Pattern Review: Heidi and Finn Chic Cocktail Swing Coat Pattern

Please excuse the poor quality of this photo but I can't find my camera charger so I had to take this picture with my phone.

Pattern: Chic Cocktail Swing Coat by Heidi and Finn

Size: It came with 12months - 5T. I made the 12months.

Skill level: I would say it was beginner/intermediate level.

Was the pattern easy to follow: It was extremely easy. I am pleased to say the organization of the pdf was superb. One thing in particular that I was pleased about was the page in the pdf that showed you how to piece together the pattern once you print it. It made things very easy.

Did you make any alterations to the pattern: Yes! The original pattern has a bow tie closure on the outside of the coat. As much as I love bows I thought two big buttons would be neater, cuter and more practical for my 13 month old.

What fabric did you use: I used a black medium weight slightly stretchy cotton fabric for the outer and a pink cotton for the lining.

Did your finished product look like the original design: For the most part yes! The only difference was I didn't add the bow tie closure.

What did you dislike about the pattern: My only complaint would be that it's too big for my daughter. The arms are quite long. But it looks pretty stylish with the arms rolled up anyway.

Would you make this again: Of course! I've been searching my house looking for more fabric to make another one.

Jacket for Kelis

I have always been a lover of hats and jackets. These are two things that has been on my sewing to-do list for years...even before I knew how to sew. Today I made my first step to getting it done and I ordered a jacket pattern from Heidi and Finn. I'm not even sure if I have enough fabric but at least I will always have the pattern around.

I'm excited to make a jacket for Kelis. I think this might be my biggest project yet. I'll do my darndest to keep this blog updated with my progress.

Kelli: Learning Sign Language

I've been teaching Kelis sign language. She knows "more", "food", "all done" and "kiss". Here's the cutest little video of her signing.

MMMM: Pomander

Here is a how to video on one of the decorations that I plan on using for my daughter's first birthday shindig - pomander aka kissing ball. I used the colors of Foofa from Yo Gabba Gabba. I am pretty pleased with the outcome.

Kelli: First Birthday Ideas

With Kelis' first birthday quickly approaching I've been thinking of something I can do for her birthday. I decided I won't throw her a birthday party considering she'll probably just sleep right through it. I would like to take her to sesame place and invite one or two other families. I'm not sure yet but I do know that I want to take nice photos of her. Rather than having her wear a birthday hat, I was thinking about making mini top hats. I did a quick Google search and found some absolutely fantastic hats for sale. Before I purchased any I wanted to see if I could make them myself (I would make everything myself if I could).

I whipped this silly hat up in about 5 minutes, literally. I used some scrap fabric, paper, Elmers glue and a random headband that I bought for Kelis months ago. I did not try to be neat at all. I just wanted to see if it was something that I should go out and purchase supplies to make or if I should simply purchase ready made ones.

It definitely wasn't hard to make but I'm still not convinced that I want to purchase all of the supplies for the style of hat that I have in mind.

MMMM: Romper

I recently drafted my very own pattern for a romper for Kelis. I've always wanted one of my own but for some reason I haven't gotten around to purchasing it. Anyhow here it is...

Those were the best photos I could get at the time. She was just not in the photo taking mood.

One thing that I plan on changing about the romper is the height of the back shorts. I want it to be about an inch higher because sometimes the top of her pamper shows. If anyone is interested in seeing a post about the pattern please comment and let me know. I'll be happy to share.

I'm Back

I made a decision to stop writing on this blog (even though I just started) but I realized how stress relieving it was for me. SO I'M BACK

Kelis has been doing all sorts of awesome things.
She's pulling herself up by using any stable object in her path.
She's walking and holding onto things.
Her two bottom teeth is finally out!
She's giving kisses (I just love her kisses).

Those are all I can recall right now but I'm sure I'm missing stuff.

MMMM: Collage

I try to take pictures of Kelis with my slr camera a few times a month. In the back of my mind I knew that when she turned 1 that I wanted to make some kind of collage showcasing her growth. With Father's Day approaching I wanted to speed it up. Here's what I've been working on....
I'm showing you all because I know her dad won't be looking around on this blog.

It isn't done by any means, but I wanted to share just in case someone is looking for something to make for Father's Day. I'm making it using Photoshop. It's 8x10.

Kelli: She likes

This morning when Kelis and I woke up, I took her in the bathroom to wash her face and she instantly went to look for the toilet. It made me giggle because she just loves to see the toilet flush. I decided then that I would make a list of 8 things (because she's 8 months) that makes Kelis happy.

1. Momma
2. Her reflection (Boy oh boy does she get excited about her reflection)
3. Daddy
4. Her pacifier
5. A Blackberry (cell phone)
6. Tissues (she likes to rip them into pieces and chew it like bubble gum)
7. Food
8. Comb (It's the only thing that will keep her occupied while I'm braiding her hair)

I really had to debate about number 8. Cords came in really close. She likes pull and eat any cord she sees: the computer cord, cell phone chargers, headphones.....whatever

Product Review: Elmo Tiny Steps 2-in-1 Walker

Kelis has just about two of everything. This time it's a walker. I already did a product review for her first walker. Here goes for her second....

Elmo Tiny Steps 2-in-1 Walker

The price was $39.99. I guess that's not too bad. I was not happy about the color scheme.
The main colors are blue, orange and green which made it more suited for a boy (in my opinion). I'm not sure if they have more colors available somewhere but I didn't see any alternatives. Because of this, I have to assume that these colors are supposed to be unisex. I think it would have been better with yellows, grays and whites.

Adjusting it to her height was a bit awkward at first but it kinda worked in the end. The most frustrating thing about this one was folding it. Today was her first day using it and I haven't been able to get it folded properly. I just put it in the corner for Kelli's dad to close it. The buttons that I think are supposed to be pressed are located in a weird place.

The front wheels swivel but the rear wheels do not. It makes it harder for her to maneuver around. It'll be perfect for a baby in a big house with lots of room to roam.

I like that it can grow with the baby. It turns into something that can be pushed.

Product Review: Eyes Lips Face

My products came in today! I can't do much of a product review because I'm not a regular makeup user so I don't have much prior knowledge. I can however tell you what I ordered and as I use the products I will update this post and give my basic opinion.

The Beauty Encyclopedia - 12 eye shadow shades, 2 cream eye shadow shades, 1 eye liner and 1 eye shadow brush.

Endless Eyes Pro Mini Eyeshadow Palette – Limited Edition

Elf Studio Matte Lip Color

Elf Essentials Eye Shadow Brush

Elf Essentials Blending Wedges

Elf Essentials Eye Lid Primer

Elf Essentials Power Puffs - Set of 4 - I haven't used these yet but I must say they are MUCH thinner than the one I've been using from MAC. Ohhh I almost forgot to mention that e.l.f. sent a free eyeshadow kit that has two tones of gray and two whites.

Ouch: A Piercing

Kelli finally got her ears pierced on Saturday at Piercing Pagoda. The two ladies there were very nice and friendly. We were going to get these...
Then Kelli's daddy and I decided to go with the green version (for all of our birthstones). It looks so cute in her ears. It's crazy how she looks like a little lady now.

The entire process was a little nerve wrecking for me at first. I just didn't want to my lil mama to cry. I had to rationalize it by reminding myself that she handles her immunization shots pretty well. She gave the lady a little bit of trouble as she tried to show me where she would pierce. Kelis just didn't want to stay still. When she got them pierced, she cried a bit but it only lasted for about a minute. By the time we walked away from the booth (it was in a mall) she had stopped crying and didn't even need her pacifier.

Ohh there was a lovely couple who had a cute preemie baby. We talked, laughed and told little stories to each other while we waited. I can't remember the baby girl's name but Hi guys!!

Product Review: Spanx

Simplicity Open-Bust Camisole
I purchased it in black and a size small. They recommend stepping into it as opposed to putting it on like a shirt. When I first put my foot into it I immediately thought OHHHH NOOOOO I got the wrong size. It looked extremely small but I forced myself into it anyway. Doing the a similar version of the "pee pee dance", I wiggled into it and was SUPER DUPER pleased. It held me in just the way I expected. I was very realistic with my expectations and I think it exceeded it. Granted my baby belly isn't the biggest but it is noticeable under clingy fabric and tight clothing. I tried on a shirt that I had stopped wearing because of the baby belly and it looks great. I'm still not home so I can't show a before and after photo.

In-Power Line Super Footless Shaper
I purchased this one in a size A in black even though according to their size chart I was a B. I made the decision after reading some reviews that stated they wished they purchased a size smaller. At first it looked a bit too small. Unlike the cami I was able to get into this one easily. I was worried about having a uni-butt. That's when it looks as if you only have one wide butt cheek. Once I put on my jeans with it, my booty looked pretty normal. Although I am pleased with these footless panty hose I noticed some things about it that I thought I should mention.

1. If you have a fairly large belly then it will simply push your gut upward. You'll essentially lose the muffin top but the bulge is just relocated higher.

2.I only kept it on for a few minutes but I think the top of the tights has great potential to roll down. I'm not positive yet but I caught myself trying to pull it higher.

With that said I will probably purchase another pair of footless panty hose but I would get the one that stops under the breast. That way all the lumps and bumps will be totally smooth.

OOTD: Delayed and Mini Haul

I was supposed to be posting a photo of Kelis' OOTD (outfit of the day). I took the photos of her as promised but I didn't have time to post them because after the party we went straight to her dads house. Once I return to my house I'll be sure to post them (maybe in a week or so).

So yesterday I browsed the Spanx website for some goodies. This was my very first Spanx purchase. I got footless tights and a open bust camisole. I'll be doing some product reviews as soon as I get to wear them.

I also did a mini haul on makeup. I went to Eyes Lips Face and had a blast. I have always been one of those women who has been afraid of makeup. Now that I'm a stay at home mom, I don't have much reason to leave the house. When that rear occasion occurs I want to make it special. Even if it's something as simple as going to Target to pick up clothes for Kelis. I want to go outside in style!

Stay tuned.....

MMMM: Headband

I've been on sort of a creative slump lately but I had an idea today. I'm going to find items that I like or inspire me and remix them for babies/children. Today I decided the first place I would go is to Anthropologie. I decided that no matter what, I was going to find something there to remix. Surprisingly, within no time at all, I found this headband...I like the bead work, but of course that wouldn't work for babies because of the choking hazard. I thought the Swarovski crystals was a great touch and decided to keep that in mind. Kelis isn't old enough for an actual headband so I had to switch that up as well. Here's my remix...I used felt and instead of beads I hand stitched spirals. I wanted a rugged look so I didn't try to make the stitches perfect. I added a rhinestone to the center of each circle to give it a bit of sparkle like the original. I also replaced the headband with thin black elastic.
Tomorrow we're going to a birthday party! Guess what headband she's going to wear! She has a cute pink jumper dress and a nice black turtle neck with pink boots! She's going to look CUTE! I'll be sure to take pictures so you all can see her OOTD (outfit of the day).

Product Review: Cosco Beep Beep Walker

About a week ago I posted a photo of Kelli in her walker. Three days ago she finally made some movement, however she went backwards. I hear that most babies do that tho. Now that she's using her walker more, I've noticed some things that I'm not happy with...

Wheels - The front wheels can swivel but the rear can not. Unless you live in a big house with lots of room this isn't a practical feature.

Toys - There's a toy on there that I guess is supposed to be a tree or something, I'm not quite sure. Anyway, this "tree" is tall and hard. My poor kelis put her head down and hit it pretty hard on this unnecessary feature. It could have been made as a flat softer piece. Here's a close up of what I mean...
See that green blob "tree" behind the car. Ouch! It looks a bit shorter in this picture because of the angle I was at.

I'm not in love with the horn on the steering wheel. It takes a lot of effort to push in order the hear the noise.

Height Adjustment- I mentioned this one in the first post. I wish it was able to adjust lower.

MMMM: Pants

MMMM = My Momma Made Me

Kelis has been growing out of her pants really quickly. I want to be able to just whip her up one using some scrap fabric rather than running out and purchasing one. I've made about two prior to this one but they were pretty much duds. I'm proud to say this is not a dud and she can actually wear this one outside.

It's made using a linen fabric I purchased before she was born to make pillows. I made one pillow and decided I didn't like the fabric. It was pretty inexpensive when I purchased it so I think I have about 2 or 3 yards. I usually only buy 1 or 2 yards of any fabric because I never have a plan for them. I am an impulsive fabric shopper.

I made the pattern using a pair of pants that fits her pretty well.
So here they are...I'm actually pretty impressed with the cuffs. They were kind of an afterthought. I just measured the width of the bottom of the leg and measured how high I wanted it and started sewing. I'll go into more detail with the next pants I make. I'll give you all a step by step process.


Here's a short lil clip of Kelli enjoy her new pants!

Ouch: A tooth

I didn't think I would start a "Ouch" category but it seems like the direction we're going in. Kelis' first tooth is starting to sprout. As excited as I am, I don't think she is. Simply put.....it hurts! She has been very grouchy. She is usually very giggly and calm. For the past 48 hours or so she's been whiny and seemingly uncomfortable. Her Baba (aka grandfather) purchased some baby orajel and a new teething ring (she owns like 1255000 already). She does like that new ring though.

I've been trying to have a pic of her with every post but it's harder to do than I thought. It doesn't help much that she has been so grumpy.

Maybe tomorrow...

Detective Game

I've been away from the blog for a few days. While away, I attempted to play some homemade games with Kelis' cousin. I started to realize that I was having more fun than he was. I guess he was a little too old to play the games I wanted to play. He was more interested in watching Yo Gabba Gabba.

One of the games I called Detective. I drew random images on paper that I saw around the house and he had to be a "detective" and find it. I told him that he was on an important mission and had to find these items before the time ran out. I must say I had a good time drawing and he sucked as a detective.

Playing games with him made me eager to play those kinds of games with Kelis. Hopefully she'll prefer to play with me rather than watch television.

Fingers crossed.....

Kelli: The Walker

Kelis' nana got her a walker yesterday from Target. We purchased the last one!!!! I couldn't wait to go home and put that badboy together. I was so excited to see my lil baby girl walk in her walker. As soon as we got home, I pulled out the camera and was ready to record her running through the dining room. I put her in and...... she just stood there and played with the toys. Her lil feet barely touch the ground. Anyhow she seem to like it although my little brother had more fun playing with it than she did. (He's in the 4th grade, shame on him!)
I am currently pleased with the purchase. My only hiccup is that I wish I was able to adjust it a bit lower so her feet will be firmly on the ground.