Aerowyn's Castle -- beauties for the princess and skincare fit for a queen (and king)

busy, busy!!

2010-09-01T15:30:00.000-07:00

If you want to know how things have been going here at the castle, "BUSY!!" just about sums it up. Lots of new orders coming in, lots of new items being added. I have boutiques/shows lined up for October, November, and December. If you're local, please come see me! I'll be posting the info as I have it.

Last month, some of my items were sent off to a few celebrities. Cross your fingers that something big comes of that.

I also got news that my little one may be brought back to "All My Children" for more filming. If she makes it to air, I'll let you know :-)

My biggest announcement is my latest business venture. I am teaming up with a good friend of mine and joining her in Rodan + Fields Dermatologists. She took her team to the top in six months. I am hoping that I can do the same under her mentorship. Yes, I'll admit I was skeptical when she asked me to join her in the beginning. I wanted to see if the success was actually possible. Well, I can now tell you that it is. I am excited to share success with all of you and invite you to try the products and join my team. There's a money back guarantee, so why not give it a shot?? Contact me for more info today! jonesrandf@gmail.com

aww, feel the love

2010-07-28T10:22:00.000-07:00

I brought a little gift from Aerowyn to baby Simone's proud daddies Bill and Scout (aka "The Guncles") at Tori Spelling's book signing last night. Sadly, we forgot to get a pic with them with everything that was going on :-( I'm happy to share that a pic of Simone's newest tutu is posted on their blog. I couldn't decide what colors to make it and Aerie suggested pink (go figure, lol). I didn't know if the guys liked the "pink Sleeping Beauty" vs "blue Sleeping Beauty" (I prefer blue), so I went a little more modern with a hot pink/black/white look. Thanks guys for sharing a pic!

Oh, and to the hater that sent the nasty message to me on FB calling me "crazy" for making a gift for a "baby I don't know" and that I needed to get a life for thinking I know someone just because I follow them online and how a celebrity would never take gifts from strangers and actually use them... maybe you should get your facts straight before opening your mouth. I made a gift for someone I've met before because I'm so happy for them for having one of their biggest dreams come true. It was a gift from my little girl (who he remembered) to his little girl. It's called being nice, not that you would know the meaning of that.

my incredible day -- thanks to an angel

2010-07-27T22:47:00.001-07:00

Aaron, I miss you every day and will love you always. Thank you for everything you gave me, the memories, the laughs, and the happiness in my life. I know you're up there pulling some strings for me.

Today started out great and continued from there. It wasn't until tonight that I realized it was you. It was my angel in heaven sharing his happy birthday with me. Happy Birthday Aaron. I wish you could be here to enjoy it. I'll have a drink for you soon. Jaeger and red bull... couldn't you have liked something better?? j/k Only for you...

I woke up this morning to a text message: "You won you won!" from my BFF. A handbag company was doing a contest on Facebook and I put my guess for the country with their 19th largest fanbase on FB. Wouldn't you know that a guess (albeit somewhat calculated) of "Malaysia" would get me a Harvey's seatbelt bag minnie?? Yay me!

Then I did some creating: a tutu dress and matching tulle flower clip for a precious baby girl and a similar clip for her "stellar" big cousin. They came out exactly as I'd hoped.

Then off to the mall to prep for a Tori Spelling book signing. For those that don' t know, Tori chose my daughter as one of her twitter winners to be a model for Little Maven last year. If you watch her show, you know Tori was incredibly ill that day and we only got a chance to meet her as she was heading home for the day. Today was all about getting a pic of my daughter with Tori since we couldn't get one that day. I'd made a hair clip for Stella after Tori mentioned that clips didn't really stay in Stella's then-short hair. In the rush, I forgot to give it to her. Of course I've known where that clip was until today when I needed it, so Stella got a new creation instead.

My 2.5 year old napped on the way there, woke to ride the carousel and eat lunch and was such a good girl while waiting hours for the signing to start. As we got to the front of the line, I was moving my stroller off to the side and shouted my daughter's name to come back as she was dancing around. From behind me, I hear Scout (one of Tori's best friends) say "I know ____" and Tori comes out from behind the table to give me and my daughter hugs. It felt so good to be remembered out of the thousands and thousands of people they meet. We got some great pics too!! I'll post them soon.

So Aaron, if you can read this, thank you. Happy Birthday!

TONS of new stuff!!!!

2010-05-12T17:49:00.000-07:00

It has been VERY busy at the castle lately. Robert is done with the "classroom" years of pharmacy, we're prepping for my nephew's wedding and Robert's Alaska rotation, and Aerowyn's Castle is a sponsor/vendor at this year's Eastvale Picnic in the Park. It's a huge 3-day carnival in my local area (walking distance, yay!). It's got rides, food vendors, performances, retail vendors, and a GREAT fireworks show. I'm busy working every day trying to get enough merchandise ready to fill my booth for the thousands of potential customers I'll be meeting. Ohh, that number was just a reality check... need to order more business cards. And here I thought 1000 would be a good starting number. So, here are some of the items I've made recently:

Introducing: Memo Board / Bow Holders!!!

2010-03-27T10:21:00.000-07:00

I'm just getting started with these, so more pics will be coming soon!

Styles: frameless, framed, tutu, ribbons angled or straight, with or without foam to use push pins

Taking custom orders for colors/themes while I build my inventory.

Here is an example of a designer-framed board with angled ribbons:

Introducing the all-new reversible lattice tutu!!

2010-03-20T09:29:00.000-07:00

After trying several different techniques for making reversible tutus, I believe I have created my winning design. Lattice knotwork keeps each color on it's own side instead of allowing them to blend.

Here is my first new reversible tutu:

"Mocha Sky" -- $30

New Creations!!

2010-03-20T08:24:00.000-07:00

A few new designs!!!

"Purplicious"

This tutu was made by blending 4 beautiful shades of purple (grape, deep purple, lavender, and purple) to create a flowing purple paradise.

"Patriotic"

Get ready for Memorial Day, the 4th of July, or any other occasion. Great for a July birthday too!

"Parisian"

Made of black, white, and paris pink tulle, this is perfect for your little girl. Put on a cute hanger and use as part of your room decor when she's not wearing it!

It's TUTU WEEK!!

2010-03-17T23:04:00.000-07:00

I have ordered every color of tulle my vendor carries! Now is the time to get your orders in without having to wait on a tulle shipment. I've dedicated this week to creating as many tutus as I can fit into my free time. Here are a few of my creations so far:

The "Shamrock" -- $25

This tutu is made from kelly, light pink, and white tulle and was made to match the custom appliqued tee ($20) and the hairbow ($8). These outfits can be custom designed for any occasion. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, sports teams, princess parties, etc. Message me your ideas and we'll design the perfect outfit.

The "Ballet" -- $30

This tutu is made from light pink, white, and black tulle. Finished with light pink satin ribbon at the waist and a pink/white/black ballet slipper bow. Add a matching hair bow for $8.

The "Easter Egg" -- $25

Made from grape, soft blue, paris pink, and maize tulle, this tutu was made to match an Easter egg hair bow and custom tee (coming soon)

Order an Easter tutu and get a free pair of bunny ears!! Custom order any color combo up to 4 colors.

Just a reminder, but 20% of all purchases through the end of March are going to support the family of Layla Grace.

For Layla Grace

2010-03-10T15:44:00.000-08:00

Layla Grace
11/27/07 - 3/9/10
http://laylagrace.org/

For those who haven't heard, a beautiful little girl, 2 year old Layla Grace, went to play with the angels yesterday. She was a month older than my little girl. The thought of losing her makes my throat tighten and the room spin as the tears begin to flow. I can't even imagine what her family is going through. What I do know is that their family is left with a mountain of medical bills. It should be happy things that bring reminders of their little girl, not a stack of paperwork.

Aerowyn's Castle already has a tutu sale (20% off) going through 5pm on 3/12. To help Layla's family, this is what I'm going to do:

Now through 3/12: Tutu sale remains at 20% off. For all other purchases (not including shipping), 20% will go to Layla's family for medical expenses. If you'd like, you can forfeit the discount on your tutu purchases and donate it to Layla's family.

3/13-3/31: 20% of all purchases (not including shipping) will go to Layla's family for medical expenses. I will personally match the 20% donation up to $200.

To see some of the available items, visit http://tinyurl.com/y9p55ly. I have over 40 colors of tulle and love custom design work. Send me your ideas and we'll create something just for you.

A few new items!!

2010-03-08T19:52:00.001-08:00

Don't pay for half a tutu!!
All Aerowyn's Castle tutus are double-fluff
and therefore not see-through.

"Cotton Candy"
baby pink/white -- $25
add a ribbon-wrapped waist and bow -- $5

Pink Glimmer
hot pink/silver glimmer with wrapped waist and bow $35

NEW!! REVERSIBLE TUTUS!!
hot pink/black -- $25
add wrapped waist and removable bow -- $7

"big/lil"
Custom colors to meet your needs
single shirt -- $25
set -- $45

Interchangable flower headbands
All flower clips are fully-lined with no slip clips.
Mix and match, wear the clip in your hair or attach to a beanie.

Happy hearts day!!!

2010-02-14T21:17:00.000-08:00

Here's a bad cell phone pic of my little valentine modeling an outfit made entirely by mommy (ok, not the shoes, lol).
Valentines bow (or any color/holiday you choose): $8

Double hearts applique shirt: $20

Double-fluff pink and red tutu: $25

Seeing my beautiful baby rockin' the hot pink cast: priceless.

2010 is the year!!

2010-02-07T18:13:00.000-08:00

With the new stay of testing for CPSIA and finding a location to teach my sign language classes, this is the year that I get "Aerowyn's Castle" and "Sing Me a Sign" officially off the ground.

Sing Me a Sign: Even though I hold an advanced certification through the Signing Time Academy, I am starting small and sticking with Baby Signing Time classes. Coming soon to Anaheim Hills, CA. If you're interested in attending classes, would like information on the program, or would like to have me come do a workshop, please contact me at Sing Me a Sign. The website is a work in progress, so please excuse the mess.

Aerowyn's Castle: Now anyone who knows me, knows this is my baby. I love being creative and have soooo many ideas and not enough time. I will be offering a variety of children's and non-kid items. In addition to all of the custom items I already offer, I am adding tutus, tutu tees, tutu dress, baby leg warmers, and a few other goodies this month. While I'm building inventory, please contact me for custom orders. When I reach 100 fans, I'll start my etsy shop... so come motivate me and become a fan!! Here's a sneak peak at a tutu with a set of legwarmers for Valentine's Day (oh, and the bow too).

Hubby's winter break = Lots of projects getting done

2009-12-16T23:09:00.000-08:00

In addition to making beef stew, baking cornbread muffins, cleaning out the garage (mostly) and part of the house, and decorating for Christmas, I got the following orders completed for Aerowyn's Castle.

a "big sis" T-shirt custom rush order for Allie

and here is one of two sets of custom embroidered burp cloths

Other projects I'm working on: more appliqued shirts, a large blanket, doll carriers (mei tai, ring sling, and stretchy wrap), several bows and a tutu.

I love custom orders, so send me your ideas for shirts, burpies, blankets, bows, tutus, etc. and I'll get working on them!!

HUGE Signing Time sale!!!

2009-11-24T17:44:00.001-08:00

See below for a great sale going on through the academy store this weekend! Access the store at http://www.signingtimeacademy.com/brendajones

Feel free to repost this to your friends/family :-)

I am still offering a $10 gift card for the first purchase over $50 (after discounts and before shipping)!!!

Signing Time Holiday Specials

Many gifts fade over time but the benefits of signing with your child will last a lifetime! Make this holiday special and memorable with Signing Time.

Friday, November 27 - 50% off orders over $25

* All single DVDs, CDs, Books and Flash Cards are 50% off on orders over $25
* No Coupon Necessary
* Excludes ALL GIFT SETS AND COLLECTIONS
* Not Valid with any other offer
* Good one day only
* Not available to wholesale and distributors

Saturday, November 28 - $15 off orders over $50

* $15 off orders over $50
* No Coupon Necessary
*
* Not Valid with any other offer
* Good one day only
* Not available to wholesale and distributors

Sunday, November 29 - Free shipping on orders over $50

* Free shipping on orders over $50
*
* No Coupon Necessary
* Not Valid with any other offer
* Good one day only
* Not available to wholesale and distributors
* Free shipping available on domestic U.S. orders only
* Free shipping via USPS Media Mail (2-3 weeks for delivery)

Monday, November 30 - 20% off all gift sets & Collections

* 20% off already discounted gift sets *Note: Gift sets are not gift wrapped
* No Coupon Necessary
* Not Valid with any other offer
* Good one day only
* Not available to wholesale and distributors

boutique all-nighter

2009-11-20T03:43:00.000-08:00

At the last minute (aka 8pm before a 10am show), I decided to get a few things together for a small craft show/boutique hosted by a friend's mommy group. So in the past few hours, I finished 2 new sets of burp cloths, 3 picture frames, and 3 bows. I've put together the pricing sheet for the Signing Time merchandise, organized some photos of other projects I've done in the past, and had Robert design my flyer. I just have to get everything printed and packed up. It's now almost 4am and I'm hoping to be done by 5am so I can get a few hours of sleep. Unfortunately, baby is awake, so that is taking up some precious time. If you're in the area, Aerowyn's Castle and Sing Me a Sign will be at Heritage Park in Tustin at 10 am. Wish me luck!!

New Business!!!!

2009-11-12T18:15:00.000-08:00

I'm excited to announce that I am officially certified as a Master level instructor with Signing Time!

I will be teaching sign language courses using the Signing Time! materials and curriculum to infants/toddlers/kiddos and their families as well as professionals. In addition to teaching, I am also a vendor for Signing Time! products :-) DVDs, books, and flash cards make great presents for the kiddos in your life and your favorite mama-to-be. I grew up learning sign language, used it in my 10+ year career in early childhood special education/autism intervention, and most importantly with my now 22-month old daughter. She has been signing since she was 8 months old and has well over 100 signs. Frustration with difficulties communicating (a.k.a. the infamous "terrible two's") are practically non-existent.

Check out my store to order your new Signing Time! products today :-)
http://www.signingtimeacademy.com/brendajones

Contact me at brenda@singmeasign.com for a coupon code!!

My personal website will be up and running as soon as I have a chance to write it all out!

6 years. (long one, sorry)

2009-10-21T19:45:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's been 6 years. Can't believe how quickly it went by, how much has changed, how much those last few days are still ingrained in my memory. But, I'm noticing holes in those memories now. I know I'll lose more and more. My computer with all of our photos crashed and is awaiting a very expensive recovery. I have a few I rescued from a website I used to have. I have no idea what happened to the video and there are no other copies floating around any longer that I know of.

It's been a rough week, one very few of my friends really understand... maybe only one really does. Sunday 10/18/09. CHOC walk at Disneyland. Good day with friends, great cause, but all I could think about was 1o/18/03. Also at Disneyland. Aaron and his kiddos came to Disney with me and my family. It was a great day. I loved spending time with him again since I hadn't seen him in a while (I'd moved to Vegas). I loved seeing the kids again. I loved seeing Disneyland through his eyes, the sheer excitement and amazement watching Fantasmic that night. I will forever have that smile in my mind. I will remember our phone conversation the night before we went to Disney. I will always remember what he said. I will forever remember the time we spent, that last hug goodbye when he dropped me off at the airport. I miss his hugs. I remember sitting on the plane and looking out the window when we took off thinking that was the last time I was going to see him. I thought that was such a strange thought. Unfortunately, I was right.

I asked Aaron to come visit me on Sunday. Anything to show me he was there with me. All day went by, and nothing. Until I got ready to leave. I wish I could get the video off my blackberry, but it was too long and can't be emailed :-( I left my friends at the park to take tired me and sleeping baby home. I walked into downtown Disney and there was a guy playing "Tears in heaven" on an acoustic guitar. It stopped me in my tracks. This was a song from Aaron's service. He was there. It was everything I could do to not lose it in Disney.

6 years ago tomorrow... the last time I talked to him. It was a quick conversation, but one I'm glad we had. I will forever regret not calling him for our usual Thursday chat. I'd call when he was on his way to pick up/drop off kiddos. After the week we'd both had, I was exhausted. I decided to go to bed early and to call him the next day. He didn't have a next day. Of all the moments I wish I could redo in life, that's probably at the top of my list. "One more day." That song by Diamond Rio summed it up good. I happened to have it on my CD of songs I made that reminded me of Aaron when I went out for his service. We used it in his service.

Saturday morning will be 6 years since his crash. 6 years since I woke up to that horrible phone call. I can still hear Steph's words like it was yesterday. "I'm sorry sweetie... he didn't make it." I have pictures from the crash site. I don't look at them but I have them. Pictures of the broken trees, the divots in the road, the sidewalk where he was. It still doesn't seem real at times.

Thank you Aaron for everything you gave me. Thank you for the memories. Thank you for helping me get to where I am in life. I miss you every day. I always will. You are my angel. I love you.

New facebook page!!

2009-10-15T22:59:00.001-07:00

I'm putting all of my Aerowyn's Castle creations on a new page. Stop by and become a fan!

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=764573590&v=feed&story_fbid=168713904312#/pages/Aerowyns-Castle/89405154283?v=wall&ref=mf

More new stuff!!

2009-06-08T22:43:00.000-07:00

I'm working on setting up a good way to show inventory for sale, descriptions, prices, etc. but for now, Facebook is the simplest and quickest way to get it done. Gotta love direct upload from the BB Storm. They keep changing the album code, which makes it very difficult to keep it current, but for now, here's the link to the current "for sale" items. As always, custom orders are always welcome!

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=76973&id=764573590&l=5d20f288eb

New stuff!!!

2009-05-16T10:50:00.000-07:00

Red, white, and blue bow. Can be attached to a french or alligator clip.

Embroidered kitchen towel. Custom designs welcome.

Stars for the 4th. Available on french or alligator clips.

Custom embroidered set for baby "cheese chain"

Custom designed applique

101 tasks in 1001 days

2009-05-05T14:24:00.000-07:00

The Mission:Complete 101 preset tasks in a period of 1001 days.

The Criteria:Tasks must be specific (i.e. no ambiguity in the wording) with a result that is either measurable or clearly defined. Tasks must also be realistic and stretching (i.e. represent some amount of work on my part).

Why 1001 Days? Many people have created lists in the past - frequently simple goals such as New Year's resolutions. The key to beating procrastination is to set a deadline that is realistic. 1001 Days (about 2.75 years) is a better period of time than a year, because it allows you several seasons to complete the tasks, which is better for organizing and timing some tasks such as overseas trips or outdoor activities.

Start Date: Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Day 1001: Tuesday, January 31, 2012

To do In Progress Completed

Health, Beauty & Nutrition (0/12)
Go to the dentist (and have Aerowyn examined too)
Get my annual exam
Get an eye exam
Take vitamins every day for 2 consecutive months (0/2)
Go for a walk with the baby for at least 30 minutes 5 days a week for 1 month (0/4)
Do my hair and makeup 3 days a week for 1 month (0/4)
Floss every day for 2 months (0/2)
Lose 25 lbs
Drink 64-80 oz of water a day every day for 2 months (0/2)
Give up sweets (candy, ice cream, cookies, etc) for 2 consecutive weeks (0/2)
Give up soda for 1 month
Give up fast food for 1 month

Activities (0/11)
Take mommy and me dance lessons
Enroll Aerowyn in swimming lessons
Enroll Aerowyn in gymnastics lessons
Take Aerowyn to 3 stage productions (0/3)
Have a family picnic at the beach
Go camping in the backyard
Take pictures in a photo booth
Fly a kite
Schedule daddy/daughter date night once a month for 3 months (1/3)
-- May: Brea mall and downtown shopping/dinner
Take a family hike
Learn to scuba dive

Food Stuff (0/4)
Bake a cake from scratch (frosting too)
Try 15 recipes from “Cook Yourself Thin” and put faves in a book/organizer (0/15)
Eat 5 servings of fruits and veggies a day for 5 days a week for 1 month (0/4)
Try 5 new restaurants (0/5)
-- Melting Pot

Travel & Adventures (0/5)
Go to the SD Zoo or Wild Animal Park
Do a day at Disneyland (at least 4 hours) without bringing the stroller
Go to the Exploratorium
Plan a tropical vacation (take it if $ allows)
Take a vacation to another state

Personal Growth / Mental Health (0/10)
Complete this initial list of 101 things – 5/5/09
Take a self portrait every week for 52 weeks (0/52)
Take a picture of Aerowyn every day for a year (0/365)
Make a list of 100 things that make me happy (0/100)
Get a will or living trust written
Write a list of 10 things I love about myself (0/10)
Unplug (no phone, computer, TV) one day a month for 3 months (0/3)
Wear and feel good in a bikini
Have a spa day once baby is ready for longer times without mama
Have a new list of 101 things written before day 1001

Just for Me (0/13)
Load 100 songs (at least 10 for A) and 5 videos (for A) on the ipod
Learn how to download music and videos to my blackberry
Transfer all of my camcorder footage to DVD
Update my blog at least 3 times a week for 2 months (0/2)
Buy a Coach bag
Teach Aerowyn 3 new ASL signs every week for 6 months (0/6)
-- May: water, cereal, cookie
Read 50 books (includes below) (0/50)
Read 5 books from Oprah’s book club and 5 books from the NY Times Bestsellers List
Eliminate FB for 1 week
Research getting a dog and pick top 3 breeds
Ask an acquaintance out for coffee, etc. (make a new friend to hang out with)
Back up my laptop
Eliminate the f-word from my vocabulary

Family & Friends (0/7)
Update Aerowyn’s journal at least once a week for 6 months (0/6)
Send “just because” gifts to 5 special people in my life (0/5)
Call my dad every week for 2 months (0/2)
-- 5/10
Send out the 2009 Easter pics that are still sitting here
Attend Robert’s USC School of Pharmacy graduation (May 2011)
Get family portraits done every year (0/3)
Have another baby

Around the House (0/17)
Load the digital frame with at least 50 pictures and hang it
Update the digital frame every 6 months for the duration of the 1001 days (0/6)
Unpack at least 20 boxes from the garage and baby bins (0/20)
Paint and redecorate Aerowyn’s room
Clean out and get rid of the storage unit
Have a clean family room and kitchen before bedtime 5 nights a week for 3 months (0/3)
Frame and hang 10 photos (at least 2 with me in them) (0/10)
Paint the master bedroom and bathroom
Design and plan backyard landscaping
Get 3 estimates for backyard landscaping (and get it done if $ allows) (0/3)
Wash and clean out my car once a month for 3 months (0/3)
Scrub the kitchen and bathrooms completely once a week for a month (0/4)
Organize the bathroom cabinets and medicine cabinets (including a 1st aid kit)
Assemble an emergency/disaster kit for the house and cars
Plant and maintain an herb garden with at least 3-5 herbs
Craigslist/freecycle/garage sale at least 5 large boxes of stuff we don’t need/use (0/5)
Have a fresh bouquet of flowers in the house once a month for 6 months (1/6)
-- 5/11,

Finances and Shopping (0/4)
Go to Target without buying impulse items for 4 consecutive trips (0/4)
Make a monthly budget and stick to it for 8 of 12 months (0/8)
Help Robert secure the trust fund that is trustee-less
Research setting up a website, accepting credit cards, etc. for Aerowyn’s Castle

People & Society (0/7)
Pay someone else’s bill
Meet and have conversations with at least 2 neighbors (0/2)
Buy a homeless person a meal
Inspire someone to write their own 101 in 1001 list – 5/5/09 Maren is part way done
Send a care package via anysoldier.com
Use at least 5 reusable grocery bags for 5 consecutive shopping trips (0/5)
Donate $5 to charity (to be named later) for items not completed

Creativity (0/11)
Complete at least 5 projects for sale (frame, bow, onesie, etc.) every week for 3 months (0/3)
Learn to do embroidery machine appliqué
Learn to use at least 2 shortcuts on photoshop for embroidery design (0/2)
Learn to use the DSLRs and shoot in full manual
Take 100 depth of focus shots with the 50mm lens (0/100)
Make a “My first year” DVD of photos and videos of Aerowyn
Design photo albums of Aerowyn for 2008, 2009, and 2010 and have them printed (0/3)
Set up my etsy shop with at least 25 items across 3 types in stock
Sell 10 items on etsy in one month
Enter a craft fair
Learn to sew a hooded towel, bloomers, and a simple toddler dress

Other items that I thought of after the fact: (0/13) – these get to come off the next 101 list
Finish Aerowyn’s baby book
Find and have a jeweler make the pendant that Robert designed me for Christmas
Have a romantic dinner date with Robert
Have a romantic weekend away
Have boudoir photos taken for Robert
Start leaving love notes for Robert around the house or sending texts
See a dermatologist for a full-body mole/freckle scan
Make a list of 50 movies I want to see
…and watch them all (1/50)
Change the address on my driver’s license
Either preserve my wedding dress or get Trash the Dress photos taken
Make an album of pregnancy photos
Put lotion on after every shower for 1 month

For info on creating your own 101 Things to do in 1001 Days visit: http://www.triplux.com/dayzero/

Pampered pooch!

2009-05-03T20:37:00.000-07:00

I've just made my first doggie bows. I know that dogs often use the same bow design as kiddos, but in searching for ideas, I noticed that a LOT of them were designed this way. I also found that french clips are easier to use, but double elastics are recommended instead for safety reasons. Here are my first 2 bows I made to complete an order. Both are double loops, hand sewn, and attached to double elastics. The pink camo bow has 2 light pink beads in the center and the black and white has a doggie bone resin. ($5 each) **please note bows have not been fully fluffed in this photo

Embroidery projects

2009-05-03T09:38:00.000-07:00

I'm happy to announce that we have figured out the tricks to the custom designs and have made some great first projects with the embroidery machine! I'll get pics up as soon as the projects are completed. I need to pick up a few other fabrics before I can finish. Once I have prices set, I'll get them up for sale. Stay in touch!

Yay! Yay! Yay!

2009-04-22T22:29:00.000-07:00

My wonderful husband, the worried-about-spending-money husband, approved the purchase of a kick butt sewing/embroidery machine. I can't wait to figure it out and get some projects together. I'm really hoping that this little business will pick up some time soon and I can start helping to bring money into the house instead of just sending it out. Of course start up costs are a bit rough, but I have my fingers crossed that I can make this work. I went to Joanns and got some great, yummy soft fabrics today. Keep a lookout for new products soon!

Adding to the repertoire!

2009-04-20T00:54:00.000-07:00

Wow, never knew I could be so crafty (or is it cheap, lol). I love boutique stuff, but I can't shop the boutiques and be a SAHM. In a few years, maybe. Now, not so much. Besides, boutiques are so overpriced. Why not offer affordable boutique-quality items when everyone is trying to save a dime? Just because money is tight is no reason to be without the "cool stuff," lol.

Here's a sample of appliqued items that I will be adding to the
product list for "Aerowyn's Castle" (prices TBD).

Adding the fancy, schmancy no-dents nylon headband perfect for babies that don't have enough hair to hold all those gorgeous bows you have.

And just wanted to show off this cupcake bow that I made for a custom order. Act quickly, as I only have one more cupcake embellishment to use and sell ;-P

Easter!!

2009-04-13T11:55:00.000-07:00

Coloring on an egg with a wax crayon.

Looking cute!

Stirring the dye...

Taking the egg OUT of the dye. She cried when it got put in.
Apparently it was ruining her fun.

That's better (note the egg laying on the table)

Playing with eggs and plain water. No more mess!
Easter morning. I hear money in these eggs. Woohoo!!!!Why is there a flower on my head?

Hey, I still fit in the basket!

My new book :-)

My cool new bunny. I loved boogeying to the music.
I found one!

Ooh, money and chocolate!!! I think I'll keep this one.

Push me Brayden!

On the big girl swing. Wheeee!!!!!

What's Easter without a little wii Rock Band??

Flying :-)

With cousins Brandon and Brayden, and Great-auntie Helen

Awwwww

Mmmm, easter egg cake from Eddie's Bakery

Life on the farm

2009-04-13T11:33:00.000-07:00

We are so lucky to live in a part of suburbia that still has access to farm life. In February, we went to Amy's Farm in Chino (just a few miles from the house). It was right after the big rains and was super muddy, so miss independent had to wear her snow boots to walk around.

Ok, so far so good. I think this is ok.

Never mind. A rooster got too close and I'm not a happy camper.

I like the giant cow.

But I'm just not feeling the goats. Not even the babies in the tub.
Or maybe it's the fact that I'm standing in squisy mud.

Waiting to hold a baby bunny.

Holding a baby bunny.

Feeding a baby cow a bottle of milk.

And our most recent farm trip to Centennial Farm in Costa Mesa at the OC Fairgrounds. We had a play date with some of our gymboree friends.

Baby piglets.

And a baby goat. He was super tiny.

And one of the baby lambs.

I kept going into this barn.

Last shot of the day.

Easter bunny horror

2009-04-09T22:14:00.000-07:00

Who decided that little kids should sit on the laps of giant rabbits and be happy about it?? I mean really. They're creepy. So, as the "good mommy" that I am, I subjected my daughter to this not once, but twice, this year. First we went to Irvine Park Railroad with some of our friends from our gymboree playgroup. 11 kiddos ages 1 month to 1.5 years were with us. A total of 2 kiddos (the oldest and youngest) did not scream at the poor bunny to start his shift. Don't feel too bad for Aerowyn. She stopped screaming the second I asked if she was done and proceeded to stand about 5 feet from him shouting "hi" and waving.

Well, the first attempt at the bunny went so well, we decided to do it again. We went back to the bunny we saw last year for Aerowyn's first Easter. (sorry no pics... they're on the other computer) Of course I needed a pic of her in her new dress and the bow I made to match. I think she actually hated this bunny even more. We did, however, get some cute pics while waiting in line.

The circus is in town!

2009-04-09T11:08:00.001-07:00

I know we all have memories of going to the circus when we were little and watching the elephants, lions, etc. Well, things have changed. Circuses weren't treating their big animals well. As a result, shows like Circus Vargas no longer have big animals in their shows. Some still do, but the best way to protest them is to support those that don't. So, a big top got raised not far from the house and our friends invited us to go. It was a great show with trapeze, clowns, dogs and cats, etc. Aerowyn LOVED it. We sprung the "big bucks" for front row seats so she could see easily. She boogied, waved, said "hi" to everyone, etc. We couldn't use a flash, so not many of the pics of Aerowyn came out, but here's a few to share. There are more on daddy's website: www.rjdigitalphoto.com.

New items at the castle!

2009-04-09T01:12:00.000-07:00

I've been busy making several custom orders/gifts. Here's a few of the latest faves:

Spring has sprung!!

2009-04-09T00:56:00.000-07:00

We had an impromptu photo shoot a couple of days ago. Couldn't resist taking pics when she just looked so darned cute. Aerowyn loves to water the flowers that her nana planted, not to mention watering herself in the process. What can I say? She's a water baby.

Adventures in baby jeans

2009-03-23T20:15:00.000-07:00

Why is it that I finally find a cute pair of jeans that fit my daughter well... and they're from the non-existent Mervyns. So, on the hunt I go to find jeans that aren't floods but will actually stay up over her skinny butt. And I do this in SoCal as the weather is warming up and jeans are nowhere to be found. Target: no elastic, those will never stay up. Old Navy, you know... the denim place? Yeah, no jeans except capris. I drove around and discovered a The Children's Place store nearby... Yay!! Now this is a mixed blessing. I have memories of Aaron tied to that store, but while they are happy memories, it's hard for me to go into that store because it reminds me of him. But, a little girl needs a good pair of jeans. So, as the mother of an almost 15-month old little girl whose 12 month jeans are looking a bit floodish, I buy her 3 great pair of 18 month jeans: glitter flare, dark stone flare, and pink wash flare. Now I know that us older gals wear our jeans on the long side for those times we wear them with heels, but my baby? No heels for her any time soon... although I did see several heeled sandals in her size which is beyond my understanding, but whatever. The new jeans fit her waist perfectly (yippee as that is an accomplishment in and of itself) and they don't have crazy designs all over them that don't match any of her tops (and yes, I care about her jeans matching her tops). But the length!! They're about an inch too long. So do I go spend more money I don't want to be spending to get the 12 month size and have her outgrow them in a month, or do I risk another trip to the ER when she trips and lands on her face again? $11 for jeans or $600 for the doc to say "she's fine"? Looks like I'm driving back to the store again tomorrow. Of course, I'll keep the ones that are too big because they'll fit her someday, right?

the grass is greener...

2009-03-12T23:47:00.001-07:00

I got together with a few of my mommy friends tonight. It was a nice night out with daddy picking up baby from me for a bit so I could enjoy my dinner and friends. Aerowyn was SUCH a good girl at the restaurant while we waited for daddy. Everyone commented on how good she was, how well she ate, how they couldn't do that with their same-age toddlers. So do I have the perfect baby?? I was quick to remind them as they were saying how jealous they were... that my little angel still wakes up every 2 hours at night to nurse and thinks naps are a joke. Sleeping through the night is some foreign concept that I cannot fathom (although she did it for a couple of weeks at 3 months). Although a full night of sleep sounds heavenly, I don't think I'd change anything. I like our private time and I know that the day will come that she doesn't want to nurse or cuddle with me at night and I'll miss her. So for now, a sleepy me will continue to love our extra cuddle time and enjoy the wonderful angel that she is during her waking hours. Of course waking ever 4 hours instead of every 2 would be a welcome change.

A quick walk

2009-03-09T23:32:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy weekend, but most of the pics and video are trapped on "real" cameras and not the Storm, so upload is a bit lacking. We drove down to Escondido to see/listen to Brother Luke, aka Shaun deGraff, a musician friend of ours who was in town from Vegas. I promise to upload pictures and video of Aerowyn dancing on stage with him. These pictures were from our walk around the lakes at Dos Lagos. I can't believe how big and independent my little girl is getting. She did the whole walk on her own and chattered the whole way. She is so excited to be walking.

overcoming fear

2009-02-27T23:54:00.000-08:00

I love this photo of Aerowyn.

It looks like she's having a great time sitting on this alligator statue at the LA Zoo. What you don't know is the back story.

Aerowyn was having a great time on the slide at the zoo until... mama wanted to get a picture of her on the alligator. She happily walked away from the slide, curiosity taking her to check out whatever I must have had planned next. Then she saw it. I admit, it looks real. She froze and broke out into hysterics. Being the "mean mommy" that I am (I wanted that picture, dang it), I took her hand and walked her over there any way. Yes, she looks happy. That's because she has a crowd of people (aka family) basically doing backflips and cheering to get her to do the same.

It's funny how we can overcome some big fears as little people. We overcome to try new things... and end up ok. As we get older, we let the fear get the best of us. Fear of rejection, fear of failure, fear of just about anything. I wish we could remember what we knew as little kids. I think they have the right idea.

Welcome to the Castle

2009-02-20T09:13:00.000-08:00

I've been inspired by my friends' blogs to finally start one of my own. Maybe this will keep me on top of uploading pics and sharing them ;-)

Princess Aerowyn is 13.5 months old and becoming more and more "girl" every day. I hope to share her accomplishments and overall cuteness on this site. I'll be sharing random family stuff along the way too.

Aerowyn's Castle is also my up-and-coming, not quite running, etsy site. I'll post it as soon as I get it going. Being a mommy on a budget with a little princess at home, I've learned to make a lot of that cute "boutique" stuff such as hair bows and clips, tutus, deco burp cloths, baby legs etc. Now that Aerowyn can entertain herself for a bit of time, I'm finally able to start making these on a more regular basis for sale. I'm hoping to share my creations with all of you to get input and suggestions (and maybe a sale or two) as I expand my repetoire of items.

King Robert (aka daddy) is finishing his second year of pharmacy school at USC. In addition to all of that studying (lol, what studying?), he has a small photography business on the side. You can check out some his pictures at www.rjdigitalphoto.com. For her safety, all of Aerowyn's pictures are currently password protected. I'll be loading select pictures here. Message me (can you do that on here?) or leave a comment with a way to contact you and I'll send you the password. I want to know who has access to them.