a few more pictures

A few of my close friends have had new babies in the last several weeks and it is so crazy to me to think that Lynlee was ever that small.  I know she was small, but again it's hard to remember her any different than she is now.  But as I looked through old pictures I found the proof.

We posted about this before  because she was growing, but now, see how much bigger?  It might be time for a new hoody-towel soon.

Just took this picture a few nights ago after bath time:

Here she was in the same towel at about 3 months:

Compare that to this picture I took when Lynlee was only 2-3 weeks old...

Remember when Lynlee used to sleep in her swing?  She has definitely grown out of it now :)

Another point of reference:  wearing the same socks in both pictures :)  Don't worry, we got some that fit her a little better :)

Thanksgiving Dinner, J Dawgs Style

Every year JDawgs has a Thanksgiving feast for their employees.  It is amazing.  The food is great, the company is fun and we always have a great time.  One of the best parts?  They always have a desert contest for the employees.  Last year we made this, remember?  And we won first place in the "most creative" category.

This year, we were bound and determined to win not only most creative, but best over all (also includes best taste and sex appeal.)  So, if you can imagine, I was on a mission.

This is what we came up with.  Again, this year was also inspired by "Hello, Cupcake!".

First step, collect and wash lots of small, fresh maple leaves.

Next step, melt chocolate and paint the backs of all the leaves.  Let them harden and carefully peal the leaves off of the chocolate leaves.

Also pictured below:  caramel acorns.  To make these, take the little square caramels and heat 4-5 at a time in the microwave for 8-10 sec to soften.  Then roll into desired shape and dip one end in melted chocolate and roll in chocolate sprinkles.

Next step, make the best tasting chocolate bunt cake possible, frost generously with chocolate, cream cheese frosting.  Insert chocolate leaves all leaning in the same direction and place acorns randomly throughout.  And there you have it!  The most beautiful fall wreath I have ever made (or tasted)!

 

 So in the end, how did it all end up?!  We blew them away and swept all the categories taking first place over all!!  I would be lying if I didn't say that I was totally stoked.

And for our prize, we happily made our way home as the new proud owners of this:

Looks like it's time to make some pazzookies!

Lynlee and the tiger

highchair cover

For my birthday this year, my mom gave me a sewing machine!  I can't even begin to tell you how trilled I am and how many ideas have been running through my head non-stop.

The first project I did was pretty simple, Lynlee's Halloween costume.  Actually, the only thing that I used the machine for was her hat.  It was super easy.

My next project that I just finished today was a lot bigger of an ordeal.  I would be lying if I didn't say that it was a huge challenge, and that there are plenty of spots that are pretty funny looking if you get too close. But I do have to admit that I am pretty proud of myself (and my mother who helped a TON) for figuring it out.

I made a new pad-seat-cover thingy for our recently acquired highchair.  The highchair was a steal on craig'slist, but it came with a gross, mildew-filled pad.  And because it seems to be a pretty old model, I couldn't find replacement pads online, so my natural thought process is, "I can make one!"  I really had no idea how, but knew that I could figure it out somehow.  :)

All in all, I learned a lot about how to use my machine, how I would have done it completely different next time, AND to make cording. :)

So, here is the finished product!

all finished, ready to see if it fits

Whooo!  Perfect fit!  Notice how I got fancy and even have slits for the straps to come through!

Other fancy feature:  this little pocket on the back that secures the seat cover to the chair

I don't think Lynlee will ever be as excited about this as I am right now :)