Saturday Snippets

Happy Saturday! I definitely woke up with a happier heart today. It's the weekend and I have plans to go pick out fabrics for this quilt I'm planning to make. Instead its raining but I think I'm going to go anyway. Here is the quilt. I have had my eye on it for quite some time and when I found the PDF file for sale online, I decided to make that my September project. Now to pick some gender neutral colors. Only thing that can make it cuter is a snuggly (not to be confused with ugly, Mom) little baby!

Image property of honeybearlane - pattern available here

 

I also just finished booking our flights HOME! October 16th is the lucky day and we have a three night layover in HAWAII. What travel agent booked that - oh wait, I DID!!! A little early two year anniversary celebration/vacation before baby. Two birds. One stone. We are simple like that. 

 



Round Here

For starters, Brandon is gone on a long road trip and I thought about going along but with the heat I just decided I'll tag along in September. Also maybe by then I will have adjusted my wardrobe to have enough outfits that fit instead of Brandon's gym shorts. Stylish, I know.

As of today we are in the 19th week of this roller coaster ride of pregnancy. I must say that with each day I'm loving it more and more. Especially since I've been feeling the baby moving around. Mostly late in the evening (a little night owl like me) or after a big meal.

16w3d/17w5d/18w6d

While that number is slowly counting up, we are also counting down until we COME HOME! I think its around 56 days until the last regular season game, not that I keep track. We already started trying to make some travel arrangements home to save on expenses but since we don't know for sure what day we can leave nothing is final. Sure is exciting talking about it though!

Besides that I've been working on clothing projects for a friend. Which entails borrowing a sewing machine, which is absolutely fine by me. Here are a few of the things I've been making. I thought for sure after five months I would lose some of my skills but I actually think not sewing for that long made me better. I don't want to do it again, just looking at the bright side.

 

 

 

I know it's a bit ridiculous but, the bear was all I had and I needed to check for size. It feels SO good to be making stuff again. Plus I am getting in some good practice before our own little one arrives, especially if it is a she.

 

And that is all that goodness happening around here. Growing a baby and sewing with a little bit of baseball and lot of missing our dog!

 

 



Sew Busy

My writing here has come to an all time slow. For me this used to be a place I would come to document what has been going on in our life, where we are living, and the ups and downs of baseball life. Although we are moving to Japan in the coming months and that will provide plenty of stories to write about, this little spot here has lost its luster.

I used to love blogging and the community that comes with it. I liked being a blogger and taking pictures of everything I cook, paint, sew, or craft but...it's exhausting and I haven't found near as much joy in it as I used to. I find that I get SO caught up in how many followers, page views, etc. I'm not saying it's wrong to do that because I realize that blogging for many is a business and those things are important to succeed. For me,it drives me crazy. It brings out the worst in me and I pretty much hate the blog monster I turn into. This slow down has helped me realize this and I am going to try to focus on only writing when I feel like it. 

Since I've had so much extra time you probably wonder what I've been doing. We have slowly been updating rooms/spaces in our little home, teaching a Sunday school class, Christmas shopping, signing Japanese baseball contracts, and sewing. I have spent SO much time making fun things and this time lots of them are for me.

For so long I was trying to make my sewing successful and profitable and it just wasn't working for me. I'd get frustrated and start to see sewing as a job instead of a hobby. I see other bloggers making it work and I give you so much credit because it isn't easy. So instead of sewing for others, I started sewing for me, things that I needed or wanted that I knew I could make. I've discovered an even deeper love than I had before. I have found several sewing blogs and immersed myself in reading and learning tips and technique. 

My stocking via imagine gnats / Brandon and Tag's still unfinished (oops)

tiny fur vest for bff's baby girl - via See Kate Sew

a little Christmas dress - pattern via Shwin Designs

fancy baby bubble skirt - via handmadebabyclothes

denim dress - via laurendarlings

new favorite dressy sweatshirt - via laurendarlings

Those are some of the projects that I have LOVED working on over the past few weeks. I hope that you are having a stress free holiday season and are able to enjoy time with family and friends.

LD

On Sale Friday & Discount Code

I never intended to offer the aprons I've been sewing for sale. I was making them for purposes of my own. Somewhere along the way, and with the positive feedback from my wonderful Instagram friends, I have decided to make them available for purchase. I take pride in making quality products to share with others. I have worked hard to create an apron that is practical and fashionable. I am delighted with the way the aprons have turned out and I hope that if you decide to purchase an apron you will be too.

Aprons will range between $26-$30 shipping included. They can be the perfect pick me up for yourself this baking season, a great gift for the ladies in your life, or the perfect hostess gift this holiday season.

In addition, I would like to offer a discount code if you help spread the word through Friday. All you have to do is tweet and mention @larnlevy and I will then DM you a discount code. Or you can use Facebook to mention my page or a link to this post and I will send you the discount code.

Thank you all in advance for the awesome support. Feel free to contact me with questions or suggestions you may have. 

Lauren

Anthropologie Inspired

Confession. I've been into Anthropologie twice in my life. I realize walking into their store is like walking in a dream. When it comes to forking over the high dollar though, I'm not your girl. There are occasions when I don't mind to spend a little more but typically if I have the choice, I'll choose the less expensive route so that I can spend a little more on my beloved fabrics. When I moved back south, I left my box of fabric at my parents to get on the next trip. It was either pack the fabric or pack a puppy. No brainer. 

Anyway, I was thrilled (enter real life squeal here) to pick up some fabric earlier this week to start on a project that was inspired from the goodness that is Anthropologie. Have you seen this apron floating around on Pinterest? I have and I fell in love when I first laid my eyes upon it. 

Source: m.anthropologie.com via Samantha on Pinterest

I took matters into my own hand. I created from scratch my very own Anthropologie inspired apron. I used what sewing skills my mom has taught me and what I've taught myself, made a few subtle design changes and an afternoon later I had this.

This describes my little pup so well. He is almost always at my side. I wouldn't have it any other way.

I can't tell you the joy creating brings me. The last two days I have been sitting at my computer doing lessons of real estate continuing education to renew my salesperson license. Ugh, all I want to do is sew and I plan too all weekend!  

LD

Let's Call Chartreuse

Today I am living out my dream of being a nail polish namer. I'm sure that is their title right? I've always wanted that job. So today instead of sitting back wishing, I'm taking the plunge. 

sorda.

Instead of naming nail polish, I'm going to name my cutest newest clutch available at LAURENDARLINGS! 

Let's Call Chartreuse

The first night I finished this little piece of goodness it came to bed with me. As in I wanted it to be the first thing I saw the next morning so it slept on my night stand. Yes, I made room - see previous post.  When that happens which it sometimes does, I know I have got something good going on. 

So let me tell you the features of my newest sassy molassy. 

She is perfectly striped chartreuse cotton lined for extra support. Her rounded bottom allows for a little extra room on the inside and is lined with a matching chartreuse check and a striped pocket to keep  small or more important things secure. The fold over flap is a brown cotton with a tweed look lined with a stabilizer to help hold the bag's adorable shape. For a little bit of flare and depth I added a special pleat. She is finished with a magnetic snap to keep all your essentials safe. With 9" long, 5" tall, and 2" deep you should have plenty of room for the essentials. Basically... it's your new favorite clutch. 

I love this bag for so many reasons but I'll tell you my favorites real quick.

Color - the perfect colors to transition out of this HOT summer into the fall.

Shape - It isn't square and it isn't round. It's unique.

Size - Big enough for what you need without the extra bulk and not too small.

So you want to get your hands on this pretty little thing? I'm going to tell you how.

I am offering a pre-order for this clutch from today until AUGUST 18th at a discounted price of $20 dollars + $4 for shipping.  On the 19th I will still have them available just at their regular price of $24 + S &H. All orders between now and then will NOT ship until after the 18th. I have rearranged and re-planned how I run my shop according to my always changing schedule. You can order your new clutch >>> HERE.

I'm super excited about the new bag and I hope you all love it as well! 

What do you say... Let's Call Chartreuse.

Last Things Thursday - IV

Hey hey! I got to make this short and sweet today. I have lots of work to do. I have a whole new collection coming to laurendarlings. Collection? Really I shouldn't use words like that. I'm working on something new for summer and I'm about to go work my little fingers to the bone to get them ready for you!

The last thing I...

bought - gas, fabric, and the passion tea I'm drinking now.

got excited about - the fabric being on sale. I was seriously praying about this. I needed a sign to know that what I was doing wasn't all just a big idea in my head. This little sign confirmed my decision. 

tweeted - making dreams come true today..what are YOU doing ?!?! No one has yet to respond which I think means everyone is either busy working or at the pool. Not following me on Twitter land yet - now you can @larnlevy - you're welcome.

posted - ways to encourage your spouse. It's not a lecture don't be scared to read it. I thought it was funny, but maybe I'm one of those people who think I'm funny and I'm not.

did for someone else - the nanny called in sick so I played with the kids yesterday afternoon. Barbie even stopped by my IG feed to say hello.

tried new - #shereadstruth an online community to keep other woman accountable for reading the Bible daily. The new plan started today, and I'm really excited about it.

downloaded - Creepin' by Eric Church 

cooked - again I have nothing. My mom has been keeping the refrigerator stocked. Luckily she can duplicate Brandon's Mema's cooking pretty close and whipped up some Rice and Red Junk. Y'all will never get the recipe. So sorry.

gave away - this cute wristlet to @daisygirlproductions. Don't forget to check on Wednesdays over on my Instagram for a giveaway. Usually there are a few a month! Daisy please email me - laurendarlings@gmail.com

want you to do for someone else - compliment an online friend via your favorite social media. I'll go first.Sarah Halstead - thank you for the sweet tweet. I am for sure going to check out your blog when I have time. Your photos are AWESOME and your son is such a cutie!

That's all lovely people. I stayed way longer than I should have, but you're worth it!

LD

New Camera Strap Covers

Hello lads and ladies...I've had some time to catch my breath. 

I'm not really sure how different our lives would be if my family didn't live in Missouri. I've been hanging out here temporarily until Brandon gets back to Memphis and then I'll rejoin him at that point. I'm unbelievably thankful for this.

While the last two weeks have kept me extremely busy they haven't allowed me any sewing time and hardly any blogging time. It was similar to working out after you take a break. I didn't want to but...I did and it made me realize how much I've missed creating fun things.

Especially new fun things which leads me to the new ruffled camera straps available in the shop. These actually came about because one of my friends pretty much forced me into making one for her. I can't really say 'no' when a camera strap shows up in my mailbox. I'm totally kidding and thankful for our friendship because she is probably one of my biggest customers. 

The way I'm selling these adorable camera strap slipcovers is via custom orders. If you want one I'll make it for you and with the colors and fabric patterns of your choosing based on selection available. We will work closely together to pick out what is best for YOU. I will try to have a large variety of colors available. 

In the midst of all our moving and the chaos it sometimes bring, I look forward to having your business. Please feel free to contact me with questions/requests via email - laurendarlings@gmail.com or start shopping here.

Last Things Thursday - Round II

The last thing I...

cooked: tater tot casserole

baked: chocolate chip cookies for my man to take on his road trip

bought: fabric

sewed: newwww headbands

received in the mail: belated bday gifts from my sister - I love Gap Fit and she knows it!


sent in the mail: a birthday package for a special friend

did that was stupid: burnt my finger with the hot glue gun

cried about: surprisingly not the glue gun injury but our roommates moving out (story on that coming soon) & my husband leaving for ten long days.


downloaded: Carrie Underwood's version of How Great Thou Art - 

tweeted/instagramed: #yellow is happy - #shine

did for someone else: I'm working on become a partner shop with The Shine Project.

tried different in my beauty routine: lipstick - NYX matte lipstick in tea rose

used to encourage others: Dr Suess qoute - Oh the places you'll go..

Now go check out some other great last things thursday posts here.

Things I want to MAYke

Welcome May. I don't know what you have in store for us. I spent all day sewing until my back hurt so much from my wonderful 'office' arrangement I couldn't take it any longer. 


Instead I've been mulling around for a couple hours online in awe of the creativity that is in the online universe. I found some really cute projects that I think I'll have to try. 


This quilt is awesome. It reminds me of my sister - maybe in different colors.

Source: vanessachristenson.com via Lauren on Pinterest

Then there is this darling fat quarter dress. I love fat quarters and how you can usually find them in the clearance bin. I think I know someone this would fit. 

Source: u-createcrafts.com via Lauren on Pinterest

Speaking of fat quarters, have you ever heard of a jelly role? No it isn't a donut but that does sound a bit delicious at the moment. They are one of my favorite things, fabric wise. Isn't this awesome? I'll take ten for decoration please.

Source: vanessachristenson.com via Lauren on Pinterest

These jellies are used mostly for quilting. Unfortunately I haven't taken up quilting but I think I could manage to add some ruffles to a cute little tote. 

Source: sewcraftcreate.com via Lauren on Pinterest

Maybe one day I'll just have some jelly roles to decorate my craft room and I'll sit them next to this fun pillow. I don't make pillows now because it's just an extra to move at some point. This also makes me miss my Silhouette that's getting dusty back home. If only I could be adding vinyl, rhinestones, and other fun things with that mack daddy. Sigh.

Source: sewcraftcreate.com via Lauren on Pinterest

And finally something I that I couldn't take my eyes off. A very simple sunburst flower head band. I've been trying the last few days to use accessories to dress up my outfits. Slowly but surely I'm becoming a fan. 

Source: sewcraftcreate.com via Lauren on Pinterest

 quilt / dress / jelly roles / bag / pillow / flower headband

I know this isn't any kind of update with whats been going on but that's just it, not to much has and we are okay with that. Just wanted to share with you some things I might be sewing on and welcome the month of May.




**I know that Pinterest is not a source for photos so I have included links back to the original site I found them. None of the above photos are mine.**

Wild Things

Happy Friday friends. I don't have much for you today just a little something.


It's been since early February since I've been to Hobby Lobby. Earlier this week we made a trip. I wasn't looking for any particular fabric, just seeing if anything caught my eye. That's usually how my fabric shopping trips work. I walk around and wait until I see something that I know I want to use. I get a gut feeling that I can't leave without that fabric or I'll only think about it until I get it.


I kept looking and looking. I kept going back to the animal prints. I've always liked animal prints and even did a few small projects when I first got my machine. I just couldn't figure our what I would do with animal prints when NOTHING I've been sewing lately has been this style.


Then I found two other pieces to match that were even more out of my element. But I went with it and had a slight vision in my head of something that could be awesome. I knew I had to get them.

I don't know how it happened but it turned into this.

And I love it!


The end. 

Vintage Darlings Are Born

Me: I think I'm going to pick up a new pair of some color skinny jeans, they are in right now.

Brandon: Who says?

Me: It's all over right now. It's just in.

Brandon: But why? Who decided that its 'in'?

Me: I don't know I can't explain to you how fashion works. It's just popular right now.

Brandon: Who says that though? Which person decided that and told the whole world?

We go round and round. I can't convince him if it's in or not, and if it is, he will never jump on the bandwagon. He will stick to his greens, blues, grays, browns, and of course Camo for the rest of his life because to him, camo is always in.

I'll admit my closet is not real up and up with what is in as far as fashion goes. I wear what is comfortable to me and what I think is cute, and of course things Brandon likes and sometimes things he doesn't. 

As a tiny shop owner of some clutches and wristlets I try to follow the current trends. Maybe that isn't a good idea and maybe I should make what I like instead. If I did that though, I would probably hoard all my new designs and not be able to share these with everyone else.

It has occurred to me that thrifting and vintage clothing are a hot item right now. Brandon if your reading, don't ask me why or who decided this, it is what it is. The last time I went shopping for fabric all the pieces I picked in some way reminded me of my grandma Norma. She liked to quilt, owned a farm that my siblings and I reminisced about all weekend, and could cook something fierce. 

Today as I was shopping for fabrics, I ooh and awwed over pretty much the entire store. I spent the first fifteen minutes documenting my new-found obsession for fabric. Years ago my mom couldn't drag me into a fabric shop. Anyways, I kept finding myself being drawn to some of the most classic old fashion and some pretty ugly pieces. Don't get me wrong I loved all the new bright color and geometric shapes and patterns but before I knew it I had several bolts of the old fashioned looking stuff in my arms.

And that's how my next little project was born. Tonight I worked on a prototype and brainstormed to see if this was going to work the way I planned in my head all afternoon driving home from shopping. I'm super giddy about it. So much that I knew if I didn't just write out how excited I was, I'd be up all night thinking about it. Now instead I'm up late writing about it. 

I completed my first clutch, that I have to keep for myself because it's to live for cute, (I'd never die for a clutch's cuteness, just saying) Then, we started going through my mom's fabric stash. Some good, some bad, and some just uggggaly. I ended up with this whole stack of fabric perfect for my new vintage line. Love love love.  

Until I can show you more, I'll leave you with a sneak peek. I'm so in love already. I have very high hopes for the new clutches and I hope you will love them. These mean more to me already than any of the other things I've sewn because they have so much meaning behind them. They remind me of my grandma and quite a bit of the fabrics are from my mom. I think know my grandma would be proud of her little quail.