Dollyknickers by CWDesigns225

How I spent my October

2011-11-03T09:09:00.000-07:00

One busy month after another! Family visits, doll shows, trips to Montana, and even health issues have filled the days and have made them fly by!!

Where to start! I guess I'll start with the new look for my blog. It's the newest from Google and I thought I'd give it a try. Feedback would help to know how you, my friends, feel about it. Having the older post easier to see is wonderful and just clicking on the picture takes you to the page to view them in full. I really like that.

I have a few things to share in pictures. I'll share some highlights of the trips to Montana to visit family.

I left home 3:30 am and was just this side of Pasco by sunrise

You can't know where you're going without knowing where you've been

Entering the pass through Idaho and into Montana

Coming out of the pass to see the endless stretch of ground to cover

The small mountain pass leaving Butte on my way to Sheridan

The beautiful valley with 5 mountain ranges surrounding it

Such a vast country. They call Montana "the big sky" state for a reason

I had to stop to take pictures of the 100's of deer in this field

Shooting with my zoom

They were so beautiful and so many!! A few got a bit frisky here

Entering Sheridan

This is going home, entering the pass early in the am again

There was a storm that came through the day before that had me worried

Lake Coeur d'Alene

Entering the Columbia Gorge, on the Oregon side

I knew I was getting close to home when it started to rain


Yup... I'm home.

It was good trip. I hope to return again this month before winter sets in and makes traveling over the pass impossible.

Miniature Knitting -- SOCKS!!

2011-10-05T20:50:00.000-07:00

These are such fun to make, rather addictive. I wanted to have slippers for the girls to wear when they are in their pajamas and thought, "Why not knit them socks in different weights of yarns?" So that's what I did, and then adjusted my pattern to fit the different types of feet, from the tippy-toe to the larger flat feet.
Using the furry eyelash yarn, I came up with a fabulous "boot"! Here a picture of them on a couple of models, one with tippy-toes and one with the smaller flat feet.

All are knitted using 4 size 0 double pointed lace needles or size 00 double pointed lace needles, in the round so there is never a bulky seam. They all have ribbed (knit purl) cuff, a turned heel and gusset and a shaped toe. Most of the socks can have the cuff fold over. The boots are too thick and are meant to stay up. Slippers are very short cuffed so no turn over is necessary.
They are a nice change from the plastic fashion shoes! For more information and designs come visit my website http://dollyknickers.org

Where did Summer go?

2011-09-17T11:29:00.000-07:00

Last week it was sunny and almost 100〫and today it is a good 25 degrees colder and raining!! We only had about one month of what you could consider summer weather. I shouldn't complain, it could be a lot worse. I just am not ready to welcome back the rain.

Well, let's see. What have I been doing? Aside from trying not to hurt myself more, hahaha, I have had much going on that seemed to keep me from accomplishing much. I won't bore you with the details... trust me, nothing exciting.

I did, however manage to do a few things. I finished a few back orders and did some fabulous new embroidery on the tee shirts for Barbie. Are you ready or this?

This lovely doll has been in my care for a few month now. She belong to a friend that asked me to make a special fitted wardrobe for her. She was a dream to work with. Her name is Lalka and she is a french doll. I wish I could give you all the details on her but I don' know them!! I just sew for dolls!! I'm not a historian!! LOL Anyway, she is back home now and her owner is happy with the outfits. I have to say that I miss her though...

Then I have these to show you.

These went to another friend in South America where it is Summer all year long!!

Next month is another doll show that I have to work like a mad fool to get ready for so I am making a bunch of these to see if they will do well. What do you think?

I did add some of these to my Etsy and the Dollyknickers.org website. Would love to hear your comments!

Good Grief... Now What!!

2011-08-09T18:03:00.000-07:00

Yes...this is my armpit! What happened? you ask. Well, just another incident in the series of unfortunate accidents that keep happening to me. This one by far hurt the most. I was helping my husband unload a dresser we bought for our guest room that was up on his dump truck. I was climbing up to remove the drawers to make it lighter. I grabbed hold of the rope tie on the side that was very secure and I stepped up onto the gas tank then with my other hand I grabbed the other part of the tie I thought was also secure but it wasn't. As I stepped up and pulled to get up on the bed of the truck the rope gave way and I lost my balance. I knew I was going down so I swung around to face the ground but doing that lined my pit above a bar shape like a hook that stuck out of the side and I came down on it. OUCH!! My husband saw me but was unable to get to me in time but he did catch me from hitting the ground. It didn't break the skin other then a slight scraping of the skin but it sure gouged deep into the muscle and then swelled up like a third boob!!! I took this yesterday and it was pretty colorful but today I really look like I've been beaten with a stick. Nothing broke and I can move my arm freely but it is sore. I'm so glad that bar wasn't sharp, I'd be hanging there like a fish!! Freak accident, a painful one but totally freaky.

"Toilets around Back"

2011-08-07T08:21:00.000-07:00

Are you kidding me???

This was so funny. On our way to the beach, we needed to make a pit stop. I pulled into a gas station and the kids ran in to ask for the key. The guy said there was no key but the toilet was around back! The two doors on the side of the building were locked so, puzzled, the kids looked "around back" and sure enough!! Hahahaha

It turned out that one of the side doors just needed a good hip bump to open so we didn't have to give the neighbors a show! What was also funny, there was a sink laying beside this toilet!! I wonder how many actually fell for it?? Hahahahaha

So What's New...

2011-08-06T21:22:00.000-07:00

Created a new couple of one-piece swimsuits designs.

Pink Pleasure

City Lights

Lower cut back

Normal cut

Both of these are made with Spandex/Lycra swimsuit material. They fit in all the right places and fit all the body types. Pink Pleasure has a ruffled lace on the neckline and City Lights has a small gather between the breast. Pretty and flattering. I added both these suits to my Etsy shop and City Lights sold quickly. All my swimsuits are sold with a gift beach bag that compliments the suit, a beach towel and a miniature fashion magazine.

Catching Up!!!

2011-08-05T22:01:00.000-07:00

Hello all, no, I haven't fallen off the face of the earth!! It has just been a crazy Summer. Weather has been strange, much cooler then a normal summer and wet. We have had some interesting company in our yard that has been a surprise as well as welcomed. The most surprising was the adult black bear! I think it was just as surprised to find itself in our yard as we were to see it there. It quickly returned to the woods and we haven't seen it since.


Adult black bear

A young buck and his female companion

Heading toward the river

One of the many baby bunnies saying hello!

These critters were some of the highlights of the past 2 months. I have to have my camera ready at all times! I missed the bobcat!!

I have been busy doing so many things I don't even know where to begin. It has been a busy time of family visits too. I have my nephew visiting from Wisconsin right now. He will be here for 2 weeks. We have gone to the beach, visited the mall and toured Fort Vancouver so far and that brings us to day three! I think he is having fun. It is his first time being out of his home state, first time to see the ocean, first time to see "real" mountains and a live volcano and visit the most amazing waterfalls. I have a packed schedule for him. I hope I can survive it!! LOL
Truly I just want him to have a great experience and take home fabulous memories. I'll share a few of the photos that show some of the high lights starting tomorrow. Right now, I'm off to bed... today was exhausting!!!

Warmer Weather Fashions

2011-06-07T17:00:00.000-07:00

I'm having a blast with the many miniature embroideries I have to add to these great tee shirts. The butterfly one above sold two days after I offered it in my Etsy shop!! I wasn't quite ready to let it go but the lovely lady that bought it send me the sweetest letter and photos of her special doll wearing the outfit.

All the tee's come with leggings or Capri style shorts in a variety of colors, gray, blue, pink, purple, yellow, green, black and white. The tee's are also in the same available colors. I'm working on the blues right now, and here are a couple more great designs.

More to come....

A Challenge Conquered

2011-06-01T19:07:00.000-07:00

The challenge was to create a
one piece bathing suit in the style of the 1900's bathing attire. I found it was a difficult task and had many designs go into the trash can with a few under my breath exclamations!

Then it hit me like a brick and I came up with a workable solutions and prototype.

That is what you see my handsome Mr. Smith wearing here.

From this point, fine tuning the design and adding features and accessories, all the while making sure the end product looked manly and flattering, to come up with the following design. My friend that challenge me to make these was thrilled and they are now on their way to be worn by his special dolls.

All the hems and trim is sewn by hand and pressed. These will fit 10 to 13 inch doll torsos. They are not tight, they fit so there is no bunching in the crotch area. I hate it when suits bunch up, don't you?

First we have dear Steven modeling the red cotton and Lycra suit with racing stripes on the side and featuring a buckled belt and belt loops. Also a leather pouch with snap slides onto the belt. Steven is also wearing a pair of my hand made sandals, in red leather and sea green grommets. I think he looks rather dapper.

Here we have Ben and Philip, (Ben has his back turned), sporting the other two samples. Ben is wearing the blue cotton interlock fabric and Philip is wearing the black Lycra active wear fabric, both with the same features and accessories as the red suit worn by Steven.


I think they all look pretty hunky. They are being watched by appreciating eyes!! What do you think? All the swimsuits in this style will be sold through my Dollyknickers.org website. You can order at any time, the color depends on the fabric. If you have a color you prefer, let me know. I promise to make nothing but high quality finished products. These are priced at $22.95.

Here is a closer look at Steven's sandals. They slip on and off easy and stay on without a problem. These are for sale on my Dollyknickers website. I will have this style available in brown and black, (grommets vary in color). Orders are welcomed and appreciated.

These fit Ken size feet but if you are needing them to fit other male dolls like the My Scene guys, whose feet are smaller, or GI Joe type, that have bigger feet, just let me know what doll you have when ordering. There is one price for all sizes, $12.

Let me know what you think please!

ETSY BNR Treasury!

2011-05-07T08:45:00.000-07:00

I found a great new way to show off the things in the etsy shop. BNR Treasuries!! BNR stands for "Buy and Replace" If it is an open BNR, anyone can buy in. If it is a team effort you must join the team. I'm still very new at this part of the game but so far it has been fun. Here's the link in case you want to take a peek! http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4dc553ba563b8eef9367e181/open-i-3-bnr-total-sales-188

Fun with Embroidery

2011-05-03T07:21:00.000-07:00

Just a quick show and tell! I have had some fun with adding embroideries to some of my tee shirts and tank tops. They can add a lot of personality to the dolls. I have been adding items to my Etsy Shop. I'll have some of these in there soon, hopefully in the next couple of days. Life has just been so busy lately!! All I want to do is sew and all I get to do is run errands!!! LOL

Gouly Girl Tee

Pink Metal Arm Bracelet & Ring

Dare You!!

I do have to show off this lovely sweater dress, that is gorgeous on its own but I made it to work well with the poodle skirts. This one here was a custom order. I matched the blues in the poodle to the sweater. I can do many color combinations. This sweater is made with a zipper and snap latch in the back and as you can see, very form fitted! Looks fabulous on the belly-button style bodies like the Fashionista Barbies or it also fits well on the twist and turn or wasp waist girls. The sweater knit fabric hugs the body.

The sweater dress is lovely on its own with a few accessories. I added a chain belt and a fabulous brooch.

Here you can see the zipper and snap clasp detail.

And this is how wonderful it goes with the poodle skirt.

I like to give gifts and the lovely "B" brooch is my gift with a purchase of the poodle skirt and sweater set.

I do have a few available in my Etsy shop and you can order custom colors at my Dollyknickers website.

The poodle skirt has a rolled hem and elastic waistband and snap closure in the back. The elastic makes the fit perfect whether it is over a sweater or a lighter tee shirt, it always fits right.

Of course, bobby socks are a must with Poodle Skirts. These are my perfect fit design. Made in the same contour of the dolls foot and trimmed to the minimalist seam bulk.

They are designs to work with the sneaker type shoes.

And always look smashing!!

Perfect for the sock hop!

A pair of these are included with every Poodle Skirt/Sweater combo.
( I don't offer shoes, though. I will as soon as I find a reasonable source supplier.)

Well, that's it for now.... I got to run. I'll be back to play later and will share some more fabulous embroidered fashions. I have some new designs I'm dying to use!!! Bye!

Has it REALLY been that long??

2011-04-29T18:01:00.000-07:00

Where does the time go?? I swear I just blinked and I was at the doll show!! So much has happened I don't know where to begin. I got a new car!! Yaaaaaaaa!!! My perfect hubby bought me a Hyundai Sonata and I love it!!

Isn't it pretty?

We have had a terrible Spring. I could count on one hand how many nice sunny days we've had and I'd have three finger and a thumb left over!! It even was trying to snow yesterday morning!! I can not complain though really, my goodness, we haven't had the devastation from the tornadoes like they had in Alabama. Scary!! My heart goes out to all those families that have lost so much including loved ones.

Some of my family came out to visit from Montana, my sister and husband brought my mom out. My poor mom was so sick the entire time. We had one good day that allowed me to take her to see her sister but after that she was in bed!! My sister and her husband took a little trip to the coast for some alone time and ended up cutting that short, partly because of the lousy weather but mostly to take mom back home. It was just bad timing for this visit. I never even got to see my sister because I got sick!!! Go figure.

I have spent little time in the doll studio the past few weeks. But I did do a few things. A friend contacted me to make some replacement items on a vintage outfit. Here are a couple of photos of the completed outfit. I made the socks and the little scarf.
I had to search high and low to match that turquoise as well as the texture for the socks. I found a new pair of anklet socks that matched so I made the main sock out of one. The trim at the top was a challenge. I had to paint the succotash trim with a yellow dye. The neck tie was made from a vintage hankie that I took a strip from and rolled hemmed the edges. My friend was thrilled.

Well, I have more to share but I'll start another thread for that. Thanks for listening!

Doll Show this Weekend!!

2011-03-17T16:50:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited and so nervous at the same time. I've been working my fingers raw trying to get as many things as I can ready. I put my embroidery machine to good use with my version of the classic "Poodle Skirt".

I have 4 dog motifs to work with, 3 poodle and one really cute chiwawa with bone.

I'll add more pictures later. I have to run for now!

Anniversary Week!!

2011-02-27T06:24:00.000-08:00

29 years ago I married the love of my life. We might be older but our love is as young as ever!

Michael took a whole week off which was the best thing he could do. We are enjoying just being at home in the Dollhouse. It has been cold and there is snow on the ground which just makes everything that much more magical.

There is a funny story in this. We wanted to go out and have a nice dinner on Friday, which was the 25th, our actual anniversary date. We got all dressed up and got in the car only to find out it was dead! Mike had left his key in the ignition and it was partly engaged so the battery was flat. So, back in the house we went and I called pizza delivery and we had pizza and champagne for our anniversary dinner! It was really good!!!

For the most part, we have been just sitting around and playing on our laptops. Mike bought me a new MAC Pro and he took my old laptop and has been restoring it back to factory specs to make it usable for him. I LOVE my MAC!!! It is designed to keep up with what I need to do. Mike also bought me the macro lens I wanted for the Cannon. I couldn't help but squeal when he gave me both the MAC and the Macro lens!!!!

What did I give him? Sadly, not much. He bought himself a few toys and he was happy with that. I'm very grateful to have a husband thats greatest joy is to lavish me with gifts but to be honest, I never expected that. I'm happy just to have him in my life. ♡

SNOW Feb. 16th 2011

2011-02-17T09:57:00.000-08:00

It was so beautiful but melting fast!

New Embroideries

2011-02-16T05:40:00.001-08:00

I am having a blast making these!! All are machine embroidered which takes a little forethought and special prep work but so worth the effort. The only sad part is I can not offer the scull print pants for sale because I don’t have that fabric anymore. But these still look great with solid black pants or mini skirts.

The tank top just slips over the head of most Barbie type dolls. It can be made with an opening in the back like the top in the middle picture.

I’ll have many more to share soon!!

Retro Full Circle Skirt

2011-02-10T05:56:00.001-08:00

This is a full circle skirt with an elastic waist and a zippered top in lovely Spring colors. Full tulle half slip adds a bit of fun. This fits only the early body types of Barbie and fashion dolls. My red-haired beauty here is a mid-sixties bubble cut that I had to give a new face to. This style is well suited for this doll and the era she is from.

The skirt band is eyelet lace elastic and I took advantage of the eyelets to weave a chiffon ribbon in a matching color, finishing the look with a bow.

Next up will be some fun embroidered outfits that I’m getting ready for a show next month. My very first doll show ever!!! March 18th and 19th in Puyallup. I am sharing a booth with a dear friend that makes incredible dolls she cast the heads of and paints the faces and then puts them on Barbie type bodies. If you would like to see some of her wonderful creations, look in my favorites Links for “Wildflower Dolls”.

Later!!

My Ode to Christian Dior

2011-02-06T16:41:00.001-08:00

I thought I’d step away from my normal “comfortable” line of designs and do something fancy. I salvaged a lovely vintage crystal buckle from an old dress that was going to the trash. It was my inspiration. The fabric I was amazed to find at a Goodwill! Five yards of beautiful blue silk linen, for $2.99!!! Someone was planning a nice outfit. Fortunately for me, they gave up!! My lovely lady has white lacy thigh high hosiery that fit perfectly into her matching blue strappy heels. Her up do was a total accident when I was trying to figure out what to do with her long hair. I started with a ponytail and slide the band as close to the end as I could, then twisted it and wrapped the end in on itself and secured both sides with a small bobby pin. The flower is stuck in with a pin. What you can get away with when you’re a doll!! All in all, I make it sound like it was pretty easy but it took me all day to finish this!!!

The bow snaps on.

Hope you liked this. I’ve got a few more surprises coming up!

Baby, it’s cold outside!!

2011-01-05T05:41:00.001-08:00

It has been a bit frosty out… no snow, just frost. There was talk of snow but I think it was only hopeful wishing. Still it has been at and below freezing.

I emptied the fountain several times only to have it fill again with rain. Now it is solid ice. Looks really cool! These aren’t the best shot because it was dark out and I relied on the flash.

The river is amazing right now. With all the rain we got, it is running very high and fast. It is twice as wide as it was during the summer. Fishermen are interesting to watch standing in their boats. It is a real balance act as the boat sways in the currant.

I took my feeders for the hummingbirds down but the little guys wouldn’t go away and keep flying outside the window looking for me! So I put the feeders out for them in the morning and bring them in at night so they don’t freeze. The birds seem to be quite happy with this arrangement, but if I don’t have them out by 8 they come looking for me!!

There are 3 beautiful males and at least 2 females that frequent the feeder. This one is playing peek-a-boo with me. They have such unique personalities.

Well, it is a new year now. Hard to think of where the last one went! I hope this year proves to be a good one. My goals are simple, I would just like to catch-up with all the things I have on my list of things to finish. Then, of course, it would be nice to lose a few pounds!! Hahaha

I hope everyone’s 2011 is a good and prosperous year.

A Gift from a Wonderful Friend

2010-12-28T11:42:00.001-08:00

I just had to share this with everyone. I received an unexpected gift from my friend Andrea, the maker of Andy’s Rascals, (http://www.etsy.com/shop/andysrascals )

I love mermaids and the magical stories around them and this was the best surprise I could have received!! This is how they looked when I unwrapped them, and then discovered they were meant to kiss!! That inspired me to create the magical kingdom under the sea where a human boy could live forever with his mermaid love, as long as they were together. Her kiss gave him her love and the ability to live under the water. Her pearls gave him her magic to allow him to be part of her underwater world.

Happily ever after….

Reunited with an old friend

2010-12-25T10:50:00.001-08:00

I’m very pleased with the results of this labor of love. This doll was given to my daughter, Dori, in 1979. It is the Beauty Secrets Barbie. This was her favorite even though the doll’s hand fell off, a little girls I babysat cut her hair off and the dolls joints were so loose you could just about tie her in a knot!!

A couple months ago, Dori asked if I could repair or do something to fix her very worn-out doll. Sadly, the only thing I could salvage was the head, which I will re-paint, re-root and find a new body for.

In the meantime, I found another Beauty Secrets Barbie on Ebay,

used and needing a thorough “spa treatment” but her body was sound and completely in tact. Her hair was very dirty yet long and full. Her face was perfect, eyes bright and full of life, all the face paint was great. There was a smudge over her left eye that looked like an extra eyebrow. I was able to remove it with no damage.

After washing and conditioning her hair, I boil permed it and then fingered combed it to style. Then added a beautiful bow.

Next she had to get underwear and a slip

Then the very special crocheted dress that I made for this doll over 25 years ago. It needed some repairs, just a change of hooks and eyes in the back to give it a more finished look.

Now the hat and a special hat pin, a perfect pair of sandals and she is ready for another special place in my daughters heart.

Trying something new - Video

2010-11-27T17:48:00.000-08:00

Thought this would be fun to try. Hope it works good. I worked on it for over an hour, (maybe two!) It seemed to me to be a good idea to do a video of the different hats and scarves for both the Barbie and larger Tonner dolls. Hope you like it!

Finally Days at the Library

2010-11-26T17:12:00.000-08:00

Well, I took some more pictures of the display case today since I could not find the pictures I took before. I don't know what happened to them? Oh well.

This is the lower case as it is at the library. There are a few changes from the set up I did at home.

This is a closer look at the room segments.

PJ Party in the bedroom

Winter wear display

Entertaining guest in the livingroom

Checkers in the game room

Some of the girls in lingerie

Playing with kittens

The month was a success and so much fun. I hate to have to take it down but my time there is over on Tuesday. But I have the case booked again next year in April!! YAAAA!!! That will be warmer weather time so that means the return of the Bikinis!!!! Hehehehehehe!!

Local Library Display

2010-11-22T19:22:00.000-08:00

Our local library has a wonderful little display case that they offer to the public to display things of interest and they invited me to show some of my dolls and clothing. These pictures show how the case is set up in diorama style.

The bottom part of the case is in two sections so I created a living room setting on one side and a game room setting on the other.

All the furniture is made by my friend Ron Shivvers. This is the beautiful hemlock set he made just for me. It has black walnut accents. Hemlock is a softer wood then what he normally uses but I found the board and fell in love with the gorgeous grain. I challenged him to make something with it and he did not disappoint me at all!! I love it!!

The game room is fun. I made the checker board and the checkers and my grandson helped me make the box that is in the drawer of the wall table. The display case is very narrow, front to back, about 11 1/2 inches. It took a bit of doing to get things to fit and look comfortable. I found some of the miniatures at a show, like the mini pop cans, that made it look more convincing.

I'll have to share the upper shelf tomorrow because the pictures are on my other computer in the studio and it is late, too late to go get them tonight. Hope you enjoyed seeing it so far.

Our snow stopped for now. Temperatures have dropped and there is a freezing rain coming down. The report says to expect more snow. I hope so!!

SNOW 2010

2010-11-21T16:40:00.001-08:00

Our first snow of the season!! I'm so excited! I love snow and I have been hoping for a big enough storm to maybe snow us in for at least a few days, though I would prefer it to be a month! It would be the best excuse to keep my hubby home!

Look at the size of these flakes! They are about the size of a half dollar. It is very hypnotizing to watch them slowly falling. So beautiful and peaceful.

These pictures were taken about an hour after it started to snow and there is about 2 inches on the ground now. It is still coming down. I wonder what we will wake up to in the morning.

This is looking at the driveway which now is very white with snow. Mike should be coming home any time now. The temperatures are suppose to drop so ice is expected. That is a concern because our driveway is steep and could be dangerous.

I can't help loving this white stuff. It reminds me so much of living in Wisconsin. It also snow the day I got married to Mike which was like the ultimate gift. I don't wish anything bad or any hardship for anyone but I really would be happy to see it continue to snow. I hope all of you stay safe and are enjoying the weather.

Ready for Winter

2010-11-13T10:22:00.000-08:00

As you can see, my hand is doing much better now. The fingers are still stiff but I have been able to do some knitting. These are a few of my latest designs for the hat and scarf sets. As you know, I don't follow patterns so each set is unique. There are cables and twist and lacy designs that add so much personality. The scarves are 12 to 14 inches long and can be wrapped and tied in many creative ways. Flower motifs add style and flare.

These will be added to my Dollyknickers website and available to purchase or if you have a certain color in mind and pattern, I can customize a set. Leg warmers can also be made to match.

Order early, I need up to 2 weeks to complete a set. http:www.dollyknickers.org

I'm Back!!

2010-11-13T09:18:00.000-08:00

I know... it wasn't my plan to take this much time away from blogging. Things have been keeping me busy. I love fall but it just takes me forever to adjust to the daylight savings change. My sleep pattern gets all messed up!! Does anyone else have that problem?

Then the weather has been rainy and damp, cold and foggy. Now all the leaves are on the ground and the trees look spooky in the fog. It is raining right now. I can see the river again from the house. I did get some amazing photos when everything was ablazed in color.

This has been the most incredible fall for color this year. It is sad that the show is over now. Here's to hoping for a white winter!!

What a Summer Part 2

2010-09-18T07:57:00.000-07:00

So, this is what happened... as I was telling you before, Mike and I were having a great time hopping on the rocks along the river bank. We had gone a long ways and I took some amazing pictures. Well, we got to a part where the rocks were quite far apart. Mike's legs are a bit longer then mine so he was able to hop to the next dry rock fairly easy, but, it was a little farther then my legs could hop!! I really thought about it too, I didn't want to go around the area because there were loads of brush so I had a choice to stop and go back or try to hop on the closest rock to me that happened to be wet. Trust me, DO NOT HOP ON WET ROCKS!!! I did the leap of faith but that sucker was slipperier then snot so down I went!! Now, under normal circumstances, I would have just sat there and laughed but I sort of got hurt pretty bad. There was no where flat to place my hand to catch myself so my fingers on my left hand simply folded backwards and I heard a crack. OUCH! I did not break anything, which is amazing, but my ring finger and the middle finger were severely sprained. My camera went in the river too. Mike rushed over and helped me up and grabbed the camera out of the water. I felt a little bit faint so I had to sit down again for a few minutes. We climbed up the bank and headed home. I could feel my fingers swelling. I didn't think to take my ring off... The first two pictures here are the next day and just before I went to the jeweler to have my Grandmother's ring she left me cut of my finger...

When Mike grabbed the camera out of the water he took the film disc out. When we got home he checked to see if it was okay by putting it in his phone. Pictures were fine but we weren't sure about the camera. My sweetheart of a husband decided to take me right down to the store and bought me a new camera!!! Not just any camera, but a fancy Cannon EOS Rebel XS he had planned on surprising me with!!! I took all of these pictures with it.... AWESOME!!!

These two are after the ring was cut off. I didn't even break a nail!!! Isn't the bruising a lovely shade of black?

Just to let you know, my fingers are doing fine. They are stiff to bend into a fist and my strength is limited but I don't plan on fighting or hitting anyone. Also, my little camera that took a dive has recovered!! Amazing! A couple days later, Mike announced "It's Alive!!!" So now I have two cameras which is good because my fancy camera doesn't take video and the digital does. Best of both worlds.

And my Grandmother's ring can be mended and sized to my finger in case it doesn't return to it's normal size.

So, just to re-emphasize a word of caution... Don't try to hop onto wet rocks in the river... stick to the dry ones!!

What a Summer or What Summer??

2010-09-14T09:57:00.000-07:00

What Summer? is pretty accurate. Weather has been strange everywhere. Some places have had record temperatures but here in the Great Northwest it has been a very mild summer with very few hot days. I like the cooler temps so I'm really not complaining.
I did have a busy summer with family visits, canning, berry picking and projects around the dollhouse. But my latest activity includes a promise to myself... I promised to take better care of ME!!
I've been walking 3 times a week and following a very scheduled and strict diet plan... no, I'm not starving myself... actually, I'm eating more often just smaller portions. I haven't been hungry yet!
Mike goes with me on a walk at least once a week and the following pictures are from a couple Sundays ago when we had quite the adventure along the Lewis River.

I had to take a picture of my new walking shoes. They don't look that nice anymore.

The day was beautiful and the river just invited us to walk along the bank... more like hopping from rock to rock! It was so much fun! I haven't hopped rocks along a river for 30 years at least! It wasn't as easy as I remember it! Hahaha!

This shot was not so bad but then Mike snaps the real glamorous me! Don't worry I made it.

When river rock hopping, it is important to stay on the dry rocks. The wet ones are slipperier then snot!! I found that out the hard way. I'll tell that story next with pictures. I have to run some errands right now so until later...

I loves ya!!

Grandkids are so much Fun...

2010-08-19T16:00:00.001-07:00

I got to spend some "quality" time today with my grandson, Isaac, a feisty 7-year-old and ALL boy!!! He gets his curly locks from me, of course. Mom was busy doing some paperwork for us so Isaac and I did our own thing. We had a busy day that included him patiently waiting for me to get a new tail light bulb for the car, going to the bank and to the store for a key and to pick up a container of broken ceramics for making mosaics, cruising a garage sale, and picking up a few groceries. He was so good, so, of course, he made out like a bandit!! He got a pop at Burgerville, a new toy machine gun of some kind that is like 4 different toys in one, two really cool tee-shirts at the garage sale, a Sponge Bob Calendar, and then a fabulous lunch at home, turkey sandwiches. After lunch, I told him that we would make one of his stuffed animal friends a gi (gee). So, here is the final result. This is "Barf" who is now "Barf the Ninja" wearing his new gi and black belt. Isaac helped with the pressing the seams and he dressed Barf. His mom helped tie the belt since neither of us knew how it was done. I learned it is wrapped twice! Cool.

Isaac poses with his Barf. I don't think he knew I was taking his picture too or he would have hammed it up some.

"Barf the Ninja" seems appropriate. For a Beanie toy, he seems to have the look for a ninja, or at least once the gi was on he got an attitude!!

Don't mess with this mutt, he just might hurt you!!

Isaac was very pleased. One down, two more to go!! I need a nap!

Where does the time go!!!

2010-08-06T09:10:00.000-07:00

Wow... July was here and gone before I knew it!! What a great month. Very busy with family visits and yard work!! It really hasn't been a terrible Summer so far. It has felt more like Spring and since we didn't have a Spring, I think it is wonderful. Makes me wonder about Fall and Winter though.... hmmmmm....

So, to share some updates... not much in the fashion making, except I did create a couple little numbers for my Miss Piggy doll that are very cute and totally left Mr. Kermit completely smitten.

Here she is in her pretty pink polka-dot pinafore pampering her prized petunias in a precious piggy pot. Kermit was so taken by her beauty that he went down on bended knee and... yup! Popped the big question!!! Miss Piggy was so excited, but she kept her poise, (between you and me, you could have knocked her over with a feather!!) She, of course, gave a positive answer to the proposal. (Did you think she would say no??)
" OH, Kermie!"

Then Piggy paraded her pleasingly proportionate posterior proudly in her sexy 2-piece bikini.
It pack a powerful punch!! Poor Kermit, he didn't know what hit him!!

Things did get a little steamy, so much so that I had to make them stay on different shelves. Kermit just couldn't get over his lady love looking so scrumptious. He almost fell off his perch!

Makes me worry about leaving these two alone. I might have some surprises!!

Awesome New Bed

2010-07-08T14:35:00.001-07:00

This is the bed Ron designed. It is made of cherry wood and is very solid. It is one sixth scale to a queen size bed. I just finished the mattress pad here.

I went on to make fitted sheet, flat sheet with embroidery along the edge, two pillow cases with the same embroidery and a retro coverlet/spread.

Notice the side tables go very well with the bed and create quite a beautiful bedroom. I then added the coffee table to the end of the bed and the wall table became a dressing table by adding a framed mirror Ron also made, (as he says "it's just junk wood, just to see how it would do". If all doll furniture was made like his "junk wood" we would all be happy!!) He will be adding the mirror to his line of fine furniture, made of course with the finest of wood too.

It is a pretty little bedroom and so much fun to decorate. Notice Tinker is checking everything out to make sure it is all right.

"Yikes!!! I didn't know you were coming to visit!!" Oh dear, Samantha just got out of the shower and was planning to go to bed early. "I wasn't expecting anyone until tomorrow! Look! I'm all wet and my hair is a mess!!"

Gee, I wish I looked that good coming out of the shower!! Com'on Sam, just do a pose or two so I can take some pictures to show off the bed.

"What??? I'm in a towel!! What can I do in a towel??"

"How's this?" I think she is being a little snooty but then again, I did catch her at an awkward time. I'm really sorry Sam. "Well, stop taking pictures then! That's enough, I want to get in bed..... turn around please..... I sleep in the buff so TURN AROUND!!!" Oh!!!!

She is so fast!!! Just that quick she was under the covers with her dignity safe.

"Say 'Goodnight Sam'" Okay... Goodnight Sam...

First Day of Summer..

2010-06-22T07:13:00.000-07:00

I know, the first day of Summer was yesterday but I was a little busy to add this. It is so cloudy and cold it is hard to believe it is summer anyway! I'm sure it is going to turn blazing hot and we will have something else to complain about! Hahaha... Natural complainers we humans are!

This is Summer, my newest add to my bikini line. She was actually created for a customer but I haven't heard from him yet so if she stays she has a place in my family of dolls.

This was such an easy hat to make! I should make a video as it would be a fun project for kids.

Summer looks great in hers. Turquoise just seemed bright and sunny, even though we didn't have any sun to spit at...

The set is made to either be a bikini swimsuit or could be lingerie. I made a pair of skinny pants to go over the bikini bottoms and the cover-all jacket and hat are made from the same netted fabric. Summer comes with her own beach bag that holds her embroidered beach towel, that my grandson helped to cut out, and of course, one of her favorite magazines. Shoes to match complete the look.

So if summer ever arrives at least Summer will be ready!!

Second Guest Room

2010-06-18T12:46:00.000-07:00

So, this is the second biggest bedroom upstairs, where Mike had his office but then wanted to move to the smallest room. The window here faces the front of the house, over-looking the driveway. You can see the river when the trees lose their leaves but the view in the smallest room is beautiful a year long as it looks up the hillside with all the huge rocks and ferns.

Anyway, this room is big and can handle color. We bought a bedroom set off of Craig's list that we both thought would make a wonderful guest room. It had presence, if you know what I mean. I never in my life thought I would ever choose any form of orange to paint a wall but this was a color I was moved to get. It is a burnt orange or sunset orange and warm and rich. The adjacent walls will be painted a toasty mocha to compliment the warmth.
This is my daughter, Dori, and her husband, James, making it look easy. I painted too, I just had to stop and take pictures!

Two coats later, we moved in the furniture. Mike hung a picture of "Sleeping Beauty" that we made the frame for a few years ago. I put the new mattress pad and sheets on, added the pillows and...

Voila! A lovely room to share with our guests.

We still have a few things to add. The rest of the bedding, a nice quilt and I'm looking for a vanity to match this set and a sitting chair and maybe a couple more pictures will finish it perfectly.

Vamping up at the Dollhouse

2010-06-18T11:49:00.000-07:00

Mike decided to take this room as his office. It is the smallest of the upstairs room but it has a beautiful hardwood floor. So the first picture here is of the before and as you can see the previous owners tried to be creative. But this wasn't going to do for Mike's office space. I asked him what colors he would like and he surprised me with wanting a red, yes, I said "red", wall for accent. We went and looked at paint colors and he picked this one.

It was a chore to cover that mural and repair the damage from taking the scripture of the wall, it was glued on then painted over. So on with the red. I was amazed at how much depth it created. So on with the second coat and it warmed up even more. We choose a moss green for the other wall but the paint I bought was too blue so with my daughter, Dori's help, we used what was left over from painting the guest room downstairs and it turned out perfect. As you can see, Mike was happy taking it all in when he came home to a ready to set up, freshly painted, office space just for him.

The desk was a little too big to get through the door, the top of the desk was removed and that still wasn't enough so the door frame had to be chiseled away. Mike can repair that later.

The set looked wonderful and went well with the color of the walls.

Mike had to test out his chair. Of course, his kitty, Sophie, had to invite herself to join him.

I need to take a photo at night or at least later in the day so you could see the view of the hillside out back. It make this a great space and will make things more pleasant for Mike when he has to spend time working on his computer.

Now on to the next room!!

Second Furniture Design

2010-06-13T12:01:00.001-07:00

At first glance you might think this is the same furniture as before but look closely at the legs and that is where you will see the difference. Ron made this set in hopes to offer top quality craftsmanship but at a little lower price. This is still heirloom furniture and will last for generations.

As you can see, it works well with the couch. This set is made with black walnut and a small band of maple for highlights all in a natural finish. Nothing is stained, just rubbed with tung oil to bring out the natural beauty. All the drawers work smoothly and have a beautiful sterling silver pull knob. Ron will be making these sets in many different types of exotic woods as they become available to him.

I think it makes a beautiful room.

It is a perfect set for setting up dioramas, for just play and pretend time. And as you can see, it is ageless as far as how old you are.

If you are interested in this furniture and any other items Ron creates, you can find them on my website, http://dollyknickers.org under the heading "Furniture".

House on the Hill Diorama

2010-05-30T10:31:00.001-07:00

If the pictures look familiar it's because they are photos I took of our home on one of our walk abouts. I figured I could not upset anyone by using my own photos to create these lovely "paintings". Again I use a special filter on the photo program I have to make them look just like real pieces of art and not just photos. I still hope to have frames one of these days.

It looks like there might be another budding romance developing here. Erica invited Chad over to see her new paintings. I think she had some other ideas too but Tinker is making sure to keep an eye on things! Good cat!

By the way, Ron is busy making some new items that are very exciting... stay tuned!!

"HOT" Tango Diorama

2010-05-26T18:18:00.001-07:00

Oh, when I use to dance there just wasn't anything sexier then the tango. It was the second idea of images I wanted after the "Ode to Garbo". I had no idea I was going to find so many wonderful ones. I took them through the same process I did with Garbo, creating that hand-painted look. These will also be getting new wooden frames. And, of course, I had to see which I liked better, the couch or the table in front. Still couldn't make up my mind. Love it both ways.

I think Erica and Tinker are very happy with the new look too. Tinker just liked all the attention.

Let me know what you think, which do you like more?

Are you a Gretta Garbo fan? Or does the Tango light your fire? Maybe a little of both... hmmmm... Gretta does seem to fit right in with the drama of the dance.

New Garbo Diorama

2010-05-26T17:53:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I had to make some new pictures for the wall. The first ones were so lovely and I did get permission from the owner before using them but she didn't understand that I was going to use them in my diorama and take pictures to share with my friends. So sadly I will delete them after this posting. That's okay, they were special to her so I respect that. It gave me an opportunity to create something completely different. So here are a couple of set ups. The first one is dedicated to the great Gretta Garbo, one of my favorites of the old Hollywood era. What a unique beauty.

I wanted to see what the arrangement would look like with the couch and then with the wall table, to see which I liked better. I couldn't decide because I loved them both.

The "art" was created by using filters in my picture program to make them look like they were hand painted. For now they have computer frames but I am in the process of making real wooden frames them that should really make a huge difference.

I thought Gretta made a wonderful wall display, but wait! There's more to come!!

Twisted Mittens

2010-05-18T15:23:00.000-07:00

Just a few days ago I was taking pictures of my dolls in the warm sunshine enjoying a lovely picnic. I was in a tank top and sweating... Today, I have long underwear on and a jacket!!! It is raining and cold. Ugh. But it does give me a good opportunity to share something I finished the other day.
Yes, I've gone from socks to mittens!!

This is my first pair so I learned what to do and what not to do again! Still they turned out pretty good. They have a real space for the thumb too. This pair of mittens is part of the "twisted rib" pattern designed set that also includes this terrific tam (hat), and 12 inch scarf plus fringe.

It looks fabulous with the knitted coat my mum-in-law made.

I plan to have several of these made up to offer on my dollyknickers website, in different colors and patterns.

Also, I made socks for the tippy toe Barbies. They make great lounge socks/slippers. These will also be available in different colors and patterns.

Hope you like these. Hopefully this will be the last cold weather items you will see until fall. You never know... it's raining again.

Picnic Extras

2010-05-18T15:08:00.000-07:00

What's a picnic without hamburgers and hotdogs? I had trouble finding food items in scale with my dolls that looked real so I made my own using polymer clay! It was so fun and I thought they turned out pretty real looking. I then made some french fries and plates and cups and the potato chip bags. There isn't real chips inside, just fluff!

I am offering a set of these with the sale of a picnic table as a bonus free gift. I'm working on some other food items too but this is it for now.

Oh I can't wait until it gets nice enough outside to BBQ!!!

Lovely Day at the Park

2010-05-09T11:47:00.001-07:00

Here we are back at the park, but this time what a lovely day it is. All the choice spots have been taken and everyone is enjoying the sunshine while it last. Niki and Silvia brought the kids to play. Silvia said to Niki, "this is the best place to come when we babysit. The kids have so much fun." Niki agreed. Little Kelly wasn't too sure about Trish and Toni, though, being new to the group. Silva tried to encourage her to jump right in and play. "Look at that awesome ball they have! Doesn't it look like fun?" I don't think she was too convinced.

There's our sweethearts, Grayson and BethLynn. This time BethLynn kept her wrap with her. "It's so much nicer today but it is still a little cool." said BethLynn. Grayson took advantage of the moment and pulled her up close to him, "Cuddle next to me, I'll keep you warm." BethLynn giggled and gave his thigh a squeeze.

Winston and Tod also decided to enjoy the day by having lunch in the park. "Man! These are some awesome burgers, Tod. Where did you get them?" "Oh, right next to the market is a little place called 'Dollyknicker's Cafe'. I couldn't make up my mind to get the hot dogs or the burgers, so I just got both." Tod answered. "I can see why. This is great!" Winston said with a mouthful of burger.

Picnic tables by Mr. Ric Eddy, available on my website: http://dollyknickers.org

Accessories and food items by me will also be on my dollyknickers website.

Picnic Time

2010-05-07T18:15:00.003-07:00

I know, it seems like Summer is never going to arrive! Dark clouds keeping bringing the rain and blocking the sunshine. When the sun does break through, it gets nice and toasty but about the time you take your sweater off you have to put it right back on again!!
That's what's happening to my little friends here. They stopped to have a little picnic in a beautiful setting when they saw these terrific picnic tables. Grayson kept his sweater on but poor Beth Lynn took hers off and regretted it!

"The sun was just shining two minutes ago!!" Beth Lynn said in a very annoyed voice. "Do you want me to get your sweater? You look cold." Grayson offered. "No," she answered, " let's just eat, I'm starved. We better hurry because it looks like rain." Grayson tried to lift the tension, "We will have to remember this place and maybe get the gang together for a nice BBQ." That seemed to brighten Beth Lynn up and she smiled and nodded in agreement, then took a big bite of her kabob.

Grayson said, " Haggus would love it out here too. We will have to bring the ol' boy." Beth Lynn agreed. "He would be good to have around anyway just in case there are wild cats lurking... that is if he doesn't get scared like that one time with Jill... silly dog." ♥

Picnic tables were created by my very talented friend, Ric. They are made to look like the real ones that you find at roadside parks, weathered and worn with an occasional carving or two. Ric painted them in a rustic barn red and a nice gray and then created the distressed look. In perfect scale for the 11.5 and 12 inch dolls.

These will be available in my Etsy store next week. They will sell for $50 plus shipping. I'm working on the extras that will be included with the sale. A real surprise package of fun.

Ric is busy creating more outdoor furnishings that will knock your socks off. Summer will arrive someday so plan to be ready!

Gorgeous Couch

2010-05-04T11:27:00.001-07:00

I just finished making the cushions and accessories for this beautiful black walnut and birch sofa/couch. Ron did a wonderful job of making it to scale with Barbie. I covered the cushions with a deep rich dark brown leather-like fabric and the covers are made so that they can be removed and have different covers for a whole new look. I will have extra covers available, sold separate for around $35-$40.

I only wish I had the tables here to show the whole set together. This is definitely on my wish list!!
The price tag for the couch alone is $120.00. I will have a limited supply on my website soon.

The bolster pillows are completely handmade with the leather-like patched ends and are made to match the afghan throw that my model seems to be taking advantage of. She must not have had enough sleep last night! But doesn't she look cozy?

The afghan and pillows are sold as a set for $25. I will have a variety of accessories available soon to choose from.

More to come ....

Aran Sweater for Ken

2010-05-01T14:19:00.001-07:00

Well, this was some challenge! Took awhile to do but mostly because I undo it a few times and re-knit to work out the technique and pattern. All in all, I'm very happy how it turned out. This yarn is an acrylic/wool blend in a "manly" yellow.

As you can see, it is an all-over design and carries down the arms too. The ribbing and the shawl collar is a little different as it is done using a twist rib which makes it looks like tiny cables.

This is also a drop shoulder design. The shawl collar can be worn standing up as well as folded over, which creates a very different look.

I think my guy looks pretty darn sexy, don't you think so? I can't wait to get started on the next one.

This technique is going to be very versatile as I can manipulate the stitches into many patterns to simulate the Aran look. You have to think about the difference in the amount of stitches used. An Aran sweater, or any cable sweater, for an average adult is done over around 120 stitches or more. I'm recreating this on just 30 stitches.

I will be selling finished sweaters on my web site as I get them finished but I'm more then happy to take special orders.

Here's some more Insanity

2010-04-23T17:55:00.000-07:00

I just thought I'd share some of the little things I did while my knee was healing. I decided to make some more of the insane little socks for Ken and Barbie, complete with turned heal and gusset. Needle size #000 double point. They fit perfectly.

I made a few different lengths. These knee-high slouch socks took a very long time to do, mostly because the yarn was almost thread like. If I make them again I will adjust the number of stitches to create a more contoured look. These look better to me scrunched down.

Here's the gang modeling the different pairs. I think I will knit up a few more and then present them on my website to sell.

I'll have to work on some mittens to go with the hats and scarves. I know, insane, huh?

Shawl Sweater with Pockets!

2010-04-23T17:35:00.001-07:00

Just a follow up on the sweater. My client agreed that it looked like something was missing without the pockets and ask if I could add them. Yay!! Doesn't it look much better?

Shawl Collar Sweater

2010-04-22T16:32:00.000-07:00

Well this is what I've been working on. (In case you don't know, you can click on any of the pictures to enlarge). I was introduce to a new customer that has some definite ideas in mind as to what he wants for his collection. This is my first shawl collar on a doll sweater. I sent him pictures and I'm waiting to hear back if he likes it or not. I think it needs pockets but he hasn't made up his mind yet if he wants them. I like it so I won't mind if he says "pass".
It is made with a cotton yarn in a beautiful heather gray and black buttons.

My guy likes it! I just needed him to pose on the deck but he got frisky and decide make his poses look a bit more adventurous and started for the rocks! I was so afraid he was going to damage the sweater but he was careful and he was right about the picture. It did liven things up some.

You should have seen him trying to get down!!! LOL!

Incredible 1:6 Furniture

2010-04-11T10:36:00.000-07:00

Is this amazing or what???

This is the #1 set and will not be available for sale as Ron will keep this. But don't worry, he is busy making more, and will have many different exotic woods to offer. This is fine craftsmanship with "old time" quality. You know, when woodworkers and furniture makers really cared. The kind that becomes heirlooms passed down generation to generation. Not the factory, mass produced garbage that is out there now. This is going to be a treasure for doll collectors.

This is made by a true master of the art. Perfect miniatures of Ron's signature table he designed years ago. This is made from a black walnut burl, which is very rare and expensive to get, and why this set is not for sale. Ron used techniques such as "bookmarking" the grain for the tops of the tables and then he "waterfalled" the pattern over the sides and back. A lot of time and care goes into creating this look. The legs are a special design using a unique curve and made with black walnut and birch.

As you can see, all the drawers are fully functioning and have beautiful silver pull nobs and back plates. But wait! There's more!

This is the first design Ron came up with for the couch but he has refined this to an even better one. I upholstered this for him, in fact, it was while covering the cushions I had my little accident with the scissors! The gold fabric in the front is now replaced with birch and looks so much nicer. But this still shows how well this fits the dolls. It isn't flimsy by any means.

The whole set will included what you see here, with the four tables and a couch. But save your pennies, because the price tag is around $800.00. Really, that is a reasonable price and well below what he could charge for the quality. Take a look out there of what is available and you will soon discover there is a huge drought for well made furniture in this scale. I have found a few with some nice things to offer and they have huge prices and yet no where near what you see hear. I wish you could reach in and pick this up to feel how stout and sturdy this is. You don't feel like you have to be super careful for fear it might break.

There will be more to come and I will let you know as soon as it is available for sale. If you want to get in line early let me know, make comments please, and I'll add you to the list. Ron plans to make 52 set in the next year and that might be all ever made. He has other designs that will be ready soon.

Freak Accident!!

2010-04-11T10:06:00.000-07:00

Okay, I know this might be a bit gross to some of you but I waited a day or two before I took these so it wouldn't look too bad. What did I do? I found out the hard way that when you drop your scissors, you should just let them fall and not try to catch them with your knees! Ouch, for sure!! On the right you can see where the 2 inch blades went in and the little dot on the left is where they almost came out again! It went deep but thank goodness it didn't angle straight in. I was off my feet for a couple days and then it was only the stairs that gave me the most problem. The whole top of my knee is numb, a really creepy feeling. Try this: have a friend put their index finger on top of yours and with your other hand rub across the two fingers with your index finger on top touching your friend's finger and your thumb on the bottom touching your finger. You will get the same sensation my knee feels. Kind of dead and alive at the same time. Cool party trick.
It is healing fine so no worries, but this is why I have been slow at entering new blogs. I have so much to share too. Next, will be pictures of the furniture set made by my friend Ron. Prepare to be amazed!

Ocean Breeze Negligee

2010-04-04T09:52:00.000-07:00

My newest in the lingerie department. A lovely long gown and dressing coat made with a soft white tricot and blue stretch lace. She has a pair of bikini panties too, made with tricot and stretch lace. Very feminine and sweet

Winter decide it was through with us yet so I took these shots in between the down pours of rain. I was so cold! It looks like it was almost dark but this was taking about 1 o'clock in the afternoon! Someday, Spring will act like Spring.

She is lovely. A favorite for posing.

My first Make-overs

2010-04-04T09:12:00.000-07:00

I have been so intrigued by the makeovers and re-paints of dolls by my friends on flickr that it inspired me to give it a try. Not easy at all! I was so excited to find these two lovely vintage dolls that were, for the most part, in good shape except their make-up had been rubbed almost off. Of course I don't start with a regular Barbie, I jump right in with a vintage doll! I figured if I messed them up too bad I'd just send them to one of my friends to fix. See, I always try to have a back up plan, especially when I don't really know what I'm doing. I figured that I have been putting make-up on this face of mine long enough to get the concept, but it is a whole other world when adding paint to a doll!

My first little pretty was a beautiful and rare redhead bubblecut Barbie. As you can see in the first picture, she had become a real plain jane with her make-up near gone and her hair had changed directions and made it look like she had a bald spot. I washed her up and re-directed her hair to swirl around her head the way the bubblecut was suppose to do and it moved in place perfectly. Then the make-up... her brows had turned green so I mixed colors to create as close to the hair color as I could, and after a couple of "wipe-off and try again" attempts I decided I liked her expression. She looked to me like she was saying, "Oh, really?" in that sort of snobbish, look down your nose way. The eyes just needed a touch of black liner and then a gloss to the eyeball. Her lips were the most fun and challenging. I added just a drop of red to the color mix I had for her brows and got this for her lips. I thought it looked great so I did her nails and toes with it too then added the shiney gloss and she transformed.

My next Barbie wasn't as complicated. She just needed the black eye liner and new lips and nails. My favorite was doing the lips. Now on to designing the perfect outfits. So, How do you think I did? I can only improve from here, right?

Mommy-to-be ???

2010-03-31T14:53:00.000-07:00

Okay, I was thrilled with the Happy Family line by Mattel with Barbie's friend Midge and her high school sweetheart husband, Alan, having a baby. I personally think it is a natural and beautiful way to show the normal path of life. Midge is a beautiful Mom-to be. I didn't know that there was another doll sold, #1 in Denmark, back in 1991, simply called The Mother-to-be Doll created by the Judith Corp. I looked it up on the web and found it made the headlines in The New York Times when it started to show up in the stores there in 1992. The mother-to-be is Judy and she was followed by the father-to-be, Charlie. I found these on Craig's List then bought them from a lovely lady named Colleen that bought them originally for a gag gift for a baby shower but her daughter did not like the idea so she put them in a drawer and there they stayed until she decided to clear out a few things. Lucky me!

Their quality and construction is more five and dime, not nearly as good as the Mattel dolls. Judy's arms are very rubbery and Judy looks to be terrified to me, poor thing, with her bright blue eyes staring widely. I don't know if she has that look because of the sized of that babies head or that Charlie looks more like he could be her father instead of her husband or maybe Mr. Rogers... hmmmm... But that's another story...

I thought it was interesting to compare the two dolls side by side. Both are unique and rare.

I look forward to dressing them both in new things made just for a mother-to-be...

Just Chillin' With the Dog

2010-03-23T16:32:00.000-07:00

Well, it turned out to be a pretty nice day so a couple of the boys, Ned and Graysten, wanted to take the dog out and do a little exploring. I made them wear the sweaters I worked on while I was sick. After all, I sure didn't want them to catch cold!!

We were having a wonderful time. Hagus, the dog, was very well behaved and seemed to really like all the attention he was getting. Sometimes he seemed to act like there was something out there, watching us... hmmmm... made us a little nervous so we move closer to the house and found a lovely mossy area for some more photos. But Hagus seemed to become more and more concerned acting...

Then Jill showed up in her newest bikini. I thought it was a bit cold to be parading around in it but it seemed to perk the guys right up!

I wanted to get some shots of her before she got to cold, so we took a couple here by the house, and then she wanted to climb up in the rocks when the guys told her they were getting their pictures taken up there! Crazy girl! Before we could say that there might be something lurking up there she was already posed for her first photo! Hagus was really keeping an eye out....

He sure didn't like the smell in the air and he started to growl!!

And THEN!!!!

THE CAT!!!!

Before poor Jill could move an inch the beast was on her! Even Hagus was to scared to move...stupid dog.

But all is well... it was just Harley. She gave Hagus a kiss and moved on when she saw I was taking her picture. She is a bit camera shy.

So the day turned out lovely...♥

Turn of the Century Swimwear for Ken

2010-03-20T17:00:00.000-07:00

Well, this was an interesting challenge. I was asked if I could make a turn of the century swimsuit for Ken and after investigating many very unattractive photos of men in their "modest" swimming attire, I came accross this design and thought it was the best of the worst. It has a real working button front and is made with a stretch cotton/lycra fabric. Most of the turn-of-the-century suits were made of wool but I didn't have any so this was the next best thing. The photo shows the man also wore heavy leg warmer type socks. I know, what were they thinking?

I have another design I'm putting together that might be a little better but for now this is all I came up with. I made the sandals too. So what do you think?

The wonderful life of my Grandson...

2010-03-15T16:21:00.000-07:00

This is my very active 7-year-old grandson, Isaac. He's the tallest in the class and really pays close attention to his teacher, Sen pi Lance.

Isaac is on the left.

He is taking a short break from karate and enjoying swimming classes as well as music, science, world traveler and chimes, all part of a wonderful program put together through the Vancouver school district for home-schooling kids. It is sort of a co-op with parents and family members and teachers. They provide classes to help round out the education of the children as well as give them the socialization they need. They also give the encouragement needed to the parents as they work hard at home to continue the education.

Here is Ms. Phoebe helping Isaac learn to float on his back. The kids have such a good time and are learning something important that could save their life someday. Isaac says he gets nervous before swimming but the moment he is changed into his swim trunks he is out the door and in the water in a flash!! I got to go be his guest last Wednesday and I sat through the music class and had lunch and then the swimming class. It was wonderful. I wish they would have had something like this when my girls were little.
More and more schools are losing touch with the children. It is programs and wonderful teachers like this that make teaching and learning a joy again, and getting parents involved in this education helps keep the family close. When you know what your child is doing and involved in there less of a chance there will be problems that can't be handled. This has my support 100%.

And it Begins...

2010-03-15T12:50:00.000-07:00

Well, here we have the first mowing of the year. I thought it was too wet but Mike couldn't wait to "play" on his new toy. I wish I would have caught him doing cookies in the driveway...oh well, I'm sure it won't be the last time.

The sad part is, just after this little segment was shot, he just got around the corner behind the big rocks and it threw a cotter pin that engaged the right wheel and so the left wheel was pulling the right wheel and it tore up the lawn a bit. Our first mowing and our lawn broke our mower!!

It is still on warranty so they will have to fix it. But what a bother.

I'm Back from the Dead!!!

2010-03-13T10:28:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone that has checked and wonder where the heck I have been!! I never intended to let so much time go by and not add something on this blog but I had a little trouble getting much accomplished these past couple of weeks.... Let's just say a nasty cold really wiped me out!

But now I'm back and I have some exciting things to share with you....

First, the weather is not improving much around the dollhouse but it seems there is a lot of "green" growth around, unfortunately it is moss! I think we actually live in a rain forest of sorts! It will be interesting to see what the next few months bring...

Second, I want to introduce some fantastic furniture made by my friend, Ron, who has been a wood crafter and cabinet maker for over 60 years so he is kind of good at it! lol. He makes beautiful and unique tables with different exotic woods. I asked him one day if he ever thought of making furniture for dolls like Barbie and that just got the ball rolling. He made a miniature of his signature side table and Oh my! Check this out!!!

Of course the pictures can not truly show how amazing and beautiful this piece is. It is made from a walnut burl and hand rubbed with oil to bring out the natural color of the wood and the top is designed to "waterfall" over the sides, which means that the wood pattern is carried over the edge. The legs are inlaid and curved. The drawer really works too. All that is missing is the pull knob but that is being worked on. Right now he is putting together a set that includes 2 side tables, 1 coffee table and 1 back of the couch table and when he is done I will be offering it on my website for sale. This is exquisite and not something to be purchased for a child's play, although, it is much more durable then the plastic junk that is available on the market. I would say this is more to the collectors taste to display proudly.

I'll be taking more pictures to show off the set here on my blog and I hope to have more furniture offers in the near future.

Please leave comments on what you think of this piece and the idea of having fine wood furniture for dolls like Barbie. Thanks!!

New Look for Snow

2010-02-20T14:20:00.000-08:00

I think she was due for a new look, don't you? Sweet and simple.

Red Speedo

2010-02-09T17:32:00.001-08:00

Well, here's the days efforts! Not bad but not the best either. I like the size of the elastic cord but but it ravels out when stretched so I will redesign the waist with a mock tie instead. I'll get it soon!!

My stripes are a little crooked too. Oops!

More PJ Fun

2010-02-05T15:45:00.000-08:00

Hubby got me a new camera and I was playing with the features on it. It has filters so I took a couple shots to see what it looked like and I thought these turned out so pretty.

So this is the feet pajamas again with a few adjustments. Still with a zipper front and pleated heel. I added a tab on the top just for the heck of it and it closes with a snap. So cute!

New and Improved Speedo!

2010-02-05T15:18:00.000-08:00

Much better... Don't mind the string, I leave it long so the buyer can tie it and cut it off where they want... I'm still going to experiment with elastic cord as I think it will make it easier to tie and still look good. Might even be a bit more to scale.

I think this was by far the biggest challenge I have had. I tell you this is not an easy body to fit. But with the right placement of the dart and a little padding,,, hey, hey, hey!!! Not bad for a 12 inch doll!

Now to make it in red and in black and and and....

Sweet Spring

2010-02-03T07:15:00.000-08:00

This is the latest lingerie set I call "Sweet Spring". A three piece ensemble with tube style bra, sexy ruffled "rumba" panties and a short sheer top with shoulder straps. All is made with a sheer tricot and lace.

The other two lingerie outfits are on their way to Australia! Yup, both sold to a customer that bought bikinis from me Last year. She ask me to make her some interesting items for her daughter who is a collector. She wants Speedos for Ken and ruffle panties (knickers) for Barbie. I sent her the pictures of the last two sets to show her what was available and, well she wanted them too! I made the above outfit after her request and I have to say I really like this design and I will use this again in various ways. Lots of possibilities.

I'm working on the Speedo design which is a lot harder then you would think when the poor doll has no caboose! I mean he is flat, flat, flat! No "junk in the trunk", no bumps for sexy speedos to

mold around to make them interesting, if you know what I mean, (nudge nudge, wink, wink! I even added a little padding to give a little help ... as you can see, very little! ) I sent her the second pair I made but I am working hard to improve the design so it doesn't just look like Ken is wearing Barbie's panties! Research is fun...I get to watch lots of Bay Watch videos! hehehe!

Snuggles!

2010-01-28T16:27:00.000-08:00

Okay... this isn't perfected yet but I couldn't wait to show it to you because the tester turn out so cute!

The fit is right on and works with all the body types and both the tippy toe dolls and the flat footed ones. My model is a flat-footed doll.

The front opens with a zipper making the dressing of the doll easy. Elastic in the back creates more shape and the pleat on the heel gives the foot a perfect pocket. I am happy with this for the most part but I will improve the ribbed collar and maybe add a placket. I'm going to have some fun with this one!

Purple Passion

2010-01-27T10:20:00.001-08:00

It amazes me how clever knitting is. As long as you stay consistent, the neatest patterns develope. This is made with bamboo yarn and, oh my goodness, it is exquisitely soft. I wish I had enough to make a sweater for me!! Some day maybe.

My model is wearing a pair of gray skinny pants that work well with the royal purple sweater, and is perfect for the crisp foggy morning.

I wanted to created an open pattern to play up the feminine qualities even though it is over-sized and not form fitted. Extra long cuffs give the sleeve fullness and the scoop neckline has a crochet edge.

I've started another with the same yarn. It will be done soon...

Red Hot and Romantic

2010-01-27T10:05:00.001-08:00

This one is very detailed. The camisole top has a built in bra that keeps the top in place. The straps are true spaghetti straps, turn with a darning needle ( boy! that was hard but so worth it ), Under the half slip is a perfect pair of bikini panties.

She is a sexy seductress. My model was a bit nervous of the edge and had some trouble posing for the last few shots. She was upset that I took these but the angle showed off a few important things.... come on! Get your mind out of the gutter! I'm talking about the ease of fit and the hugging quality of the built in bra. What were you thinking?

More to come but first let me show off my latest sweater...

Lingerie!!

2010-01-27T09:48:00.001-08:00

This is a hot little number. Red and white lacy bra and panties with a sheer jacket cover, what Ken wouldn't go wild over this one.

My little model was so brave to face the cold foggy morning. A real trouper she is. I asked her to be a bit creative and while she was working out something I snap a couple of awkward positions, but in the end, (no pun intended), the shots aided in showing off the perfect fit of the bikini.

But wait... there's more......

New Arrival!

2010-01-19T17:31:00.000-08:00

I have to show off my newest family member. She came all the way from Australia, sent to me by a dear friend, Courtney. This is a Pullip Doll. I can honestly say I never heard of them before a couple months ago. They are very collectible and have a huge fan base. Courtney wanted one for a long time and it wasn't long ago she received this one. So how did I get her? Well...

Courtney found me through Etsy when she ordered a Barbie wardrobe closet for her new Pullip doll. I customized it for her and she was very happy. We became fast friends. She also wanted me to make clothes for her new doll but we found that hard because the size is quite different from the dolls I'm use to designing for. She did send me measurements, to the best of her ability but before I could start anything, she bought her first Barbie! Bella from the Twilight movie and fell in love. Then she bought Edward and decided to send me her beautiful Pullip doll. I think we made a good trade as I will make her a couple of outfits for her newest dolls and customize another wardrobe. It's a win win for us both. Now I can design a line of cloths, "Dollyknickers" style, for this interesting and beautiful doll.

Thank you so much Courtney!

Second Color

2010-01-16T09:33:00.001-08:00

Okay, here 's the latest. Second color begins. Dori and I worked on the cutting in and James followed with the roller. He's taller and doesn't need a ladder. The secoand coat was left to the two of them to do and Isaac and I played games.

Isaac took the picture of the door because he thought it looked nice and I have to aggree. The two colors are warm and comfortable together. The last picture is Isaac, my grandson, posing with the finished wall. Next week will be the ceiling and the little bathroom in the next lightest color.

Insane Project

2010-01-14T05:03:00.001-08:00

I know...and you're right, I am a little nutty. Really, this is all a result of getting new needles. I found a set in the smallest sizes they make, (#1, #0, #00 and #000 double-pointed, 5 of each), usually used for lace making. I've been looking for a set because of the perfect gauge they make in scale with the dolls. One thing lead to another as I was practicing and well, here you see the results. They have a real turned heel and gusset just like the big boys. I don't know if they can be worn with shoes yet, probably not many of the plastic ones made but I think some of the boots that are very loose would work well. I will probably make more pairs just for the novelty of them, maybe with smaller yarn!

It's a start!

2010-01-13T14:26:00.001-08:00

Here are the before and after shots of the wall behind the bed in the Master Bedroom. I wanted a rich dark chocolate brown, and other then having the word "Hershey" written across it, this is as chocolate as you can get! It looks velvety and has such depth. Yummy.

Sorry about the spots, they are not on the wall. My camera is acting funny. Anyway, we took the color around the corner and around the door and that was a good decision as it seemed to frame the area nicely. When the other walls get painted it will be very warm and romantic. A new quilt is in the plan too.

My daughter, Dori, was an immense help. She did all the rolling, two coats, and I did the cut-in work. I think we made a pretty good team. I have to mention that Dori's husband, James, helped too. ♥ My kitties seem to like it. I'll update the progress as she goes. Our plan is to tackle the adjacent walls on Friday. Stay tuned!

Sucessful Cargo

2010-01-08T05:04:00.000-08:00

I only had to trash about 5 trial pairs but I think I got it this time! YEAH! I swear this doll has no butt! I added a little bit of elastic to the back waist band in hopes to give more of an illusion of a tushy but I think I better start thinking padded undies. LOL

All in all, this turned out to be a decent pair. I added the pockets on the leg for a more cargo style, added the waist pockets and omitted the back pockets all together. In my opinion, the back pockets just drew more attention to the none existent booty.

The pictures above are the back and side view, (notice the "no butt" problem). I think the wider leg is a much better look as it gives more balance overall.

The crotch, (pardon me), is well fitted. That is the biggest beef I have had with commercial patterns as they do not make a well fitted pair of pants for the Ken type dolls. The waist is always so high and the crotch so low it never looked good. Anyway, this is a start.

Ken's New Cords

2010-01-06T16:15:00.000-08:00

Okay, here we have a first attempt at fitting the Ken dolls' body with a decent pair of pants. There a two different styles here, skinny leg and a wider leg. Both do not have all the bells and whistles yet like pockets and belt loops, I'm just going for the fit at this time. The skinny legged pair has darts to help fit the shape of that doll, which has a total different shape then the other one. The wide legged pair has no darts at all. I can't decide which I like better.

They both look good on the respected doll, but you can not exchange as the dolls are so different in shape. I think I will try to rectify this by designing an elastic back waist so there is a better chance of the pants fitting a variety of bodies. Then on to adding the pockets and loops. It sure would be easier if the doll had a butt!

The fabric is the tinest baby cord I have ever seen, perfect for scale with the dolls.

Our Walk About 2010

2010-01-04T07:59:00.001-08:00

Well. it might have been a dreary sort of day but it wasn't raining and it wasn't too cold so Mike and I ventured out to investigate some of our property and the area around us. The picture of the house is taken from the easement road that we share with the neighbors. Doesn't our house look eerie through the moss-ridden trees and in the foggy haze that surrounds it? Spooky! The next picture is of the split-rail fence being put in by my wonderful daughter and her husband. They are doing a fantastic job! The weather makes it slow going and they have about half of it finished but we are in no hurry. The ferns are all natural and absolutely everywhere. So beautiful. I'm worried about the trees as they are very old and as you can see, some are falling down. We hope to plant many more to start replacing the old ones and to help fill in the gaps a bit more.

The Lewis River is running fast right now, the water is high with all the rain and snow melt. There are a steady stream of fishermen that cast right off the bank. Many bring boats and canoes and kayaks. We don't mind the people but then when we see the garbage they leave behind, we get angry that they have such little respect for the beauty or for our property. It doesn't take much to leave a place better then how you found it. We all appreciate a clean place to walk and play. No one should do this to the earth.

All in all we had a lovely walk and worked up an appetite so home again, home again, jiggety-jig!

2009 Gone with a Bang!

2010-01-01T06:23:00.000-08:00

Well... our first snow here at the Dollhouse. This happened a few days ago and sadly all this beautiful white stuff is gone. It was lovely while it lasted.

Hard to believe another year has passed. It always makes me sad. I try to remember what I did with the time. Time is so precious and so much of it is wasted. I think a lot was achieved in 2009 for us, including our move. I do hope, though, that 2010 is a productive year and good things are accomplished. A new year, a new beginning, a new plan. My goal is to stay focused and make the best of the new year. I hope good things for all my family and friends. My your dreams come true. ♥♥♥

Spring IS Coming!!

2009-12-27T10:08:00.000-08:00

This was a surprise outfit as I had no idea what I was trying to make until it was made! If that makes any sense at all! I was just trying out some new needles and yarn and it just grew into this sweet little skirt and top. The skirt has a ribbed waist that I added last to make it slip on easy and hug the waist . The top has straps that cris-cross in back and button in the front. The buttons are crystal and I added a baby blue ribbon threaded through the knit-in eyelets on the skirt and then tied the ends in a bow. The doll has flat feet so it gave me an opportunity to make her a pair of sandals with crystals that match her buttons. She really should be wearing long-johns as it was very cold out and I was shivering taking these pictures. But Spring is just around the corner! Right?

New Sweaters for Ken and Friends

2009-12-22T19:23:00.000-08:00

I always have a lot of fun making these. I love the look of Ken in a sweater and beanie caps are just a little extra fun.

Got to make this short and sweet but I plan to have more time tomorrow and will add some more pictures. Thanks so much for checking back and looking to see what's new on my blog. Things are starting to settle more and more from the move and I'm starting to feel the inspiration.

Sassy!

2009-12-21T18:21:00.000-08:00

Well, here are the
leg-warmers that I thought this outfit needed. I saw this yarn and thought wow! it looked like so much fun and I think I was right. These again, of course, are knit in the round with 4 needles so there are no bulky seams. They stretch easily over the leggings and fit firmly. I think the guys are impressed. They are busy showing off their new sweaters and beanie caps.

I would have had these on here sooner but hubby got sick with pneumonia and has been home for over a week and today was the first day I spent enough time in the sewing room to get something done. I have been working on pants for Ken. He is just hard to fit but I'm getting there. The sample pair seemed to turn out nice. I'll get some more pictures up tomorrow. Hubby is calling... Good night!

Flirty in Pink

2009-12-05T10:50:00.000-08:00

This was just fun. I have this incredible hot pink fabric that I just love but didn't know what I was going to do with it until I found this pink haired doll.

I'm not really fond of the colored streaks of pinks and purples and even bright yellows but I might re-think my stand after creating this look.

My standard fitted skinny pants (leggings) and a simple tube top that I added lacy button-on straps too, make this flirty fun.

Her headband just topped it all off with it's "button-on" flower.

Her hair is arranged in a fishbone braid.

New Design - The Knitted Shawl

2009-12-05T10:12:00.000-08:00

I have wanted to make a shawl for awhile now but never seemed to have the right pattern clear in my mind. Crocheting one always came out too stiff but I still wanted the lacy look. So, I sat down with a pen and paper and worked out the lovely design. Made with a fine fingering yarn in a soft white with very tiny needles. The lacy designs is created with a series of YO and K2Tog. If you are a knitter, you know what that means.

Adding the fringe was time-consuming but so worth the effort I think. I left it longer because I liked the grace it lends to the look.

There is a little silver butterfly bead on the point, I thought gave it a touch of class. Around the neck the edge naturally rolls softly into a collar and hugs the shoulders. Over all, this is a beautiful feminine article to add to any wardrobe, and can be worn with many outfits.

Frosty Morning

2009-12-05T09:11:00.000-08:00

This is our poor little fountain in the courtyard, all frozen!! The little birdies can ice skate now!

Frost in the rocks and trees is really very pretty. No wind, just still and quite except for the sound of the river.

Harley looks like a bunny rabbit going down these stairs, well, any stairs for that matter! She is so cute. I'll have to video her one of these times and post it so you can get a giggle.

So, this is our home at the start of the winter. I can't wait for the first snow to fall. I hope to be "snowed in". I know, you think that is crazy, but it might be the only way to have time with my husband!

Production Time!!

2009-12-05T08:47:00.000-08:00

Do I know how to fill a space or what????!!!! It has been a long haul since moving to get it to this point. Well, it seems like forever to me. If you have been checking my blog to see what's new, I'm sorry it has taken awhile to post new pictures and updates. Believe me, it has not been without reasons. You know, just stuff that life throws at you when you aren't ready. We all would like to have things go smoothly with no unexpected bumps to throw us off track, wouldn't you agree? But, come on... when has that EVER happened??
The point I want to get to is that I am now again back in the swing of things... it just might not seem like it because I have so much catching up to do. But here at least are a few of the latest photos of my now fully functional sewing studio. I found all my cords and nobs and frames to run all my machines!! YEAH! Including the quilter. I have a lot of catching up to do there!!
Oh my.

It only looks like a mess to the uncreative eye! It's heaven to me. I took these this very frosty morning... I'll be posting another blog on the frost as well as a couple new designs I hope you will enjoy.

Drum Roll Please!

2009-11-20T16:09:00.000-08:00

Well...I re-opened my Etsy shop this morning but I have yet had any time to sew a thing. It is taking shape though and looking more and more like a workable studio. The boxes are just a small percentage of what we had but it gives you an idea. Below is showing the cutting table with some of my beauties waiting their turn to be pampered. They were glad to get out of the crates and breath!!

This is my "DollyWall" looking rather full. Below it are more candidates for make-overs. Can't you hear them saying "Pick Me!! Pick Me!!"

Tah-Dah!!! My space is looking good! I now can move around and find things! Much more tidy.

It might still look like a mess to some, but it is my inspiration, my creative chaos. Now, I'll have to see what I can do with it!

Stay tuned!! ☺

My Buddy!

2009-11-20T07:28:00.000-08:00

It is so funny the things you find when you move. This is Harley when she was only about 4 months old. I got her from a lady that use to cut my hair. She didn't know what to do with her because the mama kitty had died and left only this one kitten when she was 3 weeks old. I took her and nurse her with a bottle and she flourished! Actually she became a holy terror! But as you can see we bonded big time. This was not a set up pose. Every time I would do dishes she would climb up my body like a tree and flop on my shoulder just like you see here! When she got a bit too big and heavy for me to handle her climbing up, I would have to pick her up and let her be on my shoulder "before" starting dishes because if I didn't I got a very painful surprise! Harley will be 14 years old in Dec. She still is my best buddy but doesn't do much of the shoulder lounging anymore. Now she waits until bedtime and sleeps under the covers cradled in my arm. Animals are so endearing.

Big Day of Projects!

2009-11-11T06:48:00.001-08:00

Yesterday was productive, I think. It wasn't raining like the day before so it made it easier to get things going.

Dori was busy painting the guest bedroom a beautiful shade of gray-green. It will need another coat and she will do that today.

The truck arrived with the split-rail fence materials and James and Isaac got right to work unloading. Just look at my grandson work!! He just got right in there and started carrying the 10 foot rails! Pretty good for 6 years old! Hope he is still as industrious in ten years! LOL

They also added the reflectors to the monster mailbox. James also fixed my cubboard door to swing the right direction and he took a limb off a tree that was hanging in a bad spot over the driveway and he and Isaac set some of the post for the fence. It was a good day! It's good to have kids!!

Progress...I think???

2009-11-07T17:28:00.000-08:00

Thank goodness for strong men. Here is my wonderful husband and brother filling the truck with mostly stuff for the sewing studio! Except the oak library table which we will use once again for our kitchen table. I has a special history and it will be nice to use it again.

Below is a picture of the space all my sewing was in! Remember the dolls on the wall? The boxes are my daughter's as she and her family move in. It will be a great home for them.

Then the real challenge begins. Where to put all this stuff!!! It is overwhelming at times as I had lots of help to bring it in but I'm on my own to organize it...

What a mess! but it is coming together even after a few set-backs. My mom came to visit, which was great, and then I got a bug of some sort that made me feel rotten. Now my shoulder is really being a problem...Arrgh!! I just want to sew!!!

Things will start to look better in the next week. One box at a time...right?

Now if I can just find my cords to the machines!!!

At least my dolls are finding their places!!

Where did time fly??

2009-10-23T04:42:00.000-07:00

One thing about moving, you sure can lose track of time! Whew! I can't remember what day it is! Well, things are finding there place around here. It will take a few weeks to really get settled and get through all the boxes. I'm not as young as I use to be so it is taking a little bit longer. I do have pictures but we don't have our computers up and going yet so all I have to use is our laptop, which for the most part is doing a really good job! I need to find the wire to plug in my camera to the computer and try to post some pictures...but where did I put that darn thing!!!
I've been trying to update all my account information on line since we can't use Comcast anymore. They don't service out this far, (we are only 1.5 miles out of there area, poo). Haven't watched TV for a couple of weeks now and you know what? I don't miss it at all! If I want to watch something special like "Dancing with the Stars", I can watch it on line, with limited commercials!! I like that a lot!!
Our kitties have adjusted well and are back to acting normal. Harley likes to go with me to work in the sewing studio. She runs to the door and waits for me to pick her up and carry her to the apartment. So cute. She's my sewing buddy. Sophie stays in the main house and sleeps on the bed but she is at the back door waiting when it is time for Mike to come home! She just knows! He comes in and she is at his feet, quietly "screeching" out her hellos, (she has a horrible voice) but Mike loves it and greets her with "Where's my kitty?" They have a bond. LOL
Well, that's the latest. I know it isn't much but without pictures it is pretty boring to just hear me yak. I'll find that cord... it's got to here somewhere!????

Crazy Weekend!!

2009-10-12T11:34:00.000-07:00

I have pictures but I will have to add them at the next posting. We are in!!! YAY!!!! Slept there Saturday night and last night. So wonderful. My cats are doing okay with the change. Sophie is a trouper and took to the new house like fish to water...but Harley!! Let's just say she is a FREAK!! She had to be carried all through the house to look at every room and closet and speck on the wall before she would set toe on the ground. Then she stay at my feet everywhere I moved. Then she did not want me to sleep in my bed. She actually punched me all night! She has no claws so she didn't hurt me but I didn't get any sleep the first night there. Finally had to go downstairs and sleep on the couch with her curled up beside me. Why couldn't she do that in my bed??? Arrrgh!
Michael and I sat on the porch and watched it get dark last night. Sipped some wine and relaxed. We both feel at peace.
The house is no where near in order...boxes everywhere. I had a few volunteers helping to pack and move over the weekend and now it is a search and hunt to find things. HA HA Ha! I couldn't even find my hair brush this morning!
I still hate moving but for some reason this time it feels right.

"The Dollhouse"

2009-10-07T20:18:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

Well, we have thought long and hard on what to name our new place. We thought the name "Avondale" was good but decided tonight that it just didn't fit. Many ideas passed between Michael and I, but none inspired us until I said dollhouse. We both agreed that it was perfect!

So this is introducing our home,

"The Dollhouse"

Miniture Doll Show

2009-10-03T19:06:00.000-07:00

I had a great time today with my friend Jody. She invited me to a doll show - a miniture doll show! It was the first time I have ever been to one and it was awesome! So amazing how talented these artist are! I thought what I did was small but, my goodness, check out these booties that fit perfectly on Midge's baby!! Are they cute or what?? They are hand-knitted!

We were there about 5 and a half hours! I just know we missed something! One thing about minitures is they can sure pack a lot of stuff in a very small area. You can stand for 10 minutes easy in one spot and just when you are ready to move on there is something new that catches your eye!! Jody found some great bargain bins and I bought the beautiful white set above and the baby dolls. The whole time they were calling out numbers on the tickets you get when you pay to get in and the person that has the ticket wins a prize. Jody and I were diligent at checking ours but nothing..then I heard a number while I was talking to one of the vendors so I wasn't sure what I heard so I went up to ask and guess what! I WON!!

My prize!

I can see how easy it would be to become an enthusiast. Jody has built her own beautiful doll houses with lights and everything! I could spend hours just looking at all the details. She said she would help me with my first, when I was ready... that might be sooner then she thinks!! lol Thank you so much Jody for such a lovely day and the great company! ♥♥♥♥♥

KEYS!!!

2009-10-02T06:39:00.001-07:00

MY CABIN IN THE WOODS

I truly feel like I'm dreaming! I have always wanted a cabin in the woods, surrounded by beautiful trees with a creek or river running by. Never thought it would actually happen! We closed last Monday and I got the keys yesterday. Mike and I went up for the tour last night. I feel so at home here. I hope we get snowed in this winter!! That would be awesome. I'm going to start taking things up there, little by little. Unfortunately, my shoulder and back won't let me do a whole lot by myself, but I can do some. It doesn't really need anything but we do want to paint a few of the rooms just to freshen things up. I will call today for the utilities and to get some quotes on the flooring for the studio, (replacing the carpet with hardwood) and replacing the tile countertop in the kitchen with granite. Here's a picture of the kitchen and the tile. What color do you think would look good for the new counters tops? Dark? I like strong contrast, I was thinking a dark chocolate brown with hints of gold would bring out the honey color of the cupboards. I'll be getting a lot of samples to test. I want it to be right.

It is a nice big kitchen. The sellers left all the appliances too and they are all beautiful! I just don't know why anyone would want a tile countertop...yuck. It is pretty but uneven and I don't want to deal with keeping the grout clean. Soon I'll have my mark on all this. This place is going to scream "Christine!" (and maybe a little Michael. hee hee)

New Casuals

2009-09-30T04:45:00.000-07:00

These are just some sweet causal separates. Great looks for Fall and can be mix and matched.

The "skinny pants" are made with a cotton and lycra blend so they always fit perfect and are so easy to slip on and off for quick changes. The tops are made with a soft cotton blend sweater fabric and they either close in the back with snaps or slip over the head.

The belt is made with a great pewter chain attached to a interlocking clasp for easy on and off. Just adds a little extra to an already great look.

Look for these in my Etsy shop soon.

Neighborhood Fire!

2009-09-29T11:11:00.000-07:00

Woke up this morning with my livingroom all lit up with flashing pretty colors. Looked outside to see the whole brigade of firetrucks and paramedics! I think every truck in the city was parked in front of our house (blocking our driveway even)! A neighbors house had caught fire about 2 am and it was a big one. No one was hurt but one of their dogs died. It looks like someone might have started it on purpose. That's so scary. I was going to walk up and take pictures but it is raining out so I changed my mind for now. Maybe later.

Right now, I'm going to go get some moving boxes! A daunting task ahead of me...

Signed Papers!

2009-09-29T11:00:00.000-07:00

Well, we signed papers yesterday and gave our down money to the lenders yesterday! Something came up in the disclosures though that the sellers have to take care of and clear up but it looks like everything is a go and the house will be our home!! Yeah!!! Now for the serious packing! We will take our time though to move in. There are some things we want to do beforehand. The kitchen has tile countertops...Yuck. I want granite. I will start moving stuff into and setting up my sewing studio as soon as possible. Then I can get serious about selling my line of clothes.
I sure would appreciate a lot more feedback on the items I show. At least click the boxes below to show if you like the outfit or not. It helps me to give a better selection.

Cheers!

Hippie Girl

2009-09-28T09:07:00.000-07:00

"Love, Peace, and Rock and Roll!" Here's my version of true "flower power". I had so much fun creating this look. The bright, very bright, yellow green color just set the pace for me and inspired this outfit. The tights looked okay but then I had this idea to hand-stitch little black x's up the seam and that worked so well that it had to have a mini skirt in a sharp contrast black to show off those legs. then back to a simular hue of bright yellow green to make the top. Then of course the headband and the hand-crocheted flower with a glass bead center was a must for the pretty hippie girl. The belt made with the "love" beads made a statement too and then the jewelry had to convey a clear message of what this girl is all about. I think the task was accomplished. What do you think?

More Power to You!

Pregnant Midge has Style

2009-09-23T09:49:00.000-07:00

So, Midge and I had a very nice photo shoot. She's like a pro at it. I kept asking her if she was okay or if she needed to sit down for awhile but no, she is such a trooper. She said "The light is good right now so let's get all the shots we can!"

She was right! The light was perfect. That early morning sun really brought out her sparkle. She had a glow aboout her.

She wanted to show all the details that makes her outfit so special.

Right down to her well fitted legging/tights and the leg warmers. Then of course we had to have the glamorous tummy shot! Midge said, "Well, Demi did it!" Then she said, "I'm done, I need a nap before Alan comes home with Ryan!"

Pregnant Midge looks HOT!

2009-09-22T20:02:00.000-07:00

Okay, I have to admit that I'm very proud of this one. I'll take some better pictures tomorrow in the sun light but I just couldn't wait to add this to my Blog to share with you. This is one of my pregnant Midge dolls. (You can see more pictures of her in an earlier entry.) I have been thinking about outfits to fit and look good on her and when I finished this sweater I had a sudden brain storm. I had made some tights, (heavy pantyhose with feet), that were very roomy because the material was very stretchy. Perfect for going up over the tummy. The sweater just fit right over her tummy too. So then I had to make the leg warmers to match. The color works with her red hair and freckles. It is so Fall. I think she is beautiful...wait until you see the pictures tomorrow. I like to think I looked that good pregnant! I definitely would have worn this!

Spicy!

2009-09-17T06:51:00.000-07:00

Okay. This started with the the fish net thigh-high stockings I made to go with these great boots I found on EBay. This poor doll stood on the shelf for weeks, naked, with just the stockings and boots on, which got a few "woo-hoo's" from the men in my life, (husband, brother and my daughter's boyfriend). So I had to come up with something to end the embarrassment!

So this was my first attempt. I had this pretty stretchy knit fabric and I just made a simple tube style dress but it just looked boring. She stood on the shelf for a bit longer... until I got this idea to add the grommets and silver chains. It still needs a bit of tweaking, (my sewing was little bit off). Still, I thought it was a spicy little number.