looking4lilly

The Whimsey Chronicles - A Must See!

2011-08-31T12:10:00.000-07:00

Recently, I was searching for vintage fabric on Etsy and I stumbled on the most amazing textile and wallpaper designer. Her name is Meredith, she owns and operates The Whimsey Chronicles. I'm going to let her explain the rest...

"A little background - I've practiced commercial interior design for a dozen years and have always had a strong interest in fabric and fashion. I decided to redefine my career path upon re-examining what my true design passions and aspirations were ... textiles and wallpaper! I use Autocad to sketch out my designs and I look for color and image inspiration everywhere: in architecture, signage, fashion, vintage illustrations, to name a few. Every collection begins as a story in my head, with characters and actions, so that I simply feel like I am bringing those things to life as I meticulously place them in a pattern. In fact, a story is included with each pattern to explain how the pattern was designed which truly makes them "storybook textiles & wallpapers." ~Meredith- The Whimsey Chronicles

Here are some example of patterns and products that can be found in her shop:

African Cuff In Tourmaline- Click here to View

Foxtrot- Click Here to view

Brella's Wallpaper- View Listing Here

African Cuff Wallpaper- Click Here to Veiw Listing

Not Yet Released, but coming soon as announced in her blog post today!

The photo above is an image of The Whimsey Chronicles newest collection. Do you "sea" the seahorse? Please visit The Whimsey Chronicles website to view the entire collection. If you take the time to look at her collection, I believe you'll fall in love just as I did (if you haven't already). I would have to guess that we'll be seeing a lot more of The Whimsey Chronicles in the future, so I'm happy that I've had the chance to share it with you here today.

Hope to see you soon,
Kristina

Additional Links:
The Whinsey Chronicles Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/The-Whimsey-Chronicles/131110010256271

Blog: http://whimseychronicles.com/my-chronicles/

Lilly Inspired Labels

2011-08-18T23:59:00.000-07:00

My friends over at Razmatags just listed the cutest Lilly-inspired labels in their Razmatags Etsy shop. I use these dishwasher safe, waterproof labels every day (honestly, not just saying that- I use them constantly). I love them. They last forever. They're made with a special vinyl that withstands the test of time and the abuse my girls offer their lunch bags, which is huge. Take a look at these:

Labels from Razmatags

Very Jane Feature

2011-08-04T23:27:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to post a quick link to Very Jane. My Back to school "Teacher's Pet" headbands are featured on the site today. They are available through Very Jane (.com) for half price, so that's only $3.75 each!

Very Jane is my favorite "Deal of the Day" site and I'm not just saying that because my items are on the website today, it's actually a great site. I buy items on Very Jane all the time. So even if the headbands don't interest you, it's worth checking out for their other daily deals.

Click Here for the listing. Here are a few photos of my feature.

Script Headband - click HERE to purchase

Back to School Sale

2011-07-31T12:39:00.000-07:00

2 Piece Set in Lilly Fabric (Zoo Patch)

Hello all, I'm having a Back to School special in my Looking 4 Lilly etsy shop. Enter the code "school" for 25% Off your entire purchase!! Offer expires 8/3 12pm PST

2 Inch Vintage Lilly Headband

Folded Floral Lilly Fabric Headband

Folded Floral Bright Headband

M.I.A.

2011-07-21T01:12:00.000-07:00

I've been absent! I didn't even realize that it had been so long until I saw the date on my last post...shame on me. Here's the short list of what's been going on:

April: Insanely busy with my shops. I did about three times the amount of orders that I normally do in any given month (I know weird, huh?) and then, there was an additional order for 500 headbands for a shop that's located on the east coast. Also, our oldest (not so) little girl turned eight and I wouldn't think of letting her do that without a party. Seriously, my head was spinning. On top of everything, I have these three kiddos and they, of course, have Spring Break in April , so I tried to make that fun as well. Balance...

May-Still lots of orders (although, not as insane as April), Spring Break for the girls and a big fundraising event for school.

June-Kids out of school, Daily Swim Practice x two, Travels, Family Reunion and more...

That at least brings us to the current month.

So now, because ~~I'm insane and thrive on stress~~ I'm always looking for a new creative outlet, I decided to open a bridal accessory shop! I'm really liking it. And why not? I get to play with silk and feathers- all kinds of feathers, I just ordered ivory peacock feathers, so fun. But the best part: The brides I've worked with are surprisingly calm and happy. I could have used a little of what ever they're taking while I was engaged. I'm a little ashamed to admit it, but I honestly remember crying over seating assignments- like "losing it" crying.

Here are a few photos of items in the shop:

I have a Russian netting birdcage veil that I've listed at only $10 as a grand opening type of deal. As of yet, the shop isn't even close to being as full as I'd like. Even so, here's a link if you want to visit KAK Bridal.

Now, I'm headed to the studio to tackle a boatload of tulle that will become elbow veils. On a side note, for those of you who have worked with tulle, isn't it the strangest textile? It seems to grow, like the Blob- it's as though there's more of it every time I pull it out of the bin. Just had to mention it.

Thanks for stopping by!
Kristina

I Thee Wed...Preppy Style

2011-03-31T23:24:00.000-07:00

Planning a wedding? Etsy seems to be a must for brides these days, especially since the bride-to-be can work directly with sellers, artists and designers to have items customized to their needs. Below, you will see a number of wedding and bridal items that I recently found on etsy. I felt as though they just had to be shared!

I'm starting with the item that prompted this post...the monogrammed veil from jfyBride. This veil makes me want to get married all over again!

This BEAUTIFUL monogrammed veil is available from jfy Bride. Below is another example of her monograms.

As luck would have it, our friend Lynn of L. Whelan Designs has a new line of bow ties made with Lilly Pulitzer fabric. If you haven't been to her shop already, you might want to stop by, her craftsmanship is amazing and her eye for color is delightful. I've been eyeing her aprons forever!

Boy's Bow Tie in Lilly Pulitzer Fabric, pattern: Millionaire's Row- from L. Whelan Designs

Bow Tie in Lilly fabric - pattern: Low Riders from L. Whelan Designs

Now, a few bridal items from my etsy shop: Looking 4 Lilly. These are all made with vintage Lilly Pulitzer fabric. They would qualify as "something old".

Vintage Lilly Pulitzer fabric stemmed rosettes from Looking 4 Lilly. These are made to add a touch of Lilly to the bridal bouquet. Give them to your wedding florist and they'll take it from there.

Bridal party matching headbands and wedding garter in vintage Lilly from Looking 4 Lilly.

For absolutely beautiful jewelry from a seller who knows all about preppy style, visit Caroline Grace Jewelry . This designer has an amazing talent for combining elegance, beauty and simplicity (with an added touch of sparkle). She uses only the finest materials, which is why she is such a great find for brides.

Earrings by Caroline Grace Jewelry

I came across these gorgeous invitations while looking around on etsy also. They are by Nellia Designs. I fell in love with these.

Buckle Ribbon Wedding Invitations by Nellia Designs

Of course these "Save the Date" magnet cards caught my eye. They are by Anna Murray Invitations. She has numerous patterns from which to choose.

Save the Date Magnets by Anna Murray Invitations

Last but not least...if you're going to get dressed up and have a celebration, make sure everyone is dressed in their best. These are perfect for engagement photos that include your best friend. This collar is from Pinky's Pet Gear. This happens to be one of my favorite etsy shops, as well as one of my favorite etsy sellers. Take a look at her adorable collars and preppy key fobs.

One Less

2011-02-07T22:38:00.000-08:00

"There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle." --A. Einstein

I received an email today, which informed me that a mom from my daughters' swim team passed away last week. She was a non-smoker who was diagnosed with lung cancer over a year ago. She was admired by many here in our small, tight-knit community. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family during this difficult time.

Unfortunately, I didn't know her. At least I don't think we ever met. My daughters just started swim team last summer. But, from what I understand, she played an active role on the team in recent years. She even made it to meets last summer immediately after receiving chemo treatment. She suffered that which sounded like a pulmonary embolism. So, it was a battle that she endured, but the end was sudden. Now their family of four is one less.

I found myself staring at the beautiful photo of her and her family that I received via email today. I might not have known her, but I knew her. She was a mom, like me, who lived in the same community, she drove on the same roads and shopped in the same stores.

It's sad to hear about loss such as this. It reminds me of just how far removed from death I feel sometimes. It's as though it's the furthest thing from my mind. Then, I get an email like the one that I received today and reality sets in. The reality that the woman I mentioned was probably cruizn' along at full speed a little over a year ago, worrying about the same things that I worry about today...swim practice, grocery shopping, dry cleaning, report cards, you know -the important stuff. And then everything suddenly changed for her and her family. It reminds me that it could change for my family just as quickly. So, I shut the computer off, let the laundry stay in the dryer and hug the girls extra tightly and twice as long. I take the time to ask them about every single detail of their day. I do this for a while and then I get caught up in life again and forget. I forget that this life of mine is a gift and that every moment spent taking it for granted, is a moment wasted.

I forget that those tiny feet that track in mud, will soon be walking out the door to go to college, and that the dog that's leaving paw prints all over our french doors will leave our family before we're ready to say goodbye (because dogs always leave too soon). I forget that the guy I married, the one who forgot to pick up the milk at the grocery store also happens to be the most amazing father I've ever known. I forget to watch the girls when they laugh just because they're laughing and that a five year old child's fib, isn't the end of the world...

I forget that nothing is the end of the world, here on earth, except for the actual end of our world, here on earth. And, as I'm busy forgetting to be grateful for every moment that we have together, I miss out on some pretty cool stuff. I just know it.

Lilly Party at the Museum of Lifestyle and Fashion History

2011-01-02T11:09:00.000-08:00

Lots of Lilly lovers are attending this event (including Ms. Lilly herself!) at the Museum of Lifestyle and Fashion History. My sister, Tamra and I fly to Key West on Wed. the 5th and then head to the party on the 8th. Hope to see you there!

Pantone Reveals Color of the Year 2011- Honeysuckle

2010-12-09T10:21:00.000-08:00

Okay, it's in. Pantone has announced the color of the year for 2011: Honeysuckle! I thought it was a yellow tone also, but it's not. In fact, it's far from it. Here it is. Do you love it?

Pantone announces 'Honeysuckle' as Color of the Year

Shocking as it may come, I'm crazy about it it. And, I think I can work with it quite nicely. I was surprised though, as I said. I think of Honeysuckles as being yellow. Turns out, they come in many colors including this one (see below). I guess Pantone can call a color anything they want, they are the experts.

The result? I want one of these pink Honeysuckle vines. I bet there is some guy sitting in a specialty nursery this morning who is a little confused about the sudden demand.

Honeysuckle Flower- Pinkish Variety

Of course last year, Pantone went with Turquoise. I think these people know what they're doing.
I want to hear what you think.

Thanks Turquoise, it's been fun!

Lots of Lilly

2010-11-27T13:07:00.000-08:00

I've added some fun new Lilly Pulitzer Fabric ornaments to my Lotus and Lilly shop. They come in sets of ten or five. There are other Holiday ornaments in the shop also for all the Lilly lovers on your list!

Lilly Find from Home Lush for $5.99

2010-11-17T16:32:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I come across a Lilly item that I just have to share...to not share, would be criminal. This is one such case.

Cute Lilly travel mugs: $5.99 Click here for link

I just came across these on etsy (and promptly purchased two of them). No, these aren't in my shop and I'm not getting anything for featuring them here. They are Lilly print travel mugs from Home Lush (remind me to ask her about the shop name later), they hold 11 oz. This is enough to get me to school when I drop the girls off in the morning. Then, on the way back home (translation: "on the way back home" means "shopping", just so you know), I get to stop at the coffee shop with my oh-so-cute and monogrammed no less, mug for a refill. The best part, she's selling them for $5.99. Seriously. I've seen mugs like this before, but never at this price. She has both White Zin and Patchtastic available.

These will be the perfect stand-in when I can't find my favorite Pandamonium Lilly mug that I received during the summer Lilly exchange (Don't know about the Facebook Secret Santa Lilly exchange? Here's a link: Secret Santa Lilly Exchange, it's so much fun). I'm getting off subject, but do check out the exchange!

If you happen to click on the link for the mugs (here) and find that it is sold, you can convo her (her name is Rosa) and she'll set up a listing for you.

Vintage Aprons

2010-10-29T10:19:00.000-07:00

Click here to go to listing- $7.95!

I'm on a vintage apron kick lately. I've found no where better than etsy to shop for them. Last night, when I searched "Apron" under etsy's vintage category, 4,590 items popped up. Now, several of those are for patterns, but most of them are for aprons. The prices are typically low. I did my search using the sorting tool which will post the lowest priced aprons first, then I skipped to page 10 where the aprons start to appear (past the patterns). Here are a few photos with links to the apron listing under the photo.

A side note regarding aprons: A friend of mine recently told me that she forgoes expensive evening wear as nothing seems to evoke a mood of romance in her husband more than an apron...Now, I'm not sure how I feel about that, but I mention it here because I haven't been able to look at aprons in the same way since she shared that with me. For the most part, I just think they have an amazing vintage appeal. If they happen to come with benefits for one's relationship then, they simply become a multi-purpose item thus, adding to their value.

Go and treat your self to one of these! All of the aprons seen here are under $10. These are not my listings, just cute aprons that I came across and had to talk myself out of buying!

Have Fun,
Kristina

On etsy $10- click here for listing

On etsy- $8 click here for listing

Hand Chrochet Vintage apron $8

On etsy- $7.99 click here for listing

Love this one $8 Click here for listing

On etsy- $8.95

Pleated loveliness- $10

Finally, as a California girl (born and reared), I couldn't pass this one up for $7.

Winner of the set of Six Lilly Pulitzer fabric ornaments!

2010-10-15T09:56:00.000-07:00

The winner for our most recent giveaway for a set of 6 Lilly Pulitzer fabric Holiday Ornaments is:
Little Miss Can't be Wrong
The drawing was performed randomly by Random.org (http://www.random.org/draws/details/?draw=3520&view=owner). There were a total of 39 comments- one from me and two were duplicates, so there were a total of 36 people who participated.
Thanks so much to all who participated!!

It's Rude to Ask a Person's Age

2010-10-13T17:05:00.000-07:00

Just a photo of a cool, mature woman - No relation (unfortunately, because I think this lady could really bring a smile to my face on Thanksgiving)

My daughter, Hollyn, is five. Our typically circular conversation went like this today:

Hollyn: Mommy, you're fourteen, right?
Me: No. I thought I said I that I didn't want to talk about that anymore.
Hollyn: Well, I thought you said that you were fourteen.
Me: No, it sounds like fourteen.
Holly: How old are you Mommy?
Me: It's rude to ask a lady's age.
Hollyn: But, you're my Mommy.
Me: True enough Love, I'm forty.
Hollyn: What?! (loudly)
Me: Try again.
Hollyn: Pardon Me?!! (even louder)
Me: I'm forty.
Hollyn: Forrrrrty?? That's waaay more than fourteen.
Me: Glad to see that kindergarten is paying off.
Hollyn: Mommy why is it rude to ask a person's age?
Me: For many reasons Sweetheart, but mostly because it reminds them of their age.
Hollyn: Mommy, next time someone is rude and asks you how old you are, just tell them that you are more than fourteen.
Me: Good idea Hollyn. I'll do that.
Hollyn: Let's practice...Mommy, how old are you?

Set of 6 Lilly Pulitzer Fabric Ornaments Giveaway

2010-10-11T14:56:00.000-07:00

I'm having a giveaway for a set of six (6) Lilly Pulitzer fabric Holiday Ornaments from the Lotus and Lilly Shop. So you know the drill, I make it pretty easy. Just follow this blog, comment below and make sure that you also are a fan of my facebook fan page by clicking here. If you don't have a facebook account, no worries, just mention that in your comment below.

The ornaments will look like the ones seen here. I'll include three palm tree ornaments and three snowflake ornaments all in different Lilly patterns. They are reversible too, so you get to pick the patterns that you want to display.

The random drawing will be held on Friday, Oct. 15. I will announce the winner here. That's it!

New Lilly Pulitzer Fabric Pattern Albums

2010-09-24T17:07:00.000-07:00

I receive so many requests for images of the different Lilly Pulitzer prints that I have available for different items. I finally decided to make an album for people to look through, especially as I now receive more orders for bridal party clutches and headbands. So...here is a link to the album that I started. It is by no means finished. I have several to add and haven't even started on the vintage Lilly prints. But, I wanted to share the link with you anyways. I'll let you know as I add additional prints through out the next week. Click HERE to take a look.

The winner is...

2010-09-10T10:43:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to "Janice"! She is the winner of the baby clothes bear from Shellylisser! Thanks to all who entered. I have another really good giveaway planned for next week!

Giveaway-Baby Clothes Custom Keepsake Bear!!

2010-09-03T09:41:00.000-07:00

Baby Clothes Bear-made with your little ones clothes!

Recently, I found a little shop on etsy that has some really good finds. The items in this shop include precious keepsakes, the kind that you will want to keep forever because they are custom made. The name of the shop is Shellylisser (Click here to visit). Michelle is the talented woman behind the shop. Michelle started sewing when she was only five years old! Her mother had her working with a real sewing machine at that age and Michelle has been sewing ever since. Michelle is a mother of two and a teacher so she's busy, but thankfully she's made the time to run her etsy shop. She makes quilts (there's a Lilly quilt in her shop), stuffed animals, jewelry and purses, all with a custom touch because she incorporates photos or fabric that comes from the items you provide.

The baby clothes bear, which she has graciously offered as a giveaway item for one of our lucky readers, is made from all of those sweet little baby clothes that mothers, grandmothers or aunts had the good sense to hold onto because they just couldn't part with them. Or, if you're like me, you had intentions on doing something else with them one day. Michelle can do that for you. She takes the baby clothes and constructs a stuffed bear with them (see photos). I want to have three made out of my three daughters' baby clothes with the hopes of someday passing them on to their little ones.

I ordered a photo purse from Michelle, I'm giving it to my 89 year old Grandmother for Christmas. The photo is printed on canvas so it's actually part of the handbag. This purse will allow my grandmother to show off her great grand kids. I know she will love it. As soon as it arrived in the mail, I ordered a second one for myself with a silhouette photo of my daughters.

My Grandmother's Purse

She also makes and sell silhouette pendants and bracelets and necklaces that are made with a Tiffany style chain and toggle...love them!

Silouhette pendant

Michelle makes something else that I've never come across on etsy, Memory Animals. These are stuffed animals made out of the familiar clothing that belonged to a loved one. I've read about these stuffed animals being used as a therapeutic devices for children who've lost someone with whom they were close. You won't find these currently in the shop, but you can convo Michelle for more information.

So go check out this little shop!

Give away details:

1. Follow this blog

2. Visit Michelle's shop by clicking here and tell us which item you love the most!

3. Comment below telling us that you would like to be entered in the drawing and don't forget to mention your favorite item from Michelle's shop : )

-That's it!!

The winner of the giveaway will be randomly selected on Friday, Sept. 10. The winner will be announced here!

Busy, Busy

2010-08-19T19:02:00.000-07:00

I've been running around like a crazy woman trying to get everything in order for back-to-school. I've also managed to make a few new items in the process. These items have all made it into the shops (see link in left hand column). Maaany more on the way!

Lilly Pulitzer Fabric Clutch in the pattern: White Zin

(Below)Vintage Lilly Pulitzer Fabric Clutch in the pattern: Pandas

Vintage Lilly Pulitzer Fabric Two Inch Headband

Lilly Pulitzer fabric clips, The Mumsy Collection

Lilly Fabric Quilts by: By Tillie

2010-08-10T13:13:00.000-07:00

Pink and Green Lilly Pulitzer fabric quilt by: By Tillie

Sometimes I come across a seller on etsy who deserves recognition. This seller definitely falls into that category. The shop is called: By Tillie(Click on Shop Title to visit). She sells the most beautiful Lilly Pulitzer fabric quilts. She started making the quilts when her daughter went away to college and wanted her dorm room decorated in Lilly (I can relate). Her daughter's friends soon took notice and additional orders started rolling in.

While she clearly is an excellent seamstress, she is an engineer by profession and felt that her quilt designs looked a little structured. So her son, who has an artistic eye, came to her aid and now helps her by providing the quilt layout. Together, I think they do an amazing job.

She also makes baby quilts, even Lilly quilts suitable for boys! In the past one would be hard pressed to design a baby boy's nursery in Lilly, but with one of By Tillie's quilts as the focal point, it's a done deal. These quilts are so beautiful, they make me want to have another baby!

Blue and Green Lilly Pulitzer fabric baby quilt by: By Tillie

Various Lilly Pulitzer fabric quilts by: By Tillie

Orange and Pink Lilly Pulitzer fabric throw by: By Tillie

By Tillie currently has ten Lilly Pulitzer fabric quilts in her shop that are ready to be shipped. Go look and tell me what you think.

Another fantastic Shopaholic in Alabama Giveaway

2010-08-03T18:02:00.000-07:00

Shopaholic in Alabama has another great giveaway going on from The Preppy Ladybug. She makes the cutest preppy paper products and has an etsy shop. Click on the Shopaholic In Alabama hyperlink above to enter!! Lori, from Shopaholic in Alabama has outdone herself with amazing giveaays this week in celebration of a milestone birthday. Thanks again Lori and Happy Birthday!

Another Fantastic Shopaholic in Alabama Giveaway- Preppy Princess

2010-07-30T22:35:00.000-07:00

I'm loving the giveaways this week over at Shopaholic in Alabama. She's featuring Preppy Princess today with two giveaways! Preppy Princess has the most amazing items including KJP headbands as well as tons of Lilly! Clearly, I wasn't spending enough time in the Preppy Princess shop. I don't want to post images here of Preppy Princess items as I don't have permission. But, just click on the Shopaholic in Alabama link above and you can go from there. Have fun!

Clutch and Headband set give away on Shopaholic in Alabama!

2010-07-30T12:19:00.000-07:00

Today, Lotus and Lilly is featured on the blog: Shopaholic in Alabama. She's having some amazing giveaways in celebration of her Birthday. The items featured today are from the Lotus and Lilly shop. I'm so excited to participate! The winner will receive the two items seen here. Click here to enter!!

Shopaholic in Alabama Giveaway

2010-07-29T16:12:00.000-07:00

My friend, Lori over at Shopaholic in Alabama is having an amazing string of giveaways to celebrate a milestone birthday! Click here to visit her blog and enter. Today the giveaway is for MCC Designs, who happens to make the cutest preppy personalized paper goods. She's also a fellow etsian. Here are a few of her items...too cute.

Home Again, Home Again

2010-07-21T23:25:00.000-07:00

We're back from our Yellowstone/Grand Teton vacation. I'm excited to post a few photos. Unfortunately, I left my laptop charger in a Hilton somewhere in Wyoming. My laptop has all of the photos on it and I'm not able to access them without the charger (laptop's dead). No biggie though, the charger should arrive with tomorrow's mail. In the mean time, I'll share this one photo of a bear that we saw. I borrowed it from my sister who joined us with her family. Seriously, if you haven't been to Yellowstone, this is the kind of wildlife that's seen regularly. It's amazing and somewhat strange, but I'll get into that later.

The shops are open again (see links in the right hand column). During this quiet spell, I'm having fun making these new little flowers that look like mums- with Lilly fabric of course. I'll post photos of these as well and already have a giveaway in the works. You'll be the first to get the details!

Hope everyone is having the best July ever. Summer will soon be a memory. Have you seen Lilly's Fall line?? Tell me what you think.

Yellowstone Bound

2010-07-01T08:06:00.000-07:00

We are going on vacation to Yellowstone National Park for two to three weeks. Why "two to three weeks"? It's not poor planning, we're just not sure that we won't be ready to come home after two weeks. Our extremely flexible house-sitter is more than accomodating so, we'll just see how we feel.

What does this mean for my shops: Lotus and Lilly, Looking 4 Lilly and The Vintage Lilly? They will go on vacation too. I'll place them in vacation mode tomorrow at 10am PST. We don't leave until next Monday, but I won't be able to take anymore orders after tomorrow.

There was an article in our local paper (The Mountain Democrat) yesterday about Lotus and Lilly. I'm dying to post a link, but you need a subscription to view their articles...very frustrating. I'm working on it though and might resort to a scan option. It's just to colorful to not post. Plus, the reporter went into the history of Lilly Pulitzer fabric, which was just too cool. Again, I'll work on it over the next couple days.

Enjoy your holiday weekend and be safe!

Winner of the Red, White, Blue and Lilly Giveaway!!

2010-06-28T10:35:00.001-07:00

The winner of the Red, White, Blue and Lilly Giveaway is:

Suburban Prep!

Thank you to all who entered. I have another giveaway coming up at the end of July.

Giveaway- Red, White, Blue and Lilly!

2010-06-20T18:16:00.000-07:00

I'm doing a short term giveaway so that the winner receives the items in time for the 4th of July weekend festivities. The giveaway is for a clutch and matching headband set that is in the Vintage Lilly Pulitzer pattern: "Manage", as seen here. It's made with all-new fabric(albeit vintage textile). It's red, white and blue, which is pretty uncommon for Lilly.

Thre drawing for the giveaway will be held on Monday July 28. Here's how you can enter:

1.For one entry- "Like" the facebook Lotus and Lilly Fan Page by clicking HERE and inform me by leaving a comment that you've done so in response to this post (if you already have, just mention it in your comment as that counts too). Simply liking the page won't automatically enter your name in the drawing (it's not the only requirement for entrance so it's in accordance with fb policy. Did you know fb has a policy about that?? I didn't either!).

2. For a second entry-Follow this blog- (easy enough) Again, tell me that you follow in a comment here as I won't automatically enter your name in the drawing.

3.For a third entry- Visit Lotus and Lilly.com by clicking HERE and tell me which items you would like to see more of (yes, I just ended a sentence in a preposition, it just felt right). This helps me in determining which additional items I should place in the shop...that's it!

Museum Items Shipped...

2010-06-18T16:20:00.000-07:00

I just recently shipped off the items that I made for the Lilly Pulitzer exhibit which will be held later this summer and will run through May of 2011 at the Museum of Lifestyle and Fashion History. I think a sent a total of 30 items. Here are photos of a few. Can't wait to go to the exhibit later this year. I'm still trying to figure out the best date to attend. I'd love to meet up with some fellow Lilly lovers while in Florida! Let me know if you're going.

Amazing labels that stay-put from Razmatags!

2010-06-11T10:17:00.000-07:00

My friend, Jen, just opened a brand new online shop. She sells the most amazing labels and I told her I would spread the word. Her store is called Razmatags. She has all sorts of packages available, including Camp, Kinder, Elderly packages and a Food Allergy Alert package (which is just extremely cool, as you know if you have a kiddo with allergies). You can also order the labels in the sizes that you specifically need if you prefer not to order a package.

Her website is worth visiting even if you aren't in need of labels because she has it set up so you can preview the pattern of your choice (and there are tons) and custom names printed on the label, this is fun stuff and no easy feat when it comes to web design.

Okay, now the important part, these labels don't budge. I put them on my daughters' swim suits. The girls swim everyday and I am amazed at how well these labels stay-put. I'm also using them on all of my Lotus and Lilly items and will soon order more as I've used several different types and these are by-far the best. They aren't just the vinyl labels that you can typically buy. These beautiful labels are dishwasher-proof, microwave-proof, refridgerator-proof and can stand up to kids wear and tear. They are a great way to kick off summer if you don't want your kids to leave a trail of items behind!

Here's the link: http://www.razmatags.com/

My items in the Lilly Pulitzer exhibit at the Museum of Lifestyle and Fashion History!

2010-06-07T13:05:00.000-07:00

I've been asked to provide a number of items from my Lotus and Lilly shop to The Museum Of Lifestyle and Fashion History for the upcoming Lilly Pulitzer exhibit that will take place later this year. Needless to say, I'm seriously flattered and rather thrilled. When they asked if I would consider loaning several of the items that I make* to the museum for the exhibit to show that there's still an appreciation for the patterns and that they are still being used today, I responded, "Uh, Yes!"

So now the hard part, I'm feverishly making items with vintage Lilly patterns that I'll soon ship off to the museum. I'll take a photo (or ten) and post before I ship. The items will include clutches, coasters, baby booties, wooden fabric covered letters, headbands (of course) and a few others.

Lori J. Durante, Executive Director/Chief Curator of the Museum of Lifestyle & Fashion History, wears a Lilly Pulitzer outfit. (Lori J. Durante, courtesy / April 2, 2010)

The Museum of Lifestyle and Fashion history is located in Boynton Beach, Florida. The exhibit will run from Aug 3, 2010-May 31, 2011. Click here for more info. You're gonna go, right??

* All items available through Lotus and Lilly are made by Lotus and Lilly and not made, sold or endorsed by Lilly Inc.

Last Day to get 25% Off your entire Lotus and Lilly Order

2010-06-04T14:02:00.000-07:00

Just a reminder that the code for 25% off your entire order for Lotus and Lilly expires tonight at midnight PST. The code is: LILLY510. Thank you!

Sugar Free and Hating It

2010-06-03T00:34:00.000-07:00

I'm quitting sugar. It almost hurts to write that, but it's true. It's time. My energy level is nil and I'm sick of it. That's not to say that I'm not bursting with energy at 9:15 am after my morning visit to Starbucks where I often walk away with one venti mocha (iced please) and a cranberry-orange scone in hand. Yeah, plenty of energy at that point. But then there's the inevitable crash. It can strike anywhere from 11am-2pm. I get crazy tired, not just, "I could use a nap" tired, but Poppy Field in the Wizard of Oz-tired. It's as if I can't keep moving. But, you see, I (like everyone else) have things that I have to do each day. My four year old twin daughters couldn't care less about my "energy level". So we go, go, go...

Plus there's the whole thing about owning aprox. 32 vintage Lilly skirts that almost fit. And by "almost" I mean that I can almost pull them up over my hips. But we don't need to get into all that.

I was talking to a friend about this and she mentioned this diet that she's been doing. She raved about her energy level while sticking to the diet and basically had me sold. She said she'd be happy to let me borrow the book that explains the diet. I conveniently forgot to grab it before I left and went home without the book. Not to worry! She was so sweet and brought it to me later that day. I discovered that the book explains, not so much what to eat, but mostly what not to eat. But I put it on my desk with every intention of reading it.

The next day, my computer was slow and the book was sitting here, so rather than swearing at my laptop screen, I started to skim through the book and I found myself thinking, "I can do this". So you know the deal right? It's not Atkins, but same concept as far as how glucose levels encourage the release of insulin which converts sugar into fat and so on. So the trick is to make your body start using fat stores and eventually dietary protein for energy. But, and this is key, you've got to get off sugar because our bodies love sugar, it's a cheap date and loaded with energy, just not the long-term kind, hence the crash.

But before I can do anything, I'm supposed to do this two week liver healing phase for this particular diet. The liver healing-two week phase is brutal. I swear, I've not given my liver much thought, in fact, I can honestly say that on more than one occasion (okay, way more than one) I pretty much abused the ol' liver. Yet, here this well-intentioned book is telling me to "love thy liver" for two short weeks and I find myself doing it with complete resentment, as though someone besides me really needs the diet and I just got stuck going for a ride on the diet bus. It's all pretty silly, because this is what I want, right? "Right", angry diet girl agrees.

I'm on day four. I want chocolate so bad I could scream and pretzels have taken on a whole new appeal. We'll leave cupcakes out of the discussion, as it's just too painful. Just to give you an idea, usually when I look for images to include in posts, I do it pretty quickly. When I was looking for images of candy for this post, I spent a good half hour looking at, I mean for just the right one. It does look super cute though, doesn't it?

So dear readers, please tell me that I'm right where I'm supposed to be and that this is all a normal part of sugar withdraw. And please, tell me this without using the word: exercise. It's next on my list, I swear.

Thanks Much!

I had an item on Etsy's front page today!

2010-06-02T23:38:00.000-07:00

It's funny, I'm really trying to work on the new shop, Lotus and Lilly, as a result, I've been neglecting the etsy shops and not working on the inventory for either one. And then...etsy puts me on the front page today! Now it may not sound like much, but for us "Etsians", it's a pretty big honor. Here's the screen shot (my item is the Sand Dollar headband in the middle of the right hand column, or for those of us who grew up on 70s television, the Peter Brady square):

Thought it was fun and had to share. Here's the actual item a tad closer (no, it's not Lilly fabric. But, you are allowed to love it anyways!):

The Cutest Blog Backgrounds- Free and SO Easy

2010-05-29T11:47:00.000-07:00

Hello, to all of my blogging friends I just have to share this link. Now I know a lot of you are already familiar with Hot Bliggity Blog and I know several of you who blog, have custom templates. Personally, I sprang for the custom template, not so much because I made the decision to do so, but in all honesty, when I started the blog, I had no idea as to how to go about uploading one.

I've since figured it out and Oh-My-Gosh, it's free and so easy! This is not to say that I'm changing my background. I'm in love with it as the designer tried to make it look like one of my all-time favorite Lilly Pulitzer Vintage prints: "H&S" by Pell. Here' an image of the fabric. See the likeness?? Yes, it's very close.

But onto Hot Bliggity Blog...If you use Blogger, you can pick one of several templates for free (actually, they ask for $1 donation, pretty painless), you can change them so easily by being in the Minima template mode and simply going to your Layout page and entering the code in your HTML/Java Script Gadget. That's it.

There are a ton of really cute backgrounds nestled between a lot of brown backgrounds, because apparently somewhere in the world, somebody likes brown. They even have Holiday templates if you are so inclined. Now, if you make the decision to upload a new background to your blog, I wouldn't go crazy alternating them if I were you. Blog backgrounds are like hairstyles, no matter how cute it is, if you change it too often, people will think you're unstable. But, there's always room for the occasional improvement!
Here are a few of my faves:

All available at Hot Bliggity Blog

http://hotbliggityblog.com/backgrounds.php?limit=All&querystring=

Lotus and Lilly Is Open and Ready for Business...mostly

2010-05-28T15:28:00.000-07:00

Clutch in Lilly Pulitzer Elefrance fabric

The new independent online shop is up and running! The name of the new shop is: Lotus and Lilly. Additional items will be added through out the weekend, but there's plenty to go and look at now. To welcome new customers (as well as old), we're offering a discount code which can be used at the time of checkout. The code is good for 25% off the entire purchase! Here's the code: LILLY510 This offer will be good through June Friday June 4th.

Stop by the new store: Lotus and Lilly !

Shop Opens Friday, May 28th!

2010-05-23T11:17:00.000-07:00

I've been making items to go in the new shop. Here's a peek at the bracelets. I love these! I'll post the link to the store here with a discount code, so stay tuned!

Oh Baby!

2010-05-16T13:32:00.000-07:00

New Baby Booties- These will fit infants from 0-6 months depending on their little feet. I love these and think they are perfect for portraits. I have a photograph of my father that was taken when he was 4 months old. He was wearing little blue booties. I have the photo framed in a shadow box with the actual booties displayed in front of the picture. I cherish that photo and those booties. With that in mind, I made these by sewing every stitch by hand, just because I think they should be special. I'm on my way to put them in the Looking 4 Lilly shop right now.

2010-05-12T23:26:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure why I thought developing my own website would be simple. There's more to it than I imagined, plus I'm changing my business name which requires all sorts of applications, trips to the County Clerk and so fourth. Truth is, the only thing that I really want to do is play with my girls and make things in the studio once they're in bed for the night; Trying to work while they're awake is futile.

In the months ahead, I'll be able to dedicate more time to the business-notice I'm not mentioning the name because I don't want anyone to go look at my empty store! It will be filled with all sorts of lovely little Lilly items soon and you will be the first to know. You will also be the first to receive promotional deals! In the mean time my other etsy shops are up and running and that will continue.

I'll be able to spend more time developing the business in the fall because that's when the twins start Kindergarten. It was a tough transition when our oldest started school. She was ready, me...not so much. The twins on the other hand, I think we're all starting to feel ready. Honestly, as much as I love spending the days with them, they're bored and then they start antagonizing each other, which makes me feel like more of a referee than a mom on some days. It's just time for something more, even though they are in preschool a few days a week now.

I really admire people who home school, maybe because I'm a little in awe of them. I just know that if I were to give it a try, it might not go so well (I just deleted "I would suck at it" and tried to put it in more tactful terms, but make no mistake, I meant the latter). It's horrible to say that, but it's true and recognizing your weaknesses is a strength, right? Let's just go with that.

Working on New Website

2010-05-04T14:13:00.000-07:00

I've been extremely busy with a few huge orders and many smaller ones. While I love selling on etsy, I've decided to spread my wings a bit and open my own online store. This is something that I've been wanting to do for a long time so I'm pretty excited about it. I will post information as soon as it's up and running which I'm hopful will be within the next two weeks! Just wanted to keep you posted. I haven't stepped away, I've just been spending more time in the studio than on the computer. Not to worry though, I'm working on a few new ideas and have a giveaway planned for the near future!

Winner of the Clutch Giveaway

2010-04-25T12:52:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to "Teaching In Heels"! You are the vintage Lilly Pulitzer fabric clutch winner. Thank you to all who entered.

New Clutches

2010-04-23T19:24:00.000-07:00

I've been oh-so-busy with orders, but I managed to add a few new clutches to my Vintage Lilly Pulitzer item shop (click here to visit the shop). The blue clutch with tigers seen here is made with the vintage Lilly pattern: HOB which was designed by Suzie Zuzek dePoo of course! It's a rather coveted print and can be seen in the Lilly retrospective video (hint, it's near the middle). I've taken to adding floral embellishments. I hope you enjoy these clutches as much as I do. I appreciate the fact that I've recieved so many orders for these. I'm doing my best to keep up! I just wish that I had an endless supply of vintage fabric because when it's gone...it's gone.

Full

2010-04-22T00:58:00.000-07:00

One of the problems with blogging is that I'm human. Because I'm human, I have tendency to experience moods, therefore, my posts can represent that. Sometimes, I'm a little giddy and my post will show it. Sometimes I want people to visit my shops and that too becomes apparent. Other times, I want to give stuff away, I think you like those days best, as the number of comments seem to peak, which is good, I appreciate that. Then, there are also those times when I feel strongly about something and I just need to write about it. Today is one of those days.

As a mother who happens to blog, I feel compelled to respond to recent tragic events with which we've been bombarded by the media. I'm referring to more than one suicide committed by a young girl. It's been reported that these suicides were preceded by bullying and that these young ladies saw no other way out. Needless to say, these extremely sad stories make me think about my own daughters and their future.

We have three little girls. Our oldest is six and our twins are four. One of my biggest fears is losing the ability to communicate with them in the future. Now, I know the knee jerk response might be, "Well, get prepared because it's coming" Which, of course, is a response based on the stereotypical thirteen year old girl who can be seen in every sit-com. It's the girl who wants nothing to do with her parents because they just don't understand her. But, you see, that's exactly what I'm afraid of. I'm terrified of losing the connection that I share with my daughters, even for a moment. Frankly, I would miss them terribly. I'm not willing to lose them, even temporarily, so they can go through a phase.

Now, you might expect me to describe the ways that a mother can stop that from happening. But, unfortunately, I haven't a clue. I know I make bad parenting choices sometimes only to realize it after the fact. An example would be, scolding the twins for sneaking into the pantry and taking cookies when I've told them only moments before that they can't have one. Then, they get caught, the cookie is taken and there's a time-out. But, I'm too busy and I don't always take the time to explain to them exactly what's going on. I forget to tell them why I don't want them to have the stupid cookie, and that it's because I want them to eat their dinner so they can be strong and healthy. I guess I just think that they know that (because we talked about it only two days ago) and I suppose, for some reason, I expect them to make better choices. But they're FOUR, their memories fade fast plus, the cookie tastes really good. When the whole ordeal is done, their problem isn't that they ate part of a cookie, the problem is: they were caught. And the only thing that I've taught them is that they need to improve their sneaking techniques which really only pushes them away. It's an issue that I strive to improve everyday.

Today it's a cookie, down the road it could be the boy of whom my husband and I don't approve or riding around with friends or...anything. I'm afraid that my disapproval will push them away and teach them to hide things from me. At the same time, I have no desire to be that "cool mom". Remember those moms from when you were a kid? You know the ones to whom I'm referring, they tried to act young, dress cool (actually, I do want to dress cool) and ultimately befriend their children. It seemed pathetic when I was twelve, and now it seems beyond pathetic.

I hope to fall somewhere in between cool mom and commando mom, I'm just not sure exactly how to go about becoming that person. I certainly don't claim to know that the parents of those young girls who made the decision to end their own lives could have done anything to stop it from happening.  I wasn't there and I wouldn't begin to judge those poor people. I'd like to learn something from it though, even if it's only to take the time and stop to think.

I've always thought that it was a mother's responsibility to provide her children with a soft place to fall. That just doesn't seem good enough anymore. I want the girls to seek guidance before they fall. I want to teach them that when life hands them a seemingly hopeless situation, there's always a way out and that it's not outside of them, it's in them. The same can be said of happiness and peace. People spend their lives searching for these things only to end up empty handed. We can't find it, we can only let it in, once we do so, we have the ability to share it with others. It's then, and only then, that we are given the gift of happiness and peace. Yet, I'm left with the realization that that's not necessarily something that I can teach our girls, but thankfully, it's something that I can show them. I pray that I'm up to the challenge and if so, I hope they're watching.

"Example isn't another way to teach, it is the only way to teach."
                                                                      ~Albert Einstein

Mother's Day Corsage

2010-04-18T12:16:00.000-07:00

When I was little, the idea of my Grandmothers going without a corsage on Mother's Day was simply unthinkable. So, as all good traditions, the Mother's Day Corsage is back...only better! Better, because they incorporate Lilly Pulitzer fabric and can be worn all year long. These can be found in my shop by clicking here.

Clutch Giveaway!!

2010-04-11T13:46:00.000-07:00

As promised, I am doing a giveaway for one of my clutches. It's made with a vintage Lilly Pulitzer pattern: "Mexicali Rose" by Suzie Zuzek dePoo and has a 6.5" kiss lock. The fabric is from the 1960s and was manufactured by Key West Hand Print Fabrics in Florida while they produced fabric for Lilly Pulitzer. You can easily see the Lilly signature in two places in this sweet little clutch (see photo). You can find more clutches by clicking on the links (to my shops) seen below.

To Enter: (you need to do all three of the following in order to enter)

1. Follow this blog
2. Become a fan on the Looking 4 Lilly facebook fan page. (click here)
3. Comment here telling me that you've done so.

That's it! I'd love for you to visit my shops and mark them as a favorite but, I'm not going to require that in order to enter the drawing for this giveaway. Here are the links:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/looking4lilly
http://www.etsy.com/shop/thevintagelilly

The drawing wil be held Sunday, April 25. The winner will be notified via email and I will announce it here as well. Good Luck!!

Clutch Giveaway Soon!

2010-04-08T23:20:00.000-07:00

Clutch made with Lilly Pulitzer vintage fabric in the pattern: "Our Joan" by Suzie Zuzek dePoo

I have two etsy shops (you can see links for both in the right hand column), The first: Looking 4 Lilly, is where I sell items made with contemporary Lilly Pulitzer fabric patterns (1994-present) and the second: The Vintage Lilly is where I sell items made with vintage Lilly fabric prints (1959"ish"-1984). The majority of patterns seen in the vintage shop were designed by Suzie Zuzek dePoo who was, as I'm sure many of you know, Lilly's head fabric designer for nearly twenty five years. Ms. Zuzek dePoo's work is amazing. Like Lilly's tigers? You can thank Ms. dePoo for them, as well as so many other animal prints and floral pattern styles that we fans immediately identify as quintessential "Lilly". I love how Lilly's current pattern artists/designers sometimes borrow from the past and provide us with an updated version of the earlier Lilly prints. We get the best of both worlds.

On to the clutches...

The clutches that I make, which have so far been available in my shop: The Vintage Lilly, have exceeded my expectations when it comes to customer interest. So, as true believer in "giving the people what they want", I've decided to do a clutch giveaway. I'll post the details this Sunday, April 11. The drawing will be held towards the end of the month. I haven't made the clutch for the giveaway yet...please feel free to visit my shop (http://www.etsy.com/shop/thevintagelilly), take a peek at the patterns you see on the headbands and tell me which one you would like to see used on the clutch for the giveaway. I'm always more than happy to take suggestions. Keep in mind though, I currently have about 120 vintage Lilly patterns on hand (I search endlessly folks) so, it could be any one of them. I will definitely use a vintage Lilly print for this particular giveaway and it will look something like the ones seen here. So, stay tuned!

Shopaholic in Alabama Giveaway

2010-04-08T23:03:00.000-07:00

I want to thank my friend Lori of Shopaholic in Alabama. She is currently featuring a giveaway, including four headbands from my shop, on her extremely popular blog. I'm so excited to participate in this event. She's encouraging people to get started on their Mother's Day shopping. Love that! Thanks again Lori. The items seen here are featured in the giveaway.

Tiger Talk

2010-04-05T12:22:00.000-07:00

I was just downstairs cleaning up the wrappers from the Easter candies that met their final fate at the hands of my three daughters. I have laundry to do, orders to get out and playdates to arrange. I had the tv on and the girls were sort of half engaged in whatever was on. Then, there was a live interruption announcement which I thought might be followed by information regarding another earthquake here in California. But, to my surprise, there was a break in broadcasting so the Tider Woods press conference could be aired live. I thought, "How ridiculous, who cares?" Then I sat down and watched every second of it.

At first, I have to admit, I was drawn in because I wanted to see him squirm in discomfort. Thinking of his poor wife, his mother and his young children, I suppose that I wanted to see him experience humiliation in front of the world. He didn't.

He sincerely answered questions, all of the questions. Some were difficult, some weren't. I quickly realized that I wasn't watching a humiliated man, I was watching a man make the choice to exhibit humility...huge difference. It's the difference between wallowing in guilt or learning from your mistakes and, most importantly, moving forward. Was it at his wife's expense? You bet. But, he's not making the same mistakes today. Did he have to get caught in order to make that change? Apparently. But, he's not making the same mistakes today. Was he horrible for making the choices that he made? Maybe he was.

I sat there feeling so grateful for the fact that the mistakes I've made in my life weren't followed by a press conference. This morning, the Tiger Woods conference provided me with a reminder that my desire to judge others is really only a synthetic way to go about improving my self image. When I look at another person's perceived shortcomings, I don't have to look at my own and let's face it, that's much more pleasant. But, it's only when I look at myself, the good and the bad, that I stand a chance to improve the lives of those around me, both today and in the future.

I didn't expect a motivational pep talk from Tiger Woods this morning but, turns out, that's exactly what I got. By the way, Mr. Woods, thanks for that.

Delphinium- Amador Flower Farm 4/4/10

Bring On the April Showers

2010-04-02T16:37:00.000-07:00

The darling Lilly shifts that I picked out for the girls to wear this Easter are going to remain in the closet. We are expecting tons of rain here in Northern California. Every year we go to the Amador Flower Farm after services. The Easter Bunny makes an appearance and they have one of the best Easter Egg hunts around. It's a good one where they have age catagories and tons, I mean tons, of eggs.

I'll never forget taking Sadie to an Easter Egg hunt somewhere else when she was barely three. She was all dressed up and so excited but stood there with an empty basket while eight year old boys ran circles around her collecting piles of eggs...NEVER to be repeated. Seriously, I didn't let her see it but, I cried. She, on the other hand, did fine, which is pretty typical. Feeling rather homicidal towards eight year old boys (actually their parents), I decided it would be best to find a different Easter Egg Hunt in which to participate during the following years. So, the Flower Farm Hunt is a hit with parents of any child under five because the little ones aren't competeing with kids 2-3 times their age. In addition to the hunt, we take a huge picnic (actually my Mom brings a huge picnic, We bring the cute kids-thanks Mom!) and just make a fun day out of it.

Sadly, we decided to skip the traditional Flower Farm this year due to forecasted rain. But then I decided to take a look at their website. It says: "Easter Egg Hunt 1:00pm Rain or Shine". Then I realized, our girls are completely water-proof. I may not be a big fan of mud but, our girls just love it (they totally get that from their dad). So, why not?! I'm pulling out the rain boots and rain coats and we're going to give it a shot. A little rain can't scare us, we are way tougher than that...now where are my pink Wellies and my Lilly umbrella? After all, let's not forget that it's Easter.

Lilly Letters

2010-03-29T14:08:00.000-07:00

I just finished these 9 inch wooden Lilly Pulitzer fabric covered letters for a customer. She is expecting a little granddaughter (appropriately name: Lilly) who will soon have these letters hanging in her nursery. I think they look so sweet! Now, I'm working on a set for a little girl named: Jordan, as well as, a number of initials. These are in my etsy shop (click HERE to visit). I can do them in any of the patterns that I currently have on hand. They're just too fun.

Lilly Pincushions

2010-03-25T11:43:00.000-07:00

I started making these glass pedastal Lilly pincushions last year when a sweet Lilly friend (these are friends that I've met online as a result of my obsession with Lilly, they are some of the best people I've ever had the pleasure of knowing) well, this "Lilly friend" suggested that I make something for people who sew. There was one woman who bought nearly every single one that I made. She and her daughter are huge Lilly fans, and now, Lilly fabric pincushion collectors. It was funny, as soon as I would list one, she would buy it; It worked for me.

I've been really busy with the headbands in recent months and I stopped making the pincushions for a while but, now I'm back at it. I'm trying to stay true to my original intentions. When I first started making and selling items, I did so because I wanted to tap into my creative side. Obviously, it's turned into much more than a hobbie where I get in tune with my crative abilities. It's really become part of me and, as a result, it's changed the way I look at things. I don't mind staying up all hours of the night working (most the time). The house is so quiet. I love that I don't have a commute and that I am doing something I enjoy.

Last night I did something that I enjoyed and the results can be seen above (and in my Looking 4 Lilly etsy shop). These are great for Mother's Day. By the way, I've got this idea for Mother's Day corsages. Stay tuned, I'm thinking that I'll make them with Lilly fabric, I know, shocking. I wonder if the other fabrics in my studio (those that aren't Lilly) have hurt feelings. I'll get to them...someday.

Vested Gentress

2010-03-22T23:47:00.000-07:00

The highly coveted & very collectable Horse Tail Dress by Vetsed Gentress

Currently avail. through Pin Up Dresses

So without a doubt, my heart belongs to Lilly. I just wanted to make that clear although, I hope I do that on a pretty regular basis. I'm a huge fan of contemporary Lilly Pulitzer (meaning the Sugartown years, 1993-present) but, it's the vintage Lilly (1959"ish"-1984) that hits my bank account the hardest. I'm on a constant search for items. As I search for vintage Lilly, I'm always coming across Vested Gentress items and, I've become a fan.

If you aren't familiar with Vested Gentress, I'll just quickly tell you that Vested Gentress was a company based out of Valley Forge, PA. They opened in the early 60s and closed in the 80s. In addition to their regular clothing line, they had a golf and tennis line. They, like Lilly Pulitzer, were known for their prints. Only, the patterns that Vested Gentress used, could make Lilly's seem, well, pretty tame. Rather than write about it, I'll share these amazing photos. I don't own the items seen here. But here's the good news, the owners are now sellers, as the items shown here are available! See hyper-links.

Just like Lilly, Vested Gentress was known for their hand printing. The patterns were playful and, at times, sort of in-your-face funny. Many patterns used cartoon character-looking animals. The dog that was also used as the company logo for many years comes to mind and can be seen below. He's seen here as a puppy but, is usually seen in patterns all grown up and is often with this frog...I can't make this stuff up folks. I'm sure someone out there knows more about the person who created many of these characters. Please share the information with me if you have it. I'd love to know more and give credit where it's due.

There are many Vetsed Gentress (VG) collectors. One can easily see why. Several of the patterns are unmistakably VG. They even have a little "VG" by the pattern image (the G looks like a Q). They are fun and colorful and remind us of a different time. (I'm desperately trying not to start off every sentence in this post with "Like Lilly...." )There will always be people who want VG, there will always be sellers on the lookout because they know that there's such a strong resell market for the items. Having said that, I will also tell you that VG prices tend to be all over the map. I've purchased skirts for as little as $8. Currently, there are a number of items online that are priced well into the hundreds. This also adds to the collector's fervor as one can occasionally find an amazing deal.

Avail through: Heidi Hodge

I want to point out that VG comes in every color of the rainbow and more. I have a few dresses in brown! I just happened to post photos here with examples in pink and green. Honestly, I just noticed it and blame it more on habit and preference than availability (insert happy face here).

Avail through: Pretty Plus More

The Clutch

2010-03-17T14:36:00.000-07:00

Vintage Lilly Pulitzer fabric clutch & matching headband

I've been making these new clutch purses with vintage (1960-70s) Lilly Pulitzer fabric. I am crazy about them. I hope you share my enthusiasm. I currently have a little over 200 Lilly prints on hand (both vintage & contemporary) and plan on making several more over the next month. I will definitely have a clutch giveaway during the next few weeks. I will have about 5 clutch purses in my vintage Lilly etsy shop by Friday. Here's a link:

http://www.etsy.com/shop/thevintagelilly

Clutch purses are the coolest because they lack shoulder straps and basically say, "Please, don't bother me, I'm busy holding my purse." If you want to look really busy, I would suggest holding your clutch with both hands. No one would dare ask you to help them move a couch or change a baby's diaper when you have one of these one-of-a-kind vintage Lilly clutches in your grasp.

Here are a few questions you are likey to be asked when holding a clutch:
"One olive or two?"
"May I pull the car around for you?"
"Where did you find that darling purse?"

Here are few questions that you are not likely to be asked:
"Can you grab that end and walk towards me?"
"On your way to the gym?"
"Would you like the extra value meal for only .48 cents more?"

So clearly, life is just better with a clutch. Plus, it actually holds stuff. Be informed, they won't hold diapers (mostly because I said so)...Yay!!

Can you see the "Lilly" signature?

Awkward Family Photos

2010-03-16T18:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, I have to share this site. I've been on a blog-reading kick lately. As the bloggee, I've been exposed to some great sites and this is (by far) one of the best, in my opinion. The title says it all: Awkward Family Photos.com. I suggest you stop whatever it is that you are doing (Oh wait, you're reading my Blog), well, when you're completely done here, head over there. The images are funny but again, like Cake Wrecks, the insightful captions by the blog creators really set the tone.
The creators (Mike Bender & Doug Chernack) also have a book out (see above image). This gives you a good idea of what the site is all about. Had to share! Tomorrow, I bring you: Lilly Clutches!

By the way, here's just one more photo from the site; I couldn't resist.

I'm sure in the discussion stages, this sounded beautiful.

Cakes Gone Wrong!!!

2010-03-14T23:40:00.000-07:00

Example of a cake gone wrong from Cake Wrecks. One comment was that this cake looked like the Octo-Mom.

I came across this blog: Cake Wrecks "When Professional Cakes Go Horribly & Hilariously Wrong". It's worth a visit! Maybe you have heard of it already, which wouldn't surprise me as the blog is insanely popular and, the woman who writes the blog (Jen Yates), also wrote and published a book by the same name ( click here to see book link). If you're a little late coming to the party (as was I), not to worry, that's why God made blogger archives. The cake examples are too funny and her writing is beyond witty.

"What, I wrote exactly what it said!"

Yes, exactly...

We have a winner!!

2010-03-14T10:51:00.000-07:00

The winner of the March Give away is:
Mrs. Bogarde!!
Congratulations! And, thank you to all who entered.

Large Orders

2010-03-12T23:32:00.000-08:00

I just completed and sent off this order for the young ladies of Sweet Briar College. It was for 250 Lilly Pulitzer fabric headbands (I mailed them in a little more organized fashion than this!). I've been working more and more with sororities and doing several group orders for weddings and birthday party favors. I love it. Now, I'm going to hit the studio and work on some Lilly clutch purses that I've been dying to make. Stay tuned...

March Giveaway!!

2010-03-12T01:07:00.000-08:00

Looking 4 Lilly Spring 2010 Venise Trim Vintage Lilly fabric headbands (left-"Adys" & top- Our Joan both by Suszie Zuzek dePoo, bottom right- "H & S" by Pell)

I'm loving Lilly's Little White Shayna dress. The boat neck, 3/4 length sleeves, empire waste and the lace, oh dear, that lace kills me. It's inspired me. I've made headbands that are similar to some that I made last year around this time. I've used vintage Venise trim. It's delightful and oh-so-bright white. Kind of like the Shayna.

The Shayna: Lilly Pulitzer Spring 2010

So, I'm going to have a giveaway. The items in the giveaway are seen above (all THREE 2 inch headbands). They are all made with vintage Lilly Pulitzer fabric. Two of the three patterns were designed by Suzie Zuzek dePoo (Lilly's head fabric designer for aprox 25 years 1960-80s) and the third ("H & S") was designed by Pell (who also did coloration for Lilly Pulitzer while he was a co-owner of Key West Hand Print Fabrics). The pattern "H & S" was, obviously, the print that I asked my graphic designer to emulate when designing my blog template. Did she do an amazing job or what?

You can enter the headband drawing three different ways:

1. Follow (all followers are automatically entered to win)

2. Leave a comment here (that's pretty simple)

3. Send your friends! Have them leave a message in the comment section here telling me that you sent them. Your name will be entered in the drawing an additional time for each person you send who follows and leaves a comment. Of course, the people who you've sent will be in the drawing as well.

That's it!

The drawing will be held on March 14. The winner will be announced here. I will also contact the winner and notify them.

Good Luck!

Excellent Blog with Amazing Giveaways

2010-03-11T16:58:00.000-08:00

I have to share a link to this blog by Lauren Nicole Gifts. She makes the most beautiful hand stamped jewelry and other pesonalized items. And, she has beyond great giveaways... Stop by and take a look for yourself! She is currently having a Lilly fabric giveaway. This one is right up my alley. Here's an image:

http://www.laurennicolegifts.blogspot.com/

My Alarm Clock

2010-03-06T22:37:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I realize that this may not seem post worthy but, I just have to tell you anyway. I have a built in alarm clock (not in my head) but, in my house. It doesn't require electricity or batteries. It only requires water, bi-weekly cage cleanings and a bit of guinea pig food, actually a lot of guinea pig food. His name is "Budgy" or "Fluffy" or "Bo" or whatever my six year old wants to call him on any given day. You see, technically, he's her pet. In fact each one of our three daughters has a guinea pig. Santa brought them this last Christmas. My husband wasn't all that happy about it but, I was thrilled. It just so happens that I love almost anything with fur. So, way to go Santa!

This little guy though...he's amazing. You can seriously set your clock by him. Every morning at 6:00am (if he is bored, it's 5:45am) he starts to squeak. It starts off slow and rather quiet. I used to think that if I ignored him, he'd stop. Turns out that the slow and quiet squeaking is just his way of warming up. Once he gets the slow and quiet part out of the way, he goes to town and makes noises that are difficult to believe come out of an animal weighing in at (maybe) 1.5 lbs. He's on the entire other side of the house and I can't sleep through it. It's like a flock of seagulls flew in through the window (not the band but, an actual flock of seagulls-Little tip of the cap to the class of '88).

The funny thing is, I'm the only one that hears these incredibly loud sounds. The girls don't budge. My husband, on the other hand, is already up by this hour on most days. But, he has this strange ability to completely block it out. He just goes about his business making coffe or whatever, with a guinea pig down the hall squealing as though he's being attacked. This is probably why my (many) requests for guinea pig quarters were met with a smirk followed by him saying, "You helped them write the letters to Santa". It just doesn't bother him and, why should it, when a crazy lady is running around looking for the guinea pig food she misplaced?

When all of this started (shortly after Christmas), I thought I would train him to stop. I tried feeding him at different times and giving him so much food there would be a constant supply thus, no need to squeak at me. Well, regardless of how much food I put in his cage, it always seemed to be gone by the next morning (guess that's where the "pig" part of their name comes from) and, as far as timing the feedings differently, this just seemed to confuse him and created a situation where the squeaking took place all hours of the day.

So, now this just seems to work best. We are both convinced that each of us trained the other one. He thinks he squeaks at me and I hop up and feed him, which is exactly what happens. But, I like to think that I have this great alarm clock who wakes me, without fail, every morning at 6:00am because that's when I choose to feed him. It's a symbiotic thing. Although, I'm not really sure what's symbiotic about a guinea pig dictating the time of day that I wake up but, I'm just going with that for now.

Here's another view, just in case you didn't get a good look before (you're looking at his nose here). One more thing, he's not nearly this cute at 5:45am. But all things considered, I'm still pretty crazy about this little guy, my daughter's guinea pig, that is.

Rain, Rain...Go Away

2010-03-03T10:17:00.000-08:00

Our 4 yo twins each have a day during the week where one goes to preschool while the other stays home. This allows me to spend one day (or at least 3 hours) every week with each of them individually. Today, I have my little Linden here with me. She's the "younger" of the two, by two and a half minutes, or "Baby B" as she was called at the time of their birth.

It's raining here today...again. Linden looked so darn cute in her yellow rain coat this morning; I asked her to let me take a few pictures and she agreed. So I'm posting this really for no other reason than to show off one of my very special blessings.

In a few minutes we are going to go into my craft studio/room where I'll work on headband orders. Linden will do me the huge favor of sorting my buttons. This is where I give her about 500 buttons and a few plastic ice trays and ask her to sort them according to color. I can't tell you how many times my daughters' little hands have sorted my buttons. In the end they all end up back in the original container where they will wait to be sorted again on another day. I love spending time with the girls as they sort buttons. The converstation almost always starts off with a detailed discussion involving our favorite buttons which are usually pink. Where the conversation goes from there is anyone's guess as, it's entirely up to the button sorter. But, I can tell you (from experience) that topics often include kittens and candy (on a good day, both).

Facebook: The Good, The Bad & The Just Plain Annoying

2010-02-24T11:42:00.000-08:00

Let me start off by saying that I'm no expert when it comes to Facebook. I've had an account for a few years but only recently (during the last year) got into the swing of things and started using it on a regular basis. I have to say that I have a love/hate relationship with Facebook. Here's a little list of some of the Facebook pros and cons that I, as a relatively new user, have encountered.

Pro: I can find old friends from high school
Con: Old friends from high school can find me

Pro: On fb, I recently found out that an old classmate graduated from Harvard!
Con: I didn't

Pro: It's a great way to kill a little spare time
Con: I have no spare time and my laundry production level is in the toilet.

Pro: I can see friends' personal photos
Con: I feel like a voyeuristic weirdo while I'm looking at friends' personal photos

Pro: It breaks down the walls between friends, family members, co-workers and old classmates
Con: I love those walls. I've never once called my grandmother, best friend from second grade, old boss, the guy who "tutored" (wink, wink) me in college Chemistry and my Priest to say, "Hey, do you guys all want to get together for coffee? We have so much catching up to do."

Pro: It's free
Con: Heroin is usually free too, in the beginning that is, and then they get you hooked and suddenly there's a price. I'm keeping an eye out for my fb invoice in my email "in" box. I realize that they make money on the advertising, just stay with me here.

Pro: Your spirits can be lifted when, out of the clear blue, an old friend "friends" you
Con: It feels like a kick it the gut when someone "unfriends" you. "Unfriending", c'mon now, is that not the most passive aggressive way of breaking up with someone ever (in a friend kind of way)? Leaving a phone message is more confrontational, waaay more confrontational. I fully expect Hallmark to develop a line of greeting cards: "Heard you were recently 'unfriended'...Please just know that I'm here for you during this difficult time." By the way dear readers, did you know that Hallmark has a line of greeting cards for people who have recently gone to or come out of rehab? Seriously, they do, I came across them the other day...I digress.

Pro: One can adjust their settings for privacy and other preferences
Con: I've adjusted many setting but, who knows how to adjust all of them? I've come across so many facebook posts where people have written some pompous statement like, "Learn about your facebook settings before you go complaining about Farmville! All you need to do is..." followed by some lengthy task list that will supposedly block applications (I swear, I was doing everything in my power to go without mentioning "Farmville" in this post, my efforts were futile). Sure, I'll sit down and spend hours trying to understand all of my facebook settings right after this thrilling game of Dungeons and Dragons. Because really, it's only the geekiest of fb users who understand all those settings. (I just totally aged myself with the Dungeons and Dragons comment, didn't I? I hate that. Have I mentioned that I'm still in my thirties and will be for another three and a half months. You know everyday counts when a person starts using half months, for example: "How long did you live with your husband's parents?" "About three and a half months"....."How long have you been without the use of your legs?" " About three and a half months"....."How long before you turn forty?" "About three and a half months"...)

Pro: You can put your best foot foward and only share the good stuff. For instance, you don't ever see anyone post their mug shot, holiday weight gain status or detailed divorce proceedings.
Con: The people with whom you are the closest are laughing at your status posts because they know what's really going on.

So in summary, (not because I'm finished but, because my twins are about to kill eachother), let me just say that overall I enjoy fb and have also, found it so very helpful when it comes to networking. I am sincerely flattered when someone "friends" me and I welcome it. I love staying in touch with people who, I know, would be distant without facebook. And honestly, when it comes to doing laundry, I'll take any excuse I can find to get out of doing it, facebook seems to do quite nicely.

Quickly, I wanted to share a link to a blog called: Ignite Living. I came across it when I was doing a little fb research. It's written by a man named, Charlie Pabst. He wrote a post about fb. He's pretty hilarious but, unfortunately, he hasn't written much lately. I'm trying to get him to write more, and by "trying" I mean that I dropped him a line on fb in hopes that he will stop whatever it is he's doing and write something that will make me laugh. Wonder if he would consider writing my etsy listing descriptions...ah, pipe dreams.

http://www.igniteliving.com/

Reformed Disney Hater

2010-02-21T06:35:00.000-08:00

We just spent three days in Disneyland. As far as the title of this post, I realize that using the words "Disney" and "hate" in the same title may seem a bit dramatic but, it's true. I really disliked all things Disney for the longest time. I felt that Disney was nothing more than a giant conglomeration set on filling the minds of innocent children with ideas that they needed to buy, or have their parents buy, every new toy, doll, costume or movie upon which they could plaster their name. And worse, I felt that Disney was irresponsible for presenting the princess image to young girls. I of course, knew that it was a lie and I suppose I thought that children should know the same. My mind was made up.

But then something happened, I had a child and then another and two and a half minutes later, a third. We had three daughters in two years (we managed this by having twins). As the girls moved from infancy into toddlerhood and began to gravitate towards anything that was either pink or sparkled (preferably both) my perception began to soften.

Yet, when the idea of going to Disneyland recently came up, I have to admit that I still sort of surprised myself when I jumped on it rather than trying to convince everyone to go to Yosemite or one of our other favorite travel destinations. I wanted to go to Disneyland for one reason, that being, that I knew that the girls would love it. That was all that mattered. I thought I would go along and tolerate Disneyland, but I found that I didn't need to "tolerate" it all because what I discovered was, I really loved it. I loved it because I was able to see it through my daughters' eyes. They were in heaven and I got to watch.

Yes, while there, the girls were able to meet the "real" Snow White, Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty who all managed to marry the perfect guy and live happily ever after, having never spent a day in college. We rode "It's a Small World" where children from every continent are represented as singing happily about the things we all share, while leaving out the many things we don't. It's blatantly obvious that Disneyland doesn't represent an ounce of reality. But today, I realize that our girls have a lifetime to learn about life's realities. And that they can learn about those things with an occasional break in Disneyland. And really, isn't that what Lilly fabric does for me? It definitely takes me to a happy place. I've come to the conclusion that it's part of my job, as their mom, to realize how lucky I am to live in a place where my children are able to enjoy their childhood and to, sometimes, just sit back and let them while enjoying the view.

Happiest Place on Earth

2010-02-15T00:32:00.000-08:00

Had to wish everyone a happy Valentine's Day. So, Happy Valentine's Day! We are at the Disneyland Hotel. We are here with my in-laws (a treat from Grandpa, so sweet of him). The girls are in heaven. I have lots of photos and will share once we get home. Tomorrow, I'm trading in "foot fashion" for "foot comfort". You would think (at age 39) I would have figured this out by now. I always give the cute sandals the first chance. I think it's only fair.

Thatchers' Fine Timeless Fabric

2010-02-11T09:07:00.000-08:00

Thatchers' Pink Box

Here's a little basic information regarding vintage Lilly Pulitzer fabric patterns. If this is a review for you, please just read along patiently while appreciating the fact that I've kept this short, as I could go on and on about it.

Suzie Zuzek dePoo, Martha dePoo and Leigh Martin Hooten are three artists who designed patterns for Key West Hand Print Fabrics(KWHPF)through out the 1960s, 70s and into the 1980s, during which time, KWHPF produced fabric for Lilly Pulitzer. Key West Hand Print Fabrics was founded in 1961 by Jimmy Russell and Peter Pell. Mr. Pell did coloration for KWHPF.

They, as fabric designers, had license to use their own artistic vision when they created prints for Lilly and they did! This is no more true of anyone than Suzie Zuzek dePoo who created the vast majority of Lilly patterns throughout the 1960s, 70s and 80s while she maintained her position as head designer for KWHPF for nearly twenty five years. Martha dePoo and Leigh Martin were also very influential and created a multitude of beautiful patterns that were used by Lilly.

I've collected (DH would say "purchased", I prefer "collected") hundreds of vintage fabric patterns by the above mentioned artists from the period when they created prints for Lilly. I love them, I cherish them. If the house was burning down (God forbid), I'd likely run right by the wedding photos and grab my vintage Lilly fabric...I'm just being honest here.

Below are examples of patterns done by the three mentioned artists during the 1970s. The three patterns on the left were done by Suzie Zuzek dePoo, the pattern on the top right was done by Leigh Martin Hooten and the lower right pattern was done by Martha dePoo.Vintage Lilly Pulitzer Fabric designed by: Suzie Zuzek dePoo,

Martha dePoo and Leigh Martin Hooten

I've always been under the impression that the only additional patterns that I might come across would be through online auction sites or through the occasional person who finds me, through my shop, to tell me that their Floridian Grandmother has "all this really bright old fabric" and that they'd like to sell it (I love those people by the way).

I never imagined that someone could somehow manage to get three original Lilly artists to collaborate and design fabric today. But, I'm so happy to say that that is exactly what a woman, by the name of Becky Smith, did. She wanted to create fabric that had the same style as our beloved vintage Lilly prints. So, rather than looking for someone who could mimic those patterns, she went straight to the source and met with Suzie Zuzek dePoo, Leigh Martin Hooten and Martha dePoo, who agreed to design patterns for her. To put it casually (because after all, this is a blog), this is a really big deal folks!

Becky contacted me a few months back and informed me of her fabric and more specifically of, her chair, "The Thatcher". She received my name from Martha dePoo, with whom I'd been in contact because I had a few questions regarding vintage Lilly fabric. I actually had a few hundred questions but, I managed to keep it to a minimum. Ms. dePoo was nice enough to take time to answer my questions and realized that I might (ha! might) have an interest in Thatchers' new fabrics. I'm so grateful that she made the connection.

So, after a few conversations with Becky and taking time to look at Thatchers' web-site, I requested her company's "Pink Box" which is filled with fabric swatches. Once I received it, I was able to actually feel the fabric and get a first hand look at the prints. The fabric has such a nice soft texture and the patterns are gorgeous. There are four patterns in varying colors. I have to admit that my favorite pattern is "Les Trois Princesses De Le Mer" (translation for those of us not fluent in French: "The Three Princesses of the Sea") which is covered with mermaids (I happen to like the pink and green version the best, although the green and pink is nice too). The pattern shows mermaids who are engaged in a variety of activities including, sitting on a shell while looking into a mirror, talking on a shell-phone and, of course, taking time out to cuddle a pet sea horse. It's just too fun.

The fabric, in textile terms, is a cotton glazed chintz. It's upholstery quality so, you may have drapes made, through your designer, for your entire house. If you're not in need of window treatments, you might consider using the fabric to have pillows made or benches covered or seat cushions or upholstered headboards or...you get the point. It's produced in a fabric Mill that's located in Southern France. Obviously, for Becky, who lives in St. Louis, this wasn't a choice based on convenience. She spent a great deal of time searching for a manufacturer who could make the highest quality fabric. She ended up going with the French Mill that actually produced fabric for her very own great-great grandmother years earlier. So they came with a pretty high recommendation. This also allows her to travel to and from France on a regular basis...which, I'm guessing didn't hurt.

Keep in mind though, that it wasn't just the desire to create amazing fabric that drove Becky. She initially set out to make a great chair. But, this was not going to be just any chair. It is a "bespoke" chair, meaning that they are custom made and decidedly not mass produced. The chair that she created is, of course, upholstered in her "timeless" fabric. It is a chair made with the belief that it will become a cherished family heirloom. This chair is so special, it's been given a name, it's appropriately known as, "The Thatcher". It can be seen in the photo below. No, this photo wasn't taken in my living room, it came from Thatchers'.

The "Thatcher"

I want one of these chairs for every room in my house. I'm not sure how to incorporate it into my somewhat rustic style kitchen with its copper farm-house sink but, just give me some time and I'll figure out a way.

If you love this fabric as much as I do, please take the time to visit Thatchers' web-site and be sure to read more about the fabric artists during your visit. See link below.

http://www.thatchersfinetimelessfabric.com/

Pink & Green giveaway winner!!

2010-02-10T13:06:00.001-08:00

Hello and thanks to all of you who entered the Preppy Pink & Green giveaway. I love doing giveaways and already have the next one in the works. The winner for the Feb. 10th giveaway is:

Kimresse

I'm trying to track her down to let her know. Again thanks to all who entered. Stay tuned for more!

Pink & Green Spring Giveaway!!

2010-02-09T11:00:00.000-08:00

Spring is here!! I couldn't be happier because I live for Spring. Okay, so I realize that it's a tad bit early. According to my calendar the official fist day of Spring will be March 20. But, I consider that to be a minor technicality and really, who has time for technicalities? My daffodils tell me everything that I need to know. The approximate 1,500 daffodils that we've planted on our property over the years have now breached the surface of the soil, this is all the proof I need. On that note, go and un-box those cute spring skirts and tops, yes, the ones that you just put away. It's time to wear them again, just make sure to grab a jacket when you do because, you're likely to get cold, until say...sometime around March 20th.

In celebration our annual "Daffodil Breach", I'm having a Pink & Green Lilly Pulitzer fabric headband giveaway! There are a whopping nine headbands in this particular giveaway. I make these; they can be found in my esty shop. The link is in the right hand column. I've included both vintage and contemporary Lilly prints this time. The headbands included in the giveaway can be seen in the photo above. All pink, green and Lilly. What more could you want to kick off the beginning of Spring?

Here's how you can enter to win:
1. Follow, all followers will be entered in the drawing to win.
2. Comment on this post. It's good for a second entry thus doubling your chance of winning.
3. Go Blog about it! Mention this giveaway on your blog, tell me about it and your name is entered a third time. Thus, tripling...oh, you can do the math.

The drawing will be held on Wed, Feb. 10. The winner will be notified via email and the winner's name will also be announced here on Feb. 10. Good luck!!

Kate Puck Jewelry Giveaway!

2010-02-09T09:38:00.000-08:00

I met a woman through etsy who designs the most beautiful sea inspired jewelry. Her name is Kate. Here are a few examples of her work. She has an etsy shop: www.katepuck.etsy.com She is currently having a Valentine's giveaway (ends on 2/14)through her facebook fan page (for the necklace seen below). Become a fan on her facebook fan page and your name will automatically be entered in the drawing to win. See link: The give away details are under the events tab.

http://www.facebook.com/katepuckjewels?v=app_2344061033&ref=search#!/katepuckjewels

2010 Golden Globes

2010-02-05T11:50:00.000-08:00

I was honored to have my items placed in the 2010 Golden Globe SWAG bags (aka goody bags). And then, I was especially flattered when I received this photo today. The woman in the photo is Kate Flannery. She is an actress from the show, "The Office" and she is seen here holding one of my Little Golden Book bags. They are exactly as they sound, handbags that I make out of Little Golden Books. The one that she's holding in the photo is, The Princess and the Pea. Kinda fun...had to share.

As it so happens, I'm busy this weekend making several more. The one I'm working on right now is titled, Let's Go Shopping!. I will have more of these in my etsy shops (Looking 4 Lilly & The Vintage Lilly) within the next few days. And yes, of course, I'll incorporate Lilly fabric where ever possible!

Lilly Cruise

2010-02-04T14:19:00.001-08:00

So, I've been thinking (this is when my husband says, "Uh-Oh"). I want Lilly Pulitzer (the company) to host a cruise. Now, of course people would pay their own way but, Lilly could act as host. You know how sometimes organizations or groups take over a ship for a specific cruise? I think it would be so much fun. If nothing else, we'd be the best dressed crew to ever set sail. I envision pink and green everywhere. It would be such a great way for Lilly lovers, from all over, to get acquainted. I've met some of the nicest women (and even a few men) through the fb Lilly fan page and would love the chance to meet some of them in person.
Perhaps this is just the rambling of a Lilly Pulitzer fan who's longing for warmer days. Regardless, I'm all for the idea. What do you think, are you on board?

I can't wait for Spring-reason 284, The Pig Skirt

2010-01-26T10:18:00.000-08:00

I saw this vintage skirt on etsy this morning and bought it immediately. I didn't dare wait for some other pink and green pig skirt-loving lady to come along and snatch it up. I'm quite certain that there was one right behind me. So, I had to share this with you. A pink and green wrap skirt with pigs...I'm in heaven! It's going to further motivate me to lose that ten (okay, fifteen) pounds that I've been working on since the first. I want it to look like an outfit, not a personal uniform for the stay-at-home mom who seems to think it's absolutely necessary to consume her daughters' left-overs, (A lot of effort goes into making instant pudding , it's seems like such a tragedy to waste it)... So, having worked on headbands and other Lilly hair accessories for three days, this seemed like a good way to treat myself...chocolate pudding not being an option.
Back to the headbands, I'm going to have a another giveaway towards the week's end. I'm not quite sure what I'm going to make. This skirt has motivated me to go with a pink & green theme so the giveaway will be in all pinks and greens...stay tuned.

Floral Headbands

2010-01-24T12:55:00.000-08:00

I've been working on these new headbands this weekend. I love these folded flower additions. The two Lilly Pulitzer patterns used here include: Princess Patch and Fern City (which is a 1970s Zuzek vintage print).

I'm going to have a number of these folded flower headbands in my two etsy shops by weeks end (I feel a give-away coming on). I'm also adding about thirty un-embellished headbands in "new" vintage patterns to my vintage Lilly etsy shop. Those will be made to order and replaced in the shop after each one is sold. I have well over one hundred vintage Lilly prints (1960-70s)on hand and am happy to finally start sharing them with vintage Lilly fans.

All told, I should emerge from my little craft studio this evening with forty new headbands, that is, if I ever manage to walk away from the computer. My husband took the girls out today. I find that when he does that, Facebook has a way of sucking me in and keeping me there for ridiculous amounts of time. I won't let it happen today...I won't. I'm going to either make tons of headbands or do laundry (Mt. Apparel as a friend calls it). Laundry or headbands?? I'm definately going with the headbands.

Vetsed Gentress

2010-01-23T15:27:00.000-08:00

I came across this Vested Gentress skirt this morning on etsy ($35). It would be in the mail on the way to my house if it were just a bit longer. I know my limits. A pink elephant skirt is fine, a pink elephant mini skirt is crossing the line. Please see link if it doesn't cross your line.

I've been making these new headbands. They are quite fun. What can one do with headbands that's out of the ordinary? You'll see tomorrow. They don't light up, I promise. They do have flowers and that's all I'll say for now.

link for skirt pictured above:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=39148551&ref=sr_gallery_2&&ga_search_query=vested+gentress&ga_search_type=all&ga_page=&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title

We have a winner!

2010-01-19T09:50:00.000-08:00

Hi all and thanks so much to those of you who entered the drawing for the giveaway. We have determined the winner by random drawing (allowing multiple entries for those who commented and picked a favorite pattern from my etsy shop). The winner is "A Redhead and her Pooch Lola". Congratulations!
There will be more giveaways in the near future. I'm working on ideas for the next one now, which will take place during the next month. Spring is coming and, as Lilly lovers, we all know what that means! The more Lilly we have, the better prepared we are...(I know ending a sentence in a preposition, shame). Regardless, the more lilly, the better! That much, we can all understand.
Congratulations again to "A Redhead and Her Dog Lola".

Busy, Busy, Busy...

2010-01-15T11:02:00.000-08:00

I've been adding to my esty shop in a rather mad fashion during the last three days. I was wiped out during the holidays plus, I wanted to increase the inventory and add new patterns anyway. Now there are several new Lilly headband prints (perhaps 30) and more on the way (see etsy shop link). I'm also attempting to phase out of ebay but, I made a new headband "You Choose the pattern" Lilly fabric headband listing there as well because I've had a few requests. I prefer selling on etsy for many reasons and am excited to open my new 1000 markets shop (coming soon). My little hobby is keeping me up at night. I'm surrounded by Lilly fabric though so I couldn't be happier.

We leave for the my sisters and the San Diego Zoo tonight. Our oldest Sadie (6) has flown but only once and that was to London when she was still very small. The twins, Linden and Hollyn (4) have never flown! Taking them on a plane just seemed a little daunting when they were small, but now we are "big girls". So we get to fly with them this evening. Linden is very confused about the idea that people can walk around on airplanes, more importantly, she doesn't understand how a flight attendant can bring apple juice to her during the flight. She'll have it all figured out by tomorrow.
http://www.etsy.com/shop/looking4lilly

Lilly Give-Away!!

2010-01-11T15:00:00.000-08:00

I'm doing a give-away! It includes all of the items seen here: three headbands, two hair cuffs and one ponytail holder. Each is made with new materials including authentic Lilly Pulitzer fabric. These are some of my favorite patterns. They are not available through Lilly or anyone else to my knowledge. I collect Lilly fabric and have a special fondness for the vintage patterns. I've used them to create these hair accessories. I'm doing this give-away to promote my etsy shop as I'm in the process of adding 45 headbands in patterns that I have not previously had available. I have a link to my etsy shop posted here on the blog in the right hand column. The headbands will be listed throughout the next few days and will remain in the shop as I will make them to order.

Here's how to enter your name in the drawing for the give-away which will be held on Tuesday, January 19th. You may have your name entered up to three times by doing the following:
1.) Follow this blog. All followers will automatically be entered in the drawing.
2.) Once you are a follower, leave a comment here telling me that you'd like to have your name in the drawing a second time.
3.) Visit my etsy shop AFTER Wed. 1/13 and "convo" me through etsy informing me of you favorite pattern out of the headbands that I have listed in my etsy shop: Looking 4 Lilly. Again, I have a link here in the right hand column.

It's that easy! I'll announce the winner on the Tuesday, January 19th and will also email the winner in order to notify them. Good luck!

Book Bags

2010-01-10T20:41:00.001-08:00

I spent a good part of the day making book bags like the one seen here. I think that they are so much fun. I've sent one off for the Golden Globe SWAG bags. The one I sent off was a Little Golden Book: "The Princess & the Pea". I plan on having at least ten in my etsy shop by weeks end. Now, I'm off to create the items or this week's giveaway. Stay tuned...

Find of the Day:

2010-01-07T15:31:00.000-08:00

So yes, other than my three girls (& husband), my main love is Lilly. But, I'm becoming a huge Vested Gentress fan and buying it up like crazy. It's right up there with vintage Lilly when it comes to preppy design only, it's not as easy to find and some of the prints are beyond insane. This is a good, albeit mild, example (the skirt in the lower photo). I love this skirt and find myself questioning, "When is the proper age for one to consider no longer wearing skirts with such things as cats, dogs, birds, alligators, owls, mushrooms (a personal favorite), strawberries, horses...etc plastered all over?"

As of yet, I haven't come up with a good answer. If there is a good answer, my fear is that I passed that age loong ago (yes, I used two o's for emphasis). My other fear is that my daughters' classmates will say, "Is your mom the one who wears those crazy clown skirts?" I realize that it's one thing to go parading around in skirts with wild patterns, it's another thing, entirely, to do it when children are involved. Even so, spring is coming, my calendar says so and I'm preparing with a ton of crazy clown skirts.

I'm tempted to post another photo here of a skirt that I just purchased in an attempt to prove my point but, I'm sort of sitting here laughing out loud (I refuse to type "lol") as I try to distinguish the two as they both have green and periwinkle cats as the main pattern! Yes, I have very distinct tastes... I'm posting it anyways. The one I purchased yesterday is yellow, there. I'm going to purchase the Vested Gentress tonight (if none of you beat me to it). Here's the link, just to play fair.

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=37282565&ref=sr_gallery_2&&ga_search_query=vested+gentress&ga_search_type=vintage&ga_page=&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title

Have you seen Susan Powell?

2010-01-04T11:45:00.000-08:00

There is a widespread search going on for this 28 year old mother of two who lives in Utah. She's been missing since Dec. 6. Her husband is considered " a person of interest" but, no charges have been filed. Here is the link which explains her story. In cooperation with her friends, I'm posting this story in order to get the word out. Please do the same.

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,581821,00.html?test=latestnews

Lilly giveaway

2009-12-31T21:30:00.000-08:00

Please drop by my friend's blog, Shopaholic in Alabama (see link below). She is doing a great Lilly giveaway right now and accepting entries until the 5th. The items can be seen above, look at all of those! Too fun. Plus, you might want to follow anyway, I do. It's a great blog by a true Lilly lover.
http://shopaholicinalabama.blogspot.com/2009/12/lilly-pulitzer-giveaway-to-start-new.html?showComment=1262323797808_AIe9_BEhckzr3D6Fw9rYiYWqhQgB_uBA-hjE4-SQnl701YmvqlSR9m0K9MXZzupHTO_Sdx2y2rrEivoSMlzrKLDY3aNoHVEm29xOOrs0Ns-n1I-m1PeWAWDFMTvHDVsAVgDodXNl8qjajsF_HjmgH3RXj392WxCrQvZ_oVwoqfijhaUWkTyHyu2DkW602mW6raFMCLR8iOnTyaPbml643iNg25Eamc2tq3W8f7caAJKzVXFpvafqpqN1NTCQuNPO8gVQZqqJanY3#c2743099995896725923

Find of the Day:

2009-12-31T10:09:00.000-08:00

In honor of New Years Eve, I'm posting a link for this amazing dress that I came across on etsy. There are so many people on etsy now who make beautiful reproduction clothing. This is a lovely example (see link for details).
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=36103429&ref=sr_gallery_15&&ga_search_query=50s+dress&ga_search_type=handmade&ga_page=7&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title

Find of the Day:

2009-12-30T10:34:00.000-08:00

Is there such a thing as "too much pink"? I don't think so. I love this 1950's coat that I came across on ebay (see link below).
http://cgi.ebay.com/PINK-COAT-Vintage-Wool-Peter-Pan-Mod-DUMAS-50s-60s_W0QQitemZ350298644904QQcmdZViewItemQQptZVintage_Women_s_Clothing?hash=item518f6d21a8

Find of the Day:

2009-12-29T11:18:00.000-08:00

Saw this sweet vintage girl's dress on etsy. Should fit a girl sized 10-12. See link below for details.
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=34446438&ref=sr_gallery_11&&ga_search_query=girls+tulip+dress&ga_search_type=all&ga_page=2&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title

Find of the Day:

2009-12-28T10:36:00.001-08:00

Came across these on etsy. I'm loving vintage dishes right now. These are currently on etsy for $14. See link below.

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29598102&ref=sr_gallery_21&&ga_search_query=pink++kitchen&ga_search_type=vintage&ga_page=3&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title

Find of the Day:

2009-12-27T12:44:00.001-08:00

I fell in love with this dress when I ran across it this morning on etsy. I think it's lovely. See link for details.
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=37193069&ref=sr_gallery_10&&ga_search_query=50s+full+dress&ga_search_type=vintage&ga_page=&includes[]=tags&includes[]=title

Find of the Day:

2009-12-25T23:21:00.000-08:00

I came across this great vintage pink washing machine on ebay. This makes me so grateful for modern amenities. I think it would make such a cool planter or something along those lines. See link below.

http://cgi.ebay.com/VINTAGE-PINK-TIN-WASHING-MACHINE-BY-WIZARD-WORKS_W0QQitemZ190360637003QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item2c5260ce4b

Find of the Day:

2009-12-23T14:32:00.000-08:00

Love this dress. I saw it on etsy (see link below). Seller says there are no tags. I've requested a close up photo. As you probably guessed, I'm hopeful it's a Lilly, certainly looks like it. We'll see...If you get it before I do, please let me know.
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=30795277

Find of the Day:

2009-12-22T21:17:00.000-08:00

When I was growing up, in the 1970s, my grandmother had these blue Siamese cat wall pockets in her bathroom. They were vintage (before we used the word "vintage") even back then. They had jewels for eyes and fur around their ankles. They were about as tacky as they could be and I thought that they were absolutely wonderful! I promise that, if I ran across those Siamese cats in an antique store or thrift shop today, I would buy them in a heart beat. I haven't the slightest idea as to what became of my grandmother's cats. I was too young to tell her that, if she ever decided to replace them with something, say, a little less dated, I would love to have them. I don't dare complain though, because, while I never received the cats from my grandmother, I'm happy to say that at the age of 39, I still have my grandmother. She and my Grandfather recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary, yes, 70th.
When I saw these, I immediately thought of my grandparents, who will be here for Christmas which, in my opinion,is far better than any wall pocket.

I saw these little, pink, vintage elephant wall pockets (1950s-60s) on ebay, see link below. I think that these would make amazing decor pieces for some one's bar (if you happen to have one). Remember what Jack London said about pink elephants?

http://cgi.ebay.com/Wall-pockets-Pink-Elephants-Mom-2-Babies_W0QQitemZ200420571699QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item2ea9ff3a33

Find of the Day

2009-12-20T12:11:00.001-08:00

Love this apron. It's pink, green and darling. Especially if you know someone who was born in 1973! I missed the mark by a few years otherwise, I'd buy this one. I might anyways as I just love it. See link below:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=280439381765&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

Find of the Day

2009-12-19T11:20:00.000-08:00

It's not pink or green but, it's amazing. I saw this bedspread, which is currrently listed on ebay, last night. It's about as vintage as you can get. I love it. See link below.

http://cgi.ebay.com/VINTAGE-BLUE-PEACOCK-FLORAL-CHENILLE-BEDSPREAD_W0QQitemZ370298106740QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item56377cb374

Find of the Day

2009-12-18T09:59:00.000-08:00

While I think the price is pretty steep on this Lilly dress ($199), I think it deserves mention because it's absolute eye candy. I came across it on ebay. See link below:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=120424088126&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT

Find of the Day:

2009-12-17T10:58:00.000-08:00

Find of the Day:
How cool are these old mixing bowls in pink? They are vintage pyrex in the "Gooseberry" pattern. I saw them on ebay. See link below.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Vintage-Pyrex-Pink-Goosberry-Nesting-Mixing-Bowls_W0QQitemZ110470614707QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item19b88fceb3

Find of the Day

2009-12-16T19:46:00.001-08:00

On the facebook group, We Love Vintage Lilly, I've been posting a "Find of the Day". It's always a vintage Lilly item that I've come across while on-line and it's always available. I'm going to do the same thing with this blog, only with a twist. It won't necessarily be a Lilly Pulitzer item, or a vintage item. It will however, be very cool and available. It might be vintage; it might not. Here is today's Find of the Day: (copy and paste the link below). It's a pink & green vintage Christmas tree. I love it.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Vintage-Pink-Aqua-Ornaments-16-White-Bottle-Brush-Tree_W0QQitemZ220525261231QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item33585471af

No such thing as Santa?

2009-12-03T22:35:00.000-08:00

Today, just like everyday, I picked our daughter up from school. She's six. As we were driving away from her school, she said something that caught me off guard. She told me that one of her friends informed her that Santa wasn't real and that "there was no such thing as Santa". It took every bit of restraint I had to not break the silence that followed with the thoughts that flooded my head. But instead, I somehow managed to let her finish.

Sounding a little indignant, she told me that she asked her friend, "Well, isn't magic real? Isn't love real?" I was somewhat blown away, especially because she sounded a little irritated. It was as if she felt obligated to stick up for Santa. Honestly, I didn't know what to say. But, I didn't have to say anything, because at that point she said, "You know, just because you can't see them, doesn't mean they're not real." And then solidly putting the issue to rest she said, "Germs are real."

I fall in love with this little girl a little more each day. And yes, just like love and germs, Santa is very real.

Lost & Found

2009-11-29T10:08:00.000-08:00

We spent Thanksgiving at My sister's house. She and her family live in Southern California. We were really looking forward to the trip and had everything ready to go last Sunday. The car was loaded, the girls were fed and I'd made everyone hit the potty to avoid stopping ten minutes down the road. But just as we were getting ready to walk out the door, our six year old daughter(and hamster owner), Sadie, yelled, "The hamster's gone!".

Sure enough, the hamster (who shall remain nameless, mostly because he remains nameless) had, somehow, managed to get out of his cage (it's likely that the last person to feed him accidentally left the latch open, that would be me). So the whole family spent the next two hours searching for the hamster and trying to remind each other to keep the doors shut so the cat didn't come in and find the hamster first. We looked everywhere. We each took a part of the house and worked as a team, but still, no hamster.

Finally, I decided to put food and water in several conspicuous places throughout the house and hope for the best. Then, much to my daughter's dissatisfaction, we left.

We were at my sister's for nearly a week and there were a number of occasions that Sadie teared up because she was worried about the hamster's well being. She and my six yo niece got the wishbone this year. You can imagine what Sadie wished for, "I want my hamster to be okay", followed by tears. It broke my heart. I was able to console her a little as I explained that he was, most likely, having a great time with the house all to himself and that it was probably like a little party for him. But, in the back of my mind, I feared the same thing that my daughter feared.

At the end of a wonderful week, we headed for home. Once we arrived, I immediately headed for the one place where I'd left food and water thinking that it would be the most likely place for him to find it. It hadn't been touched. I then went to the opposite end of the house and saw another dish of hamster food in the distance and it too look untouched, until, I took a closer look. I realized that all of the sunflower seeds had been eaten out of the dish and then out of the corner of my eye, I saw him run by (or walk really fast, as hamsters do).

He was safe. I was able to breath a sigh of relief. I hadn't killed the hamster! Sadie was thrilled and I hadn't lied. He was having a little party, in a hamster sort of way, while we were gone. There were signs that he'd been in nearly every room.

It was one of those things that happen in life where it's not welcomed and it's an unpleasant experience, but in the end everything worked out for the best. It was also, no doubt, the best (and first) Thanksgiving our little hamster has ever had.

Old Fabric Meets Old Book & They Live Happily Ever After...The End

2009-11-19T00:16:00.000-08:00

I've been making these "Book Bags" lately. I love them. I recently used one and I noticed that it caught the eye of a few different women. Then the bravest among them approached and asked, "Oh my gosh, is that a book?" I appreciated the fact that they noticed. I'm in California though, so while they noticed that it was a book, they had very little appreciation for the vintage Lilly fabric. Most people here look at me with a puzzled expression when I mention Lilly Pulitzer...my heart goes out to them : )

Then, there are those who are familiar with Lilly Pulitzer but simply say, "I don't like it...it's way too bright for me". It's always a little awkward. It would be like me telling someone that I'm a peanut farmer and they respond by telling me that they are allergic. The conversation's pretty much over at that point.
It's unfortunate because I want to talk with people about vintage Lilly and how interesting the era was (1960s)as the country developed a different standard for the separation of classes, a subject that I find most fascinating. For me, looking at vintage Lilly fabric is similar to looking at an old photograph. It's a glimpse into the past and it makes me feel a certain way. Of course, the new Lilly print, In the Slim ,has quite literally done just that by designing a pattern that incorporates old photographs. Needless to say, I love it.

I'm eager to discuss how Lilly's fabrics symbolized wealth, yet mocked conformism and how the (beyond) colorful Lilly shift was the upper echelon's way of insinuating that, they too, were entitled to a bit of 60's frolic. Which, might be considered, by some, as an attempt to join in without getting dirty. But none of that gets discussed because all too often, the exchange stops at "It's too bright for me". I always want to say, "Yeah, me too, but it's not about that", but instead, there's usually an unspoken agreement to change the subject to something far less controversial. Politics usually seems to do nicely.

For the record, Lilly patterns were and are way too bright, and that's what I love about them. I'll borrow the words of a reader who recently said, "They are just absolute fabulousness!" (a word that requires the ignore button when doing a spellcheck). My six year old also summed it up nicely when I received a huge shipment of vintage Lilly fabric in the mail, she exclaimed, "It looks like candy!". I agree.

Back to the bags. The two bags that you see here were made with vintage Lilly (1970s). One print was designed by Pell (the pink & green). The pattern is called "Confetti". The other (blue/green with tigers)was designed by Suzie Zuzek (Who else could possibly come up with those friendly tigers?). The name of the blue/green print is "HOB". I have no idea what "HOB" stands for. I'll work on finding that out!

2009-11-19T00:15:00.000-08:00

getting so big

2009-11-14T13:23:00.000-08:00

Sadie, our six year old, lost her front tooth today. She was so excited and proud. I celebrated the joyous occasion with her and gave her a big hug. She happily ran off to show Daddy and I went in the bathroom and cried quietly for just a moment without anyone knowing.
It sounds silly and I know it. Why did I cry over something like my six year old losing a tooth? I cried, quite simply, because she's changing. She's constantly changing, but something like the loss of a tooth, especially a front tooth represents that she is no longer my baby. She's no longer any one's baby, she's a big girl now and she's starting to look like one.

It reminds me of her first day of kindergarten, which was a little over a year ago. We were prepared for her first day of school, after all, she new her letter sounds and could count to fifty. Everything was going to be just fine. And, it was. We took her to school, she was wearing a dress that we picked out for the occasion (yes, it was a Lilly), she had her new tote bag with her name on it and her lunch was packed with her favorites.

That morning, I stood there on the unfamiliar playground and watched her as she played with little children that I'd never met. She was laughing...my heart was pounding. The bell rang and the teacher came to gather the children. It was time for her to stay, more importantly, it was time for me to go. There were no tears, she didn't cry and I refused to. A quick hug goodbye and she ran off.

I left the playground and walked to my car, which was maybe 30 yards away at best. But it might as well have been miles because at that moment my heart embarked on an endless journey. I knew that I had just walked away from a little girl who wouldn't be there that afternoon when I came back. She was going to be different. She would have new friends and new teachers, when in the past, I played the role of both. This was how it was supposed to be. Everything was going as planned.

As I drove home, it became so clear to me, that the challenge in learning how to be a good mother doesn't lie in learning how to take care of a child (most of us are born with that ability), the true difficulty in learning how to be a good mother, is developing the skill needed to recognize when the time has come to allow her experience the world without me. I will always be there for her, but if I'm doing it right, she will need me less and less. Every milestone that we celebrate is bitter-sweet because each step she makes is really a step away. Sometimes I just want to grab her and keep her, that's all, just keep her.

I came back that afternoon and picked her up. On the way home she told me all about school, only stopping occasionally to take a breath. She told me about her new friends. She told me about her new teachers. She said that her favorite was Miss T and that she'd been to Africa. Miss T. was going to teach the children all about Africa. She was thrilled. I was thrilled for her. I told her how wonderful it all sounded and that I was so happy that she liked her new school, and I sincerely was. I still am.

Tonight she'll put the tooth under her pillow and the tooth fairy will come. She'll leave something for Sadie and then she'll put the tooth in my jewelry box (we have an agreement). I'm guessing Sadie will get $5 for her tooth, after all, it is a front tooth. She'll spend it on a toy or perhaps a new gold fish and the money will be gone. I, on the other hand, will save her tooth forever, even though I know she no longer needs it.

Driving Miss Lindy (& Miss Hollyn)

2009-11-08T23:34:00.000-08:00

I used to work (outside the home). For many years, I was a mental health case manager. I provided case management services for mentally ill, homeless adults. Before that, I worked as a counselor in a locked psychiatric facility. Before that, I was a student/waitress (mostly waitress, if I'm being honest). My point is, in my life, I've been party to some rather odd conversations.
But nothing, in all my years, has prepared me for some of the conversations that take place in my minivan (yes, my minivan) as I drive my 4 yo twin daughters from place to place.
Case in point:
The setting: While in our minivan I see someone I know. He's walking into the grocery store as we are driving away from the store and I wave.
The conversation went as follows:
Twins: "Why did you wave at that man?"
Me: "He's a friend of Mommy's."
Twins: "But why do you have to wave at him?"
Me: (after pausing to think my reply through) I explain the importance of acknowledging the people we know when we run into them and how it's the courteous thing to do and then, while allowing her time to soak in my pearls of wisdom, I anxiously await her reply...
Twin A: "Are jellyfish born?"
Me: Realizing that my "pearls of wisdom" weren't soaked in at all, but rather bounced and that we have seriously shifted gears yet, still determined to handle the situation, I say, "That's a good question. Mommy will Google it when we get home." Proudly avoiding the "Did you hear what Mommy just said?" question, I now feel satisfied with myself again...until...
Twins: Burst into uncontrollable laughter and start to scream "Google, Google Google!!" just like that, in sets of three and continue this chant during the entire drive home because they think it sounds hilarious.

Sometimes (and this was one of them) I think that they are messing with me, but then, I remember that they are four, smile and turn up the radio. Ramble on...

Ooh La La Lilly!

2009-11-07T15:29:00.000-08:00

I've been very busy making headbands these days. I just made fifty for the American Music Awards SWAG bags (or goody bags, as they are often called). If you are wondering what SWAG stands for (I did too), it stands for Souvenirs, Wearables and Gifts. I was so excited and jumped at the opportunity. Who cares if I'm a little sleep deprived? And so what if Sadie's Girl Scout badges sit there staring at me waiting for me to sew them on her little GS Daisy vest? By the way, I tried the fabric glue for the GS patches (that endlessly flow into my house) and it just doesn't work. Not only does it not work, when the patch comes off at school (which I'm guessing takes place around 8:30 am), there's are huge dark stain where the lame mother tried to attach the patch with "glue"...go Mom! Just a little heads up for you future GS moms. Believe me, no patch is waaay better than a huge, shiny stain where the patch is supposed to be.

Back to the headbands for the AMA awards, I'm not using contemporary Lilly fabric (want to stay in good graces with the folks at Lilly), just a few vintage prints and others that aren't Lilly at all. I'm using some amazing (non-Lilly) vintage prints that I've acquired over recent months. I keep asking myself, "What would Beyonce like?" So far I haven't a clue. But, if in future months you happen to see Beyonce sporting a bright pink and green psychedelic print headband with cats on it, you can be sure that it's mine!