Goosie and Boomer Bowtique

Birthday Weekend!

2012-01-29T06:25:00.000-06:00

Goosie is turning 8 this weekend. I know every parent says it... but, it has so much truth to it... I can't believe how fast this time has progressed.
Our Diva wanted hot pink and zebra print for her birthday... all the way down to the cupcakes.
I am surprising her this morning with this Top Hat headband. Are these available for sale? YOU BET! The price truly depends on how much "bling" you want. I can certainly work with you on how much you want to spend and work the materials from there. I love doing special orders! Just email me: hils12ac@yahoo.com or leave a comment below!
Happy Birthday, Goosie!

An Easy and Explosive Valentine's Day Idea!

2012-01-20T10:12:00.000-06:00

It seems as though EVERYONE is on a budget these days and even if you aren't here is a fun, inexpensive and explosive way to tell your Valentine that you love them!
You will need:
Red paper
black pipe cleaners (I got mine at WalMart/ a pack for 77 cents)
Three packages of Rolos
Tape
some string or ribbon

Cut the paper to the size of the Rolos and then wrap the red paper around the Rolo and tape.

Once the Rolos are wrapped, tape the pipe cleaner to one of the Rolos (it just makes it easier and less chance of it slipping out the bottom).

Tape all three Rolo packs together with the pipe cleaner on the "inside" of the group. I, then, taped the three Rolos together. Then, wrap your ribbon or string around the outside and include a cute tag. I simply printed a tag that said: "Valentine, you are dynamite!"
Happy Valentine's Day! Thank you for stopping by the blog!

An easy soup recipe!

2012-01-19T06:29:00.001-06:00

Hello! Today's post is a recipe that I love and is SUPER easy to fix!
It is Tortellini soup talk today. It is easy on time and the wallet.

(sorry for the poor quality photo... it was a long day)

Here are the ingredients:
2 boxes of chicken broth (or vegetable if you like)
1 jar of your favorite spaghetti sauce (I use Newman's Own Tomato Basil)
1 bag of frozen tortellini

Directions:
Heat the broth and sauce together. Bring the sauce and broth mixture to a boil and then add the tortellini. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes. Serve!
It really is that easy!
Enjoy

Heating things up with two small items!

2012-01-18T05:53:00.001-06:00

Lately, I hate to say it but, coffee has been a life saver for me. To be honest, with the cold weather... it could be coffee, tea, or my favorite... hot chocolate.
You may have seen these other places but I thought that instead of using one of these:

I would make some of these:

The costs for the coffee warmers are $4.00 each. What a great Valentine gift for that special coffee or tea loving someone in your life! And... you are saving the Earth in the process. (BTW, please forgive the McDonald's cup with the Starbuck's sleeve... I happen to be addicted to the very good Peppermint Mocha at McD's)
Now, for just $3.00 you could get a mug wrap:

Please remember, any order placed in January receives a 10% discount! You can contact me through the Goosie and Boomer Bowtique Facebook page, my email: hils12ac@yahoo.com or leave a comment below on the blog. As always, thank you so very much for stopping by the blog!

Today... The blog is going to the dogs!

2012-01-17T07:12:00.001-06:00

This is Dozer. He is our Aussie Shepherd that we rescued two years ago. Dozer was severely mistreated and his foster mom worked really hard at bringing him back to health. He has changed so much in two years... and we love to surprise him with little treats. Today is a dog treat recipe!
I found this recipe here.
To make it easier, I am going to repost it on my blog:
Thank you, www.pinkpistachio.com!

Peanut Butter Dog Biscuits

Ingredients
1 cup flour
1/4 cup oats
1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
1/2 T baking powder
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup milk
1 T olive oil
1 T applesauce

Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine all dry ingredients in a medium bowl. Add wet ingredients and mix until well combined. Knead into a well incorporated ball. On wax paper, roll out dough to ~ 1/2 inch thickness. Using cookie cutters, cut out treats and place on an unlined baking sheet. Bake 20 minutes or until golden brown. Store in an airtight container.
I hope your pooch loves them as much as mine!

January Giveaway Winner Announced!!!!

2012-01-17T06:15:00.000-06:00

Well... Since the tornado sirens had some of us up early, I will go ahead and post the winner! The winner is: Stacey Vogt-Alms!!!!! You were chosen by Random Integer (your number was #79). Congratulations!!!!
Thank you to all that have entered!!!
Who knows what February will bring????

Sugar lips :) A Valentine Recipe and Mold Variation of the Sugar Cube!

2012-01-16T07:41:00.000-06:00

You may remember this post (click "this post" for the direct link)about how to impress your holiday guests with sugar cubes.
This time I substituted the water for vanilla extract. I, also, had some lip shaped molds to use for Valentine's Day... ahhh, SUGAR LIPS!!!! ;)

Take one cup of sugar and approx. 1/2 Tablespoon of extract and mix until the sugar is completely moistened. Then, press the sugar mixture into the mold. Let air dry all day or overnight (approx. 10 hours). Then, pop out the sugar cubes.

This would be a great inexpensive treat for the coffee or tea lover in your life. Simply add a box of tea, a small bag of coffee, or even a gift card to their favorite drink location. Happy Valentine's!
Remember: there is just one day left to enter the giveaway!!!!!

Valentine's Day Project and Giveaway Reminder

2012-01-15T10:33:00.000-06:00

Don't forget to enter the Aviator hat giveaway by joining this blog as a follower and "liking" the Goosie and Boomer Bowtique Facebook page!
Now, onto business :). I had seen this tutorial on popsicle stick bracelets covered with fabric. It is a GREAT tutorial but I wanted to cover mine with all the yarn that I end up having left over from projects.
First you soak the sticks in hot water and leave them all day.

Next, take them out of the water and place them inside a small up with flat sides... leave them all night.

In the morning, they should be dry and you can pop them out of the cup!
I decided to cover mine with yarn. Since my daughter will most likely be the one wearing them, I did reinforce the yarn ends with some hot glue (just hide it on the inside).
You could embellish these with felt flowers, buttons, fabric flowers... just about anything! This is a SUPER cheap project and easy for kids!
(please note, yes, I had red popsicle sticks left over from a previous project. the color simply came off in the water when soaked... it didnt' really make a difference.)

Giveaway announcement for January!

2012-01-09T07:34:00.000-06:00

Giveaway announcement! For the month of January, I will be giving away an aviator hat! The hat features a chenille flap with buttons and two ear flaps. I will make the hat in any size the winner would like. The giveaway is for this hat only. Here is how the giveaway will work this time:
a. If you are a Facebook fan of Goosie and Boomer Bowtique, you will receive an automatic entry.
b. Place an order for this week: January 9th-16th and receive the 10% discount plus 5 entries!
c. Become a follower of the blog and receive 3 additional entries!
www.goosieandboomerbowtique.blogspot.com
The drawing will take place on January 17th.
BEST OF LUCK TO YOU!!!!!!

Update for January

2012-01-08T16:41:00.002-06:00

Hello! I've been taking/filling orders! YAY! If you placed an order last week and are waiting for a total or invoice, I'm working on it! I happily and unexpectedly received several orders and I'm working down the list! Thank you to all that have contacted me about an order. I received inquiries about a few items, also. If you would like to "firm up" the order and receive the 10% discount for January, please do so soon. Giveaway announcement tomorrow!

Welcome to new blog followers!!!!

2012-01-04T13:29:00.000-06:00

Welcome to everyone that has become a new follower of the blog! I have been working diligently on new items for Goosie and Boomer Bowtique friends and fans! Valentine's Day and St.Patrick's Day are two holiday where you can have fun and share great times!
Enjoy the new Silly Leprechaun hat!

January Giveaway

2012-01-03T07:18:00.000-06:00

There will be a January giveaway announced soon! I love the joy of delivering these giveaway items! I will give you a "heads up" as to how to increase your chances NOW for winning!
The first way to increase your chance is to become a Facebook fan of Goosie and Boomer Bowtique!
The second way to increase your chance is to become a blog follower. On the right hand side of the blog, you can click and become a follower. This will greatly increase your chances of winning!
The third way to increase your chance of winning is to place a January order. This is a double bonus because I am giving 10% off every order for January!!!
Best of luck to each of you and I wish you the best of health and happiness in the New Year!

More new items!

2011-12-29T15:03:00.000-06:00

I can't stop thinking about Valentine's crafts already... I need to stop going for supplies in crafts stores! UGH! But, the quicker I get inspired the quicker I can pass it along ;).
I am posting a new aviator hat today. This one is solid colored. It would be great for an adult and don't forget the photo props for babies!
Also, there are two hairbows posted. These are the only two "Winter Wonderland" hairbows I have. They are $5.00 each. They are on clips so you can attach them to a headband, beanie (shown on the snowball beanie), or worn alone. Leave a comment if you are interested or email me: hils12ac@yahoo.com
As always, thank you for stopping by the blog!
Have you considered becoming a follower of the blog? On the right hand side of the blog you can become a follower! This will ALWAYS increase your chances winning during giveaways!

Aviator in brown!

2011-12-28T07:00:00.000-06:00

I love the new Aviator and I hope you do, too! These are available in any color you wish in sizes from infant to adult. You can get the chenille front flap or just plain. 10% off all January orders so place your order now and you will receive the discount upon January delivery.
Have a very Happy New Year!

Another new item for the New Year! The aviator hat!

2011-12-27T16:07:00.000-06:00

I will be making new items and posting throughout the week! Here is one version of the new Aviator hat that I have made! I will be posting a boy version as well.

This hat is made with red yarn and white chenille yarn. Included on the hat are two heart shaped buttons. These hats can be made for any size from infant to adult and in any color.
Enjoy!

New item! Boot cuffs!

2011-12-26T11:32:00.002-06:00

I have added a new item to Goosie and Boomer Bowtique! Boot cuffs!
The boot cuffs are 8 inches long. Slip them under your boot or rainboot. They can be worn upright or flipped over the edge of your boot. They are $10.00 a pair unless it is a special pattern or yarn ordered.
If you would like to place an order, leave a comment below this post or email me: hils12ac@yahoo.com

Merry Christmas from Goosie and Boomer Bowtique!

2011-12-24T17:16:00.000-06:00

I would like to wish you each a very Merry Christmas! I have received the best present ever by helping you fulfill your Christmas orders! Thank you to each and every one of you that have joined the Facebook page, visited the blog, left a comment and placed an order!

The Big Bad Wolf has arrived for Christmas

2011-12-23T19:45:00.001-06:00

I know two sweet girls that will receive hats this Christmas and this Wolf beanie hat is for one of them! It has a muzzle, shaped ears, along with felt and some button eyes. The wolf is made from gray heirloom yarn.
If you would like to place an order for January, you will receive 10% off the order. You can order by sending me an email: hils12ac@yahoo.com or leave a comment below.
Thank you for stopping by the blog! I love comments... chat with me!

Special order: gold and cream colored hairbows

2011-12-22T21:16:00.000-06:00

I received a special order this past week for gold and cream colored hairbows to match a Christmas dress. Enjoy!

New beanie hat! Welcome the bear to the family!

2011-12-22T04:15:00.000-06:00

Here is a super soft addition to the beanie hat family at Goosie and Boomer Bowtique. He is a teddy bear hat made from heirloom yarn. Enjoy!

I hope everyone has a very safe holiday and if you are from the hood: you know... the motherhood, fatherhood, etc. that you find joy in the little things this Christmas.
I appreciate each and every one of you that have visited the blog, placed and order, left a comment, and have become a friend through Goosie and Boomer. Thank you to each of you!
As a thank you, please remember that you will receive 10% off any orders placed for January!

Trash to Treasure for your holiday decor!

2011-12-21T05:38:00.001-06:00

As most of you know, we are a military family. Being a military family means many moves, many furniture dents and sometimes even lost pieces of items and you often wonder where things went... inevitable. Really.
We had a cheap 3 legged decorator table. You know, the $10 side table for your bed? Well... the legs disappeared. So we had a $10 table top ;).
Throw it away? We could have or....
I could spray paint ;). If you know me well, you know I love to spray paint. This time: Chalkboard paint. I primed the top with two coats of primer and then sprayed about 3 coats of chalkboard paint. I let it set for approximately 2 days and then "primed" it with chalk. After you spray anything with chalkboard paint you should rub the entire surface with chalk to "prime" it. Then wash it completely.
I leave message on this board for our kids all the time. It sits on the sideboard in our living room. If you really want the chalk on there for a while with out smugging, use chalk pens. They are work every dime.
For Christmas, I used my cricut cutter and cut an "X" out of a cereal box, covered it with glue, and then used glitter to cover it. Then, I used the chalkboard pen to leave a message.

Peppermint Twist recipe

2011-12-20T07:01:00.002-06:00

Below this blog post you will see the photo slideshow instructions for these great additions to your hot cocoa this year! I saw these in the Better Homes and Gardens December issue and thought I would give them a try! Here are the basic instructions and as stated I have included a slideshow in the post below with the instructions, also.

Stir together a cup of sifted powdered sugar with water, a teaspoon at a time (2 to 3 total), until it is the consistency of a thin glaze. Dip half of marshmallow in glaze, lightly shaking to remove excess. Roll glazed end of marshmallows in finely crushed candy canes or peppermint candies. Place on waxed paper/parchment paper coated side up to set. Thread on skewers and serve.

Christmas card display... a story of a shutter and some glitter

2011-12-19T05:43:00.000-06:00

Last year my husband and I decided that we would try to find a shutter to display our Christmas cards. In actuality, we did not have a very difficult time finding an old shutter. It was painted a dark green with a great many chips on the paint. I took a wire brush and removed the chips of paint and then rubbed some red paint over the shutter in various places. We used clothes pins to attach the cards. This year I used gold and silver for our decorations so I took the clothes pins and did the following:
cover one side of the clothes pins with glue then sprinkle glitter and allow to dry for several hours. I used Martha Stewart glitter. Now, you are good to go for your Christmas card display!
(We found our old shutter at an antique shop. I have seen them at flea markets and thrift stores as well)

Special order: Irish hat

2011-12-18T07:01:00.000-06:00

I had an order this week for a hat with the colors of the Irish flag. What a fun hat! Check it out! Please remember that orders are closed for Christmas but if you place an order for January you will receive 10% off the purchase!

Pretzel Turtles

2011-12-17T05:58:00.000-06:00

Many of you may have fixed these little delights but I thought I would share the recipe with those that haven't so you would have another easy recipe to add to your collection! The combination of the salty pretzels and the sweet caramel and chocolate make for a wonderful treat! Enjoy the recipe! Also, I would love to hear from you! Don't hesitate to leave a comment on the blog!
Pretzel Turtles:
Ingredients:

Rolo Candies

Small Pretzels

Pecan Halves

(1 Rolo + 1 Pretzel + 1 Pecan Halve = 1 Treat)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 250 degrees and line a cookie sheet with foil. Place pretzels flat on the foil-lined cookie sheet. Place 1 Rolo on each pretzel. Place in oven for 4-5 minutes or until Rolos become soft. Immediately after removing pretzels from oven, place a pecan halve on each Rolo and very lightly press down to spread chocolate/caramel over pretzel. Let stand or place in refrigerator until chocolate/caramel hardens.

Peppermint Bark/ A Repost for Cheap and Easy Week

2011-12-16T06:28:00.000-06:00

(please remember that all photos are copyrighted)

I thought I would repost this recipe for those looking for more easy ideas. It is cheap and easy week here at Goosie and Boomer! My goal in this post is to show you how to make Peppermint Bark at the FRACTION of the cost of what Williams-Sonoma is offering it for this year... 1lb. $26.50 not including shipping.

I have been making this for years and we love it! I do not put the milk chocolate on the bottom because I make a marbled toasted almond bark, also. If you like, I can post those instructions as well.

What you will need for this project:

one microwave safe bowl

1 to 2 tablespoons of oil

two bags of white chocolate chips

1 box of candy canes crushed

a foil lined cookie sheet

Recipe:

Place the chips into the microwave safe bowl and add oil. Microwave at 30 sec. intervals, stirring each time until smooth.

Pour chocolate onto foil lined sheet and spread evenly.

Tap the cookie sheet on the table to remove air bubbles.

Sprinkle the candy canes over the chocolate... evenly.

Tap the cookie sheet again to set the candy canes into the chocolate.

Place in the refridgerator on a flat area for approx. 40 minutes.

Take out after 40 minutes... peel the foil away and now the fun part...

BREAK!

The point is to have radomly broken pieces! So... have fun!

I hope you find these informative and I WILL post about bows soon but it so fun to create and SAVE MONEY, too :)

Crockpot Candy.... How to make 100 pieces of chocolate candy with little effort!

2011-12-15T05:45:00.001-06:00

This weekend, I made this candy. It took minimal effort and yielded tasty results!
You will need the following:
2 lbs salted dry-roasted peanuts
4 oz. German's sweet chocolate
1 12oz. package semisweet chocolate chips
2 1/2 lbs. white almond bark
100 mini cupcake papers

Do the following:

1. Put the peanuts in the bottom of a 4-Quart slow cooker. Layer the chocolate over the peanuts, beginning with the sweet chocolate, followed by the chips, and then the almond bark. Set the temperature on low and cook for 3 hours. Do not stir the mixture.

2. After 3 hours, stir the mixture until smooth. Drop the candy into mini cupcake papers. Allow the candy to cool completely before storing.

Merry Christmas!!!! Enjoy! Another easy idea (only this recipe is all over the internet so I can't take the credit!)

Inexpensive and Easy Holiday Decorations

2011-12-14T05:43:00.000-06:00

or... we could just call it what it is: cheap and SUPER easy ;). Blogland is full of the jars with candles and fake snow. Well... it is, also, full of this idea: Epsom salts as fake snow. Yep, you just need some of this:

along with any jars you may have empty and a tea light.
Pour some of the epsom salts in the bottom of the jar, drop in a tea light and ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh... automatic Winter decor! It's an easy week here at Goosie and Boomer Bowtique!

An inexpensive way to impress holiday guests/or a simple gift

2011-12-13T06:47:00.000-06:00

Holidays seem to drain our energy and our wallets, at times. Here is an easy way to impress guests OR a very inexpensive gift idea. We're talking SUGAR CUBES... special shaped sugar cubes. You will want to start with a mold. You could use a chocolate mold or a small ice cube tray like the one I have used. You can find these ice cube trays even at Dollar Tree or Dollar General these days and they, often, come in a pack of two! So we are at $1.00 in price. You will need a bowl, a cup of sugar and a teaspoon of water. Mix the sugar and water in a bowl and then begin spooning the sugar into the trays. Pack the sugar in each mold. One cup of sugar filled two trays for me.
Now, here's the trick... leave it on the counter all night. There is nothing else to do but put up your feet and relax. In the morning, tap out the molds and you have sugar cubes! Put them in an airtight container or some baggies for gifts along with some coffee or tea and you have a gift. These make great party favors, also. How simple! Water, sugar, molds, and wait! Happy Holidays!

Winner announced!

2011-12-10T10:39:00.000-06:00

The winner of the Christmas beanie giveaway was: Rhonda Graham! Congratulations! You have your choice of one of the following: The peppermint twist, the snowball, or the santa beanie! Thank you to all that entered! We had 110 entries with all the Facebook "likes," orders, and comments! I used Random Integer.org to choose the winner! If you did not win and would like to place an order, there is still time!

Just two days left!!!!

2011-12-08T05:41:00.000-06:00

Hi, Goosie and Boomer visitors!! There are just two days left until the giveaway for the choice of one of three hats, the snowball, the peppermint twist, or the Santa hat! Please make sure you leave a comment under one of those blog post telling why it is your favorite hat to receive an extra entry in the giveaway! If you place an order, you will receive 5 additional entries. Thank you to all that have participated!
Things have been busy! Check out a couple of special orders!

A reminder of the Giveaway Rules. Good Luck!

2011-12-06T05:34:00.001-06:00

Reposting giveaway announcement for new members:
Giveaway announcement! These are the "rules": a. If you "like" Goosie and Boomer Bowtique FB page, you are already entered. Any new "likes" are given an entry! b. Go to the Goosie and Boomer Bowtique blog, leave a comment under one of the three hats to be given away, you will be given another entry. c. Place an order this week, you will be given 5 entries. What you will win: you will get to choose one of the following: a snowball beanie, a santa beanie, or a peppermint twist in any size you desire. The giveaway ends Saturday, December 10th at 8 a.m. Good luck!!!!!

Personalized Cheer! Giveaway reminder

2011-12-04T09:36:00.000-06:00

The above picture is a project I worked on for our family. I love all the subway art and various personalized canvas that you see in the stores and online. Here is my version :).
Don't forget to leave a comment on the blog so that you can receive an extra entry in the giveaway! Thank you for stopping by! I appreciate each and every one of you!

Giveaway announcement! Best of Luck!

2011-12-03T06:45:00.003-06:00

Giveaway announcement! These are the "rules": a. If you "like" Goosie and Boomer Bowtique FB page, you are already entered. Any new "likes" are given an entry! b. Go to the Goosie and Boomer Bowtique blog, leave a comment under one of the three hats to be given away, you will be given another entry. c. Place an order this week, you will be given 5 entries. What you will win: you will get to choose one of the following: a snowball beanie, a santa beanie, or a peppermint twist in any size you desire. The giveaway ends Saturday, December 10th at 8 a.m. Good luck!!!!!
Look for the hats on this blog: Peppermint Twist, Santa hat, or the Snowball and leave a comment under your favorite! Tell me why you would want to win that hat!

Do the Peppermint Twist!

2011-12-02T12:38:00.003-06:00

Check out the new Peppermint Twist beanie! It has it all! STRIPES, BRAIDS, A SMALL CUFF AT THE BOTTOM AND A POM POM ON TOP! I am going to host another giveaway tomorrow! Hint: get over to the Goosie and Boomer Facebook page and "like" it!
Thank you for stopping by!

The Sweet, Soft, Snowball beanie

2011-12-02T05:08:00.004-06:00

I made a super soft snowball beanie! It is so comfy and easy to wear! Thank you for stopping by the blog! The snowball beanie is perfect with any bow or felt flower as shown.

Santa Baby!!!

2011-12-01T11:26:00.004-06:00

I will be posting more and more holiday items! Check out the "Santa Baby" hat! If you need a special order or are interested in a hat you see here, please email me: hils12ac@yahoo.com or leave a comment below this post. Thank you for stopping by!

New beanie added to the "Owl family"

2011-11-19T06:40:00.003-06:00

Here is the latest owl beanie that has been added to the family. Baby sleepy owl. Don't hesitate to write a comment below or send me a message for holiday orders! email: hils12ac@yahoo.com

Beautiful new beanies

2011-11-18T16:48:00.004-06:00

I had a wonderful lady order three beanies. She wanted silver, snowflakes and some white. The order was one for mom, one for daughter and one for an 18" doll. I love how the yarn with silver thread transformed these beanies! Each beanie included a bow with a clippie. Enjoy!

A panda has joined the family of beanies!

2011-11-16T21:02:00.004-06:00

Every cute head needs a cute panda! Please leave a comment or email me for an order: hils12ac@yahoo.com
The Panda hat is made of pom poms, felt and wiggly eyes (you can do with or without them. Thank you for stopping by the blog! Comments are ALWAYS welcome!

A 1st Birthday tutu order

2011-11-15T07:29:00.003-06:00

I recently filled a tutu order for a 1st Birthday. Take a look! As always, thank you for stopping by the Goosie and Boomer Bowtique blog!

A pink twist on the owl hat

2011-11-12T16:06:00.002-06:00

Goosie and a friend of hers wanted hot pink owl hats. Here it is... rhinestone eyes, too!

Giveaway ends tomorrow!

2011-11-10T20:35:00.001-06:00

Hurry to the Goosie and Boomer Bowtique Facebook page and "like" it for an entry to win the pumpkin hat! Don't miss out on the opportunity to win a free hat! Good luck!

Special orders

2011-11-09T06:25:00.002-06:00

I, recently, filled some special orders for some very special people! Take a look! What would you want in a hat? Let me know!

The pumkin beanie and some exciting news!

2011-11-06T15:16:00.004-06:00

With the overwhelming amount of orders (I am not complaining a bit... KEEP 'EM COMING, Goosie and Boomer Bowtique has a Facebook page now! Anyone who likes the page this week will be entered in a giveaway to be announced very soon!
While you are browsing, check out the new pumkin beanie! Every Lil' Pumpkin needs one of these for Thanksgiving!

Beanie Bonanza!

2011-11-04T16:19:00.002-05:00

Beanies have been flying out of the house and onto cuties! Thank you, tons, for your support and orders! Check out the latest beanies! Feel free to message me below with orders or contact me through my email: hils12ac@yahoo.com!

Special delivery

2011-10-18T05:48:00.002-05:00

I completed a special order for a sweet lady this week. This Greenbay Packers beanie was made for a baby. If you have a special order, please contact me through the comments below or you can email me: hils12ac@yahoo.com

Days until...

2011-10-17T06:17:00.004-05:00

We seem to countdown quite a bit in this house of little ones. It is fun to countdown the days until a special event. Check out this sign! It could be yours! The sign is a chalkboard with white vinyl. You can write the number of days and the event!

I'm Back!

2011-10-15T06:44:00.006-05:00

After thinking long and hard about keeping the blog or not, I have decided to keep it and continue to post new ventures and crafts. It is my hope to eventually link up a new Etsy store to this blog and continue to gain business and inspire through creations. Thank you for those of you that have faithfully checked the blog! So... here it goes... the latest and greatest! BEANIES! Yes, I have been knitting beanies for the fall season and I am selling them. I have been so excited about the orders that I have been receiving! Welcome back, enjoy the photos and don't hesitate to contact me if you would like to place an order! Feel free to leave a comment on this blog or email me: hils12ac@yahoo.com

Vintage glass carrier {makeover}

2011-06-14T12:18:00.003-05:00

This past Sunday we went for a drive. Hunting for flea markets and antique shops, we drove to several small towns. One item that I purchased was a brass vintage glass carrier. I'm not a fan of "sassy brass" so out came the paint. I sprayed it with primer and then some black spray paint I had left from another project. I'm not sure if it will continue to be a candle holder but for now it will be a great outdoor addition. With some burlap, small jars, and dry beans... I now have a candle holder for the Summer!
Enjoy!

Pink Parfait

2011-06-03T13:06:00.001-05:00

Here are some BIG new bows... multiple shades of pink! $5.00 each and I have 5 available.

A Nice way to say, "GO AWAY!"

2011-05-28T05:45:00.002-05:00

In our neighborhood, Summertime means tons of solicitors. They try to sell us ALL types of things and they usually arrive during naptime or mealtime. Here's my solution... I couldn't have just any ordinary sign at the door ;).

New bows!

2011-05-27T13:44:00.002-05:00

Tulip bows! I used large alligator clips so they can withstand the weight of the tulip tops without slipping. Let me know if you are interested!

Candle Chandelier for our Gazebo

2011-04-18T17:15:00.003-05:00

We recently purchased a canvas gazebo for our back patio. I REALLY wanted a candle chandelier but did not want to pay the money the big box stores and Pottery Barn were charging for candle chandeliers.
Boomer and I went to a local thrift/antique/consignment store and found a brass light fixture. The owner helped rip out all the electrical parts and we flipped the light fixture. It worked perfectly. I sprayed it with Krylon black Primer and then Krylon oil rubbed bronze. I love it! I can't wait to light it for the first time!!!

Spring/Easter Teacher Gifts

2011-04-15T12:41:00.003-05:00

In an effort to make useful teacher gifts this Spring, I worked on several clipboards for Goosie and Boomer's teachers this year. I used wrapping paper, plain clipboard, modge podge luster, and ribbon. Along with the clipboards, I made post-it note holders by using plastic 5x7 photo frames, scrapbook paper, and ribbon. Enjoy!

How to make little people happy on Sunday morning...

2011-03-14T06:24:00.002-05:00

Make Mickey Mouse pancakes :). The Mr. made these pancakes for Goosie and Boomer. They were beyond thrilled! We had so much to celebrate... Goosie had straight A's for the 3rd quarter in a row AND she had received her ribbon for writing a book for the Young Author's program at her school. WAY TO GO GOOSIE!

Kid/Guest Bathroom... before and after

2011-03-13T06:14:00.002-05:00

We decided to "upgrade" the bathroom by replacing the chrome construction grade hardware. We replaced all the hardware and faucets with brushed nickel and took down the plain mirror and replaced it. At first, I was not in love with the green we chose for the walls but I love it now that everything is in place! Enjoy!

Bathroom "makeover"

2011-02-20T06:39:00.002-06:00

So... we decided to update the construction grade hardware and faucets in the kid/guest bathroom. The Mr. has been painting and prepping the past few days. We managed to score great deals on hardware and the faucet by not settling for big box stores and searching the internet. (pics soon)
President's Day weekend has turned out to be productive and the weather has been warm for this time of year. We started our "kitchen" garden with some chives and basil seeds finding a nice nest in pots in the house.
I long to go home to WV but that will happen soon enough, I suppose.
Time to paint some trim in the bathroom and make some potato pancakes...

6 months

2011-02-06T06:56:00.002-06:00

If a doctor gave you 6 months to live, what would you do? I think that after those words... everything that followed from his/her mouth would turn to white noise. I would not hear how things would shut down, how I should prepare myself for hospice, how I should make my final preparations and wishes known.
My Grandfather has 6 months. How can that be? As his granddaughter, this seems impossible.
I'm so many miles away... I need to be closer so that I can just be... just be there without words, even.
This isn't a grandfather where we loaded up in the car, drove a couple of hours, visited, and then packed the car again and drove home... nope, he lived 10 minutes away from me for most of my life.
He used to sneak me to a drugstore for an ice cream treat called a "Jo Jo" and then tell my Grandmother that we went to town to go to the bank or to get some medicine :).
He used to tickle me till I screamed for mercy... I would love to curl up next to him right now and tickle him and make him laugh and smile.
Memories are floodng into my mind nonstop. Tears flow and lumps in the throat form as I think of the moment he leaves this Earth and we are one less fabulous person on this ground. I feel as though I'm in a forest, lost, and searching and searching and searching for something but I'm not sure what... then, I feel as though I shouldn't be the one searching... I love you with all my heart and body...

Every evening I turn my worries over to God. He's going to be up all night anyway. ~Mary C. Crowley

Knittng for my girl

2011-01-07T08:58:00.003-06:00

One of my goals for 2011 was to teach myself how to knit. I asked for the knifty knitter for my birthday so that I could start there and then work my way to hooks. Hooks are still required, though, with the knifty knitter. Here is the first sucessful project! I made a hat for Goosie and one for her American Girl doll. When my model returns from school I will post pictures of the other hats I have done.

Having a cold and what it means for me...

2011-01-04T06:27:00.003-06:00

Living with chronic pain from RA, you learn to deal with things literally one step at a time. Last week I had issues with high liver panels, then swelling, and even a head cold. I had to eventually go to the doctor when breathing became labored. Sitting in an urgent care facility, I risk even more infection due to the medications that I am on which lower my immune system.
After 3 hours in urgent care and possibilities of everything from congestive heart failure, pneumonia and upper respiratory infection, I was relieved to hear it was an upper respiratory infection.
The doctor prescribed an antibiotic. Good right? Well... No... that means no shot this week. And... due to the liver panels coming back high, I cannot even take a tylenol. Seems easy right? No, that means nothing for pain for 7 days. And... the possibility of a "flare." A "flare" is when my immune system goes crazy and even my eyebrows hurt. Sadly to say, things are already happening. It means more rest and less stress!
No matter what... I have my resources that are cute and lovable and that is my motivation!

Back to school...

2011-01-03T06:17:00.004-06:00

Since my children have begun their journeys of schooling, I have missed them terribly. I have never been the Mom that celebrates that first day back after vacation. Instead, I ache for them and pray that others will be kind and they will be kind in return. I hope that as each day comes they will remember the virtues that we try to "engrave" in their brains. I love being a mom. I love being the mom that sometimes cries over their little and big achievements. I will always be their cheerleader! Best wishes to you, Goosie and Boomer, for a magnificent 2011.

New Year... new craft

2011-01-02T07:07:00.002-06:00

I am embarking on a new adventure this year... knitting... stay tuned for the finished project. I'm thinking leg warmers for Goosie next ;)

Happy New Year!

2011-01-01T05:45:00.003-06:00

Since we're like the elderly and on so many medications we rang in the New Year with some sparkling grape juice, appetizers and an early bedtime! I hope your New Year was festive, fun, and memorable!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-24T06:03:00.001-06:00

From our family to yours... MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Fortunate

2010-12-22T06:29:00.003-06:00

I think that this time of year we can get so caught up in the stressors of life that we miss some of the fantastic things that Christmas has to offer. The beginning of this week was full of class holiday parties and the arrival of my parents.
On Monday, I had the car loaded with goodie bags, teacher gifts, backpacks and my schedule for the day... which is quite full on Mondays.
Boomer was to sing at a nursing home with his Preschool class... a school that does not have transportation so it meant running back and forth a total of 4 times that morning.
I wouldn't have missed it for the world. The patients at the nursing home were so thankful to have them there and I started to think about my own grandparents and, slso, the Mr.'s grandmother. It has to be so difficult to be in the same surroundings day after day and the thought of any visitor would be amazing.
Boomer sang very well and made me quite proud.
Goosie had ballet that same night and her teacher invited us into the classroom to see her perform a Nutcracker doll dance. She amazed me with her skill and beauty.
This is all I could have dreamed of for Christmas... healthy, beautiful, amazing children.

Repurposed Shutter

2010-12-19T13:04:00.003-06:00

I have seen a few people take an old shutter and use it in new ways. Well, the Mr. found a shutter for me to use to display Christmas cards and the best part... it already had some green paint! He used a wire brush to weather it and remove all the loose paint. Then, I used a burgundy paint and brushed over the shutter in spots to keep it looking worn. With some clothes pins, we now have a way to display our Christmas cards!

CAKE! Because we truly appreciate teachers!

2010-12-17T12:53:00.003-06:00

Well... during the "ice day," I was able to complete 5 large bundt cakes and 5 little cakes as well. They are devil's food cake with white chocolate and mint milk chocolate drizzles. There was a wonderful aroma in the house yesterday!

Snow Day!!! Um... I mean, ICE DAY!!!!

2010-12-16T06:47:00.002-06:00

We interrupt this blog for a nice coating of ice on the roads and little babes snug in their beds! I'll be baking and entertaining my children... see ya'll tomorrow!

Tutu order... a Christmas gift

2010-12-15T05:35:00.004-06:00

One of my dear "customers" had ordered a tutu this past Summer for her niece. When the girl's little sister saw the tutu she asked, "Where's mine?" So... that very special Aunt asked me to make a tutu in the little girl's favorite colors: pink and orange!

Holly, Jolly Hairbows

2010-12-14T05:38:00.002-06:00

16 hairbows, to be exact. All ready for a ballet Christmas party...

Baking... Round 2

2010-12-12T18:20:00.003-06:00

I am imagining a rather plump, motherly figure walking around a kitchen stadium carrying a "2" sign instead of some hot, young chick as a "ring girl." We... well mostly the Mr., baked again today.
He was on a roll... chocolate chunk cookies, chocolate peanut butter cookies and two types of fudge. I managed to make two quiche for the freezer and finish a tutu order for Christmas. I am so ready to tuck myself between the sheets and settle for a long Winter's nap! We have had snow, high winds and terrible wind chills... we should have bought the electric mattress pad we were contemplating!

Baking Round 1...

2010-12-11T18:45:00.003-06:00

Okay... the holiday cookie menu so far:
peppermint bark
toasted almond chocolate bark
peanut butter blossoms
oatmeal craisin cookies
M&M chocolate chip cookies
and... more tomorrow
I barely sampled any... burp... excuse me ;)

It's beginning to look a lot like...

2010-12-11T05:22:00.003-06:00

CHRISTMAS! I promise I'm going to work harder at updating this blog! Happy Holidays to all of you

Hallow's eve....

2010-10-30T05:50:00.004-05:00

Have a Happy Halloween! Our house is glittery and I love it! Goosie and Boomer are so excited to go Trick or Treating tomorrow!

My beautiful, Goosie

2010-10-28T06:31:00.004-05:00

Hello! Yep, I'm alive ;). It's been a tumultuous ride here lately with activities, appointments and emotions but I believe all are in check.
I wanted to write about my beautiful daughter and what I witnessed in her classroom yesterday... bear with me... I'm bragging.
I was fortunate yesterday to have a sweet neighbor babysit Boomer so that I could attend Goosie's classroom Halloween party. Oops, I mean Fall Party... forgive my political incorrectness.
It was a fun time with the kids going from station to station. I have to say, it was nice talking her classmates and laughing with them. After all the activities were complete, the "end of the day" madness ensued. Backpacks, agendas, goodie bag distribution... so much to do when you are 6 years old.
The teacher instructed the kids to write in their agendas to indicate to parents there was a new newsletter and spelling words in the agenda. I watched Goosie write down the information, turn her agenda sideways, and help the boy beside her write the information down in the correct spot. This was the same boy that pointed out Goosie's drawing in a mural we did for "Fall Party" and state to me, "She never gives up, she always keeps working at something and never gives up."
I. Love. Her.

Day 16... playing a game

2010-09-13T05:27:00.003-05:00

the kids were playing a game with the Mr. and I caught Goosie's excitement over a great move!

Day 15... rain on the windowpane

2010-09-12T05:18:00.002-05:00

Day 14... a taste of Fall

2010-09-11T07:20:00.002-05:00

Pumpkin spice scones for breakfast

Day 13... life

2010-09-10T07:13:00.001-05:00

homework

2010-09-08T13:15:00.002-05:00

Day 11... waiting

2010-09-07T15:40:00.002-05:00

they are either waiting for food or soap...

Day 10... a pic from Labor day weekend

2010-09-07T06:20:00.003-05:00

Okay, so I cheated... I took this over the holiday weekend. It was one of my favorites. No editing or even cropping... just straight from the camera.

One of the best days ever...

2010-09-04T05:37:00.002-05:00

This Friday morning was so lovely and it just kept reaping the benefits all day long... the Mr. took Goose to school and it totally made her day.
Then, he went to the assessor's office and he applied for our tax exemption that our county gives for returning from places such as Iraq and Afghanistan... totally made my day!
He came home and sat and played games with Boomer! Boomer beamed with joy (say that 10 times!). I was able to sneak in some photos of the two... what made it twice as gorgeous... Autumn winds blew through the open windows of the house. It was an amazingly cool day!
Then, the Mr. packs a big lunch for him and his girl and heads off to the school for lunch. Yes, he makes me smile... in case you were wondering.
The best part of the day... we all go to pick up the Goose from school and just drive.
We found a bakery... awesome and cheap and proves that for those prices... man CAN live by bread alone! (and unfortunately (wink, wink...Boomer left his thermos there so we are heading back tomorrow to get it)
We found some wonderful sights and drove through many a brown stalked corn field.
We found that our favorite orchard is open in the afternoon and they had our favorite cider in the cooler!
We found a small restaurant that had great steak and the Mr. found stomach utopia!
We did come home to take a stroll and found a snake in the yard (no worries... the Mr. did what Mr.'s do and I left the scene of the crime for the walk)
But, best of all, we found ourselves upstairs with everyone tucked in and no one headed to Iraq on a plane which is exactly where we found ourselves last year.

Day 9... Autumn Wind

2010-09-04T05:26:00.003-05:00

curtains blowing in the breeze... I love Fall!

Day 8

2010-09-04T05:22:00.004-05:00

hidden mischief

Day 7... tea time

2010-09-02T09:25:00.003-05:00

edited tea cups and saucers that my grandfather gave me years ago... they were some that my great grandmother had and I love the simple flowers.

Day 6... always a project

2010-09-02T09:23:00.003-05:00

Day 5... a tarnished spoon and a beautiful story

2010-09-01T08:49:00.002-05:00

A woman met with her pastor to discuss her final wishes, as she only had a very short time to live. After they discussed the plans for the funeral, she remembered one final request that was very important to her. She said, "I want to be buried holding a spoon in my right hand." The pastor gazed at the woman, at a loss for words. "That surprises you, doesn't it?" the woman asked. "You see, Pastor, in all my years of attending potluck dinners, I remember that when the dishes were being cleared, someone would lean over to me & say, 'Keep your spoon.' I knew then that something better was coming, like velvety chocolate cake or deep dish apple pie...something wonderful to end the meal!" As the pastor listened a smile came upon his face. The woman continued, "So, I just want people to see me in the casket with a spoon in my hand & I want them to wonder, 'What's with the spoon?'" Then I want you to tell them: "Keep your spoon--the best is yet to come." The pastor's eyes welled up with tears of joy as he hugged her good-bye.

Day 4... she's amazing

2010-08-30T08:28:00.002-05:00

She's six... and I love to read her stories

Day 3... a savior of sorts

2010-08-30T08:24:00.004-05:00

Coffee saves me on Tuesdays... and most days, in general.

Day 2... photo a day challenge

2010-08-29T12:27:00.002-05:00

Fall=apples

A photo a day for 30 days

2010-08-29T07:25:00.004-05:00

I am going to challenge myself to take a photo a day for 30 days. Enjoy!
So here is Day 1

Picture Day!

2010-08-17T12:12:00.002-05:00

The first full week of school... and they are already taking pictures... uh. oh. There was a request to look fabulous. The request came from Goosie and so... I let her run with it. I let her pick the items for a headband. What a DIVA!

Creating Back to School Memories

2010-08-14T06:22:00.003-05:00

Goosie went back to school this week... a very hot, early transition for her. I have been trying diligently to create "traditions" for us. When we lived near family, we used to go out to eat on the first day of school... parents, grandparents, great grandparents and even god parents if they were available. Now, we are here in the Midwest and I want the kids to continue to have a sense of tradition.
Goosie gets a small gift in the morning... a book and an art supply. She draws nearly every day so this is extra special for her.
The "You are Special" plate. I had made these the first year we lived here and the kids love having the charger under their plate.
The small cake... a new tradition but what a great way to reuse their birthday candles (and have an excuse to eat cake).
The poster... just a fun way to celebrate their special year!
Enjoy!

I'm a "Nothing" and I will keep working hard at it...

2010-08-13T12:51:00.002-05:00

Goosie's first day of 1st Grade
I apologize for the blog interruption. The sister of Boomer's Godfather died and we took a trip "home" to be with his sweet Godfather.
After all that traveling alone with the kids, it was time to come home and prepare for the new school year. Goosie kept saying that she wanted to be homeschooled and that she didn't want to go to school this year. It tore me up inside, terribly... But, onward and upward we moved forward with the back to school shopping and prepping for the new year.
Goosie and I had many talks about why school is so important and I asked her if she wanted a career when she grew up and moved on with life. She said, "I want to be nothing... just like you."
silence
shock
tears welling in my eyes
deep breath
coming to terms with what she meant
I had a career at one time... I actually worked until the Christmas break before she was due. I worked in a school where restraints occured daily and it wasn't safe for anyone to be there late in pregnancy. She doesn't understand that I left behind 10 years of teaching to be her Mommy... the best job in the whole entire world.
My paycheck comes in hugs and kisses now. Bonuses are snuggles and sweet memories.
I explained to her that being at home is hard work and I cherish my job... I can't really say that I'm over this one yet.

All you need is... sponge.

2010-07-26T05:59:00.003-05:00

I had seen this idea quite some time ago... it has been EXTREMELY hot here lately so I thought I would have some fun with the kids. To make six sponge balls, simply cut 4 large sponges into strips (I used the short width vs. the height to get more for my money). By the way, the sponges cost $2.00 total... a cheap activity! Gather the strips in groups of 4 or 5 and tie them in the middle with string.
We used two buckets of water and set up a "battlefield" in the backyard. BOMBS AWAY!!!! We had so many giggles and the sponges were just the right size for the kid's hands. I do not have pictures of the actual battle because there was WAY too much water for the Canon Rebel AND I was laughing WAY too hard to take the time to stop!
We rewarded the entire team with some leftover cookies... that part is optional.

Movie Night

2010-07-25T06:48:00.002-05:00

Well... the kids were so excited for the movie night and then... lightening and rain. It was very heavy rain. Operation Movie Night was moved indoors with the few sweet neighbors that decided to continue with the movie inside our home.

Summer...

2010-07-23T05:58:00.002-05:00

What does Summer mean to you? Here it has been agonizingly HOT. With heat indexes as high as 110 degrees and humidity that clings to the windows, we have been keeping curtains closed and limiting our usage of electricity. I don't know why but, I still don't want to see it come to an end. I have loved the lazy days, silly days, and even the crazy days. Goosie is growing too fast for my taste and Boomer will start Preschool a couple of days a week. He has a backpack and he is so excited... someone come and pull him from my arms that day and take him into school... I don't think I have the heart to walk him into that world just yet.

Done, Done, Finished ;)... the pink Parisian room

2010-07-19T18:18:00.001-05:00

and she loves it! SCORE!!!!!!!!