PiaTillys Boutique

TINK-a-licious!!

2010-04-14T15:36:00.003-05:00

Do you have a Tinkerbell fan? Are you headed to Disney? Then this set is perfect for your little one! :)

Click HERE to check it out!

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Sweet Hula Girl

2010-04-02T20:38:00.003-05:00

Wow, I can't believe how long it has been since I listed! Life's been busy around here. Anywhooo, I just listed this sweet luau set on ebay. I absolutely LOVE this set! There are so many adorable appliques on both the skirt and halter top alike.

Click HERE to take a peek!

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HOPE for Haiti

2010-02-27T17:44:00.002-06:00

I just listed this sweet peasant twirl dress, which will be re-created in sizes 1-5. I only have enough of this fabric left to re-create this ONE time. 100% of the proceeds will be donated to the American Red Cross to help the victims of Haiti.

Click HERE to get this great dress and help out an amazing cause!

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For Emily's Family

2010-02-27T16:04:00.004-06:00

I listed this sweet outfit on Ebay last night for the first Helping God's Children Launch, where 100% of the proceeds will go to precious little Emily's family to help with a very small part of their financial burden of medical expenses. Please keep her family in your prayers!!

Click HERE to go help out this amazing family (and get a cute outfit too!)

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3 Generations

2010-02-25T17:25:00.005-06:00

My daughter had a Rodeo Party today at school. The skirt and vest she has on was my mom's when she was a little girl, and then I wore it when I was little too. Now it's my daughters turn to wear it- how cool is that?!?? It's such a sweet set, I absolutely love it- and of course, she looked adorable in it! I appliqued a "giddy up" tee to put under the vest and she was ready to party!! :)

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Happy Holidays!!

2009-12-28T22:50:00.006-06:00

So, with everything that's been going on here lately I wasn't able to get a picture of all the kids together earlier. I tried the other day, but with 3 kids (1 who is ALWAYS dancing and singing at the top of her lungs, 1 trooper who was not feeling well, and 1 VERY ornery 15 month old), well, let's just say it didn't go too well, lol! These were the best 2- now I know what you're thinking..."those were the best??" Yes! And since it was only a couple days before Christmas, I didn't have time to re-try, so this is what everyone got in there cards this year. :)

In this one, my son in natural form...with one thumb always in his mouth. And though it looks like my oldest daughter on the left is laughing, she was really singing while rocking back and forth:

And my son is always laughing while running the opposite direction while I try to take his picture (I told you he's ornery), so here his sisters are trying to hold him back for me. Meanwhile, my oldest is STILL singing and dancing:

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas!! :)

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Craziness...

2009-12-08T17:16:00.011-06:00

OK, so I was planning on getting some things made and listed last month, but once again things went awry and I just wasn't able to get around to it. A little insight into our crazy family life the past 6 weeks...oldest daughter gets the flu, younger daughter gets the flu, oldest daughter gets a double ear infection, hubby and I both get sinus infections, my son gets the flu, and finally this past week my younger daughter ended up in the hospital with pneumonia...YIKES!!! We have spent more time these past months at the doctors/hospital than we have the past few years combined! It's been insane, but it seems everyone is finally starting down the road to recovery. My oldest daughter is back at school, after missing a total of 3 weeks in November alone. UGH! So hopefully this is all behind us and the New Year brings our family some much needed healthiness! I hope you and your families are all healthy and well!!

My poor baby on December 1st in the ER (only 6 days before her 3rd birthday)...

And the day after we got back home from the hospital, SNOW..in Southeast Texas!! This was only the beginning of it, it snowed the entire day~ it looked so pretty outside!

Soooo...I have lots of ideas floating around in my head (as usual) and I cannot wait to get to them! My fabric stash is just begging to be cut into! So I promise to have some fresh new designs coming in the New Year! Check back soon! :)

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Cranberry Sauce

2009-11-25T20:49:00.006-06:00

I love, love, love cranberry sauce. I never used to...actually all the way up until just a few years ago...but now, I LOVE it with turkey!! I think it's my husbands homemade sauce he makes every Thanksgiving!! :) And I must admit, it has to be homemade- I still do not like the canned stuff, it's just not the same. I found this recipe this year on SAVORY SWEET LIFE and I can't wait to taste it tomorrow. I'm hoping the brown sugar and orange juice added to my hubby's already scrumptious cranberry sauce just makes it that much sweeter.

Mmmmm....does that look good or what?!?? Did you click the link above to get the easy recipe?

WISHING YOU A SAFE, HAPPY, HEALTHY THANKSGIVING!!!!!!

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Back Soon...

2009-11-01T12:08:00.005-06:00

I had to take some time off from the boutique world the past couple of months, but I plan on breaking the sewing machine out again soon, it's been collecting way too much dust. I may be able to only get 1 outfit done this month, but that's better than nothing right?? So keep a look for it coming soon!!

In the meantime, here's a picture from halloween last night, we just hit a few houses on our street, but they still had fun. Raggety Ann, Strawberry Shortcake and "stinky" (as my husband has called our son since he was just a baby- I don't know why- but I couldn't resist this perfect outfit for him).

Fingerprint Friday

2009-09-25T08:55:00.007-05:00

My youngest baby on his first birthday last week. He didn't care too much for the cake itself, but boy did he like the frosting!!!

There is a song by Steven Curtis Chapman that says:
I can see the fingerprints of God
When I look at you
I can see the fingerprints of God
And I know its true
You're a masterpiece
That all creation quietly applauds
And you're covered with the fingerprints of God

So look around you and see where YOU can see God's fingerprints. Is it in nature? Kids? Animals? Where do you see them? Here's how to join in.

1. Blog with your interpretation of God's fingerprints.

2. Be sure to link so others can find the entire list of participants! Go to PamperingBeki's blog to add your link to the list of participants.

Fingerprint Friday

2009-09-18T15:25:00.004-05:00

With all the rain we've been having lately, "Smurf villages" (as my kids call them) are popping up everywhere- in the lawn, the flowerbeds, the flowerpots. They're actually getting to be quite an annoyance! The other day from the kitchen window I spotted something in the flowerbed out of the corner of my eye. I had to go investigate. But as I got closer- Oh, it's just another "Smurf village"! I continued to walk towards it and take a closer look. They're actually pretty cool looking and it made me realize that sometimes I need to just slow down and enjoy all the little things in life- even these crazy little annoyances!

There is a song by Steven Curtis Chapman that says:
I can see the fingerprints of God
When I look at you
I can see the fingerprints of God
And I know its true
You're a masterpiece
That all creation quietly applauds
And you're covered with the fingerprints of God

So look around you and see where YOU can see God's fingerprints. Is it in nature? Kids? Animals? Where do you see them? Here's how to join in.

1. Blog with your interpretation of God's fingerprints.

2. Be sure to link so others can find the entire list of participants! Go to PamperingBeki's blog to add your link to the list of participants.

Almost ONE!!

2009-09-16T10:15:00.017-05:00

I haven't posted pics of my little guy in quite some time, and with his first birthday just around the corner (4 days to be exact) I thought I'd give an update. He took his first step at 10 months old, and it took 2 weeks until he was actually walking with no crawling anymore! And as they say, the rest is history, there's been no stopping this kid...

Mmmm, can't beat the taste of a little plastic, rubber and dirt all mixed together! :)

He's always smiling, laughing and being silly!

He fell (actually it was thanks to his older sister) and got a boo-boo on his head as well as a black eye, the poor little guy! It didn't slow him down much though!

Dress-Up Days

2009-09-15T10:25:00.015-05:00

Pretty much everyday is dress-up day at our house. When my girls aren't in their skivvies, they are either in a princess dress (Snow White, Cinderella, etc.) or in what they call their fancy clothes...

Gimme some sugar baby!!

Being fancy is tiring work...

Some days they think Jaxon needs to be a little fancy too!

And some days they just get plain old silly and put everything on that their little hands can get a hold of...meet the bag lady! :)

Fancy Feathers

2009-09-10T00:27:00.003-05:00

I have this sweet set listed on ebay right now. It includes the top and wide-leg pants that can be made in capri or full-length. I can also make a coordinating peasant top to go underneath for the cooler climates if interested.

Click HERE to see the auction!

School Time!!

2009-09-02T23:32:00.009-05:00

My girls both started "School" on Tuesday. Sophia's in pre-school 4 days a week and Natalie (whose not even 3 yet) started a Mother's Day Out Program 2 days a week. They were both so excited to wear their backpacks (Sophia has all the princesses on hers and Natalie has Tinkerbell), they were being quite silly that morning.

Sophia's very outgoing and will talk to anyone and everyone, she makes friends wherever she goes, so I wasn't too worried about her. In fact, she was so excited she woke up at 6:00am and couldn't go back to sleep- she just layed in bed watching until the sun slowly started to peek through the blinds, then it was "mom, mom, the sun's coming up, it's time for school!"

Natalie on the other hand is very shy and will NOT talk to anybody. When we went to meet the teacher the week before, my leg was her best friend. I was prepared for an absolute meltdown (from both of us)...

But she was so excited that morning, and to my suprise, she walked right into the room like a big girl, hung her backpack up, grabbed a toy and went and sat down. When I said I was leaving all I got was "OK", I said have fun "OK". WOW! It makes my heart smile, I am SOOO happy she had fun!! This is what I got when I asked her to smile~

I had to pass back by Sophia's class on the way out the door. She was already settled in and coloring her first picture~

I thought I was going to be an absolute wreck that day, but it went so smoothly, they both had a blast and not a single tear was shed, from any of us! :) It was a good day!

For Bella Rose!!

2009-08-18T00:00:00.003-05:00

The girls of MemoryLane have gotten together for this very special auction. The winning bidder will receive a total of TWELVE different custom boutique Christmas pieces for your little one this Holiday season. The best part however, is that 100% of the proceeds will go to help out this sweet little angel, Bella Rose, and her family. Please click HERE to find out more!!

Silly Little Witch

2009-08-14T16:15:00.004-05:00

Some more Halloween goodness to share! I just listed this sweet little witch set on Ebay. Unfortunately I don't have enough fabric left to make another one, so this is truely a One-Of-A-Kind set and will not be duplicated! It is best suited for a size 4/5/slim 6.

Click HERE to go the auction.

"Spooky" Spider Cupcakes

2009-08-08T21:56:00.002-05:00

You will need:

Chocolate cupcakes (for the body)
Canned chocolate icing
Chocolate sprinkles (for the hair)
2 pieces of eye-type candy (we used Bassett's Liquorice Allsorts)
Clean scissors
Ruler
1 package of black string lace licorice (for the legs)

1. Frost the cupcake with chocolate icing and cover with sprinkles.
2. Press the eyes into place.
3. Use scissors to cut eight 4-inch pieces of licorice for the legs. Holding all of the legs together in a bunch, bend them in half and crease. Push one end of each leg into the cupcake as shown.
4. Check out my cute SPIDER HALLOWEEN OUTFIT.
5. Enjoy!

Some Spider-Goodness!

2009-08-05T11:14:00.003-05:00

How cute is little miss spider herself appliqued on the front of this top? I love her and you will too!

Click HERE to go to the auction!

Two for BTS

2009-07-31T23:21:00.007-05:00

I listed these 2 sets earlier today for Vendemia's School of Rock Launch:

Little Lamb

Sophisticated Punk

Click here to see more pictures!

Me want COOKIES!!!

2009-07-27T23:54:00.003-05:00

If you ask my girls what kind of treat they want, you'll always get the same answer~ crackers with peanut butter on them! They LOVE them! So imagine how excited I was when I found this recipe tonight while scouring the internet for an easy-peasy cookie recipe. It is made up of my girls 4 most favorite things ever...crackers, peanut butter, chocolate and sprinkles~ this couldn't make them any happier!! Guess what we'll be doing tomorrow???

Chocolate Peanut Butter Ritz: Place a bag of milk chocolate in microwave, add a little bit of olive oil to make the chocolate look shiny, and melt chocolate. Take two Ritz Crackers and lightly cover them with peanut butter of your choice on one side. Put the two peanut butter sides together and once they are stuck together dip and cover entire cookie with chocolate. After the Ritz peanut butter crackers are covered in chocolate, sprinkle cookies with colored sprinkles, place cookies on wax paper, and let cool.

I'm Baaack....

2009-07-25T23:34:00.002-05:00

It's crazy how dependant we are on all the new technology we have today. Having no computer for a few weeks drove me absolutey nuts- always thinking about everything I was missing out on! But I must admit, the computer is my only addiction...I'm actually pretty old school when it comes to all the new "stuff" that's out there. My cell phone is ancient and that's it, that's all I have....no ipod, no...OK, so I can't even come up with another example (heehee) I told you I was old school!

However, my hubby just got an iphone last week and I must admit, it's WAY cool and I REALLY REALLY want one too!!! I was in the store with him when he bought it and he kept trying to talk me into getting one, I said no. My exact words were "I like the plain simple style of my old phone, I would never use that stuff on there." But after seeing his in action- WOW, it's amazing all the stuff it can do and I would use some of the things I originally thought I never would. I think it's time to head back to the store, please, oh please, oh please!

PiaTillys takes you out to the ballgame!!

2009-06-08T15:09:00.003-05:00

With this adorable dress!! The little girl on the bodice is completely customizable~the winner gets to choose hair color, eye color and what goes on her hat (from your childs initial to your favorite teams logo), how cool is that!

Click here to see more!

I believe in fairies...do you???

2009-06-02T13:20:00.006-05:00

I made this sweet Tinkerbell set as part of the FCBM Deco Challenge. I had so much fun designing this one! It is loaded with ruffles, tulle, buttons, decorative stitching, petals, and of course..."poofy" fairy wings attached to the back of the tee.

Part of the challenge was to start the auction LOW with no reserve!! That's right...LOW...Only $19.99 to be exact! So head on over there ~ bid away ~ help me win this challenge ~ PRETTY PLLLEASE! :o)
Click here to see the auction. And while your there, check out the other amazing designs for this challenge by searching FCBM Deco.

And I want to send a HUGE "Thank You" to my cute little model, Hope, and her mom Carrie for the amazing photos...they did an awesome job...thanks girls!!

Recital Day!!

2009-05-17T16:17:00.009-05:00

Our little princess had her very first dance recital today and she did such an AMAZING job!!! We are SOOOO proud of her!!! She danced her little heart out to the Little White Duck song and did the whole routine! At the end she even skipped across the stage waving and blowing kisses (though she did it facing the wrong way at first~waving and blowing kisses to the back wall, but half way through she turned and faced the crowd and finished with a big kiss before heading behind the curtain!) :o)

Here she is in her duck costume before the show~

You couldn't take flash photography and I tried to take a picture with no flash, but with all the lights it just wouldn't work. But here is what the stage looked like ~

The whole class (Sophia's standing in the back row on the very left)

Good friends...They danced themselves silly....

And finally, roses for our baby...we love you sweetie!!!

Summer Breeze

2009-05-11T20:41:00.005-05:00

I listed this sweet set on ebay earlier today. Included is the cotton double-layer top with straps that tie in both the front and the back, wide-leg bottoms~in your choice of length, and the cute fabric flower clippie. Lightweight and comfortable...the perfect summer ensemble!
Click here to see more pictures!

Look Ma, No Hands!!

2009-04-29T14:49:00.008-05:00

Last week was a VERY monumental week here at our house ~ milestones were reached!! Not only did my baby turn 7 months old, he's now on the move! He's been getting around the house for a few weeks already, inchworming-it (as I call it, up-and-down, up-and-down), but last week he started actually crawling on his hands and knees. There's no stopping him now!!And, as if crawling wasn't a big enough accomplishment to conquer in one day, he also started sitting up all by himself, with no hand support anymore!! What happened to my baby??? You became such a big boy all in one day!! There's still no losing that oh-so-yummy thumb though!

He spit-up all down the front of him before I took these next set of pictures. But he was so happy sitting in the corner reading his book~

The End!

Luau Party!!

2009-04-25T13:05:00.004-05:00

I loooove this set! So many details went into it ~ including the appliqued palm tree, hut, flowers and the cute hula girl herself.

Click here to see more!

Not too miss....

2009-04-22T14:14:00.003-05:00

Want the chance to win an absolutely stunning necklace for yourself or a deserving mom you know...then be sure to head over to Take A Bow and check out all the details!

Fingerprint Friday

2009-04-10T11:01:00.005-05:00

Roses.

mmmm....springtime ~ the beautiful roses starting to bloom, the smell of the beautiful roses, the fresh colors the beautiful roses (and all the other gorgeous flowers) bring. I love this time of the year!

There is a song by Steven Curtis Chapman that says:

I can see the fingerprints of God
When I look at you
I can see the fingerprints of God
And I know it's true
You're a masterpiece
That all creation quietly applauds
And you're covered with the fingerprints of God

So look around you and see where YOU can see God's fingerprints. Is it in nature? Kids? Animals? Where do you see them? Here's how to join in:

1. Blog with your interpretation of God's fingerprints.

2. Be sure to link so others can find the entire list of participants! Go over to PamperingBeki's Blog to add your link to the list of participants.

Tropical Blooms

2009-04-09T18:18:00.005-05:00

I just listed this sweet apron dress on ebay. And the best part for you...it's at a low starting price with no reserve, YAY!Click here to get to the auction!

Fingerprint Friday

2009-03-27T12:51:00.006-05:00

Family. Papas.

We are thousands of miles away from both of our families...so unfortunately we don't get to see each other very often. We are so thankful and definately treasure the times we do get to spend with them! My oldest daughter especially loves it...when family comes to visit, she never wants them to leave! LOL!

Sophia and Grandpa...

Natalie and Papa...

There is a song by Steven Curtis Chapman that says:

I can see the fingerprints of God
When I look at you
I can see the fingerprints of God
And I know it's true
You're a masterpiece
That all creation quietly applauds
And you're covered with the fingerprints of God

So look around you and see where YOU can see God's fingerprints. Is it in nature? Kids? Animals? Where do you see them? Here's how to join in:

1. Blog with your interpretation of God's fingerprints.

2. Be sure to link so others can find the entire list of participants! Go over to PamperingBeki's Blog to add your link to the list of participants.

All for Charity!!

2009-03-26T12:24:00.007-05:00

I listed this sweet little dress for the Boutique Angels Charity launch on ebay. 100% of all the proceeds go to the Children's Tumor Foundation!

Click here to go to the auction!

And you can click here to check out ALL the amazing boutique angel charity items...and please bid away, it's for an incredible cause! :)

Sophisticated Punk

2009-03-25T13:26:00.005-05:00

I must say, I LOVE this set!! Included is the peasant top, the funky deco jeans with ruched ruffles and buttons, and the sweet ruched ruffled pin with a button center. And check out how cute that button is on that pin! :o)

Click here to go to the auction and see more pics!

Rubber ducky, you're the one!

2009-03-21T11:08:00.007-05:00

Comfy wide-leg lounge pants ~ the tee has a cute ducky appliqued on the front and the words "rub-a-dub" hand embroidered on the back.

Find it on ebay right now ~ Low starting bid!

Spring Bunny

2009-03-13T15:17:00.004-05:00

I just listed this set on ebay. Included is the hand appliqued bunny tee and the zuma pants. The auction winner will also receive a bunny charm to hook on the pants pocket as an added bonus, made by my very talented friend Jackie of *pretty*me*designs*!

Click here to see more pics!

Little White Duck

2009-03-11T22:48:00.003-05:00

Her recital isn't until May, but she got to wear the full costume to class this week to show others what it's going to look like. She looked so cute, I can't wait for the recital to get here! And yes, that is make-up she's wearing, she's going to have to wear it on stage so the lights don't drown her out, she was very excited to put the lipstick on! :o)

Under Construction

2009-03-04T21:18:00.003-06:00

Please excuse this very plain white little blog-y blog of mine...I was trying to figure out some new programs and accidentally....er....um...well, OK, I lost the the old blog layout and I'm still trying to learn how to do the make-over that is so desperately needed here. In time (hopefully in the very near future), it will all come together....sometimes I really wish I could wiggle my nose (think Bewitched) and it was completed for me....I can dream can't I?!? But since my nose doesn't seem to wiggle at all no matter how hard I try, I guess it's all up to me to actually figure out these programs...wish me luck! :o)

Yard Sale....

2009-02-17T14:09:00.006-06:00

It's time for some Spring cleaning around here, OK, so I know it's not Spring just yet, but I REALLY need to de-clutter my closets and free up some space! So over the next couple of days I will be listing quite a few name brand resell items for sale on Ebay. Many Women's shoes in sizes 8-1/2 to 9, Girls Toddler shoes ranging in size from 3-9 and Girls Clothing size 12 month to 2T, as well as some other miscellaneous items. So please check back often.

Click here to see all the items for sale.

Thanks for looking! :)

Fingerprint Friday

2009-01-30T10:15:00.006-06:00

My little man is growing up right before my eyes! This was taken at the playground last weekend while he was watching his sisters play~

I took him to the doctors for his 4 month check-up on Wednesday and he actually LOST weight from his 2 month check~not good. So we are now trying to fatten him up a bit! With that, he got to eat his first bowl of rice cereal yesterday, but he really preferred his oh-so-yummy fingers instead! :)

There is a song by Steven Curtis Chapman that says:

I can see the fingerprints of God
When I look at you
I can see the fingerprints of God
And I know its true
You're a masterpiece
That all creation quietly applauds
And you're covered with the fingerprints of God

So look around you and see where YOU can see God's fingerprints. Is it in nature? Kids? Animals? Where do you see them? Here's how to join in:

1. Blog with your interpretation of God's fingerprints.

2. Be sure to link so others can find the entire list of participants! Go over to PamperingBeki's blog to add your link to the list of participants.

Another Spring Dress...

2009-01-30T00:03:00.005-06:00

I just listed this adorable dress on ebay. It is made with 4 coordinating absolutely gorgeous fabrics and the hand-embroidered apron just adds that extra bit of sweetness to top it all off!
Click here to go to the auction.

Tropical Blooms

2009-01-28T00:15:00.004-06:00

THINK SPRING!!! This sweet apron-style dress is the perfect staple to add to her spring-time wardrobe! Comfy and practical ~ and still oh-so-cute! I love the color combo's here and cannot wait for the weather to warm up a little! I definately have spring fever, how about you?!?

Click here to go to the auction!

Fingerprint Fridays (panthers)

2009-01-16T10:26:00.005-06:00

We were fortunate enough to be able to play with these adorable baby black panthers at a zoo last summer. We just happened to be there at the right time, they were only a few days old and they don't stay little for very long! We got to hold and pet them when we first went into the cage and then they were on the run ~ these very playful "kittens" (is that what you call them?) were always on the move!

There is a song by Steven Curtis Chapman that says:

I can see the fingerprints of God
When I look at you
I can see the fingerprints of God
And I know its true
You're a masterpiece
That all creation quietly applauds
And you're covered with the fingerprints of God

So look around you and see where YOU can see God's fingerprints. Is it in nature? Kids? Animals? Where do you see them? Here's how to join in:

1. Blog with your interpretation of God's fingerprints.

2. Be sure to link so others can find the entire list of participants! Go over to PamperingBeki's blog to add your link to the list of participants.

Andalucia Listing

2009-01-13T20:39:00.005-06:00

The Boutique Andalucia Launch started today, showcasing the stunning fabic by Patty Young for Michael Miller. Here is my listing for the launch...

Click here to see more!

Fingerprint Friday

2009-01-09T11:42:00.006-06:00

I love this photo of my younger daughter adoringly looking up at her older sister. It's a sweet reminder of how she follows her all day long and does EVERYTHING the older one does. If the older takes a drink a water, then the younger one needs to as well; if the older jumps over a stick, then so does the younger ~ monkey see, monkey do! LOL! I love watching them interact with one another throughout the day, they really are BEST friends! The first thing they do every morning is give each other a hug! Now don't get me wrong, they have their fare share of argueing and fighting (usually over toys), but most of the day they are giggling with each other while playing. I hope they never lose this bond between them!! :)

There is a song by Steven Curtis Chapman that says:

I can see the fingerprints of God
When I look at you
I can see the fingerprints of God
And I know its true
You're a masterpiece
That all creation quietly applauds
And you're covered with the fingerprints of God

So look around you and see where YOU can see God's fingerprints. Is it in nature? Kids? Animals? Where do you see them? Here's how to join in:

1. Blog with your interpretation of God's fingerprints.

2. Be sure to link so others can find the entire list of participants! Go over to PamperingBeki's blog to add your link to the list of participants.

Firehouse Two-Alarm Chili

2009-01-07T19:23:00.002-06:00

I LOVE a good Chili recipe and I just found this one in a magazine and cannot wait to try it out, it says its spicy without being too hot to hurt you....Sounds PERFECT!!

Prep: 30 minutes. Cook: 40 minutes

2 lbs. lean ground beef
1 large yellow onion, chopped
1 large green sweet pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 15-oz cans chili beans with chili gravy
2 14 1/2-oz cans diced tomatoes
3 c. tomato juice
2 T. chili powder
1 T. sugar
2 t. crushed red pepper
2 t. ground cumin
1 t. salt
1 t. ground black pepper
Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Garlic-Parmesan Bread (recipe follows)

1. In a 5-6 quart Dutch oven, cook and stir ground beef, onion, sweet pepper and garlic until meat is brown and onion is tender; do not drain. Cook, covered, over medium heat 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Drain fat.
2. Stir in undrained beans, tomatoes, tomato juice, chili powder, sugar, red pepper, cumin, salt and pepper. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, covered, 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Serve with shredded cheese, if you like, and slices of Garlic-Parmesan Bread.

Garlic-Parmesan Bread: Mix 1/2 c. softened butter and 3 cloves garlic, minced. Cut a 1-pound French bread loaf in half lengthwise. Spread garlic butter on each half. Sprinkle with 1/4 c. finely shredded Parmesan cheese. Place, spread side up, on baking sheet. Bake in 350-degree oven 12 to 15 minutes or until golden.

Makes 8-10 servings.

Fingerprint Friday

2009-01-02T17:07:00.008-06:00

I took this photo last June at a zoo in Oregon where the peacocks were roaming around freely. Look at those amazingly detailed feathers, they're beautiful!

There is a song by Steven Curtis Chapman that says:

I can see the fingerprints of God
When I look at you
I can see the fingerprints of God
And I know its true
You're a masterpiece
That all creation quietly applauds
And you're covered with the fingerprints of God

So look around you and see where YOU can see God's fingerprints. Is it in nature? Kids? Animals? Where do you see them? Here's how to join in:

1. Blog with your interpretation of God's fingerprints.

2. Be sure to link so others can find the entire list of participants! Go over to PamperingBeki's blog to add your link to the list of participants.

Happy New Year!!!

2009-01-01T12:02:00.005-06:00

From our family to yours ~ wishing you a happy, healthy 2009!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!

2008-12-25T00:38:00.013-06:00

We just finished putting together the 3-story, double-sided dollhouse we bought the girls,

and I realized it is technically Christmas day, so I just wanted to be the first to wish each and every one of you a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS! I hope you have a wonderful Holiday...and please don't forget the true meaning of Christmas ~ the REASON for the Season! :)

And the stockings were hung by the chimney with care....

Our little Christmas tree the girls decorated with the popcorn we strung (and the John Deere Gator from Granny and Papa)...

The gingerbread house we made the other day, which they decorated all by themselves! I am so proud of the great job they did! Me and my husband put the frosting on, but the design was all them ~ they picked out all the candy decorations and put them on themselves! Pretty good for a 2 and 3 year old! They had such a blast, especially licking the frosting off their fingers! :) This was our first ever making of a gingerbread house, but it will definately be an annual tradition...

And though he didn't participate much in any of the festivities...

He sure was having a lot of fun...

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!! :)

Hair Clips (aka: Clippies) ;0)

2008-12-24T16:06:00.007-06:00

I just listed a couple sets of adorable clippies in my Etsy shop. They are the perfect accessory for keeping those sweeping stray hairs out of her eyes, or for those little ones that only have enough of it to hold one of these cute clippies in! :) They also make excellent gifts!

You can check out all the items in my Etsy shop by clicking here.

Fingerprint Friday

2008-12-19T14:00:00.005-06:00

The newest blessing to our little family has God's fingerprints all over him! He is such a happy little boy~always smiling all the time, and that big smile of his just melts my heart everytime I look at him! I love you my precious little man! ~ Momma :)

There is a song by Steven Curtis Chapman that says:

I can see the fingerprints of God
When I look at you
I can see the fingerprints of God
And I know its true
You're a masterpiece
That all creation quietly applauds
And you're covered with the fingerprints of God

So look around you and see where YOU can see God's fingerprints. Is it in nature? Kids? Animals? Where do you see them? Here's how to join in:

1. Blog with your interpretation of God's fingerprints.

2. Be sure to link so others can find the entire list of participants! Go to PamperingBeki's blog to add your link to the list of participants.

Meme Time

2008-12-18T17:07:00.009-06:00

Ok, I got this from Nicole's blog, 60piggies, and thought this would be fun...you're supposed to open the 6th folder on your computer and post the 6th picture. So here it is:

This is my oldest daughter this past October. After a day picking out pumpkins and riding her bicycle, she decided to take a break and relax in a big comfy patio chair!

Want to play too...then tag, your it! :)

Santa Claus is coming to town!!!

2008-12-18T15:40:00.005-06:00

We took the kids to see Santa yesterday. My oldest was SO excited to see him, this is the first year she's really enjoying all the Christmas activities, so we're having alot of fun with her. My youngest daughter let out a blood-curdeling scream (that I'm sure was heard all the way at the other end of the mall! LOL!). After quite some time we finally got her somewhat calmed down, but she still wouldn't go anywhere near him, so there she sits on her own stool off in the lower left hand corner of the photo (which was taken between sobs~there's somewhat of a i'm-trying-to-smile-but-still-want-to-cry look on her face). Our little guy was wide-eyed looking all around, just taking it all in!

Please excuse the photo quality; I took a pic of a pic, so, well you get the idea...

Amazing Giveaways!!!

2008-12-06T00:35:00.010-06:00

A Boutique Buyers Blog has an interview up with the girls from MemoryLane. Head on over and read-all-about-it. And have fun playing the game ~ trying to match the designers name with their designs...the winner will receive a custom twirl set and matching bracelet!! WOW!! What a great gift for your own little princess, your niece, cousin, or your granddaughter. You don't want to miss out on this one! Have fun and good luck everyone!! :O)

Click here to head on over there and PLAY TO WIN!!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

And, if you sign up for MemoryLanes mailing list from now until February 10th, 2009, you will be entered into a drawing to be held on February 15th. There will be MANY fantastic prizes (including full custom boutique sets) and there will be several winners! This is for mailing list customers ONLY! This is another amazing giveaway you certainly do not want to miss...head on over to the MemoryLane Blog to sign up now! And once again...good luck to each and every one of you!!!

Here's Another One...

2008-12-04T13:59:00.004-06:00

I just listed 1 more over at my Etsy store. This one is a cute patchwork twirly skirt that is embellished with loads of ruffles, pom-pom fringe, and ric-rac. The t-shirt has a sweet little kitty cat appliqued on the front. I hand embroidered the face and added a rhinestone collar ~ for that extra bit of bling!

You can click here to see all my listings over at Etsy!

New on Etsy

2008-12-03T22:40:00.005-06:00

I just listed 2 new items in my Etsy store tonight.

The first is a cute Lounge Set with a terry cloth rubber ducky hand appliqued to the front of the shirt. I also hand embroidered the words Rub-a-dub on the back. The wide leg pants are oh-so-comfy! Perfect for spring-time.

The second sweet outfit includes the corset-style top with shirred back and the flare jeans. Fabric yo-yo flowers adorn this set, along with lots of different buttons, ribbons, and ric-rac trims. I have also hand embroidered some of the flowers leaves.

Click here to visit my Etsy store.

Just Listed...

2008-12-03T00:51:00.008-06:00

Ooohhh...how I absolutely adore this set!! It includes the very full skirt for maximum twirl-ability and the hand appliqued tank top with the cutest flutter sleeves for that extra bit of sweetness!

And I love how versatile this set is too ~ it will take you through every season! It looks just as adorable in the winter with a t-shirt and tights, as it does in the spring and summer all by itself!

Click here to see more pictures!!

Blog Giveaway!!

2008-12-01T16:46:00.005-06:00

Kathleen from Grosgrain is giving away this adorable jacket and sailor-style pants ~ they are so cute! Click on the link below to see the pictures and to find out how to win them:

Downtown Holiday Jacket and Pant GIVEAWAY!!!!

SeaWorld

2008-11-29T22:19:00.012-06:00

We went to Sea World a few days ago and had SO much fun! We got to pet the dolphins, feed the sealions and the birds, I even had two birds land on top of my head! My husband and our oldest daughter got to ride a roller coaster (a first for both of them!) ;) It was a pretty good size and went pretty fast for a 3 year old! She flew out of her seat on the first hill and daddy had to hold her down the rest of the ride. When she got off, she told me she wasn't scared at all and just held on tight! We of course also saw Shamu in action~my youngest daughter LOVED that...oohing and aahing and clapping!! Here are a few pics of our trip out to San Antonio...
The Alamo is cool....but which way to Sea World???

Already 2 months old, Grandma bought him his first baseball cap....

Waiting to see Shamu....

WOW!!

2008-11-25T13:45:00.003-06:00

Laurie of Kandy Kisses Boutique is having an AMAZING giveaway:

You don't want to miss this one, click here to check it out!

Finally...

2008-11-17T21:01:00.007-06:00

Well, with 3 little ones now, and trying to get custom orders finished, I haven't had much time for any new designs! But I finally finished this one and just listed it on ebay tonight. I'm so happy with the way this re-designed ECO-friendly dress turned out! It's made out of a light-weight chenille throw (that is in perfect condition) and is fully lined. It has decorative vintage buttons and tie straps. I paired it with a great Michael Miller dainty damask print in red. So this dress will not only take you through the upcoming Holidays, but will also take you all the way through to Valentine's Day, and beyond!

Click here to go to the auction!

Sweet Little Lamb

2008-10-12T12:08:00.004-05:00

I have this 5-pc. set listed on ebay right now. It includes the peasant top, the european-style pants, hand appliqued/embroidered reversible apron, reversible sash/headband, and the pin.

Click here to go to the auction!

Memorylane & Guests Celebrate...

2008-10-08T20:35:00.006-05:00

I have the honor of guesting with Memorylane Boutique to help them celebrate their 1st birthday In Style! Please search Memorylane Boutique, October 7th-21st, to find all the great items from the many talented designers!

Our New Little Man!!!

2008-09-30T22:36:00.012-05:00

What a hectic past couple of weeks it has been. We got hit from hurricane Ike, and went without power for 2 whole weeks (which is not very fun with 2 little ones, and me ready to pop)! We were very fortunate though, with only losing a large tree in our backyard and most of our fence; lots of debris and clean-up. Our thoughts and prayers are with each and every one of you who have to continue the long battle of the damage left by Ike!
Only 1 week after the storm hit, our little man arrived (6 days early and still without power). After 4 days in the hospital, we were back at home, and a couple days later our power was finally restored!
We have a healthy baby boy, Jaxon, who is loved dearly by his 2 older sisters...who have been smothering him with kisses since his arrival! :-)
Here he is...our newest addition to the family!! Welcome to the world sweetie...we LOVE you!!!!

Spiced Pumpkin Waffles

2008-09-11T16:22:00.004-05:00

With fall quickly approaching, I thought I'd share this pumpkin waffle recipe I found today while skimming through a magazine...I can't wait to try this one out!

2 1/2 C. all-purpose flour
1 T. baking powder
2 t. cinnamon
1 t. ginger
1/2 t. baking soda
1/2 t. salt
1/2 t. fresh-ground nutmeg
1/4 t. cloves
4 large eggs
2 C. buttermilk
1 C. fresh or canned pumpkin
1/2 C. dark-brown sugar
1/4 C. unsalted butter, melted
1 t. pure vanilla extract

Heat a waffle iron. Combine the first 8 ingredients in a large bowl and set aside. Whisk the remaining 6 ingredients together in another large bowl until smooth. While whisking, add the flour mixture and blend until smooth. Generously coat the waffle iron plates with vegetable oil and cook the batter in the waffle iron as recommended in the manufacturer's instructions. Repeat with the remaining batter. Presented in a heat-proof decanter, maple syrup invites autumn indulgence.
Makes 8 servings.

Optional Add-Ins: Just before pouring batter into a waffle iron, stir in chocolate chips, raisins, or chopped pecans.
Optional Toppings: Adorn waffles with sliced pears and sprinkle with confectioners' sugar. When very crispy, they're also delicious eaten from hand (like toast) and topped with apricot or blueberry preserves.
Optional Go-Withs: Waffles pair just as well with sweet or savory sides. Pair with fruit at breakfast, or fried chicken for dinner. Serve with ice cream and hot fudge for dessert.

A giveaway just for you...

2008-09-11T12:02:00.003-05:00

Debbie of Brigetandco. is having an amazing giveaway going on right now for a free apron skirt! Be sure and check it out here, the deadline to enter is Saturday at midnight PST. Good luck everyone!!

Ballet Baby

2008-09-03T21:26:00.008-05:00

Oh my goodness....my oldest "baby", who turned 3 this past June, started dance class yesterday! She's never been away from my side before, but she went right into that class like such a big girl, and danced her little heart out the entire hour! :-) They only let the parents watch the last 10 minutes of class (so they aren't distracted the whole time), and then they get to show us what they learned. She looked so cute with her hands over head, twirling around; and her leaps over the "mud puddles"! She absolutely loved it ~ she was so excited when she came out of there, telling me about everything she learned and how much fun it was! I thought I'd share some pictures I took before we left for class....

What a GREAT Surprise!!!

2008-08-31T17:04:00.012-05:00

Last week my "little lamb" outfit was featured on Designer Round-Up, and this week my "spider-ific" set shown below made it into their weekly top-10 (that's my award up there)!!!! Yeah!!!! WOW...I am just so excited and honored...I'm jumping up and down!! :-)

A big thank you, thank you, thank you, goes out to Designer Round-Up, I truely appreciate it!!

SPIDER-IFIC!!!

2008-08-27T22:54:00.003-05:00

Here's my latest that I just listed on ebay tonight...a cute halloween outfit that includes the very full tiered pants, the corset-style top hand appliqued with little miss spider herself, and 2 spider hairbows to match!! This set will be re-created for your little one in sizes 1-6. She'll be too cute to spook in this set that is perfect for all your upcoming halloween and fall parties.

Mary had a Little Lamb!!

2008-08-20T09:07:00.005-05:00

I just listed this adorable 5-pc. set last night on ebay for the MonJoli Animaux Launch. You can check it out here. It includes the european style pants, peasant top, hand appliqued and hand embroidered apron, sash/headband, and flower pin. Wow...this is the perfect set for the upcoming fall season!! Sophia absolutely loves hers!!!

Cute as a Button

2008-07-28T22:56:00.001-05:00

I just listed this sweet little 3-pc. set tonight on ebay for the BD back-to-school launch. It includes the peasant top, skirt, and apron appliqued with "cute as a button" on it. This would be perfect for your little cutie's first day at pre-school or kindergarten....or just for any cutie any day! :-)

"Mom, we're bored..."

2008-07-25T09:02:00.000-05:00

Last night I found this great site called amazingmoms.com. They have all kinds of cool ideas to help keep kids busy and end that summer boredome (at least for a little while anyways!)....water games, arts & crafts for all ages, party ideas, recipes for cooking with kids, the list goes on and on. There's a water game called "dribble, dribble, drench" (played kind of like duck, duck, goose) that older kids who don't mind getting wet would love! You can check it all out here. Have some fun with them, only 1 more month or so until its back-to-school time! And get in on all that fun too ~ get wet, get dirty, get a little paint on ya! The smiles, giggles and laughs will all be worth it! :-)

Alice in Wonderland

2008-07-11T01:06:00.000-05:00

Yeah!!!! I finally got everything set up over on Ebay, and I listed this oh-so-sweet little Alice's Tea Party skirt set. You can check out my "me page" and current auctions there by clicking on the link to the left of the page.

And I'd like to take a minute to thank my husband, Adam, who is actually the one who put my "me page" together (he spent many nights trying to figure out html :-) . And to my brother Dave, who helped me with my pictures...thank you both, I truely appreciate it all!!!

Independence Day!!!

2008-07-07T22:32:00.000-05:00

Remember those ice pops, if that's even what they're called :-)....I have not had one since I was a kid, and have never even bought them for my girls. They were passed out at the parade in town though, and the girls were so hesitant to try them, but once they finally did...of course they were hooked!! Yuuummm....They sure tasted good on a very hot mid-morning summer day!

Watching the fireworks, aka the "Boom-Booms", at night.....

Journal Modiste Feature

2008-07-01T13:44:00.000-05:00

Oh my goodness...how excited am I?!?!?!

My Rubber Ducky Outfit is featured on the home page at Journal Modiste!!!

You can check out there awesome website here to find so many wonderfully talented designers!!

Thank you so much for the feature, I am honored!!

My first post!!

2008-07-01T00:29:00.000-05:00

OK...here it is ~ my very first post! !

So, I decided, finally :-), to take my business to the web. Hence, the reason I'm starting this blog...YEAH!! I opened a store on Etsy, where I have a couple of custom outfits listed. You can check it out by going to piatillys.etsy.com or by clicking here.

I'm working now on getting my ebay page set-up, so it will probably be another couple weeks still until I list items for sale there. I'll keep you posted on that!

I'm just so excited to branch out and expand my business. Thank you so much for looking ~ wish me lots of luck!! :-)