Cuffs and Ruffles

CareBear peasant dress

2012-01-28T18:57:00.002-07:00

I'm slowly getting back into sewing and this is the second new outfit I have made. Inspired by one of my grandaughters who loves CareBears. I love the little girly appeal of this dress with the double row of ruffles.

Sweet Reversible Open Back Dress

2011-01-20T14:29:00.003-07:00

I made this reversible open back dress back in December for my grandaughter Evangeline and just got around to adding it to my website. You can check it out in my Etsy Shop.

New Year New Ideas

2011-01-11T08:00:00.002-07:00

I have temporarily closed my Etsy and Ebay shop so that I can work on some new ideas that have been on my mind for quite sometime. First I have been wanting to find a way of helping children less fortunate than my own. My children are very blessed as I have been over the years including the wonderful blessing I have been given by my Heavenly Father of knowing how to sew. I would like to return the favor by sewing for those that are less fortunate. This project will be called Threads of Hope and will be two fold. First the sample outfits that I make for my website will be donated to a charity that helps to clothe needy children and second as soon as I reopen my site I will be donating 10% of all sales to an organization called Tim and Willy's Kids FunDation. This organization helps children all year long with not just clothing but in so many ways that I would like to participate.

My other project was brought to my attention by another mom when she suggested that I make clothing for children that require larger sizes. So that is what I'm working on , finding patterns and designs for those children that don't fit the perfect tiny mold which I was one and I have a child like that as well. I'm working feverishly on these projects as well as continuing with my sewing classes but as soon as I'm ready to reopen I will post here and on my facebook account.

A New Year

2011-01-07T08:00:00.004-07:00

A new year is upon us and that means new beginnings, a fresh start and what better way to start a new year than with this fantastic giveaway by pigtailsandquilts.com for a $50.00 gift certificate to my favorite fabric shop Fat Quarter Shop. There are several ways to enter and you can find all the info on pigtails and quilts blot

Toddlers and Girls Classic Twirling Dress

2010-10-15T16:31:00.003-07:00

This cute little dress will bring out the sweet angel of every little girl. Made from different stips of fabric from April Cornell collection in blues and yellows which bring back memories of spring and summer. Full skirt makes for lots of twirling power and the dress is even more full and poofy when worn over my petticoat slip with netting ruffles. Dress size 1-3 comes with matching bloomers. Dress closes in the back with buttons. Neck and sleeves are trimmed with a contrasting band. Available in sizes 1-6. You can find this dress and other custom made outfits in my Etsy Shop

Christmas Jumper/Pinafore Dress

2010-10-13T13:24:00.004-07:00

Beautiful poinsettias with the slightest gold metallic edging made this jumper/pinafore dress a very beautiful Christmas dress for any little girl. Bodice is fully lined and closes in back with buttons. Beautiful gold satin bow is fully lined so no need to worry about wrong side showing. Wear alone or for extra fullness and warmth add my white petticoat dress. My petticoat slip with netting ruffles is also added to add extra fullness.
Dress is available in sizes 3-8. You can find this dress and others in my Etsy shop.

Halloween outfits

2010-08-22T10:39:00.005-07:00

I know it's not even the end of August yet but in the sewing world I have to keep ahead of the holidays so here are a couple of Halloween outfits that I have made up. The spider skirt is an outfit I made up last year and the other one is new for this year. Both of them can be found on my Artfire shop or in my Etsy shop.

Coolest kids on the block

2010-06-06T10:32:00.004-07:00

Eyelet Ruffled Top with Pants

2010-03-26T06:22:00.004-07:00

A cute little appliqued kitty sitting on top of a heart with an initial appliqued on center helps to make this ruffled top and pants a favorite for your little girl. Comes in sizes 6 mos - 6. Ruffled diaper covers are available for sizes 6 mos - 18 mos. More photos are available in my Etsy shop.

Ruffled Top and shorts or ruffled diaper cover

2010-03-16T17:56:00.005-07:00

Cute and ruffly top with hearts bouquet appliqued on front. Shorts have contrasting ruffles and for infants ruffled diaper covers. I can't wait to see my grandaughter in it. I especially love the ruffled diaper covers.

Baby Girl Christening/Blessing Gown

2010-03-08T18:38:00.003-07:00

Here is my latest christening/blessing gown made from white beaded eyelet. The bottom has 2 rows of pink satin ribbon threaded thru the beading. There is also beaded eyelet trim at the waist with pink satin ribbon with a long pink satin ribbon bow on the front. Available in sizes NB - 18 months.

For the little sailor

2009-08-09T06:52:00.002-07:00

Perfect for all those sailing adventures your little boy has. There are more pictures available on my webiste. http://www.pinaforesandknickerbockers.com

Thanksgiving Dress

2009-08-09T06:49:00.002-07:00

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

2009-08-09T06:43:00.004-07:00

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/

Emma's Birthday Dress

2009-06-07T21:07:00.006-07:00

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.

The last two new items

2009-06-06T19:56:00.008-07:00

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 Pillow case Dress

2009-06-06T19:55:00.001-07:00

I love the whimsical flowers on this dress.

Ruffled pillowcase top

2009-06-06T19:46:00.011-07:00

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

2009-06-06T19:35:00.006-07:00

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.

Peasant Top and Capri Set

2009-05-25T19:49:00.003-07:00

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.

A new addition to the family

2009-05-11T07:13:00.001-07:00

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.

Happy Mother's Day Tribute

2009-05-10T06:21:00.001-07:00

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

New Schooltime Jumper/Pinafore Dress

2009-05-04T12:36:00.002-07:00

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

The Invisible Mother

2009-04-18T11:01:00.002-07:00

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.

Attitude of Gratitude Award

2009-04-14T08:47:00.003-07:00

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.

New Dress Added to Site

2009-04-03T21:01:00.003-07:00

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 website
http://www.pinaforesandknickerbockers.com

A great blog to support

2009-03-28T11:44:00.001-07:00

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

Words from the Wise

2009-03-28T11:31:00.001-07:00

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.”

The Return of Pinafores

2009-03-25T06:59:00.008-07:00

"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.

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.

"that's Not My Job"

2009-03-23T20:25:00.002-07:00

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.

Care Bears Pinafore Dress

2009-03-18T16:20:00.002-07:00

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

5th grade assignment-this is awesome!!

2009-03-06T10:56:00.003-07:00

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

New Turtle Pantset

2009-03-05T14:00:00.003-07:00

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.

Enlightened Perspective

2009-03-03T06:31:00.000-07:00

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.

You Know You Want To Play!

2009-03-02T08:18:00.002-07:00

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!!

In Memory Of A Great Lady

2009-02-26T12:36:00.004-07:00

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.

I can so relate to this quote.

2009-02-24T07:39:00.000-07:00

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).

Bryan's Special Day

2009-02-23T09:37:00.003-07:00

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

2009-02-23T06:37:00.003-07:00

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.

Happy Friday Everyone

2009-02-20T08:24:00.001-07:00

A Great Quote

2009-02-19T09:02:00.001-07:00

QUOTE OF THE DAY:Heber J. Grant

"I want to emphasize that we as a people have one supreme thing to do, and that is to call upon the world to repent of sin, to come to God. And it is our duty above all others to go forth and proclaim the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ, the restoration again to the earth of the plan of life and salvation. . . . The Latter-day Saints should so organize their affairs, and so shape their finances, that more will be ready and willing, especially those of age and experience, with a testimony and knowledge of the divinity of this work, to go forth, not only on short, but on long missions. Too many of us are gradually setting our hearts upon the things of this world. We have so much to look after, so many business interests, so many important things, so far as dollars and cents are concerned, that we are neglecting the one great thing of all; namely, the proclaiming of the gospel." (Gospel Standards, p. 104-105).

Chris Harris Initial Flight Solo

2009-02-08T08:57:00.003-07:00

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.

2009-02-07T11:08:00.002-07:00

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

Julia Lynn Betts Blessing Day

2009-02-01T20:15:00.002-07:00

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.

Baby Girl Christening Gown "Finally"

2009-01-31T08:11:00.004-07:00

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.

Pretty little pink dress

2009-01-22T14:46:00.002-07:00

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.

New Valentine Designs

2009-01-14T11:05:00.005-07:00

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.

Save Handmade Children Items

2009-01-07T13:51:00.001-07:00

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.CPSC E-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 Group Twitter Search http://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 Group Etsy 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/

New designs coming

2008-12-28T09:40:00.010-07:00

This outfit was another customer inspired one. The fabric is adorable. While making the dress I thought it would be cute to have red pantaloons with white dots just like a strawberry so I made them up also.

Next I made up a couple of flannel nightgowns for those chilly nights. They are also in strawberry shortcake fabric. Guess you could say that I love strawberry shortcake.

The last item that I made up was for one of my grandsons for Christmas. He loves Spongebob so I decided to make him one of my bowling shirts out of Spongebob fabric.

I hope you enjoy these new designs and as always you can see my entire line of custom made kids clothes by visiting my website

A Beautiful Story

2008-11-25T13:50:00.003-07:00

I receive alot of emails as I'm sure we all do that we delete before we even read them but this one caught my attention and I'm so glad I took the time to read it. It will bring tears to your eyes but it is well worth the time to read especially at this time of year.

Two ChoicesWhat would you do?....you make the choice. Don't look for a punch line, there isn't one. Read it anyway. My question is: Would you have made the same choice?At a fundraising dinner for a school that serves children with learning disabilities, the father of one of the students delivered a speech that would never be forgotten by all who attended. After extolling the school and itsdedicated staff, he offered a question:'When not interfered with by outside influences, everything nature does, is done with perfection.Yet my son, Shay, cannot learn things as other children do. He cannot understand things as other children do.Where is the natural order of things in my son?'The audience was stilled by the query.The father continued. 'I believe that when a child like Shay, who was mentally and physically disabled comes into the world, an opportunity to realize true human nature presents itself, and it comes in the way other people treat that child.'Then he told the following story:Shay and I had walked past a park where some boys Shay knew were playing baseball. Shay asked, 'Do you think they'll let me play?' I knew that most of the boys would not want someone like Shay on their team, but as a father I also understood that if my son were allowed to play, it would give him a much-needed sense of belonging and some confidence to be accepted by others in spite of his handicaps.I approached one of the boys on the field and asked (not expecting much) if Shay could play. The boy looked around for guidance and said, 'We're losing by six runs and the game is in the eighth inning. I guess he can be on our team and we'll try to put him in to bat in the ninth inning.'Shay struggled over to the team's bench and, with a broad smile, put on a team shirt. I watched with a small tear in my eye and warmth in my heart. The boys saw my joy at my son being accepted.In the bottom of the eighth inning, Shay's team scored a few runs but was still behind by three.In the top of the ninth inning, Shay put on a glove and played in the right field. Even though no hits came his way, he was obviously ecstatic just to be in the game and on the field, grinning from ear to ear as I waved to him from the stands.In the bottom of the ninth inning, Shay's team scored again.Now, with two outs and the bases loaded, the potential winning run was on base and Shay was scheduled to be next at bat.At this juncture, do they let Shay bat and give away their chance to win the game?Surprisingly, Shay was given the bat. Everyone knew that a hit was all but impossible because Shay didn't even know how to hold the bat properly, much less connect with the ball.However, as Shay stepped up to theplate, the pitcher, recognizing that the other team was putting winning aside for this moment in Shay's life, moved in a few steps to lob the ball in softly so Shay could at least make contact.The first pitch came and Shay swung clumsily and missed.The pitcher again took a few steps forward to toss the ball softly towards Shay.As the pitch came in, Shay swung at the ball and hit a slow ground ball right back to the pitcher.The game would now be over.The pitcher picked up the soft grounder and could have easily thrown the ball to the first baseman.Shay would have been out and that would have been the end of the game.Instead, the pitcher threw the ball right over the first baseman's head, out of reach of all team mates.Everyone from the stands and both teams started yelling, 'Shay, run to first!Run to first!'Never in his life had Shay ever run that far, but he made it to first base.He scampered down the baseline, wide-eyed and startled.Everyone yelled, 'Run to second, run to second!'Catching his breath, Shay awkwardly ran towards second, gleaming and struggling to make it to the base.By the time Shay rounded towards second base, the right fielder had the ball, the smallest guy on their team who now had his first chance to be the hero for his team.He could have thrown the ball to the second-baseman for the tag, but he understood the pitcher's intentions so he, too, intentionally threw the ball high and far over the third-baseman's head.Shay ran toward third base deliriously as the runners ahead of him circled the bases toward home.All were screaming, 'Shay, Shay, Shay, all the Way Shay'Shay reached third base because the opposing shortstop ran to help him by turning him in the direction of third base, and shouted, 'Run to third!Shay, run to third!'As Shay rounded third, the boys from both teams, and the spectators, were on their feet screaming, 'Shay, run home! Run home!'Shay ran to home, stepped on the plate, and was cheered as the hero who hit the grand slam and won the game for his team'That day', said the father softly with tears now rolling down his face, 'the boys from both teams helped bring a piece of true love and humanity into this world'.Shay didn't make it to another summer. He died that winter, having never forgotten being the hero and making me so happy, and coming home and seeing his Mother tearfully embrace her little hero of the day!

Introducing Julia Lynn Betts

2008-11-20T20:08:00.005-07:00

Today at 3:13 pm Julia Lynn Betts entered the world. She weighed 7 lbs 6 oz, 20 1/2" long, and lots of hair. She is a cutie. I couldn't believe how calm and quiet she was. We are all happy to see her. Mom, Dad and everyone else is doing great as well.

Calico Meringues Christmas Cookies

2008-11-17T08:16:00.004-07:00

I have been working on submitting a cookie recipe to a cookbook that will advertise my custom made kids clothes business so I made up a batch of cookies last night so I could take pictures. These cookies are my favorite Christmas cookie and now that most of my kids are grown they are the cookies that are most asked for. I thought I would share the recipe here as well.

4 egg white

1/4 tsp cream of tartar

1 cup of granulated sugar

1 1/2 cusp M&M candies

Beat egg whites with cream of tartar until foamy in a small deep bowl. Grandually beat in sugar to make a stiff meringue. Fold in candies.

Grease and flour cookie sheet. Use spoon to drop meringue mixture to cookie sheet. Garnish each with one candy.

Bake in 250 degree oven for 25-30 mins or until firm to touch but still white. Cool on cookie sheet on wire rack. Store in sealed container.

Makes about 3 doz cookies depending on size.

New customer inspired dress

2008-11-16T15:37:00.004-07:00

One of the neatest things about making custom made kids clothes is the requests that I get from time to time from customers. About a month ago I got a request from a lady that wanted a denim type dress for her grandaughter for a family portrait that was going to be taken at Thanksgiving time. Everyone is going to be dressed in denim so we decided on a chambray jumper/pinafore dress with the classic petticoat dress underneath. I don' t have the photo of the child yet because the pictures haven't been taken but here is a picture of the dress.

I think this jumper/pinafore dress has got to be my most popular dress that I have made so far. You can do so much with it. In the summer months you can wear it alone with the matching bloomers and than in the cooler months you can wear it over a blouse or the petticoat dress and for added warmth you can add pantaloons. This outfit is so versatile and since it's custom made you can make it any type of fabrics that you would want.

A New Baby Girl Soon!!!

2008-11-02T09:29:00.003-07:00

We found out the other day that Kim and Dave will be having their new little daughter on the 20th of November. They are pre planning it since Dave works at the mine in Bagdad and they don't want her to go into labor and not have a way to the hospital. They just bought a house in Buckeye and Dave is commuting on weekends. She will be born at Banner Gateway and her name will be Julie, or at least that was the last I heard. We are axiously awaiting the arrival but when I think about it eternally there must be family members on the other side that will miss her terribly just as we miss those that leave this earth and return to their Heavenly Home.

As a side note if any of your families have blogs send me a link so we can all catch up on each other. I have discovered it is a great way to stay in touch without having to send out lots of emails.

New Dress and Pinafore

2008-10-24T06:50:00.009-07:00

I have posted a new dress and a pinafore on my site the other day and I have a customer to thank for this. I had a customer email me and ask if I made the old fashioned pinafores with a apron, bib and ruffle. I was excited to say yes and began making it for her. This was her comment when she received the dress.

"..I am at a loss for words.......the dress is just beautiful. I can't explain how I felt and it may sould silly but I was overcome with emotion upon opening the package. Your work is wonderful to say the least. I've been showing all my friends (all who seem to have just boys) and they are all now praying to have grandaughters one to dress.

Thank you again, I'm so glad I stumbled upon your sight two months ago."

It's comments like this that make my day and give me the little extra something to keep doing what I'm doing. You can find the dress and pinafore along with my other custom made outfits at
my website.

Oct 19, 2008-Baby Scare

2008-10-19T07:29:00.004-07:00

Yesterday evening we had a little bit of a scare from my daughter in law. She called me and asked if I could watch the grandkids while she went to the hospital. Apparently she hadn't felt any movement and her blood pressure was up. We met her at the hospital and took the kids to our house and fortunately everything turned out ok. The drs. said that she needed to rest more. Anyone who has toddlers should get a great laugh out of that statement. Her husband is away during the week working, they just moved into their new house and she has 2 active kids..and she is supposed to rest more.... you gotta love dr's recommendations. We were so glad to know that everything turned out good.

"What the mind conceives, and the heart believes, the spirt will achieve"

October 2 2008 It's October already

2008-10-02T08:05:00.007-07:00

Looking at the calendar it's hard to believe that it is already October and we are in the final quarter of another year. It's hard to know what season you are in living in Mesa Arizona because even though it is October and fall we are still in the 100's.
I got to visit with my daughter yesterday before she heads off to Oklahoma with her husband. Her husband is in the Air Force and will be doing his flight training in Oklahoma. It was hard to see her go but like all mom's we have to let them go so that they can live their own lives. On the other end of that I have a son and his family moving back to this area so while one is leaving another is returning. It will be great being able to see them more often.
I finally posted my new designs on my website but I'm not finished yet because I have other outfits that are in the process of being completed but I needed to get some new things up. It's funny how when I first started this business I wanted to specialize in dresses with pinafores but I soon found out that those weren't in demand so I stopped making them. Just recently I have had several requests for dresses with pinafores so I am in the process of making one right now and will be focusing this coming year on more dresses with pinafores along with my other more trendy outfits. I'm also hoping to find someone out there that would be interested in working with me on this business so it can grow.
As always I look forward to seeing you at Pinafores and Knickerbockers

More Sneak Peaks Sept 25, 2008

2008-09-25T16:42:00.001-07:00

I just finished up a couple of more outfits that I'm posting on my blog before I put up on my website. These first two are the first in my boy/girl matching collection. The girls jumper and boys vest are made from frosty the snowman fabric.

I love this little jumper with the panda bear pocket applique. Reminds me of a little girl school dress. This would make the perfect school picture outfit. What's especially great about this jumper is that it has ties on the sides so you get a perfect fit.

I have a couple of outfits left to make and than I will posting them on my website.

Sneak Peak Sept.23, 2008

2008-09-23T06:23:00.000-07:00

I have had several requests from customers to let them see what I have been working on lately but I'm not ready to put them on my website just yet so I'm giving you a sneak peak here.

I love this little bloomer outfit that I made for my grandaughter Ally and than decided to add to my collection.

Another outfit that I made for my grandson Ryam's first birthday is this cute adaptation of the traditional bowling shirt. I made the shirt from a really cute dinosaur fabric and than copied one of the dinosaurs and used it as an applique for the back. Really colorful and fun!

I have my husbands niece to thank for this adorable pettiskirt. She asked me to make up a couple and I loved them so much that now they are a part of my collection. These skirts are very fluffy and alot of fun for the little girls to wear. Lots of twirlling power in these pettiskirts. I can't wait to make more.

I also was playing around with making a matching top for the pettiskirt and made this little tanktop with gathered chiffon around the neck. This would be great for the summer months. I'm also in the process of making a long sleeve version for my Christmas pettiskirt. That is still in the works.

So there you have a little glimpse into what I have been working on lately. Hope you like them!

As always you can see the rest of my custom made kids clothing at my website.

Wow where have I been?

2008-09-07T09:03:00.000-07:00

I opened up my blog this morning and realized that it has been forever since I have written last. Guess you could say I have been extremely busy but I have decided to put forth the effort to stay current with this blog.
I am working like crazy to get my holiday outfits finished up so that I can put them on my website. I'm really excited with the new Christmas outfits that I am making. I will be having 3 or 4 fancy dresses along with a couple of simple Christmas jumpers with the cutest appliques on front. I'm also making matching boy outfits for a couple of the fancy dresses. These will be nice pants with matching vests. Due to personal requests I am also starting to make the ever popular pettiskirts. I have already made 2 and working on a bright Christmas one and than I will post them all. It seems that in the past whenever I post an outfit I start getting orders and than I don't have the time to make up new designs so I have decided to wait until I am finished with all or most of my Christmas and fall apparel before posting them on my website.

Jan 30, 2008

2008-01-30T13:55:00.000-07:00

I just added another item to my ebay store and I really think it's cute. I made a corduroy lined jumpsuit with a monkey applique. I used rick rack across the front of the jumpsuit so that the monkey could be hanging from it. I also made a matching shirt to go with it.

I am in the process of closing down my ebay store and opening up a new website. My new website will be called pinaforesandknickerbockers.com I'm really excite about this opportunity to help my business grow.