Perfect for all those sailing adventures your little boy has. There are more pictures available on my webiste. http://www.pinaforesandknickerbockers.com
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Thanksgiving Dress
This dress is so fun with the cute little turkeys. You can view more pictures on my website
http://www.pinaforesandknickerbockers.com
Cute Fall outfit for the boys
School starts next week and this summer has been a busy one so I haven't had much time to get new outfit made but I did manage to make 3 and I'm adding them here. This one is for your cute little boys.http://www.pinaforesandknickerbockers.com/
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Emma's Birthday Dress
You can tell she loves to have her picture taken at least most of the time. It helps having a Auntie Tara that Emma really loves. Tara is the one who took these photos for me.Saturday, June 6, 2009
The last two new items
Just for fun I thought I would make my grandaughter a custom made birthday party hat to match one of her birthday dresses. The sky is the limit with this since it can be made from any fabric and can also be personalized with child's name and age.
I get alot of requests for boy outfits so I'm slowly starting to add these appliqued rompers to my collection. The applique didn't photograph as well as I had hoped so it looks much cuter in person. The romper is lined and can be worn with the cuffs rolled up or left down. I do have a matching button down shirt made from the sailboat fabric and is available seperately.
Ruffled pillowcase top
This is another ruffled pillowcase top but this time I made it shorter so it can be worn as a top with pants.
New Designs
I've been working hard to get some new items up on my website and today I finally finished. I will be putting them up on my website this week but wanted to share them with you on my blog. Hope you like them.
I just love these diaper covers with the ruffles on the bottom.
I just love this outfit especially the pants. I'm beginning to do more applique and I just love how they make an outfit so much more cuter. I also love the peasant tops. These are just perfect for the hot summer months.
I just love these diaper covers with the ruffles on the bottom.
I just love this outfit especially the pants. I'm beginning to do more applique and I just love how they make an outfit so much more cuter. I also love the peasant tops. These are just perfect for the hot summer months.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Peasant Top and Capri Set
This is a new outfit that I made for my grandaughter's birthday. I just love this peasant top pattern because it is so versatile. You can have just about any length that you want from a hip length to longer. This particular top is the longest length. The top can also be made without the ruffle. The length of the sleeves can also be different lengths. They come in cap like shown, short or long. The fabric is very bright and springlike. The sleeves are made from the same fabric as the capri pants. The sleeves can be made the sale color as top if desired.The capri pants are sold seperately and are made from the same fabric as the sleeves. A fun, colorful stip fabric that matches the top.
I don't have this posted on my website yet so I decided to share it here.
Monday, May 11, 2009
A new addition to the family
Well I can finally break the news!! My son Matt and his wife Tara are expecting a baby sometime in January. We are so excited for them. That will make 11 grandkids. Life just keeps better and better.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Happy Mother's Day Tribute
My mother passed away in 2002 but this is a tribute to her. I know she is still watching over me for I feel her presence each and everyday.
Happy Mother's Day
Happy Mother's Day
Monday, May 4, 2009
New Schooltime Jumper/Pinafore Dress
School is almost over for the summer but it won't be long before we are thinking back to school again and what better way to return than in this adorable jumper/pinafore dress. Made from a border print with school kids the bodice is fully lined and closes in the back with buttons. Self lined ties so no need to worry about wrong side showing through. Dress can be worn alone or dress it up with my petticoat dress or blouse that is sold seperately. Available in sizes 2-8. Matching hairbow and purse are also included. You can find this dress and other custom made outfits on my website
Saturday, April 18, 2009
The Invisible Mother
I know Mother's Day is not here yet but this story touched my heart so much that I wanted to share it with everyone. It will definitely open your perspective to the joys of being a Mom.
Invisible Mother......
It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone and ask to be taken to the store. Inside I'm thinking, 'Can't you see I'm on the phone?' Obviously, not. No one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at all. I'm invisible. The invisible Mom. Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more: Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this? Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm a clock to ask, 'What time is it?' I'm a satellite guide to answer, 'What number is the Disney Channel?' I'm a car to order, 'Right around 5:30, please.' I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history and the mind that graduated sum a cum laude - but now they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again. She's going; she's going; she is gone! One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England .. Janice had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in.. I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself. I was feeling pretty pathetic, when Janice turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, 'I brought you this.' It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe . I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription: 'To Charlotte , with admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees.' In the days ahead I would read - no, devour - the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which I could pattern my work: No one can say who built the great cathedrals - we have no record of their names. These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished. They made great sacrifices and expected no credit. The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything. A legendary story in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the >> cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, 'Why are you spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be covered by the roof? No one will ever see it.' And the workman replied, 'Because God sees.' I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place. It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, 'I see you, Charlotte. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does. No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no cupcake you've baked, is too small for me to notice and smile over.. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become.' At times, my invisibility feels like an affliction. But it is not a disease that is erasing my life. It is the cure for the disease of my own self-centeredness. It is the antidote to my strong, stubborn pride. I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on. The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime because there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree. When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, 'My Mom gets up at 4 in the morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand bastes a turkey for three hours and presses all the linens for the table.' That would mean I'd built a shrine or a monument to myself.. I just want him to want to come home. And then, if there is anything more to say to his friend, to add, 'you're gonna love it there.' As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're doing it right. And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible women. Great Job, MOM! Share this with all the Invisible Moms you know...I just did. Hope this encourages you when the going gets tough as it sometimes does. We never know what our finished products will turn out to be because of our perseverance.
Invisible Mother......
It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone and ask to be taken to the store. Inside I'm thinking, 'Can't you see I'm on the phone?' Obviously, not. No one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at all. I'm invisible. The invisible Mom. Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more: Can you fix this? Can you tie this? Can you open this? Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm a clock to ask, 'What time is it?' I'm a satellite guide to answer, 'What number is the Disney Channel?' I'm a car to order, 'Right around 5:30, please.' I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history and the mind that graduated sum a cum laude - but now they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again. She's going; she's going; she is gone! One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England .. Janice had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in.. I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself. I was feeling pretty pathetic, when Janice turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, 'I brought you this.' It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe . I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription: 'To Charlotte , with admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees.' In the days ahead I would read - no, devour - the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which I could pattern my work: No one can say who built the great cathedrals - we have no record of their names. These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished. They made great sacrifices and expected no credit. The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything. A legendary story in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the >> cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, 'Why are you spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be covered by the roof? No one will ever see it.' And the workman replied, 'Because God sees.' I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place. It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, 'I see you, Charlotte. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does. No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no cupcake you've baked, is too small for me to notice and smile over.. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become.' At times, my invisibility feels like an affliction. But it is not a disease that is erasing my life. It is the cure for the disease of my own self-centeredness. It is the antidote to my strong, stubborn pride. I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on. The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime because there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree. When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, 'My Mom gets up at 4 in the morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand bastes a turkey for three hours and presses all the linens for the table.' That would mean I'd built a shrine or a monument to myself.. I just want him to want to come home. And then, if there is anything more to say to his friend, to add, 'you're gonna love it there.' As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're doing it right. And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible women. Great Job, MOM! Share this with all the Invisible Moms you know...I just did. Hope this encourages you when the going gets tough as it sometimes does. We never know what our finished products will turn out to be because of our perseverance.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Attitude of Gratitude Award
Wow! I am so excited to have received this award from Liz of Craft from my heart http://craftfrommyheart.blogspot.com/. My networking skills are in the beginning stages but one thing I have learned is that there are alot of friends out there that have shown their support for me and my business and I would like to show my support to the following blogs by passing this Attitude of Gratitude award to them.
1. 2 under 2 whew http://2under2whew.blogspot.com/
2. Nothin' But Love http://bettszoo.blogspot.com/
3.Laurie's World http://laurie-lauriesworld.blogspot.com/
4. Milliron Family http://millironfamily.blogspot.com/
5. Fun Child Learning Activities http://mylittlerembrandt.blogspot.com/
6. Military Momz http://militarymomz.blogspot.com/
7. Grooby Baby Blog http://groovybabyblog.blogspot.com/
8. What Mommy Things http://whatmommythinks.blogspot.com/
9. A touch of Tabitha Bags http://www.atouchoftabitha.blogspot.com/
10.Life is Sweet http://1momof5.blogspot.com/
The Rules of Accepting and Sharing this Award1. Put the logo on your blog or post.2. Nominate at least 10 blogs that show an attitude of gratitude3. Link to your nominees within your post4. Comment on their blogs to let them know they’ve received this award5. Share the love and link to this post and the person who nominated you for the award. Tell us how you’ve come to have an attitude of gratitude.
Friday, April 3, 2009
New Dress Added to Site
I made this cute pillowcase dress for my grandaughter's birthday and have put in on my site. I love the black print with the cute little dogs. These dresses are so versatile because you can wear them alone or team it up with a blouse, t-shirt or turtleneck underneath. The straps make size adjusting a breeze. You can see this dress along with my other custom made outfits at my websitehttp://www.pinaforesandknickerbockers.com
Saturday, March 28, 2009
A great blog to support
I just ran across an awesome blog to help support our troups. Check it out and show your support.
http://2under2whew.blogspot.com/2009/03/support-our-troops-giveaway.html
http://2under2whew.blogspot.com/2009/03/support-our-troops-giveaway.html
Words from the Wise
1. When we get piled upon one another in large cities, as in Europe, we shall become as corrupt as Europe. Thomas Jefferson
2. The democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those who are willing to work and give to those who would not. Thomas Jefferson
3. It is incumbent on every generation to pay its own debts as it goes. A principle which if acted on would save one-half the wars of the world. Thomas Jefferson
4. I predict future happiness for Americans if they can prevent the government from wasting the labors of the people under the pretense of taking care of them. Thomas Jefferson
5. My reading of history convinces me that most bad government results from too much government. Thomas Jefferson
6. No free man shall ever be debarred the use of arms. Thomas Jefferson
7. The strongest reason for the people to retain the right to keep and bear arms is, as a last resort, to protect themselves against tyranny in government. Thomas Jefferson
8. The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants. Thomas Jefferson
9. To compel a man to subsidize with his taxes the propagation of ideas which he disbelieves and abhors is sinful and tyrannical. Thomas Jefferson
And One Very Interesting Quote. In light of the present financial crisis, it's interesting to read what Thomas Jefferson said in 1802: “I believe that banking institutions are more dangerous to our liberties than standing armies. If the American people ever allow private banks to control the issue of their currency, first by inflation, then by deflation, the banks and corporations that will grow up around the banks will deprive the people of all property until their children wake-up homeless on the continent their fathers conquered.”
2. The democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those who are willing to work and give to those who would not. Thomas Jefferson
3. It is incumbent on every generation to pay its own debts as it goes. A principle which if acted on would save one-half the wars of the world. Thomas Jefferson
4. I predict future happiness for Americans if they can prevent the government from wasting the labors of the people under the pretense of taking care of them. Thomas Jefferson
5. My reading of history convinces me that most bad government results from too much government. Thomas Jefferson
6. No free man shall ever be debarred the use of arms. Thomas Jefferson
7. The strongest reason for the people to retain the right to keep and bear arms is, as a last resort, to protect themselves against tyranny in government. Thomas Jefferson
8. The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants. Thomas Jefferson
9. To compel a man to subsidize with his taxes the propagation of ideas which he disbelieves and abhors is sinful and tyrannical. Thomas Jefferson
And One Very Interesting Quote. In light of the present financial crisis, it's interesting to read what Thomas Jefferson said in 1802: “I believe that banking institutions are more dangerous to our liberties than standing armies. If the American people ever allow private banks to control the issue of their currency, first by inflation, then by deflation, the banks and corporations that will grow up around the banks will deprive the people of all property until their children wake-up homeless on the continent their fathers conquered.”
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
The Return of Pinafores
"Little girls have been wearing pinafores for more than a hundred years. the graceful style is practical as well as pretty, and its popularity has not diminished over the years, nor is it likely to in the near future. " This quote was taken from a sewing book by Kitty Benton which was written in 1981. Sadly the pinafore is becoming a thing of the past which is the main reason I started my business Pinafores and Knickerbockers. When my daughter was small some 20 years ago it was very typical for her to be seen wearing a dress with a pinafore to church each Sunday but now it seems that little girls are trying so hard to dress like big girls that the classic dresses are disappearing.
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I love the article written by Kitty Benton on pinafores that I wanted to share it on my blog.
" In the nineteenth century, most dresses for little girls were made with no-nonsense serges and twills meant to to take the wear and tear inflicted by active young bodies and to last long enough to be passed on to younger sisters. They were also meant to to keep those bodies warm in houses heated only by fireplaces. In those days, it was far more difficult to keep clothes clean than it is now, so dresses were usually made in dark colors that minimized soil and, incidentally, reflected the more limited color palette of the period.
Hence, the invention of the pinafore. Pinafore fabric was washable, light in weight, relatively inexpensive and easy to replace, and-almost always- white. In fact, the origin of the word and the garment comes from the early custom of pinning an apron on the front (afore) of a dress to prevent soil. As to color, the freshness of white, its compatibility with every color, and the becoming way it highlights a child's face make it the choice for most piafores even today. Then, too, a white pinafore immediately dresses up the simplest of frocks, especially if accented with a ruffle, some eyelet or lace, a bow or two, or even a few embroidered flowers."
Best of all a pinafore can be easily and quickly made in a number of traditional styles, as seen in the photos of pinafores that I have made. Whatever style, the "pinney" is sure to bring out the figure of any little girl and at the same time it protects her best dress.
All pinafores can be purchased from my website.Monday, March 23, 2009
"that's Not My Job"
I have had this little story on my refrigerator for quite awhile and use it for my kids almost daily but I started thinking that it is also very relevant in our society today.
This is a story about four people named Everybody, Somebody, Anybody and Nobody. There was an important job to be done and Everybody was sure that Somebody would do it. Anybody could have done it, but Nobody did it. Somebody got angry about that, because it was Everybody's job. Everybody thought Anybody could do it, but Nobody realized that Everybody wouldn't do it. It ended up that Everybody blamed Somebody when Nobody did what Anybody could have.
This is a story about four people named Everybody, Somebody, Anybody and Nobody. There was an important job to be done and Everybody was sure that Somebody would do it. Anybody could have done it, but Nobody did it. Somebody got angry about that, because it was Everybody's job. Everybody thought Anybody could do it, but Nobody realized that Everybody wouldn't do it. It ended up that Everybody blamed Somebody when Nobody did what Anybody could have.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Care Bears Pinafore Dress
It's been awhile since I have added something new but I have finally been able to make another jumper/pinafore dress. This one is made from a cute border print with care bears.
You can find this dress along with all my other custom made outfits at my website
Friday, March 6, 2009
5th grade assignment-this is awesome!!
A fifth grade teacher in a Christian school asked her class to look at TV commercials and see if they could use them in some way to communicate ideas about God. Here are some of the results. It's nice to know that some of our youth still believe.
God is like. BAYER ASPIRIN He works miracles.
God is like. a FORD He's got a better idea.
God is like. COKE He's the real thing. (This is great)
God is like. HALLMARK CARDS He cares enough to send His very best.
God is like. TIDE He gets the stains out that others leave behind.
God is like. GENERAL ELECTRIC He brings good things to life.
God is like. SEARS He has everything.
God is like. ALKA-SELTZER Try Him, you'll like Him
God is like. SCOTCH TAPE You can't see Him, but you know He's there.
God is like. DELTA He's ready when you are.
God is like. ALLSTATE: You're in good hands with Him.
God is like. VO-5 Hair Spray He holds through all kinds of weather.
God is like. DIAL SOAP Aren't you glad you have Him? Don't you wish everybody did? (that one is my favorite)
God is like. the U.S. POST OFFICE Neither rain, nor snow, nor sleet nor ice will keep Him from His appointed destination.
God is like. Chevrolet. . .the heart beat of America
God is like Maxwell House. . Good to the very last drop
God is like. Bounty. . . He is the quicker picker upper. . can handle the tough jobs. . and He won't fall apart on you
Thursday, March 5, 2009
New Turtle Pantset
I got a head start on summer this year and this is the first of my summer outfits. Cute and bright purple turtle fabric with bright orange contrast make this a really fun outfit for any little girl to wear this summer when the weather turns warm. The top can also be worn in cooler months with a shirt underneath.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Enlightened Perspective
Please Read all the way to the bottom: If you will take the time to read these. I promise you'll come away with an enlightened perspective. The subjects covered affect us all on a daily basis:
They're written by Andy Rooney , a man who has the gift of saying so much with so few words. Enjoy.......
I've learned.... That the best classroom in the world is at the feet of an elderly person.
I've learned.... That when you're in love, it shows.
I've learned.... That just one person saying to me, 'You've made my day!' makes my day.
I've learned..... That having a child fall asleep in your arms is one of the most peaceful feelings in the world.
I've learned.... That being kind is more important than being right.
I've learned.... That you should never say no to a gift from a child.
I've learned.... That I can always pray for someone when I don't have the strength to help him in some other way.
I've learned.... That no matter how serious your life requires you to be, everyone needs a friend to act goofy with.
I've learned.... That sometimes all a person needs is a hand to hold and a heart to understand.
I've learned.... That simple walks with my father around the block on summer nights when I was a child did wonders for me as an adult.
I've learned.... That life is like a roll of toilet paper. The closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes.
I've learned.... That we should be glad God doesn't give us everything we ask for.
I've learned.... That money doesn't buy class.
I've learned.... That it's those small daily happenings that make life so spectacular.
I've learned... That under everyone's hard shell is someone who wants to be appreciated and loved.
I've learned.... That to ignore the facts does not change the facts.
I 've learned.... That when you plan to get even with someone, you are only letting that person continue to hurt you.
I've learned.... That love, not time, heals all wounds.
I've learned.... That the easiest way for me to grow as a person is to surround myself with people smarter than I am.
I've learned... That everyone you meet deserves to be greeted with a smile.
I've learned..... That no one is perfect until you fall in love with them.
I've learned... That life is tough, but I'm tougher.
I've learned.... That opportunities are never lost, someone will take the ones you miss.
I've learned.... That when you harbor bitterness, happiness will dock elsewhere.
I've learned.... That I wish I could have told my Mom that I love her one more time before she passed away.
I've learned.... That one should keep his words both soft and tender, because tomorrow he may have to eat them.
I've learned.... That a smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.
I've learned.... That when your newly born grandchild holds your little finger in his little fist, that you're hooked for life.
I've learned.... That everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and growth occurs while you're climbing it.
I've learned.... That the less time I have to work with, the more things I get done.
To all of you.... Make sure you read all the way down to the last sentence.
It's National Friendship Week. Show your friends how much you care. Send this to everyone you consider a FRIEND, even if it means sending it back to the person who sent it to you. If it comes back to you, then you'll know you have a circle of friends. HAPPY FRIENDSHIP WEEK TO YOU!!!!!! YOU ARE MY FRIEND AND I AM HONORED! Now send this to every friend you have!! And to your family. This was sent to me by a friend.
They're written by Andy Rooney , a man who has the gift of saying so much with so few words. Enjoy.......
I've learned.... That the best classroom in the world is at the feet of an elderly person.
I've learned.... That when you're in love, it shows.
I've learned.... That just one person saying to me, 'You've made my day!' makes my day.
I've learned..... That having a child fall asleep in your arms is one of the most peaceful feelings in the world.
I've learned.... That being kind is more important than being right.
I've learned.... That you should never say no to a gift from a child.
I've learned.... That I can always pray for someone when I don't have the strength to help him in some other way.
I've learned.... That no matter how serious your life requires you to be, everyone needs a friend to act goofy with.
I've learned.... That sometimes all a person needs is a hand to hold and a heart to understand.
I've learned.... That simple walks with my father around the block on summer nights when I was a child did wonders for me as an adult.
I've learned.... That life is like a roll of toilet paper. The closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes.
I've learned.... That we should be glad God doesn't give us everything we ask for.
I've learned.... That money doesn't buy class.
I've learned.... That it's those small daily happenings that make life so spectacular.
I've learned... That under everyone's hard shell is someone who wants to be appreciated and loved.
I've learned.... That to ignore the facts does not change the facts.
I 've learned.... That when you plan to get even with someone, you are only letting that person continue to hurt you.
I've learned.... That love, not time, heals all wounds.
I've learned.... That the easiest way for me to grow as a person is to surround myself with people smarter than I am.
I've learned... That everyone you meet deserves to be greeted with a smile.
I've learned..... That no one is perfect until you fall in love with them.
I've learned... That life is tough, but I'm tougher.
I've learned.... That opportunities are never lost, someone will take the ones you miss.
I've learned.... That when you harbor bitterness, happiness will dock elsewhere.
I've learned.... That I wish I could have told my Mom that I love her one more time before she passed away.
I've learned.... That one should keep his words both soft and tender, because tomorrow he may have to eat them.
I've learned.... That a smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.
I've learned.... That when your newly born grandchild holds your little finger in his little fist, that you're hooked for life.
I've learned.... That everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and growth occurs while you're climbing it.
I've learned.... That the less time I have to work with, the more things I get done.
To all of you.... Make sure you read all the way down to the last sentence.
It's National Friendship Week. Show your friends how much you care. Send this to everyone you consider a FRIEND, even if it means sending it back to the person who sent it to you. If it comes back to you, then you'll know you have a circle of friends. HAPPY FRIENDSHIP WEEK TO YOU!!!!!! YOU ARE MY FRIEND AND I AM HONORED! Now send this to every friend you have!! And to your family. This was sent to me by a friend.
Monday, March 2, 2009
You Know You Want To Play!
I got this idea from my husbands newphew's wife's (Kami) Blog and I wanted to pass it along. If you want to play, then leave me a comment and let me know. Once I receive your comment, then I will leave a comment on your Blog and I will assign you a letter ( A - Z ) After you get your letter, do a Blog Post ( copy and past these instructions first ) then use the letter I gave you and write TEN things you love. Remember that each of those things HAS to start with the letter I give you.
Kami assigned me the letter is L, so here we go !
1. Lemons: I love lemons but not the regular lemons. When I was a little girl I bought my grandpa a Meyer lemon tree and learned that these lemons are not really sour. My mother used to eat them like oranges and I picked up her bad habit. When we moved to Mesa I told Gary that I had to buy one for my backyard and this past year I had lots of lemons to eat. Actually I didn't eat too many since they aren't good for your teeth. I did make lots of lemonade and a lemon meringue pie.
2.Licorice: I like the black licorice the best.
3. Laughing: Laughing can take away alot of stress for me. I love to watch comedies and even more love to laugh with my grandkids.
4. Lightening Bugs: You don't see them here but when my kids were little we lived back east and they would collect them in jars and bring them inside to watch them light up.
5. Looking: I love to look around me each day and see what beauty I can see. Heavenly Father has given us so many beautiful things to look at and most of the time I'm afraid we don't take the time to really look at what is around us.
6.Learning: I love to learn new things especially when it comes to sewing.
7.Lace: I love putting lace on the little girl dresses that I make. I am starting a collection of laces that I find in antique stores and using them on my blessing gowns.
8. Lounging: I love to just lie around and do nothing. Pity that I don't do it hardly ever but I do try and lie still for a few minutes each day to meditate.
9. Living: Not just getting up everyday but truly living the way Heavenly Father intended us to. Caring for each other and enjoying each and everyday and finding something good in everyting that happens to us.
10. Love: Most of all I like love. The way it makes me feel when I know I'm loved and loving others unconditionally. Eternal love is the greatest gift we have been given for it has no bounds.
Now it's your turn. Leave me a comment and I'll give you a letter so you can play along.
Have fun!!
Kami assigned me the letter is L, so here we go !
1. Lemons: I love lemons but not the regular lemons. When I was a little girl I bought my grandpa a Meyer lemon tree and learned that these lemons are not really sour. My mother used to eat them like oranges and I picked up her bad habit. When we moved to Mesa I told Gary that I had to buy one for my backyard and this past year I had lots of lemons to eat. Actually I didn't eat too many since they aren't good for your teeth. I did make lots of lemonade and a lemon meringue pie.
2.Licorice: I like the black licorice the best.
3. Laughing: Laughing can take away alot of stress for me. I love to watch comedies and even more love to laugh with my grandkids.
4. Lightening Bugs: You don't see them here but when my kids were little we lived back east and they would collect them in jars and bring them inside to watch them light up.
5. Looking: I love to look around me each day and see what beauty I can see. Heavenly Father has given us so many beautiful things to look at and most of the time I'm afraid we don't take the time to really look at what is around us.
6.Learning: I love to learn new things especially when it comes to sewing.
7.Lace: I love putting lace on the little girl dresses that I make. I am starting a collection of laces that I find in antique stores and using them on my blessing gowns.
8. Lounging: I love to just lie around and do nothing. Pity that I don't do it hardly ever but I do try and lie still for a few minutes each day to meditate.
9. Living: Not just getting up everyday but truly living the way Heavenly Father intended us to. Caring for each other and enjoying each and everyday and finding something good in everyting that happens to us.
10. Love: Most of all I like love. The way it makes me feel when I know I'm loved and loving others unconditionally. Eternal love is the greatest gift we have been given for it has no bounds.
Now it's your turn. Leave me a comment and I'll give you a letter so you can play along.
Have fun!!
Thursday, February 26, 2009
In Memory Of A Great Lady
Yesterday at 1:17 pm my kids grandma and my ex mother in law passed away. She was my mother in law for 20 years so of course I am sad to see her go but I'm also happy that she is no longer having to deal with sickness that she dealt with all the time I knew her. There were times when we didn't get along but I think as we both got older we became more tolerant of each other and more understanding of each other's place. She loved her family more than anything in this world and there wasn't anything she wouldn't do for her husband, kids and grandkids. She loved to feed people more than anything and you could be guaranteed an excellent and filling meal when she cooked. It didn't matter what time of day or night it was, if you came to her house she was ready to prepare a full course meal for you. There were times when we would go visit them and we would arrive late at night or early in the morning and her first words were "are you hungry, can I fix you something to eat" you wouldn't get just a sandwich you would get the whole works. She loved to help people and I guess that is why she made the perfect nurse when she was younger. I can remember when she would be in the hospital herself because of sickness and we would go visit her but of course she wouldn't be in her room. She would be in someone else's room trying to help them. Sometimes she could be a little overbearing but as I said before as I got older I learned to realize that it was her way of showing love.
I'm sure there was a happy reunion when she crossed to the other side of the veil with her family members that have gone before. I especially visualize her hugging her grandaughter Kari,my daughter that was stillborn, that she has never seen. What a special moment that must have been.
Bryan my son was very upset when he learned that she had passed and I tried to explain to him my philosophy on death and birth. I remember when my first grandchild was born I could picture her grandparents,who had died a few year ago, and even my daughter telling her goodbye as she left her Heavenly home to come be her parents on this earth. I'm sure they were sad to see her go because they would miss her and they didn't know how long it would be before they would be able to see her again. But they knew they would see her again so they said goodbye and waited. Now I can also visualize Grandma Betts family members on the other side of the veil welcoming her back home while those of us left on this earth mourn for her. We are sad to see her go because we will miss her and we don't know how long it will be before we see her again. But we know we will see her again so we say our goodbyes and wait for the day when we are reunited again as an eternal family.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
I can so relate to this quote.
QUOTE OF THE DAY:Harold B. Lee
"Don't be afraid of the testing and trials of life. Sometimes when you are going through the most severe tests, you will be nearer to God than you have any idea, for like the experience of the Master Himself in the temptation on the mount, in the Garden of Gethsemane, and on the cross at Calvary, the scriptures record, 'And, behold, angels came and ministered unto him' (Matthew 4:11). Sometimes that may happen to you in the midst of your trials" (The Teachings of Harold B. Lee, p. 192).
"Don't be afraid of the testing and trials of life. Sometimes when you are going through the most severe tests, you will be nearer to God than you have any idea, for like the experience of the Master Himself in the temptation on the mount, in the Garden of Gethsemane, and on the cross at Calvary, the scriptures record, 'And, behold, angels came and ministered unto him' (Matthew 4:11). Sometimes that may happen to you in the midst of your trials" (The Teachings of Harold B. Lee, p. 192).
Monday, February 23, 2009
Bryan's Special Day
On Feb 18 Bryan turned 12 and Sunday he was ordained a Deacon. He had been anticipating this day for quite some time and the night before he said he was so excited that he couldn't sleep. It was so neat to see him excited about receiving the priesthood and learning new things.
A college education does not make a person smarter than everyone else
Now don't get me wrong a college education is a good thing and there are times when I regret not going to college. I chose to stay home and raise 5 kids while my husband (at the time) got the college degree. But when that happened all of a sudden I became stupid. I suppose I never really noticed it until after we were divorced of course and than he remarried a woman with a college degree and than I became even dumber. Even in court he stated that having a college degree made you a better mom. Is it any wonder after 20 years of marriage I lost my self esteem?
Anyway the point of all this is after the divorce I went to school and became an esthetician which is a person that knows skin. We were having a discussion about tans and if they were healthy or not and I stated that a tan is the body telling you that you have had too much sun and it isn't healthy. Oh boy I was quickly told that I was wrong and that college education knew more about skin than a person that studied skin.
Well after everyone was gone I read up on the subject and here is what I found.
"You see a 'beautiful tan' and your immediate thought might be that it is healthy looking, however that tanned look is actually your skin's response to the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation. Ultraviolet rays from the sun penetrate into the upper layers of unprotected skin, quickly damaging skin cells even before you start showing any signs of sunburn or tan. That 'healthy glow' is caused by the release of enzymes by your skin's defense mechanism, in an attempt to repair the damaged cells--basically your body's cry for help"
Just because I don't have a college degree there are still some things that I feel I have alot of knowledge on and one of those areas is the skin.
Probably anyone who is reading this is saying "ok so what you were right" and really it isn't that big of a deal but what is a big deal is that now even though I'm divorced from the man my son is starting to show the same signs of treating me like I'm stupid and can't have an intelligent converstation and that truly bothers me. It amazes me how you can heal from a controlling relationship but it only takes one incident to bring everything all back again and you start back at square one.
Anyway the point of all this is after the divorce I went to school and became an esthetician which is a person that knows skin. We were having a discussion about tans and if they were healthy or not and I stated that a tan is the body telling you that you have had too much sun and it isn't healthy. Oh boy I was quickly told that I was wrong and that college education knew more about skin than a person that studied skin.
Well after everyone was gone I read up on the subject and here is what I found.
"You see a 'beautiful tan' and your immediate thought might be that it is healthy looking, however that tanned look is actually your skin's response to the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation. Ultraviolet rays from the sun penetrate into the upper layers of unprotected skin, quickly damaging skin cells even before you start showing any signs of sunburn or tan. That 'healthy glow' is caused by the release of enzymes by your skin's defense mechanism, in an attempt to repair the damaged cells--basically your body's cry for help"
Just because I don't have a college degree there are still some things that I feel I have alot of knowledge on and one of those areas is the skin.
Probably anyone who is reading this is saying "ok so what you were right" and really it isn't that big of a deal but what is a big deal is that now even though I'm divorced from the man my son is starting to show the same signs of treating me like I'm stupid and can't have an intelligent converstation and that truly bothers me. It amazes me how you can heal from a controlling relationship but it only takes one incident to bring everything all back again and you start back at square one.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Chris Harris Initial Flight Solo
This is an excerpt from an email I got from Chris Harris, our son in law, about his first initial solo while he is in flight training in Enid Ok.
"Today I got to fly a semi-expensive Air Force jet by my self. Here are a few pics of the event. The mighty Oklahoma winds were gusting 28-34 knots which made it even more interesting. What a thrill though."
We are really proud of all the hard work he is doing to support our daughter. They say that no one is ever good enough to marry your little girl but I have to say that he is all we could have hoped for in a son in law.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
I received an other wonderful email today that really gave me a chuckle. Hope it's makes you laugh as well.
=
If you are in need of a chuckle read this!
Girlie Wisdom! 1. A friend of mine confused her Valium with her birth control pills... she has 14 kids but doesn't really care.
2. One of life's mysteries is how a 2-pound box of chocolates can make a woman gain 5 lbs.
3. My mind not only wanders, it sometimes leaves completely.
4. The best way to forget your troubles is to wear tight shoes.
5. The nice part about living in a small town is that when you don't know what you are doing, someone else does.
6. The older you get, the tougher it is to lose weight because by then, your body and your fat are really good friends.
7. Just when I was getting used to yesterday, along came today.
8. Sometimes I think I understand everything, and then I regain consciousness.
9. I gave up jogging for my health when my thighs kept rubbing together and setting fire to my knicker's.
10. Amazing! You hang something in your closet for a while and it shrinks 2 sizes!
11. Skinny people irritate me! Especially when they say things like...'You know sometimes I forget to eat!' .....Now I've forgotten my address, my mother's maiden name and my keys, but I have never forgotten to eat. You have to be a special kind of stupid to forget to eat!1
12. The trouble with some women is that they get all excited about nothing and then they marry him!
13. I read this article that said the typical symptoms of stress are eating too much, impulse buying, and driving too fast.. Are they kidding? That's my idea of a perfect day! SEND THIS TO 5 BRIGHT WOMEN YOU KNOW AND MAKE THEIR DAY!!! LIVE SIMPLY.....LAUGH OFTEN....LOVE DEEPLY
=
If you are in need of a chuckle read this!
Girlie Wisdom! 1. A friend of mine confused her Valium with her birth control pills... she has 14 kids but doesn't really care.
2. One of life's mysteries is how a 2-pound box of chocolates can make a woman gain 5 lbs.
3. My mind not only wanders, it sometimes leaves completely.
4. The best way to forget your troubles is to wear tight shoes.
5. The nice part about living in a small town is that when you don't know what you are doing, someone else does.
6. The older you get, the tougher it is to lose weight because by then, your body and your fat are really good friends.
7. Just when I was getting used to yesterday, along came today.
8. Sometimes I think I understand everything, and then I regain consciousness.
9. I gave up jogging for my health when my thighs kept rubbing together and setting fire to my knicker's.
10. Amazing! You hang something in your closet for a while and it shrinks 2 sizes!
11. Skinny people irritate me! Especially when they say things like...'You know sometimes I forget to eat!' .....Now I've forgotten my address, my mother's maiden name and my keys, but I have never forgotten to eat. You have to be a special kind of stupid to forget to eat!1
12. The trouble with some women is that they get all excited about nothing and then they marry him!
13. I read this article that said the typical symptoms of stress are eating too much, impulse buying, and driving too fast.. Are they kidding? That's my idea of a perfect day! SEND THIS TO 5 BRIGHT WOMEN YOU KNOW AND MAKE THEIR DAY!!! LIVE SIMPLY.....LAUGH OFTEN....LOVE DEEPLY
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Julia Lynn Betts Blessing Day
Today was Julia's blessing and she look beautiful. She is the sweetest thing and has such a sweet disposition. I arrived to her house early so that I could get some pictures of her in her dress and she was so sweet and patient with me while I was getting her dressed. She didn't cry once and took everything in stride. What a sweet spirit she has.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Baby Girl Christening Gown "Finally"
I'm so excited to be able to share this baby girl christening gown with you. I have 2 baby boy christening rompers on my site but I have never taken the time to make a gown for a baby girl. Well when we were blessed with a sweet little grandaughter last November I had my excuse. My husband says I went way overboard but you should have seen one of my grandaughter's baptism dress. I had so much fun making this for her and hope that someday she will dress her own little girl in it and pass it down from generation to generation.
I will be posting the dress on my website next week but wanted to share it with you before than.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Pretty little pink dress
This is the newest of my dresses with a pinafore. This was made for a customer's grandaughter who is entered in a pageant. I was thinking a pink gingham would have been really cute but the pageant rules are solid color only so that is why the dress is pink. I haven't posted this on my website yet but wanted to share it with all of you first. It will be posted this evening or tomorrow for sure.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
New Valentine Designs
< 
Here are 3 tops that I have made that are perfect for anytime of the year but could also be perfect for Valentines Day. I have also made up 2 different pants designs and 1 capri. I plan on making these same tops out of different fabrics as time allows. You can take a look at them at my website. They will be in the tops and bottoms section.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Save Handmade Children Items
This is so well written, I’m just going to copy and link because I couldn’t have said it any better. Please, take action. This affects everyone.This is a blog post on Boutique Cafe by Heather.
The Sky is Falling - CPSIA Issue
December 17th, 2008 by Daria
Article by: Heather Flottman
Owner/Designer
liliputians NYC
The sky is falling! Yes, I feel a like an overly dramatic Chicken Little. And I wish it were true considering recent congressional legislation is about to crush the life out of the handmade clothing and toy industry. I’m talking about H.R. 4040, the Consumer Protection Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) signed into law August 14, 2008, and the ramifications it will have when it goes into effect February 10, 2009 (now being popularly referred to as National Bankruptcy Day).
Make no mistake. CPSIA was necessary in principle and has noble intentions, keeping our children safe and holding companies accountable for importing toxic toys. We all demand safety for our children and this is the intent of CPSIA; specifically to ensure safe levels of lead and phthalates in all products manufactured for children under the age of 12. Unfortunately this legislation lacks common sense, is ambiguous and fails to take into account the handmade industry.
What you see is not what you get with CPSIA. There is no distinction between big, small, or even micro one-person businesses. Whether it’s a large-scale manufacturer importing apparel to be sold in big box stores, or a work-at-home mom (WAHM) selling customs on ebay, the legislation applies the same to all.
Unit testing will be required on finished products, regardless if the components are natural materials or if you have documentation from a vendor stating that buttons, for example, are certified lead-free. As it stands, H.R. 4040 fails to recognize that textile products are inherently lead-free. Why then is an organic cotton shirt being tested for lead exactly?
Unit testing is extremely cost prohibitive to small business, but worse, it is unnecessary. In fact, it is completely redundant if the components that comprise the whole have already been tested and due diligence can prove they meet the guidelines.
To put a real dollar amount to testing one of my products, I solicited a lab quote. I was told it was $75 to test for lead per garment component and each substrate. Coated or painted items such as buttons are $100. So my Little Red Riding Hood Shirt, a 100% cotton knit shirt with an appliqué made from 7 cotton fabrics and 2 buttons eyes would cost $625 to test for lead. Flammability testing is also required and is either $50 for a certificate per component stating it meets weight code or $100 for actual testing. So add another $400-$800 for a grand total of $1,025-$1425. in testing costs for a shirt that retails for $40. If the shirt is offered in another colorway, the same testing is required despite the fact that the same fabrics are used throughout.
Small manufacturers have no way of absorbing the price of such redundancy. And all manufacturers will be required to test a finished component/item from each batch. Easy to do in mass production—simply pull one sample from a lot of thousands. But how does one comply when your “batches” are made-to-order batches of one? SKUs will also be required for each product with a permanent label on the item itself.
CPSIA will be retroactive and takes a guilty-until-proven-innocent approach with extremely hefty fines for violators. As written, any product used by children 12 and under (such as toys, footwear, carpets, clothing, bedding, luggage, lamps, toys, books, magazines, baseball cards, consumer electronics, school supplies, office supplies, jewelry, housewares, sports equipment and so on) without the newly required certification would be deemed hazardous, whether the item poses an actual threat or not. So on February 10, 2009, any unsold merchandise (in big box stores, the corner boutique, your fabric stash, Good Will donations, etc.) will be deemed “hazardous goods” and illegal to sell unless 3rd party testing proves otherwise. By the way, there are only 14 said labs currently in the United States.
Think you won’t be affected?
I hope not, but the sad truth is that hundreds of thousands (if not millions) will be. Do you make children’s clothing, toys, jewelry, hair bows, accessories, furniture, artwork or anything else “intended for use by children age 12 and under”? Are you a retailer of children’s goods? Do you resell used children’s clothing or toys on ebay? Do you participate or shop at craft fairs? Do you donate used children’s items to needy organizations? Do you belong to a church that has rummage sales as a fundraiser? Does your child play sports and get their uniforms from a local screen print shop? Are you a consumer shopping for alternatives to mass-produced toys? If so, this law takes away that freedom.
Surely this legislation can be amended by incorporating some common sense and still make it possible to ensure our children’s safety without further hurting the US economy. According to the 2002 Economic Census (the last survey of its type), small U.S. clothing manufacturers (with fewer than 20 employees) contribute over $900 million dollars [consider: nearly $1 billion dollars] annually to the economy and comprise 68% of total apparel manufacturing in the U.S. This is clearly a vital and contributing asset to our economy. Multiply this fallout exponentially when you take into account the myriad other manufacturers, retailers and businesses that will be hurt or ultimately driven out of business.
So, why should you support amending this legislation?
Because the CPSIA isn’t fair and will not function as written. It inadvertently punishes American industries unrelated to toys and will ultimately result in fewer alternatives to mass produced merchandise made in China. The concept that small producers should be subject to the same rigorous standards but with lesser regulation (and common sense) has already been fought for and sustained in the food industry, which is why your local farmers market still exists. Now this same idea needs to be applied to children’s products.
What can you do?
Email or call the CPSIA - the office of the CPSC (888) 531-9070.Consumer Product Safety Commission
Comments on Component Parts Testing accepted through January 30, 2009.CPSCE-mail Address.
Email or snail mail your representatives.Contact Congress
Call your representatives. For their contact information just enter your zip code. Contact Representatives
Make your voice heard by voting on this issue. The top 3 in each category will be presented to President-elect Obama.Change by Obama
Sign the petition.CPSIA Petition
Spread the word! Write about this on your blog. Tell others about this issue and encourage them to do the same.
Join others in fighting this cause.Facebook GroupTwitter Searchhttp://cpsia-central.ning.com/notes/Notes_Home
Join the Etsy community in the virtual chat with CPSIA Small Business Ombudsmen or send a handmade children’s item that will become “hazardous goods” as of 2/9/09 to Bobby Rush, founder of H.R. 4040.Etsy GroupEtsy Thread
Read more about this legislation and its ramifications:
Fashion Incubator
Handmade Toy Alliance
National Bankruptcy Day
YouTube video
YouTube Video
YouTube Video
5 Minutes for Mom
Cool Mom Picks
The Smart Mama
blogher
Apparel and Footwear.org
Toy Association.org
Cafe Mom
Safety and Compliance
Zrecommends
SleepingBaby.net
Freshly Baked Blog
MORE INFORMATION:
Petition:http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/e...SIA/index.html
About the bill:http://www.cpsc.gov/ABOUT/Cpsia/legislation.html
Read more about what's being dubbed National Bankruptcy Day here:
http://nationalbankruptcyday.com/
The Sky is Falling - CPSIA Issue
December 17th, 2008 by Daria
Article by: Heather Flottman
Owner/Designer
liliputians NYC
The sky is falling! Yes, I feel a like an overly dramatic Chicken Little. And I wish it were true considering recent congressional legislation is about to crush the life out of the handmade clothing and toy industry. I’m talking about H.R. 4040, the Consumer Protection Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) signed into law August 14, 2008, and the ramifications it will have when it goes into effect February 10, 2009 (now being popularly referred to as National Bankruptcy Day).
Make no mistake. CPSIA was necessary in principle and has noble intentions, keeping our children safe and holding companies accountable for importing toxic toys. We all demand safety for our children and this is the intent of CPSIA; specifically to ensure safe levels of lead and phthalates in all products manufactured for children under the age of 12. Unfortunately this legislation lacks common sense, is ambiguous and fails to take into account the handmade industry.
What you see is not what you get with CPSIA. There is no distinction between big, small, or even micro one-person businesses. Whether it’s a large-scale manufacturer importing apparel to be sold in big box stores, or a work-at-home mom (WAHM) selling customs on ebay, the legislation applies the same to all.
Unit testing will be required on finished products, regardless if the components are natural materials or if you have documentation from a vendor stating that buttons, for example, are certified lead-free. As it stands, H.R. 4040 fails to recognize that textile products are inherently lead-free. Why then is an organic cotton shirt being tested for lead exactly?
Unit testing is extremely cost prohibitive to small business, but worse, it is unnecessary. In fact, it is completely redundant if the components that comprise the whole have already been tested and due diligence can prove they meet the guidelines.
To put a real dollar amount to testing one of my products, I solicited a lab quote. I was told it was $75 to test for lead per garment component and each substrate. Coated or painted items such as buttons are $100. So my Little Red Riding Hood Shirt, a 100% cotton knit shirt with an appliqué made from 7 cotton fabrics and 2 buttons eyes would cost $625 to test for lead. Flammability testing is also required and is either $50 for a certificate per component stating it meets weight code or $100 for actual testing. So add another $400-$800 for a grand total of $1,025-$1425. in testing costs for a shirt that retails for $40. If the shirt is offered in another colorway, the same testing is required despite the fact that the same fabrics are used throughout.
Small manufacturers have no way of absorbing the price of such redundancy. And all manufacturers will be required to test a finished component/item from each batch. Easy to do in mass production—simply pull one sample from a lot of thousands. But how does one comply when your “batches” are made-to-order batches of one? SKUs will also be required for each product with a permanent label on the item itself.
CPSIA will be retroactive and takes a guilty-until-proven-innocent approach with extremely hefty fines for violators. As written, any product used by children 12 and under (such as toys, footwear, carpets, clothing, bedding, luggage, lamps, toys, books, magazines, baseball cards, consumer electronics, school supplies, office supplies, jewelry, housewares, sports equipment and so on) without the newly required certification would be deemed hazardous, whether the item poses an actual threat or not. So on February 10, 2009, any unsold merchandise (in big box stores, the corner boutique, your fabric stash, Good Will donations, etc.) will be deemed “hazardous goods” and illegal to sell unless 3rd party testing proves otherwise. By the way, there are only 14 said labs currently in the United States.
Think you won’t be affected?
I hope not, but the sad truth is that hundreds of thousands (if not millions) will be. Do you make children’s clothing, toys, jewelry, hair bows, accessories, furniture, artwork or anything else “intended for use by children age 12 and under”? Are you a retailer of children’s goods? Do you resell used children’s clothing or toys on ebay? Do you participate or shop at craft fairs? Do you donate used children’s items to needy organizations? Do you belong to a church that has rummage sales as a fundraiser? Does your child play sports and get their uniforms from a local screen print shop? Are you a consumer shopping for alternatives to mass-produced toys? If so, this law takes away that freedom.
Surely this legislation can be amended by incorporating some common sense and still make it possible to ensure our children’s safety without further hurting the US economy. According to the 2002 Economic Census (the last survey of its type), small U.S. clothing manufacturers (with fewer than 20 employees) contribute over $900 million dollars [consider: nearly $1 billion dollars] annually to the economy and comprise 68% of total apparel manufacturing in the U.S. This is clearly a vital and contributing asset to our economy. Multiply this fallout exponentially when you take into account the myriad other manufacturers, retailers and businesses that will be hurt or ultimately driven out of business.
So, why should you support amending this legislation?
Because the CPSIA isn’t fair and will not function as written. It inadvertently punishes American industries unrelated to toys and will ultimately result in fewer alternatives to mass produced merchandise made in China. The concept that small producers should be subject to the same rigorous standards but with lesser regulation (and common sense) has already been fought for and sustained in the food industry, which is why your local farmers market still exists. Now this same idea needs to be applied to children’s products.
What can you do?
Email or call the CPSIA - the office of the CPSC (888) 531-9070.Consumer Product Safety Commission
Comments on Component Parts Testing accepted through January 30, 2009.CPSCE-mail Address.
Email or snail mail your representatives.Contact Congress
Call your representatives. For their contact information just enter your zip code. Contact Representatives
Make your voice heard by voting on this issue. The top 3 in each category will be presented to President-elect Obama.Change by Obama
Sign the petition.CPSIA Petition
Spread the word! Write about this on your blog. Tell others about this issue and encourage them to do the same.
Join others in fighting this cause.Facebook GroupTwitter Searchhttp://cpsia-central.ning.com/notes/Notes_Home
Join the Etsy community in the virtual chat with CPSIA Small Business Ombudsmen or send a handmade children’s item that will become “hazardous goods” as of 2/9/09 to Bobby Rush, founder of H.R. 4040.Etsy GroupEtsy Thread
Read more about this legislation and its ramifications:
Fashion Incubator
Handmade Toy Alliance
National Bankruptcy Day
YouTube video
YouTube Video
YouTube Video
5 Minutes for Mom
Cool Mom Picks
The Smart Mama
blogher
Apparel and Footwear.org
Toy Association.org
Cafe Mom
Safety and Compliance
Zrecommends
SleepingBaby.net
Freshly Baked Blog
MORE INFORMATION:
Petition:http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/e...SIA/index.html
About the bill:http://www.cpsc.gov/ABOUT/Cpsia/legislation.html
Read more about what's being dubbed National Bankruptcy Day here:
http://nationalbankruptcyday.com/
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