The Bird's Papaya

Wee and Me GIVEAWAY {$25 shop credit}!!

2012-03-05T20:02:00.000-05:00

Wee and Me shop owner Kristin wants to give one of YOU a $25 shop credit!

How fantastic.

If you're a Mama, or a friend of a Mama, or a Mama of a Mama, etc...

then this shop needs to be on your radar!

Wee and Me is probably BEST known for their adorable pacifier clips, in many many styles!

But there's more...like these beautiful carseat canopies!

and I SO WISH I knew about these washable & reusable nursing pads while I was nursing...

LOVE IT!

Whoever wins this one is SUPER lucky...because $25 can get you a lot in this beautifully well priced shop!

Good luck everyone! Winner will be announced next Monday :)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

March Sponsor Lineup! Come meet the sidebar!

2012-03-04T13:03:00.000-05:00

Another great month for the sidebar here at The Bird's Papaya.

Makes me giddy, I tells ya.

First up this month's

FEATURED SPONSOR!

Specifically Random has been on the sidebar since last fall, and I'm so glad because I truly adore this shop and their products.

Specifically Random does custom fit headbands, and you order based on the size of your head (NO one-size-fits-all slippage and pinching).

Last year I got the chance to review a headband and chose the black yoga.
I measured my head and sent my measurements off and had this custom made!

Let me tell you, this headband was my BEST FRIEND earlier this week when I had the flu.

I wear it all the time, but never did I experience it in a form that was oh-so-needed for holding back my hair.

Take a rest, hubby....the headband's got this.

Here's some photos from the review last year. You can go here to read the full review.

Lets meet some new sponsors for March!

SHOP | FACEBOOK

save 25% off The {Posh} Daisy with coupon code "daisylove"

BLOG | SHOP | FACEBOOK

SHOP | FACEBOOK

BLOG | FACEBOOK

Here's some more sponsors that you may have met last month, but they're just as great this month too!! Check them out!

BLOG (clarendon lane) | SHOP (vinyl vineyard)

SHOP

BLOG

BLOG | SHOP | FACEBOOK

SHOP | FACEBOOK

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK

Meet Waffles

2012-03-02T21:59:00.002-05:00

A few days ago I told you about how we were approved to adopt a rescue pup from a nearby shelter.

On Wednesday we picked him up.

And crazy ensued.

Are you ever really prepared for a puppy?

I read so many articles and asked for so much advice.

Pressure was ON to get it right once we got home.

Day 1 (just the afternoon) - PURE CRAZY and many accidents (luckily he was pee pad trained).

Day 2 - Accident in the crate overnight, but otherwise NO accidents all day. Started catching on that outside is an OK place to "go".

Day 3 - had a couple accidents in the morning, then back to routine, and was on track all day!

Pretty remarkable.

Keeping in mind, he's nearly 4 months old (we think?)...so he's had lots of time to pick up bad habits.

Luckily, he's a smart boy and we're working hard to give him a successful start.

Even if I'm completely exhausted.

Who cares.

Look at this guy!

Love him.

OH MY HEART!

his ears flap in the wind...can it get ANY better?

Learning about crate training.

aka: "The Waffle House"

He actually loves it and it's been a huge part of his success.

Keep any puppy tips coming!

I love hearing what you all have to tell me.

With great anticipation...

2012-02-27T20:44:00.003-05:00

This week has been crazy...so I'll try and recap for you before the rest of the week becomes a ridiculous whirlwind of puppy love.

Yes....

PUPPY.

LOVE.

Settle in, it's a long story...but a good one!

Last fall, we said goodbye to my nearly 15 year old Shih-tzu x Maltese dog, Panda.

I probably kept her living a year past her due.

At the end, she was almost completely blind, deaf and has little control over her bladder.

To say the least, she was a mess.

But saying goodbye? well, I was a mess.

I got her when I was 12 years old.

She's been with me through my teen years, getting married, and having 3 kids.

I had prayed that when the decision needed to be made, I would know it, and thankfully that prayer was answered when I was bathing her one day and felt her body, and how it was all skin & bones.

She wasn't happy.

She was likely in pain.

She was scared.

I was holding onto her, and I think she was ready to say goodbye.

So we said it.

I told myself I could never ever do that again.

Then we watched Marley & Me the next week when it came on TV.

Salt on the wound, I know.

But somehow it helped. At the end of the movie, when Josh Grogan (Owen Wilson) talks about dogs and their unconditional love for "man" regardless of what car you drive, what house you live in, what job you have. I felt renewed. I also felt closure that the canine-human relationship is meant to be a shorter one. Panda was about 102 years old in dog years. Can I really ask for any more?

After watching Marley & Me...Jordan and I got talking.

Desires began bubbling up again to "one day" have a dog.

One day I was just standing in the kitchen, bawling over a memory of Panda and Jordan said "we're dog people! we need a dog!"

I wasn't there yet.

Dogs (especially puppies) are work.

Jordan wanted a "real" dog...one that he can run with and not have as "fluffy furniture" (Panda was 5lbs and not at all active).

Somehow, at some point Jordan started talking about Beagles.

Again, I wasn't there yet.

Then last week (on Family Day for us Canadians, also known as President's Day for you Americanos) we headed to the states for a day of shopping and stopped in a pet store and sure enough, there was a little 8 week old beagle.

Oh my gosh.

How did I not know?

THEY ARE FREAKING CUTE!

(danger, Sarah, danger!)

Then we took him out and played with him.

(alright it's all over now...)

Then they told us he was $1300.

(SCREEEEEECH. halt. stop. not happening.)

We came home, all puppy loved up, and I did what I always do...

OBSESS.

Kijiji, Craigslist, breeders, all of it.

I was looking high & low for a beagle puppy.

Then, my heart strings pulled to wanted a rescue dog...so I found a list of shelters in our area and began looking through their dogs.

About the 3rd shelter down in the list, I found a litter of 3 month old beagles.

RESCUE. BEAGLE. PUPPIES.

Is this actually happening?

We had to wait until Saturday to get to the shelter bc they had funny hours.

The puppies caregiver immediately wanted to pair us up with one of the pups,

shelter-named Winston.

When he came out I looked at Jordan and said "I'm going to cry, I'm going to cry" to which he said "don't cry! It's a puppy!".

He was soooo cute. The perfect combination of chunky and droopy ears.

I picked him up like a baby and he poked his nose into mine.

It was over. I was in love.

Jordan & our pup

(phone photo that does NO justice to his extreme cuteness in person)

I didn't think we even needed to see the others...but Jordan encouraged me to.

So we did...they were incredibly sweet, but not as comfortable with our busy, loud, affectionate family.

Back to "Winston".

We applied to adopt him.

We were to hear back TODAY on whether we were approved.

At around 9am this morning, we got the call.

He was ours.

Today we got the last supplies to bring him home.

We pick him up tomorrow.

Prepare yourself to be inundated with a plethora of beagle puppy photos in upcoming posts.

EEEEE!!!!!!!!

Spring yourself onto my sidebar! {March Sponsorship}

2012-02-23T22:23:00.002-05:00

Another month is fast approaching.

GOLLY GEE (yeah I said it) I am excited for Spring.

I'm still knee-deep in snow here.

over. it.

February has brought some FANTASTIC shops & blogs to my sidebar. I

have never been so happy to look at that grouping of buttons.

With March quickly coming, now is the time to book your March sponsorship spot.

If you decide to book a spot, you'll be featured in a March Sponsorship Lineup where you will give a blurb about your shop/blog/you and a photo of yourself to give a little peek into the minds and hearts behind each button on the sidebar.

The LARGE AD is sold out for March - but I only sell ONE per month, so April is the next available and pre-booking for it is open :)

Go here for all the info & stats and booking.

ALWAYS open to emails and inquiries.

Thanks lovelies!!

Fabric Rolled Rosettes {a tutorial}

2012-02-16T13:11:00.000-05:00

For oh-so-long I've been dying to make rolled rosettes like you see on wreaths and headbands. I've done the kind that you put on felt, but not a felt free style.

I scoured blogs, pinterest and more and came out with about a dozen different tutorials. So I took an afternoon, just me, my fabric scraps and my glue gun and went to try them out.

I came out with a small wealth of knowledge on making these (and a few burns) and got my 20 minute process down to about 5 minutes, thankfully.

All in all, I learned that you kinda have to keep ROLLING even if it looks WONKY.

I put together a tutorial for you all, because maybe you're just like me, and have been struggling to get these to look "right".

Here's a photo step-by-step:

1: Cut a strip of fabric approx 1" wide and at least 12" long (the longer the strip, the bigger the rosette!)

2: Fold in half, right sides out.

3: Tie a knot at the end. This is the bud of your rosette.

*bear with me...I switched fabric halfway through this tutorial!*

4: Roll your folded fabric around the knot/bud a couple times,

and secure with hot glue.

5: Now you can begin folding/twisting. Twist TOWARDS the center. Secure with hot glue after a twist. Do folds/twists about every 1/2"-1" of fabric...otherwise it will be one big twist and lose it's petal-look effect.

6: Continue rolling, folding, twisting, gluing.

6: This is the point where it all looks WONKY and wrong. Keep going!

7: When you reach the end of your rosette rolling, folding, twisting, gluing...leave a short tail.

8: fold the tail down on the back and secure with hot glue.

Should the center of your rosette be sunken in, simply push up the center from the back, and it should pop up just fine.

Make MANY...

MANY more.

RECAP!

Cut a strip of fabric 1" wide and at least 12" long (mine was about 24" long)
Fold in half.
Tie a knot.
Roll fabric flat around the knot a few times, securing with hot glue every couple rolls.
Begin folding the fabric TOWARDS the rosette, securing with hot glue every couple rolls.
Keep rolling, folding, twisting, gluing.
When it looks weird, keep going.
Leave a short tail at the end of the rosette.
Glue the tail onto the back.
If the center is sunken, push it up from the back.
MAKE MORE!

These are great for wreaths, headbands, and other craft/home embellishments.

Hope this helped you in learning how to make these.

I have MAD respect for those who make these for their handmade shops.

They are no simple task. They DO take time, but it gets easier.

Pin It

Thrifted Frame Jewelry Display

2012-02-13T10:13:00.000-05:00

Ever notice the plethora of empty frames in thrift stores?

I always look through them and grab up ones that suit my fancy..problem is they usually sit in storage waiting for something to be done with them...something about me being anti-committal when it comes to actually following through with a project idea/plan

(what if I find a better idea on Pinterest? ahhh!).

Remember how long it took me to complete the mirror-to-chalkboard project? yeeeaaahhh.

Kinda a problem.

There really are TONS of ideas for empty frames.

I love using a big one I found (and spray painted) for my coffee filter wreath.

This little metal, chippy frame I found for $1 about a year ago.

Originally I had planned to make some sort of hair clip holder for the girls, but decided I needed a quick easy way to display my jewelry. Now, this isn't my personal collection, but some shop stuff (some sneak peeks included of new earrings to come!)

All that I did was use a foam core board (found at the dollar store) and cut it down to fit. It fit perfectly and doesn't budge so no glue was required.

But, depending on your frame/foam core, you may need some glue :)

I just fell in love with the little beading detail on this frame!

All nice & organized. VERY easy when doing a quick inventory!

This board is currently half empty, thanks to many of you who have been buying up my jewelry!

hurrah! thank you!!

More to come in the shop, btw.

I have spring colors coming...

and those filigree dangle earrings you see above :)

February Sponsor Lineup!

2012-02-08T13:52:00.002-05:00

I could NOT be more excited about the amazing lineup of sponsors this month.

Incredible bloggers (new & seasoned) and shop owners of all different talents.

I really wanted to featured a bit more on these shops/blogs behind their buttons on the sidebar.

Hope you enjoy "meeting" these great sponsors!

FEATURED SPONSOR:

SHOP | BLOG | FACEBOOK | TWITTER

I simply cannot say enough about {just.lovely.things}.

Shop owner Heather is a sweet, endearing blogger & shop owner who truly has mastered her art.

I love her headbands and own this one myself:

Now lets meet the rest!

BLOG

BLOG | SHOP | FACEBOOK

SHOP | FACEBOOK | WEBSITE

SHOP | FACEBOOK

SHOP | BLOG | FACEBOOK

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK

BLOG | SHOP

SHOP | FACEBOOK

SHOP

Hope you take a moment and stop by these great sponsors!! they're completely worth it!

Itty Bitty Bands {Giveaway}

2012-02-06T15:23:00.002-05:00

I just adore this shop, Itty Bitty Bands almost because just LOOKING through all the photos in the shop gets your heart melting. Oh the sweetness!

Plus, the prices are extraordinary and her items make great photography props and come in all different sizes!

Today Itty Bitty Bands is giving away THIS headband below to one lucky winner!

*must be a follower/subscriber of The Bird's Papaya to enter*a Rafflecopter giveaway

Flat Iron Curls

2012-01-26T13:24:00.002-05:00

Flat iron curls are something that I've been doing for a couple years now.

For me, it's easier than a curling iron, and faster.

That being said, recently I came across a great video tutorial on them over at

The Small Things Blog

(best hair blog ever!)

and Kate's tutorial makes it even EASIER.

Let me give you a *bit* of hair history for my hair.

It's thick, and there's lots of it

(I've had several hair stylists tell me I have hair for triplets)

I'm not a natural blonde *GASP!*

I color it myself, out of a box *DOUBLE GASP!*

My hair does better with styling the day after washing.

I use a cheap $20 flat iron, the kind that has 25 heat levels, and I use level 25...hot hot!

Here is some flat iron curls done in smaller sections, with hairspray.

hairband from Ruffles 'n Such

Flat Iron curls with larger sections, and no hair spray

(falls naturally after an hour to a more everyday look)

If you do it with a center part, it's very Emily Thorne...

via

(who doesn't watch & love Revenge? if you're not watching - start!)

So that's it.

Give it a try.

If you have long hair...it looks awesome too, but the curls don't usually start until about half way down the shaft of your hair. I did it for my best friend, and it turned out great!

The {Posh} Daisy GIVEAWAY!

2012-01-23T20:14:00.000-05:00

Cerisse and I "met" a few months ago. Quite fatefully actually. We both kinda discovered each other's blogs/shops/fb pages at the same time with a mutual adoration for each others work!

So today we're collaborating on a
double giveaway.

I'm doing a giveaway on her blog, and she's doing one on mine!

So FUN!

The {Posh} Daisy is giving you a chance to...

Let's meet the minds behind The {Posh} Daisy!

Hi, we are Cerrisse and Dotti. We are mother and daughter and co-owners of the Posh Daisy were we create fun posh handmade accessoires. We live in Saint George Utah and love the rugged surroundings. Cerrisse married her best-friend and has a darling, busy, bundle of energy, son named Jaxon. Dotti married her high-school sweetheart and has five children and four grandchildren! She also moonlights for a non-profit housing developer when she isn’t creating new accessories. Cerrisse is a homemaker and is the driving force behind the Posh Daisy. Not only do we work together but spend a lot of time laughing! It doesn’t get any better than that.

Also, The {Posh} Daisy is offering a 25% off to you all with the coupon code "daisylove"

To make things easier on you all (and quicker) I've implemented using Rafflecopter for this giveaway.
*Giveaway open to all subscribers/followers of The Bird's Papaya*
Draw for a winner is done at random on Monday January 30th 2012

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Simple Simple Simple {an art tutorial}

2012-01-21T19:49:00.001-05:00

I think I saw this idea on pinterest, and it's been floating in my head ever since.

It was so quick and easy, I was even able to do it with the kids AWAKE *gasp*.

I know it.

Big deal right there.

You'll only need 3 things:

Canvas

Craft Glue (aka school glue)

Acrylic Paint

This shouldn't cost you more than a couple bucks to do.

This is my first one...I bought the canvases in a 2 pk, so we're calling this "practice round" and we'll see what I do next.

First up....sketch out a design with pencil.

Glue over the design with the craft glue.

Let it dry (big tip - don't skip this step...and yes, it will take a while)

Once glue is DRY and CLEAR you can paint over it!

Once the paint dries, you may need to do a 2nd coat as it's prone to crackling over the glue...unless you like the look, then leave it!

And that's it!!

Next time, I think I'll do design only...no words...less chance for mistakes...
but, as they say, there are no mistakes in art.

Hope you'll take a few minutes and try this one out yourself!
Maybe some cute artwork for a kids room perhaps?

New in Shop for 2012!

2012-01-19T21:50:00.000-05:00

I'm excited to say that I've finally updated my shop with new items for 2012.

and I've restocked some favorites too ;)

Now, that being said, I still have another new line coming and some additional charms for The Charmed Necklace line. All excited stuff (at least for me).

I hope you'll take a second and check out what's new.

Go here to see it all.

You all have been so supportive for my shop and I'm so thankful for you!

My best thrifting haul, ever! {and my best personal tips}

2012-01-18T19:57:00.000-05:00

Thrifting is a finicky thing.

You can go into the store, scour it from end to end and come out with nothing.

It can be frustrating and exhausting, so why do it?

For days like today.

I figured this would be a good time of year to go thrift shopping, because after Christmas we all have the urge to purge. Organize life, donate the rest...blah blah blah.

I've also heard that Tuesdays & Wednesdays are the best days to go to a thrift store because people drop off items late in the weekend or on Mondays after doing a weekend purge-fest and the store prices them and sets them out mid-week.

So everything is lining up here for a great trip to the thrift store.

Let me show ya what I got.

(And no, there's no crazy awesome furniture that you'll see me refinish like many many other blogs...I'm going simple thrifting here)

Ruffles? check

Aqua? check

My size? check

Quality brand? check

LOVE them

Now, they were $10.99

*little* steep for a thrift store.

But they are ALDO shoes, which often run for at least $40 and these have clearly never been worn.

And honestly, how could I not?

Next up...

This was so beautiful and completely perfect for spring decorating, so for $2.99 I was SOLD

This next one could be the most ironic/meant-for-me/perfectness around.

It's a birdcage jewelry display.

I know what you're thinking...WHEN am I EVER going to use this?

It's not like a have a jewelry SHOP with the word BIRD in the title.

JEEEEEEZ

*ahem* it was $2.99

squeeeeeeeeal

I love a good wreath hanger. I've looked at ones similar to this for usually around $10-12, this was $1.99!

Another ALDO item..this gorgeous purse for $9.99

(with the hearts that are removable but I'm not quite sure if they are cute or ugly...we're temporarily sticking with cute...thoughts?)

This bag showed NO signs of wear...BUT, I found a plane ticket stub to London, England and a receipt for something expensive inside.

It's like having a piece of something from someone with an exciting jetsetting life. haha.

So the grand total for this haul?

about $30

HOW happy am I?

very very very.

(all money was my birthday money too - stretching that stuff as far as I can!)

So, for my own personal (not expert)

advice on thrifting:

like I mentioned, shop mid-week, mid-day if you can (that way staff has had time to display some items you may be scouting)
Look up HIGH and down LOW. I almost walked right past the bird jewelry display until I stopped, turned around and looked up. It was too tall to be at eye-level!
Remember spray paint fixes a lot. Find a great item but it's the wrong color? spray paint it. Works, often.
Be patient and pay attention. Don't rush through the store expecting the good stuff to catch your eye. It's not a retail store that has matching beautiful displays and catchy methods to get your attention.
Go through the aisles twice. I almost always miss things on the first time through.
If you see an item, but you're not sure and think about coming back...forget about it...it won't be there...and you'll regret it (and no, I'm not saying buy everything...but just don't lose out on a piece with this method).
Browse thrift stores enough just to know value of items. You CAN overpay for a thrift store item. Like a McDonalds happy meal toy for $3. Saw that today too.
Don't plan to go shopping in a regular retail store after thrifting. You'll have sticker shock at regular prices!
When shopping for tops, look in your own size, and a size up...sometimes there's a killer shirt that can easily look great with the magical work of a belt. Trust me. You also will get over the complex of going up a size when you see how big it fits on you pre-belt.
Put things in your cart even if you are just "thinking" about them. There are others shopping too...often with the same taste.
Go in with low expectations. Don't go looking for specifics or with a price in mind. Be open-minded and enjoy yourself. Otherwise, it's NO fun.

Hope you enjoyed my haul for today, and these little tips too.

Don't be afraid to thrift. It's super fun, and really rewarding!

I love you a bushel and a peck {Saltbox House Sign Giveaway}

2012-01-16T11:11:00.003-05:00

*giveaway closed*
winner #17 - Kristin Whittaker!

Back in the fall when I introduced you guys to Saltbox House, you all went nuts entering and the post brought lots of new "pins" to this great shop.

I can't say enough about Saltbox House and the shop owner Jackie, who keeps her handpainted signs at ridiculously low prices without compromising their beauty.

I dare you to find a better priced sign shop of this quality!

Today, Jackie of Saltbox House is going to giveaway one of her most popular signs:

Comes in all different colors...

Here's how you can enter to win...

*Must be a follower/subscriber of The Birds Papaya*

*open to US & Canada*

MANDATORY:

Visit Saltbox House and come back telling me your favorite sign - one entry

EXTRA ENTRIES:

"Like" Saltbox House's Facebook Page - one entry

"Heart" Salbox House Etsy Shop - one entry

"Pin" something from Saltbox House shop into your Pinterest - one entry

(pin buttons are now on all etsy listings)

BE SURE TO LEAVE A SEPARATE COMMENT FOR EACH ENTRY and YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS IF IT'S NOT CONNECTED TO YOUR PROFILE!

Winner will be drawn at random by random.org next Monday night (Jan 23 2012)

A 2011 Lookback...

2012-01-11T21:21:00.001-05:00

I'm back!

Officially rested & refreshed from a 3 week break from the world of blogging, I'm feeling re-inspired and recharged (lots of "re's" going on here...) and I'm excited for 2012.

I feel like we're constantly either stuck in the past or stuck driving forward.

I tend to do the drive forward thing and I have an incredibly awful memory, so taking a pause to look back is healthy and rewarding.

Nothing to be sad about, lots to be thankful for.

So here we go!

In craft/decor projects...here's some of my personal faves from 2011:

There's the Scrabble Tile Pillow...

That reverses to a Diet Coke pillow...

It was my first time doing freezer paper stenciling and I just LOVED it.

Terracotta Pot turned Candy Jar:

We updated our Master Bedroom:

DIY Hurricanes (Which I still use in our house all the time!)

I shared my parent's Family Wall

I made a Beach sign using scrap wood found in the garage:

I put up some wall shutters (I still get giddy over them):

Tutorial for some fabric coasters (also something we still use all the time!):

Chalkboard Pennant Banner

(we write all sorts of stuff on it...we got further than "chalkboard" haha)

I did what I once thought was unthinkable and added roosters to my kitchen

(and LOVE THEM!)

Turned an antique garage sale mirror into a chic chalkboard!

I tried vinyl for the first time as a reverse type stencil on this birch-look Christmas sign.

It turned out great!

Some recipes from 2011...

Sugar Cookies (our most used recipe in our home)

Homemade Granola Bars

Cheesecake Tarts

On the Family Front...2011 was so much fun!!

Jemma turned 3...

Boden turned 1...

Maya turned 5 and we reflected on the village that helped raise her...

We went to DISNEY WORLD (and I still talk about it at least once a day)

I also opened up my SHOP this year.

Something that I completely love doing and evolving.

It's been a GOOD year.

I try not to forget how GOOD life is.

How GOOD God is.

Here we go 2012!

Thank you to all of you who continue to stick around and be a part of The Bird's Papaya, it means more to me than you'll ever know :)

Cupcake Fudge

2011-12-21T10:09:00.000-05:00

When I saw this recipe from Not Just A Housewife for Cake Batter Fudge, I knew I had to make it myself.

I'm calling mine "Cupcake Fudge" because I divided it up into small casserole dishes, just like you'd divide cake batter into cupcakes. Seemed fitting. You're with me right? ;)

These little casserole dishes were the perfect solution for handing these out as hostess gifts or to neighbors.

I found them at Michaels for $1.50 ea.

Also note that I made the recipe for a BIG BATCH and it makes enough for about 4 of these dishes.

If you can't find the casserole dishes, or would like an even more frugal solution, these mini casserole dishes come in a pack of 3 (with a paper lid) for $1 at the dollar store. Decorate the lid with a sharpie marker, and you're good to go!

Read the recipe carefully and really take note of the fact that these need to sit for at least a day to firm up and be ready to serve...so make ahead of time :)
This is a CREAMY fudge.

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL RECIPE!

If you're looking for a more traditional chocolate fudge, check out the recipe I shared last year for FANTASY FUDGE (so yum!)

Pin It

Gummy Kabobs

2011-12-16T19:45:00.000-05:00

When heading to a Christmas Party with several friends/co-ministry workers, I had the sudden urge to have a little take away for all of them along with our Christmas cards.

Cookies seems a little too repetitive & expected to me this year (although that's totally what I did for neighbors)...so while brainstorming ideas Gummy Kabobs were the first thing to come to mind.

Nothing like, fun, colorful and GUMMY to put smiles on faces :)

There's no tutorial here. It's all PRETTY obvious, BUT I will mention to grease your kabobs before skewing gummies on...its the only way.
Another tip...to prevent unwanted kabob stabbings, either snip the sharp end when you're done skewing the gummies, OR top it with a rounded candy (like I did).

A little cello & sisal twine and you're good to go.

I can happy say that I made a dozen of these for just over $1 each.
We made enough for the kiddies & their parents
(so the parents didn't have to sneak a gummy bear off their kids kabobs while they slept - and no, I've never done ANYTHING like that...ahem...)

Even Bo couldn't resist getting his grab on these kabobs!

and actually, see that nice white pot I have them in on the first pic?

yah, he accidentally smashed it to smitherines when trying to grab it...

darn ~~crazy~~ cute kids

Pin It

Shutter Christmas Card Display

2011-12-14T14:32:00.000-05:00

Each year I'm always looking for a new creative way to display Christmas cards.

This year I was so excited to put my wall shutters into action to fulfill this need!

Although I've talked about the wall shutters before, I'll refresh your memories briefly;

The shutters were found at a thrift store, $15 for 2

(check kijij, craigslist, etc...these are out there!)

I simply hung them with 3M photo hangers

(they're like a wall velcro strip that cause no damage and hold up to 11lbs).

All I had to do to make it a card display was some small clothespins to hold the cards up.

I love the look and think I may just continue doing this with printed photos in the new year, and rotate them out seasonally :)

How do you display your cards each Christmas?

Homemade Potato Soup

2011-12-10T17:28:00.000-05:00

With Winter comes soup season!

While I love making homemade soups, but I really only have a couple I make regularly.

So I decided to venture out and try my hand at a Potato Soup.

I loved this recipe and upped the cayenne pepper a bit and it really added an extra kick, which I loved!

Here's the recipe I used below:

(adapted to my liking from allrecipes.com)

Ingredients

1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
5 tablespoons margarine
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 1/2 cups whole milk
3 potatoes, cut into 1/4-inch slices
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 1/2 teaspoons mustard powder
1 pinch ground allspice
3/4 teaspoon celery seed
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (or more to your liking!)
1/4 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder

Optional Ingredients

1/2 cup chopped celery
1/4 cup chopped carrots
2 tablespoons dry white wine

Directions

In a large stock pot, saute onion, (optional : celery, carrots) garlic and parsley in butter until soft but not browned. Sprinkle in flour and cook, stirring for 2 minutes. Add broth slowly, stirring as you add.
Add milk, potatoes, Worcestershire sauce, dry mustard, allspice, celery seed, thyme, seasoning salt, dry (optional: white wine), cayenne pepper and chicken granules. Allow to simmer and thicken, stirring frequently, until the potatoes are cooked through, approximately 25 minutes. During cooking, break up potatoes with the back of a spoon. Serve warm.

While Cooking:

Thick, chunky goodness ready to serve/eat.

And to dispose of any thoughts that I am some sort of well organized chef...

here's what my kitchen looked like while making the soup:

So....yah....that's not embarrassing at all...

JK Vinyl Designs {WINNER}

2011-12-05T19:56:00.001-05:00

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

I know a few of you have been loading up on JK Vinyl Design's shop items for Christmas presents. Myself included.

There is so many great things about this shop, including LOW prices, CUSTOM items, and BUY2GET1FREE deal!

I love this for a little girls room:

how sweet for $10.99 and customized!!

So thankful for JK Vinyl Designs to be giving one vinyl item (up to $19.99 in value) away to one of YOU!

Thank you to all who entered too, to support such a great shop!

Winner is...

#17

Meghann said...

Bought the buy one get one deal for the kids!!!

Congrats Meghann!

(winner selected with honesty by random.org)

Creating Character - Staircases & Doorstops

2011-12-05T11:28:00.000-05:00

My parents house has so much character. Even as a "newer" home.

Funny, as I thought of it all being "too fancy" when I was younger, and now crave that same character in my home.

You know those little wood craft pieces you find at hardware & craft stores?

My parents used them going up the staircase. It's such a minor detail that gives huge overall effect.

Recognize the staircase?

It's from THIS post.

Which happens to be THE most popular post on this here blog.

So when we had a problem in our home from the front door missing the baseboard doorstop, I decided instead of patching it up (again) we would try one of these decorative wood pieces as well!

ahhh...fixed.

Using "Paint" to Visualize your Space

2011-11-29T19:21:00.001-05:00

So my sister Meghann & her family just took possession of an amazing

century home.

But it needs work (some reasons being floor to ceiling wallpaper)
and Meghann has been stressing over paint colors.

They have an entire house to paint, and little time to decide on it all
(they move into the house in a few weeks!).

So doing what I can, from 5 hours away...I doctored up some of her photos that she shared on FB to help her decide.

Using the basic Windows Paint program, I simply drew over the areas in a new color.

Great thing was, once you did it the whole area you could change the color in a *click* with the paint bucket icon.

It got easier & quicker to do each time...and it was fun to play with "paint" colors!

AND...

It actually really did help them!

AFTER:

BEFORE:

AFTER:

BEFORE:

see the floor? all I did was copy & paste that little patch of hardwood over & over again (oh yah girl, I'm tricky!)

AFTER:

(cabinets are staying as is until they are replaced later on):

BEFORE:

Have you ever done this? do you have any tips or secret programs I should know about for doing this?

Leave a comment! I wanna hear from you!

Oh, and they decided on paint colors and are painting RIGHT NOW!

DIY Photo Ornaments {great gift!}

2011-11-29T09:46:00.001-05:00

Taking inspiration from the fabulous Shelley of House of Smiths HERE I was off to make some great little unique photo gifts for the Grandparents & Great Grandparents.

I think another family photo in a frame might be overkill.

So I just loved this idea.

I used plastic ornaments from Michaels.

Two sizes - one a flatter round (which I recommend as the picture sits better inside)

and a full large round one.

I then had some 2x3.5" wallet photos printed at a photo lab and taped them onto some decorative scrapbook paper, rolled it up (photo side out) and placed it inside.

Put the top back on, and tie on a ribbon. DONE!

Costs:
Ornaments $2-2.50 each (50% off sale, Michaels)
Ribbon $1 (Michaels)
Scrapbook Paper 29cents (Hobby Lobby)
Photos 35cents for 4 (photolab.ca)
Sprig of Berries $2 (not shown, they sit behind the photo)

I made 5 bringing my total to about $15 for all 5

Here's hoping the Grandparents love it!

JK Vinyl Designs {giveaway} + HUGE Cyber Monday Deal!

2011-11-28T08:34:00.001-05:00

I love JK VINYL DESIGNS.

She's got some great sayings, wall decor and customized gifts for pretty much as cheap as you can get!

You may remember this project?

Well, I used this vinyl for it:

JK Vinyl Designs is giving away any (one) vinyl

- up to $19.99 in value!

MANDATORY:

-Be a Follower/Subscriber of The Bird's Papaya - one entry

-Go Visit JK Vinyl Designs and pick your favorite vinyl - one entry

EXTRAS:

-"Like" JK Vinyl Designs on FB - one entry

-"Heart" JK Vinyl Designs on Etsy - one entry

*leave one comment for each entry

giveaway winner will be drawn by random.org next Monday Dec 5th 2011

PLUS

...this is a BIG plus...

TODAY ONLY (MONDAY NOV 28th) JK VINYL DESIGNS IS OFFERING

BUY 1 GET 1 FREE

ON ALL VINYL IN HER SHOP,

PLUSSSSSSS 20% OFF WITH COUPON CODE "HOLIDAYS"

WOW!!!!

So, if you do that deal...come back and tell me for another entry :)

Pre-Christmas Advertising Sale ($3/mth+!!)

2011-11-27T13:10:00.001-05:00

As a shop owner myself, I know the importance of getting your shop "out there".

So, as a little pre-Christmas gift, I'm doing a sale on ALL advertising packages that are booked between now & Christmas.

Rates start at $3/month and include an introductory post plus more opportunities to gain expose.

Make Your Own Glittered Ornaments {great gift idea}

2011-11-23T11:31:00.001-05:00

A couple weeks back my next-door neighbor stumbled upon this tutorial and decided we should have a craft night and have a go at these!

I made a different style ornament, which I will show you soon.

But check out my friend's!

All you need are these 4 things:

-Glass ornaments (found at Michaels for approx $8-9 for 6)

-Glitter (dollar store, or the schmancy Martha Stewart ones from Michaels)

-Pledge floor finish (i know, random right?)

-Ribbon for the top!

Simply swish some of the Pledge inside of the glass ornament, then cover the top with saran and shake to make sure it's all covered.

Pour in your glitter, and shake some more!

Pour out any excess glitter.

Add ribbon to the top.

Here's a pic of an example from the tutorial post:

They have a video and everything, so go check it out!

so fun, and easy to do while drinking wine & munching on tapas :)

Christmas Mantle Reveal

2011-11-18T13:06:00.001-05:00

If you've been following me on Facebook you'd know that I was quite frustrated with putting together this Christmas mantle (or mantel, haven't quite figured out the proper spelling yet).

I just couldn't get it to look right.

I'm NO designer, I'm a crafter, but NOT a designer...so this if often a time of rearranging until I like it.

That was, until I finished the painted sign that I showed you here, and all fell into place.

I know everyone likes to theme their Christmas decor.

For me, I just wanted a classic Christmas look, with muted natural Christmas colors. I feel I achieved that, and more importantly,

I didn't buy anything new to do it!

So so happy with how it turned out.
Time to cozy up in front of that fireplace :)

Looking for the post on a specific item seen here?

find the post on the birchwood-effect painted sign HERE

find the post on the pennant banner HERE

find the post on the boxwood accents HERE

find the post on the DIY Hurricanes (seen here filled with ornaments/pinecones) HERE

Friends & Family sign can be found at Saltbox House Etsy shop

Winter Holiday Pennant Banner

2011-11-15T09:04:00.001-05:00

Welcome to part 2 of my Christmas Mantel/Mantle reveal.

So proud of my restraint right now.

First I showed you project #1: Birchwood Effect Christmas Sign

And now for project #2!

("Friends & Family Sign" is from Saltbox House)

This was my FIRST time sewing a pennant banner.
I definitely made some minor mistakes, but all in all, it's as easy at it looks.

First up!
Choose your fabric.
I went with one fabric as my anchor fabric, to which all others would work with,
and then instead of shopping the expensive Christmas fabrics,
I checked out the clearances & more.

This was my "anchor" fabric:

All the fabric for this project (with a good amount of leftovers) was about $7.

The "ties" on the pennant, is double fold bias tape
in a co-ordinating beige.

All I did was:

-Make a paper triangle template

-Cut Triangles out (two for each pennant, to be double sided)

-Sewed the long sides of triangles inside out

-Turned right side out, iron (*may have skipped the ironing, can you tell? haha)

-Place & pin your pennant triangles between the two layers of bias tape, and sew together.

Note: be sure to leave about 9" of bias tape at each end for hanging!

I love that this is wintery, but not Christmas-y so it can stay up after Christmas comes down.

But, I'll tell ya....
it's beginning to look a LOT like Christmas around here...

Turband Inspiration + {Winners}!!

2011-11-14T19:16:00.001-05:00

With all this Turband (turban + headband) talk, I was curious to see where this trend was going.

With a little googling, I found some celebrity & runway inspiration for this look!

Oh, Blair...you have done the headband world a massive favor!!

via

Love it!!

alright...so onto our winners!!

Winner #1: Elizabeth

Winner #2: Kuntrikutie38

Congrats ladies!!

Emailing you now :)

Thanks to all who entered...and if you want to go and shop turbands, go HERE (there's some sales happening too!):

Shop updates + Christmas order deadline!

2011-11-14T11:29:00.001-05:00

SO excited to have actually sat down and make some beautiful new pieces to put in the shop this weekend!

Here's a *peek* at what's new!

Owl Rings

See HERE

Chrysanthemum Necklace in Ivory

See HERE

Chrysanthemum Necklace in Grey

See HERE

Dahlia Earrings in Smoke Blue

See HERE

The Charmed Necklace - Baker

(choose your own rosette color)

See HERE

Doe a Deer Pendant Necklace

See HERE

The Charmed Necklace - Teacher Appreciation

(Choose your own rosette color)

See HERE

Dangle Earrings - Large Icing Rose in Grey

See HERE

Dangle Earrings - Large Icing Rose in Grey

See HERE

Dahlia Earrings in Black

See HERE

BACK IN THE SHOP

(and with more colors too!):

Octopus Necklace

See them HERE

~CHRISTMAS ORDERS~

To leave ample time for your gifts to arrive (remember I'm in Canada) please order by:

USA - Nov 20

CANADA - Nov 30

Although I cannot guarantee their arrival time because packages are sent with standard delivery, I believe this timeline will allow enough time for your gifts to arrive! Typically orders take 10-15 business days and these deadlines allow for an extra 15 business days in case of delays in shipping.

Also note if your order IS a Christmas gift and it will be custom wrapped for you!

Birchwood-look Handpainted Christmas Sign

2011-11-13T13:03:00.001-05:00

While doing some Christmas shopping at JK Vinyl Designs, after buying 2 items, I got 3rd for free (you can too, it's a promo)!

So I chose this as my freebie.

I love vinyl, but I also get sad when you have to remove it (for whatever reason) and you lose the chance to re-use it.

So with the idea from Clarendon Lane to use vinyl as a stencil, I got to work to make this:

First I found an old piece of plywood in the garage (YAY free!) and painted it all over in a cherry red acrylic paint.

Then when dry, applied the vinyl carefully on top.

Then I painted over the letting first in a warm white acrylic paint.

After the whole sign was painted and dry, I removed the vinyl.

Then as a finishing touch, I used Distress Ink (found at Michaels in the Scrapbooking section) on the corners, then in random lines all over to create a Birchwood/Birch Tree/Birch Bark (take your pick) effect.

Pretty much MADLY in love with this sign, and hope to make more....if I can conquer my fear of hardware lumber departments...because I've run out of scraps in the garage :(

This is part 1 of a three parter on my Christmas mantle/mantel.

That's right,

THREE PARTER.

Not because it's all that exciting, but because I have the bad habit of spilling out too many projects in one post. So I'm exercising patience :)

The Turband Shop {review + GIVEAWAY)

2011-11-07T19:44:00.000-05:00

Turban style headbands are becoming increasingly popular.

and I LOVE them.

When I came across The Turband Shop, I knew I had to share with you guys :)

I ordered two Turbands,

so I chose a double twist in Emerald

and a classic twist in Grey

to review & share with you!

The Double Twist is thicker (because of the double twist, that's double layers!) and oh so comfy!

The classic/single twist is a simpler look, BUT can be worn twist side UP

or twist side DOWN

(to look like a classic wide headband)

Here's some more from the shop:

Shop owner Aqilah put into words how her shop all came to be. (I love this!)

"About"

(from The Turband Shop on Etsy)

Turban + Headband = Turband!

I practically forced my dad to teach me how to sew, and the first piece that I got my hands on was a turban. The reason was simple, I love headbands, always have, and I'll never grow tired of them! One of my modes of expression is through fashion and turbands allow me to spice up my outfits. It does wonders to my mood! My turbands take me everywhere, from cool, to classy, to laidback and casual, and I want to share this wonder with everyone

Experimenting with the different knots and turban sizes have been really fun and I promise to come up with more and more styles! Hope you find one suitable for yourself here!

Aqilah is the sweetest girl, and has really fast shipping (she's in Singapore, so that's a long way to come, but mine were here in 10 days!)

Here's how
TWO of you can enter to win ONE turband each!
wahoo!! that just doubled your chances of winning one :)

Mandatory:

Visit The Turband Shop and come back telling me your favorite item - one entry

Be a follower/subscriber of The Bird's Papaya - one entry

Extra Entries:

"heart" The Turband Shop on Etsy - one entry

One comment equals one entry!

Be sure that if your acct isn't connected to your email, you leave your email here so I may contact you if you win!

I'll be announcing the winners next monday, Nov 14th, drawn in honesty by random.org

Silly Mama Quilts {Winner}

2011-11-07T19:35:00.001-05:00

Thank you all for entering this awesome giveaway from my friend

Brooke at Silly Mama Quilts.

Brooke - you rock! thanks for gifting a reader with a $20 gift certificate to your shop!

Without further ado,

~the winner~

True Random Number GeneratorMin: Max:

Result:

6Powered by RANDOM.ORG

Congrats to #6 -

kristin.whittaker!

For those who didn't win, I HIGHLY encourage you to take a peek at Silly Mama Quilts shop and think about buying some of her great, beautiful selection of quilted items all with free shipping!

I also encourage you to check out the Silly Mama Quilts blog to see new one-of-a-kind creations before they hit the shop (because once they're gone, they're gone!) as well as fun giveaways & more!

Another great giveaway coming at you in a few minutes!

I LOVE MONDAY NIGHTS :)

Silly Mama Quilts {Review + Giveaway & Promo Reminder}

2011-11-02T20:28:00.000-04:00

It's a rare opportunity when a blog and a shop come together time and time again, to do fabulous giveaways and promotions to mutually benefit one another and continue the quest to promote handmade shops!

That rare opportunity is one that I cherish between

The Bird's Papaya blog, and Silly Mama Quilts shop.

Brooke (of SMQ) is by far one of the most encouraging, sweet, honest women I have ever had the pleasure to "work" with.

Every time I get my hands on a runner from her, I am blown away.

I am never, even slightly, disappointed.

Brooke has learned her skill, and she uses it well. Her quilted items are remarkable.

When they're on display in my home, I get comments on them all the time!

I was SO excited when my latest runner arrived.

It's called "Countdown to Christmas"

(you can find it HERE)

It's a smaller table runner which I LOVE because it goes so well in so many places.

When I was looking to take pictures for the review...I ended up moving it to so many different spots in my home because I couldn't decide. So here's a collage of photos from me playing with the new runner!

I ADORE IT! It's also reversible, which is awesome.

If you want to win yourself a gift certificate to Silly Mama Quilts,

go HERE and enter the giveaway

happening this week!

Plus, Brooke is offering a 10% discount this week with coupon code

"thebirdspapaya"

and to those who use it, you'll be entered to win 25% off your next purchase!

Oh, and shop with ease...all her items have free shipping!

This is the perfect time to shop for those Moms, friends, Grandmas that are hard to shop for! Get something unique like this!

Silly Mama Quilts {GIVEAWAY + PROMO}

2011-10-31T09:32:00.000-04:00

If you've been following The Bird's Papaya for a while, you would know how much I love the shop Silly Mama Quilts, especially her beautiful table runners

(which I now own 3 of!)

Well, today Brooke of Silly Mama Quilts is giving away a

$20 gift certificate

to her shop.

Since her prices are amazing, this will get you a few things, or discounts of a bigger item!

You can find (in her shop)...

TABLE RUNNERS

(my personal fave, and they are reversible!)

Brown is Bold Tablerunner found HERE

Moroccan Mirage Tablerunner found HERE

Simply Home Tablerunner found HERE

Retro Christmas Tablerunner found HERE

SOME OTHER ITEMS YOU WILL FIND:

Birds of a Feather Mug Rug found HERE

It's a Wrap found HERE

Canvas Star Pocket found HERE

Labeled Photo Album found HERE

Hoo's in the Forest 16x16 Pillow Cover found HERE

oh, and by the way...

ALL ITEMS FROM SILLY MAMA QUILT HAVE FREE SHIPPING!!

(happy dance!)

I felt like clicking "add to cart" the entire time I was making this post!

So not only is Brooke giving away $20 to her shop, she has a COUPON code "thebirdspapaya"

for 10% off until Nov 7th when a winner is drawn.

PLUS, anyone who USES the coupon code will be put in a draw to win

25% off their next purchase!

Here's how you can enter to win the $20 gift certificate:

MANDATORY -

Visit Silly Mama Quilts and come back telling me your favorite item - one entry

Follow/Subscribe The Bird's Papaya - one entry

EXTRA ENTRIES -

Follow Silly Mama Quilts on Facebook - one entry

"Heart" Silly Mama Quilts on Etsy - one entry

Remember to leave a separate comment for each entry

Winner will be drawn with Random.org on Monday, November 7th!

Good luck!

and take advantage of that coupon code and get some Christmas shopping done!

Making Logos/Buttons with Picnik (plus, VOTE for the best!)

2011-10-30T14:02:00.000-04:00

Recently my sister got a new amazing DSLR camera. You remember me sharing the incredible (and hilarious) photos she did for us here right?

Well, soon she will be moving to a new town and hopefully doing some side business in photography.

It's hard though, starting something new.
You need a name, a look, and lots of other things.

So knowing how much a "completed look" really motivates ME
(or at least it has with my blog & etsy shop)
I wanted to encourage my sister by giving her a bit of vision towards doing Photography as a business, not just a hobby.

Meghann is struggling with a TITLE.

Here are the THREE she is leaning towards.

APERTURE

MELT

(for the initials of the members of her little fam)
OR

OWL SNAP

(tell me if you get the joke here...some didn't)

So using Picnik.com, I created these three logos.

Picnik is SO easy to use. This was all done in the basic FREE TO USE package, nothing premium.

All I did was upload a photo (any photo really) and cover it in a big white rectangle (found in "stickers") and continued to add text and "stickers" to create a logo.

If you need a specific size (lets say to make a 125 x 125 button), simply open PAINT on your computer and there should be a white nothing box.

Drag the corners to resize.

When you're doing so, note the bottom right corner has two numbers.

These are your pixel sizes. Drag until it's the correct size.

Then save. Open in Picnik and edit it up!

see it? right there ^ .

it says 124x125, That's the pixel sizes!

So lets bring this to a VOTE!!

Which NAME do you like best?

Which DESIGN do you like best?

Comment below, PLEASE!
love to hear from you :)

For the love of BOXWOOD!

2011-10-27T09:19:00.003-04:00

Latest obsession,

BOXWOOD.

It's been around forever and it's showing no signs of going anywhere,

so it's the perfect thing to be into.

I've struck gold twice now.

This past week when I found these mini faux boxwood wreaths at Dollarama, and in the ball form a few months back (also Dollarama $2 a piece).

This is the mini boxwood wreaths, paired with a candle stick (also from Dollarama).

So that's $3 right there. WIN!

Love the life that a bit of green gives the space.

Here's how I've used the boxwood balls paired with a galvanized vase.

Both from the dollar store, for a $3 total.

Here's some great BOXWOOD inspiration...

Boxwood Hurricane

via

Boxwood Monogrammed Wreath

Boxwood Kissing Ball

Lit Boxwood Garland

Boxwood Cake Stand

Decorating Tips with Clarendon Lane

*sigh* I just love it.

All I Want For Christmas (my wish list from sponsor shops)

2011-10-22T20:53:00.000-04:00

I absolutely adore, without a shadow of a doubt, each and every

sponsor shop on my sidebar.

For many, I'm a customer of theirs and have experienced their products first hand.

I check out their shops often and lately, a "wish list" has been

popping up in my head for Christmas.

So today I'm sharing with you a Christmas Wish List from TBP's sponsors!

Babushka headband from Specifically Random

hello housewife's delight! what a way to look great, when you're roots have grown out, or you're busy cleaning your abode :)

Lenox or Groovy Black Plug in Warmers, Candy Shoppe (clearance warmer),

or Merry Berry from Scentsy Independant Consultant, Meghann

(my sistah!)

Would love the plug ins for my kitchen.

The Holiday ones I love because you can leave them out after Christmas :)

Custom Map Keychain from Crafty Addictions

What a great way to remember a favorite city/vacation/home

Wire Heart Necklace from Lunch Hour Crafts

Adorable! All proceeds from this shop go to help a Refugee Women's Shelter!

Handpainted Wood Sign by Vinyl Vineyard

Need I say more? This was MADE for my house.

Rosette Pendant Necklace (choose your color) by Along For The Ride

Y'all know I'm a sucker for turquoise & rosettes right? well, I am.

I love you to the moon and back by Saltbox House

I would love to hang this above the kid's bedroom doors (as they are side by side). So sweet, and true to heart. Plus, $14? not bad!

We Scream For Ice Cream Utility Bag by Ity-Bity Bags

I love the shape of this pouch. Would be great in the bottom of the stroller for those odds & ends we may need along our journeys.

Enjoy The Journey by JK Vinyl Designs

Remember there's a 10% off coupon code to JK Vinyl use: "thebirdspapaya"

PLUS, there's a BUY 2 GET 1 FREE promo on right now! So great!

Brown is Bold and Beautiful Runner by Silly Mama Quilts

This shop's quilted products are SO gorgeous. This runner is so amazing and I could put it a million places in my home for sure! (FREE SHIPPING in this shop!)

What's top of your wishlist this year? anything handmade!?

I'd love to hear from you some of your favorite handmade shops so I can go check them out!

(even if it's your own!)

Christmas Shopping at the Shop

2011-10-21T20:55:00.004-04:00

So...if you WERE to do any Christmas shopping at The Bird's Papaya on Etsy....

your gift will come looking like this:

Super cute right?

All you need to do is tell me it's Christmas gift in the "messages to seller" section during checkout and I'll make sure it's done! (also specify if the items are for more than one person so you get enough boxes!)

Shopping for a birthday? I can make that happen for you too :)

Btw...

I got these cute guys in the shop this week!

Black, Ivory & Aqua sold in 1 day (that was pretty cool!)

but the cutie Navy Blue is left HERE.

I'm also happy to say...

MORE OCTOPUS COMING SOON!

So pumped that they are being well received!!

Until next time friends :)

DIY Glowing Rapunzel Hair

2011-10-20T13:46:00.001-04:00

Lets face it.

This is the year of Rapunzel.

I think this year for Hallowe'en, every other little girl and her dog wants to be her.

We're BIG Rapunzel fans (See HERE) so it was no surprise when

Maya wanted to be Rapunzel for Hallowe'en.

First big search was for a costume.

We found some in the toddler sizes, and in size 6+ (which Maya needs) the costumes were $50-65. My resourceful Mom found a solution by buying a costume pajama dress (yes pajamas!) for $25. Scroll down and you'll see why this worked out PERFECTLY

(oh, and thanks Mom!).

Wigs were another issue. First off, they have been sold out in many stores and online. Then there's the $20 price tag. Call us crazy, we just aren't willing to put that much into a Hallowe'en costume.

Maya has long hair as it is (she refuses to cut it due to Rapunzel's influence), so I went to the local dollar store and found those fake hair clips similar to this one:

source

and ripped it off the clip, and added it to Maya's ponytail.

Now to make it glow.

source

Enter glowstick necklace!

After making the ponytail, I pushed the glow stick up the ponytailers and then ribbon wrapped her hair to secure it all.

How fun is that?!

Maya was pretty excited...with glowing hair...who wouldn't be?!