Featherweights

Interesting Pamphlet

2012-02-14T10:30:00.000-05:00

While in North Carolina, I stumbled across this gem. It is a paper booklet, published by General Motors for their staff people. I guess their HR used to have information pamphlets just "for GM Men and Women" made by the General Motors Personnel Staff. It's a pretty cool little booklet with ideas for retaining walls, and recycling household objects to create a path. It has little illustrations throughout, and was written by Harold Wallis Stack.

In this day and age, when everyone's talking about company culture, isn't it interesting that General Motors cared enough about it's employees to have a little DIY-make-your-weekend-better section?

Shop of the DAY

2012-02-11T14:55:00.002-05:00

on papernstitch!

Yahoo! It's my fifteen minutes of fame!!!!

Ballerina

2012-01-25T14:54:00.000-05:00

I went to visit my brother while in NC, and we went to the Greensboro SuperFlea, which was not as giant as I had expected. There was a guy who had lots of busts and memorabilia, and he had a dollar table. I found this awesome chalkware ballerina there. ONE DOLLAR! It was made by the Universal Statuary Company in 1950! It's sixty years old, and it's super charming.

I loved her as soon as I saw her! She'd look great in a vintage nursery, right? Her red is so sophisitcated compared to her white tutu! She's in the etsy shop, and I'll dig her until someone buys her!

One Whole Year

2012-01-24T20:09:00.001-05:00

IMG_0279, originally uploaded by feathermar.

My nephew Quinn turned one last week! Here he is in the only picture that I took where you could see
1. his face
2. his shirt (sort of - a number one I made)
3. without a weird angle where his legs looked big and his body looked teeny.
So this is his birthday picture. He is so cute, and so happy. He will bump heads to nuzzle with you. And he has jokes with his Poppa (his grandpa) that make him laugh the biggest belly laughs in the universe! I'm happy you are here, sir, for you make the world a lot sweeter!

Only the greatest boy

2012-01-13T21:54:00.001-05:00

IMG_9421, originally uploaded by feathermar.

in the whole world was born yesterday...Well, 36 years ago yesterday!

It was my bear's birthday, and we traveled down to North Carolina to see Andy's parents, my awesome in laws.

I love this man. He is the best. Happy Birthday, Andrew!

Only slightly healthy

2012-01-08T09:24:00.001-05:00

IMG_9852, originally uploaded by feathermar.

Andy made mashed sweet potatoes! Sweet potatoes are totally healthy and good for you, full of antioxidents and other awesome things! Go root veggies!
But then, he made a rue (although it didn't have flour in it, so it's not really a rue) of butter, brown sugar and cinnamon. And it was delicious. Like pie. Pie and sweet potatoes...I guess we should stick to roasting 'em.

I heart gray and red...or is it grey and red?

2012-01-06T10:51:00.002-05:00

New Treasuries over on Etsy! One of my favorite parts of the community!

Not really a resolution

2012-01-05T11:45:00.000-05:00

I got married in September. It's the beginning of January. I gained FIFTEEN POUNDS!!! What is happening?

I guess I have to:
1. Eat less ice cream
2. Craft more, snack less
3. Walk the dog doubletime. Either twice as long or twice as fast.

That's it. That's all I've got. I hope it shaves off a little. We're gonna buy a house this year, and I can't afford new pants. Ugh.

Mounted my rainbow!

2012-01-03T21:50:00.001-05:00

IMG_9803, originally uploaded by feathermar.

I got a lot of cabachon beads for christmas! I love love LOVE 'em! While thinking about the different beautiful jewelry items I could make with them, I decided to mount most of them on a blank wooden disk (that I think is meant to be a clock face). I used glue dots, so I could always pull them off to use in other things. In the meantime (I always think of "meanwhile, at the bat cave...)I can look at my gaw-a-geous beady, flowery rainbow! Love love LOVE!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-02T08:40:00.001-05:00

IMG_9700, originally uploaded by feathermar.

I've been trying to finish what I started last year! So far, I've wreathed and wrapped yarn around everything in sight! This is a little milk bottle that Andy brought me! I can't wait to get something tall to go in it! Now, off to rescue Gail from the little boy who wouldn't sleep! We're going with Papa to the bank and other adventures! Maybe she'll be able to take a nap! Happy New Year

Merry Merry

2011-12-24T11:17:00.001-05:00

001, originally uploaded by feathermar.

and Happy Happy! Tiny and awesome, this guy is one of my favorite flea market finds of all time!

It's Giveaway Day!

2011-12-12T07:03:00.007-05:00

Sew Mama Sew is hosting a giveaway day. Well, really, they are co-ordinating a giveaway day, and I am hosting my part of it...

Today, I am giving away 2 hand knit organic cotton baby hats in your choice of colors! They fit newborns to 3 month olds, and they are pretty adorable! They are made of 100% organic cotton, which is important, especially when it comes to babies, because cotton absorbs pesticides like they are going out of business.

Anyway, to enter, all you need to do is write a comment on this post with your email so that I can contact you and ask your address and what colors you want! The winner will be picked on Friday morning. Only one entry per person, please.

GOOD LUCK! And I hope you WIN!

This Giveaway is NOW CLOSED! And the winner is Katina! I will email you with your choices!

Also, receive 10% off any order in my shop when you type in the coupon code GIVEAWAYDAY, until January 1st, if you'd like to order one or more of these hats!

After you comment, return to Sew mama Sew and enter for more stuff!

Knit Bangles!

2011-12-08T10:01:00.004-05:00

I've been wanting some knitt-y yarn-y bracelets. I was looking at some patterns to knit a swatch and then sew it over a wooden bangle. And then I found out that Michaels doesn't SELL wooden bangles anymore (boo!)

So, I knit enough rows of ten stitches in garter stitch to fit around my wrist. Then I sewed up the seam to make a circle. Then I folded it in half and sewed up that seam. Last, I rolled the circle, so that the seam was in the middle of the inside and I just sort of fluffed it out. Awesome, and a great use for all of the odds and ends I have around!

I read magazines.

2011-12-06T19:56:00.002-05:00

A lot of magazines. I work in a library, and the library subscribes to magazines, and I take them home and read them when they are allowed to be circulated. I read American Craft, and Crafts and Things, Women's Day, Natural Health, Health, Better Homes and Gardens, what used to be Workbench, and sometimes People (although it's like eating too much candy...) I love reading magazines.
But my absolute favorite of the past few years has been Readymade. I loved Readymade magazine. I even subscribed to it at home! And now it's over.
Do you remember Blueprint? Oh, Blueprint, you were every thing a gal could ask for. Resourceful, adorable, with good pictures and clothes I both wanted to wear and could afford to buy. You had ideas I liked. And you were reasonably priced.
I know people talk about Domino, but I thought it was a little clique-y and snide.
Last year I subscribed to Uppercase, which was a little too art-y for me. This year I subscribed to Anthology, which was awesome. I try to subscribe to just one magazine a year, because those indie ones are expensive!
So, to sum up: I love 'em. I want 'em. But they keep disappearing on me, and I don't know if I can emotionally invest in another. What's the world coming to?

Baxter and Titan

2011-11-30T13:24:00.001-05:00

174, originally uploaded by feathermar.

hanging out, doing tricks. Baxter's showing off all he's learned from training. Titan's just waiting for his bestie to come out of the deli.

PapernStitch this Week- woot woot!

2011-11-21T11:54:00.001-05:00

For the next couple of weeks, I'll be "exhibiting" on papernstitch! Check me out! OR check out the other lovely shops there! 10% off at checkout with the coupon code PAPERNSTITCH

Pretty awesome.

Christmas is Coming!

2011-11-18T10:43:00.001-05:00

071, originally uploaded by feathermar.

And I've got a lot of vintage stuff for sale!
It has been grand fun the last couple of weeks going poking through Long Island with Kate, looking for little flocked deer for the mantle, and beautiful Shiny Brite Christmas balls.
They are flying off the (virtual) shelves! Awesome! I love to buy and I love to sell, if only I could do it full time!

Weekend Thrifting

2011-11-07T10:32:00.001-05:00

018, originally uploaded by feathermar.

Got a lot of stuff this weekend, but nothing as cool as this snack hound! I looked him up on the interwebs, and it says you put crackers in his square box, and hang pretzels off his tail! Ha! Awesome! His head and tail come off for easy storage!

Tee hee! Friday Favorites!

2011-11-04T10:02:00.002-05:00

Hey! It's me! Here!

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T11:56:00.001-05:00

IMG, originally uploaded by feathermar.

I am not wearing a costume in this picture. My sister is Smurfette. That hippie looking girl is me. That is how I dressed from 1978- 1985. But my sister's Smurfette costume, created entirely by my mom, is pretty much the coolest.

Home Grown

2011-10-25T14:36:00.001-05:00

134, originally uploaded by feathermar.

Farmer and wife. It's a cup, bowl, plate set that I find both charming and slightly creepy. But I saw them and I HAD TO HAVE THEM. Upon my (very limited) research, I have not found the lady at all, but the farmer dude is up for a nice price. They are from 1979, which makes them a year younger than this gal.

You can not help

2011-10-22T09:55:00.001-05:00

186, originally uploaded by feathermar.

but love this little Santa face!

It's holiday decoration buying time!!!! yahoo!

Short post About GETTING MARRIED! WOOHOO!

2011-10-01T10:36:00.002-05:00

I will just say briefly: Andy and I got married and it was super awesome and I plan to do a GIANT post where I talk about just how awesome it was with the details and shout outs and maybe a collage of photos or 100 million other things.

So I will just say this:

1. It was a perfect day with wonderful people, great food, and excellent music.

2. My bangs were, in fact, spectacular. Maybe even EXTRA spectacular.

3. I married the best man - heck, the best person, I have ever met and he makes me feel mushy and happy and just really really blessed.

4. Did I mention how perfect it was?

Pictured is my quilt hoop decoration along with a little bit of the fancy paperchain I made, thanks to Martha Stewart's craft punch. I think it's my papa's picture.

Luke Holds The Baby

2011-09-06T14:03:00.001-05:00

098, originally uploaded by feathermar.

Well, Luke and Christine hold the big baby! They stopped by for a visit. We ate some grilled meats ( and Pops had his first veggie burger), went for a delightful walk (led by James!) and then had some grapenut pie that Christine brought and was super duper good! Good times on this Labor Day weekend, although I miss Andy, because he's working nonstop to keep me in the style to which I've become accustomed.

In which the hurricane brings the refugees

2011-08-31T12:23:00.001-05:00

003, originally uploaded by feathermar.

come to visit! they are a people without a home - well, without power. I am grateful that all of my friends and family were virtually unscathed by the hurricane. I hope it's the last one we see, even if it is the beginning of the season.
This is my friend Quinn. He's cute, with or without electricity!

Oh, Hello

2011-08-22T17:22:00.001-05:00

1201, originally uploaded by feathermar.

Awesome pitcher. It's Swedish! Made by the Upsala Ekeby company in Karlskrona, this is the Bellis pattern. I love love love it! It is for sale in my Etsy shop, though, because I have a wedding annd life to pay for!
Love it! And have never seen anything like it!

New Treasury on Etsy!

2011-08-19T09:08:00.000-05:00

In Which There is a NEW BABY

2011-08-11T13:51:00.001-05:00

IMG_3941, originally uploaded by feathermar.

Okay, well, she's not that new - but she's new to me!
This is baby Zoe! She is the baby of my cousin Billy and his lovely wife, Lorna! They are a happy little new family! She is super sweet and also likes me very much.
I have been very slow in posting pictures because I am super sick, but I wanted to get this one up and into the world, because she is VERY CUTE!

In Which I am Almost Famous Again!

2011-08-09T09:12:00.001-05:00

I'm on the HEART HANDMADE BLOG! Awesome! Exciting! Look at me (spins in circles!)

Oh, hello tiny butterflies

2011-07-27T10:46:00.001-05:00

005, originally uploaded by feathermar.

While making some canvas art for a friend's nursery, I started to fall in love with scrapbook paper all over again.
Except I hate to scrapbook - there's too much planning and not enough stuff you can do quickly - but I do love all the punches and stickers and stuff.
So, I bought many (maybe too many) little 3 by 3 inch canvases and started to modge podge 'em! Whales and mushrooms and I wanted to make one with bunches of butterflies! This is it.
In other news: I am sick. And my bridal shower is this weekend! I hope I'm better by then!

In Which there ARe some Brooches!

2011-07-18T15:21:00.001-05:00

IMG_3517, originally uploaded by feathermar.

I'm getting ready to start making my wedding bouquet. I'm using vintage brooches to make a super bling-y flower arrangement! My dress is pretty plain, and I don't really wear jewelry, but I wanted to have no real flowers at the wedding, because I didn't want to deal with a florist. Lots of people have contributed and I have bought some over the past year, and I can't wait to get started, even though I need about 20 more. Andy's mom got a bunch for me! I recently got that big blue enamel flower for 2 bucks! It's been a grand adventure, searching and scouring for different things, figuring out if they'll go together. I'm super excited to start!

This bebe

2011-07-07T09:44:00.001-05:00

008, originally uploaded by feathermar.

probably won't eat you.
He may gnaw on your knuckles a bit, though.

Happy Birthday

2011-06-24T12:21:00.001-05:00

004, originally uploaded by feathermar.

to Baxter. Andy may have made up your birth date, but he takes it very seriously. I think that you are naughty a lot, but I still like you. Happy Birthday. Now get in your bed and think about what you've done!

Missing the Whales

2011-06-16T12:39:00.001-05:00

heather 065, originally uploaded by feathermar.

This time last year, we were on the whale and puffin tour (well, in a couple of weeks). Maine is nice, but Bar Harbor is a great tiny town. We went two years in a row - me and Kate, bringing her sister the first year and my sister the next. We went antiquing, watched movies, drank beers, and walked an astonishing amount. We went so I could see the puffins, in real life. And, during the second year, I did see them.
But we saw whales too! I had seen Beluga whales at the Aquarium, and they look more like sea cows to me, so seeing the mama and baby humpbacks were exciting! They were so big, and it was so calm and everyone on the boat was excited!
And that night we went to a bar that served tater tots. So, tater tots + beer+ whales + puffins + lots of antiques = happy happy happy.

Baby Ryan!

2011-06-13T15:32:00.001-05:00

003, originally uploaded by feathermar.

Baby Ryan Wulff! One month old! Big brother Liam has just turned the big 0-5! So, it's an exciting time around these parts. And Mr. Colin, the middle child, is talking up a storm! I'm so happy to meet my new friend Ryan and welcome her into the world! She's a cutie!

Wedding Rings!

2011-06-09T09:35:00.005-05:00

We have been shop shop shopping for wedding bands and the two things I know for sure is:

1) I know nothing about jewelry or metal or rings
and
2) Jewelry is hella expensive.

But you'll wear 'em forever, so you have to figure out what you like and what is for real and what is weird to you...and it's a lot of discussion in the very well-lit jewelry store...
So, we're thinking of these ones, made by a lady in Oregon. Awesome. Weird and awesome.

Sesame Street: ABC Song with Tilly and the Wall

2011-06-02T11:21:00.000-05:00

My nephew, James, loves to sit on a grownup's lap and watch Sesame Street songs. This Alphabet Song by Tilly and the Wall is pretty awesome - although I like India Arie with Elmo's version too!
So, watch it and be happy! Their outfits alone are enough to make you smile!

All Grown UP!

2011-05-27T12:15:00.001-05:00

068, originally uploaded by feathermar.

Lochlain and Seanie came to visit (with their parents) for Quinn's christening! Oh, they are so grown up and giantly tall - it's surprising everytime. Seaniebear is even losing his babyface! OH, boy. Time marches on! Here's Loch and Pop, goofing around a little!

In Which I am Officially a Grownup

2011-05-26T12:47:00.003-05:00

And why is that, you may ask?
Because of these three things:

1) I have to buy a mattress

2) I'm moving to an apartment with the man I am going to marry.

3) I cannot quit my job any ol' time I feel like it.

I never really WANT to quit my job. But I always liked the thought that I would survive (at least for a while) if I lost it, or if I was unhappy. Becoming more financially burdened sometimes feels like that sound at the beginning of Law and Order (Clink - CLINK!). I like my job, I do - but it was always nice to know that I could just go work in a deli somewhere and be okay.

However, I get a lot in return:
I get to spend everyday with my best friend! So, that's pretty cool! And we're moving to the beach, which will be awesome! Yays! So, good luck to me!

It's Giveaway Day!

2011-05-23T00:15:00.003-05:00

Awesome! Welcome! Today it is the big Giveaway Day coordinated by Sew Mama Sew, and who doesn't love free stuff? I'm psyched to enter for some awesome stuff and excited to send you something of mine!

Today, we have two organic cotton knit hats, made by me! These hats retail at 10/hat, though I sell them discounted in my etsy shop when you buy two! They fit size 0-3 months, and when you win, I will send you an email with a selection of colors to choose from! These are a GREAT baby gift, because even summer babies need hats! They are made with 100% organic cotton, so there are no pesticides in this item! All hats are made in a smoke free environment, and they are all made with happiness!

To enter to win, just leave a comment below. Please leave your email address, so I can find out your physical address to send your loot! Thanks for stopping by! I'm happy to ship internationally, too! Giveaway ends at midnight on Wednesday, and a winner will be randomly picked on Thursday morning! And the winner is...A Joyful Noise!!!!

From now until June 10, enjoy 10% off anything at my etsy shop, using the coupon code GIVEAWAYDAY!

In Which I am Not as Famous As My Stuff!

2011-05-17T18:15:00.002-05:00

Jenny Doh, of the Crescendoh blog, posted one of my Etsy items in her OMG! The Best of Etsy!

That's pretty awesome! I thank you!

Brimfield, Baby!

2011-05-16T06:19:00.003-05:00

I know. You're jealous. And you don't want to know what I spent...but I found some hawt items!

New Dots Pyrex Bowl! Vintage Glasware mug!

And so much more! Will update and update!

Mama's Day

2011-05-06T11:29:00.003-05:00

I know I've said it. I miss my mom.

Here she is in a parade! I like her high heels, her denim skirt, her blazer! She's awesome!

The Real McCoy

2011-05-02T12:48:00.001-05:00

001, originally uploaded by feathermar.

A Spice Delight cookie jar! Or bean jar! A great find!

Adele - Make You Feel My Love (Official musicvideo)

2011-04-30T10:11:00.000-05:00

Awesome. You know covers are my favorite. Or maybe you don't know that, but now you do!

In Which I am a Super Special Person

2011-04-26T15:11:00.003-05:00

Um, hello? I am a giveaway on Anya's Green Baby! Well, my hats are a giveaway, but I feel positively FAMOUS! Yays!
Go and look and comment and act like you like me. That would be awesome. I, in turn, pledge to say that you are my favorite whenever we meet.
(offer good for one meeting time)

And your hair looks pretty.

In Which My View is Different

2011-04-25T12:21:00.001-05:00

q1, originally uploaded by feathermar.

and maybe a thousand times better.

Oh, this bebe.
And his moose-tashe!

Fin.

Dodging the Cute Patrol

2011-04-19T16:43:00.001-05:00

147, originally uploaded by feathermar.

Because we keep getting in trouble for being tres adorables!

I know, it's gross. But I can't help it.

Mah Friend Turned Two!

2011-04-18T13:37:00.001-05:00

039, originally uploaded by feathermar.

James! He is two! That is crazy!

More about his awesome birthday party and my sister's super wonderful school bus cake tomorrow!

In Which We see the Lunar Module!

2011-04-15T10:43:00.003-05:00

Two cool things about life and libraries:

1) The library has a pass which gave us FREE admission to the Cradle of Aviation museum, where we thought James would have a great time seeing the planes and rockets!

2) The pass saved us so much money we didn't even care that we pretty much ran through the museum and James was most interested in the movie (clapped ) and the people that worked there.

Everybody stopped to talk to him, since we were the only people in the place for at least half an hour. He climbed around and me, his mama and his grandpa had a great time! Later on, I stopped at one of our local schools to read a few books for National Library Week (I'm a minor celebrity among first graders in this town). Then we had an awesome roast chicken (yeah, Gail!) and some brownies (alright, Joe!). Andy came for dinner and James insisted on saying Andy's name a billion times (good on Andy! And James!)

Also, we saw a real lunar module, and that was cool. But it looked fake and made of aluminum, which made it cool and weird at the same time - like a craft project!

In Which Dogs Fly

2011-04-07T12:48:00.001-05:00

005, originally uploaded by feathermar.

This is Baxter, the flying dog! He is a giant doofus, and loves to run these crazy circles in my papa's backyard. It is his favorite! Sometimes, he runs, or gallops (he is as big as a pony!) towards you as fast as he can and then veers off at the last second, leaving a little of his drool on your coat. He's a good boy, and as soon as he learns to listen and sit and not eat everything in sight and stop jumping on strangers - he'll be a great boy.

Birthday Past

2011-04-05T17:42:00.001-05:00

Young Gail, originally uploaded by feathermar.

I didn't say, but it was my mom's birthday last week. March 28. She would have been 72. This picture is one of my favorites, because of her braids. Gail and I used to wear braids like that every day (and I still do sometimes!). I also love the awesome embroidered shirt!
I miss her a lot - it's been almost 13 years. I wish she could have met all of the babies (now kids!) and been there with advice and squishy hugs and met my Andy and known us as grown ups.
For her birthday, we would have gotten her a bunch of stuff she didn't want, because she was terrible with her lists (we are a birthday/christmas list oriented family). She always asked for something for the house - like new dishtowels - and we'd be like, we'll get you new dishtowels on Saturday, but what do you want for your BIRTHDAY?
My pop had brought out her old pocketbook that still had some stuff in it, and it still smells the same. It has a measuring tape (who do you think taught me?) a mirror and her wallet. She maybe would have loved knitting the way that I love knitting. She liked to make stuff and fix stuff.
But I think of her always and do my best to follow what WOULD have been her advice (I hear it in my head even when it is the OPPOSITE of what I want to do!). She is remembered. She is missed.

Quinnie

2011-04-04T10:35:00.001-05:00

047, originally uploaded by feathermar.

loves the camera! Oh, Quinn, you are so big already!
He is like a chubby version of Sir James, and quite nice in his own right!

In which Noah Strikes Again!

2011-04-01T09:12:00.001-05:00

013, originally uploaded by feathermar.

I found a giant Noah's Ark! They are EVERYWHERE! This one was made by Grandad's Toy Shop in North Thetford, Vermont. You can tell it was handmade and handpainted. The ark and the little animals are on wheels!
Man, those vintage toy arks are everywhere I look, and I want to buy and sell all of them...

Organic Cotton Hand Knit Baby Hats organic cotton baby newborn infant handknit hat

2011-03-25T07:00:00.000-05:00

Organic Cotton Hand Knit Baby Hats organic cotton baby newborn infant handknit hat
are now selling on EcoBold! Awesome! Ecobold is a go-green online store that sells items for every part of your life! And I'm on it! Yippee!

In Which There is a Tiny Wagon

2011-03-22T12:34:00.001-05:00

018, originally uploaded by feathermar.

What is it about the miniature things (though this is not THAT tiny) that makes us love them so much?

Though this also fulfills my love of things to put things in, as well. It would go nicely into the tiny shopping carts I bought many of my friends when they were at Target ten years ago...

sigh. I should've bought one for myself. That shopping cart and this wagon could be best friends...

Time

2011-03-16T11:38:00.001-05:00

IMG_1643, originally uploaded by feathermar.

Well, time is a funny thing. My papa was not elected to the seat of mayor for which he had been running. It was a very long and very tense campaign with a lot of terrible moments. And now it's over. But now he will have more time. To play with James and hold Quinn and travel to visit his other kids and grandkids. Time to read a book or watch a movie or eat a giant breakfast. Now, time can begin fresh with fun stuff and none of the gigantic obligations his retired life has been full of. Now, he can party down.
And where will he certainly party down? My wedding, of course, because I am getting married in September and it is spectacularly weird to type that. The End.

A little late, but

2011-03-05T11:09:00.001-05:00

January 661, originally uploaded by feathermar.

Happy Birthday, Miss Carter! I am working on a present of a different kind for you, it is cooking in my brain!

You are six now, so you are responsible for making sure that you don't lose a shoe here and there and also you have to make sure that you know what song to sing when your sister or mommy or daddy is upset. You are very fun, and I love you.

A find! A find! Old and awesome!

2011-03-03T16:22:00.001-05:00

march 075, originally uploaded by feathermar.

It's another Noah's ark, with tiny animals. The dealer had said it was from the 40s, and it is surely handmade! The top hinges out to reveal the animals. I guess the flood got some because there are not two of each. Some are probably not from the original set. But you can love them too!

Found a new Antique Shop

2011-02-19T17:29:00.001-05:00

march 052, originally uploaded by feathermar.

Check out this awesome mini cuckoo clock I found! Me and Kate went out last Sunday to a bunch of very cuckoo and crazy estate sales (which had nothing) and then ventured out east to some of our old favorites. But one had moved! And we found it and it was awwweeessooomme! So I got some new stuff to keep and some to sell, including this very awesome five inch tall cuckoo clock!

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T14:49:00.001-05:00

IMG_8057, originally uploaded by feathermar.

Here's a card I made a few years ago! It showcases my talent for drawing stick figures of 80s action slash sitcom stars. My Ricky Schroeder and Soleil Moon Frye are pretty good, too!
Well, Happy Valentine's Day to my Bear, and all of my family, and to anyone else who might read this - though I'm pretty sure it's just my Bear and my family...
I'd give you a hug and kiss but I'm under quarentine with a virus, so I will instead give you a Valentine's day head nod. Very loving, indeed.

Hello, my friend!

2011-02-12T13:15:00.001-05:00

march 158, originally uploaded by feathermar.

Here is a NEW picture of Bebe Quinn. I have lots on my flickr. I also will tell you that he is pretty squishy and not awake very often. He is a nice baby and fairly happy.

And he likes the swing.

Eva Cassidy - Fields of Gold

2011-02-03T10:17:00.000-05:00

Though I'm not in super love with the video that accompanies this amazing rendition of Sting's Fields of Gold, if you haven't heard it, you're in for a new favorite...

In Which February is Ripe for Crafting

2011-02-01T19:47:00.004-05:00

Oh, look at my pompom garland. A little red in a sea of white. Many snowflakes, paper and real, are still spinning around here.
I do like to make stuff. All different kinds of everything. And pompom garlands are my new favorite of the minute. I guess because they are sooooo cute. And fluffy. And happy looking. And easy.
Someone else made that hawt 3d paper snowflake. I made one last year, but I messed up a sixth so it looked like The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Sad little Quasimoto snowflake...
Here's hoping that the sun comes out and gives me a little Vitamin D...

Happy Friday!

2011-01-28T13:19:00.001-05:00

January 422, originally uploaded by feathermar.

Even though I have to work on Saturday, I say TGIF. I'm hoping there's no more snow (wishful thinking, I'm sure). Things have been super static-y with the dry air inside houses, and me and James have been exchanging shocks!

Get a load of that hair!

In Which We are Totally Late

2011-01-25T16:20:00.001-05:00

January 564, originally uploaded by feathermar.

With the HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my Lochlain, the oldest of all of my nephews and nieces! He is 6! The Big Six! Supersized Seis! and I am super excited for him to have a great year!
Thanks for the invite to your very cool roller skating party! I had a great time!

In Which We Say Happy Birth Day!

2011-01-21T16:40:00.001-05:00

January 004, originally uploaded by feathermar.

This is Baby Quinn. Quinn Richard Beyrer. He was born at 8:50 AM. He is 8 pounds, 7 ounces and 20 and one half inches. He is a good eater, and though he looks cranky here...he's very nice. And also, though this is not confirmed - I think he likes me very much - like, maybe, I'm his favorite...

2011-01-20T14:06:00.002-05:00

In Which We Say Happy Birthday!

To my Bear, who is the nicest boy in the world. And makes me giggle and blush. I am very happy to celebrate your birthing day, in which you arrived!
Love you!

My buddies

2011-01-04T13:55:00.001-05:00

always sunny 137, originally uploaded by feathermar.

They have hair like teen idols. They have awesome tiny wardrobes. And despite this picture, they are pretty good at sharing. My tiny friends, James and Tristan. It was nice to play with you!

In Which We Look Towards a New Year

2010-12-30T14:06:00.001-05:00

sideways, originally uploaded by feathermar.

Things are stress-y here and crazy and everybody is tired. And things are snowy here, and nothing makes me more cranks than snow.
But here's to hoping 2011 will be a banner year! Here's to all the upcoming babies to be born, weddings to be dancing at, road trips to take and memories to make!

And maybe this year, I'll finally make a pair of pajama pants that have two legs!

In Which We Say Happy Birthday

2010-12-17T14:08:00.001-05:00

IMG_8369, originally uploaded by feathermar.

to you, Gail.
You live in a zoo.
You look like a monkey.
But you smell pretty okay, I guess.

I don't insult my preggie sister so close to her due date. She's slow, but she packs a bigger wallop. If you see her ask her to do her "big dog" impression. It's my faves!

2010-12-10T14:46:00.003-05:00

Tis the Season to Be Cranky

Seriously, sometimes I like Christmas as much as the next person. I like gingerbread, and at the library people make us homemade peppermint bark and other treats, and I make a lot of really beautiful paper snowflakes.

But taking everything out and putting up the tree and scattering the decorations in an already full house only reminds me that I have to take it down again and put it away. And then there are the gifts and the baking and the food and the wrapping and the tiredness and then it is over. I'm sure that I would love to make presents for the whole world, but unfortunately, I have to go to work, so the fun stuff - the stuff that I LIKE to do - I'll never get to do until I retire and then I probably will hate making stuff because my hands will be a mess from all the carpel tunnel.

Bah humbug. We're mortal. And uncrafty. The end.

fa la la la la la la la la

In Which We Say "Congrats"

2010-12-03T11:40:00.001-05:00

IMG_0119, originally uploaded by feathermar.

to Sarah and John! They got married last year! They had a baby this year! Welcome to the world, Baby Burns! Good luck, Sarah and John! Babies are the bestest!

2010-11-09T18:42:00.003-05:00

In Which I Attempt To Sell

Well, friends, these are my wares. Some hand knits, some baby hats, some onesies and button magnets. And maybe there weren't a lot of people at this second craft fair, but I sold a couple of everything, and met some nice Tupperware ladies, and had the experience.

It was Miss Sarah Meagher's (Mrs. Sarah Burn's) baby shower, and I missed it, and for that I am sad. But I'm happy she's having a baby! And that Tine got to play with James!

The other thing: While I was making a little elephant wall art for Sarah and John's baby boy, I realized I had some tiny canvases. And so I made this:

I know. It's adorable. I am selling it on Etsy, but I may make a billion more to gaze upon adoringly because it is just so. darn. cute.

In Which There is a Treat

2010-11-02T13:09:00.001-05:00

heather 012, originally uploaded by feathermar.

My very favorite bagpiper, James William, on Halloween! I know. I know. It is so cute that you can barely, barely stand to look. He couldn't hold the pipes and the bucket together forever, but he sure did try!
Happy November!

In Which I Make a Find!

2010-10-25T16:25:00.001-05:00

IMG_0001, originally uploaded by feathermar.

What fell into my hot little hands this week? This coloring book, never used from the 1960s. It was only 10 cents at the time! And it's about going to the zoo. Awesome!

In Which We Pick Pumpkins!

2010-10-16T12:44:00.001-05:00

IMG_7477, originally uploaded by feathermar.

James and my Pop and Gail and Joe and I went out east on Monday and picked out pumpkins! We didn't cut them off the vine or anything, because that's just not our kind of fun (not that i'm judging those who go out to saw off their own gourds or trees or what-have-you). We took a little hay ride, pulled by a tractor, which James really enjoyed watching. We aquired some very teeny tiny pumpkins. It was a beautiful day out and super fun!

2010-10-09T12:38:00.003-05:00

In Which Michelle and Ron Get Hitched!

IMG_7348, originally uploaded by feathermar.

Picture this: You're in the wilderness of Lake Taghkanic State Park. You are surrounded by leaves and fall and the smell of awesome outdoor things! And then you get MARRIED!
Well, that wasn't you, that was Michelle and Ron! And me and Andy were there and it was awesome!
The weather was perfect!

The centerpieces were handmade (origami flowers)!

The red velvet cake with vanilla (colored) icing was made by Valerie!

The ceremony was outside, wiccan and very beautiful!
Michelle didn't stay in her dress for long, but looked beautiful and happy!

We had a wonderful time!

And, for a minute...well, a couple of minutes, I really liked being out in nature!

In Which I am a Bad Sister

2010-10-06T09:20:00.001-05:00

IMG_2835, originally uploaded by feathermar.

Did you know it was Richie's Birthday? Well, it was! And I, being a bad sister, did not blogwish him a Happy Birthday!
We do birthdays BIG in my house - it is a cause for giant special celebration! This is much harder to do when everyone lives a gabillion miles away and I am knee deep in weddings and work and all of the craziness right now!
So, I am belated and humbly wishing Richie a VERY Happy Birthday that was last week and not quite the big numbered birthday that will be next year! But I have bought you a present, Richie! I am ready for your birthday celebration when I next see you!

This picture is of Richie, the terrible monster, who imprisoned a princess, and is defeated by the hugs of the Prince, Princess and Very Brave Knight.

Giant James!

2010-09-28T17:34:00.001-05:00

IMG_7162, originally uploaded by feathermar.

Here he is! The giant James! Still adorable! Still with the teen idol hair!

He can climb up on the couch himself and say my name. He is 17 months and very cool. And there's a new baby coming! I wonder what kind of big brother he will be. I think he'll be a great one!

Beanie's Birthday!

2010-09-27T11:11:00.001-05:00

IMG_5587, originally uploaded by feathermar.

Happy Birthday, Beaniegirl! I hope you have a year of excellence down there in North Carolina! Good reports, good work days and fun weekends!

You still look like a teenager to me! Happy happy!

In Which We Travel

2010-09-02T13:02:00.001-05:00

IMG_6538, originally uploaded by feathermar.

Down in NC for Johnny's birthday (old man!), we had many stay-at-home adventures, which I will tell you about later. But one super fun thing was playing Just Dance on the Wii.

Well, actually it was fun to watch everybody play, because they are doing the same dance moves and it's like watching one of those spontaneous dance numbers in musicals, but it's real life and with people you know. And you haven't lived until you've seen my brothers dance to Kylie Minogue.

2010-08-25T14:27:00.005-05:00

In Which We Coin a NEW PHRASE!

A photo montage dedicated to my brother John. Introducing:

The Photo Johntage!

Piggy Banks!

2010-08-23T19:51:00.001-05:00

heather 070, originally uploaded by feathermar.

I have a thing about piggy banks.
Well, to be honest, I have a thing about piggy banks and mugs and pitchers and tiny little odd one-offs and salt shakers without a pepper and shiny brooches and...well, I digress.

But this beauty is mine! Well, for a little while. I bought some piggy banks. They were so sad in the sun at a garage sale. But I saved her with her jaunty hat and her gold paint. She's a good girl. She saves her money! I can't walk past a face like that and not buy it. If she's not for me,she's for someone else. But I like her.

And...I bought another one while I was out. OH, piggy.

In Which We Create Our Moveable Photo Booth

2010-08-13T09:52:00.001-05:00

IMG_5824, originally uploaded by feathermar.

Cost: 12 bucks!
One awesome photo frame and everybody gets a picture! Montage to follow!

Happy Birthday to me...

In which I celebrate my birthday

2010-08-05T16:49:00.001-05:00

h5, originally uploaded by feathermar.

without actually telling you about my birthday!
Because look at all of these AMAZING SPRAY PAINT colors! Yellow! Gray! Green! Pink! Two different Blues!
Andy got me a gift card so I could pick out all my own! You know I love to spray those altoid tins! Sweet Geez Louise. I couldn't wait to try out each and every one. Then I put button magnets in 'em to sell on my Etsy! Awesome.

2010-07-27T18:13:00.002-05:00

In Which I am Reminded About the Greatest Tea in The Whole World

In May, Burns and Nat and I traversed down the coast to Chincoteague, where we met a lot of local people and saw the wild horses and made gluten free pancakes. This you knew. This I talked about.
But...what I didn't detail...what you don't know... is that we went to a real afternoon English Tea With Tiny Sandwiches and Awesome Scones.

It was at the Channel Bass Inn, and Barbara (the English innkeeper) was awesome. She made little cream cheese sandwiches, and really delicious ginger scones and told us stories of her Friesian exhubs, whose name was "Fokker" and you can imagine how hilarity insued.
Then we met David, her husband, who is a CHIMNEY SWEEP! No, for real!
And we shook his hand, because Burns said it's good luck!

(um, his tshirt says "Your Chimney Sweep Loves You" - awesome.)

And we may have danced around the living room a little.

And we took a tour of her gardens, which ranged from English to Japanese and everything in between. Barbara's gardens were rivaled only by her extensive collection of outdoor cats (!).

So, to sum up, if you're in the area - go hang with Barbara and David - you're in for a treat. Just don't eat breakfast - it's a three course tea!

Blast from the Past

2010-07-26T11:57:00.001-05:00

IMG_9490, originally uploaded by feathermar.

Carter, 3 years ago. Now, she has no more baby face and all little girl face.

When the Bear was very tiny

2010-07-24T12:47:00.001-05:00

Baby Sean with Grandpa's fingers, originally uploaded by feathermar.

When Seaniebear was first born, John and Bean lived here in New York. When Seaniebear was first born, Lochlain was a year and a half old. When Seaniebear was first born, I only had a FILM camera.
A lot has changed since then.
But now he is four. Happy Birthday, Seaniebear! I love you!

And I am late in blogging it.
(But I won't apologize because his dad hasn't written about anything since THANKSGIVING!)

2010-07-16T12:30:00.001-05:00

In which Z is for Zeppelin

While in Maine, perusing the shops, I did see this awesome set of blocks with a Z is for Zep wooden block. I think that's weird and awesome.

2010-07-06T18:44:00.003-05:00

In Which We Recap Some Excitement!

Katie and Gail and I went to Maine! To see the puffins, round two! We traded Colleen for Gail this year. I wanted to have them both, but the Stones keep telling me I can't always get what I want.

There it is. The great puffin. We learned that it is called "the clown of the sea." Gail was laughing while she recited that fact, but after she saw one she said, "Hey, it really is the clown of the sea!" True story.

On the boat, you stop sort of by this island with a lighthouse and a regular house on it. Then, you see the puffins far far away. Scientists reintroduced the puffins to Maine. They borrowed some from Canada, and then brought them here to mate. Next, they waited for the babies to come. Then all the puffins left, because that's what they do. But they come back to where they've mated or where they were born. Then the scientists left some kind of dummy puffins (fake, not stupid). And when the puffins came back, they thought it was safe, because the dummy puffins were there and having a safe time!

After you see the puffins, you leave to look for whales.
And guess what? We saw a mama and a baby whale and they were HUGE!

We saw them for a long time. Then we went back to shore.

Of course we wore some funny headgear...because why would you go on vacation without funny headgear?

and we ate at cool Bar Harbor places! (BA - Hah -Ba)

And saw Iron Man 2 at the Criterion!

And I got this awesome vintage Florn clock!

And this very cool orange tea tin!
Katie got some Gone With The Wind stuff. I also scored some birthday presents, which is always super awesome.
After we got home, I met Luke Healy!

Who was very suspect of me the whole time. I must say that he has a very nice round head.

Then it was July 3rd and Gail and Joe's Big Bash for Birthdays and Anniversarys and Of Course Our Nation's Independence. It's a long title for a party, for sure.

Our chocolate faced friend!

And we had a great time!

And Gail and Joe danced!

And Ed brought an island! (RIP the swan)
And I'll put together a cute kid montage for the next post! But I'm running out of daylight! And gas in my brain tank!

2010-06-15T18:32:00.002-05:00

In Which I get a New Nickname

Went to Fire Island with Cat and Shannon and Alicia and Missy on Memorial Day weekend. Was fun and hot and beverage-filled. Note: If someone offers you Sam Adams Blackberry Witbier, take it! Take it and drink it and be thank me later.
I also walked around the beach with my spray on sunscreen approaching fellow pale-ys with the superhero words of "Are you wearing enough sunscreen? You are burning! Let me spray you!" I was like the Pope Of Sunscreen - "Close Your Mouth. Let Us (S)Pray."

The next day, Andy and me went to visit some of his friends and then went to visit some of my friends.

In Far Rockaway

In East Rockaway

With this guy

And this guy

And Miss Christine!
And then it was Ed's 40th surprise party...which I missed the surprise of!

But it happened and it was fun and I'll tell you more about it when I have time...but I'll leave you with this exciting new portrait:

smiles!

2010-06-05T14:04:00.001-05:00

Picture 126, originally uploaded by feathermar.

James and my pops. Memorial Day. Jamie was running around and being a crazy person, but as soon as my dad picked him up he was all chummy and huggy and smiley.
Oh, boys.

Sometimes

2010-05-18T17:47:00.001-05:00

heather 029, originally uploaded by feathermar.

it gets a little messy.
We do like to take pictures of ourselves when it's windy and Gail smooches the bebe. The hair starts blowing and...well, we still look good.

It's hard being soooo adorable.

In Which there is a Haircut

2010-05-07T15:38:00.001-05:00

heather 011, originally uploaded by feathermar.

Gail cut the boy's hair, and I think it looks great...and I think he looks like a big boy. Crazy.

Feather's New Toy

2010-05-04T17:48:00.001-05:00

IMGj, originally uploaded by feathermar.

I recently acquired the Fuji Instax Instant Camera. I love love love it!
I want to take a gabillion pictures with it and wallpaper my life. If only the film wasn't a billion dollars.
On a side note, look at James William in his short pants. He's awesome.

Easter mowing

2010-04-24T14:12:00.001-05:00

IMG_2669, originally uploaded by feathermar.

I have been awfully sick and in a terrible way. But picture this: a few weeks ago, it was Easter! And we went to Gail's house! and there was ham! And it was delicious! And we took James outside and he mowed everything and then we went down to the schoolyard and he mowed everything else. And this is my favorite picture of that day!

2010-04-15T12:37:00.002-05:00

IMG_2801, originally uploaded by feathermar.

John and Bean and Loch and Seanie and Rich and Carter came up for Roly's suprise 40th birthday! (Happy Birthday, Rol!) Because they were here anyway, Gail and Joe threw a little 1st birthday for James - more on that later. James is having TWO first birthday parties...mostly because they have a tiny house. This weekend is Jamie's real birthday! But it was great to spend time with our little friends...even if I had the stomach typhoid and thought I was going to die on Thursday and Friday! Even if I played freeze tag and thought that was the end of me for sure! Even if I was so tired at the end of the day that the mind-numbing "Barbie and the Island Princess" wasn't the worst possible thing to watch. Even if I couldn't eat the cool baseball cupcakes.

2010-04-03T10:04:00.003-05:00

Where We Go To The Zoo!

Gail and Joe and James offered to take me to the Central Park Zoo to see the puffins for my birthday! That was in August, and with my terrible summer schedule and their school starting...well, March is when our trip came to fruition.
Wednesday we took the train in to the city and went to the zoo! After many subway elevators that smelled delightfully of urine, we were strolling around the city with a curious baby.

We got there just in time to see the Sea Lions feeding, where they put on a little show.

James was not so interested in the sea lions, but he did like watching all of the big kids running around.

These are the tufted puffins, which look different than I thought they would. James has this stuffed Noah's arc that has tufted puffins and I thought they were crazy looking fake birds from some crackhead toy designer. Turns out I was wrong.

James liked the sheep in the petting zoo.

Joe liked the giant cow...or bull...I'm not sure - I didn't look!

At FAO Schwarz, James found a toy he liked

a little rubber ball! He didn't even look at the jungle of stuffed animals in the front! He crawled around chasing his rubber ball, looking at the outlets they have in the floor and checking out the wheels on his stroller. He wasn't really interested in the rest...
While we were running around checking out how crazy awesome everything is...

James fell asleep.
We made our way back to the LIRR, and James eventually woke up.

He pretty much entertained himself

by staring

at all the crazy people on the train.

And we had a great time! Thanks for my birthday trip, Gail and Joe and James! It was superfun!

He walks a lot

2010-03-30T19:12:00.001-05:00

heather 143
Originally uploaded by feathermar

My friend James is a walker now. With shoes and everything.