Maddie & Mommy

How to Make Monster Eyes

2010-10-09T15:30:00.000-04:00

Get at least 5 pieces of black poster board for two average windows. Measure twice, cut once! Measure the size of your windows, we were just in luck and the poster board fit top to bottom in each pane, but not the width. We had to cut the 5th poster board to make up the difference for each of the 4 "panes."

Cut a large triangle out of two of the four poster boards.
Use a plate or something of the like for a template and cut black circles out of the piece that you've cut from the triangle as pictured.

Tape the eyeball to the poster board making sure that the bottom of the circle is even with the bottom of the poster board.

Use yellow and orange tissue paper to cover the cut out triangle (I put yellow down first, then orange behind it to make it a dark yellow).

Tape into windows and have a happy Halloween!

Look for crazy eyes coming soon!

Back to School Sale

2010-07-31T10:11:00.001-04:00

The Homefront Team on Etsy is doing a Back to School sale in August. Each shop that is participating has their own sale, Maddie & ME is having free shipping the entire month of August for any purchase over $30.00! Go to Etsy and search *homefrontbts* to see all the great shops having sales. Support the military buy from the Homefront!

2010-07-28T10:17:00.000-04:00

I thought about how much I cherish the members of the Homefront Team. I wanted to show them just as I see them; beautiful, talented, creative, hard working, supportive, sweet, funny, quirky, caring, and loving. Above all they love their families and they love their country. Thank you for being the Homefront Team with me.
-Maddie & ME
Featured in Order: CharmingLadies3, CreationsAnew, LilacAve, TwinkleLight, TwoSeasideBabies, AStonesThrow, AutumnLetters, MonsterBugBlankets, SugarLumpsDesign, JrzyGirlPhotography, MrsDStahl, Mommieof4Munchkins, SygnetCreations, TheModMenagerie, HomemadeZen, and WonderousStrange

Children's Book Review

2010-07-27T10:00:00.003-04:00

"Different Like Coco"
by Elizabeth Matthews

This is a definite favorite. We've enjoyed this book enough to have checked it out no less than 3 times in the past few months. This is a kids version of a genuine biography.
Taken from the book jacket:
"Gabrielle 'Coco' Chanel was always different. She was poor, skinny, and orphaned, yet she held stubbornly to the belief that she was just as good as any of the wealthier, well-bred girls of Paris. ... With a talent for sewing and creative mind, Coco began inventing clothing that suited her (and her pocketbook). A new generation of independent working women fell in love with the comfort, simplicity, practicality, and freedom they found in Coco's innovative clothes."

Coco is my inspiration and role model. I picked up this book when my daughter was too young to enjoy what it was really about. Now we love to read it over and over and both identify with it. She loves to point out that Coco worn her scissors on a long string of pearls "just like you do mommy!" I will eventually have to tell my little one that Coco was the original on that idea. We also identify with Coco being skinny as my little girl is very thin and no matter what, there are some things that just don't and won't fit her no matter how we try!

All in all this is a wonderful book that we both love for our own reasons. I recommend it to anyone who has a little girly girl - not the best for boys or tomboys - but lovely if your daughter aspires to be a fashion designer (or even if you are the aspiring fashion designer). This book is a biography and so has a time line of Coco's life and works and a Bibliography. I'd say it would be a great choice for a elementary age girl having to do a book report!

"Elizabeth Matthews makes her chic picture-book debut with this lovely and inspiring look at a woman who was so much more than the legendary inventor of 'the little black dress.' She was and is a role model for people everywhere who dare to embrace their uniqueness and to dream big." Excerpt from Jacket

Customer Appreciation Pictures

2010-07-26T10:00:00.002-04:00

These photos bring a new meaning to "Customer Appreciation Pictures" because once you view these pictures you'll see why I am so appreciative of my customer for sending them. Without further ado here are the photos I received that left me speechless.

The feedback she left me? Oh my I was blushing!

"I am so thrilled with this purchase, I do not know where to begin! After searching high and low in retail stores and on the internet for sweet and simple, cotton nightgowns, I purchased two good night princess nightgowns for my toddler and a matching bubble for her baby sister. Kristina was wonderful to work with. Each item was custom made to each of my daughter's measurements."

"When the pieces arrived and I tried them on my daughters, I was amazed by the craftsmanship. The fit was beautiful and the quality was excellent. Kristina is a very talented designer and seamstress. I could easy convince my family and friends that I bought these pieces at a high-end children's boutique. In fact, I think they are nicer than many higher priced items that I saw in local boutiques. The value for the money is really unbelievable! Turn-around time was excellent, considering the pieces were custom made. They were well worth the short wait!"

"I look forward to being a long-time customer of Maddie & Me. Thank you so much!"

skirts, skirts and more skirts

2010-07-24T14:05:00.006-04:00

I love the length!!!!!!!!!!!! Most of her skirts were getting so short! :) And most today are made shorter, too. They are GORGEOUS! I am in total awe!!!!! Plus--she'll get to wear it probably into next yr!!!!

I completely adore it! The material was superior quality, the stitching perfect, and most of all my daughter loved it so much she had to wear it the next day! Thanks...we'll be back!

Oh --got the skirts this afternoon-- They are AWESOME!!!!!! I was pinging--hubs thought I was nuts! They are very well made!!!!!!!! Love em!

I am in awe of your skirts--you do a very, very good job on them! I could see your whole shop being full of them!

My daughter adores these skirts!!! And I love them because they aren't mini skirts! Great lightweight/quality fabrics that wash well.

Too cute! My niece is going to look adorable in it! Thank You!

Very cute! Just as pictured. These will look cute for summer with a little tank top! I'm glad I got 3 of them!

Coming Soon!

2010-07-17T10:28:00.008-04:00

Coming soon! Maddie & ME, Children's Handcrafted Couture is introducing a line of Jersey Knit skirt sets. Comfortable and fun, easy to care for
and great for back to school.
Here is a sample of the style and look for more coming soon!

Believe in the Dream

2010-07-15T09:11:00.006-04:00

This too is from my new daily meditation book, Hours of Power, My Daily Book of Motivation and Inspiration by Robert H. Schuller.

"Success begins once we start to believe in the beautiful dream that God sends us. How marvelous that our response was positive and not negative. How remarkable that the simple dream was not dismissed offhandedly as an impossibility, when in fact the moment was a meeting of a human mind with the dream of the Creator - God!"

"Blessed are those whose dreams are shaped by their hopes, not by their hurts."

Photograph graciously provided by "Creations Anew" at www.CreationsAnew.etsy.com

You Can Begin With Nothing

2010-07-13T21:38:00.004-04:00

"Dreams cost nothing, Do you have a dream? Are you facing money problems? Remember this: all great projects begin with a dream. Projects can be started without a single cent! The most valuable things in life are free. An idea, an hour in the early morning, a friend who encourages, the freedom to sell your idea, an article in the newspaper. All of these are free! So is talk. If you have a need-filling, God-glorifying, humanity-inspiring, imaginative idea, share it with trusting Possibility Thinkers and you will at least give the dream a chance to come alive. Truly, the most valuable product in the world is an idea. Good ideas magnetically attract support from unexpected sources."

This was my morning reading for July 12. Cool huh? Yeah, I think I'll keep reading this book. Thanks Mom and Dad for giving it to me.

My first flier and logo - yes I designed the logo using MS Paint.

New Introduction

2010-07-12T21:40:00.005-04:00

Maddie & ME is introducing a new product that will branch all seasons and all designs. This accessory is the most wonderfully simple hair adornment that spices up any outfit. It can work for any girl from infant to adult just select the right size and color for your outfit and voila an instant accessory.

Sneek Peak

2010-07-10T15:40:00.005-04:00

Here is a peak at some of the back to school / early fall offerings from Maddie & ME.
More to come at www.1MaddieAndMe.etsy.com.

How to ... a step by step guide to approaching a retail shop

2010-07-08T11:30:00.001-04:00

This is a re-up of a previous blog post. I decided to do this not because I can't do it again with fresh pictures, but because the comments in this original post were also very informative.

OK this is for any handmade product e-commerce shop owners. I've been asked to do a blog post on how to approach a shop to have them carry your line. Having run a retail shop (my mom's) for over 5 years, and successfully gotten my items in several local stores is the ONLY expertise I have. I don't really know any other way to do this except step by step, so that's what I'm going to do.

1) SCOPE IT OUT - Visit said shop, see if they carry similar items, whats the price range, are they already full of the items you want to sell there?
2) PLANT A SEED - If the shop looks like something that would be a good place to sell your items, briefly mention to the person at the counter about your items, leave a business card.
3) BUY SOMETHING - Make a purchase in that shop, if you won't buy something why would they sell your items?

The First Three Can Be Done In One Visit!

4) STAY VISIBLE - Come back for a second visit within a week when the owner is there (call ahead). Usually in any small shop the owner is the ONLY decision maker, any one else just passes the info along with their opinions and recommendations.
5) SHOW YOUR PRODUCT - Bring something you make as a gift for the owner. If you deal with children's products OR if the owner has kids (many times they kids would be at the shop with them) be sure to bring a little something for the kids and don't forget to have one for each kid to prevent sibling arguments.
6) BE POLITE - Ask the owner if NOW is a good time to discuss the possibility of them carrying your line. If they say they are covered up -Southern term for really busy, they ask WHEN is a good time. Don't leave without a time scheduled to come back.
7) BE PROFESSIONAL - If scheduled, be sure to call one day ahead to confirm - its good business, they'll know you're serious AND you'll know they'll be there and not blow you off.
8) BE READY - Come back with items in hand ready to leave there for a trial basis.

-Most consignments in my area are on a 70/30 basis so be prepared for that and don't expect them to sell your items for you at 90/10. They have overhead, rent, advertising, etc. to pay and are doing all that for you if your items are in their shop.
-If they ask you to keep up with your inventory be sure to have all items recorded before you bring them in. Most shops have computerized inventory, but not all so be ready for that as well.
- Be prepared to rotate inventory, if items sit too long people will over look them. If the shop keep allows it, ask if you can come in at least once a month and move your items around. Some prefer to do it themselves, others will appreciate the help and outside perspective that you'll offer.
-Promote the shops you work with, you'll all make money if you work together and promote each other. Word of mouth is still the strongest advertising I know of. People go places that others recommend.
-NEVER offer to sell straight off your site or circumvent the shop to any of their customers. If someone wants a special order it should still go through the shop and they should still get their cut. WHY would they continue to carry your items if you're going to cut them out? I've seen this happen and I personally find it sad and very unprofessional. If I meet a customer as a result of a particular shop, then the sale goes to that shop REGARDLESS, its just good business.
-Take care of your brick and mortar stores and they'll promote your items more, direct customers to your product and in short take care of you.

Remember it might take a month to get your first sale in a brick and mortar shop just as online. Don't give up, work with them, be available and be flexible. GOOD LUCK!

*** Please be sure to read the comments section of this post. There is a bit of dialog in there that is important as well to the topic ***

Maddie's Computer Art

2010-07-06T12:10:00.003-04:00

Here is a picture that Maddie did on the computer
with the mouse and "Paint" program!

Just for fun I thought I'd share it, when she has actual crayons she finds her art much easier to do what she wants. I thought this was pretty good for using the computer program.

A Pictoral Blog

2010-07-05T17:38:00.005-04:00

Here are some fun, beautiful, creative, cool and sweet

listings from my Homefront Team mates.

Feature - Baghdadbum

2010-06-30T13:56:00.008-04:00

This week's feature is on another of my Homefront Team members. His shop is called Baghdadbum and is full of lovely items to spoil any woman, which seems to be his goal. He has some fabulous bath teas like this one made for muscle relaxing - something this seamstress needs after a long day working at the sewing machines. He also has some great candles, gift baskets and even a bit of jewelry. A little something for everyone at Baghdadbum's Etsy shop. So without further ado here is my interview with Joe of Baghdadbum

What is your favorite item you've ever made?

Ok the favorite item I ever made? My daughter :) She is a blast and is such a great kid. I couldnt ask for anything better. But as for with my hands it would be the first necklace I made for my wife. It was wooden beaded with silver accents and she wears it still. It is what motivated me to open an online shop.

What keeps you going when your creativity wanes?

Creativity waning? Starbucks. But if that doesn't work I like to look to a notebook I keep nearby. Whenever I dream or think of something I try to and at least write some short details about it. That way if I lose my bearing I can look back on that book for inspiration. Although only 2 things have ever come from it.

If you could do anything what would it be?

If I could do anything. Well I already am. I served in the Us Army for 11 years as a Field Artillery crew chief. Now I have the opportunity to be a stay at home dad, husband 24/7 and be able to make things I enjoy with my hands. I think any soldier would agree that coming home after a deployment, field exercise or just being on leave is the best feeling in the world. Well I get that all the time now.

Who gave you the best advice and what was it?

The best advice I ever received was before our push into Baghdad in 2003, My 1st sergeant told all of the Non commissioned officers that the following hours would be the toughest thing we would ever face in our lives. To strive to bring all of our soldiers back from the mission safe, and that if we made it through then just about anything else that we faced would seem simple in comparison.
So even though I stress from time to time. I always remember that conversation and it brings me back to the here and now.

If you could have super powers, what would you have?

As for super powers, I'm not really sure I want any. For example Superman is super and all, but that brings with it responsibilities like saving Lois Lane, and fighting with Lex Luther. Or Batman, attempting to avenge his family, but all of the sudden all of these super villains show up. He has to work out of a cave and save the city all the time.
So what would happen if I had super powers? I think some villain would pop up somehow always wanting to fight, The city would look to me to save everything from a cat in a tree to some sort of disaster that only happens when a super-hero is in town. So to keep my city safe and quiet and keep my schedule free of villain fighting and city saving I would forgo any super power at present. Besides what would I be, Stay at home, middle-aged, slight bald-spot average dad :)And one last thing, he is having a give away contest in his Etsy shop. Here is the information to enter, do it quick before July 2!

I just LOVE felted items

2010-06-29T09:35:00.007-04:00

I am a seamstress and am completely fascinated by the art of making felted items. So here is a quick pictorial blog of some of the fun things I've found (click on the pic for link to purchase). Granted most of them are food, but I just am amazed at how realistic these look. I wish I'd discovered this kind of kid friendly toy when mine was young enough to want to play pretend with her "kitchen."

Big Government Survival Kit

2010-06-28T16:47:00.012-04:00

I found this through a link on face book and just had to share it. Funny stuff for sure. Please note these are their pictures and you can click on either one to get a link to the Big Government Survival Kit site to purchase one of your very own!

Fried Green Tomatoes

2010-06-26T13:19:00.004-04:00

Not a Southerner that is living in the South? Need to impress someone with your ability to cook Southern Food? Try this recipe, its easy, tasty and will impress the locals and transplants alike!

First thing is first, the tomatoes must be green! This means they will be small because green tomatoes are not yet ripe therefore not grown up to their fullest size. You'll need to figure no more than 3 - 4 slices out of each tomato, so gauge your purchase accordingly.

Notice the flaws in my tomatoes?

Yup, I like the ones that DON'T look perfect. The fruits and vegetables that look too perfect have little flavor in my opinion. I purchased these at the local Farmer's Market this morning. Don't get any that have any signs of ripening (yellow, orange or reddish skin), they just wont taste as good.

Heat oil in a skillet (I always use cast iron to fry in) about 1" deep. The egg wash I use is 2 eggs, about 1 Tbsp. of milk and salt (I always salt my egg out of superstition). The batter I use is White Lily White Flour, King Arthur Whole Wheat Flour (sometimes I'll use Jiffy Mix Cornbread mix instead of corn meal, but I skipped this all together tonight and it didn't seem to make a difference) and some seasonings - I used a basic chicken seasoning tonight. So set your assembly line up like this...

I'm working from Right to left as that's the space allowance in my kitchen. The skillet is on the far left just out of the picture. So Tomato, egg wash, flour, skillet. Repeat until the skillet is full, but do not let them touch if you can help it.

Last bit of info, if you'll put a cake cooling rack on your plate between the plate and paper towel (that you'll have to drain the oil off of the tomatoes) you will drain better and have less oil and grease in your meal. This works for bacon and anything else that you might drain on a paper towel and keeps things ever so slightly on the healthier side.

And here is the finished product. About 21 - 26
Fried Green Tomatoes

And I don't know if this is Southern or just the way we got the kiddo to eat these, but they aren't too bad with katsup either...! ENJOY

Congrats!

2010-06-25T11:07:00.006-04:00

Congratulations to two of my Etsy Homefront team mates
for making it into the Etsy finds!

LilacAve for her
Ginger Peach Tea Lights

AND TO

SygnetCreations for her
Family Travel Neck Pillow Set.

Way to go ladies!

The Etsy Homefront Team is made up of over 200 shops, all owned by spouses and significant others of members of the U.S. uniformed services. We are male and female, of all ages and several different nationalities and are located, quite literally, worldwide!

Our one common thread is that we are personally involved in supporting our countries on a day-in, day-out basis. Without prejudice, or regard for religion, race, nationality or political views, we keep the homefires burning and our families together, no matter how far apart we are.

Check out our blog at: http://www.homefrontartistryteam.blogspot.com

"Off-the-Wall Art Strip"

2010-06-25T08:25:00.004-04:00

First let me say that this is NOT my idea. I found this on "FamilyFun.com" via face book. It's says it is for a Toddler, but I think my 1st grader would live it just as much although slightly higher on the wall. I wanted to share it with you all, my readers since most of you are moms or have kids in your life one way or another. Please check FamilyFun.com for more great recipes, printables, 4th of July and many more ideas on things to do to keep the kids busy this summer.

Picture borrowed from FamilyFun.com

"The family refrigerator is happy to moonlight as an art gallery, but your in-house studio may be churning out more work than a couple of magnets can hold. Our kid-level display uses Velcro to make the most of a sticky situation: a small piece stuck to the back of the artwork means that it can be hung on and taken down from the Velcro-covered strip by the artist himself -- perhaps with a little help from Mom.

Materials

5-foot length of wood molding
Tools and mounting hardware (we used screws)

5-foot strip of self-adhesive Velcro tape
Packing tape

Instructions

Mount the molding on the wall at your child's height. Adhere one side of the Velcro tape to the molding, positioning the Velcro so it covers the screws.
Next, apply a strip of packing tape to the back of each piece of artwork and top it with a 3-inch strip cut from the other side of the Velcro tape. (This allows you to remove the Velcro without tearing the paper.)
For added sturdiness and decoration, we affixed our artwork to larger pieces of card stock before hanging them. When your artist decides to take down his work, store it in a clean pizza box."

Wishes and Dreams!

2010-06-23T13:39:00.002-04:00

Is there really anything more to say? This is NOT where I am, this is a picture I took last year at my absolutely favorite beach resort . This is where I wish I could be and where I dream about going again soon.

New item - Notebook Tote

2010-06-22T09:41:00.010-04:00

I'm not sure if this is going to be something I do a lot of or just once in a while. At my mother's request I made a laptop carry bag for her notebook. There is a Velcro pouch going across the whole length of the front for cord storage or what ever else might need to be tucked away. This is a trial run and will continue to be worked on and improved upon. I've got one of the same notebooks (in fact that is mine in the picture) so expect at least a few more of these to show up. I hope to make matching check book cover, business card holder, and mom would like a Passport Cover as well. We should have fun with this and after all Maddie & ME is suppose to be a little about the items for the mom as well as the child. Hence the "ME" in the name. To see more pictures please check out www. facebook.com/MaddieAndMe the pictures will be uploaded soon.

Feature

2010-06-18T19:17:00.017-04:00

This feature is an absolute pleasure for me to do. Deb of LilacAve is one of my favorite vendors on etsy and over the past few years I've come to rely on her to keep my home smelling good. But I first met her when she was making some beautiful custom cards like this one. From the card shop she moved on to open LilacAve. She has a knack for recycling all sorts or containers (including shipping boxes) and I have more than one of her recycled candle tins. My personal favorite is her melting tarts though. She makes some wonderful soy tarts that I don't think I could live without. Most recently she has moved on to add some bath and body items which I can't wait to start trying. So without further ado, here is the interview with Deb - of Lilac Ave!

What is your favorite item you've ever made?

That's hard... I have a bit of a wandering eye when it comes to my items. I think I am totally in love with one on one day, and then become infatuated with another the following day. I DO have a favorite scent...Ginger Peach all the way. But then there is also Blueberry Cobbler, Gardenia, Monkey Farts, Pumpkin Cheesecake...oh my ;)

What keeps you going when your creativity wanes?

I think when creativity wanes, it's a sign you need to take a break or do something new. I usually take a day or two to concentrate on family, and taking care of myself.

How do you balance family duties and your shop?

Normally during the school year it is quite a bit easier. I have found this to be much more of a challenge during the summer. I WANT to get the kids out and explore, but I also need to work. I'm lucky though that they are older (7 and 8) so they don't really WANT my attention all the time, but I have to admit my hours have been cut back quite a bit.

If you could do anything what would it be?

Career-wise- I'd LOVE to open a craft consignment shop. The type of place where Crafters rent out spaces, and have a "mini-store" to sell their items.
Life-wise- I'd love to take a European trip with my husband and kids. I am dying to go to France.

Who gave you the best advice and what was it?

Wow, I've gotten great bits of advice from so many people. I think all of it builds you as a person. I have to say, this quote is what keeps me motivated to never give up on my business:
"Success seems to be largely a matter of hanging on after others have let go." ~William Feather
I think it is quite the statement in persistence and hard work.

If you could have super powers, what would you have?

Endless energy!
So please take some time to visit LilacAve and see all the wonderful things she has to sell. You can check her items out on facebook, 1000Markets, etsy or her blog. Great gifts for your family and friends and even for yourself ... and tell her I sent ya!

Feature Coming Soon

2010-06-18T11:31:00.006-04:00

I will start doing a weekly feature which will include a short interview and hopefully some fun and funny stuff to read. Until then, please enjoy a few pictures of some of the most beautiful places in East Tennessee...

Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

A creek in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Scrumptious Saturday

2010-06-16T16:00:00.003-04:00

30 Minutes or Less - Steak, Steamed Fresh Vegetables and French Bread.

This will make a great dinner for Dad for Father's Day and he DOESN'T have to grill it. I do all the grilling myself!

Marinade the Steak, I make my own marinade with my own fresh herbs, Balsamic Vinegar & Worcestershire Sauce.

Here I've used Rosemary, Thyme, Marjoram, Greek Oregano and Basil. I chopped it all very fine in the mezzaluna (pictured above and below).

I pour balsamic vinegar and a touch of Worcestershire Sauce over the steaks, just enough to cover and sprinkle the herbs over.

You can salt and pepper if you like, but I prefer to avoid such common seasonings if I can get away with it. The IMPORTANT trick with the balsamic vinegar is to not let it marinade too long or it will pre-cook the meat! Also a note on balsamic vinegar, if you are cooking game meat such as Venison this is good to take the "game-y-ness" out of it.

Steamed Fresh Vegetables, I picked these up today at the local Farmer's Market. It's a shame that as green as we try to be, the farmers still prepackaged the vegetables in plastic. Well, not the carrots - those aren't in season yet locally those are from the grocery store. Even with your local vegetables, be sure to wash them. Cut the florets off of the broccoli and cauliflower stems, put in a steamer basket (in a pot) and add about 2" of water to the bottom - just enough for the water to be barely visible through the steamer basket. Cover with a lid and bring the water to a boil. Boil for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are bright in color. Steaming is the best way to keep the most nutrients in the vegetables.

French Bread was pre made (by someone at the Bakery) and all I'm doing here is slicing it, buttering it adding a bit of seasoning and toasting it. OK, I skipped the seasonings on the bread because it smelled so good without. And I was right, adding seasoning would have spoiled the taste of it.

As a testimony to this meal, my daughter, who usually wont eat steak at all, chose this dinner over her PB&J! The medium to medium rare cooking of the steak made it easier for her to chew and swallow. She ate all the broccoli and carrots and of course the bread, but wasn't too keen on the cauliflower. I'll introduce that one a few more times to see if she'll take to it.

Monogramming Available

2010-06-16T11:01:00.005-04:00

All items are now able to be monogrammed for a small fee. Please choose either the single or 3 letter listing. If you'd prefer a full name or anything else larger please contact me in my etsy shop for a price quote depending upon the size, number of letters, etc that you'd like done.

Light & Easy

2010-05-01T17:45:00.001-04:00

Boiled Artichokes and Bruschetta (my way)

This meal is one that has no meat, but once in a while its nice to have a meal that doesn't revolve around meat and potatoes. Surprisingly the artichokes are very filling, however for the first time you might want to add one other appetizer with it to be on the safe side. This meal is enough to easily fill us. I have lots of pictures so I'm going to try to be as thorough as I can.
For the Artichokes You'll need:
Whole artichokes (1 per person) garlic, olive oil, fresh herbs of choice
First thing is first, get your water started boiling. You'll need a pot large enough to allow your artichokes freedom of movement while boiling, so get that water started before anything else.

Cut the thorns off the artichokes! This is an important step and one you'll only forget once! They aren't called "chokes" by accident. Use scissors to cut the tip of each leaf off and then use a sharp knife to slice off all of the top portion at once.

Next cut off the bottoms so that they sit even as pictured below.

Once the water gets boiling, add olive oil, about 2 turns = 2 Tbsp. should do it add minced garlic, I've shown in pictures the best way to get the skin off the garlic, chop, then mince it. So here ya go:

Put the clove under the knife blade facing away from you and SMASH it.

Take the skin off and discard it as I've never found a use for the skin... yet.

Now that its smashed its much easier to chop, then take your blade and rock back and forth the opposite direction in which you chopped. Scrape it back into a pile and do this a few more times until the garlic is minced to your liking.

Put the minced garlic clove, minced herbs of choice (I used what I have growing - Rosemary, Thyme, Greek Oregano, and Sweet Marjoram)

a pinch of salt and the artichokes into the boiling water (chokes should be bottom side down). Put the lid on and let them boil for 30 minutes - then flip them over to boil bottom side up for another 15 minutes. Once they're done (45 minutes total boiling time) take them out to a colander to strain the water out.

While they're boiling make the Bruschetta and dipping sauces for the chokes.

Bruschetta, you'll need
Italian or French loaf bread (sliced to about 1" thick), garlic clove, olive oil, diced tomatoes (I use canned sometimes when they're not in season locally since I didn't can any myself last year), fresh basil (since I didn't grow Basil this year I chose the same minced herbs I used in the boiling water with the artichokes), and Parmesan cheese.

Toast Bread then rub with 1/2 clove of garlic (toasting it first is important for this step to work). Brush with Olive Oil, put diced tomatoes fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese on and broil for about 2 minutes.

For the dipping sauces I don't have pictures, but the directions are simple.

1st one, get about 2 Tbsp. of Mayo (or that Miracle Salad Dressing it doesn't really matter) and add about 1/2 Tbsp Olive Oil and herbs as you prefer, mix it all together.
2nd one, melt butter and add garlic, Parmesan cheese to taste.
Both are used to dip the artichoke leaves in, to eat the leaves you scrape the meaty underside against your bottom teeth and discard the fibrous top part of the leaf. The "heart" is really the soft bottom that once you peel all the leaves off will be fabulous to eat but DO NOT eat the "choke" which you should be able to tell what it is as it would undoubtedly choke you!

Bon Appetite!

A Few of My Favorite Things!

2010-03-17T21:25:00.003-04:00

Go to my shop and click on favorites to purchase any of these.

2010-02-24T13:04:00.000-05:00

Too Good NOT to share!

For too long we have been too complacent about the workings of Congress. Many citizens had no idea that Congress members could retire with the same pay after only one term, that they didn't pay into Social Security, that they specifically exempted themselves from many of the laws they have passed (such as being exempt from any fear of prosecution for sexual harassment) while ordinary citizens must live under those laws. The latest is to exempt themselves from the Healthcare Reform that is being considered...in all of its forms. Somehow, that doesn't seem logical. We do not have an elite that is above the law. I truly don't care if they are Democrat, Republican, Independent or whatever. The self-serving must stop. This is a good way to do that. It is an idea whose time has come.

Proposed 28th Amendment to the United States Constitution:

"Congress shall make no law that applies to the citizens of the United States that does not apply equally to the Senators and Representatives; and, Congress shall make no law that applies to the Senators and Representatives that does not apply equally to the citizens of the United States".

Each person contact a minimum of twenty people on their Address list, in turn ask each of those to do likewise. Then in three days, all people in The United States of America will have the Message. This is one proposal that really should be passed around.

Green Tip of the Week

2010-02-22T17:21:00.004-05:00

Tips for Greener Travel

Reducing your speed to 55 mph from 70 mph could increase your fuel efficiency by 23 percent.

I've been Featured

2010-02-17T12:33:00.006-05:00

Our Child

2010-02-14T21:41:00.005-05:00

Each little child God sends our way
Is like a piece of soft, new clay;
'Tis ours to mold and shape and trim;
To make it pleasing unto Him.

Each little thing we do or say
Makes an impression, day by day,
On every growing mind and heart,
Forming a pattern from the start.

Oh! What a solemn trust is ours,
How we must guard these precious hours!
Too soon this clay will be a stone
Our chance is gone... our child is grown!

If we but take the time to pray,
And seek God's guidance every day.
He'll give us strength and wisdom, too,
To help out child grow strong and true.

- Dorothy V. Garka

I thought this was worth sharing. Hope it touched you as it did me. Oh how she's grown! This picture taken when she was not yet 3!

Scrumptious Saturday, on Friday

2010-02-12T18:09:00.001-05:00

Citrus Mahi Mahi Meal

This first one is one of our favorites. Citrus Mahi Mahi, served on a bed of Jasmine Rice with Steamed Broccoli and Strawberry Salad.

The Fish:
Mahi Mahi Fillets (or Halibut Steaks, about 1" thick if you use the Halibut)
1/4 cup butter or margarine (really folks, butter DOES taste better)
3 Tbsp. Chopped Onion (I prefer green onion, it adds a color dimension)
2 Tbsp. Chopped Fresh Parsley
6 oz. Frozen O.J. thawed (it comes in 8 oz. cans - just be sure its concentrated)
1 Lemon Sliced (for garnish)
2 pinches sea salt for seasoning
pepper to taste

Saute onion in butter until tender, stir in the o.j. and some of the salt and cook until heated through, then add the parsley (be careful not to heat the mixture to boil as it can scorch). Sprinkle the fish with salt and pepper, drizzle with the O.J. mixture. Broil for approximately 5 minutes or until the fish flakes easily with a fork. You can also cook this on the grill if the fish still has skin on it and when removing from the grill be sure to separate the fish from the skin (and don't forget to clean it off the grill when it cools).

Jasmine Rice:

Follow package directions, but here's the trick an old friend from Baton Rouge LA taught me. When you cook your rice, boil it for 5 minutes on high and then wrap a towel around the lid of the pot as pictured here (be sure to keep it out of the flame or off the burner, please no fires) and turn the temp on low for 15 minutes stirring maybe once or twice to keep it from sticking. This will give you a good sticky rice instead of fluffy (which is what I prefer, sticky rice).

Steamed Broccoli:
Well this is pretty simple. For those who might not have steamed their vegetables this is an excellent way to keep the most of the nutrients in the vegetable AND since its not mushy like boiling it the kids seem to like it a little better. Use fresh broccoli for best results, cut the stalk off as close to the "flower" as possible. Get a large pot and put only an inch or two of water in the bottom and put the vegetable (in this case broccoli) in a steamer basket (if you don't have a steamer basket they're pretty cheap and available at most grocery stores, invest in one). Put a lid on it and bring the water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, sprinkle a pinch or two of sea salt on the vegetables, put the lid back on and steam for about 5 minutes or until the color of the vegetable is as bright as you've ever seen it. Its done then!

The Salad:
I used the freshest ingredients in season locally at my Farmer's Market.
I was able to get:

Red Romain Lettuce, Fresh picked Strawberries (don't these look good?), Green Onions (same as used in Citrus Sauce), Mushrooms (the farm is in the next county so I'm pretty sure the grocery has the fresh ones), Almond Slivers (store bought, I didn't roast and slice my almonds), Raspberry Walnut Vinaigrette Dressing added a nice touch of flavor.

This is one of those that you can really add what ever you want to it - I really like Strawberries in the spring time when the Tomatoes are not yet ripe locally. The local produce has much better flavor than anything shipped in and I always recommend it for supporting your local growers is another way of being GREEN too (but that info will be in a different Super Hero weekly Green update).

Presentation is everything, well it has to taste good too...

Bon Appetite!

We had vanilla yogurt with some of the sliced strawberries for desert.
This is an older post that I thought I'd bring back (slightly edited) for those who might have missed it a few years back. Its really easy and great and might make a nice Valentine's dinner for your special someone.

Monogramming

2010-02-11T22:32:00.003-05:00

Maddie & ME, Children's Handcrafted Couture now offers monogramming and embroidery in house. Simply choose the item you want (dress, nightgown, apron, boo boo bag, etc) and choose one of the monogram listings and tell me the name to be monogrammed in the notes. Its that simple and makes a perfectly gift that is ready to give.

Back on the Horse!

2010-02-08T17:44:00.004-05:00

I've been offline, off blogging, off etsy and off in LaLa Land for long enough.
I am going to get back on that horse! So to start, here's my new and MUCH smaller (and still a work in progress) workroom. I am proud that I hung all shelves by my self and they're level!

Its Mid May Already?

2009-05-18T13:52:00.007-04:00

Wow how time flies! Its been a while since I've posted on this blog, but being busy is good.
I've got some new Summer items I'm working on and hope to have a few new items to show off very soon. I am bringing in some more baby items and expanding my pillowcase line. The skirt sets and boys sets are still going strong and my newest favorites are the halter dresses. Both the "Old Jeans, New Dress" and the "Halter Case" are fun touch of something new and different. Keep your eyes open for some "Flip N Switch" my newest flip flop style.

I Have Been Blessedly Busy!

2009-04-16T11:04:00.011-04:00

So I've noticed that I haven't put a post up for a month now! WOW and Oops! I would like to introduce a few of my newest items; Bibs for boys and girls with some super cute bug bibs!

Gift sets available for boy and girl or gender neutral and although not pictured baby bonnets are available! Please take a minute and check out the newest items at the etsy shop (coming soon to Hyena Cart, 1000Markets and Artfire)

Children's Book Review

2009-03-17T11:45:00.006-04:00

It is Tuesday and once again time for the Children's Book Review. Sorry guys, this one is really mostly for the young ladies and moms that live vicariously through their little girls.

The Princess and the Snarls

by Patricia R. Eubank

This is a fabulously fun book in so many different ways. First, it includes a boudoir style dressing table with a mirror in the front of the book. Second, it has a paper doll (attached as a book mark so you won't lose her) with paper doll clothes and a little wardrobe to keep them in. However fun all these items are, the best part of this book is the story which is why we read books after all. The Princess is gifted lovely long locks by the local faeries and through some misfortune is unable to keep the snarls out of her hair. The story is a great read about friends you may meet in the most unlikely places.

Superhero Tips from "The Green Girls" - Saving the Planet One Lightbulb at a Time!

2009-03-12T15:59:00.005-04:00

There are a number of ways to save water, and they all start with you!

When washing dishes by hand, don't let the water run while rinsing. Fill one sink with wash water and the other with rinse water.
Some refrigerators, air conditioners and ice-makers are cooled with wasted flows of water. Consider upgrading with air-cooled appliances for significant water savings.
Adjust sprinklers so only your lawn is watered and not the house, sidewalk, or street.
Run your clothes washer and dishwasher only when they are full. You can save up to 1,000 gallons a month.
Choose shrubs and ground covers instead of turf for hard-to-water areas such as steep slopes and isolated strips.
Install covers on pools and spas and check for leaks around your pumps.
Use the garbage disposal sparingly. Compost vegetable food waste instead and save gallons every time.
Plant in the fall when conditions are cooler and rainfall is more plentiful.
Monitor your water bill for unusually high use. Your bill and water meter are tools that can help you discover leaks.
Water your lawn and garden in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler to minimize evaporation.

For more tips on how to save water please check out this web site.

Hope you enjoyed my Green Girls Tips for this Thursday and remember We have only one Earth, let’s treat it with respect so our children can learn from our example and have a great place to raise their children.

Designs Etcetera now has a BLOG

2009-03-12T13:58:00.003-04:00

This is my mom's business and blog. She will be offering interior design tips and hints, recipes (hey, who do you think taught me to cook?) and local restaurant reviews. Please take a moment and check it out. Feel free to comment on either blog as we'd love the feedback!

Answers given by 2nd grade school children to the following questions

2009-03-06T16:11:00.003-05:00

Why did God make mothers?
1. She's the only one who knows where the scotch tape is.
2. Mostly to clean the house.
3. To help us out of there when we were getting born.

How did God make mothers?
1. He used dirt, just like for the rest of us.
2. Magic plus super powers and a lot of stirring.
3. God made my mom just the same like he made me. He just used bigger parts.

What ingredients are mothers made of?
1. God makes mothers out of clouds and angel hair and everything nice in the world and one dab of mean.
2. They had to get their start from men's bones. Then they mostly use string, I think.

Why did God give you your mother and not some other mom?
1. We're related.
2. God knew she likes me a lot more than other people's mom like me.

What kind of a little girl was your mom?
1. My mom has always been my mom and none of that other stuff.
2. I don't know because I wasn't there, but my guess would be pretty bossy.
3. They say she used to be nice.

What did mom need to know about dad before she married him?
1. His last name.

Superhero Tips from "The Green Girls" - Saving the Planet One Lightbulb at a Time!

2009-03-05T16:32:00.003-05:00

Shopping: The Simple Steps as taken from the green book (hey, its a great resource!)

Try to buy products with minimal to no packaging. If just one out of ten products you bought had little or no packaging, it would eliminate more than fifty pounds of waste per household per year. This small reduction could also save you at least $30 annually, as $1 of every $11 that you spend at the supermarket pays for the packaging of the products you buy. If every household did this, 5.5 billion fewer pounds of waste would enter landfills. This is enough garbage to cover all of New York City's Central Park to a depth of twenty-seven feet.

I pulled the packaging picture above from the site mentioned and was pleased to find a link to green packaging.

Hope you enjoyed my Green Girls Tips for this Thursday and remember We have only one Earth, let’s treat it with respect so our children can learn from our example and have a great place to raise their children.

I'm So Pleased!

2009-02-20T23:23:00.005-05:00

I can't help myself. I am so pleased with this one that I just HAD to show it somewhere. Since it is a Mickey Mouse fabric and I am NOT licensed this is NOT available for sale (so sorry), it was made as a gift for my friend's grandson. I had so much fun making it, AND I found the up cycled shorts at my friend Ginger's shop. Don't they just match perfectly?

Superhero Tips from "The Green Girls" - Saving the Planet One Lightbulb at a Time!

2009-02-19T17:25:00.003-05:00

The Many Uses of
Baking Soda

OK, I grew up thinking Baking Soda had one use only. To sit open in the fridge for undetermined amounts of time with no apparent reason. (Sorry Mom, its true) So as a teenager I discovered that it could be used to whiten the teeth if I could only stand the taste... and the fact that it had absorbed months of fridge odors probably enhanced the taste.

As a mom and a somewhat environmentally friendly one I've discovered that Baking Soda has many uses and sometimes when nothing else works thats when Baking Soda comes to the rescue once again. So, in honor of one of the "old fashioned" house cleaning remedies here is a list of household uses straight off the Arm & Hammer Box!

Uses in the Kitchen (for scratchless cleaning)
- Sinks, Counters, Ovens, Refrigerators, Coffee Pots, Microwaves, Pots & Pans, Stainless Steel, China

Uses in the Bathroom (will safely remove stains, and lift off dirt and soap scum)
- Sinks, Counters, Tubs, Showers, Toilets, Tile, Grout & More

For Household Deodorizing (absorbs & eliminates odors on contact)
- Garbage Pail, Carpets, Disposals & Drains, Litter Boxes, Dishwasher (between uses)

For Pure & Natural Personal Care
- Relaxing Bath (add 1/2 cup into your tub for a refreshing bath or foot soak)
- Fuller, More Manageable Hair (add 1 tsp to your shampoo once a week)
- Invigorating Yet Gentle Facial Exfoliant (after washing face, apply a paste of 3 parts Baking Soda, to 1 part of water in a circular motion. Rinse for a fresh, clean face).

Visit armhammer.com for more baking soda tips and spacial offers!!!!!

Hope you enjoyed my Green Girls Tips for this Thursday and remember We have only one Earth, let’s treat it with respect so our children can learn from our example and have a great place to raise their children.

Children's Book Review

2009-02-17T14:00:00.003-05:00

It's Hard to Be Five ,

Learning How to Work My Control Panel
by Jamie Lee Curtis
illustrated by Laura Cornell

Quote from book jacket
"It's hard to be five. Just yelled at my brother. My mind says do one thing, my mouth says another."
"Its fun to be five! Big changes are here! My body's my car, and I'm licensed to steer!"

This book is fabulous! My little one is just now five and this not only helps her to understand the big physical and emotional changes that are going on, but it truly helps me as well. When we have a "Hard to be 5" day; one of us remembers the book and we talk about how it is hard to be five, how it relates to the problem at hand and what we are going to do to change it and make it a "Fun to be 5" day. I highly recommend this book to the parent of any toddler (plan ahead it will be worth it) or Pre-Schooler. Now if I can only get my husband to read it and realize how it applies in our 5 year olds daily life...

Newest Items!

2009-02-14T22:13:00.010-05:00

First I must apologize for not posting my recipe today, things just didn't flow in the right direction for that to happen, I'll do a real doosie next Sataturday to make up for it.

Now, drum roll please (parumtumtumtutmtutmtutmtum)
I have finally made a boy item. For all of you who have been asking me for the past year when am I going to come up with something for the boys? Well, here it is! The first of many (ok, well lets be realistic I'm only one person so the first of several boy styles). Let me know what you think, I thought the fossilized dinosaur was pretty cool personally.
The puppy onesie is a 0-3 month that was a local custom order.
It is SO tiny!

Also, here is another of the other items I do, an up-cycled shirt dress. I take a shirt and make a dress out of it, it really is as simple as that. Some have a matching appliqué as my Christmas one did and others seem to look best without. I just take my cue from the shirt and fabric that I'm using as to how to do it. Some have a drop waist and others empire. If you would like me to make one of these custom shirt dresses, just drop me a line and I'll give you a quote.

Easter Toile Dress

2009-02-12T23:42:00.000-05:00

I am just so very proud of this one that I wanted to blog about it. It has been rolling around in my head since early January, and its SO nice when it turns out just like I envisioned it. Thanks for looking and for checking out my blog. Recipe will be up Saturday in the afternoon in case anyone was needing idea's of what to make for Valentine's Day dinner.

Superhero Tips from "The Green Girls" - Saving the Planet One Lightbulb at a Time!

2009-02-12T11:54:00.000-05:00

I have to admit I'm feeling a little weak on the Green Post this week, so I'm just going to offer a few quick tips from my favorite book, the green book.

Toy Manufacturers
Try frequenting shops that sell locally made toys. Of all toys purchased in the United States, 80 percent are made overseas, and 71 percent are made in China, where environmental laws are weak. If you support locally produced goods, you could reduce the pollution and fuel costs associated with shipping products across the Pacific Ocean.

Crayons
Avoid Crayons made from paraffin wax, which is derived from petroleum. Instead, try using crayons made from soybean oil, which have the added benefit of being nontoxic. America is the largest producer of soybeans in the world. From this we could product well over one trillion crayons - without tapping oil supplies.
These chunky crayons made my "MonsterBug" are made from Crayola crayons which are non toxic (and I'm still researching to see if they're soy).

Crystal
If you buy crystal, choose lead-free varieties. The lead content of a beverage stored in a standard crystal decanter can be 130 times higher than the EPA standard for lead in drinking water. Not only is exposure highly toxic to humans, but the environmental effects of lead mining can last for millennial. Groundwater supplies in Wales, famous for its crystal making, continue to be polluted by lead mines excavated more than two thousand years ago.
WHAT??? THIS ONE BLEW MY MIND!!!! I never thought of that!

More next week! Hope you enjoyed my Green Girls Tips for this Thursday and remember We have only one Earth, let’s treat it with respect so our children can learn from our example and have a great place to raise their children.

Children's Book Review

2009-02-10T10:00:00.001-05:00

"The Dream Jar"

by Lindan Lee Johnson
Illustrated by Serena Curmi

Well, first I must say that I am a firm believer in everything happens for a reason and only just when its supposed to. That being said this book is exactly what we needed and when exactly we needed it. So we have had a rash of bad dreams lately that have caused this mommy to not have a solid night's sleep in well over a month. This book is looking to be the perfect cure for her bad dreams AND without looking too deep you can see that there are simple directions to follow to teach your own bad dreamer The Secret of how to change their bad dreams to good ones.

I can't say enough about how much we enjoyed this book. We read it twice in a row and prepared our own substitute "Dream Jar" until we can make a proper one as our craft project tomorrow. The illustrations are fun, quirky and rich with color and deep with definition. This is a definite must purchase since it came from the library we'll have to return it and look for a copy of our own to have.

Recipe!!!!!

2009-02-07T12:00:00.000-05:00

Yes, I am finally bringing back my weekly recipe posts.

This one is for a homemade version of Pizza Pockets. It comes straight from this month's issue of Cookie Magazine. It is relatively easy to make and fun to involve the kids. It wasn't until after the whole dinner was made that I remembered to take pictures, so I'll post the recipe with a finished product.

I will also list their recipe and my modifications since I never do anything "by the book."
Cookie calls for: (what I used will be in parentheses)

1 16 ounce bag store bought pizza dough (Jiffy Pizza Dough mix - not too bad but a little more effort)
6 TBSP fresh or jarred marinara sauce (Pre-made Pizza Sauce, generic brand)
6 store bought turkey meatballs (6 store bought frozen beef meatballs)
6 TBSP shredded mozzarella cheese
1 TBSP grated Parmesan cheese (I didn't use it, I forgot)
1 egg
1 tsp milk (I didn't use it)
(canned sliced mushrooms, we LIKE mushrooms)
Muffin Pan

-Since I used a different dough style I had to modify my oven temp - recipe calls for 375 and Jiffy Mix called for 425 so I cut the difference and heated my oven to 400.
-They call for the dough to be rolled out about 1/4" thick and cut into eighths (noting that a little has to be wasted). Since I had to make the dough, I basically patted, smacked and flattened it out to something close to 1/4" and cut it into 6 even(ish) pieces.
-Grease muffin cups - I used good ole' fashioned butter flavor Pam, but so long as its greased I don't think it matters how. Line each muffin cup with a piece of dough letting some hang over the sides.
-Fill each with 1 TBSP of sauce, 1 meatball, (mushroom slices) and 1TBSP of shredded cheese.
-Gather each bot of excess dough up around the filling, pinching it together at the top.
-Whisk the egg with milk (oops I forgot the milk and it didn't really matter) and brush it onto each pouch.
-Bake until golden, 15 to 20 minutes (I went for 20 with my oven well preheated).

TIP - Pinch of some pizza dough, hand your toddler a rolling pin, and watch him/ her lock in.

I'm being featured!

2009-02-06T11:13:00.004-05:00

WOW! If you'll look to the left you'll see the "I've been featured on Dashin Fashion" button... well as a matter of fact I AM BEING featured currently. If you haven't seen it, please click on the bright pink Dashin Fashion button to your left. Halfway down the page right in the middle is a lovely feature of Maddie & ME, Handcrafted Children's Couture. I'm also currently in the top spot on the Dashin Fashion blog. I'm very proud to be in such company as those others on this lovely website. If you haven't checked it out, take some time and bump around Dashin Fashion and see what all you can find. Lovely items for children from all over the globe, who knows you just might find something you can't live without!

Superhero Tips from "The Green Girls" - Saving the Planet One Lightbulb at a Time!

2009-02-05T12:00:00.003-05:00

Well as a handmade clothing designer it seems a little awkward to to recommend this Green Girls Tip, but in the long run this is definitely the way we do things!

Quoted from the green book
Secondhand Clothing: Give secondhand clothing a chance. The average American purchases forty-eight articles of new clothing per year. If just one of those articles were purchased from a secondhand store, the energy equivalent of more than half a gallon of gasoline could be saved, because of all the energy used to manufacture and transport new clothes. If one in every ten Americans substituted his or her next purchase of one new garment with a vintage one, the energy saved could fly every resident of Hollywood to New York for Fashion Week.

We shop at several Resale Shops in our area not only for children's clothing, but also for items to up-cycle for sale. As a children's clothing designer I know the value of what it takes to make an item, even if I'm not mass producing on Mega Store scale. If I can get some resale items and up-cycle those to make something different and keep yet one more item out of the land FULL then absolutely I will do it.

Also in my area it is the resale shops that allow me to sell my boutique items on consignment and have some local customers in addition to my loyal following from the internet. Please take a few minutes and check out your local resale shop by going to the National Association of Resale and Thrift Shops NARTS shopping guide. Here are links to my local shops that I frequent most Gingerly Dressed and Jack N Jill.

I'm sure you too can find some fabulous items at your local resale shop, and save the planet while saving money.

We have only one Earth, let’s treat it with respect so our children can learn from our example and have a great place to raise their children.

Introducing The Collection

2009-02-04T19:50:00.006-05:00

So here is my grand introduction to The Collection! A friend of mine, her mom and I have gone in together and started a new line of children's clothing called The Collection. Some of these items will cross over into Maddie & ME, but not many and not often. The Collection is more about stock items for local boutiques than custom sized couture.

We officially launched during a Ladies Conference at a local church and have already dispersed our items among several local boutiques.

A Few Oldies and One New...?

2009-01-26T10:13:00.004-05:00

Well I am happy to announce that beginning in February I will be bringing back my old weekly posts. Tuesday will again be the day for the Children's Book Review, Thursday will see a comeback of the Super Hero Set, "The Green Girls - Saving the Planet One Lightbulb at a Time" and Saturday I will again be offering a Weekly Recipe. These are all the "weeklies" I used to do that were quite popular and running two businesses got in the way of them. Since I am no longer going to keep up Mommy's Little Helper in full force, I expect to have the time to devote to these favorite posts.
And as for something new, I am so very excited to announce that I am now listed with some of the finest Children's Shops on Dashin Fashion. Please take a minute and check out that site, they have MANY wonderful children's shops in addition to mine. I'm listed under the handmade tab, but there are so many wonderful places to look on this site. Also, look around the globe and see what other countries are offering in the way of Children's Products. As I've said before be darned the CPSIA I am continuing my business as planned, I WILL NOT let that law scare me out of business!

My Newest Product for Spring

2009-01-22T19:00:00.000-05:00

So here they are, a bit earlier than the rest of my spring line 2009, but I couldn't help myself. I just had to go ahead and introduce the "Shabby Chic Skirt" for spring

These skirts are fun, easy and go with tights while its still cold. They'll work well through the summer and are great for play time as well as casual dress up. They come in the fabrics pictured and more are being added all the time. The floral ones are only available as is, the Laura Ashley up-cycle and the Summer Stripes are available in other sizes as requested.

Small, 2/3 is approximately 10" long
Medium, 4/5 is approximately 13" long
Large, 6/6x is approximately 15" long

All styles have elastic waist that is quite liberal in the size child it will fit. If you need more description or dimensions please contact me and I'll be happy to oblige. All items include clothing tag with care instructions and as of the current CPSIA requirements are compliant.

I'm happy to announce that I've already sold one skirt and have been featured in a treasury! These skirts are currently available in my shops on etsy and 1000Markets and will arrive in the America's Handmade Homefront on Hyena Cart very soon. Take some time and check out all that I've been up to and please note that more is coming soon!

Blogging on 1000Markets

2009-01-20T17:29:00.006-05:00

Well my 1000Markets shop has a blog as well so I will be doing occasional duplicates when the need arises... and it has arisen. I wanted to share this with all my viewers so I am putting a copy of the post from the 1000Markets Blog here as well. Thanks and enjoy.

OK, well this shop is coming together slower than expected, but it IS coming together. The challanges I've faced are those listed above.

Time, yes time. No its not an excuse, but its all I've got at the moment. Running 5 e-stores, working part time, being a wife and mother and I've just not been able to devote the time to setting up this shop as I'd hoped. That being said, I am still setting up slowly and doing it that way because I want this venue to be fabulous and it will be when I'm done.

CPSIA, yes anyone who is familiar with this issue is aware that we who create products for children have been painfully aware of the "impending doom" that this law will bring. Not so, says I. I am going to move forward cautiously all the while keeping in line with the guidelines that have been set forth to date. I can assure all my current and potential customers one thing for sure, whatever the CPSC decides to set forth in restrictions are for our children's best interest and as such will be adhered to by Maddie & ME with the utmost attention. (ie. I'll follow the rules and all products will be properly labeled).

Production, well with this new year I've decided to make some changes to the way I've done things both in the local boutiques that I work with and on the internet venues. The way this should work is that in every internet venue I'll have the same items offered, the same lead times and occasionally each venue will get a one of a kind special listing that the others don't have just to keep it fresh. I've also been working on producing as much spring stock as possible for my local boutiques to have in February. In the past I've offered a more one of a kind style and came up against a road block of someone always wanting whatever it was I'd produced in a different size. That doesn't bode well with one of a kind work so now I am offering fewer styles in multiple sizes, we'll see how that plays out locally as well as here on the internet venues.

And finally, for those of you who know me you know that I also have Mommy's Little Helper, Bath & Body for the Soul and have announced that I will be closing that shop and moving a select few of the most popular items over to Maddie & ME. That will also happen here on 1000Markets, so please keep your eyes out for some new items in the bath & body collection COMING SOON!

It is Official

2009-01-12T20:49:00.001-05:00

Yes, Mommy's Little Helper is getting rather empty. I am planning on closing up shop and transferring some of the most popular items over to 1MaddieAndMe.etsy.com. I have labored over this decision and in the end it is what I have to do for my family and to keep my sanity. Running two shops last year taught me many things and ultimately it taught me that I over extended. Please feel free to contact me with any questions or bulk orders before I close up for good. Thank you and remember that I am still here with the children's clothing.

New Years Resolutions

2008-12-31T10:27:00.006-05:00

OK, so the experts say to set realistic goals for a New Years Resolution. They also say don't forget you have the whole year to accomplish said goal... that was a little too much leeway for me. So my New Years Resolutions are immediately attainable, fun and not one of them is about what I'm NOT going to do!

1) Pray More
2) Play More
3) Get a Massage weekly (oh yes, that is a goal of mine)

I hope everyone has a blessed, safe, happy, healthy, prosperous 2009!

What's yours?

Where is "Maddie & ME" going now?

2008-12-21T00:39:00.013-05:00

Pack up the kids, the pets and the clothes Maddie & ME, Children's Handcrafted Couture is expanding on to some new venues!

Maddie & ME is setting up on 1000Markets and Artfire! Both are slated to open January 1, 2009 in conjunction with the revamping of the Maddie & ME on Etsy and Hyena Cart. Please keep your eyes peeled for all the great and wonderful changes that we are undergoing.

Oh, and a side note... Mommy's Little Helper was just featured on the Front Page of etsy! Love that Cleopatra's Milk Bath!

Maddie & ME to under go some changes

2008-12-15T20:41:00.007-05:00

Regardless of the impending government regulations that could restrict my ability to make and sell children's clothing I am going to go ahead with the planned changes for Maddie & ME, Children's Handcrafted Couture.

I started Maddie & ME locally and off line in August of 2007. Sales were good and people seemed to like my one of a kind way of doing things here in the area. I originally started with the idea of making items for child and mother in coordinating styles and fabrics, hence the name Maddie & ME. Then I realized that was NOT feesable since it would be near impossible to guess what size the mother and what size the daughter might possibly be so although I will still make the sets on custom order request its not something I list and sell regularly. So then I opened the etsy site trying to keep with the idea of one of a kind. Maddie & ME just celebrated our first year on etsy Dec. 10, 2008. Its been a wild and wonderful year and through the process I've learned a lot.

I've decided to clean out my shop and revamp it. The reason for this is because what I seem to come across is almost every item I make I hear "Love it, but can you make it in ___ size?" This means that my one of a kind items, though useful in our small town where shopping is limited is NOT the way to go on etsy. What I plan to do is to offer several (I'm thinking 7) different styles and with those styles fabric selections. Instead of getting small quantities of fabric and making one of a kind items I plan to order larger quantities of fabric and make items to order. The quality and attention to detail will remain the same. The availability for custom sizing will also remain a constant in my shop as will custom orders for the hard to fit child.

I also feel that by making these changes I will be able to devote more time to my family and duties as a mother and wife (in addition to being an employee to my own mother and business owner of two businesses myself). I just feel like I've been spinning my wheels making all these items that everyone seems to want in a different size so I am emptying out my shop of ALL stock items and am selling at 25% off and also willing to take trade from other sellers.

Uh OH! Is the Government Going to Regulate Me Right Out of Business?

2008-12-10T22:23:00.007-05:00

I am now more afraid than ever. First I heard of this FDA Globalization Act of 2008 and possibly implementing a large yearly registration fee and mounds of paperwork for all bath and beauty manufacturers. Now the "Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act" looks to regulate me right out of the Children's Clothing business. The following quote is take from the Handmade Toy Alliance

"For small American, Canadian, and European toy makers, however, the costs of mandatory testing will likely drive them out of business.

A toymaker, for example, who makes wooden cars in his garage in Maine to supplement his income cannot afford the $4,000 fee per toy that testing labs are charging to assure compliance with the CPSIA.
A work at home mom in Minnesota who makes dolls to sell at craft fairs must choose either to violate the law or cease operations.
A small toy retailer in Vermont who imports wooden toys from Europe, which has long had stringent toy safety standards, must now pay for testing on every toy they import.
And even the handful of larger toy makers who still employ workers in the United States face increased costs to comply with the CPSIA, even though American-made toys had nothing to do with the toy safety problems of 2007.

The CPSIA simply forgot to exclude the class of toys that have earned and kept the public's trust: Toys made in the US, Canada, and Europe. The result, unless the law is modified, is that handmade toys will no longer be legal in the US.

If this law had been applied to the food industry, every farmers market in the country would be forced to close while Kraft and Dole prospered."

Does the government really need to regulate what we are making right here in America when the problem products were mostly imports from Asia (mostly China)? Is the American government really that interested in putting me and thousands like me out of business only then have to pay welfare or some other government support program in order to supplement the income I am bringing into my household?

So what now? Medical expenses are almost 100% unreasonable, Health Insurance is almost completely unattainable, Prescription Medication is out of reach for many American's, food prices went up as a result of fuel cost increase - except fuel is now less than $1.50 a gal. here so when will they lower the food prices? NOW they are going to impose such expensive testing procedures and regulate all children's toys and clothing! How much will that increase the cost from the manufacturer (even if its not me) so that our children won't have clothes or toys?

And on that subject... are they going to send some sort of government official to confiscate all the toys and clothes that are in my child's possession? You know, the ones that were produced before this law? How will they deal with the resale shops, free-cycle, the toy swaps that so many parents are involved in, what about garage sales - lots of people sell toys, clothes and children's items right out of their own home... HOW DARE THEY BREAK THE LAW? (said with much sarcasm).

All we can do is spread the word, contact our government officials and express our outrage at this absolutely ridiculous waste of government time and money. There just HAS to be a better way to protect our children without implementing such a blanket law that makes absolutely no sense for the small businesses making Handmade, American Made products. Please, all my readers PLEASE take a few minutes and help us out!

Can't Help But to Brag a Bit

2008-12-04T22:55:00.005-05:00

I received this message earlier today through Etsy's messaging system and I was so pleased with the thoughtfulness of this lady that I wanted to share. Not every customer takes the time to tell you what they think, especially so long after the purchase. So here is the lovely compliment I received on my We Three Kings Soap and Kaldi's Dance Coffee Soap.

"Hi,
I bought this soap months ago as a gift for my friend. I never even opened the package when it came because I didn't want to be tempted to use it for myself. The other day I finally opened the envelope and I noticed you added some samples. I tried the three kings soap. I've never used handmade soap before. Even though I'm not crazy about the scent, I did like the way the soap made my hands feel. They felt clean and soft at the same time. I just want to let you know that I think you make a great product and I'm sure my friend is going to love the coffee soap!

Elizabeth
Lazy Bone Creations"

2008-12-01T11:01:00.004-05:00

For the next 4 hours I am offering a super special sale in Maddie & ME, Children's Handcrafted Couture! Free Shipping on all Stock items and I've just decided if you purchase any dress, set or vest between 11:00am and 3:00 pm est you'll get an additional 10% off (AND FREE SHIPPING).

Check out all the adorable girls holiday outfits at Maddie & ME!

Black Friday Sale

2008-11-23T20:04:00.004-05:00

I am having a sale in both my shops on both Etsy and Hyena Cart starting "Black Friday" and lasting through midnight "Cyber Monday." In both locations Mommy's Little Helper will have BUY 2 GET THE 3RD HALF OFF and Maddie & ME will have FREE SHIPPING FOR STOCK ITEMS.

Please note that Maddie & ME is no longer taking custom orders until after the holidays.

IF YOU ARE HAVING SALES IN YOUR SHOPS, PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT AND A LINK SO MY MOST WONDERFUL AND FAITHFUL READERS KNOW!

NEW SERVICE OFFERED!

2008-11-18T20:36:00.005-05:00

I am now offering Gift Wrapping and Drop Ship Service in both Maddie & ME and Mommy's Little Helper on both etsy and Hyena Cart. Here is a description of what I will do for you, my wonderful customer, to make your holiday's easier even if just by a bit!

I will gift wrap any purchase and ship it to the desired recipient for a small packaging fee. This is a standard service that I offer that I am upgrading for the Holiday Season.

Although I prefer kraft paper with beautiful ribbon I will also offer a small selection of gift wrap (photos of selection to be added). I will be using hand tied wire ribbon bows tied by me (as taught by my mother, and her by her mother) in either red, green, white or light blue as you select. Additionally I will even hand write a gift tag with any small (10 words or less) note for no extra charge.

I will be sure that all prices are removed off of all tags and corresponding paperwork. Attached I've shown pictures of the packaging styles I will use to gift wrap your very special Mommy's Little Helper gift or Maddie & ME dress / set for your very special Princess.

This package will be enclosed in a box or shipping envelope as required for shipping and I can and will even write "Do Not Open Until Christmas (or ____ day of Hanukkah)" on the outside if requested. This is a new offering for me and I'd love to accommodate my customers as much as possible. Please feel free to contact me with any requests and I'll do my best to fulfill them.

** Please note that for each gift wrap / drop ship even if going to the same location a separate listing must be purchased.

I've Been Featured!

2008-11-14T11:02:00.002-05:00

Maddie & ME has been featured on the America's Handmade Homefront site. Please take a moment and read the lovely interview that was put together by our wonderful and fearless leader, Emily of EllaBearBowtique. Thanks!

Feature Seller - dawnberries

2008-11-11T19:37:00.005-05:00

This is my first real featured seller. I came across dawnberries on Cafe Mom and am absolutely fascinated with her allergy jewelry. My child does not have food allergies, but 2 of her cousins do and so we are very sensitive to the issue. I decided to do my first interview with Dawn because I really wanted to feature what she makes and help promote the allergy jewelry. So, without further ado here is our interview:

-How did you come up with your shop name?

My name is Dawn Berry, and I thought dawnberries was funny because it sounds like my little fruits.

-What inspires you to create?

I've always made things. Since having my son, it has just changed to things like diapers and allergy jewelry. It's just something I have to do!

-How do you juggle time between family, friends, and running your shop?

I find this pretty tough, actually. My son sits on my lap sometimes while I'm on the computer. He loves to try to figure out how the sewing machine works. And his favorite thing of all is "sorting" my beads.

-Tell us what one of your products we shouldn't be without and why.

Here is my son in the first allergy necklace. We had got some of those stainless steel bracelets for him to wear when we were going to visit family in Africa. We wanted a reminder to them of what they mustn't feed him. Although they were somewhat interested in the bracelet he was wearing (& so made the effort to read it), I wanted something more obvious, nearer his face, and something cuter. Now, he always wears an allergy necklace when we go to a party or play date. He also has a couple of charms attached to his diaper bag with the names and phone numbers of his pediatrician and allergist, as well as all his allergies.

-What is unique/sets you apart from the rest about your products, materials, process?

Most of the other allergy alert items on the market are the old, metal, medical alert id bracelets. And they are geared toward medical personnel. Mine are more for people the child sees everyday. They are reminders for family, friends, and caregivers. And they are cute and stylish and use engraved wooden beads, along with things like natural amber beads (double duty for teething) and sterling silver findings.

-What is your favorite handmade possession?

It's got to be something from my grandma but I'm not sure which thing. I have beaded Xmas ornaments, crocheted-top tea towels, several knitted sweaters and an afghan. I cherish them all!

-Besides on etsy, where can we find your products?

I also have a store on hyenacart at www.hyenacart.com/dawnberries.

-What new items should we be on the look out for from your shop?

I have some anodized aluminum dog tags that will be listed very soon. They say "I have food allergies" on one side and can be personalized with the specific allergies on the other side. They come in a variety of colors and can be attached to almost anything. I have also been making leather wrist bands, both engraved and hand tooled, which are about to be listed and feature colorful plastic snaps.

If you want to add anything what so ever that you think would benefit this feature please feel free to do so.

I love to buy hand-made also, and have started some collaborations too. I have used some beautiful one of a kind, hand-made, glass lampwork beads made by The Purple Triangle to make some allergy charms. I am also currently working on a collaboration with another etsian, The Eli Monster, to make some silk-screened fabric badges that say FOOD ALLERGIES.

Hand & Body Cream Release

2008-11-10T09:24:00.002-05:00

The newest product to be unveiled by Mommy's Little Helper will be released for purchase on Hyena Cart at NOON today, November 10th, 2008! Mommy's Little Helper will also release the same product for purchase on etsy later the same day. Please come to Hyena Cart to get the first available as it is first come first served. Once the first batch is sold out it will be about 5 days before the second release.

2008-11-07T17:30:00.006-05:00

HAVE YOU ENTERED?

My friend, Smokey Mountain Scents is having a featured seller and give away on her blog! Since I'm not currently
giving anything away I thought I'd promote hers.

Go check it out at Smokey Mountain Scents and enter to win!
And since you're on my site looking I thought I'd show you a few
of my favorite items that "Smokey" makes.
Links provided, just click on the pictures!

Hope you've enjoyed this little interlude. Since I haven't anything else worked up to blog about at this time it seemed reasonable to promote her work. After all she IS a friend.

2008-11-04T21:18:00.010-05:00

HAND & BODY CREAM

"Intensive Therapy, Hardcore Moisture"

ALL NATURAL!

I don't need to say too much about how fabulous this new product is; I'll let my product testers tell you in their own words.

ArmyWifeWYO says: The hand cream was great it soaked right into my hands which is great for me, as it is so dry here in Wyoming. After about a hour I didn't have to reapply like I do other lotions which is great! I also like the fact that you didn't have to use very much to rub all over onto my hands! As for anything I don't like? ... nothing, this lotion is great!! And the best lotion I have had in a long time to help my rough dry hands!

TannerCustomCraft says: The healing hand and body lotion felt so good and creamy putting it on and smelled so refreshingly minty. It even reminded me of Doublemint gum!

TulipTreeBaby says: This has a very nice scent and is very moisturizing. My only complaint is that it has a slight greasy feel on my ultra dry finger tips. I am not sure how to accurately describe why this is, I think I would just like it a bit smoother. But it goes on much better after a shower or washing hands. It definitely makes a great night cream. I think I am going to try using the rest of it up by using it more frequently. I think part of my problem is washing my hands too many times during the day and not always putting lotion back on, because I haven't found a lotion yet that ever really heals the deep cracks. Based on that I would say that my review of your lotion is not as accurate as it could be. Other than that, I am really liking the lotion more and more as I use it. The smell is so refreshing and feels good on my upper hands and arms.

SMOX says: The lotion- LOVE it! You may want to let people know that it takes a little while for your skin to soak it all in... took about 5 minutes for me... but once it did... i was amazed. I have extremely dry skin, especially my hands. I often suffer from cracked knuckles and cuticles which is extremely painful, and even more difficult to combat! Within 5 minutes of using Mommy's Little Helper's Healing Hand and Body Cream my hands were supple and soft. I used it a couple times each day for the next couple days and saw marked improvement in my skin, even after washing a whole sink full of dishes! I may never go back to store brand lotion ever again!

GingerlyDressed says: Lovely hand cream! I love the scent, it's not too overpowering, yet lingers in a subtle way. A little greasy when first applied, but you'll notice you don't need to re-apply lots of times throughout the day. The oils settle in to give you a nice soft, moisturized feeling all day. And, even better, when we purchase we are supporting a military family, and a hard-working mother! That is worth the purchase in itself!

EllaBearBowtique says: A little bit of this goes such a long way! I truly love the smell and it keeps my hands super soft and moisturized for so long. Not only is it great on hands that are dried out but feet and heels as well. I started using it on my feet as soon as the weather turned colder and it has worked wonders for me.

Ali of Designs Etcetera says: I have used this for some time now. Sometimes once a day, sometimes twice a day. I like the way it makes my hands feel, smooth and silky. It is a little greasy at first but if you rub it in a bit more it will not be greasy for long. It also leaves a nice shine on my hands. I will definitely continue to use this through the winter.

I was asked by a friend HomemadeZen about it spoiling. Here is our discussion:
"Mommy, nice new item! Just wondering, does the cream spoil easily since it is all natural? Creams in an open jar usually goes bad pretty quickly in my experience (starting to smell funky)."
My response:
"Zen, I've kept my personal stash in an open ramekin for the past month and had no issues as of yet. I don't know how long it might take to spoil, but being left in the bathroom for a month with the steam, etc and it's still just as good as day one."

The container pictured is a 2 oz. and will be sold for $5 plus shipping. Each container will be labeled with the Mommy's Little Helper label as well as the basic product description. All of the hand creams are sealed with an inner seal for your protection as well as shrink wrapped.

Basic Ingredients: Soybean Oil, Cottonseed Oil, Bees Wax, Almond Oil, Spearmint and Lavender Essential Oils.

This product is set for release in my shops on both etsy and Hyena Cart on November 10th. I will take pre-orders (which is helpful to know how much product to make and have ready to ship on the release date). Please contact me at Mommy's Little Helper to place a pre-order.

Please note that these responses have only been edited for grammar and spelling, not content!

DON'T FORGET TO FALL BACK TONIGHT

2008-11-01T23:02:00.002-04:00

Tonight is the night, don't forget to
set your clocks back one hour tonight!

Scrumptious Saturday, revisited!

2008-11-01T12:01:00.001-04:00

OK, so I know its been a while since I've done a Scrumptious Saturday Recipe post. Its not that I've stopped cooking, I have even been taking pictures once in a while as I make a meal. I just haven't taken the time to post any in a while. Here is one that is super easy and can be mixed up in so many different ways. Without further ado:

Tortilla Soup with Home Made Tortilla Chips.

Fist you'll need this Bear Creek brand Tortilla Soup mix. They have so many wonderful different soups, I recommend trying a few different ones. This is definitely one of our favorites. I added a can of diced tomatoes with chili's, some plain corn and I made up a batch of taco seasoning meant for ground beef. I added 2 large cans of chicken to that and let it simmer for a bit to soak up the seasoning. So, simply follow the directions on the soup bag which is to boil 8 cups of water and add the soup mix. I add the tomatoes and corn as soon as I add the mix, but let the chicken simmer a bit while the soup thickens up.

To make the handmade tortilla chips the directions are on the soup package (I never said this was an original recipe). Just cut the tortillas into strips and drop them into a pan where you've heated about 1/2" deep of oil. Cook them ( I like to flip them personally) and then drain. I normally use a paper towel but found that we were out of them so I simply put a pie cooling rack on a plate and the oils just dripped down to the plate. I think this was better since it wasn't sitting in its own oil AND I didn't have to waste paper towels.

So once the soup has thickened add the chicken / taco seasoning and stir it well. Serve it with you choice of additions. We used sour cream and lots of shredded cheese, but guacamole is a good choice too. Enjoy!

Twitter?

2008-10-31T22:59:00.003-04:00

OK, I'm officially signed up with Twitter. I'm still figuring this out so if anyone has any advice please leave it in the comments. You can find me on Twitter at 1MaddieAndMommy (same as here). And a couple pictures for good measure...

In the sunflowers before the Pumpkin Patch and Halloween Costumes. She was a cowgirl and her best friend was a horse. Totally unplanned too!

And Yet Again!

2008-10-31T13:44:00.005-04:00

This time though its Maddie & ME, children's handcrafted couture! It is a lovely interview on Izzy-IT which is a site dedicated to introducing etsy shops. If you leave a comment you will then be in the drawing for a feature of your own! Please check it out and enjoy.

WOW! I've Been Featured Again!

2008-10-30T13:41:00.008-04:00

Can you believe it? I have been featured again. This time on Lucky Girl Trading Company - Make Every Day Your Lucky Day!
She has done a fabulous feature on my 2 in 1 loofah and my Cinnamon - Irish Oatmeal Soap.

She has also put my We 3 Kings Plus on her wish list so if any of you are wondering what to get her for a gift, it seems that would be a good choice. Also if you read her feature and the comments you'll find a promo code in there to get a discount in Mommy's Little Helper.

Thanks to all my loyal readers and customers,
"Mommy" of Mommy's Little Helper

I've Been Featured!

2008-10-24T11:06:00.005-04:00

I've been featured on
America's Handmade Homefront!

Please take a minute to read the wonderful interview that the host has put together, it looks really nice!
As for the product release, it will be around noon today in both etsy and Hyena Cart. Thanks to all my faithful customers! Today only use Promo Code RD1010 to get 10% off your purchase of Mommy's Little Helper After Shave Tonic.

Product Release!

2008-10-23T19:03:00.009-04:00

Anticipated Release Date: 10/24/08
According to the poll I put up; you, my faithful customers and viewers, wanted to see the Lip Balm first, then the After Shave and finally the massage oils. Since the Lip Balms have been listed in my shops on both etsy and on Hyena Cart we have the After Shave Tonic coming up next!

I've shown the loofah soap with it because for best results one should always exfoliate the skin before shaving. The After Shave Tonic is available in 2 oz spritz bottles. After years of trial and error I've decided that the spritz is the best way to apply this After Shave Tonic. It takes about 3 - 4 spritzes per leg for a woman and for the man less. This is one of the products that the old expression "a little bit goes a long way" really hold true. It is available in small quantities since it takes over 2 weeks to produce 16 fluid ounces and THAT is part of why it works so well. I can't speed the process up or change the ratio. If its unavailable when you're looking for some, contact me and I'll let you know when the next batch will be ready.

I sent out some samples to some of my friends and got some fabulous and honest feedback. Here is what they had to say:
TulipTreeBaby: I really love how this has made my skin well-moisturized and bump-free. It is easy to apply and it has a lighter, cleaner feel than using an actual lotion after shaving. My only wish would be to have it in a pure lavender scent because the sage is a bit strong for my "morning nose." It is not an unpleasant scent, but I just have a very sensitive nose. I still like it well enough that I would probably just avoid using it in the morning and enjoy it any other time.

ME: This is a product I've used for over 5 years, so it was really a no brainer that I want to share it with you. What I like most is that although it isn't flowery smelling it also doesn't smell like that blue stuff that my husband used to use. It is truly gender neutral and when I have it in the house my husband would much rather use my version than the commercially produced one.
** I'm waiting on two other's to send in their feedback. I will update the information as I receive it.

Please Vote!

2008-10-21T20:31:00.005-04:00

If not for me c'est la vie, but please take a minute and visit the Homefront Team Site and cast your vote for your favorite item in the challenge. The directions are to leave a comment with your favorite item / esty shop name and that will cast your vote. I have entered an item from each of my shops, but there are so many great ones to see. Thanks for your support - each and every member of this team is a military spouse / family member.

The Cabinet - Almost Done

2008-10-14T23:21:00.004-04:00

Well its not totally complete, but nothing ever is with me. Here it is as it currently stands in the shop Gingerly Dressed. I'm rather proud of this one and will get the final FINAL pictures up when its DONE. If you know my daughter at all, you know that if a camera is in use she MUST be in front of it. So here she is posing with my stocked Mommy's Little Helper display cabinet!

Display Cabinet - A Work in Progress Part II

2008-10-13T17:55:00.004-04:00

OK, so I discovered that if I was going to remove the shelves and try to paint them a different color I should have done that BEFORE I put 2-3 coats of primer on it. The shelves would unscrew, but wouldn't budge otherwise. I put the screws back in and decided that the shelves didn't need to be a different color after all.
I also decided to forgo the stencil idea. Great idea, wrong "artist." After talking to my mom, who IS the artist in the family I decided that I do NOT have the patience to do the stencil idea. Instead I am going to print out my avatar / logo and and put that in the windows of the cabinet doors. Those will be full of stock eventually anyway so I don't want people to see my back stock (read mess).
When I get it placed and all nicely stocked I will post a final picture, but for now this is the ALMOST finished product.

Display Cabinet - A Work in Progress!

2008-10-12T17:00:00.007-04:00

Literately this IS a work in progress. As of right now I am only 1/3 finished so I decided to blog about it while I let the paint dry.
So, last week at Gingerly Dressed I was talking to my friend Ginger and asked her why one of her vendors did SO well while the rest of us are along the mediocre lines. Her response was enlightening and so I thought I'd share it with everyone.

First, she said Molly has all her own displays, they are similar in color scheme and design no matter what shop you go in, people KNOW its a *Molly Said* product.

Second, she told me Molly's philosophy about keeping things stocked. I've been SO used to the internet way of only stocking things one at a time that I wasn't showing full stock there. It looked like slim pickings and who wants to purchase a product when there isn't a large variety? Ginger tells me that Molly's stocking philosophy is let them decide "which one do I want?", not "do I want one?" Ah HA! So, as you can tell, Molly is the one who is making all the profits while I am making sales, but not lots.

So here is the beginnings of the cabinet, how I found it and the current status of it:

Yesterday, before going to the Foothills Fall Festival (where incidentally Molly's booth is packed with product AND customers) we stopped by a garage sale on my road. I walked up to them and said I know exactly what I need BUT have no idea what it is! They looked at me a little strange, but once I explained the dilemma of needing a display cabinet and not knowing if I need a wall hanging shelf unit, a free standing unit, or what they pointed me toward the other side of the driveway where the furniture is.

TA DA! It was like a beam of light came down from the heavens and shown right on this old stereo cabinet! It had been marked 50% off already and she went down even more. For $22 I got a wood cabinet that was going to get a coat of paint and be ready to go... or so I thought.
It started this dark mahogany wood color (as pictured on the still unpainted door), I picked up a can of kilz (paint primer) and a long handled yet narrow roller. I knew this was going to not be a spray paint job as the shelves were too narrow to spray paint so with Maddie's "help" we started the fist coat of paint.
After I took her to visit with her grandparents I did a second coat thinking "OK, that should do it." And now I've put three coats of KILZ primer on and am thinking that I need to go get some semi-gloss white to put over the primer.

I plan to do the cabinet doors in the same shade green that "Mommy's" shirt is in my logo and put something to block the windows out (maybe a large print pic from each logo on the back of the glass) and keep the doors closed with that area as back stock.

So, after the third coat I was sitting on my bum looking up and noticed that the shelves were screwed in and could have / make that CAN be removed. I am now thinking of removing those shelves (when the third coat is dry) and painting them the same green as the cabinet doors to make it more interesting. Also, I plan to ATTEMPT to stencil the shop name "Mommy's Little Helper" on the sides of the entire unit. Did I mention that I am very creative, but NOT so artistic? We'll see how this goes and I will post the final pictures of it when its complete as well as the ones of it in the shop and fully stocked. For now, back to it!

The Bee's Knees

2008-10-07T00:24:00.004-04:00

Just ONE of my lip balm flavors I'm introducing. The Bee's Knees is Honey flavored lip balm. It is made with Bee's Wax, Honey (both from a local apiary), Coconut Oil, Almond Oil, and Coco Butter all Organic. The other flavors will be introduced one at a time. For now, please welcome "The Bee's Knees"!

I have sent out several samples to some of my recent customers and you are welcome to leave comments. Thanks!

NOTE this is NOT vegan since it includes Honey and Bee's Wax, sorry.

Help an Angel in Need Please!

2008-10-01T22:01:00.005-04:00

WE NEED YOUR HELP! PLEASE READ!
Someone was rude enough to leave antifreeze in water dishes and food bowls at our facility on September 23, 2008. Antifreeze was also placed in our feeding areas located in our forest preserve.

AWBAR- Abandoned Wild Babies Animal Rescue has already lost one raccoon to antifreeze poisoning. Also wild raccoons are coming back dying in our driveway and yard.

So far 2 of them have been poisoned and 4 others are showing signs of poisoning. Every day they receive 1000 cc of lactated ringer solution (LRS bags) which is a Sub Q IV that is placed under the skin to help flush out the poisons. Also they are receiving shots of antibiotics to help fight any illness since they are so weak.

AWBAR needs your help, our vet bill has already reached to almost $500.00. By making a purchase off our etsy shop www.awbar.etsy.com 100% will go to the vet bills and help the babies get better.

A group of AWBAR volunteers have posted Reward signs in our area leading to the capture and arrest of the individual(s) that have done this to our shelter.

If you click on one of the photos, you will see all of them in a slide show. In the photos, George the raccoon is one of the raccoons that have been poisoned.
http://foowahu.deviantart.com/art/AWBAR-George-goes-to-the-vet-99070852

Thanks everyone for your continued support through this tough time.

Remember 100% of all sales from our AWBAR shop will help pay for the vet bills, and help us raise and release wildlife!

Amanda

www.awbar.com
www.awbar.etsy.com Posted at 12:04 pm, September 30 2008 EST -

SO, LEAVE A COMMENT IF YOU'D LIKE, BUT MORE IMPORTANTLY PLEASE GO TO THEIR WEBSITE AND SUPPORT THEM BY PURCHASING PRODUCTS!

GRAND OPENING OF AMERICA'S HANDMADE HOMEFRONT

2008-10-01T10:58:00.003-04:00

America's Handmade Homefront is a "Congo" of shops on Hyena Cart! We are having our grand opening today at 3:00 pm. Many of the shops will have SSC's or Special Stocking Codes which can be found in our respective etsy shops and redeemed in the Hyena Cart "Congo." Please take some time and check out Maddie & ME as there are some dresses listed in AHH that are not available elsewhere, and Mommy's Little Helper who has more bulk listings available on AHH. Also, please take some time and visit our website, America's Handmade Homefront and be sure to mark us as a favorite! You can click on any of the links embedded in this message OR simply click on Betsy Ross on the top left corner of my blog!

Come see us and wish us luck!

Product Review

2008-09-19T23:09:00.005-04:00

Dunkelberg Designs

Deb Dunk as we call her on the Homefront noticed that I mentioned I was having problems with my pictures. The models looked great, the rest of the photo quality was not comparable to my shop standards. She offered her Professional Photo Editing Service and I couldn't be happier. She is worth every penny for sure! Here are some of the things she's done; before and after shots.

I highly recommend Deb for any Graphic Artistry Work! Consider this a personal and business reference! Thank a million Deb, you gave me my time back at the sewing room doing what I love most. Creating fun new clothing for kids.

Children's Book Review... of a Sort

2008-09-17T18:45:00.004-04:00

So this is a bit different than the book reviews that I have been doing. We went to a Children's Yoga Story Time presented by Yoga Instructor Kristina Scott and our local Library. It was SO neat and I was so pleased to see how well my high energy child responded to the calmer side of Yoga.

Kristina started them out by doing lots of wiggling and shaking. This helped most of the Preschoolers to get all the wiggles out before the real Yoga and Story Started.

Then the Story, Rooster's Off to See The World started. The story had many animal characters in it. Every time she read an animal all the kids would act out how that animal would act. This kept them very actively involved in the story.

Rooster, Cat, Toad, Turtle, Fish... they got to act them all out one by one. The basic story line is that Rooster went off to see the world and as he traveled he met each of the animals who joined his journey. In the end each one decided that home really was where they wanted to be.

Kristina, then had the kids all calm back down and end the story on a quasi meditative note.

I was more than impressed with this and can't wait for the next one she does in October.

Scrumptious Saturday #12

2008-08-30T20:54:00.011-04:00

Irish Stew

Please don't be mistaken, this is NOT my original recipe, but I am so thankful I tried it. The recipe is taken exactly as printed in the October 2008 issue of of Cuisine at Home.
"Traditional Irish Stew recipes are usually made with lamb, and lamb stew meat works great here. But if you're not a fan, feel free to substitute beef instead."

Makes 8 cups; Total time: about 1 1/2 hours

2 lb. lamb or beef stew meat, cut into 1 1/2" cubes, seasoned with salt and pepper
1/4 cup of olive oil, divided
2 cups onion, diced
2 T. garlic, minced
2 T. tomato paste
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup dark beer (Guinness is best choice)
2 cups beef broth
2 cups chicken broth
2 fresh thyme sprigs
2 lb. Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 cup carrot, chopped
1 cup frozen peas (keep them frozen until ready to use to prevent soggy peas)
1 cup savoy cabbage, sliced
salt and pepper to taste

Brown lamb in 2T. oil in a large pot over medium - high heat, 8 minutes. Transfer lamb to a bowl and set aside; reduce heat to medium.

I got the lambs meat, carrots and garlic at the local farmers market. The lambs meat came from Laurel Creek Meat, check them out. Boy does it make a difference!

Add 2 T. oil and onion to the pot and sweat, covered, until soft, 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and tomato paste, and cook until paste darkens, 2 minutes. Add flour, stir to coat and cook, 1 minute.

Deglaze with beer, scraping any bits from the bottom of the pot, then add both broths, lamb meat and its juices, and thyme. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 1 hour.

Stir in potatoes and carrot(s). Cook until potatoes are tender, 12 minutes, then add peas, cabbage, salt and pepper; simmer 5 minutes.

So the recipe calls for being served with Mini Cheddar Scones and to be honest I didn't have the drive to tackle that one with the stew. So instead I got a package of Bisquick Brand 3 Cheese Biscuit Mix, and instead of 1/2 cup of water as it called for I used a 1/2 cup of Rachael Ray's Chicken Stock, and added in some more fresh thyme (stripped the leaved off the stem). It was really good, I wish I could have smell-o-vision for you all to know how good this whole meal smelled.

SCRUFFY FAMILY PHOTO

2008-08-27T22:17:00.003-04:00

All Scruffies are up for adoption, each one needs a new home with someone to love and care for him or her.

Each is a hand altered bear. He / she is 6" tall sitting and fits nicely into any little loving arms for hugging and snuggling. I've added lavender to the stuffing in a separate cotton bag and each bear will have a special heart sewn onto him or her.

Each Scruffy will have adoption papers and an individual story. Whats so great about this Beddy Bye Bear? Lavender is long reputed to help calm the nerves and allow sleep to come more peacefully. My daughter inspired this idea when she started sleeping with her boo boo bag every night. I decided that we needed something a little more fluffy to fill that role and the first Scruffy was born.

These are pretty much listed as is. If you have a special request please contact me and I'll see what we can come up with. If the desire arises I can see if Scruffy has larger brothers and sisters for adoption.

**eyes are not stitched, but are permanently affixed plastic**

Personalized Tote Bag

2008-08-26T21:01:00.009-04:00

So for this year at Preschool the teacher prefers to have a tote bag as opposed to a back pack. She says they fit better in the cubby's which makes perfect sense to me. So in an effort to make something nice and personalize it here is what we did.

1) Start with a commercial ready to decorate tote bag for $2.47 and if you plan it well you can get it for 50% off (as we did).

2) Go to a website with free coloring pages and select your picture. We used Free Coloring Pages and selected one from the sports section looking for something that resembled a gymnast.

3) Right click on the picture and "copy image" open Paint from your desktop and paste the image into the paint program. Utilize the paint program to "color" your picture as you choose.

4) Cut picture from Paint and put it into a Word Processing program to add text as desired.

5) Remember to go into the Print Properties and be sure to print your work in Mirror Image (yes I made the mistake AGAIN and had to reprint). Print it onto a iron on T-shirt transfer, iron it onto the bag.

6) Decorate as much as your heart desires. We are not finished as this one will need to be jeweled and trimmed in some lavish trim of some sort. That is for after school tomorrow!

Hope you and your kids have as much fun as we did!

When we finish it tomorrow I'll post the last pictures. Look for them sometime in the late afternoon.

Treasury Made it to the Front Page

2008-08-16T00:52:00.003-04:00

Titled: Another Gold for Aqua Man - Rock on Michael Phelps!

TAG YOU'RE IT!

2008-08-12T15:36:00.004-04:00

I've been tagged! Remember playing tag as a child..."You're It." Well this past week I was "tagged"; maybe you will want to play too.

I was tagged by Teresa of MayRae, Life Craft Love

Here are the rules:

1) Link to the person who tagged you

2) Post the rules on your blog (this is what you are now reading)

3) Write 6 random things about yourself (see below)

4) Tag 6 people at the end of your post and link to them (This is only a game)

5) Let each person know they have been tagged and leave a comment on their blog

6) Let the tagger know when your entry is up

Random items about me...

1) I was raised in Orlando, FL.

2) I am very motivated and spend very little time doing "nothing."

3) I have written over 200 poems.

4) I had my first business idea for the bath and body products over 5 years ago, but the Children's Clothing line came to fruition first.

5) I work for my mom's Interior Designs business in addition to having two of my own businesses.

6) My best friend and I have been friends for 24 years now and can step into each other's house after years apart and know where everything will be (even if we haven't been to that new house before).

People I’m tagging:

1) Beth of Beth's Jewelry, Art & More

2) Jessi of Two Seaside Babies

3) Emily of Ella Bear Bowtique

4) Jennifer of Monster Bug Blankets

5) Terry Ann of Just So TerryAnn

6) Liz of Fray Baby

You're It!

Scrumptious Saturday #11

2008-08-09T19:45:00.007-04:00

Artichoke Soup for Two

To begin with, let me be sure to tell my loyal readers that I had NO intention of doing 2 soups in a row and especially not in August. I had been wanting to try the Chowder (last weeks recipe) for several weeks and that was my first opportunity. Then this week my poor husband had to have some oral surgery done just yesterday so I decided to make this soup for him tonight as it is one of our favorites. This soup is wonderful as a beginning course, with salad, bread or baked potato or just on its own as we had it tonight.

Ingredients:
2 Tbsp. butter
1 clove garlic, minced*
1/3 cup chopped onion
2 Tbsp. flour
1 can (14 ounces) of artichoke hearts, rinsed, drained and chopped.
2 cups of chicken broth (I use one can - it's only 1.5 ounces short and works just fine)
1 Tbsp dry white wine (I didn't have any, so I substituted white vinegar - it works)
2 Tbsp chopped parsley (I used dried, so cut the amount in half)
1.2 cup of heavy cream (this time I substituted plain fat free Yogurt and it tasted great)
salt and white pepper
* for directions on how to mince garlic see my previous post #2 for directions

Melt the butter in a large saucepan. Add the garlic and onion and cook three minutes. Stir in flour. Cook stirring constantly, for 2 minutes. Add the artichoke hearts, chicken broth, "wine" and parsley. Bring the soup to a boil and reduce the heat to low. Cook stirring frequently, for 5 minutes.

Puree the soup in a blender and return it to the pan. Blend in the "cream" and season to taste with salt and pepper. Heat until very HOT, but do not boil. Divide into two soup bowls and serve immediately.

Please note that the Onions came from a local organic farmer Mint Road Farms and the garlic too was from our Farmers Market

Scrumptious Saturday #10

2008-08-02T19:11:00.020-04:00

Lobster (or Shrimp) & Corn Chowder

This Recipe is from Martha Stewart Living (hope she doesn't mind). I have never tried one of her recipes so this is a first. Since she is the Queen of All Things About the Home, I figure she probably has some good ideas, but first thing is first; the first paragraph says "Feel Free to substitute three pounds of shell-on shrimp for the lobsters." WHEW! In East Tennessee Lobster is 17.88 a pound (plus we pay tax on food), each lobster is 2 pounds minimum and I needed TWO!?! $75 was a little out of my budget for a Chowder, so I opted to substitute the Shrimp. Maybe one day we can try the Lobster. The corn, zucchini and summer squash all came from one of my Homefront Team Members, Smokey Mountain Scents garden. Thanks Tee, the produce has been fabulous!

Ingredients

Serves 6 to 8

8 cups water
2 lobsters (1 1/2 pounds each) - please see info for substituting shrimp
1 1/2 ounces (3 tablespoons) unsalted butter
1 large leek, halved lengthwise and rinsed well, 1/2 coarsely chopped and 1/2 thinly sliced crosswise
3 cups fresh corn kernels (from 3 ears), cobs reserved and halved crosswise
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 small zucchini, cut into 1/4-inch dice
1 small summer squash, halved lengthwise and sliced crosswise into 1/4-inch slices
Coarse salt
1 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, for garnish

Directions

Cook shrimp in step 1 until pink and cooked through, three to five minutes. Remove and reserve the shells, and continue with step 2.

1) Bring water to a boil in a 12-quart stockpot. Add lobsters, cover, and cook 13 to 15 minutes. Set a colander in a large bowl. Working over colander, snip the tip of each lobster claw to release juices into bowl. Separate lobster meat from shells, and cut into bite-size pieces. Reserve meat and shells separately. Strain cooking liquid through a fine sieve lined with cheesecloth into bowl with lobster juices.

2) Using the same stockpot, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium-high heat. Add chopped leek, corncobs, and reserved lobster shells. Cook, stirring, for 4 minutes. Add reserved lobster liquid, and simmer gently for 20 minutes. Strain through a cheesecloth-lined sieve. Discard solids.

3) Puree 1 cup lobster broth with 1 cup corn kernels. Melt remaining 1 tablespoon butter in a large pot over low heat. Add sliced leek, and cook for 2 minutes. Sprinkle in flour, and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Stir in pureed corn mixture, and cook, stirring often, until broth thickens, about 2 minutes.

4) Add remaining lobster broth, raise heat, and simmer. Add zucchini, summer squash, and remaining 2 cups corn, and cook until squashes are tender, about 2 minutes.

5) Stir in reserved lobster meat, and heat until warmed through, about 1 minute. Season with salt, and garnish with basil. Serve immediately.

Green Girls Postponed

2008-07-31T20:11:00.002-04:00

Sorry folks. I am going to wait for my poll to be completed before I resume my weekly posts which includes the Children's Book Review and Green Girls. Never fear - they WILL return and the recipe will stay on every week even during this transition period. Thank you for your understanding.
We have only one Earth, let’s treat it with respect so our children can learn from our example and have a great place to raise their children

Children's Book Review

2008-07-28T23:51:00.007-04:00

The Children's Book Review is NOT James and the Giant Peach, but it will be postponed.
I am considering doing it bi-weekly. Many apologies, instead please enjoy this wonderful box of Peaches that Smokey Mountain Scents gave me! Too bad it isn't scratch and sniff!

Superhero Tips from the "Green Girls" - Saving the Planet One Lightbulb at a Time!

2008-07-24T18:50:00.011-04:00

Well I am going to tie this weeks Green Girls Post in with some of the products I produce for Mommy's Little Helper. I will be pulling quotes from The Green Book and showing how I produce Green Products.
Bath Salt / Bubble Bath - If you buy bath salts or bubble bath, try to buy concentrated varieties. ... If you buy a sixteen ounce plastic bottle of bubble bath every other month and switched to a more concentrated version, you could save about one-quarter pound of plastic and $10 to $20 per year or more. If one in one hundred households decreased its bubble bath purchases in this way, the savings would total 250,000 pounds of plastic. This much plastic could build a wading pool the size of Wrigley Field.
Bath Salt's and Milk Bath from Mommy's Little Helper - If you purchase Bath Salts or Milk Bath from Mommy's Little Helper, you will save 100% of the plastic because I prefer to store in glass and my milk bath / bath salts are packaged in wax paper or glass for shipping. Also, my bath salts are made with 100% dead sea salt, Epsom salt and essential oils which are all natural. As for the milk bath, add a measure of powdered milk and again its all natural. Good for the muscles, good for the skin, good for the environment.
Shaving Gel / Foam - If you choose to buy shaving gel (as opposed to just using soap or body wash), avoid the aerosol variety. Although aerosol chemical no longer deplete the ozone layer, those chemicals have been replaced by petroleum propellants that are discharged with the foamy product you rub onto your skin. If your household refuses to buy aerosol shaving products, you could reduce your direct consumption of petroleum by nearly one-half pound per year. If 10 percent of households chose alternatives to aerosol shave gels and foams, the petroleum savings from the propellants alone could light 270,000 households for a month.
Salt Scrub - new product recently tested by some of my homefront team mates has proven excellent replacement for shaving gel...
"TuliptreeBaby says: OK, I just want to say that Maddie/Mommy is my new BFF! I just took a bath and used some of her new salt scrub and it is AWESOME! Because of the excellent exfoliating and moisturizing qualities I didn't get a single nick or burn when I shaved, and not a bit of shaving cream! That is so rare for me because of sensitive skin. I am sold on it! Thank you Maddie!"
Soap - Use bars of soap versus liquid wash. It's less expensive, and it saves packaging waste. The average bar of soap lasts for about twenty showers, where as a sixteen-ounce bottle of body wash lasts an average of eighty showers. But body wash costs on average more than four times as much as soap. If every U.S. household replaced a bottle of body wash with a bar of soap, roughly 2.5 million pounds of plastic containers could be diverted from the waste stream.
Soap - The soap produced by Mommy's Little Helper is made with products as natural as I can find (and still have it be soap). I use essential oils and most of my packaging is more along the lines of fabric wrappings though occasionally I use plastic baggies to keep the scents from several different soaps mixing.
Boo Boo Bags - I have no equivalent in the Green Book for these, but these are made of reassigned fabrics. I call them reassigned because they aren't really recycled. To me recycled denotes having been used, and these were once fabric book samples that were to be discarded. I kept them out of the land full and gave them a new life as Boo Boo Bags.

My paper is recycled, as is much of my packaging. I am an active participant in recycling everything we can and have reduced our garbage output to no more than 2.5 thirteen gallon bags per week. That is less than 1 bag per person in our house hold per week. It isn't easy being green, but it sure is worth it!

As always I strive to produce products that are good for Mother Earth, good for her children (that's us) and leave as small of an eco foot print as possible. With those products that require plastic such as the Monster Away Spray, Procrastination Away Spray, Lavender Linen Spray and the new line of Salt Scrubs; I offer a hefty discount on refills if you pay the shipping I will refill the product for half the original cost.

We have only one Earth, let’s treat it with respect so our children can learn from our example and have a great place to raise their children

Set of Three Nightgowns

2008-07-24T10:32:00.003-04:00

I just had to show these. I think this set of 3 nightgowns for sisters turned out just beautiful. They are shipping out today to head all the way across country and will find a new home in Alaska. Hope the girls love them as much as I do.