My Newest Obsession

I seem to have a lot of these lately! I have been in super crafting mode this week. I am loving having time off from school to spend time with my girls and attack all the Christmas projects I've been putting off. Plus, it's been so nice I've moved my workspace to the table outside so the girls can play while I get all my projects done :) One of my favorite projects this week has been the crayon roll. I am by no means a skilled seamstress so this easy project is right up my alley. Just a few scraps of fabric, a hair tie, a button (you can substitute the hair tie and button with a ribbon) and my good old Viking and here's what you get:

I love it! Plus, you can change up the fabric to make it for boys, girls or even adults. I made one with colored pencils recently. I may just make one for myself to throw in my purse. I don't know about you, but I am constantly digging around in the bottom of my purse to find a pen. This would be a great solution to that problem! :) It's the little things in life...

I'll work up a tutorial on this the next time I make one.

Janessa

I've Officially Crossed Over...

Well, I guess I am finally giving in and admitting that I am officially a Dance Mom now. I'm not sure how to do this job, but I guess I'm going to learn :) Both Belle and Rose have been involved with Christmas shows with their dance studio, Tampa Bay Dance FX. They are having so much fun! This is uncharted waters for me because I grew up playing sports so I am counting on learning as I go. There is a little part of me holding out some hope that the girls will enjoy dance AND want to play sports. I guess only time will tell. Until then, here's my life...

Rose does the Penguin Cha-cha in this adorable little outfit. I wish I would have had my video camera out a few shows ago because I looked over when the show was finished and the girls were visiting with the audience, and Rose was signing autographs!

My one-legged elf. I couldn't get her to stand still for a picture.

One of Rose's best buddies just happens to be the owner's son.

Her choice for a future husband is a tough race between Owen and Buzz Lightyear.

The older girls at Dance FX are awesome with the younger girls. Belle loves Miss Mac!

Now, 10 years ago if you had asked I would have said I would never become a dance mom. Don't tell anyone, but I think I might actually be enjoying it. Shhh! That's our little secret! :)

Janessa

The Christmas Countdown Is On!

Last year I went looking on the Internet to find an easy advent calendar. I ran across the cutest idea at Tatertots & Jello and decided to give it a try. I grabbed a few cookie sheets at the Dollar Tree, some festive scrapbook paper and my Modge Podge (love this stuff!) Here's what I came up with:

I glue gunned a ribbon to the back to make a hanger for it.

I made these fun magnets by gluing scrapbook paper to small magnets.

The girls love taking turns each day putting a magnet on. Plus, as an added bonus when there's a picture of a candy cane on the magnet, they get a candy cane. When there's a picture of a present, they get a small present. I love the dollar section of Target for these little gifts. :) The 24th has a present which always ends up being new pajamas because you have to have a new pair of super cute jammies for Christmas morning pictures! Baby Jesus is our last magnet to remind us of the real reason for Christmas. The girls love it, and it was super easy to make :) Anyone else have a cute idea for counting down until Christmas? I'd love to hear any new ideas!

Janessa