Dreaming of Snowflakes...

Am I the only one, that thinks snowflakes are for the entire winter? My mother-in-law just sent me this picture. And it has me dreaming of a window, decorated with these snowflakes. :)



I grew up in the mountains. And I'm used to months of snow. Now just a random day or two. Oh, if I could just find a snowflake pattern. And this thread. I'd get started right now. There's something very "vintage" about these snowflakes. Something playful. And oh so fun! I wish I had a bunch, to make into a garland.

~Manders

A Christmas Creed

A Christmas Creed

I believe in Jesus Christ,
and in the beauty of the gospel begun in Bethlehem.

I believe in the one whose spirit glorified a little town;
and whose spirit still brings music to persons all over the world,
in towns both large and small.

I believe in the one for whom the crowded inn could find no room,
and I confess that my heart still sometimes wants to exclude Christ from my life today.

I believe in the one who the rulers of the earth ignored,
and the proud could never understand;
whose life was among common people,
whose welcome came from persons of hungry hearts.

I believe in the one who proclaimed the love of God to be invincible:
I believe in the one whose cradle was a mother's arms,
whose modest home in Nazareth had love for its only wealth,
who looked at persons and made them see what God's love saw in them,
who by love brought sinners back to purity,
and lifted human weakness up to meet the strength of God.

I confess my ever-lasting need of God:
The need of forgiveness for our selfishness and greed,
the need of new life for empty souls,
the need of love for hearts grown cold.

I believe in God who gives us the best of himself.
I believe in Jesus,
the son of the living God,
born in Bethlehem this night,
for me and for the world.

Recently, I found this Christmas Creed. I printed it out, and placed it in a beautiful frame. On our mantel. I wanted to share it with you. In hopes, that it might speak to your soul too.

~Manders

If Only...

If only I had thought of this idea. At least a few weeks ago. Or at the very least, seen this picture. It would have made me, and some sweet little girls, very happy!



Yes, 5 days before Christmas, I find this picture. Actually, my sister-in-law sent it to me. I would have loved to make little food for my girls. But I'm just not that good at crocheting...not yet anyone. To make this in 5 days. So I will save this picture. And tackle this at a later day. Maybe for my girls' birthdays. If only, I'd had this a month ago...

~Manders

Illegal Length Mascara

I have to say, I'm a sucker for a new mascara. But a few weeks ago, even I surprised myself. Why? I'd been hearing a lot of stuff, about Maybelline's new mascara. So when my little box showed up, I was over the moon! What did I find inside? This little beauty...



I'm not a big "lengthening mascara," type of girl. No. I'm more about the volume! Give me some big lashes please. :) But when I'm doing makeup for clients, there is sometimes, a need for lengthening mascaras.

Illegal Length is not just your normal mascara. Nope! It has fibers in the formula. Which is supposed to help add length. Hmm. I wondered if this would really work. Or would I have fibers all over my face. I will say this, I was pleasantly surprised.

Not only did I try this mascara, I had my sister try it out too! This is much more "up her alley." She insists that her lashes are short. That I got the good lashes of the family! I don't believe her. I just use, many different mascaras, to get the look. A year or so ago, she was devastated, when Maybelline discontinued their lengthening mascara. No lie!

We both tried Illegal Lengths, for 2 or 3 weeks. And we were very surprised. First of all, those fibers, don't shed. Not one bit! I never have fallout. But they do add so much length! I don't worry about smudging, or raccoon eyes. The formula is pretty wet. Which allows for building up the lashes. Without turning into "spider eyes." I'm not a fan of clumpy looking eyelashes.

The wand is similar to that of the Falsies mascara. Except it's straight, not curved like the one in Falsies. The bristles are all angled in different directions. Which allows the wand to grab at your eyelashes. This is helpful during application. Because you can manipulate your eyelashes. Making them look as though, you've curled them. When you haven't!

Illegal Length is a really great buy for your money. It's a good mascara. Similar to many of the "High end" mascaras, currently going for $25 a tube! This is one of those products, that I didn't have too high of hopes for. But it has completely shocked me! In a GREAT way. I'll keep a tube for myself. For my bottom lashes. And you'll definitely find a tube in my case!

~Manders

Did You Say Hello Kitty???

Just the other day, I ran into Wal-Mart, for a few things. And to my surprise, they had this HUGE display of Hello Kitty items. Abby was so intrigued by them. She kept her eyes glued to that display.

When we got home, and I was making dinner, she came into the kitchen. To tell me all about the Hello Kitty stuff. Describing everything to a T! And she really wanted a hat. The one with the kitty face, and big pink bow. When Billy got home, she told him, exactly what it looked like.

That night, after the kids went to bed, Billy headed back to Wal-Mart. And he couldn't find it. He actually went to the 2 stores nearest us. No luck! So I called my sister, and asked her to keep her eye out, for the hat. In fact, the next day, she went looking for it. Yet again, no luck!

Billy had some business stuff to work on, so he headed to the larger city, near us. And ended up, going to all the Wal-Marts in town. The very next day! Still no luck! I called friends, and family. Nothing! Just my luck. The one thing that Abby wants, and I can't find.

Lola recommended that I try to crochet one. I had honestly never thought of it. So I began my task with Google. And I came up with this picture. Isn't it cute? Most importantly, it has the "Big Pink Bow," that grabbed Abby's attention!



OK, I must have some bad luck. The link was to a listing on Etsy. That's no longer listed! Boo! So I saved the picture. Consulted my dear friend. And I have a plan. Let's just hope, I can get it done before Christmas! :)

~Manders

Love This Glow

It's Fall time. And I always think of glowing candles, in the cool Fall weather. But they can also be so expensive! Well, when you're looking at the ones, that I'm looking at. :) I don't just like a good smelling candle. I like a beautiful candle. When I saw this picture, I immediately, wanted to try and make these.



What do you think? I have so many, gorgeous smelling candles. But they look pretty generic. This idea, can just take them over the top. Best thing, it's pretty much free. Who doesn't have some sticks. And hot glue! Can you tell, what I'll be working on this weekend?

~Manders

Learning

"A bible that's falling apart, usually belongs to someone who isn't." ~Charles Spurgeon




Recently, in Bible Study, this topic, quote, and picture came up. I've been going to Bible Study for years now. And I really enjoy it. I'm lucky enough to live in a small community. And the Bishop, he teaches our bible study.

The thing that I enjoy most, is really learning about, and exploring the Bible. I'm always writing little notes, highlighting, or placing sticky tabs, on my Bible. I remember when I first starting going, I was so unsure of this. Lola always used to tell me, it's OK. Actually, it's a good thing. It helps you understand better.

But I had grown up in a very traditional family. You don't talk or wiggle around in church. You don't write on the Bible. And you don't disrespect the cross. So it took me a while. Until I actually saw the Bishop write on his Bible.

Tonight, it came full circle. I've had this same Bible, for 6 years. It's falling apart. All marked up. Highlighted. Some pages are smudged. The spine is a mess! But my Bible is well used, loved, and read. I know, that this is the way it's supposed to be. I use my Bible every day. And I wouldn't have it any other way!

~Manders

Crochet Bear Hair Clips...Yes Please!

My beautiful baby girl, is all grown up. And adjusting perfectly, to school. I think the easy transition, is because Lauren is going to school with her best friend, Maribel. They're even in the same class! I on the other hand, I'm not adjusting as well.

That means, I'm trying to keep busy. Being that my daughter is in school from 7:15AM-2:15PM, every day! The twins, well they still nap for 2+ hours a day. So I'm going a little crazy. That means, I'm trying to expand my crafting. So I took to my dear friend, Google. :)



Aren't these absolutely adorable? I'm not exactly sure what they're "real use" is. Mostly because, I couldn't find the source. And this picture, is as far as I got. But it got me thinking. Lauren has to wear a uniform to school. But they're allowed to wear cute accessories, shoes, etc. I want to try and make these. And turn them into hair clips!

Don't you think that will be cute? She wears bows, hair clips, or a headband every day. I think these little bears will be perfect! I might have to call Lola. You know, to help me out. I wonder if Lola can figure it out, just with this picture. I sure hope so!

~Manders

Sew Mama Sew Giveaway Day

It's May Giveaway Day! I'm super excited about this. Again, I want to share the gift of crochet with someone. So I've put together a fun package. :)

Some crochet hooks. Yes a whole pack!

10 skeins of yarn. All colors!

And this fun book! I know a lot of people have been wanting it. I just so happen to have an extra copy!

For the rules: The Giveaway ends on May 29th at 11:59PM PST. To enter, just leave a comment with your favorite crochet book, link to your favorite crochet pattern, or a place to buy crochet patterns. That's it! Good luck!

And if you want to enter a few more giveaways, you should head over to Lola's blog, or Mrs. S, Maggie, Cari, or Anna Marie's blog.

~Manders

So Adorable!

While doing a pattern search this morning, I came across this pattern. Isn't it adorable? I think so! I was actually searching for boy hats. But somehow, the filter added this one in. :) I bought it. I figured I could use the pattern for both Lauren and Abby. I just love this look! Now I'm off to find something for my little man. :)

~Manders

Boy Crochet...Needing Some Help

My SIL recently found out she is having a little boy. We're so excited for her and my BIL. I really want to crochet something for them. But I can't find any good boy patterns. Either they are really ugly. Or too girly. Can someone help me out? I don't mind buying the pattern either. I just don't want a girly stitch. Something for a little man to wear. Thanks!

~Manders

Cherry Kisses

I know that these are "Special Edition" candies. But for the last few years, around Valentine's Day, I've seen these in stores. In fact, I usually buy a few bags. I leave one out. And put the rest in the freezer. That way, over the year, I get to enjoy these delicious candies.

But this year, I didn't see a single one! Not one. Has anyone seen them? Or are they forever discontinued? I hope not. Because these are honestly some of the best candies. Yes they are! Not as sweet as the chocolate covered cherries. But sweet enough to really enjoy. Oh, I hope I find some soon!

~Manders

Life Unexpected

Is anyone else upset that Life Unexpected was cancelled? I am. I just need to say it. Because all of my favorite shows keep getting cancelled. What are we supposed to watch? There are women out there that don't like the Bachelor. Or lots of the dumb TV shows that are out there.

You know, I think I liked this show, because it reminded me of the Gilmore Girls. A fun show to watch. Just like I liked Lipstick Jungle, Pushing Daisies, and Eastwick. Oh well. I guess the TV executives forget that some of us just like the "feel good" type of shows. Until I find another good show, I'm going to stick with watching cartoons with my kids.

~Manders

Happy Birthday Maribel

Our family just wanted to wish a very Happy Birthday to Miss Maribel! Today she is 4 years old. And if I haven't mentioned it before, Maribel and Lauren are best friends. Born just 2 days apart. They see each other at least 5 days a week. No lie! Both girls dance together, and love to spend lots of time playing together. Yes, today is a special day. Happy Birthday Miss Maribel! Love and kisses from our family!

~Manders

June Bride and Groom

Lauren just squealed in delight this morning. She woke up extra early. You know, still being on the high from her birthday and all. And she joined us in bed. While I feed the twins, I check my email, read some blogs, and always check Free Crochet and Free Patterns. This is the cute pattern that is available today!

Do I need to even tell you, we downloaded it. I'm no where near this level yet. But hopefully soon, we'll be able to get here. I would just love to make this little set for Lauren. Until then, we have saved the pattern. And showed Barbie and Ken the possibilities, for our future play time.

~Manders

Happy Birthday Lauren!

Today is Lauren's 4th Birthday! I just can't believe it. Where did all the time go? Honestly, 4 years ago, I was scared to death! Would I be a good mom? Would I know what to do? How would we handle going from a couple to a family?

But you know what? It was the best thing that has ever happened to Billy and I. 4 years ago, in Texas, we became parents. Our lives were forever changed. For the best! And we've had such an enjoyable time watching our little girl grow.

The things that I enjoy the most, are just cuddling with Lauren. She is the most loveable little girl. Crawling in her Little Pink Play House, it still tickles my heart. :) Watching Lauren play with her dolls, it just makes me think of our future. I know one day, she'll be an amazing mommy. She is just so loving.

And in the last year, while Billy and I tried to adjust to having twins, and a beautiful little girl, Lauren was just an angel. So loving to Abby and Robbie. Playing with them. Making them so happy. Reading a great book to her babies. I just love it!

This is a very special day. My sweet little girl is just getting so big! And I absolutely adore being her mommy. I couldn't imagine life without Lauren. She honestly has made me a better person. I thank God everyday for my family. And for my sweet little girl.

I just wish that time wouldn't go by so quickly. I feel like I'm not getting enough time with my little girl. But I'm honored to be her mommy. To be able to help her grow into a healthy, smart, and happy woman. I'm truly blessed. Happy Birthday Lauren! Your Mommy and Daddy love you so much. We're so lucky to be your parents.

~Mommy

Happy St. Patty's Day

Happy St. Patty's Day! Is it funny that I'm so excited about this holiday? I find now that I'm a mommy, I really enjoy every holiday. It's just so fun to get "into the holidays" with kids. I know, I'm probably a little crazy. But I'm excited about making my kids green pancakes today. And dressing up in green. It's just fun! I hope everyone gets some time to enjoy today. The twins and I are going to join Lauren at her Dance Class party. I'm thinking, this is going to be fun. :)

~Manders

Week 1: Let Our Crochet Along Begin!

Today we begin our Crochet Along. Every Monday we're going to check in. Post about our progress and our goals for the following week. And if you have any questions, please leave a comment on my post for the week, or on Lola's blog. We'll try and help you out.



Here's our Crochet Along Schedule. We're trying to allow progress over time. And still get our project done by Easter. Remember, you can join at anytime. You can also email me (MandersinLove at yahoo dot com) or Lola (SweetNightingaleSing at gmail dot com). And you don't have to follow our schedule. It's just a rough outline for all of us.

Week 1 (March 14-20): Buy supplies, print pattern, and work to Round 10.
Week 2 (March 21-27); Work Rounds 11-25.
Week 3 (March 28-April 3) : Work the handle.
Week 4 (April 4-10): Work ear #1.
Week 5 (April 11-17): Work ear #2.
Week 6 (April 18-24): Put your bunny basket together and enjoy!

I hope that we can work on this project together and enjoy! It sounds like so much fun. And honestly, I can't wait to start. I've got my yarn waiting for me to start. Is it bad that I'm looking forward to "Naptime" today? I hope not! Lola and I have received 24 emails together. So it sounds like there are lots of interested people out there. Now let's have some fun!

~Manders

Ruffled Tulip Doily

Today's pattern from Free Patterns reminds me of my grandma. She really liked doilies. Her house wasn't "overwhelmed" by them. But she would make a bunch of them. And change them with the seasons. Or I guess when she wanted new colors around the house. Because she always had different colored doilies up. Every time we'd go visit her. But I loved them! I loved how delicate and ladylike they looked. Maybe one day I'll be able to make some. :)

~Manders

Praying for Japan

My heart absolutely goes out to the people in Japan. I just can't imagine what all those people are going through right now. To lose everything. Their families, their home, to watch their country going through all of this. My heart just breaks thinking about all the pain that these people are feeling.

I pray that rescuers can get to the people that need help. I pray that the world will come together and help the Japanese. These people are going to need so much help and support. Including food and other necessary items. I feel such a pull to help. And to pray. Japan, you are in my prayers. God Bless all of you.

~Manders

Peachy Kitchen Twosome

My sister called me just a few minutes ago. She asked me if I could make these for her. It's the free pattern of the day from Free Patterns. She wants them in white. Or maybe a light blue. Why? Because our grandma always has these type of things in her kitchen. Since when does Lizzie look at Free Patterns? Not sure. But I need to get good enough to make my little sister something special for her home. :)

~Manders

Fun Crochet Patterns

Free Patterns has 4 really cute free patterns today. If you haven't guessed it, I really like their site! These will definitely go on my future project list. :)

Grand Prix Slippers: I'd love to make these for Robbie in a few years. :)

Teddy Bear Blanket Buddy: Maybe a Christmas present for my kids? I might be able to make 3 by then.

New Romance Afghan: Honestly, I like this for myself. But with different colors.

Baby Blocks Afghan and Bib: What a cute gift! Maybe if Lizzie has a baby soon! :)

I'd love to make any of these. For now, I downloaded them for later. You know, I need to start working on my skills. Crocheting is so much fun! And now that I'm getting better at crocheting, I'm starting to dream of all the possibilities. Hurry and go to Free Patterns today for all of these wonderful patterns!

~Manders

Plum Eyeliner

One of my favorite trends for Spring is plum eyeliner. I've always liked the color with my brown eyes. I especially enjoy this look for daytime makeup. The plum eyeliner is definitely a softer look than black eyeliner. Which many people say is too harsh for their liking.

Many women can't "pull off" the darkness of black eyeliner during the day. But they want a bit more drama than brown eyeliner. Other women like to try different colors to add some fun to their makeup. I find that plum is a very happy compromise. It's a splash of color. With just the right amount of darkness for daytime. And for the brown eyed ladies, it really makes your eyes "pop!"

Some of my favorites are MAC's Prunella, Sephora's Wild Spirit, Bare Escentuals' Plum, Urban Decay's 1999, Make Up For Ever's Shimmering Plum 4L, and even Revlon's Blackberry. Revlon's Colorstay eyeliners are a nice "bang for your buck." Especially if you're on the fence about colored eyeliner. I'd definitely give it at try!

~Manders

Nautical Dishcloths

I saw these dishcloths, and immediately thought of the 4th of July! Aren't they just fun? I need to find some cotton to crochet with. Because I'm absolutely making myself some! How fun would that be? If you like these, go to Free Patterns today for the pattern!

~Manders

Mary Janes

These are just too adorable! Baby Mary Janes. Oh my! I know that Lola has made some for both of my girls. But I just can't wait to crochet some for myself. Download the pattern today at Free Patterns. They are just adorable! And the pattern is free today. :) I'm going to see if I can make Abby a pair. I know that they are meant for small babies. But Abby is still pretty small.

~Manders

Teen Mom 2

As I mentioned earlier in the week, my family and I are in Las Vegas for about a week. My husband and his band were hired to work out here for a big event. And I come to do Lola's hair and makeup.

Beyond that, it's really an excuse for a fun vacation. Some time away from "real life." A little extra time to lay in bed with my babies. Oh, and some catching up on TV, while my kiddos sleep.

Cue the music. I'm catching up on Teen Mom 2. And wow! I'm not sure what else to say. So much is going on in this season. Much more than on Teen Mom.



I'm not sure why I like this show so much. But honestly, I'm just intrigued. And let's say it..."hooked!" I feel bad for Jenelle. To me, her mother never taught her how to do so many things. And never loved her. So you can't really blame her for everything that is going on. I really do wish that she'd "get-it-together" though. I think she has the ability to be a great mother. But she needs a little direction in her life.

I also feel bad for Kailyn. She has no place to run to turn. Or anyone to really turn to. She's in a horrible situation. But has no place to live. So she sucks is up. I don't agree with all the sneaking around. But I also don't like Jo's attitude and the way he feel like he "owns" her. He needs to concentrate on being a good dad and contributing to Isaac in a financial situation.

Chelsea, she just irritates me. Honestly, this is the "spoiled" kid of the bunch. She is never going to grow up because of her parents. She continuously puts herself in horrible situations. To sum it up, this girl has more problems than she knows what to do with them! I think she just needs to get a job. And needs to start supporting herself and Miss Aubree.

Of all the girls, Leah has it together the most. Corey has become a real man. Taking care of his family. They're on their way to getting married, they take care of their daughters, and they're sticking together. That's the most important part. I think a lot of that comes from the way they were raised. And the amazing support system that they have! Gosh, their parents are amazing!

Do you watch? What do you think of the girls? And their situations? Am I the only one that seems to be hooked on these shows? I know, I should be doing so much with my time. But I can't help but watch.

~Manders

Shoe Heaven!

I've been dreaming of these shoes for a while now. I've seen them on a few blogs. And one of my really good friends has a pair. So cute! I finally broke down yesterday. And I bought them! The best purchase of this trip!

I wore them last night to work in. So comfy. And really cute. I got them for $20. Because I had a coupon, and they were having a sale. Do I need to say anymore? These are a "must have!" Now let's see what else I can find to buy. I really do enjoy shopping in Las Vegas. :)

~Manders

Egg Animals

How adorable are these little guys? Can you tell? They're Easter eggs! Yes, little animals crocheted around Easter eggs. Lauren has requested 2 of each one set for her. And one for Maribel. I guess I should get started on them. Let's hope I can figure them out before Easter. If you'd like this pattern. Go to Free Crochet today, it's the free pattern of the day.

~Manders

Mini Menagerie

This has to be the cutest pattern from Free Crochet! I want to try and make a little set for my kids. 3 sets! I know that's going to take a while. But I'm sure I can do it. It might take a while. Say until Christmas? But I think they'd enjoy these little animals. Go get the pattern today at Free Crochet!

~Manders

Amigurumi Bunny Basket Crochet Along

Lola and I have been talking. And since a few of our friends know how to crochet, we thought we'd do a "Crochet-Along." Lola looked for a good project. Something easy for beginners, fun for all, and interesting enough for more advanced crocheters.

We've decided on the Amigurumi Bunny Basket from Lion Brand. What do you think? Would you like to join in?



If you would, please leave a comment on this post, or on Lola's blog. I think this could be fun! And we have a while before Easter. I'm thinking that this basket could be great for a kid. For their Easter Egg Hunt, or to have in your house. I might put candy or a plant in mine! I hope some of my wonderful readers will join in on the fun!

~Manders

Violet Rings

I really like this pattern. It's really different from the crochet blankets that you see. I really want to make this. So not only did I save the pattern, I also printed it out. Maybe that will make me start moving quicker.

But I'd definitely pick some different colors. Something to go with our den. It just makes me excited! Now all I have to do is go yarn shopping. :) If you want the pattern to, go to Free Patterns. It's the pattern of the day!

~Manders

Bunny Baskets

I was so excited to see these little baskets today! These Bunny Baskets are the free pattern today at Free Crochet. Just adorable! I've got to read the pattern. But I'd like to make one for each of my kids. I just can't help but smile when I look at them. :)

~Manders

Chloe Cap

It doesn't matter that we had a HUGE snowstorm, and SEVERE winter freeze a month ago. Today it's 80 degrees outside! I know. It sort of depresses me. Because I know, soon we won't be able to spend time outside. It gets that hot around here.

But I'm still dreaming. And I want to buy the pattern for the Chloe Cap. I should be packing. Our family is leaving soon. Billy and I are working in Las Vegas for a few days. Instead, I'm search Annie's Attic. For new and cute patterns. I really want to make this hat for Lauren. Please cold weather...return!

~Manders

Peacefully Hooked

This is Sarah. From Eternity and Beyond. One of my new favorite blogs! No lie. I've been reading for about a month.



Sarah sometimes posts her "Outfit of the Day." Which is one of my favorite posts of hers. I really do like this necklace! Too bad I can't find one like it. If you've seen one, let me know!



This is Sarah and her hubby. They are "Newlyweds." And darn cute if you ask me! Just look at them.



This is honestly one of my favorite pictures, from her blog. It reminds me a lot of a picture, that my bridesmaids and I took, on my wedding day.



Sarah is also very crafty. Look at this cute cowl she made. I just adore the color! So fun. And it looks so warm and comfy!



This is one of my favorites! I wish I could make one for myself. I think it would be extra special to crochet it myself.



And these hats, they'd be perfect for the twins. I could just see them all bundled up to play in the snow! :)



These booties also melt my heart. I'd honestly love to buy the pattern for them. Oh, it just makes me smile thinking of them!

So go check out Sarah's blog! It is so super cute! And I really do love reading her new posts. I feel like we'd be friends if we ever met. She's just a very "down-to-Earth" kind of person.

~Manders

In the Office

Lauren was so excited when she saw this pattern from Free Crochet today. Lauren is really enjoying her Barbies now. And she feels like I can just make anything! I'm slowly crocheting with yarn now. And I haven't even ventured off into "thread crochet." But I guess I should start trying. Because this is really a cute pattern. :)

~Manders

Crafty Anna Crochet Patterns

I've found my favorite Etsy shop ever! Crafty Anna! She has so many cute crochet patterns. All about $5. These toys are just adorable! I want to buy all the patterns. What do you think Billy would say?

Let's take a look at some of my favorites...

The "Play" Stuff:















The "Food" Stuff:















I really do want to buy every pattern that Anna has. I wonder if she would sell them at a deal? You know, if I bought them all at once. I think my kids would have such a great time playing with all these goodies!

Oh, and Anna also has a wonderful blog. Full of beautiful images. She posts various sales, free patterns, and just fun stuff!

~Manders