sweet feet

Just FYI? My feet happen to be the cutest feet on earth.

And if you disagree with me? YOU WOULD BE WRONG.

Just sayin.

bloated. too many Ruffles.

The foot photo that started the love of sweet feet... 7th or 8th grade

Sunday night at the Walkers

Sunday night excitement at the Walker household! Yes folks, this is what it's come to. You can barely see the game board in the center of the table. One by one we each brought our laptops over to the table as we waited for our turn. Why make interesting conversation or joke around when we can have our brains sucked right into our laptops through an unknown magnetic force, no doubt called 'vacu-lock' or 'brain-drain' or 'cell-squash'? I mean, how much easier is that? Practically no thinking required!

All right, all right - we weren't really THAT bad. We were actually having a really fun time. But we caught a glimpse of how we looked and thought it would indeed, seem pretty ridiculous to someone on the outside looking in. And a good reminder to all of us how technology really CAN take over our lives in a big way. So much about technology is incredible and continually changing our world. So much about it is frightening, and used for evil, awful purposes. Or at the very least, a huge waste of time.

My intention tonight is not to climb onto a soap box - just to show you a humorous moment at our house. Normally our Sunday nights are quite animated as we play games (usually on the loud side... okay, on the really obnoxious side) or watch movies. I hope your weekend and your Sunday night was full of fun - or whatever you wanted it to be -rather than 'vacu-lock' or 'brain-drain' or 'cell-squash'. Life is much too short for that!

recovery mode

*sigh* Was yesterday one of the saddest days ever or what??? So sad :( Today was like a strange non day - a kind of quiet continuation of yesterday spilling over into today. I think the world is still very much in shock, left without it's King of Pop. And so..... I shop. (not intended to sound cheeky)
Are these not the CUTEST little lemon dishes??? I found myself wandering aimlessly down the aisles of Pier 1 during their fabulous summer sale. I could literally live at Pier 1 and World Market. Oh yes. And let me just say, it is a FAB sale. I didn't even make it half way through the store because I went into sensory overload. I have more things planned than even I can imagine. And I can imagine quite a lot. But I was on a be-kind-to-myself mission, so before I inadvertently started honking "MAYDAY!" I purchased these adorable lemon dishes, went to the store for diet Coke, Ruffles, lemons & limes, and drove home. I set myself up in style to watch the outcome show of So You Think You Can Dance, which I hadn't had the chance to watch yet, and I had a little party all by myself. It was...... exquisite.

*chill*

MJ

Michael Jackson 1958-2009

I am still so stunned and saddened at the unexpected loss of Michael Jackson so tragically... I am truly having trouble accepting the fact that he is really gone. I think back on the unimaginable death of Princess Diana, beloved by all, and how in shock I was then too. I think of the lyrics Don McLean penned in his anthem "American Pie", about the death of Buddy Holly being "the day The Music died". The Music, once again, is silent.

I grew up listening to Michael Jackson. My kids grew up listening to Michael Jackson. We still listen to Michael Jackson. The entire world listens to Michael Jackson. To think of all he has contributed in terms of his music, and dance, and innovation, and style....... we're talking a force of global proportion. His music indeed, influenced the world, as only a handful of artists of his caliper have had the power and magnitude to achieve.

*Now, before I go on, I must say..... of course I realize the world also lost our beautiful and brave Farrah Fawcett. Her long battle with cancer was a lesson of courage in the face of death. I followed her story and was saddened to hear of her passing. But I also felt a great sense of relief for her, that she was finally free from such a horrid, cruel illness. I felt that she had been given her wings, and could now be a true angel. I believe that*

People feel at liberty to say some mighty wicked things about Michael Jackson. Well here's what I think. I think Michael never had a real life. I think he was a musical genius. I think he never grew up, never really knew who he was, and just tried his best to piece together the shell of the adult he wanted to be, even though much of him remained a little boy inside. I think he was misunderstood, taken advantage of, and listened to the wrong people a lot of the time. I can't imagine having to live life, never knowing what life really was. But I think his incredible talent gave him something to live for, because his joy was being on stage performing for his fans. And he was an entertainer like no other. And he gave us his gift to cherish.

A gifted, talented, sensitive soul.

You will be sorely missed.

Your music and influence will live on forever.

Color Love on Etsy

Ah, color... the cheerfulness in life! Today I'm highlighting several items from my personal "favorites" category on Etsy. I wanted to bring attention to small, affordable, handmade gems of color. I appreciate things that are useful as well.

First up, above, is the more-than-adorable Prism Flower wool felt pin from Pinksparrow $13.75. I heart it in a big way. Okay, I fess up - I heart several of her designs in a big way. They are all quite lovely - some are cute and witty as well. And they would go with everything from a jean jacket to a knit cap. What a great gift for yourself or a loved one!
Next I am highlighting an Amy Butler fabric pincushion by BuddyDesigns $12:00. Is is not just exquisite! Love the Amy Butler fabric of course - who doesn't! - but the cushion is made just so flawlessly. What a dream! Like the felt pin at the top, what a fun gift this would make! And what a special treat for your own sewing box too! Oh yay!
And speaking of sewing, this next Etsy store is my new favorite supplier. Regarding my last post... just LOOK at this example of fabulous floral mix jacquard trim from trimgoddess for $8.60! And seriously? This is the tip of the iceberg - she is truly the goddess of trim! Let's just say there will need to be a "Get Your Groove On #2" in the near future ;)
Last but certainly not least, these push pins are cute as buttons because that's exactly what they look like! Covered in Mary Englebreit primary color fabric, 22 large push pins by fabricfarrago $20. These would not only be useful, but fun to use! Life is definitely a chair of bowlies :)

Get Your Groove On

*welcome readers from One Pretty Thing!!!

Soooo happy to have you!!! :)

Today we are releasing our inner hippy chick. You know you want to. Just a few fun little crafts to embellish our jeans. Even modern day hippy chicks have to have at least one pair of these - it's in the rule book. It's easy and quick, and especially fun-loving for summer time.

You'll only need a pair of whatever jeans you decide to use - capris look cute too - and the usual sewing staples like a machine, pins, sharp fabric shears, etc. As far as the ribbon you choose, keep in mind: aim for at least an inch wide (I love 2 inch ribbon), and a woven fabric type will work best - a woven jacquard pattern for example, as opposed to a slick satin type. Remember, you will want to be washing these jeans and will want your ribbon to hold up. As far as yardage, usually one yard is near perfect, but I always get a little extra.
For my first pair of jeans, I am actually using the 2" ribbon to add 2" to the length. I get all my jeans on eBay (yup, I really do) and this seller had not mentioned that these jeans were "short" instead of "regular". I started by cutting the bottom hem off of the jeans - not something I would usually do - then reattaching it to the ribbon. So though you cut it off, you leave just enough jean material above the hem to reattach the ribbon. Don't worry - just stay with me.....
Next I am reattaching the top of the ribbon to my jeans - see how nice that looks? You would never know the bottom hem is actually separated from the jeans. Sometimes I scare myself.

Okay, here is how both legs turned out. Way cute, huh. I mean totally groovy :)

The second pair of jeans I embellished went much quicker of course, because all I did was sew the ribbon directly to the jeans, right above the hemline. In fact I hardly even had to use pins because I could use the hemline as a guide. It's kind of hard to tell, but in this picture I am folding the top edge of the ribbon under, before securing it to be sewn down.
Here the ribbon is placed down and I am about to sew over it horizontally. I also use a zig-zag stitch whenever possible (when it will not show) in order to make sure the weave of the ribbon is secure and will not unravel as it is washed, etc.
Here is the final outcome of this set of jeans. Much more subtle but still way cool :)Okay, onto the third pair of jeans and a project that is one of my favorite things to do EVER. It's the flower child in me - I just can't help it :)

The first thing you do is cut the hems off of your jeans - this time you will not be reattaching them so you can chuck 'em.
Then with your sharp fabric shears, start making thin vertical cuts into your jeans, about 1" high. It doesn't have to be perfectly precise - I just eyeball it - but it should at least be a fairly straight line.
Then taking a sharp object like a thumb tack or a large safety pin, start at the bottom of the cuts, and work your way up, snagging all the cut thread until it falls out. This isn't hard, but it's time consuming, so it's a great thing to do while watching TV or during a kids' lesson, etc. Add some hip ribbon, and the outcome is so full of fringy goodness that it's just downright groovalicious.

And now you've got your groove on :)

Father's Day

This picture of my father is nearly 30 years old, but it's one of my very most favorite pictures of him. I must have been home visiting from college, because my guitar is sitting next to him. He must have been in a pretty good mood - normally he wasn't too keen with pictures. So for his guard to be down and show his silly side was always a delight - especially to capture in on camera.

My brother and I grew up listening to him play the ukulele and sing old songs like "By the Light of the Silvery Moon". He was 51 years old when I was born, and music was one of the few threads that bound us together. My brother and I cherished these songs and even had our own special parts to them. I still get teary when I hear them occasionally, even after all these years.

My father has been gone more than 13 years now, which is hard for me to believe. He was a fascinating person. Born in Scotland, led a full and interesting life, married late, and became a successful and respected leader in the movie industry. He could be unpredictable, tactless and sometimes even frightening. But he could also be a big tease, and had a loving, generous, faith-filled heart. I miss him.

Once as I was wandering in a large antiques mall, I heard the unmistakable sound of someone strumming a ukulele from afar. It stopped me in my tracks and took great effort on my part to compose myself. Funny, how something so unexpected runs so unexpectedly deep. When the light of the silvery moon shines down, I know my father is watching over me. Happy Father's Day Dad - I love you.

* * *

But of course Father's Day is also about the here and now. And I would be amiss if I didn't mention my husband John, the father of our own three boys. I am grateful for his hard work and dedication, for all his effort. I hope he knows how much we all appreciate him. I know most of the time he'd much rather have a guitar in his hands than be doing anything else. But he has also passed that gift and appreciation of music to his boys - and so the thread of music in common continues down the line. Thank you John, for all you do - we love you :)

Best wishes to all of you men out there today! Have a wonderful day!

Paper Art Love

Okay seriously, are you even KIDDING me??? Just LOOK at this!!! The color, the paper, the precision cutting, the creativity that had to be tapped into to to create something of this magnitude..... Good grief, is this just amazing or WHAT!!! And guess what peeps - it's mine! MINE!!! It comes from Box64Studios a la Etsy. This woman has talent and skill. Whoa. It's like a kaleidoscope with texture. It's like Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds. And I've barely had a sip of diet Coke today.

I first saw her work on Little Brown Pen, a favorite blog authored by Nichole (who is obsessed with All Things France). I took one look at that colorful paper art and my eyes popped right out of my head. And then the day came when Nichole received her package from Box64Studios and I think I died right along with her when she unwrapped it! Joy and rapture!

Now, I'm not one to jump on the bandwagon or keep up with the neighbors, but when it comes to color, and art, and Etsy, and anything unique that takes such skill and creativity....... well, there's only one way to put it and that is I knew I had to be the next recipient! HAD TO! So I will try to be patient for my artwork to arrive and YES, I will share it with you when I receive it!

seriously gross food fun

I mean COME ON! Are these spaghetti dogs revolting and adorable at the same time or WHAT! I know many of my readers have young kids, and perhaps it's the boy mom in me... but the second I saw these, I knew I had to share them! What kid could possibly resist!

This fun activity comes via plumpudding - a very creative blog catering especially to the young and young at heart. Loads of fun ideas almost daily - be sure to check it out! You'll want to go there anyway, because you will find more specific details, plus some great reader comments & suggestions regarding these ugly/cute spaghetti dogs!

retro works of food art :)

Words of Love

I just *love* this. Author Katherine Center paints words from her novel Everyone Is Beautiful on her friend Jenny's body. Photographs by Karen Walrond. You're going to want to watch it a few times :)

*note: if all her words are not in view, click HERE

Special Event * Silent Auction

*ENDING SOON - Tues 6/16 at 9:00pm PST*

I remember briefly hearing of Carol Decker's harrowing ordeal in the news, and then... nothing. It has been nearly a year since her tragic experience, and she and her family have crossed my mind countless times. It's not the sort of thing you ever forget.

I was astounded to see an update and hear of this silent auction when I happened to visit a favorite blog today! I would do anything to help this brave woman and her family! And you will too, after you hear her story. Please take some time to do just that - and to participate in the silent auction in her behalf. Make sure you scroll all the way down - not just to see the wonderful auction items donated, but to make sure you read Carol's entire story. You will be horrified... and amazed. All proceeds go directly to the family, 100% - so please be your generous selves :)

butt wipes kick A$$

Strangest post ever, I know. Yes, this is a tiny little corner of my bathroom. Now, those of you who know me well, know that I have more bathroom/toilet issues than one person needs in a lifetime. (don't even get me going on public facilities. or worse - European ones) So why would I put my bathroom on my blog? Because this is where I keep my huge stash of butt wipes. And butt wipes ROCK MY WORLD. My world has revolved around butt wipes for years and years, because they clean everything from carpet to leather. And butts. My friend Lisa was shocked I had not posted about my love of wipes. Be shocked no longer.
There is only one brand worthy of wipe worship: Huggies. I'm not usually a brand worshipper, but believe me, I've tried them all over the years. The other brands are total wimps compared to Huggies. Thin, sniveling wimps. Huggies clean and moisturize. They don't break apart. They smell good. They're thick and substantial. They delicately clean and moisturize antique woodenware just as well as they clean up cat barf from off the floor. Or scuffs from off the rubber of my new sneakers. Or my leather bound books. Or my dogs bum when she stole too many chicken nuggets the night before..... You get the idea. Here are some good "before"/"after" pics:

*fear not: no real butts ahead

The vinyl and leather in our cars are one of my FAVORITE things butt wipes clean SO WELL! Here is the completely disgusting door handle in my son's truck. Ewww.

OOOOOOOH! Does this look brand new or what!

Okay this is no joke - this is my Bug seat after using only ONE butt wipe on the upper half! Look at the amazing difference! Is that awesome or what! Butt wipes are the BOMB.

*NOTE: in answer to all the e-mails I'm getting... regrettably, wipes are NOT flushable :( But they're still the BOMB

So I hope you have learned something valuable here today. One, I have major toilet issues. Two, my world revolves around butt wipes. Three, butt wipes clean and moisturize more things than you would imagine <------ most important thing. Four, you will never look at me the same.

"ummm... I think I need a butt wipe..."