SPOOOOOOOKY Designs.........

Just in time for holiday shopping we are finding MANY items on Ebay and Etsy by our members!!

FEATURED ETSY STORE!!!

Thanks for stopping by our Etsy spot! My name is Jenny, designer/seamstress behind Colby Lane Designs. In business since 2004, our bibs are messy-baby-tested and mom-approved. Bring on the drool! ;)

Contest! Prize Package worth OVER $2000.00!

WOW what a package!!!

Moms United in Business has a GREAT contest going on right now!!! So many mom these days are trying to help their families from home by making money WHILE trying to be the best STAY AT HOME WORKING moms out there!!! SO go find out abotu this contest, and make sure you snag the info your BLOG!

WE hope to win this for the 700 plus MOMS that represent DBCB!

http://moms-united.blogspot.com/2008/07/contest-prize-package-worth-over-200000.html

BACK TO SCHOOL

Can you BELIEVE it is almost here!!??? Send them back to school in style with a few fun items I found created by DBCB members.......

Super cute set!!!

10 minute cleaning challenge!

Last week i got NO cleaning done....and neither did anyone else in my house. Since I was out cold on the couch for a week with kidney stones, the house NEEDED to be SCRUBBED!!!!!!!!!
So this morning EARLY I started cleaning........ and I am STILL working on it! LOL

I found this GREAT page on cleaning, with tips, and lots of great info and wanted to share with others...

Don't forget to do you 10 minute challenge.........For those of you who haven't read about our 10 minute challenges here is a little cap...

1. Decide what you wnat to work on BUT DON'T DO IT ALONE get your kids to help to!!
2. Start some FUN music...
3. Set a timer for 10 minutes
4. Race the clock to see what you can get done in 10 minutes...

YOU might be surprised just how much you can get done in that short amount of time!!

We will be working on one in about 15 minutes!
I plan to get the kids going on helping with the laundry...matching socks, and putting away thier own clothing.

Let us know what you did for your 10 minute challenge!!

http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/pac_ctnt_988_leader/text/0,,DIY_26336_68432,00.html

THAT mouse!!!!

.

.

.

Featured ETSY store

SUPER cute items, SO easy to work with!! I LOVE this seller.

Portrait Set

A CLASSIC BEAUTIFUL PORTRAIT SET. THE NECKLACE AND BRACELET ARE MADE COMPLETELY OUT OF SWAROVSKI PEARLS AND CRYSTALS, WITH SILVER FINDINGS. THIS SET WOULD BE GREAT FOR ANY SPECIAL OCCASION, SUCH AS COMMUNION, OR FOR A FLOWERGIRL OR SIMPLY AS A NICE PORTRAIT NECKLACE.

Wristlet purse ........SOOO cute!!

Brand new to my accessory collectionStunning Country Apple WrisletPerfect addition to your accessiory collection all year long!Easy For on the go by either
holding in hand or anchored to your wrist
with the strap for a swing look,This little bag will hold all t
he essentials you need to sail through the day.Including its matching Wallet.With its Zipperes closure, and Roomy inside!Great for Tucking in the amazing
designers Purses that can be found
searching Boutique flourish!Would also make a wonderful gift!Wristlets are becomming more
and more popular perfect for all season long!Think chirstmas gifts makes a wonderful gift.Each unique Wristlet ,
Wallet and accessiory is handcrafted by me,Most will not be recreated in the same way.Bringing you your own unique OOAK(one of a kind) Item.

BLOG GIVEAWAY WINNER!!!

OUR WINNER IS..........

Debbie said...
I love the girls wrap dress with the adorable hair bow. I have never seen one like that before.Debbie KW
10:53 AM

Please contact me at

frogsandflowersboutique@live.com

Election 2008

Election 2008: (i received this in am email and wanted to share it)

Cindy Hensley McCain has been disparaged as a trophy wife, a Barbie, an heiress with fancy purses, even the Paris Hilton of politics. But there's more to the picture than meets the eye.

Yes, Mrs. McCain is the perfectly coifed blonde standing dutifully behind the senator during his speeches. And yes, she wears stylish clothing and carries a Prada purse. And it's true she doesn't say much. But feminist critics who write her off as a 'stand-by-your-man' shrinking violet are selling her short.

While Obama's wife has been hating America, complaining about the war and undermining our troops serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, McCain's wife has been worrying about her sons who actually are fighting or planning to fight in the war on terror. One, in fact, was until a few months ago deployed in Iraq during some of the worst violence.

You don't hear the McCains talk about it, but their 19-year-old Marine, Jimmy, is preparing for his second tour of duty. Their 21-year-old son, Jack, is poised to graduate from Annapolis and also could join the Marines as a second lieutenant. The couple made the decision not to draw attention to their sons out of respect for other families with sons and daughters in harm's way.Cindy also says she doesn't want to risk falling apart on the campaign trail talking about Jimmy who was so young when he enlisted she had to sign consent forms for his medical tests before he could report for duty and potentially upsetting parents of soldiers who are serving or have been killed.

The McCains want to make sure their boys get no special treatment. Same goes for their five other children, including a daughter they adopted from Bangladesh. During a visit to Mother Teresa's orphanage there, Cindy noticed a dying baby. The orphanage could not provide the medical care needed to save her life. So she brought the child home to America for the surgery she desperately needed. The baby is now their healthy, 16-year-old daughter, Bridget.

Though all seven McCain children including two Sen. McCain adopted from his first marriage are supportive of their father, they prefer their privacy to the glare of the campaign trail. Another daughter, Meghan, 23, helps him behind the scenes.

Cindy McCain not only cherishes her children, but also her country, which in an election year filled with America-bashing, is a refreshing novelty. She seethed when she heard Michelle Obama's unpatriotic remarks that she only recently grew proud of America. 'I am very proud of my country,' Mrs. McCain asserted.

She also may be tougher than the other women in the race. While Hillary thinks she's come under sniper fire on mission trips abroad, Cindy has actually seen violence. She witnessed a boy get blown up by a mine in Kuwait during a trip with an international group that removes land mines from war-torn countries.

Mrs. McCain also is a hands-on philanthropist. She sits on the board of Operation Smile, which arranges for plastic surgeons to fix cleft palates and other birth defects. She also has helped organize relief missions to Micronesia.

During a scuba-diving vacation to the islands, Mrs. McCain took a friend to a local hospital to have a cut treated. She was shocked, and saddened, by what she saw.'They opened the door to the OR, where the supplies were, and there were two cats and a whole bunch of rats climbing out of the sterile supplies,' she recalled. 'They had no X-ray machine, no beds. To me, it was devastating because it was a U.S. trust territory.'

As soon as she returned home, she arranged for medical equipment and teams of doctors to be sent to treat the island children.

Michelle Obama may contribute to CARE, which fights global poverty and works to empower poor women. Cindy sits on its board.

While the Democrat women talk about helping the poor and needy, Cindy McCain actually rolls up her sleeves and does it. Who's the out-of-touch elitist?

BLOG GIVEAWAY!!!

Our second Giveaway and WOW what a prize!!!

Andrea or Hair Flairs will be giving away a lovely hari flower to ONE lucky winner!!

Click on the picture, check out her Etsy store, and leave a comment here letting us know what your FAVORITE thing is that she has listed!!! On July 5th we will choose one winner at random to recive this prize!!!

ARGHHHHHHHHH Matey!!

This three piece set is SURE to turn heads no matter WHERE it is worn.

So many fun fabrics and details have been added to this set, and no two sets will look exactly the same.
Denim jacket has been "destroyed" and shows frey marks on the sleeves, neck line and bottom. TONS of fun patches have been added to both the jeans and the jacket, and your little one is going to LOVE the attention his set brings his way!
Follow the map painted on this fun shirt to the
X
That marks the spot....be careful when crossing the Haunted hills, and make sure you take only 100 paces.

Roses in Summer

1. O.N. or TPC Jeans with adjustable waist embellished with fabric Shabby Roses front and back

2. Big Green Dots Halter Top with another rose

3. Two coordinating Hair Clippies

4 piece Set - Custom Made for you after order

HOT Searches on EBAY .... custom boutique

Toddler searches


1.
boutique
2.
resell
3.
custom
4.
overalls
5.
pageant
6.
custom boutique
7.
minnie
8.
birthday
9.
princess
10.
hair bows


GIRL Searches

1.
pageant
2.
boutique
3.
hair bows
4.
resell
5.
disney
6.
custom
7.
minnie
8.
princess
9.
6
10.
dress

For the .........PIRATE in her!!!

Click on the banner to check out these ADORABLE little shoes perfect for any little girl!!!

search WELOVEMUD on ebay!!!!

Click the logo to find all the listings!!!

FEATURED ETSY STORE!!!!

Click on the banner to check out all her TWIRLY summer sets persfect for any little girl!!!

Fresh as a Daisy..........

Click on the banner to check out these ADORABLE listing! I don't think i could find ONE thing I didn't like about it!!! For your kindest consideration is this super fun dress and capri set and the adorable cloche hat!This was made with fresh as a daisy fabrics and will be recreated in your custom size 12 months to 7.The buckles and hat feature lovely crochet accents!

Pretty Princess skirt set!

WOW is all I could say when I saw this stuinning set, and my next thought was I AM SO GLAD I don't have a girl!!!

Group Launch????????

Don't forget to let us know so we can blog about it!!!

We like to know all about who is doing what, and the members like to be able to check out new launches! Pop us an email so we can get your information up on the blog!

Are you checking us out from an ETSY post???

hello to all our NEW friends here from ETSY!!! We hope you will join out FUN group. If you design or BUY items created by others....YOU are would make a PERFECT member for our group....

1. Find Support, and friends
2. Learn about pther places to sell.
3. Have MANY other people who enjoy what you do to ask questions, and bounce ideas off!!
4. promote your items
5. Have a fun place to HANG OUT!

We hope to see YOU soon on the boards!!

99 cent NO RESERVE auctions!!!

Mystery accessory lot! Retail over $150!! Cherry Dress!

Summer Camp set!

OUR GIVEAWAY WINNER!!!!

Willow Tree

Brooke

Please contact me

www.frogsandflowersboutique@live.com

You have won a $20 "gift card" shopping spree to the etsys store

frogsandflowers

OUR FIRST GIVEAWAY!!!!

I wanted to do something fun on the blog for our readers!!!So we are going to have our FIRST (many more to come) GIVEAWAY!!Who doesn't like something FREE??? So what to give, what to give????? HMMMMMMMMHow about a $20 "Gift Card" to the Etsy store above. Click on the picture take a look around.........tell us what your favorite item, or items are in the above Etsy store (just leave it in the comment box below) and on April 26th (my 5 year aniversery) I will choose ONE winner. The winner will be posted here on the blog and will be emailed a gift certificate that can be used on any purchase!!Make sure you comment in the box below as that is how you will be selected!!

Boutique for MOM!!!

Introducing the second in my collection of comfort-meets-chic resort/lounge wear for women! Hot off the sewing machine is a pair of super comfy clam diggers/capri pants created with a beautiful asian print fabric by Alexander Henry. They have a covered eaistband, and are very light and very stylish with their wide legs and hemmed legs.

Last day for our giveaway!

I will be drawing the winner for our giveaway TOMORROW!!!

ONLY 15 people have entered so far so make sure you check it out to get your entry in!!!

Happy Birthday

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DBCB!!!!!

I can't believe it has been 2 years!!!

Safari Zoo Launch with The POSH Monkey!

Capped Pink Lucite on Copper Kidney Wire Earrings by Micheles Jewelry Designs

Big Pink Lucite Barrells.Antiqued Daisy Caps.On Copper Ballpins with tiny shiny seed beads, too.Long Copper Kidney Wires.Approx. 2 1/4 inches (54mm) long. One of my very favorites.

MINNIE has been SPOTTED!!!!

Adorable Miss Mouse Twirl Includes:*Petal /Ruffle Layer Twirl Jumper*Made 2 Match Theater Ruffle Pants
*Matching Pair of Yo YoHair ClipsCustom Sizes available for your little one are 2t, 3t, 4t, 5t, or 6x.

Did you KNOW????

We have a lit so DID YOU KNOW in the group, and here are some of my favorites!

1. To really make scrambled eggs or omelets rich add a couple of spoonfuls of sour cream, cream cheese, or heavy cream in and then beat them up.

2. Reheat Pizza
Heat up leftover pizza in a nonstick skillet on top of the stove, set heat to med-low and heat till warm. This keeps the crust crispy. No soggy micro pizza. I saw this on the cooking channel and it really works.

3. I AM SO GOING TO TRY THIS!!!
No More MosquitoesPlace a dryer sheet in your pocket. It will keep the mosquitoes away.

4. Reducing Static ClingPin a small safety pin to the seam of your slip and you will not have a clingy skirt or dress. Same thing works with slacks that cling when wearing panty hose. Place pin in seam of slacks and -- ta da! -- static is gone.

DBCB IS TURNING TWO!!!

I can't believe that this the month DBCB was started 2 years ago!!!

WE will be having a "party" DBCB style in the group, LOTS of prizes, chatting,and FUN!!! Make sure youa re a part of the group to be included in the fun!

100% of proceeds to St. JUDES!!!!!

We are having a sample sale of this red dress. This is a size 6 dress and ready to ship. We use runway quality fabric for this dress. The fabric is Crinkled Cotton Gauze by Michael Kors, fully lined with cotton blend and elastic back for that perfect fit. The knots on the back can be moved from side to side to suit the desired fit and look.The best thing about the color and style of this dress is that it can be worn for all seasons, and perfect for both formal and informal events.This dress is listed for $139.99 in our website, just click myME page for a link to our website. 100% of the proceed of this dress sample sale auction will be donated to ST. Jude Children's Research Hospital. >

Are you getting ready for the 4th???

100% cotton halter top custom crocheted in your desired size from 24 months to 6. You can choose the color combination shown, or any mix of red, white, and blue.
The halter features a slightly off-shoulder strap and also a tie strap. I love the unique wave design throughout. It's long length and split sides are the perfect finishing touch. >

DESIGNER INTERVIEW!!!!

DBCB Featured Designer Interview Week of 03/31/08 Vicki of VeryDramaticPrincess How long have you been designing? Thanks so much for featuring me on DBCB!!! I have been designing and sewing since I was about 10 years old. And that's a long time!! I won't tell you exactly how long, but it has been more that 30 years! My grandmother helped me with a 4-H project and I just took off from there! What is your favorite thing to design? I mostly enjoy working on girls clothing. I also design woven headbands, hair bows and clips. I am getting ready to start working on some new designs for boys! Stay tuned for that!! Are you part of a design group? Yes I am. I am proud member of the best design group in the whole world! The Posh Monkeys. Being a part of this group of very talented ladies has challenged me to do bigger and better things! Where do you sell? I sell on ebay and also have an etsy shop. What is your inspiration? My inspiration has ALWAYS been my six children. I have sewn for each and every one of them throughout the years starting with my oldest (28 yrs) down to my youngest (15 mo). Vicki's Items on Ebay Vicki's Items on Etsy

I would rather be sick MYSELF......NOT the kids!!!

Sunday night we ended up in the ER so sorry I have not gotten to post much on the blog!

My 3 year old woke up at about 9 coughing, and gasping for air. Our oldest is an asthmatic so we have a nebulizer here and tried that as well as sitting on the pourch for 15 minutes.

When after about 45 minutes we couldn't get him to breath right and he was crying and striding still I pop him in the car and brought him right to the ER.........

NOW IT NEVER FAILS ..........you walk in the ER door and he is doing so much better!!!!!!!!

They took us right in, gave him a room, and were so nice to him. One nurse brought meds, One brought him a bracelet (LOL his pride and joy!) one brought cereal, one brought milk, they waited on him hand and foot, and HE LOVED IT!!!

By the time the 3rd Doctor had come in to see what HE thought. Benjamin was doing much better, meds had kicked in and they told us we would be able to go home!!!!

I told them, "WE just came for cereal" LOL The Doctor said "OH WE KNOW, Happens all the time"

We have a bad case of croop, and broncial spasms, but we are doing better~

Do you have a Group launch coming up??

LET US KNOW SO WE CAN BLOG IT!!!!!

We love to know what is going on for the members, so make sure you pop us an email about your launch!!!

Tips for cleaning up around the house.........

Last week I did a post about 10 minute breaks......



Set a timer and see what you and your children can get done in 10 minutes. My Boys LOVE LOVE LOVE to do this!! I think with kids the key to cleaning is making it a game, or making it fun!!!

SO this week I want to see what YOUR tips are.....



Here is how this will work...



1. Read the post WHOHOOOO (you got the first one done)

2. Write a cleaning tip on your blog, letting others know about the DBCB challenge, and giving them a link back to us.

3. sign your name and DON'T forget to leave a comment.

We will be choosing 2 tips that are our favorites for a free Month advertising spot on the DBCB blog.

MOST OF ALL all the blog readers will have a great list of fun tips to help out around their houses!!!

It never fails...........

Kids get sick.............

YOU GET IT WORST!

PARTY ON THE BLOG!! PARTY ON THE BLOG!!!!

From time to time you are scrolling through other blogs and you find an awesome, So much fun PARTY that you just HAVE to blog about it!!!!

While scrolling alone today, I stumbled on a FUN Blog party, and wanted to let others know about it as well!!!

So far over 100 blogs have done this and WOWOWOWOWOW that is a LOT of people checking out a party!!


I have found these AWESOME things and this my wish list, I SO hope I win!!


1. Olive Kids is giving a 5 pack of placemats (one winner)
2. Topless Under Shirt is giving one winner a blush undershirt
3. Natural Pod are offering a house play pack, with various items for imaginative house play to the value of $150.00 (what my boys would do for that OH YES my BOYS)
4. Positive Chicks is giving a Hoodie and tote

There are TONS of great things being given away SO DON'T take my things LOL!!!

Christine, Kristin, Amanda, and Shanda are the faces of Mommies United! ANd WOW do they have a TON of great info on their blogs! Workouts, trendy things for baby and MOM! VERY down to earth fun bloggin for the mom on a go or just a great place for info while sipping your coffee!


The party only has a few more day's but the blogs will be there even when all the prizes are gone!!!

Treat yourself to a little Something.......

This is an authentic scrabble tile embellished with high quality paper and sealed with a NON TOXIC coating. So it is definately safe for you to wear and safe for the environment. Such a fun little find!!

NO SCHOOL TODAY......

I honestly think that Teacher Work days are a way to punish moms for choosing to be Work at home Moms!!!!! {LAUGHING MY BUTT OFF}

Ok not really, it just WOW does it throw off your whole "Schedule" when there is no school!! The kids are used to their 2 hors away from ME and from EACH OTHER and I get a LOT more done.

It is almost 9 amd I STILL have not gotten to make my coffee.
We have had 2 fights over the Wii already (that got taken away)
It is snowing outside IN THE END OF MARCH (can't go out)

If I get anything "DONE" today it might be a miracle!!!

I clicked on your bag but didn't buy. Why?

Because there were no dimensional measurements.

Because there was no picture of the inside.

Because there was no picture of someone holding it so I could see if it fit over a shoulder.

Because the person photographed holding it looked pissed,and I had to assume the bag made them mad.

Because the pictures are dark or fuzzy.

Because you tagged a wallet/pouch as a purse. ("purse" can mean wallet in other countries)

I'm purse shopping this morning and having a rough time finding what i'm looking for. There are an awful lot of folks creating cool purses, and i'm seeing things I like, but if any of the above statements are true about your purse, I moved on. I've been through over 40 pages and hundreds of clicks and haven't bought yet.

You only get one shot with a buyer.

Make it count!

Hope that helps someone out there selling rad purses!


I myself don't make totes, but I found this from a buyer today and asked her if I could blog it for others! Sometimes as a designer WE don't think about things the way other do....

Just on the chance you didn't know we were crazy before.......

The Monkies have OFFICIALY LOST THEIR MINDS!!!!!!!!!

Search POSHM for more great listings!

Here is a list of those who have started items at 99 cent

NO RESEVERE

country*chick*boutique

renaissanceangel

hippichicksboutique

frogsandflowersboutique

elf*shimmer*design

fluffy*girl*boutique

dobeedodesigns

Keep checking back for more, there is NO telling who might go mad next!!!

BIGCRUMBS...Those pennys add up!!!

I signed up a while back for this and I have recieved $62.37 in my account so far! Those pennies are starting to add up! You can use if for MUCH more that just buying on Ebay! Most online shopping places if you sign in through this you will recieve a credit in your account. I have it set up to go right to my paypal and each month they pop it right in!!!

Check out this site to sign up it is EASY to get started, and I wouldn't blog it if I wasn't using it!

BIGCRUMBS

Boutique and BABIES!!

There are SO many talented designers at DBCB and it is so hard to choose just ONE person to feature. I spend an hour looking through items trying to find ONE thing that stands out to me, but today I just can't so I decided to highlight baby items!!!

SO many moms LOVE unique, trendy items for their little ones that are not going to be seen on every child as you walk around town...... This is where Custom boutique items come into play.

Moms want things for BABY that are not like EVERYONE else, but they don't want to spend a fortune on items for a child growing like a weed. I know my boys were out of things faster than fast, and it seemed everytime I turned around we were buying a new size.

So here is a little list of items I have compiled for those who want to find a FUN, unique, and trendy look for that special little bundle of joy!

Your going to be out and about so why not pop a cute BIB on your little one that is FUN and screams LOOK AT ME!!!! There are quite a few designers who make these at DBCB but all are unique in their own way, and special for YOUR little one. If your little girl has hair, SHE DOESN'T need much, check out the CLIPS that will match every set you can think of!!! If they have NO hair try a cute hat. I know for my boys at times JUST a shirt will do, try just a shirt that is custom with your favorite pants for less expense.

For those moms who want to do ALL OUT there are MANY custom clothing sets available from MANY designers!!

Just remember that if you find a style or item you like but had a different color in mind......MOST DESIGNERS TAKE CUSTOM ORDERS! Don't ever be afraid to email a designer to see what she can pull out of her magic hat!!

MY Coffee cup.........I mean MUG.........

Before I can honestly figure out WHAT I am going to blog about today, I HAVE GOT to get my coffee!!!

Now for those of you who are COFFEE DRINKERS, you will be able to appreciate this. My children know that I AM NOT a morning person.

As My little guy puts it, "MOMMY, Why aren't you talking"

Me, " HUUUUUU"

"Why do you say HUUU," he will say.

BECAUSE I NEED MY COFFEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I can't feel inspired, or bubbly untill I get a little in me!!! SOOOOOOO that is why I LOVE my coffee MUG, I can't really call it a cip, because 2 of them hold the whole 10 pots!! OUR YET it is a seriose mug that says, " I LOVE COFFEE"

It came from a dear friend last year ( I think more people should send me gifts) NO ONE and I repeat NO ONE is aloud to use it, or even eye ball the thing.

OK so I am going to get it NOW and fill it to the top so I can get the insperation flowing for the day!!!!

If at first you don't do it right.................

There is ALWAYS next time....

I KNOW for a fact that I am NOT the only one who has cut a pattern out backwards, sewn the wrong side together, sewn a hem with NO BOBBIN THREAD! Some days (with not enough coffee) I find myself making MORE mistakes than I care to think about.

The lack of sleep, combined with the the phone ringging off the hook, the sound of "Highschool Musical" playing for the 500th time, 5 IM messages popping up at once, the computer freezing in the middle of a blog post, changing the laundry around, vaccumming up the BOX of cereal on the living room floor, breaking another sewing machine needle, THE PHONE AGAIN, DOES NOT HELP while trying to concentrate on sewing ANYTHING not even a straigh line.........Did I mention I ran out of cream for my coffee, and made my hubby stop on the way home form work to get me more???


SO I leave you with this thought in hopes it will help someone other than myself today.......




Failure is the opportunity to begin again more intelligently. Henry Ford

Large Hand Dyed Play Silk Playsilk

Set of 6 large 35" x 35" hand-dyed play silks, in purple, blue, green, yellow, orange and red. All silks are fully hemmed.8 mm silk habotai is a perfect weight for play - sturdy enough to stand up to children, floaty enough to make beautifully billowy capes, scarves, flags, and all the things children dream them to be. The generous 35" x 35" size allows for versatile play, and the quality (measured in "momme" or mm) is the same 8 mm fine and durable quality as playsilks found in the best children's boutiques for a higher price. .Our happy buyers on that other site say: "Beautiful silks rich colors. Fast shipping. Daughter LOVES them. Thank You!" "Gorgeous silks, really delighted." "Beautiful item! I am very impressed with the quality and speed." "Highly recommend!! Fabulous Quality & Beautiful Bright Colors!! Awesome gift!" "Perfect! Cant wait to give to my son! Thanks! Product as described! Great seller" "Absolutely BEAUTIFUL!!!!! great price!!! THANK YOU for the special colors!!!"

Crochet Halter Top Patterns - Buy One Get One Half Off

Here is a chance to get two halter patterns for the price of one and a half! :)You will recieve the PDF files for the Braided Tie Halter Top Pattern and the Euro Hoot Halter Top Pattern (which also comes with the pattern for the cutest little crochet owl!)Spring is around the corner, it'll be halter top season before you know it. These are so fun to make, and they include instructions for ALL SIZES - get 'em now and start making halters for your family and friends. They're so simple to make, you'll want to make them in every color!

Ginger Blossom Perfect for SPRING!

For your kind consideration is this Ginger Blossom Dress in longer length. Included are the Capri pants made from the tile fabric. Your measurements and payment must be sent before any work can begin. Thank you!

10 minute break CHALLENGE.........

I started my venture of Custom boutique items about 2 years ago. I was so tired of sitting at home in a small community unable to work and felt I need a little more for ME! I love being a stay at home mom, but at times you just need a person over the age of 5 to chat with!

My hobby went "POOF" in less than a year, and at this point at times can be hard to keep up with! I no longer see myself as a STAY at home mom, but a WORK at home mom. This seems to be the trend more moms are in right now, and I am sure that at times, as it is for me, it can be hard.

How do you jugle your family, husband, children, house work, and buisness all at once with only two hands?? (My husband says I have 12) How do you have enough time in the day to get it all done? When does it become fun agian instead of WORK?? As a Work at home mom I think we ALL ask these questions...

Try not to take on to much at once. MAKE time for your little ones as they will not be little forever.

I take 10 minute breaks to get things done! SO I want to challenge all of you to take a 10 minute break this week! Set a timer, and just clean for 10 minutes. Make it a game for the kids........who can clean up the most in that 10 minutes. I have found that I can get more done in 10 minutes with a timer on than I even though possible!

Turn on fun toons, dance with the kids while you fold the laundry, those 10 minutes will give you more energy than you think they will! Sometimes just getting ONE thing done will help get the others done as well.

So the Challenge is on...............What did you get done in your 10 minutes??? Let us know..........

Your 10 minutes starts NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!

TONS of work.........

When you just LOOK at a blog you have NO IDEA how much goes into it!!!! I NEVER knew how much time I could porr into a PAGE {giggle}

I love blogging at times it can be so relaxing to just TYPE or post, but at other times, when i WANT to change things, I find it takes days................i stay happy with it all for a few weeks, then on the bigger and better things! It is like that with my house too....My husband has learned NEVER to be surprised if he walks in and the WHOLE livingroom has been changed.

SO pardon our "Mess" right now, I have been changing and adding things for days now and still don't have it where I want it all!

Are you a HOT MAMA???

'hot mama' is now available on an oversized box chain bracelet! antiqued sterling 7 1/2 inch box chain with toggle clasp and hot mama charms or any charm combination you wish. (contact me if you wish to customize a treasure of your own!) to purchase the 'hot mama' bracelet proceed to checkout.

Happy Easter............

The Silent One
Author: Mrs. V. Darlene Anderson



I was there for His trial and His scourging,

when they accused Him of crimes He'd not done;

But I spoke not a word in His defense,

I was "The Silent One."

I was there as He struggled up Calvary,

as dark clouds covered the sun;

And when they nailed His torn flesh to the cross,

I was "The Silent One."

I was there when they cast lots for His garment,

As they jeered and heckled in fun;

And when the spear was thrust deep in His side,

I was "The Silent One."

I saw Him die for all mankind,

And when it was "finished" and done;

He raised Himself up as He promised,

yet-I was "The Silent One."

And now,

everyday I encounter,

lost souls sent my way by God's Son;

Still I act as though I don't know Him,

I am "The Silent One."

Dear Lord, when at last I'm before you,

when my race on earth is run;

Will you speak up for me to the Father?

Or will YOU be "The Silent One?"

Felling a bit..................Crabby??

He is going to be the talk of the boardwalk or anywhere this summer in this set. The fabric has so many silly sea creatures for him to enjoy, such as a whale, an octopus, Sailor Sam and his boat! With a mischievous crab on the front of the tee and some friendly fish friends on the shorts. And of course, a large pocket to hold his treasures.

WHERE DOES the EASTER BUNNY LIVE????

We are riding in the car, and my 6 year old asks very loudly.................

"WHERE DOES the Easter Bunny live?"

Trying to come up with a brilliant answer I look over at my husband to see what he thinks when he responds back..................

"IN a hole"

WHAT I think a HOLE couldn't he come up with something a LITTLE better than that????

So then Alexander asks, "WELL where is the hole?"

Husband responds "It's a MAGIC HOLE, NO ONE knows where it is!"

Benjamin, who is 3 is intently listing to the whole conversation, pipes up fromt he back, "HE DOES NOT live in a HOLE"

Alexander respond, " YES HE DOES, Don't you know silly baby that all rabbits live in holes"

And with that We were happy.........

What are your FAVORITE Signs of spring??

As a designer I LOVE the colors!

BLUE, GREENS, ORANGES, I love the crispness of them, and I love the glow it puts on your skin when you wear them!

In NY it is still snowing! COLD ,COLD and WINDY, BUT the sun is shinning today and the boys have been out playing golf. In about 10 minutes they are cold and back in the house, but just that 10 minutes out in the fresh crisp air helps SO much with the cabin fever we are STILL having!

I am pulling out my Summer cloth........cool cottons with flowers, and tropical prints. Packing away the heavy cords, fleeces,and flannels.

Even with the headache I have, I am in a SPRING cleaning mode..........

I washed the finger prints off the glass door, KNOWING they will be back in about 2 minutes. {giggle} All the ironing is done, the house is clean. I have a little window open to let in a little "spring" air!

We are getting ready for family from out of town, and we are all a buzz about the Easter bunny.

So What are your favorite signs of Spring?? Leave a message in the comment box!!

A STUNNING find!

Clip on the picture to go right to this STUNNING find!

The battle ............3 year old verse MOM!

Do they ever learn? 2 minutes means 2 minutes, and each time you leave your room it starts over!!!!!!!!After throwing the banana bread on the floor because it didn't have enough butter on it.....he sat on the stairs. After screaming till my migrain was so bad my head felt it would split........he went to his room. I sat on the bed with him explained that he had been naughty and that he had a 2 minute time out. The time would start when I set the timer, and if he stayed in his room he could have snuggles in only 2 minutes! He screamed, he threw a fit, he wanted to come out ............HE CAME OUT!! The 2 minutes started over. We went through this for about 6 minutes, till he finaly stopped the screaming. He sat there for the two minutes and then he came down for snuggles. REMIND ME next time I watch Super Nanny that trying new things brings on BIG migraines!!!

Sometimes you HAVE to find the possitive in sales!!!............

Is this how your sales have been???? Find the possitive.... 1. Less to make2. More time for ideas!!!!

TONS of great Spring and Summer items!

Clip on the picture to go right to this great launch!!!!

STUNNING Easter Eggs...............PERFECT for gifts!!

Easter Craft Idea for Kids or AdultsThread Egg Craft Instructions

These beautiful Easter eggs can be used as a decoration or surprise someone with an Easter gift. This is a perfect activity for scout troops, Sunday school, classroom projects, or make them at home as a family activity.
You'll Need:

Small oval balloons

Liquid starch or fabric stiffener

Scissors

Embroidery floss or sewing thread


1. Inflate small oval balloons and tie the necks tightly.



2. Soak 12- to 24-inch lengths of embroidery floss or regular sewing thread (use one color or a variety of colors) in liquid starch or fabric stiffener. Pick up the wet thread and remove excess liquid between your thumb and forefinger.



3. Wrap the wet threads around the balloon one at a time. The thread will stick to the balloon without any additional glue or fastener. Cover the balloon by crisscrossing the threads any way you choose.



4. To dry your new egg, tie an additional piece of dry thread around the neck of the thread-wrapped balloon and hang it until it's dry and hard to the touch. Burst the balloon with a pin and pull the balloon out of the top of the Thread Egg. Place Thread Eggs in a basket or bowl.

FEATURED ETSY STORE!!!

Clip on the picture to go right to the items!

Craft shows.........

Well once again it is time for those .................craft shows.

I myself have 5 in the next 2 months.

Last week I had one and was SOOOO excited about it. I stayed up till 1:30 each night sewing, cutting, making, beading, bowing. I was MORE than tired, but ready for the show when it was time.

I got to the show set up and was ready to go, and we

WAITED.............and WAITED................

The show was dead! If there was another word I would say something else but I can't find another word to put there! The halls were confusing, the people didn't know how to get in and out........ At the end of the day I had a while $84 in my pocket.................. I made more than about 90% of the tables........

SO i chalk it up to this.

I got exposure...
I made a few sales.....
I had a day of just ME......
I got a few local orders.......
I found out about another craft show.....


ALl in all I guess the whole thing wasn't horrible............You live and learn, and hope you make back your table fee!!!!!!!!!!!!

BALLET!!!!!

Clip on the picture to go right to the items!

HOLY MOLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Have you seen how many DBCB listings are on ETSY!?????

WOW tons of great items on there! Great job on all the listings!

Featured Etsy store!!

Clip on the picture to go right to her items!

INTERVIEW with Samantha from WINKELF...

Hi Sharlene,



When did you start Winkelf?

I started WinkElf about a year and a half ago.
Remember the last big fee hike???

Why did you start Winkelf?

For those who don't know me, I am a children's artist and I design ecommerce websites for sellers who want to get off-eBay. Starting your own website is expensive and a lot of work. I was always being asked if I had "smaller" less expensive stores.

When eBay raised it's fees I realized that without another venue we were all at their mercy. Why promote eBay when we can promote ourselves? I definitely had the web skills to do it... I shut my eBay store and built my own site where stores are free, listing is free and we have public/private groups available too!

Are you stay at home mom?

Yes, my daughter Tabytha just started half days jk this year. Thank goodness... she was wearing me out!
I also have a son Austin in grade six.

Do you design, and what?

By profession I am a web designer. Then when I was pregnant with my daughter I discovered that I had natural artistic abilities and started painting children's art. When I needed to build myself a website, I learned ecommerce... the combination of art, ecommerce and web design were a perfect match.

I still paint... but now I do it more for myself than for others. I'm not good at selling my original pieces as I always fall in love with them. I'd be a starving artist if I couldn't offer high quality prints on canvas that look just like the real thing.

How long have you been a designer?

All my life I guess. I was always re-designing my room as a kid. Officially, as a web designer, the summer of 1996 when my son was born. As an artist, the fall of 2002 when pregnant with my daughter.

What was your major in school?

Science and math.
Then later switching to arts and archeology.

What are your goals for Winkelf?

To have a welcoming place dedicated to our love for handmade boutique items. Where designers can promote and sell their goods without selling the farm to pay their fees. I even added a Shop by Group page to promote our boutique items on eBay too! And we cross promote with GoogleBase and MSN Live Products so that you're listings are seen wordwide.

Google - http://www.google.com/products?lmode=online&authorid=1358502&cdn=BOUTiQUE+ViLLAGE&lnk=storeall
MSN Live Products - http://products.live.com/products/results.aspx?q=winkelf&mkt=en-US&go.x=0&go.y=0&go=Search

It's so hard for us moms to stay at home and support our families.
We work 24/7... plus!

Right now, my goal is to move the website to a bigger server since the current one overloaded yesterday. LOL! It's a good thing... it means the site is busy.

Who inspires you?

My daughter... she is so creative! I wish I had that kind freedom of expression. Tabytha is the second little witch in TwoLittleWitches.

Thanks for inviting me to chat with you all at DBCB.
Hopefully I'll see you all on WinkElf too!

Find "IT" on ETSY!!!!

Clip on the picture to go right to her items!

WAGGLEPOP!!!!!

So many of us are looking for new places to join for selling AND BUYING!!!!!!!!!!!

Check out WAGGLEPOP!! $10 gets you a store and that pays for EVERYTHING list till you can list no more!!!

So sick of Ebay, and I know most people are! Change things by MOVING! Strikes are great, but Don'T GO BACK TO THEM if you honestly want to make a stand!

www.wagglepop.com

Go open a store and don't forget to add your link so we can find your items!

For the Monkey in your life...........

Clip on the picture to go right to this stunning item!


Clip on the picture to go right to this stunning item!

FEATURE WINK ELF STORE!!!!

Clip on the picture to go right to her items!

Stripework twirl set!

Clip on the picture to go right to this stunning item!

EBAY at it again ............WHAT CAN WE DO???

SO many think that boycotting ebay for a week will help, but when we REALLY THINK ABOUT IT this is going to do nothing! I am not saying STOP selling on ebay, I don't plan to just yet either LOL

Sad as it is Ebay has gotten ahold of all of us and we are stuck in the grasp!

WHAT WE CAN DO, is branch out EVEN MORE!
DBCB has brought so many listings to Etsy, and NOW my goal is to help Samantha do JUST that at WILKELF!!!

I myself so not know Samamntha, but I have been on her site for over a year, and I LOVE how it works. I love that it is easy to use, and that it is more exposure for me as a designer! She has a great site, but I think she needs us to help her make it even more great! TELL EVERYONE YOU KNOW!! BRING YOUR BUYERS, and open a store over at winkelf!

http://www.winkelf.com/index.php

The cost to have a store there is even cheaper than ETSY! and it is for US the boutique community! Open a store and tell your buyers that you have. I know many of you have newsletters, I KNOW I DO!!! I am listing as much as I can on the site, and then I will be emailing my newsletters "groupies"

WILL YOU TAKE THE CHALLENGE?????

Anyone who opens a store, and lists 2 items will get a free linked add on the DBCB blog, just email me a link to your store and a link to your logo!! SIMPLE EASY AND FREE!!!

THIS is what will hurt ebay, not pulling your listings for a week!

Check it out lady, $5!!!! That is all! and you can list till you can list no more!!!

LETS ROCK WILKELF DBCB!!