Cream & Cotton

Teal We Meet Again swap

2011-09-28T08:31:00.003-04:00

A few months ago I hosted my first ever Swap, A Blockwork Orange. Well it was such a hit and I had so much fun both hosting & participating, I've decided to host another one!

Teal We Meet Again

We will be making cross blocks (or plus blocks or you+me blocks, whatever your name of choice is!) in modern teal, red and white fabrics.

I absolutely love the color scheme, and these blocks have been on my "must try" list for quite some time.

Sign ups are open through this week (until October 2nd) and all blocks must be sent in by October 29th. If you are interested we'd love to have you join us! You can send in anywhere from 5 to... 500 blocks! (Please, for my own sanity, don't send in 500. Please)

Some members of the swap have already dove in and got to work!

Dumbo's & Daisies quilt

2011-03-29T10:38:00.001-04:00

I snuck in a little time this past weekend to finish up another baby quilt! I absolutely love the bright fuchsias and limes of this one, and the little elephants are too cute!

(back)

It measures about 48" x 30", the perfect size for a little lady or a baby quilt!
If you're interested, this little bundle of adorable cuddliness is available for $135!

All of my quilts are completely washable and made to be used... they can hold up to baby stains, everyday use and washings!

Like the quilt but not the fabrics? Check out some of my others here... I do make custom one's also!

A Blockwork Orange

2011-03-18T11:57:00.005-04:00

As if I don't have enough going on, I up and decided I wanted to be in a modern block swap a few weeks ago.

When I didn't come across any with openings, I created my own!

Thus, A Blockwork Orange was born.

We have 29 members and are making Crazy Nine Patch blocks using Oh! Fransson's tutorial. It's a lot of fun so far, and I've already begun to receive packages from ladies who got done super early!

Everyone is using the yummiest orange fabrics and it's really getting me in the mood for spring!

Here are a few more pictures of completed blocks that I've pulled from our Flickr Photo Pool...

Aren't they looking awesome?!

Everyone is creating blocks in sets of 9 (as the tutorial demonstrates) and sending them in, once I get everyone's blocks I will send back the same amount of blocks but from a bunch of different sewists!

Who knew there were so many different orange fabrics?!

Fussy Cut Bee _ October block for Jane

2010-12-02T09:27:00.001-05:00

Fussy Cut Bee _ October block for Jane, originally uploaded by Cream & Cotton | Chelsea.

Jane sent out a gorgeous variety of plum, magenta and gray fabrics with her twin girls in mind. She asked for a "Drunk Love" style of blocks featuring the cute little fussy-cut storybook girl somewhere in there!

I really can't wait to see how this quilt turns out!

Sew Fun 2 Bee _ September for Locodowo

2010-12-02T09:20:00.001-05:00

Sew Fun 2 Bee _ September for Locodowo, originally uploaded by Cream & Cotton | Chelsea.

I know I haven't posted in a while. Between buying a home and renovating, adding to my sewing blog let alone really accomplishing anything craft related in general has sort-of fallen to the wayside!

So, I'm playing catch-up now!

Lauree sent out a package of lovely orange and gray blocks and requested we create Map of the States blocks.

This was my first time ever paper piecing a block, it was a incredibly intimidating! However once I got started it really wasn't that bad at all. I think I'd like to attempt it again in the future!

Pretty in Pink Bee - November block for Amy

2010-12-02T09:16:00.001-05:00

Pretty in Pink Bee - November block for Amy, originally uploaded by Cream & Cotton | Chelsea.

November was Amy's month and she requested house blocks. She sent out the cutest variety of bright fabrics!

I created this adobe style home with some hot pink bushes! It originally started out as a row-home (think: San Francisco) but hey... planning never was my forte!

I am loving all the house quilts I'm seeing online!

Pretty in Pink Bee _ September

2010-09-17T08:13:00.000-04:00

September was Lisa's month in the Pretty in Pink Bee with her only request being that we create a 10.5"x10.5" block with a "string" theme.

As soon as I looked at her mix of pink prints & solids I knew what direction I wanted to go.

This what I came up with. I want a whole quilt of blocks like this now!

Dumbos & Daisies

2010-08-19T09:24:00.000-04:00

I've been saying for months that I want to get a couple quilts made up and start an Etsy store. I love making custom quilts, but sometimes it's just fun to work at your own pace using whatever inspires you.

That's what this Dumbos & Daisies quilt is, just some fun fabric that turned into an adorable little girl quilt.

It measures 41" x 48" and is made up of a combination of Joel Dewberry, Moda and other designer fabrics, and Kona cotton solids. I just have to add binding and this little cutie will be ready to go to a new home!

A few more bee blocks

2010-08-03T08:58:00.000-04:00

Sunday was a little gloomy and chilly out, so I spent most of the day in the sewing room! After many failed attempts my mom & I got a dvd player hooked up to the TV in there so we happily watched a few movies and seasons of Will & Grace and sewed our little hearts out.

August is Becky's month in the Fussy Cut Bee,

She sent out the MunkiMunki kitty fabric and a load of Anna Maria Horner in colors I love! I really can't wait to see the finished product in this one - the blocks are all going to be so fun!

These two blocks are for Angela for the Pretty in Pink Bee

She is working on a quilt for her niece and (smart girl) decided to request the quarter log cabin blocks for her month in the bee. I hope her niece loves it, I think it will turn out super cute!

I also had a chance to finish quilting an something I started a long, long time ago

This was one of the first quilt tops I made, all Amy Butler fabrics and a white flowered fabric (before I discovered Kona solids!) I did straight line quilting, and silly me forgot to take a picture. Maybe I'll wait until the binding is done for the big reveal...

Take that Trudy!

2010-07-29T09:16:00.001-04:00

A lovely quilter friend of mine, Lucia, sent out a call to action last week in an effort to sooth her friend Errick who is battling a cancerous tumor that he has so gallantly named Trudy. You can find out more about Trudy's Arse Kicking quilt here.

She is collecting blocks from sew-er's all over the states (and even across the ponds) to assemble a quilt to give to Errick as he fights Trudy. I think it's an awesome that she's organized this, and even more amazing how many lovely ladies across the country have stepped up and made a block or two (or twenty-one as I just saw in the Flickr pool!)

I whipped up a couple blocks last night, and it was quite a struggle! I came to the realization that I just don't have any manly fabrics in my stash!! All of my blue's are light blues and girly, and the only grays I have are solid Kona's!

Oh well, I used what I could fine (including some Tula Pink Nest!) and am sending these off today to Lucia or tomorrow.

Update your readers!

2010-07-23T08:42:00.000-04:00

Hey lovelies! Just wanted to post a reminder that my personal blog has moved to Hello Miss Chelsea - please join me over there!

This blog will slowly but surely becoming a craft blog - please feel free to remain a follower here too but I won't be posting many personal goodies here, just the nitty gritty! =)

Sew Fun 2 blocks

2010-07-21T21:04:00.001-04:00

July was my month in the Sew Fun 2 Bee, I sent out an assortment of purples, pinks, browns, light greens and yellow fabrics and requested quarter square wonky log cabins (although I've heard them referred to as wonky quarter bento blocks too)

This was my inspiration-

And these were the packages I sent out

Here's the example block I made

Ready to see some of the goodies I've got en route to my mailbox??

Aren't they fantastic? At first the colors worried me a bit - greens, purples and browns aren't usually at the top of my "go-to" list but I really love the way they are playing against each other in these blocks!

Caribbean Cake Island preview

2010-07-21T10:50:00.000-04:00

I'm now writing at www.hellomisschelsea.blogspot.com!

Want to see what this is all about?

Come over to my new blog (I will no longer be writing daily posts on this one!)

A little spring cleaning

2010-07-20T15:04:00.001-04:00

Oh wait, it's summer isn't it. Well I've been debating this since early spring!

My personal blog is on the move!

Come visit (and re-follow me!) at www.hellomisschelsea.blogspot.com

As I am working to grow my quilt business, I will be using this space for what I orignally intended it for - just that.... all things creative and crafty!

I would of course be delighted if you left Cream & Cotton on your blog roll, you will find many more inspiration and crafty posts in the coming months, however if you only want the "fun" stuff, I will understand!

(PS Cut me some slack, the new site isn't QUITE up to par, I'm still working on getting the template and all my sidebar goodies transferred over)

Publish Post

My mother likes to taunt me

2010-07-19T14:18:00.000-04:00

by sending pictures like this all day long on Mondays (when she babysits my sweet niece)

Cake ball a trois

2010-06-17T18:55:00.001-04:00

A friend of the family asked me to make cake balls for her daughters graduation open house this weekend, sweetening the offer with the promise of cash. Baking for money? Sign me up!

Dressed in my best Betty Crocker get-up, I've spent my afternoon baking cakes. My kitchen is hotter than a bad word and I'm quite tired of mooshing icing into cake crumbs. And sadly, I'm not even halfway done!

I'm making lemon cake balls which will be dipped in white chocolate, red velvet with cream cheese icing that will be dipped in chocolate, chocolate with cherry icing to be dipped in chocolate and also Oreo balls (dipped in white chocolate).

I've got balls that are rolled out,

balls that are still in the smooshed stage

and balls that don't even know they're going to become balls!

Lord help me! I'm all caked out. This is requiring more energy than my sick-self has exerted all week long.

PS I'm battling day 8 of summer illness =/ Thanks for all the kind words, it has started to fade off, but still frustratingly enough graced me with a throbbing head and swollen tonsils all day today.

Ugh

2010-06-15T15:06:00.000-04:00

Dear invisible friends,
Meet my new partner in crime-

We've been spending a lot of time together lately.

Lovey Dovey quilt

2010-06-09T08:04:00.001-04:00

I just realized I never showed a finished picture of the Lovey Dovey quilt I mentioned back in February...

we had a bright (bright!) sunshiney day so I sweet-talked Chris into being my human quilt rack while I took some pictures!

Here's a sneak peak at another that I'm working on too...

Lil' Miss Sassy

2010-06-03T17:47:00.001-04:00

Every baby needs a cute, cozy quilt!

And if that baby is growin inside of a fellow coworker of mine then it only makes sense for me to make them one as a gift! If you're new(er) to my blog you may have missed out on the Lil Zoo Boo and the Cindy Loo Who quilt which have gone to live with their wee little owners this past year (and apparently they are being used quite a bit judging by the amount of pictures i've seen on Facebook with these lil blankies lurkin in the background!)

This week I finished up another one, for a little girl of one of my sales reps. She was actually due this past Sunday and thank goodness she hasn't gone into labor or anything yet so I had a chance to finish it up and get it to her before her lil miss makes her grand debut.

I'm calling this one the Lil' Miss Sassy quilt... those are some intense, bold colors for a baby quilt... and I LOVE it! If this baby girl is anything like her momma, she will be one sassy chick!

I apologize for the poor quality photos. These are actually before I even finished the quilt, taken on my iPhone. I took good ones on my camera last night but they somehow disappeared (I'm quite sad because the quilt is with a fellow coworker to be given to the preggo tomorrow because I won't see her!)

PS Thanks all for your sweet, sweet words yesterday! I spent yesterday sewing and that always helps to clear my head and cheer me up!

Four words....

2010-06-01T10:04:00.001-04:00

Waste. of. an. outfit.

(Will share more later, swamped at work right now!)

Double Duty Decor

2010-05-25T13:04:00.003-04:00

Shortly after Olivia was born, my sis-in-love had mentioned getting letters to spell out her name to go over her crib. Of course, I took this as "Perfect opportunity to get crafty and surprise the new mama & papa with some decor for the little miss!"

So I took six 5"x5" canvases from JoAnn's and painted them each with a fun little pattern in colors that coordinated with her bedding. I let these little puppies dry, then took a dark brown/almost black paint (same color as the crib & other furniture in her room) and wrote her name on them, one letter per canvas.

Earlier this week they surprised me with this photo from Livy's 3month photo session. I guess my wall decor plays double duty as photo props!

Heaven is bringing its angel baby home

2010-05-21T09:21:00.002-04:00

Today Heaven is taking an angel home. Sweet Amelia Grace's path is unfolding differently than we had all been hoping and praying, but she will be in a better place.

Amelia's family has been close with our family for as long as I can remember, her mom and my brother grew up together and Amelia's grandma and my mom were friends for even longer. Tori announced her pregnancy shortly after Brandin & Courtney announced there's, and the anticipation of a third generation of friends bustled.

Heart-breakingly, it was announced that Amelia had a heart defect and liquid on her lungs and probably wouldn't even make it full term. Amelia proved her doctors wrong and made her grand debut into this world January 13th and has been a fighter ever since.

Unfortunately, diagnosed at birth with Down Syndrome and a life-threatening heart defect, it has been no easy feat. Her short life has had it's fair share of high's and low's, and as we learned last night, God has different plans for her than we all had hoped. I ask that today you keep Amelia and her family in your thoughts, and pray that she has a painless return back up to Heaven where she may watch over all of us.

Sweet Amelia Grace, you have taught us more about miracles in your short time than we may have ever learned without you!

(A side note I wanted to mention that struck me as interesting - Amelia was born 1/13 at 2:22, my niece Olivia was born 2/22 at 1:13. I take this as a sign that this precious baby will forever be watching over my niece and keeping her in good hands!)

All around the world

2010-05-13T09:06:00.002-04:00

If you ever visit my blog outside of GoogleReader, you've probably noticed those little icon's on the right side of my page that relate to sewing. See the one that says Fussy Cut Bee? Well, that little icon has been getting me all kinds of excited lately!

Let me give you the one paragraph explanation of a quilting bee. Basically, there are 12 people from all over the states (sometimes out of the country) and each person gets a month. When it's your month you send out fabric to the other 11 and they will sew you a block or two and send it back. Then you can sew them into a quilt, make pillows, do whatever you want with them. Comprende?

Well May is my month, so the end of April I sent out a little bit of these fabrics to the other 11 people. One package even went all the way to London. This quilt I had seen online was the inspiration (created by Alissa)

And I'm starting to get blocks back in the mail. I am in LOVE with them, and can't wait until I get enough to put it all together! Here are a few that my lovely bee members have created for me

Aren't they gorgeous!? The first two were made by Jane over at Fancy Two she has two adorable little girls that keep her busy! The other four (I know, FOUR, wow! Thank you!!) were made by Lynette, you can visit her Etsy store here. Two very talented ladies! I will be sure to share once I get my blocks from all 11!

The modern quilting community is gaining quite a presence online... it's amazing how far quilting has come since the days of our grandma's and great grandma's! I urge those of you who aren't crafty to check it out next time you're in the market for a new blanket or baby gift, there's a lot of gorgeous handmade pieces all over Etsy!

Comment for a cure

2010-05-07T11:49:00.000-04:00

[img source]

No matter if you are a compulsive commenter or you never post a peep on my blog... do me this one favor, visit Meandering Mom Shops and post a comment for the cure. For every comment posted BlogHer and KFC will donate $1 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
So go, scoot, click your way on over, and pass this along! Let's see how quick we can help her meet her 1000th comment!

Now that's a bucketful of blessings!

Everyone maybe worth knowing

2010-04-29T14:24:00.004-04:00

On our trip back from Kentucky, I started reading a book I had picked up a few months ago, Everyone Worth Knowing by Lauren Weisberger.

[img source]

Let me go ahead and throw it out there that I'm a speed reader. I had 3/4 of the book done in about 4 hours... and I LOVED it. I was totally into the book, wanted the characters to be real life best friends, you know all that good stuff. With that being said, once I got back I didn't have as much free time and didn't get to finish the book until last night.

Maybe it's just me, but honestly I was a little bit disappointed. I was hooked on the book, but the last like two chapters just kinda let me down. I feel like lots of details were left out and the end was hurried. Has anyone else read this? Did you have the same feeling?

All in all, I would totally recommend this book, it's a great chick lit beach read and that's exactly what I was looking for! I absolutely loved the author's other book, Chasing Harry Winston, and adore the movie The Devil Wears Prada (although I haven't read the book). I can definitely see the similarities between DWPrada and Everyone Worth Knowing though, they seem to have very similar main characters!

Next up I'm going to move along to something recommended by you guys!

Gettin lucky in Kentucky!

2010-04-26T12:16:00.001-04:00

I'm prefacing this post by re-stating the fact that I am a 60yr old stuck in a 22yr olds body. Just saying. If you start reading and find yourself thinking "wow, what a geek!" feel free to exit, I promise I'll try to contain my excitement! ;) Oh! But before you go, thank you for your sweet, sweet comments on my nieces photos! I digress...

So every year around this time there's a big quilt show in Paducah, Kentucky. And when I say big I mean HUGE! Just about every store in their town has fabric vendors taking it over during this weekend, the antique stores, grocery stores and even the Harley shop had been overrun by quilters! My mom and I went a few years ago and had a blast. We bought so much cute fabric and couldn't wait to go back this year!

So at noon on Thursday I left work, met mom at home (along with her friend Gina) and headed out on our 5.5 hour drive. Girls weekend, woohoo!

We did a lot of fabric shopping. Aside from food and a few vintage pieces of jewelry (which I can't wait to share in a future post) all I bought was fabric! I came home with two huge bags and I can't wait to share photos, I hope to get a few quilts made and up for sale in the next few months!

One of my favorite reasons to go to Paducah is because of Hancocks of Paducah. Every year they have huge tables set up of precut fabric that is atleast 50% off of what you'd normally pay. It's typically a madhouse (see photo) with women surrounding all the tables going through fabric.

If you can't tell, I was by far the youngest person with the exception of children in strollers that had no choice but to come. Hah I love it though! These ladies are so sweet, and are just so impressed that someone my age is into quilting! They are always asking me questions, not to mention glaring at my bright, bold fabric choices in comparison to their muted colors!

We got back in town Sunday afternoon, and of course I was sad to be back to the real world and work today! Oh how I love days when I don't have to wake up to my alarm!! To be honest, I missed ChrisChris though, so I was atleast excited to come back and see him. I had a blast spending the weekend with my mom, too. The older I get the more I appreciate the time I get to spend with her! I love that it no longer feels like we're just mother/daughter but also that we're friends!

Spring Giveaway : Winner

2010-04-26T09:08:00.001-04:00

I've been out of town for a long weekend and in non-blogger mode since Thursday afternoon! Alas, I'm back at work and slowly catching up with all my comments, new followers and hundreds of unread blog posts (yikes!)

The first task to check off this morning is announce the winner of my Spring Giveaway sponsored by Elliven Studio!

The winner of this handmade ruffled stationary set is #5, Miss Nicole over at BusyGirl! I can't wait to hear what she's going to use them for! (Nicole, I've sent you an email with details!)

Thanks again to Julie for hosting this giveaway, if you haven't already checked out her Etsy shop go do so now! She has a ton of cute, not to mention practical, things! I'm snagging up a coupon holder this week!

Livy Loo's 8 Weeks Old!

2010-04-22T09:25:00.001-04:00

I haven't bombarded you with photos of my adorable, snuggly niece lately, and my lucky readers, I think today is a good day for that! Olivia had her one month photos taken a few weeks ago, I like to think she takes after her aunt in the good looks department ;) (Joking! but really, this kid is a doll baby)

That last one is her on Easter. This week she rolled over from her tummy to her back all by herself! I can't believe how much she's changing already, one part of me wants her to stay tiny and snuggly, while the other part of me can't wait til she can start walking and talking and I can take her out on fun little auntie/niecey outings!

I have really fond memories of hanging out with my Aunt Pat when I was young, I always LOVED when I got to go spend the day (or if I was really lucky spend the night too!) with her, I just hope that Olivia feels that same way towards me!

And of course, don't forget to enter my giveaway! It's going to be open until Sunday, and you don't want to miss out on this ruffle stationary set!

43 degrees and a whole lotta pink

2010-04-21T11:11:00.001-04:00

Saturday morning ~~we woke up at 6:30~~ Chris woke up at 6:30 to get a shower and run to Dunkin Donuts to surprise me with coffee and a donut when I woke up at 7 7:15ish (he's kind-of adorable, I know!)

We then decked ourselves out in our pink gear and waited for Al & EP and my darlin' friend Casey to meet us at the condo. Once they arrived we piled into a car, drove down the street and got ready to kick breast cancer in the booty!

I was completely shocked by the amount of people there! I heard on the news that they had over $41,000 people sign up. Which yea, sounds like a lot until you see them all on one street - holy tata's!

(~~Stole~~ Borrowed these photos from Casey's facebook!)

EP, Allison, Casey, myself & ChrisChris

This was our first year doing Race for the Cure, and aside from the chilly temperatures we had a blast! Three miles isn't nearly as bad as I imagined it being (I might kick myself for saying this, but I almost think I could have ran it)

On our path we passed the Indianapolis Zoo, and they had one of their elephants standing on the hill with big pink ribbons painted on her ear - so cute!

We spent a large part of the 3 miles chatting and enjoying the sunshine (thank goodness it didn't rain!). We've come up with some awesome team names for next year, and we're planning on getting a larger group together to do it! I had such a sense of community and pride when we looped around back to the finish line! My least favorite part was seeing the children and teens with the "In Loving Memory of My Mom" signs on their shirts, that just broke my heart, but it gave me an even bigger push to volunteer again next year and try to raise even more money in the fight against breast cancer!

That's one more thing I get to cross off my 23 Before 23 list! (Did you notice my new button the right side, fancy huh?)

Spring Giveaway!

2010-04-19T08:25:00.006-04:00

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. THANKS FOR ENTERING!
Good morning lovelies!

Did Monday morning come quick or what?! I'm excited to kick off this week with a giveaway though! I have a super cute set of handmade stationary for one of my lucky readers made by Julie over at elliven studio

I think these would be so cute to send to a friend who just bought a new home (at their new address of course) or to congratulate on a new baby!

And since I love the back-story behind items, I asked Julie for a quick little bio so we all could get to know her a little better:

"My name is Julie, I'm a SAHM and the owner of the Etsy shop elliven. I focus on creating accessories using designer fabrics, and recently started offering a stationery line that combines paper with fabric. The stationery line includes sets created out of handmade paper which has been made by myself using recycled paper from my own home. I love to combine different textures to add dimension to my products. Stationery sets with ruffled fabric or fabric accessories with some vintage lace sewn onto them, this gives each item it's own one of a kind, unique look! I love to hang out with my three boys and husband when I'm not creating items for the shop, and am constantly looking for inspiration for new items."

SO, want to win this cute little set of 3 handmade ruffled cards (each with their own envelope and piece of Japanese Washi tape - I posted about my adoration for Washi tape here!)....

To enter:

*You must be a follower of my blog!*

1 entry: visit elliven and tell me what your favorite piece is

2nd entry: become a follower of Julie's blog, elliven studio
(leave a comment here letting me know)

3rd entry: blog about this giveaway (be sure to leave a comment with a link!)

*As always, you must leave me a separate comment for each entry - it's MUCH easier that way!

Winner will be chosen at random on Sunday evening.

Something to remember

2010-04-08T13:23:00.000-04:00

I'm not going to lie - I don't go to church, and I honestly can't say I've been since I was in elementary school. I am not completely sure of my beliefs and am not posting this to start a big debate, but ever since ChrisChris shared this quote with me a few months ago I continuously find my mind wandering back to it...

To get something you never had, you have to do something you never did.
When God takes something from your grasp he's not punishing you, but merely opening your hands to receive something better.

The Will of God will never take you where the Grace of God will not protect you

Work in Progress

2010-04-07T16:02:00.002-04:00

I know my page looks a little nuts right now.... I was playing with Bloggers new template designer feature and, well honestly, it's 4 o'clock and I'm leaving work! I will fix this bad boy when I get some time later tonight!

Etsy Love : April 2010

2010-04-06T09:33:00.001-04:00

I know, it's Tuesday and I'm skipping Top2Tuesday! (gasp!) I've been drooling over a handful of things over at Etsy and with the sudden burst of warm spring weather here in the circle city I'm in more of a shopping mood than ever! Here are some things I'm wanting right now....

1. An incredibly cute spring clutch by ArstyCraftyBabe

She has a bunch of really cute color combinations - I want throw my cell phone and cash in there with a pair of jeans and a white tshirt for a relaxed date night with the mister!

2. Chic little knot ring by indiaylaluna

This dainty little ring would be one of those that I wear everyday and layer with everything!

3. A bright, cheery 8"x10" Sunflower print ialbert

I want this in a black frame leaning up on a mantle or a floating shelf! What an easy, cheap way to add a splash of color!

4. An Anthropologie-esque Initial Mug by TickledPinkGoods

How cute would a set of these spelling out your last name or initials look hanging in the kitchen?

5. Summer-cocktail-ready coasters by HouseofPeltier

These have back-porch-sittin' written ALL over them! So cute, they would look awesome in a living room too!

This Etsy Love featured simple things that add a pop of color, so you can transition into spring and summer months without spending a boatload of cash! If you're anything like me you want the most bang for your buck!

What are some ways you're planning on sprucing up your spring wardrobe and home?

(All photos are property of their respective Etsy sellers!)

N'night!

2010-04-05T21:36:00.001-04:00

I didn't sleep well last night, it was storming and the thunder woke me up around 2am and I honestly don't know if I ever really fell back asleep after that.

Ugh hate those nights!

I thought I'd leave you with a picture of my eat-her-up-she's-so-darn-cute-niece! Baby girl is 6 weeks old today! I cherish the fact that my brother & sister-in-love only live about 15min from me. I get the chance to spend so many moments with them and watch LivyLoo grow!

We're moving!!

2010-04-01T11:39:00.001-04:00

Oh my gosh you guys, I have THE most exciting news!
Yesterday after work, I was about to leave my head boss stopped by my office. He was talking in hushed tones and to be honest it freaked me out a little bit. Remember the merger I was telling you about? Well apparently, our new partner company is bringing in their designers from Texas, and so they are trying to figure out where to fit my boss and myself (we are the currently the only two people in the design department).

So get this, our new partner has an office in the Caribbean to oversee production and distribution in those areas (they do a lot of business with resort chains and cruise ships and what not).
Big boss man talked to me for a little bit about how they would like to get someone down there to do advertising and work on a vacation-centered type of design for when our sales reps go in to the resorts.
Their office is located in San Juan, Puerto Rico! Chrischris & I stopped there on our cruise in October, and while it's not my FAVORITE Caribbean spot, HELLO it's still a lot more "paradise" then Indiana!!

So if all goes well, we will be moving to Puerto Rico within the next 6 months! I'm a little nervous about the whole thing but honestly this was a position I couldn't pass up! There's even talk of me having to travel (OH DARN!) to some of the major resorts down there to work on drink menus for their on-the-property bars and things like that.

I'm going to hate leaving all my family back here, but hopefully once Chrischris & I get all settled in we can have visitors all the time!

Race for the Cure

2010-03-31T11:04:00.001-04:00

Save the TaTa's!!

(PS I have this shirt, and I always get a whole SLEW of comments when I wear it! You can purchase similar ones here)

I signed up to do Indianapolis' Race for the Cure this year! I'm really excited about it.... it will be my first major "race" and while it's only a 5k, and I do not plan on running it, I am still excited for the meaning behind it.This is very out of my element. While I did track in high school, I mainly did sprints & long jump, I'm by no means a distance runner! I hope I don't disappoint any of you by saying that I will be walking, not running, in this event!

Watching my grandma battle cancer was one of the hardest things I ever had to witness, although she was throwing her punches against Leukemia, breast cancer is just as scary of a battle! I decided to join in the fight this year in honor of all the brave women who are fighting it, and to all the families who have lost women they loved due to this terrible bully!

If you want to check out more or even be SUPER awesome and make a donation to help find a cure, you can check out my own personal page.

To learn more about the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure in general, you can visit this site.

Not a spork, but a fork.

2010-03-29T14:27:00.001-04:00

I'm at a spork in the road. Hehe ok it's more of a fork, but that's not nearly as fun!
You see, I started this blog as part of my senior design portfolio in order to graduate. It once acted as a website for myself as a designer. And then I never used it because, well to be honest, because I already had a job. And I didn't have a reason to keep a constantly updated portfolio (besides, I keep pieces from my current job on my House of Booze site anyways!)
So, I began using it as a site for my sewing, crafty and quilt things. The name, Cream & Cotton, carried over because well honestly, it just fit. But lately over the past few months it's become less of a creative-purpose blog and more of just a general "this is my life!" blog.

While I love blogging like this, I missing having a space to share my creative pieces and projects, and although I know I could just smoosh it all together on here I just don't think that works out. I know some of you don't want to hear about the new fabric I bought, and those of you who come here to see my latest projects get tired of hearing about my Top 2 Tuesdays!

So bear with me as I'm in the process of trying to figure out how I want to move forward at this point!

Have any of you dealt with something similar? How did you handle it? I've contemplated making tabs and keeping everything within Cream & Cotton and also about moving this to a new name and saving C&C for my Craft Creations... decisions decisions

One of a kind!

2010-03-26T14:17:00.001-04:00

A few months ago I was in the Coach store and saw this ring

and I sort of fell in love with it.... except, well, I didn't want to be a walking Coach billboard so I stored it in the back of my mind and carried on with my life.

Only thing is, I couldn't get it off my mind! So a few weeks ago I put an ad on Etsy's alchemy feature asking for someone to recreate this ring for me but put Chelsea instead of Coach. I had an awesome response and finally decided on someone to create my ring, and... (drum roll please)

Um... basically I love it! Bram with SilverRoots created it and I'm sure he could hook you up with something similar if you wanted! Once I decided on him and forked over the money, I had my ring created & back to me in less than a week! He kept me updated on the whole process and it was a great first Etsy Alchemy experience!

Wouldn't this be super cute with your little one's name (or names!) on it? Maybe your hubby's name, or your new initials if you're a newlywed?! The possibilities are endless seriously!

UPDATE: Here's my attempt to take a picture of it on my hand! A little blurry - apologies!

I need help!

2010-03-25T15:36:00.003-04:00

Hey geniuses (boy, if that doesn't sound like me being a smart ass, I don't know what does! I am being honest though haha promise)

I need help. You know how you can make "pages" within blogger now - ie different tabs at the top or side, with static pages such as About Me or what not?
I want one of my pages to have all of my quilt/crafty posts on it, as in every post that I have labeled "quilt". Is this (easily) feasible?
Does anyone know if there is a way to do this?
I know it's possible becauseKnock Off Wood has it on hers, if you click on one of her categories they take you to a site titled "www__.blogspot.com/search/label/____"

I am semi-fluent in html, but I can't seem to find a tutorial or coding anywhere for this!

Naner no-no

2010-03-22T09:16:00.002-04:00

Hey all,
It was brought to my attention by an anonymous comment that my last post may be offensive to some. I just wanted to drop a quick line to apologize about this. I didn't intend for it to be taken that way- the banana reference is to "banana hammocks" or what men's Speedo swimwear is sometimes referred to and I said the African-American audience because that is the target consumer for many of the rappers brands' I referred to at the beginning of the post/conversation.

I now understand how that could have been taken WAY wrong, and I just wanted to clear that up!

I do, however, wish the anonymous commenter wouldn't have been anonymous so I could personally apologize. Has anyone else had issues with the "infamous anonymous"?

Merger- yay or nay?

2010-03-17T08:58:00.001-04:00

If you've been following along here for any bit of time, you've probably picked up that I work for a liquor distributor. We are a local distributor, serving mainly Indiana. About a year ago word starting brewing that a nation-wide distributor was wanting to break into the market in Indiana, this wasn't something to celebrate for us, because all-in-all they would force us out of business.

There had been rumors swirling that we were trying to merge with another nation-wide distributor, and as I learned through the local online newspaper this morning.... we merged.

Yep, I learned of it from the internet. I'm not the happiest of campers right now. I love my job, but they are so bass-ackwards on some things... I just can't believe they wouldn't let ALL of the employees know before it hit the tv's & newspapers! (Our sales reps got an email yesterday, but us designers were left clueless!)

There's no word yet as far as.... well, basically, as far as if we'll still have jobs after this is all said and done, but they're saying that we shouldn't be worried.

Hey maybe I can score a raise and/or extra vacation time after this!

UPDATE: About 10 minutes after I posted this, we got an email with the news brief in it. Everyone around the office is REALLY upbeat and talking about what a good thing it is, so that makes me really happy!

Dippin' my cake balls!

2010-03-14T22:27:00.000-04:00

I know, I know, I'm sorry... I couldn't help myself - all evening long I kept saying "I gotta dip my balls tonight" I share the same humor as a 16 year old boy, what can I say! Atleast I added "cake" into the title!

So, I've spent many a day drooling over Bakerella's treats. I'll be the first to admit that. If you haven't you should probably hurry on over there and bring your slobber rag with you! I decided it was time to try out one of her recipes. So Friday night while we were watching the little rooter-tooter

(sidenote: how precious is this photo of her with her daddy's hand)

she was snoozing away so I decided to make some Red Velvet Cake balls. I didn't have a chance to dip them until Saturday morning, and they were devoured shortly there after. I used red velvet cake mix, cream cheese icing and chocolate bark coating. Honestly, this is one of the best things I have ever made!

(poor Q iPhone photo - apologies!)

Since I'm hosting a Lia Sophia jewelry party Monday evening, I woke up this morning (and somehow lost an hour while I slept... grr damn you daylight savings - us Hoosiers are new to it, and do not enjoy it!) with a brilliant idea. I was going to make more cake balls! And as I am writing this, my chocolate bark is hardening. This time I went with lemon cake, lemon supreme icing and white chocolate. My kitchen smells of lemon yumminess.

I haven't tried one of the lemon balls yet, but I am thinking they will make a delicious breakfast for me as I'm rushing off to work tomorrow morning! PS I'm totally excited for my party tomorrow night, have you ever bought from them? They have some seriously cute stuff! (Not to mention awesome hostess goodies like freebies and great deals!)

Good Morning Friday

2010-03-12T08:38:00.003-05:00

I wish I could say I'm back with another thrill seeking story like yesterday! Unfortunately, I'm not... give a girl a break, she can't be adventurous and exciting every day! But anyways, I've been a lot more active in blogging in the past few months, and I'm having a blast! I wanted to thank all ya'll who come here and listen to me babble, and especially those of you who babble back! I've had so much fun getting to know some of you (and those of you who are hiders... come out and play, I don't bite!)

Until last summer I never really knew blogging existed, but once I discovered it...woo boy, I'm addicted! I look forward to checkin up on my "invisible friends" as Chrischris & I call you all, and I love being able to chat with ladies all over the country (and some in other countries!)

So, I'm curious - what's your favorite part about blogs? Do you read them for recipes/ideas/tips? For inspiration? Or just to make some invisible friends with some awesome people?

Oh! By the way.... 'll be back later today with a new feature I'm starting, it's called Mixer & Mingle, and I'm going to feature a cute outfit with sourcing as well as a lil cocktail recipe. This weekly feature lets me throw in a little of my job training as well as my love for (affordable) fashion and I'm quite excited for it! I've been dreaming it up in my head for a couple weeks now!

Lil' legs

2010-03-02T12:34:00.001-05:00

Do you remember the Baby Legs' legwarmers that I mentioned here?

Well look at this little doll baby sportin her yellow polka dotted ones that her favorite aunt got her before she was even born! (Yea, she may need to grow into them a lil!)

PS. I promise I do fill my days with things other than taking iPhone photos of my new niece, and I'll revert back to talking about those other things soon. I promise!

Adding to the stash

2010-02-27T22:25:00.002-05:00

For Christmas, Chrischris gave me a gift card for one of my favorite LQS's. I was SO pumped to use it, but I had been doing a few commissioned quilts around that time, and had been to the store so many times, that once I had my gift card there was nothing I wanted, I was tired of looking at all of it! (I know, gasp!)

I have been showing admirable will-power the past month and a half, and haven't visited, as to ensure a great new selection when I went.

It worked! I not only got all the fabric for my Fussy Cut Quilting Bee but I also got some other goodies!

(Note: pictures from Fat Quarter Shop, although I love them I didn't get my fabric here!)

Some Verna by Kate Spain. I won't lie, I wasn't that impressed when I saw this line online, but in person I fell in love. Imagine that ;)

And some Blush. I worked at a scrapbook store while I was in high school, and Basic Grey was one of my favorite paper designers, I was really excited to learn they were designing fabric too!

I also got to see Moda's new(er) line Oz, I was uncertain about this one online, but I have to admit, it's pretty darn cute!

However, the one I fell hardest for was quite a surprise to me. Not usually my style, but it's absolutely GORGEOUS!

Love love love loved it. They only had about half the line though, so I decided to wait.

With all of this good fabric you would think I spent the evening sewing. I didn't!

I've been bonding with this lil lady....

Oh man I love her. She has my heart wrapped around her finger! I'm off to bed now though, I hope to get some serious sewing time in tomorrow... way too many new goodies not to play with!

Stash!

2010-02-25T07:20:00.002-05:00

Something good did come from my blah mood the other day.... I pulled a pretty fun selection of fabrics from my stash! I plan on doing all improv blocks, and almost have the first done (give me a break, I was in a blah mood! Not conducive to creativity or sewing!)

It's already been deemed the pee & poop quilt. Yes, we have the maturity of 2nd graders around here!

I'm skimpy

2010-02-24T19:19:00.000-05:00

My posting is skimpy I mean. I've got a lot going on right now, a lot aside from the most adorable niece in the world that is. I am still alive, I promise! I'll leave you with a very cute picture that we have titled "The Grandpa Hand-off"

Olivia Lauren

2010-02-22T20:37:00.001-05:00

Bloggie buddies, I want to introduce you to my newest obsession...

Baby Olivia

She was born today at 1:13pm, weighing in at a healthy 8lbs, 4oz. The new parents are doing wonderfully, but quite wore out!

That's my mom in the photo, the new grandma! I will post more pictures soon, but I can't find my camera cord right now!

Another update!

2010-02-22T09:31:00.001-05:00

Looks like little miss Papaya is just as stubborn as the rest of our family. This is how the day's played out so far
11:30pm (last night): B texted me to say that Courtney were having contractions 5-6min apart so they were heading to the hospital to see if it was time.
3:15am: Another text from Brandin, they were admitted, Courtney is at 6cm
6:30am: I checked in to see how it was going, Brandin said everything was good til Courtney got the epidural, she had been puking ever since, and no progress
9:15am: Still stuck at 6cm
10:04am: Moved along to 7cm, they gave Courtney a little more epidural (she was given too much the first time, that's why she got sick)

Thanks for all the happy thoughts, will keep you updated!

Papaya Update

2010-02-21T22:12:00.001-05:00

The mama-to-be is having contractions about 10 minutes apart. I see a baby making her way into this world (and our hearts) soon soon soon!

Blah.

2010-02-21T17:47:00.000-05:00

That's how I feel today.
Not blah in the sick way, just blah in the attitude way. I got two new cookie cookbooks (I LOVE making cookies) for Christmas, and was flipping through them with the intent of making cookies, but nothing looked appealing. I went to the antique mall, and wandered around there for a good hour or two, but didn't find anything. I sat down to sew, and made a block for one WIP, a block for another, and then was just burnt out with that too.

I don't know what my deal is! I've been really anxious lately, and am hoping that it fades after Tuesday's biopsy. My niece will be here soon... that makes me excited, but today that excitement won't stick around.
I can't figure out a darn thing that will shake this mood though! I've tried playing Wii, catching up on my blogs, I even washed my hair (dirty hair makes me grumpy. Super grumpy. Just ask ChrisChris) but nothing is working.

I think I'll just figure out how to be content with my grumpus mood today. It doesn't look like it wants to go anywhere, and I am tired of fighting it! Do you ever have this problem? How do you shake it? Help!! Ha

Winner!

2010-02-21T12:19:00.002-05:00

You all are so fun! I've really enjoyed getting to know you all and checking out the new blogs of those of you who entered from SMS!

Some of your $150 answer really cracked me up - I'm not gonna lie, if I found $150 in a new pair of jeans I would probably put it in my bank account! Boring I know, but that's a nice chunk towards a vacation!

I'll quit babbling though, and announce the winner.... thanks to the Random Number Generator, out of the 20 of you who so kindly left comments and played along....

Comment #9, Mateya from Our Journey from Iraq to the Alter, is going to win my Favorite Things gift bundle!

How funny - we're both the boring ones who would save the money! Anways, congrats Mateya! Everyone else should go check out her super cute blog!

Thanks for helping me celebrate my 100th post, I've really enjoyed gettin to know you all! I had a lot of fun with the giveaway, I hope to do them more frequently!

Papaya Rose will be here soon!

2010-02-19T15:07:00.005-05:00

I feel I should preface this post by saying Papaya Rose is not going to be her real name. It was a joke name I came up with about halfway through Courtney's pregnancy, and it has sort of stuck. (Mama & Daddy haven't decided on a name/aren't telling until she is born).

(print by SycamoreStreetPress, found on etsy here)

I'm sure you are all familiar with Papaya, I posted about her here when they found out she was a girl, here when I was looking around for gifts, and here when we threw her a shower!

My brother emailed me today to say that Courtney is half effaced, and 2-3cm dilated!! I'm not exactly sure what all this means... BUT the doctor says the baby will be here by Thursday! Please keep Courtney & Papaya in your thoughts and lets hope for a fast, smooth, healthy delivery whenever she decides to make her grand debut!

I can't wait to be an aunt! Any and all suggestions are welcomed - aside from babysitting gigs, I haven't had much experience with little babes! I was the youngest in my family!

These are a few of my favorite things

2010-02-19T10:51:00.001-05:00

Since this is my 100th post, I felt like I should make it somethin' special! I already filled you in on the giveaway I am hosting in the last post, although I didn't tell you what it was for. Is the suspense killing you yet? I can only imagine! (Kidding. Although, I would be flattered!)

I am giving away a little bundle of my favorite things! Chrischris & I wandered around last night collecting goodies, and since they are all still in the bags in my trunk and I am at work, I can't very well post a picture so I will fake it!

The first goody is a super cute scarf (not the exact one pictured, but VERY close!). I love love love scarfs. My typical work attire is a plain colored shirt, dress pants, cute heels and a scarf. Even in the summer. I have probably 15-20. It's bad, real bad!

The second item in my rad giveaway bundle is a tube of Burts Bee's. Absolutely addicted to this, I've probably gone through 6 tubes (that's a lot in chapstick land!). Favorite balm ever, nothing more to say!

Maybe I should have titled this the Things Chelsea is Addicted to" hah - Orange tictacs and dark chocolate. Yum!

I've also included one of my favorite games - Left Right Center. It's a dice game, we play for quarters, sometimes dollars, but if you want to be gambling-free it comes with little plastic chips. SO fun, and you can play with anywhere from 3 to 300 people?!

The last item is a reusable plastic cup. It looks like a to-go cup, but is sturdy plastic, with it's own lid and straw. (The one in the bundle isn't Starbucks brand, but plain so you don't have to be a Bucksy-snob!) I am pretty passionate about doing what I can to reduce my footprint, and while I'm not an all out tree-hugger or what have you, I think any little bit helps. I use a Sigg bottle, but when I saw this I seriously was considering keeping it for myself!!!

So, that's the giveaway, friends! Make sure you enter here! I will number all the comments and use the Random Number Generator to pick a winner Sunday! (I'm having a lot of fun reading all of your comments so far btw, you guys crack me up!)

Hey you over there... yea, you.... (GIVEAWAY!)

2010-02-18T08:40:00.004-05:00

I want to meet you! I noticed that I have 36 followers (!!!!) Holy cow, now people actually read what I'm saying and notice when I don't use semicolons or dashes correctly. The pressure! I like you guys, every time I write on my blog it's kind of like calling my best friend and chatting! Except, some of you BFF's out there don't chat back, so I'm sittin here babbling on, and then I'm all like 'hello? hello? did AT&T drop my call again??'

Exciting news, this is my 99th post. That means 100 is the next, and I think that deserves a giveaway! (cue exciting music) My first one ever! Want to be part of this giveaway? The giveaway that I have yet to name because it's THAT awesome that I'm waiting to reveal it til my 100th post....

Well then comment! Right here, right now! I want to know some things though...

1. your name

2. where you call "home"

3. why you come here (if it's cause we went to high school together, and you followed the link on my Facebook and you hated me then and still do now.... that's ok too you can still win!)

and a fun question...

4. if you bought a new pair of jeans and found $150 in the pocket what would you do with it?

5. your email (when some of you comment, I get a 'no-reply' email address and it makes me sad, plus if you win I want to make sure I can contact you! BTW- Katieballa posted an awesome lil tutorial on how to solve this!)

*6. If you're a newby here, it's not too late - you can become a follower now and still enter!

Don't worry, I'll show you what you can win tomorrow, I promise it will be awesome though! Happy 99 loves,

UPDATE: Giveaway is now closed! Thanks all for playing along!

Dewey Color System

2010-02-16T21:11:00.000-05:00

I've heard of the Dewey Decimal System... but the Dewey Color System? I stumbled upon this a few days ago and jumped at the chance to take their personality test! (Honestly, am I the only one who loves to take these things?)

You go through 5 different stages, and choose the colors you most prefer and least prefer to look at. My results were pretty accurate! (I guess they do claim that this is the world's only validated color personality test)

I guess I did go with the right path in college... either that or my intuitiveness led me to pick colors that I just knew would relate to my "creator" status. I only kid! If you go take it, you'll have to share.... did you think your results were accurate?

Fabric picked out!

2010-02-14T11:59:00.001-05:00

We got our month assignments for the Fussy Cut Bee last week - Ive been hunting for the perfect fabric ever since! My month isn't til May, but I still was anxious to pick some out!

I didn't want to use a Heather Ross print, even though she is like the quintessential "fussy cut" fabric goddess and have been trying to find something else. I don't have a pattern picked out yet, I might just send the fabric and let people do whatever they desire. Regardless, I love love LOVE my fabric... here it is...

Ah I die. Look at that gorgeous face hidden in the flowers! And the eye in the apple in the bottom right corner. Fussy cut written all over it! I can't wait to get it in the mail and match it to some coordinating prints! I got this "Lady in the Canyon" beaut from the ReproDepot, at $11.95/half yard it was a bit steep but, cmon, doesn't love know no bounds?!

I'm off to get ready for my Lovey Dovey day suprise with ChrisChris! Hope you all have an awesome day!

Look! Look!

2010-02-10T21:38:00.000-05:00

Guess what I had waiting for me today when I got home from work....

Holy cute. And reversible. And my favorite color, teal! (Yes it's a total coincidence I had on a teal tank, I wore it to work today!) Remember me mentioning the apron swap here? My partner also included not one, but two, totally cute painted martini glasses! This was my first apron swap, and it was really fun. I'd love to do another!

Make a lil love!

2010-02-09T21:19:00.002-05:00

I had Monday off, so after running some errands, I pulled out a project I started about a year ago and then forgot all about.

It went from a baby size quilt to the perfect size for cuddling under. Ideal, since it's made up of love! (no... really!)

Spencer helped me pick out the border ;)

I'm hoping to get the back sewed up this week, and then start quilting it sometime thereafter but I doubt this loveydovey cuddle quilt will be done by Valentine's Day. Boo! Oh well.... I am still really excited to finish it!

See what every one else is working on over at Sew Much Ado's We Did It Wednesday!

I joined a bee!

2010-02-03T14:28:00.000-05:00

I've threw in the towel and joined the Fussy Cut Bee hosted by Lisa over at SophiaAster.

I'm really excited, I always hear about bees too late and they are already full. She is still accepting signups, if 5 more people join there will be two bees! Hurry on over and check it out!

T-1 to Papaya's shower

2010-01-30T11:24:00.000-05:00

The noodle has a nickname. She's not even here yet, and my niece is called Papaya by nearly half of our family friends! It started as a joke when I threatened mama-to-be that they didn't choose a name soon I was going to name her, and it was going to be something outrageous and CelebriTot-inspired!

That's where Papaya Rose came in. It was either that or Boisenberry Blou! We started referring to Courtney's bump as Papaya as a joke, and now it's kind of stuck! You have to admit, there could be worse nicknames though!

Anyways, Papaya's shower is tomorrow! I have LOVED planning this, like seriously I've had so much fun. I wanted to share some of the goodies with you.

Candy bar! We sort of lucked out, and with the Valentines day right around the corner we found TONS of options of things that match the shower colors - pink, dark pink/red, and a springy green (these colors, and brown, are the colors of the nursery!)

These are part of the favors - aren't these little jars ADORABLE?! We filled them with 3 shades of pink M&M's and tied a green ribbon around the top.

Jones Soda's that will be going in a bucket full of ice - I can't remember the exact flavors- I want to say .

we got Cream Soda (clear/white), FuFu Berry (pink) and Apple (green).

I just wanted to give ya'll a sneak peek! I've got a TON to do today, and will be taking lots of pictures tomorrow so I will definately have a lot to share! EEeeee -I can't wait! I am so excited there will be a little one in the family!

Here's a cute picture of the parents-to-be from a few years ago. Aren't they so cute?! Since I've never "introduced" them on my blog; that's my brother, Brandin and his my sister-in-law, Courtney.... they're so excited for lil noodle to get here!

Saying ByeBye to the Friendship Stars

2010-01-28T18:03:00.001-05:00

I have this little problem of getting myself into WAY too many things at once! I've always been this way, and I don't see it changing anytime soon! I'm not one of those people who can lay around on a couch all day, I HAVE to be doing something otherwise I get really anxious.

I finished up one of the projects for charities earlier this week -

My friendship stars for Cancer is Sew Done that I wrote about here. These lil cuties are getting sent off in the morning!

Now I'm off to finish up sewing the knickknacks on my apron for the Martini Madness Apron swap. This thing has been stressin me out for sure! I will post pictures soon. A few of the girls had added pictures of theirs to the Martini Madness blog, and let me tell you... I wouldn't be upset if I received any of those!

I better get to work now!

Back to South Beach!

2010-01-25T21:24:00.001-05:00

Our boys in blue have done it again!

My mom & I at the game Sunday night. We've been lucky enough to be at both championship games where the Colts advanced to the Super Bowl! I love it!!

They deserve a second trip back to Miami! Go blue!!

Sneak Peek

2010-01-21T21:19:00.002-05:00

Check out these lil lovelies...

They're going to be making an appearance on my apron for my Martini Madness Apron Swap!

I got the fabric a few days ago but am just now finding time to work on it. I'm all giggly with excitement! I can't wait to swap, I hope my partner loooves what I come up with!

Do you have Words?

2010-01-21T09:55:00.002-05:00

I have a new obsession, it's an iPhone app of course. First Farkle, then TapTapFarm now Words with Friends!

It's basically scrabble, you can play with your friends who also have iPhones (or random opponents if you so choose)

If you close out the app it doesn't end your game, which is the best part. My friend Allison and I just finished a game we played off & on yesterday and last night.

If you wanna play my username is ChelseaRayHey just invite me! It's so fun ha! (And yes, I did just get 57pt word!)

WOW!

2010-01-20T10:47:00.000-05:00

I was checking out Craft Hope's blog and noticed a tweet stating that as of 17 hours ago, they have had 745 sales on their etsy shop, and have raised...

wait for it...

$15,350 for Doctors Without Borders!

This is AMAZING! They still have a ton of beautiful stuff if you haven't checked it out, go to their etsy store now!

I snagged a print from BrookLit (I mentioned her work back here),

These handmade soaps by Sonata Soaps and also...

This adorable lil guy by Henny Pennys Jumble. I can't wait to put him in our tree next year!

I heard this morning that another earthquake hit Haiti this morning. Those poor people down there, I'm glad I have been able to help out, even if it is just a little bit - I know every single penny goes towards the awesome work that Doctors Without Borders is doing down there.

Finish the Bolt (and 50% off Kona Cotton!)

2010-01-19T09:39:00.001-05:00

I wanted to write this post to tell you about something one of my LQS's does. It's called a Finish The Bolt discount. Shiisa Quilts gives you 40% off if you order 3 or more yards of select fabrics. I got some great Amy Butler Midwest Modern a few weeks ago to use as backing for a WIP that has been sitting for about a year now (terrible, I know!)
They offer very reasonable shipping to, so I totally recommend it if you want to stock up on some cheap yardage!

Another great resource I always use is a blog called Mommy Saves Big, they always have coupons you can print off and use at Joann Fabrics, this week there's a 50% off coupon and a 40% coupon (and yes, you can print off ten and send your husband and 8 kids in with you to buy others!!) I always use them on Kona yardage. While I love supporting my local quilt store's I can't justify passing up deals like this (that just means I can use that saved money towards designer fabric goodies!) The link for Joann's Printable Coupons is here.
(If you feel a lil uneasy using these, don't worry- they are the same coupons that get sent out if you are on Joann's email list). They have a ton of other coupons and online offers there too!

Don't uncross them just yet!

2010-01-19T08:30:00.002-05:00

Thanks for the finger crossing. It worked. Well, sort-of. You may need to continue for the next two weeks!

You see, my mom has been a hairstylist all her life, and a salon owner for a little over 10 years now. Great, awesome, fantastic huh? Not so much. She still cuts hair, she has a full clientele, so while she spends normal business hours behind the chair, she also has to go home and manage the business. It's wore her out, and while she wants to continue styling she's over the whole 'owning the business' part of it.

We've had her salon up for sale, and while we've had quite a few bites... most people seem to flake out and never call back or what not. She met with "really interested potential buyer" #4 last night to talk about things.
We were hoping the new lease papers would be signed and my poor overworked momma could finally breathe a sigh of relief but apparently this lady is still working things out, and is aiming for the end of the month. So please, keep us in your thoughts! I'm really hoping my mom can be free of the added stress by the time her first grandbaby gets here!

Keep your fingers crossed

2010-01-18T08:43:00.002-05:00

Hey all,
I'm asking you to please keep your fingers crossed for us. I don't want to go into detail right now, but it would be much appreciated. Thanks!!

CraftHope for Haiti

2010-01-16T09:55:00.001-05:00

I won't waste your time explaining the tragedy in Haiti, I'm pretty sure everyone is already aware and most are already helping in any way they can. Emily over at So Much For My Plans mentioned a beautiful quilt she picked up yesterday through the CraftHope etsy store, and of course I had to get check it out. I think it's awesome that all of these crafters are donating their handmade goods for this cause.

I snatched up a set of three handmade soaps for only $10! There's some really lovely things, if you haven't checked them out I highly recommend it!

While I have never visited Haiti, I have been to the Dominican Republic, which shares the island with Haiti. It's truly one of the most gorgeous places I have ever been! The people who lived there were all SO kind and welcoming, and always had a smile on their face. I can only hope that the Haitians pull through this with that same hope and joy for life.

Prepping for the little noodle

2010-01-13T13:39:00.002-05:00

If you have followed my blog for a lil while, you know that this lil macaroni is on her way.

And with the noodle coming in February, January brings a baby shower and lots of cutesy baby gifts! I've been scouring the web to find original, meaningful gifts for her. With the pre-req that they are absolutely adorable of course. What kind of aunt would I be if I got her non-adorable things!

Since it seems every third woman I meet is a pregger, I though I would share my finds!

1. Girard Alphabet Blocks

Eco-friendly, non-toxic and a great color combo. What more could I ask for?! These are available at the Museum of Modern Art's webstore for $120.

2. Birth Date Print

This would go great on a nursery wall! It's available for $25 in gracehesterdesign's etsy shop.

3. BabyLegs' leg warmers gift set

Who doesn't love those chunky baby thighs in cute lil leg warmers... plus it's MUCH easier to change a poopie one with these on then having to take whole tights/pants off! This gift set comes with 3 pairs, and are on sale for $30 from the BabyLegs' website (different color combos available!)

4. Suprise Sock Monkey

This little charmer isn't your typical sock monkey. These lil guys are handmade by artists at Fresh Art, New York-based non-profit organization that provides personal development and entrepreneurial opportunities to people with special needs. The fact that no two monkies are the same makes them even more appealing! I originally saw these on Anthropologie's website but have looked into the organization and the monkeys are also available for purchase through FreshArt's website as well, for $30

5. My Little Button boots

Originally, I wanted to get the lil squirt a pair of baby Uggs, however seeing they were a tad pricey, and would probably get grown out of rather quickly, I thought these (while slightly cheaper) were equally as adorable! They are available in six different colors from HipKnotz for $24-$28 (depending on size)

Well, I don't know about you but that's all the cuteness I can handle for one day. HA only kidding, unfortunately I need to get to work on the invites for said shower, otherwise the little peanut will be very upset when she's born and her mommy & daddy have no supplies because Auntie Chelsea didn't follow through with the party!

Circle, circle, dot, dot

2010-01-13T07:07:00.004-05:00

I've decided it's time to branch out from squares... Hellllooooo circles!

Yep, me & AB are making our rounds (hehe sorry corny I know!)

I've been tracing an old cd & cutting with my normal rotary cutter. Aside from looking like a dog chasing my tail, it's relatively easy.

I'm using 1/4 yards of 10 different prints, and it's looking like it will become a decent-sized throw!

I am following Make It...A Wonderful Life's Simple Circle Quilt Tutorial it's very easy to follow so far and although I'm only using 10 diff quarter yards I think I shoudl be ok, because I'm holding off on the border until I see how the top turns out (her tutorial has you save strips for the border as you are cutting circles)

If anyone else wants to join in on the fun or has made a simple circle quilt before I'd love to see it! I always enjoy some good quiltin' company.... linksies please!

Apronista

2010-01-10T10:29:00.002-05:00

Surprise, surprise, I joined something else! I know right. I couldn't help it - I came across a post in the SewMamaSew forum and HAD to join. It was so me. So, Hi- my name is Chelsea, I'm a martini-holic. I am the newest member to Shawnee's Flirty "Martini Madness" Apron Swap.

But really, I work in the liquor industry, and two of my favorite things to do are bake and sew. I can't believe I've gone this long without an apron, what was I thinking?! All those jeans I had to wash because I covered them in flour (I said I liked to bake, not that I was cut out for my own Food Network show - I can't keep the kitchen clean if my life depended on it!)

It's a totally cute idea, you get an anonymous partner and make them an apron and send them a cute lil package just in time for Valentine's day complete with an apron and a martini glass of your choice (no plain ones allowed!).

There's still time to join.... I believe registration is open til tomorrow. I'm kind of glad I caught it at the last minute, I am not a patient girl, and waiting a month after signing up before learning who my partner was would have drove me INSANE!

A Spoon-ful of yum

2010-01-06T11:16:00.001-05:00

Have you ordered from Spoonflower before or are you one of the swooners like me who just lurks around drooling on everything (good thing it's an e-store... I'd probably be banned from a brick&mortar store due to leaving a trail of saliva!)

I'm thinkin of placing an order one of these days. I know, first I overcame my fear of ordering fabric online, now I'm talking about ordering custom created fabric. YIKES what the heck has gotten into me!? I kid, I kid, but really... $18/yard isn't the sort of party I waltz right into, it requires a little standing shyly in the corner first.

You better believe I've picked out some favorites though!

Magnolia Little Gem - Sage

Candy Coated Numbers

Birdies Galore

Spoons & Flowers

Little Neighborhood - Tan

I really love the houses and the numbers, they're so dang cute!

Chelsea is SEW done procrastinating

2010-01-04T20:45:00.001-05:00

Well... I'm starting to be done procrastinating! I dug out my ziploc baggies of Lotus-love to start working on my charity blocks for Cancer is Sew Done (blogged about here).

These pretties will soon be part of friendship stars.... and you already know that since I'm a newly self-diagnosed Kona Cotton Addict, I've already picked out my coordinating solids and am cutting my heart out (wait... not that way. I mean, I'm cutting to my heart's content) just as soon as I close my Mac.

By the way, Tracey added new groups today, so if you haven't joined yet there's still time! You can visit the site today to find out more.

I'm a little late, but thanks Santa!

2010-01-04T11:58:00.001-05:00

They're pretty aren't they? Santa brought em for me this year. Two big bundles of Kona Cotton love, straight from his heart! While I can't wait to cut into them... I am also hesitant because they look so pretty and colorful as sit on my table! That and I can't decide what exactly I want to turn them into yet... ideas are welcome!

Makeover

2009-12-27T11:00:00.000-05:00

I'm in the process of making over the blog-a-roo. I wanted something brighter, less pastel/shabby-chicy. What do you think so far?

Dear bloggieland,

2009-12-24T11:03:00.000-05:00

Thank you for all your kind comments over the past few months! I love being able to share a lil bit of my life with you, and I especially love hearing from you!

Better late than never

2009-12-18T08:49:00.001-05:00

Chris & I weren't going to decorate his condo for Christmas this year. We were going to buy all the post-holiday clearance goodies. That was our plan atleast, until I saw the display of trees at target and talked myself into buying one.

Hey, $30 for a 6' pre-lit tree and $17 for 48 ornaments... I can't complian! It needs a tree skirt but I think it's pretty darn cute! And it's our first tree, aww!

Lil' Zoo Boo is off to it's owner!

2009-12-16T19:52:00.003-05:00

Remember seeing previews of this?

Well, it's in the hands of it's new owner now so I can finally show you all pictures!

This little guy was my first commissioned quilt, and only my 2nd one that I have quilted myself... so be easy on me!

Here's the front of the lil' zoo boo quilt. I used 6" squares Alexander Henry's 2D Zoo bordered with 3" strips of various fabrics. I had a color scheme to match, and an unknown sex of the baby. I'm really happy with the way it turned out though!

And here's the back. I quilted it in straight lines, similar to the last baby quilt, The Cindy Loo Who.

I like the simplicity of the straight lines, and they go really quickly. (Not to mention that the very thought of stippling still scares me!) The teal binding, orange stripe on the back and cream on the front are Kona Cotton, the backing is actually something I got on sale at JoAnn fabrics - love polka dots, especially if they're on sale!

The best part about this quilt... is that not even 24 hours after I gave it to her, the lil one decided to make his grand entrance into the world! (Yep, he ended up being a he - a little Aiden in fact!). I guess he was just waiting on this quilt to be done before he wanted to arrive!

Santa Baby

2009-12-15T15:40:00.001-05:00

Think of all the fun I've missed...

Think of all the jelly rolls I haven't kissed,
Next year I could be just as good (at making cute quilts)
If you check off my Christmas List.

So hurry down the chimney tonite! And into my mailbox for every month following perhaps?

I've joined in on Fat Quarter Shop's Deeeeear Santa fun. A membership to the jelly roll club is on my list.
C'mon Santa, I bet you like jelly rolls just as much as cookies! Right, right?!
But really, I've never joined any of the "we-send-you-good-stuff-every-month" clubs, and I think 2010 is going to be my year to give in!

Helping to put a smile on a strangers face

2009-12-14T22:12:00.000-05:00

I joined Sew Mama Sew's Quilting for Peace initiative tonight. I know I can't change the world, but I do like to think that I can help put a smile on someone's face when they're down. They are going to be posting simple patterns and it's a great opportunity to use up some of your old, non-favorite or just plain excess fabric!

I have also recently received a packet of information about donating quilts to our local kid's hospital here in Indy, Riley Children's Hospital. I can only imagine how much comfort a snuggly, fun quilt can provide to those poor kids in there.

Lastly, I signed up to complete 4 blocks using Amy Butler's Lotus fabric for the Cancer is Sew Done group. I lost a grandmother to leukemia about 9 years ago, and a little boy I used to baby sit has been fighting a rare form of leukemia himself these past few months. I love the idea that all of us quilters can do a block or two and those wonderful ladies will assemble them and auction them off, then donate the proceeds to Alex's Lemonade Stand. (Photo courtesy of www.amybutlerdesign.com - fabric can be purchased from http://www.westminsterfibers.com/ )

It's been so crazy around here I haven't had a chance to start on any of these projects, but hopefully I can find some time within the next couple weeks to get a jump start on things! I sure do sound ambitious!

Sneak peak

2009-12-13T20:46:00.003-05:00

I'm spending my Sunday night crinkling a quilt and baking cookies (yes, that is actually the only thing I do in my free time- bake- or so it seems! Haha)

The commissioned baby quilt, my first quilt I've ever sold (and only the second I've ever quilted) is in the wash, it makes me nervous. I always imagining opening the lid to the washer and have a tye-dyed stained mess.

Here's a little sneak-peak-a-roo. I'm in love with that deep teal binding against the orange and brown. Yummy!

All solids are Kona, the front is a mismatch of different designers.

I am really beginning to enjoy the quilting process. Ask me again after I tackle somethin larger than a baby quilt though!!

Time to go put 'er in the dryer. Wish me luck!

Chels

A seriously good night

2009-12-10T17:17:00.001-05:00

I just got home from work. I fixed myself a nice hot mug of green tea and I'm in the process of making spice cake cookies (new recipe... Wish me luck!)

Then I plan on putting in The Holiday and doing some sewing!

Looking to be a great night in the making. Ahh

I'm aching for a movie night

2009-12-10T11:58:00.000-05:00

Cold cold cold cooolllldddd weather has hit us. We had 40mph winds yesterday and have a whopping 12degree high for today.

This weather has me yearning to stay in cuddled on the couch with a stack of favorites. I'm thinking the playlist would go as follows:

1. The Holiday

2. Serendipity

3. Sound of Music

4. PS I Love You

5. The Grinch

I know, I know, some of those aren't even Christmas movies but I am a sap for a good love story here and there!

What have you been wanting to watch lately?

Yesterday was Chris' birthday, so I had a big surprise evening planned for him - everything worked out beautifully! He couldn't have been more thrilled. I will be back to share more later!

Keep warm (I am - I'm wearing my bright purple Ugg's under my work pants today - hah good thing I don't get up from my desk too often!!)

A thought on backs

2009-12-03T22:35:00.003-05:00

I really love the look of pieced backs... But I just can't bring myself to get too wild with them. I usually keep it relatively simple with one stripe (a pieced stripe, yes, but just one!)

I see so many photos around blogland of these amazing backs that are about as intricate as my fronts!

This is my most recent back, I'm not gonna lie- I kind of love it. Even though it is super simple, it makes me smile!

(Those animals in Alexander Henry's 2D Zoo are so darn cute!)

How do you decide what your back looks like? Do you dive on with a plan or just start sewing and see where you get? Just curious!

Back to the cutting mat-
Chels

Things I Didn't Buy (1st edition)

2009-11-25T14:46:00.000-05:00

In honor of the upcoming Black Friday (for those of you non-staters, the day after Thanksgiving is considered THE biggest shopping day of the year, people are out waiting in lines for stores to open early-most around 3am and 4am-to get REALLY good deals, and then running around like madmen trying to collect all you came for. It's a blast!)

But anyways, that's my cultural lesson for the day! So, in honor of Black Friday, I am posting my first edition of Things I Didn't Buy, although it may need to become 'Things I Have Yet To Buy', or 'Things I Have Added To My Shopping Cart, But Haven't Clicked Check-Out, So I Technically Haven't Bought Them Yet' because some of these are really stinkin cute...

1) Paper Heart Shadow Box Art by SarahAndBendrix

They sell these gorgeous paper-heart-cutout-goodness thingys that come pre-framed in a shadow box. You purchase them individually, but does this picture not make you want to buy a whole wall full?!

2. Don't Forget Aged Sterling Silver Bow Ring by Whimsy Wire and Wool

This one is completely rational... I'm forgetful! I don't know how I've lived to the age of 22 without a bow tied on my finger!

3. Ride the Wind print by SpreadTheLove

I don't know if I love the quote or the hot pink yumminess of the background more!

4. Chanel Lover print by EmmaKISStina

So beautifully awkward, I love little imperfect pieces like this. Maybe I can relate because my drawings in art school never turned out looking quite like what I was supposed to be rendering!

5. Lilac Fingerless Gloves by Afra

I love arm warmers...gloves... scarves.... leg warmers... anything knitted that keeps me cozy really. It doesn't help that these are so frickin cute i want to wear them all year long! (Be sure to check out the insanely cute shawls and caplets in the store too!)

Ok, ok, enough wishlisting for me for today. Have a lovely afternoon (and safe travels for the holidays!)

-Chels

Strippin a King!

2009-11-25T09:03:00.002-05:00

I cut, I sewed, I ironed, I repeated. Whoa. After a few hours I now have 5 coin strips long enough for a king size quilt!

I will DEFINATELY be taking this to someone with a long-arm to quilt once I get the top finished!

(those aren't scraps by the way, that's a portion of the pile resulting from a chain piecing bonanza!)

Sunday [Fabric] Funday

2009-11-22T11:22:00.003-05:00

Hello hello!

It's another beautiful, sunny day here in Indy. I woke up in a great mood and couldn't wait to dive into this pile that I've been mulling over for the past few months. I jut couldn't decide on a pattern. This plagues me so often - I have piles of pulled fabric sitting everyone but don't dare to bring a rotary cutter to it until I decide on the perfect pattern.

So here she is... a fun lil collection of teals, greens, whites and browns. I'm planning a coin quilt of sorts, but with a little bit of a twist. More to come later! ;)

What's on your agenda today?

Boisenberries and plums, cherries and red hots!

2009-11-21T09:29:00.001-05:00

Check out this stash of lovelies that were waiting on my doorstep when I got home from work yesterday.
I've been dreaming of a reddish, purplish, pinkish, rich, warm, perfectly cozy quilt for months. After many disappointed trips to Joann fabrics (they never have the Kona colors I want!), I ordered a handful of 1/2 yards from Pink Chalk Fabrics.

I have nothing but good things to say! I ordered them on Tuesday (along with about 12 other fabrics but I will share those at a later date) and they were here on Friday. That was my first time ordering fabrics online, boy was I nervous. They came perfectly packaged and I dug into them like a 6yr old on Christmas morning!

What exciting things do you have planned for this pretty fall weekend? (Indy is sunny and 40's today, what a welcomed break after a week of rain). I'm spending today fabric shopping for a commissioned baby quilt and sewing!

Sew somethin' sassy! -Chels

When you wish upon a star...

2009-11-19T22:24:00.003-05:00

You might be able to make a wonky star without being short on your corners!

This is what I've been working on lately. It's my first stab at wonky stars and Ive had my fair share of short corners on the blocks that have points. I guess I am laying my triangles down too wonky? Who knows! Anyone else have this problem?
It basically is like when I trim my points block to 4.5" x 4.5" there's one corner that is just shy of being squared up.

Practice makes perfect I suppose!

Not in our house!

2009-11-19T09:05:00.001-05:00

That's been the slogan of the Indianapolis Colts for quite some time now. They really brought it back Sunday night against the Patriots!

I had a terrible sore throat and was tempted to leave about halfway through the 4th qtr but we decided to stay. Ssoooo glad we did!

Here's Chris & I celebrating the win! 9-0, I love my Colts!

Happy Tape = Happy Christmas!

2009-11-13T09:23:00.000-05:00

Shh... I'm supposed to be working, but I had a revelation on my way in to the office this morning. And by revelation I mean I was daydreaming about crafty things instead of focusing on the road. It's almost a morning ritual nowadays.

I do my best thinking in the car. Or the shower. Where do you do yours?

Off track, sorry. Anyways I decided I wanted to wrap all my gifts in craft paper. Then I figured I would be more environmentally friendly and wrap them in leftover newspaper and paper grocery sacks.

This is where my happy gift-giving comes into play...

Hello, the answer to the worlds problems - happy tape! Those Japanese sure know a thing or two about making me smile - adorable fabric, spicy tuna rolls, happy tape, heck even my boyfriend is 1/4 Japanese!

But seriously, how cute will this look on a Classified-ad-wrapped-gift?!

Nothing says straight from the heart like last week's sudoko.

(Photo is property of Tina Rice at Happy Tape; product can be bought here. I purchased the Waterfall 5pk, but I must have snagged one of the last few because I see it's now sold out.)

Yippee!

2009-11-11T22:38:00.001-05:00

I presented the Cindy Loo Who quilt at the shower this afternoon... Not only did the mama-to-be love it, I also got requests for three similar commissioned quilts!

So excited!

The Lil "Cindy Loo Who"

2009-11-09T22:29:00.003-05:00

I did it! I finished my first quilt that I quilted myself (usually I just do the tops and pay someone to quilt them)

I am calling this one Little Cindy Loo Who because the letters have made me think of Dr. Suess all weekend long as I've been working on this. And since I love naming things, giving my quilts human-like names makes the utmost sense ;)

Lil Who is made up of 12 blocks that are a little larger than 13" each. I made up the pattern myself, but can pass it along if anyone is interested. I quilted her in a grid of sorts (will post a photo of the back tomorrow).

I have this amazing sense of accomplishment right now... I hope my quilt high lasts all week!

I'm giving miss Cindy Loo Who away Wednesday at a baby shower luncheon... This is a bog step! I can't believe I'm giving away the first quilt I've ever quilted! I'm like the queen of hoarding! Haha especially anything with the smallest spec of sentimental value.

Phew, I'm ready for a few days of rest... Rest and fabric shopping. I'm hooked!! I can't wait to quilt some more tops!

C'mon baby, just a lil bit left!

2009-11-06T16:41:00.001-05:00

Things have been moving smoothly today! Love it when that happens! Finished the quilt top for the baby shower.

I plan on quilting it tomorrow- yikes. My first attempt at quilting on Bernie! Wish me luck!

Now it's time to get all the stray threads off my clothes and get ready for a night out with some friends. Italian food and good company- can't wait!

Let's give it a go, baby!

2009-11-06T09:02:00.001-05:00

How's this for gender neutral? This will be the first quilt I'm making specifically for someone else. I'm a little nervous!

I hope the little peanut appreciates my gift! I'm spending my day cutting, piecing & ironing. That's right I took a personal day off work to hang out with Bernie!

Call me crazy, but I'd much rather sew than be in the office ;)

I need your opinion!

2009-11-05T07:01:00.001-05:00

I've decided to make a quick lil baby quilt for a coworker who's due in January. It's a suprise that I'm giving to her at her shower but I need color/pattern suggestions!

Her & her husband aren't finding out what they are having, and the nursery bedding is light greens, browns, white & tans.

So, fellow fabric freaks, should I atfmept to coordinate with the nursery or find some bright childfriendly prints??

Also what is your ideal baby quilt size? Thanks all, I appreciate your help so much!

Pie in the pants!

2009-11-04T10:18:00.001-05:00

Chris and I had been debating Halloween costumes for the entire month of October. We knew we wanted to coordinate (maybe that's silly, but it's our first Halloween together so we are allowed to be all cutesy!)

About a week before the big night Chris came up with the best idea...

We were Nickelodeon Double Dare contestants! If any of you remember this show you know how ridiculous it was. Teams had to do "physical challenges" that usually involved lots of slime and/or whipped cream.

We made our helmets, tshirts and flags so overall I was a rather cheap costume!

We went to a couple parties and were a big hit! We entered in a costume contest and got in the top 10, but were beat out by KISS and a rather large "Michael Phelps" (complete with teeny tiny speedo & medals!)

How did you spend your Halloween? I've seen lots of cute pictures of party decor & costumed kiddos!

Red Velvet Elvis

2009-10-29T18:16:00.000-04:00

Does three posts in one day make up for practically three weeks of no posts? ;)

I've been baking! I made my favorite cookies today....

Red Velvet with Cream Cheese Icing. I could probably eat this whole spread of them! But alas, I can't. I have to save them for a Halloween party!