babe-a-gogo

Give Away Take Two!!!

2011-02-06T23:09:00.002-05:00

Give Away Alert!

$25 Gift Certificate

Let's have lots of participation - it's EASY!

Go to my Facebook page and "Like" it so that you can leave a comment telling me your favorite babe-a-gogo item found here: http://www.babeagogo.etsy.com/ or here: http://www.babe-a-gogo.com/

That's it!

If you are already a fan of my page, all you have to do it leave the comment stating your favorite item.

Want extra entries??? Post a picture of your littles wearing babe-a-gogo duds. People who have already posted pictures are getting an entry to start off with!

Contest ends Friday February 11.

Thanks so much!!!

Photo Contest

2011-01-02T15:22:00.003-05:00

Many of you have uploaded adorable pictures to my Facebook page, and I want to say thanks so much for doing so. Running an online business is sometimes a bit of an isolated process, and your feedback and pictures make my work very rewarding. So this is my way of giving back to you :)

The PRIZE: See edit below

The CONTEST:

1. Use the "Suggest to Friends" button up in the top left corner of my Facebook page. Spread the word about babe-a-gogo to your family and friends. They need to become fans of my page to vote. Tell them to "Like" my page and to vote for the photo you submitted.

2. Fans can then vote for their favorite photo by clicking on the "Like" button below the photo.

3. The winner is the person who has the photo with the most "Likes" from fans of my page. The winner will receive a $30 gift certificate to babe-a-gogo.

If you haven't already added a photo to my Facebook page you still have time. So get out there and snap some cute shots then spread the word :)

EDIT: This contest was not very well publicized. I think there was only one or two participants. (Those would be people who "liked" a photo submitted by fans.) So, I am offering a new contest. All those who submitted photos are entered in the new give away.

Thanks all!

Hello Again, Friends!

2010-11-27T15:50:00.001-05:00

It has a been a loooooooong time since I last posted. I thought I would you all know that I have moved over to Facebook with the rest of the world ;)

My Facebook Fan Page is here Please stop by and "Like" babe-a-gogo!

Also, for those of you who are into photography and editing, Florabella has a *FREE* set of beautiful cards. To go to the site and download them, click here.

Cookie Monster

2010-07-14T17:13:00.000-04:00

My daughter requested chocolate chip cookies this morning, and so we made them. After they cooled a bit I put one on the table for her and her older brother. They ate a few bites and were distracted by something in the family room, leaving their cookies behind. When Maddie returned she shrieked that her cookie was gone. I thought she just forgot that she had eaten it, but I should have known better. Two-year-olds rarely forget the whereabouts of their treats.

Inspection in the family room helped us solve the crime... Ryan's guilt was revealed as he turned and beamed at us with a chocolate covered little smile.

July is Flying By

2010-07-12T23:01:00.000-04:00

Whoa! Sorry for the loooong delay in posting anything, but I have been busy. Summer has taken on a life of its own, and I am loving it. I promised some family members I would update and post pics, so here they are.

I hope you are all enjoying the warm weather!

Happy Father's Day

2010-06-20T10:18:00.002-04:00

For my husband...
Without my amazing husband none of the this would be possible. Our kids adore him because he spends so much time with them and communicates with them on their level. He is patient and generous and loves them more than anything. We always wanted a big family, and we are thrilled to have four kids who make our lives fulfilling. I love him for being such a wonderful dad and partner.

For my dad...
My dad is the type of guy who can fix anything. Anything. Really. He is my go-to guy for any household (or otherwise) problem, and I still call him about once a month with some "emergency," with which is he always willing and able to help. Sometimes the emergencies are big and difficult to discuss, and other times I just need help getting the pool filter going. No matter what I can count on him for help. Thank GOD for that!

For all great dads everywhere...
HAPPY FATHER'S DAY

Secret Dahlia...

2010-06-15T22:22:00.001-04:00

The Easter bunny brought seeds earlier this spring and we promptly planted them indoors. They took off and we had hundreds of little sprouts within a couple of weeks. April then lulled us into believing it was warm enough to bring plants outside, and we lost mostly all of the little plants in a cold snap. Just a handful of dahlia plants made it, and now they are absolutely going bananas. Every day I check to see if they have opened... and these coy little buds are keeping quite tight lipped about their color. It was a "dwarf mix" pack of seeds, so I really don't know what to expect here. I cannot wait for them to bloom!

...And look at the funny little guy I caught swimming around...

Mad for Madras

2010-06-11T22:14:00.000-04:00

At long last I have three out of the four pairs of these shorts made for my kiddos. Jonathan's will be done tomorrow, but I am too tired tonight!

I LOVE DAD shirt

2010-06-08T23:34:00.000-04:00

And here is the matching shirt :) This was SO much fun to make. My daughter will soon have another patchwork skirt... once I get caught up on orders, that is...

Custom Made Skirt

2010-06-05T14:08:00.000-04:00

This is part of a custom order I am working on for special repeat customer. She has the best ideas! I will post the matching shirt when I complete it.

Into the Blue

2010-06-01T21:49:00.001-04:00

When we moved into our house we were thrilled that it had a swimming pool. I lived in a pool growing up and dreamed of having one of my own for my own family, so it was a selling point for us. Problem is that the liner really began fading in the past five years, and the with the constant sun it began to break down.

We budgeted money to replace the liner this summer, and here it is. I cannot tell you how stressful this seemingly simple choice was for our family. My husband had definite ideas about what color liner he wanted, and then there were other issues that arose from my expectations of the service. (I may or may not share them here.) However, I did want to share these especially cute pictures of some of my little ones enjoying their Daddy and their pool (and their new watering cans).

Six Pack for Babies

2010-05-30T18:51:00.003-04:00

Here is the six pack of bibs I made for my coworker and his wife who are expecting twin girls. This was so much fun. Almost makes me want another girl... almost.

PROJECT: Tea Quilt

2010-05-29T09:33:00.005-04:00

The domain of quilting is territory somewhat unexplored for me. I made two crib size quilts for my daughter when I found out that I was having a girl. I mean the DAY I found out I was having a girl. The sheer glee of sewing with pink inspired me to whip off a rag quilt and a minky backed quilt in a what seemed like no time. I just remember being so happy sewing those together knowing that my daughter would someday use them.

Okay - so what does that have to do with today? I have begun to piece a long queen size quilt. After a LOT of thought about design and color and pattern, which is ongoing, I chose Tina Givens' Tea Quilt pattern and a mix of some of my most favorite fabrics ever. Kaffe Fassett's Suzani in Red (below) is simply stunning - cannot imagine a prettier fabric - so I had to include it here. I also love Tina Givens' Heaven in the Oberon Red colorway and all of Anna Maria Horner's prints, but the Social Climber in gold (above) is to die for. Oh, and I almost forgot Amy Butler's Acanthus in Teal (not pictured here) - divine! I love it even more in olive, but that didn't work with the other prints I have chosen.

Yesteday I pieced and sewed three blocks and snapped pics this morning. I also realized that there is no way I will be able to machine quilt this baby - it's HUGE. Then again, maybe there is a way... I have to look into it more. The thought of hand quilting anything makes me want to run for the hills. I get antsy just thinking about sitting still that long!

P.S. A coworker and his wife are expecting twin girls - how adorable, right? I have been trying to figure out what to make for a shower gift. I think I have decided on a pile of bibs because I never really wanted to buy bibs myself, but babies definitely need them. Plus, I could make really pretty, girly bibs. I was going to use my pattern when I started thinking about quilted bibs I had seen on Etsy... I modified my pattern and gave machine quilting a shot with this bib. Let's just say I have a LOT to learn!!! Here is my first one.

Sprinkler Love

2010-05-25T21:32:00.002-04:00

If you have little ones and are looking for a way to entertain them in the sweltering heat, get this sprinkler. It is from Little Tikes, and it is really, really cool. My kids absolutely loved it and it was $10. Love that!

Crimson King Maple & Mulch

2010-05-16T19:55:00.003-04:00

Daddy & Maddox were hard at work this week! We've been wanting to get a Crimson King Maple for about 5 years, and now we have one.

He's ONE!!!

2010-05-12T21:30:00.000-04:00

As I was walking down the stairs today leaving work, I was thinking how thankful I am to not feel the way that I did one year ago. At that time I was in labor. In fact, I had been in labor pretty much all day at work. My classes were reading To Kill a Mockingbird, and I remember planting myself in a chair and reading Atticus's closing argument aloud to them while feeling increasingly regular twinges. The kids were on to me and were worried I was going to have the baby right there! I assured them this was not the case.

I headed to the doctor's office as soon as I got out of school and found out I was 6 cm dilated. Great, I thought... less work for me to do in active labor. This was no easy delivery, however. (It would turn out to be only the second most challenging one for me, actually.) Long story short, Ryan Matthew (over 22" long and nearly 9 lb.s) joined us hours later and has changed our lives for the better with his charming personality, sweet smile and bright blue eyes. We cannot get enough of this little guy!

Happy Mother's Day (Lots of Flowers)

2010-05-08T21:31:00.000-04:00

Happy Mother's Day, everyone!

Jonathan's Birthday!

2010-05-06T22:35:00.002-04:00

I really cannot believe that my first born has turned 11. If I close my eyes I can smell the hospital and feel the warmth of holding his little swaddled body shortly after he was born. It had been one hell of a delivery. (I didn't know it at the time, but it would take three subsequent v-bacs before I would fully understand why I needed this c-section... that is another story.)

After he was born his eyes were wide open - very alert and ready to take in the world around him. He still has those wide eyes, but my little boy is growing up fast. Here are some sweet memories from today.

Super Quick Post...

2010-04-21T16:03:00.001-04:00

Just a few quick shots of Maddox & Maddie :)

California Lounge Pants

2010-04-10T08:45:00.000-04:00

A very stylish customer of mine had her own ideas about lounge pant prints and mailed them to me. This is how the pants came out. I just love them! They totally have a laid back California feel to them, which is so cute for little boys.

Now I need to make some of these for my boys!!

Easter Sweets

2010-04-04T18:28:00.001-04:00

There could be no complaining about the weather around here over the past few days. In a word, it was heaven. Today was no exception, and the Easter egg hunt was a huge success. A good time was had by all! Hope you enjoyed your Easter weekend, too.

Cooper's Lounge Sets

2010-04-02T12:10:00.002-04:00

Finally I am caught up on orders!!! Yay! These little lounge sets are for a friend of mine who wanted a supply of jammies for her little boy, Cooper. The sun was cooperative today, and I was able to take some pictures outside. Spring is such a welcome change.

The Kleo Outfit

2010-03-20T08:55:00.000-04:00

This is the last of my Kleo fabric, and I am sad. I love this print so much, and I might just have to order more. So much for destashing and spring cleaning. The Kleo skirt just needed a little matching tee shirt, and here it is.

Meadowsweet Skirt Set

2010-03-13T14:21:00.000-05:00

My niece Sydney just turned six and her birthday party is tomorrow. Syd loves skirts and handmade items, so I had the perfect excuse to delve into my new Meadowsweet prints. I must say I LOVE these prints. Perhaps it is because I am longing for summer, or maybe they just remind me of a simpler time in my life. Whatever the reason, it was fun working with such beautiful fabrics.

Weekend Update

2010-03-07T19:07:00.001-05:00

My sewing machines have had a workout this weekend, and I have another sling order to fill tonight. I thought I would post a few quick pictures before I get to that, however. Have a great weekend!

Congratulations, Christina!

2010-03-01T18:15:00.001-05:00

Christina is the winner of our bib giveaway! Thanks so much for participating :)

sweet sound

2010-02-28T19:59:00.001-05:00

Tonight baby Ryan, who is now in his ninth month started enjoying Cheerios. Well, I say enjoying, but the truth is that they pose quite a challenge for him. Once he manages to get those chubby fingers around a little Cheerio and up to his mouth (usually more a result of the Cheerio sticking to his hand than his own dexterity) he chomps them.

This is when we hear those tiny front teeth making the tiniest, cutest, most charming little crunches. ADORABLE!
****

Quick - think of the sweetest sound in the world....

Tell me about it!

at last...The Party!!!

2010-02-27T23:50:00.002-05:00

Much to our dismay, Maddox started running a fever last Friday, the day before his planned birthday party, so we rescheduled the event. Earlier tonight family came over to celebrate his 4th birthday.

There is something about turning 4 that signals the end of babyhood and the certainty of childhood. As a mother, I find it a bit sobering. I suppose it is the "end" part that makes me sad, though there is so much to anticipate. It's a dotted line that marks where baby hugs and sweet little yawns, footed sleepers and faded blankets become toy cars and sleds, plastic dinosaurs and regular hair cuts... a boundary of sorts, and as I look back I see with bittersweet pride that Maddox has undeniably crossed it.

Thinking about all of this reminds me that I want to record each of the kids' birth stories. This is important to me, and I imagine that they will be interested in how they entered this world at some point, but I will save that for another day.

Enjoy the birthday pics :)

YUM! Best Pancakes!!!

2010-02-26T09:03:00.000-05:00

The snow has finally caught up with Central New York! Normally we have been buried in snow many times over by the time of year, but this year it has come a little late. That's fine with me. And it's more than fine with the kids who are thrilled with our second snow day in a row.

To celebrate I made Sandi Henderson's pancakes. I saw the recipe yesterday when I was looking over her blog and her GORGEOUS new collection of fabrics called Meadowsweet - I am in love!!! The only thing sweeter than those prints is the pancakes. Believe me, if you love comforting foods (and these would be good for dinner or late at night as well), then these are IT. Hands down. THE best.

Here is the recipe for the BEST pancakes!!! You will be glad you tried them.

Yum.

GIVEAWAY ALERT - FREE BIB!!!

2010-02-21T19:05:00.000-05:00

Because I would really like to invite you to check out the web site that I am currently updating and to come take a peek at my Etsy offerings as well as come back and check in here when you have a minute, I will be offering some FREE items! Here is what you need to do in order to enter the giveaway for a FREE babe-a-gogo minky bib:

1. Become a blog follower of this blog.

2. Add a comment to this blog entry.

3. Click here to access the Guest Book of my web site and leave a comment.

You may enter once through each different method, so you could be entered THREE times! On March 1, 2010, I will draw one name randomly and the winner will be announced here on the blog. I will contact you in order to get a shipping address and you will receive one free babe-a-gogo minky bib!

I would love to hear your thoughts on the whole babe-a-gogo line, the items I offer or items you would like to see offered in the future as well any other comments. Thanks so much for your participation!
-Kelley

Monkey, Sock Monkey

2010-02-21T12:36:00.000-05:00

My very talented mother made this sock monkey for Maddox's birthday, but Ryan has really taken a liking to him. Please excuse my amateur photography skills - I am really trying to learn and improve.

So I took the monkey and set him up for his photo shoot, and look who entered the scene. I couldn't really turn him away...

Happy Valentine's Day!

2010-02-13T17:18:00.001-05:00

I thought I would share these beautiful roses with all of you. My husband was *sweet* enough to COMPLETELY surprise me with them today when Fedex rang the door. I thought to myself, "What could this be? Did my mom send me flowers?" LOL... Nope. It was Brandon who knew I would never expect this. I love the thought that he put into them even more than the actual flowers.

They are stunning in person - gorgeous colors. I hope they brighten your day :)

...and the matching bib...

2010-02-07T10:32:00.000-05:00

New Olivia Skirt

2010-02-06T13:56:00.000-05:00

I made this tiny little skirt for a newborn baby girl on my mother's side of the family. The matching bib is a work in progress, but I wanted to share this while I had a few minutes. This would be so sweet for Easter.

Sandy's Gift Set

2010-02-06T13:44:00.000-05:00

This gift set was made up for my friend Sandy to give to her niece. Included here are two minky toddler blankets, three minky bibs, one pair of baby lounge pants in size 6-12 months, a custom taggie blanket and a GOAT... what a wonderful way to welcome a new little boy!

"Just wanted to add that this blue dimple dot minky is the plushest, softest stuff ever - I just love it! I have bought minky from many sources, but my favorite is fabric.com.

New Pants!

2010-01-31T17:01:00.001-05:00

Hi All,
Life has been speeding along, especially with Ryan on the move now. The three little ones are quite fond of each other and learning to share (when they are not ripping toys out of each other's hands). It has been difficult sneaking in any time to sew on top of orders from my web site or etsy shop, but Ryan took a long nap today - hooray!!! Here are some of the little items I pieced together recently. I have so many ideas and so, so little time...

I am finding that I want to update my web site and add on a limited line of children's clothing items... That will be my next venture. For now I have items listed on Etsy partially because it is easier to upload and modify listings, but my site will be my next project. I guess I am also tossing around the notion of a trunk show with all my samples. Hmmm.... If you have any suggestions I would love to hear them!

Valentine's Day Fleece Pullover

2010-01-09T14:55:00.000-05:00

Since my serger is still out of commission and in need of a visit to the shop, I decided to sew with snuggly fleece this weekend. I had a large piece of pink Valentine's day fleece that was just taking up room in my studio. My daughter has a blanket made out of the very same fabric, and she LOVES it. I figured I'd make a size 3 pullover. That way she would be able to use it this year and probably next year, too. The pattern I chose is Burda 9771, and it went together without a hitch. Sewing with fleece is so easy, sort of like baking with a cake mix...but I still miss my serger. Wah!

He's Crawling!!!

2010-01-08T16:58:00.000-05:00

Last night as the kids were watching that new Meatball movie and I was making a second batch of popcorn in the kitchen my husband called out my name with an excited lilt in his voice. I knew right away what it meant. Ryan was crawling! O.M.G.

In the last few days something has come over him. He arches his back and squirms all over the place, like he is doing RIGHT NOW. Since he weighs nearly 23 pounds at 7.5 months, manuevering his chubby, squirmy body takes some strength! I guess he has been bitten by the urge to m-o-v-e. In no time he will be chasing his big brothers and sister all over the place, and Mommy and Daddy will chasing close behind. Sounds like a weight loss plan to me!

The Serger Saga Continues...

2010-01-08T16:50:00.001-05:00

The serger is still out of commission. UGH! If my mom can't see a problem that I have missed, then it is going in for service on Monday.

Sergers - ugh!

2010-01-03T20:56:00.002-05:00

I come from a long line of crafters on both sides of my family. My first sewing machine wasa gift from my great Uncle Morley (on my father's side), who has since passed away. It was a Brother, and I still have it. He bought it to make himself curtains when he couldn't find any to suit his taste. When he heard about my interest in sewing he shipped the machine to me from Florida via UPS. I admire this creative take charge attitude and am thankful for his generosity.

Similarly, my first serger was a gift from Aunt Patsy (on my mother's side). It is a White, and though I have had it a relatively short time it has revolutionized my sewing options. Everything is finished with neat professional edges, and I love how it zips along.

Unlike the Brother sewing machine, however, the White serger is a *bit* intimidating, and though I may have craftiness in my genes, I do NOT have any natural-born serger knowledge. Admittedly, I have never even threaded my own serger! Never.

Well, today I decided I would try a decorative seam effect called a rolled hem, which required tinkering with the serger. Despite my efforts in this battle, the serger won. I was defeated. The the serger needs to be rethreaded. I think I would rather shoot one of my toes than to rethread this machine, if that explains my level of anxiety.

In any case, I am going to try and try and try until I succeed. And then I am going to get another serger because I want another one. The additional serger I will keep set up and ready to go for decorative stitches or colored threads or whatever. I just have to figure out how to finance this next plan.

Please wish me luck with rethreading!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-02T08:19:00.000-05:00

There has been so much going on recently that I have not been posting much, and I keep thinking of things that I would like to share here. So I am stealing a few minutes here to update.

First of all, I want to wish everyone a Happy and Healthy New Year!

Second, I am updating a few pictures of projects that I have completed.

Enjoy!

Fireman Lounge Set

2009-12-21T21:45:00.000-05:00

My nephew just turned four on December 10, and I made him this lounge set. I have been practicing getting my zigzag really neat, and I am finding it very enjoyable. I love making these little sets, especially for boys. There so many cute boutique-y girl outfits out there, and it is really nice to have unique and special boy clothes that aren't overdone or fussy. These fit the bill, and I am scrambling to make another set for Maddox who has requested "choo choo trains" for his next pair.

Just one more pic...

2009-12-20T15:59:00.000-05:00

I absolutely love this hat. I will be making more for sure. Thankfully, I have a little girl to sew for (and many others in my family) :)

The Whole Kit & Kaboodle

2009-12-20T15:38:00.001-05:00

Well, here it is! All the pieces except for the Polly Pocket dolls that I bought to be toted stylishly in the little purse. I need a decorative dress form to display these items, Santa!

Happy Holidays!

2009-12-19T14:59:00.001-05:00

Perhaps because I have been staying up all hours of the night sewing, or perhaps because any moment in which I am not nursing or holding my youngest baby I am at my sewing machine. Whatever the reason, and there are many possibilities here, my husband has taken to calling me "Stitches." I have not been posting as much here because I am not really sure that anyone reads this and I have been sewing up a storm. Thankfully, my little business is doing fairly well. This has helped tremendously in terms of our Christmas. I do appreciate all my customers SO much!

For my own family, I have been sewing as many gifts as I can. I can't show them here because, well, I guess they might check my blog on occasion. However, I have to show off this little set I made for my niece. It is not quite done - I have to make an applique tee to match. The pieces I have completed so far are so sweet, though. I will be making another one of these for my own daughter and will likely add the items to my etsy shop in case anyone else out there is interested.

She's TWO! (Party Scenes)

2009-11-23T18:33:00.000-05:00

As much as I tried to remind myself that the most important thing about my daughter's birthday was spending time with her, the urge to bake a special little girl cake just for her overcame me. My plans to simply make a display of cupcakes were set aside, and I turned to parenting.com for cake ideas. There was a pretty butterfly cake decorated with candy, and I gave it a shot. It was more work than I had anticipated. Although I thoroughly enjoy baking, I do not thoroughly enjoy what seems to me to be rather tedious decorating. In the end I was glad I had put forth effort, though, because all the kids at the party couldn't wait to get a special piece decorated with candies.

Sling & Swing

2009-11-11T14:29:00.000-05:00

Here is the little crew out for a swing. Ryan is in tow in the sling, of course!

Little Van Gogh

2009-11-08T15:15:00.000-05:00

Maddie, like her big brother, loves painting these days. In hopes of saving some of her little shirts I made her a quick smock. This one is from Simplicity 3802 and it is really simple. The only change I made is using 1/2" bias tape rather than 1/4". I just used what I had on hand, and I thought the 1/4" might be a bit of a pain to work with.

Let's hope all those starry, starry night-esque swirls hide the messier side of her creative little endeavors.

Stars in Alignment???

2009-11-08T15:09:00.000-05:00

Somehow all three little boogers are sleeping at the same time, and I AM (child) FREE!!! It is a gorgeous November day - the temperature has to be near 60. We all went for a walk earlier and the chicken noodle soup is cooking. I just wanted to take a few minutes for a quick update since Ryan is nearing his 6 month mark - yikes. Somebody stop this train!

She's Almost 2!

2009-11-07T15:37:00.000-05:00

Mention her birthday and a myriad of images of the last two years flashes through my mind. One of my favorites is the memory of holding her in the hospital with a feeling of utter bliss and relief. Hers was a fast and furious delivery - in retrospect it was my easiest, though "easy" is but a relative term here. The labor was 100% natural - ouch. On the other hand, I was supremely proud of that fact, and the euphoria that followed the traumatic event remains unparalled. I finally had my little girl, and my body did what it was supposed to do. But, this post was not supposed to be about me...

Little Madeleine is quite a chatterbox. She counts to ten and beyond, sings Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star as her big brother practices it on trombone - I have never seen or heard a cuter duet! She also sings the alphabet and has added in the word "Ryan" as one of the letters. (I find this precious as I added a "KH" to my alphabet at about the same age and then insisted my younger brother sing it the same way.) She has also picked up the word "stupid" from Sponge Bob. Of course she knows when to use it as well. Today, for example, when she couldn't get her leggings on she threw them on the floor and said, "Stupid, stupid pants." What can you do?

I will be turning my kitchen in a cupcake bakery next weekend and having the whole family over. I am really looking forward to all the festivities, and I am glad she is turning two. Mostly, though, I am thankful to have so many wonderful memories already.

Goats!!!

2009-11-06T15:40:00.000-05:00

I can't really say why I love these little goats so much. Maybe it's because they remind me of my childhood fascination with Hello Kitty. Whatever the reason, I find it a bit funny that these are the only "kids" I will be adding to my family.

Mixing different prints and making a soft and safe toy is fun, and the pattern is really easy to make. I purcahsed it from a seller on Etsy. There is a bit of a learning curve to these for me because I have never free hand embroidered little faces like this, so please don't look too closely at them. It's my first time stuffing goat arms and legs, too.

Halloween Bits

2009-11-01T14:51:00.000-05:00

Halloween was so much fun this year. I think the pictures speak for themselves!

Jennifer's Bag

2009-11-01T14:46:00.000-05:00

My friend Jennifer asked me to make her a bag, and she picked out this fabric from Amy Butler. It was a bit more challenging working with such a geometric print, but I am pleased with it (and I hope she is, too).

The Overachiever Bag

2009-10-25T14:54:00.000-04:00

Because I lug a lot of stuff back and forth between school and home (nursing bottles and paraphenalia, my lunch, piles of essays, etc.), I decided to sew a BIG bag for myself. This one is made from Joel Dewberry's Ginseng fabric in a shade of celery. The inside is a super luxe cotton sateen in hot pink. I interfaced the whole thing inside and out.

Although I was a bit hesitant about the LARGE size, I tested it out by filling it up with my stuff, and it pleases me :)

It measures roughly 16" wide at the bottom 14" wide at the top, 17" tall and is mitered for 3.5" of depth. I also gave it some roomy pockets (for snacks) and a key fob, so I can get my classroom door open quickly without digging through my bag for keys.

Denim Bags

2009-10-18T14:29:00.000-04:00

For my mom's birthday I decided to make a bag. I wanted to use really special material, but by the time I found the perfect print for her - one of Joel Dewberry's Ginseng prints - I was afraid that it wouldn't arrive in time. So, I used this beautiful dark denim and a really pretty olive & navy print that I had earmarked for an outfit for my daughter. I still have enough fabric to make the outfit for her, too.

Making the purse for my mom inspired another idea for a denim bag. I wanted to use vibrant squares and quilt them along the top band of the purse. Red stitching and wide offset handles give the purse a bit of a funky look. Here is how they turned out.

The Dewberry fabric arrived the day after I made the denim bag for my mom, of course! Now I am trying to figure out what to do with it.

Jumping in the Leaves!

2009-10-11T13:27:00.000-04:00

Just a quick update here... Maddie has a new fall swing jacket. My mom found the perfect button for it, and I was able to squeeze in the time to hem it and finish it before it's too cold to wear it - yay!

Pumpkin Patch Fun!

2009-10-11T12:20:00.001-04:00

We carved out a bit of time this weekend to take the little ones to the pumpkin patch this weekend (pun intended). Maddie LOVED the pumpkins. I think she would have stayed in the patch all day just trying to pick them up and sit on them. Good thing she wore her boots.

Ryan & I waited outside the corn maze while Daddy ventured through the mud with the toddlers. Upon exiting, Maddox (insightfully) announced that they couldn't get back to where they had started from so they had to find a new way out... Quite a life lesson for a three-year-old, I thought. Who knew he'd be a little philosopher? Maybe Ryan will have to let him borrow his wise owl hat.

Charlotte's Bag

2009-09-02T19:12:00.000-04:00

Recently, I had lunch with the best English teacher that I ever had. She has quite an energetic flair for teaching writing and a style all her own, but her students love her because she genuinely cares about them. Her name is Charlotte, and she continues to be an inspiration to me. As a special thank you, I made her this bag. She has retired but is going back to school to fill in for a maternity leave. I wish her well, and I hope she loves her new bag!

Halloween Stuff!

2009-08-20T15:42:00.001-04:00

What ISN'T fun about Halloween? I have been loving the whole creative crafting process using fun/bright/teeny bit tacky/spirited Halloween prints. It all started with eco-friendly Halloween candy bags for my kids... then I wanted to make Halloween jammies... then skirts with matching tees.

What's next? I am not sure, but I have lots of time between now and then for more ideas to *creep* up...

Taking pictures of my daughter in the whole getup is an entirely different adventure. She loves to run and jump (or "salta" for Dora fans) and basically avoid staying still at any cost - wonder where she gets that from ;) It does make for blurry pictures in low light, but so what.

Beachin' It!

2009-08-15T16:20:00.000-04:00

On our trip to the beach the little people (3 years old and under) outnumbered us, which made for a busy day. But like all of summer's gifts, it was fun while it lasted. We all had a blast!

My Sunshine

2009-08-14T18:20:00.001-04:00

I have been absent from posting lately mainly because I have been, um, occupied with enjoying my family and the summertime. Hard to believe, but this little guy rounded the 3-month corner just a few days ago, and I absolutely love him more each and every day. He loves counting on his fingers; he is a genius (of course). Anyone who talks to him is rewarded with huge smiles and little dimples. The only thing bigger than his smile in the morning is his hair ;) Here is a little bit of my summer sunshine - enjoy.

The Dresses Are Coming!

2009-07-12T21:47:00.000-04:00

I am so excited to say that I have actually listed a dress in my etsy shop. It sounds like a simple task. Actually, listing it is a pretty simple task, but it felt like a big accomplishment for me because I have wanted to do it for so long. This particular fabric is one of my all time favorites. The citron/pistachio with pink and brown is such a pretty combination - so feminine. My little model had designs on going swimming, so I had to shoot f-a-s-t. Luckily, I got a few quick shots.

Finally!

2009-06-30T17:13:00.003-04:00

I have had this dress planned in my head for a few weeks and finally got the time to sew it into being. Here it is!

Happy Baby!

2009-06-29T15:02:00.001-04:00

Things have been pretty busy around here lately and my family is keeping me very busy. Thie little guy is up to about 13 pounds at 6 weeks and is into his brothers' 6-12 month hand me downs! He is so long and totally reminds me of my first born who weighed 20 pounds at 4 months.

I have been thoroughly enjoying this new little bundle. Maybe it's because I know he is my last or maybe it's because he is just the sweetest little pea ever but I just cannot get over him. Just look at his little smile - it's love!

Snuck This One In Today!

2009-06-19T19:44:00.000-04:00

This is just your basic pillowcase dress, and I added my own bias tape to the arms. I will be making more of these when time permits!

Fiesta Dress!

2009-06-15T18:23:00.000-04:00

Okay - one last post while Ryan is napping. I made this dress in a size 3 for my dd for next year. It is a bit big on her, but I had to try it on her while the sun was shining :) The print (and her smile) just makes me smile - hope it does the same for you!

Toy Treasure Chest

2009-06-15T18:10:00.000-04:00

With three kids aged three and under, there are many toys around here. We needed an industrial sized toy chest. I knew just the person to go to - my dad. He can pretty much make anything out of wood. He finished the downstairs of the house I grew up in, added on a screened-in porch, and built my childhood toy chest and doll house (complete with individual shingles and stained hardwood floors). Needless to say, I knew he would do a beautiful job. And he did! Thanks so much, Dad!!! We love our new treasure-toy chest!

Balloons!

2009-06-15T18:07:00.001-04:00

My husband decided to take Maddox to see the balloons launch, and they had a great time. They managed to snap some great shots, too.

All is Well

2009-06-15T17:50:00.000-04:00

I cannot believe that Ryan is over a month old now. He is really filling out and is off the doctor's charts for his length, which is likely because he eats all the time. Just like his big brothers he is a great nurser. I don't even bother timing when I nurse anymore, but I know he is not quite making every 2 hours. He will go for one 3-4 hour stretch at night though, and I am loving that. It is also nice not having to get up at 5:30 to go to work ;)

Ryan is quite content and takes blissful naps throughout the day. We could not have asked for a sweeter little guy, and we're totally in love with him.

Losing Baby Weight (sort of)

2009-06-02T15:50:00.000-04:00

Losing baby weight isn't something I ever really put a ton of energy into. It seems that nursing and chasing after the other kids is usually enough to help me get back to pre-pregnancy weight (thankfully). With each pregnancy, however, I have a slight nagging fear that this time will be different and I won't ever be able to get back to feeling like myself.

It has now been three weeks - hard to believe that I was on my way to the hospital at this time less than a month ago. I have dropped about 22 pounds, but my favorite jeans will remain untouched for a while. In the meantime, I made some peanut butter chocolate chip cookies - LOL. They are one of my favorites, and I like them almost as much as my skinny jeans ;)

Tween A-Line Dress - McCall's 5419

2009-05-29T14:28:00.000-04:00

This dress has grown on me. I wanted a simple style dress that would not compete with the retro-ish large floral print, but after making this I wondered if it was too plain. After looking at it in my little sewing studio for about a week I have decided that I like the simplicity of it. It is an easy, summery, feminine dress that I think will look really pretty on my niece. She loves yellow and is quite tall for her age. I will give this to her in June.

Top to Match the Twirly Skirt

2009-05-29T14:16:00.000-04:00

It took me a long time to figure out the type of top I wanted to make to match this skirt (see this link for the original post on the skirt: (http://babeagogo.blogspot.com/2009/04/serious-nesting-lined-twirly-skirt.html). Ideally, I wanted a cotton gauze shirt, but I couldn't find the pattern I wanted in time. (I finally did find one, but it was too late.) I am still not sure I am 100% pleased with this one - I will have to see my niece try it on.

Emily's Gift - Tween Skirt & Tank

2009-05-27T21:21:00.001-04:00

Making cute little outfits for toddlers and girls is rather fun for me, but trying to make clothes for slightly older tweens is a bit more daunting. Not wanting to back down from a creative challenge, however, I kept looking for a cute skirt pattern to make for the older girls I know. This one is really cute, I think. I hope that Emily likes it.

Holland's Outfit

2009-05-24T11:48:00.000-04:00

This was so much fun to make! My aunt asked me to make a skirt for her grandaughter, Holland. She said that Holland loves pink, and then pretty much gave me free reign to pick out the prints, etc. I absolutely love these Farmer's Market prints from Sandi Henderson. They look fresh-picked and are perfectly girly.

Ryan Loves his Sling!

2009-05-21T16:27:00.000-04:00

The little one loves being carried in his sling, which is great for everyone. I can load up the stroller with the other kiddos, put him in the sling and get out to enjoy this beautiful weather.

Proud Papa & Baby Giraffe

2009-05-17T15:16:00.000-04:00

This little pod is really the sweetest thing for a newborn baby. My mom crocheted it for us. She said it was very easy to make. The hat is just a teensy bit too small on my son, but that is because all of my kids have large heads - lucky me ;p

He is here!

2009-05-13T15:37:00.001-04:00

Welcome, Ryan Matthew

8lbs, 13oz, 22"

May 12, 2009

FRUSTRATION!

2009-05-03T19:49:00.000-04:00

If frustration and anger could trigger labor, I would have had this baby after trying to make this pattern! It looks simple enough, and it really is for the most part. The tricky part is that the directions leave out a critical photo/drawing of how to pin the neck band to the yoke. UGH! I hate wasting my time. Further complicating matters is the fact that the directions tell you to pin and sew it in the opposite way that I would. As a result, this dress is nowhere near perfect, but it is good enough for yard play. My daughter gave it a test run, and it worked out just fine!

Serious Nesting & Lined Twirly Skirt

2009-04-18T22:45:00.000-04:00

May is going to be a very busy month, so I am trying to get as many things done before this baby arrives as possible. There is serious nesting going on today, and my little sewing studio has seen a great deal of spring cleaning. Look for upcoming sales on etsy and at my web site very soon.

Another project that I have at least partially taken care of is one of my niece's birthday presents. She loves twirly skirts, and this one fits the bill - I hope! It is the first lined skirt that ever made, and I am hooked. They are just so full and cute. I think a little breezy, gauze peasant top in ivory would be precious with this... Hmmmm....

Happy Camper Number Two

2009-04-17T14:00:00.000-04:00

I realized that my son really needed some new lounge/pajama pants. Since I have been spending SO much of my sewing time devoted to girly things, I decided to sew this together for him. These little campers are just so simple and cute. They remind me of a simpler time, and I love the softness of the sueded cotton - perfect for jammies.

Chocolate Bliss

2009-04-16T14:00:00.000-04:00

When I saw this new Kyoko pattern from Patty Young for Modkids I knew that I absolutely had to have it. I have a soft spot for designs with Asian flare, and this one I found absolutely irresistible. It took me longer to pick out the fabrics for the dress than it took to sew it together (and that was no short period of time), but I am thrilled with the results. I know is is tad busy, but I don't think it is too over the top.

I highly recommend the pattern to anyone who is a beginner to intermediate sewer. It takes a long time (3-5ish hours?) to put the dress together, in my opinion, but the instructions are very clear. The only parts that gave me a bit of trouble were figuring out how to attach the sleeve and keeping the ribbon from getting caught in the seam of the obi sash, but those difficulties may have been as much a result of my own fatigue as anything.

I have never made my own bias tape before, and it is more work than I had anticipated, but it adds so much to the outfit. When I was making it I was thinking to myself, "never again!" When I was attaching it to the actual dress, however, I kept thinking, "Wow - this is gorgeous!" And, again, the instructions for doing this were crystal clear, which is so nice. Anyone who sews can appreciate the value of clear and concise directions.

Thanks so much to Patty Young for designing such a beautiful pattern! I cannot wait to make more of these.

Easter Outfit

2009-04-11T13:27:00.000-04:00

The outfit I had planned on making for my daughter turned out WAY too big, so I pulled out this skirt, which I made months ago. I needed a shirt for her in a hurry, and while I could have appliqued a matching shirt, I decided to try a little peasant top. This was my first attempt at shirring, and it was really quite easy. I learned quickly to make sure the elastic thread is long BEFORE you begin so that you can tie it off after you are done stitching, but their was hardly any learning curve to it. It is really fun for a quick project.

Vintage Spring Coat & Bonnet

2009-04-08T19:13:00.000-04:00

This sweet little jacket and hat was actually mine. (Does that make me vintage - eeeek?) My mom made it for me when I was not quite a year old! She kept it all these years and now it fits my little sweetie. We are so pleased :)

2009-04-08T19:08:00.001-04:00

There are so many things going on right now, but I managed to take some pictures off my camera and upload them in just a few minutes.

Happy Campers!

2009-03-28T11:06:00.000-04:00

This print is so sweet, and I just loved the idea of using it to make a retro-ish pinafore top and ruffle bloomers to match. I only wish the weather was right so that I could get pictures outside!

First Knot Dress

2009-03-21T22:02:00.000-04:00

I have stashed away a few yards of these beautiful prints especially for clothes for my daughter, and here is the first piece. It is a knot dress that I made during her nap today. Overall, I am pleased with it and can't wait to make a matching diaper cover to go underneath.

If you would like to make a similar dress, Lori Lynn Designs offers a pattern that is excellent. Here is the link to her etsy shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6422249

...and the matching shirt :)

2009-03-16T22:34:00.001-04:00

I wish I could wait until daylight for good pictures, but this will have to do for now. The little shirt is finished, and I wanted to add it right away. Now the gift is all wrapped and ready to go!

Airplane Pants Take Flight

2009-03-15T10:25:00.000-04:00

The second project I am posting this weekend (so far) is a gift. A friend asked me to make these pants to give to her first grandson, who will be turning a year this spring. They are so incredibly cute that I am definitely going to make a pair for baby #4! I love how they can be worn for a long time because the cuff can be folded up or worn down. When I put the effort into sewing special items, I want the little ones to be able to wear them for a long time :)

Her Crochet Beanie

2009-03-15T10:20:00.001-04:00

The first project I am adding this weekend is from my mom. She is the one who taught me to sew, and she loves to crochet and knit as well. Growing up, she sewed all our outfits at the dining table and made us hats, scarves & mittens for the winter. She wants to teach me how to crochet and knit, but I am not ready yet. I still have way too many sewing projects that inspire me! Maybe next year...

Here is the beautiful hat that she crocheted for my daughter. I LOVE it!!! I bought the pattern from a very talented etsy seller, whose shop can be found at: http://www.thnkdfrent.etsy.com/

Pinafore & Pants

2009-03-07T14:21:00.000-05:00

Well, another little project is out of the way. Actually, a couple of projects are out of the way, but I only have pictures of this one. It is for a friend's niece. My friend picked out the fabrics, and I sewed it all together. It was fun, and I can't wait to see it on!

She likes it! Happy Birthday!

2009-03-01T17:56:00.001-05:00

...and the matching purse!

2009-02-28T21:58:00.001-05:00

Okay - this is it for the gift! I couldn't pass on the idea of having a little matching purse - just too sweet. Can't wait to give this to her tomorrow :)

The Matching Shirt!

2009-02-28T16:17:00.000-05:00

I am so excited about this little outfit, and I hope my niece loves it! I am supposed to be working on my thesis, but it is so sunny here I just had to sneak away for a little while. Creating this was so much fun. I will definitely be doing more appliqueing soon :)

Hello!

2009-02-25T19:27:00.000-05:00

I have been looking for the perfect place to work on a blog, and I hope this is it. I have a small shop on etsy and a little online boutique that sells baby items.

This will be a place for me to post pictures of my newest projects to share with all of you :) The one pictured to the left here is a birthday gift for my niece, but I *love* it so much that I will be making one for my little girl, too.

My family and I are expecting a fourth child this spring, and I will be posting our progress, too. We are very excited to welcome our last little one into the world.

Thanks for stopping by!