itiswhatitis

Parenting Part Deux

2010-09-29T08:06:00.002-04:00

I try to ride my exercise bike for 30 minutes most days.
It's really hard because I seem to do my best thinking during this time. I am constantly wanting to get off and do some of the things I am thinking about. This drives me crazy and makes the 30 minutes last F O R E V E R.

So yesterday while riding the bike, I started thinking about my son, whom many of you know is off at college, and his latest goings on, and that prompted the whole thought process on raising children. I'm tellin' ya it's amazing what can go through my head in those 30 minutes!

I don't mean to discourage any mothers of young children out there, really, because as we all know, with every challenge they may present to us, the rewards are so much greater and long-lasting. It's just that as your children are growing you constantly find yourself saying something like, "If I can just make it through this stage or phase, it's going to get easier." Am I right? And then it seems the next phase really ends up being even more challenging!

We made it through the sleepless nights when baby cries and you're not really sure how to help. We survived baby learning to walk, say "no", and exhaust us both mentally AND physically! And now I can say that the simplist stage is the early school years. Yes, those are great. Especially say 3rd grade through maybe 6th, in some cases 7th grade. They are independent enough to do their work on their own, and peer pressure is still pretty much nonexistent. High school can be a bit of a challenge. You have to make sure they are motivated since every year of high school will determine their college acceptances these days. And I'm not even going to go into parties, driving, drinking underage.....

And then comes the time when you must let them go. You can only hope that most of what you taught them got through, even though it didn't seem like it at the time. I got a call the other night, at 10:15 PM (is he crazy, does he not know that just him calling me instead of texting is enough of a cause for alarm, but at 10:15 PM!??). He was purchasing a ticket for a concert in a few weeks 200 miles away from his campus. I asked him a few pertinent questions like who was driving, did he realize he would also need money for food and a place to stay, etc..... and as I expressed my concern and doubt, he let me know: "Mom, I'm getting ready to click the button (you know, the one where the money automatically appears to pay for said concert), and just wanted to let you know."

THIS IS HARD LADIES, THIS IS HARD!

Phew, why is it that it takes much longer to get stuff like this out of my head than it does to pop into my head!

later gators!

Thoughts on Parenting...

2010-09-28T11:35:00.000-04:00

Parenting is HARD.

More soon!

Ha, ha
later gators

Tagged!

2010-09-13T18:21:00.003-04:00

OK, so I was tagged in a comment on my last post. It looked like fun questions, so I am going to play along.
Answering the questions at least.
I really can't tag 8 more people because I REALLY have to get busy this week stocking the shop. I have a Junior League show called MarketPlace in Macon, GA coming up in October and this Friday is my "mommy and minnie" giveaway on the TomKat Studio blog.

Before I answer the questions though, let me share a couple of pictures from my daughter's formal event she attended this past weekend. She is a Freshman in high school, so this is her first formal, and we had a great time preparing for it! Here she is in all her glory with her date and then with friends.

Now, the questions...
1. How/where did you meet your best friend?
Actually, when I started a new private school in 8th grade, she was assigned to show me around!
2. What would your theme song(s) be?

3. Name an accomplishment in your life you are proud of?
I was very proud way back when, when I was finally promoted to "store manager" of The Limited after having started in part time sales. It made me much more proud than school ever had.
4. Where is one place you really, really want to visit?
Wow, I have many of these actaully, but the one that has been on my mind a lot lately is Greece! I think it will be absolutely gorgeous.
5. Favorite ice cream flavor?
I'm more of a sorbet lover, and definitely raspberry is my favorite.
6. One item of clothing or accessory you are dying to own?
I'm thinking something Kate Spade.
7. What are your guilty pleasures?
Spending waaaay to much time on the computer!
8. What made you decide to start a blog?
I think it was to help promote my business initially.

OK, that's it for now.

later gators!

Time Management

2010-09-09T12:00:00.002-04:00

I have issues.
I admit it.
In fact, I'd go so far as to say that it is the bane of my existence.
And I'm not alone. No, I don't mean any of you. I mean my whole family. My poor kids, my hubby and I are both SO guilty of this.

Try as I may, I cannot believe how little I can get done in a day. Yes, I know, perhaps if I spent a little (ok a LOT) less time on the 'puter. But look at this poor little blog, I don't even take the time most days to scrawl a little something out here. And I see people who post on their Facebook business pages and write elaborate posts on their blogs, complete with photos and links and.....

And I'm up before 7AM every day!
Does anyone have any suggestions out there. Some foolproof way to kick start my productivity?
I'm not opposed to drugs. Haha!
No really, I have considered checking into ADD meds. I'm just not a pill popper. I can't even get a handle on my Calcium and Vitamin D I should be popping more reguarly than I am.

Speaking of which, I better go do that now.....

Please, fell free post an ideas you may have for me!!!

later gators

Making my way back

2010-08-26T08:18:00.003-04:00

Well, I am happy to report that I feel myself making my way back.

If you have read some of my previous posts you know that my oldest just went off to college. It wasn't quite as hard as I thought. I think maybe because he had a full time job for the latter part of the summer and spent nearly every night out with his buddies. I don't know, but I do know one thing, I am now in a purging mode! I've purged my son and now I am ready to purge everything else. Just kidding, just kidding. Has anyone else experienced this when their firstborn left for college???

I've spent the last few days clearing out both of my children's extra clutter, and it is freeing!
Now I am feeling my creative mojo making it's way back, because believe me, I was feeling a bit empty for a couple of days there.

Oh, and by the way, we set up Skype a couple of nights ago and it was the BEST getting to actually SEE my boy while talking to him!!! Love it and hope to do it again soon. I highly recommend it for connecting with friends and family that live away.

okie dokie,
later gators (and yellow jackets!)

I'll be honest...

2010-08-13T10:36:00.002-04:00

There are moments where I am barely hanging on right now.

Like just now when I logged into Facebook and saw the post of one of my boy's best friends mom's saying they were hitting the road to take their second son off to college. This is the same friend that told me of her first experience with her oldest son and how she basically cried the entire way home, from Alabama!

I have one week left, and I'm about to lose it right now.
Better go....

later gators!

Change is good...... right???

2010-08-09T10:34:00.002-04:00

There are lots of changes going on around here right now.
I am trying to be positive.
And I really do feel positive. Really, I do.
It's just that I know that soon, quite soon, I will be questioning everything.

Have I prepared my son to head to college and be ready to fully take charge of his life? Will he be able to balance classes, social life, studying, laundry, meals, maintaining his health, keeping his room livable.......
on and on.
You know?!!!

My daughter. Starting high school! Will we pick the right classes? Will she be ready to get down to business? OMG, driving in a year or 2??? Parties, late nights, good group of friends???

And my shop. Am I giving it the right amount of effort and time? Should I take it to the next level? Should I forget about it and get a real job (as my hubby would prefer)?

Well, for now, I am just hanging in there. Still working on getting supplies, books, uniforms, getting things into the shop. Just holding steady... for now.

wish me luck!
later gators

Whachya think?

2010-08-02T12:46:00.002-04:00

I would love to make one of these for your dorm room or sorority house.
Give me a shout as to your sorority and it's colors and I'll whip one up for you.
You can email me at elrwga@comcast.net.

lator gators!
or yellow jackets!!!

yikes!!!

2010-08-01T10:20:00.004-04:00

I know!
I have been avoiding this like the plague!!
Seeing just HOW l o n g it has been since i posted here on the ol' bloggity!!!

OK, so something had to give, and this was the logical choice.
My poor (insert "old") brain can only handle so much. I have been busily preparing for my children's next ventures in life, you know. This heading to college and high school is, well, stressful, and joyous of course. It really feels wonderful to have gotten to this point, really.

Boys are not a lot of help when it comes to shopping for everything he will need for his tiny dorm room and new life on his own. I mean my daughter would be after me everyday about when and where we were going to get this and that, whereas the son...
hasn't even thought about it yet! And move in is in 2 1/2 weeks!!!

On top of that of course we are busily getting new uniform, school books and the like for a new school for my baby after being at the same one for 10 years!!! Lots of changes on board for this household, LOTS of changes.

I am extremely excited and looking forward to the changes by the way! I know that I will miss my boy (A LOT!), but I am also ready for him to grow more independent and hopefully get enthusiastic about learning!

OK, now that I've gotten that out of my system, here's another reason for me to be blogging. A facebook friend of mine is turning 40 this month (she doesn't know hoe young that is!), and to celebrate she is offering/hosting a series of giveaways. So far she has had some wonderful items! You have to check it out. Her blog is Shopaholic (don't you love that!)

For any new viewers, please feel free to email me with any questions about custom orders, prices, availabilites of fabrics, anything! I realize the shop is not very well stocked and will do my best to get you what you want, if you will just be patient with me.
here's my email: elrwga@comcast.net

thanks all!

Something worth writing about...

2010-06-26T13:43:00.003-04:00

Not much exciting has been happening around here lately so I have not been blogging. I spend so much time sewing, photographing, editing photos, listing, promoting....
and, of course, driving around my 14 year old, that not much time is left for anything but some light housework and preparing meals (both of which have been so difficult for me this Summer, ugh!).

My 14 yr. old daughter is working hard this Summer learning volleyball and conditioning so she can try out for the team (she is only 5'2" so I don't know!). And my 18 yr. old son is working hard this Summer at doing as little as possible, another ugh.

I do have some exciting news to share though...
On Monday, or Tuesday of next week a cute preppy blogger is going to be hosting a giveaway of one of my aprons, so please be sure to check out her blog at SweetSouthernPrep.

And last but not least, as my last entry mentioned, I have discovered the amazingly beautiful fabrics of Jennifer Paganelli. Well, now she has featured my li'l ole shop on the Sis Boom blog. Very exciting for me, yay!! Please check it out and maybe leave a comment.

I have to thank my model again, my niece Catherine, for enduring the heat to take these pics with me. I guess the heat got to me a bit because there were a couple more that I had that I forgot to take pics of, darn it.
Oh well...

later gators

Forgive Me Lilly Lovers...

2010-06-15T20:41:00.003-04:00

but I have a new L O V E !!!
Her name is Jennifer Paganelli and she designs beautiful fabrics. I have used some of her basics here and there on waistbands and hems, but oh my her line called So St. Croix is making me swoon. And now she has a brand new line out too, called Poodle I think, and I already have my eye on them. But I am not done with St. Croix yet, no way.

Anyway, this is all that I have of the fabric for now and I will be listing these beauties tomoroow when I can get them all photographed properly. I really need to get my model over here again. They look so much better on!

So be sure to scoot over to the shop tomorrow and grab one for yourself, or as a gift.

later gators!

I know, I know...

2010-06-03T20:17:00.005-04:00

It's ridiculous how long it has been since I blogged regularly.

And really, compared to most people's lives, it's not that I have been that busy. I realize this.

But I have indeed been preoccupied.

As some of you may know, my oldest child just graduated from high school. We were so consumed with proms, honors/awards nights and graduation, and the obvious preparations and apprehensions. Not to mention the college choice deadlines and roommate decisions. And then my youngest graduated from 8th grade and it was almost as eventful. albeit a little less stressful. Let's not forget the pressure of her 14th birthday thrown in there too. Girls, they are so much harder, so much more expensive, and everything is a big deal!!!

I also want to mention that now that I am in my 5th decade of life (it's just too difficult to say!), I have gotten an Internist, and have been undergoing a bevy of poking and prodding, blood giving and peeing in cups (forgive my crassness). I actually had my first mammagram, a bone density test, a pap smear (I don't even want to tell you how long it's been since my OB/GYN retired) and lots of labs run on my blood. People let me tell you, I am old! While my mammagram and pap smear were clear (and I am SO grateful and relieved), I have received some probably not all that unexpected news. I have Osteo Penio ( a moderate case), and Osteporosis in my hips! Due to this news, I was asked back in to give blood for a Vitamin D level test. Hello, my levels are at 17 and average is between 30 and 80! I am now on 2000 IU's of Vitamin D daily for 2 months to see if we can't get those levels up and then we will discuss my taking something like Boniva. I guess my days of not taking any meds have come to an end, and I must come to terms with the fact that I am getting old!

I'll leave you today with a few pics of my girl from graduation and a few dances and such.

OMG, and I almost forgot. We live in a modest house on the river. Every now and then we go for a quick boat ride and I always gawk at my favorite house up the river. I love this house from the river and often dream of owning it. Guess what. it's for sale! Anyone got 2.5 million I could have? I would really appreciate it!!!!
It even has it's own website. You've got to take a look. The outside is perfect, I wouldn't change a thing. I can just envision entertaining at this place! The inside, not my style at all, but that would be easy eough to change with a lot of paint and some minor woodworking.
Check it out...
http://www.623dancyave.com/
Be sure to click on the fullscreen version!

later gators!!!

And the Winner Is!

2010-05-17T19:48:00.002-04:00

First, let me tell you how the tallying took place.

I got a piece of paper, scrolled through the comments listing names and using tick marks to denote how many entries per person. Then I gave each person a number and worte that down on as many pieces of paper as earned. BTW, each piece of paper was cut the same size with my trusty paper trimmer. (I would post pics of the process but my camera died at my son's high school graduation yesterday and I have yet to recharge the battery!)

Anyway, I then dumped all of the pieces of paper into a deep bowl and mixed and mixed and mixed and remixed...

then I reached my littl ol' hand in and pulled out...

number 25!!!!!!!

and that would be.....

Bama Girl!

AKA Lori Wilson Driver!

AKA Shopaholicinalabama!

I will contact you soon Lori in case you don't see this post tonight!

And to you all, thank you, thank you for entering and I hope to have more giveaways soon!

later gators!

Let the Tallying Begin!!!

2010-05-14T19:17:00.002-04:00

It appears I've used this title before.
Too funny.

Anyhoo, looking forward to starting the tallying process so I can announce the winner on Monday...
after all the big graduation festivities that is!!!

later gators!

Yippee!

2010-05-11T11:55:00.001-04:00

Thank you so much for all of the comments and support so far!!!
I am so thrilled, I will definitely do this again.
You have until Friday to enter!

One Major Hurdle and Giveaway Details!!!

2010-04-29T17:13:00.006-04:00

Just comment below for an entry to my apron giveaway!

Decision as to where to attend college in the Fall... check
Deposit on tuition, due May 1... paid
Deposit on Housing, due May 1... paid
Roommate secured... well 3 out of 4 ain't bad, especially in this household.

OK, so now...
for the fun stuff...

the apron turned out adorable don't you think?
and whoever wins this cutie can decide if she would like white pom pom fringe added!

Here's the deal, and please, don't get discouraged if you don't want to do anything but leave a comment and forgo all the other rigmarole. You never who might win, seriously. And I want lots and lots of entries!!!

1. Comment on this post with your favorite item or type of item (I know I am not exactly well stocked right now, but oh well) from my Etsy shop for ONE entry.
2. Sign up to follow my blog for ONE entry (or mention you already follow)
3. Sign up as a fan of LWhelanDesigns for ONE entry (or mention you already are a fan)
4. Follow me on Twitter for ONE entry.
5. Invite your Facebook friends to LWhelanDesigns fan page and have at least one join for... TWO entries.
6. AND... Blog about this giveaway for THREE additional entries (please provide a link to your pst in the comments here.)

I would like to limit this giveaway to the U.S., but will ship to Canada as well.
I will accept entries until Friday, May 14 before midnight.
Winner will be announced on Monday, May 17th both here and at Facebook.

Good luck and help me get lots of entries to make this fun!!!

thanks-
later gators!!!

Freak Out!

2010-04-26T09:52:00.004-04:00

OMG, it's amazing to me that I have not just completely stopped in my tracks.
I mean, the times they are a changin'!
Wasn't I just in my 20's the other day?

Ch-ch-ch-changes...
Time to face the strain.

Ok, enough with the lyrics and song titles, right?
It's just that every now and then I have to stop myself from having a panic attack!
You know, oldest child, first born, leaving the nest.
And then baby girl staring high school. It's almost too much to handle.
And yet, I find those emotions mixed in with those of excitement over the possibilities of what my new life will be like. You know, after the kids are gone.
Crazy i tell you, crazy!!!

Now, moving on.
I have been enjoying creating for the shop. Gaining momentum, finding new followers, and planning for my first show in October! It's very exciting, and I appreciate all of the interest in my 'stuff".

Here's a couple of the recently sold:

Fun, huh?

Well, I promised my Facebook fans an apron giveaway and here is where I will reveal the details and actually "host" the giveaway as I don't think I am allowed to do that from my page. If you're not a fan yet, please, I'd love to have you join.

So,,,,
stayed tuned.

Oh, and feel free to post any lyrics or song titles you feel are appropriate! That would be fun.

later gators
details coming soon!!!

What??? No way!

2010-04-21T08:22:00.004-04:00

Has it really been that long since i posted?
Can it really be the 21st of April?...
For that matter, what happened to March?

I have got to get a handle on things around here.
Am I right?

Everything friends had told me about having an 8th grader and a senior in high school at the same time was true.
And yet somehow knowing that did not prepare me any better.

My senior just had his prom last weekend and after spending the night out (with all 8 or so of the other guys that went together) he went straight to his school to leave for a 3 day National Honor Society convention (thus missing my birthday, boo). It really felt like a little preview of his going away to college. And let me tell you, it will be very different not seeing his handsome face every day!

More pretties coming soon, I promise.

A blog post!

2010-04-01T08:38:00.010-04:00

APRIL FOOLS!!!

No, really, a blog post.

Just to catch you up on what's been going on in our world.

This is what the custom made cookies looked like that we put in the gymnastics goodie bags. They came from my favorite cookie place, Two Smart Cookies. I love their cookies! They are so cute, and SO good, AND, they ship everwhere!!! They are buttery with a hint of almond flavor, yum.

These girls had a wonderful season and it showed in the State Meet last weekend up in Atlanta. Morgan qualified as an alternated for the Georgia Team in the Regionals Meet in a few weeks up in North Carolina.

And while mother and daughter were jumping for joy in Atlanta, father and son stayed home for this...

A Senior Formal. Not to be mistaken for Senior Prom which is in a couple more weeks!
Aren't they all adorable??? And maybe having a bit too much fun!

Now we're ready for a break so our Spring Break is just in time!
Hope to all get some time in at the beach!!!

Happy Easter to all!!!
later gators

I admit it...

2010-03-24T12:31:00.002-04:00

I'm a bit weird...
odd...
strange.

Little things can make me so happy.
Like these hand decorated goodie bags and frames I made for my daughter's gymanstics team and coach.

I can't wait to give them out tonight. The frame can be turned either way and we have a team pic taken by one of the Mom's to put in it. I can't remember if it's vertical or horizontal, but once we get them in I am adding puffy stickers spelling out each one's name as well.

Oh, and one of the other things we have to put in the bags are monogram cookies iced in lime with black polka dots. I must remember to get pics of them before the girls tear into them.

later gators!

I'm so Lucky...

2010-03-11T20:36:00.007-05:00

I mean not like win the lottery lucky, but lucky nonetheless.
I am lucky because I have had the best time in the shop lately. Things have been going well and I have had some of the sweetest customers. Several as of late have even made a second purchase before they received their first item. Now that's lucky, right?

I'm gonna share a few pics with y'all.

This first is a capture of a pretty, springy treasury I am lucky to have been featured in!
This next one is an apron that lasted all of maybe 30 minutes in the shop (and it's not even finished yet). Now how lucky is that!

Now this last one I was lucky enough to have received in an email from one of the sweetest customers ever, and now we can all see how darn cute she is too...

Now, maybe I should play the lottery.

later gators!

Super Mom Wannabe???

2010-03-04T11:11:00.003-05:00

Have you ever wanted to be a super mom but oh I don't know, procrastination, got in your way? Or you're just overbooked and couldn't quite pull it off?

Well, here's your chance to shine!

I've found an adorable freebie for your St. Patrick's Day treats that will have all of those "other" moms thinking you are where it's at!

Run to this link from The Tomkat Studio and print out these adorable circles to use as cupcake toppers or some of the other great ideas suggested!

later gators!

Brain clog!

2010-03-03T10:22:00.002-05:00

Any time I know I have important things that are a strong priority, my mind starts reeling with ideas. It's a curse I swear!

I/we have retreats, Confirmation, wedding showers (and shopping for gifts and outfits) I need to be attending to.

And yet I am trying to get some things in the shop because business has really been on a roll and I want to keep the momentum going.

So why, why am I getting bogged down with crazy ideas...
like
mens and boys ties
clothing and accessories for American girl dolls

same ol' same ol' I know!
later gators

Brag Alert!...

2010-02-24T08:22:00.004-05:00

I don't like to brag.
I really don't.
I don't brag on myself, and I am not very good at bragging about my children. In fact, usually when someone else recognizes one of their accomplishments, I promptly follow it up with a negative comment. That's just me.
But today, I am here to just plain brag.

Our son was recognized yesterday at a luncheon, and he just plain made us proud!
He qualified as the STAR student at his high school.

Here's a bit about the program and it's criteria:
The Student Teacher Achievement Recognition (STAR) program honors Georgia's outstanding high school seniors and the teachers who have been most instrumental in their academic development.
To obtain the STAR nomination, high school seniors must have the highest SAT score (from any one administration of the three-part SAT taken through the November test date of the student’s senior year) and be ranked in the top 10 percent or top 10 members of their class, based on grade point average. These students then select an inspiring teacher to share in this recognition.

Here he is with his chosen teacher, his AP English teacher from hie Junior year with whom he talks with (and get books from) still on a regular basis this year.

OK, that;s it. I'm gonna quit now before I find something negative to say!
(BTW, isn't he cute!)((Sorry, guess I'm on a roll!!))

Sunshine Award? Me?

2010-02-19T19:59:00.004-05:00

I just want to thank Paula for awarding me this...

Of course the rules are to nominate the award to 12 bloggers and as of right now, I am just not going there. Too busy.

but...
I want to properly thank Paula and let you all in on how I came to know her. I don't remember which came first, the Etsy OR the Flickr, hehe, but I know that I was so impressed with her branding. She has some of the most beautiful handmade items like hair pins and brooches. They are often made of velvet with hand embroidery. Just beautiful. But what really got me is how she has pulled together her shop at Etsy, her packaging, her logo, her whole concept is just perfect. But don't take my word for it, take a look for yourselves...

Wychbury's Flickr
Wychbury's Etsy shop
Wychbury's Blog

So, omce again, thanks Paula, and sorry for not fully following the "rules".

later gators

Shhh...

2010-02-13T22:00:00.003-05:00

I'm sitting in a hotel room in Myrtle Beach, SC.
Don't want to disturb anybody.
The people upstairs sound like they are playing hopscotch or something. Running laps maybe.
It's driving us crazy.
Us: Me, hubby and the gymnast.
On the road again.
Her group doesn't compete until 4:00 tomorrow...
Sunday!
And unlike the rest of the world, she is supposed to have school Monday. No President's Day holiday. But I guess there will be for her, 'cause we ain't leavin' here until Monday mornin'.

Sorry for the long absence...
again
if i have any readers left.

g'night johnboy!

Free gift Alert...

2010-02-05T12:32:00.005-05:00

Want to hear how you can get a free gift set of lilly fabric pushpins???
Head to my Facebook fan page to find out how!
Go, right now.
And while you're there, go ahead and become a fan. I'd love to have ya.

New in the shop today:

later gators
oh, and have a good one!

Phew... We Made It

2010-02-02T10:33:00.003-05:00

Wow, we finished another meet.
Scoring was somewhat brutal with all of our girls dropping drastically from the last meet.
We moms were dumbfounded (I know, that's not hard for me as this gymanstics thing confuses the heck out of me!).
Every time we thought one of the girls was better than ever, bam, oddly low score.
That being said, Morgan finished first on Bars and Floor, so I guess scores were just low all around. And speaking of All Around, she finished 3rd AA, and Summit finished second place as a team.
Hoping to improve by next meet in 2 weeks.

Now about the shop...
getting caught up on a few custom orders and hope to have new items stocked soon!

If I can figure out how to upload a video from my son's camera, I'll give you a peak into Morgan's routines. She'll love that!!! (NOT)

later gators

So much stress!...

2010-01-31T11:34:00.002-05:00

We're headed to meet #2 of the season in Hilton Head today.
I'm telling you ladies, this gymnastics stuff is hard work.
No, of course I'm not talking about for the gymnast. I mean 12-20 hours a week at the gym is nothing compared to sitting in the stands watching your child and her teammates!!!
Talk about nail biting.
And I just heard that one of the girls on one of the other teams bailed on her layout this weekend, landed on her head, and got a concusion. And I have seen Morgan bail once at the gym and thought for sure she had broken her neck! I mean mostly I am just nervous for her, that she do her best and be recognized for it, but now there is a whole new element of nerves (for me and her)!

Once again, wish us luck!!!

Oh, and I hope to take videos this meet (with a charged camera thank you very much Andrew).

later gators

So, so proud...

2010-01-26T20:43:00.003-05:00

I'm so proud of Summit's Prep Op team. OK, so yes, my daughter happens to be one of them, but hey...
They did so great! They brought home the first, second, and third place medals in every event. But when it came time for the team trophies, they named 3rd and then 2nd, and so of course we thought we'd be 1st...
Nope! We all left feeling a little bad about not bringing home a trophy. Bad for their coach, bad for the gym, and of course the girls. I couldn't believe it, really, but weirder things have happened.
Well, we got a call (actually 3) on the way home. Someone forgot to submit our team scores and we did bring home First Place! We will get a trophy in the mail since they couldn't take away the ones they already handed to the other teams.

Yay SUMMIT!!!

later gators

Cute, cute idea for the weekend...

2010-01-22T07:57:00.002-05:00

I love it when I sign in to my email account in the morning and amoungst the 10-20 emails awaiting me (mostly junk since the holidays!), there is one from Papertey Ink. This is an amazing online store which not only sells some great original stamps and supplies, they have the BEST team of designers with such beautiful ideas!

Today in my box was an idea from designer Michelle Wooderson for Valentine's bookmarks. I love this project. It's quick and easy, inexpensive, and perfect for all ages. With my baby in 8th grade, they really don't do the Valentine's thing too much any more, but what a nice surprise to bring these in and share with the class. OK, so the boys might not be too excited, but oh well...

So please, hop on over to Michelle's blog and take a peek. In fact, if you are so inclined, leave a message and tell where you heard about her. It's be fun!

Have a great weekend, and wish us luck...
This is my girl's first gymnastics meet of the season and the 2 of us are road bound this afternoon!!!

later gators
Oh, and sign up for Papertrey's newsletter, you won't regret this one!

Inspiration!

2010-01-20T10:05:00.007-05:00

Hmmm, let me try to remember how I found this artist.
Oh yeah, I have Google Analytics and can check stats on my Etsy shop. Things like whether someone found my shop as a result of a "search" or maybe a "referral" from another site. Often the referrals simply mean that a person left one site and then came to Etsy and to my shop. Anyhoo, there was a referrral from Print and Pattern, which I love to take a looky at from time to time myself, hence the link in my right hand sidebar.
Sooo, I clicked on over to Print and Pattern myself and after some scrolling, came across an artist by the name of Carolyn Gavin.
Oh my goodness, I am in love. With her art that is, don't even know her.
I scrolled and scrolled and could harldy make myself stop scrolling. Love it, love it. My mind was whirling with ideas...
great, just what I need to bring me to a halt. I know I'm weird, but sometimes too many ideas just causes a creative breakdown.
I'm going to share a few of the photos that "sang" to me.
Enjoy!!!

Oh my gosh.... L O V E

go, click, be inspired for yourself!

later gators

Moving right along...

2010-01-15T20:35:00.005-05:00

Yay!

Got a few more items made and in the shopola.

Gonna keep on keepin on, but I've got a big ol' monkey on my back I've GOT to work on.
It's called FAFSA!
Any moms of college bound kids out there? You know what I mean, don't you!!!
I hear it is a bear and I'm am procrastinating like never before on this one. And you have to do it. I have to do it. We have to do it.
Hmmm, not really working.
I've got to get the ol' hubbola on this one with me, and y'all are not going to believe this...
but he is a BIGGER procrastinator than I am!!!
I'm scared.

wish me luck!
later gators

Peak into my World...

2010-01-14T10:08:00.004-05:00

Coming soon, I promise!
I think that I have said before that these are more time consuming for me than anything else I make right now. I am so picky about my combinations and trimmings, I drive myself crazy!!! I just have to walk away and come back later several times. I know, I'm weird, BUT in the end I love every single one and think you will too.

The top one here is a new design and some of the trimmings are imports and the bottom trim is vintage. This is a departure for me, but I just thought it looked so "Lilly". Hoping to get this one listed t o d a y.

later gators

Back in the Saddle...

2010-01-12T09:24:00.005-05:00

Whew!
Finished 5 scarves in the past 2 days.
If you sew, don't laugh at me. I am slow, I am meticulous, and last but not least don't forget...
I am a procrastinator.

I have 2 more that I am working on right now as special orders.
As a person who seems to only be driven by praise (AKA acknowledgement that someone appreciates or likes what I do), each sale spurs me on.

I NEED to get moving on some wall art pieces as I have people waiting. I am not complaining though, I love it!!!

later gators

What's been going down around here, and what hasn't...

2010-01-08T17:35:00.003-05:00

OK, I'm here to air the dirty laundry so to speak.
I, for one, am glad that the holidays are over!
I'm sorry...
but I was on a roll.
I was blogging
I was Facebooking
I was Tweeting
I was actually making things...
and selling them.
I almost resented having to stop and focus on getting gifts for the family.
Isn't that awful???
But, no one really had anything in particular that they wanted, or better yet, needed.
And now, now, I have lost all momentum.
Other than the convoes and emails I am getting from some folks asking for special orders (yay! for that)

So, I am really trying to get back in the groove!

We did have a good bit of gymnastics taking place during the holidays that kept at least Morgan and I busy. She had 2 mock meets with 2 different judges (these meets each took over 6 hours!), and she did very well.
And, the 2 of us road tripped it to Atlanta for a 7 hour gymnastics clinic!!!
And soon, soon the real meet season will begin. With meets in January and February, and culminating with the state meet in March we have a few months of travelling ahead of us! Wish her luck, but please, don't say brake a leg (shudder).

I'll be back soon with an insight into how I go about the whole process of getting one of my scarves put together. For a lazy, never finish a project, procrastinating kind of girl like me ( not to mention my commitment issues!), you might just end up impressed with my having done as well as I have. I know I am (hee,hee).

anyways
later gators
it's good to be back!

Oops, procrastination alert...

2010-01-07T11:08:00.002-05:00

Wow, not only have I been a bad, bad blogger (or I guess nonblogger would be more appropriate), it seems that that email I got awhile back from Photobucket was more urgent than I realized!

Coming back soon to give a year end update, and get things rolling.

so sorry!!!!

later gators

And the Winner is........

2009-12-16T11:29:00.002-05:00

Lacey Bowman!

Congratulations Lacey.
And to everyone else, I promise to do more giveaways after the frist of the year.

Have a great Holiday all.

And Lacey I will be packing up your prize and shipping it out very soon via Priority Mail, so be looking for it in a few days.

thanks again everyone
lynn

Let the Tallying Begin!!!

2009-12-16T07:54:00.003-05:00

I want to thank each and every one of you (I know there's not a ton of you, but hey your odds are pretty good!) for taking the time during this sometimes stressful build up to the holidays for entering my first REAL giveaway!

I am filling out little slips of paper for each entry and will announce the winner a bit later today.

thanks again, and...
good luck to all!!!

see ya again soon

Christmas Lilly Pulitzer Giveaway, Still Time

2009-12-13T10:25:00.006-05:00

There's still plenty of time to enter my Christmas giveaway of a hand decorated tin filled with handmade goodies similar to these:

See post below for entry details!

Great Giveaway Just in Time for Christmas!

2009-12-10T18:07:00.008-05:00

Wow, I have really been having a hard time pulling this together.
What can be so hard about giving away such a great package???

OK, so here's the deal...

I made this adorable little gift tin last year and never did anything with it.
I know right, crazy.
Anyhoo, I've decided that in order to show how grateful I am for getting as far as I have with my shop, blog, twitter and now Facebook fan page...
I am going to fill this baby up with as many of my handmade goodies as I can (many of them will be Lilly)and send it to the lucky winner, priority shipping on December the 17th. That should give everyone a chance to enter, and still time for you to get it and maybe even give some of the items as gifts for others. whew! That was a mouthful for sure.

So, here are the deets on how to enter...

you can get one entry for:
1. posting a comment here on the blog
2. writing a blog post or tweet about this giveaway and posting the link here
3. become a follower of this blog(or let me know that you already are)
4. become a follower at twitter (or let me know that you already are)
5. become a fan of my Facebook fan page (or let me know that you already are)
6. 1 entry also for each person that you refer here that enters the contest (make sure that they reference you when they post here!)

AND, for a bonus FIVE points:
Purchase at least one item from my shop (this includes past purchases!)!!!

That's it.
Entries must be from the U.S. (I'm sorry, maybe next time) please and the contest will close as of 11:59 PM EST on December 15 so that I can calculate and get the package shipped by the 17th. Make sure that I have a way to contact you in your posts!

So really- it's up to you. You can enter as many or few times as you wish.

This should be fun!
later gators

I Feel Kinda Like I'm Back in High School...

2009-12-07T16:35:00.003-05:00

I am so sorry.
Why have I been MIA?
Because I have been so busy creating, starting my Facebook fan page, shopping for my family, and researching more products???
Not really, not that busy.

No, it's more like when I was in high school...

and hence the blog title.

I know I'm late getting an assignment doen and so I just kind of avoid going there...

kind of block it out of my mind.

I don't know why I do this, really...

but I can see that unfortunately it's hereditary. Yes, I'm afraid my son suffers from the same affliction. Wish I could help break the cycle, but alas, I haven't cured myself yet, so how do I help him!!!

Anyhoo, enough of that.

I guess I'm back.

I'll try to do better, really.

I am trying to get some more goodies in the shop before it's too late.

I am working on scarves at least for the first part of this week.

Have lots of great lilly Pulitzer fabrics in house to work with.

Here's one I just finished for my cousin:

I love it with this chocolate puffer vest!

I will be listing more pink/green scarves AND some blue(aqua)/green too very soon.

AND...
I promise to have the details of a nice GIVEAWAY up on the bloggity tomorrow.
Be sure to join my fan page!!!

later gators

Look at Me Go!

2009-11-21T16:52:00.004-05:00

Wow, I am kinda proud of me!

I started a new Facebook fanpage....

lynn's fanpage

And, no less amazing, I made a new Holiday shop banner.

I searched for a premade one I loved or could customize a bit, and nada, nothing I liked. sO, I started searching for some digital elements and found these Rob and Bob ones. Oh how I used to covet their papers and stickers in my scrappin' days (not that they are gone forever mind you).

Anyhoo, I got to working...

and hours later (when I should have had the house clean for my quickly approaching Thanksgiving guests), here's what I came up with. It's so cute. Let me know what you think!!!

lynn's shop

Oh, and I realize that the avatar still needs work, but hey...

gotta run, this guy is yelling at me somethin' fierce!!!

Felicity's Circus, A Scarf (hee,hee)

2009-11-17T16:32:00.002-05:00

childs scarf girl4
Originally uploaded by lwhelan

This is probably why I never got to paint my room yellow as a young lass. Yellow!!!! What a difficult color to photograph!

This child's scarf is sO pretty IRL!
Soft and sweet. And the characters havve such sweet faces. I adore it. Makes me want a little girl all over again.

Well, maybe not!!!

I only had this tiny bit of this fabric, so this truly is one-of-a-kind.
Although...
I do have another colorway almost ready that is suitable for little lads and lasses.

sorry for being MIA for so long. It seems I lost a week or so there!

Oh, and last but certainly not least, my first born is 18 today!
Eighteen!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I would say that I am getting old, but believe me, I am already there!

later gators

2 More for the Weekend

2009-11-06T16:17:00.003-05:00

This last one is another work in progress. The waistband and pocket will be out of a brown and white zebra pattern that is currently enroute, and the ties are the blue polka dot. Very cute, and not Lilly.

Have a great weekend peeps!

They like them, they really like them...

2009-11-05T12:40:00.008-05:00

My aprons have been well received as of late, and I must admit I have really been enjoying putting them together. If my darn kids would quit getting in my way!

Just kidding of course (well, kinda).

They are all sold!
I'm working on more now. How fun!!!
And one last thing...
a new scarf

later my little gators

Happy Day

2009-10-30T16:11:00.003-04:00

Hi All-

I was going to post some pics of a new apron I listed today, but a sweet customer that purchased a scarf, snatched it up. I love it when people get as excited about something I make as I do. It's hard to explain, but it's kinda like someone really appreciating something about your child!

Here's what it looks like anyways. I used a fringe for the first and NOT last time.
Hope you like. More coming soon. In other farics of course....
Hmmm, maybe I should invest in some larger pieces with holiday shopping coming up and all. Oh sorry, I'm talking to myself again!

Have the Best Halloween!!!

Get in Touch with your Inner Prep

2009-10-26T13:18:00.001-04:00

set for kelly
Originally uploaded by lwhelan

I posted on the Lilly fanpage last week and was contacted by a lovely lady wanting to purchase a set of 3 wall art pieces to decorate her niece's room.
Here's what I have to show her, waiting for final approval.

ANd in other news, I received my HUGE box of designer scraps and have been sorting through them. Can't wait to get started on some gorgeous new Fall scarves!!!
I'll definitely be keeping a couple of these beauties for myself.

I'll keep you posted with my progress. Still have lots of cutting and sorting left before I can begin sewing.

later gators!

It's Only Taken 16 years!!!

2009-10-20T15:12:00.003-04:00

No, it has nothing to do with my children...

or my husband.

It's this guy

Yep, we've live here on the water for 16 years come December 1, and NEVER have I seen one of these in my yard during the day. In fact, I've only seen some at night once, and that was a couple weeks ago.
We live very close to a small island that we've always known had deer on it, but never, ever saw them in our hood until the last couple of years. Obviously they are thriving. Although I did see a wound on this guys back leg. Sure hope he'll be ok.

I have mentioned before that I moved a little desk into my kitchen to house my laptop not long ago and I came downstairs to "check my email" for the who knows what time today, when this one caught my eye.

I am so lucky to live here!!!

later gators

Dreary Days Bring Me Down...

2009-10-16T16:57:00.002-04:00

BUT...
I am so excited, because
I have recently purchased a whole lotta beautiful designer scraps,
and I will have a new "crop" of scarves and aprons coming soon.

You will have to keep an eye out, because although I don't have the fabrics yet in my hands,
they are coming form a source I know will NOT disappoint.
More on that later.

Have a great weekend!!!

there's a nip in the air!

2009-10-14T13:46:00.005-04:00

and that can only mean 1 thing...
the holidays are quickly approaching.

Look what I've got up my sleeve for this year.
It's just a sneak peek if you will, a prototype...

Can't you just imagine a small tree with nothing but variations of these???
Yummy!!!

Life

2009-10-13T12:06:00.002-04:00

Just plain been busy with life.
you know...

Homecoming- game and dance
college apps (ugh, still)
SAT's
Halloween

I had always heard that having one graduating from high school and one from middle school would have my head spinning, and while it isn't that bad (yet), it is keeping me busy.

Haven't had much time to work on my shop, but will soon.

And last but NOT least, Happy Birthday to my daddy who would have been 82 today.
I always felt that the date of the 13th had to have something to do with his being taken so young, days before his 47th birthday, by someone who had no regard for life. It still hurts me to this very day as I was only 16 at the time, and it changed my family F O R E V E R. My brother was away at college, my sister a senior and myself a junior in high school, we never had a chance to grieve together, but instead it sort of drew a wedge between us all. And poor mom having the burden of putting all the kids through college on her own.

Anyways, Happy Birthday daddy, I so wish you had been around to enjoy your grandkids and vice versa. In many ways, they are a lot like you.

thanks for indulging me bloggo and readers!!!
later gators

Positively Negative...

2009-10-06T11:16:00.002-04:00

I'd like to give some good news on the whole college application process.

I really would.

But when I say we're talking major procrastination...

The boy's had 12 tardies already this year!

TWELVE

and school's been in session for less than 2 months!!!

I am seriously at my wit's end with this boy.

But he sure is cute.

Growing and Expanding...

2009-10-05T12:51:00.005-04:00

And no...

I'm not talking about my waistline, or rear end (although I guess I could be!)

It's my sewing, sillies.

I've added a lining, a pocket and a patchwork band to my latest apron.

I would gladly give credit to my sources to learn some of these new tricks, but it's really a compilation of this and that that I have read hither and yon. Understand I mean?

Next one, I'm gonna try pompom fringe!
Whoopee...

later gaotrs

It's Live

2009-09-29T21:20:00.002-04:00

Excited and a Little Sad...

2009-09-28T09:11:00.003-04:00

Later today I will be listing a half apron in the cutest Lilly fabric.
It is my absolute favorite.
And when I have a fabric I love...
I hate to use it.
Same with my scrapbook papers.
BUT, I'm doing it.
So, my loss can be your gain!

Can't wait to share it with you.
***ETA***

It's not posted yet...
my battery died on my camera with only 2 pics!
later gators

Waiting for the shoe to drop...

2009-09-24T09:57:00.004-04:00

Or in this case, the glue to dry.
Is that really a saying?
How did it come to be...
and become widely used (at some point)?
Do you ever find yourself wondering that about these things that just pop into your head?
OK, so I'm crazy!

Anyhoo, I digress...
I really am waiting for the glue to dry on Lilly Shift Dress No.002.
And she is darling. If I do say so myself.
I love the trims used on this one.
Looks so authentically Lilly.
Now there is no way you can resist buying this for a Lilly baby, right!

It will be posted later today...
after the glue dries!

later gators

Here 'tis...

2009-09-23T10:50:00.006-04:00

Oh I think this is so cute (and special) as a baby gift.
I can picture it now in one of those ornate frames painted white.
I have got to find one of those to photograph it in!

later gators

Coming Soon

2009-09-22T19:43:00.003-04:00

Just wanted to give a head's up that i am working on a template/pattern for a Lilly shift to make wall decor and I guess cards too. So I will have both styles to choose from. The shift would be precious in a little girl's room. The original dress is perfect for teens or older.

AND...
I AM GOING TO GET SOME MORE APRONS MADE SOON.

this is to emphasize to myself that I NEED to get this done.
They will be perfect as hostess gifts for the upcoming holiday season, as well as for Christmas gifts.

Pics coming soon.

Finally!...

2009-09-20T21:02:00.005-04:00

I have been asked when I was going to get some more of these framable wall art pieces in the shop, and finally they are here.
This is a coordinating set, but they are listed individually.

And I have more fabric coming soon!
Can't wait!!!

later gators

This 'n That

2009-09-17T10:18:00.003-04:00

Just wanted to say that I am getting a few card sets listed today AND...
my eagle buddies are back!!!

For those of you who are newer to my blog, last year I enjoyed morning coffee with one or more eagles nearly every morning. There is a very tall, very dead, pine tree in my neighbors yard (it was hit by lightening several years ago). We live on the river and there is a house a good bit down river that has had a huge eagle's nest in it forever. Every Summer the eagles leave and every Fall they return. Usually, I could walk out on the dock to get the best perspective of them visiting my neighbor's tree, and if I was lucky I could even get a photo or 2. Not this year! Just walking out there makes it(or them, there were 2 a couple days ago) fly away, and then that's it for the day.

Let me find a pic from last year...

Love these symbolic and majestic birds!!!

Coming tomorrow...

2009-09-16T22:07:00.001-04:00

Sidetracked... Again

2009-09-15T19:44:00.004-04:00

I had every intention of making some Wall Decor this week.
Really, I did.
And I've been working on an idea for some tabletop pieces (think topiary, shhhh!).
BUT...
I got a "convo" from a sweet girl asking if I was ever going to make more of my Lilly Dress cards again.
Well, sure!
So i made these 4...
and she bought them all.
Gotta love it.
More coming tomorrow...
Really!!!

later gators

More Commissioning Pics

2009-09-15T08:27:00.001-04:00

group laughing commissioning 2009
Originally uploaded by lwhelan

Can you believe my son, the scrapper's son, did NOT even tell me the group was meeting for photos down on the bluff in Isle of Hope! Thank goodness some friends sent me lots of photos! I love this one, so cute.

That's Major to you!

2009-09-14T16:56:00.004-04:00

Whew, got this one under our belt.
It was the Commissioning ceremony for the seniors where they get their rank.
That's my good looking, tall, dark, handsome man next to the left in the close up shot. Doesn't he look kinda short at 6 feet, maybe even 6'1"? His date was tall, and the young man in the center, well he let's just say he plays b-ball, at closer to 7 feet.

I just love a man in uniform! They all looked great, and the girls were gorgeous. I dread when my baby might be asked next year. Freshmen must have dates as well. Let's see, there's the dress, the hair, the nails... I need a job, NOW!!!

later gators

I'm waiting...

2009-09-10T09:49:00.004-04:00

It's never too late!
I'm accepting meal ideas from now until....
um, forever.

SO, if you ever come across a great site with ideas, or you decide you're ready to share one of your own recipes, I'm here for ya. haha

Here's what I've been adding to the shop this week.

Not too much else going on, unless of course you count Andrew's commissioning this weekend. This is when the senior JROTC "guys?" get their final ranks (or something like this, forgive me!) The parents attend this event, he has a date and has to make plans for dinner, get a corsage, clean the car, get his uniform in top brass form.... and so on and so forth. You get the idea, right. Yes, HIS plans are keeping me busy (with worry if nothing else, because it sure ain't bothering him that nothing is finalized yet).
Oh, and of course he has to pay for the photographer for this event, and for his sponsoring of a girl for homecoming, and her corsage, and, and, and...
This kid is putting us in the poor house. nd before we can recover from all of this, he will be entering college... youch!

But this is way more than you needed to hear.

later gators!

Umm..., What's for dinner???

2009-09-08T12:49:00.003-04:00

I know, I've asked for help before...
but I am desperate here!

Spaghetti, check... every week.
Uh, that's it, seriously, we are in a bad way!!!

And...
Here was my latest special order set.
It was requested by a new customer and sweet lady, here's her blog:
bunnychicboutique

She wanted a belt but said she never tucks her shirts in any more, so I created this sash style belt for her. What do you think? I'm pretty sure that from now on, I will not do the patchwork on the actual belt part, I mean what for??? It's not going to show, and it will be a LOT quicker to make without it. I almost had to recruit my math genius son on this one! haha

later gators!!!

Does anyone know?

2009-09-04T10:57:00.003-04:00

Is there a way on Blogger to be able to email people from their comments?
I mean I get email notification of comments and sometimes I want to be able to email directly to the poster about something. Is there something I need to activate to allow me to see their email addy?

thanks if you can help!
lynn

BTW, I was in the doctor's office with my 17 year old son the other day and saw something interesting on the accenthealth screen they play in so many offices these days. Reason I was there with said son is that I thought he might have a sinus infection and called to make an appointment so he could drive himself over there from school. No can do. Seems Mom (or I guess Dad) has to sign a form saying it is OK for a minor to see the doctor without the parent present. Who knew???

Anyway, I digress. Through the sounds of screaming babies (oh my!), there was a quick story about adults with ADHD. I've always said I thought my husband had it, or ADD really, but lately my son has been complaining that he thought he might have it. I always laughed at this because if there is anyone who can sit for hours playing a video game, or now hitting Facebook, it is my Andrew. I mean there is no jumping from one thing to the next, no way. But when it comes to doing things he knows he should, and being able to pull himself away from the things that should wait, he has no control! (This oddly sounds very much like someone I know, yeah, me!)

Take a look at this little segment I found very interesting:
www.accenthealth.com/transcripts/transcript200908.pdf

I'm thinking that before this kid goes away to college, might should seek some help for him. I had been thinking he needed a motivational kick in the pants you know, and I'm not one for popping pills fro every little problemo, but who do you see for helping to learn to develop this underdeveloped portion of the brain?

Have a great Labor Day Holiday all!

Thoughts on Fall and stuff...

2009-09-02T09:41:00.003-04:00

What do y'all think of Fall?
Hey, I'm a poet and didn't even know it.

It's kinda weird this year because I was really caught unpreprared for the whole back-to-school thing. I've posted previously how I didn't get books ordered and uniforns together until the last minute... well past the last minute really.
Normally I am quite ready to get the kids back in school, but not this year.
Of course, now that we are settling into our new schedules, I am feeling really good.
Getting back on track with exercising...
My days are getting more productive...
So forth and so on.

And that's all good!
BUT, have you all been noticing the shorter days???
YUCK!
Here lies my problem with Fall.
I know that in just over a month, we will be waking up to complete darkness and our days will turn into night before 6:00 PM.
I HATE that.
Really!

What do ya'll think of fall???

Still plugging away here.

Hope to hear from ya!
later gators

Some Pretties

2009-08-31T19:52:00.005-04:00

I'm posting some things that I saved a l o n g time ago and don't think I ever shared with you.
Just some things that make me smile, for whatever reason.
SO
Just sit back and enjoy...

So, what do you think?

later gators

Working on Special Orders...

2009-08-27T16:06:00.001-04:00

order for yasmeen flowers
Originally uploaded by lwhelan

I've been working on quite a few special orders this week.
It's been fun if I do say so. And with the air conditioner out around here for the third day with no one even having looked at it yet, I'm all about trying to have some fun. Ye old sewing machine is upstairs where the air is sweet with coolness!

This one "client" sent me some Vera Bradley fabrics to work with and play with so here are a couple of flowers in Lilly and vera. I think they are getting along famously! Don't you?

latoer gators!

What the Heck...

2009-08-20T19:38:00.003-04:00

and I call myself a blogger?

Blogger, hmmm...
Let's explore just what that means:

def. blogger: "a person who keeps and updates a blog"
"A frequent, chronological publication of personal thoughts and Web links."

A blog (a contraction of the term "weblog")[1] is a type of website, usually maintained by an individual with regular entries of commentary, descriptions of events, or other material such as graphics or video. Entries are commonly displayed in reverse-chronological order. "Blog" can also be used as a verb, meaning to maintain or add content to a blog.

Do any of the above definitions describe my actions as of late? Me thinks NOT.

I am ever SO sorry! But, next week everybody is in school full-time. All books have been received and my life begins again!

In the meantime, here's a look at some "gift couture" I am presently making. And since these were so much fun, there will be a room decor version of the Lilly palm tree coming soon too.

more soon!
really

Another Sneak Peek...

2009-08-11T10:11:00.002-04:00

When the lighting is better today, I hope to get some good pictures of this newest piece.

I love it!
Well, I'm sorry, I just do.
I plan to list this as a 15 x 15 inch framed piece, ready to hang, but give the option of buyingit as an 8 x 10 print to either pop in a ready made frame or have matted and framed as you wish.

whaddya think???

later gators

WOW, Has Anyone Seen Summer...

2009-08-04T11:12:00.004-04:00

It's basically over here at the Whelan household!

With one graduating high school and one graduating eighth grade at a school that only goes through middle school, I am facing a busy and stressful year. Right now I have two year book pages to design (and pay for, yikes!), Senior Portraits to decide on (and pay for, yikes!!), college stuff to help son figure out (and pay for, yikes!!!).
Get the picture???
And me, having reached the age where making decisions just does NOT come easy.
Woe is me...

Now, onto something fun!
A sweet follower asked me a while back if I would help her celebrate her 200th post on her blog, by participating in a giveaway and I was happy to oblige. Well, today is the day. She has the prettiest blog, it just makes me happy clicking on it. So I urge you to take a look for yourself, and while you're there, go ahead and enter for the giveaway.

Here she is at SweetTeaDiaries!

I also would like to give a HUGE apology to Georgana over at AdornIt and all of the participants of the Blog Hop. I have been struggling with all that I have going on in my head right now and evidently the stress is getting to my brain, as my head has been killing me for a while now and my creativity has come to a crashing hault. Again, please forgive me!

later gators

Wildlife at Rose Dhu, the continuing saga...

2009-07-25T10:08:00.006-04:00

We have been enjoying our Summer here on the river and somehow with the slower pace we,ve really noticed the wildlife that abounds here.

While Larry was working on the boat the other night, we noticed through the window that there were tons of porpoise out in the river and that they seemed really close to the dock. So, Morgan and I headed down there, camera in hand. What a show they put on for us, for quite a while. We both tried really hard to guess where they would pop up next, so that we could capture their faces. But alas, we were just too slow, and they were just too mysterious. If any of us had known how to use Andrew's video camera, we could have had sometihng to show you. Of course we didn't even think of it until we were easily 30 minutes into the show and he wasn't home to help. Morgan did get one semidecent shot though, and if you look closely you can see this little guy's face in the water. (She has been asking me for a couple of days to get this posted!)

And the other day, as I was sitting in front of the computer, this little guy caught my eye. At first I thought it was going to be the usual squirrel, but then I realized what I was seeing. We watched (and worried) about him for a little while. Sure hope he found mama.

By the way, the same day I went out and removed all of the moss from the darn pen. What an eyesore! And I didn't even get any chiggers, which isn't the case for poor larry who is covered in them after cutting the grass!!!

And of course, there was this guy a couple of weeks ago. Although he has since been captured and I believe relocated elsewhere. Far, far away I hope!

Do keep in mind he was a lot smaller than he looks here. But still!

Well, that's it for now I guess, but stay tuned, never know what'll be next.

later gators (literally!)
ha!

Great News!

2009-07-23T15:16:00.005-04:00

The bag, not the model. Thank goodness. What would I do without her!
Thank you Catherine!!!

And now, look at this little cutie I designed.
I love it. Seriously, it's such a great idea and so sweet.
I'll be makin' lots more of these soon.
And I have 2 more aprons in the works. After my weekend company, I'm gettin busy!

gotta run!
time for cut and color!!!

She came and we conquered...

2009-07-19T16:03:00.009-04:00

My sweet niece was kind enough to stop by even though her recent social life had her a wee bit tired. You go girl!!!

We tried to do a quick shoot and really had trouble with the strong sunshine, but we hung in there until we got a few good ones. Darn the ones in the white dress. They would have been so good if not for the horrible glare and shadows.

Anyhoo, I plan on listing this cutie this evening at an introductory price to see how it is received.

later gators!

This college thing can be a real drag...

2009-07-16T19:26:00.002-04:00

I am a procrastinator.
My husband is a procrastinator.
17 year old son is a procrastinator.
13 year old daughter is too.

I am in for a busy year with one graduating high school and one graduating 8th grade. Or so everyone keeps telling me. I'm sort of freaking out. So, I am trying to get a head start on a few things college related, like getting the college resume together, trying to locate scholarship money, thinking of options for schools to visit and figuring out when...

It's hard work, and hard to figure out where to start and how to proceed. I usually like spedning time on the computer, but this is ridiculous.

And do you know you can't even get ahold of applications yet. They don't post them for a while. I am worried for son because he plays football and he's taking 4 or 5 AP courses his senior year. So how do you fit in writing essays, visiting colleges, taking the ACT, being involved in a couple of extracurricular (I don't think that's spelled correctly!) activities, maybe even a little bit of a social life???

If anyone has any advice, bring it on!!!

Oh, and I am working on several drink cozies, another apron or 2, and I have got to make some more luggage tags!!! I'll post some pics soon, I hope.

later gators

Oh No She Didn't...

2009-07-13T15:29:00.003-04:00

Oh Yes!

I did.

I made a clutch handbag.

I'm so proud. I love it.

Here's a peek

I need to get my model back over here. The apron sold in a matter of hours, and I made a sale for a custom order from it as well.
But before she gets here, imagine it first with a pair of jeans and a fun white tee and some cute Summer sandals.
AND, wouldn't it look great with this?

Yes, I think so too!

later gators!

Thank You Ladies!

2009-07-10T10:33:00.006-04:00

Ladies. Thanks for your input (Jamie, you not so much, just kidding!), I am taking all into consideration. I am tryig to work on the hairbands for those that have been asking. I am just afraid that the flower itself might not hold up to all of that twisting and all, and the way it is attached as well. Amber the flower is actually glued right on to the hairpin, so figuring out how to do this with an elastic has been tough.

The best sellers in the shop are definitely the luggage tags and the original flower pendant/pins. I have sold so many more of both of these not even from the online sight! And have had several wholesale inquiries as well. And I get lots of people asking for more of the fabric flowers.

But guess what, I have a new model, who happens to be my adorable and very sweet niece. And the best part of all, although she doesn't have a drop of my blood running through her veins, she somehow got the gene. The creative gene! More about that soon, but for now...
Here she is modeling a couple of my goodies:

And something new in the shop:

Isn't she darling? The apron, not the niece. Just kidding.

lator gators

Make it or Break it???

2009-07-08T12:57:00.011-04:00

IF...
there is anyone left out there trying to keep up with the blog, I have a question for you.
When I decide on a new item to make in the shop I only make one or two and then decide whether to proceed or not. Obvioulsy most of these items would best and most efficiently made in larger quantities.

Here's where you come in.
I need your advice.
Which od the following items do you think I should continue making, and which should hit the old scraproom floor.

Sorry, I may have added too many at one time.
(BTW, under the necklace is wall decor, a checkbook cover, and coasters)
Mostly I guess tell me what you don't think I should continue with. Honest opinions, I wouldn't ask if I didn't really want to know!

thanks!!!

Slacker!!!

2009-07-03T09:17:00.004-04:00

That would be me of course!

Something about the kids being home for the Summer just zaps the creativity right out of me. And well, I guess leaves me pretty much speechless... except for the same chants over and over...

get out of bed!
clean up your dishes!
get dressed!
we have blah,blah,blah, make your own lunch
get up and get your own drink refill (please!!!)

well, you get the idea.
In fact the only reason I feel normal enough right now to be here blogging is because they both spent the night at Tybee last night! woohoo!!!

Anyways, I have emailed the seemingly only person to have both signed up to follow me here AND leave a comment to see if she wants the box of goodies. That would be Glenna. If I don't hear back, we'll try again another time.

Here's my latest creative endeavor:

gotta run!
lots to do today
later gators

Giveaway News

2009-06-25T09:47:00.004-04:00

Has anyone started following the blog here (look to the right) besides my one international friend, or the shop (look at the bottom of the righthand sidebar)?

Be sure to leave me a comment letting me know, and I guess I need email addies too.

Come on ladies. It really is a nice assortment of goodies and when the bigger box arrives I will probably add more!!!

Also, just listed a new luggage tag for those who might not be "into" the Lilly Pulitzer thing. It sure is pretty! And a little less $$$ than the Lilly ones. Speaking of which, I just scored a new, large selection of Lilly fabrics that should arrive soon. I'm excited!!!

later gators!

Darn USPS!

2009-06-22T10:11:00.007-04:00

What happened to the neat sized box that was Priority Flat Rate that was perfect for 12x12 scrap stuff???

Now to get one big enough to hold the papers, it is over 5 inches thick. Oh well, I stuffed everything into the smaller size (I think 3" thick) that is NOT flat rate before I realized it, and I have ordered the larger size and will just put it inside (hopefully) and it will cost $13.95 to ship.

ETA: As stated in the listing over in the shop, I will not be offering this giveaway to international friends. I'm sorry, but since it is already boxed in a Flat Rate box I am not able to ship overseas. Maybe next time.

Here's some pics of the stash.

Wow, even I had forgotten what all I put in there. And let me tell you, I had to stuff it in there.
There are of course a ton of papers, many are themed and have stickers to match, ribbon, dimensional stickers...
I added a lot of rubons as well. Some I have used parts of, some are complete.
I even included a nice stack of handmade cards I picked up at swaps, etc. These are really nice cards but I've come to realize I don't send cards, just collect them, ha!

SO, remember, to enter for the giveaway (free full box of goodies, you just pay the $13.95 shipping!), just become a follower of this here blog, or go to my shop and start following me there, leave a comment here letting me know and you are entered to win.

I will pick the random winner on July 1!!!

In the meantime I am also listing lots of items for sale in the shop too, so be sure to check there often.

Disclaimer: In order to let my customers know of the giveaway I listed it in my shop. Obviously I can't enter the amount as $0 or someone would just buy it and that would be that. SO, I put a price of $50 and then listed the giveaway in the description. I will tell you that if someone happens to buy it for $50, I'll have to come up with something else as the giveaway, LOL!!!

thanks friends!

Had a Whale of a Good Time

2009-06-20T10:45:00.003-04:00

I had fun with the nautical theme for this week.
There are many more things I want to include with this theme, like anchors, shells, and the like. And I am definitely going to do more with the inking.
I have a problem though, and could use some help.
I just have too much stuff!!!
SO, I am going to load up a flat rate priority box with as much stuff as it will hold and give it away. Yep, you heard me right, give it away. Free!!! The only thing that I ask is that you pay for the shipping. Now if you happen to have some good fabric scraps you think I would like...

I will be getting the first box together (yes, there may be more) soon and will list it also in the shop as well. All that I ask that you do in order to qualify for a random pick is to subscribe to my blog and/or my shop, and then leave a comment letting me know that you did.
I'll let you know when I have the box ready and then I'll give a week for everyone to sign up.

Should be fun!!!
later gator

Nautical Week

2009-06-17T21:49:00.004-04:00

Well the butterflies are flittering off to Australia, and I've temporarliy moved on to nautical week in the studio.

I have been meaning to do a series of nautical themed items, and now is the time.
I've started with a few cards and we'll see what comes next.

This one was started a while back when I got this set of stamps by Anna Griffin. I've always been a fan, but not of all of her stuff. Some of it is too fussy for me. This pattern however, is very "me", and I jumped right in and stamped a few colors of backgrounds. I love this blue!!!

And then there's this one. It incorporates one of my favorite inking techniques I learned from my buddy Tim Holtz. Well I learned it from one of his videos or on his blog. It's simple really. You just take some of his Ditress inks and blot them directly onto a craft sheet, and then spritz it with water. Then rub your paper/cardstock into it. You can then dry it, and redo it several times for a neat effect.

bon voyage y'all.
That's nautical talk for I'm pooped and gotta go to bed!

Looky what I made...

2009-06-15T17:56:00.006-04:00

OOpS!!!
My bAd

Meant to post these butterflies I inked and shimmered and embossed.

Oh, and just so there's no confusion... that is my 17 year old son in the first pic. I'm not a pervert, LOL!

New shop banner...

2009-06-14T20:33:00.004-04:00

Oops, click on it to see the whole thing. Or, just go here!
I'm liking it a whole lot better.
Still not sure though.

I would really like to work on my blog too.
It's just not "me" yet!!!

later gators

I've Fallen and I Can't Get Up!!!

2009-06-13T17:54:00.004-04:00

Off of the blogging wagon that is.
So sorry.
I'll be back next week.
I promise.

Day 9 of a 10 Day Listing and Posting Challenge...

2009-06-02T21:25:00.004-04:00

I kind of feel like I am rounding the corner of the last leg home. I can see the finish line, yeah!

Today in the shop I listed something new for me. I think I may have posted pics here when I made it, but hadn't listed it yet. It is the first in hopefully a series of Lilly (and maybe other designers) Room Decor. I meant for this to be a stndard size like 8 x 10, but I got excited and forgot to trim down the cardstock before I got started. So this one is being mounted to a gorgeous piece of patterned paper that really enhances it and it can fit into a 12 x 12 frame. I know they sell them at Michaels and AC Moore. I am going to paint one up for display purposes and offer to sell it if anyone is interested (without glass of course, for ease of shipping ). I am not happy with the photos so I'll work on that too, after the big b'day soiree in a few days.

The shop I am highlighting today is ScrapbookCompleted. Her scrapbook offerings range from tag albums to full custom scrapbooks. I have chosen one of her card sets here and I really like the little tree pattern and how she coordinated the mats.

So, that't it for day 9. See you tomorrow, same bat time, same bat channel.

Day 8, Ain't it Great!

2009-06-01T19:28:00.004-04:00

Well I must say, this really has been a challenge for me.

I don't know why but these last few days are just a'draggin' for me. I think it really is because we are about to be over with school and I just feel burned out in the way of responsibilty right now. Anyone out there in blogland know what I mean???

This is the same reason my poor daughter's birthday's have always been so lame. Just can't seem to keep it together by the end of May, what with Memorial Day being a holiday and all (her birthday is May 26, Memorial Day weekend). We've changed all that this year though. I'll tell you all about it in a couple more days.

I relisted this beauty today. I'm sorry I don't mean to brag, but when I made this card I was so proud of myself. And at $3.50 I think it's a steal. Yet here it sits in my shop, not getting any love. For a short time I was a sales rep for a company that sold stamping supplies from many different companies. Hero Arts, My Favorite Things (images used here), Stampendous, and Inkadinkadoo to name just a few. Problem was, I had never stamped. So when I learned enough to make the background and color in the image stamp here, ... I was proud!!!
Sorry, I'm rambling...

I am highlighting an item from Lisa Connor's shop today, PinkyCreations.

I love this set! It's adorable. The image itself is too cute, I would love to own one of these in real life!!! And the little cards are mini sized, come with envelopes and those scalloped stickers too. Perfect either for the flap of the envelope or to use separately altogether. Love it! And all for only $5.50. I mean you get 6 of each for goodness sakes!!!

OK, gotta run (not literally)

OMG, is School Out YET???

2009-05-31T21:18:00.007-04:00

Actually no, not for us.

But it sure feels like it should be!

High School son is out and 7th grade daughter has school until 12 tomorrow and 11 Tueasday, and then we are done.............................yes!

Of course, give me a week or so and I'll be crying about something. Spending too much time watching TV or on the internet (son), or constantly telling me how bored they are(daughter). Oh well, you can't win for losing.

Now back to DAY 7 of the 10 Day Challenge.

I listed another paper flower today. It's funny for me switching around all the time creating with either paper or fabric. And it causes double the mess in my house!!!

ut I haven't done any of these flowers in a while and when a couple of people express interest, it just doesn't make sense to only make a couple. And it's so much fun to see what they end up looking like in the end.

Now, I'm also going to share 2 items from other shops tonight since I skipped yesterday.
First up there's Laurie Mitchell's shop, jemily.
Her shop features some pretty handstamped items.
I love this card/gift bag combo. Wouldn't it be a nice package to bring a friend who just had a baby girl? And I just love the pink and green combo.

And next up is ThePaperFlowerShop. Sheila's shop is full of pretty cards and some, guess what, paper flowers. She has a great selection of wedding related cards, but I chose to highlight this colorful set of girly cupcake birthday cards. I sure would have liked to have these on hand when my daughter was younger. We were always in need of a card or 2 for birthdays!

So, that's it for day 7. It has been so fun getting to see the shops of other girls on the same greeting card team. It's amazing how varied the offerings can be.

See you tomorrow, with day 8.
Until then...

Oops, almost forgot Day 6...

2009-05-30T22:05:00.005-04:00

This is going to be a quickie post since I almost let this day get away from me.

I listed a slightly shabby, but oh so chic card today. I really like making these cards since they satisfy my my love of both fabric and paper and I get to do a paper piecing kind of thing here. I am so close to doing actual collages, but something just seems to hold me back.

Here's a closeup of the details:

I promise I'll highlight 2 other shops tomorrow!

Until then...

Is It Really Only Day 5???

2009-05-29T16:43:00.004-04:00

Wow, this is fun and a lot of work. Discipline, discipline...

OK, so here's my second paper flower I've posted lately.

They really do turn out pretty, with just the right amount of fluffs and folds.

I enjoy making each one a unique entity, just like in nature itself!

Today's shop highlight is PercivalRoadDesigns. I just love the old fashioned images the name alone conjures up in my head. And the shop delivers. It has an assortment of vintage style paper goods. Cute stuff.

One of my favorites is this library style pocket and notecard, and the price can't be beat!

Gotta love those velvet leaves!

OK, gotta go help a 13 year old (yeah, like she's gonna let me!) think about getting ready for a dance.

later gators

Day 4 and there's so much more...

2009-05-28T19:32:00.004-04:00

OK, let's just see here.

Well, I relisted again today, BUT it's not for lack of making things. It's just that many of them are fabric items and I want to keep as many paper things in this challenge as possible.

I really like this next shop. It's full of all kinds of paper goodies. It's CarasScrapnStampShop. I love this house shaped card. It's perfect for a friend that moves into a new home, or a couple's first home.

Now, if any of you happen to see this in time, come join me over in the virtual labs at Etsy around 9:00 tonight, I think they are going to critique my shop for me!

Hope to see you there!

Day 3 of 10 Day Challenge

2009-05-27T10:08:00.004-04:00

Back to my roots.

My latest addition to my shop brings me full circle. When I first opened my shop, my intention was to turn my massive stash of scrapbooking supplies into some pretty accessories, all the while making a little spending money. My too many hours of looking and thinking while perusing the internet sparked my making these paper flowers. It wasn't until finding the amazingly helpful forum over at Etsy that some other sellers suggested turning them into hairclips, brooches, etc.

And voila, I actually sold a few. But, my crafting ADD quickly had me turn in other directions and so I stopped making the paper flowers for a while. I have recently had some requests, so here they are again.

I know, the photo is a bit blurry. It's hard to get a good, clear macro shot on a less than sunny day. And we have had all too many of thosE lately!

Now, to highlight another one of my teammates cards...
Today I choose to show you a floral card from IsabellaFlora in keeping with my flower motif.
I think this particual image is stunning, but there are so many others available in her shop, it's hard to pic a fave.
So, be sure to check out our shops and see you tomorrow!

Day 2 of the 10 Day Challenge

2009-05-26T20:42:00.005-04:00

Today I relisted an item, but not because I was lazy or didn't have something else to list. I just wanted to give them another chance at the top since I have been listing so much lately. I really have meant to make more with the nautical theme. I like the color combo very much of read, white and light and dark blue. So classic, yet fresh, and crisp.

So here they are once again, my nautical tags:

And now to feature another one of my challengemates items:
This adorable garden boot is from Terri at http://www.terrbear37.etsy.com/.

Until tomorrow!

Good Monday Mornin', Y'all...

2009-05-25T08:20:00.006-04:00

I am looking outside right now, and there is actually a brightness to the sky. I even saw a glimpse of clear blue,bordered by a slightly less ominous gray than usual for the past couple of weeks. Not the typical Memorial Day holiday weather here in sunny Savannah!

I wanted to let you all know about something going on with me this week. Over at Etsy I am a member of the EtsyGreetingsTeam. It is a group of sellers that have, well, greeting cards in their shops. They are a wonderful group and often come up with challenges, promos and such. Those of you that have known me, know that I am not good with commitments, but I took this one on.
So, for the next 10 days I am going to list an item in my shop, blog about it here and mention one of my fellow challenge-takers.

Here is the list of participants (besides myself):
Eve: isabellaflora.etsy.com

Lisa: pinkycreations.etsy.com, pinkycreations-pink.blogspot.com

Terri: terrbear37.etsy.com, terrbear38.blogspot.com

Laurie: jemily.etsy.com, jemily.wordpress.com

Amanda: littlebbunny.etsy.com, littlebbunny.blogspot.com

Cara: carasscrapnstampart.etsy.com

Sheila: thepaperflowershop@etsy.com

Anastasia: aa.christou@optusnet.com.au

Genelle: scrapbookcompleted.etsy.com, scrapbookcompleted.blogspot.com

UPDATE:

And here's one of my favorites from the hostess of our challenge, LittlebBunny.

thanks and have a great holiday!!!

I promised you color...

2009-05-22T17:02:00.006-04:00

This is the work of

WildWomanJewelry

.
Don't you love it??? The name AND the jewelry! And her titles are amazing too. I swear if I had any money to spread around, I would definitely be buying something from her. But I do not, so...
Just admiring it will have to do. Anyways, I wouldn't so much want to wear it, as display it somewhere. It's so yummy!!!

have a good one y'all!

because color just makes me HAPPY!...

2009-05-20T09:09:00.003-04:00

I tried for 2 days to post pictures here from the Decor8 site. (sorry, even their site is down for now!)I see it linked in so many blogs I happen upon and so went cruising through it for quite some time finding some really yummy photos to share....

but I can't get them uploaded here. They're PNG files or something, I don't know.

So for now, I'll just share one of my own...

I'll find you some color for tomorrow, I promise!!!