Cause I'm a rilllly good mom

Avery:
can clearly say both,"pop" and "french fries", and asks for them when we pass by McDonald's which she recognizes by sight,
and can feed herself two sticks of butter at once OR two suckers at once.
We like to change things up.

Shabby Apple Dress Contest

I love dresses.

I would probably wear one everyday if my obnoxiously long torso didn't prevent them from ever fitting me correctly. I am so inspired watching Mad Man, which takes place in the late 50's and early 60's, and what I love is that women wore dresses that were perfectly tailored and detailed, instead of sloppy knits all the time. I truly watch the show just for the wardrobe. I wish we still dressed that way.

Did you hear that Shabby Apple is having a dress design contest? They are. So because I love dresses... I designed my perfect dress, inspired by Mad Man:

The "Betty Draper Dress"


Here is what my dress design for Shabby Apple dresses includes:

A pleated bodice that provides substantial structure to help coax a tummy into a more lovely shape, with pleats that open into a ruffle of sorts which nicely frames a delicate feminine collarbone.

Flattering elbow length sleeves--perfect for any season.

Generous pockets, because I firmly believe that all dresses should have pockets! Don't you?

Lovely hour-glass shape with its gathered skirt easing up on the gathers as it approaches the hips in order to provide just the right amount of fullness becoming on a woman's figure.

Full skirt hits just below the knee, and sports a peek-a-boo of colorful lace at the under-skirt slip lining.

Is made of stretch cotton poplin, so it's cool and breathable, and comfortable.

Its structure is one of form, with seams strategically placed to fit oh so well.

Is simple enough in its detailing to provide ample accessorizing opportunities...like a vintage broach perhaps.




(So... I didn't quite get a zipper put in....its not the easiest thing to do on a half-sized form...use your imagination.)



And even if I don't win, I might make one in several colors for myself anyway.

Wouldn't this color combination be nice for Spring?

Ohh...with these heels:
I only wish I'd had enough time to make a Joan Halloway inspired dress too.

What would your perfect dress look like?

Utah Winter...1984?

(me, ryan, baby vanessa)

and how rad is my coat?

also my friend linked this article on healthcare reform I liked it a lot, because its actually about healthcare reform and not just insurance reform.

Capturing the Everyday

"Caught Red Crayon-did"

"Avery's creative exploits are keeping my magic eraser busy, but I love those little visual reminders that she is here...her own little independent self...part of our family."

I was never really that motivated to learn to take good photos until I had Avery. And although I have a long way to go in the good photography department, what really matters to me is capturing those little everyday moments that make up our life. Its hard for me to let her grow up. I love being a mom. I love our days. I just want life to stay like this forever. But since she can't, I try to at least capture the feeling of this time, with photos of the little faces she makes, or the little messes she makes, or the things we do together. And I don't really care if the photos are great. What matters to me is the memory.

I love having a little glimpse into the everyday lives of other families too. Isn't that why we love blogging? They had a little "capturing the everyday" photo contest over at Bloom. Mine didn't win, but there are so many cute ones to choose from. Click on over and vote for your favorite photo. It's hard to choose!

Put Your Hands Up

What can I say...she likes to shake what her mama gave her.

It all started with this show. (Love this show...which means its going to get canceled for sure.)

And its looking like she will fit in with Vanessa's new in-laws quite well.

Avery...

Says "I Love You" now.

First to Alicia's baby who she had just met, and with a hug and kiss,
then to her music making toy (also with a hug and kiss),
and then
to me.
With a great big hug and sloppy kiss.
I'll take it.

(And then to herself while she kissed the mirror)

Halloween Giveaway

Bloom is having a giveaway! I sure hope I win. If I do...do you want to come to a Halloween party?