hello.lollipop.

congrats to....

2010-10-31T16:44:00.000-05:00

Sarah B. from Yes, Teacher Crafts!!

You are the winner of my latest giveaway!

(I'll be contacting you shortly)

Thanks to those who entered.

Thanks to those who read and followed.

I'll still be coming on every once in a while to comment on the lovely blogs that have inspired me.

Much love to you all!

♥

giveaway and a message

2010-10-23T15:51:00.004-05:00

Hello friends!

I decided to go ahead and have my giveaway before I hit the hundred mark. This giveaway is for followers only (overseas followers too!). All you have to do is leave me a comment with a way to contact you and let me know that you follow. The giveaway will end on Saturday October 30th at midnight. I will randomly pick the winner and announce it on Sunday. The winner will receive a daily devotions book, cute novelty stickers, a travel notebook, box of blank note cards, and a lovely smelling soap bar. Thanks to all who enter!

I also have an announcement that I wanted to make. I will no longer be posting on my blog, other than the occasional post if I make new pouches for my shop. I decided that keeping up with posting is just too time consuming and taking my attention away from more fulfilling things, like serving others and spending time with God in prayer and reading the Bible. God deserves all the glory for any talent He's blessed me with or anything I've made.

But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ and be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith. Phillippians 3:7-9

altered skirt

2010-10-13T01:04:00.001-05:00

Some clothes just can't help it...they're awkward, nerdy, and sometimes just too big.

This skirt was given to me by my sister and I originally intended on just using the fabric for pouches but since I'm desperate for some new skirts... I kept it and made it a whole lot better.

The skirt was actually extremely well made, I couldn't help but admire the craftsmanship before I took it apart.

But as you can see from the before pictures, this skirt wasn't going to be worn anywhere no matter how well it was made.

So I took apart the seams and cut off the excess fabric from the top.

Having a long zipper in the middle front of a skirt just doesn't look flattering on me. So I carefully removed the zipper and opened the seam in the middle back where I'd move it to.

pinned the zipper in place and the spot for two new darts

I also realized that having a seam go straight down the middle front would be kind of boring. So I decided to have the seam off a little more on one side and go down in a slight angle.

and like that the skirt was no longer just a pile of fabric!

So now I have one less skirt to buy!

one hundred

2010-10-12T10:34:00.001-05:00

I'm eagerly waiting to hit 100 followers and then I'm going to have a really awesome giveaway...think Anthropologie items and a bunch of other really great goodies. You want that giveaway to come faster? Show me some love and tell your friends about my blog! Please and thank you.

♥

nothing to wear

2010-10-11T20:46:00.001-05:00

I came to the very sad realization Sunday night that I really need to go shopping. When I went to my closet to find a nice skirt or dress to wear to church, there was not a single thing I was happy with. Most of my dressy clothes were passed down from my sisters or bought by me about 5 years ago. And unfortunately, my 17 year old clothes are not looking so cool on my 22 year old self. I usually run to a simple black skirt every time this happens and Sunday night was no different. I have a decent amount of new tops, it's just the skirt and dresses that are really needing the help. So I did some searching on a couple of my favorite sites and found some beautiful choices. I think I'll be dropping some serious money some time soon!

sequins of events asymmetrical dress from shopruche

lead me back to you floral skirt from shopruche

sound of music gray skirt from shopruche

layers of chocolate skirt from shopruche

tiers of the sunskirt from shopruche

forever intertwined heather gray skirt by Ark & Co. from shopruche

glowing leaf skirt from anthropologie

harbingers of fall dress from anthropologie

vapor rise dress from anthropologie

ascending aspirations skirt from modcloth

grecian gray dress from modcloth

rose menagerie dress from modcloth

the princess and the peach dress from modcloth

looking dovely dress from modcloth

neon forest dress from modcloth

mesh-aboom dress from modcloth

one and only dress from modcloth

I'm hoping not to have anymore frustrated with my wardrobe moments once I buy some new pieces. Hurray for pretty and stylish clothes! :)

[just wanted to reinforce that these photographs are from the corresponding websites]

illustrator

2010-10-10T14:31:00.000-05:00

I have a bunch of Adobe programs that have been sitting very patiently for two years now on my laptop for me to mess around with. Well last night (because that seems to be when the most creativity comes out) I finally opened Illustrator just to see what it's all about. Made this little design, nothing great, but hopefully I'll get better with practice.

walnut, watercolor, and embroidery

2010-10-09T12:52:00.010-05:00

I recently went to a craft store and immediately searched for my favorite aisle, the one stocked with clearance items. I found a bunch of great stuff: 4 trays for hot dogs (my guy has a thing for Vienna Beef and making the perfect hot dog), pack of 42 pretty scrapbooking sheets, 10 small watercolor paper cards, and a couple of other things. I love deals, and I spent just $11 on all of that. Stocking up on craft things makes me eager to actually put them to use. So last night I pulled out my watercolors and just played around for a little bit, making cute little paintings. I like how they turned out, and they're perfect for leaving small notes to my loves.

This walnut caught my eye while I was taking photographs. I truly never knew that a walnut has a heart inside. Love it!

This painting was practice from a watercolors technique book I have.

And lastly, the autumn embroidery I made for my room. I plan to have all four seasons finished soon, spring is already done.

I thank God that there are so many things we can make with our hands. The weather is gorgeous and life is good. I couldn't ask God for more.

dreamy

2010-10-07T16:54:00.004-05:00

Took these on a recent trip to the Botanic Garden.

Makes me just want to lie down in a field

somewhere and float off to dreamland.

mr. rooster

2010-10-04T19:32:00.004-05:00

I've been seeing this really neat commercial on TV lately, I'm not even sure what it's for but it has a bunch of things being done in slow motion including a rooster crowing. Any way, it just looks so cool in the commercial and it reminded me of this one really proud rooster we used to have. I don't know about you but I just think he looks so sure of himself that it puts a smile on my face.

photo shoot

2010-10-02T15:25:00.012-05:00

I said that I would post something interesting before the week ended. I'd say this totally qualifies. Recently I did a photo shoot for a friend of my boss. These are her three very photogenic and beautiful children. They are full of energy and taking pictures of them was such a fun experience! Enjoy!

goal

2010-09-29T00:15:00.003-05:00

goal: post something interesting by

the end of this week

fact: the shutter speed on this photo was 30 seconds.

Am I good at staying still or what?!

row your boat

2010-09-19T19:16:00.002-05:00

my talented boy put together this dandy

little boat in a bottle.

I heart dogs

2010-09-13T18:22:00.005-05:00

(click the picture above to enlarge)

If you're a animal lover, go here to find an event near you!

And because I like to show Juno off whenever

I get the chance, here is my handsome pup.

handmade hellos

2010-09-11T11:28:00.012-05:00

I really enjoy receiving handwritten cards and notes. As cheesy as it may sound, there's something comforting about a person's handwriting as oppose to a computer's robotic font. Here are some handmade hello cards. There's no need for a special occasion to send one, and I think that's the best part. Just add your own special message and it could brighten some one's day.

hello postcard by lolabot

flying geese hello folded note cards
by inkspotworkshop

hello gift tags by coraannedesigns

hello vintage typewriter
by thecraftpantry

hello note cards in orange

by thirdstreetpaperco

hello sunshine greeting card

by littlebeehive

hello there letterpress card

by paperdragonfly

hello flat notes in gray and ochre

by michellebrusegaard

hello bird cut out greeting card

by paperbazaar

hello cupcake note cards

by blackberrygraphics

happy orange kawaii card
by askingfortrouble

owl note cards by munaluna

Photoswap 2010

2010-09-05T13:25:00.007-05:00

This year I participated in Photoswap 2010, put together by Rhianne from for the easily distracted. My talented partner was Liana from CAMERA CRACK who sent me an awesome role that I got to develop. You can view the flicker where I posted them here and the Photoswap group pool here. There were a lot of people who got involved and some of the pictures really blew me away. And Liana posted the roll that I took over here. I loved that we both got to get a little taste of each other's cities. Enjoy!

giveaway winner

2010-09-01T23:29:00.003-05:00

Hello everyone!

Sorry I didn't post earlier today but I'm finally home and able to announce the giveaway winner. I want to thank everyone who entered and all my new followers. I love spoiling you guys. There will be another giveaway soon so even if you're not the winner, you'll get another chance.

The winner is Michelle C. She was the random number 2 that was picked! Congratulations! Because I really felt the love this time, I am going to give Michelle the turquoise pouch and let her customize her own pouch that I will also make for her. There will be another giveaway before the end of September! Thanks again you guys!!! ♥

amanda made new pouches

2010-08-28T17:44:00.007-05:00

I speak in third person now for my titles, because I'm just cool like that. So friends, I just had a burst of pouches made and it feels so so so good. They're all pretty perfect for autumn, in my opinion. So yeah, here are some of the pictures. My etsy shop link is down and to the right ---> if you want to really check them out.

And my giveaway is still going on down below so if you have yet to enter and want to get something you didn't pay for, then quit procrastinating and go and enter. It ends on August 31st.

turquoise & lace pouch giveaway

2010-08-23T22:57:00.008-05:00

It's time for another giveaway. I'd say this one is long overdue but hey, better later than never! I'm clearing out some pouches from my shop, and I can't think of a better thing to do with them than treat my lovely blog readers to a chance to win one!

So the rules are short and simple:

The giveaway is running from 8/23-8/31
Absolutely anyone can enter
To enter leave me a comment with a way to contact you

The end.

Thanks.

[incase you're picky and you want to know what you're trying to win, here's the description that was on etsy....

You are looking at a pretty turquoise lace pouch made with a linen outer fabric, cotton lining, and two rows of beautiful vintage lace. One side is decorated with lace and the other side is the plain linen.

The inner lining has a beautiful flower stitched design. It measures 6 1/2 by 8 3/4 inches. It closes on top with two hook and eye closures. ]

wish I was here

2010-08-22T18:50:00.004-05:00

from my trip to Gills Rock, WI two weeks ago.

latest pottery

2010-08-16T19:47:00.016-05:00

I feel semi accomplished. I glazed these pieces about a week ago and finally picked them up today! I actually made these in May and just now completed them, yeah...wow.

I worked my tail off for this cake stand.

In case you're wondering, the following piece was supposed to look lopsided.

Bugs seem to have a thing for my work. First the fly, now this. I didn't put him there, I think he thought he was camouflaging somehow.

And this piece was made for my mom's outdoor plants. I wanted it to look rustic and earthy.

Seeing the results of my work makes me a little sad that I won't be doing ceramics in the fall. I'll be taking my first digital photography class, but I have a feeling I'll make some more pottery eventually. Once you start a craft, it's hard to stop.

new things

2010-08-14T17:12:00.024-05:00

Haven't posted for a while but now I have a reason to,

I have some new things.

New things I bought, new things I made.

And honestly, who doesn't love a new thing?

This is my little Audrey phone charm from Evangelione. I have been eyeing all of her lovely creations for quite some time now. And as soon as I saw that she's making little charms, I threw one in my cart and never looked back. The packaging was super cute and she didn't cost as much as the larger dolls which is great for my wallet.

Now I've also been wanting something from cabin+cub and I realized I was putting it off for way too long. So I found some cute things I really liked and bought those too. It helped that the birthday card was on sale and the bookplates are so darn adorable. Hooray!

Finally, here's what I've been up to:

LETTERPRESS.
For the second class, we picked a word to print and played around with colors.

I picked Illinois, the other word on each sheet belonged to a partner. Just ignore the fly that completely intruded on my picture...

For the third class we had to set up a couple of lines to print. My words were chosen from Gregory Alan Isakov's "that moon song".

And for my fourth class, we carved an image into linoleum and printed with it.

Clearly the Illinois thing is becoming a pattern. So far this was my favorite project. It was sort of like stamp making and playing with the colors was pretty fun.

Hope you all have been happy making new things too!

how does your garden grow

2010-08-02T11:54:00.013-05:00

I love summer time. I love the vegetables and fruits that come from my mother's garden. I love the smell of a tomato plant, the chaotic flowering of cucumber vines, but most of all I love eating what we grow. There is really nothing as sweet as cultivating your own food and then savoring each delicious bite. Here is how our garden grows:

Whenever I take Juno out for a run in the backyard, I can't help but pluck off some cherry tomatoes, wipe them on my shirt, and pop them in my mouth. So good! And those flowers are so intensely colored, they add so much life to our yard. I'm really enjoying this summer. :)

oh boy, embroidery

2010-07-31T11:35:00.018-05:00

I really wish I was better at embroidery

but these pretty things sure inspire

me to work on it!

quotation

satin

oh, butterflies

happy molecule

pear

deer+squirrel

wishbone stitches

yikes, this is all too pretty to not

go and buy something!

one of those weeks

2010-07-30T21:28:00.003-05:00

Ever had those days or weeks?

I haven't been productive enough

and I have a mean cold that won't back off.

This painting is from here and I love it.

layer cake shop

2010-07-24T11:19:00.024-05:00

If you haven't heard of Layer Cake Shop

you are missing out!

This online shop has the best

baking items you could hope to find.

From baking cups to twine,

it's all here.

These are a couple of my favorites:

pink sweet flower baking cups

butterfly toppers

dutch apple bakery labels

yellow stripe twist ties

gray bakers twine

mint green icing roses

royal icing fruits

neon polka dot sprinkles

Not only do they have cute baking supplies,

but they are also well priced.

It's time to do some shopping!

erban fiber

2010-07-22T13:25:00.007-05:00

Not too long ago my blog buddy, erban,

opened another etsy shop.

Her first shop is her awesome photography.

Her newest shop is called erban fiber

and it holds a collection of

cool remixed friendship bracelets + more.

I couldn't keep myself from buying something

once the shop opened.

I'm not one to wear much jewelry but these

were fun, cute, and colorful.

How could I resist!

If you have not already visited

erban fiber, do so!

I'm sure you'll find something you love.

i heart letterpress

2010-07-18T00:16:00.044-05:00

So I had my first letterpress class this past Wednesday.

It was very fun and interesting,

finally getting to see how letterpress works.

My teacher set up some words for us

and let us each get a turn at

running a sheet through the press.

Nothing great, but here's mine:

And now I want to share some of

my all time favorite letterpress artists,

from etsy of course,

and some of my favorite picks from their shops.

Enjoy!

I've been meaning to buy this for a long time.

by YeeHaw

I love the sense of humor in this.
by sycamorestreetpress

I actually bought this one and gave it to my
cousin for her wedding. . .by misspicklespress

who doesn't love tandem bikes?
by letterpress

this was truly my best etsy purchase EVER.
this large assortment of cards saved me
when I didn't have time to card shop.
totally recommend it!
by IndustriousLily

dutchdoor makes some of the most lovely
letterpress I've ever seen.
I got a mother's day card for my mom from them
last year and she loved it.

and this is just so darn cute!
by DingbatPress

simple and sweet.
by breadandbuttershop

cool and creative letterpress house!
by 1canoe2

So there you have it!
Just a small selection of the letterpress I love.
Share your favorites, I always want more!

new banner

2010-07-11T13:31:00.003-05:00

I realized that I haven't really changed anything

on my blog since I first made it.

So I decided to make a new banner today.

I'm planning to work a little more

on my blog's layout in the coming weeks

(if I can find time to be productive)

and also spruce up my etsy shop a bit.

Let me know what you think!

kayaking

2010-07-10T12:46:00.013-05:00

I went on a very fun kayaking trip

down the Chicago River for Glenn's birthday.

It was hard work but the view was gorgeous!

I'm sure I'll share more photos later but these are

just a couple.

holiday excitement

2010-07-02T12:09:00.006-05:00

(thanks erban for the photoshop freebie!)

I'm sure I'm not the only one excited for

this upcoming Fourth of July,

but I'm just really looking forward to it

this year!

I never used to care too much for it,

but the fun of traditions has made it addicting.

I think for the past four years I've watched

the fire works at my old high school

and also at this great beach

on Lake Michigan that Glenn and I have

some sweet first memories at.

In case I don't get around to posting

on July 4th I wish you all a wonderful,

tradition-filled, and safe holiday!

oh deer

2010-06-28T11:06:00.002-05:00

why did the goose cross the road?

2010-06-13T10:15:00.005-05:00

So I could take a photo of it.

watercolor butterflies craft

2010-06-10T18:44:00.010-05:00

Sort of spinning off of the other days post,
I wanted to share a fun and cute summer craft.

Perfect for kids and kids at heart.

These are butterflies made out of

coffee filters and painted

with watercolors.

This is a craft that you can find

instructions for online

but I figured I would give them anyway,

along with some pretty pictures.

So you will need just the standard sized

coffee filter...white or light brown,

watercolor paint, a brush, water,

colorful pipe cleaners,

and clear fishing line if you

want to hang them up.

First you flatten out the coffee filter.

It's smart to do the painting over newspaper

or even double up the coffee filter so

some of the color leaks over.

Paint any lovely, colorful design

your heart desires.

Set it aside when you are done

for about 5-10 min of drying time.

If you doubled up the coffee filter,

you will probably have to fill

in the white spots on the one that was

underneath.

Once it is dry, make 1/2 inch

accordion folds and pinch it in the center

and carefully spread out the wings.

Or just gently and delicately pinch the

coffee filter in half...

but in such a way that it puckers

nicely... and then spread out the wings.

Cut 3-5 inches of pipe cleaner,

twist around the pinched part,

and make two antennas...like a real

butterfly.

Now I made this craft with the kids

I nanny, and we made around 25 of these.

I tied clear fishing line around the butterflies

and hung them from the playroom ceiling.

It truly looked magical.

With natural light coming in,

they really looked like they were floating there.

And when the breeze came through the window,

they flew.

If you want to do the fishing line,

I recommend first figuring out how long

the line should be so you don't

bump into the hanging butterflies.

Tie the string around the body of the

butterfly in such a way that they

will not be hanging straight up and down,

but rather almost parallel to the ground

or slightly angled...

preferably with the string hanging out

of the "back" of the butterfly.

Use clear scotch tape to hold the string

on the ceiling, but be careful not to

over smooth the tape in...

so you won't have smudgy fingerprints

on your ceiling or have a hard time

taking the tape off.

Also, spread them out evenly but not too

uniformly or too close...

make it look natural.

(be careful on that chair or step stool!)

When you're all done, lay with your back

on the ground with the window open

and watch them fly.

butterfly

2010-06-08T17:30:00.004-05:00

I have somewhat of a thing for butterflies.

I'm sure everyone does,

but I just think they are amazing.

So I was pretty excited when this

pretty little fellow decided

to flutter right in front of my camera

for at least three decent shots.

just lovely...

happy birthday hello.lollipop!

2010-05-31T10:23:00.011-05:00

[image from butaho's flickr]

It has been one year since I first began my blog.

I made it to 58 posts and 55 followers.

Not bad, that almost makes 1 follower per post.

My first post was just an introduction

of myself but I also wrote things

I wanted to learn or do more of.

I looked back and saw that trying

more through the viewfinder photography

was on the list.

Check. I've done plenty of those.

And I wrote that I want to learn

how to do letterpress.

Well, I've signed up for a letterpress

class this summer at an art school.

Yay! I'll check that in a couple of months.

And I'll be able to show you guys what I make.

Now I just have to sign up for some piano lessons.

Oh and I want to take a calligraphy class

so I can improve.

So I have another lovely year to look

forward to with my sweet followers

and occasional visitors.

Thanks for sticking with me.

I'll treat you all to another giveaway this June

as my present to my blog.

Also happy memorial day!

I sense that it will be a good one.

I hear thunder rumbling in the distance

and I LOVE thunderstorms.

And I just found out I won a giveaway

from Sweet Tidings!

Hurray for me :)

P.S. The sky just broke.

Good, the garden needed some rain.

I just snuck in some poppy flower seeds

between my mom's flowers

and am hoping they surprise me

by actually coming up.

Poppies, peonies, and ranunculus are my favorite.

my gardening mother

2010-05-30T13:56:00.008-05:00

Every summer I get to enjoy

the fruit of my mother's labor.

She has made our backyard

a lovely and inspiring place.

When the weather warms up enough

she spends many hours outside

working in the garden.

She plants flowers, vegetables, fruit.

She arranges the random,

eclectic things my dad brings home.

A chipped deer statue,

piles of old bricks, a bird bath.

Our yard has become a haven.

And it all looks so effortless and casual.

I hope someday that I'll have

a home and yard of my own,

and that it will look

and feel as peaceful and beautiful

as the one my mom and dad made for us.

Thank God

2010-05-27T18:26:00.003-05:00

I'm just so grateful to God

that it is so gorgeous outside.

Spring is practically gone here

and summer is coming full speed.

But as humid as it is,

I can't deny that I'm loving it all.

What a blessing.

Here are some beautiful flowers

from my backyard

shot through the viewfinder.

getting better & pretty things

2010-05-17T14:50:00.008-05:00

My foot has been healing really well.

I woke up this morning with no pain

and was able to walk with the boot

on right away without any trouble.

So I'm feeling good about getting

back to my regular schedule tomorrow.

But today I'm just getting one good

last day of rest and enjoying it, too.

Took some photos of things in my room,

the new pieces I made in ceramics,

and the peonies that are waiting to

bloom outside of my window.

Made this when spring first arrived.

Formed the bird out of porcelain

and glazed it in ceramics class.

Little plaque for Juno's one year with me.

A piece I made in ceramics.
I'm happy with the glaze results.

Another piece. I like the carvings,

just wish the glaze would've run further down.

Just a porcelain stone I stamped into.

The newest mug I've made.

Happy with it.

The peonies.

The ant.

And my smiling companion.

bed rest

2010-05-15T00:47:00.006-05:00

It's around one in the morning my time

and I still am not tired.

I got foot surgery today for my bunions

and all the sleep I've gotten during

the day is keeping me up.

So I'd figure I'd post.

Fortunately the surgery went well

and I feel like the healing won't

take too long.

For now I'm stuck in bed with a cold-water

compressor around my leg and my faithful

puppy Juno by my side.

the winner is...

2010-05-12T14:31:00.005-05:00

Rebecca from Little Paper Boutique!

Congratulations!

Thanks so much to everyone else

who took the time to enter

and also to those awesome people

who now follow my blog.

It's when I get such a good

response to giveaways that I

really look forward to the next one.

Sorry to those who didn't win

but I promise, there will be more!

Again, thanks so much!

21 people entering makes me feel

really good about what I'm doing.

pink polka dot pouch GIVEAWAY

2010-05-04T13:03:00.013-05:00

GIVEAWAY HAS ENDED,

WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED TOMORROW.

THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO ENTERED!! ♥

It's time for another giveaway!

This time it's my pink polka dot zipper pouch

that one lucky person will win!

The rules are simple:

- you can get one entry by leaving me a comment

letting me know you want to enter.

also, please leave me a way to contact you

if you win!

- the giveaway is running from today until

next tuesday, may 11th at 2 p.m.

- if you like my blog and want to follow,

I'd love that but it will not count as another entry

(I figure that "forcing" people to follow

for another chance to win doesn't mean

you'll actually want to follow me)

- I will use a random number generator to pick the

winner and will post the winner up on

wednesday, may 12th.

- this giveaway is open to everyone,

that includes my friends, family, and stalkers

- and to you men out there, feel free to enter for

the ladies in your life

Now enter away my friends!

and incase you want to know, it measures 5x7.5 inches.

but who really cares, it's free.

a whiff of spring

2010-04-30T02:15:00.007-05:00

under the weather

2010-04-21T21:15:00.017-05:00

I usually don't post too much about

non crafty things

but I've been sick with some kind of bug

for two days now

and I thought it would be nice to

look back on my healthier, non-sick days.

I don't know about you,

but when my health's not doing so hot

I can't help but be more grateful

when I'm feeling good.

These photos were taken just this past Saturday

when the weather was nice and perfect

for a scooter ride to Lake Michigan.

But scooter rides in 70 degrees

feel more like 40 degrees,

hence the gloves...jacket...and head scarf.

Still, it was very fun. The water looked

so fresh and clear and the trees

were especially bright green now

that spring really hit us.

Love it.

be productive

2010-04-19T13:13:00.003-05:00

When I have a long list of things to do,

I write myself an extra note of

encouragement that says:

BE PRODUCTIVE.

Sometime I ignore the note,

or sometimes I just get distracted

by something called the internet.

I've gotten some stuff accomplished since

I woke up at 8:30 this morning.

But I knew it wouldn't feel worth it

if I wouldn't finally post on my blog.

So here's what I owed you guys

since my last post from some

many days ago.

.i am lazy.

2010-04-07T21:45:00.004-05:00

I was planning to post this photo on Easter

but like the blog title says...

I sort of excuse it as I'm busy

but that's not always true.

If you can't tell

the leaves look like bunny ears

poking out of the ground.

so cute.

I plan to post a couple more ttv photos

hopefully this upcoming weekend.

Praying for some good weather

and energy to be productive &

stop blog surfing.

Which is what I was doing for the past

three hours before I posted this.

budding inspiration

2010-04-03T17:21:00.008-05:00

Here are some of the other

TTV's I said I'd put up.

I'm very happy with them.

Such a breath of fresh air

and a lovely reminder that spring

is here.

Enjoy!

and more to come

2010-04-02T14:59:00.004-05:00

I had no work today and so this morning

I played around with my camera again,

doing more "through the viewfinder".

And since it was actually light out,

I got some nice results.

Here are just two, I will post

more up tomorrow...

I just have to straighten and crop them.

And doing that to over 50 photos

takes awhile.

Might I just add that today is

so so so

gorgeous where I live.

78 degrees and windy.

Love it :)

here is a great giveaway

that you all should check out!!

Winner gets a cute embroidered owl!

Slipcover Your Life’s Stitchery Giveaway!

through the viewfinder

2010-03-30T21:22:00.006-05:00

I've been wanting to play around with some

ttv

(through the viewfinder)

for awhile now.

It's when you take a photo

with a digital camera

THROUGH the viewfinder of another camera.

I took these shots through my Yashica.

It's really fun to do

and the results can be really beautiful.

In my case it was getting a little dark out

and I had to do some lens correction on

photoshop because I wasn't careful

and some of my shots weren't centered.

Overall I like them and I'm excited

to do more of these when it's brighter out.

I actually posted in my first post

that ttv's were something I

wanted to do more of.

yay.

check that off.

-.-

monday inspiration board

2010-03-28T17:10:00.008-05:00

I'm sure all of us,

at one time or another,

have needed some monday inspiration.

A little something to encourage us

for our coming week.

Something pretty, shiny, and whimsical.

These are some of the things that inspire me.

From my room, to yours.

Enjoy.

announcing the giveaway winner...

2010-03-27T18:49:00.009-05:00

First off I want to truly thank everyone

who entered, hearted my shop or an item,

or chose to follow my blog.

I can't tell you how good it feels

to have that kind of support

from people who may not even know me.

Really.

Also, I was just so thrilled about this giveaway.

I was surprised at the response

but I really want to give back

to you guys.

To you people who take the time to

check out a new site and

like winning free things. :)

I'm excited to be giving something back

to someone who took a peek on hello.lollipop.

And I look forward to more giveaways!

So the randomly chosen winner is...

(drumroll)

*missknits*

Congratulations!

Look for an email from me so

I know exactly which pouch you choose

and where to send it.

Thank you everyone!!

g.i.v.e.a.w.a.y

2010-03-20T13:59:00.006-05:00

It's that time again!

It's my first giveaway of the year

and I'm excited about it!

Here are the details:

Leave me a comment between today

and Saturday, March 27th about which

pouch you would pick if you won.

Be sure to leave an email for me to

contact you incase you win!

I will pick the winner by random and

will announce it on Sunday, March 28th.

I'll contact the winner and they can pick

out the pouch they want from my shop.

Simple, fun, and free!

Good luck!

p.s. If you like my blog, I'd love it if you followed me :)

bright fun pouches

2010-03-13T18:27:00.009-06:00

I've been busy happily making some bright

fun + spring ready pouches.

Some of them turned out so great that

I would even use them as a clutch.

I feel the urge to have a giveaway

some time soon.

And maybe have the winner pick out

their favorite pouch.

Hm...

Details on that in the coming week.

Meanwhile...my latest creations.

it's pouring

2010-03-11T11:23:00.014-06:00

It's 51 degrees farenheit out and it's raining pretty hard.

I'm not feeling too great and so I'm home from work

with my vanilla chai and my dog.

The snow is practically all gone and I'm aching for spring.

But I just love this weather.

My patient companion, Juno.

peek a boo

2010-03-06T19:33:00.007-06:00

Hi guys. I'm back.

It's been awhile and I seriously forgot

some of the little tricks I used to use to fix

the glitches I always had with writing posts.

So if this looks off, sorry.

But you all are sweet and I know will understand.

So here's the update:

been busy... with work, school, life.

Writing blogs was taking a long time and I wasn't selling any pouches

That bummed me out.

So I gave myself a break.

A long one.

I got my energy, ideas, and act together

and have had a huge explosion of pouches

bursting out of my mom's sewing machine.

It's been great.

And I feel motivated and encouraged and even if it takes

three more months to make another sale

I'm happy and I'm loving it.

So there. That's the update.

Now enough talking, because that's not what you came here for.

Or at least that's usually why I don't go on blogs.

I come for the eye candy. Here's some for you.

Eat up.

weekend business

2009-09-14T01:21:00.006-05:00

this little piggy went to the market
and bought a whole bunch of clothes
she didn't really need.
horray for a shopping filled weekend!

dress success

2009-09-11T18:25:00.006-05:00

lame title, i know.

but it's the first dress I've ever made

and somehow I feel like I have the right to be cheesy.

It has a couple of little things

that I need to fix

but still, I love it.

I was trying to make it look similar to

a Liz Claiborne dress I fell in love with:

hmm, maybe next time....

i'm a girl of my word

2009-09-11T17:26:00.008-05:00

and so although it takes forever for me to post up photos,

I'm doing it. Out of love.

And also because chances are if I say I'm gonna do something,

I probably will.

The plate matches the bowl I made a while back.

They're all about 6 inches across.

Perfect for dessert or to hold little things on your desk.

What do you think?

lovely package exchange

2009-09-11T16:15:00.006-05:00

About a month or so ago oh, hello friend had

a lovely package exchange.

I thought it was the most fantastic idea ever.

So I immediately signed up and was so excited

to get a partner and plan a lovely package for her.

My partner was Kathy and it was so much fun

preparing some lovely things for her.

But I was absolutely thrilled when I received my package!

Here is a glimpse of how lucky I was.

Everything was wrapped SO carefully,

with whimsical paper and

thick, fun ribbons.

I felt so special! -.-

I received a great book on a handmade Christmas. Right up my alley!

A hole puncher for large squares. Perfect for crafts!

And beautiful vintage lacey fabric and crocheted throw.

Thank you so much Kathy!

And thanks oh, hello friend for organizing all this!!!

super busy

2009-09-10T23:14:00.011-05:00

I hate not staying on top of blog posting

and I promise I'm not making excuses when I say

I've been SO busy.

School started, been working,& catching up with friends.

I know I should make time for writing on here

and that is why my guilty conscience kicked in tonight.

I could be sleeping right now

but decided I need to keep my blog company for a bit.

Just let it know what's been going on.

So back to ceramics class.

And as usual I love it.

To anyone who kept up with me,

those plates I made turned out awesome.

For my first plates, the form is good

and the glaze on some of them are gorgeous.

I plan to make more and hopefully get them perfect

or as close as I can and do a giveaway with one or two.

I made a lovely pitcher the other day,

but sort of cheated because my teacher helped me

with the handle.

Either way I learned and plan to make another.

I have a handful of pieces waiting to be glazed

but I seem to have run into a problem.

I'm starting to be real picky about my glaze

choices because it can make or break the piece.

As in make it awesome or make it super lame/boring.

So, although I have a vase for a friend that

needs to be glazed, I'm holding off just to

really find the perfect look for it.

Same goes for about 7 other pieces.

On a lighter note,

I made a dress!

It turned out pretty good!

I need to fix a couple little things

but it's not bad at all.

Especially for a first dress.

Luckily I had a very awesome talented friend

guide me through it all.

It took nearly 8 hours but it was very satisfying when it was done.

I'm planning to wear it to my cousin's wedding.

So I've been busy, you see.

I don't even like wasting blog space with so much typing.

I'm not too crazy about reading super long posts.

But an update/excuse was desperately needed, I think.

Tomorrow I plan to post up photos of the dress

and the plates I made.

Basically this was a post to alert you about tomorrow

and let you know that, yes, I'm still alive.

And since writing on here and not adding a couple of photos

would drive me nuts... I'm adding two more that

have nothing to do with anything I just wrote.

This was last summer.

Chillin' with my man on those hot summer days

by the river near his house.

Bringing back film on a good ol' Canon AE-1.

Something I've been wanting to do lately.

Now I just need to do it before this summer is gone.

danger is his middle name.

morning flower

2009-09-03T10:27:00.002-05:00

-sigh-

and the winner is...

2009-08-31T01:09:00.004-05:00

Congratulations to Kate8085!

Thanks so much to everyone who entered.

I am so grateful for all the wonderful

people who take the time to peek in on

what I love to do.

I plan to have more giveaways

in September so don't forget to check back

for another chance to win something!

xoxo

You guys are the best!

g-g-g-giveaway.

2009-08-23T17:25:00.007-05:00

yes, ladies and gents.

it's that time again.

and after hoping my plates would be out of the kiln by now

for a giveaway, i've given up on that idea.

darn that slow ceramics studio.

so i decided to take matters into my own hands,

which is my job,

since it is my blog.

right?

weeeellll.

i made a buncha pouches and i made one especially for one lucky winner.

could it be you?

i sure hope so!!

here is the pouch:

It's about 5.5 x 8 inches, made with a linen/cotton blend I purchased off etsy, decorated with crocheted trim all around the top(front and back), and is lined with some creamy cotton fabric. It closes with a hook-and-eye. It was the first pouch I attempted to make with a flat bottom and so I learned from it. Didn't turn out too bad, I think. :)

Here is how to enter:

follow me or already follow me= 1 entry

comment on here and tell me which pouch is your fav from my tiny shop= 1 entry

refer a friend or post/link about this giveaway on your blog= 1 entry

^^have your friend tell me you referred them.

send me a link to your blog if you post about the giveaway.^^

The giveaway ends saturday, august 29th...10pm central time.

I will pick a person randomly announce the winner sunday the 30th.

Good luck! And don't forget to let me know where to contact you at!

p.s. check out the post before this one! it's also a new one.

sisters are good for

2009-08-23T15:10:00.011-05:00

There is something special about a sister.

I have a handful of them and I know that a relationship with a sister

is better than one with a friend...if you're lucky.

You see, in front of a sister you are YOU.

You aren't influenced as much by the way they act

because, well, you put up with it since you've been born.

Or since they've been born.

You can be goofy, dumb, embarassing...all with out being embarassed.

You can make up weird movies together and film them on

a video camera as old as you.

(we've done that one. the movie is called crackers.

it could be a blockbuster hit someday. we're still dreaming.)

You can jump and wrestle on a trampoline with your sisters

and laugh so hard you don't have the strength to

tackle each other anymore.

Or you can just have a photo shoot with your sister.

Which is what I did today.

It started off as me asking her to model a vintage skirt I spruced up.

But she didn't shave her legs.

Me either.

But I ended up putting the skirt on.

And asked her to just take a couple of shots by our boat that is now

just a lawn ornament.

Well, it become more than just a couple of shots when she said

"work it baby."

We started goofing off, circling our beautiful backyard

and loading my camera with "model" shots.

I'm no model. She's no photographer.

But it sure was fun.

And in the end, we felt like pros.

And we started to remember how lucky we are

to have such a gorgeous backyard.

We grew up here, playing outdoor make believe games.

This time, we were making believing that we were on America's Next Top Model.

And boy was it great.

more pouches

2009-08-16T18:47:00.010-05:00

I got around to making four more pouches

and I'm very happy with the way they turned out.

So as I write this I am adding them to

my etsy shop.

I plan to have another giveaway soon.

I made about seven plates in the ceramics studio

and am waiting for them to come out of the kiln.

If they turn out nicely, I'll possibly do one

of those as a giveaway. Or another piece I made.

So stay tuned my friends.

photo corner frames

2009-08-10T18:48:00.013-05:00

I recently got a new bed and rearranged all

the posters on my wall,

leaving a very bare and boring wall right above my bed.

I didn't want another large poster

and I have tons of photos I ordered off etsy

that I never got around to getting frames for.

So after a productive day of shopping,

I came home with three beautiful hanging votive jars

that were on sale for $2.95 at Anthropologie

and I decided it was time to add some color

and eye candy to the empty space.

The photographs are from Alice B. Gardens

and since I didn't have frames

I used self-adhesive photo corners

I had from the craft store

to hold the photos up.

Now I'm just waiting for a dark stormy night

to light up those tea candles and snuggle up with

a good book.

shop is open!

2009-08-08T13:37:00.006-05:00

Yes, you read it right.

I finally opened my etsy shop!
So far I have the three pouches I made in there

but I ordered a fresh batch of materials

off etsy and will be making more

as soon as I get the supplies.

I'm trying to decide which ceramic pieces

I want to sell in there.

It's hard to part from some of them

and at the same time

I want to sell the good pieces that

are etsy worthy.

But still I'm excited to finally be selling

the things I love to make.

Check it out at my shop!

lazy bones

2009-08-07T12:03:00.003-05:00

I'm sure you all have those moments when you

keep putting off what you should be doing.

Well my "moment" was this whole week.

So sorry sorry sorry

blog

for not posting.

But I have a reason that I sort of stated

in my last post.

I'm eager to put up the pouches I made in my

etsy shop

(if you're going to click it^^ be aware that it's still empty)

But I'm waiting for my moo mini's to come in

so I can put them to good use.

And they'll be here any day now

So I'll probably put them up tomorrow.

And that will call for a nice LOUD, ANNOUNCING

kind of post.

But today it's rainy out and there's not much to say

except for I'm taking too long reading

My Sister's Keeper

and I forgot how much I love to read.

But here's a photo to leave you all with.

Just a little distraction.

enjoy. come back tomorrow.♥

saturday

2009-08-01T15:51:00.005-05:00

last summer I got into playing around with film and had a lot of fun messing around with a holga and putting 35mm film in it. I have a bunch of cool shots but I figured I'll save them for days where just a photo will suffice as a blog post. a.k.a. me having a slow day. :)

oh and about putting those pouches I made in my etsy shop...

I'm holding off on that for a little because I decided to order some moo mini cards and want to be able to send them

off with any purchases. Once those are in, the shop will officially open. yippee! -.-

days off = things made

2009-07-30T11:41:00.008-05:00

in my opinion nothing beats having tons of spare time and

filling it up with crafting.

which is exactly what i've been doing

and i couldn't be happier.

i have a friend who asked me to make her a pouch

similiar to the giveaway one.

i figured out an easier way to sew it

and i think it came out really nice.

i want to make another and put it up on etsy today.

if i do, i'll let you guys know. it would be my first item

made to sell on etsy.

this pouch has hook closures instead of the button. and days off also means i get to work on more pottery.

i recently made this small bowl and

am so happy with the way the glaze came out.

i like pieces to have visual interest.

a blend of colors or texture.

i love the eggplant purple.

i'm so satisfied.

black and white

2009-07-26T00:00:00.001-05:00

i took a black and white film photography class last year

and i really enjoyed it.

it was my first photography class and it was really exciting

to see how film is developed and see the image come out on the prints.

i absolutely loved it.

i just take one class a semester

and i've been taking ceramics since the beginning of this year.

sometimes i really miss photography though.

i once peeked my head into the developing lab just to smell the chemicals.

film photo classes can be pricey when factoring

in the film, photo paper, and other things purchased.

but i was looking through the photographs i took

and found my first roll.

i miss it and i'm thinking of taking it again next year.

if any of you has the chance to take a film photo class

i completely encourage it.

this photo isn't big enough to tell, but it's ants on a slide.

cicada shell

goodies and stuff

2009-07-21T22:50:00.027-05:00

I've been able to spend some more time in the ceramics

studio lately which makes me really happy. And I finally

seem to be having some cool turnouts with the glazes.

I'm actually pretty satisfied with these.

I like this egg shape and the drips are actually a brighter blue than this shows.

You can't really tell in these photos but this piece actually has a glaze I like a lot. It's a matte white with an iridescent yellow shimmer. I think it's pretty.

I just thought this glaze turned out really cool and different from what I usually do.

And there were a couple of people who wanted to see the lidded piece I made that I wasn't too crazy about. The lid isn't perfect around and I would do the top of the lid differently. Not only that but the glaze didn't turn out like I was hoping it would. But that's the fun of playing with glazes.

and now for yet another "things i bought off etsy that i love so much i need to share it with everyone" segment. I just made that up now, there is no segment. I'm just always getting things I ordered and can't keep it to myself. I think everyone should heart these shops and treat themselves to an item from either of these!

pin cushion and hair elastics from namolio

absolutely breath taking prints from alicebgardens

and last but definitely not least is this perfect pack from IndustriousLily.

Forgive me but I'm going to gush about this.
People, this amazing pack of paper goods cost me $30!
It came with this:
5 Letterpress Greeting Cards, 6 Folded Letterpress Notes & Envelopes, 6 Flat Letterpress Notes & Envelopes, 1 "Perfect Note Pad" (100 sheets), 1 pack of 8 Letterpress Gift Tags, and 1 pack of 5 Enclosure cards.
And the best part is you get to customize it!
I go weak in the knees for adorable packaging and this did it for me.
The wooden initial, wax string, wooden initial, and pink bellied box...
it was all too cute. And the paper goodies made it a trillion times better.
Have you ever felt like you got the best deal in the world?
If not, go buy this. And really, it would make such a lovely lovely gift.
I'm swimming in handmade heaven.

stay tuned

2009-07-21T14:37:00.002-05:00

I'll be putting up a nice chunky post tonight filled with photos galore.

But I'm at work now and so you'll have to wait.

Meanwhile check out koo and poppet and this adorable giveaway.

love it. want it.

announcing the giveaway winner

2009-07-19T22:48:00.003-05:00

First off I would like to sincerely thank all the people who payed attention to this giveaway by commenting, following, or referring. I can't tell you how much it's appreciated. I'm so excited that my first giveaway went down so smoothly and that thirteen people entered! Not bad for my first time.

So the winner of the pouch is

(drum roll please)

silly little lady!

woohoo!

Congratulations!

I'll be contacting you soon.

To everyone who is bummed out that they didn't win,

do not fret my friends.

I will make giveaways a staple on this blog.

Maybe twice or more a month.

So there are more chances and maybe I'll make another pouch

for those lonely pens and pencils.

Again thanks! You guys are the best!

♥

giveaway

2009-07-15T21:52:00.013-05:00

I'm excited to be having my very first blog giveaway.

I've never done this before and hope I'm going about it the right way.

If not, someone drop me a hint and next time I'll get it right.

What I'm giving away is a cute pouch I sewed out of some linen purchased from ermisino and some recycled clothing fabric.

It has a button closure and is about 6x9 inches.

So here is how you get an entry:

commenting on this post= 1 entry

following me= 1 entry

referring a friend= 1 entry

If you comment on the post and already follow, you get two entries.

just let me know you follow.

If you follow me but don't comment, you won't get an entry

because I won't know if you're interested in winning.

You get an entry for each friend referral, and then your friend can also enter

by commenting and following...therefore getting themselves entered twice.

They can just comment in their post that "so and so referred me".

Simple enough I hope.

If not let me know.

The cut off for entering is Sunday July 19th

at 12 noon U.S. central time.

The winner will be selected at random.

I will announce the giveaway champion Monday July 20th

and then arrange to send the pouch off.

Good luck!

an addiction

2009-07-11T01:33:00.009-05:00

i have a sick addiction to notebooks, sketchbooks, notepads, post-its.
like a really serious addiction.
i think i hoard them.
i have maybe 8 or more notebooks laying around waiting to be used.
and i'm not talking boring school notebooks.
i'm talking etsy
target
urban outfitters
notebooks.
so i made a stop at target a couple days ago for doggie poo bags
and a photo album
and came home with about $20 worth of
cute journals, a folder, and sticky notes.
i think everyone needs sticky notes with a dotted pattern.

i also came home with this book because
i decided i really miss reading
and because i'm not busy enough
(yeah right)
i'm going to read it.
i also heard the book is awesome. better than the movie.
which is on my list of the things to see.
i used to stay up til the sun came up reading books as a kid.

boy do i miss those summer days.
time was all i had. where did it go...

p.s. as much as i don't want to admit im a targetholic, i totally am i also bought a dog grooming shaver kit thing. i'll save some money by grooming Juno on my own. Then I can spend that saved money on journals and notepads. Any one else groom their own dog? Any tips?

sew little time

2009-07-10T23:56:00.011-05:00

so i had some spare time on my hands

(yeah right)

and decided to take some photos of the stuff i've already glazed

and a couple of other things

enjoyyy

i really like the color and shape of this piece.

problem is, the glaze was super runny

and nearly ran right off the piece.

(you can tell in the photo on the right)

but now i know for next time to take it easy.

i like this piece a lot, i threw it on the wheel

but decided to stray from my normal perfectly round circular stuff

and kind of just smash it to make it different.

then i made a scale design on the top.

what i don't like is that i didn't glaze the inside

and it seems to rough for me, too bland.

i also had another piece i made that i really liked

but i gave it to glenn, my guy.

it was small, pear shaped, and had a lid

(my first lidded piece!)

i really dislike the glaze color.

it's a mix of cream and green.

not what i was really going for

which to me looks kind of like,

i don't know...vomit.

maybe i'm being too picky

but i think i need to be so i can improve.

agree?

now for the cute happy stuff!

i bought this from miss pickle press

and just think it's the cutest.

i plan to give it to my cousin for her upcoming wedding

i hope she doesn't read my blog

or it won't be a pleasant surprise card.

it says:

and they lived happily ever after.

congratulations.

i hope someone gives me a card this cute when i get married.

i'd save it forever.

and i can't help but feel happy with myself

i got around to sewing tonight

and i made this!!

it's a cute pouch.

or at least i think it's cute.

i used the fabric and button i purchased from ermisino

and i think it turned out pretty good.

and the inside lining, flower, and lace are just fabric i had around.

so i'm thinking of possibly doing my first giveaway with this.

if i do one, it'll be in a separate post soon enough.

anyone interested in winning it?

a belated studio visit

2009-07-10T14:08:00.008-05:00

last night i made a visit to the ceramics studio at school.

glazed a couple of older pieces and then decided to

try and do some work on the wheel.

i literally have not set foot on the wheel pedal for a good month.

and boy did it show.

i could not get a piece off the wheel that i actually liked and wanted to keep.

i've only been doing this for a little over half a year but it was frustrating.

and the lab aid could tell.

he gave me some good advice that i'm going to start doing next time i come in.

he said throw** a hundred cylinders.

over and over again, don't focus on making anything yet.

just throw a cylinder with the goal of making it perfectly.

pick the best one

and throw out the other ninety nine.

then throw one hundred more cylinders, but bigger.

same thing as the last, keep just one.

he said it will help to get the feel of a good centering and well made piece.

i'm tired of making stuff i'm not totally in love with.

i want to be more than content.

hopefully later tonight or tomorrow i will post some

photos up of stuff i made, and critique myself.

in a nice way.

just say why it's not the way i want it.

i hope to learn from what i'm doing and improve.

any similar stories of things you've done that you want to improve on?

how did you figure out the right way to go about it?

share with me.

i love stories.

**to those who know nothing about pottery,

to throw is to make a piece on

the pottery wheel

not to literally throw a cylinder. ha.

^.^

etsy

2009-07-08T13:40:00.002-05:00

i really have had my mind lately on opening an etsy shop.
thing is, i don't even know what i would sell yet.
i do things from ceramics and sewing, to photography and crocheting.
but i feel like i need to jump on it and give it a try.
nothing too big. just make stuff, try to sell it, and see where it goes from there.
any etsy sellers reading this, advice or encouragement would be very welcomed.
-.-

thanks a bunch.

♥

dreams

2009-07-07T13:56:00.006-05:00

Brandi Carlile:

the most incredible singer EVER,

don't bother trying to convince me otherwise.

she's coming back here in the fall!

IM GONNA EXPLODE WITH JOY!

SEEN HER 3 TIMES ALREADY!

HAH!

WWOOOOOOOOOOOOOWWWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

and now that I've calmed down

(not really)

here is a song off her new album Give Up The Ghost that will be released in the fall.

im thrilled :D

^^but bigger than that^^

Brandi Carlile - Dreams (Live in Portland) by musictoday