Knitsandgiggles
Congrats! Thank you to everyone who entered! Be sure to check back on Wednesday to enter the next giveaway: Valentine's Bead Soup III from Gem Junkie.
Showing newest 21 of 24 posts from January 2009. Show older posts
Showing newest 21 of 24 posts from January 2009. Show older posts
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Polished Two Giveaway - Winner!
The winner of the adorable wire yarnball earrings from Polished Two is:
Friday, January 30, 2009
Here We Go Steelers, Here we go!
The lyrics:
All the steeler ladies (7x) Now put your hands up
I wear black and gold - don't fit your mold - of what a lady should be
I live football, I yell at bad calls, wear Dad's Bradshaw jersey
I was raised this way, know every play, don't get me on the offensive
Look at me now, got my terrible towel, don't care if it's 3 degrees
Gonna win it and they're gonna put a ring on it
Gonna win it and they're gonna put a ring on it
In the superbowl, the Steelers will be bringin' it
Gonna win it and they're gonna put a ring on it
Here we go, oh oh ohhh oh, oh oh, oh oh oh (2x)
Gonna win it and they're gonna put a ring on it
Gonna win it and they're gonna put a ring on it
In the superbowl, the Steelers will be bringin' it
Gonna win it and they're gonna put a ring on it
Yes we can, we got Big Ben, Farrior, Miller and Reed
Holmes & Hampton, you know Tomlin came prepared to lead
Hines Ward grinnin', Willie spinnin', Lebeau is on a mission
Polamalu is gonna come through with another Super Bowl trophy
Gonna win it and they're gonna put a ring on it
Gonna win it and they're gonna put a ring on it
In the superbowl, the Steelers will be bringin' it
Gonna win it and they're gonna put a ring on it
Here we go, oh oh ohhh oh, oh oh, oh oh oh (2x)
Gonna win it and they're gonna put a ring on it
Gonna win it and they're gonna put a ring on it
In the superbowl, the Steelers will be bringin' it
Gonna win it and they're gonna put a ring on it
Here we go, oh oh ohhh oh, oh oh, oh oh oh (2x)
Don't you know we are champions of the world- see history unfurl
what we are plus what we were, makes us Pittsburgh
We're the team that takes the lead and makes you believe
in the destiny and the legacy of the Steel City and beyond!
It gets into your heart, it's a feeling all our own
We're back on the throne, with one for the other thumb
All the Steeler ladies (7x), Now put your hands up
Here we go, oh oh ohhh oh, oh oh, oh oh oh (2x)
Gonna win it and they're gonna put a ring on it
Gonna win it and they're gonna put a ring on it
In the superbowl, the Steelers will be bringin' it
Gonna win it and they're gonna put a ring on it
Gonna win it and they're gonna put a ring on it
Gonna win it and they're gonna put a ring on it
In the superbowl, the Steelers will be bringin' it
Gonna win it and they're gonna put a ring on it
HERE WE GO!
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Upcoming Giveaway!!
Do you LOVE-LOVE-LOVE beads, beading, and jewelry making? Well have I got a giveaway for you! The lovely Kelly of Gem Junkie is sponsoring this beautiful Valentine's Day giveaway: Valentine's Bead Soup III, a bag of gorgeous beads in purple, pink, and red beads. Check back on Wednesday, Feb. 4th for details on how to enter this awesome giveaway!
**As always - if you or someone you know would like to sponsor a giveaway on Mommatudes, contact me. Giveaways are a GREAT way to drive new business to your site!
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Wild Card Wednesday: CPSIA Blog In
**Today is the LAST day you can enter the Polished Two Giveaway! Please click HERE for details!**
Have you heard of this law? Chances are, if you are a crafter, you have. Written as a way of protecting our children from lead poisoning, this law requires extensive testing of toys or items that children come into contact with. Before you applaud, you should know that this will shut down most mommy-crafters and artisans.
Unfortunately, this law doesn't take into account handmade items by small-time crafters. If you've ever bought a sock monkey at a craft show or a hand-knit teddy on Etsy - then you know that these are small-producers of handmade toys and are not making a killing on these items. However, these items do help these moms (in many cases) continue to be SAHMs or WAHMs.
This law SHOULD be in effect, but with modifications. These handmade, small producers of craft toys should be held to a different standard than these mega manufacturers of children's toys. Your neighbor who sells 5 sock monkeys a month cannot afford the extremely expensive testing as say Hasbro could afford. This would drive the cost of handmade goods up exponentially and likely cause these Etsy shop owners, basement crafters, and makers of handmade gifts to go out of business altogether.
Join me today as we bloggers, crafters, friends of crafters, and/or admirers of handmade goods engage in a BLOG IN. Get the word out there and help save these crafters' businesses. In this economy, we all need to look out for each other!
Here's a post that is being cut and copied to blogs everywhere today (Many thanks to The Copper Cauldron):
As parents and concerned citizens I’m sure most of us at one time or another have been confronted with the question of lead poisoning. But have you asked yourself what your government is doing to protect your children from lead contained in toys? The answer? They're banning toys, taking books from schools and libraries, hurting low income families, killing entrepreneurial spirit and risking putting the economy in an even greater depression than we've seen in decades. I'd like to introduce you to their solution: the CPSIA.
Do you know about the CPSIA? No? Then I ask you to take a few minutes to find out about it.
The CPSIA stands for Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, a new set of laws that will come into effect on 10 February, 2009 and will impact many, many people in a negative way. Make no mistake, this is very real. View it for yourself. If Forbes, the American Library Association and numerous other media are paying attention, perhaps you should too.
How will these new laws affect you? Well, here are a few examples:
To the Parents of Young Students:
Due to the new law, expect to see the cost of school supplies sky rocket. While those paper clips weren't originally intended for your student to use, they will need to be tested now that your 11-year-old needs them for his school project. This law applies to any and all school supplies (textbooks, pencils, crayons, paper, etc.) being used by children under 12.
To the Avid Reader:
Due to the new law, all children's books will be pulled from library and school shelves, as there is no exemption for them. That’s okay though, there's always television. Our children don’t need to learn the love of reading after all.
Article from the American Library Association http://www.wo.ala.org/districtdispatch/?p=1322
To the Lover of All Things Handmade:
Due to the new law, you will now be given a cotton ball and an instruction manual so you can make it yourself since that blanket you originally had your eye on for $50 will now cost you around $1,000 after it's passed testing. It won't even be the one-of-a-kind blanket you were hoping for. Items are destroyed in the testing process making one-of-a-kind items virtually impossible. So that gorgeous hand-knit hat you bought your child this past winter won’t be available next winter.
To the Environmentalist:
Due to the new law, all items in non-compliance will now be dumped into our already overflowing landfills. Imagine not just products from the small business owners, but the Big Box Stores as well. You can't sell it so you must toss it. Or be potentially sued for selling it. You can't even give them away. If you are caught, it is still a violation.
To the Second-Hand Shopper:
Due to the new law, you will now need to spend $20 for that brand new pair of jeans for your 2-year old, rather than shop at the Goodwill for second hand. Many resale shops are eliminating children's items all together to avoid future lawsuits.
To the Entrepreneur:
Due to this new law, you will be forced to adhere to strict testing of your unique products or discontinue to make and/or sell them. Small businesses will be likely to be unable to afford the cost of testing and be forced to close up shop. Due to the current economic state, you'll have to hope for the best when it comes to finding a new job in Corporate America.
To the Antique Toy Collector:
Due to the new law, you'd better start buying now because it's all going to private collection and will no longer be available to purchase. “Because the new rules apply retroactively, toys and clothes already on the shelf will have to be thrown out if they aren't certified as safe.” http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123189645948879745.html
To the American Economy:
Already struggling under an economy that hasn’t been this weak in decades, the American economy will be hit harder with the inevitable loss of jobs and revenues from suppliers, small businesses and consumers. The required testing is far too costly and restrictive for small businesses or individuals to undertake.
To the Worldwide Economy:
Due to this new law, many foreign manufacturers have already pulled out of the US market. You can imagine the impact of this on their businesses.
If you think this is exaggerating, here is a recent article from Forbes
http://www.forbes.com/2009/01/16/cpsia-safety-toys-oped-cx_wo_0116olson.html
And for those of you prepared to be stupefied and boggled, The New Law
http://www.cpsc.gov/about/cpsia/cpsia.html
Did you know? If this upsets or alarms you, please react.
Have you heard of this law? Chances are, if you are a crafter, you have. Written as a way of protecting our children from lead poisoning, this law requires extensive testing of toys or items that children come into contact with. Before you applaud, you should know that this will shut down most mommy-crafters and artisans.Unfortunately, this law doesn't take into account handmade items by small-time crafters. If you've ever bought a sock monkey at a craft show or a hand-knit teddy on Etsy - then you know that these are small-producers of handmade toys and are not making a killing on these items. However, these items do help these moms (in many cases) continue to be SAHMs or WAHMs.
This law SHOULD be in effect, but with modifications. These handmade, small producers of craft toys should be held to a different standard than these mega manufacturers of children's toys. Your neighbor who sells 5 sock monkeys a month cannot afford the extremely expensive testing as say Hasbro could afford. This would drive the cost of handmade goods up exponentially and likely cause these Etsy shop owners, basement crafters, and makers of handmade gifts to go out of business altogether.
Join me today as we bloggers, crafters, friends of crafters, and/or admirers of handmade goods engage in a BLOG IN. Get the word out there and help save these crafters' businesses. In this economy, we all need to look out for each other!
Here's a post that is being cut and copied to blogs everywhere today (Many thanks to The Copper Cauldron):
As parents and concerned citizens I’m sure most of us at one time or another have been confronted with the question of lead poisoning. But have you asked yourself what your government is doing to protect your children from lead contained in toys? The answer? They're banning toys, taking books from schools and libraries, hurting low income families, killing entrepreneurial spirit and risking putting the economy in an even greater depression than we've seen in decades. I'd like to introduce you to their solution: the CPSIA.
Do you know about the CPSIA? No? Then I ask you to take a few minutes to find out about it.
The CPSIA stands for Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, a new set of laws that will come into effect on 10 February, 2009 and will impact many, many people in a negative way. Make no mistake, this is very real. View it for yourself. If Forbes, the American Library Association and numerous other media are paying attention, perhaps you should too.
How will these new laws affect you? Well, here are a few examples:
To the Parents of Young Students:
Due to the new law, expect to see the cost of school supplies sky rocket. While those paper clips weren't originally intended for your student to use, they will need to be tested now that your 11-year-old needs them for his school project. This law applies to any and all school supplies (textbooks, pencils, crayons, paper, etc.) being used by children under 12.
To the Avid Reader:
Due to the new law, all children's books will be pulled from library and school shelves, as there is no exemption for them. That’s okay though, there's always television. Our children don’t need to learn the love of reading after all.
Article from the American Library Association http://www.wo.ala.org/districtdispatch/?p=1322
To the Lover of All Things Handmade:
Due to the new law, you will now be given a cotton ball and an instruction manual so you can make it yourself since that blanket you originally had your eye on for $50 will now cost you around $1,000 after it's passed testing. It won't even be the one-of-a-kind blanket you were hoping for. Items are destroyed in the testing process making one-of-a-kind items virtually impossible. So that gorgeous hand-knit hat you bought your child this past winter won’t be available next winter.
To the Environmentalist:
Due to the new law, all items in non-compliance will now be dumped into our already overflowing landfills. Imagine not just products from the small business owners, but the Big Box Stores as well. You can't sell it so you must toss it. Or be potentially sued for selling it. You can't even give them away. If you are caught, it is still a violation.
To the Second-Hand Shopper:
Due to the new law, you will now need to spend $20 for that brand new pair of jeans for your 2-year old, rather than shop at the Goodwill for second hand. Many resale shops are eliminating children's items all together to avoid future lawsuits.
To the Entrepreneur:
Due to this new law, you will be forced to adhere to strict testing of your unique products or discontinue to make and/or sell them. Small businesses will be likely to be unable to afford the cost of testing and be forced to close up shop. Due to the current economic state, you'll have to hope for the best when it comes to finding a new job in Corporate America.
To the Antique Toy Collector:
Due to the new law, you'd better start buying now because it's all going to private collection and will no longer be available to purchase. “Because the new rules apply retroactively, toys and clothes already on the shelf will have to be thrown out if they aren't certified as safe.” http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123189645948879745.html
To the American Economy:
Already struggling under an economy that hasn’t been this weak in decades, the American economy will be hit harder with the inevitable loss of jobs and revenues from suppliers, small businesses and consumers. The required testing is far too costly and restrictive for small businesses or individuals to undertake.
To the Worldwide Economy:
Due to this new law, many foreign manufacturers have already pulled out of the US market. You can imagine the impact of this on their businesses.
If you think this is exaggerating, here is a recent article from Forbes
http://www.forbes.com/2009/01/16/cpsia-safety-toys-oped-cx_wo_0116olson.html
And for those of you prepared to be stupefied and boggled, The New Law
http://www.cpsc.gov/about/cpsia/cpsia.html
Did you know? If this upsets or alarms you, please react.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Double Take Tuesday: Love is in the Air
***Don't forget to enter this month's giveaway: Yarnball Earrings from Polished Two. Check it out here!
I am smitten with knitting hearts right now! This was the first heart I knitted yesterday. It is the 'Seamless Heart' by Sarloz. I knit this one up (without filling it) in Peaches & Creme - peppermint colorway. Then I got to thinking: I could knit these in a variety of colors - like conversation hearts; fill them will poly-fill; and place them in a large glass jar to adorn my table. So, I started knitting a few.
Here's the same pattern in yellow. (Lily Sugar ' Cream - yellow colorway) I filled it with poly-fill. I've got a lavendar and a solid red heart on the needles right now.
I also tried other patterns. This is a flat, garter stitch heart. I think I'll use it to embellish a hand-made Valentine.
I'm also working on Vickie Howell's 'Love Rocks' mitered heart garland. Here I have 3 of 4 hearts in color A (Lion Brand Cotton Ease - Poppy Red colorway) completed. I just need to weave in the ends.
So today, I'm going to work on completing the garland and some more seamless hearts. They are quick knits and alot of fun! My daughter wants me to knit up a few for her own little collection. :)
I'm double posting this today - so if you also follow my knitting blog, you'll see it there as well. :)
I am smitten with knitting hearts right now! This was the first heart I knitted yesterday. It is the 'Seamless Heart' by Sarloz. I knit this one up (without filling it) in Peaches & Creme - peppermint colorway. Then I got to thinking: I could knit these in a variety of colors - like conversation hearts; fill them will poly-fill; and place them in a large glass jar to adorn my table. So, I started knitting a few.
Here's the same pattern in yellow. (Lily Sugar ' Cream - yellow colorway) I filled it with poly-fill. I've got a lavendar and a solid red heart on the needles right now.
I also tried other patterns. This is a flat, garter stitch heart. I think I'll use it to embellish a hand-made Valentine.
I'm also working on Vickie Howell's 'Love Rocks' mitered heart garland. Here I have 3 of 4 hearts in color A (Lion Brand Cotton Ease - Poppy Red colorway) completed. I just need to weave in the ends.So today, I'm going to work on completing the garland and some more seamless hearts. They are quick knits and alot of fun! My daughter wants me to knit up a few for her own little collection. :)
I'm double posting this today - so if you also follow my knitting blog, you'll see it there as well. :)
Monday, January 26, 2009
Momma 'Tude Monday: Bloggy Block
Okay, I'm suffering from brain-drain. I'm not sure if it's mom-brain, bloggeritis, or just plain exhaustion -but my brain and well of creativity have run dry today! I thought perhaps creating a themed week would help me be more disciplined in my blogging - but I think a better way to blog would be when the mood and the creativity strikes me. I'll keep in theme, but now will blog when inspired!One thing I DO want to blog about today is the awesome giveaways I have going on and will have going on in February! Please don't forget to enter the Polished Two giveaway. Entries must be in by Wednesday at 12A. She is a terrific artisan and the earrings are just sublime!
In February, I have 2 more Esty shop owners giving away their wonderful wares! Be sure to stay tuned!
Toodles!
Friday, January 23, 2009
Multi-Media Friday: Crafting
***Don't forget to enter this month's giveaway: Yarnball Earrings from Polished Two. Check it out here!
Are you going through craft show withdrawl like I am? HGTV and DIY got you down since they nixxed their popular craft shows line-up? If you're still in need of a craft fix, you can look to the internet to give you all you need. I've been fortunate to find so many awesome blogs, sites, and videos on the net that I am almost okay with Scripps taking away our beloved craft shows. Almost. (Not too bitter about it) Moving on..
First up: Lifetime's Crafted
Crafted offers mini video craft tutorials on a variety of crafts. Some of the demonstrators include Vickie Howell, Crafty Chica, The O'Neil Sisters, Pattiewack, and Leah Fung. A Knitty Gritty junkie myself, I LOVE to see the Vickie Howell videos. Not into knitting? Don't worry - there is something for everyone who crafts! These videos are chock full of cute, fun, and fast crafts. Just what the doctor ordered! *Be sure to check each of these talented ladies' websites/blogs! (Also fantastic craft resources and tutorials on each site!!)
Little Birdie Secrets is a blog jam-packed with picture tutorials on a variety of crafts, cooking, and baking.. They highlight really neat craft products and vendors as well as give tips on using simple things around your house or found at your local store to create a craftacular existence. {Everything you need to be a domestic goddess.} These ladies have the cutest crafts around and make them look effortless. I LOVE me some crafting - but sometimes am all thumbs, so this blog makes it all possible for me! I also LOVE-LOVE-LOVE that Little Birdie Secrets is being featured on The Secret is in the Sauce today! How cool is that? So send 'em some bloggy love for their feature!
Not Martha is the brain-child of Megan: a self described crafter, blogger, knitter and possibly killer of clover plant. Not Martha is a resource of patterns, recipes, ideas, product reviews, and links to some cool websites. I mainly stick to her 'How to Make Stuff' category - but love her site. She's witty, creative, and brings her expertise of fine arts to the everyday lady. I especially love her mini-foods recipes and tutorials. The kids go wild for the child-sized treats!
Craftster is an online craft community, making it a craft collaborative! The posters here are varied and creative. Any craft you're interested in can be found here! I LOVE their Crafting Entertainment features, which include crafts designed around popular TV shows and movies. So cool! There are oodles of articles and community member project features. And if you're lucky, a community member will share her (or his) recipe, instructions, or patterns. Craftster offers an online store and a city guide to boot!
Craft Gossip is a crafty-cool blog network with sub-blog categories covering just about everything including: knitting, crochet, bath and body, jewelry making, scrapbooking, sewing crafts, recycled crafts, needlework, edible crafts, indie crafts and felting. You can find craft patterns and tutorials, craft product reviews, and even craft techniques. Craft Gossip even provides craft website reviews, crafty links, and crafty blogs! I have found so many new blogs and links from this site! I only wish I had more time (and money) to craft!
30 Days is the blog of the most awesome, Mique: SAHM mom, photographer, and crafter! She has fabulous links to tutorials, sewing resources, giveaways, and some great ideas! I really like her product and site reviews. How DOES she find all of these tutorials, sites, and blogs? Give her a peek - you'll be glad you did!
I wish I could mention every crafty blog and website here... I'd be blogging for days. This is just a snipnet of what's out there. So if you are mourning the loss of your beloved crafts shows (Carol Duvall, where are you?!), just Google yourself some crafty goodness. If you Google them, they will come.
What are some of your fave craft websites/blogs/ or TV shows? Post 'em here!! You know you wanna!!
Are you going through craft show withdrawl like I am? HGTV and DIY got you down since they nixxed their popular craft shows line-up? If you're still in need of a craft fix, you can look to the internet to give you all you need. I've been fortunate to find so many awesome blogs, sites, and videos on the net that I am almost okay with Scripps taking away our beloved craft shows. Almost. (Not too bitter about it) Moving on..First up: Lifetime's Crafted
Crafted offers mini video craft tutorials on a variety of crafts. Some of the demonstrators include Vickie Howell, Crafty Chica, The O'Neil Sisters, Pattiewack, and Leah Fung. A Knitty Gritty junkie myself, I LOVE to see the Vickie Howell videos. Not into knitting? Don't worry - there is something for everyone who crafts! These videos are chock full of cute, fun, and fast crafts. Just what the doctor ordered! *Be sure to check each of these talented ladies' websites/blogs! (Also fantastic craft resources and tutorials on each site!!)
Little Birdie Secrets is a blog jam-packed with picture tutorials on a variety of crafts, cooking, and baking.. They highlight really neat craft products and vendors as well as give tips on using simple things around your house or found at your local store to create a craftacular existence. {Everything you need to be a domestic goddess.} These ladies have the cutest crafts around and make them look effortless. I LOVE me some crafting - but sometimes am all thumbs, so this blog makes it all possible for me! I also LOVE-LOVE-LOVE that Little Birdie Secrets is being featured on The Secret is in the Sauce today! How cool is that? So send 'em some bloggy love for their feature!
Not Martha is the brain-child of Megan: a self described crafter, blogger, knitter and possibly killer of clover plant. Not Martha is a resource of patterns, recipes, ideas, product reviews, and links to some cool websites. I mainly stick to her 'How to Make Stuff' category - but love her site. She's witty, creative, and brings her expertise of fine arts to the everyday lady. I especially love her mini-foods recipes and tutorials. The kids go wild for the child-sized treats!
Craftster is an online craft community, making it a craft collaborative! The posters here are varied and creative. Any craft you're interested in can be found here! I LOVE their Crafting Entertainment features, which include crafts designed around popular TV shows and movies. So cool! There are oodles of articles and community member project features. And if you're lucky, a community member will share her (or his) recipe, instructions, or patterns. Craftster offers an online store and a city guide to boot!Craft Gossip is a crafty-cool blog network with sub-blog categories covering just about everything including: knitting, crochet, bath and body, jewelry making, scrapbooking, sewing crafts, recycled crafts, needlework, edible crafts, indie crafts and felting. You can find craft patterns and tutorials, craft product reviews, and even craft techniques. Craft Gossip even provides craft website reviews, crafty links, and crafty blogs! I have found so many new blogs and links from this site! I only wish I had more time (and money) to craft!
I wish I could mention every crafty blog and website here... I'd be blogging for days. This is just a snipnet of what's out there. So if you are mourning the loss of your beloved crafts shows (Carol Duvall, where are you?!), just Google yourself some crafty goodness. If you Google them, they will come.
What are some of your fave craft websites/blogs/ or TV shows? Post 'em here!! You know you wanna!!
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Family Day Thursday: Favorite Things
***Don't forget to enter this month's giveaway: Yarnball Earrings from Polished Two. Check it out here!
Wanna help your kids get started in preserving memories? Why not create a 'Favorite Things' album? My daughter is turning 4 next month and I thought it would be great to create an album of her favorite things from when she was 3. Compile pictures (use photo copies), scrapbookable trinkets, candy wrappers.. whatever made them happiest. It can be a favorite things album for 2008 or since their last birthday OR even just a current favorite things album to coincide with Valentine's Day.
There is a floral dress that she would NOT put down. She wanted to wear it EVERYWHERE! Needless-to-say, it's stained, broken, and battered. - Not exactly donation material. So I decided to cut a swatch from the dress and include it in her favorite things album.
I purchased this adorable chipboard heart-shaped scrapbook album. It stands on it's own and has a 3 ring system - which is great for including teeny bags that can hold tiny treasures. (Just punch holes in the sides or top of the bag and include in the album) We are collecting items right now. We've even made a special trip to Michael's to buy scrapbook embellishments and heart-themed paper. Now all we have to do is put it together!!
It will be so much fun to put this album together with her. And in the end, she'll have a keepsake of what her favorite things were when she was 3 years old.
Not into scrapbooking? Grab your child's old clothes (one's that no longer fit) and cut squares out of each garment (for my daughter, 3 x 3 inch squares are about right given the size of her clothes). Be sure to use a straight edge and ruler. (I LOVE quilting rulers, mats, and rotary cutters for this project!) Cut out as many squares as you can and then arrange them on a tabletop until you get a configuration you like. Sew all of the squares together into a quilt top. For the quilt backing, I like to grab an old blankie and use it. Just be sure to measure so that everything sews up nicely. It can be as big or small as you like. (Small memory quilts make nice hangable art!) Quilt the top using scraps of yarn! What could be easier? And you have a remembrance of that cute little shirt, dress, or jeans he/she wore.
Don't scrapbook or sew? Grab some shoeboxes or shadow box frames, scrapbook or construction paper, adhesive or glue, embellishments, and a Sunday afternoon and create a memory box or a memory shadow box!
How does your family preserve memorabilia?
Wanna help your kids get started in preserving memories? Why not create a 'Favorite Things' album? My daughter is turning 4 next month and I thought it would be great to create an album of her favorite things from when she was 3. Compile pictures (use photo copies), scrapbookable trinkets, candy wrappers.. whatever made them happiest. It can be a favorite things album for 2008 or since their last birthday OR even just a current favorite things album to coincide with Valentine's Day.There is a floral dress that she would NOT put down. She wanted to wear it EVERYWHERE! Needless-to-say, it's stained, broken, and battered. - Not exactly donation material. So I decided to cut a swatch from the dress and include it in her favorite things album.
I purchased this adorable chipboard heart-shaped scrapbook album. It stands on it's own and has a 3 ring system - which is great for including teeny bags that can hold tiny treasures. (Just punch holes in the sides or top of the bag and include in the album) We are collecting items right now. We've even made a special trip to Michael's to buy scrapbook embellishments and heart-themed paper. Now all we have to do is put it together!!
It will be so much fun to put this album together with her. And in the end, she'll have a keepsake of what her favorite things were when she was 3 years old.
Not into scrapbooking? Grab your child's old clothes (one's that no longer fit) and cut squares out of each garment (for my daughter, 3 x 3 inch squares are about right given the size of her clothes). Be sure to use a straight edge and ruler. (I LOVE quilting rulers, mats, and rotary cutters for this project!) Cut out as many squares as you can and then arrange them on a tabletop until you get a configuration you like. Sew all of the squares together into a quilt top. For the quilt backing, I like to grab an old blankie and use it. Just be sure to measure so that everything sews up nicely. It can be as big or small as you like. (Small memory quilts make nice hangable art!) Quilt the top using scraps of yarn! What could be easier? And you have a remembrance of that cute little shirt, dress, or jeans he/she wore.
Don't scrapbook or sew? Grab some shoeboxes or shadow box frames, scrapbook or construction paper, adhesive or glue, embellishments, and a Sunday afternoon and create a memory box or a memory shadow box!
How does your family preserve memorabilia?
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Wordless Wednesday: Medical Assisting Class
***Don't forget to enter this month's giveaway: Yarnball Earrings from Polished Two. Check it out here!
Okay, I know I'm breaking the rules on my very first Wordless Wednesday - but I feel I must offer some explanation. My medical assisting students had to practice patient positioning and one position, lithotomy, is used for gynecologic exams. Well, my students decided to play around and deliver our dummy babies. They were a great group of students! {I miss them}
Okay, I know I'm breaking the rules on my very first Wordless Wednesday - but I feel I must offer some explanation. My medical assisting students had to practice patient positioning and one position, lithotomy, is used for gynecologic exams. Well, my students decided to play around and deliver our dummy babies. They were a great group of students! {I miss them}
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Double Take Tuesday: Obama Icon Me!
***Don't forget to enter this month's giveaway: Yarnball Earrings from Polished Two. Check it out here!
In honor of the inaugural festivities today, I skipped on over to Obama Icon Me and created an Obama-style poster of myself. Okay, so this is a bit cheesy - but I couldn't resist. You can upload any photo or take a webcam pic of yourself (or really anything) and create your own custom caption. I went with the 'Hope' caption because I feel hopeful and full of excitement today. For a more hilarious take, browse the user gallery and top rated Obama-icons. There are some really creative and {cough} interesting posters out there! Check it out! Oh, if you create a poster and post to your blog - be sure to post a link to it in the comments so the others can check it out!!! :) I'd love to see what y'all come up with! :D
Will you watch any of the inaugural coverage or recaps today?
In honor of the inaugural festivities today, I skipped on over to Obama Icon Me and created an Obama-style poster of myself. Okay, so this is a bit cheesy - but I couldn't resist. You can upload any photo or take a webcam pic of yourself (or really anything) and create your own custom caption. I went with the 'Hope' caption because I feel hopeful and full of excitement today. For a more hilarious take, browse the user gallery and top rated Obama-icons. There are some really creative and {cough} interesting posters out there! Check it out! Oh, if you create a poster and post to your blog - be sure to post a link to it in the comments so the others can check it out!!! :) I'd love to see what y'all come up with! :D
Will you watch any of the inaugural coverage or recaps today?
Monday, January 19, 2009
Momma 'Tude Monday: Here We Go Steelers!/Happy Martin Luther King Jr. Day
***Don't forget to enter this month's giveaway: Yarnball Earrings from Polished Two. Check it out here!
I stayed up late to watch the AFC Championship Game last night!!! As a transplanted Clevelander living in Pittsburgh, it was a hard pill to swallow - watching the Browns continually lose (Anderson, what happened to you?) and the Steelers continually win.. But it wasn't hard to get behind the Steelers when my beloved Browns were definitely out of it. And it sure as heck wasn't hard to get behind whatever team was playing the Ravens (I mean come on, Matt Stover - you're STILL playing for the traitor team?).
The Steelers did not disappoint! It was a really good game. I was scared early on when Ward was taken out of the game, but relieved when in the last 3 minutes of the 4th quarter it became apparent we'd win!
The craziness here in Pittsburgh has reached fever pitch! The local news showed video of all of the loyal, screaming fans! These next two weeks in the steel city are going to be absolutely insane! Go Steelers!!!
I want to wish everyone a Happy Martin Luther King Jr. Day. As we celebrate his birthday today, let us not forget how relevant his words and teachings still are today. A pioneer in civil rights, Dr. King called to us to bring equality to all Americans; to closely examine our role in "all men are created equal." He wanted us to realize that the American Dream is for ALL Americans, not just select Americans. So today it is important that we tell our children about Dr. King. It is important that we commemorate his life by living his words. Racism as well as sexism and age-ism are still issues in our country. Sexual preference and religious preference are also still issues. Let us celebrate each other's differences and come together as one people to raise up our great country. We're all in this together.
I stayed up late to watch the AFC Championship Game last night!!! As a transplanted Clevelander living in Pittsburgh, it was a hard pill to swallow - watching the Browns continually lose (Anderson, what happened to you?) and the Steelers continually win.. But it wasn't hard to get behind the Steelers when my beloved Browns were definitely out of it. And it sure as heck wasn't hard to get behind whatever team was playing the Ravens (I mean come on, Matt Stover - you're STILL playing for the traitor team?).
The Steelers did not disappoint! It was a really good game. I was scared early on when Ward was taken out of the game, but relieved when in the last 3 minutes of the 4th quarter it became apparent we'd win!
The craziness here in Pittsburgh has reached fever pitch! The local news showed video of all of the loyal, screaming fans! These next two weeks in the steel city are going to be absolutely insane! Go Steelers!!!
I want to wish everyone a Happy Martin Luther King Jr. Day. As we celebrate his birthday today, let us not forget how relevant his words and teachings still are today. A pioneer in civil rights, Dr. King called to us to bring equality to all Americans; to closely examine our role in "all men are created equal." He wanted us to realize that the American Dream is for ALL Americans, not just select Americans. So today it is important that we tell our children about Dr. King. It is important that we commemorate his life by living his words. Racism as well as sexism and age-ism are still issues in our country. Sexual preference and religious preference are also still issues. Let us celebrate each other's differences and come together as one people to raise up our great country. We're all in this together.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Baby Tag
I got this from Melinda at Bloggin' it From the 'Burbs. It's a first baby questionaire.
1. Were you married at the time? No
2. What were your reactions when you found out you were pregnant? Dazed and confused
3. How old were you? 20
4.How did you find out? Gyn
5. Who did you tell first? My mom
6. Did you want to find out the sex? Definitely.
7. Due date? July 28, 1995
8. Did you deliver late or on time? I delivered two weeks early on July 4th!
9. Did you have morning sickness? I had NON-STOP morning sickness for the first 4 1/2 months! I lost 10 pounds!
10. What did you crave? Mashed potatoes and green peppers
11. Who/what irritated you the most? Even though it was unplanned and I was in college, my (now) husband and I had been dating for years and were planning on getting married after college graduation. It was horrible timing, but a baby is a baby and we were in love at the time (still are). It's not like it was a one-night stand. What really irritated me were people who couldn't be happy for me and treated me as though I had leprosy! It wasn't an ideal situation. We all make mistakes. I knew it wasn't the baby himself that was the mistake and I gladly welcomed him into my life.
12. What was your first child's sex? a boy
13. How many pounds did you gain throughout pregnancy? 55 pounds - OINK! OINK! OINK!
14. Did you have any complications during pregnancy? Pre-term labor at 7 months and 24/7 bedrest with Brethine for 2 months
15. Where did you give birth? Fairview General Hospital, Cleveland
16. How many hours were you in labor? 6 hours
17. Who drove you to the hospital? My dad
18. Who watched? My mom
19. Was it natural or c-section? natural...with drugs of course
20. Did you take medication to ease the pain? Yes, but then had to be taken off the epidural so I could feel to push - YIKES!
21. How much did your child weigh? 6lb., 12 oz.
22. Did your child have any complications? No, thank God!!
23. What did you name him? Brian Alexander
24. How old is your first born today? Thirteen - Can you believe it?! We also have a 3 yr old (soon to be 4 yr old daughter!). Oh- and after DH graduated from college, we got married as planned (not because we had to, because we loved each other and wanted to) and have been HAPPILY married for 11 years! (DS was the ring bearer in our wedding.)
Feel free to share your baby story!!
1. Were you married at the time? No
2. What were your reactions when you found out you were pregnant? Dazed and confused
3. How old were you? 20
4.How did you find out? Gyn
5. Who did you tell first? My mom
6. Did you want to find out the sex? Definitely.
7. Due date? July 28, 1995
8. Did you deliver late or on time? I delivered two weeks early on July 4th!
9. Did you have morning sickness? I had NON-STOP morning sickness for the first 4 1/2 months! I lost 10 pounds!
10. What did you crave? Mashed potatoes and green peppers
11. Who/what irritated you the most? Even though it was unplanned and I was in college, my (now) husband and I had been dating for years and were planning on getting married after college graduation. It was horrible timing, but a baby is a baby and we were in love at the time (still are). It's not like it was a one-night stand. What really irritated me were people who couldn't be happy for me and treated me as though I had leprosy! It wasn't an ideal situation. We all make mistakes. I knew it wasn't the baby himself that was the mistake and I gladly welcomed him into my life.
12. What was your first child's sex? a boy
13. How many pounds did you gain throughout pregnancy? 55 pounds - OINK! OINK! OINK!
14. Did you have any complications during pregnancy? Pre-term labor at 7 months and 24/7 bedrest with Brethine for 2 months
15. Where did you give birth? Fairview General Hospital, Cleveland
16. How many hours were you in labor? 6 hours
17. Who drove you to the hospital? My dad
18. Who watched? My mom
19. Was it natural or c-section? natural...with drugs of course
20. Did you take medication to ease the pain? Yes, but then had to be taken off the epidural so I could feel to push - YIKES!
21. How much did your child weigh? 6lb., 12 oz.
22. Did your child have any complications? No, thank God!!
23. What did you name him? Brian Alexander
24. How old is your first born today? Thirteen - Can you believe it?! We also have a 3 yr old (soon to be 4 yr old daughter!). Oh- and after DH graduated from college, we got married as planned (not because we had to, because we loved each other and wanted to) and have been HAPPILY married for 11 years! (DS was the ring bearer in our wedding.)
Feel free to share your baby story!!
Saturday, January 17, 2009
It's Getting Exciting Around Mommatudes!
***Don't forget to enter this month's giveaway: Yarnball Earrings from Polished Two. Check it out here!
Just a quick note to let you know that I've got 2 more sponsored giveaways coming up in February!! I can't give out the details yet.. it's a secret! All I can say is that the next 2 sponsors are also talented Etsy shop owners like Polished Two!
Stay tuned!! As always, Mommatudes selects the winners by random number generator - so why not give it a shot?
Do you own a business or know someone who does? Why not sponsor a giveaway on Mommatudes and drive traffic to your site? Email me for details!
Just a quick note to let you know that I've got 2 more sponsored giveaways coming up in February!! I can't give out the details yet.. it's a secret! All I can say is that the next 2 sponsors are also talented Etsy shop owners like Polished Two!Stay tuned!! As always, Mommatudes selects the winners by random number generator - so why not give it a shot?
Do you own a business or know someone who does? Why not sponsor a giveaway on Mommatudes and drive traffic to your site? Email me for details!
Friday, January 16, 2009
Here a spot, There a spot, Everywhere a spot, spot
***Don't forget to enter this month's giveaway: Yarnball Earrings from Polished Two. Check it out here!
Ordinarily, I'd blog on Fridays about something multi-media.. and given the really interesting things that came out of the Consumer Electronics Show, I had a whole bunch I wanted to blog about today. HOWEVER, DD woke up yesterday with a few 'pimples' on her back,tummy, and cheeks. She'd been running a fever for 3 days and now a rash. I was hoping it was just a febrile rash (rash due to fever). But today, she woke up with 3 times as many spots - EVERYWHERE! I'm thinking we either have a case of the measles or the chicken pox. If it is chicken pox, the spots should get bigger and become blisters. If it's measles, they'll spread out everywhere and remain small spots. We should know more in 24 hours or so.
Now, I like pink polka dots as much as the next gal, but not on my 3 year old! I guess it's much better for her to get it out of the way now. (I had chicken pox at 14 and was REALLY ill.. there was no place on my body where you could see my skin. I was covered!) The only thing I worry about is the potential for a respiratory infection secondary to the virus she has. So far, so good. No coughing or wheezing. And she's up to date on all of her vaccinations, so if she has the measles or the chicken pox, I'm told it would be a less severe case.
So today, it's Nick Jr., orange juice, jammies, and LOTS of cuddling.
Moms - have your vaccinated kids come down with the measles or chicken pox? Any suggestions or advice?
Ordinarily, I'd blog on Fridays about something multi-media.. and given the really interesting things that came out of the Consumer Electronics Show, I had a whole bunch I wanted to blog about today. HOWEVER, DD woke up yesterday with a few 'pimples' on her back,tummy, and cheeks. She'd been running a fever for 3 days and now a rash. I was hoping it was just a febrile rash (rash due to fever). But today, she woke up with 3 times as many spots - EVERYWHERE! I'm thinking we either have a case of the measles or the chicken pox. If it is chicken pox, the spots should get bigger and become blisters. If it's measles, they'll spread out everywhere and remain small spots. We should know more in 24 hours or so.Now, I like pink polka dots as much as the next gal, but not on my 3 year old! I guess it's much better for her to get it out of the way now. (I had chicken pox at 14 and was REALLY ill.. there was no place on my body where you could see my skin. I was covered!) The only thing I worry about is the potential for a respiratory infection secondary to the virus she has. So far, so good. No coughing or wheezing. And she's up to date on all of her vaccinations, so if she has the measles or the chicken pox, I'm told it would be a less severe case.So today, it's Nick Jr., orange juice, jammies, and LOTS of cuddling.
Moms - have your vaccinated kids come down with the measles or chicken pox? Any suggestions or advice?
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Family Day Thursday: Sneak Peak at Valentine's Day Crafts
***Don't forget to enter this month's giveaway: Yarnball Earrings from Polished Two. Check it out here!
Feeling overwhelmed by the Christmas holiday season? Feeling underwhelmed at the thoughts of crafting alot of items for Valentine's Day? Well, don't! Here's a snipet of fun and pressure-free crafts to enjoy during the Valentine's Day season. You can do so much more than making Valentines! These crafts are simple and family friendly.
Kaboose, the mecca of family fun crafts, has come up with this cute Valentine's Day craft: salt dough hearts and pins. What a cute way to add to a homemade Valentine for your child's teacher. Another way to enjoy these would be to hot glue gun some glue on the backs and apply magnets! I love the idea of conversation heart magnets on the fridge!
Family Fun Magazine has a cute idea for all of you moms of little girls: Friendship Rings! What little girl wouldn't love to design and decorate her own Valentine's Day friendship rings? All you need is some craft foam, pipe cleaner, faux gems, and craft glue! How cute!
Better Homes and Gardens has a craft for your tweens and older: An Etched Glass Valentine's Day Frame! You can display your favorite picture, Valentine, or even a vintage valentine. There's nothing too complicated about this project and your teenaged daughter will love making this cute frame!
Knitting on the Net offers up a cute Heart Baby Blanket (can be lengthened and used as a lapghan). If you can knit and purl, this fun project wil work up in no time. They show it here in blue, but I'd knit it in a nice red or pink!
All Free Crafts offers up this cute idea - Styrofoam 'Tin' Hearts Ornies! These hearts are made completely of styrofoam and alot of embellishment. Loving rustic, primitive, or shabby looking things myself, I'd probably use the pewter rather than the silver faux finish and embellish with rafia and dried flowers. You can let your imagination soar! It'd also be cute to cover in petwer, let dry and then dry brush white over top, allowing the pewter to show through in areas. Ah, the possibilities!
Craft Bits has a cute gift idea: Jar of Hugs and Kisses! Basically, this is a salt dough recipe for forming Xs & Os. Then you pop them into a decorated jar and give as a gift. I think using various shades of pink and red and brushing them with ModPodge (everything is better with Mod Podge) and super-fine glitter would add some contrast and definition to your project!
And last, but certainly NOT least, I must direct you to Melinda of Bloggin' It From the 'Burbs, who has the cutest heart-shaped cake balls recipe/tutorial! These look so gorgeous and I'm sure are just as yummy! Give 'em a peak and tell her, KnitPurlGurl sent ya!
I know some of you are incredibly talented crafters and bloggers or know of some talented crafters who blog.. which Valentine's Day crafts have you seen in the blogosphere that you can't wait to dive into? Don't be stingy! Give us the 411!
Feeling overwhelmed by the Christmas holiday season? Feeling underwhelmed at the thoughts of crafting alot of items for Valentine's Day? Well, don't! Here's a snipet of fun and pressure-free crafts to enjoy during the Valentine's Day season. You can do so much more than making Valentines! These crafts are simple and family friendly.
Kaboose, the mecca of family fun crafts, has come up with this cute Valentine's Day craft: salt dough hearts and pins. What a cute way to add to a homemade Valentine for your child's teacher. Another way to enjoy these would be to hot glue gun some glue on the backs and apply magnets! I love the idea of conversation heart magnets on the fridge!
Family Fun Magazine has a cute idea for all of you moms of little girls: Friendship Rings! What little girl wouldn't love to design and decorate her own Valentine's Day friendship rings? All you need is some craft foam, pipe cleaner, faux gems, and craft glue! How cute!
Better Homes and Gardens has a craft for your tweens and older: An Etched Glass Valentine's Day Frame! You can display your favorite picture, Valentine, or even a vintage valentine. There's nothing too complicated about this project and your teenaged daughter will love making this cute frame!
Knitting on the Net offers up a cute Heart Baby Blanket (can be lengthened and used as a lapghan). If you can knit and purl, this fun project wil work up in no time. They show it here in blue, but I'd knit it in a nice red or pink!
All Free Crafts offers up this cute idea - Styrofoam 'Tin' Hearts Ornies! These hearts are made completely of styrofoam and alot of embellishment. Loving rustic, primitive, or shabby looking things myself, I'd probably use the pewter rather than the silver faux finish and embellish with rafia and dried flowers. You can let your imagination soar! It'd also be cute to cover in petwer, let dry and then dry brush white over top, allowing the pewter to show through in areas. Ah, the possibilities!
Craft Bits has a cute gift idea: Jar of Hugs and Kisses! Basically, this is a salt dough recipe for forming Xs & Os. Then you pop them into a decorated jar and give as a gift. I think using various shades of pink and red and brushing them with ModPodge (everything is better with Mod Podge) and super-fine glitter would add some contrast and definition to your project!
And last, but certainly NOT least, I must direct you to Melinda of Bloggin' It From the 'Burbs, who has the cutest heart-shaped cake balls recipe/tutorial! These look so gorgeous and I'm sure are just as yummy! Give 'em a peak and tell her, KnitPurlGurl sent ya!
I know some of you are incredibly talented crafters and bloggers or know of some talented crafters who blog.. which Valentine's Day crafts have you seen in the blogosphere that you can't wait to dive into? Don't be stingy! Give us the 411!
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Wild Card Wednesday: Polished Two Giveaway
** This contest is now CLOSED. Thanks to everyone who has entered. Please check back on Saturday, Jan. 31st to see who has won!!**
The talented Tracy, owner and designer of Polished Two, has graciously agreed to sponsor a giveaway on Mommatudes! She is going to give away these gorgeous yarnball earrings!! (I own a pair and love-love-love them!)
Here are the details of the giveaway:
Good luck and spread the word!!
Do you own a business or know someone who does? Why not sponsor a giveaway on Mommatudes and drive traffic to your site? Email me for details!
Check out Bloggy Giveaways Quarterly Carnival for more great giveaways. Click the button below:
The talented Tracy, owner and designer of Polished Two, has graciously agreed to sponsor a giveaway on Mommatudes! She is going to give away these gorgeous yarnball earrings!! (I own a pair and love-love-love them!)Here are the details of the giveaway:
- You must visit the Polished Two Etsy Shop and browse all of her yummy jewelry. Pick your fave piece and come back to mommatudes to post which piece is your fave. If your post shows as 'anonymous' or doesn't have your contact info and you wish to be entered, please leave contact information in your post. Otherwise you'll be skipped over.
- The contest begins today and ends on Wednesday, January 28th. The winner will be picked by a random number generator.
- The winner will be announced on Mommatudes on Saturday, January 31st.
- Polished Two will mail the winner the yarnball earrings shortly after the winner is announced!
- One entry per person please.
Good luck and spread the word!!
Do you own a business or know someone who does? Why not sponsor a giveaway on Mommatudes and drive traffic to your site? Email me for details!
Check out Bloggy Giveaways Quarterly Carnival for more great giveaways. Click the button below:
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Double Take Tuesday: A Call for Nifty Sites
I am ALWAYS discovering new websites and especially BLOGS that are so incredible, I wonder why I never knew about them before. Well, this week, instead of reviewing another site/blog that I know about, I'm putting a call out for my readers to post their fave websites or blogs! In your post, include a brief description of the site/blog and why you like it so much as well as the address. I can't wait to see what y'all come up with!
What kinds of websites/blog do you search for? Do you look for craft sites? Mommy blogs? Online stores?
Monday, January 12, 2009
Moma 'Tude Monday - Resolutions
Okay - so how many of you make New Year's Resolutions? Each year, I resolve that I will reduce the size of my buttocks sufficiently to fit into non-mom jeans. And each year, I join Weight Watchers and lose weight until I drop a size (I need to drop 4 sizes, mind you!) and then something peculiar happens - resolution amnesia. Like clockwork, I tell you.
The new year rings in hope and promise for a new chance; a renewal. But what 'they' don't tell you is that it also seems to ring in self-loathing, self-depricating behavior, and cheesecake. Okay, I just threw in cheesecake because my new year just can't happen with out it, frankly. Every year we celebrate the chance to start anew by finding fault in all we do and everything we are.
Do I need to lose weight? Duh. That's an understatement. But do I need to hate myself if I never lose the weight? No way. This is me. For better or for worse. In cute jeans or mom jeans. Lumpy and bumpy..
So this year, I resolve to like myself more. -To accept myself for who I am. I'd like to lose weight and to be healthier this year, but I'm not going to kill myself to do it and hate myself if I don't fit into a size 6.I also resolve to be the best person I can be.. not the best on the outside, but on the inside.
What are your New Year's Resolutions?
Friday, January 9, 2009
Multi-Media Friday: Knitting & Crochet Online Resources
For those who aren't aware of my alter-ego: KnitPurlGurl - you should know that I'm an avid knitter and also enjoy crochet and tunisian crochet as well as broomstick lace. I'm just learning crochet and all it has to offer and so far I really enjoy it. But my true passion is knitting. Of course, I'll take any excuse to 
Ravelry is the ultimate community for knitters, crocheters, fiber artists, spinners, and weavers. Not only does it provide a plethora of forums and groups to belong to and post on, it allows you to keep a project, needle, pattern, book, and yarn notebook in which to catalog all of your past, present,and future projects, stashed yarn, available needle sizes in your collection, a directory of the patterns you've purchased or downloaded free, and a catalog of your book library. You can purchase patterns available on Ravelry via some terrific designers. There are literally thousands of FREE patterns offered. You can browse the patterns by yarn, project type, specific pattern name, or designer. You can even swap yarn in your stash with other Ravelers. To join Ravelry is free, but you must sign up and wait for your invite to arrive in email (the hardest part) which could take about 4 days or so. Personally, I use all parts of Ravelry. I love cataloging my yarn stash so that I can pack my yarn away and look to my online catalog to see what yarn I have available for a particular project. I've gotten oodles of free patterns from Ravelry and purchased a couple of patterns. I moderate a group, Moving Beyond Rectangles, for newbie knitters on Ravelry and belong to several groups. It's a GREAT all around resource!
Planet Purl is the Knitter's Guide to the Galaxy! It's similar to Ravelry. It offers knitting patterns, a shop, forums, knit alongs, stash swap, and travel guides. You can keep an album and photos of projects as well as start a knitter's blog. Joining is free and practically instantaneous. They provide designer and product spotlights and connect you with other knitters around the globe.Knitting Help is a terrific community and knitting resource. The community offers something for both the knitter and crocheter as well as a chat room. This community is forum driven and is really a supportive and wonderful community of knitters. The really awesome aspect of this knitting community is that Amy (co-founder) has uploaded knitting how-to videos for just about every technique a new knitter needs to learn. And not only has she uploaded them, but is providing them free and in both the English and Continental methods! She also provides a glossary of knitting terms and a shop. The community members here are loyal and tight-knit (hee-hee). Joining is free and participating in the forums is encouraged!
Crochet Cabana is a resource for crocheters that offers crochet tutorials, patterns, specialty crochet, links to all things crochet, and charity crochet. I've found it particularly useful as a newbie crocheter.
NexStitch is an awesome crochet resource site! Chalk full of crochet video tutorials, patterns, and links, this site has something for the newbie crocheter as well as the experienced crocheter. The videos are especially helpful and the patterns easy to understand.The Art of Crochet by Teresa offers lots of patterns and some terrific free video tutorials on crochet. If you've got an itch to begin crochet and don't know where to start, give her blog a try. It's a great resource!
This is just the tip of the iceberg! There are heaps of knitting and crochet communities and resources out there. So don't be afraid to pick up the needles or hook - with so many resources available, you'll be creating in no time!
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Lemonade Award
The lovely Ms. Melanie AKA The Reluctant Housewife has bestowed this refreshing award upon my blog! I want to say a big THANKS to her for her kind words on her blog and this cutey-patootey award! I will now pass it along to some deserving bloggers!
My Chihuahua Bites - a Sassy SITSta! Love her blog to pieces! She's fashionable and witty; honest and crafty and always provides some great product reviews!
Pink Vanilla Cupcakes - A baker and mom who is funny, human, and crafty!
Sweet Digi Scraps - a mere youngster - but AWESOME digital scrap designer and all around crafty chica! I'm addicted to her downloads!
Bloggin' It From the 'Burbs - A terrific blogger, mom, and blog-buddy!
Dandelion Wishes - An all around family gal and cool blogger! Also a great blog-buddy!
I'd like to pick everyone who has every left a comment, but then I won't have anyone left to give the next award to! I think 5 is a good number. I'll have to say that I am smitten with so many blogs right now. There are some pretty terrific and wonderful bloggers out there. I'm just happy I get to read their blogs every day!
Family Day Thursday: Getting to Know Asperger's Syndrome Children
Chances are, someone in your family interacts with people on the Autism Spectrum daily. And as Asperger's Syndrome is becoming increasingly diagnosed - chances are your children interact with an Aspie at school. As the mother of a moderate Asperger's Syndrome child, it is important for me to reach out to parents of typical children to educate them about Asperger's Syndrome. Oftentimes, the 'weird' kid or 'awkward' kid in a group of kids is somewhere on the Autism spectrum. Alot of these kiddos are undiagnosed as they are not seen as disabled, but rather strange or a behavior problem. For those that are diagnosed, there is no cure and a hefty label that will follow them for the rest of their lives. The positive being that they come to understand their disorder and can seek medical and behavioral therapies to help them to adjust to a typical world.
My son is a sweet, smart little guy. Like alot of Aspie kids, he suffers from Asperger's Syndrome, ADHD, anxiety, depression, OCD, and a total lack of self-esteem. He is constantly bullied by his peers. -And not just physical bullying, but psychological bullying. They tease and torment him. They laugh at him and because he is so naive, get him to do inapporpriate things in the name of 'friendship.' So I'd like to take the time to appeal to all of the parents out there to talk with their kids about those 'different' kids in their class. They are not harmful kids. They are not bad kids. They are kids that want friends so badly, but just don't know how. They may act differently, but are good kiddos. I have found that there are a growing number of parents who decidedly do not teach tolerance to their children. I've heard other parents commenting to each other about how 'weird' my son is and how they don't want their son/daughter to play with him. You have no idea how hurtful that is to parents like myself who sit with their crying child, trying to explain that there is nothing wrong with them.
To the parents out there teaching tolerance to their children: God Bless you!!!! We are such a diverse people and it takes all kinds to make the world go around. Teaching our children to reach out to others and to stand up for those who cannot stand up for themselves is important.
Here is a synopsis of Asperger's Syndrome provided by OASIS:
Individuals with AS can exhibit a variety of characteristics and the disorder can range from mild to severe. Persons with AS show marked deficiencies in social skills, have difficulties with transitions or changes and prefer sameness. They often have obsessive routines and may be preoccupied with a particular subject of interest. They have a great deal of difficulty reading nonverbal cues (body language) and very often the individual with AS has difficulty determining proper body space. Often overly sensitive to sounds, tastes, smells, and sights, the person with AS may prefer soft clothing, certain foods, and be bothered by sounds or lights no one else seems to hear or see. It's important to remember that the person with AS perceives the world very differently. Therefore, many behaviors that seem odd or unusual are due to those neurological differences and not the result of intentional rudeness or bad behavior, and most certainly not the result of "improper parenting".
By definition, those with AS have a normal IQ and many individuals (although not all), exhibit exceptional skill or talent in a specific area. Because of their high degree of functionality and their naiveté, those with AS are often viewed as eccentric or odd and can easily become victims of teasing and bullying. While language development seems, on the surface, normal, individuals with AS often have deficits in pragmatics and prosody. Vocabularies may be extraordinarily rich and some children sound like "little professors." However, persons with AS can be extremely literal and have difficulty using language in a social context.
By definition, those with AS have a normal IQ and many individuals (although not all), exhibit exceptional skill or talent in a specific area. Because of their high degree of functionality and their naiveté, those with AS are often viewed as eccentric or odd and can easily become victims of teasing and bullying. While language development seems, on the surface, normal, individuals with AS often have deficits in pragmatics and prosody. Vocabularies may be extraordinarily rich and some children sound like "little professors." However, persons with AS can be extremely literal and have difficulty using language in a social context.
To learn more about Asperger's Syndrome or Autism Spectrum Disorders, please visit these websites:
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