Sister Sue Designs

Words to Live By

2012-01-02T17:33:00.002-06:00

In the interest of honesty, I have never been so happy to see a year come to a close as I was with 2011. As we rang in 2012 yesterday, I felt a sense of joy for the year ahead and relief that the past is behind me. I have great things planned for Sister Sue Designs this year and look forward to sharing them with all of you! I came across this quote on Pinterest the other day. I have always loved it and when I think about all of the 'creative' time I spend in my studio - it seems to fit me quite well! Happy New Year friends, 2012 is going to be GREAT!

Source: 221vision.com via Wildwood Creek on Pinterest

Who am I?

2011-04-19T22:12:00.001-05:00

Oh, yeah, I have a blog!

Hmmff.

I am admittedly not good at blogging. I have vowed before that I am going to be better. But...{this time} I am really going to do it. It will come in the form of little posts, short snippets, and maybe just pictures of new creations from my studio.

There is an incentive for all of you to hold me to it. A little thank you, in the form of a coupon code to use in my Etsy shop, Sister Sue Designs. If you look to the sidebar {on the left side} there is a new little 'coupon code' box where I will host sales...just for my readers. The only thing I ask in return is that you 'follow' my blog, so we can be friends...m'kay? This code {BLOGRDR11} will save you 15% on your total purchase!

Speaking of 'following.' You will also notice that me and all my tech savvy finally figured out how to add widgets for you to easily follow Sister Sue Designs on Facebook and Twitter. But, that has used up most of my knowledge when it comes to this computer stuff.

Hmmff.

So, here is to a new beginning {let's pretend we are raising our glasses} of my blogging endevour! Let me tell you a little about me and who I am.

I love fabric. I love to sew. I love color. I love black & white. I love the unexpected. I love handmade. I love simple. I love complicated. I love the expected. I love inspiration. I love useful. I love people. I love original. I love to be original. I love twitter. I love music. I love my family. I love to love.

I am a mom. I am a wife. I am happy when I am sewing. I am in love. I am a nurse by day. I am a sewing superhero by night. I am a hard worker. I am organized. I am modern. I am free. I am inspired by my kids & their friends. I am complicated. I am simple.

I am Jen.
I am Sister Sue Designs.

Now it is your turn. Leave me a comment and tell me something about you...m'kay?

Ruffled Burps©

2010-04-15T13:58:00.000-05:00

A new idea that I just had to put into action.

Isn't it so girly!? I just love the way these turned out!

I would love to hear what you think. These are not in my shop yet, but these specific fabrics are being saved for a {VERY} special project and a {VERY} big announcement that I will share in a few weeks. Sheesh...I hate keeping secrets. It's sooooo hard, so don't tempt me, m'kay? But do leave me a comment and tell me what you think of the Ruffled Burps©

For now, forget the secret and just enjoy looking at the ruffles and thinking of who you will {NEED} to buy them for.

Oh, and there is a boy version coming {VERY} soon! And it is not ruffled, but something just at cool.

XOXO

You Capture {Quiet}

2010-03-12T16:38:00.000-06:00

Quiet eludes me these days. We have a new puppy {Moxie} and when it gets quiet, it is not good. Just like when my kids were toddlers. Quiet = trouble.

Oh, and it is Spring Break for my kids. There will be no quiet around here for awhile!

You Capture {Hopeful}

2010-03-05T20:05:00.002-06:00

My little A.J. has been {sick} this week. I had to take him in the car to pick his sister up from school and take her to piano lessons. I had a momentary {freak out} when I looked in my rear view mirror and he wasn't in his seat...or so I thought. The big 5 year old who doesn't take a nap anymore had finally succumbed to not feeling well. Doesn't he look uncomfortable? I am {HOPEFUL} that he will be back to his sweet, healthy, self soon.

Join the You Capture fun over here on Beth's blog.

You Capture

2010-02-26T12:22:00.002-06:00

Ok, so I am not a great photographer. But, I really want to be. I would even settle for good. My friend Beth {uh, huh...she's my friend} at I Should Be Folding Laundry hosts 'You Capture' every week on her blog. For the past year, I have looked at the pictures, drooled over everyone's pictures, and thought *I should participate* in that fun project.

Yeah, I said for the past year.

So, last night, my cousin (@mags1978) tweeted me and said "is @foldinglaundry someone you know? Want to do her You Capture project on my blog." Gah. If that wasn't a sign....well then I don't know what is!? My reply, you ask? "Yes! She is! If you do it, then I'll do it." Deal.

So, here it is.

The subject this week is {Shapes}. Yay! I picked an easy week to start....

This is one of my {favorite} necklaces. Love the shapes and the sentiment. Simple.

So many shapes! I just {love} buttons.

*Sigh* I just can't get enough, or have too many!

I survived my first week of You Capture! I feel such a sense of accomplishment...and {relief}. Can't wait until next week! Go ahead, play with us {don't wait a year}.

Thanks, Beth. Thanks, Mel (your turn). Mmmm' wah! to you both.

Winner!

2010-02-25T23:38:00.000-06:00

I am excited to announce the winner of the Lovey Blanket giveaway! Random.org generated the winning number.... {AND}

Amanda - {YOU WIN!!} a Turtle Bay Lovey Blanket

I will email you to find out where to send your new Lovey. Thanks so much to everyone that entered the giveaway! It is fun to have new friends and followers; I {WILL} host another giveaway soon so be sure to check back, and follow me on Twitter and join our Facebook Fan Page for special opportunities and announcements. Spring clothing designs coming {SOON}...

Thanks for playing...m'wah!

In my studio

2010-02-22T17:00:00.002-06:00

I have been longing for Spring ever since winter started. Winters in the midwest are usually hard, but this year has been {SO} hard and {SO} dreadful. Maybe it just feels that way because I am getting older and less tolerable of such things. But, it makes me smile to see Spring items showing up in the stores because it gives me hope that this awful winter will not last forever! To help me overcome my winter blues, I have started buying Spring fabrics. I don't know why, but this makes me happy. The colors and patterns make my heart leap! So, here is a peek at what I have been cutting and sewing in my studio....

For a darling little girl to run around in, check out these yummy britches.

**Sigh** I am in love with these. Don't the birds and flowers just {SCREAM} Spring? And for the wee little ones, what do you think of these?

On my cutting table is a sweet little applique to go on shirts that will match. *Pitter, patter* Did your heart skip a beat too? They should be in my shop at the end of the week for you to buy and share in my love for Spring! I have some awesome fans on my Facebook fan page that are going to test them for me. If you are not a fan yet, {RUN} over there now and sign up so you can get free stuff and awesome opportunities too!

Here are some {NEW} bibs that I have cut and will be adding to the shop soon. The colors are just {FULL} of awesomeness - but you will have to wait to see the finished products. You do not need to adjust your screen, the fabrics are right sides together so you are looking at the wrong side.

Last but not least, I am so excited to be involved with a fabulous online baby shower next month for a friend that I have only met online. Her name is Beth and she writes this awesome blog about life, love, loss and everything else. I am honored to call her my friend and can't wait to meet her beautiful boy. Her friend Steph is hosting the online baby shower over here on her blog and was nice enough to include me. Check them out, you will be jealous of my new friends...but they would probably like you too.

Love is in the air {and a giveaway}

2010-02-13T16:48:00.002-06:00

With Valentine's Day just around the corner {tomorrow}, I am feeling loving and generous! I have been sick for the past few days, but finally gave in and went to the doctor yesterday. Ah, the power of medicine. I woke up feeling better and looking forward my Valentine's date tonight with my husband. So, I thought I'd share the {LOVE} with you too.

Here's the scoop on the giveaway. Our Lovey Blankets are becoming a fast favorite from Sister Sue Designs. Since I love my customers and followers and Facebook fans, I want a Lovey Blanket to become a favorite of the little person in your life!

This blanket will be a first {LOVE} for your baby or toddler! Made to be the perfect size for a little one to carry around or take in the car or stroller. It is beautiful and snuggle soft. Some customers have said they find it the perfect size to throw over their shoulder for baby to rest their head on, or perfectly soft for a changing pad when on the go. A variety of uses....

Made of high quality 100% cotton fabrics on one side and soft ribbed Minky fabric on the other. Warm, 100% bamboo batting in the middle. Why bamboo? It is a natural, recurring resource that is absorbant, antimicrobial and breathable. Simply perfect.

Sure to be a life long favorite for your little one or the perfect gift! Measures approximately 17" x 13".

This is how the {GIVEAWAY} will work:

Mandatory Entry: Visit Sister Sue Designs and comment on the {LOVEY} you have your eye on.

Extra: must do mandatory entry to qualify!

Follow the blog - 1 extra
Suggest an item you would like to see Sister Sue Designs offer- 1 extra
Follow on Twitter @Jen_SisterSue with a link back to this post. -1 extra per day you tweet- Leave url in comment or I will delete!
FB fan (search Sister Sue Designs)-1 extra
FB Sister Sue Designs- 1 extra

This is going to be fun! Thanks in advance for the {LOVE}.

Contest Ends Feb.24, 2010 at 11:59pm Central.

Winner chosen via Random.org

Winner has 48hrs to respond to email

OPEN US ONLY Must be 18+ to enter
Leave valid email address in comment.

New year. New beginning (again).

2010-01-18T22:48:00.007-06:00

One of my New Year's resolutions is to blog MORE. Yes, you heard it here first folks - so you have to hold me to it! There were lots of times this past year that I would think about sharing an idea, or hosting a giveaway but then this little (okay, BIG) thing called {life} got in the way.

2010 is going to be a different year in our household. My baby will start kindergarten in the fall! So while this big milestone of my baby boy flying away from the nest will be met with a little sadness, it will also allow Sister Sue Designs to blossom even more! I have SO MANY ideas and designs that I have quickly sketched on scraps of paper and made note about in my studio. They are ready to come to {life} in a BIG way.

In the coming year, you can expect new products, new fabrics, original designs, some giveaways, and LOTS of growth! The past 6 months that I was A-wall from this blog were filled with becoming celebrity baby gifts, becoming a local presence in childrens boutiques, expanding to international markets (Australia, Ireland, and England), and SEWING my fingers off! So, bear with me as I embark on this new journey of blogging more. I will keep posting in 2010, as long as you promise to keep reading {and leave comments, m'kay?}....

There are lots of ways to keep up with me!

Twitter: Jen_SisterSue

Facebook: Become a fan of Sister Sue Designs on our fan page. Just search Sister Sue Designs.

And of course this blog.

I'll be back again soon {promise}....

Look! They are FINALLY in the shop!

2009-07-22T02:03:00.003-05:00

I know, I know. I keep promising to list the new dresses in the shop, and then I go and take a break from blogging that is WAY too long! Eeeeek. But, they are finally listed in the shop. So, go take a look. I have been sewing like a mad woman; 6 dresses this week!

Go look here! (please.)

Sunshine and Seashells

2009-06-05T22:27:00.002-05:00

Today, I am taking a break. A well deserved break. School is out for summer, my 2 year reign as PTA President has ended, and Sister Sue Designs is off and running after it's first year! What better time to take a vacation? Before all of our summer commitments get underway, we took off for the sunshine and seashells of Sanibel Island, FL. If you've never been here, you must visit soon.

Our family loves this place. It has a wonderful "small town" feel. There is no McDonalds, you support the local economy dining at wonderful family owned eateries and shopping at lovely local shops. There are more seashells on the white sand beaches than I can begin to describe. Really, it's heaven.

When I return home, Sister Sue Designs will debut at a very unique shop. It is Emily's flowers in Leawood, KS. Not just any flower shop. Emily is so talented and her flower designs are truly a piece of art! She carries other gifts in her shop; all very unique and lots of small business owners. Some of our items will carry over next door to Trendz Market, also a unique shopping experience. So, if you are local; go shop there. But not 'til next week, when my stuff arrives! OK?

Please.

and thank you.

Last, but not least, the Shelbie Sundress and Modern Megan Frock will be listed in the shop. Finally. Just wanted to wait until I returned from vacation; as I have high hopes that I will be busy making lots of these dresses!! So, spread the word....

Perfect pair

2009-05-26T00:49:00.002-05:00

Today, I had a nice overcast day to shoot some pictures of more Shelbie Sundresses. When I look at this picture, it's as if I almost see two little girls with their arms around each other. The perfect pair. They just look so happy together, hanging there in the late spring breeze.

More to sew. Can't wait to launch them in the shop.

The face behind the name....

2009-05-25T00:53:00.002-05:00

Meet Shelbie, the face behind the Shelbie Sundress. Isn't she a doll?! She is wearing one of the sundresses that I have been BUSY sewing these days. This prototype happens to be a tad long on her, but I have seen her in it in person - she's yummy in it. In later edits of the dress, I have shortened it up to be a few inches below the knee. More of a "tea length" sundress.

For those of you who have inquired, the dress is coming soon! Keep checking back for more cute clothes in the works...

Sew much to do.

2009-05-04T19:21:00.004-05:00

Ok, so I have had one of the best days ever. Really. It all started when I dropped my son off at preschool this morning, with test dress #2 for a classmate's little sister. It is the same design as the dress pictured here, but in glorious pink fabrics by Amy Butler and Anna Maria Horner. My friend Amie was so excited, she immediately dressed little Shelbie - and it was SO CUTE. I had 3 people ask to order dresses. I haven't even listed them in the shop yet! Can you feel me *smiling*?

The blue dress is being tested and modeled by Jamaya, my other friend (and amazing hairdresser) Amy's beautiful daughter. Wow. Look at that pout. She is destined for the runway! This dress is going to be great for spring and summer. It is elastic around the chest, with adjustable straps that tie in a bow in back. Complete with ruffle at the bottom for that added "girly" touch.

The other exciting pieces of news fit nicely together! Today, I met with a local retailer about selling Sister Sue Design items in her shop - and she loved my stuff! *Sigh* Sometimes I feel so lucky. Our goal is to have inventory in the store June 1. Anyway, the Kansas City Star Magazine had contacted me about featuring Sister Sue in an article once I had a local presence. SO, guess what?! We're going to be in the paper! Not sure when, but I'll keep you posted.

Ahhh....I'm *smiling* again.

Let me know what you think of the dress. I'm hoping to get a few more done this week and posted in my shop. I'm off to sew....

A place to lay your head

2009-04-27T17:11:00.003-05:00

I feel as though I am always looking for a unique and different gift idea for my kids to give at birthday parties. One of our all time favorites is to give a pillowcase. Not your run of the mill, plain jane pillowcase - but a KIDcase PILLOWcase from Sister Sue Designs! Kids LOVE them because they are bright and fun; parents LOVE them because it is a practical gift with a twist! We generally give them paired with a book, so kids can kick back and relax. I LOVE to give books, as we are big readers at our house!

There are so many occasions you could gift a KIDcase PILLOWcase! Celebrate birthdays, accomplishments, vacations, sleepovers, transition to a "big bed" or make a hospital stay special and memorable. I am sure you can think of other great ways to give one! Boys and girls alike love to receive them. This weekend, I made 7 of them to fill local orders! Whew! Happy moms everywhere as kids want to chill out and read a book - maybe they will sneak in a nap too! Always good when the kids want to LAY DOWN and be quiet; or look forward to going to bed.

So, try one - your kids will LOVE them!

Hollywood, here we come...

2009-04-19T21:49:00.002-05:00

I received this photo today from Style Cafe Moms that our Original Diaper Tote and Cloth Play Blocks have been packaged into the gift basket for Rebecca Romijn's twins! Can you spot the Sister Sue items? I feel like they got such a prominent place, smack in the middle of the picture! They also included a press release that will be sent out as well.
I am so excited, and can't wait to hear any feedback they receive from Rebecca and Jerry. Coming up next should be the photo and press release for Gwen Stefani's swag for her son Zuma. Oh, I am smiling! ....movie stars, swimming pools....

Sweet mother of mine...

2009-04-05T22:13:00.003-05:00

Today is my mom's 61st birthday. Happy Birthday, mom! I am so grateful to my mom for more things than I could ever list here. But, without her, I would not have learned to sew; nor would I have started Sister Sue Designs. She is my best friend, my rock and support, and one of the most beautiful people I know - inside and out! I can only hope that I have enough of her genes, to age as gracefully as she has!

My daughter and I made this sweet pincushion for her birthday. Isn't it just yummy looking?! A very easy pattern by Cindy Taylor Oates. I highly recommend making these for anyone who loves to sew.

Happy Birthday, mom! Here's to many more cupcakes....

Houston, we have a problem...

2009-03-31T16:43:00.003-05:00

Just to "keep it real" following my post that introduced all of you to my work space. I promised you it doesn't always look that clean. I didn't lie.

As you can see, my son's "space guys and space monkeys" have landed in my studio. Not to be outdone, my daughter's horse stable has also set up camp. It is starting to feel smaller in my studio as the toys migrate to where I am. *Sigh*

I tell myself to step over the horses and astronauts, and remember that before I know it the toys won't be there. Before I know it, my kids will be grown and I will long for them to play in my studio. I will want to step over their toys and not just my own mess.

So, really, it isn't always clean. *Laugh* The funny thing is that I seem to thrive in clutter! I was so productive this weekend as I worked around the toy obstacle.

Like I said, just keeping it real.

New look

2009-03-27T22:03:00.006-05:00

I am so excited to unveil my "new look" to all of you! As my business has grown over the past year, it was time for my image to grow also. Maybe "grow up" is a better way to say it. In the beginning of Sister Sue, I loved the flower. But it was time to lose it and find my own identity. My good friend Beth, at Ruby & Roja, designed my new Sister Sue logo (she also designed my blog. Love it. Keepin' the flower here). Don't you love the font that looks like I sewed it? *Sigh* Love at first sight.

Next step was to take my new logo to my local MO girl, Julie, of Stockwell Designs. Folks, she does incredible work! Just look at it, that is my business card! So, for all of my Etsy friends looking for help with their look, she's your magician. I told her thoughts I had and what I definitely didn't want; and she made it very difficult to narrow down my options! She is the Art Director, Creative Designs at a big company; but is spinning up her own company on the side. She doesn't have her own website yet, but if you are interested in her contact info, let me know. She also designed awesome stickers, tags, and letterhead. I have letterhead! So, someone request that I send you and letter, m'kay? Then order something from my shop, so that I can send you something with a sticker on the box and a lovely new tag. I love stickers. Guess I'll eternally be a 6 yr. old sticker collector.

So, go now and check out the new look at my shop (Julie designed my banner too)! Go. Now. Please....

Isn't it divine? *Sigh. LOVE.

Sister Sue Studio - Part 2

2009-03-19T21:58:00.002-05:00

So, on the last post, I realized I posted my pictures backwards from how I planned for you to see them! I guess you walked backwards through my studio. Ha, Ha!

I also couldn't post all of the pictures I planned to show. That's why there's a part 2. Out of my ignorance of Blogger.

One of the other best things about the space is the closet. It's....well, GIANT. At our last home, I had all of my fabrics stored in plastic storage bins. Now, they are folded neatly (for now) on lovely shelves; where I can see ALL of them.

You may be thinking how amazingly clean and organized the studio looks right now. But, alas, I cleaned and put everything in it's place for the pictures. Anyone who knows me will agree that it won't stay this pristine for long. Creativity thrives in clutter - in my opinion!

And the last picture turned out dark because when I look out of my studio on a beautiful day, I can see the sunshine in the backyard. I love that.

Come on in...

2009-03-19T21:22:00.003-05:00

I always think it's fun and interesting to see where people live, and work, and play. I thought it might be interesting to you to see my new studio!

Back in September, we moved to a new home. I love it. We have lived in several homes since we've been married (14 years), but they've always had a "time limit" of sorts. The "first house" when we got married was a "fixer upper" and we got our fill of fixin'. Then the "grown up" house in Colorado that reminded us of the one's we grew up in. It was 4 bedrooms, two stories; the one we planned to start our family in - and did. Then was the "transfer - brand new home" back to Kansas - unexpectedly, due to my husband's promotion. That's when we decided a brand new house that was quickly finished; required a lot of fixin' too! But it was our "10 year plan"; great neighborhood, close to schools and everything else. Our son was born while we lived in this home. But, we gradually neared 10 years (without realizing it) and slowly outgrew the space.

This summer we happened upon this house and instantly knew it would be our next home. This is "the one." This is the house we will raise our children in, they will grow up here and bring their friends here. We will grow old here.

All along our plan was to finish the basement and give me the studio I always wanted. My own space. I am a lucky girl. The construction was finished in November, but my studio continues to "evolve". I tried to do my homework and really make sure the bones of the space were work friendly to me and that everything flows. Most everything is unpacked. I am still working on the "stuff" and decorating it exactly how I want it. But it's fun to have my own area that is everything I love. It is LOVE.

Everything has a place in my studio. I love that. It is right in my basement! All I have to do is "go downstairs" and BAM, I'm at work. I love that. I just bought the chair at my writing/laptop desk; it is green! I love that. It's from here, and I love this store. Last, but not least are all of the little things on my shelves above the work stations. Birds. I love birds!

I gotta go to work. I love that.

Mailed Away

2009-03-07T17:38:00.002-06:00

Today is a big day for Sister Sue Designs! I shipped the Original Diaper Totes and Cloth Play Blocks for the celebrity gift baskets they will be a part of. I promised to share pictures with you of my final fabric choices - so here they are!

For little Zuma (Gwen Stefani's son), I chose red, black and gold as my color palette. I love these fabrics together and I hope they love them as well. I named this color combination "Rock On" in their honor and will list it in my Etsy shop for sale.

Dolly and Charlie (Rebecca Romajin's twin daughters) will receive the Blue Daisy color combination. I think it is so femanine, happy and really screams "SPRING." This colorway is currently available in my shop. Blue Daisies + baby girls = LOVE.

I look forward to hearing feedback from Style Cafe Moms. They will photograph my items in the basket before it is sent and send me any correspondence they receive. I will be sure to share with you!

Growing up

2009-03-03T19:27:00.008-06:00

It is hard to believe that Sister Sue Designs has been open for almost a year! As that happens, it means my "customers" are growing up. All of those precious babies that needed burp cloths and booties are now needing bigger bibs and cloth play blocks. My original bib design fits 0-9 months, which presents a problem for all of these little darlings.

I am proud to introduce the new "toddler bib." Designed for 9+ months, it has some of the great things you love about Sister Sue and lots of new features. The toddler bib is still reversible with a resin snap; no scratchy velcro to tire out! It is also still made from 100% cotton fabrics, that continue to be fun and stylish. A great new feature of the toddler bib is the bamboo core. Bamboo is the "new cotton" these days, and growing in popularity for organic trends. It is naturally more absorbant than cotton, smooth, breathable and naturally antibacterial. So, it's a great fit for toddlers!

As for the toddler bib style, you'll notice that it has changed too. Instead of wrestling your toddler to get the bib fastened behind their neck, this one easily and quickly snaps at their shoulder.

Sister Sue Designs will continue to "grow up" and expand to fit the toddler world; while keeping stylish, original designs for the new siblings that will soon join many of these lovely families!

Blue and Whimsy

2009-03-03T19:16:00.002-06:00

I've decided I'm done with winter! DONE, DONE, DONE. Do you hear me? I am ready for spring flowers, green, kids playing outside, and the sun.

But, since I can't change the weather (although my 4 yr old says he can make a "weather changer machine"), I will have to settle for creating with new spring fabrics. These new items that I just posted in my store scream SPRING to me. The colors, flowers and darling birds are just what I need to lift my spirits on a 30 degree day.

I hope you enjoy them as much as I do - I don't think they will stick around for long!

Celebrity Baby Gear

2009-02-06T22:44:00.003-06:00

I am SO excited to announce that Sister Sue Designs has been invited to participate in celebrity gift giving hosted by Style Cafe Moms. Our Diaper Tote and Cloth Play Blocks will be included in baskets for Gwen Stefani's new baby boy, Zumma and Rebecca Romijn's twin girls, Dolly and Charlie.

WOW! How cool is that?

I am so excited to be included in this unique and amazing opportunity! Now comes the question - what is the perfect fabric for these trendy babies? I want the stuff to get noticed, so I am going to have to do my homework and figure out what will fit with their mom's style. If you have any ideas, I'd love to hear them. I will keep you posted on what I select!

An Amazing Day

2009-01-20T23:53:00.002-06:00

Change has come to America, and if you ask me, it's about freakin' time! It was so awesome to watch the inauguration today and see our nation unite. My 3 year old watched with me and I asked him who "that guy" is; he said "it's Barack Obama, mom! Duh!" So, I asked him, "why are so many people there to watch him?" My son's response, "because he won somethin'." Simply stated, and I agreed. My 9 year old daughter witnessed it at school and she said, "it was cool." She said she was glad she wasn't there; "too many people! Think of the lines at the bathroom..." Ahhh, that's my girl. None the less, history made. We are looking forward to the next 4 years.

Blown Away

2008-12-29T17:59:00.003-06:00

At 4:32 AM on Saturday morning, I woke up to the LOUDEST sound I have ever heard. Now, having grown up in Kansas and living here off and on most of my life; I'm no stranger to severe weather and have spent time waiting out tornado watches/warnings in the basement. But, on Saturday morning - I heard THAT sound. The 'freight train' sound tornado survivors talk about. OMG it is LOUD, and I swear it went right over my house! I bolted out of bed and led the kids to the basement. Thank goodness, it was so dark out behind our house that I could not see what was happening. But I could hear it. After about 20 minutes, we returned upstairs and the sound was gone. I got back into bed, but couldn't stop my heart from racing. As the sun came up, we saw the destruction. We have a tile roof (concrete tiles, y' all) and there were a couple tiles in the grass. The glass patio table was shattered, the swingset overturned and launched in to the wooded area behind us, the screens on our beautiful screened deck blown out, outdoor furniture thrown into the rod iron fence like dollhouse furniture; arrghhghhh.... it goes on. The important thing is that we are safe. It is all fixable, just a pain to go through the process. After all, this is a NEW house and we thought our contractor days were over! So, Toto, I guess we ARE in Kansas!

Giveaway WINNERS!!

2008-12-08T21:45:00.002-06:00

I am so excited to announce the winners of my first Sister Sue Designs giveaway! Thank you to those of you that participated, I wish all of you could be winners! But, I let Random.org pick 2 winners of brand new diaper totes; and they are....

1. Jayme

2. Kama

So ladies, check your email so you can claim your prize! I hope all of you will continue to follow my blog. I plan to do more fun giveaways that I create for Sister Sue and some tutorials so that you can create your own wonderful items! Next giveaway, Sister Sue Cloth Play Blocks - stay tuned for a date....

Sister Sue Giveaway EXTENDED!!

2008-12-07T20:51:00.003-06:00

Okay, it's the holidays and I'm feeling generous today! Therefor, I've decided to not only extend the giveaway 24 more hours - but I am also going to pick TWO winners! This has been lots of fun and I have met some great new blog friends, so what the heck! Tell all of your friends about Sister Sue and remember if you blog about the giveaway on your blog and send me the link in a comment; you get TWO entries! The contest will end December 8 at 9 P.M. CST.

A New Holiday Tradition

2008-12-05T20:38:00.004-06:00

I stumbled upon this VERY cute tradition that I WILL be adding to our family this season. One of the blogs I follow regularly is Brassy Apple and Megan shared this in her post today:

"Allow me to introduce, Mr. Peeps. No, this isn't a creepy little elf "peeping" in your window (wink, wink). It's a fun new family Holiday Tradition! Bare with me here. I promise you'll love it! Mr. Peeps is an elf sent from Santa's workshop to watch if your kids are "Naughty" or "Nice". He arrives with a poem soon after Thanksgiving and goes home with Santa on Christmas Eve. He was a instant HIT at our house last year! Here is the poem that goes along with him:

Christmas is approaching, and this is the day

Santa has sent Mr. Peeps to your house to stay.

He send this small elf to your house and mine.

Soon after Thanksgiving, He must be on time.

Mr. Peeps has a purpose. His purpose will be,

To whisper to Santa all the good that he sees.

Soon after he gets here, he moves only at night

To high places, low places, he stays in plain sight.

In the kitchen, for instance, he sits high on a shelf.

Mr. Peeps can sit anywhere, for he is an elf.

He holds very still when he thinks you are watching.

His magic is precious, it fades with on touching.

He sits on the tree on Christmas Eve day.

He knows that Santa is soon on his way.

He waits and he waits without making a noise.

He waits until Santa arrives with the toys.

So you better be nice and mind what you say

Because Mr. Peeps will tell Santa when he comes with his sleigh.

Once Christmas is here and Santa has come,

Mr. Peeps must leave, for his job is well done.

But, he will return next year on the very same day,

To watch your behavior as you work and play.

- Sharon Reynolds

Isn't that fun?? A great way to help your kids be good this season. So pop on over to your local $1.00 store and see if they have any "elves" or pop onto Etsy and pick up a great handmade one or a kit to make one yourself!"

I LOVE this and will be starting it this weekend! Any help keeping the kids 'nice' and not 'naughty' is always welcome!

Sister Sue Designs GIVEAWAY!

2008-12-03T23:16:00.004-06:00

Yes folks, you read it right. I am hosting my first official Sister Sue Designs Giveaway! In honor of having my Etsy shop chosen by rossiessweetpeas to be featured in the EtsyKids Holiday Trunk Show tomorrow evening, I want to share with all of you!

The Sister Sue Diaper Tote has been a popular item and the subject of several review blogs as of late, so I'm giving it away! The diaper tote is a great way to carry several diapers and wipes (hard travel case or soft travel pack), with room to spare for hand sanatizer or a small tube of diaper cream. One reviewer said she fit 6 diapers plus wipes into hers! Whether you like to keep your diaper bag organized and diapers neat or just want to keep this handy (in your purse, glove box or stroller) for quick changes - they are handy!

So, how do you win?! Well, I happen to have several of these totes made up and ready to ship! If you could win, would you keep it for yourself? Give it as a gift? or want more than one?

Here's what you need to do to win. Head on over to my ETSY shop (click the link to the right) and then come back here and tell me, in a comment, which diaper tote you like the best. That's it, then you are entered. The winner will be chosen at random. Comments will close December 7 at 9 P.M. CST. Open to U.S. residents only.

Want to increase your chances at winning one of these lovelies? OK, I'm all about giving you more! Just write about this contest on your own blog and you'll be given an extra entry. But, in a seperate comment, you have to tell me you did this and post a link to it! Or, if you don't have a blog; simply watch the EtsyKids Holiday Trunk Show tomorrow night and send me a comment about another great shop that was featured.

This is so much fun! It's always better to give than to receive :) Be sure to log onto ETSY.com and visit the Virtual Labs on December 4 at 8 P.M. Eastern time to see my shop featured on the EtsyKids Holiday Trunk Show Debut!

A loss

2008-12-03T23:08:00.003-06:00

Hard to believe, but just since Monday, I have lost 1 pound! Yep. I weighed in for the Sisterhood of the Shrinking Jeans this morning (Wednesdays are our "official" weigh in) and was pleasantly surprised. I had already prepared myself NOT to be disappointed if there was no change. But instead, I smiled and felt a little more confidence that I can do this! So, my official weight today is 167.5 lbs. Yeah!

The Challenge Begins...

2008-12-01T14:52:00.002-06:00

When I woke up this morning, I knew it was December 1st. The beginning (again) of my weight loss commitment. I have been thinking about it during the Thanksgiving break, and I am ready. Before hitting the shower, I weighed in for the first time in a LONG time. Not as bad as I anticipated, but still nothing to be proud of....168.5 lbs. My goal is 150. That is the weight I was PRE-children. I think it is reasonable...

Wish me luck!

They picked ME! Well, Sister Sue....

2008-12-01T13:52:00.002-06:00

Today is shaping up to be a great day for Sister Sue Designs! I received a conversation in my Etsy mail today (this is totally unsolicited) here's what it said....

"Guess who is blogged on my blog page and we are sharing your shop on our Trunk debut on DEC.4 at 8PM...you of course. Please check out our link to your shop and stop by Dec 4 if you can...."

Really?! Wow!? So, I checked out rozzissweetpeas blog and it said this:

"After a lot of grunt work and lots of email, typing our fingers to the bone and working til way past midnite, we are down to the last few days. This is going to be so much fun, just a few minutes out of your time and you can sit back and meet in the ETSY VIRTUAL LAB WITH me and some other really nifty crafters. It's like sitting down with the CEO of Target or Walmart and they will show you all the stuff they are excited about.

We will be sharing with another ETSYKIDS shop to show off them too, we have picked this darling shop (http://sistersuedesigns.etsy.com) to show off."

So, in case you are wondering - YES! This is a BIG deal. Other indie crafters and Etsy shoppers will be checking out my shop and (hopefully) buying too. This is part of the ETSYKIDS Trunk Show on December 4th. I am honored that they want to share my shop and talk about the things I create.

As a thank you to my readers and customers....I am going to host a SISTER SUE GIVEAWAY. So, check back for the details and be sure to shop handmade this holiday season!

Steps in the right direction....many steps

2008-11-26T21:44:00.004-06:00

Wow! I am a lucky girl. I think. Look at what my husband bought for us today! A brand new, shiny elliptical machine - minus the skinny chick. I will never look like this ab ripped young(er) lady. But, we are both dedicated to losing weight and this is just what we need to do it! No excuses. It will be right here, in our house. It will be delivered on Sunday and we are starting our NEW healthier lifestyle on Monday 12/1/08. Construction just finished in our basement and this lovely new member of our family will be parked right in the EXERCISE ROOM. Yep. We now have an exercise room. I am going to be steppin' my way to a thinner me for 2009.

But, for today, I am looking forward to spending the Thanksgiving Holiday with my family. I am going to control portion size, but enjoy it all! Because Monday is the start of a new me....

Happy Thanksgiving! I am thankful for all of you.

Join the Challenge

2008-11-24T21:42:00.004-06:00

I have decided that I need to lose some weight. This is no secret. Little by little, I have gained a few here and there. Since turning 35 this year, the newly added pounds are distributing themselves in some not so pretty places (*read: arm and back fat, eeewww*). My current weight is probably the heaviest I have been NOT post pregnancy. So, there's no excuse. I just love food.

Last night I had the conversation with my husband that "I am not happy with the way I look" and "I have to do something about it"; you know the drill. I must say he did reply, "I still like the way you look" ahhh, isn't he sweet?! Then today my friend Beth unveiled her new blog! PERFECT! It is called The Sisterhood of the Shrinking Jeans. It's like it is meant to be....

You have to check out this blog, I have every confidence that it is going to work for me! Look to the right side bar and click on her button to visit! She and some friends are going to host weight loss challenges, post recipes, blog about their weight loss and hold us accountable for losing weight. Amazing, I never knew weight loss could be so fun.

So, join me as I embark on this journey. I am going to blog about it here (for now) and on her site as I support my fellow sisters in their weight loss journey!

Now I'm going to go eat.....an apple :)

Recycled Buzz

2008-11-14T16:58:00.003-06:00

Today it is a cold, windy day with a touch of drizzle to really hammer home the idea that it is November. Megan is home sick from school. And it just looks dreary outside. A.J. came downstairs this afternoon and wanted to know if he could wear his Halloween costume again. Sure, why not? That is why moms toil and stress over finding just the right costume - even though the kids change their minds 12 times before Halloween. Right? And why I go to the Disney Store and pay double what I would at a discount store! Well, here he is in all of his glory! What's with the mouse ears, you ask? Hmmm...not sure. We picked up those lovelies at Disneyland this summer. In his defense, they do have a glow in the dark Buzz patch with Buzz Lightyear green (glow in the dark) ears! So they match, or at least he thinks so! Our little Buzz is going to be around for a long time.....bought it big.

Blockhead

2008-10-28T22:23:00.002-05:00

Just finished the block order for Mudd Kids in Australia! I feel like everything looks square these days, as this order was for 8 sets of 3 blocks per set....that's 24 blocks! No wonder I feel like a blockhead. I love the way all of these fabrics "gel" together and appear so vivid. Hopefully the babies will love them too! Thanks Mudd Kids...

Brotherly love

2008-10-22T10:43:00.002-05:00

Busy, busy....

2008-10-22T10:25:00.002-05:00

As you can see, things have been crazy around here! We moved into our new home a month ago and I am tired. Unpacking seems to be never ending.I think the boxes reproduce while I am sleeping and greet me in the morning. I will be thrilled if I never see another cardboard box again! But, when all of the complaining is done - I LOVE our new home! There is not anything about it I wish to be different. It is perfect. In about 10 days, our basement will be finished and my new sewing studio will be DONE! I designed it myself and can't wait to move in and unpack those boxes. Did I just admit to looking forward to more unpacking? Maybe I am going crazy :)

I also have 'almost' completed a very large order that partially shipped to Blue Bird & Co. in Chattanooga, TN. An upscale baby studio that will carry Sister Sue items. Take a look at some of the fun items; I am so proud of this stuff. It has been quite a challenge to be displaced and have stuff here, there and everywhere!

Enjoy the pics. Gotta sew (and unpack)....

They grow up so fast.....

2008-09-03T16:12:00.006-05:00

Today was A.J.'s first day of preschool. Wow, where does the time go? I remember walking through the halls of this preschool with my (almost) 9 year old, Megan - pregnant with A.J.! I didn't think it would bother me to send him off this morning, I was not going to be like those first time moms that cry when her youngest leaves the nest. But, I must admit that my eyes welled up when I saw him proudly pose at the front door with his new backpack. (Sigh) They really grow up fast.....

What have I been up to?

2008-09-03T15:52:00.002-05:00

I am sure you have been wondering what I have been up to and thinking that I have fallen off the face of the earth. But, alas, I am still here! I have had the most incredibly (is that correct english?)busy summer....EVER! I will not bore you with all of the details, but it was filled with lots of travel, the death of my grandmother, busy kid schedules, more travel and the explosive growth of my business!! I am excited to unveil my new blog make over & logo redesign by Ruby & Roja....aren't we pretty now! I must say that working with Beth over at Ruby & Roja is one of the best experiences I have had through the growth of my new business. I highly recommend her and her team! Scroll down the right side of my blog and click on their icon to check them out!

My second great experience is these awesome professional photos that my friend Angela Epperson took of my diaper totes! I met her through my cousin (thanks Melissa!) and she takes awesome photos! We are going to work together to photograph more items, as they are finished! Contact me if you are interested in her information....I love to share!

Last but not least; I have sewn and sewn 'til I can't sew no more!! OK, not really - I would never give up sewing. I have LOTS of new fabrics not yet available on my site. I am finishing an order that will ship SOON to Blue Bird & Co. in Tennessee. I have another order that will be shipped to MUDD 4 Kids in Australia, and Sister Sue is now available locally in Downtown Overland Park, KS at Park Place Gifts.

Sew, as you can see; I have had no time to blog!! But I'm back and committing to regular blog posts!

The Finale....

2008-06-11T00:55:00.000-05:00

Some cool pics of Union Station and the firework finale.

Celebration at the Station

2008-06-11T00:42:00.000-05:00

Okay, so I know that Memorial Day has passed; but those who know me are aware that it takes me awhile to get through my pictures! So, these pictures are from an event we attended this year, on Memorial Day, called Celebration at the Station. It is held at Union Station in Kansas City, in front of the Liberty Memorial (also home to the only WWI memorial and museum). The Kansas City Symphony plays patriotic songs and veterans are honored. The kids LOVED it! At the end of the evening, there was a 45 minute fireworks display with the Memorial in the background. Truly awesome! Over 40,000 people attended and it grows each year. I am so happy that my kids appreciate many types of music and get excited to see/hear the symphony play! It was a very "moving" evening....

Second Apron Finished!

2008-06-10T23:36:00.000-05:00

The second apron swap I signed up for is from a blog I follow called "A Feathered Nest." The theme for this swap is also summer and the apron must have a pocket and some embellishment. I chose to use fun black, white and red fabrics because the gal I am swapping with talks on her blog about how she LOVES black and white! Perfect! Then I added a pocket and several different trims; ric rack, velvet ribbon, etc. This was fun and I hope "Shelli" in Utah loves it!

Fabulous new fabric finds....

2008-06-06T23:39:00.000-05:00

Today, I traveled to Lawrence, KS to visit my FAVORITE fabric store - Sarah's Fabrics. It is a sizable, but quaint store in the middle of a college town (home to the KU Jayhawks). But, her selection of fabrics is AMAZING! She carries a lot of my favorite designers; Alexander Henry, Michael Miller, Anna Maria Horner, and SO many more. Today, my favorite finds were "boy" fabrics. They seem to be harder to find, as so many fabrics are pretty and flowery or too "cheesy" boy stuff! Today, I found some cool fabric finds - just ask my 3 year old, he thinks they are all for him! Some trendy "flames", cool construction stuff, stripes, frogs, and western ....
I plan to work this weekend, as the orders are coming in at a steady pace! Hopefully, I will have some new items to post and sell in my Etsy shop.

We are on the web!!!

2008-06-05T10:16:00.000-05:00

Check it out! My stuff has made it onto the web!! About a month ago, I received an email from the editor of Mama Speaks asking if they could review my cloth play blocks. Apparently, one of my customers had referred my blocks to them. Of course my response was, "YES, PLEASE!" Such a happy and glorifying moment right now.....

Check them out at http://www.mamaspeaks.com/

Sassy Apron Swap

2008-06-02T23:42:00.000-05:00

On Saturday, I mailed the apron that I made for the Sassy Apron Swap that I joined. The theme was "summer" and I am just thrilled with the way mine turned out! I used a bold daisy print with a yummy polka dot contrast fabric. The pattern was by Indigo Junction and turned out so "retro." Jamie said, "It looks very June Cleaver." I guess in many ways he's right - but why not be stylish if you HAVE to cook?!
My swap partner is in Australia and her blog is called Betty in the Kitchen (listed under my favorites to the right). Can't wait to hear if she likes it! I also can't wait to see what apron I receive!

FINALLY!!

2008-06-02T23:18:00.000-05:00

I finally took the time to start a blog! I have been wanting to do it, and drooling over so many others that I follow; but have not had the time or confidence to try! Well, look at me....I did this all by myself! It may not be perfect, but I am sure there is a learning curve.....so bear with me!