More Journals

The kids were really excited about my foot book journal when it arrived. Both of the older kids asked me to make them a new journal also.

Later that day, I noticed a LARGE amount of cereal being consumed by the kids. I mean A LOT. I finally told the kids to stop and eat some real food. Their response made me smile so big! They were eating up all the cereal, so they could use the boxes to make new journal covers.
{D} & {M} are really into recycling and repurposing items. I was a proud mama when I realized their intent. So, I let them finish up their cereal feast and we got to work.

They are super simple to make, but great fun. We cute out rectangles from the front and back of the box about a 1/2 inch larger than a sheet of paper [folded in half, but you could do a full sheet also]. Each book had 20 pages. We simply stapled the books along the spine, but they could be hole punched and ribbon tied, or sewn just as easily.

{D} had the amazon Lemur and drew pictures of The cat in the Hat and lots of Dr. Seuss references. It was a nice break from bloody vampires [haha]. {M} drew an entire book about a farmer Bill and the animals he cared for.

It was a fun way to pass a rainy afternoon. I love having such creative kids and being able to share their interests with them! Their talents grow each day, and I am amazed at the people they are becoming!

I WON!

I'm the kind of person who never wins...anything. As a child, I entered contests, already planning what I'm going to do with my prize, as I wrote my name. Each time I was SURE this would be the time. This time, I would finally win...

After 28 years of not winning, I've just gotten used to it. It doesn't really bother me anymore, I still enter contest and blog giveaways, but I think less and less about the chance of actually winning over the years. I let the dreams of grandeur lie with my husband, who still thinks we are going to hit the lottery-every week.

Well, I am HAPPY to say, my losing streak is over. HAHA-Hurray! I won this super cool journal over on Cathe Holden's blog, Just Something I Made. It's a super cool journal and a great blog for anyone creative or crafty! The journals are made with repurposed book covers and pages. Check out some other cool books at the Ex Libris Anonymous site.

Check it out! Meanwhile I will be writing in my new book. Thanks to Cathe & Ex Libris Anonymous-you guys rock! :D

Sweater Ball

I've been working on the Fall/Winter line the past few weeks. The Sweater Ball will be included, made from repurposed, felted wool sweaters. They are both eco-friendly and fun! They come in an assortment of colors and some have great embroidered details.

They are great for children in a wide range of ages, although I recommend them for kids who no longer chew all their toys. What other toy can entertain a 1 year old and 6 year old at the same time?


I'm working on a batch to take to Craftin Outlaws [hopefully I am excepted again this year!]. It's one of my favorite shows of the year and I can't wait. The location has moved to the Lodge Bar this year and it's scheduled for October 17th, so mark your calendars!

Happy Friday!

After a L-O-N-G week, I was struck this afternoon with the need to create something for me. I've been putting off so many projects that I want, and started feeling uninspired to do the others. I've had plans to make a few new throw pillows for awhile. The pillows our couch came with were SO hideous! They have been stored in the attic for 2 years now. I started thinking that they would make a perfect pillow form, for some washable, removable covers.

The last time I made pillows, I cut, sewed, stuffed and sealed them....cut to a week later and the kids had food, marker and god only knows all over them. I decided then, it was the last time I make pillows that cannot be washed-for a house with 3 kids under 5!!

These are paired with upcycled sheets for backing, making the total cost only a few dollars for each!!! They only take about 15 minutes to make also [a good thing because that's about the only time I can find lately]. Below is the back of the larger pillow. When I get a chance, I'll add a few button closures.

Here is one of my brooch's shown by the new pillow and my purse.