Babycakes Boutique

We have moved!

2010-03-07T10:45:00.002-05:00

Please visit our new blog HERE

New Yummy Fabrics

2010-02-08T12:23:00.010-05:00

I am in cloud nine right now. I got some new awesome fabrics and I can't wait to share them with you. These are just SOME of them!! I have to think of names. Hmmm.

These are good enough to eat! I already made a bag out of the lime print.

Chocolate goodness. Can't go wrong with these ones. I especially like the top one. I wonder what will I name these sweeties. I have actually made a bag out of the paisley print.

Bright retro florals--they pop up everywhere. The top one I have decided to call it deja vu, the bottom one cherry blossoms.

So girly and preppy. Bubblegum pink, peach and lime combo. Top is pink lotus then the paisley is called sugar baby (yeah) but haven't thought of names for the two bottom ones.

Love this color combo--brown and spa blue. I am just lovin' all of them.

Took me forever to do this post. I had trouble centering the images then I realized just get out of the edit html page and just do all the posting via the compose page which has all the icons at the top to do all the editing just like my website. Duh!

Have an awesome Monday everyone.

To zip or not to zip

2010-01-22T10:47:00.004-05:00

It's just so lovely today--high 70s. I am 10 minutes away from the beach --maybe one of these days I can swing by there! Not today though I have some sewing to do.
Ever since I started making purses I had a lot of requests for zipper closure but I couldn't quite figure out how to do it. I mean a recessed zipper closure where the zipper is a couple of inches down not at the very top like my wristlets. The reason I like the recessed is it retains the purse's shape and it doesn't look funny at the top.
A year or so I go I had a request from a friend for a zippered closure tote. It took me forever to figure it out but unfortunately I didn't make any notes! Fast forward a few months back I was back to square one. There are a lot of tutorials online but it is not what I wanted. To cut the story short I finally figured out and confident enough to add it as a closure option on the site. Yeah baby!Here are some custom ones that I made:

For my niece Kristen who loves animals and hearts.

For my sister-law's mom. I was surprised she likes zebra prints. I do.

These are custom orders.

The stripes one is for my mom and the other one is for me.

Close up view.

Have a nice weekend everyone.

The Winner Is.....

2010-01-17T12:53:00.001-05:00

Good morning. I hope you are enjoying the long weekend. We have a winner-----HEIDI you won!. Email me your address.

Got my Groove Back

2010-01-15T11:02:00.003-05:00

Don't forget you have one more day for the giveaway.

I haven't really added a lot of new bags last year but I am on a roll this month. I especially neglected Cheinna which is very popular since it is very versatile. An all around bag that can be used as a diaper bag, shopper tote, knitting bag and a school bag.

These are the ones that I have been working on. I have a couple more in the works.

Here's another view.

Also the Mikha bag needs some more added. This is actually oen of my favorites. I like these size for an evening out.

I finally finished two and will add some more.

Ignore the generic ironing board cover. That's my next project!

Till next time. Have a great weekend.

New Year Giveaway!!

2010-01-07T10:24:00.001-05:00

As I am sitting here in my little cubbyhole my toes are just freezing. In Florida 60 degrees is cold but today is an unheard record low of 28 degrees! My sewing room was actually a part of our attic that is now connected to my bedroom on the second floor (we had to raise the floor a foot so it is level with my room). I still yet to show the whole room as only a portion of it is still not decorated/organized to my liking.Even with centralized heating/cooling system the temperature is extreme. In the hot summer months I mostly sew during the night and during the day when it is cold.

Okay for the fun part since I have sadly neglected my blog I am giving away one Yvette Gadget Pouch in Ebony and Ivory. Just go to my site and tell me your favorite. I will run this until Jan. 16 Saturday and I will announce the lucky winner here.

Happy New Year!!

2010-01-05T10:54:00.000-05:00

Yay!!!I haven't posted since July!! Anyway I just wanted to say hello. It's been a busy holiday season--thank you so much everybody. I thought with the economy and all it wouldn't be that busy but it was!!! Let me just get my groove back and I will post a long overdue giveaway. Have a wonderful day.

Wristlets and more wristlets

2009-07-01T09:57:00.009-05:00

It always gives me a kick when I see finished orders like these. The Deanna wristlet is very popular as bridesmaids' gifts.

Cute purse print for the lining.

The ever popular Curlz font in lime thread. Fabric is Merry Go Round.

Ta da! Six pretty wristlets all in a row.

Pink Poppies patchwork wristlet.

Lined with one of my favorite fabrics, Fantasia Sherbert.

Aren't they lovely?

Yes I am a TWI MOM!!!

2009-06-17T15:57:00.015-05:00

Okay now you know--I am a TWI MOM! Everybody on planet earth probably knows about the Twilight Saga books by Stephanie Meyer. Here's my story:

Last year my 13-year old daughter was reading Twilight and she could hardly put the book down and every spare time she had was spent reading that book. Then she got excited because the book was going to be a movie. When it was out last November her whole class made such a fuss and went one night to see the movie. Fast forward February I rented the movie from blockbuster and wanted to know what the hype was all about. Then a mom fell in love with the movie! That same day I bought my own blu ray. My daughter persuaded me to read the book (okay-- just this first book as I don't have time to read) and loved it even more. To make the story short I bought all the books and read them in a week. I was in my own little world reading till the wee hours of the morning with my newly bought book light. I don't think I even watched television that week. I probably have reread them 2-3 times since then (I just finished rereading Breaking Dawn last weekend). Ask me anything from the book--you won't be disappointed. Hey give me a break sometimes you miss some important stuff. I have always been like these even as a young kid. I would watch a movie or read a book over and over again--you know the feeling. I didn't even know who Robert Pattinson was but I remember Kristen Stewart as the cute girl from Panic Room.

Need I say more?

Of course every Twi Mom should have these too.

We have enjoyed reading the books so much together.

There's a lot of twilight blogs out there but these are my faves--Our Twilight Chronicles. She has a lot of Twi Links that I read and New Moon the movie.

Since I can't seem to get enough I read this fan's version of a 5th book, Edge of Night. She's awesome and writing her style is so much like Stephanie Meyers. I haven't had a chance to email her and thank her for doing this.

Okay I feel so much better getting out of the closet. Stay tuned as I will be giving away some Twilight inspired creations. I can't wait to see New Monn!

Design Your Own Monogrammed Cosmetic Bag Giveaway!!!

2009-06-09T09:02:00.014-05:00

Hi everyone. I don't even know what to say--I haven't realized how long it's been since I posted anything. I think this is the longest. I have finished a lot of redecorating though and will share pics with you soon. Anyway, since I have sadly neglected my blog and people really visit it as statistics show (thank you), I am going to redeem myself and do a design your own monogrammed cosmetic bag giveaway or if there's already one made that takes your fancy it's okay too and of course I will monogram it. Check out the cosmetic bags here and the monogram fonts here. You pick any fabric you see on the site or my fabric collection here.

Just go visit my site and tell me which of my designs is your favorite and why. I will run this for a week and I will announce the winner on the 16th in the morning.

Last December I was trying to monogram some gifts and my fairly new embroidery machine kept giving me an error message. It kept telling me to rethread and kept beeping. I did everything--change the bobbin, the needle, another thread to no avail. The beeping noise went on and on. Since I won't get the free one year service till June (which is about now) my hands were tied. I didn't use the embroidery feature until about a few weeks ago out of frustration and necessity and voila! It worked. I don't know what happened but I have been monogramming some stuff for my daughter and I nonstop. I was told it might that particular brand of thread or it was just one of those things! In retrospect I think it might have been the bobbin thread. I was using a not so good brand. So I switched and it might cost more money but worth it. There's so much to learn with embroidery--I guess I will learn as I go along and I have a really helpful forum that I can run to.

I will be back --promise!!

The Runaway Bunny

2009-01-20T12:32:00.006-05:00

I am just loving this weather! Last week was cold--35 degrees! Our bunnies seem to sense the change in weather especially Pumpkin. She's very frisky and wriggled out of my grasp last week as I was taking her out. Since Miko and Bella were already in the cage outside I can't leave it open so she can just sneak in. She just stood there close to the water her fur blown by the howling wind.

She was so close to the water's edge I was holding my breath just in case she slipped!

Just taking her time sniffing the air.

She must have been just sitting there for a good 15 minutes. I was hoping she would come closer as I have opened the back door hoping she would go in.

Something might have spooked her and she ran like crazy closer to the outside cage and inched her way to the door.

I love this shot--she looks like a lion (she's a lion head)! Thankfully this is her routine everyday right after I take her out from the outside pen and I just let her go in and jump in the cage inside.

HOLIDAY GIVEAWAY!!!

2008-12-15T09:36:00.015-05:00

Hello everybody. Just a quick hello as I am swamped. I am almost done with my Christmas tree (yes I am very very late this year!) and my Christmas shopping is finally over.

If you need a last minute gift the deadline for orders for guaranteed Christmas delivery is on Wednesday the 18th. I am also offering a 10%discount on all purchases just use code babycakes upon checkout.

Okay the fun part. I am giving away this cell phone/gadget pouch called petits fours. Just check out my site here and tell me which one is your favorite or any comment on my stuff (yes just humor me!). I will announce the winner on December 19.

Please claim your prize within 5 days or another drawing will be done. Good luck!

New Hobby?

2008-11-25T10:03:00.010-05:00

Well, not really. Sometimes you never know what will trigger your interest on something. I was cleaning my daughter's room a month or so ago when I stepped on one of her trinkets. It was a key chain with a pink butterfly and some plastic beads strung together. I thought it was really cute and would make a nice zipper pull. That was my main idea--start adding zipper pulls to my silk wristlets (I still have to add some to my site!!). I wanted some glass beads and maybe some Swarovski crystlals. Before I knew it I had accumulated so much stuff I decided I'll make a couple of earrings and charm bracelets for my daughter and I. The thing with beads is you just can't buy a couple of stones but you have to get a whole strand. To cut the story short one thing led to another and I decided I had spent so much on supplies I might as well start selling them.

Photographing them wasn't that easy. The purses are lot easier. I just go in the back and shoot. So I had to buy a small photo tent and some photography lights (an added expense, mind you). Removing the backgrounds was a pain ( I did a couple) but I have been looking online and I have seen that most have backgrounds that had been artistically blurred. I think it is really pretty and requires less time for me to prepare the pics for my site.

Small acorn earrings with unakite stones.

Love these frosted lucite flowers I call "wedding bells".

Amethyst Czech fire polished glass beads. I love the blurred purple background--I didn't even know my camera can do it.

Pink and purple glass beads with Picasso luster which I have named "romance"

Striking cobalt blue glass beads.

Antiqued silver tulips that tinkle when you wear them!

Blue glass beads with azuro coating (darker than Aurora borealis finish).

Sweet sixteen pink lucite flowers. Very sweet.

Check out my jewelry collection here. Hopefully I can add more within the next few days.

Okay I am done with my show and tell. Until next time. I have a giveaway coming up to stay tuned!

Finally--an embroidery machine!

2008-10-02T09:30:00.013-05:00

Hello there. It's been awhile! Well I have finally bought an embroidery machine a, Janome 9500 ( about 2 months ago). I have always wanted one way before I started making purses. Since the closest Janome dealer is 2 hours away I decided to buy it online. I paid it off right away and I am so happy with that. I have been very good with not using my credit cards. My new motto--if you can't afford it, don't buy it!

I was sitting by the kitchen waiting for the UPS guy. I was so excited.

I finally found time to make a purse for me for a change. I haven't had a chance to put this on the site yet.

A gift for one of daughter's friend.

My first online order.

Another gift for a friend of my daughter's.

This one is for one of my retailers.

Another purse for me

These are the fonts available. It took me forever to do this. I have to test drive all of them make sure they stitch out really well. Then I took pictures of most of them and took the backgrounds off. I am quite proud of myself it does look really nice, don't you think so? I am slowly updating my site for monogramming but it such a hassle.

It is so much fun and when I can find time I will embroider some pillows for my daughter and I. Holiday shopping has started on the site so I have to be prepared. I am somewhat nervous and excited at the same time. Have a fabulous day!

Fay--The Aftermath

2008-08-28T09:45:00.009-05:00

Well--one down! You might have heard about the widespread flood all over Florida. This is the worst that I remember. Not even past hurricanes caused such massive flooding. The storm actually came late since it was predicted to arrive at midnight but actually the relentless rain actually started at about 6:00 am.

This was about lunchtime. That bird is probably Sam. He's a permanent fixture in our backyard. He was so cool-- oblivious to the pouring rain and 60 mph wind! At this point I was getting worried as the water level kept getting higher.

By mid afternoon the strip of grass had all been covered with water and the lake and the small creek had merged. I was thinking we were certainly going to get flooded. We have a strip of grass before the backroom (where our three bunnies stay)but it didn't take long to get the water this high.

The day after. What a mess! At least we didn't get flooded.

Outside around the neighborhood. I was thinking well it wasn't so bad the water will receed soon. Well I spoke too soon because when I tried to get out to the main street the water was knee high!

Hurricane 2008

2008-08-18T16:29:00.007-05:00

Here we go again! Living in gorgeous Florida is synonymous with tropical storms and hurricanes. We are not in the direct path of Fay but we will experience wind gusts of about 50 mph arriving midnight. I went through Andrew in 1992 and two back to back hurricanes (within 20 days each other) Frances and Jeanne in 2004. I am proud to say I am as prepared as I can ever be. Unfortunately for some they do it when a storm is approaching. I should have known better than to go to the grocery last night. On top of back to school shopping people were doing hurricane shopping and I was in line for half an hour at the check out counter!

I have been doing laundry because power failure is expected. In between loads I was trying to finish orders so hopefully they can go out on Wednesday.

My daughter is supposed to start school tomorrow. She had everything ready--uniforms pressed, new backpack filled with tons of pens and fancy binders--oh well she got an extra day of summer vacation!

Website Disaster!!!

2008-07-29T22:02:00.003-05:00

It is 11:00 Pm EST and I just made a big mess of my website! I just want to shrivel and die. I had a new template installed and everything was fine and dandy a few minutes ago and I was trying to put in the Paypal logo and my biggest nightmare just came true. When I do some changes or additions (I haven't for a long time) I usually leave two similar windows open. If I made a mistake I would just go to the first window, update it and it would revert back to the original. This time though my brain wasn't functioning properly and I got confused. I have been working with my web designer most of the day and I guess it got to a point that my brain got fried. I just emailed her and hopefully will get back with me soon. I feel so embarrassed as she had been so helpful and patient with me today. I surely will have a restless night!

Tadpoles!! Day 1

2008-07-18T10:18:00.011-05:00

I was pulling out weeds yesterday morning when I noticed some black wiggly things in our water fountain. Upon closer inspection I realized they were tadpoles and lots of them! I didn't notice any eggs in there (they look like tapioca suspended in sticky white froth). My daughter freaked out though--can you imagine how many frogs will there be? It is a treat to me though. We used to have a couple of doves lay eggs in the Spring. They loved one of our orchids pots hanging up front. One time they never came back but the eggs hatched. We had to call animal control so they can remove the poor chicks in there.

Anyway back to the tadpoles. In 4th grade we had a large aquarium where we had to observe how the eggs evolve into tadpoles and then to frogs. It was so much fun watching them hatch, see the tadpoles slowly lose their tails to be replaced by legs. We had so much fun. My question is do I leave them alone or put something to feed them? Any feedback would be wonderful. I will keep you posted.

New Fabrics in the House!

2008-07-11T08:35:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone it's been a long long time! I have been so caught up with a couple of large wholesale orders.Finally I can start using the new fabrics I got a couple of weeks ago.It was hard not to touch them but I had some stuff to finish.

Retro floral prints. I love the two large scale prints on the right.

Bold colors and amazing prints some with chandeliers on it.

Yummy florals and paisley!

My creative juices are just spinning nonstop. From my favorite designer, Amy Butler.

Until next time. Have fun!

We have a winner.....

2008-05-11T22:20:00.002-05:00

I hope you had a wonderful Mother's Day. The winner is----Kaye Stone. Congratulations!

Mother and Daughter Handbag Set Featured in Mag!

2008-05-05T09:19:00.028-05:00

It is finally here! Our Imelda and Reaganne Handbag Set was featured in Woman's World May 12 issue. I was contacted last March about either the Mother and Daughter Sets or the Michelle Fabric Headbands being featured on their magazine. I didn't know it would be on their Mother's Day Issue.

Since I am on Cloud 9 right now and Mother's Day is coming up I am giving away a matching Michelle headbands, a Deanna wristlet,Yvette Phone/gadget keeper , Maddy cosmetic bag or a Beth fabric belt of your choice. Just leave a comment here and I will draw a winner on Sunday, May 11. I will announce the winner here. Please claim your prize within 3 days.

Have a fabulous Mother's Day everyone! Debbie.

Price not Claimed--Another Itsy Bitsy Pouch Winner Announced!

2008-04-21T08:03:00.003-05:00

Well Colleen it's your lucky day, you won an itsy bitsy pouch as our winner hasn't responded within the time allotted. Please claim your price within four days. I can't stay long ladies I just wanted to say hello. Have a productive week.

Itsy Bitsy Pouch Winner

2008-04-15T12:43:00.007-05:00

Sorry about the delay ladies. It is such a beautiful day. We have an unexpected cold front at this time of year. Mid 50s. Yeah! So I went for a walk at about 9:00 and it felt so invigorating. I really have to make time as I am lucky enough to live where walking or biking is very conducive. I know I should do this everyday but sometimes I have to finish some orders before mail pickup. It is so convenient nowadays--just print your postage at home and schedule a pick up. No need to wait and save money and gas! My lady carrier, Carol is so sweet and I love chatting with her once in a while.

The lucky winner is---elliemae! Contact me within 4 days and tell me which one you want. Thank you to all . There will be another giveaway soon. Have a great day.

Meet Yvette--Cell Phone/Gadget Case

2008-04-03T14:10:00.008-05:00

My 12-year old daughter had been asking for a pouch to put in her most precious possessions--camera,cell phone and iPod. Even during my craft shows last year people were asking. After numerous drafts and 5-6 sample pouches it is finally ready (well almost as I still have to put them on the site). I love pockets and this is a great add on as well as a decorative element. It can be hooked to a purse strap or through a belt loop.

One of the sample pouches. It was too small for the other gadgets. This one is sized for a Razr.

It was such a beautiful day I had time to catch up on my reading and took pictures.
Presenting----Yvette, named after my sister-in-laws's sister. I am still preparing the images and hopefully be ready on the site by this weekend.

Our Spring freebie is still on. You have till the 15th to leave a comment before the drawing. Check it out here.

Spring Freebie!! Design your own Itsy Bitsy Pouch

2008-03-25T09:23:00.013-05:00

I might have signed off a few times last week. I thought the start of Spring is this week and I planned to give one cute as a button itsy bitsy pouch. Anyway we have a cold front today, in the low 50s and in South Florida that is COLD. Most often than not when there's a considerable drop in temperature I get the sniffles. I can't complain, it is beautiful outside and it makes me feel happy to be alive-- until Summer when only the brave would go out in the sun and get fried.

Okay ladies leave a comment until April 15th and I will draw one lucky winner to get one Design Your Own itsy bitsy pouch (Rachel).

You can choose from my fabric collection (I will be adding more) or any fabric you see in my website.

I am off to do more sewing. Have a fabulous day.

My New Bed!

2008-03-22T18:29:00.018-05:00

I finally got my bed done. It looks so nice I can't stop staring at it!

After buying my new bed and sheets this rocking chair was sticking out like a sore thumb. It just didn't go with anything so I decided to paint it brown. It is a vintage Ethan Allen that I got from an estate sale a few years ago. Very comfortable and it is where I sit when I find time to read. During the day a lot of natural light comes through and I have a view of a small garden patch directly by the window and further back, the water fountain from the lagoon.

At long last I can show you my new bed. I bought the headboard and bed frame (eliminating the need for a dust ruffle) about a month ago from West Elm. I haven't treated myself lately and I have been sewing like there was no tomorrow. A week after this post I went ahead and bought it. A birthday present for myself, so to speak. I have put it at an angle because the room's configuration (is that the right word?) changed since the old closet was removed and a new walk in closet was put in right across the bed. The Chinese cabinet had to be moved to accommodate the closet door. I made all the pillows except the ones that came with the duvet including the one in the rocking chair. The vintage Oriental glass topped bedside table was from the antique store across the street. The inspiration for the capiz shell strands was from an old West Elm catalog. I decided to use the small window as another decorative element instead of hiding it behind a curtain as I originally planned. I made the silk dupioni curtains too.

I am loving the white and espresso color combo so much that I bought another duvet set.

And the winner is.......

2008-03-12T21:15:00.011-05:00

After all the nail biting from everybody, the winner was announced today. Check it out here. So many talented ladies and all entries are winners in my book. I consoled myself by saying---well I a really need an embroidery machine not a quilting machine and I have all those books (for the runners up) anyway!

Amy Butler Sew Inspiring Contest Entry

2008-03-04T13:12:00.007-05:00

This is my entry to the Amy Butler inspired bag. The winner will be chosen the week of March 10. Grand price is a 2,000.00 sewing machine! I was able to finish it (took be about 1 1/2-2 hours) just in time for the February 29th deadline.

For the little princess who likes all the frills the Riyanna Cutie Pie Handbag is a perfect fit! This is one of my favorite prints--perfect for a flower girl! I used sunburst roses for the main print paired with coordinating stripes. Accented with the sweetest double ruffle in pink dotty beans and scalloped edged Swiss embroidery that echo the main print.

Preppy white ribbon closure.

Twirly girly girl ruffles. The double ruffles remind of the fancy smocked/heirloom dresses I used to make for my darling daughter.

I used pink dotty beans for the lining and blue exotic birds fabric for the pocket. This Cutie Pie Handbag has two pockets for her treasures and a pencil slot.

It's my birthday--it's my birthday!!! Itsy Bitsy Pouch Giveaway

2008-02-28T09:37:00.016-05:00

Actually it WAS my birthday on the 24th but I haven't had a chance to post something here. I just turned -tyfive (I am not telling) but my friends say I look younger. As a young kid I used to be teased about missing some screws up there because I was born close to the 29th ( February being an incomplete month). As usual I'm running into myself these days trying to finish up orders and being a single mom. That said, I am giving away one itsy bitsy coin pouch. If you happen to drop by just leave a comment by 12:00am EST March 2. I will announce the winner 2:00 pm that same day.

Center top-- First Love is not available it was ambushed yesterday. Take your pick. Top left--Abbey road, strawberries and cream. Top right--apples and pears oh my!, not a wink. Lower center--mocha temptation.

Starting from top left--candy blossoms, purple dreams (not available), green moca and ladybug vine. From top right--feathered friends, cocoa mint, Asian blooms (sorry not available) and strawberries and cream.

Have a fabulous day!

Fabrics from Fave Designers

2008-02-21T09:50:00.004-05:00

I am so excited about a new line of fabrics coming in a few months by two of my favorite designers--Joel Dewberry and Amy Butler. Scrumptious prints as usual and I can't wait to get get my hands on them! My head is abuzz already planning what to make with them.

These are from Joel Dewberry's Ginseng Collection, who I recently learned is Donna Dewberry's son. She's the creator of the "One Stroke Painting". I took some classes locally but was cut short when I started my biz.

Jasmine Palette

Mulberry Palette

Spice Palette

These are from Amy Butler's Midwest Modern Line

Hmmm I have to make room for more fabrics!

More Fabric Closet Pics

2008-02-11T09:56:00.001-05:00

When a friend of mine read my previous blog she called me and asked why am I showing just a little snippet of my fabric closet? She wanted to see the inside from all angles! So here goes:

Amazingly enough I have more space to spare at the bottom. I have kept this neat for two weeks now and I hope it stays that way.

STUDIO FRIDAY: THE HEART OF YOUR STUDIO!

2008-02-08T08:54:00.000-05:00

I joined this group, Studio Friday a few months back but never got around to post anything. I have been lurking but not really participating.

The topic for this week is--"Where or what is the heart of your studio/creative space? Is it your desk or maybe a special piece of furniture, a window, a piece of art on the wall, your idea board, or one of your tools, a jar with ribbons on the shelf...? "

The timing of this topic is so perfect. I have been laboriously fixing my studio and this is going to be the year that I will finish decorating it!

This is a mini walk in closet where I put all my quilting cottons (decorator fabrics still to be tackled) and ribbons which I mostly use for my handbags. I had just organized it and I know where everything is. It is on this step that I sit, my studio being under the eaves and I can't really stand up straight even at 5'3" tall, and gaze and touch them lovingly planning my next creation. This is where my creative juices flow and I will have a floor cushion soon as it takes toll on my back to sit too long!

New Pillows

2008-02-06T10:10:00.002-05:00

I finished painting my room and my daughter's last December. I would sew in the morning and finish up the orders that would go out that day then paint in the afternoon with my brother's help. I was practically running into myself but I feel so good when I look at my handiwork.We had my other brother and her family from Arizona over the Holidays and it was so much fun showing them all my "new stuff". I managed to make some pillows using my favorite fabrics. I wish I can squeeze in more time to make more sets. I can only show portions of my room right now as some are not yet done--I am organizing everything and what you don't see is in chaos but I am getting there. To me that small window is an eyesore. I had a huge painting covering it before. I was thinking either get a Chinese carved window frame or put curtains to simulate a larger window matching the one right by the bed. It needs to be covered since light comes through and hits my tv.

Since the old closet had been taken out I have more space (left of the screen) where I do my workouts! Love the way my bed looks positioned at an angle.

I've always had white pillowcases but this time I want color and pattern. I did a patchwork on the breakfast pillow then quilted it. If only I can get enough sleep!

One of my precious possessions, a 1940s Hollywood Regency Chinese Wedding Cabinet that I use as an entertainment center/storage.

The headboard has to go--I've had this for years and years as I was into Victorian and shabby chic a few years ago. Now I want eclectic modern. I like to mix contemporary with Oriental/exotic pieces. I have been checking out West Elm.

This is my favorite which has an Oriental motif. It would go so well with my Chinese cabinet.

The same headboard in a different room setting.

Low wood headboard. Love the lamp.

Octagon Headboard. They don't have this color in Full anymore. I would have liked this one too and the price is sooo right.

High wood headboard. That's a nice pleated comforter, don't you think?

This is it for now.

Quilted Handbags

2008-02-05T10:06:00.002-05:00

I added some quilted handbags to the site one is a patchwork. I have been meaning to do some quilted items but never got around to it. It can be time consuming but worth it and fun especially patchwork as I get to play with a lot of fabric combination. It is such a pleasure sewing with Magnolia--I hope you don't mind me gushing about her again! I am working on a large wholesale order right now so I can't really add more stuff but I will be adding more as I have new fabrics that came in. Okay I have to get back to work--have a fabulous day.

Meet Magnolia

2008-02-04T21:20:00.000-05:00

Presenting----Magnolia! My old sewing machine died on me first week of January. I have been meaning to get a new one especially a Janome brand. I was so excited the day it was scheduled to be delivered--I kept looking through my window for the UPS truck. It runs whisper quite and sews like a dream. I have to get a sturdier sewing table though or have this one reinforced because the poor table shakes like an earthquake when I set the speed a little bit past medium. I thought the machine was defective but the dealer said try it on another table--a sturdy one and see if it still shakes. A big sigh of relief--it was my existing table that was causing it. I lovingly dust it everyday and will make her a cover soon. I might get an embroidery machine--see how this year goes.

Back to Earth

2008-02-03T14:55:00.000-05:00

Hello everybody. Boy oh boy it's been a long time since I posted something here! Anyway I am back to earth---finally. I hope everybody had a nice time over the Holidays. Believe it or not I just put away my decorations and my Christmas village. I am just getting over a nasty cold and I am feeling much better--it slows you down when you don't feel that great.

Humor me while I share some pictures with you all.

Three different shots of my tree which was about 7.5 feet. I can never get a good shot just like the ones in magazines. I usually do a different theme every year. I was into Victorian for a while, I did Oriental, all green, all red, etc. This year I just did "Our favorite Ornaments".

One of the ballerinas on spinners--they really look lovely doing pirouettes on the tree!Cinderella's coach, an ornament my daughter made when she was 5, precious moments, handmade Japanese paper fans.

I just put out a few of my Christmas village.

Until next time--I have to make some stuff for tonight--have fun watching the Super Bowl.

Hassle Free Holiday Shopping

2007-12-03T14:06:00.000-05:00

Hello everybody. I just popped in for a quick hello and some updates. This is my best Holiday season yet! I have finally added Lisa, our convertible wristlet and it's been a hit. I named it after my 2-year old niece whom I just met for the first time last Thanksgiving. You will notice some cute imported Japanese prints that are so popular. I have more but will slowly add them since I have to fill in some orders and send them out as soon as I can.Wear it three ways--as a wristlet, mini purse and belt pouch.

I just added some itsy bitsy zipper pouches. I remember as I child I had a lot of mini pouches that I used to stash my treasures in.

I got my live Christmas Tree but haven't had a chance to do anything yet. My Holiday purse party is this next Sunday so it will be a whirlwind week for me--Oh and my Christmas village too I have to start on that soon. That is another thing to do. I hope I survive this week!

Ballerina girl

2007-11-15T20:34:00.000-05:00

I am so proud of my baybcakes (she doesn't want people to hear me say that anymore!). She had been dancing for almost 9 years now and she just got her pointe shoes. I never got that far. Dance is a big part of her life and luckily it hasn't affected her grades since it takes a lot of time and dedication to get this far. I didn't realized how very particular she is about some things (like me) when I was trying to sew in the elastic and the pink satin ribbon to her shoes. She tried it on so many times--"they are not even", don't scratch the satin with the pin", "the thread has to match", make sure the stitches are straight, etc. Like mother like daughter, I'll say!

Just perfect!

New convertible wristlet

2007-11-12T09:30:00.001-05:00

I have finally finished a couple of my new convertible wristlet, Lisa named after my 2 year old niece. My daughter had been asking for a "hip" wristlet that she can use when she's out shopping. This would be great for moms too especially with a baby and a toddler in tow when doing errands. I will hopefully have them on the site this weekend. I am preparing for a craft show this Friday and Saturday and trying to make more belts and mother and daughter handbags which are very popular.

After drafting a couple of patterns I finally decided on this--even if matching the top seams can be tricky. Knowing myself, if they don't match I will undo and resew it! I have seen some high end bags where seams are so off and it bugs me. I hope you like it.

Wear it three ways--as a wristlet, belt bag and a mini purse! Pretty cool, huh? Okay off to my sewing room. Have a fabulous week!

Caught Redhanded!

2007-11-08T08:52:00.000-05:00

All our bunnies are litter trained but occasionally Bella and Pumpkin would do their potty in another corner. I recently bought them a dog's dish since it is larger and heavier and Miko won't be able to toss and push it down from the third floor (yes they have a three story bunny condo!). Lately somebunny had been using it as a littler box and I was certain it was Bella so I would every now and then put her on one of the litter boxes so she remembers to do it in there.

Poor Bella it was Miko all along! He was grooming without a care in the world.

Check out the puddle on the floor.

Bella turning a blind eye.

Who can resist such an innocent look?

I will try putting the dish on the second floor during the day see if it works. I'll keep you updated.

Ouch--My trigger foot!!

2007-10-26T08:13:00.000-05:00

Almost a month ago I said I was back but something always comes up. Anyway here I am and hopefully post a couple of times a week.

I talked about getting on my bike almost everyday as therapy for my right knee--well I had been doing that until a few months back when I fell off my bike. It was such a lovely day and I thought I will drop by the antique shop across the street and brought my wristlet with me. I was on it for about 2 minutes and tried to adjust the wristlet strap and I guess I swerved too sharply to the left and without warning fell to the ground. My first thought was,"Oh no I got orders to fill"!! Then I felt my ankle twist, and my knee hitting the rough ground and pain shot through me and screamed. A neighbor came running and I kept telling him I hurt my trigger foot. He was like, "Your trigger what??". My precious right foot which of course I use to run my sewing machine. It still hurts every now and then since sprains usually takes a while to heal and you have to deal with flare ups every now and then. Thank goodness I was still close enough to go back home without any help and put some cold compress. I didn't even call my doctor. If I broke something I wouldn't be able to walk. Later that night I realized I hit the left side of my chest with the handle bar when I noticed a nasty big bruise.

The left handle bar took the brunt which saved my left elbow. The rubber was scraped completely off.

I managed to finish these wristlets the week of my fall by taking frequent breaks.
Six pretty twirly bags all in a row! A month or so after my fall and my ankle still sore I miraculously was able to whip these up and the messenger bags.

I hope to be getting back on my bike soon but I just couldn't muster the courage to go on it just yet. I had been using my stationary bike but it is sooo boring.

Lesson learned---don't get distracted when you are on the road! Until next time and take care.

I'm Baaack!

2007-09-27T09:26:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone. How time goes by--it's been two months since I posted something here. Too many many things happened since then and I don't know where to start. In scrapbooking (which by the way I have to start doing again soon) they advise you to start from the latest pictures and work your way down. Well I just had a craft show in Del Rey Beach a few miles south of Palm Beach and about an hour south of where I live. I have finally bought some free standing panels but I have to buy more probably next year. I want them on both sides of my booth.

It was so hot most of the time but that's the way it is here.

I must say my bags were showcased better because of these panels.

I only sell these adorable beaded socks locally and are very popular and so are the hairbows.

I can't resist taking a picture of this diva poodle!

I have another craft show coming locally this weekend and I hope it would be a lot cooler!

No emails!

2007-07-26T11:59:00.000-05:00

Grrr...I am not getting any emails from my main account. Just in case you haven't heard from me you know what's wrong. Usually it happens with yahoo but this is the first time with this email which is not good because I use this one mostly for business. I have reported it and waiting for a response. I tried sending a couple of emails from my other email accounts and I didn't get them. I am sort of at a loss right now and you don't realize it until something like this happens how dependent you are on your computer! It is the same thing with cellphones--if I forgot mine at home I get agitated (just a little!).

Just added a new messenger and wristlet in a beautiful Japanese floral which I named Harmony.

I guess I can sign off and finish sewing a bag I started last night. Have a relaxing day!

Three Little Bunnies

2007-07-25T08:41:00.002-05:00

Whew! I can finally catch my breath and sit down and post something. I have been busy prepping my room for painting and I still have to choose the paint color. Maybe this weekend I can swing by Lowe's or Home Depot.

I haven't had a chance to introduce our cute three little bunnies. I have always loved rabbits even before I knew I was born the Year of the Rabbit. Check your sign here. I like the description from the Chinese Restaurant's placemat the best where it says--Luckiest of all signs..... I have always wanted a pet rabbit since I was in second grade when I saw my friend's rabbit but alas I never got one so when my daughter wanted a pet there was no question about which one.

This is (left to right) Bella, Pumpkin and Miko. They are all dwarf rabbits and stay inside the house (they are litter trained). Bella and Pumpkin are Lionheads and Miko is a Holland Lop .

They get to spend a few hours a day outside. It is so much fun watching them--you never know what they will do!

Give me a little kissie Mikkie Boo!!

The dark bunny is Precious our first bunny but she passed away last September. We miss her a lot. She was more like a dog--she used to come running when you whistle and do a binky ( jump and twist in midair).

Until next time.

Christmas in July

2007-07-13T10:41:00.001-05:00

I have been checking out my product inventory these past few days. Well I have a lot of Erika wristlets made especially this print Mod Island. I should take another picture as this one doesn't really do the print justice. I decided to give one to the first one who claims it here. Good luck!

Bedroom Redo

2007-07-11T10:40:00.002-05:00

I have finally added my newest style, Joan, convertible messenger bag. I have also added some wristlets and will be adding more.

Finally my room and my daughter's are finally done! The wood floors are in and we are ready to paint and decorate. I have decided to do mine first. I have been so busy since Babycakes Boutique opened a year ago that I haven't gotten around to doing stuff for myself.

This is where my old closet was and I kept a little portion of it as an additional what else?? Fabric closet! To the right is the door to my studio, across it is my bed. To the left of the wall and further back is my new walk in closet. I haven't decided what color to paint my room yet but it would be lighter or the same than that of the studio.

I have always used white or light sheets but I am ready for some color. This would be my color palette. Just love Amy Butler's prints. They work so well together. I love pillows and it would be awesome to showcase these prints. I might be brave enough to tackle a patchwork duvet cover!

Just bought some pillow patterns and I am planning to put them where the blank wall is. It looks complicated but after reading the instructions it turned out to be pretty easy. Time consuming, maybe because of all the petals you have to cut, interface and hand sew.

Just love it. It was even featured in In Style magazine a few years back.

Gum drop pillows. I could just picture them on my floor in a couple of different prints. Ooh I can't wait! This is pretty easy too but requires a lot of stuffing.

That lady is going to be me in a few weeks! Stay tuned for updates. Have a productive day.

Joan-Convertible Messenger Bag

2007-07-05T09:13:00.001-05:00

I hope everybody had a wonderful 4th of July. It was such a beautiful day until about 4:30 when it rained cats and dogs. I was so looking forward to grilling some fish and chicken that I have marinated the night before but it wasn't meant to be. We needed the rain though--well I guess I will be grilling for lunch today!

I have a some Joan (a feminine version of my eldest brother's name, Jonathan) messenger bags made a couple of months ago and had put a preview on my site. I did some test drive and had to make some minor changes. There were a couple of inquiries about when they are available for sale and I actually sold two to a very good but impatient customer. I am happy to say I am ready to unveil them this week, pictures are ready and will be adding them before the end of the week. It can be converted into a backpack or a stroller bag and it comes with 3 straps and a matching storage pouch--isn't that great?

I can't stay long I have to make a Genny and Raina set that came in yesterday morning.

Hip Hop Abs

2007-07-01T11:25:00.001-05:00

Okay I just have to share this one. I was sipping coffee and turned on the TV and this infomercial was on. I am telling you this one is good--it got my attention and built up my excitement. I was glued to the tv as they offer you one special offer one after another. I have a lot of exercise DVDs and mind you I have been religiously using them these past few weeks plus Fit TV which is on 24 hours. Isn't that great? I figured there's no excuse for me not to workout. I could be working out while my I am doing laundry and thawing meat for dinner! I like to dance that's why most of my workout DVDs are dance routines--to cut the story short I did buy the Hip Hop Abs. I should have gone on line instead of calling and saved some time. All those extra offers that will be taken off your credit card if are you not careful. So I just said I don't have time and all I want is what is being offered on TV, period. $77.17 including shipping and I got an extra DVD for just making one payment instead of 3. I'll let you know when they get here!

Thai Chicken Salad

2007-06-29T13:44:00.001-05:00

I love to cook--I do it everyday and most often than not for lunch and dinner. On weekends, breakfast too! My daughter is used to home cooked meals and if you say dinner is just ham and cheese she would be so disappointed. I learned to cook when I was 9 or 10. My mother encouraged me to cook and if I didn't like the food my mom would say "Go and cook what you want then." I have decided to share some of my favorite recipes. My friends especially like my eggrolls and oriental noodles but I am the type of cook that doesn't measure, unless it is a new recipe I am following. Most of the everyday stuff I cook (and parties) are from memory handed down to me by my mother and close relatives. I will slowly try to write them down so I can share them here and of course the ones I have collected throughout the years (with measurements).

I am not a salad eater--I would rather have lots and lots of vegetables with some meat mixed in and Jasmine rice. If my main meal is a salad it has to have meat in it! Here's one that I like but I forgot to take a picture of it when I made it the other day. I have this written down in a tattered piece of paper for years-- try it and let me know what you think.

Thai Chicken Salad

Serves 6
Nutrition per serving: 175 calories, 28g. protein, 8g. carb, 3 g. fat,64g chol.

4 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
1/2 c bean sprouts
2 bell peppers
1 bag mixed greens

Dressing
1 1/2 tsp olive oil
1 lime (juice oly)
2 tsp sugar
1 tsp chili powder
2T Teriyaki sauce
1 T water
3 T rice wine vinegar
2 T ginger (fresh grated)
4 scallions (chopped)
1/2 c basil leaves (fresh chopped)
1/2 c mint leaves (fresh chopped)--I don't like mint leaves so I substitute it with more salad greens

Poach chicken in salted water until opaque. Drain and shred into pieces. Combine dressing ingredients and toss with chicken. Add sprouts and peppers. Serve over mixed greens.

All in a Day's Work

2007-06-25T16:40:00.001-05:00

I have been one busy bee yesterday. During weekends I don't have a set schedule to sew--it is sporadic to say the least. I have been wanting to add more wristlets since they have been selling really well.

I will work on these later. I need to put the zippers in, do the straps and pockets.

Patiently waiting to be assembled. I love the coffee print which I have been holding on for awhile but I wanted to share it with my customers. I have some in blue and cream and two other different prints. I will probably make a messenger bag.

Tory Wristlets. I love these prints and they are both out of print and hard to find..

Erika wristlets. I will take pictures of the wirstlets outside tomorrow, take the background off then hopefully add it on the site..

Bobbie Medium Handbag which had just been given a makeover--I added a ribbon accent band. See the purse feet? I have decided to make it standard without extra cost plus a hard bottom. All of my bags are heavily interfaced (they can stand on their own) but I don't mind putting in the extra time. I am still waiting for my shipment so I can announce it. That's is why I haven't put the ribbon handbags yet.

Oooh my knee!!

2007-06-20T21:50:00.000-05:00

I have been sort of taking it easy this past few days. My poor right knee had a flair up (it was bad today) and I had been limping and boy did it hurt to walk! I was in bed most of the time with cold a pack on my aching knee and occasionally sew so I don't get too backed up. I was told 6 years ago I had effusion( all those years on step classes and stair climbers most likely) and was given some exercises to strengthen it because it was only functioning at 40% and my left knee is taking the extra burden. Well I haven't been doing them religiously and now I am paying for it. Now I have to do them plus at least 20 minutes of cycling everyday--no substitution. Next on my agenda--take my fairly unused bike out of the garage!

Take a Moment

2007-06-14T14:54:00.000-05:00

I have been doing a sewing marathon lately. I hate getting backed up--I get so uneasy and I usually get palpitations when I am stressed so I try to be on top of things most of the time. I took it easy today besides I got somebody working in our bedrooms taking out the carpet and putting in wood floors---yes!!! We have allergies and this would help tremendously. When I had my studio done and I can see the dust that gathers on the floor (yikes!) I swore I will never have carpeting ever again.

Sweet smelling gardenia in front of the house. For some reason a lot of people get lost when they come to the house. So when it is blooming I tell them just turn in the driveway with the gardenia (you can smell it even before reaching the house) and it works all the time.

Some of my orchids in front of the house by the door.

Another one by the kitchen window.

I rearranged the back and put more orchids and plants. So peaceful especially when I need to recharge.

This is Sam. He usually comes in the afternoons.

This is it for now. I think I am ready to tackle another sewing marathon!

Ribbon Handbags

2007-06-10T19:27:00.002-05:00

My studio had been overrun by ribbons! My daughter and I have been having so much fun designing our ribbon handbags which will be named after my mother.

Just a few of the ribbon shipments I got a few weeks ago.

Ribbons, ribbons and more ribbons!! I have to start organizing them or it will definitely get out of control. There are about 15 plastic boxes like this all over the place.

I just love the blue and brown with just a touch of pink. My 12 year old did these but we can't decided which one would it be.

A couple of finished handbags. I will probably put them on the site sometime next week.

Ms. Kim's Baby Shower

2007-06-05T08:20:00.000-05:00

My daughter's dance teacher, Miss Kim had a baby shower last Sunday at the studio. She is due in September and is having a girl, Ava Grace.

Freshly baked goodies from one of the moms. I loved the blondie--best I have tasted--I swear!

Ms.Kim

I gave her a couple of burpies (I am still thinking if I will add them on the site) and a large mommy clutch/wristlet which I also call "poopie bag".

I promised Ms. Kim I will not show this but I can't resist. She looks like Bo Peep!

Taylor and my daughter, Kailene.

With another friend, Regina.

Zippered Tote Bag

2007-05-31T18:51:00.003-05:00

I have always been intimidated by zippers. Since most of the dresses I made for my daughter were smocked/heirloom type dresses I didn't have to worry about them. I always used buttons or fancy pins for closure. It took me awhile to do the wristlets because it meant I had to put in the much dreaded zippers. Surprisingly it wasn't that bad and I was able to use the technique I used to line the dresses without any seams showing. Purses are another story though. They are more complicated because of the several layers I have to deal with. I was asked to make a Debbie bag in the Miami print but a Weekender size and zipper closure. It is going to be a birthday present for a friend who adores flamingos (she already got the Debbie bag in the flamingo print). I have searched the net for a tutorial and there are plenty of them but I ended up doing it my way. I am actually proud of it and might add a zippered handbag soon. I received an email from the recepient and she was happy with it!
I made a complete set just in case she wanted matching accessories. She ended up getting the wristlet.

Side View

Top view. I like this kind of zipper closure--it has a "lip". If it doesn't it looks weird to me especially if the handbag is boxed. It tends to look out of proportion because the top is a lot narrower than the bottom.

Pottery Barn Studio

2007-05-30T22:50:00.002-05:00

potterybarn, originally uploaded by Lagomorph.

I was browsing through flickr and came across this. I literally clutched my chest with excitement! I love their style and I have all their books. My studio is not as big as this but I love the shelf--exactly what I need. It can be my mailing station where I put the ribbons, tissue paper and some odds and ends. I have been planning to decorate my studio ala PB style. I don't recall seeing this in their catalog or maybe I missed it. I just checked their site and it is not in the catalog anymore. I have actually seen something similar at Michael's. They are called quilt racks and they come unfinished. Maybe I can swing by there this weekend. I know I have to finish decorating but something always comes up. If a big order comes in I can't spare the time to be fixing stuff let alone do the laundry! One of these days I will since it makes such a difference when everything is so orderly and pretty.

Time to go to bed and dream about it.

Beach Party

2007-05-29T15:54:00.000-05:00

It was a beautiful Saturday and uncharacteristically cool for this time of year. I hope it stays this way much longer. My daughter turned 12 last May 16 and we had a beach party for her.
The birthday girl doing endless carthweels. Such energy!

Red flag was up but you will surprised so many people ignore it. It kept the lifeguards busy I'll say.

Taking a break.

We had so much fun we decided to go to the beach more often. We should thank our lucky stars--we are only 10 minutes away!

Birthday Girl

2007-05-16T17:21:00.000-05:00

My darling daughter is 12 years old today. Time flies so fast! She was so excited last night and can't wait to get her presents. She can wear some of my shoes (I am a 7- 7 1/2) and about one inch shorter than I.

Downtown Stuart Craft Show

2007-05-15T09:58:00.001-05:00

Belated Happy Mother's Day! I didn't have a chance to greet everybody over the weekend. I have finally recharged my batteries and ready for the week. The craft show wasn't too bad. It was my first show in this venue which is 10 minutes away from home. I saw a lot of familiar faces as we are a very close knit community and almost everybody knows everybody. A lot of snowbirds who are ready to leave in a couple of weeks before the weather really gets scorching hot. The weather though could have cooperated more. Saturday was cooler but all those love bugs! I didn't even know THOSE were love bugs. I have always thought they were cute and adorable but let me tell you--they are anything but. The plus side is they don't bite. My daughter was so bothered by them she had to go home last Sunday. We need rain but did it have to be Sunday? Well it was just a drizzle for about 10 minutes. Overall I had a great time. People recognized me from the newspaper article and they kept asking me how I find time to make all these purses and the oohs and aahs were music to my ears.

I was lucky enough to be under the shade of a tree. This is my booth with my spanking brand new tent from BJs--I have to fine tune my display. I have to get grids so I can hang my purses along the sides.

People asked my how do I find time to do all these purses? Well I try to make a couple everyday and do stuff around the house on top of that. I multi task--put in the laundry, thaw some meat for dinner, go upstairs to cut and sew, take a break and read a little, check if laundry is done etc, etc. I am a SAHM (Stay at Home Mom) and I love to create. I do what I love and I am making money out of it--what more can I ask? I am my own boss and I can play hooky if I want to. I didn't know I have so many until they were all out there on display and it felt soooo good!

I sold a lot of belts and key rings. I will be adding some novelty ribbon belts and key rings on my site hopefully this week assuming my new ribbon shipments (take note--shipments not shipment) will arrive soon!

I had the cutest customers who stopped by. Isn't she the cutest ever? Only two and she is already into purses! This is the first time I have seen bunnies in strollers! I have three ( will have to put them here soon) and I know they won't sit still. I have to go so I can catch up on my sewing. Until next time.

25 things a man in love should know

2007-05-10T14:14:00.000-05:00

Here's part II---

Know

1. How to fix a leaky faucet without making jokes about "men's work."

2. How to clean the kitchen without making jokes about "women's work."

3. Sorry ladies I can't put this down here. Contact me if you want to know!

4. Oops!! Can't write this down either. Sorry!

5. Why holding the door or treating you to dinner isn't sexist, but asking whether you're in a bad mood because you're premenstrual is.

6. The location of the lint filter in the dryer.

7. When no means no.

8. What your favorite flower is and where to buy a bouquet of it.

9. Why he shouldn't be jealous of your cat, best friend or the old boyfriend you ate
lunch with last week.

10. Here's another one I can't add--aren't you just dying to know what it is????

11. How to cook foods other than meat.

12. Why what Woody did to Mia was wrong.

13. How to buy his own mother a birthday present.

14. The words to your favorite song and whether his voice is good enough to serenade you with it.

15. Hmmm I wonder if I can omit some words. Okay I'll do that----
How to massage your back without also massaging other distinctly nonback areas.

16. How to massage those nonback areas without giving you the sense he's kneading a particularly tough hunk of dough.

17. When he should leave you alone when you say, "Leave me alone."

18. When not to.

19. How to navigate beyond the beer and chips/snacks/dips aisles at the supermarket.

20. That saying "I'm sorry" does not make him a wimp.

21. How to surprise you in b_d.

22. How to be surprised back.

23. Why you're the best thing that ever happened to him.

24. Why he's the best thing that ever happened to you.

25. How to keep it that way.

Print this out and put it where you better half can see it everyday! Until next time.

25 things every man in love should have

2007-05-09T15:48:00.000-05:00

I was organizing one of my drawers today and found a xeroxed copy of it in one of my folders. I thought I might share this--here goes!

HAVE.....

1. A medicine cabinet devoid of old girlfriend's mascara, lipstick and birth control pills.

2. A bed on which the sheets have been changed at least once this season.

3. The self-restraint not to read your journal, should he discover it.

4. A vocabulary that comfortably contains the words commitment, marriage and children.

5. The memory of the first woman he loved- his second grade teacher.

6. A knowledge of the female anatomy that transcends P-----y centerfolds.

7. The ability to talk to your boss, your sister and your aunt Sally about something other that himself.

8. A shirt or sweater or jacket or jeans-so great you want to steal it.

9. A kissing technique that's been updated since high school.

10. The patience to watch your favorite weepy movie without breaking into loud guffaws.

11. An interest he's developed because of you.

12. An interest he maintains (like model trains, not another woman) despite you.

13. A way of introducing you that doesn't depend on the word my.

14. A picture of you as a kid that he thinks is really, really cute.

15. At least one female friend he hasn't slept with.

16. At least one male friend who's happily married.

17. Either great ideas for how to arrange the furniture or no idea at all.

18. The knack of buying you clothing you're not ashamed to wear out of the house.

19. A speaking relationship with your family.

20. At least one pair of underwear without stains, holes or a droopy seat.

21. A CD that always gets you in the mood.

22. A set of headphones for the ones that don't.

23. A past that stays there.

24. A sense of what he'd do with his life if you weren't in it.

25. The conviction that, however wonderful his alternatives, he'd rather be with you.

Okay that's it for now and tomorrow will be part II--25 things every man in love should know.

Photo Shoot

2007-05-08T10:37:00.000-05:00

What a big sigh of relief!! My photo shoot just wrapped up and it wasn't that bad--I had been such a wreck this past few days. Actually it was fun. The photographer was nice and took a lot of pictures just in case.... We did it in the back and thank God the weather is just perfect. It will be out this Friday.

Now I can concentrate on making more stuff for my craft show this coming weekend. I have started making key rings and novelty belts and will be adding them on the site soon.

It is so beautiful outside. I wish I have time to just sit and read today but alas I can't because I am running behind schedule. Well maybe just a few minutes!

Taking it Easy

2007-05-05T13:52:00.000-05:00

My newspaper interview had been postponed for next Tuesday. I got a little reprieve. I decided to take it easy yesterday before tackling some orders that came in. My left arm was a little bit stiff as I woke up on my left side. I might have slept that way the whole time.

I got a visit from Mr. Turtle while I was reading yesterday. He passes by once in a while and I wish I can just clean that stuff off his back but it is better to leave him alone. Every time I got close he would retreat back in his shell. I let him be until he decided to go back to the lake where a family of ducks was playing. I love this time of day when I can have some peace and quite and just sit and enjoy a cup of coffee and a good book.

Later in the afternoon I went back out to rest--my left arm was better. I was mesmerized when I looked up. All these branches silhouetted against the darkening sky and I could hear a flock birds flew over and squirrels scurrying from tree to tree. So peaceful!

How time flies. It is already 3:30. I will organized my workspace because if I don't get on top of things stuff gets piled on my cutting table and it can get overwhelming to put things away later on. That's when I feel so helpless and don't know where to start. When I am in a hurry to finish a project that's when everything goes haywire. I have to get in to the habit of putting things where they belong as soon as I am done with them. Easier said than done but I have gotten better.
I have to get going--maybe I can make one bag before I start to get ready for my daughter's Musical Theater Recital tonight.

Will be featured in local Newspaper

2007-05-01T16:20:00.000-05:00

Okay I haven't been posting here lately. I am caught up and more organized than a few weeks ago so I will be posting more often. I have been sort of burned out lately but a phone call a few minutes ago shook me out of it. I got a call from my local newspaper and asked if they could do a story on me and my biz plus a photo. I was shocked and when I heard "picture" alarm bells rang in my ears and I declined. I have been trying to lose weight and haven't gotten to where I want to be and I look terrible in pictures lately. I get very self conscious. Maybe they can retouch my face somewhat and make it more angular--well it won't hurt to ask! Anyway, common sense kicked in and I would be demented to refuse--think about it--free advertising! Who cares if I need to lose weight (I have been good lately, mind you) and this is heaven sent. So I called this nice gentleman back and set up a shoot this Friday morning. Ooh I have to do my nails....

Klutz!

2007-04-02T07:57:00.000-05:00

I love to sip my latte in the morning while checking my email or surfing the web. Not anymore--or maybe just put the cup down further away from the keyboard! Of all the things I had to spill it had to be a cup of hot coffee topped with whipped cream and drizzled with cinnamon. I might have turned too sharply to the right. I scrambled to get paper towels hoping I did not do enough damage as the hot liquid go spilled directly on it--talk about bullseye. I feverishly rummaged through the toolbox and didn't even know which kind I needed, painstakingly unscrewed everything hoping I can lift the top portion off so I can clean underneath the keyboards. Guess what--you can't! It is attached securely to the top part and you can only get to the wires. It was a mess inside but let me tell you it did smell wonderful. To cut the story short I got it all cleaned up but this one had to be laid to rest. I love this keyboard-- it so comfortable to use but hard to find. Fortunately my brother had an extra lying around somewhere and I had it hooked up in no time.

New Style--New Products

2007-03-15T18:06:00.001-05:00

I haven't posted in awhile. It's been crazy lately---good crazy, that is. I have been doing background removal on the images and I am almost done. It is quite tedious but it's worth it. I have added some new stuff since my last post. I have added fabric belts Beth and Sally named after my two cousins and a bangle wristlet, Tory, named after my niece's daughter. Finally I finished the Laurie bag I talked about last month. Actually I add New Items all the time. I don't like to launch my collection for the season and then wait until the next season. I like to keep it fresh--release a little at a time--so when somebody checks my site she sees new things all the time. It keeps me on my toes and I like to do different bags/fabrics since it takes out the humdrum of cutting, sewing and pressing seams! I don't stock up on a lot yardage of the same fabric either--there's too many fabulous fabrics out there and I don't want to keep using the same fabrics over and over again. When a fabric is sold out I seldom reorder unless I really really love it or a lot of customers are asking for it.

Okay I have to go--I smell Chinese food---I didn't have time to cook so we just ordered!

Drafting a Clutch Pattern

2007-02-13T08:55:00.000-05:00

Well I spoke too soon in my last post about our non existent cold front. A few days after that we did have a rather lengthy and much awaited cold weather. Now it is back to the upper 70s but we are supposed to get another one over the weekend.

I have been asked a couple of times to design a clutch with flap. So I have been busy drafting and finally came up with the look I wanted after several prototypes. It reminds of one of my mom's clutches that I used to play dress up with. Hmmm--who should I name it after?

Just in case you didn't notice my poor cutting mat needs to be retired. I have been trying to work on the edges where it is still intact but it can be bothersome and counterproductive as I am cutting the fabric a little at a time and constantly moving in over to the good side. I saw a cutting mat in lavender--that would be lovely!

Brrrrr?

2007-01-28T19:16:00.000-05:00

It is a beautiful Sunday morning. We are supposed to have a cold front--in the 50s? Well to us South Floridians that is COLD! It's more like low 70s with gusty winds. Most of us turn on the heater when the temperature drops even for a few degrees. I don't. For one thing our heater isn't hooked up yet and I like it cold as long as my knees don't start hurting. That's when I know it is too cold inside the house. We haven't really had a lot of cold fronts for the last couple of years but Hurricanes, well that's another story. My daughter spent the night with a friend so I can have some time to relax, sit back and catch up on my reading with a cup of cappuccino. I hardly drink regular coffee--I am a latte/cappuccino kind of gal. I have two books that I started reading simultaneously--Feng Shui Your Life by Jayme Barret and Feng Shui Revealed by R.D. Chin. This is my favorite spot until it gets too hot in late Spring, that is. The view is great as I get to see sunrise and sunset, hear the soothing sound of the water, chirping birds, scurrying squirrels and nosy family of ducks that share the space with me. I am waiting for one unusual creature that I haven't seen in awhile. It has a body of a dog but it has a snout like a pig's! If I see it I will try and take a picture and post it here maybe somebody knows what it is.

Curtains for Closet

2007-01-25T17:01:00.001-05:00

After using my bedroom as a sewing room for quite some time my sewing studio (ooh that sounds good!) came to fruition August of last year. It was part of our attic right beside my bedroom but we had to raise the floor about one foot so it would be level with the bedroom floor. It is approximately 8 x 10 space not including the mini walk in closet and a cubicle that serves as my computer/office space. This is another thing I have to do--finish decorating it!--another passion of mine. I want it to look contemporary --Pottery Barn style. Putting a closet door was out of the question-- a curtain would be a better idea but I couldn't decide how and it had to be done to protect my fabric collection (some are in another walk in closet downstairs!) from dust. I decided to use a tension bar and rings with clips ( Linens n Things). I love this fabric it goes so well with the wall color and I have just enough left for the window and to cover my cutting table (my next projects). Spa blue, olive green, chocolate milk, mocha and coral on a chocolate background. The wall color is toasted brown bread. I added brown twill and olive green satin ribbon to save some fabric and frankly it looks more interesting and not too overwhelming. Don't you think so? It took me just an hour including spray painting the tension rod.

Okay, now I have to start cutting some fabrics. Until next time.

First Post--at last

2007-01-24T09:18:00.001-05:00

Hello everyone. I have finally embraced the 21st century way of journal keeping--blogging. Why not? I almost always talk to myself and I had a diary when I was a lot younger. In retrospect, I think I was hesitant to get out of my comfort zone--wary of the unknown. Just like with my website it took me a long time to go for it as I am not computer savvy (well I am a lot better now). It took me awhile to finish my site but I learned a lot along the way. Actually I find html quite interesting....

I have so many things I want to do and you will probably read them here which is great since the accountability factor is at play here. First on my list is to add some Laurie ( female version of my younger brother's name Lawrence) Weekender Tote. I have actually been playing around with some of my fabrics and trims and came out with these. I have already came up with the name for the middle one. The last one on the right is called Ooh LA LA! which I did with Jane (named after my neighbor). I still have to come up with a name for the first one--any ideas?

I have named my bags after family, friends and customers. I have a lot of different styles and for some it might be overwhelming but I like variety --it would probably drive me crazy to make a particular style over and over again and with the same fabric! Sometimes I would get an order for 4-6 identical bags but not very often--most of my customers get different bag styles. My mind is constantly brewing different fabric combinations and which style to make. This keeps me on my toes and my creative juices flowing.

I will work on the Eiffel Tower print and post it here when it is done.