link luv roundup

this photo reminds of when i used to have the time to daydream.....

1) love these little shoes and the blog as well.
2) turn a cropped cardigan into a baby cardi over on a beautiful mess.
3) struggling with a small kid's room? why not turn a closet into a sleeping area? check out this family's home tour over on design sponge. what a great idea!
4) i've been doing a lot of organizing lately and this tutorial on the mother huddle is on my to make list.

- i'm crossing my fingers that anna maria horner posts the free tute for this baby zigzag quilt sooner than later, i'm in love with it!!!
- dana from made has an adorable easter craft up over on v&co. this week.
1) sew4home has a quick little tute up for making a soft, cushy playmate for the little ones in your life.
2) i've been on the lookout for a new duvet and have recently gotten interested in making one of my own. i came across this tutorial and couldn't resist linking.
3) can we say yummy? check out this chocolate bird's nest tutorial!
4) simply modern mom has the how to for this sweet traveling placemat tutorial.

- ohhh, bunny finger puppets how cute are you?
- vanessa shows us how to use up old dryer sheets and turn them into this adorable applique.

turn a tshirt into a quick fix grocery bag over on between the lines.

this is seriously the cutest kid's bday cake i have ever seen!!! (via craftzine)

ok, i could fill a whole post with my ranting over this pic, but decided to try and contain myself. i seriously got depressed seeing gisele in this pic and interview for vogue with her new baby who is like what - 6 weeks old or something? seriously, how are normal mom's supposed to live up to this? and we wonder why we get depressed?

1) if you have any hemp kicking around the house why not whip up these fun coasters?
2) pretty little hearts....isn't this quilt sweet?
3) learn how to make a staple free matchbook over at daisy janie. (via craftzine)
4) salvage an old bulletin board into this lovely patchwork one.

- get the how to for this rose belt diy and even learn how to make a matching one for your little girl.
- i doubt i'll be making any maternity clothes from now until may, but for all you gorgeous preggos out there here's a great skirt refashion!

1) this mama makes stuff turned a western shirt into this yoked girl's skirt - so friggin cute!!!
2) keep your outfits organized with this day of the week hanger tags tutorial from the creative maven.
3) great pattern for this tea towel apron over on 3 sweet p's.
4) i'm not sure i could carry off these stripes but i still love this sweater pattern from pickles.

1) the object project has a post up for a free download of one of the quilts from the e-book "sew expecting".
2) what little girl wouldn't love one of these plush ballet bunnies? get the how to here.
3) head over to bliss in a teacup to drool over these gorgeous wooden buntings! such a great take on the bunting!
4) adventures in dressmaking has a wealth of refashions on her site. check out this tshirt refab.


1) the newest free issue of viva la moda is up for our drooling purposes.
2) learn how to turn 2 pillowcases into this handy bag from the sewing dork.
3) check out this trestle bench makeover on censational girl.
4) i've been enjoying this book "alchemy arts - recycling is chic" by kate mackay and ki jennings.

things i'm luving this week:

- learn how to make a pair of custom yoga pants over on threadbanger.
- i can't wait to try some of these recipes for making your own kitchen soap. (via craft gossip)
- great diy for making fabric printer sheets out of ingredients in your own home.
- i've been on the lookout for a new booster seat and spotted this roundup on ohdeedoh.
- join in on the sock fun design contest over on "exercise before knitting".
- sew an easy t-shirt shrug with the cottage home.
- ok, i'm counting down the days till the new sex and the city movie is out, here's the link to the trailer...fabulous!!!
- i flipped over this dress refashion that melissa made along with the skirt for her daughter to match! i cannot believe these came from such an ugly dress.

what are you luving this week? do you have a tutorial you would like to see up here next week? send me an email!

p.s. if any of you featured in the roundup would like a "featured on luvinthemommyhood" button for your blog just send a quick email my way to luvinthemommyhood@yahoo.ca and i'll send you one right over - thanks for your support :)

a small celebration - part one

i had some plans for this month on the site and due to my giant belly, bad back, and hubby working so much these last few weeks they seemed to have gotten waylaid..haha. the plans were to celebrate..............

luvinthemommyhood turning "1"!!!!!

yep, it's our little blogiversary. it was in march last year that i turned what was a personal blog for family into this passion of mine. it's been tons of fun and an amazing ride watching it grow and i am so excited to see what this next year holds for us. i'm also very grateful and thankful for all my wonderful readers that come by and visit, it makes my days just that much more enjoyable - you guys mean a lot to me and even if we have never met face to face i consider you all my friends :)

so i'm a bit sorry to say instead of giveaways and guest posts we will be having more of a quieter bday celebration for our first year. i thought it would be fun to take a look back at the year (or an introduction for all of you who are new to the blog) and all the fun things that have been going on in our "neighbourhood". so here and there until the end of the month i'll be posting a few of these celebration posts.

luvinthemommyhood will also be undergoing a face lift, so bear with us as some changes are being made on the site to make things easier to find and a bit more spiffy if you ask me :) just in case you are wondering, those little hearts on the top of the sidebar are for you to click on to join/follow luvinthemommyhood. you can subscribe in a reader/email, follow us on twitter, join our facebook group, our flickr group and our you tube channel all from one loving little section. i hope you like it and find it a bit easier to find luvinthemommyhood around the internet. you can also join us via the "google friend connect" that you can find a bit lower on the sidebar. i have to admit i don't use this myself as i use google reader to keep in touch with all of you but i decided to make this function easier for those of you who do use it to find, so c'mon, join in, subscribe and let's start this party!

to start off, a lot of people ask or email questions about the blog and me and how things started. here's 2 interviews that i've had the pleasure to be asked to take part in. i hope they answer some of your questions and maybe you'll find out something new about me as well.

interview with handmade news - thanks sara! i'm honored to make the front page!

interview with mique from 30 handmade days - thanks mique! i am still thrilled you even thought of me :)

speaking of interviews.....y'all know how much i love the "moms in the mommyhood" section on our blog. it's one of my fave posts to do out of the month and i have to admit, i just love getting that sneak peek into someones life that i wouldn't normally have ever met or found out about, plus it involves one of my fave things to do - chat! it's tons of fun and each one of you talented ladies means a lot to me. thanks to all of you for taking the time to be part of my little "neighbourhood", i truly do appreciate it! here's a flashback at our year of moms...

if you are new to the mommyhood, our "moms in the mommyhood" features a new mom monthly who currently has their own business (doesn't matter what kind). we try to sit down and have a virtual cup of coffee and ask them all the fun, little questions that we are dying to know. we also try to get a glimpse into their lives and what it's like to have your own business and be the boss of your kids at the same time. we are always on the lookout for new moms to feature. if you know someone or you would like to be featured in this spot, please send us an email at luvinthemommyhood@yahoo.ca. don't be shy - we can't wait to meet you!

click on the images below to read our
"moms in the mommyhood" interviews :)

don't worry the party isn't over yet.....we've got way more to come, so stay tuned! next up this week in our small celebration - a look back at our tutorials and crafty fun in the mommyhood!

etsy monday in the mommyhood

"The innocent seldom find an uncomfortable pillow."
~ William Cowper

1) girl / boy head pillow by vintage jane
2) flora nova lil hoot by manic muffin totes
3) owl pillow by nora jane
4) mother duck ducklings hand appliqued pillows by room to romp

i've had baby decor on my mind as the creative nesting sets in around our household. i have had little energy to craft but seem to manage to find it somewhere to get a few new projects on the go. i'll hopefully have a few things to share in the next few weeks, but in the meantime i thought it would be fun to look up some cute baby room pillows on etsy. it was hard to pick just 4! i found tons, and i mean tons of great stuff on there for this kind of thing. definitely a must take a peek if you are looking for handmade goods for your nursery. the nice thing i noticed was that there was a lot of customizable pillows available. so pop over and get ready to drool. sorry wallets...haha.

what's your fave thing to buy for a nursery? fave thing to make for that new baby?

the lovely lovelies - susannah tucker

first off a giant thank you too all of you who voted for us on the lovelies. i can't remember if i mentioned that we won 2nd place in our category "best handmade blog" and also 2nd place overall out of all the categories! i was over the moon! you guys are the best, thank you so much!

as a little nice surprise i got to pick myself a lovely goodie out of the prize box. i was thrilled to see that a pic i had been oohing and ahhhing over was there and it was going to be coming home to me to be proudly hung in the girl's room. the print is called "today would be a lovely day to be a butterfly" by the ever so talented photographer susannah tucker...yes, insert my drool here please. nevermind that she has mad camera skills, she is also a total sweetheart! i am more than proud to sport one of her photos in my home.


you can take a peek at some of her goodies for sale in her pretty etsy shop here, her photo blog here and also on her website - her portfolio is to die for! she's got everything from photographs, photo blocks, gift cards and calendars. i think i want one of everything.

i couldn't bear not to post about her when i got my pic in the mail yesterday all the way from australia. so thank you susannah, for gifting me this wonderful prize and for all the sweet emails we have exchanged. my daughter loves the photograph and so do we.

who's your fave photographer of the moment? any fave pics you want to share?

All Images Copyright 2010 - Susannah Tucker, All Rights Reserved

etsy in the mommyhood

If pregnancy were a book they would cut the last two chapters. ~Nora Ephron, Heartburn, 1983

1) XL back relief pack organic flaxseed/rice lavender scented by comfy creations
2) organic back ache balm by homestead herbal
3) microwaveable heating pad therapy spa pillow neck wrap by bella posh pillows
4) microwaveable hot/cold therapy pillow corn bag set by warm hugs corn bags

in case you missed my post on thursday, i hurt my back very badly on wednesday morning and have pretty much been bed bound since then. it sucked and still sucks. i managed to drag myself with my sister's help to the doctor on friday looking like a big bellied, crazy lady with a bad case of osteoporosis using a broken, ugly umbrella dragging for a cane, dragging herself down what felt like the longest hallway known to man. it was funny, embarrassing and sad all at that the same time. it turns out i sprained my lower back - ouch! i'm happy to say i'm feeling a bit better and can now stand up higher than my waist, in other words you could no longer use my back as a serving tray :P

i think that was the hardest part for me, not being able to walk. i give credit to all you preggos out there suffering from sciatica, i thank my lucky stars that it wasn't that and there is a chance i will feel better before the labor and delivery. i can tell you this much though, i sure won't be picking up my daughter anytime soon and putting her in her car seat. not a good idea. what i will be doing is resting, using heat pads, stretching, praying the hubs will give me a back massage and wishing for a miracle...haha.

image via

thank you from the hubs and i for all your kind words and emails over the weekend, it meant a lot to me to have all of your guy's support. especially when i was feeling really blue and fearing i was going to be stuck in my bed till may...eeek and crying my eyes out wondering how i was going to look after my daughter during tax season!

you all know what's coming next.....yep, that's right, i decided to check out etsy for some back pain relief goodies and i have to say, there are some lovely, lovely, heat packs available. why have an ugly one when you could have one covered in amy butler fabric???

any of you out there suffering from back pain during pregnancy? any tips for me?

link luv roundup

1) isn't this pic just lovely?
2 & 3) get the diy for these pretty wall decors from the shop ruche. the first wall is a natural peel-able fabric wallpaper and the 2nd is flowers made from butcher paper.

1) easter is on it's way and small mag has cute project for egg cosies.
2) add some color to a room with this tute on how to make a zippered throw pillow over on design sponge.
3) or make a sham style pillowcase with prudent baby.
4) i love the applique refashion for revamping a pretty tee over on blue eyed freckle.

ok, time to insert a lot of drool on my part. i heart anna maria horner and when this new pattern popped up in my reader i just about fell out of my chair. so lovely, i want, i need to have this pattern.....

1) ok, seriously people, is this not the cutest oven mitt? i went to go buy it and what a surprise, it was sold out - boo hoo. too pretty not to link to though. (via sfgirlbybay)
2) i am a huge fan of pickles, and no, i don't mean the kind you eat, though i love those too. this pretty waffle hat is next up on my hat knitting list. get the free pattern here.
3) i think this is a pattern for a reusable grocery bag that i might actually make!
4) i heart craft hope and heart even more that they have a book coming out! click here for more info.

- yippee! it's almost time for made by rae's "spring top week"! i cannot wait!!! while i'm not entering i love watching all the entries and seeing the winner of this popular contest!
- the purl bee shows us how to make some fresh spring napkins.

1) mique of thirty days has a great tutorial for this spring top for your little ones.
2) ummmmmm, these are adorable!!! (via a beautiful mess)
3) find out how to whip up a layered knit skirt for your little girl.

- this mama makes stuff has a darling little how to on making a baby bonnet from a hankie!
- want to find out how to line your drawers with pretty paper? young house love shows you how.

1) come and see the seitz has a nice tutorial for making your own cute pair of panties. looking for more of these? check out the roundup we did last year!
2) why not try your hand at making some pillows from vintage tea towels?
3) dana, do you ever sleep? haha! make some fun crafts for st. patrick's day over on made. love the split peas!
4) noodleheads shows you how to make a fold over bag, so pretty!

1) one of my new fave blogs "from an igloo" has got a lovely tute for making this scrappy clutch! i can't wait to make this one!
2) craftzine shows us how to make an easy ribbon rosette.
3) how cute is this idea for photo pencils from mary janes and galoshes?
4) got some corduroy kicking around waiting to be repurposed? why not try turning it into a pretty diamond wale pillow?

love megan has the loveliest tutorial for turning rope into this pretty yet simple necklace. what a great idea! (via craft gossip)

1) if you treasured pia jane bijkerk's first book you'll love her second "amsterdam made by hand". it's available for pre-order now.
2) threadbanger has a roundup right after my own heart! check out all the fingerless mitts - perfect for us stroller pushing mommas!!!
3) i love the simplicity of this quick leather bracelet. get the how to here.
4) jessica of happy together refashions a cardigan into this cute top.
5) i want to learn how to make these pretty knit vase cosies! (via decor8)

1) i can't wait to get a good look at the book "alabama studio style".
2) looking to make your own diaper changing pad that you can actually wipe down instead of wash? head here for the how to from my creative stirrings.
3) isn't this the cutest little bike basket? and yep, you can make one too! find out how to here. (via craft gossip)
4) turn those boot cut jeans into skinny jeans with this tute from mmmcrafts.

things i'm luving this week:

- this happy go lucky site all about what just made your day.
- anthropologie inspired refashion for the winding road tank.
- new free quilt pattern from oh fransson,
- get inspired from this gorgeous post filled with lovely packages.
- scared to try an invisible zipper like me? sew 4 home shows us how to get over our fears.
- we all long for anthropologie goodies enough already, now they are branching out into weddings!!! omg, how much more can we be expected to handle???
- making it lovely has a great post up with diy painting tips, tricks and a step by step guide.
- new issue of lmnop is out now for free download!
- counting coconuts has a great post on making your little ones a st.paddy's day sensory tub complete with green/gold playdough.
- i want everything from the shop wood and wool stool.

what are you luving this week? do you have a tutorial you would like to see up here next week? send me an email!

p.s. if any of you featured in the roundup would like a "featured on luvinthemommyhood" button for your blog just send a quick email my way to luvinthemommyhood@yahoo.ca and i'll send you one right over - thanks for your support :)

keeping it natural in the mommyhood

i've been meaning to write a little bit about some products i've been trying out lately in my attempt to keep my beauty products as natural as possible. if any of you know me, you know i love my all natural and organic beauty/body products. i suffer from endometriosis and all those nasty chemicals and yucky stuff in my creams, soaps, shampoo etc are on my hit list. i try to avoid them if i can and make sure my daughter avoids them as well.

i am a huge fan of kiss my face products but felt the need to mix things up a bit lately. i thought i would share what i've been using lately with all of you and get some feedback on what your favorite natural or organic product line is that you use and why it's important to you as a woman and as a parent.

i've been a long time drooler of burt's bees products but have only recently had a chance to try some. i have to say that i am so happy with their products. i have had friends recommend them for years but just never seemed to get my hands on some for myself.

1) naturally ageless line smoothing eye creme
2) replenishing lip balm with pomengranate oil
3) almond milk beeswax hand creme
4) radiance exfoiliating body wash

my fave out of the products above has to be the naturally ageless line smoothing eye cream (which i now need) and the almond milk beeswax hand creme...oh la la, this cream is to die for. it smells delicious and actually helps my poor, dry hands without being greasy. the eye cream is fantastic and to my surprise, i did notice a difference in my skin tone and the bags under my eyes.

i also like that burt's bees labels every product with a "natural bar" score allowing customers to clearly identify the high level of natural ingredients used in that particular product. they use recyclable containers/packing and adhere to a strict set of guidelines that meet "the natural standard". all their products are made using a natural process as well.

to learn more about burt's bees values, processes and ingredients click here.

the other company i am super happy to have found is the green beaver company. this one is canadian! whoop, whoop - go canada! the things i love about this company is that they are:

certified organic, chemical free, pure canadian, have a variety of vegan products, and only use biodegradable ingredients, recyclable containers and packaging. they are striving to continue to introduce products made with canadian ingredients that are organically grown or ecologically wild crafted from coast to coast.

they have a great page on their website outlining all the bad things that are not in their products and what harm those ingredients can cause. click here to read more about the harmful chemicals commonly found in other products that we should strive to avoid and here to learn more about this company.

i've been using their 100% natural green tea facial moisturizer and eye make up remover. i've been very happy with both and plan to continue trying more of their product lines.

what about our kids? bonus is that both of the above companies also carry product lines for our little ones. this is a great thing. it happens to me all the time that i find i company i like but can't find one for mackenzie. i plan to try to get my little hands on these two products soon to try out on mackenzie:


1) green beaver jr. foaming body wash
2) baby bee bubble bath (tear free)

sorry this post may sound like one giant ad (no, i'm not getting paid to talk about these), but this is truly something that i feel is important for us as women, mothers and for the environment. if we all made a small change in the products we use we can make a big change in our health, our children's health and in the life of our precious planet. ok, enough preaching...haha, i'm done now. your turn to talk, i would love to hear your thoughts below.

what is your favorite all natural or organic beauty care line to use? who do you recommend? what line do you use for your children?

etsy monday in the mommyhood academy awards edition - best dressed, tears with sandra bullock and a lap dance with hugh jackman

"no one wants to do it alone"

~ neil patrick harris (surprise opening of the 2010 oscars)

1) silk rose gown by red doll
2) old hollywood earrings red carpet ready by lkfarnsworth studio
3) double flower love ring by kathi roussel
4) gorgeous origami dress by red doll

i love the oscars. i love to plop down on the couch making what i call my "nest" and plan to not move for a good 3-4 hours (except for food/pee breaks of course) and drool over the clothes, jewelry and the hair. i thought it would be fun, not for the pocketbook, but for the eye to take a peek at etsy for gowns and jewels. i won't lie, it was fun, and there was a puddle of drool on my keyboard over some of the lovely goodies i found on there.

my fave gowns of the night had to be firstly rachel mcadams - swoon, followed by the simplistically stunning maggie gyllenhaal and then, i'm sure there is to be a love/hate war with people over this one, vera farmiga's marchesa gown. i loved it. i love ruffles. i love pretty gowns and could only imagine the time that went into making that gown.

i honor sandra bullock with a pretty runner up but mostly just because i love her and her speech was the best one of the night, yes, i had the kleenex out and the little bean and i had a good belly jiggling cry over the mom/child speech....insert a tear in my eye.

what was your favorite gown of the night? what oscar ensemble did you deem droolworthy and no....george clooney doesn't count..haha...

p.s. did anyone see the barbara walters special? was it just me or did hugh jackman giving her a lap dance really freak you out?

weekend wishes

to read some dreamy fairy tales with my little girl and try to get out from..............

under this cloud we have been under this week.....................

to remember what it feels like to do this........

bask in all the gorgeous signs of spring in our lovely city of victoria, bc......

eat a lot, and i mean a lot of cantaloupe and fruit salad, my new fave craving now that salt has become my enemy (damn you swollen legs)....

and to enjoy the company of a friend visiting from out of town who has know me since i was 2, enjoy dinner without kids or hubbies, good girl chat with maybe a bit of gossip thrown in and the comfort of hanging out with someone who has known you through good and bad times without you having to explain all the little things that make you - you.

what are you up to this weekend? do you have a friend who has known you your whole life?

image 1, 2, 3, 4 via tumblr, image 5 via flickr.

link luv roundup

1) oh my gosh, this apron with built in potholders in the corners from the mother huddle is so adorable! i think i need to make one of these!
2) i'm adoring the new march anthropologie.
3) this would be such a fun project for the little ones for easter! find out how to grow your own grass eggs over on fly through our window.
4) i've been spotting this wonderful, bright and colorful lampshades all over the blogosphere lately - i heart them! want one of your own? check out the shop "the owls are hunting" and get ready to drool!!!

i can't stop looking at images of spring this week.....i miss the sunshine we had last week. (via sfgirlbybay)

- oh, hello friend is hosting the fab lovely package exchange again this year. head on over here to enter.
- or enter disney's "ruffles your stuff" competition over on her blog! this is sure to be filled with goodies galore! get ready to sew up a storm. i can't wait to see the entries!

- samster mommy has a fun tute up for our little ones to diy some baby toddler yoga pants.
- mmmmm, i love lemons and these lemon tarts are calling my name over on the design sponge.


1) cute pattern for a reversible bib over on prudent baby this week.
2) there's been lots of zipper tutes floating around lately. i love this zipper daisy tutorial over on diary of a craftaholic or check out threadbanger's roundup of zipper projects this week.
3) learn how to turn a potholder into a case for your glasses over at "two shades of pink".
4) vanessa from v and co. has a great tute up on sew mama sew for some fun decorations made from white t-shirts.

1) quilt up your little one a scottie dog with this free pattern.
2) i am a button addict and flipped over this button necklace diy at joy's hope.
3) skip to my lou shows us how to make this cute apron from a tea towel!

- i am a big fan of skinny laminx's fabric line and just had to post about her prints inspired from her collection of vintage mugs and tea pots.

1) get in on the fun on presser foot and make the "maternity or not frock".
2) jill's got a handy little tute up on how to refashion a big tee to a maternity top.
3) then knit up a "love cocoon" with this free patter over on "mrs missy muffet". (via whip up)

the new issue of small magazine is out and it's filled to the brim with lovely, lovely goodies!

1) fellow canadian blogger "from an igloo" has two fun tutes up for your little ones. first up the twirly t-shirt dress and then......
2) the one hour sundress. (via one pretty thing)
3) clean out your wardrobe of old tees by making up this pretty wreath from scoutie girl. (via dollar store crafts)
4) add a tutu to your little girl's onesie with the help of jessica from happy together.

things i'm luving this week:

- that thanks to all of your lovely votes and for being such great and loyal readers we came in 2nd place overall in "the lovelies" awards!! whoop whoop! big hugs to all of you who voted, i really appreciate all your kind words!!
- maggie has a fun tute up for making a glazed fabric button ring and a stretch knit pregnancy band over on her blog "smashed peas and carrots".
- fun sewing tute for a simple smocked skirt from come and see the seitz.
- love this wrangle me tee from "i am momma hear me roar".
- found this site to be lots of fun for all you fellow diy addicts.
-great ideas for an oscar themed party from twig and thistle. click here for part 1 and here for part 2.
- make a two minute no sew felt diaper for all those dolls and stuffies your little one loves to change.
- sew up your own hanger space saver with help from little birdie secrets.
- love the idea of the site www.teachamantofix.com and can't wait to see what he comes up with! the site is for both boys and girls and promises to teach us the basic skills for diy from a handyman's perspective.

what are you luving this week? do you have a tutorial you would like to see up here next week? send me an email!

p.s. if any of you featured in the roundup would like a "featured on luvinthemommyhood" button for your blog just send a quick email my way to luvinthemommyhood@yahoo.ca and i'll send you one right over - thanks for your support :)

etsy monday in the mommyhood

go, canada go!!!!!!!!!

1) i love vancouver zipper pouch by kukubee
2) olympic alpine beast by woolde beast
3) olympics 14k gold filled necklace by made by sam
4) olympic leather wristbands by leather made nice

go, canada go! you'll have to excuse my olympic cheer today! i've managed to keep it off the site thus far but couldn't resist having a little fun and a whole lotta pride over the fact that canada kicked some butt at the olympics! i'm all hyped up after team canada's mens hockey team scored the winning goal in a nail biter of a game in overtime yesterday! i swear i almost went into early labor over the anxiety! nice to see both the women and the mens hockey teams grab the gold!

i took a little peek to see if some of that canadian olympic pride was popping up over on etsy and you bet it was! i found some cute little gems over there to help you show off your olympic pride! and don't worry, there was more than just canadian goodies, but ya know, being canadian, a girl's got to support her country, eh!

sad to see the olympics are over, but after living in vancouver for so long (i'm in victoria now) i'm sure the city is ready to get back to normal again.

what have you enjoyed about the olympics? pros/cons? your fave sport to watch? mine was the ice dance (figure skating) and the snowboarding - fabulous!!!!

weekend wishes and the ever growing belly

i'm pooped, tired and ready for a good rest-filled weekend. this week has felt very, very looooong. so due to my 30 week belly weighing me down, running after my almost 3 year old, chores and a low iron level i'm going to keep this post short and sweet and leave you with some belly shots and some giggles from my little one.

and before you ask, yep, that's right, i'm wearing horizontal stripes. the top is a hand me down from my baby sis and i figured hey, why not, it's the only time in my life i would dare, and i mean dare, to wear these damn stripes cause you all know a girl who's got curves don't need no lines showing how wide they are...haha. it was in my "to be refashioned for mack" pile when i thought hey, it's stretchy and not too warm, i'm putting this baby on, and yes, i wore it out in public too - it's just been that kind of week.

30 weeks

giggles on the swing

wishing you all a wonderful weekend with a bit of a break from the kids giving you a chance to put your feet up, do some crafting, reading, napping or whatever else does your heart good kind of weekend.

what are your plans this weekend? you as tired as i feel? let's commiserate...haha.

p.s. ok my loyal readers...there's only 2 days left to vote for lil'ol me...we're so close, yet so far away...i'm up against some stiff competition...so i need your help. please send a little vote my way for "the lovelies". it's fast and easy, just a simple comment or tweet will do, just follow the link below to show your love. i'll be crossing my fingers :) for those who have already voted - love ya!

*all images luvinthemommyhood

link luv roundup

1) i'm drooling over the new additions to "cloud 9 fabrics". i'll take a few yards of each please!
2) creature comforts has some tips and a little diy on making your own photo topped mini-notepads, so pretty.
3) have you been eyeing butterfly chandeliers? learn how to make your own over on the mother huddle.
4) i love the idea of these rubber lace coasters, what a great and inexpensive idea!

being hugely preggo makes me have dreams at night where i feel as light as this dancer looks in this pic.

a few months ago i was on a mad hunt for a tea cozy pattern and didn't really find much that excited me. well today i came across the shop retro mama and wowsa - these are stunning! i just might have to cave in and buy this one! check out her blog too!

the long thread shows you how to make some pretty spring pieced coasters to match up with the tea cozies we're all gonna make :)

1) oh linda, you keep my to make lists so long...here's a wonderful little clutch repurposed out of a suit coat! how fab! you can check out her tute here.....
2) or linda shows you how to add an adorable zipper ruffle to give some attitude to a basic pair of flats.
3) i'm in love with these cloud shaped marshmallows.
4) "i am momma hear me roar" has a perfect tutorial to tie in with all the boy goodies floating around lately. learn how to make this hurley inspired hoodie here.

speaking of boy stuff, thimbly things has a tutorial for a soft baby book that i cannot wait to make for the little bean! i love this!

i heart pot holders. they are so fun and so addicting...almost as addicting as granny squares. i loved the latest ones over on noodleheads. something about the colour and that adorable house block just won me over. go take a peek and while you're there, check out her new craft room...i'm jealous :)

1) wanna make your own fabric wall decals? click here for the how to.
2) these pretty paper mailboxes could easily be in your home! get the tutorial to make your own over on simply modern mom, my daughter would love playing with one of these!
3) while your at it, why not make your wee one a laminated kids wallet to play store with as well?

1) one of the few fab maternity tutorials i have found during my pregnancy is this lovely little wrap top from megan nielsen, and yep, it's a free download! get sewing!
2) oh granny squares, you are killing me...i can't stop finding new ones. i absolutely adore this blanket pattern from nova made. this is next on my granny square list, the hexagons are fab! (via whip up)
3) fun with mama shows us how to add crawling knee pads to our little ones pants.
4) one of my fave blogs to read "a beautiful mess" has a great diy for a quirky bunny doll, i love that big ol sloppy grin on his face!
5) ummmm....bakerella....red velvet cake...need i say more? please wipe the drool off of my face....

1) i love the blog kenziepoo and was super excited to read that she is starting an ezine that will be debuting in the spring entitled "la petite magazine". can't wait!!!! her blog is always filled with fab finds for kids, i can only imagine how addicting the mag will be!
2) spruce up a simple top with some spring time flair! find out how here.
3) get the tutorial to change your place mat into a fresh handbag over on little birdie secrets.
4) need a swaddle blanket for your new baby? prudent baby has a new free tutorial up so you can make one of your very own.
5) make a charm pack reversible purse with moda bake shop.

two of my fave lady quilters in the whole world have great tutes up this week! i only dream of one day being able to quilt as well as these two uber-talented women. i bow down to you two girls....check out vanessa's scrapbuster banner tute here or join in on rachel from ps i quilt's pinwheel sampler quilt along.

things i'm luving this week:

- that this site has started up - "the modern quilt guild".
- oh my poor heart, i just spotted the new orla kiely spring/summer 2010 collection and i'm in love!!!
- this square flower embellished shirt tute over on smashed peas and carrots.
- spiffy up your empty wipes container by turning it into a clutch with this how to over on "shannon makes stuff".
- all the fun tent tutorials over at obsessively stitching for tent week.
- pink picket fence the blog now has a pretty new etsy shop! go take a peek and drool over her goodies! congrats!
- jessica from happy together has a new pattern up in her shop for a cute mod tie shirt pattern.
- the new beta "makers market".

what are you luving this week? do you have a tutorial you would like to see up here next week? send me an email!

p.s. if any of you featured in the roundup would like a "featured on luvinthemommyhood" button for your blog just send a quick email my way to luvinthemommyhood@yahoo.ca and i'll send you one right over - thanks for your support :)

don't forget to vote!!! there's only 4 days left to show your love :)

etsy monday in the mommyhood

"Knitting is a boon for those of us who are easily bored. I take my knitting everywhere to take the edge off of moments that would otherwise drive me stark raving mad." ~Stephanie Pearl-McPhee, At Knit's End: Meditations for Women Who Knit Too Much

1) crochet hook organizer by sprout
2) large knitting needle clutch by the bag studio
3) knitting needle case organizer by atelier de soyun
4) tuck and roll crochet hook/knitting needle/dpn organizer by coyote craft

in the quest for doing some early spring cleaning and attempting to get my wool stash and supplies in order i have been on the lookout for some new needle organizers. mine are a disaster!!! a mess, total chaos. i have an old handmade one from someone, not sure who, that is a pain in the ass to use and literally makes more of a mess every time i open it. i would love to have the time/pattern to make my own, but in the meantime with baby #2 on the way soon the above cases would fit the bill perfectly!

what do you use to organize your needles? what about circulars? do you have a tutorial you recommend for making your own organizer? i'd love to hear about it!

ps. we made it to the top 5!! yippee! this is the last week for voting and i need your guys help. please click on the box below and comment/tweet your vote if you love "luvinthemommyhood"! thanks for all your support you guys - you rock!

weekend wishes

for more shadow belly kisses from my little girl........

for more signs of spring........

and flower fun........

and these gorgeous cherry blossoms that are starting to line our pretty streets....

to stare into these beautiful blue eyes
(hoping the new little bean has them too)....

and to have plenty moments of stillness.

the sun has been shining the last few days and let me tell you it feels wonderful, fresh, warm and so invigorating! i've been feeling bad for all the people enduring those winter storms right now, but we get enough of our fair share here in canada so i'm happy to have the sun for a change.

spring is definitely in the air, the streets are starting to bloom and fill with cherry blossoms, new growth is sprouting everywhere, my belly included, and it is perfect park weather. i didn't get in the "moments in the mommyhood" post this week so i decided to mix it up in the weekend wishes and use my pics instead of my usual sources.

i'm hoping for mackenzie to have plenty moments of stillness, like the one above, so i can get some sewing, crocheting or knitting done while watching the olympics - go canada, go! she doesn't nap anymore so it's a rare occassion for her to pass out in our house...haha. plus i have a new tutorial for everyone that's just begging to be finished.

what are your weekend wishes? are you in sunshine or snow & which do you prefer?

*all images luvinthemommyhood

p.s. just one day left for you guys to vote for luvinthemommyhood for the "lovelies" award for category handmade.

link luv roundup

vanessa from v and co., one of my fave bloggers and blogs (and one of our former moms in the mommyhood), has an adorable quilt tutorial up at moda bake shop this week!

ohhhh, i want this pillow! they are from a shop called plytextiles and are made from 100% recycled sweaters that are then felted and turned into these charming treasures - how lovely! (via decor 8)

learn how to make some cute belts for the little boys (or girls) in your life with this tute from meg from "elsie marley" over on "made by rae" for celebrate the boy month.

if you've been wondering where marichelle of "heart handmade" has gone, well she's now over at the fabulously lovely "nice package", a new collaboration consisting of her and ez from "creature comforts". those two together as a team....i seriously don't know how you could go wrong :)

i am swooning over their new shop/blog/site. it's filled with pretty diy's, tutes and wonderful packaging ideas with lots of goodies for sale!!! go on over and drool with me! you can find the above pic's how to there and make some of your very own romantic matchbooks.

i'm drooling over the new "built by wendy" collection. i think i seriously want each piece! (via unruly things)

oh gosh, just look at this little guy! so cute! i just wanna kiss those cheeks! ok, ok, enough about the baby, take a look at that hat!!! sew liberated has a free tutorial up for "celebrate the boy" month so head on over and get sewing - i love this!

sew much ado has a great and quick little tute to make leg warmers to go with her skirt refashion from last week's link luv roundup. these seem to be all the rage lately, i better get cracking and make mackenzie a pair before it's summer!

this hat and scarf are made from a man's shirt - yep, can you believe it! great job! you can find the instructions to make your own over at instructables.

melissa from isly has a great little post showing how you can sport some spring time fresh pom poms in your hair! perfect for you and your little girl!

i've been on the lookout for great baby room tutorials and this one from "prudent baby" shows you how to make a custom diaper pad cover.

lil'blue boo has the sweetest lil'tute up today....oh how i want a pair of those piggies for my socks! learn how to make animal sock pompoms for your little ones tootsies!

isn't this guy cute? don't you wanna make one? if you do, head on over to chez beeper bebe for the pattern and tute. (via whip up)

1) dana from made has a tutorial up that i definitely need! i have been a bit chicken to try dying any clothes of mackenzie's but now after her reading how to, i'm sold! go check it out!
2) dwell has new bedding coming out in april - so i hear....i'm lusting after this set. ohhhhh, if only i could afford to buy this set, or at least get target to finally ship to canada so i can buy their other line there. damn you target!!
3) make a nifty wallet out of the cuff from a men's dress shirt over on replayground. (via craftzine)
4) samster's mommy has a handy how to up for turning a sweater into a tunic for your little girl.

ruffles and stuff is keeping my link luv's busy the last couple of weeks - wowsa! she definitely has no shortage of projects lately! this week she has a fantastic and super handy roundup on how to make your wee one's clothes last longer once they are stained, too small..etc.

things i'm luving this week:

- i heard and saw possibly one of the most romantic things of all time. i'm not going to even attempt to explain this...but please, just go over to "jen loves kev" (one of my fave fashion reads) and check out this post...it will make your heart melt and maybe bring a tear to your eye. the best part is that you can join in and spread the love! (hint - it's in the video that starts off with their wedding)

- a sweet and easy pillow sham tutorial over on fussy monkey biz.

- the new sade album and lady antebellum, can't stop playing these two this week.

- issue 6 of parasol mag is out for downloading

- simply stated from real simple has a post with their top 10 design hubs for parents.

- that there is a "so you think you can decorate" starting now too! check it out!

- the new issue of modern handmade child.

- the sewing dork has a little knit pants refashion.

- great listing from mique of thirty handmade days for links for beginner sewers with how to's and projects.

- all of your super sweet votes for me in "the lovelies"! i appreciate every single one of them - you guys rock! thanks for all the super sweet words, i treasure them and it feels great to know others are enjoying what i love to do.

what are you luving this week? do you have a tutorial you would like to see up here next week? send me an email!

p.s. if any of you featured in the roundup would like a "featured on luvinthemommyhood" button for your blog just send a quick email my way to luvinthemommyhood@yahoo.ca and i'll send you one right over - thanks for your support :)

loved by heidi klum - do you luv it?

motherhood maternity recently launched heidi klum's new maternity line "loved". i'm a bit sad that i am already in the third trimester and really trying to not buy any more maternity clothes because some of the items are super cute. i do have to admit though, that i was a bit disappointed by the line and was expecting a bit more flair and sass. i guess i wanted a bit more of "heidi", or the "heidi" that is on project runway in those fab one piece jumpsuits and strapless dresses to give us a line of clothes so that we can all look as hip and stylish as she does.

i think i'm bored of the big tunics and tight pants and was surprised that this is pretty much the whole line. i do have to admit that i LOVE those skinny jeans, they are fab. i wish i could have snagged a pair of those up a few months ago. i have a pair of motherhood maternity's new jeans with the flesh tone ultra thin nylon belly part and let me tell you, they are super, super comfy! much better than a huge hunk of lycra that shows through all your fave tops.

so, c'mon heidi, don't hog all those lovely, lovely outfits to yourself.....we all dream that we can even look as remotely stunning as you do preggers. i'm interested to see what she will add to the line next. i mean really, i can't even dare to dream that i could look that fab after so many kids, she is one lucky lady!

what do you guys think of the line? what's your fave piece?

p.s. our little family went swimming on the weekend are are all under the weather, darn public pools....so bear with me if there is no "link luv roundup" tomorrow.

p.s.s. don't forget to vote :)

etsy monday in the mommyhood

"The only place where housework comes before needlework is in the dictionary." ~Mary Kurtz

1) my grandmother's blanket by turtle murtle
2) colorful afghan pillow by atelier afra
3) florida everglades by popsicle stick
4) crocheted dot bag green & turqoise by artistik1979

i've been hooked by the granny square. she came and caught me this week. i've been going through my huge wool stash and trying to get some projects on the go for the baby when swoosh, i was sucked in by the granny square. how? by watching tv at 4:00am that's how. damn those late night/early morning craft shows. have any of you seen these? they lure me in every darn time.

heading into the third trimester has me up quite a bit at night, which usually ends with me being sucked into a knitting or quilting show on some learning channel. it's not a good thing. it usually takes me eons to go back to sleep because my mind starts spinning and filling with possible projects and i start to feel that familiar tingle in my fingers to work with my hands.

the other night i was up watching tv in bed and remembered this gorgeous pattern i had seen on sarah london's site. i sat straight up and said "i have to make this". it's now near the top of my list and will hopefully be a great big stash buster. in the meantime though, i thought it would be fun to help aide my new longing to make granny squares by seeing what all the ladies have been up to on etsy. i love all the above items! aren't they cheerful and perfect for spring?

if you're looking to learn how to do some serious granny square making, check out "meet me at mike's", scroll down the page and check out the left side bar for the links to her crochet school with the latest series of how-to's on granny squares.

what's your favorite crochet project? are you hooked on granny squares?

weekend wishes

that i won't cave into my cravings to eat about 10 of these lovely, lovely cupcakes.....

that my hubby would stop hating, and i mean hating, valentine's day..........

that i could find a photographer in my city to do a photo shoot for me to record my last pregnancy with little bean...........

and that they would do it for free or very little in exchange for some advertising and praise on my site...............

that a magical web designer will sweep in and save me from my blog housekeeping and help me to reach my goals for the site before the new baby arrives (insert last half of previous wish)..

and that this will be the weekend that i find my dream bedding so that i can finally love my bed again.

ok, ok, i know that's a lot of tricky wishes, but hey, a girl can dream right? i'm being quite honest though. i am on a hunt for the nicest and most talented photographer willing to help make one of my wishes come true. i never got a chance to have professional shots done in my 1st pregnancy and since this is my last baby i would really love to have some done. i'm all for bartering/trading services to cover the cost. do you know anyone? are you the person i'm looking for? email me :)

also, i've seen others do this before, i've got some big time goals for the functionality of this little ol site of mine, and have been painstakingly learning html and web design on my own during what little spare time i have and it's just not cutting it. in order to make things get to the point that i envision them i need some help. any designers out there willing to work with me in exchange for free advertising and tons of praise/recommendations on the site to help build your portfolio? email me :)

now, onto much more fun things....what are your weekend plans? are you a fan of valentine's day like i am stuck with a hubby who hates it? what are your weekend wishes?

p.s. don't forget to vote :)

images 1, 2, 4 & 6 via my tumblr page, image 3 - foshydog and 6 - derek gavey

we've been nominated for the lovelies!!!

yippee!! checked my email today and found out luvinthemommyhood has been nominated for a "lovelies" award in the blog:handmade section!!!!! can i say excited! super excited! i heart the lovely clusters site and their blog. gorgeous eye candy and a very fun way to shop! if you haven't been there, here's what they are all about:

"a place to browse beautiful handmade and vintage items from very creative artists and designers from around the world. Each item links to the sellers shop site where you can purchase and find more information."

go check it out, you won't regret it! rachel does a fabulous job creating beautiful and inspirational posts, i go over there just to drool and stare and all the loveliness of it all.

what about the lovelies award? well what can i say other than to shamelessly beg you to please, please, pretty please, go and make my preggo belly swell with pride and joy and vote for little ol' me at the lovelies! all you have to do is click the box below and leave a comment or tweet at the bottom of their post. the directions are listed there as well. voting is open until february the 28th!

thanks for your support and for your votes! i truly appreciate all of them!