I haven't felt much like crafting lately- I do have a few things in the works.  I did find a nice online bookstore with free shipping- yes, it's called thriftbooks and I found it via the modern hive.  They have several Mary Ellen Edmunds books for $3.95.
                                                                                                        

My Grandson Turns One

My daughters and I did a little photo shoot of my grandson because he turns one this week- it was really fun and we ended up with some photos we really like- hurrah!

Being a grandma is so sweet- this little one is on the move and doesn't hold still for too much cuddling right now- but it's pretty delightful when he comes by the house and waves and breaks into a huge smile- just for grandma!

Babies are for gently loving and cuddling, for kissing and giggling.  I'm a firm believer that you can't spoil a child with too much love, attention and kindness.  Hugs and kisses just make them sweeter.

                                                   

Crocheted Edge Baby Blanket Number 2

There is a baby boom going on in my family so I've been working on some baby gifts.  Here is another version of my crocheted edge baby blanket.

I think the cute bird flannel was from Hobby Lobby (mmm, maybe Hancocks....)  This is how I made the blanket:

First I put the fabric right sides together and sewed around the blanket- leaving a small opening to turn right side out. 

After turning and slip stitching the opening closed I ironed the blanket and marked small dots every centimeter along the edge of the blanket.  Then using the marks I made I swiped the idea from You Go Girl and did a blanket stitch around the blanket. 

Next I chain stitched around the blanket- putting two stitches between each blanket stitch.  Then I made a very simple scallop by making a slip stitch, three double stitches and then beginning again with a slip stitch.

Would a diagram help?

Flowergirl Dresses

Because we were having a casual outside reception we chose simple  $20 sundresses from Target for the orange flowergirl dresses.  We added a ruffle and a ribbon around the waist and they were ready to wear.  Their flower arrangements were slightly different and that added to the casual look we were going for. 

This picture is a quick snapshot that my daughter took before all the actual posing began- can you imagine trying to catch three little boys smiling all at once- yikes!

                                                                              

Cool Craft Project from the Web

While skimming the net I found this neat craft project at Lil Luna for those of you that love the temple.  She even offers free pictures of various temples that are already antiqued so that you can make your own.  She also has free files without words if you want to turn this into a RS craft.

Here is a picture that I changed to sepia.

You could probably use the pictures from lds.org and antique them yourself if you are using the finished project for personal use....

Shrimp Tacos and Mango Salsa

This post doesn't have anything to do with weddings- but if you like shrimp tacos these are delicious!!!!  I used Holly Clegg's simple recipe, but any basic recipe will do.  Then add this  mango salsa - it's amazing- it's good on tortilla chips as well.  I think I'd use a little less cilantro- but use fresh ingredients and you'll gobble this stuff up- enjoy!

Ready to Share Some Do It Yourself Wedding Ideas

Wow, that was a LONG and exciting five weeks!  I'm home now and ready to share some of my daughter's wedding ideas- I hope they help someone else to have the wedding of their dreams while on a budget!

Our talented photographer was Mindy (my niece) from Bellissima Portraits- there is a link on my sidebar to check out her website and to schedule her to photograph your Utah wedding!

Because we had invited bunches of children to the reception we decided to save money on chair rentals and place some quilts around the yard for the little ones.  This quilt was made from a vintage sheet, washed well, and tied to a white sheet with a small amount of batting.  The children spent so much time playing that I don't think they sat down- but now I have a picnic quilt that I really like!

This flower girl bouquet was made from Hobby Lobby silk flowers at 50% off.  We purchased a small bouquet in the "floral bush" section and changed out some of the flowers and greenery.  The bush was 5$.

I'll post more as I get pictures back-