Parasols, Pink Lemonade & Polka Dots Summer Swap Questionnaire

Let's Get to Know Each Other And Play 20 Questions!

1. What is your favorite Summer Drink(s)? I like Strawberry Lemonade and Mike's Hard Limeade Coolers

2. What is your favorite Summer Activity? Staying cool and spending time with my family

3. If you could spend a lazy afternoon reading, what would be in your hands? I'd love some time to read a novel off my wish list or any new culinary mystery.

4. What is your favorite type of craft/art medium? Today, it's sewing; yesterday, it was crochet

5. What is one art/craft supply you absolutely have been dying to have or try? I really want to bead but cannot afford to restock up on a new "favorite" craft LOL!

6. What are your favorite colors in our 'rainbow sherbet' theme? Pink, lime green, yellow, orange, aqua (or blue) Pink and Lime Green are my favs but I like them all

7. What is your favorite sweet treat? I really like milk chocolate and caramel; sour jelly belly jelly beans are yummy too

8. Are there any craft or art supplies you would NOT be interested in receiving? I don't need any yarn right now but am open to whatever you find

9. What is your favorite song today? I don't have a favorite .. enjoy Christian rock, Josh Groban, jazzy stuff

10. How do you 'pamper' yourself during the hot summer days? I get up before the family for "me" time - I hate getting up when it's dark up but summer days make it easy

11. Do you have any kidlets or pets? yup - fluffy white dog Ringo, orange striped tabby Ollie, plus four kiddos but only one that still officially lives at home - 9yo DD Little T; I've got a hubby, too

12. What is your best potluck dish for summer get togethers? I haven't been partying lately, but will usually take mixed fruits or taco salad

13. If you could take a summer vacation anywhere, where would it be? Somewhere not too hot! I really want to travel back to Germany some day soon

14. Describe your decorating style. Does that say anything about your personality? Eclectic; I have so many different likes that you'll find all styles in my home

15. What are your initials? sHa

16. Why do you like to join swaps? I love the hunt, the creativity in pulling together a package and the surprise at what someone else finds

17. You have 25 dollars to spend just on you for a little treat. What do you buy? ((you can list more than one thing) I'd look for a new purse or bag on sale, or splurge on a new book

18. What's one craft supply or art supply you absolutely can not live without? fun fabrics with matching rick-rack or pom trim

19. Who's the last person you hugged? My 9yo DD

20. What's your favorite number and why? Five -- you know, I can't remember when it wasn't or how it started!


My partner's questionnaire

More aprons

I finished a few more aprons this week -- of course, none were for my class!

This sweetie is for Leslie who's been a temp in our office since January. She's a dear Christian friend now, and her last day was yesterday. She's moving on to be a principal's secretary not too far from me so I'm so happy for her. Doesn't she look tickled??






This little striped beauty took just FOREVER! I'm not in love with the way the pattern turned out -- I hope Heather likes it in her vintage pink/black kitchen.




I gave away some gloves for my birthday and finally finished them. I hope Dorothy likes them as much as I do. They take so long to do, but are SO worth it!!

A few fun swaps

Won't you join me in these fun swaps (click on image to go to sign up page):

One Atomic Summer Swap
Deadline to sign up is TODAY 6/25/08

It's heatin' up around here and that go me thinkin' about another swap. Remember those swingin' patio parties with the tropical cocktails, the far-out salads, the crazy kabobs, the ice-box desserts? Don't forget the limbo and quick game of twister!

So what do we swap?

A Summer Patio Paty in a Box!

One partner.

We're Swappin': - At least 1 pimped out recipe card with a far- out summer recipe - 1 gift for the Atomic hostess - 1 Handmade item (senders choice). - At least 3 items for a totally groovy party: cocktail glasses, serving trays, martini shaker, bbq tools, tablecloth, napkins, decor, you name it!!

Let's stick with our Atomic/Retro/Vintage theme.

How about a $25 (before shipping) value?

US only. Recent flakers will be bumped.

Post a comment if you have anything else to add to the swap.

Thanks Gals & Happy Swappin'!!

I'm a DORK!! I've changed the sign up deadline to give a few more people a chance to sign up!!

Hittin' the Trail Apron Swap! (hosted by my pal Val)
Deadline to sign up is 6/30/08

This swap is for all us 'yee-haw' cowboy, horse, western lovin folks! Texans are cordially invited. No greenhorns need apply! just kiddin...

A few rules.... -This is a group swap only, the password is on our forum page. -The fabric must reflect a western life theme.... This means cowboy/cowgirl/horses/branding irons, etc. Think 'Marlboro man,' not 'apples in baskets.' If you want to receive an 'apples in baskets' country type fabric, put it in comments or on your profile.
-This is for a handmade apron.
-You will swap one full apron as cowboy cookin gets a might bit messy! Important...read your partners profile for size! Or post your size in comments. Size does matter in full aprons. I have decided to include half aprons too. Just please put in what you prefer.
-The apron must have at least one pocket
-Include 2 cowboy type recipes (this means something easily made in a pot out on the open range.) Ideas are : chili, one pot dinners, cobblers, BBQ sauce recipes, Beer in the rear chicken, etc.

Any extra goodies are up to you. Please package nicely.

Head 'em up and move 'em out!

Boomin' Aprons Beat the Heat July Halloween Apron Swap
Deadline to sign up is 6/30/08

Create a fall or Halloween themed apron and send it off to your partner along with a fall/Halloween card!

This and That

Lots of little things going on:

I remade my Flirty Apron Swap apron because my partner really wanted a non-American interpretation of the theme and I kept second-guessing myself that the Fireworks wouldn't cut it. So, just sent this on off. Little T modeled for me and doesn't she look cute? This is a pic before accent buttons on the bodice and pocket. Working now what Round 3 will look like - happy take any suggestions.

I've been working on the women's cooking class at church (registration form here). If you live near Tualatin and are interested, sign-ups are through next weekend. This is class is turning out smaller than expected so feel free to bring a friend or two if you want to learn more about DIY freezer meals!

I forgot to post our praise here - Mike passed his bus driver re-certification! Yeah!! We don't have that worry for another year, plus this means one more year for Mike (and us all) to get healthier and into better shape.

My meal assembly home-party business, Thyme for Fun, has really slowed down. I wish I knew exactly why .. is it the new business model I was trying, the food, the pricing, is the market saturated with storefronts so no one wants to try and gather friends, or just a reflection of the fact I spend less time marketing??? This little business was such a blessing when Mike was laid off but maybe it's time to let go ... however, it's hard to do that, too. It's been such a part of my life for so many years. I really need direction from Above on next steps.

I really want to host a Modbe Party! I found their company via the blogger network and adore their modest clothing and swimsuits. If I have one, would you want an invitation and/or info on how to place a catalog order? I like the fact the shirts are longer and thicker, they have the full range of sizes from my DDs' to my plus sizing, and they are lots more stylish than stuff I find locally!

Well, better head to work. June has just been a bear ... I'm so bummed that my schedule got so overwhelmed that I missed my dear friend's baby shower last weekend.

That's my other priority this summer - getting on track with organization!
~Shawnee

Sitting on Countertops?

I posted this in response to a discussion about countertops at Blissfully Domestic but would really be interested in everyone's opinion.

Do you allow your children (I'm thinking pre-teens and older) to actually SIT on the countertops?

I felt like such an "old lady" at work recently when I actually had to tell a 20-something co-worker not to sit on the kitchen countertops. When she actually got back up there after I jokingly made a comment about moving her butt, I then said something to the effect that it "really bothers me to have your bottom where I'm going to be preparing food." She did get down and acted offended. However, when I mentioned the situation privately to someone else, they weren't as shocked as I was.

What do you think?

Day 10 - Overwhelmed!

Oh my goodness, I can't believe this is day 10 already! I have eight aprons cut out, almost done with another swap apron, have two pairs flirty gloves to complete and DID finish a special dress for my darling Tessa to wear to a wedding. I'm pooped!!

A sweet co-worker of mine suggested that I might not want to actually give every class participant an apron but to use them as incentives and prizes during the class. This brilliant suggestion is looking better and better.

Coming to An End

Hi All --

Just a quick reminder that the Celebrating Independence round of the Flirty Apron Swap ends this weekend! I chose this special weekend for several personal reasons:

• For this swap, it's a fun weekend because today (Saturday, June 14) is Flag Day. Be sure to fly your colors with pride today!!
  
  
• Tomorrow is Father's Day! I hope you all cook up a special treat for someone on Father's Day - your dad, grandpa, hubby, a neighbor - and wear a flirty apron while doing it!
  
  
• It's my niece Tessi's birthday tomorrow, too. She'll be 6 and lives in AZ.
  
  
• It's a remembrance, too; my mother passed away 11 years ago tomorrow, and it was Father's Day that year too. So, I'm trying to spread a little joy around in honor of my mother, Priscilla Clara Houghtling Christensen (1923 - 1997). She didn't wear a lot of aprons but she is the one that taught me the joy of surprises, creativity and giving to others!! Hey all, hug your momma for me next time you see her!
  

So, if you're going to be late with your apron (mailing after Monday), please let me and your partner know. As an added incentive to SEW, SEW, SEW this weekend, don't forget that everyone who mails on time is entered into a drawing for a Sew Liberated pattern!!

Enjoy a glorious and creative weekend!!
Shawnee

PS - If you didn't get to join us this time, be sure to keep checking back for the next round!

Day 3

Pictured: two of the aprons will be the paisley and brown w/aqua dots, and two in the pink shoe fabric.

Today I stayed after a long day at work to help my friend finish HER flirty apron for our swap. I did manage to cut out four more aprons while helping her. I'm getting nervous!

Day 2

I was able to cut out two aprons tonight -- one complicated for a swap, and one cute half apron for my class. Progress is slow when I have such long days at work.

Day One of Mega Apron Marathon

I cut out three patterns tonight. My strategy is going to be to make at least two of each pattern I do, translating my make-ahead-meals method into sewing ... assembly style saves the most time! So, while I may not finish one every day, I should be able to get 7-10 done in a week by working on several at one time - right?

I have lots of cheerleaders (literally) so I'm feeling pretty confident this is doable. However, I do have a few more non-Marathon aprons I need to finish, too. (fingers crossed)

Here's my new apron avatar ... isn't she a hottie?!? That's the way I want to FEEL ... happy and sexy even while blessing my family by cleaning, ya know?!?

On a serious note ...

In a more serious note, I would appreciate all your thoughts and prayers for my dear husband. He had been hospitalized this past December and is pretty much recovered. However, his bus driving job requires medical certification and his current doctor has asked for some more tests before he will sign off. His license will expire on the 20th and he has two appointments with two different doctors for two chances to pass ... one this Tuesday and the other on the 18th. Pray that he will be able to pass at least one of them with flying colors.

If for some reason he cannot be recertified, he will once again be unemployed. Period. In this depressed economy. My heart almost stops just thinking about going through that all over again. I'm happy to say he's been walking more and eating better, but I'm afraid it might be too little, too late.

Mega Apron Marathon Challenge!

Hello my dear Apronista friends! I have chosen post #200 to share how I am about to embark on a wild and crazy adventure. I am going to attempt to make 30 aprons in less than 30 days!!

I will be teaching a Make Ahead Meals class in my church during the month of July. I really wanted to lead an apron sewing class, but they needed a cooking class. Well, this is for the Lord and not my own glory. So, in order to get my apron "fix", I've decided to include an apron as part of my curriculum! I have space for 35 participants, which is how many I taught when I led this class five years ago, so that means I may actually need 35 aprons. My first class is Tuesday, July 8 and I need to have all my aprons done by then.

So, in an attempt to keep myself on task, I will be posting my aprons both here and on my Apronista blog (requires invitation to view -- just ask and I'll send you one). Of course, all this sewing has to take place in addition to my full time job, running a household and finalizing the actual class curriculum. I need some help! Will some of you ladies join on this Marathon with me and keep me motivated & on task? You could make aprons to sell on Etsy or perhaps extras to send to Lucy for disaster relief...

Just say YES!

Bye Bye Brownies

How fast the time passes! T's been in Girl Scouts since 1st grade although it's the first year for this troop. Her 3rd grade troop members crossed the symbolic bridge and are now Junior Girl Scouts!! Thanks to her leaders, current and present: Mary A, Donna F, Darlene and April. You're the best!

Double the Fun Aprons

I made two entirely different aprons this weekend from the same pattern. Simplicity 3752 is my new pattern, and I chose view A (bottom left) with a flirty halter neck and full skirt. While the pattern cover shows this made out of one fabric, I made the Flirty Swap out of two different fabrics and my special one for disaster relief is out of three fabrics.

This weekend has been great practice for me. Keep an eye on this blog, because I'll be making 30 aprons in less than 30 days starting NOW! I'm teaching a Make Ahead Meals class at church in July and I want to give each participant an apron.

Anyone want to join me in a Mega Apron Marathon??

Birthday Giveaway WINNER

Thank you, thank you, thank you for all playing along with me. I had a wonderful time reading all those spontaneous greetings!!

My birthday celebration was horribly glamorous and lasted for almost a week because of everyone's varied schedules:

• I went to the movies with my youngest (Speed Racer wasn't THAT bad)
• My oldest Trevor gave me a $50 gift certificate to Barnes and Noble (where I immediately purchased A is for Apron!)
• Daughter #2 Tess treated me and Little T to pedicures
• Hubby Mike scored my amazing Sewing Chest
• Sarah made me homemade Cranberry Bliss muffins and a gorgeous pair of crystal earrings
• G'ma Karen & Mike bought the whole starter attachments for my new-t0-me sewing machine
• plus I was showered other goodies at work in addition to more homemade cake from Sarah. =)
  

Oh, and one confession in the interest of total disclosure ... while my birthday was ON the 30th, it was not my 30TH birthday. I was almost going to play along with that but my 25yo DS gave me "the look"! Now I AM way too young to have kids who are in their twenties, but ..... just know that my husband and I will be the same age on his birthday/our anniversary August 4 and HE'S turning 43 this year! In other words, I've been a mommy forever and really grew up with my kiddos.

So, onto the winner! Out of all 38 wonderful birthday greetings, the comment I pulled out of the hat is:

Dorothy said...

Hooray for birthdays! I hope yours is filled with all kinds of love and sweetness!

The rubber gloves must make cleaning lots more fun!

9:29 AM

DOROTHY!! I'm excited to say that I will be crafting a one-of-a-kind pair of Flirty-Not-Dirty Rubber Gloves that will change the way you clean house forever! (kinda) LOL!! I know we were swap partners before, but please send me your mailing address again.

Thanks again, everyone. Until next time you check in, have a safe and happy June!