hart of the mountain studio

The Bride really Sparkled!

2011-12-13T18:40:00.000-07:00

An Heirloom Bauble Bouquet for Lex

Check out the photographer's blog for more gorgeous pictures of the bride and her meaningful bouquet which was created with jewelry pieces from the bride's mother, her late grandmothers, her husband's mother and grandmothers, and meaningful pieces of her own. What a treasure, and it won't wilt!
If you are interested in an heirloom bouquet, or other sparkly commission, please contact me: paula@hartofthemountain.com

photos by aimephotography.com

Glorious Song of Old (Silent Night)

2011-12-02T10:12:00.001-07:00

My beautiful and talented sister, Katherine Nelson. Enjoy!

Merry Christmas!

My name is Paula, and I'm a Mean Mother

2011-09-26T18:02:00.000-06:00

It's been only moments since I was last mean!

I didn't really realize how mean I am, as a mom, until recently and so I write this blog to my children--knowing full well that none of them read my blog, and therefore I know it will be where I can find it when the time comes that I need to direct this to their attention.

Ahem,

I have been a mean mom. I didn't plan it that way-but evidently that's how things have unfolded.

Because I am a mean mom:

I don't do your homework for you.
I don't keep track of your test schedules in high school or college.
I don't write notes in your school lunches.
I don't force you to take lessons, play sports, or audition for things.
I don't keep track of your gym clothes.
I don't plan your social life.
I don't drive you everywhere.
I don't always say yes.
I don't make dinner everynight.
I don't base my facebook status on your life.
I don't buy you designer underwear.
I don't let you use the car when you haven't earned it.
I don't pretend everything is perfect, when it is not.
I don't make decisions for you.
I don't mitigate the consequences for your decisions.
I try not to plan your future.
I don't assume you will always agree with me.
I do expect that you will extend respect and reverence for the world we live in.
I do require you to use appropriate table manners.
I do expect you to get a job in the summer after you turn 16.
I do ask you to interact with my adult friends politely and respectfully.
I do require that you are kind to others, especially those who are not like you.
I do expect that you develop your own values and know why you believe what you believe.
I do require you to contribute to the family.
I do want you to become a generous member of your community without seeking recognition for your efforts.
I do hope you will accept your divine heritage.
I do require that you follow through and finish what you start.
I do expect you to learn to find happiness in yourself.
I do believe you can be whatever you choose and expect you to believe in yourself.
I will always support your ability to choose, even when I don't agree.
I will always listen.
I will always try to listen without judgement.
I will fail sometimes.
I will always, always, always love you.

Love, your mean mom

It's Here--Belle Armoire Summer 2011

2011-07-02T11:38:00.000-06:00

I am beyond thrilled. My favorite magazine, Belle Armoire, has published an article I wrote about making my sister's wedding gown.

The amazing Stampington magazine is now available quarterly, meaning my article will be on shelves for 3 months--SCORE!

Corleone and Baby J--"Once Upon a Gown"

Nelson Sisters: Kat, Mo, Baby J, Lulu, and me.

Please read the article and tell me what you think! I love feedback. (That would be pages 18 - 22).

A little magic (and twine + glue)

2011-06-14T21:45:00.002-06:00

dave & abi

thanks for letting me be a part of this

you two are amazing

(these are just some snapshots of the process on the day of--they don't begin to do justice to the whole event or the hours and hours abi and her mom spent getting ready for it. . . pro pix to come, but for now--here's what it looked like putting it all together.)

Dresses, dresses, dresses

2011-05-21T16:14:00.001-06:00

Little Z's Prom Dress

I LOVE the gold sparkle shoes!

The back of this one was fun!

I made the yellow dress, too!

(and, yes, I stalked prom for this photo!)

drumroll . . . . . .

2011-05-18T20:40:00.001-06:00

Belle Armoire Summer 2011 is available for pre-order NOW!!!!

(you might want to hurry and get a copy, before my dad buys them all out!)

Source: stampington.com via paula on Pinterest

2 days to Prom

2011-03-16T18:12:00.001-06:00

It's not till friday night, right?

update: Project Purple Prom Dress

2011-03-12T14:41:00.000-07:00

1. So let it be written that I hate crepe back satin.

2. What was I thinking when I wrote the schedule in the earlier post?

3. It's 2:38 pm and I am still working on the neck trim.

4. Good thing prom is not tomorrow! (I have until Friday.)

Project Purple Prom Dress

2011-03-12T09:35:00.001-07:00

Here's the schedule, barring any distractions. (clears throat)

9:30 am. Prep pieces
10:00 am. Sew fronts and backs
11:00 am zipper and side seams
Noon. Fronts to backs prep for fitting
1:00 pm. Fitting. Contrasting details
2:00 pm. Sleeves, trim,
3:00 pm. Set sleeves. Fitting
4:00 pm. Lining to dress
5:00 pm. Hem and finish

We'll see

Posted from my iPhone.

My Shoulder Pads Are Back!

2011-02-26T10:17:00.001-07:00

It's true, although I've never really thought of them as shoulder pads.

They are more like prosthetics.

I am shoulder deficient.

The rounded shoulders I was born with need a little umph to boost my shoulder to hip ratio as well as my "get out there and fight like a man" chutzpah.

I mean, really, are akin to the red lipstick my grandmother used to wear.

But I digress....the reality is thanks to the runway designers of the past few seasons--shoulder pads are back, baby, and I'm loving it!

I discovered by shoulder disability in the eighties, of course, thanks to my favorite designer Norma Kamali (who's also back, by the way!)

I shed the shoulder pads sometime in the late 90's. We moved to the mountains, I went all nature girl, even shedding makeup for awhile. But, I'm back! And so are my favorite accessory! Giddy Up!

Printable Nativity Finger Puppets--now in color and B & W

2010-12-14T18:47:00.002-07:00

Print them--Laminate them--Put a Loop on the back and

Ta Da--Great Christmas Activity.

Enjoy!!

Printable Christmas Nativity Set in Color or Black and White

Yes, we all have the same Mom and Dad

2010-11-19T11:39:00.000-07:00

I am truly grateful to be a member of this crew!

from l to r: kitty kat, poo, moses, ferf, baby j, jojo, doc, thumb

Finally, A few more photos!

2010-11-12T20:03:00.001-07:00

Rebekah Westover, photographer extraordinaire,

has posted some fabulous shots of this amazing fun and fabulous event!

details

2010-10-07T16:09:00.000-06:00

The gown required some steaming before the reception at the

Sundance Rehearsal Hall.

. . . . . ahhhhhh

2010-10-06T20:40:00.000-06:00

It's turning up all over the place. . .

The gifted photographer, Rebekah Westover's Blog.

Shabby Apple's Blog (by the way, one of my sister's was wearing a Shabby Apple Dress for the Reception.

and I of course took terrible photos. I was having WAY too much fun.

Here's a snapshot of Baby J and I.

I'm not sure which dress I'm more proud of.

(My daughter, C made mine!)

almost done. . . in the nick of time

2010-09-28T09:40:00.000-06:00

I love you baby j--but you can't make any more changes! ;)

5 days

2010-09-26T15:56:00.001-06:00

Whose idea was it to put a kajillion buttons on this?? Oh yea, mine.

The jacket

2010-09-14T23:58:00.001-06:00

Did I mention the jacket?

Countdown Wedding: 18 days

2010-09-13T06:34:00.000-06:00

Here's the progress over the weekend:

Mumsie came up the mountain to help out with some beading.

Pleating the skirt to the bodice.

(The dress in the background was for Zip's Homecoming last weekend. I threw that one into the sewing mix at the last minute--turned out ok!)

Best of all--it fits and the bride is HAPPY! Now for the finish work.

Countdown wedding: 20 days

2010-09-11T13:01:00.001-06:00

Hand basting the skirt pleats into place.

Bodice: near completion

2010-09-09T22:44:00.001-06:00

One more fitting before I sew down the inner lining. Thought I would get to the skirt tonight, but .........

Sleeve Trim

2010-09-09T22:24:00.001-06:00

Countdown Wedding: 22 days

2010-09-09T20:06:00.001-06:00

Bodice back looks like it's matching up! Phew!! I didn't expect it to take so long to drape.

How many days?

2010-09-09T15:41:00.001-06:00

Good thing I finally figured out how to post blogs & photos from my iPhone!!!

Finishing the tacking on the inside if the bodice. Hoping to start skirt attachment in a couple hours!!

The Countdown is ON!

2010-09-08T06:27:00.000-06:00

T-23 days and counting. . .

I know y'all are hungry for an update--I will have one soon!

But right now, I am seeking your HELP!

I have to find a dress. The color is "black/blue" or ink, or black and blue, or midnight blue, or just really dark blue.

One sister is wearing this in Black with blue lace:

My other sister found a beautiful vintage dress similar to this in the right color with 3/4 length sleeves:

Anyone have any great ideas? Local vintage shop? help!

layers

2010-08-25T15:28:00.000-06:00

hmmmmmm . . . . .

junior high

2010-08-24T08:04:00.000-06:00

you have got to be kidding me. . . . . .

B*Rod's a seventh grader.

Project Wedding 2010 - The Muslin

2010-08-12T19:26:00.004-06:00

The bride has been measured.

The muslin has been washed and straighted.

The pattern has been adjusted, then traced onto the muslin.

The original seam lines have all been stitch traced with dark thread.

The bodice has been basted together.

The bride has tried on the muslin bodice.

The fitting changes have been made and marked.

One of the first muslin mock ups--Almost all the draping elements here have been discarded.

The boning channels have been added.

The skirt ideas have been sewn in place.

The bride has tried on the muslin/bedsheet gown.

The final muslin before final fitting.

The new fitting changes have been made and tested.

The muslin has been carefully marked, then unpicked and pressed flat.

The cutting may commence. (as soon as I find my sewing scissors. . . . . )

Fitted and corrected muslin pieces ready to be cut out of fabric, lining, and underlining.

Project Wedding 2010-Tea Dying the Silk

2010-08-11T19:26:00.000-06:00

16 yards of 54" wide ivory silk taffeta

1 bathtub and 50 tea bags

A sweaty brow, a very clean bathroom, and gorgeous warm color on the silk! SUCCESS!!

Cooper's Run

2010-08-04T08:37:00.000-06:00

Saturday, July 31, 2010

Cooper's Run

The Kofford Family welcoming all to Cooper's Run. LOVE was the message of the day!

Over 800 registered runners start the 5K.

Firefighters spray water at the finish line.

All the Pieces are coming Together!

2010-07-14T17:40:00.000-06:00

Gathering, planning, and bringing everything together!

including these two!

Welcome to our whacked out world, my friend!

Buckle up, it's going to be a wild ride.

So let it begin.. . .

2010-07-12T15:38:00.001-06:00

Hand beading the lace. . . a labor of love!!

This is the first of many!!!

(I know, I'm an overachiever!)

Go get 'em, girl!! 143

2010-07-07T19:32:00.000-06:00

That's my girl!!

On the Road Again

2010-06-30T12:40:00.001-06:00

GeoTagged, [N40.27604, E111.77143]

Day 1--driving to Cali with my eldest, to help her move in and embark on her new adventure at The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising.

We are learning all kinds if interesting things in our travels. Will update again soon!

Overnight Skin Care--even for Acne!

2010-06-21T15:43:00.002-06:00

Have I mentioned how amazing Skincerity is for skin problems like acne or eczema?

Overnight Answer to Acne

Baby Sister's Getting Married

2010-06-14T16:59:00.001-06:00

This is one of those moments in time I have dreamed about over and over again.

Not my own daughter's wedding, but the upcoming nuptials of my little sis.

I do think about that someday when my girls will find someone to spend their lives with,and frankly, it makes me a bit tired.

(Let's be honest, you know Scotty will be doing all the catering, and I'll be holding down the circus tents!)

But I digress, this is about Baby J.

I was graduating from high school the week baby J was born.

And in those years in between, I have watched this little gal grow up

into a beautiful accomplished woman,

who has finally met the man of her dreams.

(that's you, corleone)

With 7 older siblings, all married with children,

(28 nieces and nephews)

Baby J is the littlest red head at my wedding.

Baby J has been a part of a lot of weddings.

Still the littlest redhead at my brother's wedding.

Now it's her turn.

And, to be honest,

I'm a much better designer/dressmaker now.

After all those chances to practice

on wedding gowns in the past--

this one will be far and away, the best yet.

I can't wait to be surrounded by the silk, beads, lace, linings and pearls--it'll be creative nirvana.

Thanks, Baby J, for including me in your plans.

Like you said--

"Let the games begin......Shlabadabadee, shlabadabadoo!!!!!"

Yes, It's June Dear

2010-06-09T16:44:00.001-06:00

Finally,

I was afraid we wouldn't see the tulips till July.

I love the beginning of summer.

Flowers, swimming, hot cars, friends and outdoor concerts!

On Saturday

we attended a carnival gathering

at a local shopping spot

that my baby sister's significant other

(are we safe with that?)

organized.

It was a blast!

My favorite part was

when the band announced their drummer was too sick to play

and my fabulous brother, d.l.,

stepped up,

took the sticks,

and finished out the set.

Like Zippy said,

"You know your family's legit when your uncle can fill in the band."

He rocked it!!!

Love you Davey!! Thanks for bringing the beat!

p.s. To Corleone:--Thanks for a very fun Saturday pm!

you did a fabulous job! :)

Seriously Amazing Skin. . .

2010-06-07T22:24:00.000-06:00

OK, so let's be honest

I'm still spinning plates

and certainly don't need to be adding

any extra tableware to the mix,

BUT

a friend talked me into trying this product,

and now I'm hooked.

The nitty gritty: my pores are tiny, and my skin is amazing!

I'm so freakin' excited about this stuff, I'm selling it.

(hence the additional plate in the act)

Check out the website, and let me know if you have any questions!

My Baby's not a Baby anymore.

2010-06-04T09:50:00.000-06:00

B*Rod graduated from 6th Grade.

Too good to wait

2010-05-14T14:31:00.001-06:00

I couldn't wait until I was in front of my computer to exclaim--HURRAY!!!
B*Rod's teacher reported a GREAT day as of lunchtime. We are moving in the right direction!!

Woot woot!!

Plate Spinning

2010-05-12T17:05:00.001-06:00

My dad called me for my birthday this week.

(let's not discuss it)

When he inquired as to what I'm doing,

I replied that I'm spinning plates.

It seems I've got quite a few plates in the air,

and I am just racing back and forth across the stage,

trying to keep them all spinning aloft.

One of these days,

one of those plates is going to take off.

When that finally happens,

I can let the others drop and ride the jet stream of the airborne dinnerware.

Until then,

I'll just keep 'em spinning!

Looking for techniques?

Learn to spin plates

this week's plates: B*Rod home from school, dyeing fabric and lace for Baby Brown Eye's dress, aging silk to match aged designer gown, finish altering designer gown, sew footballs for Haiti orphans, write blogs, motivate kids, make onion bread, maybe clean house, lunch with sistas, sketches and designs for retail project, research and development on new tools. . . . .and they just keep spinning.

Note to self: Wear shoes!

Change Is A Challenge

2010-05-02T19:52:00.000-06:00

B*Rod, our 12 yo Aspie son with ADHD is struggling with change.

Our recent tour of the Midway docked in San Diego.

But then, don't we all?

For B*Rod, the change is chemical, as we are trying to find the right mix of medication to help him successfully navigate the many sensory stimulations that overwhelm his life. As a result of these changes to his system, his behavior is ALL OVER THE PLACE: Emotional, aggressive, hyper, lethargic, overstimulated, bored, and best of all, incredibly annoying. I think maybe the doctor should have prescribed something for his father and I, so that we could positively face these changes and challenges, every hour, all day, every day.

Isn't change a similar experience for all of us. Sometimes not quite so dramatic as to run the litany of emotions and reactions all in a single hour, but a roller coaster of emotions nonetheless. And with B*Rod's change, as well as the many changes and challenges we navigate in our lives, there will be a light at the end of the tunnel, but sometimes that light is hard to see through tears and frustration.

But it is there.

Knowing that,

counting on that,

gets us through every day.

As a result of all this chemical craziness, some of the musings heard from B's room are pretty funny. I'll share a few here over the next few weeks as we wait out the half life of these meds.

**a phone call from school, "Mom, I am really sick. My throat hurts, and I keep coughing, (exaggerated cough) and my torso is really bothering me. I think I have a tapeworm. I better come home."

" I am going to rally my friends to get a movie made this summer."

**a few days ago, during a particularly stressful argument he would only speak ( or yell ) Tatooine, a language from Star Wars. Scary thing is he was pretty convincing after about 90 minutes.

**during another meltdown moment, "I just wish I didn't have this condition. This disorder is so hard. It makes me think about too many things at one time." wow, he nailed that one!

A Victory and a Setback

2010-04-19T19:48:00.001-06:00

Project Prom was a huge success.

I was exhausted,

but absolutely thrilled to see Zip so pleased

and to hear the fun comments she received all evening.

but

what goes up

must

come

down!

today's down was the lengthy email from B*Rod's teacher regarding his behavior.

really??

hello--let me introduce you to my cat.

Project Prom--COMPLETE!!

2010-04-17T17:58:00.000-06:00

Phew!

(randall, I have no idea how you do this week in and week out!)

Project Prom--Sat. 5:19 pm

2010-04-17T17:20:00.002-06:00

Dress, finished.

Purse, found.

Hair, done.

Now, I'm just waiting for make up so we can put it all on and take pix.

(I can't believe it's done.)

Project Prom--Sat. 3:03 pm

2010-04-17T15:08:00.000-06:00

Well it's almost done, FINALLY.Getting even closer, just a few more things to add, but it's moving right along.

Project Prom--Sat. 10:53 am

2010-04-17T10:57:00.000-06:00

Pretty One speaking here! I am helping my gorgeous mother update her blog! So hope all y'all readers get ready, cause this is going to be fun! ;)

Project Prom--Sat. 10:07 am

2010-04-17T10:15:00.000-06:00

fell asleep at 3 am, didn't get up till 8--burning daylight! zipper installed--my assistants are driving me crazy, but are glitzing bracelets so I'll keep them--they are better than nothing. My favorite daughter, the Pretty One is probably my most hardworking assistant, she does everything I tell her to do! Oh I love her!

Project Prom--Sat. 2:31 am

2010-04-17T02:33:00.000-06:00

It's getting closer, but then so is prom. I'm tired, but wired so I won't be able to sleep--might as well keep working. Good thing there is an all night Law & Order Marathon, or I'd be stuck with infomercials.

Project Prom--Friday 7:08pm

2010-04-16T19:09:00.000-06:00

Skirt and Bodice frame attached!

Project Prom Friday 5:45 pm

2010-04-16T17:46:00.000-06:00

Project Prom--Friday 4:36 pm

2010-04-16T16:36:00.002-06:00

Prom 2010

2010-04-16T15:29:00.000-06:00

Draped and pinned--Thursday Noon

We are down to 26 hours before the date shows up at our door.

Will the dress be done?

Lining Friday 3:28 pm MDT

Stay tuned!!

Phew, A Fabulous, Frantic, and Fun Week

2010-04-14T09:40:00.000-06:00

Am I really back?

I guess the foot of snow on the ground should be my first clue.

What a whirlwind.

We made it to and from San Diego in tact

and with a myriad of stories to tell!

It may take a few posts to get them all in,

and if you've been following my twitter updates,

then you have had a taste of

"The Trip That Kept On Giving!!"

First off, however, I need to get some housekeeping out of the way!

To the amazing women I met teaching classes both in San Diego and Orange Counties, I am working on your patterns so they can be easily accessed and downloaded. I am also working on some photo and video tutorials for the dreaded folded rose. You should be receiving an email from me with these documents in the next couple of days and I will also post links on my website.

April Fools?

2010-04-01T09:34:00.001-06:00

I'm not a very good sport. I don't fix the peach half eggs on pound cake toast for my kids for breakfast, or try to tell some crazy story. (OK, I admit I did try the, Ha Ha I'm pregnant story a couple years ago, but it wasn't so much funny as it was terrifying.) I'm just dull that way. I don't make green pancakes for St. Patricks Day, heart shaped waffles for Valentines, and I try to avoid the hard boiled eggs for Easter (I can't stand the smell!!)

Where this fuddyduddiness comes from, I can't quite say; but as I examine my past, I am reminded of one April Fools Day, in particular.

It was April 1, 1972 and I was a cheerful seven year old red head living in a rural suburb outside of Detroit. I remember just after having breakfast, my mom was listening to the radio in the kitchen and she called me and my 5 year old sister Jenni into the kitchen. My loving mother proceeded to solemnly break the news to us that our beloved Mr. Greenjeans, great friend of Captain Kangaroo, had been in a motorcycle accident and died. We were devastated! As mom tried to explain the "joke" Jenni and I were so confused. What was this April Fools Day anyway? Afterwards, I remember wondering for days whether the Captain would mention the accident. I was just a sheltered, naive little kid who loved her morning tv and never really got the joke.

I recovered. But I'm still not a fan of April Fools Day. I feel like a big enough fool every other day of the year for one reason or another--I certainly don't need a special day to drive the concept home. That's what birthdays are for!!

Ivy Maude--Home at Last

2010-03-30T19:05:00.000-06:00

My sister, Morinda, has penned what we hope

is the happy conclusion to Ivy Maude's story:

"I hope that this is the last installment in the story of Maudie's trauma and recovery, but grateful to my dying day that it's not the last installment in the story of her life. Today she came home. I almost can't believe it. After suffering respiratory failure twice, she made it home. At first I had concerns that the trauma would leave lasting scars on her little person. She spent almost two days refusing to look at me or respond to any of the things that previously would trigger great excitement. But today as we pulled up in front of our home, a little light went on in her eyes. Her brother Eli came running from across the street calling her name, with arms wide open and in that moment she smiled. Perhaps the most beautiful sight a mother could possibly dare to hope for. Although her body is weak and will take some time to recover from being paralyzed for 7 days, in the few hours we've had her home, she has smiled, laughed, and sung "Happy Birthday" (her favorite song). And so with the deepest gratitude and love for you, my friends who are more like family... and my family who are my dearest friends, I am happy to announce that IVY MAUDE IS HOME.

Thank you. Every single prayer has meant something to us. Thank you."

San Diego Area Classes

2010-03-29T16:36:00.001-06:00

One week left to sign up for the

Floral Necklace Class

or the

Felt Purse Class

at Stamping Details in Poway.

Monday, April 5th

1:30 pm and 6:00 pm

Join me for both classes if you can!!

See you in the sun!

If you live in the Provo Area, and would like to attend

one of my classes--Please leave a comment with your email

so that we can get one scheduled!!

The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow. . .

2010-03-29T09:56:00.000-06:00

This is a line from a song Morinda (Ivy's mom) used to bring down the house with when she was just a little older than Ivy. The sentiment is too true!

Yesterday, Palm Sunday, Ivy was able to venture outside for a little sunshine.

And later that evening, her daddy, sisters, and brother were able to visit.

The best news of all: Ivy gets to go home TODAY!!

A very special thank you for all the prayers, visits, phone calls, and good thoughts and energy. After spending a week in ICU, Ivy Maude will be going home. Morinda and Brigham appreciate the love and support so many have generously shared. THANK YOU!!!

"Today was Miraculous!"

2010-03-26T19:07:00.000-06:00

Ivy went into the OR this morning at 7:15 and after determining that her airway was clear, doctors were able to remove her breathing tube.

3-26-2010 - 10:30 a.m. just out of the OR

Morinda was finally able to hold her baby girl.

3-26-2010 6:30 p.m. -

"Today has been miraculous!"

Ivy Maude - Day 7

2010-03-25T09:17:00.001-06:00

Ivy's mom has another update.

"Day 7: She is beginning to look more and more like my girl. The swelling in her face has gone down considerably. She apparently gave the nurse a run for her money early this morning after I'd fallen asleep, when she started fighting her sedation again and lifting her arms up. She is known for being a feisty one (one nurse told me that with the amount of drugs in this kid you could sedate a small village...and she still moves!). We hate to keep her so heavily sedated but keeping her from taking her breathing tube out is essential. The only thing on the schedule today is to have the tube that has drained and treated the cysts, removed. The doc is confident that we have done enough treatments to see an improvement, even if its over a long period of time.

"Tomorrow will be a big day. She will be taken to the OR where they will scope her windpipe to make sure it is unobstructed. If so and things look good, her breathing tube will be removed and they will see if she can breathe on her own. If its still a little difficult for her we will make the transition in baby steps. So today we just watch her and try to keep her as calm as possible in preparation for tomorrow.

We feel a lot of love from a lot of people right now. Thank you."

Beautiful

2010-03-24T16:43:00.000-06:00

Doctors are hoping they can extubate on Friday.

We love you Ivy!!

From Ivy's Mom

2010-03-23T21:13:00.002-06:00

My sister, Morinda, gave me permission to share her words

and together we ask for your love and prayers for little

Ivy Maude.

"Ivy Maude was life-flighted from Utah Valley IHC Hospital to Primary Children's Medical Center Friday, March 19, 2010. She turned blue and lost consciousness for almost 8 minutes in my arms before being rushed into the OR to be intubated. Her mysterious raspy breathing had stumped her doctor for almost a month. She had been hospitalized previously and no answers were found and now, almost a month later she is in the hospital fighting for her little life.

"After arriving at Primary Children's she was immediately given chest ex-rays and a CT scan where there was found 3 large masses in her chest. Macro-cystic lymphatic malformations are what the doctors are calling these fluid filled vessels that are taking up space in her tiny chest cavity. They are very rare and even more rare are the number of cases that show up in the chest and neck like Maude's. They are compressing her little trachea and lungs. We've almost lost her twice in the last few days.

"A procedure was done to drain the fluid that filled these "cysts", and another procedure to try to reduce the size. Because there isn't very much documented info on this sort of malformation, we know very little about the outcome. She will go back to the OR this week where they will see if it is possible to remove the breathing tube and help her breathe on her own. But for now we must wait and see. If all goes well we could be home in the next week or so, but we will be coming back frequently over the next months and possibly years to see how this condition will change over time and if it continues to cause her problems.

"We have had an outpouring of love and concern from family and friends. Thank you for your love and support. Despite the gravity of this situation, we have seen the tender mercies of a loving Heavenly Father that has been a part of this process each step of the way. Every little prayer matters right now, so please say a prayer for Ivy Maude; that is the best thing anyone can do for us right now. Thanks."

Morinda and her beautiful family January 21, 2010

Ivy Maude

2010-03-22T21:01:00.002-06:00

My beautiful 20 month old niece is fighting for her life

at Primary Children's Medical Center!

Sweet baby has the doctors a bit puzzled,

but then I guess our family does enigmas a little too well.

We love you little one.

Please get well soon!

We want to see that beautiful, toothy smile again.

We have a Winner!

2010-03-16T07:46:00.000-06:00

Jenrex4

You are the lucky winner!

Please email me so I can get your particulars!

Thanks everybody for participating and for your wonderful comments!!

Get your Irish on!!

2010-03-15T09:00:00.004-06:00

Welcome to my little stop on today's hop.

For a little shamrock fun, try this card!

The shamrock is made from hearts,

leaves & pocket are stitched down with gold thread,

then everything is covered with gold glitter!

It's the perfect way to say "Top o' the Morning"

and celebrate St. Paddy's Day!

All these cute edges are simply cut with my

Purple Cows Freestyle Mouse Kit.

I adore using these blades to cut hearts from cardstock for shamrocks

as well as giving fabric a cute edge for flowers.

The Purple Cows Freestyle Mouse

is a sweet little tool

that fits in my bag for on the go trimming.

Love it!!

Scroll to the bottom of this post to download this project sheet.

Leave a comment, and kiss a blarney stone for the luck to win

my giveaway!

Now hop along over to Robin's Blog to continue your

Purple Cows St. Paddy's Day Blog Hop!

Thanks for stopping by.

Shamrock Pocket Card

Are you Ready?

2010-03-14T18:16:00.000-06:00

Sneak Peek of the Giveaway Splendor

2010-03-13T21:21:00.000-07:00

as promised, a sneak peek of my blog hop giveaway

for a chance to find this necklace on it's way to you

just leave a comment on my blog during the

purple cows blog hop

RMQBUCET49XC

At the Hop

2010-03-12T09:05:00.000-07:00

It's going to be a great way to get in the green for St. Patrick's Day!!

Thanks to Lynn for this AWESOME graphic!!

and I'll be drawing a name from the comments on this blog on March 16th to find a home for a

beautiful flower necklace!

(stay tuned for photos!!)

It's a Blog Hop

2010-03-11T09:53:00.001-07:00

When: Monday, March 15th

Where: It starts HERE, at the Purple Cows Blog

Time: 9:00 MST/11:00 EST

What: A creative journey through the blogs of the amazing design team for Purple Cows.

Why: To get ideas, to leave comments, and win stuff!!

I'll be giving away a flower necklace--check back this weekend for a preview of the prize!! Purple Cows will be giving away a prize to the lucky someone whose comment is posted on the final blog of the hop!!

Hope to hear from all 5 of you!!

Loving the Family Weekend

2010-03-10T20:07:00.000-07:00

B*Rod turned 12.

So we had a family "do".

B*Rod & C5Ice with dueling itouches,

and my gorgeous nieces!

and nephews

my dd and my sister's dd

My adult girls.

Some of my amazing sisters and sister-in-law (she's amazing too!)

My nieces love Auntie Paula Creative Sweatshop!!

My handsome man and my little niece Mimi who thinks he is "da bomb"!

I have the most wonderful and amazing family on earth!

I love you all!!

Best Kept Secret

2010-03-10T18:06:00.000-07:00

This is a secret worth telling and retelling!

My favorite tool,

the 9" Purple Cows Hot and Cold Laminator

is available at several Costco Warehouses nationwide

for $19.69.

WHAT???

and it comes with 100 laminating pockets.

It's only available for a limited time--so call your local Costco,

and see if you have one of the lucky stores in your neighborhood!!

What a Week!

2010-03-05T20:03:00.000-07:00

It's been a crazy week,

and I am feeling physically, emotionally, and cognitively exhausted.

Items of Note:

B*Rod becomes a tween and the proud owner of an apple itouch.

I had no idea there was such a plethora of

gun apps.

Good times!

Proud of my girl as she preps her application

to my alma mater, FIDM.

And LOVING all the shoulder pads

from Fashion Week

Balmain

Christian Dior

Vionnet (pre-fall 2010)

For those of us who are shoulder challenged, this is the best news yet!!

craft class anyone?

2010-02-26T12:10:00.000-07:00

calling all 5 readers:

i will be teaching a couple of classes in the

san diego area (poway)

on april 5

at Stamping Details.

i'll be doing these two projects:

floral handbag

and

floral necklace

I will be in so. cal all week (april 5 - april 10),

and would love to teach in the la/oc area

if anyone has any suggestions, let me know!

Floral Handbag

2010-02-20T16:29:00.000-07:00

you have all been waiting for it

(all 5 of you)

the cutest stinking handbag EVER!

Paula Floral Tote Project Sheet

Let me know what you think. . .

this would be an adorable accent to an Easter dress!!

would you be interested in taking a class to make one?

believin in steven

2010-02-15T10:04:00.000-07:00

believe in steven

men's downhill

TODAY!

go steve!

Great Tool Hunt

2010-02-12T08:51:00.000-07:00

Starting TODAY

Purple Cows Freestyle Mouse Kit is in the running

Design Team Member,

the amazingly gifted artist,

Michelle Mogsford-Jackson

is demonstrating on the video.

Check it out and vote!!!

(I'm counting on all 5 of you to hit the site!)

obcecsive

2010-02-10T14:00:00.000-07:00

i am a very proud mom.

you go girl!!!

Let the Lamination Begin

2010-02-10T10:10:00.000-07:00

coming soon

to a joanns fabric & crafts store near you. . .

(cue the choir)

{g}lamination

directly from the cow's mouth. . .

"Any day now, you will be able to walk into your local Joanns Fabric and Crafts store and pick up the latest and greatest in crafting tools! Take a look at the Kool Tool below, think about the three different temperature settings it has. What special projects do you have waiting for just the perfect tool to make it "happen"? Is there a piece of lace you want to make into a pocket? A very old fishing license from Grandpa you want to preserve? What would YOU do? What COULD you do? Run to your local Joanns, maybe the #3025 Laminator is sitting there already, just waiting for you to take it home and create something udderly fantastic! "

. . now, shhhhhh. . .

don't tell anyone,

but i already have one of these

and

R*O*C*K*S !!!!!

do not stop at GO, do not collect $200,

go straight to

JoAnnes and ask for your

new favorite household toy!!!!

(tell them Sadie sent you, see what they say???)

Post #100

2010-02-08T10:32:00.000-07:00

yee haw!

i've hit a milestone!

i just want to take this moment to thank my five faithful readers.

(you know who you are!!)

you give me a reason to keep this up! :)

today's topic: high school dances

last week we found this mug full of hearts on our porch, during a snowstorm.

(determined guy!)

we were celebrating celery's 22nd birthday,

so xee xee was here for dinner and insisted on diving into the action.

the searching began for the name of the "date"

(now if only she was this determined to find a job. . . . .)

success!! i think. . . . . .

i don't ever remember doing stuff like this for school dances.

oh, that's right, i only went to three, and i did most of the asking.

some things never change.

not to be forgotten--here are a couple shots of celery's cake & candle.

yes, her father is the volunteer fire chief.

don't tell him i sometimes fire up my propane torch in the kitchen, too.

Two Truths & a Lie

2010-02-04T19:22:00.000-07:00

On Monday B*Rod's 6th grade class was playing Two Truths and a Lie.

Each student was instructed to write down 3 things on a slip of paper,

two true things about themselves and one big fat lie.

B*Rod walked in late, but still wanted to participate,

so he walked to the front of the classroom and announced,

"I have Asperger's Disorder,

I am 11 years old,

and, . . .

um. . . .

uh . . . .

I was a VIP at the Grammy's last night."

hmmmmm--i wonder which one was the lie???

the teacher reported that his classmates were very amused,

but kindly laughed with him!

i love this kid!

Shut! Up!. . . . .

2010-02-04T09:42:00.001-07:00

no, seriously, this is

DA BOMB

. . .straight from sadie's mouth. . .

"Ring the cowbells and round up all your friends, because everyone is going to want to hear this udderly fantastic news!

Purple Cows has partnered up with Joann’s to give you the best new tool at the best price EVER! Sometime in the next week to ten days, your local Joann’s Fabric and Craft Store will be THE exclusive location to purchase our brand new #3025 Hot/Kool Laminator –and it is only $59.95!"

"So make sure you get into your local Joann and get your hands on the “hottest” crafting tool out there. With this 13” wide format laminator you will be able to laminate items you never dreamed possible! 3 mil, 5 mil laminating pouches are available, and speaking of pouches, we have a huge 100 assorted size Hot Pocket pack for only $29.95, to go with this “Kool” new tool!

Go to your local Joanns and get yours before they stampede off of the shelves! They will be in stock ANYTIME between now and the end of Febuary!

Come back tomorrow, and see an example of the fantastic projects you will be capable of creating with the Purple Cows #3025 Hot/Kool Laminator, and to hear about MORE of the great features of this Moo-riffic new tool"

so i say--thanks sadie!!--now giddy up to joanne's and get your laminator on!!

2-D becomes 3-D

2010-02-03T13:09:00.001-07:00

the whirlwind that was CHA

i'm actually back home/work but i think i may have left my mind floating somewhere over nevada.

i spent a week in anaheim at the craft & hobby association trade show

--and although this was my third year at the show--

i was still like a little kid in a candy shop.

people, projects, products . . . oh my!

my favorite part of the show this year
was turning some of my new found

2 dimensional contacts into 3 dimensional friends.

of course, i forgot to take pictures, but one of my new 3d's, tanisha did so here are a few shots from an evening after a long day on the show floor.

Members of the Purple Cows Design Team: Elisa , Samantha, me, Michelle, & Tanisha

Rayme Sciaroni, the duke of crafts and Sarah Hodsdon (my twitter friend in the flesh!)

The amazing Jan Mollett Evans

now for kicks and giggles

--if you'd like to see what i spent all week doing--

check out this video

http://scrapbookdimensions.com

now, michelle, i want to see your debut video!

Just Another Car Conversation

2010-01-13T11:22:00.001-07:00

B*Rod: "I wish I was from Canada."

Older Sis: "Why?"

B*Rod: "If I was from Canada, I'd be funny."

Maybe he listens to too much CBC radio and The Vinyl Cafe.

Project For HSN

2010-01-11T10:26:00.000-07:00

Check it out!!!

This adorable purse, will be featured on HSN with the amazing tool I used to create it: Purple Cows Ultimate Trimmer II!!

See the presentation on HSN TONIGHT at 10:00 pm Mountain Time

and

Tomorrow, Tuesday 1/12/10 at 5:00 pm Mountain Time.

Vennita Wilson, the Purple Cows Design Team Coordinator will be presenting the product and showing the projects.

Happy New Year!!!!

2010-01-08T14:26:00.002-07:00

Conversation with 11yo B*Rod:

Setting: Sewing Room

B*rod - (entering room and looking closely at the wedding gown hanging behind me) "Mom, that wedding dress is beautiful--with all the lace and beads and tiny little stitches its'. . . um. . . it's . . . (now looking thoughtfully at the ceiling and tapping his chin) um . . . it's on the tip of my tongue . . um. . . it's um . . . . .Bizarre. (looks at me )"

Me - "Wow, B*rod, that's one way to describe it."

B*Rod - (looking back at the dress, wistfully)"All those little details, I hope my wife wears a dress like that.

Me - "Well, maybe I will make your wife's wedding dress. . . "

B*Rod - (pensively) "Won't you be, um . . . old? I mean, will you still be able to . . . um. . . see?"

Me - "I won't be that old, I'm sure I will still be able to see."

B*Rod - (still thinking) "I want to move here after I get married. Will you and dad still live here?"

Me - "Maybe."

B*Rod - "Well then my wife and I will move here after we get married. I can stay in my room and she can move in downstairs. . . . (considerable thinking) or, um. . . . maybe we'll sleep in the girls' room downstairs. . . . --I can sleep in Celery's bed and my wife can sleep in Zip's bed, . . . . . . . . (with greater excitement) then we can save up for a QUEEN!"

Me - "Wow, Brody, that's some plan."

B*Rod - "Yeah, now can I play with your iphone?"

I wonder if he figures he can still play apps on my phone after he's married too?

It's going to be an AWESOME new year!!!!!

Holiday Holla #21

2009-12-22T09:00:00.000-07:00

Instructions for these great project ideas here!!!

These are great ideas from my friends on the Purple Cows Design Team. Check out the inspiration!!

Holiday Holla #20

2009-12-21T18:24:00.001-07:00

Need a fun project to keep the kids busy before Christmas?

Check out this nativity.

You can print out the instructions & template as a pdf here!

These are a blast to color--use crayons, markers, paint, chalk--you name it! We had a great time adding glitter glue, sequins, and trims to make them really unique!

If you love this pattern and would like to see more like it, please leave a comment!

Thanks.

Holiday Holla #17

2009-12-17T09:00:00.080-07:00

Holiday Holla #17 is a shout out to my favorite tools and all my fellow cowgirls in the Purple Cows Pasture.

Welcome to the Holiday Idea Blog Hop!

(if you came here first, you may want to start at the beginning so you don't miss any of these HOT Holiday ideas!!)

My hot idea is . . . . . . something we've got a lot of:

S N O W F L A K E S

I am facinated by snowflakes and the remarkable individuality that defines each one. These are usually a time consuming, scissor fighting event, but in a quest to find a shortcut--I utilized my Purple Cows Freestyle Mouse and decorative blades--and VOILA! Amazing snowflakes!!!

In making these, I chose tissue paper so I could get crisp folds and detailed looking designs.

Start with a square of tissue paper, and fold carefully for a 6 or 8 point snowflake. (instructions for folding can be found here.)

I used a permanent marker and gave my Freestyle Mouse a "mod" so I could easily see where the blade touched the paper.

Press down on the blade, and pull toward the folded edges.

Play around with your technique--practice makes perfect!

Carefully unfold.

Each decorative blade gives the snowflake a little different look. . . .

#2807

#2810

#2808

#2804

To finish them off I carefully pressed each fold flat, then placed them in a Hot Pocket and Laminated each flake for stability--then cut them out and hung them from strings.

Now for more inspiration--Hop on over HERE, Robin's Blog, for more great ideas and keep following the Hop for your chances to win!!!

If you missed some of the other blogs in the hop--here's a list:

Holiday Holla #16

2009-12-16T20:00:00.000-07:00

Holla #16 is a quick teaser. . . . TOMORROW IS THE DAY. . .

Need some last minute Holiday ideas?

Feel like having fun?

Wanna win some prizes?

It all starts right

HERE

at 10:00 am CST tomorrow!!!

Be sure to click that link,

and check in at Sadie's place and you'll see where to go from there!

And don't forget,

you still have time to enter the contest to win a TRUCKLOAD of Purple Cow goodies, just by making a project with a Purple Cow tool! Can't wait to see what you do!!

Happy Wednesday Evening ~ See you Tomorrow!!

Holiday Holla Hiatus

2009-12-16T12:30:00.000-07:00

Taking a quick break--I'll be back with Holla #16

Holiday Holla #11

2009-12-16T12:27:00.001-07:00

Holla #11 goes out to my new 16 year old! In honor of her birthday, and my recent opportunity to do some design work for them I am giving a shout to

The Sweet Tooth Fairy

Miss Sweet 16 L O V E S Sweet Tooth Fairy's amazing

Double Fudge Cake Bites

Yum--and they ship all over!

Holiday Holla #9 & #10

2009-12-10T22:30:00.001-07:00

It's a Holiday Twofer!

First a quick holiday decorating project--then a little something funny I found in the Christmas box I unpacked today.

Holla #9 -- loving Scrap Fleece.

This bright, fun garland is made from fleece scraps, yarn and buttons.

It was just like stringing popcorn, and everyone got involved (for a few minutes anyway).

The same concept would be great with bits of used wrapping paper, foil, or foam shapes. So pick up a needle and some string and make something fun!

Holla #10

Last year, my girls and I wrote "Super Fake'' Christmas Lists inspired by the song "Santa Baby".
I stuck them into the Christmas box when packing everything up at the end of the season--and promptly forgot about them.
It was fun to re-read them this year.
(Please keep in mind these are ENTIRELY tongue in cheek!!)
See if you can guess whose is whose. . . . .

We are going to make this a tradition--it should be fun to see how these lists change over time. . . I hope.

Holiday Holla #8

2009-12-09T11:22:00.000-07:00

This holla combines some of my favorite things in life: repurposing, diet coke, target and glitter.

and

I just cut leaf shaped pieces from fused Target bags and diet coke cartons, then hot glued them together and added a ton of glitter!!

Voila!!

Holiday Holla #7

2009-12-07T22:49:00.000-07:00

This holla is for my sister Jennifer Hatch, for giving me permission to share her words:

GI Joe at the Manger

By Jennifer N. Hatch

It was a momentous day when I bought my first “grown-up” nativity set. I had some “child-friendly” nativity sets I had painted or sewn in relief society with what little talent I had for painting and sewing…my attempts were valiant, yet my results less than satisfactory. My husband and I were struggling financially as we were raising a family, going to school and trying to survive in the less than family-friendly economics of Southern California. So after about ten years of marriage, I had scrimped and saved and sacrificed enough to buy a beautiful nativity set. I wanted my children to experience the sense of reverence and awe that I felt when I thought of the birth of the Savior, and I hoped that this would be a way for them to begin to understand what an important event this was. I so very carefully unpacked the crèche, and placed it in the center of our home, where my family would see it often. I loved to sit quietly in the evening when the children were in bed and look at the nativity and appreciate its beauty and its meaning.

A few days later, I passed by the crèche and had to stop and do a double take. There was something different. My eyes passed quickly over the figures and stopped – there was an interloper in the manger. For among the shepherds who had come to see the baby Jesus was a 12-inch GI Joe action figure in full camouflage and a rifle over his shoulder, looking down at the Christ child. Now, my first reaction was to pluck him up and remove him from my beautiful nativity – but some instinct stopped me and I decided to wait and see what would happen. After all, I wanted my family to think more about the birth of the Savior, and obviously, one of my sons had. I said nothing and observed the gathering that occurred in my home that Christmas at the manger. By the time Christmas had arrived, the wise men had been joined by a Star Wars figure with light saber guarding the baby Jesus as well as a Barbie joining in the heavenly chorus and Batman, spiderman and a host of Hot Wheels worshipping the newborn king. My beautiful nativity has never looked more beautiful than that season.

My children taught me a great lesson that Christmas. They reminded me that ALL are invited to the manger – not just those who we expect to be there. That our Father in Heaven did not just invite a chosen, special few to worship the Son of God, but that every person on this earth, regardless of level of faith or testimony or understanding is invited to worship at the feet of our Savior. ©2007 Jennifer N. Hatch

Holiday Holla #6

2009-12-07T09:13:00.000-07:00

Holiday Holla #6 is a shout out to Free Holiday Music!!

I especially liked the track from Sixpence None the Richer.

Check it out!

Holiday Holla #5

2009-12-05T14:47:00.000-07:00

It's the weekend, so today's holla is very lighthearted and goes out to

JibJab!!

These are my very talented brothers, husband ,and brother-in-laws.

Holiday Holla #4

2009-12-04T20:22:00.001-07:00

What to do with an old sweater or moth eaten blanket?????

This cute nativity is made exclusively from repurposed wool sweaters, blankets, socks and scarves along with some yarn and wool roving to felt it all together!!

Here's what it looks like in process. . . .

My whole house is a wool o-rama! Now I put all the bits and pieces together with my needle felting tool!

The faceless masses. . . . and a tiny size.

A back view.

All dressed up and ready for the holidays!!!

Holiday Holla #3 (belated!)

2009-12-04T10:30:00.000-07:00

Today's Holiday Holla goes out to Stuart McLean and The Vinyl Cafe.

If you are not familiar with The Vinyl Cafe, its a weekly radio show from CBC Radio in Canada and the holiday episodes are particulary fabulous!

A few years ago I purchased The Vinyl Cafe Christmas Collection and it is by far one of the best investments in family entertainment I have ever made. Our family listens to them over and over during the holidays, and they never fail to make us laugh out loud. My personal favorite is "Polly Anderson's Christmas Party", Scott's is "Dave Cooks the Turkey".

Subscribe to the podcast for year round laughs!!