Nonerz Out Loud!

New Blog..VictoriousVixen.com

2010-05-19T16:03:00.000-07:00

Hi there!

Thanks so much for stopping by. =) I am no longer posting to this blog...please come and visit me here:

VictoriousVixen.com

Christopher

2010-02-28T17:33:00.001-08:00

Can u work with pic, nani?

good news...

2009-06-04T20:45:00.001-07:00

dinner didn't suck!
--Nani

Wallets, Fun Tote & Sneak Peeks

2009-05-08T01:16:00.000-07:00

I've been doing a LOT of sewing lately! I finally got a good stack of wallets made - 5 for my sister's friend & co-worker Geneva. Here they are, along with a few others I recently finished.

Yaaay for finished projects!!! =) It feels GREAT to see all these wallets together. Woo-hoo!

Here's one that resembles Susan's wallet...minus the dragon on the front! (This is one of Geneva's.)

I call this one "Bright & Funky Dragon." (Another one of Geneva's.)

Here's a little more detail for you...yes, I freehand the signature "V" myself. This is FUN!

Another Asian Inspired wallet with Asian Eyes inside. (maybe for Mary or Conchi?)

I like to wrap the wallets in a simple brown paper bag & tie it with coordinating scrappy strips of fabric. It's like a sneak peek into the package...who doesn't like to unwrap a package anyhow?! Tuck in my business card & it's ready to roll!

Here's a fun little tote bag I whipped up last week. It was a take on the log cabin blocks I recently made for Project Improv. I love these prints together...it's bright & funky & fun. I'm calling it the little "Zebra Lemonade" tote. It's about 7" square & quilted.

Did some freemotion doodling here, repeating the pattern from the yellow fabric.

Zebra lining...and on the handles too!

Here's the back...quilted with love. I have 4 more log cabins like this, so I could make 4 more similar to this...or something else???? Matchy little pouch?

Kyra trying out the little "Zebra Lemonade" tote bag. She put this on her shoulder & carried it all over the place. When I asked for it back, she didn't want to give it back to me! She decided to carry her chapstick, gum & water bottle in the bag...too cute!

***SNEAK PEEKS!!!***

Here is an Asian Inspired wallet that is in progrss. Working that decorative stitching again...and some more echo type quilting in the red.

Here's another new quilt top...this will be a new SIZE...BIGGER and with a ZIPPER! It will be much like a clutch & the front will be bigger to showcase the Asian faces.

More decorative & freemotion quilting...I used veriegated thread for both. The scallops remind me of dragon scales!

************************************************************************************

We've been keeping busy with other things too...like painting! Here's Kyra's new art...fun, fun, fun! It's always fun to see what my little ones will create.

Kyra...the newest gamer in the family. She just got this Nintendo DS from her auntie. Too bad daddy keeps jacking it from her!!!

I've been putting the girls to work! Everyone gets a sponge & cleans SOMEthing! =) This is helping our "ant" situation...they like to invade our house this time of the year. I've been forced into "Spring Cleaning" against my will thanks to the ants! They find every crumb and attack. It's not easy to keep up with my girls & their messes, so I've enlisted their help! I just love this picture of Ava & Kyra cleaning their little table. Kyra is a champ is does a great job cleaning for me. Ava...I'm lucky if she doesn't make a new mess while we clean! LOL, oh well!

Ready for juicing!!! Peaches, carrots, apples, oranges, ginger, lemon, mango, cilantro, garlic, beets, cantalope, watermelon, red cabbage and the kitchen sink! I've been juicing for my dad, hence the ginger, cilantro, garlic & red cabbage. Today I pulled a bunch of stuff out of the fridge to rinse & prepare for juicing. I have a kick butt Breville juicer that I am so very happy with. I purchased it refurbished on eBay last year. Saved a $100 that way! =)

5th Generation Wallets

2009-05-01T23:25:00.000-07:00

Here are my 5th Generation wallets with heavy interfacing for a super sturdy feel. 1 Asian inspired & 3 Spring Inspired. I will be taking these with me to the Spring Fling carnival this morning as samples for people to order. Wish me luck!

More Wallets...and Chaos

2009-04-29T20:38:00.000-07:00

Here is the wallet I made last week for Vanessa. She requested the Bright & Funky wallet with skulls.

Here are the four (of many) wallets I worked on this past week...sending my girls to the in-laws for some serious sewing time! They have since been finished & look oh-so-sassy! I use binder clips to hold everything in place before I slipstitch the bottom closed.

I tried out some of the decorative stitches on my machine...and I LOVE how it turned out with the verigated thread...I see more of this in my future.

I have 3 more (potential) wallets coming out of the black/red/white geometric pieced top that I posted earlier and a few more Asian Inspired & Funky Fresh (bright w/animal print, etc) wallets too. I started on another black/red/white pieced top...they are so fun to put together! I also picked up some cute Michael Miller fabric with mermaids on it...super cute!

With all this sewing going on, my girls aren't getting as much fun mommy time as they are used to...which sometimes causes sudden outbursts of craziness. They had fun having a naked bead throwing party after their bath yesterday...I was on the phone with my dad & they took advantage of my distraction!!!! I just sighed & scampered off to grab my camera...figured I might as well get a picture! I did manage to get Kyra to sweep most of them into a big pile...now THAT was Victorious! lol!

Giveaway Goodness & Angel Game

2009-04-27T01:12:00.000-07:00

The Fabric Shopper is having a cool giveaway...hope I (or you) win!!!!

http://the-fabric-shopper.blogspot.com/2009/04/introducing-4-weeks-of-modkid-giveaways.html

I've been sewing up a storm and have 4 more wallets to finish up tomorrow, and several more coming! I'll give you some new pics of my goodies real soon. For now, I leave you with this fun picture from the Angel game today! =)

Sneak Peeks

2009-04-23T13:47:00.000-07:00

Here are some things I'm working on...coming soon to a wallet near you!!!

Susan's Quilted Passport Wallets

2009-04-19T23:45:00.001-07:00

Susan's Quilted Passport Wallets, originally uploaded by Nonerz.

Here's a teaser pic of my latest 2 finished projects!

Want to win something? Go here: http://thefarmchicks.typepad.com/farmchicks/2009/04/happy-spring-giveaway.html

Now I'm off to bed...

Project Improv

2009-03-29T23:56:00.000-07:00

I joined Project Improv at the last minute...last week! I committed to making at least 1 wonky log cabin block for charity & the deadline is April 1st. I really busted my tail to get these done...and it was my first time to top it off! I ended up making 2 for charity & 1 for me. Here is what I learned while making these fun blocks...

I need to use THICKER strips as I work to the outside...they were getting sooooo small!
It really sucks to over trim...measure twice & cut once...correctly!!!!
Minky is not easy to quilt with!
I prefer to press the seams open vs. to one side...it just lays so much flatter & nicer!
If you sew over pins, you'll hit them eventually (or often if you're me)!
I REALLY liked using Mary Ellen's Best Press (clear startch alternative)...makes the fabric nice & crisp & easy to work with.
If you iron your raised dots brown minky fabric, you will no longer have raised dots!!!!
I get really attached to my work..
I really love sewing.
I can't wait to do more sewing for charity.

Next time, I think I'll use lots more variety in the thickness of the strips. The minky was harder to work with, but I just LOVE texture and it seemed to work well with my blocks. I think I'll use more courdoroy too...it was very cooperative for me & added that texture that I love.

Block #1

The white is minky, the brown strips on the outside are minky w/raised dots, the brown strips inside are corduroy. I had to add the Michael Miller Hawaiian girl print in each one since I am part Hawaiian! =)

Block #2

Block #3 - This is the one I kept...it's also the one I over trimmed!

P.S. I literally kissed the blocks before I sent them off in the mail...it was hard to let them go but I know they will be put to good use! Find out more about Project Improv here: http://tallgrassprairiestudio.blogspot.com/2009/01/project-improv-wont-you-join-me.html

Dog Gone Cute!

2009-03-24T00:16:00.000-07:00

New fabric...washed, pressed & folded! Now I'm ready to go!

Today was a bit of a lazy day...we are not feeling 100%, but as far as colds go, this is a breeze! So I am thankful for the quick turn around time for this bug...silly to say, but true! I was hoping to cut up some of my new fabric & sew today...didn't happen since I took a nap with Kyra in her bed...it's a converted crib! Man, I was tired!

Jordan came over again (and will be back tomorrow) while his mommy is in Canada. He had a hard time being dropped off this morning, which is unusual at my house! He typically is in great spirits & can't wait to play with the girls. He is missing his mama! No worries though...my girls got him playing in no time!

We took another nature walk...without my camera this time. Those darn batteries were dead again! Oh-well...I'm hoping the few shots I did manage to take in the morning turned out good. I am still taking pictures everyday & editing when I get a chance.

Yesterday, my softball game did NOT get cancelled, despite the rain in the early morning. I wanted to get some good shots of the sunset (I'm loving the sky, cloud, sun pics lately) while I was at the park...but it was a little too late for any good quality pictures. I spotted this cute little guy in the crowd & asked to take a couple shots. His name is Brody & his owner tells me he does NOT like his cute little sweater even though he is so dog gone cute with it on! He's my pick for Sunday's P365 pic of the day. What a face!

Pics, Pics...and more Pics!

2009-03-21T21:14:00.000-07:00

We’ve been on a park craze this past week, going almost every day! It sure has been a lot of fun and good exercise since I walk there (and lately I’ve been having Kyra walk too). One of our highlights was playing ball with the girls before my softball game on Sunday. We packed up the waffle balls & bats, loaded up some sandwiches & snacks & headed for the park!

Ava likes to pick up the cones & stack them up, despite my efforts to keep them in place! She’s here in this pic, trying to hit the ball off the tee.

Daddy & Kyra are having a blast in the background!

Kyra is a natural athlete & really enjoys hitting the ball. I just love how this pic turned out with the sun peeking through, her swinging pigtail braids & the twist of her shoes on the grass. Plus as a bonus, Ava made it in the shot! This was my pick for the Project 365 pic of the day last Sunday.

After a while, Ava kinda lost interest in the ball, and wanted to try on my shades. She loves to try on hats of all sorts, eyeglasses, shoes or any other accessories! She’s getting so big and is now putting 2 words together.

I have seen a couple tutorials on how to make your own dress form using duct tape & wanted to try it out. So I picked up some purple duct tape from Jo-Anns the last time I was there & asked my hubby to tape me up!

Believe it or not…there IS a method to this madness! You start with an old t-shirt & cut up the side seams. I sewed another 12” to the bottom (like a skirt) using another old t-shirt. Then you start taping the spine up & down in rows, then the waist. Then you tape from the back to the front in a v-shaped taper. It goes on and on…

Here are a few pics I just had to have my hubby take of me!

I felt like a samurai warrior or something in this deal! HI-YAH!!!!!

And here it is after we cut it off me & re-taped the back…now just to stuff it!

I was so excited when both of the packages I was waiting for arrived on Wednesday! The first was a big box filled with fabric!!!! Thanks so much to materialshoppegirl.etsy.com for awesome customer service & quick shipping. I am in heaven here with all this beautiful fabric! Take a peek at all this goodness!

Heather Bailey, Joel Dewberry, Amy Butler, Anna Marie Horner and more!

My business cards came in as well. I got 100 free from my favorite place, OvernightPrints.com . They have awesome quality, quick turnaround & good prices. I use them for all my postcards, business cards, birth announcements & nice invitations. They have a nice (and free) UV coating which adds strength & thickness to them…not to mention a nice glossy look. I added the rounded corners for just $2 more…keeps them from getting bent & messy looking.

I designed these myself!

Wednesday was more exciting than I had hoped. Ava took a header off our little slide on to the concrete driveway! I almost caught her, but she fell forward off the slide, hit her head on the ground & flipped all the way around into my arms. Luckily, she didn’t have much of a bump (we had a hard time finding it until it showed itself) and not even a scratch! You can hardly see her red mark on her forehead by her hairline. This was taken a couple hours after impact!

I was trying to get some pics of the girls on the slide (before the incident) & managed to get this one of Kyra, telling me, “no pictures!” It reminds me of a celebrity with a case of paparazzi paranoia! I chose it for my P365 pic.

It was certainly an exhausting day, and even Kyra was wiped out! Here I snapped this shot of her in her bed with several books strewn about! There are three on her left, at least one under her pillow & the mini Horton book on the floor next to her! My little bookworm…I LOVE YOU!

Thursday brought our little friend, Jordan! We had fun reading stories, dancing, playing ball & exploring the “river” in the backyard. Here they are, all lined up on the couch watching Dora & Diego! Talk about a captive audience!

Out of nowhere, Kyra wasn’t feeling well & had a little fever. I should have known something was wrong when she didn’t eat any graham crackers! She’s feeling better but now Ava has a runny nose…sheesh!

Here she is in my P365 pic of the day for Thursday with Arthur, getting some good face time. She’s talking to him about the cool Barbie fishing pole she carried around at Target the day before. She wants it and she wants to go fishing! This reminded me of my experiences fishing with my dad & sister at El Dorado park. I couldn’t stand to see the fish flopping around & gasping for air! It was so sad! I liked hanging out & being outside in the (somewhat) fresh air. Good times nonetheless.

Today I got a great little shot of Kyra getting her hug on Ava. She told me she just wanted to give her a hug. Ava wasn’t so thrilled, but that’s okay. I appreciate what a loving sister Kyra is & she certainly is affectionate as well! This is my P365 pic for today…“holding on.”

Another walk…more stops to smell the flowers & check out the bugs. We had a nice conversation with a crow…he squawked, we squawked, etcetera, etc.! It was actually really cool but I had no idea what he was saying. The girls got a kick out of it and enjoyed the back and forth bantering.

I have been talking to my girls about everything and anything…counting at every opportunity, pointing out colors & talking about the differences between things. It’s a conscience effort to teach all the time. I am putting an emphasis on reading, arts & crafts, physical fun & sign language. I actually enjoy all of those things! I’m hoping hubby will pick up the slack in the math department. Kyra is coming along with her writing skills & can sound out many words. I haven’t done any aggressive reading programs with her; just instilling a love for books is the main thing. Thankfully, it is paying off with both of my girls. Ava can often be seen curling up with a couple books by herself! She is extremely vocal & is saying new words everyday.

I know that I am very blessed to be able to stay at home with my girls.
It’s worth more than any amount of money that anyone could pay me for the time I have with them now.

Fight Club

2009-03-14T23:54:00.001-07:00

2009.03.14 fight club, originally uploaded by Nonerz.

That's my P365 pic above...we went to see some cool amateur fights in La Mirada tonight. They turned the lights down during the fights, so all my pics were lousy! I did what I could and actually liked how it turned out.

It was an intimate venue...way cool & close to the action! I'll be going again for sure. Congrats to Justin on your first fight! I can't wait to see you in the cage...

Anyhow, Ava is doing great...no problems with her eyes although she does still have some tearing. We'll know better if the surgery was succesful in the next few days and her follow up appointment is next Thursday.

Tomorrow I have 2 softball games. I'm ready to get out some of my crazy energy that was built up from watching all those fights! I'm thinkin that I'm gonna crush the ball tomorrow!!!! Woo-hoo! Let's hope my defense improves from last week.

I just ordered some fabric from this cool shop: materialgirlshoppe.etsy.com. 11.5 yards of beautiful fabric!!!!!! All in fat quarters so I can have lots to play with. Amy Butler, Heather Bailey, Valori Wells, Anna Maria Horner & Joel Dewberry!!! I am using my babysitting money to buy all this goodness & I can't wait to start some new projects (as always)!

Post-op

2009-03-12T23:52:00.000-07:00

Ava had outpatient surgery this morning to fix her teary eyes! They had to probe her tear ducts on both eyes to stretch/enlarge them to allow proper drainage. It's a quick & simple procedure, but since they put her under anesthesia, it still had risks...minimal, but risks nonetheless.

We were up at 5 AM, out the door at 5:30 & at the hospital just after 6 AM! Ava was pretty good considering she was hungry, tired & in a strange place with lots of strange people poking around at her. I was able to go in with her to the operating room while they administered the gas...she did soooooo good, didn't scream, fuss or anything with the mask. She was very cooperative...then she was asleep! They scooped her out of my arms and layed her gently on the table. I gave her kisses and off I went, back to the waiting room for 10 whole minutes until they were done!

She's doing great & was able to resume life as normal by the time we got home...before lunchtime! Here is my P365 pic of the day...since the nurse in the recovery room offered to take a picture with the three of us. They were laughing because I brought my camera & was taking pics of Ava's little foot with the IV & monitor! I don't want to forget this day...she'll never be this exact size again!

I started my first quilt (other than my monstrous Hawaiian quilt) this past weekend and am so pumped because I finished piecing my quilt top! It's a disappearing 9 patch, but I only used 5 prints instead of 9. Here's all my lovely pieces ready to be sewn...I love all those pins & how cool they look all stacked up.

I did the chain thingy...where you sew the blocks back to back so they are all attached. Sew cool!!! (I know, I'm corny). My hubby had to stand waaaay back for me and I still didn't get them all in the pic.

Here's the top all put together. I'm working on a few ideas using freemotion stitching...maybe some decorative stitching (I'm loving that leaf stitch and it's oh-sew-easy)! I'm also thinking about the back...gotta make it special!

I am excited to keep sewing & make stuff I like. I'm gearing up to sell my stuff at Grace School's Spring Fling Carnival in Huntington Beach in May...and ideas for me on what I should make? I'd love to hear what you have to say or any tips you have for a fellow crafter! =)

Victorious Vixen

2009-02-28T21:41:00.000-08:00

Announcing....

Victorious Vixen! My very own Etsy shop...featuring custom creations a la Nani. =)

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6978804

These are handmade quilted wallets that double as a clutch. What'cha think of 'em?! I've sold several already in person (I have yet to actually post anything online for sale!) & have had a great response from people. Thanks guys - YOU ROCK!

So now you know what I've been up to...no, I didn't fall of the face of the earth! =)

Here is my P365 pic for yesterday. These are strips of a FREE book I got from my local library. I have no idea what it says, but I thought it would look great on a bookmarker with some of my Asian inspired fabric & stitching...

Miso crafty!!
=)

I have not been running in soooo long! The weather was nice today so I took the girls for a nature walk. There were sporting the first 2 dresses I made...pretty cute & it made me feel extra crafty! I managed to get this shot as we were walking home holding hands. It is my P365 runner-up for today...I just loved seeing me & my girls together in shadow form!

While we were out and about tonight, I snapped this one of the sky on Moody St. It's my P365 pic for today...a very fitting title too:

I loved how the sky looked tonight as the sun was setting on the west coast. The clouds were so bright & the sky so blue. No matter where we are in the world, it's the same sky we look up to.

I'm so glad to blog & post up some pics! =) I've been a very busy girl setting up my Etsy shop (almost there...) but still taking pics every day for future tinkering & posting!

She's Baa-aack! =)

2009-02-10T08:43:00.000-08:00

YAAAAAAAAY!!! Ava's fever FINALLY broke this morning after 2 1/2 days. She is in good spirits, eating and playing. I am so thankful!
--Nani

Lots of pics...Lots of exercise!

2009-02-07T22:31:00.000-08:00

Okay...I've been trying NOT to spend soooo much time on the computer at night, so I've still been taking lots of pics everyday, but not taking the time to EDIT them...which is my favorite part! I've also been spending LESS time editing them as well (for the most part). I seem to like the same few actions and have stopped trying the crazy new ones that take forever to run & the results aren't what I'm looking for.

Project 365 is keeping me busy...and I'm lovin' it! Here's my pic of the day for Tuesday, 2/03/09. One of 2 more quilted wallets sewed up. I LOVE this dragon pattern & you always have more fun sewing with fabrics you love. I'm planning on opening up an Etsy shop & selling these.

Boost, Sharpen, Boutwell Magic Glasses, Quick Edge Burn

Wednesday, Ava had her 18 month check up & started crying as soon as we got into the elevator to go up to the Dr.'s office! She was deemed very healthy but needs to be seen by a pediactric opthalmologist to check out a potential plugged tear duct. We'll find out more next month at her appointment.

Here she is, enjoying her reward for going to the Dr.'s office...despite crying for every single examination & measurement! Luckily, she didn't have to have any shots this time around!

(Binky in hand...baby bear tucked away)

After the Dr.'s office, I stopped by my parents house to pick up my stroller & we hung out for a while. It was a HOT, HOT day so my mom busted out the ice cream & turned on the sprinklers...a great way to cool down!

Ava was apprehensive at first - running next to the sprinklers, but not going in like big sister. I showed her how to play with the sprinkler & that's all it took to get her going! She LOVED how the water splashed all over herself when she put her hand on the sprinkler. It was a fun tactile experience for her! This shot was my P365 pic for the day...I love little hands!

Boost, Sharpen, Boutwell Magic Glasses, Quick Edge Burn + my own brush strokes

Kyra got to showcase her batting skills with Grammie. They played with the tennis ball & retractable sword...my girl is pretty good!

Thursday's events & pics...I hadn't had a haircut in so long that I couldn't remember! My auntie honey (yes, that's what we call her) was in town for her birthday so I was able to get a free haircut! Yaaaaay! I always feel guilty spending money on stuff like that!

Anyhow, I've been wanting to chop my hair & donate it to "Locks of Love," a non-profit organization who makes wigs for disadvantaged children. It must be a minimum of 8 inches, tip to tip. I had my mom take a picture of me before my haircut...

...and after!And here is my P365 shot of the day...my hair, before I mail it off.

For more information on how you can donate, please visit their website at: http://www.locksoflove.org/

Friday's stuff...
Kyra & Ava...they are definitely quite a pair! This is a pic of the two of them on the kitchen floor at snack time. Legs sprawled & a Costco container of animal crackers between them! They were very happy girls...and my P365 pic!

It rained again, so we were stuck inside & my softball game was once again postponed. I wanted to get some exercise in, so I tried my "H2O bottle deadlifts" on top of my step and it kicked my butt (more like my hammies)!
These are 5 gallon bottles and have these nifty handles...just PERFECT for picking up & carrying around! Farmer walks, squats, deadlifts...I could go on! (The mirror & step are from my friend's garage sale...I swapped her for my dog backpack. Woo-hoo!)

This past week I've ran 3 times for a total of 8 miles...not bad! It rained sooooo much today...then in the afternoon the sun peeked out & it was beautiful. I took the opportunity to pack up my Kyra girl & take her on a run with me. She was pretty high maintenance at first, but soon after was singing & enjoying all the sight & sounds of a fresh rainfall.

This is the riverbed that I cut through today. It is usually mostly empty, with just a small 10 ft. wide river going down. Not today! It was so full, I had to stop and take a bunch of pictures! I liked this one the best because of the contrast between the sky & clouds vs. the brown bridge, so it's my P365 pic for the day.

Mostly done in Picasa - bumped up the saturation, sharpened.

Then ran the Boost action from Pioneer Woman.

I have seen some homeless people taking shelter in the riverbed where there are run off drains. I can't even imagine how cold & miserable they must be when it rains. I spotted a blanket hung up and some clothes too. There was a roll of toilet paper left in the sun to dry. I am so thankful for every single thing I have. I appreciate the comforts that are usually taken for granted. It sucks to run out of TP!!

Catching Up...KEEPING Up & Running

2009-02-02T22:58:00.000-08:00

I'm playing catch up with my Project 365 pics...I didn't have much to choose from since I wasn't officially doing it yet, but managed to find a few that I liked so far.

This is New Year's Day, wearing my very first pair of size 2 jeans! They are from Express, who is so generous with their sizing, so it is more like a 4-6! =) That's okay, I was just thrilled to have to buy smaller jeans because my skinny jeans were falling off of me! I had been working really hard (running 3 miles at 6 AM before my girls woke up) to get back into my pre-pregnancy clothes so it was VERY satisfying for me.

I have gotten a LOT of satisfaction from sewing, so I was excited to take a picture of the new thread I got from Jo-Anns. I used the purple/pink one for the quilted wallet shown in the picture with it and I loved how it turned out.

One of my very favorite things to do is GO to the public library & GO CRAZY! I check out a million books at a time & do heavy skimming for the most part. I look for what interests me & soak up as much as I can, when I can. I love reading to my girls (Dr. Seuss is my favorite to read) and they LOVE being read to! Another thing about the library that I love is all the cheap books you can buy! I try to pick up something everytime I go. Today, I bought a little wooden bookshelf for $4! I was so excited!

So today's P365 pic is of Kyra at the library. She was excited to wear this flower clippy that I made. I love how big & bright it is! She is really soaking in Mrs. Campbell's story about Groundhog's Day...look at the focus on her face!

I had a personal victory today - running to & from the library with the double stroller! It is a tough workout...especially against the Santa Ana winds! It works out to be a 2 mile round trip, so I feel good about that. I DO miss running my 3 mile route and will have to work up to taking the girls with me on that one. Knowing that my girls are "watching" me run makes me push that much harder. They make me tougher & better.

Sunday Driver

2009-02-01T23:49:00.000-08:00

Today was fun - we took the bikes out for a spin & we ALL had fun! At one point, Arthur had both girls in front & I was on the back, holding on for dear life! I actually TRIED to get a picture but didn't even get a shot off...thought the better of it & bailed off before I smashed my head & camera!

Here is today's Project 365 picture. Ava was very pushy with daddy on this thing. Apparently, she was complaining every time Arthur tried to steer! You can see in this picture that her hands are FIRMLY gripping the handle bars! Way to go my baby!

Kyra was on her Hello Kitty tricycle most of the time, so when daddy let her take the reigns of this baby, she was all smiles!

This Dora ATV packs some power! It startled Kyra when she pushed on the pedal! You gotta love that expression!

After the kids went down for their nap, we had a little something sweet that my hubby whipped up...he's crafty like that!

Layered from bottom to top:

chocolate covered caramel
crunchy peanut butter
dipped in Heath toffee pieces

Man, I LOVE me some sweets!!! This is so yummy...I love anything with peanut butter & chocolate.

3 Days of Adventure

2009-01-31T22:51:00.000-08:00

Here are my Project 365 pictures for the past few days...enjoy!

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THURSDAY, 1/29/2009

This is not an easy time for most families out there. Financial pressures are at an all time high & every time I see the news, it's seemingly getting darker & bleaker by the minute.

I've had more down days lately than usual, so it was very theraputic to get some good shots of what is most important to me...my family. Here is a rare shot of Arthur...he's very camera shy. I love his interaction with the girls. They just love daddy!

********************************************************************
FRIDAY, 1/30/2009

This is Jordan - a potential future son-in-law! Actually he's my good friend's (Lisa) son. He came home with from today's big adventure at the park so Lisa could take care of some business.
He's always well behaved for me & plays well with my girls. They just adore him and so do I.

Here he is intensely focused on Perle beads & putting them on the pegboard. My kids LOVE doing this & it keeps their hands busy.
Anyhow, I loved getting up close & seeing those lashes in all their glory. He is very photogenic & I never have a problem getting a good shot of him. =)

Thanks Jordan!

Sepia & adjusted highlights & shadows in Picasa, Quick Edge Burn in PS...I'm addicted to this action!!!

********************************************************************
SATURDAY, 1/31/2009

Today we ventured with my parents to my cousins birthday/graduation party in West Covina. He double majored in international business & marketing! Way to go Leighton!
It was a beautiful day & my girls were gazing at the pool & listening to it summon them. I captured this shot of my Kyra girl & she's awfully cute when she's happy! =)

Sewing Stuff: I'm continuing to do something everyday. Today I shortened the straps on the dresses they wore to the party (Kyra's pictured above...and Ava's is the same in green). I also completed the quilted top pieces to both wallets...did some quick chain stitching the other morning. It's time I picked up my Hawaiian quilt again...keep stitching away! I'm 3/4 done with the section I'm working on and then it's time to move to the BIG outside piece...yeah!

Exercise Stuff: I went for a great 2 mile walk at Central Park in Huntington Beach on Friday. That park ROCKS!!! It is dog & stroller friendly, great scenic route & challenging hills too! There is a playground & fitness gurus go there to teach classes! Anyhow, that was fun...we stopped along the way and did some of the trail exercises with the kids...AWESOME! I even did a bit of a pull-up...which is good for chicks! Later that night, I played softball & hit the ball well so that made me happy. It was a good time with my family there. Sorry Chris - we just gotta get on the SAME team already!! =)

Homecoming & Swing With Me

2009-01-28T22:45:00.000-08:00

I'm making it quick tonight...gotta get some sleep!!! Catching up with my P365 pics...here are yesterday & today's.

This is my neighbor Cat & her daughter Emy. I caught this picture from across the street. Cat came home late from a meeting at work (she's a teacher) and was greeted curbside by her little girl. It was a precious moment & I actually saw them both light up before my eyes!

VintageQuick Edge Burn+ some of my own paintbrush work

I met up with my long time girlfriend and her son at the park today for some fun. She is such an incredible friend, I can't begin to tell you. When I leave her, I feel uplifted & stronger than before. She empowers me & brings me back to earth. With all the craziness going on in America, it is easy to feel like things are spiraling out of control. She keeps me grounded!

I love you Lisa (and you too Jordan)!

Always a fun time playing with Jordan...

The girls were giving each other butterfly kisses tonight...it was so sweet to watch them be lovey dovey with each other!

They sat & read books together & even did their "booty-to-booty-yoga!" It was hilarious!

(darn shadow...oh-well, still a cool pic!)

Can't Label Me

2009-01-27T01:01:00.000-08:00

Today started off with a short nature walk with the girls to once again try my hand at some macro shots. Here are a couple I took:

I call this one, "Leaf Me Alone!" Cheesy, I know!

I am really trying to set up my shots with better composition & trying new/interesting angles. I thought these flowers were delicate & beautiful.

Then we were off to the library for Storytime with Mrs. Campbell. Today's theme was dragons in honor of Chinese New Year (despite it being the year of the Ox) and there was a good turnout, which always makes for more friends & more fun!

Mrs. Campbell always does finger play, songs and other activities that require participation, in addtion to reading aloud. Today, Kyra made her way to the front row & made sure to join in on the fun! Ava is all the way in the back...it's easier to sneak away, don't 'cha know?!

...and she snuck off alright! I liked the angle of this one (SOOC)

Finally, here's my P365 shot of the day, "Can't Label Me." She parked at the table with the name tags & made her mark! I love the focus in her face!

I also wanted to get some fun tub time pics of the girls. I bumped the shutter speed way up & got some cool water action shots! Yet, another picture of Ava!

I'm still sewing & I try to do something everyday...keep building the skills! I finished the top pieces for the 2 wallets I'm making & am working on making a few adjustments this time around. I thought a wrist strap would be nice (since I always seem to have my hands full), move the top pocket down a smidge & use a heavier interfacing to give it more structure.

Quite A Lady!

2009-01-26T01:00:00.000-08:00

Another beautiful day...another nature walk and this time I recruited the neighborhood kids to help me find something to photograph. I wanted to practice using my macro lens, so flowers & bugs were my test subjects!

The first bug was stepped on...so off we went to find something else! My Kyra girl spotted this ladybug just chillin' on her little leaf. I was so excited I jumped into the bushes (the kids were just looking at me like a crazy lady) and snapped away. It is NOT EASY to get a clear shot! I took many, pics & was thrilled to get some good ones.

Here's today's P365 shot of the day, "Quite A Lady."

PW - boost, quick edge burnTRA - Boutwell Magic Glasses

***********************************************************************************

Here are my runner-ups that didn't make the cut...but I had to post!

My Ava girl! She loves these beads...and it keeps her little hands busy!

I really liked the composition of this picture, but the BUG came out blurry...

And this was inspired by some of the pics posted in my Project 365 flickr group...

The Spradley kids set up the trampoline in front of their basketball hoop so they could dunk. These pics were so FUN! Here's my favorite of the bunch...

On the sewing front, I finished up the last 2 pot holders, started 2 more quilted wallets & fixed 2 shirts that needed repair. I love the practical side of sewing. It's so handy! My goal is to make 10 wallets to list on ETSY, as well as some other things.

Since I've been a stay-at-home-mama & out of the workforce for over 3 years now, I'm definetly feeling pretty helpless with the finances. I am throwing around a bunch of ideas, from opening my ETSY store to teaching kickboxing again. This down economy has hit us really hard and I am more grateful for the simple neccesities than ever.

Bundle of Fun!

2009-01-25T00:18:00.000-08:00

This is Ava. She is my 17 month-old bundle of fun. I've noticed that I usually take more pics of my 3 year-old (she's a camera hog & being a little cutie doesn't hurt either) so I wanted to capture my little "Booga-Booga" in action. Here's my Project 365 pic for today:

I did a lot of playing around to try to salvage this shot--it is rather blurry.
PW: Quick Edge Burn
TRA2: Slice Like A Ninja (Sharpen)

I've been feeling pretty good physically and have been getting back to running. I started the day off with a little yoga to get the blood flowing & stretch out my sore muscles. We were expecting some possible rain today, so I wanted to go for a run before it started. I bundled up the girls, loaded up the double stroller & ran to the park. We had the whole playground to ourselves! Before long, Ava wandered to a nearby patch of flowers so I snapped a few shots, trying to get a good pic...this wasn't as clear as I'd hoped for, but what can you expect with her moving all over the place! =)

SOOC - this pic isn't edited...yet...but still wanted to share it with you!

On the way home, we stopped at 7-11 for a little treat. Kyra picked gummy bears & I picked Fritos (hey, I work out to pork out)! It started to drizzle while we were inside so I ran, ran, ran home quick!

Rain, Rain, Go Away!

2009-01-24T00:18:00.000-08:00

This is how I started my day...

and it's SOOC (straight out of camera) - I loved how this turned out!

It finally rained today, marking the end of our summer-in-the-winter weather & plans to go outside for a nature walk. Instead, I busted out the "make-your-own sock puppets" kit from the pile of recent Christmas gifts & we got crafty!

At one point, Ava stood up...then Kyra & they both stared at the rain outside. I am trying new things & I got so many good shots today that I had a hard time choosing, but this captured the DAY the best. Plus my girls are in it!!! =) Here's my "Project 365" picture of the day.

Ava is laughing on demand now, so I used this opportunity to get some happy pics & sneak a peek at her new teeth...hehehe! She was very cooperative & here's what I captured...but haven't done much editing to...yet! I just love her little face here!

This is SOOC (straight out of camera) -

I tried to get some pics of the rain while cracking open the back door...but this was the best I could do with Ava doing her best to push her way out past me & outside!

I couldn't resist jumping outside with an umbrella to try shooting the raindrops...
(SOOC)

My camera batteries died & I had to use my CELL PHONE to grab this shot:

(SOOC)

I knew I was losing light fast & the sun was on it's way down...I rushed to get my partially charged rechargeable batteries & shoved them in my camera. Here's what I managed to get:
(SOOC)

I worked on my remaining 2 pot holders and will probably finish them tomorrow...almost done. I've got my new fabric in the dryer, so I'll be ready for something new...what next?!

One of my goals is to get an Etsy shop going & sell some goodies. I need a good name & logo...something that would look good on a label! Contemporary yet edgy...modern and vintage feel...any ideas???

Bound & Tied

2009-01-22T21:39:00.000-08:00

Here is today's Project 365 picture. I am really enjoying this challenge and posting to my flickr group. I am truly inspired by the members...so talented!

I came upon this on our nature walk today. I was so excited when I saw it because I was armed with my camera, ready to shoot!I didn't do too much to this photo...I think the texture really captured me. I wanted to create some interest so I darkened the shadows & bumped up the highlights a touch (all in Picasa...so easy!).

Anyone else up for the 365 challenge???!!!

Little Americans & Finished Pot Holder too!

2009-01-20T21:47:00.000-08:00

Today was an amazing historical day! I was really excited to watch Barack Obama's inauguration & tuned in at 6 AM! Not by choice...my little Ava girl decided to wake up & wasn't persuaded to go back to sleep.

Anyhow, I was very moved & a bit emotional watching history unfold before my eyes. My girls were running around the house for the most part (they must've known I was preoccupied) and occasionally stopped to see what mommy what hoot'n & holler'n about. I swear, I felt pumped up, like when I'm watching a live football game or something! Woo-hoo! I snapped this pic before they continued romping about. This is my Project 365 pic for today...I wanted it to be Obama related!

In all my excitement, I managed to finish my pot holder. The binding was tricky & I had to rip it out on my first try. I don't know if I did it right, but I like how it turned out. After ripping out the stitches, I decided to play it safe & baste it before sewing on the machine. I have concluded that it is worth the extra time & effort to hand baste!

Yaaay - all finished!

Now to make the other 2 that are already cut & ready to be sewn. I wanted to make one first, before jumping into the other 2 in case I messed it up.

Finally, I took the girls for a walk with the limo (that's what I call my double stroller...it's so loooong) around 4:30ish & I just loved the way the clouds looked. I even managed to catch a decent pic of some birds in flight. They were really far away, so I'm glad the pic actually turned out.

New Project - Pot Holders

2009-01-18T22:19:00.001-08:00

Since I finished my wallet, it was time to start a new project. Hubby suggested pot holders since he's the master chef around here & is always using dish towels. I got this cool canvas fabric at Wal-Mart for only $3/yard! I see a big tote bag or something of the sort in the near future...

--Nani

Bedtime Stories

2009-01-17T19:50:00.001-08:00

We love Dr. Seuss! I have a couple bookworms at home who devour his books. I really enjoy reading to the girls & started 'Alice In Wonderland' 2 days ago for Kyra. She has seen the movie a lot so I think that helps her follow the story. It's a fun, yet challenging read-aloud since Alice is quite fragmented!
--Nani

Almost Done

2009-01-17T00:19:00.000-08:00

Here's the progress on the quilted wallet I've been working on. It's almost done! I still need to close it up with a slipstitch & finish it off with a topstitch.
--Nani

New Stuff

2009-01-15T20:59:00.000-08:00

Man oh man...I just LOVE going shopping at Jo-Ann's (or any crafty store). I went to pick up the fusible interfacing & a cool tool to add snaps for my quilted wallet. Picked those puppies up & headed for more thread (can never have enough) and browse the fabric isles.

I found these 3 and am brainstorming on what to DO with them now...creativity is brewing!
I was looking for something to catch my eye & really wanted something Asian inspired.

I am trying to take a picture everyday for the whole year...aka "Project 365." So far, so good but I haven't actually DONE anything with them. Here is today's picture with some Picasa & Photoshop love added! I could tweak out on this for hours & hours...
My nieces Chase & Cali, my daughters Kyra & Ava! I thought of monkeys at the zoo when I had them behind the bars!

2009-01-14T11:03:00.000-08:00

Sidewalk paint...fun, fun, fun!
--Nani

2009-01-14T08:54:00.001-08:00

Oh man-these are just a few pics I found so far. Luckily, they survived the fire in my dorm my freshman year of college. Can you spot the pic of Ray & Chris holding the moose fur?! Good times!
--Nani

Sunshiny Day & Hawaiian Quilt

2009-01-14T00:02:00.000-08:00

They tell me it's winter...but with the beautiful sunshiny day we had today, I'm not so sure! We got out of the house for a bit today to go for a walk in my neighborhood. I call them nature walks. We go out & explore what the day has for us.

One of our neighbor's had the sprinklers on & I told Kyra to cool off & run through them...Ava soon followed suit. They had such a great time, running back & forth, jumping & splashing. It was great to see them so happy. It felt great to get in the sun, feel the (relatively) fresh air & be with my girls. Ava isn't a baby anymore...she's a toddler & growing so fast. Kyra is independent & strong-willed. Never a dull moment in my household!

I worked on my Hawaiian quilt again today & have really enjoyed it. I know there is so much work yet to be done, but it is very satisfying to see the progress I'm making. This will be something that I will pass on to my girls and hopefully they will pass it down to their kids. I suppose I will have to make at least 2! Here are the most recent pics of my quilt, taken last week.

This picture has the kiddos so you can get some perspective on just how HUGE this sucker is!

All the stitches are by hand. This is my first quilt...first applique...yes, I know I'm crazy but I really think I can do it!

The applique is turned under and stitched...old skool baby!

This is truly a labor of love. If I wanted to be buried when I die (which I don't) I would have them wrap me up in this!!! (j/k)
I hope to carry on this treasured tradition to my girls & make quilts with them...that would be cool!

Darning Foot

2009-01-10T21:28:00.000-08:00

I am so excited...today I got my long awaited darning foot & walking foot. I need these in order to quilt & do freehand quilting.

I practiced some doodling to get the hang of it. I need to make a real practice sandwich quilt...this is just some scrap fabric folded over, no batting. FUN, FUN!!!

I also worked on my quilted wallet...I picked a different fabric for the lower pockets...I like the hot pink! I just am not sure if I folded it right & need to figure this one out. I have to pick up some interfacing as well.

Bookworm

2009-01-07T21:39:00.000-08:00

This is what I found in Kyra's bed today during naptime! She's a total bookworm & likes to snuggle with them!
--Nani

Splashing

2009-01-07T21:33:00.000-08:00

Ava testing the waters. She mastered crossing the bridge in no time!
--Nani

Climbing

2009-01-07T21:15:00.001-08:00

Kid, you'll move mountains! Kyra likes to climb the rock waterfall in the backyard. Me too!
--Nani

Rainer Gala Apple

2009-01-06T10:36:00.000-08:00

We're lovin these Rainer Gala apples from Costco. Sweet, juicy & crisp...served cold!
--Nani

Library Fun

2009-01-05T20:51:00.000-08:00

We had fun at the library today. First storytime with Mrs. Campbell, then a craft. Here are some goodies I picked up. Some I bought, some I borrowed. I spent $5.50 for all this goodness! Woo-hooo!

Quilted Wallet

2009-01-04T23:23:00.000-08:00

Here's my latest project - just started tonight & I'm already done with the outside piece! These are 2 inch strips, backed with fusible flece & topstitched with verigated thread. It is a fancy way of saying the thread is multicolored. I picket it up @ Jo-Anns today, along with the flower (1st in pic) & green skull (last in pic) fabric.

Here is a close up on the thread...I used the purple one.

And the topstitching...using the thread! I had white in the bobbin & it is peeking through so next time I won't be so lazy & match it up!

Finally, here's an updated picture from my real camera (not my cell)!

My Little Helpers!

2009-01-02T18:02:00.000-08:00

I am looking forward to more help!
--Nani

Little Rocker!

2008-12-30T07:53:00.001-08:00

Ava was rockin' out with the new Barbie guitar. She was smiling & jumping - too cute!
--Nani

Santa Picture

2008-12-22T14:15:00.000-08:00

Here is this year's Santa picture! Hilarious!

1st Round

2008-12-21T15:37:00.000-08:00

Here's the picture from my cell phone (I post most things from my cell so forgive the poor quality). I attempted to chalk the blue mounting paper using Kyra's birthday chalk from IKEA! I have no idea what I'm doing, but I like the effect. I wanted the paper to stand out a little more behind the Heather Bailey paper. I just LOVE her stuff! I also tried a little stamping with my new purchases from Tall Mouse & Strictly Scrapbooking in Cerritos.

Here's the card in my completed goodie bin! I finished 2 headbands using some extra Hello Kitty fabric, this time using fusible fleece to add thickness & structure to it. My favorite part is the topstiching. I think it added a quality finish to the headband. I can't wait to see it on!

I had fun making this card...I can't wait to start the next!
--Nani

More Ideas Brewing

2008-12-19T15:43:00.001-08:00

So fun!
--Nani

Work In Progress

2008-12-19T15:00:00.000-08:00

Since money is tight, I'm going the homemade heartfelt route. These are made with lots of love!
--Nani

Christmas Time...

2008-12-13T19:13:00.001-08:00

We got the tree decorated! Yaaay!
--Nani

Announcement...Teeth...Run...Firetruck...

2008-12-04T22:34:00.001-08:00

It is my pleasure to introduce to you my youngest & newest niece, Cruz Hokula'ela'eikealalani Koepke! My sister asked me to do the birth announcements again (this is her 4th and final addition) and I convinced her to splerge on the Complete BE Collection by Sweet Genevivie's Designs. I knew that with 4 kids, she'll need some variety for coming year! I had another version (or 2 or 3...) using a dark brown background to add more "drama" and take away from the busy-ness of the background. Maybe I'll post it up later. For now, the final print...to come via UPS Ground anydayyyyy noooooow.

Here's the back...and my favorite picture. She just looks so comfy & she just wanted to be held by her mama. I took the pics so the pressure was on to get some good shots! Babies just do what they want & are not so reliable to be happy when you remove them from their very warm & snuggly spot! Luckily, my sis was able to nurse her between position changes & setting up pillows. That kept the little chunkers happy so we could keep going. There were a lot of cute pictures and never enough room on the postcard for all of them!

Ava's new teeth are almost cutting through...I can see them coming & taking shape in her gums...ready to pop open! She's been extra fussy and needing lots of extra love & attention (it runs in the family)! I took her out in the backyard today & it calmed her down. She especially likes to hear the birds flying by & makes a point to talk to me about it. She is signing more and more words all the time. It's amazing how quickly kids absorb information.

Thankfully, Kyra has been well doing much better when we (especially me) are more patient with her & take time to really listen to her. She wants to be heard! Makes me think of Dr. Seuss's, Horton Hears a Who - "a person's a person no matter how small!"

I found some great stress relief today by just packing up the girls in the double stroller & going for a jog in my neighborhood. I didn't go for a 3 mile run or anything crazy...just a jog on my normal walk-around- the-neighborhood route. Kyra was on edge before we left, so I didn't want to walk...just RUN! She started seeing some Christmas decorations & got excited. Yaaaay! Ava was enjoying the fresh air, Kyra was happy & I felt good too. I felt so good that I ran to a nearby preschool that I want to enroll her in.

We zipped over to the school & Kyra was so interested in the kids & especially the playground. She made a point to tell me about the slide she saw. Then, as we were talking in front of the school, a firetruck pulls up & stops in front of us! Kyra had her mouth open & didn't know what to say. My little chatterbox couldn't get ONE word out of her mouth...or ONE sign either! It was pretty cool (and overwhelming too). It was big and loud and a bunch of firemen jumped off when it stopped. I can't exactly blame her. All that was great, but maaaaan that double stroller is heavy and sooooo hard to manuver! I think I get the best workout when I'm running with them. I use my core muscles like never before!

Lastly...

I got this great quote in my email today. Surrender means the decision to stop fighting the world, and to start loving it instead. It is a gentle liberation from pain.
—Excerpted from A Return to Love: Reflections on the Principles of A Course in Miracles

Nice! See the good...be the change you want in the world...breathe...be.

--Nani

Ric Rac Bulletin Board

2008-12-03T00:04:00.001-08:00

Another crafty project done! This is the new flannel I got on Black Friday.
--Nani

Progress Picture

2008-11-28T23:38:00.000-08:00

Friends & family have been commenting on my recent weight loss. I tell them that it didn't happen on accident! After having 2 kids, I dreamt about fitting into my pre-pregnancy clothes again. I had been wearing my maternity clothes for months after Ava was born talk about depressing! I refused to buy any new clothes at that weight. I got bags of hand-me-downs from my mom. That's when I got MAD! I cut back on the portions & junk food to start but the real change came with sweat. I bought my neighbors inline skates for 5 bucks at a garage sale and started 'strollerblading' with my girls. Then I started getting up at 6 am to get my exercise.
--Nani

Progress & Reward

2008-11-21T17:25:00.000-08:00

Kyra & Ava went to my in-laws today. We had a rocky morning with 1 minor meltdown that was quickly extinguished thanks to our tag team parenting tactics. When I run into a wall with Kyra, I call on Arthur to intercede. It's not ideal, but it has helped. We had a huge success with the bath & pj routine, hence the shameless sweet reward- a chocolate cupcake with a Hello Kitty ring on top.
--Nani

A Tough Day...

2008-11-20T21:06:00.010-08:00

My biggest challenge is my 3 year-old daughter Kyra. She has been the toughest little girl to deal with as of late. From whining to kicking & screaming, this girl is testing my every bit of patience. After a meltdown, I am emotionally & physically drained. My 15-month-old, Ava, is usually crying by now as well & my husband is ready to jump out the window of our 2nd-story house. YIKES!!!

I seriously don't know what to do. I have tried all sorts of methods & end up feeling defeated, not to mention the guilt of having a household that is in turmoil. I'm not talking about a couple of fits or a few power struggles. I'm talking about waking up upset & going to bed upset & being upset for the majority of the time in between. I dropped her off to my mother-in-law's house for some relief today, but as soon as I picked her up, the tantrums resumed.

On a positive note, I made it out for my morning jog. I made it all the way (a little more than 3 miles) without stopping! I sprinted at the end for a strong finish. It's been so cold in the mornings that my hands are freezing! My eyes tear up endlessly and am constantly wiping them. I usually start with my jacket on & end up tying it around my waist when I get too hot to wear it anymore. Today I left it on the entire time!

On a crafty note, I finished up the burp cloths for my friend Amy last night. They turned out pretty cute...white flannel trimmed with Heather Bailey Pop Garden brown Sway fabric & pink ric rac. I was going to quilt them but decided not to after all. I also started Heather Bailey's Hooray For Headbands using the same fabric...I'll finish up after posting as crafting is the other stress relief outlet I have (exercising is the first)! Pics to follow soon....hopefully!

Happy Birthday Penny

2008-11-20T00:32:00.000-08:00

Before I head off to bed, I want to wish Penny a happy birthday. You're someone I'll never meet, yet still I know you. You've given me strength (a.k.a. "Penny Power) on many occasions. When I think about how tough & crazy things are in my life, I think about your struggles & the determination you embodied in your actions. Happy birthday Penny.

Post 6 AM Run!

2008-11-14T10:49:00.000-08:00

I did it...I woke up early & made it out for my run yesterday. I have been so out of my routine of getting up at 6:00 AM and exercising. I was a reluctant early bird but what matters is that I got up & out of bed! I claim that as a victory for me. Kyra was awake when I got home after my run. She was so enthusiastic and encouraging about my run. Did you have a good run mommy? Great job mommy! That was much needed fuel for my tank. She has been extra challenging the past couple weeks. Sometimes I feel completely out of control but when she says stuff like that it just makes me beam.
--Nani

Taco Sauce

2008-11-13T00:11:00.001-08:00

Holy taco sauce batman! We counted 80 packets from Taco Bell tonight! My hubby DID say a lot of sauce!
--Nani

Quilted Burpcloth

2008-11-12T00:50:00.000-08:00

Arthur suggested that I make my own burpcloths instead of buying them. The lady at Jo-Ann Fabrir store suggested the flannel. I doubled up the fabric, sewed, pressed & turned it out. Then I had the fancy idea to quilt the burpcloth before adding the fabric strip(s). I did okay for my first time but I have so much to learn.
--Nani

Cool Rose

2008-11-11T21:30:00.000-08:00

I like to stop & smell the roses when I'm out & about. Here is my pick for the best rose in the neighborhood! It has a strong sweet fragrance & unique coloring. Anyone know what kind of rose this is? I just might have to knock on their door & ask them the next time I go for a walk in the neighborhood.
--Nani

Elephant is DONE...

2008-11-08T23:25:00.000-08:00

...but I plan on embellishing it! The ears took me a while to attach...I didn't know how to whipstitch & had to look it up in my library book. I picked up 3 more books today...2 on fabric flowers & 1 on making dolls. I love to create!
--Nani

2008-11-08T20:02:00.000-08:00

My mother-in-law got this magazine for me. I wanted to get a newspaper but we didn't go to buy one until after 4 PM. The guy at 7-eleven told Arthur they sold out in the first 30 minutes! I wanted to have a piece of history. I was so moved by the intense sense of hope, unity, healing & restoration of this desperate nation.
--Nani

Disneyland Fun!

2008-11-08T09:28:00.000-08:00

Last night I went to Disneyland for free with some moms from my meetus group. We had a blast! Here I am in the back row with my arms up...feeling quite exhilerated. We left our kids at home so we could concentrate on having as much fun as possible with no worries! Yaaaay!
--Nani

Kitty & Sneak Peek

2008-11-06T13:52:00.000-08:00

Kyra was so excited to try out her new sewing kit from auntie Chandra. Here is the cute kitty she sewed, stuffed & embellished all by herself! I'm so proud of you my girl! ...behind the kitty is my almost finished mommy elephant! Coming soon... --Nani

Work In Progress

2008-11-06T00:19:00.001-08:00

Here is my Mommy Elephant so far. I started the actual sewing tonight. Up to this point I had only cut out the pattern & done some pinning. I attached the minkee underbelly & head insert as well as sewed the trunk. She is taking shape quite nicely! The minkee fabric was pretty slippery so I opted to baste the pieces after pinning for extra stability. It turned out to be a little extra work but well worth the effort...the seams look nice & clean!
--Nani

Trick?

2008-11-04T19:02:00.000-08:00

Who said Halloween was over?!
--Nani

Making History!

2008-11-04T16:31:00.001-08:00

Kyra did the honors of putting my absentee ballott in the box this morning. She was so excited about voting & kept asking me if she could vote!
--Nani

Election Day!

2008-11-04T09:30:00.000-08:00

This morning started off with a walk to 7-Eleven for a cup of joe. I've been undecided about who I will vote for until this morning. I am really hoping for a big change in our country and I think Obama is the man that can do it! I feel so blessed to be a part of this amazing historical election. Vote, vote, vote people...Just Do It!
--Nani

Happy Birthday to me!

2008-11-02T12:54:00.000-08:00

Slept in till 9, breakfast in bed, kids at my in-laws all day, iced coffee, trip to Tall Mouse & 5 yards of kick ass fabric... PRICELESS!

I am 32 years-old today and so grateful for all the blessings in my life.

--Nani

Unforgettable Elephant (Mommy)

2008-11-01T08:35:00.000-07:00

I got this adorable Elephant doll pattern from Leslie on Thursday night & I couldn't wait to start. I pinned & cut out the pattern yesterday. I love this green & blue paisley fabric and Leslie thought to add red to it. I see some red ric rac in my elephants future! The inside of her ears and her underbelly will be super soft minkee fabric. That was my cool idea! I already want to make more!
--Nani

Minnie Me!

2008-10-31T20:07:00.000-07:00

Kyra is all dressed up as Minnie Mouse. She's enjoying the spoils of her efforts...trick-or-treating isn't as easy or as fun as it used to be. Only 2 neighbors actually answered the door to pass out candy!
--Nani

Silly Socks!

2008-10-31T11:48:00.001-07:00

Today is Halloween & Kyra dressed herself today! She is so independent and quite sassy...go figure! Ava is offically climbing on all the furniture. She likes to stand on the coffee table!
--Nani

Midnight Sweet Tooth

2008-10-30T23:55:00.000-07:00

Look what my hubby made from scratch! Yummm!
--Nani

Finished Project!

2008-10-28T08:45:00.001-07:00

Here is a nursing cover I made for my friend Amy. It is Heather Bailey's ''Sway'' fabric from the ''Pop Garden'' line with jumbo pink ric rac (thanks Leslie...great idea girl). I was inspired to try out the HB fabric & loved every minute of sewing with it. What's next?!
--Nani

My Fortune Cookie Says...

2008-10-27T14:32:00.001-07:00

Prepare yourself for a change of events in your personal life
--Nani

Spoil Me!

2008-10-27T01:08:00.000-07:00

Rose petals & candles leading upstairs to this hot bath & chilled champagne!
--Nani

Beach Fun

2008-10-27T01:06:00.001-07:00

Today was a great day with my hubby...NO KIDS! We stopped by Seal Beach & took a nice walk & played around.
--Nani

Yoga Girls!

2008-10-25T13:43:00.001-07:00

Booty to booty!
--Nani

Tanaka Farm Pumpkin Patch Irvine

2008-10-24T19:22:00.000-07:00

Here is the spread from our adventure today. We picked carrots, green beans, radishes, onions & one Kyra-sized pumpkin she selected from the field. It was hot & challenging but a lot of fun too!
--Nani

New Acquisitions!

2008-10-20T17:45:00.000-07:00

Michael Miller & Heather Bailey fabric. I went back to Tall Mouse, despite my girls both having meltdowns. What I do for cool fabric!
--Nani

I'm so grateful for...

2008-10-15T14:19:00.000-07:00

Kind act from a stranger of sorts.
--Nani

What to Wear

2008-10-14T19:56:00.001-07:00

Kyra likes to pick out her own outfits. Check out the socks too! Funny stuff!
--Nani

Just the Essentials

2008-10-07T06:48:00.000-07:00

Running shoes, iPod & pocket knife! All done with my 6 AM-3 mile run!
--Nani

My Crafty Girl

2008-10-06T12:21:00.000-07:00

Kyra just loves Storytime crafts!
--Nani

Grateful

2008-10-04T08:32:00.000-07:00

I pray not for easier challenges, but for greater strength & clearer vision.
--Nani

BIG Ball!

2008-10-01T19:39:00.000-07:00

Kyra got this huge ball from her Auntie Adriana last night. She threw it at Ava, who squealed with joy and promptly kicked it back to her big sister. They are laughing so hard!
--Nani

Small blessings again

2008-09-30T15:50:00.000-07:00

3 pairs of shoes for Kyra! Thank you so much!
--Nani

Today's 1st Blessing

2008-09-30T13:08:00.000-07:00

This morning we walked & got to watch the sunrise. It was amazing & inspiring. This is Margaret holding up her hands victoriously!
--Nani

My Sweetie

2008-09-27T13:16:00.000-07:00

Ava just loves her baby bear. Almost time to mo-moi.

Late Night Antics

2008-09-27T13:11:00.000-07:00

Margaret was helping me make more "Sassy and Sweet" clippies last night so I could sell them at the Holiday Bazzar today @ 4 PM. She is wicked with the glue gun...check out the cute clippie she was inspired to make!

Fun With Photoshop!

2008-08-08T00:25:00.000-07:00

I found this cool book at the library last Monday called, "Alternative Digital Photography," by John G. Blair. Here is one of the things I learned to do, Hand-Colored Black and White. Very quick and easy to do...I LOVE the dramatic effect it has on this simple photo....yaaaay!

I can't wait to learn more fun things with Photoshop!

Tough Day

2008-04-21T00:30:00.000-07:00

I visited a friend in the ICU today. It had been years since we last talked.

I Voted!

2008-02-05T23:45:00.000-08:00

As I walked up to the polling place, I couldn't help but feel an overwhelming surge of patriotism. I have been registered to vote since I was of age, but have only been to the polls once before.

Dylan's 1st Birthday Party

2008-01-27T01:19:00.000-08:00

Today we went to Dylan's 1st birthday party. Kyra had so much fun running around and playing with the kids. It was nice to see everyone & spend time with family.

Digital Scrapbooking

2007-12-30T23:57:00.000-08:00

I've been putting off making any scrapbooks for a number of reasons...namely because I spend most of my time looking after my two girls, Kyra (2) and Ava (4 1/2 months). I recently discovered that Costco now prints 12 x 12 photos geared for the new digital scrapbooking craze...I got really excited & started playing around with my Photoshop. Here is what my very first page looks like so far:

This is going to be a lot of fun & there is no mess to clean up afterwards! Apparently there are digital scrapbooking kits that you can buy (around $10 for a kit) and that looks like even MORE fun! A great webpage I found is www.pclayers.com. They have some really nice artwork.

Testing...One, Two, Three

2007-10-30T23:24:00.000-07:00

Just testing this thing out!