Little Hands Warm Heart

Baking…

2010-11-04T20:42:00.001-08:00

I’ve been baking up some ideas for some quilts, trying my hand at design. I’ll share when I figure out how to convince my husband it’s a good idea to have tons of quilts in the house. I mean we do live in Alaska and it is winter time. But I digress….

I’ve also been working on some other types of baking….Baking of the human sort.

Yes…that type of baking. Which is why when everyone else was posting Halloween pictures, I was working on my glow. Our little Bug (as in June Bug) is due in you guessed it, June. But I also have some pictures of our little monkey from Halloween. I may be biased but I think she’s the cutest monkey ever. Curious George eat your heart out. :)

Freda

Pure Boy Quilt

2010-10-26T13:29:00.001-08:00

I finished my baby boy quilt a week ago and I thought I had shared with you. But I didn’t. I’m sorry. I was also trying to be a little secretive incase the recipient was being sneaky and checking in on me. But here it is…

I’m sure you may have seen it on flickr if you are part of the Fresh Modern Quilts group. But as far as the specs. I used Oh Fransson’s Charm Square Quilt pattern on my Pure Charm pack paired with Kona Cotton in Chocolate. Complete with straight line quilting. I really hope the new owner enjoys it. So what have you been working on?

Freda

Citrus Star

2010-10-21T15:54:00.001-08:00

Things like this are making me neglect my poor house.

But in my defense, being crafty is way more fun. The husband on the other had will probably not agree. He’s been away to Anchorage for the week and well, our house looks like it’s been taken over by a 20 month old. Her toy corner has now spread to the entire living room and well, there is a sink full of dishes that need to be washed, mostly sippy cups may I add.

The Citrus Star is for the Scrappy Hoops swap, I wasn’t sure how it was going to turn out with the colors but I’m glad I went with it. The name? Well, turns out the Kona cotton solids were Tangerine and Lime.

Well, maybe I should get some housework done. I’m sure my husband would appreciate a clean house more than an awesome craft. Then again…

Freda

Yummy-ness

2010-10-19T20:36:00.001-08:00

I found this in my mailbox today…Some yummy fabrics from Pink Chalk Fabrics fall clearance sale and some Heather Bailey Fresh Cut Scraps I found on etsy.

The huge stash is for the Scrappy Hoops swap. I hope you like partner. :)

And speaking of swappies…sign ups are on now over at the Pillow Talk Round 4 Flickr Group. Visit Heather's blog for sign up details.

Freda

Swappy Swap

2010-10-08T13:30:00.001-08:00

Hi! I’ve been absent for a while. Maybe I’m not so good at blogging…But I wanted to let you know about a new swap over on flickr.

I’m sure you have heard about Heather at {House} of A La Mode, if not she runs a ton of swaps on flickr. The current one is the Scrappy Hoops one. Sign ups run until today. So if you want to play visit flickr and sign up. Here is my inspiration for my partner.

I can’t get my links back to the proper people to work, so please click the mosaic to get linked to the flickr image with credits.

I hope to see you guys in the swap. So what are you working on now?

Freda

The Speed of Life

2010-09-22T15:51:00.001-08:00

Yeah, that should about cover it. I have been working on my mug rugs, a Christmas Tree Skirt for the family, the Quilt as you go quilt along, stocking up my etsy shop and quality family time (including Saylor). Sorry I’ve avoided you guys so long. But life has been hectic lately. And now it’s time to go play mommy again. See you soon!

Freda

Life is Hard

2010-09-14T23:20:00.001-08:00

Especially for this guy….

Bodie, our resident tamed Alaskan wildcat (or so he thinks), is our entertainer. I have never seen a cat sit at a window and cackle/hiss at a bald eagle. Of course, I never lived in an area where bald eagles perched in your back yard until last summer.

But life must be hard when you can fully relax like this…

Freda

Weekend Plans

2010-09-10T21:45:00.001-08:00

I finished up my Mug Rug for the swap. I hope my partner likes it.

Sydney had to hold it in the pictures. Lest it jump up and run away. Oh the back…sure I can show you the back.

And now I’m working on my Quilt As You Go Quilt Along blocks. I’m actually cheating. I’m using a batik jelly roll and slicing and dicing it up. I’m almost finished with the first block and I’m quite pleased with how it’s turning out.

So, what are your weekend plans?

Freda

Stalking

2010-09-04T13:28:00.001-08:00

I am currently stalking someone. My Scrappy Mug Rug Swap partner of course. I already have tons of ideas, I just need to get them onto paper and see how they will look to the scale I need.

So if my partner is stalking me…I’ll try to be more consistent on posting so you can see what I’m like. :)

What swaps are you guys in right now?

Freda

Hold the Phone…She’s got a cannon.

2010-09-02T09:21:00.001-08:00

I love that part of Dodgeball. But seriously, Squirt is rocking a cannon! She was playing with the dog’s tennis balls last night and managed to launch one across the room.

I think we may have an tiny athlete. :)

Freda

Scrappy Mug Rug Swap

2010-08-29T21:50:00.001-08:00

If you are an active flickr user, signups are going on now. Visit the group for sign up info. Sign ups run until tonight (August 30), so get hopping everyone.

Here is my inspiration mosaic, (a first for me)

1. dqs9 - look at those points, 2. Pillow for Urban Home Goods Swap, 3. YIP 365.250 :: Tuesday pillow , 4. Victoria's Block, 5. DQS9 prior to binding, 6. star mug rug, 7. a scrappy mug rug, 8. Mug Rug for UHGS, 9. mug rug

I hope to see some of you there!

Freda

Accuquilt Go Giveaways!

2010-08-25T09:29:00.001-08:00

Right now, Heather at A La Mode Fabric and KarrieLyne at Freckled Whimsy are each giving away an Accuquilt Go. I don’t know about you but I want this puppy. :) Go enter if you haven’t already.

Freda

Wordless Wednesday #5

2010-08-25T09:23:00.001-08:00

Freda

Not so….Wordless Wednesday #4

2010-08-19T15:51:00.001-08:00

I know I missed it again….But I’ve been busy again. I told you that I had a birthday in July, but not what I got for it. I got a Blythe doll.

Ella to be exact. I named her that, she is actually a Good Neighbor Cafe. Then I bought….

Piper. and these 2 little Muses inspired me to create clothing for them. And so for the last month I have been working dilgently to make items for my shop on Etsy. The culmination is the 34 pictures I just uploaded to my computer including the 2 above. Once I resize them and set prices I’ll get them in the shop. But I’ll give you a quick sneak peak.

Freda

Wordless Wednesday #2 & #3

2010-08-12T12:18:00.001-08:00

One word…house guest. Sorry for being away for so long.

By the way…while I was gone, Saylor took 2nd place for best trick and prettiest coat in Valdez’s Gold Rush Days. I’m so proud of my doggie. :)

Freda

I’m Featured!

2010-07-30T08:36:00.001-08:00

AnneMarie over at GXQ has featured me today. So pop over and check it out.

And if your coming from GXQ feel free to stick around and see what’s going on here.

Freda

Wordless Wednesday #1

2010-07-28T20:01:00.001-08:00

I just wanted to try something out for a while. Hope you enjoy.

Freda

Before I’m 26

2010-07-23T23:26:00.001-08:00

I know I just turned 25. But I want to accomplish a few things before I turn 26. Kinda a New Years Goal list thingy…

Run in a 5k. (I’m not much of a runner lol)
Take better care of myself (ie drop some lbs)
Get Pregnant with Baby #2 (Long Story)

I’m sure there’s more. Wait a minute 1 and 3 contradict themselves. Ahh details. :)

Thanks for all the birthday wishes. I got in touch with everyone I had an email for. And Shana won the giveaway. (It’s in the mail now Shana.)

Freda

25

2010-07-19T13:32:00.001-08:00

So tomorrow is my birthday (read a giveaway post) and I’ve never dreaded a birthday…until this one. For some reason beyond me….I’m dreading turning 25. Maybe it’s because I see myself as a mom, wife and homemaker at 25 and my college friends are single, childless and starting their careers. For my birthday, I’m staying in and having a nice afternoon with the family. And my friends are renting out martini lounges for their 25th. But anyway…onto the giveaway…that’s why your here!

For your consideration…..

Yes… that is 4 fat quarters from Kate Spain’s 12 Days of Christmas.

You want them? Well all you have to do is:

Leave me a cheery chatty comment. It is my birthday after all.
Become a follower of the blog. Or if you already follow me leave a little note letting me know.

Make sure to leave a note for each and you can get 2 chances to win. I will take comments until noon Thursday July 22 Alaska Time. And if your international, you can enter too! So get to some comment love. :)

Freda

Works in Progress

2010-07-09T14:08:00.001-08:00

I’m starting early on Christmas items. Especially with this.

That will be this soon. I can’t wait! But I must because I still need to quilt this…

It’s called the Coast Guard Star quilt block from Quilters Cache. I on the other hand am going to make it into a mini quilt and on the back place a tag for each place the Coast Guard sends us during my husband’s career. I’m only 4 stations behind. :)

Well, I think naptime is coming to an end so I’m gonna go play mommy for the next few hours. Bye!

Freda

The Process Pledge

2010-07-08T10:44:00.001-08:00

I know alot of the blogs I read are joining in and I took the plunge too. I’m not an excellent quilter and I think by everyone seeing my mess before the finished project will boost some self esteem.

I joined in here. I’ll post up some pictures of my current projects when Sydney is taking her nap.

Freda

Sydney’s Teepee

2010-06-26T11:21:00.001-08:00

Well Sydney’s teepee has been used and abused the last 24 hours. I purchased this pattern at my local quilt shop and it was well worth the purchase price. The pattern is for the teepee, sleeping bag and the stuff sack for the sleeping bag.

And it’s not hard at all. The hardest part was fitting the 2 10ft sections of pvc pipe into my Subaru Impreza. (I was a sight to see in the hardware store parking lot) And the added perk? When you get tired of looking at it, take it down for a couple of days and it’ll be like a new toy.

Also, I paid roughly $45 to make this guy. To buy it I’ve found teepees for up to $300 dollars, seriously. And the cat loves it too.

Freda

Best. Mom. EVER.

2010-06-25T15:10:00.001-08:00

I’d like to think so anyway….

Not only does Sydney enjoy amazing scenery like this…

She has a cool new playhouse like this….

Yep…I feel like the best mom ever right now.

Freda

I’m not a bad blogger

2010-06-24T21:06:00.001-08:00

I’ve just been really busy. At the beginning of June, my in-laws informed my husband and I that they would be visiting in 2 weeks. So I spent that time attacking my home like a crazy person. I never got around to spring cleaning until then.

I don’t think that I’ve cleaned that much since I was nesting.

And now, my in-laws have left 2 days ago and I’ve still neglected my blog. I’ve visited all my blogs that I read and entered numerous giveaways. Right now this may be my favorite…

Photo by Deb Robertson

Deb at Works In Progress is giving away this quilt. She made it with vintage pillowcases and isn’t it just yummy? Visit and leave some comment love.

And I want to share this picture from my last few days.

Pardon Me

2010-06-12T23:44:00.001-08:00

I’m working on redesigning the blog so please pardon my dust.

Freda

Finished…Finally

2010-06-12T10:35:00.001-08:00

So I joined in on Rachel's Pinwheel Sampler Quilt Along back in February. I finished my quilt last night…only 2 months or so behind everyone else. So for your viewing pleasure…I present my new favorite blankie.

It was made using a Nest by Tula Pink layer cake, the backing was from the same collection as well. And right now it’s in the washer getting that crinkly goodness we all expect in a handmade quilt.

Wow..2 blogs in one day…I’m on a roll. :)

Freda

AccuQuilt giveaway!!!

2010-06-12T10:11:00.001-08:00

Amy’s Creative Side is giving away that!!! So go visit, leave comment love and try to win it, I know I am. :)

Freda

Big Girl Toddler Bed

2010-06-11T13:16:00.001-08:00

Not so much….After an hour of transitioning my daughter’s crib to the toddler bed this is what we had….

A generally happy child. And she stayed that way until naptime….Now there my child has been replaced by some evil hateful being. The sad thing is I don’t know if it’s the “I-don’t want-a-nap” fit or “I hate this bed now” fit. But for now the cries have subsided and I think I won.

I also wanted to showcase my work. :) I made the pillow using the Cushion Couture tutorial and I have a couple more in the making. The quilt you guys have already seen and of course everything is made using Hunky Dory. I think I may be in love…I’ll definitely be heart broken when they discontinue it.

Yesterday, I had a moment of weakness. You see, after 16 months, I’m still not happy with my new mommy body. I have a tummy pouch and my hips are huge. Oh the results of having a 10 lb 4 oz baby. After 9 months of that weight on my hips, I’ve resigned to the fact that I will possibly always have a wide load below the waist. But it still doesn’t make it any easier.

Freda

A New Diet

2010-06-10T15:03:00.001-08:00

When I was pregnant, I assumed 9 months on, 9 months off for my weight gain. How wrong was I! My daughter is now 16 months old and I haven’t lost it all. So, I’m trying something new….something radical. Remember being in college and only being able to afford Ramen Noodles and water? Oh yeah…and then loosing weight and looking fabulous because you were broke?

Introducing the Broke College Student Diet…

I guess it’s worth a try. It worked 5 years ago……

Freda

Big Girl Quilt

2010-06-08T13:38:00.001-08:00

The half finished quilt top you saw yesterday….

Is now a completed quilt.

Let’s just say mommy is running on little sleep right now. But to go with it….I’m going to make these!!! I love the pillows that Julie and John designed. And I think that they will make Sydney’s little toddler daybed perfect.

Freda

Viruses or Viri?

2010-06-07T15:50:00.001-08:00

I’m not really sure what the plural of virus is. But any who… Something a virus i think got into my email. So if you have gotten an email from me with like a Canadian pharmacy link. I am sorry. I don’t know how it happened because I have never used an online pharmacy.

I am also sorry for neglecting you. :( I didn’t mean to, I’ve just been taking advantage of the surplus of sunshine here in AK. I mean I really need to stockpile the Vitamin D, 8 months of virtual winter really depletes my stock.

Potty training is still going strong. And Sydney is loving the “big girl” diapers. I really hope that she loves this.

It’s a disappearing nine patch using a hunky dory layer cake. I only have 4 of 7 rows here. It’s part of her Big Girl Quilt for her toddler bed. She’s still in her crib for now but we will be transitioning soon to the toddler bed. Kids really do grow up fast don’t they?

I think she may even be interested in photography. She loves my cameras.

Freda

Adventures in Potty Training

2010-05-28T12:21:00.001-08:00

Well, Sydney started potty training on Monday. As of now, we have made poopy and pee pee in the potty. Not always regularly but we have done it and it’s a start.

I’m sticking it to the man too….she’s only 16 months…eat that diaper companies. :) Oh I see the light at the end of the diaper tunnel and that light looks good. :)

Fun Weekends are Too Short

2010-05-23T16:53:00.001-08:00

Yeah, they are. We have been to Keystone Canyon to see waterfalls…

To see the unfinished railroad tunnel

We’ve rode 4 wheelers and Sydney even got to go swimming for the first time.

Today we visited the Old Valdez Town Site. Valdez was originally located 4 miles east of it’s current location. It was relocated after the Good Friday Earthquake of 1964 and it’s subsequent tsunamis destroyed the town. This was one of the largest earthquakes on record at 10.4.

It’s amazing how much stuff is still out at the town site from the disaster.

These are just a few of the things I found today; a forklift, a pump and an upside down truck axle.

Overall, a WONDERFUL (sunny at that) weekend with the family.

Freda

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner!

2010-05-20T21:17:00.001-08:00

Yes, we have a winner! But first, I want to say:

Thank you!!!

To everyone who came by my blog, and those of you who visited my shop and especially those of you who became followers. I do hope you will stick around.

Drum Roll Please…….

And the winner is….

Turtle

I will be contacting you by email to get your snail mail address. Good luck to everyone else on the other giveaways you’ve entered. I know I still have my fingers crossed. :)

Thanks everyone!

2010-05-20T12:54:00.001-08:00

Well if you haven’t already, go here to enter the giveaway. It ends in about 8 hours. And if you have, THANKS SO MUCH! I have enjoyed reading everyone’s comments and finding so many great new blogs.

It’s naptime which is prime crafting time for me, so I’m going to go start working on Sydney’s big girl toddler blanket for when we change her crib to a toddler bed. And then there’s my Pinwheel Sampler quilt that still isn’t finished, my husbands hourglass quilt, and my Modern Siggy Swap Blocks I need to finish. Oy. I need to get crackin.

Freda

Giveaway Day!

2010-05-16T09:28:00.001-08:00

Yes, SMS giveaway day is here and it has reached Little Hands Warm Heart. For your giveaway I present….

One fabulous cover for your e-reader. It’s made using the specs for my nook, but I would think it would work with an Amazon kindle just as well since they are roughly the same size. But, if you don’t have an e-reader, it would make a great little cosmetics travel bag.

You want more pictures? Sure!

The inside is quilted with wonky lines and has a snap closure.

But that’s not all folks! I will also include 3 fat quarters from my stash for you. All three fat quarters are from the Birdie collection. :)

Now, for the rules:

Your international? Sure try your luck!
The winner will be chosen by random.
This giveaway is open until May 20, 2010 at 9:00pm Alaska time (one full hour behind PST)
Make sure I can contact you, ie you email in your profile or leave it with your comment. Make sure to space it out though to avoid spammers.
I will ship the cover to the lucky winner by May 24!

To enter you need to leave some comment love for me on this post. For additional entries:

Become a follower.
Go to my shop and tell me which item you like.
Donate to my Relay for Life campaign, for each $5 you donate you get one entry. You can click the button to the right under About Me for the donation page.

Just make sure to leave a comment for each additional entry. Good luck!

Freda

a name is a name is a name

2010-05-15T14:47:00.001-08:00

Hey everybody! I never really explained the mouthful of a name here are LHWH. It’s actually named for this little wonder:

When she was born, despite huge chubby cheeks, she had the most tiny hands. And she was like a little space heater, so obviously she had a very warm heart. Hence, Little Hands, Warm Heart.

We moved to Alaska when she was 4 months old (thanks US Coast Guard) and as an effort to connect with people outside Alaska I started this blog. It’s now filled with Squirt stories and photos as it should be. She’s my muse.

Freda

Dead, D-E-A-D, Dead.

2010-05-13T21:00:00.001-08:00

My old computer that is…. We had a good 2 year run, but alas my hard drive died taking with it the last month and a half of college applications, admissions essays, budgets, pictures, blog post….well you get the picture.

So I’m writing this on my new computer, a Toshiba Satellite L505 with Windows 7. I’m still not so sure about this new OS, but I’ll keep working with it, give a full report in a couple of days. Until then, I need to add some items to my shop, get pictures of my SMS Giveaway item, and get this computer where the old one was. I have still only added iTunes to this, next up – Skype.

Freda

Happy….Belated…Mother’s Day

2010-05-10T12:51:00.001-08:00

What? I’m a mom, wasn’t I supposed to have a day off too? I got a beautiful necklace from my husband and daughter and a peaceful afternoon with the family. We did visit the May Day Fly-in here in town.

We saw the skydivers

And Sydney learned about how awesome Capri Sun’s are.

Today, I joined my first block swap. Julie over at Jaybird Quilts is hosting round 2 of the Modern Siggy Swap. You can sign up too! Just go right here. And while your there, grab up the neat little button featuring Karrielyne’s blocks.

Freda

O Happy Day!!

2010-05-08T14:14:00.001-08:00

So I went to the post office this morning and waiting in my box was a little slip that said…”sorry we missed you” . So I went into the office and to my suprise…a tiny box for me.

But what’s inside the tiny box you ask? Why this little piece of vintage photo equipment…

That’s right, I’m officially a Ttv photographer. My little Kodak Duaflex IV took this picture right off the bat

Of course I haven’t built a little dark box contraption yet but this is so exciting. A whole new world opened up to me today.

If you want to learn more about ttv (through the viewfinder) photography a good place to start (and see better examples) is here on flickr.

I’ll post little tidbits as I learn and I hope you’ll share little tidbits with me.

Freda

Technorati Tags: Duaflex,ttv photography

Can you hear them?

2010-05-07T20:55:00.001-08:00

I live in Valdez, AK and each year the town holds the May Day Fly-in. Bush pilots from all over the world gather here and show off their birds and compete in a flour bombing contest, and shortest take off and landing competitions. This being my first May in Valdez is my first Fly-in so my daughter and I may travel out to the airport to join in the small town festivities. Take my camera you ask? Of course! I may even get to use my new little 70-200mm lens!

But on the subject of cameras…I just checked the tracking for my most recent eBay purchase. A Kodak Duaflex IV!! And it’s here! But I have to wait until 9am to go pick it up from the post office. I can’t wait to get started with some TTV Photography. I’ll add my ~~flops~~ attempts to my flickr.

So I signed up for the Sew Mama Sew giveaway day. Still have no clue what I’m giving away but I have a pretty good idea. Hope to see you back before the giveaway though.

Freda

Technorati Tags: Alaska,Flickr

It’s Coming!!

2010-05-06T15:10:00.001-08:00

The ladies over at Sew Mama Sew are at it again. On May 17, they are hosting May Giveaway day! Ok everyone say it with me….YAYYYYY!!!! Everyone loves giveaways, don’t act like you don’t. I think this time I’ll participate in the giving as well as the taking. Now, to come up with an item to giveaway.

Spring is Finally here

2010-05-05T13:23:00.001-08:00

In Alaska that is. And that is why I’ve been away so long. My husband was lucky enough to get a week off of work so we spent it together as a family.

I of course got some great pictures in the mean time.

Of father-daughter conversations over sidewalk chalk…

Our loyal guard dog Saylor

Of course not all of the time was spent outside, I completed a baby quilt using the Verna quilt kit.

But the most exciting thing happened today! I finally got my books from Crafters Choice Book Club. It only took 2 1/2 weeks so you can probably sense my excitement.

Unfortunately though, the local fabric shop (the only one within 300 miles of me mind you) has been closed the last 4 days. Which is putting me behind on my Pinwheel sampler Quilt along over at PS I Quilt. We are supposed to be basting, quilting and binding this week and I can’t get any batting. Grrrrr….

Technorati Tags: Verna,Completed Quilts,Spring,Family

Puddles

2010-04-24T22:50:00.001-08:00

Well… slowly but surely the snow is melting. Leaving huge pond sized puddles in its wake. Puddles that Sydney could swim in….

Or at least ruin her new shoes in…

But then again…. who can resist this little face…

Freda

Technorati Tags: Snow,Family,Shoes

Be Still My Little Southern Heart

2010-04-22T13:08:00.001-08:00

I am not an Alaskan…at all. In fact, I am a transplanted Cheerwine drinking, country ham eating North Carolinian. I grew up in the foothills of NC and well you can’t get either of the before mentioned items here. Actually, I’m pretty sure you can’t get them west of the Mississippi or north of the Mason Dixon to be honest.

And thanks to this little care package from the little town of Yadkinville I really miss home today. Even the dreaded yellow pollen that is currently engulfing my sleepy hometown. But for now….this little slice of heaven can bring me close enough, without the pollen.

Freda

The Secret is in the Sauce

2010-04-13T14:31:00.001-08:00

But the cat’s out of the bag…the girls over at SITS are doing a new giveaway every hour! Join us in the giveaway madness! I’m just hoping that lady luck is on my side today.

They also have a GRAND PRIZE GIVEAWAY valued at over $200 dollars. Including a painted portrait of you, custom invites (come on I know a lot of you are pregnant out there and need some cute baby announcements soon), a full blog makeover, 2 months of ad space and a $50 Amazon gift card (who can’t use that?).

So join us and if your lucky…win stuff.

Freda

Fun with Food

2010-04-06T22:03:00.001-08:00

My daughter has been in a banana mood lately. But before we she decided to be bananas for bananas, we had fun with food so she would eat it. Making things like this….

Please forgive the mess in the background. When Sydney is awake my house is pretty much declared a disaster zone. And remains so until she goes to bed for the night.

Another great idea I found in a kids recipe book is to make tuna salad sandwiches shaped like fish. It looks like that is next on the list because the love of tuna seems to waver with her.

What do you do to get your kids to eat certain foods? I know fun with food is working way better than my parents “You can’t leave the table until you eat ______”.

Technorati Tags: Food,Family

Wishing and Hoping and Praying…

2010-04-04T20:16:00.001-08:00

Of all days to only have this on my mind. My husband and I have been trying to get pregnant for the last 4 months to no avail. Which is starting to wear on me, as our first was a bit of a surprise and no waiting was involved in getting pregnant. That and it seems as if everyone I know is getting pregnant.

I feel as if this is my fault, my doctor told me after Sydney’s birth that I shouldn’t have been able to get pregnant then. So now, here I am wishing and hoping and praying for the chance to have another baby.

Freda

I should be cleaning….

2010-04-02T14:04:00.001-08:00

But it’s so nice outside. Despite the feet of snow still on the ground.

Yep, if you ever wondered why no one visits Alaska in the winter…. that’s it. I live in Valdez, a town notorious for 300+ inches of snowfall a year. And here we are April 2 with that much still on the ground. It’s not this bad outside of town and snow has mostly disappeared everywhere else. So everyone else out there in blog land, KEEP POSTING SPRING PICTURES!!! It’s the only thing keeping this transplanted southerner sane. I am really missing beautiful spring weather and daffodils blooming right now.

Well, for now, I should get back to cleaning before Mini-me wakes up from her nap. Or nothing will be accomplished until her bed time.

P.S. I haven’t forgotten about that giveaway. I actually am planning a trip to the fabric shop today, maybe I’ll pick up something there.

Freda

Bodie

2010-03-31T21:55:00.001-08:00

We have a new member of the family now. His name is Bodie and he completes our 3 ring circus perfectly. He was adopted at Valdez Animal Shelter and is around a year old.

Bodie is our second animal shelter rescue, our first being Saylor the ~~incorrigible~~, ~~overbearing~~, incredibly loving Lab. Who made sure to give Bodie the lay of the land today.

So far, there has not been a civil war in the house. And for now, it’s “All Quite on the Northern Front”.

I won!

2010-03-27T21:06:00.001-08:00

I won the Disney Blu-ray combo pack of The Princess and the Frog from Sugar Pop Ribbons. Jen over at Sugar Pop Ribbons always has great giveaways going. Current giveaways include: Slimware Plates, amykathryn bag, and a Beco Baby Carrier.

I typically never win anything so this came as a complete surprise this morning. My daughter and I had a chance to borrow this DVD from a friend and we both love it. Anything that can keep a 13 month olds attention is a keeper in my book. I am impatiently waiting for its delivery.

I think someone else may be too. What is the best giveaway you’ve won? Or what would you like to win? I’m planning a new giveaway soon and would love some ideas.

Technorati Tags: giveaways

Cherry Lemonade

2010-03-11T14:50:00.001-09:00

I just finished posting my newest creation in the shop. I am getting really addicted to bright springy colors, maybe it’s because of the lack of color right now in AK. My back door has about 5.5 feet of snow at it right now. I can’t wait until the summer when we get 20 some hours of daylight.

I guess everyone in the lower 48 is getting into spring time now, how I loathe you. No…I’m just kidding. I am jealous though. Well I guess I will leave you with some pictures of my newest creation.

Technorati Tags: Nook Case,new items

Finished…..Finally

2010-03-09T12:09:00.001-09:00

After 4 months of cutting and sewing, I’m finished. I made this quilt using Another Brick in the Wall by Carolina Patchworks. It was for my youngest brother in law for his Christmas, birthday and graduation present. It was made with the Arcardia collection from Moda.

Forgive the horrible lighting in the picture of the whole quilt, we haven’t seen the sun here in Valdez for a few days thanks to the latest blizzard.

Technorati Tags: Finished Quilt,Another Brick in the Wall

Spring Cleaning

2010-03-07T22:26:00.001-09:00

So have you started yet? I just have. I took a few minutes during the Oscar’s commercial breaks to organize my desktop. Yep, just starting small. Well maybe that’s an understatement, it was quite full of random things. Of course it was to avoid more tedious jobs but hey, I’m a mom and I want a break!

This also gives me time to think about new items for my long neglected Etsy Shop. Like a nifty case for your Nook, Kindle or similar sized e-reader using a tutorial by Christina at the Sometimes Crafter.

Neat little guy isn’t he? Look for different fabrics in my etsy shop soon. Another goal for March, try to post here more regularly. What helps you stay on top of blogging regularly?

Technorati Tags: Nook Case

Amazing What A Little Steam Can Do

2010-03-01T20:58:00.001-09:00

This is the first pieced block I have ever made actually pressing before and after sewing. And the points matched! That’s a first for me! I guess it leaves something to be said about taking your time to get everything pressed.

What’s the best tip you’ve learned through trial and error?

It’s here!

2010-02-17T18:07:00.001-09:00

Yes! After much waiting and anticipation, my Nook is here! Unfortunately, Valdez is 6 hours away from the nearest 3G hotspot so downloading the update to the 1.2 software took quite sometime. But it’s so cool, I think I’ll be spending more time reading now. If I have sparked your interest, visit Nook online at the Barnes and Noble website to get your own. Well off to play with my Nook for now.

Slacker…

2010-02-16T18:15:00.001-09:00

I feel like such a slacker. I haven’t been posting as much as I would like to. But my little Squirt will be 1 on Friday. Oh how time flies by! For now all I can offer you is some bright photos of her birthday flowers. All of which you can see over at Flickr.

Technorati Tags: photos,flowers

It’s been a while…

2010-01-20T23:10:00.001-09:00

but my 11 month old has been keeping me busy! But to tide you over…here’s some pictures of the great white north!

Yes, salt water does freeze. This is at the town boat ramp. And this is my lovely husband tempting fate…

New Year, New Look

2010-01-04T23:17:00.001-09:00

I am very slowly teaching myself how to use GIMP. It’s like photoshop, another program I am grossly uneducated about. Well my new banner was project one. I like it, but I think my 10 month old daughter could do better.

Anyway, I added some passport covers to my shop. I love the green daisies and I hope someone else will too, I’m still waiting on my first sale.

Technorati Tags: passport cover,Etsy

Last to See a New Year

2009-12-31T20:12:00.001-09:00

Yep, well, other than the folks down in Hawaii. It’s only 8 pm here in Alaska while 4000 miles away in NYC and the rest of the east coast Champagne toast are happening. But, where ever you are tonight, may your new year be happy, healthy and bright!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-24T23:24:00.001-09:00

Merry Christmas everyone! Well, Santa is in Anchorage according to the NORAD Santa tracker, so I better get check on the little one before getting myself in bed. I can’t wait to see what great presents are under the tree in the morning!

Etsy Shop Go!

2009-12-21T22:30:00.001-09:00

Finally, I had time to list some items in the shop. You can follow the link to your right to make it there now. I am hoping to get some more items up soon so keep checking back.

But for now, back to the continued hustle and bustle of the holidays! Happy Holidays to everyone!

So, I’m in love!

2009-12-11T16:27:00.001-09:00

With Patty Young’s fabric collection Flora & Fauna! On Wednesday she revealed her 2010 patterns, which are set for release mid January. I first stumbled across her blog and fabric line while trying to win giveaways through Sew Mama Sew’s giveaway day. She gave away 3 pillows all based on one of her patterns for 2010. If you haven’t seen them and are interested, don’t bother googleing it. Just check out her blog.

Finished!

2009-12-07T23:52:00.001-09:00

I finally finished my first free motion quilt. And I love free motion quilting! This was made for one of my friends here in Alaska. I hope she loves it! Let me know what you think.

On another note, congrats to all the giveaway winners in the Sew Mama Sew Giveaway day! I won the Green Bag Lady’s take one, make one giveaway of her totes. I’ll have pictures posted for that as soon as I get my tote in the mail!

Coffee Freebie!

2009-12-04T08:19:00.001-09:00

If your addicted to coffee and it’s many flavors and love free stuff like me you will love the deal I clicked on this morning. It’s only for the first 25000 fans so hop to! Become a fan of International Delight on Facebook and get a coupon for a FREE 16oz creamer! Best news yet, you can print it twice! So hop to, and get your freebie and coffee fix now!

Giveaway Day!

2009-12-02T00:19:00.001-09:00

For someone just starting out I love giveaway days! I mean who doesn’t love a freebie? The folks over at Sew Mama Sew! are hosting their giveaway day on Dec 2. Click on over and check out the list of bloggers just like me who are giving away handcrafted items, supplies and some are even giving away both! The list is broken down into those who ship internationally and those who ship domestically for our friends outside the US.

On a side note, I was looking through the giveaway pages and came across the Green Bag Lady’s blog. If your starting to go green, start with her! She offers a pattern for her bag that even a beginner can do. Or you can enter into her giveaway! She’s awarding 100 people with a bag and a fabric kit to make one for a friend! So click on over to her blog, you can find a link to the right or save some time and visit her right now. I’ve entered but even if I don’t win, I’ll be making a bag and showing off my results right here!

Christmas Gift Project

2009-11-27T23:02:00.001-09:00

So one Christmas gift has been on my craft table for a few days now. I got the idea while flipping through a magazine and quickly got fabric to the cutting mat. I love the simple lines and the color scheme should go along with any home’s color pallet. Let me know what you think.

Etsy!

2009-11-21T02:20:00.001-09:00

As an outlet for my creative side I opened a store on Etsy. Currently, I have no items for sale or items to sale. I have marvelous ideas: quilts, fabric postcards, scarves. Problem is, no time to finish a sentence much less a craft to list.

I do recommend Etsy for any of your shopping needs. All the items found there are unique and handmade. If it’s not handmade or vintage, it cannot be listed. So check it out if you have to find a gift this holiday season for that someone who has everything. And if your curious on my progress, check my store Little Hands Warm Heart.