Things I Like Thursday

I am chaos.  My house and usually anything going on in it, is sort of well...chaotic.  I forget about appointments until last minute along with most other things I have going on.  Since starting Inner Hooker, ok well in the last few weeks I have at least organized my business side of life...strictly out of neccessity!  I know my home would run much smoother and stay much cleaner if everything had it's place and if I stayed on top of it better.  I have unfortunately passed this procrastinating lifestyle onto my daughter.  She never gives me school papers and is terrible about telling me "we have to have XXXX tomorrow for school"  at 10pm the night before. 

I  have always wanted a central area. A place where everyone's stuff goes so school papers actually get to me, so bills never get tossed on a table or counter and lost forever, a place to distribute chores! Oh wait, my child doesn't really do chores! I really should have instilled this earlier. These poor little babies are getting a momma that has already ruined one child and learned many lessons of what not to do! D'Lea Designs shares her family's Command Central and tells you how to make one for yourself!

As much as I love D'Lea's I do realize it is probably more organized than myself or my family ever will be. Kara shares her simple mail/key/purse drop area. I love this! So simple and so cute! I am terrible about leaving my keys on the front table, kitchen table, in the diaper bag, on the counter, etc...I never put them in the same place. I think the fact that I come in 2 different doors has a little bit of the blame but mostly it's just me. I need to start putting stuff in it's place! Now, just to make one of these! Head over to Kara's Korner to see how!

and since we are sort of on house type stuff....how about a Halloween wreath? I really don't care for Halloween...or decorating for holidays months in advance but if you are a procrastinator like me busy you may want to make this in the next few weeks so you are ready for October! Or you can be like Linda at Craftaholics Anonymous and put it up in August ;)

Head over to CA for the tutorial.

Yep...these are the things I like...today anyways ;)

Things I Like Thursday...yeah a little late; some love and tutes for the boys!

As promised earlier a few tutorials for hats for the boys!  I wont give the entire rundown of the charity this will benefit; to read more and get the links go to this post.

For our seamstresses;

Radical Cross Stitch shares their tutorial for the Easiest Baby Hat Ever. I love that they added the little star, they have a few more examples on their site...so cute!

I found this adorable Gnome Hat on FaveCrafts.  Pattern was written by Beth Ritzman for BabyEtte Boutique.  You can find the tutorial here.

and this simple preemie size hat.  This could be made up in lots of fun prints, embellished or embroidered.  To get the pattern head over to Extraordinary Ordinary Life.

For the knitters;

I just found the blog Spud and Chloe.  It is filled with amazing, beautiful FREE knitting patterns!!  I seriously LOVE this Dream Catcher hat.  It makes me wish I could knit! 

Another great one is the Apple Hat.

and another cute one at Knitting on the Net

and last but not least some for the hookers

Christ, Coffee, and Knitting Needles shares her pattern for the Miracle Preemie Hat.  This is too cute, essentially a little earflap beanie.  I would whip this up in some great boy colors.

Knittery in the Crochet shares her Bubblegum baby hat

Ribbed Cap Baby Wrap hat is so simple but I love it!  You can find the pattern at Celtic Mommy about half way down the page.  There are also a few other freebies there that would be great!

Squiggles and Grins hat can be found at the Lion Brand website.  You do have to register, but I honestly have never been spammed, never even received an email or offer from them

As with most free patterns they typically only have 1 size and they don't always have the best final pictures.  They are free though and there are plenty out there!  Didn't see one you like???  Head over to Etsy, they have about a million you can buy!

Things I Like Thursday; let's give back

WARNING:  this post is link heavy.  I promise they all bring you to a great cause or a great and FREE tutorial.  WE LOVE FREE!!!

Morning all! Hope you are having a good week! I know I missed Wanna Make It...yet again BUT I had a busy day of Have To Make It yesterday. In all honesty I was sewing the owl's nose onto the hat while Ciara (Ciara Hammonds Photography) was taking pictures of other hats. Nothing like pushing it to the very. last. minute.  I can't wait to share some of the new pictures with you...what I have seen so far is ADORABLE!

I do have some Wanna Makes lined up for next week so keep your eyes peeled for your own post so we can have our weekly see and share!

Now, onto Things I Like Thursday...

My last few weeks have been in regards to collections or drives that benefit a cause. I love these. I think it's a great way to do something small and show people that the world is still good.  These people are being hit with overwhelming emotions and decisions and am fairly sure could use a little extra support and love. It also gives you a little warm and fuzzy feeling on the inside doesn't it? Everyone wins!

If you haven't checked these 2 out yet, head over and do so!

Karter's Bow of Faith we talked about a few weeks back in this post.  She has had a really good turnout! Tara is talking about expanding to a few nearby hospitals and I am REALLY hoping I can help with one in my area. They currently are being sure all the little babies in Dallas Childrens Medical Center are bowed and hatted up and sharing with other units and hospitals as they can. Don't forget those baby boys! If you have hat making skills get on it! 

Nobody wants their boy in a bow...just ask my husband ;)

I saw this great little tutorial on Craftiness is not Optional for a soft, stretchy no scratch headband.

PERFECT!!! You could whip a handful of these up with just 1 T-shirt. I would use a brand new (washed) T for these little babies but you could use any 'ol shirt for you own ankle biters.  There is also a tutorial for a really cute fabric flower. 

Wouldn't that would be a great addition to this headband?  You can find it HERE.

Want a free bow tutorial?  These are actually few and far between.  BUT I did manage to find 2 really good ones to share with you!

First up, Mrs. Sassy Crafter shares how to make her boutique and korker bows!!  These could be made in just about any size, color, etc... and made for SUPAH cheap!  Go to her tutorial and make a few to send off to Karter's Bows! 

click here for the boutique bow tute

click here for the korker bow tute

I actually have everything to make both of the above...maybe I should get busy??

I also have a free tute on my blog for a simple crochet headband. 

We also highlighted Natasha at Samster Mommy's Tutu Drive a few weeks back in this post.

Her deadline has been expanded until the end of July. Please, please whip one of these up for her! Again, boys may get the raw end so if you have the time and skill let's get the boys a few superhero capes or other manly things. She has a handful of tutorials up to get you started. Can't craft or don't have the time? There are also a few stores working with her giving killer deals on pricing or buy 1 they donate an extra. Go check it out and get started. Even Karly (my sometimes selfish and gifted with only child syndrome) got involved in this one! She spent her OWN money (hobby lobby coupon in hand) and bought the tulle, (I did help cut it since we use a straight blade) and then made this by herself to donate to another sick child. I think she may finally understand that kids, yes her age and even younger get very sick. ahhh makes a momma's heart all mushy to see her child helping others!  Since we are dropping ours at the post tomorrow I think we can now snag this new button! 

Come on....you know you want one ;)

Like I said you have 2 weeks left to get your tutu on. Karter's Bows I am fairly certain will be an ongoing thing. Needless to say I probably need another one do-gooder, spread the word and the love project pretty soon and unfortunately the world is full of sadness, sickness and death so there is never a shortage on these. I'll keep you posted with the next project.

Did you notice I talk about the poor boys not getting items as often as girls and then didn't link up to anything acceptable for boys???  Umm yeah, I just noticed!  Eeeeekkkk!  Off to find some good boy items...I'll be back soon with a few for ya!

Things I Like Thursday

This week I have another Thing I Like that I don't really LIKE so to speak...this post will be a little link heavy to be sure you have access to all of the info!

Again...more sick babies. There is truly nothing worse than sick children. I am beyond thankful that my kids have been so healthy. Unfortunately not all children are so lucky.

{sidenote:  Remember the blog post about Karter's bow collection??  If you missed it, you can read more here.  I hope you have all made a few bow/hats for Karter's Bows of Faith! The first batch is being distributed today I think! Karter had open heart surgery yesterday...at just 11 weeks old!  No updates yet.  You can get more updates from their blog or their facebook! Spread the word!}

Now...back to the subject at hand.

Tutu Drive 2010

Natasha over at Samster Mommy...one of my favorite blogs (seriously that b&w pic of her and that skinny little baby melts my heart every time...go look at it now! so precious right!?) Samster Mommy is organizing a tutu drive to collect 100 tutu's to donate to the Princess Alexa Foundation. You are also encouraged to donate capes for the boys, crowns, wands, pretty much anything little boys and girls can play dress up in. If you have kids or have been around them you know they LOVE dressing up

The foundation was started by a mom named Crys in honor of her daughter Alexa. Alexa battled cancer from the ripe age of 2 and lost her battle at 4 years old. Truly heartbreaking.

photo courtesy of www.princessalexafoundation.org

Go find out more about Alexa and how you can help!

Even Karly has decided she will make a few tutus for these children. Don't know how to make a tutu?? You can buy one to donate (just keep the tags on)! OR follow Samster Mommy, she will be posting a few tutu tutorials, in fact she already has the first tutorial up.  There are a few tiny requirements on these to ensure the health of these kids isn't compromised.  Seriously teeny tiny things like the fact that they can't be used.  Only new and handmade items.

Don't forget to 'like' the Alexa Foundation on Facebook.  This will also help spread the word and help these kids!  Head over to Samster Mommy and grab a blog button...even if you can't participate you can help spread the word!

Things I Like Thursday

First of all I don't "like" the fact that an organization like this is needed.  I can't think of anything worse than a sick child.  I like the fact that a mom saw something she could organize and help make a difference.

My cousin went to school with this woman.  This woman is Tara, she is Karter's mom (love the name).  Karter is sick and lives at the hospital for now.  Here is a blurb from her mom's blog post.  You can see the entire post and read more about Karter's journey HERE.

"Okay ladies listen up! I am starting up a collection in HONOR of Karter for the little girls here at Children’s Medical Center. Upon walking into Karter’s room yesterday all I could see machines, tubes, and lines hooked up to my precious angel. However, last night she was given another bow to put onto one of her wires….This changed everything!!! You would not even imagine the difference seeing a bow made on my little girl. Instead of seeing the wires and tubes I just saw a sleeping beauty. The bow made all the difference in the world to me and made me realize that she is still my baby girl!

So with this discovery I have decided to start up a collection in Honor of Karter called Karter’s Bow of Faith. I am asking for all donation of bows of any size, shape, and color! These bows will be given to the girls at Children’s Medical Center. You can mail them to me or we will pick them up. I will be attaching a little prayer to each bow and will even attach your name if you would like. Please help me help other families see their sleeping beauties amidst all of their medical problems. I know that by receiving these bows we will be lighting up the life of lots of little girls. Please pass the word and contact me with any questions here on our blog or on Facebook!

Thank you so much for your time and consideration! With your help I know Karter’s Bow of Faith will be a great success!

Love,

Tara McHam"

I am sure most of us can whip up at least one bow, headband or hat right??  Don't have a pattern, use my free headband tutorial!  Know how to make ribbon headbands, knit ones, there are really no restrictions.  Let's show Karter and the other babies some love and give their parents the chance to see something a little "normal" on their babies instead of life saving equipment.  I have messaged Tara for the address to send these to, I'll keep ya posted!

Things I Like Thursday

I don't think I have ever devoted an entire post to just ONE thing that I like...until today. These are so gorgeous and she has lots of links and pictures!  In hopes of not overwhelming you I am sticking with one thing!

Enter Whippy Cake!  

The headbands are gorgeous, the models definitely aren't hurting the pictures or products either! This is seriously just pretty person and item one after another. Oh and did I mention she is from Arizona?? Ah yeah, little home town shout out! 

See, I told you!  Gorgeous right???  Almost makes me hope this baby cooking is a girl...then I remember Karly and I can sport these and go back to hoping for a boy! 

Not only do they make great products, there is a blog and YouTube videos for some adorable hair do's (is that how you spell it?)  She even says they are great for Day 2 or Day 3 hair!  ha ha...love it!  Gotta love a girl that keeps it real.  I wish I could make it to Day 3; my thin hair would be uber NASTY by then!

  Ok, go prepare to drool....over the good stuff...not the thought of my greasy hair ;)

Click on any of the below to visit

Whippy Cake Etsy store

Whippy Cake Blog

Whippy Cake YouTube

Still haven't had enough?  UCreate is hosting a giveaway.  It ends tomorrow so go check it out!  If you win, you owe me though!

Things I Like Thursday 04/29

Let's jump right in! As usual I have a random collection of things I like...none of which I have, all of which I want!

First up...

I wanted one of these when I was pregnant with Sawyer. Of course I said..."I can make that myself".   (side note: have you ever been to a craft fair and seen those signs that say "sure you can make it yourself, but you know you won't so just buy it" ?? I need one of those signs on a necklace)  Needless to say I never made it and now Sawyer is 10 months old. Maybe the next baby will get one?? I love this one best!

Want one for yourself?  Head over to MollyAnnMake

Second up....

Have you heard of or seen Lime Ricki Swimwear? They sell themselves as trendy yet modest swimwear. Have you seen some of the bathing suits for young girls these days? Jeez skankalicious! Well, my Karly is FAR too young or maybe just too small to fit into any of these but I do love them! I am half tempted to order one for me! These are my faves...for now anyways! I think they are adorable and lets get real, no one wants to see this nasty stretch marked belly! I just wonder how good they are for us busty gals? They say big busted but show it on a model with a B cup. Is a B cup busty now? maybe for a model? Anyways...I'll be needing a suit this year, one that can accommodate "the girls" and an expanding belly while still looking cute and flattering. Too much to ask? If you have any recommendations SHARE WITH ME!

Next up....

Sara at Savvy Stitcher makes these adorable headbands along with other stuff....such as super cute bibs, coffee sleeves and hats! Sara is a definite do gooder and donates an item for many of her items sold! Hello??? Love that! If you have a baby, baby shower or are looking for a cute reasonable gift for yourself check her out! For more info on what she donates and to where or for some morning coffee reading, check out her blog. Ready to shop? Head over to her Etsy.

Things I like Thursday 04/22

Hmmm...I never know just what to highlight. I mean, I like A LOT of things!

Here are this weeks picks! There is zero rhyme or reason to this list. Hope you are not a "have to have a theme" type of person!

First up...Chris and I just planted a garden. Well, Chris actually planted the first one and I just got the second one going last night. If I can say so mine is much cuter...just don't tell Chris! One problem I did run into; I started seeds in little leftover plant holder things. Well.....I started with Serrano peppers, then I remembered Chris had some peas that never made it out of the package so I threw some of them in the empty spots and waited for sprouts. Oops! I forgot to label what was what! Needless to say I think I transplanted the peas into the ground this evening. I am pretty sure its what they are anyways! I have the peppers I am waiting on, cucumbers, carrots, green beans and cilantro. I think I am going to do an herb garden in the other flower bed that has no flowers! How cute would these markers be??? Plus, I would know what is what :)

I found these at Magpiedesignz; lovin them.  Seriously check out this shop...gorgeous stuff in there!  I found a few things I may HAVE to have!

I found these adorable veggie ones at Daisychestnut

Totally switching gears from gardening to baby

I wanted this tub last time and didn't get it. Since I won't really be needing/getting much this time around I think I deserve this tub! It may have to be a gift to myself! I hate those huge tubs that take up the entire bathtub and the water pools in weird spots. The Puj tub is brilliant. You know, one of those things you see and think "I totally should have thought of that myself" yep, this is one of those!

Pretty brilliant right?

and last but not least

Tough Titties Nipple Rub...ha ha! I am totally judging this book by its cover! LOVE the name! You can find this at Least Likely To Breed.  She has a handful of other super clever borderline inappropriately named options....Bad Ass Booty Balm, Roid Rage and Hand Job are a few others. There are also totally G rated options in store as well! They also have a website with a lot more info and even some all natural recipes! With such great prices I would never bother doing it myself but hey you might want to so Ill link you to the recipes too! I will for sure be purchasing some of this come feeding time!

Hope you enjoyed Things I Like Thursday!  See ya next week!