hoffee and a nuffin

My House Smells Like...

2012-02-01T12:17:00.000-08:00

Oh, so good Caramel Corn!

Would you like the recipe?

Just so you know, this recipe can be divided. I use a deep non-stick roasting pan as it makes easy work of stirring the popcorn without losing any over the sides. You'll discover that this is a very easy treat to make and people will be asking for more. ENJOY!

Baking Cookies - Goodbye January

2012-01-31T19:25:00.000-08:00

Those of you who know me know that I love to bake. I've been wanting to bake something out of the Chocolate from the Cake Mix Doctor book since I bought nearly a dozen cake mixes when they were about a buck a piece a while ago (and many of them had double Box Tops on them!) During Christmas I had marked a page for Chocolate Cinnamon Chip Chewies and never actually got around to baking them. I didn't have cinnamon chips, but figured that with the base for this cookie I can pretty much add what I want, or nothing at all. Monkey #1, like his mommy likes chocolate chips, but Monkey #2, for some reason, likes his cookies "with nothing in it."

It's actually a pretty easy recipe to throw together. That is, unless you melt a whole stick of butter instead of the HALF stick the recipe calls for. Yep, I put the whole melted stick in the mixer and then realized that four tablespoons is only half of a stick. Doh!

What to do?

Naturally, the solution is to double the rest of the ingredients, right? Here's what you get:

Mmmmm.... CHOCOLATE!

The first batch to go in (always!) has "nothing in it" for Monkey #2. The second batch simply had a walnut half pressed into the top of the dough. Those are Daddy's cookies. Then we add the chocolate chips! Just for fun... some sprinkles, too!

What to they taste like? You know how when you bake a batch of brownies and the edges have a gently chewy texture, and the insides are super rich and moist? These cookies are just like the edges of brownies. They taste like brownies. They're soft and moist in the middle and the outside resembles the chewy texture of the edges. A glass of milk is almost required because they're so rich!

I have a feeling some cookies will be going to work and school tomorrow. A double batch of cookies means more for SHARING.

More Rain...

2012-01-24T11:15:00.001-08:00

Our Pond

I always try to be optimistic. People have this idea that it rains ALL the time in Oregon and I have to argue that it really doesn't. Actually, we've gone quite a long stretch with dry weather until just recently. You know the saying, "When it rains, it pours."

I hope you're staying warm and DRY wherever you are!

Super Mario Hat: COMPLETED!

2012-01-21T17:52:00.000-08:00

It seems like it took for-ev-er to get this hat made, and now it's finally completed. This hat was made as a birthday present for my son's best friend. LUCKY boys, huh?

(Hat model is my very own Monkey #2)

I came across this hat pattern in December when I was deciding on hats to make for the boys for winter. Each character on this hat was selected by Monkey #1. There are some really cool charts online (check them out here and here), although when you pick charts created for cross stitch they look a little scrunched on a knitted hat because the knitted stitch is NOT square. Keep this in mind when you get to making one for yourself!

The possibilities are endless... what will you make?

Angry Birds - Green Pig Pattern Notes

2012-01-16T14:20:00.000-08:00

Angry Birds. It's a love/hate kind of thing. And those PIGS! Those pigs that laugh and taunt you just because you couldn't get that one last little piggy... You've got to try again. You MUST not let them beat you. You WILL get them. You DID IT! Then, with the next level it starts all over again. You play, you don't quite complete this level, then those nasty pigs laugh. Taunting you... You WILL get them.

My little one asked for a green pig hat this winter. But not just any pig, a KING pig. It was my Christmas present for him and BOY was he specific on the details! He's one lucky little boy that I love him so very much. I didn't have a pattern for one, nor did I want to BUY one. I didn't plan on making more than his AND I know that Rovio isn't too keen on people selling items made that resemble their characters. There's that whole "intellectual property" thing. Heck, if you were to come up with the idea, wouldn't you want to protect it, too?

What I'm going to give you are my pattern notes for making the pig details. Hey, I like to share! This is not a completed pattern for a hat. You may not put this together and SELL it as a completed pattern nor may you use these notes and pass them off as your own. That is a no-no. I have no control what you do with your completed items, but they really should be for personal use only.

Have you got your hooks ready? Skills required: (sc) single crochet; (hdc) half double crochet; (sl st) slip stitch; magic loop; invisible join. (Not sure how to do a magic loop or an invisible join? Check YouTube!)

For the hat, use your favorite crocheted hat pattern. This is your choice! If you don't have one, visit Ravelry.com or CrochetPatternCentral.com for one.

SNOUT: WW - Green yarn. Size I hook. (Make 2)

Ch 8.

(Round 1) 3 sc in 2nd st from hook. Sc in next 5 sts. 3 sc in last st. Do not join.

(Round 2) 2 sc in next 3 sts. Sc in next 5 sts. 2 sc in next 3 sts. Sc in next 5 sts.

(Round 3) Sc in next 2 sts. 2 sc in next 2 sts. Sc in next 9 sts. 2 sc in next 2 sts. Sc in next 6 sts. Finish with invisible join. Slip stitch two pieces together.

EARS: WW - Green and black yarn. Size I hook. (Make 2)

Step A.) Front of ear: Start with black. Magic loop, hdc 8 in loop. Change to green. Hdc 2 in each around. Finish with invisible join.
Step B.) Back of ear: Repeat stitch pattern for front, this time only using green. Slip stitch two pieces together. (This makes one ear.)

EYES: WW - White. Size G hook. (Make 2)

Magic loop, sc 8 in loop; 2 sc in each around. Finish with invisible join.

PUPILS: Sport weight - Black. Size E hook. (Make 2)
Magic loop, sc 8 in loop; 2 sc in each around. Finish with invisible join.

How are your sewing skills? Now grab a needle and thread and get to sewing all of your parts to the hat. ENJOY! I'd love to see your finished pig hats. Come back and post a link to your work below.

Oh, and I didn't forget about the crown. I'll have to work on those notes and post that for you as soon as possible. SQUAWK!

SNOW DAY!

2012-01-15T12:24:00.001-08:00

Okay, don't laugh... technically it snowed but it's really nothing to brag about. It was enough, however, that the monkeys got to go out and enjoy a few minutes of the wintry weather.

"Don't try catching snowflakes on your tongue unless you are SURE all the birds have gone south for the winter."

A brother is a friend given by nature.

It's always nice to come back in for a cup of cocoa!

If it's snowing where you are, ENJOY!

Love, Love, Love

2012-01-11T12:47:00.001-08:00

Hmmm... I'm noticing a trend here.

What inspires you?

Be Mine, Valentine

2012-01-09T13:54:00.001-08:00

I know I just put a few snowflakes in the window last week, but I couldn't resist cutting and placing these little hearts in the windows, too! Valentine's Day is right around the corner but it IS still winter!

...and we haven't had any real snow yet.

Speaking of Valentine's Day, there's something new today! I managed to create another Conversation Heart Sock Monkey. I don't think there will be many more of these made this year... I'd imagine maybe one or two more? (Hurry, get yours... quickly!)

Don't forget about the GIVEAWAY at CrazySocks Crochet's Blog. There is still a sock monkey waiting to hear where her new home will be. Will you win her? Good luck to everyone who has entered!

Cookies For Lunch

2012-01-06T14:23:00.001-08:00

Don't judge me. Some days are just like this. If it weren't for a very kind uncle I wouldn't have these delicious cookies sitting on the counter, taunting me. If we didn't already have so many yummy, sweet treats for the holidays, these would be gone already!

I spent the morning at school in the classroom of one of my boys. I do love the Kindergartners so much and think all the time of how lucky their teacher is to get to be with all of them every day. Even more important is how lucky THEY are to have her, and how they are lucky to get to be with HER every day. She's the BEST!

BOTH of my boys were awarded for creativity during the school's Pride Assembly. Along with receiving certificates, they were treated to have lunch with their Principal and students from other grades. I helped out and was so very proud of them to get to be included in this event. The kids received lunch, pencils, a book of their choice, ice cream, and then they played a game of Bingo for a chance to win a football jersey with their name and school mascot on it. They all seemed to have a lot of fun!

On my way home I stopped at the grocery store where I picked up these delicious little Clementines. It's so hard for me to buy citrus in Oregon, having grown up in Southern California. No, having grown up in the Citrus Capital of the World! NOTHING I buy here will ever compare to citrus picked fresh from a tree in Southern California. These little Clementines, though, are pretty good (and ON SALE - score!)

This box is cute, but not as cute as "Cuties" with the little zipper on the "Easy Peel" label. (Yeah... I've got a thing for labels/packaging.)

Weekly Organization Challenge - The Desk

2012-01-05T12:10:00.000-08:00

Danyel at CrazySocks Crochet is one motivated chickie! I've decided to hop on board with her Weekly Organization Challenge and get my own house back in order. This week's challenge is the desk. Since I cleaned the office last week upon the arrival of our new printer, that shared space was already pretty tidy. What really needed attention was my sewing desk. Sewing and cutting socks creates a LOT of fiber dust!

Here are the two desks before:

They're not horrible, but they can be improved (and DUSTED!) My sewing desk has collected some things on the corner that don't belong. This one's tricky and I'll explain why...

Here they are after:

I had mentioned before that the office desk is a shared space. Some things are mine, some are not. I'll not remove/relocate the equipment that's not mine. Some day they'll find a special place of their own, but for now they will exist on the back corner of the desk. Now the sewing desk...

It may not seem organized but it is, I promise! Everything you see is exactly where it should be. The socks on the left? That's where I know I'll find them when I need the spare parts. I had a bin for scraps once. I filled it and I put it away. I never opened it again! This way they're front and center and will be used and the bits and pieces will be recycled as best as possible (think snow monkey ornaments.) The keyboard tray holds socks that are most likely to be used next. Think of it as a "stand-by" station.

For anybody keeping track: I did get a few snowflakes made today. The monkey helped by putting them in our window.

Let it snow!

Let's Talk About the Weather

2012-01-04T16:43:00.000-08:00

Today was the boys' first day back to school and it was such a beautiful day to send them back. It was so nice this morning that I opened the windows to let some fresh air in. For the Pacific Northwest, it hardly feels like winter, but the weather quickly turned to prove to be a typical PNW day.

Cocoa, anyone?

Words of Wisdom

2012-01-03T15:08:00.000-08:00

The Littlest Monkey Gets a Haircut

2012-01-02T14:02:00.000-08:00

Today, we were SUPPOSED to make paper snowflakes. The day isn't over yet.

Last night the littlest monkey decided he wanted his hair short. "Like Kirby, " he said. (I believe Kirby has NO hair.) Daddy was VERY on board for this idea. Mom - not so much! Part of the fun of having shorter hair is the "bathtub mohawk". This works MUCH better now than it had before, so that's a plus. Out of the tub and a little gel and, voila!

In the end I'm happy with the way it turned out. It's MUCH shorter than it was before, but not too short! Actually, looking at it here, it could maybe go just a tad shorter...

Oh, and hey! If you haven't heard yet, be sure to visit my friend at CrazySocks Crochet and check out her awesome giveaway. You can enter to win a hat, a cowl, and this sock monkey made by yours truly!

Good luck!

Another New Year!

2012-01-01T15:59:00.000-08:00

Last night was a quiet evening spent at home with my family. We made more food than we could eat alone, but it was SO good! (Who doesn't like leftovers, anyway?) We made smokies wrapped in bacon, homemade pretzels, and cheese fondue served with cubed dark rye and french bread. (Our fondue failed, but we'll try again another time and keep trying until it's PERFECT!)

Staying up much past 10PM is not something I'm used to doing these days (though it was highly common for me about 8 years ago and even before that as a graveyard waitress.) No, anymore I'm crashed out on the couch by about 10 o'clock. Last night I DID stay up to see the fireworks. Sadly, I can't say the same for the monkeys.

I can't wait until these delicious little cookies are gone! Since all of our decorations were put away yesterday, this morning was a leisurely one.

I don't make resolutions. I pretty much suck at keeping them! Instead, I have some little goals to work for, but I'm not going to make a big deal about not following through with something if life happens to throw a curveball or two. I've learned it's best to take each day one at a time and to learn to roll with the punches.

HAPPY NEW YEAR! I'm anticipating some positive changes and I hope 2012 is great for you, too!

The 5 Year Old Makes His Own Breakfast

2011-10-04T10:17:00.001-07:00

Oh, boy... it's been a morning. My little one doesn't have school today and wanted to make eggs for breakfast. Not just any eggs. Yoshi eggs!

I'm tidying up from baking this morning and getting dinner started and in the crock pot. He insists on coloring his eggs so he can have Yoshi eggs. I tell him, "That's okay, sit at the table and PLEASE do not break the eggs!"

"Okay, Mommy." he says.

He sat and did a really nice job of coloring green spots on one egg. As proud as he was he carried it around with him. I ask him, "PLEASE sit at the table with it and DO NOT DROP the egg."

He sat at the table. "Okay, Mommy." he says.

A couple of minutes later, as I'm about to finish cleaning the dishes, I hear "SPLAT!" Then silence. "Mommy, I'm sooooo sorry. It was an accident."

I know this. I know he didn't mean for it to fall to the floor. Some things you JUST KNOW are going to happen no matter how much you warn and advise. I tell him, "It's okay. I know you didn't MEAN to break the egg. Please go sit in the other room and wait patiently for me to finish cleaning up."

"But Mommy, I want Yoshi eggs for breakfast. I'll get another egg!"

Um... no.

I did let Mr. Independent crack his own eggs and scramble them in the bowl. He did a really good job and was proud to eat his Yoshi eggs with a fresh baked banana muffin for breakfast. I sure do love him... messes and all!

New Pink Monkey

2011-08-25T12:27:00.000-07:00

Just added today! I'm sure I won't have her for long as the pink ones are usually claimed pretty quickly. I'll enjoy her for as long as I can!

I hope you enjoy her, too!

Something New Today

2011-08-24T11:22:00.000-07:00

I've just added a new sock monkey to the shop this morning. (Well, now almost afternoon!)

It's a little one and would be perfect as a special little someone's First Sock Monkey. They are easy to care for as they can be washed in a machine (gentle cycle with mild detergent) and left out to air dry.

Feel free to visit my shop for many other items I have available. Christmas is just around the corner and will be here before we know it. Do you have a coffee lover to buy for? I have many coffee socks available and even a knitting pattern if you'd rather DIY!

Have a wonderful day!

For the love of gnomes!

2011-08-04T08:04:00.000-07:00

As some of you may know I've been working on making clay gnomes for sets stitch markers. I had many gnome couples on the table. Waiting patiently. The more I looked at them, the more this one couple stood out as they reminded me of the August birthstone, peridot.

My birthday is in August. How could I NOT make them into a pair of earrings?! The problem: I don't wear a lot of jewelry and wouldn't actually wear them myself. So... to celebrate August birthdays, they're listed. The ONLY pair. They are truly ONE OF A KIND. Hope you love them, too!

HOW-TO TUESDAY

2011-07-26T12:42:00.001-07:00

When working with polymer clay, sometimes it can be difficult to get all of the clay off of my hands with just soap and water. In high school I had used a mechanic's orange pumice that worked great, but it wasn't something that I kept regularly for myself.

Recently I have discovered using coffee. I've read that coffee is actually good for your skin, and I love the added bonus of scrubbing power brought on by the grounds.

SUPPLIES YOU'LL NEED TO MAKE YOUR SOAP:

Melt & Pour soap base (offered at craft stores. Don't forget to use your coupons!)
Ground coffee
Vitamin E oil (optional)
Plastic food container (yogurt) or other type of recycled container (microwave safe)
Plastic spoon or other tool for stirring
Mold

WHAT I DID: I bought a large brick of melt and pour goat's milk soap base and cut 8 portions out of the brick and melted it in a 16oz sour cream container. (Melt your soap according to package directions.) This makes about 1c of soap. Next I added 1/4c of coffee and about 1 teaspoon of Vitamin E oil to the melted soap. (The Vitamin E oil is not necessary, the soap is mostly for scrubbing the clay off of your hands.) Stir with a plastic spoon until combined and pour into molds. Having children in the house helps to have all sorts of fun stuff on hand, and today I used their silicon molds to make Lego Minifigs to keep at the sink.

The nice part about using a recycled container and plastic spoon is that it makes clean up a breeze. Just toss them in the trash!

Kodiak Inspired Coffee Sock Knitting Pattern

2011-07-25T05:47:00.000-07:00

Well, I finally did it! I finally got the pattern for my Kodiak Coffee Sock written and now it's available for purchase. It's pretty easy and I hope you enjoy it!

Happy knitting!

Mug Cozy and Coaster, All-In-One!

2011-05-21T10:21:00.000-07:00

I'm pleased to share something new with you! My friend at CrazySocksCrochet wrote a fantastic and easy-to-follow pattern for this cozy, called Grandma Mae's Mug Cozy.

I'll have some available for sale soon in my Etsy shop. Keep a close watch for updates on my Facebook page, and don't forget to 'like' it and suggest it to your friends, too!

Have a fun and crafty day!

Friday Funnies

2011-04-15T06:11:00.000-07:00

ALL I EVER NEEDED TO KNOW ABOUT LIFE I LEARNED FROM THE EASTER BUNNY

Don’t put all of your eggs in one basket.
Walk softly and carry a big carrot.
Everyone needs a friend who is all ears.
There’s no such thing as too much candy.
All work and no play can make you a basket case.
A cute little tail attracts a lot of attention.
Everyone is entitled to a bad hare day.
Let happy thoughts multiply like rabbits.
Some body parts should be floppy.
Keep your paws off other people’s jellybeans.
Good things come in small sugar-coated packages.
The grass is always greener in someone else’s basket.
An Easter bonnet can tame even the wildest hare.
To show your true colors – you have to come out of your shell.
The best things in life are still sweet and gooey.

Author Unknown

5 Years Ago, On This Day...

2011-02-28T08:10:00.000-08:00

I went in for my last day of work before taking maternity leave. It was Declan's scheduled due date. My mom had arrived from California the night before to help out when he came.

The morning was typical and work as usual. A few hours in I was talking with a coworker about how I was feeling, explaining contractions and some minor discomfort and she said, "Um... you're in labor!" Okay... that made sense. I decided it was time to get headed home.

On my drive home I was realizing how the contractions were becoming stronger and stronger. I hated at that moment that it was about a 30 minute drive from work to home, and that I was alone. I was focused and determined to make it home without panic and before I knew it I was there. Whew! Now a phone call to the hospital.

The nurse said that the contractions were far enough apart to stay home, relax, maybe take a shower and check back in a little while. We called our doctor to give him a head's up, too. I decided to take a shower, get myself together and get ready to have a baby! All was going well. My mom was there to take care of Garrett. I was home from work and packed and ready to go.

Standing in the kitchen about ready to leave, my water broke. Oh, no... we still have a bit of a drive to get to our hospital! IT'S TIME TO GO!

As I get in the car, the contractions are getting REALLY strong. Painful even. This baby is coming!

I don't remember much of the drive and I know Casey broke many traffic laws (shhh! Don't tell!) All I could think of is that this baby is coming and NOW and how I didn't want to have him in a Toyota Corolla on the side of the road. Casey is on the phone with the hospital, they know we're coming. Our doctor was called. (He never made it.)

Upon arrival there was an attendant who was waiting for us with a wheelchair and said, "Give me your keys. I'll find you." The guy parked the car! Casey wheeled me in and I signed something (still have no idea what it was!) and we were taken up to maternity. I'm not sure we were there even 5 minutes before that boy was delivered! WELCOME DECLAN! (BTW~Declan was delivered before the guy made it back to our room with our keys!)

His whole life has been as crazy and eventful as the day he was born. He's a bundle of energy and has such a big heart. He's my little Babyzilla... my little monster... he's the one to keep us on our toes!

Happy Birthday, Declan Michael!

Last Chance

2011-02-18T10:32:00.000-08:00

It's time to take a little break. Actually, I have a LOT of work to get caught up on and a lot of new projects/ideas I've been wanting to work on for quite a while now. What this means is starting tomorrow, hoffee and a nuffin is taking a mini hiatus.

TODAY IS THE LAST DAY

If there's something you were thinking about getting, get it today and take 25% off your order when you enter coupon code VACA25. In addition, I'll REFUND your shipping costs if your order total is over $15!

Remember also that the sock monkey earrings and stitch markers were made in a limited quantity and it will be a few months until another Clay Day will be scheduled. These make great birthday and teacher gifts! There are even green ones that would be a cute addition to your St. Patrick's Day outfit.

Have a fun and crafty day!

Item of the Day!

2011-02-16T10:21:00.000-08:00

Today's Featured Item

Canadian Sock Monkey Earrings

FREE GREETING CARD WITH PURCHASE!

Today only, when you purchase this listing a sock monkey greeting card will be included with your order. YOUR PICK! Leave your choice in 'Notes to Seller' at checkout.

Item of the Day!

2011-02-13T10:44:00.000-08:00

Today's Featured Item

Canadian Sock Monkey Earrings

For today only, enjoy FREE WORLDWIDE SHIPPING on this cute pair of earrings. Have a fun and crafty day!

Item of the Day!

2011-02-12T07:25:00.000-08:00

Today's Featured Item

Snag Free Stitch Markers

For today only I'm offering FREE WORLDWIDE SHIPPING on this fun set of stitch markers. Happy Crafting!

Item of the Day!

2011-02-11T06:13:00.000-08:00

Today's Featured Item

Sock Monkey Knitting Stitch Markers

Today only, this item will be available for $15 (originally $18.) Happy knitting!

Item of the Day!

2011-02-10T10:49:00.000-08:00

Today's Featured Item

Pink Sock Monkey Earrings

Today only, this item will be available for $10 (originally $12.) Have a fun and creative day!

CLAY DAY!

2011-02-09T09:44:00.000-08:00

My scheduled Clay Day finally came, and was actually Clay WEEK. (The table still isn't cleaned up and put away yet...my goal for today!) After many hours and patience from my family, the sock monkey heads are finished.

Yes, I said "sock monkey heads". I have a lidded cup marked Monkey Heads, which grabs the attention of visitors every time.

From these monkey heads I make stitch markers, wine glass charms, and earrings. They're made from polymer clay and each one is unique because they're individually hand sculpted and molds are never used.

Since I pull the clay out about every 3 or 4 months or so, they're made in a limited number and once they're gone, they're gone!

"How To" Tuesday

2011-01-25T13:38:00.001-08:00

How to make a sock monkey hat.

Here's what I did, anyway!

Materials:

Paton's wool yarn
A set of size 7 DPNs
Stitch marker
Yarn needle
Coffee
A good show to watch

Let's get started!

Cast on 54 stitches using the long tail method.
Divide stitches between three needles, 18 per needle.
Join, making sure not to twist your stitches. After first stitch is knitted and cast on stitches are joined, place your marker to indicate beginning of round. (You'll really only need this for marking where to begin decreasing.)
Knit around until the piece measures approximately 2 1/2-3 inches.

Now we decrease!

K7, K2TOG around. (48 stitches)
K6, K2TOG around. (42 stitches)
K5, K2TOG around. (36 stitches)
K4, K2TOG around. (30 stitches)
K3, K2TOG around. (24 stitches)
K2, K2TOG around. (18 stitches)
K1, K2TOG around. (12 stitches)
K2TOG around. There will be 6 stitches remaining.

Cut yarn leaving a 6 inch tail. Thread end through a yarn needle and pull through remaining 6 stitches TWICE. Pull tight, thread through center of closure. Tie off inside and weave in all ends. Top with a pom pom or simply leave plain. Either way, your monkey will be happy to have a warm hat!

This hat fits my larger traditional red heel and gray sock monkeys. Later I'll explain the formula for making any size hat with any type of yarn using any size needles... check back for that soon!

"How To" Tuesday

2011-01-18T10:21:00.000-08:00

Be UNIQUE... Make your own Valentines!

We often spend time at the table doodling and coloring. A few days ago I drew a sock monkey couple that maybe only I thought was super cute. The boys... not so much. They were very much more interested in coloring pictures of Lego Indiana Jones and Lego Clutch Powers. Either way, I printed a larger image of my sock monkey couple and got to coloring it. When it was finished I thought it would make a really neat (and unique) Valentine's Day card.

Preparing for Garrett's Valentines gifts for his class, I bought packs of pencils at Target (found in the dollar bin) and used supplies I already had lying around the house. The colored image was scanned into the computer and printed to wallet sized prints. I cut them out and attached them to a pencil. Easy, right?

It really is! If you have scrap booking supplies (trimmers, decorative scissors, corner punches, etc.) you can get REALLY creative with the cutting. I have lots of that stuff, but opted for a simple, clean line along the edges. A basic hole punch (if you don't have this, they're only about $1.40 in the office supplies section of your local store) was used to add a hole to the corner. I threaded curling ribbon and tied it to a pencil. That's it!

Now all the kiddo needs to do is write a note or his name on the back and he's good to go! Although... he did tell me he doesn't want to use my pretty sock monkey cards. Instead he'll finish his Lego Indiana Jones coloring page and THAT'S the picture he'll use. It's just as well... I'd rather it be his artwork, anyway!

Garrett's finished card.

Feel free to print a sock monkey coloring page for your little artist found HERE. Have a fun and crafty day!

(Please comment... I'd love to hear from you!)

Sock Monkey Love

2011-01-17T07:16:00.000-08:00

I'm in the mood for... SHARING! Enjoy this coloring page, just in time for Valentine's Day craft sessions with the kids.

HAVE A FUN AND CRAFTY DAY!

You may need to save the image to your computer and print it to the size you would like for your little artist to color.

For personal use only. Print as many as you'd like, but remember: this image is NOT FOR COMMERCIAL USE. Don't sell this image or items made from this image or claim it as your own.

Gifts for the Music Lover in Your LIfe

2010-10-15T06:58:00.000-07:00

Have a favorite band? Love to write/journal/doodle? Check out my friend's Etsy shop and see if she's got a notebook made from recycled record album covers for you!

Visit rocknwriteon and see if my friend's got a notebook with your favorite band. If not, just ask! Christmas is around the corner and you just might find that PERFECT, unique, one-of-a-kind gift for a someone special in your life. You may find something for you. Treat yourself... it's okay! You probably deserve it.

Zucchini and Carrot Muffins

2010-09-17T14:03:00.000-07:00

I was very disappointed this morning when I got up to make these WONDERFUL muffins only to find out I had just enough flour to make buttermilk pancakes... shame on me!

We tried this recipe last week and just loved it. I hope you give it a try, too! We didn't have cranberries, we'll have to try that another day, but topped half of our batch with poppy seeds. You can't eat just one! We found ourselves sharing with neighbors and snacking on them throughout the day...

Enjoy!

An Apple For Teacher

2010-09-14T09:20:00.001-07:00

I've recently had the pleasure of purchasing a fun little pattern to make gifts for teachers at my son's school. The pattern for this Adorable Apple Cozy was easy to follow and worked up in less than an hour.

If you're looking for a quick crochet project pattern, I recommend this one!

Yummy Buttermilk Pancakes

2010-09-08T07:06:00.000-07:00

Believe it or not, you CAN make pancakes from scratch that are waaaaaay better than any box mix!

In our house, we use:

1 c. flour
1 tbsp. sugar
1 tbsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. salt

1 egg
1 tsp. vanilla
2 tbsp. oil
1 c. buttermilk

Mix dry ingredients in a medium sized bowl. Next, stir together wet ingredients in a separate bowl, then combine to dry mixture. Spoon into pan or onto griddle set to medium-high heat. (Use a dry, non-stick skillet if you have one!) Batter will be thick, so with the back of your spoon spread batter to about 4" in diameter. Once your pancakes start to bubble, flip 'em! They'll cook another minute or two...

When substituting regular milk for the buttermilk, use only 3/4 cup. We also make apple pancakes and add 1 tsp. cinnamon to the flour mixture and toss in about 3/4 chopped apple at the end.

Have fun experimenting with your own add-ins... ENJOY!

Miniature Sock Elephant

2010-04-08T14:49:00.000-07:00

Made from vintage miniature red heel socks...

PINK Sock Monkey!

2010-04-03T17:13:00.001-07:00

This is the second PINK sock monkey I've made and I'm proud to share her with you!

She was made from NEW pink Rockford Red Heel socks and is available in my Etsy shop.

All Children, Except One, Grow Up.

2010-03-28T04:32:00.000-07:00

"So come with me, where dreams are born, and time is never planned. Just think of happy things, and your heart will fly on wings, forever, in Never Never Land!" -Peter Pan

Peter Pan sock monkey was created as a very special custom order. This sock monkey will never be duplicated, making it a genuine one of a kind creation. The story of Peter Pan is very special and offered a lot of inspiration.

"You know that place between sleeping and awake, that place where you can still remember dreaming? That's where I'll always think of you." -J.M. Barrie

Thank You, Melanie!

2010-03-26T04:26:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had the pleasure of spending the day with my boys. We spent all morning and the early afternoon at the kitchen table working with polymer clay: working, rolling, shaping, stacking... CREATING!

I had read Melanies blog (one I enjoy and look forward to reading) and one this week was a tutorial on these little Chick Photo Holders she makes for her Etsy shop. SO STINKIN' CUTE!!! I thought that would be a perfect project to make with the boys.
Of course they liked it, sure it was cute, but Super Mario Bros. took priority in their minds and we ended up with Princess Peach and Yellow Toad for the boys to play with.

Garrett DID make a little chick. He didn't want his to be a photo holder and he wanted bead eyes (he LOVES poking beads with a toothpick and inserting them!) It was his, I couldn't tell him what to do with it... and he's proud of it (just as I am proud of HIM!)
I made a baker's dozen and if I can bring myself to parting with them, they will be given to family with the boys' pictures on them as spring gifts.

Melanie uses a permanent marker for the eyes but I created a blunt end to a toothpick and dipped that into black paint to "dot" the eyes on. Later I went back and used an opaque white scrap booking pen to add the highlight and a fine black pen to add the detail. My little chicks seemed a bit wobbly on their feet so I glued circles of cardboard (discarded cereal box with a penny as a template) to circles of green felt (using a quarter as a template) to make a little base for them to stand on. I love combining different textures!

Do check out her blog and print the tutorial. Bring out your polymer clay and have fun!!! Come to think of it, this would even be fun for little ones to make with play dough! What a fun rainy-day Easter project...

Green Eggs and Ham

2010-03-02T05:44:00.000-08:00

This is the last week of Reading Olympics at my son's school. The kids are invited to dress up based on a daily theme. Today's theme: Dr. Seuss! We love Dr. Seuss! We pulled out all of the books we had and chose "Green Eggs and Ham". (I think it was chosen simply because he liked the mouse!)
I thought it would be a neat and simple project to draw one of the illustrations on a t-shirt with Sharpies. It went really well! My husband and I (fortunately) have some drawing abilities and it was convenient for this project. We shared the responsibility of inhaling icky fumes to create this one-of-a-kind t-shirt for our kiddo to wear for participation.

Everything was going so well! The image looked good for mostly free-handing it with a permanent Sharpie marker... or so you would THINK a Sharpie was a PERMANENT marker. We let it sit over night and heat-set it in the morning before washing it. (I surely didn't want to send my kiddo to school reeking of Sharpie markers!) Here's what happened in the wash:

RUINED!
There's no saving this shirt... it will be a yard/play shirt now.

Time to start again! I've got a few hours and luckily (for this project) he's in the afternoon Kindergarten class.Success!

The shirt is finished and is as good as it's going to be for such a last-minute project for school today.
Time to air out the house and get ourselves ready to go...

Kiss Me!

2010-02-25T09:15:00.000-08:00

Do you celebrate St. Patrick's Day? I don't... but I do have fun with themes and couldn't resist all the fun things I found while shopping last week!

This miniature sock monkey, who measures only about 6 inches tall and was made from actual miniature socks, is available in my Etsy shop, hoffee and a nuffin.

Enjoy~

Whooo loves owls?

2010-02-18T06:20:00.000-08:00

Inspired by the owl made for Maxwell (An Owl, a Cowl, and a Little Felt Mustache) OWL PINCUSHIONS are now available in my Etsy shop, Sweetest Little Things.

Be.

2010-02-16T06:26:00.000-08:00

Be honest.
Be consistent.
Be the very best you can.
Be loving.
Be kind.
Be considerate.
Be compassionate.
Be passionate.

Be true to yourself.

An owl, a cowl, and a little felt mustache...

2010-01-27T18:30:00.000-08:00

Meet Maxwell. Maxwell has a habit in the early morning to pour himself a cup of coffee and make his way to the computer to see what's new on Etsy. One day he realized how much his love for owls, cowls, and little mustaches had grown. He really wanted to have them, but didn't exactly know why.

(Ah, the power of suggestion!)

Maxwell is available in my Etsy shop, 'hoffee and a nuffin.

Sock Monkey Care Instructions

2010-01-26T09:43:00.001-08:00

(Click on image for larger text)

Old or New?

2010-01-22T04:37:00.000-08:00

I just LOVE Nelson vintage sock monkeys! They have such a unique character that their smiles (or sometimes frowns) can't express when made from modern socks.
I made a sock monkey yesterday (brand new) from a pair of vintage socks. He's loosely stuffed and embellished with wool yarn so that when he took a trip through the washer and dryer, it altered his appearance a bit, making him look relaxed and much older.

People sometimes sell recovered sock monkeys on Ebay, but I often wonder about their condition. Where have they been living all these years? What were they stuffed with? Who loved them? What do they smell like? While still very charming, and completely unique on their own, they may have a hard time finding a place in someone's heart who has a fear of odd-smelling, filled with foam, tattered but oh-so-loved sock monkeys.

Check in on 'hoffee and a nuffin' as I occasionally list NEW Nelson vintage sock monkeys.

Teeny-tiny...

2010-01-18T09:44:00.000-08:00

Miniature sock monkeys have a very special place in my heart. Made from actual miniature socks and lots of love and tiny stitches, they don't take up very much space and are LOADED with character and charm!

If you're looking for a miniature sock monkey of your own, you may find one in my Etsy shop hoffee and a nuffin

hee pigeons...

2009-10-20T03:44:00.000-07:00

One day, while playing with an "I Spy" bag toy, my oldest boy says, "Look Mom, a HEE PIGEON!" (What?!) I went to him and asked what a "HEE PIGEON" was. He pointed to the clothespin inside the toy and said, "A HEE PIGEON."

So... now in our house we refer to all clothespins as HEE PIGEONS. I don't know that I understand why, other than that's what they are called by my children. I hang my pants to dry with HEE PIGEONS. We clip our chips and bags with HEE PIGEONS. I clip my receipts with HEE PIGEONS. We hang schoolwork on the refrigerator with HEE PIGEONS.

I've decided to share our fondness for HEE PIGEONS with you! My collection of HEE PIGEONS can be found in my Etsy shop: Sweetest Little Things.

(I do not recommend using decorated HEE PIGEONS for hanging wet laundry.)

This is Halloween!

2009-09-24T06:35:00.000-07:00

I wish I could say the weather is cooling and turning for fall... but it's not. It's still a bit warm here. Despite that, we're busy preparing for Halloween! Many miniatures have made their way into my Etsy shop and are available for purchase.

Made From Books Long Forgotten

2009-06-25T06:38:00.000-07:00

The book was maybe somebody's favorite that had been read over and over again, passed along from a friend, or endured a family move across the country. The book had been handled many times and eventually wore out. What is one to do with this old worn out tattered book? Often times it's left in a box in the attic to be forgotten. Sometimes it is donated or left out to sell in a yard sale. Just because it's old and tattered, missing a page or two, or even just falling to pieces does not mean that this cherished piece of literature is JUNK.

A couple of weeks ago I had the fortunate opportunity of meeting Michelle, a girl with a passion for giving new life to these treasures. She created Attic Journals. Handcrafted in Portland, Oregon and sold across the country Attic Journals are made from hardbound vintage books, children's books, and cookbooks.

Take a moment to check out Attic Journals and other upcycled products Michelle has to offer.

Celebrating Birthdays!

2009-04-19T10:29:00.000-07:00

What better way to say "Happy Birthday" than with these totally unique cards available in my Etsy Shop... and now in my new ArtFire Studio! Each card is an actual matte photograph displayed in a blank greeting card and costs only $3.00 (plus shipping.) If you love sock monkeys, or just original cards in themselves, I have many cards to choose from. Bulk discount rates are available upon request if purchasing for your display or collection. Contact me on these websites for more details.

wordless wednesday

2009-04-08T17:44:00.000-07:00

Spring is Here!

2009-03-31T05:45:00.000-07:00

Spring is here and it's about time for the Great Bunny Race! ...not sure exactly what it is, but sock monkeys love it and rave about it!

If you thought sock monkeys were mischevious you should see what this mini has been up to lately! She has recently discovered one of the yarn baskets. Her favorite color is pink so I expect I'll find here here for a while!

New cards have been recently added to my Etsy shop... come check them out! There is a good variety of themes and most are 'all occasion'. You could buy one for someone you know, or just for yourself to frame and have something fun to add to your collection!

Polymer Clay Sock Monkeys

2009-03-21T14:46:00.001-07:00

Feeling pretty creative and having a hundred-thousand ideas swimming around in my brain, I couldn't wait to set my alarm for 4am to get these started!

I LOVE sock monkeys and I LOVE snowmen (respectively) and thought this just might be the perfect combination of the two.

Keep an eye on my shop for new items added in the very near future. The Sock Monkey Friends collection is sure to grow rather quickly and my goal is to have a healthy supply of inventory in time for the 2009 holiday shopping season.

If you haven't yet, please visit my Etsy shop: http://www.hoffeeandanuffin.etsy.com/

Sheena

2009-03-12T15:24:00.001-07:00

Ramones Sheena is a Punk Rocker

Well the kids are all hopped

up and ready to go

They're ready to go now

They've got their surfboards

And they're going to the

discotheque a go go

But she just couldn't stay

She had to break away

Well New York City really has it all

Oh yeah, oh yeah

Sheena is a punk rocker

Sheena is a punk rocker now

She's a punk punk, a punk rocker

Punk punk, a punk rocker

Sock Monkeys on Vacation

2009-03-12T14:58:00.000-07:00

We have returned home from our vacation with some great MONKEY pictures to share with you... Buttons and the Number One Monkey traveled with us (and boy was the van packed!!!) The highlight of the trip for everyone was spending three days at Disneyland.

I really do enjoy Walt's spirit and feel his dream was a great one to be shared by everybody. Hopefully when my children grow up,

they'll have an understanding of what Disneyland meant to Walt Disney.

AVAILABLE NOW!
VISIT MY ETSY SHOP FOR PHOTO CARDS OF SOCK MONKEYS ON VACATION.

Mini Monkeys!

2009-02-12T05:16:00.000-08:00

Hard to come by, we managed to get our hands on some Mini Red Heel socks! (Thanks, Mom!) In memory of my grandma, our mini monkeys were made up this week. I'd like to think she would have been proud of the things we do... okay, I know she would have been! She always encouraged creativity and NEVER said "you can't". She is the primary source of inspiration for the things I do, and my memories of her are with me as I create every item I make.

Love~Love~Love

2009-02-11T08:26:00.000-08:00

I try to do something crafty with my children when it comes to every holiday. For Valentine's Day we HAD to run with the heart theme... and talk about who we would send Valentines to. To Grandma's of course!

Here's what we do with potatoes when they look like this. Mommy carves shapes to make stamps out of them! This time a little heart-shaped metal cookie cutter came in handy so all I had to do was cut around the shape and remove the excess potato. Acrylic paints are great to work with because they blend well, work on different types of surfaces, and are easy to clean up. By the end of our craft session the boys are usually covered in their "body art", then it's off to take a bubble bath! (These painted hearts will later be cut up and sewn onto cardstock for our Valentines notes.)

After clean up, mommy makes lunch. What kid doesn't love a cheesy quesadilla? I enjoy the opportunity to use my big, chunky heart-shaped cutter for these (and sometimes PB&J's!) The boys think it's a real treat, and they snack on the scraps of tortilla while waiting for lunch. Served up with sliced apples and milk this makes a healthy meal for the kids. Okay... mom likes it, too!

Help Save Handmade

2009-01-21T08:40:00.000-08:00

I'm not against the CPSIA. I don't think it was a BAD idea to have testing requirements for lead and phthalates in toys and children's items. I have two children of my own and do care about their safety. With the many toy recalls lately this was a solution to a very real problem we are dealing with today.

I don't remember hearing of any of these affected toys being manufactured in the United States. If I remember correctly, these toys were cheaply made and imported from other countries.

This new law affects me as a consumer AND as a seller of children's products. Many others like me, who chose to be home to raise their families rather than placing their children in daycare, who sell items on Etsy and similar websites, consignment shops, bazaars and boutiques, rely on the sales of their HANDMADE goods to pay for groceries, gas, lessons, etc. The COST of the testing to comply with the law is outrageous and unaffordable to the seller and buyer alike.

I would love to know that items in the marketplace intended for the use of children ages 12 and under are safe. I'm sure we have these items made in other countries to save money... but at what cost? Why can't we make these items in the United States? Is it too expensive? Wouldn't you pay just a little more to KNOW that what you are buying is made safely by fellow Americans, under inspection and in compliance with our own laws?

I am hoping for an AMENDMENT to this law. And as somebody who MAKES handmade items, couldn't it be possible for me to walk into a retail store that sells the supplies and materials I use and know that before those items ever made it to their shelves that they were tested and are in compliance with the appropriate testing requirements? Can we not test base products at the manufacturer's level and have certification upon request from the manufacturer? When I take these items home to re-assemble them into my finished product to sell at an affordable price, I would then know and could prove that what I am selling is a child-safe handmade item. As a result of that sale my family will be fed and I won't have to find a job that will just cover the cost of daycare so that I can earn an additional "workplace" income to buy groceries for my family.

Please consider joining in the fight to SAVE HANDMADE.

Meet Grace

2009-01-09T15:15:00.000-08:00

This is Grace. She is an example of custom orders I make.

The Valentine's monkey now has a friend to sit with! (She's no longer alone with the Red Heel boys...)

Overflowing with Creative Energy

2009-01-08T13:31:00.000-08:00

If only I could have all the hours in the day I need to do all the things I need to do. (I'm sure I'm speaking for all of us here!)

On a much needed outing this this week I found some GREAT socks which became the center of my latest focus: Valentine's Sock Monkeys!

Later to be: Fourth of July Sock Monkeys and Christmas Sock Monkeys. The socks are red, but have the look of "heather" found in red heel socks. Although they don't sport the white and red heels, they are my second favorite style of socks in the Sock Drawers. So far I have ONE monkey made up. Soon, she'll have others of her kind to talk to, but for now she's stuck sitting patiently with the Red Heel boys!

Having a two and four year old in the house (boys!) means only that anything interesting laying around the house is sure to come into their posession. This does not exclude sewing supplies! Last fall I found a great tin which I now keep smaller tins of needles, buttons, thread, and scissors in. The pincushion I had was of a larger sewing box and the boys were CONSTANTLY playing with the pins and removing them and losing them in the carpet! My quick solution was to roll up a nearby piece of felt, tied with a ribbon and yarn, then dropped into the tin. It worked... mostly. The more I thought about it, the more I wanted an actual, small pincushion for my pins and needles! I have a giant crock full of fabric scraps. I consulted the pile. The courderoy (from a pair of pants I had) always speaks out to me... it's always so comforting. And there was this pink wool sweater I recovered from a thrift store... I loved the color and texture of it so much it's been used for SEVERAL projects and it paired up nicely with the brown courderoy. This with a few cute buttons was the start of my latest obsession! I had to make more!

Obviously they had to be Sock Monkey related. I now have them listed in my Etsy shop for purchase.

These Crazy Holidays!

2008-12-30T14:45:00.001-08:00

Before the snow fell we were driving and realized how nice it was... we stopped in West Linn to take a picture of Buttons with a view of Mt. Hood behind him. This view overlooks the Willamette River and Oregon City. It was a very pretty day!

Santa's Little Helper now lives in Texas... hope it's not too warm for him! D's monkey: the Number 1 Monkey decided it WAS fun to make snow angels! This was just after our big snow fall... although we didn't get nearly what others got this year. It's still early, we've been known to have snow in March!

Holly was out supervising the activity. I think she decided all was well and sat to rest.

December has kept me busy with orders. Jimi is one of my favorite character monkeys next to Ozzy. Next to him is Edward from Twilight... Christmas presents for VERY special people! Next: SRV!

I'm alive once again on Etsy... check out the shop often for new items.

Snow Day

2008-12-19T11:19:00.001-08:00

OUR HOUSE, 7:30AM

Buttons and the boys made it outside today to play in the snow that we did get... it's not much, and we're expecting more tomorrow.

I'm sad to announce my husband was in a minor fender-bender as a result of the conditions this morning. Everybody is okay, but it's an example of how very dangerous it is out there. (He did make it to work!)

STUNT MONKEY

2008-12-14T07:20:00.000-08:00

Well, he's finally finished! The Stunt Monkey was requested as a Christmas present for one very special little girl.

Who's next??? (Jimi)

New Items in Shop!

2008-12-06T10:23:00.001-08:00

I've been putting it off (shame on me) but finally got around to listing a few new items in my shop.

Just in time for last minute holiday gift items (and great stocking stuffer ideas, too) give it a look and see what you might need. Don't forget, all CEM's and Daily Buzz members receive FREE SHIPPING (use promo code: CEM/DAILYBUZZ and wait for a revised invoice before buying.)

AND... there is more to be listed! Keep an eye out, but don't wait too long to order to ensure delivery before Christmas!

Buttons' New Glasses

2008-11-29T20:33:00.000-08:00

We went to the mall yesterday (...yes, we were part of shopping the day after Thanksgiving!) I was surprised to find it was busy as a typical busy weekend!

Rather than leaving Buttons in the car to be stolen, we took him shopping with us. He found a new pair of glasses! (He also received many compliments along the way...)

I Recommend...

2008-11-26T15:46:00.000-08:00

I SPY!

If you have small children or know somebody who does, you've got to consider buying this toy for them!!!

Shop with ae baby on Etsy... she's a SUPER nice seller and I received my order very quickly. That being said, DON'T WAIT too much longer to order for Christmas... the holiday is sneaking up on us and you'll want to allow enough time for your order to arrive in the mail!

Check it out!!!

(I can't wait until Christmas morning to see the look on G's face when he opens this gift, it's the sort of thing he'll be very excited about!)

Let This be a Lesson!

2008-11-21T05:06:00.000-08:00

BACK UP YOUR STUFF!

Something happened with our power, and while we were re-starting the computer and chose PC Recovery, it WIPED OUT everything we had!

No more Etsy files... no more Etsy photos... all of my documents and designs GONE. The most horrible part is losing pictures of the kids. Those can't be recovered from the internet or re-created.

We now have to re-install ALL of the software we had. Not such a big deal. I have to re-create all of the work I had for Etsy (I don't care, I did it before now this time I'll just do it BETTER!) The Kid Pics... it kills me a little!

So... BACK UP YOUR STUFF! Have a special little place for these so they don't get lost. These are memories you have with your family that you can't share with others unless you have them to share.

(G and D watching Spongebob Squarepants!)

On a positive note, I hope everyone has a GREAT WEEKEND! (It's raining here...)

It's Over

2008-11-17T06:38:00.000-08:00

With my coffee and a chocolate chip banana muffin at my side...

The bazaar is over! At the same time I feel both a sense of relief and sadness. It was fun to plan and prepare, meet people, visit, SELL, make friends, share information... but it's over. And I'm WIPED OUT!

There were many vendors there with lots of great items to buy! I also met a few other Etsy sellers, someone who lives in the same town as me, and someone who's husband works for my former company.

The monkeys were well recieved by young and old alike. It was a little surprising when the little girls got excited about SOCK MONKEYS! But... there are three recent movies I can think of that they've been shown in. They are: Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium; Kit Kittredge an American Girl; and Horton Hears a Who (there is a little Who, who goes to bed with her 'Who' version of a sock monkey toy.) Our older visitors remember having their sock monkeys and mention that they're "still in a box somewhere..." (Get them out... set them free!)

So, for now, what is left over is back in my Etsy shop.

Happy Holidays!

ARE YOU LOCAL?

2008-11-13T10:40:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder to everybody, I'll be attending a bazaar this weekend! Come see me at:

St. Patrick's Catholic Church

HOLIDAY BAZAAR

498 NE 9th Ave

Canby, OR 97013

Saturday, November 15th 9am-5pm

Sunday, November 16th 9am-5pm

Mention reading this blog and receive 20% OFF your entire purchase! Just say, "I'm local and I read your blog!"

*Note: also during this time my Etsy shop will be closed. I will re-open on Monday, November 17th

(Happy Birthday Josh and Jeromy!!!)

New and Improved!

2008-11-07T12:18:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I wrote about Ducks and Beavers Snowman Ornaments. I was bothered with the way they turned out... I'm a bit of a perfectionist and they didn't seem quite right to me!

I went back at it, made them strictly out of polymer clay and transformed the old snowmen into snow-girls! I had a couple of ECRU-colored gloves in a box and transformed the fingers into hats, and had scraps of fabric which became their scarves.

I don't necessarily think all WINTER things should be RED and GREEN... I like to make mine a little non-traditional. This is what I'm offering this year!

Ducks and Beavers

2008-11-06T04:36:00.000-08:00

Along with my Red Hat Society Ladies of Snow ornaments, I made some Ducks and Beavers fans snowman ornaments... At first I was happy with the way they turned out, but as with most things, the more you look at it the more you realize it could use some improving.

Lucky for me I only made five.

They're fine, but they're not the best! My goal today: IMPROVEMENT! I LOVE my new snowman (and lady) ornaments! I'd like to think they're my favorite original idea so far...

Back to work...

Holiday Bazaar

2008-11-04T07:24:00.001-08:00

So much work... so little time! In less than two weeks I'll be attending the St. Patrick's Holiday Bazaar in Canby, OR. Anybody who lives close is welcome to visit me:

St. Patrick's Catholic Church

498 NW 9th Ave

Canby, OR 97013
Saturday, November 15th 9am-5pm

Sunday, November 16th 9am-2pm

I will be bringing with me some SOCK MONKEYS; hand sculpted RED HAT SOCIETY ORNAMENTS; hand sculpted DUCKS and BEAVERS SNOWMAN ORNAMENTS; polymer clay FOOD JEWELRY (EARRINGS, NECKLACES, PINS); BUTTONS; GREETING CARDS....... Pretty much everything in my Etsy shop! Check it out for a "preview" www.hoffeeandanuffin.etsy.com

I'm looking forward to this event and hope to see you there!

Also... don't forget to check out my last post featuring other Cafemom Etsy Mom's shops! There are LOTS of great gift ideas for every member of your family!

A HANDMADE HALLOWEEN: The Evolution of Wall-e

2008-10-31T08:29:00.000-07:00

At first G wanted to be a spider. Not just any spider... it had to be GREEN. Well, we didn't have anything around the house to make him a GREEN spider, with eight legs and only two eyes. He didn't want to compromise and be a black and green camo spider (which would have been just as cute in my opinion.) We went online for ideas and of course he then wanted to be Wall-e! Not too bad... we had boxes and paint and LOTS of imagination! That did it!

I surely wasn't going to let him off with not helping to make his costume. G needed to understand that these things don't come easy, and the end result is more rewarding when you have a hand in the project yourself. I'd say that both he and D enjoyed marking spots for holes, testing their positions, and finally PAINTING the box. Of course, as you can imagine with a two and four-year-old, paint didn't exactly stay where it was supposed to! While the paint is drying, we TAKE A BATH!

Daddy came home after work with magic cans of paint and while everybody slept, finished the Wall-e box! Mom still has to paint the eyes and somehow attach them to the hood of a sweatshirt.

The end result: We have one very happy four-year-old on our hands... he was even kind enough to share his costume with his brother! Tonight we go trick-or-treating!