Doris Today

Girlies Birthday Party

2011-06-21T16:47:00.000-04:00

So I know its been way too long since my last post yet again. OH boy have I been busy. I have started working for a monogramming and embroidery company, Tiny Tulip. Her stuff is sooooo cute you have to check out her site. It has been a definate adjustment after not working in 15 years. I'm still getting used to when I'm home and when I'm not home. I am working two days a week while the boys are at school. I have some juggling to do this summer but we have also had a nice two week vacation so we will see when I go back on Monday how many plates I can juggle. lol.

Well the reason for my post is to show you the outfits I made for the twins for their first birthday. I know right can you believe it, they are one already. Their mother had sent me links to several things she was thinking about purchasing which were a bit pricey then multiply that times two, it turns to outrageous. So this is what I came up with. I bought two white dresses from Children's Place at easter time, $9 each. Then added rosettes and a ruffle to the bottom, added a cupcake and name at Tiny Tulip to the bloomers,, then some bibs, headbands, tshirts and tutus. They were the best dressed little birthday girlies ever. Of course I'm very objective,lol.

Zyleigh was not feeling well and wasn't havin it playing dress up so only one twin in the picture. lol

More pictures to come of the rest of the stuff when I figure out how to get them from their mothers facebook page.

I"ll have some pictures of graduation decorations we did for my 5th graders graduation and some other things I have going on.

Praise God for YOU!!!

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/wizard3_2.php##ixzz0miIcUbIS

Double Trouble/ twin gift

2011-03-04T16:45:00.004-05:00

I never did get to introduce you to "Double Trouble" They were born on May 27th, 2010. A few weeks early but ready for the world. They are now nine months and actually a little overweight but that's ok. I'm sure once they start cruisin around that baby weight won't stay on long. lol I've never actually met them only through pictures and video chat. :(

Zyleigh and Sophia

this was taken soon after they first came home

and this is them now

I think the one on the left is Sophia and the one on the right is Zyleigh but I'll have to check with their Momma. I can't wait for the day to kiss their little cheeks.

So a month or so ago I found these shirts on clearance and had to get them. If only they had shirts with "Great" Aunt on them. Oh well. Anyhow I searched and searched and racked my brain trying to figure out what to get to go with them. I didn't know whether to go frilly and over the top or sweet country calico. After seeing some really cute tutorials online for tutus I thought what the heck how often do I get to make "girly" things. Like Never!

So here they are

I could not believe how easy the tutus were to make.

Made some cute little headbands to match

I was so excited that I found the little tites at the Gap on clearance

Here they are in their pretty ballerinas in their pretty outfits!!

Take a look around if you like what you see you can always follow me:)

click on the "follow" button on the right.

Praise God for YOU!!!

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/wizard3_2.php##ixzz0miIcUbIS

Bathroom Organization

2011-03-04T13:55:00.000-05:00

Score! I finally found something to corral all my bathroom counter beauty utensils.

Im not blessed to have a vanity with a drawer in it so my most used things seemed to always be all over the counter top of my sink. I found it at my favorite store Marshalls for $14.99, which was a little more than I wanted to pay but I've looked high and low for something for months and come up empty handed. I figured the sanity it will save me was worth the 15bucks.

I used old canning jars that we had left over to stand my hair brushes in and another one for my toothbrush and toothpaste. A votive cup for my makeup brushes. I'm still on the search of some sort of try to put my eyeshadow, powder foundation, blush, etc in, a somewhat shallow curved tray would be perfect. I suppose even a stylish small pencil box would work.

Week #9 of my organizing challenge

Praise God for YOU!!!

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Let the Sunshine In!!!/ Bridal gift.

2011-03-02T14:00:00.002-05:00

" He gives strength to the wearyand increases the power of the weak." Isaiah 40:29

Oh Happy Day, Let the Sunshine In.

Thought I would post a picture of myself before you thought

Whoa! she's a gonner, :)

Whew do I feel better after that release yesterday!!!

I woke up today refreshed, put on my happy green shirt, made myself a happy headband and got to work, :)

I figured I would go with the old saying if you don't know what to do then just do something.

So I know I need help processing my grandmother's death, and I can't do it alone. I am in the process of finding a bible study to help me through that.

And on the business side of things I figured I would go with what I know right now.

So here is a few things I made up some time ago and never got to share with you...

My sister in law was going to a bridal shower and asked me to come up with something.

Here is His and Her Aprons

"His" is a barkeeper style apron, comes below the knees.

"Hers" is the "Leah" apron with a few added touches.

I added a cool jean style pockets to "His" with a button closure waistband.

I added lace trim, pleated waisteband and flower rosettes to the pocket of" Hers"

Along with it I made a set of six napkin rings.

They were made out of white vinyl with

crystal and pearl beaded rings.

The centers were bejeweled with rhinestones and mother of pearl beads.

Be on the look out I am going to be adding these to my etsy store by the end of the week.

Take a look around if you like what you see be sure

to click on the follow button on the right. :)

Praise God for YOU!!!

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/wizard3_2.php##ixzz0miIcUbIS

What do you want to be when you grow up?

2011-03-01T16:35:00.000-05:00

     This post is going to be somewhat off the beaten path but hopefully you will stay with me. I've done a lot of contemplating lately. I have been searching for some time now on ways I can bring income into our home. That was one of the reasons I started Doris Today, I was hoping to sew and create a few days a week while my kids were in school. I have had a little, well a long one, lull in my creativity at least from a making things to sell stand point. My grandmother, who was a substantial part of my life growing up, passed away a year and a half ago. From that point on I noticed life kind of happening around me while I was standing still.
     Fast forward a year and half to today and I'm having a conversation with my oldest son that is starting high school next year. That in itself is traumatizing enough, could I really be old enough to have a high schooler? yikes Anyhow back on track, our conversation was about what classes he might be taking next year. He has taken some survey at school to help guide him in class choice process. You know if are on the creative side you may want to take writing, or art related courses, if you are excited about science then what kind of science and gearing you toward those classes. Mind you I told him you have to take some of it somewhat lightly because how many of us knew what we wanted to do when they were in 8th grade? My suggestion was to him to take things he thinks he might be interested in and let his path form from there, but keep in mind things you might be able to do with those courses. For instance he took a class called "Teen Challenges" in my day was called Home Economics because all his friends were taking it and they all said it was really fun that you got to make cookies and was overall just an easy course. Well in the end none of his friends ended up being in his class and he hates it. Mind you he is learning some life skills but in the end it is nothing what he thought it was going to be. So my point was for him to take courses that might have spark some interest of his and not just because all his friends are taking it.
     Which had me thinking deeply in what I was doing as well. I am finally seeing some light and my passion is starting to churn inside me again but for what? I don't know. Should I take a "job" outside the home part time? How much do I want to disrupt my home in doing so? Is it worth taking just any old job or should I try to find something in a creative field? Or should I continue pusuing sewing acccessories and gifts to sell? Is this really going to be profitable enough and where is that going to take me in the long haul? Is this blog thing for real? will it really bring in an income? or should I take my creative juices and focus them into something that appears more profitable like textile design or interior design? All of these questions are fueled by a life halting four letter word "FEAR"
     For most of my adult life I felt like I had a definate direction. I knew I wanted to move out of my small town in upstate NY when I graduated, and I knew I wanted to something in the art field. Fashion design kind of came out of the fact that I knew how to sew and putting garments together kind of came easy to me. Which brought me to the Art Institude in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Then when I graduated I took entry level positions where I could still in the industry. That was my direction. I got married and had my first son and that was my direction. We knew we wanted a more family friendly area to live so we moved up to Tallahassee, that was my direction. I soon became lonely without family or friend around so I joined a ministry called MOPS (Mothers Of PreSchoolers) I not only joined as a member but as a leader instantly, God had dropped me smack dab in the middle of a group of women that encouraged me as a mother, a wife, a woman and for the first time as a leader. That was my direction for the next 8-9yrs. Then my baby started kindergarten, my oldest started middle school, and the economy went in the toilet. My direction moved toward bringing some income in our household. But what, where, how? I haven't been in the work force on a regular basis in 15years. I have not filled out an application let alone made up a resume.   Then my grandmother passed and without realizing it I became stagnant, stuck in one place. Losing all direction.
    Have you ever asked yourself some of these questions? Have you ever felt like you don't have a direction? Have you ever been totally crippled by fear? Have you ever wondered what you wanted to be when you grew up, when your were already grown up?
   So I am going to take the first step to letting this fear go. I'm giving it up to God, the last thing I want to do is let it keep me from becoming closer to him and letting his light shine through me. The next step is I'm admitting it to you all that I am scared, and I'm crippled in fear. It may not be the best business decision to bear my soul but I felt I needed to share for some reason, and it was time to release my fears.

Praise God for YOU!!!

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/wizard3_2.php##ixzz0miIcUbIS

Sillouette Envy

2011-02-24T11:35:00.000-05:00

Oh my gosh I know I have written about it before but I just can't get over how many things the Sillouette can do. I really don't know how I am funtioning without one. I was recently at Ted's Montana Grill and love their "saloon' retro type decor. They have frosted glass on the doors to the bathroom with of course Gentlemen or Ladies on the door. I thought how cute would it be to make a little retro like sign to hang on the boys bathroom door. And how easy it would be to make with one of these Sillouette machines. I have drooled over so many cute projects made with it, I just can't take it anymore. I am not one for gadgets, well ones that require alot of parts or ones that require continually buying pricey cartridges that you make one thing with and never use it again. I love the versatility with this one. Enough said it is just AMAZING!!!
So I thought I would share a few sites (and some new bloggy friends) that are giving one away this week.

My Repurposed Life

Vintage Revivals

C.R.A.F.T.

From the Sillouette blog

I thought this was hysterical

They have endless tutorials and free images each week

AHHH I am in LOVE!!!

Look at this one using fabric, how stinkin cute is that.

Yes it cuts fabric too.

Amazing right?

So you need to go over and check out this machine on the Sillouette site even if you dont' win the giveaway each one of the sites hosting the giveaway are offering a discount code.

Praise God for YOU!!!

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/wizard3_2.php##ixzz0miIcUbIS

Spring fever

2011-02-18T20:08:00.000-05:00

I know for most of you in this country you can't wait till spring, cant wait to see green grass and frankly no more white stuff. I know too well how you feel, that's why I moved south. Ha! Anyhow we do have a change of seasons here in Tallahassee, everything gets brown, trees lose their leaves and it rains alot during the winter months. I have been cooped up with two sick children as well as myself this week so I've been really jonesin for some spring weather. Well it has arrived the sun is shining, temperatures are hovering around 70'. Oh but I'm still cooped up with the sick kids so what better to do on a day like today.

Window shop on the internet.

Take a look at what I found just waiting to be knocked off.

Couldn't you just see a cheapo pair from Target all bejeweled? Bet I can beat 80bucks, yikes!

Loving the turqouise and brown, I think I might add some turqoise goodness to my brown wedges.

and these were just fun and sasssy!! Love the red ones with a yellow polka dot dress. Mmmmm now where to find a yellow polka dot dress that doesn't make me look as huge as the sun itself.

and these well they are just wrong, are they sandles? are they a boot? Yuck they are just ugly, sorry if I offended anyone, that's just my opinion.

Well that's all for my window shopping for sandles now onto sundresses. I may just have to break down and something for myself for a change. I"m thinking some pretty springy printed fabric (possibly polka dot,huh?), maybe in yellow, or celery green. Ohh or a pretty cornflower blue, or bright coral. Its been a while since I have been fabric shoppin, I bet Michael Miller has something just waiting for me.

What style???? Some sort of wrap dress, full at the bottom, maybe halter top, or maybe strapless with a retro bolero jacket, cute little cap sleeve. Oh maybe I'll make two, hehe. One at a time Kirsten, one at a time.

Ok back to reality I have to actually be able to find my thread in my studio right now so it off to purge and organize.

Ahh I will embrace spring for all it has in store. It will be 100' degrees before I know it. So I open my windows and let the sun shine in.

Praise God for YOU!!!

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/wizard3_2.php##ixzz0miIcUbIS

With a little love

2011-02-02T10:40:00.002-05:00

I have a new system to keep me motivated to get my house under control. I have a tendency to doing things 150%, which is a good thing sometimes. But most of the time it means something is always lacking majorly in my life. When I am creative I am 150% creative, leaving cleaning, organizing, even bill paying to wayside. When I'm on a cleaning kick that is all I do and burn myself out completely. So I'm trying to find the balance in my life, work on things a little at a time instead all or nothing mentality. With that being said with my organization challenge under way, 52 Weeks of Organizing, I have decided for every organizing project I do I am going to do something creative. Since I got all those cords under control last week I put together this Valentine mantle as well. I'll apologize in advance, I tried really hard to get a good picture but the lighting in this room is less than desireable. Its warm and cozy but not much for picture taking.

With a little organizing..... with a little love

I printed these out from Tip Junkie free printables, two of them are 1Chorinthians, the one on top written in scroll I did on word, don't remember what font though

added our wedding photo (wow we were so young), a tin heart I had laying around, and my Willow angel

added a LOVE banner out of cardstock and fabric that I had

I was inspired by Tater Tots and Jello for this, I'm thinking it needed a little more of the black damask showing, maybe the ruffle heart a little smaller. All made out of scraps of home decor fabric.

Don't ya just want squeeze her face. Of course I had to add our baby "Lucy"when she was a baby. Oh how I miss those days

and a photo of our three sons when they were small and loved each other. lol No looking through all of our pictures as they have gotten older it has been harder and harder to get a picture of them all together.

With a little organizing .... With a little love

Praise God for YOU!!!

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/wizard3_2.php##ixzz0miIcUbIS

Organization Challenge

2011-01-27T12:50:00.003-05:00

Well my organization challenge is not starting out the best. I made my list but as usual life has gotten in the way of my planning. Guess thats why I don't plan that much, lol. Anyhow I'm not going to dwell on that I"m moving forward. I was going to start in my bedroom but the office demanded attention. We were having major problems with our phone line and needed a technician to come work on the line. Well I couldn't have him come out and look at the tangled mess that was border line health hazard. Like always I forgot take a true before picture but here is a sample of the mess I had

So in an attempt to corral all those cords I took a shoe box and covered it with some contact shelf paper I had laying around.

This is the final product, not perfect but it hopefully will keep all the dust, dirt and unknown objects from getting tangled.

Please excuse my very worn and outdated vinyl floor that needs to be replaced.

While I was on a roll I also covered a bottom of a cereal box to add to the front of my silver ware drawer. I was tired of things slipping under the drawer organizer and not being able to shut the drawer.

Well happy organizing, let me know if you have taken on the challenge too.

Praise God for YOU!!!

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/wizard3_2.php##ixzz0miIcUbIS

Great helpers for crafters

2011-01-19T13:06:00.000-05:00

I found a couple of great giveaways this week. Ok so maybe I have been under a rock but I just found out about the Sillouette machine. This thing is just what I have been looking for, it has the versatility to cut out anything you design it to cut. Not to mention all the different mediums that you can put through the machine. My brain is spinning with ideas, this will absolutely revolutionize the craft world. Well they have a giveaway over at House of Smiths, hop on over and enter, giveaway ends Saturday.

The next one will transform crafting industry, why on earth has no one thought of this before. Better yet why on earth didn't I think of it. hehe :) Welcome to the world of no more burnt fingers when you use your glue gun. No more burnt countertops, or table tops gobbed with glue that wont come off,or takes part of the table with it. Its called the Hot Glue Gun Helper, its comes with

Head on over to Tatertots and Jello to enter her giveaway!!!

Praise God for YOU!!!

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/wizard3_2.php##ixzz0miIcUbIS

New Year, New start

2011-01-12T15:57:00.000-05:00

Its a new year and a new start for this blog. I am going to finally make those changes I was talking about before way back in July. So if things look different over the next few weeks its just all in the process of working out what looks the best and is going to work the best for me. I have been learning so many things from very generous people all over blogland. I am so grateful so many of you are willing to share what you have learned with all of us.

Some upcoming posts...

As many of you do every year as the new year approaches. We make a list of things we may want to change in our lives, projects we want to accomplish, ~~weight we want to lose,~~ people we want to spend more time with, and of course after the money we want to save. The next few posts are going to be exactly about that. I am redesigning my studio, trying to make it more efficient for all of the different projects I do. So I will be sharing with you some of the many creative spaces that inspired me throughout the design process. As well I have commited to the challenge of organizing project per week, every week this year. Laura @ Organizing Junkie is having a challenge where you commit to organizing one part of your home/life per week every week of the year. I started on my list have you?

I'm very excited about this year of blogging. I think I have finally found my direction.

Praise God for YOU!!!

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/wizard3_2.php##ixzz0miIcUbIS

Wednesday's Window

2010-07-21T10:12:00.001-04:00

I know you all thought I dropped off the face of the earth. Well not exactly but summer has just been really busy. I'd like to say I was off the radar on some tropical island sipping a frozen drink but that's not the case. While my boys were gone I thought I would get all kinds of projects done. HUH not the case, it was crazy the first week I got caught up on some paperwork for my husbands business and the second week I was in panic mode trying to clean and catch up on laundry. It wasn't all work and no play I did catch the new Sex In the City movie with an old dear friend. Mom and I had a great day "junk" shopping, I'll post my finds tomorrow, they made me very excited. And my husband and I celebrated our Anniversary in Orlando for some much needed down time. No Mickey Mouse but we did go to Joe's Crap Shack (which is an experience all in itself), a great dinner show (Sleuth Dinner Show) and went to the Outlet Mall. Yes my husband acutally endured the day with me at the mall, he's a keeper. It has been full steam ahead ever since the boys have been back. We had our niece and two nephews come visit for a little while, which made six kids (five boys, two braindead teenagers, UHOY!) Then we celebrated my middle son's tenth birthday which seemed to last a whole week. Yestereday was the first day we just stayed home and had time to catch our breath.

Well here is the Wednesday's Window you have been waiting for :

My inpiration was a technique I saw on Make the Best of Things where she made a 3d effect with hot glue that really looked like old tin. So I thought why not give it a try on a window?

I started with duplicating the lines of this cross that I had hung in my entry way.

glued the stencils to cardboard cut to fit in each window pane.

Then applied the hot glue along the lines that I had drawn out. It takes some patience but overall I think the effect came out quite nice.

I then spray painted them a metallic, stainless steele color ( same paint I used on the dresser hardware), and topped with a coat of that celery green latex paint I used on the first window project.

I have a dear friend that collects crosses so this one is for you Sherri! I love you girl cant wait to see you. :)

Linking up to the last Bragfest at :(

Praise God for YOU!!!

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/wizard3_2.php##ixzz0miIcUbIS

Dresser Hardware Upcycle

2010-06-11T15:53:00.001-04:00

Ok I had one of those "DUH!" moments. I have been slowly redecorating my bedroom, or should I say finally getting around to doing something in our room for a change. It seems I have decorated every other room in the house but our bedroom always came up last. So one weekend while my husband went on a fishing trip I thought I would surprise him with painting the bedroom, and changing it around a bit. Well I bit off way more than I could chew. But its coming along, I'll be posting more about that later.

Anyhow my "DUH!" moment happened when I painted our dressers. Originally they were stained but with the wood floor it clashed in color. Besides I painted the walls a Tiffany blue and the stained oak color just didn't do it for me. So I thought I would paint them black, oh my gosh they look fabulous. The problem was with the hardware, they had black hardware on them. So I thought I would go buy more modern hardware, in a stainless or those really cute glass knobs. Problem being that they cost a fortune and I'm just too cheap to spend that much on new knobs. Sooooo it dawned on me one day, HELLO spray paint them! After all I liked the shape of the old hardware so why not?

This was them before, perfecty fine hardware just not on a black dresser.

First I put on a coat of Rust-Oleum Hammered spray paint in a stainless/silver color.

Then I applied an acrylic black, and rubbed it off before it dried so it was just left in the creveses. Then a top coat of clear sealer. Voila!!

Check it out, what do you think? I saved approx. $100 for both dressers. Pretty proud of myself :)

Praise God for YOU!!!

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/wizard3_2.php##ixzz0miIcUbIS

Wednesday's Window

2010-06-09T10:49:00.006-04:00

Well here it is. It's not perfect probably needs some paint and maybe some trim. But I'm pretty proud of how it turned out. I'll have to get that handsome carpenter guy I live with to help me out with that. hehe. He loves when I come up with new projects for him to do. NOT! When we were getting the hinges I was eye balling some old doors I want to use for another project. He was quite as excited as I was.

It is four six paned windows on the bottom hinged together by old door hinges.

the top is two four paned windows hinged up so they meet at the center a form a peak. I tried to clean them but apparently they still need a good wiping.

Don't you just love hydrangeas? I have finally got some to bloom this year. They grow beatifully all over Tallahassee but just not where we live. As you can see from the picture above we have very sandy soil, the rest of Tallahassee has that beautiful red clay that holds lots of nutrients.

This poor little plant bllow has a sweet story. I planted two hydrangeas some years ago and each year I get a few leaves and nothing else. This past year we had a lot of frost and I thought I lost them for good this time. One came back just fine (still no blossoms though) and the other was just sticks. I dug it up and thought it was going to be hopeless, but I noticed a little bit of green on one of those sticks, I thought there must be life left in this poor thing after all. I stuck it in an old pot I had sitting around and put some dirt in it, gave it some water and within a week leaves started to sprout. I will have to admit the blossoms are from a new plant I bought this year. I cut a couple off the other plant and stuck them in this one for photo purposes.

I can't wait to put that coat of paint on it and bring it in the house. I have a perfect spot for it, right next to my computer so I can admire it every time I'm talking with my blog friends.

Praise God for YOU!!!

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/wizard3_2.php##ixzz0miIcUbIS

House Keeping

2010-06-07T19:57:00.001-04:00

   Here's a little run down of what's going on in the Wood household these days.

The next few weeks I am going to be tweeking with a few things to make my blog a little better. I am learning so much from fellow bloggers. Praise God there are so many of you willing to share your knowledge. Some things are so easy to change and others are a bit complicated, but in all most people can do it if you just have some confidence and are willing to put the time into it. Right now I'm working on a new header, there is a great post on it using Picassa over at Clover Lane. Now I'm just trying to get the right pictures use. So if you stop by and think your in the wrong place just look again there have just been some changes made.

    The first day of summer break is here, with three boys at home (one being 13) my cupboards are already bare and I've already heard "I'm bored, what are we doing today?" "What are we doing tomorrow?" "Are we going to do anything this summer?" But between entertaining I should be able to get some work done. I'm thinking of teaching one of them how to use the computer and do some filing, ha. As Bill Cosby said "there is no such thing as a democracy in this house" lol Maybe they won't be so bored if I put them to work, he he. No seriously I can't complain too much, they are going to leave for three weeks this summer to visit my husband's family in southern FL. I really don't know what I'm going to do with myself, I'm going to miss them. I'm relying on my new blogger friends to keep me company, hehe. I promise not to stalk you... well not too much anyway.

    Don't forget about Wednesday's Window this week. We've been working hard on getting it ready for you. I saw this idea at a local salvage shop and thought oooh I got to have one. I'll give you a small hint, it combines two loves of mine, old windows and gardening. I know you just can't wait. Don't forget I'm always looking for new ideas for repurposing old windows. If you have an old window you've repurposed I would love to feature you. Just email me, or leave a comment.

    Well I better feed the natives before they start to eat me. One good thing about summer is the lack of schedule, whoo hooo!!

Praise God for YOU!!!

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/wizard3_2.php##ixzz0miIcUbIS

Wednesday's Window

2010-06-02T14:48:00.002-04:00

It's that time again. I don't have my newest project completed so I thought I would show you an old one. After of course scouring down each window with bleach, these I put a coat of semi-gloss exterior paint. I then went to town with Delta Perm-Enamel glass paint. This paint does not have to be dried in an oven or kiln and clean up with water. The only prep is to clean the glass with alchohol before painting.

Thought this would be cute for a little princess room.

My Mom is in love with roosters so this was for her but it someone else loved roosters just as much and I ended up selling it. Sorry Mom

and I thought these were just too cute to hang for Christmas decoarations.

Enjoy your week, hope to see you back again next Wednesday. Its our last week of school around here so it is kind of hectic. As always just email me if you would be interested in sharing your widonw redo ideas.

Praise God for YOU!!!

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/wizard3_2.php##ixzz0miIcUbIS

Wednesday's Window

2010-05-26T07:39:00.007-04:00

Every Wednesday is Wednesday's Window, I will be featuring a new way to repurpose old windows. I have seen so many great ideas out there. I also have an abundance of windows, as I will explain in a minute.
So it all started some years ago when I saw an old wooden window that someone had taken these gorgeous black and white pictures iof thier children and put them in each of the panes. So I came home and searched and searched for a window and finally found one, purchased it and its still sitting waiting for me to add the pictures. Sigh... In the meantime, my husand, the carpenter, installed some new windows for someone bringing home a huge load, or at least what I thought was a huge load at the time of old windows from an old plantation home. We made all sorts of things out of them which I will show in later weeks. Then another window job came in and another and another each time bringing home more and more windows. The reason for the abundance of windows. I've had all these dreams and hopes of what to do with them but lacked motivation, and quite overwhelmed with the quantity. So I thought by featuring a new idea each week will motivate me to get something done with them. We are also selling them as is if anyone is interested.

So this week I am featuring the bulletin board you see above. For this project I started with a six pane window, the glass had broken on half of the panes already so it looked good to use for this.

At first I just cut and put into place the cork board tiles ( found at Michaels, Walmart, etc), but that was waaay too plain, it needed some personality, also the cork board itself was just too thin, it needed some meat behind it. So I thought I would stencil a design on there. Don't you hate it when you have the idea of what you want in your head, you know you have seen it somewhere but can't find it? Well that was me, I had this image of vines, leaves, flowers dancing around in my head. I searched the internet for clipart, I searched fabric suppliers for a fabric swatch I could use for a design, I searched scrapbook papers, even bedding and could not find what was in my head. So after drivng myself almost completely crazy I was walking through my sewing room and caught one of my clear stamps out of the corner of my eye. That's it that will be perfect to make a stencil.

I found my ink pad and stamped it on a piece of paper, then blew it up on the printer, it took a few tries to get the right size. Finally I was happy with the size and stuck some clear contact paper on top of the design.

Then painstakingly cut around the image with an exacto knife to make my stencil.

Placed the positive image (the piece you cut out) onto the cork board and painted all the tiles with celery green paint.

Once the contact paper was removed, this is how it came out, not too good. The image wasn't clear and it still needed more personality. So back to the drawing board, I blew up the image one more time, it needed to be more bold to show up. Cut it out again and placed the negative image on the tiles this time. I needed a color to show up on the green, at first I was going to use white but my husband thought that was too boring and since I have been added little bits of red to my kitchen I thought red would be perfect.

Here is a very blurry picture of the tiles before I put them in the window

I cut pieces of foam core to place behind the tiles to give them more meat, you could always use some sturdy cardboard also but I had an unused piece of foam core so I used that. Taped them all into place and

Voila!!!

Here's the finished product. I love that its the right mix of retro and modern. I left the window frame as it to leave that old worn character.

Praise God for YOU!!!

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/wizard3_2.php##ixzz0miIcUbIS

What's for Dinner?

2010-05-25T18:46:00.000-04:00

What's for dinner at your house tonight? We're having country style ribs with homemade bbq sauce, mashed potatoes, corn on the cob and corn bread. Sounds good don't it? I thought I would share a recipe I learned from my husbands oldest brother, the fireman. Fireman are the best cooks, hands down. This one is easy as can be.

Easy as can be Cornbread Recipe

1 box of Jiffy corn muffin mix

1 egg

7oz can of cream corn

( the small size is hard to find and is more expensive so I get a whole can and freeze the rest for later)

That's it!

Mix together, bake according to cornmuffin mix directions, can be made into bread or muffins whichever you feel like making.

MMMM...mmmm!!!! I just taste tested the ribs, boy they are good. I'll have to give you the recipe for the bbq sauce some day.

Praise God for YOU!!!

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/wizard3_2.php##ixzz0miIcUbIS

Office Redo/Organization - Part 2

2010-05-24T13:41:00.006-04:00

This is the second part of the office redo. I finally finished the bulletin board, it seemed to be a bigger task than what I first thought. I have a tendency to do that sometimes, sometimes its just hard to reign in all the ideas whirling around in my head. And its so frustrating when something doesn't come out the way you have it pictured in your head. I will have a tutorial on how I did it on Wednesday. Starting this Wednesday I will be featuring Wednesday's Window, a redo of an old window that either I or another creative blogger has come up with. You can email me or leave me a comment if you have a great idea to repurpose an old window or you have blogged about it.
Anyhow here is what my office looks like now, next on the list dealing with all the cords that seem to have multiplied and twisted themselves up. That would mean crawling on the floor under the desk, unplugging everything, untangling, coming up with a better system and making sure I plug them all back where they should be. I've read some great ideas out there in blog land but none that seem to solve my problem. Like I told you before my office is off of my kitchen but it is also right where everyone comes in and out of the house by the back/side door. So this means lots of dust and dirt so I need to come up with something to bring it up off the floor. Anyhow that will be another day and another post.

Made the butterflies out of cardstock and glued them to thumb tacks

To the right of the monitor is shelves that hold bills on the bottom

on the middle shelf I have our gardening journal and notebook with recipes I get off the internet

the top has thumb tacks , and oh the Off clip on thingy

To the right of the monitor is the thing that hold the cords to our ipods, camera, etc that I posted about before.

I found these notepad/mousepad at Michaels in the $1 isle

I thought perfect two birds with one stone

I can keep all my notes from all the great ideas I get in blogland

I made these a while ago and are hanging from the bottom of the window. I used them to keep papers from school for each child.

The window probably should have been hung a bit higher. I didn't want them to consume space on the bulletin board so I decided after I hung the window to put them on the bottom. But they are kind of hidded behind the monitor.

Praise God for YOU!!!

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/wizard3_2.php##ixzz0miIcUbIS

Office Redo/Oganization - Part One

2010-05-11T17:31:00.000-04:00

I have taken a couple online courses on organizing recently with Aby at Simplify 101.
Which is totally against my nature but I need some things simplified in my life so I have more time to do the things that are important in life, like shopping and getting great creative ideas in blogland. It seems that every day I find a new creative soul mate out there in blogland. Its so awesome to see what creative minds are out there. Anyhow back to the organizing thing. One of the projects I conquered after finishing my second course was figuring out some sort of system for my office area. This area is a desk just off my kitchen, which should technically be a breakfast nook but it just wasn't big enough for our entire family to sit there so the table just ended up being a catch all when we came in the door. This office area also serves many purposes, its the home to our only computer, home bill paying, my husband's business paperwork and invoicing as well as all the other home/ business/school related activities. So I needed a system that would stream lined since there are many things going on. Here are a couple things that I did to stream line things a bit. First thing on my list was the top drawer to the desk, it was impossible to find anything I needed, everything was just thrown in there and piled on top of each other. I looked all around in stores for something that would help me organize all my things and being that I am ~~cheap~~ I mean frugal I thought to myself I have got to have something around my house that I could repurpose and would work to hold the items that I needed on hand. I went home and started scouring my house for unused containers that I hadn't thrown out yet in one of my decluttering sessions. That's when my creative juices started to kick in and it started to get fun. I find almost everything in my house but did purchase two boxes from the $1 isle in Michaels.

1. bottom of a recipe box bought at Michaels - holds staples, and stamps for paperwork
2. cup that was sitting on my desk, all signed by my MOPS friends at convention - holds rubberbands and bandaids (I have to mention this is now empty... see post on minor set backs)
3. bottom to a facial cream container - holds paperclips
4.top to the facial cream container - holds thumb tacks
5. cardboard box that held stationary - now holds scissors, staples, tape, etc
6. was a wooden box bought from Michaels - holds pens, pencils
stashed in the back is the box of checks and checkbook

All but a couple of things that have come up missing, it still looks just like this today. I am so proud of myself, I don't think I have ever kept anything this organized this long. Each of the boxes I covered with scrapbook paper to give a clean uniform look.

I also needed some place to keep the cord to my camera and ipod cords for our family. Before there were about 20 unused misc. cords and we would have to untangle all of them to find the ones we wanted. So I have a desk organizer on top of my desk that holds incoming and outgoing paperwork for our businesses. I guess originally this little drawer was supposed to hold things like paperclips and what not but I thought it would work perfect for the cords if I wrapped them up.

I am still training myself to clear the top of my desk every day. Some days apparently I need extra training but for the most part the system seems to be working. Everything in a place and everything in its place. :)

Now for the rest of the house... the journey continues.

Praise God for YOU!!!

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/wizard3_2.php##ixzz0miIcUbIS

Double Trouble Baby Shower

2010-05-04T12:31:00.000-04:00

This past Saturday was my niece Lindsay's baby shower. We are so excited because she is having twin girls!! With all the boys around here some little girls make me very excited. I only wish I lived closer, she lives in my hometown in upstate NY, :(. Her sister Jenn was putting on the shower for her and after both of us scouring the internet and looking around at local party supply stores, we found that there wasn't much out there in line of twin decorations. So I made her a few things and shipped it up to her.

A Double Trouble banner

A diaper cake -

notice the dolls on top, one with blonde hair like Daddy and one with brown like Mommy

cupcake centerpieces (my Niece Jenn stamped footprints in the middle of the circles)

and a skirt for my niece Nykesha (Jenn's daughter)

I have to fess up, I acutally made this as an outfit to wear for Easter but it didn't get shipped out in time so it became a shower outfit instead. I bought a brown cardigan to go with it and added the same fabric roses. Waiting for pictures of her in it from my sister, just know this could take awhile. When I get more actual pictures and any other ideas they did I will post them.

Praise God for YOU!!!

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/wizard3_2.php##ixzz0miIcUbIS

Minor set backs

2010-05-01T17:41:00.000-04:00

So I'm having some minor set backs...

While trying to finish up some notebook clutches I was making for a promo I thought I was going to do for Teacher Appreciation Week and Mother's Day. I sliced my finger pretty bad with my scissors.

Who said sewing was for sissies. lol

Look for the pictures of the clutches early next week. I should have at least 6 available on Monday. They are great for moms as organizers or for teachers as well to hold note card, note pad, coupons, grocery list, you name it and small enough to fit into most purses. Have a great weekend, I'll be nursing my finger. ☺

Praise God for YOU!!!

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/wizard3_2.php##ixzz0miIcUbIS

Dishwasher Lemonade

2010-04-28T15:29:00.006-04:00

No its not a new way to make lemonade in your dishwasher. Its actually one of the most amazing new things that I have discovered recently. Over at My Frugal Lifestyle was a post about putting Kool Aid Lemonde in your dishwasher to clean it out. I will preface with I was very skeptical, I mean really Kool Aid is going to clean out all the deposits in my dishwasher and my dishes are going to sparkle again? But I thought is was worth the 20 cents for the package of lemonade. I could not believe the difference it made, I was completely blown away with the results. I tried to take a picture of how my glasses came out but I am not the best photographer but you get the idea.

You can sort of see the spots on the before glass on the left and the sparkle on the right. I was becoming so frustrated because my dishes were coming out dirtier than when I put them in. I just added one packet of the Kool Aid Lemonade (it was said that a store brand works also) and about two teaspoons of baking soda to the soap dispenser and ran it through a cycle without any dishes. The article said to use baking soda if you have not cleaned out your dishwasher in awhile or ever. Which was my case, I had used Jet Dry in other dishwashers but just not in this one. I had read about using those dishwasher cleaners but frankly it was just never in the budget, or better yet it never I was too cheap to buy them. I just had to share this wonderful new discovery with you. Thank you My Frugal Lifestyle. Planning on making some laundry soap next, as soon as I find all the products to make it, having some problems finding them.

Spring Fling today at Tip Junkie

2010-04-13T09:55:00.001-04:00

Awesome prizes are beign given away at Tip Junkie today. Head on over and enter to win. I'll let you know if I did, :)

The Next Step, sewing class

2010-03-08T18:54:00.005-05:00

This class is designed to take you to the next level. This is a base course on clothing construction. During the class you will either make a women's basic skirt or girls dress. You will learn to decode a store bought pattern, laying out and cutting your fabric, putting in a zipper and darts. Below is a list of a few patterns that you could use for this project. There are several that are available. The basic things you will be looking for are if it has a zipper and has some sort of pleats or darts.

Cost $50 per person, class size will be limited to available space. 4hr session.

Girls Dress Women's Skirt
Simplicity 9497 Simplicity2410
Simplicity 2683 NewLook 6448
Simplicity 4721
Simplicity 2430
Simplicity 2675
McCalls M5792
McCalls M5033
McCalls M6020
NewLook 6959
NewLook6884

When looking for sizing of a pattern turn the pattern over to the back side and find the chart that has body measurments. You will of course have already measured yourself or the person you are making this for. You will buy the pattern in the size of the biggest measurement. For example if you have a 24" waist but your hips are 34". You will need to buy the size pattern that corresponds with your hips measurement. You will find the amount of fabric in yards that you will need to buy on that chart as well. There is a list of suggested fabrics for your garment and any notions you may need to complete the project.

Supplies Needed
Fabric for your garment, its best to use a light weight cotton for your first project since it is the easiest to work with. The fabric will need to be washed before coming to class
All notions for your garment, buttons, zipper, hook and eye
Pattern
Thread in corresponding color to match fabric
Basic sewing supplies.
You will also need a place big enough to lay out pattern onto fabric and cut it out. A dining room table usually works quite well for this.

Sewing machine review - part two

2010-02-18T16:07:00.003-05:00

For the intermediate sewer these machines are great for someone with some experience or for a beginner that wants a machine to grow with. They are all electronic and offer special features for ease of operation if you are going to be using it often.

Brother - CS6000i online only$199.99Target, JoAnn,Best Buy
$184.76 Walmart
Automatic buttonhole feature,automatic needle threader, automatic bobin winder, reverse, auto needle postion up/down ( this is great for projects with lots of corners, it allows you to set the machine to stay in a up or down position when you stop) Rated top machine for intermediate machines by consumersearch.com.

Brother - CE 5000PRW $139.97 Walmart
5styles of 1 step buttonholer, good on thick fabric, auto needle threader, fast bobbin winding, quick set bobbin, auto needle postion up/down. This is part of the Project Runway series.

Singer Precision 7444 $199.99 JoAnn
$179.99Target
50 stitch choices, 2fully automatic 1step buttonholer, free arm, auto tension. As I was reading through the consumer reviews most were good but there were a few that said the same thing that they had problems with the tension and had to have the bobbin case replaced because the needle kept hitting it, which was due to a timing problem.

Singer - EsteemII 2273 $129.99Target
Reverse, dial a stitch, built in thread cutter, instructional DVD, free arm, automatic buttonholer.

Like I said before I have not personally used any of these machine. I do know that both companies have been around forever and produce quality products. Both have fairly comparable products. You can also try going into your local quilt supply store, sewing machine store etc. They have very knowledgeable sales people, will let you try out the machines, as well may offer some intoductory classes to show you how to use the machine. Remember however they are paid by commision and they always going to say their product is the best. There are pros and cons to buying both places. Have fun and don't let it overwhelm you, you will most likely know right away if you like the machine you bought. If you don't you can always return, your not married to it.

Sewing maching review

2010-02-18T15:31:00.002-05:00

Have you gone to the sewing machine store or local Walmart and been completely confused about which machine to get? Well your not alone, as I was going through the process I realized it is very confusing, they all seem the same after a while. After many hours on the computer I have compiled a list of machines I think would be a good buy for someone who is just starting out. Let me starty by saying I am not paid in any way shape or form by the manufacturer or retail stores. This also a review from my research of machines I found on the internet at our local stores and I have not personally used them myself. That being said here is what I found...

For the basic beginner who thinks all they will ever do is an occasional hemline or basic craft project here is a list of machines for you. Good machines for the money. Both companies have been around a very long time and improved their technology as time passed. I'm sure you all remember your mom or grandmother with an old all metal Singer or Brother that was permenantly fixed in a cabinet.

Brother - LX 3125 $79.97 @Walmart
lightweight and compact, 35 stitch function, automatic 4step buttonholer, quick winding bobbin, free arm, built in accessory storage, and instructional video

Brother - XL 2600i $114.00 Walmart.com
this machine was recomended by consumersearch.com for a beginner machine. They listed the top five machines at all levels.

Singer - Simple 2263 $89.97 Walmart
4 -step buttonholer, needle threader, free arm, lightweight and portable

Singer - Portable 2250 $89.99 Target
another great starter machine, same basic features

...see next post for intermediate machine reviews

Sewing Virgin Class

2010-02-17T20:56:00.005-05:00

This class is geared toward the very purest, never touched a sewing machine beginner. I will start by helping you familiarize yourself with your machine, take you through a few basic seam techniques, sewing on a button, hemming basic pants/skirts/dresses, and finishing with a cute sewing clutch project to hold all your basic supplies. This is a 6hr course. It can be divided into two three hour increments or done all in one afternoon.

Cost $60.00 per person**

Supply list

Your own sewing machine with manual
spool of thread - any color white is the most versatile
package of sewing machine needles (look in your machine manual for specific needles for your machine)
Scissors - sharp only used for cutting fabric
package of straight pins - can have ball tops or not doesn't matter
tape measure
seam ripper
package of hand sewing needles - variety of sizes
3 ring binder

** I will offer a 20% discount if you are interested in hosting three or more friends in your home

Sewing Classes

2010-02-17T20:47:00.005-05:00

So I've decided it would be fun to teach other people how to sew without ever leaving their own home. I feel it is such a lost skill, that is truly greatly needed. I have had many people come to me and say that they would love to learn how to hem pants or sew curtains for their home. Or they have been given a sewing machine but it has sat in the closet since they got it because they have no idea what to do with it. And worst of all they got their sewing machine, mastered how the general workings of the machine, bought all the supplies for their first project, started the project only to get frustrated at the second step in the pattern. If that describes any of you, you are not alone. I am offering several different classes from never touched a sewing machine beginner to intermediate garment construction and a few fun things along the way. In the following posts you will find the list of classes, the cost for each class and a general list of supplies. Happy sewing everyone!! Email me if you are interested in taking one of my classes doristoday@gmail.com

National Apron Day!!

2009-05-11T17:34:00.002-04:00

Happy Apron Day!!!

Happy Spring!!!

2009-03-10T16:59:00.005-04:00

I know its been awhile since my last post but I have a short recap for you of what's been going on. I guess I'll kind of work with the present and work my way backward. Due to the fact that I can not button not one pair of my pants I am on day two of detoxifying and working out. Oh my goodness I thought I was going to die yesterday. How on earth could I let myself go like that? We all know it gets harder and harder to lose weight the older you get yet I have sat complacent for way too long, I haven't been myself since my youngest was born but I was at least able to maintain one size, even if it wasn't the size I wanted to be. I just couldn't take it, now it is getting warmer and my INNER thighs have cellulite on them. I know that's a pretty picture to paint isn't it? I'll be sure to check back with you all in a couple of days just to let you know that I haven't died, lol. Well the rest of this post will explain what has brought me to this point.

We have planted a garden, well we have started planting a garden. We are so proud of it, we have had intentions of starting a garden ever since we moved into our house seven years ago. After having a third child and very busy schedule it just didn't ever happen. Well since my youngest has started kindergarten and we have been spending more time at home we thought now was the best time. A friend of ours came over to till the soil with his rotatiller, and the first thing we decided we needed to do was put a fence around it. Why you might ask? Some may think it is to keep the wild critters out, nope not us. As soon as the first patch of dirt was dug up both our lovely dogs were there laying in it looking like big ole pigs. They're a mess, literally. This past weekend we planted some tomatoes and cucumber and are just waiting on the rest of our seeds to sprout.

There's nothing better than digging your hands in the dirt and seeing watching life grow. Look how awesome it is to see those cute little seedlings peeking up above the soil.

I had to share these photos. The first week of my weight loss includes protein shakes, egg whites, oatmeal, chicken breast or fish and lots of veggies. So that being said I was in need a new blender. The old one had ground up dog food for our puppies we had and had just seen better days. So I found one on clearance at Walmart not expecting much since there were a lot better models there. When I got it home to make my first shake I was amazed at how fast and well it ground up the ice cubes. With my old one (before the dog food) I had to take a few ice cubes at a time and put them in a baggy and crush them up with a butter knife. Then add them to my shake mixture and still I would have large chunks that never would grind. This one I just put in my liquid, add whole ice cubes and push the button. I see life through new eyes now.

I'm not quite sure why one of those pictures came on there twice and I can't seem to figure out how to delete it so for now enjoy by little darlings twice. I have had to get everyone on board eating healthy so I thought since I have to this fancy new blender I guess smoothies would make a great after school snack. It's good for them and it keeps me from watching them eat cookies, Little Debbie snacks and all that other bad stuff. I made more when my oldest came home from middle school but he wasn't so cooperative about having his picture taken. URGGH middle schoolers!!

The weather here has turned gorgeous, thank God. I've had the windows open and loving the fresh air. While I was writing this I heard this strange noise and I thought what on earth is that. LOL it was my air conditioner turning on, it has been so long since I have heard it I forgot what it sounded like. The younger two boys have started baseball, we get uniforms on Thursday so I'll post some pictures then. I have also been finishing a project I started last fall, refinishing our dining room table. It was before I started blogging so I dont have before pictures I'll just have to post the after ones. I'll give you the background on it then.

I know I told you that you would see the spring line soon, I didn't lie, I'm working on it. I'm also working on the sewing 101 post. You'll see them both very soon.

Belated Happy Valentines Day

2009-02-18T14:49:00.005-05:00

Look what my creative little monsters did when I wasn't looking. They had a card for all their Grandparents even Great Grandma is NY. I was very impressed they came up with such a thing without any prompting.

Aren't they beautiful? My sweetie, Lisa over at Blossom's florist gave them to me. I had an awesome time delivering flowers over Valentines Day for Blossoms. I even made a man blush, that's the best. His girlfriend had sent him a huge arrangement at work... at a plumbing store. Boy was he getting harrassed by his coworkers. It's always good to make someone's day!

Well we are back to reality now. Still working on the spring line. I can't wait for you all to see it. Just think SPRING!!! :))

Eggs, it what's for dinner...

2009-02-08T13:10:00.005-05:00

and lunch, and breakfast and snack. Wow my parents' chickens have been busy laying some eggs. My father brought me this huge box of eggs the other day, Now I"m trying to figure out what to do with them. There is nothing better than a fresh eggs straight from the chicken. Hence the discolorations on some of them. lol

Anyhow Oh my gosh can you believe it is February already? This new site that I just found is doing an awesome giveaway for the month of February. They are giving away a set of 500 count sheets and pillows from Bedding bliss. Check out the Secret's in the Sauce button on the right. If you are a fellow blogger you definately need to check it out.

Well its a beautiful day here in Tallahassee today. So I am off to take the kids to park and the car wash. I probably should take the dogs to the dog wash but maybe another time. Yes they actually have a dog wash, now if only they had a kid wash our lives would be complete. lol

Talk to you again soon,

Picture, Picture, Pictures!!

2009-01-23T17:07:00.000-05:00

Hello and a special thank you to all that purchased items from me. You have all been so wonderful and I hate to ask any more of you but I am anyway. Will you please send me pictures of item you purchased or I made for you for Christmas. I would love to see my products put to use in every day situations! Just note if you would not like them shared with the rest of the cyber world.

History of "Aprons"

2009-01-16T15:01:00.000-05:00

My father brought me this newspaper clipping from the "Farm Show" paper the other day and thought I would share it with you.

Do your kids know what an apron is? I'm not sure mine do because my wife never uses one. But her grandma did.
The principle use, of course, was to protect the dress underneath but, along with that, it served as a potholder for removing hot pans from the oven.
It was also wonderful for drying children's tears, and on occasion was even used for cleaning out dirty ears.
From the chicken coop, the apron was used for carrying eggs. When company came, those aprons were ideal hiding places for shy kids. And when the weather was cold, grandma wrapped it around her arms. Chips and kindling wood were brought into the kitchen in that apron. From the garden, it carried all sorts of vegetables. After the peas had been shelled, it carried out the hulls.
When unexpected company drove up the road, it was surprising how much furniture that old apron could dust in a matter of seconds. And when dinner was ready,it served as a flag to call the men in from the fields to dinner. It will be a long time before someone invents something that will replace the old-time apron that served so many purposes.

I just love this perspective on the history of an apron. What is says to me is that, especially now in our economic down turn, that it is the memories that we make that is important not the money we make or the things we have. It also makes me think why on earth did we get away from wearing aprons? My grandmother wore them on brief occasions but my great grandmother always had one on. I ask you to ask yourself the question, are we really that independent that we can't be seen wearing an apron? Is the apron really going to hinder our feminism movement? I say celebrate your womanhood, wear your aprons and make some memories with your family.

Be checking back, by popular demand I am starting a sewing 101 tutorial. It will give you the very basics of using your machine to hemming your pants and other small projects. Not that I want you to put me out of business, lol, but I just feel that sewing is a lost skill that is handy to have. And I would love to share it with all of you.

Happy New Year!!!

2009-01-15T16:26:00.000-05:00

The puppy on the right is actually Lucy when she was just a few weeks old. Oh how they grow! :))

Well I have finally come out of my holiday induced comma. Most people get all fired up after Christmas and make their new years resolutions. Not me, after the craziness of getting everything ready for Christmas. After packing all the gifts up for three boys and traveling to my in laws in Melbourne, then spending a week there. I was so exhausted I went into a pure vegetative state. Yes I am proud to say my Christmas decorations are still up, I'll get to that this weekend or maybe some time next week. Ha!! The good news is I am refreshed and inspired with new ideas for a spring apron line. I am going to be updating my esty shop and picking out the shows for the new year. OH so much to do, I guess that is why I needed that little break in there.

In the next few weeks you all will be the first to preview the new Spring line. I will be adding some new women's styles, expanding the girls line with more sizes and by popular demand adding a men's line. Here is a quick glimpse of one man's apron I made for my father for Christmas. Check out the wood grain fabric, how cool is that!!

Etsy Shop!!!!

2008-12-03T10:57:00.000-05:00

My etsy shop is finally open. YEAH!!!!! You can check out my items at www.doristoday.etsy.com. This is a great web site dedicated solely to handcrafted items. Take a look around while your there. There are some really amazing things people have created. I'll be adding items slowly so be sure to check back frequently.

***New Coffee Cozies

2008-12-02T19:11:00.001-05:00

These make wonderful teacher gifts when paired with a Starbucks gift card, or pretty mug. They are adjustable so you wrap them around your store bought coffee or your coffee mug at home. You can also put it around a water bottle or other soft drink to keep it from dripping down your elbow. Come in an assortment of colors. They are $6.00 a piece or 2/$10.00

The help

2008-12-02T18:58:00.000-05:00

They thought they would help me take pictures today. Thank goodness they decided to play by themselves instead. Not that you can recognize her but this is Lucy with her puppy.

This is Daisy which is Lucy's mother.

New Items

2008-12-02T18:05:00.003-05:00

This is another "Sisters" made in from a pink and brown polka dot, trimmed in brown.

"Sisters" this is dedicated to all my Sisters in Christ. This one is made from a black and white check with darling cherries dancing around. It has a fitted top with full skirt.

This is the "Jenn". Also made from Amy Butler's Belle Collection. It has a drawstring halter top with a-line bottom.

This is will certainly put you in the Christmas Spirit, or not. This is a Christmas Leah.

This is another Leah. It is made from Amy Butlers Belle Collection.

Rained Out Craft Show

2008-12-02T17:55:00.000-05:00

Well I got one picture before we got rained out. My mother and I were in Climax,GA this past Saturday. Boy was it miserable trying to pack everything in the cold rain. We'll be in Marianna on Friday for their Christmas festival and parade.

Why Doris Today?

2008-11-19T16:16:00.000-05:00

Why Doris Today you might ask? Well let me give you the shortened version of my journey of naming my business. I started with figuring out what my shop would look like and what it would feel like. My designs all have a classic retro flare to them but are made for fun modern day living. I've always been a vintage soul at heart so that comes out in my designs. I know I wanted to start with a line of aprons but I didnt' want to be cornered by that. You never know where my mind will end up next. Wait till you see my line of handbags, totes, and many other accesories. Doris Day seems to emcompass all of what I wanted my business to be. Yes she was wholesome and beautiful but she was also multitalented being able to sing, dance, and act all the while raising her family. Doesn't that sound just like a modern day woman? Whether we work full time or work at home full time, whether we have children or not, we are always juggling several things at once. And who doesn't like to look good doing it?

So your next question might be why aprons? Well let me explain, this is not your Grandma's apron. Our aprons have more style and much more figure flattering. To quote fashion and textile designer, Amy Butler, "Aprons are so much more than splash guards. In my opinion they are to daily fashion what pillows are to interiors." I could not have said it better. Whether you are protecting your clothes or spicing up an outfit aprons are a must have to any wardrobe. Especially a Doris Today apron. All my aprons are a tribute to women who have inspiried me in my life. If you don't see your name featured yet, stay tuned its coming.

Please check back regularly to see what else I have come up with. If you don't like exactly what you see here and would like something custom made just email me at doristoday@gmail.com and we will work it out.

Thanks again for stopping by and being part of my new adventure.

Reversable "Donna"

2008-11-19T16:07:00.000-05:00

This a reversable version of our "Donna" apron. This is fully lined with coordinating fabric. $30.00

Donna

2008-11-19T15:32:00.001-05:00

"Donna" is a half A-line apron designed for those who don't want to add more embellishment to your top half. It fun and easy to throw on whether your cooking for your family or throwing a dinner party. Or just want to look like you slaved all day in the kitchen. Available in many color combinations. $30.00

Full Aprons - Leah

2008-11-19T15:22:00.001-05:00

This is "Leah", it is the first of our full apron line. It has a retro halter top that accetenuates a smaller bust. The A-line skirt flows gracefully over your bottom half. Available in several color combinations. $40.00 SOLD

Selah

2008-11-19T15:15:00.001-05:00

This is "Selah" . She will look so sweet with mommies coordinationg apron. This is a full bib apron with scalloped bottom as well as a collar detail at the top. $25.oo

Lizzie and Selah

2008-11-19T15:08:00.001-05:00

This is part of our Mommy and Me collection. Full aprons are also available for mom, as well as half aprons for child

This is "Lizzie". You will love the scalloped edge detail and flap pockets on this apron. The ties are long enough so you can wrap around to the front or leave behind. $30.00

Hannah Montana

2008-11-19T09:53:00.000-05:00

I had my doubts but i actually think the custom Hannah Montana apron came out pretty darn cute. I can't wait to see some pictures of Kayley in it. Thank you Kristen.

skateboarding Birthday

2008-11-14T15:21:00.000-05:00

Last weekend we took Mason and his friend to the skatepark for his birthday. Yes Daddy had to show off too. The weather could not have been more beautiful. I sat nicely in the sun and read an Amy Butler book that my mother let me borrow.

NEW BLOG

2008-11-13T13:10:00.001-05:00

Welcome to my new blog. I know your thinking what a ditz this woman is. Just bear with me a little bit while I work out some the kinks. Now if I can get this kink out of my neck I'll be all right. We are officially Doris Today, our look may change slightly also as I have found some great new softwear to make this blog look alot nicer. I will be uploading some new products this week as well. I have also oredered some new fabric so drop by and check out what new ideas I have for that. If I am not completly blind by this afternoon I will have things up and running by tomorrow afternoon and ready to open my etsy store as well.