Valentine's Day

I've noticed that a lot of people are getting ready for Valentine's Day. All the stores have decorations up, chocolates in heart-shaped boxes everywhere & florists advertizing roses (wouldn't mind some of those myself!). We don't do Valentine's Day here, Brad's birthday is a few days later so we usually go out for supper between there somewhere.

When I gave birth to our first son I received a dozen red roses. With the second son - I received a ride home. (LOL) One year I did get 3 red roses for mother's day. But apparently buying flowers is a waste of good money - because they just die. Maybe this year I'll have to leave hints of other things I might like for Valentine's Day. Hmmmm - that just might work!! (not)

Let's see what would I like? I really don't know! so I went on Etsy Forums and asked for ideas for Valentine gifts. OH MY!!!! There are just way to many choices out there - craziness.

On the forum thread I said I would pick my favorite 12 items, from the ones suggested, and post their pics here with links to the shop. Well I first narrowed it down to 27 - that's a start! But how to get it down to 12? HELP!!! So I though a variety might be nice, that narrowed it down a little more. I just couldn't get it down to 12! It's impossible! So here are pics of my favorite 15 items, each pic links to the shop you can find the item in. Please go check them out!!














There are an amazing amount of Etsy shops with wonderful ideas for Valentine's Day gifts, but there is no way I could list them all here. Hope everyone has a wonderful Valentine's Day (I know - I'm early).

FOR SALE/TRADE!!

In hopes of selling my last year winter items I've put them all on sale. Everything with a snowman or that is Christmas related is 20% off. These items really need to go so I can make new items for the next winter season. Here are the pics and each pic links to the item on my Etsy shop.











These next 3 items have free shipping.







I am also open to trading! Probably not jewelry (only wear earrings) unless you have cool pendants, no kids or husbands either. (LOL) I do like soaps, lotions, candles, knitted/crocheted items, bags, anything snowman related that I can't make myself. You can email me (link on the right) or leave a convo via Etsy.

What Color is Your Rainbow?

Here's a fun Quiz:

The normally accepted rainbow colors are red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet.But everyone sees things a little differently, so there is quiz to show how your personality might tint things in an interesting way. The answer is a rainbow that looks different and unique (unless you're color blind, in which case you might not find this quiz very satisfying).

http://spacefem.com/quizzes/rainbow/

This is My Rainbow!

Your rainbow is shaded yellow.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What is says about you: You are a joyful person. You appreciate optimism. You're good at getting people to like you.

Find the colors of your rainbow at spacefem.com.

Purses, Bags & Sew Much More

Susan is from Florida and has a wonderful shop Purses, Bags and Sew Much More. She has the most wonderful bags, as you will see!! Susan also has just started a Blog .

#1. How did you decide on your shop name?

Although purses are my most requested items, I also wanted to encompass the other articles I sew. The name needed to include purses but not be limited to purses only. Hmmm. Many names were considered and many were discarded. My precious son-in-law actually came up with the name, Purses, Bags & Sew Much More.

#2. When did you start crafting?

My mother always sewed and I was always fascinated by it. I got a toy sewing machine when I was about six. That was around the time disposable diapers were coming into use. I remember raiding my mother’s kitchen for plastic wrap and paper towels to create disposable diapers for my baby dolls. My mother taught me how to use her machine and clothes for Barbie soon followed. When I was thirteen, I checked the classifieds for garage sales, found a sewing machine and rode my bike over to test it out. My Dad drove me back later that day to transact the deal and get the machine home. I loved having my own machine in my bedroom. Over the years, I’ve experimented with all types of crafts and needlework—some attempts more successful and enjoyable than others. One thing has remained central: Fabric speaks to me. I love the way it feels, smells, drapes, looks and I love the possibilities it brings.

#3. What or who inspires you?

I am drawn to fabrics in their many incarnations. Quilts, pillows, apparel, accessories, stuffed toys—you name it. Most recently, I have begun to be tempted with fibers, too. When I see a fresh piece of fabric, I start envisioning what it will look like in the finished project. While not everything turns out exactly as I planned, I’m getting better at turning visions into the creations I’d hoped for. Practicality and function also inspire me. If I need a new pillowcase for the travel pillows, I think of which fabric I’d like to use rather than which store I’ll visit to purchase one.

#4. Do you have a day job?

My day job is my three children and their Dad. As any Mom knows, that can mean anything at anytime and you’re pretty much on call 24/7. I have two teenagers--one son, one daughter--and an adult daughter.

#5. What is the item in your shop you enjoyed making the most and why?

Probably the Butterfly Bag. http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=12948209. At the time it was a new bag design and the butterflies and colors made me think of my oldest daughter. I also knew she’d like the function of a large bag. While I was creating it, I thought about how much she would like it. I’ve made several others in that same style and I think it may be my new favorite. Well, my favorite for now, anyway.

Audrey's Accolades:

Ever since having to carry a diaper bag when the boys were little, I've hated purses. But Susan has changed my mind!! I'm not a flashy person but these purses are so full of color & amazing fabrics that you have to love them. The butterfly purse that Susan mentions is a must see! It's call a "slouch" bag - wasn't sure why - so I asked.

Slouch bag: Bags made of flexible, soft material which are typically large, with long shoulder straps. They tend to slump, or "slouch" when set down.

Well - I love butterflies and these are so colorful that I'm going to make it my favorite!

If you prefer a BIG bag, this one is for you! This oversized, soft bag is roomy, very functional and stylish. This print of gorgeous, colorful butterflies on lush black decorator-weight fabric is perfect for this style. The butterflies are turquoise, fuchsia, green, orange and yellow. It is lined in solid turquoise cotton and has a large pocket. It closes with a magnetic snap. Measures (not including handles) 15” across x 11” high at band. Handles are 22” long with a 10” drop. All measurements approximate.

Monkee Baby Creations

Monkee Baby Creations is an Etsy shop owned by Beth, who lives in Diboll Texas. Beth loves vintage and loves unique handmade items. She love to put a vintage spin on newly made creations. She also has a blog - Luv My Monkeys.

1. How did you decide on your shop name?

It didn't take long, as I have a daughter who ADORES monkeys! Not to mention that since I have four kids, it kinda had a double meaning lol, and they climb like monkeys and I love em!

#2. When did you start crafting?

OH MY. HMMM. Probably in my teens on an off and on basis. Never for money at that point. Just because I liked it! I cant tell you how many times I got into trouble for getting into my moms paints....

#3. What or who inspires you?

Those who make something outa nothing. Whether it be crafting, or even life. It takes a lot for a person that has a pretty lousy life to turn it around and become a success.

#4. Do you have a day job?

Yes~! I work at the hospital paging the Dr.'s and calling stat emergency codes. I am currently going to school for nursing so that I can become an RN. Once I do that, I plan to work the weekend shift, two 16 hour days, and be off for 5 days so I can Etsy.

#5. What is the item in your shop you enjoyed making the most and why?

Well I don't know if I could really pick one. I love the sock monkey earrings, but I also love the scrapbooking.

Audrey's Accolades:

WOW!! What a selection of items in Beth's shop! Let's see - there are earrings, beads, pouches, bottlecap magnets (can never have too many magnets on the fridge!) findings, and a lot more. Here is my favorite - though I must say it was a tough choice.

Pay those bills in style! Beth took a plastic bill or coupon organizer measures about11" wide, and embellished it with old book print, twilight sayings and pics and an old button. Very cute and different!

Winter/Snow

It's winter in Manitoba, Canada. Over the last few days on blogs and in Etsy forums I've heard/read people complaining about the cold. HMMMM. Yesterday was the clincher for me. I was an a blog and the writer was complaining about the +53F temps they were having where she lived. She was cold! EXCUSE ME? Okay after more reading I found out that she lives in Florida. 53F - give me a break! Lasst week school was cancelled 3 days because of the -49F temps was were having (includes wind chill) We had highs of -22F without the wind!!! I was quite happy that school was cancelled, at least I didn't have to go out and start the school bus.

I was also emailing back & forth with another woman in Virginia who's son was hoping for enough snow to make a snowman. We have the snow & I would love to send them some, but because of the cold temps we're having the snow doesn't stick together to make a snowman.

So I thought will all the complaints & talk about the winter - I would post some pics of our yard and what it looks like now. You will notice in some of the pictures that my hubby is blowing snow so we can get off the yard. The joys of living in flat country with snow and wind.

Marin Knits

This is a special feature I'm doing for a friend. Marin is from Kirkland WA. Her sister, Lara, is going on a mission trip to Mozamique and Marin is helping her raise money. With every purchase from her shop - Marin's Knits - she is donating 15% towards her sister's trip. This promotion will run through to March 10th.

#1. How did you decide on your shop name?
My shop name is my name, and what I do best, knit!


#2. When did you start crafting?
I taught myself to knit when I was 19, and you will never see me without yarn, needles or a hook. I've always loved creating things, but didn't have a focused energy until after freshman year of college. I started baking like crazy. Then, a few months later, I picked up some knitting needles and taught myself how to knit. Since then, it's a rare day you find me not working on a project.


#3. What or who inspires you?
I'm inspired by color. I love seeing something beautiful, like a flower, and I immediately think of how gorgeous it would be to have yarn like that.


#4. Do you have a day job?
For my day job I'm an accounting product support rep.


#5. What is the item in your shop you enjoyed making the most and why?
I really enjoy everything. My favorite item right now are the kendall and lindsay scarves. They are super chunky and gorgeous colors.


Audrey's Accolades:
Wow - can Marin knit! The scarves are wonderful as are the hats. I'm not a hat person but these are tempting - I love the brim! The scarves looks so warm and the neckwarmers look cozy. One of the neckwarmers is named "Audrey" so it must be wonderful!! (LOL) Please check out Marin's amazing shop and if possible make a purchase and help send her sister to Mozambique.
Okay - my favorite item in Marin's shop was hard to pick. But I've developed a "thing" for bags so I'm going to pick the Humbug Bag. In fact - you won't find this one in her shop - because I bought it!!



Quilted blue and green fabric sewn into this handy Humbug Bag. This bag has a fold in the bottom
to lay flat, but, unzip the bag and fill
with goodies, and it expands to a pyramid shape. The bag has a handy hook at the top to clip to
you belt, purse, or anywhere else!

Gardening!

I just received 2 seed catalogues in the mail!! That must mean that spring is almost here, right? After all the days are getting longer, which means the sun is getting higher in the sky, so it's getting warmer? Can't tell in Manitoba! Today's high is -5C or 23F. But getting my seed catalogues makes me think of spring and planting. That means warm sunshine, green grass, blooming flowers, birds singing, mosquitos (we won't go there), sitting on the deck relaxing in the evening with a cold drink. I feel warmer already!

But first I have to decide what to plant. Hmmmm. We'll start with the usual:

*Cucumbers - I make my own pickles and relish

*Carrots - the garden grows them like weeks and we usually "grow a row" for the food bank.

*Squash - Brad's favorite

*Corn - corn on the cob - yummy. Found out how to do it in the microwave

*Pumpkins - for pie, muffins, cake etc.

*Peppers - bell and spicey

*Onions - Sweet spanish

*Tomatos - the bigger the better.

Might have to try to grow asparagus this year. I bought some at the grocery store last summer and put it in a stirfry I did on the BBQ - worked and tasted great. If anyone grows asparagus please leave a comment for me with any tips. I know nothing about growing asparagus.

We don't grow beans of any kind now. One year we grew dry beans - still have piles left. And the garden grows green & yellow beans like weeds. We don't eat them. We ended up taking them to the food bank too, but you have to pick them so often - lots of work. We've grown melons, lettuce, birdhouse gourds, garlic, watermelon, broccoli, cauliflower, and brussels sprouts over the years. Sometime with good luck - sometimes not.

The only flowers I grow are in boxes on our new deck. Last summer I tried to start flowers myself with mixed results. Ended up getting a few at the greenhouse to fill holes, then wouldn't remember to water regularily. Will have to try harder this year.

What I really need is something to kill all the weeds in the garden!! I really do not enjoy weeding, just ask Brad! My garden is big enough that we can leave 7 ft. between the rows so we can use the 6 ft tiller with the tractor. I do have a small tiller too, that we use between the rows that are closer together. We plant the 2 corn rows quite close together so they hold each other up if we get strong winds (learned this tip from SIL's fatheer). Last summer I tried to get out to the garden early before the heat (really don't like heat either). So if anyone has tips for getting rid of weeds withough the need of a hoe - let me know!!

So I went looking for gardening blogs etc. Didn't really find anything - if you know of some let me know and I will add them to the post. The pictures I "borrowed" from the company where I buy my seeds. Vesey's.

UPDATE: UX Critter a shop on Etsy, just gave me this link. Here we can find links to gardening blogs!! Off to check them out!

Dig In Dirt: a garden blogs directory!!