My Sugar Plums

2010 Christmas card

2010-12-15T11:39:00.001-08:00

Bold Bright Wishes Christmas

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View the entire collection of cards.

Oh my! It's been way too long..........

2010-07-10T08:07:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to take 2 of my kiddos to a fabulous summer dance camp in Indianapolis this past week. We all got to meet some superstars and my girls got to take dance class from them! The camp offered lots of fun activities for the kids "after hours" such as movie night, game night, and even synchronized swimming!

Keltie Colleen-a Las Vegas Rockette who has also danced in music videos and the movie Enchanted

Stacey Tookey, choreographer from the hit show, So You Think You Can Dance

Tokyo-choreographer

Chelsie Hightower-from So You Think You Can Dance & Dancing With The Stars

Double Up -brothers who have starred in dance videos

Kayla from So You Think You Can Dance

Erica-choreographer

and her assistant Morgan

2010-03-15T10:13:00.000-07:00

Please check out the amazing designs Blossom Street Boutique & Guests will have up for the next 2 weeks!

My FAVORITE color

2010-03-09T08:32:00.000-08:00

I am going to paint my bathroom Tiffany blue!

The Globetrotters Game!

2010-01-21T07:19:00.001-08:00

Sydney is on a competition dance team and they were invited to dance in the pre-game show. How exciting!

Jaden really enjoyed meeting some of the team after the game and got some autographs!

Rianna's 1st Communion Dress

2010-01-21T07:08:00.000-08:00

She found a dress! And even better - it was off the rack and 15% off the price to boot!

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

2009-11-26T08:01:00.001-08:00

I am most thankful for these things. First, I am thankful for my mom and dad because they are my family. Next, I am thankful for my dog Sadie because she loves me and she is fun to play with. Last, I am thankful for God and Jesus because they help me do my work. Thanksgiving is a special time to be thankful for these things. written by Rianna Schultz, 2nd grade

Give Away Today

2009-11-11T08:38:00.001-08:00

Check out the daily give aways on this blog, Monday through Friday!

NYC - How spectacular!!!!!

2009-10-26T15:33:00.000-07:00

We had such a great time on our 4 day, girls only trip to The City!

From the top of the Empire State Building

"Sam & Ella"

2009-08-29T15:22:00.000-07:00

"Sam & Ella" were playing lots of nasty games in Jaden's belly! Poor little guy! He missed a whole week of school already and had to be hospitalized to treat the dehydration. I don't usually scare easily, but this really scared me! I felt so helpless watching my son just lay there, writhing in pain, and having to get up to the bathroom every 30 minutes. Thankfully, he has rounded the corner and is starting to eat again!
The doctors have thoughts that he acquired this nasty Salmonella bug by touching the reptiles at the Aquarium at the City Museum in St. Louis, when we visited just a few days before school started. That is the only connection to the bug; and the delay in symptoms was probably due to not actually eating large amounts, but rather contracting only a few organisms through the brief contact.

I can't wait 'til he is eating us out of the house again, LOL!

I had to get me some......

2009-08-11T20:01:00.000-07:00

these watch bands are TDF!!!!
I got a watch face and 2 bands. I can see more in my future though;)
You can check them out here!

Candy Wrapper Bucket

2009-08-10T17:55:00.000-07:00

How cute is this??????
You can find the directions here

Check out my new listings on ebay!!!

2009-08-01T08:59:00.000-07:00

The Sock Frog!!!!!

The custom 2 piece set

The necklace

The bracelet

Check out this great site!

2009-07-25T07:01:00.001-07:00

A New Giveaway.......

2009-07-18T13:49:00.001-07:00

Look.......over HERE!

A Yummy New Side Dish for the Grill

2009-06-28T07:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Syd and I went to a pool (B-day) party. It was a cookout and we had THE BEST green beans ever!!!!!! Bacon wrapped green bean bundles!!!!! Here is the recipe

I think you know what we are having for supper tonight;)

Raffle for a good cause!

2009-05-13T17:23:00.000-07:00

Blossom Leigh Boutique design group on eBay has come together for a great cause! My niece Courtney is turning 16 years old this summer and is now old enough to walk in the 3 day 60 mile walk against breast cancer. She has decided she wants to walk and donate money to research in lieu of a sweet 16 party! She has a heart of gold.
Remember - Everyone deserves a lifetime!
This is a link to her page on the 3-day walk.
Courtney Emerson
Now our group BLB Boutique has decided to help her raise money by donating our time and expertise in making custom boutique items. We have 3 prizes to give away and are selling raffle tickets for $10 a piece. These tickets are numbered 1-100 and we will ONLY sell 100 tickets. Tickets are available for purchase from May 15th to June 15th. On July 1st we will draw 3 names. The first name drawn is the grand prize winner, the 2nd name is the 2nd prize, and the 3rd is the 3rd prize. You can purchase more than one ticket to increase your odds, but once sold out there will not be any more! We will announce the winners on July 1st for everyone to congratulate.
Here is our group's page
Blossom Leigh Boutique
The winners will work directly with the designer of each item won to create an item just how they want it including custom colors, sizing, etc. Each designer has a stock of supplies that will offer a large variety to choose from and the designers are committed to making sure you get EXACTLY what you want! See below for prize details and click on the designers name to see their quality work!

1st prize - Retail Value $350+
Cloche hat by Jenni of belle*elysse
Set of Bows by Monica of maddiesbowtique
Jewelry set by Karen of growing*up*with*rosy
Dolly set by Nancy of luvnstitches
Library Bag by Christy of little*shamrocks
Girl's Set by Pam of liltumblebugs
Bling T by Patricia of one*boy*one*girl*boutique
Applique T by Nicole of baby*chloes*closet
Insa skirt by Amy of sewsweetstudio
Jacket by Trina of ooh!wee!

2nd Prize - Retail Value $150+
Dolly set by Nancy of luvnstitches
Cloche hat by Jenni of belle*elysse
Clippies by Monica of maddiesbowtique
Necklace by Karen of growing*up*with*rosy
Appliqe T by Allison of sugarplumsllc
Boutique Pants by Pam of liltumblebugs
Peasant Dress by Terri of pink*freckled*frogs

3rd prize - Retail Value $60+
Applique T dress by Beth of katkatcreations
Bracelet by Karen of growing*up*with*rosy
Pocket Pal by Nancy of luvnstitches
To purchase your ticket(s) simply send an email to this address: deilke@sbcglobal.net with the number of tickets you would like and your paypal address. You will receive an invoice shortly afterwards. If you do not have a paypal account please let us know your preferred method of payment.

I am unbelievably hooked.........

2009-05-09T10:03:00.000-07:00

on the Twilight Series. I cannot put these books down!

Honestly, I have never read anything so captivating! I am on book 3 of 4 and I just started reading the series 1 week ago! Last night, hubby and I watched the Twilight movie. It was a very good movie, but it just skims the main points of the first book. You HAVE to read the books!

The Wedding

2009-05-09T09:45:00.000-07:00

Here are just a few pics from last weekend. Our batteries went dead very early into the weekend.

Rianna at the salon getting her pedicure & medicure!!! LOL!

Ready for rehearsal. She had me straighten her hair!!!!

All ready in the church basement.

The little ones. Aren't they cute?! The little boy is my nephew, Caden.

My mom, step-sister Nikki, and my step-dad.

My 3 gorgeous step-sisters: Lindsay, Nikki, Jamie

Our new baby girl!

2009-04-21T11:24:00.000-07:00

We picked her up last night. She's 9 weeks old and just adorable.

We call her Sadie and her Registered name is Pour Some Sugar On Me. This litter was named based on classic rock.

Dance

2009-04-15T13:12:00.000-07:00

Last night, we got a sneak peek of a couple of the routines for dance recital. Here is Randi

And Sydney in Hip Hop, trying on their costumes

And Syd showing us one of her hip hop "tricks"

The Easter Bunny

2009-04-15T13:02:00.001-07:00

The kids left him a nice little note and some carrots for a treat.

And he left lots of messy tracks to clean up!

I have found my Elvis!

2009-04-13T09:32:00.000-07:00

I never quite understood the "love" of Elvis from my mother's generation. You know, those who get weak in the knees at the mere mention of Elvis or a song of his! Now I get it. I have found my Elvis! There is just something about him and his voice, his face, his edginess, everything!

The Newest Member of our Church

2009-04-06T12:50:00.001-07:00

Bruce is officially a Catholic! I have never asked him to convert. We've been married nearly 10 years and we have been raising the kids Catholic. I am not one who believes in making a person join you in your own religion, not even a spouse. But he did it, and on his own I might add. He met with Father & read "the book". This week, he made his First Confession. Yesterday, he had his First Communion and was Confirmed. We are so happy!

We will be having another little one running around.....

2009-04-06T12:48:00.000-07:00

In just a couple of weeks, we will be bringing home one of these gorgeous little ladies!

March Student of the Month

2009-04-06T12:47:00.001-07:00

February Student of the Month

2009-04-06T12:46:00.001-07:00

Wow, it's been a while!!!!!

2009-04-06T10:45:00.000-07:00

Last month, my dad came down for a short visit and brought a doll house. It's a doll house that had been created for me, but I didn't even know it! I guess, when I was little, my grandpa started to build it for me. What a surprise to find out it was mine! It is quite an heirloom and more of a show piece than a play house.

New site and a fabulous giveaway!

2009-03-20T10:55:00.000-07:00

Just click on the ad to sign up for the free newsletter and to be entered in the giveaway of an embroidery machine!

Big Sales!!!

2009-02-28T06:36:00.001-08:00

I have listed all of my current etsy store items at a HUGE discount! Check them out here!

Also, my design group~BLB~is having a spring cleaning with lots of great deals on brand name and boutique items! Check it out here!

My poor Sydney!

2009-02-25T12:21:00.000-08:00

The last week at our house has been nothing but bad luck! But poor Syd jammed her foot into the corner of our baseboard trim and ended up in the ER getting stitches. She is off PE, recess, and dance til next Tuesday or Wednesday!

Gotta love her self-done pedicure;)

Our Disney weekend without the kids!

2009-02-22T15:27:00.000-08:00

Since Bruce had a CME course in Disney World, I got to tag along! We left on Thursday morning and came home Monday night. It was just a 3 day course for him, so it really was a mini trip. Unfortunately, we got horrible colds the day before we left. But we made the most of it!
It was very different seeing THE WORLD without our pint-sized ones in tow. The evening we arrived, we went down on the Boardwalk, where we stayed, and ate at the microbrewery~~~Fantastic food!!! It was fun sampling all of their different beers and deciding on a favorite. After that, we hit the dualing piano bar called Jellyrolls. What a fun spot, and we would have never been able to check it out if not for this trip! I had a Jellyroll (a 32 oz Kool Aid tasting drink).
Bruce's classes ended by 1pm everyday so we got the reduced park tickets. Day one we went to Epcot, where 2 of my favorite rides are: Soarin' and Test Track, and actually experienced each of the countries somewhat. We've never done that the 3 times before. We enjoyed snacks in Mexico and supper in Morocco just before catching the evening fireworks show. Day two, Valentine's Day, was spent in Hollywood Studios. After getting a quick reservation for lunch at the 50's Prime Time Cafe (OMG, what an experience all on it's own! The wait staff made sure you were on your best behavior and using manners and if you weren't you'd definitely hear about it! When Bruce asked for more water, the waiter just picked up my water glass and filled his!). Then we thoroughly enjoyed the rest of the evening in the park, including a couple of "drops" on The Tower of Terror. After closing, we hit the microbrewery again, for another delicious supper. Sunday was Magic Kingdom~my favorite park! The rides I've never done during our last 3 trips, were on my to do list! Space Mountain and Splash Mountain for sure! And, if the day couldn't have gotten any better, we saw the lovely fireworks show as we were climbing up the steep incline of the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Coaster. So amazing!
Monday was spent packing and last-minute shopping at Downtown Disney. We traded our first pins and now Bruce is totally hooked! Once getting checked in at the Orlando airport, we had ample time to shop and have an early dinner. We now have a new favorite restaurant~~The Macaroni Grill~~~to die for!!! It's bitter/sweet that we are not close to one!!!

All in all, it was a fun vacation, but definitely not as "magical" as when we go as a family. There was definitely something missing without the kids!

Do you know the symptoms?

2009-01-24T21:15:00.000-08:00

It seems as though everyone I speak with, year after year, thinks of the flu as vomiting and diarrhea. The true influenza is quite different. This is the one you get the flu vaccine for.

Cold vs influenza: What's the difference?
Although people tend to lump "colds" and influenza (commonly called "the flu") together, they really are distinct infections, caused by different viruses. A very bad cold cannot turn into influenza (although a person with a cold could certainly come down with influenza if he or she came in contact with influenza virus).

How can you tell the difference between a cold and influenza? The following comparison points out the similarities and differences. Of course, in the case of any severe or long-lasting illness, you should contact your doctor.

Symptom / Cold / Influenza

Fever / Rare in adults and older children, but can be as high as 102°F in infants and
small children / Usually 102°F, but can go up to 104°F and usually lasts 3 to 4 days

Headache / Rare / Sudden onset and can be severe

Muscle aches / Mild / Usually, and often severe

Tiredness and weakness / Mild / Can last 2 or more weeks

Extreme exhaustion / Never / Sudden onset and can be severe

Runny nose / Often / Sometimes

Sneezing / Often / Sometimes

Sore throat / Often / Sometimes

Cough / Mild, hacking cough / Usually, and can become severe

Andalucia

2009-01-13T08:53:00.001-08:00

Click here to see all of the beautiful creations made with the glorious fabrics designed by Patty of Modkidboutique!

2009-01-05T18:27:00.000-08:00

New Year's Resolutions......To make them or not to make them

2009-01-01T15:41:00.000-08:00

I don't always make New Year's Resolutions, but this year I did make some. Not necessarily specific ones (such as losing X pounds or stop drinking diet soda), but ones that might make life a little bit more fun and enjoyable, kwim?

So here goes:

* take better care of myself so I can be a better wife, mother, and person (eat even healthier, exercise more, etc)

* Say "NO" to things asked of me that I have no desire to participate in or that I don't have time for (Amy and I WILL NOT direct the Christmas Program at Church anymore)

* Re-evaluate the business: I always told myself that I would quit when it got to the point that it wasn't fun anymore and it isn't! I haven't been able to sew Christmas dresses for my girls in over 2 years (I have yards of Red Dupioni Silk sitting here, waiting to be made into holiday dresses). I am not making any profits on my sales and I have lost the "fun" that I had when I first started up. My true love is sewing children's clothing, especially for my own. That had been so hindered that I am more frustrated than anything at this point.

* I probably will not take any more custom orders, unless it is an ebay/etsy listing. Those will be offered in custom sizes and on a limited basis.

* I want to spend even more fun time with the kids. The business and others take so much time away from my quality family time and I am going to try to be a bit more selfish when it comes to compromising my family time. I also only have a few (8) months left before my baby girl goes off to school and I don't want to waste a minute of those 8 months doing anything but family and mommy/me time cuz I will never get those back! There will always be time for business and helping others. I am just too busy as it is! I don't need to save the world and I don't need to put out everyone's fires!

* Finish organizing my sewing room; it's been a disaster for the whole entire time we have lived in this house!

* Go through more boxes in the garage. We need to de-clutter out there too!

* Check into nursing jobs in the area. When Randi starts Kindergarten in the Fall, I might want to get something part time and feel like the educated woman I really am.

A few Christmas Pictures!

2008-12-26T12:59:00.000-08:00

At our house right after Christmas Eve Mass - (Rianna and Jaden had to carry Baby Jesus up to the manger scene at the altar at the beginning of the service).

In their new PJ's right before opening some presents.

Crazy Hair Day

2008-12-26T12:55:00.000-08:00

Last week, at school, was school spirit week! They had a school colors day; a crazy hair day; a silly sock day; PJ day; and (if they would have had school) Christmas color day. Of course, I had to take pics of the crazy hair-do's!

It's about time!

2008-12-11T07:49:00.000-08:00

The state of Illinois lets out a huge sigh of relief!

The arrest of the Governor

Apparently, he has been under investigation for the last 5 years. How he got re-elected for a second term is beyond me!

Maybe it was bought?!?!

Will Sugar Plums LLC continue????

2008-12-11T07:04:00.000-08:00

I knew that there were tougher restrictions coming out for children's toys because of the problems with lead in goods from China recently. This has much further reaching effects than I imagined and I'm shocked that I haven't heard about this before now. It affects each and every one of us that produces anything intended for children under the age of 12 - yes, even us little cottage industry moms selling on Ebay. As the testing requirements stand now we will all be out of business come February 10th or face fines and criminal penalties. Visit these links for more information.

http://www.cpsc.gov/ABOUT/Cpsia/legislation.html
http://www.handmadetoyalliance.org
http://www.cpsc.gov/library/foia/advisory/322.pdf
http://www.nationalbankruptcyday.com
http://www.fashion-incubator.com
http://cpsia-central.ning.com/

Okay if you really read it, basically we may be able to sew as well it will be really really hard to enforce these laws on every crafter, however, this law will definitely effect the Salvation Army, the Goodwill, Boutique Consignment store, Gymboree, The Gap, Walmart, pretty much any business that sells clothes, because it is not the responsibility of the manufacture of products to ensure safety but rather the seller of the product, so essentially each product being sold needs to be tested, it is expensive to test products, and small businesses will go bankrupt, and well I see big business just stopping, as they won't make money... no more donations so no more free clothes to those that are poor, and well all children's clothing will go through the roof... no more $5 shirts...testing alone is $100 per shirt at minimum... and I am not an extremist but this law is extreme.

Gifts Under $30

2008-12-02T08:42:00.001-08:00

Just click on the ad to be taken to the listings!

Have you been naughty or nice?

2008-11-22T18:10:00.000-08:00

We took the kids to see Santa today.

Jaden asked for a Star Wars Wii game.
Rianna asked for an American Girl Doll, didn't matter which one.
Randi asked for a real, live puppy.
Sydney asked for the American Girl Doll Josefina.

Wonder what he'll be able to bring?????

Kandy Kisses Black Friday Giveaway!

2008-11-21T07:23:00.001-08:00

Click here to go to her blog!

A few Disney pics we got with our video camera

2008-11-20T12:46:00.000-08:00

These aren't the best pictures, but they will have to do until we get the Disney photo cd next week.

Done....finished.....

2008-10-19T09:29:00.000-07:00

The kids' costumes are finally finished! All completed in 1 week....can you see and smell the smoke from my sewing machine and serger?!?!?! Here they are trying on their sets, Sydney wasn't in the mood to try hers on~go figure! Bruce insisted they should have tails too, so I quickly made some up to pin on their backsides!

2008-10-10T12:35:00.000-07:00

3 inches!!!

2008-10-09T13:11:00.000-07:00

It doesn't seem like a lot, in terms of measurement, but what a change 3 inches has made on Sydney! We let her get that much cut off the length of her hair. It was really had for Daddy to give the go-ahead, but she sure does look cute! And she really loves it, which is very important as well!

She wasn't thrilled about getting her pic taken with wet hair, but that was really the only opportunity we had last night.

A "Laugh Out Loud " for Friday!!!!!

2008-10-03T09:41:00.000-07:00

A remedy for scratched CD's & DVD's

2008-10-02T22:02:00.000-07:00

Check out this post by Samantha of The Handmade Dress. What a great tip!

We're going to Disney World!!!!!

2008-09-24T12:09:00.000-07:00

Funny story.....Last week we got a flyer in the mail; certain dates in the value resorts in Disney were going to be $59 per night. I have never seen the prices so low, so I started dreaming about a vacation there, even though I know we cannot even think about going until our old house sells. It's been 3 years since we last went and I am so anxious to go again. I did check into flights, but let me tell you, the flight alone would cost more than our whole Disney vacation!

Anyway, when Bruce got home from work on Friday, I handed him the flyer. He looked at it and held it strangely in his hand (like he was going to tear it down the middle). He said "You know what I'm doing?" I replied "going to tear it up?". He then proceeded to tell me that, for some time now, he has been stashing away a little bit of money from each paycheck into an account~exclusively for Disney! He said he had enough saved for the vacation minus the flight!!!!! I was instantly in tears!!! He said he wanted to wait until my birthday to tell me, but the moment was too hard to pass! So needless to say, we booked the vacation the next day and we leave Friday, October 24th!!! We are driving down (we have driven to Disney twice before), staying 5 nights at a value resort, have 4 day park hopper tickets AND we are doing the Not-So-Scary Trick or Treating on the 30th!!!!!! I don't know who is more excited: the kids or us!!!! So the next few weeks will be busy, busy, busy!!!!!!

The Effects of IKE

2008-09-24T11:56:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of our beautiful Riverfront Park. It is under water. The IL River crested this past weekend and this is how it looks now.

She wore an itsy bitsy, teeny weeny, yellow polka dot bikini..

2008-09-12T08:49:00.001-07:00

One of our last days in our friends' pool. The girls had their new suits on!

And this is how Randi responds to a full afternoon of swimming...

Randi's 1st day of preschool

2008-09-12T08:47:00.000-07:00

Yes, she wore the same dress as Rianna. It fits the both of them perfectly! She started on Monday and will go Mon/Wed again this year.

Labor Day Supper was less labor-intensive....

2008-09-04T10:28:00.000-07:00

with the help of R & R! Rianna requested scrambled eggs for supper, so I obliged! Randi wanted to help, especially since she saw Rianna helping with the eggs, so I put her on the toast station~complete with Grandma DoDo's homemade rhubarb strawberry jam!

With my little helpers, making supper was a breeze!

Finally....1st day of school pictures!

2008-08-28T14:20:00.000-07:00

The kids started on the 19th. Sadly, I didn't get a clear pic of Sydney and her teacher:( It was so blurry you could hardly make out who was in it! Here are Rianna and Jaden with their teachers for 1st grade.

And here they are on their 6th birthday!

The Blonde Bomb

2008-08-25T18:31:00.000-07:00

Last Monday, I took the kids to the park one last time before school started. I was snapping pictures the whole time and when I got home, I fell in love with some of them, especially this one~~

My Favorite Clothing Store.....For ME!

2008-08-13T20:59:00.000-07:00

BMOSS Clothing Co.

They are having a huge one-day sale tomorrow (Thursday)! I might just have to go! I received an email to both of my email addys and hubby took a phone call from them, reminding me of the sale! Hmmmm....does that say I am a good customer of theirs?!?!

Boutique Angels for Juvenile Diabetes

2008-08-11T11:14:00.000-07:00

Click here to be taken to my listing.

Pretty Toes!

2008-07-26T20:23:00.000-07:00

The kids have been going to dance camp. They have 2 weeks under their belt and only this next week left. Amy and I have been taking turns driving our little "Miss Montanas" on Mondays/Wednesdays. Well, we decided we would go a bit early this last Wednesday and surprise the girls with their very first pedicures! They had no idea! Sydney giggled and enjoyed the massage chair. She had beautiful little flowers painted on her big toes too! It was lots of fun for both of us!

Start your holiday shopping!

2008-07-18T13:10:00.001-07:00

Quilt giveaway!

2008-07-18T12:42:00.001-07:00

Check out this blog! Post a comment and you will be entered in a chance to win!

Just by accident......

2008-07-07T20:56:00.001-07:00

I think everyone knows by now, I am a very poor photographer LOL! I am not afraid to admit that! I was trying to get some half-way decent shots of a Christmas hoodie dress for an upcoming launch. I took Sydney down to the Riverfront park in hopes for something usable as far as pics go. Mind you, it was a 99 degree (heat index) evening and I am having her wear long sleeves and boots! I just started snapping.....64 pictures later I was back at home, downloading photos from the camera to the computer and I came across this one

Of course, this does not showcase the dress by any means, but both Bruce and I were so amazed at how beautiful this one was of Miss Sydney. She is at that awkward stage of not wanting to get her picture taken, at least not like she used to, and I find it difficult to get a natural pose out of her. I am going to have lots of prints made of this one!

Here it is in full size

We have a visitor.....

2008-06-30T13:18:00.001-07:00

Take a gander at what the kids found in the egress window this afternoon. I have no idea what kind it is either.

**Update** Our neighbor just retrieved it and said it was a snapper. It took a big bite out of the lawn when he set it down. I guess it had laid eggs in their flower garden and got "lost".

Sydney is learning to sew!

2008-06-27T10:57:00.001-07:00

I cannot believe she is old enough to learn! She really picks up on this stuff so fast too! She made a few burp cloths for her first sewing experience. I am so proud of her!

DCDS Recital 2008

2008-06-16T11:46:00.000-07:00

A Great Find!

2008-06-10T07:33:00.000-07:00

This is the perfect bag for summer! Use it for anything and also makes a terrific diaper bag for the chic mommy!

Music

2008-06-04T10:33:00.000-07:00

I've added music selections to my blog! Just scroll this page (down-for now) and pick your favorite. I didn't want to just let it start playing, for those of you at work;), so you can scroll through my list and find something you like. I will be updating my blog soon, so it may look different in the near future.

Houston, we have a problem!

2008-05-31T06:17:00.000-07:00

I am experiencing technical difficulties. Please be patient!

Catch-Up

2008-05-18T14:40:00.000-07:00

Well, it seems as though I have a lot of catching up to do on here! May is such a busy month for us.

Sydney had her 1st Communion on May 4th. She was just beautiful! Right after she received communion, she got very pale, sweaty, and nauseous! Hmmm....wonder what that meant?! Nerves, perhaps? Can you imagine her on her wedding day??!!

On Friday, May 16th, Rianna's class entertained the parents with a Patriotic Play. They also sang songs about what they've learned throughout the school year. Some even in Spanish, and many in sign language! I cannot imagine how much work it takes for Mrs. Jump to coordinate this wonderful little afternoon!

Since Sydney's 8th Birthday was on the 17th, (Saturday) we decided to let her have her very first slumber party (Friday night)! It was lots of work, but really fun! The girls made their own fuzzy flip flops! I think I have a Hannah Montana hangover, LOL!

Hope, Faith, & Generosity

2008-04-27T18:58:00.000-07:00

If there was EVER a time to bid on an auction, this is it! Unfortunately, for these 2 families, heartache has struck in the worst ways possible.

I ask all of you, please take a look at all of the auctions on ebay titled Team Renee .

Check out the blog here.

**I would like to add that 100% of the proceeds go directly to both of these families.

TGIF!

2008-04-11T14:42:00.000-07:00

What a week it's been! Both good and bad.........

Everyone here that had eye and dental exams came out with good check ups! Very good!

At dance on Tuesday, we got to see Randi's recital routine (still a work in progress) and got some video footage too! We also got to take home her sweet little costume!!!! Cannot wait for recital!!!!

Bruce is now on staff with the University in Peoria and will begin precepting Medical Students in December. Woo hoo! We are very proud of him and his accomplishments.

The father of a good friend of ours passed away on Thursday. Randi and I attended the funeral service this morning. Lots of hugs and prayers go out to Ren and family.

On Tuesday, we accepted an offer on our house, at our listing price. It's been on the market for 1 1/2 years now. Closing set for April 25th.

We just found out, this afternoon, that the buyers have backed out of the offer on our house. This is the second time this has happened to us with this house. Exactly one year ago, another couple's offer fell through. We must really have bad carma with this monsterous house. At this point, I don't even know what to say or do. It was such a blessing to have accepted the offer just a few days ago. I just don't know why things happen the way they do??????

March Student of the Month

2008-04-06T08:36:00.001-07:00

Well, we officially have had all 3 of our school kids receive this honor! We are so proud!

Custom Circus Set, sizes 2-8

2008-04-06T08:33:00.000-07:00

I just listed this on ebay

Check it out here

Newly listed, priced to sell, ready to ship!

2008-04-03T10:58:00.000-07:00

Just listed this on ebay. Size 3T/4T

Here's the link

Busy, Busy!

2008-03-29T07:34:00.000-07:00

Last Monday, I spend a part of the day cleaning up the "mess" the Easter Bunny left at our house. He must have had a great pedicure right before the holiday!

Gotta love those bunny tracks!

And, of course, he had to have a nibble of carrot!

The week has flown by. Not sure whether it was because I took the kids up to Mom's for the weekend or what?! Yes, I made the trip (500 miles, one way) by myself with all 4 kiddos! Bruce had to work and the next available weekend for a family trip up north wouldn't be until July. Had to take the opportunity. It was good to see the entire family (aunts, uncles, cousins, etc.)as well!

I am hoping to have a few new listings up on ebay and etsy this coming week so check back if you're interested!

Strawberry Lemonade

2008-03-03T07:41:00.000-08:00

I finally finished this set that I had started over a week ago! I was so glad to finish, and also pleased with the final results. I even had to do the shoes too! It was terribly windy yesterday, but warm (like 66)! Now today it is 30-ish and rain/snow.

2008-03-01T19:40:00.001-08:00

Valentine's Day Party!

2008-02-17T21:33:00.000-08:00

I was able to slip into Jaden's classroom and help out a bit with the party on Friday afternoon. It was fun and it went by quickly. Here is a pic of Jaden wearing the hat he made.

The evening before, he and Rianna made soap petals for the teachers.

2008-02-17T21:27:00.001-08:00

This link will fill you in on the details.

Rianna~Student of the Month!

2008-02-15T05:54:00.000-08:00

We were a bit surprised, pleasantly, when Rianna came home with an official note from the school that she was chosen for Student of The Month in her class! We went to the assembly at school where she was presented a certificate and was entered into a drawing for a $50 savings bond! We are so proud!!!

Future Cheer Leaders?

2008-02-08T08:43:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday, Sydney and Rianna went to a cheer clinic, sponsored by the Havana High School Cheerleading Squad. They had a great time! During the entire waiting period right before parent viewing, Rianna and a couple of friends were constantly making pyramids! So cute!

Just listed! Sweet Candy Girl

2008-02-07T11:17:00.000-08:00

You can find it here, on ebay, ready to ship!

Yippee!

2008-01-31T19:19:00.001-08:00

I finally got one of my sewing machines back, what a relief! During my long wait, I managed to cut out numerous sets, ready to sew when I finally got the chance again. Well, this morning, I managed to accomplish a Sponge Bob appliqued tee, a circus themed appliqued tee, and this set for Randi (it actually fits Rianna too). All finished by 11:30 this morning! Both patterns used are found on YCMT, The Patchwork Peasant Top by RMX Designs, and the GUWR gauchos. I thought this would be the perfect set to wear this spring!

The 100th day of school!

2008-01-31T19:14:00.001-08:00

Tuesday marked the 100th day of school here. The Kindergarten classes really celebrate with lots of fun activities, special snacks, etc. Of course, I couldn't let the day go by without making them some quick appliqued tees;) Bruce reminded me that I had made Sydney a tee for her special day 2 years ago. Here are the dynamic duo:

Sydney finally did it!!

2008-01-30T16:20:00.001-08:00

She finally got brave enough to sit in the ear piercing chair at the mall and let the gal pierce her ears! We have been in that chair many times over the last 2 years, but she overcame whatever fear she had been having and went through with it! I am very proud of her. Daddy took her to the mall, to get her ears done, then out for a steak dinner!

Finally......a date night with hubby!

2008-01-27T16:20:00.000-08:00

We went out for a bite to eat, then on to the movie theater where we saw The Bucket List. Very good, in my opinion, but you do need a few tissues. It was refreshing to see a good story without all of the filthy language, violence, etc. It has inspired us to make our own bucket lists!

Random updates

2008-01-24T08:36:00.000-08:00

Boy, it sure was hard to send the kids out to get on the bus with a temp of 6 below 0 this morning!
Also, I will be posting some new pics soon....Sydney has something to share!!!
I think we might be on the mend, for now. Thank goodness!
I will be getting my sewing machine back from the shop on Tuesday!!!! Very excited for that!
The van rolled 100,000 miles last week, can you believe that?! I am so ready for the Jon & Kate plus 8 van, LOL! It's a Dodge Sprinter. Sydney took along a friend to the movie on Monday (no school due to MLK jr. day) and we had to take 2 vehicles! We have so outgrown our minivan. I cannot wait until the old house sells so we can start thinking of getting something more suitable. Keep your fingers crossed for us. That place has been on the market for a 1 1/2 years. Two mortgages are very tough on the budget!

UGH!

2008-01-13T10:34:00.001-08:00

Oh what a sickly family I have right now! A few of us had just finished
antibiotics for strep right before leaving on our Christmas trip. When
we came back on the 26th of December, Rianna and I had strep. Then on
New Year's Eve, Sydney came down with this strange 5 day vomiting
thing. And, of course, we cannot all get it at once, or even slightly staggered; everyone is taking their turn week by week. I am just plain
exhausted! I am so sorry I haven't been around to update things here
much. I have found myself buried in laundry, dishes, and medicine cups. At this point, I truly believe we should purchase stock in Clorox and Lysol!

I did find a moment to list my best selling earrings on ebay
this morning though. You can find them here.

And to add to my stress, both my regular sewing machine and my
back-up have decided to crash on me! Most of you know, those machines
are my big stress reliever! EEEEKKK!

How precious!

2008-01-03T13:12:00.000-08:00

Our family (the 6 of us, my mom, step-dad, sister, brother-in-law, & their 3 boys) spent a couple of days at the WI Dells instead of exchanging Christmas gifts. Here are the kiddos after a hard, full day of swimming!

The Christmas Program

2007-12-29T13:05:00.000-08:00

This is the program Amy and I had to throw together in 3 weeks time. We worked really hard on this! Sadly, I only have these pics; I was directing and Bruce was on sound.

And here is my little angel

November Student of the Month!

2007-12-29T13:02:00.001-08:00

I know, I am so behind on posts here. Had to share this one, we are so proud!!!

Twirls For Girls

2007-11-21T08:10:00.000-08:00

"Twirls for Girls" Campaign to Provide Handmade Clothing for Donated
Dollies

Salt Lake City, Utah. November 16, 2007 -- As part of their ongoing
mission to "make" a difference, a team of crafters/authors from
YouCanMakeThis. com have come together to launch "Twirls for Girls."
This month-long drive is set up to encourage the creation and
donation of handmade doll clothes to Toys for Tots during the holiday
season.

The "Twirls for Girls" website provides free, downloadable patterns
for making simple, yet adorable, doll clothes. The patterns, written
in "eBook" format, include step-by-step instructions so that even
those who are new to sewing will have success with these projects.
The completed items can be taken to any of the 601 Toys for Tots
donation centers nationwide, where they will be matched up with
donated dolls and plush toys. The children who receive the little
pieces of clothing will no doubt have hours of fun playing dress-up
with their new friends.

In addition to the free patterns, YouCanMakeThis. com has specially
priced a selection of patterns for the duration of the drive, and
100% of the proceeds from these patterns will be donated directly to
Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. The organization will use this
monetary gift to bring Christmas joy to needy girls and boys across
the country.

Participants in this effort are encouraged to share photographs of
their creations on the website. For each item donated, they will
receive an entry into a drawing that will be held at the end of the
drive. YCMT customers who purchase the selected patterns will be
automatically entered as well. So far, 24 sponsors have donated over
$1500 worth of gift certificates as prizes.

The Toys for Tots organization actually started with a handmade rag
doll. In 1947, Diane Hendricks crafted the doll as a Christmas gift
for a needy child. She asked her husband, Marine Corps Reserve
Officer Bill Hendricks, to find a charity that would facilitate the
donation. No such organization existed, so Bill founded one. Toys
for Tots was born out of a spirit of giving of oneself, and today
brings the joy of Christmas to millions of children across the
country. The name of this supplementary drive comes from a skirt
style that has become very popular in DIY sewing circles. "Twirls"
are full, multi-tiered skirts that are usually made from pieces of
fun fabrics. With the free pattern, crafters will be able to create
dolly-sized twirls skirts not only for this cause, but also for the
special little girls in their own lives and communities.

Mrs. O'Malley's Rx

2007-11-16T10:15:00.001-08:00

Mrs. O'Malley went into the pharmacy, walked right up to the pharmacist, looked straight into his eyes, and said, "I would like to buy some cyanide." The pharmacist asked, "Why in the world do you need cyanide?" Mrs. O'Malley replied calmly, "I need it to poison my husband."
The pharmacist's eyes almost popped as he exclaimed,
"Lord have mercy, Mrs. O'Malley! I can't give you cyanide to kill your husband! That's against the law! I'll lose my license! They'll throw both of us in jail!
All kinds of bad things will happen. Absolutely not! You CANNOT have any cyanide!"
Mrs. O'Malley reached into her purse and pulled out a picture of her husband in bed with the pharmacist's wife. The pharmacist looked at the picture and replied, "Well now. That's
different. You didn't tell me you had a prescription."

Cold Nights, Warm Hearts

2007-10-31T06:07:00.000-07:00

Just search BLB boutique on ebay!!!

Hello Out There!!!!!!

2007-10-28T17:27:00.000-07:00

I am getting close to 2,000 hits, but rarely a comment! If you visit, I would love for you to say Hi! Just click on the comment word and start typing! Very easy!!!

We went to our church's first ever trunk-or-treat and it was a very good time! Randi even won the costume contest for the little kids! I will post pics as soon as I get them loaded!!!

Bear-y Cute, Ready to ship size 3/4/5

2007-10-25T06:54:00.001-07:00

Here is my current auction!

My Birthday!

2007-10-16T12:07:00.000-07:00

My birthday was the 6th and it was a great one! My hubby planned a "surprise" b-day outing with 3 other couples to a very nice restaurant and then over to the comedy club right next door to it. This took place on the 5th; hubby arranged for a sitter and planned the whole thing, I didn't have to do any of it!!! Yippee! That's all I have ever really wanted was to not have to plan my own b-day and get the babysitter too!!! Well, it didn't stop there! On Saturday morning, I awoke to 4 little voices saying "Happy Birthday Mama" and then summoned downstairs where they had made me breakfast.

Yep, lemonade, soggy cereal, and chocolate pudding for dessert!!! It was too stinkin' cute!!!! And you can see the card, signed by all, including a $. How precious is that?!

Then, my hubby had arranged for a sitter to come at noon and he took me out on the Scenic Drive along the Spoon River. It takes place the first 2 weekends in October, and all of the little towns along the Spoon River have arts & crafts, farmer's markets, flea markets, yard sales, etc. It was so much fun and we were out for 6 whole hours!!!! We brought home pizza and had a lovely dinner with the kids. It was such a wonderful birthday and I wouldn't have changed a thing! (Well, maybe I would have made the temps in the 60's instead of the 90's).

Breast Cancer Awareness

2007-10-13T06:12:00.000-07:00

5% of all sales go to breast cancer research! I have mine, compliments of my sister, and I cannot tell you how many compliments I received while wearing it!!! Go and get one for yourself and anyone who will wear it with pride!!! I am not big into wearing political, racial, or religious graphic tees, but this is definitely a good cause to support!!!

Crabby Tote

2007-10-02T08:29:00.000-07:00

I love this tote! I think this is so creative and cute! I just had to share it! You can find the auction here.

Purple Sunglasses

2007-09-25T07:09:00.000-07:00

Last Friday I had to drop off drinks to darling Rianna's
classroom for snacks. The room was empty~they were at PE. Randi and I
just left the sack on her desk and proceeded to leave when we stopped
to admire their artwork all around their lockers. Her teacher had just
come down the hall and I had a moment to chat with her. I wondered how Rianna was doing in class,etc. We got to talking about how Rianna is such a good story-teller and has a phenomenal memory. Well, apparently last Wednesday Rianna
showed up to class wearing purple sunglasses. No, I did not let her
take them to school, she is just so sneaky (I believe she snatches
things on her way out the door to catch the bus)! Anyway, she tried to
convince Mrs. J that she had just had eye surgery and her mom (me)
insisted she wear them to school. Of course, Mrs. J didn't believe a
word of it (I don't know how she kept a straight face telling me about
it~I nearly wet myself listening to this)! Rianna can be so convincing!!
To the point, I think she nearly convinces herself of her own story!
Ah, my little free spirit will always keep us on our toes!!!