Busy September

I cannot believe it is already the end of September! This has been a month full of back to school, new activities, busy/busy at work, volunteering at church and crafting lots. Little T has joined several new activities and we'll see which ones "stick" - tennis lessons, choir after school, viola lessons start soon, and we're also trying out the local Taekwando dojo. I didn't remember fourth grade being such a key year but I guess it is! Oh, and girl scouts will start again next month. We had some problems with finding a meeting time that would work and I almost started a new troop at our school, but then it's worked out that I'll help with her current troop and half will meet after school/half in the evenings.

I forget how tired I am after work when it's also dark and cold out ... I don't really have energy to do as much as I would like to so a lot of things get packed into the weekend. Today I need to: clean the house and do laundry; sew up aprons (for the swapbot Recycle swap, Wizard of Oz birthday gift, winner of the Name My Dummy contest); craft for my We the People partner who wants something to hold fabric scraps; complete and mail my Pay It Forwards; I owe someone at Swapbot an amigurumi cupcake; I must prebake breakfast casseroles for church in the AM; plus post updates and hunt down aprons from the Flirty Apron Swap! Oh, and make a meal for my friend who just adopted a baby. Good thing I don't need to sleep!!

My Supper Swap group has been a wonderful success! We met earlier this month and exchanged all our frozen meals. I took a large cooler full of 12 meals I made to a member's home (six Sweet Asian Chicken and six Cams Ribs), and brought home 12 different yummy meals! So far, my family has enjoyed the Chicken Parmigiana and Margarita Pork Chops. Our group name is the "Chill MAMAs" cause we swap frozen food and we are Make Ahead Meal Artists! Check out the new blog I created for us to post menus, share pictures, etc.

I also am part of the Hogwarts Sock Kit Swap 6 (I think I'm in the minority of Christians who don't think Harry Potter is inheritently evil), and that's been a fun little game. We've created alter egos (I'm Lavender Ollivander) and are having "duels" (racing to finish patterns and sending it before your partner's item reaches you), posting quizzes and scavenger hunts, and this morning I woke up early to try and hunt the Golden Snitch on another participant's blog. Good thing I'm more of a morning person now than I used to be.

Well, I better get off the computer and boot the laundry on! Enjoy your weekend!!

Amazing Flirty Apron Received

I just picked up my box from Sherry at the PO tonight. I am shocked and humbled at how gorgeous my apron package is! Here's a picture I swiped from her blog until I can post my own.


She went so above and beyond -- I truly adore everything. My hubby was laughing because I kept squealing more and more, higher and higher. The gloves are perfect --- I didn't have ONE PAIR of embellished ones because I always give them away. The apron looks just like a fancy, fancy spa robe and the ruffles with rhinestone buttons are perfect. Fits, too! The bag is the perfect crowning glory!! I love the fluff and the bling, the shape is perfect and, and I'm just so happy. Even my card is amazing. Thank you, Sherry. You've made all the hard work of these swaps worth it.

Bless you!
Shawnee

Name Winner!

I'm sorry it took so long, but we've finally decided on a name for my darling dress form. There were a LOT of great entries to choose from. Thank you, RAINMA!! I'll be sending you a special apron in the mail soon as a big THANK YOU.

It's ROSIE, as in Rosie the Robot and Rosie the Riveter! (aka Sarah the Barracuda!)

Mommy and Me Apron Swap

As most of you know, I have been coordinating Flirty Apron Swaps this year and having so much fun doing it! However, I'd like to do a special swap here on my blog that's a little simpler. If you are interesting in swapping adult and child sized matching/coordinating aprons, join my new Mommy and Me Apron Swap. I was envisioning each of us having a new apron set just in time for holiday baking, although they don't need to be holiday themed unless that's what you request. This could be for a Grammy and Grandchild, too. Also, I know most of you have multiple kidlets, so indicate the number/gender of the child-sized aprons, and I'll do my best to match similar requests.

Sign Up Date: Now through September 30, 2008
Swap Date: October 20, 2008

Package will include two (or more) matching/coordinating handmade aprons, adult and child-sized, and a children's cookbook - recycled/thrifted is fine if in great shape. Any other little goodies would be an extra treat but not required.

To sign up, send an email to shawneehATyahoo.com with the following info:

• Your First & Last Name
• Your Mailing Address
• Your Email Address
• Your Blog/Website Link
• Do you want holiday theme or not? If yes, which holiday?
• List age/size/gender of children's aprons needed and size of adult apron
• Are you willing to make more child aprons than you receive? If so, how many?
  Be sure to put MOMMY & ME APRON SWAP and the number of child aprons in the subject line!
  
  
• I will get your swap sisters assigned to you on or before October 4, 2008 and will post the names of the assigned swap sisters on my blog (as well as email you personally with the information). I will list only first names and blog links to my blog (unless I'm asked not to).
• Packages need to be mailed out to your swap sister no later than Monday, October 20, 2008.
  

Please do not sign up if you cannot fulfill this commitment. Little T and I have done several swaps together and most of them have flaked on us. She was so heartbroken!

Aprons need to be handmade but you can purchase from Etsy or at a craft market if you would like. Although, I think Lucy's Sassy Apron Pattern and Sew Liberated's Lola/Lolita Aprons would be darling! And, think craft aprons or simple butcher-style for the gents.

A little sewing on Saturday

No-Name Dummy, still!

Oh my, check out all these VERY good name suggestions! My hubby's going to help me decide tonight so keep an eye out for the name of my dummy and name of the apron winner!! You're ALL winners in my book!! Thanks for your help.

Blogger Cynthia Matzat said...

My hubby says you should name it the Schmoo, after the cartoon character that can change it's shape. I would name it Gloria, because you will use it to create all of your "glorious" creations. :)
How sweet of your hubby! And glorious creations, huh? I like that.

Anonymous val said...

Evangeline after the 'scullery maid' on Nanny McFee.
Why? because she may not look like much right now, but once you dress her, she will be STUNNING.
That was such a FUN movie and I really liked Evangline!

Blogger cabesh said...

She's a curvy Singer, so let's call her Marilyn!
curvy + "singer" .. I get it! LOL!!

Blogger queen of everything said...

ella, from ella enchanted because she has to do what you ask her to do.
And obedience would be a NICE change, says this married mother of four.

Blogger Carol said...

My name suggestion is: Martha.

After Martha Stewart, the Domestic Diva.
Carol Lewis
She is my own little Diva, although I think the real Martha would be not feel as flattered. =)

Blogger Rainma said...

I say Rosie the Robot because it reminds me of the Jetson's robotic maid Rosie! Oops,guess I am showing my age!
That's terrific! She DOES look like Rosie!! Oooops, I just showed my age, too!

Blogger Shannon said...

What about Form-Etta Singer,has a nice ring to it don't you think?
Nice purchase, she will fit right into the family I'm sure. She's kind of like kids, you don't know what you'd do without them. Love'em
to pieces. huh! She will look adorable in all the new fashions you design for her. Shannon White, Spanish Fork, Utah
What a sweet suggestion, Shannon. You're right, once they're in your lives, who can imagine living without kiddos.

Blogger The Happy Hollister's said...

How about Olive or Olivia?
Tempting, since I just found out my Harry Potter name is "Lavender Ollivander" so Olive would fit right in.

Blogger martha brown said...

I like Sally. Sally Singer. Although Rosie the robot was a pretty good one.........
I really like alliteration so Sally Singer, Rosie the Robot, Ella Enchanted all strike a chord with me.

Blogger Aunt Pitty Pat's said...

Oh how lucky for you on Craigs list. You and your hubby are always finding wonderful stuff on there. I have no such luck ;(
Lets see what to name your new girl: You should name her .... drum roll please.......Morgan Freeform :)
M
I also like a good pun ... free"form" ... Hah!

Blogger Melinda Cornish said...

My vote is either for Queen Anne (as in boleyn) Or Miss Marie (as in Antoinette) since they both lost their heads too......Melinda
Melinda, you made me laugh out loud ... she is definitely headless!

Blogger Jen Sue Wild said...

What a lovley Gal..She looks like a good old southeren gal. I think she needs a fun catchey name to go with her sassy personality. How about Miss Ruby Jean....
That does sound like a sassy southern miss, doesn't it??

Blogger Amy said...

I would name her Priscilla, bc of all the prissy, cute things you will make and put on her. Either that or Bertha.
You wouldn't know this, but my MOM's name was Priscilla! The funny thing is, she never cared for it because she didn't want to be called prissy!!

Blogger Jennifer said...

I think she looks just like a Roberta.
Isn't that such a nice sturdy name? Oh, I just can't decide!

Blogger Hadley Gets Crafty said...

Her name is Anita Singer, and she has recently changed professions. She was an old time chorus girl and vaudeville act before.
Oooh, I love the back story here. I could definitely see her as a retired entertainer!

Anonymous Vicky said...

I think you ought to name her Victoria - after me!!! :-)
And why not?!? One of the most talented apron seamstresses I know!

Anonymous Kathy said...

"Dee-Dee" because she's a dear dummy.

I wish I could find one at a good deal. I've been looking at craigslist and ebay for one. Have fun!
Kathy
Oooh, that's a good one. I could never call her by her full name or she's be offended.

Blogger frankenpug said...

I prefer old fashioned names...how 'bout Lula Mae?
Cute .. my mom used to call ya Lulla Belle if you were doing something hokey.

Blogger Giabella Designs said...

I am going to suggest "Emma".
That makes me think of the beautiful Emma Thompson.

Anonymous Anary said...

Betty...as the glamours Betty Davis! Practical and gorgeous.
now, you can't get much more glamorous than Bette Davis, especially in her early years.

Sassy Apron Swap Received!

Look at this beautiful apron I received from Amy Br in the Fall Sassy Apron Swap! She just had a baby yet took the time to make this wonderfully detailed apron, even recreating a vintage pattern all by herself! You can't see, but the side pockets are so brilliant. And red is my favorite color. Included also was a matching potholder and yummy recipe. Thanks so much Amy!!!

Great image!

I just love this image I found at governorpalin.blogspot. I am still shocked at how people are reacting to her - so many negatives in the mainstream media and here in Democratic Oregon.

I find her a breath of fresh air and she's revitalized my interest in a campaign that was depressing me. Her values and beliefs align with mine, where none of the earlier candidates did!

September Supper Swap

A few of the gals from my cooking class and I got together and decided to form a supper swap group, where we all make multiple meals at home and then bring them together frozen and swap them out. Thought you all might like to have a peek on what's happening with us.

Thanks for coordinating a great meeting, Patricia. Here's what we all agreed to make for our first swap, using the Fix Freeze Feast cookbook. Laurie (who was absent), let us know if you would like to substitute anything for our meal choices.

We all are making six meals of one chicken recipe, and six of one other-meat recipe and will bring them frozen to our next swap gathering on Tuesday, September 16 - 7pm at Patricia's home. We talked about making it a simple potluck but watch for specifics and directions soon.

Kat:
Chicken Broccoli Bake (p. 22)
Sweet and Sour Meatballs (p. 92)

Patricia:
Pecan Crusted Chicken Strips (p. 138)
Margarita Pork Chops (p. 118)

Kris:
Honey Mustard and Bacon Chicken Breasts (own recipe)
Baked Ziti (dream dinner cookbook)

Carey (soon to be a mommy again! Hope will be delivered around 9/19 in Alaska):
Chicken Parmigiana (p. 28)
4B's Flank Steaks (p. 98)

Shawnee:
Sweet Asian Chicken (p. 46)
Cam's Ribs (p. 124)

Laurie:
Teriyaki Chicken (p. 59)
Ginger Beef (p. 105)

Don't forget to try to snap some pictures of the process, and think up a cute name for our group. I'd like to start our own blog where we can post fun stuff!

Princesses in Disguise Swap finished

I sent these to my friend, Val:



I received this cutie from my new friend, Deborah:

Naming Contest and Aprons for Sale!

I'm very excited to welcome a new member to our family:

Isn't she pretty? She does, however, need a name! Help me out here, friends. Whoever gives me the perfect name will receive a beautiful apron as a prize! Leave me your name suggestions and I'll chose a winner next Friday night, September 12. Good Luck!


Now, I must confess that buying this little sweetie was not in the budget for this month, even if she was a steal on Craigslist. So, to keep things happy at home, I need your help to cover the cost of my new girl. I have enough fabric to make one more gorgeous Cleo apron and three more of the high-heeled cuties. For only $20 each, including shipping, you can own a "Shawnee" apron! And if you really want them, an extra $10 gets you the matching gloves. The first four gals to leave a comment saying that you want to purchase or send me an email will be the lucky few!! I will send you a PayPal invoice and get your shipping info; aprons will be mailed within the week!

Cookbook Submissions

I have always loved Mary Engelbreit's creations. She's now working on a new series of cookbooks and wants recipes from ME! Okay, maybe not just "me" but from her fans, and I am a big one. If your recipe is selected, you receive an AUTOGRAPHED copy of the cookbook! Check out the details here. Submissions due October 1, 2008.

NEW We The People Swap - Part Two

Tracey at Itching 2 B Stitching is hosting another "We the People Swap" where participants vote on what's being swapped. This time, it's a sewing items tote or holder/organizer (see examples on her blog). Sign-ups end tomorrow, so hop on over there and say Shawnee sent you!!

Swap will include:

• One sewing items tote or holder


• Two of your favorite sewing notions or items (ex: ribbon, buttons, thread, needles, pin cushion, zippers, etc)


• One NEW sewing pattern (simplicity, mccalls, pink fig, etc)

1. Sign Up Deadline: Friday, September 5th
2. Partners Exchanged: Sunday, September 7th
3. Swap Deadline: Friday, October 10th

Tell all your friends on your blog and be entered into a drawing to win your own copy of Sew and Stow. Tracey LOVES this book and the ideas you get out of this book are incredible. So, spread the word and then leave her a comment on this post of hers that you have done so. She will then enter you into the drawing. Have your friends tell her that they entered the swap because of your post and she will enter you for each friend that joins. So if you get 3 friends to join, then she will enter your name 3 times plus 1 more for posting about the swap! Get the word out!!!! The winner will be announced by NOON on Saturday, September 6th!

GO Sarah!

First Day of School

We forgot to post some fun pictures from T's first day of 4th grade! She was so excited and had just a lovely day. Her class is in portables this year but she doesn't seem to mind.

Spring Fling/Sassy Apron

I bought this cute pattern, Spring Fling by The Apron Lady Designs, while I was on vacation. Here's a couple on-line retailers who have it (I don't know anything about them, including s/h $$):

Create for Less carries it for $8.59

Smocking.com has it for $10

I used it this past week to make my Sassy Apron Swap. My partner likes Amy Butler-ish fabrics, and vintage stuff too. I hope this makes the grade.

Rental Update and Favor Needed

EDIT -- THANK YOU KATHRYN -- TATUM CAN'T WAIT TO PLAY WITH THE GIRLS TUES & WED!!

I can't believe it's the end of summer. We spent a few hours at the State fair on Friday and it was SO much fun (even though I was scared to death in this shot -- I hate heights!) But, the reality of the season has hit.

Our house hunting has come to a halt for now ... we looked at seven houses in Tualatin two weeks ago and two last week. They all had SOMETHING that didn't work, either too small, too many stairs, not enough storage, too expensive, way too far from out of our choice school's boundaries ... but we had two top choices. Choice #1, he's decided not to move yet, #2 rented the day before we found out about #1 .. then we found one right near our old school ... Mike walked through it while I was at work, we decided it could work and when we called back, it was already rented (this was last Wednesday night). So, I decided to finalize arrangements to keep T at our current school and then the daycare tells me I missed the deadline by one day and she can't start with them until 9/8!

So, now I'm scrambling for after school care for this week since school starts tomorrow here. So, here comes the favor request .. does anyone have any day this week that you could pick up T from school and keep her until 5ish? The big brother should be able to help me a few days, and I'll try to take off early again but I'm getting a little desperate!

This not finding a rental house has been a PAIN IN MY SIDE. Plus, it's been so cold -- our current weather snap helped me remember one of the big reasons why I want to move. BRRR!!! (OK, it hasn't really snowed but it feels like it!)