Mommy Made

Bathrobe #2

2010-03-25T09:49:00.001-04:00

I finished Vivian's robe a few weeks ago but didn't have a good picture to post. The jury is still out on wheather or not I have a "good" picture - can't really see the robe, but damn my kids are cute!

Who would have thought bathrobes could be so exciting. They both love wearing them around after bathtime.

The different colors on Vivian's does come in handy when trying to figure out whos is whos.

These where made using a Burda pattern and I have to say I wasn't impressed with the collar directions for this pattern.

Ok NOW to finish those pajamas!

Bathrobe

2010-02-20T01:20:00.000-05:00

Thanks to the a large northern shipment of hand me down clothes, Ava's drawers are bursting! So much so I find myself not wanting to make clothes for her, because she really doesn't need anymore at this point. So its time to try new things. Last week it was PJs, now this week a bathrobe.

Ava always complains she is freezing during the time she leaves the bathtub to getting into her Pj's, well NOT anymore. She is, and I quote, "Warm and Cozy." She got a big kick of having a robe like mommy and grandma. She even told me she wanted to wear it in the morning over her pj's, but this has yet to happen.

I just started cutting out the fabric to make one for Vivian, but I ended up being 2 sleeves short on the pink terry. I might have to get creative with Vivian's robe. We shall see.

Nighty Night

2010-02-12T21:02:00.000-05:00

Quality PJs are hard to come by, so I had to take matters into my own hands! This is how we do flannel pjs in Florida, sleeveless and shorts! Ava is very pleased with her new jammies, she said she feels like she is wearing a blanket, however, there has been no request to hop into bed any earlier than normal.

I'm proud to report that with a little peace and quiet I was able to complete these in a few hours!

Christmas Dresses

2009-12-24T01:24:00.000-05:00

I might not be completely finished with my shopping and I did slack on the Christmas cards this year, Merry Christmas by the way. But I did make these dresses for the girls!! Which was more enjoyable than addressing envelopes.

One Day One Dress

2009-11-30T00:16:00.001-05:00

I'm really into Corduroy this season, its just so darn cute! I was able to get this whole dress completed in one day. Vivian took a wonderful and LONG nap and Ava was allowed to watch as much tv as she wanted, and thankfully she wanted to watch a good bit. Ava gets really excited when she knows I'm making her someone so its very motivating to finish. I was going to skip the pocket, but my fashion design, Ava wasn't going to let that happen!

Fall in Florida

2009-11-05T21:09:00.000-05:00

We don't exactly get Fall in Florida, right now the temps are still in the 80s. I do miss the Northest Fall weather and the cute fashions that accompany. Courdoroy is one of my favorite fabrics but sadly, I rarely get to wear it down here. This dress is my version of Fall in Florida. Cute Cord fabric in a sleeveless dress which can be worn alone on warmer days or layered under a shirt and legging for those crisp 65 degree days, we sometimes get.

Snow White

2009-09-12T23:09:00.001-04:00

I'm still around, although I have been totally neglating this blog. One of my most recent project was Ava's Snow White costume. It's technically her Halloween costume, however, we where able to get some extra use out of it during our vacation to Disneyworld. Ava had a blast walking around the Magic Kingdom in her princess gear. At one point she said, "Mommy, I want to walk around in my dress." Apparently her stroller isn't the horse and carriage she had in mind.

I hope to be posting more projects for the fall! I also have to figure of what Vivian is going to be for Halloween.

Working

2009-08-21T22:04:00.003-04:00

No, I haven't abandon the blog. I have been working :)

I had an order for 2 dresses through Etsy. I'm only finished one and I have to get working on the second one as soon as I post this. I am just thrilled with the outcome of the dress. Its made from the super soft Minky material, which is super cozy but something I don't get to work with very often living in a semi tropical climate, so it was a treat to experiment with a new textile. My customer wanted me to use the pink dress as a sample of what she wanted for her daughter, I think I got it pretty close.

Happy 3rd Birthday Ava!!

2009-07-28T22:37:00.000-04:00

I'm sure every year I will say this, but I CAN'T believe Ava is 3! Thankfully, I'm the same age as I was when I had her. I assume now that she is no longer in the terrible twos I can say goodbye to the tantrums and mood swings that rival any Hollywood diva.

We celebrated Ava's birthday with a trip to a local waterpark, which she loved. Then that night we had her 2 best friends over for pizza and cake. It was a simple and great day.

Craft Workshop

2009-07-21T23:01:00.007-04:00

One day I had the insane idea of hosting a craft workshop playdate at my house with my mom's group. In this crazy fit of creativity, the moms of girls where making tutus and the moms of boys where making superhero capes.

Well, you know where this is going. Today this nutty idea was implemented and can be best described and organized chaos. I think I burned 600 calories juggling and assisting everyone and their projects but it was incredibly fun and I loved every second of it.

I have to say, the members of my mom's group are VERY creativity. The tutus and capes turned out great! And it was nothing short of a miricle that no child go a hold of the various pairs of scissors and 450 pins being passed around today. Everyone left happy and with all their fingers and I was EXHAUSTED!

Tutus

Super Hero Capes

Aftermath!

Week in Review

2009-07-19T21:42:00.003-04:00

Bad blogger- I know!!

This week kind of got away from me. Highlights, my sister's college roommate Robyn had a baby girl on Monday, my dad's birthday, Welcome Raelle!! Saturday, I attended a lovely baby shower for my friend Lisa thrown by my pal Erin. Erin is very creative and did a fabulous job!! I need to recruit her for my next shindig!

Lowlight- We had a storm on Tuesday which, thanks to a tree, caused damage to some power lines and our house along with 44 others lost power!! You might not think that is too bad, but it was probably 95 degrees with 100% humidity that day. The house was unbarable until we left. These things never seem to happen on days Bill has off from work. The power went out around 3:30 pm and did not come back until 9pm. The girls are I just roamed the streets until it came back. Ok maybe not the streets but we wandered to various air conditioned locations.

Here are some various items I made this week:

Pink Florida Gator's Bib
Pink Florida Gator's Boppy Cover
Cake Plate tutu

Cupcake Tutu

2009-07-12T11:42:00.005-04:00

Last week I was asked to make some adorable tutus, but to my surprise they where for cupcakes! Dressing a cupcake in a tutu makes me smile, what a cute idea!! Needless to say when Ava saw my "test" cupcake dressed in a tutu for my photo shoot she was BEGGING for it!!

If you are having a party or shower think about ordering some cupcake tutus, they making cupcakes extra fun!

Look to the Left

2009-07-09T00:05:00.002-04:00

Look to the left, see where it says, Cute Hair Bows, Look No Further. Yes,well good. I purchased some adorable hair bows from my new Etsy friend CowlickCutie. Ava loves them and KEEPS them in her hair!! So I endorse CowlickCutie's hair bows and encourage you to buy buy buy. When you do so, you will be supporting a hard working, bow making, stay a home mom. Need I say more....

My Birthday

2009-07-05T23:20:00.000-04:00

Happy Birthday to ME!!

This has been a fun filled weekend and I'm nothing short of exhausted! Not too much sewing going on this weekend, but I'm waiting on a shipment of sport team fabric to work on a few baby items.

Here is a picture from today, hope you enjoy!

Class Canceled

2009-07-01T00:52:00.003-04:00

Sorry I have been slacking on the blog here and its WAY too late to blog right now, but I wanted to post something. The smocking class was canceled :( the teacher is out of town, but when did I find this out??? When I arrived all excited to smock and to spend 2 hours doing something unterupted by children. I was pretty pissed when they told me there was no classa since the store HAD my phone number and its a good 20 minutes from my house. UGH. The guy working there felt bad so he gave me a bunch of free stuff, yes I can be bought!

The teacher is still out of town, but this time they called me the day before. So maybe next week there will be class?? I'm beginning to wonder if there really is a class at this store.

Frills

2009-06-25T22:10:00.002-04:00

Here is what I have been working on this week, Vivian's overalls. I used an Ottobre pattern for inspiration but I added the frills on the back. I asked Bill for his opinion about the ruffles on the back, why I don't know, and he was against. As you can see I didn't listen to his fashion advice and I couldn't be happier with the outcome. This pattern didn't have snaps in the crotch, WHAT the heck! But I added some and I am sooooooooooo glad I did.

Smocking

2009-06-22T14:39:00.005-04:00

I signed up to take a Smocking class tomorrow afternoon! I am excited on many levels. For one, I think smocking has an adorable and classic look and once mastered I will be using it for all kinds of clothes which I will be posting in my Etsy store (see above link) and two, which might trump the first, I will be out of the house from 1pm to 3pm, longer if you factor in drive time.

If you don't know what smocking looks like here, are some samples (not my work).

I like it, BUT...

2009-06-18T10:44:00.003-04:00

I like it, BUT... is something I have heard countless times from moms when talking about kid's clothes. Some designs are SO cute but they lack something or have strange design aspects that are cause for complaint. It is obvious when I jumper (overalls) doesn't have snaps or buttons in the crotch it was designed by someone that has NEVER EVER changed a toddler's diaper- EVER! So diaper changers of the world- rejoice! My jumpers, which can be found soon (June 22nd) in my Etsy shop will have a snap crotch feature, no extra change.

Bloomers

2009-06-11T21:52:00.006-04:00

I have a million and one patterns and none of which include bloomers. I guess I can't really complain because they are not difficult to make but I think they should be included in the patterns for dresses for kids. I mean if you go to the trouble to make a dress do you really want it to be ruined with a pamper hanging out. So I vow to provide bloomer will all dresses!!

Just a reminder, You can find my new dresses along with their matching BLOOMERS, June 22nd at my Etsy store!

Inspiration

2009-06-10T23:37:00.004-04:00

If you recall this time last year I was eagerly waiting to see if Ava was selected to be on the cover of Parents Magazine (she wasn't). So this year when my June issue came and I saw a baby with a fake dad on the cover, I was reminded of my beef with Parent's mag which seems to be far from over. I do have to say, the cover baby is adorable this year, and the dress she is wearing is adorable as well. I like it so much I am doing a VERY similar one for my new line which will be featured on my Etsy site on June 22nd.

Coming Soon....... (in my own way)

Thought Process

2009-06-09T20:18:00.004-04:00

Last week I placed an order on http://www.fabric.com/ for some upcoming projects which will be featured on my Etsy shop. Per the tracking notification, Monday was the scheduled delivery date. So Monday came and I tracked the package online and waited, and tracked and waited, and tracked some more, until 6:30p.m. when the package FINALLY arrived. I ripped it open with excitement that would rival any Christmas morning and when I finally opened the package and saw the content I had NO idea what I was planning to make with the fabric now being spread and draped over Ava (by Ava).

Lesson learned, write down ALL my bright ideas. Not just the ones that I think will make me rich, famous, or better looking.

Montessori Placemat

2009-06-08T23:09:00.006-04:00

I stumpled upon this idea on a blog I happened to come across and I thought it was cute. I'm not an expert on applique by ANY means but I try. Ava's eyes lit up when she saw me putting this together. She knows when something is for her. She loved it and she was SO excited to sit down and have dinner, its a magical placemat!

Happy 1st Birthday Vivian!!

2009-06-08T18:12:00.003-04:00

Today Vivian turned ONE year old! I can hardly believe she is weeks or months away from chasing Ava around. With a new swingset (from Grandmom) and a bounce house from (Grandmother) we certainly don't lack motivation for her to further her mobility. Vivian was a late crawler, she would crawl or scoot to a toy and then stop and play with it and then on to the next toy never wondering far (loved it) but now she is all about roaming (don't like so much).

As much as I like having a baby in the house having a baby and a 2 year old wasn't my most favorite thing. I have actually been looking forward to having a 1 year old and a 3 year old for almost a year now. I'm certainly excited that I only have ONE child in diapers! YIPPPEE!!

On Saturday we celebrated Vivian's birthday with family and some friends for dinner and cake. A much smaller party than Ava had, but SO MUCH less work and expense and just as much fun. Vivian was SO MUCH more lady like with her cake, compared to Ava.

Someone Hearts Me

2009-06-03T21:04:00.003-04:00

I am so excited! Someone Hearts me! Some of you non-Etsy addicts are probably thinking, WTF is she talking about now, so allow me to explain. As previously mentioned, I started an Etsy store, and someone that I don't even know, bookmarked my site as a favorite! Made my day, hopefully I will make a sale soon.

Here is my Etsy store, still a work in progress:
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5721983

Etsy

2009-06-02T23:34:00.003-04:00

I haven't been posting lately because I am attempting to set up an Etsy store. It would be great to sell a few items to contribute to my fabric buying habit. There is stiff competition on this site because there are some many talented people selling their handmade goods.

For those who haven't heard of Etsy check it out, its a site for all handmade good. Its almost a little overwhelming.

I hope to officially launch my store front by June 15th so I have to get to work!

Gift

2009-05-28T21:16:00.004-04:00

This dress might look a bit familiar, I made the same pattern for Vivian not too long ago. I enjoyed this dress so much I decided to make one as a gift for a friend who recently had a baby. I just put the dress in the mail today, so the said recipient doesn't know the dress is coming, but I am pretty confident that either they don't read this blog enough to ruin the surprise, or they would assume the dress is for someone else. All these babies it could be anyone!

I hope the special girl I made this dress for enjoys it as much as Vivian does.

Up to Speed

2009-05-24T22:43:00.002-04:00

I can hardly believe its been 22 days since my last post, bad me. I could try to blame my lack of blogging on the fact that Bill's parents are visiting, but someone might point out the fact they have only been here since the 20th. Hardly a rock solid alibi.

So what have I been doing since my last post.
Where to begin:

We did 2 days and one night in Disney before our seasonal passes where blocked off.

Ava was housebroken, so no more diapers for one child!! YIPPEE! As her 3rd birthday approached I was getting nervous, so I knew I had to get her going (literally). She went cold turkey, I told her one morning, take off your diaper you are using the potty, no more pull ups. She was upset, and there where many accidents but she got it within a week we had one accident a day, and after that, no more accidents!!

Bill's parents came to visit and are in FL until Wed.

Projects: I have a bunch on my "to do" list. But I just completed a baby dress for a friend, its a repeat project, but its super cute. I will post pictures soon. My camera must be upset with my PC because they are choosing not to communicate tonight. I wonder which on will end up sleeping on the couch tonight?

Finally Something for Me!

2009-05-02T13:23:00.000-04:00

Well its finally finished. This is the dress I was working on before I went up north in April. I am done and wearing it today on this hot Florida day!

Ava's Request

2009-04-26T23:50:00.000-04:00

Now, I know I said I was going to make something for myself, but it still unfinished as I post this dress I made for Ava. Ava has been asking me for a yellow dress, not just because she likes yellow, she just thinks the girl on the pattern cover wearing a yellow dress is her.

This dress was very easy to make and I will be making it again, someday. As it turns out my children's dressers and closets are FILLED to the brim with clothes. NOT that I am buying anything, really, I'm not. During our visit up north I received a complete wardrobe from my aunt's daughter who since had a baby boy and not a baby girl doesn't see the need to store 72 Tupperware bins of girl clothes from seasons past.

So Ava, who doesn't grow like a weed has her current clothes and Courtney's size 3Ts. Viv has all the stuff Ava didn't destroy and some of Courtney's stuff as well. So if I make them more stuff, I will have to do mid-day wardrobe changes and I probably still wouldn't have to do laundry for 2 weeks.

I am so grateful for this problem and maybe NOW I can do somethings for me or some home decor items, or maybe gifts (be good everyone).

The Neverending Journey

2009-04-14T23:12:00.003-04:00

Today was by far one of the worst travel days I have ever had. Our day started before dawn, my alarm was set for 5:30am but I was up well before this thanks for Ava and Vivian who did not sleep well last night and only seem to want mommy in the middle of the night. So I think I started the day with a total of 3 hours of sleep.

Originally our flight was scheduled to take off at 9:50am but as soon as I saw the rain and fog I knew this wasn't going to happen. It would after noon before we took off on what would be a white knuckle ride. I don't know how both Ava and Vivian slept through all the turbulence but I was so close to freaking out. I had a death grip on the arm rest as Bill laughed at me. I mean if something happens holding on will not help.

So after the rockiest ride EVER, I was relieved to see us finally approaching Fort Lauderdale, and then circle and circle over the ocean because of thunderstorms which cleared all the ground crews and delayed any take offs and landings, hence another delay.

I really wish my camera wasn't buried deep in my carry one because Bill and I are a real site while traveling. We have alot of baggage! Our set up goes a little like this: I have Viv in her Ergo carrier in front of me, I push Ava in her stroller (one handed) with her Princess suitcase and a backpack on the handles as I pull a full size suitcase behind me. Bill pulls up the rear with another backpack and 2 full suitcases. It's EXHAUSTING!

I'll spare you the slow luggage and the shuttle waiting for every passenger with an incoming flight and we where home. FINALLY

Once we where home we where greeting with 2 weeks of cat hair on every surface of our home, which we always expect, the cats get nuts without us. But this trip was special, one of our cats (Luna being the prime suspect) pooped and peed ALL OVER our bed. I was horrible. I never scrub something so hard in my life, and I don't think our bed will recover, but we need to sleep somewhere, wish me luck!

Home Sweet Chilly Weather

2009-04-07T23:53:00.005-04:00

I'm back in NJ, minus the dress I was making. I had some fitting issues and ran out of time to fix it up before my trip, which would have been a waste of time since the weather isn't exactly spring like.

So far this visit has been non stop with activities. It great catching up with old friends.

I hope to have a picture from Robynn's wedding to add soon. She really lucked out with the weather because her wedding day has been the nicest day of our trip thus far. Today as I was rooting around my mom's closet in search of a winter coat and gloves, its hard to believe its 90 degrees back in Florida.

Robynn and Matt

Two Married Ladies- Sorry Fellas!

Slow Going

2009-03-30T22:14:00.003-04:00

As previously stated I am working on a dress for myself, finally. Its just about finished however, I have two issues. One- its hard to tailor yourself in something that isn't completed, as you are wearing it, while holding it up with one hand, and trying not to stab yourself with pins, which is worry some because I'm probably do for a tetanus shot. Two- the said event that I want to wear this said dress is in NJ and the weather forecast ain't looking too good for a sundress. Thus hindering my motivation to get off the Internet and sew.

Here is a preview of the pattern

Two in One Dress

2009-03-20T23:02:00.004-04:00

Another completed project and during a week of visitors, I have truly out done myself. This dress is another Ottobre Design creation from the 3/2008 issue. I made a few modifications such as omitting the under skirt, I mean 3 layers of fabric for a small dress seemed to scream overkill!

I have to admit that I had my doubts that I would like this dress once it was completed. The fabric is a little funky so I didn't know if I would still like it and I don't, I LOVE IT!! I really think its cuter than anything I see in the stores. I'm pretty sure God knew what he was doing by sending me 2 girls and giving me my sewing abilities.

Ava saw me making this dress and she asked me if it was for her and she was almost moved to tears when I told her it was for Vivian. Poor kid, after I FINALLY make myself something she is next. I have a long to do list (as always) for things I want to make and I am really trying to use fabric that I already have! A girl can never have enough yardage!

Thanks!

2009-03-16T00:16:00.004-04:00

(Ava not shown due to being a 2yr old)

It's getting a bit late, so this maybe brief, but I wanted to thank everyone for their comments since my post a week ago. I was hoping to get a comment from my mom or maybe Bill but I wasn't expecting all the others. It turns out my mom and Bill are the only people NOT reading this blog. I feel the love and support.

Today was Vivian's Christening, and whew! I'm glad the is finally crossed off the list. It takes alot of planning and coordinating when your guests live a thousand miles away. Of course this GOES without saying, Vivian was the cutest and best dressed baby there!

My mom and brother are here until Wed, so I'm pretty busy being a good host and tour guide so all sewing project are currently on hold unless there is naptime, and I'm not talking just about for the kids.

Make Me Something

2009-03-09T23:57:00.004-04:00

It didn't take Ava long to figure out I can make stuff for her. When I showed her some Dora fabric I bought online was thrilled! She started saying, "Mommy make me something." I'm so happy she doesn't mind sporting Mommy Made fashions. She was recently moved to tears when I told her I was making a dress for Vivian.

Ava might like the custom fashions however, she isn't always willing to model for me. I tell her its for the blog but she doesn't give it a second thought. So here is the best I could do picture wise for the Dora tank top.

My People

2009-03-05T20:51:00.002-05:00

My people or lack there of.... It's been, dare I say, a month since I added the "Devoted Readers" tool to my blog and sadly, Bill is my only follower and even sadder I added him myself. Yes, I feel like I am talking to myself.

So if you are reading, please make yourself known so I can sleep better at night.

Wow that was uncomfortable!

Vivian's Christening Gown

2009-03-01T20:17:00.005-05:00

Vivian is getting Baptized on March 15th. I decided to make Vivian's Christening gown. Ava wore the Christening gown I wore as a baby and it was a bit snug since she was 6 months when she was Baptized. Well being the on the ball mom that I am, Vivian will be 9 months when she gets tapped on the head with Holy water. Needless to say, the heirloom gown will not cut it for Viv.

To spare Vivian a few therapy session later in life as she explains how Ava got everything and all she got was hand me downs and nothing was special for her I couldn't in good conscience buy a gown.

So Vivian has a very special handmade gown that hopefully her daughter can use or Ava's because I assume they WILL fight over my handy work!

I don't know if this project was easy or if my sewing skills are improving but this was a BREEZE! I was a little nervous getting started because I never made anything out of taffeta or lace but things came together nicely. I'm thrilled with the outcome.

I was Running..

2009-02-22T20:19:00.003-05:00

It's finally over- my half marathon! Today I ran the Fort Lauderdale A1A Half Marathon in 2hrs and 36minutes. They say the last mile is the hardest, well I would say the last 3 are hard the last one is forever long. I am really happy with my time. Running is a big challenge for me, but I have been training since Nov 1st and have managed to loose 15lbs in the training process. So that makes me like running.

I don't have any races planned for the near future, this race was the last longer distance race in this area and I can't afford to travel around racing. But my training will continue.

Romper for Vivian

2009-02-12T11:45:00.005-05:00

I think I'm a little addicted to making rompers. I just love them! All in one outfit, what's not to love. And with some of the outfits Bill puts together, its the best thing for our family.

I got a little side tracked with other projects so Vivian ended up with capris.

Burda 9650- Finally finished!

Craft Show

2009-02-10T22:38:00.003-05:00

I did my first craft show this weekend. I was selling tissue box covers ( as shown above). I sold enough to cover the cost of the booth so no Porsche shopping anytime soon. One might be disappointed without making a profit during an eight hour day, but I don't get out much.

The show wasn't exactly crowded, but perhaps I have high expectations due to my South Jersey up bringing, where craft shows are a staple weekend activity. I did have great booth neighbors and already got connected about more upcoming shows. So I'm not about the leave the tissue boxes of South Florida go uncovered! Plus I have about 80 covers I need to move. They are priced to sell at $5 - email me people.

My Kids are Awesome and So are We

2009-02-01T15:33:00.005-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XSPSnZbZ3PE

I wanted to posted this video yesterday, but I bought a sampler case of Belgium beer at Costco this weekend so I'm sure you can fill in the blanks.

One point of awesomeness from last night goes to my kick ass dessert- not quite a brownie not quite pudding. Ina Garten calls it Brownie Pudding and its like a molten chocolate cake Bill and I get at our fancy restuarant, but better because its bigger when I make it! As soon as I saw the recipe in the Barefoot Contessa's Back to Basic cookbook I knew Bill would love it!
Ava would like to take credit for the dessert, which I need to give her. She loves to cook! I can barely make Mac and Cheese without her begging to help and see what I am doing. Her speciality is pasta sauce, she is pretty heavy with the basil, but it works. Although last night, she was responsible for adding the cocoa and licking the spoon. Ava is hilarious in her video, which is awesome.

After eating we spent the evening outside by the fire. I usually build the fire but last night Bill and Claire played Survivor and forced themselves to build one without our usual weapon of choice, a liter of lighter fluid. Thankfully, they where successful or we would have froze of little Florida buns off. I have to say, my parents never built us a fire, and if they did, I would call them awesome. For this reason I say Bill and I are awesome!

Shadow

2009-01-30T22:40:00.002-05:00

I just spent the last 15 minutes or so explaining shadows to Ava. It seems she has discovered them for the first time tonight in her room. Perhaps she watched Peter Pan one too many times this week. So after a few shadow puppet displays on my part she seemed to be satisfied, with my explanation. However she did ask if Peter Pan was watching her in her room. I said, "No honey, that would be Peeping Tom, Peter's cousin." "OK Mommy, Goodnight."

Two Beds, One Crib and an Empty Bassinet

2009-01-29T23:09:00.003-05:00

Well the day has arrived and everyone in our house has a new place to sleep, well the minors anyway. Ava is now sleeping peacefully in her new room and in her big girl bed. Vivian is now sleeping in her new room and in a big girl crib. Up until last week Vivian was sleeping in her "bassinet" but mostly next to me in bed because the poor kid barely fit in the bassinet. With all the new sleep arrangements I suggested switching sides of the bed with Bill just to feel like we where part of the excitement. He declined. But we now celebrating by turning the lights on to see instead of fumbling around in the dark, silently, trying not to wake out roommate. Now I can actually hear Chelsea Lately and Bill can cackle away.

Disney Detox

2009-01-20T21:20:00.002-05:00

We had a great time in Disney, but I have to say, 6 consecutive days of amusement parks isn't exactly a vacation. The wonderful Packard family drove all the way from Virgina Beach to meet us for some Disney magic. What can I say, hanging out with the Kilcoynes motivates people to drive 12 hours through the night with 2 small children. All in the name of memories.

A joint family vacation is highly recommended but just like dating, not everyone is a great match. May I suggest trying a few outings or long weekends before you make the plunge into a long term commitment of a week long vacation. I believe the Packards might be our vacation soul mates. We had so much fun together and I hope its not our last trip together.

This was the first time we stayed outside the Disney Resorts and I loved it! We had a 2 bedroom condo with a full kitchen. Sharon and I made frozen meals beforehand so every night dinner was ready to go with minimal effort. I am proud to say we only ate out once (for breakfast) ALL WEEK! Which probably kept us sane considering the alternative, dinning with 4 adults and 4 children.

C-Ya

2009-01-10T22:06:00.002-05:00

We are packing up and heading north so no post for atleast a week. We will be hanging with Mikey Mouse!! This is the second trip to Disney World for Ava but for some reason I am MORE excited that the first time. Probably because she is a bit older so I know she will get more out of the rides and characters than just a few months ago. She is SO much older and wiser now at the ripe age of 2 and a half.

One Minute

2009-01-07T20:18:00.002-05:00

I think we can all agree that one minute is always equal to 60 seconds. But why is it that 60 seconds doesn't always go by at the same speed. For instance, when I am running full speed (a whopping 10min mile) ONE WHOLE minute seems like 2 lifetimes. Yet, when I am sitting on my sofa with a glass of wine watching Gossip Girl, 60 whole minutes goes by in a blink of an eye.

Butternut Squash and the Birds

2009-01-04T22:23:00.004-05:00

While most people I know where probably sucking down Miller Lites around 4:30 this Sunday afternoon, I decided to whip up some Butternut Squash Risotto. Not because I think I am fancy or sophisticated, I was just hungry and out of Miller Lite.

I never made risotto or anything with butternut squash, unless you count baby food, but this was easier and better tasting that I expected. Ava's tongue was wagging throughout the entire cooking process. She even cheered me on as I grated cheese. Nothing makes you grated faster when your little one chatting, "Go Mommy, Go Mommy, Go."

Some of you must be thinking, why so excited about cooking rice? Well usually when I try something new my 3 foot tall in house food critic usually gives me a "Yuck," without so much of a taste. But tonight all I heard was "Mo Mama".

So a great meal and an Eagles WIN! What a day! Can you tell Ava was excited??

Here is the recipe if you want to try it out, another great one from Ina Garten, my cooking hero. I used less chicken stock and cooked it longer. Just keep adding and tasting you will know when you are finished.

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/butternut-squash-risotto-recipe/index.html

Ipod

2009-01-03T21:56:00.003-05:00

Ava has her own playlist on my Ipod. So tonight when she was in the mood for a little "Ants Go Marching" action I told her to get my Ipod out of my gym bag. I know, I am lazy. I really thought Ava had a good chance to pull off this mission, because when I asked her if she knew what mommy's Ipod looked like she nodded eargerly and then poked me right in the eye while stating, "right there."

Kid Genius

2009-01-02T22:50:00.002-05:00

Most people think their child is bright, but I KNOW Ava is of superior intelligent because Bill and I are always giving her mind blowing brain enhancing exercises. We know our training is paying off because when I decided to teach Ava our last name, I only had to tell her once. So when you ask little Ava Acorn her name, she is quick to respond.

Ava is such a quick wit it took her no time at all to catch on to the fact that we all have the same last name. So when I decided to throw her a curve ball and asked her what Vivian's name was by pointing at her Ava proudly proclaimed, "That's Baby Sister Acorn." GENIUS!

The Holidays

2009-01-01T22:26:00.003-05:00

2009 here we come!

The blog certainly took a backseat during these busy holiday times. My mom and brother where down for Christmas but this year was kind of a bummer because Bill had to work Christmas Eve, Christmas day, New Year's Eve and New Year's day. Not like anyone does much on New Year's Day, none the less it is still a holiday.

Although Christmas is fun and Ava had a blast, I am always glad when its over. Not excatly a relaxing time of year, well only if you are a man and you finished your sole Christmas time chore of hanging the Christmas lights.

As you can see I have added/changed a few things to the blog. Please become a devoted follower! See left.

White Christmas

2008-12-19T22:59:00.004-05:00

Who would have thought we would be having a white Christmas in Florida. That's right, although I'm not exactly talking about snow. Vivian is getting her first tooth. At this moment there is just a speck, or a flurry, to stay with my weather analogy, which is predicted to be a blizzard of swollen gums and crankiness until it makes it full arrival probably just in time for Santa.

Santa is Coming to Town

2008-12-14T22:32:00.004-05:00

I went WAY beyond my weekly update deadline. Yes I try to do something blog worthy at least weekly, don't want post too much about my excitement daily, because that pretty much consist of deep conversations about where poopie goes and if anyone needs to go pee pee at any given time. Exhilarating.

Our house is official in the holiday spirit! Tree up- check, House lights up- check, cookies baked- check, Christmas cookies eaten 2 weeks before Dec 25th- check and check..

Ava is grasping the concept of Christmas. She loves all the decorations and lights and if you ask her want kind of present she wants Santa to bring her the answer is simple- "Big". I'm sure that will one day be replace with "Shinny", just like Mommy. Here that Santa!!

Long time No Project

2008-12-04T23:10:00.002-05:00

I have been sewing here and there, nothing too exciting to share on the blog. Last week I did sew some baby gifts but since they have not been recieved and since I didn't take pictures of them before I sent them off, I can't really post them. Maybe later, if the parents send me some pictures. Which they better since they are awesome gifts!

Here is a little dress I made for Ava. I have enough fabric to make a matching one for Vivian. I have high hopes of getting a picture of them together in the matching dresses, which might be more work than actually making the dresses.

I made this dress in ONE day. I am getting faster, or parenting less. It's no secret, looking good comes with a price.

Ottobre Designs - Issue 1/2008

Baby Deer Dress sans Deer

Bowls Full of Mush and Rings of Tulle

2008-11-21T13:31:00.006-05:00

Vivian is getting so big. I still feel like my 3 day induction was yesterday as it is vividly burned into my brain. So it makes it even harder for me to believe she is starting to eat food. I can't use the phrase "starting solids" with a straight face, because that couldn't be further from the truth. It's more like Vivian is starting to eat bowls of mush and she LOVES IT!

Ever since Halloween Ava grabs her yellow tutu at the mere mention of a bee! And with kid cartoons the subject comes up with alarming frequency. To broaden her tutu usage I made Ava a pink ballet tutu, she wants nothing to do with it.

So to hell with her, I made one for Vivian. And since she can't talk and doesn't know about a possible bee tutu, she is a "willing" participant anytime a pink ballet tutu arises.

Flight Risk

2008-11-12T22:26:00.002-05:00

Surprise to me, Ava can now climb out of her crib. I knew this day would come but I wasn't willing to accept it. Climb out of your crib day was combined with skip a nap day, which will lead to rearrange bedrooms day/week. The only constellation prize I would accept is the celebration of I use the potty all the time day, for Ava, not me. I've been fully potty trained since college.

Just shoot me!

A New Outfit for Vivian and Happy 5 Month Birthday

2008-11-08T22:14:00.003-05:00

Here is a little romper I made for Vivian. It's from the Ottobre Design's 3/2008 issue. It was supposed to have a little puff in the sleeve, but I think this super stretchy material did me in on creating that effect. This was my first time using my serger for adding the binding, which was a real blast. Needless to say, I need a little more practice with the serger, thankfully, Vivian is easy on me.

It's hard to believe that Vivian is 5 months already. Pretty soon she will be sitting on her own and eating food. She seems to be growing twice as fast as Ava did, perhaps its my superb mothering skills this time around.

2008-10-31T23:36:00.003-04:00

Ava had a great time trick or treating, this was the first year she really did it. Vivian found the whole event to be a bit of a bore, so she slept for the majority of the neighborhood stroll.

Bill had to work and since I took the kids out, no one was at our house to hand out candy. So I thought I would use the honor system to distribute the candy. You probably know where this is going, yup my whole treat container was gone, my treasured 99cent plastic pumpkin! Those damn kids.

Sore Bum

2008-10-28T22:49:00.005-04:00

Well folks they finished. Claire and Keith after 100 and 2 miles of road and 9 long hours and 2 sore bums, its over! We all spent the weekend in Cocoa Beach, which by the way sounds fancier than it really is. It was nice to experience another part of Florida, but the reviews are in and we still live near one of the best beaches in Florida, no need to travel 3 hours for sand.

Good job to Claire and Keith!

I've Been a Busy Bee

2008-10-14T23:04:00.005-04:00

WOW I finished it! Not that this costume was very time consuming, I am just easily distracted with my computer being so close my sewing machine. This is the first Halloween costume I have made, but it will not be my last. After all next year I will have to make 2! I better start in July or move my computer into the garage.

Birthday for Billy

2008-10-10T22:52:00.002-04:00

It just occurred to me that Bill's birthday is tomorrow. Score one for the wife of the year! Normally I would be frantically shopping for the perfect gift, but not this year. I am boycotting Bill's birthday, because frankly, he is getting just too damn old. Ok that is not really the reason and its not a full boycott, of course there will be cake, Ava and I shouldn't be punished.

Most of you know I spent most of September with my family in NJ, well while the cat is away the mice will play. If you recall my previous post of Bill's tattoo, it was pretty big, would you believe me if I told you it got bigger.

That's right BIGGGGGERRRR! And you know what bigger means in tattoo language? Allow me to translate, it means $$$$$. You think with a single income in these economically uncertain times one would be financially conservative, not my man.

Therefore you see why the birthday present boycott is in effect until Bill turns 40.

Picture to follow.

Elmo Excitment

2008-10-05T20:36:00.003-04:00

Tonight might have been the most memorable night in young Ava's life. Tonight she experienced Sesame Street Live!! Ava was probably the most excited kid in the entire audience. Right before the show started she was getting impatience, especially since Bill and I kept saying, Elmo is coming, Elmo is coming, she just wanted to know WHEN!

But once the lights dimmed and the music started and Elmo came out on stage, she started convulsions, think every teenage girl in America during the New Kids on the Block era in 1988. She just about passed out with excitement! The look on her face was priceless.

Our seats where great, and we where close to the end so a few characters came by for some Ava high 5s. Of course they don't let Elmo or other A listers such as Ernie or Cookie Monster down off the stage because that would cause utter pandimonia.
Elmo groupies would have caused a security nightmare.

Finally Home

2008-10-02T22:29:00.002-04:00

Well I am finally home. If I said it once I have said it a thousand times a month is a LONG ass time. I have spent the better part of the week re-orienting myself with my surroundings. After a few days now, I almost always remember where all the kitchen utensils are located, but for the life of me I can't recall where the full trash bags go, hummmmm perhaps there are things that are beyond my grasp.

During my lack of salary negotiations with Bill to become a stay at home mom, I once uttered the phrase, if I didn't work I would have time to workout. So this week, our newly open gym awaited my homecoming. I am proud to say I have gone everyday so far this week, and in case you forgot, its THURSDAY! Ava and Vivian go to the child's play area and get are you readyyyyyy ME TIME!! That's right I will even workout to have sometime to zone out and listen to music.

Still in NJ

2008-09-21T21:36:00.002-04:00

Wow it has been a long time since I have posted. I can only blame this on being at my mom's house. There is only one computer here, yes a house with just one computer and its in the basement so I only have a small window of time to get on it when the kids are sleeping.

So as I said I am STILL in New Jersey! This trip has been WAY too long, not that its anyone's fault, its just a long time to be away. I am a Cancer after all and we are homebodies. I will be here until next Monday.

Go Birds!

Tis the Season

2008-09-09T13:40:00.003-04:00

Hello football season, how I have missed you. Let me count the ways, one beer, two beers, three beers, fouurr beerrrssss oh sh*t it's only 10am!!! That pretty much summarizes my Sunday morning at the Eagles home opener tailgate this passed Sunday. It also explains why I wasn't able to mesh these thoughts together until now, Tuesday.

As you know Eagles football is a passion of mine along with drinking and eating so when these events unfold simultaneously I find myself in a personal state of nirvana that some would argue can only be obtain by countless hours of yoga.

In case you live under a rock or if you spent the weekend doing yoga and lost consciousness in the downward dog pose, the Eagles kicked some Rams ass on Sunday!

Keep on Movin

2008-09-03T22:22:00.004-04:00

The Kilcoynes have been constantly moving for the past week. Last Thursday we started our journey to the Northeast. Vivian and Ava did excellent on the flight, thank God for portable DVD players! We certainly wouldn't have survived in the good old days of reading and Walkmans.

After we got to my mom's in NJ, we left for the Packard's in VA Beach, which by the way is no where near 4 hours from the Delaware Memorial Bridge! Casa de Packard earned my highest house guest rating- even if we did earn our keep by watching some kids! I say it was a small price to pay since the other option consisted on me run 13.2 miles and 6am. Which I have a hard time deciding which is harder, running or waking up before 6am.

Our weekend with the Quinton and Sharon is one I will remember for a long time. Bill and I are so glad we where able to see them, the kids, and their beautiful house. Truly a wonderful weekend even if Q did see Bill's bare ass!

Trip to the Salon

2008-08-26T21:52:00.005-04:00

A Rough Start

Calm with a Pringle in hand.

Showing off her new do with her daddy.

Ava got her first haircut today, well it was more like a trim. A tramatizing trim at that, until she popped some Pringles. So next time, Pringles first, then the shears. After her first salon experience I don't think she will be begging me for highlights anytime soon. Although, she would look good with some.....

Aloha

2008-08-17T22:27:00.004-04:00

Inspired after a recent wine tasting, I decided to start my research in preparation for a yet TBD beer tasting. Since my taste buds have the usual suspects memorized, Miller Lite, Corona, Becks, Heineken, Yuengling, to name a few, I decided to go home with an unfamiliar brew on my last shopping trip.

My conquest, Wailua Wheat Ale, by the Kona Brewing Co. I don't know what drew me to this 6 pack of new friends, perhaps it was the "Limited Release" urging me to move fast, or the promise of a brew with tropical passion fruits that forced my curiosity. Hard to say which marketing ploy I feel for, but I am always a sucker for anything with a % of alcohol content on a label.

I am was eager to try my new brew so I didn't even wait until noon, what the hell I have no paying job, it seems everyday is a weekend so why not. With the kids barking and the dogs needing thier diapers changed I can hardly keep up.

I am happy to report these 6 little friends with 12 ounces of pleasure is just what I needed. Living up to the label the Wailua Wheat Ale makes me want to shout Aloha! Great tasting beer and goes great with Cheerios.

Take This Job and Shove It...

2008-08-12T22:32:00.002-04:00

....Well not exactly. Today was bittersweet as it marked my last day with Templeton. I will certainly miss everyone there and more importantly my paycheck. I am really looking forward to this time off from the corporate world to spend my days with Ava and Vivian and possibly another Baby Kilcoyne, not yet determined if that is an avenue I am willing to take.

I just might hold out until the mircle of science figures out a way for pregnant ladies to enjoy cocktails*. I feel this might be an actual possiblity if the medical community stops chasing the cure for cancer** pipe dream. I think I speak for pregnant women everywhere that if we are huge we should be able to drink until the point where we form beer goggles so we feel a hair bit better about our situation.

*I know drinking when you clearly know you are pregnant is not appropriate
** I heart cancer research

Yes, It's Real

2008-08-05T23:04:00.001-04:00

Real big!

I think this answers everyone's question.

She's Crafty

2008-08-02T22:50:00.003-04:00

Now that I am home everyday with Ava, we have been doing fun art projects. She really loves to paint. Although she is more concerned with the amount of paint she can place on the paper verse her brush strokes she is very serious about her work! Here are some pictures of our masterpieces!

Goodbye Old Friend

2008-07-27T22:19:00.002-04:00

This week Ava said goodbye to her best friend and most faithful companion, her binky. They had been together since the beginning, spending countless hours together(not actually the same one)but after a 2 year relationship it was time to part ways.

She threw her 'friend' in the trash and didn't look back! Well she did look back a few hours later when it was time for bed, but everyone knows once something is in the trash isn't gone for good! Although they had a very serious relationship, Ava did not follow standard breakup rules of no new relationships for one month for every year you where together. Ava is now sleeping peacefully with 3 baby dolls, 2stuffed dogs, and one random Pooh bear each night! That may sound like alot for one crib, but I'm sure some of them are just rebounders.

Ava is Two!

2008-07-25T23:57:00.002-04:00

If you ask her she will tell you, Ava is twoooo! Man time does fly. I still replay the day she was born in my head like it was yesterday. I guess it is easy since I have 36 hours of labor to reflect upon.

I wouldn't change a second of the past 2 years. This last year Bill and I have seen her transform from a helpless baby to a bossy, independent little girl, who never wants to leave the house without the proper accessories.

We cherish each moment of Ava's development even if she has mood swings of 30 women with PMS, thinks her sister is a rag doll, or on occassion poops in the tub, its all good...

When they fall we.... Laugh?

2008-07-16T22:31:00.002-04:00

I don't know why but when I catch Ava falling on video both Bill and I find it completely hysterical. I am pretty sure it doesn't qualify as child abuse if she fall on her own accord. Don't judge me, just watch the video.

Beach Day

2008-07-11T14:52:00.001-04:00

It is kind of embarassing but Bill and I haven't been to the beach since March. Everytime we go we make the same vow to go more often. You certainly take it for granted when its only a few miles away.

Ava wasn't much for the ocean during out last visit to the beach, however that all changed today. At first she was a little unsure of this vast, rushing body of water, but one waved knocked her downs as to say, "I'm water that will play with you," and she was hooked.

I hope you like our little video of the Ava vs. the Atlantic.

The Big 3-----0!!!

2008-07-07T15:59:00.003-04:00

I can't believe it happened to me, but yes folks 2008-1978 = 30 years. Sad but true. Thankfully, I wasn't pregnant and could drown my sorrows in a few Miller Lites to pass the day. As you can see by my glassy eyes.

Vivian's 1st Mommy Made Outfit

2008-06-30T23:03:00.002-04:00

Here is the first outfit made for Vivian. It's a wrap dress with eyelet bloomers.

Romper

2008-06-30T15:01:00.003-04:00

Here is another romper I made for Ava.

Crown Molding!

2008-06-27T20:48:00.002-04:00

Some of you might have been to my house in the past 2 years and thought to yourselves, something seems to be missing from Amy and Bill's remodeled kitchen, well there was.... for TWO YEARS!!! It was the crown molding!!

Don't get me wrong Bill (and Keith) did a great job in the kitchen but the incompletness grows drive a wife batty, not so much the first year but certainly the second year.

A big thanks to my friend Samantha for sending Mike (the crown molding guy) into my life, I am forever changed!!

Adjusting Well

2008-06-22T21:52:00.003-04:00

Ava is in love with her baby sister. Sometimes she loves a little too hard, but all and all Ava is adjusting very well to Vivian. Things are going great at the Kilcoyne home. Bill is off from work so it is great having him around everyday. We really miss him when he is at work.

Vivian is a very good baby. She is just eating, sleeping, and pooping.

Happy Birthday Vivian!!

2008-06-10T20:31:00.003-04:00

After a long induction due to low fluid levels, Vivian Grace Kilcoyne entered this world at 11:15 am on June 8, 2008. She is a little peanut since I was only a little over 37 weeks when I was induced. She weighed 5lbs 12oz. The induction was a long and extremely frustrating process, but it finally worked.

Everyone is doing great. Ava is adjusting well. When we first got home she was a little out of sorts, but she is settling into place now. She loves kissing Vivian, and handing me things I drop for the baby.

My mom is in town until the weekend so she has been a big help watching Ava during my hospital stay and now helps with entertainment during the day. Bill is also home from work for a few weeks to spend time with us.

Our Spoiled Child

2008-06-01T22:25:00.005-04:00

Life is good being Ava Kilcoyne. This weekend has been non-stop treats for her. First, Grandma sent her b-day present early and the boxes where huge and taking up way too much space in our garage that we had to put together the playhouse a bit earlier than her July 24th b-day. This weekend we also took Ava to a waterpark, which she loved!! When she woke up after her nap on Sunday she was surprised yet again by a new toy from mommy and daddy. Her first ATV. Thankfully she has no idea when her birthday is, and frankly we needed some new things around here to hold her interest a little longer for mommy. I am getting slower and bigger by the day.

Tired

2008-05-17T20:58:00.002-04:00

As you can see by the count down on the left, baby #2 is getting closer and closer to arriving and my energy level is very low especially after work. By the time I feed, play and bathe Ava I am pooped. Bill is working nights so its usually just me and Ava in the evenings.

The sewing projects are slowing down, as well. When Ava naps so do I these days. No need to suddenly become an overachiever.

Well some of you might have already recieved your June Parents Magazine, and if you did you would have noticed Ava is not on the cover. Oh I was so bummed!! But it was exciting doing the shoots and there is only one cover kid and 9 dissappointed parents (the kids have no idea). Modeling is pretty much over until the fall down here. We are still waiting for her to be in a Target and Babiesrus flyer.

Mother's Day

2008-05-12T22:18:00.003-04:00

I hope everyone had a nice Mother's Day!! Ava gave me the most wonderful gift, sleeping in on Sunday morning to 10am!! God Bless her!

Ava spent the whole weekend swimming like a fish. She certainly has no fear and absolutely loves the water. Certainly doesn't take after the Trojan family here. However, after spending countless number of hours in the sun, she remains completely pale, proving she is her mother's daughter.

Here are some pictures and another completed outfit. I am trying to get alot of sewing done before the baby comes, and as you can see by the counter on the left, time is ticking!!

Swimming

2008-05-04T13:35:00.004-04:00

Completed!!

2008-05-01T20:51:00.001-04:00

Another outfit completed!!

New PJs

2008-04-23T22:45:00.002-04:00

Ok they might look a little big, but hey these things take time to make so I go to get some time out of them. You see pants now, but by mid summer they will be capris!!

This week has gone by pretty fast. I am taking a half day tomorrow because Ava has a modeling job at the beach so we are going to do that and hang out for a little while. The weather has been perfect for the beach, however we haven't made it appoint to take advantage.

How Our Garden Grows

2008-04-09T22:14:00.003-04:00

Garden with Dog Protection

Key Lime Tree

Our harvest

I first posted pictures of our garden on month ago and as you can see, it's thriving!

Trip to Disney

2008-04-08T20:30:00.006-04:00

We just back from Disney World. It was a fun little getaway. The only disappointing part of the trip was that is rained Friday night, Saturday night, and almost all of Sunday. We had a laid back agenda but I was bummed we didn't get to do as much as I would have liked.

We started at the Magic Kingdom on Saturday and Ava had a blast. Thankfully we got to ride a good amount of rides before the rain started. Sunday we went to Epcot and spent most of our time at The Seas, hanging out with Nemo and Friends. Ava hasn't seen the movie, but she is in love with fish. If you have been to The Seas at Epcot you know they have huge aquariums, which would have entertained Ava and Bill for hours. Ava and Bill share a fansination with fish.

Monday- Finally a day without rain!! We went to the Animal Kingdom and of course, the first stop was to visit Pooh and the Gang. My only hope was that Ava wouldn't cry when she saw Pooh so we could get a good picture. Well not only didn't she cry, she ran to him with open arms!! That's my girl!! We got some really cute pictures!!

Monday night- Finally a night without rain- We went to the nightime parade at Magic Kingdom, Ava LOVED the lights, it was a great way to end the trip.

Modeling

2008-04-08T18:55:00.003-04:00

Here are some links where you can find some of Ava's past modeling jobs. The May Parenting Magazine is posted on their site and unfortunately its not Ava on the cover, all is not lost because there is always next month.

She looks so young on the Mini Boden site I had to check with Bill to make sure it was Ava, ahaha: http://www.bodenusa.com/col.asp?segname=Baby&styid=70004&segid=2&gpname=Rompers&desname=Summer+Shorty&gpid=16&gen=3#img

Here is Ava on the Best & Company website:
http://www.bestandcompany.com/thelookdetail.cfm?categoryID=34&uuid=0&siteid=14&fl=1

What's New?

2008-03-29T23:28:00.004-04:00

Today Ava wore my lastest project, a sheersucker romper.

I have been pretty busy lately so my blog enteries have been mostly pictures. I FINALLY finished my taxes tonight and the romper on Thursday night, so I have been scratching things off of my to do list.

Our garden is looking really good, I will have to post some updated pictures. We had some green beans grow, however there where only 2 big enough to eat, hopefully they start growing together so we can eat something. The grape tomatoes are popping up. Bill and I are really excited to have some success in our garden by the summer. I guess Bill likes his woman barefoot and pregnant working on the crops.

Monday I have my glucose test at the doctors and pretty soon I will start the 2 week checkups. At times I feel like this pregnancy is moving fast, but other times I can't believe how many weeks are still left. Bill and I are planning a few days in May to officially get organized.

Friday we are heading to Disney for a few days. I can't wait. I know Ava is going to have a blast!! I just hope she doesn't cry when she sees Pooh. I want a good picture of us with him.

Happy Easter!

2008-03-24T21:52:00.001-04:00

Happy St Patty's Day!!

2008-03-17T12:25:00.003-04:00

Ava sporting her lucky St Patty's Day shorts made by Mommy.

Yards of Fun

2008-03-13T22:43:00.002-04:00

Ava loves fabric just as much as her mommy! She doesn't need toys, just a couple of yard of cotton.

Busy, Busy

2008-03-09T21:44:00.007-04:00

This weekend was jammed packed. We planned a vegtable garden and a lime tree, went to a carnival and my company's picnic. Non-stop but very fun!!

Here are some of our favorite pictures from the weekend.

March is Here

2008-03-03T22:17:00.006-05:00

I never thought March would be my favorite month. When I lived in the Northeast I longed for July, but these days nothing beats a Florida day in March. The weather is absolutely perfect these days, lows of 70, highs of 80s.

Bill and I took Ava to the beach for the first time since the summer. She showed us she is over her sandphobia. She was very intersted in the ocean but that's still a little too brisk for a swim.

If you can't tell by the pictures, it was a bit windy!

Another Dress Completed

2008-02-26T18:30:00.003-05:00

Another day, another dress!! I feel so accomplished!! Although I just realized St Patty's Day is around the corner and the holiday themed fabric lays untouched.

Our Weekend

2008-02-25T16:38:00.006-05:00

Ok, its been a little longer than I would have liked. Sorry its been a while. Thanks for the comments over the weekend, it helps me remember to keep blogging.

I am working on another dress for Ava. I think she will like it. I am certainly proud of myself for finding time to work on projects. I have also been making her more diapers and wipes. We are using cloth for both and things are working out great. It has saved SO MUCH money. I love it!

Grandma came for a visit this weekend. Ava showed her all her new tricks. It was a fun weekend. We went to a local fair which had a petting zoo, Ava loves animals but is a little thrown when it comes to livestock. After awhile she started to warm up and then proceeded to try and kiss all of them.

Hopefully I will be able to post the new dress in a few days.

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!

2008-02-14T22:02:00.002-05:00

Dress Finished

2008-02-12T12:56:00.000-05:00

A little behind my self inflicted deadline, but hey its done!

Diapers that Last Forever

2008-02-10T12:17:00.000-05:00

Ava's new cloth diapers arrived on Friday and not a momment too soon. Lately she has been getting terrible diaper rash, not to mention I have been getting tired of constantly shelling out money for diapers. I only bought a couple of diapers so I could try a few kinds out, if you are reading this and used cloth diapers on your baby which is old enough to drive, you would be shocked by all the "new" options out there for diapers. No pins, no folding.

So far, using cloth has been just as easy as disposibles, but less smelly. Yes, LESS smelly. Without chemicals the pee and poop doesn't smell. Since I have a limited amount of cloth diapers, we are still using some disposibles, and already Ava's rash has almost completely cleared up. Unfortunately, she has school all week this week where she will be wearing disposibles during the day. When we are home we usally get her to go on the potty a couple of times which helps with the rash situation.

So by the summer, I might have 2 in diapers but my wallet will not feel it. You might not agree with using cloth or think I am cheap, but I would rather save my diaper money for college.

Attached is a picture of Ava modeling her new diaper. Only the finest cotton for my baby's bum!