Happy New Year!

I couldn't resist posting a few Christmas pictures--Mattie Claire on Shorty, Molly taking over Mattie Claire's jeep, and Molly cooking in the kitchen. We have had a whirlwind holiday, but it was great. Christmas Eve is spent with the in-laws and family--that's a big group. We went back there for Christmas morning to open gifts with just Jason's, then we raced back home to get dressed. Next, we go back to the in-laws for our Christmas lunch. They got another miniature horse as a surprise for the girls, so Mattie Claire had to spend some time riding Shorty. After lunch, we made a stop at the nursing home to visit Mamaw Chandler, then it is off to my parents' house for the rest of the night. My family is a loud group, and we had a great time--dirty Santa, crazy card spitting Uno, and bingo! My mom bought a bingo game and prizes; those of us that played had so much fun and loved our prizes! We finally made it home about 10:30, then I started packing. We left about 10:30 Saturday morning headed to Mobile for Christmas with my Daddy and step-mom. We had a fun visit and the girls loved their gifts. They gave Mattie Claire a gift card to Build a Bear, so we spent Sunday shopping and headed home Monday--WHEW! Tomorrow, we are headed to Alvin and the Chipmunks, then I don't plan to get dressed or leave my house until Monday morning when it's back to school!

I love Louisiana

Jason found the funniest thing. In case you haven't seen it, I thought I would put it here. It is on youtube.com--Cajun Onstar. It is worth the 7 minutes!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eb9bsy0DOR0&feature=PlayList&p=3F4FB8D4FF626465&index=2

Pet Finder

I am a big fan of petfinder.com. It showcases dogs from all over in rescues and shelters. This little guy's name is Fozzy; he is in foster care in Texas. He is half pekingese and half shih tzu. I thought he was the cutest puppy I had ever seen, so I thought I would share. I know it wouldn't be responsible for us to get a puppy right now with our busy schedules, but he is pretty hard to resist.
Here is the link maybe someone out there would love to give him a home; preferably someone close to me, so we could visit and play with him!!
http://www.petfinder.com/petnote/displaypet.cgi?petid=15370715?rvp=1

Platters

The grandparents platter is one of my favorites. I did it last year and loved it so much that I talked several people into one this year. The inside of the tree are hands from the two middle kids. The oldest put his foot for the trunk. The little blue bird on the side is the new baby. The stocking platter is for the same family of four. It is kind of hard to think of something for four kids with such a wide range of ages.

Coming tomorrow--bunny rabbits, hippo, squirrel, monkey, ladybug, and angel. Yes, it is a wide variety and all for the same person--she is giving one to everyone in her family. I have a sad platter story I can share. Last year, one of my favorite people got several platters. She gave one of the grandparent root platters to her mother-in-law. She was recently visiting her wonderful mother-in-law and was hunting a lost shoe or something. When she got on all fours to look under the bed, guess what she found??!! Yep, the platter with a bunch of stuff stacked on top. I voted that she steal the platter back and give it a good home, kind of like a pet rescue or something. She is nicer than me and left it unmentioned under the bed. I hope all of this year's platter recipients realize what a special gift they are receiving!:0) I already look at how much my babies' feet have grown and cry. They will never be that small again!

Zhu Zhu Pets

I just thought I would share this info, because of Laura's comment. WalMart is putting out pets today and tomorrow. It is only one per day per person., and they are $8.00 each. I got each of my girls one, but I had bought the four pack at ToysRUs and don't need it now. I think it was $55 with tax. If anyone needs it as a last minute gift, you are welcome to it. The girls at ToysRUs said individually ones were going on the shelf Sunday. I think they are a little more expensive at Toys R Us. I won't have time to return it until the day after Christmas when we head out for our Alabama Christmas!

Updates

I have several things to share. First (for my Bama blogger friend), my parents will be flying private plane to Pasadena to enjoy the game. Football is not my thing, so I don't think I realized what a big deal this was until reading her blog!!:0) Second, my zhu zhu quest is OVER. A special thank you to Jason who went to WalMart at 6:00 am this morning to get what we "needed" in case there was a line. To tell him thank you, I gave him a scratch off lottery ticket. I bought a couple to put in his stocking; we aren't drinkers and don't gamble, so I guess buying a scratchoff lottery ticket once a year is our indulgence?? Anyway, he won $40!! He used the money to fill my car up with gas, soooo I guess I will have to get him an extra gift for all of his selflessness today! I did make him some sausage balls to take on his hunting trip tomorrow; hope that counts for something. Last, I will have more platters to post tomorrow. The family tree one turned out pretty cute.

Zhu Zhu Pets

As predicted, Mattie Claire has asked for a zhu zhu pet. I have had my step mom looking in Alabama, and I have had my eyes open too. You won't believe my luck!! I walked into Toys R Us today and found all four pets!! I was so excited and purchased them, but now we have no accessories. I went into a WalMart closer to home and asked a department manager about them. Can you believe that she went in the back and dug through 30 boxes to find me all the accessories they had??!! I got the house, ball, and carrier. I guess she felt sorry for me; I am sure I was looking rough after a long day of fighting traffic, long lines, and a long graduation! I made my purchase and went straight outside to make a phone call. I called 1-800-WALMART and turned this manager in for being the BEST associate I had ever encountered at any WalMart. I would still like some other pieces if anyone can point me in the right direction. Our WalMart said they have the surf board, but I don't think my girls would like that. I am thinking car, wheel, clothes (are they out yet??). Good luck to anyone who is still searching for these prized toys!

Christmas Vacation

Christmas vacation has officially begun! I feel so relaxed. I have a little bit of painting left to do, but not enough to stress me out. As promised, here is another footprint plate. This was Mattie Claire's idea, gingerbread people. I did both feet on a square platter, then added the extras. Sorry the photo is a little crooked. Hopefully more platters to come on Monday. Have a great weekend.

Teacher Platter

I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. We spent most of the weekend painting, by we I mean Jason HELPED!! He helped A LOT; I could not have gotten so much done if it wasn't for him! I am also finishing up some pottery pieces.

I will start with the background on this platter. I have a friend that is ALWAYS there. She is the first to offer to help and will do anything I need--even when she is just as stressed and busy. There really isn't anyway to pay someone like that back, so I jumped on the chance to help her find the perfect gift for her daughter's teacher. She took the platter to school and secretly put each child's thumbprint on the platter. She drew me a diagram and listed hair colors and styles. I personalized the little thumbs and added names. The last step was to add the mirror. I sure hope Ms. Carlie likes it!! There will be more pottery coming soon. I am firing away.

UPS Man

He will never read this, but I thought I would post anyway. I have the BEST UPS man. If I am at my mom's, he will bring my packages in too without my asking. He will move big boxes inside, so I don't have to lift them. The list goes on and on.


I was just reading a blog by a UPS man's wife. Did you know that you could give them a little extra goodie at Christmas time? Well, I didn't, but I most certainly will this year. I guess I thought some postal police would arrest me for bribery??! She went on to talk about how tired they are at the end of a long shift, delivering Santa Claus... SOOOO, if you love your UPS guy as much as I love mind, make sure you let him know with a little something this Christmas!!

Let It Snow

She has talked about learning how to build a snowman all day long! I was afraid she had gotten her hopes up for nothing, but it happened. She and Jason scraped up every little little snowflake they could find. Of course, we had no coal or carrots, so we had to use skittles. He is now living in our freezer! We'll see what happens! Our new family member has even made it on our Christmas card. Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend.

12 Days of Christmas

We started our 12 days of Christmas to our teachers today. Three of us are going in together, so we will be able to make it really special. Our first gift was:

On the first day of Christmas my students gave to me

some yummy petits fours from Traina's Bakery.

I made little tags and the words rhymed. I told my mom today that by the last day I will probably just say, "Here's your present." I have the next couple of days all ready to go! I have some beautiful poinsettias that my parents found in Jonesville and those precious Sweet Pea stickers for Friday. Hope they like it all!

Yummy Tree

We are slowing but surely decorating. I put up my kitchen tree. I LOVE this tree. It is covered with gingerbread men, cookie ornaments, cupcakes, candy,...

Poor Molly has a nice little rash now, but it is just part of the virus. Hopefully, we will all be well soon. On another note, my children do not watch commercials. They watch Noggin and enjoy shows like Dora, Olivia, Little Bill,... We have missed the whole zsu zsu craze. I was bragging that thank goodness my child was not begging for that ungettable toy; however, a friend burst my bubble today. She said, "What if she hears everyone else talk about them and wants one? You didn't find one, ...." She was basically telling me that I had ruined Christmas for my sweet little five year old. I freaked and called a few Wal-Marts (including one in Alabama), but no luck. I will just cross my fingers that A) She doesn't want one. or B) Wal-Mart gets some more in! I will keep you posted.

The Fever Broke!

Molly slept until nearly 1:00 today, but we have been fever free since early this morning. She is awfully cranky, but I am so glad she is better!!!

Mattie's first day back at school was great. She isn't complaining with her eye, and it is looking good. She is little bummed, but that's another LONG story. She keeps getting disappointed lately; I bend over backwards to give her the perfect/no disappointment life, then someone else swoops in and ruins her day. Oh well, we made rice krispy treats to make up for it:)

Disorder

I have a disorder--something along the lines of not ever wanting to see my kids disappointed, give them everything they ask for, .... She asked for a jeep; we bought a jeep. It is at Wal-mart waiting to be picked up right now. She has changed her mind!! Knowing that Santa can only bring each child one big gift, she wants to change her big gift to a poodle! Jason says that if I buy a dog I will have to pick up every piece of poop--I don't do poop. I am thinking that Santa may just bring her a puppy bank with $20 to start her on saving for a puppy. Any other ideas?? She did a great job saving for her American Girl. She appreciates Julie even more for buying her with her own money. I just don't think I will be able to take it if she is disappointed Christmas morning, and she did just have eye surgery---that is how I justify a lot of what she gets:)!!

Here is the kennel that has the above puppy:

http://www.teacuppoodles.com/#PuppiesforSale

Bakugan

I have heard of Bakugan, thanks to Dawson, but heard of it is about as far as it goes. I got a request this week to do some Bakugan party favors. I have done this sample for him to approve. I hope he likes it; with two girls, I was just at a loss.

I had hoped to get more painting done yesterday, but at least I had lots of sales. I have some ornaments to finish up and about 10 platters waiting to be personalized. COMING SOON--footprint platters with stockings, squirrels, trees, ladybugs, hippos, monkeys, gingerbread girls, ... Can't wait to see them finished!

Magnolia Stitchers

What a great day!! I spent the day with the Magnolia Stitchers of Jackson Parish. I think they had a great show for their first Christmas Bazaar, and I am very happy with my sales. There was no booth fee, just set up and sell. I sold LOTS of lap trays, so it was a great day for me.

Didn't get to stay for the parade; Molly is still sick. We were just up to 102.4 before Motrin time. I guess we will just watch and wait. At least she is pleasant, even when sick.

What's Up

Well, we had a great Thanksgiving--two delicious meals and lots of visiting. Poor Molly is sick. She is running fever and sitting still, so I guess she is really sick. I had already made plans to do a show, so Jason is taking one for the team and giving up a duck hunt to stay with the girls. I have a pretty good husband that does more than his share, so I feel a little guilty about him missing the hunt with his uncles. I am sure I will get over the guilt when I sell LOTS and LOTS of stuff tomorrow!!! I will be at the Christmas Bazaar in Jonesboro from 9-4. We will be set up in the building across from Pizza Hut. They have a great parade and BEAUTIFUL lights, so it is worth a little drive north. Hope everyone had a great holiday; see you tomorrow:)

Sign Up to Be a Follower!

Don't forget to sign up to be a follower. At the end of November all followers will be entered to win a "Cookies for Santa" plate. If I reach 25 followers, I will throw in a mug!

Add a Bow or No??

Let me know what you think--bow or no bow???

Christmas Ball Wreath

I am a pretty plain person and my house is not very fancy/dressy. I follow one blog that always has neat links and some great ideas. Following some of her links, I ended up at Eddie Ross's site. Not a big Eddie fan, but I am a huge Design Star fan. He made a beautiful wreath using one wire hanger with a great Mommie Dearest reference and some Christmas balls. I thought I would give it a try.
Last night, we went to the Natchitoches Dollar Tree and picked up some ornaments. Be sure to check all the aisles on the top shelf. I found some pretty ones there that were not with the other ornaments. I even found some pretty ribbon there. I came home and stayed up until 1:00 making my masterpieces. I wasn't crazy about the bow, but I was exhausted. I went to bed thinking I would fix it this morning.

This is the wreath when I went to bed. I used about 10 tubes of ornaments. The darker blue were some I already had, but the others are all Dollar Tree. I found it simplest to glue the small balls in as fillers. This morning, I began playing around with the ribbon. I finished the wreath and was hanging it on the door and GUESS WHAT--yep, I dropped it. Fortunately, they are non-shatter balls, but it did break them off. I had to hot glue to get the balls back on. Of course to me, it looked better the first time. I took the other bow off and added some glittery blue ribbon to fill in and add texture. I may buy one more roll of that ribbon to make a bow. I haven't decided. I have more ornaments and want to make more. I thought my students might add this to Santa's Workshop as part of our field trip fundraiser. If I can get my hands on some purple balls, I thought a purple and gold one might be nice.

Santa Tote

I think this Santa tote would make the perfect little gift bag to fill with gifts for the teacher. I am running low on Christmas colors in the small totes, but I also have the larger sizes. I would be happy to fill for you and wrap with cellophane. I have several things at the Pea Patch that would make good fillers for kids or teachers.

• bath confetti
• cars
• pencils
• santa, snowman, and reindeer cups
• ornaments
• notecards

I've Always Wanted....

I have always wanted a pot-bellied pig. A couple of years ago, Mattie Claire latched onto this idea and wanted one too. My sweet parents (who never let me have one by the way!!) bought her one that my uncle found at an auction. She was a little older than we thought she would be and not very nice. We named her Strawberry and dressed her and put lip gloss on her--at least Jason did; I was a little scared of her. Unfortunately, she passed away on Good Friday only a few months after we got her. I was looking around on the Internet and found several today. Jason says it's the biologist in him that just thinks they are NASTY, but I think they are the cutest things EVER!!! I guess we have agreed to disagree, and I don't see us getting a cute, cute, cute pig anytime soon. The pic above is one I found on a Louisiana site. Click on the link to see more of her pigs.

http://www.thislittlepotbelly.com/index.php?p=1_3_Pot-Bellied-Piglets-For-Sale

LSU Cheerleader Lap Tray

I have been meaning to paint one of these for a while, and I finally got around to it last night. I have listed it in my etsy shop. I will be happy to do it in your favorite team's colors and add a name.

I wanted to add that we have already bought another one of those dolls listed a few posts back. They have been a big hit at my house, and they smell wonderful--baby powder! If you are still Christmas shopping, you might want to consider them. If you are not local, you can check them out on ebay in the Monday's Child store or locally at the Pea Patch.

More Weekend Speicals $1.75!!

Here are a couple more things that I added as part of the weekend special. They were samples that I did, and she chose to buy the larger totes. I think these make precious gift bags with the tissue fluffed out of the top.

WEEKEND SPECIALS

I have marked some lap trays down in my etsy shop for the weekend. I am so excited about my week off from school and planning to get some painting done. I thought I would offer some specials to help some shoppers get a headstart on their Christmas list. Of course, if you are local, I will drop it off in town to save you the shipping. Just send me a convo.

I will be doing a Christmas show in Jonesboro next Saturday. Their parade is really something to see, and I am excited about the opportunity to take my stuff up there. I hope I get some new ornaments painted to take with me. I always have big plans to get stuff cleaned out and lots painted, but once again--we'll see!

Doing Well

We are home, and she seems to be doing okay. She is complaining a little, but mostly just lying around watching/listening to tv. She is spoiled, but in a good way. Thank you to everyone that has brought and sent her prizes. She has loved everything--balloons are always a hit around our house, and she devoured the requested "steak fingers." My Monday's Child friend gave her the above doll. I thought she was too old for it, but she has been begging for it since they came it. I included a picture above. Here is a link to the ebay store if anyone you know "needs" one.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Corolle-Dolls-Les-Beedibies-Redhead_W0QQitemZ220458927119QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item335460440f

Hope Floats

I feel like the little red headed girl in the movie Hope Floats that didn't get picked for the school talent show, "...and I was gonna do a poem. I guess they don't like poems." I am whining in my head, "...and I was gonna give away an extra mug; I guess they don't like mugs." I haven't gotten any new followers by offering the mug--oh well! That is just a better chance for you faithful followers that are already signed up!!

Jason looks to be on the mend. I won't bore you with the GROSS details, but he is talking in complete sentences again and actually sitting up on the couch. He is probably not well enough to travel to the surgery tomorrow, but I will put on my big girl panties and deal with it! Just keep us in your prayers. It is so scary seeing her put to sleep.

Gift Ideas

Since our kindergarten teacher doesn't read my blog, I thought I might share my Christmas idea. We LOVE our teacher and aide!! You know they are good when kids with brand new broken arms CRY to go to school--not Mattie Claire but another MC. They are so sweet and patient and love our babies like they are their own. Another mother and I are going in together to give them the 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS. Starting on December 3, we will give them a gift a day until the day we get out for the holidays. Here is what I have so far in no particular order:

1. Sweet Pea Design stickers--I order personalized to:/from: stickers from sweetpeadesigns.com. Monday's Child is a dealer, so give her a call if you would like to order. THEY ARE PRECIOUS! 2. Initial Styrofoam Cups--These cups come in a clear sleeve. They have green polka dots and big red initials. Not really earth conscious, but really cute!

3. Personalized Christmas Fingertip Towels--I found some cute little towels at TJ Maxx. My mom is adding an initial, and I am tying them up with some Bath and Bodyworks soap.

4. Christmas Chocolate Bars--TJ Maxx again, I found a box of 3 big and cute chocolate bars. I had to do some cheaper days to offset the stickers...

5. Homemade Cheesecake--No, I am not baking. I am lucky enough that the other mom's mom is actually a caterer, so she is helping us out there.

6. Wrapping Paper--I bought them each a roll of Christmas paper at Target that would be a good match for their stickers.

7. Personalized Throws--I bought some patterned fleece throws at Kirklands--2 for $8.00. Again, my mom will monogram them. I hope they like personalized stuff, because there seems to be a theme here.

8. Christmas Cactus--I have the plan of letting the girls paint a clay pot and put a started Christmas cactus in each one. They are easy to grow (or so my mom says!).

9. Ornaments--I have each teacher a Christmas ornament from Raz imports to match her tree. One is red and green, and one is red and zebra print.

10, 11, 12 I am running out of ideas. I thought about a casserole for a night of no cooking, but who knows about picky eaters, ... Maybe a Sonic card for an after school coke. I would love to hear some ideas.

Keep us in your prayers. Jason is still pretty sick, and Mattie Claire goes for her surgery on Thursday. I am surprisingly calm; I just am ready to have my family whole and healthy!

Christmas T-Shirt

For year's the owner of the Pea Patch has designed adult Christmas shirts. I decided last year that I would love to design a kid's shirt. I finally got them done thanks to the T-Shirt Barn. I have them on sale at the Pea Patch in my booth and will be listing them on etsy soon. I have youth sizes in small, medium, and large.

Christmas Pictures

I tried to take some Christmas pics yesterday before this week's big surgery; it didn't work out. I am sure you can see by the little smirk who was choosing to not cooperate. My new philosophy on raising Molly is to tell her the opposite of what I really want her to do, then maybe I will get what I was going for. She has to be one of the most stubborn children alive. Well, not really, she is very sweet and mostly keeps a smile on her face!

Follower Goal

If I reach 25 followers by the end of November for the giveaway, I will add a "Milk for Santa" mug to the plate. Tell your friends to become followers. I have people comment on the blog all the time that aren't followers, so now is a good time to sign up!

Cookies for Santa

Cedartown and open house were great. I had a lot of fun. Since I don't work in Winn anymore, it was nice seeing some people I don't get to see very often. Don't forget about the November giveaway. All you have to do is be a follower to be entered to win a "Cookies for Santa" plate.

If you are interested in ordering, the plates are $25. I can also add a "Milk for Santa" mug for $5 more. I also just got in a big order of platters for hand/footprint platters. I have sold about 3/4 of that shipment, but I have about 3 left. Let me know if you are interested in a platter. I could email some samples and set up a time to meet with you and the kids. We are getting close to the deadline--I will need time to paint and fire before Christmas. I am trying to stay way ahead of the rush this year. I have made a vow--No Christmas Eve painting, but we'll see. I always have good intentions.

Open House

Downtown Winnfield's

Christmas Open House

Thursday, November 12

5-9pm

Businesses stay open late, offer discounts, and have lots of yummy food. It is really worth checking out and so much fun!

More About Me!

This is a post for my Louisiana/Bama fan. I was actually born in Alabama!! I lived there until I was about 7 years old. My daddy lives in Mobile, so we try to make it over that way several times a year. Have fun at the big game and be safe!!

I just had "one of those moments." What I mean is, I know that in a few years I will look back and think it was funny, probably laugh a little. While watching TV last night, I started working on some custom sea life handpainted ornaments. The large crab one turned out cute and was ready to ship. I am sure you can see where this is headed--she picked it up and crashed the "ball" to the floor. I can say "she," because anyone who knows my family knows which child I am talking about! She's still cute, just everywhere, into everything, all the time! I am smiling, and I am heading downstairs to paint a new crab ornament. Sorry no pics, yet!

Christmas Giveaway

I have been waiting for the perfect giveaway. I will draw the end of November for a personalized

Cookies for Santa Plate!

It's easy--all followers will be entered to win. I know I have a lot of readers that aren't followers, so now is a good time to add your name to list. The sample here is one Mattie Claire painted this summer, but I will post a pick of the Cookies for Santa plate later today.

I have some non-local followers, so I thought I would tell a little bit about myself. I live in Central Louisiana. I am a school teacher and mother to two little girls. I love my job, but I enjoy painting on the side even more. I have some of my stuff in two shops--the Pea Patch and CB Antiques. I will be doing CedarTown--a Christmas Market this weekend, Friday and Saturday in Ruston, La. I know I have said this before, but it is true. You could do all of your Christmas shopping in one stop. They have EVERYTHING! Send me a comment or email if you need more details.

Busy Bees

We have been busy little bees around our house: painting, creating posters, making crayons, ...the list goes on and on.

CedarTown

Friday, November 6

Saturday, November 7

Don't forget that CedarTown is next weekend. I will have my kid's Christmas shirts there, ornaments, painted plastic, zebra ornaments, and lots more. There will be some CedarTown specials, so drop by if you are in Ruston.

Still Working

I am not sure the t-shirt is meant to be this year. I just can't seem to get it together. Here are the designs I decided on: the original and the colors I picked. Keep your fingers crossed, and we will see what happens.

Etsy Trade Frenzy

I just got introduced to a new side of etsy--trade frenzy. For 12 hours, the traders get on and trade their "goods." I waited to be approached mostly, because it hurts a little to be told no. I traded some of my ornaments for a few things. I got Mattie Claire a pretty pair of earrings from http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7540731 The story behind these earrings is great.

I also got some great crocheted dish cloths too. I hope to get more good stuff tonight!!

Happy Halloween

Had to be fair and get some pirate pictures too; she is making her "arggg" face. The pirate costume isn't quite finished, but she loves it. We will make a little hat or hair piece before next weekend. Here are a couple of my favorite clown pictures. Happy Halloween!

What's Up?

I know it's been a while since I posted, but there is a lot going on. We can start with the good news that Mattie Claire had a great report card. She was very proud of her two A's. I hope that stays important to her as she gets older. I always feel like she is playing catch up, but she does so well. We got the news Wednesday that she will be having another eye surgery in about three weeks. She was upset, because we told her the last surgery would be the last... She said she wasn't going, but a new doll and MP3 player made it all better:-) No, I am not too good to bribe!

Molly is doing well and in LOVE with Dordor (Dora). It's amazing how she can zero in on the only Dora item in a store. She will be a clown for Halloween, and we took some pictures today. I will try to get up here and post some tonight or this week. She's not in love with that nose, but she is the CUTEST clown I have ever seen.

CedarTown is only two weeks away. I am getting nervous about doing it alone, but I will just pray that it is worthwhile. I have some cute things that I am saving to sell there. The leftovers will be at the Winnfield open house the following week.

Etsy

I think Mr. Peacock is my favorite!!

Etsy has been such a blessing to me. I have met some of the nicest and most talented people. Several weeks ago, I was contacted about being part of an ornament exchange. Of course, I said yes and let it slip my mind. I was recently contacted by the artists I will be trading with. One of them makes the cutest little polymer creations added to glass balls. Her creations are adorable and very reasonably priced. I included a few pictures of my favorites. I can't wait to get them in. I have included a link, so you can check her out!

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6346000

Do You Remember?

Do you remember when we were in elementary school, and we wore those elegant hot pink plastic charm necklaces?? You could add big bulky charms to your necklace; they seemed way cooler back in the day. I had the bottle, so I love the picture above. You can purchase this vintage necklace at:

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29460109

I think they are back. I have found Lucky BeeBee charms, and I know Mattie Claire will LOVE them. I think she will get some in her Halloween gift. They are at WalMart, Target, and ToysRUs. The prices aren't bad, and some of the charms have a little extra--open the cupcake to see a little mouse or open the nesting doll to reveal two more dolls. I got her a necklace and backpack charm holder with a total of five charms for about $20, not too bad considering what some of her collections cost!

Sock Monkey Shirts

I just made another etsy purchase--trying to get ready for Cedartown! This time from

Chic Baby Rose.

She has the cutest stuff I have ever seen. I got a couple of these shirts to put at the Pea Patch and some of her precious Halloween clips. I feel Molly's birthday theme coming together! I only got two, so give me a call if you want me to save you one. Check out her shop at

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5331741

Halloween Totes

Remember Amie? She won my last giveaway. She had already placed her Halloween order, and they are ready to ship. I thought I would share a few of her totes. I also threw in some Halloween goodies. Keep her in your thoughts and prayers this week; she is having her first little girl on Thursday!

Cowgirl Pumpkin

I promised in a earlier post you would be introduced to Henrietta, well here she is! Mattie Claire and I spent a couple of weeks staying after school creating Henrietta together. Lots of school people roll their eyes, because Mattie Claire couldn't have created her entry alone. I would just like to say that we had a lot of fun working "together" to create her pumpkin! With a second child, I think she sometimes misses out on time with just me.

How did we do it? First, the pumpkin is fake, so it wasn't heavy and was easy to work with. The legs are styrofoam cones covered in model magic and attached using paper clips. The head is a large styrofoam ball again covered in model magic. The hardest part was the hair. Yes, each strand of yarn is attached to her head! The hair was then braided and ribbons added to the ends. The hat is a molded styrofoam ball, molded and cover with...you guessed it--model magic. My favorite detail was the belt buckle. I made an oval of model magic and added balls around the edge, then sculpted a horse head. The whole buckle was painted silver with a little glitter added. Let me know if you need more specific instructions to make a cowgirl of your own.

Mattie Claire's creation won her first place in the school contest. The pumpkins were auctioned off at the Fall Festival. About half way home Friday night, she started crying. It finally hit her that Henrietta wasn't coming home with us. I eased the pain with promises of carving a pumpkin this weekend.