Tis Not the Season For Pumpkin

But that doesn't mean I can't enjoy it!  I know, I know, I should be thinking about Easter'y' foods like... I don't know, ham?  Well, I never let a little thing like spring come between me and my pumpkin.  So this weekend I am going to go back to a wonderful recipe I found when I first caught the "blog bug."  Oh my, oh my, pumpkin scones... Oh sorry, I drifted off a bit. 
I made these babies back in 'Pumpkin Season', and they were AMAZING!  It was not an easily accomplished goal I must admit.  Sure the recipe was easy enough, but my quest to find pumpkin was one of legend.  Only to be topped by my search for French's Fried Onions last Easter. Oh SNAP that reminds me... oh well, it looks like this Easter will be without green bean casserole.
Anywho, I finally found a freshly stocked shelf of pumpkin and practically bought it all.  I mean, a girl can't have too much pumpkin. Bread, scones, rolls..... I'm drifting yet again.
Anyway, here is the one mouth watering photo of the scones I have to share.

Enough said, right?  So with that, I don't care what the calendar says!  I have 12 cans of pumpkin, a hefty workload coming to an end, a ton of coffee and a beautiful Sunday morning to enjoy with my Davey approaching.  I will have my scones :) And you should too! Check out BakingAndBooks and join the Pumpkin Crusade!
Until next time,
<3 Jodi Ann!

Adding Pretties.

Yesterday I posted about how I wanted to add some interest to the front of my purse.  Well I did it.  It is a super simple and fun process.  I have been wanting to make these flowers for quite some time, and today turned out to be the perfect day.  I had tons of school work to do, but I didn't feel right going an entire weekend without making anything.  Sigh, I really can't wait to get back to my sewing machine :)
So here was the process:

• First cut out circles from your fabric of choice. Mine were slightly larger than a half dollar.  
• Next fold the circles in half and in half again, take a needle and thread and secure the end to make sure it doesn't come undone.

• Continue this process, adding new circles and securing them.

• After you have enough folds sewn together flatten out the folds.

• Next, attach a button to the center.
• After the button is attached, sew the flower onto your item of choice. You could also put a pin on the back for a removable option :)

•  All finished! I think it is super simple but adds so much visual interest, don't you agree?

 Well that's all for tonight folks.  Until next time stay happy, healthy and safe!
<3 Jodi Ann!

I didn't forget about you.

This week has been a little crazy, with school work and family life I have had little time for creativity.  But not to worry, it doesn't mean that I'm not thinking up some goodies :)  This week I have added probably 10 to 15 new blogs to my "crafty crafty" browser folder.  This is where I put all of the things I've seen and have been inspired by on the internet.  It's kinda like my own must reads.  So tonight I will share with you a few plans and some of my recent favs. 
As for my plans...

• Although I love my new purse, I feel as though it is slightly lacking.  So I would really love to make one of these cute little flowers to add interest.  Infarrantly Creative is quite possibly my favorite blog that I've been reading by the way, so I was soooo excited when she commented on my blog! 
• Again, my new purse deserves a new wallet.  I am going to try to make the same wallet as I did before only this time I want to make one to match.  Yes, I should have thought that out a bit more :0P
• Made By Rae is featuring Spring Top Week on her site.  I am very new to sewing but I have found a pattern that I would love to try out.  Who knows, maybe it will work! 

 What do you think? I really like the featured top on the model.  

• I just found out that there is a Hancock Fabrics here in town.  Do you think the "I just moved here" excuse has a time limit?  I don't know, perhaps I should know this place a bit better after 3 years :)  Anyway, I have never been to a Hancock fabrics before so I'm dying to check it out!  Ahh.. a whole store full of brand new to me pretties!
• Lastly on my list of To-Do's is a little organization.  As anyone with a hobby knows, sometimes supplies tend to sneak up on you.  And with my growing list of hobbies, supplies, school books, and music gear (ok that last one doesn't really belong to me) some sort of action will definitely need to be taken. So in my search I have found some great ideas, boy did I find some, I have settled on a simple cube bookshelf for the time being.  I want to add baskets to add some color and interest.  I really liked this photo I found from HGTV.com. Besides the red of course.  I am not a huge fan of red, I mean I don't HATE red per say. However, it just doesn't fit into my home interior palate.  In fact I have an entire other story on the subject.  Whew, it felt good to get that off of my chest, where was I oh yes, the photo!

 See? It's neat right? I really like the shelf up above as well.  I am still looking for more options because I can never seem to settle when it comes to stuff like this.  Do you have any suggestions, photos or links on organization for sewing materials, paints and books?  If so I would love to hear your ideas! 
Until next time, stay happy, healthy and safe!
<3 Jodi Ann!

I'm never bored with a pencil and paper.

How could I be? The pencil never stops moving, always creating and learning.  I love to draw, I always have.  When I was a child I made my cousin Amy a tiger with my sister's permanent markers.  It's a fond memory of our mothers and a shining example of how I cannot be stifled.  I would draw on walls, and my mom would tell me that my art was beautiful.  One day, at the age of 15, I decided that my room needed sprucing.  I painted a tiger on the wall. ( Have you noticed I love cats?)  After I had finished I was mortified! My mom was surely going to freak!

 Vanilla Rose: 

done in Illustrator for package design

She came home and I immediately confessed. She came in my room and looked at it.  "It's wonderful, and this is your room so it's okay." (I also painted a dragon on my sister's bedroom wall.)  My mom never ceased to amaze me.  She is always so understanding and supportive.  My sister is a musician.  My mom dealt with fully amplified sessions until 1:00 in the morning.  She was and is proud of us.  It is because of her that we weren't afraid to follow our dreams.

 Glade Package design: 

done in Illustrator

I did follow my dream.  I went to school for graphic design.  I worked very hard and enjoyed creating.  After graduation I was clueless as to what to do with the degree.  Don't get me wrong, there are a trillion options for artists, but none brought me joy.  I wanted to make my heart happy.  Art makes my heart happy.  Forcing creativity for the sake of a deadline, however, did not.

 Egret: 

Acrylic on Canvas

So I then decided that art was a part of me and always will be.  I enjoy looking at interior design, package design, fine arts, sculpture, photography, architecture, craftsmanship. You name it, I love it.  However, I couldn't and won't pursue it as a career, because that would be a death to that enjoyment.

 Realism to Abstract: 

Graphite, Acrylic, and Ink on Illustration Board

Over the past year I've used photography as an artistic outlet, but there was a hole, a sadness that only creating could fill.  That is why I started this blog, as a means of motivation to create.  And already, I sleep better, I smile more, and I feel like I am finding "me" again.  That makes my heart happy.

  Avalon Blues, a Tribute to Mississippi John Hurt

Graphite on Cold Press Illustration Board

Until next time my friends, do something that makes YOUR heart happy.

<3 Jodi Ann!

Project Purse

Oh wow, I am so excited right now!  I did it, I actually did it.  I made myself a purse!  Now, I know it is not perfect, but that kinda makes me love it even more.  It was quite an experience.  I followed the directions blindly, I questioned a lot of the instructions but trusted that Simplicity probably had a better idea of how to sew than I did.  I used the Simplicity 2551 pattern B. 

 Pretties to go!

In retrospect, the other patterns offered in this package might have been simpler for my first attempt, but I survived.  Also, I would recommend buying a quilted fabric to save a few steps.  I bought a regular cotton fabric, fusible fleece, as well as a cotton fabric lining.  I spent most of my time fusing and quilting rather than actually sewing.  I think putting the whole thing together would have been simpler as well, because the pieces ended up quite thick after all of the quilting. 

One thing I really liked about this pattern was the cell phone pocket.  I am constantly digging at the bottom of my purse searching for the darned thing.  I never tested during making the purse to see if the cell phone actually fit in the pocket.  I held my breath as I put the phone in and IT WORKED!  Whew am I glad I got a new phone, as the blackberry would have definitely not fit.

See? Perfect!

Along with my quest to learn how to sew, I am also looking for new art that inspires me in my endeavors.   So when I am photographing my projects I keep a look out for a neat macro opportunity.  Today I found one.  This baby is going to be printed for sure. 

What do you think?  I love the colors.  There is just something about this photo that makes my heart happy.  I hope your heart is happy too!  Have a wonderful week my friends.  I am off to consider what I should do next.

Until next time,

<3 Jodi Ann!

A Basket Full Of Pretties...

Is what I said today in excitement when Dave and I were at Joann Fabrics.  All of the spring colors that reflect the warm weather we have been having as though it were a fresh start.  And a fresh start is exactly what I've been needing lately.  You see, I have been so desperately wanting to make this:

Buttercup Purse by: Made by Rae

Isn't it great?  It's a free pattern and just gorgeous! Last week, in between classes, I went to the fabric store and bought the perfect fabric. I was so excited to make this bag. I drooled over it all week while I begrudgingly did my homework.  Last night I made an attempt and sadly failed.  Mostly because I didn't use a heavy enough fabric, I had expected there to be a use for fusible fleece, and there was not. 
So back to today, Dave and I went for coffee, had lunch and were off to look for a new fabric and pattern.  With much deliberation and some great suggestions Dave offered, I found a great new fabric for my fresh attempt. 

 Pretties!

I started the project tonight, and I hope to finish it tomorrow.  Until then, wish me much luck!
I will need it. 
<3 Jodi Ann!

Socks with a smile : )

I am back to school, spring break has come and gone, and I am drowning in school work.  Luckily I have great plans for the weekend! Until then, I will share a past project.  In my first post I mentioned stray sock sewing.  As soon as I saw these little creatures I knew I had to partake.  The great thing about them is they all end up looking so unique!  I made this kitten for my soon to arrive niece.  Let us take a closer look at that sweet face...

Whew, I think I've met my cute quota for the day :)  I highly recommend grabbing a needle, some thread and a few socks and making an adorable companion of your own!  If you have made a sock friend, I would LOVE LOVE LOVE to see, so feel free to share!
Until next time, my friends!
Jodi Ann!

What a great day!

Well, I found a wonderful project to work on this rainy Sunday.  Dave and I got started early this morning, and we made our way to the fabric store.  We had a little lunch and then I got to work cutting and sewing, and Davey started working on his blog.  I'm really enjoying my new sewing machine, it's so exciting to be able to make these great things I read about!
A few days ago I saw the pattern for this:

What is it you ask? Well, it's Dora of course.. oh... WHAT is it :-P

It's a crayon wallet!! Boy this is such a good idea!  I've been seeing these puppies all over my frequent reads and all the women are raving about them.  The say they are perfect for waiting rooms to keep your little one occupied.  I think I would even love to have one. :)
I got the pattern from Sew-Fantastic for $7.00.  It was well written. But I still think all pockets should be titled "Pockets of Doom!"  It is probably a function of my being a novice, I will conquer those pockets.  I will.

I really, really love this little thing. 

So I finished what I set out to do.  I have a beautiful crayon wallet to show for it.  If only I knew a special someone who loved Dora...

Oh wait.. I DO!

Happy Second Birthday Chloe!!

I can't wait to see all of the pretty pictures you'll make!!

<3 Jodi Ann!

I'm Singing!

Oh yes my friends, I got a Simple Singer sewing machine!  I'm in love.  I bought it last night, and I already knew what I wanted to make.  That Darn Kat has a beautiful tutorial on a wallet that fits all of your wallet needs.  Recently, I have stopped using my purse because it becomes a pain to carry.  I wanted something that I could carry my cards and checkbook in and this wallet is perfect!

Well, I have a confession, I don't read directions.  I tried my hand out at the wallet by quickly reviewing the tutorial and it ended in disaster.. I won't even put up a pic (mainly because I didn't take any).  Then, I decided that I could just make one on my own... yep.  So I went to bed not having made myself a beautiful new wallet.

First thing this morning I decided to tackle the tutorial again, and this time I MADE myself actually read it!  Well wouldn't you know? SUCCESS! I made two, simultaneously, one for myself and one for a friend.
I will show you my process, but I highly recommend you use That Darn Kat's tutorial as this is my very first project, plus she is the genius behind this awesome wallet!

Finished wallets

The first step was to cut all of the pieces as follows:

• Fusible fleece 7.75" x 10.75"
• Fusible interfacing 7.75" x 10.75" (I forgot this piece, but I'm still happy with the result)
• Top 8.5" x 11.5"  ( Kat used a pieced top, but I wanted something a bit simpler)
• Lining 8.5" x 11.5"
• Upper pockets 2 pieces 8.5" x 7" each 
• Lower pockets 8.5" x 19"

Next I attached the fusible fleece to the top piece.

After that, I "quilted" it by running it through the machine, keeping the lines one inch apart. 
Next, was the most difficult part of the entire wallet.  The bottom pockets of doom.  Kat explains that you make marks in intervals of .75″, 1.75″, 1.75″, 2.25″, 1.75″, 2.25″, 1.75″ and 2.25″.  She then said to fold and press the pockets.  Well, this was apparently over my head.  So I ended up ignoring the marks all together and then taking my time I used my drivers license to make sure each fold was sized correctly.

The bottom pocket folds.

Pressing the folds.

After I was sure I had the pockets acceptable I proceeded to the next step which was to stitch the folds and stitch a seam right up the middle to separate the slots.

After struggling with that it was time to attach the pockets of doom to the lining fabric, just on the outside edges.

  

You know, I'm starting to like those handy little pockets. :)

Then I stitched the upper pocket fabrics faced together up the length only. After that I turned them right side out.

Then I simply folded the one edge up leaving a half an inch to show the separation of the pockets and stitch up the middle once again to separate the pockets. After that, I attached the upper pockets to the lining fabric, only by stitching the bottom edge.

Now the fun part.  Putting the lining and the top fabric face to face, I pinned and stitched the entire edge of the wallet leaving a hole at the top to pull it right side out.  

 

 

After stitching the hole I added an adorable button as opposed to the snaps that Kat used.

  Isn't it cute!

 All finished!!! Kristin, the red one is for you!! 

Jodi Ann! 

Who Doesn't Love Bakerella??

A few months ago my blog obsession landed me right to the doorstep of Bakerella's page.  I was perusing posts linking from one page to the next when I saw over and over again the cutest little treat.  Cupcake pops! Ok, truly, how adorable?  It seems like everyone who is anyone had tried these little babies out.  So I decided to give it a try.
I don't have photos of the whole process, but, I did manage to get some shots of the finished product before they were eaten all up!
Here is Bakerella's Recipe
And here are photos of my adventure:

mmm.. aren't they beautiful.  Now I must admit, these were just a bit too sweet for my taste.  Don't get me wrong everyone else loved them!  I'm just weird I suppose.  So when my sister and I were discussing her baby shower I knew these would be the perfect favors.  However,  we had just one day to make them, as we were both driving in from different states. We needed 160 or so and we were also making and decorating 96 cupcakes!  So I thought long and hard and decided that forming them into a cupcake shape would be impossible.  Plus my sister doesn't like things too sweet either.  So brownie balls seemed like the only alternative.  I'm sure this isn't an original idea, but we kinda just winged it.  We baked regular ol' brownie from a box mix, and took it out just a few minutes early so they would be soft.   They rolled beautifully without the addition of frosting (which cut down on the sweet).  We dipped them in milk chocolate and drizzled them with white chocolate dyed to match her color theme.  We put them in little cellophane baggies, my mom had bought these adorable little charms to attach to the ribbon.  They were DELICIOUS!! The guests loved them. And as for the cupcakes, my sister decided to sit little cupcake boxes at each table so the guests could take them home as well!
Here are the pics:

Well, I am off.  It is time to decide whether or not a huge project should be started just 3 days before spring break is over.  Hmm.. we shall see :-)
Until next time,
Jodi Ann!

This Adventure Begins With the First Step.

Oh hi,
My name is Jodi Ann.  I live in Indiana with my fiance Dave and our 3 cats; K.C., Pipa, and Jackson.  We moved here 3 years ago (has it really been that long??) from Pennsylvania, by way of Louisiana and Pennsylvania again.  I have a graphic design degree and am currently working on a Communication Sciences and Disorders degree.  But, that is not what this is about.
I started this blog because I am OBSESSED with blogs! Baking Blogs, Craft Blogs, Sewing Blogs (even though I don't even own a sewing machine).  You see, everything these wonderfully talented bloggers create gives me a wonderful energy and the desire to make something... ANYTHING!  I like to bake, sew(ish), paint, photograph and storm chase.  This blog is meant to chronicle my journey through projects that I just know will work out... right?
Some projects on my to do list include:

• Refinishing and Refabulizing our old dressers and mirror
• Making a quilt
• Baking and making wonderful goodies
• Sewing sock creatures
• And many more wonderful crafty fun things!

Thanks for reading thus far :-)
Jodi Ann!

Photos:
K.C., Pipa, Jackson
Dave and Me