The Distracted Domestic

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!! ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

2012-02-14T14:24:00.000-08:00

It's a fun little hallmark holiday, ain't it?

From the dot

Yes, she made them all be her little lonesome.

Yes, they do taste yummy!

Gerber Daisies...my fave

Got these and an oh soooo appropriate card from the hubs.

Hope you day was special too!

AFTER A 20 YEAR.........

2012-02-13T13:20:00.000-08:00

1.a break or interruption in the continuity of a work, series, action, etc.

Hi ho hi ho, it's off to work I go.

I've been home with my kids for a long time and now that college for two looms in my very near future and a grandkid is on the way, a little extra cha-ching will come in handy.

My fabric addiction isn't cheap either. lol

It's just some clerical work for the tax season, but that is one semester for one child and 56 fat quarters for me. :-)

It'll be nice to update the ol' resume too.

Ready, set, punch in!

Steampunk Valentine's Blog Hop

2012-02-10T22:09:00.000-08:00

My friend Lisa told me I HAD to take a look at LRs Very Steampunk Valentine Blog Hop because she knew I loved costuming and steampunk. She's right, I do loves me some steampunk.

I tend to follow patterns instead of creating my own design, but I decided to stretch myself.

I am glad I did!!

I am trying to learn embroidery at the moment so this is what I came up with.

Victoriana Silhouette

It looks a lot bigger than it is. It's a 4" hoop. I used a zipper to simulate the gear and brass look and hand stitched all the gears and the felt silhouettes.

For a look at what everyone else did and a chance at some fun goodies, check out the links below!!

Don't forget to leave a comment.....we all love hearing from you!

Handcrafted Goodness and more!

2012-02-06T22:04:00.000-08:00

As many of you know, I loves me some gifts from the heart and hand(I bet you do too).

Especially if the hands that are making them are very skilled!!

More birthday highlights:

From my dear friend Karen. I already have a spot on it....bad me! But I love it so I intend to love it to death...well, until it's threadbare anyway. :-)

A real live hand embroidered hanky. Probably vintage. See that big 'R'?

The fabric is so delicate, I have no idea how it held up through many a cold season.

My dear friend and fellow road warrior, Denise made these little beauties...also, already in use!!

Mug rug.

I discovered these last year and now I can't imagine not having one (or 6)

And this sewing caddy, cushion, thread-catcher. She says it needs to be a bit heavier since she used some study fabrics.......maybe a little, but so far, it's staying in place.

And now for the "and more" portion

The mailman was very kind to me today. Some giftees to myself arrived.

I shouldn't have done it, but I have a fabric addiction.

I'd ask about a 12 step program, but I just don't want to get better, ya know!

The latest label crew project kit. It makes the cutest little button closure pouches.

Heck, I want a shirt with those buttons!!!

35 zippers.

I know, I know, it seems like a lot, but at .53 cents each...

how could I not be prepared for any sewing project?

Okay, the part where I really, really shouldn't have.

A fat quarter bundle of Hometown by Sweetwater.(drool, drool)

And a halfie bundle of Tuxedo by Riley Blake

Aaannnnnddddd enough canvas to cover my desk chair.....Hometown dots....

It would make really cute grocery bags too. Or zippered pouches or an apron......

Dang it, maybe I should've ordered more.....gotta go!

Birthday fun!!

2012-02-06T14:52:00.000-08:00

It was loud and crowded and filled with laughter and food and friends and family. Just like a celebration ought to be! My brother was the camera man and he took many many unflattering pictures.

Turning 50 wasn't bad at all!!

Some highlights: ipad, marshmallow gun, Star Trek Scrabble, Star Trek Cake and everyone's personal favorite....the butter incident.

Ya see, my little starship wasn't staying perched so the hubs put butter on it to help it glue itself to the decor. WWeeeellllllllll, when I noticed my little ship listing after blowing out my candles, I picked it up to lick off what I assumed was frosting. O -M -G!! Grody to the max! MAX!

Enjoy the slideshow!!

Thank for all the birthday wishes!!!!

Awe some sauce...just sayin....

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!

2012-02-04T06:23:00.000-08:00

It's a milestone birthday. I'm celebrating the 25th Anniversary of my 25th birthday!!

Here I was.....

597 months ago!

Steampunk progress

2012-02-02T12:30:00.000-08:00

I've got my gears all done. Now to the foreground.....

My drawing and stitching skills need more practice, but it's not too bad.

6 More Weeks of winter

2012-02-02T10:40:00.000-08:00

What's for Dinner Winner!!

2012-01-31T15:31:00.000-08:00

Congratulations #5, Jill!

This loverly prize will be winging it's way to you.

Day 5 - The What's for Dinner Solution

2012-01-27T06:09:00.000-08:00

Today we wax poetic about our favorite kitchen appliance and how it works to help get dinner on the table.

My first favorite kitchen appliance is the phone..can you say take out? LOL This whole project has been an exercise to make family meals fun, affordable and better for your family....so easy on the take out it is.

I think my favorite appliance is my stove. My real favorite is a heavy cast iron pot, but that is not an appliance. LOL

I braise, fry, saute`, boil, sear, simmer.....it's how I get supper on the table. I am lucky enough to be a domestic goddess (housewife) and I cook almost everyday, sometimes more than once.

How did this week of meal planning go for you? I actually didn't fret one single time about supper. I know, right! I always fret, but I posted the menu and stuck with it....yes, even when my taste buds were screaming for a Round Table pan pizza. I think I just may plan out next week's meals too.

Wednesday night's supper:

Your project, tell me about your favorite kitchen tool, gadget, appliance; anything that helps you get supper on the table for you and yours!!

All comments get your name in the drawing for this great little book and fantabulous bookmark!

You have a few more days to leave your comments...I am doing 7 days of meals to give those of you that can only check your blogs once in awhile, a little extra time to play catch up.

Monday......a padded envelope could be headed your way....c'mon......play along!!

Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4

Sewing Progress

2012-01-26T11:42:00.000-08:00

I've been pretty much doing this menu planning challenge....and believe me, it's been a challenge! AND, it's surprisingly nice to know what's for dinner. Who knew?

Started a couple of projects this week and this is where I'm at.

The disappearing 9-patch is pieced!

I think I am going to add a narrow pink border and a scrappy binding.

The back will be something fun and soft!!

I am participating in a Steampunk Valentine's Blog Hop.

This is the beginning of my background. Gears are a bit cliche`, but I love them anyway!

My embroidery skills should improve with all this teeny, tiny detail work.

Trust me, my back stitch is not fabulous. Not. Even. Close.

I wonder how I will do when I have to fill in a large space??? Will it look satiny smooth or like a cat's scratched up the furniture? Only time will tell.

Happy creating!!

Day 4...The Go to Meal

2012-01-26T11:20:00.000-08:00

Does your family have a meal that satisfies everyone? Chances are you have one or two.

My family has such a varied taste profile, it's not easy to make everyone happy at one meal. My daughter and hubs, spicy, spicy and more spicy. Me and the boy, simple and flavorful, but easy on the herbs and spices. I am probably the plainest eater. I could eat a very boring menu and be perfectly happy 98% of the time.

Our go to meal is: TACOS. Giant burritos...pretty much just a tex mex meal.

I am suppose to post a recipe, but I don't really have one. I'll just tell ya what I do, k.

*Meat:

My son prefers seasoned ground beef. I use the Taco Bell brand seasoning packet for that.

*The rest of us can go shredded chicken, beef or pork. If I am making this kind of meat, I totally plan a L.O.O.P. meal. Pot roast one night, season, shredded meat the next.

*Corn and flour tortillas. Yes, lightly fried into a taco shell shape. Not too hard, not too soft...jjjuussssttt right.

*The extras:

cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, onion, cilantro, avocado, hot sauce, hotter sauce, hotter even still sauce, seasoned rice, refried and/or whole beans, lemon or lime wedge and a tall glass of iced tea. Okay, the tea is optional but it is really refreshing.

Your project: tell me your family favorites.

You can also buzz on over to Kathi's Blog for a sweet little ecookbook surprise!

Okay, now for a book tease.

This recipe is in the book. S'more Brownies

All you have to do to get this recipe and the rest of the book is play along!! Ah heck, you could just go and get one at a brick and mortar store or online. It really is handy dandy and a fun read.

Happy cooking!!

What's for Dinner, Day 3

2012-01-25T10:56:00.000-08:00

Can you find what you need? If you are like me, you have a place for just about everything and the other people in your house never, ever seem to put things back where they find them.

I keep trying to teach them about organization, but so far...eh.

Your project for today......it's soooooo easy!!

What are your favorite organizing tips? what it it that you do that is really workin' for ya?

Guess that means I do the project too!

I use large glass jars for things like pasta, tea bags and the like. They are old Vlasic pickle jars....so they are ~~affordable~~ free too!! Up-cycling is green!!
I have two silverware sorty containers...one for the pretty, matchy stuff and one for the "yes, you can put it in your lunch pail or dig in the dirt with it" stuff.
My kitchen has almost no storage, so all my baking supplies are kept together in the dining room buffet.
My big freezer has dedicated shelving: meat on one, sweet on one, etc..
My cookbooks stay together...always (can you say anal? Sure, I knew you could. Don't EVEN mix the big forks with the little forks either.....I have no words, really!)

Remember, every project (comment in this case) gets you one step closer to this awesome prize!!

Let's get LOOPy!!

2012-01-24T12:58:00.000-08:00

Day 2 of the What's for Dinner Solution challenge.

What is a LOOP meal?

Left

Overs

Purpose.

You make a meal and plan to use the leftovers later in your weekly meal plan.

Mine this week was my 5 bean chili. Last night we had it with cornbread and tonight it will be wet burritos. (one of my faves) You get a slotted spoon and scoop out the beans, place them in a warm, ginormous, flour tortilla, add cheese and other fixins, roll it up then top with the chili sauce and some cheese to make it all pretty. I am drooling thinking about it.

Update: dinner pic!!

My recipe:

I can each (approx. 16oz), drained and rinsed:black beans
white beans
kidney beans
cannellini beans
pinto beans
petite cut tomatoes(undrained)

1 small onion, chopped
2 bell peppers, chopped or you can use canned green chilis
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon cumin (I use a lot more cuz I really like cumin, so use this as your baseline for flavor)
2 tablespoons chilipowder
1 teaspoon dried oregano, I use mexican oregano...but regular will do
salt and pepper to taste
1 bay leaf
a small wedge of lemon
(opt)a small can of taquera sauce (very spicy thin salsa, not tomato based)
chicken broth ( or veggie broth or beef broth or any combo of the three)

Put a little oil in a dutch oven
add onions, garlic and peppers. saute until soft and mostly cooked
Add everything else.Use only enough broth to make your ''soup'' and thin or thick as you like. I use a lot so I can have ''enchilada sauce" the next day.
Bring to a boil, turn down heat, simmer for 30 minutes.....longer doesn't hurt it a bit.
Serve with grated cheese, cornbread, tortillas, tortilla strips, avocado....whatever makes your tastebuds smile. Yes, you can add meat too.

Let me know, in the comments section, your favorite way to use leftovers. Remember, each comment gets you one step closer to winning your very own book!!

You can also go to kathi's Blog and see her favorite was to use chicken as a LOOP meal.

* * * The "What's for Dinner Solution" Challenge * * *

2012-01-23T11:12:00.000-08:00

My friend, Kathi Lipp, author, speaker and wild woman, is hosting a blogger challenge designed to help all of us who provide the evening's repast (din-din, supper, tea, grab and dash) with some tools and tips to keep a little stress out of our evening rush. This challenge is as much for me as anyone, because I am VERY guilty of not knowing what I am fixing until 4:00pm lol

To quote the infamous Barney Stinson, "challenge accepted!"

A short, publisher written, intro:

For many women, dread turns to panic around 4:00 in the afternoon. That’s when they have to answer that age-old question, “What’s for dinner?” Many resort to another supermarket rotisserie chicken or—worse yet—ordering dinner through a drive-thru intercom.
In The “What’s for Dinner” Solution, popular author and speaker Kathi Lipp provides a full-kitchen approach for getting dinner on the table every night. After putting her 21-day plan into action, women will

save time—with bulk shopping and cooking
save money—no more last-minute phone calls to the delivery pizza place
save their sanity—forget the last-minute scramble every night and know what they’re having for dinner

The book includes real recipes from real women (one from me!!!), a quick guide to planning meals for a month, the best shopping strategies for saving time and money, and tips on the best ways to use a slow cooker, freezer, and pantry. With Kathi’s book in hand, there’s no more need to hit the panic button.

This book, replete with custom made bookmark, can be yours!!

How, you ask?

Follow the challenge directions each day on my blog. That's it! At the end of the week, I'll put all the comments in a jar and pick a winner. Check out Kathi's blog or facebook page for more information.

On to the challenge...

Project One:

In the comments section, post your menu for the week

If you'd like a menu guide, you can find one here and here are some dinner ideas.

My menu--

Monday: Multi bean chili, cornbread and a big ol' salad
Tuesday: LOOP meal (left overs on purpose) Use the strained, leftover chili in a burrito and use the juice as enchilada sauce for a ''wet'' burrito.
Wednesday: Chicken Fried Steak, mashed potatoes and gravy, two veg and some homemade biscuits.See my tutorial for biscuit making here.
Thursday: Leftover night. We are all over the place this day and we all eat a different times, so this is "eat it before it goes bad night" here. LOL
Friday: If the kids are home, chicken and rice and warm flour tortillas, if it's just me and the hubs, breakfast for dinner.
Saturday: BBQ Burgers, it's a tradition. The hubs can't get enough BBQ - ever!
Sunday: Hubs choice, usually something on the BBQ

FNSI for January and mini tutorial

2012-01-21T17:07:00.000-08:00

I actually got a lot done!!

First, I made 8 burp cloths

A close up of the fabric.

I HAVE got to find some that say " I love my grandma and grandpa!"

Next, I worked on a baby quilt

Look at those corners!!

This is my friend Denise's favorite block. It's called a disappearing 9-patch

You start out with a basic 9-patch.

Then you cut it in half one way

Then you do the same thing the other direction.

You get blocks that look like this - - 4 blocks per 9-patch

Then you get to play with the layout

I still need to fiddle with it a lot more, then border it and quilt it and bind it.

My daughter just informed me that I need to make this exact quilt for her possible, future, child that she may or may not have. LOL I can wait....a long time!!

Yes Denise, this one is yours...

He would've been 92 - - - Happy birthday Dr. McCoy!

2012-01-20T12:43:00.000-08:00

Vintage, honest to goodness, real, live vintage!

2012-01-18T20:55:00.000-08:00

Today I got one of the best little surprises ever! The hubs does some yard work for a vintage lady and she sent him home with a tin of buttons.......a tin that belonged to HER MOM!! The tin dates to the 40's and Miss Mardy is in her 80's and I KNOW some of the items are from WWII era.

It's so fun! I just want to play in the buttons for awhile, ya know?!

Now for some pics:

The tin.

It says Dixie Mix.

Guess what?

It held Camel Brand Cigarettes in it. I know, right!

My first peek at all the buttony goodness

Of course I dumped it out. helloooooo

As you can see, most of the buttons are pretty utilitarian. Some were store bought, some from old clothing, some with lots and some with just one or two.

Heck, there is even one ugly, plastic, daisy button from the 70's in there!

Some Bakelite buttons and belt buckles. I'm pretty sure the shell buttons are real shell!

Can you say late 50's/60's tweed? Sure, I knew you could.

There is one lonely little rhinestone button and one lonely little etched glass button too.

And now....

are you ready?

A mending kit for silk stockings!!

Complete....all there!! Squeeeeeeee

Read the directions....awesome sauce!!!

I can't believe how good this still looks after all these years!

The big question: do I use them?

I know I will some of them, but some are just too fun. I saw a shadow box all prettied up with buttons on a blog somewhere....maybe I can do that for some of the more interesting buttons? Hmmmm

Looks like a fun project!!

What would you do with a box of buttons??

Finished Files and a Giftee

2012-01-14T20:09:00.000-08:00

First off, thank you Amy for my lovely mini Christmas quilt. I just may keep it out as a runner for my smaller table.....for the rest of the month!! It's fab-u-lous!!!

Nice, right? She also tucked in a couple of fat quarters and some chocolately goodness!

Now the finished file:

I made this apron for Anita.

We are trading some hand crafted goodness.

She is knitting me some fingerless mittens. I can hardly wait!! I

I've got several projects just waiting for my attention. A quilt for my soon to be born granddaughter (my first grand!), a steampunk valentine and a quilt for me!! Loves me some circa 1934!!

So far, I have been a great finisher this year. In part, I am encouraged by the sew along at sewmuch2luv. All kinds of peeps working together for a common goal: finishing stuff!!!

What can I finish next???? More Valentine's perhaps?

OOooooing, Ahhhhhing and Planning

2012-01-13T11:26:00.000-08:00

There are some days when all you can do is look and marvel at all the possibilities; fondle fabric; look through books and blogs and try and picture, in your mind's eye, your next project. I love days like that!

Yesterday was such a day! The UPS man was my bestie for a just a little while..at least for the time it took for him to walk to my door, ring the bell and leave me two boxes of fabric! Ohhhhhh, the fabric. Let me show you.......

A fat 1/8 pack of Reunion by Sweetwater. Ahhhhh.

I've preordered Lucy's Crab Shack already. Bad me!!

Some Riley Blake (6 charm packs and a jellyroll) for my upcoming grandmahoodness in late May, early June. I can hardly believe it....still.

A charm pack of Circa 1934 for fondling purposes so I can use my layer cake and not feel like I will never see this fabric again. I know, I know......

Am I the only one who falls for a fabric and doesn't want to ''mess it up" by actually using it?

This Circa 1934 quilt kit. LOVE it times two!

The whole kit and kaboodle

Now that I see it all together again, I just want to daydream away. I recently read an article that sometimes the best part of sewing is the planning and the possibilities; the expectation more than the fruition. For some projects, that is absolutely true. It's always nice to keep one dream alive and fulfill all the rest.

What dream do you want to keep? So you can dream and play and plan, ooo and ahhhhh, marvel at all it can be.......

What dreams do you want to see in your "been there, finished that" pile?

My circa 1934 charm pack will stay in my dream pile. As for the rest........I want to oooo and ahhhh over lots and lots of little dreams come true!!

And thanks to my friend Amy, I can Schnibble my day away.....Bad Amy, but Great Amy!!

Finished Files

2012-01-11T22:40:00.000-08:00

I am almost finished with the stuff I started earlier this week.

Baby burp cloths...done!

Apron.....ran out of the right color thread, will finish tomorrow.

Valentines....d o n e!!

And here they are. I have some more fabric on the way because I plan on making a bunch more, only heart shaped and with a pocket. I am loving Sweetwater fabrics and labels and patterns.

Here they are stitched and labeled

Instead of machine stitching, I decided to do a big running stitch.

My colors are a little irregular so I had a hard time finding ribbon I liked

So I made my own in the right colors

I laid out the ribbon, then zig zagged it on

After the first one, I decided I liked it going the other direction.

Kinda cute, eh?

This kinda stuff makes me wish my kids were still little and they needed a boatload of Valentine's for their class. I really enjoyed this project and am looking forward to the rest of the Valentine's.

Then, I get to hand them out!!!! Fun stuff!!

Yes, I am a big ol' kid!

Progress!!

2012-01-09T23:06:00.000-08:00

Well, today I got quite a bit done.

The pictures don't show the whole progress, but I should be done by tomorrow!!

Some valentines. I'm a member of the sweetwater label crew and this is the January project.

Right now, they all all sewn and trimmed and turned and awaiting embellishment.

Pieces of an apron. Hopefully, the person who this is for is madly working on my fingerless mittens!! Hint, hint. Just need to attach the pocket and sew, turn and attach the ties.

Something finished!! Burp cloths.

I know the baby shower isn't for months, but what's a first time gram-gram to do....wait?

I think not!!

I have bunches of stuff in the wings and I plan on being a finisher this year, not just a starter!!

I hope a few of you keep me honest and on my toes!!

Happy Hobbying!

I wanna sew.............soon

2012-01-07T15:04:00.000-08:00

Prepping today, hopefully sewing tomorrow and then stuff to show and tell!!!!

Made 144 mini snickerdoodle cupcakes yesterday

The Dot decided to help me out on the last tray.

I think she got more on her than the cupcakes. LOL

Yes, that is a plate of ''seconds'' on the left. I'm afraid they are all gone. (snicker, snicker)

To quote Crocodile Dundee, "Now that's a piping tip!"

PROJECT RUNWAY ALL-STARS - TONIGHT!!!!

2012-01-05T10:46:00.000-08:00

check your local listings for the Lifetime channel....795 hd where I live!!!!!

fyi...I think mondo was robbed of the title last time...just sayin

Is it wrong that there are a couple of them that I don't want to win??

Just call me snarky.....☺

Short cuts, the geeky computer kind.

2012-01-05T10:13:00.000-08:00

If you have a windows based computer, these keystroke short cuts should work for you. I am sure mac has some similar, but I just don't know about them.

So, you want to use a little irregular punctuation or you are writing a recipe and you don't want to keep trying to find the goshed dang character map (which is where all the keystrokes are located.)

I am only going to list a few of the ones I use, but there are bunches that have key stroke shortcuts.

All the most common true type fonts have these punctuation marks, the fancy ones, rarely. Just saying.

Okay, time to practice:

Hold down your alt key.......

type 3....... then let go....♥

Hold down you alt key, type number, let go...that's the order.

Okay, a few of my faves:

0174....®

0176 .....° (degree symbol: 350°)

0188...¼

0189...½

0190...¾

0252...ü

0241...ñ

0233...é

0131...ƒ

0191...¿

0183...· (like a dot instead of a dash: 555·5555)

3...♥

1...☺

2...☻

7...• (555•5555)

13...♪

14..♫

Go and peruse the character map, they don't all have key stroke short cuts, but quite a few do!!

I have mine written on an index card, but I know several of them by heart or should I say: by ♥?

A few helpful linkies:

common short cuts for windows xp

http://www.seoconsultants.com/windows/key/

http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/21187/insert-any-special-character-with-a-single-keystroke/

for mac:

http://www.compukiss.com/basics/symbols-character-map-2.html

After Christmas Sew Along Starts TODAY!!

2012-01-02T05:56:00.000-08:00

Start the New Year with a bang!!

It's a festival of creative crafty joy over at Sewmuch2luv, and I am not going to miss a minute of it!

Join me!! Sharing and prizes and fun will abound.

http://sewmuch2luv.blogspot.com/

Look, I already started!!!

New Year's Evolutions

2012-01-01T12:53:00.000-08:00

I set a few goals, kept a few goals and totally lost sight of a few goals.....sounds about normal, right.

Last year looked like this:

The short list:

*finish stuff in a timely fashion, "procrastinot"

I got a lot done. honestly, I did really well with this one...perfect...nope....dang near...yep

I am still a major procrastinista, but I am moving forward, not backward.

*drop some tonnage for health and ego

can you say: suckage? sure, I knew you could. LOL However, 2lbs is 2 lbs

*be less restrictive with the creative process

I ran about 50/50 on this one. I am a little anal by nature so this one can be challenging

* be a better mom, wife, friend, Christian

kids are still alive, I'm still with the hubs, got great friends, God smiles at me more than He frowns....not too shabby

*figure out a way to entertain in my home that meshes with the hubster"s 8:30pm bedtime

Yes, not a lot, but it did happen and once or twice it was spontaneous.

* sister goal: go to parties and gatherings

did a little of that too.

Well, it looks like I had more success than failure.

I am betting I evolve similarly this year. Here's a few more:

*weight.....I gotta, but me and carbs....we are one, so it will not be easy. Maybe even add a little movement to my life. I've been reading about short, full blown, bursts of exercise. I think I could do that.

*keep working on being more social.

*get a part time job I've been a stay home mom for 20+ years.....scary

*watch one child graduate high school and one graduate college (when did that happen?) and let them keep growing up, mistakes and all.

*acquire some new skills - scary skills - skills I wasn't supposed to need for a few more years. *gulp* Grandma skills and mother-in-law skills. O-M-G!

*My church bought a couple of cases of chronological bibles with a daily format and challenged us all to read the entire bible this year. Yes, there will be a test. LOL Pastor did mention that he would occasionally refer to where we should be. Evil man. :-) I accept!! but now, as a church, we have the added benefit of learning something at the same time and being able to share...with everyone...because we will be, literally, 'on the same page'. How awesome is that?!

*Being the me I am supposed to be. If I learn to listen to God better, it should happen easier than if I don't, right?

*To make a difference, the good kind. Not the kind that people remember with a sad little shake of their head kind.

I wonder what 2012 is going to surprise me with, 2011 had plenty.

Happy Happy Joy Joy

God Bless.......

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

2011-12-31T19:45:00.000-08:00

HAPPPPYYYYYYYY

NEW YEAR!!!

Say Hello to My Little Friends

2011-12-28T23:23:00.000-08:00

No, I didn't type it like I was Al Pacino in Scarface, but I did think it. LOL

Christmas brought me a few new things to love.

A new purse. This is a big step for me because I haven't changed purses since 2002.

It's red, it smells of freshly tanned leather. Did I mention it's red?

All kinds of helpful Threads articles in one handy place

A 36" curved ruler. I can't wait to design something with it!!!

Star Trek TOS Season 1.

Janeway

Santa Spock

This is just the highlight reel. LOL

Celebrating the birth of Christ with family and friends was the real gift.

The smoked turkey wasn't bad either. ;-)

What's in your highlight reel?

What Christmas Looks Like at My House

2011-12-27T11:59:00.000-08:00

First off, some homemade goodness. Everyone got to sleep on a new holiday pillowcase. Well, all the kids, my sister is not pleased she did not get one. LOL Looks like I'll be making one more.

Church and the story of Christ's birth.

Dot as a wiseman

The boy as a wisemen

Lily making herself comfy on dot's booty

sleep over!!

Good morning. Oops! The hubs hasn't put out my stocking yet.

I used Amy's this year. See Karen's Still hanging by the chimney with care?

My niece and my sister

Nephew number 2

Sister

Nephew 4

niece

sister and brother

sister and her son, nephew number 1

oops!! miss fire

my mom

Nephew 3

I didn't take as many pictures as I should've, infact, my brother took most of these.

I was busy cooking and coughing. lol I was one whupped puppy by the end of the day.

2011-12-26T22:50:00.000-08:00

It's almost time to say good bye to 2011

May the sands of time be kind to you and the tides of fortune flow more than they ebb!

I hope the holidays found you healthy, happy and loved!!

Merry Day After Christmas!!

Handmade Christmas Goodness

2011-12-24T00:02:00.000-08:00

Made especially for the potholder challenged (old joke, don't ask)
Thanks Karen, they are getting their first spots this weekend.

First off, the potholders. They are totally rockin' and I ♥ them....a lot.

Can't make a decent pair to save my life. lol Believe me, I've tried.

And then she cross stitched this happy little snowman. He proudly hangs on my tree.

How can you not smile when you see him happily juggling snowballs?

And look how fun the tissue paper is!!! And her binding skills.....par excellence.

* * shameless plug alert * *

If you want a pair, she sells them in her etsy shop. A bargain at twice the price.
She has a pair in there with retro kitchen stuff.......I just might need to get a whole 'nother set.
Thanks Karen!!!!

Possible New Obsession

2011-12-22T10:40:00.000-08:00

I've been seeing this little critters around the blogoshere and I think I want some. Nope, I'm sure I want at least one pair. What the heck am I talking about? Fingerless gloves/mittens!

I hate - HATE - being cold but you can't really do anything with gloves or mittens on, but wait! There is a solution...get rid of all the finger bulk!!

Here's a little pictorial of some I've spied.....I do prefer the ones with a little bit of thumb coverage as opposed to thumbless.

Yeppers, a nice, not overly bulky pair would suit me just fine. Mmmmmmmm, I don't knit or crochet. so it's off to etsy...unless someone wants to trade an apron or a sock money for a pair...just sayin. :-)

More on my pinterest board

I think I like the pink ones (style wise) the best...so far.

Happy winter Solstice!

2011-12-21T11:55:00.000-08:00

This cute and animated greeting for all of you!

And a greeting for my fellow geeks

Sorry I haven't posted more, winter germs bit me in the booty and I have done a whole lotta nothing for a few days. Hope to be back strong in a day or two!!

Merry Christmas!

FNSI and tutorial

2011-12-17T22:59:00.000-08:00

Well, I got a lot accomplished. I made this stocking and took all the pics for a tutorial AND I cut out all the fabric for 12, twelve, pillowcases. Alas, not much happened in the ol' sewing room today and it ALL needs to be done the 24th. lol

On to the tute!!

First, get some paper to use for your pattern. I like old desk calendar paper. It's heavy and when you buy it at the dollar store or in March, it's uber cheap!

Find a stocking shape and size you like. Or free hand a design. I am not that good. lol

I hold mine down with these 'weights'

I used green and red salsa to keep it festive. :-)

Stockings can be kinda fluffy, so hold down the fabric as you trace.

After you're done, it will look like this....don't forget to add the seam allowance.

I just cut my fabric a little wider, but having them on the pattern is better.

Does it look the way you want?

No? Trim it until it does.

Time to measure for your cuff.

See a much better tutorial here

A whole bunch of measurements for the cuff.

It will be 2 times the width plus one seam allowance

2 times the depth and 2 times the seam allowance

We'll come back to this is a bit

Cut out:

2 showy fabric

2 lining fabric

2 pieces of batting, fusible fleece or other materiel to make the stocking feel substantial.

If you use sturdy fabric or you aren't quilting it, skip it.

At this point, do any quilting or embellishing. Lay your cuff out so you know where you want stuff.

Sew right sides together. Leave the top open.

Turn the stocking side out. clip any curves if you need to.

Then put the liner in, wrong sides facing each other,

Match seams and pin into place....baste

This is the link to a cuff tutorial I did last year. It's much more thorough than this one is.

http://thedistracteddomestic.blogspot.com/2010/12/applying-cuff-to-stocking-tutorial.html

Make a loop or get some twill tape and cut it as long as you want the loop.

Mine was about 5-6" long for a 3" drop.

Pin to the inside of the stocking in the seam area on the heel side

Now, cut you fabric according to your measurements.

Fold in half..drop sides together

Sew that one seam closed

Press it open

Fold over and make it all even and pretty

Pin to the inside of the stocking. Sew. Finish the edge with a zigzag, serger or pinking shears

Pull out the cuff. I signed my creation. lol

Fold down the cuff, pull up the loop and you are good to go.

Use this as a spring board to create a masterpiece of your very own. A family heirloom even!!

Trust me, it took longer to explain that to make. LOL

Merry Christmas!!

Today I am working on:

2011-12-15T12:51:00.000-08:00

http://prommafia.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/to-do-list1.pdf

1) A stocking, complete with a tutorial. The tutorial will be for the basic stocking, a spring board, if you will, so you can make it your own. I can't show you the finished product because my swap sister may be watching. Buuuuuuut, I can have a basic one done. Maybe even two, because I will have two extra peeps Christmas morning. :-)

2) Pillowcases.....tons and tons. I finally decided that my niece and nephews will get a Christmas pillowcase, complete with a new pillow, and some $$. Where will I put this ginormous pile o' love? Your guess is as good as mine. hahahahaha

3) Banana Nut Bread. I've got 4 bananas that need to be cooked....NOW.

4) Sign up for the Friday Night Sew In. Hopefully my company comes Saturday and I can sew Friday night. Crossing my fingers

5) costco list

6) shop around for new tires....Merry Christmas to my car. LOL Good bye iPad dream...for now mwah ha ha The big 5-0 is just 1 and 3/4 months away!!!!

7) getting two packages ready for the mail. I want one to leave here tomorrow and one to leave here Saturday. I want some peeps to be happy Christmas morning, not Boxing Day. lol

8) Oh yeah, fill out a to do list.

What is on your list today?

Spice up your christmas

2011-12-12T23:06:00.000-08:00

A few more Christmas giftees d-o-n-e!

Crafty? Check

Tasty? Check

Thoughtful? Gosh, I hope so!

A little bit o' love for the men that ~~beat~~ teach my son karate.

I mixed together a batch of our infamous spice rub and added a few special

smokey, spicy and flame throwin hot goodness.

I can't tell you what's in it or I'll have to kill you. hahahahahahaha

Heck, even the hubs doesn't quite know what's in it and it's his rub.

(shhhh, I am the mix master...don't tell anyone, k)

Are you mixing up any tasty holiday goodness?

If you have a Winco or someplace that sells bulk spices, you can buy the shaker containers there for a song!

The little baggies I got at the Dollar store, but you can get them at craft and/or bead stores.

The baggies are filled with ground chipotle..you can order it online at: http://dagiftbasket.com/

They have all kinds of specialty chili items. A good selection of single chili powders too.

Sew much more to come.....

2011-12-11T21:07:00.000-08:00

First, I am:

I know, right! Ssshhhhh, don't tell my swap sister it's for her. :-)

Christmas Day is fast approaching....too fast, so what do I decide to do?

That's right....add more sewing! LOL

I am making stockings or pillowcases for my niece and nephews to hold their holiday giftee. I hope I make up my mind already. lol

I picked these fabrics.....they look great together or as pillow trim.

And, another one for the finished files.

Look out katiebug......he'll be beaming his way to your coordinates soon.

What have you piled on to your already busy schedule??

FNSI- complete

2011-12-10T16:14:00.000-08:00

This little one hour apron took me closer to three. LOL Lots of interruptions

Family, whatcha gonna do?

Going to embroider another Spock kitchen towel.

I am not that good with eyes, but I'm getting there.

Not as much done as I wanted, but stuff that is done, nonetheless.

Happy sewing!

Stocking Swap Has Arrived!

2011-12-09T13:08:00.000-08:00

Oy, Nadine is such a good maker. I hope what I send her makes her smile!

Just check out those points? Seriously, How can I compete with that? :-)

A little ruffled bag and the ginormous stocking

Back

All the goodies

And snarky Christmas tissues...... I ♥ these.

Kinda looks like me too. lol

Thanks for a great swap package, Nadine!!!!!

Don't worry, yours will be on time, promise! I just can't make up my mind about the design. :-)

Holiday Adrenaline Rush

2011-12-08T14:42:00.000-08:00

What my house needs to look like so I can finish all the Christmas projects that I have planned.
AANNNDdddddd kinda, sorta, haveta be done by the 24th.

Yes, that's right, I need to turn my home into a sweatshop for a few days. Anyone else out there in the same predicament? C'mon, I know there are a few of you/ :-)

It's beginning to look a lot more Christmas.......

2011-12-05T22:34:00.000-08:00

All around the house!

yes, yo quiero taco bell

All that's left:
find the nativity
unpack the dishes
enjoy the season!!

It's beginning to look a lot like Trek-mas..........

2011-12-01T11:04:00.000-08:00

The universe has expanded by three and goes up today!

What kind of decor says Christmas to you?

A closer look..te he he

Winner, Winner, chicken dinner!

2011-12-01T10:27:00.000-08:00

Jilly Tacy, be watching for your mailman sometime next week!!

Tonight is the deadline

2011-11-30T21:43:00.000-08:00

Get your pics into the flickr group for your Tie One On day!! I will be picking tomorrow morning!!

Finally, completely, done!

2011-11-30T21:40:00.000-08:00

The last of the nightstand got finished today...a new hole drilled for the knob. The hubs said I needed to coat the drawer sides, so I did that. Now, it's official and will be put back in my room, minutes from now!!

Before

After

I have to wait FAR too long...

2011-11-29T11:04:00.000-08:00

But then I guess I can keep the thrill of anticipation going...........

The official release date of:

EEEEeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee, I am way past ready!

Night stand d-o-n-e

2011-11-28T12:43:00.000-08:00

Well, mostly. LOL

I turned it upside-down to reattach the top and I noticed that I was not a great painter. hahaha

The whole thing

New knob

Say it with me: burnt peanut Red.ahhhhhhhhh

Touch ups are done, now I have to wait at least 24 hours before I can put the drawer back in.

Oh yeah, the before shot:

Yep, it looks so sad in green and so happy in the red!

It feels good to finish this first step in my epic bedroom makeover!!

After the holidays, I just may paint my armoire........

Next stop on the makeover....headboard.

Finished Files--mug rugs and coasters from fnsi

2011-11-26T18:00:00.000-08:00

Well, it took a little bit of time, but I finally finished the items from my Friday Night Sew In.
(check my side bar for more info)

4 tag shaped mug rugs using a modified sweetwater pattern

2 sets of Flirty Fifties Coasters

(I have enough fabric for 4 place mats too. eeeeee)

I haven't really decided what I am going to do with all of it yet. I am in a swap and I pretty sure a mug rug will be going her way. :-)

On my to-do list:
1) stocking swap
2) spock dish towel...got a request
3) got a request to make a white sock cow (that should pay for the christmas fabric I just ordered )
4) a few gift card holders
5) put up the star trek universe and other christmas decor
6) christmas shopping and menu planning (thinking smoked turkey and tri tip mmmmm)
7) christmas cards

There is probably a bunch more stuff, but this is what I am thinking about the most.

Time to get bizz-ay!

memememememememeeeee
Just hear that jing jing jingling....la la laaaaaaaaaa something, something sleigh ride together with youuuuuuu

Tie One On Day - I did it!!!

2011-11-23T23:11:00.000-08:00

Did you? I didn't know if I was supposed to be anonymous or not....so I went with anonymous. Although I have a feeling my neighbor will know it's me.

I put everything in a little bag and hung it on their door knob so the next time they open the door, it will be waiting for them.

I got such a thrill dropping and running!!!! I can honestly say that I love giving more than getting, and trust me, I love to get!!!

There is still time if you want to make a little love and drop it off.

I'm off to add my picture to the flicker group.

FYI...the winner will get an apron just like the one I gave....twinseezes!!

Two loaves of banana nut bread and a neatly folded apron.

The apron! I am loving this fabric combo!!!!

I hope they like everything!!

Details and flickr link here!!

Coming this Wednesday.................

2011-11-21T22:04:00.000-08:00

Project Tie One On Day!!!
Who's day will your brighten?!
I am working on my aprons tonight...one to give and one to give again!!!

For more information, click here.

Apron teaser:

These are the fabrics I will be using...fab, right?

A little repeat from a previous post:

I firmly believe in giving back. Who knows, some day I may be in need.
Tie One On Day fits me to a 'T'. Feeding people and making aprons are two of my most favorite activities. I am doing it again this year and I want to encourage all of you out there in blogland to do the same.

The ~~challenge~~ Encouragement:
Make or purchase an apron; wrap it around a goodie; put a little note in the package; spread some love. Easy peasy. Ooooo, I'll even feature an apron tutorial....I know just the one! :-)
Karen, Oh Karen.........

The prize: mmmmmmmmm...............
How about an apron made by yours truly? Yep, sounds like a plan!!

How to get said prize:
**Become a follower of The Distracted Domestic
**Deliver your apron o' love
**Post you giftee on the flickr group page
Post a picture of your little goodie package and a little blurb about your giftee.
http://www.flickr.com/groups/ddapronchallenge/

When?
I'll give you a few days after Thanksgiving to get your pics up; it will be a shopping, eating and family kinda weekend, right?
Sooooooooo, The first Wednesday after Thanksgiving, I (or other family member) will draw a name from a little bag. (11/30/11) Heck, maybe even two. How about one prize for every 15 people that participate? Grand prize an apron. I'll make mug rugs and little bags and gift tags....oh and yeah, let's keep me super busy with sewing people!! Tell your friends!!

Let's see how many people we can bless this holiday season....one apron at a time!!

FNSI - November with Dooney and Bourke

2011-11-19T13:30:00.000-08:00

Well, I got a lot done, but not a lot finished. LOL Maybe tonight?

I made 8 flirty 50's coasters and 4 gift tag mug rugs. Everything just needs to be turned and topped stitched.

I was going to work on them today, but the Christmas shopping bug bit me while I was taking the man/child to work. Alas, I bought only three giftees.....one for ME!! Bad me, bbbaaadddddddd (but in love) me!!

Now, picture this really, REALLY RED. Now tuck in the long strap.....

Santa hubby doesn't know his shopping is done yet.

Ahhhhhhhhhh

This is the red I am talking about .

I can't even tell you how yummy it is in person!!

I wonder if there is a matching wallet?

I purchased it pre-sale to save 25% but now I have to wait until the sale to pick it up. It's gonna be a lloonnggg 11 days, then I have to wait until Christmas day....maybe....