Sew, Mama, Sew! Giveaway Day

Hello everyone! Today is the day. Sew Mama Sew's Giveaway Day. And I just couldn't resist. I wanted to offer you guys a little treat.

By now, you should all know about my love of crochet. And Ana Paula Rimoli's patterns. I have her 4 books. And I'm pretty sure, I've bought all her patterns on Etsy. They're my "go-to," for gifts. I've not met a kiddo yet, that doesn't like one of these toys.

Tell me, get on with the giveaway! I know. I want to offer you a little of this crochet fun. And I'll be giving away a crochet package. What's in it??? One of these guys...

This is Ana's newest book. I'll also be including a $50 gift card for JoAnn's. You know, you need some yarn to make these. :) Maybe even some other supplies.

What do you have to do? Just leave me a comment, with your favorite person, to follow on Pinterest. My "other" addiction. Just ask this man! 1 comment. Simple. You have until Friday, December 7th. At 5PM PST. And don't forget to check Sew, Mama, Sew! for a ton of giveaways!!! Good Luck everyone!!! ♥

Oh Eugene!!!

I've talked about my cousin, Little J before. She's my 2 year old cousin. Not long ago, we had a "Date" to the mall. You know, to do all the things she enjoys. Riding the rides, shopping, and getting a yummy snack.

Before this little adventure, we were not too close. We just hadn't spent much time together. But I'm super close to her grandma. My 1st cousin. Little J's mom, is my 2nd cousin. Prior to this day, we'd seen each other. Played together. But we weren't super close.

But on the this day, we got to spend a few hours together. Being girls. Little J is all girl! She LOVES princesses, jewelry, and shoes!!! Little J, well she takes a little while to warm up to people. But in just a few minutes, I had the girl chatting away.

We talked about it all. Coloring, train rides, and Eugene. Oh, Eugene!!! Have you ever watched Tangled? If you have, then you know Eugene. Who just happens to be Little J's favorite guy! :)



Since our "Date," Little J and I have met a few more times to play and hangout. We've made trips to the mall, to ride the rides. And may have just had to have lunch, at her favorite place. Um, 4 times. :) But the topic that always comes up, is Eugene.

I got a call from Little J today. To let me know that she was watching Tangled. And playing with the dolls I bought her. And all of a sudden, she puts down the phone. And I hear, "Go Eugene, Go! Go Eugene, Go! You're doing it!" Little J was so excited!

Later, I find out that Eugene was climbing Rapunzel's hair. She was cheering for her "boyfriend." Wow! It was too cute. Do you remember having any "crushes" when you were that young? I just think it's too cute! Little J ALWAYS gives me an update on Eugene. ALWAYS!!! ♥

Fun Finds!!!

We've been spending a lot of time in the SW. Which I'm honestly LOVING!!! It makes for a heck of a lot of traveling. But it's well worth it. :)

I'm doing a lot of the "finishing touches," on our home in my hometown. We've had friends over. And a few of my family members. It's really turning into our "Dream Home." But there are still things we are putting up. Little things we need to buy.

That lead me, to K-Mart. I'm not a regular shopper there. When I was really little, my parents shopped there. But then when I was 5 o 6, we stopped shopping there. I don't know why. It just happened. And over the last 11 years, I've gone for very specific things.

Mostly things in their "Garden Center." Years ago, I like to shop for Martha Stewart home goods. When I can't find a movie, I head there. Once in a while, I find some cute clothes, shoes, or accessories. But it's not a store that I gravitate towards.

We need some sheers, for a very sunny room. I searched everywhere! Online, in stores, anywhere I could think of. Then while talking to my cousin, she told me they had some at K-Mart. Nice ones. For cheap! So I headed over.

My Guy and I spent hours there. Not lying! We bought 6 outdoor chandeliers, some flower baskets, various kitchen goods, our sheers, and I literally stumbled on the "Clearance Toys."

With all my Goddaughters, nieces, and my friends' little girls...I'm ALWAYS on the hunt for some cute toys. I buy stuff, and save it for birthdays and Christmas. Well, I dug around. And I found something.



Fisher Price's Minnie Mouse's House! I know a little girl, who would LOVE it! 2 actually. So we dug around some more. Found 2 more. The sticker said $20. Marked down from $40. I thought it was a decent deal. Nothing to be calling people about. But when we went to pay, it was $10!!! Yes, we got 3, for less than the regular price of 1!

When we got home, I looked up the toy. Found out they are back ordered until February 2013. What? I wrapped one up for a birthday present. Another for a Christmas present. And the 3rd, I took out of the package. My little cousin J, was coming over for a visit. And we don't have many toys around here.

Well, she adored it! Played for almost 2 hours with it. And only stopped when we went outside to the pool. I think it was a great hit. And a lesson learned by me. ALWAYS go check out random stores. For their "Clearance" section. Not just your favorite Target. :)

I headed back to another K-Mart. The next morning. Since I let Little J have the house. And I picked up 2 more. Along with some princess dolls, Bratz dolls, and a few tea sets. I felt like I was robbing the place. Literally 25 toys, for under $100. I'm well on my way to completing my "Christmas List" early! ♥

Be Our Guest

I have to admit something here. I'm a HUGE "Beauty and the Beast" fan. HUGE!!! It doesn't matter if we're talking Disney, or the Fairy Tale. There's just something about the story, that has always melted my heart. :)

When I was 8 years old, Disney's version was all over town! I was in love! Made this guy's mom, take me 20 or more times, to see the movie. I made my poor parents eat at Pizza Hut every single week. So I'd get the Beauty and the Beast puppets and puzzles.

Heck, when my parents got their cabin, I knew what my room was going to be decorated like. Can you imagine? I had the bedding, dolls, pictures, books, and even a lamp! I was in heaven!!! And over the last 11 years, watched my VHS, until I was sure, you couldn't watch it anymore.

So this year, when it came out in DVD, I snatched 1 up. Actually, My Guy bought me 2, and I had already bought 1. :) Little did I know, Little K, and my cousin J would fall in love too! And since I've been enjoying some good "Family Time" lately, can you imagine what we've been doing?

Well, when I'm home, Little K and I have watched our favorite movie many, many times. Then I found a few toys. Including this one. That I just had to buy!



Oh ya! I did. :) And it's helped host hours, and hours of fun! Then when I headed home to the SW, I bought another. For our home. And when my little cousin J came over, she was in love!!! It didn't hurt, that we had a few goodies from the Disney store too.

Yes, our little tea set, has been one fun toy! Brought me back to being 8 years old. And has helped me, to connect with the "younger" generation. Oh, there may have also been a little library recreating. And maybe, a little dressing up too! ♥

We All Scream for Ice Cream

Not going to lie here. I've been in a bit of an "amigurumi" mood lately. Like for the last 2 months. I've been making all sorts of things. Everything from fun toys, to yummy food.

Today, I was chatting with My Guy 's sister, K. She was telling me, that Little K is all about ice cream right now. I know what you're thinking. All kids love ice cream. But this girl, is a little obsessed. She wants to make everyone, a nice treat. All the time.

So I was thinking. There has to be some fun ice cream crochet patterns out there. Something I could make. And she'd enjoy playing with. Something that didn't involve "real" ice cream. All it's calories. And mess. Look what I found. :)



This afternoon, I whipped up all the parts for 6 cones. I just need to put them together. Which would mean a quick run to the store. I'm all out of stuffing. :( But honestly, this is such an easy pattern! You have to try it out. I'm sure your little ones will enjoy it too! ♥

Oh Lion!

We are currently surrounded by babies. No lie! Between My Guy's family, friends, and co-workers. Then you have my family, friends, and co-workers. I swear, it's like it's "Raining Babies!"

But it's definitely a good thing! I LOVE babies!!! Why else, would I want to be a pediatrician? I especially LOVE snuggling up, with all these tiny babies. Smelling them. I swear, someone needs to bottle up the "Newborn Smell!"

I also LOVE to make stuff for the little ones! Ask anyone that knows me. Including the hospitals where I work. I make everyone, something. The kiddos at work, get some sort of amigurumi toy. Little ones that I know, are showered in all things baby! Sweaters, booties, hats, blankets, and toys. So when I took a minute to look around Stitch 11 again, I about died!!!



Just look at this hat! Oh my goodness! I don't even know where to begin. Or how to put it into words. But I just have to make one. OK, maybe 10! Definitely, Little Nephew will be getting one. And so will my little cousin. Now when can I start crocheting? ♥

Wise Owl Tote Bag: Week 5

And it's our final week! :) Are your bags looking cute? Why am I asking? So many of you, have sent me the most adorable pictures! And I'm inspired to make a few more bags. Because I want to try your color combinations. Please keep sending me your pictures! :)

This week, Cari reminded me that she starts school in 8 days!!! I guess it's a good thing, that we're almost done with our Wise Owl Tote Bags! This week, all we have to work on, is the heart. The one that goes in the middle. And well, if you need to catch up, this is the week to do it!



I also received lots of e-mails, about how I've sewn on the various pieces. Well, with the eyes, I sewed the buttons on the "white part." Then attached that part of the eye, to the larger piece. That larger piece, is the part that I actually attached to the bag itself. If you try to sew from the largest to the smallest, it gets a bit "bulky." And the inside of your bag, can look a bit messy.

Now for the beak, don't over stuff it. That will make it too "bulky" for this project. I then sewed the end shut. Making it slightly flat. When it's sewn together, it's easier to attach to the body.

Once I attached the beak to the body, I didn't like how it "bobbled" around. So I tacked the entire beak down, from the inside of the bag. I did this, in a small triangle. Smaller than the size of the beak, so the stitches stay "hidden."

I hope that everyone has enjoyed this "Crochet Along!" I'm already planning our next one. With my Mom!!! And if you have any questions, please send me an e-mail at SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com. Or leave Cari or I a comment.

I hope you enjoy your Wise Owl Tote Bag! I know I've enjoyed making mine. And know, a very special little girl, is going to LOVE my finished bag too! ♥

Cutest Animals Ever!!!

I don't know about you, but I'm a very indecisive person. It takes me weeks, sometimes months, to buy something. I have to look at it, research, debate if I really want it. It's sorta a pain in the butt.

For example. Every single time, I go to a craft store, I look at this book. "Easy Crochet Critters." I even put it in my basket. Then when I get to the register, I decide not to buy it. Well, not too long ago, I went shopping with my Mom. And I debated this book again. Even with my coupon. Making this book $2...



I think my Mom had had enough with me. She bought me the book. And you know what? I think it's my favorite crochet book ever! There are so many cute patterns in this book. Definitely worth the cost. And the best part, they are super easy to make! I whipped up a lion, elephant, hippo, giraffe, and monkey in one night! The monkey is by far, my favorite animal of the bunch! The face of the lion is also to die for!!!



So I've taken this book, and created a few different gifts. A musician I used to work with, has a little girl. That just turned a year old. I made her 5 animals, whipped up a little bag, and bought her an animal book. She LOVED it!

Then a friend of ours, also has a little girl that's turning a year old. I made a few different animals, and pretty much made her the same gift. I whipped up a few, to send to another cousin. Who just had a baby. And I have a list of kiddos, I still want to make a set for.

But by far, that little monkey has been the winner. I've made 10! That weren't in these sets. And I've sold every single one! I'm not even trying to sell them. But everybody is in love with them. I've got a few more ordered. And I'm starting to make some extra animals. Because in September, my Mom and I are going to sell at another Craft Fair. :) I can't wait! ♥

Uncle and His Sweet Nieces

Happy Wednesday! How is everyone doing? I hope well. Around here, we've been crazy busy. But we're trying not to get too lost in everything. And a cute call from our "Little Nieces" always brings us back to reality!

These 2 little girls, sure do know how, to work their uncle. You see, when they really want something, and their parents aren't buying into it, they call up their uncle. And they schmooze him! "Uncle it's been so long, since we've seen you. We miss you. You are so handsome! And our favorite uncle. When can we go over to hangout?"

It really is cute. And they really do LOVE their uncle. And honestly, they don't call all the time for stuff. But there are just certain things, that grab their attention. Enter in...Stompeez.



These are slippers for kids. And when they walk, either the eyes, ears, or mouth pops up. They are actually really fun. How do I know about these? Last year, I bought Marissa and Mariella a pair. For their birthdays.

You see, they were with me. And we were watching cartoons. This silly commercial popped on. For Stompeez. They were in LOVE! Instantly! So I ordered 2 pairs. Well, recently that same commercial is popping up everywhere! And our "Little Nieces" saw it. While watching Saturday morning cartoons.

Well, uncle fell for it. And who could honestly resist, these 2 cuties? We just ordered 4 pairs. 2 pair for their home. 2 pair for ours. You know, we've got to keep fun stuff at our home too!

Is there anything that gets you? Something that you can't resist. An infomercial or commercial, that gets you. And you find yourself ordering something, that you wouldn't normally buy. Yes, we ALWAYS fall for these 2 little girls. I guess, as long as it's still reasonably priced. :) ♥

Quick Shot of Inspiration

We are in my hometown for a few days. And I'm planning on spending some time with my Little Cousin J tomorrow. She's 100% girl. With all the whimsy and fluff, that is a girl. She likes to dress up, paint her nails, play with dolls. Oh, and she's 2 years old!

So when I saw this little project on Little Miss Momma, just a few short hours ago, I knew I had to make it! I ran to the nearest Hobby Lobby, as it was closing. Begged them to let me in. And in less than 2 minutes, I had my stack of fabric, ready to be cut!



I chose white, bubblegum pink, and lavender. Remember, I told you Little J is all girl! A wise girl that LOVES her some Minnie Mouse, and Disney Princesses. :) I decided, I could whip this up tonight. With a quick stop at Target, my purchases were complete.



It's taken all of 30 minutes to whip up the "tent." And I've got everything cut out for this sweet blanket. Oh, and a few pillows to sit on. I just need to get them sewn up!

How is that for a quick shot of inspiration? Funny how some things work out. I found a new blog that I LOVE!!! And I just might have to whip up another playful set. For a very specific little girl. Who I know, will LOVE this to pieces!!! I can already see her playing tea party inside. With all her dolls. I can't wait!!! ♥

Wise Owl Tote Bag: Week 4

I almost forget that it was Sunday. I know! We're back from our vacation. But my brain still hasn't caught up. How are your bags coming along? Are they starting to look like owls?

I've gotten tons of fun e-mails this week. With pictures of your bags. Wow! They look AMAZING!!! If you want to send me yours, e-mail me at SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com.

This week, is going to be all about the little parts. The things I generally lose, if I don't attach them immediately! Please tell me, I'm not alone! This week, our goal is to make the inner eyes, outer eyes, and the beak. Oh, and attach everything! You know, so we don't lose them. :)



Before we go much further, don't forget this week, we'll be needing 2-12mm buttons for the eyes. I found some cute and inexpensive ones at Wal-Mart. They come in packs of 6 for $2. A wonderful buy if you ask me! Oh, and we'll also be needing a sewing needle. I like to use "tapestry needles," for this kind of work. But use whatever you feel comfortable with.

Lastly, don't forget to leave long tails, at the end of these pieces. It makes it A LOT easier to sew them in place. And then to hide the ends later. Now let's have a wonderful week crocheting! And if you need some help don't hesitate to contact Cari or I. Now let's give our owls a little personality! ♥

Wise Owl Tote Bag: Week 3

Happy Sunday! How is everyone doing? Are your bags coming along nicely? If you're like me, you get a little "addicted" to a project, and you don't want to put it down. Right? I know! Even in paradise, I'm having a problem with just leaving my Wise Owl Tote Bag undone. :)

Our goal this week, is to work the strap and 2 wings. And hopefully attach them to our finished bag. If you're like Cari, you had a very busy week. And she told me, she's going to use today, to "catch up." Then use this week, to make the strap and wings. See it's OK if you work at a slightly different pace.




Don't forget, if you have any problems, questions, or concerns don't hesitate to contact us. That's what we're here for! :) Leave Cari or I a comment. Or send me an e-mail at SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com. See you next Sunday! ♥

Wise Owl Tote Bag: Week 2

Let the crocheting begin!!! We're finally going to start our bags this week. I know! Can I be completely honest with you? I've been a little busy. And this morning, I woke up in a cold sweat. You see, we're traveling. And I thought I left my yarn at home...

Yes, I rushed out of bed, and searched my bag. Yes!!! I remembered my supplies. I even got to talk to Miss Cari this morning. Who will be spending the day with her Dad. In the park. And she is so excited to start her Wide Owl Tote Bag! So am I. :)




This week's goal is going to be, working Rows 1-20 of the bag. At the end of this week, we'll all have an idea, of how large our bags are going to be. Remember, if you have any questions, please leave Cari or I a comment. Or send me an e-mail at SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com.

Have a great week crocheting! And I can't wait until next week! We're going on vacation this week, so I might actually work ahead. :) It's going to be a long flight. ♥

Wise Owl Tote Bag: Week 1

Welcome Back Crocheters!!! Cari and I are so excited to get this "Crochet Along" started. I've gotten tons and tons of e-mails. So I am happy to say, this is already a HUGE success!!! And if you still want to join, we'd LOVE to have you! Just leave Cari or I a comment. Or send me an e-mail at SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com.



This week is going to be fairly easy. You need to print out this pattern, and buy the supplies. That's it! Easy as can be. :) That's how I like to start projects.

For me, the most difficult thing about starting a projecting, is buying he supplies. I know! You will need 1 skein of yarn for the body of the owl. I'm thinking that dusty purple color that Red Heart makes. And a decent amount, less than a skein, of a different color for the inner eyes and heart. I'll probably go with Aran. Funny how that's the only name I remember. But recently, I've been working on lots of dolls. :)

You will also need a small amount of another color for the outer eyes. I'm going with a dusty green. And a small amount of orange for the beak. For these 2 colors, I'd say you could use scraps. At least that's what I'm going to do. I have A LOT of scraps that need to be used up!

Come back next Sunday, and we'll actually get started on our bags. But I figured with all that we have going on during Summer, some of us might need the week to prepare. Have a wonderful week! ♥

Little K and Summertime Fun!!!

Little K has got to be the funniest 6 year old I know! We're in Florida. And the first thing she said, when she got here was, "Can we look at some blogs?" Her sister was ready to hit the beach. Have some fun on the beach. But Little K, was ready to read some blogs. Because in her words, "I NEED some ideas for Summer!"



Did you say Slurpee? I have to admit, that when our "Little Nieces" lived with us, I spoiled them a bit. Especially Little K. Mostly because her sister was in school. And she had to hangout with me. What did we do? At least twice a week, we'd share a Slurpee. :)

So 2 weeks ago, when I saw this picture...I had to do some digging. That's when I found this recipe. I knew Little K would adore a Kool Aid Slurpee. Girl has been here 2 days. And we've already made these 4 times!



This little beauty, you probably recognize it from the Home Depot commercials. Well, when this guy saw it, back in May, he wanted to make it for Little K. Doesn't it look fun? At this point, construction is done. All that needs to be completed is, painting it. And filling it up with sand. Perfect for our sand loving niece. At least we thought.



But Little K had another idea. She's been carrying around a sales flyer from Big Lots. For months! It's dated sometime in February. Why? Because Little K wants this "Sand and Water Table."And she was ready to tell her Uncle all about it! Forget that he's spent all this time, making her a sandbox. She wants this $20 toy...

So we spent 3 hours reading blogs. Looking at pictures. And "Window Shopping." All while enjoying our Slurpees. And snacking on some fresh fruit. All of this, makes me just want to spend a month, hanging out with Little K. She is a firecracker. All by herself! Looks like our Summer is going to be full of fun! ♥

Crochet Along: Wise Owl Tote Bag

Cari and I had this idea. You see, Cari is getting ready to start 8th grade this year. And wanted to make something fun for school. I know! It's the beginning of July. Still Summer in my book. But this should be fun.

Right now, Miss Cari is in Mexico. Studying her Folklorico dancing. Don't let that get between a girl, her goal, and some crochet fun! We're going to start our little "Crochet Along." Next Sunday. And it should be a blast! So what are we making? Redheart's Wise Owl Tote Bag.



We're going to give plenty of time to complete this project. Being that it's Summer. Many of us have planned trips. And well, we just want to work at a fairly relaxing pace.

If you are interested, please leave Cari or I a comment. Or e-mail me at SweetNightingaleSing (at) gmail (dot) com. Remember, this is meant to be something fun and enjoyable. And hopefully, at the end of the "Crochet Along," we'll have something fun to be proud of! Hope to see you Sunday! ♥

Little Piggy

Let me tell you, Miss Sarita is a BIG fan of pigs! I don't know what it is. But she is a cutie. :) So I spent a little time today, looking for some new crochet patterns. And I found this cute little piggy! With a pancake! :) Have you ever read, If You Give a Pig a Pancake?



Well, I'm busy as a bee! Crocheting this little piggy. And I even bought a new copy of If You Give a Pig a Pancake. I can't wait to get this little present, in the mail! I don't know who is going to be more excited. Me or my gorgeous Goddaughter! ♥

Fun Crochet Food!!!

My cousin asked me, almost 3 years ago, to be his daughter's Godmother. It was a very special day! My Goddaughters really do mean the world to me. And I see being a Godmother, as a blessing.

Unfortunately, she happens to be my one Goddaughter, who I see the least. It makes me so sad! But I make sure, to call her weekly. And send her little notes, and surprises every other week. I think it's so important to stay close. And to let her know, that I'm here for her. After all, she's ONLY 4 years old!

Well, for Christmas I bought her a little Kitchenette. And it hasn't quite made it to her. So I've been slowly crocheting her some fun food. And I hit the jackpot last night! I found this AMAZING blog. With so many cute patterns!



First up, some breakfast. How cute is this? A friend egg, toast, and bacon. I'm sure, this will be a hit!



How about some milk and cookies? On the blog, they're labeled as "Santa's cookies." I just think they're cute! I'll probably make the cups a more neutral color. Not so Christmas-y.



Would you like a hotdog? I just adore this pattern! Because I've NEVER seen anything like it. But I'm going to have to add some relish. Because that's my favorite part of eating a hotdog! :)



Or maybe a hamburger is more your style. The lettuce just cracks me up! But I think this will be fun to recreate!



And you can't forget the shake and fries! I adore these curly fries!!! I've never seen a pattern like that. The twist on the shake is also ADORABLE!!!



Or maybe you would like a movie snack. Popcorn and a pretzel. How fun is this? I LOVE the shape of the popcorn. :)



And crochet food, just wouldn't be complete without a few s'mores! How fun is this! S'mores just happen to be a favorite of mine. :)

I'm hoping to crochet quickly. I would like to get a nice set done. Before I see my Goddaughter. I think these will be a nice addition, to her Kitchenette. Who knows, I might even sew up an apron and oven mitts! ♥

Did You Say Minnie?

For Christmas, I made a few Hello Kitty hats. One was for my little cousin. She adores all things "girl!" And since Christmas, she's been wearing her little hat. Don't try and touch it, take it away, or hide it. Even in this warm weather, she is wearing an earflap hat!!!

But the truth of the matter is, she LOVES Minnie Mouse. So when I seen this crochet pattern, I just knew I had to print it out. Never mind that it is June. I'm starting this year's Christmas presents!!!




I just can't get over how cute these hats are. I think I can get a few done, before December. A few for my Goddaughters, nieces, and little cousins. Oh, I just can't wait!!! ♥

Did You Say Strawberry Shortcake?

For Christmas, I bought one of my Goddaughters a little Kitchenette. Can you believe, 6 months later, it's still at my house? Put together, wrapped up, waiting to be delivered...

So I thought, I should crochet her some little food. Something to play with, in her little kitchen. So I've been searching the internet. High and low. For some fun patterns. That's when I came across this Strawberry Shortcake. :)



You know about my love of strawberries. So I just thought, this would be perfect! I've been making lots of crochet food this week. Do you have any patterns, blogs, or websites that I should look at? I'd LOVE to get some more ideas! ♥