{olive & ollie}

Shocking, I know.  It's Monday.  And I'm actually posting my "Monday Mornings Inspiration" ON Monday.  {big pat on back for Trish, thank you}. I met Heather Jones at Quilt Market last fall but we had been "Twitter" friends long before that.  Turns out, Heather is a "neighbor" of sorts.  She lives in Cincinnati (I'm in Columbus - only 2 hours apart).  She has been ON FIRE lately with her modern quilt designs and I'm so excited to introduce her to you today!  You will fall in love with her creations and certainly, be inspired!  {and do some crafty things yourself because she is sharing some of her inspiration with you!  See the end of post!}  Friends, meet Heather Jones of Olive & Ollie...

Since the feature is called Monday Mornings Inspiration, can you tell me what inspired you to a career in art and design?

I’ve always been artsy and crafty. I used to paint and draw a lot, and I majored in Art History in college and grad school. I started my career in the Curatorial and Education departments at the Cincinnati Art Museum, while I made all sorts of crafts in my spare time. When my children were born, I knew I didn’t want to go back to my day job, so I looked at ways that I could make money from home and still take care of them. I opened up my etsy shop in 2007, but really started to think of it as a prospective business in 2008, after the birth of my daughter. By then, I had an 18 month old and a newborn, so I began to focus on designing children’s clothing and accessories. 

What continues to inspire you each day and how do you keep your art fresh?

My husband and children are my number one sources of inspiration. They continue to inspire me every day, and challenge me to work as hard as I can for our little family. My husband is a painter, and I’m really inspired by his artwork, and I can see his influence in my work. But, I honestly see inspiration everywhere. One of my recent quilt designs was based on a grid that was painted in the parking lot of my local Wal-mart!

I’ve began to take a few more breaks in the studio, which I think is a good way to keep things fresh. I still rarely have a day off because of my limited hours of work time each day, which are usually late at night or early in the morning, when the kids are still sleeping. But, I’m trying to make more time for myself, which helps me recharge and keep things fresh. I’m also inspired by the women who are members of the Cincinnati Modern Quilt Guild with me.

What 3 words best describe you

Caring, Compassionate, Strong

What could you not live without to get through each work day?  Your phone/computer, sewing machine or your coffee?

Probably all! I’m not a big fan of coffee though, and I really prefer tea, but coffee has become an unfortunate necessity to me, since I’m usually running on about 5 hours of sleep every day!

What is the one best part of your job as a designer?

The best thing is being able to work from home and stay with my babies, who are now three and four. I’m incredibly lucky to have a job that I love and that allows me to be with them as well.

What advice would you offer to someone when it comes to living a creative life?

Follow your passion and do what you love. Don’t forget that you can do anything that you want to, and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.

What can we expect to see from you in the coming year in terms of new projects and design?

I’m working on a series of modern quilt patterns that I hope to have completed this fall. I am also going to be writing patterns for some of the children’s clothing and accessories that I currently make as well. And finally, I’m also part of a big project that unfortunately I can’t say too much about, but just keep your eyes open in the spring!

Thanks Heather for sharing a bit of yourself - your work is so beautiful!  I'm thinking I may need to offer up a bribe of some sort to find out what this big project is...hmm!  I hope you'll visit Heather on her blog and leave her some love!  If you've enjoyed this post - please share (easy to do with the little share buttons at the bottom!)

SEW ALONG with Heather - she has so graciously offered to give 3 of you a copy of her YIELD PDF QUILT PATTERN!  Sweet!  Leave me a separate comment for each of the following and we will pick a winner later this week!  {giveaway ends on Friday, May 13th at midnight - winner chosen via Random.org}.

1) Just leave any old comment - preferably one where you share what crafty goodness you've been up to lately.  one entry. 2) Follow Heather on Facebook.  One entry. 3) Follow Heather's blog. one entry. 4) Visit Heather's shop - because you will drool over the adorable birthday ensembles, then come back and tell me you are so glad you found her! one entry

4 chances - one very cool and fun quilt pattern!

xoxo,

Trish

Gussy Sews Giveaway Winner

If you showed Gussy some love - she greatly appreciated it!  The winner of the $40 shop credit from her featured post was JULIE!Congrats Julie...I'll be emailing you asap!

xoxo,

Trish

Fringed Flower {tutorial}

A quick and lovely corsage to make for Mom or Grandma this weekend to celebrate Mother's Day...

{don't forget to go HERE and enter to win a $40 shop credit from Gussy Sews - open until midnight, May 8th, 2011}

You may remember from HERE my tutorial for this belt and I accessorized it with this fringed flower.  You can put a hair clip or pin on the fringed flower to wear in hair or wear on your clothes {heck, put both clip and pin on there so you can multi-purpose your flower!}

You'll need some fabric - fat quarters or scraps, whatever ya got.  A felt square to cut your backing.  A pin or hairclip.  Glue gun.  And some bling bling - like a cute button or faux jewel.

Start with 3 different size circles and cut about 8 circles per size.  I use everyday objects for my templates.  A cup, a ribbon spool, a bowl...stuff like that.  Just find 3 graduated sizes.  8 of each should be enough but you may want more or less depending on how full you want your flower.  I actually used only 5 for the smallest size.

Fold each circle in half.  I place one teeny tiny dot of glue in the center to hold it.  Then fold it in half again.  Add another dot of glue to hold it.  Then, make an "S" with your fabric petal - add a dot of glue at each turn towards the center point just to hold it in place.

After your petals are formed, next comes the fringe.  Snip each petal with your scissors 2/3 of the way down the petal.  Continue with your glue process and snipping until all of your petals are complete.

Next, cut a circle from your felt.  How big?  I typically cut mine about 2 1/2" - 3".  Using your glue gun, put a layer of glue on your felt circle.  Start to arrange your petals on the circle by placing them on their edge around the circle.  That will require you to hold multiple petals in place as you glue.  Make sense?  If you lay them down flat, your flower just isn't as full and fluffy.

Continue adding your petals, placing the largest ones on the bottom and working your way up until you put the smallest ones on top.  The smallest ones will actually get a dot of glue in the center of the flower and place all of those small petals with the small tips in to the center, fringed ends to the top.  Not on their side but pointed edge straight down to finish off the shape of the flower.

Add a little bling to the center to dress it up or leave it plain if you'd like.  Add a pin to the back and / or a hairclip.  And...hey there, you are now your Mom's favorite kid because YOU remembered to bring her flowers this Mother's Day!  Score!  Happy Mother's Day to all you fabulous Mom's in the world!  Enjoy your special day!

xoxo, Trish {like this tutorial?  Please share - at the bottom of the post you can tweet it or share on your facebook and more!}

gussy sews, and sews, and sews and sews...

Yes, yes...I realize, yet again a series I titled "Monday Mornings Inspiration" has not been posted on Monday.  I really need to change the name because my life is very unpredictable!  I digress...regardless of what day it is, it is a great day to meet Maggie!

Maggie Whitley is the girl behind the ruffle - the gussy sews girl - you know the one!  The girl is everywhere!

Maggie taught herself to sew not that long ago, launched a business, quit her day job and the rest as they say, is history.  She is sweet and energetic and not afraid to take risks.  A lesson that she shares so freely on her blog.  She is always a breath of fresh air and I've enjoyed getting to know her in blogland.

Today, Maggie is my Monday Mornings Inspiration, or Wednesday...whatever!  You'll be inspired too - read on!

1) Since the feature is called Monday Mornings Inspiration, can you tell me what inspired you to a career in art and design?

At the time I started sewing (November 2008), it was truly just a hobby and something to fill my evenings and weekends with. I wasn't really interested in watching TV when Zack (my husband) had to work late, so one day in November I decided I'd teach myself how to sew. As the months passed and I learned more and more I came to really love the trade. Also around this time my husband and I suddenly became unemployed. The Michigan companies we worked for weren't doing very well, and we lost our jobs. As newly weds and recent college grads were were left thinking, WHAT do we do now?!?! It was a really crazy time and we were both unemployed for 7 months.

Around August of 2009 we decided to pursue the only job offer we received -- I was offered a full-time, salaried position in Minneapolis, so we moved. We packed up the house we were renting in Detroit, MI and moved 600 miles. I was still sewing at really developing my brand and style. A few months later Zack and I agreed it was time to leave my salaried job and work full-time on my business, Gussy Sews.

In college I studied photography and journalism ~ two subjects I really love, and have for some time. Originally my dream job was to work for a magazine. I was drawn to fresh designs, new monthly page layouts. Since I love to talk and interact, working for a magazine and interviewing others for features was perfection! Even though I'm not working THAT dream job, I'm definitely working my current dream job {yeow!}. I'm really drawn to color and this job in art & design allows me to work with it, through various mediums, plus it allows me to feel inspired by completed to-do lists. Oh yes, I'm a list girl ;]

2) What continues to inspire you each day and how do you keep your art fresh?

I work a pretty strict schedule which coincidentally allows for "free time" daily. During this time I read, watch a movie {seriously -- there is so much inspiration in movies}, I write guest blog posts that allow me to create using different mediums. Each day I walk our puppy, Bauer, and so I find inspiration in nature, fresh air, exercise. I need to clear my mind since I do spend a lot of time online ~ it's very fast paced so taking short breaks outside is incredibly helpful.

Another way I stay inspired is to meet with friends weekly for coffee. We don't have a car {Minneapolis has a fantastic bus system}, so some times it takes a little planning to get out, but it's a must for weekly inspiration.

3) What 3 words best describe you

Sassy, vibrant, caring.

4) What could you not live without to get through each work day?  Your phone/computer, sewing machine or your coffee?

Umm, all three! :] I need coffee -- yes, need -- because it helps me to relax and take a few minutes for myself each day. I need my sewing machine so I can create pretty ruffles and I need my computer so I can share them with the world!

5) What is the one best part of your job as a designer?

I feel a real sense of purpose being my own boss. To take a product I've designed and be able to make a living selling it is so fulfilling. I feel very blessed.

6) What advice would you offer to someone when it comes to living a creative life?

I think it's really important to know how you work best, to know what encourages/motivates you, and to be able to say "no" if something doesn't feel right or you don't have time. The best part about this is there's no right or wrong answer to these things. They can be totally personalized to fit each business owner.

7) What can we expect to see from you in the coming year in terms of new projects and design?

Can I be vague and say something colorful? :]

Maggie you rock!  Maggie has very generously offered to share some gussy goodness with one of you - a $40 shop credit!  That could get a girl some serious ruffles!  This giveaway will be open until Sunday, May 8th at midnight.  Giveaway is now closed.  Winner will be chosen via random.org.  Here's how to enter:

1)  Visit Maggie on her blog and leave her a comment saying hello!  Come back here and tell me you did so - 1 entry.

2)  Visit Maggies shop - come back here and tell me how you would spend the shop credit - 1 entry.

3)  Like Maggie on Facebook - leave her a nice little note saying hello.  Come back here and tell me you did so - 1 entry.

4)  You could just leave me some blog love too - a nice little comment saying, "Hi Trish!" you know, something like that would make me smile.  1 entry just for being so nice and sweet.

5)  Or maybe, be my friend.  I like to have friends too.  Who doesn't like to have friends?  I love making new friends.  Want to be my friend?  (Oh sheez!  I've been inside too long with all this rain and just me and Sprout all day - my brain is turning to mush!)  Friend me on facebook and say hello.  Come back here and tell me you did so and I promise to say hello back.  Really, I will.  I love making new friends.  (hee!hee!) - 1 entry.

5 chances to win $40 smackeroos worth of shop credit from Gussy Sews!  Thanks Maggie for sharing your inspiration with us...love ya!

xoxo,

Trish

Letter to Sprout

Dear Sprout,

3 years ago today, we welcomed you into our family of four and became a family of five.  You have been the brightest star in our family and have brought countless joys and smiles to your father and me and your sisters too! I think I may have been so busy when your sisters were little because there were two of them at once, that I missed some of the wonderful little baby things.  I am so glad I had the experience with you - to take care of you, nurse you, rock you, and hold only you.  You were a very good baby and we wondered if you would ever cry because you rarely ever were sad.

You share your birthday with my oldest sister, your Aunt, who is in heaven.  I sometimes wonder if that makes your grandmother sad because I miss my sister terribly and I know she does too.  But I think you have brought back a visible celebration to this day that I know my sister enjoys with you.  I always feel her in my heart and I know that our smiles on your birthday (and hers) would make her very happy.

I don't really have words to describe how much I have enjoyed being your Mom Sprout.  Maybe having my "Mom" confidence from having twins first helped me to enjoy you more as an infant and now as a toddler.  But there is something about you.  I love my life so much more with you and your sisters in it.  Before you were even conceived, I knew you were out there.  I dreamed about you so many nights.  I couldn't wait to meet you.  But I knew you were out there waiting to come to our family.  Your Dad knew it too.  We talked about you a lot, for years before you ever came to our family.

I love how funny you are.  How you make us laugh when you try to act like your sisters.  When you fake laugh because you hear them laughing and it makes us all laugh even harder because you are forcing this funny fake laugh.  I love when you say grace at dinner time with your hands folded and your pointy finger out and you say, "thank you God for this and this and this and this and that and that and this.  Amen" as you point to everything on your plate and then around the table to your Dad and I and your sisters.

I wish I could keep you little forever because this has truly been one of the most precious moments in my life.  With all 3 of my girls around, I can't help but be so incredibly thankful for my life here on earth.  Your birth, sweet Sprout, is a gift from heaven.  My love for you reaches to heaven and back.

Your hair twirling, thumb sucking ways has all of us wrapped around your finger.  There isn't much we ever say no to when it comes to you - you're too cute and too sweet and too lovable.  Who could ever refuse you?  (although we do at times and you scold us terribly...which just makes all of us, including your sisters give in.  I'm sure we may regret that someday but for now, it just makes us smile).

Today is your birthday.  The day I became the mother of 3 wonderful little girls.  20 minutes after you were born, I asked if I could go home because I really was feeling quite fine and just wanted to take you home.  They made me stay exactly 24 hours...and then your Daddy packed you up and took us both home on a warm sunny Spring day where your grandparents and sisters were waiting for you.  (Your sisters were REALLY excited because they knew I had some "baby's homecoming gifts for THEM" and they couldn't wait to open their gifts!)  

On Easter Sunday, we celebrated your 3rd birthday with cousins and Aunts and Uncles and your grandparents.  You got a really cool Dora the Explorer bike that you squealed in delight when you saw it.  And I thought about how Easter, how we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord Jesus and the gift we were all given in that moment, a promise of everlasting life.  What better gift could we ever receive.

Happy Birthday sweet Sprout.  I love you all the way to heaven and back, infinity.

xoxo,

Momma

Monday Mornings Inspiration {or Tuesday, whatever}

I don't even recall how Sarah and I became friends but I just know that I am blessed with her friendship.  Meet the talented and lovely Sarah of Sarah B Designs...

Since the feature is called Monday Mornings Inspiration, can you tell me what inspires you to be creative? Inspiration is everywhere! I've never been one to just let things be-- I always have to tinker with things to make them just so. If what I want isn't ready-made, then it's time to jump on in and do it myself!

What continues to inspire you each day and how do you keep your art fresh?  I'm thankful to be able to stay at home with my my young kids but between the morning school drop off, the inevitable errands, housecleaning, potty-training, preschool drop-off, and all the cooking that needs to be done in an day, there's hardly any time left to be creative! I try to make a point to find at least a few minutes to sew or sketch or scribble out a recipe conversion as a way to inch forward, make some progress that cannot be undone (because a cooked meal, clean sink or empty laundry basket don't last long).What could you not live without to get through each work day?  Your phone/computer, sewing machine or your coffee? An internet connection of some sort! I don't tend get much face to face adult conversation on any given day, so chatting with my online friends and browsing blogs is a great pick-me-up and inspiration.

What is the best part of your job as a designer? Seeing something turn from an idea into a finished project is so exciting! Whether it's a doodle turning into a piece of fabric or graph paper sketch that finishes as a quilt, it's thrilling to see the end result. One of the best things has been the treat of seeing others use my Moda Bake Shop "recipes" and post photos on their blogs or on Flickr. Receiving notes from people who have used my food allergy baking recipes either for themselves or their child is especially heartwarming.

What advice would you offer to someone when it comes to living a creative life? Time is precious. Spend it with the people who make you happy and support your creativity. Focusing on negative talk never helps anyone, so eliminate as much of it around you as you can, and you will find that you are happier and more productive. What can we expect to see from you in the coming year in terms of new projects and design? I am still designing digital scrapbook kits for sale, which can be found in my shop at Digitals If your readers would like head over there, there are a few free samples and I am please to offer a coupon for $2 of purchase of $6 or more. Just enter 614c45a59b during the coupon code field at checkout. (Expires April 30, 2011, valid once per registered customer.)

I have some of my current digital scrapbook paper designs formatted as fabric and up for sale at Spoonflower  along with a few other designs like this little one that is being printed now and on it's way to being either a cute shirt or pair or PJ pants for my little boy!   In the coming weeks I'll have a new quilt tutorial posted at Moda Bake Shop and I'm excited to finally share the front of quilt I've been working on! I will give a sneak peek of the back of it…. I sketched up another quilt for my mom and plan to share that tutorial on my sewing blog as soon as I write it up.

Thanks Sarah for sharing your inspiration!

xoxo,

Trish

Knock, knock! Remember me?

Forgive me for dropping off the face of the earth.  We have been quite busy around these parts.  Doing dishes.  Homework. 4H.  Work.  Play. Etc. I really didn't mean to be absent quite so long.  I posted back here about our Sprout and I'm happy to say that the news does continue to improve.  Not fully out of the woods and our long term prognosis to developing complications is not all that favorable but as testing continues, at this moment, we breathe a little easier with each positive note.  We adore our neurologist and will be working with another specialist soon to be a 2nd (actually a 3rd or 4th - she has quite the team advocating for her) set of eyes on her case.  We are thankful that things are no where near as bleak as they first presented.

But that leads me to priorities.  I don't know if you know all of what I do - much like many of you - my life is very busy.  I know I've mentioned this many times about how we as women are multi-taskers and not always to our betterment.  But if someone were to ask me one of my weaknesses, well, I over multi-task.

I have a sensitive and generous husband.  I am the mother of 3 children.  I have a fledgling business that grew from an artful love and family traditions.  I work outside the home in a part time in a job that I still enjoy as it has evolved over the years and where I feel like I truly touch lives in such a positive way.  I try to keep up my home though mostly unsuccessfully.  Clean but often cluttered?  And as I frequently tell myself, a messy house is a house that is well lived in and where there is a lot of love going around (well, that's my "excuse" at least).   My kids will be grown and gone before I know it so I try not to miss too many moments.  This is what people say when they have messy houses though, isn't it?  :>)

Blogging and all of this business stuff and the fun stuff of sewing / designing is time consuming.  I love it.  I do.  I do. I do.  But as of late, it is my hearts desire to be sure that I find just the right balance.  I've been working, yet again (as it seems I often attempt and fail at prioritizing) on adjusting my schedule so that I have plenty of family time, husband time, kids time, house time, sewing time, business time...in the last few weeks, I've just found myself snuggling with Sprout or the peas or my hubby and saying to heck with much else.  Because really, in the end, they are my entire world.  Everything else, as wonderful as it may be, doesn't come close to filling my heart up like those 3 little people and that hubby of mine does.

I have a long list of blog topics and I'll be working on getting those up and running and scheduled.  But if I grow quiet - feel free to chime in and check on me!  I'm just working on trying to figure out how to schedule it all in...work, fun, sewing fun, connecting with friends far and wide, family time and date nights.  How do you manage it all?  I 'd love to hear your advice!

The first thing I've started doing lately is sticking to a quitting time.  Deciding on working hours and keeping to it.

I've also unplugged a bit.  Outside of peeking in here and there from my iphone, I'm staying offline a bit more these days hoping to sneak in more sewing time.

My husband and I are also working on making my sewing room more of a work space.  (It currently holds a beautiful antique bed and serves as a guest room too!) but soon the bed will disappear and I'll get to stretch my legs a bit more in there.  Since I hired Courtney from our church to work for me handling shipments, etc - it has gotten very crowded in my little sewing studio / guest room.   The new improved room will have a place for packaging orders, collating patterns, and gasp, perhaps more room for fabric!

Plus, we are sorting (who am I kidding I, I AM sorting) toys and clothes and paring down.  Trying to simplify as much as I can.  And I've been praying a whole lot about being the person that God created me to be for my husband.  It is so easy to get caught up in the day to day and kids and work and become just Mom and Dad.  Husband and Wife come first - the family foundation, and I've really been setting my heart at making sure that my man is happy, content and cared for.  It's something I pray about a lot.

SO THIS IS ME KNOCKING AT YOUR SCREEN...I'm still here.  Promise.  Just prioritizing.  Adjusting my schedule some.  I haven't dropped off the face of the earth.  Promise.

xoxo,

Trish

Patty Young - Giveaway Winner

Family first...as it is for all of us. Pardon my slow as a snail updates as I've been snuggling away with Sprout and my other girls, giving them my attention during an unusually very busy work week. Later today (or maybe tomorrow as I'm about to go do some nap time sewing!) my Monday Mornings Inspiration post will be up. You'll love meeting Sarah from Sarah B Designs!

And the winner from last weeks post with Patty Young, #24 - TriciaLee! (I'll be emailing you shortly)

xoxo, Trish

I have the pleasure of calling today's featured artist a friend and mentor.  Patty Young is a very talented designer with a heart as big as the sun.  She has been a wonderful mentor to me as I've started my Two Peas business offering me advice, counsel and friendship.  She and her husband Jon make an amazing team and have been a great inspiration to our family.

She is truly a fabulous, genuine talent.  Say Good Morning to Patty Young...

Since the feature is called Monday Mornings Inspiration, can you tell me what inspired you to a career in art and design? I have always been "artsy" for as long as I can remember. When I was little, I took as many private art classes as I could and many times I'd get in trouble at school for doodling on my notebooks or on the desks.  I chose Fine Arts as my major when I got accepted to college and luckily, my parents supported me all the way (even though we all feared it would be a tough life!).

After graduating with a BFA in Photography and Graphic Design, I worked for about 15 years in the Marketing/Advertising field as a Graphic Designer turned Creative Director.   After my second daughter, Sydney, was born, I just couldn't do the long hours and crazy schedules anymore.  Plus, the stress of managing people, commuting and being away from my kids for so many hours was really messing with my head, so I left my job to "pursue my own creative endeavors".  I put that phrase in quotes because at the time we didn't know what it would be. We are all thrilled at what those "creative endeavors" turned out to be!   I wouldn't trade this life for anything in the world.

What continues to inspire you each day and how do you keep your art fresh? I draw inspiration from the past and the present alike.  Before I had my kids I traveled extensively through Europe and Central America, so you'll see bits and pieces of my travel experiences pop up in my collections.  Andalucia was inspired by our honeymoon in Spain. Mezzanine was inspired by my travels through Northern Europe in the late 90's.  I also draw inspiration from nature (Flora & Fauna), my kids (Playdate) and favorite places (Sanctuary).

What 3 words best describe you

Passionate. Obsessive. Sleepless.

What could you not live without to get through each work day? Your phone/computer, sewing machine or your coffee? Anyone who knows me can attest to my morning coffee addiction. Usually it's a Peppermint Mocha, but lately it's Espresso with Coconut Milk on ice. I cannot start my day without it. My MacBook Pro and iPhone are my necessary evil. I am -- and probably will forever be -- a slave to technology.

What is the one best part of your job as a designer? The best part is seeing the beautiful things other people create with my fabric and patterns. Just today I ran into a blog post, purely by chance, where someone had made the most beautiful quilt out of my latest fabric line, Sanctuary. The words she used to describe my fabric and the names of my prints literally brought tears to my eyes (in a good way). I immediately thought "She gets me." That's what it's all about!

What advice would you offer to someone when it comes to living a creative life? Not to sound too clichéed, but "if at first you don't succeed, try again... and again... and again". Perseverance is everything in this industry!  If you are original people will notice. It may happen right away or it may take some time.  Be patient and keep up the good work.  It will happen for you.

What can we expect to see from you in the coming year in terms of new projects and design? I have a new fabric collection coming out this May that I am over-the-moon in love with.  I cannot reveal the name or any sneak peeks yet, but I will say it is exotic, rich and happy.  I hope you all will love it as much as I do!   I also have a new line of sewing patterns coming out in May and my first book coming out later this year.  In addition to all this, I do have three super exciting licensed products that will delight everyone in your family.  Again, it's all hush-hush for now but I can give you one hint: My mom will LOVE the first two, my dad will SQUEAL when he sees the third! (that is, if squealing was his way of showing excitement... in reality, he will probably just smile and say "WOW, that's great!" :)

Patty, thank you so very much for sharing your inspiration!

Patty has offered to share some of her fabulous designs with one of YOU!  A 5 - piece MODKID pattern bundle!  Cuz' she's generous and wonderful like that.

To enter the giveaway, leave a comment for each one:

1) Visit Patty's website and tell us which of your favorite MODKID patterns you would add to a bundle.

2)  Follow Patty on Facebook

3)  Follow the Two Peas in a Pod Homegrown Designs blog (you can find a subscription link over there in the sidebar)

This giveaway will be open until Friday, April 8th at midnight, EST.

xoxo,

Trish

Fabric belt {tutorial}

I have officially reached "that age".  The age in which I have had all of the babies I'm apparently gonna have and the left over baby belly I'm still toting around with me is forever.  I guess.  I have fallen in love lately with the styles that have the skinny jean and tunics - anything to hide my ever expanding backside.  Can I hear an amen from the choir? And I love the belted look!  Each time I think I'm going to buy one of those wide adorable belts I cringe because ouch!  $30 for a belt!  Or more...I'm way too cheap for that.  I came up with a few different fabric versions I think you'll enjoy too.  I'm sharing the first one here today.  They are lightweight and so comfortable that you don't even know you have it on which is a huge bonus over the leather ones that cut into you a bit.

And this project is super easy and FAST!  I always tell everyone, I'm a naptime sewer - gotta stitch fast while Sprout is snoozing so this is a perfect project to get done in that blessed hour or two in the afternoon.

Here's what you need to get started:

1/4 yard of cotton fabric, not too lightweight.  You want it to have some "oomph" so I would stick with a regular quilt weight cotton.

1/8 yard of heavy fusible fleece interfacing.

Coordinating thread, sewing machine and your iron.

Ready?  READ the entire project instructions before beginning.  Use 1/4" seams throughout.

step one Start by printing out the pattern here.  {click on it and then print image - it should print full size which is 12" in length}  It should print on a legal size sheet of paper.  Cut 2 from your fabric.  Cut 1 of the interfacing from this pattern making the interfacing 1/4" smaller on all sides than your full size pattern piece.  Fuse the single piece of interfacing to one of the fabric pieces, following manufacturers instructions.

step two Custom size your belt.  The angled part of the belt from our pattern above sits in the front.  You will be adding to it the remainder of the belt that wraps around your waist.  To determine how long to make that, measure your waist where you want your belt to sit and measure OVER THE TOP of your clothing.  This is where your belt will sit so you want it to be a little fuller.  The first 12" of your measurement is the equivalent of the pattern piece above.  That remaining number PLUS 2" is the length of the belt you are adding to the pattern piece.  Am I making any sense?

For example, 12" (the pattern piece) + 27" =  39" or the exact waist measurement where you want the belt to sit on your hips.  Add to the 27" + 2" = 29".  (the 2" addition is to account for our seams)  29" is the length of the belt piece that wraps around, attaches into your pattern piece.  I'm really bad a math so I hope this makes sense to you...

Cut 2 - your custom belt length (our example was 29")  x 2 1/4" wide (2 1/4" wide should be the same width at the narrow end of your pattern piece).

Cut 1 - interfacing same length and 1 3/4" wide.  Fuse interfacing to one of the long belt fabric pieces per manufacturers instructions.

Still with me?

step three Cut 2 - ties.  2" x 22".

Let's sew!

step four With right sides together, pin your wide angled belt pieces together.  Sew around 3 edges leaving the small end opposite the wide end open.  Clip your corners and turn right side out.  Steam press.

step five With right sides together, pin your long belt pieces together and stitch down both long edges leaving your short ends open.  Turn right side out and press.

step six Creating your ties.  Press your 2" wide pieces to the center and then again in half - to create the ties.  At the ends, I fold them in to create an angle end.  Then stitch along the long edge.

step seven On your angled belt piece, turn in the narrow open end and place the long belt piece inside, about an inch.  Pin and topstitch opening closed, attaching the two belt pieces together.

On the other end of your open long belt piece, turn it in about an inch.  Place your two ties inside the opening, pin and stitch closed.

Using the mark from the pattern, mark your belt for a 3/4" buttonhole.  Stitch buttonhole.  Put your belt on, pull the ties from the back to the front through the buttonhole and tie in a cute bow.  If you make your buttonhole too big, your bow will pull through it.  Hope that all made sense...it is a very quick and easy project and super cute!  I'm going to do a patchwork one next!  And I have a few more designs I'm mocking up too...you'll see those appear sometime before summer!

I added a cute fringed flower and I'll show you how to do that this weekend! 

Sew away dear friends!

xoxo,

Trish

Birthday Giveaway - Winners!

First, THANK YOU so very much for your Birthday wishes!  It certainly made me smile!

Second, you guys rock the "random acts of kindness" - so glad to read of all the fabulous ways you reach out to others.  So inspiring!

Third, thank you for your patience!  I've been slow to post things I've promised to get out but I have a good excuse and I feel I can share a little more about it now.  I know I've mentioned that our little Sprout has had some struggles lately.  Starting after the first of the year, she was exhibiting some symptoms that were quite concerning.  They potentially still are in fact.  After an ER visit, various tests, an abnormal EEG and visits with the neurologist - it was decided that we had better get an MRI to be certain that our little Sprout did not have a brain tumor as her symptoms would lead you towards that as a possible cause.

This past Monday, we spent a day at Childrens Hospital and were so very relieved and thankful that her images were negative for any signs of tumors or lesions.  We are left with some other lingering questions and we will continue to cautiously explore but for now, our family is rejoicing in what could have been - is not.  I felt terrible for all these weeks because I would read on the internet (such a bad, bad thing to do when you have only a speck of information on a medical issue) and I would read about these kids with brain tumors.  Some good stories.  Mostly very bad.  And several things went through my mind.  One, that I would beg and plead that this would never be "our story".  Pleading that this could happen to someone else but please please please, not us.  Which made me feel terrible.  And two, I just have had such a hard time praying.  For what?  What do I pray for?  The words just didn't come - and I would just snuggle Sprout and think and hope that someday I would have the joy of rocking HER babies to sleep one day.  That her life would be full and long and that we would be together forever.  So my mind has been very distracted for months.  I have slept more this week and felt more exhausted than I have in a long time.  Funny how releasing stress can do that to you.

Diagnosis is a process and eventually we'll figure out if this a "normal" developmental thing for her which is clinically insignificant, or if there is some greater significance to it.  Time will tell and we are doing our best to advocate for her so that her development is not hindered.  We have more appointments scheduled and we have an amazing neurologist who is caring for Sprout with a conservative and watchful eye.  She is a really special little girl.  I can't begin to describe how much the FOUR of us, her sisters, father and I, absolutely adore her.  I know that God has us in His hands and is taking care of our needs and will continue to carry us through each and every day.  It took me many many many many weeks to get to a point of just trusting - I knew / I know that I can not change whatever it is and so my worrying about it only takes energy away from doing the things I should be focusing on.  A lesson I'm growing to find more comfort in...and I guess, easier said now, now that our circumstances seem more positive than negative.

So, I thank you for your patience, and your prayers.  I am so incredibly blessed to work with some shop keepers, retailers and other industry folks and all of you who have been so supportive.  I can't tell you how much I appreciate the prayers we have shared over the phone together and via email.  It has given me strength on many days when I just didn't have any.

Winners?  Oh yes!  Birthday winners...here they are! {thank you random.org}

The Set of 6 Two Peas Sewing Patterns - Winners Choice  

#35 - Catie, on March 24, 2011 at 8:32 am said: Edit Comment

Happy Day – and many more The stash of goodies is fab I have brownies in the oven to take to the gals at the Vet’s – they are so nice and helpful We lost one of our boys Christmas eve they were awsome

Cheers Catie

Pocket Full of Posies Apron handmade by me #42 - Maria M, on March 24, 2011 at 9:04 am said: Edit Comment

I already follow you on facebook!

Surprise package of fabrics and notions and sewing goodies #79 Kristina, on March 24, 2011 at 4:15 pm said: Edit Comment

Random act of kindness number 2  Thanks for running this giveaway! It is super!

I will email each of you soon to get your birthday goodies on their way to you!  {pardon the crummy formatting - Wordpress is not cooperating today.  Hrumpf!}

xoxo,

Trish

A new blog feature I hope to post as I can...Monday Mornings Inspiration.  Just a look at many of the fabulous artists in our crafting community and what inspires them.  Mentors and friends - people I admire and enjoy their art - and I want to share that with you.  There is an artist in each of you, there really is.  Don't say, "Not me" because YES!  You!  Enjoy these posts and then look for what inspires you.

My first feature is with the wonderful Jayne Barnes of Honeyrun Farm.  Jayne and her husband are master artists with their hands, the soil beneath their feet and what they produce from their farm.  My roots being strongly planted in agriculture and the environment, it is a pleasure to share Jaynes art and inspiration with you today.  {I can attest that you haven't tasted honey until you've had Honeyrun Farms honey - it is quite simply, the best ever!}

Here is our interview with Jayne:

1) Since the feature is called Monday Mornings Inspiration, can you tell me what inspired you to a career / hobby in farming and crafting? I grew up on a small dairy farm and always loved being outside.   I studied Sociology in college, and I never thought I would one day earn a living from farming.... but here I am!  My husband I and are both from farm families and we kind of just fell into beekeeping after I gave him a hive one year for Christmas.  What started as a simple hobby has turned into a bit of an obsession!  I love doing crafty projects, so living on a honey farm allows me to enjoy the farm life while also creating useful items from the hive and garden.

2) What continues to inspire you each day and how do you keep your art fresh? Farming follows the seasons of course, so there are always changes that dictate how our days go and what we are doing.  In the Spring, we are busy working in the greenhouse, preparing the garden for planting, and checking the hives to make sure they are strong and healthy.  The summer is our busy season with honey extraction, produce and flower harvesting, and selling at farm markets.  In the fall we are harvesting heirloom pumpkins, fall honey and bee pollen, and making sure the hives have enough honey to last the winter.  In the winter, we still keep busy making beeswax candles and handcrafted soap.

3) What 3 words best describe you?  People say I am practical, laid-back, and content.

4) What could you not live without to get through each work day?  Your phone/computer or your coffee? Computer!  We actually don't own a TV so I get all my info/news from the computer.  Also, as a stay-at-home mom, Facebook is my contact with the adult world.  :)

5) What is the best part of your job as a farmer/crafter? Getting to do what I want every day!  That is the pleasure of owning your own business.  I do think we work harder than if we worked for someone else... we have longer hours and work on weekends, but we wouldn't trade it for a day job.  When you grow up watching your parents run a farm, it just feels like what you're "supposed to do"... know what I mean?

6) What advice would you offer to someone when it comes to living a creative life? Follow what you love... don't do things because other people are doing it or it looks like it can make money.  Only do it because you love it. 7) What can we expect to see from you in the coming year in terms of new projects and design? We are experimenting with all sorts of new infused honey flavors:  vanilla infused honey, chocolate whipped honey, cinnamon infused..... etc.. etc...

Thanks Jayne for sharing your inspirations!  Check out Jayne's fabulous products on their website and follow their family farming adventures on her blog.

xoxo,

Trish

PS I promise to get to the Birthday giveaway very very soon...our family has a big week ahead of us. Hoping for nothing but positive results and I will sort through your comments soon and post winners later this week!

Happy Birthday to ME! {my birthday gift to you!}

Sigh.  Today is my birthday.  It's a big one.  {That's me when I turned 5.  A child of the 70's.  Listening to a vinyl record with my head phones that had this super long cord so I could dance around the room} When I went to Starbucks yesterday to spend my free drink birthday coupon, the girl says to me, "Oh enjoy it!  Your thirties will be great!".  I thought I would cry.  "Sweetheart," I replied, "I did enjoy my thirties".

With each year that I get older, my children also age with me which does make me a wee bit sad.  There's a picture I took several years ago and I so distinctly remember that day.  It was a casual afternoon, lounging on our front porch swing in the shade, eating ice cream and the sun was gorgeous.  We had been swimming.  The sounds and smells of that day are still very vivid in my memory.  I remember thinking then and still do now, that I pray that heaven is just like that day, like many days I've enjoyed with my kids.  It was so simple - laughter, sunlight, pure joy.  Just pure joy.

Now, I know!  You're saying, "You're turning 40 not dying!!".  I know, I know!!  But, it's not that I'm thinking of it in that way - what I'm thinking is that as you get older, what used to be important just doesn't seem to matter as much anymore.  You do have a perspective that is different from when you were in your 20's and you do find that simple pleasures and moments have such a deeper meaning.  I find myself relishing those moments more.  Not sweating the small stuff as much.  As I had reinforced at work recently, being in the moment. The slogan they told us to remember is "Be Here Now".  I find myself doing just that so much more often as I get older than I did when I was younger.  Being fully present in the moment.  Listening, feeling, being observant fully of the moment and treasuring it.  And in those moments, I do dream of the everlasting life that Christ has promised us.  And I smile widely.

SO...let's celebrate!

I've got a giveaway to offer to you!  Several in fact!  This birthday giveaway is open until Sunday night, March 27th, 2011 at midnight.

Birthday gift #1 : Winners Choice of 6 of my sewing patterns

Birthday gift #2: A Pocket Full of Posies Apron made by me (not in these exact colors but it will be super cute, promise!)  I wear an apron virtually everyday as I cook and clean at home.  Love them!

Birthday gift #3 : Stash of goodies!  A surprise bundle of fabrics and buttons and patterns and fun things for you add to your stash!

3 fun Birthday gifts for you!  Here's how you can enter...leave a separate comment for each one.  You can have up to 5 entries!

1)  Tweet this giveaway, something like "Happy Birthday to YOU! Check out the Two Peas Birthday giveaway at http://twopeasinapoddesigns.com" @trishpreston {use my @name so I can follow you!}

2) Blog about this giveaway.  Leave your blog address here in your comment so we can all come visit you

3)  Post this giveaway as your Facebook status and/or follow Two Peas in a Pod Homegrown Designs on Facebook.

4 & 5) My birthday wish and worth two entries - a random act of kindness.  What?  I love doing this!  Our local radio station suggested buying the person behind you in the drive-thru line at Starbucks, etc, a cup of coffee - paying for their order.  I did that and it just makes you smile!  A few weeks ago - it happened to me!  I pulled up and the clerk said the person in front of me had paid for my coffee!  Weeks later, that still fills my heart with joy.  So incredibly nice!

So for two entries - perform a random act of kindness in celebration of YOUR birthday - of this year of our lives.  Buy someone a cup of coffee, take a meal to a friend who is in need, send a special note to a favorite teacher telling them you appreciate them, etc.  Then, tell us - INSPIRE US - with your act.  (For your second entry after you share - you can just leave a note that says "Random Act #2).

Go forth and Celebrate this day that the Lord has made!  Yea!  See you back here Monday morning for the giveaway winners, some Monday Morning Inspiration and next week - that belt and more flower tutorials!

xoxo,

Trish

Blooms and Blossoms - Fabric flower wreath

This is the first in a multi - part series.  How many parts?  I don't actually know just yet because one idea has been exponentially multiplying How many will I end up and share...depends on how long my fingers hold out with all the typing and photo editing!  {wink!} I think it's safe to say that almost everybody greets Spring with a few fresh decorations at your doorstep.  A wreath, a new welcome mat, lawn ornaments, something...right?  Well for the fabric obsessed out there, this one should satisfy.

Start with 1/2" - 1" strips of fabric, felt, some jewels (I found mine in the scrapbook section of our craft store), a glue gun, and wreath.

I cut my strips 6" and 8" in length to make two different size little flowers.  Take each strip, put a dot of glue on the end and glue your ends together making fabric links.  

Take 4 of your links and stack them.  Take a small scrap of fabric and tie them together in the center and then pull them to create a little flower.  Add some bling bling to the center.

Next, take a 1" strip about 40" long and make a loose kind of fan with - folding the fabric back and forth and using dots of glue to hold in place and then glue to a piece of felt.

Make 2 of those "fans".   Layout your "fans" and your little flowers and see how you'd like them arranged on your wreath.  I also added some grosgrain ribbon behind my flowers.  Then glue everything in place.

I added a strip of fabric wrapped around the wreath, added a little bunny and a voila!  A new Spring wreath!  You could even make these little scrappy flowers and glue them to barrette backs to wear in your hair too!

I had an older easter wreath with eggs and I hung it in the center of my new wreath...not sure if I like it but...I'll probably be too lazy to change now.  

Up next in the Blooms and Blossoms series...a fringed flower and cute belt tutorial!!  {LOVE!!}

xoxo,

Trish

Sewing Bee - Two Peas Style

The Girls of Gahanna...invited me out to teach a class on stitching up a Hazel Hipster over the weekend.  Sweet bunch of ladies and they rocked it!  I was so impressed how quickly they moved through this project and they all turned out great {well, you'll have to take my word on it - this iphone photo doesn't do them justice}.

Thanks so much girls!  Fab new bags for Spring - love it!

Learn more about hosting your own Two Peas Sewing Bee here.

This week...loads of fun blooms and blossoms tutorials and ideas!  Get ready!

xoxo,

Trish

Carrot Treat bag {spring treats tutorial}

Oh, I know...I said, "come back this week and..." we'd be chatting about flowers and we will.  VERY soon.  All kinds of little posies and fun ways to use them! BUT I realized I had this cute little treat bag and with the Easter holiday just weeks away - yikes!  Thought I'd share it first so you could crank a few out for your wee ones!  It's a pretty quick project - an hour or less!

Designed to hang on the back of a chair but you could easily add a full length strap to this little carrot bag and turn it into a cute Easter purse.

Materials needed include orange and green fabrics plus additional for the lining {scraps or fat quarters would suffice}, some heavy fleece interfacing {again, some scraps or single fat quarter is enough}, 24" of velvet ribbon.

I made two different versions.  Options are:  1) A green leafy top as one piece and standing up OR a green leafy top that lays down and is cut into strips.  2)  Plain carrot OR decorative stitching on carrot to add texture.  3)  Ribbon handle stitched into the bag OR ribbon handle stitched on the outside of the bag.

Ready?  Here goes...

1)  Print the pattern.  I've designed this to be printed on a legal size sheet of paper.  Click on the picture and then print.

Cut 2 from your orange exterior fabric.  Cut 2 from your lining fabric.  Cut 2 of your interfacing - cut your interfacing at least 1/4" smaller than your orange exterior fabric.  Additionally, Cut 1 from the green fabric 21" x 6".

2)  Fuse your interfacing following manufacturers instructions to the wrong side of the orange exterior fabric.  If you wish to add the decorative stitching, do this now.  Stitch randomly back and forth, slightly curving.

3)  With right sides facing, pin your two orange exterior pieces together and using 1/4" seam, stitch around the long edges leaving the top of your carrot open.  Turn right side out.  Do you want your ribbon handle sewn into the bag with no excess hanging?  Now is the time to stitch the handle on - match raw edge of ribbon to raw edge of bag and stitch ribbon at each side seam.  If you like the look of the ribbon on the outside with some excess hanging, then the ribbon handle is added at the end.

4)  With right sides facing, bring your two short ends of the green fabric together and stitch together making a tube.  Your tube is 6" high.

Next, fold green fabric, wrong sides facing, in half as shown.  Now your tube is 3" high.

With right sides facing, pin your green tube to the orange exterior fabric around the top, raw edges matching.  Start by matching the seam of the tube to the seam on the carrot and pin. Next, finding the center point of your tube, pin that center point to the other seam.  Then, randomly tuck and create pleats and gathers with your green tube until it fits around the top of your carrot.  Pin in place and stitch green tube to carrot.

5)  With right sides facing, pin your two lining pieces together and stitch leaving your carrot top open as you did the exterior AND leaving a 3" opening along the side towards the bottom for turning.  Leave lining turned wrong side out.

6)  With lining turned wrong side out and orange exterior fabric turned right side out, take your orange exterior and put it INSIDE of the lining so that you now have right sides of the fabric from the exterior carrot and the lining facing.  Pin all around top.  Stitch.

7)  Next, pull your carrot exterior through the hole you left open in the lining.  Stitch lining closed.  

8)  Push your lining down into your carrot.  IF you have chosen to have a leafy green top stand up as one solid piece, well, then you are done!  Handle?  If you choose to have your handle on the outside, then stitch it at your side seams on the exterior of your bag now.

IF you have chosen to have a leafy green top that is cut into strips, randomly cut but not all the way in!  Leave about an 1" uncut.  Topstitch around the top edge?  Up to you...I topstitched the carrot with the cut leaves.  I did not topstitch the one with the solid leafy part.

Easy wasn't it?  Now, fill them with treats and hang them on the back of your child's chair after they have gone to bed and wait for the squeals of delight when they wake up in the morning!  Why wait for Easter!  Make it a fun Springy Saturday morning treat tradition all through Lent.

Have fun making these for your wee ones!  I'd love to see what you stitch up!  Share them over on my Flickr page or on the Two Peas facebook page.  Have your kids make one of these, a Baxter Bunny to put inside your carrot!

Next time - blooms and blossoms!

xoxo,

Trish

Thinking Spring...{of blooms and blossoms}

I've got Spring on the brain.  Just waiting for the cold winds to go back to where they came from and some warmer air to blow through our side of the world. I had asked before about things you'd like me to write about and one of my friends asked if I'd share a tutorial about how I make all of those little blooms and blossoms embellishments.  Simple, classic, been done for decades little blooms and blossoms...like these?

I use these on all kinds of things and I'll share with you very soon a whole bunch of ideas on how to use these blooms and how to make them.  Start gathering some materials!

You'll need some felt (used for the backings), hook and loop tape like velcro, pin backs, hair clips, headbands, d-rings, fabric, buttons and vintage baubles, and a glue gun.  (Plus your sewing machine and needle and thread).

Now, go gather up your gear and come back next week and we'll chat over some coffee and make some cute little blooms and blossoms, ok?  Cool!  See ya then!

xoxo,

Trish

Sneak a Peek - It's Sew Easy

I'm ready. Physically.

Emotionally, not so sure.

Let's be honest.  I'm nervous.  I've never been on TV before.  I never sought out to be on TV but when KS Productions approached me at Quilt Market this past fall in Houston, Texas about the possibility...well, who could say no!  I'm all about new challenges.  Experiencing whatever life has to offer.  My hope is that the show has much to offer and inspires YOU and brings JOY to your life and your crafting.

Seriously.  I know that may sound kinda cheesy but truly, I love seeing people learn to sew for themselves and creating things for people they love.  If you sew, you know what I mean.  There is a true delight found in sharing your creations with those around you, am I right?

Well, the latest press release has been posted here if you want to read about it.

A sneak peek?   OK!  Maybe just a tiny one!  I have a few samples that I'll be using on set for my segments.  I have some FABULOUS fabric friends who I'll be taking along with me.

I ADORE Jan DiCintio.  Jan is a one woman powerhouse - and protector of the earth.  Kindred spirits she and I.  Jan has a fabulous line of self produced GOTS certified organic cotton fabrics.  They feel great.  They sew up fabulously.  And I'm so excited to share them on the show with my samples.

And another woman I admire and deeply love her work - Jennifer Paganelli.  Jennifer has to be one of the most sincere and nicest women in the textile industry.  I really look up to her.  I use her fabrics all the time in my work and you can't ever go wrong with the infusion of color you find in SisBoom.  Jennifer has a new book out Girls World that I can not wait to get my hands on.  I was so pleased to have some of her Queen Street fabrics to work with.

So, that's it.  A sneak peek at my week...filming begins Monday!  EEKS!

xoxo,

Trish

Mystery Birthday Party

Well.  That's it.  My "Two Peas" have reached double digits. It amazes me to think that 10 years ago, the Gardener and I grew these two sweet little peas and experienced all the joy in having twins. They are compassionate, generous, sweet little girls who amaze me everyday.  They are the happiest kids ever - and the Gardener and I love them to pieces!

For their big birthday celebration, we decided on a Nancy Drew Mystery party theme.  It was a blast!  I did find a few ideas online and a few ideas from some friends (thank you Krista and Sarah!)

We allowed for 2 1/2 hours for the party and it was timed perfectly.  Here's the low down on the shindig:

1) Invitations. I used a cover from a Nancy Drew book as the cover and inside was an envelope with the invite.  The kids loved this!

2)  The Party Table: Cake baker I'm not the best but the blob in the center on the tray is supposed to be a magnifying glass.  Marshmallow appetizers.  Candy buffet.  What's not to love?  I found the books in the trash on trash day in my neighborhood.  What?  They were perfect and in a bin of books they were throwing away...can you believe it?  I stacked a few on the table and my police officer / park ranger hubby provided us with some special crime scene tape.  Add a few tools of the trade, busts of my two peas...I think it turned out pretty cool.  Each pea had her own cake plus cupcakes for the guests (the cupcake wrappers are from Wilton - so cute!)  Cute green dot fabric left over from covering our chairs at Quilt Market.  

Our cupcake table had a simple display of the peas, more candy and some mystery books!  I also added a few tissue paper flowers for color!

3) Activities and Craft. American Girl has these awesome craft kits out that we love!  We started with making some flower centerpieces that the girls could use at home to hide a hidden camera or listening device in - you know, pretend!  I saved up my cans and we used those as our vases.  They absolutely loved making these - huge hit!

Then we played a game of skill...the girls had to pick up binder clips and keys from the floor using a string tied to a pencil with a safety pin on the end.  You know, because Nancy Drew never knew when she would have to retrieve a key tossed down a sewer drain or something.  Then, a game of observation.  A tray of objects they would get a few seconds to look at it.  Then I would take it away and Sprout would take one object away.  The girls had to write down what was missing.  And we did this removing about 5 or 6 objects.  They wrote down their observations in their investigation journals I gave each girl.  Big hit!

Then we put our new skills to work in solving the mystery!  The mystery involved a missing sock monkey that had a hidden map on it left by an old Great Aunt and it revealed where she hid the majority of her estate treasures.  Problem is there were two family members who didn't want to share and so there was a lot of sneaking going on...clues, witnesses to interview, chase down...there was a lot of running, squeals of delight.  It was so much fun!  They even found an old Last Will and Testament that had been torn up and they had to tape it together to find a missing clue.  Buried bottles with notes, secret clues in the garden...and finally the main culprit, hiding up in the tree in our woods, trying to keep people away while he was searching for the treasure.

Our culprit led them to the hidden treasure in our woods which turned out to be their treat bags - they consisted of a small bag of candy, a flashlight, a magnifying glass and a pair of glasses with a fake nose and moustache attached (ya know, because every great detective needs a good disguise).

Remember the books I salvaged from the garbage?  I used a few pages to create the tags on their treat bags.

The best part...my peas said that in fact this was NOT the best party they've ever had...because EVERY party we've had for them is the BEST PARTY!  That made me happy...I'm so glad they have enjoyed all these parties because my guess is...having fun little parties with games like this and little treat bags will start to disappear as we now move up in the 'double digit' years.  This was a lot of fun for the entire family and the kids even said it was one of the best parties they had ever been too!  You'll have to try it for your next party!

xoxo,

Trish