The Sound of Summer

Friends, you know that when I love something, I mean really love something, I pretty much can't stop talking about it.  Like Starbucks and Silhouette Cameos.  And I've recently added something else to my list. Tailor & Stylist.  It takes a lot to get on my short list, but they've done it!  So far, I've gotten three of their dresses, and I absolutely love them.  First, I got the High-Low Maxi, which I had fun styling five different ways.  Then, I got the Sweet Serendipity, which had a fabulous 50's retro chic flair.  My most recent aquisition is this Sound of Summer dress, and it has a totally different feel!

Kiwi Crate: Summer Discovery Series

Ok, friends, how many of you have little people in your house who are home for the summer and already saying, "What should I do?  I'm bored!"  My Little Crafter is one of those kids who thrives when he has lots of fun hands-on activities to do all day long, but sometimes this Artsy Mama just runs out of ideas.  So, both of us were super-excited about this sample Kiwi Crate we received in the mail.  If you've never heard of Kiwi Crate before, here's a quick description of what they're all about:

Sweet Serendipity Dress

How many of you love wearing dresses?  I have a few friends who absolutely hate dressing up, but as for me, I love looking and feeling girly just about all the time.  In the spring and summer especially, I'd rather wear a skirt or a dress than anything else, even if we're just running errands around town or heading to the library for story time.  

A few months ago, I had the opportunity to introduce you to one of my favorite new sponsors and a great source for stylish dresses, tops, skirts, and accessories, Tailor & Stylist, by showing you how I styled their High-Low Maxi Dress five totally different ways.  I was incredibly excited when they offered to send me a second dress to review and share with you how I styled it.

The dress I chose is called the Sweet Serendipity, and it does live up to its name!

DIY Photo Wrapped Canvas

Friends, I can't wait to show you one of the things I made hubby for Father's Day!  {Here's hoping he behaves and doesn't come peek!}  I am crazy-excited about this!  Here it is...

Yup, you read that right.  A gorgeous wrapped photo canvas you make yourself at home!

Bosley Goes to the Beach: Book Review and Giveaway

Some days, I look at Little Crafter and can't believe how big he is.  It seems like just yesterday that he was a tiny baby in my arms, and now look at him!  He's learning to ride a bike.  He's learning to do more and more things independently.  And he's learning to read.

Mikarose Review and Giveaway

Hey, friends!  How many of you love fashion?  How many of you like finding cute spring & summer styles that don't cost way too much money or show way too much skin?  Today, I'm excited to show you a few of my favorite dresses from the Mikarose Spring line.  There are so many options to choose from that I had a hard time deciding which one I wanted to review.  I finally chose the Ellie dress because it looked lightweight, comfortable, and the ruffle would be a fun touch if I wore it while dancing!

Here it is on the model.  I really wanted the Coral Rose version, but it was out of stock, so I got the pretty Egyptian Blue instead.

The Ellie

"Got a Minute" CD Review and Giveaway!

Hey, friends!  Raise your hand if you have young kids or grandkids.  If that's you, then you are probably all too familiar with the feelings that come with most of the children's music out there these days.  You know, that feeling that wells up inside you as you're listening to it that makes you want to scream, hit random objects, or hurl yourself out of a moving vehicle. ;)  But despair no more, I have wonderful news for you.  There's a band called Milkshake that's about to change everything.

Milkshake began in 2002, when Lisa Matthews and Mikel Gehl, members of the Indie Rock group Love Riot were inspired by the birth of Lisa's daughter and Mikel's son to create a new kind of kids' music.  Five CD's and a Grammy Nomination later, Milkshake is known around the country for their energetic pop-rock style that kids as well as their parents enjoy!

Honest.

I speak from experience.

DIY Ombre Bangle {with a Secret Valentine Message!}

Hey there, friends!  How many of you like jewelry?  How many of you like DIY projects?  {I know most of you fall into one of those categories, if not both, like me}!  Today, I have a project to share with you that I'm super excited about because it meets my "big three" requirements for my favorite kind of project:

1. It's QUICK!  {All of you with kids under 5 know why this is vital}.

2. It's EASY!  {I like projects that anyone can do, even if they don't feel "crafty."}

3. It's INEXPENSIVE!  {Need I say more?}

Plus, this one is also fashionable and can even be holiday-festive, either for yourself {yes, please} or to give as a gift...or both!  Are you ready?  Here it is...

 Like it?  I sure do!  I can see me wearing this everywhere!  Here's the lowdown on how I made it and you can too!  You can replicate it exactly or do your own thing.  Not a fan of pink?  No problem, just substitute your favorite colors instead!

MATERIALS:
- unfinished wooden bangle
- acrylic paint in three colors {I used a dark pink, light pink, and red}
- Mod Podge Outdoor Finish and Super Glossy Finish
- paintbrushes
- painter's tape

FYI:
My bracelet is from Banglewood Craft Supplies; this is a size small slender bangle.  I love that they come in different diameters because I have super-small wrists and when I try buying bangles in the store, they sometimes want to fall off, especially when I'm dancing.  Once I had a bracelet fly off in the middle of giving a lesson on arm-styling.  Not good.  But that's another story...
Anyway, stay tuned for a giveaway from Banglewood later this month and to see how I decorated the other two bracelets Tiff sent me!

The word beloved was an instant choice for me because it means a lot in my life.  First of all, my name, Amy, comes from the French ami, which means...you guessed it, beloved!  It also reminds me that I'm loved by my parents, who chose the name, my husband, who chose me as his partner in life, my son, who says he loves me to the moon and back a hundred million times, and by God who has known and loved me since before my birth.  I like having a secret little reminder of that on my arm; I think it'll come in handy if I'm having a tough day or get down on myself.

Ta da!  Once the Mod Podge dries, it's ready to wear with your favorite outfit!  Wear it with red, with pink, with a contrasting color, with white, or with black!  Yay!

For the record, this one is mine {all mine!!}, but I also think these would make sweet Valentine gifts for your best girlfriends.  Pair it with a cute little printable like, "There's no getting around it, I love you!" or "You're an all around fabulous friend!"  I don't know anyone who wouldn't love a gift like that!  Well, except for my girl Erin, because she hates pink.  Weirdo. ;)  I heart you, Erin!  Anyway, it's the perfect gift for all the non-pink-haters in your life.  And for them?  Make blue.

Hugs and Glitter!

Review and Giveaway: Inspired by Family Magazine

Happy Tuesday, friends!  Today I'd like to introduce you to a great resource, the Inspired by Family digital magazine and website.  My bloggy buddy Mari is the founding editor, and both the digital issues and blog are filled with all kinds of great craft ideas, tips about finances and family life, recipes, and other fun content I think you'll enjoy. 

Mari's motto for this summer is "A Simple Summer".

She says, "We have packed our Summer online digital publication with simple and creative ideas, recipes, kid crafts, tips and tricks, outdoor entertaining... to simplify your summer!"  So, stop on over and check it out! 


To help celebrate the summer edition of the Inspired by Family Magazine, The Hollie Rogue is giving away one of their beautiful vintage necklaces and Fadeless Memories is giving away one of their priceless heirlooms carved prints. They take your special photograph and individually carve it into acrylic so they last a lifetime.

Rafflecopter will walk you through the giveaway.  Good luck!

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Happy Girls Hairwear: Review and Giveaway

I always get excited when I get the opportunity to tell you about someone's shop and offer you cool free stuff, but today I'm extra-excited because I actually know the fabulous gal behind Happy Girls Hairwear!  In real life!  She's an actual real friend of mine from high school; we were in showchoir together {altos are the best}!  Anyway, I recently found out about her new business venture and thought her hair bows are so cute that you all might like to see them too.  She graciously agreed to give one away to a lucky reader, so be sure to get your entries in at the end of the post.

Here's what Keara has to say about her business:
I Love making little girls HAPPY! All of my pieces are handmade with love. Please don't hesitate contacting me with any questions you may have! All of my pieces are hand sewn and hot glued and are very secure. I also heat seal all of my ribbon to prevent fraying. Custom orders are always welcome! I have been very blessed to have been introduced to the wonderful world of handmade hair accessories! It is so much fun to create special pieces for newborns and little girls. I have a very supportive family which is extra special! I am truly a HAPPY GIRL! :)

Take a look at some of these adorable bows and headbands!
This first one is just perfect for the 4th, isn't it?

How adorable is this?!  I have no words...aah!

This is the "Party Bow"!  Loving all the fun colors...it would match everything!

This one is pretty special, the Autism Awareness Bow.  Keara donates a portion of the proceeds from this bow to Autism research.

There are a ton of other options on the Happy Girls Hairwear Facebook page, and Keara also accepts custom orders.  To order a bow, you can contact her via Facebook or via email at kearapeterson@gmail.com.

As I mentioned earlier, Keara is offering one lucky reader the bow of your choice; how fun is that?!  Even if you just have little boys like me or don't have any kiddos at home, I'm sure you can think of a girl who would enjoy one of these.  I can think of several of Little Crafter's gal pals who would sport one of these quite adorably!  Rafflecopter will walk you through the entry process; good luck!  And thanks, Keara, for the great giveaway!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

KatieDidIt: Shop Review and Givewaway

One of the things I really enjoy about the blogging world is seeing the variety of different and fantastic things other folks make...and when I get to share them with you, along with free stuff, well, it's even better!  Today, I want to introduce you to an almost brand-new Etsy shop, Katie{Did}It that I think you're going to enjoy!

 

My favorite thing about Katie's shop is how many different kinds of things she has to offer.  Take a look at just a few of her creations:

Katie's Couture Headband

Fourth of July Wreath

Chalkboard Bottom Wine Glasses

Photo Canvases

See what I mean?  There's such a variety of things to choose from!  And today, to celebrate her shop opening, Katie is generously offering one reader $20 credit to the Katie{Did}It shop. 

Rafflecopter will walk you through the entry process.  Giveaway closes July 1st.  Good luck, and thanks, Katie!

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Sweetest Memory: Review and Giveaway!

Happy Monday, friends!
One of my favorite things that I get to do here on the blog is introduce you all to each other.  I love getting to spotlight shops and blogs I enjoy so that you can visit and enjoy them too.  Today, I want to introduce you to Kari from The Sweetest Memory...and offer you a fun giveaway from her shop!

Here's a little about Kari, in her own words:

"I have a passion for all things with good design.  As an interior designer, wife and mother I incorporate this philosophy in my work and personal life.  The

Sweetest Memory started as a creative outlet and it has grown to be an Etsy shop and blog.  I have been so amazed at all of the wonderful blogs and creative talent out there.  I hope someday I can be a resource for others to turn to for

projects and inspiration.  My shop consists of vintage items, handmade goods and is collaborative.  I have guest artists who join me to offer a better variety to customers.   It is a lot of fun working with them.  I have most recently started

creating bridesmaid clutches for weddings, and iPad cases. I enjoy doing custom orders and helping you bring your ideas to reality.   Thank you so much for participating in my giveaway and thank you One Artsy Mama!"

— Kari, the Sweetest Memory

One of my favorite things about Kari's shop is the fun variety of items she offers.  Take a look at a few of my favorites:

Felt iPad/Kindle Case

Flower Clutches

Dress-up Capes

Travel Bags

...and much more!
Today, Kari is offering one lucky reader
a custom two flower clutch! 
The winner gets to choose the colors for these gorgeous shabby roses!

Ready to enter?  Rafflecopter will walk you through:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good luck!
See something you like in Kari's shop?  She's also offering One Artsy Mama readers a 20% discount on any purchase with the code
OAMTHANKS20.

Happy Crafting!

Cutting Edge Stencils: Review and Giveaway

I am SO excited today, friends! 

Yesterday, this little blog hit a major milestone...1000 GFC followers!  {Not to mention all of you who follow via Linky, blog lovin' and email!}

I wanted to do something special to celebrate.  A few weeks ago, I got in contact with the wonderful folks at Cutting Edge Stencils and asked them if they would be willing to let me host a review and giveaway for their fabulous products...and they said YES!! 

I got to pick out what stencil I wanted to try {which was a tough decision because they're all so fun}!  I decided on the Cassablanca Craft Stencil, size small, which is the perfect size to use on canvas, pillows, and furniture.  They have the same pattern available in Medium Craft size, as well as an Allover stencil that's great for on the wall.  Last Saturday, my stencil arrived, along with a stencil brush and a small roller.  I almost immediately ran to get a 12x12 canvas I had in the craft room and got started on this...my first stencil project!

I painted the entire canvas a light turquoise, then mixed a custom darker turquoise color to stencil on top.  I used painter's tape to secure the stencil in place, then got to work.  I learned that it's important not to have too much paint on your brush when you're working {my bad!}, but otherwise I found it pretty easy.  I had to move the stencil one time in order to cover the entire surface of the canvas, but it was simple to line up and you can't tell where I did it.  If you're a stenciling novice, Cutting Edge even has helpful how-to videos to get you started.

It was perfect timing, actually, because I've been wanting to "spring-ify" my dining room.  I was looking for a cheerful tablecloth, but couldn't find what I wanted.  Instead, I found some fun turquoise placemats and a canister on clearance at Target to add a pop of color to the room.  I put some silk hydrangea in the canister for a centerpiece, and was really liking the effect, but the room still needed something.

Stenciled art, of course!  Ta-da!  A cheerful, springy dining room just in time for the new season.

Once I finished that first project, I was hooked!  I made this canvas for the front hallway.  I traced the wooden bird from my spring wreath and freehanded the branches.  Meanwhile, if you like birds and branches, check out this Cutting Edge stencil...love it!

Want to know my favorite thing about Cutting Edge Stencils?

It's not that their stencils are easy to use {which they ARE!}

Or that they have so many fun designs {which they DO!}

Or that the products arrive quickly {which they DID!}

Or that they're reasonably priced {which they ARE!}

Or that the stencils are so versatile {which they ARE!}

Or that you can reuse them forever {which you CAN!}

It's that they even thought of Little Crafter.

Yup, that's right!  Not only did they send me my stencil, brush, and roller, they included two surprise stencils {complete with smiley face stickers} just for the little man; a frog and a sea monster.  He took to it like a fish to water...look at him go!  And hey, if Little Crafter can do it, you can too!

He is obsessed.  Now he and I have the same problem...we want to stencil everything in the house that doesn't move.  I already have plans for a filing cabinet hubs brought home from work and the old yucky vanity in our master bathroom...look out, house!

Now, here's the good news for you!

Not only did Cutting Edge Stencils want to let us try their great products, one of you gets to try them for free too!  One lucky winner will get to choose your favorite stencil, up to $50 in value!  Rafflecopter will walk you through the entry process!  Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway