luvinthemommyhood

back pain starts here - watch out for the heavy load :)

2010-03-11T10:32:00.000-08:00

hi guys, just a quick note to let you all know i won't be posting till monday. it seems as though my "my heavy load" aka - little bean, has decided to put some strain on my body and i had the pleasure of hurting my back. i went to put mackenzie in her car seat after a doc appointment yesterday and boink, there goes the lower back.

i'm now unable to walk, stand up straight and only moving to go pee. if you can imagine me 32 weeks preggo using a giant umbrella as a cane, hardly able to move, stuck at home with a soon to be 3 year old who is very, very bored, with a hubby who is an accountant who is working all day/night you would be getting an inside peek into my life at the moment. it's not fun, but hey, at least i can laugh at myself :)

thanks for all your emails yesterday and to those of you whom i haven't responded to, i will get back to you as soon as i'm able to sit on my computer longer than a minute or so (no labtop in our household).

hope you all have a great weekend and we'll see ya on monday :)

link luv roundup

2010-03-10T05:00:00.000-08:00

1) isn't this pic just lovely?
2 & 3) get the diy for these pretty wall decors from the shop ruche. the first wall is a natural peel-able fabric wallpaper and the 2nd is flowers made from butcher paper.

1) easter is on it's way and small mag has cute project for egg cosies.
2) add some color to a room with this tute on how to make a zippered throw pillow over on design sponge.
3) or make a sham style pillowcase with prudent baby.
4) i love the applique refashion for revamping a pretty tee over on blue eyed freckle.

ok, time to insert a lot of drool on my part. i heart anna maria horner and when this new pattern popped up in my reader i just about fell out of my chair. so lovely, i want, i need to have this pattern.....

1) ok, seriously people, is this not the cutest oven mitt? i went to go buy it and what a surprise, it was sold out - boo hoo. too pretty not to link to though. (via sfgirlbybay)
2) i am a huge fan of pickles, and no, i don't mean the kind you eat, though i love those too. this pretty waffle hat is next up on my hat knitting list. get the free pattern here.
3) i think this is a pattern for a reusable grocery bag that i might actually make!
4) i heart craft hope and heart even more that they have a book coming out! click here for more info.

- yippee! it's almost time for made by rae's "spring top week"! i cannot wait!!! while i'm not entering i love watching all the entries and seeing the winner of this popular contest!
- the purl bee shows us how to make some fresh spring napkins.

1) mique of thirty days has a great tutorial for this spring top for your little ones.
2) ummmmmm, these are adorable!!! (via a beautiful mess)
3) find out how to whip up a layered knit skirt for your little girl.

- this mama makes stuff has a darling little how to on making a baby bonnet from a hankie!
- want to find out how to line your drawers with pretty paper? young house love shows you how.

1) come and see the seitz has a nice tutorial for making your own cute pair of panties. looking for more of these? check out the roundup we did last year!
2) why not try your hand at making some pillows from vintage tea towels?
3) dana, do you ever sleep? haha! make some fun crafts for st. patrick's day over on made. love the split peas!
4) noodleheads shows you how to make a fold over bag, so pretty!

1) one of my new fave blogs "from an igloo" has got a lovely tute for making this scrappy clutch! i can't wait to make this one!
2) craftzine shows us how to make an easy ribbon rosette.
3) how cute is this idea for photo pencils from mary janes and galoshes?
4) got some corduroy kicking around waiting to be repurposed? why not try turning it into a pretty diamond wale pillow?

love megan has the loveliest tutorial for turning rope into this pretty yet simple necklace. what a great idea! (via craft gossip)

1) if you treasured pia jane bijkerk's first book you'll love her second "amsterdam made by hand". it's available for pre-order now.
2) threadbanger has a roundup right after my own heart! check out all the fingerless mitts - perfect for us stroller pushing mommas!!!
3) i love the simplicity of this quick leather bracelet. get the how to here.
4) jessica of happy together refashions a cardigan into this cute top.
5) i want to learn how to make these pretty knit vase cosies! (via decor8)

1) i can't wait to get a good look at the book "alabama studio style".
2) looking to make your own diaper changing pad that you can actually wipe down instead of wash? head here for the how to from my creative stirrings.
3) isn't this the cutest little bike basket? and yep, you can make one too! find out how to here. (via craft gossip)
4) turn those boot cut jeans into skinny jeans with this tute from mmmcrafts.

things i'm luving this week:

- this happy go lucky site all about what just made your day.
- anthropologie inspired refashion for the winding road tank.
- new free quilt pattern from oh fransson,
- get inspired from this gorgeous post filled with lovely packages.
- scared to try an invisible zipper like me? sew 4 home shows us how to get over our fears.
- we all long for anthropologie goodies enough already, now they are branching out into weddings!!! omg, how much more can we be expected to handle???
- making it lovely has a great post up with diy painting tips, tricks and a step by step guide.
- new issue of lmnop is out now for free download!
- counting coconuts has a great post on making your little ones a st.paddy's day sensory tub complete with green/gold playdough.
- i want everything from the shop wood and wool stool.

what are you luving this week? do you have a tutorial you would like to see up here next week? send me an email!

p.s. if any of you featured in the roundup would like a "featured on luvinthemommyhood" button for your blog just send a quick email my way to luvinthemommyhood@yahoo.ca and i'll send you one right over - thanks for your support :)

keeping it natural in the mommyhood

2010-03-09T05:00:00.000-08:00

i've been meaning to write a little bit about some products i've been trying out lately in my attempt to keep my beauty products as natural as possible. if any of you know me, you know i love my all natural and organic beauty/body products. i suffer from endometriosis and all those nasty chemicals and yucky stuff in my creams, soaps, shampoo etc are on my hit list. i try to avoid them if i can and make sure my daughter avoids them as well.

i am a huge fan of kiss my face products but felt the need to mix things up a bit lately. i thought i would share what i've been using lately with all of you and get some feedback on what your favorite natural or organic product line is that you use and why it's important to you as a woman and as a parent.

i've been a long time drooler of burt's bees products but have only recently had a chance to try some. i have to say that i am so happy with their products. i have had friends recommend them for years but just never seemed to get my hands on some for myself.

1) naturally ageless line smoothing eye creme
2) replenishing lip balm with pomengranate oil
3) almond milk beeswax hand creme
4) radiance exfoiliating body wash

my fave out of the products above has to be the naturally ageless line smoothing eye cream (which i now need) and the almond milk beeswax hand creme...oh la la, this cream is to die for. it smells delicious and actually helps my poor, dry hands without being greasy. the eye cream is fantastic and to my surprise, i did notice a difference in my skin tone and the bags under my eyes.

i also like that burt's bees labels every product with a "natural bar" score allowing customers to clearly identify the high level of natural ingredients used in that particular product. they use recyclable containers/packing and adhere to a strict set of guidelines that meet "the natural standard". all their products are made using a natural process as well.

to learn more about burt's bees values, processes and ingredients click here.

the other company i am super happy to have found is the green beaver company. this one is canadian! whoop, whoop - go canada! the things i love about this company is that they are:

certified organic, chemical free, pure canadian, have a variety of vegan products, and only use biodegradable ingredients, recyclable containers and packaging. they are striving to continue to introduce products made with canadian ingredients that are organically grown or ecologically wild crafted from coast to coast.

they have a great page on their website outlining all the bad things that are not in their products and what harm those ingredients can cause. click here to read more about the harmful chemicals commonly found in other products that we should strive to avoid and here to learn more about this company.

i've been using their 100% natural green tea facial moisturizer and eye make up remover. i've been very happy with both and plan to continue trying more of their product lines.

what about our kids? bonus is that both of the above companies also carry product lines for our little ones. this is a great thing. it happens to me all the time that i find i company i like but can't find one for mackenzie. i plan to try to get my little hands on these two products soon to try out on mackenzie:

1) green beaver jr. foaming body wash
2) baby bee bubble bath (tear free)

sorry this post may sound like one giant ad (no, i'm not getting paid to talk about these), but this is truly something that i feel is important for us as women, mothers and for the environment. if we all made a small change in the products we use we can make a big change in our health, our children's health and in the life of our precious planet. ok, enough preaching...haha, i'm done now. your turn to talk, i would love to hear your thoughts below.

what is your favorite all natural or organic beauty care line to use? who do you recommend? what line do you use for your children?

etsy monday in the mommyhood academy awards edition - best dressed, tears with sandra bullock and a lap dance with hugh jackman

2010-03-08T05:00:00.000-08:00

"no one wants to do it alone"

~ neil patrick harris (surprise opening of the 2010 oscars)

1) silk rose gown by red doll
2) old hollywood earrings red carpet ready by lkfarnsworth studio
3) double flower love ring by kathi roussel
4) gorgeous origami dress by red doll

i love the oscars. i love to plop down on the couch making what i call my "nest" and plan to not move for a good 3-4 hours (except for food/pee breaks of course) and drool over the clothes, jewelry and the hair. i thought it would be fun, not for the pocketbook, but for the eye to take a peek at etsy for gowns and jewels. i won't lie, it was fun, and there was a puddle of drool on my keyboard over some of the lovely goodies i found on there.

my fave gowns of the night had to be firstly rachel mcadams - swoon, followed by the simplistically stunning maggie gyllenhaal and then, i'm sure there is to be a love/hate war with people over this one, vera farmiga's marchesa gown. i loved it. i love ruffles. i love pretty gowns and could only imagine the time that went into making that gown.

i honor sandra bullock with a pretty runner up but mostly just because i love her and her speech was the best one of the night, yes, i had the kleenex out and the little bean and i had a good belly jiggling cry over the mom/child speech....insert a tear in my eye.

what was your favorite gown of the night? what oscar ensemble did you deem droolworthy and no....george clooney doesn't count..haha...

p.s. did anyone see the barbara walters special? was it just me or did hugh jackman giving her a lap dance really freak you out?

weekend wishes

2010-03-05T05:00:00.000-08:00

to read some dreamy fairy tales with my little girl and try to get out from..............

under this cloud we have been under this week.....................

to remember what it feels like to do this........

bask in all the gorgeous signs of spring in our lovely city of victoria, bc......

eat a lot, and i mean a lot of cantaloupe and fruit salad, my new fave craving now that salt has become my enemy (damn you swollen legs)....

and to enjoy the company of a friend visiting from out of town who has know me since i was 2, enjoy dinner without kids or hubbies, good girl chat with maybe a bit of gossip thrown in and the comfort of hanging out with someone who has known you through good and bad times without you having to explain all the little things that make you - you.

what are you up to this weekend? do you have a friend who has known you your whole life?

image 1, 2, 3, 4 via tumblr, image 5 via flickr.

moments in the mommyhood - beds, bellies and a budding artist

2010-03-04T05:00:00.000-08:00

we've been doing a lot of laying in bed lately. i'll take it when i can get it folks, i am in the third trimester after all.

i love staring into those baby blues but man, oh man, do i wish i had been blessed with her hair.

i've been daydreaming a lot about the new little bean and trying to focus on our birth plan and some of the hitches that have recently been thrown into it. i'm staying positive though... or trying to that is...haha.

i thought i should show you guys what i usually look like with my 31 week belly during the day, yep, the la senza xmas special. almost at the point that i won't be able to wear them anymore but just so darned comfy i'm dreading the day i can't. i figure a good portion of you prolly look the same way and are sitting at your computers donned in similar standby outfits. oh, and yes, the yoga pants are in the mix, but i tend to do a rotation - yoga, jammy, yoga, jammy. i know i'm not alone ladies......

i also couldn't resist showing you this drawing that mackenzie made a few weeks ago that just melts my heart every time i see it. it was one of her first attempts at drawing people. she says it mommy, daddy, her and the baby all holding hands. i think she's got something going seeing as she isn't even 3 yet and now she even puts faces on them! too cute...my little budding artist.

what's going on in your mommyhood today? we've been dealing with another growth spurt, which equals in our house, no sleep, crankiness, yelling, not wanting to wear clothes, painting furniture with yogurt, strawberry stains on the carpet, a lot of snacking on her part, a few tantrums and the oh, so famous, "mom, i want to do it all by myself" and not in a good way tone. do they ever end??? and i wonder why i don't leave the sanctum of my house on those days.

wanna share about your week?

link luv roundup

2010-03-03T05:00:00.000-08:00

1) oh my gosh, this apron with built in potholders in the corners from the mother huddle is so adorable! i think i need to make one of these!
2) i'm adoring the new march anthropologie.
3) this would be such a fun project for the little ones for easter! find out how to grow your own grass eggs over on fly through our window.
4) i've been spotting this wonderful, bright and colorful lampshades all over the blogosphere lately - i heart them! want one of your own? check out the shop "the owls are hunting" and get ready to drool!!!

i can't stop looking at images of spring this week.....i miss the sunshine we had last week. (via sfgirlbybay)

- oh, hello friend is hosting the fab lovely package exchange again this year. head on over here to enter.
- or enter disney's "ruffles your stuff" competition over on her blog! this is sure to be filled with goodies galore! get ready to sew up a storm. i can't wait to see the entries!

- samster mommy has a fun tute up for our little ones to diy some baby toddler yoga pants.
- mmmmm, i love lemons and these lemon tarts are calling my name over on the design sponge.

1) cute pattern for a reversible bib over on prudent baby this week.
2) there's been lots of zipper tutes floating around lately. i love this zipper daisy tutorial over on diary of a craftaholic or check out threadbanger's roundup of zipper projects this week.
3) learn how to turn a potholder into a case for your glasses over at "two shades of pink".
4) vanessa from v and co. has a great tute up on sew mama sew for some fun decorations made from white t-shirts.

1) quilt up your little one a scottie dog with this free pattern.
2) i am a button addict and flipped over this button necklace diy at joy's hope.
3) skip to my lou shows us how to make this cute apron from a tea towel!

- i am a big fan of skinny laminx's fabric line and just had to post about her prints inspired from her collection of vintage mugs and tea pots.

1) get in on the fun on presser foot and make the "maternity or not frock".
2) jill's got a handy little tute up on how to refashion a big tee to a maternity top.
3) then knit up a "love cocoon" with this free patter over on "mrs missy muffet". (via whip up)

the new issue of small magazine is out and it's filled to the brim with lovely, lovely goodies!

1) fellow canadian blogger "from an igloo" has two fun tutes up for your little ones. first up the twirly t-shirt dress and then......
2) the one hour sundress. (via one pretty thing)
3) clean out your wardrobe of old tees by making up this pretty wreath from scoutie girl. (via dollar store crafts)
4) add a tutu to your little girl's onesie with the help of jessica from happy together.

things i'm luving this week:

- that thanks to all of your lovely votes and for being such great and loyal readers we came in 2nd place overall in "the lovelies" awards!! whoop whoop! big hugs to all of you who voted, i really appreciate all your kind words!!
- maggie has a fun tute up for making a glazed fabric button ring and a stretch knit pregnancy band over on her blog "smashed peas and carrots".
- fun sewing tute for a simple smocked skirt from come and see the seitz.
- love this wrangle me tee from "i am momma hear me roar".
- found this site to be lots of fun for all you fellow diy addicts.
-great ideas for an oscar themed party from twig and thistle. click here for part 1 and here for part 2.
- make a two minute no sew felt diaper for all those dolls and stuffies your little one loves to change.
- sew up your own hanger space saver with help from little birdie secrets.
- love the idea of the site www.teachamantofix.com and can't wait to see what he comes up with! the site is for both boys and girls and promises to teach us the basic skills for diy from a handyman's perspective.

what are you luving this week? do you have a tutorial you would like to see up here next week? send me an email!

p.s. if any of you featured in the roundup would like a "featured on luvinthemommyhood" button for your blog just send a quick email my way to luvinthemommyhood@yahoo.ca and i'll send you one right over - thanks for your support :)

makin' it in the mommyhood - babies and a bathroom

2010-03-02T05:00:00.000-08:00

the hubs so sweetly got me lotta jansdotter's fabulous book "simple sewing for baby" for xmas and i finally got a chance to whip up two patterns from the book that i had been dying to make this weekend.

first off i did the soft rattle that looks like a giraffe. this was a fun and easy project that i was able to make with mackenzie, especially after i realized i had cut my fabric wrong and ended up having to make 2 instead of 1. it all worked out in the end though, one for her and one for little bean. that will teach me for not reading the directions right? it's supposed to rattle but i couldn't find a little bell at Michael's when i was there so for now they are silent giraffes. it matches a pillow i made eons ago for the baby's crib and all the colors of the bedding.

next up was the tag blankie. i heart tag blankies. they are so fun and a tad addicting. i can see myself easily whipping up a few more of these before the babe comes along. i used some soft flannel i had left over from the backing of mackenzie's quilt for the blankie. it's not too big, just 12" x 12" finished size. i think i may make a few small ones as well to go with it that i can just throw in the diaper bag for playtime. mackenzie never had one of these when she was little and i always wished i had made her one.

after i managed to get the above projects off my to do list this weekend, i also managed to hem my new ikea drapes from our trip to van in january. yes, i had them hanging all pinned up for over a month, i'm not embarrassed to admit it...that's what happens when you get to the third trimester...haha. but i finally did get to hemming them. poor jer was a bit frightened i must say as i tried to battle the ikea hemming tape. i have decided that i hate that stuff and will never use it again. after about 1/2 hour of us struggling with the drapes i said f*&k it and got out the sewing machine and hemmed the good ol'fashioned way.

after cutting off my excess i realized i had enough material to get one of my long time projects completed. we recently bought a new shower curtain for our master bath and the curtain i had made to hide a weird gap between the cabinet and the wall just didn't match anymore. i had been dreaming of doing a white ruffled one (like the anthropologie ruffled shower curtain i adore) and shazam! that ol'ikea material did the trick. i kept the old panel as my backing and all i had to do was cut the leftover material in half and hem 2 out of the 4 bottoms (2 were already hemmed) and then ruffle the tops and sew them on. easy peasy! i love the look! what do you guys think?

i thought i would give you a little sneak peek into my usually messy and chaotic master bath just for fun. it's hard living in a rental at times when you wish you could do so much more with your space. like that floor in there? bah! and the counter top (it's an ugly grey that shows every speck of dust, like mere minutes after you dust it) - bah! can't stand them, but what do you do? i just try to pretty up the rest of it and count down the years until we own our own home. (ps. the pic on the wall is of our fave place along the oregon coast...i want to live on that beach someday)

what have you been making lately? do you have any projects you have done to hide ugly rental fixtures? i'd love to hear and see them!

etsy monday in the mommyhood

2010-03-01T05:00:00.000-08:00

go, canada go!!!!!!!!!

1) i love vancouver zipper pouch by kukubee
2) olympic alpine beast by woolde beast
3) olympics 14k gold filled necklace by made by sam
4) olympic leather wristbands by leather made nice

go, canada go! you'll have to excuse my olympic cheer today! i've managed to keep it off the site thus far but couldn't resist having a little fun and a whole lotta pride over the fact that canada kicked some butt at the olympics! i'm all hyped up after team canada's mens hockey team scored the winning goal in a nail biter of a game in overtime yesterday! i swear i almost went into early labor over the anxiety! nice to see both the women and the mens hockey teams grab the gold!

i took a little peek to see if some of that canadian olympic pride was popping up over on etsy and you bet it was! i found some cute little gems over there to help you show off your olympic pride! and don't worry, there was more than just canadian goodies, but ya know, being canadian, a girl's got to support her country, eh!

sad to see the olympics are over, but after living in vancouver for so long (i'm in victoria now) i'm sure the city is ready to get back to normal again.

what have you enjoyed about the olympics? pros/cons? your fave sport to watch? mine was the ice dance (figure skating) and the snowboarding - fabulous!!!!

weekend wishes and the ever growing belly

2010-02-26T05:00:00.000-08:00

i'm pooped, tired and ready for a good rest-filled weekend. this week has felt very, very looooong. so due to my 30 week belly weighing me down, running after my almost 3 year old, chores and a low iron level i'm going to keep this post short and sweet and leave you with some belly shots and some giggles from my little one.

and before you ask, yep, that's right, i'm wearing horizontal stripes. the top is a hand me down from my baby sis and i figured hey, why not, it's the only time in my life i would dare, and i mean dare, to wear these damn stripes cause you all know a girl who's got curves don't need no lines showing how wide they are...haha. it was in my "to be refashioned for mack" pile when i thought hey, it's stretchy and not too warm, i'm putting this baby on, and yes, i wore it out in public too - it's just been that kind of week.

30 weeks

giggles on the swing

wishing you all a wonderful weekend with a bit of a break from the kids giving you a chance to put your feet up, do some crafting, reading, napping or whatever else does your heart good kind of weekend.

what are your plans this weekend? you as tired as i feel? let's commiserate...haha.

p.s. ok my loyal readers...there's only 2 days left to vote for lil'ol me...we're so close, yet so far away...i'm up against some stiff competition...so i need your help. please send a little vote my way for "the lovelies". it's fast and easy, just a simple comment or tweet will do, just follow the link below to show your love. i'll be crossing my fingers :) for those who have already voted - love ya!

*all images luvinthemommyhood

moms in the mommyhood - lucy sweetland

2010-02-25T05:00:00.000-08:00

we have a new "moms in the mommyhood"!

let's all say hi to lucy from the etsy shop {a black pepper} and blog of the same name! i've been a long time reader (and drooler) of lucy's blog and her hand knits and was super excited when she agreed to be part of the "moms in the mommyhood". i find lucy's knitting so clean and modern, but also classic at the same time. her photos are stunning and so her is her work.

lucy is a busy stay at home mom to two little ones, a girl and a boy, who knits and runs her etsy shop while parenting and doing all the other things us moms do. it's been fun getting to know lucy and having an excuse to spend a lot of time just ogling her lovely knits and wishing i had the time to make every single one of them. you can read more about lucy on her website, where you can join her on ravelry, flickr, facebook, check out her photo blog and design page as well as on tumblr - this talented lady has got it all.

so let's all welcome this fun loving momma to the mommyhood, feel free to share your thoughts and questions in the comments below. come sit on down and join us for a cup of coffee, put the kids down for a nap, take a breather and let's chat!

if you are new to the mommyhood, our "moms in the mommyhood" features a new mom monthly who currently has their own business (doesn't matter what kind). we try to sit down and have a virtual cup of coffee and ask them all the fun, little questions that we are dying to know. we also try to get a glimpse into their lives and what it's like to have your own business and be the boss of your kids at the same time. we are always on the lookout for new moms to feature. if you know someone or you would like to be featured in this spot, please send us an email at luvinthemommyhood@yahoo.ca. don't be shy - we can't wait to meet you!

now, let's get sipping our coffee, heck grab a yummy treat if you so desire, pull up a chair join in on the fun with me, have a few laughs and get to know lucy:

Ok, you know I’m going to ask you - when did you first start knitting & how did you learn?

I was knitting pretty early since I was a little, around 8 or 9 years and continued to knit through my teens. I just picked it up from friends then, who really taught me the first knit/purl basics (aka garter stitch) and then later, taught me how to knit baby booties, sweaters and shawls etc. Then I took a break for a long time and started again 12 years ago, during a visit to my in laws in the US. My mother in law is a knitter and she started me up again by taking me on a trip to Michael’s to buy some yarn. I haven’t stopped since.

What eventually led you to start designing patterns? What was the first project you designed and sold?

Well, that just came naturally as I continued to knit. I always had this great need to wear something hand knit that fit my taste and style which I could never find in the store. That coupled with my own creative desire to express myself independently though knitwear led me on the designing journey. I never initially planned to design for others, but just for myself. Still, I design for solely for myself in mind (selfish, I know), but that’s just how I work.

The first project I ever designed and knit was a Merino sweater with a lacy pattern which fits me no more, but my daughter will wear it when she grows. I never really sold any of knitted designs from early on although; I have knit a few of them for friends and just charged them for the labour.

Your website {a black pepper} is gorgeous and I love stopping by to sit and drool all over my monitor. When did you develop your site and how long have you been blogging for now?

Thank you! “a black pepper” started in early 2009 when I decided to switch from my first knitting blog which was limited to knitting only. I wanted a newer and fresher place to document a much broader view of my life. Three years prior to that is when I started blogging.

What’s the story behind the name “a black pepper”?

Ironically, there is no hidden meaning to the name at all. I just went around in circles trying to find a name that defined me and what I wanted to do and somehow, “a black pepper” was befitting. Really, it just means one tiny little black pepper which when used to spice up food, can have a dramatic effect on the overall taste of the food.

What is your all time fave thing to knit?

Sweaters are probably my ultimate favourite. I am also a winter accessory fanatic so I fill in the gaps between sweaters with lots of hats.

What yarn do you find yourself using over and over again?

I am only drawn to wool of different kinds, ranging from scratchy virgin wool with a character like Rowan Scottish Tweeds to the softest of alpacas, merinos and recently, some llama.

Your most indulgent knitting notion/supply? If you don’t own it yet, what would it be?

I would have to say my large collection of Addi Turbo circular needles, which I seem to collect in every size with different lengths. In some cases, I have multiples of the same sizes that I use the most. Yarn is a necessity. No matter how much I have, it doesn’t bother me at all because I always have something I can create with whenever needed.

I’m not a big fan of intarsia knitting, it stresses me out, do you have a style of knitting that is your nemesis?

Yes, I am with you on intarsia and fair isle knitting. I love the effect it produces but unfortunately, I have little or no patience for it.

When do you find the time to knit while being married to hubby (Spike) and raising two active kids (Big T. age 9 and Little T. age almost 4)? I’m mostly a night time knitter, what about you?

The majority of my knitting takes place at night over a movie or an audio book. A few days a week when Little T. is at preschool, I absolutely rush home (no house work whatsoever takes place during this time) and use that time to knit or finish a project I am working on.

I know that you are quite the creative lady. You crochet – I love the granny squares, sew quilts with stunning African fabrics, clothes for your family and you, adorable bedding for your little ones and you take the most breathtaking photography. What’s next on your list? Is there anything you have always wanted to learn that you haven’t attempted yet?

Oh, there are quite a few things on the list. This year I plan to make a crochet granny square blanket once I have accumulated enough leftover yarns; finish a vintage quilt that was given to me; work with some silk fabrics I brought back from Thailand and I guess, work on my little collection of hand knitwear for my store.

You sell your patterns on Ravelry as well as in your etsy shop. How have you found both sites for aiding you in sales? Have they been assets?

Yes, both have been great to places to start selling my patterns. I love the Ravelry knitting community and the feedback I've received. I am still learning about Etsy where my patterns have been considerably well received amongst the multitude of sellers there.

Do you have a craft room or are you like me and stash your wool everywhere and anywhere? Where would we most commonly find you knitting?

No, I don't but I seriously dream of my very own craft room neatly arranged and decorated but in reality, I have two shelf corners in our basement – one corner stashed with fabric and sewing stuff and the other, stashed with clear containers each containing one type of yarn (colour), neatly stacked.

I knit in the family room where the side table and the area around it is usually strewn with baskets of yarns and projects etc.

I’ve mentioned that you take wonderful photography. I can tell this is a passion of yours. It caught my eye and I have been a faithful lurker of your site ever since. What kind of camera do you use? Are you self taught or did you take classes?

I have a Nikon D80 with three different lenses. I am a self taught photographer by far and I generally lack ability to read instruction manuals and technical books (mind you, I know how to read, in case you wonder!). I am more of a trial and error kind of individual.

What inspires you? Which designers work do you find yourself drawn to the most?

I love texture, color, detail and all sorts of shapes in a knitted garment that flatters my personality. I love creating something challenging, either in technique or detail. Also strangely if I may say, the yarn itself inspires me to create something – it’s almost like it tells me what it wants to become.

To be honest, there are many designers out there that are very talented and their work is admirable. Long ago, Debbie Bliss and Melissa Leapman were a few whose work I knew and admired. Now, there is a growing number of new independent designers, including Tikru and Villapeikko (both on ravelry) whose work I like.

Most of us have a hard time finding that perfect pattern for our hubbies or little ones that tend to be a bit picky. Have you made any that you recommend? I know I could use some tips!

I probably have made a lot of kids knit wear from Debbie Bliss books and you can’t go wrong with her designs. I think a classic Tomten jacket by Elizabeth Zimmernann can take it’s own individual character depending on the knitter. Right now, I don’t knit much for my kids because they refuse to wear knits, so it’s frustrating not to be able to pick the cutest patterns I see out there.

Do you have any tips/advice to other moms looking to branch out into selling their own knitting and patterns?

*Sigh*! I am such a novice at marketing my own stuff so I'm probably not very versed at giving someone else advice. However, it took me a long time to get started and take the plunge, but once I started, it became a little easier the second time around. So I would only say, don’t be afraid to start your business, whatever it is.

Where do you buy your wool? Are you more of an online shopper or a brick/mortar kind of girl?

Online, unfortunately. It’s easier that way since I know the yarn brands that I like. Lately, I have been trying some hand dyed yarns from independent smaller vendors.

I see that you are a fan of English Classics and I, being a book hound myself, couldn’t resist asking you what your favourite classic is.

It’ll probably sound corny but Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice is one of my favourites among others of her books (which I love too). Additionally, Wives and daughters (Elizabeth Gaskell) and Daniel Deronda (George Eliot); Jane Eyre (Bronte) are my favourites as well.

From reading your blog I know you are an avid tea drinker. What is your all time, love it the most, drink it whenever you can, would buy it in case lots, tea?

Tea to me is like yarn. You gotta drink in different flavours, blends or even colours (black, red, green etc). It’s hard to choose my favourite because I like variety. I drink less of the caffeinated black teas (like earls greys, Ceylon, assam etc) usually in the mornings, fruity teas for the afternoons and/or green teas for the evening. My local Wegman’s has a teashop and try all kinds of teas from Japan, China and India to Egypt, Brazil or South Africa. I’ll have to share some of the recent flavours I like on my blog soon.

What’s the next step for “a black pepper”?

Hmm, you know the people in your life that are non committal, indecisive, or a little less goal oriented....I am one of those. I have at least an idea (or two) of what I want to do but am a bit fuzzy on the rest of the details. As with a lot of things in my life, I tend to just flow with the waves, wherever they take me. That’s how I like it.

thanks so much for being part of the mommyhood lucy, it's been so fun getting to know you! oh, and i'll be right over for a giant, warm cup of tea and a chat about our fave jane austen books! i think you should design a jane austen inspired pattern, now that would be a must knit in my book!

you can find lucy on her blog, etsy shop, ravelry, tumblr page, facebook page, flickr group, design gallery and photo blog.

*all images, unless otherwise stated are © 2009 {a black pepper}, all rights reserved. please do not use any photos from this post without explicit permission from {a black pepper}.*

link luv roundup

2010-02-24T05:00:00.000-08:00

1) i'm drooling over the new additions to "cloud 9 fabrics". i'll take a few yards of each please!
2) creature comforts has some tips and a little diy on making your own photo topped mini-notepads, so pretty.
3) have you been eyeing butterfly chandeliers? learn how to make your own over on the mother huddle.
4) i love the idea of these rubber lace coasters, what a great and inexpensive idea!

being hugely preggo makes me have dreams at night where i feel as light as this dancer looks in this pic.

a few months ago i was on a mad hunt for a tea cozy pattern and didn't really find much that excited me. well today i came across the shop retro mama and wowsa - these are stunning! i just might have to cave in and buy this one! check out her blog too!

the long thread shows you how to make some pretty spring pieced coasters to match up with the tea cozies we're all gonna make :)

1) oh linda, you keep my to make lists so long...here's a wonderful little clutch repurposed out of a suit coat! how fab! you can check out her tute here.....
2) or linda shows you how to add an adorable zipper ruffle to give some attitude to a basic pair of flats.
3) i'm in love with these cloud shaped marshmallows.
4) "i am momma hear me roar" has a perfect tutorial to tie in with all the boy goodies floating around lately. learn how to make this hurley inspired hoodie here.

speaking of boy stuff, thimbly things has a tutorial for a soft baby book that i cannot wait to make for the little bean! i love this!

i heart pot holders. they are so fun and so addicting...almost as addicting as granny squares. i loved the latest ones over on noodleheads. something about the colour and that adorable house block just won me over. go take a peek and while you're there, check out her new craft room...i'm jealous :)

1) wanna make your own fabric wall decals? click here for the how to.
2) these pretty paper mailboxes could easily be in your home! get the tutorial to make your own over on simply modern mom, my daughter would love playing with one of these!
3) while your at it, why not make your wee one a laminated kids wallet to play store with as well?

1) one of the few fab maternity tutorials i have found during my pregnancy is this lovely little wrap top from megan nielsen, and yep, it's a free download! get sewing!
2) oh granny squares, you are killing me...i can't stop finding new ones. i absolutely adore this blanket pattern from nova made. this is next on my granny square list, the hexagons are fab! (via whip up)
3) fun with mama shows us how to add crawling knee pads to our little ones pants.
4) one of my fave blogs to read "a beautiful mess" has a great diy for a quirky bunny doll, i love that big ol sloppy grin on his face!
5) ummmm....bakerella....red velvet cake...need i say more? please wipe the drool off of my face....

1) i love the blog kenziepoo and was super excited to read that she is starting an ezine that will be debuting in the spring entitled "la petite magazine". can't wait!!!! her blog is always filled with fab finds for kids, i can only imagine how addicting the mag will be!
2) spruce up a simple top with some spring time flair! find out how here.
3) get the tutorial to change your place mat into a fresh handbag over on little birdie secrets.
4) need a swaddle blanket for your new baby? prudent baby has a new free tutorial up so you can make one of your very own.
5) make a charm pack reversible purse with moda bake shop.

two of my fave lady quilters in the whole world have great tutes up this week! i only dream of one day being able to quilt as well as these two uber-talented women. i bow down to you two girls....check out vanessa's scrapbuster banner tute here or join in on rachel from ps i quilt's pinwheel sampler quilt along.

things i'm luving this week:

- that this site has started up - "the modern quilt guild".
- oh my poor heart, i just spotted the new orla kiely spring/summer 2010 collection and i'm in love!!!
- this square flower embellished shirt tute over on smashed peas and carrots.
- spiffy up your empty wipes container by turning it into a clutch with this how to over on "shannon makes stuff".
- all the fun tent tutorials over at obsessively stitching for tent week.
- pink picket fence the blog now has a pretty new etsy shop! go take a peek and drool over her goodies! congrats!
- jessica from happy together has a new pattern up in her shop for a cute mod tie shirt pattern.
- the new beta "makers market".

what are you luving this week? do you have a tutorial you would like to see up here next week? send me an email!

p.s. if any of you featured in the roundup would like a "featured on luvinthemommyhood" button for your blog just send a quick email my way to luvinthemommyhood@yahoo.ca and i'll send you one right over - thanks for your support :)

don't forget to vote!!! there's only 4 days left to show your love :)

makin' it in the mommyhood - baby cardigans and granny squares galore

2010-02-23T05:00:00.000-08:00

it's finished! the first project for the new little bean! i knitted up this adorable, little garter stitch cardigan last week. i chose it due to it’s being knit all in one piece and only needing one skein of yarn to whip up. i enjoyed making it and found the pattern easy to follow.

the only spot i had a hard time with was the seaming. i wanted the side seams and underarms to look seamless and just couldn't seem to figure out how to get those dang underarms to work due to the binding off in separate rows a few stitches at a time. that darn ladder look won’t go away no matter what seaming process i use.

the writer of the pattern suggested using the mattress stitch and i will go back and give that a try. not sure if it will help me though, i seem to just be stuck. i’ve tried about 20 times to get it to look right, so cross your fingers number 21 is going to work…haha.

the pattern is called "inca-dincadoo" and you can find it here on ravelry as a free download.

i've also been busy at working on my new granny square addiction. eeek! they sure are quick to just grab you and suck you in. it took me a bit of time on the weekend to get my crochet terminology back up to speed and practice a few different squares until i found the right one, but i'm happy with what i've made so far.

somewhere along the last week or so i came across the pattern called "summer garden granny square" by lucy of attic 24. i love this pattern. it's super easy to follow and you can use a ton of colors. also her tutorial is very well written and has lots and lots of pics so beginners like me can easily see what she is referring to no matter how small a step it is. kudos for her for making such a great pattern! you can find it here on ravelry or on her blog, attic 24.

i’m not too sure at this point if all the squares will have blue for the outer edge, i’m not too practiced at picking colorways right now for the blanket, but i’m trying to go with what i have the most of in my stash at the moment. i may mix it up with pink edges and blue edges. i originally wanted white, but don't have enough wool in my stash to do them all white.

what do you guys think? should i change it up a bit? do i need more color? my daughters room will be shared with the new baby and the colors in there are light blue, pinks and brown. any tips would be awesome! i could use the help :)

etsy monday in the mommyhood

2010-02-22T05:00:00.000-08:00

"Knitting is a boon for those of us who are easily bored. I take my knitting everywhere to take the edge off of moments that would otherwise drive me stark raving mad." ~Stephanie Pearl-McPhee, At Knit's End: Meditations for Women Who Knit Too Much

1) crochet hook organizer by sprout
2) large knitting needle clutch by the bag studio
3) knitting needle case organizer by atelier de soyun
4) tuck and roll crochet hook/knitting needle/dpn organizer by coyote craft

in the quest for doing some early spring cleaning and attempting to get my wool stash and supplies in order i have been on the lookout for some new needle organizers. mine are a disaster!!! a mess, total chaos. i have an old handmade one from someone, not sure who, that is a pain in the ass to use and literally makes more of a mess every time i open it. i would love to have the time/pattern to make my own, but in the meantime with baby #2 on the way soon the above cases would fit the bill perfectly!

what do you use to organize your needles? what about circulars? do you have a tutorial you recommend for making your own organizer? i'd love to hear about it!

ps. we made it to the top 5!! yippee! this is the last week for voting and i need your guys help. please click on the box below and comment/tweet your vote if you love "luvinthemommyhood"! thanks for all your support you guys - you rock!

weekend wishes

2010-02-19T05:00:00.000-08:00

for more shadow belly kisses from my little girl........

for more signs of spring........

and flower fun........

and these gorgeous cherry blossoms that are starting to line our pretty streets....

to stare into these beautiful blue eyes
(hoping the new little bean has them too)....

and to have plenty moments of stillness.

the sun has been shining the last few days and let me tell you it feels wonderful, fresh, warm and so invigorating! i've been feeling bad for all the people enduring those winter storms right now, but we get enough of our fair share here in canada so i'm happy to have the sun for a change.

spring is definitely in the air, the streets are starting to bloom and fill with cherry blossoms, new growth is sprouting everywhere, my belly included, and it is perfect park weather. i didn't get in the "moments in the mommyhood" post this week so i decided to mix it up in the weekend wishes and use my pics instead of my usual sources.

i'm hoping for mackenzie to have plenty moments of stillness, like the one above, so i can get some sewing, crocheting or knitting done while watching the olympics - go canada, go! she doesn't nap anymore so it's a rare occassion for her to pass out in our house...haha. plus i have a new tutorial for everyone that's just begging to be finished.

what are your weekend wishes? are you in sunshine or snow & which do you prefer?

*all images luvinthemommyhood

p.s. just one day left for you guys to vote for luvinthemommyhood for the "lovelies" award for category handmade.

knitting in the mommyhood - baby pattern books

2010-02-18T05:00:00.000-08:00

let the nesting begin! i thought i would share which books i've been busy scanning pages from and borrowing from the library to get some knitting projects on the go for the new little bean. not sure why, but it's been a lot easier to knit lately than sew. a comfort thing i guess, as in that "i'm feeling too huge to sit in front of the sewing machine for long periods of time, need to beach myself on the couch, wool in hand, feet propped, needles moving, project runway on tv kind of comfort mode" (also the amount of wool in my stash that i found in my storage room to burn through could be a factor).

i've got a huge list of books i'm trying to get my hands on, but my local library sucks! i know they have budget cuts but they are sorely lacking in the handmade department for new and current reading. it's horrible! if i tried to buy all the books i was looking for i would be as broke as our public library system, so no go for me. i keep holding out hope they will eventually get a few in and in the meantime i just scour ravelry for my go to projects (i've got one almost done i'll show you all soon).

i know not everyone is a member on ravelry, but if you knit/crochet or are looking to learn please join! it's free and so much fun! you won't regret it. it's dangerous though, i log on there and the next thing i know it's 2 hours later, my fave folder is bursting, my daughter's whining for me and my hubby is begging me to get off the computer...dangerous...dangerous thing that ravelry. so in the meantime here's some good ol' books to hold in your hands, yes, i still love to do that. so get reading and of course, knitting!

1) handmade beginnings by anna maria horner
(not knitting but worth adding here)
2) design it, knit it: babies by debbie bliss

1) essential knits for kids by debbie bliss
2) the expectant knitter by marie connolly
3) essential baby by debbie bliss
4) wacky baby knits by alison jenkins

1) booties, blankets & bears by debbie bliss
2) natural nursery knits by erika knight
3) vintage knits for modern babies by hadley fierlinger
4) easy baby knits by claire montgomerie
5) knits for the modern baby by lena volchok
6) vintage baby knits by kristen rengren and thayer allyson gowdy

what's your favorite knitting book for babies? add your pick to the comments below, i'd love to hear your fave!

p.s. don't forget to vote :) voting is open till the 20th of feb and then we move on to the top 5!

link luv roundup

2010-02-17T05:00:00.000-08:00

vanessa from v and co., one of my fave bloggers and blogs (and one of our former moms in the mommyhood), has an adorable quilt tutorial up at moda bake shop this week!

ohhhh, i want this pillow! they are from a shop called plytextiles and are made from 100% recycled sweaters that are then felted and turned into these charming treasures - how lovely! (via decor 8)

learn how to make some cute belts for the little boys (or girls) in your life with this tute from meg from "elsie marley" over on "made by rae" for celebrate the boy month.

if you've been wondering where marichelle of "heart handmade" has gone, well she's now over at the fabulously lovely "nice package", a new collaboration consisting of her and ez from "creature comforts". those two together as a team....i seriously don't know how you could go wrong :)

i am swooning over their new shop/blog/site. it's filled with pretty diy's, tutes and wonderful packaging ideas with lots of goodies for sale!!! go on over and drool with me! you can find the above pic's how to there and make some of your very own romantic matchbooks.

i'm drooling over the new "built by wendy" collection. i think i seriously want each piece! (via unruly things)

oh gosh, just look at this little guy! so cute! i just wanna kiss those cheeks! ok, ok, enough about the baby, take a look at that hat!!! sew liberated has a free tutorial up for "celebrate the boy" month so head on over and get sewing - i love this!

sew much ado has a great and quick little tute to make leg warmers to go with her skirt refashion from last week's link luv roundup. these seem to be all the rage lately, i better get cracking and make mackenzie a pair before it's summer!

this hat and scarf are made from a man's shirt - yep, can you believe it! great job! you can find the instructions to make your own over at instructables.

melissa from isly has a great little post showing how you can sport some spring time fresh pom poms in your hair! perfect for you and your little girl!

i've been on the lookout for great baby room tutorials and this one from "prudent baby" shows you how to make a custom diaper pad cover.

lil'blue boo has the sweetest lil'tute up today....oh how i want a pair of those piggies for my socks! learn how to make animal sock pompoms for your little ones tootsies!

isn't this guy cute? don't you wanna make one? if you do, head on over to chez beeper bebe for the pattern and tute. (via whip up)

1) dana from made has a tutorial up that i definitely need! i have been a bit chicken to try dying any clothes of mackenzie's but now after her reading how to, i'm sold! go check it out!
2) dwell has new bedding coming out in april - so i hear....i'm lusting after this set. ohhhhh, if only i could afford to buy this set, or at least get target to finally ship to canada so i can buy their other line there. damn you target!!
3) make a nifty wallet out of the cuff from a men's dress shirt over on replayground. (via craftzine)
4) samster's mommy has a handy how to up for turning a sweater into a tunic for your little girl.

ruffles and stuff is keeping my link luv's busy the last couple of weeks - wowsa! she definitely has no shortage of projects lately! this week she has a fantastic and super handy roundup on how to make your wee one's clothes last longer once they are stained, too small..etc.

things i'm luving this week:

- i heard and saw possibly one of the most romantic things of all time. i'm not going to even attempt to explain this...but please, just go over to "jen loves kev" (one of my fave fashion reads) and check out this post...it will make your heart melt and maybe bring a tear to your eye. the best part is that you can join in and spread the love! (hint - it's in the video that starts off with their wedding)

- a sweet and easy pillow sham tutorial over on fussy monkey biz.

- the new sade album and lady antebellum, can't stop playing these two this week.

- issue 6 of parasol mag is out for downloading

- simply stated from real simple has a post with their top 10 design hubs for parents.

- that there is a "so you think you can decorate" starting now too! check it out!

- the new issue of modern handmade child.

- the sewing dork has a little knit pants refashion.

- great listing from mique of thirty handmade days for links for beginner sewers with how to's and projects.

- all of your super sweet votes for me in "the lovelies"! i appreciate every single one of them - you guys rock! thanks for all the super sweet words, i treasure them and it feels great to know others are enjoying what i love to do.

what are you luving this week? do you have a tutorial you would like to see up here next week? send me an email!

p.s. if any of you featured in the roundup would like a "featured on luvinthemommyhood" button for your blog just send a quick email my way to luvinthemommyhood@yahoo.ca and i'll send you one right over - thanks for your support :)

loved by heidi klum - do you luv it?

2010-02-16T05:00:00.000-08:00

motherhood maternity recently launched heidi klum's new maternity line "loved". i'm a bit sad that i am already in the third trimester and really trying to not buy any more maternity clothes because some of the items are super cute. i do have to admit though, that i was a bit disappointed by the line and was expecting a bit more flair and sass. i guess i wanted a bit more of "heidi", or the "heidi" that is on project runway in those fab one piece jumpsuits and strapless dresses to give us a line of clothes so that we can all look as hip and stylish as she does.

i think i'm bored of the big tunics and tight pants and was surprised that this is pretty much the whole line. i do have to admit that i LOVE those skinny jeans, they are fab. i wish i could have snagged a pair of those up a few months ago. i have a pair of motherhood maternity's new jeans with the flesh tone ultra thin nylon belly part and let me tell you, they are super, super comfy! much better than a huge hunk of lycra that shows through all your fave tops.

so, c'mon heidi, don't hog all those lovely, lovely outfits to yourself.....we all dream that we can even look as remotely stunning as you do preggers. i'm interested to see what she will add to the line next. i mean really, i can't even dare to dream that i could look that fab after so many kids, she is one lucky lady!

what do you guys think of the line? what's your fave piece?

p.s. our little family went swimming on the weekend are are all under the weather, darn public pools....so bear with me if there is no "link luv roundup" tomorrow.

p.s.s. don't forget to vote :)

etsy monday in the mommyhood

2010-02-15T05:00:00.000-08:00

"The only place where housework comes before needlework is in the dictionary." ~Mary Kurtz

1) my grandmother's blanket by turtle murtle
2) colorful afghan pillow by atelier afra
3) florida everglades by popsicle stick
4) crocheted dot bag green & turqoise by artistik1979

i've been hooked by the granny square. she came and caught me this week. i've been going through my huge wool stash and trying to get some projects on the go for the baby when swoosh, i was sucked in by the granny square. how? by watching tv at 4:00am that's how. damn those late night/early morning craft shows. have any of you seen these? they lure me in every darn time.

heading into the third trimester has me up quite a bit at night, which usually ends with me being sucked into a knitting or quilting show on some learning channel. it's not a good thing. it usually takes me eons to go back to sleep because my mind starts spinning and filling with possible projects and i start to feel that familiar tingle in my fingers to work with my hands.

the other night i was up watching tv in bed and remembered this gorgeous pattern i had seen on sarah london's site. i sat straight up and said "i have to make this". it's now near the top of my list and will hopefully be a great big stash buster. in the meantime though, i thought it would be fun to help aide my new longing to make granny squares by seeing what all the ladies have been up to on etsy. i love all the above items! aren't they cheerful and perfect for spring?

if you're looking to learn how to do some serious granny square making, check out "meet me at mike's", scroll down the page and check out the left side bar for the links to her crochet school with the latest series of how-to's on granny squares.

what's your favorite crochet project? are you hooked on granny squares?

weekend wishes

2010-02-12T05:00:00.000-08:00

that i won't cave into my cravings to eat about 10 of these lovely, lovely cupcakes.....

that my hubby would stop hating, and i mean hating, valentine's day..........

that i could find a photographer in my city to do a photo shoot for me to record my last pregnancy with little bean...........

and that they would do it for free or very little in exchange for some advertising and praise on my site...............

that a magical web designer will sweep in and save me from my blog housekeeping and help me to reach my goals for the site before the new baby arrives (insert last half of previous wish)..

and that this will be the weekend that i find my dream bedding so that i can finally love my bed again.

ok, ok, i know that's a lot of tricky wishes, but hey, a girl can dream right? i'm being quite honest though. i am on a hunt for the nicest and most talented photographer willing to help make one of my wishes come true. i never got a chance to have professional shots done in my 1st pregnancy and since this is my last baby i would really love to have some done. i'm all for bartering/trading services to cover the cost. do you know anyone? are you the person i'm looking for? email me :)

also, i've seen others do this before, i've got some big time goals for the functionality of this little ol site of mine, and have been painstakingly learning html and web design on my own during what little spare time i have and it's just not cutting it. in order to make things get to the point that i envision them i need some help. any designers out there willing to work with me in exchange for free advertising and tons of praise/recommendations on the site to help build your portfolio? email me :)

now, onto much more fun things....what are your weekend plans? are you a fan of valentine's day like i am stuck with a hubby who hates it? what are your weekend wishes?

p.s. don't forget to vote :)

images 1, 2, 4 & 6 via my tumblr page, image 3 - foshydog and 6 - derek gavey

we've been nominated for the lovelies!!!

2010-02-11T05:00:00.000-08:00

yippee!! checked my email today and found out luvinthemommyhood has been nominated for a "lovelies" award in the blog:handmade section!!!!! can i say excited! super excited! i heart the lovely clusters site and their blog. gorgeous eye candy and a very fun way to shop! if you haven't been there, here's what they are all about:

"a place to browse beautiful handmade and vintage items from very creative artists and designers from around the world. Each item links to the sellers shop site where you can purchase and find more information."

go check it out, you won't regret it! rachel does a fabulous job creating beautiful and inspirational posts, i go over there just to drool and stare and all the loveliness of it all.

what about the lovelies award? well what can i say other than to shamelessly beg you to please, please, pretty please, go and make my preggo belly swell with pride and joy and vote for little ol' me at the lovelies! all you have to do is click the box below and leave a comment or tweet at the bottom of their post. the directions are listed there as well. voting is open until february the 28th!

thanks for your support and for your votes! i truly appreciate all of them!

link luv roundup

2010-02-10T05:00:00.000-08:00

i figured a nice, bright jolt of color would help to shake up our wednesday and this pic definitely caught my eye - you all know my obsession with buttons!

1) i love the simplicity of this tutorial for a travel changing pad - so easy! this is a must make for any busy mom on the go. (via one pretty thing)
2) head on over to calico to find out how to revamp some of your headbands this season! a fun tute!
3) i thought the idea to use old valentine cards to make a sweet bunting was clever and resourceful! click here to find out how to make your own. (via whip up)

grace over on whimsy loft shows you how to make this adorable sock owl for the little ones in your life. (via whip up)

why not make a valentine's robot this holiday? sew green shows you how.

another fab tutorial in the "celebrate the boy" series this month. check out the tute for this trinket keepers tutorial (great for girls too) over on amazing mae!

0hhhh, i'm loving it! another anthrocopy from over on made by lex (previously my mama made it). i adore this top! great job alexis!

1) i can't get enough of these hooded scarfs from pretty ditty. this is my fave!
2) whip up some patchwork pillow covers with this tute from things we make.
3) the ever so talented ashley from lil blue boo shows us how to recover and revamp a nursery rocker to add some spice to your room!
4) isn't this just so lovely? i love how fresh and simple this is for valentine's day. (via craftzine)

i need to get my hands on a pair of these! love them! the etsy shop "wooly baby" makes all their wool slippers from recycled sweaters for sizes newborn to 4 years old!!!! so precious!! i want a pair for myself!

1) freshly picked has a tutorial for an easy elastic waist skirt for all us mom's and non-mom's out there!
2) here's a fun refashion from "sew much ado" for a toddler ruffle skirt.
3) ruffles and stuff shows how to make this gorgeous scrunch belt.
4) the lovely ladies over at kojo designs have a tutorial up for this cute plaid and lace schoolgirl skirt for your little one!

1) a former "moms in the mommyhood" shaelynn benner shows us how to make ruffle neck scarf!
2) there's a lovely little diy for these pretty fabric flowers over on 100 layer cake. (via creature comforts)
3) got a cardigan kicking around that needs some vamping up? check out this tute for making that cardi look like something that wasn't your grandmother's.

i wish i had enough quilting skills built up that i could tackle this blocks and stripes quilt from "film in the fridge", it's gorgeous!

alicia paulson from posie gets cozy (also the author of one of my fave sewing books) has a beautiful, pattern up for sale in her shop for this sunshine day baby afgahn - i just might have to make this, it keeps calling to me. darn you alicia!

things i'm luving this week:

- the precious birth stories and memories being shared over on design mom.

- mags from one of my fave blogs "smashed peas and carrots" shares two great tutorials for a repurposed girls shirt to toddler dress and little girls shirt sleeves to leg warmers. so adorable! these are on my "must sew" list!

- free mini kit from melissa of "isly" over on design house digital just in time for valentine's day or some free twitter page backgrounds from "ollibird".

- the new to me blog "mrs lilien styling house" - love the the little tales and characters she whips up to go with her posts each day, so fun!

- new etsy shop from the blog "whatever".

- make sure you head over to the rik rak studio to vote for the 2010 handmade olympics!!!

- the new album making me swoon from the oh, so talented corinne bailey rae.

- the creative maven has a fun little craft to make a valentine for the tea lover after your heart with a play on the word sweetie (sweetea) in the shape of a tea bag. go check it out!

what are you luving this week? do you have a tutorial you would like to see up here next week? send me an email!

p.s. if any of you featured in the roundup would like a "featured on luvinthemommyhood" button for your blog just send a quick email my way to luvinthemommyhood@yahoo.ca and i'll send you one right over - thanks for your support :)

moments in the mommyhood - so that's what they get up to when i'm not around

2010-02-09T05:00:00.000-08:00

found these pics on the camera the other day and it was another of those "so that's what they do when i'm not around moments" when i wonder how the heck my little girl got so darn dirty......

it's cute when you find the pictures but not so cute when they get home and you are the one who has to clean her once white, clean shoes and both of their sets of muddy clothes....is it just me or am i not alone in my thinking? at least the park picked flowers my hubby gets her to bring home for me take away some of the shock, hey wait, maybe that's part of their plan???

well before i finish up, here's a quick update on the little bean, this pic is me at 27 weeks - almost the 3rd trimester...eeek!!!! this baby is sooo active, always a kicking and a moving. i had to go for that horrible glucose screening test today and my 2nd lovely rh negative shot - so fun! yeah right. yuck! at least they improved the taste from when i had to take it when i was preggers with mackenzie, it tasted like chalk then and i almost hurled it at the nurse. this time i kept it down, but it was still nasty.

i don't drink pop, so this stuff was killer for me to chug in under 10 minutes. well at least i wasn't alone, there were 2 other preggos in the wait room and we might as well have cheered each other and pretended they were tequila shots and downed the nasty, sugar filled liquid. it's always fun to have someone to commiserate with, even if the after effect isn't a nice alcohol buzz but a tiring sugar high. maybe the baby had fun? i know i sure didn't, oh the joys of pregnancy.

all images luvinthemomyhood

little boy roundup

2010-02-05T09:00:00.000-08:00

wowwweee! hi everyone! if you're clicking over from "made by rae" for "celebrate the boy" thanks for stopping by! i guest blogged over there today and this was the post:

image via

hi there, i'm shannon from the blog luvinthemommyhood, where i dish on my attempts to sew, knit, craft, cook, parent and just plain survive (and love) life in the mommyhood. luvinthemommyhood is your source for a wealth of information ranging from handmade & repurposing projects, diy, mommyhood survival tips, to design, photography, music & books - i try to serve it up with humour and a dose of daily life in the mommyhood with my hubby, a soon to be 3 year old, and a little bean on the way.

when the sweet and lovely rae mentioned to me about her plans for "celebrate the boy" and that she wanted me to do a roundup i was ecstatic, and of course, i said yes! i love nothing more than a giant, inspirational roundup - they are my faves! i have a little girl and i'm currently pregnant with my second child, so the idea of doing a boy's roundup after already doing a baby girl one on my site was too good to pass up. plus i am a huge, huge, fan of rae's so just the idea of guest blogging on her site was enough to have me jumping around enough that i could have induced labour.

i scrounged, searched and spent many a night joined at the hip with my computer scouring the internet for the best projects for this roundup. there's sewing, repurposing, knitting and crafts - a little something for everyone! i hope you discover lots of goodies for those special boys in your life and find yourself happy to be ditching the lace and ruffles for capes, knee patches and racetrack toys galore! so come join me and let's help "celebrate the boy"!!!!

Row 1
1. man's polo into boy's polo 2. infant one piece into shirt 3. tshirt to romper
Row 2
4. tshirt to newborn gown 5. men's dress shirt to boy's 6. 90 minute shirt

Row 1
1. rookie mom's easy pants 2. boxer briefs 3. dish towel shorts 4. knee pad pants
Row 2
5. denim shorts 6. pajama pants 7. cuffed play trousers 8. easy peasy underneathy

Row 1
1. the eddie cap 2. boy's tie from man's 3. diaper change cone 4. preemie baby hat
Row 2
5. stay on baby slippers 6. bib from old jeans 7. baby booties 8. baby tie tutorial
Row 3
9. long eared toque from shirt 10. bush hat 11. tie bib 12. travel high chair

Row 1
1. super hero cape 2. superhero cape 3. toolbelt tutorial 4. easy stuffies
Row 2
5. child's tent 6. fabric baby grab bal l 7. owl ribbon tag toy 8. rocket man
Row 3
9. cozy car caddy 10. art apron from dishtowel 11. car mat 12. cozy cones

Row 1
1. monster booties or on ravelry 2. brrr baby beanie 3. on the go overalls
Row 2
4. kiddie cadet or on ravelry 5. snug 6. shawl collar baby vest or on ravelry

Row 1
1. the purl bee's quilt for a baby boy 2. minky blanket from i craft
Row 2
3. baby boy double hourglass quilt 4. cluck cluck sew's baby boy bug quilt

a big thank you to rae for having me over and for allowing me to be part of all the fun!!!! "celebrate the boy" is going on for the whole month of february so be sure to join in!

what's your favorite boy tutorial you luv to make for the little guys in your life?

p.s. if any of you featured in the roundup would like a "featured on luvinthemommyhood" button for your blog just send a quick email my way to luvinthemommyhood@yahoo.ca and i'll send you one right over - thanks for your support :)

weekend wishes

2010-02-05T05:00:00.000-08:00

wishing i had a tent like this of my own to play in, it makes me think of the movie "the holiday"......

hoping to eat some of this yumminess.....

planning on doing lots of puzzles with my hubby and little girl.........

and if i'm lucky, between games night, bday parties and swimming i'll get in a good nap....

along with some knitting now that i have sorted all my wool - now that was a huge job i don't want to do again for a loooong time. i thought i was going to get lost in the abyss of wooliness that was my storage bins.

what are your weekend wishes? knitting anything fun this week?

all images via my tumblr page