PezJunky - Crafting Blog

Alphabet Photobook

2012-01-20T14:15:00.001-08:00

Here in Washington we've been having a lot of snow. So, the kids and I have been stuck at home all week. One of our boredom busting activities yesterday was to make an alphabet book. I had them go around and collect toys for each letter of the alphabet, and I photographed them on a white background. I made them into book pages, and uploaded them to Shutterfly. Before too long our new ABC book will arrive, full of their toys. If the snow continues, I may do one in Hindi too.

You can see the whole alphabet on my Flickr set.

Christmas Crafts

2011-12-25T18:08:00.001-08:00

Now that Christmas is over, I can share some things I made for gifts.
Gingerbread dress. It's a peasant style dress made from brown corduroy, with fun accents to make it gingerbread-like of course

A Buttercup Bag. The interior matches the flower. Hope my sister-in-law likes it, it got great reviews on some of the crafting sites I visit.

Lego sack/mat. It can be laid out flat (a circle) to play legos on, then just pull the drawstrings and it makes for easy clean-up. I made them for 2 of my nephews, and gave them some duplo's too.

Halloween Costumes

2011-12-25T18:04:00.000-08:00

I know it's almost 2 months late, but here are the Halloween costumes I made this year.
Tinkerbell

Witch

Dracula (my mom made the cape years ago for one of my brothers, I made the cumberbund)

Lion

Split-front Ruffle Dress

2011-10-30T10:00:00.000-07:00

I am not a big fan of wearing ruffles, but my girls sure like them. I made this dress after seeing something similar in an advertisement. I couldn't find where it came from, so I made my own version.
The top part was a modification of the Junebug dress at Craftiness is not Optional. I had to enlarge the pattern first, because the free pattern is for a 2T size and my younger girl is bigger than that. I didn't do a separate flap in the front, but combined it on one side so there is only one off-set split with buttons. I also didn't bother putting elastic in the sleeves.

For the bottom I made 2 a-line skirts (a bit wider than the bodice circumference so it would gather a little). The bottom one in purple the top in the bodice fabric. The purple one is longer than the top one so it will show all the way around. I put rows of 3 inch ruffles down the front of the purple skirt. For the top skirt I split the front (to show off the ruffles) and made sure the split corresponded to the one in the bodice. It was pretty easy to wing it, so I didn't patterns for the bottom.
Sorry I didn't take pictures during the creation and do a real tutorial.

Airplane Party Printables

2011-10-11T11:28:00.000-07:00

I like to make the printables for a party, but I know that not everyone else does. So, I'm giving you mine to use if you like. The above picture is what I made. I have taken out the 'airline' name to give you a blank picture to print. I used orange and blue colors because it's easy to find orange things this time of year and blue is a good complimentary color for it, but you can change the colors of any of the items to suit your needs. Clicking on the photo will get you to the download.

Airplane Birthday Party for a 5 year old

2011-10-10T00:06:00.000-07:00

My second child turned 5 last week. He loves airplanes (like his daddy, who is in the Air Force). So, we had an airplane themed party. I got lots of ideas around the internet, especially on Pinterest (love that site!). Here is what we did:
I decorated in blue and orange. There was a bunting made of paper airplanes (my hubby made them), balloon clouds, and a small backdrop of cloud fabric I had in my stash. I made signage for check-in, food court, restroom, and baggage claim. It was cute.

As the kids came, they colored some luggage tags (from Oriental Trading).

They played "find the planes in the clouds". We put some small toy planes in a box of packing peanuts and let the kids dig around for them. Then they played with the planes for a bit.

Put together and decorated some foam gliders (from Oriental Trading) and flew those for a bit. While they played I got things cleaned up for lunch, our in-flight meal.
In the lunch boxes was a sandwich (choice of turkey or ham), some orange slices and some chips. They also got some Sky Jello (recipe found here...except I used store bought Cool Whip instead of whipping my own cream). We had some little servings of Cheez-its, Goldfish crakcers, blue jelly beans, and blue chocolate covered pretzels. And there were water bottles with our little printed labels on them.

After lunch they played for a bit and then wanted cake and ice cream. I used a Wilton shaped pan for the airplane cake. I think it turned out pretty good (and tasty).After cake came presents and more playing. When it was time for the guests to go, we gave them a goody bag/box and a marshmallow propeller pop to go. The goody box had some aviator sunglasses, a paratrooper toy, bubbles, york peppermint pattie bites (blue and white), orange gummies, and a plane made of candy (found here). And they also got to take home their luggage tag and foam glider.

Everyone seemed to have lots of fun. Now on to the other 3 birthdays this fall (we have lots of fall birthdays in my family).

Halloween Treat Tag

2011-09-27T13:48:00.000-07:00

As a cute and quick gift for some friends, in honor of Halloween, I am giving them a snack. I found some plastic pumpkin candy dishes at the dollar store and am filling them with a Halloween snack mix I found at Munchkin Munchies. I have also made the gift tag seen above, to go on them (I printed it on orange paper too). You can click on the photo to download it for yourself. It's cute and generic enough for all kinds of treats for Halloween.

Vintage Dress Pattern

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

I have a lot of vintage patterns (thanks to thrift stores). I decided that I would use one before my younger daughter out grows it. I found a fun fabric (kids can get away with all kinds of bold prints) and made this dress.

The pattern also has a pair of pants with it, maybe I'll make some blue ones for her.

Sewing a Saree (sari)

2011-09-07T10:59:00.000-07:00

I made a saree for my oldest daughter this summer. The blouse was pretty basic, nothing fancy. Because she is so young, I didn't even have to do darts or any shaping. The fabric is silky and frays a lot, so I put used french seams to keep things together and make it not itchy for her (and so I wouldn't have to line the whole thing).

Then I pre-stitched the saree to make it easier for her to put on by herself. I put elastic in the back, and a hook closure for the side, then sewed down the pleats in the front for easy tucking.

She is still getting used to wearing it, and prefers the salwars and lenghas. But I think she still likes the bright pink and gold, and how grown up she looks in it.

Dancing Sign

2011-07-21T10:31:00.000-07:00

My oldest takes ballet classes. The owner of the studio (and her teacher) is a friend of mine. So, when the end of the year came, I wanted to give her a little teacher gift. Well, it turned into a big teacher appreciation gift. I am so proud of how it turned out I thought I'd share it with everyone.
It is a 10x20 size 'photo'. I had to buy a collage frame and then just get rid of the multi-photo mat to frame it (there is a serious lack of 10x20 photo frames out there). Another idea for this photo would be to get it printed on canvas, or maybe decoupage it onto a canvas.
Clicking on the photo will take you to a download page if you want to have this for yourself.

Junk Drawer Purse

2011-07-18T18:39:00.001-07:00

On Saturday I attended a 'make it take it' day at my church. I decided to make a 'Junk Drawer Purse'. It's a little place to put all those things that you want to have with you, but are so small they either get lost or buried in the bottom of your purse (or diaper bag in my case).
Here is a quick tutorial (sorry I didn't take photos during the making)
Supplies:
Outer fabric- 9.5in x 12in, and 8in x 2in for band
Inner contrasting fabric- 7.5in x 11in
6 snack sized plastic bags (I used Ziplock bags)
Staples (optional, but helpful)
Thread

To make:
Optional- Stack 3 plastic bags and staple together close to the bottom, so they don't shift while sewing. Repeat with the other 3 bags. The bags are quite slippery, so stapling just helps keep them in place and makes sewing easier.
Layer inner and outer fabrics with wrong sides together, matching centers.
Place 3 bags (stapled together) on top of inner fabric, along the center, and 3 bags on the opposite side. Take the fabric band and press under 1/4 inch on both long sides. Place this on top of the bags and fabric pieces, along the center. Stitch it together using a zigzag stitch along each long side. (see photo for reference)

Now all that's left is to finish the outside edges. Press over 1/4 inch on the long sides. Press another 1/4 inch and stitch in place. Repeat with the short sides.

To create a closure, use either bottons and loops or snaps. Then fill and use as desired.

Matching Outfits

2011-07-18T18:28:00.000-07:00

I usually avoid super matching outfits. But every so often I do make matching things for my kids. So here are some recent matching things I have made.
Bowties for my boys (using this tutorial from Prudent Baby)

A circle skirt for my oldest (used this tutorial on Made for the math). I encased a thinner elastic band, instead of having it exposed like in the tutorial.

A matching dress for my younger girl. This was my inspiration. I used an old simplicity pattern for the bodice, and did a circle skirt for the bottom. And let me take a moment to say how much I hate hemming a circle skirt! Totally takes away from the convenience of no seams. My husband of course suggested using duct tape or staples. Maybe next time.

Onesie Vest

2011-07-03T20:43:00.000-07:00

I made this cute onesie vest for my baby boy. I feel like I don't sew for the boys enough. It was super easy and quick to make. Anyway, you can find the tutorial at B is for Boy!

Also, a quick shot of my younger daughter wearing the pillowcase dress from my last post.

Some Summer Fun

2011-07-01T11:44:00.000-07:00

Summer is finally here. The kids got out of school a bit late because of snow make-up days. But, now that they are home all day, we are filling some of our days with crafting. Here are a few things I've done these past couple weeks.

Made a bubble container I saw HERE. We bought some big bubble wands at Target (in the dollar section), and needed to be able to fill up the trays. This is a great way to store homemade bubble solution while still being able to dispense it without too much mess. They can even refill little bubble bottles. I didn't know where to easily buy glycerin, so I used a recipe for bubble solution that uses liquid dish soap, water and corn syrup, because I already had those things on hand.
I made my own label to go on it. You can have my label to print if you want it (photo is clickable). It is about 3in high and 9in wide. I ran it through my Xyron sticker maker to attach it to my plastic jug. It could also be easily attached with clear tape.

Made some cute hair bows and clips for a friends baby shower. I used various free tutorials I found around the web.

Yoyo flowers: http://theadventuresofroryandjess.blogspot.com/2010/04/yo-yo-clip-tutorial.html
Bows and Covered alligator clips: http://www.girlythingsbows.com/
Felt flowers: no tut, just layered some flower shapes and hot glued
Ribbon rosette: http://www.cuteasafox.com/2010/03/no-sew-ribbon-rosette-tutorial.html
Tiny felt flower (unseen in this photo, sorry): http://www.makeit-loveit.com/2011/03/baby-hair-accessories-wool-felt.html

A quick pillowcase dress I made for my younger daughter. I found this cute pillowcase at a local thrift store. After a thorough washing I used THIS tutorial.

Paisley Invitations

2011-06-12T11:40:00.000-07:00

I am slowly putting together stuff for my 10th anniversary party. It's only 10 months away. I've put together an invitation (as seen above). I will be printing http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifthttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifhem on my home printer at 4 to a page. I am also sharing the blank paisley card with all of you, so you too can print a cute card with a colorful paisley border.

You can find a PDF with 4 to a page HERE

Oh, and if you like the fake Hindi font, it's called Samarkan, and you can download it free from dafont

Airplane Party Invitations

2011-06-11T21:41:00.000-07:00

My son will be turning 5 in the fall and will be having an airplane themed birthday party. I've made some invitations that look like boarding passes (name and info have been changed, of course).

I am sharing the blank template with you for free. If you want it, just click the photo. Also, you can get a personalized barcode from several free places online (if you want to add that to the invite, like in the example). It'd be cute if it said 'Ben is five' or something.

Mom, I'm Bored!

2011-06-11T21:32:00.000-07:00

I hate hearing that phrase in my house. My kids have lots of toys and books and plenty of imagination. They should never be bored. So, for this summer I made an "I'm Bored" jar.

I just took a 1 quart wide mouthed mason jar, put a cute sunshine label on it (image is clickable if you want to print it yourself), and filled it with papers telling them things to do (lots of fun stuff, some chores). When they tell me they are bored, they must choose a paper out of the jar and do whatever it says.
If you want my list of things to do, CLICK HERE

Another Purple Dress

2011-06-08T21:23:00.000-07:00

Using some leftover purple paisley fabric from my older daughter's dress, I made a dress for my younger daughter

I also made a matching fabric rose for her hair (using THIS tutorial)

Wedding Anniversary

2011-06-03T11:14:00.000-07:00

I got married at 19 years old. We were in college and poorer than poor. We had a small ceremony in a friends backyard and no real 'reception' to speak of other than people eating cake after the ceremony. My husband's family couldn't even be there because they are from a different country and couldn't afford to fly to the US at the time. Well, 9 years have gone by already and I really want to do something special for our 10th anniversary. We have more money now than we did then, and I want my family and my husband's family to meet. I have 11 months to plan an awesome anniversary party. I am also planning on making the decorations and things myself, being the crafter and DIY-er that I am.
Since my husband is Indian, we are going with a fun and festive Bollywood theme. Rich colors, lots of bling, spicy food, and tons of fun.
Here is my dreamboard for it

Sewing Some Dresses

2011-05-24T14:24:00.000-07:00

Got even more sewing done this week (boy I feel productive!). Made dresses for my two girls.
Pattern: Simplicity 2377

Pattern: Simplicity 5234

Valentines

2011-05-21T13:40:00.001-07:00

I know this is very late, but here are some photos of what valentines my kids made for their school classes this year.

Homemade chocolate covered cookies (oreos)

Homemade chocolate suckers

Summer Sewing

2011-05-21T12:01:00.000-07:00

Made a romper for the baby. He doesn't fit it yet, but then again, it's also not that warm yet.

A sun dress for my younger girl

A toaster cover for my mom on her birthday. It's an odd shape, so I had to make up my own pattern.

More Knitting

2011-05-21T11:59:00.001-07:00

For my oldest, a purse to go with her Easter Dress

Eyelet sweater for a baby shower gift

Owl hat for my older son

Bun holder for my older daughter, to wear to ballet class

Earflap hat for my younger daughter

Another neat hat for my younger daughter

More knitting for Baby

2011-05-21T11:56:00.000-07:00

Before the baby was born I did some more knitting
Booties

Hat

Hat and Diaper Cover

Bear Hat

Owl Hat

Quick Bassinet Cover Tutorial

2011-01-29T19:48:00.000-08:00

So, a few people have asked about a tutorial for my bassinet cover. While I don't have step by step photos, I will give you a general idea of how I did it. Here is the photo as a refresher for what it looks like:

I started by measuring my bassinet. I don't know how much difference there might be between brands and styles, so I suggest that you measure yours before cutting any fabric.

There are 5 basic parts to the cover: bottom, long side, short side, band, and skirt. The bottom goes at the bottom of the bassinet, the mattress goes on top of it. The long and short sides are the interior sides of the bassinet. If your bassinet is rectangular, you have 2 long sides and 2 short sides. The band fits closely over the top outer edge of the bassinet. And the skirt is the rest of the outside, with the ruffle at the top and hem at the bottom.

Here are the measurements of my fabric for each piece, with a 1/2 inch seam allowance. My bassinet is sightly oval shaped, and the vertical sides flare out a little, which is why I have rounded corners on the bottom piece and trapezoid shape on the short side pieces. The band is made from 2 strips that are 4.5x44 inches. The skirt is made from 3 pieces that are 26x44 inches (my fabric was 44 inches wide).

I started by sewing together the long and short sides. Then I sewed it to the bottom piece. This makes a little basket kind of shape. I sewed together the 2 band strips into a loop, then sewed that to the top of the side pieces.

I did the skirt last. I sewed the 26 inch sides together first. Then basted the top edge (for the ruffle). Make the ruffle, pin it to the band, and sew it in place. Last make the hem. I made mine about 24 inches from the band to the ground, and it doesn't quite touch the ground. If you want it to reach all the way to the ground, hem accordingly.

I hope that makes some sort of sense, I'm not good at making patterns or tutorials.

Bench Seat Cushion

2011-01-28T20:14:00.000-08:00

I bought this bench over a year ago, and got the materials for a cushion shortly after. Well, I finally got around to making it (yay for pregnancy nesting).
It is a simple rectangle with 4 inch foam inside. Only took me 3 hours to get it done, including the hand stitching at the end. I should have dome this a while ago.

White Baptism Dress

2011-01-12T19:40:00.000-08:00

In October, my oldest child got baptized into our church. For the occasion she wanted a white dress. We couldn't find one we liked in any stores, so I decided to make one. She picked out the pattern, all fluffy and lacy (it's from Butterick). She loves it.

Bassinet Cover

2011-01-12T19:22:00.000-08:00

With a new baby, I feel the need to have new things. One of the things I felt I absolutely must have is a new cover for our bassinet. I already have 2 covers, but they were for other kids and in other apartments. Now we have our own house and the other covers just don't go with our wall color. So, I set about sewing a new cover. At one time I had a pattern. That is long gone. So, I just took measurements from the previous cover and winged it.
We don't know the gender of our baby, so I chose some brown fabric. It has tan, green and blue circles on it (which go with the blue walls nicely). If we have a boy I have blue and green blankets which will match perfectly. If we end up with a girl, I have plenty of pink and purple blankets that will go just as well with the dark brown.

I think it turned out pretty well.

Frilly Apron

2010-12-15T19:30:00.000-08:00

I am not a girly girl. I was always a tomboy. I can appreciate dressing up every once in a while, but not all the time. My sister-in-law is the complete opposite. For Christmas I made her this apron. She once blogged about how much she liked this pattern and the bright colors. I didn't use the same fabrics, but I tried to get bright colors and floral-ish patterns. Hope she appreciates my efforts considering I would never have chosen this myself.

Items for our new baby

2010-12-15T19:19:00.000-08:00

I am pregnant and due in March. And since baby things are so fun and quick to knit, I have been doing plenty of that. We aren't finding out whether it's a boy or girl until the big day, so I have to find neutral patterns and colors. Here are some of my projects.

Booties

Crocheted hat

Sweater

I found all these patterns free through Ravelry (best knitting community site ever!).

Holiday Vest

2010-12-15T19:16:00.000-08:00

My daughters have matching dresses for Christmas. Their idea, not mine. I couldn't find a good matching outfit for my son, so I decided to knit him a vest. It's green and sparkly, just like the dresses. He is very excited to wear it. I know this can't last forever, so I am taking full advantage. The pattern can be found for free at Naturally Caron.

Eyeglass Chains

2010-12-15T19:11:00.000-08:00

My grandmother loved her eyeglass chain that I made her last year. She wore it all the time. In fact, she wore it out. I had to replace the monofilament (I replaced it with metal wire) and the connector (replace the thread/fabric one with a plastic one). This year I made her a few more. Now she can change them out to match her outfits. I also made one for my oldest child, who recently became a full-time glasses wearer. Hers is the one on the right.

Blue Vest

2010-12-15T19:06:00.000-08:00

I recently finished knitting the Pembroke Vest. I made some changes. I knit it with the 2 year old size for the width, but the 4 year old size for the length (my son is very skinny for his height). I also changed the middle cable pattern to the one from THIS PATTERN. Both of those are free patterns, if you are interested in knitting them.
It was a lot of work, but worth it. My son loves it, and wore it to church the day after I finished it.

Free Giraffe Baby Shower Invite

2010-11-04T11:48:00.000-07:00

I made this invite sometime last year. But, I completely forgot about posting it. I know that I'd seen something like this online somewhere, but have completely forgotten where that was. I made this from memory when a friend was looking for a giraffe invitation. Anyway, here it is in 3 color versions: blue, pink, and yellow. (click on the image to go to the full-sized jpeg for downloading)

And as a bonus, a different kind of giraffe card entirely

Cabled Pink Dress

2010-07-06T17:44:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I actually finished this dress in May. Anyway, here are the photos.

The pattern is Bliss by Allegra Wermuth

Some free templates

2010-03-08T11:12:00.000-08:00

On a photography website I frequent they have a section of forums dedicated to people doing freebies for others. I have participated in both giving and receiving these freebies. In the spirit of giving, I am offering them to you as well. They are photo cards for invitations and announcements. You just put your photo in the blank spot and add your info (using any photo/drawing software). Enjoy!
Preview:

Download

Preview:

Download

Preview:

Download

Preview: front

back:

Download Front Back

Preview: front

Back

Download Front Back

Ravelympics Hat

2010-02-25T16:34:00.000-08:00

I am participating in the "Ravelympics". It's an event through the knitting community website Ravelry. During the Olympics, you 'compete' in different knitting events by finishing knitting projects. Here is a felted hat I made for one event.
Before felting:

After felting:

Update-Camera Strap Cover

2010-02-15T22:10:00.000-08:00

In doing a self-portrait every day for the month of February, I got a shot with the camera strap cover. Here it is!

Lace Shawl

2010-02-15T22:06:00.001-08:00

For Christmas I had planned on knitting a lace shawl for my grandmother. Well, I didn't get it done. But, her birthday is in January, and I did get it done in time for that. It has pearl buttons as a closure too.

Knit Headband

2010-02-15T22:03:00.000-08:00

I made a knit headband for my oldest daughter. She loves pink, and putting her hair up. It just ties on in the back.
Here is my younger daughter modeling it.

Dan's DNA

2010-02-15T22:00:00.000-08:00

For a handmade Christmas gift for my new nephew Daniel I knitted a toy DNA model. It's kind of funny, because when my brother was younger he always said he was going to be a geneticist when he grew up. He didn't, but with an early start, his son might. I even spelled out his name in the base pairs.

Free 5x7 photo card templates

2010-01-12T21:54:00.000-08:00

I was looking around for a free red damask card template and could find one. So I made one, well actually I made 5. The cards use the free damask print from Pixels and Ice Cream (who has other wonderful things too). Hope you enjoy using them.
Download Here

Chef Hat and Apron

2010-01-08T23:42:00.000-08:00

One of my sister in laws was in culinary school. She loves to cook. I made this hat and apron for her 2 1/2 year old, so he can cook with her.

Mini Tag Blanket

2010-01-08T23:40:00.000-08:00

I made this cute tag blanket for one of my nephews. The fabric is nice and soft (and cute). And it's a great size for taking it along in the diaper bag.

Meat Rub

2010-01-08T23:36:00.000-08:00

Found a great All Purpose meat rub recipe at All Recipes. Well, I didn't follow the recipe exactly (I never do). My brother likes to grill, and I thought it would be nice thing for him to have on hand the next time he fires up the bbq.

Diaper Pouch and Changing Pad

2010-01-08T23:17:00.000-08:00

Now that Christmas is over I'll share some of my other crafty gifts.
Here is a cute diaper pouch and matching changing pad I made for my sister in law who just had her second baby. She has several purses, and this should come in handy to just slip a few diapers and wipes in one of them in a hurry.

Now that Christmas is over I'll share some of my other crafty

Dec 11 - Holidays in Hand

2009-12-11T17:15:00.000-08:00

I love parties. Almost any party really. Holiday parties are always fun. People get into the festive spirit and have a great time. In past holiday seasons I have been to wrapping parties, cookie parties, white elephant parties, 'journey to bethlehem' parties, progressive dinners, and open houses. They were each fun and special in their own ways.
Every year our church has a Christmas party. I am the pianist, and have been very busy this season. I love to hear the caroling, and the children singing.

Dec 10 - Holidays in Hand

2009-12-10T16:45:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite sights to see is all the Christmas lights during the holidays. When I was growing up we lived near an area famous for their lights. We would walk around the neighborhood since the line of cars was miles long. It was so much fun to see everyones yards decked out with decorations and lights.
Now that I have moved away from there, I still try to take my kids to places with lots of lights. I now live near a place that hosts a "Lights of Christmas" village. An entire summer camp area is decorated. And there are horse rides and train rides, Santa, and 'Bruce the talking spruce' christmas tree.

Dec 9 - Holidays in Hand

2009-12-09T11:32:00.000-08:00

I love to read. I have been reading since I was 4 years old, and was read to long before that. I like to read holiday stories to my kids. My mother has a Christmas-story-a-day notebook full of wonderful tales. I like to borrow it and read some to my kids. "The Forgotten Carols" is one of my favorite stories. I like to read it and play or listen to music that goes along with it.
On Christmas eve we also like to read the Christmas story as found in Luke chapter 2 of the Bible. When I was little my brothers and I would act it out as well.

Dec 8 - Holidays in Hand

2009-12-08T11:23:00.000-08:00

The first Christmas after I got married, my parents gave us an advent calendar. Not a hanging one, but a whole wooden box filled with little numbered drawers to put candy and things into. It has our last name on the front along with a Santa.
I use it every year and put in little treats for the kids. They love to open up the doors and drawers to find the little surprises. It's a great way for them to count down the days until Christmas.

Dec 7 - Holidays in Hand

2009-12-07T10:56:00.000-08:00

Food, like it or not, is a big part of the holidays. In my family, there are lots of special recipes that we make only at this time of year. A few years ago I made a recipe scrapbook of all our holiday baked goods. One for my mom, one for my sister-in-law, and one for me. It had many cookies, plus peanut brittle, nuts and bolts, and the oven egg omlete that we have every christmas morning.
We always gather with my mom's family for a big Christmas eve dinner. When I was younger we would also do Christmas morning with them. Then for the afternoon and Christmas day dinner, we would go to my father's family. Now that we live further away from the extended family, we just do Christmas here with my family. Someday we hope to go to Fiji to be with my husbands family for Christmas.
I love getting together with family and friends, and sharing a meal together. Growing up it was always a great time to just chat and enjoy each others company. I hope to continue these traditions of togetherness for years to come.

Dec 6 - Holidays in Hand

2009-12-06T10:50:00.000-08:00

There are many holiday symbols that have meaning to me. One of my favorite decorations is a little white navtivity set I made a few years ago when I first got married. I love nativity sets. Reminding me of the 'reason for the season'. It's importnant to me to keep Christ in Christmas. This year, we live in a small house, and there are 4 little kids running around it. So, I haven't put it out, but I did put out a different nativity set my mother got for me. It sits just out of reach too.

Dec 5 - Holidays in Hand

2009-12-05T09:29:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas music. I always sing in my church choir (well, I’m playing the piano this year). And I love to hear the Christmas radio station when I’m in the car. I would be hard pressed to find a favorite. Last year my DH deployed to Iraq just a few days before Christmas. Songs about being lonely at Christmas made me cry and really touched me. I have always liked “I heard the bells on Christmas day”. It is a nice reminder that God still loves us and that there can be peace and good will. As far as pop music goes, I like the Beach Boys song “Little Saint Nick”. I learned all the words by the time I was in 3rd grade. My children’s favorite, for now anyway, is “Jingle Bells”.

Finnish Star

2009-12-04T21:27:00.001-08:00

We got an artifical Christmas tree this year. And the nice light up star I have is just too heavy for our little tree. So, the kids and I decided to make our own new star for the top. I used a two-sided piece of scrapbook paper. One side is red with white snowflakes, and the other side is solid green. I glued it together using gluedots. I used THESE DIRECTIONS. And it turned out great, if I do say so myself.

Leggings

2009-12-04T21:20:00.000-08:00

Another handmade gift this year: leggings. Well, they are partly handmade. I took some adult knee-high socks, and turned them into leggings for my daughter. She does ballet, and I'm sure her legs get cold, especially during the winter. So, I made her 2 pairs.
To make them I cut the socks off just above the heel. Then cut again just after the heel, and again right before the toe. I used the foot section as a lower cuff. I folded it in half, wrong sides together, and sewed it to the cut edge of the big sock part. I hope that makes sense! Sorry I didn't take pictures of the process.

Eyeglass Chain

2009-12-04T21:17:00.000-08:00

One of my handmade Christmas gifts this year is an eyeglass chain. I have no problem putting it up on my blog, because the recipient doesn't own a computer, so won't know about it. SHH! Don't tell her!

Dec 4 - Holidays in Hand

2009-12-04T16:27:00.000-08:00

I have a couple of holiday decorations that I inherited. One is a crocheted boot that my great grandmother made. My grandfather had it in his home for years, and then it got passed down to me (the first grandchild to get married and have kids). I also have a hanging jingle bell thing from my mother. It doesn’t have any particular value, but I remember it being on our front door as a child, and my mother was getting rid of it, so I took it. Now it hangs on my front door.
My mother loves Christmas. She plays Christmas music all year around in her car. All year she watches Christmas movies while ironing. But, we don’t let her decorate for Christmas until the day after Thanksgiving. So, this has become the tradition. After we do any black Friday shopping, we go to my parent’s house and decorate. She has about 16 giant plastic totes full of decorations and lights and things. I only have 2 totes, but I figure that someday I will probably have just as many, since I love the holidays too.

Dec 3 - Holidays in Hand

2009-12-03T21:28:00.000-08:00

JOY
During the holidays there is a lot of joy, happiness and good cheer going around. Finding the perfect gift for someone. Caroling with friends. Doing secret santa. There are tons of things you can do to spread joy. Spending time with family and friends always brings me joy. And around the holidays we usually get to spend extra time with those we love. As my children get older, I try to include them more in the festivities. This, of course, brings them joy. They love to help put out decorations, bake cookies, and hang ornaments on the tree (or take them off, as my 1 year old does). I hope my holidays can always be filled with joy. And I wish everyone else joy in the season too.

Dec 2 - Holidays in Hand

2009-12-02T09:37:00.000-08:00

Still without photoshop :(

Reading Welcome Home for the Holidays helps to put things into perspective. As the holiday season gets into swing I can't help but think of the chores to be done, crafts to be finished, and recipes to be made. But having a clean, well-decorated home full of yumy foods isn't what makes a house inviting. It's the love and warmth that you put into it. The kids probably won't remember how clean (or not clean) the house was, but they will remember the magic of the season. I hope to not get bogged down in the details and create a loving home that family and friends would feel welcome to visit.

Remember cooking with an older relative...
I have always loved baking with my grandma. I would help stir in chocolaate chips, measure flours, or best of all, taste test. We also made gingerbread houses with her every year (and got to eat the extra candy). I learned to make stuffing at her house, and how to get the gravy 'just so'.
There are certain family recipes that are made every year. A few years ago I made special small recipe scrapbooks for me, my mom, and my sister-in-law with all the family Christmas recipes. I think it's wonderful that we have these traditions.

Dec 1 - Holidays in Hand

2009-12-01T15:26:00.000-08:00

My main computer is on the fritz (again!) and I can't make any layouts yet. But, I can still do the journaling for the Jessica Sprague Holidays in Hand project.

My thoughts about my family's holiday values...
Most of my values are religion based. As a Christian, I celebrate the birth of Jesus this time of year. The idea of love and family is very important to me. My parents taught me about the 'true meaning of Christmas' from a very early age, and I try to teach my children the same thing. While it's fun to get gifts, and to give them, I try not to focus on presents but on the spirit of the season. Hopefully my children are learning these things too, and some day will pass along these values to their children as well.

My earliest holiday memory...
I remember lots of things having to do with Christmas. If you know my mother, you know that she plays Christmas music all year around. It is by far her favorite time of year. She decorates like crazy. I remember always getting a special ornament each year from her or my grandparents. There are special family recipes that we always make. We have done nativity plays at my grandparents home. One year my uncle even dressed up as Santa to give us presents on Christmas Eve. I don't know which memory is the earliest, but they are always happy.

Holidays in Hand- some premade layouts

2009-11-23T20:36:00.000-08:00

For Jessica Sprague's Holidays in Hand class we got a cool set of papers and a page template. I added some papers from some freebie Shabby Princess kits and made these pages for my album. I have 8 pages in total. So I will rotate them about 4 times. I figure that with changing the pictures and adding appropriate embellishments and journaling that they will look different enough. Hopefully this will help cut down the time I spend on scrapping the memories during the holiday season, and I will spend more time make the memories.
If I have time I will post my pages as I complete them in during the month of December. By the end of the month I will have a fun Christmas album ready for printing.

Holidays in Hand- Day 3

2009-11-18T11:04:00.000-08:00

Yesterday for the 'Holidays in Hand' project I got to download some "prompt cards". They have a prompt for something to write about, photograph, do, make, and remember. Today Jessica Sprague put up lists of things we can choose from (or we could make our own) for the make and do portions. I have gleaned from the to do list. Here are some things I want to do during the Christmas Season:

•Put up the Christmas tree, or add an ornament to it
•Sing a holiday song before bed
•Visit a local light display
•Make your favorite treat together
•Go for a walk, or look out your largest window at the stars together
•Read from your favorite holiday story
•Watch a christmas movie with popcorn
•Bake and take gifts to neighbors
•Play board games
•Have breakfast for dinner
•Visit a place you’ve been meaning to go together: a museum, a walking trail...
•Play your favorite christmas song
•Have an indoor picnic
•Wrap a toy and take it to a charity christmas tree
•Celebrate the longest night of the year (December 21) by lighting extra candles
•Have a video chat with a friend or family member who is far away
•Have a fondue night! chocolate and cheese dipped goodies.
•Make Ornaments, either for your home or as small gifts
•Make cards for teachers
•Make homemade apple pie
•Make a peppermint milkshake
•Decorate holiday cookies
•Address your holiday cards together
•Visit some of the spectacular holiday decorations in your town
•Draw and send postcards to cousins
•Slip a little note of holiday love into a backpack, laptop case, lunchbox, or set it on a pillow
•Get in touch--call, write a letter, email, send a card--with a friend or relative whom you haven't heard from in a long time.
•Get some blank pages and crayons and let your kids write and illustrate their own Christmas story

Some of these things we already do (like playing board games and watching Christmas movies) and some I would like to start doing.
Now for the making part of the prompt. Well, we are already gathering supplies. We are doing a completely handmade holiday this year. The kids are [helping] making ornaments for the tree. I am making all the presents (except the socks and underwear). I have designed our Christmas cards and written the letter. Hopefully we will have time to do all the fun things we want to do.

Holidays in Hand: Assignment 1

2009-11-16T08:05:00.000-08:00

I'm doing a wonderful class at jessicasprague.com about taking time during the holidays and recording memories. Jessica Sprague is awesome. And the class is free. Well, first on the agenda is to figure out your holiday values and goals.

Value: Keeping in touch with family and friends
Goal: Send out Christmas cards on time

Value: Spirituality
Goal: Attend church and other uplifting holiday programs-not just about santa

Value: Meaningful gifts
Goal: Handmade, thoughtful gifts for everyone this year

Value: Involve the kids
Goal: Kids help make decorations, cookies, and candy trees

Value: Help those less fortunate
Goal: Donate old but decent toys and clothes

Value: Make it magical for the kids
Goal: See the Lights of Christmas, do special things just for the kids to have fun, hide those presents!

K at 1 year

2009-11-13T13:29:00.000-08:00

My youngest child just turned one. Here is a digital scrapbook page I did. I wanted to show all her cute little bits and really highlight what she looked like. The kit I used is Cool Summer Porch by Elizabeth Weaver (at Digital Scrapbook Place)

Sewing projects update

2009-11-10T09:28:00.001-08:00

Here are some recent sewing projects I've managed to get done. A cute little apron, perfect for a messy child to help with cooking or art stuff (the picture is funky because I didn't iron it or straighten it out before the picture). And a diaper pouch/clutch. I couldn't find a pattern I liked, so I sat down and made this one up. I'm gonna make another one or two out of my fabric stash, so I think I'll post a tutorial/pattern later. And here is a picture of some of my fabric...what will it become...stay tuned to find out.

Camera Strap Cover

2009-11-03T22:00:00.000-08:00

A while back I made a cute cover for my camera strap. I used the tutorial on Made by Petchy. It is quite cute I think. Now, if I could just get a photo of it, now that it's on the camera...

Weekly Meal Planning

2009-10-07T15:06:00.000-07:00

Here is one organizational thing I already do. It's already a part of my weekly routine. Meal Planning.
Back when I was first married we were still in college. We had our first child within the first year of our marriage. My husband was out of work, and I was only working part time while also taking classes. Needless to say, the budget was tight, and small. So, one thing we found was that planning our meals helped save a bunch of money. Sometimes, like during the holiday season, I plan a whole month of meals. That way, I know if we are having lasagna twice in the month and I can make them at the same time and freeze one, thus saving time. I still do most of my shopping once a week, but I know that if a food item is on sale, I can get it because I already have a plan to use it.
Anyway, mostly I just plan one week at a time, usually on Monday morning. Then I make my shopping list. I made a little planner for myself. I print it out and then fill it in. It gets posted on the refrigerator, so the kids don't have to ask "what's for dinner?"
You can download it for yourself HERE

More DIY Knitting Needle Storage: Cute Canister

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

I have many knitting needles. I have 1 case for circular (which might change later in the year), and 1 case I made for my short double pointed needles. Now I needed a place for my straights. I decided that I wanted something decorative, since they would probably be out in plain sight most of the time. Here is what I did:
Got my supplies- an oatmeal container, some scrapbook paper, black yarn, and craft glue. Wrapped the container in the paper (cut to size). Used the string to make a grid. And now I can put in my needles without them clumping in one area and getting all mixed up.

DIY Double Pointed Knitting Needle Case

2009-10-07T14:58:00.000-07:00

I took a thick placemat and turned it into a case for my small double pointed knitting needles. It fit perfectly. Now I have a nice place for my needles sizes US 00-US 10.
I used a thick placemat so the needles wouldn't poke through easily. First I folded up the bottom end, and finger pressed it in place. Then I measured and evenly divided the pockets. I found matching thread and did a little sewing. I labeled the pockets So I could easily find what I was looking for. Then I simply fold down the top part and roll up to carry. Maybe I should attach a ribbon to keep it closed...another day.

Free Christmas Card Share

2009-09-23T23:39:00.001-07:00

I was bored and made some Christmas card templates. I'm offering them free to anyone who wants them. Click on the preview picture to go download the full sized template (which of course doesn't contain photos or names, just space for them).

Card 1 front:

Card 1 back:

Card 2:

Card 3 front:

Card 3 back:

Card 4:

Mod Monkey Invitation Template

2009-08-30T16:59:00.000-07:00

A few days ago, on a message board, someone wanted to make a 1st birthday invitation with a 'mod monkey' theme for her twins. She was wanting some design help. After looking up this theme online, I did these templates. The gray areas are for inserting pictures. And the fonts I used were free, so I included the names so you could match the font when making your invites with these templates. Just put in your pictures, add the information on the party and print. The first one comes in both singular and plural (for multiples) They are 4x6, at 300ppi so they can be printed at any major photo printing outlet.
Download them here

Here is what the 1st template looks like:

Here are my demo's for all three.

Knitting Projects

2009-08-07T21:52:00.001-07:00

I've been on a bit of a knitting jag lately. Here are some recent projects (all are one skein projects)
A seamless pullover sweater.

A wavy drop stitch scarf

Newborn size baby leggings (know anyone with a newborn who would want them?)

Photobook

2009-06-20T18:40:00.000-07:00

I got my Shutterfly photobook in the mail the other day. It's from our family trip to Fiji, in 2007. I took over 700 pictures while there and managed to condense them down to a 55 page 8x8 photo book. I put in some of my digital scrapbook pages too. It turned out great. I'm really happy with the quality of it. Gotta love ShutterFly!

Teacher Apprecitaion

2009-06-17T16:17:00.001-07:00

It's the end of the school year for us. Anjali wanted to give her teacher a gift. Here is what we did:
Bought a nice bottle of anti-bacterial soap (a very nice smelling one). Put in a few clear glass pebbles (the kind used in vases). Took off the front label on the bottle. Added our own label that I made on the computer, and made into a sticker with my Xyron machine. Tied on a cute matching ribbon. And voila! A cute customized teach gift.
--I tried to print the label on a transparency to put it into the bottle, but my printer didn't want to do transparencies, the ink wouldn't dry. But, if yours would work, then the label could be clear and inside the bottle.--

Knitting: Pink Jumper-Done

2009-02-23T19:30:00.000-08:00

So, the jumper got done. And in time for baby girl to wear it to church. We got lots of compliments on it. What a great quick project. If you'd like to make one yourself, it's called Jumper Cable and was designed by Erika Flory. To find it, go HERE.

Knitting: Pink Jumper

2009-02-19T20:31:00.001-08:00

I'm half way through knitting a cute pink jumper for baby girl K. Found the pattern through Ravelry (the best knitting community site out there).
I am also working on a gallery wall in my living room. I have a bunch of frames (from my wedding and thrift stores and various gifts) and am working on filling them and arranging them on the giant wall above my piano. We'll see how that works out, since I am also a little busy renovating my hall bathroom.
As for sewing, I have some new fabric for bow ties for my dad, pre-quilted fabric for a camera strap (maybe), camouflage fabric for a dress for baby K, and some white fabric to make 2 table cloths for DH's church services over in Iraq. Now, if I could only dig the sewing machine out of hiding in the garage.

Hats

2009-01-11T12:52:00.000-08:00

I've been on a hat making kick lately. Maybe it's the cold weather. Anyway here is a picture of one of the hats I've finished recently. It's a button band hat. My daughter just loves the pink button!

I turned the heel today

2009-01-01T20:37:00.000-08:00

I'm knitting my first pair of socks. Things are going pretty well. I turned my first heel today. It isn't perfect, but it's good enough to wear and be put in a shoe. Hopefully the second sock will be a bit neater.

Hubby's Gloves and Helmet Liner

2008-12-31T14:10:00.001-08:00

Just some things I knit for the Hubby to take to Iraq. It's cold there right now, and he enjoys using them.

Pink SS Cardigan

2008-09-15T20:09:00.000-07:00

I just finished a cute project for my daughter. I got the yarn a little while ago when a local craft store was getting rid of their yarn section. It was quite a deal.
I found the pattern "Baby Sweater on Two Needles" from Elizabeth Zimmermann’s Knitter's Almanac. Then I found the February Lady Sweater by Pamela Wynne on Ravelry. Neither was the size I wanted, so I improvised. I took the top part with the ragland sleeves from the February Lady Sweater, and just adjusted the number of stitches I started with. For the lace part, the ribbon yarn I was using wasn't good for the lace pattern called for in either pattern, so I improvised that too. I ended up doing a drop stitch lace. On the 1st row you do a yarn over after every stitch, and on the next row you drop all the YO's. Then I did 3 rows of garter stitch and started the lace pattern over. I made sure to leave the first and last 4 stitches in garter for a nice border.

She really loves her new cardi. It's pink and everything! On to the next project!

In the Round Baby Mittens

2008-09-03T19:17:00.000-07:00

A few weeks back I was making a baby hat and wanted to make a pair of matching mittens to go with it. I couldn't find a pattern that I liked completely. I did find a cute one, but it was done in 2 pieces and then sewn together. I hate doing seams, so I revised the pattern so that I could do it in the round. Here is the pattern. Based on Super Quick Baby Mitts by Dilys Sutherland

Materials:
1 set of US size 9 double pointed knitting needles
Worsted weight yarn (1 skien will make many pairs of mittens)

Cast on 30 stitches. Separate stitches evenly among needles.
Join into round, being careful not to twist stitches.
Rib in k1, p1 ribbing for 1"

Make eyelets as follows:
Knit one round
*k2tog, yo. Repeat from * to end of round
Knit one round

Knit in stockinette stitch for 3"

Shape end:
Round 1: *K4 k2tog* Repeat from * to end of round (25 stitches)
Round 2: Knit all stitches
Round 3: *K3 k2tog* Repeat from * to end of round (20 stitches)
Round 4: Knit all stitches
Round 5: *K2 k2tog* Repeat from * to end of round (15 stitches)
Round 6: *K1 k2tog* Repeat from * to end of round (10 stitches)

Move stitches onto 2 needles, 5 stitches on each needle.
Finish: 3 needle bind-off
Weave in ends.
Thread ribbon or cord through eyelet holes at the wrist. (Picture shows a braided ribbon in the same yarn used to make mittens)

Happy Labor Day!

2008-09-01T20:58:00.001-07:00

I haven't been on in a while. Life gets so busy sometimes. I am now 6 months pregnant, my oldest child is starting 1st grade tomorrow, and my little boy is getting into everything!
I just wanted to stop in and update the blog a bit. I will probably post more later.

I love DSP

2008-03-08T20:14:00.000-08:00

So I just finished up the 'New Kids on the Block' contest at DSP (Digital Scrapbook Place) It was so much fun! I got such useful feedback. That is one great group of women. Just after I finished that up I tried the DET contest. I didn't make it past round one, but that's ok. I don't know if I'm good enough yet for that. Anyway, if you want to see all my great layouts (and some not-so-great ones) you just have to look over on my sidebar for the slideshow (which links to my Flickr account. Also on my sidebar are some links to some great digital scrapbooking sites. Well, I'm off to create some more.

New Free Kit!

2008-02-16T15:28:00.000-08:00

With Valentines Day behind us, we turn our thoughts to warmer days ahead. That means SPRING! I know that most people are thinking Easter, but I thought of Holi. It is an Indian Festival of Colors. It marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring. This year it falls on March 22 (the day before Easter for those of you keeping track). Here is a new kit I made for the occasion -Colors of Holi. It can also be great for kids pages (with the paint splatters and handprints and such)

2008-01-30T14:56:00.000-08:00

I love using images in titles. So here are are some basic title words that are made with pictures. Hope you enjoy them.

Love Eternal Word Art

2008-01-29T14:41:00.000-08:00

I was working on some scrapbook layouts, and I couldn't find the quote or word art I wanted, so I made some. Then, because I felt it was so nice, I did more and here they are.
In honor of Valentines day I have put together some freebie Word Art: Love Eternal.

Click here to download.

2008 is Gonna be Great!

2008-01-10T16:07:00.000-08:00

Well, maybe.
My husband hasn't had a steady job in a few months, and these past few weeks he hasn't worked at all. Just yesterday he started work at a new place, so we'll see how this works out.
In other news I have really been working on my knitting and scrapbooking. The holidays always make me feel crafty. I finished up several projects in time for christmas presents.
Here is a link to see some of my recent scrapbook pages at The Digital Scrapbook Place

Here is a recent page of mine. The only thing I don't like about it is the title. Any suggestions?

Diwali Add-On

2007-12-09T12:31:00.000-08:00

So After I finished the Diwali Kit I thought that maybe I'd add some Mendhi patterns to the kit...so here is the add-on.

Here is a link to download individual png files.
and here is one for a PSP file with all of them on different layers.

Diwali Kit

2007-12-06T13:20:00.000-08:00

So I did a kit for Diwali, which was, I know, in November. But I am a little behind and anyway it's now is a good time to scrap any pictures from Diwali. So anyway here is the preview and link.

Free Gingerbread Kit and New Years kit

2007-11-30T19:58:00.000-08:00

Here is a preview of my gingerbread kit (part of the Scrapbook Flair mega kit). And a preview of my Colorful New Year Kit - which will be available soon.

Christmas Mega Kit Freebie

2007-11-30T19:33:00.000-08:00

I joined a Scrapbook Flair challenge this month and together we digital scrapbookers created a fabulous mega kit for Christmas. Here are the links:
Alphas
Backgrounds
Bars
Bows
Charms
Extras
Frames
Ornaments
Overlays
QPs
Togs & Corners
Tags
Trees & Wreaths
Word Art

Christamas Kit

2007-11-09T16:16:00.000-08:00

So, My husband still hasn't put PSP back on our computer, so I am using my brothers laptop today.
This was a kit that I made for a scrapbookflair.com challenge. It is available for download here.

My first Kit

2007-11-02T11:20:00.000-07:00

Well, I thought that since I was doing more and more digital scrapbooking that I would try to make my own elements and things, and this is a fall kit that I came up with. It is my first try. I know that I will get better the more I do it, so, please be kind. I realize that it is not a totally professional job yet. But, it was fun to make and I am happy with the results. Hopefully my kids will let me get enough time in the future to learn more things and perfect my creations. Anyway, here it is; it's called Fall Colors.

Birthday Time

2007-10-22T15:55:00.000-07:00

So my kids both had their birthdays recently. I enjoy baking and decorating cakes, so I did just that for each of their birthdays. Here are the pictures:

This is for my 1 year-old. His nursery is all in a frog theme, so was the baby shower he got when I was pregnant.

My now 5 year-old wanted a Halloween birthday party. We did a spider theme with the colors purple and black. This is the haunted house cake she wanted (for some reason she refused to have a spider cake).

Car Fixed, Computer Broken

2007-10-09T15:30:00.000-07:00

So my husband managed to download a virus last month. After a week or so, he got things fairly working again, only to download another one. Now the computer wont start up properly. I wish he would just stop downloading things, and just get the computer working. ARGH!

My Week

2007-09-22T08:54:00.000-07:00

So this week has been kinda long. Last Wednesday my car broke down. Me and the kids had to wait 1.5 hours for my husband to finally get around to getting us. We were late for Cub Scouts too. Anyway, On Sunday my husband and I stayed up finishing his homework, or rather he did homework and I checked it. He likes me to read his papers before he submits them. Then on Monday My husband became a Naturalized Citizen of the US. The ceremony itself takes less than an hour, but we had to drive 2 hours to get there, wait in line 1/2 an hour to get into the building, and another 2 hours drive home. On Wednesday my daughter started preschool (she would have started on Monday, but we were gone y'know). She found out that one of her best friends is in her class. Meanwhile, my car is still not fixed and I've had to bum rides off my mom. And then after all my work for the cub scouts, they cancelled it without telling me. So I show up with all my stuff and my plan and am ready to go, and no boys were there. Thanks alot, I had the whole year's schedule planned out, now its all screwed up, and on the 2nd week too. I don't have a make-up day until december. Geez, just because some of the other classes and older kids won't be around doesn't mean you have to cancel everything going on in the entire building! I am seriously irked. And it might not have been so bad if they had at least told me about it! It was just me and 2 boys that they hadn't told, one was a webelos and one was a wolf. ARGH!
On Thursday a friend took my daughter to school and picked her up, and let her play over at her house for a few hours. I actually had some time to myself (when the baby took his naps). Oh, I also forgot to mention, Last Saturday our computer got a virus. And this was no 24-hour flu, the whole thing is now infected and we are trying to save what information we can before having to re-format and reinstall all the programs. So, my digital scrapbooking has been put on hold, and my blogging. We have borrowed my brothers laptop so that my husband can still do his homework, which is what I now have to use to check e-mail and do this blog. Anywho, Today is gonna be lots of chores and things, so I'd better go.
Congratulations to all the immigrants who were naturalized on Monday (National Immigration Day), You did things the right way, and not the illegal way! Yeah! It's worth the wait and the money!

Long Weekend

2007-09-10T08:25:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's been so long since I've written. I've been busy trying to get my daughter into kindergarten. The school district won't let her in because her birthday is in October and their cut-off for entrance is Sept. 1st. So, even though all her friends are in school now, and she is as smart and well-adjusted as they, she cannot go. All because of the age. How rude. So we are officially home-schooling her for kindergarten and will e putting her into public school starting 1st grade next year. So, she'll be where she should be, and with her friends. Take that stupid school district. If we were in a different state, she would be allowed in automatically because the cut-off dates are after her birthday. Stupid Washington state law!

Anyway, my kindergartener is very into Halloween this year. She already has her costume all picked out (I'm making it myself). and wants a Halloween birthday party. And wants to start decorating for Halloween right now. I'm OK with starting work on her costume, but I am NOT decorating the house right now.

In other news, I did my first Sharing time in Primary last week, and my second one this week. I get the next 2 weeks off (for Stake Conference and a class presentation) then I get 1 ST more for this month. I am still going to play the piano for the program, which will be Oct. 28.

Also, in 1 week my husband will take the Oath of Allegiance and become a US Citizen. That only took 5 1/2 years and well over a thousand dollars!

Well, that's it for now.

Fiji

2007-08-29T10:20:00.000-07:00

Hi! I just got back from Fiji. What an interesting trip. I enjoyed the scenery a lot, But I wish we'd seen more places (and beaches). I spent most of my time watching the kids while my husband caught up with friends and family (mostly talking in Hindi and Fijian, so I have no idea what went on). I'll post some pics and things later. gotta go!

Just for Fun

2007-08-04T09:11:00.000-07:00

Some fun quizzes I took. How will you do?

You Passed 8th Grade Math

Congratulations, you got 8/10 correct!

Could You Pass 8th Grade Math?

You Are a Smiley Face Cookie

You're happy go lucky. So happy, in fact, it's a little past the point of normal sanity.
You usually make those around you smile ... when you're not creeping them out!

What Kind of Cookie Are You?

Scrap and Travel

2007-08-03T22:04:00.000-07:00

Here are some other of my digital scrapbooking pages.

Also, I will be in the beautiful FIJI ISLANDS (yeah!) for the next few weeks. I'll probably post some pictures later. Have a great weekend!