Sew Simply Sweet

Fall 2010

2010-10-22T21:17:00.004-04:00

HELLO!~

(This tree and park have been a little slice of peace amidst all of the chaos I have been experiencing)

Well as always there seems to be something keeping me away from blogging. This time it is our move across several states. Our move wasn't planned but Mr. Papitag got a great job that was too good to pass up, especially given these economic times of our nation. Looks like we will be heading to the nations capitol folks! Let me tell you this entire process has been nothing but a headache but I am FINALLY starting to realize that this will be really good for our family!

(My two munchkins...they are growing so fast)!
In between all of the fuss Ms. Pea turned 25 weeks and Gizzy turned 3 years old. Phew, never a dull moment over here! Somehow in the midst of packing, taking care of an almost 6 month old, walking the dog, keeping sane and sleeping (somewhat) I have managed to spark my craftiness again. I buckled down and purchased a brand new baby (Brother SQ9000) and I am absolutely in love! She sure beats my garage sale find my mom bought me for 25 bucks that was over 20 years old. Don't get me wrong my old brother is still kicking and I do plan on still using her as a back- up machine but the new brothers sure do make sewing a heck of a lot simpler.

I don't know how often I will be able to blog since we will be transitioning to our new place but I hope its better than what I was doing before =)

Hugs!

Low Key Weekend

2010-08-14T18:27:00.007-04:00

(Miss Pea and I)

Since I have been out of work and have primarily been at home caring for "Pea" (her nickname) my weekends have been low key and my weekdays have been everything but scheduled. We had planned to get a bunch of stuff done around the house since we might be making a sudden move here in the near future (will talk about later), but with a fussy 15 week old it doesn't appear that anything on the "list" will get done this weekend. We did manage to start Pea on baby cereal mixed with breast milk, yea I can hear some of you saying that she is too young, but you have to seriously know my baby to understand why she is already eating cereal...I am telling you, she is not the typical 15 week old. I realize that every parent thinks their child is advanced but seriously this girl is not the typical drooling, dazed staring 3 month old, she is ahead of her time....anyhow she loves the cereal and seems to be adjusting to it quite well.

I did manage to escape a couple weekends ago ( to a bachelorette party) which happened to be my first time leaving my baby for an extended period of time. I knew Mr. papitag could handle it though, I just made sure that I had enough milk pumped and all the other necessities on hand in order for him to have a smooth time with her.

(The Barchelorette party group)

The party was a success and it was great to see my pal Caroline and the rest of the ladies from the track club...I haven't seen them in months (almost 10 to be exact) since club nationals. I had such a great time but was missing little Pea so I sped home from Boston back to might bright eyed baby girl who refused to go to sleep for her dad (lol)...she can't get away from mommies boobies for bed time ( she loves to be breastfed to sleep).

Well, tomorrow is the usual, cutting out coupons from the Sunday paper, catching up on some blogs I love to read...especially (moneysavingmom.com) for all the great upcoming sales and freebies out there.... Mr. Papitag doesn't call me couponlady for nothing =) Possibly going to the park and the rest is just random. Sewing and all craftiness is on hold until we get things figured out on the move !!!

Keep it crafty!

Its been 4 months

2010-08-03T00:19:00.002-04:00

Its been 4 months and so much has changed in my life since I last posted. I cannot wait to share with you the journey that my life has taken in such a short amount of time. One of the biggest changes is the birth of our wonderful daughter!!!!

blogging woes

2010-03-29T17:30:00.003-04:00

Blogging hasn't gone as intended but that is life isn't it! With the soon to be birth of our first child, blogging just hasn't seemed that important lately but I did want to update a bit before I went into labor and life as I have known it doesn't exist anymore. As you can see from the pic below I have been growing and growing and so has our little one. I am happy to say we both are doing well and are healthy as far as we know.

(Me and my belly above at 35 weeks pregnant)

Mr. Papitag and I have been steadily finishing up projects here and there around the house. Our list seems endless and ever growing. I am happy to say that this past weekend our washer and dryer was delivered so no more lugging clothes back and forth to the laundry mat! YES! I never thought I would be so excited to wash clothes....but it brings such joy to actually have things clean when I need them without having to hop into the car to wash them =)

Our projects that we have finished lately: Purchasing a new washer & Dryer, having the washer and dryer installed, painting the dinning room and built in hutches, taking apart our full sized bed and upgrading to a king size bed, building our king size platform bed from scratch, building matching night stands, taking down wall paper, organizing our guest room for family when they come visit, the list goes on and on and on!

(Mr. Papitag and I taking apart our Ikea full-size bed to start the construction on our King Size bed...more pics to come)

well, this is just a bit of insight on what I have been up to. I hope to update more frequently but seeing that I am 35 weeks already the likelihood of it isn't too bright....

Stay Crafty... for me too!

Super Bowl Sunday

2010-02-07T19:59:00.005-05:00

HELLO!!!
I am so excited to share that I finally went ahead and purchased a new camera, and yup I went with the Kodak Z915 and I absolutely Love it. I bought it on Friday and have been obsessed with snapping pictures of everything =) I soooo missed being able to capture things via pics. Well its super bowl time and I don't think I am going to make it to the end. I am extremely tired from working upstairs in our house all day. We finally have the upstairs carpeted and its exciting to be able to actually use our "entire" house! Well my eyes are getting heavy and I need to rest for the baby! hugs!

Oh if you have time check out this cute tutorial I found online for some simple lined curtains...it beats paying hefty store prices for something you can make on our own! http://modernquiltlove.wordpress.com/2009/05/16/simple-lined-curtains/

Broken Promises

2010-02-04T22:20:00.004-05:00

(couple weeks old pic of the belly)
So, its finally February and my January went by way too fast. I haven't posted in ages because my camera bit the dust after all the abuse of dropping it I put it through. Due to not having a camera, there aren't any new pics (I feel lost without my camera)!!! I did find the camera that I do plan on getting though (the Kodak Z915) not an SLR camera but an upgrade for me and not too expensive at all. I hope to purchase it sometime in the near future. Well, like I was saying January went by so fast and I swear I keep growing as the days speed by. We have been under a lot of stress at home with remodeling and trying to slowly put ourselves on some form of a schedule. The baby will be here in 3 months and our house is still in shambles. We are having the carpet installed upstairs this weekend so we can finally start to utilize our full house after 6 months of living here....YES! well...I hope to keep updating you on whats been going on in my world.

Smiles...oh and stay crafty because I haven't been crafting too much due to my lack of energy lately!

Hugs~

Stressed

2010-01-11T17:56:00.003-05:00

Life always has a way of taking funny turns this way and that. Lately it seems like that good old money tree has not been in our favor as a family. We had the recent vet bills with Gizzy on New Years eve, now it seems like that may have just kicked in the new Year for us! Mr. Papitags car is about to shit the bed. We have no one to turn to and no one that is close that can help us out with a new car! ERRRR! What next? There is just no way that we can get by with just one car with me working locally and Mr. Papitag working out of town unless I started to use the bus. The bus wouldn't be so bad if I wasn't 6 months pregnant! I don't know what we are going to do! We also have a crap load of housing construction that needs to be completed before the baby gets here which also requires money....and then there is of course the daily or monthly expenses of just "living." Speaking of just living...how could I forget to mention that Friday I locked my keys in my car and had to shell out $70 bucks to update me and Mr. Papitags AAA membership. RRRRRRRRRRR! I have a goal for 2010 to stay positive so I am going to try to do just that even in the face of all of these financial woes..... =(
I hate for this post to be a downer but I thought I would share what has been happening in my world. I haven't had time to post anything on etsy or even break out much of my craft supplies. I am in need of some therapeutic recreation though so I think I will crack out the whip and get to crafting again...even if it is just for our new addition to come.

(above me at an antique shop in Georgia)

2010 Census Categories

2010-01-06T20:50:00.002-05:00

Have you seen or heard about the 2010 census categories? No, well if not you should be totally T'd off about them, especially if you are a person of color. Can you believe "they" who in the heck knows who "they" really are have the nerve to ask whether you are: black, African American or Negro. Come on now..."Negro." Are we seriously living in the 1920's! Who's stupid idea was it to add this category. I am truly disappointed in the US Government for allowing this! RRRRRRRRRRR~! I had to vent this one out!

2010-01-05T18:58:00.005-05:00

Hello,

Somehow I failed to mention that we spent a huge chunk of our New Years Eve in the Pet ER! Gizzy was having something like a coughing attack almost like something was lodged in his throat. After a few minutes pacing hoping that what ever it was would go away or he would cough up what was lodged in his throat if anything....it didn't stop so to the Vet ER we were headed.

Gizzy at the Vet Er on New Years Eve

Gizzy and Mr. Papitag (above) falling asleep in the exam room

(Me looking like a goonie and super busted after crying hoping that my baby was ok).

So after about 3 hours at the emergency vet, Gizzy was given a clean bill of health. $300 bucks later the vet that was on call told us that the little guy probably had an allergic reaction to something or either he is developing asthma....what the hell....dogs can get asthma! Ok, so I was definitely educated and told not to use any harsh chemicals in the house (which we don't besides disinfectant) and no burning of candles or anything aeromatic. I swear this little guy is going to be the ruins of me (lol). I am just thrilled to pieces that we decided to get the VPI pet insurance now I can only cross my fingers that they will reimburse us some of what we paid. In the long run I would do it all again as long as my little guy is OK.....We love you Gizzy!

On another note I am sure you have heard the saying that it takes a village to raise a child. Well, that saying is so true...I have been completely astonished how many people are lending us a hand with clothing, furniture, etc for our baby on the way. We aren't they type of materialistic people who care about whether something is a hand me down as long as it is in good shape and condition and is safe!!! Yah...this means less money out of our pockets and less things that will go to waste by others.

(Cute knitted slipers the neighbor made for me for the hospital)
(A cute little electric cooker that my Mommy sent to us)

(The wonderful changing table and dresser that my Mom sent to us (above in the box)

(new and hand me down clothes from my Mom and Brother...thank you Turtle)

There will be more boxes and stuff to come...yeah! Well, it is time to go and eat dinner. I am working on a few craft projects that I will have to post soon.

Hugs!

Happy start to the New Year

2010-01-03T00:16:00.003-05:00

Hello!!!
So, I decided to get to my goal list for 2010 and started things off right by deep cleaning our freezer and fridge. I am happy that it is all spiffy clean and organized now and I can find things that I need. We typically have a tendency of just putting stuff in there without any rhyme or rhythm, but now things are organized and I plan to keep it that way! The next on the list will be to tackle the pantry, which is going to be a challenge. I hate throwing away good food so this year I promised myself that we would try to eat what we have on hand instead of buying buying buying unnecessary items or items just because they are on sale.

(Above: our clean fridge)

For Lunch today Mr. Papitag and I got to use one of our Christmas pressies (gift card to Cheesecake Factory). Lunch was so scrumptious and there were even left overs that we both took home (along with a slice of cheesecake each) for dinner later. Wow, the portion sizes even for lunch were enormous! As a matter of fact I think it is time for me to go and eat some more of my snickers cheesecake right now. Other than that today was a low key day...I did a bit of laundry and we finally took down the Christmas tree. We had plans to go to the dollar cinema (trying to save money) to see paranormal activity since most of the block busters here went out of business and it is apparently hard to rent the movie at the "redboxes," but the plans fell though and I took a nap instead. Maybe tomorrow I might be a little bit more productive and get a few more things accomplished. Until then...enjoy your night...I am going to get my cheesecake! Nummm Yummy!

Nite Nite!

Goodbye 2009!!!

2009-12-31T22:10:00.009-05:00

Well, it is time to say goodbye to 2009 and all the joys and tears it has brought. Goodbye Christmas tree which to me symbolizes the end of the year.....

(Family Tree with all the pressies)
I had a great Christmas....as usual Mr. Papitag, Gizzy and I went to visit my Mom and Brother down south! Too bad we didn't have a bundle of that warm southern weather this year....it was actually pretty chilly but it surely beat New England weather that is for sure. Gizzy did great on the plane ride to and from thanks in part to the most wonderful stewardesses we could ask for that let us cater to his cries and nervousness by letting us hold him the majority of the flight. As always there was a bit of drama around the holidays.... but who doesn't have drama with family? It was a blessing to get to spend my nephews (turtle) first Christmas with him:

(Turtle...our little Christmas Elf)
Gizzy enjoyed spending time with the family too....he especially loved hanging out with his cousin Turtle:

(Gizzy couldn't stop himself from trying to steal Turtles bottle, as you can see Turtle wasn't too thrilled...but Gizzy sure was happy)

(Gizzy knocked out from all the excitement)

(Gizzy enjoying warmer weather and also a fenced in yard)
(The two peas in a pod: Gizzy and Turtle playing with one another)
We had family card night, IHOP breakfast, drinks galore (not me of course) oh and not to forget one of the most unusaual items....I got to eat fried pickles....boy what a trip!

(Mmm...fried pickles)

(Mommy and Turtle eating Christmas Eve cookies)

(The family on our last day down south....back to new England we go)
(IHOP breakfast: the three amigos)
(Me opening my pressies...)
(Daddy (My brother) and Turtle)
(The family at Card night)
********************************************************************
Goals for 2010 (no particular order):

- Birth of our first child
- Save more money
-Buy less unnecessary items
-loose the baby weight after her arrival
- visit family and friends more
- live more green and Eco friendly
- cook more at home...

- find a career I absolutely love
on and on.... the list continues...

well, I hope you have a wonderful start to 2010....HAPPY NEW YEAR!

(Me.... ready for a new year...Happy 2010)

Happy Snow Day

2009-12-20T11:41:00.003-05:00

We woke up to about 10" of snow this morning. It was so beautiful....we just couldn't help ourselves and had to go play in it. Needless to say Gizzy didn't last that long even bundled up with two sweaters and his winter coat. I kind-of....key word is kind-of felt bad for Mr. Paitag who had to shovel our driveway and walkway this morning...he seemed to like it though. He actually ended up making a few bucks here and there helping our elderly neighbors even though he wasn't looking for any monetary gain out of it...just being a good neighbor...but they kept insisting (lol). Well I hope it is warm where ever you are and if you happen to be in this fluffy white stuff you are nice and bundled warm!

Cheers!

Happy Saturday

2009-12-12T19:05:00.002-05:00

What are you up to today? Me, just chillin. Got up this morning and cooked a huge breakfast and have been chillin most of the day. I have finally finished cutting out a couple of patterns and fabric to put together Gizzy a new winter wardrobe....I can't wait to see how it will turn out. The little guy seems to be busting out of the seams of all of his winter clothing from last year. I will have to post the pictures tomorrow of the patterns that I am making. Well, there really isn't much to post today...just a relaxing Saturday at home with my family. Hope you are enjoying your loved ones today!
Stay Crafty!!!

First New England Snow Day

2009-12-05T22:31:00.003-05:00

Tonight we got our first glimpse of the snow to come in the near future. It is so pretty and yet so cold outside. I can completely forget about walking Gizzy outside in this weather....out comes the puppy pads, now I wish I had stocked up on them when they were on sale for $10 bucks! Speaking of Sales, last night I scored a cute purple bubble jacket (which can be seen in the pic above) at Walmart for only $7 bucks! How exciting...a coat for $7 bucks, granted its not the most fashionable coat but I'm not trying to win any fashion awards...it does it job in keeping me warm. I made sure to get the coat 2 sizes bigger than I normally am so as I continue to grow during my pregnancy I won't have to worry about finding a winter coat to fit! I also managed to score 2 $10 dollar 100% wool sweaters at Old Navy! Yes, it seems like the sales keep rolling. Old Navy has been holding it down with the sales. I hit Old Navy up on black Friday and got a whole bunch of fleecy sweaters and sweats and long sleeve shirts! An entire bag of clothing for only $25 bucks, can't beat that with a stick. Before I move on I wanted to also mention that there was 30% off already reduced items at Old Navy so I couldn't resist buying a couple more large shirts (my maternity wear)! A great bargain buts a smile on my face! =)

well, we are going to chill, watch some football, I might even brush the lint off my sewing machine and get started on a couple of things here and there....ummm....well, a nap sounds a bit better.

until I am back in the swing of things....stay crafty!!!

Its a Girl!

2009-12-04T22:24:00.004-05:00

We are very proud to announce that we are having a Baby Girl! I am so excited. Gizzy will have a little sister and I will get to have the little girl that I have been dreaming about. I can't wait to lay my eyes on her. Finally the house will be even...two boys and two girls!

Nite Nite!

Happy Happ

2009-12-04T22:14:00.004-05:00

Well Hello everyone!

Today we have reached 19 weeks~! I am starting to feel the weight gain in my back lately. Last night was horrible...I was literally in tears from all the pain that was shooting up and down my back. The midwife said the pain was most likely from the baby resting on my sciatic nerve. After about a good 2 hours and shifting my weight from left to right the pain subsided and I was finally able to get some rest.

Just the thought of walking around is making my back ache. I couldn't even last 1 hour walking around the mall before my lower back started to ache. As you can see from the pic above I am starting to get the "sway back" posture from all of the baby weight gain. I hope it all disappears once the baby is born! Phew....now I am going to get some rest and continue with my insane cravings which i will have to comment on later. hehehehe!

hugs and kisses!!!

Happy Birthday to ME!

2009-11-25T15:47:00.005-05:00

Yeah today is my birthday! Next year it will fall on Thanks Giving. I couldn't be more excited to celebrate my birthday today. To start my birthday off, Mr. Papitag surprised me with flowers and a card at my office this morning (he completely tricked me and pretended like he was on his way to work this morning). He knows my favorite color is purple and they just happened to have a new line of seasonal multi-purple bouquet of purple Carnation's .....oh how I love them. I can't wait until they start to dry out a bit so I can preserve them and dry them out completely to put them in my "purple" office at work....they are so pretty. Tonight we are going to my favorite restaurant "Papparazi" (however you spell it) which you may notice I blogged about last year....I absolutely love this place, mostly for the yummy scrumptious cheesy Italian bread and dipping sauce that they have...mmmmmmmmmm I can smell it now. I will open up my gifts later on tonight. Its funny how after you hit a certain age everyone including your parents forget how old you are....I have been having a great time telling everyone that I am all different ages....hehehehehe! Well, I just got finished with work and although it is my birthday I still have to complete things that are part of my normal routine which includes walking Gizzy....

So, if it happens to be your Birthday today...many joyful wishes to you!

Smooches!

Baby bump and Muscles

2009-11-21T21:19:00.004-05:00

So I have been trying to see the difference in my body that this pregnancy is changing so I took some pictures of me at 4 months pregnant. I was shocked by the changes in my thighs and hip areas but I completely anticipated the belly bump to grow and grow and grow. Thank goodness my "baby potions" has continued to help my skin stay smooth and healthy around my belly and hips. I will have to share my "potion" at a later date...until then...I will continue to grow and I hope you will continue to stay crafty!

Baby Baby

2009-11-14T13:48:00.003-05:00

My Lovely Baby Bump!

Well, here it is. My ever growing belly (for now) at 4 months! We aren't sure what we are having yet, but we find out at the end of the month. The second trimester has been interesting...no one told me about the following:

the itchy skin, facial break-outs and the horrible dry hair. I guess I can't complain though because I haven't had any nausea (thank goodness)!!!

I will keep more pics coming as I keep growing (lol)

2009-11-08T19:06:00.001-05:00

Make a Smilebox greeting

Doggie Halloween

2009-10-26T09:11:00.003-04:00

Gizzy says Happy Halloween!

Well, I finally ended up locating my digital camera after ripping through numerous boxes which I didn't intend on opening until the house is a bit more settled...oh well it was better than having to shell out money for a new one. Gizzy had his annual "small breed" doggie Halloween party yesterday. He had a blast....and actually ended up winning "Most Spooky Costume!" His prize for winning was a bag of organic sweet potato doggie treats, a Frankenstein squeaky toy and a little squeaky ball (the ball he wasn't suppose to take home but the owner let him have it) that little thief (lol). We had such a great time watching our little guy play with his doggy and human friends and we also got to socialize with our doggie owners who also come to the play group (yes, we are all those crazy dog owners who do anything for their pets).....hahahahaha....

Anyhow... Gizzy wanted to wish you and your pets a Happy Halloween...this Saturday we (the humans of the family Mr. Papitag and I) are going to a Halloween Party...I am excited but Mr. Papitag could probably care two sh**s about dressing up and being silly! oh well, he will have fun...

Later!

Lost Camera!

2009-10-21T13:57:00.002-04:00

I have so much to post and no pics to show! Sucks right...! Somehow while moving into the house I misplaced my digital camera...so a). I am going to have to rip our messy house into pieces and make it even messier to find my camera or b). I am going to have to suck it up and shell out some dough on a cheapo one that will hold me over...I am not particularly excited about either option but I am missing blogging and missing my camera. Ok, I don't want to give away the secret but there is so much that has been going on in my life and I am itching to just blurt it all out at once..........Oh but I should wait...the pics along with the post are going to be so much better.

Ok, Later

Stay Crafty

October already

2009-10-01T10:00:00.003-04:00

"Feeling like I can't catch my Breath"

Wow, Time is surely flying by...I haven't been able to blog that much lately because of the continued home renovations. We are almost done so I should be back on track soon. Oh and did I mention that I have a craft show to prepare for in the midst of all of the crazy messy home stuff!

I think back to myself and wonder where in the world did the summer go. So many things have changed for me in such a short period of time: the birth of my nephew, track nationals, buying our first home, and some more surprises (can't disclose just yet). No wonder I feel like I can't catch my breath lately, so much has been happening all so fast. (memories of summer)
(Favorite summer meal: Fresh green salad with mushrooms, red onions, cucumbers, fresh garden tomatoes, and to top it off chicken and avocado chunks. YUMM!)

Goodbye sweet dandelions and yummy summer salads...hello hearty soups, comfy blankies, the crisp air of the fall and all of the Halloweenie goodness!

Until next time....

Sunday....

2009-09-13T19:11:00.002-04:00

Vamps, Blood, Love...Oh My!

The day has come...the season finale of True Blood..

I am so excited to watch the season finale of "True Blood" (sad). There will absolutely be no interruptions tonight during my show...lol...so I hope! Yes...oozing with excitement for 9:00 tonight~

Stay True!

Adventures of Sponge Bob

2009-09-07T21:59:00.005-04:00

Hello!!! (Throughout our renovations, I have been addicted to these cute little "Sponge Bob" ice creams that are sold at our Dollar Tree....since we seem to be in Dollar Tree for little things for the House I keep nabbing one of these little tasty treats)!

Well, as I assumed before our home renovations I have had minimal free time, so I haven't had the time or energy to turn on my computer to blog lately. We only have 2 weeks to go before we need to be out of our hole in the wall apartment.....can't wait! So far we have started to tile the floors, took down wood paneling in the family room, put up dry wall, skim coated almost all the walls that are finished and even started painting. Here are some updated pics of the house:

( Pic of the side of the house)
(The one room that was renovated before we moved in...doesn't look like it because it is a mess filled with clothes and this and that...we still need to change the wall color and put in a new vanity/sink to make our mark on it).
(The front entry way...another room finished.....which Mr. Papitag let me complete without any of his interventions. I tiled, painted & finished the walls all by myself....now we just need some art on the wall and a few coat hooks to top it off)
(Looking into the Dinning room from the family room...both rooms are still in the mid stage of renovations. As you can see we need to finish grouting and taking down some wood paneling, etc...)

OK, until next time....

Check out my favorite sites for some home design and DIY inspirations:

Design Sponge

http://www.apartmenttherapy.com

DIY Network

Flickr

Keep it Crafty!

Trying Times!!!

2009-08-26T09:00:00.005-04:00

Not Quite Home Sweet Home!!!

I have been away from crafting, blogging, working out, just about everything I love to do in my free time because.....We finally own our fist home!!! Yeah, the search is over. I posted a while back when we were in the midst of searching for our fist place....boy was it trying times. I am glad that it is finally over. We finally decided on a 1920's colonial home. Its cute but needs a lot ofwork. Thank you Mr. President for your wonderful incentive for new home buyers....

Me In the "Family room" doing some construction. Who ever invented wood paneling "sucks!"

Mr. Papitag in the master bedroom wrapping up the disgusting carpet that was in every inch of the house

The Family room before Demo..but after we ripped out the carpet, to our surprise the hardwood floors were in great conditition...they will be excellent after a nice sanding and a nice chesnut stain.

entrance & Living room before Demo but after we ripped up the hideous green carpeting...again nice hardwood floors.
The Dinning Room before demo but once again after we ripped up carpet and to our surprise there was horrible sticky lanolin tiles underneath the carpet....WHAT IN THE WORLD! LOL

As you can see, we have a long way to go and only 2.5 more weeks until we have to be out of our apartment. I will be sure to keep the pictures coming. Silly me, I forgot to take a pic of the outside of the house....

To be continued....

Happy Friday

2009-08-14T11:00:00.007-04:00

Hello,

Thank goodness today is Friday...it almost seems like I am wishing my days away to get to the weekend. I have been crafting a bunch lately and trying to increase my inventory for my annual craft show at Transcongretional Church here in town. Last year was my first craft show and I did great...overall I had the highest profit (exciting) glowing with glee just thinking about this year!!! Below are a couple of items that I have added to my etsy shop...I haven't made any for the craft show yet...

All Items can be found in my etsy shop at: http://www.dadootdoots.etsy.com/

The family has been doing a lot of stuff together lately even though Mr. Papitag doesn't get home until after 6:30 most nights. We have been taking loads of day trips to the parks and taking full advantage of the "free" things that our state has to offer. We are both addicted to physical activity so the natural parks have become a great past time of ours...and Gizzy has been loving chasing the Geese!

Hopefully this weekend I can convince Mr. Papitag to join me in my quest to recapturing my title of "thrift store queen." I will have to keep my fingers crossed because he typically lasts about a good 10 minutes in a thrift store and if you are like me 10 minutes just doesn't cut it when you are trying to find lovely treasures. I will be sure to bring my camera to try to capture all the great or not so great finds!!!

The Family

Until Next time!

Sunday Television

2009-08-02T22:06:00.005-04:00

TRUE BLOOD............

I am so addicted to this show....for all that don't watch it, its not to late for you...you can rent the episodes and catch up! Trust me you are missing out! AHHHH there is nothing better than a glass of red wine and a dose of True Blood Vamps....

Poor Suki...I can't wait to see what happens next, next weeks episode can't come soon enough...what is the deal with Godrick? Only time will tell....until next week!

Keep it True!!!

I thought we lived in the City??

2009-07-31T10:00:00.009-04:00

Hello...hope your Friday is going as great as mine

Well I thought I would share a couple of pics from earlier this summer. It was sometime in early July that Mr. Papitag yelled into the window from outside " Re...Re...come here you have to see this!" Apparently he was walking Gizzy and ran into this fellow right down the street:

Yup...it was a freaking turkey...walking in one of our neighbors yard! I was so quick to run and get my camera I didn't even care that I still had on my pj's, hadn't brushed my teeth yet and lets not mention what my hair was looking like. It was all in a days work of sacrificing looks for a great photograph...plus its not everyday that we see a wild turkey lurking in our neck of the woods...or shall I say "city." Hopefully none of my neighbors had their cameras taking a picture of my "wild" looking self (lol)! NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC...I am still waiting on that phone call (LOL) !!! No, but seriously I am =)

(gobble gobble)

I wonder if someone had him as a pet because he wasn't afraid of me getting too close to him. Mr. Papitag at this point kept yelling "Re, get away from him...he is going to attack you." I was just concerned with getting a good glimpse of him before he ran off into the empty lot down the street that makes it seem like we live in the boonies...that is another story though...I will save the hideous, nasty empty lot story for another day!

enjoy your Friday

Get out and do something Crafty...I sure will

A Day in the Park!

2009-07-30T09:01:00.009-04:00

Hello!!!

Blogging has been a stretch for me lately. I have had so much on my plate that the last thing I have considered doing is blogging. Now that my track season is over I have dedicated a heap of my time to my little boy (gizzy) and my Fiance (Mr. Papitag). Actual quality time like trips to the park and simply taking a walk together are scare when track is in full effect...Track season leaves very little time for a lot of thing...so I have really been enjoying the "down" time and doing things that I typically don't have the luxury of doing.

(Here we are at the park on the Great Giant Swan Paddle Boats)

Gizzy has been taking full advantage of having all of Mommies time. We even got to escape to the park just the two of us; I tend to give him a little more breathing room than Papitag to roam and be free, which ultimately ends up biting me in the butt because somehow he ends up off the leash or either in a not so good situation....like almost being eaten by the real life Swan and geese (lol)....no really it wasn't that funny when we got swarmed by a gang of ducks (lol) ....but I can look back and laugh now...he was seriously almost lunch meat!

(Gizzy on the boardwalk at the park)

(The dangerous Swans that almost ate Gizzy) LOL!

(Gizzy amping up his retaliation)

(The swan getting a little to close for comfort at this point circling us. Gizzy was barking like crazy)

(Gizzy wanting to attack or either play with the duck... don't think so buddy that water was iiky)!

The following week the entire family got to go on the paddle boats. We had so much fun. Gizzy was so fascinated with the water!!

(Me and Gizzy on the paddle boat)

(Mr Papitag and I on the paddle boats)

(The ultimate Geese fighter) lol!

(Cutsie little turtle on the lillipods at the park)

Until Next Time!!!

Stay Crafty!

Oregon Ducks!!!

2009-07-05T22:30:00.009-04:00

USA Track & Field Nationals, Oregon Ducks, Loads of Coffee & Adventures in the park

(Eugene, Oregon....Home of Track town USA)

I have been away for the past week competing at the USA Track and Field Nationals. All went well...I didn't do as good as I would have liked to...hence I am not on my way to Berlin gearing up to compete for the US at the World Championships. Nonetheless, I am glad to be home but the trip was an overall good one. We took loads of pics!

(I am still obsessed with photographing animals....National Geographic hasn't called yet, but I am hopeful the phone will ring one of these days! LOL... Eugene, OR is full of all sorts of ducks, birds, etc...they are so cute...and friendly)

(DUTCH Bros. Coffee, some of the yummiest coffee around! It is so amazing to me that there are all these little coffee shops in the middle of parking lots and open spaces with little drive up windows ready for you to place an order. Just a word of advice, don 't be a newbie like me and walk up to the drive-up window to place and order...chances are you might get hit by a car like I almost did. LOL)

(Organic Espresso coffee hut....this was a walk up or drive up one too...Yummy! They had cookies the size of your head...)

(Here I am feeding the geese. They were friendly and scary at the same time. They loved the chocolate caramel power bar I had...hopefully it wasn't too bad for them)

(Here I am walking up one of the Oregon Trails at a park...fun stuff)

(Me in my competition uniform after competing)
(I loved this huge art so I just had to mimic it)
(Being silly)
(The park where we ventured off to near the University of Oregon)
(Jumping for joy)

(The Track and stands)
(It was a bonus that there was a craft fair there. I didn't get to walk around that much because it isn'the brightest idea to walk around too much while you are trying to peek form competition...My coach did let me walk around for a good minute to take a couple of photos)
(Coach Ray/ the honey bunn)
(Me on the park bridge)(Goodbye to 2009 USA Nationals in Eugene, Oregon. Until 2011....)

Hope you enjoyed!

I had a blast!

Peace, stay Crafty

Nationial Geographic and Strawberry Picking

2009-06-17T08:31:00.008-04:00

TO BE A COUNTRY GIRL......

I have been super busy with work and competing (track) every weekend....it has left minimal time for play play play....but I have managed to sneak a little bit of fun in here and there. While visiting Georgia a while back I had a chance to visit my Uncle...who is more like my Grandfather (strange I know) I only say that because he is old enough to be so....I love my uncle who is slightly a "Fred Sanford" (LOL)....no seriously you should see the "junk" or for better the "treasures" he collects!

(My Uncle and I)

My Nephew "Baby Turtle" from my trip to Georgia ...he was so comfy in my arms

(I am waiting on that call from National Geographic)

A birds nest on my uncles property... he has a bit of land and a bunch of wild life running a muck. I Can't remember what type of bird this was, nonetheless it was fun playing national geographic trying to get the best pic of the eggs and nest.

(Birds Nest)
(The birds nest), I almost got attacked by the Mommy bird while taking this one...she wasn't too pleased with me getting near her babies but I left them unharmed and undisturbed. Thanks Mamma birdie for not poking my eye out or biting me!

This past weekend Ray and I visited Valatie, NY for a track meet and we stopped along the highway when we were finished at a organic farm that had strawberries, boysenberries, corn, apples and so much more. We only opted to pick the strawberries.....they were so tasty!!!

(Strawberry farm)
(me picking strawberries)

Ray was the best strawberry picker ever...and it was his first time. He had a really good eye for finding the most red luscious juiciest strawberries ever....and he was kind enough to let me eat most of them......Nummmm Yummy!

(This strawberry was so perfect)

(I could have shoved all these in my mouth)

(I wanted to take all the delicious morsels home but I knew I had to leave some for everyone else (LOL))

(Me grubbin on our way home...and nope, I didn't bother washing the strawberries...honestly the thought didn't cross my mind (they looked to yummy and they were saying "eat me")....I figured since it was an organic farm that there weren't any pesticides used...and a little dirt never hurt anyone...RIGHT?) LOL

Peace out!

Stay Crafty and get out and visit a farm! This City Girl Did!!!

The Princess and the LYON!

2009-06-04T22:40:00.008-04:00

Happy SPRING!

(Gizzy taking time to stop and smell the flowers)

I must admit that I have been a horrible blogger lately! I had planned on getting back on track with blogging consistently but honestly I haven't been crafting that much and could fill this entire blog with rants about whats been going on in my life but I figured no one would be interested in hearing all my strife (LOL). A couple of things that have been going on include: being outbid for (3)...yup 3 homes that we put bids on, healing my ankle appropriately which meant limited exercising (horrible for me), working like crazy almost every Saturday, and trying to find sometime for "me" in between it all. We have come to the conclusion that we are going to let nature take its course with the house hunting...my ankle is almost 98% better and no more working weekends. So this means more time for crafting and more time for blogging......

Here are a couple of Spring pics that I wanted to share with you:

(My new temporary hairstyle...)

(I still can't seem to resist picking these and making wishes)

Have a good one!!!

Its been a minute!

2009-05-13T09:55:00.005-04:00

Training, Home Shopping, Twisted Ankle

the list could go on....

But something brought me back to my blog.......

I hadn't realized how long it has been since I last blogged. So much has been going on that I haven't even had time to pretty much think straight. For one I am in the peak of my track season so everything that isn't track related pretty much comes secondary even eating! LOL. I twisted my ankle long jumping this past weekend so I have been pretty bummed....icing and doing all the necessary things to help it heal a bit faster. I do promise to get back on track with sewing and crafting. I forgot to mention that while I was away in GA visitingg family, I scored big time on a huge lot of crafty this and that from my uncle. He is basically like Fred Sanford so he was harboring all these craft supplies so I decided to take them off his hands for some use. Literally I have over 2000 vintage buttons and over 50 zippers and a crap load of everything else...even a pair of electronic Dritz scissors which I am so in love with. Life couldn't be better.

Oh and Ray and I are looking into buying our first home (the pic is of one of the homes that we really liked) so we have been busy with that as well. Enough excuses though...I will be back in full effect soon enough you just wait and see :)

(I don't have any pics to post but more will come real soon). What good are rechargeable batteries if you don't charge them for your digital camera....hahahahahaha

Stay Crafty!

Knick Knacks and this and that

2009-05-05T11:29:00.006-04:00

Knick Knack Patty Wack.....

I haven't posted in a while. I have been out of town visiting my family, thrifting through treasures, and sewing up a storm. I even managed to stitch my finger tip with my sewing machine (don't ask) lol. I guess you can say I get a lot of my love for nick knacks from my Mom. While I was visiting "home" me and my Mom got to do some vintage thrifting and antiquing. Here I am below trying on some antique glasses. They were so kooky... they didn't even have a nose bridge, but i guess back then they must have worked just fine!

(Me with the antique Glasses on)

(Here is the lot of the antique lens that were being sold for about $200...if only I had $200 bucks.... ohhhhhh I am salivating just thinking about the crafty things I could have done with those lenses. Oh well, it wasn't meant to be).

I have been super busy creating a stash of super cute baby gifts for my new nephew "turtle." The main project I have been working on has been this quilt....

I think it turned out really nice. It was my first time actually using multiple intricate fabric patterns and also different fabric materials. The yellow turtle fabric is a soft fleece and the printed turtle fabric and the solid colors surrounding it are all cotton. It was a fun challenge. I actually finished the entire project from start to finish in about 7 hours. I think I did Pretty good I might add. Boy let me tell you it was so unbelievably hard to find fabric with a turtle print on it. I was terrified that the contrasting fabrics and colors wouldn't go well together but all in all I am pretty pleased with the end result and my Mom and Brother were head over heals for the quilt....looks like I might be making more quilts in the near future.

I even inspired my mom to get a little crafty and make a couple of things for little "turtle."

(She created this onesie for our family photo for him to wear....it still swallowed his entire body. He is such a little pea.... 6 weeks at 6 lbs)

(My little angle fast asleep. Thank goodness! He kept me up all night) LOL!

Earth Day

2009-04-22T23:29:00.004-04:00

Happy Earth Day !!! Do your best to try to save our Planet! For tips, coupons, a free tote from WholeFoods and ideas on how you can become more environmentally friendly go here .

Oprah had a great show on green ideas and tips on how you can do your part at home to conserve energy.

We can all do a bit more to help Mother Earth Thrive!

Taco Chilli

2009-04-16T11:23:00.005-04:00

Recipe Thursday:

Taco Chilli

Taco Chilli is a hit at our house and it only takes 30 minutes or less to cook, its pretty healthy and very filling. There are many recipies online that you can find for taco chilli but this is our basic recipie

Serves: 3-4

Utensils needed: one medium - large skillet with a lid

cooking spoons (for stirring)

Basic Ingredients needed:

1 lb of ground meat (turkey, chicken, or beef) ~ we chose ground chicken
1 can of Kidney beans (whatever brand)
1 can of Corn (white or yellow)
1 can of tomato paste or tomato Sauce we only had tomato paste
Taco seasoning packet (your choice of brand)

Other optional ingredients:

chopped onion

chopped pepper

shredded cheese

sour cream

hot sauce

Cooking Steps:

Start off by browning your 1 lb of meat in a medium skillet

once your meat is browned and cooked thoroughly (usually about 5 - 8 minutes) drain any fat from the skillet (ground chicken doesn't hardly have any)
With the stove still on at a medium heat Add in your Taco Seasoning to the meat and follow the instructions on the packet (most taco seasoning packets will require you to add water for this step)

Once you have mixed your meat and taco seasoning together following the packets directions then you add in your tomato paste or tomato sauce

if using tomato paste you will need to add roughly 3 of the tomato paste cans full of water to the pot. If using tomato sauce do not add water

let the tomato paste/or tomato sauce and meat combination simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This is when you can add additional seasonings if you wish...we don't typically add anything because the taco seasoning packet is good enough

Now it is time to add your corn and beans (or whatever else you wish e.g. onions, peppers, etc)

Let the entire combination of your meat, tomato sauce, seasoning packet, corn, and beans cook on medium heat covered for 15 minutes stirring occasionally

Take the lid off taste (adjust taste with seasonings if needed)...then plate

Lastly, we top ours off with some tortilla chips, sour cream, hot sauce and a bit of shredded cheese (all optional)

viola~ you are done and you have a meal in 30 minutes!!!

Now Time to Eat!!!

Etsy

2009-04-15T10:09:00.002-04:00

Free Shipping in my etsy Shop to the United states!!!

Visit: Http://www.Dadootdoots.etsy.com

Fabric land

2009-04-15T09:50:00.006-04:00

New anklet, Fabric Shopping/Spring

My new anklet that I am in love with! The colors just scream out to me. Anytime I get down or out or need a quick pick-me up I just look down at the wonderful bold colors and for a second I feel better.

I have been so excited for the Spring season this year. Winter was incredibly long and hard to get through. I have managed to overcome my winter blues by indulging in the wonderful springy palates of colors! I have been obsessed with a lot of stripey prints and bold loud colors this spring. I spent my lunch at Walmart yesterday browsing through the fabric department and overtaken by some of the wonderful prints:

This color combination caught my eye. I love the bold colors in the stripped prints and the soft boldness (if there can actually be a thing) in the polka-dot prints.

Polka-Dots seem to be "in" this spring. I have seen so many different textiles with various sizes and colors of polka dots. My favorite is the brown and pink combination...It is something about pink and brown that just fit so well to me.

Another stripey print to the left that I just absolutely love and couldn't resist indulging in.

Here I am carrying out some supplies that I managed to pick out at the last minute for a quilt that I will attempt to make for my nephew "turtle." I was able to find the cutest turtle printed fleece fabric and a soft yellow fleece for the back. I am going to attempt to try to ribbon bind the quilt (never tried before) hopefully it works out for the best. Oh I almost forgot to mention the Walmart in my area like in many areas is getting rid of their fabric department so I scored great deals on all the fabric I purchased 25% off....I can't wait for the 50-75% off discount prices.

I leave you with a pic of my baby! He is so obsessed with his ball!!!

Stay Crafty and inspired!

2009-04-14T11:10:00.005-04:00

Hope You Had a Great Easter

I am guessing a huge majority of individuals were at church Easter Sunday, but we spent out Sunday doing our ritualistic routine after I was surprised with my Easter pressie and basket....

(Yummy Easter eggs, peeps and a chocolate bunny)

our routine:

Wake up...when ready to get up or when Gizzy (our Yorkie) needs to go out...we know this by him licking our faces to get us out of the bed.
Do the usual morning stuff once out of the bed....get dressed...get Gizzy ready
Then we start out on our walk to our nearest Dunkin Donuts...we typically do not buy anything but a Sunday paper...maybe Papatag (my fiance) might buy a coffee while Gizzy and I wait outside, but this Sunday we didn't get anything we just walked there and around our neighborhood.

Then we play with Gizzy and his favorite ball in the backyard...he is obsessed! Play time ended early because Gizzy couldn't focus and was too interested in licking this icky ball that belongs to our neighbors dog who slobs on everything! IICKKK
Back in the house to clean Gizzy off and to brush his hair (got to keep the Yorkie doo looking good)

eat a mini breakfast and get dressed for workout time! This Sunday it consisted of Turkey bacon and 1/2 an english muffin.......I am addicted to Turkey bacon (we don't eat pork or beef in our house)
off to practice (track) for us...
2 hours and a shower later
Dunch (dinner/lunch) Papatag Cooked Lasagna (we typically try to cook good meals on Sundays) good meaning larger meals than we normal cook or meals that might take longer.
Rest of the day was resting....watching a bit of the Tele and falling in and out of sleep

Hope you had a wonderful Sunday doing what you do!

2009-04-14T08:57:00.003-04:00

Welcome to DaDootDoots

I opened up a shop on etsy on: January 16, 2009. Please visit http://www.etsy.com/ to venture into the world of handmade shopping. Support Handmade artists! Please email or leave a comment if you see something that you like. I am also into trading crafts if you are a crafter. In my shop you will find original jewelry items as well as totes/bags and many more items.

(Earrings & a tiled necklace)

( A couple of my original glass tile pendants)

(Silver butterfly)

Stay Crafty!

Peace

Updates

2009-04-09T09:55:00.003-04:00

ETSY WONDERLAND!!!

I have finally been able to catch up JUST A BIT on taking some photos of some of my etsy inventory that I have had in my house for the last couple of weeks. I owe it all in part to Spring...hopefully now I will be able to take some better photos with the sunlight outside. New England winters can be brutal in terms of weather conditions...so I am thankful that I can get outside although it is still pretty chilly to take some new pics.

Here is a look of a couple of items that I have recently added to my shop:

Multi Colorful glass tile pendant necklace

Bad Girls Heart Butterflies Glass tile Necklace

Fly Away Birdie Glass Tile Necklace

***Click on the description if you want to be taken to the page where the item is listed

BABY UPDATE!!!

I have finally purchased my plane ticket to travel home for the birth of my brothers baby....oh and by the way airline ticket prices have gone down...just thought I would throw that in there. My brother has been sending me the cutest pictures of little "turtle" he is such a riot. He will be leaving the NICU in a couple of weeks and heading home! I can't wait!!!

I leave you with this funny pic of him...doesn't it look like he is flicking off the camera...what a little comedian already and not even a month old!

Stay Crafty!!!

Final Four

2009-04-06T21:51:00.003-04:00

GO GREEN ~ GO WHITE!!!

I am so proud to be a spartan!!!

Good Luck Spartans in the final four game tonight!

2009-04-01T09:08:00.004-04:00

HAPPY APRIL FOOLS DAY!!!

Well I have finally got around to posting some more of my wonderful jewelry that I have been working on. You can check out my site at: http://www.dadootdoots.etsy.com/

Yesterday was such a crazy day with work and with all of the info circulating around about the whole computer scare going on. I freaked out a bit but went home to check my PC and my system seems to be running fine besides the slow as ever Internet service we have (lol).

Hopefully today will be bright and sunny again so I can get outside and take some more pics of some jewelry that I need to list on ETSY. Etsy is wonderful and if you haven't been you should go to the website http://www.etsy.com/ and check out all of the wonderful artists that thrive in the handmade community. Oh and don't forget to stop by my page while you are there!!!

(The Queen Elizabeth Necklace) Made with antiqued silver. The pendant has a dried flower encrusted in the center. (click on the link to be directed to this item listing)

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=23052593

(The punky Bruster Necklace) Made with color changing beads and a silver change. Follow the link to be directed to this item:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=23050136

(Lock my heart away Necklace) This necklace features a bronze locket centered on a bronze chain. Follow the link for more pics and information on this item: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=23051198

(Lucky You four-leaf clover Necklace) This is a Four leaf clover pendant centered on a bronze chain. Follow the link for more information on this item: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=23051896

That is all for now! Have a Happy Start to April

Stay Crafty!

Babies

2009-03-30T11:01:00.004-04:00

I just love the smell of babies!

I have been consumed and enthralled in baby this and baby that with the recent birth of my nephew. The Nurse at the NIC-U couldn't believe that "Turtle" is an African American baby. Oh well, she should know that babeis and people come in all shapes, colors and sizes what difference does it make. If he grows up and decides he wants to be green that is just fine with us!

I am absolutely head over heels for my little nephew "Turtle." He is absolutely the cutest thing besides Gizzy. It amazes me how fast he is changing from day to day. He is slowly loosing his preemie alien look and starting to get the cutsie baby face! The little guy is a fighter and is doing so well after his operation. He should be able to start on Milk sometime this week.

Needless to say with all t

he baby-ness happening in my life right now I haven't been up to making too much for my etsy shop lately. I have been making loads of bibs, blankets and clothing for my little nephew!

It is funny that time is flying by and it is making me feel old each day. I am so excited and on cloud 9...I will feel so much better when the little fighter is 100% healthy and able to eat on his own so he can go home and be with his family!

My Baby Brother and his baby

Auntie Loves you Turtle!!!

Proud Auntie!!!

2009-03-23T09:09:00.006-04:00

The New Baby Boy!

Born March 22, 2009

Let me introduce to a little glimpse of my nephew...nicknamed turtle......

Congrats to my baby brother and his girlfriend. They will make wonderful parents

I am so excited that he is here even though he arrived unexpectedly and a month early. I love this little guy so much already! I can't wait to go and visit him!

Hugs and kisses from Auntie Turtle!

Happy Saturday

2009-03-21T20:49:00.004-04:00

What the Craft is up~!~

Just added some new Bags to my Etsy shop:

(sold March 22, 2009)

Check out http://www.dadootdoots.etsy.com/

Today was a great day. My little family here in New England (Mr. Gray, Gizzy and I) all took a trip to the Pet Edge store in MA. If you have a pet you have probably heard of it online at http://www.petedge.com/ They have the absolute best prices for pet supplies around. If you can make it to the store you can save even more. I also managed to trek to Joann Fabrics today. It was a mad house and I was totally annoyed with the cutters they had on staff! They were tooooo slow with cutting fabric and I had to wait 20 minutes to get a 1/2 yard of fabric cut! AHHH...I got it though and I am so happy! The rest of the day will be filled with sewing and oh the biggie....we rented the movie twilight to watch tonight (can't wait) I heard it is suppose to be ooober good!

Well that is all for now! Chow!

Stay Crafty!

Is Spring Finally Here?

2009-03-18T13:38:00.005-04:00

Today seems like the first glimpse of spring. I cannot believe how the birds are chirping and the sky seems so bright and blue. AHHHHHHHH...something about a nice bright day just brings a smile to my face and puts me in a wonderful mood all together. I was bit by the creative bug last night ( post pics later) while watching the movie "Role Models," you should see it if you are in need of a good laugh but be warned that if you are sensitive to foul language its not for you...seeing how I'm not...it was just hilarious!

Gizzy and I ventured off to the "boulevard" (fancy name they gave this grassy strip of walking space in the middle of a street) yesterday while it was nice out. He managed to meet a lot of other doggy pals and I managed to gab away with the owners about this or that in the doggy world. You can clearly see that Gizzy is over the winter just as much as we are at our house. Poor little guy was acting like a wild beast digging this, sniffing that, peeing on this, running after that.... I was in stitches laughing so hard at him. It was good for the both of us to get out together and enjoy a nice walk... this is New England who knows it just might snow next week (lol).

On another note, I have been completely addicted to Edy's Sherbet (see above pic). Addicted like....needing to eat it every night.... I don't even want to get on the scale this week (lol).

Well that is all for now....

Shall I say Stay cool and Crafty....nah....not just yet!

Stay warm and Crafty!!!

Crafting Away

2009-03-13T10:10:00.003-04:00

I have been busy lately trying to improve my shop pictures and adding some more items to my etsy shop: http://www.dadootdoots.etsy.com/.

Here are some of my new items that I have added

Stay Crafty!

If you build it...it will come!

2009-03-10T10:44:00.003-04:00

BOB THE BUILDERS!!!

Ray and I decided to tackle a much needed DIY project for Gizzy. Gizzy was using our bean bag to jump up onto and off the bed. Each morning I would either kick the huge beanbag or step onto it....so we decided it was time for his very own dog stairs to get on and off the bed. We could have easily went to the store and bought him some but what is more fun than doing it yourself.

(Ray starting the construction)

This project would have been a little easier if we didn't run out of wood at the lat minute. I guess that is what we get for going to Home Depot without a blue print of what we were going to do. We did a good job though for just randomly choosing figures from out heads and literally guessing the logistics of the stairs.

(Ray made a mistake and had to re-do some nails)

All together it took us about an hour from start to finish. We didn't use any of our power tools for this project just wood, nails, a mini saw and an old fashioned hammer; can't get more simple than that.

(just about finished)

Since we ran out of wood I decided to use some cardboard that we had lying around the apartment to close in the front of the stairs to be sure that Gizzy wouldn't fall through. It ended up working out great because I was able to write his name and nicknames on the stairs...not that he would care or anything...hes a dog...but it was fun for me at least!

(we make such a good team)

(the finished product)

Well, it isn't the prettiest set of stairs ever but it was made with love for our baby so we like it...plus it resolved our massive huge bean bag issue...now there is more space to walk around the bed.

(at the end of it all I was getting pretty dangerous with the staple gun)

All in a days work of living D.I.Y.

Stay warm and crafty!!!

Can you believe it is March?

2009-03-03T13:20:00.004-05:00

March Madness ALREADY?....

to start off mach we had a horrible snow storm here in New England. Can I be honest and tell you that I am so sick of snow I am about to pack a bag and head to the Caribbean somewhere! Things have been good on my end. I have sold 2 more items on my closeout shop http://www.beppin.etsy.com/. March 31, 2009 marks the last date that the shop will be open, so if you are in need of some "stuff" then why not check it out. All prices are discounted for a sale. My new shop http://www.dadootdoots.etsy.com/ has only made 2 sales, but the views on my items seem to be really promissing.

This weekend I had the USA Track and Field National competition. I ended up placing 7th which completely SUCKED! I didn't do good at all. My run was off and everything just looked a mess (you might have no clue what I am talking about if you aren't familiar with the jumps). Anyhow on a more positive note Ray and I are full throttle with remodeling our little piece of space in this world. We have decided to start with the living room.

On Sunday we purchased a reclining chocolate love seat and a new entertainment center (will post pics later). For now the futon that was in the living room is in storage and we dumped our old entertainment center that we built when we moved in together...it was about time for some adult furniture. I have been getting some great ideas from: http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/ there are so many good ideas and tips and tricks to try. I think our next task will be to paint the wall....but we might hold off on this until the weather turns for the better.

Well that is what my exciting world has been up to. I will be sure to post those pics so check back if you are interested in seeing the before and after pics of our living room...Oh and please don't laugh when you realize how incredibly small it is (lol)

Below are a couple of items listed in http://www.dadootdoots.etsy.com

peace and Love!

Stay Crafty

Sweetness

2009-02-23T15:09:00.004-05:00

I have been a litte M.I.A for a while but trust me there are really good reasons:
-work
-track
-home life
-etsy
-twitter
-Flickr

I haven't been taking that many new Pics lately because I was having an issue with my digital camera, but it all seemed to work out. I was hoping to score a new cannon Power shot camera at circuit city ~ seeing how they are all pretty much going out of business, but all the prices were scams! They jacked up the prices and then marked them down so you are actually paying the original price for the item. Oh well Old faithful (my Kodak) digital camera will have to do for now....until later

Stay Crafty
oh and if you are curious as to what I have been up to immediately you can follow me on twitter and Flickr:

www.twitter.com/dadootdoots
www.flickr.com/dadootdoots

AHHHHHHHHHHHH!

2009-02-19T12:00:00.009-05:00

Some things and People just SUCK!!!

This has had to be one of the most trying weeks that I have had in 2009. To start things off....Tuesday I had to go to court for a STUPID....let me repeat STUPID parking violation ticket. The ticket was issued because I didn't move my Car in time for the plow trucks! Who knew that the grand Ole state of RI had so much money to waste that they needed to plow a measly 1.5" of snow (what a joke)! Tuesday came and we (myself and neighbors) made our way to court to fight this outrageous ticket! Did we get off? NOOOOOOOOOOOOO! But if you speed, drive without a license, are practically drunk, or park on a sidewalk your ticket gets dismissed! What a waste of a judicial system! 135 bucks later and a pissing match with the courthouse judge ...I was escorted by cops out of the court house! No wonder why the population of RI will start to dwindle! No jobs, Crappy homes, Crappy judicial system...its all falling to shambles....Hear me out!!! if you are looking to move here DON'T!!!!!!!!!!!!!

So that was Tuesday....Yesterday (Wednesday) work was super busy as usual which I don't mind at all. What I did mind is that a co-worker decided to put in his two cents and comment on some of the home pics that I have in my office! Will you believe that he had the nerve to look at my photos and say out loud "man that is one ugly dog!" Oh no he didn't just call my baby UGLY! I was still boiling from having to pay $135 bucks for a ticket that was issued at 11pm...sorry I sleep buddies...I couldn't help but to mouth vomit! I said to him " don't call my baby ugly" and he said it again so I just blurted out "well you know what since we are being honest here ...your KID IS UGLY! so stop prancing his photo around the office!" He just stood there and looked at me like I was crazy! Ahhhhhhhh I felt good after I said that.....hehehehehe

On a good note check out some more items that I have added to my new shop:

www.dadootdoots.etsy.com

Teed hearts Earrings Sterling Silver wire wrapped earrings

Dragonfly Necklace

My baby Isn't Ugly...see all the ladies at the playgroup love him!

Stay Crafty!

Happy Valentines Day 2009

2009-02-14T23:41:00.005-05:00

Happy Valentines day!!!

We started our valentines day off at 12:30 am where we went to see Friday the 13th...so good!
Today has been such a great day!!! I was so excited to awake to my Valentines day gifts...a great massage and also a portable dvd player (this is going to be so great when we have to travel all over the country for meets).

We did a little shopping today at the outlets. I ended up getting some new running shoes and some new tights for track. Has anyone besides me realized the great sales that many retailers have been having. I got so much stuff super cheap! I love it.

Gizzy enjoyed Valentines day too...we gave Ray Chocolates and a stuffed dog (from gizzy) Gizzy took the dog back (reneged) and tried to rip it to shreds...we aren't sure if he thought it was some sort of competition for him or something (lol).

I have been working super hard on my new etsy shop: http://www.dadootdoots.etsy.com/

I named the shop after Gizzy...doots is his nick name that we call him. Check out some of the new stuff in my shop below:

I haven't been able to blog that much lately. I have been boggled down with my 9-5 and then with track and also with my new shop on etsy . I have managed to keep up with my new Twitter and Flickr pages...you can follow me at:

www.twitter.com/dadootdoots & www.flickr.com/dadootdoots

Stay Crafty and be sure to check out http://www.dadootdoots.etsy.com/

Unfortunately due to some inappropriate naming http://www.beppin.etsy.com/ will be closing March 31, 2009! I will be having some great sales so check it out too!

2009-02-06T21:34:00.001-05:00

Oh My goodness I have been so super busy!!!! AHHHHHHHH!!!! I will be back though in full affect real soon!!!

2009-02-03T12:55:00.003-05:00

Hello!

I have been so dedicated to opening up my new etsy shop! I am super excited and I have been buying supplies like crazy so I can start building a good inventory for the shop. I think I am going to focus mainly on bags and some jewelery. I had intended on making some clothing but I think I will hold that endeavour for another time in the near future.

I made this cute little hand pouch for my new etsy shop

I love simplistic wall art! I painted thses simple pics a while back....I thought the color scheme of our apartment was going to be blue and gray and it ended up being more of neutral browns and greens!!!

Hi

2009-01-30T22:42:00.003-05:00

Hello!

Whats been up lately. I have been so busy with Track and training that I have had little time for myself and very little time to blog. I have a meet in the morning so I have a bit of down time right now. So...who has been watching the new season of the "Real World" on MTV? I absolutely this season and I am not a big reality TV person at all let alone a big TV person. I think this is the first time that the cast actually seems "real".....and who doesn't love the transgendered gal! GO Caitlin!!!
Anyhow things have been good over this way....I am in the works of finalizing all the details for my new Etsy shop. Thank you so much to Julie at www.GlamourDamaged.etsy.com she created me an awesome banner for my new shop! I am having some trouble with my digital camera so I don't have any pics to post. I hopefully will have some pics to post really soon.

Stay Crafty!!!

2009-01-25T20:53:00.002-05:00

SO excited!

I am excited to announce that I have opened up my new Etsy Shop! I am not going to reveal it just yet, but I will definitely be revealing it soon! Yeah!!!!

TOo many important things!

2009-01-21T22:45:00.006-05:00

Photos, working, the Inaguration....all happy things!!!

Hello!!!

I love this picture...the shingles look surreal shinning in the sunlight!

have been gone for some time. I have been focusing on work lately. I have made the decision to close my beppin.etsy.com shop for good. Don't worry though because I will be back in a month or so when I have more time to dedicate to my crafts.
I have been taking a lot of pics lately:

This picture is amazing! Simplistic but artsy if I must say myself

I am learning how to use the different functions on my camera...I love the black and white

Gizzy got a new Snowman toy...he loves to wrestle it! LOL

What a great time it has been! GO President Barack Obama! Yeah it is finally official.

Have a great day!

2009-01-16T08:49:00.002-05:00

Life is fun and interesting!!!

"Hello"

Last night was so exciting. Ray and I went to an early preview of " My bloody Valentine 3D." We still had to pay the normal price and don't you know when I say normal that the normal price for a 3D movie for two people is $27 bucks. Can you believe it!!! Although the movie was decent, we both agreed that it was no wear near worth the amount of money we paid for it. It was fun and exciting to see my first 3D movie...the glasses gave me an absolute headache and my eyes were coo-coo once the movie was finished!

One of my new Years resolutions was to save money and I have been doing just that lately. It is weird cutting out coupons and scrapping through the Sunday paper for great sales, but I keep telling myself that it is all worth it.

Here is a list of my favorite coupon sites:
www.redplum.com
littlemissknowitall.blogspot.com
shaws.com
couponmom.com

Who doesn't like saving money!!!

Anyhow...That is how things have been going for me. Oh I almost forgot to mention that we are going to look at a few apartment this weekend. I can just see the light at the end of the tunnel....yeah!

Peace!!!

Monday Madness Etsy Features

2009-01-12T18:52:00.017-05:00

" I love Butterflies"

Etsy featured Butterfly Sellers

The first shop I would like to introduce you to is Rochelle31

http://www.rochelle31.etsy.com/

Please follow the link to her site: http://www.etsy.com/profile.php?user_id=5116786. The picture to the right is a one of a kind by Rochelle31 ------>

Check out one of my favorite butterfly items from her shop: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18191238 The blue butterfly card which is a one of a kind original drawing in pen, ink and watercolor. She is a wonderful artist with great cards and prints.

I would like to introduce you to Sunny Rising Leather

http://www.sunnyrisingleather.etsy.com/

If you haven't heard of this artist you are truly missing out. Sunnyrisingleather was featured on etsy and you can see a video of the artist and some of her art work by going to http://www.etsy.com/storque/handmade-life/handmade-portraits-sunny-rising-leather-3017/

She has a wonderful variety of butterfly items. My favorite item from her shop is http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17192481. It is a wonderful necklace with a leather butterfly pendant pictured to the right

I would like to introduce you to BabyWhiteElephant

http://www.babywhiteelephant.etsy.com/

BabyWhiteElephant is an innovative preserved nature designer that has inspired other shops for Years... BabyWhiteElephant is the first, longest and most successful Preserved nature designer on the web. If you love nature you will be sure to love this shop.

My favorite butterfly item is http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=15679828 pictured to the right.

I would like to introduce you to CopperSpringsLeather

http://www.copperspringsleather.etsy.com/

CopperSpringsLeather offers leather items that are hand carved, tooled, stitched, and dyed/painted. This shop has a variety of items from wallets, money clips, cuffs, bracelets, to check book covers. You will be sure to find something in this shop to tickle your fancy...and to boot...this artist has a great variety of butterfly items!!!

My favorite butterfly item is pictured to the right http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7962757.

I would like to introduce you to JPatPurses

http://www.jpatpurses.etsy.com/

JPATPURSES has been a featured seller on http://www.etsy.com/. At JPATPURSES you will find wristlets, purses, pouches, ipod carriers and more. This seller has an unique eye for detail and designs. Be sure to check out all the designs and creations this seller has to offer

My favorite butterfly item is pictured to the right http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18875683

I would like to encourage all of you readers to please check out all of the shops featured above. They are all unique designers that have an array of handmade items & designs. Please note that all pictures are the property of the shop owners and please do not use these pictures without prior approval from the shop owner.

Stay Crafty and Stay tuned for Next Monday where I will be featuring new Etsy Sellers for the "All About Green" theme.

Peace!!!

New Monday Madness

2009-01-12T11:08:00.006-05:00

Hello Crafters!

As you may or may not know I have a shop at http://www.beppin.etsy.com/ where I sell my handmade goods. Etsy is the place where you can buy and sell all things handmade.

I have decided to spread the etsy love and will be announcing every Monday "Monday Madness," where I will be hosting a theme and featuring etsy sellers.

To get this party started, the first theme; which will be posted tonight will be titled " I love butterflies." I am head over heels for butterflies and everything linked to them...as a matter of fact, I have two butterfly tattoos.

Please make sure to check back later to see the featured sellers and items. If you are an "Etsy Seller" and would like your item displayed on my blog please leave a comment below with your etsy shop attached and I will do my best to fit your item into one of my themes...

Stay Crafty!!!

A Bit Here A Bit There

2009-01-10T21:15:00.008-05:00

YUP THIS IS ME...ABOVE....

Track Meet

- Ok, I had my first track meet of the season. It went really well for the first meet. I only went from my 16 step approach (which is a reduced approach) but I managed to start the season off decent. Ray ended up popping something in his knee, so it looks like we will be headed to the doctors office tomorrow...it sucks because it hurts bad but we can't go to the emergency room because his health insurance doesn't kick in until next week. Luckily he is strong or crazy like that. Replay of what happened: he ran down the run way popped on the Long jump board and at the same time heard/felt something pop in his knee...he then landed in the sand like someone shot him....that jump ended is rounds of jumps and possibly the rest of his indoor season! I feel so bad for him :(

I was so exhausted the entire meet; I didn't eat properly which was bad-bad-bad! We left the house this morning at 5:30am and didn't get home until 8:30 pm. AHHHHHHHHHH!!! I am not sure we will be going to this particular meet again...it was way to far and not to mention we got more freaking snow!

Another snowy ride home

Anyhow I forgot my camera!!! BUmmer...but there will be many more meets to take pics at

Have a good night...I need to rest I am so sore and tight...Good thing I have Yoga in the morning!

Gizzy was happy when we finally got home and I was too happy to see him@!

Peace!

Nervous

2009-01-09T08:40:00.004-05:00

Tomorrow will be my first track meet of the season. I am super nervous because I haven't been in competition mode since the OLYMPIC TRIALS...I guess I really shouldn't be nervous but I am!!! I always seem to get this anxiety feeling like my stomach is in my throat up until the point that I am running down the runway. AHHHHHHHHHHH....well wish me luck...I will post some pics of the Meet and how I do tomorrow!

Working out & Eating

2009-01-08T20:41:00.007-05:00

Yeah I like horror movies, Starbucks and dressing like a boy...SO WHAT!!!

Hello All Ye People!!! Sometimes I get these urges to be silly and weird! Yup that's me above...scary how much I look like a boy....

My day was pretty great today! The highlight of my day today was working out this evening. I love it when track practices consists of jumping...! And who doesn't love eating...dinner was great...I must say that I am obsessed with food...luckily I have pretty good eating habits or else it could be a disaster. Ray cooked Salmon for dinner...it was yummy and light enough so I didn't feel super stuffy full after working out.

I am super excited because tomorrow Ray and I are going to see the "Unborn" he doesn't know it though...but we are definitely going. I am in love with horror like suspense movies...and this seems like it should be pretty good even though it is only rated PG-13!

In theaters tomorrow...

Me and Gizzy at one of my favorite pick me upper joints....If you haven't tried the Carmel APple Spice hot drink they have...TRY IT...if you like apple juice you will love it.

Here are some of my agate necklaces that I will be reposting for my etsy website (http://www.beppin.etsy.com/)

Stay warm and Crafty

2009-01-04T16:43:00.009-05:00

What a lovely day

No Really... I don't wear this much make-up...hardly wear make-up at all...I was just experimenting.

Today has been a great day. Last night I stayed up late watching old school movies on the computer (http://www.netflix.com/) you can instantly watch a variety of movies. I chose to watch some cheesy horror flicks. It was fun but my eyes started to burn at 3:00am and since my family ditched me around midnight it was time for bed. I definitely slept in this morning and didn't roll out of bed until about 11:00am it was great! We did our usual ritualistic things we do on Sunday...clean, get a Sunday paper, get some dunkin coffee, & cook a large breakfast (wheat pancakes was the choice today).

We took the baby (Gizzy) to Petco to let him run around a bit. He loves it there...and it is a little treat for him since he has been cooped in the house due to the weather. Yorkies aren't the best winter dogs...at least Gizzy isn't...he hates being cold. Back to the puppy pads! If only he would go on them 100% of the time. Thank goodness for hardwood floors.
The poor little guy was getting cabin fever and was going nuts and started acting like a cat (lol)! Petco was just what he needed...sniffing...peeing...and running through the store. He even scored some free treats...can't beat that :) !

I made lunch, which was semi-healthy minus the chips...so we are on the right track with eating healthy.

I braided my hair which took forever but I just had to do something because spending 30 minutes in the morning taming my hair is just not my style in the winter. Now with my hair braided I just have to simply get up and go! YES! It did take me like 8 hours to do it this time. I took some fun pics with me in make-up...I told myself that I was finally going to learn how to be a bit more girly so here went my attempt.... thanks to the great make-up kit I got from my fiance from Ulta beauty store..
Well here it is 5:00pm and now I have to go and get ready for my day tomorrow. Me and the fiance might head on over to "Twin Rivers" which is our casino just to have a drink or two!!!

Oh...look at the new scarves I have made for my etsy shop....

Until Next time...stay warm and Crafty

2009-01-01T17:40:00.003-05:00

New Years Resolutions for 2009 (not in order by relevance)

a. Loose a little bit of fat and put on more muscle
b. Craft more/ blog more
c. Continue to find ways to save money
d. Move out of the apartment
e. Search/find a new Career that is creative but pays just as good as my current
f. Continue to be a great friend/family member to those who care about me

I know...its a simple list for now, but I am sure I will continue to elaborate on it as the year goes on.

Peace!!!

2008-12-31T23:55:00.006-05:00

Random end of the year (2008 Pics)

Happy New Year!!!

My Brother and Ray and my brothers motorcycle

My new tattoo of 2008...its a butterfly with 4 stars around it. The Starr's represent my Brother, Grandmother, Mother and me. Ahhh my skin looks horrible here but its just because the tattoo was protected with a bandage and when I took the bandage off the sticky stuff left a residue on my leg

Gizzy enjoying a warm days walk in GA

Yummy scrumptious cinnamon rolls I made on Christmas that I pride myself on...don't you just love the vintage plate they are on...

Me, Ray & Gizzy on New Years Eve

(New Years Eve Being Silly...as usual)

(2008...Mom, Me & Gizzy at the ATL airport heading back to New England)

(Gizzy enjoying Moms house in Georgia...and the warm weather)

(My Brother and I on his motorcycle...he wouldn't dare let me be on it or even think about driving it by myself)

Happy New Year!!!

2008-12-30T23:38:00.005-05:00

LOL...yah...I had to pick out the fro for a fun pic

Back to reality!!!

I am back from Georgia. I had a wonderful Christmas and I hope everyone did too. Its always nice visiting family, but it was nice being home and opening up our pressies at the house. I got some good gifts...things I needed and really wanted ( I will have to post the pics ). I am having a hard time adjusting back to work life. The more I think about it...the more I am unhappy with what I am doing but I am lucky and so very thankful that I have a job and can provide for myself...I think this is what is keeping me at my job, especially since the economy is not the hottest at the moment. It sucks though because deep inside I know I am not doing what I love. Anyhow... guess what...I got a new Tattoo ( I will have to post that later too). I got a butterfly on my left leg with 4 hearts surrounding it...its pretty cool but at this point it itches like crazy...and it hurt like heck to boot.

Well...I have to go get ready for another day tomorrow. It is sad to say but I have been neglecting to post things in my Etsy shop but now that the holidays are just about over I am pretty sure that I will be back on track!

Smiles!!!

2008-12-24T16:19:00.004-05:00

A WARM AND SUNNY CHRISTMAS

The trip here has been wonderful. I can't believe the warm weather that they are having. It is literally 75 degrees and when we left our house we left 15 degree weather. Hopefully we don't get sick from such a drastic weather change...well in my case it won't matter anyway since I basically have the "bola" virus (this is what my family calls a bad cold) or something of that nature...lol. It has been great seeing my Mom and brother. I finally got to meet my Mothers significant other...nice guy...he got the stamp of approval, which is rare coming from me. Now the final test will be meeting my brothers girlfriend who will also be the mother of my soon to be nephew....I forgot to post about that...but basically my brother beat me to the punch and will be a father sometime in April. That is all I feel like discussing about that matter!

Anyhow...I made it here safe and sound now I have to go back to enjoying my time with my family. I will post pictures when I am back home!~ pics finally posted!!!

The Family on Christmas (my borther, me in the middle with the old school peace signs, Ray & Mom)

Peace out!

2008-12-21T18:56:00.009-05:00

Snowie Snow OH NO video featuring GIZZY!

This is me and Gizzy out in the snow for a brief moment this afternoon while Ray was shoveling the sidewalk...we were in the way!!! LOL! Who cares, we had fun anyway :)

So it snowed all day again and I didn't do that much today. I have been sleeping on and off for pretty much the entire day. I did manage to get up and go play in the snow for a bit while I had a sudded burst of energy. I just hope this bug that I have leaves soooon!!! I am sick and tired of being sick and tired! I will be putting my etsy shop on vacation until I come back from vacation for Christmas! I will be MIA for a while......sooooo MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

I hope you enjoyed the video!

Ray & Gizzy

Stay Warm and Crafty!!!

SNOW DAY!

2008-12-20T22:01:00.004-05:00

I SWEAR MY CAR IS POSSESSED!

Ok, the snow finally came and although I was super excited...I am sick of it already. There is this stupid city ordinance that we cannot park our car on the street when there is massive snow so the snow trucks can come and scoop the streets (which they do a crappy job of). This darn ordinance meant that I had to drive around in the snowy blizzardy like weather until I could figure out where to park my car because our apartment doesn't have a parking lot. I know this may sound bad but we snuk and parked our car in our behind neighbors driveway...they have oober space and we "assumed" they wouldn't mind! This all happened yesterday

When I woke up this morning I swear I knew it was going to be a bad start to the day. I was already grumpy because my cold doesn't seem to be getting any better and it still feels like I swallowed an elephant!!! Theraflu is working though...I am starting to cough up that muky muk stuff! Ok...back to the horrible morning. Ray fraking woke me up at like 8:00am to get up to move my car out of the neighbors driveway! So don't you know I went to move the car and my locks were freaking frozen once again! AHHHHHHHHH! I don't know what I am going to do with these locks this winter! Ray and I walked about 5 gallons of boiling hot water to try to unlock my car. Finally we gave up on the drivers side and used the hot water to open the passenger side and I just climbed over the seat to the driver side to drive the car back out to the street! This whole ordeal took about 45 minutes....with freezing wet hands...knee deep snow and a banging headache. Finally the car ordeal is over and I don't have to move the car until work Monday! YES! I will have to deal with it on Monday!

mISSING IN ACTION AND SNOW!!!

2008-12-18T20:48:00.006-05:00

THE SNOW IS COMING!!!

MISSING IN ACTION!!!

GIZZY!

I SWALLOWED AN ELEPHANT!

This is our baby Gizzy above when he was a wee tot!

The pic above is our 2008 family Christmas Card photo...we do one every year! Note we are all colored coordinated and both have black hats on...Gizzy wouldn't keep his on his head for more than a milli second! I edited the pic with http://www.picnik.com/!

SO basically I have been M.I.A. for a while. A lot has been going on gearing up for the holiday not to mention that I freaking feel like I swallowed an Elephant!!! I think I am getting the bugggg that is going around. I sold a heart bracelet on Etsy the other day and was super excited to see that the item was headed all the way down under (Australia)...so exciting. I haven't bothered adding anything new to the shop lately because I will be putting the shop on Vacation mode next week until after Christmas....unfortunately and fortunately I will not have access to my supplies for the holiday.

Did you all hear that there is a freaking storm headed this way to New England. I will give you a few clues of what state in New England I live in...well...1. We have the worst economy in the United States right now....2. Everyone and there fraking neighbor are related...3. Paaaking the car is used instead of "parking" the car...4. There is/was a huge mob influence...5. you can drive to one end of the state to the other in a half an hour...6. People don't understand what the heck a stop sign is or using a blinker...7. The speed limit on the crappy freeway is 55 mph...give up???? WEll look all the way down for the answer. Anyhow back to what I was saying...so there is this terrible storm headed and I can almost care less about the snow....it is the crack heads that will be driving in the snow that I am worried about! The state issued a state of emergency and closed all schools but all other business are "suppose" to remain open as normal business would. SUCKS! So this means that I am going to have to dodge people in the morning as well as control my little car in the slippery weather! AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!~

I have also been MIA because we are back in competition mode, so the weekends are pretty much locked with Track and Field meets. Ray had his first meet at Harvard this past weekend. I didn't compete because my season was very long long last season...here we are below at the very track where we met and the rest is history!

Oh I was ooober excited that I was on the news last night. I had a huge meeting at work and my boss and the community facilitator of the meeting were zoomed in on for footage on the local fox news....so I guess I got my hot 1.5 seconds of local fame (LOL). I didn't get to see the mini clip but I hope I wasn't scratching or digging...not that I would be anyway...hahahaahahhaaaa!

Before I go...check out these pajamas that my Aunt gave me one Christmas...I made the most of the present, but don't I look hideous in the basically "adult" sized onsie! LOL. What can you do though, the gift was given out of love and I love my Aunt with all my heart

Stay warm and Crafty....

PS. RHODE ISLAND is the answer...I am going to take some pics of the snow and the crazy drivers.

Coco Butter, chapped lips and a Fast Friday

2008-12-12T23:37:00.002-05:00

I have finally been able to find something that heals my desperately chapped lips...CoCo Butter! It is the absolute best thing for chapped lips. I figured since it heals dry skin so well it wouldn't hurt to try it and it worked. Yeah....now I have to go and stock up on those CoCo butter sticks before winter truly sets in.

I have been a little pissed lately, my car is acting possessed and it hasn't even snowed here yet. I have had to take hot water to my car for the past couple of mornings to defrost my locks...I look like a goonie carrying a pot of boiling water to my car in the morning! Does anyone out there know what works to stop locks from freezing? Please help!!!

Oh my goodness Friday has come and gone so fast. Work was annoying and it seemed like there was this horrible stench of "sausage water" (can you imagine the smell) in the air that I could not escape from. I felt like I wanted to vomit the entire day. I have managed to find some time to update some of my horrible etsy pics! Check out my site to see them...beppin.etsy.com

Well that is it for tonight...I have to be up early in the morning.

Night...Stay cool and crafty!

New Etsy Items

2008-12-06T22:32:00.003-05:00

Hello!

I wanted to be sure that I posted a couple of the new Items that I will be putting in my etsy shop. I have temporarily been focusing more of my attention on totes, clothing and wristlets! Let me know what you think!!!

STAY CRAFTY!

FREE WITH $15 SHOP PURCHASE

2008-12-06T22:27:00.003-05:00

FREE!!! ---->
www.beppin.etsy.com

Whats up!

For a limited time I will be giving away key chain holders with a $15 dollar purchase. Also I am giving away free patterns. To get a free pattern simply add a comment to this posting with your size and I will see what I have available. All patterns are McCall's 1980-1992 women's clothing patterns (No purchase in my shop necessary to receive a free pattern).

Have a Great Crafty Day!!!

Want some Patterns?

2008-12-04T21:37:00.005-05:00

Hiya...so I thought I would post about some amazing patterns that I received. I have posted some of them on my etsy site, but my main goal is to give some of them away. I will be randomly giving away pattens from my blog. In order to possibly receive a free pattern just send me your size. I will be honest that the pattern sizes that I have are limited. I have shirts, dresses, skirts, and a bit more. Please note that all these patterns are from the early 90's to the late 80's.

My day today was great....I got a ton of compliments at work, which was completely unexpected but who doesn't love to have a compliment every now and then!!! Track practice was hard and it made it even harder that we had an audience watching us...talk about a bit of pressure! Now I am busy watching "Chef Ramsey" on the show..Kitchen Nightmares......I love this show..

I am going to continue to add totes, jewelry, and even some scarves to my etsy shop!

Check it out!

Well I will leave you all will a quote for the night

"Commit to excellence"

Have a crafty night!

Me Love You.....Its been a Long Time! :)

2008-12-03T20:22:00.008-05:00

I have missed you all!

This will be quite a long post since I haven't been here in a while. Ahhhhh so much has happened so let me catch you up!

First off...I celebrated my 27th birthday!!! YEAh!

Pic of me and Gizzy on my last day of being 26!

My hand knitted poncho that I won at my craft show! I absolutely love it and purple is my favorite color so I thought it was only fitting to wear it on my Birthday out to dinner.

I absolutely love Papa Razzi Restaurant...check to see if you have one near where you are...the food it amazing! and no, I don't get paid to endorse them....lol.

After such a great Birthday...we were so geared up and couldn't wait for Thanks Giving. We didn't have any plans and we knew our good friend Theo doesn't celebrate American Holidays so it was only fitting for the three of us to spend the holiday together in a non traditional enviornment...we were thankful we were with each other though... We ended up eating Japanese food on Thanks Giving! It was tasty!

Shanghai Gardens, Ray, Theo and I.

Ray and I after a full tummy of yummy Thanks Giving Japanese food!

After Thanks Giving I was pretty excited to get in on some of the black Friday action...It went well. I was up and at Walmart at 4:45. The store opened up at 5:00 and surprisingly I was one of the first people in the store (only because I cut the line...shhhhh)! I won't post what I got because Ray checks my blog...lets just say that I got some great deals...I also ventured to the mall to Target, Macys, Sears, JCPenny, and the Disney Store.

It is a tradition in our house that we put up the Christmas tree after Thanks Giving. Since this was the first time that Ray and I celebrated Thanks Giving at home alone, we decided to wait until Black Friday to put the tree up...it turned out well...note we don't have many ornaments on the tree and none on the bottom...that little devil Gizzy tried knocking off the ornaments so we cut back and modified the tree!

The little devil!

More of the little Devil!

I will say goodnight with my wonderful homemade potpie dish. Home made as in I took it out of the box it came in and cooked it at home. hahahahahaha

Until next time...Stay warm and Crafty!

Animals galore!

2008-11-20T09:43:00.007-05:00

So I have been a little behind with keeping up on my blog lately. My mind has completely been on my birthday! Yeah only a couple of more days until the big day and boy do I mean big. I can't believe how time is flying by. I feel old! On another note...I was sifting through some pictures and I found some great animal pics that I shot a while back from various places that I have traveled and thought that I should share them with everyone since I do aspire to someday be a National Geographic Photographer (Just kiddin)! I just love snapping pics of animals...

Eugene, Oregon Bird -----------------Um...not sure what this is yet!

Indiainapolis, Indiana Pigeon -------Eugene, Oregon Duck

Arachnid from Eugene, Oregon ------Stingray in Nassau, Bahamas

New Etsy Items

2008-11-16T19:41:00.004-05:00

Check out some of my new items I added to my etsy shop above

Ah HA!

2008-11-15T22:40:00.002-05:00

This is what I came home to yesterday after only being away from the house for 3 hours...I guess Gizzy was a little upset with me!!! Poor baby, he loves his Mommy so much he just couldn't resist digging through my yarn stash and spreading it everywhere.

The Weekender

2008-11-10T09:09:00.012-05:00

Birthdays, Shopping and fun Galore!

Friday was my hubbys birthday. We had a blast. He turned....28! Yes, I said 28...he is getting old...not much longer and he will be 30! ahhhhh (screams) lol! Birthdays are usually full of fun and laughter at our house. We decided to go to the Casino Resort "Foxwoods" to have dinner, drinks and a little gambling :) Overall, I think that he enjoyed himself and I had a great time too!

<~~~My Hubby with his new Vest and his new Bottle of Ciroc! He loved his gifts (thank goodness). I worked in the morning saturday, the time went by fast! OLD NAVY was having this huge .99 sale on their scarves and hats...since I had to work and I knew that I would miss all the sales so I sent the hubby out and he did a wonderful job nagging me some great scarves!

-----------------> My new scarf!

The rest of the weekend was Christmas shopping and relaxing at home with the family! Thank goodness we have Tuesday off. I can't wait for a day off at the start of the week! Yeah. Oh yeah ...I almost forgot to share my new wood beaded bracelet. I promise that I am going to start posting tons more stuff on my etsy shop. Now that I have the Bahamas out of my veins I can concentrate on tasks at hand! Smiles!

My New wood Bracelet

CIAO!

ELECTION DAY 08

2008-11-04T23:31:00.009-05:00

Ok, so the spelling of his name...Missed that "C" in there

Yes, we did it...the Nation BARACKED the VOTE!

THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES...

BARACK OBAMA!!!

I can't believe that in my life time I have witnessed a nation coming together to elect a BLACK president. So many people of all colors, races and creeds fought for equality and today it has come true! Thank you for all of you who voted and made a dream of so many come true.

This is such an important day! Thank you...Thank you.

Rock the VOTE!

2008-11-04T20:46:00.002-05:00

We Baracked the vote at our house!

I can't wait until the results. I can't believe that either way I am going to be apart of history! Could it be that the United States of America might have their first Black (mixed race) President and a BLACK First Lady. I can't believe it...this is truely a day that I want to cry for joy... I know my ancestors fight for equality did not go in vain.

Halloweenie

2008-10-29T22:30:00.005-04:00

Finished Costume

I wanted to show everyone my finished costume! I made it all myself except for the hat!

Ok, I am off to finish packing for the Bahamas! See you all after Halloween! Until then....CIAO!

2008-10-29T09:39:00.003-04:00

The fishies are going to get me!

The Bahamas is waiting

for me!!!

I am super excited to be heading to the bahamas tomorrow. Here are some pics from last years trip

Me and my cousin enjoying the beach...I just love the clear water

Random pics of a hotel we visited and the dock.

I will be sure to post pics of this years excursion!

CIAO!

Sunday Blues

2008-10-27T08:39:00.011-04:00

Warm Weather on October 26th!!!

Sunday went by so so so fast at our house. It wasn't a very exciting eventful Sunday, but we got a lot of stuff done in order to start our Monday off good....i.e: grocery shopping, etc.
This is me after grocery shopping. All I wanted to do was lay on the couch and relax. The football games were about to come on so EVERYONE and their kids were in the grocery store! Don't you hate when you make grocery store errors. After we checked our receipts we realized that we paid $4.99 for a bag of onions....returned....we don't eat onions like that!

I thought this was such a neat picture of our house plants. I love how the sun is feeding them so much light. From the left we have: a corn plant (barely in the pic), spider plant, bamboo, aloe- vera, baby spider plant, willow plant, and a corn plant. I love my plant babies...I just hope they all survive this winter!

I wanted to post a few things that I made for the craft show that I didn't get a chance to display or put up on etsy!

Above is a coin purse/make-up purse and two different styled wristlets (these will be in my etsy shop next week)

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT Or SOMETHING CLOSE!

here are a couple pics from track practice yesterday...

Our buddy Theo!

Theo and I stretching away!
Ray concentrating on his shoe!

Me...honoring my Smart Water which kept me well hydrated!

I will leave you with a quick clip of Gizzy attacking a bag of chips that Ray left on the futon last night. To Rays surprise he returned from the kitchen to witness Gizzy sneaking the bag of chips off the futon only to try to open them (luckily I had the camera close to catch him in action)....

Ciao!

Ahhhhh Cold weather!

2008-10-24T10:34:00.006-04:00

Is Father Winter early?

I don't know about other parts of the country, but here in New England it is freezing (31 degrees this morning). This morning I woke up and literally shivered down the hall to get ready for work. When I went outside this is what I had to deal with:

Frost on my car

I had to scrape all the windows!

The finished product (not the best scraping) but I got it done...was a bit late for work!

I happened to find this after I was finished scraping my car (how convenient). This stuff works wonders! I purchased it for .75 over the summer when all the winter stuff was on clearance :) Yes!

Me annoyed already this morning!

I must say that even though I complain about the cold weather there is something comforting about snuggling up with a fuzzy blanket, wearing fuzzy socks, long pajamas, hot bubble baths, hot apple cider, soup & sour dough bread that is simply comforting! :)

Ciao!

Wholefoods Chicken for dinner and Grandpa out grew the lion!

2008-10-24T10:10:00.009-04:00

OK, So yesterday (10/23/08) I was pretty excited to see that Wholefoods had Organic non processed whole chickens on sale for .99 /lb....seriously you can't beat the price. I got a good sized one for $4.05. I will be honest and say that I was terrified once I got the chicken home and took it out of the plastic. It was pretty disgusting ( I understand why there are vegetarians in the world). I soaked it in lemon juice, vinegar and water ( I hear it is suppose to kill any germs). I had no clue how much fat and icky stuff was on chicken. Anyhow...I seasoned it up...stuffed it with onions and peppers...cooked it for l.5 hours...It was really easy and scrumptious! Sorry no finale pics.

The Chicken Seasoned

The Chopped Peppers I stuffed it with!

Grandpa (aka Gizzy the dog)

I was super shocked to see the adorable cute Lion Halloween costume that I purchased for Gizzy last year is absolutely too small for him now. My goodness I hadn't realized how long he has gotten these few months.

Notice that the tail looks like it is growing from his back

He hated it...especially the fluffy mane around his head (haahaha)!

Thats all for now!

Craftshow Success

2008-10-21T14:30:00.006-04:00

I had my very first craft show this past saturday. It went great. I have to give credit to my wonderful fiance who sat there with me the entire day and helped me tremendously with sales and handling the money....Oh I better not forget to mention that he cut out about 60% of my materials for my bags, totes, wristlets, and quilts...he is my super star!

Here are a couple of my items:

I definately learned a lot and I will be more prepared for my next show which will be next year sometime in 2009. I definately recommend all crafters to give a craft show a chance. It was great and people seemed to rave about my stuff. It wa a nice feeling to see people appreciate all the hard work and time I put into my things.

Cheers!

Beppin Giveaway

2008-10-13T02:38:00.003-04:00

http://www.beppin.etsy.com/ Giveaway.......

Thank you so much for those of you who entered the Beppin Giveaway. I am happy to say there were two winners:

quitecontrary1977 & DollCloset.

Please check back for the next Beppin.etsy.com shop giveaway.

Proud Auntie

2008-10-09T13:54:00.006-04:00

I have been meaning to post some of the pics of my Godson and Nephew:
Little Aden

my sister Marisa, Me, and my newphew Aden.

The proud Uncle Ray & Aden

Me scrunching up while Aden perceeds to let them rip in my lap (lol)

Aden, I can't wait to watch you grow up into a fun-loving little being

Work, Sleep, Craft

2008-10-09T08:42:00.009-04:00

Crafting, Oprah, Work, no time for cooking?

Yesterday was a trying and exhausting day. It seemed as if nothing was going right at work...does it ever. I was constantly trying to resolve things. I was in a constant state of crafting la la land! I got to fish around on the etsy forms a bit and I am proud to say that it was great. I think I am a new found forum junkie! I even scored a purchase from posting on the forum thank you :

http://www.etsy.com/profile.php?user_id=5550524.

Check out her etsy site she has some great stuff! I was super excited to rush home after work so that I could catch the OPRAH show. I pride myself on being a smart and money conscientious person...and that was what the show was about...American people living within their means. I got some great tips and I am definitely going to check out http://www.couponmoms.com/ where you can print off coupons online....Amazing. This reminds me that I need to start thinking of some simple recipes for quick meals. I definitely need help with this one. It is just Ray and I...no kids yet, but we still try to pride ourselves on eating good healthy meals and not eating out that much. Tips or websites would be great.

Here was my crazy hectic schedule yesterday:

7:15 wake up (feed the dog) get dressed, pack lunch

7:45 leave the house for work

8:05 Arrive at work, eat a mini breakfast do the normal routine (check emails, voice mails)

8:10 - 3:30 Work work work

3:45 Arrive at home, walk gizzy, give Gizzy a bath, Vacuum the rugs

4:05 sit and watch Oprah

6:15 Wake up from a mini nap and realize I missed the ending of OPRAH

6:30 Iron work clothes, get things organized for the next day

6:45 Ray arrives home

7:00 off to track practice (bounding & Lifting)

8:40 Stop at the Mediterranean store for dinner

9:00 Arrive back at home...shower start finishing some crafts for the craft show

10:00 package my etsy order

10:30 sit and relax for a minute

11:00 off to bed!

What a wonderful day...right .....SMILE

cHaO!

Halloweenie Costumes

2008-10-05T01:14:00.007-04:00

Halloweenie Goodness

So I haven't decided on a costume for myself for our cruise get away, but I managed to score a cute costume for my baby Gizzy at the store the other day! Tell me what you think... I think I did a good job and I think the costume is fitting.

It has become a tradition that Ray, Theo (our buddy) and I do a haunted "something" for Halloween. So this year we think that we are going to try the Haunted Factory of Terror....Yes...Ray....no screaming or crawling on the ground this year....OK! (lol)

Ray and Gizzy surprised me on Saturday with my Halloween gift: I love my fiance and my baby boy...they treat me so good!!

flowers and a pumpkin

This weekend was great. Even though I worked on Saturday with the girls, its not like working at all. We have a blast together. Ray and I did some around the house shopping and I can't even begin to tell you how excited I was that many stores had 75% of sales! YEAH who doesn't love a good quality bargain.

Ps. Don't forget to enter the free giveaway for an item in my etsy shop!!!

CHAO!

Beppin.etsy.com Contest!!!

2008-10-01T08:51:00.008-04:00

ENTER THE BEPPIN.ETSY.COM GIVE AWAY

Once again I haven't been the most steady person at blogging but I am back in action after taking some time off to rest and sip on wheat grass shakes (yummmmy)!

Ok so here is the scoop. I am giving away one free...did you hear me..I said FREE Item in my etsy shop. All you have to do to be a contestant is tell me which item in my shop you like the best and why. I will be announcing the winner on my blog October 11, 2008. Check back to see if you are the winner. Not sure of where you can check out my stuff: Go here: http://beppin.etsy.com/

Choa

its been a while

2008-09-23T08:20:00.004-04:00

So things have been looking up lately. I sold an order last night from my old etsy shop Teekfashion.etsy.com. I was super excited. On another note life has been crazy . I am still preparing for the craft show in October and it just doesn't seem like there is enough hours in one day to get all the things I have lined up completed. I recently started knitting so I have a couple of scarves to put in my beppin.etsy shop soon. Other than that life has been pretty stable. I have been yaking it up with my aunts about our Halloween cruise next month. Ray seems like he is liking his job (the hour + commute is a killer though).

Peace out until later!

Crafty Thursday

2008-09-18T14:42:00.007-04:00

Yeah Thursday is finally here. Did you know that Thursday is the new Friday. Well, I have been trying to do a lot of chatting and blogging lately to promote my etsy shop. I don't think it has quite been working out like I anticipated seeing that I haven't sold anything yet. I will have to start devoting way more time into blogging and getting the Beppin name out there in the world. anyhow...here are a few of the new items that I created for the shop...hope you enjoy: