Patty's Collection

Progressive Dinner Update

2012-01-29T10:49:00.000-05:00

Last night we had out first progressive dinner. What a great way to meet everyone in your neighborhood and where each course is served at a different house. Our report from last night was an A+, we are fortunate to be surrounded by great people.

We hosted dinner for eight people. Here are some pictures:

On the menu: "Boliche" or Cuban Pot Roast

We are wine lovers and have been saving our corks for a while.

I found this idea on Two Twenty One's blog

I took pictures while setting up the table, but I forgot to take pictures of our meal!

Have a great Sunday!

Fabric for Kitchen Valance

2012-01-27T20:20:00.000-05:00

It's here, it finally arrived last night! I saw this fabric on 320 Sycamore's blog and loved it. We got several fabric samples before, but we couldn't agreed with any.

Melissa's Kitchen

Thanks Melissa for providing the information for the fabric. It took a while to get it as it seems to be a very desirable pattern. I can't wait to start making the valance for the kitchen and I will make sure to post the before and after pictures once finished.

Better Homes & Gardens Jayda Bramble

Another project to add to my list and this time I'll get to use Patty's Collection new sewing machine!

Taming the Tresses

2012-01-27T08:57:00.001-05:00

Today, it's not a good hair day!

I have thick wavy hair. Some days I love it, but most of the time I wish I had straight hair. Three out of seven days my hair is usually pulled back into a bun.

On the days that Emma wakes up late, I do my hair. The best thing is that moms do notice at pick-up time! I am all about saving time and as most moms I don't have a lot of it to spare, so these tools have made the difference for me.

1. Hair Dryer 2. Ceramic Flat Iron 3. Wooden Brush

4. Twirl 1.25 Curling Iron 5. Frizz Ease

Are you having a good hair day today?

Fitness Challenge

2012-01-26T08:15:00.000-05:00

New Year, New Me! It is so refreshing to have a New Year and a clean start. I don't usually make New Year’s resolutions as I tend to break them within a few weeks. However, this year I am ready for a challenge.

My aunt asked me to do a Fitness Challenge with her. My first thought was "I don't have time," but then I realized I make time for everything else, why not do this with her and make positive lifestyle change.

I am tired of looking in my closet and not being able to fit into my nice clothes. Also, I cannot longer use the excuse of "I just had a baby" as Emma will be three this Summer.

The Fitness Challenge is a 10-week weight loss program designed for people who want to lose 15 pounds or more. Our instructors are awesome and keep us motivated. Last night was our second week and so far I have lost 2.5% of my weight, not bad at all. This has become our version of the Biggest Looser and I highly recommend it!

I'll keep you posted and see how things go.

Quote for the Day ~ 1.25.12

2012-01-25T11:19:00.001-05:00

A Magical Time

2012-01-24T08:11:00.000-05:00

It's seems like yesterday when we took Ben to Disney for his 5th Birthday. During his birthday celebration in Disney, my niece joined us and helped us celebrate. We had breakfast with Mickey, and of course, they wore their Mickey and Minnie shirts!

We recently received an order for these shirts from a client that made me remember this special occasion. She ordered shirts for her kids and later in the week she e-mailed me inquiring about adult t shirts. I thought, what a great idea! I was concerned about the size of the applique being too small, but my motto has always been "less is more" and she agreed with it!

Happy as they could be!

Strolling in Hollywood Studios

Luau dinner!

These are the shirts that my client ordered for her little ones, mom and grandmothers. I can't wait to see pictures of the whole family wearing them!

I am sure they will have a Magical time in Disney!

Are you planning a trip to Disney anytime soon? Don't forget to order your Mickey and Minnie shirts for those family photos!

Playroom Subway Art

2012-01-23T06:45:00.000-05:00

We got some snow in Maryland this weekend! Although my kids enjoyed playing outside for hours, we also spent a lot time in the playroom. So, we reorganized the room, put some toys away and made room for the new ones they got for Christmas.

While cleaning up I wanted to put a message/art to remind my kids of the rules while playing here... so I found this great subway art that was easy to download and print on a 8x10 photo paper.

I love the colors... it pretty much goes with every toy my kids have :)

You can download this from Anything but Perfect's blog. Thanks!

How did you enjoy this snowy weekend?

First Snow of 2012

2012-01-21T12:16:00.002-05:00

A truly beautiful picture. This is our first snow for the New Year here in Maryland and my kids are loving it!

Perfect snow for sledding

Ben working those muscles

Fun, Fun, Fun!

They are still playing outside. I am back inside drinking my hot coffee and waiting for the guys to clean our driveway so we can go out!

I hope you're enjoying the weather today!

Simple Solutions ~ Jewelry Organizer

2012-01-20T08:22:00.001-05:00

It's hard to enjoy your accessories when they're in a tangled in a drawer or a box. I keep my nice jewelry in my dresser drawers organizer, but I had to find a practical place for my necklaces. The solution was my closet... this is where they are now.

I have these on each side of my closet

I didn't want to use or spend money on any fancy boxes, frames or boards, I just used these simple cup hooks that I bought at Lowes and screwed them on my wall.

How do you keep you necklaces organized?

Bathrobe Winner

2012-01-19T09:34:00.000-05:00

With the chaos of the Holiday Season now behind us, Patty's Collection is happy to report that our winner will be receiving her new monogrammed spa bathrobe this week!

Carole S, thanks so much for participating in Maryland Pink and Green Giveaway!

Also, we would like to remind you that Patty's Collection is close to reaching 300 fans on Facebook. If you would like to win a spa wrap, please help us spread the word. Once we reach 300 fans, we will be choosing our winner. All our fans on Facebook will get an entry to win our spa wrap!

Good luck!

Memorable Moments

2012-01-18T09:17:00.002-05:00

Coloring Emma's castle!

It kept them occupied for a while...

Thoughtful Tuesday!

2012-01-17T08:14:00.000-05:00

I saw this on Crafty, Scrappy, Happy this weekend and loved it, so I thought sharing this on my blog for those that have not seen it yet.

Have a great week!

Milk Glass

2012-01-16T08:11:00.000-05:00

We finished taking all the Christmas decorations down and I was looking for something to replace the kitchen decorations. While I was putting boxes back I found these great antique milk glass items. These were Jason's grandmother's and they have a sentimental value.

I used some flowers and votive candles to accent the pieces

This is what this corner looks like now

According to Wikipedia, milk glasses were first made in Venice in the 16th century, colors include blue, pink, yellow, brown, black, and white. 19th-century glass makers called milky white opaque glass "opal glass". The name milk glass is relatively recent.

These days, milk glass still remains a popular collectible for around the home. Although it is not as expensive as porcelain, I think it makes a beautiful alternative for all sorts of decorations and decor items.

Dresser Drawer Makeover

2012-01-14T10:31:00.001-05:00

While at Bed Bath and Beyond one day, I spotted these stackable jewelry trays and a light bulb lit up. I decided to make the top of my dresser drawers into my jewelry organizers.

This is what the top two of my dresses drawers looked like... everything that I didn't want on top of the dresser went inside, it was more like a junk drawer...

I don't own a lot of jewelry, but when when I need to accessorize, it's so much easier to find what I need. It only took about an hour to organize.

Next time, I will show you what I did with my necklaces.

Got Purple?

2012-01-13T08:53:00.000-05:00

The Ravens made it to the playoffs again! Today is "Purple Friday" in Maryland. Purple fever will take over everywhere in anticipation for Sunday's game. Yes, we are wearing purple today and I have a feeling we'll be wearing purple next Friday. Go Ravens!

Are you wearing purple today?

Quote for the Day ~ 1.11.12

2012-01-11T08:29:00.001-05:00

Our First Progressive Dinner Party

2012-01-10T08:01:00.000-05:00

In case you are wondering "What is a progressive dinner party?" It is a party where each successive course is eaten at a different host's house ~ the guests progress from house to house. Therefore, the name progressive dinner party.

Since we moved to our new home, we have been invited to several social activities in the neighborhood. We have not been able to make it to all of them, but the invitations keep coming!

For our first Progressive Dinner Party, we are hosting dinner for four couples. Call us brave! We'll start at the first house with appetizers, then the guests will come to our house for dinner, then we'll be going to the next house for dessert, sounds like fun to me!

What's on the menu? We're planning to make Boliche also known as Cuban Pot Roast. We can prepare it in advance so we don't have to stress the same day and we can actually relax and enjoy hosting.

And, we'll be following the recipe from one of favorite Cuban cook books... Memories of a Cuban Kitchen!

I'll let you know how our dinner goes!

Valentine's Day Applique Designs

2012-01-08T12:16:00.000-05:00

Are you looking for fun and stylish Valentine's Day T shirts for kids? Patty's Collection just added nine new designs for Valentine's Day! Our cute t shirts are perfect for Valentine’s Day parties, photos and just to wear on February 14th. What we love about the designs we have selected is that our t shirts can be worn not only on Valentine's day, but also any day during the year.

And, we didn't forget the tiny ones. We have added the sizes for the onesies for the little ones having their first Valentine's Day!

Don't forget to visit our Website to check all our designs and get yours today!

Kids Bathrobes!

2012-01-05T08:18:00.000-05:00

Finally, I finished monogramming my kids new bathrobes. One of my good clients inquired about hooded terry velour bathrobes, so here they are! I made several of these before the holidays, but I never had a chance to finish the ones for my kids. I can't wait to use them tonight after their bath! These are so soft, warm and cozy that I want to make one for myself.

This is just another example of GREAT ideas from clients!

Cheers to 2012!

2011-12-31T18:14:00.000-05:00

One of our traditions on this day is to eat 12 grapes for New Years. This is a Spanish tradition and we eat a grape with each bell strike at midnight on December 31. According to this tradition, that leads to a year of prosperity. So guess what we'll be doing at midnight?

I wish all my family and friends a Happy New Year. I hope that you have a wonderful 2012.

To every reader, thank you for your loyally and for all of your kind comments and emails! We look forward to making more beautiful things in 2012.

Memorable Moments

2011-12-30T16:07:00.003-05:00

Emma got a boo boo...

Big brother to the rescue!

As I Look Back...

2011-12-29T13:45:00.000-05:00

... there was joy, there was craziness, late nights, and lots and lots of gratitude. As I look forward, I am very excited about the possibilities this new year holds.

I want to thank you for being Patty's Collection loyal clients, biggest fans, best advertisers, and for all the personal introductions. Blogging takes a lot of time, but it's very rewarding when you hear all the positive feedback and new ideas.

The best part of Patty's Collection is all the new the friends that I have been able to make and I am lucky to have come across great people.

These are some of the many orders that I was able to make this year... as I always say... There is just something so great about being a part of people's gift-giving!

One of the many version of this cute crab

Cute baby gift

One of the favorite designs this Christmas

This little one loves wheels

One design, different color shirts

The new addition to our collection

2011-12-28T14:55:00.000-05:00

I just discovered Pinterest and I Love it!

For those of you that have not heard of Pinterest, it's a virtual pinboard for the great things that you come across the web and want to save, e.g., products you love, art and crafts, favorite places, fashion, etc. etc. and you can also create your own boards! My Bookmark Bar was getting way too long and now with Pinterest I can find any ideas that I liked and saved by just going to my board.

I can also follow other pinners and repin things of interest to my site. So, when you get a chance, check it out and if you like what you see, you can follow me too!

Christmas 2011

2011-12-27T11:05:00.000-05:00

Our Christmas was filled with friends and family, amazing food and remembering the reason for the season. We feel so blessed. There is nothing better than seeing your kids having so much fun and enjoying this wonderful day!

Christmas Eve

Leaving cookies for Santa

Christmas Day

Dancing to Just Dance Kids II

Emma checking out her new wheels

Getting tea ready for everyone

Ben couldn't wait to try his new wheels!

I hope all of you had a fabulous Christmas!

Christmas Giveaway!

2011-12-26T10:09:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas! Family and friends are what life is all about and I feel so very blessed for all the amazing family and friends in our lives.

Today, I wanted to remind you about our giveaway with Maryland Pink and Green, if you have not entered yet, you still have one day left to do so!

One lucky winner will receive this elegant monogrammed bathrobe from Patty's Collections. To enter, visit Maryland Pink and Green!

Thank you for taking the time out of your day to stop by and read my posts!

Ready for Santa!

2011-12-24T12:37:00.000-05:00

Our mantel is ready for Santa to come on down the chimney!

I bought new stockings this year and believe it or not, I had to have them monogrammed... shhhh. I was so busy with Patty's Collection gifts this holiday season that I knew I would not have time to do it myself. Besides, my hoop would not fit into the stockings, so we have some exciting news for the New Year at Patty's Collection... more details will follow soon.

Merry Christmas!

Matching Christmas Pajamas

2011-12-23T10:03:00.000-05:00

Whew! Our last Patty's Collection's Christmas gift was picked up today. Thanks to all our awesome clients and for all the referrals, we had a great holiday season!

This morning, I woke up a little earlier than usual ~ you don't want to know what time :) and finished Ben and Emma's pajamas. While my parents were in town, I asked my mom to help me with their pajamas bottoms and today, I finished their tops! I can't wait for them to wear these tomorrow night. It's going to be another great Christmas!

Yes, Santa! Ben and Emma have been exceptionally Nice! this year

Christmas Banister

2011-12-22T18:50:00.000-05:00

This will be our first Christmas at our new home. I am trying to re-use our old decorations, but also trying to do some different. This year, I decorated the banister with garland wrapped with lights and added another 100 lights to it. I covered the cords with gold ribbon added some ornaments to it. It looks so nice at night and it was so easy to put together.

Close up photo

I love gold and red when decorating for Christmas!

Christmas Card Photo Display

2011-12-16T12:47:00.002-05:00

We display our Christmas cards on an antiqued pewter finish photo/card holder that I bought last year from Willow House. It has lots of clips and holds tons of cards. We love to display all the photo cards that we receive and this is a great way to do it.

A full display is a great sign that Christmas is near!

How do you display your Christmas cards?

Preppy Pony Tail Holders

2011-12-14T08:33:00.001-05:00

I am sure you've seen these before and thought "where can I buy those?" As of today, Patty's Collection will be adding these super cute monogrammed pony tail holders to our Collection.

In between finishing Christmas orders last night, I was thinking about new hair accessories for my niece and made these four for her! I think she will love them! She's my best model and loves everything I make for her.

I will be adding these new designs to our website and create the option "Design Your Own." I have gotten positive feedback about this feature on our website, so we will continue to use it. Thanks!

This morning, Emma decided to wear it on her wrist! I guess you can use them as bracelets as well!

Fa la la la Fabulous Monday!

2011-12-11T19:38:00.001-05:00

Christmas has offically begun at hour home. We're almost finish decorating, my parents are visiting for the holidays, everyone is in the holiday spirit and I am almost done with all of the Patty's Collection orders in time for the holidays and that includes my kids!

Ben is wearing the t shirt I made for him last year (that's the great thing about our shirts you can wear them for two seasons) and Emma is wearing her new elf t shirt.

Thanks to all the referrals and our loyal clients, we were the busiest this holiday season!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

2011-12-11T07:48:00.000-05:00

Our tree is very traditional in that we keep it simple with white lights and ornaments that have been collected through the years. We love glass ornaments, so every year we get a couple new ones for our tree. I can't take much credit for our Christmas tree as Jason does all the work... and he does a really great job!

I still have not learned how to take good pictures

of the tree when it's lit

Some of our favorite ornaments collected over the years

Some of the ones from this year...

It's beginning to look like Christmas!

There really is no place like home for the holidays!

Quote for the Day ~ 12.09.11

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

You've Got Mail...

2011-12-08T13:42:00.000-05:00

Our cards came in the mail last week and I have mailed most of them. Every year, we order our cards from Tiny Prints, they have a great designs and I always seem to find the right one. Have you sent out your Christmas cards yet? It's only 16 days before Christmas and we look forward to getting our mail every day and find those beautiful pictures cards.

Our Advent Calendar

2011-12-07T08:40:00.000-05:00

Here's our count down to Christmas! We keep this calendar in the playroom area and I put two little pieces of candy or a little card with an activity to do with the kids every day before Ben comes home from school.

Emma is patient enough to wait for Ben to get home. When he's home, they both run to the playroom so see what's on the stocking of the day! A fun activity to do with the kids during the holidays!

Have you heard of Pinterest? Lots of fun ideas!

Keeping Christmas Magical

2011-12-06T09:32:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, we spent a few hours getting the house ready for Christmas. Ben and Emma loved it and tried helping as much as they could.

Playing with the musical box

Emma was amused by the little trains and ice skaters
coming in and out of the musical box.

Christmas is full of magical moments!

O' Christmas Tree

2011-12-05T13:21:00.000-05:00

I am happy to say that we managed to get our Christmas tree yesterday! Usually we get it Thanksgiving weekend, but this year, we were a little late. We get our tree at the Fire Station in our neighborhood. They have the most beautiful trees and the best prices too.

Ben and Emma were super excited and were running around all over the place.

Looking for the perfect tree

Emma having a blast

We made it home with just two little strings

Here it is. We'll start decorating tonight

Have you gotten your Christmas Tree?

Christmas Cards

2011-12-04T08:04:00.000-05:00

This year, we never had the chance to take professional pictures. We had too many things going on and time just flew by, so we took this task upon ourselves and it was not easy... these are some of the many pictures we took, it pretty much shows how it went down...

I will reveal the final photos next week when we finish putting all our cards in the mail.

Quote for the Day ~ 12.02.11

2011-12-02T16:18:00.000-05:00

All I want for Christmas

2011-12-01T08:56:00.000-05:00

Coach's Madison flagship embossed buff croc caroline dowel, limited edition.

A girl can only dream ☺

Stocking Stuffers Gift Ideas

2011-11-29T15:50:00.001-05:00

Christmas is almost here! I am sure that I'm not the only one who has not finished shopping yet. The good news is that there is plenty of time left. If you are looking for some gifts and keepsake ideas that will forever be treasured, you need to check Patty's Collection gift ideas... $20 and under. You can find something for the special one on your list.

Get the Rake(s) Out

2011-11-29T09:17:00.001-05:00

My kids love to roll around in the leaf piles. It's such a great joy to them. We're surrounded by trees and, yes, there will be a lot of raking to do. This is what our deck looks like so far and most of the leaves have fallen out.

Emma collecting sticks

Jumping on the leaves

Looking for more sticks in the playground

Emma won't look at the camera!

There are so many leaves, I think it's time to pull the leaf blower!

Cyber Monday

2011-11-27T08:07:00.001-05:00

The online holiday shopping season officially kicks off with Cyber Monday. If you missed our Black Friday Sale, why wait until tomorrow, start shopping now! Patty's Collection Cyber Monday starts today! Don't forget to help us spread the word.

Happy Shopping!

He's Back!

2011-11-26T10:43:00.000-05:00

Guess who came to our home today?

We started the Elf On The Shelf tradition when Ben was 3 years old. Our Elf is named Freddie and at our home he comes back the Saturday after Thanksgiving. He will magically be moving around our house every day and he will be watching over Ben and Emma. It's going to be lots of fun!

I think everyone has an elf, but if you have not yet gotten one, it's a must have!

Remember, we can't touch him! but he did bring a note with him

Do you do the Elf on the Shelf with your kids?

Black Friday Special

2011-11-25T07:42:00.000-05:00

Time to start shopping for Christmas! Are you going out shopping today? I am planning to avoid all the craziness and stay home; however, I am so glad that online shopping was invented as I do most of my Christmas shopping online.

Hopefully, you will also be shopping from the comfort of your home. So, in honor of the biggest shopping day of the year, Patty's Collection is having a 20% off sale today only.

Happy Shopping!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T07:36:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving Day is the time to give thanks for everything that you have and to help those who are not so fortunate as yourself. Whatever it is that you're doing to celebrate, make this day special by creating forever memories.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving Dessert

2011-11-23T09:38:00.000-05:00

How perfect and easy! I was looking for a pumpkin dessert and found these Pumpkin Parfaits on Gourmet.com. We are hosting Thanksgiving dinner and brunch on Sunday, I think these may be on the menu!

What for dessert on your menu?

Thanksgiving Place Cards

2011-11-22T08:03:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving, it’s just two days away and we love to host it at our house. This year, I made these place cards with the kids. I do most of the work, but they just love feeling that they are part of the whole process!

These were easy to make. I bought the card stock and pine cones at Michaels, used a square template to create each name, and a brown ribbon for my bows.

These are all our place cards, we can actually have a sit down dinner!

I use hot glue for the bows

I also used hot glue to glue the pine cones to the cards

I spent about $8 for this project :)

New York City!

2011-11-21T09:23:00.000-05:00

What a better time to visit New York City than around the holidays. You could definitely feel the excitement of the upcoming holiday season.

This was a trip for Ben as he's been wanting to visit for a while. One of things he wanted to do was to go ice skating, so that was our first stop. Here's our NYC trip, in a nutshell...

Rockefeller Center. He fell many times, but kept on trying and trying until he

was able to ice skate on his own!

We went by the Garment New York District... I could spend a whole day here checking

the fabrics, trims, etc, but it was Ben's day.

Empire State Building. We took the short cut by doing the NYSkyRide, a virtual tour simulator

or the city. Ben loved it!

Times Square. Ben was thrilled to go to the Toys R Us store and he didn't forget to pick up

a present for Emma

There is so much to do in New York, we need to come back some other time to do a tour of downtown and bring Emma with us next time.

Quote for the Day ~ 11.17.11

2011-11-17T14:17:00.000-05:00

Monogrammed Baby Shower

2011-11-16T06:28:00.000-05:00

Decorating with monograms is a lovely way to accent a baby shower. You can use the baby's initials or the baby's first name. Either way it adds a beautiful personal touch to the event! At Patty's Collection, we can customized the monograms to match any party decor.

Hostess Gifts

2011-11-15T06:23:00.000-05:00

It's nice being invited to parties, especially this time of year. I recently received an email from a client asking about ideas for inexpensive but meaningful hostess gift. This is what I recommended and she loved it.

Wrap your favorite bottle of wine in a monogrammed kitchen

towel and tie it with a bow. The entire gift is useful!

Part of Gift-Giving...

2011-11-13T18:56:00.001-05:00

Happy Monday!

It's been a busy weekend. We did so much with the kids. Ben had his last soccer game and he almost scored a goal! Way to go Ben!

We ran lots of errands, played outside, took pictures for our Christmas cards and I worked on Patty's Collection orders. Whew! This is what my studio looks like so far and I still have lots of orders to work on. I am trying to take pictures of everyone's orders and designs. I hope I can keep up with the pictures.

Thank you to all of our clients for keeping us busy this Holiday season. There is just something so great about being a part of people's gift-giving!

Memorable Moments

2011-11-13T10:34:00.001-05:00

Christmas List

2011-11-09T08:15:00.000-05:00

With only 45 days until Christmas, we wanted to help you remember the important people in your life.

For all our gift ideas, visit Patty's Collection website, we have gifts for everyone on your list!

Quote for the Day ~ 11.08.11

2011-11-08T09:38:00.002-05:00

The Right Fit

2011-11-07T08:25:00.000-05:00

Jeans can be a girl's best friend or her worst nightmare. I went shopping for a pair of jeans last night and I felt like I was buying a bathing suit. It was so hard to find the right fit. With so many different styles, finding the right one for your body type can sometimes be a very difficult process. After trying about seven different pairs, I found the most flattering one, I think!

I saw this on StyleFind and it was a fun exercise.

StyleFind

Do you have trouble finding a decent pair of jeans?

Memorable Moments

2011-11-06T07:35:00.000-05:00

Emma walking her doggie

Today's Holiday Bazaar

2011-11-05T16:31:00.003-04:00

Thanks to everyone who came to the JHTC Holiday Bazaar, it was another great year! Also, thanks to the committee in charge of this event, they did an amazing job!

The JHTC Holiday Bazaar had most of the home party vendors and everyone was able to get some of their holiday shopping done in one place. There sure was something original for everyone to get for the holidays! It is always nice to see our loyal clients and meet new ones.

To see our entire Collection, don't forget to visit our website.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Tomorrow at JHTC

2011-11-04T14:21:00.003-04:00

We are so excited to be part of John Hopkins Toddler Co-Op Holiday Bazaar for the third year in a row! There will be Chick-fil-A for lunch, bake sale, raffles and prized wheel for the kids.

You don't want to miss this event!

If you cannot make, you can always shop online at Patty's Collection.

Quote for the Day ~ 11.03.11

2011-11-03T19:00:00.001-04:00

Oh, What a Night!

2011-11-01T12:22:00.000-04:00

Halloween night was a lot of fun.

Mario and "Princess" Pirate

They haven't seen each other only a couple of days,

but they have a lot to catch up

I found my cap and gown and put it to use...

last minute costume

Got lots of candy... and tired!

Next, Thanksgiving.... One of my family's all-time favorite holidays!!

Pumpkin Contest

2011-10-31T08:28:00.000-04:00

Happy Halloween!

Ben has a pumpkin contest at school today! The students were asked to decorate a pumpkin; however, no carving was allowed. So here's what we did for Ben's pumpkin. We used felt, scissors and a glue gun.

We started our project Sunday morning after breakfast...

notice they are still on their PJs :)

I used a small glue gun so that Ben can actually help with his project

Here it is! Mr. Owl

Snow in October?!

2011-10-29T17:22:00.001-04:00

Either the calendar seems wrong or the forecast, but it's really snowing in October! Ben's soccer game was canceled and he's now playing in the snow... I never thought I said this in October!

How are you enjoying the snow today?

Halloween Recipe Idea

2011-10-28T07:02:00.000-04:00

The kids are so excited about Halloween! To add a little fun before trick or treating, last night we made Crescent Mummy Dogs. These were so easy and fun to make.

Emma is wearing her "Princess Pirate" costume

Not bad!

Crescent Mummy Dogs

INGREDIENTS

1 can (8 oz) Pillsbury® refrigerated crescent dinner rolls or 1 can (8 oz) Pillsbury® Crescent Recipe Creations® refrigerated seamless dough sheet
2 1/2 slices American cheese, quartered (2.5 oz)
10 large hot dogs
Cooking spray
Mustard or ketchup, if desired

DIRECTIONS

Heat oven to 375°F.
If using crescent rolls: Unroll dough; separate at perforations, creating 4 rectangles. Press perforations to seal. If using dough sheet: Unroll dough; cut into 4 rectangles.
With knife or kitchen scissors, cut each rectangle lengthwise into 10 pieces, making a total of 40 pieces of dough. Slice cheese slices into quarters (1/2 slice cheese, cut in half).
Wrap 4 pieces of dough around each hot dog and 1/4 slice of cheese to look like "bandages," stretching dough slightly to completely cover hot dog. About 1/2 inch from one end of each hot dog, separate "bandages" so hot dog shows through for "face." On ungreased large cookie sheet, place wrapped hot dogs (cheese side down); spray dough lightly with cooking spray.
Bake 13 to 17 minutes or until dough is light golden brown and hot dogs are hot. With mustard, draw features on "face."

These are also perfect to take to a Halloween party!

Quote for the Day ~ 10.27.11

2011-10-27T08:47:00.000-04:00

Simple Solutions ~ Bow Organizer

2011-10-26T08:16:00.000-04:00

If you have a little girl, chances are she has a lot of bows and hair accessories! As you can imagine, my little one has lots of hair clippies/bows and this is how I keep them organized. I made her a monogrammed bow holder! You can put it in a closet, on a hanger, as a wall decoration, or just about anywhere.

This is one of her bow holders

Another version

At Patty's Collection, you can design your own!

How do you keep you child's hair accessories organized?

A Walk with Nature

2011-10-25T08:58:00.002-04:00

Saturday it was a perfect day to go hiking. We found this place a couple years ago while driving off Jarrestville Pike. Ben was three the last time we were there and even though he couldn't remember the trail, he did remember the small stream. We took the 1.5 mile trail and enjoyed our walk with nature.

They found their sticks, took a break, and spotted a caterpillar

Got a little help from daddy and stayed on the trail

At the end of our walk, Emma did need a little help from daddy

The temperature was perfect. Definitely feeling a bit cooler and there was not a cloud in the sky. The kids loved it so much, we will be coming back soon.

Hope your weekend was adventurous!

National Chili Month

2011-10-24T08:14:00.000-04:00

Chili is one of our favorite meals for fall and winter. While looking for a new chili recipe I learned that October is National Chili Month, did you know that? I would normally make it for football Sunday dinner, but the Ravens are playing on Monday, so guess what's for dinner tonight!

I found this recipe on Everyday With Rachel Ray magazine a couple years ago. I tried it and it became another recipe for my magazine recipe binder.

Tex-Mex Corn Chip Chili

INGREDIENTS

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 pound lean ground beef
1/2 sweet onion, finely chopped (about 1 cup)
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
One 15-ounce can black beans
One 15-ounce can pinto beans
One 10-ounce can tomatoes with green chilies
Salt and pepper
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
12 ounces pepper Jack cheese, shredded (about 3 cups)
One bag (about 10 ounces) corn chips, such as Fritos

DIRECTIONS:

In a Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook for 7 minutes. Add the onion, garlic, chili powder and cumin and cook over mediumlow heat for 5 minutes. Add the beans, with their liquid, and the tomatoes; bring to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until thick, about 15 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Stir in the cilantro, then top with the cheese, cover and let stand until the cheese melts, 5 to 10 minutes. Place a handful of corn chips in each of 4 bowls. Top with the chili and serve.

Do you have a special chili recipe?

Memorable Moments

2011-10-23T08:58:00.000-04:00

This picture was taken a couple years ago.

Can't wait for Emma to join in the fun this year!

Beautiful Sunrise

2011-10-22T08:42:00.000-04:00

I woke up this morning only to see this out of my window! It's going to be another gorgeous weekend! Emma is waking up so we're getting our hiking shoes ready.

Another Sunrise, Another New Beginning

- Jonathan Lockwood Huie

The best thing about the future is that it comes one day at a time.

- Abraham Lincoln

Have a great one!

Simple Solutions ~ USB Outlet

2011-10-21T08:46:00.001-04:00

Happy Friday everyone!

One of my favorite sections on Real Simple magazine is the "Problem Solver of the Month." One of the things that I am getting this month is a new USB outlet cover. I read that it's easier to install and it's made in the U.S.A. You can get it at FastMac.

Why didn't I think of this :)

It's supposed to be a gorgeous weekend in Maryland! Have a great one!

Countdown to Christmas

2011-10-20T08:08:00.001-04:00

Today is October 20th which means there are exactly 65 days until Christmas! We have started the countdown at Patty's Collection. What's on your kids Santa’s “Nice List” this year?

At Patty's Collection, we have some new designs on our list:

Have you started looking for the perfect Holiday outfits yet?

It Never Fails...

2011-10-19T06:38:00.000-04:00

I guess like a lot of other people, I am usually thinking by early afternoon, "what's for dinner tonight?"

My kids are so great about eating everything; however, if they love it one day, sometimes they won't eat it the next. They love fresh meals and variety. One dish that I can make every week is Giada DeLaurentiis' Farfalle with Turkey Sausage, Peas and Mushrooms! It's so easy to make and everyone loves it.

Ingredients

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
1 pound ground turkey sausage, removed from casing
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
10 ounces cremini mushrooms, coarsely chopped
1 (10 ounce) package frozen peas, defrosted slightly
1 pound dried farfalle pasta
1/2 cup freshly grated Grana Padano cheese - I use Parmigiano-Reggiano

Directions

In a large pot, bring 6 quarts of salted water to a boil.

In a large saute pan over high heat, add 2 tablespoons olive oil. Season turkey with salt and pepper. Add turkey and saute breaking any large lumps until golden brown. Remove meat from pan and set aside. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil to pan and heat. Add chopped mushrooms and season with salt and pepper. Saute until all the liquid from the mushrooms has evaporated, about 5 minutes. Add the peas and saute for 4 minutes. Return the meat to the pan and cook for another 3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

When the pot of water has come to a boil, add pasta and cook until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain in acolander. Return pasta to the pot and add the meat mixture. Combine thoroughly and gently cook over medium heat for 5 minutes. Drizzle in remaining olive oil. If the mixture is dry, do not hesitate to use more olive oil if necessary. Check the seasoning. Turn off the heat and add the grated cheese. Stir well and serve in large bowl.

I own some of Giada's books. Two of my favorite:

Everyday Italian

Everyday Pasta

This recipe was on our menu last night!

Quote for the Day ~ 11.18.11

2011-10-18T08:25:00.001-04:00

JHTC Holiday Bazaar

2011-10-17T08:43:00.001-04:00

We are so excited to be part of John Hopkins Toddler Co-Op Holiday Bazaar for the third year in a row! There will be Chick-fil-A for lunch, bake sale, raffles and prized wheel for the kids.

You don't want to miss this event!

If you cannot make, you can always shop online at Patty's Collection.

Memorable Moments

2011-10-16T09:22:00.000-04:00

Driving Miss Emma

Hang on tight!

Fall Colors

2011-10-15T08:46:00.000-04:00

The leaves are very slowly changing colors here and today was one of the first days it really seemed noticeable.

Beautiful day... not a cloud in the sky

With days like this... we surely enjoy a walk in

our neighborhood

Our neighbor's tree... how pretty is that?

This is what my kids call a tree tunnel

We're off to another soccer game. Happy Saturday!

I ♥ Soup

2011-10-13T08:26:00.000-04:00

On days like this, I love having a warm bowl of soup. So, what's on the menu for tonight? I am making my favorite soup from Epicurious. Quick, simple and delicious.

Hearty Chicken Vegetable Soup

Stay warm and dry today!

Laundry Day is Everyday

2011-10-12T07:14:00.000-04:00

Laundry day is more like laundry week! Where does all this laundry come from? It used to be three times a week now it seems to be everyday. What works best for me is to do laundry every other day. Even so, I realized it will never go away!

When it comes to folding clothes, Emma is my little helper. She helps me most of the time; however, the other day, as soon as I went to the kitchen to make coffee, I heard "Mommy, I am helping with laundry." Of course, she did by throwing it all over the floor!

Caught in the act

I took a deep breath and laughed, what else could I do... but start all over again!

I wish I could wave a magic wand and poof make all the laundry disappear! Do you have a routine that works for you?

Candy Corn Pumpkin

2011-10-11T06:23:00.000-04:00

We picked our pumpkins and we looked for decorating ideas. We (I) didn't feel like carving this year, so I found this idea online and it was so easy to make.

These are the things that you'll need a little bit of patience :)

1. One nice size pumpkin, candy corn, and glue gun

2. Draw the eyes and mouth

3. I am keeping this pumpkin inside so I didn't carve it, I just peeled one layer

4. Glued the candy corn around the eyes first

then proceeded to glue the entire pumpkin

5. Ta-Da! my kids think it looks scary! Now this is my kitchen's center piece

Did you know that on average 9 billion kernels (weighing 35 million pounds) are produced each year? We certainly used quite a few on this pumpkin!

Pumpkin Picking Fun

2011-10-10T12:08:00.000-04:00

Halloween is almost here! Yesterday, we went to a local farm to pick our pumpkins. It was lots of fun and a beautiful day.

Running on the hay maze

No Ravens game today, but he's wearing his purple

My sweet niece. Love those pigtails

Best buddies

Emma found her perfect pumpkin

The tooth fairy visited us twice last week :)

Leading the way

Have you picked your pumpkin yet?

Quote for the Day ~ 10.10.11

2011-10-10T09:10:00.001-04:00

In light of October being Breast Cancer Awareness month...

Memorable Moments

2011-10-09T08:56:00.000-04:00

Getting Emma ready so they can go play outside!

Shipping Rate

2011-10-08T10:00:00.001-04:00

Did you know that Patty's Collection

Don't forget to make your selection at check out. If you choose "pick up," an e-mail will be sent to you when your order is ready.

Enjoy this gorgeous weekend!

Autumn Bliss

2011-10-07T08:09:00.000-04:00

The nights are getting cooler, and the days are getting shorter as we move into my favorite time of year. My fall decorating started...

From a tall vase to a small one...

I trimmed the stems and I have another week of fresh flowers

I bought these hurricanes glasses at Michael's and filled them up with dry leaves

Love tall branches

I am not a decorator, but these are just another activities that the kids and I have fun doing together!

A True Visionary

2011-10-06T08:26:00.001-04:00

"You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something -- your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. This approach has never let me down, and it has made all the difference in my life." Stanford University commencement address, June 2005.

Goodbye Steve. And thank you.

Quote for the Day ~ 10.04.11

2011-10-04T08:31:00.000-04:00

Tickled Pink

2011-10-03T08:59:00.000-04:00

One of Emma's favorite books is "Pinkalicious" So, in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month, we will be reading more of these books for her this month. The message is not about Breast Cancer Awareness, but they are great books and pink!

Pinkalicious is the story about a little girl who eats so many pink cupcakes that she ends up turning... pink!

Go Pink!

Happy October

2011-10-02T10:12:00.000-04:00

You know what that means? The beginning of the holiday season. First, Halloween, followed by Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the New Year!

Yesterday, I was at The Good Shepherd School at their Holiday Bazaar. It was such a great event and so well organized. I got a chance to see many of my friends and their little ones enjoying every single activity. Also, it was so nice to hear the oohh's and ahhh's when they stopped at Patty's Collection! Now, I am looking forward to making these orders for such cute kids!

At our home the count down to Christmas starts in October, so Ben just began writing his letter to Santa this morning!

Happy October everyone!

Five ~ Favorite Fall Sweaters

2011-09-29T12:07:00.003-04:00

Crisp days and chilly days are in the forecast, so I had to break out some sweaters and look for new ones. I love soft comfortable sweaters, the kind that makes me curl up on the couch and sip a cup of coffee. Sounds relaxing! it doesn't happen often, but I do sure will take advantage of each opportunity.

While window shopping online, I found these to be my five favorites:

White House Black Market

Not sure if stripes are for me, but I am liking this one

Ann Taylor

Love the color and looks super comfortable

Banana Republic

Ruffle placket open cardigan

Lilly Pulitzer

Lunden Sweater

Ann Taylor Loft

Loving this cocoon sweater

My 10th Wedding Anniversary is today... maybe a good excuse to do some shopping!

10th Wedding Anniversary

2011-09-29T07:07:00.000-04:00

It’s hard to believe that it was 10 years ago today that the Jason and I were married on a perfect autumn day among friends and family! I still remember just about every detail of that day. It seems like it was only yesterday, or maybe just a few years ago.

Jason has been very creative when it comes to our wedding anniversary gifts. I remembered for our 5th year anniversary, according to the " gift symbols" which it is wood, Jason got me a brand new fence! and the greatest gift to this day, the chance to stay home with Ben and now Emma.

Jason and I have known each other for 16 years. On our first year of dating, we traveled to Peru and explored Macchu Picchu and other important cities, but most of all he got a chance to meet the other side of my family.

May 1996 ~ We were so young

One year before the "I Dos"

September 2001

This is us now!

Happy Anniversary! Thanks for 10 wonderful years!

Kitchen Valance

2011-09-28T18:09:00.000-04:00

We painted our kitchen and replaced the hardware, now the only thing missing is a valance. The window is large and looks out into our garden, so I didn't want to obstruct the view. Here are some fabrics that we picked, now the hard part, choosing the right one.

My friend stopped by this morning and she chose the same fabric that I like, so that may be the ONE! On my next posting, I will show you how to make an easy and simple valance and reveal the before and after pictures of our kitchen. A valance is an inexpensive way to bring style to your window and for me another way to use Patty's Collection studio.

So Tastefully Simple

2011-09-27T19:06:00.000-04:00

My friend Molly introduced me to Tastefully Simple and now I am a big fan. Our favorite is the Bountiful Beer Bread Mix and the Truffle Fudge Brownie Mix. But there are so many other great items to choose from, from breads, soups, desserts, dips and beverages.

With homework, soccer games and practices, play dates, Patty's Collection, etc., there is not much time during the week to bake with the kids which they love so much. However, with Tastefully Simple products, we can still can make time to bake. It is so Simple!

Today, we made the Truffle Fudge Brownie Mix easy to prepare and so delicious!

The ingredients

So Simple, my kids can do it

Mix, pour in a dish and bake

This was not in the directions

Perfect Brownies. Yummy!

By the time I reached for my camera... some were already missing :)

Now it's the time to stock up for holiday entertaining dishes and gifts. I will definitely will be calling Molly to order Tastefully Simple for my Holiday Party this year!

Quote for the Day ~ 9.26.11

2011-09-26T06:38:00.000-04:00

Dr. Seuss. My son has been reading his books since he was four. We love his books and we love his quotes!

Monogram Me

2011-09-25T09:17:00.000-04:00

Monograms will always be an elegant and timeless way to adorn a special keepsake. No doubt your family and friend would always welcome a personalized gift.

See how you can be creative and make some memories for you and your family. A monogram has endless possibilities and Patty's Collection can do it for you!

Which one is your favorite monogram?

Change in the Air...

2011-09-23T09:35:00.000-04:00

Today is the first day of fall! Get ready for changing leaves, bike rides and crisp weather. This is one of my favorite seasons. For us it's time to think of pumpkins, apple cider, spending time outdoors, and soon cuddling by the the fireplace.

What is your favorite part of fall?

Football Gear

2011-09-22T13:57:00.000-04:00

These are some of the football designs we made using the color purple for our Baltimore team the Ravens. Support your team every game with your football tee! These designs can be adapted with the colors of your favorite team. You'll find these and more designs at Patty's Collection website.

Go Ravens!

Football goal

Football spike

Football patch

Are you ready for some football?!

Fall Wreaths

2011-09-20T00:07:00.000-04:00

Last week we started to feel a little bit of crisp cooler weather in Maryland. In anticipation of fall decorating that so many of us love to do, I’m sharing some fall wreaths. I was thinking about getting a new wreath for my front door and these were some of my favorite ones that I found online:

Love this one from Pottery Barn

A little simpler... also from Pottery Barn

I saw this on Martha Stewart...

maybe I could do this with this kids

Love this one from Frontgate

This is the one I bought at Wegmans a couple years ago...

and I will use it again this year!

Have you started decorating for the fall? What does your front door look like?

Quote for the Day ~ 9.19.11

2011-09-19T08:14:00.000-04:00