My HodgePodgerie

Grand Opening of "CRAFTED"

2012-01-20T22:59:00.004-06:00

My HodgePodgerie's Mommy's Little Monster tees and Monster Tooth Fairy Pillows can be found at Claremore's new boutique "Crafted"! Print this flyer and take it to Crafted this Saturday, and receive 10% off a single item! Everything in the shop is handmade!

Alliday Craft Show this weekend!!!

2011-12-12T21:04:00.003-06:00

Come on out Saturday to the Alliday Show!! The Alliday show is an all handmade Arts and craft show to be held Saturday, December 17, 2011 from 9-5 at the Ford Truck Exhibit Hall at the Tulsa Fairgrounds Expo Square. Admission is FREE to the public and amazing things are guaranteed to be found!

Darnaby Arts & Crafts Show

2011-11-20T22:54:00.003-06:00

Getting ready!!!

Does it have heart?

2011-11-01T08:43:00.002-05:00

Sometimes I struggle with my ideas. There are so many fabulous things out there to create! My idea list is ever growing. My to-do list is pages long, and then there is my folder of things I've seen in magazines, books, on pinterest or out n' about that inspire me. The folder is a crazy chaos of papers, scribbled notes on napkins or sketches that i've kept over the years. Sometimes I pull it out and sort thru, looking for some inspiration (or motivation) to try something new.

There are also other times when family, friends, strangers will say "YOU SHOULD MAKE >>>>". And at times, those 'requests' aren't really..............inspiring to me. haha.. or, they are not really what I am feeling in my heart to do. Some of my family members are good for this. "You should make burlap purses! I read that you need to watch the fabric 15 times!" (no thanks) or another who will say "A woman at my workplace makes doll clothes and makes a fortune.". Again, no thanks.

Inspiration comes from a lot of places. People have ideas, wants, needs and are equally inspired. But if it doesn't have heart..............don't make it! The concept seems pretty easy. But apply it to your life and see where it goes! Philippians 4:8 says. ' whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things'.

So friends, if it is lovely, and has heart.........make it! Be it! Do it!

Happy Fall Y'all

2011-10-30T15:12:00.002-05:00

I love fall! I love the colors, the changing of the leaves, the crisp air, burning candles...ahhh.. I've been inspired and have slowly begun adding some beauties to the shop. Pretty, simple, chic, a trio of felt flowers on a pin back. Attach to your tee, jacket, hat, scarf, purse..........anything!

Felt flowers are handcut by me, so no two are the same. I've added a little sparkle & bling to the middle.

Come check a few pretties out in the Etsy shop! www.myhodgepodgerie.etsy.com.

My mission for today.....

2011-10-25T08:55:00.003-05:00

'nuff said. Cheers to a creative day!

Tooth Monster Pillows now in stock!

2011-10-23T16:59:00.002-05:00

Tooth Monster Pillows are now in the Etsy Shop! www.myhodgepodgerie.etsy.com.

Each tooth monster is made from soft fleece & flannel. The mouth makes a pocket for exchanging that little tooth for money or anything else your tooth fairy (ahem....monster) may bring. Can be hung on the bed post (altho, personally, I prefer the door knob...then you don't have to go in!!! No sneaking, no under the pillow mishaps and no forgetting!!!)

$10/each and available in Red, Orange, Lime green, Aqua, Hot Pink & Purple!

Survival of the Craft Shows

2011-10-22T20:49:00.006-05:00

War Eagle? check (was a FABULOUS show and spent time with my friend Amy Poss (the Possibilities))

B.A.ZAAR Craft Show? check (spent the day with my cbff (thats crafty bff)...AWESOME!!)

Whewwwwww! I'm exhausted!!

I have a month to relax (relax? whats that?) until Darnaby - Saturday, December 3rd.

I'll be updating my website & Etsy shop & Facebook page in the next few days (yah, I'm optimistic) with some great goodies. Be sure to check them out!

Upcoming Shows

2011-09-06T11:26:00.003-05:00

Jumping in with both feet and preparing for a busy craft show season! So far, this is the lineup (altho, I may toss in one or two more ... who knows) :)

October 13th - 16th: War Eagle Mill Craft & Art Show - in the Ozarks - Arkansas

8:00am - 5:30pm Thursday-Saturday

8:00am - 4:30pm Sunday

You can find more info on the show or directions at http://www.wareaglemill.com/fair.html

October 22nd - B.A. ZAAR - Broken Arrow Farmers Market, Broken Arrow, OK

8:00am-6:00pm Saturday

Free admission

December 3rd - Darnaby Arts & Crafts Show, Tulsa, OK

9:00am - 4:00pm Saturday

Free admission

Looking forward to it!

Now....off to sew!!!!!!!!!!!! xo

Taking a break

2011-06-27T20:23:00.002-05:00

I'm looking forward to a great summer.....aren't you? Family, friends, food, fun! That been said, My HodgePodgerie will be taking a much needed break to do just that. We'll re-open in mid-August with some fresh ideas, new fabrics and some great memories!

Have a great summer!

Teacher Appreciation - Fabulous Fobs

2011-05-02T18:54:00.002-05:00

School is almost over! Stop by my Etsy shop and pick up a special little gift to let your child's teacher know much you appreciate them!

Edison Spring Market - April 30th

2011-04-25T22:00:00.002-05:00

Oh Boy! Its a Spring Sale!

2011-04-11T20:15:00.003-05:00

Looking for a unique gift for a baby/toddler boy? Hit the Spring Sale in my Etsy shop for tie onesies and octopus tees! Get 'em while they last!! www.myhodgepodgerie.etsy.com.

Thanks!

2011-04-10T10:55:00.004-05:00

Thanks to everyone who came out to visit and shop at the Serendipity Craft show yesterday! It was such a great time! :)

Serendipity Market Craft Show

2011-04-04T12:37:00.002-05:00

Come out to the Serendipity Market this Saturday, April 9th from 9-4!

First United Methodist Church is located in Bixby - 15502 South Memorial.

CLEARANCE SALE

2011-03-28T13:47:00.005-05:00

I'm phasing out my Little Guy Ties and my Octopus Line, so get them while you can!

I will be posting stock as I take pictures of them. Go to my Etsy shop to get that last minute deal!! (myhodgepodgerie.etsy.com)

All Little Guy Ties that I have left in stock. Some short sleeve, some long sleeve $12.00/each. All Octopus Tees $14.00/each.

New look, New website

2011-03-21T23:50:00.004-05:00

Finally!! The website is pretty and up and running! Well, sort-of... It does not have the PayPal links right now, but at least you will be able to see some of the new pretty fabrics I've been playing with!

You can go to the website - www.myhodgepodgerie.com or go to my Etsy shop at www.myhodgepodgerie.etsy.com. Any questions, just contact me thru either!

I'm also getting ready for a craft show! For those of you who are in the area, it will be on April 9th - the Serendipity Arts & Crafts show in Bixby. Details to follow!

Luck of the Irish

2011-03-17T09:31:00.003-05:00

Well, I'm not Irish...I am Polish in all sense of the word. Yep, go ahead, tell me the polish jokes, its fine. I won't get upset :) But the girls at eighteen25 have the cutest Subway Art for St. Patty's Day, so I needed to share!! Here is the link: http://www.box.net/shared/0esqxeb0si

Cheers to a creative week!

2011-03-13T14:46:00.000-05:00

Sunshine, Lollipops & Rainbows...........

2011-03-03T10:00:00.004-06:00

It's been awhile since I've seen a rainbow, so I wanted to share this {Free} Rainbow Printable from Simple As That. What a great reminder for dreary days :)

http://rebeccacooper.blogspot.com/2011/03/rainbow-printable.htm l

Creativity

2011-03-01T12:10:00.003-06:00

A friend of mine sent this to me today and I found it inspiring to share...

I can't believe it's March! Where did January & February go? It seems that I have been playing catch up and spinning my wheels for the past 2 months, so its time to get CREATIVE! Quickly working to put the finishing touches on the new website and get ready for some spring shows. More to come.

Get your creative - on!

Mmmmmmmm Coffee

2011-02-20T14:01:00.003-06:00

Dear Lord,

Thank you for coffee.

Amen.

:) Cheers to the start of a productive week!

Motivation & Inspiration

2011-02-18T11:13:00.002-06:00

I'm having a real problem with motivation lately. I'm guessing its the usual "winter blahs", but I need to get out of my funk. So with that, I'm looking for some inspiration today. Its the start of the weekend (where did the week go, anyway??) and we are supposed to have beautiful weather here in the south. I'm hoping the images above and the weather inspire me (and you).

Inspire.

Create.

Motivate.

Ask. Seek. Knock.

Hope y'all have a wonderful weekend!

Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Fundraiser

2011-01-26T13:29:00.008-06:00

I was contacted last week by a lovely woman, who is the co-coordinator for "Mended Little Hearts of Charlottesville" in VA, about a fundraiser they are having. The fundraiser is to raise CHD awareness. It will be held on February 7th at the UVA Medical Center. For more information, please check out their website at www.mlhcharlottesville.org.

For those of you who do not know what CHD is, it is Congenital Heart Defect. CHD is the second leading cause of death for children 15 and under. 9 babies out of every 1,000 births will have some form for congenital cardiovascular defect. Approximately 36,000 babies are born with CHD every year, and about 1,000,000 Americans born with CHD are still alive today!

This tugs are my heart strings in many ways, and I was so happy to be asked to be a part of it.

My HodgePodgerie has donated iron-on heart patches for the fundraiser, and I have also loaded them to my Etsy shop.

Have a heart...look into congenital heart disease. Become aware. Give. And if you are blessed to know someone with CHD, hug them. xo

Simply put.... a SALE!

2010-12-27T21:41:00.004-06:00

I don't know about you, but at this time of year, I get anxious. Anxious to have the new year start and get a renewal, a second chance, a do-over, so to speak. When the new year starts, it brings in magic and hope. To be better, live better, create more, get organized! I could go on forever about goals, but I'll spare you my list for another day. :) Right now, I want to tell you about the S-A-L-E in my Etsy shop (click here to go right to my Etsy shop). EVERYTHING is on SALE! Keyfobs, reversible purses, wristlets & scarves!

I'm looking forward to playing with new fabrics and trying some new ideas! So, come check it out & shop!!

Merry Christmas!!

2010-12-24T13:47:00.003-06:00

Wishing you all a VERY Merry Christmas! I am taking a small break to enjoy family and feel that Christmas spirit! I am planning a sneaky-peak giveaway for next week! So be sure to check back! xo

(download the 'holly jolly' tag from 'Eighteen25' here)

Thanksgiving Sale in my Etsy shop

2010-11-23T14:52:00.002-06:00

An Affair of the Heart - Tulsa

2010-11-18T15:58:00.003-06:00

Affair of the Heart this weekend!!!

WHEN: Friday, Saturday (9:00 - 6:00) & Sunday (11:00-5:00)

WHERE: QuikTrip Center-Expo Square (Between Harvard & Yale)

I'll be sharing a booth with the fabulous Amy Poss of Possibilities! Stop by and see us! (and feel free to bring Dr. Pepper or Starbucks Peppermint Mocha. Mmm.. thanks) :)

Indian Springs Baptist Church Craft Show

2010-11-07T00:15:00.003-05:00

War Eagle Craft Fair

2010-10-10T15:33:00.003-05:00

War Eagle Craft Fair

October 14-17

8am - 5pm (Thursday-Saturday) and 8am-4pm (Sunday)

Free parking

The War Eagle Fair is the "grand-daddy" of them all! Located along the banks of the War Eagle River, the fair has grown to include approx. 260 vendors and welcomes over 180,000 visitors throughout the weekend! Stained glass, leather, basketmakers, woodworkers, sculptures and lots of other handmade arts & crafts available (and of course, goodies by My HodgePodgerie and Amy Poss - Possibilities). We'll be located in one of the large white circus tents! Stop by and say hello!! Its going to be a great weekend!

http://www.wareaglefair.com/

Directions:

View Northwest Arkansas Craft Fairs in a larger map

Summer Break

2010-06-22T21:54:00.003-05:00

My HodgePodgerie will be closing the shop and taking a summer break - July 1st - August 15 to spend some much needed family time and fun in the sun!

So, between now & July 1st, check out my Etsy shop for sales! All items are ready to ship immediately!!

Enjoy your summer!!!

New for spring/summer 2010

2010-04-13T00:12:00.005-05:00

Wow! Where has the time gone? How is it spring already? We are mid-April!!! I've been trying to get organized, pull some new items together, launch the new website and gather up new fabrics. Its been a busy few months! Here is a sneak peak at some new tees for kiddos i've been working on (with a little help from the J-man).

Octopus Tees for boys & girls. Will be available in 6 styles & colors - sizes 12 mth - 5T. I've even been working on some frayed matching hair pretties for the girls!

They haven't been added to the website just yet. But they will be soon :)

April 17th - Serendipity Market

2010-04-13T00:10:00.002-05:00

Getting ready for a great little spring show! Here are the details:

Saturday, April 17th from 9am - 5pm
Serendipity Market - A Craft, vendor & used book sale
First Methodist Church in Bixby
15502 S. Memorial

For more information, you can call 918-366-4463! Hope to see you there!

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

2009-12-24T19:03:00.003-06:00

Merry Christmas from My HodgePodgerie!

I hope this Christmas finds you surrounded by love, laughter, family and friends! Thank you for another great year! I'm looking forward to what the new year brings!

Check out my Etsy shop beginning Monday, December 28th for my after-Christmas Sale! Tie Onesies, Baby Wipe Cases, Keyfobs and more!

Wishing you and yours a very Merry CHRISTmas & a Blessed New Year!

Fobs are the Perfect Teacher Gift/Stocking Stuffer

2009-12-08T00:39:00.006-06:00

Well, I just couldn't wait till the new year to bust out the new line of fabrics! Just in time for Christmas, 'fabulous fobs' in great new fabrics.

Now available on my Etsy site - http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=36285099

(New fabrics will be uploaded to my regular website in the new year.)

On sale now, 3 for $20 (free shipping). Order by Sunday, December 13th and have them in time for Christmas and end of school!

Darnaby Craft Show - December 5th

2009-11-30T23:41:00.002-06:00

Its that time of year again! The craft show at Darnaby is this Saturday, December 5th from 9-5.
You can find me & Bair Creations in our usual corner spot!

Sales include:

Keyfobs $6.50/each or 3 for $18.00. Keyfobs make great stocking stuffers & teacher gifts!
Tie Onesies & Tees - $14.00 (sizes newborn - 5T)
Monster Tees - $20.00 (sizes 12m - 6/7)

New items:

Wristlet purses $20.00 (over 20 patterns to choose from)
Zippy coin purses $7.00
Boo-boo hot/cold packs for kiddos $7.00
Monster tooth-pillows - $10.00

Hope to see you there!

Shop Closed July 12th - August 12th

2009-07-11T22:53:00.004-05:00

Hi all! Summer is upon us and time to enjoy the weather, family & friends. I'm closing the shop from July 12th - August 12th to do exactly that. I plan to reopen the shop on August 13th with a new fabrics, as well as some new purses, wristlets and who knows, maybe a few other goodies! :)
Enjoy your summer!! xo

Wristlets & Free Shipping

2009-07-05T23:20:00.005-05:00

Wow! I certainly didn't expect to not post anything for a few months! I am the worst blogger ever (ok, I know that is likely not true. I like following other blogs and some of you haven't been updating either. haha Its summer! What can ya do?)

Anyways, I am happy to post some new items that will be in the Etsy Shop;

The "Eva" purse - This is a pattern that I personally sketched out. Its the perfect size, magnetic clasp & 2 pockets inside. The Eva purse will be made as a one-of-a-kind item. I am slowly moving thru my fabric stash, so Evan will be unique and you'll need to grab one as you see them! :) Again, they'll only in the Etsy shop (its hard to update the regular website with those, but I will add a link).

Wristlets are a great size and just slides on your wrist like a fob. Great for when your running out and don't need a big purse. These are currently on Etsy, but I will be adding them to the website end of August.

Last but not least, I am now offering FREE SHIPPING within the U.S. :)

Teacher's Gifts

2009-05-13T19:01:00.009-05:00

Tis the season for that time of year! Down here in the south, kids are getting out as soon as next week! Graduating even! Yikes!

Looking for a great teacher gift? Look no further! Check out "fob-ulous fobs" (wristlet keychains) on my website or "Sneezies" in my Etsy shop!

☆:¨¨:★:¨¨:☆ S-A-L-E ☆:¨¨:★:¨¨:☆

2009-05-10T22:03:00.006-05:00

SALE in my Etsy shop this week! All Checkbook covers, dayplanners and totes on sale this week!

Rooster Days Festival - Broken Arrow, OK

2009-05-06T00:21:00.003-05:00

Looking for some time out this weekend? Sick of being cooped up inside with all this rain? Come out to Rooster Days Festival in Broken Arrow this weekend! Rides, food, music, petting zoo, crafts and gifts.. what more could you ask for?

On Saturday morning the streets of downtown Broken Arrow are flooded with spectators from all ages to partake in the parade. Kids line the streets with goody bags ready to gather candy and celebrate the Rooster Days tradition. And, of course the Bands of Broken Arrow are a major draw. Broken Arrow is recognized all over the country for their superior and dynamic bands.
Community groups, civic organization and others take part and make Rooster Days such an enjoyable event.

Vendors will be set up in the Community Center, and from what I hear, there will be alot of them! We'll be there Friday 4:30-10:00, Saturday 10:00-10:00 and Sunday 1:00-6:00.

Stop by & say hi!!

My Handmade Registry....

2009-03-12T23:14:00.003-05:00

I received a sweet message today in my Etsy inbox from Dorana (a fellow etsyian and) creator of a site called www.myhandmaderegistry.com, that I was featured on their front page on a wish list! How cool is that?

I had never heard of this site, but what a fabulous idea! You can register for items on your wishlist, from your favorite handmade retailers! BRILLIANT!

She would stumble across blog posts..."I wish I could register for my wedding at Etsy.com!""Oh, I'd LOVE it if everyone would get me Etsy.com stuff for my baby shower!" This is a blurb from her site "After searching for several days, I found ONE online registry where registrants could add Etsy.com item numbers to their wish list of goods along with the likes of Macy's, Bloomingdales, ToysRUs, etc. I thought, "Hey! I CAN DO THIS!" : a Handmade Registry - a place where everyone can create a personal page with a list of their favorite items from only HANDMADE RETAILERS! "

Again... BRILLIANT! So, I am excited that I was among the lucky to be added to someones wish list. Indeed this is a site to check out and create your own wish list on! Bravo!!

Paper Shop Updated

2009-03-12T23:00:00.003-05:00

Check out my paper shop! I've been "Playin' with Paper" all week. I had many o' birthday cards to make and just got on a roll! :) I had in my stash a FABULOUS pack of vintage-y papers and I'm just drooling over there still! I'm going to try to stay on top of them. I almost forgot how fun the papers and ribbons and stamps were!

http://www.playinwithpaper.etsy.com/

BLOG CRAFT ROOM SALE

2009-03-10T01:04:00.002-05:00

March is spring cleaning time for me. The weather is starting to get warmer, i'm opening my windows, moving furniture around and attempting to get rid of all the "treasures" aka junk that has so quickly accumulated around here.

This month's goal is to purge out my craft supplies. I honestly could open a small Hobby Lobby in my craft room. If my dh only knew what was really behind all those cabinet doors in there. :)

At any rate, my friend Lisa (BellaRoseCreations-check her out) gave me the idea to post some items that i'd like to sell on my blog, so i'm having a garage sale or rather a blog craft room sale!
I am going to try to post things here over the next few weeks. If you are interested, please email me right away (myhodgepodgerie@yahoo.com), and I will send you a paypal invoice (plus shipping costs if you are not local). I will do my best to amend my list based on interest.

So, here's my start. These are all Stampin' Up stamp sets. I am NOT a rep for Stampin' Up, I just happen to have quite a few sets. :) lol All are gently used, unless otherwise noted, and can make their new home YOUR craft room! :) *if you don't know what these sets look for, you can email me for a picture, or just search on the net for them.

1 - Basket Full of Fun (hostess set, new, never used) $20
2 - In Full Bloom (ret) $10
3 - Quirky Quips (ret) $10
4 - Block Party $10
5 - Petal Pushers (some new) $10
6 - Background Basics $6

I'll likely be adding more tomorrow :)

CPSIA Testing Complete

2009-03-10T00:57:00.003-05:00

Sorry - I've been MIA trying to prepare the shop moving forward, decide on products and get some of my products tested. Its been a busy February & early March to say the least!

Good news - my tie onesies, toddler ties & monster shirts have all been tested and are lead free! Yippeee! So you will hopefully see some new ties for spring in my shops (some already on Etsy) soon. At some's requests, I've started a collection of little guy ties on toddler tees. J & I have already started working on some new monsters (some already posted on myhodgepodgerie.com). More to come! I need a sunny day for some new pictures!

New products coming soon....
*new spring prints for ties
*new monsters (J's creations)
*brand new - capes that are attached to tees (again, J's creation)
*purses (yes.. I PROMISE! Some of you keep asking. I will make that a priority this month)

Doin' the Happy Dance!

2009-02-02T00:52:00.004-06:00

For those of you who are following all the craziness, there has been a proposed 1 year suspension of the mandatory testing and certification from the CPSIA. This is wonderful news for My HodgePodgerie, because it means that we do not need to discontinue any of our baby & toddler products!!! (Insert happy dance here! Go ahead-move your arms, your hips, your legs.. uh huh!)

Regardless of the stay, I am going ahead with the process of getting my tie onesies, toddler ties and initial/number tees certified. This will only be helpful in the future. I should be able to get them tested by mid-February and I will be restocking and working on a new selection of fabrics for them by end of February, early March! Yippeee!

I am so excited! Can you tell?

Thank you to all my loyal customers for your support and kind words. I couldn't of made it emotionally without y'all!

Some Pretty New Things...........

2009-01-30T11:59:00.007-06:00

As promised, here are a few sneak peeks of things I've been working on. I'm getting them ready for next weekend's show, so they wont' be in the shop till mid-February. Can't wait!!!!

Fabric flower pins; Pin them on your purse or jacket for that little touch of flair!

Fabric/beaded bracelets a la Amy Butler. These were on her website and I've been dying to make these for a long time. Can't wait to get these in the shop!

""Little Secrets" Pad & Tampon Holders; You've likely seen these on Etsy, but I put my own spin on them and am offering 2 styles! One style has a pocket & 4 slots for tampons, and the other will have 2 pockets just for pads. Great for tweens & up! No more dropping them all over the floor when your purse drops, pass them to friends in need without embarassment!

Covered in threads

2009-01-28T22:19:00.004-06:00

Whewwwww! My craft room is in serious chaos. I have so many new things on the go! Trying to get some products CPSIA compliant, taking care of orders coming in, and getting ready for the Affair of the Heart show in OKC next weekend!

In addition to the above (and mainly because I thrive on the chaos) I am downsizing supplies on Etsy/Ebay and sketching new designs and trying to stay on top of the laundry (which I can't seem to get folded and put away). :) Yah. All at the same time. And no, I don't sleep. (yawn)

I don't even have a fun picture of whats to come for you to see! Maybe I'll work on that tomorrow. Yes - tomorrow will be sunny and perhaps and good photo day for new items :)

Hope y'all are staying warm!

January Clearance Sale On Now!

2009-01-11T12:32:00.002-06:00

ALL baby & toddler items on sale now thru end of January!

Baby Wipe cases on for $14.00!
Initial Tees only $10.00!

Mommy's Little Monsters now just $20.00!

Stock is limited! Click HERE to go to My HodgePodgerie.com!

(Stock in my Etsy shop also on sale! Click HERE to go to my Etsy shop.

Baby/Childrens Clearance Sale

2009-01-04T21:50:00.002-06:00

Well, I'm not going to sugar coat it, I'm scared of change. I guess this new year will bring more change right from the start than just moving furniture around and getting organized.
I sat down in December to plan out my goals for the business and to make a list of new products. Little did I know that I would have to amend that list to not include all the fun kid stuff I was planning. :( It makes me a bit sad, but I just need to refocus and plan ahead. God has a plan for this little business of mine. So I'm trusting in his direction to lead me to a new focus.
That been said, I'll be doing an inventory this week and posting a sale that will run from next week thru February 9th (February 10th being the date the new law goes into affect).
I've already marked down some items in my Etsy shop and am offering FREE SHIPPING on baby & childrens products. I'll be working on my website this week!
Please check back next week for my clearance sale and don't forget to look for brand new items by end of February! :)

Help Save Handmade in the USA

2009-01-03T19:46:00.002-06:00

On February 10th, most of us small shops will either be going out of business or reinventing themselves. Why? because in a little more than a month, mandatory safety testing will be required for all toys sold in the United States under a new law through the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA). If the law as currently written is not modified, handmade toys (and other children's items) made by small crafters, and even niche products from some larger companies will no longer be legal in the United States; Countless retailers who rely on handmade products in the children's industry will be left with a dismally limited product range to offer customers.
In 2007, large toy manufacturers who outsource their production to China and other developing countries violated the public's trust. They were selling toys with improperly secured and easily swallowed small magnets, and toys made from chemicals that made kids sick. Almost every problem toy in 2007 was made in China.The United States Congress rightly recognized that the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) lacked the authority and staffing to prevent dangerous toys from being imported into the US, so they passed the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act in August 2008. Among other things, the CPSIA bans lead and phthalates in toys, mandates third-party testing and certification for all toys and requires toy makers to permanently label each toy with a date and batch number.All of these changes will be fairly easy for large, multinational toy manufacturers to comply with. Large manufacturers who make thousands of units of each toy have very little incremental cost to pay for testing and updating their molds to include batch labels.
For small American, Canadian, and European toymakers, however the costs of mandatory testing will likely drive them out of business, or prevent them from doing business with the United States.:: A toymaker for example, who makes wooden cars in his garage in Maine to supplement his income cannot afford the (up to $4,000) fee per toy that testing labs are charging to assure compliance with the CPSIA.:: A work at home mom in Minnesota who makes dolls to sell at craft fairs must choose either to violate the law or cease operations.:: And even the handful of larger toy makers who still employ workers in the United States face increased costs to comply with the CPSIA, even though American-made toys had nothing to do with the toy safety problems of 2007.
The CPSIA simply forgot to address the class of toys that have earned and kept the public's trust: toys made in the US, Canada, and Europe. The result, unless the law is modified, will be that small creative companies with unique products, will be forced out of business, or forced to narrow their product range and sell to the mass market. Product availability and selection will diminish. Ironically, we will be primarily left with imported plastic toys from China.
What can you do to help? Toy stores, Toymakers and others in the industry: Join the Handmade Toy Alliance- http://www.handmadetoyalliance.org Parents, grandparents, and concerned citizens: Write to your United States Congress Person and Senator and the CPSC to request changes in the CPSIA to save handmade toys. You can find a sample letter with links to representatives here-http://www.handmadetoyalliance.org/how-you-can-help/ and the Handmade Toy Alliance website provides extensive information along with important links if you'd like to research further.

Shop Closed December 15th - January 3rd

2008-12-08T16:05:00.003-06:00

Just taking a small break and a much needed rest for the Christmas holiday! Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a blessed new year!!

*All shops will be closed December 15th-January 3rd. Any orders placed during that time will be mailed on January 5th*

Merry Christmas!!

A family challenge and new ideas

2008-11-24T21:15:00.004-06:00

Well, our family decided a month ago to become more frugal than ever. The goal basically is a simple one; pay off our debt, save and be able to move back 'home' to be closer with family - all as soon as possible. I won't lie, being on a strict budget is hard. Its been a reality check, thats for sure. But its been so good in so many ways!

Its also presented a creative challenge. I decided that from that point on, I was going to create items to use up my incredible stash, but also that when J wanted/needed something, we would make it (if we could) instead of buy it. Because of that we (the creative team of me, J & D) have created several new toddler tees - monsters, robots and a snowman. We've worked on teacher gifts together, and our latest project, which unfolded quickly yesterday. LOL

A little background... in the summer, J decided he wanted a watch. Now, most mom's of toddler know that a watch would likely get lost or break in quick time (no pun intended), so we made one out of scrap foam, drew a face on it and he was thrilled. Yesterday, he dug out his mangled foam watch from the far corners of the toy room and declared he needed a new one - and started pulling felt and ribbon from my bins (yes, he is great at pulling together supplies! lol) So......after some sketching and consulting with my creative team, this is what we came up with!

What do you think?

Its made of felt and ribbon. The clock face is fused onto the felt and then I hand stitched around the clock face and in the middle to secure it. Velcro makes it easy to put on & off. I made a few for the upcoming show and we'll see how they go. J loves his and really......thats all that matters. :)

Teacher Gifts!

2008-11-24T15:14:00.002-06:00

Getting ready for shows is fun, but totally exhausting!! :)

Teachers gifts are big on the list so here are a few I have been working on. I'm slowly getting them up on Etsy, but if you want some, come see me at Darnaby! (or email me!)

Teacher "sneezies" - what teacher couldn't use tissues with all those little germy kids around? lol Lots of fun fabrics this year!

Book Baubles - these are great for teachers, stocking stuffers for your sister or even co-workers! Use them to organize your bills, keep your spot in your fav book or magazine, cookbooks, endless, fun and pretty!

Teacher "Pull-ups" as I like to call them. Chocolate cards .. what could be better? I've stuck colored cardstock in them in the past to include a small message, but the generic ones I make can also be great stocking stuffers, bday gifts, or just because!

And something new ... notepads! I saw these little beauties on a blog last year and thought they were adorable!! (thank you Michelle Wooderson!) The possibilities are endless with these tho!

So, maybe that will get your wheels turning for teachers gifts. I've also been working on fobs! I LOVE FOBS! I can't stop making them. I love pulling out some new fabrics and making a few fobs from them.. ahhhhh. SOOO MUCH FUN!!

Enjoy! And don't forget your teachers this season! They teach your kiddos!! :)

Darnaby Arts & Craft Show - December 6th

2008-11-21T19:20:00.004-06:00

Getting ready!!! :)

I am a Robot - Do as I say......

2008-11-17T18:56:00.005-06:00

It would be an understatement if I said that robots were a part of my daily life right now. Isn't it funny how boys, specifically toddler boys, change their likes and dislikes? Every week its something new. Cars, trucks, Nemo, Mickey Mouse, Transformers, airplanes, now Robots!

J & D helped me design these shirts. J loves his. We alternate between robots and monsters now. Who knows what will be next! :)

I'll be adding them to Etsy. Etsians seem to love the robots lately, so, seems like a good place to launch them. If I get my act together, I may have them at the Darnaby Arts & Crafts Show (Saturday, Dec 6th, 9-5 - Union HS on Garnett). The Tulsa Trendy Treasures group will be there! Be sure to stop by and say hello!

TTT November Shows

2008-11-03T22:06:00.004-06:00

Whewwwww! Its going to be a busy month! The TTT (Tulsa Trendy Treasures) Group will be at the following places this month:

November 6th - 9:00 - 2:30 - Tulsa Spine & Specialty Hospital

November 11th & 12th - 9:00 - 5:00 - St Francis Hospital cafeteria (on 61st)

November 14th - 9:00 - 4:00 - Jenks Elementary School

Tis the season! I am busy using some fab fabrics and creating some really unique teacher gifts! Stop by & say hi!

Let it Snow!

2008-10-19T17:45:00.003-05:00

Moving to the south was a definate change of season for us - meaning, the seasons don't change like they did up north! I miss a long fall and all the brightly colored leaves. Dare I say that I miss the snow? Sometimes there is snow here, but its generally in January and definately not the 4-10 inches that we are used to! haha. I'm not saying its a bad thing. During tornado season, I would definately take a Buffalo snowstorm over a tornado warning!

So, in the spirit of the change of seasons and cousins in the North already preparing for chilly nights and snow, I have new toddler tees!

Available on red or navy long sleeves and in toddler sizes (2t-5t). They are made of super soft terry and black cordoroy eyes & mouth. Durable and kid tested. Jake has already started wearing his.

I have them already in my Etsy shop, but will be adding them to MHP this week.

Just looking at them makes me want to curl up on the couch with some hot cocoa & marshmellows!! :) Mmmmmmm

Lulu's Sweet Shop - October 25th 9 - 5

2008-10-19T17:40:00.003-05:00

The Tulsa Trendy Treasures group will be at Lulu's this Saturday! If you are local or in town, stop by for a cookie, lunch or just to browse some great gift ideas! Lulu's is in the cute plaza at 81st & Sheridan (8005 S. Sheridan Rd, Tulsa). They offer delicious pastries, cookies to die for and a wonderful lunch menu! Everything is from scratch, the entire shop is peanut free. She makes her vendors certify that all the ingredients she uses in the handmade goods and the ready for sale items she stocks are from peanut-free facilities.

The TTT group will be doing a drawing for a gift basket packed with fab goodies! Stop by and say hello!!

So much fun..

2008-10-08T00:36:00.003-05:00

Well, we survived the Harvest Moon Craft Show! It was great fun. The economy may be in the toilet, but people are still thinking of Christmas, and still wanting to shop. That is a good thing. Next the TTT girls have a small show at Lulu's Sweet Shop (for those of you who are in Tulsa - its 81st & Sheridan on Saturday, October 25th. She has awesome chocolate chip cookies. Mmmmm.)

Art on Main in Jenks is also coming up, so, now I'm working on stocking up the boutique. Speaking of... the Spotted Umbrella moved!!!!! Just up the block.. well, kinda mid-block. But maybe that means they'll get more foot traffic.

I'll be updating the website this week (wishful thinking) to include the monsters! They seem to be a big hit! Yippeee!!! And just for fun.. a picture of my little monster :)

Harvest Moon Craft Show

2008-09-23T23:25:00.004-05:00

Who: Me!! :)

What: Harvest Moon Craft Show

When: Saturday - October 4th from 9am - 4pm

Where: Faith Methodist Church - 7431 E. 91st St, Tulsa, OK

NOTE: I'll be in "the great hall" aka.. the gym :)

I'm busy working frantically on new items for the show, as well as some of the usuals, but with great new fabrics! Lots of fobs & wallets, wipe cases, nursing covers, and tie onesies!

PLUS new items!!! Something I like to call "Little Guy Ties" - Ties for 2t-5t; great for the little guys and reversible! 2 looks in one AND made in all the coordinating fabrics to match the tie onesies!! :) Also new is the line of "Mommy's Little Monsters" shirts in sizes 2t-5t. I even made a few for girls. Pink monsters of course, zebra horns. What could be better?

So, if you are in town, want to go to a great show to get you in the fall mood, stop by & stay hi! I'll be sharing a booth with Bair Creations and her tutu's are TOO TOO CUTE!!! She also has lots of great goodies. You won't be disappointed!!

We're back & ready for fall!

2008-09-07T17:06:00.003-05:00

Hello all! We survived our extended family vacation and are getting back to business! It was a great summer. Its sad to see it ending, but if I'm honest, I prefer Fall. I'm so excited for Fall!!! I love the crisp air, the warm colors and great smells. Ahhh. That been said, I'm gearing up for tons of shows, new ideas and flooding my sites with lots of great goodies.

What will be new for Fall you ask? ALOT of boy "stuff". Inspiration often comes from the things that are right in front of your nose, don't they? And altho I enjoy babies and those years of wipe cases and onesies, I'm moving into the realm of a little boy who wants fun tees. I plan to still carry the wipe cases and onesies, because they are really fun and super cute :) but, I am really looking forward to some of the new ideas I have. Mainly for little boys 2t-5t. So, those of you who have little boys, get ready!

Here's a small sneak peek! :)
For those are of you who are in the Tulsa area, come check out the upcoming shows list and stop by!

Last Minute Sale in the Etsy Shop!

2008-07-13T03:14:00.004-05:00

Hey all! I decided to have a last minute SALE in my ETSY shop! I'm getting ready for vacation and need a little $$ to be able to stop into the fabulous shops back home! :)

www.myhodgepodgerie.etsy.com

Mention my blog in the notes at checkout and receive a free gift!!

Sale runs now - July 19th.

Summer Sale - Only 2 left!!!

2008-07-10T22:35:00.003-05:00

Summer Sale - All "beachy" glass jewelry on sale! Only 2 bracelets left and only $10 each! Check them out while they last! Want a matching pair of earrings? Just email me!!

Shop Closed July 15-Sept 1

2008-07-10T22:28:00.006-05:00

Hey all! I'm getting ready to close the shop temporarily so I can enjoy some much needed R&R and family time. We'll reopen on September first with some new goodies and fab fabrics!

Have a great summer! Check back in September!

I had to have it!

2008-06-27T17:54:00.004-05:00

I was wandering Hobby Lobby the other day and came across this great "plastic straw" rug. On CLEARANCE! Normally $59.99 (which is absolutely insane for a plastic rug in my opinion), but on clearance for $29.99 then 1/2 off of that. I tossed it in my trunk and away I went.

I brought it home, ditched our brown outside carpet on the patio and put this baby down. Well, who knew that when I rolled it all out it would be such a great match for another fabulous Amy Butler fabric? WHO KNEW, I ask you? Well, maybe me. haha.. When I saw the big lotus/mum type flowers I went immediately to my favorite place - Etsy - and found these fabrics. And this, my friends, is how I spent my 1 hour of quiet time.

Oh yes, they are lovely. Oh yes, they are the coordinating prints on either side. ON YES, they even have a zipper on the back so I can pull them off and wash them up! Toddler friendly, husband approved. :D

Oh how marvelous, OH HOW WONDERFUL....

2008-06-23T17:06:00.006-05:00

Yeah, I know some of you may know that as an oldie but goodie hymn, but in this case, I am referring to my marvelous and wonderful new pillows! haha.. It really takes so little. :D

I realized some time ago, that I was not really enjoying any of the fabulous fabrics that I purchase. I drool over them, then wash them (haha) then I make something and sell it. Rarely was I making anything to enjoy myself! So, I picked out some fav's and whipped up these pillows.

I love them.

D & J love them.

Everyone is happy and we now have fabulous pillows on the couch!

Ahhhhh... the hallway bench is next! :D

Margaritas Anyone?

2008-05-30T09:24:00.004-05:00

I've been on a real card kick lately! It felt so good to pull out the paper and stickers and stamps. I haven't made cards in a long time, so this really had my creative ideas flowin'!

This is just one card that I felt I needed to share. I'll be posting more in my Playin' with Paper shop on Etsy over the next few weeks.

I unearthed my steckles for the "salted rim". Love it. :D

Mommy & Me Coffee Break

2008-05-18T22:48:00.010-05:00

I love when inspiration finds me in something so simple. :D

J & I started taking "coffee breaks" when we brought home the play kitchen. I would look at the menu and say "I NEED COFFEE!!!" and out from the play kitchen would come a small red plastic cup and the coffee pot. This quickly evolved into pouring water into the cups, and then bigger cups from the actual kitchen cupboard and so on. About 2 weeks ago, my "waiter" decided to sit down and take a break with me. He was so cute. He says "Mommy, I'm taking a coffee break too!" And this became a "time out" time, so to speak, for both of us. When things got too crazy around the house or I was getting frustrated I would announce "Lets take a coffee break!" and we'd pour something to drink and sit for a few minutes, giggling or talking or planning the rest of our day.

Well.. last week we were out and I came across these fabulous mugs. They are lightweight, really meant for kids to insert drawings into and I thought the perfect thing for our coffee breaks! We got them home and I picked out some fab Amy Butler paper (what else - haha) and had such a wonderful "gothic rose" mug for my coffee break, while J opted for some paper that had numbers & letters. Then it came to me.................FABRIC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! See, I would love to use paper. So versitile, and Lord knows I have enough of it, however, its not durable. at least not to sell. I don't have a laminating machine (hmmm.... no.. i'm not buying one. haha) but fabric I also have an endless supply of! So, a new product was born! :D

You can look for these goodies in the shop this week. I'll start with 6 fabrics and see if there is any interest. So far the collection will include: Mocha, Java, Non-Fat Latte, Pink Lemonade, Polka Dot & Monkey Business (ok, ok.. I was on a definately drink roll there, but I couldn't think of drink names for the last 2.)

If you have an idea, leave a comment! :D

Pretty n' Practical Totes

2008-05-16T17:49:00.007-05:00

A little something new i've been working on.... I call them "Pretty n' Practical Totes". They are not a shoulder bag, but, perfect for quick outings, trendy lunch bags or even tossing your shoes in (for those who change into sneakers and have to walk a mile to work - Em! :D) I think that would be considered a fashion faux-pas, BUT, at least the tote would be fashionable!

I made one with a waterproof liner in the inside for J too. I can use it as a wetbag for the 'just in case accidents' or going to the pool or even lunch! And well, I could resist the goldfish :D

I just listed a few in my Etsy shop! Go check them out! You can see my other listings for coordinating fobs & mini wallets!

Playin' with Paper

2008-05-10T15:54:00.008-05:00

Paper, chocolate... ahhhhh.. what a fab combination. I've been working on these over the past few weeks. They did great at the shows and make unique sudo-cards, a "sweet" spot to stash a gift card, or that favorite chocolate.

I'm in the process up uploading a few to my paper shop on Etsy. You'll have to go and scope them out.! A very tasty gift! The ones I have in the shop come with a Hershey chocolate bar. Just pull up on the ribbon and viola! Mmmmmmm

The Perfect Mug

2008-05-07T14:41:00.004-05:00

Ah... my love for Starbucks grows deeper. A pink, white, cream & brown mug? How perfect for moi! I HAD TO have it! So very "My HodgePodgerie-ish". hahaha

It really takes so little.

And the winner is...............

2008-05-07T14:30:00.003-05:00

Sorry! I almost forgot to post the winner of the secret little contest I was having during last month just to see who actually reads the blog. Not too many people do, but that doesn't make me not want to do it.. SO, Jacob helped me pick names - yep, old fashion style - fill up a small bowl with papers and pick.. So, LISA you are the winner! Email me your address and I will put your fabulous fob in tomorrow's mail!

Enjoy!!

Sweet Treats for Teachers

2008-04-30T16:42:00.004-05:00

Tis the season for ending the school year. I think its a sad time. I value my one day of sanity. I'm looking forward to 3 days next year!

But, I started making these peppermint patty treats! I originally did them for Mothers Day, but at the show Saturday, I had someone order a bunch for teachers, so.. I went with it. What a great idea she had!!!

The sneezies I did around Christmas time, and they were a big hit, so I am bringing those back!

J is for Jacob

2008-04-28T15:19:00.002-05:00

No - i'm not mia, I've been getting ready for a show this past weekend and going crazy. At the same time, I had to stop from that buzy-ness and make something for my son. :D

A friend of mine had some shirts made for her kids and I couldn't resist! At first I was going to order one but then I thought...duhhhhhhhhhhh I do have a large supply of fabrics and how hard can it be? Let me tell you... NOT HARD!

Not sure I will go in this direction with the shop, but I have already begun making them for all of Jake's little friends and our family. So cute!!

If you are interested, let me know.

Just for Me

2008-04-14T13:56:00.004-05:00

Well, I rarely make anything for myself, but my lovely husband & son bought me Amy Butler's Midwest Modern book for my birthday and I am OBSESSED!!!!!! Now I feel the need to track down out of print fabrics and make new pillows for the couch, recover our old bench in the hallway, make some casual pants and even make a quilt! hahaha

So, of course I ran to my fabrics, and pulled out this combination ... this pillowcase was the outcome. This is a small buckwheat hull pillow that I have. :) Check back to see what else I come up with!! :)

The smell of pencils

2008-04-12T16:26:00.004-05:00

What is better than new pencils? Colorful pencils that have your name on them! (or in my case, my shop name) I LOVE LOVE LOVE these! Aren't they fabulous? In "my hodgepodgerie" colors, I scored them at an online place (http://www.uniq-exp.com/). They were inexpensive and the fastest shipping ever! I am so excited!! I don't think I will give them away, I just want to stare at them, and maybe draw & sketch with them. Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.. gotta love new pencils.

2008-04-09T23:23:00.003-05:00

Happy Birthday to me! I am turning 28... again. hahaha.. Few years now, but thats ok. I've decided to be 28 eternally (and with the help of creams, potions and lotions. LOL). ANYWAYS... in honor of my birthday, I am offering free shipping on my Etsy site, April 10th - April 12th (midnight CST).

So come by, say happy birthday, and buy something!!! :)

Cheers!

A New Look!

2008-04-08T17:00:00.004-05:00

I would like to introduce a new look for My HodgePodgerie! A little more "boutique-y" looking. The site definately was in need of an overhaul. It was time. I've added tie onesies, bibs & wallets and am still working on pictures of the fobs & nursing covers! So many more ideas on the burner (and so many fabulous fabrics to play with!!)

I must admit, I do keep Etsy a little more updated than my website. It's easier to try out a new trend on Etsy, and I love getting feedback in the forums from fabulous people offering opinions & advice. So, My HodgePodgerie main site will be a place of gifts & goodies that are my standards, my mainstays. Etsy is a perfect place for me to try new items and post items that are limited in quantity!

Hope you enjoy the new look and check both shops!

*And, just a little test to see if anyone really is reading this blog....leave a comment here about my new look and your name will be entered into a raffle! On April 30th, I will pick a winner and that lucky person will win a fabulous new key fob! *

Cheers!

Welcome

2008-04-03T19:45:00.002-05:00

Here's a little plug for my friend Carrie. She is selling for a company called "Uppercase Living". Its wall words! They are great! So easy to put on. A zillion possibilities. You can order from their catalog or create your own words, sayings, phrases.

She had a party months ago and this was one of the things I ordered. I was waiting for the perfect day to finally put it on the door.

Don't you just love it?

Look what came in the mail!

2008-04-03T19:32:00.003-05:00

I RAN to the mail box the other day, just knowing it would be full of goodies!!! :)

Ok, I admit it. I have a slight fabric addiction. But who can resist these? New Amy, old Amy, Joel & Michael (my 2 favorite men next to Ben & Jerry-haha) some japanese import. Ahhhhhhh.. I can't wait to use these! Each has already been assigned a project, except for the new Amy B's. Hmm.. there is a wallet pattern i've been wanting to try out. :D

March Children's Goods Giveaway

2008-03-25T14:38:00.005-05:00

Today kicks off Funky Find's March children’s goods giveaway! There has been well over $1,000 worth of merchandise to give away. Fifteen lucky readers will receive three items each!

Please visit funkyfinds.blogspot.com for more details! This contest begins Tuesday, March 25th & ends at midnight CST Monday, March 31st. Winners will be chosen on April 1st by using a random number generator & will then be notified by email & announced on Funky Finds.

Thank you Alexander Henry

2008-03-20T23:51:00.004-05:00

I love Alexander Henry fabrics!!! When I saw this one, I HAD TO have it! It is home-dec weight and it was rather pricey. ouch. But again, I HAD TO have it! haha It is so chic, reds, blues, black, taupes and even a yellow (that you just cannot see in this particular case). Oh I LOVE IT!!!

Now, if you actually read this blog, or you know me, you know VERY well that I have no, none, ZERO need for more fabrics in my collection. In fact, this was the year to use my fabric stash before I purchase anymore. Yah.. that was just another new years resolution down the tubes. haha

Thank you Mr. Henry!

Fabulous New Fabrics!

2008-03-19T17:20:00.002-05:00

Well, I've been waiting for some sunshine to take pictures. It had been gray, overcast & rainy for the past few days. I love the start of tornado season (NOT!). So, this is what i've been working on while listening to the thunder booming. Now I just have to upload to Etsy!

Etsy Promo Blog

2008-03-12T22:08:00.002-05:00

Ok fellow Etsians and newbies. If you have not checked out this blog or you haven't added yourself to the list, do it! Its great *free* advertising for your shop! How can you go wrong? Spread the Etsy love people!! Check it out! http://promoblogforetsy.blogspot.com

Featured on Curiobot.com

2008-03-11T13:39:00.004-05:00

Looking for something uber-unique? You definately need to check out this website - http://www.curiobot.com/. Its "An archive of strange and wonderful products". The site makes me laugh out loud! There is a steak ring that I think Dave was salvating over, and a mocha dunk mug that is just too clever. But what is the real reason I want you to check out the site? Well.... I'm being featured on it! :) Actually, my new tie bib's are being featured! If you get a chance, check it out! It is very unique, strange and wonderful. :)

My Sewing Partner

2008-03-10T14:22:00.004-05:00

Its been a hectic week. I've been sewing away. Making sure lots of little guys have great little ties :) Lots of orders went out this morning!

This is my sewing partner - Maggie. She seems to have found a comfy napping spot. She has been keeping me great company the past few late nights of sewing. Now if she'll only let me use that pink "jellybean" material she keeps claiming is hers :) I have some plans for that!

Brand Spankin' New

2008-03-05T23:21:00.003-06:00

Brand Spankin' New, not even posted yet.. how cute are these? Have a little one that is in that drooling stage? A spin-off from my tie onesies, i'm using the same trendy fabrics but fusing them onto this soft white terry cloth bibs. Haven't posted them anywhere yet. I'm still taking pictures of all the fab fabrics that I have in my stash for the ties. But I promise I will try to post them soon.

Because of the Family & Baby Expo AND due to Funky Finds Blog (I'm advertising on that blog this month - check it out.. funkyfinds.blogspot.com or click to the right of my site, you can see the link) I am also declaring baby month in my shops! So, that means lots of new patterns, fabrics and baby items this month! I am also going to do a drawing at month end. More on that later :)

So far this month my new items are fabulous wallets & keyfobs and tie bibs. More to come.........

Tulsa Family & Baby Expo

2008-03-03T11:43:00.016-06:00

The Tulsa Family & Baby Expo was this past Saturday. Lots of excited newly preggers walking around, little babies and kids getting entered into baby contests! It was crazy. CRAZY! But so much fun! And.. Tulsa Trendy Treasures was there! Here are a few pics of our booth....isn't it purdy?
The group is made up of 5 talented, stay at home moms and each of us does a little something different. Its definately a one-stop shop!

Andrea - Aunnies T's; Adding a little BLING to your wardrobe has one-of-a-kind cross design shirts and uses swarvorski crystals to embellish them. She also carries really cool (and complimenting to any of her shirts) domino necklaces, belt buckles and frames. We are pushing her onto Etsy, slowly. Once she is there, you'll need to scope her out.

Amy - Possibilities; makes FABULOUS beaded & wired plates, mugs, spoons, spreaders, and crosses. You can check her out on Etsy too!

Ronda - Bair Creations; Specialty made nap maps, paci clips, the greatest bibs I've ever seen and hair clips. Her latest creation..........TOO TOO cute.. Tutu's! OH They are SO cute!!!!

Audria - OkieBead -Okie; Childrens jewlery & mommy bracelets using swarvorski crystals and pearls and sterling silver! Lots of other beaded necklaces & earrings. A definate must see.

and lastly, me. :) Its a great group. I am having lots of fun with them!

I am featured on Neatostuff.com!

2008-02-26T23:14:00.005-06:00

How cool is THIS?!?!?! I just received an email from "Neato stuff.com" telling me that I am featured on their site this week! YIPPPPEEEE! I must admit, I've never stumbled across the site before, but it is full of really "neat-o stuff"!! Its a shopping and gift ideas blog. Let me tell ya, I've already signed up for a weekly email of gift ideas & goodies :)
They featured my tie onesie. See it there? SEE IT?!?!!? I'm so excited. :) I love the tie onesies, I must say. On my trip to Texas I picked up some fabulous stripes and argyles. OHHHH I can't wait to post them! My little guy is way past the onesie stage, but watched yesterday & today as I sewed them and hung them on the rack waiting to be tagged. He says "momma.. are these mine?" I said no. He said "momma.. me want this". It had guitars on the tie (yes.. future rock star over here). So, I cut one out today and sewed it onto a t-shirt for me. He giggled when I put it on him today and said it was funny.. then told me he wanted a guitar. :) Ahhh.. innocence.

Well, check out their site (& my feature there!) www.neatostuff.com. It really is NEAT-O!! :)

Did you ever?

2008-02-26T17:18:00.006-06:00

Did you ever create something for a gift or a client and then not want to part with it? haha. I don't know where this fabric came from, but I love it!!!! I've made a few small things with it in the past, but using it for burp cloths was a first for me. I think this fabric is called Koto. I love the flowers, the writing, the chinese tower!
Now, I'm past the stage of even needing burps (unless God decides otherwise) so there is no good reason I can think of to keep these for myself, but, I do love them. :)

Now I need to think of something I can make myself to keep. Hmmm..maybe some hair pretties & small keychain wallets from the scraps!! :)

A few new things......

2008-02-25T16:42:00.008-06:00

Just wanted to share a few things I've been working on for the shows this week. Lots of little keychain wallets in Japanese fabrics and some great scraps I picked up from Madbags on Etsy. I love these. You just clip them onto your keys and go. I started making them when I realized that I didn't have to ALWAYS leave the house with a toddler in tow. That I could actually just go out alone (what a concept) and not take the ginormous bag with me! (and what a great feeling that was-haha) I also wanted to introduce a new item to My HodgePodgerie. Something I call a "mommy must-have". Wristlet keychains. I'm still trying to think of some trendy name for them. These are great for running errands or just locating your keys! I always seem to lose mine! BUT, now that I have the wristlet (and a matching wallet, I might add) I don't lose it! I get home, put it on the handle and know where it always is (at least for now) ;)
Again, these are great because the possibilities are endless! The fabrics.. ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh the fabrics!!! I'm hoping after the weekend to get them into my etsy shop. :)

Girl found alive underneath piles of fabric!

2008-02-24T13:45:00.010-06:00

So, I guess the concept of having a blog is that you actually BLOG on your page so that people know whats going on! :) hahaha.. Sorry to whoever does read this. I do have lots of say (you can ask anyone that knows me). I've been so busy getting ready for a few shows coming up that my affair with the computer has been cut short. Hopefully I can stay on top of things. Ok, thats out of the way. I have exciting things to share!

First I want to tell anyone in the area to get over to Jenks and check out my little space at "The Spotted Umbrella". Its on Main Street and an adorable little shop with lots of gifts & goodies inside. (Isn't it the cutest??)

There are a few etsians in the shop as well (BairCreations, Possibilities, AunniesT's). Its exciting.

Here is a pic from around Christmas time. I share my tiny space with Ronda of Bair Creations. She has the most fabulous bibs, nap mats & ribbon paci clips! (she has a slight obsession with ribbons, which must be why we get along so well-haha).

Second, I joined a group of talented crafty mama's - Tulsa Trendy Treasures. We've teamed up to do some bigger shows and some vendor days at local hospitals!! We will be at the Family & Baby Expo this coming weekend! ARGH! Wish us luck or stop by!

Controlled Chaos

2008-01-16T22:44:00.000-06:00

So, I've been literally organizing, purging, and trying to come to terms with the amount of "stuff" I have. I think I have a small JoAnns/Michaels/Hobby Lobby in my room. lol. How did it get to that point, I have no idea. But it is what it is, and I have to embrace it.

New Years Resolution part II........use what I have before buying more supplies. (we'll see how long that lasts. I find it hard to resist that 40% off coupon from Michaels. I feel like its wasteful if I don't use it) :D

So, here is it. My 'play' room. Well, the 2 major walls of it. The other 2 walls are windows and then my 3 years olds stock pile of toys. And that section has NOT been organized...........yet.

So much to do, so little time.

So, here is the tour... It isn't as colorful and fabulous as my friend Tara's bright orange space, but for now, it will due. :) Next to my desk is a fab new drawer system that my friend Ronda gave me. It is wonderful and holds all my receipts (yes - in an attempt to be organized) more paper and wrapping that I use and all the onesies, burps and tees yet to be used :)

My main long wall is home to 2 new cabinets (Target). One is full of fabric and the other is all my "Playin' with Paper" supplies, cards stamps and chipboard. The smaller white 3 drawer cabinet is a repurposed change table (Thank you Dish) and holds the rest of my ribbon supply, extra stamps and craft show supplies. I had my DH hang peg board for me and found this $8 towel rack at WM that hangs over the top of my peg board - holding some ribbon and my punches. Well, the punches I could hang. Some are in smaller drawers. LOL On the side of the change table are shelves that hold TONS of magazines aka inspiration.

Against the wall is another cabinet (Ikea) which holds bills and boring office stuff inside, but on top papers, and inks and more punches. The other peg board I am using for stock, which is great because now I can see exactly what I have! :)

Then, of course, is a small table that i can move around the room and can put all my works in progress on and orders to be mailed.

Do you have an organized craft room or tips for storage you'd like to share? Please do!

Happy New Year!

2008-01-02T14:31:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year!!! Every year I make New Year's resolutions that I have absolutely no intention of keeping. haha This year I am going to try to change that!

Organize
Find the fun in the day to day
Keep in touch
Get healthy - spiritually, mentally & physically

So there is my list without alot of explanation. I love the feeling of being able to get a fresh start. So, the goal for January is to get things moooooving.

Over the next few weeks ill be transforming my crafty space; some new cabinets, shelving, peg board. Transforming my website and working on some great new crafty goodies! Don't forget to stop by and say hey! :)

Happy New Year!
Blessings!

Darnaby Craft Show

2007-12-09T11:26:00.001-06:00

Wow.. I finally made it! My last craft show of the year! What a great feeling. I do enjoy doing shows, but they are so much work. Does any crafter sleep the week before a show? No matter how early I start working on 'stock' or how far ahead I might think I am, the week before the show I always stay up late, working on some last minute idea! CRAZY!

In my whirlwind of getting ready, I naturally forgot my camera. I try to take a picture of my space at all the shows I do, but this time was a blur. Thank God my friend Jessica came up from Texas to help and provide some comic relief. She was a great sales person for me! Afterwards we celebrated a great show and some other life moments at Los Cabos. Chips, queso, fajitas and margaritas... Is there anything better? :)

Here are a few of my big sellers: My baby wipe cases in some new fabrics and my latest.... "tie" onesies for little boys. I'm sorry, but being the mom of a little boy, I realized pretty early that there is just toooooo much cuteness for little girls in the clothing department and not enough in the boy department. So, my goal in the new year is to work on some cute onesies and outfits for little boys. Boys can be fashionable too! ;)

First Posting!

2007-11-26T19:23:00.000-06:00

Wow! First posting! I've been scanning other blogs, being sucked into peoples lives, been mezmerized by the creativeness of others and have been meaning to create a blog for a very long time. Time to take the plung friends! :)

My HodgePodgerie

Grand Opening of "CRAFTED"

Alliday Craft Show this weekend!!!

Darnaby Arts & Crafts Show

Does it have heart?

Happy Fall Y'all

My mission for today.....

Tooth Monster Pillows now in stock!

Survival of the Craft Shows

Upcoming Shows

Taking a break

Teacher Appreciation - Fabulous Fobs

Edison Spring Market - April 30th

Oh Boy! Its a Spring Sale!

Thanks!

Serendipity Market Craft Show

CLEARANCE SALE

New look, New website

Luck of the Irish

Cheers to a creative week!

Sunshine, Lollipops & Rainbows...........

It's been awhile since I've seen a rainbow, so I wanted to share this {Free} Rainbow Printable from Simple As That. What a great reminder for dreary days :)

http://rebeccacooper.blogspot.com/2011/03/rainbow-printable.html

Creativity

Mmmmmmmm Coffee

Motivation & Inspiration

Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Fundraiser

Simply put.... a SALE!

Merry Christmas!!

Thanksgiving Sale in my Etsy shop

An Affair of the Heart - Tulsa

Indian Springs Baptist Church Craft Show

War Eagle Craft Fair

Summer Break

New for spring/summer 2010

April 17th - Serendipity Market

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

Fobs are the Perfect Teacher Gift/Stocking Stuffer

Darnaby Craft Show - December 5th

Shop Closed July 12th - August 12th

Wristlets & Free Shipping

Teacher's Gifts

☆:*¨¨*:★:*¨¨*:☆ S-A-L-E ☆:*¨¨*:★:*¨¨*:☆

Rooster Days Festival - Broken Arrow, OK

My Handmade Registry....

Paper Shop Updated

BLOG CRAFT ROOM SALE

CPSIA Testing Complete

Doin' the Happy Dance!

Some Pretty New Things...........

Covered in threads

January Clearance Sale On Now!

Baby/Childrens Clearance Sale

Help Save Handmade in the USA

Shop Closed December 15th - January 3rd

A family challenge and new ideas

Teacher Gifts!

Darnaby Arts & Craft Show - December 6th

I am a Robot - Do as I say......

TTT November Shows

Let it Snow!

Lulu's Sweet Shop - October 25th 9 - 5

So much fun..

Harvest Moon Craft Show

We're back & ready for fall!

Last Minute Sale in the Etsy Shop!

Summer Sale - Only 2 left!!!

Shop Closed July 15-Sept 1

I had to have it!

Oh how marvelous, OH HOW WONDERFUL....

Margaritas Anyone?

Mommy & Me Coffee Break

Pretty n' Practical Totes

Playin' with Paper

The Perfect Mug

And the winner is...............

Sweet Treats for Teachers

J is for Jacob

Just for Me

The smell of pencils

http://rebeccacooper.blogspot.com/2011/03/rainbow-printable.htm l

☆:¨¨:★:¨¨:☆ S-A-L-E ☆:¨¨:★:¨¨:☆