Today I fashioned another Hang Up with the new pattern that I first tried the other day. This Hang Up will be for sale in my Etsy by the end of the day. I christened her "Turquoise Tantrum" because of the swirlish, girlish fabric she's constructed from. Not that tantrums are girlish, mind you. No, I'd never admit say that...
This tote is constructed of fabric from Amy Butler's line, called Daisy Chain. I do love the colors and design of this line. I don't know Amy Butler's IQ, but I'm thinking she's a genius. Her fabrics are simply fantabulous. They can make anything look good.
Goodness, I've lost my heart to this one, but I have to be strong. I just have to keep reminding myself that sometimes adoption is the best policy...
This bag has these delightful features ... two inside pockets, a magnetic closure, fully lined with double interfacing for extra support, two 22" reinforced fabric straps, the cutest little pleats you could ever meet and two big, beautiful, voluptuous buttons. This Hang Up measures approximately 14" x 12" -- she's "purse" size.
Drizzle a little chocolate on top and I could eat this baby...
Have you ever had a chocolate covered raspberry? Ambrosial ... Heavenly ... Scrumptious ... are just a few words to describe that delectable combination. Those same words apply to the chocolate browns and raspberry pinks in this beautiful line of fabrics designed by Patty Young called "Andalucia." That's why I decided to name this tote "Chocolate Covered Raspberry." It's just plain yummy! I couldn't decide which of the three fabrics to use on this Hang Up, so I changed around my pattern a little to incorporate all three into this tote. Rich browns, mossy greens, pumpkin oranges, russet reds and raspberry pinks combine to make this tote perfect for autumn!
Here are the rules for this give-away!
1.) The participants must live within the continental U.S. or Canada. I will provide the postage.
2.) Each person that makes a comment below will have her name entered into the contest.
3.) If you put a "shout out" on your blog about the contest, and come back and to give me a heads up I will enter your name two more times. (Trust me when I say it is worth it to add this shout-out. More often than not, these are the ladies that win!)
4.) No anonymous comments. Please leave an email address or blog that I can visit. Private bloggersmust leave their email address. If I don't have any way to contact you, your name will not be eligible.
5.) This tote is not meant for resale. Only those intending to use the tote for personal use may register to win.
This contest will run through midnight Wednesday, September 16th. Thursday morning, September 17th, the winner will be announced!
Every now and then I browse Etsy to look for a good find. This week I found JoliMarbleSwirls' shop. I bought three lovely items there for $6.95 each! They've already arrived and I love them. (See item at right.) Just beautiful and wonderful workmanship. There are so many fabulous finds on Etsy and, for me, it feels good to support these artisans.
I've decided to scout out favorite Etsy items every now and then and highlight them in a "Friday's Fabulous Finds" post. Hope you enjoy!
As you've heard by now, within a three week period two new souls join the ranks of our family...one in the form of a grandchild and the other a son-in-law. It's difficult to put into words how grateful I am for both of these events. I believe, pure and simple, a child to be God's most precious gift. That has certainly been true in the case of my children and grandchildren. Additionally, my daughters-in-law and sons-in-law are treasured gifts that have abundantly blessed and enriched my life. I am moved by the hearts ability to expand again and again to fully embrace, cherish and love each new family member.
What surprised me this week?
My family didn't play a lot of board games when I was a youngster, so I never became adept at them and in turn never enjoyed them much. Some might say I'm slightly competitive (possibly an understatement) and I rarely, if ever, won these games, so as I said they weren't much "fun" for me. Until now. Several months ago we purchased the board game "Ticket to Ride." It's the first board game I love. What surprised me thisweek is I beat the socks off my husband practically every time we played the game. And we played it often. I know pride is an undesirable quality in a person. It's unbecoming and rude. Still, victory is sooo sweet! (As my husband suggested, I will try to employ some humility in a few days. Just let me revel in my accomplishments for a time.)
What inspired me this week?
I'm often inspired by my blogging friends. I love reading blogs of all types. I am particularly drawn to blogs that inspire my creative side, but there are a few authors of blogs that I am loyal to that touch the recesses of my soul by their words. Carolynn's blog, A Glowing Ember, is one of those. She is a gifted writer who candidly shares her wisdom, her thoughts, and her views. She constructs stories much like a weaver forges her fabric -- layering her stories with rich colors and designs. She takes such thought and care with each of her posts, that after reading her blog for a little time you feel as if she's a time-honored friend. These last few weeks she's had a rough go of it. One of her beloved pets passed away. What inspired me this week was her comment after telling us of "Bear's" passing. She stated, "In the midst of all the heartbreak and tears, what consistently rises to the surface is a profound sense of gratitude and love." I am inspired by those who can rise above their heartache and show gratitude. What a noble characteristic to possess-- the ability to demonstrate gratitude in the face of sorrow -- so inspiring. Carolynn also shared this beautiful message by Brother David Steindl-Rast. His sentiments in this video are so calming and reassuring. I encourage you to listen...
This morning I felt in the mood to create. It's been awhile. Been busy with more important things. Still, creating is important to me. It's one of the things that brings pleasure and peace into my life, so it felt good to pick up a pair of scissors and hatch a new creation. I recently purchased this fabric. It's a Tina Givens creation from her Annabella line. It may be my favorite line at the moment. Love the mossy, rich, fall colors of this particular fabric and the fanciful, lively nature of the print. I've fallen in love and I might have to keep this one for myself...
In addition I felt in the mood for a little experimentation. I've seen totes similar to this one on the web and decided I would mix it up a bit and try a new pattern. I ended up changing the pattern totally (I'm just not very good at following directions and for some reason I feel the need to resize and reconfigure everything!), but I love the end result.
Love the detail of the button...
Love the rich russet oranges and mossy greens...
Love the metal closure...
Love how it matches the pillow in our family room...
Yes, indeed. I am in love with "Woodland Poppy"...
We've been on pins and needles -- waiting rather impatiently. I say the word "we" loosely. I realize I am mostly referring to our family. "We" have, however, been anxiously awaiting a little sneak peek of the photographs of the wedding reception held at our home a week ago. (Remember we had two different photographers: Amy for the photos right after the wedding and Angie for the photos of the reception.) It was a beautiful night -- quite enchanting, if I do say so myself. I was hoping that Angie, our reception photographer, could capture the beauty of the night. When you spend months working on the details, you hope that someone will notice and appreciate them. She did.
Let me introduce the photographer, Angie Wilson. She's amazing. Angie, of Angie Wilson Photography in Longmont (Colorado), is one talented photographer. Once you look at some of her photos, you'll have to agree. She and her husband, Jim, are an accomplished team. Jim recently quit his full time job in advertising to run the business side of their venture. With photos like these -- and Jim's expertise in advertising -- I know they will be very successful. As a side note, Angie and Jim were best friends in high school with one of my sons. It's so fun to see people that you knew as teenagers, grow up and develop such wonderful talents. Click here to go to Angie's blog and see a preview of some of her marvelous wedding photos...
It's been a month since I posted a Bloomin' Tuesday post. To say that August was a busy month for us is a gross understatement, however September has arrived and things are beginning to slow down, so I'm happy to have a few photos to share. We were out of town most of last week attending additional wedding festivities. We managed to travel to two states -- Utah and Georgia. On Sunday we came home from the east coast. We had attended a wedding reception for the bride and groom in Georgia hosted by the groom's family. I'd never been to Georgia and I was so impressed -- such a beautiful state. I flew home thinking that my garden, which had been flagrantly ignored for a week would be in shambles. I was pleasantly surprised. Temperatures have cooled and our garden has had a bit of a resurgence. I love it when this happens. The flowers seem to want to express their loveliness one last time before fall comes bustling in. Here is a sampling of what's happening in our garden this week:
Some annual (for Colorado) hibiscus still strutting their stuff..
and our delicious perennial hibiscus, "Luna Pink Swirl."
Bougainvillea and clematis are still gracing us with their vibrant colors...
and my impatiens are appreciating these cooler temps.
For more Bloomin' Tuesday posts, visit Ms. Green Thumb Jean's to see what's blooming in other areas of the country...
Next week I hope to get back to a little sewing, creating, and stitching, but I couldn't resist posting this photo of my granddaughter, Berkley. She gives the phrase a "peaches & cream complexion" new meaning!
Goodness me. It's been a whirlwind of a week. Our youngest was married on Saturday and we hosted their reception that night. Then on Monday we hopped into the car and drove to a neighboring state (Utah) for an Open House hosted by the groom's family. Yesterday we dropped off our son at college and we drove home today. This weekend we're off to Georgia for another Open House. We are a bit tuckered out, but it has all been wonderfully fun!
The above photo is a shot I took today of some of the wedding flowers. They were beautiful.Sarah, of Boulder's Painted Primrose, outdid herself and I will, hopefully, post a few more photos of her creations when we get back the photos from the photographer.
We had two photographers for the wedding. The first, Amy Wadlington, of True Photography in Littleton took photos right after the wedding ceremony, and the second, Angie Wilson, of Angie Wilson Photography in Longmont took photos at the reception. I can't wait to get all of the photos back. These are two very talented ladies, and I'm anxious to see the results of their hard work!
On Sunday Amy sent me a link to her blog to give us a sneak peek of some of her favorite photos of the bride and groom. I thought you might like to see them. I just love Amy's work. It's fresh, fun, playful and (most especially) beautiful! Check out her favorite photos of the day here and let me know what you think. Just scroll down to "Joe & Jillian - A Wedding."
I should be cleaning my house. Guests are arriving in six short hours. Instead I'm browsing blogs and fabric sights. It's a lot easier to do that than getting on hands and knees and spit shining my hardwood floors. You can related, I'm sure.
Er you all think that I have forgotten how to turn on my sewing machine, I thought I'd give you a teensy weensy preview of some fabrics for hang ups that I recently purchased. Oh yeah.
How I love the colors of autumn. Moss green, amber gold, pumpkin orange, brick red, eggplant purple, and, of course, chocolate brown. These colors speak to me. I recently purchased an array of fabrics in fall color palates and I'm looking forward to whipping up a few hang ups come mid Setpember. Might even have to have a give-away around that time. See what you think...
Can you relate? I can. We have a houseful of family arriving this week for the wedding festivities this weekend. As a result we are giving the house a good once over. I used to run a pretty tight ship when the kids were young. My house was spic and span back then. Now, not so much. These days I tend to put off the heavy duty cleaning until necessary. "Necessary" meaning -- until someone visits. Fortunately, we have visitors fairly often. Otherwise, I would be in trouble. Our first arrivals are due tomorrow. By Thursday night all of the family will have arrived. So excited. So very excited. Not only is there a wedding at the end of the week, but it will be the first time in over two years that our immediate family will all be together. Let the festivities begin!
I had a nice surprise this week. My daughter, the bride, and I arrived home from Omaha yesterday afternoon after helping with the new grandbaby for a week. I had very little contact with the internet while I was gone. This morning I opened my email and realized I had won a Soirre honey bun from Karen at Badlands Quilts. I squealed with delight. My husband was sitting next to me working on his computer and asked what the commotion was about. I responded that I had won a "honey bun." His eyebrows raised. I guffawed. All around I am one happy lady. Thank you, Karen, for such a wonderful surprise!
What moved me this week?
I had so many lovely moments this last week. There's nothing like a brand new baby to put life into perspective. Even with all the wedding preparations looming in the future and things waiting to get done here at home, nothing seemed more important than attending to that little one. He is an angel -- pure and simple. There were so many sweet tender moments while we were visiting, but the ones that moved me the most were when I caught my daughter mothering her little brood. She is such a kind, sweet mother. She shows so much patience and love toward her little boys. It is such a compelling experience to watch your children as they mother and father their own little ones so beautifully. To the left is a picture of my daughter and her newest little miracle. That picture alone moves me.
What inspired me this week?
I had a number of people respond to my Thankful Thursday post last week about what "inspired" me that week, but I had even more that responded by email. These blogging friends, who I've never met and who I don't know well, were so sweet to agree with my assessment that through God's help we can bear our burdens and endure our trials more easily. They related difficult experiences in their own lives when they felt the strength and encouragement that only the Savior can provide. I just wanted to thank those who shared their very personal thoughts with me. Your reflections and stories inspired me. Testimony truly gives us the eternal perspective necessary to go through and see past the challenges we inevitably face in this life.
Long before I jumped on the Thankful Thursday bandwagon, I wondered whether it was something to which I wanted to dedicate myself. I had always enjoyed reading the Thankful Thursday posts from friends and relatives who participated in this weekly journal. Their posts were often poignant and sweet, and I appreciated their willingness to share their personal experiences and feelings in a public forum. Still, I wondered if taking part in this weekly gratitude journal was something I wanted to take on, as I knew it would take more time and energy than my other quick posts.
What surprised me this week, was the realization of how much I look forward to writing this post each week. It's not that it has become easier or less time-consuming for me to write. It hasn't. I usually deliberate over what to write about for hours, but that quiet time spent pondering has been a blessing in itself. Examining my life and searching for the blessings evident in it, has made me more aware of all the ways -- both big and small -- we are blessed. It cheers one to spend even a small portion of one's week focusing on these positive thoughts!
What moved me this week?
Our seventh little grandchild, Charlie, was born on Monday, weighing in at 7 lbs. 8 oz.! Much too adorable for words. Moved to tears with gratitude. I'm so grateful for this little one and so thankful that his momma and he are doing well.
What inspired me this week?
I was sitting in Sunday School this week when I had a bit of an epiphany. Many of you have probably experienced this realization, but this subject became more clear to me at that time. The lesson was about overcoming life's trials, tribulations and heartaches. The thought was thrown out that God won’t let us be tempted or tried more than we can handle. I've heard that statement before, and it has always puzzled me. It certainly seems to me that some burdens are simply overwhelming and unbearable. There are certain circumstances where anyone if left on her own, no matter how strong or tenacious she might be, would buckled under the pressure of such grief and suffering. I've known people that have gone through this type of serious heartache and adversity. Without exception those who turned to God, allowed him into their lives, and learned to lean on him seemed to endure their trials with more ease. Not because of their own strength or fortitude or willpower, but because of God's strength, fortitude and willpower. I realized in that moment, that the reason God won't let us be tried more than we can bear, is because He can bear it all. If we allow him to lift our burdens, then we can truly endure anything. It was an inspiring realization.
Update: I wrote the above post on Monday night, a few days early, because I knew I would be going out of town on Tuesday morning to help my daughter and her family with their new baby. Tuesday morning my youngest daughter, the bride, and I were driving to eastern Nebraska on our way to the new baby's family, when we received a call from my son-in-law. During the night the baby had developed a potentially serious complication. Charlie had spit up bile and his stomach was distended. This occurrence almost always signifies some type of intestinal abnormality or problem that requires surgery. Charlie was transferred to the NICU unit, and Neonatal specialists were called in. Many tests were performed. After all the results of the tests had been gathered, the pediatrician looked my daughter in the eye and called the end result a "miracle." The baby was deemed perfectly healthy. The doctor said there was no scientific explanation for what had occurred. I am so grateful for miracles. I also believe in "tender mercies" from a loving Heavenly Father. I don't believe it was coincidence that I was given the insights in the previous paragraph so shortly before we faced our own trial. I'm grateful for His support and love during the trying times in our lives. I'm also grateful for miracles -- especially this new little miracle in our life.
First things first: Good news -- the baby arrived and mother and baby are doing beautifully! ;o) Happy Bloomin' Tuesday! This week while working in my garden, I was struck by all the beautiful colors and hues that are represented in my garden, so I thought I would create a few colorful collages for my Bloomin' Tuesday post this week. Hope you enjoy!
First and foremost I'm a wife, mother and grandmother who loves her family and likes to create. Join me as I explore my addiction for all things creative!
We've been invaded. A flock of owls has come to roost at our home... A few months ago my six-year-old granddaughter and I were br...
More posts...
Learn how you can transform an old TV stand into a brand new Treat Shop for children!
A s'mores table for a large group!
More s'mores! Here's an idea for a small gathering of friends!
Click here to download the pattern and instructions to make a monster appliqued tooth fairy pillow!
From start to finish, learn how to refinish {and how not to refinish!} a dining table.
Crossbody Owl Purse... find out how to get the pattern & tutorial
Tutorial for a cape for little girls who want to save the world!
My Snappy Bag tutorial gives step-by-step instructions on how to make this cute little pouch. It's a project that even a beginner sewer can master!
Chick-sicles! Learn how to make these rice-filled cooling pads for your children!
Make this easy project -- a grocery bag dispenser!
Learn how to create this herringbone accent wall!
Check out this easy ruffled pillow that anyone can make!
Make this adorable purse from a free online pattern and tutorial.
Learn how to make this pillow by using an easy quilting technique.
Click here to find out how to make this reusable Trick or Treat Bag. {Free pattern & tutorial!}
Animal jars -- so simple to make!
A flock of "Love Birds" descended on our house! Check out this post and find out how you can make a rice-filled heating pad for a child you love!
My "Ruffled Kindle Case" tutorial is up and running. Just click here to find out how to make one for yourself or someone you love!
Maggie the Taggie Owl... the tutorial and pattern for a cute taggie blanket is available!
Our Art Gallery... display children's artwork in a fun, creative way!
Click to find out how to receive the pattern to make this gorgeous Camellia-like fabric flower pattern!
Click here to be directed to a tutorial for this Childs Play Tent!
Click here to learn how to make a similar iPad Case!
Click here for a tutorial on a ric-rac edged receiving blanket!
Need a baby shower gift? Click here to find a tutorial on how to make these easy and inexpensive baby burp cloths!
Go here to find out how to receive this beautiful sunflower pattern!
Get the free pattern and tutorial by clicking on the picture!
Click here for a tutorial on how to applique on fabric...!
Click on the photo to find out how to make and receive the pattern and tutorial for this cute pocket bib!
The free pattern and tutorial for this "Trick or Treat Bag" for the little ghost or goblin in your life can be yours -- click here!
Click on the photo to be taken to a tutorial on how to recover a lamp shade.
Click here to find the tutorial and pattern for my "Snap Trap" Wallet for kids & adults!
Two-Toned Tote! Click here to be directed to the pattern and tutorial. Also, find out how to make a sturdy, well-crafted tote!
Bunting Cosmetic Bag Tutorial ... find out how to make this cute cosmetic bag!
A diaper and wet-wipe case... click here to find out how to receive my Dwipe Pattern and Tutorial!
Lil' Boy Car Caddy :: Need a little something to keep your toddler busy? Follow these instructions to make this car caddy for the student driver in your life!
Store anything in these beautiful fabric baskets!
Need an idea for a gift for a little one. Try this easy-to-make crayon caddy. The tutorial is a click away!
Copyright Policies...
Feel free to link to posts on my blog, but please only include one picture. Then I would ask that you link back to my blog and include the name of my blog in your post. Please do not reproduce my content or tutorials, in any language, without my explicit permission even if your intention is not to profit from it. The material at "Just Another Hang Up" blog is copyrighted. Thank you!
Terms of Use: Free Patterns & Tutorials
Feel free to use items made from my tutorials for personal use, gifts or you may make one for a charity/fundraising event. Items made using my tutorials are not to be sold for profit. Please contact me for clarification or requests above and beyond these limitations. Also, my patterns and tutorials are not to be copied and distributed or sold for profit. My patterns and tutorials are copyrighted. Thank you for respecting my wishes.
I'm truly honored. CSI chose my "Smith Art Gallery" as one of their Top 10 Projects of 2010!
I made the cut in the "Neighborhood Gift Challenge!" Thank you for featuring my organic facial scrubs as one of your favorites!
My wood button pillow made the Top 10 at the CSI Pillow Challenge!
CSI Lampshade Challenge... thank you, Jen, for picking my recovered lampshade as your favorite in the CSI Lampshade Challenge!
