Giraffikiki Kids

She's Back!

2010-05-14T10:26:00.000-07:00

No, I am not talking about me, although it has been 3 weeks since I posted! I needed a few weeks to rejuvenate after Provence. :)

I am talking about the wonderful shop on etsy, SpaTherapy. She was off on maternity leave but is back with her wonderful products. I just placed my order today!!!! The facial scrub is heavenly and I'm trying a toner this time too. Be sure to check her out!

SOLD OUT!

2010-04-25T07:53:00.000-07:00

Our SpringHill line and some of our Provence line is now sold out. If you still want one of these pieces, you can email us to place a back order or visit our store here to place a back order. Thanks for all of your support! :)

What a sweet smile

2010-04-12T08:03:00.000-07:00

When I opened this picture, it just made me smile too. What a sweetie! Beautiful photography by Julie of UpperCasePhotography. In this pic is our Peasant Dress in Sage Bouquet, Provence Headband in Sage Dot, and Sage Dot Ruffles. I am hoping for the release of the entire "Provence" line on Wednesday. :)

The Solution

2010-04-09T06:53:00.000-07:00

Earring wearing has always been a problem for me. I just cannot stand them in my ears and after about an hour I always end up taking them out. I have tried purchasing very expensive hypo-allergenic earrings and still cannot stand to wear them. For the last 6 months I have barely worn earrings and now my holes are starting to grow over. I always want to wear earrings to match my outfit but honestly it is not worth the aggrevation! So luckily this week I came upon a site that has awesome clip-on earrings. I always pictured clip-ons as these big gaudy things grandmas used to wear but these are just so delicate and sweet and I love the magnet back. SuzyMeiMei on etsy has a ton to choose from. You can find her here.

These ones are a pretty petal pink, which reminds me that I have another sneak peek for you. Here is our Tuxedo Dress in Petal Pink, with Petal Pink ruffles:

Cuuuuutie!

2010-04-07T06:55:00.000-07:00

Here is another little sneek from "Provence". Isn't this little one the cutest! You can check out more work from the talented Andrea Burns here.

Ruffle Bloomers in Petal Pink

Bounty

2010-04-06T11:23:00.000-07:00

We had a splendid Easter weekend here. Lots of sunshine and warm weather. It just didn't seem right to be wearing shorts and a tee at the beginning of April in Canada but I am definitely not complaining! Reilly got to participate in three, yes three!, Easter egg hunts. The treat drawer is just teeming with candy! Below is his little crafty Easter basket. You blow up a balloon, glue pretty tissue paper squares all over it, wait a few days and then deflate the balloon. Then you want to take some scissors and cut a pretty edge and make a hole on each side to attach the pipe cleaner handle. Next year Reilly wants to use a bigger balloon so his basket can hold more eggs (and more candy!).

I also got a nice Easter surprise. Some pics of our "Provence" line that will be available next week! Here is a little sneak peek of one of our pieces for baby:

Thank-you, Andrea, for the amazing pics! More to come!

Chagrin

2010-03-31T07:59:00.000-07:00

Hope that you are having a better day than little Genghis!

Yummy!

2010-03-26T08:53:00.000-07:00

Don't these look good enough to eat! I'm not sure if I could actually have these in my house because I think a curious 6-year old might try to take a nibble and would be in for a nasty surprise. These soap licorice are just one of the many fun products that LoveLeeSoaps has created. I love browsing through her creations - it is bound to make you smile!

Smiles are needed around here. Reilly and Genghis collided last Saturday night and now poor Genghis is on pain meds and antibiotics and is wearing a cone! He is so embarrassed, especially when he encounters other dogs on our walks. Reilly just feels horrible and the cone is a constant reminder to him that he hurt his little buddy. I would post a pic of the cone but every time I try and take a picture, Genghis turns away almost like he really is embarrassed of the thing. Poor Genghis! Here's to a speedy recovery.

"Provence"

2010-03-19T09:25:00.000-07:00

Our "Provence" line will be available mid-April. This time we are also adding something for boy and baby! Check back for some sneak peeks!

Something Very Fab for Fab Find Friday

2010-03-19T09:17:00.000-07:00

I have been looking at redoing Reilly's room and had thought about painting a scene or something on his wall. Only problem is.... I am not so talented with the painting. Luckily I came across these awesome vinyl wall decals. Now I want to do my whole house in them! Hubby has wisely limited me to Reilly's bedroom and I think this is the one I am going with:

Now to choose the colours! You can find this wall decal here and many more awesome ones here.

A helping hand

2010-03-12T13:36:00.000-08:00

Today's Fab Find was forwarded to me by a friend. It is a beautiful bracelet kit by the talented Kaari Meng of French General. My friend knows what a fan I am of French General and this bracelet is all for a good cause - haitibyhand. Haiti by Hand is an etsy shop established to showcase and sell the handcrafts of the Haitians, as well as a shop to sell items donated by artists and crafters who want to help this group of Haitians rebuild and establish themselves after the devastation of the earthquakes.

You can find the bracelet kit here and other items for haitibyhand here.

Something for your tastebuds

2010-03-10T08:53:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was such a beautiful day here. I was actually out gardening with just a sweater on and I was actually hot. Yes, this is Canada in early March and I am outside with no coat or mitts or toque and I am sweating!

After all that labouring in the garden, I decided to something quick for supper - my smokey cheddar cauliflower soup. Now I am one who very loosely follows a recipe. I have listed the actual recipe but put in brackets how I actually made the soup. It does change each time :o).

Smokey Cheddar Cauliflower Soup

- 2 tbs of butter

- 1 chopped onion

- 1 head of cauliflower loosely chopped 

- 1 10 ounce can of condensed chicken broth 

- 2 1/2 cups of milk

- 1/4 cup of flour

- 4 pieces of bacon

- 2 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar

* Heat the 2 tbs of butter in a large pot until melted.  Add onion and cook until translucent (about 4 min.).  

* Add chopped cauliflower and cook about 2 minutes.  Then add the can of condensed chicken broth.  (I actually don't use the canned stuff.  I get either the chicken or vegetable powdered broth from our natural foods store to avoid the msg.  I then just run the tap until the water is hot and add about 1 1/4 cups of water to 1-2 tbs of broth and stir.  Add this mixture to your soup).

* Cover and cook cauliflower in the broth on mdm temperature for about 20 minutes or until soft.

* Meanwhile, in a bowl add flour slowly to the milk stirring the whole time.  I also cook my bacon now (in a frying pan but you could probably nuke it too) and set it aside.

* Once the cauliflower is soft, add the milk/flour mixture.  Bring to a boil and stir until the mixture thickens slightly.

* Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar. (The recipe says 2 1/2 cups but I never measure. I just break off a chunk of the block and shred it up.  I think I probably add more than 2 1/2 cups because Reilly likes his soup very cheesy).

* Pour the cauliflower cheese mixture into a blender and add your bacon (yes I realize adding the bacon diminishes the fact I don't use msg broth - but I do buy my bacon from the local butcher and it tastes so good!).

* Blend on low for about 1 minute.  Pour into bowls and garnish with yogurt or some more shredded cheese.  Serve with baguette or grilled garlic toast.

Enjoy!

It's back!

2010-03-05T09:29:00.000-08:00

Okay, so Fab Finds Friday kind of fell by the wayside last summer with our busy "kid home for the summer" schedule. But, I am vowing to bring this back and keep it going. There are so many awesome, creative ideas out there that I see every day and I want to share them with people. If you see anything neat that you want to share, feel free to post the link in comments!

Today I was inspired by a little birdie I heard in a tree. A brave little robin has already arrived back and I said a little prayer for him that there will be no further snow storms to make him regret his decision! The robin's song is the most beautiful thing to hear after 4 months of snow. Spring is just around the corner!

This robin is brought to you by stayawake. Be sure to check out her Etsy store. So many cute little finger puppets.

And, oh yes, I should tell you that we are working on our website today so it will be unavailable all day. If there is something that you HAVE to have, go to etsy or just send us an email. Happy Friday!

Brand Spankin' New

2010-02-19T10:33:00.000-08:00

The blog got a little update thanks to the very talented Timi of Cinnamon Girl Studio. Timi has revamped my blog a few times now and everytime she just wows me!

A little peace and tranquility.....

2010-02-19T10:15:00.000-08:00

Ahhhh..... all of the SpringHill pre-orders are out. After all the chaos of the last few weeks, I took some time on my walk with Genghis this morning to just sit and enjoy the quiet by the pond.

Doesn't this view just make you feel so calm? Well, maybe if you aren't used to snow it might just make you feel cold, lol.

Here is our little Genghis enjoying the snow on our walk. Only a few more weeks of snow so we are enjoying every minute of it!

Thankful!

2010-02-09T12:45:00.000-08:00

I am so thankful to you all for making our SpringHill line such a success. We are busy working on the orders and will let everyone know when the pieces are about to ship.

Julie from UpperCasePhotography was instrumental in bringing this line to life with her beautiful photography. Here are just a few of her amazing pics:

Can't wait to work with you again, Julie! :)

SpringHill is up and a Contest Winner!

2010-02-01T06:25:00.000-08:00

SpringHill Pre-Order is up and running! It is available on etsy and on our new website at www.giraffikiki.com.

And we have a SpringHill contest winner. Number 111 was selected by random number generator (random.org) and that mailing list member is Tracie Faler! Congratulations Tracie! I will email you later today regarding your free piece from SpringHill.

And now for some eye candy courtesy of the talented Julie from Upper Case Photography and Tammy from Tammy Wahl photography.

SpringHill Pre-order starts next Monday!

2010-01-27T09:34:00.000-08:00

Pre-Order will start next Monday, February 1st and will run to Friday, February 5th. Some pieces are limited so get ready!

The Inspiration

2010-01-27T09:31:00.000-08:00

Our Spring 2010 line was inspired by something very near and dear to us .... SpringHill Farm. This property has been in my husband's family for four generations and I feel truly blessed that we are now able to raise our family here. It is not much of an actual farm...just 3 acres nestled into suburbia...but it is truly a magical place.

This here was the old milkshed which backs onto the pond. I always thought it looked like a little hobbits home the way it is folded in between the trees.

Here we have some of the bounty from our gardens, Gooseberries, rasberries, currents, strawberries - yummy! And my favourite time of the year is when my peonies erupt into flower. The heavenly scent!

A little peek-a-boo to the pond where we spend hours in the spring and summer catching frogs during the day and watching for fireflies at dusk.

And here is the old homestead. Although this place is a nightmare to heat I just love all the old wood and archways.

For us the below quote is so fitting:

"A man travels the world over in search of what he needs, and returns home to find it."
-- George Moore

Tammy Wahl....

2010-01-21T03:42:00.000-08:00

is just fantastic! I was looking for someone to photograph my spring line and was referred to her by another photographer. What could be a better referral right?! Well, I have not been disappointed. Not only does, she have amazing backdrops (being that she is one of the lucky souls to live off the beach in Hawaii!), but her shots are awesome, she is conscientious, quick, friendly....I could go on and on! You must check out her blog including the amazing photo that she did for the MJ Photo Love Contest. Here is a little linky to her blog: http://www.tammywahl.com/blog/

And another little sneak peak of a piece she shot for our SpringHill line:

Click on the pic to see a larger image.

I'll have a post next week on our other fabulous photographer, Julie from UpperCasePhotography!

Website and Pre-Order!

2010-01-19T09:48:00.000-08:00

Yay! Our website is almost finished and we should have it up and running by the last week of January. That means you will be able to pre-order SpringHill as early as the end of January! I will have more details on the exact dates that we are going to run the pre-order. It will only run for one week and you will find some great savings - like dresses at approx. $40, tops and skirts at approx. $30, and bottoms at approx. $24. Wow! We will also run the pre-order on Etsy but at slightly elevated prices to account for the fees there.

And I couldn't do a post without including a pretty picture. Here is another little sneak peek provided by the talented Julie Wagoner of UpperCasePhotography!

Click on the pic to enlarge.

Happy Friday and a Chance to Win!

2010-01-15T09:18:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday all! I am so happy that the weekend is finally here. Just thought I would throw in a contest to celebrate!

Join our mailing list before Saturday January 30th and you will be entered into a draw for a free piece from our SpringHill line. The added bonus of being on our mailing list is that you always get free shipping! The draw will be January 31st so don't be late! You can find the sign up at the bottom of this page.

And just a little sneak peek to entice you. This dress was shot by Tammy Wahl, and there will be more on this wonderful photographer later....

Click on the pics to enlarge.

:0) Shelley

We can learn so much from our children....

2010-01-11T09:23:00.000-08:00

"Even though I may be small, I have a big soul and I can accomplish big things with my life."

~ Reilly, age 6 - On being teased about being one of the smallest kids in his class.

He amazes me...

Happy New Year!

2010-01-02T07:12:00.000-08:00

Wishing you and your family a wonderful new year!

And just thought I'd throw in a little sneak of our SpringHill line. The line has just been sent off to be photographed by Tammy Wahl Photography & UpperCasePhotography. Be sure to click on the link under Amazing Photographers to check out their work. They are so talented! For now though you will have to make due with my poor photography, lol:

Enjoying the Snow

2009-12-30T15:13:00.000-08:00

Hope that you had a wonderful Christmas!

And Finally Winter!

2009-12-10T10:58:00.000-08:00

After a beautiful November, winter has finally decided to arrive here with a bang. Yesterday grass outside and today this .....

I'm not complaining. It is just in time for Christmas. However, it doesn't really inspire the spring line I am working on, lol. Time to put on some summer tunes and turn up the fireplace to get it nice and balmy in here.

Hope you are having a wonderful winter day wherever you are!

Spring Line in the Works!

2009-11-20T05:45:00.000-08:00

Fabric is purchased and we are getting excited! The line should be available on Etsy mid January and we will be offering a pre-order discount to our mailing list. Our mailing list members also get free shipping - so get on that list!

Some Changes!

2009-11-05T08:17:00.001-08:00

Okay, it has been September since I posted here! That is very sad! However, during this time I decided a few changes needed to be made to the business. Over the past 2 years I have felt that Giraffikiki had a bit of a split personality, lol! We had our Etsy line and then we had the pieces that we did for Ebay. To be honest, the main reason I stayed on Ebay was because of my awesome group mates in Sugar3. These gals are just such a wonderful, sweet, talented, professional (I could go on and on....) group of women that I just DID NOT want to leave them! However, the truth is that I just love designing my Etsy pieces way more! I get excited when new fabric lines come out and lay in bed thinking of all the fabric combinations. Ebay is a whole different animal which more involves thinking up a concept and then creating "artwear" as I like to call it. For me, it is just not what I love to do. Chacun son gout!

That being said, my mom and I (along with my aunt) are going to be making this more of a family business and will be coming out with a line for spring. We are very excited! We hope to have the line available in February and it will be available locally as well!

Stay tuned! :)

Elf Holiday!

2009-09-18T06:38:00.001-07:00

Isn't pink the best color for Christmas! These two sets are perfect as sibling sets or to mix 'n match. You can find them here on ebay!

Summer Contest Winner!

2009-09-04T12:37:00.000-07:00

The winner of our summery contest is.... (drum roll please)............

Bri (brihsu)!

You are the happy winner of a totally custom 3-pc set! I will email you shortly and we can get started!

Thank you to all of my wonderful customers! You are truly appreciated and you make creating such a pleasure.

xo

It's Been a Busy Week!

2009-08-20T18:31:00.000-07:00

Actually I have had these sets done for a few weeks for Sugar3's Holiday Parade Launch & our very first mini Reveal, Sugar3's Halloween Costume Party. But they are now both up on ebay.

To see more pics of cute Clare, click on the pics!

Peace

2009-08-05T09:01:00.000-07:00

We just enjoyed the most peaceful week at the cottage. How could you not find this peaceful:

But now I am back and busy working on some customs and a few new things! Almost finished my set for the Holiday Parade guest launch Sugar3 has coming up. I really LOVE how this set is turning out. You will see the final result on the 18th!

July Winner!

2009-08-04T15:27:00.000-07:00

.....drawn just moments ago by Reilly.... is Jen (misvivismommy)!

Jen, you win a piece from our ChocoLatte line. I will send you an email with pics for you to choose!

:) Shelley

July Give Away!

2009-07-17T08:06:00.001-07:00

Sorry, I have been tardy getting the July giveaway up! For this month, I will be giving away a piece from our ChocoLatte line. This line will be available for sale shortly - but the July draw winner will get to chose whichever piece they like from the line. A skirt, a dress, tights - whichever you want! - and it will be made to custom fit your little cutie! For every $20 of a won ebay auction or etsy purchase, you will get one ticket in the draw. For more details on our Summer Giveaway click on the link at the side. :)

Here is a Sneek Peek!

Lil Old Woman

2009-07-17T07:53:00.000-07:00

I love not only how this set turned out, but I LOVE Christine Kufske's photography (be sure to check her out on the link at the side of my blog).
This comfy 2-pc set is just perfect for back to school. The cropped length looks so cute with a pair of lace up boots or high tops, but these Euro cut pants can also be done full length. Available as a custom set in sizes 2-7 here!

This was a fun collaboration with Jamie of **jjbb** and Tracy of creme*de*la*gems. You can find Jamie's sweet bows here and Tracy's awesome bling here.

Oh Yay! This set just one Auction of the Day on thisisboutique.com!

And the June winner is....

2009-07-09T05:59:00.000-07:00

And the winning ticket drawn by Reilly ......... Kim B.!!! Yay Kim you are the winner of a whole lotta clippies! I will email you right away!

Congrats!

Enjoying summer

2009-07-01T07:19:00.001-07:00

Sorry I haven't been around much! We have been enjoying the fruits of summer. :) Hope you are too!

Apple Fairy

2009-06-17T07:43:00.001-07:00

Here is our latest design for Sugar3's Fall Fairies Launch. The set includes a hoodie dress and leggings and is available in sizes 2-7. Check it out here!

You need to also check out the Sugar3 blog where I am giving away a free reversable crayon apron!

Fab Finds Friday

2009-06-14T15:52:00.000-07:00

Late again but you must check out my fab find this week - this great little shop on etsy by Tamar.

First I fell in love with her ecclectic jewelery like this beautiful Crown Jewels piece.

But then found these wonderful crowns which would just be perfect for any little girls birthday.

And these would just be the sweetest decoration for a little girl's room.

You must take a look in this shop! But give yourself lots of time to browse around. There are so many unique little pieces - each one a work of art.

Ice Cream Treat...and a winner!!!!

2009-06-01T08:45:00.000-07:00

Just listed is our new 3pc design"Ice Cream Delight". You can find this sweet set here. :)

AND we are so excited to announce that our May winner of the twirl skirt is Mary R.! Congrats Mary!!!! I will email you shortly.

Now for June's prize - a whole lotta clippies! That's right 12 clippies created by local hair clippie extraordinaire - Maddiebells.

Fab Finds Friday!

2009-05-31T09:16:00.000-07:00

This week our fabulous finds focus on Ice Cream! Yummy!

These cookies look absolutely delicious! Created by cakeboxcookies, these are the perfect party favour!

These look delicious too but they're for the bath! Vanilla, chocolate and strawberry and they're handmade. What more can you ask for??? You can find these unique soaps here from CrazyKBathandBody.

These sweet hair clippies were created by BooBoosBowtique. They do look divaliciously delightful!

And the perfect scrapbooking kit to document your summery ice cream days. This kit was created by mypagedesigns. She has lots of great kits in her store.

And here is a sneak peak of our ICE CREAM design that we will be listing on ebay next Tuesday.

Forest Princesses

2009-05-21T04:13:00.000-07:00

We did a little mini launch in Sugar3 and I thought this set was just perfect for it. Who doesn't love fairy princesses???? You can find it here:

And it won this fun award from thisisboutique.com. You have to check out this site. It is amazing!

I think I'm the first recipient of this award! What an honour!!!!!! Hope you're having a great day too! :)

Tulip Garden

2009-05-14T09:42:00.000-07:00

Our newest set was created for Sugar3's celebration of May. A sweet 2-pc, the skirt was created using a beautiful and vibrant European poplin with an attached white embroidered cotton underskirt. The tank features hand cut and appliqued tulips in a variety of fun polka dots. Pretty little flower buttons have been sewn along the neckline and the tops gathers with ribbon on each side to change up the look. You can find our newest design here! :)

Sometimes as a Mom...

2009-05-09T13:21:00.000-07:00

... you have to trust that they know what they're doing. This maneouver didn't end up with any broken bones but tragedy was not overted ....

The Dolphin Princess ....

did lose her dolphin!

Spot the lost dolphin in the below pic and win some hair clippies! First to post the location wins!
Seriously these two could not find the dolphin for 10 minutes. They may need to go in to have their eyes tested!

Fab Finds Friday!

2009-05-08T03:59:00.000-07:00

The theme for this Fab Finds Friday is DIY!

Here is a great way to make a gift even more unique and personalized - create your own gift box! The design is downloadable (for $3) ;) from softpencil.

This seller has the greatest educational tools. My hubby who is a teacher was very impressed with this idea. TeenasTeacherTidbits has all sorts of educational games and teacher resources - all downloadable! Check this one out here.

These are just adorable. I want to make one of these for Clare! Check out bowlsnnannies - she has tons of great doll patterns. You can find these two cuties here.

I have been looking for something to do with my fabric remnants and I think I may have found the answer! This great quilt pattern by snugnluv looks like something I could handle. You can find it here.

Also be sure to check out snugnluv's blog at www.snug-n-luv.blogspot.com where I am giving away a free tier skirt!

Summer Contest!

2009-05-05T12:03:00.000-07:00

Our Summer Contest begins today!

Each $20 of your purchases counts toward 1 ticket. For example, the item costs $80 or you have $80 in purchases than you will get 4 tickets entered into the draw.

Each month, I will draw for a mini prize. For May the prize is this cute twirl skirt created from European poplin and beautiful white embroidered cotton.

The ticket for the monthly prize will be entered back into the draw for the 3-pc totally custom set.

Good luck to everyone!

Ahhhh Thanks!!!!

2009-05-05T11:59:00.001-07:00

The wonderful Shawnta of MamiGirlBoutique has bestowed upon me with this fun award. Thanks girl! I will be back to post my recipients!

Fab Finds Friday

2009-05-02T12:09:00.001-07:00

I meant to post this yesterday and forgot. Oops! This week I want to feature the most wonderful collaboration by a few of my Sugar3 groupmates. Like Fancy Nancy? Well Tracy, Susan and Angie did Fancy Nancy in style. I love this!!!!!

Here is Susan's (aka Little*Moonkey) adorable set. Hello gorgeous applique!

And Angie's (aka doodlesbowtique) amazing bow:

And Tracy's (aka creme*de*la*gems) unbelievable bling:

Super work ladies!

Fab Finds Friday

2009-04-24T12:31:00.001-07:00

I am back with Fab Finds Friday! I apologize, I have been a little busy with this! (Thank you to Gretchen for featuring my designs!)

Today's Fab Finds Friday is inspired by the gorgeous weather outside! Welcome spring.....thank you for finally showing up to stay! I know, looking back through my posts I have been fixated on spring but honestly our winter was SO long it is what I needed to stay sane!

Okay so on to the goodies....

Isn't this the most gorgeous cake! And so springy! This was created by Juanita of Sweet Things. Check out her blog for more delectible treats.

These adorable "Spring Bouquet" hair pins are just so bright and cheerful. Created by Palomina you can find these cheerful pins here on Etsy.

And last but not least, the store I have been stalking for months. I MUST have a pair of her shoes. These beauties are her "Spring Equinox" design and they may be the pair I choose for my first (but not last) purchase from HydraHeart. You can find them here.

Spring is in the air!

2009-04-02T10:44:00.000-07:00

And what better way to celebrate than with a new twirl skirt! Check out our new Tiered Twirl Skirts here on etsy!

Coming Soon to a Skirt Near You....

2009-03-22T05:24:00.000-07:00

We are just finishing up orders (thanks ladies for all your support!) and will be starting this week on some fun tiered ready to ship skirts. I am sitting here looking at the fabric and just can't wait to get started! There are going to be some fun color and fabric combinations!

Here are just a few of the combinations:

Fab Finds Friday #4

2009-03-20T04:38:00.000-07:00

With warm weather finally arriving here and the season officially here on Saturday, I am feelin' some spring fever. Which means I am in the mood to buy some fabric! Check out these 5 beautiful "spring" florals:

From Tina Givens "TreeTop Fancy" line:

From Jennifer Paginelli "Flower Power" line:

From Dena Designs "Snow Flower" line:

From Urban Chiks "Sweet" line:

From Lila Tueller "Soiree" line:

Fab Finds Friday #3

2009-03-13T08:12:00.001-07:00

Being that today is Friday the 13th and that next Tuesday is St Patty's day, this Friday is inspired by the luck of the Irish!

This gorgeous necklace was created by MamaBethBling.

Isn't this little guy the cutest! Meet Patrick the Irish Country Bear created by uncommonthings.

And this little bunny is Fioanna the Irish Bunny by bitsybots.

Clay Scraps has the cutest little figures in her store. Adorable!

Hope that you have a lucky week!

Friday the 13th - Make it a Lucky One!

2009-03-12T06:01:00.001-07:00

Click on the pic to go to the sale!

A Collaboration

2009-03-10T10:49:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to be creating sets for Miss Lauren and Miss Teagan! Last night they came over to pick out fabrics and it was so fun letting them "create" their own little designs. Watch soon for the "Lauren" pocket and the "Teagan" headband. :)

Miss Lauren's selections:

Miss Teagan's selections:

Those girls have great taste!

Fab Finds Friday #2

2009-03-06T07:06:00.000-08:00

These fab finds were inspired by our new LolliPop Princess line:

1. How about a little yummy hair bling for your little one? These hair cookies were created by Tracy of Creme de la Gems:

2. Now here are the real sweets. Amberlea at Cake Chic makes the coolest cakes and other sweet treats. Her little girl was also one our sweet models! Check out the shoe cake on her blog! Wow!

3. How about a little tea party for two? Check out this great Princess Tea Party pattern for making felt food by julyhobby.

4. My current favorite perfume is this wonderful Blue Sugar scent created by Flameworks. In her words: "The fragrance opens with a burst of Toasted Caramelized Sugar quickly yielding to woodsy Cedar and warm Tonka Bean. A heart of Patchouli, Licorice, French Lavender, Heliotrope and Coriander is revealed. Finally, Lilting notes of Italian Bergamot and Mandarin are balanced by Star Anise and Fresh Ginger". All I can say is that it is yummy!

5. This is the cutest gift idea for a baby shower - the baby washcloth Lollipop gift basket created by sweetcuddlecakes.

What fab finds have you made this week???

Check out this fun little game

2009-03-05T08:52:00.000-08:00

Check out "Theme Thursday" on Dorset Hill Bead's Blog. Our "Just Desserts" set is featured there! Can you guess the theme?

New Designs on Etsy!

2009-03-05T06:06:00.000-08:00

Our spring/summer designs are up on Etsy! You can find Prairie Wild Rose and Lollipop Princess here. Thank you to the wonderful Christine of Click Photography for photographing our latest pieces.

Fab Finds Friday!

2009-02-27T04:44:00.000-08:00

Well goodness knows I spend enough time searching the internet for unique finds. I thought it might be a good idea to share some of these finds with my friends! Every Friday (or at least I'll try for every Friday, wink) I'm going to post some things that may interest you. :) Please feel free to share with me!

1. Is this not the cutest for a little girl's room?! It is titled "Petites Princesses" and was created by GalerieAnais.

2. I want this dress! It will be so great for the summer. I like that you can kind of scrunch it up around the midsection to hide any imperfections ;) or fold it over to wear it as a skirt.

3. This is the greatest idea - leaf printed designs - and done so well! You have to check out sweet3leafprints - this store is the neatest!

4. I have been lovin' on this ring for months. I just have to find a reason for hubby to buy it for me.

5. A book every family should own.

Happy Friday!

Fairy Sweet's Twighlight Market

2009-02-11T14:49:00.000-08:00

Please join my design group, Sugar3, in visiting Fairy Sweet's Twighlight Market.

The Flower Fairy has come to town bringing her magical flowers. This crochet set is just perfect for Easter events! You can find this cute set here.

...and meet Fairy Sweet's new pal, Yardley Fisk!

Prairie Wild Rose

2009-02-11T14:47:00.001-08:00

Here is our spring line available on Etsy. Mailing list members get 10% off until Saturday!

An Outfit is Created

2009-01-16T08:14:00.000-08:00

Most often when I am creating a set I am definately driven by color and fabric rather than say a certain theme or using a certain pattern. For example, for Sugar3's Fairy Sweet launch I knew that I wanted to incorporate hot pinks and reds into the set. I then went on to decide on a theme and design.

Here are some "before and afters" of some of my current sets.

Before

After
Before

After

A little peak behind the scenes. :) You can find these two sets here on ebay.

Every little girl's dream

2008-12-29T12:19:00.001-08:00

My mom made this gorgeous doll house about 5 years ago and it has been enjoyed by many of the little girls in our family. What a masterpiece! There are so many amazing little details and she cross stitched the entire thing! Yes, that's right - the entire thing! It has now found a home in Clare's bedroom and she is so excited.

The Front

The Magic Inside

The Bedroom - The drawers open up!
The Ladies Room - the toilet seat goes up and down for when Ken comes over for a visit! :) Let's hope he remembers to put it back down!
Treasure in the Attic

(p.s. My mom is a crafting goddess!)

My Meme!

2008-12-16T08:08:00.000-08:00

I have been tagged by Megan to do a meme! I was directed to go to my 6th photo folder on my computer and post the 6th photo from that folder and to share the memory of that photo.

This is a pic of Reilly & Greg in our woods in the fall. We love going for walks in the woods - we find it such a peaceful and serene place. :)

I will be back shortly to tag 5 others!

And the winner of the Etsy draw is....

2008-12-11T07:50:00.000-08:00

repeatboutique158

Congratulations! I have sent you a refund for your highest priced purchase. :)

BNL Giveaway!

2008-12-07T08:35:00.000-08:00

We had such a great day yesterday! We all took Clare and Reilly to see the Barenaked Ladies concert. What a fun bunch of guys and what a great show! If you did not read my earlier rave about their amazing children's cd "Snacktime" you can check out the video for Reilly's favorite song below:

Check out “Pollywog In A Bog”:

You must buy their CD! It keeps everyone in the car happy with the music. :) And for one lucky winner, a free Snacktime CD! One of the songs on the CD talks about a missing number. The first to post the missing number wins the CD! As a hint, here is the list of the songs on the CD.

It has begun!

2008-12-05T04:46:00.000-08:00

Christmas Party Season is here! We had our first family Christmas party last weekend. Although the drive home was pretty daunting being that we were hit with a major snowstorm while we were inside enjoying the turkey, the kids and adults all had so much fun. It was great seeing you all! xo

Here's a little pic of Clare and Reilly after dessert and some chocolate kisses. The Christmas lights weren't the only thing lit up! 'Tis the season!

One last custom for '08!

2008-11-28T05:49:00.000-08:00

Here is our last custom set for 2008! I love how Cyndi photographed this set. Perfect for Valentine's Day or any day of the year, this set features a Momma Matryoshka pocket. Her two little girls are stuffed dollies that fit right inside the pocket! Momma and the two little girls can be any hair color that you like. :) You can find this fun set here.

A Giant Sale!

2008-11-22T05:25:00.000-08:00

We are having a giant SALE in our Etsy store! You'll find sample sets, some old favorites and some never before seen designs.

We will continue to add items over the next few days but you might want to grab what you like now! Just email us to let us know that you're still shopping.

And...a contest! All sales on Etsy from Nov 19th - Dec 10th will be entered into a draw to win a purchase! The winner will receive their highest priced item for free. (If you have already paid you will receive a paypal refund for the price of the item.)

Happy Shopping!

Young Love

2008-11-11T21:37:00.000-08:00

...a set created for Sugar3's Love Launch. I am so happy to be working with this wonderful group of ladies that it really inspired me for this launch. I just love how this set turned out! You can find this cute two-piece set here.

A huge thanks to Cyndi & Cayley from Colorful Heart Photography for the amazing pics. You can find Cyndi here. You will not be disappointed with her work!

A little surprise for you!

2008-10-23T07:39:00.000-07:00

For Your Little Elf

2008-10-14T16:47:00.000-07:00

Created for WisteriaLane's Organically Original launch, these fun hats are perfect for any little elf. Both hats and the scarf are made from organic and naturally sourced yarns. You can find them here!

Here it is...Jasmine Fields

2008-10-08T07:09:00.000-07:00

"Jasmine Fields"

A complete mix 'n match line. This line was a little time coming but we are so pleased with how the pieces turned out. We love, love, love it! We have even included a little something for mom! The skinny headbands can be made in toddler, child or adult sizes. :)

You can check out the whole line in our Etsy store by clicking here.

Sneek Peek!

2008-10-07T10:55:00.001-07:00

Here it is... a little sneak of "Jasmine Fields"....

I love these!

2008-10-07T10:48:00.000-07:00

Check out these sweet reversible crayon aprons. Your little one can go to pre-school in style! And I just love creating these - so fun! You can find them in our etsy store here.

CandyPop Garden is now on Etsy

2008-09-02T05:20:00.000-07:00

Check out our newest collection "CandyPop Garden" - available here on Etsy. To satisfy your little one's sweet tooth, this is a collection of candy inspired co-ordinates. More pieces will be added this week. For local customers, please contact us about where you can find these sweet pieces!

Here is a little sampling:

And we have a winner!

2008-09-02T05:18:00.000-07:00

Congrats to Laura who has won our BDAY Bonanza contest! Laura had the most points in the contest to earn the reward of $50 to spend as she pleases! Congrats again, Laura. We love working with you! :)

Whoo, Whoo?

2008-08-28T07:32:00.001-07:00

Wants to see a little something different ? ....

Check out this cute hoodie we created for WisteriaLane's "Out on a Limb" launch. Features our feathered friend peeking out from the back. This piece is part of our CandyPop Garden collection that you will find shortly on Etsy and in our Ebay store. You can find the hoodie here right now at a great price.

Here's a little peek at a few pieces from the line:

Little Artist

2008-08-12T18:51:00.000-07:00

This fun 2-pc set was created for WisteriaLane's CeCe My Playmate launch. I love this fabric! You can find our set here. :)

Come and Play!

2008-07-16T15:52:00.000-07:00

Since we are into designing our back to school sets, I was reminiscing with my friend about the excitement of the back to school shop. My friend, Tanya, and I used to go together every year with our moms and buy mix 'n match or matching sets. (Don't worry, we did stop this before highschool, lol!) Our favorite were the matching peach Esprit overalls.

Anyway, I want to hear from you! What is your most memorable back to school set? Was it the plaid gauchos with matching vest, a funky pair of jeans that you pinned at the ankle (what look were we going for with that one?)????? Please share!

Reilly has prepicked a lucky number and that post will win these lovely clips made by Beth of Pink Owl Creations. I absolutely love her pieces and I can tell you from experience that the quality is top notch! You can find her on etsy here.

Ready to Wear!

2008-07-15T09:17:00.000-07:00

We are very excited to introduce our Ready to Wear line on Etsy! You can check out our first offering from this line... the "Joli Jumper". These pretty Euro jumper dresses are perfect for the transition from summer to fall.

And be sure to check back tomorrow for our first contest of the Birthday Bonanza!

Here's what's new!

2008-07-08T14:05:00.000-07:00

We have two launches today that were both just so much fun to be involved in.

This first set is for WisteriaLane's Central Park launch. We each were to take a landmark, activity or memory of Central Park and use it as the inspiration for our set. Our set was inspired by the carousel in Central Park that has been in operation since 1871!

"Carousel" is a 3-pc set that includes the appliqued dress and comfy knit top & capris.

Our second set was created for PoppySt's Back to School launch. Thanks to the designers of PoppySt for asking us to guest! :)

"Teddy Bear's Picnic" is another 3-pc set that includes the Euro jumper, peasant top and flare leg cords.

We're Having a Party!

2008-07-08T04:15:00.000-07:00

To celebrate our 2nd anniversary we're having a little party...and you're invited!

Each week we will be having party games & prizes so be sure to check back here to play!

And there is a big kahuna of a prize....that's right $50 cold, hard cash. Here's how you play this one:

- Each bid on ebay gets 1 point
- Each winning bid on ebay gets 5 points
- Each BIN on ebay gets 5 points
- Each Etsy purchase gets 3 points

Starting from today, the customer that accumulates the most points between now and August 31st wins! It's that easy. Money will be sent to the winner's paypal account to spend as they please!

Be sure to check back next week for the first party game - we have some fun little clippies for you to win! :)

You must get this!

2008-07-04T17:06:00.000-07:00

The Barenaked Ladies children's album, "Snack Time" is just perfect for those long summer car trips to grandma's. Not only will it entertain the little ones, but you and hubby will have a laugh too! We picked this one up last night and we listened to it even when we were alone! Not many kids' albums you would want to do that with! The Ladies' lyrics are so witty. My fav is Pollywog while my hubby's is Popcorn .

You can hear some of the songs playing on my playlist. You will not be disappointed!

Just have to share...

2008-05-21T17:28:00.000-07:00

My latest sets featuring little Miss Megan! She is a natural for sure! :)

Three New Sets

2008-04-08T16:42:00.000-07:00

You can find these three new sets here! The first one "Tao of Pooh" I designed for ODOD's Playdate launch. The last two are for WisteriaLane's Pink Sugar launch. Search WisteriaLane on ebay to find all of my fellow WL designer's sets or click here.

Tagged!

2008-03-31T10:07:00.000-07:00

I have been tagged by three lovely designers, Tanya of xoxotava & Lesa of Isabel Inspired Designs and Holly of Peyton's Place Boutique. Love you gals!

I have to share 7 random and weird facts about myself.
1. I met my hubby while we were both teaching ESL in South Korea.
2. I have vertigo. I can't even drive on those high curving overpasses without having a mini panic attack.
3. I was attacked by fire ants once while I was backpacking thru Thailand. All I can say is "Ouch!".
4. I'm allergic to bee stings (I guess I have something with insects, lol)
5. I love seafood!
6. One of the most intriguing movies I have ever watched is "Waking Life" even though I have never once made it thru the whole movie without falling asleep thru part of it. You have to really put your thinking cap on for this movie. All that thinking really tires me out!
7. One of my least favorite movies is Titanic. How many times does Leo really need to go back on the ship!

Ok I now have to tag 7 others! And the lucky winners are....
1. Cinnamon Girl Studio
2. My Little Fairytales
3. Ollie Girl
4. The Vintage Pearl
5. Blowin Bubbles Boutique
6. Gock's Frocks
7. Lily and Ebony

Here are the rules:
1.Link your tagger and list these rules on your blog.2. Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird.3. Tag 7 people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as links to their blogs.4. Let them know they are tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

"Joy" and "Wildflower"

2008-03-30T04:43:00.000-07:00

Two new sets on Etsy! You can find them here.

Be Kind to the Earth

2008-03-29T16:55:00.000-07:00

And don't burn your houses down! Happy Earth Hour! :)

Tropicana

2008-03-21T16:26:00.000-07:00

Sea, Sand with a splash of sunshine...."Tropicana". You can find it here on etsy.

Some funnies from today

2008-03-20T18:12:00.001-07:00

"Spider dog, spider dog...friendly neighbourhood spider dog..." (You know there is trouble when things are very quiet in the next room. Poor Genghis!)

Teaching Reilly at a young age why good dental hygiene is a must!

Buddies

2008-03-20T18:08:00.001-07:00

Reilly and Charlotte hangin' out.

Tessa and her best buddy (well dog), our Genghis.

Melon Sorbet

2008-03-13T06:51:00.000-07:00

Another new listing on Etsy! Check it out here.

New Set and a Contest!

2008-03-12T16:42:00.001-07:00

Here is our latest set for WisteriaLane's Sailor's Knot launch. Classic with a touch of fun! Perfect for portraits, July 4th or any time a pretty little set is required. You can find it here.

AND we are having a great contest! Sign up for our mailing list between Mar 1/08 and April 30/08 and you will be entered into a draw for a free Marieke Euro dress - you pick the fabric! Sign up at the bottom of this blog.

I wish I was tall and statuesque

2008-03-10T05:34:00.000-07:00

So that I could wear this beautiful necklace:

But being that I am only 5'1" (and a half!)....just don't think I could carry it off. But for all of you women lucky enough to be over 5'5" you can find this gorgeous piece on etsy here. I just love this piece!

I'm yearnin' for spring!

2008-03-07T17:42:00.000-08:00

So, we had to create some bright, lively spring sets. You can find these ones in our Etsy store!

Le Cirque

2008-03-07T17:38:00.000-08:00

I love this whimsical circus fabric! Check out this sweet twirl skirt and shirred top - available on ebay here!

There are beautiful people in the world...

2008-03-05T09:42:00.000-08:00

...and one of them is my friend, Dawn. She created these awesome jeans for me:

Dawn, your creations are as beautiful as you are! :) Shelley

The fruits of our labour

2008-03-02T17:37:00.000-08:00

Greg & I decided that a backyard ice rink was a must to get us thru this winter. What we didn't realize was how much work it would be! We started at Christmas and it took us 2 weeks to get it skateable. Then every melt the surface must be recoated and every snow lots of shovelling! It's all worth it though when we lace on Reilly's skates and he hits the rink. You've never seen more glee!

Sweet Shop

2008-02-28T08:41:00.000-08:00

I found this great candy import fabric and was so excited! I knew it would be the perfect fabric with which to collaborate with some friends (and amazing accessory designers!). You can find all the great listings here, or by searching "boutique Sweet Shop".