tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32811555641476990822023-11-16T10:54:44.232-05:00Pandy's of Lake SunapeeMichelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.comBlogger92125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281155564147699082.post-87469532538876766612009-09-15T08:39:00.002-04:002009-09-15T08:43:06.944-04:00Just Another Day<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU8IRCTQFwBE2i80kCyk0eqlhjT2kLNdoIqIxvNX6w_WADJTGyHj5eaySPYgm1E_w39731pjvP0vNC8BDHCILCuYvRv_3wD2tcMvf4FfE9ZxQ55qgREt1VIaJGCR1Dmi1LizC_ntm5x_A/s1600-h/choc+mint+bag+white.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 298px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU8IRCTQFwBE2i80kCyk0eqlhjT2kLNdoIqIxvNX6w_WADJTGyHj5eaySPYgm1E_w39731pjvP0vNC8BDHCILCuYvRv_3wD2tcMvf4FfE9ZxQ55qgREt1VIaJGCR1Dmi1LizC_ntm5x_A/s320/choc+mint+bag+white.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381673719212031922" /></a><br />Yes, you, too, can appear rather humdrum about the day when using this adorable tote. You know where your keys, cell phone, wallet and sunglasses are. You know your tote is stylish, yet not yet another fad of the minute. You are confident in your smile, your bag and yourself.<br /><br />Outside of tote is made up of 100% cotton, machine pieced and machine quilted, lining is chocolate brown cotton. Polyester batting is sandwiched between the 2 layers. The handles are cotton webbing with grosgrain ribbon sewn on top.<br /><br />Bag measures 7 inches (18 cm) wide, 8 inches (20.5 cm) high and 4 inches (10 cm) deep. Handles are 3/4 inch (10 cm) wide and have a 10 inch (25.5 cm) drop.<br /><br />Shipping rate is for first class mail. Feel free to contact me if you would like to purchase shipping insurance or have this bag sent priority mail.<br /><br />Custom orders always welcomed<br /><br />Thanks for looking!Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281155564147699082.post-673866382121822342009-09-14T21:54:00.002-04:002009-09-14T21:59:36.971-04:00Cats Really Aren't Sewing HelpersI know I should have a picture to go with this post. I should really have a lot of things in a lot of places, but that's another post for another day. My daughter's dance school is doing the Nutcracker in December. The costumes are gorgeous, which, unfortunately, equals expensive. So, we are sewing many of them to keep the cost down. Sounds good, right? Well, I'm trying to put together a bodice out of muslin, so we can try it on the girls and see how it fits, where it needs to be altered for each girl, etc. Now, I can sew but I really don't know what I'm doing when it comes to alterations. I have a cheat sheet somewhere...(see second sentence in this post) so looks like I'm going to learn all about alterations. <br /><br />However, before I can alter something I have to have it assembled. Enter George, the Unhelper. He shreds patterns...he jumps on the fabric as I'm tracing the pattern onto it, he eats pins, he tries to grab the spool of thread off the sewing machine, he will randomly jump on my back/shoulder/head with no warning whatsoever, just 'cuz he wants to.......so rather than bleed all over the place (he has very sharp claws) and get all frustrated and mess up, I'm calling it quits and will try this again in the morning. Let's face it, cats are nocturnal and with any luck, his "energetic" butt will be sacked out in a window tomorrow morning, or so I hope.Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281155564147699082.post-88189722475872495622009-09-13T12:24:00.003-04:002009-09-13T12:29:55.182-04:00Remember Me?What a summer! Aside from the fact that it rained all of June and most of July...I had my foot surgery and it went well. However, the pain meds screwed up my sleep schedule and even with satellite, there really isn't too much on in the wee hours of the morning. I realized the cheezy movie "Staying Alive" has actually gotten cheezier in the decades since it's original release.<br /><br />My children really stepped up and took care of themselves and me. They made me breakfast every morning and brought it to me on the couch. However, they'd pour my cereal, pour on the milk and then pour their own and eat it. Cheerios are pretty gross after sitting in milk for about 20 minutes.<br /><br />They had a great summer of swimming lessons....Sarah can swim now. Not super far, but..and she's lost her 2 front teeth. She loved tennis and had a blast sailing. Griffin is right behind her in the swimming department, he loved tennis, but didn't sail.<br /><br />I had a major klutz moment, walked into the blade of the pole saw (the nasty looking arched blade on the end of a long pole that you use to cut tree branches while standing on the ground) and ripped a hole in the side of my face. Four sutures later, it did heal pretty well, not a very bad scar..but, I did go straight from the ER in Manchester to the lake and went sailing for 2 hours with my friend who was visiting from L.A. There are priorities in life, after all.<br /><br />I didn't get much sailing done, but Michael had a good season.<br /><br />Other things I learned...I play croquet AND Trivial Pursuit much better when moderate amounts of alcohol are consumed, by me. Who knew?????<br /><br />Once I get all unpacked and find my card reader, I'll post pictures.Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281155564147699082.post-16772930880818909072009-04-09T11:57:00.002-04:002009-04-09T12:08:32.082-04:00ToesI learned a lot more about my big toe today than I ever knew before. I don't know about you, but I really don't pay a lot of attention to my toes. In fact, I have quite unattractive feet, especially my big toes. Actually, they are ugly. They are just those things at the end of my feet to help me walk.<br /><br />About a year and half ago, I dropped a large piece of firewood on the end of my big toe, turned the nail black, and the big joint was sore. It all healed and I thought that was the end of it. Then, this winter, my son ran by me, I was sitting down with my feet up-something I rarely do-caught my big toe and yanked it to the side and it's hurt ever since. Some days I can't even bend it enough to get it in a shoe. <br /><br />Last Sunday, I decided my rock garden HAD to leave. I was wearing sneakers, not my steel toed boots (I have explained to my husband numerous times that I didn't plan on ripping out the rock garden in sneakers, it just happened, but he doesn't understand such things) and while standing on top of the retaining wall, dropped a very large, 30 pound flat rock on my joint. It made the whole thing feel better.<br /><br />So, the main point of this blog post (finally) I have the start of a bunion. That in itself does not sit well. Aren't bunions something old ladies get? I'm not ready to do the weekly perm and blue dye job yet..but dropping something on the END of my toe and having my toe wrenched to the side did more damage then dropping a rock right on the joint. Extreme force at the end of the bone causes more torque on the joint, thus causing more damage, then extreme force right on top of the joint.<br /><br />The moral of my story? Sitting down with your feet up can cause severe damage to your big toe joints, so I guess I won't be doing that again anytime soon. And, if you are going to drop something on your toe, don't do the "toe scrinch", you know, scrinching your toes up so they aren't sticking out as far? Just relax and let the large, heavy object land right on the top of your feet and toes.Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281155564147699082.post-65416159325609153632009-04-08T10:17:00.003-04:002009-04-08T10:25:52.818-04:00Spring has Sprung<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHPTFsWJ7BXY21rCGHqcUiTPGpANf0g5y6VObux3tsG2OzXpw79e_sSdh2Ls-ikZeF7KutI5tlLcy0-3vuhAxSLTppB0ZYTSR5b09T4wVUuDhXZAsJa3eURitxjbZ0i97iRb8FL9FrwbE/s1600-h/bees+new.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 292px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHPTFsWJ7BXY21rCGHqcUiTPGpANf0g5y6VObux3tsG2OzXpw79e_sSdh2Ls-ikZeF7KutI5tlLcy0-3vuhAxSLTppB0ZYTSR5b09T4wVUuDhXZAsJa3eURitxjbZ0i97iRb8FL9FrwbE/s320/bees+new.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322326178660837778" /></a><br />So, I'm back trying to blog, I've been really working hard on decluttering my house. The last room I have to tackle is the sewing room. Let's just say I got burned out at Christmas sewing for family and friends...besides etsy....and I literally piled my bags of fleece right inside the sewing room door.......there is lots of sorting and organizing to be done, but I'm getting ready and have some new ideas to work on.<br /><br />I'm also studying for my state licences for life insurance and securities. Yeah, I know. Like I needed to start a new business venture with all my spare time.<br /><br />My seeds are sprouting, if it stops raining for 2 days in a row, the peas and lettuce are going in. The vegetable bed is thawed, and the first batch of compost has been added and worked in. Just waiting to have the time to assemble the pea fences and put them up...and for the ground to be dry enough to support them. <br /><br />So, in honor of spring, and nature..and all of us frantically getting out to enjoy the warm weather and gardens....please enjoy my Busy Bees quilt.Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281155564147699082.post-42649099480921181752009-04-07T07:48:00.004-04:002009-04-07T08:05:23.226-04:00Remember me?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhACB4wH0TtHgd_1Tq8QHUMaCOYgqAP5VvUiwY2liCL0SEIoWGJ61sd5K9EZQU_dtJLgmBis9XO8tBv-nCkQsMEcRTlq4JEfuT2Jmd6X1xUDFfsETztMiWOJmo0vkdO6rEc4hXD4QS78i0/s1600-h/parrots+new.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 274px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhACB4wH0TtHgd_1Tq8QHUMaCOYgqAP5VvUiwY2liCL0SEIoWGJ61sd5K9EZQU_dtJLgmBis9XO8tBv-nCkQsMEcRTlq4JEfuT2Jmd6X1xUDFfsETztMiWOJmo0vkdO6rEc4hXD4QS78i0/s320/parrots+new.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5321919186039713394" /></a><br />Yeah, I know. It's been a while...in fact, a VEEEEEEEEEEEEERRRRRRRRRRRYYYYYY long time since I've updated my blog. I've been busy. Since my last post, my garage has been de-cluttered and on Valentine's Day, my car went in (it's been about 4 years since that last happened) Slowly and methodically, the entire house is losing the crap. Guess what? It's much easier to keep it not only neat and tidy, but actually CLEAN when there isn't stuff everywhere. <br /><br />I've finally discovered I don't need more storage, I just need less stuff. It's been great to donate so many of my treasures that I don't have a use for. I know someone else is getting some enjoyment from them and I'm helping someone else less fortunate in the process. A win-win all around.<br /><br />So, I have this great bag...Won't you check it out? (yes, the next room to attack is the sewing room...)Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281155564147699082.post-11635968975241783132009-01-14T19:25:00.004-05:002009-01-14T19:45:26.803-05:00Life, Death and FriendsToday I was able to go celebrate the life of a wonderful woman, Viola Fleming. When I heard of her passing, I knew I would be attending the funeral service no matter what, it wasn't a question, it was a definite.<br /><br />I met this woman named Cathey when I worked for an equine surgeon. She was close to my mother's age, but had such a sense of humor and such a warm personality, we quickly went from just coworkers to very close friends. I rode one of her horses. Bear (actually, Cathey's son, Aaron's horse) and must admit to some pretty crazy riding adventures in the woods of Pembroke. I attended family events and parties and got know Cathey's family. Meme, as Viola was called by her grandchildren, had a wonderful sense of humor, a great smile, but had no problems telling anyone if they weren't exercising the best judgement. I was not immune from this...and you know what? She was right. I was about to do something stupid.<br /><br />Cathey's sister, Susie quickly became a friend, also, along with Susie's daughter, Missy. I left the vet clinic but still rode Bear. Then, Bear injured her leg and I stopped riding her. I was no longer at Cathey's house every day, and eventually moved to Manchester. However, I kept in touch with Missy via email, attended Missy's baby shower and her son's christening. I would see everyone every few years and we'd pick up right where we left off. We didn't see each other much anymore, it happens to everyone, life gets in the way, but we still had that connection.<br /><br />Today, I really felt the connection. I walked into the church, late, per usual, and went right up to the front and sat behind Missy and the rest of the family and didn't think twice about it. I was doing okay until I saw Susie teary, I started to cry then and when I hugged Cathey, well, I did wonder why I wasted my time putting on makeup this morning. It was a wonderful service...but the best credit to Viola is her family. They all know what's really important. I haven't seen any of them in over a year, yet I was immediately included in the family. There were some family members I didn't remember or hadn't met, but it didn't matter. Today, I was a Fleming. Maybe not by blood, but in the heart, where it really matters. <br /><br />So, Meme, Rest in Peace. Your memory will always be alive and your kind and generous heart rests in your children and grandchildren. I feel blessed to be a part of it.Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281155564147699082.post-67369264179617765532009-01-11T19:37:00.003-05:002009-01-11T19:42:32.642-05:00January is SNOWY<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSHeLm846HmyCMdsAG9rXu6BZTgx2zrNd60_fdBcLrJdZXh3WS8XTBwUvx8Nf-ni8EPoEAZ-IdJIZ9W7frlzPlcwbKh4t1H-B4plz5rHsEqMYwWGEe8nk9NXIyBSyzz_47IcMuIGbDghc/s1600-h/101_0721.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSHeLm846HmyCMdsAG9rXu6BZTgx2zrNd60_fdBcLrJdZXh3WS8XTBwUvx8Nf-ni8EPoEAZ-IdJIZ9W7frlzPlcwbKh4t1H-B4plz5rHsEqMYwWGEe8nk9NXIyBSyzz_47IcMuIGbDghc/s320/101_0721.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290200906307123762" /></a><br />We got about 8 inches of snow last night and this morning. The kids have been going outside every chance they can get. Michael took them outside tonight, before dinner, but after dark. They thought that was really pretty cool.<br /><br />They were sliding down the hills, the snowbanks, everything, using sleds, their stomachs and a summer floaty tube the neighbor loaned them. Unlike years past, this year, it's actually tiring them out, instead of wiring them!Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281155564147699082.post-69273359761046509822009-01-10T16:23:00.002-05:002009-01-10T16:30:21.275-05:00something new...something blueI usually blog about the crazy antics of my children or what I've created in my etsy shops. Today, I'm doing something different. I'm going to share one of my favorite recipes. Healthy eating isn't a real big thing in our house, if it happens, it happens. We tend to lean toward taste....and this is something that incorporates both. (and don't let the Bran in the recipe title scare you. You can always use softened cream cheese as a spread if it makes you feel less healthy)<br /><br />Blueberry Applesauce Bran Muffins--(and they don't taste like sawdust)<br />1 1/4 c all purpose flour<br />1 c Quaker brand Unprocessed Bran (recipe is off the back of the box)<br />1/2 c sugar<br />1 T baking powder<br />3/4 t cinnamon<br />1/2 t salt<br />3/4 c unsweetened applesauce<br />1/4 skim milk (I use whatever milk I have in the house)<br />1/4 c vegetable oil<br />1 egg, beaten<br />1 c fresh or frozen (do not thaw) blueberries OR 1/2 c raisins<br /><br />Heat oven to 400 degrees, line 12 c muffin pan with papers or grease bottoms only.<br />Mix dry ingredients in large bowl. Mix applesauce, milk, oil and egg in a medium bowl, add all at once to dry ingredients, stirring just until blended (do not over mix) add fruit, if desired. Fill muffin cups 2/3 full and bake 18-20 mins, until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with few moist crumbs clinging to it. Cool in pan on rack 5 mins, then remove from pan, serve warm.<br /><br />To freeze, wrap tightly in foil or place in freezer bag, freeze up to 6 months.Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281155564147699082.post-29831076771088327142009-01-08T15:11:00.002-05:002009-01-08T15:18:22.143-05:00No Fainting...but...I blogged! After a few months off..due to camera problems, hectic life, but most of all, computer problems, I am back to share my lovely pearls of wisdom with you all once again.<br /><br />In the "off season" we had my daughter's birthday. She got a pair of very fancy jeans with a purple sparkly belt...opened them and said, Mummy, look, a really cool belt with jeans attached (she turned 6).<br /><br />At the Christmas pageant rehearsal, my son, the shepard, turned his hat around so the back was covering his face and shouted, "Good Lord, I can't see a thing".<br /><br />Christmas was great, Santa brought Sarah a scooter, which she really wanted, however, she realized the kitchen is a lot smaller on a moving scooter than on her own two feet. And the cabinets are sturdy.<br /><br />Griffin got the 3 trains he really wanted, Spencer, Bertie the Bus, and Henrietta who is Toby's coach. He also got a freight yard with a tractor trailer so Daddy can play trains, also.<br /><br />Our New Years wasn't so great. We had the barf bug that week. I think I'm finally caught up on laundry. I did tons of laundry after Christmas (I mentioned Griffin needed new underpants, casually, at Thanksgiving. He got over 40 pairs for Christmas. We did Christmas with my family on the 28th, my mom said she couldn't find any underwear in his size for his stocking. I told her my husband's entire family bought it all out) and then, to top it all off, after yet another load of sheets, blankets and towels, the cat barfed in the laundry basket of clean laundry. What fun.<br /><br />So, now my computer is working, it's snowing, I've blogged and I think we're all going to go read a Magic Tree House book and snuggle on the couch.Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281155564147699082.post-16533637539818484232008-11-16T13:11:00.003-05:002008-11-16T13:18:35.281-05:00Toasty Tootsies..Adult Style<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWVYz_1Hb5HcvAUu4I8YwlIUPC_NqGpho3lFMP9_YcwTD4JUPOnPWdh1uW6m56ZAD5LWY5Szr7d4zcQbNy4eh6ag0IjON7KwWkArNeiEsuPgij0x1WuWljttlIQMkZ5yOcP6lQEnaCjbM/s1600-h/adult+fleece+slipper+side.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 281px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWVYz_1Hb5HcvAUu4I8YwlIUPC_NqGpho3lFMP9_YcwTD4JUPOnPWdh1uW6m56ZAD5LWY5Szr7d4zcQbNy4eh6ag0IjON7KwWkArNeiEsuPgij0x1WuWljttlIQMkZ5yOcP6lQEnaCjbM/s320/adult+fleece+slipper+side.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5269320986248746130" /></a><br />I did the fleece slippers for my boys (and girls) shop, GriffinGear and decided I needed some for the larger footed adults in the world, so, new from my shop Pandys, adult fleece slippers. You pick the size and color and I do the rest.<br /><br />My husband told me my old slippers gave him the creeps. They were the suede ones with the fake sheepskin lining. Very warm, but he said that's what his mom wore. I had another pair that were more of a slide slipper. I hated the fwap, fwap, fwap noise they made. And, for those of you that know me....I am not the most organized and tend to take things off here and there and never remember where I left my shoes, keys, wallet, phone, etc. So, I can run downstairs, slip on rainboots or winter boots, do what I have to do, then take my boots off and I still have my slippers on my feet. Can't do that with other types of slippers.Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281155564147699082.post-57239594190264267552008-11-13T10:44:00.003-05:002008-11-13T10:48:37.847-05:00Fleece Slippers<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij9fP5O08ycAuLXgeIu9q_1qtwhYGBa9VkwRAq2h_SGiR8_Ricffk_3b2n1VQamdzRfB7GZWH1FBAW2QRkoS2Aoj_t95j-4NgJWS_Tz1wr8L2Ovg2UTZymta2PdMckvEUIS4SXQ17NInQ/s1600-h/Children's+Custom+Fleece+Slippers.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 282px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij9fP5O08ycAuLXgeIu9q_1qtwhYGBa9VkwRAq2h_SGiR8_Ricffk_3b2n1VQamdzRfB7GZWH1FBAW2QRkoS2Aoj_t95j-4NgJWS_Tz1wr8L2Ovg2UTZymta2PdMckvEUIS4SXQ17NInQ/s320/Children's+Custom+Fleece+Slippers.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5268169395627592338" /></a><br />I have listed a new item today..for babies, kids and adults....Fleece Slippers. You pick the size and color...and I make the slippers. How cool is that? They are easy to slip on and off...I have a pair and I slip on my winter boots, rain boots..whatever..with them on, then when I come back in the house, I already have my slippers on. Yes, I am all about convenience (or, you could say I'm lazy, depends on your perspective!)<br /><br />Not only are they fun to make, I LOVE working with people to create something special, something just for them.Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281155564147699082.post-38454127947676350472008-11-12T17:04:00.002-05:002008-11-12T17:10:37.232-05:00Fall is GorgeousToday was a perfect fall day....sunny day, crisp breeze.....we walked to both schools this morning, I raked leaves for a while, walked to get both kids after school...they love fall, too. They dragged their feet through the piles of leaves on the side of the road, enjoyed the breeze...they are so fun to watch.<br /><br />After the past few weeks of sewing like a mad fool for the craft fair, this week I'm doing whatever my kids want...within reason. Yesterday we played Clifford Bingo, Clue, Jr., Ear Tug, Cootie, Ants in the Pants and Go Fish. We read lots of stories, built great towers out of cardboard blocks to house both Barbie and trains, and just had fun. We also went to the Veteran's Day Parade to pay our respects to those Veteran's who fought for our country's values.<br /><br />I've also decided that after the kids go to bed, I'll sew for a bit, but I also need to take some time for myself. Read a book, watch TV or knit. Last winter I taught myself how to knit, but stopped over the summer. Now that fall's back, it's dark sooner, the needles are calling my name. So, later tonight, after the dishes have been done, the living room vaccuumed and the kitchen straightened up, I'll be having a cup of tea, watching Bones and working on a scarf for my daughter. It's got dropped stitches and a few mistakes. It's also got so much love in it, the mistakes just don't matter.Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281155564147699082.post-23326773415802285772008-11-11T08:16:00.003-05:002008-11-11T08:26:00.937-05:00My Craft Fair Booth<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEWuPaX-8PQJBrNd6Do91Y0rST9yhnh62zMlamtEzouMl226F21r68v_S2bB5zjo_DPki6_Qlt14wm3RHrt5VkBejLR5U5ilMZ_sYNUc8OhGju_CDRbHA5HUGd_tollhRMMRo9bK9kfAA/s1600-h/me+in+my+booth.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEWuPaX-8PQJBrNd6Do91Y0rST9yhnh62zMlamtEzouMl226F21r68v_S2bB5zjo_DPki6_Qlt14wm3RHrt5VkBejLR5U5ilMZ_sYNUc8OhGju_CDRbHA5HUGd_tollhRMMRo9bK9kfAA/s200/me+in+my+booth.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5267390544298046818" /></a><br />This year, I set up alone. This year, I had different items than I usually have. This year, I used the entire 3 hours getting set up. The walls went up in 15 minutes. Then came the rest of it. I moved things, I put up a table, took down a table, put the table in, took it back out. Thought I was doing the Hokey Pokey. I even turned around a few times out of frustration.<br /><br />My trash picked rack worked well for the clothing. I realized the supports we use for the walls make great display racks, and that clothespins are excellent clips. They even held things on the wooden crates.Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281155564147699082.post-78070556201099510532008-11-09T12:43:00.003-05:002008-11-09T13:02:13.052-05:00Craft Fair ObservationsI did a craft fair yesterday. It was a lot of work and I got up way too early, but it was fun. The people watching is always entertaining. I have a few observations to share.<br /><br />1. If you are over the age of 8 years old and choose to wear Crocs out in public, please opt to leave the ones with the little decorations at home. <br /><br />2. Backpacks are a great idea! You are able to carry your purchases and leave your hands free. However, remember that your back sticks out a lot further than normal. My booth walls do not have updated vehicle technology and will not beep to alert you that your backpack is too close. My booth is not a permanant structure and can be knocked down.<br /><br />3. I understand setting can be stressful and annoying. I know many of us stay up waaaay too late the night before working on items (funny, for me, those items NEVER are the ones that sell) and get up very early to set up for the show. However, if I'm by myself and putting up fabric on the outside of my booth (I use thumbtacks and timed myself-under 7 minutes for all 3 sides) and I'm in your space, please don't whack me with your table and mutter under your breath. Offer to help or just keep quiet. I have the same amount of time that you have and I'm going as fast as I can. But, at the same time, don't leave all of YOUR boxes, etc. sprawled in the aisle all the way across so that I have to go all the way around to get my set up pieces in.<br /><br />4. I totally understand making the rounds and looking at every booth and table before selecting items to purchase. Coming back and purchasing items from me is great. Telling me that my craftsmanship is amazing and my items are of a much better quality than what you've seen in other booths is wonderful. Dragging your friend back to purchase my items, saying, no really, you have to see what this woman has...the quality is top notch....is priceless.<br /><br />I also met some other etsy sellers, however, that will be a feature for another day. I have pictures but have to unpack my camera first! Stay tuned.Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281155564147699082.post-66456530092885975572008-10-29T10:03:00.002-04:002008-10-29T10:08:11.307-04:00Fall is in the air<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjneGUm2R3t7ZMfIcAV8WQL_Tw-KJO1bTEXUptY5SQuV-e3PoR2wwvtfZlPlTxyGRPWbdzN1_w6Pl-4ZOYt2S4Mr0U8XcpbY5bvq7h9nvdTdwXd88-gEQFDYYPvxBIqk7MvblqrC7C-Dq4/s1600-h/Sarah+jackolantern.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjneGUm2R3t7ZMfIcAV8WQL_Tw-KJO1bTEXUptY5SQuV-e3PoR2wwvtfZlPlTxyGRPWbdzN1_w6Pl-4ZOYt2S4Mr0U8XcpbY5bvq7h9nvdTdwXd88-gEQFDYYPvxBIqk7MvblqrC7C-Dq4/s200/Sarah+jackolantern.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5262577271865761090" /></a><br />It's fall. The lawn is covered with leaves. We carved our pumpkin last night. In honor of Sarah's "gone tooth" I made our jack-o-lantern's smile mimic hers, with a gone tooth also.<br /><br />On the etsy side of things, I had 2 sales yesterday! I sold the first pair of slocks I had listed and a fleece watch cap. I guess everyone else is feeling the nip in the air.<br /><br />And, it's craft fair season. I've been sewing like a mad fool to get inventory built up for the Memorial High School Booster Club craft fair on November 8th. I have to get up very early to set up (I much prefer evening set up) but since this one is about 1/4 mile from the house, it's not so bad.<br /><br />Off to the sewing machine.<br /><br />Happy Fall!Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281155564147699082.post-19476553184898475122008-10-28T09:30:00.004-04:002008-10-28T09:40:39.412-04:00Life Thoughts..Random Events or Master Plan?It's a gray, damp, chilly fall day. Good for staying in bed, curling up on the couch with a good book and a cat. Not in this house! I had my daughter's first parent teacher conference for kindergarten. Some of you may know that the whole kid thing was a foreign concept to me until I had my own. I was a little apprehensive walking in-if there was something lacking in my daughter's school performance, of course I was going to look to myself as the cause.<br /><br />I sat down and the teacher told me my daughter was intelligent, incredibly creative, very willing to learn, did her work very quickly and tended to wander..so I asked what I needed to be doing to help her in school. Imagine my suprise (and pleasure) when the teacher said, do not change a thing. You are doing an amazing job enriching her in things outside of school. You are keeping her creative spirit alive. <br /><br />Then, I come home and see that I have had a comment on my blog about George, my "helper" from a woman who used to work at the animal shelter where he and Gracie came from. Yes, I still keep in touch 2 years later. The funny thing? I've never met this woman. We talked on the phone a few times. She and I have a connection. Gracie. She and I both saw Gracie for what she truly is, a very shy, timid yet incredibly loving and friendly cat. I couldn't leave her at the shelter, even though she didn't want to be touched and stayed in the back of the cage. Even though this woman has moved to the other side of the country, we will keep in touch through something as seemingling mundane as a black long haired cat picked off the street.<br /><br />So, was it fate or was it the Master Plan that me, a somewhat disorganized, creative person had 2 creative, inquisitive children? Was it fate or was it the Master Plan that I walked into the Animal Shelter that day, 2 years ago, and the cat room we were supposed to go in was being cleaned, so we went into the smaller room? Either way, I have been incredibly blessed with 2 amazing children, the friendship of a woman 200 miles away and the love of a stocky little black cat.Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281155564147699082.post-41986935016227949262008-10-25T09:15:00.004-04:002008-10-25T09:24:37.926-04:00Photographs are So Important<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOhJEIfFiFzNgkwnh2fZyxVYQ5MC9AZW8k7APnatPTa3-JN9laC5YZcbK3k71Dv8ePGA1IKr0zyAvqMvhBfcOiM88q6gChOTYhK5KxfGCJ398V5h7fIjyGN1Ttq8xIOtQF1Veiwy4wF4o/s1600-h/smoosh+hat+loden+tilt.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 194px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOhJEIfFiFzNgkwnh2fZyxVYQ5MC9AZW8k7APnatPTa3-JN9laC5YZcbK3k71Dv8ePGA1IKr0zyAvqMvhBfcOiM88q6gChOTYhK5KxfGCJ398V5h7fIjyGN1Ttq8xIOtQF1Veiwy4wF4o/s200/smoosh+hat+loden+tilt.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5261081702451036386" /></a><br />When listing items on etsy, the potential buyer cannot pick up the item, look at it from all sides. Their only visual is the photographs. I think the images used to represent an item are actually more important than the actual item. The most carefully created item with impeccable attention to detail will never show these qualities to anyone if the picture is mediocre.<br /><br />I suffer from Mediocre at Best Photographic Syndrome. I am working very hard at overcoming this affliction. However, I don't have a super fancy camera or a great location or an elaborate light box set up. I also don't always have the luxury of photographing items outside in optimum light. I use what I can find, wherever I happen to be. Some of my shots are pretty darn good, but they were taken outside, or at a location I just happened to be at...in short, not something I can use on a consistent basis.<br /><br />So, what now? Getting creative is the key. I took pictures of my new smoosh hat inside, since when I had a few minutes it was 10:30 at night. Using 2 pieces of foamboard for the background, I got on the floor and moved this way and that way to show the hat but not the worn upholstery on the recliner that the foam board was leaning up against. I also wanted to avoid showing the shelf of coloring books and crayons next to the chair. As I was rolling around on the floor, I accidentally snapped a picture of the hat. It wasn't straight. It was tilted. It was pretty arty/creative looking. It was click worthy to me. It became the first photograph of my new hat.Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281155564147699082.post-79948562352153371622008-10-24T17:58:00.003-04:002008-10-24T18:04:12.824-04:00Falling Leaves<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNqc8TfqCkiRn8O1gT90nNEfnVfyTQYHGZ-YynqeetkoDYK7AwajwgoYpdv2ielcO4nqCENZfpHxJzhJuamGisYs1CnbTVvm0x1UlD001WTrN7Obbct-oCuOvPMriHKGDOTy-Ho1QkT7U/s1600-h/leaf+kids.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNqc8TfqCkiRn8O1gT90nNEfnVfyTQYHGZ-YynqeetkoDYK7AwajwgoYpdv2ielcO4nqCENZfpHxJzhJuamGisYs1CnbTVvm0x1UlD001WTrN7Obbct-oCuOvPMriHKGDOTy-Ho1QkT7U/s200/leaf+kids.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260844457619191522" /></a><br />The leaves have changed color and are now falling gently to the ground. My children have been waiting for this. They dug out their kid sized rakes and look out the window every morning. "Mummy, can we rake yet?" has been a familiar refrain in our house. <br /><br />Stupid me. Here I thought the kids really were into helping with yard work. Ah, no. We go outside yesterday, with rakes in hand. Sarah runs around, drops her rake on my foot and says, I'm going on the swingset. Let me know when you've gotten a pile of leaves big enough for me to jump in.Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281155564147699082.post-65539304731132366562008-10-23T19:51:00.003-04:002008-10-23T19:59:40.340-04:00FriendsI consider myself to be somewhat of a hermit...I am very outgoing and social when I want to be, but when I'm home, I don't like to be bothered. I'm not one for calling friends to get together to do this or that, if there is something I want to do, I will go and do it by myself and have a great time. I even say I really don't have a lot of friends.<br /><br />That changed the other night. I was on Facebook and sleep deprived (always entertaining) and making silly, inane comments on people's walls. Some of these people are fellow etsy sellers I've never ever met. Some were passing acquaintances, some were friends, but most of them I have not seen in at least a year or more. However, we were all silly and having a good time and laughing at the same things. It made me realize what friends really are. They aren't the people who live nearby, the ones you see in your day to day life. They don't need to be called or seen face to face. They are the ones that you may not see for years and years and years, or, in the case of my etsy friends, people I have never met. But, they are there when you need them, they appreciate your unique qualities and most of all, have fun and lots of laughs when you get together, whether in real life or on line. <br /><br />I didn't realize it, but I have lots and lots and lots of friends, and even more importantly, I realized I am a friend to lots and lots and lots of other people.<br /><br />So, to my friends...whether near or far, on line or in real life...thank you.Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281155564147699082.post-53094199676355468202008-10-21T22:57:00.006-04:002008-10-22T10:03:24.915-04:00No Wonder it Takes Me Forever to Accomplish Things<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyufikzzrzJdLZRtKbZBl1Iv-QsGsvm0l5Dyp0XYqEvpTl38xK6ZEdV2UHcmoiogHOOJmeJNJFnlnlwy6GHDF2zNz0Q7ccA8SSvwkR1xc1_FtGyoCtICwV8Xw8rDZqQgsRK5BBt63iOs8/s1600-h/watermelon+bq+George.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyufikzzrzJdLZRtKbZBl1Iv-QsGsvm0l5Dyp0XYqEvpTl38xK6ZEdV2UHcmoiogHOOJmeJNJFnlnlwy6GHDF2zNz0Q7ccA8SSvwkR1xc1_FtGyoCtICwV8Xw8rDZqQgsRK5BBt63iOs8/s200/watermelon+bq+George.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259813393863495714" /></a><br />So, I've made some new items. In order to list them, they need to be photographed. Pretty self explanatory. Not a HUGE amount of time involved.....but, the bulb was broken on my "location" lamp, there was just a little bit of glass left, my husband was actually home, so I sent him off in search of the appropriate tools to remove the remains of the old bulb. I replaced the bulb, set up my white box and prepared to take some photographs. <br /><br />All of a sudden, there was more than I anticipated in the shot. I removed my helper and he came back. Again. And again. And again. Finally, I said what the heck and shot the picture with him in it. Once I stopped asking him to leave, it was no longer a game and he went off to wreak havoc elsewhere.Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281155564147699082.post-16300387926486527942008-10-21T22:44:00.007-04:002008-10-23T00:38:10.452-04:00Better than Winning a Prize<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgO0YdzCSJAdg7A2eX-_o5VkZcEx2dvbxE4rXrK7RlZmRGQeiAnUhSLhwKfJpH9AXOZQwc23GItDw07R7eihBhbLsuCZiKRclqC9mXBc-f23qW4bn32w15BbYIzVdgM0CVQhLenP3-NeI/s1600-h/pink1-4.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgO0YdzCSJAdg7A2eX-_o5VkZcEx2dvbxE4rXrK7RlZmRGQeiAnUhSLhwKfJpH9AXOZQwc23GItDw07R7eihBhbLsuCZiKRclqC9mXBc-f23qW4bn32w15BbYIzVdgM0CVQhLenP3-NeI/s200/pink1-4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259812551247938034" /></a><br />My friend pinkquartzminerals.etsy.com is having a GREAT raffle in her shop. No, I didn't win the prize....she asked me if I would provide a beer quilt as a runner up prize. How totally cool is that? I was very honored! I always feel really good when someone purchases one of my items, but to have been asked to provide an item for her raffle was wonderful.<br /><br />Of course, if you are interested in mineral makeup, her product is THE ONLY way to go. I have very dry, sensitive skin and was told by everyone mineral makeup would accentuate my fine wrinkles. Yeah, maybe, but not pinkquartzminerals makeup. After sending some close up pictures of my face, I received samples of the products that would be best for my skin tone. Not only did I receive detailed directions, I also was able to ask many questions-and got answers very quickly.<br /><br />Interested in trying mineral makeup? Check out pinkquartzminerals.etsy.com. You may win $200 in free makeup, you may win a beer quilt....but you will DEFINITLELY win smoother, healthier skin and a look that doesn't scream I'M WEARING MAKEUP.Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281155564147699082.post-86917434799968634052008-10-21T16:14:00.001-04:002008-10-21T16:17:18.681-04:00Okay, I've HAD it!I hate laundry. It's a never ending chore, you lug it to the washer, sort it, wash it, dry it, fold it, put it away....and it's NEVER done. Ever. <br /><br />so, I'm proposing National Nudity. Now, I know it could get a little chilly around here in the winter, so yeah, clothing would be necessary. But, on those temperate days, going au naturel would really make the laundry problem so much easier to deal with! And, think of all the time you'd save in the morning by not having to waste time staring at your closet!<br /><br />Anyone else with me on this?Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281155564147699082.post-71415587070607160532008-10-20T17:31:00.003-04:002008-10-20T17:40:00.411-04:00Manic Monday!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiahLSGxRpiomRIKcOdtl4QNptig1rYE41WoViKCobaODKCmw7LnpDruY5nWA0ItFMYle5DpM429B5Y9KfLcNB5BjhqesNaG5YTwkihdBIIjRC9Lt5A0V8UyrcG-wK8VTJAMa3wruDE-Yk/s1600-h/red+black+socks+star.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiahLSGxRpiomRIKcOdtl4QNptig1rYE41WoViKCobaODKCmw7LnpDruY5nWA0ItFMYle5DpM429B5Y9KfLcNB5BjhqesNaG5YTwkihdBIIjRC9Lt5A0V8UyrcG-wK8VTJAMa3wruDE-Yk/s200/red+black+socks+star.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5259353586715800530" /></a><br />So, I blogged twice on Saturday, so I took yesterday off! We went to put the Star away, the one I sail is already tucked away for the winter, the one Michael sails needed to be put away. I realized that a sailboat is not just for sailing..it's a GREAT prop for new product pictures.<br /><br />This morning, I held a sign for a candidate at a predebate rally. It was chilly, breezy and I was in the shade. Without my mittens. They were on the kitchen counter. My fingers have finally warmed up.<br /><br />I realized a few things. When you are standing with people holding signs of the opposing candidate, it's obvious we aren't all going to agree on politics, so don't bring it up. I had fun chatting and playing word games with everyone.<br /><br />I also saw someone start grilling the supporters about their candidate. Um.....not cool. The candidates are debating, not the supporters. To me, it was tacky, crass and totally not necessary.<br /><br />Unofficial poll results.....equal amounts of Democrats and Republicans drink tea. Who makes the best tea for drive-thru venues? It was a landslide. Dunkin Donuts. Absolutely NO coffee taste in the tea.Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3281155564147699082.post-51494009390448546502008-10-18T19:14:00.002-04:002008-10-18T20:14:20.184-04:00The Potluck BrowniesIt's 3:30, we are going to 4:00 Mass, they are blessing the Catechists. I'm teaching Little Lambs this year....it's the little kids that go downstairs for age appropriate readings and activities during the readings, gospel and homily. I figure my kids are holy terrors, so I'd be a teacher and have to deal with them myself. <br /><br />Anyway, I am sewing, Michael comes home and says, what happened to the brownies....I come flying down the stairs and see that my darling daughter, who was angry that I wouldn't let her eat the brownies...poked holes in them with a wooden spoon, as they were cooling. There was no time to do anything about it, so I packaged them up and took them. Holey brownies or holy brownies...they were going to a church function, after all.<br /><br />Everyone laughed about them, said they were delicious and they were all eaten. She was all smiles..however, I told her if she did it again she was in HUGE trouble.Michelehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02980258739190734784noreply@blogger.com3