A Ribbon Aficionado

Wordless Wednesday

2010-09-22T11:44:00.002-05:00

Something You Probably Didn't Know About Wheat Flour

2010-09-17T11:00:00.007-05:00

You can fry chicken with it!! How cool is that? It DOES have a slightly different crunch to it. A good one in my opinion. We eat "fried" foods twice a month and I'm always looking for ways to make eating "fried" a little bit healthier(as healthy as anything fried goes, lol).

Something I noticed is that you can take the chicken and dunk it in the grease for 5 seconds and you'll get an beautiful golden crispy outside. Can't do that with white flour!!

Shop Update!

2010-06-29T09:59:00.003-05:00

2010-06-20T15:43:00.007-05:00

To the father that showed me what a father should be,

To the dad who loved me unconditionally,

To the father that showed me what I needed in a husband.

To the father of all 3 of my beautiful kids,
To the man that loves us all unconditionally and to the fullest,
To the father that works so hard so that we can have.

And my heavenly father who made this all possible.

Thank you for dying on the cross for my sins.

Thank you for sending me these great men.

Happy Father's Day!

Nastiest Candy Ever - A Disgruntled Customer Review

2010-04-17T15:24:00.008-05:00

ATTENTION ALL SKITTLES® AFICIONADOS:

Skittles® are my #1 favorite all around candy. I can usually pick up the newest kind and be completely satisfied (remember Sour Skittles®?Mmmm.). This candy has the some type of candy coating that is suppose to make the candy fizz , but instead of making it fizz, it totally makes you gag. I was totally disgusted, completely dissatisfied, utterly shocked! If you happen to be wondering if the "strong" words of dissatisfaction are truly necessary, go out and try some. WAIT, don't even spend your money. I'll send you some.....if you dare! Just leave a comment(first person inside the U.S. to ask and leave a valid e-mail addy will get a bag).

Lastly, I have nothing positive to say about this candy at all!

I'm going use the other bag with a class for a creative writing assignment as the nastiest candy they've ever tasted( cause kids love that kind of stuff!).

Crafting On The Go - Hair Bow Edition

2010-02-12T23:16:00.006-06:00

My version of crafting on the go had been limited to making the bows and waiting until I got home to do the gluing and attaching the clip. One day I came across my hubby's ac-dc adaptor that he uses in his car and knew that it could be a very useful tool for bow making. The ac-dc adaptor goes into the lighter socket and has the plug attached so you can plug in your appliance. This set up made selling bows ridiculously easy, seriously genius if I could be at liberty to say so. I could make and sell a custom bow within minutes. If you are a hair bow maker or a crafter on the go, all you need to invest in is the ac-dc adaptor.

Here is the my bag in the passenger seat. Yes, make sure you secure your bag, or else you'll be picking up stuff all over the place, lol.

And here is the set up in the car.

Oh, by the way, my trash can use to be a picnic basket that I repurposed into a portable trash can.

-Andre'a

Imagine It

2009-11-06T00:01:00.016-06:00

~Click here to imagine, print, and create.~

Leave a link so we can see what you've made!

Wordless Wednesday

2009-11-04T07:00:00.003-06:00

Buzzing right along.....

2009-11-02T11:20:00.004-06:00

As I was walking one day, a bee flew my way.
I started to swat it away, but I decided to let it stay.

Hello!

2009-10-08T09:14:00.007-05:00

Wacom Bamboo Tablet, small silver, for sale: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=160368218209

Birthday boy! I don't have anymore babies in the house :(

Made!

And I made this!

What have you been up to??

*Andrea*

Boo..

2009-09-03T16:48:00.003-05:00

I love this time of the year. I can almost see the leaves falling from the trees. Candy corn is in the store everywhere. I'm loving it all. I want to try and bake a pumpkin pie this year. Anyone have a tried and true recipe?

Wordless Wednesday

2009-09-02T10:13:00.004-05:00

Summer, it was nice knowing you!

2009-08-24T13:56:00.005-05:00

Summer is almost gone away in Alabama. We're working on our 3rd week of school. Here is a shot that I love but didn't turn out perfect. (Girls eyes both closed, the initial is covered up on both)

This one is the cutest! Would'nt cha love to know what they are talking about. Maybe Nikon should add a microphone to their next camera, lol.

In this one the orange really POPS! And yes, she is that adorable in person, lol.

**Andre'a

First day of School

2009-08-12T09:34:00.002-05:00

First day of School
Originally uploaded by Andrea Hair Flairs

I dreaded the first day of school because I new they'd be wearing uniforms this year and I wouldn't get to make Zoe her annual "First day" outfit. I purchased the 3 Way Spophie pattern by Mod Kid Boutique and I knew that I could whip up some really cute "uniform Pants for Zoe. I actually love seeing all the kids in their uniforms looking spiffy and ready to learn. This made my first day of school w/uniforms so much better!!

Summer is in full effect!

2009-07-11T11:38:00.002-05:00

Working on pageant #2 outfit....Be back in a while:)

Free Shipping Code

2009-06-09T13:05:00.004-05:00

Today I'm listing a bunch of my initial t-shirts for a limited discounted price. You can get FREE shipping when you purcase any shirt and put in the comment box "Happy 7th Birthday Zoe".

Its all about presentation!

2009-05-19T18:55:00.003-05:00

I love making fun little scenes/pictures with kids food or making happy faces. I just recently stumbled onto a blog filled with fun plate presentations for the little ones. Stop on by and have a look!

TGIF

2009-05-15T06:00:00.002-05:00

Whoooooo hooooo! As you may know, a mothers work is never done. But it is always great to have one less thing to do. Have a wonder*rific* fun filled weekend.

Frugal Painting

2009-05-13T06:30:00.000-05:00

This is one of my favorites. I made an easel for the kids to paint on. They loved it and wanted to paint everyday. All it is is a cardboard house with old ice trays.

I paid $1.00 for all of the paint and $1.00 for a pack of brushes.

Birthday Gifting

2009-05-11T06:50:00.000-05:00

When the school year begins so begins the birthday party invites. I have three children so that is at least 3 parties per month...give or take one. I decided to make all of the gifts this year and this is what I made for the girls.

A bow pen, ribbon note pad, and a tote bag. I used some Mod Podge to glue a piece of fabric to the outside of the notebook. Then I tied cute ribbons onto the spiral binding. This is the cheap $.10 notebook that Wal-mart sells during the school season. It has 3 holes on also, so I glued a piece of white paper to the book before the piece of fabric. Lastly I glued a chipboard letter on the front.

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-10T08:26:00.004-05:00

For all that you do, for all that you are, and for all that you wanted to be. I love you mom.

And just in case you missed it the first time, my poem about being a mom. It is written in "spoken word format":

Mother I Am:

Here I stand in a place where diapers and wipes are an everyday reality. My coach bag that was once filled with high hopes and unending dreams is now stuffed with a four year olds screams and a sippy cup filled to the brim with "mommy can I" and "she won't leave me alone".

Yet I drudge on. Trying to find that one sock that was stuffed with cheerios and dirty diapers that just didn't make it in time into the trash can. And if I'd gotten that extra hour of sleep that my four year old promised he'd give me....like the unidentifiable rash that lurks in my ash tray, like old cigarettes butts accidentally knocked to the floor by a 2 year old rage and wrath.....inside the bath tub that carries the ring that I so desperately needed from the man that carries the other half of my heart.

Traveling through the kingdom of unwashed clothes and wiping dirty noses, I come to the realization that one day this will no longer be. I will look back and smile the smile of the cheshire cat and poke my chest out really far while gazing into the distance of long gone trips to the potty when he just wanted to sit and multiple details for my car when she just couldn't help but to get sick. When Power Rangers held the key to momentary happiness and bliss all sealed together with one single kiss.....Mother I am.

This is a poem that I wrote sometime after becoming a mom. I was 20 something and had just had a baby boy, my last child. I was on a small dose of an antidepressant and trying to find my way through postpardum depression from my second pregnancy. I'm glad that I chose to pick up a pencil. The original poem had no periods, commas, or quotaton. Just pieced together like floetry

**This and all of my work is protected under the Digital Millinnium Act of 2008**

Presentation....presentation!

2009-05-08T07:50:00.005-05:00

My hubby did all the tying. Isn't this a neat way to package the gifts for the boys? I'm going to try to make an origami shirt out of tissue paper and tie the tie over it. Oh, its just a piece of 1 1/2" grossgrain ribbon.

Hello

2009-05-05T08:14:00.003-05:00

As of tomorrow I will be done with school, untill the fall. I plan on updating the blog and sewing loads this summer, so stay tuned. If you would like to see a tutorial or want me to make a tutorial of something, let me know.

Andre'a

Merry Christmas Everyone

2008-12-25T14:20:00.001-06:00

Christmas Holiday Comments

My brain hurts!

2008-12-12T11:54:00.003-06:00

I'm just about done with school for this semester.....studying really hard for my Wester Civ class. I've already passed my Sociology class with flying colors....An A!!! Yeah, now wish me luck....

Andre'a

Saturday Randomness.....

2008-11-22T15:02:00.005-06:00

I was watching the trailer for the new movie Seven Pounds, starring my favorite actor the other day and I think I have an idea to what the movie is going to be about. My guess is that the character played by Will Smith looses his family(maybe to a car accident in which he caused) and feels that he has nothing to live for. He then decides( some how, I dunno!!) that he must "right" his "wrongs" by becoming a live organ donor to seven strangers to whom he has chosen. ....How is that for a plot? Sounds good to me. The hubster and I were discussing this and he agrees completely with me. But, we are going to have to wait until December the 19 to see if I am correct. Watch it for yourself and tell me what you think.

I also have 15(summary) papers due this weekend and a test to study for so.....

Later gaters!!

Andre'a

Now in the shop!

2008-11-19T11:00:00.002-06:00

How to make my Fabric Flowers! And for all of my blog readers, you get yours for just $6.00! But that is just until 24 hours from right now! So go and get yours!! (ends on 11:00 a.m. Thursday morning, 11/20/06 cst.)

Use code:"ribbon aficionado" for your discount in the comment box. I'll refund it back to your after your payment has been made.

The shop....click here

~Have a great day!

America's First Black President

2008-11-04T22:29:00.002-06:00

Operation Christmas Child

2008-11-01T19:10:00.004-05:00

Christmastime is upon us and I was reminded so this morning while shopping at Wal-mart for groceries. This Christmas season the kids and I will make cristmas boxes for Samaritan's Purse to Operation Christmas Child. The idea is simple and easy. All you do is take an empty shoe box and stuff it with goodies (of approved items). Kids from all over the world, who might not have a Christmas with presents, will receive your goodies and be happy. Care to join us? If you are local and want to know where to drop off your box send me an e-mail at heyitsdrea at yahoo dot com. If you are not visit this link to get more information on helping out.

-Andre'a

A Tutorial From The 5 Year Old!

2008-09-25T07:00:00.001-05:00

Here is an activity that should keep your little ones busy for a minute while working on their fine motor skills. What you'll need:

1- out of date calendar

1- pen or pencil

1- eager child

The activity #1: Let you child practice writing his/her numbers in the empty box. How easy is that? I've bought ton's of activity books over the years and my little one thought of this one all by himself!

The activity #2: Play Bingo!

The activity #3: Play Number Polo! Roll all 5 dice in a cup and what ever number you roll that where you place your marker. You have to say "number polo" after you roll your dice or you loose a die(but you can pick it back up the next go around, instead of loosing a turn and because you want to be able to get the lower numbers also.......you might want to forget to say "number polo" a couple of times to get the lower numbers!) Roll You need:

5- dice

1-cup

15-30 number markers(beans, paper circles, dots, stickers)

xoxoxo,

Andre'a

Hi!

2008-09-24T18:50:00.003-05:00

I miss you all! Jon is turning the big 5 on friday. No more babies in my home, He is officially the big boy.

I have a test tomorrow....wish me luck! I also have two papers due tomorrow, and two papers due for Friday! Yeah me, lol.

This fabby headband needs a good home. $7.50 shipped to the first person to e-mail me at hairflairs at yahoo dot com with the headline "Spooky Headband Sale".

xoxo,
Andre'a

Hello September!

2008-09-01T18:10:00.003-05:00

Get Paid For Your Trash

2008-08-22T08:00:00.001-05:00

School has just started for us and will soon start for many others. Lunchtime is a time that creates loads of trash for many schools. I found a program that will pay you to upcycle Capri Sun, Honest Kids, and Kool aid drink pouches for $.02 per pouch and $.01 for other pouches(they'll pay for the shipping too!). And they don't stop there! The smart company is called Terracycle, and they will give you money to send in your drink pouches, 20 oz soda bottles, cookie wrappers, energy bar wrappers, yogurt cups, and corks. Now you might be thinking that $.02 might not be alot, but when you add it all up those cents start to make dollars. If you choose to do the 20oz plastic bottles you'll get $.06 per bottle and the other items yield different prices. You can choose to keep your money or choose a school or organization and Terracycle will donate the money on your behalf.

Now what do you think these people at Terracycle will do with these items? Send them to a recycling center? Terracycle will turn your trash into beautiful bags and awesome upcycled goodies and turn around and sell them. Target has some of these bags ready to buy online but not in stores.

Many of us crafters have already been doing this for a while. If you search Etsy for upcycled kool-aid pouches you will see many lovely items made by individual upcyclers. (this link will take you to a yahoo group)

It Happened!!

2008-08-21T09:43:00.009-05:00

It came and went! The first day of school. I didn't get to make Zoe an outfit, she wore her princess outfit that her dad picked out while at Disney. Still equally special indeed.

And then it was the first day of KINDERGARTEN for Jon!!

I did get to make something! I made Jon a nap mat cover from the left over Cars fabric, some extra soft minky fabric and a fleece blanket.

More Disney Pictures

2008-08-15T18:44:00.010-05:00

Finally some pictures

2008-08-12T22:11:00.005-05:00

Remind me to never take a vacation right before school starts, lol. No time to adjust for the kids makes me an unhappy mom.....

Do you remember that problem I was having trying to post the pictures to my blog a couple of posts ago? Well I figured out the issue....I forgot to resize the pictures before posting. Now I have a memory issue with my computer because of all the stuff I have loaded(stuff I really need) and my photos. I didn't manage to gather some photos. Here are a few from Orange beach in Florida.

Postcard Winners!!

2008-08-04T18:44:00.008-05:00

We have two winners for my postcard giveaway! The postcards will go out to Kira and Tyra's Family! Yea, I only had two people send me their info so I just included both. Your cards will be send off today.

We are home and getting adjusted to life after vacation, lol. We are also getting ready for school on Wednesday. Where did our summer go??

I'm in a mad dash to find some quick "school" inspired fabric or maybe just some cute fabric to make Zoe's first day of school outfit. Speaking of fabric, I made all of the kids a Disney inspired outfit to wear to Magic Kingdom. The girls got a pair of shorts and a tank-tee with an iron-on applique of 3 mickey heads. The boys just got a few iron-on applique mickey heads made from Cars fabric. My hubby went to the store for me to pick up the fusible backing for the appliques and he bought the kind that doesn't/ can't be sewn in...only ironed on. I didn't even know such a thing existed. It is out there and it works rather well. The kids outfits have been washed and dried with no movement from the applique. I started off making twirls skirts for the girls but the skirt was ruined by the serger when the knife refused to cut anymore! I was almost done, and it was rather cute for a rush job.

Pictures will come shortly after I figure out whats wrong with blogger. I keep getting an error message after I try and load some of the pictures.

Chow for now!

-Andre'a

Magical Indeed!

2008-08-01T19:14:00.004-05:00

We are currently on our Magical Vacation...We even stayed an extra day (today). I received a few e-mails asking where we were so...tada! We are headed to eat at the Rainforest Cafe in Downtown Disney. Many pictures will follow. I think................................. we'll be home tomorrow, lol. We are having too much fun. Anyone want a post card? Send me an e-mail to hairflairs@yahoo.com and I'll select the first sender with the subject title "Magical Vacation Postcard". Your choice will be Mickey and Minnie themed, Princess themed, or Florida themed. Good luck!!

Love,

Andre'a

Tutorial Saturday!

2008-07-12T14:48:00.006-05:00

Summer is in full swing and it is almost time to go back to school! Where did our summer go? We don't know but Aug. 6th the kids will be back in school (ALL of them!!), and I will be starting school Aug. 25th!!

I've searched the net for some fun and fabby tutorials that might interest you....and the all have to do with hair accessories.....Yeah!

First we have a tutorial from Laura Gunn from paint in my hair blog. She is going to show you how to make a cute snap clip button clip using scrapbooking button brads.

You can find in on the right hand side titled Button Top Brads. Click here.

Next is a few type of bows from the Ribbon Retreat. They are all in PDF format so you can download and save them. Click here.

And lastly we have reversible headbands from KCQuilts blog. You don't have to download anything for this one just click here.

Let me know if you decide to make any of them. You know how I love pictures!!

-*Ann Dray Ah(Andre'a)

*That's for you Julie!!

Mother I Am.......

2008-06-29T14:54:00.006-05:00

The Spoken Word * for those who are unaware

This is a poem that I wrote sometime after becoming a mom. I was 20 something and had just had a baby boy, my last. I was on a small dose of an antidepressant and trying to find my way through postpardum depression from my second pregnancy. I'm glad that I chose to pick up a pencil. The original poem had no periods, commas, or quotaton. Just pieced together like floetry.

***All my work is protected under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act of 2008.

Zoe is 6

2008-06-26T17:22:00.003-05:00

She reminded me that I forgot to add her 6 year picture to the blog, lol. She is officially six. Here is her outfit I made for that special day.

Cupcake With Sprinkles For Dinner

2008-06-26T15:53:00.010-05:00

Not to be confused with taking a cupcake from your last party or birthday and eating it for dinner. This cupcake is made from ground turkey, mashed potatoes and corn. Yummy! All you have to do is mix your favorite spices in with the ground turkey or ground beef, we used meatloaf seasonings,mix it up and place some ground turkey into the cupcake pan. We cooked the ground turkey at 350 for about 20 minutes......give or take a few. Took them out of the oven when they were 5 minutes away from being cooked. Placed them on a cookie sheet and then back into the oven for the remaining 5 minutes. This way you take them out of their juices from the cupcake pan and cook off the rest of the juice. Cook and mash your potatoes. Put the mashed potatoes in a plastic bag after they have cooled. Cut the corner off the bag and pipe it onto the meat. Sprinkle with corn and Bam....you have your dinner cupcakes!

A fun variation would be mixing in some food coloring with the potatoes. Something else fun to do is to cut or scoop a circle from the middle( without touching the bottom) of the ground turkey and replace with some ketchup. MMMmmmmn.

There is a breakfast variation made with sausage, grits, and scrambled eggs.........just in case you wanted to know.

No Postage Reguired!

2008-06-22T17:49:00.005-05:00

I've receintly discovered a site called Hippopost.com. It is a website where you can send a post card for free! If you allow them to place a tiny advertisement(from one of their sponsors*) they will send a postcard to your recipient FREE of charge. All you do is upload a photo (or you can use one they have) and type a messege, enter your senders info and then hit send! Easy Peasy. Oh, and you have to register also. This might be a fun activity for the kids to send a picture and greeting to a friend or family member.

What have you all been up to as of late? We are hanging out enjoying summer. Yesterday we went to our local water park and tonight we are going to the movies. Monday's are library day. Oh, and we are learning spanish!! Our local public school doesn't have spanish, so Zoe missed out(AP kids in training here!!)....And you know that you have to learn a language to go to college so we are starting off with spanish. We also have Chinese, German, and Latin on the list, but I won't start that until were finished with Espanol. And I digress....What are you all doing to enjoy summer?

-Andre'a

*What is the advertisement? I don't know just yet. I'll let you know when I receive mine.

Giggle...Giggle...

2008-06-19T12:15:00.002-05:00

I know you read the Wall Street Journal right? Chinese is the new black! Read all about it. Lol, good thing I took Chinese in high school instead of spanish - right.

-Andre'a

Your going to love this one....

2008-06-16T22:50:00.006-05:00

The ever so talented Arlette from the Polka Dot Pineapple has a friend who is giving a way an awesome gift! Wait for it.....................wait for it................................wait for it.....(waving magic wand).........FREE QUILTING....(insert automatic "ooohing", "aaahhing", and over the top clapping sounds). She will take one of your quilts-up to a twin size- and quilt it. How awesome is that? I have my first quilt still sitting here. It belongs to my mother in law-which was promised 2 years ago! Lol, she new I had to find someone to do the quilting or wait until I bought a long arm quilting machine. So I'm entering....and if you'd like to enter, just follow this link to Canton Village Quilt Works-BTW, she is a professional quilter. Yes, all the better. Now off you go....(here comes that wand again)......Poof.

-Andre'a (Your Fabric Fairy God Sista!)

Happy Father's Day!

2008-06-15T16:05:00.001-05:00

Friday's Fabby Finds

2008-06-13T10:27:00.007-05:00

I have a Fabby Find for you this week. Danielle from the "Oh So Twirly Boutique" makes these cute pillowcase dresses from fun and designer fabric. If your a swanky mom and love all things posh looking, you are going to love the Oh So Twirly Boutique. Just in case you've been hiding under a rock, the pillowcase dress is one of the most versatile piece of clothing for girls. She can wear it as is on a hot summer day, with long sleeves and pants on a cold winters day, and with a short sleeve shirt and leggings. The possibilities are truly endless. Not to mention the pillowcase dress can go from a cute dress, to a pillowcase baby doll shirt, to a pillowcase top. You will get your monies worth and beyond with each purchase. Zoe can't wait until she receives hers!

And while you are shopping you might as well pick out a matching fabric flower flair for her hair. You've seen them here on my blog. They are fun, unique, and made by me, so if you are having a bad hair day - you could totally get away with wearing one too! Head on over and take your shopping code with you. Enter JUNEPROMO in the coupon box and you'll receive FREE shipping on your purchase of $50.00 or more. I happen to know for sure that you can buy more than just one boutique item for $50.00. So go and get your shop on!!

-Have a great weekend.

Andre'a

BOGO!!

2008-06-09T14:12:00.003-05:00

Buy one and get the other half off! Today and tomorrow only.

http://www.andreashairflairs.etsy.com

-Andre'a

**Thanks for the heads up Kira!!

10 Things About Me This Week

2008-06-02T12:41:00.007-05:00

1. Getting the house clean for Zoe's Birthday party on Saturday.

2. Making Zoe's Birthday dress. Don't know what yet, but she'll have something. I don't want to use the skirt I was embroidering because it's white. I'm thinking of a quickie stripwork 1 layer twirls skirt with applique "6" tank top.

3. Washing, blowdrying Zoe's hair and finding a hairstyle that is suitable for a pool party.....Probably braids.

4. Starting training for Shop NBC(I work for West Teleservices at home). Took 2 test, both 100%....soooo much information..

5. Not talking about my husband on my blog.....(smooches...)....maybe a trim and not a cut?

6. Teaching my 9 year old how to wash dishes...and keep a clean kitchen.

7. Making a list of baby items I get to make for my best friend and her twins.

8. Backing up my photos.

9. Updating my portfolio.

10. Hoping I can get half of this stuff on my list done...

-Andre'a

A Girl In All Of Her Glory

2008-05-31T22:14:00.006-05:00

What are you doing on this last night in May? I'm trying to decide what to do with my hair. It has been this way for sooo long. When it gets too long I chop about 3 inches off only to have it grow back again and I keep repeating the same ole process...... But atlas, I am longing for something more glam/sophisticated. Maybe a bob, highlights, a lighter coloring. What ever it is, I'm ready for it. My hubby likes my hair down and long. I prefer it up and out of my face. I'm thinking about lightening it up and getting some layers. What do you think? Should I go blonde(Zoinks) or perhaps a shade of red? What ever happened to those sites where you could load up your picture to see what you look like with a specific color or cut?

-Andre'a

My Guerdon.....

2008-05-29T17:36:00.014-05:00

are my children's accomplishments and we made it through another school year. I'm so proud of them. Ian my eldest and favorite 9 year old received 3 awards 1- for A+B Honor Roll 2- Star Reader 2(Part of the accelerated reader reading program at the school) 3- Millionaires Accelerated Reader, which basically means that he read 1,505,453.00 words this school year. He was the only one in the 3rd grade to receive this award and the only one in the school to do it in just one school term. The others had last years average added with this year. Can you tell we love to read?? If you don't believe me I have the $78.00 receipt that we paid in library fines!! We love reading so much that we don't like to give the books back, Lol....Gotta make a joke out of that one....

Zoe graduated from kindergarten - she is now officially a FIRST GRADER! She feels so accomplished. She walked away with 3 awards also: 1-Kindergarten Diploma 2-All S Honor Roll 3-All S in conduct. And now you get to see the dress(sorry for the crappy photos-6 to 8 weeks and counting before I get to see my Nikon again...)! McCall's 5568. It was very easy. I used size 6 because I wanted it to look big like the pillowcase dresses look and added an extra 1/2 under the arms because she has personal issues with materials close to her skin...she only likes knits and briefly tolerates anything else I make her wear. If I would have cut it based on her measurements it would have been to close to her under arm. You should have seen how fast that green gown came off, Lol!! I added the striped fabric at the bottom because she had to sit on the stage on a bleacher and I was afraid she'd forget her manners and wouldn't keep her ankles crossed like young ladies should........how can you sit on a bleacher and cross your ankles..hmnn. Any way I let Zoe pick out the zipper at Hancocks and we were in a hurry so I didn't see that it was not an invisible zipper....opps! I would make this again for her in a knit top instead of dress and draft my own neckline, omitting the zipper.

The polka dots and stripes belong to Robert Kauffman. I paid $8.95 for 1 yard of each print, $.88 for the pattern, $1.27 for the zipper, and used the thread and interfacing I already had. Total cost of this dress is 20.05 not included my time. If I was going to sell this I would list it at $65.00....which includes the flower pin and or hair bow(size 6).
So what do you think?

10 Things About Me This Week

2008-05-26T15:31:00.006-05:00

1. I'm making Zoe's Graduation dress.

2. I just seen the preview of M. Night Shyamalan's new movie "The Happening". I'm still straddling the fence on this one. I love scary movies and I hope this one is scare worthy.....(I Am Legend was the last scary one I saw....yikes!!)

3. Just saw the trailer for "Hancock", Will Smith's new movie. Excited that I get to see him in a tight black leather suit.....

4. Thinking about cutting my hair. It is down to the middle of my back. I'm tired of wearing it in a ponytail, but I think that is the only relief I'll get this summer if I don't cut it.

5. Getting ready to do my first "Master Cleanse". I'm thinking the middle of June for

6 weeks. I'm excited. I don't have an attachment to food(which I think will help a lot) and I love lemons so my hopes are up.. We shall see how long I last.

6. Bought my first pattern for me. McCall's 5528 and I plan on making view A and using the sleeves from view C.

7. Stopped embroidering Zoe's tribute to 5 skirt. She is having a pool party for her birthday now. No need for a skirt, right?

8. Started cleaning up the sewing studio and organizing stuff.

9. Happy that school is about to be over and sad that this will be my last "season-summer" as a stay at home mommy.

10. Don't look for me this week. It is already started off to be a challenging one and I doubt that I'll have a lot of 'puter time. I'm thinking about you and I'll keep checking your blogs to see what you all have been up to! Have a great last week of May.

later,

Andre'a

Tada! Very long post.......

2008-05-23T18:06:00.017-05:00

I've been up to sew much and now I have a little show and tell. First up I've been making pillow cases. I'm trying to perfect my tension on my sewing machine(along with other techniques) and I started on one pillow case saying to myself..."Well that was easy. Maybe I should use up some of my fabric scraps". I hardly ever make my boys anything so I focused on them this time.

They both come complete with ribbon tabs(yes, my dear hubby I'm keeping them! I don't care how girly you think they might look). I still trying to decide if I want to include a button closure on the side to keep the pillow from falling out. It is one of my pet peeves! You know, you go to sleep and then wake up to find that your pillow case is all twisted and jumbled up? Ugh..... These fit the pillow perfectly and leave a 1" hang over the pillow.

It seems as though I had a bit of OCD with matching up the seams!! I'm glad everything turned out so perfect.

Even made some for a friend's son who is having a birthday tomorrow!
I also finished my second fabric photo! Pleat you very much:) Even made a material girl sign to hang with the picture. I tried to go with the graffiti kind of look while working on the signs. You can hardly see the "material" because I used the wrong background paper. Oh well, I'll try again later.....it will have to do for now. I love how you can fold a piece of patterned fabric and make some unique design of your own! I think that is what my hair flower obsession is all about.

Jon-Robert decided to do some crafting of his own....or some type of experiment actually. I couldn't even get mad at him. Instead we had to count the number of squares.......67. He really stopped at 20 but he was so proud of himself. I believe that every moment can be a learning experience. Yes, I could of gotten upset that I had to sit and wait 30 minutes again, yell for someone to bring me tissue, only to find out that we were totally out....But instead we will remember this day as being the day that Jon almost counted to 67.....but made it to 20. God bless us everyone.

I bought some soap from Cozy Moments on Etsy. It's a great store run by a husband and wife duo. Let me be the first to tell you that these people are just very good at what they do. This soap smells way to good to actually be soap! I bought the vanilla bean and the L.A.M.B(inspired by Gwen Steffani). I did look at her feedback first and determine that she was a stellar store worthy of my husbands hard earned money. What I did not know was that her stuff is actually better that Bath and Body Works....I know, pick your chin up! Those might be fighting words to some. -You know you have to use the shower gel, the lotion, and the spray just to have that particular "scent". And then it only lasts for 1/4 of the day. Well this stuff is off the chain. Not only does it smell "wonder-riffic-ly" pleasant, but it has a glorious lather and leaves you skin so soft, oh so soft. I have 1 sample left. If you want it it's yours....Do not blame me if you use it and babies start sucking on you, grown men won't stop following you, and women come out of the woodworks to ask you what your wearing... The soap is made with goat's milk and the soap scent that I have left is Peppermint Chocolate Oatmeal. Smells dreamy....First one to leave their e-mail addy and a comment will get it!!

Last but not least, I finally had some time to sit with my serger and figure out 99.7% of it's functions. Went through the entire book and practiced all the techniques. Here are a picture of the pintucks done with the serger. Don't know if I like them yet. The regular sewing machine pintucks look a little better - more chic, in my opinion. What do you think?

-Andre'a

Wordless Wednesday....

2008-05-21T09:05:00.003-05:00

For The Posh One

2008-05-16T11:10:00.005-05:00

I know your out there. You like anything unique and eyepopping. You want to have it...no matter what the cost(or maybe within reasonable cost). When you get it, you love it, and know just what to do with it. My dear friend, I have something your going to love.

Introducing my new line of Fabric Pictures. The first one is a Heather Bailey Fresh Cut and Amy Butler Lotus Dots combination. Nine quilted blocks of fabric fun and 4 bitty fabric flowers for your visual pleasure. Enjoy, the next one will be from Sandy Henderson's line Ginger Blossom.

Now in the shop! Have a great weekend.

-Andre'a

A Nerd By Any Other Name....

2008-05-15T10:14:00.003-05:00

Must have a degree. So this self professed "Nerd" must press on towards this new goal. I'm headed back to school in August, I even have a student number already!! So excited:) I'll be adding some stuff to my etsy shop soon to help pay for my new endeavor. Here is a sneak peak of something I'm currently working on.

-Andre'a

Order Pictures...

2008-05-15T07:32:00.003-05:00

Just thought you'd might like to know what I've been up to. I made 50 bow pens. This was not a hard task. My pen supplier no longer carried my preferred pens, so I had to order from someone else who thought it was okay to partially substitute my order with something else (without even asking)?? So that made my order late and I had to work in overdrive to get them done, after they shipped a second order of pens out(free of charge...gotta know how to bring the house down..we are all customers). Everything turned out great and my order was shipped on the second promised date. The black and white one is my favorite. It has a little bling button in the middle.

-Andre'a

Fa reeee...FREE.....free....

2008-05-14T13:24:00.003-05:00

Here is the scoop...

Designers and Buyers of Custom Boutique is having a contest. Head on over to see what all the houplah is about!!

Andre'a

Happy Mother's Day!

2008-05-10T14:09:00.000-05:00

We're gonna need another straw.....

2008-05-02T08:30:00.002-05:00

Let's talk music. No I'm not going to ask you to sing, lol. Do you have a theme song? I have a song and it sums everything up for me. Have you heard of Chris Rice? Well he sings a beautiful song called "Lemonade". I've been through a lot (as some of us have) and I've become an optimistic person. I believe in the happily ever afters and loving life whether my glass is half empty or full. Life is way too short to walk around bitter, right? This particular song is about an optimistic falling in love but I like to think this song is about me, my theme song. Thanks Chris.

If you liked that song be sure to check out this wonderful love song by Chris Rice. One of my favorites.

-Andre'a

Invisible H20 Paint

2008-05-01T11:49:00.007-05:00

I know it seems like all I do is make stuff right? Well my main job is being a stay at home mommy to this little guy during the day. We like to go to the library, playgroup, story times, and do crafts. One of Jon's all time favorite things to do is water paint. Now for this activity you will need a water gun(if you are against guns off all kinds you may use a simple bucket and paint brush) a wooden fence, and water. This activity is so much fun and not to mention a great gross motor activity. You simply give your child the tools and let him paint away. The best thing is that this H20 paint will disappear with no mess for you to clean up!! I know, I know...you can thank me later. Some variations would be blindfolded art, Simon says(Simon says draw a ....circle), ready set draw(how many items can you draw in one minute), and guess the drawing(draw something an you have to guess what it is).

...And maybe you can let the dogs have a try? Nah....

-Andre'a

Hip, Hip, Hooray It Looks Like May!

2008-05-01T08:12:00.003-05:00

One more size to go....to get back to my pre-preggers( pre pregnancy) size!! I can't do skinny because it does not suit me very well. My head is just too darn big, lol. Happy May everyone. See ya later.

P.S. Do you see how bad I need my camera back? Do you notice the black band on the camera? It is there to keep the batteries from falling out.

Dre'a

Extremely Rare Bird Has Been Spotted.....

2008-04-30T20:52:00.005-05:00

...and she is rockin' a sweeeeet flower flair! This is the 'Finch in a Flower Flair'. Go ahead and say that 3 times fast.

-Andre'a

Caper Pakes...er Paper Cakes!

2008-04-29T20:13:00.004-05:00

I get a handfull of e-mails asking for sample items, teachers complementing me on Zoe's outfits and accessories, and passer buyers just wanting to get the 411, so I figured I needed to put together some type of flair samples. I saw this post this morning and thought "hey that would be a perfect way to package some flair samples". How cute are these? Here is the tutorial here and make sure you see these ultra hip ones for sale. If you want to purchase the boxes pre-cut and ready to assemble(which I highly recommend if your not feeling up to the challenge) you can buy some here. I might even give these as little gifts for Zoe's birthday party.

In the mean time, I'm waiting on fabric and pens to complete a couple of orders. I'll be back tomorrow. Later, gaters.

-Andre'a

The Official Earth Day Guide

2008-04-21T08:23:00.009-05:00

*****Genesis 1:1 - In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.*****

The history of Earth Day: http://www.epa.gov/earthday/history.htm kids version

The history of Earth Day: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earth_Day adult version

Fun activities to do with your children: http://www.dltk-kids.com/crafts/earth.html

I like these from abcteach: http://www.abcteach.com/search.php?q=earth+day&search_type=1&match_words=2&limit_search=1&search_form1_form_visited=1

Here one for the preschoolers to early elementary from starfall (this one is an interactive lesson). Parents might need to help depending on age: http://www.starfall.com/n/holiday/earthday/load.htm?f&n=main

Keep America beautiful: http://www.kab.org/site/PageServer?pagename=index

Tiny Choices Blog Are you a Crock hater?? I am! Karina tells you why you -could- love them. They also have many "green" ideas and tips, and interviews: http://tinychoices.com/

Need-want more "green" blogs? Here is great list: http://www.bestgreenblogs.com/

Shop "Eco Friendly" on ETSY: http://www.etsy.com/search_results.php?search_type=tag_title_description&search_query=ECO+friendly

Freecycle, find a location near you. People recycling items for free!! :http://www.freecycle.org/

Treehugger: http://www.treehugger.com/

I love this upscale upcycled art blog, Haute*Naure: http://hautenature.blogspot.com/search/label/upcycle http://hautenature.blogspot.com/search/label/upcycle

Upcycle Art: http://andrew.cmu.edu/user/tetani/upcycleart/htmls/projects.html

Biblical scriptures:

Psalm 89:11 The heavens are Yours, the earth also is Yours; The world and all it contains, You have founded them.

Psalm 90:2 Before the mountains were born Or You gave birth to the earth and the world, Even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God.

Psalm 102:25 "Of old You founded the earth, And the heavens are the work of Your hands.

Isaiah 40:21 Do you not know? Have you not heard? Has it not been declared to you from the beginning? Have you not understood from the foundations of the earth?

Isaiah 42:5 Thus says God the LORD, Who created the heavens and stretched them out, Who spread out the earth and its offspring, Who gives breath to the people on it And spirit to those who walk in it,

Isaiah 45:18 For thus says the LORD, who created the heavens (He is the God who formed the earth and made it, He established it and did not create it a waste place, but formed it to be inhabited), "I am the LORD, and there is none else.

John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

John 1:2 He was in the beginning with God.

Acts 17:24 "The God who made the world and all things in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands;

Romans 1:20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.

Hebrews 1:10 And, "YOU, LORD, IN THE BEGINNING LAID THE FOUNDATION OF THE EARTH, AND THE HEAVENS ARE THE WORKS OF YOUR HANDS;

Hebrews 11:3 By faith we understand that the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things which are visible.

Revelation 4:11 "Worthy are You, our Lord and our God, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and because of Your will they existed, and were created."

Alright lets see what you have! Add to the list. This is all I could find in a 30 minute time spand. Tag your it.

**Earth day is tomorrow, but I'm bringing my "A" game and starting the week off right? Why don't we have a Earth week anyway?? Hmmnn......**

-Andre'a

Knock, Knock.....

2008-04-18T08:41:00.016-05:00

Who's there? Orange. Orange who? Orange you glad today is Friday? Ummm....YES! What does that mean for a work at home mom? Enough!! Lol...we need the weekend too.

I'm busying along with tons of projects and some orders. Want a sneak peak? Sure you do...I know you.

Okay, first...we have lots of fabric flower flairs. Made to order and already shipped. Yeah, me.

Next we have some cute reusable bow pens....Cupcake with sprinkles!! Mmmm, hungry yet? And third we have little miss Teague. She is modeling some cute button flowers. Isn't she the cutest? Want to give them a try? Here is a tutorial. Have fun. Last, we have a panel embroidered skirt for little miss "IT" factor. She is getting a "fare well to five" embroidered skirt to wear to her birthday party. Each panel will have something fun hand embroidered that reminds her of being five. The first panel is "spring things". She loves to color and her all time favorite thing to color are flowers. Don't you just love the colors? The ladybug is my all time favorite its made with bullion stitch/knot. The next panel is will be something to do with cooking. I'm thinking a cupcake or cake. She loves to bake!! The third panel will have to have something to do with talking! I'm thinking a cell phone maybe?? She is going to be my broadcast journalist.....or something along those lines. I have a hard time keeping up with her. I end up saying yes Zoe, uh huh, you are so smart, reeeeally, and Wow I'm so proud of you! All she needs is a great listener, and that's what I am.

***Happy Birthday Angela! Love you girl.***

Alright, that's all folks!

-Andre'a

A bow by any other name.....

2008-04-15T09:00:00.005-05:00

......Just isn't the same. What is it??? The Tiffany bow!! I love making this bow on my packaging. I know you've always wanted to know how they did it. Here is a great tutorial I found. Lets see those pictures when your done eh?

-Andre'a

Blogiversary Winner Sneak Peek!

2008-04-14T18:36:00.003-05:00

I had to ship this one TWICE because of an error! I use to work at a store that had a pharmacy in it and some how I got one of their pharmacy boxes(trying to be eco friendly and recycle), and lets just say that some boxes cannot be reused. Shame on me!! Lol. But never the less, it's on its way Brenners. I hope you love them all. I simply could not stuff anything else in that $8.95 flat rate box. I hope to see some pictures!

Pictures are not the best quality...still waiting for my baby Nikon, to be fixed. I'll be using my hubby's Kodak Easyshare for just a wee bit longer. Bare with me ya'll.

Do you wear bows?

2008-04-14T18:17:00.007-05:00

I get a handful of e-mails every now and again from people (some that I know personally) asking me if I wear the bows I make. Now where exactly would I be wearing these bows to?? Cheer leading practice, Basketball practice, Church, Car pool line, Grocery store?? What kind of MOM do you think I am? So I simply state that "NO" I don't wear bows...........Not in a house or with a mouse. Not on a boat or with a goat. I will NOT, do NOT wear them, Dre'a I am!! But, because you dared me I will wear one for you!!

I DO however, rock some ultra chic Pony tails...from time to time. Mostly around the house or at the park with the kids....Now there you have it. Poke fun, laugh if you must.....I still love you!

Love,

Dre'a

What happens on the ship stays on the ship!....

2008-03-24T10:36:00.005-05:00

.........That is what my camera said to us. Can you even imagine going an intire trip with NO pictures(oh my aching heart)? Well, I had to. My camera got sick and is now just giving me dark pictures. I know words can't convey how sad I really was at that time. We did manage to get some really good feed via video camera, especially the after effects of me getting swallowed up by a wave. I can't watch it without cracking up. The part that was the funniest is all the dang sand in my hair. OMGoodness!! I still have a head full of sand but not nearly as much. I'm going to try and see if I can edit some of the video so I don't bore you all to death with all of these words, and then post it on here.

-Later,

Dre'a

Off to my vacation!

2008-03-15T12:43:00.002-05:00

I've been sick with the flu this past week and a half and now I'm off to our vacation(wish me luck)!! I'll be back on March 24th with loads of pictures in hand.

-Andre'a

More Ginger Blossom on Etsy!!

2008-03-07T20:44:00.002-06:00

http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=32447

-Andre'a

Ginger Blossom on Etsy

2008-03-06T22:39:00.006-06:00

So I got the wonderful chance to create this beautiful Blossom Flair from fabric designer Sandi Henderson's breathtaking fabric debut line Ginger Blossom. A bunch of incredibly talented ladies have gotten together and listed a handbags, girls clothes, headbands, and hair flowers all made with the Ginger Blossom line, and Sandi is going to be listing something herself. How wonderful is that?? Will you be the first to snag a Sandi Henderson original? Go and take a peek! You will not be disappointed and you can come back and tell me which ones you liked or which ones you bought!!

I will be listing the decoupage pants, sash, and tee shirt when I come back from my vacation.

-Andre'a

Birthday Wishes....

2008-03-05T18:30:00.006-06:00

Another year old, another year wiser. I'm happy to say that 31 ( or 20 +11 if you can't let go of the twenties) is here. I bid fare well to 30 you've been good to me and taught me many many things. 31 I look foward to seeing what you hold for me.

Yesterday was my birthday and the anniversary of my fathers death. I love you daddy! He would have been 80 this year.

My sweet child brought me these flowers from the front of our house, because he does know how much mommies love flowers. "Look closely mommy", he says with glee. "There is a leopard in there!" Amazing....I thought they were just spots. Thank you Jon.

-Andre'a

And the winner is........

2008-03-05T18:24:00.003-06:00

BRENNERS!! Congratulations girl. Send me your address to heyitsdrea@yahoo.com. You get a swag bag full on Andrea's Hair Flairs goodies.

Thank you all for participating.

Wordless Wednesday

2008-02-27T07:10:00.003-06:00

Happy Blogiversary to Me!!

2008-02-24T19:29:00.007-06:00

Wow!! I actually did it. Anyone who knows me, knows that words aren't my way that I choose to express myself. I express myself through my crafts. Yes, I'm a gal of few words, but I have maintained a successful blog for ONE year!! Yea, I have to admit I was sort of sceptical. I'm not one to doubt myself - I just go for the gusto and if I flop, I flop. I'm very proud of myself I must say... And how does one celebrate?

Well, I have to have a give away...right? What is a ribbon aficionado like myself want to give away?? How about an Andrea's Hair Flairs swag surprise?? What type of surprise?? What will be in it? I won't tell, but I'll post some pictures when I'm finished! Who wins? Well just leave a comment and we shall choose a winner by name in a jar system via one my children.

Before I go I just want to say thank you to all that have stopped by to see what I've been up to and those even brave enough to leave a comment. "Thank You". I hope I haven't bored you to death...ha!

-Andre'a

Wordless Wednesday

2008-02-20T12:20:00.007-06:00

Fashion Foward Friday

2008-02-20T10:10:00.004-06:00

Today I'm going to participate in "What's in your bag?" challenge over at Boutique Cafe. I was packing and getting ready to leave friday so today is my free day. Plus I know you all would love to see what's inside my purse right?? Okay here goes...

1. My purse...made by Sew*Gracious

2. Cell phone-Rumor by LG

3. Orbit gum-Sweet mint

4. Pink Wallet-With loads of receipts and stuff

5. Check book cover-Also made by Sew*Gracious

6. Bow on Business Moo cards-Freebies and promo cards!!

7. Comb

8. Mary K Pouch-Holds my chapstick, lipstick, Visine, and lip gloss

9. Aleave-For those pesky headaches

10. Pad of Paper- For jotting down stuff in a hurry or taking a quick order

11. Bow Pen

Thats it...whew. It's not too late for you to join. If your interested join us here.

Later gaters,

Andre'a

Screeeeeech...

2008-02-14T21:51:00.003-06:00

It's here!! I've been taking pictures all day.....now I'm suppose to be packing.....shhh don't tell! There's always Wal-mart right?? He is the cutest isn't he?? Oh, my baby. This is a picture from "Mom and Me" craft and fun time that our local mall sponsors once a month. He's got a little white puppy on the side of his cheek. How cute is that?

Alright, I'm off to go pack....

Happy Valentine's Day

2008-02-14T07:15:00.007-06:00

What's eveyone up to today?? I'm getting ready to out of town for a funeral this weekend. My husbands wonderful great-grandmother passed away tuesday and we are headed to Chattanooga for the extended weekend. She live to be ninety-six!! How wonderful is that. She was a sweet lady and I'm glad I got the chance to know her. Love you grandma Cora!!...............Speaking of grandmothers, it'll be 3 years today that my grossmutter(grandmother in german) passed. She was such a huge part of my life and I'm so grateful for her. My most vivid memories would be hanging out at ther summer home in upstate New York. She lived right across the street from the lake and that's usually where I could be found! Grandma Katie also made sure that I always had tons of art supplies when ever I was with her. Most of my best childhood memories are ones that I spent with her, love you grandma Katie!

Alright everyone, go and spend some time with the ones you love. Make sure that you let them know how much they are loved everyday because it is so easy to take our loved ones for granted. Start a tradition for your children so they know the true meaning of love. This year I'll be playing a secret admirer. I just happened to see a pink bow with a "Welcome home baby" sign on one of my neighbors doors down the street( a neighbor I've never met) and made her some things for the new baby. I'll deliver it to them later. So what is your random act of kindness going to be this Valentine's Day? What ever it is, make it a grand one!

With Love,

Andre'a

Wordless Wednesday

2008-02-13T07:58:00.003-06:00

The Easy Peasy Portable Tripod Stringy

2008-02-12T09:32:00.000-06:00

So while doing some major camera research....I stumbled upon this genius invention. This is a must have for me. I'll let you all know how it works. Check out the video HERE!! Oh, and the best part for me...it cost less that a dollar and you can make it yourself.....genius (you know I'm all about D.I.Y...insert wink)!!

xo,

Dre'a

A Scripture For Today...

2008-02-12T08:21:00.000-06:00

Peter 5:7 (New International Version)
..Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you..

Wating Patiently......

2008-02-10T16:49:00.000-06:00

This is my new baby, My Nikon D40 6.1! Isn't he the cutest?? I'm so glad that I can hardly stand it. I get to put away my point and click and see what real photography is all about. I'm having so much fun just waiting and practicing my shutter speed and aperture here. And I've done so much research that I already know what buttons do what!! How crazy is that?? Well at Walmart.com they give the coolest Nikon tutorial here, you can click on the link "learn more about the Nikon D40" and it takes you through everything. I've joined a couple of Yahoo and Flicker groups so I'm pretty much all set. I though about taking a course in photography but I just have'nt decided yet, I've probably taught myself almost everything a beginners course would include.

And that's not it! I'm also waiting until spring break "08" so that I can go on holliday!! My hubby and I are taking our first cruise to the Caribbean! We are beyond excited!! And we plan on hanging out in Orlando for a few too!! Talk about a vacation. We are going through Royal Caribbean on the Sovereign of the Seas to Nassau and Coco Cay. That is one of the reasons I HAD to get a new camera!!

Valentines day is soon approaching and we are making it another "Handmade Holiday". No generic mass produced cards for us!! We're doing it big! I'll be back soon with loads of new pictures from my new camera!!

Later,

Dre'a

Seeing is Believing!!

2008-01-27T20:18:00.000-06:00

My dog Shadow pushed Zoe's little chairs over to the gate in their play area. He then jumped on the chair and started yelling at me about how a bad mother I was being....making him stay in 'time out' for over 5 minutes because he kept knocking over the trash. "I'm not even a year yet!" Well 10 minutes later he decided he'd had enough and jumped out over the gate. "No, no Shadow", mommy says in sign language. So he runs back over to the gate and trys to hop back in.

What did I learn from all of this? Not to leave the chair in the laundry room/doggie room you might say. But no....that wansn't my lesson. My lesson learned is that dogs CAN understand sign language. I don't expect him to start signing back to me though..... It has also work a couple of times after that.

-Andre'a

Martin Luther King, Jr.: I Have a Dream

2008-01-20T14:35:00.001-06:00

Martin Luther King, Jr: I Have a Dream speech.

-Enjoy,
Andre'a

Uncle, Uncle, Unnccllllllleee!!

2008-01-15T21:47:00.000-06:00

Oh my has it really been that long since I've popped back in?? Zoe and Ian are taking basketball and cheerleading this season so I've been buisy! 3 days out of the week I'm pretty much watching basketball games and practice. I'm trying to adjust and take care of my business, games, and playgroups too...and time is just flying by. Psst, can you belive it's almost February?

I absolutely HAVE to tell you about a swap I did with the "Oh so talented", best cut paper artist Ellia of greenbeanbaby. I've been searching for the pictures to show you because words just wont do it justice. I have a ton of photo's to go through and I've been taking an hour out of my schedule to rename other pictures and find my dang swap photos! Geeesh, no such luck yet. I'm so ashamed, who doesn't name their pictures? If you don't, it's a great idea because who knows what 9875468JL means!! Not to mention that the swap was last November....forgive me greenbeanbaby....oh dear Ellia. I don't want to go down in the books as "World's Most Ungrateful Swapper". Pictures are on the way.....Cross my heart and hope to fly!

In the mean and in between I want to give a shout out to a splended customer of mine. The talented Jennifer of "Jennifer's Bows N' More". She purchased one of my e-books(and my only e-book right now!!) on Boutique Bow Pens. Not only did she make them, she went and spread the word around and now they are selling like hot cakes on Etsy!! I have to show your some pictures because she took my instructions just a tad bit further and used a korker bow on the top of her pens!! How cute is that??

I told you, didn't I!! Well, look-see what we have here? Why are my pictures acting so funky? Any-who...you get the point. The pink and black ones are my favorites!! For all of you that have been asking me for these pen here-ya-go! I have officially retired from making these(for sale) and now you know where to buy them.

Before I go I have to show you a picture of our new babies! They arn't really babies any more per' sei...but they are our babies...

This is Scooby Doo!!(Above)
This is Shadow!! (Below)

Oh, and while we are at it....Her is a picture of my first born baby who stuck a bead in his ear and we had to spend an entire day at the hospital just waiting to get seen......

Later alligators!!

Hello 2008!

2008-01-01T21:26:00.000-06:00

I have only one resolution and it is: "I'm going to be ME!!" This is always my New Year's Resolution because it is one that I can always count on!! AND...if you know me you know I have a very generous heart. I love to gift and give away. So....the first person who wishes me a "Happy New Year" in my comment section will win a free copy(via e-mail)of my new E-book: How To Make Boutique Bow Pens!! Yay, Oprah eat your heart out. Okay, I'm exaggerating a little......Maybe..... Ellen, eat your heart out??

"Happy New Year"

Love,

Andre'a

Happy New Year!!

2007-12-31T14:55:00.000-06:00

I figured that I better get on in her to at least wish you a "Happy New Year". December has been full for me...some wanted and unwanted events. I have survived it all and I'll be going into 2008 full force!! I wish you all the best.

Love,

Andre'a

Let's Play A Game!..Turn up your volume..Don't read at work!!

2007-12-10T09:11:00.000-06:00

::Did you know that the Plain White T's did Rhianna's song Umbrella?? I happen to like PWT but, let me just say that Rhianna rocked it. PWT's...... not so HOT!!

***You can hear their version on my playlist to the right....

::Did you know that Mariah Carey's song "All I want for Christmas" is my absolute ULTIMATE favorite Christmas song? The fact that I can immediately break out into a Carlton dance ( or this version) is utterly embarrasing but OH so halarious....just ask my kids. The fact that I CAN sing makes it rrreeeaaalllyyy bad!

***You can hear her son on my playlist to the right.....

***And see this cute animated remix here.....

***My kids love this live performance. What was up with that pettiskirt??

::Did you know who Jamia Simone Nash is ? Well she happens to be the incredible singing(not speaking) voice behind this animated character. Can she sing? Well um..... NO!! She can BLOW!!
***Here is a clip of her on Show Time At The Apollo, and another one but a different song, and a clip of her on Jay Lenno singing silent night.

::Okay here is just one for the road. Here is one of my "ALL TIME" favorite kiddie singers. She caught my attenion when she sung "It's Love" by Jill Scott on America's Most Talented Kid. Did you notice that this version is about the "LORD"(mentioned at 00:35 on the video clip). Ha! You go girl....

***Here is a clip by Torri Kelly sing an India Arie song, and one singing my favorite song by Christina Aguilera.

Alirght ya'll I hope you had fun. -Andre'a

Who ever new a chain mail to be SO true!!

2007-12-10T08:34:00.000-06:00

So I received this chain mail from one of my bloggin' buddies. You know how dreadful chain mails can be.....pass this on to 1000 of your closest friends and you will have good luck...YEA RIGHT!! Anyway, when I received this one I felt ultimately glad I had. If you are a girl/woman, I believe you can agree:

When a GIRL is quiet ... millions of things are running in her mind. When a GIRL is not arguing ... she is thinking deeply. When a GIRL looks at u with eyes full of questions ... she is wondering how long you will be around. When a GIRL answers " I'm fine " after a few seconds ... she is not at all fine.

When a GIRL stares at you ... she is wondering why you are lying. When a GIRL lays on your chest ... she is wishing for you to be hers forever. When a GIRL wants to see you everyday... she wants to be pampered. When a GIRL says " I love you " ... she means it. When a GIRL says " I miss you " ... no one in this world can miss you more than that.

Life only comes around once make sure u spend it with the right person .... Find a guy ... who calls you beautiful instead of hot. who calls you back when you hang up on him. who will stay awake just to watch you sleep. Wait for the guy who ... kisses your forehead. Who wants to show you off to the world when you are in your sweats. Who holds your hand in front of his friends. Who is constantly reminding you of how much he cares about you and how lucky he is to have you. Who turns to his friends and says, " That's her!! "

-Andre'a

Inspired

2007-11-28T00:00:00.000-06:00

I've been making jewelry on my own now for a couple of months. I've been searching for a way to display the earrings and I stumbled on this type of display in an old magazine, but they used a bowl. Cocktail anyone?? What do you think? My pictures arn't the best but you get the point, right.

And my favorite but probably not so functional because of all of the distracting bows!!
-Later,

Dre'a

***Looks like someone else was inspired also!!http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=8346996

Tutorial

2007-11-27T00:17:00.000-06:00

I have a million and one tutorials just lined up for you, and the fact that I just figured out how to schedule blog posts means that you will be getting a couple every week! Hooray for you...So this tutorial is for us savvy cork board using people. Just in case you didn't know, I love making bows...and I can make them with my eyes closed....(okay maybe with ONE eye closed!) and there are hurdreds of bows floating around my studio. From tiny itsy bitsy bows to big Texas style bows you can find them in there.

This easy project calls for the small to medium sized bows, flat back tacks, a glue gun, and a cork board. For all of you visual learners you can figure it all out by just looking at the pictures. If you need a little more instruction all you need to do is put a little dab of glue on the back of the bow and glue the tack to the back of the bow. Let dry and then add your new tack to the cork board! Tada!! I told you that this was an easy project.

If you look closely you can see the little arrow pointing to the finished product in the last photo. You can also use other items and attach them to your flat back push pins. Do you see the cute frogs that I made into push pins? How cute! I got the flat wood characters from Michaels already painted and just added two push pins, one on the top and the other on the bottom. Then I added my name with alphabet beads.

Till next time,

Andre'a

Love

2007-11-26T09:55:00.000-06:00

"No one falls in love by choice, it is by CHANCE. No one stays in love by chance, it is by WORK. And no one falls out of love by chance, it is by CHOICE."

-Author Unknown-

I love this quote! Sums it up for most of us doesn't it?

Andre'a

It's Friday Ya'll

2007-11-23T12:57:00.000-06:00

Have a great weekend!!

Happy Thanksgiving

2007-11-21T21:36:00.000-06:00

Thank you all for the warm words and kind thoughts on Saturday. It's nice to know the kinder and more compassionate side of the world. God is great and he finds ways to sneak in a little slice of heaven into our life, and Paulie was it!!

Go hug and kiss your loved ones and let them know how thankful you are to have them. Enjoy your turkey, or tofu and sneak some under the table for those furry friends!!

-Andre'a

Yesterday, We Cried

2007-11-17T12:04:00.000-06:00

New Design

2007-11-16T12:07:00.000-06:00

Here is another original design for you with free shipping to the U.S. and Canada. Thanks for peeking and have a great weekend;-)

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=160181224108

Andre'a

November Crafting Update

2007-11-15T19:11:00.000-06:00

Alright today is the 15th and we are halfway through with November! I know I don't know where the time went, do you? I'm going to update the 30 days of homemade gifting by inserting some sites(some that I have purchased stuff from and some I did not) and indie designers. I've already done the first one for you so here goes:

November 1 See previous post!!
November 2 ~ Pincushions & Pins-http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=103816
November 3 ~ For the House-http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=6971896
November 4 ~ Lunch Bags-http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7679396

November 5 ~ Tote Bags-
http://search.ebay.com/_W0QQfgtpZ1QQfrppZ25QQsassZQ2aposhibilitiesQ2a

November 6 ~ Blankets for Baby-http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7889815
November 7 ~ For your Purse or Pocket-http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7844728

November 8 ~ Whimsy-http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=54216
November 9 ~ Fabric Ornaments-http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7882865
November 10 ~ Ties and Belts-http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7901088
November 11 ~ Reading & Writing-http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7891590
November 12 ~ For the Table-http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7896830
November 13 ~ Placemats-http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7900601
November 14 ~ Kids’ Clothes-http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7626779
November 15 ~ Warm those Toes-http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=7898932

You HAVE to check out some of these items and for Pete's sake, go BUY something handmade. Leave me a comment and let me know which one you bought or was your favorite.

later,
Andre'a

-Andre'a