend/Christ follower? I'm sorry if it does, I don't want to feel this way...but it's just not going away...these restless, tiresome feelings. Feelings of craziness, inadequacy, bewilderment...

I suppose I know in my heart that this too, shall pass...I just don't want to endure it any longer . I just want to go on, living life...simply living life.

Update

2010-04-21T06:38:00.001-07:00

Finished!! The hanging Rose Ball is complete...it's so cute, don't ya think? Now to finish the red & aqua roses...

Who Blogs, You Blog?

2010-04-17T21:02:00.000-07:00

Uh-huh...partially, I do blog. When I sit down and be still long enough to fire up that thing we call a brain, I can scribble out something half way decent.

You know...I always have these terrific ideas, quirky little stories, awkward situations that I promise myself I will blog about, but I find I'm always getting side tracked. Does that ever happen to you? The side-track thing? I mean, my good intentions are always there, but the "get' er done" mentality...not so much. Not to mention, sometimes when you have 4 kids, they tend to suck the life right out of you, does any of this sound familiar to you?

I wish I could be one of those uber"bloggity" bloggers, the ones with all their eggs in row, all their crap together, but bless her heart...that's not me. I'm the hit- n- miss blogger, the one that will share something really deep and important, then check out for months at a time. Or I could sew up a storm, post some really cute creations, and next thing you know burn out sets in and I can't even think about jotting out a post.

LOL...now that I write it all out...sounds like a bunch of sorry excuses for sure! I think it's time I take more time to show a little blog love, don't you? Ramblings of a confused, sometimes ditzy part-time blogger...

Here's what I'm working on for the year, my sister-n-law Marci & I decided to start a virtual quilting circle, Not Your Mamas Quilt Club. It's been soooo much fun! She had Jan, I had Feb, so on and so forth. I can't tell you how excited I am over this quilt top...now if I can just get it finished! Here it is...what do ya think?

Needed

2010-04-17T20:32:00.000-07:00

My craft/sewing/office room was in desperate need of storage. We have everything in this room...I mean everything! So I decided I needed shelving...I couldn't get any more cabinets in there unless I hung them, so I went on a search. The search for a solution to my overcrowded, unorganized messy "Busy" room. What did I find...you wanna know, don't you? O.k., o.k...I'll share...

First I decided to make something instead of purchasing. Yes, it was much cheaper than ordering them through Pottery Barn or Ballard Design. How did I manage that you wonder? Cause I'm not real handy with a hammer & nails, ya know...

Ah-Ha! I found this fabulous tutorial on how to make beautiful, amazing cafe shelves...and let me just say, this gal is pretty nifty. She really spells it all out for you, (assuming your like me, a little ditsy in the carpentry department)...and nothing makes a tutorial easier to follow than PICTURES!!! Thank you Traci :) I haven't really commented on her blog yet, mostly because I just started visiting it, but she rocks! I love scrolling through all of her crafty, neat projects...not to mention all the links others post on her DIY projects. Jump on over there and take a looky for yourself, you might just get inspired.

Anyhow here's snapshots of my DIY project...and may I just say, I think they turned out perfectly!

The Materials:

Ready to Paint:

Black Satin...of course:

Ta-Da...all done!

Bad, bad blogger

2010-04-14T21:47:00.000-07:00

Yes that's me...very bad blogger. Time, it is not my friend...

And yes...I did get the smile and nod today when I told my perfect circle that I was a bad blogger. They know...life it just gets in the way...all to often. So here's to you gals...in my perfect circle, this blog is for you!

This is my little craft I've been fiddling with for the last 2 weeks since my sewing machine is in the shop getting a much needed tune-up. You can find the cool little tutorial at House of Smith's

Hopefully...when I get done, if I ever get done...they will look like these:

No Toddlers here, but still....

2010-03-25T08:01:00.000-07:00

I found this little poem over here at Under the Sycamore and I thought it was just perfect! I'm so glad I stumbled upon it, I think so I could share it with my 2 (maybe 3 readers) LOL! Enjoy Mama's...

If You Give A Mom A Muffin

If you give a mom a muffin,

she’ll want a cup of coffee to go with it.

She’ll pour herself some.

Her three year old will spill the coffee.

She’ll wipe it up.

Wiping it up she’ll find dirty socks.

She’ll remember she has to do laundry.

When she puts the laundry in the washer,

she’ll trip over boots and bump into the freezer.

Bumping into the freezer will remind her

she has to plan for supper.

She will get out a pound of hamburger.

She’ll look for her cookbook.

The cookbook is setting under a pile of mail.

She will see the phone bill which is due tomorrow.

She will look for her checkbook.

The checkbook is in her purse

that is being dumped out by her two year old.

She’ll smell something funny.

She’ll change the two year old’s diaper.

While she is changing the diaper the phone will ring.

Her five year old will answer and hang up.

She’ll remember she wants to phone a friend for coffee.

Thinking of coffee will remind her

that she was going to have a cup.

And chances are… if she has a cup of coffee

her kids will have eaten the muffin that goes with it.

– author unknown

Have a Thankful Thursday...

My week...

2010-03-18T10:57:00.001-07:00

125/365 (overwhelmed)
Originally uploaded by papercutoutdesign

Yep...that's me at this very moment

A Success!

2010-03-07T21:01:00.000-08:00

Yes, oh yes it was a huge success in my book...The Collection, a vintage inspired Flea Market! What an incredible event Timi coordinated...I can honestly say that lady can really throw down a party! She had lots of good help too (one of them being my guy on Parking duty, Sat morning) as well as WSU Laura , Shannon, Michele, Charlene, Jay, and her mom & dad...I'm sure the list could keep going but I'm so new to her circle, I couldn't possibly keep up with all of her friends! Now I know why so many people love this sweet gal, she has an unbelievable ability for connecting people, not only to herself, but each other too. I just can't get over how easy she made it all look. Hats off to you Timi Girl ...you out did yourself!

Defining this weekends success, well that's a great question. Of course, the obvious...making a little $$$ doing something I absolutely love, but more than that...WAY more than that...meeting so many amazing, wonderful, creative, generous, beautiful, intelligent women, and having them invite me into their love affair of JUNK! Not only did I meet wonderful new ladies who snagged up my creations...I was able to visit with some fun gals I'd had the pleasure of meeting on the last Come Junk With Us bus. It was such a whirlwind of fun...it seems it was over in a flash, and I can't wait for the next one to come around. Lots of work...yes, a little overwhelmed...YES, was it all worth it...YOU BETCHA!

I had so many ladies helping me out, I can't thank them enough, but as always Bubby went above and beyond. She put her creative mind to work and designed a beautiful little booth for me with whatever was laying around. I'm still amazed by her clever ideas and individual style. Thank you Mom for all you do...those words will never be enough, but I'm positive you know how much I appreciate ALL you do for me! I would not be the woman I am today without your advice, support, encouragement, and most of all the creativity you passed along to me.

Here are some snapshots I took of our little corner. Beautiful hats (Bloom'n Hats) my Nanny crocheted just for the show-

Burlap totes, vintage Buttercup bags, and lots of aprons...

Coffee cozies galore, zipper hair clips & zipper pins. Gorgeous Anna Maria Horner Little Folks voile cotton scarfs made by my sister-in-law Marci-

Pillows, pillows, pillows...burlap, muslin, and toile fabrics...

The Collection: A Vintage Inspired Flea Market

2010-03-04T05:22:00.000-08:00

I think my title pretty much sums up what I've been doing these last few weeks. Whew...talk about sewing like a mad woman! My first ever show as a vendor and I'm sooooo nervous...but oh so excited too! It's going to be wonderful...so many awesome vendors, and Timi has outdone herself. Talk about the perfect party planner, well this gal has the knack for it and wait till you see what she has planned...anyone attending the show is in for a treat :) Friday evening, March 5th will be our Early Bird opening from 5-8pm $10 entry fee. Sat. March 6th will be the day you want to print out a coupon for the $5 entry fee. Don't forget it...and make sure to print one out for each of your girlfriends that your bringing along!

If you have anymore questions or need directions to the hall...go here Come Junk With Us. You will also get a little sneak preview of the FABULOUS items she has up for grabs at the show. Don't miss out, come out and see us!

Out of the Ordinary...

2010-02-23T08:38:00.000-08:00

Sheeeesh...I wasn't sure if I would ever post again. I haven't had much to share, I guess. I have, but I haven't...you know what I mean? Some things you just can't find words for, or rather, they're all jumbled up inside your noggin and you can't figure anything out to save your life. That's the kind of month I've had, a couple of months actually. Not to mention the fact I worry about my writing skills or lack there of. That has passed for now, and I feel somewhat inspired.

Want to know what has inspired me? Love, that's right...just Love. I feel a lot of it right now...pouring out of me, but given back to me as well. I find myself thinking about my guy all throughout the days...wondering, daydreaming, hoping that he feels as much love as I do. I think he does, I hope he does. This man, the one I decided to give my heart to, is my everything. After all the time that has passed between us, I still get butterflies when he walks through the door. I catch my breath when he sneaks up behind me and kisses my neck. His smell stays with me hour after hour, giving me little snippets of his earlier presence. I miss him when he's gone, it's a small hole that can't be filled until he's by my side again.
We share a Love connection that has matured, it has brought me to this place in Love. My place, Our place is together, always. This family, this home we built with our Love, facing the fears and failures life has presented us, but never giving up and never letting go. I won't let go, as long as he exists...I will forever be his girl. For everything that has created this love, I know there is more to come...and I wait for it, with giddy anticipation.

My New Music

2009-11-13T12:36:00.000-08:00

Soooo...I found Bon Iver...let me just say I love this music! Yes, I'm very new to it...a wonderful discovery through the New Moon Soundtrack and I just can't stop listening to them. Skinny Love and For Emma...absolutely beautiful. I can't get enough...what I wouldn't give to go to a concert...but alas, it's just a dream. Maybe some day...but for now here's some of the good stuff...

You are my Nemesis...

2009-11-10T11:19:00.000-08:00

Burlap...I don't like you...I have issues with you...why can't you be easy and joyful to sew with like my Amy Butler or Heather Bailey fabric? It could be this specific burlap (not sure?) It was given to me by my gf Amber, that sweetie (seriously, I do like burlap...and I thank you for it!). It was just very unruly...if you get my drift. It seemed to unravel, shift, and stretch whichever way I tried to sew it. My measurement's got off due to the changing sizes of the pieces I was working with, which in turn made my lining off. I finally threw up my hands in defeat, continued to sew, and well...it's a very abstract, original, eclectic bag. Hmmm...I wonder if anyone else has the same probs as me when sewing with this stuff? Probably not...I imagine it's just me and my abstract way of sewing, LOL! That's ok...I seem to always come out with something unique...here she is, in all her glory...

Busy Bee

2009-11-06T07:50:00.000-08:00

Finally, I took some snapshots of my projects. It's about time, I almost forgot to take pictures, in fact, I had the apron all packed up and ready to ship out when I remembered I promised to share on my blog the new stuff! So, off came the tape, out came the apron and click, click here are your pictures...the Buttercup bag, sew fun! Tutorial found here Made By Rae

Both of these aprons are my own creations...the top apron I've named the Nanny Apron after my Grandmother Lonnie whom I love dearly...
The 1/2 apron, I haven't decided yet...any suggestions would be greatly appreciated, I could even do a give-away to the person with the best name :) Wouldn't that be fun! It's a surprise though...so join in a play along, you might just be a winner!

Happy crafting ladies...get busy... the Holidays are upon us!

Thinking it's time...

2009-10-28T08:39:00.000-07:00

Yeah...I've been a little lax in the "posting my creative side" on my blog. I don't know why, except that I feel like I'm always running out of time and I barely get to keep up my sewing habit. There's where I fall short, I forget to take snap-shots of my finished projects, and usually remember after I've handed them over to their new owners. I have been busy, though. Purses, aprons, coffee cozies, bags, tu-tu's, Halloween costumes, the list goes on...I just don't have any proof. You'll all have to take my word for it, I have been productive. I made a trip to the Funky Junk Sisters show on the Come Junk With Us bus and it was a blast! I would recommend everyone join up next trip...I believe it will be Dec. 5th.
Yes, I made some pretty purchases on Sat...but they were also wise purchases...I will be posting some new creations soon, just to show you how well I did on my shopping adventure!
Here's a little hint of what I found at the Funky Junk Sisters...(snap shot swiped from my best gf and awesome photographer Tres Birds Photography) Stay tuned...and I promise to have photos of awesome creativeness...

Soon to be "J" 16

2009-10-06T12:29:00.000-07:00

My boy, my boy...he's growing up. No...I don't like it, not one bit. The blessing in it all is he's still a Mama's boy and I will forever be thankful for that. Not the kind of Mama's boy like wimpy and pitiful, but the kind that always cares how I'm feeling, always wants to help me out no matter what I'm doing, shares his plans and concerns, whose honest and just plain fun to be with (even if it's just me, mom)! This last Saturday was his first homecoming and he was so handsome (just a tad nervous), but so excited! We all were...and in the end he had a blast! I'm so happy for him. To some, I know such a insignificant little event shouldn't get the Watts household in such a tizzy, but in our world this was something to celebrate. Our "J" 16 has had some trials and tribulations when it came to potential friends, high school, the world that teenagers live in, especially the traditional public school system. He's attended an alternative school for the last 2 years that's helped him grow in a lot of ways. Through past events he's learned to guard himself when it comes to kids his own age, he never lets too many people close to him, unless they're adults and he realizes he can trust them. In teenager land, you never really know who you can trust, right? Even then, your let down quite a bit. However, this past summer he decided after time away from family, vacationing like a professional traveler, he wanted to attend traditional High School...

Blew me away...completely. Had no ideal this would ever come up again. I discussed it with him intently, tried to talk him out of it, not wanting him to suffer anymore than he already has. It didn't work, his mind was made up and he wanted to enroll. So...that's what happened...

Best decision ever...he's having a great time, he's grown up a lot, matured and is really enjoying the new found freedom of teenager land. Thank you God for your direction and encouragement...you always lead us in the right direction. The only problem is if we decide to go our own way...

Here are some pictures of our handsome son

Fallling into Fall...

2009-09-23T08:07:00.000-07:00

Yes...that sums it up for this girl. Like when you stand with your arms wide open, slowly letting your breath out, simply closing your eyes and falling backwards into someones arms that you care about, that's how I think about fall. Falling into it...wondering where it's going to take us for the next year. Cool, early morning frost, with the sun peeking through the trees...stretching into shady afternoons, with the beautiful leaves changing every second of the day...ending with stunning sunsets when the weather is at it's best! Doesn't it just give you goose bumps! Oh it does me...best of all...the 2 greatest holidays are right around the corner! Thanksgiving and Christmas! What more could a girl want? O.K...maybe some extra $$$ for Christmas, but that's another post. For right now it's time for delicious soups, hot chocolate, warm fires, lots of book reading, pumpkin patches, baking, costume making, party planning (we have 3, yes 3 birthdays in Oct.), and decorating! How about you girls...what are your plans for the Fall?

My Sweet "J" 6

2009-09-14T17:41:00.000-07:00

When my kids are in trouble, I get 4 very different reactions. I'm sure you all have received the infamous apology letter...yesterday the WHOLE family received such a letter from the youngest "J". My heart swelled with love and pride as she walked through the house reading it aloud to each of us. For some unknown reason...it has now disappeared from my memory...she threw a hum-dinger of a fit! Screaming, yelling, stomping (In her mind, I'm sure she had good reason) but for the rest of the Watts crew, it was unacceptable. Finally, we all decided to tell her exactly how we felt. Simply put, she was being a BRAT ! We were done...and we let her know. Of course she was sent to her room, to think about her attitude, to settle down. Eventually she emerged with this little scrap of paper...

If I may, I will interpret...

Top line: From Jaycee

2nd line: Im S (I'm sorry)

3rd line: I B AO B (I be bad)

4th line: To CAJJJ (To Charity, Andy, Jacob, Jackson, & Jillian)

My girl, my sweet little girl is not much of a speller yet, but she got her point across :) She was very sorry for her temper-tantrum...and we all forgave her, of course! I had to kiss her all over and squeeze her tight for that sweet little note! Lord, I'm not ready for her to grow up...can you please keep her little forever?

Lazy Summer Days...What?

2009-09-11T12:55:00.000-07:00

I did not have many lazy summer days. It would have been lovely, yet it wasn't written in the stars I suppose. Lots of trips, lots of decisions to make, and many projects to tackle (few involved sewing). As I sit here now, I ponder where did my summer go? Did anyone see it? I think it rushed by without visiting me. How about any of you? Were you granted a lazy summer or were you so rudely skipped? I need to face the cold-hearted facts...it's gone and it won't be back until next year, right? I'm still a little out of sorts, but the Fall will bring me out of it, I'm positive! Considering it's my favorite time of year! Yes...I'm an Autumn girl at heart. The cool, crisp mornings and beautiful ever-changing colors get me every single time. I love the new beginnings of school days, the excitement in the air...the kids wondering whose class they will be in, new faces, pumpkins casting their orange glow, picking out fun costumes to create, preparing for the Holiday season and visits from family. It makes me giddy inside just writing it all down! Sorry if I'm losing you here, I don't mean to shove it in your face, but I seriously can't help myself...please forgive me if you don't feel the same way. I know it can be hectic too...full of uncertainty, but I like to focus on the newness of it all...

On another note, with the "J" crew all back in school this year, I found a little free time. Yes, my dear ladies I had some crafty business to attend to. I found this Alexander Henry Sew Now, Sew Wow fabric over the summer, and it was love at first sight! I had to have it. Finally decided today was the day to create something with it. I whipped up this cute little sewing machine cover in about an hour...very easy...it normally would only take maybe 30 min. but I was up & down, up & down...you know how it is, always have a zillion things going at once. I used this little tutorial on CraftBlog.com.ua. What can I get myself into now?

Lost

2009-08-07T10:00:00.000-07:00

So I've been lost for awhile...so...sooo sorry. Life has taken an uncertain curve that I wasn't expecting. Our family has been mourning the death of my dear uncle, as well as celebrating the life he lived. He was one of the most intelligent, hard-working, teddy-bear of a man I've ever had the pleasure of knowing and I will miss him so much! Death has a way of making you look so hard at life, sometimes the simpler things fall by the wayside. My blog will attest to that :)

My extended family in CA have begun a long, difficult journey and I miss the fact that I won't be there to walk along side of them when they need a hand to hold or shoulder to cry on. I've enjoyed every second of being with them...even the heart-breaking moments. I love them...all of them and I pray God will continue to shelter them with comfort and peace.

Now that we're home (we made 3 trips driving to CA in 5 weeks) I feel behind, and a little overwhelmed. My summer has definitely been different...not what I was planning of course, but it's almost over and I'm sad to see not much accomplished. I have, however been able to sew lots of neat things, but failed to capture them with the camera. You will just have to take my word for it :)

Hopefully the kiddos and I will get to do some fun outings before the dreaded "first" day of school. I am not looking forward to it...I really do like having them with me. It's all going way to fast, my kiddos growing up & all. I'm going to be one of the sad mama birds when all my baby birds leave the nest. I will not know what to do with myself...

For now, I will continue to enjoy them...all the time I have with them. They grow up fast, and fretting over it doesn't stop it...I just lose valuable time with them. So...enjoy your kiddos ladies, don't let time pass you by...we only get one life to live, enjoy them!

Happy Daddy!

2009-05-29T09:22:00.000-07:00

Yes, my hunka-burn'n love is a Happy Daddy...and no I did not have another baby! Big Daddy is flashing his new Tatt's and he's ecstatic! He's been wanting them for sooooo long, and finally the day arrived. I know, I know...the permanent thing freaks people out, but it's something you either love or hate, there is no in between. Anyhow...he's mine, for a very long time and I can live with him no matter what he covers his body with. Yes...he probably won't look so cool when he's 70 sport'n nautical stars, but neither will the gray hair or bald head, missing teeth, wrinkles and sag. I'll love him anyway...I'll love him always...that's how it is with Big Daddy!

The Receiving End...

2009-05-21T07:49:00.000-07:00

So...here's the Swappy gift I received...it IS SO AWESOME! My partner completely out-did herself! (I'm sooo glad she was my partner...not to rub it in or anything :) I just can't help myself.

First, a b-e-a-utiful bouquet of flowers made out of pattern paper! How cute is that? She's so crafty that La~Te~Da, her brain is always on overdrive :)

Next, a sweet journal with an old tape measure and the phrase "Sew Happy Together"...for all those days I can't stop thinking of Big Daddy, I can journal my little heart away!

Also, a sweet little candle with a pretty little birdie and 2 pieces of GORGEOUS fabric. Believe me, I already have a pattern picked out to create something incredible with it.

A fun little paper sign to hang the door to my sewing room "Sew Busy" or "Not Sew Busy"...bet you wish you came up with this collage of cuteness, I know I do :)

Lastly, and something I'm very partial to...a charm necklace that has a snapshot of trailers on it along with the phrase "Mess with me, you mess with the WHOLE trailer park"! You gotta love that, especially when it's sooo true considering my family back in Cali. I grew up in trailers, we all did. They would be so proud to wear this badge of honor...just like me!

Thanks Trish...you know I love it ALL! So, any of you ladies out there that just happen by my blog, go check out La~Te~Da...she does amazing stuff. Plus she's going to be at three shows this summer, so stay tuned :)

Spring Swap

2009-05-20T09:35:00.000-07:00

I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED my spring swappy gift! La~Te~Da was my partner and she did an amazing job on all the beautiful things she gave me. Thank you girl...your the bomb! I wanted to share what I made for her...it was a lot of fun making, I think I want to make one for myself now :) I used an old quilt, sheets, and pillow case...plus hankies, cloth napkin, and a hair elastic for the wallet. I followed these cute tutorials for the bag and the wallet. Try them out...they were so easy to make! The Pleated Purse and the Scrappy Loyalty Card Wallet.

Go Away

2009-05-07T13:11:00.000-07:00

Rain, Rain go away
Come again another day...

Another day far, far off like next fall...
I need sun, more sun

My skin looks a little grey,
My mood is even greyer...how about you?

Blue Skies...

2009-05-04T16:13:00.000-07:00

So I got this awesome text from my used to be "AZ" girlfriend, she's now home again. For how long...God only knows, but I'm happy to have her here for however long he lets me have her. Onward...the text, she simply told me to keep my chin up... and I had to share it with you. It's kept me moving. Moving through the valley...I've kept my chin up, that's exactly what I've been doing. Keeping my eyes up, my face up, my chin up...everything pointed to the heavenly realms. It's good. It's helping. It's Jesus...he sees me looking for him when I'm tired and want to look down. Just as soon as I begin to look down, he catches my eye and I begin to focus again. I see blue skies...the valley isn't so black anymore...Jesus is walking beside me.

Lately I see him in my husband. When I don't want to move forward, do what needs to be done, change what needs to change...Andy loves me still. That makes me want to walk the valley, makes me climb the impossible mountain, move the unmovable. He keeps up the prayer vigil nightly. He serves me with an open hand and an open heart. At our last FPU class I was reminded of so many times that Andy has given of his heart to me freely...without expectation of return. I see Jesus in my husband and I fall in love with him all over again. How wonderful is that? Wouldn't that be worth going through trial for? Wouldn't that be worth God refining and molding me...only to show me that the victory in the end will forever bless my marriage ? I believe so...yes, I'm sure of it...Jesus has made things clear to me and I'm just now ready to accept them.

I'm gaining courage and strength as I battle through this...Jesus is my savior time and time again. How truly I see his love when he picks me up and dusts me off, sets my feet on solid ground, takes my hand, and leads me forward. God...I cannot thank you enough times, with enough words for giving your only son. My heart skips a beat, tightens in my chest, and my breath is taken away when I think of the sacrifice...something I don't think I could ever do. What an amazing God I serve...full of grace...and love...

New Moon Countdown Official

2009-05-02T10:44:00.001-07:00

Just had to mention...last night J "10" had her birthday party. It was a sleep over with 8 little girls. WoW...yeah...ummm...I'm tired this morning...but I had to post! Yes Indeed ladies, it was a Twilight tizy here in the Watts home. It was time to officially share with these sweet girls when there beloved Edward, Bella, and Jacob would grace the big screen again! Oh how fun it is to share the ooohs, awwwes, and giggles. I will remember these days forever...thank you Jesus for my little girl who's not so little anymore. Bless her as she continues to grow up into a beautiful young lady. Thank you for all the fun and joy she has brought into our lives...

Through the Valley...

2009-04-27T07:30:00.000-07:00

Is anyone here right now? Have you been lately? If not...praise God, you need to stand firm and fight the battle for the rest of us that have been captured in the valley. I'm battling through a valley right now, God is with me, but I'm still afraid. I'm facing the fear, everyday through prayer and patience, persistence and faithfulness. Just know that your sister in Christ is fighting a battle, a spiritual battle. The enemy is on a warpath, but he won't win...I won't let him. This valley, is dark and desolate...I don't know why I'm here, or really how I wound up here...but I'm stumbling, clawing, waging through it. For the past few days the Lord has had to carry me, literally. I had little interest in anything other than sleeping, but he said nope...not gonna happen. My heart has been heavy laden. Lots of stirrings in my soul has crept to the surface. There is a reason for this season, but frankly this is one crappy season I'd just as soon skip and pass it on by. The Lord has other plans for me, this I know in my heart. He has bigger plans for Andy and I both. Things we had never dreamed of, and as the saying goes one foot in front of the other... there are issues God needs to get resolved and tidy ed up a bit. As the weekend continued on, I kept busy, (thanks Amber, Trish, & Mom) I trudged forward, whether being carried, limping, or slow stepp'n I will see the end...I will see the other side...He will guide me through, and never leave me. All you who put your hope in the Lord be strong and brave ~Psalm 31:24

Fight the Fight...get on your knees...keep on, press forward

Thanks ladies for all your prayers, advice, and love...you are beautiful to me...

The Lilly Apron

2009-04-26T13:17:00.000-07:00

Just a little sewing...had to get my fix while Andy was gone fishing...

I haven't decided yet how I actually like the "appearance" of the apron, considering J "15" told me I looked like I was expecting again. Still, it's very comfortable and it's not tight anywhere, so that's a plus, right? The Lilly apron is a pretty easy pattern to follow and was fun to make. I'm positive I'll make it again with a few minor adjustments here and there. I've missed sewing seeewww much lately I had to just sit down and make myself do it. Not because I didn't want to, only because I had so many other things that needed to be done first. Sometimes, I need to stop and remember what keeps my gas tank full (not that Jesus doesn't do that fully) but I still need to keep my creative wheels turning. Sewing is a passion for me...right along with Jesus my best friend. He planted a joy in my heart for creating and sewing and when I deprive myself from it, I tend to become a little melancholy, short tempered, sometimes even resentful. So today I thank you God for allowing me to create this cute little apron to wear around my home while I do your business of attending my family...oh, and yes...I will do it with a smile on my face along with style and grace! Have a great week girlfriends!

I almost forgot...some awesome garage sale finds this weekend...fabric, of course

P.S. I forgot to add this too...head on over to Southern Hospitality and share your great finds

Movie Must See

2009-04-18T16:15:00.000-07:00

Ladies, ladies...you have to see Faith like Potatoes. It was sooo good! Last night we had movie night with some friends and I decided to pick Faith like Potatoes. I'm not sure how they felt about it, but I thought it was AWESOME! I'm not going to give anything away except that it's filmed in Greytown, KwaZulu Natal South Africa (I have a feeling Tres Birds will really enjoy it!) Rent it, watch it, and let me know how you all felt about it...I'm interested in how you all feel about it...so until then...happy movie watching!

Easter Celebrations

2009-04-12T18:50:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter everyone...hope your Sunday was as blessed as mine! Thank you God for allowing your son Jesus to carry our sins to the cross. He died for you and me so that we may spend eternal life with him...what a miracle Easter is! Yes he died, but he rose again, what a day to celebrate!

Homeshcool Life

2009-03-23T11:50:00.000-07:00

Quickie...that's all this is going to be...because right now, that's all I have left to give...

God is moving me into, yet, another direction. Yes...another direction I said, so when you see me next time I will look all-a-flutter! Not that I don't always look like I took a tumble down the stairs these days or maybe I just got up out of bed? I don't remember, anyhow my minds all jumbled up mostly because I'm just trying to get my thoughts and time organized. And, well, when that all happens, maybe I'll get to sit down and sensibly blog about a beautiful, inspiring, blog-appropriate occasion. Until then...know that the Fabulous Watts Mom is homeschooling (not all 4) I think I would curl up in the fetal position and begin to hum "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" while squeezing my eyes tightly shut if it was the WHOLE gang! It's just "J" 11...he's the one God has placed before me right now, so he's home and we're giving it a go, "J" 15 part time too, along with his Montessori classes.

That's the low-down for now, I'll try to blog...I'm just going to be a little spastic for a while, at least until I get the hang of this homeschooling thing :-)

Re-Post

2009-02-27T11:13:00.000-08:00

Re-posting a blog...is it allowed? Hope so, cause' I'm doin' it :) I was going back through all my old posts after I gave my blog a lil' face lift and realized in the beginning, yeah...ummm...hmmm...I had no idea what I was doing. O.K. so, I still don't know a lot about what I'm doing, just a tad bit more. I realized what I thought I was posting as a "blog-post" was actually a page element at the bottom of my blog. Not wanting it to sit all lonely down at the underbelly of my creative, adorable, humorous, crafty (your smiling right now, aren't you?) memorable blog, I've decided to correct this horrendous mistake and repost, O.k.?
....O.k...now that that's out of the way this bag I made for my cousin Jody. The patchwork purse is a really fun to make. Looking back on it now, I'm seeing it's time to do a little upgrading. I'm sure Jody definitely needs a new purse :) The purse itself, well, it needs some help, too. I'm gonna give it a little pizazz (did I spell that right?) The second bag I made for my Nan. I used Amy Butler fabric, of course who doesn't love Amy Butler fabric, and a round mesh place mat for the bottom. I threw together my own pattern, and in the end I think it turned out very cute and Nan really liked it. Here they are in all their glory.... and first timer mistakes :)

Birthday Blessings

2009-02-25T11:30:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to share with you my 35th birthday. As we grow older we don't much care to celebrate aging, well I don't anyway. My 30th was extremely difficult for me, just ask Big Daddy...he can tell you a story about that day! To be honest, my birthdays haven't gotten any easier to handle, but I manage through them I suppose. This year, however I cannot explain to you how blessed I truly am! God is AMAZING! He is truly a miracle worker...

Even though I've obsessed over growing older, somehow this year...he erased it from my heart! Erased it! Girls, do you know what I'm saying? This is powerful for me...if you know me, my personality, my guts, the "soul" of me, this is a real miracle of the spirit! An epiphany...God has changed me. Through my children, my husband, and my great friends God revealed his true and perfect acceptance of me. It didn't matter that I wasn't 21, it didn't matter that I wasn't a size 2, it didn't matter that my make-up wasn't perfect, that my hair wasn't colored or my clothes were from the Goodwill. The people around me, My people loved me and celebrated with me that I was here and God created me. How awesome! How great! I know, for most of you out there...you realized this a long time ago, but for some of us...well, we're just slow learners. I think maybe I just let the world tell me different, ya know? I let myself think that I needed to always be better, be more, be different than what God made me to be. Always striving to be this perfect ageless, "young" mother of 4 who doesn't look like the mother of 4. I know...stupid, but to my demise, I strived to achieve the unattainable. Indeed, I never got any younger, only older every year (imagine that?) depressed because I could not find the magic "pill", fatter because I was depressed, and well you see the snowball effect here, right? Something so far out there, yet I was on the train, like so many other women today...trying to be something that we're not, just because the world tells us that's what we should be!

It's time to listen to the Lord our God, what is He telling us? Do you hear him? Are you taking the time to hear him? For so long I wasn't. I was so busy listening to the world that it drowned out my God's voice...I couldn't even hear him if I wanted to. The verse in the bible Proverbs 31:10 "Who can find a virtuous woman, for her price is far above rubies?" is a great way to start focusing in on God's word. The definition of virtuous: strong moral character. We definitely need that in our world today, right? So, I've decided that's where I'm going to start. Slowly and faithfully with God by my side. I visit Passionate Homemaking often, that's where I came across the Virtuous Woman study and I really feel the Lord prompting me to take another step closer to him. So this is it...I'm taking the step, are you with me?

Thank you God for awarding me a birthday I will never forget...

Here are some presents that came along with all the other wonderful birthday blessings in 2009. Early in the morning "J" 15 woke to make my favorite breakfast... waffles! I was served on the "Red, You are Special Today" plate. I was so suprised, I forgot to take pictures :( I quickly recovered and started snapping away later on in the day.

Here they are in the afternoon when these two handsome guys started decorating after they cleaned the entire house while Big Daddy took me shopping for my birthday present!

They even baked me a cake...(of course "J" 15 did most of the baking)

"J" 11 thought it would make Fabulous Mom feel even more Fabulous to think she was 25 again!

Beautiful Flowers from LeAnn...so sweet! I loved them, thank-you...

Big Daddy took me to Borders to get me this...it's been on the list for a while now :) I love it!

Lastly...the Proudfoots totally Rock! My new Marble board...we've played marbles every night since you gave it to me! Love you guys...

Inspired Project Update

2009-02-23T11:45:00.000-08:00

So here we go, I'm going to let you ladies into my sewing room before the make-over. Let me just say that this room is not just the "crafty" room, it's also the office, the exercise room, the "I don't know where to put this" room, as well as the room I used to do nails in. It has many faces, as you will see in this upcoming photo. As I'm typing away, I'm beginning to get a queasy feeling in the pit of my stomach, knowing that I'm sharing such an intimate area of my life (I feel a bit vulnerable) when I let my self look a little too real. Anybody identify with these feelings or is just me right now? So here goes...take a good long look at my mess. Just to clarify, the rest of my house looks nothing like this room :) P.S. thank you tres birds for sharing your secret with me I've had so much fun, as you can tell with all the pictures!

Mucho Progress...

Moving on to the Fun Stuff...

Final outcome...so what's the verdict? Wow, is all I can say! I'm so excited :) I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it! What do you think? There's still fabric in the center of the room that needs to be folded and put away, papers to be shredded, and books to be shelved, but I'm so happy with the end result, it's everything I wanted and more! Here it is....

Labor of Love

2009-02-17T17:34:00.000-08:00

Back tracking just a little bit...we had a low-key Valentines Day this year. I don't mean that in a bad way, it's just not the stereo-typed, commercialized, typical "Valentines" Day...the one I've become so accustomed to. Yes, I admit ladies I'm the woman who thinks she should get a gift every single Valentines Day, a card, flowers,candy, jewelry...something just because I need another gift (yeah right!) maybe it's that "significance" thing...or maybe it's just that society sets us up for these unrealistic expectations of how marriage, love, and romance in real life is expressed. I'm leaning towards the last one...how about you? I think it's high time I change my expectations! ...But it's really hard, although I debated with myself all weekend long, reasoned, even sort of argued, it still hurt when I felt like Big Daddy didn't take the time to show me that he really appreciated me (sniff, sniff)... I sound like a big baby as I'm reading this back to myself, LOL! By the way, Pastor S. started the whole Big Daddy thing...my guy, as you all know is rather slender in physic, and not too tall in the height department, so it has now stuck- Big Daddy it is-

I, the fabulous wife that I am, did however wake early in wee morning hours on Valentines Day...rouse my sweet adorable daughters to come and bake for their dashingly, dear, father who so unselfishly drove to work on Sat. morning. "Let's go bake Chocolate Cupcakes for Dad and surprise him when he gets home...we can get all dressed up, too..." "Yes, yes...they squealed to each other..." And so the morning began...

Not a very good shot of the finished product, but some chocolaty cupcakes left on the cupcake tree for Big Daddy to enjoy...and he did! Lots of home made cards, made with love and candy hearts to go with...all the labor of Love. Oh yeah...me bragging about being the Fabulous wife earlier...I actually should be hanging my head in shame, I didn't even capture my sweet card and rose from Big Daddy on film...how's that for Fabulous? Pretty Pathetic if we want reality...hope you and yours had a Happy Valentines Day!

Inspired Project

2009-02-12T13:22:00.000-08:00

I've been Inspired! Yes...it's happened. I've done it again...I've sat at my computer clicking through blogville, letting myself wonder...thinking, pondering, praying, commenting, visiting, sharing, asking, inviting, and yes I happened upon some wonderful items! Of course I visited my usual Tres Birds, Tinker Verve, La Te Da, Conversation Queen, Random Thoughts, and Water Girl...these gals are the real deal. They are the physical face to face women in my life that keep me real. As I continued on my stroll I visited another blog that's a fav of mine and she had one of the most beautiful quilts, instantly- I was in Love! The colors were gorgeous...I was smitten, that was all there was to it. I knew I had to make something with those colors. I knew I couldn't buy the quilt...ummm,( thank-you Dave) soooo...I did the next best thing...I did some digging in my fabric stash and found what I could. I was going to make something like it, even if it took me forever! Next I went to work on an old shelf-thingy I had in my office/craft/sewing room. What to do with it...where to put it? For some reason I decided it would go up in my laundry space. It's not a laundry room, it's a sort-of closet. I had to take the doors off because the kids kept jerking them off the tracks causing them to fall forward and knock big gashes into the walls. Nice...I know :) So now I have a nice washer and dryer nook :) I'd like to have something else going up there, but have no idea what to do. Different Post I guess...any ideas would be greatly appreciated! Now I'm rambling...onward...with the rest of my project, back to the Love Story. I forgot to take before pictures of the icky-ugly shelf, but I did take pictures of the doors, so you can get my drift when I say "it wasn't pretty to look at". I gave "J" 15 the job of painting it white...which he takes very seriously. He's my project "go to" guy. He's going to make some woman a very happy husband someday :) (He likes to bake, also) Anyhoo...I proceeded to whip up this very pretty, quilt-like, and dare I say "eye candyish" curtain...

So tell me what'cha all think?... Before:

After:

Iside:

I don't think I really like the new shelf in the laundry area...it's too cute to be stuck upstairs where no one can see or appreciate it's cuteness. I think I may move it down stairs into my sewing/craft/office room. Don't you think? I LOVED the way it turned out...in fact I loved it so much that I took some $$$ that I earned (yes, I discussed this with Big Daddy P.S.) and I went and bought this...I need all 5 of you ladies that read this blog to give me your HONEST opinion! I'm going to paint my sewing room this color....

TA-DA!

Good Morning Lord...

2009-02-10T10:27:00.000-08:00

We had another 40 days of 24/7 prayer at church, again I can't tell you how awesome it really was. So much so...I have to start my day with prayer, get through it with prayer and end it that way too. Not just meditating on it, but just conversing with my heavenly Father all day long. Yeah, it probably would sound nutty if you walked in on me and I was rambling on about this or that, but I've decided I can't live life not being connected to him ALL the time. It's the only way I can survive. Just follow the signs...this way please...

My 2 girls "J" 9 and "J" 6 heading in to pray with Mom...it was a blessing praying along w/ them

As we ( myself and the oldest "J") let's call him 15, drove to SVE this morning, we moaned and groaned over the new fallen snow. Oh how we were so sick of it...tired of it...enough already! Please bring us some sun, just a little, it's not like we're asking for a lot, right? Complain, complain, complain...blah, blah, blah....

...And on the way home the Lord whispered in my ear...look, I gave you something this morning, did you miss it my daughter? Did you not see it? I made it just for you! Oh, I hope you see it, don't let it pass you by for there may not be another one like this one...

Thank you Father for this precious day you've given me. I will do what I can for you today. I almost let it pass me by. Forgive me for fretting and fussing, complaining when really I had nothing to complain about. I love you, and I thank you for the many blessings in my wonderful life. You are my light, and my hope, my sustainer, my strength. I pray that I am as faithful to you today as you ALWAYS have been to me. Be with all of my family throughout their day and be with all of my friends...lift all of their spirits high. I praise you God my Father. In Jesus name...Amen.

Thank you all my blog buddies for hanging around, sometimes I get a little lax on the blogging. I'll keep trying...even if I do feel like there's not much going on, I guess I could just blog about "nothing much". Love ya!

Finished Birdie Sling

2009-01-29T16:48:00.000-08:00

A finished project...not too hard...a whole lot of fun...my swanky Amy Butler Birdie Sling

Nothing much to say...

2009-01-26T11:42:00.000-08:00

Sometimes there's just not much to be said or maybe it's just that sometimes our feelings are so jumbled up inside, we can't quite figure out how to express them in words. That's how it's going today...so I'm just going to leave you with some snapshots of stuff...random stuff...kinda how I'm feeling...random...

Something for me, work in progress

Amber's teaching me...thank you :)

mmm...goood

Something for someone else

Taking good advice from my friend and having fun with my camera

It's gone, time for new investments

2009-01-01T15:23:00.000-08:00

...I'm still looking for it, you know...2008? I don't know about any of you, but it past me in a blurr! Is it me or are you feeling as though every year that we get older time decides to kick it up a notch and speed by a smidgen faster? Do I really have a son talking about buying a car, drivers license, and college? No...I can't possibly be that old, can I? O.K...so I don't really want any of you gals to answer that :) Onward we go...into 2009 and I've decided to do some investing. What, you might ask? Let me just back up to yesterday Sunday, Jan. 5th at our church service. My pastor gave a very good sermon (as he always does, thank-you Pastor Sean) but he really hit a nerve when he started asking the congregation if any of us invested in God daily...as much as He invests in us? Truthfully, my answer was no, is no...I don't invest in him and I don't like saying it. I don't like hearing it or thinking about it either. Through the years I've never took time to really make New Years resolutions, my family never did, so I never did. I'm not going to start now, but I am going to start something...like investments. Investments in God, my relationship with him, investments in my marriage, in my children, my family, and my friendships. Time is slipping away too fast, and there's no do-overs...I don't want to be standing in front of my heavenly father saying please, please forgive me...I wanted to spend time with you, I just had so many other things to do...the house to clean, food to cook, errands to run, appointments to keep. No, that's not gonna be me...I'm going to do some investing in 2009...

Come on in...

2008-12-22T21:15:00.000-08:00

I visited a blog today ,not that I do that often or anything :) and she had the funnest way of sharing her home during the holiday season with her blog buddies...thank you Brassy Apple! Pull up a chair, maybe a coffee, and come on in...

Lastly, the greatest of these...the reason for the season...the birth of Jesus Christ my savior!

Christmas List Busy

2008-12-17T13:27:00.000-08:00

O.K. ladies...where are we all with our Christmas Lists? Are you spending your time wisely? How about marking off those gifts from the wish list? Does your list include specially crafted and handmade gifts for the wonderful people in your lives? I hope so because your all blessed with creative, crafty, and inspiring talent! Peanut and Mickey Doodle are getting these fun little wallets the kids and I made from a wonderful tutorial by sew liberated. What a great idea...my girlfriend at tres birds gave the tutorial a whirl and her wallets turned out too cute! That quick...wham-bam...I knew what my niece and nephew in Cali needed in their Christmas presents...neat, fun, cute recycled magazine wallets. I mean how perfect for a Spiderman fan or a little girl who can't get enough pink? Thanks Ambo :)

Of course you can't ever go wrong with coffee cozies, especially for all the people around me who love coffee! Christmas themed coffee cozies with a couple of buttons and rick rack to hold pre-paid coffee cards...brilliant! They're so great for stocking stuffers, don't ya think?

Here's two little children's aprons I made for Little Bit and Mickey...by special request from their Mom. I think they turned out quite nice. I love, love, love the mushroom fabric. I hope Mom likes it too. It's fits Little Bit to a "T". Not too girly, but still cute. For brother, Mickey Doodle, I used camp out fabric...he loves to camp with his dad. Here they are:

Soooo...hurry up! Get busy, you only have 8 days left! Merry Christmas girls!

Christmas List

2008-12-12T15:04:00.000-08:00

We're counting down the days...the Watts crew is giddy with anticipation! Christmas is almost here! I'm through with Christmas parties...bunco, church, and so on... now it's time to enjoy the next couple of weeks with my kiddos. Of course I've squeezed in sew-time (I couldn't make it through the season with out it) filling my etsy shop with lots of goodies. Aprons and bags mostly, I'm hoping to get some Christmas cozies and pin cushions added this week. Take a gander at my handy work...

The last few days the kids and I worked on a project for the Ladies Vintage Christmas, Bubby came up with the idea...magazine Christmas trees. At first I was a little hesitant, it sounded a little too cheezy, but in the end they turned out really cute. Here's what we ended up with:

Our Christmas Tree:

This week I'll be working on teachers gifts and special orders. Here's a sneak peak of the teacher's fabric...

I'm hoping that this week we make our trip down to Bellevue Square Snowflake Lane. Last year I took the kids and it was so much fun...especially listening to the drummers. How awesome would that be? To stand in front of thousands of people and play beautiful music? Anyhow, this Friday seems like the perfect time...I'm keeping my fingers crossed. Have a very merry Christmas week...

Preparation...

2008-12-01T11:25:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving at the Watts' home was very different this year. Good, but new in a way. Usually we spend it with lots of family members, over at Bubby & Poppy's house. Instead, Bubby & Poppy traveled to Cali to spend it with the Brothers. A little jealous...yes, I admit it, I was a smidge whiny, but happy for the brothers to have mom and dad for the holiday. The four J's tried everything in the book to keep Bub & Pop home, the guilt trip just didn't work. That brings us to Thanksgiving day. It was very easy-peasy, the girls wanted to get all gussied up, and I decided to go with comfort. All in all, the Watts crew had a fun time cooking together and sitting down to enjoy our delicious meal. Of course we went around the table and expressed what we were truly thankful for. Eachother, health, our great Thanksgiving dinner, and all the rest of our great family. My sweet husband said he was most thankful for me...I just love that guy so much, he really knows how to compliment a girl :) The change in our traditional Thanksgiving holiday didn't really hurt all that bad...(well, not as bad as I imagined it would!) Here's a little shot of the holiday table all ready for digg'n in!

Moving on...

Christmas! My favorite time of year...I just can't help myself! It's Jesus' birthday...the greatest gift of all, and I'm so happy it was given to me. The feeling in the air, generous giving spirits, the beautiful decorations, heavenly food, shopping great bargains, reading letters to santa, sewing-sewing-sewing, cutting down our Christmas tree, obviousley I could go on and on...but I won't, I know the six of you that actually read my blog already know what I'm talking about :)

To kick off my Christmas List, here are snapshots the Watts crew and our friends making our annual trip to the hills for our Christmas trees. It was so cold, but oh-so-much fun! Thanks to the "M" family, we had a great little campfire to warm up our cold bones after tracking down the perfect tree. Great fun sledding, drinking hot chocolate, and sharing our picnic lunches...Christmas memories are made from occasions like these:

Charlotte

2008-11-06T10:47:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to introduce a new member of our family...most of you who read my blog will be a bit surprised. I'm still in shock...and wondering what was I thinking? Anyhow the rest of the family is in seventh-heaven. She was a birthday present for Mae. She's wanted a puppy for 3 years now, I finally caved. I couldn't fight the battle any longer! I have to admit, she's pretty darn cute. Her personality is great, too...the problem is training a puppy to go to the bathroom outside is way too much work. I really don't have the patience, and frankly the person who does have the patience leaves to go to work every morning. So I'm pretty much the one left holding the bag. O.K....I've moaned & groaned long enough...here is Charlotte:

Halloweenies

2008-11-03T22:19:00.000-08:00

Not much of a Halloween girl...Christmas is my time to shine! Still, I thought I would share some of our family fun...

So many things, so little time!

2008-10-26T19:22:00.001-07:00

I'm not sure where to begin...I have so much to share. Let's see...first, my fall crafty swap gift I received from Michele. It was so fun, and right up my ally. She put some special time into it, and I thank you for all the wonderful items! I can't wait for the next one to start up :-) No pressure AZ girl...I know you gots lots go'n on around your hacienda!

This is a close up of the little scare crow inside a mason jar she made for me...too cute!

Next I'd like to share with you all another special gift I received...but this time it was completely unexpected and it was from my awesome, talented, beautiful mother! She is one of the most talented women I know and I wouldn't be able to do what I do if it wasn't for her patience and support. She never gave up pursuing me with all her crafty creativeness. She always introduced me to ideas of craftiness, whether it was sewing, painting, quilting, building, or beautifying (not sure if that's a word) but you get my meaning, right? She never stops surprising me, another reason I love her like I do. Here's the special gift: A beautiful fall table runner...

Lastly, I finished a couple of projects. A diaper bag for a sweet friend. She and her family just picked up a new addition to their family...they are fostering a new little baby boy. What a tremendous blessing they are going to be for this little baby. It's a precious gift to have a child, and it's hard to understand when they are left alone, abused, and uncared for. God give us all your grace to minister to families who are in crisis. They so desperately need you, they need our love and patience too. Thank you for giving this baby a home and a family to care for him.

Another purse...shades of green

Bring it on

2008-10-16T22:08:00.001-07:00

Fall is the season of festivals, fairs, and crafty events, right? That being the case, I've entered my first ever crafty fair/festival event! I'm so excited, but soooo nervous...of course I can't even describe my thoughts lately (sheer fright sums it up nicely). What if I don't sell anything...what if I don't make enough stuff...what if my booth looks lame...what if I come across flaky (that's not hard for me to do if you know me...which most of you do who read my ity-bity blog :-) ...what if someones not happy with a purchase they made from me...the list goes on and on! I seriously think the what if's are going to kill me before the show date, I should forget about all this fretting business, I'll be put out of my misery soon enough. I know, I know...just take it easy from here on out, right? Easier said than done ladies! I probably sound a little off my rocker, sorry it's spilling over into blogville. You're still with me I hope, I haven't scared you off...even though today's blog is just a tad bit loopy? Just hang in there with me until D-Day arrives, or should I say C-Day ? I solemnly swear I won't go nutty in every blog...just a few from time to time :-)
Here's a few things I've been working on lately...I sew love to sew! It's my true love (besides my hottie hubby!) I can't imagine life without it...

This bag of reminds me of Dandelions in Fall

This one, maybe a Bohemian Flower?

A new Golden Paisley apron...

Pretty in Pink apron anyone?

I absolutely love this Asian theme fabric...just can't get enough of it

All of these new items will be for sale in my etsy shop! If your interested in anything and you don't see it listed in the shop, let me know, I'll answer any of your questions.

Oh so excited!

2008-10-06T12:45:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone...it's been a while. I've been a busy bee around here. I'm so, so excited over my latest project! It's a baby quilt I put together for a gal back in Cali. We grew up in the same little town, went to the same little ol' H.S....had a lot of the same friends. Anyway...she came across my "myspace" and really liked the things I've been designing. Her new little girl is due in Nov. and she wanted something unique for her bedding. I told her I would LOVE to make a quilt for her new bundle of Joy! Here we are...all finished. I do have to say so myself...it's absolutely gorgeous! What do you think?

...lastly, a tiny, but important piece of satisfaction...

My little Mae, as you all know, is struggling with kindergarten this year. Last week I was so busy, trying to get the baby quilt finished, trying to get more items ready for my etsy shop, planning birthday parties (we have 3 this month!), trying to get started on my fall crafty swap (which I have, thank you Lord), and making progress on all my coffee cozy orders! Well, in the middle of the day on Tues. I went to have lunch w/ her (that was our deal...she would try not to cry for 3 full weeks & I would come and have lunch w/ her) she made it, so I had to make good on my promise (I did make sure w/ her teacher that it wouldn't affect her progress, she assured me it wouldn't) hmmm...well it did. She had a heck of a time letting me leave. She cried, and held on to me for dear life. I slowly made it out of the classroom, and yes...had my cry, too. Of course my day went south. All I could think of is how much I missed her, how much it hurt her to be away from me, was she that scared? It was not a very productive day after that. I finally made it back to my sewing machine and sat down with a thump. I could not sew for enjoyment or even necessity...all I could think of was Mae. Before I knew it I was on the floor cutting out a little somthin' somthin for my sweet girl. This is what it turned out to be...

She loved it! I was so happy to see her smile after school. It made me feel like there was a light at the end of the tunnel. For now, we're both on the road to Kindergarten recovery. I know it's a difficult road, but I've been told it's not a very long road and it will get easier and easier everyday :-)

Forever Fall

2008-09-26T17:19:00.000-07:00

I wish...well I guess I may get tired of it, but nah...I don't think so. It's so peaceful, like everything is slowly getting ready to sleep. The leaves changing from lively green to a dusty yellow, then a rusty orange and lastly a beautiful fiery red. Not to brag or anything, but living in the Pacific Northwest is the ultimate Autumn lovers paradise! ( I haven't had the pleasure of visiting other noteworthy awesome Autumn states...maybe one day Maine or Vermont would be fun ) Those are on the places I want to visit "Wish List".

Back to fall...I love waking up to crisp morning air, drinking hot coffee, and whizzing the kiddos off to school. Usually when I'm driving in the early morning I look out over the crowd of changing colors and say to myself "I still can't believe I live here...", my life 6 years ago was in Cali, I never thought my dreams of moving here would ever come true, not to mention planting roots, and settling in. It was something I prayed for daily (I think) for 3 years. Don't get discouraged when God doesn't answer your prayers...he does, maybe not in our time frame, but I'm living proof he hears us and if it's in his will, he'll make it happen! Thank you Lord for bringing my family to the most beautiful place I've ever seen! I can't imagine living anywhere else.

One more thing about the fall, three of my "J's" were born in October :-) So it's extremely busy, but oh so much fun...planning parties, picking out pumpkins, coming up with clever costume ideas, decorating the house with all my fall attire, crafting for Christmas gifts (etsy store, too!), and convincing family that we should all be together for the holidays and it's their turn to come visit us in beautiful Washington, right? Here's to you Washington and your gorgeous fall season...

2008-09-24T18:32:00.000-07:00

This is for my favorite Conversation Queen! These are the best years...lets focus on our sweeties for a bit...isn't this a cute little piece of art? Maybe I can talk Mae into being a vintage clown for Halloween this year...only problem is she'd try and barter for the puppies, too. I have enough guilt when it comes to me & pets. That's a whole different post...don't get me wrong, I like animals, they're so sweet & cuddly, but I have 4 lil' monkeys I take care of 'round the clock. I don't think I could handle another commitment. Yes...it would be Mom taking care of the newly acquired puppy (if I said yes, which I'm not). Enough guilt, moving on...so Stacy, this one's for you, hope you like it!

2008-09-22T19:53:00.000-07:00

I love the fall!!! Isn't it just the best time of year? Everyone is gearing up for the pumpkin patch, taking walks gazing at the beautiful changing leaves, and counting down the days until Thanksgiving! Can't forget the kiddos...dressing up in outrageous costumes, going from house to house, and then digging through the mess of sugary little wonderfuls. Ahhhh...I'm ready...thank you God for Autumn!

24/10 Prayer

2008-09-20T23:39:00.000-07:00

Sorry La~Te~Da, I had to barrow this one from you...I couldn't help it. Sarah Palin is not only a woman I admire, but I've caught the vibe...I feel like I can do anything right now! (through Christ, obviously, who strengthens me) We've had 24 hours a day of prayer for 10 days at church and all I can tell you is, "WOW!" Our God is good and faithful! He's amazing...especially when you really spend time with him and focus on him. I know he's doing wonderful things in our community, as well as in our church!

Slowing down a bit

2008-09-19T17:14:00.000-07:00

Things are finally starting to settle down (for how long...who knows) but today I sat down and took a deep breath. Thank you God for bringing peace...I soooo needed it. This is not my official back in the saddle blog, but I'm getting there. I wanted to share with fellow bloggers that Polka Dot Cottage is kicking off the Fall...Yipee...I LOVE Autumn, it's my favorite season! I can't wait to snapping shots of leaves and all that fally stuff. So gals go check it out...take care, and I'll be back on Monday.

Soul food

2008-09-15T22:30:00.000-07:00

Hello blogger buddies! It's been some time since I've posted, but with very good reason. We've had lots of changes around the Watts castle, and well...it hasn't been an easy transition for us. We had some firsts this past week...

Jacks 1st day of Middle School

Jaycee Mae's 1st day of Kindergarten

Last, but not least Pink's 1st day in 4th grade

Being a stay-at-home mom, raising 4 kids is quite a job. I've had all the ups & downs, as most SAH moms do, but I so vividly remember Jaycee being my last little chick in the nest...thinking to myself...when she starts kindergarten I'll finally get "mom time"...finally do something for me...finally do whatever I want! Hmmm...it didn't happen, it hasn't happened, I don't think it will. Why you ask? I believe it's simply because I've been doing what I wanted to do for 14, almost 15 years now... being a mother. I'm doing what God created me to do. Profound, no...not really, just a simple but wonderful calling that I am blessed to be able to live out. Honestly, God has revealed many things to me over the past month, and I've never been happier. My life isn't perfect by no means, but is it fulfilled...yes, is it blessed...abundantly, is it following Gods plan...I sure hope so! Being at the center of my family has been feeding me...all this time, nourishing my soul. Wow, can you believe it? I'm quickly realizing God knew what he was doing with my life all along, how about that? Funny how something ordinary, like sending your baby off to school, would open up a new chapter in your life, but it has. I thank God for the change, because life's too short to doddle around thinking poor me, what am I going to do...all I am is a mother. A mother, today I look at that and think... praise God for allowing me to become a mother, I couldn't ask for anything better! I wouldn't trade places with anyone, (o.k...maybe with a millionaire, but only because after a day or two with the "J" crew, they'd be begging me to trade back!)

P.S. Can't leave out the first born...I'd never hear the end of it...

The oldest of the "J" crew

Whirlwind trips

2008-09-01T10:34:00.000-07:00

Just a quick little hello...we've been vacationing with family in Cali! Let me tell you...whew...it's been something else. The weather has been a sweltering 106 degrees and I'm lonesome for my Washington weather! It won't be long and I'll be back on the road to an easy breezy climate. I've had a great visit with the family and it makes me realize how important each and everyone of them are to me. I'm desperately missing my nieces and nephew growing up, I don't know if it's worth living apart anymore. These big life questions are hard to answer...but that's why we have prayer, right? As a matter of fact I have a pretty big prayer list in the making right now. So, I have a request for all you prayer warriors out there...where is God leading our family right now? We need guidance and confirmation for our family's path. Also my Papa (grandpa) is very ill. He 's had many health issues this year and I believe with all my heart he's ready to go home with the Lord. He's tired of living in his old body and often times when visiting with him this week I hear a yearning in his voice when he talks about heaven. Of course I'm not ready to live without him...he's had the most spiritual influence in my life other than my husband. I thank God he's my papa, and I've been blessed to have ever known him. I can't wait for the day that he gets to meet Jesus...I can't help but be excited for him. So...if it crosses your mind ever, just send up a little prayer for our family, we need it. Thanks so much blogger gals...I know I can count on you!

Just a little love...

2008-08-20T15:49:00.000-07:00

So here's a little tote I finished. I'm going to have a LOT of these up for sale in my Etsy shop. Isn't it so retro? I think I'm in Love...

Grandma Martha and football...

2008-08-15T09:02:00.000-07:00

We've been busy here at home...gearing up for FOOTBALL! That's right, it's Pirate fever around our house. Lots of practicing, coaching, and more practicing. My guys seem to think this is going to be the Pirate's "winning year"...admittingly I feel the same :-) What's going to make the season even more exciting for Mom is I'll have my good friend Conversation Queen sitting right beside me cheering our boys on! I can't wait...in a week or so we'll be heading down to the Jamboree, the official kick off to the football year! GO PIRATES!!

Happy birthday Grandma Martha! My friend Conversation Queen is celebrating her grandma's 89th birthday today! She asked me to make her a cute little basket liner for her scooter. Of course I said yes without thinking too much about it. Well...let me tell you, that was probably one of the most time consuming, difficult projects I've taken on. Why you ask? (some of you will laugh at this) I'm very illiterate when following patterns. I truly just modge podge my way through things...and for some odd reason I could not get the pattern to this liner to sink into my head! I sat and sat and sat...pondering, thinking, debating...and still I didn't get it. After 5 hours of trying, it finally came to me! The light bulb flickered on and shazzammm...I knew what to do! I was on the road to somewhere...30 minutes later this is what transpired...

Enjoy your pretty, lil' watermelon basket liner Martha...and a Happy Birthday to you!

12 years and counting...

2008-08-12T16:51:00.000-07:00

So here we are...12 years later. My awesome husband whisked me away for our anniversary... no kids, no busy schedules, and no time restraints! It was bliss! By complete surprise...he called me, told me to get an overnight bag packed and a change of clothes for the kids, they were going to stay w/ friends. Be ready in 1 hour! I was so excited...I quickly put a bag together, showered, and organized the kiddos. Then I waited in giddy anticipation! Our final destination was Leavenworth, WA. A beautiful little touristy town...not too far away. We had a cute little room, had a wonderful dinner, and enjoyed each others company with no distractions (well, a little distraction when we talked to Mae for a minute or two...she was a little gloomy, missing Mom & Dad) She cheered up once she gabbed w/ us for a minute...and our dinner continued in dreamy conversation and fanciful planning...

I have to tell you a little about my honey. He is one of the most amazing blessings in my life! He truly is my better half. He's the patient one, the teacher, the rock, the encourager, the kind hearted, the compassionate, the listener, and my best friend. My life would be incomplete without him. There's so many things I love about him...but I wouldn't be able to list them all here. I will however, share my top 20 things I love about Andy:

1. He loves Jesus Christ with all his heart.

2. He never complains about work (to me).

3. He writes me little notes, on whatever's handy, and leaves them for me :-)

4. He always tells me he loves me when we hang up the phone.

5. He cares about my feelings, and he's always the first to say I'm sorry.

6. He irons my clothes for me...

7. He takes care of our lawn, house, and flowers...

8. It's really hard for him to say "no" when I ask for something.

9. He's the best dad in the world!

10. He cares about how he looks...especially for me :-)

11. He puts gas in my car when it's on "E".

12. Out of the blue, he brings me little gifts.

13. He rubs my neck, and shoulders when I have a bad headache.

14. He surprises me when I least expect it!

15. He knows my favorite candy bar :-)

16. He surprises me with coffee!!!

17. He loves my family (the in-laws)

18. He calls me everyday when he leaves work.

19. He doesn't complain when I don't cook (which is often)

20. He encourages me to follow my dream

Hope you enjoyed hearing me ramble on about my hubby...sometimes all we hear about are the jerks and rotten husbands out there. I wanted to give a little love to all the wonderful guys that support us, put up with us, and love us! I love you Andy...

Here it comes...

2008-08-03T16:49:00.000-07:00

God's Big Backyard! Vacation Bible School Rocks...

Just for you girlie...! Yes, I know it's been too long, but geeeeez...I've been VBSing! You know you like that word La Te Da, Ha! Just for you :-) Anyhow...the week went by in a whirl. It was super fun, but super exhausting. "God's Big Backyard" had over 60 kids in attendance! The crafts were SUPER cool! (Of course, I was in charge of crafts for the week, LOL!) I can't forget to give a shout out to my girls who helped me out...I will forever be in your debt, Stacy my # 1 right-hand gal. She wasn't able to be there (she had to work, sniff...) but she totally helped out before hand and behind the scenes. I also had 3 other awesome gals...M.M. C.T. & D.M...you chicks rock! We had such a blast, but I have to admit I'm ready for a break...maybe a staycation of some sort. Moving on...

I did however, get a few little projects started and, low and behold, finished all while crafting my little heart away at VBS 5 days in a row! 3 purses & 2 aprons. I did consider napping when I wasn't setting up, shopping for, or tearing down crafts for VBS, but my little sewing machine continued to softly hum..."come sew, oh please come sew"...and so I did :-) They are all beauties, I'm very proud to say. Only one will get added to my shop, for the others already have homes.

A couple of my "J's" will be heading off to Cali w/ Bubby & Poppy to visit all the fam...so I will be tirelessly creating, designing, and sewing...I'm stoked! I already have the buzz...you know that feeling of anticipation, knowing something great is going to happen. It's a wonderful feeling...to know you found the "it" thing! Thank-you crafty-bloggers...for all your inspiration! Thank-you gf's who encourage, and thank-you to my 4 "J's"...you are my world, and without you my crafty hobbies would be worthless, I guess I would pretty much be worthless, LOL!

Aprons and purses...my addiction

Is it possible?

2008-07-22T15:11:00.000-07:00

...sure it is! I haven't spent a lot of time sewing these past couple of weeks due to the fact that I'm reorganizing my "life". I know, sounds a little dramatic, but it is a serious project for me. I've been introduced to the Fly Lady. For many of you, she's already a part of your life (lucky you!) but for some of us, well me for instance, I've just seen the "light". It's a great online community of bright, intelligent, fun, organized, not-so-organized, blessed women. Everyday this week I've been encouraged, supported, and given a pat on the back for my little baby steps toward becoming full-fledged Fly Lady. The Fly Lady has given me back my confidence that yes, I can keep things in order, clean, tidy, and de-cluttered. Of course we have to start with baby steps, that's what being a Fly Baby is all about. Learning new, little things, everyday and putting them into practice. Slowly these new routines become habits, and what a difference it makes in our home! I'm so excited about this new concept of perfectionism leading to procrastination...it's so true! Just think about it...how many times do you tell yourself things like..."I can't devote 3 hrs. to this project, so I'm not going to even begin..." or maybe..."I'm out of bathroom cleaner, so I'll clean it after I get to the store..." The list can go on, and on, right? These are kind of lame examples, but you get my drift, right? I love the fact that I get all my reminders sent straight to my cell in a text. For instance, in the morning I'm reminded to Swish and Swipe my bathrooms, later what's for dinner, and at the end of my day shine your sink! This is just a little sample of what the Fly Lady has done in my life this last week or so. It's definitely helped me realize that if I continue to be anal about my routines and methods, it will ultimately lead to lots of procrastination in my home. I hope you all go and check out the Fly Lady...she'll bless you, just like she did me, I know it!

New Stuff

2008-07-15T11:54:00.000-07:00

Black Rose Tote/Purse...

Inside view...

Thrifty finds...

2008-07-11T15:12:00.000-07:00

Hmmm...it's been brought to my attention that I've been slack'n, blog-slack'n that is. My Az girl made it clear that I need to get busy. So here it is...all of my awesome thrifty finds over the past week. I went thrift'n with the awesome mom and we found some great bargains. The glasses above, a set of 10, I found at a local antique store. The gal gave them to me for $15...WOW, I thought that was a deal! Funny, I just tossed out my old ice-cream maker the day I found this one, it was meant to be I guess. Az girl and I went shopping and came across the old Sears ice-cream maker and I snagged it up quick. Also found some awesome vintage pillow cases and table clothes. All in all, it's been a very productive week for me. I hammered out a custom ordered bag for one of my favorite barista's and will be delivering it to her today...I hope it's to her liking...I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

I've had an awesome visit with my dear Az girl. It's been so cool just sitting and chatting with her. I miss those mornings we spent drinking coffee, discussing life and all it's mysteries. Not that deep, mostly kids stuff, family stuff, and girlfriends stuff...you know the "stuff". Anyways just seeing her made me realize how much I missed her and how fortunate I am to call her friend. She's an amazing lady, mother, and friend. She's real, and that's hard to find most of the time. She doesn't' pretend and that's a quality that I admire most of all in a friend...thanks for being a part of my life girlie :-) God bless you and yours...

Frenchy Flair

2008-07-01T14:28:00.000-07:00

I made this beautiful purse for the best Mom in the world (of course that would be my Mom)! She giggled with glee as I handed it over to her. I had told her this particular bag (because of the rich fabric) would be heading over to a store that I'm consigning purses at. I think she possibly was feeling a tad bit neglected due to the fact I had not made her a purse yet. Honestly, I really didn't think she would like carrying a cloth purse, boy was I wrong! She was very happy with it and she's been "showing it off" to everyone she meets :-) Mom's are the greatest, aren't they? Talk about my biggest fan, besides my husband, she's my biggest supporter and partner. She's the one I go to when I run into irritating little probs, when I need to bounce ideas off someone, when I need advice with a particular project (not mention life advice), when I can't quite figure something out, and pretty much everything in between. God certainly blessed me with an incredibly smart, talented, fun, beautiful, accepting, accomplished, loving, encouraging, kind, honest mother. She means the world to me... love you Mom...enjoy your Frenchy Flair purse!

Polka Dots & Paisleys

2008-06-28T16:08:00.000-07:00

This little apron is a favorite of mine! I think it's so cute...how can you go wrong with polka dots, paisleys, and rick-rack? This little honey would definitely help you out in the kitchen...don't you think your cooking would be much tastier if you wore this number while preparing it? I do believe so...it's up for sale if anyone is interested. Did I mention it is reversable? Two cuties for the price of one! Any takers?

Two Awsome Deliveries!

2008-06-27T21:15:00.000-07:00

Today was completely wonderful! My best friend who I've known for many moons delivered her very first! Lily Grace made her grand appearance at 10:04 am, she weighed in at a whopping 9 lbs. 12 oz. and 21" long...my, my, I believe it was time for her to show her beautiful face whether she was ready or not :-) The delivery went smooth...Cesarean of course. We were all so excited to meet her, especially her mama and daddy! They both have waited and prayed for this day for a long time...God truly blessed all of us this morning! Of course my 4 J's couldn't get enough of her...they LOVE babies :-) My honey couldn't get enough of her either...good thing we took care of that situation a loooong time ago or he would be trying for another! We love her dearly, and we're all so very happy we've finally got to meet her.

Secondly...some new fabric arrived in my mailbox this afternoon! I'm so excited...two great things in one day (I'm really not spoiled!) I can't wait to get on that sewing machine and start sewing. I have lots of projects already in the works...and a couple of items ordered I need to get busy. This weekend's going to be a jam-packed, loaded to the max kind of weekend...wish me luck!

Beginings...

2008-06-26T13:08:00.000-07:00

O.K...what's this you ask? Why the weird photo of a calender date? Well I've decided to make some changes...starting by taking steps toward a healthier lifestyle. Why a personal trainer, well honestly I'm not a self-motivated person. I wish I was, truly, but I'm not and I recognize that. I met with a gal who was SUPER nice and very good at being a personal trainer. I think this may be exactly what I need right now. And...if paying for it is what's going to give me a good kick-start, then by golly, here's my $$$. Thanks Terri, your spot-on! I'll be meeting with her twice a week and we'll be going over weight training, cardio, and diet. She did say she really is a butt-kicker, so we'll see on Monday, that's my first "real" session. I'm nervous but excited, too...I really expect to make some serious commitments to getting physically fit. I hope I don't run out of steam...that's sort of my M.O. (is that the right term?) Anyways...I tend to give up when the going gets tough. I hope that all my bloggy gals continue to check in w/ me, I wouldn't mind a little pick-me-up now and then. I think that's something that will really help me stay focused and determined. So here we go...let's see what happens!

Camping Habit...

2008-06-24T16:43:00.000-07:00

Camping again...I can't help sharing a little about this trip over the mountains. It was soooo beautiful and sunny, we actually started to sweat and had to change into our shorts one day, YIPEE! We were very excited about that. The pictures above are the beginning of a hike up Sweat'n Hill...I didn't feel quite right about posting the pictures after the hike...not pretty, but we did make it and I have pictures to prove it! The view from the tip-top of the hike is amazing especially with Old Glory flying high...I think camping is fast becoming a habit for the Watts Crew :-)

Just a quick Hello

2008-06-19T11:37:00.000-07:00

Here's a purse that I started working on yesterday...I love the brown and green. It was super easy to put together and it's made out of nice quality fabric. I'm really happy with the way it turned out. I'm thinking the next purse I make like this I'll use a firm interfacing to give it a stand-up-and-salute shape...won't that be cute!

It will be a few days before I'm back at the sewing machine...we're going camping again! Yipeeeee!!! I'm actually supposed to be packing right now, but I couldn't stand not posting something before I leave :-) Have an awesome weekend and keep your fingers crossed it doesn't rain on us again...

2008-06-18T11:58:00.000-07:00

Summer are you ever going to visit us here in the beautiful Northwest? I keep asking this question. It's so hard to be inspired when I'm in desperate need of sunlight. Yesterday was absolutely gorgeous...I took some snapshots of my very pretty white garden. Today I'm sad to say that the sun has once again deserted us and the clouds have settled in. I am thankful that there is no rain...yet. We're all keeping our fingers and toes crossed that the rain will stay at bay and we can have a sunny camping trip this weekend!

About my all white garden...I decided to have one big flower bed in our backyard that is completely white. At first people thought it was a bad idea...that I would get really tired of the white...maybe that it would become humdrum, I don't know. All of my peeps seem to feel the need to advise me on my decisions quite often :-) At last I can speak boldly and say, "You were all wrong" I love my white garden and I'm so happy I followed my instincts! Some of my flowers have just a touch of pink to them...thinking the flower would be white when I bought them. Thankfully I didn't end up with blue, purple, or red flowers popping out. I do have other flower beds that I can transfer the colored flowers to, but I haven't had to do any of that yet, whew! These roses and peonies are just a couple of my fav's...enjoy!