Cool Tricks Feature and Giveaway

Cool Tricks, my sponsor, offers an array of holiday gift options including baby bibs, potholder sets, ornaments, quilts and most importantly, toys!  I'm always searching for unconventional gifts, something special and different. Cool Tricks offers just that and the opportunity to purchase something handmade and one of a kind.  Isn't it more attractive to purchase something from an artisan than a big box store?  Food for thought.  


Here are my holiday picks from this talented artist....

This Retro Red Potholder Set would make a wonderful and affordable hostess gift

Playtime Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich is perfect for your budding chef!

This Plush Birdie would make a lovely grabby toy or pillow for the little one in your life!

This Giant Octopus would be a giant hit under the tree!

What a perfect gift for baby!  This Little Critters Reversible Quilt

• Up for grabs: Cool Tricks is giving away a set of her potholders!
• Start your holiday shopping:  Visit Cool Tricks to see all the gift options!
• Enter to win:  Visit Cool Tricks and come back here and comment your favorite item from her shop

Extra entries:  

• Heart Cool Tricks on Etsy here
• Leave a comment here telling me about your favorite holiday tradition 
• Follow my blog or comment if you already are one!
• Blog about the giveaway (come back here and tell me that you did so)
• Grab my button

This giveaway will end on Tuesday, November 30th at 9AM EST.  Open to residents in US only, ages 18+

Stay tuned for my next spotlighted shop, just in time for the holiday rush!

Grease is the word...

That is, if GREASE = Vaseline

Here goes my Sydney story from last week.  I to take a much needed shower (how dare I!)  I set her up with crayons, stickers and all sorts of activities that would occupy your average two year old, or so I thought.  I get out of the shower and spy Ms Sydney with a clear glob hanging off the side of her hair and (of course) one on the other side.  Her face has a subtle sheen you might catch on a snow bunny off for a day of skiing.  I make my way into her room, only to find the substance all over the walls and the dresser and the diaper caddy, on the floor with a huge fistful (make that a couple of fistfuls) of the goo missing. 

After five hair washings,  she was still greasy and stringy.  I ended up checking out a couple of websites, like Mamapedia and found that I was not alone.  Apparently, this is a common occurrence among little ones.  The general consensus is to actually use baby oil to remove the stuff but others used random things including dish soap, cornstarch and peanut butter?  In the end, I used a bar of Ivory Soap, which did the trick.  Needless to say we no longer have Vaseline in our house but I'm sure it's only a matter of time before she discovers the next "big thing".  Seriously, is there a meeting that the two year olds of America attend to keep their parents on their toes?

Cool Tricks Feature and Giveaway

Welcome to one of my new sponsors, Cool Tricks.  

This mother of five (granny of five too) specializes in handmade toys, quilts and other fun things.  The best thing about her shop is...

 "All items are originals designed by me, Toni, and are lovingly made in my home, one at a time, no assembly line involved."

These items are made in the USA, in a small town in Montana.  They are unique, original and one of a kind.  Take a look at some favorites:

Meet Rosie, an adorable little pink plush octopus toy

Lots of places to grab onto of this little beast dinosaur plush toy

Two in one!  The reversible baby toddler quilt with beautiful pinks and flowers

Key rings full of personality

A lovely Plush Orange Bird Toy

  Plush Dachshund Kip Toy Puppy with super soft minky ears

Beautiful yellow and steel gray Goldfinch Pot Holders

Toni is offering up one of her adorable Octopus Plush Toys to one lucky winner!

Buy It!  Visit Cool Tricks to purchase. 

How do you enter?  Visit Cool Tricks and comment here which item you like the most from her shop.  Please be sure to leave your email address so I will be able to contact you if you win.

Extra entries (please post comments separately)

• Get an extra entry for adding Cool Tricks as one of your Etsy favorites here
• Get an extra entry for adding the owner's other shop, TweedleBee as one of your Etsy faves here
• Get an extra entry for becoming a follower of my blog or comment if you already are one!
• Get an extra entry if you blog about this giveaway (leave a link to your blog) 
• Get an extra entry if you grab my blog button (leave a link to your blog)

This giveaway will end on Sunday, October 31st at 6:00 PM EST.  Winners will be drawn at random.  Open to US residents, 18 years +

Little lessons

We certainly miss our big sister during the weeks.  The school days are long for both mama and the little one!  Luckily, she's been able to find a substitute breakfast partner...

In this shot I caught her speaking with her favorite dolly, Abby about appropriate breakfast food choices.  She very quietly said, "Mama doesn't want that cookie for you!"  Gee....they know me so well!

Little Yogi

Both my girls love yoga and enjoy doing it together.  Since Riley has been in school during the day now, Sydney seems a little lost at times but hasn't forgotten her love of yoga.  Here's a recent shot of her getting ready to do a pose.  

PBS Kids has a stretch of the week here that we try to work on.  

I also love the Yoga Pretzel cards available from Barefoot Books.  They have both Yoga Pretzels, Yoga Planet and the book, My Daddy is a Pretzel.  The cards are fun, interactive and are appropriate for kids of all ages!  For more yoga options, click here

Enjoy your day! 

Java Girls Feature and Giveaway - Sunday Style!

Happy 4th of July everybody!

Up for grabs - Custom and Personalized Child's Journal from Java Girls

A little more about the artist and shop owner - "We have combined our love for scrapbooking with our passion for journaling to create our keepsake altered journals and other items. Begin preserving your precious memories, and explore the joys of writing with Java Girls' altered journals and more."

Browse some of the collection here:

I love the Letters to My Son Journal

Personalized at no extra charge, this Child's Journal would make a creative gift!

 Custom Personalized Baby Scrapbook 

Great Vintage Style Planner

My favorite, the To Do List Notebook, on sale for only $9!

Win One!  Java Girls is giving away one custom and personalized Kid's Journal to a lucky reader!

Buy One!  Visit Java Girls to purchase

How do you enter?  Visit Java Girlsand comment which journal is your favorite.  Please be sure to leave your email address so I will be able to contact you if you win.

Extra entries (please post comments separately):

• Get an extra entry for becoming a fan of Java Girls on Facebook here 
• Get an extra entry for subscribing to Java Girls' RSS feed here
• Get an extra entry for becoming a follower of Java Girls' blog here
• Get an extra entry for becoming a follower of my blog or comment if you already are one!
• Get an extra entry for entering the Holly Days Designs giveaway at Girly Girl Giveaways
• Get two extra entries if you blog about this giveaway (leave a link to your blog) 
• Get two extra entries if you grab my blog button (leave a link to your blog)  
• Get five extra entries for grabbing the Make a Wish event button at the top right on the blog (leave a link so I can see where)

This giveaway will end on Sunday, July 18th at 7pm EST.  Winners will be drawn at random.  Open to US and Canada, 18 years +

Only One Feature and Giveaway

Up for grabs:  An adorable handknit Owl rattle from Only One

A little more about the designer and owner - "I named it Only One because each item is the �only one� of its kind! Also, when I was young, my parents called naptime an "only one", and each of my toys would be perfect for little kids to keep them company during their naps."

Adorable one-of-a-kind stuffies?  Sign me up!  Check out some of the cutest creations here:

Miss Birdie is sure to "cheer up any space and keep you company!"

Miss Hedie would be perfect for a Baby Shower or Birthday

Mervin the Giraffe is the perfect size to cuddle and hold

Poppy the Owl Rattle is safe and cuddly and she could be YOURS!

Buy it!  Head on over to Only One to check out the adorable selection of hand knit goods

Win it!  Only One is giving away a handknit owl rattle, like the one sitting on the tree above, too cute!

How do you enter?  Check out Only One and come back here to comment which lovely is your favorite.  Please remember to leave your email address so that I can contact you if you are the winner.

Extra entries (please comment seperately for each entry):

Get one extra entry for adding Only One to your Etsy favorites here

Get one extra entry for becoming a follower of my blog, or comment here if you already are one!

Get one extra entry for entering the Make a Wish Girly Girl giveaway of the day here

Get two extra entries if you blog about this giveaway (leave link please)

Get two extra entries if you grab my blog's button (leave link please)

Get five extra entries if you grab the Make A Wish button (leave link)

Giveaway will end on July 16th, 2010 at 7pm EST.  Open to US and Canada residents, ages 18+

 

Lil' Miss Polka Dot Feature and Giveaway

Up first - We are giving away a personalized wall hanging!

"My family means the world to me" was the statement that grabbed my attention when I was first introduced to this super sweet Etsy shop, Lil' Miss Polka Dot.  Inspired by her three children, this stay at home Mom is crafty and creative.  Check out some of her items here:

Lily Sweet Fabric Doll, the perfect alternative to the usual baby doll!

 

I know a little one on the way who would look adorable in this Tie Onesie

Pink Princess Personalized Painting for the pink lover

 This Flowers and Butterfly Painting on Canvas would work with a variety of bedding

This Little Pink Bird Softie is simple and sweet

Buy it!  Visit Lil' Miss Polka Dot and view the collection!

Win Some!  Lil' Miss Polka Dot is giving away a custom made, personalized wall hanging  

How do you enter?  Visit Lil' Miss Polka Dot and comment here who would get the item if you win.  Please be sure to leave your email address so I will be able to contact you if you win.

Extra entries (please post comments separately):

• Get an extra entry for becoming a fan of Lil' Miss Polkadot on Facebook here 
• Get an extra entry for becoming a Twitter follower here
• Get an extra entry for becoming a follower of Lil' Miss Polkadot's blog here
• Get an extra entry for becoming a follower of my blog or comment if you already are one!
• Get an extra entry for entering the Pillow Pet giveaway at Girly Girl Giveaways
• Get two extra entries if you blog about this giveaway (leave a link to your blog) 
• Get two extra entries if you grab my blog button (leave a link to your blog)  
• Get five extra entries for grabbing the Make a Wish event button at the top right on the blog (leave a link so I can see where)

This giveaway will end on Thursday, July 15th at 7:00pm EST.  Winners will be drawn at random.  Open to US and Canada, 18 years +


Don't forget today's Pillow Pet giveaway over at Girly Girl Giveaways!

Late night fashion shoot

Anybody who has read my blog knows that my children fancy my camera.  It goes missing every once and a while only to return without a word.  The evidence is all on the camera.  The other night, long after "bedtime", I heard little digital beeps. First, I went to Riley's room to find...no Riley, then I headed into our bedroom in the dark.  Apparently there was a fashion shoot going on in my bathroom with our two favorite pups.  Here are some of my the highlights...

 Experimenting with shadows...

"Hey, did you hear that?"

Experimenting with motion

I don't know how long this was going on but what I do know is that are 22 various photos from the shoot.  And yes, Lucky and Penny are photographed on our toliet, how artistic.

Birds and Bugs...

Working on a few custom orders for The Paper Stork recently, inspired me to add a few more goodies to the shop.  

Out on a Limb Mama Bird

Did I mention, I love birdies?  The Bond: Mama and Baby Birdies

I made a similar piece for a custom order and a nursery of pink and brown accents.   Two of a Kind

You may notice that several pieces are available now without frames.  What does that mean to you?  You can customize your frame and most importantly, even more affordable!  What better way to give your little one's room a makeover?  

As always, I love fulfilling custom orders so, if you see something you'd like in a different color scheme or theme, email me and I'd be happy to help!

Piggies

In the past, I've talked about my missing camera (read more here).  Last weekend, my littlest one "borrowed" it and took a few snapshots.  I had forgotten and after downloading my pics, found these...

She certainly takes after her big sister and apparently, has a fondness for her feet.  

 

 The Easter Bunny gave each of them a disposable camera but apparently, they prefer to use Mamas.   

HAVE A HAPPY TUESDAY, MAYBE IT'S A GOOD DAY FOR A HOME PEDICURE!

Quote of the day...

Having kids keeps life entertaining for certain.  I just caught myself saying, "Please take the cat out of the cooler" without hesitation.  Thanks Good Gravy, for reminding me that all kids say the silliest things and we don't think twice about it!  Read more here.

Speaking of Good Gravy! they are offering free shipping with no minimum purchase until Friday - call it the luck of the Irish!

PS - Yes, that's one giant, scruffy Persian cat tail you're seeing.  Sorry, you can't have it for your hat ;)

Our masterpiece

It's so easy to go about our day to day and fail to really appreciate the little things.  Sometimes I catch myself thinking, in wonder, about time.  

Yes, time flies - it flies so quickly that you can't always catch yourself in the moment.  We tell ourselves to slow down but life just happens.  We hide behind the business of everyday.

Then again, there are moments that show you just what has evolved.

 

Wasn't it just last year that Riley drew that beautiful picture of me and dada?  The sun was shining and we were so proud of our hairdos and smiles that she had created.  Now, take a look at this year's picture.  There I am, red earrings and all.  The picture, reflected with so much more detail and artistic expression (ok, maybe that's the mama in me but check out those colors!)  Not sure why I have those earrings on, of course - as I haven't worn any since she was born and also, I'm noticing that my hair is in desperate need of some highlights).  Either way, the picture shows the progress of time...and the evidence that she is growing and evolving.

Wasn't it just yesterday that Sydney couldn't hold a marker?  Here, she has made her very own masterpiece.

So, I'll remind myself again: 

Appreciate it

Take it in

Be grateful

Your life is our own little masterpiece that you've created...

You're getting crafty...ALL ABOUT THE BUTTONS GIVEAWAY

Up first...

ALL ABOUT THE BUTTONS

Click on the link above and visit this unique and fun Etsy shop.  They specialize in handcrafted clocks and accessories.  Then, leave a comment on my blog about who gets this Cupid inspired barrette if you are the lucky winner.

 

Decisions, decisions...I have a few sweeties in my life who would think this is just fabulous!

This giveaway runs from today until Sunday, Feb 7th.  Winner will be chosen at random.org
Eligibility: 
Everyone 18+ /United States and Canada (No PO Boxes)

Etsy love

I can't believe how many talented people are out there.  I often find myself spending way too much time sacked out in front of Etsy, scouring the different shops and just wishing I was that good.

Etsy, for those of you who don't know, is a wonderful place to buy and sell handmade items.  

In honor of all that craftiness, we're running four very special giveaways...just in time for Valentine's Day!  They'll run Wednesday, February 3rd through Sunday, February 7th and the winners will be announced on Monday.  We'll draw the winners at random.

Here are the special shops that will be featured:

MartiniSQ

This stay at home mom of 3 boys sews, decorates and enjoys working with re purposed wool, cashmere, angora, felt and yarn. She actually felts material and gives life to old sweaters as well.  I love, love, love the baby longies!  She also sells adorable booties, overalls and hand knit toys as well as stylish arm warmers, which could come in mighty handy around these parts!
Visit her blog at martinisq-martinisq.blogspot.com and her beautiful Etsy Shop!

SCRAP WITH STYLE 
  A super cute scrapbooking shop that features vintage and modern inspired papers, ribbons and scrapbook accessories.  Offering a little something for everyone, she specializes in unique papers and quality scrapbook items.  She runs a blog, janellescraps.com, where she shares project ideas and offers a monthly newsletter.  Check out her Etsy shop and view the variety of items. You can also get fan only promo codes when you become a fan on www.facebook.com/scrapwithstyle

FANCY THAT COOKIES
Say YUM to this sweet shop full of goodies!   All ingredients are FRESH, PRESERVATIVE FREE and the shop will fulfill special dietary needs.  The expert pasty chef at this shop will satisfy your sweet tooth.  Some drool worthy selections include the Chocolate Chip Lavender Cookies, French Orange Chocolate Dipped Madalines and their Valentine's Day special, Nutty Chocolate Truffles.  She also offers sweet gluten free items like rum balls and peanut butter cookies.  Check out the gluten free options! What a great and special gift for your sweetie...or yourself! Check out the blog at fancythatcookies.blogspot.com

ALL ABOUT THE BUTTONS 
The artist specializes in fibers and buttons.  Unique, handcrafted clocks, funky pins and button barrettes.  This shop caught my attention when I was looking for a little something for my girl's Valentine's Day baskets.  Every piece is different and fun!

Visit her shops at:

www.allaboutthebuttons.etsy.com

www.allaboutthefiber.etsy.com

http://www.zibbet.com/allaboutthebuttons

 

 

This makes me want to give a great, big hug to all these incredibly talented and creative crafters!  Check back tomorrow for your chance to win something from each of these great Etsy shops!  I can hardly wait!